Chapter Three: On the Road

Jul 27, 2017 1:22 am
You leave Greenest to the cheers of the folk, who wish you well on your journey but are sad to see you leave. The journey passes swiftly and you make good time, covering near to 200 miles in six days. From many miles out, you can see the lights shining from the city, which overlooks the River Chionthar.

As you approach the gates near to evening on the sixth day, you find that they are open, but with guards posted all about to ensure the safety of the people. As you near, the guards call out to you, "Hail, travelers! What brings you to our fair city?"
Jul 28, 2017 11:05 pm
Bughu stops his horse. "We have traveled from Greenrest, come on invitation from a friend. His name is Leosin, and he asked that we meet him here at Elturel."
Jul 29, 2017 1:51 am
The guard scratches his head, "Huh, never heard o' Leosin, but you're more than welcome to head on in," he says waving you on through.
Jul 29, 2017 3:06 am
Bughu nods, half-expecting the lack of recognition, and dismounts to lead his horse into the city. As he passes by the guard, he asks, "Where is the monastery here?" before adding, "and, where can we find stables for our horses?"
Jul 29, 2017 12:15 pm
Erich copies Bughu's motions, opting to stay quiet as they moved into the city. As they do so, he looks about, just generally getting a look and feel for the area.
Jul 31, 2017 12:45 am
"Monastery? There's no monastery here," the guards says, "But as far as stables go, you should be able to find a bunch of inns that can manage that for ya."
Quote:
If you can't find me there, seek out Ontharr Frume, a paladin of Torm there
As you mention Frume, the guard perks up, "Well, why didn't you ask earlier? He's usually at an inn called 'A Pair of Black Antlers," he says and gives you directions.

As you wander through Elturel, you can't help but notice how much different it is that Greenest. It's huge and lively, with not a worry about cultists, dragons, or danger of any kind. You make it to the inn that you were directed to, and, upon requesting Frume, are led to a back room of the inn.

After a few minutes of waiting outside, you are let in and you see Leosin standing beside a huge man with a bald head and bushy orange beard, who Bughu recognizes as Ontharr Frume. Frume smiles as he notices you enter and waves you over, "Ah, it's been too long, my friend!" he says happily, shaking Bughu's hand vigorously, "It seems that I was right, sending you to check out Greenest, eh? Sounds to me like you did some good there."

Leosin nods in agreement and smiles, "I'm very glad that you could make it so quickly. I, myself, just arrived a day ago."
Jul 31, 2017 4:50 pm
Bughu smiles. "It is good to see you again," he says. "I wish we could have done more for Greenrest, but they are safe for the time being. Leosin has already told you of dragon activity?"
Jul 31, 2017 7:21 pm
"Aye, that he has," Frume nods grimly, "But we can talk about that later. Today, we should take a well-deserved rest, boost morale, and then we can talk about dark times."
Jul 31, 2017 7:25 pm
Assuming that Leosin did not identify the others in the group, Bughu introduces them to Frume, vouching for their capabilities.
Aug 1, 2017 8:00 am
Mryio gives a nod when he is introduced, reciprocating any hand shakes offered to him, but otherwise stays relatively quiet.
Aug 4, 2017 1:05 am
Over the course of the day, you find that Frume is a very good host and shows you quite a good time. Several of his men challenge you to wrestling matches, games of chance, knife-throwing contests, and other friendly games. As dusk draws nearer, you are approached by on of Leosin's associates and each given a sack containing 150 pieces of gold.

Once night is fully upon you, Frume’s squire shows you to a private space off the tavern’s common room and closes the door when
he leaves. Waiting for you in the room are the broad-shouldered human paladin, the monk Leosin, and many pitchers of dark red wine. The paladin’s face wears a serious expression, unlike its usual open countenance.

"My friends, we have important business to discuss. At this point, you know almost as much about it as we do, and thanks to you, we know twice as much today as we did a tenday ago. Something rotten is afoot. We have no formal organization to oppose these rascals— not yet anyway. We’re working on that. And we need people like you, who know how and when to fight, and how and when to keep their heads down and observe. We can’t promise you anything except long days filled with danger and stress— but what could be better than that, eh?"
Aug 4, 2017 10:15 am
Mryio steps forward, the smell of booze heavily permeates from him, obvious that he chose to drink instead of partake in the 'celebrations'. He tosses the sack of gold he received earlier, onto the ground "With all due respect, Shir, this conversation should of happened when we arrived, if ish as important as you shay. My friend ish still a prisoner of that blashted cult and we're here, throwing a fuckin' party? That gold," He points at the sack "is a kick of dirt on her and this celebration," He throws his arms in a circle "is a shpit in her face. Why do we lull about when the enemy work towardsh their goal?"
Aug 4, 2017 12:58 pm
Erich has kept to himself through much of the merrymaking, instead watching how his fellows interacted during the time. It's been a long time since you've really been around groups Erich. Just, see what they're doing.

When Myrio drunkenly slurs his protestations at the party instead of immediately jumping back into the fight, he tries not to smile a little bit.
Aug 4, 2017 2:36 pm
Frume looks calmly at Mryio, "Being that you know nothing of what's going on outside of this room for preparation, I'll let your outburst go. While we 'partied', I had a group of spies out gathering information. The cult is actually headed this way now, bearing its ill-gotten goods. When they get here, they will join with a group merchants heading north; a common practice when heading into that dangerous territory. We are trying to get things arranged so that we can get someone - preferably yourselves, if you'd do it - set up as guards with the caravan to see where it is going."
Aug 4, 2017 5:14 pm
Bughu rolls his shoulder. He felt like he could throw knives at targets all night when the ale, cheers, and jeers kept flowing, but now that the tone has become less jovial, the ache of overuse has begun to creep in.

He remains silent while the Frume and Myrio chat. If Bughu had any reaction to the new information or the outburst, he chooses not to reveal them.
Aug 4, 2017 6:52 pm
"Let my ou... My outbursht ish jushtified. The only thing I know ish that thish cult ish more dangeroush than I firsht thought and that they have my friend. We could of been informed that you had shcoutsh out sho I know I'm not jusht shitting on my assh letting a childhood friend washte away in shome godforshaken cultisht chell."
Aug 4, 2017 10:24 pm
This is something between Frume and Myrio. Bughu does not interfere.
Aug 4, 2017 11:36 pm
A happy drunk, Jon is very discomfited by Myrio's anger. Of course you would make time for drink and sport between bouts of heroism, what better to give you the fuel and fire to risk your life and brave great challenges? He gulps down some wine and stuffs a breadroll in his mouth, unsure what to say, if anything.
Aug 4, 2017 11:47 pm
"I understand your anger, friend, I was merely hoping to give you a chance to let go of the bad for a day. A chance to enjoy yourself before thing get even worse and more dangerous.
Aug 5, 2017 6:01 am
"If you undershtan my anger, than you know I jush can't let go." With the mix of overwhelming emotions and heavy alcohol, Mryio stumbles down onto the floor "Shesh all I got left, thingsh ish already ash worsh ash they can get an I ain got no room to worry about danger."
Aug 9, 2017 2:15 am
"Take him and get him to bed," Frume says to one of the men standing outside the door, "He's in no state for this right now."

So long as Mryio doesn't resist, Frume continues, "So, what do you all think of what I'm proposing here?"
Aug 9, 2017 2:21 am
Bughu nods. "I will serve," he says. "What other tasks do we have, besides escorting the cult to their destination?"
Aug 9, 2017 3:14 am
Mryio waves the man off him "I can walk myshelf, don't need an eshcort." He turns and leaves the room, leaving the sack of gold on the floor.
Aug 11, 2017 3:02 am
"The primary mission is to find out where the goods are being shipped to. Any other information gathering is good, so long as it won't jeopardize the mission," Frume explains.

Leosin is strangely quiet, looking from the pouch of gold to where Mryio left. He sighs and shakes his head, clearly worried about the strange paladin.
Aug 11, 2017 5:35 am
"I will send word," says Bughu. "You will remain here to receive it?"
Aug 11, 2017 7:35 pm
"Yes, I think that will be for the best," Frume says, then turns to Leosin, "Are you headed back to give your report?"

Leosin nods, "Yes, I am long overdue already. I'll be leaving in the morning, unless you mind my staying here?"

Frume smiles, shakes his head, and claps Leosin on the back, "Stay as long as you want, my friend."
Aug 16, 2017 3:21 am
OOC:
Anything else for you before we move on?
Aug 16, 2017 3:53 pm
Bughu has nothing further to add, knowing that the arrangements with the merchant caravan are in the works and that the group will likely be summoned when it's time.
Aug 16, 2017 8:48 pm
OOC:
Nope, all good here. Mryio probably passed out before he could make it to his room.
Aug 17, 2017 2:31 am
The following morning you all wake up in private rooms at the inn. Mryio barely remembers passing out just outside the meeting room and being carried to bed. His sack of gold sits on top of a dresser off to the side of the room. You all find a note slipped under your door that the caravan will leave the next morning and to make the most of your last day in town before the two month trip to Waterdeep.
Aug 17, 2017 6:38 pm
OOC:
Getting an Explorer's Pack, extra rations, a whetstone, and a crowbar.
Bughu spends his morning at the market, looking for traveling gear and supplies. After lunch, he cleans and inspects his armor and weapons, sharpening his blade and arrows as needed.
Aug 22, 2017 12:01 am
Jon has a few meals, finds a private spot outside to do his "fighting exercises," and writes a few letters to family that he doesn't end up finishing or sending.
Aug 22, 2017 12:10 am
Erich spends the morning stretching, slowly, thinking on all of the events that led up to this point. Grandmother fought these dragons and won. Something with her sword gave me these scales. And now I'm here, having done work for one dragon and a dragon goddess is threatening humanity. This must all be connected. It must. The world is not so disconnected as to have this all be simple coincidence.

For much of the rest of the day, he spends his time experimenting with his magic, feeling it course through him and over him. Letting the bestial fury bubble up in his heart, clenching his eyes against the waking dreams of people falling before tremendous gouts of fire launched from his own hands.
Aug 22, 2017 12:24 am
Mryio spends most his morning,in bed, nursing his hangover. When it is mostly gone, he sits up and stares at the bag of gold with a grimace. He grabs the bag of gold then stops to read the note slid under the door, folding and pocketing it before seeking out Frume or Leosin.
Aug 22, 2017 12:46 am
Mryio exits his room and finds that Frume is sitting at a desk in the same room as the previous night. From the bags under his eyes, it appears that he hasn't yet slept, "Ah, Mryio, feeling better this morning?"
Aug 22, 2017 2:41 am
Mryio walks up and places the sack of gold on the table "Of body and mind, yes—of conscious, no; sleeping didn't change the fact that my friend is still a captive. There were other ways of portraying my thoughts and I chose the wrong way, making myself look foolish. While I apologize for my actions last night, I do ask for your forgiveness, I only ask for you to use this gold to help find the whereabouts of my friend, a half-elf female by the name Talis, then give me anything you find; whether it is a captive rescue or body retrieval."
Aug 22, 2017 2:52 am
Frume sets down the quill he's been writing with and runs his hand down his face, "Not to worry, ale will do that to a man. Seen it a thousand times before," he says, and then pushes the gold back, "The gold is from Leosin, and he'd want you to keep it. As for this Talis, we will get the word out and see what we can find on her. Any info you can give me would be of great help in finding her."
Aug 22, 2017 6:27 am
Mryio sighs "Stick by me and you'll see it a thousand more times." He reluctantly grabs the gold and throws it into his backpack.
OOC:
I know this was a predefined background choice so is there already a Talis or do I need to "create" her?
Aug 22, 2017 2:06 pm
OOC:
There is already a Talis in the game, so you don't have to worry.
I'll get you more info on her later
Aug 22, 2017 10:56 pm
Mryio looks down before looking at Frume again "Thank you." He gives all pertinent information about Talis that could help a search before making his leave.
Aug 23, 2017 4:32 am
With a nod, Frume assures you that he will have his men on the lookout for this Talis.

The next morning, you are given your assignment and show up at your assignment. You are to be traveling with a caravan of thirteen wagons, three of which belong to the cultists. You are set up to guard the rearmost wagon, so that you can keep an eye on the cultists.

You immediately notice that there are only six men with the cult wagons, three drivers and three guards/assistants. No one seems to even notice anything odd about their wagons, and you don't either. The leader of your wagons is a man named Achreny Ulyeltin, a man who is very short on manners, but appears to be friendly enough. His wagons are hauling furs and uncured hides for sale in the cold north.
Aug 23, 2017 4:50 am
Bughu tries to take note of the men with the cult wagons: their names, mannerisms, and sociability with others. He interrupts his observations of the men with a scout's eye of their surroundings, mindful of his role as a caravan guard.

He makes little talk with Ulyeltin, instead taking orders as necessary and paying more attention to the environment and his true quarry.
Aug 24, 2017 1:53 pm
The guards and drivers of the cult's wagons seem to be totally average; remarkably so, in fact. They get along with everyone in the caravan, but not well enough that people specifically seek to spend time at their wagons. They spend their time at night moving around the camp, making small talk. They never leave the wagons unguarded, though, with at least one person remaining with each wagon.

The trip to Baldur's Gate will take twelve days on foot. During the time, you make the acquaintance of several others in the caravan.

Beyd Sechepol is a male half-elf who is hauling a massive amount of ale and beer. He spends much of his time trying to sell it to the others in the caravan, with quite a bit of success. He is friendly, but doesn't care well for his wagon or his horses, drawing the ire of some of the other travelers.

Lasfelro the Silent is a male human who, from time to time, inexplicably breaks into merry songs and short stretches of joke-telling. His voice is a fine tenor and his jokes are hilarious. But these gregarious moods are always short. The rest of the time, he is silent as the grave, staring sullenly at the road ahead, barely moving on the seat of his wagon, seeming hardly to breathe. No one knows what he transports in his wagon, but it is guarded by a brooding gargoyle that is tethered to the wagon by a slim, silver chain.

Leda Widris is a female human guard for a wagon hauling fine silks. Widris is as honest and courageous as mercenaries come. She has spent many years in the south and now wants to see the snows and frozen seas of the far north and experience what a truly cold wind feels like.
Aug 24, 2017 5:31 pm
Bughu tries to remember if there is a temple dedicate to Torm at Baldur's Gate. They would be the ideal messengers to send word to Frume in Elturel.

Rolls

History - (1d20-1)

(3) - 1 = 2

Aug 24, 2017 6:03 pm
Bughu does know that there is a temple to Torm in Baldur's Gate.
Aug 25, 2017 2:38 am
During their travels, Mryio keeps within earshot of Ulyeltin, awaiting any orders he may have. During their stops, he makes small talk with the other caravan drivers, building up an appearance. After chatting with a different driver each stop, he finishes with the cult caravan, he waves down the driver "Hail, friend, names Mryio but my lads call me 'M'. Hows the weatha been treatin' ya? The reason for my visit to ya is to gatha a bit of knowledge, pahaps you've seen me around the otha drivas doin' the same. Well, me and my boys, we knows ya got to plan ahead for certain things; like the event of shiite hittin' the ceilin'. Me and my boys, we're good but no ones 'protect all the caravan' good. So's I'm goin' around and gaugin' value, see who's caravan is worth protectin' the most, if things go awry; so far my votes for the ale and beer."
Aug 25, 2017 1:58 pm
The driver smiles at Mryio, "Seems like you take your job serious. Good on ya! My vote's for the ale, too, for sure."
Aug 26, 2017 2:56 am
"Huh, sounds to me yer bein' punished. Ya transportin' buckets of shiite or ya just dislike your boss that much? Even silk lady over there voted for her own cargo."
Aug 26, 2017 2:58 am
"Nothing like that. Job's fine and so's the cargo. Just can't argue with good ale, you know?"
Aug 26, 2017 3:13 am
Bughu doesn't interfere with Myrio's influence, keeping his head down to work and maintain appearances.
Aug 26, 2017 4:01 am
"All too well, friend." Mryio gives a friendly chuckle "Alright, if things go wrong though, don't ya come cryin' ta me when I'm defendin' the ale and leavin' the rest of da cargo ta get raided."
Aug 29, 2017 1:37 pm
The trip to Baldur's Gate is relatively uneventful and you arrive on time, rolling through the gates just after noon on the twelfth day out.

"Be back early in two days or I'm leavin' without ye!" Ulyeltin informs you, "If ye need me, I'll be at the Drunken Huntsman, probably drunk out of my mind." he finishes with a laugh and walks off to get his wagon secured for the next two days while things are organized for the next leg of the journey.
OOC:
Anything you want to do in Baldur's Gate?
Aug 29, 2017 5:20 pm
OOC:
Sorry for the not posting thing. Stupid life whacking my head with the reality bat. :(
Erich keeps to himself, nearly the entire trip. Once in Baldur's Gate, he looks about for a tavern frequented by more of the woodsman/hunter type people. Those that are happy to drink alone and don't ask many questions.
Aug 29, 2017 5:50 pm
Bughu looks for the temple of Torm, hoping to have them deliver a message to Frume in Elturel. He writes of their stop in Baldur's Gate and the general description of the wagons.

The archer also tries to make sense of where the wagons are kept, and if they are kept together, who remains with the cultists' transport. He checks if cargo is ever unloaded, and if the cultists secure lodging elsewhere.

If asked, Bughu will elect to spend the night with his own wagon, unless its security is guaranteed.
Aug 31, 2017 2:00 pm
Bughu
It doesn't take long for Bughu to find the temple of Torm and get a message sent on its way to Frume. You find that the wagons are stored in a secured location and that the cultists stay with their wagons, at least one of them for each wagon. Three of them at a time leave to spend time in town.

Erich
You follow Ulyeltin to The Drunken Huntsman and find it to be exactly what you are looking for. You spend most of your time secluded and drinking silently.
Aug 31, 2017 4:59 pm
Bughu chooses to remain with his wagon while the others tend to business. He gives a nod in solidarity with the cultists, trying to lend the impression of another employee stuck with the night shift while the others have fun.
OOC:
What are we hauling?
Aug 31, 2017 5:03 pm
Naatkinson says:
His wagons are hauling furs and uncured hides for sale in the cold north.
Sep 1, 2017 3:35 pm
The cultists are civil to Bughu, even inviting him over to play dice with them shortly after dusk. The two days in town pass uneventfully and, on the morning of day two, you get together and head toward the wagons after your morning rituals. The caravan heads out early in the morning and you resume the dull work of caravan guards.

Six days out from Baldur's Gate, there is a disturbance at the front of the caravan. Mryio and Bughu can see that there is what looks like a stag up ahead, but its coat is a pure and shiny gold color. Some people are trying to grab bows and crossbows, while others are merely scrambling to get a look at it.
Sep 1, 2017 3:41 pm
Mryio begins forward, using the lasso pole as a walking stick of sorts, observing the oddity. If it doesn't run off or attack, he opens his senses to the world.
OOC:
Divine Sense; Range 60 feet.
Sep 1, 2017 3:47 pm
The stag seems to be watching the caravan members, but doesn't run. Mryio extends his senses out toward the stag, but doesn't sense anything wrong with it. it turns to face Mryio directly and he can see that it's not merely some dumb animal.
OOC:
Not celestial, undead, or a fiend
Sep 1, 2017 3:55 pm
Mryio stays his distance, not wanting to push his boundaries, and rubs his face while staring back at the stag. He stares for a moment trying to figure out the beast before calling out to it
[ +- ] Elvish
Sep 1, 2017 5:15 pm
"Oy, stay your strings and save your ammo," Bughu advises those with weapons drawn. Seeing that Mryio is addressing the stag, Bughu summons his military discipline and tells a few of the other guards, "Mind our flanks. Let's not get so distracted by the big shiny thing that we forget our charge."
Sep 1, 2017 6:14 pm
Signs and wonders! Jon thinks, getting himself to the best vantage point he can find for a good look at the stag. He tries to remember if he's heard of such a thing before, or what it might portend.

Rolls

Arcana, History, Insight, Religion - (1d20, 1d20, 1d20+1, 1d20)

1d20 : (7) = 7

1d20 : (18) = 18

1d20+1 : (11) + 1 = 12

1d20 : (9) = 9

Sep 5, 2017 1:25 pm
The other guards seem to be ignoring Bughu, though a few roll their eyes at him. Notably, the guards on the cult's wagons don't seem like they intend to leave their cargo behind.

Jon thinks hard, but isn't able to remember ever hearing of something like this.

Mryio speaks to the great creature, which tilts its head to the side as if listening. As it finishes listening, it takes a cautious step forward. Before it can do anything else, an arrow flies out from one of the wagons, slicing through the air and striking the stag right in the flank.

It rears back on its hind legs and slams down, sending small tremors through the ground. It spins and leaps away, disappearing into the forest. There is a trail of blood and a number of the guards jump down and begin to give chase.
Sep 5, 2017 4:31 pm
Bughu remains behind, wary of an ambush. He tries to split his attention between the surrounding area and what the cultists are doing.
Sep 7, 2017 11:41 am
Mryio takes off after the fleeing stag.
Sep 8, 2017 1:10 pm
Erich stands back, watching Myrio take off after the animal. Looking around, he opts to remain here, watching the cultists with a wary eye. His finger twitches near his focus, ready to bring it up at a moment's need.
Sep 8, 2017 2:21 pm
Mryio takes off after the others into the trees, following the trail of the stag. He finds himself following with two others after a couple of people gave up quickly. It turns out that one of them is an expert tracker and you make good time in following it. As you follow the trail, you hear an awful sort of scream from an animal ahead.

