Episode 1: The Salvaged Job

Oct 5, 2016 7:26 am
You awaken to the sound of nautical bells, heralding the departure of fishing vessels for the open sea. The sun is not yet out, but there is a lightened sky to indicate early morning; dawn will break in a short while. You can hear activity downstairs as the kitchen sounds like it is in full effect.

In the common room, Rhiann waits alone.
Oct 5, 2016 9:19 am
Maenor comes down the stairs and beams at Rhiann, eager to start his adventure. He has everything carefully packed in his backpack, and his mace hanging from his belt.
Oct 5, 2016 1:28 pm
Geno looks as though he has slept very little, but whether that is due to nervousness or being used to comfier beds is hard to say. He wears his gear awkwardly, despite the comparatively small amount he has. A short sword is sheathed by his side, as is a smaller item which he treats with great care.
Oct 5, 2016 8:33 pm
Coda awakes with a large stretch, not wanting to leave bed but knowing he has to, he reluctantly climbs out and makes his way to the chest to gather his belongings. Coda walks down the stairs with a jaunty stride and a smile stretched across is face. Coda does a little bow upon seeing Rhiann and waits with her.
Oct 5, 2016 8:52 pm
Kalis lays in bed for a little while after he wakes and lights a candle, reading a book until the sun comes out. Once it's risen, he makes his way down the stairs, "Good morning," he says cheerfully.
Oct 6, 2016 10:44 pm
Daniel descends the stairs sweeping his cane in front of him, humming a song under his breath. A satchel can be seen under his cloak, but he does not seem to be carrying anything else with him.
Oct 7, 2016 6:15 pm
Rhiann gives each of you a nod. When Kalis finally descends the stairs, she says dryly, "Glad you decided to join us, even though I had asked to see you before sun-up." She shrugs, dismissing the situation as unimportant to address in further detail, and instead holds a large sack out to the human sorcerer. Inside the sack is a months' worth of dry rations, a few small metal tins, and a tiny pouch.

"There is a general store across the intersection," Rhiann says. "Daresouk Orecloak is the proprietor and likes to open early, so whatever else you might need can be found there. I do suggest heading straight for the docks afterward; Captain Udutai has little patience."
Oct 7, 2016 6:55 pm
"My apologies, I got caught up in my reading and lost track of time," Kalis says, embarrassed. He takes the sack of goods and nods his thanks, "We will head out presently."
Oct 7, 2016 9:20 pm
"I would like to stop at the general store, if it is okay with the rest of you." Coda says to the group before turning back to Rhiann "Rhiann, thank you for your hospitality and generosity." Coda extends his arms, offering a hug.
Oct 7, 2016 10:48 pm
Rhiann waves Coda away. "Be well and don't die," is all she says before she heads to the door to unlock it.
Oct 7, 2016 11:52 pm
"It was worth a shot." Coda says with a shrug. As he walks along side Rhiann, he thanks her for the concerns. Before exiting the tavern, Coda turns to Rhiann "Seeing as we're pressed for time, if it isn't a bother for you, could you give my goodbyes and thanks to Morena and her sister for me? I'd greatly appreciate it if you could but won't bear ill will if you don't. Either way good bye, good bye." Coda does a slight bow and starts making his way to the general store.
Oct 7, 2016 11:56 pm
Rhiann simply nods.
Oct 11, 2016 6:37 pm
The general store is a simple two-story building of stone with shuttered windows and a slate roof, and sits across the four-way intersection from the tavern. A sign made of pressed planks banded with iron hangs above the single front door, with the words The Ugly Giant carved and burned into it. The door itself is propped open with a small wooden wedge, flanked by several closed barrels and crates.

Inside is a single spacious room interrupted by posts supporting the floor above. The walls feature shelves and crates stocked with a variety of dry goods, while low tables in the middle of the room contain boxes of smaller items. In one corner is an L-shaped desk laden with equipment and supplies, matching the overstocked shelves and cabinets behind. A flight of stairs rises up to the second floor.

Behind the desk is an aged dwarf, tinkering with a lantern. His beard and moustache are capped by brass ornaments, while an acrid cigar fills the air with a heady smoke. Shirtless, the dwarf has a pair of suspenders holding up short leather pants tucked into heavy boots.
OOC:
This store has almost everything listed in the Adventuring Gear section of the PHB. No weapons.
Oct 11, 2016 6:56 pm
Coda waves at him, with a smile "Good morning, Mr. Orecloak, how goes it? I'm in need of a bit of supplies before my trip, hopefully you can supply them. I need a backpack, a couple pouchs, some sling bullets, and if you have any, I want some dice sets."
Oct 11, 2016 7:30 pm
Daresouk studies Coda with his one good eye, then points to the far wall. Several bags and containers of various size rest upon the shelves. "Dice're over there," he says, pointing to a set of shelves near his desk, holding a variety of small toys and like objects. "I don't got bullets." The dwarf takes a long draw on his cigar and waits at the counter for Coda to bring whatever is selected for a final tally.
Oct 12, 2016 1:13 am
Coda nods with a grin, heads over to the far wall and picks out a backpack and four pouches. Then makes his way over to the toy shelves, grabs two dice sets and throws them in one of the pouches. Coda places all the items on the desk in front of Daresouk "Okay, I got a backpack, four pouches, and two dice sets." Coda points to the pouch with the dice. "Would you know where I could get some sling bullets?"
OOC:
Just to be sure, I'm looking for sling ammo (which in the PHB are labeled as sling bullets), I'm not looking for actual bullets.
Oct 12, 2016 2:55 am
Geno silently peruses the shelves, coughing slightly at the overwhelming odor of the dwarf's cigar. He pokes at a few of the more expensive vials, then looks at his coin purse with a mixture of disappointment and exasperation. Eventually he carries a small compliment of goods: a bedroll, a change of clothes, a waterskin, a blanket, and a tinderbox.

He reluctantly hands the coinage to Daresouk and neatly packs his goods into his backpack.
OOC:
Which I believe comes to 2 GP and 7 SP
Oct 12, 2016 5:25 am
The dwarf pockets Geno's coins as he addresses Coda with puffs of cigar smoke, "The Reading Blade, South Gate." Coda's total comes to 4 gold and 2 silver pieces.
Oct 12, 2016 5:42 am
Coda scratches his beard "Does that happen to be on the way to the ship yard?" he asks, pulling out his pouch "How much do I owe ya'?"
OOC:
If you don't want to add the total should be 4 gp 2 sp, if you're going off phb. prices.
Oct 12, 2016 5:50 am
Daresouk scowls after running the total. "Maybe if you went the other way around the world, yeah. Otherwise, no. Dock's down the hill, South Gate's across the way."
Oct 12, 2016 6:05 am
"Ah, shame it is that far, thanks anyway." Coda pulls 3 gold out from his pouch, places it on the counter and looks at Daresouk "I don't really feel like dealing with change. I'll sell you this chest, mind you only the chest not its contents, for the one gold and two silver I owe. How does that sound? I'm practically paying you to take it at that price." Coda lets out a chuckle.
OOC:
Sorry, I totally forgot about the map.
Oct 12, 2016 6:19 am
Daresouk squints at the halfling, then pushes the lantern aside to clear some room on the counter. "Let me see it," he says.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Oct 12, 2016 6:41 am
"Sure thing," Coda grunts as he hefts the chest onto the counter "it is hardly used, only used it to hold my miscellaneous."

The chest is pink mahogany with gold trimming. A slight lavender and vanilla scent emanates from within from the perfume and soap stored there.
OOC:
Edit: If that is allowed, otherwise it is just a standard chest that smells slightly like lavender and vanilla.
Last edited October 12, 2016 6:58 am
Oct 12, 2016 9:32 am
Maenor looks through the assorted goods for a set of sturdy traveling clothes.
Oct 12, 2016 1:13 pm
HypCo says:
"Sure thing," Coda grunts as he hefts the chest onto the counter "it is hardly used, only used it to hold my miscellaneous."

The chest is pink mahogany with gold trimming. A slight lavender and vanilla scent emanates from within from the perfume and soap stored there.
OOC:
Edit: If that is allowed, otherwise it is just a standard chest that smells slightly like lavender and vanilla.
Geno looks up from his money.

"That's a fascinating piece. Where did you come by it?"
Oct 12, 2016 3:58 pm
Daresouk grunts at Coda, gesturing for the halfling to remove the items from within the chest.

Maenor finds a reasonably well-stitched long-sleeved shirt and a faded leather waistcoat. There is one pair of pants of the right length, but its waist seems a size too large for the elf.
Oct 12, 2016 8:04 pm
Coda nods and puts the three gold on the counter and slides it towards Daresouk, then starts moving everything in the chest to the backpack.
While moving items, he looks over to Geno and smiles "My father made it, we is or was a wood worker, not sure what he is doing nowadays. If we are ever in the area and have some time, we'll have to stop by and I'll introduce you. If he is still crafting, perhaps he'll make you one."
Oct 12, 2016 8:40 pm
Daresouk begins to inspect the chest. He checks the hinges, the exterior, the underside, and even feels the interior. He rubs a thumb against the surfaces and even goes so far as to sniff the metal ornaments.

Finally, he shrugs. "Right enough," says the dwarf, taking the 3 gold pieces and then putting the chest under the counter. "Yer trim's fake, just so you know."
Oct 12, 2016 8:53 pm
Maenor patiently waits his turn to pay for the clothes. He's a deft hand with needle and thread and is quite used to having to take things in.
Oct 12, 2016 9:06 pm
OOC:
It'll be 5 silver for a set of common clothes, 2 gold for traveler's clothes, assuming either of those are what Maenor was interested in.
Oct 12, 2016 9:30 pm
Coda gives a hearty laugh "Of course it is, it was made by my father, haha." Seeing Maenor waiting behind him, Coda moves to the side, gesturing to Maenor that he's finished, and finishes setting everything in his backpack.
Oct 12, 2016 9:42 pm
Maenor hands over two gold for traveling clothes.
Oct 12, 2016 11:05 pm
OOC:
Anyone else shopping at the general store? What will the party do afterward?
Oct 12, 2016 11:07 pm
Kalis merely browses the store, but doesn't make any purchases. When everyone is done with their shopping, he suggests that they hurry down to the docks.
Oct 12, 2016 11:13 pm
Coda nods, "Thank you, Mr. Orecloak." he says with a smile, as he hoists his new backpack over his shoulder and makes his way to the door, for a small head start to the docks.
Oct 13, 2016 4:53 pm
The street to the docks runs past several homes before it switches back upon itself down to the harbor. There, merchant buildings and stalls dominate the road, pressed together to take advantage of any available space. Already a crowd of locals have gathered to browse the daily catch from fishmongers and local produce from grocers, while other vendors cater trinkets and sundries.

As you walk through the market, you see a pair of leather-clad individuals in matching uniforms, each armed with a shortsword and bearing the insignia of a winged talon; the mark of the Eglar Eagles, the local guard. This pair, a human man and woman, stand at a T-intersection keeping an eye on the crowd. You walk across their gaze, but the guards make no move to stop you, nor do they seem that interested in your passing.

You find yourselves at the harbor. The commercial section of the docks sees the most activity at this hour as cargo ships unload a variety of goods, and a steady procession of porters on foot or in wagons and carts haul these materials to warehouses or other destinations. A hubbub of calls between hoist-and-winch operators and longshoremen on deck combine with captains' orders to their crews to create a hectic miasma of noise.

Standing out amidst this chaos, positioned centrally before the warehouses, is a raised platform upon a stone base. There is a table behind a low wooden banister covered by a canvas awning, and behind it are three individuals that seem unfazed by the din surrounding them. Two are clad in chain mail and closed-face helmets, and armed with crossbows and long blades. This pair flank a seated dark-robed individual with an elongated reptilian snout colored as white as the ocean froth visible from beneath the raised cowl.

A large tapestry hangs against the front face of the stone, colored a bright crimson edged in black. In the middle of this tapestry is a circle of inwardly-facing sharp teeth, with elongated maxillary and mandibular canines. This image, reminiscent of a dragon's open maw, is the royal crest of Caer Tan.

Deducing that a chartered vessel would not be amongst the commercial ships, you head in the opposite direction where smaller, yet longer docks hold several boats of varied size and make. There isn't much of a crowd here, and the few individuals you do see appear to come and go from a small shanty nearby. A sign above the door reads in Common, "Harbormaster."
Oct 14, 2016 2:44 am
Stepping up to the door, Coda places his hand on it and turns to the party "Well, we might be a bit late and as Rhiann said the man has little patience, so prepare for the possibility of harsh words directed towards the lot of us." While still addressing the party as a whole, he looks at Kalis and Geno in particular and smiles "I've noticed that some of you don't fair well under chastising, so if it comes to that, I will try to take the brunt of it." Coda turns back to the door, pushes it open and enters calmly.
Last edited October 14, 2016 4:15 am
Oct 14, 2016 6:31 pm
This small shanty is a single room of simple decor. A large table dominates the center while cabinets and shelves line the walls behind it. The walls near the front door where you entered are bare except for a few notices regarding an increase in dock fees and upcoming scheduled maintenance.

Seated at the table is an overweight middle-aged, balding human wearing roughworn clothes. Before him are several ledgers, all closed, while he rests his hands upon the table with fingers interlaced. Inkwells and quills are organized neatly to one side, while a sheaf of parchment and other papers are piled opposite.

"Yes?" he asks, in a voice that sounds as tired as his current expression.
Oct 14, 2016 7:45 pm
Coda walks up to the table "I agree, it is far too early to function but the world waits for no one, so hopefully you can help us out. We are scheduled to leave on a ship named 'The Fortune Star'. Do you know where it berths?"
Oct 14, 2016 8:43 pm
The man opens the top ledger to where a satin ribbon has bookmarked the last page. He runs a finger down the list of scribbles and then reads in a monotone, "Hm... Fortune Star... Chartered to take passengers."

He turns and thumbs through the pile of papers before pulling out a document. "Name, gender, and race." The paper is rotated to face Coda and slid across the table. The top of the paper reads Passenger Manifest. Below that is the line The Fortune Star, sailing from port of Eglar City, Eglar, arriving at Jyehm Cay The Tower of the Fallen. A large blank space follows.
Oct 14, 2016 9:56 pm
"Name, gender, and race, I'm not familiar with ship protocol, what is this for?" Coda looks over the paper and looks back up "Everything seems to be correct."* Coda grabs a quill from the table, dips it in some ink and starts to write his name, unnecessarily fancy and painstakingly slow to make sure it's perfect.
Last edited October 14, 2016 10:38 pm
Oct 14, 2016 10:33 pm
OOC:
You know, that's my bad. I've corrected the Passenger Manifest with the destination of Tower of the Fallen.
Oct 14, 2016 10:36 pm
The man does not say anything, instead irritatingly pointing his finger at the words Passenger Manifest.
Oct 14, 2016 11:06 pm
With a nod and a chuckle "Ah my bad, my brain must be still be half asleep." Coda finishes writing his name and begins on his gender and race, as fancily and slowly as his name. "So, can you tell us anything about our captain?"
Oct 14, 2016 11:23 pm
"Captain of The Fortune Star," the man says plainly, irritation slipping into his voice.
Oct 14, 2016 11:50 pm
"Ah, I never would of guessed that." Coda finishes writing his gender and race. "Do you want everyone to sign it personally or can I fill it out for them?"
Oct 14, 2016 11:54 pm
The man gestures with his hand and turns his head in such a way as to convey the fact that he doesn't care, so long as the manifest is filled out.
Oct 15, 2016 12:36 am
Coda offers the quill, filling out for those who decline, less fancy and more quickly this time around though. He also adds a heart at the bottom of the page, in hopes to cheer the man up.
Oct 15, 2016 12:39 am
OOC:
For reference, what name(s) did you and/or everyone else write? I figured I should ask since it wasn't explicitly mentioned.
Oct 15, 2016 1:22 am
Daniel provides his name, asking Coda to write it for him given his lack of sight.
Oct 15, 2016 1:52 am
Coda closes his eyes and writes Daniels name.
Oct 15, 2016 2:06 am
OOC:
Coda, make a Dexterity check, please.
Oct 15, 2016 2:07 am
OOC:
Gladly.
Edit: Jesus...
Last edited October 15, 2016 2:08 am

Rolls

Kindergarten check. - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Oct 15, 2016 2:13 am
You all observe Coda enter Daniel's name with flawless penmanship, evenly spaced letters, and on a straight line despite having no visual reference.
Oct 15, 2016 3:06 am
Geno admires Coda's penmanship and is fine with not using his own signature.

"Your writing is very impressive. Glad to have a diplomat among us."
Oct 15, 2016 4:25 am
Coda opens his eyes and with a mixture of pride, disappointment, and shock that his writing came out so flawless he lets out a confused 'huh'. Coda finishes writing Daniel's gender and race then moves onto Geno's information. With a slight chuckle "Thank you Geno, I wouldn't call myself a diplomat in any sense though. Although, I should stop wasting our time writing perfectly and just get it done, so for the sake of saving time the rest won't be as pretty." Coda continues on writing the rest of the group, stopping a few seconds in between in case that person wants to write their own.
OOC:
I'd like to think Coda's 'not pretty' writing is someones above average writing, like when you tell someone they have really nice handwriting and they just say something like 'oh no that's my chicken scratch'. It's up to you though.
Oct 15, 2016 1:07 pm
Kalis nods to Coda, giving permission for him to sign.
Last edited October 15, 2016 2:15 pm
Oct 17, 2016 11:56 am
"It's just that all the diplomats I've known have had excellent handwriting..." Geno utters before stammering off awkwardly.

"Um. Regardless, good... good skills... to have there." Geno looks around briefly for something to speak about, and ends up turning towards the harbormaster.

"I see that The Fortune Star was originally heading toward Jheym Cay. We were searching for passage to the Tower, but I imagine the any passengers seeking out Jheym Cay were rather disappointed. Do you know the reason for the switch, if you don't mind me asking?"
Last edited October 17, 2016 12:02 pm
Oct 17, 2016 4:33 pm
The man looks up with a clear expression that he does mind, yet he answers, "No."

He turns to Coda and asks, "Are you done?"
Oct 17, 2016 8:57 pm
"Let's see one, two, three, four, five. One more and..." Coda quickly scribbles the last name down "done. Here you go." Coda slides the paper to the man, watching his expression to see if he notices the heart.
Oct 18, 2016 12:21 am
The man takes a stamp and inks it briefly. Without looking over the names, he slams the stamp onto the document and places the paper in another pile. "Pier 5, Berth 8," he says, as he takes another quill and scribbles a few notes on the faded imprint of the stamp.
Oct 18, 2016 1:10 am
"Aren't you going to..." Coda, knowing they are in a hurry, lets out a sigh "never mind, thank you." He turns to the door "You heard the man Pier 5, Berth 8." and begins a jovial march out the door, to Pier 5, Berth 8, with his finger pointing up "Prepare to set sail, with some gusto in your step as we are probably late. The captain is not going to be happy to...see us." Coda lowers his hand to his mouth to try and contain his laughter but it doesn't have much effect.
Oct 18, 2016 8:47 am
Maenor smiles and happily follows after.
Oct 18, 2016 4:48 pm
Geno steps quietly after Coda, slightly more worried about the ship's change in destination than is probably warranted.
Oct 19, 2016 7:16 pm
The way to the pier is clearly marked and you are able to find the appropriate dock easily enough. There is only one ship moored at Pier 5, presumably the Fortune Star, and you can see the crew milling about on deck. The vessel spans a little over 100 feet in length with 3 masts and raised weather decks fore and aft. A single gangplank waits, spanning the gap between the pier and the Fortune Star.
Oct 19, 2016 11:48 pm
Kalis approaches the gangplank, and much as he has heard it done in stories, shouts, "Permission to board?"
Oct 20, 2016 2:48 am
Several heads pop up over the railing, an assortment of salted leathery faces of varying race. Judging from a brief glance, you determine there are half-orcs and elves mixed in with human sailors. Most wear faded tunics and trousers, a few have vests, and all seem adorned with some tiny piece of simple jewelry.

"Gran-TED!" bellows a clear baritone voice from aft. Standing at the rail is a tall elf of walnut skin, oak hair, and mahogany eyes. He wears a red bandanna across the front of his head, tucked behind ears laden with golden rings. An open-necked tunic and vest with a crimson frock coat makes this elf stand out from the others, and as he descends the stairs from the weather deck you can see a gold-hilted rapier at his waist.
Oct 20, 2016 8:50 am
Maenor grins in delight and makes his way up the plank, then waits at the top for his companions.
Oct 20, 2016 9:15 am
Coda walks up the plank with Maenor, matching his grin, and admires the finely dressed elf.
Oct 20, 2016 1:08 pm
Kalis crosses as well and holds his hand out to shake, "You must be the captain?"
Oct 20, 2016 2:02 pm
Daniel makes his way up the plank, tapping his cane in front of him though he does nearly trip over the edge at least once.
Oct 20, 2016 4:02 pm
Geno walks up the plank with his eyes on the elf's lovely rapier.

"A fine weapon, sir. I hope you have little occasion to use it on our trip."
Oct 20, 2016 4:39 pm
The elf nods a wordless thanks to Geno, and clasps the hand of Kalis before speaking to the sorcerer, "Captain Udutai, at your service." His smile reveals stained teeth, not quite perfect, but complete and straight enough to offer a slender and refined jaw. "I take it you and your companions are the charter, yes? Wonderful. Let us secure your parcels and set sail while the tide is right!"

Without waiting for a reply, Udutai turns and yells, "All hands to weigh anchor!" The ship bursts into activity as each person runs to their station and begins preparations to depart Eglar. After observing the crew for a bit, Udutai turns back to Kalis and says, "Allow me to show you to your quarters." With a sweep of his hand, he gestures to the door leading to the second deck.

You descend away from the bustle topside as Udutai leads the way past a common room to a short recessed area fronting three doors. The captain opens the middle door and steps into a single small room at the foredeck. Bereft of any furniture, there is enough space to accommodate 4 hammocks. "Apologies for the lack of accoutrements," says Udutai.
Oct 20, 2016 5:07 pm
"This is more than acceptable, Captain. Thank you for your accommodation. Please let us know when we can help out on the ship."
Oct 20, 2016 11:49 pm
Udutai points to the two doors flanking the main. "Heads," he explains. "I'll let you settle in. The main room back there is where the crew sleeps at night, so I humbly request you not bother them during those hours. Otherwise, during the day you're free to roam there or topside, but try to stay out of the crew's way. If you're looking for food, well we ain't got much but what the sea provides. Enjoy your trip."

He begins to walk away.
Oct 21, 2016 12:17 am
Coda smiles "Thank you, Captain." and waves to him as he is walking away. He turns back to face the room and laughs a little "It seems we are going to get antiquated to each other very closely during this voyage."
OOC:
It is a little unclear to me, are the hammocks already here or just the space for four?
Oct 21, 2016 12:20 am
OOC:
Space for four hammocks!
Oct 21, 2016 1:28 am
Geno spreads out his bedroll, looking confused.

"I guess this is what we're supposed to do? I'm not very familiar with sea travel..."
Oct 21, 2016 8:49 am
Just before the man leaves Maenor asks, "Captain? Might we borrow some hammocks?"
Oct 21, 2016 3:56 pm
"Well," pauses Udutai, "I suppose we can spare a couple. I'll have one of the lads scrounge some up."
Oct 21, 2016 4:01 pm
Maenor bows politely, "Thank you, Captain, much appreciated."
Oct 21, 2016 4:22 pm
"Oh... excellent. Thank you Maenor. This will be much more comfortable."
Oct 21, 2016 7:22 pm
After several minutes, you feel the ship set sail and can hear the vessel slip across the waves. The sea is relatively calm at this hour and there is a favorable wind.

A deckhand arrives and hands over folded sheets of canvas, enough to set up 4 hammocks in your room. Much of the time, the captain and crew leave you to your business while they conduct theirs, and they do not ask you for any assistance at this time.
OOC:
If anyone wishes to do anything specific on this leg of the journey, feel free to begin.

Rolls

Secret!

Oct 24, 2016 7:52 pm
Travel across the water is uneventful and you make good time to The Tower of the Fallen. As you approach the city, it is readily apparent that it is expansive and bustling due to being one of the only public ports on the mainland in the area. Seabirds hover over the many merchant ships crowding the many docks, almost shadowing the number of people along the docks.

The Fortune Star is guided to her berth and settles in-between two smaller vessels. Once moored, Captain Udutai approaches you and says with a smile, "Here we are, The Tower of the Fallen. I do hope you've enjoyed your trip." The gangplank is lowered, and the captain descends to speak to a harbor official waiting for him below.

Captain Udutai walks over to a red dragonborn dressed in a crimson robe, underneath a black vest and long black cloak. Udutai hands over a rolled-up scroll and a gold coin, which the official takes without really looking. The dragonborn watches as each of you descend the gangplank to the dock.

When the last of you disembark, the dragonborn turns to Udutai and begins to speak. The captain replies, making small gestures with his hands before jerking a thumb over to where you are. The official huffs, swirls of black smoke escaping from its reptilian snout, and stares in your direction. With a final nod, the dragonborn turns and walks further up the pier toward the main area of the harbor, heading to a two-story stone building fronted with a gigantic banner bearing the crest of Caer Tan.
Oct 24, 2016 8:00 pm
Kalis thoroughly enjoyed their little trip, but feels that it's nice to have solid ground beneath his feet again. Once they are alone, he turns to the others, "We have a long distance to travel. I'm not sure about you, but I don't have the funds to purchase a horse."
Oct 24, 2016 11:41 pm
Coda wearily stumbles off the ship as fast as he can, laying down when he reaches solid ground, and lets out a queasy groan. After gaining his composure a bit, he lets out a little more than a mumble "Are...are horses needed? It's a good distance away but we...have a good amount of time to reach it."
Oct 25, 2016 1:49 pm
"We certainly wouldn't be able to afford horses of any decent stamina or bearing. We'd be doing the animals a disservice to attempt to take them even the distance we're planning. Any horses we could buy with our current funds would probably die before we reached our destination, and that would be a shame." Geno pulls his knapsack closer to his back and puts his hand on the hilt of his shortsword. "Besides, I'm looking forward to taking in the sights and sounds of the open country. Should be far more interesting than unending cityscapes."
Oct 25, 2016 2:43 pm
Kalis sighs in disappointment, not looking forward to the many days and nights of sore and tired feet. Librarians are not made to walk such distances! Hopefully his newfound fortitude from his draconic heritage will give him the stamina he needs. "Fair enough, we will walk," he concedes to his new companions.
Oct 26, 2016 12:00 am
Maenor claps him on the back gently. "Come now, my new friend, it will be an adventure. The first mile is always the hardest."
Oct 26, 2016 12:01 am
Kalis nods, grateful for the encouraging words, "Thank you, friend. You are right, it's all in the head. Mind over matter and all that."
Oct 26, 2016 12:26 am
From your group's vantage point you easily deduce the main roads leading from the harbor. The closest path to your left is made of densely-packed earth interspersed with wooden planks and beams to provide strength, and curves along the coast through bleak and practical warehouses. Much of the cargo that has been offloaded are carted down this road, but there appears to be a traffic jam that has begun to back up near your vicinity, with a rising chorus of unhappy shouts and yells that are difficult to comprehend from this distance.

To your right is a wide thoroughfare that heads on a straight line through a mercantile district rife with shops and restaurants toward a large castle in the distance. Along this road are branching paths that spiderweb through the city. While as crowded as you'd expect this city to be, the flow of carts and people progresses smoothly.

It is morning, and you are free to choose your path.
Oct 26, 2016 2:00 am
Coda stands up, feeling a bit better after resting on stable ground, and gives a large stretch "Ah, that's the spirit." Coda pats Kalis as high as he can reach. "I do need to stop by a shop to get something I wasn't able to before we left due to time, however I can't go alone due to my stature, so I leave the decision up to the rest of you."
Oct 26, 2016 9:33 am
Maenor points, "Well, the way through town seems more clear at the moment anyway. Besides, we've a long road ahead, it makes sense to get supplies before we head out. Even if we can't afford horses we might be able to pool our money and get a donkey or mule. They're terribly helpful beasts."
Oct 26, 2016 4:09 pm
General stores and armorers can easily be found along the main road leading through the city. Pack animals, on the other hand, would likely be near the outskirts; a simple question provides directions to a place of husbandry on the eastern side of the city.
OOC:
You will find Armor, Weapons, Adventuring Gear, Tools, and Trade Goods. While tack-and-harness and vehicles are all available, animals are limited to donkeys, horses, and ponies. Everything is listed at prices shown in the PHB.
Oct 27, 2016 2:05 am
Sling Bullets (40) - 8 cp | Ration (1) - 5 sp | Bedroll - 1 gp
**Single Whistle - 5 cp | Waterskin - 2 sp | Rations (2) - 1 gp
Sling Bullets (20) - 4 cp | Parchment - 1 sp | Donkey pool - 2 gp (If we decide on that.)
*********Candle - 1 cp |
**********Soap - 2 cp |

Total: 5 gp
OOC:
I wasn't sure if you wanted it here or the ooc thread, i'll move it if you want.
Oct 27, 2016 2:08 am
OOC:
Picking up two healer'a kits and a set of woodcarving tools, total 11GP.
Oct 28, 2016 5:12 pm
Your purchases are made with no difficulty, as the merchants are glad for the business even in such a busy city as this one. Settling your new gear amongst your belongings, you make your way to the eastern edge where you pass through a gate in a thick stone wall that encircles the city, with battlements reaching for the sky.

As you leave, your eyes are drawn to the large banners with the open-mawed crest of Caer Tan, highly visible in bright crimson and constant reminder of the city's governance. You are then roughly moved to the side with other travelers as the local guard make way for two companies of plate-armored soldiers on the march into the city. Each soldier appears armed with longsword and spear, and all are dragon-like humanoids spanning the chromatic spectrum.

From the gate, the close-pressed buildings of brick and stone within the city transition into a wider spread of low-level homes and open fields. You find the stable and, pooling your resources, have enough to purchase a pack mule. There are three to choose from, all of which are touted by the stablemaster as young and able-bodied.
OOC:
Each of you may make an Animal Handling or Nature check to assess the animals, or substitute another skill for making your selection.
Oct 28, 2016 5:19 pm
Kalis has read a bit on equine creatures and is convinced that he can determine which one is the best choice. Often though, the reality of things is much different than it is in books.
Last edited October 28, 2016 5:20 pm

Rolls

Animal Handlin - (1d20+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Oct 28, 2016 5:31 pm
Growing up in the desert, Coda is no stranger to pack animals that were used to carry lots of water back to his home town.
Last edited October 28, 2016 5:37 pm

Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+3)

(20) + 3 = 23

Oct 28, 2016 8:34 pm
Maenor has traveled a lot, but animals are not his specialty. He always has appreciated four-footed help in carrying his gear, though. He is drawn to the same animal as Coda.
Last edited October 28, 2016 8:35 pm

Rolls

animal handling - (1d20+4)

(15) + 4 = 19

Oct 30, 2016 7:07 pm
Geno hangs back and watches. He's never been good with horses, and even if he were... he doubts they'd be amenable to the powers he harbors now.
Oct 31, 2016 4:27 am
The stablehand speaks the truth, and even Kalis is able to determine that all three mules are strong and hardy. Maenor is drawn to the one named Maribel, but can't quite explain why. That is, until Coda makes it known privately to the group that Maribel's disposition would be very easy to work with on the road, provided she is cared for properly. You select Maribel and part with the gold, and as a special the stablehand throws in a free bag of feed, which will last approximately 5 days if rationed carefully.

After securing your belongings amongst yourselves and upon your new pack mule, you are ready to proceed. From this point, you can easily see the well-worn trail that extends east across the distant Giyne Veldt to the horizon, a clear path taken by caravans and other travelers.
OOC:
Determine a marching order, and watch order for camp. If there's something your character wants to do during the journey, whether on the road or at camp, let me know.
Oct 31, 2016 5:30 am
OOC:
If possible, i'd like to buy 10 more days of feed. In the phb it's labeled 1 day costs 5 cp, so the total comes out to 5 sp.
Marching order, i'll stay by Maribel's side so what ever order she gets put at and Coda will take first watch if that is okay with everyone.
Oct 31, 2016 9:15 am
OOC:
Good idea, HypCo.
I'll take second watch, and can take point or bring up the rear
Oct 31, 2016 11:57 am
OOC:
I'll take watch after Maenor, and I'm going to spend the time whittling some small wooden dice.
Oct 31, 2016 12:15 pm
OOC:
Kalis will take whatever watch remains, and will walk in the center of the group. He's going to spend his time writing a story on the paper he brought (he's not sure what the story will be about)
Oct 31, 2016 2:30 pm
OOC:
Yeah, Geno sticks behind Kalis and will take any remaining watch.
Oct 31, 2016 5:40 pm
OOC:
Excellent. You now have 15 days' worth of feed.

After applying some logic to the marching order, I have the following:
Maenor
Daniel (blind)
Kalis
Geno
Coda & Maribel

Same for the watch order, assuming 2-hour shifts:
1st: Coda
2nd: Maenor
3rd: Daniel (blind), Kalis
4th: Geno

Adjust yourselves as you see fit!

Rolls

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Oct 31, 2016 7:10 pm
CosmicKeyring sent a note to CancerMan
Last edited October 31, 2016 7:10 pm
Oct 31, 2016 7:15 pm
CancerMan sent a note to CosmicKeyring

Rolls

Secret Roll

Oct 31, 2016 8:04 pm
CosmicKeyring sent a note to CancerMan
Nov 1, 2016 8:52 pm
The trail is wide and well-traveled, but you see no traffic in your first few days. The flat grasslands of the Giyne Veldt offer little scenery except for a few rolling hills off in the distance. During this time, your pack mule proves very capable even though she isn't laden heavily, and Maribel is very cooperative and goes where needed.

You've made good progress and on the third night, you pull off the main road some distance to make camp. There is little cover by way of tree or hillside, unfortunately, but the weather does not appear foreboding and the winds are calm. It looks like it will be another peaceful night as you settle in for another meal of dry rations and water, while Maribel stands off to the side with her nose buried in a feed bag.

You have nestled within your bedrolls as the night grows and the warmth of the fire becomes comfortable. Coda sets himself up for the first watch.
OOC:
Coda, please make a Perception check
Nov 1, 2016 11:50 pm
"You can sleep well, friends, knowing that Coda is on the job."
OOC:
Okay, I haven't gotten the chance to update my character sheet since the bag of feed, so three days have passed so I mark off three food rations, leaving 12?

Rolls

What do I see? - (1d20+5)

(19) + 5 = 24

Nov 2, 2016 12:08 am
OOC:
You are also traveling through the grassland. We can assume that you let the mule graze at times to supplement the feed and stretch your supply, so while you're in this environment one day's worth of feed will last you two.
It has been an hour into Coda's watch. The wind has died down such that even the tall grasses appear to have gone to sleep. Only the light snap of the fire sparks through the air, almost loud in spite of itself.

Both Coda and Maribel perk up from a barely noticeable difference in the area. It is hard to pin down, but taking cues from Maribel's change in demeanor, Coda senses that something is amiss. Steadying himself and attuning to his surroundings, the bard attempts to figure out the cause.

It starts as a small thump, like a faint heartbeat. It is slow, but constant, and there's a weight to it that calls to mind something big, something with stride. And it's coming closer.
Nov 2, 2016 12:20 am
OOC:
Does it seem to be coming through the forest or from the trail?
Nov 2, 2016 12:25 am
OOC:
It is coming from the wilderness, away from the trail.
Nov 2, 2016 12:38 am
Coda groans to himself "Why did something have to happen on my watch." while pulling out his signal whistle and resting it in his lips. He pets Maribel, in hopes to calm her a little, and whispers "Ishs going to be okay." He waits for the noise to get a little closer before blowing the whistle.
Nov 2, 2016 12:40 am
The sound continues, and does seem like it is getting closer. Almost like the sound (or source of the sound) is making a bee-line for the camp.
Nov 2, 2016 12:51 am
Coda grabs his whistle and gives three short bursts of air, resulting in three short, shrill whistles Preet, Preet, Preet! Coda quickly throws his whistle back into his pocket, grabs his lute from the ground and holds in out with the handle pointing towards the noise.
Nov 2, 2016 12:58 am
The thumping noise pauses momentarily after the whistle, which is enough to wake anyone that's asleep in the camp. Then it resumes, and Coda notices that it is a pace quicker this time, and definitely approaching.
Nov 2, 2016 1:24 am
Maenor leaps to his feet, mace and shield in hand. He looks to Coda to see where the threat is coming from.
Nov 2, 2016 1:34 am
Kalis groans softly as he awakens, legs still sore from their travels, "What's going on?" he asks groggily, though he is coherent enough to keep his voice down as he climbs to his feet.
Nov 2, 2016 2:36 am
"Well that's just great…" Daniel rises to his feet and retrieves his cane. "What's going down?"
Nov 2, 2016 2:55 am
"Sorry, I really wanted to test my whistle out." Coda shakes his head and whispers to himself "No, Coda, not the time for jokes." Instead of pointing like a normal person, Coda unnecessarily thrust with his lute in the direction of the noise "Over there, something big wants to join our slumber party."
Last edited November 2, 2016 3:02 am
Nov 2, 2016 3:44 am
"Right then, let's get this over with." Daniel unties his blindfold and wraps it around his arm, revealing a gold coin sewn into one side. "How far would you say this was?"
Nov 2, 2016 4:02 am
OOC:
Do I know roughly how far away it is?
Nov 2, 2016 6:11 am
In the quiet night air, the thump-thump sounds roughly 160 feet away now, and closing. Despite the steady pacing of the sound, you can tell that it is approaching rather quickly.
Nov 2, 2016 7:03 am
"See for yourself, it's coming from over there." Coda does more unnecessary thrusts with his lute until he realize who was asking the question. "Oh...uh, it's about 160 feet and depleting. You're facing the wrong way though, turn around."

HypCo sent a note to CancerMan
Nov 2, 2016 9:17 am
Maenor positions himself between the sound and his comrades with his back to the fire, and tries to peer into the night to see if he can spot the source of the disturbance.
Nov 2, 2016 3:27 pm
CancerMan sent a note to HypCo
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The fire emits a warm light around your camp for approximately 20 feet, although shadows from lumpy bedrolls, packs, and standing party members limit the amount of illumination. Unfortunately, the thing that approaches is still beyond the range of Maenor's keen eyes.
Nov 2, 2016 4:22 pm
"…Right then." Daniel takes his place behind Maenor and taps his armband a few times, mumbling something in some archaic language.
OOC:
Casting Guidance on myself.
Nov 2, 2016 6:26 pm
As the sounds continues, it becomes a bit louder. It definitely calls to mind heavy footfalls of something large. You estimate it is now 120 feet away.
Nov 2, 2016 8:01 pm
Geno awakens groggily, despite the urgency of Coda's whistle. When he sees the rest of the rebels standing at attention, he jolts up and draws his short sword. Hearing the heavy footfalls, he whispers to the others.

"What is that? Is it of the Empire?"
Last edited November 2, 2016 8:01 pm
Nov 2, 2016 9:34 pm
"I think it is only coming from one source and, therefore, too large to be the empire. I also don't see why they would be coming from the wilds." With the heavy footfall getting closer, Coda looks over to Daniel to see what he is doing.
Nov 2, 2016 10:28 pm
Daniel is holding his cane with both hands, but the incantation he used doesn't seem to have had any obvious effect. "I don't suppose you all are ready for a fight?"
Nov 2, 2016 10:34 pm
Kalis double checks to make sure he has his component pouch and grabs his staff, ready to test out his magic against his first real foe. He takes a deep breath to steady himself, "Ready!"
Nov 2, 2016 11:03 pm
Maenor and Geno are the first to see the creature, thanks to their darkvision. Standing 9 feet tall, a pot-bellied giant of a humanoid strides purposefully toward the campsite. Thick ropy muscles shift under a layer of fat, and a large head sits upon a tree trunk of a neck with tusks and crooked teeth visible from a slack and open jaw. It is dressed in animal hide covering only its immense girth and stumpy legs, and it hoists a bulging sack over its bare shoulder.

The others, without benefit of being able to see in the dark, can feel the earth vibrate with each step as it approaches. And then the footsteps halt, 60 feet away. There is a snuffling sound, like congested sniffing, then a grunt. Maenor and Geno see that the creature has indeed stopped its progress and simply stands there, squinting towards the fire and those gathered around.
Nov 2, 2016 11:31 pm
With the footsteps stopping very close by, Coda figures it is a good time to end his joke and turns Daniel to face the correct way.
Nov 2, 2016 11:32 pm
Maenor peers into the darkness, trying to see if he recognizes the creature. Otherwise, he stays perfectly still.

Rolls

Nature - (1d20+3)

(20) + 3 = 23

Nov 2, 2016 11:34 pm
Maenor has learned a lot about ogres, especially since they are known to hunt and consume the feyfolk for dinner.
Nov 2, 2016 11:37 pm
Maenor softly calls out to his comrades, "It's an ogre...nasty brutes...no parlaying with these."
OOC:
Do I know anything about their weaknesses, fears, etc.?
Nov 2, 2016 11:41 pm
Maenor recalls that his ancestors' experiences label them as dim-witted, ravenous creatures attracted to shiny things, though what might be valuable to one person often holds differently for ogres. They are immensely strong and able to squash a humanoid to a pulp with one blow.
Nov 2, 2016 11:46 pm
Ogres fear little, and while they are extremely strong, they aren't the smartest of humanoids. However, Maenor also understands that an ogre's first reaction to confusion or anything it doesn't quite understand is to smash things to bits.

The ogre remains standing there, and makes another snuffling sound with its nose. Its head tilts to one side.
Nov 2, 2016 11:56 pm
As quietly as he can, Maenor calls upon his goddess to bless the party.
OOC:
Bless cast upon Maenor, Daniel, and Geno. For the next minute, we can each roll a d4 and add the number to an attack roll or saving through whenever we make one.
Nov 3, 2016 12:07 am
Kalis peers into the darkness, attempting to see the ogre he heard about.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(11) + 4 = 15

Nov 3, 2016 12:14 am
The ogre has not yet stepped into the dim light from the campfire, and Kalis lacks darkvision to see into the night. However, as he strains his senses, knowing the general whereabouts of the creature, Kalis can definitely hear and smell the ogre. Deep and heavy breaths, along with the unmistakable aroma of fresh blood and viscera mixed with unwashed oily sweat and grime.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20-2)

(6) - 2 = 4

Nov 3, 2016 2:20 am
OOC:
If possible, I'll ready vicious mockery, with the trigger being: it coming into view and appears threatening.
Nov 3, 2016 4:50 pm
Maenor and Geno see the ogre return to an upright slouch, and it resumes its long strides towards the fire. Now 40 feet away, it steps into a dim area of light from the fire and is visible to everyone, where it stops once again and regards everyone with a dull squint. The ogre sniffs the air a bit, then shifts the large sack off its shoulder and empties the contents to the ground.

A large form lands with a wet thud. It is covered in slick, matted feathers and two thick legs are splayed in unnatural directions. A huge wedge-shaped beak pokes out from someplace where it shouldn't.

The ogre remains standing there.
Nov 3, 2016 8:51 pm
Maenor cautiously approaches, trying to see if the form is breathing. He keeps his eyes mostly on the ogre, only glancing to the form from time to time.
Nov 3, 2016 8:55 pm
The form is very dead, and now that Maenor is a bit closer, very bloody and broken in places. It appears to be an axe beak, a tall flightless bird with powerful legs and a nasty disposition.

The ogre just stands there. It blinks once.
Nov 3, 2016 9:01 pm
Daniel loudly whispers when Maenor starts towards the ogre. "Don't just walk up to the thing!"
Nov 3, 2016 9:44 pm
Coda catches up to Maenor, so he isn't singled out, and taps his leg to let him know. Coda calls out to the ogre "Oi friend-o, you okay, you need help with something?"
Nov 3, 2016 10:51 pm
The ogre blinks again, and makes an inquisitive grunt. Then it speaks, a deep bass that echoes like an empty chasm. "Huh? Wukor hunt. One hand for Wukor, one hand for Guarg." The last part is said in a rote sentence, like it has been intoned countless times before.
Nov 3, 2016 11:39 pm
"Any idea what one hand means?" Coda asks quietly to Maenor before calling back out to the ogre. "It looks like you already caught your prey and it is quite the catch, I might add." Coda laughs "I don't think our tiny fire will cook that large bird, though."
Nov 3, 2016 11:43 pm
Maenor quietly replies, "I'm hoping one thing each, rather than 5."
Nov 4, 2016 12:44 am
The ogre's slack expression seems to shift to confusion. It turns its head and looks down in the direction of Coda, then to Maenor.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20-2)

Nov 4, 2016 5:42 am
"Sorry, Wukor, are you not here for our fire? I kinda guessed you smelled the smoke and came running to cook your bird. Is that not why you're here?" Coda returns a confused expression. "Oh, where are my manners, I know your name but you do not know mine. You may call me Coda and this here, next to me, is Maenor. It's a pleasure to meet you." Coda bows, but doesn't take his eyes off the ogre.
Nov 4, 2016 11:15 am
Geno follows slowly, slipping his short sword back into its sheath. When he reaches the pair he whispers to Maenor. "How fares the diplomatic approach? He seems a straightforward fellow if nothing else..." Geno intones, voice thick with tension, as he eyes the ogre in an attempt to glean its intentions.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+3)

(19) + 3 = 22

Nov 4, 2016 3:45 pm
The ogre appears confused. Geno gets the impression that the scene before the ogre is either very strange to it, or is not quite meeting its expectations.

Geno can also see in the ogre's face that the more it is being required to think, the less it is beginning to like doing it.
Nov 4, 2016 3:49 pm
Maenor quietly says, "Too many words, friend Coda." He then straightens and frowns at the ogre, speaking loud enough for it to carry, "Guarg waiting. Wukor go, bring Guarg food." He indicates the bloody mess at the ogre's feet.
Nov 4, 2016 4:06 pm
OOC:
Make a Persuasion roll. If anyone wants to assist Maenor, describe what you're doing and he might have Advantage.
Nov 4, 2016 10:36 pm
...

Rolls

persuasion: sweet talking an ogre, cleric style - (1d20+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Nov 7, 2016 12:28 am
OOC:
Ooo, nice! But, I will let someone else describe their action in assisting Maenor, if they wish.
Nov 7, 2016 2:34 am
As Maenor speaks to the ogre, Geno mutters a few arcane words to cast Thaumaturgy and dim the flames of the fire. Hopefully, the ogre will find it less interesting and be happy to acquiesce to Maenor's request...
Nov 7, 2016 5:29 am
Coda straightens from his bow and calls out to the ogre, "You shouldn't waste any more time here, Wukor, your food might wake up soon. It is a bit hard to tell how soon though from way over here, if you want, I can come over and check."

Rolls

Deception - (1d20+6)

(17) + 6 = 23

Nov 7, 2016 5:49 am
The ogre looks between Coda and Maenor, narrowing its eyes.
OOC:
Maenor may make another Persuasion check.
Nov 7, 2016 10:09 am
...

Rolls

persuasion with help - (1d20+1)

(11) + 1 = 12

Nov 7, 2016 3:58 pm
As the fire dims, the darkness creeps in closer to shroud the ogre in a dull orange. There is a tense silence as tiny wheels click slowly... or perhaps that's just the firewood crackling. The ogre huffs, eyes shifting to each side as it attempts to perform mental gymnastics.

The ogre finally shakes its head with a roar, as though clearing its head from the dull ache. It stomps a giant foot onto the bloodied axe beak, splattering gore and viscera in a wide radius onto Coda, Geno, and Maenor; the corpse won't be waking up now. "Guarg want food! Where Guarg?!" it shouts, spittle flying into the face of Maenor. It seems to be getting angry.
Nov 7, 2016 9:37 pm
"...or not. Coda says, in disgust, as he is splattered with viscera and gore. "Guarg was here just before you. He left a while ago, he said I was making his head hurt. Shame though, I was enjoying the conversation that we were having, it was really nice." Coda wipes off as much off the mess on him as he can "Anyways, I dont know exactly were Guarg went off to but he took off that way." Coda points off into the forest, a couple feet to the right of the ogre.
Nov 8, 2016 6:49 am
Wukor roars, a mixture of frustration and anger. It snatches up the large corpse with one hand and flings it over its shoulder, sending another wide arc of bodily fluids upon those before it. Some gore splatters onto the fire, where it sizzles and cracks. The ogre turns in the direction opposite where Coda points, and stomps off into the darkness.

Where the axe beak previously lay, the slick and matted ground glistens with a hint of metal.
Nov 8, 2016 7:07 am
Daniel is standing back and once again wearing his blindfold, clearly experiencing an odd mixture of terror and relief. "That... was the most scared I have been in a very long time."
Nov 8, 2016 10:08 am
Maenor steps forward to look at the metal object. He doesn't seem to notice that he's covered in gore.
Nov 8, 2016 10:14 am
With the threat seemingly gone, Coda waves his hand above his flute and recites some quick words, cleaning it of all its gore and body fluid mess. After the flute and immediate area around it is spotless, Coda ignores the rest of the viscera on him, lets out a sigh of relief and lays down, arms and legs sprawled out. He lets out a relieved chuckle "You're telling me, that guy could of squished me just by giving me a handshake."
OOC:
Casting prestidigitation to clean my flute and its sheath.
Last edited November 8, 2016 10:18 am
Nov 8, 2016 12:53 pm
Geno grimaces at the bloody corpse. "Would that all threats could be so peacefully dissuaded... if you could call it such."
Nov 8, 2016 1:01 pm
"I mean, he's gone, and none of us are dead, so yeah, I'd call that a win for us."
Nov 8, 2016 1:01 pm
"Well, that went better than expected," Kalis remarks, cleaning himself up with a quickly muttered spell.
OOC:
Prestidigitation!
Nov 8, 2016 2:42 pm
Maenor finds that the sparkle of metal are actually coins temporarily stuck together in blood. Since it'd be odd for an axe beak to carry a purse, Maenor deduces that the money was in the ogre's sack and fell out along with the corpse.
OOC:
Whoever wishes to sift through the gore finds 55 copper, 35 silver, 20 gold, and 5 platinum.
Nov 9, 2016 8:57 pm
The rest of the evening is peaceful, despite an increase in wariness for whomever takes the next watch. In the morning, you enjoy a simple meal, break camp, and resume your travel.

The road begins to dip into a low valley, following a small stream between grassy slopes interrupted by bare rock in places. While the footing throughout this area is passable for your group, you notice that anything larger than a hand cart would find this path to be the only route.

It is now close to mid-day. Maenor, marching ahead of the group, notices something in the distance with his elven eyes. There looks to be a rickety wooden bridge spanning the valley up ahead, supported by two wooden towers upon the slopes. The bridge covers a large ramshackle wooden wall that closes the road while leaving a small arch for the water to flow beneath.
OOC:
Anyone can make a Perception check.
Nov 9, 2016 9:33 pm
OOC:
Perception

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(15) + 4 = 19

Nov 9, 2016 9:58 pm
OOC:
Perception

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+7)

(14) + 7 = 21

Nov 9, 2016 9:59 pm
Kalis and Daniel each pick out an individual in each of the towers, and it appears they are armed with bows. Each tower is built into the valley wall approximately 20 feet up, and stretch another 20 feet into the sky, meaning these archers are 40 feet above the valley floor, at the same level as the bridge. The top of the valley walls crest another 10 feet above the bridge itself, where it is connected via ropes and posts.

The wall itself looks to be only 10 feet high, but the top has jagged spikes where pieces of wood have been sharpened and affixed. There appears to be two small platforms below the wall level flanking the road, accessed by a short flight of stairs; these would appear to allow someone to stand near the top of the wall and observe the other side.

You see two more individuals, one standing next to a small lean-to by the base of the wall, and another opposite on the road next to what looks like a simple sliding gate. It does appear that these people have noticed your arrival. The two archers each have an arrow nocked and ready to draw, and they watch you from their perch. The other two on the ground are relaxed, but attentive.

One of the archers looks down and calls out something to those below. A fifth individual appears near the top of the wall, likely standing on a similar platform on the opposite side. All now watch your group, seemingly waiting.
Nov 9, 2016 10:06 pm
"There are people up there in the towers and a few on the ground... they've seen us and they have bows," Kalis informs his comrades, pointing them out in a way that won't be totally obvious.
Nov 9, 2016 10:10 pm
"So how do we do this? See what's going on here or try to find another route?"
Nov 9, 2016 10:18 pm
Where you are, the walls of the valley are climbable, though the going will be slow. Conceivably, Maribel might be able to traverse the slope if she and Coda are able to find a good-enough grade.
Nov 10, 2016 4:20 am
"We need to get to our destination, and a long diversion will not help. They already see us, so why not hear what they have to say?"
Nov 10, 2016 4:24 am
"It's worth a shot, but if they're working with the dragons, we might have to fight our way through."
Nov 10, 2016 6:04 am
"I'm in agreeance with Geno. They obviously see us, no need to make ourselves look suspicious. Also, I don't see why we would need to fight them, even if they do work with the dragons. They don't know who we are or what we are doing. We can be whatever we want to be and they'd be none the wiser."
Nov 10, 2016 10:12 am
Maenor nods, "I think Coda should do the talking. He's good at...talking."
OOC:
Maenor would have divided up the ogre's money evenly, in case that doesn't go without saying, so 11 coppper, 7 silver, 4 gold, 1 platinum for each of us.
Nov 10, 2016 4:42 pm
OOC:
Assuming you approach...
As you draw closer, you are able to pick out more detail. The archers above are human males, dressed in leather, and their shortbows are paired with several quivers both on their person and stashed upon the towers. A slender elf is at the top of the wall, unarmed and unarmored, twirling a small stick in one hand. Next to the lean-to is a half-orc clad in fur, a large maul resting by his foot. Opposite him is a large orc holding a light crossbow and wearing a suit of leather with metal studs, intricately worked with silver filigree along the edges.

