Chapter 6: Mantol-Derith

Aug 4, 2017 1:15 am
A couple days later, you are led to a tunnel leading to the Underdark. Well provisioned and with a sizable guard, you are sent off with a minimal amount of fanfare.

Accompanying you are: a Shield Guardian (under the command of Xeliss, five knights lent to you by Sir Strayl, a scout, a riding lizard for each of you, five guards and three rogues from the Lords' Alliance, as well as eight men from the Zhentarim, each of whom knows the way to Mantol-Derith.

Of special note among the group is a tiefling with a fine cloak and a lyre strapped to her back. She wears fine traveling clothes and wears a ring identifying her as a member of the Lords' Alliance.

Once the group is all gathered, Bruenor himself opens a well-guarded gate leading to the Underdark, "Good luck to ye," he says, reaching behind his shield as you pass, handing each of you a mug of ale as you pass, "Something to take the edge off," he says with a wink as you pass.

Once you are out and the gate is closed, you are in total darkness, but for the torches carried by some members of the group.
OOC:
I'll give a moment here for Melpomene to introduce herself :)
Aug 4, 2017 10:10 am
Melpomene steps forward and curtsies gracefully to the group, "I am Lady Melpomene Eaglesford, but please, call me Poe. Lord Haund sent me to help you on your quest." As she straightens she looks at each member of the group guardedly, waiting for the inevitable disgust, hatred, or fear at the sight of her face within her hood. Her tail she keeps carefully wrapped around her body under her cloak.
Aug 4, 2017 12:20 pm
Mai'ngor's hand goes to his sword hilt. He nudges Elfog and hisses, his voice low, pitched for the dwarf's ears alone, "What's this, demonspawn among us? Are we to make friends with all our enemies? "
Aug 4, 2017 2:28 pm
Sarith raises an eyebrow and looks pointedly at Mai'ngor, "And where would you be now if you hadn't made friends with this enemy?" he asks, indicating himself.
Aug 4, 2017 2:29 pm
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Aug 4, 2017 5:31 pm
Hunter is busy draining the contents of the parting ale, her arcane staff leaning in the crook of her elbow and against her shoulder. She wipes the froth from her lips, then wonders about the king's shield that stores mugs for special occasions. She will need to research that.

Sitting side-saddle on one of the lizards, Hunter stuffs her empty mug into her bag. She reapplies the veil around her nose and mouth, and looks to the tiefling. "Introductions, then," says the half-elf, stifling a burp and pointing to each person she names. "Xeliss, there with the fancy servant (I am so jealous of that). Elfog, the dwarf with the nasty axe and nastier temper. Mai'ngor, the tikbalang with the long face and the bright sword. Sarith, the elf who has seen the stars and the silver moon.

"And I am Hunter,"
she finishes with a bow of her head.
Aug 4, 2017 7:49 pm
Following Mai'ngor's lead, Elfog's hand instinctively goes for a weapon, but his actions are cut short upon hearing Sarith speak.

"Damn" he curses under his breath, before taking a deep breath and motioning for his comrade to calm down.

"The man's got a point" he says. "And Bruenor wouldn't be sending someone along he don't trust" he adds, trying to convince himself as much as Mai'ngor.
OOC:
How big is Beard at this point? Elfog riding sized yet? :-)
Aug 4, 2017 11:51 pm
OOC:
At the rate he is growing, it seems that it will likely be just a few more weeks before you can ride him. He currently is too big to have on your shoulder, rising up to just over knee level
Aug 5, 2017 12:33 am
OOC:
I'll have him tag along with us if that's ok.
Aug 5, 2017 12:47 am
"Ms Poe, what assistance have you been tasked with providing?" asks Hunter, conversationally ignoring the whispers going on amongst the others.
Aug 5, 2017 9:46 am
Poe looks down in shame and embarrassment as the inevitable whispering starts. She looks up as the half-elf speaks to her plainly, gratitude shining from her face.

"I am a bard, well studied in lore and with some small magics. My main purpose, thought, is translation. It is a pleasure to meet you," she looks at the others sadly, "...all of you."
Aug 5, 2017 10:01 am
Mai'ngor's equine eyes glow red in the gloom, staring fixedly at Sarith. "Who told you we were friends?" he asks softly. But the horse-headed fey's hand has left Sinag's hilt and his posture has relaxed somewhat.
Aug 5, 2017 1:18 pm
Sarith grins in response to Mai'ngor's words, but doesn't say anything to him.
Aug 5, 2017 4:52 pm
"Languages and lore! Good," says Hunter, inwardly wondering how one commands a riding lizard. "Perhaps now we won't fumble around without a clue. You know many of the tongues of the Underdark, then?"
Aug 6, 2017 11:17 am
"I was chosen for the less common tongues, actually. Because of this curse I was born with, I have done a lot of research trying to understand languages of denziens from the other planes. I am fluent in both Abyssal and Infernal, which may be quite useful given the evils we will face."
Aug 8, 2017 12:53 am
"So you're here to... talk to them, translate for us, or both?" I eye the newcomer warily. Trust is what got us almost killed last time, before Hunter got rid of that demon thing that attacked us. But we can't go around killing everyone that wants to help just because we don't trust them yet. I take a deep swig of the ale. You know, this does help!
Last edited August 8, 2017 1:00 am
Aug 8, 2017 1:01 am
As you make your way out of the well-known tunnels around Gauntlgrym, the group you are traveling with takes up defensive formations, knowing that to be caught off-guard in the Underdark is to die. Sarith moves away with a grin and a nod, becoming a shadow in the darkness, appearing only rarely to report on what he sees in the darkness.
OOC:
I accepted the character. Since there appears to be some chatter going on, I will allow things to move along naturally.
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Aug 8, 2017 1:14 am
Mai'ngor continues to brood in the darkness at first, though he longs to hold Sinag aloft to light the way. But eventually he relents and draws the sword, flooding the tunnel with daylight. That seems to lift the tikbalang's spirits somewhat.
OOC:
Extending the light to maximum radius: 30ft bright + 30ft dim.
Last edited August 8, 2017 1:15 am
Aug 8, 2017 1:23 am
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Aug 8, 2017 2:22 am
As they travel, Hunter asks one of their Zhentarim guides, "What sort of person is Ghazrim Du Loc?"
Aug 8, 2017 1:42 pm
"Smart," the guide replies, eyes sweeping the darkness for danger, "Loyal, too. He's one of the best, he is. You can always count on him to get the job done."

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Aug 8, 2017 2:31 pm
Shielding his eyes as his vision makes the adjustment from the darkness, Elfog looks over at Mai'ngor.

"Little warning next time" he says "going to blind half the crew with that thing."

He mumbles to himself for a few seconds before adding, "Better than the dark, I 'spose."
Aug 8, 2017 2:41 pm
Sigh. "I prefer the dark."
Aug 8, 2017 4:49 pm
"And how far is it to Mantol-Derith?" continues Hunter, slowly acclimating herself to the riding lizard's gait. Already she can feel a dull ache in her haunches.
Aug 8, 2017 7:17 pm
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Aug 9, 2017 2:00 am
"Hmm... probably a good 200 miles, I'd say," the Zhentarim man replies, "A long trip, to be sure, but great business to be done there."

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Aug 9, 2017 2:23 am
Hunter inwardly laments at the distance. "I'm sure," she agrees, absently.
Aug 9, 2017 3:06 am
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Aug 9, 2017 5:06 pm
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The ride is suspiciously quiet and you begin to notice that it's been quite some time since Sarith has made an appearance.
Aug 9, 2017 5:36 pm
Hunter looks in the last direction Sarith was known to have gone, and touches the copper wire wrapped around her ear.
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Aug 9, 2017 7:08 pm
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Aug 11, 2017 7:12 pm
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Hunter doesn't get a response from her spell, but realizes why when she sees him approaching from another direction. Surprisingly, he has his blade drawn and is walking behind a female drow.
Aug 11, 2017 7:23 pm
The female drow is clothed mostly in black and grey, specifically in leathers and hides. A black hood is pulled up over her head, helping to somewhat conceal a mess of scars on the right side of her face. A heavy bandage also covers her right eye, which is likely missing due to the same wounds. She has a serious of daggers sheathed on her person, and a simple longbow and quiver on her back. Her bow looks rather poor quality.

Meriele's hands are raised up slightly, her only showing eye carefully assessing the situation. "Greetings," she says, as though there is not a blade to her back.
Last edited August 11, 2017 7:28 pm
Aug 11, 2017 8:15 pm
"Where did this one come from?" Hunter asks, perhaps a little too casually. She looks from Meriele to Sarith, and back again.
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Rolls

Insight - (1d20+1)

(19) + 1 = 20

Aug 11, 2017 9:22 pm
Meriele speaks pointedly before Sarith, "'This one's' name is Meriele. I'm not an enemy, for what my word is worth to you. If you're the people I think you are, then I intend to be your ally." After a pause she points her thumb behind her, "I was just over there, hiding. I wanted to make sure that you were the once-prisoners of Velkynvelve before I approached." Her hands remained raised, though she shifts her weight from one foot to the other.

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Last edited August 11, 2017 9:50 pm
Aug 11, 2017 9:41 pm
"And what do you know about our time in that place?" Elfog asks, uncertain of what to make of the newcomer.
Aug 11, 2017 10:17 pm
"So it is you, then?" She asks, looking at the dwarf, and hesitantly to some of the others.

"Well, I know of little that is specific to you," she shrugs, "But I have experienced Velkynvelve as well, so I can... sympathize." Her brow furrows and she speaks somewhat harsher, "More importantly, I heard you killed that waela darthiir Ilvara."
Last edited August 11, 2017 10:17 pm
Aug 11, 2017 10:31 pm
"I don't know what walla dathar is meaning, but can take a guess" Elfog responds. "But, aye, we killed 'er during our escape."

His shoulders slump forward and he lets out a long sigh. "Lost some good folk in that battle."
Aug 11, 2017 10:43 pm
Hunter's expression is non-committal. She states it aloud for the benefit of the others, "Oh yes, we've had wonderful experiences with people seeking us out, pulling things from our memories as if they know us."
Aug 11, 2017 11:08 pm
The drow nods to Elfog, but says nothing before Hunter speaks. Meriele does not look surprised by being met with this resistance, but she also does not speak to her own defense. She merely waits, hands remaining raised.
Aug 12, 2017 2:08 am
"How did you find us? And why?" I feel a headache coming on. This is all very suspicious.
Aug 12, 2017 2:44 am
"It took time," Meriele admits, "But this is my home, and I've lived here for many decades. I know my way around." If she is not interrupted, her arms lower somewhat, until her elbows are at her sides and they are not so heavy to hold in the air. "Ilvara," she says with a hint of venom, "Wronged me. Gravely." Meriele's scarred cheek twitches at the thought. "It would have been impossible for me to kill her myself, but it turned out that I did not have to." She takes in a slow breath, her eye roaming to each of those speaking with her, "You unknowingly did me a great favor."

She takes a moment to look at the gazes she is receiving. "I don't blame you," she says, reading their suspicion. "I know it is hard to trust me," Meriele speaks slowly and carefully, "But I have adopted the ways of Lady Silverhair." Her lips tighten a moment, and she lets out a breath, "This is... new to me, as well, but I am trying the only thing I can. I seek purpose, and as I see it, I owe you a debt."
Aug 12, 2017 6:39 am
Haloed in Sinag's light, Mai'ngor warns, "This is trickery. Remember Silverymoon."
Aug 12, 2017 7:07 am
Hunter smiles at Mai'ngor's warning, as the tikbalang states plainly what she herself only alludes. She lowers the veil from her face. "A test, perhaps?" she offers. "I cast a spell upon you. If you come back to us, you are not of the Abyss, and I would be willing to extend the same trust I have with these strangers." Hunter gestures to the Zhentarim and Poe, followed by an open hand, palm up, to Meriele.

While the drow considers, Hunter tries to recall information about Lady Silverhair.

Rolls

Religion - (1d20+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Aug 12, 2017 10:06 am
Raising a brow at Mai'ngor, she seems to have little idea of what's being discussed. "I see no other choice," Meriele says, giving Hunter an affirmative nod.
Aug 14, 2017 2:49 am
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Seeing that you seem to have this taken care of, the others that are traveling with you stop moving and merely watch to see what will happen. You have, unofficially, been set up as leaders of this group.
Aug 14, 2017 4:27 pm
Hunter looks at Meriele, observing the scarred drow. "Works for me," she says, and turns to the others. "The enemy would have balked at the prospect. Let's keep going." She wraps her veil across her face and tries to get the lizard to move forward.

"Introduce yourself, then. And this Lady you serve," says Hunter.

Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Aug 14, 2017 6:24 pm
Hunter doesn't recognize this "Lady Silverhair".
OOC:
If the name of Eilistraee is given, Hunter would recognize that name as a good Drow deity
Aug 14, 2017 7:46 pm
Meriele doesn't seem to fully understand, looking around to the others to see if they accept this test as well. She slowly lowers her arms.