Rushing forward, you see that the stag's leg is broken, having been caught in a long-forgotten bear trap. It stares at the three of you and you can tell that it is afraid. The two others smile and get ready to kill it.
Back at the camp, the noise of the pursuit quickly disappears in the distance. The cultists stick with the wagon, using this time to make some small repairs to their wagon or play dice. They chat quietly among themselves about nothing of real importance. Knowing what they are, it almost feels like they're trying too hard to remain out of everyone's notice.
Sep 8, 2017 3:59 pm
"Cease your actions, this is not your common deer, it shows high intelligence and, even after being shot and trapped, shows no sign of being a threat. This is not hunting this is murder and, if you continue your course, I will treat you as such—murderers." Mryio continues his path towards the stag.
Sep 8, 2017 4:26 pm
Bughu sits in the wagon, his crossbow upon his lap. He waits for the others to return and the caravan to resume its march. Whenever he looks at the cultists to see what they're doing, Bughu makes it a point to look at the other wagons and out to their surroundings immediately afterward to give the impression that he's not attempting to single them out.
Sep 8, 2017 5:08 pm
As Mryio makes his way to the stag, he hears a sigh and a thump behind him. Turning around, he sees that the man who was the expert tracker is standing over the sleeping body of the other man. He holds a wand toward you, "No, the pelt is mine," he says with a sad smile, "I was hoping it wouldn't come to this, but..." he shrugs and...

Rolls

Mryio Init - (1d20+1)

(7) + 1 = 8

Enemy Init - (1d20+2)

(12) + 2 = 14

Sep 8, 2017 5:10 pm
Round One: Enemy
The man, who goes by the name of Devin, utters the command word for his wand and you feel a sudden lethargy wash over you. Your eyes begin to close, but you are barely able to keep your eyes open and shake off the drowsy feeling.

Devin gasps, "Damn!" he curses, and draws a rapier.
OOC:
Mryio turn!
Sep 8, 2017 5:25 pm
"You will get no pelt here, the only thing you'll find down this path is your embarrassment." Mryio readies his pole "I give you one more chance to leave on your own accord before I make you leave, bloodied and full of regret."
OOC:
Casting Bless on myself and the stag.
Last edited September 8, 2017 5:26 pm
Sep 8, 2017 5:55 pm
Round Two: Devin
Devin shakes his head, "Sorry, friend, that money is mine!" he says as he lunges forward. His blade scrapes along Mryio's arm as he stabs at him (Crit vs AC. Damage: 10). Mryio manages to barely avoid being impaled on the blade.
OOC:
Your turn!
Sep 8, 2017 6:10 pm
"Greed... Very well, your path is set." Mryio swings the pole at Devin.

Rolls

Attack/Bless/Damage - (1d20+5, 1d4, 1d8+3)

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

1d4 : (1) = 1

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

Sep 9, 2017 2:01 am
Round Two: Mryio
Mryio's pole hits the man in the ribs, but he just shrugs off the minor hit and keeps fighting.

Devin -6 HP
Sep 9, 2017 2:02 am
Round Three: Devin
He curses under his breath, "Just back down and I won't kill you!" he shouts as he stabs again. Mryio is able to avoid the attack with ease.

Devin -6 HP
OOC:
Mryio turn!
Sep 9, 2017 6:57 am
"I do not fear dying for what is right; I will not abandon this creature so you can make an expendable profit." Mryio swings the staff out at the man.

Rolls

Attack/Bless/Damage - (1d20+5, 1d4, 1d8+3)

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

1d4 : (1) = 1

1d8+3 : (7) + 3 = 10

Sep 10, 2017 6:52 pm
Round Three: Mryio
Mryio's attack catches the man on the side of the head and he stumbles backward, almost falling over. With a growl, the man turns and flees into the woods.
Sep 10, 2017 7:04 pm
Mryio watches the man run, making sure he is fleeing for good before turning his attention to the stag. He lessens his fighting stance and begins to use the pole as a walking stick, extending his other arm, and slowly begins approaching "The bolt and the trap...I can help you, if you allow me to. It will be painful but know that that isn't my intent; in order to heal you, I must fix what is wrong."
Sep 10, 2017 11:43 pm
The stag stares into Mryio's eyes for a moment before nodding at him; a curiously human gesture.
Sep 11, 2017 3:39 am
With consent granted, Mryio wastes no further time with a slow approach and quickly sets to work removing the bolt and bear trap. He opts for a quick pull to the bolt "Get ready, I'll pull on three. One, Two," He pulls the bolt, quick like a band-aid "Three. Surprise tricks the body, quickness minimizes the pain." He pets the stag, calmly, before moving on to the bear trap. He pries the iron teeth apart enough for the stag to step free of it before releasing it.

Mryio pulls out a mushroom "Here, eat, it will help you." he extends his hand to it's mouth.
OOC:
15 lay on hands.
Sep 11, 2017 12:04 pm
The stag screams in pain as you pull the bolt out, but allows you to do so without other complaint. When the jaws of the bear trap are opened, it steps out gingerly, taking the mushroom eagerly. You watch the wounds heal before your eyes and it stands straight. You realize now that it's as tall as you are, which it didn't seem to be before.

It leaps past you, brushing your shoulder as it goes, and disappears into the forest.

Naatkinson sent a note to HypCo
Sep 11, 2017 1:58 pm
Mryio watches as it sails into the forest, he gives it a bow with a smile as it disappears "You're welcome." He straightens out and makes his way to the sleeping man and gives him a light shake "Come on, I don't want to carry you and I don't feel like dragging you."

HypCo sent a note to Naatkinson
Sep 11, 2017 3:09 pm
Naatkinson sent a note to HypCo
The man struggles to open his eyes, but eventually gets to his feet. He stretches and yawns, "What in the nine hells happened?" he asks as you begin heading back, "And where's Devin?"
Sep 11, 2017 3:33 pm
"Seems like Mr. Devin didn't want to share didn't want to share in the ill spoils you planned on getting." Mryio doesn't turn to talk, instead continuing forward back to where they stopped "As for where he is, if he's smart, he ran back to the caravans."

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Sep 12, 2017 2:35 am
"Hmm... maybe," the man says, but doesn't say anything else about it.
About an hour after Mryio ran off, he returns in the company of one of the other guards, who looks quite tired.

Leda, a female guard, stands up as he approaches, "So... what happened? You're the first one's back."
Sep 12, 2017 2:37 am
Bughu looks over the arrivals, attempting to note differences in condition.
Sep 12, 2017 2:38 am
The guard looks to be a bit dirty, as if he was rolling around on the ground.

Mryio has a couple of bloodstains on his shirt, but nothing too serious.
Sep 12, 2017 2:52 am
Bughu leans over to Erich and Jon, "Someone's missing." However, he doesn't provide any hypothesis as to why, simply making the observation.
Sep 12, 2017 3:23 am
"Greed overcame Mr. Devin, he used magics to take care of sleepyhead." Mryio gives a slight nod towards the other man "When his magics failed on me Mr. Devin turned to iron, he then fled after he was outmatched. All for naught it would seem, as the stag turned out to be an illusion."
Sep 12, 2017 3:32 am
OOC:
it wasn't actually an illusion. "Disappearing into the forest" wasn't meant to be literal

Unless you're saying that to deter further pursuit, then carry on :-)
Sep 12, 2017 3:40 am
OOC:
Yep, it was to deter.
Sep 12, 2017 4:00 am
Bughu says nothing of the blood; at least, not in public.
Sep 12, 2017 1:26 pm
Erich nods lightly at Bughu's observation, his own eyes flickering over the returning crowd.
Sep 14, 2017 6:53 pm
Two days later, you stop at an inn on the road which is big enough to house all of you. It is called "The Wayward Wanderer" and there is a sign with a picture of a ragged man carrying a sack over his shoulder out front. The place is warm inside and the staff is friendly. It seems to be your standard roadside inn as far as you can tell.

This night, the cultists actually go inside and get rooms rather than staying with their goods.
Sep 14, 2017 7:08 pm
Wanting to avoid the drink's temptation and making a fool of himself again, Mryio stays outside to guard the cart.
Sep 14, 2017 7:15 pm
Bughu only enters the tavern to obtain food and non-alcoholic drink. He returns with two servings, handing one to Mryio before sitting guard outside. He pays attention to the cultists' wagon as well, to see if anyone approaches.

"What happened back there with the deer?" he asks quietly. "I figured it was a distraction for the cultists, but nothing happened while you were gone."
Sep 14, 2017 7:41 pm
Mryio accepts the drink, giving Bughu a thankful nod. After taking a sip, he holds it in his lap "Not sure, I saw a unique animal that showed heightened intelligence and wanted to learn from it. After seeing it be shot and pursued, I knew that if I didn't follow this world would of lost a one of a kind creature. In the woods the stag was caught in a bear trap and the two men closed in on it; Devin put the other asleep with a wand. When I told him to change his course, he attempted the magic on me, when that failed he chose to draw iron. I gave him a second chance to rethink his actions which he again ignored. After being bested, he ran off into the woods; I figured he was running back to the caravan, guess not. I don't know...this whole thing reeks of odd." He looks at the cultists cart while he takes a sip of the supplied drink.
OOC:
Probably nothing but can I divine sense on the cultist cart.
HypCo sent a note to Naatkinson
Sep 14, 2017 7:45 pm
OOC:
There's nothing that you detect on the cart
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Sep 14, 2017 8:17 pm
"Nobody seemed to notice that the guy was gone," says Bughu, though he can only determine that based on his own perceptions. "Maybe that's common."
Sep 14, 2017 8:56 pm
"Or perhaps his true colors were revealed and the majority saw this convoy was better off without him; I will not miss the company of someone who would turn on their brethren so easily." Mryio gives his mustache a couple strokes, as if thinking on something, before taking another drink.
Sep 18, 2017 12:07 pm
You see the cultists in a seat over at the corner, sipping drinks and chatting quietly among themselves. After about an hour of them sitting there, a skinny man in overly large clothes and with a wool hat makes his way over to them. You can hear snippets of the conversation, in which he offers them payment in order to ride with their wagon, to which they readily agree. With a smile, the skinny man sits down with them and orders a mug of ale for himself.
Sep 18, 2017 12:45 pm
Erich watches as the man sits down and discusses the payment to ride. Scratching the light stubble on his chin, he contemplates the implications.

Well, he could be a contact using this as an excuse to get with them. I wonder....

He leans over to Bughu and whispers to him.

I don't trust the skinny man. I'm not exactly sure what he's up to, but it seems odd to pick that group out, doesn't it?
Sep 18, 2017 3:37 pm
"Yep," Bughu says quietly. He sips his drink, then says into his mug, "Moreso since this is the first time they've left their wagons. Almost like their meeting was arranged."
Sep 26, 2017 2:37 am
"Well, we don't know what they got planned. Maybe we can only keep an eye on where they go, like Sir Frume wanted," says Bughu, taking a bite from his now-cold meal.
Sep 26, 2017 12:23 pm
OOC:
Sorry for the delay. Just looking for another player at the moment!
Oct 1, 2017 2:41 am
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Oct 1, 2017 3:34 am
I pluck at the lute in a frenzy before coming to my epic conclusion and stop, allowing the silence to linger as I bask in it, even if it's my own imagined silence. "And that, my friends, is the tale of the Dragon and the Wolf." I stand and take a deep bow. As I look up, I take a look around the room to get a read on it.
Last edited October 1, 2017 3:36 am

Rolls

Performance - (1d20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

Insight check - (1d20+6)

(12) + 6 = 18

Oct 5, 2017 5:30 pm
OOC:
Oh my gosh... I somehow missed this game on every single pass I've made through the forum list... Sorry guys!
The crowd, which is growing as more and more caravan workers moving into the room, claps and howls appreciatively. Xalana sees that there is a small group of men sitting around the table when a oddly dressed man with a wool cap takes a seat and begins speaking to them quietly. Also in the room you see a Halfling with a sword at his belt, a half-elven man in robes, and a human warrior sitting together around a table.

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Oct 6, 2017 2:55 am
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Last edited October 6, 2017 2:56 am
Oct 6, 2017 12:04 pm
Naatkinson sent a note to HypCo
Oct 6, 2017 1:36 pm
Erich sits with his travelling companions, enjoying a tasty ale.
Oct 6, 2017 1:38 pm
I walk around the room in search of tips, making my way towards the group seated at the table. "You all seem like a friendly lot. You have room for one more?"

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Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

Oct 6, 2017 7:09 pm
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Oct 6, 2017 7:13 pm
"A fine ballad! Very fine. Quite relatable. By all means, certainly, join us." Jon scoots his chair over to make room and offers the musician a silver piece.
Oct 7, 2017 2:54 am
OOC:
Maybe this is a tavern with an open-faced patio or something looking into the common room, where Myrio and Bughu can stay by the wagons while still watching the performance. Otherwise, I'm okay with retconning my position to be at a table.
Last edited October 7, 2017 2:55 am
Oct 7, 2017 2:55 am
CancerMan says:
OOC:
Maybe this is a tavern with an open-faced patio or something looking into the common room, where Myrio and Bughu can stay by the wagons while still watching the performance.
OOC:
Yes, let's go with that. That will solve the problem of my not paying enough attention to what's going on!
Oct 7, 2017 3:01 am
Bughu finds himself inadvertently clapping after the performance, moved by the energy in the song.
Oct 8, 2017 11:58 pm
The cultists and the newcomer are also clapping at the performance. They seem completely at ease with one another.
Oct 9, 2017 2:33 am
"Why thank you! I've been so bored lately. Anything interesting going on? Other than my performance, of course. Not to Harp on it, but I could use some excitement in my life! Perhaps I could lend you my ear instead of the other way around, hmm?"
Oct 9, 2017 11:57 pm
Bughu mutters to Myrio, "Maybe I'll stay up tonight, just in case something happens to their wagon."
Oct 10, 2017 4:16 am
"An archer needs his wits and keen eye, you do not get those by skipping sleep. Keep a close bed to me; I will watch them and awake you if anything happens." Mryio silently replies back to Bughu "And I'll stop you there. I will wake you, I won't try to persuade them alone; I'm not a foolish man. These cultists haven't been to keen on reform and if something does happen where they need the cover of night and sleep, the are more likely to try and silence me... In that event, it will be nice to have you by my side when it inevitably happens."
Oct 10, 2017 5:38 am
"We'll treat this as a watch, then," Bughu offers by way of compromise. "We can see if Jon and Erich are willing to participate." The archer waits until there's a free moment to propose the idea to the others.
Oct 11, 2017 4:18 pm
OOC:
I'm not sure if it was missed, but Xalana has made her way over and spoken to you: Post
Oct 11, 2017 4:23 pm
OOC:
Sorry! I thought it was either the table Jon and Erich were at (I may be mistaken about their positioning, too), or the cultist's table. May we retcon to have Bughu's and Myrio's discussion occur prior to Xalana's approach?
Bughu is obviously surprised at the bard's arrival, assuming that he and Myrio weren't worth a conversation from the performer. "Uh, well, we're just escorting the caravan north. Not much excitement, I suppose," he begins. After a thought, he adds, "Oh, there was a golden stag. Everyone got rather excited about that, but only my companion here got close to it."
Oct 12, 2017 6:31 am
OOC:
I was under the same impression.
Mryio tips his mug towards the performer at the mention of him and the golden stag, but otherwise remains quiet. It isn't too difficult to tell he is trying to keep his mind distracted.
Oct 12, 2017 12:56 pm
OOC:
Yeah, I messed up this whole scene. Try to bear with me!
Oct 12, 2017 3:33 pm
"Excellent! Perhaps I can help you with this escort service of yours. Is it just the two of you?"
Oct 12, 2017 3:37 pm
OOC:
So, for continuity, we'll assume that Jon and Erich are at a table. Bughu and Mryio are on the patio and speaking to Xalana.
We will also have Bughu and Mryio's conversation happen BEFORE Xalana approaches.

That should get everything back in line! Sound fair?
Oct 12, 2017 3:40 pm
OOC:
Xalana totally meant to talk to the table with the skinny guy and hat but no worries. We’re all confused here.
Oct 12, 2017 4:28 pm
Bughu tips his head over to where Jon and Erich are relaxing in tavern meditation. "Got those two on the team, and we're taking care of one wagon in the caravan," he explains, then adds, "I personally wouldn't mind another pair of eyes, though; a lot of things to observe."
Oct 13, 2017 1:30 pm
Ulyeltin, the man who's hired you on as guards, wanders over, "Hey there, Bughu, Mryio! Who's yer little friend?" he asks with a chuckle.
Oct 13, 2017 4:02 pm
"Uh," says Bughu, realizing that he never got her name, "she was interested in a job."
Oct 14, 2017 3:34 am
Mryio finishes off his tankard and nods towards the entertainer "She can have my cut, if pay holds your tongue Ulyeltin. Be nice with another set of eyes."
Oct 15, 2017 1:24 am
"As handy as me employees are on a trip, they don't seem to be too good with people," Ulyeltin says, then turns to Xalana, "Missy, if ye play for us on the trip, I'd be happy to pay for ye to come along!"
Oct 15, 2017 1:33 am
So, Jon, what's your opinion of our escort service so far? I've not spent a lot of time in organized groups, as you may have noticed. Are things progressing as you would expect? Erich asks, sipping his drink again.
Last edited October 15, 2017 1:34 am
Oct 15, 2017 8:43 am
"Wonderful! I do believe our goals are aligned so that works out quite well." I give em a wink.
Oct 15, 2017 9:45 am
Mryio cracks a grin as he places his empty tankard on the table "Ah, but you don't pay us to be good with people." He stands with a chuckle and claps Ulyeltin on the back. He gathers his tankard, makes his way to the entertainer, and holds his hand out "Welcome aboard, the name's Mryio. Get you something from the bar?"
Oct 15, 2017 5:11 pm
Bughu returns his attention to the cultists and their friend, observing their actions.
Oct 16, 2017 1:18 pm
The cultists and the new member of their group are quietly talking among themselves. After about twenty more minutes, they head upstairs to sleep for the night.

Ulyeltin laughs heartily, "True enough!" he says, "So, little miss, what's yer name?"

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Oct 16, 2017 5:03 pm
Jon shrugs. "I'm new to this sort of work, myself. Lone heroics were how I made my name. I think I could get used to this, though."
Oct 16, 2017 5:08 pm
"I’ll have whatever you’re having. Name’s Xalana. No need for introductions. Let’s just say we have a few mutual friends. I’m sure we’ll have much "catching up" to do at a more convenient time, eh?"
Oct 17, 2017 6:51 am
Mryio shrugs his eyebrows "Suit yourself, Xalana. How about you, Ulyeltin, anything?" Upon getting Ulyeltin's answer, he nods at Bughu "Can you follow me to the bar? Might need help carrying the drinks and staving off temptations."
Oct 17, 2017 8:17 am
Bughu stands to wordlessly follow Myrio.
Oct 17, 2017 9:05 am
Mryio gets out of earshot of the table before he starts to talk to Bughu "What's your thought on her? For our main reason I mean, I don't see a problem with her helping guard the caravan." Getting to the bar counter, he places an order for Ulyeltin's request—if given— and two waters. "That mutual friend comment hit an odd note with me."
Oct 17, 2017 12:29 pm
Ulyeltin smiles, "Ah, I never turn down a free drink! Get me whatever swill this place is servin'," he says, clapping Mryio on the back as he leaves.
Oct 17, 2017 3:35 pm
"Same," says Bughu. "I think when we get a chance, away from our boss, we ought to ask about this friend."
Oct 17, 2017 3:38 pm
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Oct 17, 2017 3:47 pm
"How has the journey been so far, Ulyeltin? Uneventful I hope?"
Oct 18, 2017 12:29 am
"Agreed." Mryio nods, as the bartender returns with his order. Placing a few coins and the counter, he gathers the two tankards of water, leaving Ulyeltin requested alcohol to be picked up by Bughu. "Worst case, she'll ease up on the caravan watch duty so our eyes can be elsewhere."
Last edited October 19, 2017 2:10 am
Oct 19, 2017 1:13 am
Ulyetlin nods, "Aye, besides that golden stag that got everyone in a huff... 'Twas a sight to behold, I tell ye!"
Oct 20, 2017 2:47 am
OOC:
Anything else before morning?
Oct 20, 2017 3:41 am
Bughu retrieves the drinks and returns to the others.
OOC:
I'd like to speak to Xalana away from Ulyetlin before the evening ends, if there is the opportunity.
Oct 21, 2017 12:14 am
OOC:
I see no problem with that
A short time later, Ulyetlin is passed out on a table in the middle of the room and Bughu and Xalana find themselves alone just outside.
Oct 21, 2017 12:24 am
Bughu stands in awkward silence for a bit, arms folded across his chest. "You said something earlier," he begins, "about mutual friends. What'd you mean by that?"
Oct 21, 2017 1:01 am
I lean closer, whispering "Leosin sent me. Great friend of mine, we go way back. I didn't want to say anything inside in case anyone was listening. Anyways, he thought you could use my help."
Oct 21, 2017 2:14 am
Bughu seems relieved, like a weight has been taken off his shoulders. "Thanks," is all he says.
Oct 21, 2017 2:43 am
I laugh, giving Bughu a playful punch on the shoulder. "Relax! Things can seem pretty bleak at times, but don't you worry. There is still hope. Most people are good if you just give them a chance."
Oct 22, 2017 1:49 am
Bughu fills Xalana in on the events since their departure from Elturel, and their observations of the cultists.
OOC:
Good to go for the next morning!
Oct 23, 2017 3:36 am
The next morning, you set out once more, this time with Xalana to assist you. The strange robed man is still with the cultists and spends his time riding at the front of one of the wagons.