The wall itself appears to have a small door in addition to the sliding gate, positioned just behind the lean-to. The door is currently closed.

"Hail, travelers!" the orc calls out in Common. "Where are you off to this fine day?"
Nov 10, 2016 4:54 pm
Kalis will let Coda do the talking, but tries to get a closer look at the 'stick' that the elf is twirling.
OOC:
Kalis worries that it's a wand...

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(13) + 4 = 17

Nov 10, 2016 5:38 pm
CancerMan sent a note to Naatkinson
Nov 10, 2016 11:01 pm
"Ahoy there." Coda waves towards the orc that addressed them. "We're just on our way to The Noble City of Brewold. Bringing this fine mule to my grandma." Coda pets Maribel and smiles.
Nov 11, 2016 12:29 am
The orc nods, returning the smile. "Wonderful! Now here's a fellow what looks after his relatives. Isn't that just commendable, lads?" The others nod, some as enthusiastically as the orc's mood.

"Now, let us not delay you from your noble task," the orc continues. "We just need a toll of 5 gold per head and 10 gold per vehicle, which your beautiful mule counts as, and you can be on your way. He bows, graciously.
Nov 11, 2016 12:30 am
Kalis' eyes nearly pop out of his head when he hears the sum that they're charging for passage.
Nov 11, 2016 12:48 am
OOC:
Insight check, is he scamming us?

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

Nov 11, 2016 12:54 am
CancerMan sent a note to CosmicKeyring
Nov 11, 2016 1:02 am
Daniel leans over and whispers to Coda. "Hey, I don't think these guys are legit. Maybe we can bluff our way past."
Nov 11, 2016 2:18 am
Coda turns his head, nods at Daniel and in a clear voice "I know, friend." He turns back to the orc with a sigh "I don't know who you think we are but you are very mistaken, what you're asking for is close to 40 gold. That is more than most of us, if not all of us, have seen at a single time." Coda gestures to the rest of the group.
Nov 11, 2016 2:43 am
"Mistaken?" says the orc, holding a hand to his heart. "My stars! Hey! Did I do my numbers wrong?" He looks to the elf at the top of the wall.

The elf shakes his head and replies in a low drawl. "No, boss."

The orc nods. "Ah, good. Well, since I am not mistaken, the toll stands." He taps a finger against his tusk, appraising your group. "Of course, if you don't have the money as you seem to imply, that does pose a problem. Tell you what; you hand over what you can pay in coin, and we'll also take some of that fancy equipment you all are carrying. I'm sure that will make up the difference!"

You notice that the two archers seem a little more tense than before, leaning their bows in your direction. The half-orc with the maul brings the head up until it rests on his shoulder. The door behind the lean-to now opens, and another orc appears, holding a greataxe in two hands.
Nov 11, 2016 3:22 am
"How about this, you let us through for free and in turn I will give you some business tips as it is very clear you lot are in need of some help."
Nov 11, 2016 3:38 am
The orc in studded leather chortles a bit, before guffawing into full laughter. He slaps his knee and shakes his head. "That's brilliant! This guy's a natural, he's so funny!" This causes the other orc and the half-orc to laugh, and the elf to smile. The two archers above do not join in, but they do pull their bowstrings back a bit.

Then, almost as quickly as it started, the laughter stops. "No, seriously," says the orc, smile dropping as his crossbow comes up to rest on his shoulder. All pretense of mirth has faded, and the orc's jaw is set. "You either pay the toll, or you go back the way you came."
Nov 11, 2016 4:24 am
"It wasn't meant to be a joke and I'm not being funny. My advice would be worth more than what you would get out of us and your next visitors and the next visitors after that." Coda shrugs "But if you want to belittle me, I guess we'll go back the way we came. Have a nice day and good luck with your practices." Coda turns, pats Maribel, "Come on, girl." and starts to walk away with her.
Last edited November 11, 2016 4:25 am
Nov 11, 2016 4:46 am
The gatekeepers make no move to stop you, watching your departure.
Nov 11, 2016 5:19 am
While Coda is walking away, he whispers to which ever member is out of the earshot of the orcs "Watch the ranged ones, I don't trust them."
Nov 11, 2016 4:28 pm
Maenor keeps a close eye on the brigands as the halfling walks back to the group.
Nov 11, 2016 4:37 pm
The archers watch you like proverbial hawks. Their bows are held downward and not in your immediate direction, but still readied. The three orcish humanoids stand by the wall, semi-relaxed, and the orc that spoke to you gives a small wave. The elf is expressionless, and idly scratches his scalp with his stick.

From the valley slope beyond the wall, a raven takes to the sky. None of the gatekeepers seem to notice.
Nov 11, 2016 11:09 pm
"Not a bad move... the path may be inconvenient, but it certainly beats having to fight a mass of foul brigands like those..."
Nov 11, 2016 11:14 pm
"Yes, so long as they don't start raining arrows down on us as soon as they see where we're going," Kalis remarks.
Nov 12, 2016 2:38 am
You head back the way you arrived, and the road gradually rises upward as it leaves this valley. A glance at the map shows that taking the long way around will keep you on the grasslands, but will add approximately 4 more days before you are able to return to the caravan route.

No person can be seen, nor any creature around seems to show much interest in you. Even the raven in the sky looks content to soar amidst the thermals.
Nov 12, 2016 3:03 am
"Well, that approach didn't work. However, I did have another idea over there but I wanted to make it known to the rest of you before enacting it, as it is a much more aggressive approach. Honestly though, I don't think it is worth it. I think we should just take the loss of four days and keep our lives and belongings." Coda scratches at his beard and gauges the groups reaction.
Nov 12, 2016 3:31 am
"I should like to hear your idea, friend Coda."
Nov 12, 2016 4:02 am
"It is nothing spectacular and like I said much more aggressive. We oust them for what they are, common thieves, in hopes of intimidation but I highly doubt they'd be moved by threats. This is just my beliefs but I think the only way past them is paying their exorbitant toll or killing them." Coda sighs before giving Maenor a smile "I've given my thoughts on this and do believe the four extra days is much more favorable. However, I am but one of this family, I will follow and support whatever the group decision is."
Nov 14, 2016 10:21 pm
"They may be common thieves, but it seems unnecessarily violent, not to mention a risk of our mission. I say we take the long way around and consider ourselves lucky," Kalis says.
Nov 15, 2016 4:25 am
"I agree with Kalis. I'd prefer to avoid what conflict we can, as I know there will be plenty we cannot avoid."
Nov 15, 2016 6:19 am
Your journey down the longer route sees no pursuit, and you are alone in your travels save for the lone raven circling the air above. The terrain here features more rolling hills with some kopjes scattered amidst the grassland. You find no difficulty with walking and your progress is smooth, but you do see that a caravan of wagons or other large vehicles would not fare as well as yourselves on foot.

You are now a half-day from the encounter with the gatekeepers, and the sun is beginning to set low upon the horizon. The time for setting camp is drawing nigh, and even the raven flaps its wings towards the distance, perhaps looking for shelter.
Nov 15, 2016 7:03 am
Coda gives praise to Maribel throughout the day with the occasional handful of feed to keep her motivated. Glancing at the setting sun "We should find a place to settle down for the night soon, preferably sans ogres this time." Coda lets out a light chuckle before talking in a more quizzical tone "Perhaps this is just me and my imagination but has that raven been following us?"
Nov 15, 2016 10:32 am
"I believe you are correct. It troubles me that it leaves us now. We should be wary."
OOC:
Which direction did it fly off?
Nov 15, 2016 3:58 pm
The raven flew off in the direction of the valley, and by your estimate the gate you did not pass through.
Nov 15, 2016 4:09 pm
"Well, it looks like we should keep a close watch tonight, because I think we're going to have trouble."
Nov 15, 2016 5:36 pm
The night feels oppressive, as though the dark constantly pushes in to find purchase against the light from your fire. There is no wind tonight, which ironically adds volume to the silence that surrounds you. The snap of the fire is your only accompaniment as you keep your watch over an uneasy sleep. Trusting your teammates, you do find sleep, and take your turn at guard.

Nothing happens.

It is now morning. The fire burns low even as the sky begins to brighten, and a soft breeze arrives across the grassland like a welcome visitor, cool and comfortable.
Nov 15, 2016 6:43 pm
As I awaken, I scan the horizon for the raven.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(18) + 3 = 21

Nov 15, 2016 6:49 pm
The morning sky is clear.

No wait, there it is, coming up from the direction of the valley.
Nov 15, 2016 7:17 pm
"Someone with a bow want to see if they can take down the bird? It's making me nervous," Kalis says, casting a simple spell to clean himself up.
Nov 15, 2016 7:21 pm
OOC:
How far away is the bird?
Nov 15, 2016 7:32 pm
At this time the raven is close to half a mile away, as its black silhouette is easily visible against the clear morning sky. It is making headway towards your vicinity, and you estimate it flies within an altitude between 60 and 80 feet in the air as some birds are wont to do. The raven does not approach on a direct line, occasionally flapping its wings to gain lift in the breeze one way, then coasting to the other.

Given what you know of bird flight, unless something distracts it, the raven should arrive fairly soon.
Nov 16, 2016 11:23 pm
Maenor watches intently the direction it came from.
Nov 17, 2016 6:47 am
Nothing else seems to be in the area, either on land or in the air. The raven appears to be alone.
Nov 17, 2016 6:12 pm
The sun has crested the horizon, casting a morning glow upon the veldt. A flock of a dozen tiny birds, no bigger than your finger, flit amidst the grass with quick and high-pitched chirps, picking off the spikelets and moving on. Maribel also chews on some nearby grass, tail swishing slowly in contentment.

The sky is clear, and the raven's black form stands out distinctly as it coasts above your camp, using its wings to hover amidst the breeze.
Nov 17, 2016 9:06 pm
A small spark of eldritch flame spawns within Geno's palm, but he holds in the burning force with clenched fingers. With an eyebrow raised, he looks at the party.

"Do we kill it?"
Nov 17, 2016 9:14 pm
"Yes, definitely... I fear that the elf at the guard post was a wizard of some kind. If so, then it follows that this is probably his familiar," Kalis reasons, giving voice to his fears.
Nov 17, 2016 10:13 pm
OOC:
Anyone who wishes to make an attack against the raven may roll versus AC 12. Range is 70 feet in the air, so don't forget any disadvantage for certain ranged weapons.
Nov 17, 2016 10:14 pm
Kalis focuses, still not comfortable with the offensive uses of his new powers, and launches a singular bolt of fire at the raven.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (10) = 10

Nov 17, 2016 10:28 pm
There is a loud and surprised SQUAWK! from the raven before it erupts into a tiny fireball. When the smoke clears, not even a wisp of ash remains.
Nov 18, 2016 4:37 pm
A minute passes, and there is no other activity that you can see in your area. Even the wind has seemingly been shocked into silence.

Eventually, nature resumes its course. Those tiny birds resume their chittering as they flit between the grass, Maribel chews something contentedly, and the fire begins to die out.
Nov 18, 2016 4:46 pm
"Well... that's over with. I suppose we should get moving, and quick. If that was his familiar, then he will know that we killed it," Kalis says, adjusting the pack on his back and getting ready to move again.
Nov 18, 2016 6:53 pm
"No arguments there." Coda says as he gathers his things and loads Maribel back up with her feed.
Nov 18, 2016 7:35 pm
You enjoy a morning meal and break camp to resume your journey. For the remainder of the day, you are not bothered by anything except the weather, which is pleasant. The skies are clear.

The following day, the kopjes become more frequent as you travel, and as the sun rises to its zenith, you are forced to weave your way through rockier terrain. The wind has started to pick up, but you are sheltered from the brunt of it thanks to the outcrops and hills. Clouds have begun to roll in, casting intermittent shadows at the periphery of sunlight.

There is nary a sound save the passage of your footfalls and the faint whistle of wind through the rocks. Due to the terrain, you find it difficult to see the next turn and your field of vision has become limited.
OOC:
Perception check, please!

Rolls

Secret Roll

Nov 18, 2016 7:36 pm
OOC:
Perception!

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(15) + 4 = 19

Nov 18, 2016 7:38 pm
OOC:
.
Last edited November 18, 2016 7:41 pm

Rolls

1D20+5

(8) + 5 = 13

Nov 18, 2016 7:39 pm
OOC:
Perception!

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+7)

(19) + 7 = 26

Nov 18, 2016 7:39 pm
OOC:
The blind guy sees all!
Last edited November 18, 2016 7:39 pm
Nov 18, 2016 7:44 pm
OOC:
The avatar is Daredevil after all...
Nov 18, 2016 11:42 pm
The path starts into a bend, with three tall outcroppings looming overhead and funneling you into an area with enough room to stand two people shoulder-to-shoulder. All of you catch the sudden glint of metal as it shifts amidst the rocks in front of you; it was enough to discern a silhouette that had just moved. Kalis catches the whiff of a dank, musky scent to the group's left, something animalistic yet not. Daniel senses that, too, but also detects a similar presence on the group's right.

As a result of your keen observations, your party is prepared for the sudden roar and appearance of two bugbears that leap out from the outcrops. Armed with large wooden clubs, they both descend to the path, one landing behind while the other approaches from the front, and each is 30 feet away.

A hobgoblin dressed in chainmail steps out from behind the rocks ahead, grinning as he draws a longbow. He laughs and says something harsh and guttural in a language none of you understand, nocking an arrow where he stands 50 feet ahead upon the outcrop. The bugbears make to charge.
OOC:
Combat! You are not surprised and can act first this round, in any order.
Nov 18, 2016 11:49 pm
Kalis panics upon seeing the huge goblinoids, launching the same spell he had so much luck with against the raven. He sends a bolt of flame at the hobgoblin with the bow, then moves so that he's behind the more burly warriors.
OOC:
Firebolt it is!

EDIT: Boom! I like this spell :)
Last edited November 19, 2016 12:13 am

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

1d20+5 : (17) + 5 = 22

1d10 : (8) = 8

Nov 19, 2016 12:06 am
"Right then, this is where you all come in." Daniel ties his blindfold around his arm and puts a second hand on his cane.
OOC:
Everyone but me has Bless on them, add a d4 to any attack roll or saving throw for the next minute.
Nov 19, 2016 12:12 am
The hobgoblin's bemused expression quickly turns into surprise as the flame strikes him in the chest. The burst of arcane fire almost sends him hurtling backwards, were it not for the rocks the cushioned his body's impact. The arrow falls to the ground as the hobgoblin furiously pats out the embers singing his chainmail.
Nov 19, 2016 12:46 am
"Hey, stinky, we smelled you from a mile away!" Coda yells before taking Maribel and getting her as far away from the attackers as he can to where he thinks she would be safest. Passing by Geno, Coda whispers "I believe in you." before continuing running off to the center.
OOC:
Geno has bardic inspiration, giving him a d6 for ability checks, attack rolls, and saving throws.

Unless I'm missing something, Bless is only three people. Since I don't have many attack rolls, I'll be the other one who doesn't have Bless.
Last edited November 19, 2016 1:36 am

Rolls

Hobgoblin - Wis save DC 14 - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Nov 19, 2016 1:03 am
The hobgoblin pauses as it hears the halfling's cry. There is a look of sudden realization, that despite his martial prowess and tactical superiority to these hapless adventurers, it was the lack of proper bathing that doomed this ambush. The shame and horror prove too much for the hobgoblin to take, as his eyes roll back into his head and blood runs from his ears and nose. He falls forward and lands with a thud onto the path, unmoving.
OOC:
Coda, there are bugbears blocking off the path in front and behind the group, and outcrops to the left and right. I'll therefore assume you're moving yourself and Maribel into the middle of the party with Kalis?
Nov 20, 2016 12:05 am
Maenor fires a bolt of light from his hand toward the bugbear on the path in front of them, then sets his shield and mace and prepares to meet the beast's onslaught.
OOC:
Next hit against this target rolls with advantage, assuming a 24 hits its AC
Last edited November 20, 2016 12:06 am

Rolls

guiding bolt - (1d20+6)

(18) + 6 = 24

damage (radiant) - (4d6)

(4553) = 17

Nov 21, 2016 6:36 pm
Geno conjures the same hellfire between his fingers as before and stares at the party's attackers. With a look of grim determination, he flings the furious energy towards one of the bugbears.
Last edited November 21, 2016 6:36 pm

Rolls

Eldritch Blast; Damage - (1d20+6, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (6) = 6

Nov 21, 2016 6:39 pm
OOC:
Remember to be adding your d4s to those attack rolls!
Nov 21, 2016 7:26 pm
OOC:
I've assumed that Geno targeted the bugbear in back of the party. This also means that the next person to strike the bugbear in front has advantage on the attack, thanks to Maenor's Guiding Bolt.
The bugbear in front of the party is briefly illuminated by a divine light as Maenor's radiant power strikes it full in the chest. It roars in immense pain and bloodlust, striding forward to the cleric to swing its club in anger. The club connects (18 vs AC 17), nearly crumpling Maenor's shield and the elf's arm (8 damage).

Geno's blast of arcane energy hits the bugbear behind the group in its abdomen, but it is not enough to slow it down. It rushes for the warlock and brings its club down in an overhead smash. Geno manages to avoid the brunt of the attack, but it clips his shoulder (22 vs AC 15) and almost topples the tiefling to the ground (9 damage).

Player Turn!
Nov 21, 2016 7:35 pm
Kalis feels a strange sense of calm wash over him as battle ensues in full. He feels a pounding in the back of his head, feels the majesty of dragonkind flowing through his veins and holds out a hand. Three magical darts of force fly forth to strike their opponents. Two of them strike the bugbear attack Maenor, and the other strikes the bugbear attacking Geno.
OOC:
Magic Missile!

EDIT: Oh here we go...
Last edited November 21, 2016 7:35 pm

Rolls

Geno Bugbear - (1d4+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Maenor Bugbear - (2d4+2)

(11) + 2 = 4

Nov 21, 2016 7:54 pm
Coda grips the handle of his lute and with his other hand starts to make obscene hand gestures and choice words under his breath to three of the bugbears. He then gives a few strums on his lute in Daniels direction.
OOC:
Casting Bane on the two bugbears that havent went yet and the one on Geno. Charisma check, -d4 to attack and saves if failed. Bardic Inspiration to Daniel, d6 to one attack roll, ability, or saving throw.
Nov 21, 2016 8:00 pm
Daniel sighs and advances on the bugbear attacking Maenor, drawing his blade out of the cane and stabbing the beast in the chest. "You just had to ambush us, didn't you?"
OOC:
Total damage is 11.
Last edited November 21, 2016 8:02 pm

Rolls

Rapier + Sneak Attack - (1d20+6, 1d8+4, 1d6)

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

1d8+4 : (3) + 4 = 7

1d6 : (4) = 4

Advantage - (1d20+6)

(4) + 6 = 10

Nov 21, 2016 8:02 pm
OOC:
Bardic inspiration is a one time thing. so I wouldn't use it on a nat. 17.
OOC:
Nevermind, that is sneak attack.
Last edited November 21, 2016 8:06 pm
Nov 21, 2016 10:55 pm
OOC:
There are only two bugbears, one in front and one behind. I'm sorry for the confusion!
The bugbear lifts its club once again to strike, but its arm is thrown aside by the impact of Kalis' magic. Before it can cry out in retaliation, Daniel's thin blade sinks effortlessly into the bugbears heart. All at once aware of its own mortality, the bugbear staggers backward and makes to flee, before its legs give out and it falls to the ground, darkness overtaking it.

The remaining bugbear blinks dully as Coda's words and gestures assail its senses, not even understanding half of what the halfling means. It roars, shaking its head and taking one step back.
OOC:
Only one bugbear left, harassing Geno. It failed its CHA save.
Nov 22, 2016 10:48 pm
OOC:
Geno and Maenor still have actions to take, before it's the bugbear's turn.
Nov 23, 2016 12:18 am
Maenor falls to his knees with a groan, cradling his shattered arm. He mumbles a prayer and his ashen face is suffused with colour as he stands and turns to face the final foe, his body whole once more.
Last edited November 23, 2016 12:18 am

Rolls

cure wounds - (1d8+6)

(3) + 6 = 9

Nov 23, 2016 6:14 am
Geno stands shakily before the bugbear, reeling from the blow. Still in a lot of pain, Geno throws his arms out, reaching for dark fire that appears between his fingers. He pulls its warmth close, allowing it to envelop him. The black flames are cool around his wounds and with that small balm he stands defiantly, daring the bugbear to strike him down.
OOC:
Self-casting Armor of Agathys. +5 Temp HP for a total of 7 HP currently. Anyone who deals damage to Geno's temp HP takes 5 Cold damage. 1/2 spell slots expended.
Nov 23, 2016 8:42 am
The bugbear waves away something in front of its face, then refocuses its attention on the party. It looks past you to the bodies of its companions painting the ground with their blood, and with a snort the bugbear decides you all aren't worth it. It disengages from Geno and runs, loping 30 feet down the path away from you.

Player turn!
Nov 23, 2016 8:52 am
"Run as fast as you can, you'll never out run your stench, friendo."

Rolls

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Nov 23, 2016 5:04 pm
The bugbear stumbles, clutching its head in apparent pain. It falters, as though momentarily giving up on outrunning anything.
Nov 23, 2016 7:44 pm
As close as he was to the bugbear, Geno saw the sudden stutter in their once brutal movement. Curious, even through the pain, he tries to understand why the bugbear made the gesture it did.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+3)

(15) + 3 = 18

Nov 23, 2016 7:54 pm
Kalis was going to let the monster go, but he doesn't want to let it suffer despite it obviously being an evil being. Sighing loudly, Kalis draws upon the powers of his ancestors, his eyes flashing to a reptilian yellow and then back to normal as he fires off a bolt of fire at the Bugbear.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (7) = 7

Nov 23, 2016 9:58 pm
The brief stumble was enough to dodge the fiery missile, and the outcrop bursts into a small explosion near the bugbear's head.
Nov 23, 2016 10:49 pm
Maenor drops his mace and reaches out a hand once more, this time calling down flame onto the fleeing bugbear.

Rolls

Sacred Flame (Dex Save DC 14) - (1d8)

(3) = 3

Nov 23, 2016 11:06 pm
Divine fire rains down upon the bugbear, singeing its fur and adding to its stench of sweat, grime, and fear.
Nov 23, 2016 11:14 pm
Daniel ties his blindfold back on and sheathes his blade. "We could probably just let him go."
Nov 27, 2016 5:25 am
DJForeclosure says:
As close as he was to the bugbear, Geno saw the sudden stutter in their once brutal movement. Curious, even through the pain, he tries to understand why the bugbear made the gesture it did.
Geno understands that the bugbear prefers to live rather than face certain death at the hands of the party, assailed as it is by the arcane psychic force. The halfling's words cut it more than the sharpest blade, which is something the bugbear doesn't want to tangle with after seeing its companions fall.

The bugbear clambers up the outcrop, dashing away from the group. It disappears out of sight over the top and can be heard running off into the distance.
OOC:
Combat over!
Nov 27, 2016 5:41 am
Coda stands on the tip of his toes, looking off to where the bugbear disappeared "Is it safe to let it go or should we give chase?" returning back to his heels, Coda turns to pet Maribel and gives her a handful of feed.
Nov 27, 2016 11:38 am
Maenor looks angrily at the disappearing bugbear, "It is never safe to let creatures like those roam free, but we have someplace to be. We have lost too much time already."
Nov 27, 2016 1:26 pm
"Not worth the effort, and we probably couldn't catch it anyway." Daniel starts searching the bodies of the other two goblinoids.
Nov 27, 2016 3:05 pm
Geno shakes his head, pushing away his overly complicated thoughts about the bugbear's motivation. Just in time too, as he barely catches himself from collapsing from exhaustion as his blue-flame armor melts away. "I'm afraid I have larger concerns than the continued breathing of that bugbear. My own continued breathing... for example," Geno grunts, his voice strained.
Nov 27, 2016 4:21 pm
CancerMan sent a note to CosmicKeyring
Nov 27, 2016 5:56 pm
CosmicKeyring sent a note to CancerMan
Nov 27, 2016 6:44 pm
CancerMan sent a note to CosmicKeyring
Nov 27, 2016 6:55 pm
CosmicKeyring sent a note to CancerMan

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+3, 1d20+3)

1d20+3 : (9) + 3 = 12

1d20+3 : (9) + 3 = 12

Guidance - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Nov 27, 2016 8:19 pm
Daniel begins poking and feeling the body of the slain bugbear. His hands navigate to where he thinks there ought to be something of value, perhaps around the waist and underneath the hide armor. He manages to find a small pouch and... no, THAT'S not it! Quickly withdrawing his hand, he investigates further up the body and discovers a coin purse.

Apparently satisfied with what he found on the bugbear, Daniel moves to the hobgoblin further up the path, tapping with his cane to determine the way.
CancerMan sent a note to CosmicKeyring
Nov 27, 2016 8:23 pm
CosmicKeyring sent a note to CancerMan

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+3, 1d20+3)

1d20+3 : (19) + 3 = 22

1d20+3 : (15) + 3 = 18

Guidance - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Nov 27, 2016 8:47 pm
If anything, the hobgoblin kept his possessions in better order, and Daniel manages to find items of value rather easily. He fishes out a coin purse and two pieces of parchment with broken wax seals, along with a large rolled-up item made of canvas.
Nov 29, 2016 8:28 pm
OOC:
What does the party wish to do now?
Nov 29, 2016 8:31 pm
Daniel pockets the gold and walks back to the group, holding out the scrolls and the canvas. "Anyone want to tell me what these are?"
Nov 29, 2016 8:34 pm
Kalis takes the items, "Yeah, let me take a look..."
Nov 29, 2016 9:42 pm
The parchment are two folded letters, written in a script similar to Dwarvish, but in a language that neither Kalis nor anyone else in the group can understand. The first letter appears to be addressed to a Vrard, as near that Kalis can decipher, and written by someone named Vulzal. The second letter is also written by Vulzal and appears to be a general announcement, as there is no addressee. Kalis does spy the word "Guarg" in the text.

The canvas unfurls to reveal a map of the area for many miles, up until the Dreaming Forest to the east. The caravan route is clearly shown, with marks at two different points along the trail, written in the same language as the letters. Kalis determines that the western mark on this map corresponds to the checkpoint the party sought to navigate around; the eastern mark is near the Dreaming Forest, where the route turns north.

The map also has several noted locations, one of which is near where the party currently is. These locations are all north of the caravan route, spaced approximately 2 to 4 days apart from each other, but in no apparent order other than, perhaps, favorable terrain.
Nov 30, 2016 12:47 am
Maenor peers over Kalis' shoulder at the map. "Fascinating! Those were not mere ruffians, but part of a more organized band of some sort. And allied with the brigands from the tower near the bridge."
Nov 30, 2016 12:50 am
"Hmm... we've got a nice little map with some troubling markings and some letters that are in a language I can't read."
Nov 30, 2016 1:44 am
"This level of organization worries me about the one we let go, even more so now."
OOC:
So I don't meta game, how much of these notes is Kalis relaying to us or are we able to see what he saw ourselves?
Nov 30, 2016 1:49 am
Kalis hands over the contents freely.
OOC:
That make you feel better? ;-)
Last edited November 30, 2016 1:49 am
Nov 30, 2016 2:34 am
Judging by the scale on the map, the marked location near you is only half a day's travel. However, you would need to deviate north from your current route.
Nov 30, 2016 5:29 am
Coda places his finger on the "Guarg" word "It seems our ogre friend is famous, I wonder what type of fame he's warranted. What are you're thoughts on a detour to check out whatever this might be?" He moves his finger to the closest marked location.
Nov 30, 2016 2:52 pm
Geno shrugs, then winces. "Depends. Is there any chance we'll miss our rendezvous or perhaps get mauled by bugbears again?"
Nov 30, 2016 4:35 pm
"We could check it out. It could be valuable information in the future," Kalis says, "on the other hand, we could get ourselves killed and we'd never be able to show this map or the letters to our superiors. I say we keep on with our current job," he finishes, hating the need to leave the mystery unsolved.
OOC:
Damn you, RP! I wanna check it out, but Kalis knows it's not a good idea.
Last edited November 30, 2016 9:25 pm
Nov 30, 2016 9:20 pm
"In any case, we shouldn't stick around. That bugbear might be back soon."
Nov 30, 2016 9:46 pm
"Anyone else want to take a last look before we move on?" Coda offers the letters and map, carefully stuffing them in the case if everyone declines and loading on to Maribel. After checking himself, he looks over the rest of the group "I agree we should move soon, is everyone feeling well enough to travel?"
Dec 1, 2016 12:19 am
Oh, yes, I should have asked. Is anyone in need of healing?"
Dec 1, 2016 3:54 pm
Geno unsteadily raises his hand.
Dec 1, 2016 8:28 pm
https://dl.dropbox.com/s/zhxymvtkfdac6kc/ROSE_01_Hobgoblin_Map.jpg
OOC:
Yellow Star indicates party's present location.

1 hex = 1 days' travel
Dec 2, 2016 12:39 am
Maenor lays a gentle hand on Geno's shoulder and whispers a prayer as healing energy courses through, mending wounds and easing pain.

Rolls

Cure wounds - (1d8+4)

(3) + 4 = 7

Dec 2, 2016 12:51 am
OOC:
Now that you have the map, you are free to plot your course. Which way do you go, or where is your destination?
Dec 2, 2016 1:20 am
"Feeling better enough for travel now, Geno? If not, I may be of small service as well, I doubt it would be comparable to Maenor's magic. We should start moving soon, just for sake of moving."
OOC:
I think the majority wanted to continue on our actual mission.
Dec 2, 2016 7:03 pm
https://dl.dropbox.com/s/v4802wmb8thbyrj/ROSE_01_Hobgoblin_Map_3.jpg

Using the hobgoblin's map as a guide, you plot a course parallel to the caravan route and attempt to avoid the marked locations. You reason that heading directly east for one week across the grasslands and hills, passing through that small gap in the larger ridgeline, and heading northeast will make good time.

Your travel for one week is uneventful. You see no activity beyond wild animals native to the grasslands, and certainly nothing with the perceived agency of your previous raven companion. You've reached the western edge of the ridgeline, and estimate it will take you three or four days to reach the gap. From this distance, you can see that the ridges are not quite mountainous, rising only 2500 feet at its highest and covered in green brush and a smattering of trees.

At the end of the seventh day, it is nearing time for your party to make camp for the night. The sun is setting and soon the light will fall.
Dec 2, 2016 8:26 pm
Coda pulls out the hobgoblin map "I suppose we should start planning for the future. We have another tower coming up it would seem, so that brings forth a couple of questions. I think the best choice is to avoid it and not waste our time checking it out, in the off chance the other tower informed them about us."
Dec 2, 2016 9:42 pm
"That seems wise to me."
Dec 2, 2016 9:46 pm
Kalis nods his agreement, "Better to be safe after what happened last time."
Dec 4, 2016 8:20 pm
Nothing happens this night as you make camp, and on the break of the next morn you continue on a path parallel to the road, picking your way along the hilly terrain as you make for the gap in the ridgeline.

Three uneventful days pass, and you've progressed into a dale with steep slopes to your north and south. There is still a wide expanse of grassland around you, so your travel is unimpeded. As you break northeast, you walk for another day to the gap, and here the ridgeline becomes more gradual.
OOC:
Perception check, everyone!
Dec 4, 2016 8:25 pm
OOC:
Perception!(with disadvantage if sight-related.)
Last edited December 4, 2016 8:26 pm

Rolls

Perception(Disadvantage) - (1d20+7, 1d20+7)

1d20+7 : (16) + 7 = 23

1d20+7 : (14) + 7 = 21

Dec 4, 2016 8:38 pm
OOC:
I like how the blind guy our best look out.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+5)

(17) + 5 = 22

Dec 4, 2016 8:50 pm
OOC:
Perception

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Dec 5, 2016 4:24 am
It is close to mid-morning as you've entered the gap in the ridgeline. Daniel, Coda, and Kalis immediately hear the squeal of a horse in the distance. Coda, bringing up the rear, instinctively looks behind and sees three riders galloping down the slope one mile away, heading towards the party. The glint of metal in the sunlight reveals armor, but at this distance the riders are too far away to discern their identities.

https://dl.dropbox.com/s/2zs87m1y4uhjob4/ROSE_01_Hobgoblin_Map_4.jpg
CancerMan sent a note to CosmicKeyring
Dec 5, 2016 4:29 am
Coda does a low whistle to alert the rest of the group "Looks like we have company. Be ready, in case it is our tower friends looking to revenge their bird." Coda will usher Maribel more towards the center as the riders approach.
Dec 5, 2016 10:13 am
Maenor readies his shield but leaves his mace on his belt as he stands in front of his companions.
Dec 5, 2016 12:19 pm
Geno, still daydreaming after days of uneventful travel, looks around at his companions as they grow tense. He draws his sword with a slight tremble, recalling his wounds after their last battle.
Dec 5, 2016 5:28 pm
Kalis takes a steadying breath, remembering the euphoria of the dragon blood flowing through his veins and readies himself in case this turns to battle.
Dec 5, 2016 5:47 pm
The three riders continue a gallop down the gradual slope in your direction. As they close, you are able to pick out more detail, although you still cannot identify the riders themselves. You can see that two have long spears or javelins, while one seems to have a longbow. They do not appear to be slowing down.
Dec 5, 2016 8:59 pm
Coda climbs atop Maribel to get his small stature off the ground and out of trampling territory.
Dec 5, 2016 10:45 pm
As the riders draw closer to a quarter-mile from your location, you start to pick out more detail. They appear to be hobgoblins, blood-red skin showing through their metal armor. Sunlight glints off their shields and open-faced helmets as they continue a charge.
Dec 6, 2016 2:28 am
"Do we think we can handle them? Or should we try and hide?"
Dec 6, 2016 3:55 am
Coda looks around "Is there a place to hide? We see them, there is the possibility they see us."
Dec 6, 2016 7:24 am
Your group is on a flat plain, with grass and a bit of scrub here and there; nothing really significant enough to hide yourselves behind. You've been out in the open for some time, and can reasonably expect to be visible to anyone from a high vantage point.
Dec 6, 2016 7:57 am
"I think if they are coming for a fight, there is no avoiding it. Hopefully, they are just passing through." Coda lets out a chuckle "They probably have nothing to do with that one we let run away, huh."
Dec 6, 2016 4:53 pm
Maenor raises an eyebrow but carefully stops himself from saying 'I told you so'.
Dec 7, 2016 4:48 am
"Damn. At least we are prepared this time..."
Dec 7, 2016 4:55 am
"I doubt very much they're just going to leave us alone..."
Dec 7, 2016 4:57 am
"Maybe if ask nicely." Coda laughs as he draws his lute, letting off a few strums to check its tune.
Dec 7, 2016 7:57 am
The two hobgoblins with spears continue a charge straight at the party, now closing to approximately 600 feet away. The one with the longbow veers off at an angle, readying an arrow and drawing a bead towards you.
Dec 7, 2016 1:06 pm
"Something tells me they're not interested in talking." Daniel removes his blindfold and ties it around his arm.
Dec 8, 2016 3:05 am
Geno looks around, desperate to find a place where the group could break line of sight with the longbow wielder.

Rolls

Perception (if necessary) - (1d20+3)

(14) + 3 = 17

Dec 8, 2016 5:34 pm
There is only grass and small scrub brush in your area, which barely comes up to your knees.
Dec 8, 2016 7:47 pm
"Curses, we're sitting ducks out here if they start to bombard us."
Dec 8, 2016 7:50 pm
"My spells can't reach that far... anyone with a bow want to see if they can take out that archer?"
Dec 8, 2016 8:25 pm
"Likewise, however, I may be able to aid those that can reach that far. I do agree that the archer should be our main priority if this is coming to blows."
Dec 9, 2016 7:32 pm
As no one has anything for this long range, the party remains stationary. The two hobgoblins continue their charge, closing to 480 feet, spears glinting in the sunlight. You can hear the thundering hooves against the earth.

The archer continues a flanking move, not closing as quickly as it rides along an arc. From 500 feet away, the longbow angles upward and the hobgoblin fires an arrow. It demonstrates tremendous accuracy at this distance as the projectile slashes Geno across the side (18 vs AC with disadvantage, 4 damage) before burying itself into the ground.
Dec 11, 2016 3:22 am
OOC:
Consider this a round in combat. What will you do?
Dec 11, 2016 3:43 am
OOC:
I'm don't have many options, so I'll bardic inspiration if someone wants to try and take a shot.
Dec 11, 2016 12:05 pm
OOC:
I don't have anything with that kind of range either.
Maenor sets down his shield and unlimbers his crossbow. He kneels behind his shield, resting the loaded crossbow atop it and waiting for the riders to come into range.
Dec 12, 2016 1:26 am
Daniel pulls out a dagger and waits for the archer to get closer to him.
Dec 12, 2016 3:42 am
OOC:
I don't really have much at this range either, and I can't think of a non-combat solution...
Geno draws his crossbow while wincing at yet ANOTHER perforation in his muscles.

"What did I ever do to anger all these goblinoids...?"
Dec 12, 2016 7:24 pm
The spearmen continue their charge, closing in to a distance of 360 feet. The archer maintains a distance, its angle taking it to 450 feet from the group.

Another arrow sails into the sky, arcing on a trajectory straight for Geno again. Now aware of the danger, the tiefling easily sidesteps and avoids the projectile.
Dec 13, 2016 6:01 am
"I think our best bet is to meet the spearmen in the middle. I'd imagine the archer would just run from us and maintain his distance while peppering us with arrows." Coda starts to slowly head towards the spearmen.
OOC:
Using only 30 feet of Maribel's movement to move towards the spearmen.
Dec 13, 2016 10:25 am
Maenor curses fluently in Elvish, then picks up his shield and moves forward to place himself between Coda and the spearmen. "Stay still, curse you. We can get more shots at them if we hold ground before engaging." He again sets himself behind his shield, with crossbow pointed at the spearmen and shield angled toward the archer. He takes careful aim and prepares to fire as soon as they come into range.
Dec 13, 2016 9:40 pm
Geno forms up with Maenor, steadying his crossbow for the moment the spearmen come within its range. More subtly, and with a blush of shame at his fear, he tries to put himself between Maenor and the archer for cover.
Dec 13, 2016 9:46 pm
Daniel steps up behind Maenor and Geno, preparing his blades for when one of the goblinoids gets close enough.
OOC:
Readying an action to cast Bless once we're able to engage.
Dec 14, 2016 6:50 pm
The spearmen's path never deviates, closing to a distance of 210 feet. The archer's path continues on its flanking maneuver, and another arrow is pulled back when suddenly the bowstring snaps (natural 1 on attack against Coda, lucky halfling)! With a snarl, the archer draws a longsword and seems ready to turn its horse inward towards the party.
OOC:
Maenor's Readied Action applies, roll an attack with the crossbow at disadvantage due to long range. Daniel's Bless spell would also be cast since this would count as engagement.

Kalis still has a turn to take. Currently the rest of the party has moved up to close the distance to the spearmen, and are 30 feet ahead of the sorcerer.
Dec 14, 2016 7:00 pm
Kalis will advance with the others.
Dec 14, 2016 7:59 pm
OOC:
Casting Bless on myself, Maenor, and Geno.
Dec 14, 2016 8:10 pm
OOC:
Right! Forgot that Geno also indicated a Ready Action to fire (at disadvantage due to long range)
Dec 15, 2016 1:32 am
Maenor fires at the closes spearman, then quickly reloads his crossbow for another attack.

Rolls

crossbow to hit - (1d20+6)

(9) + 6 = 15

disadvantage - (1d20+6)

(15) + 6 = 21

damage? - (1d8+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Dec 15, 2016 1:38 am
OOC:
Don't forgot your d4s!
Dec 15, 2016 10:50 am
Blessed!

Rolls

Blessed - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Dec 15, 2016 1:44 pm
The bolt zips through the air and appears to strike the hobgoblin, for the spearman suddenly jerks back in pain and struggles to hold onto the reins. Its charge does not falter, however.
OOC:
Geno still has a readied action.
Dec 15, 2016 2:53 pm
Geno lets the bolt fly.
OOC:
Bless goes on the hit right? In that case I have 19 at Disadvantage... not bad at all. :)
Last edited December 15, 2016 2:54 pm

Rolls

Crossbow - (1d20+6)

(12) + 6 = 18

Crossbow (DADV) - (1d20+6)

(11) + 6 = 17

Damage - (1d8+4)

(5) + 4 = 9

Bless Value - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Dec 15, 2016 4:47 pm
As soon as the wounded spearman rights itself in the saddle, it is immediately knocked off backward by another crossbow bolt. The hobgoblin sails off the horse and falls with a clatter to the ground, unmoving.
OOC:
Player turn! Spearman is 210 feet away and closing. Archer is 450 feet away and starting to approach from a different angle.
Dec 15, 2016 5:27 pm
"New thought here. What are the chances Mr. Friendly over there runs the second we take care of the other spearmen?" Coda gestures over to the archer hobgoblin.
Dec 15, 2016 6:20 pm
"I have another concern... there were only three. Why would they attempt to take us on when they're so obviously outnumbered?" Kalis asks, looking around to ensure that there are no other nasty surprises approaching. He continues moving forward with the others.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Dec 15, 2016 6:33 pm
OOC:
What is it with you people and your rolls?
Kalis' concern is validated as he looks behind the party. 100 feet from the group, in the opposite direction from the spearman, he briefly sees a large shape dart between small scrub, disappearing beneath or behind the plants. It is definitely downwind and moves with near-silence, and appeared to be coming closer.
Dec 15, 2016 6:51 pm
"Outnumbered, yes, but they could just take potshots at us and stay out of range of our weapons."
Dec 15, 2016 6:58 pm
"I don't think so, there's something behind us!" Kalis says urgently to the others, pointing it out for anyone who looks back.
OOC:
Man, that was an awesome roll!
Last edited December 15, 2016 6:58 pm
Dec 15, 2016 7:00 pm
Geno reloads the crossbow and turns to be back to back with Maenor. He looks to see if he can get a clear shot on the threat that Kalis forewarned.
OOC:
Can I get a shot off since Kalis saw what's coming or do I need my own Perception roll first?
Dec 15, 2016 7:03 pm
OOC:
You may still shoot, at disadvantage because of long range. Target is considered to have three-quarters cover.
Dec 15, 2016 7:05 pm
Kalis focuses, feeling the energy build, and releases a bolt of fire into the bush that the creature disappeared into.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d20+5, 1d10)

1d20+5 : (10) + 5 = 15

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

1d10 : (8) = 8

Dec 15, 2016 7:13 pm
OOC:
Kalis does not have disadvantage, since Fire Bolt has no 'long range' penalty. In the spirit of the season, and as a result of the critical success on Perception, I'll use the higher roll.
The fiery bolt disappears into the scrub. There is a loud yelp, and a bugbear leaps into view, patting out its singed fur with a snarl.
Dec 16, 2016 1:28 pm
With the bugbear in his sights, Geno fires another shot.
OOC:
There's the 1 we've been waiting for. T_T
Last edited December 16, 2016 1:28 pm

Rolls

Crossbow - (1d20+6)

(11) + 6 = 17

Crossbow (DADV) - (1d20+6)

(1) + 6 = 7

Bless - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Damage - (1d8+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Dec 16, 2016 3:56 pm
Geno pulls the trigger... and nothing happens. He lowers the crossbow to inspect the mechanism, and suddenly the bolt is released, burying itself into the ground two feet away.
Dec 16, 2016 6:32 pm
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Coda
Daniel
Maenor
Dec 16, 2016 6:35 pm
OOC:
How far away are we from each enemy?
Dec 16, 2016 6:40 pm
OOC:
Spearman is 210 feet away and closing. Archer-now-Longsword is 450 feet away and starting to approach from a different angle. Bugbear is 100 feet away, in the opposite direction of the Spearman.

(not to scale)
Spearman ---- Party -- Bugbear

Longsword
Dec 16, 2016 7:25 pm
With something in range, Coda pulls his headband off, loading it with a sling bullet and spins it in the air above his head. When it has enough momentum, he flicks his wrist and releases it, flinging the bullet towards the bugbear.

Rolls

Sling hit (w/ Disadvantage) - (1d20+6, 1d20+6)

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

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

Damage - (1d4+4)

(1) + 4 = 5

Dec 16, 2016 7:29 pm
Standing plainly in view as it extinguishes the fire, the bugbear's head jerks back as a hard object falls into it from the sky. It grunts, a hand instinctively rubbing at the sore spot.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Maenor
Dec 16, 2016 8:33 pm
OOC:
Anyone can make an Investigation check to see if it's the same bugbear.

Actions left to take:
Maenor
Daniel (Holding)
Dec 16, 2016 8:34 pm
OOC:
Okay, post was deleted or otherwise disappeared.

Actions left to take:
Daniel
Maenor
Dec 16, 2016 8:35 pm
OOC:
Don't know where my post went...
Daniel turns to look towards the bugbear, a dagger ready to be thrown. "Chances that's the one that got away?"

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+3)

(11) + 3 = 14

Dec 17, 2016 4:08 am
Maenor shifts slightly and fires at the remaining spearman.

Rolls

to hit 1 - (1d20+6)

(4) + 6 = 10

with disadvantage - (1d20+6)

(17) + 6 = 23

blessed - (1d4)

(1) = 1

Dec 17, 2016 4:12 am
Kalis takes a look at the approaching bugbear, trying to see if it's the same one as before.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+2)

(12) + 2 = 14

Dec 17, 2016 4:20 am
Coda tries to imagine the bugbear without the newly formed bump.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+2)

(17) + 2 = 19

Dec 17, 2016 6:58 am
This bugbear's fur appears to be a different shade than the one you previously encountered. There is a good chance this is not the one who ran away after you had slain its fellows.

Maenor's bolt ricochets off the spearman's shield, spinning off into the grass.

The hobgoblin spearman continues its charge, closing to 90 feet. The spear itself is leveled like a lance. The archer also charges in on a direct path, though it is still far away at 330 feet.

Now exposed, the bugbear roars and runs towards you, loping across the grassland with a large and wicked-looking morningstar. It closes to 40 feet from the party.
OOC:
Daniel can now throw his dagger, at disadvantage due to long range.
Dec 17, 2016 7:07 am
OOC:
Are the rest of us free to go since the enemy moved or are we after Daniel?
Dec 17, 2016 4:36 pm
OOC:
Daniel has a held action to throw the dagger. However, to move things along, the rest of you are free to post your actions.
Dec 17, 2016 5:52 pm
OOC:
Rolling!

Rolls

Dagger (Disadvantage and Bless) - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d4, 1d4+4)

1d20+6 : (3) + 6 = 9

1d20+6 : (7) + 6 = 13

1d4 : (3) = 3

1d4+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

Dec 17, 2016 5:55 pm
The dagger flutters through the air, end over end on a long lob. The bugbear watches the blade as it approaches, then smacks it aside with its shield.
OOC:
Player turn!

Spearman is 90 feet away, Bugbear is 40 feet away. Archer is 330 feet away.
Dec 17, 2016 6:03 pm
Kalis points a hand at the approaching bugbear, releasing a bolt of fire at the approaching monster.

Rolls

Fire bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (2) = 2

Dec 17, 2016 6:06 pm
The bugbear seems prepared now, interposing its shield between it and Kalis. The fiery missile flashes against the shield, to little effect.
Dec 17, 2016 8:12 pm
"You may not be the same bugbear that ran but you smell just as bad." Coda calls out to the approaching enemy. Then turns to Kalis with a grin "Don't worry, you'll hit 'em next time." and he winks.

Casting Vicious Mockery Wisdom Save DC 14.
OOC:
Bardic Inspiration on Kalis; d6 on one ability check, attack roll, or saving throw.
Edit: My second 1 damage in a row.
Last edited December 17, 2016 8:13 pm

Rolls

VM Damage - (1d4)

(1) = 1

Dec 17, 2016 8:37 pm
Coda's words do not seem to have an effect on the bugbear (Save 18 vs DC 14). Perhaps the bugbear did not hear him, did not understand him, or it simply didn't care.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Geno
Maenor
Dec 18, 2016 12:58 pm
Maenor drops his crossbow, picks up his shield and draws his mace. He stands in a crouch behind his shield, preparing for the approaching spearman, angling his shield and watching for the opportunity to drive the expected strike away from himself and his friends.
Last edited December 18, 2016 7:10 pm
Dec 18, 2016 5:56 pm
OOC:
Maenor, are you planning to Dodge, or Readying an Action? If the latter, what are you going to do and what's the trigger?
Dec 18, 2016 5:57 pm
Geno wraps himself once more in the armor of blue fire, then locks eyes with the ferocious bugbear. A maleficent heat pushes out from Geno's gaze, marking the bugbear as his quarry. His spells unleashed, Geno puts his hand on his shortsword, ready to draw and enter the fray.
OOC:
Armor of Agathys on Geno and Hex on the bugbear. The bugbear will have Disadvantage on Strength checks (but not saves, sadly).
Dec 18, 2016 7:10 pm
OOC:
Dodge...have edited my post to make it more clear.
Dec 18, 2016 7:53 pm
OOC:
Thanks!

Actions left to take:
Daniel
Dec 18, 2016 8:10 pm
Daniel draws the blade out of his cane, adopting a parrying stance.
OOC:
Dodge action!
Dec 18, 2016 8:48 pm
With a thunderous gallop, the spearman speeds past the group. The blade lashes out almost as quickly, but Maenor's well-placed shield deflects the blow (5 vs AC 17). The hobgoblin pulls on the reins as its horse passes, slowing to a stop 30 feet away and preparing to turn around.

The bugbear takes this opportunity to charge in, bellowing a challenge as it nears. It reaches 10 feet away from the party, interposing itself between you and the hobgoblin spearman. With its shield held up, it shifts its weight on its feet and seems ready to take on any attack (Bugbear Dodges, attacks against it have disadvantage).

The swordsman gallops towards the fray and closes to 210 feet.
OOC:
Player Turn!
Dec 18, 2016 9:05 pm
"You can't shield yourself from the fact that you smell." Coda shouts at the bugbear. "They're at your mercy, Geno, get 'em." Coda smiles towards Geno.
OOC:
Vicious Mockery at the dodging bugbear and Bardic inspiration to Geno.

Rolls

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Dec 18, 2016 9:09 pm
Sighing, hoping that he wouldn't have to draw upon his deeper reserves of power, Kalis lets his draconic heritage wash over him with power as he chants a few arcane words and sends a trio of magical darts at hobgoblin spearman.
OOC:
Boom!
Last edited December 18, 2016 9:09 pm

Rolls

Magic Missile - (3d4+3)

(344) + 3 = 14

Dec 18, 2016 9:10 pm
OOC:
Would any of us get opportunity attacks on the hobgoblin?
Dec 18, 2016 9:16 pm
OOC:
That is a very good point! I apologize for missing that fact. You all get an opportunity attack as the hobgoblin rides past, and can target either the rider or the horse.

If this reaction changes your subsequent turn, let me know.
Dec 18, 2016 9:18 pm
OOC:
If their Opportunity Attacks manage to kill the hobgoblin, I'll change my target to the bugbear!
Dec 18, 2016 9:45 pm
Daniel takes a stab at the hobgoblin while it's too busy attacking to worry about the rest of them.
OOC:
Would it trigger Sneak Attack since it was next to Maenor?

Rolls

Rapier + Sneak Attack - (1d20+6, 1d8+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (1) + 6 = 7

1d8+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

1d6 : (5) = 5

Dec 18, 2016 10:03 pm
Daniel's rapier flicks out in an upward strike. However, as the spearman rides past, the point of the blade catches against the spear and is violently twisted away from Daniel's grip. The sword falls to Daniel's feet.
OOC:
Sneak Attack damage would apply, since your allies are close enough.

The rapier can be picked up and used on Daniel's turn. Maenor, Coda, Kalis, and Geno can make an Opportunity Attack.
Dec 18, 2016 10:37 pm
Kalis takes a swing at the hobgoblin as it rides by.
OOC:
EDIT: Boom! Leave it all to the sorcerer :P
Last edited December 18, 2016 10:37 pm

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+3, 1d8+1)

1d20+3 : (20) + 3 = 23

1d8+1 : (6) + 1 = 7

Critical damage - (1d8)

(8) = 8

Dec 18, 2016 10:53 pm
As the hobgoblin rides past, Kalis' swing nearly takes off its head as the quarterstaff comes around to smash into the helmet. The horse continues past, now riderless as the hobgoblin falls to the ground, its body bouncing a few feet from the momentum in unnatural ways.

Coda's voice seem to affect the bugbear this time, giving it pause momentarily as it deciphers the halfling's play on words. This moment is all Kalis needed as his magical bolts zip around the shield to strike the bugbear's chest. With a blurt of surprise, the bugbear spasms under the onslaught, and sinks to its knees before falling face-first into the ground.
OOC:
Only the swordsman is left.

Actions left to take:
Daniel
Geno
Maenor
Dec 18, 2016 11:47 pm
Daniel retrieves his sword and moves behind Maenor, ready to strike should the hobgoblin try another attack. "Let's try to not let this one get away, shall we?"
OOC:
Readying an action to attack when it's in range, and using Maenor as cover.
Dec 20, 2016 2:37 pm
Geno faces the swordsman wreathed in his infernal armor. He fires a blast of eldritch energy at the remaining hobgoblin, hoping to topple him before he closes the distance.