As she observes, she speaks, "As I said, my name is Meriele. Lady Silverhair, or Eilistraee, is a goddess to the Drow. Specifically, she is for those of us seeking some measure of redemption, and a different way of life." Should Hunter manage to get her mount moving, Meriele will keep pace on foot.
Aug 14, 2017 7:51 pm
Mai'ngor seems unconvinced by the test, and eyes both Meriele and Melpomene with suspicion as the group starts moving.

He struggles with his mount. The tikbalang's equine lower limbs are not meant for riding.
Last edited August 14, 2017 7:53 pm

Rolls

Animal handling - (1d20+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Aug 15, 2017 4:20 pm
OOC:
You guys doing all of this RP makes my life so much easier! Doesn't look like it's quite done yet, so I'll let you keep going for a little bit
Aug 15, 2017 4:50 pm
Hunter looks over to one of the escorts, her palms up and indicating her stubborn lizard, wordlessly asking for a little assistance. "Ah, Eilistraee," she repeats to mask her frustration. "I apologize for not recognizing the reference. And what are you... (erg, blasted beast, I would make you into a handbag if I could)... wanting to redeem yourself of?"
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Aug 15, 2017 10:00 pm
What kind of test was that? Elfog grumbles under his breath after it appears that Hunter has let the Drow off the hook a bit easy.

"'spose we'll have to trust Hunter on this one" he whispers to Mai'ngor as the Tikbalang struggles with his mount.
Aug 15, 2017 11:19 pm
Meriele eyes Hunter's lizard, not wanting to interfere with her attempts. She takes a moment to reply, though perhaps only because she's distracted by the lizard, "If you know much of anything about my kind, then you already know the answer to that question." She extends a hand to the side of the base of the beast's neck, and speaks firmly, "Phindar, usstan quarth dos z'har."

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Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+2, 1d20+2)

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

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

Aug 16, 2017 12:35 am
The lizard is resistant to attempts to get it to follow directions at first, even toward Meriele, but when she utters the words in drow, it calms right down and becomes more docile.
Aug 16, 2017 12:38 am
Hunter nods her thanks. "Perhaps," she says in reference to Meriele's words, "but what have you done?"
Aug 16, 2017 2:56 am
"It is not your fault," Meriele says about the lizard, "It is particularly stubborn. Try z'har."

Then she frowns and goes quiet a moment. It is plain to see that she does not want to answer. She resolves herself to go against this instinct, and though her mouth is still turned down, she replies. "I have caused immense pain," Meriele admits, the guilt making her appear unemotional about it, "To those that did not deserve it. I have killed for the sake of pleasure and status." Her voice seems tight toward the end of her statement, and she quiets down to take a slow breath. "This was long ago," She clarifies. She adds, to Hunter, "I will confess to you whatever you wish, Veldrin, but perhaps there is a better place for it than here."
Aug 16, 2017 3:02 am
Sarith clears his throat, "I don't know how far we can trust this one... but I CAN tell you that no female drow who follows the path of our people would come to a surface group and pretend to be under their power, not for any reason. They have FAR too much pride for that. For that alone, I think that we should give her a chance to prove herself."
Aug 16, 2017 10:36 am
Meriele ponders the male drow, looking somewhat surprised to have his approval. She'd expected him to resist more than anyone else. She glances toward him, but is uncertain how to express her gratitude, or if she even should.
Last edited August 17, 2017 12:15 am
Aug 16, 2017 12:28 pm
Sarith doesn't glance toward Meriele, though he obviously notices her look. He appears to be struggling with something internally, from the look on his face.
Aug 16, 2017 2:31 pm
"Hunter, I trust." Mai'ngor whispers back to Elfog. "But if you'll recall, she hasn't been quite herself of late."
Aug 16, 2017 2:37 pm
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Aug 16, 2017 4:09 pm
"Your input is appreciated, Sarith," says Hunter, settling into the sideseat saddle. "Let's go, we have a lot of ground to cover."
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Aug 16, 2017 11:14 pm
"Aye" Elfog whispers, shuddering at the thought. "Just have to keep an eye on the new 'ne then."

He directs his mount besides Sarith and, motioning towards the mount, asks him what it was that Meriele has said in an attempt to calm Hunter's ride.
Aug 16, 2017 11:40 pm
Poe watches this interchange with interest, but knowing her place, says nothing.
Aug 17, 2017 12:23 am
Meriele turns to keep pace with Hunter's riding lizard, walking slightly behind it and to the side. She remains silent, making no attempt to engage in conversation.
Aug 19, 2017 12:55 am
It is over a week before you get close to Mantol-Derith, all of which is relatively peaceful, aside from a couple of mindless monsters in your path, which are easily put down. As you get closer, your Zhentarim guide joins you for a short time, "We're probably just a day out now. I'm a bit surprised we haven't been spotted yet, this close, to be honest with you."
Aug 19, 2017 2:12 am
"Spotted?" Hunter repeats, asking for clarification.
Aug 19, 2017 2:48 am
"They're waiting for us? Should we be worried?"
Aug 19, 2017 3:55 am
"You don't think there would be a successful trading post out here without an abundance of security, do you?" he asks with a chuckle, "Nothing to worry about, I'm sure. They've just usually made contact by now."
Aug 19, 2017 5:48 pm
"I'm sure," says Hunter, though her tone does not share the sentiment. She begins channeling her innate powers, bringing them to the forefront in preparation for whatever awaits them.
Aug 19, 2017 6:00 pm
Uneasy as it is, Elfog does a quick weapon's check, just to ensure they're within easy reach should they be needed.
Aug 20, 2017 11:46 am
Meriele sighs softly through her nose, pulling her bow from her back and taking a moment to string it.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Aug 22, 2017 12:19 am
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Amazingly, you don't run into any trouble on your last day traveling. You are still not confronted by any scouts or guards, but find one at the entrance into Mantol-Derith. The door is opened by a whispered password from the leader of the Zhentarim. You are led down a series of tunnels, through a deep trench, and to a lift, which is made of crystal.

From above, you suddenly hear a scream and then a svirfneblin crashes to the ground at your feet. As if triggered by the gnome hitting the ground, you suddenly hear the sound of pitched combat above. With a curse, the man who leads the Zhentarim turns to you, "Who's going up first? Seems like something bad's going on up there!"
Aug 22, 2017 12:52 am
Without hesitation, Elfog leaps from his mount, and unhooks Tolvihar from his back. "You and me, Mai'ngor" he yells over his shoulder, rushing forward towards the sound of battle.
Aug 22, 2017 1:27 am
OOC:
There's enough room for six people to go up each trip, and also your lizards can climb walls, though you'll not be able to have weapons out, as the saddles you have aren't designed for holding you in place securely enough for vertical ascent.
Sarith moves to the wall and nods, "Meet you at the top," he says and begins to levitate straight up.
Aug 22, 2017 3:01 am
"Figures," Hunter laments. She slides off her lizard, not very eager to test out the vertical climb, and opts for the lift. The sorcerer tries to remain in the back of the throng as she asks, "What's upstairs?"
Aug 22, 2017 9:22 am
Without hesitation, Poe slips into the lift behind Hunter.
Aug 22, 2017 10:14 am
OOC:
How far up? Misty Step if within range. Otherwise, I'll take a chance on the lizard.
Last edited August 22, 2017 10:15 am
Aug 22, 2017 11:37 am
Meriele, bow still strung over her shoulder, moves onto the lift and first takes a knee beside the fallen svirfneblin, checking him or her for any sign of life.
Last edited August 22, 2017 11:38 am

Rolls

Medicine - (1d20+2)

(17) + 2 = 19

Aug 23, 2017 2:26 am
"Who's with me?" I look towards the allies closest to me and point straight up.
OOC:
Just to make sure... as a Giant Eagle I can carry someone while flying... right?
Aug 23, 2017 4:14 am
Meriele can tell that the gnome is dead now. Even if it hadn't fallen, it would be far beyond saving based on its numerous wounds.
OOC:
Based on Lord of the Rings, I'll say yes, you can carry someone ;)
Aug 23, 2017 4:29 am
Meriele takes a moment to drag the gnome aside, taking the small being off of the lift. The drow takes her simple bow in hand and slides an arrow from her quiver as she gets back into the lift. She positions herself, so long as there is no complaint, in front of Melpomene and Hunter.
Aug 24, 2017 1:15 pm
The group of you manages to make it to the top by quickly. The trench bisects an enormous cavern with a 30-foot high ceiling supported by naturally formed stone columns. There are bridges leading over the trench about 40 feet to the North and South. Continual Flame spells cast on stone lampposts reflect off crystals embedded in the walls and ceiling, illuminating myriad fountains, waterfalls, streams, and pools. Water drips from stalactites onto leather tarps covering clusters of merchant stalls west and east of the trench. Beyond these marketplaces are well·tended gardens of mold and fungi, crystal walkways, and stone bridges. The tranquil beauty of Mantol-Derith is undone by sounds of combat to the northeast, where you hear the thunderous boom of metal against stone and see panicked svirfneblin running from 8-foot-tall duergar.
OOC:
You are on the side of the trench that's nearest to the booming, so you won't have to cross over
Aug 24, 2017 1:26 pm
Not trusting his control of the lizard, Mai'ngor dismounts and leads the charge on foot.

Mai'ngor starts to urge his mount forward, then turns in his saddle. We should seek whoever commands the defense. Where should we go?
Last edited September 10, 2017 1:58 pm
Aug 24, 2017 1:28 pm
OOC:
I specifically haven't called out for combat yet. You haven't been attacked and have no idea who the "good guys" are at this point
Aug 24, 2017 5:12 pm
The booming sound is coming from the northeast, but you can't see what's actually causing it. There are market stalls and buildings in the way. There are a number of svirfneblin falling back in that direction, being pushed back by a group of duergar.

http://i.imgur.com/siABHRG.png?1
OOC:
2 is the trench, you are just on the east side of it
3b is market stalls and small buildings
Some more duergar are coming from the direction of 5a, but seem to be ignoring you
Booming is coming from the direction of 6a
Aug 24, 2017 5:39 pm
Hunter drily asks the Zhentarim escort, "Is this normal?" She holds her energy in reserve, wondering if they're seeing nothing more than the Underdark method of haggling.
Aug 24, 2017 5:49 pm
Your escort is the only one who came up with you. His name is Savy, and he shakes his head, "This is normally a peaceful place, with strictly enforced codes of conduct. Something like this hasn't happened in YEARS."
Aug 24, 2017 5:56 pm
"Well, so long as we know that both duergar and svirfneblin aren't strangers to this place," Hunter states. Inwardly she remembers the deep gnomes from Blingdenstone and their brilliant deadpan choice of words, and wonders if that's what the group is seeing here.

She looks to the duergar coming from the south. Hunter steps into the roadway, tries to muster as much authority as her small frame can manage, plants her staff, and barks, "What's going on here?!"

Rolls

Intimidation - (1d20+8)

(18) + 8 = 26

Aug 24, 2017 6:03 pm
The duergar skid to a halt and stare incredulously at Hunter, "They been stealin' from us! Goin' to get what's ours is what's goin' on!"
OOC:
There are six duergar in the group that Hunter stopped and they are currently 15 feet from her
Aug 24, 2017 6:11 pm
"And none of you thought to speak to the Zhentarim about it?!" snaps Hunter. "Tell your large friend there to stand down before the lot of you get hurt. Or worse, kicked out!"
Aug 24, 2017 7:22 pm
"Ain't none o' their damn business!" the duergar roars, "They steal from me people, then me people're gonna deal with it!"

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Aug 24, 2017 7:30 pm
At this time, another group of people arrive at the top of the lift and step out, dramatically increasing how intimidating your group is. The lift moves back down to grab more people from below.
Aug 24, 2017 7:49 pm
Hunter roars back, "And you're interfering with the Zhentarim's ability to give me what I want, which makes it MY business!" She slams the end of her staff onto the ground for emphasis, and uses Prestidigitation to add a small thunderclap and flash of sparks.

She leans forward, jerks her thumb over to the ensemble of experienced characters next to her, and adds with a growl, "And my business is their business. Stand. Down."
Aug 25, 2017 12:52 am
Elfog walks over and stands slightly behind and to the side of Hunter, letting her continue to skillfully run the show.

He says nothing and merely crosses his arms across his puffed out chest.
Aug 25, 2017 1:08 am
Mai'ngor levels Sinag's bright blade at the duergar and growls, "These creatures are known to be evil. My first impulse upon seeing them was to cut them down. Tell me why I should continue to stay Sinag's blade."
Last edited August 25, 2017 1:08 am
Aug 25, 2017 6:54 am
Meriele makes no attempt to appear imposing alongside the others. She gladly falls toward the back of the group once the others take the stage, bow readied and arrow in hand.
Aug 25, 2017 12:01 pm
The lead duergar flinches at the authority in Hunter's voice, takes a step back, and spits on the floor, "Bah! Fine, have it yer way!" he shouts as he turns around. The small group turns to leave back the way they came.
Aug 25, 2017 4:07 pm
Hunter quells the urge to mirror the spitting gesture and turns for the giant duergar and fleeing svirfneblin. She assesses where they are heading and hopes to intercept.
Aug 25, 2017 4:13 pm
At this point, the giant duergar is out of sight, having chased the svirfneblin around the corner leading toward the booming sound.