Leda, one of the guards of another caravan, approaches partway through the day. "Skinny guy is a bit odd, don't you think?" she asks conversationally, "'Specially since they wouldn't take people on in Baldur's Gate. Your little friend is a much more welcome addition to the journey, I think," she says with a wink at Xalana.
Oct 23, 2017 12:43 pm
A bit odd about sums it up, I would say. Erich mentions, quietly. Probably a good reason to stay a little more alert.
Oct 23, 2017 1:05 pm
"Smart idea! Say, anyone interested in a song or two? Of course, I’ll need a bit of a warm-up first. Excuse me for a moment." I begin vocalizing and moving my arms, first in bizarre fluid patterns, and then in various practiced motions.
[ +- ] Casting Detect Thoughts
OOC:
Fyi am only reading surface thoughts of as many of the "main" cultists as possible without detection, so no need for wisdom save

Rolls

Deception (just in case) - (1d20+5)

(3) + 5 = 8

Oct 23, 2017 4:15 pm
Bughu lets Erich handle the conversation with Leda, while he maintains his overwatch on both the caravan and the cultists.
Oct 23, 2017 9:45 pm
Leda watches Xalana with amusement, "I'd love to have some more music! Your show last night was spectacular," she says happily.

As Xalana finishes her spell, she begins to hear the thoughts of the cultists. Most of what she gets from them is a sense of boredom. She does catch one of them wondering how much treasure has been amassed already at the 'castle'.
Oct 24, 2017 5:36 pm
"You got it!" And with that, I sing a happy song of adventurous travel and amassed fortunes, hoping to entertain and reduce the boredom of anyone within earshot.

Rolls

Performance - (1d20+5)

(17) + 5 = 22

Oct 26, 2017 9:32 pm
As Leda turns her attention to Xalana and her dulcet tones, Erich sits back and enjoys the music while keeping an eye on the cultists and their wagon.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+2)

(15) + 2 = 17

Oct 27, 2017 2:19 am
Leda walks with your wagon as you go, happily humming along with Xalana's excellent song. Laselfro suddenly bursts into song, breaking his usual brooding silence. His voice is a fine tenor and goes well with Xalana's music. Even the cultists seem to be amused by the music.

As you continue your show, there is a loud crack and then a crunch as the back wheel on one of the cult wagons breaks. Before anyone can react, a crate falls from the back of their wagon and cracks open. You see inside the crate is coins and jewelry. The cultists quickly move into action and get the crate back to where it goes before beginning to inspect the wheel.
Oct 27, 2017 6:49 pm
Mryio leans in to whisper to Bughu "I'm going to go up and test their reaction to someone approaching; keep and eye on them and watch my back." He makes his way towards the cultist's wagon "Should of used some of that gold to purchase a finer wagon, ay?" he peers over to inspect the wheel as well "Or, judging by that wheel, a separate wagon. My pops used to make these in his free time for some spare gold on the side; you overbore it—you can tell by how the wheel broke, it was from strain. I'm quite surprised actually that you made it as far as you did."
Oct 27, 2017 7:13 pm
Bughu rests his left arm against Ulyeltin's wagon as he stands to its side, trying to keep the cultists in full view. He also tries to make it look like he is resting while waiting for the repairs, but he is really setting up his firing position for his crossbow should it come to that.
Oct 28, 2017 12:57 am
The cultists seem to be embarrassed and slightly grumpy, but don't try to force Mryio away, "Yeah? You think so?" one of them asks, "You wanna take a look at our extra? See if it's any good?"

The man in the wool cap is scowling and watching Mryio from the bench of another wagon.
Oct 28, 2017 2:52 am
I lean towards Erich and tap him on the shoulder. He hears a whisper in his head. They're taking all the treasure they've picked up and bringing it to a castle. Know of any around here? Out loud I say "Has anyone ever told you that your eyes are lovely?"
OOC:
Using Message
Last edited October 28, 2017 3:23 am
Oct 28, 2017 11:52 am
Erich blushes just slightly at the spoken word.

Ahh -- uhm - not precisely, no. I've lived alone for the last many years. he stammers out, trying to think of any castles that would be in the area.

Rolls

Flat INT roll.... - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Oct 28, 2017 6:44 pm
Naatkinson says:
The cultists seem to be embarrassed and slightly grumpy, but don't try to force Mryio away, "Yeah? You think so?" one of them asks, "You wanna take a look at our extra? See if it's any good?"

The man in the wool cap is scowling and watching Mryio from the bench of another wagon.
Mryio leans in to get a better view, with a nod, he replies "Not much to look at to be frank, your issue wasn't really wheels or the cart, it was just the weight; you just need to offload some of the weight and you'll be golden."
Oct 29, 2017 2:58 am
With the long and varied history of the Sword Coast, there are a hundred different possible castle that the man could have been thinking of. Many are abandoned, but there are some that occasionally have residents, though they are usually evicted one way or another.

The man scowls at Mryio, "Not much help. Can't just get rid of the goods we been hired to transport, can we?"
Oct 29, 2017 7:31 am
Mryio shrugs "I'm just telling you the cards that were dealt. I don't want to delay this caravan any longer than it needs to be and I know wagons." Mryio stares at the man, his face stoic "So you can pout and growl at me all you want, that doesn't change the fact that your cart is overburdened and, without displacing some of the weight, your spare is bound to break as well. And I don't remember ever telling you to get rid of your goods. Come on, use your brain; have your men carry a box or two, hire one of the other driver to take some of your burden; silk doesn't weight that much and I'm sure, if you pad her pockets a bit, she wouldn't mind easing your cargo." He shrugs again "I've given you the information and some options to do with as you please; I really don't care one way or the other so long as you work towards not delaying this caravan further."
Oct 29, 2017 7:41 am
Bughu watches the exchange, maintaining his overwatch on Myrio. He spares a glance to the Wool Cap to gauge the other man's reaction.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Oct 29, 2017 10:47 pm
The man in the wool cap still looks on in irritation, but doesn't say or do anything otherwise.

The man speaking to Mryio smiles, "You're right, of course. Just stressed out is all. Wish I could take the advice, but my employer's instructions were very clear. We'll just have to find another way, or at least pray for the best."
Oct 30, 2017 8:41 pm
Mryio claps the man on the shoulder and smiles "Water under the bridge, friend. I don't know your instructions but we've all seen the contents of one crate, I don't see the harm in keeping that one out and having one of your guys carrying it. If you want, I will personally deal with anyone who isn't apart of your caravan if they try something with it, free of charge. Of course, I can't force you into doing anything you don't want to, only offering friendly advice and hoping to avoid this in the future; who knows, without seeing the rest of your cargo, one box may not even be enough to move your wagon to a safe load." Sans any interruptions, he turns to leave the cultists to repair their wagon and makes it back to his group.
Oct 31, 2017 5:08 am
Bughu maintains his stance until Myrio returns, then resumes his position as caravan guard while waiting for the procession to move forward.
Oct 31, 2017 6:12 pm
It doesn't take long before the wagon is fixed and you are back on the road. A couple of weeks later, you find yourselves approaching the village of Daggerford, a mere 120 miles south of Waterdeep. It is a small village, but is walled and friendly to travelers. It is the last full-day rest you're likely to have.
Nov 2, 2017 10:50 pm
Jon, weary from travel, goes looking for a quiet tavern in which to slowly consume a very large breakfast and write his letters home.
Nov 3, 2017 2:24 am
The wagons make their slow way across the final bridge approaching town. The river stretches along as far as you can see to the east, and west, eventually meeting with the Sea of Swords far to the west of here. On the north bank, Daggerford sits behind its stone wall, where you see a number of guards walking along and keeping an eye out for danger.

You roll into town without issue and see the town, though small, is lively and people bustle along the streets, ducking in and out of shops. Straight ahead is a three-story inn from which you can hear the sound of revelry. A lively tune meets you as you approach, and you are let off while the wagons are led further into town, where they will be secured by the town guard. Even the cultists leave their wagons here and make their way to the inn.

The place is busy and a number of servers weave through the crowd, delivering food and drink to the patrons. You find a seat against a wall before being approached by a serving girl. She takes your orders quickly and makes her way to the bar to fetch your drinks. Keeping a close eye on the cultists, you see them talking among themselves before taking a seat in a corner and sitting down for a drink. You'd swear that the wool-capped man seems to be in charge at this point.
Nov 3, 2017 2:24 am
Bughu remains close to the wagons, trying to ensure the cultists remain in sight.
Nov 4, 2017 5:14 am
OOC:
I was under the impression that the cultist left their wagon and are at the inn. Let me know if that changes Bughu's location or not.
Mryio leans close to Bughu, looking at the cultists with his peripherals, and whispers "First time we've seen them completely abandon their wagon, aye?" He sips his mug of water "Might be worth trying to see if it is just gold they have in there or something more."
Nov 6, 2017 3:05 am
OOC:
Yes, the cultists are no longer with their wagon.
Nov 6, 2017 6:03 am
Bughu considers this. "Maybe. But they never took their eyes off of it before that stranger came along. Now that he's here, they're much more inattentive. And where did that guy go?"
Nov 6, 2017 1:38 pm
I need a bit of fresh air. All those weeks on the road, I got used to it. I'll take an ale when I get back, huh? Erich says, stretching his arms over his head before standing up to head outside the inn.

Once outside, he's going to lean back against the building where he can hopefully spot anyone else coming out to head towards the wagons.
Nov 8, 2017 4:31 pm
Erich steps outside back into the midday sun. The wagons travel down the road and then turn a corner, headed in the direction of a small keep on a hill on the north side of town. The merchants can pay to have their goods stored there and kept safe by the town guards. They have a good reputation for honesty and are well-trusted for this duty.

Bughu looks around and spot the man in the wool hat sitting at the table with the other cultists. He appears to be totally at ease now and is already halfway through his first glass of wine.
Nov 8, 2017 4:56 pm
OOC:
Did the cultists also pay to "keep" their wagon?
Nov 8, 2017 4:57 pm
CancerMan says:
OOC:
Did the cultists also pay to "keep" their wagon?
OOC:
As far as you can tell, they all did. The guards took all of the wagons away
Nov 8, 2017 5:06 pm
"We could try and inspect their wagon, under the pretense of checking our own," Bughu says to Myrio. "I don't know how organized the guards are, though; their reputation might be reinforced with procedures ensuring security of the cargo. I know I would have a close eye if I were tasked with that duty."
Nov 10, 2017 5:15 am
"Perhaps they would keep silent, if they knew what they are and perhaps a bit of gold to line their pockets. If we want to take that road, I suggest we lead with a decoy cart so in the event they don't go for it they don't tell our friends we were interested in their secret cart; perhaps the silk woman, she seems nice." Mryio finishes off his water, as he readies himself for Bughu's answer.
Nov 10, 2017 5:32 am
Bughu frowns in thought, shaking his head. "Somehow I doubt they would accept bribes, given their reputation. I think we might be better off sticking to orders and just tailing them to their destination, wherever that is."
Nov 10, 2017 3:33 pm
"Have either of you... tried talking to the man? We’re all in agreement that he’s someone important, right?" I give them a look like "There’s an obvious option here."
Last edited November 10, 2017 3:34 pm
Nov 10, 2017 4:18 pm
"We don't exactly have the best reputation with the Cult," says Bughu. "And if they somehow discover who we are or why we're interested in them, it'll blow the plan."
Nov 10, 2017 4:37 pm
"Ah, yes. You’re not exactly one for stealth. Kinda the reason why you need someone like me. Well, I can read his thoughts but it might be risky if he finds out. No risk, no reward?"
Nov 10, 2017 4:43 pm
Bughu says, "You can what?"
Nov 10, 2017 4:56 pm
I smile and point at my head. He hears me speaking into his mind.
[ +- ] Message to Bughu
Nov 10, 2017 4:59 pm
"Um, okay," says Bughu, surprised and off-footed. "You, uh... what happens if he finds out?"
Nov 11, 2017 4:30 am
"He’ll probably be mad at me I guess."
Nov 13, 2017 5:20 pm
Bughu nods. "I guess so," he says. "Will it be obvious that it's you?"
Nov 16, 2017 11:58 pm
OOC:
Just waiting on you guys to decide a course of action :)
Nov 17, 2017 1:25 am
"Probably. Unless he has a lot of friends that read minds for fun, chances are he'll trust me least and blame me first."
Nov 17, 2017 2:38 am
Bughu nods again. "Let us know when you do it, and if you need backup."
Nov 20, 2017 3:02 am
"How about right now?" I begin the incantation, inter-weaving it into a simple, jaunty tune as I begin to walk around the inn. Once I have the attention of a few patrons, I begin to slowly increase by volume as I sing. I point at the nearest patron by the bar. "You, there! Give me a name of a town of ill repute, and the name of a large mammal." I slowly make my way towards the man in the wool hat, hoping to time my song so that my third or fourth verse will (hopefully) include his input.

Rolls

Performance - (1d20+5)

(6) + 5 = 11

Deception? - (1d20+5)

(1) + 5 = 6

Nov 20, 2017 3:54 am
Bughu tries to keep Xalana in sight, his hands habitually checking the readiness of his bows.
Nov 20, 2017 2:05 pm
Erich, contented that the wagons were not going anywhere he needed to be concerned with, slips back into the bar and back to his seat, as Xalana begins the fabulous performance. He holds his hand up, signalling he'd like a flagon of ale.
Nov 21, 2017 4:35 pm
The man looks surprised to be called on, but goes along with it, "Umm... Skullport and Horses!"

The man in the hat sits quietly and watches Xalana's performance, sipping from a glass of wine.

At Erich's signal, one of the serving staff makes their way over and delivers a mug of ale from him, collecting 4 cp in payment.
Nov 24, 2017 3:35 pm
OOC:
Bump! Let me know when you're ready to probe his mind :)
Nov 24, 2017 4:00 pm
It’s not my best song, but it’s the one I break out when I arrive in a new town and need to warm up the crowd. I continue around the room, mixing in more key words from the audience and spinning a ridiculous tale that is a spin on a local legend, as told by the hero’s trusty horse. When I continue around the room for the third time I briefly make eye contact with my target.
OOC:
I was totally going to write a song but I have a cold and it’s Thanksgiving weekend so I’m being lazy. Mind probe time!

Rolls

Performance - (1d20+5)

(16) + 5 = 21

Nov 24, 2017 4:31 pm
Xalana performs the song very well, much to the delight of the people at the tavern. Those in the tavern, including most of the cultists, shake with laughter, and even the wool-capped man seems amused by the tale.

As Xalana tries to peer into his mind, she briefly gets a peek at his thoughts, which seem to include a name, "Rezmir", and an image of a black half-dragon. She is then forcibly shoved out of his mind and he glares furiously at Xalana, he leans in to speak to the others in his group, all of whom become very serious and head upstairs.
Nov 27, 2017 4:19 pm
I smile and wink at the man, then watch as the group heads upstairs.
[ +- ] Message to Bughu
Nov 27, 2017 4:28 pm
Bughu looks over to Myrio and nods. "She's been spotted," he says, unsure that he picked the right word for this type of arcane discovery.
[ +- ] Reply to Xalana
Nov 28, 2017 6:17 pm
OOC:
Anything else for the rest of the day or is it time to skip forward? It's currently about 1 PM. Also, do you plan to see if you can sneak in to look at the cultist wagons tonight?
Nov 28, 2017 7:31 pm
Bughu consults with the others. "Since they suspect Xalana, should we try to take a look at that wagon? We know they've already got it full of their loot for the cult, thanks to that accident on the road. I think I'm more inclined to keep an eye over our musician. What say the rest of you?"
Nov 28, 2017 10:31 pm
Mryio nods in agreement "Let's see if they're the type to silence the curious mind while it sleeps." He turns to face Xalana "You have nothing to fear from them if they choose to attack you at night. I will be there awaiting with my words and if they, like so many before, foolishly decline they will find peaceful doesn't mean helpless; and with Bughu at my side, I'm sure if you wanted you could sleep soundly through the night." He ends with a gentle smile and a sip of his water.
Nov 29, 2017 4:17 am
"You really think they would hurt me? Would you do the same if you were them? Better yet, maybe you shouldn’t answer that. I should go talk to him and apologize..."
Nov 29, 2017 5:37 am
"If you feel you owe them an apology I won't stop you, I will request to accompany you on this though; my dealings with this cult has been less than friendly."
Nov 29, 2017 6:38 am
Bughu nods. "That's our main fear, really. This cult is operating secretly, and they are devoted to their cause. I would not be surprised if resorted to poison in our drinks or a dagger in the night."
Nov 30, 2017 8:50 pm
OOC:
Xalana, are you going to apologize or let it go? Once I have that answer, I can move forward :)
Nov 30, 2017 11:11 pm
"Let’s give it a night. Maybe he’ll be less mad in the morning?"
Dec 1, 2017 7:33 pm
Bughu nods. "Maybe you should stay in our room with Myrio," he suggests. "I'll wait in yours in case you have visitors."
Dec 3, 2017 4:04 am
OOC:
Oh, I like planning! Xalana, will you stay with Mryio or in your own room?
Dec 4, 2017 3:58 am
"That's nice of you all, but you don't have to worry about me. Remember, I was sent here to help you guys."
Dec 4, 2017 2:29 pm
Erich smiles to himself at the confidence Xalana shows. When he totters off to bed, he doesn't really consider much other than how nice the pillow feels against his face.
Dec 6, 2017 3:03 am
That night as you are all sleeping, Xalana is woken by a sound outside of her window. There's a light rattle and the window begins to open...
OOC:
Xalana, how do you react?
Dec 8, 2017 5:53 pm
I stand up and lean against the wall closest to the window, waiting for whoever it is to make their appearance.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(14) + 4 = 18

Dec 9, 2017 4:31 pm
Xalana slinks into the shadows as a man in a black mask crawls through the window, moving toward the bed with a dagger in hand. He pauses, confused, when he sees that the bed is unoccupied.
Dec 10, 2017 12:23 am
I attempt to sneak up behind him and remove the dagger from his grasp.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

Strength check? - (1d20-1)

(12) - 1 = 11

Dec 12, 2017 1:32 am
Xalana snags the dagger out of his hand with ease and he freezes, looking down at his hand in shock and betrayal. He swallows hard and raises his hands above his head.
Dec 13, 2017 2:03 pm
Erich snores softly in his bed, well content to sleep comfortably for the first time in a while.
Dec 13, 2017 4:54 pm
"I think there’s been a misunderstanding... hear me out, I’m not a threat to anyone..."

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+7)

(4) + 7 = 11

Dec 14, 2017 8:14 pm
The man looks uncomfortable, "Uhh... Yes, a misunderstanding! I really should be going now..."
Dec 18, 2017 5:40 pm
"No, stay... we should talk this out. The name’s Xalana. And you are?"
Dec 19, 2017 9:06 pm
"Kevin," the man says, though it's quite clear that he's lying.
Dec 23, 2017 4:23 am
"Alright, we'll go with Kevin. The guy with the hat sent you right? You think you can set up a meeting with him? I wanted to apologize for what happened earlier. I was just trying to sing a song, ya know? Sometimes I take short cuts so I can know my audience a little better. Maybe I did the wrong thing and he got mad. But he don't gotta kill me over it!"
Last edited December 23, 2017 4:24 am
Dec 27, 2017 2:32 pm
'Kevin' looks around, appearing scared. Suddenly he rushes forward and attempts to grab hold of Xalana.
OOC:
Xalana, give me an Acrobatics or Athletics check to avoid being grappled

Rolls

'Kevin' Athletics to grapple Xalana - (1d20+2)

(14) + 2 = 16

Dec 28, 2017 3:11 am
"Hey! Watch your hands!" I attempt to twist just out of his grasp.

Rolls

Acrobatics - (1d20+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

Dec 28, 2017 1:10 pm
As a Kevin grabs me, I stare at the wall adjacent to the next room and direct a message through to one of my companions on the other side. Worth a shot!
[ +- ] Message
Dec 30, 2017 8:01 pm
Kevin begins pushing Xalana toward the window as her message reaches the ears of Bughu, who wakes out of a light sleep. As you reach the window, Kevin pushes Xalana, attempting to force her out and cause her to fall.
OOC:
Xalana, give me another Acrobatics check to stop from being shoved out of the window!