Rolls

Eldritch Blast (To Hit) - (1d20+6)

(20) + 6 = 26

Eldritch Blast (Damage) - (1d10)

(2) = 2

Eldritch Blast (Critical Hit!) - (1d10)

(7) = 7

Dec 20, 2016 3:49 pm
"Indeed. We should catch the horses as well, else they will go home and give us away. They may also carry answers to our many questions." His calm demeanor makes what happens next all the more surprising as he begins running toward the charging swordsman.
OOC:
Dash action: 60 feet
Last edited December 20, 2016 3:49 pm
Dec 20, 2016 4:57 pm
Maenor dashes ahead on a glorious charge toward the mounted swordsman. As the elf and hobgoblin close in on each other, a blast of arcane power pierces the air above Maenor to strike the hobgoblin full in the chest. The sheer impact causes the hobgoblin to lose its sword as it struggles to remain in the saddle and hold the reins.
OOC:
Player turn!

I considered Geno's Eldritch Blast to be a held action, since the hobgoblin was 210 feet away and wouldn't yet be in range. It is now 90 feet from the party, and 30 feet away from Maenor.
Dec 20, 2016 5:01 pm
Ready to end this, Kalis sends a single bolt of fire at the swordsgoblin.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

1d20+5 : (10) + 5 = 15

1d10 : (7) = 7

Dec 20, 2016 5:03 pm
OOC:
Remember your d4s from Bless!
Dec 20, 2016 8:04 pm
CancerMan says:
Maenor dashes ahead on a glorious charge toward the mounted swordsman. As the elf and hobgoblin close in on each other, a blast of arcane power pierces the air above Maenor to strike the hobgoblin full in the chest. The sheer impact causes the hobgoblin to lose its sword as it struggles to remain in the saddle and hold the reins.
OOC:
Player turn!

I considered Geno's Eldritch Blast to be a held action, since the hobgoblin was 210 feet away and wouldn't yet be in range. It is now 90 feet from the party, and 30 feet away from Maenor.
Geno moves 30 ft. forward, ready to unleash the arcane fire.
OOC:
Dang. I didn't realize he was so far away still. Whoops. I think I can fire from 60 ft. though!
Dec 20, 2016 8:10 pm
OOC:
Do I see any of the horses?
Dec 20, 2016 8:33 pm
The sorcerer proves to be the bane of these goblinoids this day, and his blast of fire flings the hobgoblin's lifeless body to the ground.

All three horses are in view. Bereft of riders, they slow to a stop with deep breaths, nearly exhausted after their mile-long run.
OOC:
Combat over!

Also, even though I'm using milestone leveling, you've successfully navigated around many obstacles and roleplayed beautifully. You all advance to level 2!
Dec 20, 2016 8:40 pm
Coda hops off Maribel and gives her a handful of feed and some head rubs. Taking two handfuls of feed, he makes his way over to one of the horses and places one of the handfuls of food about 10 feet away from it and steps back about 10 feet from that and opens the other handful of feed and holds it up in the air.
OOC:
Is it level automatically or after a short/long rest?
Dec 20, 2016 8:46 pm
OOC:
You may apply the level immediately.

Also, make an Animal Handling roll for this particular horse. If anyone else wants to approach the other horses, you may also make Animal Handling rolls.
Dec 20, 2016 8:50 pm
OOC:
If level is immediate, I get Jack of All Trades.

Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+4)

(13) + 4 = 17

Dec 20, 2016 8:57 pm
Daniel goes to retrieve his dagger, flipping it in his hands a few times before returning it to his belt and turning his attention to the bodies.
OOC:
Using whichever is more applicable.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+5)

(8) + 5 = 13

Perception - (1d20+7)

(16) + 7 = 23

Dec 20, 2016 9:00 pm
Kalis lets a deep breath out after the last goblinoid falls. He feels less now that he's released his hold of his draconic power, but forces himself to push the feelings aside. I WILL control this power that I have, I will not let it control me, he thinks to himself.

"Everyone ok?" he asks, looking around at his companions.
Dec 20, 2016 9:02 pm
Kalis approaches a different horse, trying to ease any fear it may have at his presence. It sure would be nice to not have to walk anymore.
OOC:
Can kill EVERYTHING, but can't calm a horse down. Must be that dragon heritage, I guess
Last edited December 20, 2016 9:02 pm

Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Dec 20, 2016 10:21 pm
The horse before Coda doesn't seem interested in the feed right now, but it stands there watching the halfling with some interest. It was the mount for the first hobgoblin that fell, and it breathes heavily, resting from its high exertion. Unfortunately, Kalis approaches the horse of the recently-slain archer, and with adrenaline still high it bucks and trots away to gain some distance from the group.

Daniel inspects the body of the bugbear, the closest creature near his dagger. The bugbear has a poorly-fitted and haphazardly-constructed suit of hide armor. It was armed with a morningstar and a scorched and dented shield remains strapped to its arm. A coin purse containing 12 silver and 5 gold pieces is found on its body.
Dec 20, 2016 10:42 pm
Coda gives the feed he is holding to Maribel, waves his hand and recites a few incantations, then slowly approaches the horse with his hand up. "It's okay," he says, a bit confused, wondering if his spell worked "I wouldn't dream of harming you. I guess food is kind of silly after the run you just did, water would probably be more appreciated." Coda smiles at the horse as he pulls his waterskin out. "It isn't much...probably not enough to quench your thirst..." Coda grins as a thought crosses his mind "But if you come with us, we can find a body of water and we can protect you." he stops about 10 feet from it, and uncorks the waterskin and holds it forward in an offering manner.

Casting Speak with Animals.
Last edited December 20, 2016 10:44 pm
Dec 20, 2016 11:00 pm
The horse regards Coda and the halfling's 'words,' which to the party sound like a halfling making horse noises. Finally, the mare snorts, flaring her nostrils and stamping her hoof.
CancerMan sent a note to HypCo
Dec 20, 2016 11:09 pm
Maenor slows his run to a walk as he sees the last hobgoblin fall. He approaches the final horse slowly, holding out his hand for a sniff and speaking gently in Elvish, "There now, rest easy, today is a day most fortunate. Your cruel masters have fallen and you will be protected and cherished." He silently calls on his goddess to help him understand how to calm the animal.

Rolls

Animal handling (with proficiency from Channel Divinity: Knowledge of Ages) - (1d20+6)

(3) + 6 = 9

Dec 20, 2016 11:13 pm
The third horse seems wary of Maenor. She shakes her head and backs up slightly as the elf approaches, but does not yet bolt.
Dec 20, 2016 11:27 pm
Seeing Coda's example, Maenor pours some water from his waterskin into his hand and stands still, continuing to speak calmly and encouragingly.

Rolls

let's try this again - (1d20+6)

(12) + 6 = 18

Dec 20, 2016 11:29 pm
This time, the horse does not back away, perhaps intrigued by the prospect of water.
CancerMan sent a note to marithyme
Dec 20, 2016 11:31 pm
Maenor steps slowly forward, allowing the water to fall through his hand, then presents it to the horse to sniff, while he gently strokes her neck.
OOC:
Is the nearby hobgoblin wearing a cloak, or any other form of fabric that would be easy to remove?
Last edited December 20, 2016 11:32 pm
Dec 20, 2016 11:32 pm
OOC:
Okay, wasn't sure how Speak with Animals worked and that the party wouldn't understand me.
"We can rest here for a bit, to let you catch your breath and maybe you can help round up your friends as well. My friends look like they could use some help." Coda points to the other horses "I'm afraid my waterskin is too small for you to properly drink from and have enough for all three of you. I can however pour it on your backs to help you cool off while you lay down, if you want me to."
Last edited December 20, 2016 11:47 pm
Dec 20, 2016 11:44 pm
The mare near Coda remains still, breathing heavily. She neighs loudly, tipping her head up to amplify the sound.

The other horses, all mares, stand where they are, ears forward after the first mare neighs. They approach to herd together, still a tad wary, but not as skittish and before.
OOC:
Eh, that's how I think of Speak with Animals. You don't have to hide your statements from the party, but I plan to conceal the animal's responses to those that would understand.
Dec 21, 2016 12:00 am
Maenor looks impressed at the halfling's skill. "I believe they need to walk to cool down so that they do not get injured. Would you be able to persuade the lead mare to do so? Then we can rub them down."
Dec 21, 2016 12:14 am
Coda turns to Maenor "Why not rub them down here? We took care of the threat and we know it is safe, for at least a little while. I'm sure laying down is more comfortable than walking but this isn't my decision to make." he smiles to Maenor and turns back to the horse "What do you prefer? Rest here for a bit for a little water bath cooling or walk and search for a pound?"
Dec 21, 2016 11:24 am
While Coda converses with the herd, Maenor returns to the body of the hobgoblin with the bow and searches it for anything useful.
Dec 21, 2016 4:17 pm
From searching the hobgoblins, you acquire three suits of chainmail sized for a human, two spears, three longswords, and 18 arrows. The longbow's string has snapped, but such can be replaced if one had the appropriate materials. Aside from a bit of padded clothes underneath the armor, none of the hobgoblins had anything else like a cloak or robe. A total of 43 silver and 15 gold is collected.

One of the hobgoblins has a map with the same features as the one you've already collected. There is also a letter, written in the same language as one of the other letters you acquired. Comparing the two letters leads you to believe their statements are also alike.

The saddlebags on the horses contain some rudimentary camping gear, including tinderboxes, waterskins, and dry rations. A bedroll sits behind each saddle.
CancerMan sent a note to HypCo
Dec 21, 2016 5:09 pm
Daniel takes the gold and the morningstar, tying his blindfold back around his head when he's finished. "Well hopefully that's the last we'll see of them."
Dec 21, 2016 8:17 pm
"Very well, rest and water." Coda smiles and turns to the group "A decision has been made, we search for water." he walks back to Maribel and gives her a few pets "How are you doing?"
Dec 21, 2016 8:23 pm
CancerMan sent a note to HypCo
Dec 21, 2016 8:58 pm
Coda nods "That's good and how do you feel about being with us. I don't want you to feel trapped and obliged to stay with us for whatever reason. Your freedom is yours and it has been since we met and I want you to know that now."
Last edited December 21, 2016 8:58 pm
Dec 21, 2016 10:13 pm
CancerMan sent a note to HypCo
Dec 22, 2016 1:34 am
"I mean, yeah, your life is yours now. No stables or saddles, you can be out in the wild, naked and grazin' on the grass all day if you so wish. If you don't wish to be with us, you are free to go, that isn't saying I don't enjoy your company though. The point I'm trying to make is that I don't own you, you are your own creature. I mean, do you even like the name Maribel?"
Dec 22, 2016 2:27 am
Maribel lets out a small bray, and remains where she is to graze on some grass.
CancerMan sent a note to HypCo
Dec 22, 2016 3:33 am
Coda smiles and rubs Maribel's neck "As long as you're happy." he gives pause for a second "Since I can only understand you through magical means, if you should ever want to talk, lift your right leg up and nudge me."
OOC:
Ready when the rest are.
Dec 22, 2016 4:27 am
"Were you... were you just talking to that horse?"
Dec 22, 2016 5:06 am
"Aye," Coda smiles "The voiceless need a voice and I am their vessel." he chuckles a bit.
Dec 22, 2016 12:45 pm
Geno gives him a blank stare, as if talking to a horse was the strangest thing he's seen on this journey so far.
Dec 22, 2016 4:30 pm
It takes time to settle the horses and cool them down after their long gallop, before you can give them water and feed. The horses are healthy and apparently well-kept while in custody of the hobgoblins; likely the militant goblinoids recognize the value of these mounts.

While you wait, you gather what you desire from the bodies of the goblinoids. By now, the sun has reached its apex as you feel ready to resume travel.
OOC:
Consider this time spent as a short rest. You may use any number of Hit Dice to recover hit points, or recover any applicable abilities.

It is up to you how you divvy up the spoils of battle, or who will track what they've found. For those who wish to claim one of the three horses, here are their stats:

Riding Horse
Large beast, unaligned
AC: 10; HP 22; Speed 60 ft.
STR 16 (+3); DEX 10 (+0); CON 12 (+1); INT 2 (-4); WIS 11 (+0); CHA 7 (-2)
Senses: Passive Perception 10
Hooves. Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 2d4+3 bludgeoning damage.
Dec 22, 2016 7:10 pm
OOC:
To recap, you are located at the yellow star on this map. What does the party wish to do, or where do you wish to go at this point?
https://dl.dropbox.com/s/2zs87m1y4uhjob4/ROSE_01_Hobgoblin_Map_4.jpg
Dec 22, 2016 7:24 pm
OOC:
I think our plan was to avoid the upcoming tower.

Note to self: remove 1 hit die and recover rolled amount.
Last edited December 23, 2016 3:59 am

Rolls

Hit dice/ song of rest - (1d8+3, 1d6)

1d8+3 : (3) + 3 = 6

1d6 : (3) = 3

Dec 23, 2016 2:30 pm
OOC:
Where is our destination relative to that spot that the moment? I also recall wanting to avoid the tower.
Dec 23, 2016 4:15 pm
OOC:
You are at the yellow star, and your destination is the red circle.
https://dl.dropbox.com/s/x61e110vcqp2ffr/ROSE_01_Caravan_Map_1.png
Dec 23, 2016 5:23 pm
"So... we head north off the road and avoid any further tower encounters?"
Dec 23, 2016 5:45 pm
"Sounds like our only real choice if we want to avoid a fight at the tower," Kalis agrees, eyes flicking toward one of the horses, tempted to try his luck riding (though he's never ridden before).
Dec 23, 2016 10:42 pm
Maenor frowns slightly. "I know we must focus on our mission, but it troubles me that other travelers will be waylaid by these ruffians. Perhaps we could come back and deal with them afterward?"
Dec 23, 2016 11:25 pm
"I guess that would be up to Rhiann, right? We could certainly ask," Kalis says, not too keen on leaving these brigands free to harass people either.
Dec 24, 2016 3:54 pm
Geno's face tightens. "Remember there will be no justice anywhere if we can't help those like Rhiann complete their objectives. If we are killed in a petty squabble, then there are fewer to fight the real battles."
Dec 24, 2016 4:44 pm
Maenor bows his head. "You speak wisdom, my friend. It chafes betimes, but I know my duty is to the world, not to any individual."
Dec 27, 2016 2:17 am
Laden with extra equipment and three horses, you continue northwest across the grasslands. You avoid the locations marked on the hobgoblin's map and follow the trail, keeping away from the well-traveled path.

You have been rolling along the small hills and plains for nearly a week, and have reached a point in the path where it turn south to avoid a section of the desert of the Trackless Barren, skirting the edge of the Dreaming Forest. It is also the point where the hobgoblin's map ends, leaving you with only your general knowledge of the area.

Your group has been on the road for over a month. The merchant caravan would have already left, and hopefully you will make the rendezvous on time.
OOC:
Decide amongst yourselves who is riding the horses and who is not. You have reached the point marked by the yellow star, and can either continue to follow the trail or cut eastward across the desert to make yourself a shortcut.

What will you do?
https://dl.dropbox.com/s/o4g7wjwhdo4q4vm/ROSE_01_Caravan_Map_2.png
Dec 27, 2016 3:48 pm
Geno walks alongside the horse riders, happy to allow others the privilege of a ride. As the desert shimmers in the distance, he muses aloud.

"I see no reason to make this journey more difficult. It seems that the road will lead us to our destination on time, so it makes little sense to suffer in the dry and heat."
Dec 27, 2016 4:09 pm
"I agree, the journey is going to be hard enough without trying to take shortcuts," Kalis says from atop his horse, shifting uncomfortably. The knights in tales never mentioned saddle sores... he thinks to himself.
OOC:
Taking a horse if no one cares, Kalis is unused to walking so much
Dec 27, 2016 10:32 pm
Coda lays on his stomach atop of Maribel, petting her sides as she walks "You know, the road hasn't been exactly an easy stroll. However, I am in agreeance that remaining on the road is still the best course, as the desert lacks things we need for the horses."
OOC:
Were Maenor and I not allowed to doubled up on a horse? Coda is only 40 pounds and a couple inches below 3 feet.
Dec 27, 2016 10:38 pm
OOC:
Deciding who rides and who doesn't is up to the group.
Dec 27, 2016 11:39 pm
"You know, Geno, you don't need to walk, I don't take up much room; I can easily ride with one of you to free up a mount." Coda sits up slightly and looks towards Geno with a smile.
Dec 29, 2016 4:11 am
Daniel slings his cane over his back and mounts one of the horses.
Dec 29, 2016 8:16 pm
HypCo says:
"You know, Geno, you don't need to walk, I don't take up much room; I can easily ride with one of you to free up a mount." Coda sits up slightly and looks towards Geno with a smile.
Geno gives a slight grimace.

"Thank you Coda. I appreciate it. I... I've just spent enough time looking down on the world from a comfortable place."

He tries to smile genuinely, but it comes off strained.
Dec 29, 2016 8:39 pm
The party follows the road southward, sharing the benefits of riding and walking evenly. It takes some time, but the inexperienced among you become novice riders and manage to keep your horses healthy and capable.

The tall trees of the Dreaming Forest grow thick and close, almost as if forming a barrier of dense wood and brush. You keep the forest to your west and make progress for another week, before the road begins to turn back northward. You cross the plain and soon come to the Tenby Woods, another swath of dense forest that lies on the eastern side of the path. Here, too, the Trackless Barren struggles to find purchase amidst the woodland, fingers of parched and dry earth encroaching onto the lush plain.

After traveling for another week, you are close to the rendezvous point. By your calculations, you are perhaps a day late from the expected meet-up, but this delay should not pose much concern given the nature of overland travel. Admittedly, the time spent detouring around the obstacles along the Giyne Veldt set you back, but you've made up much of that time thanks to expedient travel and obtaining horses.

The rendezvous should take place over the next rise.
OOC:
Everyone may make a Perception check
Dec 29, 2016 8:49 pm
OOC:

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+7)

(12) + 7 = 19

Dec 29, 2016 8:58 pm
Kalis attempts to not be lulled into complacency by the lack of trouble in the latter part of their trip, keeping a close eye out for anything amiss.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(16) + 4 = 20

Dec 29, 2016 9:27 pm
Maenor heightens his alertness as they near their destination.
Last edited December 29, 2016 9:28 pm

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+6)

(15) + 6 = 21

Dec 29, 2016 10:05 pm
OOC:
Jeez, bunch of high rollers.
I continue the high party.
Last edited December 29, 2016 10:06 pm

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+5)

(14) + 5 = 19

Dec 30, 2016 4:17 pm
As you crest the rise, you find yourselves overlooking a wide swath of grassland splitting the dense forest of the Tenby Woods and the drier reaches of the Trackless Barren. The road seems to abut against the Barren more than it skirts the Woods, but the ground is flat and free of obstruction.

You notice, far off on the horizon, a flock of large dark shapes circling above an area beyond your current sight. Their flight pattern indicates a lazy glide upon thermals, and there are at least a dozen of them. You estimate they are about a three-hour ride away at normal speed.

You also notice that the rendezvous point below you is devoid of anyone; the merchant caravan is not there.
Dec 30, 2016 4:48 pm
"We can't have missed them, can we? Have they been waylaid?"
Dec 30, 2016 4:50 pm
Maenor points to the circling creatures. "I worry that they have."
Jan 3, 2017 5:23 pm
"Only one way to find out, I guess," Kalis says, "Shall we go take a look?"
Jan 4, 2017 12:02 am
Spurring your horses forward, while others on foot increase their pace to keep up, you hasten along the road. As you descend into the flats, you keep your eyes on the flock, watching as at times a number of them descend and disappear beneath the rise in the distance. After a while, they return to the sky, perhaps driven from their landing. As you approach closer, you can tell that the creatures in the sky are ravens, and you can hear their cawing.

You crest the rise, and behold a scene of destructive ruin. 200 feet away, four broken wagons lie smashed in a brief semi-circle convex towards the forest. In front of two of the wagons you can see some oxen, slain by arrows, bloated and covered with ravens and larger scavenger birds. Scattered both around and away from the wagons are several humanoid bodies, some dressed in robes or traveling clothes, while others appear clad in common attire. Ravens cluster around these, too.

Aside from the birds, there is activity amidst the wreckage. A dozen small shapes can be seen picking through the wood and canvas, scattering the birds as they work, hefting pieces of splintered wood for inspection or poking in the dirt with sticks. Each individual wears a mish-mash of rags and animal hides. They are humanoid and walk upright, but some appear hunched with pronounced lumps upon their backs. All are short and lean, and have long and pointed ears, with squashed and hooked noses set between red eyes.

Goblins.
Jan 4, 2017 3:38 am
OOC:
Have the goblins seen us?
Jan 4, 2017 7:44 am
The blindfolded Daniel is unable to tell if the party has been spotted by the goblins, but the others can see that, for now, the goblins are too preoccupied with their work.
Jan 5, 2017 12:43 am
Maenor turns to his companions. "Tell me we are not going to let these vermin pick over the bones of those we were supposed to protect."
Jan 5, 2017 1:24 am
"No, but I think we should try to get answers from them before killing them. For all we know, they could just be scavengers and the real cause of this is days away already."
Jan 5, 2017 4:31 pm
"We should take precautions, but make no judgments. After all, any enemy of the dragons may be a friends."
Jan 5, 2017 4:36 pm
"Well, let's get down there and clean up. Try to take some captives if possible," Kalis says, eyes taking on a yellowish tint at his dragon blood grants him power.
Jan 5, 2017 4:58 pm
While the damaged and destroyed wagons are 200 feet away, there are a few bodies that are closer, perhaps 120 feet at the nearest. These bodies are covered in ravens and other birds, and seem to be ignored by the goblins who are all poking around the wreckage.
OOC:
Feel free to describe your actions. At the moment, it appears no one has noticed your arrival.
Jan 7, 2017 9:22 pm
Daniel dismounts and steps forward. "Who's got the bow, I say we take potshots at them while we have the range advantage."
Jan 7, 2017 10:08 pm
Maenor shakes his head sadly, "The string is snapped, and I don't have a replacement. I could use my crossbow, but it's a long shot."
Jan 8, 2017 1:17 pm
Geno struggles to keep a contemptuous look off of his face. "There's no need to fire on them just yet. Perhaps they are not our foes."

Geno begins walking toward the wreckage slowly, ensuring his companions are not to far behind.

When he is closer he yells out "You there! Might we ask a few of you some questions?"
Last edited January 9, 2017 4:35 pm
Jan 8, 2017 11:40 pm
Coda walks alongside Geno, leaving Maribel with the party.
Jan 9, 2017 12:04 am
Maenor stays on his horse and shakes his head. He rides a wide circle around the goblins to the far side, but makes no hostile moves.
Jan 9, 2017 5:49 pm
OOC:
Maenor, which way are you riding? Toward the forest, or the desert?
Jan 10, 2017 2:01 am
OOC:
scary question...desert
Jan 10, 2017 3:44 am
Kalis remains about twenty feet behind Geno and Coda, ready to release his magic at the slightest provocation from the goblins.
Jan 10, 2017 6:12 am
As most of the party steps forward, the goblins seem too preoccupied with the wreckage to take notice of you. Geno, Coda, and Kalis are now able to determine that the hunched goblins are actually carrying tiny goblin toddlers, swathed in rags upon their backs.

There is one goblin with white hair, standing to the side and watching over the group. On occasion, they point with their short staff at the wreckage and say something in a harsh, guttural language. This is followed by one of the other goblins moving where indicated and digging through the pieces of wagon.

Geno's call freezes the goblins momentarily. They all turn and look towards the tiefling. There is a brief squeal, a shriek, and the mob begin to scramble about in a panic. You see the white-haired goblin shout at the others, waving their staff and pointing to the desert. Most of the goblins drop what they've collected and begin a mad dash into the wasteland... and panic once again now that they see a mounted elf with what looks like a longbow nearly cutting off their route.
Jan 10, 2017 10:15 am
"You don't need to run, we don't want to harm you. We only wish to speak with you, running will only cause problems for everyone. Think of the kids with you, if you run the others will see you as guilty. Please, don't do this." Coda calls out, mostly directed to the white haired one.
Jan 10, 2017 4:43 pm
OOC:
Make a Persuasion check, Coda.
Jan 10, 2017 5:01 pm
"We mean no harm. All we want to is to learn about this caravan and what happened to it. Can you help us with that?"
OOC:
Aiding Coda on Persuasion, if possible.
Jan 10, 2017 5:09 pm
OOC:
Sure, Coda can make the check with Advantage.
Jan 10, 2017 11:19 pm
OOC:
Roll

Rolls

Persuasion (Advantage) - (1d20+6, 1d20+6)

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

1d20+6 : (19) + 6 = 25

Jan 11, 2017 1:01 am
The white-haired goblin waddles over to the scattered group; you can see that perhaps one leg is shorter than the other. They wave their arms and staff as they call out in a string of gibberish, trying to get the attention of the others while gesturing signs of calm. While it is unclear what exactly was spoken, it seems the goblins have ceased their mad panic. They remain where they are, crouched low with eyes darting about your group, seemingly ready to bolt at the slightest provocation. Some goblins have thin branches from brambles that they wield like clubs, though anyone can plainly see it's more like a demonstration of force than it is an effective weapon.

There is a tense moment before the white-haired one turns slowly to face you. They hold their staff in one hand and while they do not exhibit the wild nervousness of their kin, their eyes definitely show an acute wariness. They stand there, waiting.
Jan 11, 2017 1:08 am
"Do any of us even speak goblin?"
Jan 11, 2017 1:12 am
OOC:
Alas, no. Maenor speaks seven other languages, but not that one.
Jan 11, 2017 1:19 am
Coda takes a seat and gestures in front of him to the white-haired goblin, regardless if the goblin sits or not, Coda starts to rub his legs. "Thank you. You wouldn't happen to speak common, would you?" he says with a smile.
Jan 11, 2017 6:16 am
The white-haired goblin watches Coda as the halfling sits on the ground. They do not move to mimic the gesture, but they do not move away, either. Instead, they glance at Geno, back to Coda, and simply say, "Yes."
Jan 11, 2017 6:38 am
Coda looks to where the goblin glances, seeing Geno, he turns back to the goblin and smiles again. "Don't let his looks frighten you, along with me, he was the only one that didn't want to attack you outright. You wouldn't happen to know what happened here, would you?"
Jan 11, 2017 7:18 am
The white-haired goblin listens to Coda, then turns their attention to Kalis, Daniel, and Maenor. They slowly hold their hand out back towards the group of other goblins and makes a "get back" motion. The other goblins oblige, tentatively, each one watching you as they gingerly take a step backward away from your direction.

"Yes," says the white-haired one, the only one having not moved from their spot.
Jan 11, 2017 8:13 am
"Your actions aren't giving me a lot of confidence in my decision. I ask you to call back your group, the others in mine may see it as an act of aggression or guilt. Our trip to this location was dangerous at best and when we get here, we see ruin. As you can maybe tell, emotions are high, we..." Coda motions between himself and Geno "We don't want to hurt you, I'm tired, I don't want this to go how you're thinking it may and it doesn't have to. I would appreciate some show of trust from you to ease my mind. What happened here?"
Jan 11, 2017 1:05 pm
To follow along with Coda's words, Geno unbuckles his sword sheathe, places it on the ground behind him, and walks a bit forward. Not closing the gap, but distancing himself from his weapon.
Jan 11, 2017 4:31 pm
The white-haired goblin remains where they are, though they watch Geno's actions very carefully. With narrowed eyes, they study the tiefling, glance over to Kalis and Daniel, spare a look at Maenor, and seems to come to some conclusion. They return their gaze to Coda.

"I will not call back my people," they say, almost eloquently in a tenor that lacks the harshness of the goblin language. There is a cadence to their words that belies a higher intelligence than most goblins are presumed to have. "Our conversation does not depend on their presence. They will leave, and you and your companions will let them leave unharmed. In return, I will stay and answer your questions."

They wait to hear your response.
Jan 12, 2017 8:54 am
"I don't think you are aware of the situation on our hands right now. We had the option to easily ambush you, Geno and I were able to talk the rest down to have a conversation with you. Personally, I don't care what your people do and if it was up to me they'd be free to go, however, it is not up to me. My people they have their own opinions on this situation, I don't control them, I can't promise your people's safety if they start to run off. You're their leader, they look to you for guidance, don't send them off into uncertainty." Coda stretches out his legs before tucking them in and resting his arms on his knees "You haven't been very trustworthy with me, you've avoided my question twice, speaking in different tongue." Coda turns to Geno
[ +- ] Halfling
he faces back to the goblin "See it's shiesty, isn't it? Now, i'll ask a third time. What happened here?"
Jan 12, 2017 4:21 pm
"You've asked your question and I will answer, but not under these conditions," says the white-haired goblin. They frown. "You ask for trust, then tell me that the act of my people leaving is considered 'aggression?' You call for leadership, to have me put my people in your hands, yet you are not leader of your own group and 'can't make promises?'

"Perhaps, as you've said, I 'haven't been very trustworthy,' and while your actions thus far have earned you this discussion, I haven't seen anything else from you worth trusting."


The goblin straightens, as best they can against their staff. Their chin lifts in an expression of resolve. "I promised you my cooperation. My people will leave. Whatever your leader decides to make of it will demonstrate how much he desires the answer to your question."
Jan 12, 2017 4:53 pm
Geno whispers to Coda, "We gain little if they stay. I'm hardly worried about reprisal if we treat them with civility. Let us simply ask our queries of the willing party and be done with it. The longer we are here, the more I worry about those who traveled with the caravan."
Jan 13, 2017 6:28 am
"What conditions? Your people are alive, I think that is a prime condition, that is more than our other encounters can say. So why send them away when they are safe where they are? If you want to send them away, do it, it makes no difference to me. I told you what could happen, if you choose to ignore my warnings and something does happen, their blood will be on your hands not ours." Coda turns to Geno "And I care little if they go, I simply wish to have no casualties on either sides." he turns back to the goblin "We just want to know what happened here. The vibe I'm getting from your decisions, is making me think you had something to do with this destruction. I have no desire to kill women or children, but I don't know if the others share my beliefs, so your people are safest near us."
Jan 13, 2017 10:01 am
Seeing the tiny goblin children strikes some pity in Maenor's heart. While he despises all of goblinkind, he despises people who bully innocents even more. He dismounts and walks his horse over to his comrades, calling out, "Let them go. As a show of good faith. This man clearly will not speak until they do, and I don't think any of us are the type of men who would kill babies to get someone to talk."
Jan 13, 2017 1:46 pm
Kalis, standing not far away speaks, "Send your people to wherever you'd like, they need not fear danger from me, or any of us, I think."
Jan 13, 2017 4:33 pm
The white-haired goblin looks to each person as they speak, wheels clicking in their head as they try to decipher the group's intentions. Finally, they turn and gently lifts their hand to call attention from the other goblins. They calmly speak a few words, perhaps some instructions given the nature and context. They touch a hand to their chest and speaks again, then makes a 'go forth' gesture.

One of the goblins steps forward and barks a statement, or a question (it's hard to tell with Goblin). They seem to not agree with what the white-haired goblin said. Another goblin reaches forward to pull the first back, as though guiding them away. The other goblins gingerly back away, with those furthest from the party turning to walk into the desert.

The white-haired goblin says a few more words. Though guttural and raspy, these words seem to give comfort to the hesitant goblin, who joins the others as they depart. The white-haired one leans on their staff as they watch them go.
OOC:
Do any of you do anything?
Jan 13, 2017 4:47 pm
Maenor does not intervene.
Jan 13, 2017 6:39 pm
Geno turns to the white-haired one. "Your people are noble. There are plenty of forces that plague this land that would be happy to turn their strength in numbers into a wealth of plunder. Simple civility... we've noticed in our journey... is not so simple. You'll have to forgive us for us jitters, with that considered."
Jan 14, 2017 4:04 am
Kalis watches the goblins leave out of the corner of his eye, but makes no move to stop them (as promised).
Jan 14, 2017 4:51 am
Coda stares at the white-haired goblin as the rest leave.
Jan 14, 2017 6:51 am
The goblins disappear into the desert. The white-haired goblin turns to face your group again, and points to a nearby wagon with their staff. "This is the work of dog-men and their underlings," they say, with a heavy sigh. "It is not the first group of travelers that have been attacked here. Much of whatever would be valuable to men such as you has already been taken by them, but you are free to see that for yourselves."
Jan 15, 2017 12:02 am
Coda turns to his party "Perhaps it was the dog-men we encountered on our way here. One second." he holds his finger up and walks over to Maribel, pulling out the two letters and map. He walks back over to the goblin and lays the items before him "You wouldn't be able to tell us about these, would you?"
Jan 15, 2017 2:20 am
The white-haired goblin reaches down to pick up the documents. You can see their eyes scanning the words on the letters. Finally they look back up at you. "This letter reads,
Quote:
Guarg's advances into our territory will not be tolerated. The takeover of several waypoints along the merchant trail is an act of aggression that is undoubtedly a precursor to an invasion. For now, observe their activity and make note of their movements. Reports are expected daily.

Vulzal
"The second letter says,
Quote:
Vrard,

I know you have been in contact with the orc's men at the western checkpoint. You are ordered to maintain this arrangement and report back with everything you have discovered. Do this, and I will look favorably upon this otherwise treasonous act.

Vulzal
"This map, however. I am not familiar with the area it describes. These markings are labeled as outposts, with a main camp up north. The two towers are marked as checkpoints."


The goblin holds the letters and map out, returning them to Coda.
Jan 15, 2017 6:01 am
"Do you recognize any of the names on the letters or if they are the dog-men?
Jan 15, 2017 6:50 am
The white-haired goblin shakes their head. "I do not know these names. I can tell you that those were written in Goblin. In my experience, the dog-men do not speak it."
Jan 15, 2017 7:20 am
Coda scratches his beard "That means our previous encounters with hostiles weren't them. What has your experience with them been?"
OOC:
If anyone else has any questions, feel free to jump in, don't let me hog the spotlight.
Last edited January 15, 2017 7:20 am
Jan 15, 2017 7:26 am
The goblin tilts their head, as though considering whether or not to answer. "Raiders and murderers for their dark masters," they finally say. "We avoid them as much as we can, as they hunt us for sport. But they prefer better prey." They point to a broken wagon with their staff as an example.
Jan 17, 2017 6:17 pm
"They ambush and attack caravans. Those that resist are slain," the goblin continues, nodding toward the bodies. "The rest are taken prisoner, along with their spoils. This was perhaps their best raid, for there were twelve wagons."
Jan 17, 2017 11:54 pm
Maenor frowns and asks, "Which direction do they take the prisoners? And what by the heavens are 'dog men'?"
Jan 18, 2017 12:12 am
"Into the desert," answers the goblin. "As to your other question, I know not what they may be called by elves or men. They look like dogs that walk on two legs.

"If you are satisfied with these answers, I will leave you be."
They wait, ready to depart, for your dismissal.
Jan 18, 2017 12:20 am
OOC:
Is there something I could roll to figure out what he means by dog men?
Jan 18, 2017 12:35 am
OOC:
You can roll Nature.
Jan 18, 2017 12:42 am
"I can't think of any others." Coda says as he stands and extends a hand towards the goblin "I appreciate your time and want to apologize for my suspicions, hopefully you understand why I had them and can forgive me."

Rolls

Dog-Men - (1d20+2)

(13) + 2 = 15

Jan 18, 2017 12:42 am
"I can't think of any others." Coda says as he stands and extends a hand towards the goblin "I appreciate your time and want to apologize for my suspicions, hopefully you understand why I had them and can forgive me."
OOC:
Sorry, mouse likes to double click with the slightest press, delete this either.
My roll should be +3 as well, forgot about Jack of all trades.
Last edited January 18, 2017 12:45 am

Rolls

Dog-Men - (1d20+2)

(10) + 2 = 12

Jan 18, 2017 12:47 am
Daniel is sitting some distance away with his cane over his shoulder, mumbling something after he hears talk of dog men.
OOC:
Guidance!

Rolls

Nature - (1d20+3, 1d4)

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

1d4 : (2) = 2

Jan 18, 2017 1:16 am
Kalis tries to think of if he's read anything about dog-men...

Rolls

Nature - (1d20+2)

(7) + 2 = 9

Jan 18, 2017 6:32 am
For Coda and Daniel, the description of dog-men calls to mind lycanthropes and shapeshifters, where stories of such beings depict them as beasts that walk upright. Either that, or gnolls, who are more hyena-like but do have some similarities.
Jan 18, 2017 9:52 am
"You have granted us knowledge, little man, I believe to the best of your ability. I...thank you for that." Maenor seems to struggle with this last part, reluctant to praise a race he despises. He turns to his comrades. "We should treat him with honor and let him go."
Jan 18, 2017 6:21 pm
The white-haired goblin almost starts to shy away from the extended hand, eyeing Coda and Maenor for a moment. They seem to come to a conclusion, and gingerly clasp the halfling's hand.

The goblin studies all of you, mulling things over in contemplation. Finally, they hesitantly ask, "What... will you do now?"
Jan 18, 2017 11:14 pm
Coda smiles as he shakes the goblin's hand, releasing it after a few hearty shakes "See if anything remains of what we came here for, if not, probably go after these Dog-Men you spoke of." he strokes his beard with a smile before something clicks in his head "If you are asking about your fate, you are free to return to your people."
OOC:
Can I insight check him? It might be a little late but to check if he was truthful about the Dog-Men being the cause of this. If it is too late then use the roll for his demeanor or something.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Jan 19, 2017 12:03 am
The white-haired goblin does not appear deceptive in their mention of "dog-men." Coda figures that the goblin's initial defensiveness might have been borne out of a need to ensure the safety of their people, since they seem more engaged now that they are alone. Coda definitely gets the sense that the white-haired goblin is studying the demeanor of the party at this very moment.

"I see," they say, concluding something based on Coda's statement. "You were expecting these wagons?"

They squint at you, thoughtfully. "Hm... yes, perhaps."
Jan 19, 2017 12:17 am
Maenor starts, his eyes going wide, but stays silent.
Jan 19, 2017 2:09 am
"We were tasked to guard a wagon, so I'm sure you can see our predicament." Coda smiles, although there is a sense of sadness to it "Perhaps?"
Jan 19, 2017 6:16 am
"You bear the garb of adventurers, yes? You are... capable?" asks the goblin. "You might actually succeed in defeating the dog-men and their master. Yet if you fail, it will undoubtedly come back to me and my people..." The white-haired one shows obvious hesitation as they perform numerous mental calculations.
Jan 19, 2017 8:16 am
"I think we've done rather well for ourselves on the journey here but I also don't want to put your people in danger. What are your thoughts?" Coda addresses the goblin with a cocked eyebrow.
Jan 19, 2017 9:42 am
Maenor speaks gently, "If you have information that could aid us, you improve the chances we will defeat them. It sounds to me like that is both of our best interests."
Jan 19, 2017 4:14 pm
"I know where they lair," says the white-haired goblin. "But I will not guide your journey only for you to be captured and made to reveal who helped you. As capable as you may be, if you are taken prisoner you stand no chance of resisting the will of their master.

"Perhaps a test? Yes, if you prove yourselves against the unseemly one, you would do much to ease my misgivings. What say you?"
Jan 19, 2017 4:21 pm
Kalis sits back, content to allow Maenor and Coda to negotiate the terms of their test.
Jan 19, 2017 7:10 pm
"I think we are up to any test put before us. After all, it has been test after test to even reach this point."
Jan 21, 2017 7:12 am
The white-haired goblin nods, though it still seems to second-guess itself. After a long moment, it says, "Very well.

"There is a tomb. Deep within the woods to the southeast of us."
It points to the close-knit wall of trees nearby. "There is a foul and unnatural creature there. Destroy it, and I will lead you to the dog-men."
Jan 21, 2017 10:29 am
Maenor stands straight, smiling for the first time. It is easy to see he approves of this task.
Jan 23, 2017 9:35 am
"Where do we find you after the task has been completed?" Coda smiles reassuringly to the goblin.
Jan 23, 2017 3:59 pm
The white-haired goblin leans on its staff. "I will take you to the tomb, and wait for you there," it says. "You will do this, then?"
Jan 23, 2017 8:26 pm
"Seems like our only option that doesn't completely screw over the other party. Lead the way."
Jan 23, 2017 8:33 pm
"Sounds reasonable to me," Kalis agrees.
Jan 23, 2017 8:58 pm
The white-haired goblin nods. "Very well," it says, and turns to lead you into the trees.

Before you reach the trees, you pass a few bodies, scaring away the crows. It is easy to see that these men were slain by blade and bow. However, some bodies appear relatively untouched save for a clean slash across their throats, as though they offered no resistance where they stood. These corpses appear lightly dressed for wilderness travel, retaining only thin shirts with cushion at the shoulders and trousers padded at the hips.
Jan 24, 2017 10:02 am
OOC:
Like the kind people would wear under armor?
Jan 24, 2017 3:54 pm
OOC:
Very much so.
Jan 24, 2017 9:20 pm
Maenor remarks to his companions, "Looks like these 'dogmen' are arming themselves."
Jan 24, 2017 11:15 pm
"Arming themselves for what though." Coda addresses the goblin "Are you sure we have time for this task?"
Jan 25, 2017 5:47 am
The white-haired goblin stops, turning to you all. "I do not know," it says. "If you would rather search for the dog-men and your wagon, I will not force you down this path." It waits for the cue to stop, or to continue.
Jan 25, 2017 9:56 am
Maenor shakes his head. "They already have the armor; speed will not aid us now. Besides, we are likely to find them faster with his help, even with the task. We told him we would help him; we should keep our word."
Jan 25, 2017 10:46 am
"I was only thinking of your people, you said they've gone after you before and thought maybe they'd be arming up for a raid on your village. If you are not worried then we will continue with your task."
Jan 25, 2017 1:46 pm
"Yes, this seems like the fastest course of action. Certainly better than fumbling around the desert, looking for traces of them. And if we can take out another evil creature in the course of our side-trek here, all the better," Kalis says, beginning to feel more confident in the wild than he did before.
Jan 25, 2017 4:19 pm
The goblin looks at you all, then nods. It returns to the path and leads you deeper into the woods.

The forest is dense, thick with undergrowth and twisting trunks that grow close together. The canopy shuts out most of the sunlight and casts dark shadows through every branch and bough. The goblin leads you on a relatively direct path, its small size allowing it to squeeze under fallen logs and through narrow nests of roots and foliage. Coda himself finds little difficulty in keeping up, but the rest of you are often delayed in navigating around these pathways.

You have been traveling for several hours, and the forest begins to encroach into your personal space. The air becomes thick, as though time itself had been arrested and left to fester. There is a hint of peat, but a dank acidic taste overpowers the natural scent of the forest to create an odd and repulsive odor of decay. There is little light here as thick tree branches twist into a weave and block any view of the sky above, while curtains of moss drape downward in stillness.

Now the goblin slows his pace, mindful of the narrowing path. It steps carefully between tree roots, bare feet compressing the wet solidified carpet of fallen leaves. It is at this point that your horses express their nervousness, pulling their heads back and stamping the ground; it is becoming more difficult to get them to move forward. Maribel, however, remains calm, even as her ears are erect and rotate around.
Jan 27, 2017 7:50 pm
At this point you are forced to secure your horses and Maribel to a nearby tree, as they cannot proceed any further. Indeed, the horses seem unwilling to go with you, resisting against any of your urgings.

The white-haired goblin says, "It is not much farther. Just beyond this next copse." It then disappears between two tree roots, slipping into shadow.

You make your way around and through the trees, and presently see the goblin standing next to two cairns made of chiseled and flattened slabs of rock. The cairns front a solid rise of earth and stone. This mound is topped by a singular tree, thick of trunk and crowed with a tangle of crooked branches adorned with hanging moss. The tree surrounds the mound with a network of dark roots, caressing it like a cage.

The goblin points to a small opening between the roots, where a gap in solid stone can be seen. Even Coda would have to crawl on his hands and knees to enter beyond. "I know not who or what made this," says the goblin, referring to the mound. "But what lies within is not for the realm of the living.

"I shall wait for you here. With your steeds, if that would ease your concerns."
Jan 27, 2017 8:14 pm
Kalis takes a deep breath and nods to the others, "Ready when you are."
Jan 27, 2017 11:45 pm
Maenor nods and crawls into the hole.
Jan 28, 2017 2:22 am
Through his darkvision, Maenor squeezes his way into the mound. It is a tight fit with all of his belongings, but he manages to shimmy his way into a small domed chamber. Surrounded by what looks like uneven solid rock, the elf sees that the floor is paved with stone tile. The ceiling by the rock walls are 4-feet high, forcing Maenor to stoop a little, but rises to 6-feet at the apex of the dome.

Scattered around the chamber are small clay pots of various size, from as small as a beer stein to one as tall as a flower vase. Even in the dim light of his darkvision, Maenor can see that cobwebs and dust cake their surfaces.

In the middle of the chamber is a solid stone slab, approximately 3-feet wide and 6-feet long, with a stone tomb resting upon it. At the edges of the slab are the remnants of spent candles, nothing more than slicks of melted wax. The lid of the tomb is askew, resting against the slab and a part of the floor, looking as though it had been flipped over.
Jan 29, 2017 12:35 am
Maenor moves quietly to one side to make room for his comrades, pulling his shield into place but leaving his other hand free.
Jan 30, 2017 2:29 pm
Geno crawls forward to follow Maenor, but pauses to look back at the goblin as he does.

"We will reward the faith you have placed in us."

He squeezes through the hole, taking care to avoid chipping his horns.
Jan 30, 2017 3:44 pm
Kalis lights up a torch and follows behind Maenor and Geno, eyes sweeping back and forth through the dark room.
OOC:
Just realized that I took Variant Human but never chose a feat...
Last edited January 30, 2017 3:45 pm
Jan 30, 2017 7:06 pm
As the torch pushes back the darkness, more of the room is revealed. Faded bas-relief on the walls depict a procession of slaves, servants, and soldiers in heirarchical order starting from the entrance, along the sides of the chamber, leading to the opposite end where a large seated figure rests. This figure seems dressed in elaborate chain, one hand holding the hilt of a sword point-down while the other grasps an illuminated staff spreading its rays over the heads of the processional.

However, as the lines spread across the ceiling they begin to entwine. At the junction from the wall, the rays form an organized pattern of knots that bring to mind a canopy of leaves and branches. Spreading upward across the ceiling, the lines becomes erratic, twisting into a random and chaotic jumble until it reaches a gigantic open eye that rests in the center. The corners of the eye align with the axis of the tomb, as though eternally watching whatever is within.
Feb 1, 2017 6:03 pm
OOC:
Do Coda and Daniel remain outside, or do they follow the others into the tomb?
Feb 1, 2017 7:41 pm
OOC:
Sorry yeah, Coda would of entered but I didn't have anything to add.
Feb 1, 2017 7:49 pm
OOC:
Daniel will enter once everyone else is inside.
Feb 1, 2017 8:01 pm
The entire party is now within this small chamber, standing near the crack in the wall that allowed them entrance. Kalis' torch flickers, causing the bas-relief images to appear as though they are marching and the twisting rays on the ceiling to appear writhing, but this effect fades rather quickly as your eyes settle. You also see that the tiled floor forms a spiraling pattern from the walls with alternating light and dark lines centering towards the stone slab in the middle.

There is no sound save for the crack in the torch. The air is musty, though not oppressive. No other movement can be seen, nor can you see inside the open sarcophagus.
Feb 1, 2017 8:23 pm
Unable to contain his curiosity, Kalis steps forward, shining his light into the sarcophagus.
Feb 1, 2017 8:30 pm
As Kalis walks across the floor, his feet step upon one of the dark spiraling lines. The tile under his boot cracks with a sharp echo.

Kalis reaches the sarcophagus, which on its pedestal rises to his chest. He leans forward and brings his torch over the edge, and the light spills downward to reveal a set of stairs made of stone. These stairs descend into what looks like a hallway leading north.
Feb 1, 2017 8:33 pm
"Huh... there's a staircase in the sarcophagus. Who wants to lead the way?"
Feb 2, 2017 4:50 pm
A gust of wind rushes through the crack in the wall, resounding in a low moan that rises as the cobwebs sway.

Then it is silent, and the room grows still.
Feb 2, 2017 7:25 pm
Maenor steps forward with a grim expression. He climbs into the sarcophagus, then unlimbers his mace before heading down the stairs.
Feb 2, 2017 7:28 pm
Kalis follows behind Maenor.
Feb 2, 2017 8:32 pm
Coda follows behind Kalis.
Feb 2, 2017 9:52 pm
Daniel follows behind Coda, flipping his blindfold over and keeping a tight grip on his cane.
Feb 2, 2017 9:59 pm
Kalis' torch illuminates a hallway just as Maenor reaches the bottom of the stairs. The tiled floor and stone walls are bare of any decoration, save for the cracks of time. There is an empty sconce on one side of the wall. You make room as everyone descends into the hallway.

Ahead is a door made of shriveled grey wood bound by iron bands. It is slightly ajar.

Map
Feb 4, 2017 12:45 am
"Well, there appears to be but one direction. Be on your guard. I dislike our odds in tight spaces..."
Feb 4, 2017 12:46 am
Maenor swallows and steps forward, pushing at the door with his shoulder.
Feb 4, 2017 6:29 pm
As he approaches the door, Maenor notices the thin filament of a broken wire hanging from the corner of the jamb, partially hidden by the cobwebs. It calls to mind a trap, but it is apparent that this one has already been triggered or disabled. He pushes the door inward with his shoulder, and with a loud resistant creak the door grudgingly opens wider.

The torchlight spills into a room that opens towards the east. It features the same bare tile and uneven stone walls, as though many hands carved into solid rock to create this area. The west wall has a single large open eye carved in bas-relief, similar to the one on the ceiling of the chamber above, while the north wall features three eyes. Each eye faces a door in the south wall and the east.

Next to the eastern door is a battered suit of scale mail, crushed and gashed in numerous places. It still stands upright, gauntlets crossed over its chest, dented helmet resting upon smashed pauldrons.

There are three skeletons in this room. One is lies at your feet and appears to have once sat against the wall. The other two are near the suit of armor.

Map
Feb 4, 2017 9:24 pm
Maenor moves into the room to make room for his companions.
OOC:
Cleric to E4
Feb 4, 2017 9:38 pm
OOC:
You should be able to edit the map yourselves. Let me know if it's not working for you.
Feb 4, 2017 10:15 pm
The skeletons appear to have rotted leather and flimsy rags around the bones. There is a shortsword to the side of the western skeleton, while a mace and longsword lie next to the two skeletons toward the east. All weapons appear thoroughly rusted through and useless.
Feb 4, 2017 11:58 pm
Coda crawls through Kalis' and Daniel's legs and makes his way to an eye, observing it closely.
Feb 5, 2017 12:07 am
The bas-relief eye is made up of thick lines to denote the lids, symmetrical around the full iris. The pupil is defined via negative space, and Coda sees a small hole in the very center about an inch in diameter.
Feb 5, 2017 12:26 am
OOC:
How high up is this eye?
Feb 5, 2017 1:32 am
Kalis will look around at the eyes, trying to decide if they hold some sort of magical or historical significance, or if they mean something as far as this place is concerned.

Rolls

Arcana/History - (1d20+4)

(15) + 4 = 19

Investigation - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Feb 5, 2017 2:42 am
The eyes are aligned chest-high to an average human.

Kalis has read of ancient cultures that used eyes as symbols of warding, with the belief that something could not pass under the watchful gaze. It is interesting that typically such symbols were used to keep things out; their placement within this tomb gives the impression that they're keeping something in. He senses that these carvings are purely symbolic, as there does not seem any abjuration or divine power within them.

As he studies each eye, Kalis notices that the one in front of Coda, facing the door they just entered, is the only one with a hole in the pupil.
Feb 5, 2017 4:05 am
Kalis relays his findings to the others, "I think that our goblin friend was right, there's definitely something bad in here."
Feb 5, 2017 7:55 am
"How bad Are we talking?" Daniel runs a hand over one of the eyes.
Feb 5, 2017 11:28 am
Maenor looks at the eyes. "Most of them are directly across from a door."
Feb 5, 2017 4:54 pm
"Looks like we should be careful with there other doors," Geno remarks, looking around the room. "If that wire means this door was once trapped, perhaps the others are as well."

Out of superstition, Geno kicks the rusty weapons away from the skeletons, eying them suspiciously. He looks up at the ceiling to see if there are any markings above.

Rolls

Investigation (Ceiling) - (1d20+3)

(14) + 3 = 17

Feb 5, 2017 6:22 pm
Daniel feels the smooth stone carving. It is cold and a bit dusty with cobwebs.

Geno sees nothing but a plain ceiling, slightly domed to disperse the weight of the ground above. As he kicks the weapons away, they clatter across the floor and the skeletons do not move.

However, as soon as he approaches the skeleton in the corner by the eastern door and kicks away the shortsword, there is a shuffling sound. A cloud of dust spills out from the suit of armor against the wall, and with the groan of stiff leather and rusted scale, the helmet lifts and the arms uncross. There appears to be no body inside the armor and the helmet turns its empty visage toward the tiefling, raising its gauntlets.

Focused on both the ceiling and the rusted weapons, Geno is slow to react. He finds himself the target of two metal fists as the now-animated armor lands heavy blows against his shoulder and chest (22 vs AC, 7 damage; 17 vs AC, 8 damage).
OOC:
Surprise round over, players move first!
Map
Feb 5, 2017 7:36 pm
OOC:
Do we roll Initiative or just each take a turn?
Feb 5, 2017 8:57 pm
OOC:
I rolled initiative for each side. Everyone can act in any order.
Feb 5, 2017 9:00 pm
"Urgh!" Geno utters, pained, as the armor slams into his body. In response, the flames crawl around his body again, encasing him in cold fire. He draws his short sword as well and stands at the ready.
OOC:
Armor of Agathys, which gets me 10 Temp HP at this point. 1/2 Spell Slots remain.
Feb 5, 2017 9:30 pm
Kalis is not as surprised by this turn of events as he may have been in the past. He draws upon his magical energy and his eyes flash gold for a moment as he holds a hand out at the suit of armor and launches a bolt of energy at it.
OOC:
Casting Eldritch Blast. Spell sniper allows be to ignore half and three-quarters cover.