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Aug 25, 2017 4:57 pm
"I don't understand what's happening here." Mai'ngor mutters with a shake of his mane. Both his blades are drawn, and there's a dangerous look in his eyes.
Aug 25, 2017 5:19 pm
Savy shakes his head, "Seems like the place has gone mad since I was here last... Perhaps we should investigate the booming sound? We have a big enough group here that we could probably put a stop to the conflict over there until we figure things out."
Aug 25, 2017 5:36 pm
"Come on," Hunter says, already moving towards the conflict.
Aug 25, 2017 7:24 pm
You follow the large duergar around the corner and into a grove of large fungus. You show up just in time to see the duergar cut down the helpless gnome and join his comrades.

The fungal grove in the deep gnome enclave has been left to grow wild. Strewn about the grove are the corpses of a dozen dead svirfneblin, all of whom appear to have been killed by duergar.

Set into the northeast wall is a set of stone double doors that the svirfneblin have barred from within. Four enlarged duergar are breaking through the doors with war picks, and it's only a matter of time before they reduce the doors to rubble.
Aug 25, 2017 8:00 pm
This time Mai'ngor no longer hesitates: with both blades flashing, haloed in Sinag's light, the tikbalang champion charges the duergar.
OOC:
Bonus action to begin War Dance. Rolling initiative in case you need it.
[ +- ] Mai'ngor's combat stats
Last edited August 29, 2017 2:32 pm

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+5)

(19) + 5 = 24

Aug 25, 2017 8:07 pm
Poe runs forward and sings three brief notes, then shouts in Dwarven, "Hold your attack! Stand down!"
OOC:
Thaumaturgy cantrip; voice is magnified x3
Aug 25, 2017 8:34 pm
Hunter sends a Message to Mai'ngor, Goes for you, too, dear. I'd prefer to go about our task without the threat of battle raging around us, and these dwarves are apparently allowed within this outpost.
OOC:
I am reminded of high school PA systems with the three short notes. :)

Also, I am fully aware that Mai'ngor may not understand Poe's dwarvish, but Hunter's Message stands as-is.
Aug 25, 2017 8:49 pm
As a chieftain's son, Mai'ngor should understand the folly in upsetting the balance of power in a place like this. But such wisdom goes unheeded now. As does Hunter's voice in his head. All he hears is Sinag's urging. He charges forward, the ancient tikbalang war chant on his lips:
Spirits of wind, make swift my hooves,
Lords of lightning, make mighty my arm,
Spirits of the great balete tree, make stalwart my heart,
Bathala, sky-father, grant me an honorable death.
Aug 25, 2017 11:01 pm
"Ah, hell" Elfog grunts, watching the Tikbalang charge forward. Tightening his hold on Tolvihar, he readies himself to attack, but will maintain his position slightly behind and to the left of Hunter.

"If he gets 'imself in deep, I'll be joining 'im" he says to those close by. "Can't have the damned fool gettin' hurt."
Last edited August 25, 2017 11:11 pm
Aug 25, 2017 11:06 pm
"No," Hunter agrees, "and though this place might consider it cheap, his life has more worth than Tiny over there."
Aug 25, 2017 11:30 pm
Meriele follows Mai'ngor's charge at a slower pace, jogging behind. She sets her arrow back into its quiver, freeing up a hand in preparation.
Aug 27, 2017 12:36 am
Muttering what must be curses in a horrible language, Poe follows behind, pulling her lyre around so that she can reach its strings.
Aug 27, 2017 12:44 am
The duergar pause for a moment to see who yelled, and then see Mai'ngor rushing forward. They get ready to meet his charge...
OOC:
Mai'ngor, are you still going to make the attack even after Hunter's pleas not to?
Aug 27, 2017 3:09 am
Mai'ngor is quicker than the duergar anticipate and is able to make his move first.
OOC:
If that's not clear enough, you've won initiative!
Aug 27, 2017 10:09 am
Seeing that Mai'ngor has no intent of stopping, Meriele frowns and casts a hand out toward him.
OOC:
If I can attempt to go before Mai'ngor, I'd like to cast Darkness on the space 20 feet ahead of him, between him and his target. If I can't go before him, theeennn.... disregard!
Aug 27, 2017 12:12 pm
Mai'ngor dances the tikbalang war dance, his blades a blur, slashing high and low. Sinag's light waxes full, blinding these denizens of the Underdark.
OOC:
At maximum, Sinag casts daylight in a 60ft radius.
[ +- ] Mai'ngor's combat stats
Last edited August 29, 2017 2:32 pm

Rolls

Attack #1: Sinag - (1d20+10, 1d8+9)

1d20+10 : (8) + 10 = 18

1d8+9 : (6) + 9 = 15

Bonus: +1 kris - (1d20+9, 1d6+8)

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

1d6+8 : (3) + 8 = 11

Attack #2: Sinag - (1d20+10, 1d8+9)

1d20+10 : (14) + 10 = 24

1d8+9 : (1) + 9 = 10

Action Surge: Attack #3: Sinag - (1d20+10, 1d8+9)

1d20+10 : (19) + 10 = 29

1d8+9 : (8) + 9 = 17

Action Surge: Attack #4: Sinag - (1d20+10, 1d8+9)

1d20+10 : (11) + 10 = 21

1d8+9 : (7) + 9 = 16

Crit damage - (1d8)

(1) = 1

Aug 28, 2017 12:46 am
Round One: Mai'ngor
As Mai'ngor rushes forward, the duergar are caught unprepared. His light-formed blade pierces through the chest of the closest duergar at the same time that his kris takes its throat, making sure that it will not fight back. He quickly pulls his blades out of the first victim and cuts down another. Sinag catches his third foe in the shoulder, causing it to drop its war pick with a muttered curse.

There's a lot of howling from the pain in their eyes and the cries for their fallen. "Get him!" a voice shouts from within the fungus grove around them...
OOC:
That leaves three duergar in front of the door, one of which is badly injured

Their turn!
Aug 28, 2017 1:07 am
Round One: Duergar
The three duergar in front of the door try to work past the pain in their eyes, pressed against the door as they are by the furious assault. They rush forward, attacking Mai'ngor from all sides and trying to take him down quickly and put out the wretched light.

One of the armed duergar manages to hit Mai'ngor with his pick (18 vs AC. Damage: 6). The other two duergar miss with their attacks.

Suddenly, as if from nowhere, a hail of javelins flies out from the mushroom groves, sailing toward Elfog, who has his weapon bared. Three javelins fail to strike, but there are two that manage to strike the dwarven warrior (20 and 20 vs AC. Damage: 14 and 13).

Three javelins also arc toward Mai'ngor. Two of them manage to hit the equine warrior, one of them quite solidly (Crit, 23 vs AC. Damage: 21, 9)

Looking about, you can see that there are eight duergar hiding in the grove surrounding the door. They must have been invisible, previously. They are all enlarged through their innate magical powers. There are four on either side of the door. All of them are within charging distance.
OOC:
It looks like you never updated Mai'ngor's AC to account for his Unarmored Defense! It should be 18, correct? If that's the case, ignore the 17s I rolled!

Your turn!
Aug 28, 2017 2:35 am
"Is this typical?" Meriele asks the others, eyes never leaving the bloodbath.
Aug 28, 2017 5:05 am
Streaked in blood both druergar and his own, Mai'ngor presses his offensive on the remaining druergars at the door.
Last edited August 28, 2017 10:46 pm

Rolls

Attack #1: Sinag - (1d20+10, 1d8+9)

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

1d8+9 : (1) + 9 = 10

Bonus: +1 kris - (1d20+9, 1d6+8)

1d20+9 : (20) + 9 = 29

1d6+8 : (4) + 8 = 12

Crit damage - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Attack #2: Sinag - (1d20+10, 1d8+9)

1d20+10 : (19) + 10 = 29

1d8+9 : (7) + 9 = 16

Crit damage - (1d8)

(4) = 4

Aug 28, 2017 5:20 am
Hunter shrugs noncommittally, reaching forward with her free hand towards the fungal grove on one side of the door. Palm down and fingers clenched, she raises her hand as though lifting something from the ground, and a column of dirt and stone erupt into the air.
[ +- ] Erupting Earth
OOC:
Trying to get as many of the duergar as I can.

Rolls

3rd-level Erupting Earth (DEX save vs 16) - (3d12)

(11124) = 27

Wild Magic - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Aug 28, 2017 10:21 pm
Just as he starts to rush forward, Elfog witness the ground start to rise in front of him and comes to a quick stop. He looks back to see Hunter in the midst of a spell.

"I'ma let you finish" he says, waiting for the ground to settle before rushing to aid his comrade.
Aug 29, 2017 10:31 am
Meriele also waits wordlessly, having not yet drawn her bow.
Aug 29, 2017 12:05 pm
Round Two: Hunter and Mai'ngor
Mai'ngor's follow-up with Sinag is deftly parried by the duergar, who has now drawn a long dagger, but he is unable to block the lightning-fast strike of the kris from taking him in the eye. He tumbles backwards into oblivion. He moves onto the next enemy and slashes at him with Sinag, leaving a scorching line across the front of his armor.

Hunter's spell explodes, sending earth and fungus into the sky and battering the duergar in the grove on the left side of the door. Once the explosive spell calms down, there is no further movement from that side.

Enemies
Door
Duergar 1: DEAD
Duergar 2: DEAD
Duergar 3: DEAD
Duergar 4: 6/26, AC 16
Duergar 5: 26/26, AC 16

Left Grove
Duergar 6: DEAD
Duergar 7: DEAD
Duergar 8: DEAD
Duergar 9: DEAD

Right Grove
Duergar 10: 26/26, AC 16
Duergar 11: 26/26, AC 16
Duergar 12: 26/26, AC 16
Duergar 13: 26/26, AC 16
OOC:
Remaining:
Xeliss
Elfog
Meriele
Melpomene
Aug 29, 2017 5:52 pm
Hunter leans over to Elfog. "Try to leave at least one alive," she says, before giving him a push forward.
Aug 29, 2017 8:07 pm
Poe strums and sings a quiet lullaby as she waves her hand toward the duergar in the right-hand grove.
[ +- ] Slow
Aug 29, 2017 8:13 pm
Round Two: Melpomene
Melpomene's spell goes off and three of the four duergar in the right-hand grove begin moving extremely slowly.
OOC:
Melpomene, your save DC should be 16 (8 + Cha Mod + Proficiency).
It looks like your proficiency wasn't listed (should be +3), but I added it and everything is good now
Enemies
Door
Duergar 1: DEAD
Duergar 2: DEAD
Duergar 3: DEAD
Duergar 4: 6/26, AC 16
Duergar 5: 26/26, AC 16

Left Grove
Duergar 6: DEAD
Duergar 7: DEAD
Duergar 8: DEAD
Duergar 9: DEAD

Right Grove
Duergar 10: 26/26, AC 16
Duergar 11: 26/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
Duergar 12: 26/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
Duergar 13: 26/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
OOC:
Remaining:
Xeliss
Elfog
Meriele
Aug 29, 2017 11:15 pm
Elfog's heart starts to pound, and a quick smile flashes across his face, as Hunter prods him forward.

"I'll see what I can do" he growls.

Adjusting his hold of Tolvihar, he rushes into the right grove, leaving a trail of dwarven obscenities in his wake. Hoping to take advantage of Lady Melpomene's work, he picks out two of the slower members of the group and attacks, swinging his axe with reckless abandon.
OOC:
Rage, Reckless Attack (attack rolls against have advantage), Extra Attack

Rolls

Attack on Duergar #12 - (1d20+10, 1d20+10, 1d12+7)

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

1d20+10 : (11) + 10 = 21

1d12+7 : (3) + 7 = 10

Attack on Duergar #13 - (1d20+10, 1d20+10, 1d12+7)

1d20+10 : (12) + 10 = 22

1d20+10 : (15) + 10 = 25

1d12+7 : (3) + 7 = 10

Aug 31, 2017 5:44 am
Meriele turns and walks back toward Hunter. She seems uninterested in joining this fight, but does not interfere. Facing the battle, she crosses her arms and observes.
Aug 31, 2017 12:43 pm
Round Two: Elfog and Meriele
Elfog rushes forward toward the right-most grove and swings his magical axe at D11 twice. The duerger, though slowed, is able to narrowly avoid fatal blows, but is badly injured by the attacks he does receive.

Meriele simply watches the fight, choosing not to engage.

Enemies
Door
Duergar 1: DEAD
Duergar 2: DEAD
Duergar 3: DEAD
Duergar 4: 6/26, AC 16
Duergar 5: 26/26, AC 16

Left Grove
Duergar 6: DEAD
Duergar 7: DEAD
Duergar 8: DEAD
Duergar 9: DEAD

Right Grove
Duergar 10: 26/26, AC 16
Duergar 11: 6/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
Duergar 12: 26/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
Duergar 13: 26/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
OOC:
Remaining:
Xeliss

We'll give her a little bit of time before we move on!
Sep 1, 2017 3:15 pm
Round Two: Xeliss
Xeliss, still in her giant eagle form, swoops down to aid her beleaguered people. She attacks the one that Elfog already injured and kills it before flying back up into the air to prepare for another attack.