Rolls

Kevin Athletics - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Dec 30, 2017 8:27 pm
Bughu leaps from his chair with a start, surprised out of his doze. "Trouble!" he hisses to Myrio and the others. Scimitar at his waist and hand crossbow armed, Bughu flings the bedroom door open to make his way quickly to Xalana's room.
Dec 30, 2017 8:47 pm
Erich sleepily wakes up as Bughu shouts. Rubbing his eyes, he shuffles off after the warrior, patting his chest to find his arcane focus hanging from his neck.

Wha - what's happening? he says quietly, squinting down the hall.
Jan 3, 2018 12:00 am
Jon rolls out of bed and follows, not at all comprehending what is going on but knowing that he'd best stay with his group.
Jan 3, 2018 3:18 am
"HEY! You should be ashamed of yourself! I was trying to play nice!"
OOC:
Would like to attempt Cutting Words... forgot that I could maybe use that on an ability check?
Last edited January 3, 2018 3:21 am

Rolls

Acrobatics - (1d20+3)

(17) + 3 = 20

Cutting Words - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Jan 3, 2018 4:10 am
Mryio is quick on Bughu's tail, having a suspicion of what is wrong, no time is wasted grabbing weapons as he rushes to Xalana's room.
OOC:
You can definitely use cutting words for ability checks. What a save!
Jan 4, 2018 3:25 am
Just before she goes tumbling out the window, Xalana manages to turn Kevin enough that she bumps hard into the wall instead of sailing into the open air. Just a moment later, the door bursts open and her companions are standing there armed
Jan 4, 2018 4:12 pm
Bughu steps into the room and to the side of the doorway, clearing the space for the others to enter. He brings up his hand crossbow to eye level with the other man. "Stop right there," he says, letting his weapon add all the emphasis.
Jan 4, 2018 8:09 pm
Erich follows Bughu into the room, quickly making an assessment of the room before setting his sights on Kevin holding the new person near the window. A slightly manic smile starts to spread across his face as he brings one hand up, the other gripping the deep red gem at his neck.

I'd listen to him. It's good advice. he says. Gods above help this man if he pushes Bughu.
Jan 6, 2018 2:40 am
Kevin sighs and lets go of Xalana, "Fine, I surrender," he says.
Jan 9, 2018 6:38 pm
Bughu motions for Kevin to step away from the window. "Disarm him. And take off his mask," he asks of the others, maintaining his aim to keep the man subdued.
Jan 9, 2018 7:16 pm
Mryio quickly imposes himself between Kevin and Xalana. He stares at Kevin "You can keep your dignity and remove the mask and your weapons yourself or I can do it for you, the choice is yours; I'll prove a bit more than a challenge than a gnome who is half asleep, especially after you get an arrow lodged in your throat." He gives a backwards nod towards Bughu to further push his point.
Jan 9, 2018 8:08 pm
Kevin sighs and pulls his mask off slowly. Once the mask is off, you can see that Kevin is a middle-aged man with a terribly scarred face. It's quite obvious that he's not a part of the caravan that you've been traveling with.
Jan 9, 2018 8:41 pm
"Your weapons won't do you no good but if they make you feel more comfortable, if anything, keeping them will only make the one aiming an arrow at you upset." Mryio shrugs and pauses, giving Kevin a chance to relieve his weapons if he wants.

"Let's see how we are going to play. What are you doing here?"
Jan 11, 2018 4:55 am
"I would think that it's obvious," he says, glancing at Xalana, "I'm here to kill the little one, of course."
Jan 11, 2018 4:57 am
"If they sent you, I guess they weren't all that serious about it! Who sent you anyway?"
Jan 11, 2018 4:49 pm
Mryio clears his throat "'I was here', past tense; you will not lay a hand on her."
Jan 11, 2018 5:14 pm
Bughu keeps his hand crossbow steady in Kevin's direction, and uses his other hand to close the door.
Jan 12, 2018 2:57 am
"My employer is not known to you," Kevin says, ignoring Xalana's jibe, "Suffice it to say that he is not pleased by your meddling."
Jan 18, 2018 4:29 am
"Yeah, well we're not so happy with you either. Give me one reason why we shouldn't turn you over to the authorities."
Jan 20, 2018 12:14 am
Kevin shrugs, "Do what you must. I assure you that it will make little difference in the long run."
Jan 22, 2018 4:40 pm
"Then it shouldn't matter what you reveal to us," says Bughu. "Step away from the window and have a seat. Tell us who your employer is."
Jan 23, 2018 4:17 am
Kevin sighs, defeated, and sits, "Can't tell you much, honestly. Never met 'im."

He cracks his neck loudly and sighs again, this time in relief, "I was told to kill the little one," he explains, "Note said she was digging in places she shouldn't've been digging. Whatever that means."
Jan 26, 2018 6:05 pm
"Well, he’s useless. Now what? If we release you, you gonna try again? I won’t be so nice a second time."
Jan 26, 2018 9:54 pm
"Nope, I'll leave you alone," he says, "I know when I'm outmatched."
Jan 26, 2018 10:13 pm
Bughu asks, "Where did you get the note? Was it delivered in-person?"
Jan 27, 2018 1:47 am
"It was. A young boy delivered it to me but an hour ago," he says with a shrug, as if the messenger isn't important.
Jan 27, 2018 2:11 am
"...A child." Mryio whispers in disgust "Do you know where we'd be able to find this boy? I'm guessin' you still don't have the note."
Last edited January 27, 2018 4:06 am
Jan 27, 2018 2:30 am
"Didn't pay much attention to his appearance to be honest," Kevin says, "and I burned the note as soon as I finished readin' it. I'm not stupid enough to leave that lying around."
Jan 27, 2018 2:38 am
"Where'd you meet him? I'd imagine there isn't too many children running around at this time of night. What were you to do upon completion?"
Jan 27, 2018 3:39 am
"He came knocking on my door. Note said that the little one's worth 500 gold pieces. Just had to kill her and bring a lock of hair and her instrument to the old well when I was done."
Jan 27, 2018 4:11 am
"Have you done business with them before? How did they know to send the boy to you? Mryio brushes his mustache in thought before turning to Xalana "'Little one', how willing would you be to part with some of your hair and momentarily separate from your instrument?"
Jan 27, 2018 4:20 am
"500 gold! Wow! He must really be afraid of me!" I beam with pride, despite myself. "Um, well, I guess I could use a haircut, but yeah you'd have to pry this lute from my dead body. He at least got that part right. Sorry."
Jan 27, 2018 4:40 am
Mryio smiles at Xalana "Not a worry. It didn't say it had to be your lute...wouldn't happen to have a spare instrument, would you? Or perhaps a way to emulate your lute? It is dark out, it wouldn't have to be perfect, just enough to make them believe the job was completed."
Jan 30, 2018 5:00 pm
"We can try. I don’t have another instrument but maybe we can make it look like he’s carrying it? What did you have in mind?"
Jan 30, 2018 10:59 pm
Mryio shrugs "You're the musician, you'd be best fit to recreate your lute." He turns back to Kevin "What happens when you arrive at the old well? Stand and wait? Wave the items in the air showing completion?"
Jan 30, 2018 11:07 pm
"I just go over there and wait. The instrument has to be visible," Kevin replies with a sigh, seeing that this isn't going to get better any time soon.
Jan 30, 2018 11:17 pm
Bughu quietly maintains his watch on Kevin, content to leave the questioning to the others.
Feb 4, 2018 2:37 am
"What if you carry me back instead and pretend I'm dead?"
Feb 4, 2018 3:34 am
Kevin holds up one hand and slowly places a hand in a pouch at his side, "Don't worry, just getting my pipe," he says soothingly, slowly pulling out a pipe and a pouch of scented tobacco, "Anybody mind?"

"As for carrying you back... I think it's a tad risky," he says, "Assassins follow directions or we don't get paid."
Feb 4, 2018 4:17 am
"Alright, fine." With tears, I take out my lute and clutch it tightly. "You can take this lute back to him. But if things go south, you're going to protect it with your life and give it back to me after. We're doing you a favor here."
Feb 4, 2018 6:07 am
"Yes, I mind," says Bughu, finally. "You keep your hands free of anything. I don't trust you with fire and smoke."
Feb 6, 2018 1:32 am
Kevin sighs, but obeys and reluctantly puts his pipe and pouch back, "So, what do you need me to do?"
Feb 7, 2018 12:38 am
Erich continues watching his compatriots deal with the would-be assassin. It would be easy enough to just blast him in the face. No one to mutter about us. But perhaps this deception is worth it.
Feb 12, 2018 1:36 am
OOC:
Bump!

It seems as though the plan is to give Kevin the instrument and have him meet at the intended spot so that you can ambush whoever hired him?
Feb 12, 2018 4:09 am
OOC:
I am in with that plan.
Bughu informs the others that he will find a rooftop or other suitable perch to keep an eye on the meeting spot.
Feb 12, 2018 5:46 am
"You completed your job, you had no problems completing it, all went normal; that is how you'll act. I will not turn you in to the guards, when we confront the man that hired you, you are free to go; in return, I hope you find a different job, one where you know your employer and don't need to hide what you do."
Feb 13, 2018 4:06 am
"It's not that I don't trust you, Kevin. But you did try to kill me, so... sorry about this. I have to try, anyway." I place a hand on his shoulder and attempt to cast Suggestion. "You'll go to the spot you usually go to when the job you're hired for is complete, and you'll convince them that you did what they paid you to do. And if it all goes wrong and they're onto you or us, you'll do everything you can to return my lute safely back to me."
[ +- ] Suggestion
Last edited February 13, 2018 4:08 am
Feb 16, 2018 4:38 am
Kevin nods, "I understand," he says confidently, "I will protect your lute with my life."

With that, Kevin sets out to the appointed meeting place. You all find relatively hidden places around the spot where you can watch safely. He moves up and leans against the edge of the well to wait as nonchalantly as possible. After about ten minutes, you see a hooded figure approaching from the north. The figure is obviously quite large, though it appears to be trying to disguise its size.

The figure moves close to Kevin and begins speaking to him in whispers so low that you can't hear.
Feb 16, 2018 4:40 pm
From his perch, Bughu sets his eye on the large figure. In his role on overwatch, he waits for the others to act.
Feb 16, 2018 6:09 pm
Mryio stumbles out from his hiding spot, falls on the floor and unsteadily gets back up "Oi, where'dsh you come fromsh floor? He He He." He raises his hand up above his eyes, swaying from side to side "Oi, Dave-o? Thash you o'er ther? Ya propa shafted me atsh the pub mate. Can'tsh hold your liquor, had to bug out, mate? Was lookin' for you a good 10 minutesh before I hadta hit the dunny." He stumbles, waving from side to side, towards the well and the would-be assassin and figure.
Feb 16, 2018 9:07 pm
Erich takes a moment to look for any other miscreants nearby, as well as anything potentially flammable near where the meeting is happening.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Feb 17, 2018 12:50 am
Jon lies in wait near Bughu.
Feb 17, 2018 1:08 am
OOC:
Mryio, roll me some deception
Feb 17, 2018 8:38 am
.

Rolls

Deception - (1d20+3)

(20) + 3 = 23

Feb 21, 2018 3:53 am
Mryio's ruse is near-impossible to pierce and the figure growls. As it does so, the cloak behind it swishes, revealing a draconic tail which is lashing nervously, "Go, drunkard, lest I kill you where you stand!" it growls.
Feb 23, 2018 4:02 pm
Bughu guesses quietly, "Another half-dragon? Their agents are everywhere, it seems." He adjusts his crossbow and aims at the large figure.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(20) + 3 = 23

Feb 23, 2018 4:05 pm
At the mention of a half-dragon, Erich's attention perks up slightly. It would seem that way. Makes the position he's in very dangerous. Any chance of Myrio coming out unscathed?
Feb 23, 2018 5:30 pm
Mryio stops, swaying from side to side, and squints "Oi, you're not Dave-o. Yoush wouldn't happens to know...Ah buggah, Dave-o'sh a bloody doodle, you boyo'sh want to hit the barsh with me? Firsht rounds on me. Hehehe."
Feb 28, 2018 3:43 am
The cloaked half-dragon growls once more and draws a sword from beneath the cloak, "I was hoping to keep this day bloodless aside from the little bard..." he says as he raises his blade to strike Mryio down.
OOC:
You have a chance to react before he attacks Mryio. What do you do?
Feb 28, 2018 5:48 am
Bughu doesn't want to play their hand just yet. He draws the arrow back, but holds his fire for the moment.
OOC:
Ready action to shoot if Myrio cannot subdue or prevent combat, or if the half-dragon's associates show up.
Feb 28, 2018 1:08 pm
Mryio sways from side to side "Oi, whash wit' the shword? If this is the route you want to choose..." He straightens out "Grovel."
OOC:
Command. Wis. DC 13.
Mar 2, 2018 4:10 am
The half-dragon looks shocked for a moment as the magical command pounds into its mind. Its resolve seems to waver for a moment before it straightens up and begins to bring the blade of its sword down toward Mryio.
OOC:
Mryio's attempt failed, but the rest of you may still have a chance to stop him from striking your friend down!
Mar 2, 2018 5:35 am
Bughu releases his arrow, aiming at the half-dragon. "Best to capture them alive," he says to whomever is in proximity.

Rolls

Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+8, 1d8+4)

1d20+8 : (1) + 8 = 9

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

Mar 2, 2018 8:47 am
OOC:
Advantage for stealth?
Mar 2, 2018 3:34 pm
OOC:
Advantage for stealth, indeed!
Mar 2, 2018 4:58 pm
OOC:
Advantage for stealth!

Assuming it hits, I'd like to use Distracting Strike to give Advantage on the next person to attack the half-dragon before the start of my next turn.
[ +- ] Distracting Strike
[ +- ] Bughu's Combat Stats
Last edited March 2, 2018 5:01 pm

Rolls

Advantage - (1d20+8)

(19) + 8 = 27

Distracting Strike damage - (1d8)

(1) = 1

Mar 2, 2018 10:14 pm
I'll try. Erich says as he grips his crystal and mutters a few words, lifting a hand up towards the sky after Bughu's arrow streaks out.

Casting sleep as a second level spell, aiming to only hit the half-dragon with it.
1st 4/4 | 2nd 2/3 | 4 SP
22/22 HP | 16 AC | Inspiration 0
Last edited March 2, 2018 10:14 pm

Rolls

Sleepytime? - (7d8)

(6665155) = 34

Mar 7, 2018 3:42 am
Round One: Bughu and Erich
Bughu's arrow flies out, slicing across the half-dragon's ribcage and eliciting a grunt of pain from him.

Erich's magic washes over the beast, but it doesn't seem to have any effect on it.

Enemy
Half-Dragon: 44/57, AC 15
Mar 7, 2018 3:43 am
Round One: Enemy
The half-dragon swings his sword down at Mryio, but his aim is thrown off by Bughu's arrow and he ends up missing his target with both his first and follow-up swings.

Enemy
Half-Dragon: 44/57, AC 15
OOC:
Your turn!

His being distracted and missing is just flavor, not a reference to any mechanical benefit from the shot
Mar 7, 2018 4:03 am
That's it. Clearly he's not looking to back down. Erich says, feeling a tingling start to rush up his spine and down his arm. Vlamstraal! he says, thrusting his hand forward as his other moves in a complicated pattern. Three pinpoints of flame coalesce and streak out towards the half-dragon.

Casting scorching ray as a second level spell, aiming for the half-dragon. Burning 1 SP to allow a reroll of up to 3 of the damage dice for Empowered Metamagic. Because of Elemental Adept, if he's resistant to fire damage, my spells ignore that. Also, any 1s in the damage count as 2s because of the same feat.

All told, 17 fire damage. Bah. Stupid missing on two beams!

1st 4/4 | 2nd 1/3 | 3/4 SP
22/22 HP | 16 AC | Inspiration 0
Last edited March 7, 2018 4:05 am

Rolls

Scorching Ray, beam 1 - (1d20+5, 2d6)

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

2d6 : (31) = 4

Scorching Ray, beam 2 - (1d20+5, 2d6)

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

2d6 : (12) = 3

Scorching Ray, beam 3 - (1d20+5, 2d6)

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

2d6 : (64) = 10

Beam 2 Crit - (2d6)

(64) = 10

Empowered Metamagic (rerolling the 1 and 2 for beam 2) - (2d6)

(34) = 7

Mar 7, 2018 4:21 am
OOC:
Don't forget, your first attack roll should have been made with advantage due to Bughu's Distracting Strike
Mar 7, 2018 4:26 am
OOC:
Ah ha!
Make that 24 total damage (7 and 17)
Last edited March 7, 2018 4:26 am

Rolls

Advantaged first beam! - (1d20+5)

(18) + 5 = 23

Empowered reroll of the 1 on that first ray - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Mar 7, 2018 5:18 am
"He may back down if we take his legs out. Trust Mryio to subdue him, but let's weaken him first," Bughu says, adjusting his aim. He takes a deep breath and releases another arrow.

Under his breath, he adds, "Don't tell him I said that."
Last edited March 7, 2018 5:19 am

Rolls

Longbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+8, 1d8+4)

1d20+8 : (14) + 8 = 22

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

Mar 8, 2018 1:26 am
Mryio draws his maul "Last chance for you to back down before I let my friend here start negotiations." He hefts the maul, clapping it in his hand a few times "He's a lot rougher than I."
OOC:
Action: Dodge.
Mar 9, 2018 4:43 am
Round Two: Party
Erich's fiery magic strikes the half-dragon once and then again, scorching its clothing and making the air smell like burnt flesh.

Bughu's arrow strikes the creature in the side, and it grunts in pain again.

At Mryio's words, it growls, but drops its weapon, seeing no other alternative.


Enemy
Half-Dragon: 11/57, AC 15
Mar 9, 2018 7:24 pm
"Looks like he's giving up," says Bughu. "Head down there and see if Mryio needs help. I'll stay here on overwatch in case the dragonkin's friends show up."
Mar 9, 2018 7:54 pm
Mryio swings his maul down to rest the head on the ground and uses it as a crutch to lean on. He smiles "It seems not all are mindless drones in your cult. So, let's get down to brass tacks. Where do you fall on the hierarchy? Were you the one that set in motion my friend's death?"
Mar 9, 2018 8:11 pm
Erich nods to Bughu and moves downstairs. He'll stick mainly to the shadows and sides of the building, unless it appears that Myrio needs immediate assistance nearby.
Mar 13, 2018 3:29 am
"Yes, I am the one who put a bounty on her head," the half-dragon replies casually, "She has been digging into things that should remain untouched. She needs to learn to stay out of the minds of others!"
Mar 13, 2018 3:40 am
I remain hidden, still very insulted that everyone assumes I'm so easy to kill.
Mar 13, 2018 4:49 am
"And that justifies murder? Simply because she was curious? And now she's dead because you are incapable of leading an honest life? That's not how societies work!" Mryio hefts his maul up and brings it in front of the half-dragon's face "I don't like the way you breathe my air. Should I smear your brain into a fine jelly? I don't like your accent. Should I bash your face til your mother can't even identify you? I don't like our height difference. Should I smash your skull in so when you meet your god they decline you out of horror?" He lets his maul drop back down to the floor, producing a solid thump "No, because that isn't how people should behave. A simple conversation, like the one I have granted you here, the one you took from her, is all that you needed. You would of found she was just a curious musician, looking for details for her songs; she didn't know your dark secrets, she was simple scanning the room for interesting people. What do you say for yourself?"
Mar 14, 2018 2:40 am
The half-dragon smiles widely and then laughs, "I think you are a fool!" he says, and then barks out an arcane word. You can see him quickly fading from view.
OOC:
He enacted some sort of magic that's allowing him to escape. If you should beat him on initiative, you can take an action before he disappears fully!


EDIT: Welp... that shouldn't be hard!
Enemy
Half-Dragon: 11/57, AC 15

Rolls

Half-dragon initiative - (1d20+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Mar 14, 2018 2:49 am
"Likewise." Mryio recites his own arcane word and points at the half-dragon, sending a wave of lethargy to him. As the half-dragon begins to fall to the spell and his eyes begin to close the last thing he sees and hears is Mryio walking towards him "Enjoy your eternal slumber, you will not be waking up."
Last edited March 14, 2018 2:54 am

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+1)

(19) + 1 = 20

Sleep - (5d8)

(83132) = 17

Mar 14, 2018 2:53 am
At this distance, Bughu tries to make sense of what's going on.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Mar 14, 2018 4:52 am
From my hiding spot, I call out to my nearest friend. "Is he dead? Do you have eyes on my lute?"
Mar 15, 2018 2:50 am
Just before the half-dragon fades from view, his eyes open wide in shock and then he drifts off to sleep, falling in the middle of the square.

Kevin watches with shock, taking a couple of steps back, "What a monster!"
Mar 15, 2018 4:26 am
"Leave her lute and go, find a different line of work; if I ever encounter you on these terms again, I will have failed you and you will share his fate. Saavy, Kevin?" As he asks this, Mryio brings his maul down upon the half-dragon's head.