EDIT: BOOM!
Last edited February 5, 2017 9:30 pm

Rolls

Eldritch Blast - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (10) = 10

Feb 5, 2017 9:52 pm
The armor seems unimpressed by the cold flame surrounding Geno. It then staggers against the wall as Kalis' forceful blast caves in the dented helmet and knocks it to the floor. The rest of the armor still stands ready, gauntlets raised.
Feb 6, 2017 12:26 am
Coda runs up to the side of Maenor "What an unattractive piece of armor."

Casting Vicious Mockery. Wis. Save DC 14 or have disadvantage and take 1d4 psychic.
OOC:
I'm pretty useless in this fight.
Last edited February 6, 2017 12:37 am

Rolls

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Feb 6, 2017 12:30 am
The suit of armor does not seem to care about Coda's words, as they ring hollow within its empty confines.
OOC:
Actions left to take: Daniel, Maenor
Feb 6, 2017 12:59 am
Daniel wraps his blindfold around his hand and casts Bless on himself, Geno, and Maenor.
OOC:
Remember those d4s, folks!
Feb 6, 2017 1:36 am
Maenor steps around the side of the armor and swings his mace at its midsection.

Rolls

mace attack - (1d20+4)

(11) + 4 = 15

bless - (1d4)

(4) = 4

dmg if successful - (1d6+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Feb 6, 2017 1:49 am
A chunk of scales and frail leather is torn out from the suit's midsection, leaving a gaping hole in the side. It steps unevenly toward Geno and its arms lash out, but the heavy gauntlets meet only dusty air (11 vs AC, 8 vs AC).
OOC:
Player Turn!
Map
Feb 6, 2017 1:52 am
Kalis is very frustrated at attacks on his fried and decides to take things up a notch. He holds a finger out and three darts of energy zip forward and slam into the animated suit of armor.
[ +- ] Magic Missile

Rolls

Magic Missile - (3d4+3)

(132) + 3 = 9

Feb 6, 2017 2:37 am
The magical bolts slip into the gaping hole left by Maenor's mace and detonate within. The armored chest balloons outward as though the suit is trying to take a breath, and with a flash of arcane energy it collapses to the ground.
OOC:
Combat over!
Feb 6, 2017 3:01 am
"Here's a thought, guys, what if the eyes are traps and when you open a door it fires a projectile. Hopefully, I'm my height makes it miss me but the rest of you stand away from the eyes." Coda awaits for input from the rest of the group before opening the door in front of him.
Feb 6, 2017 3:16 am
The door in front of Coda does not open. It appears to be locked.
Feb 6, 2017 3:47 am
"Locked." Coda calls out and moves to the doors on his right.
OOC:
Geno is currently in the door spot so wiggle this in when DJ moves or refuses.
Feb 6, 2017 4:28 am
The right-most door in the south wall is also locked. This one is made of metal, while the others were made of wood bound by iron bands.

The east door is unlocked, and Coda pushes it open to reveal another hallway that extends 15 feet before turning north.

Nothing else happens in the room the rest of the party is in.

Map
Feb 6, 2017 10:29 am
"Hold on, friend Coda. Geno is injured. Let me help him before we proceed." If Geno consents, Maenor will attempt to heal him.
Feb 6, 2017 4:17 pm
Geno gasps through his cold armor, and says "Yes... please." before collapsing into a seating position out of Coda (and anyone else's) way. He takes the moment to speak a few more incantations and summon a few more wards to protect himself.
OOC:
Using my Eldritch Invocation for a free Mage Armor cast. AC 16 now.
Feb 6, 2017 4:21 pm
OOC:
Does that mean Geno is removing his leather armor? Mage Armor only works if you're unarmored, and your AC would be 13 + Dexterity modifier.
Feb 6, 2017 4:36 pm
"No need to worry, Maenor, I have no interest in exploring this place alone."
Feb 6, 2017 6:18 pm
CancerMan says:
OOC:
Does that mean Geno is removing his leather armor? Mage Armor only works if you're unarmored, and your AC would be 13 + Dexterity modifier.
OOC:
Yeah, honestly I don't really need/want the leather armor. My intent is just to free-cast my Mage Armor whenever I need a refresh. I guess that'll bring me to AC 17, which is nice.
Feb 7, 2017 12:26 am
Maenor rests a hand on Geno's shoulder and prays for his goddess to heal him.

Rolls

Cure Wounds - (1d8+4)

(3) + 4 = 7

Feb 7, 2017 1:01 am
"Thank you Maenor... that is... much better." Geno cracks his shoulders and back, wincing at the noise, but looking far healthier.
Feb 7, 2017 1:08 am
"I have a bit of healing magic, as well, if you aren't tiptop." Coda looks at Geno after seeing him wince.
Feb 7, 2017 7:44 am
Daniel walks over and inspects one of the locked doors. "Any idea what's behind these?"
Feb 7, 2017 5:27 pm
With only a cursory glance, Daniel can tell that the two locked doors are made of ancient petrified wood, bound with iron bands. There is a keyhole on one side opposite the hinges, which by their positioning opens the door inward towards the group.
Feb 9, 2017 4:32 pm
OOC:
Are we doing more Geno-healing? Attempting to open the locked doors? Or proceeding down the hallway?
Map
Feb 9, 2017 11:44 pm
Daniel is going to take out his picks and try to open one of the locked doors, muttering something to himself.
OOC:
Guidance

Rolls

Thieves' tools with Guidance - (1d20+6, 1d4)

1d20+6 : (14) + 6 = 20

1d4 : (3) = 3

Feb 10, 2017 2:21 pm
OOC:
Which door?
Feb 10, 2017 2:44 pm
OOC:
Let's say first on the right.
Feb 10, 2017 2:45 pm
OOC:
Let's say first on the right.
Feb 10, 2017 2:51 pm
*click*

The door appears to now be unlocked.
Feb 13, 2017 4:32 pm
You hear another moan from above, as a gust of wind resonates through the opening of the tomb. At least, you think it's the wind.
OOC:
What does the party do now?
Feb 13, 2017 4:50 pm
OOC:
I was waiting for Coda to heal Geno...but if he's going to pass on that, then we can move on.
Feb 13, 2017 4:55 pm
"Should I just leave the rest of these locked just in case?"
Feb 13, 2017 4:58 pm
"I would think so. No need to have stray monsters sneaking up on us."
Feb 14, 2017 12:24 am
Maenor nods in agreement and proceeds through the open door that Coda had explored.
Feb 14, 2017 12:50 am
Maenor walks along the hallway, which makes a looping turn until the way is blocked by a metal portcullis. The bars allow Maenor to see beyond into a room bare of any furnishings, with walls of blank stone. He can see that there are two closed doors in that room, but does not immediately see any means of opening the portcullis.

Map
Feb 14, 2017 12:58 am
Maenor looks around for a way to open the portcullis.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

Feb 14, 2017 2:45 am
Looking around the edges of the portcullis, Maenor doesn't see anything that might provide a clue to its mechanism. However, when he looks as the portcullis itself, he notices that the bottom crossbar has a large hole in the middle that shows signs of wear, like something was inserted many times. He also sees that the outside edge opposite the hole shows the same wear, and considering the large size of the hole, likely a hefty gaff or hook was slipped through and pulled.
Feb 14, 2017 3:08 am
"Anything of note down there? Nothing that looks like it might move, I'd hope?"
Feb 14, 2017 9:53 pm
Maenor shakes his head, "Unfortunately, not. It seems there was an implement of some sort that was used to open the portcullis."
Feb 14, 2017 10:11 pm
"Maybe this 'implement' is stored elsewhere down here?"
Feb 14, 2017 10:13 pm
"Like through one of these?" Daniel taps on a door with his cane.
Feb 15, 2017 3:48 pm
Geno, perhaps a little impatiently, attempts to enter the door directly south of the now-unmoving armor.
Feb 15, 2017 6:27 pm
The recently-unlocked door opens into a chamber. Crumbling bookshelves line the walls, bare of contents. In fact, the shelves look so rotten and old that the lightest feather might cause them to collapse. The walls are otherwise free of any carvings. Even the ceiling is clean, decorated only with cobwebs that hang like chandeliers. Across the chamber, a door can be seen, with no handle or knob.

Ruined books lie scattered across the floor, in a pile that grows from the edges of the chamber to the center. In the middle is a small and thin sarcophagus, surrounded on all sides by the litter of tomes.

As Geno's darkvision adjusts, the door he passed through suddenly slams shut like a clap of thunder. As the noise subsides, it is replaced with a low moan coming from somewhere in the room. The moan rises in volume and pitch, unnaturally culminating into a scream of rage.
OOC:
Geno has a turn of action, while everyone else is Surprised.
Map
Feb 18, 2017 2:31 pm
"I know not what spirits lie here, but know that I come in peace! If you suffer, undying, in the mortal world, I will try to relieve that suffering. I am not your enemy!"

Geno yells, perhaps futilely, into the screaming darkness. As he does, he prepares for an attack that he knows could be impossible to anticipate. He squints to see if there is any way to escape, or any way to discern the source of the haunting sounds.
OOC:
Geno will try and see the room a bit more clearly in general, but in particular he's looking to see if there are any markings across from the southern door that match those in the main chamber. Also he's Readying an Attack action for if he is attacked.

Notably, my Armor of Agathys is still active.
Last edited February 18, 2017 2:31 pm

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(19) + 3 = 22

Feb 18, 2017 6:45 pm
There is only a crumbling bookcase directly across the door, and Geno can see that the wall behind it is plain. The southern door itself has no handle, and the hinges indicate that it opens into the room.

Geno also notices that when the north door closed, it did not lock.

As the tiefling scans the room and its exits, he does not see the source of the scream. He does, however, notice as one of the books rises into the air. As the shrieking continues, the book hurtles towards him in a straight line (21 vs AC, 3 damage).
OOC:
Geno, the temporary hit points you get from Armor of Agathys is based on the spell level, not your level. That is, you need to be able to cast it at 2nd level to get 10 temporary hit points.

Player turn!
Feb 21, 2017 6:10 pm
OOC:
What do the rest of you do? You all heard the scream, and those in the first chamber saw the door slam shut, but not lock.
Feb 21, 2017 6:15 pm
Kalis will open the door to see what's going on.
OOC:
I'll decide on further actions based on what I see
Feb 21, 2017 6:28 pm
The door is re-opened, and Kalis finds Geno on the other side of the doorway. He sees the tiefling get hit by a book, thrown by an unseen attacker. The scream is emanating from somewhere within the room.
Feb 21, 2017 6:44 pm
Kalis thinks of anything he could do without hurting the books, but then thinks better of it and fires a bolt of magical energy at the unseen attacker's last location.
OOC:
Eldritch Blast

Rolls

Eldritch Blast [Disadvantage] - (1d20+5, 1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d20+5 : (9) + 5 = 14

1d10 : (1) = 1

Feb 21, 2017 10:44 pm
The blast of arcane force streaks across the room, impacting against one of the bookshelves on the eastern wall, and the rotted wood explodes into powder. Kalis does not immediately detect anybody besides Geno, but he can feel an unnatural presence somewhere in this room.
Feb 22, 2017 12:47 am
Maenor runs back down the hall and asks, "What's going on?"
Feb 22, 2017 2:10 am
"There's something in here, but I don't know what! There's a door to the south, but we might not be able to get to it that easily! I'll take a look!"

Geno will move across the room, watching the bookshelves to attempt to duck out of the way of other books.
OOC:
Taking the Dodge action once I get to be in front of the southern door. Once there, I'd like to inspect the door more closely. Out of curiosity, did the book take the Agathys Cold damage and freeze up? Not that it matters, but it'd be cool. :D

Rolls

Investigation (South Door) - (1d20+3)

(6) + 3 = 9

Feb 22, 2017 7:34 am
OOC:
Geno, give me a Dexterity check as you move across the pile of books.
[ +- ] Dex roll of 15+
[ +- ] Dex roll of 10-14
[ +- ] Dex roll of 2-9
[ +- ] Dex roll of 1
Geno can see by the placement of its hinges that the door opens into the room. The lack of any handle or other means of manipulating the door likely indicates that passage through it is one-way, but right now Geno is not able to determine what mechanism would enforce this.
OOC:
Actions left to take:

Maenor (movement taken, still have Actions)
Daniel
Coda
Map
Feb 22, 2017 8:44 am
Coda runs forward to see what the trouble is and immediately runs back when he sees the room is dark. He digs into his backpack and pulls out a lantern and a flask of oil.
OOC:
If I am able to fill the lantern and light it, I will do that.
Last edited February 23, 2017 12:20 am
Feb 22, 2017 10:18 am
Seeing Coda's predicament, Maenor waves a hand and mutters a word and Coda's lantern begins emitting a bright blow glow, from the metal of the lantern itself.
OOC:
Casting Light.
Feb 22, 2017 4:22 pm
OOC:
Kalis has a torch, so the room is already illuminated. You can still have a Light-enabled lantern if you wish, but I will let both Coda and Maenor revise their actions if they choose.
Feb 22, 2017 4:26 pm
OOC:
Let's avoid some mandatory reading!

Rolls

DEX check - (1d20+4)

(16) + 4 = 20

Feb 23, 2017 12:16 am
OOC:
Will wait on Coda's action, as he's currently blocking me from going any closer.
Feb 23, 2017 12:26 am
Coda runs forward to see what the trouble is and immediately runs to Geno's side "Are you okay?"
OOC:
Action to dash.
Feb 23, 2017 12:43 am
OOC:
Coda, give me a Dexterity check as you dash across the piles of books.
[ +- ] Dex roll 15+
[ +- ] Dex roll 10-14
[ +- ] Dex roll 2-9
[ +- ] Dex roll 1
Feb 23, 2017 12:56 am
...Coda leaps up onto a larger pile of books, and plants both feet upon heavy tomes. He slides down the slope, waving his arms to keep balance, before skidding to a halt by Geno's side. "Hi." he says sheepishly before asking if Geno is okay.
Last edited February 23, 2017 12:58 am

Rolls

Dex - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Feb 23, 2017 4:35 pm
OOC:
Maenor and Daniel have actions left.
Feb 23, 2017 6:21 pm
"Yeah, I got this." Daniel steps into the room to catch up with the others.
OOC:
Casting Guidance.

Rolls

DEX check - (1d20+4)

(5) + 4 = 9

Guidance - (1d4)

(1) = 1

Feb 23, 2017 6:46 pm
Daniel steps around the sarcophagus, his foot falling upon a slope of books. It shifts under him and he flails his arms to keep his balance, and he slides down on some tomes before righting himself with a hand on the stone coffin.

Map
Feb 24, 2017 4:25 pm
OOC:
Maenor has an Action to take.
Feb 25, 2017 12:00 am
OOC:
Sorry about that...forgot to post last night
Maenor runs and stands in the doorway, taking in the scene.
OOC:
Dash action.
Feb 25, 2017 12:26 am
As the party looks about the chamber, some of whom had traversed their way across the scattered piles of books that hide the floor, everyone hears that loud anguished scream echo throughout. It fills the room and shakes you to your bones, like some unnatural force is attempting to grip your soul.

For Daniel, the clutching sensation becomes real. It feels as though cold hands grab him by the shoulders and pulls, but no one can see anything.
OOC:
Daniel, give me a Strength check!
[ +- ] Strength roll 14+
[ +- ] Strength roll 1-13
OOC:
Player Turn!
Map
Feb 25, 2017 1:37 am
OOC:
Oh dear, not my area of expertise at all...
Daniel manages to escape from whatever grabbed hold of him and turns around, drawing his blade. "A little help here?"
OOC:
Readying an action to stab whatever it is if it tries to grab me again.
Last edited February 25, 2017 1:40 am

Rolls

Strength - (1d20+1)

(17) + 1 = 18

Feb 27, 2017 4:20 pm
As Daniel and the others shift around the room, it becomes apparent that whatever is assailing them with sound and fury is not visible to the naked eye.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Coda
Geno
Kalis
Maenor
Mar 1, 2017 2:36 pm
Kalis aims where he thinks the invisible force may be and fires another blast of energy.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(16) + 4 = 20

Eldritch Blast, Disadvantage - (1d20+5, 1d20+5, 1d10)

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

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

1d10 : (9) = 9

Mar 1, 2017 4:47 pm
For lack of any other visible cue, Kalis focuses his attention in the center of the room. Above the sarcophagus, he thinks he sees a shimmer in the air just as Daniel shrugs off some invisible force. Kalis sends out his blast of elder arcane force and watches with satisfaction as the magical energy seems to impact something, dissipating across the brief silhouette of a humanoid form.

The scream of rage intensifies, even as the image fades with the spent power of Kalis's blast.
Mar 2, 2017 1:26 am
Coda pulls his sling off, loads up a bullet and swings for momentum; releasing it shortly after aimed towards the brief silhouette.

Rolls

Attack disadvantage/ damage - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d4+2)

1d20+6 : (16) + 6 = 22

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

1d4+2 : (4) + 2 = 6

Mar 2, 2017 4:22 am
The bullet zips through the air. When it reaches the last place Coda saw the shimmering form, it seems to slow as though pushing through something that briefly slows its path, before smacking into the far wall.
Mar 2, 2017 10:19 am
Maenor intones three melodious syllables and points his hand toward the shape as is it briefly revealed. Harsh white light descends upon it.

Rolls

Sacred Flame (Dex Save DC 14) - (1d8)

(5) = 5

Mar 2, 2017 3:45 pm
The radiant fire spills onto the sarcophagus; if there was any other effect, it is not readily apparent. However, Maenor can feel a malevolent gaze upon him, as though he has attracted the attention of something.

The scream continues, reverberating throughout the room.
OOC:
Geno has an Action to take
Map
Mar 3, 2017 3:24 pm
Geno nods to Coda. "I'm fine... I think." Then he squints, attempting to focus on the magical glimmer that seems to be assaulting his companions and lets loose eldritch energy.
OOC:
Sorry for briefly disappearing!

Rolls

Eldritch Blast Attack - (1d20+6)

(4) + 6 = 10

Eldritch Blast Damage - (1d10)

(9) = 9

Eldritch Blast Attack (DADV) - (1d20+6)

(9) + 6 = 15

Mar 3, 2017 5:50 pm
The tiefling's blast zips across the room and explodes against the far wall. The bookshelves shatter into a cloud of splinters and dust.

Daniel, still standing before the sarcophagus, suddenly feels a hard and violent shove against his chest like something barreled into him at high speed.
OOC:
Daniel can roll his Readied Attack, at Disadvantage because of the Invisible opponent. Then he must make a Strength saving throw.
[ +- ] Strength roll 17+
[ +- ] Strength roll 1-16
OOC:
After Daniel's attack, it is back to the Players' Turn!
Mar 4, 2017 1:37 pm
Daniel manages to get a solid stab in on the creature before getting thrown across the room and into the wall. Stumbling to his feet, he turns to face that spot again. "Found it!"
Last edited March 4, 2017 1:40 pm

Rolls

Rapier(disadvantage) - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d8+4)

1d20+6 : (16) + 6 = 22

1d20+6 : (16) + 6 = 22

1d8+4 : (8) + 4 = 12

Strength save - (1d20+1)

(10) + 1 = 11

Mar 4, 2017 5:09 pm
The rapier seems to encounter resistance, much like how Daniel would expect it to feel when striking an opponent. However, this feels different, like stabbing through a change in the air. There is a chill, mixed with an unearthly sensation that affects the marrow in Daniel's arm, before he is thrown against the wall.
OOC:
Player Turn!
Map
Mar 5, 2017 12:51 am
His heart beating faster at the weight of that ominous gaze, Maenor firms his lips and calls the holy fire down once more, aimed at the spot where his fellow adventurers are attacking. His fear shows itself in the tiny guttering flame that is produced.
Last edited March 5, 2017 12:52 am

Rolls

Sacred Flame (Dex Save DC 14) - (1d8)

(1) = 1

Mar 5, 2017 1:38 am
Seeing that his attack seemed to have some effect Kalis launches another bolt of Arcane power.

Rolls

Eldritch blast (disadvantage) - (1d20+5, 1d20+5, 1d10)

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

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

1d10 : (6) = 6

Mar 5, 2017 3:50 am
There seems to be some effect from the combined assault of magic both divine and arcane. The scream rages once again throughout the room, but this time it sounds as though it struggles to make itself heard, distant and frail.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Coda
Daniel
Geno
Mar 5, 2017 4:00 am
Coda loads another sling bullet, flinging it seconds later in the direction of the cries.
OOC:
Quick question, CancerMan, does the sling use Str. or Dex. for attack and damage?
OOC:
*Lucky Halfling.
**k.
Last edited March 5, 2017 4:01 am

Rolls

Attack disadvantage - (1d20+6, 1d20+6)

1d20+6 : (1) + 6 = 7

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

Damage - (1d4+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Nat. 1 reroll - (1d20+6)

(1) + 6 = 7

Mar 5, 2017 1:23 pm
OOC:
Dex for Slings
Mar 5, 2017 5:23 pm
Geno fires off another blast in the vague direction of the unseen force.

Rolls

Eldritch Blast - (1d20+6)

(10) + 6 = 16

Eldritch Blast (DADV) - (1d20+6)

(13) + 6 = 19

Damage - (1d10)

(6) = 6

Mar 5, 2017 6:04 pm
Coda can see his bullet sail across the room, and he watches for the same effect from before. However, instead the bullet shatters the bookshelf above Kalis' head, showering him in splinters and dust.

The arcane power behind Geno's magic seems to slice through the air. As it passes above the sarcophagus, the blast seems to disappear into the distance, as if entering into another world. There is a sucking sound, and the scream of rage sounds as though it is being pulled away from the room. The noise intensifies, like a struggle to remain, but with an sudden intake of air the room falls silent.

You wait, for what seems like an eternity, and nothing moves in the room. For Maenor, the feeling of maliciousness seems to have vanished, while the others feel like they can breathe easier as the oppressive sensation is gone.

You are left with a room full of ruined books piled across the floor, broken bookshelves on some walls with crumbled remains of others destroyed in the battle, and a small thin sarcophagus in the center.
OOC:
Combat over!

Decide what you wish to do now.
Map
Mar 6, 2017 3:53 am
"Oi, Kalis mate, you should've seen it; a big ol' spider was descending, about to land on your head. Luckily for you, my aim was true." Coda smiles as he ties his sling back around his head.
Mar 6, 2017 2:23 pm
"Then I'm very glad that you were around to help," Kalis says with a straight face, but you're pretty sure you can see a grin on his face as he turns away.
Mar 8, 2017 2:15 pm
"Unfortunate that so many of these books were lost. I can't imagine the last time they were read..."

Geno attempts to pick through some of the torn books, but gets distracted when he remembers the closed door he and Coda found themselves up against. He starts to look for any mechanisms that might be in the room, anything out of place.

Rolls

Investigation! - (1d20+3)

(4) + 3 = 7

Mar 8, 2017 4:23 pm
The books, unfortunately, are now illegible. Whether that is due to time or other environmental factors is unknown.

The door in the southeast corner has no handle, and the hinges are on your side of the room indicating that it swings inward. Geno does notice that there is a metal plate where a handle would be, with two twisted nubs. Seems likely that something removed the handle by force.
Mar 9, 2017 3:22 pm
Maenor ponders a moment. "The other door, perhaps? It would be best if I guard you, though, as I expect someone unpleasant to come out of the wall once we open it."
Mar 9, 2017 3:25 pm
"Anyone want to try busting the door down?"
Mar 10, 2017 12:35 am
Maenor raises his eyebrows. "This one? The hinges would indicate that would not be a fruitful endeavour."
Mar 10, 2017 12:43 am
"Huh, I suppose you're right. I've not much experience breaking doors down," Kalis says, slightly embarrassed, "Wait here..."

Kalis wanders back to the portcullis and summons a mage hand on the other side, sending it to the other side of the door to try and open it.
[ +- ] Mage Hand
OOC:
Using the Pythagorean Theorem, I have determined that the bottom-left corner of K11 is about 29 feet away, meaning the doorknob should be slightly less than that...

My position IN the portcullis just indicates that I am pressed tightly against it
Last edited March 10, 2017 12:48 am
Mar 10, 2017 7:43 am
Stretching out, Kalis sends forth a spectral copy of his own hand across the room. Like a puppeteer, he manipulates the hand to clasp upon the far door and give a push open.

Those inside the book-strewn chamber hear a click as the latch is released, and the door swings inward, pushing several books aside. The way is clear to the next room, where the others can see Kalis half-squeezed through the bars of the portcullis at the other end.

The room itself is in stark contrast to the one with the sarcophagus. This chamber is completely bare of any furnishings and even the walls are blank stone. Only small cobwebs anchor the corners, and the floor has a thick layer of dust indicating that nothing has traversed through in quite some time.

Map
Mar 10, 2017 9:50 pm
Kalis makes his way back to the group, all smiles.
Last edited March 11, 2017 12:51 pm
Mar 11, 2017 12:48 pm
"Very clever Kalis, color me impressed." Coda walks into the now opened door, giving a smile to Kalis as he does. "They sure do like keeping closed doors, huh."
Mar 11, 2017 5:17 pm
Coda's footprints stand out in stark contrast to the bare floor. He stands opposite the door in the east wall, which appears to be made of wood with iron bands. This door does have a handle.
Mar 11, 2017 8:22 pm
Maenor smiles at Kalis as he returns. "Indeed, an ingenious solution!" then follows Coda into the room.
Mar 13, 2017 4:22 pm
Geno smiles and nods towards Kalis. "Excellent."

He also walks into the new room.
Mar 13, 2017 6:04 pm
Nothing happens as Geno and Maenor join Coda in the room, except for a few puffs of dust that kick up as it is disturbed. The door within the east wall remains closed.

Maenor's keen elven senses detect nothing amiss. There is no sound behind the east door.

Back in the room with the sarcophagus, Kalis notices that its lid is slightly ajar.
Mar 13, 2017 6:07 pm
Curious, Kalis moves over to look into the sarcophagus.
Mar 13, 2017 6:42 pm
In the darkness, Kalis can see the dim shape of a skeleton lying at rest. Tattered rags of what were once robes manage to keep most of the bones together. Peculiarly, the skull is missing.

Next to the skeleton there are three small ceramic urns sealed with a crumbling wax. One urn contains two lapis lazuli stones (worth 5 gp each), while the other has a tiger's eye gemstone (worth 10 gp). The third urn is heavier, and contains 50 pieces of silver coins.

Lying upon the skeleton's chest is a small rod of wrought iron. At one end is a small ivory marble held in place by four prongs that rise from a twisted pattern in the iron. The other end tapers from halfway down the rod to a sharp point. For Kalis, he is familiar enough with such items that he is certain this is a wand.

At the skeleton's side there is a small dagger that seems fairly untouched despite the decay inside the sarcophagus.
Mar 13, 2017 6:44 pm
Kalis grabs the items from the sarcophagus and then joins the others.
Mar 13, 2017 6:58 pm
Most of the party is now in the room, which is bare of any decoration and furniture. It is, essentially, empty save for yourselves. There is a portcullis on the north wall, and a door to the east. What do you wish to do?
Mar 14, 2017 12:46 am
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Mar 14, 2017 12:57 am
CancerMan sent a note to CosmicKeyring
Mar 14, 2017 1:02 am
Daniel follows the others into the next room. "Kalis, what's that you found?"
Mar 14, 2017 1:06 am
Kalis explains each of the items he's found, including his suspicion that the dagger may be magical.
Mar 14, 2017 1:12 am
"May I?" Daniel extends a hand.
Mar 14, 2017 1:25 am
Kalis shrugs and hands over the dagger, "Yeah, I don't mind."
Mar 14, 2017 1:31 am
Daniel takes the knife and flips it over in his hand a few times.
Mar 14, 2017 2:18 am
The dagger feels well-balanced with a slender and keen edge.
Mar 14, 2017 9:19 am
Maenor frowns in thought. "It troubles me greatly that the skull was missing. I have a spell that may aid us in identifying the nature of these objects, but perhaps it would be best to finish our explorations first?" he gestures at the closed door.
Mar 15, 2017 10:33 pm
Maenor gives the closed door a once-over, and determines that it is not trapped, nor is it locked. Opening the door reveals a north-south hallway. Maenor can see to the north that after a slight bend, the hallway leads to an arch and chamber beyond; the dim outline of shields and swords can be seen against the wall. To the south, the hallway takes a sharp turn and extends further into darkness, and there is another closed door visible at the corner.
OOC:
Which way do you wish to go?
Map
Mar 17, 2017 12:07 am
Daniel moves slowly to the north, keeping watch for any traps.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

Mar 17, 2017 12:27 am
Geno follows Daniel, sword at the ready in case more inanimate objects decide to spring to live. The headless skeleton was... unnerving, particularly considering the shrieking library before it.
Mar 18, 2017 12:01 pm
Maenor follows as well, continuing to hold his shield at the ready but with his mace at his belt.
Mar 18, 2017 5:02 pm
Coda backtracks and keeps Kalis company so they aren't alone.
Mar 19, 2017 7:19 pm
Kalis follows with the others, one hand on his staff and his other fingering the wand, wondering what secrets it might hold.
Mar 20, 2017 12:33 am
You find yourselves in a room surrounding by weapon racks made of rotted wood. There are many rusted swords that cling precariously to the racks, each blade pitted and uneven. Round shields sit on the ground against the wall below the swords with shriveled planks of wood between rusted bands of metal.

There is a closed door in the southeast corner.
Mar 21, 2017 4:31 pm
It is easy to tell that the swords and shields are worthless and would likely crumble to the touch. Any identifying marks have long since vanished to time.

However, Maenor spots something behind the weapon rack in the northeast corner. He is unable to tell specifically what it is, but it is within the wall and does not appear anywhere else in the room.
Mar 22, 2017 1:36 pm
Geno moves over to the closed door and slowly attempts to open it, peering into the subsequent room should it open.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(14) + 3 = 17

Mar 22, 2017 5:36 pm
The door is unlocked. Geno cracks it open, peeking through. The tiefling can see a room empty of furniture, with two closed doors further in.

Geno also sees, standing in the middle of this room, a group of humanoid figures. He notices that these creatures appear gaunt and rotten, like their flesh has been arrested from natural decomposition, and he recognizes them as zombies. Unnaturally, the zombies turn their heads at the movement of the door, and begin to shuffle towards Geno with arms outstretched.

Map
OOC:
The door is not completely open at this point, and Geno did not step into the room. I won't determine initiative for now since we haven't really gotten into combat, but that may change depending on what the party does next.

What do you do?
Mar 22, 2017 9:52 pm
Maenor heads to the corner to inspect the wall more closely.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+5)

(15) + 5 = 20

Mar 22, 2017 10:00 pm
Maenor can see a bas-relief carving of a large eye in the wall, hidden by the weapon rack. It is possible that it would have been completely hidden back when the wood was new.

The eye faces the door that Geno is peeking through.
Mar 24, 2017 1:33 pm
"Geno, what do you see?" Kalis whispers from behind.
Mar 24, 2017 3:35 pm
Geno gingerly shuts the door and turns to Kalis.

"I believe there are some zombies in that room. There are also two doors, so we might have to go this way at some point regardless."
Mar 24, 2017 4:44 pm
As if in response, the door by Geno thumps as something hits it from the other side. There is a scratching sound, followed by another muffled thump.

The door does not budge, despite the sounds of impact.
OOC:
Reminder that the corridor leading to the room you are now in also extended southward. I tried to make the Map a little better to indicate visual limits rather than hard stops.

Not saying you have to go that way, but mentioning it since your characters would be aware of it.
Mar 24, 2017 10:03 pm
"You say there are multiple doors into that room, in that case, we can explore the rest of this place and clear it out then hit them from multiple points." Coda begins backtracking the way they came, after everyone finishes talking.
Mar 27, 2017 5:50 pm
Coda and Maenor travel down the corridor, past the door, and find that at the far end of the corridor is a bas-relief eye, similar to the others.

They also see that the corridor splits into two passageways. The southern hallway leads to a closed and locked door. Maenor notes that there is no eye-carving opposite this one.

The eastern hallway leads to an archway. In the room beyond, the walls show bas-relief carvings of figures armored in chainmail and open-faced helmets, each kneeling in supplication. They start from the archway and kneel facing the far end of the room, and where the line of armored figures meet is a standing figure in robes, head wreathed in a halo of light. This figure stands next to a fountain, pouring water from a jug into it with one hand, while the other is lifted to the sky. Rays of light stream down upon the fountain from an open eye floating in the sky, and you see that the rays also traverse the ceiling and touch upon the heads of each kneeling figure.

The floor has a spiraling pattern leading from the walls and focusing at the center, where there is a plain-looking and dry fountain.

Map
Mar 27, 2017 5:55 pm
Kalis follows along with the others. Then, seeing the images, Kalis heads over to investigate.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+2)

(17) + 2 = 19

Perception - (1d20+4)

(14) + 4 = 18

Mar 27, 2017 6:16 pm
The robed figure appears to be some type of holy individual. Kalis reasons that the eye is symbolic of whatever deity or higher power that is being worshiped by the figures, and the act of pouring water into the fountain has achieved some kind of blessing for everyone.

The actual fountain in the center of the room does not have any carvings, but there is a stone basin at the top of a column in the middle of a larger bowl. There are small holes in the basin that Kalis reasons would allow water to flow down the column into the bowl.
Mar 27, 2017 6:19 pm
Curious, Kalis will open his waterskin and pour about half of it into the basin to see what happens.
Mar 27, 2017 6:35 pm
The water fills the basin, and as expected a slow trickle begins to flow down the column. The rivulets twist and meander in a curious pattern until they reach the bowl, where it begins to collect. The top basin finally drains, and the water sits in the bowl.

Nothing else seems to happen.

Intrigued by the pattern of the cascading water, Kalis inspects the column. While he cannot make sense of what is happening, he does notice that the column was crafted in a subtle, yet irregular, way. It makes Kalis believe that whatever the reason, the flow of water down the column in this way was intentional.
Mar 27, 2017 11:28 pm
Coda would of checked that closed door they passed to see if it was unlocked or not, he wouldn't open it but just check to see whether it is locked or not then do the same to the door down the hall.
Mar 28, 2017 12:15 am
These doors have a handle, under which is a keyhole. The handles do not move, leading Coda to believe that determining whether or not they are locked involves attempting to open the doors.
Mar 28, 2017 1:22 pm
Daniel catches up with the group and examines the keyhole.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+7)

(5) + 7 = 12

Mar 28, 2017 4:53 pm
Daniel can see that the keyhole appears to have stood up to time fairly well, but that may also be due to a lack of use. Neither door looks to have been subject to lockpicking, based on the lack of fine scratches or cuts.
Mar 28, 2017 5:14 pm
CancerMan sent a note to Naatkinson
Mar 28, 2017 5:21 pm
OOC:
Can I tell if it's locked?
Mar 28, 2017 5:58 pm
Kalis nods, as if he's found what he was expecting and moves back to join the others.
Mar 28, 2017 6:13 pm
Looking into the keyhole, Daniel is unable to tell if the door is locked, as the mechanism is not designed to reveal such.

However, he is inspired to check the door jamb and see if he can spot any type of bar or other indication that something would prevent the door from opening.

He discovers that the first door Coda and the others passed through is totally flush with the jamb, and he cannot tell if there is any locking bar that has been engaged. Either the construction of this door is that precise, or it is stuck.

The door at the far end of the hallway does appear to be locked, as there is something between it and the jamb.
Mar 28, 2017 9:32 pm
"Perhaps we should try to unlock the door at the end of the hall, then perhaps try to force open the one opposite the eye?"
Mar 30, 2017 4:43 pm
OOC:
What does the party wish to do?
Map
Mar 30, 2017 10:51 pm
Coda will move out of the way, kneel in a corner and start a ritual.
OOC:
Unless something interrupts me, Ritual casting Unseen Servant.
Mar 31, 2017 7:32 pm
"Anyone handy with locks around here?"
Apr 1, 2017 6:19 pm
"Got it." Daniel starts working on the door at the far end.

Rolls

Thieves' tools with Guidance - (1d20+6, 1d4)

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

1d4 : (2) = 2

Apr 2, 2017 9:28 pm
Geno, fascinated, watches Daniel as he works.
Apr 3, 2017 4:46 pm
With a satisfying click, Daniel feels the lock disengage. The door leads to a small chamber with bas-relief carvings of warriors armed with shield and sword, engaged in battle against hordes of skeletal creatures of various sizes. Above them are four larger figures, three of which are similar as the warriors, but each has a halo around their heads. These three stride towards the fourth figure, an armor-clad skeletal creature that seems to rise out of the hordes below.

In the room are three large sarcophagi, each made of stone and engraved with a haloed warrior at rest. Several urns rest at the bases of each one.

Map
Apr 3, 2017 11:02 pm
Maenor looks at the carvings, trying to remember if he has learned anything about this battle or those depicted therein.

Rolls

History - (1d20+5)

(20) + 5 = 25

Apr 4, 2017 12:43 am
It takes some time, but as Maenor has walked these passageways and inspected the different carvings, he finally recalls tales from his religious studies. He remembers an order called The Eye of Ios that once stood against evil, seeking out and destroying the dark practice of black arts. Much of the tales surrounding The Eye of Ios are couched in allegory and fables, having evolved into idealized examples of good along with cautionary tales of bad.

Maenor recalls a small story regarding four brothers, the sons of the king. Each were powerful in their own right, but the youngest brother was regarded as the runt of the clan, and teased as brothers are wont to do. The youngest, perhaps in order to prove himself, coveted greater strength and in secret, allied himself with necromancers and studied dark magic. Soon his power and skill surpassed his siblings, but in turn he had become twisted and cruel, visiting horror amongst the people.

The other three brothers united against their kin and chased him across the mountains and plains until they met at the dark one's black throne. A tremendous battle was fought until blades and shields were sundered, and at last the youngest son lay dead upon the earth. The elder brothers, though alive in body, were horribly wounded in spirit; having laid low their own blood, their hearts broken by the realization of what he had become.

Here the tales often diverge depending on the audience. Young children are often told that each brother set off to form their own kingdoms, taking the guilt of how they treated their sibling and using it to ensure that no one need suffer those same mistakes. Others are warned about treating with dark powers they do not understand and the downfalls of those who covet power.

Rare and archaic tomes depict a different ending, of how the three brothers considered their failings to be the ultimate dishonor and took their own lives, physically putting blade to their broken hearts while they stood above their fallen sibling.
Apr 4, 2017 9:12 am
OOC:
I share what I have recalled with my companions
Apr 5, 2017 7:13 pm
OOC:
What does the party wish to do?
Apr 5, 2017 7:30 pm
Kalis will move forward to the eastern sarcophagus and try to open it up.
Apr 5, 2017 7:33 pm
OOC:
Strength check!
Apr 5, 2017 7:35 pm
OOC:
Str check!

Rolls

Strength - (1d20+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Apr 5, 2017 7:38 pm
Kalis strains against the sarcophagus, but the stone lid does not budge.
Apr 5, 2017 7:43 pm
"Someone wanna give me a hand here?" Kalis asks of his stronger companions.
Apr 6, 2017 7:08 pm
As the others inspect the chamber, an invisible presence manifests next to Coda.

Kalis finds assistance in opening the sarcophagus.
OOC:
Make another Strength check, with advantage.
Apr 6, 2017 7:18 pm
Kalis tries again to open it.

Rolls

Strength (Adv) - (1d20+1, 1d20+1)

1d20+1 : (9) + 1 = 10

1d20+1 : (6) + 1 = 7

Apr 6, 2017 7:23 pm
Heaving and getting their backs into it, Kalis and his partner strain against the heavy stone lid. There is a brief grinding of stone and the lid shifts, but only moves an inch before everyone needs a breather.
Apr 7, 2017 11:45 pm
Coda runs to catch up to the group "I did it guys, I did it!" he ecstatically calls out "I created..." as he makes his way closer to the room his sentence cuts off "I don't like this room. Anyone want to check on that other door with me?" regardless of any takers, Coda turns and makes his way back to the jammed door.
Apr 8, 2017 9:46 pm
Maenor smiles at Coda's pronouncement then sets his back to help Kalis once more.

Rolls

heave ho! - (1d20+2)

(14) + 2 = 16

and again! - (1d20+2)

(13) + 2 = 15

Apr 10, 2017 5:06 pm
This time the lid slides across the stone. The momentum of the push tips its center of gravity and the lid teeters against the edge only briefly, before thudding to the ground, resting against the sarcophagus.

Inside is a dust-covered skeleton, clad in a suit of chainmail. The leather and fabric underneath the armor has disintegrated, but the metal links look serviceable, if not a bit dull from age. A diadem of tarnished gold is around the hood, crowning the skull. An aged longsword sits by the skeleton's right hand, stuck inside a wooden scabbard with decorative iron bands. Resting across the skeleton's lower torso and legs is a tower shield, adorned with the symbol of an open eye. Small clay urns, similar to those outside the sarcophagus, lie at the skeleton's waist, next to a metal flask with the same eye symbol carved on one side.

Coda hears footsteps following him as he joins the group, as his invisible servant stands ready to obey. And again, when the halfling goes back to the jammed door.

Map
Apr 12, 2017 7:25 am
Coda knocks on the door, for no other reason than good manners, then places his ear to the door for a few moments and listens.
Apr 12, 2017 9:13 am
Maenor inspects the metal flask.
Apr 12, 2017 12:58 pm
Kalis tries to open one of the urns to see what's inside.
Apr 12, 2017 3:55 pm
Coda hears no response on the other side of the door.

Maenor picks up the metal flask, and can feel the weight of liquid within. Removing the stopper, he sees and smells water.
CancerMan sent a note to marithyme
It is easy to crack the seal on the urn, but Kalis knows even before he opens it that it contains coins; 20 silver, to be precise. The second urn contains 10 gold pieces. The third and final urn contains gemstones: two tiger eyes, one lapis lazuli (10 gp each), and one diamond (50 gp).
Apr 13, 2017 8:17 am
Coda observes the bottom of the door.
OOC:
How flush is it with the floor?
Apr 13, 2017 3:27 pm
The door is not flush with the floor, with perhaps a quarter of an inch of space. No light or movement can be seen originating from the other side, as far as Coda is able to tell in his own torchlight.
Apr 14, 2017 4:39 am
Coda will extinguish his torch and rest it on the door then check the under gap to see if any light is coming from behind the door. If not he'll relight the torch while it's resting on the door.
Apr 14, 2017 5:29 am
No light can be seen through the gap.
Apr 14, 2017 5:54 am
Coda will back away from the door and issue his Unseen Servant to do the same then he'll sit down and wait for whatever happens with the burning torch left on the door.
Apr 14, 2017 6:00 am
The torch continues to burn, singing the door.
OOC:
What are the rest of you doing?
Apr 14, 2017 8:31 pm
Maenor looks to Kalis, "Shall we search the next?"
Apr 15, 2017 1:06 am
Maenor and Kalis perform the same ritual of opening the middle sarcophagus, whose lid eventually gives way to reveal another skeleton clad in chainmail. The adornments, shield, and sword are the same as the other, complete with iron flask full of water and clay urns full of coins and gemstones (15 silver, 5 gold, and 3 onyx stones worth 50 gp each).
Apr 15, 2017 1:48 am
"Last one?" Kalis asks, nearly out of energy.
Apr 15, 2017 7:19 am
The third and last sarcophagus reveals yet another chainmail-clad skeleton, also with a shield, sword, and diadem. There is another iron flask filled with water, but there are only two clay urns (21 silver pieces, and 5 gold pieces).

Coda's torch continues to light the hallway, but the flames appear to only singe the door and leave black marks. Coda's servant waits patiently for orders.
Apr 15, 2017 9:20 am
Coda rubs his chin before retrieving the torch from the door "Magic door, I suppose." he makes his way back to where he was standing, takes off his sling then loads up a bullet and slings it at the wall.
OOC:
I'll do this until one punches through or sticks, let me know if you need more rolls.

Rolls

Sling hit - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d20+6)

1d20+6 : (12) + 6 = 18

1d20+6 : (12) + 6 = 18

1d20+6 : (7) + 6 = 13

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

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

Sling Damage - (1d4+4, 1d4+4, 1d4+4, 1d4+4, 1d4+4)

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

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

1d4+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

1d4+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

1d4+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

Apr 15, 2017 3:14 pm
The impacts echo throughout the hallway. Coda aims for the charred spot and it takes three bullets until the plank is fractured and a small hole is punched through the door.
Apr 15, 2017 3:21 pm
Maenor checks the other flasks of water, and if they have the same properties as the first gives one each to Kalis and Daniel. Then he goes to see what Coda is up to.
Apr 15, 2017 3:25 pm
Kalis and Daniel now have a flask of holy water.
Apr 16, 2017 3:57 am
Coda jumps and claps in excitement as he punches through the door; he makes his way back over to the door, tying his sling back around his head and pulling another bullet from his pouch. Reaching the door, he sees if the bullet is easily deposited through the small hole. He turns to his servant "Can...can you fit under the door?"
Apr 16, 2017 7:10 am
The hole in the door is more like a crack the width and height of a flattened hand or sword blade shoved into it, and the bullet is easily slipped through and clatters against the floor.

Coda receives no response from the mindless servant. Maenor, in fact, steps around the corner just as Coda asks the question.
Apr 17, 2017 2:30 pm
Maenor looks at Coda quizzically, "I very much doubt that I can."
Apr 17, 2017 3:10 pm
Coda jumps in surprise, oblivious to Maenor approaching "Oh, Maenor, Maenor, come come." he motions over to the door "I managed to make a pee hole for the door and am able to fit these through it." he digs in his pouch and pulls out another bullet "I could use another brain on this. Anything in your repertoire that could make use of my pee hole and this bullet?"
Apr 18, 2017 9:25 am
Maenor smiles, "Indeed I do." He takes the bullet and murmurs some words over it, after which it begins to glow brightly. Maenor presents it back to Coda with a flourish.
Apr 18, 2017 9:59 am
Coda smiles "Hey, you're pretty...bright." he chuckles to himself as he grabs the bullet, pushing it into the hole and viewing the room.
OOC:
His pun made him laugh more than I thought apparently.
Last edited April 18, 2017 10:00 am

Rolls

Perception, if needed - (1d20+5)

(2) + 5 = 7

Apr 18, 2017 1:17 pm
Kalis joins the others at the door, "What do you see?"
Apr 18, 2017 1:31 pm
Coda shrugs "Nothing that you would need to use a pee hole on. Now we just need a way to open it now."
Last edited April 18, 2017 1:31 pm
Apr 18, 2017 4:17 pm
The Light-infused bullet clatters and bounces once before it settles and and illuminates the room. Coda can see a chamber bereft of furniture, with plain walls. Several hundreds of bones lie scattered across the stone floor like a thick carpet.

There are three other doors against each wall of the next room.

Map
Apr 18, 2017 4:39 pm
"Might it be easier to just clear the zombie room than to deal with trying to get through these doors?"
Last edited April 18, 2017 4:39 pm
Apr 18, 2017 5:35 pm
"Unless someone has a way to unstick a stuck door, I think that is our best course. While it isn't ideal, there isn't much else we haven't explored."
Apr 18, 2017 5:38 pm
"Well, if we want to really hurt them, we could light some oil in their path, let them crisp up a little bit before they reach us... though we might have to deal with flaming zombies then..." Kalis muses, "Of course, it looks like we found some holy water, too, so that might be useful here."
Last edited April 18, 2017 5:39 pm
Apr 18, 2017 5:58 pm
"I may have something that could work, in theory, it is a bit risky but so is facing a mob of undead in close quarters. If we are going to fight them anyway I'd like to at least try it out first before we all act. Maybe it'd give us a better advantage and, if it fails, we'd just fall back to our current plan of attack."
Apr 18, 2017 8:08 pm
OOC:
Has anyone tried forcing this one open first?
Apr 18, 2017 8:09 pm
OOC:
No one has tried.
Apr 18, 2017 8:10 pm
OOC:
I ain't the "kick down the door" type, so I'm out of that equation :)
Apr 18, 2017 8:14 pm
Maenor smiles, "Anyone care to give me a hand? I'd like to try to open this one before facing a gaggle of zombies."

Rolls

strength - (1d20+2)

(14) + 2 = 16

with advantage if someone helps - (1d20+2)

(8) + 2 = 10

Apr 18, 2017 8:26 pm
Straining against time, Maenor pulls against the door. There is a creak, the thunder of wood stretching, and a final crack as the door is flung open. Maenor barely keeps his footing, but the door is now open.

The chamber would be dark, were it not for the Light-infused bullet that rests next to the threshold. Everyone can now see what Coda saw, an empty chamber save for the hundreds of bones scattered across the floor, and the three other doors against each wall.
Apr 18, 2017 10:38 pm
Coda grins at Maenor "Very nice work!" he turns to his servant "Explore the bone room for us, please."
Apr 18, 2017 10:46 pm
Coda senses that his shapeless servant drifts into the room. Unfortunately, no one can see what it is doing, but one imagines that it is looking around.
Apr 18, 2017 10:59 pm
"Seems safe enough." Coda shrugs then claps his hands "Here's what I'm thinking now, if we still want to go into the zombie room, we can split two and two and cover both doors. One group opens their door, attacks then closes the door and when the zombies are distracted by that group, the other group opens their door, attacks then closes the door. Or we can see what is behind these new doors."
Apr 19, 2017 3:10 am
Kalis pats Maenor on the shoulder, "Good job friend, saves us some trouble!" he says as he walks into the room. After listening to Coda's plan, Kalis nods his agreement, Makes sense to me. They don't have working brains to think of a counter-plan... right?"

Kalis has to stop and think of what he might know of zombies...

Rolls

Int check (+4 if Arcana or History, +2 otherwise) - (1d20+2)

(15) + 2 = 17

Apr 19, 2017 7:02 am
Cursed or infused with necromantic magic, the bodies of the deceased become animated and mindless. Some necromancers forces zombies to do their bidding through willpower or their own evil magics, but without a leader zombies will pursue and kill anything that comes into their vicinity, often taking the most-direct route to their quarry.

As Kalis considers the nature of zombies, he crosses the threshold into the room. There is a rattling sound, and the hundreds of bones start to quiver and shake against the stone floor. Now comes the sound like the waterfall of cascading dust, and the bones start to draw into themselves, forming into seven distinct piles.

The piles grow as bones link up with each other, tibia to femur, to hip, to spine. Ribs link together and fuse to sternum, clavicle and scapula secure humerus, radius and ulna draw forth the tiny bones of the hand. Finally, a skull rolls up to crest the now-fully-formed skeleton.

Seven skeletons stand there for a moment, then as one they turn their heads in your direction and begin walking towards you, arms outstretched for a cold embrace.
OOC:
Combat! You've won initiative and can act first.

Coda: AC 15 (Leather), 22/22 HP
Daniel: AC 16 (Studded Leather), 20/20 HP
Kalis: AC 16 (Draconic), 20/20 HP
Maenor: AC 17 (Leather + Shield), 20/20 HP

Skeleton1: AC 13, 11/11 HP
Skeleton2: AC 13, 11/11 HP
Skeleton3: AC 13, 13/13 HP
Skeleton4: AC 13, 18/18 HP
Skeleton5: AC 13, 12/12 HP
Skeleton6: AC 13, 19/19 HP
Skeleton7: AC 13, 14/14 HP
Map
Apr 19, 2017 5:48 pm
Coda draws his lute and inspires Kalis with a gentle strum before whispering magic to the skeleton in melee with him.
OOC:

Dissonant Whispers
Target: S1

Rolls

DC 14 - (3d6)

(213) = 6

Apr 19, 2017 5:56 pm
The discordant melody hums through the air, and Coda's arcane words carry along with the tune. The skeleton's lower jaw chatters and it lifts its hands to its head as though trying to drown out the sound in non-existent ears, then it turns and skitters away from Kalis.

Rolls

Skeleton Wisdom Save - (1d20-1)

(10) - 1 = 9

Apr 19, 2017 6:08 pm
OOC:
Kalis can take an OA if he wanted to, right?
Apr 19, 2017 6:14 pm
OOC:
Yes, if he so desires.
Apr 20, 2017 4:11 pm
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Kalis (can react for an OA)
Maenor
Apr 20, 2017 4:15 pm
"Ahh!" Kalis shouts before firing a bolt of fire at S2, and then backing out of the room. He also takes a swing at the retreating skeleton with his staff.
Last edited April 20, 2017 4:16 pm

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (4) = 4

Staff attack (OA) - (1d20+3, 1d8+1)

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

1d8+1 : (7) + 1 = 8

Apr 20, 2017 4:25 pm
The retreating skeleton, turning its back to Kalis, is unprepared for the quarterstaff that smashes through its shoulder and neck. The skull separates from the body, and with a clatter the bones seem to lose the dark forces that bind them and fall to the floor.

The fiery bolt explodes against the other skeleton's ribs, causing it to stagger a bit. It remains standing and still intent on Kalis, even as the sorcerer retreats from the room.
OOC:
Skeleton1: DEAD
Skeleton2: AC 13, 7/11 HP
Skeleton3: AC 13, 13/13 HP
Skeleton4: AC 13, 18/18 HP
Skeleton5: AC 13, 12/12 HP
Skeleton6: AC 13, 19/19 HP
Skeleton7: AC 13, 14/14 HP
Apr 21, 2017 9:17 am
Maenor calls holy fire upon the injured skeleton.