Enemies
Door
Duergar 1: DEAD
Duergar 2: DEAD
Duergar 3: DEAD
Duergar 4: 6/26, AC 16
Duergar 5: 26/26, AC 16

Left Grove
Duergar 6: DEAD
Duergar 7: DEAD
Duergar 8: DEAD
Duergar 9: DEAD

Right Grove
Duergar 10: 26/26, AC 16
Duergar 11: DEAD
Duergar 12: 26/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
Duergar 13: 26/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
Sep 1, 2017 3:20 pm
Round Two: Duergar
Trapped between the party and the door, the duergar fight like animals.

Squinting in the bright light, the two duergar facing Mai'ngor swing their weapons at him. He is able to easily deflect their attacks, hindered as they are by the light.

The three facing Elfog surround the dwarf, wanting to take their hated cousin down before they die. Only one of them manages to strike him (17 vs AC. Damage: 16)

Enemies
Door
Duergar 1: DEAD
Duergar 2: DEAD
Duergar 3: DEAD
Duergar 4: 6/26, AC 16
Duergar 5: 26/26, AC 16

Left Grove
Duergar 6: DEAD
Duergar 7: DEAD
Duergar 8: DEAD
Duergar 9: DEAD

Right Grove
Duergar 10: 26/26, AC 16
Duergar 11: DEAD
Duergar 12: 26/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
Duergar 13: 26/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
OOC:
Your turn!
Sep 1, 2017 5:54 pm
Without looking at her, Hunter tells Meriele, "Make yourself useful, dear, and send an arrow into a duergar's knee." She adds dryly, "Finishing this quickly will be better for all of us."

The sorcerer traces a sigil in the air and arcane lines follows her fingertip. Once completed, the sigil hangs in the air like smoke until Hunter pinches the tail end and pulls back like a slingshot. She releases the sigil and it hurtles forward, transforming into a chaotic mass of energy as it speeds towards Duergar13.
[ +- ] 2nd-level Chaos Bolt

Rolls

Chaos Bolt (1st d8 determines damage type) - (1d20+8, 2d8, 1d6)

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

2d8 : (65) = 11

1d6 : (2) = 2

Wild Magic - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Sep 1, 2017 6:09 pm
Undeterred by the Duergar's attack, Elfog reverses his grip on Tolvihar and takes several backhand hacks at his opponent.
[ +- ] Combat Stats
Last edited September 1, 2017 6:10 pm

Rolls

Attack on Duergar #12 - (1d20+10, 1d20+10, 1d12+7)

1d20+10 : (15) + 10 = 25

1d20+10 : (18) + 10 = 28

1d12+7 : (1) + 7 = 8

Attack on Duergar #13 - (1d20+10, 1d20+10, 1d12+7)

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

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

1d12+7 : (12) + 7 = 19

Sep 1, 2017 7:29 pm
Round Three: Elfog, Hunter, Sarith
As you deal with the issue of the duergar, the rest of your group stands against a smaller surge of duergar attacking from the back.

Hunter's spell shoots toward D13 and strikes his chest, turning into a sickly green as it does so. The spell does seem to have some small effect on him.

Elfog lashes out at D12 and D13. His attack is blocked by D12, but it takes a lot out of the duergar to block the mighty Tolvihar. D13 is still slightly off-balance form the spell and takes an axe to the chest, ending him immediately.

Sarith, unseen until now, pops up from behind D12 and stabs him in the back with his rapier (8 damage). He stabs once again, but is unable to pierce the armor of the dwarf.

Enemies
Door
Duergar 1: DEAD
Duergar 2: DEAD
Duergar 3: DEAD
Duergar 4: 6/26, AC 16
Duergar 5: 26/26, AC 16

Left Grove
Duergar 6: DEAD
Duergar 7: DEAD
Duergar 8: DEAD
Duergar 9: DEAD

Right Grove
Duergar 10: 26/26, AC 16
Duergar 11: DEAD
Duergar 12: 10/26, AC 14 (Slow, 1 minute)
Duergar 13: DEAD
OOC:
Remaining:
Meriele
Melpomene
Mai'ngor
Xeliss
Sep 2, 2017 9:58 am
Poe sings out, the power of her music behind her words, "Brave dwarf, may your axe swing true."
OOC:
Bonus Action: Bardic Inspiration +1d8 after roll but before result
Then her music changes to a silly tune with jarring accent notes.
OOC:
Casting Tasha's Hideous Laughter on 10.
Sep 3, 2017 2:10 am
Meriele's only reply to Hunter is to draw her bow and slide an arrow from behind her shoulder. She calmly nocks the arrow and takes careful aim at one of the Duergar. As she fires, the arrow glows white and leaves a subtle after-image in its wake.

When her attack hits home, she takes aim at a new target. Before draw her arrow, she makes a quick, magical gesture towards it, and then lines up her shot. This arrow glows with a sickening, yellow energy.
[ +- ] Mind-Scrambling Arrow
OOC:
If it's not dead, it has to pass a DC 14 Wis Save. If it fails, I'm choosing Elfog for the beneficial effects of the arrow.

Also, for clarification's sake, I used Colossus Slayer on the first attack.
Last edited September 3, 2017 2:22 am

Rolls

Attack 1 vs Duergar 12 - (1d20+11, 1d20+11, 2d8+6)

1d20+11 : (20) + 11 = 31

1d20+11 : (17) + 11 = 28

2d8+6 : (57) + 6 = 18

Crit damage - (2d8)

(88) = 16

Mind-Scrambling Arrow (if hit) vs. Duergar 10 w/ Sharpshooter feat and Hunter's Mark - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d8+16, 3d6)

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

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

1d8+16 : (1) + 16 = 17

3d6 : (526) = 13

Another crit? - (1d8, 3d6)

1d8 : (5) = 5

3d6 : (346) = 13

Sep 4, 2017 7:45 pm
Mai'ngor's war dance has built up a frenzy as he tries to finish off the two remaining duergar at the door. The nimble tikbalang goes into a twising dive, his weapons sweeping under him, parallel to the ground, like twin scythes aimed just above the knee.
[ +- ] Combat Stats
Last edited September 4, 2017 7:48 pm

Rolls

Attack #1: Sinag - (1d20+10, 1d8+9)

1d20+10 : (20) + 10 = 30

1d8+9 : (3) + 9 = 12

Crit damage - (1d8)

(4) = 4

Bonus: +1 kris - (1d20+9, 1d6+8)

1d20+9 : (12) + 9 = 21

1d6+8 : (3) + 8 = 11

Attack #2: Sinag - (1d20+10, 1d8+9)

1d20+10 : (1) + 10 = 11

1d8+9 : (2) + 9 = 11

Sep 4, 2017 8:59 pm
I swoop down and attempt to grab the healthiest looking of the remaining duergar. If I'm able to get a good group in it, I will attempt to drop it from as far up as possible, or if that fails drop it closer to Mai'ngor.

Rolls

Strength Check? - (1d20+3)

(12) + 3 = 15

Sep 5, 2017 12:57 pm
Round Three: Meriele, Melpo, Xeliss, and Mai'ngor
Melpomene releases her focus on the spell of slowing that she'd cast earlier and directs her magical energy at D10. He begins to giggle, but quickly quells the urge before it can become overpowering.

Meriele's first arrow catches D12 right in the throat, sending the duergar to his knees and then to the floor, grasping his torn throat.

He magically imbued arrow strikes D10 in chest, blasting through his armor and stopping with it's point sticking out of its back. It, too, falls to the ground, dead.

Mai'ngor's light-forged blade catches the first duergar at the knee, sending him to the ground, where his head strikes a rock and he stops moving. His kris catches the next foe in the thigh, which the duergar shrugs off.

The last enemy howls in anger and goes to swing his pick at the tikbalang's exposed flank, but he is suddenly snatched up by a HUGE eagle which flies up into the air. When it gets high, it drops the duergar, who briefly screams before coming to a stop with a loud crunch.

Enemies
Door
Duergar 1: DEAD
Duergar 2: DEAD
Duergar 3: DEAD
Duergar 4: DEAD
Duergar 5: DEAD

Left Grove
Duergar 6: DEAD
Duergar 7: DEAD
Duergar 8: DEAD
Duergar 9: DEAD

Right Grove
Duergar 10: DEAD
Duergar 11: DEAD
Duergar 12: DEAD
Duergar 13: DEAD
OOC:
Combat over
Sep 5, 2017 4:28 pm
"Feel better?" Hunter asks of Mai'ngor as she steps past the tikbalang on her way to the stone double doors. Taking care not to step in or slip upon the gore, she reaches out with her staff to politely knock upon the entrance.
Sep 5, 2017 4:38 pm
His battle frenzy having subsided, Mai'ngor raises an eyebrow at Hunter's question. He sends his thoughts to his light-forged kris as he surveys his handiwork.

"What did she mean, Sinag? Was it unjust to stamp out these vile creatures? Shouldn't we even now strike down the drow and the fiend spawn?"
Sep 5, 2017 5:29 pm
Naatkinson sent a note to jabes.plays.rpg
Hunter knocks on the large door, which now has several large chunks missing. A voice calls out, "Who goes there?"
Sep 5, 2017 5:46 pm
"Hunter Galfyne," answers the sorcerer, "here with delegates from Gauntlgrym and representatives of the Zhentarim. I apologize if you're closed, but your welcome mat is underneath a few bodies and debris.

"May we talk? Preferably inside?"
Sep 5, 2017 5:55 pm
There is a brief pause, and then the doors open. The room within is huge, with a ceiling that is 100 feet high. Niches line the walls; some of these contain goods, while some appear to be homes. The floors are organized, but still cluttered by hundreds of boxes of goods that are being prepared for sale. Standing in front of the door is a single svirfneblin female. She bows as you enter, "Gabble Dripskillet, at your service. I offer you our thanks for stopping those uncultured invaders!"
Sep 5, 2017 7:44 pm
"Hm, yes," says Hunter, in a tone that reserves judgment on what could be considered 'culture.' She crosses the threshold and waits to the side while the others enter. "I'm sure it's all a terrible misunderstanding and you're eager to see it resolved peacefully?"
Sep 5, 2017 8:18 pm
Mai'ngor pauses at the door. He is bathed in blood, and his swords are still drawn. He addresses the svirfneblin, "Are you expecting any more attacks? Perhaps some of us should stand guard..."
Sep 5, 2017 10:28 pm
Taking a few minutes to wind down, Elfog doesn't immediately follow Hunter into the room, choosing to remain just outside the door where he works on cleaning the blood and Duergar hair from his weapon.

"Don't mind starting a tussle meself, once in a while" Elfog says, standing next to Mai'ngor at the door "but that was damned near reckless."
Sep 5, 2017 10:55 pm
"These were murderers. And besides, there’s no room for caution in a life lived to the fullest. And what greater glory is there than battle?"
Sep 5, 2017 11:17 pm
"Ain't saying they didn't get what they had coming, and I'd be lying to say I didn't have myself a bit of fun as well" Elfog says, flicking the last bit of gore from his axe. "I just don't want to see any of the others getting hurt trying to pull you or me from trouble of our own making."

Satisfied that Tolvihar is as clean as it's going to get, he gives the axe a quarter turn, and playfully smacks Mai'ngor in the thigh with the flat of his blade.

"We're all ready to die to protect our friends, but we're even more eager not to let it get to that point."
Sep 5, 2017 11:49 pm
Poe follows Hunter inside, feeling safer around the sorcerer than her more bloodthirsty friends.
Sep 6, 2017 4:22 am
Meriele waits outside by Mai'ngor and Elfog. She takes a moment, checking those Duergar with no visible mortal wounds for any sign of life.
Sep 6, 2017 3:22 pm
"Peacefully? Oh my, yes!" Gabble says enthusiastically, "Do you think that you can make it happen?"

Meriele sees that two of the duergar as still breathing, though very shallowly.

The rest of the expedition forms a perimeter outside, to prevent any further attacks.
Sep 6, 2017 4:33 pm
"Well, I don't know," Hunter states. "It would help if you could provide some insight as to what's going on?"