Rolls

Rolls, in case you want them - (1d20+5, 1d20+5, 4d6+3)

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

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

4d6+3 : (5421) + 3 = 15

Mar 15, 2018 2:08 pm
Kevin watches the brutal death of the half-dragon and shudders, "Got it," he says quietly, looking away from the gory mess, "Real name is Derek, by the way."

With that, the man takes his cloak off to make some padding and sets the lute gently down on top of it. With a nod, as if satisfied that he was gentle enough, he turns and walks away quickly.
Mar 15, 2018 2:48 pm
Mryio lets out a soft whistle, holds his hand up, and motions over Xalana with two fingers.
Mar 15, 2018 5:10 pm
Bughu gives one final scan of the area to see if there was anyone else watching the proceedings. He then climbs down from his perch and rejoins Mryio and the others.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(15) + 3 = 18

Mar 15, 2018 6:27 pm
Did he give up any extra information? Erich asks Mryio as he joins him near the now squished dragonkin.
Mar 15, 2018 9:51 pm
"Other than he was an irredeemable psychopath and what we already knew, no; he wasn't looking for a conversation." Mryio's expression is stern, more so than usual, and he speaks softly.
Mar 18, 2018 2:54 am
Bughu doesn't spot any other opponents, so he moves to join his companions. The ground is a mess of blood and gore since Mryio got ahold of the half-dragon. It appears to be wearing a breastplate beneath its cloak and has a longsword that it was once wielding. after a search of its body, it appears that it doesn't have any of the gold that it promised to pay Derek (Kevin). Either it wasn't going to pay the assassin or the man managed to take the money while you weren't paying attention.
Mar 18, 2018 4:49 am
"Nothing," says Bughu, unable to spy any clues that might further identify the half-dragon or his cohorts. "I'm glad our little friend is safe, but this might mean the cult will stop at nothing to carry out their plans. The other half-dragon also chose death, rather than surrender. I have a feeling the fanatics that pull the strings will be uncooperative."
Mar 18, 2018 8:22 am
Mryio rubs his face "I'm, unfortunately, noticing that pattern as well." He looks over the longsword and, if it has any kind of notable designs, casts divine sense on it.
Mar 19, 2018 4:23 am
I hug my lute to my chest. "I hope Kevin got paid at least. He was nice, other than the trying to kill me part. What now?"
Mar 19, 2018 4:43 am
"Derek." Mryio seems to absentmindedly correct "He was nice, just a bit lost." He looks over to see Xalana hugging her lute and places a hand on her shoulder "Thank you for parting with it temporarily, it was a key item needed for our plan. Your possible sacrifice was not lost on me. As for what now, we need to deal with this body."
Mar 19, 2018 4:53 am
Bughu nods, preparing to carry the corpse. "Any ideas?"
Mar 19, 2018 5:15 am
"A couple. Turn it into the authorities, explain the conditioning behind it. However, even though we aren't guilty of anything, this can cause possible hang up time with the law; not favorable. Toss him in the woods and hope the wildlife claims it before anyone notices him. This one relies on what type of wildlife calls the forest their home though. I highly doubt the cult will come forward to the law to fill out a missing person report so it could be just as simple as taking the body and leaving it to be undiscovered by the towns populous."
Mar 20, 2018 1:27 am
Hmm. Taking the body and leaving it away from prying eyes seems about the best course of action. Leaves us not having to do too much explaining at all. Erich says, scratching the side of his face, feeling the scruff starting to come in. Hmm. I need to take a blade to this pretty soon. he says, his mind wandering away from the grisly puddle at Mryio's feet.
Mar 20, 2018 4:35 pm
"Then it's decided." Mryio grabs the cloak left by Derek and places it over the mush that was once a head. He tucks it under the back, brings it up and ties it off around the chest to keep everything together and to limit the amount of blood that spills out.
OOC:
Can I pick this body up?
Mar 20, 2018 4:52 pm
HypCo says:
OOC:
Can I pick this body up?
OOC:
It's heavy as hell, but yes, you can manage to carry it
Mar 20, 2018 5:08 pm
With a heave and a ho, Mryio lifts the halfdragon's body trying to limit the amount of dragging. "Bughu, mind coming with me? I don't know what rests in the forest, I'd rather not deal with them with my hands full, and I've come to value your watchful eye."
Mar 20, 2018 5:51 pm
Bughu nods, and assist Mryio in carting the corpse.
Mar 21, 2018 1:55 am
It takes some time and effort, but you are able to carry the corpse out of town and toward the nearby woods. Halfway there, the makeshift sling that Mryio made from Derek's cloak opens and spills gore down the paladin's legs, staining his clothing a deep red.
OOC:
You successfully hide the body. What next? Bedtime or something else?
Mar 21, 2018 3:46 am
OOC:
I'll prestidigitation any blood spots.
Mar 22, 2018 3:40 am
"I'm sorry, everyone. I was sent here to help, and now because of me we got caught up in this mess and we haven't learned much more than before. Other than a name, I guess."
Mar 22, 2018 3:48 am
Bughu shakes his head. "We now know they have agents in many places, or they're following us somehow. That half-dragon wasn't part of the caravan, so he either was already here waiting for our arrival, or was otherwise nearby to be contacted so quickly after your encounter. That means we've stumbled upon some kind of network that the cult has laid in place."
Mar 22, 2018 3:53 am
"Don't worry yourself with things out of your control. I'm going to guess he wasn't some low-level grunt in the cult if he was allowed to place a hit, as simply as that. You sped forward his redemption or demise, in this case, his demise. You might have to hide in the back of the wagon tomorrow though, just to be safe."
Mar 23, 2018 9:08 pm
OOC:
Anything else tonight before we move on to morning?
Mar 26, 2018 11:32 pm
The next morning, you head down the stairs and see that the cultists are already down there. When they see Xalana come down the stairs, one of them knocks his bowl of porridge onto the floor. They are obviously quite shocked to see you alive.
Mar 27, 2018 1:31 am
What's the matter? Never seen a pretty woman in the morning before? Erich says cheerily as he drops into a chair nodding at whoever happens to be serving food with a wide smile.
Mar 27, 2018 1:51 am
Mryio scoops up the bowl and Prestidigitations the spilled mess. He places the bowl back on the cultist table with a smile "Don't worry yourself on spilled porridge; us caravaners need to look out for our own. I'll get you a new one, on me; you'll need your energy for our journey, you never know what is behind those corners."

Mryio places a gold coin on the table, whistles and points at the table and the broken bowl to a sever.
Mar 27, 2018 2:33 am
Bughu spares only a glance at the cultists, stepping past Mryio in all seriousness as he silently takes a seat next to Erich.
Mar 28, 2018 4:18 am
"Maybe it's the hair? I'm trying a different style this morning. It's a work in progress."
Mar 28, 2018 7:37 pm
The wool-hatted man narrows his eyes and then does something unexpected: nods at you in respect. He suddenly gets to his feet and sweeps out of the tavern.
Apr 2, 2018 5:18 pm
Bughu says to his table, "Now that they understand we have strength, will they be cautious, or reckless? We'll need to be very attentive, in any case."
Apr 2, 2018 11:19 pm
"I think they will stay out of our way or do what we've been doing and try to observe us from afar. Despite my thoughts though, we'd be foolish to let our guards down; I suggest a weapon or a friend close by in case they send any more 'kevins'."
Apr 3, 2018 2:02 pm
Part of me doesn't wonder if we'll be facing both. Surely that one recognizes the threat and won't move openly, but how tight is the control of the rest of the group? Some hot headed fool too willing to - ah - act out. Erich says, filling his mouth with a swig of water from his waterskin.
Apr 4, 2018 4:51 am
"Is the mission over then, if they’re on to us? Or do we keep doing this?"
Apr 4, 2018 5:35 am
Bughu says, "We keep going. We need to track where they are taking that cargo."
Apr 4, 2018 6:16 am
Mryio nods "Agreed. They might know we're on to them but they don't know why or what we are after. We carry on until we are fully blown and it is more detrimental to continue than it is to stop."
Apr 4, 2018 5:36 pm
The day passes by uneventfully as the caravan waits a bit longer to depart to give the horses a chance to become fully rested for the days ahead. The cultists don't do anything unusual, spending the day drinking, shopping, and relaxing at the inn.

The following day, you set out on the last leg of the journey to Waterdeep. It takes the entirety of the week as you are going at a more leisurely pace this far into the journey. Waterdeep, known as the jewel of the North, is a massive city located on the sword coast and has people from every background, race, and nationality you could possibly imagine. You are let in after a brief wagon inspection and are discharge from service as the most of the wagons are led to some warehouses near the marketplace. The one exception is the cultist's wagon, which continues on toward the northern end of the city.
Apr 4, 2018 11:51 pm
"Where are they going?" Bughu asks Ulyeltin. "Shouldn't the caravan stay together?"
Apr 5, 2018 12:10 am
"This is the end o' the line," he says, "Caravan was only staying together 'til we got to Waterdeep, or have you lost yer mind in the past two months?" he finishes with a hearty chuckle.
Apr 5, 2018 12:16 am
Bughu forces a smile. "Just so used to being around everybody."
Apr 5, 2018 8:27 pm
Ulyetin slaps Bughu on the shoulder hard enough to sting, "Well, if you ever find yourself around when I'm setting out another trip, then I'll let ya tag along again, how's that?"
Apr 5, 2018 8:44 pm
"Yes, sir," Bughu nods. "If this is the end of the road, who do we see to settle accounts?" He briefly makes eye contact with Xalana, tipping his head in the direction of the cultists' wagon.
Apr 5, 2018 8:51 pm
"Oh yeah, that'd be me, I guess," he says, shifting his weight from one foot to the other, then reaches into his own pack and pulls out some sacks of gold and tosses them to each of you, "Here you go." You get the impression that he'd been hoping you'd forget.
OOC:
Everyone's sack of gold has 40 gp in it except for Xalana's, which has 10 gp
Apr 5, 2018 9:01 pm
Bughu nods again, and thanks Ulyetin without reproach against the man's discomfort at parting with gold.

"Come on, let's head out," Bughu says to his companions, and tries to make his way northward to follow the cultists.
Apr 10, 2018 2:28 am
"Alright, but we, I have to be more careful this time."

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+5)

(3) + 5 = 8

Apr 10, 2018 12:55 pm
Erich says little as he disappears the gold pouch into his gear. As they walk away, he keeps his eyes roaming for more draconic threats.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+2)

(8) + 2 = 10

Apr 10, 2018 4:20 pm
Jon trails behind, distracted by the variety and authenticity of the Waterdeep street food vendors they pass on their way.
Apr 10, 2018 7:49 pm
You follow the cultist wagons north through the city and find that they stop near to the north gate and, leaving their wagon at a secured location next to an inn, head inside the building, presumably to relax.

Right now, the wagons are locked away in a guarded section of the inn's property and the cultists have gone inside. What do you do?
Apr 13, 2018 7:29 pm
"Do we keep staking out the wagon?"
Apr 13, 2018 7:46 pm
Bughu nods. "It's going to go somewhere. Let's head inside the inn and see what we can learn."
Apr 29, 2018 6:31 pm
You enter the inn and find it like most others that you've been to. The cultists have taken a seat in the corner and immediately notice you enter. The wool-capped man nods to you and raises his glass to acknowledge you.
Apr 29, 2018 6:42 pm
Bughu tips his head in a nod, and looks for a table big enough to accommodate the group.
Apr 29, 2018 6:46 pm
Most of the tables in the room are full at this point, but you do spot one near to the center of the room that is available.
Apr 30, 2018 1:48 pm
Erich follows along, smiling at the wool-capped man's acknowledgement. When they find their table he sits down and scans the room for someone that can set him up with ale and meat.
Apr 30, 2018 4:20 pm
Bughu takes a seat, and mindful that the tavern has ears, says, "We'll need to look for work, as well."
Apr 30, 2018 4:57 pm
As Bughu is speaking, a young man stops by your table, "What can I get for you today?" he asks with a pleasant smile. After taking the order, "And you also said you're looking for work? What kind of business are you in? Maybe I can point you in the right direction?"
Apr 30, 2018 5:39 pm
"We're sellswords, I suppose," says Bughu. "Just finished a job escorting a caravan here."
Apr 30, 2018 8:27 pm
"Well, there's plenty of that to be had around here," the lad says, nodding sagely, "If you'd like, you could probably get hired on as a guard with any of the wagons heading north OR south of here. They leave every day, pretty much!"

As you are speaking to the lad, one of the cultists stands and excuses himself from his table, making his way outside.
Apr 30, 2018 8:50 pm
"Where do we go to look for such jobs?" asks Bughu.
May 4, 2018 7:30 pm
"Old Hector is the one you'd want to speak to," the lad says, "He oversees the movement of caravans through the city."
May 4, 2018 8:13 pm
Bughu nods, and places a gold coin on the table before the lad. "Where is Old Hector, and can we speak to him now?"
May 7, 2018 8:23 pm
"Old Hector's probably at the warehouse by the gates," the lad says, scooping up the coin deftly and then pointing through the wall toward the north side of town, "Lots of work being done on the road so we can get connected with Neverwinter again, so he's usually there. Big place with a sign on it with a picture of a wagon."
May 7, 2018 8:29 pm
Bughu, puts down another coin. "Do you know if those fellows over there are signing up with Old Hector?" He only tips his eyebrows in the direction of the cultists' table.
May 8, 2018 6:20 pm
While Bughu chats with the server, I turn towards Elrich. "Care for a drink? You’re lookin’ thirsty."
May 8, 2018 9:07 pm
Aye, another pint would be delightful. The endless miles of overhills travel didn't leave much tongue wetting time. he says, happily.
May 10, 2018 8:56 pm
"I'm... not sure," the lad says, looking over to where the remaining cultists sit, "If they're heading out on a caravan, then probably."
May 10, 2018 9:17 pm
"Tell you what," Bughu says, "there's another coin in it for you if you can find out... without letting them know we were interested."
May 10, 2018 10:11 pm
I whistle to the nearest drink carrier and signal for a round to be brought to us. "May as well enjoy ourselves."
May 14, 2018 8:36 pm
The boy's eyes light up and he nods, "I'll let you know what I find out," he says, moving away without waiting for any more prompting.

A serving woman stops by the table, "What can I do for ya, miss?" she says to Xalana with a curtsy.
May 15, 2018 4:19 am
"A round of drinks would be great!"
May 15, 2018 1:14 pm
"Drinks it is, then!" she says, disappearing into the crowd and reappearing a few minutes later with a tray laden with drinks. She sets them down and you can smell a distinctly citrus smell, "House special, got some fruit in it, mango they call it," she says, "Enjoy. I gotta say, it's pretty good."

As you have a chance to sit back and relax for the first time in weeks, you feel the exhaustion wash over you. The battles, the long trip, and the constant vigilance have been non-stop for most of you. The smell of pipeweed, the taste of a sweet, pleasantly so, alcohol, and the sounds of low conversation and the strumming of a lute from the musician in the corner are very relaxing.
May 16, 2018 7:46 pm
I drink the delicious cocktail wistfully.
OOC:
I'm intolerant to mango IRL and it used to be my favorite fruit. SIGH.
May 19, 2018 12:17 pm
Erich sips the sweet drink and smiles, leaning back in his chair. This certainly is delicious. Been too long since we've had a chance to just sit comfortably and enjoy life a bit, eh? he says to Xalana, winking quickly.
OOC:
That sucks Moofs! I love mango.
May 22, 2018 8:25 pm
Some hours later, the young lad returns, holding out a hand expectantly toward Bughu and with a big smile on his face.
May 22, 2018 10:29 pm
"Well? Have you earned this coin?" says Bughu. He readies his end of the arrangement and looks expectantly at the lad, waiting for the information.
May 24, 2018 3:06 am
The lad nods, eyeing the coin in Bughu's hand hungrily, "Yes, I sure have," he says, "They were already signed up to be on the next caravan north to Carnath Roadhouse, the supply depot for the rebuilding of the road to Neverwinter."
May 24, 2018 3:18 am
Bughu plants the coin into the boy's hand. "Good work," he says, dismissing the lad to his duties. Bughu turns to the others and says, "I going to see Old Hector, then. We don't all have to go, if you want to keep an eye on our 'friends' over there."
May 24, 2018 7:02 pm
I'd just as soon stay and continue my drink friend. I'll be sure to save you some for when you return. Erich says, winking at Bughu, the affects of the alcohol already a bit evident in his mannerisms.
May 29, 2018 8:47 pm
Bughu leaves and heads over to the building that the lad indicated Old Hector works out of and is stopped at the door by a pair of armed guards, "Hold there," one of them says sternly, "What business do you have here?"
May 29, 2018 10:24 pm
Bughu states the truth, at least in his mind, "Looking for work, for me and my friends. Was told to see Old Hector about being caravan guards."
May 30, 2018 8:27 pm
The guard looks Bughu up and down appraisingly, "Well, leave your weapons here, then, and we'll see what Hector has to say about that."
May 30, 2018 8:57 pm
"Yes, sir," Bughu says, turning over his weapons to the guards.
May 30, 2018 10:23 pm
"So Erich... everyone’s got a story to tell. What’s yours, hmm? You got a special someone back home?"
May 31, 2018 5:08 pm
Hah, no. No one special Xalana. I've actually been living - ah - on my own for a few years. Trying to live up to my family name and learned a nasty lesson about throwing it around in the wrong company. he says, chuckling to himself around the rim of his cup. So what about you? A fair bit of magic about yourself, it seems?
Jun 4, 2018 8:31 pm
After taking his weapons, one of the guards leads you in. The inside of the warehouse is cramped, hot, and busy. A number of workers scamper about, moving boxes, labeling them, and consulting a number of ledgers. They barely spare a glance at Bughu as he is led through to the back.

In the back of the warehouse is a couple of rooms where a few men and women sit around, poring over even more ledgers and forms. You are led quickly through this section and to a door at the far back. The guard steps up and knocks loudly, "Got a fresh one for ya, Hec!" he says loudly.

"Alright, send him in," the response comes back a moment later, and you are let into Hector's office.

Hector's nickname "Old" is well-earned, as his face is lined and he wears spectacles on his face as he looks down at some papers. His skin is wrinkled and nearly brown from sun exposure. Despite his obvious age, his arms are still muscular from years of hard work, and he still has a full head of hair, grey now. He looks up as Bughu enters and waves for him to sit, mopping at his brow with a handkerchief, "Damned heat!" he grumbles, "Keep asking them to send a wizard out here to cast some cooling spells, but they claim to be too busy! Bah! Busy drinking and whoring, I think!"

With a sigh, he winks at Bughu, and then smiles, "Ahh, well, what can I do for you, my boy?"
Jun 15, 2018 7:32 pm
Bughu pauses to consider the proclivities of the wizardly lot, but soon replies, "Looking for work. Heard you run some caravans up north that could use some muscle. Me and four others just got done with a similar job coming here, so we's got some experience."
Jun 16, 2018 5:31 am
"So you've noticed, Erich! Yeah, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve. It's probably best that you don't know too much about what I was up to before all of this, but these days I like meeting new faces, learning as much about the world as I can, and use that knowledge to tell some good stories. Can't say I have a family name to live up to, but I definitely want to create a name for myself. It wouldn't be any use to me to be an unknown bard!"
Jun 17, 2018 2:36 am
Oh aye, it's a bit more than noticing sometimes. At least to me. Either way, making a name or defending one, we need a good stiff drink and a bit of trust in one another, yes? he says, offering his mug up for a clink.
Jul 5, 2018 3:58 pm
"Sounds fair to me. Although I'm still not sure what our next step should be. Hopefully Bughu has some ideas when he gets back."
Jul 13, 2018 9:57 pm
Hector looks over Bughu once more and nods approvingly, "You look like a strong enough fellow, and we can always use more guards. Got a supply caravan leaving in two days' time. Meet at the north gate before dawn in two days if you want the work. You'll be paid 20 gold pieces each for the trip, which will take a tenday if road conditions are good. You'll be headed to the Carnath Roadhouse," he explains and then waits to see if Bughu accepts the offer.
Jul 14, 2018 4:55 pm
Bughu nods. "We will be there," he says, falling into a disciplined stance. "Thank you, sir." When he is dismissed, Bughu collects his weapons and will rejoin the others at the tavern to share the news.
Jul 24, 2018 2:27 pm
The following morning, you meet up with the caravan at the north gate and find that the cultists are indeed among them, though they seem to be ignoring you for the most part.

The caravan consists of six wagons, drivers, teamsters, and some dozen guards (including yourselves), plus the leader, Ardred Briferhew, a man in his early thirties with thick black hair and a thick beard. He proves to be a good leader for the caravan and things go smoothly for the first part of the journey.
OOC:
I apologize for the slow posting in this game. I am struggling with this adventure for some reason. I don't know what it is, but it's having a hard time holding my interest at times.