Rolls

Holy Flame (dex save DC 14), radiant damage - (1d8)

(2) = 2

Apr 21, 2017 3:59 pm
Maenor calculates the speed and direction of the skeleton to time his holy radiant flame, but the impact from the Fire Bolt wasn't factored into the equation as the skeleton is stalled by the impact, and the sacred fire spills onto the floor.

Rolls

Dexterity Save - (1d20+2)

(12) + 2 = 14

Apr 24, 2017 4:42 pm
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Apr 25, 2017 5:40 pm
Daniel finds it difficult to get past the press of bodies in the hallway, and lacking any ranged weapon decides to draw his rapier and remain where he is to guard the flank.

The skeletons amble forward to fill the space left by Kalis. However, the foremost skeleton reaches the threshold and stops, jawbone agape. It reaches for Coda, but does not take a step beyond the doorway. The other skeletons behind press in, but seem unable to get past, and the entire bunch remains by the door.
OOC:
Player turn!

Coda: AC 15 (Leather), 22/22 HP
Daniel: AC 16 (Studded Leather), 20/20 HP
Kalis: AC 16 (Draconic), 20/20 HP
Maenor: AC 17 (Leather + Shield), 20/20 HP

Skeleton2: AC 13, 7/11 HP
Skeleton3: AC 13, 13/13 HP
Skeleton4: AC 13, 18/18 HP
Skeleton5: AC 13, 12/12 HP
Skeleton6: AC 13, 19/19 HP
Skeleton7: AC 13, 14/14 HP
Map
Apr 25, 2017 6:16 pm
"Interesting..." Coda sends a mental command to his servant to bang on the door to create a lot of noise then move away. "I want to investigate further with this new found knowledge." he takes off under Kalis and down the hall.
OOC:
Bonus Action: Banging the top door then moving down, it has a 15 feet movement so I think that works.
Movement/Dash action: 50 feet down the hall.
Halfling nimbleness: Move through larger creatures' spaces.
Apr 25, 2017 6:21 pm
Kalis steps up, fires a bolt of fire at the lead skeleton and then steps out of the way.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (9) = 9

Apr 25, 2017 6:22 pm
The door reverberates as something knocks upon it repeatedly for a few seconds. The skeletons in the room do not seem interested in the noise, but two in the back of the group turn towards the door at the sound.

The lead skeleton shatters as the bolt explodes in flame against its sternum, scattering bones back into the room.
OOC:
Skeleton1: DEAD
Skeleton2: DEAD
Skeleton3: AC 13, 13/13 HP
Skeleton4: AC 13, 18/18 HP
Skeleton5: AC 13, 12/12 HP
Skeleton6: AC 13, 19/19 HP
Skeleton7: AC 13, 14/14 HP
Apr 25, 2017 11:21 pm
Maenor reaches out once more to the holy fire.
OOC:
vs. S4
Last edited April 25, 2017 11:21 pm

Rolls

Holy Flame (dex save DC 14), radiant damage - (1d8)

(8) = 8

Apr 25, 2017 11:34 pm
The flames descend and envelop the skeleton, which clatters as it is immersed in holy fire.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Map

Rolls

Dexterity Save - (1d20+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Apr 26, 2017 12:28 am
OOC:
Can I reach any of them to stab them?
Apr 26, 2017 12:51 am
OOC:
You could spend 15' of movement to reach the doorway and stab Skeleton3.
Apr 26, 2017 1:56 am
OOC:
Then that's what I'm doing, then I'll Disengage as a bonus action and use the rest of my movement.

Rolls

Rapier - (1d20+6, 1d8+4)

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

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

Apr 26, 2017 2:32 am
Daniel slips into the doorway and thrusts his rapier into the chest of the nearest skeleton, severing ribs and nicking the spine. Just as the skeleton reaches for him, Daniel spins away and slides further back down the hallway.

A charred skeleton ambles up to the doorway, filling the empty space. It reaches towards Maenor, but does not draw near.

With most of the party outside the room, everyone can clearly see that the undead appear unable or unwilling to cross the threshold. It takes a few minutes, but secure in the knowledge that the skeletons cannot harm you, you whittle them down until they are nothing more than inanimate piles of broken bone.

Meanwhile, Coda reaches the other chamber with the rusted swords and shields, and stands before the closed door.
OOC:
Combat over!

What will you do now?
Apr 26, 2017 2:43 am
Coda approaches the door and tries to open it as quietly as he can, he'll send a command to his servant to bang on the door he did before as he opens his.
OOC:
Just to note: Unseen Servant might of ended as I think I moved 60 feet away from it.
Apr 26, 2017 3:00 am
Coda cracks the door open silently, and his nose is assailed by the smell of rotting flesh. Even before he opens the door further, he hears the sound of several knocks on the far side of the room. As the light spills into the chamber, Coda can see that the zombies are gathered by the other door.
OOC:
You're good on the range between yourself and the servant. I am assuming you brought your torch.
Apr 26, 2017 4:29 am
Coda draws his sling and loads it with a bullet, flinging it at one of the zombies. He'll move off to the side out of the view of the door.
OOC:
I rolled advantage for being hidden, if it was just flavor wise and not mechanic wise and I'm not "hidden", I'll use the inspiration die I have for advantage.
Last edited April 26, 2017 4:30 am

Rolls

Attack/Damage (z1) - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d4+4)

1d20+6 : (16) + 6 = 22

1d20+6 : (1) + 6 = 7

1d4+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

Halfling Lucky - (1d20+6)

(10) + 6 = 16

Apr 26, 2017 6:57 am
The bullet smacks into the back of the zombie's head. It turns and begins to head for the north door, followed by the others.

Back in the room with the former-skeletons, the others hear a knock at the far door, like three evenly-spaced taps against the wood. They are unable to see what might have caused the noise.
Apr 27, 2017 4:27 pm
Coda can hear the dragging pace of the zombies nearing the door he left open. Then the sound stops, replaced by a shuffling noise like something is moving in place.
OOC:
What are the rest of you doing?
Apr 27, 2017 4:42 pm
Kalis moves into the skeleton room and tries to open the north door to see the status of the zombies.
Apr 27, 2017 5:00 pm
The zombies are gathered by the northern door, which is open; they are not moving beyond its threshold.

Kalis can see that a few of the zombies have turned their heads in his direction, and seem ready to move towards him.
Apr 27, 2017 5:07 pm
Kalis fires a bolt of flames at the nearest zombie.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (4) = 4

Apr 27, 2017 5:15 pm
The flames explode into the shoulder of the zombie, which attracts the attention of the others.
OOC:
You have the initiative!

Kalis took his action, the rest of you may go.

Coda: AC 15 (Leather), 22/22 HP
Daniel: AC 16 (Studded Leather), 20/20 HP
Kalis: AC 16 (Draconic), 20/20 HP
Maenor: AC 17 (Leather + Shield), 20/20 HP

Zombie1: AC 8, 19/25 HP
Zombie2: AC 8, 27/27 HP
Zombie3: AC 8, 21/21 HP
Zombie4: AC 8, 27/27 HP
Zombie5: AC 8, 22/22 HP
Zombie6: AC 8, 30/30 HP
Zombie7: AC 8, 22/26 HP
Map
Apr 27, 2017 6:57 pm
Coda calls out to the other side of the room "Careful, they can't pass through over here but I don't know if I can say the same for over there." he mentally commands his servant to close the door as he loads another bullet and swings it towards the same zombie.

Rolls

Attack/Damage - (1d20+6, 1d4+4)

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

1d4+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

Apr 27, 2017 7:11 pm
Coda's bullet tears off a chunk of rotted flesh from the zombie in front of his door. It reaches its arms out for him when he appears.

The door in front of Kalis closes by itself, leaving him alone with a carpet of bones.
May 1, 2017 5:20 pm
OOC:
Action left to take:
Daniel
Maenor

The door in the skeleton room has been closed, but open on Coda's side.
May 1, 2017 11:59 pm
Maenor makes his way to Coda's door.
OOC:
(will probably take two turns)
May 2, 2017 12:13 am
Maenor can see the zombies at the threshold, arms reaching out. They do not cross over.
May 3, 2017 4:07 pm
Not wanting to leave Kalis alone, Daniel steps into the skeleton room, rapier drawn and ready to assist.

Once the southern door is closed, all zombies refocus their attentions on the open portal where Coda and Maenor are. They stretch their arms beyond the doorway, reaching for the halfling and elf, but their feet do not cross the threshold.
OOC:
Player turn!

Coda: AC 15 (Leather), 22/22 HP
Daniel: AC 16 (Studded Leather), 20/20 HP
Kalis: AC 16 (Draconic), 20/20 HP
Maenor: AC 17 (Leather + Shield), 20/20 HP

Zombie1: AC 8, 13/25 HP
Zombie2: AC 8, 27/27 HP
Zombie3: AC 8, 21/21 HP
Zombie4: AC 8, 27/27 HP
Zombie5: AC 8, 22/22 HP
Zombie6: AC 8, 30/30 HP
Zombie7: AC 8, 22/26 HP
Map
May 3, 2017 11:23 pm
Maenor moves to a better position and casts at the lead zombie.

Rolls

Sacred Flame (Dex Save DC 14), radiant damage - (1d8)

(3) = 3

May 3, 2017 11:29 pm
OOC:
Do either Maenor or Coda plan on entering the zombie room? Will Kalis or Daniel open the door?
May 3, 2017 11:35 pm
OOC:
Not me. This is way easier.
May 4, 2017 12:06 am
Coda loads up another shot and flings it at the crowd of zombies.
OOC:
Same as Maenor.

Rolls

Attack/Damage - (1d20+6, 1d4+4)

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

1d4+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

Crit - (1d4)

(3) = 3

May 4, 2017 4:28 pm
Coda and Maenor make quick work of the zombies from a safe distance. Soon a pile of rotted bodies lie piled up in the doorway, effectively blocking access.
OOC:
What would you all like to do now?
Map
May 4, 2017 7:13 pm
Now that the sounds of battle have ended, Kalis will open the door and move into the room.
May 4, 2017 8:15 pm
Aside from the pile of bodies by the northern door, the room is empty. No furniture can be seen and the walls are bare.

There is a closed door on the western side of the room.
May 5, 2017 12:30 am
Coda clasps his hands together and smiles "Very nice work, friend." he spins on his heels and holds up an open palm to Maenor.
May 5, 2017 9:10 am
Maenor smiles, "Yes indeed, we make an excellent team! And as we are friends, there is no need to raise your hand to speak." His friendly tone makes it clear that he has no idea what Coda is actually doing.
May 5, 2017 9:45 am
"I...what? No, no, no don't tell me you've never done a high-five before." Coda pauses briefly as he looks over the tall elf then over himself "Well, I guess it'd be a low-five with me. Okay, so there is a lot of variations but since you are new to this we'll start off simple; now you just hit your palm against mine, cheering optional."
May 6, 2017 11:05 am
Both of Maenor's eyebrows raise as he remarks, "Facinating!" He raises a hand and smacks his palm against Coda's while cheerily shouting, "OPTIONAL!".

He smiles eagerly and asks, "Did I perform the ritual correctly? Am I now also a 'high five'?"
May 8, 2017 3:56 am
Coda's jaw hangs wide open before shifting into a wide smile "You performed it beyond correctly! I'd say that was one of the best high-fives I've witnessed, by far! Come now, we should regroup with the others. I heard Daniel's a pretty good high-fiver, you should test out your new found skill with him."
May 8, 2017 11:44 am
Daniel is checking the bodies.
May 8, 2017 4:34 pm
The zombies have nothing save tattered clothing and rotting flesh, pieces of both coming off in Daniel's hands.
May 8, 2017 9:30 pm
Kalis moves over to the door that the zombies seemed to be guarding and looks it over to see if there's anything notable about it.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(11) + 4 = 15

May 8, 2017 10:39 pm
The door is plain, and does not appear to be stuck nor locked. Kalis does not notice anything odd about the door, nor does he find anything that might indicate a trap or other trigger mechanism in the area.

Opening the door reveals a small storage room. There are a number of hooked blades and bent knives on a shelf, along with empty clay urns of various sizes. Kalis believes the tools were used to prepare bodies for whatever ceremonies and rites were performed after a person's death.

Map
May 10, 2017 4:25 pm
There are two other doors in the skeleton room. The door on the south wall appears to be locked, but the one on the east wall is not.
May 10, 2017 11:59 pm
Maenor eagerly seeks out Daniel to practice his new skill, but changes his mind when he sees the state of his companion's hands.
OOC:
My vote is unlocked door next!
May 11, 2017 2:02 am
Coda follows behind Maenor, a large grin on his face at the thought of Maenor trying to high-five a blind man; it fades slightly as it doesn't play out.
OOC:
I vote for the unlocked door, as well.
Last edited May 11, 2017 2:02 am
May 11, 2017 4:56 pm
Opening the unlocked door reveals a long hallway of bare stone; not even a sconce can be found. From your vantage point by the door, the hall extends beyond the 60 feet of vision that the party can see, and there is a branching corridor a little over halfway down.

Map
May 12, 2017 12:08 am
Maenor stops practicing high-fives and proceeds cautiously down the corridor, watching and listening carefully as he goes.
May 12, 2017 1:26 am
marithyme says:
Maenor stops practicing high-fives...
OOC:
Haha, I love it.
Coda follows after Maenor, gesturing to his Servant to follow him.
May 12, 2017 4:17 pm
Venturing further into the hallway, Maenor can see that the passage leads to a set of stairs that descend into darkness. The side corridor bends southward beyond Maenor's vision.
OOC:
Inspiration for Maenor and Coda!
Map
May 16, 2017 2:55 am
Kalis follows the others, eyes sweeping back and forth, looking for any other signs of what this place might have been.
May 16, 2017 7:04 am
In general, this place feels like a tomb. Kalis can infer that the acolytes of the Eye of Ios probably used this tomb to inter their dead and perform ceremonies and rites dealing with the passage into the afterlife.
OOC:
Make an Investigation check to see if you can deduce more.
May 16, 2017 10:42 pm
OOC:
Investigation

Edit: Nailed it!
Last edited May 16, 2017 10:42 pm

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+2)

(20) + 2 = 22

May 16, 2017 11:17 pm
Kalis hypothesizes that the tomb's purpose changed over time. Early chambers may have been to honor the fallen, but later additions were meant to keep the dead within like a prison. The warding eyes do not seem to hold any noticeable magic, but the odd behavior of the skeletons and zombies unable to cross a threshold opposite one of these carvings would imply there is some power behind them. He might learn more given enough time for careful study and research, but it does hint at being a fascinating subject.

Kalis remembers that the old goblin mentioned that something unseemly was within this tomb. Did the goblin venture into these hallways? Impossible, thus far each chamber and hallway showed no passage of anything mortal. How did it know? Kalis decides to try and extend his senses and meditate on his environment, tapping into the energy within these catacombs. Perhaps aided by the proximity to the stairs, he starts to feel something dark and malevolent emanating from below.
May 18, 2017 4:04 pm
OOC:
Which way does the party wish to go?
May 18, 2017 5:16 pm
Kalis shivers, "There's something bad down below, I can feel it..."
May 18, 2017 6:29 pm
Once Kalis points that out, everyone else in the party senses a terrible presence.
May 18, 2017 10:02 pm
Maenor stands straighter. "Then surely that is the foe that we have been sent to vanquish."
May 18, 2017 11:02 pm
"Should we deal with it now or continue to explore in hopes to find things that are advantageous to our mission?"
May 22, 2017 12:17 am
At the word "explore" Maenor's eyes light up, "A splendid idea! The holy water we discovered will surely be useful; perhaps there is more we can find."
May 22, 2017 6:01 pm
Reasoning that the stairs aren't likely to go anywhere, the party takes the side passage. The hallway travels in a brief S-shape before straightening out westward to a large iron portcullis that rests closed.

Beyond the portcullis, in the center of the room, is a smashed stone table. Two large sections lie cracked in the middle, and pieces of the edges have enormous chunks broken off of it. Amidst the rubble lie three skeletons, crushed and sundered underneath disintegrating robes darkened by stains and the passage of time. A variety of knifes and long pointed tools are scattered about the room, along with pieces of parchment.

In the southwest corner of this room is a closed door.

As your eyes adjust to the darkness, you begin to make out a large statue on the far end of the room. Something about its construction seems off, like the sculptor had no plan nor symmetry in mind when creating it. Then it hits you, about the same time as an unbearable stench of long decay assails your nose; that is no statue, but rather a giant of a zombie.

Ogre-sized, its distended belly is swollen to the point of tearing in places, spilling entrails down its waist like an organic loincloth. Numerous scars fill its chest while its arms appear to have been stitched to its body. Its bald head is missing its lower jaw, leaving a perpetual unholy scream in your imagination. Two pale white eyes stare across at the portcullis and your approach, but it does not yet move.
OOC:
The portcullis is closed. What do you do?
Map
May 23, 2017 12:06 am
Maenor looks around for a release for the portcullis, more to make sure the monstrosity can't get at them should it change its mind about its current immobility.

He suggests, "Perhaps we should investigate in a different direction? Or if we must go this way, attack from behind the protection of the portuculis? That looks...messy."
May 23, 2017 12:18 am
Maenor does not see any obvious signs of a mechanism to open the portcullis, but he does see that same worn-down hole in the bottom crossbar.
May 23, 2017 1:10 am
"I vote investigate a different direction." Coda raises his hand.
May 23, 2017 2:04 am
"Well, if none of the other monsters here have been able to leave..." Kalis says slowly, "Perhaps we'll be able to pick this one off from a distance as well?"
May 23, 2017 5:16 am
As the party converses, the creature at the far end of the room does not move.
May 24, 2017 5:11 am
"Be ready..." Kalis says before he launches a fire bolt at the zombified ogre.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (7) = 7

May 24, 2017 11:15 pm
The magical flame zips between the bars of the portcullis and explodes against the large zombie's chest. The rotted and distended body shudders into motion, and its head lifts up to gaze unblinking at the hallway. It slowly leans forward and with plodding, heavy steps begins to advance towards the portcullis. As it approaches, the sharp metal scrape of a spiked club drags along the floor, clasped in its hand.
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
May 24, 2017 11:57 pm
Maenor calls forth holy flame once more.
[ +- ] Sacred Flame

Rolls

damage - (1d8)

(6) = 6

May 25, 2017 12:10 am
The divine flames cascade upon the large zombie, burning parts of its flesh off from its bald head and bare shoulders.

Rolls

Dexterity Save - (1d20-2)

(5) - 2 = 3

May 25, 2017 4:34 pm
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Coda
Daniel
Kalis

The portcullis is closed.
May 25, 2017 7:08 pm
Kalis launches another fire bolt at the ogre zombie

Rolls

Fire bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (6) = 6

May 25, 2017 7:27 pm
The flames explode against the zombified ogre, who does not slow its stride towards the portcullis.
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
May 26, 2017 12:32 am
Coda readies a spell for when the ogre gets closer and if it attempts to break the portcullis.
May 26, 2017 12:40 am
OOC:
What spell are you readying?
May 26, 2017 12:45 am
OOC:
Forgot you had to call out the spell, I'm readying Dissonant Whispers.
May 26, 2017 12:49 am
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
May 29, 2017 1:04 am
Daniel draws his rapier, readying an attack should the zombie nears.

The animated ogre lumbers forward, spiked morningstar screeching metal against the stone. It steps past the shattered table and reaches the portcullis. With its free hand, it grabs the bars and begins to lift, deceased muscle and sinew possessive of unnatural strength.

At that moment, arcane lyrics of cacophonous whispers assault its dead ears, and at the same time Daniel's rapier slips through the portcullis.

Rolls

Wisdom Save - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Rapier vs Ogre Zombie, Piercing Damage - (1d20+6, 1d8+4)

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

1d8+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

May 29, 2017 1:08 am
The zombie releases its hold on the portcullis, shaking its head and sending drips of rotted flesh and slime scattering about. It backs away from the gateway, stumbling to the far wall.

Daniel thrusts with his rapier once more as the creature retreats.

Rolls

Opportunity Attack vs Ogre Zombie, Piercing Damage - (1d20+6, 1d8+4)

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

1d8+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

May 29, 2017 1:09 am
OOC:
Player turn!

Coda, go ahead and roll damage for Dissonant Whispers.
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
May 29, 2017 1:21 am
"Thank the Gods you stepped away, your stench is enough to wake the dead...Oh wait, it did!"
OOC:
Casting Vicious Mockery as this turns action.

Rolls

Dissonant Whisper - (3d6)

(155) = 11

Vicious Mockery (Wis. Save DC 14) - (1d4)

(4) = 4

May 29, 2017 1:26 am
The zombie's deadened expression shows little reaction, but the jowls of its cheeks flutter as a low moan escapes the cavernous maw.

Rolls

Wisdom Save - (1d20)

(16) = 16

May 29, 2017 9:14 am
Maenor steps gingerly behind Daniel as the slimy remains fly, and casts his spell again.

Rolls

Sacred Flame (Dex Save DC 14), radiant damage - (1d8)

(2) = 2

May 30, 2017 12:05 am
Kalis casually tosses another bolt of fire at the zombie, trusting in the portcullis to keep them safe.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (3) = 3

May 30, 2017 4:23 am
The radiant flames seem to have no effect on the zombie, but the arcane fire blasts into its chest.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel

Rolls

Dexterity Save - (1d20-2)

(16) - 2 = 14

May 31, 2017 4:52 pm
Daniel readies himself by the portcullis.

The ogre zombie seems to shake itself free of whatever enchantment assailed its undead senses, and plods towards the party. It reaches the portcullis just as Daniel's rapier thrusts out and into the large creature's body. With its free hand, the zombie grabs the portcullis and lifts, shoving the metal gate up into the ceiling. A soft, yet discernable click can be heard and the portcullis seems to be secured in place, save for the lower bar that remains exposed.

The ogre zombie takes another step forward, getting up into Daniel's face. Its entrails swing with each step, dripping black ooze across the floor.
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map

Rolls

Rapier vs Ogre Zombie, Piercing Damage - (1d20+6, 1d8+4)

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

1d8+4 : (7) + 4 = 11

May 31, 2017 6:28 pm
With a gasp as the ogre opens the gate and Kalis realizes that the ogre is not confined as the other undead were, Kalis releases some slightly more powerful magic, and three glowing darts of magical force slam into the ogre's chest one after another.

Rolls

Magic Missile - (3d4+3)

(312) + 3 = 9

May 31, 2017 6:32 pm
The ogre zombie shudders from the forceful impact of the arcane bolts, chunks of rotted flesh exploding off to expose bone. Black ooze seeps down the zombie's body.
May 31, 2017 9:40 pm
Maenor continues to slowly chip away at the ogre.

Rolls

Sacred Flame (Dex Save DC 14), radiant damage - (1d8)

(3) = 3

May 31, 2017 10:36 pm
The ogre zombie seems uncaring about the divine flames that descend upon itself, but the damage shows as chunks of rotted flesh singe and burn away.

Rolls

Dexterity Save - (1d20-2)

(2) - 2 = 0

Jun 1, 2017 12:14 am
OOC:
Casting Dissonant Whisper again.
Coda whispers at the ogre, weaving magic within every word; after his spell is completed, he hops forward into the room.

Rolls

Damage (Wis. Save DC 14) - (3d6)

(345) = 12

Jun 1, 2017 12:17 am
The arcane words wash over the zombie's head.

A guttural roar sounds from within the ogre's belly, sending bits of ooze and rotted flesh spilling from the gaping maw. It stumbles backward away from the portcullis.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Map

Rolls

Wisdom Save - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Jun 1, 2017 1:03 am
OOC:
Daniel gets a OA because the ogre used his movement to leave, right?
Jun 1, 2017 1:53 am
HypCo says:
OOC:
Daniel gets a OA because the ogre used his movement to leave, right?
OOC:
Good catch! I totally missed that
Jun 1, 2017 2:38 am
OOC:
Yes, but I leave it to Daniel to decide (he might have a Reaction for something else).
Jun 2, 2017 5:22 pm
As the ogre zombie lurches away, Daniel takes the opportunity to lunge with his rapier. He thrusts the blade deep into the creature's spine, which causes the zombie to shudder in place. The rotting ogre stumbles away, sliding off the sword, and takes two plodding and unsteady steps before collapsing to the ground.
OOC:
Combat over!

What does the party wish to do now?
Map

Rolls

Rapier vs Ogre Zombie, Piercing Damage - (1d20+6, 1d8+4)

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

1d8+4 : (7) + 4 = 11

Jun 2, 2017 10:09 pm
Coda lets out a sigh and makes his way into the room, he takes an immediate right and sits against the wall.
Jun 2, 2017 11:05 pm
Maenor heads into the room to see if anything can be gleaned from the scattered pieces of parchment.
Jun 2, 2017 11:10 pm
With a weak chuckle, Kalis stands up straighter, "Simple," he says, then strides into the room to look around.
Jun 6, 2017 4:41 pm
The pieces of parchment have been damaged by time, but Maenor is able to glean bits of information. The words are written in an older form of Common, with frequent misspellings and abbreviations, and the penmanship is horrible.
OOC:
Make an Investigation check
Kalis finds a few broken knives, spikes, and hooks scattered about the room, as if flung to the walls or smashed against the floor. The table has been cracked down the middle from a great force from above, but Kalis does notice that the surface has a large dark stain that nearly encompasses the whole area.

Nothing else remains of the skeletons except for robes that disintegrate upon touch.
Jun 6, 2017 9:19 pm
Maneor peers more closely at the nearly illegible writing...

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+5)

(12) + 5 = 17

Jun 6, 2017 10:35 pm
It takes a few minutes, but Maenor is able to piece together and recite the following fragments:
[ +- ] Fragment One
[ +- ] Fragment Two
[ +- ] Fragment Three
[ +- ] Fragment Four
Jun 7, 2017 5:10 pm
Kalis bends down to inspect the dark stain, hoping to find out what it is.
OOC:
Is it blood?

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+2)

(13) + 2 = 15

Jun 7, 2017 5:58 pm
Time has made it difficult to identify exactly what it is, but Kalis has seen similar stains of blood and other bodily fluids in tombs and morgues. He is reasonably confident that bodies once laid upon the slab.
Jun 10, 2017 12:53 am
Maenor's lip curls in contempt, "Necromancers." He looks up at his companions with a smile, "Shall we find out what that monster was protecting?" He heads toward the door on the far side of the room and tries to open it.
Jun 10, 2017 2:42 am
Coda stands slowly from the wall then makes his way over to assist Maenor.
Jun 10, 2017 9:52 pm
Kalis nods, "That seems a likely possibility," he says, and watches the others try to open the door.
Jun 11, 2017 12:03 am
The door is not locked, and opens into a long hallway that travels west a fair distance before hooking north to a small room. There isn't much of interest in this chamber, just bundles of rags and folded cloth along the walls. Perhaps this was a storeroom, but whatever laid within has long gone.

There is another open door on the other side of the room. This is a straight hallway that travels north to a closed door.

Map
Jun 11, 2017 1:17 am
OOC:
Probably not but would we be able to piece together that that door leads to the starting room?
"Why did this place have to have soo many closed doors and hallways?" Coda slugs behind the rest, dragging his feet with every step.
Jun 11, 2017 2:36 am
OOC:
Sure. You're all collectively smart enough to put together the map as shown.
Jun 12, 2017 9:27 am
As they arrive back at the main entrance Maenor sighs, "I suppose we must now descend those foul stairs." He leads the way back to them.
Jun 12, 2017 10:22 am
OOC:
Are we wrapping around? If so, Coda will attempt to open that (S,16) door.
Jun 12, 2017 12:15 pm
"Well, there was another door back that way," Kalis says, pointing down the hall.
OOC:
I also vote S16
Jun 12, 2017 6:10 pm
Back at the room with the carpet of bones, the party shuffle through the femurs and kick aside the ribs, clattering a xylophonic melody throughout the chamber.

The door within the southern wall is locked.
Jun 14, 2017 5:33 pm
Daniel settles into position by the locked door. "Let's see," he mumbles, using his small tools to fish into the keyhole.

Rolls

Thieves' Tools, Guidance - (1d20+6, 1d4)

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

1d4 : (4) = 4

Jun 14, 2017 5:49 pm
Unlocking the door proves difficult, and Daniel discovers that in addition to being locked, something's blocking the keyhole from the other side. He manages to turn and push the object free, and everyone hears the clatter of metal against stone opposite the door. Daniel turns the tumblers and the door is unlocked.

Opening the door reveals a small storage room. Stacks of clay urns rest against the walls, some neatly arranged while others appear to have tumbled or fallen into broken piles. All of the urns are empty.

A single skeleton lies in the middle of the room, flimsy robes almost melting around it. There is a metal flask by the remains of a bony hand, empty. A book rests by its ribcage, the cover stained a dull black from time. Many pages disintegrate and flake away, with thick sections seemingly glued together. A few loose sheets of paper contain some legible writing, while the rest of the book is blank.
[ +- ] Old Book
A small metal key rests by the door.
Jun 14, 2017 11:57 pm
Kalis bends down and picks up the book, opening it to see what he can get out of it. After reading it, he sighs, "More of the same. Something went very wrong here," he says, then with determination, "Looks like it's up to us to clean it up!"
Jun 15, 2017 12:05 am
OOC:
Wasn't the fountain dry?
Jun 15, 2017 6:32 am
OOC:
Kalis did find that the fountain was dry, yes.
Jun 17, 2017 1:54 am
Kalis grabs the key, "Let's head downstairs, huh?"
Jun 17, 2017 2:58 am
Coda nods "Yes. If it's of no issue to anyone though, I'd like to be near the back; I'm spent for today but I will back you up as best I can."
Jun 18, 2017 8:23 pm
Maenor nods seriously and takes the lead.
Jun 18, 2017 8:44 pm
You all descend the stairs. With torchlight and darkvision, you can see a long straight hallway stretching to the south. A branching corridor heads eastward, though at this angle you are unable to see where it leads. The hallway itself ends at a turn further down.

As soon as Maenor's foot reaches the bottom step, a blast of wind funnels from beyond. It washes over you all as it moves up the stairs, carrying a reek of decay and death. A low moan echoes around you, reverberating against the stone walls. The hum and vibration sink deep into your bodies like icy talons, and the torch flickers low with the wind to cast you into a shadowy darkness.

The moment passes. The torch comes back to life, and the shadows retreat from your presence.

Map (See "Level 2")
Jun 18, 2017 8:59 pm
Maenor remarks drily, "That was...unsettling."
Jun 20, 2017 7:32 pm
Moving down the hallway, you reach the first branch and find a closed door. A brief inspection shows it to be in the same condition as the door that was stuck on the upper level.
Jun 21, 2017 2:09 am
Kalis shivers as the wind and sound wash over him and he pales a little. He takes a deep breath to center himself and mutters, "Too late to turn back now..." under his breath.

"Maenor, go ahead and open it, we've got your back," Kalis suggests. While they walk, he tries to see if he can feel the evil presence from earlier.
Jun 21, 2017 5:43 am
It is difficult to determine if one can feel the presence of a specific evil, or if is merely the fact that the entire area exudes a dark and foreboding atmosphere. The silence in these passageways seems to open your senses to things that aren't there. The air has a definite chill that threatens to suck the warmth from your bones. A very delicate and deliberate tingle caresses the back of your neck... a sensation not unlike one you would have if someone were standing right behind you.
OOC:
Strength check to break down the door from whomever wishes to try. If someone helps, the check can be made with advantage.
Jun 21, 2017 9:08 am
OOC:
I'll try...anyone able to help?
Jun 21, 2017 11:54 am
Kalis moves to join Maenor, "I'm not much for breaking doors down, but let's give it a shot."
Jun 21, 2017 8:54 pm
OOC:
Grrr! Argh!

Rolls

Strength with advantage (add plus 2) - (2d20)

(1420) = 34

Jun 21, 2017 10:47 pm
The door shatters under the combined impact.

Revealed is a chamber with several rows of rotted and ruined wood benches. These sit in a rough semi-circle facing a closed door in the north wall.

Map (See "Level 2")
Jun 22, 2017 8:46 am
Maenor ponders aloud, "Why build a church in a tomb?"

He heads for the closed door.
Jun 22, 2017 4:08 pm
The door is unlocked and opens easily.

In the room beyond, the walls show bas-relief carvings of figures armored in chainmail and open-faced helmets, each kneeling in supplication. They start from the archway and kneel facing the far end of the room, and where the line of armored figures meet is a standing figure in robes, head wreathed in a halo of light. This figure stands next to a fountain, pouring water from a jug into it with one hand, while the other is lifted to the sky. Rays of light stream down upon the fountain from an open eye floating in the sky, and you see that the rays also traverse the ceiling and touch upon the heads of each kneeling figure.

The floor has a spiraling pattern leading from the walls and focusing at the center, where there is a plain-looking and dry fountain.
Jun 25, 2017 10:25 am
Maenor inspects the carvings, trying to understand their significance.

Rolls

History/Religion - (1d20+5)

(17) + 5 = 22

Jun 26, 2017 4:52 pm
The robed figure is a holy person, given the presence of the halo. Maenor can recognize that the eye is symbolic of a deity, perhaps representing Ios. The armored figures are supplicating themselves to the Eye and through a ritual involving water and a fountain, appear to receive a blessing.

The fountain here in the center of the room does not have any carvings, but there is a stone basin at the top of a column in the middle of a larger bowl. There are small holes in the basin that allows water to flow down the column into the lower section.

As he ponders the carvings, Maenor recalls everything he's experienced in this tomb. He can tell that this place was maintained by acolytes from the ancient religious order, but he knows that the Eye of Ios is no longer active, and Ios itself could be considered a dead god, its name lost save for the dustiest of tomes. This line of thought works its way through his mind as he start to wonder why the religion died out.

And then Maenor remember a small paragraph from his studies. It never mentioned the specific religion by name, but it spoke of how some sects descend from lofty ideals to debased practices. Where once an order stood for goodness and light came forth a cult that turned to dark arts. Such a transformation is never noticeable, nor is it quick. It takes generations of subtle changes, each one seemingly able to justify and normalize the previous, shifting the mindset of the devoted until it no longer resembles what it used to be, and no one questions why it is thus.
Jun 28, 2017 2:14 am
Kalis walks into the room and looks around in awe at the artistry, then takes out some paper and begins to take notes.
Jun 28, 2017 6:47 am
Kalis recalls that the carvings in this room are the same as those surrounding the other fountain on the upper level.
Jun 28, 2017 8:47 am
Maenor looks sad as he ponders the fall of a once bright light, and remembering another scrap of text mutters, "They delved too deep."

He straightens and looks around at his companions, "Come my friends. There is nothing for us here but dusty memories. Let us face this darkness." He strides back into the corridor.
Jun 29, 2017 4:37 pm
"Agreed," Kalis says and puts away his writing tools, following Maenor back into the hall.
Jun 29, 2017 4:52 pm
Proceeding further down the hallway, you come to the bend. The corridor extends eastward for 50 feet to a T-intersection.

Set into the south wall nearby is a closed door.

Map
Jun 30, 2017 12:25 pm
Kalis moves to the door and attempts to open it.
Jun 30, 2017 4:20 pm
At first, the door feels stuck, but there is still some give and it just feels like it is caught on something. Based on the weak resistance, Kalis feels it wouldn't take much strength to force the door open.
OOC:
Do you wish to have a push?
Jun 30, 2017 4:22 pm
Kalis pushes against the door, hoping to pop it open.
OOC:
This won't end well...
Jun 30, 2017 4:44 pm
There is a sharp crack as something brittle snaps and falls from the upper part of the doorjamb. Kalis can see little reflective bits of mineral as two pieces of mica descend past his vision. The door swings open easily.

There is a flash of light from the ceiling. Instinctively looking up, everyone can see the white-hot symbol of a large eye that flares intensely. Just as it seems to reach the point of blindness, the image abruptly winks out, almost collapsing upon itself and sucking all sound into a sudden vacuum.

The silence is shattered as a visible aura of force explodes outward. A crack of thunder accompanies this wave, loud enough to bring you to the point of deafness in its intensity. The door practically disintegrates, and the interior of the room is thrown into chaos as loose object are destroyed and tossed about.
OOC:
Everyone must make a Constitution saving throw vs DC 14 for half damage as the Shatter spell activates.

Rolls

Thunder Damage - (3d8)

(511) = 7

Jun 30, 2017 5:24 pm
OOC:
I think my UA is automatically destroyed.

Rolls

Con. Save - (1d20+3)

(5) + 3 = 8

Jun 30, 2017 5:45 pm
OOC:
Con Save

Rolls

Con Save - (1d20+5)

(15) + 5 = 20

Jun 30, 2017 5:53 pm
OOC:
I've added the damage to the original post.

HypCo takes the massive full amount of damage, 7 points. Kalis saves for 3 points. The Unseen Servant vanishes further from sight.
Jun 30, 2017 8:40 pm
Maenor rocks back as the concussive wave rolls over them.

Rolls

con save - (1d20+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Jul 2, 2017 12:49 pm
"UGH" Kalis groans as the spell washes over him, leaving his whole body throbbing and achy. He shakes it off after a moment and moves carefully into the room, looking for any sign of danger.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

Jul 2, 2017 9:32 pm
Kalis steps into a burial chamber. Small cubbies are set into the walls and were once filled with a variety of crocks, urns, and vials. The magical explosion has broken all of them, mixing their contents into a runny paste that drips down the stone and pools on the floor. More clay pots lie shattered upon the tile, their contents scattered across the room; a hint of sparkle against the torchlight indicates some gemstones and coins were once contained inside.

Seemingly untouched is a stone sarcophagus that rests upright against the far wall, opposite the door. Carved onto the lid is the image of a figure at rest, arms crossed upon its chest and hands clasping what look like symbols of office: a scepter topped with an open eye, and a large rod with a flaming orb. A circle of light halos the figure's head, and robes drape from its shoulders to envelop the body and legs.
Jul 5, 2017 12:09 am
Maenor shakes off the ringing into his ears and steps into the room. Seeing the sarcophagus, he squares his shoulders and sets his shield.

"Prepare yourselves, my friends. This seems likely to hold the foe we seek."
Jul 6, 2017 5:01 pm
Kalis nods, "Who wants to open it?"
Jul 6, 2017 10:07 pm
"Maybe we can knock and he'll nicely answer and save us the trouble." Coda stays back, letting the more sturdy of the bunch take lead.
Jul 6, 2017 10:35 pm
The sarcophagus remains still, its lid closed.
Jul 7, 2017 12:19 am
Maenor walks forward cautiously.
Jul 7, 2017 12:31 am
Maenor is able to get close to the sarcophagus. Nothing else moves, and the lid remains shut.

Map
Jul 7, 2017 12:33 pm
"Go ahead and open it," Kalis urges softly, "I'll be ready to back you up with my magic."
Jul 8, 2017 12:10 am
Maenor attempts to open the sarcophagus.

Rolls

Athletics? - (1d20+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Jul 8, 2017 12:29 am
The lid slides away easily, and once free from the sarcophagus it leans precariously before crashing to the floor.

Revealed as the dust settles is a mummified body, posed similarly to the carving on the lid. A fine maroon robe is draped loosely around the thin figure, large voluminous sleeves and hem edged in gold trim. There is a death mask upon the head made of what looks like solid gold, with a featureless face, eyes closed save for a central third eye that is open on the forehead.

All is still.
Jul 10, 2017 3:35 pm
"That's... not what I expected. I kind of expected a fight," Kalis says hesitantly.
Jul 10, 2017 9:44 pm
Maenor rubs his chin and quirks an eyebrow, "Perhaps." He reaches out to gently touch the mummified body as he opens his senses to nefarious magic.

Rolls

Perception? - (1d20+6)

(8) + 6 = 14

Jul 11, 2017 2:14 am
The robes are made of a fine material with a silken sheen. The body itself is dry and near-brittle, almost as if it were made with layers of dust. The death mask has taken on almost a bronzed look from age that have settled upon the contours, yet the color still shines through in the light.

The room itself, after the ringing in the ears has subsided, appears peaceful. Even the crunch of shattered glass on the floor does little to dissuade the calm.

Beyond the door, however, is a different story. That malevolent feeling seems to clutch at the shadows beyond the torch-lit hallway, as though something were watching, and waiting.
Jul 11, 2017 2:20 am
Coda crawls through legs and makes his way to Maenor "Do you think you can lift me up?"
Jul 11, 2017 10:26 am
Maenor looks down at Coda with amusement, "Only if you promise to look with your eyes, not your hands."

He becomes more serious, and somewhat contemplative, as he looks back up at the figure before him. "I think this is not our enemy, and we should allow him his rest with dignity."
Jul 11, 2017 11:00 am
"That's..." Coda looks down to his feet "That is a promise I cannot make. I agree with you that this is not our enemy." He points up at the mask "We've seen eyes all over this place and they've proved to be exponential to our success so far. Look around, we've already disturbed his final resting place, his grave has been desecrated. A fact I can take from this is one of two things. One, the evil that resides here was afraid to enter this room, which is why it has remained untouched for so long; or two, the evil that resides here placed that thunderous trap to dissuade entry and desecrate his resting place. I believe whoever this is, is a protector of sorts...I think taking his mask to defeat whatever evil plagues this tomb is the most dignifiable thing we can do for him at this point."
Jul 13, 2017 10:13 am
Maenor considers Coda's words, "Perhaps." He looks up again at the golden visage of the mummified remains and adds, "...and perhaps it would be wise to first check for further traps."

He pulls a cloth and some candles from his bag and spends the next 10 minutes completing what appears to be a ritual.
OOC:
Casting Detect Magic as a ritual. Don't know why I didn't think of doing this earlier.
Jul 13, 2017 4:24 pm
Once the ritual is completed, Maenor's senses are drawn to the robe around the mummified body. The cloth appears wrapped in abjuration magic.

Maenor also detects some enchantment emanating from both Kalis and Daniel.
Jul 14, 2017 12:12 am
Maenor smiles quietly at what the spell reveals, "Fascinating."

He turns to Coda, "Not the mask, my friend, but the cloak. It has some sort of protective magic on it. Help me remove it, but let's be as gentle as we can."
Jul 14, 2017 7:38 am
Coda shrugs "I'd still feel comfortable with the mask...it has an eye. I will help as long as we promise to return the items to him when we are done." Upon accepting Coda will help with disrobing (and hopefully demasking) the mummy man.
Jul 14, 2017 12:21 pm
"Be careful not to damage anything," Kalis warns, keeping an eye out for any approaching danger.
Jul 14, 2017 4:34 pm
Removing the mask is not difficult, seemingly held in place with nothing more than balance and weight. Now that it is in hand, it is easy to confirm that the object is made of solid gold. The head that the mask was covering is revealed to be bald, eyes closed, mouth slightly agape showing a few rotted and missing teeth, with no facial hair.

The robe proves more cumbersome. The deceased is effectively wearing the garment, and it takes a bit of teamwork and coordination to gently slip the arms free of the sleeves without breaking the body. It helps that the robe looks virtually untarnished, and it is light yet with a sturdy feel, so you are less concerned with manhandling the cloth in your efforts to recover it. Eventually you do so, and you find that in the process you have become more intimate and familiar with the body.

Now free of accessory, the withered and dry husk in the sarcophagus is clearly shown, its skin stretched tight over bones. You are unable to tell whether this person was male or female, as it seems not everything was completely mummified, or perhaps was lost at some point in the past.
Jul 14, 2017 8:18 pm
Coda stares at the body for a moment then to the mask then back to the body "I apologize for disturbing your rest. If you are the protector of this crypt, hopefully what we do with your belongings honors you and clears us from the wrong." He'll turn and walk out of the room then wait to see where they are going.
Jul 14, 2017 10:16 pm
Maenor offers to cloak to Kalis, and helps him don it should he agree.
OOC:
A sorcerer does make more sense in that case
Last edited July 14, 2017 11:40 pm
Jul 14, 2017 10:50 pm
OOC:
It is a robe, and it will not fit around standard armor. If Daniel wishes to wear it, he will need to remove his leather.
Jul 14, 2017 11:17 pm
OOC:
A robe you say? Sounds like something for a sorcerer, perhaps?
Jul 15, 2017 5:21 pm
Stepping back into the hallway, Coda's torchlight pushes back the shadow. He can see the T-intersection further to the east, with passages heading north and south.

The tunnel north heads straight into darkness, extending beyond the reach of your light. Meanwhile, the tunnel south bends shortly to the east.
OOC:
Anyone can wear the robe, though obviously someone already wearing no armor would benefit more.

Anyone who wants to may also make a Perception check.
Map
Jul 15, 2017 6:31 pm
After helping Kalis with the robe, Maenor peers out into the hallway.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+6)

(7) + 6 = 13

Jul 15, 2017 7:27 pm
Kalis dons the robe and follows down the hallway.
Jul 15, 2017 10:04 pm
Coda squints down the hallway.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+5)

(10) + 5 = 15

Jul 18, 2017 12:41 pm
OOC:
Rolling...

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+7)

(15) + 7 = 22

Jul 18, 2017 5:01 pm
Progressing a bit up the north hallway, the group can see that it ends at another closed door.

Daniel spies an odd crack in the eastern wall of the hallway, just a bit down from the T-intersection. His eyes follow the crack and he realizes that he is staring at the outline of a hidden door, expertly crafted to nearly blend into the stone.
OOC:
Map. The previously-hidden door is next to Daniel.
Jul 18, 2017 10:13 pm
While/if the party stop to investigate the hidden door, Coda will run over and take a peek around the corner, just to have more path options.
OOC:
Moving to L24 and peeking around the wall into the 25 row.
Jul 19, 2017 11:26 am
Presuming that Daniel would either mention it or reveal through body language his discovery...Maenor looks for a way to open the door.

Rolls

Perception (if Investigation, use +5 instead) - (1d20+6)

(1) + 6 = 7

Jul 19, 2017 5:21 pm
Maenor finds no obvious switch. The crack is too narrow to get anything inside to pull the door open, and try as he might Maenor can't see anything he might be able to grab onto and pull.

Coda sees that the hallway extends 30 feet eastward before turning north.

Map
Jul 19, 2017 6:12 pm
"Let's head north first, see what's there, and work our way south from there," Kalis suggests to the others, "We can try that 'door' later on, maybe we'll find a clue on how to open it."
Jul 19, 2017 11:58 pm
Maenor sighs with frustration and mutters, "I feel like I'm missing something terribly obvious." He shakes his head and gives up on the secret door, following Kalis to the north. He turns back to make sure Coda has seen them and is coming along.
Jul 20, 2017 12:10 am
Coda catches back up with the group and tells them his findings.
Jul 20, 2017 7:09 pm
The door at the end of the hallway (L5) is made of wooden planks banded with iron or some type of metal. There is a simple handle to pull the door open, and the hinges look worn but otherwise serviceable.

Carved into the wood is something resembling Elvish. However, while standard Elvish features a fine, controlled script, these carvings look crude and jagged. It is as though the writer gave little care for penmanship and opted to use the sharp end of a fireplace poker.

Daniel is unable to read the script, but everyone else recognizes the words, "Meeting Room." Maenor and Kalis, both of whom possessive of an academic mind, note that the words are very archaic and never used in contemporary times, while Coda's familiarity with language and lore enable him to deduce the same.

The door does not appear to be locked.
Jul 20, 2017 11:55 pm
Having learned from his previous experience, Maenor looks for signs of a trap.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+6)

(11) + 6 = 17

Jul 21, 2017 12:15 am
The door does not appear to be trapped.
Jul 21, 2017 6:37 pm
The door creaks open as the hinges complain about their work. Beyond the threshold is a chamber, pitch black for a brief moment before your torchlight spills in and your darkvision adjusts. The walls of this room are rough-hewn as though chiseled with primitive tools and lack the refinement of the rest of the sepulcher, almost like a different hand was responsible.

In the middle of the chamber are four chairs, each in the cardinal directions and facing inward. They appear to have metal frames with wooden backs and seats, and look frail with age.

Surrounded by the chairs is a single candle, sitting in the center of the room in a small metal tin. The wax runs along the sides and has filled a thin layer inside the tin, and the wick is charred. However tall this candle was when it was first used is unknown, but a decent 6 inches remains.

Map
Jul 23, 2017 12:34 am
Maenor looks around the room for anything else of interest.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+6)

(18) + 6 = 24

Jul 25, 2017 8:47 pm
Kalis approaches the candle and bends down to look it over, as well as the immediate area.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(17) + 4 = 21

Jul 25, 2017 10:16 pm
Maenor and Kalis notice a discoloration on the floor. Careful to remain outside and not touch it, they manage to discern a faint circle centered on the candle, whose circumference is just outside the hind legs of the chairs to enclose all four pieces of furniture. As the two gaze upon the floor, they manage to pick out glyphs, lines, and smaller circles that form patterns. Each recognizes a theme of binding, though who or what would be bound is undetermined.

Maenor's keen eyes notice that the circle is broken, with heavy scratches on the floor interrupting some of the lines.

Kalis notices that even though the candle was used, it hasn't been for centuries.
Jul 26, 2017 10:14 am
Maenor frowns with anger as he says, "They summoned something they could not control...and now have released it upon the world."
Jul 26, 2017 12:24 pm
"It does appear that way," Kalis agrees, "Let's check down the hall. See if there's any clue as to what it was."
Jul 27, 2017 9:40 am
Maenor nods in agreement and sets off down the hall.
Jul 27, 2017 3:54 pm
OOC:
Are you heading past the secret door and further down the hallway?
Jul 27, 2017 3:59 pm
OOC:
Coda is too exhausted to deal with secret doors and their puzzles so yes, for me, further down the hallway.
Jul 28, 2017 9:56 am
Frustrated by his earlier failure, Maenor takes another look at the door as they pass.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+6)

(11) + 6 = 17

Jul 28, 2017 12:31 pm
Kalis calls softly for Coda to wait a moment while Maenor searches for the secret door. Also wanting to discover the secret, Kalis assists in the search.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

Jul 28, 2017 12:36 pm
Coda waits near the corner, awaiting further instructions.
Jul 29, 2017 12:26 am
While they do not see anything outward in the hallway to indicate a means of opening the secret door, both Kalis and Maenor notice something peculiar. Despite the section of wall being flush with the ground and the ceiling, there are no scratches or gouges in either to indicate it ever opened into the corridor.

Buoyed by this discovery, Maenor pushes the door and finds that without much effort, the entire section glides forward. With a rumbling of stone against stone, the panel depresses into the wall. Maenor keeps pushing, and finally there is a break in the 24-inch wall. The door slides further into a hidden chamber until it stops against something and goes no further. It does manage to clear enough space from the wall to allow a person through, one at a time.

The room is fairly large, but plain. The walls are roughly chiseled and unplastered, casting a speckled pattern of shadow as your torchlight grazes over its imperfections. Set at the base of the wall are four chests made of stone, each one 3-feet wide and 2-feet tall, with a depth of 2 feet.

Map
Jul 29, 2017 1:41 am
Kalis steps cautiously into the room, looking all around to make sure that there are no traps or anything that will be triggered simply through his movement.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Jul 29, 2017 3:04 am
Kalis sees nothing that catches his eye as being potentially dangerous or lethal. In fact, it looks like no one has been in this room for a very long time.
Jul 29, 2017 12:14 pm
Maenor joins Kalis in the room and takes a closer look at one of the chests, opening his senses to the tone of the room.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+6)

(6) + 6 = 12

Jul 29, 2017 8:11 pm
The room is plain, with nothing adorning the walls, floor, or ceiling. Each chest mirrors the room, made of plain stone with a flat lid. It feels as though the containers were placed in this room and left there, undisturbed.
Jul 29, 2017 11:27 pm
Maenor attempts to open the lid.

Rolls

Strength (if needed) - (1d20+2)

(17) + 2 = 19

Jul 31, 2017 4:56 pm
The heavy lid feels stuck, but it appears to have only settled with time, and with some effort Maenor manages to get it moving and expose the interior.

Nearly filling the chest is a collection of humanoid bones, enough to make a complete skeleton. The skull, which sits at the top of the pile, appears odd with a small circle seemingly branded on the forehead.
Jul 31, 2017 5:16 pm
Kalis leans close to inspect the circle on the skull, trying to see if it brings back any memories.

Rolls

Int Check (+2 more if Arcana or History) - (1d20+2)

(15) + 2 = 17

Jul 31, 2017 5:29 pm
It is quite small, but Kalis is able to recognize that this circle's appearance is a miniature version of the one in the Meeting Room.
Aug 2, 2017 11:47 pm
Maenor gently replaces the lid and checks another box, expecting to find the same but curious nonetheless.
Aug 3, 2017 12:19 am
Indeed, the next stone chest contains the same. Even the branding on the skull mirrors the contents of the first chest.
Aug 3, 2017 9:20 am
Maenor replaces the lid again as he ponders, "Four chairs, four bodies laid to rest. Yet the marks on the floor would indicate that whatever they summoned broke free...and those creatures seldom treat their victim with such respect. The mystery grows deeper."
Aug 3, 2017 11:53 am
"And why keep it hidden? We've seen other bodies laid to rest in more obvious places... Mysterious, indeed."
Aug 5, 2017 9:52 am
Maenor nods and stands, dusting off his hands. "Well, I doubt we shall find the answers here. Shall we move on?" He leads the way back into the hall, and down toward the unexplored section.
Aug 5, 2017 8:22 pm
The group enters into a hallway that turns north. It leads to a door made of solid stone with a bas-relief carving of a figure in armor, clutching a sword hilt by its chest, long blade pointed downward.

As you fully enter the hallway, the door grumbles open, grinding heavily on stone hinges to reveal darkness beyond.

It takes a while for the light to spill into the chamber, but you can see it is empty, save for two closed doors against the western wall. The smell of death oozes out, passing through your senses as it fills the air.