She looks Poe beside her, and nods gratefully for the added presence during the recounting of events. Good to have someone else with an ear for stories to listen to the svirfneblin side of the story. Hunter calls to mind the context of Mantol-Derith's politics and the duergar's claim, for comparison.
Sep 6, 2017 8:22 pm
Gabble nods and begins explaining, "A duergar merchant by the name of Krimgol accused my friend Yantha of stealing a gem from him. When Yantha denied it, Krimgol and his boys busted in when we weren't prepared and grabbed him. I guess they couldn't find the gem on Yantha, so they came back just now to ransack the place. Thank goodness you came along when you did!"
Sep 6, 2017 11:01 pm
"And where is Yantha now?" Hunter asks. "Still with Krimgol?"
Sep 6, 2017 11:25 pm
"I believe so. Likely in the Duergar compound across the cavern," she says sadly, "If she's even still alive..."
Sep 6, 2017 11:56 pm
"This gem," Hunter says to Gabble, picking out that detail, "you've seen it?"
Sep 7, 2017 1:40 am
Gabble nods, "Kind of," she says, "I saw Yantha talking to Krimgol earlier. He handed her a black gem and they were in some sort of deep discussion, but I had other business to attend to here, and so I left them to it," she explains, small hand stroking her smooth chin, deep in her memories.
Sep 7, 2017 11:38 pm
Poe asks softly, "And have you checked your friend's belongings? Whether she took it or it was planted there, if we could find it and return it...that would prevent further bloodshed."
Sep 7, 2017 11:48 pm
While he's till not convinced she can be trusted, Elfog decides to join Meriele as she walks amongst the fallen Duergar.

"Anything good on 'em?" he asks, poking at one of the corpses with his foot.
Sep 8, 2017 2:02 am
"Probably shouldn't have dropped that one. If I knew you were going to loot the bodies..." I look at the mess of blood and guts strewn over the belongings. Those will take some time to clean.
Sep 8, 2017 4:37 am
Hunter gives a nod of acknowledgement at Poe's question, as well as the unspoken request to search Yantha's room.
Sep 8, 2017 5:48 am
With the rest of the contingent securing the perimeter, Mai'ngor dismisses Sinag's blade and sheaths his other kris. He sits quietly and takes a few moments to regather his strength.

Rolls

Second Wind - (1d10+7)

(1) + 7 = 8

Sep 8, 2017 6:49 am
Meriele moves from body to body, first inspecting them with her eyes and then, for a few, checking their pulse or listening for their breath. She nods to Elfog and speaks, "Some things, here or there." Whether or not she actually found anything valuable, it doesn't seem that she collected anything from the corpses.

At a couple of the bodies, Meriele places a hand upon them and speaks a soft word in Drow.
OOC:
Casting Cure Wounds on the two Duergar that are still alive.
Sep 8, 2017 1:11 pm
Gabble nods, "Of course, first thing we did when she was taken," she informs you, "Did searches manually and with magic, just to be sure. Nothing turned up at all. If we could find it, I'd gladly return it to them, just to stop the madness!"

Among the bodies, you find their armor (scale) and weapons (primarily war picks), but you also find one of them was wearing a suit of plate mail sized for a dwarf. Also, you find a total of 117 gp, 141 sp, and 97 cp on the bodies.

Meriele is able to save a couple of the duergar. They are alive, but badly wounded still and unconscious. Sarith stands back and watches Meriele's actions with open suspicion.
Sep 8, 2017 4:12 pm
"Was anyone else involved in this transaction, or was it just between Yantha and Krimgol?" asks Hunter. "Was anyone else there witness to the entire thing?"
Sep 8, 2017 5:20 pm
With narrowed eyes, Mai'ngor watches both Sarith and Meriele.
Sep 8, 2017 6:36 pm
"What do you think you're doing, Drow?"
Sep 8, 2017 7:33 pm
Probably just have to kill 'em again - Elfog thinks as he watches Meriele stabilize a couple of the dying Duergar. He takes a moment to inspect the dwarf-sized plate mail, briefly toying with the idea of putting it to use.

"Just slow me down" he grunts and drops the armor roughly to the ground.
Last edited September 10, 2017 1:59 pm
Sep 10, 2017 8:25 am
Meriele does not loot any of the bodies, leaving any or all of it to the others, should they choose. She examines the two she managed to save (at least for the time being), not responding for a few moments. Eventually, she rises and turns to Xeliss, "I'm giving them a chance." The drow looks over the bodies, "Perhaps you finish them off. Perhaps not. But at least they have a chance."

She adds, "You could speak to them, as well. Maybe learn something useful."
Sep 10, 2017 2:01 pm
As the duergar Meriele is treating begin to regain consciousness, Mai'ngor rises to his feet and sets Sinag blazing sunlight across the area once more. He points the radiant kris down at the creatures and calls out a command to no one in particular, "Disarm them, or I'll strike them down again!"
Sep 10, 2017 2:10 pm
"Already been done" Eflog says, motioning to the pile of equipment he's gathered in the corner. "They ain't no threat for now."
Sep 10, 2017 2:40 pm
Mai'ngor nods to Elfog and remains guarring the door, weapons drawn.
OOC:
From here can he hear the conversation within?
Sep 10, 2017 5:11 pm
"So far as I know, it was just the two of them," Gabble responds, "And I can't be sure if any witnessed it all, but it's considered bad form to spy on someone else's dealings."
OOC:
You can probably hear the conversation from where you are
Sarith watches the duergar bodies for a minute, thinking, "Perhaps we should restrain them somehow. Last thing we need is for them to wake up and turn invisible on us," he says.
Sep 10, 2017 8:19 pm
Meriele winces against Sinag's light. It is obviously offensive and irritating, but she does not offer complaint. Shading her eye with her arm, she grimaces a moment before expressing to Sarith, "Be my guest."
Last edited September 15, 2017 6:57 am
Sep 11, 2017 9:13 am
Poe turns to Hunter, "Perhaps if any of the duergar survived..."
Sep 11, 2017 12:57 pm
Sarith nods and moves forward, expertly tying rope around their wrists and ankles. With a satisfied nod, he draws his rapier and pokes one of the duergar in the face until a tiny bit of blood is drawn. The duergar startles awake and tries to move away, but isn't able to.

Sarith turns to those inside the enclave, "Hey! Got one of them awake if you want to ask him something."
Sep 11, 2017 4:41 pm
Hunter nods to Melpomene, pausing as she hears Sarith's call. "Perhaps it is time to visit this Krimgol and listen to his side of the story. At the very least, we can return his compatriot as a gesture of good faith."

The sorcerer turns to Gabble. "Well, for now your door is safe," she says. "Of course, if you come across anything that might be of interest to us, do let us know. For now, good... um... er..."

Hunter looks to Melpomene and hisses, "What do you say when you leave? Does 'Good day' have any meaning down here? Do I say 'Good night?'"
Sep 11, 2017 11:40 pm
Poe whispers back, "Stick with 'goodbye'. Universal, unoffensive. Unless they're antitheists, with a really good knowledge of etymology."
Sep 11, 2017 11:50 pm
"For now, goodbye," Hunter recovers from her aside, oblivious to whether or not it was noticed. She nods to Melpomene and takes her leave of Gabble to rejoin the others outside.
Sep 12, 2017 7:31 am
"Well?" Mai'ngor remarks as Hunter and Poe emerge. "It sounds like we've taken on a brand new diplomatic mission."
Sep 12, 2017 3:34 pm
"For now," quantifies Hunter. "I doubt we'll get what we want if the whole place becomes a war zone. Which one is the live one?"

She steps past one of the duergar bodies and calls out to their Zhentarim escort. "And where's Du Loc?"
Sep 12, 2017 5:04 pm
Savy turns and points across the bridges, toward the Southwestern corner of the cavern, "Over there is our enclave, I can take you. Do you want to leave anyone here as guards? Our guys won't let a non-Zhent in, anyway. Aside from your little group, that is."
Sep 12, 2017 5:12 pm
Hunter continues talking to Savy, while jerking a thumb back at the gnome building. "I've half a mind to let these two fight it out, but in your opinion will their little business dispute interfere with our plans?"
Sep 12, 2017 5:14 pm
"I can't imagine it will hurt our goal here, no. It will be bad for Mantol-Derith as a whole though, and if we DO get the chance to fix it up, it would probably be a good idea to do so."
Sep 12, 2017 5:19 pm
"All right," Hunter nods, half with resignation and the realization that they may have to fix things. She turns to the duergar bodies and asks, "Is he awake?"
Sep 12, 2017 5:22 pm
Sarith nods in the affirmative, "Sure is," he says, still holding his rapier to the duergar's throat.
Sep 12, 2017 5:50 pm
"Wonderful," Hunter mutters, waving Poe over and moving to crouch before the dwarf.

Leaning upon her staff with two hands for support, she purrs with a half-smile, "Darling. I think it's terrible we had to meet like this. I was looking forward to a pleasant evening of honorable trade in this faraway outpost, and certainly did not expect to find mindless slaughter and bloodshed. Why don't we start over, have a calm, reasonable conversation, and we can go about our business without staining our hands? Hm?"
Sep 12, 2017 7:12 pm
Mai'ngor stands over Hunter and glares silently at the duergar with Sinag at full blaze.
Sep 12, 2017 7:29 pm
The duergar clears his throat and tries to sit up, but Sarith presses his sword closer and he settles back, "Uh, I suppose it couldn't hurt nothin'" he says, trying to feign nonchalance.
Sep 12, 2017 7:51 pm
"Good!" Hunter claps, smiling wider. "Now, we have a few questions, and we'd love it if you could be as truthful as you can. So let's start with Krimgol. Where is he?"
Sep 13, 2017 12:32 pm
"Krimgol is back at our base," the duergar replies, pointing toward the Southeast, past the market stalls you went by on your way here.
Sep 13, 2017 3:51 pm
OOC:
In the interest of brevity, I will list the questions Hunter would ask. If anyone has other questions, please add them!

Follow-up questions to the duergar's responses pending.
"Why were you sent here? What were your orders?"

"Where is Yantha?"

"What do you know of their transaction? Who else was witness to it?"

"What does Krimgol do? His occupation, or position?"

"What does this gem look like?"
Sep 14, 2017 8:40 am
Poe remains silent, but watches carefully for signs that the man is lying or hiding something.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Sep 14, 2017 5:08 pm
OOC:
In order:
"We was sent to get Krimgol's gem back. Nobody steals from us!"

"Yantha? She's at our base."

"Yantha was supposed to tell Krimgol more about it, but ended up stealin' it!"

Krimgol's one o' our best merchants. Sells alcohol, mostly."

"Gem is black and big as me fist! Gotta be worth ten thousand gold!"

Melpo doesn't think that the duergar seems to be lying, concerned about his life as he is right now.
Sep 14, 2017 5:23 pm
Hunter listens patiently. She then asks, referring to the transaction, "Yantha was supposed to do what, research what it was or how much it was worth? And then you saw her take it and not give it back?"
Sep 14, 2017 7:49 pm
"Yantha was supposed to figure out what magic was on the gem," the duergar responds, "But she decided to run off with it instead."
Sep 14, 2017 8:20 pm
"And where did she go?" asks Hunter. "I mean, you must have seen where, if you've managed to take her back to your place." She gestures to Sarith to allow the duergar to stand, so that the party can talk as they proceed to the enclave that Krimgol is located at.
Sep 15, 2017 12:25 pm
Sarith steps back and the duergar staggers to his feet, "She went back home, o' course! That's why we came!" he says, as if that's obvious. He doesn't begin walking back to his home yet, though.
Sep 15, 2017 3:35 pm
Hunter considers the answer. "And Krimgol just let her go, with the gem, and only after she had left you all embiggened yourselves to smash up their place, kill their people, and after you had captured Yantha and returned her to your base, kept smashing and killing?

"Well it sounds like we need to talk to Krimgol,"
she adds, turning to escort the duergar to the enclave, nodding to Sarith and the others to prod the dwarf should he hesitate. "Ale merchant, you say? Any special reserves?"
Sep 18, 2017 12:01 pm
"Krimgol's always got the good stuff. Gotta talk to him about it, though," he says, reluctantly moving forward when Sarith pokes him. It's a short walk to the duergar enclave, which is surrounded by a mushroom grove, similar to that of the svirfneblin. There are several large, glowing mushrooms which allow you to see that the entrance is slightly damaged, with recent scorch marks and dents placed into it.

There are two duergar guards out front, "Stop there!" they call when you are still about forty feet away, "What do ye want?"
Sep 18, 2017 3:31 pm
Hunter does stop, guiding the duergar next to her. "We want to speak to Krimgol," she states, "about his... transaction."
Sep 19, 2017 7:38 am
Meriele watches Hunter's lead with interest, her eye flicking back and forth between the duergar hostage and the two guards.
Sep 19, 2017 12:25 pm
The duergar look at Hunter suspiciously, then turn and whisper something to the doors, which swing open of their own accord, "Come on in," one of the guards says, "I'll get Krimgol..."
Sep 19, 2017 3:50 pm
Hunter curtsies. She summons all her courage and steps into the enclave.
Sep 19, 2017 5:02 pm
Walking behind Hunter, Mai'ngor keeps his weapons sheathed but he keeps his hands on their hilts as he sweeps his gaze around the druergar enclave.
Sep 19, 2017 11:51 pm
Poe gives Hunter a smile of encouragement as she steps in beside her.
Sep 20, 2017 7:06 am
Meriele follows from the back of the group, unless directed otherwise.
Sep 20, 2017 12:15 pm
You enter into the enclave and they close the doors behind you, keeping your rather large entourage out. "Wait here," one of them says, and walks away. Looking around, you can see that this rough-hewn chamber is very orderly and well laid out. Racks of weapons and armor are all over the place, as well as crates of other goods.