Also, did you want to attempt to do anything on the journey?
Jul 24, 2018 4:31 pm
Bughu does little beyond his duty, maintaining a watch over the caravan's progress and keeping his eyes on the cultists. He lends his weight around camp to secure wagons, pitch tents, and guard the perimeter.
OOC:
No need to apologize to me. I know that these published adventures weren't written for the play-by-post format, and sometimes the little things that hold interest get lost in the slow process. I'll be here for this, through thick and thin.
CancerMan sent a note to Naatkinson
Jul 24, 2018 5:14 pm
Erich travels easily, helping where it makes sense for him to help. He also spends a fair amount of time with Xalana, provided she'll continue chatting with him as they travel, hopefully talking about magic and its many forms.
Jul 25, 2018 9:57 pm
Naatkinson says:
OOC:
I apologize for the slow posting in this game. I am struggling with this adventure for some reason. I don't know what it is, but it's having a hard time holding my interest at times.
OOC:
One thing that would be super helpful is occasional recaps of where we are and what we're doing, especially when there's a posting gap of a few days -- sometimes it's really hard to go back and read & contextualize enough old posts to get a solid sense of where I am.
Jul 26, 2018 3:09 am
"...And that's why I prefer stews on long trips, although any meal with some hot tea and good company can't be beat! Hey, either of you travel this far north before?"
Jul 26, 2018 2:17 pm
OOC:
Quick recap: You were accompanying a merchant caravan when you came upon the town of greenest in flames. You entered the town to find it overrun with cultists and a dragon flying above. You were able to assist the town with fighting off the cultists.

The next few days consisted of rescuing a captured monk name Leosin from the cultist's camp as well as exploring the caves at the camp where you found a dragon hatchery and discovered that the cult is sending their stolen treasure north somewhere.

Upon Leosin's request, you headed to the town of Elturel and met with a man named Frume, who sent you on a mission to follow the cultists and see where they were taking their ill-gotten goods. You were able to sign on as guards on the same caravan as the cultists and traveled with them to Waterdeep.

Your ultimate goal is to find out where they are taking their treasure and why, so you're signing on with a caravan heading north from Waterdeep to the Carnath Roadhouse, which is the same place that the cult is headed to with their treasures.
Jul 27, 2018 3:51 pm
Sure! I spent a number of years hiding out in the High Forest, but never went much beyond there. Grandmother had stories about heading up past the Spine of the World though, hunting some ancient white dragon. Never knew how much was real and how much wasn't. he said, smiling at Xalana's impeccable food choice logic.
Jul 31, 2018 3:54 pm
On the seventh day out, you crest a hill and come into sight of the fabled Mere of Dead Men, a chill tangle of trees, brush, boggy ground, standing water, and cat-tails that stretches to the west as far as the eye can see. Though it looks like it's just a large swamp, it gives you goosebumps to be so close. Rumors of horrible monsters, ghosts, and demons flit about the camp as you sit about the campfire that night.

The next few days are tense as you travel along the road, always within site of the Mere. Three tense days later, you arrive at the Carnath Roadhouse. Ahead of you looms a walled outpost, outside of which you can see a number of wagons already there. As you draw nearer, you can hear voices from inside the compound.

You are stopped just short of the compound and a bored-looking man steps out, "Ardred, you know the drill," the man says to the leader of the caravan.

Ardred nods and begins directing the wagons to enter two at a time.

You are in for quite the wait... Is there anything you'd like to do?
Jul 31, 2018 4:22 pm
Bughu asks the nearest driver, "What's the procedure here?"
Aug 3, 2018 8:29 pm
The drivers leans back in his seat to rest a bit, "Well, we wait here for our turn to get unloaded," he says, "Then they'll take you in, unload your wagon in the warehouse. Once all the wagons are done and all the goods are counted up, we get to relax and eat some real food."
Aug 3, 2018 8:50 pm
Bughu nods. "Finally," he says, keeping up the basic pretense of a weary traveler. He looks over at the cultists' wagon to keep an eye on what happens to their cargo.
Aug 14, 2018 11:10 pm
After several hours of tedious waiting, you are eventually led into the roadhouse. The open courtyard is full of people; some carrying supplies, others moving about with lists in their hands. From the entrance, there are a number of small cabins that line the inner wall on the south and east. To the north are a stable as well as the storage room. Two staircases lead up, one to an additional set of cabins atop the south and east walls and another into a room atop the store room.

You are tasked with helping to unload the goods, which takes quite some time. The goods, such as food, are taken into the store room, while the rest is taken to various storage area on the walls. While in the store room, you see a locked door on the north wall that no one seems to bother with while you are around.

By the time everything is unloaded, you are exhausted, sweaty, and ready to rest. You are led to a cabin on the south wall to share amongst your group and then left to your own devices.

"If you want some food, head up them stairs above the storeroom and you'll find the kitchens. They should still have something left for you," Ardred says as he leaves you to your business at the door of your cabin.
Aug 15, 2018 6:40 pm
"Anyone want anything?" Bughu asks of the party, preparing to head to the kitchen to refuel.
Aug 16, 2018 11:40 pm
"Some rolls, sliced meat, a boiled egg or two, and some apple brandy. If they have it; don't trouble yourself!"
Aug 17, 2018 5:01 am
"A nice stew. Some mead. Maybe nuts to snack on for later? Bread and butter are always nice as well."
Aug 17, 2018 11:59 pm
Bughu makes his way to the kitchens to get some food for himself and his companions. He climbs the stairs, which creak loudly with every step but don't seem to be in danger of collapsing, and enters the dining area to find that aside from one other man in a chef's hat and greasy apron, he's alone in the room.

The man doesn't appear to have noticed Bughu at first as he wanders about, taking care of various foodstuffs about the kitchen and muttering to himself, " ...don’t get no sleep from all the critters in the floors banging and knocking and hissing and whispering at all hours..."
Aug 18, 2018 1:25 am
Bughu waits for a moment to see if the man takes notice, before he finally asks, "You got a rat problem?"
Aug 18, 2018 5:32 pm
I'd be up for helping to take care of a rat problem. Gods know that I can't sleep properly if there's critter sounds. he says, smiling politely.
Aug 19, 2018 2:39 am
"Maybe I should have requested tea. Ah well, it can wait until later."
Aug 20, 2018 7:51 pm
The man looks surprised by Bughu's question, turning to face him and raising a metal ladle threateningly, "Ah damn, don't be scarin' me like that!" he says, lowering the ladle before turning back to his work, "But yeah, seem to have a bit of a problem. Damn rats keep stirrin' in the night, keepin' me up. Gon' die o' sleep derpivration any day now!"
Aug 20, 2018 8:03 pm
Bughu says, "Doesn't this place have an exterminator? Seems like it'd be something your boss should look into, on account of how much cargo this facility stores."
Aug 30, 2018 8:55 pm
The man shakes his head, "No, dammit, says we're too busy to worry 'bout rats as long as they ain't hurtin' the goods..." he replies angrily, "Sure 'nough, they don't seem to be eating any food that we can see! Weird little bastards, they are..."
Aug 31, 2018 1:08 am
"Huh. Okay, well if there's still some food," says Bughu, before proceeding with the orders as best he can remember.

Once he puts forth the list of meals, Bughu says, "Want me to look into it? You'd have to point me where they're fussing about."

Rolls

Intelligence, can he remember? - (1d20-1)

(19) - 1 = 18

Aug 31, 2018 7:00 pm
Bughu is able to remember all of the requests that the others made and keeps the cook company while he prepares the food. The man introduces himself, eventually, as Gristle Pete.

"Well, It'd be real good if the noises would stop," Pete says, nodding, "Yeah, I think I'd like that. If you can get it done, I think I can get you and yer friends some special treats every once in a while."

He indicates that he had been hearing it from the storeroom downstairs, which is always locked.
Aug 31, 2018 7:24 pm
Bughu nods. "You got the key, right?"
Aug 31, 2018 8:22 pm
Pete shakes his head, "Nah, Bog Luck carries that around with him," he says, "Big ol' half-orc with a bad temper. Keeps the peace around here, though!"
Aug 31, 2018 8:28 pm
Bughu gathers up the plates with the help of Erich. "All right. We'll go talk to him." He gives his leave and returns to the party with their meals, as well as the news of rat-catching in the storeroom.

"Might give us a chance to poke around a bit, and if nothing else we might get a friend on the inside that can provide intelligence,"
he says as a reason to go on this side job. With a shrug, Bughu adds, "Or an extra meal."
Sep 4, 2018 3:14 pm
OOC:
How do you want to approach this locked store-room?
Sep 4, 2018 4:15 pm
"We should talk to this Bog Luck," Bughu suggests. "See if he can't be convinced to let us have a look."
Sep 5, 2018 2:11 am
"I mean, I can be pretty convincing. Seems like he'd want us to take care of the problem tho, doncha think?"
Sep 5, 2018 5:44 am
Bughu nods. "One would think."
Sep 6, 2018 1:51 pm
Let's find him and talk, I can back ya up Xalana. It will feel good to do something other than ride on a damnable wagon again. Erich says, stretching his arms high above his head before quickly dropping them once more, hurrying to hide the light scales at his wrist.
Sep 6, 2018 6:07 pm
It's not hard to find Bog Luck's room. A moment after knocking on the door, it opens a couple of inches. Just inside stands a tall half-orc in plain, loose-fitting clothing. He looks you all up and down before saying anything "What do you need?"
Sep 6, 2018 6:09 pm
Bughu stands behind the others, allowing them to respond.
Sep 11, 2018 4:36 am
"Hello, there! By any chance are you Bog Luck? I'm running an errand for my dear friend Gristle Pete, but in order to help out I'll need to borrow the key to the store room. He said I should speak with you about it." Xalana gives him her winningest smile.

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+7)

(10) + 7 = 17

Sep 11, 2018 8:24 pm
Bog Luck raises an eyebrow, "Yeah, that's me," he says slowly, "Can't give you the key, though. Security issues, you understand. Tell me what's the problem and I'll get it taken care of."
Sep 17, 2018 8:17 pm
Bog Luck stands in the doorway for a moment, "Anything else I can help with?" he asks, appearing slightly annoyed.
Sep 17, 2018 8:23 pm
"Rats in the storage," says Bughu to clarify the problem. "We need to make sure our cargo is safe. Can't work on assumption, you know?"
Sep 19, 2018 3:20 pm
Bog Luck sighs, "Storage is off limits," he says to clarify his answer, "I'll make sure the cargo is okay."
Sep 19, 2018 5:07 pm
Bughu nods. "What if you accompany us?" he asks, seeing if a compromise could be reached.
Sep 20, 2018 3:09 pm
Looking truly annoyed now, Bog Luck shakes his head, "No. You ain't goin' in there!" he says, voice rising slightly.
Sep 20, 2018 3:49 pm
Eh, no skin off my teeth man. We just figured you'd appreciate a low-cost approach to getting rid of the pest problem. We just figured you'd want a low-cost approach to keep your stuff unmolested and your staff unbothered by pests. I figure we can go find another person more willing to accept some help guys, let's leave Mr. Luck here to his own devices. No sense sticking around where we aren't welcome. Erich says, smiling at the half-orc before turning his back and starting to walk off slowly.
Sep 20, 2018 4:31 pm
Bughu studies the half-orc, wondering why Bog Luck is so resistant to the idea of free help.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Sep 20, 2018 4:43 pm
Bughu doesn't detect any sort of deceit from Bog Luck.
Sep 20, 2018 4:46 pm
Bughu shrugs and follows Erich, making a note to relay their condolences to Pete.
Sep 20, 2018 5:01 pm
OOC:
Anyone else suspicious can also roll Insight
Sep 20, 2018 5:19 pm
OOC:
Insight?

Rolls

Hmmm, insight - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Sep 20, 2018 5:20 pm
OOC:
Thank god someone beat me on this... I did not roll well
Erich gets the feeling that Bog Luck is hiding something.
Sep 21, 2018 1:48 am
As Erich walks away, that tickling little feeling in the back of his head starts to flare up. He's not coming fully clean. Push him. Now.

On second thought, Bog Luck, how about you tell me why you won't accept our help. Right. Now.
OOC:
Whelp. That figures. Stupid dice. :)
Last edited September 21, 2018 1:49 am

Rolls

Intimidation - (1d20+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Sep 24, 2018 5:22 pm
"No, I don't think I will," he snarls back, "I'm in charge here, not you. I make the rules, so back off."
Sep 24, 2018 5:26 pm
Bughu shrugs and says to the party, "Maybe he's too scared to go in. We had a guy like that in the company. Loud and angry, but deep down he was just afraid. Come on." He turns to leave.
Sep 24, 2018 5:54 pm
Bog Luck growls at Bughu's comment, showing sharp teeth as his lips pull back in a snarl, but he doesn't lash out, though he looks like he very much wants to.
Sep 26, 2018 3:48 pm
Walking away to reconvene out of earshot, Bughu asks, "You think he's hiding something?"
Sep 27, 2018 1:47 am
Absolutely. I've never seen someone so nervous about - well - about something. Like I said, though, not much to do at this point. Save for find another avenue for success. Erich says, a smile breaking out over his face thinking of the possibilities.
Sep 27, 2018 2:28 am
"I could... convince him. Magically, I mean. That didn't go so well last time though."
Sep 29, 2018 12:02 am
Bughu considers. "I don't know. If it fails, will he be able to peg it on us? We might get kicked out and not able to follow the cult wagon," he says. "It does make me wonder though. Maybe we see if we can sneak in?"
Oct 1, 2018 12:38 pm
Perhaps if you could do it from a place where you can spot him but he may not be aware you are there? Or do you need to be right up in his face for it to work? I think it's worth it regardless, though. Erich says, scratching his jaw.
Oct 2, 2018 4:05 pm
OOC:
Sneak into room or charm the guy into letting you in?
Oct 6, 2018 4:43 am
I nod Erich, and walk back towards Bog Luck. "Listen, I know you don't like us much. But I'd suggest you trust us, and do everything you can to help us investigate the storage room until I'm satisfied that we've left no stone unturned. That's all we want to do. We're not looking to get you into trouble. How's that sound?"
OOC:
Casting Suggestion. WIS Saving throw of 13.
Last edited November 3, 2018 2:53 am
Oct 6, 2018 10:52 pm
Bog Luck looks just about furious as you begin speaking, but he's calmed down by the end of it and looks thoughtful, "I suppose it couldn't hurt, right?"

With that, he leads you over to the warehouse, pulling out his ring of keys as he goes. Opening the door, he waves for you to enter, "Go ahead and take a look. Save us a bit of money for exterminators, right?"

Entering, you see that the large room is packed with boxes all over. Many labeled, but some are not. On the north wall is another locked door.
Oct 6, 2018 11:05 pm
Bughu nods respectfully and begins to investigate the room. He tries to figure out where the kitchen is in relation to this area and see if it might provide a clue as to the source of the noises.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20-1)

(16) - 1 = 15

Oct 8, 2018 11:14 pm
Erich gives him a small nod as the group enters the room.
Oct 8, 2018 11:51 pm
As Bughu begins to try to piece together anything relating to the sounds reaching the kitchen directly above, the door on the north wall opens and several lizardfolk step out. They stop when they see you and look quite surprised. The front one hisses a command and they all draw weapons and begin advancing on you menacingly.
OOC:
There are 7 lizardfolk entering the room that you can see and you've got initiative. They are all within reach with one move.
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room
North door to outside
Oct 9, 2018 12:13 am
"Big rats," Bughu growls, drawing his hand crossbow and firing two quick bolts in rapid succession at the lead lizardfolk. He tries to position himself in the middle of the access way so that he can intercept any of the lizardfolk before they reach his companions.
[ +- ] [url=https://gamersplane.com/characters/dnd5/3430/
Last edited October 9, 2018 12:16 am

Rolls

Hand Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

1d20+9 : (13) + 9 = 22

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

Bonus Action Crossbow Expert, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

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

1d6+4 : (5) + 4 = 9

Battle Maneuver Precision Attack modifier to Bonus Action Attack roll - (1d8)

(7) = 7

Oct 9, 2018 4:21 pm
Erich smiles and raises one hand up into the air as six tiny flaming rocks swirl into existence around him. Pushing two hands forward, a pair of them streak out towards the main body of the lizardfolk force.

Casting Melf's minute meteors. Launching two meteors towards the lizardfolk, aiming to hit as many as possible. DC 14 Dex save for half damage.
1st 4/4 | 2nd 3/3 | 3rd 1/2
38/38 HP | 16 AC | Inspiration 0 | 5/5 SP
Meteors: 4/6 Remaining
Last edited October 9, 2018 4:22 pm

Rolls

Meteor 1 (1s count as 2s because of Elemental Adept) - (2d6)

(21) = 3

Meteor 2 (1s count as 2s because of Elemental Adept) - (2d6)

(36) = 9

Oct 9, 2018 6:28 pm
Round One: Players
Bughu fires two bolts from his crossbow, which slam into the chest of the front lizard, staggering him back a couple of steps. The tough creature stays on its feet, growling at Bughu.

It's growl is cut short as two small meteors slam into it, exploding and sending it to the ground, dead. The explosions scorch two of the other creatures, but they manage to stay up.
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room (filled with lizardfolk)
North door to outside
OOC:
Remaining: Jon, Xalana, Mryio (?)
Oct 10, 2018 11:44 pm
There it is, Jon thinks, that familiar stomachache that always comes right on when life and death are on the line. At this point in his career as a hero, he thinks of it as an old friend. Falling back to brace himself on one knee, he draws his shortbow and fires at one of the wounded lizardmen.

Rolls

Shortbow attack vs wounded lizardman - (1d20+3, 1d6+1)

1d20+3 : (12) + 3 = 15

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

Oct 12, 2018 4:02 am
"You got this, Bughu!" I back up, away from the lizardfolk and keep an eye out for my friends to make sure they're ok. I put my arms out in front of me, waiting and watching in case anything comes towards me.
OOC:
Dodge action. Giving Bughu inspiration. Also waiting to Cutting Words anyone who looks like they're about to land a blow on one of her peeps.
Last edited November 3, 2018 2:54 am
Oct 13, 2018 9:26 pm
Round One: Xalana, Jon
Jon's arrow slices through the hide of one of the lizardfolk (#2) and strikes it in the shoulder.

Xalana prepares herself for attack while bolstering Bughu.
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room (filled with lizardfolk)
North door to outside
Oct 13, 2018 9:37 pm
Round One: Lizardfolk
Three of the lizardfolk rush forward, falling over Jon and Bughu, smashing at them with clubs and bashing them with spiked shields. Jon is nearly struck by a club, but a well-timed warning by Xalana gets him out of harm's way.

Three of the lizards stand back and throw javelins at the party.

One javelin strikes Xalana despite her defensive stance, slicing her arm up (21 vs AC. Damage: 3)

A javelin also strikes Erich, grazing his hip as it flies by (19 vs AC. Damage 5)
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room (filled with lizardfolk)
North door to outside
OOC:
Your turn!
Oct 14, 2018 6:36 am
Bughu twists, using his momentum to reload his hand crossbow and bring the weapon about for a firing angle. He targets Lizardfolk2 first before turning any attention to Lizardfolk3.
OOC:
I totally forgot I was level 5 and had extra attack.
[ +- ] [url=https://gamersplane.com/characters/dnd5/3430/

Rolls

Hand Crossbow vs Lizardfolk2, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

1d20+9 : (9) + 9 = 18

1d6+4 : (5) + 4 = 9

Extra Attack Hand Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

1d20+9 : (14) + 9 = 23

1d6+4 : (5) + 4 = 9

Bonus Action Hand Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

1d20+9 : (18) + 9 = 27

1d6+4 : (6) + 4 = 10

Oct 14, 2018 4:25 pm
Round Two: Bughu
Bughu fires a bolt at L2, catching it in the throat. It falls backwards, grasping at its torn throat as it dies on the ground.

He reloads and quickly fires two bolts at L3. The first one catches it in the stomach and the next in the heart.
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room (filled with lizardfolk)
North door to outside
OOC:
Remaining: Jon, Xalana, Erich
Oct 14, 2018 7:04 pm
Erich laughs quietly to himself as he feels searing magic well up inside of him. His eyes flicker as two more meteors streak outwards to a spot just behind the lizardfolk, hoping to catch as many as he can. At the same time, his hands

Using Bonus Action to send 2 more of Melf's minute meteors towards the remaining lizards DC 14 Dex save for half damage. Action to cast scorching ray as a 3rd level spell. 1 beam for each of the still standing enemies. All damage is fire, so all 1s are 2s. :)
1st 4/4 | 2nd 3/3 | 3rd 0/2
38/38 HP | 16 AC | Inspiration 0 | 5/5 SP
Meteors: 4/6 Remaining

Rolls

Meteor 1 - (2d6)

(22) = 4

Meteor 2 - (2d6)

(35) = 8

Ray 1 - (2d6)

(44) = 8

Ray 2 - (2d6)

(61) = 7

Ray 3 - (2d6)

(33) = 6

Ray 4 - (2d6)

(32) = 5

Ray Attack 1 (duh) - (1d20+6)

(4) + 6 = 10

Ray Attack 2 (duh) - (1d20+6)

(2) + 6 = 8

Ray Attack 3 (duh) - (1d20+6)

(20) + 6 = 26

Ray Attack 4 (duh) - (1d20+6)

(17) + 6 = 23

Ray 3 Crit - (2d6)

(41) = 5

Oct 14, 2018 7:21 pm
Round Two: Erich
Erich's small meteors smash into the group of javelin-throwers, sending flames and sparks spraying across their bodies.