Map
Aug 8, 2017 10:12 pm
The room beyond is still, with no movement. Even Maenor's keen senses do not detect anything beyond the scent of aged time and the presence of the dead.
Aug 8, 2017 10:54 pm
Kalis moves cautiously into the room, keeping an eye out for any sign of danger. If he sees nothing in the room, he looks over the first door for any sign of traps/locks.
OOC:
Sorry, the game slipped under my radar. One of the pitfalls of being in so many games!
Last edited August 8, 2017 10:55 pm

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(16) + 4 = 20

Aug 9, 2017 12:08 am
Maenor follows Kalis, while looking all around the room and peering up at the ceiling.
Aug 9, 2017 5:42 pm
Nothing stands out as particularly dangerous, either in the immediate vicinity or in the unlocked first door.

However, beyond the door, Kalis can hear a faint rattle. A sliding sound, followed by a thud. It is faint, but it brings to mind something being moved upon a table.
Aug 10, 2017 12:06 am
Maenor sets his shield and nods his readiness to Kalis, looking at the other two men to see if they notice Kalis' intent stance.
Aug 10, 2017 12:37 am
Kalis indicates that he hears noise in the room beyond and holds three fingers up, then begins counting down by removing fingers. When he has all of his fingers down, he opens the door to see what's within.
Aug 10, 2017 1:06 am
The door swings into a darkened chamber. The walls are covered in carvings depicting battles ranging from individual duels to mass conflicts of numerous soldiers. The room is dominated in the center by a large and long stone table, upon which are tiny stone objects shaped into figurines. Some look humanoid while others resemble four-legged beasts. Other figurines seem to represent buildings or wagons. All are arranged in formations across the table.

Surrounding the table on are eight creatures roughly humanoid in appearance. One end has four figures in various stages of decay, with dirty red tabards hanging upon rotting flesh. The other end has four skeletons, each wearing blue tabards draped over their shoulders and rib cages. One of the rotting individuals reaches down to push a figurine elsewhere on the table, stone sliding upon stone before the base in stamped upon the surface with a thud.

As the torchlight spills into the room, all eight creatures turn to regard the open door. The skeletons' jaws clatter excitedly, while a low moan escapes the mouths of the rotting humanoids. They begin to advance towards you.
OOC:
Combat! You get to go first (again)!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Aug 10, 2017 2:38 am
Kalis launches a bolt of fire at the first skeleton he sees and then begins moving down the hall, away from the room.

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

1d20+5 : (11) + 5 = 16

1d10 : (5) = 5

Aug 10, 2017 3:51 am
Coda moves down the hallway and holds the mask up, in anticipation for what is around the door. The essence of magic tingles on the tip of his tongue as he readies Vicious Mockery.
OOC:
Trigger being: If the mask proves to be ineffective.

Rolls

Wis. Save 14 - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Aug 10, 2017 9:34 am
Maenor stands his ground just past the door, in hopes that these creatures also cannot pass the threshold. He sends holy flame toward the same creature that Kalis targeted.

Rolls

Sacred Flame (Dex Save DC 14), radiant damage - (1d8)

(7) = 7

Aug 10, 2017 5:38 pm
Kalis burns a hole in the blue tabard of the first skeleton, shattering a rib. However, the creature manages to sidestep the descending radiant flames from Maenor's divinity.

Coda readies his spell.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Map

Rolls

Dexterity Save - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Aug 14, 2017 4:52 pm
Daniel seems surprised, and caught flat-footed with the sudden combat.

Maenor finds that the skeletons do cross the threshold, reaching out with bony fingers as they advance towards him. Two step into the room he is in and draw shortswords from underneath their tabards, while a third is in the doorway drawing a bow.

At this point, Coda launches his spell, his mocking words rattling inside the skull of the first skeleton. It affects the undead creature enough that its sword thrust misses Maenor completely.

The second skeleton, however, advances forward quickly and gashes Maenor with a rusty stab (19 vs AC, 3 damage).

An arrow whizzes past Maenor's head and shatters against the far wall.
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Aug 14, 2017 6:21 pm
Coda rushes forward "We have to get him out of there, he's going to get swarmed." He says to Kalis as he ducks under his legs, drawing and loading his sling, flinging the stone at the skeleton blocking the door..
OOC:
Inspiration to Kalis: d6 on any attack/check/save.

Rolls

Attack/Damage - (1d20+6, 1d4+4)

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

1d4+4 : (1) + 4 = 5

Crit - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Aug 14, 2017 8:41 pm
Coda's bullet smashes through Skeleton1's skull and it collapses, sending bones clattering to the floor.
Aug 14, 2017 11:38 pm
Kalis groans as these skeletons are able to leave their confinement. He points a finger at the closest skeleton and fires a bolt of flame at it.
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (3) = 3

Crit - (1d10)

(8) = 8

Aug 14, 2017 11:47 pm
The skeleton draws back its short sword, preparing for another strike, when suddenly a blast of fire splashes into its tabard. The cloth catches flame quickly, engulfing the animated bones and charring it into dust.

Map
Aug 16, 2017 12:04 am
Maenor steps into the vacated space and swings at the archer with his mace.

Rolls

melee attack - (1d20+4)

(3) + 4 = 7

Aug 16, 2017 4:24 pm
Daniel seems stunned, unable to move.

Maenor's strike swings short of the skeleton in the doorway. It retaliates by dropping its shortbow and drawing a sword. It thrusts for the cleric's abdomen, but the broken blade lacks enough reach.

The other skeleton steps through the doorway and advances to Maenor's flank. It swings a flanged mace and catches Maenor across the shoulder (18 vs AC, 7 bludgeoning damage).

A zombie shambles past the doorway and turns for the hallway. However, when it sees Coda, it lets out a moan and does not approach. Instead, it turns around and tries to punch Maenor, but all that twisting throws it out of position and its attack flails wildly.
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Aug 16, 2017 5:03 pm
Standing his ground, Kalis fires another bolt of fire at z1.
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

1d20+5 : (13) + 5 = 18

1d10 : (10) = 10

Aug 16, 2017 5:14 pm
The flaming bolt slams into the back of the zombie, but despite the explosion the undead creature seems focused on Maenor.
Aug 18, 2017 1:07 am
OOC:
Would I be able to hit s4 with a sling or vicious mockery?
Aug 18, 2017 4:32 am
OOC:
You can see S4 and can target it with Vicious Mockery. If you use a sling, it will have the benefits of half cover since Maenor and a zombie are in the way.
Aug 18, 2017 7:25 am
OOC:
Okay, cool.
Coda spins his sling and sends a bullet to s4.

Rolls

Attack/Damage - (1d20+6, 1d4+4)

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

1d4+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

Aug 18, 2017 4:29 pm
Mindful of not hitting Maenor, Coda's bullet zips high over the skeleton to hit the ceiling.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Maenor
Aug 19, 2017 9:31 am
Maenor puts his mace back on his belt and calls holy flame down on the zombie, while crouched behind his shield.
OOC:
He's trying to create a lower profile so the others can see there target while at the same time maintaining a strong stance so it's not easy to push him over.

Rolls

Sacred Flame (Dex Save DC 14), radiant damage - (1d8)

(6) = 6

Aug 20, 2017 4:44 am
The zombie doesn't seem to care about the cascading fire, stumbling towards Maenor as the radiant energy washes upon it.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Map
Aug 21, 2017 6:45 pm
Daniel finally snaps out of his momentary panic, watching his companions engage the undead. He steps past Kalis and Coda and draws his rapier, lunging around Maenor to thrust his blade at the zombie. With deft speed, Daniel disengages to retreat to the back of the ranks.

Rolls

Rapier vs Zombie1, Piercing Damage, Sneak Attack - (1d20+6, 1d8+4, 1d6)

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

1d8+4 : (8) + 4 = 12

1d6 : (2) = 2

Aug 21, 2017 6:54 pm
The zombie, at the verge of falling apart, swings at Maenor with a rotted arm, but the blow is deflected by the shield. Its allies leave the room and crowd the doorway, reaching out for the living.

Behind the zombies, the two remaining skeletons draw shortbows, notch their arrows, and fire. One projectile zips past everyone and sails down the hallway, but the second manages to find the opening in Maenor's defenses and sinks into his thigh (23 to hit AC, 6 piercing damage).
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Aug 21, 2017 11:58 pm
Kalis cringes when he sees the arrow hit Maenor in the thigh, "Get outta there!" he shouts, and fires another bolt of flame.
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (1) = 1

Aug 22, 2017 4:20 am
Coda rushes forward with the mask extended out towards the zombie "Stay back, you decrepit being."

Casting vicious mockery. DC14 WIS save or take psychic damage and have D/A on its next attack

Rolls

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(4) = 4

Aug 22, 2017 9:25 am
Maenor grasps his thigh and slides back, avoiding the zombie's next attack.
OOC:
Disengage action.
Aug 22, 2017 4:31 pm
Daniel steps agilely through the group, his long rapier slipping past Coda for a quick strike before he darts backward to disengage.

Rolls

Rapier vs Zombie1, Piercing Damage, Sneak Attack - (1d20+6, 1d8+4, 1d6)

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

1d8+4 : (6) + 4 = 10

1d6 : (1) = 1

Aug 22, 2017 4:44 pm
The zombie, barely held together from the damage taken earlier, is easily taken apart by the combined attacks of fire, steel, and disparaging remarks about its compositive state. It falls backward into the chamber.

The other zombies, seeing Coda brandishing the mask, appear reluctant to approach. They also do not back away, reaching forward for the halfling yet barred by some invisible means.

The skeletons also remain where they are. However, they appear unhindered in their attempt to fire their shortbows at the party. One arrow cracks into the wall where Daniel used to be. The second gashes Coda as it pierces through his armor (23 to hit AC, 4 piercing damage).
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Aug 22, 2017 11:10 pm
Coda looks back "Focus on the skeletons." He turns back and looks at s3 "Even though they aren't worthy of our attention."

Casting vicious mockery. DC14 WIS save or take psychic damage and have D/A on its next attack

Rolls

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Aug 23, 2017 12:20 pm
Seeing that the zombies are temporarily halted, Kalis changes targets and launches a bolt of fire at s4.

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (2) = 2

Aug 25, 2017 5:59 pm
Daniel lunges around Coda, repeating his previous attack against one of the zombies that stand beyond the doorway. He disengages to slip behind the golden mask.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Maenor
Map

Rolls

Rapier vs Zombie3, Piercing Damage, Sneak Attack - (1d20+6, 1d8+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (16) + 6 = 22

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

1d6 : (6) = 6

Aug 25, 2017 7:55 pm
Maenor keeps pressure on his leg with one hand while calling on holy flame with the other.
OOC:
targeting S4, assuming it still stands. If not, then the other skeleton.

Rolls

Sacred flame (Dex save DC 14) - (1d8)

(8) = 8

Aug 25, 2017 8:26 pm
The zombies flail at the doorway, apparently unwilling to approach Coda. You all notice that when Daniel stepped forward, he immediately attracted their attention, but the rogue was too quick in his retreat for them to engage.

The skeletons continue their ranged attack, firing two arrows at the group. Skeleton3 seems to reel from the arcane whispers, but its arrow manages to strike Coda (disadvantaged 17 vs AC, 8 piercing damage). The second arrow snips Coda's hair, but passes harmlessly by.
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Aug 26, 2017 4:07 am
Coda wavers as the arrow strikes him, almost dropping the mask, he shakes his head and raises the mask back up "That...That the best you got? You overgrown dog chew!"

Target s3. Casting vicious mockery. DC14 WIS save or take psychic damage and have D/A on its next attack.

Rolls

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Aug 26, 2017 7:16 am
The skeleton's jaw clatters in response to Coda's words, but it does not seem fazed by the insult. Coda senses a cadence to the clatter that sounds like laughter.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Kalis
Maenor
Aug 26, 2017 10:53 am
Maenor again sends flame toward the skeleton.

Rolls

Sacred Flame (Dex Save DC 14), radiant damage, target S4 - (1d8)

(3) = 3

Aug 26, 2017 8:00 pm
Kalis launches yet another bolt of flame at S4.
Last edited August 26, 2017 8:00 pm

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (6) = 6

Crit - (1d10)

(3) = 3

Aug 26, 2017 9:09 pm
Daniel finds a certain rhythm to the attack, lunging forward yet again and stretching his rapier out for the zombie. He pulls back before the rotted walking corpses can retaliate.

Rolls

Rapier vs Zombie3, Piercing Damage, Sneak Attack - (1d20+6, 1d8+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (1) + 6 = 7

1d8+4 : (3) + 4 = 7

1d6 : (3) = 3

Aug 26, 2017 9:17 pm
The rapier manages to find only cloth as it rips the tabard off the zombie, exposing more rotted flesh.

Skeleton3 sidesteps out of the descending flames, but walks right into the path of Kalis' Fire Bolt. The blast shatters the sternum and blows through the spinal column, scattering the bones into a wide arc as the shortbow falls to the floor.

The remaining archer fires another arrow into the fray, but only strikes the wall next to Coda.

The zombies shuffle in place.
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Aug 26, 2017 9:20 pm
With a grim smile, Kalis launches another bolt of fire at the zombies, targeting Z3 this time.

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

1d20+5 : (9) + 5 = 14

1d10 : (3) = 3

Aug 27, 2017 12:44 am
The fire sizzles against the zombie's flesh, cauterizing exposed muscle.
Aug 28, 2017 5:16 am
"Let's see you laugh at this." Coda spins his sling and launches a bullet at the skeleton.

Rolls

Attack/Damage - (1d20+6, 1d4+4)

1d20+6 : (14) + 6 = 20

1d4+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

Aug 28, 2017 5:29 am
The bullet blows through the clavicle and practically disintegrates the shoulder blade of the skeleton. It wobbles precariously after suffering significant damage from the tiny blunt projectile.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Daniel
Maenor
Aug 28, 2017 9:25 am
Satisfied that his bleeding had slowed enough that he was no longer in imminent danger, Maenor draws his light crossbow and moves forward far enough to aim at the remaining skeleton, just over Coda's head.

Rolls

Light crossbow - (1d20+6)

(18) + 6 = 24

dmg - (1d8+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

Aug 28, 2017 5:59 pm
The angle is just enough to knock the skeleton's skull right off, and the bones fall to the ground.

Using Coda's mask as a ward, it is easy enough to whittle the remaining zombies down to piles of rotted flesh.
OOC:
Combat over!

What do you wish to do now?
Map
Aug 28, 2017 6:13 pm
OOC:
Collapse, curl up in a ball, and fall asleep (crying optional).
Aug 28, 2017 6:20 pm
Kalis leaves the bandaging to the more experienced members of the group. He moves into the room with the tables in it to look around.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(11) + 4 = 15

Aug 28, 2017 6:36 pm
The table has a crudely-drawn map, very faded in places from age and overuse. Kalis notices that the map vaguely resembles the current locale, but the Tenby Woods are labeled "Ashewoad" and dramatically smaller in size. The figurines on the map appear to represent soldiers, wagons, and beasts of burden, while the buildings appear to be fortresses of varying size.

The blue side appear to have dominated Ashewoad with a small tent and are bolstering their flanks with cavalry from a fortress at Frysor Stronghold, while the red side are attempting a pincer move with infantry from the Dreaming Forest and the Trackless Barren.

The décor feels reminiscent of a war room, and the map is either a tactical briefing on a long-forgotten conflict, or given the garments worn by the undead, a simple wargame. Nothing else stands out in this room.
Aug 28, 2017 6:41 pm
Finding nothing of practical value, Kalis decides to move on. He approaches the next door and inspects it for anything that looks out of place.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(3) + 4 = 7

Aug 28, 2017 6:44 pm
Kalis does not notice anything out of the ordinary. The door is wood, with iron bands, and opens inward via iron handle. It also appears to be unlocked.
Aug 28, 2017 6:46 pm
Taking a deep breath, Kalis opens the door.
Aug 28, 2017 7:55 pm
The hinges creak heavily as the door is pulled open, and the light spills in to reveal a chamber extending to the north. The stone walls are bare save for a band of interwoven lines at head-height that wrap around the room like twisting branches, primarily decorative in style. The tiled floor is patterned like a checkerboard with alternating light and dark squares.

The first thing Kalis sees as his darkvision adjusts is a giant skeleton standing against the far wall, but the skull is a massive bull's head with large horns. Thick bovine legs support its weight, while its humanoid hands hold a rusted greataxe. The skeleton animates as the door opens, moving from a stoic sentry-like stance to grasping its greataxe in a ready position.

"Hold," hisses a voice from the northern side of the room, at which the skeleton freezes in place. Kalis can see there is a single sarcophagus set within the north wall, standing upright from floor to ceiling. It is empty, and its lid has been cracked and broken, reformed into a crude chair that rests at the base.

Seated in this chair is a pale humanoid figure, dressed in a cloak the color of dull metal that wraps around the being like a mantle. The hood is down, revealing a nose-less face with skin stretched tight around its skull. Jet-black pupiless eyes stare at Kalis from beneath a mane of white hair that falls to the creature's shoulders. A bare longsword gleams in the torchlight as it rests across the lap.

The creature speaks again, its voice echoing in a hollow chasm, and like a foul breath a wave of foreboding and woe washes across the party. "Never have a paltry few delved so deep within my domain. Come, enter in peace. You deserve an audience, at least."
Aug 29, 2017 2:28 pm
Kalis looks to the others to see if they'll follow. If they look like they're going to, he enters the room cautiously.
Aug 29, 2017 8:15 pm
Maenor, still back in the hall, takes time to heal himself and Coda.

Rolls

Cure Wounds: Maenor - (1d8+6)

(3) + 6 = 9

Cure Wounds: Coda - (1d8+6)

(1) + 6 = 7

Aug 30, 2017 5:44 am
Coda rubs his aching limbs "Thank you, Sir Maenor. Let's catch up with Kalis; someone has to babysit him." He follows after Kalis with a weak smile.
Aug 30, 2017 9:17 am
Maenor nods and follows.
Aug 31, 2017 5:36 pm
Daniel follows everyone into the chamber. The smell of death is palpable.

You all stand under the unblinking gaze of hollow eye sockets from the bull's skull above. Its greataxe is held ready in both hands, but the skeleton's posture is more of a guard than an aggressor.

The seated figure barely moves, only its jaw twitching slightly within the stretched skin. "Welcome," it rasps, its voice seemingly coming from an empty chasm somewhere deep within its body. "You have traveled far, and deserve rest.

"Oh, but my manners,"
it interrupts itself. "I am Maerathol, the Black Lord of Ashewoad. Tell me of yourselves, and whence you came."
CancerMan sent a note to marithyme
Sep 1, 2017 10:58 am
Coda tries to stand as tall as he can but the pain is clearly visible in his stance "I am Coda Ostinato, the forgotten Prince of the Shifting Sands."
Sep 1, 2017 12:41 pm
Kalis bows, "I am Kalis Varimas, librarian."
Sep 1, 2017 11:26 pm
"Your Highness," says the creature, its words oozing like melted butter. "I welcome you and your retainers. I would bow, but as you can see... these old bones aren't what they used to be." A rasping sound begins, heavy and wheezing, and you realize that it is laughing.

"You'll forgive my ignorance of your domain," the being continues as the laughter subsides. "I have been stuck down here for quite some time. I do yearn to see the stars of the night sky, and I'm sure your Shifting Sands are a wonderful place. Actually... When I think about it, perhaps you could help me with that. Hm?"
Sep 2, 2017 4:51 am
Coda waves the creatures words away "Please Coda is fine, I haven't been called 'Your Highness' in decades and you need not bow to me nor would I ask the elderly to bend their knee to me." He produces a smile through his aches.

"I think I'd be more insulted if you had knowledge of it." Coda lets out a chuckle "It has earned the name Shifting Sands for a reason. A place of mystery wrapped in myth and rumors, only those born there know that it truly exists. What can little old me that your bullman can't? Can he not just carry you out?"
Sep 2, 2017 6:38 am
"How exotic," the creature marvels, though there is an edge to its voice. "Truly you paint a fascinating tale of your homeland that only whets the appetite, despite your attempts to diminish its imagined splendor. As for your assistance..."

A bony finger is lifted until it points at Coda and the mask he wears. "You are no doubt aware of the symbol you have upon your forehead? All I ask is a small favor regarding the large one overlooking the exit. Close its gaze so that I may once again walk the fields under the dark mantle of the evening."
Sep 2, 2017 8:21 am
"I guess I must be jaded to its splendor, the only thing it will leave you is parched. Though I do suppose the undead have little need for water." Coda watches as the creature brings it's finger up to point "I care little for symbols; it allowed us to proceed relatively uninhibited by some inhabitants." He removes the mask from his face "What's the catch? If it was as simple as closing somethings gaze, why haven't you done it already?"
Sep 2, 2017 10:06 am
Maenor stands with arms crossed, frowning fiercely. He is glad his friends are doing the talking, because he would be far less civil and thus not able to get any useful information.
Sep 2, 2017 4:55 pm
The pointing hand changes to a resigned gesture. "It is too high for me to reach on my own," it says, its tone quite matter-of-fact before sliding into a pouting voice, "and my large friend here cannot fit on the stairs."
Sep 5, 2017 7:00 am
Coda smiles slightly "I'm afraid you're talking to the wrong person if you are having height problems...but I'll see what my intrepid companions can do." He bows lightly, keeping an eye on the creature as he does, the motions for the rest to leave as he turns and begins to leave.
Sep 5, 2017 12:30 pm
Kalis listens politely, but tunes into his senses. Is this where he felt the evil coming from before?
Sep 5, 2017 4:11 pm
"I should like to watch this," says the creature, rising like a marionette from the chair. The creak and crack of leather accompanies the heavy scrape of the cloak against the stone. The sword is grasped before it can fall, held loosely with the point down against the floor.

Both Coda and Kalis feel like they are on the precipice of a swirling vacuum of power, sucking in their body heat and threatening to throw them off-balance into the void. Whatever foreboding was felt throughout the tomb is definitely strongest in this room.

Maenor feels malevolence and malice. When the sword was grasped and the blade swung free, there was a twinge of raw hatred like a needle through his eyes.

The creature seems prepared to follow.
Sep 5, 2017 10:02 pm
A slight chill travels through Coda's spine as the creature speaks, he turns to face it "Oh...You're coming with us? That could complicate things. I already kinda had a plan and I'm not sure how well I'll be able to execute it with someone I don't know watching."
Sep 5, 2017 10:05 pm
Kalis is tense, unsure of what to do about this thing. Every instinct he has tells him to destroy it, but he's not sure he could even if he tried. Unsure, he waits to see what Coda will do.
Sep 5, 2017 10:42 pm
The creature takes a stiff step and half-shuffle forward. "Oh, I'm sure you'll perform admirably," it confides. "I have every confidence in your abilities, Your Majesty."
Sep 7, 2017 11:25 am
"I think it'd be best if you stayed here. You've been trapped here forever, what's a few more minutes? I'm comfortable enacting my plan around them because I've known them for years and consider them like a brother and can act to my fullest potential while alone with them. You, I hardly know and stage fright is a big problem in my family. You don't have much to gain by following us."
Sep 7, 2017 3:55 pm
OOC:
Make a Persuasion check
Sep 7, 2017 4:01 pm
.

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+6)

(3) + 6 = 9

Sep 7, 2017 4:14 pm
"You won't even know I'm there," says the creature. "In fact, I won't even be in your field of vision. Come, let us attend to your performance."

It takes another step and half-shuffle towards Coda. The giant skeleton does not move.
Sep 7, 2017 4:45 pm
"I highly doubt that..." Coda turns and leaves.
Sep 7, 2017 5:02 pm
OOC:
Where do you go and/or what do you do? "You" being the collective party, of course.
Sep 7, 2017 5:12 pm
OOC:
Coda will begin walking to the entrance, however, his speed and size make him easily persuaded to go elsewhere.
Sep 7, 2017 5:16 pm
Kalis follows along behind Coda, nervous about what's about to happen.
Sep 7, 2017 11:54 pm
Maenor waits for the others to pass, trying to walk behind the creature - hoping to protect his friends should it decide to attack.
Sep 8, 2017 1:04 am
The creature's pace seems slow, yet methodical. It takes a step, then shuffles its other leg like the bones are too stiff. The dull cloak hangs heavily with nary a wave of any passage.

Coda, Kalis, and Daniel all leave the room and step into the next chamber, avoiding the pile of bones and bodies clustered around the far threshold, and see clear access into the hallway.

Maenor needs to wait a while as the creature moves across its 'throne room.' As it nears, Maenor can literally smell the passage of time, corrupted and twisted towards dark purpose. Whatever the source, Maenor feels a very close proximity to something ancient mixed with a boiling hatred.

However, the creature's outward appearance seems little more than a feeble being, and were it alive it would resemble a decrepit old person. In fact, it seems obvious now that a simple walk would soon outpace this undead entity.
OOC:
Maenor may make a Perception check
Sep 8, 2017 9:21 am
Maenor quietly observes the creature.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+6)

(14) + 6 = 20

Sep 8, 2017 4:05 pm
CancerMan sent a note to marithyme
The creature slowly shuffles out of the room, and pauses as it inspects the carnage. With the slightest hint of a smirk, it shakes its head and resumes a methodical pace to follow Coda and company.

The bull-headed skeleton remains where it is.
Sep 10, 2017 11:01 am
Maenor ponders as he follows behind, trying to recall if a sword was depicted in any of the murals of the battles with, presumably, this creature (or who it once was).
Sep 10, 2017 5:24 pm
CancerMan sent a note to marithyme
Sep 11, 2017 11:51 pm
Maenor calls out in Elvish, "Watch your step just ahead."
Sep 12, 2017 12:14 am
Daniel does not seem to understand, but takes his cues by following the lead of Kalis and Coda.

The creature seems to twitch at the elvish tongue, but otherwise makes no outward reaction aside from its slow gait towards the hallway.
Sep 12, 2017 4:14 am
Coda stops his movement, turns, and waits for Maenor.
Sep 12, 2017 9:23 am
Maenor continues cheerfully, his tone belying the seriousness of his words, "The sword is the source of the evil. We cannot let this creature see the light of day. Lie about what I'm saying."
Last edited September 12, 2017 9:28 am
Sep 12, 2017 10:29 am
Coda looks up at Maenor with a smile and laughs then replies back in elvish "I wasn't planning on it. I trust him about as far as I can throw him. He cannot leave this place until we remove the eye at the door, so I'm not seeing his plan when we can just leave here and he can't."
Sep 12, 2017 12:06 pm
Kalis, who understands the elvish tongue, doesn't respond. He fears that speaking too much in elvish will reveal that they are discussing ways to ditch the evil being. His eyes do move briefly to the sword next time he gets a chance to look at it.
Sep 12, 2017 3:47 pm
The sword looks rather plain and serviceable, though apparently well-kept despite the years. Even from a distance, its keen blade shines in the torchlight.

Coda and Kalis both sense the foreboding of death, but cannot determine its source. Maenor also senses this, but distinctly feels raw hatred in addition to the woe and ruin.

As Coda stops, the creature asks, "Something the matter?"
Sep 12, 2017 4:14 pm
"Oh, not really. My friend here doesn't speak a lick of common." Coda chuckles "He was just reminding me of a particularly embarrassing night I got into that happened after a bit of heavy drinking; hasn't let me live it down since, it's become a bit of a joke between us."
Sep 12, 2017 4:17 pm
"I should like to hear that," prompts the creature. "It has been so long since I have heard a story."
Sep 12, 2017 5:11 pm
"I'm afraid I don't kiss and tell, it was quite personal and rather embarrassing, as I said. Perhaps if you tell me a tale of one of your blunders, I will share you one of mine."
Sep 12, 2017 5:14 pm
OOC:
Make a Persuasion check.
Sep 12, 2017 5:17 pm
OOC:
.

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+6)

(15) + 6 = 21

Sep 12, 2017 6:03 pm
"Certainly. We can chat as we walk," says the creature, seemingly pleased with the chance to speak. It moves into the hallway, approaching closer to Coda and the others (unless they resume walking, in which case it merely proceeds at its slow pace).

"I recall a time long ago at the winter ball, I had invited a dear friend and sweetheart to be my guest. It was a lovely time, and the wine and song lasted long into the night. Unbeknownst to me, my eldest brother decided to slip powdered mushrooms into my drink at some point. I think he meant to afflict my humor with illusion, or perhaps render me incoherent, but regardless he did not fully understand the nature of plants. Instead of veiling my vision with dreams, the wine formed a rather... unstable weather, shall we say, in my lower stomach. As much as I tried, I could not excuse myself fast enough from my beloved and released a thunderous blast in the middle of the dance.

"Oh, it was quite embarrassing. Everyone laughed at my misfortune, and even my friend could not contain her mirth."
Sep 12, 2017 7:09 pm
Coda resumes walking, at a slower pace to remain courteous to the creature as he tells his story. When the creature finish it's tale, he gives his knee a slap accompanied by a chuckle "Oh, I do love a good fart story." He rights himself and continues his walk "Well, I suppose a deal is a deal. I do not quite remember the night before, because I was proper sloshed, so you'll have to forgive me on that half. To bypass uninteresting formalities, the story goes I was drinking, obviously, chatting up any ears who would listen. Now to the real meat and potatoes; I awake to a knocking on my door, I walk over to open it in a hungover, half-asleep stupor and toss the door open. Lo and behold, my friend here accompanied by two others standing there, with a look that I can only describe as if they've seen a ghost adorning their faces. The cause for their grimace? I'm about as naked as the day I was born, it was also the day he was to introduce me to his mother and wife; quite the first impression, if you ask me."

Coda stops again as he begins laughing again before continuing on "But the real cherry on top, was when a sheep scrambled out from under the sheets, ran right pass all of us; I'll tell you my face was about as red as that cherry. He didn't speak to me for a week until we found out it was all a goof from some farmer who got mad I was chatting up their girl apparently. His wife still never spoke to me, always seemed to be 'busy' when I came over."
Last edited September 12, 2017 7:10 pm
Sep 13, 2017 6:59 pm
OOC:
Which friend were you referring to as married?
The creature seems to chuckle, though it sounds more like a leaking bellows from both within the chest and near the throat. "Marvelous," it says afterward.

The party has reach the T-intersection, with the north hallway leading to the room with the chairs and western passage heading towards the stairs to the upper level.
Sep 14, 2017 2:47 am
OOC:
Noted.

What does the party wish to do now?
Sep 15, 2017 12:46 pm
OOC:
Not sure at this point. Kalis is waiting for Coda to do something, since he's in the lead
Sep 15, 2017 12:52 pm
OOC:
Coda is going to the exit, unless one of the others suggests otherwise.
Sep 15, 2017 3:49 pm
As the party passes by the shattered door, the creature pauses. It looks into the chamber and stares at the open sarcophagus, empty eye sockets lingering upon the desiccated and nude corpse that stands there.

Another series of modulated wheezing as the creature finds some humor somewhere. "Simply marvelous," it says, seemingly to itself, and resumes its slow shuffling walk to follow Coda.

The party takes the stairs to the upper level and arrives at the fork. The western tunnel leads to the room that once contained a large overweight zombie, while the northern passage leads to the series of smaller rooms that the party had previously explored.
OOC:
Which path do you take?
Map
Sep 15, 2017 4:17 pm
Coda continues north, while giving a question to the creature "I've been thinking, you seemed to have a pretty solid dominance over that standing bull skeleton but he was too large to fit up the stairs. We encountered a number of small skeletons and zombies throughout, why not use them?"
Sep 15, 2017 4:38 pm
"They lack the intelligence," is the creature's reply.

You all arrive at the room with a carpet of bones, once again scattered across the area thanks to your successful battle against the skeletons. Everything appears as you've left it.

The door to the north enters into the room with a pile of rotted corpses, once zombies. The room to the south still has the robed skeleton whose book and key were recovered by Kalis. The door to the west leads to a hallway.
Sep 15, 2017 8:11 pm
Coda holds his hand up briefly in front of his face "Blocking sight doesn't seem that mentally taxing." He makes his way to the west door and continues to the door up then through the portcullis.
Sep 15, 2017 9:26 pm
The portcullis is closed.
Sep 15, 2017 9:43 pm
"Forgive me, with all the opening and closing in this maze we've done, I misremembered what we did here with the portcullis." Coda turns from the portcullis and makes his way through the sarcophagus room.
Sep 18, 2017 3:53 pm
The creature follows Coda, slowly makings its way into the sarcophagus and the carpet of books. When it nears the headless skeleton, the creature chuckles.
Sep 18, 2017 4:51 pm
"Friend of yours?" Coda asks, sarcasm heavily coating his tone.
Sep 18, 2017 4:59 pm
"Never knew her," replies the creature, obliquely.
Sep 18, 2017 5:18 pm
"How do you know it's a her than?" Coda asks, smiling.
Sep 18, 2017 5:38 pm
Maenor sees the corners of the creature's mouth stretch further into a rictus grin. "I was here when she was interred," it says neutrally, almost matter-of-fact, and something about its tone is unsettling.
Sep 18, 2017 6:30 pm
"Why watch her get interred if you don't know her though? She must of been pretty important to be given burial rites, you must've known her a little bit." Coda continues forward as he carries on the conversation.
Sep 18, 2017 7:03 pm
You all enter the very first chamber of the sepulcher. You step over the skeletons and pieces of shattered armor on the floor, now surrounded by the carvings of eyes.

"You misunderstand, Prince of the Shifting Sands," hisses the creature as it weaves through the minor obstacles. "I was here when she was interred, but I did not know who she was when she was alive. And she was not much of a conversationalist when dead."
Sep 18, 2017 7:27 pm
Coda smiles "Ah yes, simple misunderstanding, mate." He looks at the eye overlooking the door then to the creature and Maenor "Hope you don't mind but I need to speak to my friend in his tongue, he is the brains of the group; Heh, Mr. Books I liked to call him. Any plans? I do not think I can take it on, at least in my current state."
Sep 20, 2017 3:22 pm
"Do we have a choice? We can't let this thing out, can we?" Kalis responds in Elvish.
Sep 20, 2017 4:14 pm
The creature looks between Kalis and Maenor. "Two librarians," it mutters to itself, though its black pupilless eyes linger on Maenor's warrior-like equipment. "Fascinating."
Sep 20, 2017 7:26 pm
"I was under the impression that it can't leave unless we help it, otherwise it's stuck. I was just thinking of leaving but I was wondering if anyone had other thoughts on the matter."
Sep 21, 2017 8:49 am
Maenor says gently, "Remember why we came. We cannot leave with our mission unfulfilled, or we forfeit the goblin's help.
Sep 21, 2017 9:17 am
Coda looks up at the eye again and nods "I didn't mean leave permanently, I meant leave to recoup but you do bring up a thought. It is as favorable as it can get right now, while he's alone... If we leave now, he'll seek or return to his allies, most noticeably the cow skeleton back where we met him." He turns to Kalis and points up at the eye "If you think this is the best course of action, I'm with you."
Last edited September 21, 2017 9:18 am
Sep 21, 2017 12:16 pm
"I'm unsure if we have a choice," Kalis says, "It will prepare to face us later if we leave now."
OOC:
I just looked back at old posts and found that we've been in this tomb for 7-8 months in real time. I had forgotten about the goblin's quest
Last edited September 21, 2017 12:16 pm
Sep 21, 2017 9:18 pm
"I'm ready when you are." Coda nods again then draws his flute "Test one: lull it to sleep to remove its gaze." He begins a soft tune, gentle to the ears, soothing to the mind.
OOC:
Giving Maenor a bardic inspiration. I don't know if it is possible to hold an action after using a bonus action but if I can I'll hold Vicious Mockery with the trigger being one of the others initiating combat.
Sep 21, 2017 11:00 pm
OOC:
Sure, you can Ready your spell.
Sep 22, 2017 1:28 am
Kalis takes a step back to allow Coda space to cast his spell. Once the creature is distracted he points a finger and launches Magic Missile at the monster. He also draws upon an internal reservoir of power to replenish his magical energies.
OOC:
Magic Missile 1st, and then Font of Magic takes two Sorcery Points to restore a L1 spell slot.

Rolls

Magic Missile - (3d4+3)

(232) + 3 = 10

Sep 22, 2017 2:33 am
Seeing the missiles fly, Coda finishes his song with a sharp sting directed at the creature.
OOC:
Vicious Mockery Wis. Save DC 14

Rolls

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Sep 22, 2017 8:44 am
Maenor steps forward with a grim expression and swings his mace at the creature.

Rolls

attack - (1d20+4)

(3) + 4 = 7

dmg? - (1d6+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Sep 22, 2017 5:07 pm
Unaware of the planned attack, Daniel nevertheless recognizes what his companions have agreed to. He draws his rapier and spins, finishing the move with a thrust to the creature's chest.

Rolls

Rapier vs Maerathol, Piercing Damage, Sneak Attack - (1d20+6, 1d8+4, 1d6)

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

1d8+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

1d6 : (6) = 6

Sep 22, 2017 5:27 pm
The undead being does not seem surprised by this turn of events, but it is difficult to tell from the expression of the stretched and dry skin across the skull. Kalis' darts slam into the creature's chest, and at the same time Coda's words pierce through the air, shaking it beneath its cloak.

As Daniel's blade bites into its shoulder, the creature retaliates with an open palm slap across the rogue's cheek (disadvantaged 23 vs AC 16, 5 necrotic damage). Daniel seems to wither under the blow, and his rapier wavers in his hand.

The creature turns, bringing its longsword around for a strike across Maenor's body, but the cleric manages to interpose his shield to deflect the slice.
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Sep 22, 2017 5:37 pm
Kalis draws up the last of his magical reserves and launches another trio of missiles at the creature.
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Magic Missile - (3d4+3)

(432) + 3 = 12

Sep 22, 2017 5:49 pm
The darts thud into the creature again, staggering it slightly.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Coda
Daniel
Maenor
Sep 24, 2017 3:38 am
Coda continues his song, a shrill chorus that is only audible to the creature; Daniel hears an inspiring tune.
OOC:
Inspiration to Daniel. Vicious Mockery Wis. Save DC 14

Rolls

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Sep 24, 2017 11:40 am
As the creature's blade clangs against his shield, Maenor aim his mace at the exposed mid-section.

Rolls

mace attack - (1d20+4)

(17) + 4 = 21

dmg? - (1d6+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Sep 24, 2017 5:42 pm
Daniel presses his attack now that the creature has exposed its back. He lunges with his rapier, sinking it deep within the body.

As the creature reels from the shrill notes hammering through its head, Daniel takes the opportunity to disengage and retreat back.

Rolls

Rapier, Piercing Damage, Sneak Attack - (1d20+6, 1d8+4, 1d6)

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

1d8+4 : (6) + 4 = 10

1d6 : (1) = 1

Maerathol WIS save - (1d20+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Sep 24, 2017 6:02 pm
The creature screams, turning briefly to look at Coda. "Your retainers pack quite a punch for bookworms," it sneers. "I shall remember you, Prince of the Shifting Sands!"

Moving with a speed it had not exhibited previously, the creature pushes Maenor's shield to the side and runs past the cleric, slipping into the room with the library and running past the sarcophagus.
OOC:
The wight has disengaged and fled into the other room. Do you pursue?
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Sep 24, 2017 6:18 pm
Kalis chases the wight into the next room and fires a bolt of flame at its back.
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (8) = 8

Sep 24, 2017 10:39 pm
Coda stops his tune "Quickly, he's trying to make it to the cow skeleton." He runs forward, as fast as his little legs can carry him. Passing by Kalis "Hone your aim, we are on the offensive."
OOC:
Action Dash; Bonus Action Kalis Inspiration.
Sep 24, 2017 11:50 pm
Maenor follows the creature and attacks it once more.

Rolls

mace attack - (1d20+4)

(9) + 4 = 13

dmg if hits - (1d6+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Sep 24, 2017 11:52 pm
OOC:
Oooh! You have a d6 inspiration still.
Last edited September 25, 2017 3:21 am
Sep 25, 2017 12:03 am
OOC:
I know; saving it for better damage roll! :)
Sep 25, 2017 2:58 am
Daniel hesitates, but as his companions charge after the undead, he sighs. "I'm gonna regret this," he mutters, and dashes through the library. He slides across the sarcophagus and dives over Coda to belly-flop onto some books until he passes everyone, kicking up to a stance in the doorway to cut off the creature's escape.

With a flourish, he thrusts his rapier for the wight's eyes.

Rolls

Rapier, Piercing Damage, Sneak Attack - (1d20+6, 1d8+4, 1d6)

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

1d8+4 : (6) + 4 = 10

1d6 : (4) = 4

Sep 25, 2017 3:17 am
The Fire Bolt explodes against the wall near the wight's head, but seemingly does no harm. Maenor and Daniel pursue and get back into melee, but the uneven footing of the fallen books hinders their aim and their attacks find only air.

"Fools," says the wight. "You think you can just cut me down?" With a snarl, it lashes out at Daniel with its sword, but the rogue manages to duck under the swing. Unfortunately, the maneuver presents Daniel's head within easy reach for the wight's hand, and it grabs hold of his hair to begin pulling him out of the doorway (16 vs AC 16, 4 necrotic damage).
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map

Rolls

Daniel CON save - (1d20+2)

(7) + 2 = 9

Coda's Inspiration to Daniel - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Sep 25, 2017 4:08 am
"You wouldn't be running if we couldn't cut you down." Coda retaliates.
OOC:
Vicious Mockery Wis. Save DC 14

Rolls

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Sep 25, 2017 4:34 am
The creature hisses in reply.

Rolls

Maerathol WIS save - (1d20+1)

(12) + 1 = 13

Sep 25, 2017 8:42 am
Maenor, seeing his friend in mortal danger, tries to focus as he swings his mace.

Rolls

mace attack - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

dmg - (1d6+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Sep 25, 2017 12:03 pm
Feeling draconic power flooding through him, Kalis launches another bolt of fire at the wight.
[ +- ] Combat Stats
Last edited September 25, 2017 12:04 pm

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+5, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (7) = 7

Bardic Inspiration! - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Sep 25, 2017 4:47 pm
Distracted by the words of the bard, the wight does not see Maenor's mace slam into its shoulder. It spins around from the impact, just in time to have a blast of fire explode into its face. Thrown backward, it slams against the wall and collapses to the ground. The sword clatters to the side.

Half of its head is missing, smoke and ash sizzling dry flesh. Its one baleful eye casts a gaze across you all, and as the ash spreads across its body, dissolving into dust, that same wheezing laugh hisses through. It starts as a chuckle, slowly deepening into mirthful guffaws.

Soon, all that remains are a set of broken leathers, a heavy-looking cloak, and the creature's sword. Silence settles throughout the tomb.
OOC:
Combat over!
Sep 25, 2017 7:42 pm
As silence takes the tomb, Coda closes his eyes and clutches his flute close to his chest and shares in the tomb's silence. After a moment, without opening his eyes, "Maenor, I think you're best equipped to deal with the sword. I think we should return to the surface and inform the goblin what's happened; see if it's really over, things don't laugh like that in death."
Sep 25, 2017 11:31 pm
Maenor frowns darkly, deeply disturbed by the creature's laughter. He takes the heavy cloak and carefully wraps the sword, careful not to touch it. Taking rope from his pack, he ties it rather excessively, to the point that it will take quite some time to be able to unwrap it.
Sep 26, 2017 12:01 am
CancerMan sent a note to marithyme
Sep 27, 2017 7:33 pm
OOC:
Anything else you're going to do in this tomb?
Sep 27, 2017 10:13 pm
OOC:
Ready to go
Sep 28, 2017 6:32 am
OOC:
All ready here too.
Sep 28, 2017 9:07 am
OOC:
Yup, let's get out of here!
Sep 28, 2017 7:17 pm
Battered and weary, you climb the stairs to the surface and crawl through the stone wall and between close tree roots. It almost feels like the rock and wood have constricted, squeezing tighter as if to prevent you from leaving, but you all manage to push through and find yourselves standing outside the mound, breathing fresh air.

The first thing you notice is the sound of birdsong, faint twitters in the canopy nearby.

The second thing you notice is the smell of a campfire and cooked flesh, wafting in from the direction you left your horses.

You make your way to where you had secured your steeds and find them standing casually together, all semblance of nervousness gone. A small fire within a ring of stones sits in a cleared area not too far away, flames licking at a tent of small animals spitted upon thin metal skewers. The white-haired goblin sits cross-legged next to the fire, facing your approach.

It stands, using its small staff as support. "You're back," it says casually, though a tone of surprise is mixed within. "That was quick."
Sep 28, 2017 7:20 pm
"Yes, we're back. And we killed your great evil, too," Kalis says with an exhausted sigh.
Sep 28, 2017 7:35 pm
The white-haired goblin nods. "Already the land feels cleaner," it says, glancing up to the trees. "More alive. Come, sit and rest. I have just put food on the fire." It gestures for you to approach the warmth.
Sep 29, 2017 12:03 am
Maenor nods gratefully, "Thank you." He sits and places his burden nearby, sitting in silent thought. It didn't feel quick to me. I feel years older. And I worry about what we brought with us out of the darkness.
Sep 29, 2017 12:24 am
Coda doesn't make it as far as the makeshift camp, collapsing under his weight a couple feet away from it, letting out an exhausted groan as he hits the ground "A rest sounds nice..."
Sep 29, 2017 6:40 am
OOC:
You can all take a long rest if you like. Anything you'd wish to do in the meantime?

And everyone gains a level!
Sep 29, 2017 1:34 pm
Kalis settles down on the ground and then lays down, "I miss my bed," he says with a chuckle.
OOC:
I'll level tonight
Sep 30, 2017 4:46 am
"I miss your bed too." Coda slurs in a half delusion state, as he begins to inchworm crawl towards the camp zone.
OOC:
Took College of Lore. I briefly remember you saying we take max HP when we level. Is this correct or am I misremembering?
Sep 30, 2017 10:45 pm
OOC:
Correct, just add the max HP plus Constitution modifier.
Oct 1, 2017 11:53 pm
Maenor quirks a half-smile. He lays out the halfling's bedroll then gently picks Coda up and places him upon it. Looking over all of his other companions, he prepares to keep watch while they rest.
OOC:
Plan to trance once they have their required hours.
Oct 2, 2017 7:04 am
OOC:
I'm good to go.
Oct 2, 2017 2:11 pm
OOC:
I will post updates when I can get back to my desktop on the 4th!
Oct 5, 2017 6:37 am
You spend the quiet evening by the comfort of a warm fire. The hot meal drives away the cold of the nearby tomb, and settling into your bedrolls you are afforded a few silent moments of reflection from prior events. The horses and Maribel are fed and secure in their tethers.

Some of you spend some time inspecting the items you've collected from the sepulcher. Kalis discovers that the sharpened rod of wrought iron with ivory marble recovered is a Wand of the War Mage +1, and the robe is a Robe of Protection. Daniel finds that he holds a magical Dagger +1. Maenor realizes that the cloak is a Leaden Cloak. As for the sword, he understands that it is a magical blade with a heightened affinity for elves. The longsword makes him rather uncomfortable to be around it, but there's no intelligence behind the hatred, rather a strong aura surrounds the edge that makes Maenor's elvish blood cringe.

Eventually, sleep takes you as the outside chill is kept at bay.

You take turns on watch, and each of you notice that the white-haired goblin doesn't sleep. It maintains its own watch along with you, stoking the fire and observing the surroundings in quiet meditation. It does not talk, and gently shushes any of your attempts at conversation as it insists you all get your rest.
[ +- ] Wand of the War Mage +1
[ +- ] Robe of Protection
[ +- ] Leaden Cloak
[ +- ] Longsword +1, +2 vs Elves
Oct 5, 2017 1:40 pm
Kalis looks over the equipment that has been inspected, "Would anyone mind if I took this robe and the wand?" he asks sheepishly, not wanting to seem greedy.
Oct 5, 2017 11:18 pm
Maenor shrugs, "It makes no matter to me. He offers the sword to Coda, "My friend, would you find use for this? I think its blade is keen, but it makes my blood run cold. Does it do the same for you?"
Oct 6, 2017 4:12 am
"If you think you'll get the best use of them, by all means, take them." Coda replies to Kalis with a renewed and refreshed smile. He grabs the sword offered by Maenor "I...don't think so, feels like a sword to me. I'm not much of a sword person, though, but if no one else wants it I can hang onto it in the event that I do find use of it." He responds with a happy shrug.
Oct 6, 2017 6:57 am
The white-haired goblin stirs a light stew of leftover game and tubers. "Eat. When you are ready, I will take you to the lair of the dog-men. I know of a secret entrance that connects to their underground home. It lies in the desert, perhaps a day's travel from here."
Oct 6, 2017 12:23 pm
Kalis smiles at his companions, "Thank you!"

He then moves over and serves himself some food, "Thank you for the meal," he says with a grateful smile.
Oct 7, 2017 6:00 am
Coda gathers some food for himself and talks to the goblin in between bites "Do you know anything about the tomb? I have to go back in to return the mask that helped us, I do not wish to steal from the dead. Was wondering, now with the evil cleared out, if you know about the tomb; can you tour us and perhaps clear some of the mystery surrounding it?
Oct 7, 2017 6:26 am
"I do not know anything about the tomb, save that it was home to an unseemly and dark entity," says the white-haired goblin. "The tomb itself was already ancient when I learned of its location many seasons ago.

"If you wish to go back and return whatever you have found, it is your decision. If you wish me to accompany you, I can."
Oct 7, 2017 6:41 am
"Oh, guessing you don't know anything about the creature—other then that it was unseemly and dark. If you don't know much about the tomb, you don't need to accompany; unless you want to sight see. There was a lot of interesting things in there." Coda finishes his bowl and, if there is enough, goes in for seconds.
Oct 8, 2017 11:57 pm
"I don't much feel like returning, but I'll go with you. Perhaps we'll have a chance to study the place a bit more," Kalis says, standing and stretching after his meal.
Oct 9, 2017 10:44 pm
OOC:
Describe where you want to go and what you want to do within the tomb. Add any Investigation or skill checks you wish to apply in this endeavor.
Oct 10, 2017 2:04 pm
Kalis will mostly follow Coda to his destination, but will pause to investigate anything of interest that he sees.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(15) + 4 = 19

Investigation - (1d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

Generic roll for knowledge (+2 for Nature/Religion. +4 for Arcana/History) - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Oct 10, 2017 6:29 pm
Coda makes his way straight to where he found the mask, only stopping so those following him can investigate things they find of interest.
Oct 11, 2017 5:55 pm
The white-haired goblin opts to remain at the camp with your horses and waits for your return.

Travel through the tomb is uneventful given that you had cleared many rooms of the undead. The wight's armor of broken leathers still remains, though the ashes of the creature itself appear to have been scattered or blended into the general dust of time.

Kalis doesn't see anything out of the ordinary that hasn't already been discovered. It seems the only secret door was the one leading to the room with the four stone chests. He tries to make sense of Maerathol's words in their brief conversations, and surmises a hypothesis that it was one of the four brothers from the story depicted in carvings. He has little to base this on and can only rely on the assumption that since the being was ancient enough to have witnessed the internment of many in the tomb, it may have been the first. This hypothesis is buoyed by Maerathol's sarcophagus being located at the deepest point, likely in an attempt to seal it away as far as possible.

Coda is able to return the golden mask, balancing it up on the mummified corpse.
OOC:
Anything else any of you wish to do while in here?
Oct 12, 2017 4:05 am
"I do not know what side of this you fall on, but your mask protected us from probable certain death. For that, you have my thanks." Coda nods at his companions, a silent thanks for their company.
OOC:
All good.
Oct 12, 2017 11:31 pm
Maenor shifts from foot to foot, impatient to be off. As soon as Coda has finished he heads back to the entrance and their waiting guide.
Oct 13, 2017 12:56 am
The white-haired goblin is still there, patiently waiting. The campsite has been cleared and the reins of your horses are held in its hand. "If you are ready, I will fulfill my promise," it says. "We will be traveling for several days into the desert. I am sorry that it will take so long, but we will not be taking the direct route; less chance of discovery. You have enough supplies?"
Oct 13, 2017 1:26 pm
"I think so," Kalis replies, already looking through his pack to make sure.
Oct 14, 2017 3:10 am
"I'm not so sure I do...I have three for myself and ten for Maribel, so I don't have enough make it several days and only have enough for Maribel and not the others. If we're traveling through a desert though, food isn't my largest concern; I don't know these deserts but where I'm from, we'll hardly last a day with only these waterskins—especially with animals. Coda looks at the white-haired goblin "Perhaps you can persuade me otherwise, as they are your deserts and you know them better than I, but I think we should take the more direct route. You said less chance of discovery through the desert, meaning we still have a chance to get discovered. So why face certain death of dehydration if we still have a chance to be caught? I'd take the higher chance of discovery than fighting nature."
Oct 16, 2017 9:32 am
Maenor quirks an eyebrow, "I think we should follow his advice. Surely there is a way to bring enough water...perhaps we can search for some extra waterskins amongst the wreckage?"
Oct 16, 2017 1:07 pm
"Desert?" Kalis says, as if just realizing where they will be going, "Oh yes, I think that some more water would be a good idea. I've read that the greatest danger of desert travel is dehydration, so we'd best stock up now!"
Oct 16, 2017 4:21 pm
The white-haired goblin nods. "Very well. You may look through the remains of the wagons to see if anything can be salvaged." It turns and starts navigating the way out of the woods, heading in the general direction of the ruined caravan.
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Oct 17, 2017 12:01 am
Tiredly, Maenor rubs the back of his neck when he is struck with a sudden realization, "I have a spell! I can ask for the blessing of water. We need not carry extra."
OOC:
Thanks, GM. :)
Oct 17, 2017 6:01 am
"That doesn't solve the problem that we don't have enough feed for the horses; grass isn't known to grow vastly in the desert, they can't graze as they've been since we've got them. Coda pauses "I don't mind being a bit hungry throughout the journey but I think it is wrong to make the animals go through the same."
Oct 18, 2017 6:59 pm
The white-haired goblin looks at everyone in turn. "There may be some plants your horses could eat, but you are correct; it is a desert," it says, aware of the impending decision and looking apologetic at having nothing else to add.
Oct 19, 2017 1:10 am
"Is there anything we can pack to feed to our horses while we travel?" Kalis asks, being woefully ignorant of all things horse related.
Oct 19, 2017 9:29 am
"Perhaps we should consider leaving the horses here?"
Oct 19, 2017 12:51 pm
"If we are in no rush, give me ten minutes, I can give a voice to the voiceless." Coda takes a seat again.
OOC:
If agreed upon, I'll ritual cast speak with animals.
Oct 19, 2017 5:59 pm
The white-haired goblin does not rush you. The horses and Maribel also wait patiently.
OOC:
Assuming there are no interruptions, the spell takes effect.
Oct 20, 2017 5:59 am
Coda opens his eyes as the magic coats his tongue, he stands and makes his way to the horses and Maribel
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Last edited October 20, 2017 8:02 am
Oct 20, 2017 6:33 am
The horses snort and stamp their hooves, then whinny. Maribel, however, only gives a nicker and steps closer to Coda.
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Oct 20, 2017 8:40 am
Coda nods to the horses followed by giving Maribel a couple pats
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With another pat to Maribel, Coda turns back to the group "My worries have been eased. Maribel follows, the others wish to remain in their home—in the hills and grass."
Oct 20, 2017 9:12 am
Maenor nods, and begins removing tack from the horses.
Oct 22, 2017 1:08 am
The horses remain in place after stripped of saddle and blanket. As the reins are removed, it only takes a prompt from Coda to send them on their way. They disappear into the forest, in the direction of the grasslands.