About ten minutes later, the guard returns with another duergar, who is scowling heavily, "What do ye want? I'm busy!" he barks out as he approaches.
Sep 20, 2017 4:03 pm
"You are Krimgol?" asks Hunter, absently tapping her tooth. "We're here about a gnome and a gem."
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Sep 21, 2017 6:49 pm
"Yeah, I met lots o' gnomes before. What about it?" Krimgol asks, growing obviously agitated.

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Sep 21, 2017 7:29 pm
Hunter replies calmly, "Let us speak about a specific gnome, Yantha. Where may we talk?"
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Sep 22, 2017 4:24 am
I give Poe and Meriele a glance. "Pretty obvious, but there's a reason she's the one who talks. I'm no good at that sort of thing, unless you need me to haggle for ya at the shops." At Mai'ngor's discomfort, I poke him to get his attention and whisper "I don't like it either."
Sep 22, 2017 5:26 am
Mai'ngor acknowledges Xeliss with a nod. He seems about to whisper something back but stops himself.
Sep 22, 2017 12:11 pm
"We talk here," Krimgol says simply, "Ye think I don't know what ye're up to? I let ye get me alone and ye'll kill me and steal me stuff. Ain't gonna happen."

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Sep 22, 2017 1:20 pm
"They all seem wrong to me." Mai'ngor replies telepathically to the sword. "Tell me what you sense."
Sep 22, 2017 4:45 pm
"Who says we'll be alone? Our friend here will be with us, too," says Hunter, tipping her head to their duergar captive. "But here is fine."

She clears her throat. "We understand there was a transaction between you and Yantha, regarding the value of a gemstone. Our friend here was kind enough to mention that Yantha is currently here in this enclave, and we would like to speak with her regarding the location of this gem so that we may return it to you. I would prefer that both gnome and gem are unspoiled, as it would make things very easy, don't you think?"

Hunter smiles.
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Sep 22, 2017 4:56 pm
"I went to that lying thief for an appraisal and she stole me gem!" he shouts, spittle spraying over Hunter's robes, "I already been talkin' to her. She don't seem to wanna talk."

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Sep 22, 2017 5:21 pm
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Sep 22, 2017 5:24 pm
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Sep 22, 2017 5:30 pm
With narrowed eyes, Mai'ngor watches Krimgol closely. Sinag is correct, there's something not quite right. Is it magic? Demonic possession? Or just plain greed?

Rolls

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Sep 22, 2017 5:45 pm
"Well, of course," Hunter says casually, as though it should be obvious. Her tone remains pleasant even as her robes are soiled. "I think what we need is a third-party arbiter, someone she would be more willing to speak to rather than your handsome face. Someone who only wants everyone's best interests at heart, as I would like you to recover your gem, and Yantha to recover her name.

"And when this is all done, I would be interested in some of your wares. Our friend here tells me you have a very special inventory, yes?"
Sep 23, 2017 1:23 am
Krimgol stares at Hunter for a minute and then nods, "Go get her," he says to a couple of guards, never taking his eyes off of Hunter.

A few minutes later, the guards return, walking behind a svirfneblin female. She stops about 10 feet away from Hunter and speaks, "What can I do for you?"
Sep 23, 2017 1:24 am
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Sep 23, 2017 2:44 am
As Yantha is being fetched Mai'ngor clears his throat. "Hunter. If I might have a private word with you?"

If Mai'ngor is able to take Hunter aside without upsetting Krimgol he will communicate to her everything that he and Sinag have observed: that there's something not right about Krimgol; he doesn't look like he's merely greedy. This borders on obsession for him, possibly induced by magic.
Last edited September 23, 2017 5:18 am
Sep 23, 2017 3:11 am
"Not right now, yes?" Hunter replies as she points at Mai'ngor, not taking her eyes off Krimgol. However, the gesture triggers Hunter's Message spell to the tikbalang, in which she asks, Yes? before listening to his reply.
[ +- ] Message
Sep 23, 2017 5:20 am
Mai'ngor replies in the privacy of Hunter's spell, "Look at Krimgol's eyes. You will see that he has a crazed look in them. He has a near-fanatical look in his eyes from the moment you mentioned the gem.

There's something not right about Krimgol; he doesn't look like he's merely greedy. This borders on obsession for him, possibly induced by magic."
Last edited September 23, 2017 5:21 am
Sep 23, 2017 7:12 pm
Meriele's eye is narrowed, inspecting both Hunter and Krimgol closely. She turns to one side and calmly steps away from the conversation by just a few feet, enough to not play an active part in the conversation, but to remain in earshot.
Sep 23, 2017 9:05 pm
"Hello. You must be Yantha?" Hunter says to the gnome. "Your dear friend Grimble hoped we'd find you here." She smiles, intentionally using the wrong name to gauge both the reactions of Yantha and the duergar.
Sep 24, 2017 2:01 pm
Poe continues to watch closely the reactions of all involved, looking for odd behaviour or dissembling.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+4)

(1) + 4 = 5

Sep 24, 2017 6:23 pm
Poe doesn't notice anything out of place about anyone's actions.

The duergar don't notice anything odd about the name. Chances are that they don't pay that much attention to the members of the other races.

Yantha raises her eyebrows at the obvious mistake, but doesn't mention it, "Ah yes, my name is Yantha. I hope that Grimble is well?"
Sep 25, 2017 3:58 am
Hunter purses her lips. "Hm, yes," she says, mulling a thought.

"What is this, Krimgol?" she asks, turning to the duergar. "It doesn't look like you have the right gnome. Perhaps the real Yantha is still on the loose?" Hunter sighs with a shake of her head. "This won't do. Krimgol, let us take this mistaken identity back to their enclave, and we will search for the real Yantha. In the meantime, your fellow compatriot can remain here." She gestures to their duergar captive to be released.

"You-who-are-not-Yantha," she continues speaking, now to the gnome, attempting to take control of the situation, "you will take us back to your home and you will tell us what we wish to know. I think you'll agree it will be in your best interest to do so."

Rolls

Persuasion/Deception - (1d20+8)

(5) + 8 = 13

Tides of Chaos (Advantage ability check) - (1d20+8)

(20) + 8 = 28

Sep 25, 2017 9:14 am
Meriele quirks a brow at Hunter, and begins to look concerned.
Sep 25, 2017 1:27 pm
Krimgol sputters, "What do you mean, this ain't the real Yantha?"

Yantha's eyes widen, but she doesn't give any other indication that she's surprised. Unsure what to say, she doesn't say anything at all, but merely nods.
Sep 25, 2017 5:03 pm
"This isn't the first time svirfneblin cleverness has seen the light of phosphorescent fungi, nor do I expect it to be the last," Hunter remarks with a shake of her head, her tone belying experience and resignation. Already she is ushering Yantha towards the door. "I purposefully used the wrong name; only the real Yantha would have detected the falsehood. We deeply apologize for this inconvenience and the unnecessary delay in acquiring your property, and I promise you we will do everything we can to remedy the situation."

She gestures the others to the door. "Your friend there," Hunter says, pointing to the duergar captive that they're leaving behind, "can tell you all about his experiences with the deep gnomes. And I'm sure he can vouch for our vested interest in assisting you with this endeavor."
Sep 25, 2017 5:18 pm
Krimgol reaches out and grabs Yantha's arm, "I don't think so," he growls and tugs her behind him, "Even if this ain't the real one, I ain't givin' her up until I've got me gem back!"
Sep 25, 2017 5:42 pm
"Krimgol," Hunter says, narrowing her eyes, "you've obviously not gotten anywhere with force. Perhaps you ought to let us try a gentler touch?"
Sep 25, 2017 6:22 pm
Mai'ngor steps forward menacingly to lend further weight to Hunter's words (the irony is not lost on him).
Sep 26, 2017 12:22 pm
Krimgol's eyes narrow at the not-so-subtle threat from Mai'ngor, "Nah, I don't think so. Ye'd best get out of here now, before ye get in over yer heads!"
Sep 26, 2017 4:15 pm
"I applaud your cleverness in dangling the easy joke in front of us," Hunter says with a nod, remembering how the grey dwarves are able to enlarge themselves. She sighs, and considers.

"You are a businessman, yes? I'm seeking to do business here as well, but your little tiff is costing me time and money what with all of your friends smashing up the place. You want your gem back, and helping you is going to help myself. Do you accept my help, or not?"
Sep 26, 2017 5:59 pm
Krimgol stops growling so much, "Business, eh? How 'bout this... I keep 'er here with us, unharmed. If ye can find me gem and prove it ain't her who stole it, then ye can take 'er back with ye?"
Sep 26, 2017 6:21 pm
Hunter adds, "Unharmed, and unspoiled."

The sorcerer steps forward. "I am inclined to agree to this, but we will need to speak with your prisoner, alone. It's only natural that someone would be more cooperative if they weren't under constant duress."

She holds up a hand to stop any interruptions. "And just so you can be assured that we mean no trickery... I will take her place during the conference. My associates will gather all the information we need from the gnome, and once that is done we will switch places. Agreed?"
Sep 26, 2017 8:06 pm
Krimgol considers for a moment and then nods, "Get 'em a room, then," he says to the guards, who quickly move to obey. About five minutes later, you are led to a room not far from where you left Krimgol. It is a plain room with a sturdy table in the center and a few chairs.

Yantha looks at you all, sans Hunter, expectantly.
Sep 27, 2017 8:34 am
"Back to being prisoners in the Underdark. Well done, everyone!" grumbles Mai'ngor. "I hope Hunter knows what she's doing."
Last edited September 27, 2017 11:25 am
Sep 27, 2017 9:09 am
Poe smiles reassuringly at Yantha, "We're here to help. Gabble sent us. Can you tell us what happened, from the beginning?"
Sep 27, 2017 10:00 am
Meriele frowns in displeasure at Mai'ngor's comment, and she casts her gaze downward momentarily. It isn't until Poe begins speaking that her attention returns to the others in the room. She takes a seat at the table and listens intently to Yantha's reply.
Sep 27, 2017 3:34 pm
Yantha thinks for a moment, "Ah yes, I remember it clearly. Krimgol had me take his gem to get more information about it. I was on my way back home to check it out when I saw a couple of drow approaching me. Next thing I know, I'm in my own bed and missing the gem! Of course, Krimgol doesn't believe me!"

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Sep 27, 2017 4:12 pm
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Sep 28, 2017 7:08 am
Meriele speaks up, her interest piqued, "What did you notice about the drow you saw? Distinguishing features, type of clothing, symbols on their gear, and that sort of thing." Her gaze remains upon the table surface where she scratches at the wood, deep in thought. "Additionally, be more specific about where you were on your way home, if you can. We would need to examine this area."
OOC:
Edit: Oh boy. :(
Last edited September 28, 2017 7:08 am

Rolls

Doing my best to detect a lie! - (1d20+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Sep 28, 2017 1:53 pm
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Yantha shakes her head, "Not too sure, really. I saw her out of the corner of my eye and then I don't remember any more."

Meriele is pretty sure that Yantha is telling the truth.
Sep 28, 2017 11:53 pm
Poe sighs dramatically. "The trouble is, we cannot help you if you don't tell us the truth...and the full truth."
Sep 29, 2017 1:46 am
Meriele gives Melpomene a sideways glance, deferring to her judgment for now.

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Sep 29, 2017 2:11 am
Yantha's expression darkens, "You think that I'm lying? Why in the nine hells would I lie about this?"
Sep 29, 2017 9:14 am
Poe looks sad, "I do not know, but I am sure that you have good reasons. Perhaps because we are strangers, perhaps because there is far more going on here than a missing gem."
Sep 29, 2017 1:19 pm
[ +- ] Telepathy to Sinag

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Sep 29, 2017 1:31 pm
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"I don't care if you're strangers or not. If that dwarf doesn't get that gem, he's gonna kill me!" she says, totally exasperated.
Sep 30, 2017 3:35 am
"I believe you," Meriele interjects, "We are only trying to figure this out. Are there any other details that you could tell us? Anything else you remember? As you well know, this is important, for your sake."
OOC:
Do I know of any particular group of Drow that operate in this area?
Oct 1, 2017 2:02 am
OOC:
You will know (as will anyone who asked the Zhentarim escort) that there is a drow enclave in Mantol Derith
"If I knew anything else, I'd tell ya! I swear it!" she says with a sad sigh.
Oct 1, 2017 2:41 am
Meriele gives her a nod before sitting back in her seat, indicating that she is content, "I believe I know where we can start, if the rest of you are satisfied."
Oct 1, 2017 5:02 pm
Poe gives the gnome a long look.

Rolls

Insight (is she telling the truth now?) - (1d20+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Oct 1, 2017 10:23 pm
She is telling the truth now as far as Melpomene can tell. She can't help but be suspicious, still.
Oct 3, 2017 6:09 am
Meriele calmly rises from her seat, prepared to depart once the others are ready.
[ +- ] If/When we leave
Oct 3, 2017 10:39 pm
Seeing some of the others are ready to depart, Elfog stands as well.
Oct 5, 2017 2:34 am
Back in the main chamber, Hunter waits patiently, standing in awkward silence with the duergar.