Following the assault of the meteors, he flings several rays of flame at the lizards. Two of them avoid the beams of fire, but two javelin-throwers take the hits.
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room (filled with lizardfolk)
North door to outside
OOC:
Remaining: Jon, Xalana
Oct 15, 2018 11:07 pm
Jon crabwalks over to the nearest crate for cover and fires another arrow at the most injured-looking lizardman among the javelin throwers.

Rolls

Shortbow attack vs wounded lizardman - (1d20+3, 1d6+1)

1d20+3 : (18) + 3 = 21

1d6+1 : (6) + 1 = 7

Oct 15, 2018 11:21 pm
Round Two: Jon
As Jon tries to get away from the enemy that's engaged with him, the lizardman in front of him lashes out with his club. Jon rolls over the crate and falls to the ground on the other side, nimbly avoiding the blow before sending an arrow into L6 and striking it in the stomach, sending it down to the ground.
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room (filled with lizardfolk)
North door to outside
OOC:
Remaining: Xalana
Oct 17, 2018 3:34 pm
OOC:
Bump for Xalana!
Oct 18, 2018 4:06 am
I grab the nearest barrel and attempt to throw it at the lizard who is shooting arrows at me. Immediately after throwing it, I dive for cover.
Last edited November 3, 2018 2:52 am

Rolls

Dex check? - (1d20+3)

(6) + 3 = 9

Stealth - (1d20+5)

(19) + 5 = 24

Oct 22, 2018 9:43 pm
Round Two: Xalana
Xalana tosses a small barrel at the lizardfolk and uses the distraction to hide behind some crates on the side of the room.
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room (filled with lizardfolk)
North door to outside
Oct 22, 2018 9:50 pm
Round Two: Lizardfolk
Despite being outnumbered now, the lizardfolk keep fighting, swinging their clubs, biting, and trying to smash you with their spiked shields. Those who were throwing javelins now move forward to engage.

L4 smacks Bughu with its shield, driving its spikes into his side (22 vs AC. Damage: 7)

L5 advances on Jon and swings its club and then tries to bite the diminutive fighter. Both of its attacks connect (22 and 17 vs AC. Damage: 7 and 3)

L7 rushes the spellcaster, hoping to be rid of the destructive fireballs that he's flinging. It hits him once in the side (17 vs AC. Damage: 4).
OOC:
Erich: DC 10 Con Save or lose concentration
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room (filled with lizardfolk)
North door to outside
OOC:
Your turn!
Oct 22, 2018 10:29 pm
Bughu almost considers impaling himself onto the spiked shield to keep it from being used again, but still tries to free his companions from their own battles. He turns to fire upon Lizardfolk7, mindful to switch targets to Lizardfolk5 should the opportunity arise.
OOC:
Using Xalana's inspiration to add a d8 to the first roll!
[ +- ] [url=https://gamersplane.com/characters/dnd5/3430/
Last edited October 22, 2018 10:30 pm

Rolls

Hand Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

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

1d6+4 : (6) + 4 = 10

Extra Attack Hand Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

1d20+9 : (2) + 9 = 11

1d6+4 : (3) + 4 = 7

Bonus Action Hand Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

1d20+9 : (2) + 9 = 11

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

Bardic Inspiration - (1d8)

(7) = 7

Oct 24, 2018 9:07 pm
OOC:
Bump for Jon, Erich, Xalana
Oct 25, 2018 4:43 pm
OOC:
Con save.

Rolls

Concentration (CON save) - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

Oct 25, 2018 5:02 pm
Erich recoils slightly as he gets attacked by the lizard. Shaking his head, he keeps his focus on the tiny meteors swirling around his head. His fingers start to move, when the lizard in front of him drops from Bughu's shot, giving him a clear picture of the remaining lizards. He flicks his hands apart, sending a meteor to crash just behind each of the remaining combatants, trying to keep the explosions from hitting his compatriots.

Using Bonus Action to send 2 more of Melf's minute meteors towards the remaining lizards DC 14 Dex save for half damage. Action to cast scorching ray as a 2nd level spell. 2 beams for Lizard4, 1 beam for Lizard5. All damage is fire, so all 1s are 2s. :)
1st 4/4 | 2nd 2/3 | 3rd 0/2
34/38 HP | 16 AC | Inspiration 0 | 5/5 SP
Meteors: 0/6 Remaining

Rolls

Lizard4 Meteor - (2d6)

(32) = 5

Lizard5 Meteor - (2d6)

(35) = 8

Lizard4 Beams - (1d20+6, 2d6, 1d20+6, 2d6)

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

2d6 : (13) = 4

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

2d6 : (14) = 5

Lizard5 Beam - (1d20+6, 2d6)

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

2d6 : (15) = 6

Oct 26, 2018 4:46 am
Seeing the tide turning in their favor, I stand from my hiding spot, grab my rapier and rush towards the closest lizard!
Last edited November 3, 2018 2:53 am

Rolls

Rapier - (1d20+5, 1d8+3)

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

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

Oct 26, 2018 4:22 pm
Round Three: Bughu, Xalana, Erich
Bughu's first shot strikes L7 in the neck. It staggers back and falls dead to the ground

Erich's final meteors explode right behind the remaining lizardmen, but they are able to avoid most of the damage from the attacks. The follow-up rays of flame burn into L4 and he hisses in pain as his flesh is burned. The final ray misses L5, who ducks out of the way just in time.

Xalana comes rushing out from behind some barrels and stabs L5 in the back.
OOC:
Xalana's attack bonus should be +6 (+3 from Dex, +3 from Proficiency)
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Assorted crates, barrels, and boxes scattered about
North door to locked room (filled with lizardfolk)
North door to outside
Oct 26, 2018 4:31 pm
OOC:
Going to finish this here
In just a few more moments, you are able to finish the rest of the lizardfolk. The room is silent but for your heavy breathing. What do you do now?
Oct 26, 2018 4:54 pm
Bughu quickly moves to the door in the north wall and braces himself against the frame. He sights his crossbow through and takes a look to see what's on the other side, and if any movement can be noticed.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(8) + 4 = 12

Oct 26, 2018 6:11 pm
Erich bends down and checks over the body of the lizard in front of him, looking for anything that could be of use in identifying them or increasing Erich's own personal wealth.

Rolls

Investigation (+3 if you prefer perception for whatever reason) - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Oct 26, 2018 11:35 pm
Aside from their weapons and shields, the lizardfolk don't carry anything of real worth.

Within the room on the north, you see an open trapdoor in the southeastern corner. No more lizaardfolk present themselves within the room.
Oct 27, 2018 12:35 am
"Makes sense, now," says Bughu. "Gristle Pete hears noises in here, but the food's untouched. He probably heard these lizards coming and going from that trapdoor. I figure Bog Luck's in on this, too; why else would he be trying to keep his own employees out?

"So, what were they after? What's in this room? Erich, Xalana, see if you can dig into some of these crates. I'm going to see where that trapdoor leads."
Oct 27, 2018 2:11 am
As Bughu peers into the trapdoor, he sees a tunnel that extends farther than he can see.
Oct 27, 2018 1:40 pm
I'd be surprised if he isn't in on it in some way. Either directing it or he's being blackmailed into it. Erich says, nodding to Xalana. Let's get to those crates.
Oct 29, 2018 6:20 pm
"Make it quick," Bughu says to his companions. "I'll keep watch on this tunnel in case more of those lizards come through."
Oct 29, 2018 7:46 pm
Looking through the room, you find a large amount of gold and personal items in several chests. You'd guess that these belong to the workers here and are kept for safekeeping, as the sleeping rooms had no locks.

The crates in here are largely building supplies for the road work, but you do find one of the chests that the cultists were hauling, which is full of coins and other high-value items.
Oct 29, 2018 8:22 pm
Bughu considers the findings. "What do you think? You think these lizards are working for the cult?"
Oct 30, 2018 5:03 pm
"They would have to be, right? Either being paid to help or...?"
Oct 30, 2018 5:52 pm
Bughu nods. "We'll find more answers down this tunnel," he says, and drops through the trap door.
Nov 1, 2018 1:40 pm
Erich sticks close to Bughu and drops through after him, not wanting to be the tail-end of the group.
Nov 1, 2018 6:10 pm
I wait for everyone else to head in before following.
Last edited November 3, 2018 2:52 am
Nov 1, 2018 8:10 pm
You travel for a while and eventually come to an exit. Around you is all marshland. You can hear the sounds of buzzing insects and other animals in the distance. The signs of recent passage are quite clear and the footsteps are easy to see in the muddy ground.
Nov 1, 2018 8:48 pm
"Out of the city?" says Bughu. "No wonder those cultists didn't seem that interested in their wagon once we got to Waterdeep."

He looks back to the others as he checks his weapons. "Ready to move on? We'll follow these tracks as far as we can. Be on the lookout for more lizards and cultists." Bughu scouts ahead to set the trail.

Rolls

Perception, Stealth - (1d20+4, 1d20+7)

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

1d20+7 : (17) + 7 = 24

Nov 2, 2018 10:44 pm
OOC:
When do you plan on sleeping? It was already fairly late when you found the tunnel, so it's probably close to midnight by now
Nov 2, 2018 11:03 pm
OOC:
How far are we from the city? Maybe we can find a spot to camp off the trail if it seems like we're reasonably alone. I just don't want to be too close to the warehouse for whenever the cultists decide to investigate.
Nov 2, 2018 11:04 pm
By the time you exit the tunnel, you estimate you're a mile or more from the roadhouse
Nov 2, 2018 11:10 pm
Bughu says, "Let's camp somewhere near this trail." He tries to look for a spot that overlooks the path, while remaining hidden from casual observation.
Nov 3, 2018 2:08 am
It has been a proper long time since I've camped in the woods. The caravan doesn't count, whatsoever. Entirely too many people to keep things peaceful at night. Erich said, a little lost in memory for his time alone in the woods. I'll take a middle watch tonight, may as well use my eyesight where it makes sense! he says, with a grin.
Nov 3, 2018 2:51 am
I search for any small creatures in the area.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Nov 5, 2018 4:54 pm
Xalana is unable to find any small animals aside from a few snakes that slither through the marsh. The night passes by uneventfully and you wake in the morning with a number of insect bites, but otherwise unharmed.

Continuing your journey, the path remains clear for the next seven miles of sludgy ground until you come across a campsite. It isn't much of a camp, really - just a clearing that's slightly drier than the muck you've been wading through-but four wicker lean-tos and a stone platform (for lighting a fire above the soggy ground) command attention in this wilderness. Three dugout canoes are drawn up near one of the lean-tos.
[ +- ] Campsite
Leema, you wake after what feels like a long time, a massive headache emanating from a sizable lump on the side of your head. Above you is the roof of a wicker lean-to and below is a mat of something scratchy. You realize that you don't see your weapons and armor.

Naatkinson sent a note to boufan
Nov 5, 2018 5:18 pm
Bughu says, "Let's check it out. If this is where the lizards camped, they must have used those boats to cross the water. Maybe we'll find some clue about where they came from." He pads forward, light crossbow ready against his shoulder, as he keeps his eyes open for anyone that might still occupy the camp.

Rolls

Stealth, Perception - (1d20+7, 1d20+4)

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

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

Nov 5, 2018 9:01 pm
Leema slowly sits up, grimacing from the pain radiating through her head. "Once again Molack's intel ends up with me getting knocked unconscious" she murmurs, inspecting her new found accommodations. Thinking she might be able to pry her way out of the room, her hand instinctively moves towards the hilt of her dagger only to find that her weapons have been taken.

"Molack!!"

Deciding that any rash action at this point will only make things worse, she sits quietly and listens for any movement or conversation.
Last edited November 6, 2018 11:56 am

Rolls

Perception maybe? - (1d20+3)

(20) + 3 = 23

Nov 6, 2018 5:42 am
"Be careful. Let's make sure there aren't any nasty surprises in store." I start checking the ground for any traps.

Rolls

Perception? - (1d20+5)

(19) + 5 = 24

Nov 7, 2018 12:21 am
From the looks of it, you'd guess that the the camp is still being used, but the occupants are just not here at the moment.

Xalana is not able to find any traps around the camp.

Leema, you hear footsteps and talking outside. The voices sound human and speak in common, which is a nice change over the draconic that the lizardfolk speak.
Nov 7, 2018 3:15 am
"All clear. No traps here. One less thing to worry about."
Nov 7, 2018 5:03 am
Bughu approaches closer to investigate, mindful of blind spots that might house an ambush. He steps into the camp proper, ready to clear the area if needed.
Nov 7, 2018 8:35 pm
Unsure of who the new voices belong to Leema decides not to call out directly to the strangers but still attemtps to draw their attention.

*cough* *cough*
Nov 7, 2018 8:46 pm
Bughu holds a hand up to his party, then points in the direction of the noise. His crossbow leading the way, he investigates by stepping around the lean-to to assess the occupant.
Nov 7, 2018 9:12 pm
As Bughu peers into the lean-to, he sees a woman on the ground in basic clothing and a nasty red lump on the side of her head. A small amount of crusted blood mars her face below the painful-looking wound.
Nov 7, 2018 10:49 pm
Bughu levels his crossbow upon Leema, assessing whether or not she poses a threat to the party. He'd rather secure the woman and let his companions verify her innocence before lowering his guard.
Nov 7, 2018 11:15 pm
The stranger's weapon does little to convince Leema that she will soon be free from her makeshift cell.

"You working with those creatures?" she asks, slowly slumping back away.
Nov 10, 2018 7:03 pm
Bughu ignores the question, instead asking his own. "Who are you?"
Nov 10, 2018 7:39 pm
Finding her back against the far wall Leema slides down into a seated position and stares blankly at the man.

"Rask. Corporal. 8675309" she says plainly and in a monotone voice.
Nov 10, 2018 8:15 pm
Bughu lowers his crossbow, and gives a signal for the others to approach the camp. "Khatagi. Specialist. What happened here, Corporal?"
Nov 10, 2018 8:55 pm
Seeing the crossbow lower, Leema slowly comes to her feet and holds her hands up as a sign of non-aggression.

"A few of us were sent ahead to scout for what's left of our battalion. Didn't get too far before we were ambushed."

She winces, her hand moving to the back of her head to check on he wound.

"I don't remember quite what happened - but I do know it was bad. No clue how I ended up in this thing, but certainly wouldn't mind being let out."
Nov 10, 2018 9:41 pm
Bughu chances a glance around, as though expecting soldiers to come through the brush. "I am here on behalf of Ontharr Frume," he says, wondering if the name would mean anything to the injured woman. "What is your purpose here?"
Nov 11, 2018 2:03 am
"I do not know of an Ontharr Frume." Leema responds, looking past the man to see if any of the others she heard talking are about.

"Our purpose was to investigate the recent activity of the lizard-men in the area. They've been much more aggressive as of late and we're trying to determine their motives."

She spreads her arms to her sides and looks down at her plain clothes and then back to Khatagi.

"Obviously things haven't gone as planned."
Nov 11, 2018 12:15 pm
I could take a look at your wound, make sure that nothing is wrong. Erich says, holding his hands up to show that they are empty.
Nov 11, 2018 3:47 pm
"That would be most welcome." Leema responds, moving out of the lean to. With a slight smirk she adds, "Although as a healer, I make a lousy patient."
Last edited November 11, 2018 5:26 pm
Nov 11, 2018 4:30 pm
Bughu steps back, giving Erich more room. "We met up with some lizardfolk back at the Carnath Roadhouse. Seven of them, and we followed their trail here. You think it's the same group that caught you?"

Though it may only be obvious to his companions, Bughu's face is mixed with hesitation on whether to tell this prisoner why the trail interests them. Suspicions on who else might be working with the Cult after their recent discovery are high.
OOC:
Leema is locked in a cell, or tied up in a lean-to?
Nov 11, 2018 4:53 pm
OOC:
I assumed it was sort of a mix between the two. Maybe a lean to with a front cell wall? Makeshift in nature?
Nov 11, 2018 5:14 pm
OOC:
She's laying in a lean-to. She is, amazingly, unrestrained and uncaged
Nov 11, 2018 5:30 pm
Erich moves to check the wound, familiar slightly with first aid basics.

Rolls

Medicine - (1d20+3)

(7) + 3 = 10

Nov 11, 2018 5:44 pm
"We approached from the opposite direction" Leema responds to Bughu's query. "If I had to guess though, my bet would be the ones that got us are part of the same group you were following."

She does her best to hold still as Erich checks her wound. "If my equipment is around here someplace I'll finish up what you've started. Had some proper medic gear with me."
Nov 11, 2018 8:31 pm
Bughu, somewhat confident that Erich knows what he's doing, tries to check the rest of the campsite for the mentioned equipment.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20-1)

(7) - 1 = 6

Nov 12, 2018 9:09 pm
Searching through the other lean-tos, you find Leema's gear and a pouch of some strange blue powder in a small bag.
Nov 12, 2018 9:41 pm
Grabbing the equipment and pouch, Bughu brings them over to the woman. "Strange that they left you unbound, and we found no other guards," he says. To the others, he says, "See what you can do for her. I'm going to look around." He pads off to secure the perimeter, and try to find a trail beyond the campsite.

Rolls

Perception, Survival - (1d20+4, 1d20+1)

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

1d20+1 : (8) + 1 = 9

Nov 12, 2018 10:23 pm
"Maybe they were in a hurry" Leema offers as she grabs her gear from Bughu. She takes a quick inventory of her equipment and realizes that her coins and diamonds are gone. "That's not good" she mumbles under breath.

She offers her thanks to Erich for looking at her wound while she begins to don her armor. "Appreciate the help, friend. My name is Leema, Leema Rask. Medic in service to Tempus."
Nov 13, 2018 4:42 pm
Bughu finds that the only other tracks in the area lead up to where the canoes sit on the edge of the stream. It looks like there were some other canoes here a short time ago as well.
Nov 13, 2018 4:57 pm
"Bughu Khatagi," says the archer. "What will you do now?"
Nov 13, 2018 11:17 pm
Leema stares blankly at Bughu for an awkward amount of time as she considers how to answer.

"I need to find out what happened to the others." she says, breaking her silence.

"And I need to recover what was taken from me by the scaleys. The best way to do both of those things is to track them and get some answers."

She finishes securing her weapons and gear before offering, "If you're looking for another hand in your attempt to track these things I'd be more than happy to volunteer.
Nov 13, 2018 11:34 pm
Bughu nods. "Do you have a map of the area?" he asks. "The lizards must have taken some of these boats, but I don't know of anything nearby they could have gone to."
Nov 14, 2018 1:45 am
M'name's Erich Vannal, pleasure to meet you, although better circumstances would certainly have been preferable.
Nov 14, 2018 2:11 am
"Indeed, Erich. The middle of a scaley camp is never the place for a proper introduction."

"As far as a map, that would be with our scout. My map reading skills are... poor, at best."
Nov 15, 2018 3:15 pm
As you speak, you hear, in the distance, the occasional splash of oars and voices hissing the the tongue of the dragons. Erich can hear the words, but they don't seem overly important ("Watch for that log", "Almost there")
Nov 15, 2018 3:25 pm
Shhh, we've got more lizardlips rowing off in the distance. Erich says, gesturing towards the sound.
Nov 15, 2018 3:26 pm
After a few more moments, you can tell that the sounds are getting closer.
Nov 15, 2018 4:12 pm
"Hide," says Bughu, already looking around for a place to spring an ambush. As his gaze falls across Leema, he considers something. "Don't know if they're expecting you to still be here," he finally says, "but I'm not about to leave anyone out in the open. If these newcomers aren't expecting a prisoner, things will look normal. If they are, maybe they'll be confused enough that we can take advantage of it."

To everyone, he says, "We'll need to know where they came from. Try to leave one alive and talking." Bughu heads into the brush for cover.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+7)

(13) + 7 = 20

Nov 15, 2018 8:41 pm
"Whatever they're expecting, they won't be finding a prisoner." Leema responds in a hushed tone. She looks for a suitable location to hide that will hopefully support the others if a fight breaks out. She motions to Bughu where she'll be positioned and moves into place, keeping an eye open as to Erich's whereabouts.

She crouches down and reluctantly prepares her crossbow. "I hate this thing" she complains, loading a bolt into the weapon.

Rolls

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

1d20+1 : (15) + 1 = 16

1d20+1 : (20) + 1 = 21

Nov 18, 2018 4:40 am
I pop my head over the edge of the lean-to and address Leema. "Hey there! Name's Xalana. Sorry, didn't mean to startle you. Just wanted to keep watch to make sure everything was clear. Sounds like it isn't anymore. Anyway, nice to meet you! Hope we can help you find your friends." As an afterthought, she creates a fuzzy image of Leema laying in the makeshift lean-to, as described by the others to the best of her ability. Then she looks for a place to hide.
OOC:
Using Minor Illusion to create fake Leema.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+6)

(11) + 6 = 17

Nov 20, 2018 2:14 pm
Several minutes later, three canoes land on the bank and a dozen lizardfolk climb out and walk into the camp. They looks suspiciously around the camp and begin speaking. Erich understands the words, "They should be back soon. The humans will not be pleased if the delivery is late..."
Nov 20, 2018 2:20 pm
Erich sits very still, watching for any clue as to what he should do from Bughu.