The white-haired goblin takes all this in with only a nod to confirm that the party wishes to continue on. Whether it approves or not is uncertain, its posture and demeanor neutral to the decision. It begins to lead you out of the forest and back the way you first arrived, following the same path.

"Do you still wish to pursue the direct path?" it asks after a while, not looking back to see if you follow.
Oct 22, 2017 5:11 am
Coda walks along side Maribel, chatting with her until the spell fades. When the goblin asks his question, he shrugs "It doesn't matter to me anymore; water isn't a concern, thanks to Maenor, and I have enough feed for Maribel so she can comfortably make it through the extended detour."
Oct 22, 2017 10:29 am
"Take us the path you proposed, if you would. We are small in number; stealth is warranted."
Oct 22, 2017 2:25 pm
Kalis nods his agreement, "Sounds reasonable."
Oct 24, 2017 4:49 pm
You exit the Tenby Woods at the same point you first entered. The remains of the caravan are still there, including the bodies of the slain. Nothing of immediate value stands out, unless one finds worth in scrap wood and the odd nail.

Without sparing the wagons another glance, the white-haired goblin heads north into the Trackless Barren, picking its way through the dry scrub and across the parched soil. "Look there," it says, pointing at the ground with its staff. The goblin directs your view to a series of canid prints that head off to the northwest. The prints are heavy in the dirt as though supporting greater weight, and the digital pads tipped the claws appear bigger than any domestic dog you know of. What is distinct about these canid prints is that they clearly denote a walking gait from something standing on two legs.

There are at least half a dozen trails that can be seen from where you are, all heading northwest. "The dog-men lair that way. We will head north and make our approach from the east."
Oct 26, 2017 4:30 pm
As you trek further into the desert, a hot wind swallows you for the barest second before passing by. Clouds of dust kick up in tiny twisters, stinging your eyes as small bits of dirt and brush patter against you. When you look back the way you came, you notice that the dog tracks are gone.

You find little more than small lizards and insects during your trek through the Trackless Barren. Each rise and rocky outcrop in this desert looks like any other, leaving you with unreliable landmarks to gauge your progress. The white-haired goblin does not take you on a straight path, instead meandering around patches of scrub in seemingly different directions; sometimes you feel as though you move east for hundreds of yards and north for only twenty. It always feels like the sun hangs high in the sky for hours, giving you no bearing. It is only during the early morning and early evening when there is a discernible angle to orient yourselves in the cardinal directions.

The nights are cold. The goblin sets a very small fire, only enough to warm the evening meal. It offers to take its turn at watch, and bundles up into its robes to sleep with its staff tucked into its arms.

After a few days, you no longer have any idea where you are in the desert. Thankfully, your guide never seems to lose confidence in your direction, and in time you arrive at the remains of an ancient riverbed. Long-dried into a shallow canyon of rock, this scar in the desert would be easily missed from afar. The white-haired goblin takes you down, following one wall of layered and striated stone.

"Here," it says, pointing to an area of rock that looks like everything else. It takes a few more steps to reveal a narrow crack in the canyon wall, nestled in shadow.
Oct 27, 2017 2:13 am
Kalis wipes the sand out of his eyes to make sure he's not imagining things, "Ugh..." he groans, "The desert is usually far less horrible in the stories."
Oct 27, 2017 6:13 pm
Coda pats Kalis on the leg "Try not to focus so much on the heat, it makes it feel a lot worse than it actually is." the halfling smiles as he continues to follow the goblin. Arriving at the crack, he stares at it for a moment before speaking his mind "Is that large enough for the rest of them to fit? So easily hidden by a few steps."
Oct 27, 2017 6:22 pm
The opening is wide enough for everyone to pass through single-file. There is a puff of cooler air from within the dark interior that immediately dissipates in the heat.
Oct 27, 2017 8:26 pm
As they enter, Coda looks at Kalis with a grin, wraps his arms around himself, and gives a faux shiver as the cooler air hits them. He walks behind the goblin at a leisurely pace, basking in the refreshing air, in a lower tone he addresses the goblin "What should we be keeping an eye out for in here? Shelter from the sun in a desert is hardly left uninhabited."
Oct 28, 2017 12:24 am
Kalis smiles at Coda, "Good advice," he says as he enters behind the others.
Oct 29, 2017 7:34 am
"Snakes, scorpions... other desert creatures, perhaps," says the white-haired goblin. It stops a few feet from the entrance and continues, "This is a natural passage underground. At the very end there is a place where the cavern wall has collapsed to reveal a section of carved stone; part of the dog-men's lair."
Oct 29, 2017 10:44 pm
Kalis takes a deep breath to gather up his determination, then nods, "Let's do this."
Oct 30, 2017 8:59 am
"Thank you for your assistance," Maenor nods to the goblin, intuiting that he is not coming any further. I may have to reassess my assumptions about the goblin race. This individual has acted honorably, and in service to his tribe. Perhaps I have erred in my beliefs.

After a brief moment in thought he turns to his companions, "Do we risk a light, or will you follow close behind me?"
Oct 30, 2017 4:06 pm
"I suggest we do the best of both; go in dark but have a light source at our fingertips, just in case."
Oct 30, 2017 4:15 pm
"Will you be taking your pack animal, too?" asks the white-haired goblin.
Oct 30, 2017 9:22 pm
"That would be up to her, would it not?" Coda replies with a smile, petting Maribel and looking up at her "You want to come with us still, Maribel?"
Oct 31, 2017 9:30 am
Maenor smiles as Coda speaks to his beast. He bends down to pick up a small rock, murmurs a few words over it, and hands it to Kalis as it begins to glow brightly. "Hidden in your hand or pocket, it will not give us away, but should provide enough light for when you need it."
Oct 31, 2017 1:46 pm
Kalis smiles and takes the stone, "Thank you," he says and slips the stone into his pocket.
Last edited October 31, 2017 1:46 pm
Oct 31, 2017 4:24 pm
Maribel doesn't really respond to Coda, standing contentedly in the shade of the canyon wall.
Nov 3, 2017 2:33 am
"Let's bring her with us," Kalis suggests, patting Maribel on the head fondly, "No telling what will find her out here and I'd rather that Maribel doesn't get killed."
Nov 3, 2017 4:30 pm
You step single-file through the rock, finding yourselves once again underground. There is a slope to the first several yards as you descend, but the footing is solid and easy to traverse, and the ambient sunlight illuminates your way.

As you reach the bottom where the ground flattens out and extends into the darkness, Maribel stops. She seems reluctant to proceed.
OOC:
Perception check!
Nov 3, 2017 4:32 pm
Kalis peers into the darkness to see why Maribel stopped.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Nov 3, 2017 11:37 pm
Coda, more interested in calming Maribel, begins to stroke her side accompanied by gentle shushes.
Nov 4, 2017 11:12 am
Maenor looks around and listens carefully.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+6)

(15) + 6 = 21

Nov 6, 2017 6:18 pm
There is only silence at first. Soon, Maenor hears a soft hiss of air, like a wheezing bellows. It is rhythmic in a slow tempo, similar to the way a creature breathes, but it is sharp at first, followed by a slow intake of air.

It is coming from the ground, in a small nook near the feet of the person in front of the marching order. As Maenor listens, there is an explosive hiss, then silence.
Nov 8, 2017 10:28 am
Maenor softly asks, "The light, pass it to me...there is something strange herein."
Nov 8, 2017 3:56 pm
With the assistance of more light, Maenor sees a large crack along the base of the wall dug out through water and time. Nestled within the tight confines is the sheen of scales, tightly coiled in a nest of dozens of snakes.

They hiss again, an obvious warning now that they've been revealed. Maribel pulls on the rein to try and back up out of the underground.
Nov 9, 2017 4:05 am
Maribel receives no resistance as she pulls, as Coda follows her out.
Nov 9, 2017 2:12 pm
Kalis backs slowly away from the nest of snakes.
Nov 9, 2017 3:54 pm
The snakes do not pursue, seemingly content now that the perceived threat is departing.
Nov 10, 2017 1:20 am
"If this is our only way, we can take ten minutes and I can try to talk to them, tell them we just wish to pass and not harm them." Coda strokes Maribel's mane "Also, I'd be able to ease her worries and know how she's feeling."
Last edited November 11, 2017 10:13 am
Nov 10, 2017 4:52 pm
Ten minutes pass, and Coda once again expands his awareness and understanding.
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Nov 11, 2017 10:52 am
Coda pats Maribel
[ +- ] Horse
Coda turns to his group with a smile "I told her she will hang back with you. Seeing how I'm the only one who can speak to animals and we don't need everyone getting jumped on by a snake or two, I'll be spearheading this with you guys following at a safe distance; and since I'm spearheading and I can't see in the dark, I'll be needing one of your special rocks, Maenor. If you have any more, of course."
Nov 11, 2017 12:07 pm
Maenor shakes his head, "I can only light one at a time. Kalis will need to lend you his."
Nov 11, 2017 2:49 pm
Kalis pulls out the lit stone and hands it to Coda.
Nov 11, 2017 11:42 pm
The light reflects dully off the snake scales. Coda can hear the writhing voices from within the crack.
[ +- ] Snake
Nov 12, 2017 2:54 am
Coda stops as soon as the voices begin
[ +- ] Snake
Nov 12, 2017 3:15 am
OOC:
Coda, make a Persuasion check.
Nov 12, 2017 4:04 am
OOC:
Here ya go.

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+8)

(10) + 8 = 18

Nov 12, 2017 6:43 am
There is a moment of silence that washes in as the hissing and puffing slowly cease.
[ +- ] Snake
Nov 12, 2017 7:36 am
[ +- ] Snake
Coda waves at his party "They've agreed to a peaceful passage so long as we leave them alone. Keep to the side and we'll be fine."
[ +- ] Horse
Nov 12, 2017 1:32 pm
Maenor leads Maribel forward making soothing noises, and keeping a close eye on the snakes.
Nov 13, 2017 5:09 pm
You proceed down the narrow slope, trying to stay to the opposite side of the snake nest as much as possible. The hissing and puffing resume as your feet step dangerously close, but thus far the snakes remain inside their crack in the rock.

Maribel gets more and more nervous, the closer she comes to the snake. Maenor can feel her tugging on the reins.
OOC:
Maenor, roll an Animal Handling check, with Advantage granted by Coda's words.
Nov 15, 2017 11:24 am
"Hush now, Maribel, Coda won't let anything hurt you."

Rolls

animal handling - (1d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

with advantage - (1d20+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Nov 15, 2017 8:55 pm
There is a bit of a tug-of-war between Maenor and Maribel, and the pony stamps her hooves against the ground to resist the pull. This causes the snakes to hiss loudly, which Coda can understand as rising panic and dangerous fear.

Just when it seems like Maribel would betray Coda's promise to the serpents, Maenor gives an authoritative yank on the reins, causing her to bolt forward and past the snakes without harm.

You manage to put some safe distance between yourselves and the snakes, and Coda hears some... choice words in Snake that would make a mother blush.
OOC:
What's your marching order? The area you are in is still too narrow for two abreast, so you'll be single-file for now.
Nov 16, 2017 12:18 am
OOC:
Maenor would want to take the lead, both to protect his friends and because he's the only one that can see.
Nov 16, 2017 11:51 pm
OOC:
Kalis will take the middle
Nov 17, 2017 1:26 pm
You proceed onward, sloping gently underground. Maenor finds that the light begins to grow dim as you progress further away from the entrance, while Kalis and Coda find themselves walking into darkness despite the cleric's lead. Thankfully, the narrow passage provides those without darkvision the ability to feel their way forward, and the sound of Maenor's armor is like a guiding beacon. Maribel follows the elf obediently, led by the reins and calmer with each increase in distance from the snakes.

The natural tunnel twists and turns like a river, cutting off any ambient light from the surface and plunging you in complete darkness. In some places it nearly feels as though you've been turned back, but with diligence the path takes you deeper underground. Now the path begins to break, with cracks in the floor and abrupt shifts in level.
OOC:
Maenor, make a Survival check (at disadvantage unless someone decides to light a torch) to guide your companions across this Difficult Terrain.
Nov 17, 2017 10:11 pm
Maenor asks softly, "Pass up the light, if you would. The path here becomes chancy."
Nov 18, 2017 1:34 am
OOC:
I'll assume the light was given back to Kalis
Kalis takes the stone out and hands it off to Maenor, "Here you go," he whispers.
Nov 18, 2017 11:50 am
Maenor hands Maribel's reins back to Coda and picks his way carefully across the uneven ground.

Rolls

Survival - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Nov 19, 2017 6:39 am
Taking a careful pace, you navigate downward across the uneven terrain with little trouble. There is some trouble forcing Maribel down some of the stair-like ledges, but with dutiful nudges you eventually manage well.

You notice that the passage widens the further you progress, as though the rocky walls are giving in to your advance and allowing you more room. The ceiling of this passage remains constant, however, and soon it is lost in the darkness above your heads as you descend.

After half an hour of picking your way down, the magical light reveals smooth, worked stone that block your path. You have arrived at a wall, definitively constructed with intent, and it stretches beyond the edges of the passage and upward past your visual range.
Nov 20, 2017 1:37 pm
"Quite odd to have a path leading to a dead-end." Coda wonders out loud "Unless it is like that one room in the tomb!" He runs up to the wall and begins feeling around.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+3)

(13) + 3 = 16

Nov 20, 2017 4:12 pm
Coda does not find a door per se, but in his inspection he discovers that the mortar around the stones is quite loose and crumbles at his touch.
Nov 20, 2017 4:40 pm
"It's...old? Call me a cut down tree because I'm stumped. Why build this extravagant wall just to abandon it and leave it to ruin? At a dead-end of all things too!" Coda kicks the wall (with the bottom of his foot) in frustration.
Nov 20, 2017 5:07 pm
OOC:
Give me a Strength check.
Nov 20, 2017 5:15 pm
.

Rolls

Strength - (1d20+2)

(10) + 2 = 12

Nov 20, 2017 5:40 pm
As Coda's boot impacts the stone, the brick shifts into the wall with a dull thud and scrape. The stone is not completely dislodged, but has moved significantly.
Nov 21, 2017 12:26 am
Maenor holds up a hand, "Wait a moment, if you would..." He pockets the light source and peers about to see if light is coming through the wall anywhere.
Nov 21, 2017 12:40 am
You are all plunged into darkness as the light is concealed. The stone has not moved significantly enough, and the wall appears to be quite thick. Maenor's darkvision shows that the stone has shifted approximately 3 inches from Coda's kick, and he presumes based on a rough hypothesis that these blocks are at least a foot thick.
Nov 21, 2017 2:52 pm
Kalis stands quite still in the dark, waiting patiently for the light to return. He begins humming softly to himself to the tune of a ballad that he once heard.
Nov 21, 2017 10:31 pm
Maenor returns the light and suggests, "Perhaps if we push together, but slowly? I worry about drawing attention prematurely."
Nov 22, 2017 1:27 am
"That's what you're worry about? I worry that when we push the stone out the wall will come down like a guillotine or, even worse still, as a whole encasing us." Coda looks up at the towering-beyond-vision wall with unease.
Nov 22, 2017 3:02 am
OOC:
Anyone can attempt an Intelligence check on the wall to discern the feasibility of Coda's concerns.
Nov 22, 2017 10:12 am
Maenor examines the wall.

Rolls

intelligence check - (1d20+3)

(1) + 3 = 4

Nov 22, 2017 2:21 pm
Kalis inspects the wall to see if Coda's concerns are reasonable.

Rolls

Int Check - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Nov 22, 2017 4:10 pm
Maenor lacks the experience with architecture and construction to make an informed decision. However, Kalis can see that as long as the right stones are removed, the wall should not collapse.

Each stone is 2-feet wide and 1-foot tall and are laid in an overlapping sequence. Kalis can tell which stones should be touched and is confident that enough space can be made to crawl through, at least. He is reasonably sure that with more work and more time, a larger space can be cleared to allow people to walk through.
Nov 22, 2017 4:34 pm
"I think I've got it," Kalis says, turning to the others to explain and pointing out which blocks need to be removed...
Nov 22, 2017 4:46 pm
OOC:
Which method will you choose: crawl-space or walk-space?
Nov 22, 2017 4:51 pm
OOC:
Walk-space, or we'll have to leave Maribel behind
Nov 22, 2017 5:46 pm
OOC:
Everyone give me a Strength and Constitution check!
Nov 22, 2017 5:55 pm
OOC:
Str and Con!

Rolls

Str Check - (1d20+1)

(11) + 1 = 12

Con Check - (1d20+3)

(2) + 3 = 5

Nov 22, 2017 6:37 pm
OOC:
.

Rolls

Str. - (1d20+2)

(8) + 2 = 10

Con. - (1d20+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

Nov 23, 2017 12:54 am
...

Rolls

strength - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

constitution - (1d20+2)

(12) + 2 = 14

Nov 23, 2017 6:11 pm
It is chaotic at first, like the proverbial number of chefs around the broth. Kalis contributes, but finds his energy lagging as time goes on and reassigns himself to directing the others. Coda, despite his small size, does his fair share of moving the stones, but eventually his arms begin to grow weak and he instead works to loosen the mortar to make things easier. Maenor works tirelessly, shifting the blocks free and clearing a way.

As the first block is removed, the light reveals what appears to be a wooden wall. You soon realize it is a crate, marked with the faded and scuffed brand of a merchant from Frysor. As more stones are cleared, you can see that you're outside a small storage room filled with containers. Barrels and sacks lie against the unremarkable stone walls, which rise to a plain stone ceiling 10-feet-high. There is a door opposite you.

The work takes the better part of two hours. You now have a portal 5-feet-tall and wide enough to allow passage through. Of course, you also now have a waist-high stack of crates and barrels that bar your way.
Nov 24, 2017 10:20 am
Maenor sighs deeply. He suggests, "Perhaps someone should climb over and guard the door while we shift these? I know it is futile to suggest leaving Maribel here, where she can be safe."
Nov 24, 2017 3:04 pm
"I already showed that I'm not much good for physical labor," Kalis says, "I'll go to the other side and keep an eye out."

With that, he climbs over the crates and stands near the door to keep an eye out.
Nov 24, 2017 4:16 pm
Some of the crates are already open, and Kalis can see a variety of non-perishable items: blankets, clothing, small pieces of equipment and tools, as well as a few esoteric items. Other containers are sealed.

The door itself is made of wood and bands of iron, and looks in reasonably good shape. Kalis can tell that the door would open inward.

Map
Nov 28, 2017 10:29 am
Maenor begins carefully moving just enough of the crates and the boxes for Maribel to get through. He tries to be as quiet as he can.
Nov 28, 2017 4:20 pm
Moving the crates proves easier than the heavy stones, and soon a passage is clear for everyone to pass through unimpeded.
OOC:
Perception check!
Nov 28, 2017 4:51 pm
OOC:
Perception!

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(6) + 4 = 10

Nov 28, 2017 4:58 pm
Kalis smells the unmistakable scent of meat cooking on a fire.
Nov 29, 2017 10:16 am
Maenor sits on a crate a moment to catch his breath and reattune himself to his senses.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+6)

(12) + 6 = 18

Nov 29, 2017 4:02 pm
Maenor also smells the cooking food with hints of rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. He can hear the bubbling of a stew with carrots, onions, and potatoes.

Maenor also hears the shuffling of feet and the light chop of a knife on wood.
Dec 1, 2017 11:32 pm
Kalis sniffs loudly a couple of times, "Looks like we came to the right place... I smell food."
Dec 2, 2017 12:26 pm
Maenor smiles softly at the human’s blunt assessment. He agrees, "Indeed. We are most likely in a pantry for a kitchen, of sorts. We should move swiftly to incapacitate the cook."
Dec 2, 2017 5:34 pm
"Incapacitate how? I don't think any of us have the means of a quiet kill. I may have something that will allow me to go in there undetected and scout it out so we can come up with a better plan. Thoughts?" Coda whispers to the group.
Dec 6, 2017 10:30 am
Maenor readily agrees, "More information would be best."
Dec 7, 2017 4:41 pm
"That sounds like a good plan," Kalis agrees, "We will wait here for you to check it out."
Dec 7, 2017 4:45 pm
Maribel pokes her nose into one of the open crates, inspecting its contents. Not finding anything interesting, she snorts out the scents and shakes her head violently, before settling in to wait once more.

Maenor thinks he hears that the sound of the knife on the cutting board pause for a bit, before it resumes.
Dec 8, 2017 12:19 am
Coda nods "Very well, I'll take but a moment." He gives Maribel a gentle pat on her leg before walking forward into the opened passage. He recites a incantation and vanishes from sight.
OOC:
Casting Invisibility.
Dec 11, 2017 7:11 pm
Coda disappears from view. Soon after, the door that Kalis is guarding opens on its own.

Beyond the doorway is a large room that has been organized into a kitchen. A set of shelves stocked with a variety of dried goods and preserved foods line two of the plain stone walls, and a fireplace is bright with flames licking the underside of iron pots and kettles strung on a spit. A small counter rests against the wall, and a sizeable island table in the center of the room is laden with vegetables and grains.

Standing at the island, back to the opening door, is a human male. He is dressed in plain garments soiled with dirt and grease, and is cutting several carrots into small pieces.

Map
OOC:
Coda, make a Stealth check, with Advantage.
Dec 12, 2017 1:19 am
OOC:
.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+6, 1d20+6)

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

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

Dec 12, 2017 2:12 am
The man does not appear to notice the door, nor the presence of the invisible halfling.

Coda can see that in the far corners of the room, there are open doors leading into hallways. Torchlight spills into the hallways from beyond.

There is a closed door along the same wall as the storage pantry Coda arrived from.
Dec 12, 2017 3:15 am
Coda keeps to the wall and makes his way to the open door, peaking through to see where it leads.
Dec 14, 2017 4:20 pm
Down the south hallway, Coda sees a narrow and evenly-constructed passage that turns westward. There is a closed door in the corner.

To his immediate west, Coda finds an expansive chamber with a high ceiling. Luxurious pillows are piled against the wall, and a low table adorned with goblets and fine plates is decked with fruit and meat. Braziers illuminate the room, filled with smokeless tinder. Coda can smell a bit of incense.

He notices a hallway leaving the chamber further west, and that the chamber itself extends northward beyond his immediate view.

Map with the current view
Dec 14, 2017 10:40 pm
Coda can't help but be drawn to the luxurious room and finds himself mindlessly entering, taking in the pleasure scent of the incense. If no one shares the room with him, he grabs a handful of easily available fruit and pops them into his mouth before continuing his mission.
Dec 14, 2017 11:02 pm
There IS someone sharing the large chamber with Coda. Just as he enters into the room, he cannot help but notice the large leonine creature sprawled on silken pillows just to his north. The powerful, tawny body dominates the cushions, while a long tail coils around thick legs that end in sharp claws.

A man reclines just above the giant cat, curls of black hair atop his head neatly groomed to a well-trimmed beard. His bare chest of taut muscle rises and falls with shallow breath, and his kohl-rimmed eyes are closed in apparent slumber.

Coda then realizes that he does not see a man and his pet lion, but rather that the man's body merges into the cat-like form! He recognizes this creature as a lamia, known to be vain and evil with seductive charm.
OOC:
I apologize for the lack of clarity in the map. I meant for the gray boxes to indicate areas beyond the field of vision. I will instead use solid black, and I've moved Coda back towards the party since the reveal would likely change his action.
Map
Dec 14, 2017 11:47 pm
Coda's stride, as he makes his way to get some fruit, is halted at the reveal of the half-lion man. He does a 180 and leave the room, not wanting to even attempt at passing by it. He follows the other hall down and hopes it doesn't lead back into the lion-man room.
Dec 15, 2017 12:43 am
After rerouting himself, Coda can see the south hall passes through at least three chambers before disappearing in a straight line into the distance. These rooms are dimly-lit compared to the kitchen and luxurious lamia chamber, with only a hodge-podge of candles and small torches scattered about. He can see grimy mats and bedrolls on the floor, along with small open crates containing a variety of equipment. Each room appears unoccupied.
Dec 15, 2017 3:50 am
Coda notes the odd contrast between the lion-man's room and this one before shrugging and moving on. Feeling he shouldn't push his luck too much, he makes his way across the kitchen and checks the other side.
Dec 15, 2017 6:41 am
When Coda returns to the kitchen, the man has moved to the fireplace and is adding his chopped vegetables to a bubbling pot.
OOC:
Make a Stealth check with Advantage.
Dec 15, 2017 10:34 am
.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+6, 1d20+6)

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

1d20+6 : (3) + 6 = 9

Dec 15, 2017 4:07 pm
Coda's passing goes unnoticed by the man, who turns from the fireplace to the shelves on the opposite side of the room (near the open door to the pantry where Maenor and Kalis remain). The halfling notices a distant, faraway look in the man's eyes before the other person moves away.

The northern hallway looks like a mirror of the one to the south, turning west at a closed door.

Map
Dec 16, 2017 2:01 am
Coda does a quick peek around the corner to see if his suspicions are confirmed and that it is more "bedrooms".
Dec 16, 2017 9:13 pm
Indeed, the chambers beyond appear similar to the rooms he saw to the south, filled with minor sundries and bedrolls scattered around the floor.

However, Coda sees that these rooms appear occupied with thin and scrawny dogs, each curled asleep on a mat. These canids seem larger than normal, about the size of an average human, and indeed look more humanoid in shape than what might be expected. These, perhaps, are the "dog men" that the white-haired goblin referred to.

Coda notes that not all the bedrolls are occupied, though it is difficult to tell if each of these dog-men have claim to specific places.

Map
Dec 16, 2017 9:40 pm
Coda does his best to contain his excitement and turns to return back to his group. Having fun with his invisibility, he pinches Kalis' leg.
Dec 16, 2017 9:57 pm
Kalis leaps up as the invisible person pinches him and yells in alarm, turning to face this new threat...
Dec 16, 2017 10:38 pm
Coda shushes Kalis then checks on the cook to see if he was alerted by the yell.
Dec 16, 2017 10:42 pm
A voice comes from the kitchen, "What? Gods above, I swear you mutts never learn." A string of muttering curses grow louder as someone approaches the pantry.
Dec 16, 2017 11:31 pm
Coda lets out a uneasy, soft groan before whispering to himself and the group "Uhh, buy time, buy time...The place is haunted, we're spooky ghosts; do spooky magic stuff.."

With that he slams the pantry door and lets out a loud "OoOoooOoOoh!"
Dec 17, 2017 1:41 pm
Maenor pinches the bridge of his nose, but swiftly moves to position himself beside the closed door.
Dec 17, 2017 7:44 pm
Kalis also moves to the side of the door, getting himself out of plain view.
Dec 17, 2017 9:00 pm
"I swear, I'll gut you and make stock out of your bones, see how he likes it," mumbles the voice from the other side of the door. The door swings open violently and the man stomps into the pantry, armed with a ladle. "Come on, outta there! Git!" he shouts, waving his implement like a lasso.
OOC:
Consider this a surprise round. You all have an action!
Dec 17, 2017 9:57 pm
Still adamant that his plan can work, Coda continues his ghostly guise. "BooOones are a weakness tooOooO thooOoose with a moOortal standing. YoOou'll find nooOooO booOones oOon MaerathooOol." He picks up something light and raises it above his head, giving it the appearance of floating.
Dec 18, 2017 12:58 am
Maenor steps behind the man and grabs him, with a hand over his mouth.

Rolls

grapple - (1d20+2)

(18) + 2 = 20

Dec 18, 2017 7:09 pm
"Wha-?" says the man, staring in confusion at the floating tankard. The delay is just enough to allow Maenor to grab the man, silencing any further cries. The man's eyes flit back and forth wildly, body tense with panic. His ladle is raised, but given the circumstances it remains held out, non-threateningly.
Dec 19, 2017 9:05 pm
Kalis breathes a sigh of relief, glad that he's not going to have to fight and possibly kill a man.
Dec 19, 2017 10:14 pm
The man's eyes clearly show fear, trying to look about for the presence of danger (besides the floating tankard). His body is stiff and easily held in place. He can tell that someone has grabbed him, and this knowledge does not make for a calm demeanor.
Dec 19, 2017 11:04 pm
Coda lets out a wheezing laugh "What's the matter? It loOoOks like yoOoou've seen a ghoOoOoost." He tosses the tankard to the side "Did we remember to bring the brain extracting implements this time? I'd hate to have to dispose him like we had to that last guy. What? Do we have to? But that isn't any--Yes, Master."

Coda lets out a heavy sigh "It seems luck looks upon you cook, my Master wants us to do things the 'Ooold fashion way'. So I'll lay some rules down. Rule one: I follow one person, that person isn't you. I ask questions, you answer; easy. Rule two: My Master has limitation on their control on me, push those and you will regret it. If you so make a peep louder than I find pleasing, you will be the main dish for tonight--in fact I quite enjoy eating cooks, I find them to be a bit more potent in flavor, like they've been marinating themselves. Easy to follow, only two rules. How cool is that? Nod if we understand these rules and we'll be quiet."
Last edited December 20, 2017 12:57 am
Dec 19, 2017 11:44 pm
The man's eyes frown. He does not yet nod, seemingly engrossed in parsing out the rules. However, realizing that he needs to supply an answer to something he doesn't quite understand, he begins to grow more panicked.

Finally, he vigorously nods.
Dec 20, 2017 1:01 am
"Wonderful." Coda lets out a small clap "Associate, if you are satisfied with his nod, you may release his mouth-hole. I'll start out easy so you can get a feel for how things are going to go... First question, what were you cooking?"
Dec 21, 2017 12:50 am
Maenor slowly lifts his hand from the man's mouth and rests his forearm across his throat instead, ready to act if the cook fails to comply.
Dec 21, 2017 6:52 am
The man's gaze continuously looks about for the source of the voice, despite knowing its general direction. "Um, supper," he says, slowly. He begins to turn his head to look behind him, when he feels the forearm upon his neck and freezes in place. "Beef stew," he croaks out.
Dec 21, 2017 9:45 am
"Mmmm, that does sound quite tasty. Though it does sound a bit peasanty, certainly not fit for the lion man in his palace-like room. Who is he and how come he lives extravagantly while the rest of you live in borderline squalor?"
Dec 21, 2017 3:55 pm
The man says, "He is The Master. This is his palace."
Dec 22, 2017 8:44 am
"That doesn't really answer my question, chef; his name is 'The Master'? Why do you serve him when he makes you sleep in trash even though he obviously has some semblance of a fortune?"
Dec 22, 2017 4:15 pm
The man swallows. "Um, he is The Master," he repeats nervously, instinctively flinching despite not seeing anything. "I serve him because he is my master, and I am his servant." His voice begins to rise in panic.
Dec 23, 2017 11:03 am
"Relax, these are the easy questions. Remember?

Coda whispers to Kalis "Brainwash? I'm thinking brainwash."

"But what is in it for you? 'The Master' gets free servicing and fancy living while you eek by in filth; seems like a horrible trade-off."
Dec 23, 2017 5:06 pm
"To serve is to live," says the man, gulping against Maenor's arm. "If I don't obey, I will become The Master's next meal, or torn apart by his jackalweres!"

Suddenly, his eyes grow wide. "The food! Please, I can't let the stew burn. Let me go!" He strains against Maenor's grasp.
OOC:
Maenor can make a Strength (Athletics) contest if he wants to maintain his grapple.

Rolls

Athletics - (1d20-1)

(16) - 1 = 15

Dec 26, 2017 3:00 pm
Kalis looks concerned, jackalweres? he thinks to himself, feeling sorry for this person.
Dec 27, 2017 1:07 pm
Maenor tightens his grip and calmly states, "The stew will be fine, you've only been gone a few minutes. How many people live here, other than your master? Do you have any prisoners?"

This questioning ends in an Elven curse as the man struggles free.
Last edited December 27, 2017 1:08 pm

Rolls

strength - (1d20+2)

(9) + 2 = 11

Dec 27, 2017 4:36 pm
The man leaves Maenor's questions unanswered, and the room you are all in, hurrying back into the kitchen.
Dec 31, 2017 1:18 pm
Maenor follows quickly after, not making any hostile motion, but ready to act if the cook seems to do anything but cook.
Jan 2, 2018 6:41 pm
The man immediately heads to the fireplace and begins stirring the pot. He appears less frantic, now that he is in apparent control of the food.

He looks over his shoulder now, and seeing Maenor, gives the elf a once-over. He speaks quietly, "You don't look like a ghost."
Jan 4, 2018 10:20 am
Maenor smiles gently, "No, I'm quite real." He walks closer casually and, looking in the pot, asks, "Have you ever tried oregano?"

Meanwhile, he turns his keen hearing to focus on sounds of stirring from elsewhere in the complex.
Jan 4, 2018 4:36 pm
"Only got what's in the stores," says the man, flinching a bit at the approaching elf. He seems concerned about Maenor's proximity, obviously not fully trusting the stranger just yet. "Um... Whoever you are, you best get out before you're captured. And if they find you here, it'll be the end for both of us."

Maenor does not hear anything else from beyond the kitchen.
Jan 6, 2018 2:41 am
"Can't do that, I'm afraid," Kalis says, "We have things to take care of."
Jan 6, 2018 7:28 am
The man turns, pausing only briefly to assess the fact that there are now two individuals in the kitchen. He lifts the pot out of the fireplace and walks it over to the island to set it upon some tile. "Your loss, then," he says, his voice low. "Whatever you're going to do, do it away from here. If you're lucky, they'll just kill you quick."
Jan 10, 2018 10:34 am
Maenor exchanges an inquisitive look with Kalis, unsure which direction to go. He begins heading toward one of the doors on the north wall, hoping that Coda will redirect him if he's guessing wrong.
Jan 10, 2018 7:31 pm
"Awp-Awp, Friend-Maenor" Coda calls out quietly "I'd advise having a plan, there is something here I've never seen before--a half-man, half-lion and a handful of, what I believe to be the dog-men. Going in there unprepared could spell trouble."
Last edited January 10, 2018 7:31 pm
Jan 11, 2018 10:27 am
Maenor stops, turns, and walks back into the pantry...thinking back on what he knows of such creatures.

Rolls

Arcana (+3 if should use Nature instead) - (1d20+5)

(12) + 5 = 17

Jan 11, 2018 5:02 pm
The man turns his head towards the third voice, and realizes there's nobody there. Frowning, he looks back at the two he can see. "That's the Master he's talking about, the man-lion. That thing rules the jackalweres and takes us as slaves. Whichever one of you is Maenor, you're already in trouble. I still insist, get out while you can before he takes you, too."

Maenor has heard of such creatures before, and recalls that lamias are wicked and cruel monsters. They are rumored to seduce and enchant their victims, rendering them pliable to their will and dominating them as slaves. Some texts reference a lamia's association with jackalweres, shapeshifting creatures that can switch forms between a human or a jackal, or something in-between.
Jan 12, 2018 2:58 am
Kalis tries to recall anything he can that would resemble the description they've been given.

Rolls

Arcana - (1d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

Jan 12, 2018 10:19 am
Maenor quickly and quietly explains what he knows as soon as they reach the pantry and are out of earshot of the cook. He suggests, "I think we should take out the monster first, for it is far more dangerous than its minions. That we have heard and seen no sign may mean that they yet slumber."
Jan 12, 2018 10:45 am
Coda raises his hand, pointlessly "I have seen them and they but sleep in the room over; those that slumber can easily be woke. I do not think it is beneficial to fight this "the Master" and his slave dogmen."
Jan 12, 2018 4:38 pm
As the party reconvenes in the pantry, Kalis can remember much the same as Maenor, though a lamia's association with jackalweres is new to him.
Jan 15, 2018 10:25 am
Maenor replies quietly but insistently, "So you would leave our mission undone? Those innocents unavenged?"
Jan 15, 2018 11:23 am
Coda shakes his head, again pointlessly not really grasping the whole concept of being invisible "Not what I was saying. I simply think we need a new plan of attack. Charging in there, weapons drawn, hungry for blood will surely put at least one of us in an early grave or worse, leave us as one of his mindless slaves. The only problem is I'm at a standstill of other options."
Jan 15, 2018 1:32 pm
Maenor quirks and eyebrow and asks, "Who said anything about charging? We sneak in, I cast Silence on the bedchamber, and we take out the Master without the others having any idea of what happened."
Jan 15, 2018 2:35 pm
Coda smiles, less pointlessly as you can hear it slightly in his tone "Well, why didn't you start with that? That is definitely a good option, one that I am in favor of."
Jan 15, 2018 10:29 pm
Meanor smiles slightly and continues, "The two of you will need to stay outside the area of silence to cast your spells. I will do my best to keep the monster inside."
Jan 16, 2018 4:52 am
Kalis smiles and nods, happy to let the more experienced members of the team make the plans, "Stay back and throw spells... got it!"
Jan 16, 2018 7:00 pm
OOC:
In case you were waiting for a prompt, you're free to take whatever actions you deem necessary. Or, you can plan some more.
Jan 17, 2018 9:52 am
Maenor looks at each of them, and barring any further comments, heads out the door back into the kitchen.
Jan 19, 2018 6:50 pm
The man is at the island, cutting loaves of bread. He glances over at Maenor's reappearance, and with a shake of his head resumes his knife-work. He makes no effort at initial conversation, nor does he appear to deviate from his tasks, and otherwise seems indifferent to Maenor's presence.
Jan 25, 2018 1:00 am
OOC:
Assuming you guys are following. If not, this is going to be a very short battle.
Maenor waits until the man turns back to his work then walks over to one of the doors leading into the lion-man's lair and quietly eases it open.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+4)

(18) + 4 = 22

Jan 25, 2018 1:33 am
Coda follows and readies his sling.

Rolls

Assuming I'm still invisible (Stealth) - (1d20+6, 1d20+6)

1d20+6 : (12) + 6 = 18

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

Jan 25, 2018 3:22 am
Kalis takes a long silent breath and then moves to follow, silent as he can.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+3)

(4) + 3 = 7

Jan 25, 2018 7:38 pm
Maenor and Coda make it to the opulant chamber, quietly stepping past pillows and avoiding the nearest table. Maenor can now see the lamia, still sleeping atop the pile of silken fluff.

Kalis follows the others, but as he passes by the kitchen counter, his robe catches on a fork and drags it off! He quickly twists and kneels to grab the utensil before it can clatter to the ground. Silently, his fingers clasp around the fork a mere inch from the floor!

Thankful to have averted disaster, Kalis inadvertently lets out an audible sigh of relief.

The lamia snorts. He takes in a deep breath, body shifting in place as he rolls the muscles in his back and brings his arms up over his head to stretch, much like a man rousing from slumber.

Map
Jan 26, 2018 12:39 am
Once his friends are inside and have closed the door behind them, Maenor doesn't hesitate in quietly pointing at the distance the spell encompasses before casting it on the bed on which the creature sleeps.
[ +- ] Silence
Jan 26, 2018 6:53 pm
The area goes quiet. You see the lamia fully stretch his arms over his head, and the leonid legs stretch out as the sharp claws extend. There is no sound, a fact which settles upon the lamia as his expression shifts into mild confusion. His eyes begin to flutter open.
Jan 31, 2018 6:41 pm
OOC:
The Silence spell has taken effect. Coda and Kalis have an action they may take as well as movement.
Jan 31, 2018 10:26 pm
OOC:
Sorry I was waiting on Maenor, for some reason it didn't click that the spell was an action.
Coda winds up his sling and silently releases it towards the lamia, reappearing as the bullet flies towards his target.

Rolls

Advantage (because invisible?) - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d4+4)

1d20+6 : (18) + 6 = 24

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

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

Feb 1, 2018 7:24 pm
The bullet thwacks against the lamia's head... or at least it looks like it does. No sound emits from the impact, but you see the lamia react in pain and flinch away.
Feb 5, 2018 7:46 pm
OOC:
Kalis is moving house, so I'll take his Action for him.
Kalis grasps his new wand, muttering arcane words well outside the boundary of Maenor's Silence spell. Three bolts of fire streak out towards the lamia.

Rolls

Scorching Ray, Advantage, Fire Damage - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 2d6)

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

1d20+6 : (12) + 6 = 18

2d6 : (25) = 7

Scorching Ray, Advantage, Fire Damage - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 2d6)

1d20+6 : (3) + 6 = 9

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

2d6 : (56) = 11

Scorching Ray, Advantage, Fire Damage - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 2d6)

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

1d20+6 : (7) + 6 = 13

2d6 : (56) = 11

Critical Hit - (2d6)

(23) = 5

Feb 5, 2018 8:05 pm
The fiery beams explode against the lamia, burning his flesh and setting the pillows aflame. His mouth opens in a silent roar and it appears ready to rise.
OOC:
Player turn! The last round was surprise, and you get to act again.
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Feb 5, 2018 9:46 pm
OOC:
Thanks for doing my turn for me!
Kalis sees how effective his last barrage of fire was and launches another!
[ +- ] Scorching Ray
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Scorching Ray #1 - (1d20+6, 2d6)

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

2d6 : (65) = 11

Scorching Ray #2 - (1d20+6, 2d6)

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

2d6 : (13) = 4

Scorching Ray #3 - (1d20+6, 2d6)

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

2d6 : (55) = 10

Feb 6, 2018 12:50 am
Maenor draws his longsword and lunges forward.

Rolls

longsword attack - (1d20+5)

(15) + 5 = 20

damage - (1d8+3)

(2) + 3 = 5

Feb 6, 2018 2:47 am
Coda spins his sling again and flings the bullet at the lamia.

Rolls

Attack/Damage - (1d20+6, 1d4+4)

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

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

Feb 6, 2018 3:41 am
The smoke from burning flesh, hair, and fabric distort the lamia's image, throwing off the aim for Coda and Kalis. One blast of fire finds its mark, detonating against the creature's temple.

Maenor is less bothered by the smoke as he steps forward, and his magical blade bites deeply into the lamia's chest. He readies himself for the counterattack as the lamia appears fully awake and enraged.

The lamia's muscled arm twitches, but instead of a fist, the leonid foreleg flashes out and gouges deeply into Maenor's side (24 vs AC 17, 15 slashing damage). Now the fist comes, and Maenor is better prepared for the strike as he deflects the blow with his shield.

The lamia roars again, though it only looks that way as no one hears anything. It rises and leaps away from the burning pillows, rushing past Maenor to land with a silent crash upon the table. The furniture collapses under the impact, scattering goblets, candles, and fruit.
OOC:
Player turn! Maenor may use a Reaction for an Opportunity Attack, if he so chooses.
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Feb 6, 2018 10:11 am
Grunting silently under the blow, Maenor lashes out with his blade as the creature streaks past.

Rolls

longsword attack - (1d20+5)

(1) + 5 = 6

damage - (1d8+3)

(7) + 3 = 10

Feb 6, 2018 4:23 pm
Maenor begins his swing, but his body involuntarily jerks the blade short as the pain from his side flares. He can feel his clothes becoming wet with his blood.
OOC:
Technically, D&D 5e treats natural 1s as just an automatic miss. I suppose it is up the individual DMs to decide whether or not there ought to be punishment. :)

Everyone can take their turn. The map has a border showing the silenced area.
Feb 7, 2018 3:14 am
Kalis levels his wand once more, chants under his breath, and hurls a bolt of fire at the lamia.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+6, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (7) = 7

Feb 7, 2018 4:42 am
Coda runs forwards into the silence, swinging his sling and releasing a bullet.

Rolls

Attack/Damage - (1d20+6, 1d4+4)

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

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

Feb 7, 2018 9:05 am
Gritting his teeth against the pain in his side, Maenor leaps onto the table beside the lamia and strikes out with his sword once more.
Last edited February 7, 2018 9:06 am

Rolls

longsword attack - (1d20+5)

(3) + 5 = 8

Feb 7, 2018 4:56 pm
The broken table collapses further under the additional weight, which throws off Maenor's aim. The shifting bodies also cause Kalis to barely miss with his magical attack.

Coda repositions himself and lets his bullet fly. He also begins to realize that the pillows he stands amidst are on fire, threatening to cook him alive should it engulf completely.

Frustrated by the silence, the lamia lashes out with his claws towards Maenor. At that moment, Coda's bullet finds its mark against the lamia's cheek, fully distracting the monstrosity and causing all of the lamia's attacks to catch empty air.

The lamia tries once again to remove itself from the silence, leaping off the broken table and heading west down the large archway into the chamber beyond. Maenor and Coda can see that the adjoining room is practically empty, with a small number of lit wall sconces and a long sequence of shelves containing various sundries and clothing.
OOC:
Player turn! Maenor may make another Opportunity Attack if he desires.
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Feb 7, 2018 5:12 pm
Coda rushes forward, loading and spinning up another bullet into his sling, and releases his towards the lamia. He tugs on Maenor's robes before making his way back towards Kalis.

Rolls

Attack/Damage - (1d20+6, 1d4+4)

1d20+6 : (14) + 6 = 20

1d4+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

Feb 8, 2018 12:36 am
Maenor tries to catch the creature as it retreats.

Rolls

longsword attack - (1d20+5)

(18) + 5 = 23

damage - (1d8+3)

(6) + 3 = 9

Feb 8, 2018 12:38 am
He then follows, humming to himself. As soon as he can hear himself he drops the original spell and recasts it centered on the new room.
Feb 8, 2018 12:38 am
OOC:
Also, I'm down 15 hp. Not that I mind if you want him to be magically healed, but want to play it honest.
Feb 10, 2018 3:14 am
Kalis moves closer to get a better angle and takes a deep breat, holding it to steady his shaky hands. Holding his right arm straight out, he summons the power of his draconic blood and feels a ball of fire form on his hand. Exhaling, he releases the energy and the fire streaks toward the Lamia.

Rolls

Firebolt - (1d20+6, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (6) = 6

Feb 11, 2018 3:53 am
The ranged attacks assail the lamia, chasing him as he tries to gain more distance. For a brief moment, he can hear the crackle of the fire and the impacts of his paws, and he opens his mouth to roar.

Nothing happens. Maenor's divine silence drops upon the lamia like a shroud. Bloodied, burnt, and bruised, the lamia looks worse for wear. He appears to snarl and bounds for the north hallway, trying to flee.
OOC:
Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Feb 11, 2018 9:59 am
Maenor drops the spell and dashes after the creature, closing the distance to try and prevent its escape.
Feb 12, 2018 1:35 am
Kalis follows Maenor's lead and rushes into the room after him.
OOC:
Took the dash action!
Feb 13, 2018 5:13 am
Coda moves forward in a panic, watching his party charge forward "No, he is going to wake his dog-men; we can't take on all of them, we need to leave or we'll be overrun...or at least reevaluate our game plan, we are too out in the open."
OOC:
Dash action to get inbetween Kalis and Maenor so I don't need to shout then using the rest of my movement to make my way back.
Feb 16, 2018 8:03 pm
Maenor re-engages the lamia, who turns around to face the cleric. With a now-audible snarl, it lashes out to try and swat the elf away. Maenor manages to deflect the large claw with his shield, but the effort taxes him enough that he cannot avoid the lamia's hand (18 vs AC 17, no damage). The strike is less of a slap and more like a gentle clasp upon Maenor's shoulder, but the effect is decidedly felt. Maenor has a chill pass through his body. It is less like temperature and more like an unsettled feeling that distracts and addles his mind.

Kalis and Maenor can see an unoccupied room beyond the lamia, full of empty bedrolls and several crates of personal effects and lamps. They also see a moment of realization cross the lamia's face, most likely aware that the arcane silence is no longer there.
OOC:
Maenor is cursed! You have disadvantage on all ability checks and Wisdom saving throws.

Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Feb 20, 2018 8:40 pm
Not wanting to accidentally hit Maenor, Kalis turns to a spell that's a bit more accurate and three bolts of magical energy dart out from his hand to assail their foe.
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Magic Missile - (3d4+3)

(244) + 3 = 13

Feb 23, 2018 3:58 pm
The missiles unerringly strike the lamia, who looks like he's on his last leonid legs.
OOC:
Kalis, your journey through the desert took a few days, and I don't recall you taking any damage or casting spells prior to this combat. You should be full up on HP and sorcery points, and have 3 1st-level spell slots remaining.
Feb 24, 2018 4:54 pm
OOC:
Yeah, I couldn't remember for sure, and I haven't had the time to scroll back through pages of posts (thought I had intended to before my next round. I'll go ahead and fix it up :)
Feb 25, 2018 2:33 am
No longer able to silence the creature magically, Maenor lunges forward with his sword, sinking it into the creature's side.
Last edited February 25, 2018 2:33 am

Rolls

longsword attack - (1d20+5)

(19) + 5 = 24

damage - (1d8+3)

(6) + 3 = 9

Feb 25, 2018 6:37 pm
Maenor's blade bites deep into the lamia's side, staining the stone floor with the monster's blood.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Coda
Feb 26, 2018 5:42 pm
Coda watches as his compatriots charge forward, he takes in a deep breath before letting out a sigh and doing the same. He stares at the lamia "I'd be running too, if I sucked as much as you!"
OOC:
Vicious MockeryWisdom DC 14

Rolls

Psychic damage on Failure. - (1d4)

(1) = 1

Feb 26, 2018 8:35 pm
Already heavily wounded, Coda's words sting the lamia (Wisdom save 6 vs DC 14, failure). He roars, partly out of frustration and mostly out of fear. He then looks down at Maenor and, accompanied by a flash of arcane light, says, "Save me."

In a louder voice, he roars, "SAVE ME!" and tries to bound out of Maenor's reach to head north into the large room.

Smoke begins to billow along the ceiling from the room to the east as the pillows and furniture go up in flames.
OOC:
The lamia casts Charm Person upon Maenor. Maenor must make a DC 13 Wisdom save on a straight d20 roll, because the disadvantage from the curse negates the advantage from being an elf and being in combat.

If Maenor succeeds on the saving throw, he may make an Opportunity Attack.

Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Map
Feb 27, 2018 12:44 am
Maenor's eyes widen as the lamia's words reach him, but he shakes his head slowly and responds, "I think not," as he lashes out with his blade.

As the creature tries to flee, he doggedly follows and attacks again.
Last edited February 27, 2018 12:47 am

Rolls

wisdom save - (1d20+6)

(17) + 6 = 23

longsword attack - (1d20+5)

(16) + 5 = 21

damage - (1d8+3)

(4) + 3 = 7

longsword attack - (1d20+5)

(10) + 5 = 15

damage - (1d8+3)

(4) + 3 = 7

Feb 27, 2018 12:50 am
OOC:
Do we know the nature of the supplies we were to escort, which are presumably somewhere in this warren?
Feb 27, 2018 12:57 am
OOC:
You were only told that a wagon of supplies was earmarked for the Pale. Unfortunately, Rhiann didn't tell you what specifically was being transported.
The lamia snarls, desperately trying to get away. "No!" he manages to squeal as Maenor's blade nearly severs his back leg, and he falls in a heap. He barely brings his face up in time to see the elf descending like the angel of death itself.
OOC:
Go ahead and describe your finishing blow!
Feb 27, 2018 10:02 am
Maenor plunges his sword into the creature's chest, bisecting its heart. He holds it there while the light dies from its face, then pulls it free and turns briskly to his comrades and says, "The fire, quickly! We must put it out before it spreads."
Feb 27, 2018 4:10 pm
Even as he speaks, Maenor sees movement out of the corner of his eye. Down the eastern hallway, the cleric can see the bodies of several jackalweres standing up. Roused by the lamia's roar, they seem aware that there was battle, and bark and yip excitedly as if to warn others.

However, the two creatures closest to Maenor stare silently at the crumpled corpse of the lamia. Having witnessed the fatal blow, they look to Maenor and the bloody blade and seem hesitant to make any move.
OOC:
Still in "combat" rounds, so Coda and Kalis have turns. The jackalweres have not taken actions yet.
Mar 7, 2018 12:59 am
OOC:
Maenor, go ahead and post any actions or movement you'd like to perform. The map shows where the jackalweres are, who are in the process of standing.
Mar 7, 2018 2:30 am
Kalis moves forward to join Maenor
Last edited March 7, 2018 2:30 am
Mar 7, 2018 10:24 am
Maenor straightens and flicks his blade clean. He stares at the two jackalweres intently as he calls out to their comrades, "Your master is dead. Do not oppose us, or you will meet his fate. Leave now, and no more need die today."
Mar 7, 2018 3:45 pm
The nearest jackalwere snarls, baring its teeth. It looks as Kalis joins Maenor. "You. Let us go?" it barks. The other jackalweres approach from the far chambers, some with scimitars drawn.
Mar 8, 2018 12:36 am
Maenor frowns in confusion and replies, "That's what I said."