Finally, she turns to Krimgol and asks, "So, I'm told you deal in alcohol. What stock do you carry?"
Oct 5, 2017 4:15 pm
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Yantha nods and smiles as you leave, "Please, don't tarry too long!"

Krimgol seems slightly less stressed when you return and is speaking with Hunter about his wares. He turns to face you when you return, "So, ye learn anything?"
Oct 5, 2017 4:56 pm
OOC:
Wow, totally missed that note, despite reading Yantha's reply.
Oct 6, 2017 7:26 am
"Nothing definitive," Meriele replies, "But we may have a place to start our search." She settles her gaze upon Hunter, and subtly tilts her head in the direction of the exit.
Oct 6, 2017 3:59 pm
Hunter turns to Krimgol and extends her hand. "Darling, thank you for your cooperation. We simply must continue our conversation of wines and whiskeys, and I look forward to a future purchase. I'm sure you understand, but I must tend to business (your business, I might add), and I hope to return to a pleasant transaction without any surprises?" She indicates Yantha to imply the gnome's safety while they are away.
Oct 7, 2017 1:47 am
"No surprises... long as I get me gem!" Krimgol says, snarling now that the discussion has turned back to his gem.
Oct 7, 2017 2:42 am
Meriele watches and waits patiently, exiting with the others when all is said and done.
Oct 7, 2017 2:45 am
Hunter waits expectantly for the doors to open, and will leave the duergar enclave when allowed.
Oct 8, 2017 11:50 pm
The duergar guides open the door and you are able to rejoin the small army that you've led to Mantol-Derith. Savy moves to join you, "What did you discover about this Yantha and Krimgol situation?"
Oct 9, 2017 6:07 am
Meriele turns to the others, directing her explanation to them, rather than Savy, "Yantha was attacked by a pair of Drow on the walk back home, and the gem was stolen. We should keep an eye out for a sign of this attack, but I do not imagine we are likely to find one. We can start at the Drow Enclave in Mantol-Derith."
Oct 9, 2017 11:58 am
More drow. Sigh. "Let’s go then, get this over with."
Oct 9, 2017 4:10 pm
Hunter nods. "Please lead the way to the drow," she asks of Savy.
Oct 10, 2017 1:51 pm
Savy sighs, "This is just getting stranger all the time. Shall we go straight to the drow enclave or do you think we'd be served by stopping and speaking with my associates to see if they have any idea what's going on here? I will defer to your judgment on this matter."
Oct 10, 2017 4:10 pm
"I think that is a good idea," says Hunter. "A few more tidbits of insight might help us track down this gem, or at the very least, suss out the answer to this mess."
Oct 10, 2017 11:35 pm
Poe nods in agreement, "More information would be most helpful."
Oct 11, 2017 1:07 am
"Agreed." Meriele adds.
Oct 11, 2017 1:30 am
"As long as the rest of ye do the talking.." Elfog grumbles.
Oct 11, 2017 5:38 am
Mai'ngor nods wordlessly.
Oct 11, 2017 4:03 pm
You make your way across the bridge and to the other side. You see that, unlike the other enclaves you've seen so far, the Zhentarim have cut down most of the fungus grove outside of the stone doors of their enclave. In it's place is a smattering of tents surrounding a large, covered pavilion.

Savy points at the pavilion, "That's where Ghazrim conducts most of his business," he explains, "The smaller tents are for less important merchants to conduct their sales."

The area here is filled with torches and spells that create light in the area. A number of merchants mill about, sometimes stopping at other tents to speak to the occupants.

Savy leads the seven of you to the pavilion and you enter to find that there are four drow in here. One of them wears fine robes, while the others have fine weapons strapped to their belts. Set in the center of the pavilion is a table full of food and drink, which don't look to have been touched at all. The robed drow glares at you as you enter, "Get out, now," she snarls.
Oct 11, 2017 4:18 pm
"Charming," Hunter smiles sweetly. "We were interested in speaking with someone of importance, but time is precious so I suppose you'll do." She steps further into the pavilion, pulling her own robes closer to avoid knocking over things, and positions herself opposite the drow with the table inbetween.
Oct 12, 2017 12:04 am
Elfog smirks as Hunter addresses the Drow.
Oct 12, 2017 6:32 am
Meriele keeps to the back, but studies the occupants meticulously. She does not appear humored by the "greeting" or the response. Rather, she seems more on edge than anything else.
Last edited October 12, 2017 6:33 am

Rolls

Secret Roll

Oct 12, 2017 2:09 pm
The robed drow narrows her eyes at Hunter, "Out of respect for our hosts," she begins acidly, "I will give you one more chance to leave now before we have to make you leave. We are here by invitation, iblith, and you are not." You recognize the word iblith as the drow word for excrement.

Sarith and Savy step up beside hunter, "Perhaps it's best if we left," Savy begins, "I'd rather not sour trade relationships for my order here."

Sarith nods his agreement, "Think carefully on your next words," he advises, "You don't realize what you're getting into."

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Oct 12, 2017 3:20 pm
"I don't want to be around more drow filth longer than I have to anyway." Mai'ngor mutters, turning to leave.
Oct 12, 2017 4:15 pm
I bite my tongue and stand next to Mai’ngor. I hate them all. Well, almost all.
Oct 12, 2017 4:42 pm
Hunter also narrows her eyes. Without removing her gaze from the drow, she asks Savy in a quiet aside, "Am I to infer that your escort to this tent does not imply an invitation?"

With a resigned huff, she continues on, now turning to face Savy. "Don't answer that now, as I'm sure I won't like it. Very well, if not here, where are we to speak to your associates?"
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Oct 12, 2017 5:58 pm
"This is where Ghazrim conducts his meetings. If they are here, it is on his invitation and, as he is the Zhentarim head here..." he says as he turns to leave, "We will wait until they're gone and then we can speak to him."

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Oct 12, 2017 6:23 pm
Before she leaves, Hunter offers a curtsy and bows her head to the drow guests. She then departs the tent and stands outside, eyes narrow in tumultuous thought, arms folded across her body with her staff in the crook of her elbow.
Oct 12, 2017 8:25 pm
Meriele departs with the others, without a word to the other Drow. Outside, she rubs at the bandage over her eye as she speaks softly, "House Mazelor. A decidedly irrelevant group in the grand scheme. They are from Menzoberranzan, possibly here for trade."
Last edited October 12, 2017 8:26 pm
Oct 12, 2017 9:01 pm
Hunter silently considers the information as it is disclosed. Or perhaps she is simply distracted.
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"Really not so different from certain nobility, eh?" she mutters quietly, a smirk playing at the corner of her lips.
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Hunter closes her eyes, pursing her lips.
Oct 12, 2017 9:12 pm
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Oct 13, 2017 1:50 am
"I take it 'trade' means slaves." Mai'ngor sneers.
Oct 13, 2017 7:39 am
"Possibly," Meriele murmurs offhandedly, "But trade in a very general sense. House Mazelor establishes many of these connections outside of the city of spiders."
Oct 13, 2017 1:12 pm
"Mazelor doesn't have much might, but there money and connections make them a force to be reckoned with," Sarith says, "Try not to do anything to make them angry."
Oct 13, 2017 3:57 pm
Hunter turns away from the others, suppressing a sniffle, and dabs her eyes with her sleeve.
Oct 13, 2017 6:21 pm
"They should be the ones trying not to make us angry," I grumble to Mai’gnor.
Oct 13, 2017 6:33 pm
After waiting a few minutes, you see a small group, containing seven humans and a badly scarred beholder, approach the pavilion. The lead man comes up directly to the group and embraces Savy, "Savy, my friend, I'm glad that you could make it! This shan't take long and I will be back out to discuss matters with you and your companions," he finishes with a bow to the rest of you. He moves by and leads his entourage into the pavilion.
Oct 13, 2017 6:39 pm
Hunter barely acknowledges the new arrivals, lost in thought. She remains near the entrance to the pavilion, however, since there had been no indication that they needed to stay outside of range.
Oct 13, 2017 6:42 pm
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Oct 13, 2017 6:45 pm
Hunter's eyes snap to the beholder's passage, as though just made aware of its existence, but she says nothing.
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Rolls

Secret Roll

Oct 14, 2017 11:26 am
Meriele studies the new arrivals carefully, keeping quiet until they have departed. Immediately after they have left, she turns to Hunter and asks, "What is wrong?"
Oct 14, 2017 4:56 pm
Hunter looks at Meriele, as though being made aware of the drow's presence for the very first time. "What?"

A glimmer of realization cascades across Hunter's features. "Oh. Nothing." She returns to waiting
Oct 14, 2017 11:13 pm
Meriele narrows her gaze in suspicion, and briefly looks to the others for any reaction or odd looks.
Oct 16, 2017 9:28 am
Seeing Meriele's glance, Poe shrugs, still staring after where the beholder was...that was a beholder, wasn't it? An actual beholder.
Oct 16, 2017 12:34 pm
The area is relatively quiet as the meeting is conducted within. Despite being so close to the pavilion, you are convinced that they are using magical means to prevent eavesdropping, since you can't hear anything from within. Suddenly, the flaps of the tent that they are in blow open and heat washes over you. Looking inside, you can see that the Zhentarim are in open battle against the drow and the ground is scorched from a detonating fireball.

The beholder is blasting the drows with his eye beams while the drow attempt to take down their foes. Ghazrim is on the ground, clutching his torn chest as his life-blood pours out. As you decide what to do, you see one of the drow warriors slice open the back of the tent and climb out.

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Oct 16, 2017 2:38 pm
"There!" Mai'ngor hisses, pointing out the fleeing drow. "She has stolen something. She is our quarry." Without another word the tikbalang chases after the dark elf.
Oct 16, 2017 5:16 pm
I follow after the horseman, hoping to avoid whatever confrontation is taking place inside...
Oct 16, 2017 5:24 pm
Hunter curses, "Damn them to the Abyss!" She trusts Mai'ngor to handle the task, while she runs as fast as she can to Ghazrim on the ground, popping the stopper from one of her vials of healing. Amidst the battle, she pours the contents into Ghazrim's mouth to stave off the man's death.

Rolls

Potion of Healing - (2d4+2)

(33) + 2 = 8

Oct 16, 2017 10:27 pm
With Xeliss and Mai'ngor in pursuit of the fleeing Drow, Elfog unhooks his axe and moves to cover Hunter. "He going to make it?" he asks, keeping his eyes open for any threats.
Oct 17, 2017 6:42 am
Meriele curses at the fleeing drow, "Wael!" The archer narrows her gaze upon her quarry, and her eye flashes with an unnatural intensity. Immediately afterwards, she has her bow drawn, ready to aid the Beholder in its battle within the tent.
OOC:
If able, I'd like to cast Hunter's Mark on the fleeing drow.
Oct 17, 2017 9:24 am
Poe runs around the melee to get in sight of the fleeing drow, swinging her lyre down as she goes, and plays a single commanding chord then points at the dark elf.
[ +- ] Hold Person
Oct 17, 2017 2:27 pm
As Hunter rushes into the room and charges its companion, it reacts and sends a ray of energy from one of its eye stalks.
OOC:
DC 16 Wis save or be paralyzed for 1 minute. You can make an additional save at the end of each of your rounds
Already dealing with so much from the drow, it isn't able to free up any firepower to attack Elfog.

Meriele marks her prey and then moves to assist the beholder and the other Zhentarim.

Melpomene casts her spell, but the drow is not affected and keeps on running.

As Mai'ngor and Xeliss chase after, a greyish, winged monstrosity swoops down and blocks their way. You recognize it as a gargoyle, "You will not hurt my love!" it screeches before moving to attack you.

It rushes forth and claws and bites at Mai'ngor, but is unable to connect.
OOC:
Mai'ngor/Xeliss turn vs Gargoyle

Others can engage with the drow if they want to (especially after seeing the beholder attack Hunter)
Oct 17, 2017 2:28 pm
Three of the humans besides Ghazrim are down and one of the drow is. They other warrior looks in bad shape, but the wizard looks fine.
Oct 17, 2017 3:41 pm
Hunter attempts to push through the paralyzing effects.

Rolls

Wisdom Save - (1d20+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Oct 17, 2017 3:52 pm
"I’ll take care of this." I run towards the gargoyle and leap, shifting into the form of a giant eagle in midair. With one claw I attempt to grab it and hold it in place.