Don't just blow all of them up, you can't take this many of them. Wait until the group makes a decision Erich.
Nov 20, 2018 3:30 pm
Eager for vengeance Leema says a small prayer asking for Tempus' protection. She then lines up a shot with her crossbow on one of the lead lizardmen and waits.
OOC:
She cast Shield of Faith on herself for +2 AC for 10 minutes. AC = 19
Nov 20, 2018 4:58 pm
Unfamiliar with the Draconic tongue, Bughu sets his sights on the new arrivals. Sparing a glance to ensure his companions are in position, he makes eye contact and gives a nod. The lizardfolk are in a good kill zone, and now is the time to strike.

The archer launches two quick bolts from his light crossbow, then readies his smaller handheld one as he steps out of cover to engage and draw attention from the others.
OOC:
Keeping a bit of distance in case anyone unleashes an area-effect, but exposing my position to get the lizardfolk's eyes on me.

Rolls

Light Crossbow, Advantage, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d20+9, 1d8+4)

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

1d20+9 : (10) + 9 = 19

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

Extra Attack Light Crossbow (Ignore Loading), Advantage, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d20+9, 1d8+4)

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

1d20+9 : (8) + 9 = 17

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

Nov 20, 2018 6:07 pm
OOC:
You all get to surprise the enemy. Go ahead and take your turns
Nov 20, 2018 6:23 pm
Erich shifts to get as many of the lizards in a row as possible, chanting and presenting a crystal. With a flare, a roaring gout of flame rushes forward, rushing across the lizards.


Casting Aganazzar's scorcher towards the lizards, trying to catch as many as possible. DC 14 Dex save for half damage. Burning a Sorcery Point to reroll up to 3 damage dice. All damage is fire, so all 1s are 2s. :) Damn, shouldn't have rerolled.... 17 damage/8 damage if they make their save.
1st 4/4 | 2nd 1/3 | 3rd 0/2
34/38 HP | 16 AC | Inspiration 0 | 4/5 SP
Last edited November 20, 2018 6:23 pm

Rolls

Scorcher Damage - (3d8)

(784) = 19

Try rerolling the 4? - (1d8)

(1) = 1

Nov 20, 2018 7:21 pm
Impressed with the way the others eagerly jump into battle Leema smiles slightly as she squeezes the trigger on her crossbow.

Before the bolt even finds its mark she quickly drops the weapon and readies her sword and shield - hoping to engage any lizards that have taking Bughu's bait.
OOC:
With the shield Leema's AC would be 21.

Rolls

Heavy Crossbow Attack - (1d20+4, 1d10+1)

1d20+4 : (10) + 4 = 14

1d10+1 : (9) + 1 = 10

Advantage for being hidden? - (1d20+4)

(9) + 4 = 13

Nov 22, 2018 12:31 am
Jon takes careful aim. Try to hit between the eyes, they say...whoever came up with that one wasn't looking at a lizard's face...

Rolls

Shortbow attack vs lizardman - (1d20+3, 1d6+1)

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

1d6+1 : (6) + 1 = 7

Nov 22, 2018 1:18 am
OOC:
Jon should be level 5. Everyone moves up quite a while ago if you want to gain your level :)

Just waiting on Xalana!
Nov 23, 2018 3:41 pm
Round One: Bughu, Jon, Leema, Erich
Bughu's first bolt takes the lead lizardfolk by surprise, striking it in the chest. Spotting the fighter, it turns just in time to take another bolt to the chest.

Erich's spell streaks across the clearing, catching three of the lizardfolk. All of them are caught off-guard and are badly burned.

Leema's bolt catches L2 in the side of the neck. It falls over, clutching at the wound as it bleeds out.

Jon's arrow finds its home in the heart of L1. It stagger back and falls over, its club still on its hip.
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Lean-tos
Stream
Extinguished campfire
Canoes
Nov 23, 2018 3:43 pm
Round One: Lizardfolk
Several of the lizardfolk dive for cover behind the canoes (L3-L6, drawing and throwing javelins after they are in safety)

One of the javelins strikes Leema, slicing across the side of her leg (22 vs AC. Damage: 3), while all the rest miss their mark.

The others charge forward, drawing clubs as they descend on your position in the bushes.

L7 swings at Jon, but he's able to narrowly avoid the attack, ducking under it at just the last moment.

Leema takes a hit in the shoulder from L8's heavy club (21 vs AC. Damage: 3).

L9 also goes for Leema, missing by a wide margin.

L10 swings at Erich, but the sorcerer ducks behind a tangle of thin trees and avoids the attack.

L11 strikes Xalana in the chest with his club, knocking the breath out of her (15 vs AC. Damage: 5)

L12 strikes Bughu on the arm, causing it to tingle and go slightly numb (16 vs AC. Damage: 8)
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Lean-tos
Stream
Extinguished campfire
Canoes
OOC:
Your turn!
Nov 23, 2018 4:15 pm
[ +- ] Stuff that happens in an alternate timeline where Drama forgot we had a long rest
OOC:
Ignore all the previous stuff, I forgot we had rested. Time to blow some stuff up a little better.
Erich smiles at the lizard in front of him, and launches a spark of fire into the middle of the camp, up in the air slightly, soon a large boom echoes out, as a forty foot sphere of flame detonates midair, blanketing much of the camp in a furious conflagration.

Casting Fireball towards the camp, trying to catch as many as possible. DC 14 Dex save for half damage. All damage is fire, so all 1s are 2s. Using a SP to reroll up to 3 damage. With rerolls and elemental adapt: 30 damage, 15 on successful saving throw.
1st 4/4 | 2nd 1/3 | 3rd 1/2
38/38 HP | 16 AC | Inspiration 0 | 3/5 SP
Last edited November 23, 2018 5:07 pm

Rolls

Aganazzar's Scorcher - (3d8)

(832) = 13

FIREBALL!!!! - (8d6)

(41424521) = 23

Rerolling 3 of the 2s - (3d6)

(425) = 11

Nov 23, 2018 6:31 pm
"Vile creatures!" Leema yells, striking out at her club wielding opponent with her sword. Wanting to keep the other scaley from feeling unloved, she spins and attempts to slash it across the chest.
OOC:
Using 'War Priestess' to gain a bonus action attack on L9.
AC=21 or 19 depending on the concentration rolls below.
EDIT: AC=19
Last edited November 23, 2018 6:32 pm

Rolls

Attack on L8 - (1d20+6, 1d8+3)

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

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

Attack on L9 - (1d20+6, 1d8+3)

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

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

Concentration v 10 - (1d20+2)

(18) + 2 = 20

Concentration v 10 - (1d20+2)

(7) + 2 = 9

Nov 26, 2018 7:26 pm
OOC:
Bump for Bughu, Jon, Xalana!
Nov 28, 2018 1:53 am
I turn, releasing a white feather towards the closest lizard and those behind it, chanting in a dissonant tone.
OOC:
Attempting not to hit our peeps
[ +- ] Casting Fear
Nov 29, 2018 6:53 am
Bughu retaliates against L12, firing his hand crossbow for the lizardfolk's thighs and arms. Already he is tracking the progress of L10 and L11 to assist the spellcasters.

Rolls

Hand Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

1d20+9 : (16) + 9 = 25

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

Extra Attack Hand Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

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

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

Bonus Action Hand Crossbow, Piercing Damage - (1d20+9, 1d6+4)

1d20+9 : (19) + 9 = 28

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

Nov 29, 2018 3:43 pm
Round Two: Party
Erich's fireball explodes near the canoes, engulfing those lizardfolk behind the canoes as well as another further forward near the bushes.

Leema swings at the lizard in front of her a couple times, but her aim is thrown off as her vision blurs from the brightness of the flames.

Bughu's crossbow bolts strike L12 in rapid succession, taking it down.

Xalana's fear spell affects L8 and L9 and their eyes open wide in fear as they begin scrambling to flee
[ +- ] Enemies
Battlefield Features
Lean-tos
Stream
Lit campfire
Canoes
OOC:
Enemy turn!
Nov 29, 2018 3:44 pm
In only a couple more moments, you are able to end the fight. The two who fled in fear quickly surrender to your overwhelming might, prostrating themselves on the ground and begging for mercy.
Nov 29, 2018 5:16 pm
Bughu collects some rope and begins to tie the lizardfolk up and inspect their belongings. Once the prisoners are secured, he checks on the condition of his companions and gathers up any salvageable crossbow bolts.
Nov 29, 2018 7:54 pm
Leema wipes her sword clean as is her habit after combat and collects her discarded crossbow.

"It seems that you work well together as a group" she comments moving towards the now bound lizard-folk. "Pity I couldn't have made a better showing myself."

She takes a quick look over the prisoners, even kneeling beside them as if looking for something.

"Did everyone come out unharmed?"
Nov 30, 2018 1:54 am
Bughu looks at his arm, inspecting his injury. "Minor bruise," he says. "I'll be fine."

He looks over at their prisoners. "Do you speak Common?" he asks.
Nov 30, 2018 4:15 am
Tapping the wire coiled around my wrist, I wave at Bughu to get his attention and "whisper" a message in his ear from 30 feet away. I can translate if you need me to. Just let me know. I continue to gather all the belongings and make note of how many usable canoes are still available.
Nov 30, 2018 1:57 pm
Erich walks up to the pair of tied up lizardfolk, and casts a bonfire to one side of them, close enough to remind them of the fireball, but not close enough to hurt. He kneels down in front of them and addresses them in Draconic.
[ +- ] Draconic
Nov 30, 2018 5:31 pm
Bughu nods at Xalana, but opts to let Erich communicate with the lizardfolk.
Dec 1, 2018 6:09 pm
Leema, fairly certain that the lizards do not have what she is looking for, stands quietly with her arms crossed.
Dec 1, 2018 9:33 pm
"We don't speak this language, common, that you are asking about," one of them says in draconic, "Why did you invade our camp?"
Dec 4, 2018 12:28 am
"We will ask the questions," says Bughu, speaking through Erich. "Where did you come from?"
Last edited December 4, 2018 12:29 am
Dec 4, 2018 3:10 am
They speak no common, and want to know why we invaded. What's the best answer for them, if I need to deliver one? Erich says before relaying Bughu's statement and question to the bound prisoners.
Dec 4, 2018 9:33 pm
"Invaded!?" Leema exclaims, taking exception.

She draws her dagger and kneels next to the bound lizardman.

"I. Was. Brought. Here." she says forcefully, taping the hostage's scales with the flat of her blade to emphasize each word.
Dec 6, 2018 12:27 am
The lizardfolk ignore Bughu, looking at Leema, "You came to our land," it says, "We have rights to take you as a prisoner. You are foreign invader. These are not human lands."
OOC:
I assume that Erich will be happy to translate all
Dec 6, 2018 11:15 pm
Leema, still squatting next to the prisoner, sheaths her blade.

"None of us want to be here" she says slowly, waiting for Erich to translate before continuing.

"It's the recent odd behavior of you scaleys that have forced us to investigate."

She stands up drawing her sword as she does and points it at the lizardman's throat.

"Now answer the question. Where did you come from?"
OOC:
Leema is attempting to be intimidating

Rolls

Intimidation - (1d20+4)

(9) + 4 = 13

Dec 7, 2018 12:16 am
Bughu assists Leema in her interrogation by drawing his scimitar and thwacking the lizardfolk across the cheek with the back of his blade.
OOC:
Using the Help action to grant Leema advantage.
Dec 7, 2018 2:53 am
Erich does indeed translate anything said in both directions, ensuring to use the strongest possible versions of the language when telling the lizards what his physically aggressive companions are saying.
Dec 10, 2018 5:43 pm
OOC:
Sorry about the delay, work has been busy lately, but should be slowing down now
"Our tribe has always lived on these lands," the lizard replies, "Many, many generations of our people have lived and died in this land."
Dec 10, 2018 9:36 pm
"It seems something may have been lost in translation" Leema mutters under her breath as she pushes the tip of her sword against the lizard’s throat.

"From where were you and the others returning?"
Last edited December 10, 2018 9:36 pm
Dec 11, 2018 12:25 am
Bughu sheathes his scimitar. "Find out what you can. Where they came from, what they do here with the supplies from Carnath Roadhouse, any primary movers and shakers that make all the decisions. I suspect this is part of the supply chain where the cultists transfer all their loot, since those fellows no longer seemed interested in keeping tabs on the crates.

"I'm going to keep watch on the perimeter, in case they send folk in waves."
Bughu readies his crossbow and looks for a vantage point to become a lookout.
Dec 12, 2018 1:56 am
"Or they might not know anything. Just keep that in mind."
Dec 12, 2018 2:19 am
Bughu nods to Xalana. "Good point. But whatever they do know, like where they came from, should still come in handy."
Dec 12, 2018 3:02 pm
"We come from human castle," the lizard responds, "Worshipers of Tiamat. We are paid well for simple delivery job."
Dec 12, 2018 4:31 pm
What were you meant to deliver? Erich asks, thinking on their worship of Tiamat.
OOC:
I can't remember because I suck, but did the blue half-dragon guy that got whalloped earlier worship Tiamat as well? Or did we not find out during our interrogation?
Dec 12, 2018 5:02 pm
OOC:
I don't remember if you specifically asked, but the answer is yes
"Coins, art, other treasure," the lizard responds, "They'd paid us in iron equipment. Weapons, armor, and tools mostly."
Dec 12, 2018 5:44 pm
Who is they? As specific as you can be, please. Erich says, eyes casting a much darker tone than his words do.
Dec 12, 2018 6:59 pm
OOC:
It's been a while, so I might have a few details mixed up or mistaken. We do know that the Cult of the Dragon is doing something with all the loot, and we found out that they're taking it to a castle (I think Xalana read someone's mind for that piece of information).

Lennithon the Blue (a dragon that asked us to recover her egg from the hatchery near Greenrest) told us about Rezmir, whom I believe is a woman that wears purple. I think Rezmir is leading all of this, but I don't recall if we ever met or saw her in person.

As for the worship of Tiamat, I think we all inferred that with how fanatical the cultists were. Even Lennithon was unwilling to cross Tiamat, despite her indifference to our conflicts with the cult.
Dec 12, 2018 7:44 pm
OOC:
You have it right. You have never met Rezmir and know little about her besides her relative status within the cult and the color of her clothing
"Humans, mostly," the lizard shrugs, "You all look much the same to me. Never bothered learning names."
Dec 13, 2018 11:37 pm
Listening intently to the translated conversation Leema realizes that the others have been dealing with Lizardman threat much longer than her and her battalion. She backs away from the prisoner and sheaths her sword, moving in closer to Xalana.

"Just how long have you been dealing with the activities of the scaleys?"
Dec 15, 2018 2:26 am
"Just a few weeks, maybe? Feels like a lot longer, to tell you the truth. The rest of them have been at it even longer than me. I was sent to help... smooth things over for them. I'm the friendly face that opens doors, ya know?" I give her a playful grin. It's the gnomiest.
Dec 15, 2018 4:26 am
"A useful skill" Leema responds, misinterpreting Xalana’s meaning. "Not any lock-pickers in my battalion. A locked door that needs to be open simply gets busted down. Not as subtle as your technique, but it gets the job done."
Dec 15, 2018 3:26 pm
So you never bothered to learn which of the humans was responsible for paying you? Seems like a dumb way to go about your business. Where do you take the weapons and armor?
OOC:
Going to try putting some intimidation on them. Potential advantage because they are tied up and their crew got roasted in like 18 seconds.

Rolls

Intimidation (adv if applicable) - (1d20+3, 1d20+3)

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

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

Dec 17, 2018 2:58 pm
"We take the payment to our tribe," it replies as if that should be the most obvious thing in the world.
Dec 17, 2018 3:56 pm
"Where is this castle? Where do they take the gold?" Bughu asks.
Dec 18, 2018 4:09 pm
"Follow the stream, it's impossible to miss," it replies, "And I don't care where they take the gold. We get our payment. Is all that matters."
Dec 18, 2018 4:16 pm
Bughu continues his line of questioning through Erich's translation. "How many humans are at the castle? Who do you speak with? What passwords do you have? Or do you just row up to the castle with your cargo?"
Dec 19, 2018 1:22 am
Erich continues the translation, mind racing to keep up with Bughu's questioning. As they respond, he makes mental notes of their attitude towards non-lizardfolk.

No wonder grandmother hunted these vermin. he thinks to himself, doing his best to keep his slowly building anger in check, lest he unleash furious fires across the captives.
Dec 21, 2018 5:03 pm
Leema continues to listen to the translated conversation, trying to piece together exactly what the others have been doing that led them to the lizardmen.
Dec 21, 2018 5:52 pm
"Just row up. They know why we are there."
Dec 21, 2018 6:01 pm
"Anyone else have any questions?" Bughu asks of the others. "I've got our next destination in this bloody mission, and we'll probably find more information there than from these guys. Speaking of which, what should we do with them?"

He casts a sidelong glance at Erich, knowing the sorcerer is the only one that has seen what Bughu has done to other prisoners.
Dec 22, 2018 11:26 pm
I have no use for these ones. They don't pay attention to names, so they aren't even a good warning if we leave them. If the others have no qualms, feel free to deal with them as you will. he says in common, standing up from his position on the ground. As he turns to the prisoners and grins wildly.
[ +- ] Draconic
Dec 22, 2018 11:46 pm
OOC:
Oh dark! There's no evidence they worship Tiamat and their only crimes were smuggling and defending 'their' land :-P
Dec 23, 2018 12:44 am
OOC:
Eh, they are providing the cult with weapons. For Erich and his familial history, it's enough of a connection to Tiamat. Plus, he's tired. :P
Dec 24, 2018 6:20 pm
"If they're anything like Langdedrosa, mercy is a foreign concept," says Bughu. "However, they may still be of some use to us. Tell them to row us to the castle. We'll make like we have another shipment. How does that sound?"
Dec 24, 2018 7:46 pm
"How do we know they’ll take us there and not into some sort of trap?"
Dec 28, 2018 5:41 am
"We can trust them. I mean, they haven't lied to us yet... right?"

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+7)

(19) + 7 = 26

Dec 28, 2018 4:52 pm
As far as Xalana can tell, the lizardfolk have been totally honest throughout this exchange.
Jan 4, 2019 4:34 pm
"Let's go," says Bughu, hoisting one of the lizardfolk up and pushing them to the boats. "If they betray us, we kill them."

He pauses, and look to Leema. "I don't know if it's on your way, but that castle is where we'll find answers, I think. We're following a Dragon Cult trail, and so far we've determined that they've been plundering local villages and towns of treasure and smuggling everything north. We need to find out what they're planning and where all of these valuables are ending up."
OOC:
I can't remember if we filled in Leema on our task, so I'll do it now.
Jan 4, 2019 8:51 pm
"So you believe the scalies to be working with this Dragon Cult." Leema half asks half states. "It would explain some of the behavior my battalion was sent out to investigate."

She ponders the situation for a brief moment before agreeing to go with the others.

"The castle may very well provide the answers we're looking for. Perhaps I can also find out what happened to the others in my unit."
Jan 6, 2019 7:41 pm
It's good to have you with us Leema. More eyes will be helpful for sure. Erich says, extending his hand to shake politely.
Jan 8, 2019 9:09 pm
"And friends. We can always use more friends."
Jan 8, 2019 10:16 pm
"It certainly won't hurt." Leema responds to Erich, shaking the sorcerer's hand. She smiles politely to Xalana but says nothing.
Last edited January 8, 2019 10:18 pm
Jan 8, 2019 10:24 pm
Bughu looks inside the canoes for anything that might prove useful, whether weapons and ammunition, or clothing that might conceal their presence from distant observation.
Jan 10, 2019 9:11 pm
In the canoes, there isn't much, but you do find some old cloth sacks that could possibly be fashioned into disguises.
Jan 14, 2019 7:21 pm
Bughu takes some of the sacks. "We could try and make these into cowls or hoods, something that can conceal our features from a distance." He takes a knife to slit one side of the sack, and tries the fit over his own head.
OOC:
I'm ready to proceed to the castle. Anyone need to prepare, or have suggestions for what else we can do?
Jan 14, 2019 10:40 pm
"A reasonable plan." Leema says. Following Bughu's lead, she grabs one of the sacks and does her best to fashion a hood from it.
OOC:
Leema is ready to go.
Jan 16, 2019 4:49 am
"Good thinking! Let's go." I throw my hood over my head.
Jan 16, 2019 8:36 pm
Some time later, the lizardfolk tell you that you are nearing the castle, "Want us to stop here or go all the way up?"
Jan 18, 2019 3:04 am
"Who do you meet when you approach the castle?" Bughu asks by way of Erich, considering the group's odds of passing through checkpoints versus disembarking and advancing on foot.
Jan 18, 2019 4:07 am
"And are they armed?" Leema adds, fidgeting with her makeshift hood.
Last edited January 18, 2019 4:07 am
Jan 18, 2019 1:46 pm
Erich continues bouncing between draconic and common as needed to get the message across, while keeping his eyes on the approach so they aren't taken by surprise.

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