He turns to Kalis, "That is what I said, is it not? I tried to use smaller words, like you taught me."
Last edited March 8, 2018 12:36 am
Mar 9, 2018 4:39 am
Kalis nods, "That's what you said alright," then turns to the monsters, pointing at the one that spoke, "Go and live. Stay and die. Choose now!"

As he points toward the one that spoke, sparks fly from his fingers for emphasis.

Rolls

Intimidate - (1d20+3)

(9) + 3 = 12

Mar 9, 2018 3:51 pm
The first jackalwere flinches as the sparks crack, and the second takes a step back.

A third jackalwere approaches from the far room. "They are two. We are six. We kill, eat." This seems to bolster the creatures, but not enough to actively step closer to you.
Mar 9, 2018 8:11 pm
Coda steps beside Maenor and Kalis "Three. And us three just slayed a beast much larger than you, much fiercer than you, much more clever than you. Numbers cease to be advantageous through underestimating. We don't want to fight, we only came for items that were stolen from us. You don't want to fight, you only want food. We have common ground—my friend speaks the truth—no more blood needs to be shed today. You want food, I see an already prepared feast, no hunting required, no risk of death involved. We give you that in exchange for our items back."
Mar 9, 2018 9:19 pm
"And think, mutts," comes another voice, as the cook you've met previously makes an appearance at the far end of the rooms, "all those men out on patrol now are free from The Master's grip. Maybe they're coming back, and do you think they'll be happy?"

The jackalweres looks to each other, mutterings and growls indicating a rough conversation. Finally, one of the jackalweres turns back to you and yips, "We go. You no follow, no kill." The humanoid canids step carefully past you, keeping their distance, as they make their way into the larger chamber and down the west tunnel.

When the last jackalwere has left, the man leans against the wall and clutches his head, evidently suffering some kind of headache. The smoke that fills the rooms leaves a haze, but the air is not suffocating. A quick glance into the once-luxuriant chamber shows that most of the fabric has burned away, leaving little fuel for the fire to spread.
OOC:
The jackalweres exited through the arrows (C-11) on the map.
Mar 10, 2018 4:47 am
Coda turns and smiles at the man "Welcome back to the land of the free-willed. Do you recall anything or is it sort of a blank void? Don't overexert yourself though, if you need a moment, by all means, take it."
Mar 12, 2018 2:37 am
Kalis sighs in relief; he hadn't been looking forward to more fighting. More than willing to let Coda handle the cook, he leans against a wall and closes his eyes for a moment to relax.
Mar 12, 2018 9:49 am
Maenor likewise withdraws from the conversation, murmuring quietly as he presses a hand on his wound.

Rolls

Cure wounds - (1d8+6)

(3) + 6 = 9

Mar 12, 2018 8:06 pm
The man shakes his head, either in response to Coda's question or to clear mental cobwebs. "I remember fine," he says. "Thank you. That monster had me enthralled to serve him and his minions in the kitchen. I was forced to prepare non-poisonous food at specific times, or I would suffer intense pain.

"There were others with me, and some that have been here before. What I said was true; those men went out into the desert to patrol the monster's territory, or to scout for caravans to raid. I don't know if they're actually coming back, though."


The man coughs, waving away some of the smoke that wafts through the room. "I'm not much of a warrior. I drove wagons for a caravan. I thought the beast would eat me, but I was fortunate it saw other uses for me."
Mar 12, 2018 11:25 pm
"You're very lucky indeed," agrees Kalis, "What do you plan to do now?"
Mar 13, 2018 12:36 am
"I guess I'll see if there's any horses or anything," says the man. "Otherwise I'll have to walk back to Frysor."
Mar 13, 2018 5:03 am
"You drove wagons for a caravan...any wicker baskets for sale?" Coda stares at the man intently.
Mar 13, 2018 7:11 am
The man blinks. "What? No. I only drive, I don't sell. Master Sinik would have been responsible for that, but he died in the attack. I don't remember loading any baskets, though."
Mar 13, 2018 9:11 am
Coda scratches his head, a bit confused "Do you know where they kept the things they stole from the caravans?" He turns towards his group "Do we even know what we are looking for?"
Mar 13, 2018 4:22 pm
"Yes, I was forced to cart everything along with the guards," says the man. "I can show you." He proceeds to walk you through the different rooms and pointing out their contents.

The barracks contain a variety of clothing and blankets ranging in quality from common to fine. There are also personal effects and small trinkets, though they seem of little value.

The armories have weapons of varying type and pieces of armor upon organized racks. All sorts of simple weapons can be found, including ranged weapons. Some martial weapons are present, but there are no polearms nor blowguns. The armor ranges from padded through splint, as well as shields.

The pantries contain food stores and kitchen sundries. Grains, salted meats, some vegetables, flour, and even seasonings.

The treasury doors are locked, but it is a simple task to retrieve the key from the body of the lamia. Inside you find a total of 2400 copper pieces, 800 silver, and 70 gold. There are also 7 gemstones valued at 50 gold pieces each, and six items of art valued around 25 gold per. You also find:
- A pair of fine gloves with thick padding around the fingertips and palm, and a stretch of fabric between each finger and thumb.
- A pair of crystal lenses set in a visor. The visor's bridge is shaped like a hawk's beak, while feathers extend past the temple through the ear hooks.
- A ring of rose gold set with a small ruby, that feels warm to the touch.
- A finely-crafted shortsword.

The man also tells you that the exit leads to a stable, where any horses and wagons would be kept.
OOC:
The map has been updated with room labels.
Mar 13, 2018 11:02 pm
OOC:
Is it the same door that leads outside, and hence where we might expect the enspelled men to return?
Mar 13, 2018 11:06 pm
OOC:
Yes, the arrows on the map lead to a large cavern that serves as a stable, and the exit to the outside world lies beyond that.
Mar 13, 2018 11:55 pm
Maenor nods respectfully at the cook, "You have been most helpful."

He turns to his comrades, "We should inspect the stables before choosing what to bring. This man and his fellows should also be given what they need to return to civilization."
Mar 14, 2018 12:05 am
Coda grabs five gold pieces and a gem "They can have the rest of my cut." He searches through the armory for studded armor that is of his stature and a shortbow along with the ammo. He also checks the status of the vegetables and grains.
Mar 14, 2018 12:20 am
Coda finds a studded leather jerkin that is sized for a large person, but it hangs upon the halfling like a coat and skirt. With a little cinch of a belt, it would service well. He is easily able to find a good shortbow and arrows.

The stables has two horses in makeshift rope pens. There are also two wagons that are road-worthy.
Mar 14, 2018 2:11 am
Kalis doesn't hear anything that's said after the treasure is revealed, focusing instead on inspecting and cataloging it all.
Mar 14, 2018 10:11 am
OOC:
Are they one-horse or two-horse wagons?
Mar 14, 2018 10:17 am
Maenor looks for a breastplate, warhammer, longbow and arrows in the armories while he ponders what they should bring with them to complete their mission. He bundles the magical items for later identification.
Mar 14, 2018 4:50 pm
Maenor finds the items he desires, and works with Kalis to inventory the treasure.

He wisely sees that the wagons are meant for two horses each, but reasons that with some work and carpentry, they might be able to be converted for one horse.
Mar 15, 2018 12:05 am
Maenor holds his chin as he ponders. He suggests, "Two horses to pull one wagon, I think. Best to not overtax them, and to be thrifty in our choices. I would recommend first loading food, then clothes, weapons, and armor as space and weight allow."
OOC:
Forgot he doesn't have proficiency in martial weapons, so scratch the warhammer.
Mar 15, 2018 2:42 pm
"I agree we should load food first but should we wait here for a minute? We don't know what we are after, perhaps we can wait for a Sending from Rhiann. Besides that I think we're kind of at a loss..." Coda turns to the man, as if a light turned on "You wouldn't of happened to know a Dwiz Valeft, would you?"
Mar 15, 2018 5:08 pm
The man shakes his head. "Sorry, I only drive."
OOC:
Anyone can make an Intelligence check.
Mar 15, 2018 5:09 pm
OOC:
Int check!

Rolls

Int Check - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Mar 15, 2018 5:13 pm
CancerMan sent a note to Naatkinson
Mar 15, 2018 5:52 pm
Kalis thinks for a moment, "Well, Rhiann said to use our best judgment out here, so I say we deliver what we've found to our contact. Even if they're not the exact supplies they were expecting, this pretty much covers the gamut of whatever they might need out there and its certainly better than nothing!"
Mar 19, 2018 6:48 pm
The man gathers a few supplies for himself, preparing to make his journey back home on foot. He pauses before he leaves, and turns back to you. "I don't know if it was fate or luck that brought you here, but thank you. My name is Darren. Darren Kadyrov. If you're ever at Frysor Stronghold and you need help, I'll do all that I can."

As the smoke begins to clear, Maribel is led into your presence by the white-haired goblin. "Ah," it says, visibly relaxed. "I saw the dog-men running into the desert. And here you live. No doubt you were successful?"
Mar 20, 2018 12:29 am
Coda walks up to Maribel and begins to pet her "Successful in one venture—utterly lost on our other—but yes, we slayed whatever seemed to control this place."
Mar 20, 2018 1:20 am
Kalis nods, "Thankfully, yes," he agrees, "Fortunately, we were able to scare away the jackals before we got into another fight!"
Mar 20, 2018 9:27 am
Maenor explains, "The creatures were being controlled by another, a lion-man with great powers of the mind. We have slain this leader, and so his followers are scattered or freed. Once we have taken what you need, you are welcome to the lair and its contents, though I cannot guarantee the dogmen won't return once their fear has diminished."
Mar 20, 2018 5:30 pm
The white-haired goblin shakes its head. "This is no place for my people. Another may come and lay claim to this lair, but we'll have some time before that happens. I thank you for destroying the dog-men's master. With its power broken, my people will be safe.

"You have risked your own lives for this, and while you have your own goals, you did help us. I offer an invitation for you to come to our village. My people should know their saviors, and you will find safe lodging. What do you say?"
Mar 20, 2018 7:37 pm
"Kind of hard to decline safe lodging. We take rest there and leave in the morning?"
Mar 20, 2018 7:47 pm
"If you wish," says the white-haired goblin. "It will be a day or two until we reach the village, and again we'll be traveling across the desert. Of course, I don't think you have want for provisions this time."
Mar 20, 2018 8:13 pm
"Oh," Coda hesitates "I was under the impression it was closer. We may have to go over our rations to see if we have enough for an extra two day trek through the desert and still be able to make it back." He turns to Kalis and Maenor and awaits there input.
Mar 20, 2018 11:43 pm
Maenor somberly replies, "I believe we should take this opportunity to cement our friendship. In these troubled times, trustworthy allies are hard to find."

He suddenly grins as an idea strikes him and adds, "And we can teach them the five high!"
Mar 22, 2018 6:58 pm
The white-haired goblin says, "My people would not last if we lived so close to our enemy." It then points to the pantry. "If you're concerned about supplies, why not take from the dog-men?"
Mar 22, 2018 7:25 pm
Sounds like a good idea to me," Kalis says, moving over to the pantry and selecting supplies that are good for the road and beginning to load them on the cart.
Mar 27, 2018 9:01 pm
You pile a number of supplies onto one of the large wagons, clearing out the pantries and half the armories of stock. You understand that you could fit more goods into the wagon if you sacrifice passenger space, and Maribel is also there to accommodate some of the load. The white-haired goblin waits patiently while you work, his frail-looking frame assisting with loading supplies as needed when provided direction.
OOC:
Anything else you'd like to do in this place? Otherwise we'll move on!
Mar 27, 2018 11:32 pm
OOC:
Let's roll out!
Mar 28, 2018 6:48 am
OOC:
Ready to rock!
Mar 28, 2018 9:31 pm
With a laden wagon hitched to a pair of horses, you set off into the desert. The white-haired goblin is on foot as it leads the way, navigating a circuitous route that makes it easier for vehicle travel. You weave through low valleys and around the crests of arid hills of scrub brush. Weather, combined with ancient tectonic movement and dried-up rivers, carve a rugged terrain marked with cacti and Joshua trees.

The desert becomes a bit more difficult to travel now as pathways tumble into rocky canyons, and at times you are forced to backtrack as the wagon threatens to become stuck in the narrow passages, or fall off the sharp cliffs. Finding new means takes more time than anticipated.

"I apologize for the delays," says the white-haired goblin. "We do not usually bring large things like this with us. As it is nearing dusk, I suggest we camp for the evening and continue in the morning. We are perhaps a third of the way."
OOC:
In case anyone was wondering, The Trackless Barren is similar to parts of the Southwestern United States, like the Mojave Desert, Death Valley, and Anza-Borrego National Parks.
Apr 2, 2018 5:28 pm
OOC:
If you are going to camp for the night, I'll need Perception checks for those who are taking first, second, third, or fourth watch. The goblin offers to take one of the watches.

If you'd like to press on through the night, just say so.
Apr 2, 2018 6:34 pm
Coda nods in understanding "Camping would be nice, rest our eyes and muscles a bit."
OOC:
I'll take first or fourth watch if the rest agree with camping.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+5)

(12) + 5 = 17

Apr 3, 2018 9:21 am
"Yes. At this point in our journey, there is no hurry. Better to be rested. I shall take the final watch."
OOC:
By which he means the final two, as he only needs to trance for half the night.

Rolls

Perception rolls - (1d20+6, 1d20+6)

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

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

Apr 3, 2018 1:07 pm
"Looks like that leaves second watch for me," Kalis says, helping get camp set and then laying down to sleep.
OOC:
Kalis will take the second watch, then!
Last edited April 3, 2018 1:07 pm

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(15) + 4 = 19

Apr 4, 2018 12:48 am
The white-haired goblin offers to assist the last watch and settles into a curled position upon the bare ground.

Your campsite in the lee of a cliff provides enough shelter, and the glow of your fire warms the night air. The evening is buzzing with the sound of insects, but the ambiance is all that intrudes upon your rest.

You rise with the morning, the temperature plummeting briefly into chill before the sun breaks the horizon. Taking sustenance as you can, you set off once again and navigate your way across the desert.

Luck seems to be with you this day and you make excellent time despite the constant switchbacks through desert canyons. As the sun begins to fall on the second day of travel, your goblin guide tells you that you are not that far from the village. You still have several hours of walking ahead of you, but if you choose to skip camp and press, you would reach your destination around midnight.

The choice is yours.
Apr 4, 2018 9:14 am
OOC:
I vote for rest and arrive during the day.
Apr 4, 2018 1:05 pm
OOC:
Kalis can't see in the dark, so I also vote for a rest first
Apr 4, 2018 3:16 pm
OOC:
Same boat as Kalis, my vote is on rest as well.
Apr 4, 2018 11:24 pm
You choose to make camp and select a suitable spot against a rocky overhang. Rations are had, bedrolls are lain, and sleep is sound as Coda starts the first watch.

It is during the transition as Coda wakes Kalis for the second watch that both notice an odd smell, like a mixture of bile and rotten decay. It is not overpowering, but it is very distinct, as if someone's mess kit hasn't been washed in decades.

A small voice can be heard now, faint with distance. "Help! Please!" it cries.
Apr 5, 2018 8:24 pm
Kalis freezes for a moment at the sound of the voice, but then scrambles to wake his sleeping companions, "Wake up, there's someone out there!" he whispers.
Apr 6, 2018 5:31 am
As the white-haired goblin wakens, the voice is heard again. "Help! Please!"

Hearing the words a second time, it sounds like a young woman.
Apr 6, 2018 9:35 am
Noticing the smell, Maenor is cautious as he attempts to think of any creature that lures its victims in such a manner. He picks up a rock which begins glowing brightly after a short prayer.
OOC:
Casting Light.

Rolls

Nature - (1d20+3)

(19) + 3 = 22

Apr 6, 2018 4:13 pm
CancerMan sent a note to marithyme
Apr 6, 2018 11:37 pm
Maenor warns, "Beware, I have read of creatures that mimic the innocent to entrap the heroic. 'Tis more likely than a maiden, wandered so deep into the desert, only now calling for help. If it is the creature I think of, it will not likely be alone."
Apr 9, 2018 5:43 pm
There is no movement beyond the flickering light of your campfire, though that distinctly sickening smell is still present.
OOC:
How do you proceed?
Apr 10, 2018 9:34 am
"I would advise we circle the fire, facing outward. Let the creatures face us here, in the light. Going into the dark sightless would be folly."
Apr 10, 2018 1:01 pm
Kalis nods, "I agree," he says, "Let us prepare for battle." His voice sounds more confident and steady now than it did when you first set out; it seems that he no longer fears battle as he once did.
Apr 10, 2018 6:28 pm
There is silence now, and the white-haired goblin grips its walking stick and looks outward into the dark.

Then the voice sounds again, this time in a pained scream, loud and from deep within her heart.
Apr 10, 2018 7:45 pm
"Are... are you sure that it's a vile creature out there?" Kalis asks, unnerved, "It sounds pretty convincing..."
Apr 10, 2018 11:38 pm
Maenor blinks in surprise and responds, "One can be sure of very little. It is my best supposition, no more."
Apr 13, 2018 9:11 pm
Silence follows. Nothing seems to move, including yourselves, for what seems like an eternity.

Finally, the tension breaks with a rising yelp, high-pitched and repetitive. What sounds like nasally barks and yowls mix with throaty grunts in calls from one side, and animalistic cackling answers from the other. You also hear the heavy footfalls of a rapid charge in your direction coming from different angles.

The smell hits you before you see anything, a cloying stench of rotten meat and unwashed fur. Then a hunched humanoid figure bursts into the light, dog-headed with slavering jaws full of sharp teeth. A gnoll! It wields a spear in both hands as it charges toward you, yapping enthusiastically.

Another gnoll charges in from the flank, spear leveled like a lance. Movement shimmers at the outskirts of the light, indicative of more figures beyond.
OOC:
You have initiative and can act, in any order.

Don't forget that you've been traveling for at least a couple of days already, and have had the benefits of long rests. Your spells and abilities should have all reset.
Apr 14, 2018 12:24 am
Coda's skin drains of color and he clutches his stomach "What...I...I think those cries were real..." he mumbles before he begins to babble.
OOC:
Casting Dissonant Whispers (2nd lvl) at the first gnoll. Wisdom save, DC 14. X damage and reaction to move as far away from me on fail, half damage and no move on success.

Rolls

X= - (4d6)

(5552) = 17

Apr 14, 2018 2:40 am
The gnoll cackles as Coda's words wash through its tufted ears, but soon it begins to shake its head, as if trying to ward away an incessant fly. It becomes bothered so much by the sensation that it yelps loudly in pain, backing away and disappearing into the darkness.

Rolls

Wisdom Save - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Apr 16, 2018 9:47 am
Maenor reaches up and firelight coalesces in his hand into a brilliant white spear, which he throws forward toward the closest gnoll. He then steps forward, draws his sword, and prepares to strike the next enemy that comes within reach.
[ +- ] Spiritual Weapon

Rolls

spear attack - (1d20+6)

(17) + 6 = 23

spear damage (radiant) - (1d8+4)

(6) + 4 = 10

Apr 16, 2018 3:33 pm
Kalis holds his wand forth and a burst of flame comes from the tip, splitting into two bolt of fire, each streaking towards different gnolls.
[ +- ] Combat Stats
OOC:
Using Twinned Spell to shoot two firebolts at the gnolls

Rolls

Firebolt 1 - (1d20+6, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (3) = 3

Firebolt 2 - (1d20+6, 1d10)

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

1d10 : (2) = 2

Apr 16, 2018 9:19 pm
The white-haired goblin grips its staff as it turns to face the approaching gnoll. It whispers something in a language none of you understand, but the effects are immediately felt as some energy seems to bolster your spirit. It then slips behind the campfire and seems to disappear amidst the flickering flames and jumble of bedrolls.

Maenor's glowing spear flies out and plants itself into the second gnoll, and Kalis' blast of fire knocks it backward. It growls, wounded heavily, but still in the fight.

A second fiery bolt streaks out from Kalis' wand and strikes the other gnoll in the back just before it disappears beyond the firelight, drawing another yelp of pain.

The gnoll still within the camp levels its spear and charges at Maenor, thrusting forward with both hands. The attack slips around Maenor's shield and stabs into the elf's body (19 vs AC 18, 6 piercing damage).

Suddenly, there are more barks as arrows fly into the camp. One lands right between Kalis' legs and thuds harmlessly into the ground (Advantaged 16 vs AC 17), but the other finds an opening in Coda's armor (Advantaged 18 vs AC 15, 7 piercing damage).

A keening howl is heard, and a large monstrosity leaps into the light. This creature seems to have the head of a badger spliced onto a hyena's body with the legs of a deer. A nauseating stench follows its arrival, whether it exudes from its horrible body or wafts out from a drooling maw filled with bony ridges is unclear, but it is a foulness of death.
CancerMan sent a note to marithyme
OOC:
Coda, Kalis, and Maenor can add 1d4 to any Attack roll or Saving Throw. You've been blessed!

Maenor, go ahead and roll your Readied Attack at Gnoll #2 as it has entered your attack range.

Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Apr 17, 2018 9:28 am
Maenor's sword darts out toward his foe, skewering it through the heart.
Last edited April 17, 2018 9:29 am

Rolls

attack - (1d20+5, 1d4)

1d20+5 : (15) + 5 = 20

1d4 : (1) = 1

damage from sword - (1d8+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

Apr 17, 2018 9:35 am
He turns his attention to the larger creature, sending the spear of light toward it and calling out, "Non poteris videre!"
[ +- ] Blindness DC 14

Rolls

spear attack - (1d20+6, 1d4)

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

1d4 : (3) = 3

spear damage (radiant) - (1d8+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Apr 17, 2018 2:35 pm
Kalis sees the larger monster approaching and focuses his magical energies, sending out three rays of white-hot flame from his wand.

Attack 1: 20 to hit, 4 damage
Attack 2: 9 to hit, 9 damage
Attack 3: 29 to hit, 8 damage
[ +- ] Scorching Ray
[ +- ] Combat Stats
Last edited April 17, 2018 2:36 pm

Rolls

Ray 1 w/ bless - (1d20+6, 1d4, 2d6)

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

1d4 : (4) = 4

2d6 : (22) = 4

Ray 2 w/ bless - (1d20+6, 1d4, 2d6)

1d20+6 : (1) + 6 = 7

1d4 : (2) = 2

2d6 : (36) = 9

Ray 3 w/ bless - (1d20+6, 1d4, 2d6)

1d20+6 : (19) + 6 = 25

1d4 : (4) = 4

2d6 : (62) = 8

Apr 17, 2018 4:17 pm
The gnoll cackles as it thinks its spear has skewered the elf, but in the pause of action it sees that it has merely poked through a portion of Maenor's shirt. The glint of firelight reflects off of Maenor's own blade, and the gnoll traces its outline back to its own chest. The realization of a direct and fatal strike takes hold, and as the life fades from its eyes, the gnoll falls backward.

The large monster is immediately assaulted by a flurry of glowing attacks, the brightest of which flash before its eyes. With a snarl, it whips its head from side to side as though to shake off the effects, to seemingly no avail.
OOC:
Maenor did not take any damage, as the Reaction would have been before the Gnoll attacked.

Large Monster is blinded. Attacks against it have advantage!

Actions left to take:
Coda

Rolls

CON save - (1d20+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Apr 20, 2018 6:37 pm
OOC:
I'll act for Coda.
Coda taunts the large monster and says, "Did you wake up like that, or are you always confused on which side is supposed to face the privy?" Seemingly satisfied with his mockery of the hideous creature, Coda turns to Kalis and sings, "This! Dude can throw fiyaahhhhh!"

In the chaos of battle, you all catch a glimpse of the white-haired goblin slip out of the campsite and into the darkness.
OOC:
Kalis has Bardic Inspiration; 1d6 to any attack roll, ability check, or saving throw.

Rolls

VIcious Mockery Damage, WIS save DC 14 - (1d4, 1d20+1)

1d4 : (2) = 2

1d20+1 : (9) + 1 = 10

Apr 20, 2018 7:14 pm
The large monster, annoyed by the resistance of its prey and momentarily blinded, smells the air. With a snarl, it pounces towards Maenor. Despite knowing the general direction, its bony-plated jaw snaps upon nothing (disadvantaged 11 vs AC 18), and its hooves kick nothing but air (disadvantaged 12 vs AC 18). With another shake of its head, the monster seems to shrug off the effects of the bright light and its eyes refocus on the elf cleric.

Four arrows zip into the camp this time, originating from the darkness outside the camp. One thuds into the ground by Maenor (advantaged 16 vs AC 18), but a second hits him in the calf (advantaged 18 vs AC 18, 8 piercing, movement reduced by 10 feet).

Another arrow plunks into the dirt by Kalis' feet (advantaged 15 vs AC 17), but one pierces his thigh (advantaged 21 vs AC 17, 4 piercing, movement reduced by 10 feet).
OOC:
Player turn!

The large monster is no longer blinded.
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status

Rolls

CON save - (1d20+2)

(14) + 2 = 16

Apr 22, 2018 10:19 am
Seeing the fury of the attack, Maenor grasps his holy symbol and mutters a prayer. A shimmering blue dome appears around him. He then draws his sword and lunges at the monster, but still slightly off balance, misses widely.
[ +- ] Shield of Faith
Last edited April 22, 2018 10:19 am

Rolls

longsword attack - (1d20+5)

(2) + 5 = 7

Apr 22, 2018 1:38 pm
Kalis grunts in pain as the arrow slices into his leg and looks for the archers.
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Perception w/ disadvantage - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

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

1d20+4 : (15) + 4 = 19

Apr 23, 2018 6:29 pm
There is too much activity in his immediate surroundings, and the flickering campfire plays too many shadows in the periphery. Wherever Kalis thinks he spies movement, there is nothing.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Coda
Apr 23, 2018 7:15 pm
OOC:
Sorry; thanks for auto-piloting Coda.
Coda rushes in front of Maenor, focusing on the large monster eyeing him "You shall not harm! You will fear us!"
OOC:
Casting Dissonant Whispers. Wis. Save DC 14 or X psychic reaction to run away; half on save, no reaction.

Rolls

X= - (3d6)

(154) = 10

Apr 24, 2018 12:21 am
The monster doesn't seem to recognize the words that Coda speaks, but the arcane magic affects it just the same. It is not as great an effect that Coda would have hoped, unfortunately, and it growls.

From somewhere in the darkness, there is a screeching yipe, following by snarls and guttural barks.

Rolls

Wisdom Save - (1d20+1)

(14) + 1 = 15

Apr 24, 2018 12:45 am
The large monster leaps upon Maenor, snapping its jaws upon his already-wounded leg (22 vs AC 20, 8 piercing). It then bucks, bringing its front hooves up to try and kick at Maenor, but the cleric brings his shield up in time to ward the blow.

Surprisingly nimble for its size, the monster dances away to keep everyone in its sight.

More cackling hoots from the darkness. Only two arrows enter the camp this time, one smacking into the fire and sending sparks and smoke into the air. The second arrow lodges itself painfully into Coda's shin (16 vs AC 15, 10 piercing, movement reduced by 10 feet).

You hear another twang of a bow, but you see no arrows from this.
OOC:
Player turn!

Maenor, please make a Concentration check, DC 10
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Apr 24, 2018 1:03 am
Giving up on spotting the archers for a moment, Kalis launches another trio of flaming Ray's at the monstrous gnoll.
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Scorching Ray 1 w/ bless - (1d20+6, 1d4, 2d6)

1d20+6 : (1) + 6 = 7

1d4 : (2) = 2

2d6 : (24) = 6

Scorching Ray 2 w/ bless - (1d20+6, 1d4, 2d6)

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

1d4 : (3) = 3

2d6 : (65) = 11

Scorching Ray 3 w/ bless - (1d20+6, 1d4, 2d6)

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

1d4 : (4) = 4

2d6 : (55) = 10

Apr 24, 2018 2:17 am
Two of the fiery beams flare upon the monster's body, adding an acrid burning smell to its already horrible stench. Its legs seem weak from the onslaught.
Apr 24, 2018 4:53 am
Coda strums his lute sharply, off key, as the large monster begins to strike Maenor. "Do you always stink this bad or did your mother forget to wash you?"
OOC:
Reaction: Cutting words
Action: Vicious Mockery

Rolls

Cutting Words - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Vicious Mockery - (1d4)

(4) = 4

Apr 24, 2018 8:17 am
The constant insults seem to shake the monster, and its jaws snap upon empty air.
OOC:
Maenor takes no damage, and does not have to make a Concentration check. Well played!

Rolls

WIS save - (1d20+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Apr 24, 2018 9:13 am
OOC:
Thanks Coda!!
Maenor flicks his eyes to Coda for a moment and gives him a nod of thanks before lashing out with his sword. Simultaneously, the spear of lights stabs out at the creature.
OOC:
Holy useless rolls, batman.
Last edited April 24, 2018 9:14 am

Rolls

sword attack - (1d20+5)

(2) + 5 = 7

spear attack - (1d20+6)

(2) + 6 = 8

Apr 24, 2018 5:08 pm
The monster seems warier of Maenor this time, and dances out of the way of his attacks. Its massive head bleeds from nose and mouth, and it struggles to breathe. It studies Maenor for what seems like an eternity.

Two arrows fly into the camp, and one slams into Maenor's thigh (critical hit, 11 piercing damage, speed reduced by 10 feet).
[Hunter2 disengage, run 30 feet]

Seeing Maenor suffer a grievous wound, the large monster desperately tries to finish off the cleric. It bounds forward, biting furiously upon the elf (23 vs AC 20, 10 piercing damage). Maenor's shield prevents the hooves from finding purchase, but the monster shakes its head to rip and tear with the bony ridges in its maw.
OOC:
Not that it mattered with the last attack round, but you all still have the benefits of a Bless spell.

Also, I forgot to mention that speed reduction only lasts until the end of your next turn.

Maenor, I need two Concentration checks, DC 11 and DC 10.

Player turn!
[ +- ] Player Status
[ +- ] Enemy Status
Apr 24, 2018 11:55 pm
Maenor grits his teeth against the pain as he struggles to maintain focus. Sheathing his sword, he places a hand on his own chest and murmurs a prayer. Vibrant gold energy flows over his body, closing some of the wounds. He then gestures to bring the glowing spear winging toward the creature once again.
OOC:
Cure Wounds

Rolls

Concentration, bless - (1d20+2, 1d4, 1d20+2, 1d4)

1d20+2 : (20) + 2 = 22

1d4 : (1) = 1

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

1d4 : (4) = 4

cure wounds level 1 - (1d8+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

spear attack, bless - (1d20+6, 1d4)

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

1d4 : (1) = 1

Apr 25, 2018 12:37 am
Loathe to expend more magical energy, but knowing there's no other choice, Kalis sends out a trio of magic missiles at the largest gnoll.
[ +- ] Combat Stats

Rolls

Magic Missile - (3d4+3)

(442) + 3 = 13

Apr 25, 2018 12:50 am
Aware of the floating spear, the large monster leaps out of the way of the divine weapon's thrust. As it jumps, Kalis' arcane missiles strike unerringly upon its hideous form, blasting through its chest. The monster expires before its body thumps lifelessly to the ground.
OOC:
Actions left to take:
Coda
Apr 25, 2018 9:21 pm
"Quickly, to the trees! We're sitting ducks out here." Coda grasps the shin that was pierced and runs forward towards the trees, hoping to get some cover from the hidden archers. Regardless of reaching the trees or not, he drops down to the floor.
OOC:
Action: Dodge
Movement: Full (+prone)
Apr 25, 2018 11:10 pm
There is a harsh shriek from somewhere in the distance, followed by silence.

Then, from elsewhere comes a series of yipes and hooting barks. Silence again. The cackling cries resume, but now begin to fade into the night.

No more arrows fly into your camp.
OOC:
Combat over!
Apr 26, 2018 9:35 am
Maenor sits down heavily a moment to catch his breath then calls out, "Friend Coda, the creatures have fled. You may safely return."

He heaves himself to his feat and fetches a rock, over which he mutters until it begins to glow brightly. Handing the rock to Kalis he says, "I will go search for our guide, in case he is injured and unable to return to us. Please stay here and guard the wagon...the gnolls are cowardly but sneaky."

He sets off in a spiral search pattern from the campsite, looking for the elderly goblin and also the remains of any other of their attackers.
Last edited April 26, 2018 9:36 am
Apr 26, 2018 4:33 pm
Thanks to his darkvision, Maenor finds the body of a gnoll 90 feet from the camp. A longbow is broken into two pieces by its side, and viciously-barbed arrows lie scattered around. The gnoll is clad in leather armor with a large cowl, and a horn crafted from bone is at its belt.

As Maenor briefly inspects the body, the white-haired goblin walks into his field of vision from the distance, looking none the worse for wear. "You are hurt," it says, observing Maenor. "Is everyone else all right?"
Apr 27, 2018 2:16 am
Coda stands and makes his way back to the group "Should...should we attempt to find what was making those cries of help and final scream of anguish?"
Apr 27, 2018 9:15 am
Maenor stands and looks a the goblin with relief, a sensation he had never expected to feel toward that race. "We have all been injured, though none mortally, thank Angharradh," he replies. "And you?"
Apr 27, 2018 3:48 pm
The white-haired goblin says, "I am fine." It spares a glance at the gnoll's body and seems to sigh. "It worries me that these raiders are so close to the village. But for tonight, I think they will not bother us anymore. Not after your display of strength against them. Let us see to your companions."

The goblin begins to walk back to the campsite.

For those still near the fire, the smell of the corpses is just as bad as when they were alive. The large monster, in particular, is practically swimming in stench.
Apr 28, 2018 3:58 pm
Kalis covers his nose and bends down to look at his leg that was pierced by an arrow. As the adrenaline fades from his system, he feels the pain keenly and does what he can to wrap it.

Standing a bit straighter now, he keeps his nose plugged, "So the screams were real then?" he asks, feeling a crushing guilt overwhelming him.
Apr 28, 2018 5:31 pm
Maenor finds no other bodies outside of the camp.
Apr 28, 2018 11:12 pm
Maenor overhears Kalis' comment as he returns to camp and replies, "No, I think not. I found no other bodies, and this creature is a leucrotta." He gestures toward the foul, stinking corpse of the monster. "It is an excellent mimic," he continues, "and uses the cries of its former victims to lure new ones. We were the only ones in danger, fortunately. Though I do think the gnolls may bear further investigating, being so close to our guide's village."

Maenor moves to check over the horses and wagons.
Apr 29, 2018 3:05 am
"That certainly puts my thoughts to ease." Coda says as adrenaline wears thin and the smell hits him "So, loot then relocate downwind?"
Apr 30, 2018 6:08 pm
You settle the horses and ensure that nothing else is amiss. The gnoll carried a spear and shield, and while the gnoll archer's quiver is nearly full of barbed arrows, the longbow is unfortunately broken. Both gnolls held a total of 39 silver and 9 gold coins. A quick glance of the leucrotta shows that it had no pockets or pouches affixed to its body.

Relocating to a suitable spot away from the smell, you spend the rest of the night in peace.

The next day, rising a touch later than normal to account for your rest, you set off for the white-haired goblin's village. The sun is blisteringly hot today, distorting your vision as heat waves swirl from the baked earth. Thankfully your waterskins are full... though you don't recall ever stopping for resupply, and Maenor has not cast his Create Water spell since your journey into the desert.

Your guide navigates the terrain, finding a path for the wagon through the jagged rocks, deep-cut valleys, and rising hills of sedimentary rock pushed up into the sky. You travel down a dry riverbed to a fork, when the white-haired goblin takes the path that switches back upstream. Walking for another 30 minutes, you come to a bend and goblin points his staff ahead.

A large mesa looms above you, though it looks no different from the hundreds you've seen before. "Welcome to our home," says the goblin. "Come. Someone must have already seen our approach."

Its words ring true as you progress closer. A small figure climbs onto a rock, not a goblin, but a male halfling. He is dressed in billowy robes the color of clay, and a similarly-hued turban tops his head with cloth hanging down the back and sides. He uses a shortbow as a staff, and a thin stalk of dry desert grass is chewed between his teeth. "Mornin' gents," he says, mouth breaking into a smile. "You seem a bit lost."
May 1, 2018 12:28 am
OOC:
Is the goblin still with us?
May 1, 2018 5:16 am
Coda waves at the halfling's greeting "Hardly would say we are lost; we're esteemed guests of our new friend here. He is showing us his home."
May 1, 2018 7:14 am
The halfling cranes his neck to look you over. "Well, fancy that. The ol' geezer hisself, eh?" He looks up at the valley walls and gives a wave. "S'all right!"

Looking up, you see several figures in hidden alcoves above you, loosening their bows and removing bolts. All are concealed in rock-colored tarps patterned to blend into the cliff face. "Sorry 'bout that," says the halfling. "It's our turn on watch. Didn't want to disappoint the boss." With that, he hops off the rock and approaches your group.

The white-haired goblin says to you, "We get visitors, from time to time."
May 1, 2018 9:24 am
Maenor smiles as he begins to surmise what this 'village' really is. He looks down at the goblin with amusement, "Unwelcome ones, I imagine."
May 1, 2018 2:01 pm
"Out here, I can only imagine that's the case," Kalis agrees, thinking about the night before with a slight shiver.
May 1, 2018 5:27 pm
"Well, yes and no," says the white-haired goblin. As the halfling approaches, it says, "This is Matouk. He and his companions are friends, though we have not seen each other for many moons."

Matouk bows, touching a hand to his chest at the introduction. "Seems rare to find merchants with a full wagon all the way out here in the desert," he says, glancing between your party and the laden wagon. "Looking to do a bit of trade in a new market, I guess?" The halfling chuckles at his own joke.
May 2, 2018 9:21 am
Maenor quirks an eyebrow and asks the goblin, "I thought we were going to your village?"
May 2, 2018 4:20 pm
The white-haired goblin nods. "Yes. We have arrived. Welcome."

The halfling says, "If you were expectin' more of the little gobbos, they're probably preppin' for lunch." He sticks a thumb back toward the large mesa. "Now, since you're with the boss and don' need no guide, I'll just be goin' back t' me hidey-hole." Matouk bows again and heads into the brush.

"I'm not really anyone's boss," the white-haired goblin mutters, and walks ahead to lead you further up the path.
May 2, 2018 5:24 pm
Regardless of how odd it may be, Kalis is happy to be once again in a civilized area and follows happily behind.
May 2, 2018 10:29 pm
As does Maenor, looking curiously about him as they proceed.
May 4, 2018 6:58 pm
The white-haired goblin leads you further along the dry riverbed, and as you near the base of the unremarkable large mesa, it deviates towards some brush and the base of the cliff. "Leave the wagon here," it says, and almost appears to walk through the rocks.

Upon closer inspection, the rock wall is an optical illusion that masks a cave opening from casual observation. As though to add more camouflage, a heavy tarp colored the same as the earth hangs over the entrance, which you can see resettle once the goblin has gone through.

You enter into a narrow tunnel, tall enough to accommodate medium humanoids, but forcing you to walk single-file. It is dark, but a simple Light spell from Maenor allows you to follow the white-haired goblin. The tunnel hooks right and descends down stairs cut into the stone and buttressed with wooden planks, and spills into a small antechamber bare except for low benches along the walls.

Here, you find a lone figure seated on a bench across the room, flanking the open doorway to the area beyond. They are clad in robes that have seen weeks of travel, but an elegant cut and fine embroidery still speak, perhaps, of noble origin. The hood is up, and an expressionless bronze mask decorated with gold filigree stares at you.

The figure stands, and a wand is held in a gloved hand. "Hold!" says a male voice.
May 6, 2018 2:59 pm
Maenor stands still and cocks his head with curiosity.
May 7, 2018 10:02 am
"For what?" Coda calls back "Do you not see who we are with?"
May 7, 2018 1:04 pm
Kalis stops and holds his hands out to the side non-threateningly, waiting patiently to see what happens.
May 7, 2018 4:10 pm
The man falters, clearly not expecting Coda's rebuttal. "Uh, you're with a goblin," he answers, and pauses. "Then you should know the password!" he says, voice bolstered with renewed resolve.

The white-haired goblin says quietly, "I don't know who he is."
May 7, 2018 5:42 pm
Kalis looks slightly startled by the news that the goblin doesn't know the person, "Is the password... Password?"
May 7, 2018 6:51 pm
The wand is lowered. "What?!" says the man, almost incredulous. "It's not 'password,' how can it...? Is that really a thing?"

At this point, the white-haired goblin speaks, though it is in a language you don't understand. The man seems to, however, as he listens attentively.

Now the man bows, responding in the same language. He removes the mask and lowers his hood, revealing a half-elf with faint reddish blotches on his cheeks and neck. On further inspection, the blotches come from a pattern of red scales just under the skin.
May 7, 2018 7:58 pm
Kalis is taken aback by the sight of the scales. He unconsciously rubs his hand over the scales he has hidden under his robes and takes a step closer, trying to discern if they have the same 'condition'

Rolls

Random d20 roll if you need it - (1d20)

(12) = 12

May 7, 2018 8:03 pm
To Kalis, it does seem similar.

The man puts away the wand and speaks to everyone. Unfortunately for you, he speaks in Goblin.
May 11, 2018 5:57 am
Clearly silence was not the response this man was expecting. He coughs. "Um, sorry. I, uh, thought since you were... never mind. I apologize for the rough welcome. Please."

He steps aside, evidently allowing you clear passage into the room beyond.
May 11, 2018 9:23 am
"The curiosities abound," Maenor murmurs quietly to himself. He nods and proceeds past the figure.
May 11, 2018 3:47 pm
"No worries, it's all in the past," Kalis says, waving away the apology and coincidentally letting the sleeve of his robe droop down to reveal his scaly arms as he steps past the man.
May 11, 2018 11:08 pm
The man doesn't miss the gesture, his eyes staring at Kalis' arm. He says nothing, however, and you pass by without further conversation.

You are taken into a large area seemingly carved out of the rock. Mismatched wooden beams keep the walls and ceiling from caving in, and a hodge-podge of simple chairs and tables hammered and lashed together from scrap litter the floor. A few sleeping mats in one corner are just piles of hay covered in leather and animal fur. There are some tunnels leading out across the way.

On one end of the room is a fire pit, where several goblins muck about a large cooking pot. There seems to be an argument... at least as far as you can tell, not understanding the language. At that moment, one of them looks over at your arrival, and the conversation stops.

"Caraw-Chuwk!" the goblin cries, and it runs over to embrace the white-haired goblin. "Caraw-Chuwk!" It is joined by the other chefs, and soon more goblins scurry in from the tunnels as the words are repeated. The throng ends up pushing you away from the white-haired goblin as more and more of its kin come in greeting.

For the moment, it seems that no attention is given to you. Despite the crowd, you are left alone for the time being.
May 14, 2018 8:38 pm
Kalis turns to his companions, "I'm not really sure what to make of all of this..." he says quietly.
May 14, 2018 11:48 pm
Maenor agrees with a silent shake of his head. "I am most perplexed as well, my friend," he quietly replies.
May 15, 2018 4:16 pm
The crowd settles as the white-haired goblin motions for quiet. It speaks to those gathered, and gestures towards you. All eyes follow the sweep of the staff and stare in your direction, unblinking. The white-haired goblin speaks again, holding its arms out wide, then resumes a neutral stance. With a murmur, the crowd of goblins disperses, many walking into the tunnels they arrived from. The chefs return to the cooking pot, argument resolved or forgotten.

The white-haired goblin returns to you. "Come, let me show you where you can find rest." It heads over to a 4-foot-long heavy curtain across from the fire pit, parts it with its staff, and ducks through.

Following the goblin, you enter into a chamber with a low ceiling. Despite the height restriction for medium creatures, the room is spacious enough to give you some space. A small table is off to the side, with woven mats as seats. Larger mats are rolled up on the opposite side with enough room to lay out a few bedrolls. Several woven baskets of various size act as containers.

"No one else will use this room," says the white-haired goblin. "Food will be ready in a few minutes, if you are hungry. Otherwise, make yourselves at home.

"I must attend to my people, but should you need me, do not hesitate to ask. Before I go, is there anything else you need?"
May 16, 2018 12:17 am
OOC:
Is it fair to assume we would have exchanged names at some point on the journey?
May 16, 2018 12:57 am
OOC:
In my head, the white-haired goblin never asked for your names, and no one ever asked for theirs. I do not recall anyone offering their name voluntarily. I didn't want to assume that any of you found that odd, didn't want to get too familiar, or just wanted to maintain some form of secrecy.

So... let's roll with no introductions.
May 16, 2018 9:19 am
"Seeing your people great you so fondly has reminded me, we have never made proper introductions, in the haste and discomfort of our journey. I am Maenor Holimion, and I humbly thank you. You have taught me a great deal in our short time together, and led us safely through the desert," he says, finishing with a bow.
May 16, 2018 6:39 pm
The white-haired goblin returns the bow. "You may call me Caraw-Chuwk. I sensed the nobility in your hearts and thus lent my assistance. You have proven your worth and justified my faith in you, far beyond my expectations."

For perhaps the first time that you can remember, Caraw-Chuwk smiles. "I think you will do great things. Should you find yourselves in need of shelter, you will always be welcome here.

"If you accept our hospitality, the young stranger in the other chamber is correct; we do have something of a password. It is needed if I am away so that my people and any of our guests know that you mean no harm.

"Of course, coming into our home requires you to maintain the secrecy of my people, and of this place. I do think you are all trustworthy, but... is this something you can agree to?"
May 16, 2018 6:46 pm
"Kalis Varimas," Kalis says with a bow, "I can certainly agree to keep your location a secret. No one ever needs to know that we were ever here."
May 16, 2018 11:38 pm
Maenor nods his agreement, "Of course."
May 17, 2018 5:21 pm
Caraw-Chuwk nods, almost as if it expected your answers and this is all a formality. "It is for the safety of us all," it says, smile never wavering. Goblin smiles tend to be rather unsettling, but it feels warm coming from this one. "Very well. You are now honored guests and I will tell my people to expect you, and to welcome you accordingly if I am not here. All you need to say when you arrive is that you are looking for Dwiz Valeft."

Caraw-Chuwk gives you a wink.
May 17, 2018 6:50 pm
"Dwiz Valeft," Kalis repeats under his breath, committing it to memory. Once he's got it remembered, he smiles at the goblin, "Thank you, Caraw-Chuwk, for your assistance and hospitality."
May 17, 2018 7:40 pm
Kalis experiences a feeling of déjà vu.
May 17, 2018 8:17 pm
Kalis remembers the instructions given to them by Rhiann. He looks to the others to see if they have the same sense of recognition.
OOC:
Right now, we are nowhere near the rendezvous point, correct? I'm assuming that he's just letting us know that he is also a part of our little rebellion?
May 17, 2018 8:20 pm
OOC:
The only rendezvous point you were given by Rhiann was where to meet up with the caravan. You needed to find the encampment on your own.
May 17, 2018 8:21 pm
OOC:
My misunderstanding, then! My speed-read of the post missed that :P
"Do you, by any chance, have any wicker baskets for sale?" Kalis asks.
Last edited May 17, 2018 8:22 pm
May 17, 2018 8:39 pm
"Yes, we do," says Caraw-Chuwk.
May 17, 2018 8:48 pm
"Well then, I would like one without cobras, please," Kalis replies.
May 17, 2018 10:46 pm
Caraw-Chuwk nods. "It is good to find a wary buyer," it says. "I will fetch your baskets. In the meantime, please rest. Eat, if you desire.

"I think the stew they are making has scorpion today,"
it adds, after a moment of reflection, and a casual shrug.
May 21, 2018 8:22 pm
After a while, a few goblins politely announce themselves outside your curtain, entering should you give them permission. It is a bit of an interesting exchange, since they do not speak Common, but nonetheless you manage to communicate enough to work things out.

The goblins place a few woven baskets in the center of the room and gesture to their contents, then take their leave. Inside the baskets are a variety of items.
OOC:
As a reward for sticking around so long, I'm giving you the magic items that were found by the other party. Story-wise, they brought them to this camp before they all retired. Split it up as desired, or sell them:
Cap of Water Breathing
Chain Shirt +1
Shortsword +1
Potion of Healing (1d4+4 HP)
Potion of Hill Giant Strength
250 silver
422 copper

You also found treasure from the lamia's lair:
Gloves of Swimming and Climbing
Shortsword +1
Eyes of the Eagle
Ring of Warmth

You also have equipment from Daniel, a Dagger +1
May 22, 2018 4:33 pm
Caraw-Chuwk arrives, accompanied by another person. "I have been in contact with Rhiann," it says. "She apologizes for not getting in touch while you were with me, but she is glad that you have completed your task. She expressed concern about your lack of numbers, and has asked that I find someone else to join your group. She has given her trust in my selection, and I hope you might place yours as well."

The white-haired goblin steps aside and nods to the other person.
OOC:
Gyges, please describe and introduce yourself. Welcome!
May 23, 2018 4:00 am
Taking his cue from the goblin, Gyges waves/salutes a little awkwardly. "Hello, my name is Gyges," says the man. He is, for the most part relatively average looking. Brown hair, brown eyes, average height and weight. The kind of person you'd pass on the street and not give a second glance to. "I know that, up until now you've had to take on some hardships, and that I'm new to your group, but I hope that you'll allow me to prove that I'm sincere in my desire to be here."
OOC:
Also, let me know if you want me to change my avatar. I was playing around with theimage search and thought I'd put something a little different up.
Last edited May 23, 2018 4:01 am
May 23, 2018 9:24 am
Maenor steps forward to clasp forearms saying, "Welcome to the group. I am Maenor Holimion, cleric of Angharradh."
May 23, 2018 12:56 pm
Kalis moves forward and shakes his hand, "Good to meet you. My name is Kalis Varimas, Librarian."
May 23, 2018 3:40 pm
Coda waves, followed by a bow "Coda Ostinato, music extraordinaire. If Rhiann has put her trust in Caraw-Chuwk and Caraw-Chuwk has put his trust in you, then I trust you to be sincere." The small man looks the newcomer up and down "What is it you do?"
May 23, 2018 4:07 pm
OOC:
For everyone's benefit, Gyges is a Half-Elf, Maenor is an Elf, Kalis is Human, and Coda is a Halfling.
May 24, 2018 2:30 am
"Professionally, I'm a librarian. I don't really have a speciality. I just make sure the place is organized, and that people can find what they want," Gyges says. "Are you also a librarian, Kalis? And a musician and a cleric in the group as well? I consider myself fortunate and look forward to learning from you all. I've never been much of adventurer, but I feel like maybe it's been a bit too easy to stay in my quiet corner. Surely I can do a bit more than organize parchments and books, but I guess you all came to this conclusion already, right?"
May 24, 2018 2:57 am
Kalis gets a look of excitement on his face, "Oh yes! I am indeed a librarian," he says happily, "They couldn't keep me from the library when I was a boy, so they figured they may as well put me to work since I was going to be there all the time anyway!"
May 25, 2018 3:24 am
"Indeed," says Gyges. "We have much to learn from each other." He pauses a moment, and then asks the group, "However, I must ask? What now? As I've only joined you, I'm not sure how we should proceed as a group, or myself individually. This is all so new to me."
May 25, 2018 5:55 am
As you all settle in, get to know each other, and wonder what to do next, lunch is announced. The stew is tasty (by goblin standards), and the warmth of the cooked meal is comforting. You notice that despite the desert environs, the temperature is cool within the cave network, and surrounded by allies you feel a sense of relaxation wash over you.

At night, there is little celebration, but many goblins gather in the larger chambers to converse and socialize. There does not appear to be a hierarchy save for the leadership of Caraw-Chuwk, who often addresses the goblins in the native tongue. You are generally left alone for the time being out of respect for your own customs, though no one actively ignores or shuns you.

When you have a moment, you ask for Caraw-Chuwk and relay your concerns for the future. "You should rest," they say. "You have all had a rough journey reaching here, so please take this opportunity to pursue your interests, and we shall try our best to accommodate you. I will send word to Rhiann to see if she already has something for you.

"If you wish, you are also welcome to assist my people in whatever means you feel capable. You have already seen how others contribute by keeping watch and scouting our surroundings. Of course, you are not required to do so, much less act as sentries. If you do wish to lend your assistance, but know not of how, well... you are all learned individuals. Perhaps you might lend your wisdom or expertise to help enlighten or educate some of us here?"
OOC:
So ends Episode 1.

You will have a bit of downtime in the safety of this camp. Is there anything you interested in accomplishing during your time here? Feel free to answer in the OOC thread, or brainstorm an idea and we can see if this primitive goblin settlement can meet your desires. Some suggestions for downtime activities can be found in an Unearthed Arcana article here.
May 25, 2018 4:42 pm
OOC:
There's also an updated Downtime section in Xanathar's Guide to Everything :)
May 25, 2018 5:21 pm
OOC:
Ah, excellent. I prefer to use that instead of UA, then, but no one should feel like you're restricted to Xanathar's. If there's something not listed that you're interested in doing, let me know.
Jun 15, 2018 9:12 pm
OOC:
I've returned from my vacation, and will be setting up the next episode over the weekend!

Thank you all for your patience!
Jun 15, 2018 11:34 pm
OOC:
Welcome back! Hope you had a good time.

Thread locked