The shield guardian stands by Hunter, awaiting additional orders (or awaiting its spell trigger).
Last edited October 17, 2017 4:32 pm

Rolls

Talon attack - (1d20+5, 2d6+3)

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

2d6+3 : (25) + 3 = 10

Oct 17, 2017 10:24 pm
His adrenaline pumping, Elfog grips his axe tight with both hands. "We're on your side, Eyeball!!" he growls as he rushes past the Beholder to engage any Drow unlucky enough to get into his path.
[ +- ] Combat Stats:

Rolls

Tolvihar Attack #1 - (1d20+10, 1d20+10, 1d12+7)

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

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

1d12+7 : (4) + 7 = 11

Tolvihar Attack #2 (Extra Attack) - (1d20+10, 1d20+10, 1d12+7)

1d20+10 : (12) + 10 = 22

1d20+10 : (16) + 10 = 26

1d12+7 : (12) + 7 = 19

Oct 18, 2017 3:30 am
OOC:
Mai'ngor intends to run right past the gargoyle (yes, I'll take the OA). How far away is the fleeing drow at this point?
Oct 18, 2017 5:14 am
Meriele targets the same Drow as Elfog, should it still stand. As she draws back upon her simple longbow, the arrow nocked begins to glow and hum with energy. Releasing the string, the arrow leaves a white trail as it curves around the Dwarf, toward its intended target.

After her first strike, Meriele's barrage continues, targeting the warrior if it lives, or the wizard otherwise.
OOC:
Naatkinson, might be a crazy question, but has it been more than an hour since our last fight with the duergar?
[ +- ] Attack/Damage numbers
Last edited October 18, 2017 5:24 am

Rolls

Attack #1 vs Drow w/ Sharpshooter - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d8+18)

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

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

1d8+18 : (6) + 18 = 24

Colossus Slayer dmg - (1d8)

(6) = 6

Attack #2 vs Drow w/ Sharpshooter - (1d20+6, 1d20+6, 1d8+18)

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

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

1d8+18 : (3) + 18 = 21

Colossus Slayer #2 (if applicable) - (1d8)

(5) = 5

Oct 18, 2017 5:18 pm
Hunter is paralyzed mere feet from Ghazrim. The potion in her hand that would have saved his life goes unused as he slips from this world.

Elfog rushes in and, with two mighty chops from his axe, cuts down one of the drow warriors.

Meriele's arrow strikes the drow mage. She grunts in pain and prepares to cast a spell. Before she can get too far, Sairth appears from nowhere and his rapier exits the front of her chest.

Xeliss, in bird format, manages to get hold of the gargoyle and hold it in place.

Mai'ngor rushes past the gargoyle, which takes a swipe at him as he passes by. The attack misses, leaving Mai'ngor free to catch up to the drow.
OOC:
This little snafu appears to be over. It had been over an hour, probably. The beholder and two of the men are still alive and Mai'ngor has the drow escapee captured
Oct 18, 2017 5:35 pm
Hunter's eyes are frozen in an expression of panic, but it masks the seething flames rising up the sides of her face.
[ +- ] Current Statistics

Rolls

Wisdom Save, if this counts as end of next turn - (1d20+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Oct 18, 2017 8:01 pm
"Stop!" Mai'ngor commands, making a grab for the fleeing drow.

Rolls

Grapple attempt (Athletics) - (1d10+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Oops! With a d20 this time! - (1d20+4)

(9) + 4 = 13

Oct 19, 2017 12:44 am
The drow struggles against Mai'ngor's grip, but can't escape. She screams for help, but no one comes to her aid. The sounds of battle from inside the tent are gone now, replaced by the pained moans of the wounded.
Oct 19, 2017 12:56 am
"What's that in your hand?" Mai'ngor demands as he drags the squirming drow back to the tent. Sinag springs to life in his hand, enveloping tikbalang and elf in bright sunlight.
Oct 19, 2017 12:59 am
The drow's only answer is to spit in Mai'ngor's face as she tries to wiggle out of his firm grasp. She tries reaching for the many daggers she has stowed on her body, but the tikbalang warrior easily prevents the attempts.
OOC:
Seems odd to think about, but being at level 8 you guys are probably in the top 10% of adventurers in the Realms...
Oct 19, 2017 9:22 am
Poe glides over to Hunter and plays a soothing melody with one hand as she touches her shoulder.
OOC:
Casting Lesser Restoration
Oct 19, 2017 11:45 am
Meriele moves toward Ghazrim, only to see that he has passed on. Her expression darkens, and she diverts her attention to the Beholder. "What happened?" She asks the creature, fixing her bow back over her arm.
Oct 19, 2017 2:26 pm
The beholder turns to look at Meriele and then to the arrows sticking out of the chests of the other drow. It pauses a moment, as if thinking, before speaking in a terrible rasping voice, "The drow wanted to meet and divide the control of this place now that the svirfneblin and duergar presence is diminished. They turned on us just after we entered. Miserable wretches seeking to enhance their own positions."
Oct 19, 2017 4:11 pm
Freed from paralysis, Hunter's fist clenches around the potion, white knuckles threatening to shatter the glass. Flush with anger, she slowly puts the potion back into her bag, closes her eyes, and takes a deep breath.

"Does anyone else know the way to Gravenhollow?" she asks aloud in an even tone.
Oct 19, 2017 5:42 pm
Mai'ngor continues to drag the drow kicking and screaming towards the tent. On the way he passes Xeliss and the captured gargoyle. "Best bring that one too."
Oct 20, 2017 1:30 am
The men shake their head and the beholder replies in the negative, "He said he had a map of some kind," one of the men says, "Wouldn't say no more than that..."

As the drow and gargoyle struggle, you notice that Ghazrim has an amulet which has a star ruby in it. It is obviously worth quite a bit of gold. It looks like he was reaching up to grab it when he died.
Oct 20, 2017 2:29 am
Hunter kneels at the body of Ghazrim, reaching down to brush the hair from the man's face. "We were to meet him for direction there, at the request of Davra Jassur," she says, her tone both offended and resigned. Her hand traces Ghazrim's cheek and her finger tucks into the chain around his neck, caressing the links until she touches the amulet. "One of you find his room and bring whatever maps he might have had."
Last edited October 20, 2017 2:29 am
Oct 20, 2017 2:35 am
Hunter's fingers, so attuned to magic, tingle with the magic of his amulet.

The men look hesitant to obey, at least until Savy walks in and waves them away, "Right away, miss," one of them says with a bow before he disappears.

Savy sighs, "Now, what shall we do with these two?" he asks, indicating the captured drow and gargoyle.
Oct 20, 2017 3:39 am
Hunter looks over at Mai'ngor. "You said she had stolen something?" She looks over the drow prisoner in his grasp.
Oct 20, 2017 11:49 pm
You can all see that she is clutching a large black gem in her hand. When you mention it, she pulls her hand close to her body, "Let me go!" she shouts, renewing her struggles.
Oct 21, 2017 12:09 am
"There's a certain dwarf that's been looking for similar gem," says Hunter. Heading off any protest from the drow, Hunter adds, "Hand it over, or we'll take it from your dead body. Or even better, hold onto it while we take you back to the duergar." The half-elf shrugs. "Honestly, I don't rightly care whether you live or die, as you've made our lives rather difficult with your petty excuse for a dinner party."

As she speaks, Hunter tries to find the clasp and remove the amulet from Ghazrim's neck.
Oct 21, 2017 1:38 am
As I approach and see Ghazrim's condition, I fling the gargoyle aside and drop next to him. "Wake up!"
OOC:
I forgot I had a healing spell. Not sure if it'll still work at this point since it's been a while.

Rolls

Healing Word? - (1d4+3)

(2) + 3 = 5

Oct 22, 2017 1:23 am
The drow spits on Hunter, "You are filth! This gem is mine by right and you will not take it from me!"

Xeliss' magic washes over the dead body, knitting some of his wounds up, but she is not able to restore his soul to his body.
Oct 22, 2017 1:42 am
"Is spitting an Underdark custom?" Hunter asks rhetorically as she absently brushes off the globule with Prestidigitation. She seems nonplussed by the physical and verbal insults as she takes Ghazrim's amulet and slips it into her robes.

She rises to her feet and looks the drow prisoner over. Hunter studies the woman's face, sizes up her body and her equipment, and finally says to Mai'ngor, "Fine. Kill her, if you like."
Oct 22, 2017 6:26 am
Meriele looks disapprovingly at Hunter, and then at the captive drow. The archer crosses her arms and states, "I do not imagine I am the only one with questions left to ask, before there are executions."
Oct 22, 2017 6:37 am
Mai'ngor raises an eyebrow at Hunter, but does raise Sinag as if to strike. He watches both the drow and the gargoyle's reactions.
Last edited October 22, 2017 6:38 am

Rolls

Intimidation (advantage, maybe?) - (1d20+2, 1d20+2)

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

1d20+2 : (12) + 2 = 14

Insight - (1d20+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Oct 22, 2017 7:25 am
Hunter has turned away from the captured drow, the prisoner's life now considered insignificant. "What questions?" she asks, not expecting an answer. "She has the gem. Return it to the dwarf and free the gnome. Since she won't willingly give it up, take it from her corpse."

The sorcerer walks over to Melpomene during this, and stands close to the tiefling to pass along an amulet and a whisper. "Take a look at this for me," she mutters, lips barely moving. "There is something arcane about it, and it seemed important to Ghazrim."
Oct 22, 2017 8:09 am
"Such as why she has the gem," Meriele suggests, despite expectation. "If she stole it from Yantha, then why? And why did she bring it here? Why is she willing to lose her life over it?" Once more, Meriele has to shield her eyes from Sinag's light.
Last edited October 22, 2017 8:11 am
Oct 22, 2017 8:37 am
Hunter has the stature and air of someone who does not care for the why. However, she does not interfere with anyone who wishes to sate their curiosity. She waits, impatiently, focused more on Melpomene than the prisoners.
Oct 22, 2017 8:40 am
Meriele instead turns her expectant gaze to the prisoner, assuming she had heard her questions.
Oct 22, 2017 10:22 am
Poe accepts the amulet with a nod, but pauses before beginning her examination. She suggests, "The gem was probably originally stolen to sow conflict between the duergar and svirfneblin. The drow were proposing an alliance to wipe them out in their weakness; it is reasonable to presume they engineered that weakness in the first place."

"However, the behaviour of those in possession of the gem is unusual. Perhaps it is more than a gem. I would suggest avoiding directly touching it."

She turns her attention to the amulet that Hunter passed to her.

She turns her attention to the amulet.

Rolls

Arcana - (1d20+5)

(12) + 5 = 17

Oct 23, 2017 3:22 am
The drow scowls and shakes her head, "I didn't take it. It was given to me freely," she insists, still struggling against Mai'ngor's grip.

Melpomene examines the amulet and senses a powerful aura of Divination magic around it.

Sarith slips out of the tent, "Going to take a quick look around," he says before disappearing.
Oct 23, 2017 5:29 am
Meriele ponders Poe's suggestion, "Seems awfully convenient for them, unless they planted the gem in the first place. Regardless, I agree, something is off about it." Meriele speaks, crossing her arms. Turning to the Drow, she asks, "Who gave it to you? Why do you want it so badly?"
Oct 23, 2017 6:21 am
Leaving the amulet in Melpomene's hands and the prisoner in Meriele's, Hunter steps to the food-laden table. Absently, she picks up a fork and twirls its tines upon the tabletop as she looks over what passes for Underdark cuisine.
Oct 23, 2017 6:26 am
Mai'ngor catches Elfog's eye and cocks his head in Hunter's direction with a worried look.
Oct 23, 2017 9:36 pm
The drow scowls more deeply, "It was given to me as advance payment for killing that dammed beholder!" she says, then glances at the gargoyle, which hasn't moved at all, "That one there gave it to me."

The gargoyle turns quickly to look at the drow, a look of pain on its face, "No! I gave it to you as a token of my deep love for you, beautiful Kinyel!" it says in a deep raspy voice.

The drow, Kinyel, stares at the gargoyle, a look of clear confusion on her face.

You see a feast of mushrooms in some sort of sauce, what appears to be beef, as well as some surface vegetables put together in a soup.
Oct 23, 2017 10:11 pm
Hunter checks to see what passes for bread in this outpost, but she spares at glance at the beholder to gauge its reaction to the confessed assassination attempt.
Oct 24, 2017 2:42 pm
I walk towards Melpomene and look at the amulet. "What is it?"
Oct 24, 2017 9:21 pm
The beholder's reaction is hard to gage, foreign as its mannerisms are. If you had to guess, you'd say that it was unconcerned by the words of the drow.

There is a large loaf of bread, which is covered in oats and seeds. Based on the fact that it's still warm, you'd guess that it's fresh.
Oct 24, 2017 10:23 pm
Hunter picks up the large loaf of bread and conducts her own evaluation. Finally, she looks at the beholder and asks, "What happens now?" She waves the loaf at the bodies of the drow to give context to her question, which isn't intended to take over the group's discussion of gemstones, gargoyles, and amulets.
Oct 24, 2017 11:10 pm
Melpomene shows the amulet to Xeliss, "Ghazrim's amulet. It has a divination magic cast upon it."
Oct 27, 2017 2:04 am
"I do not know," the beholder says, "It seems that this place is ripe for us to expand our influence, so that is what we shall do. For now, it would seem that he is in charge," it finishes, indicating Savy.

Savy pales, "Argh!" he says, frustrated, "Seems like I'm highest on the chain of command, so I will hold this place together while I wait for Ghazrim's replacement."

"For now, let's return the stone and then we can rest," he suggests.
Oct 27, 2017 3:13 am
Hunter nods to Savy, sparing another glance at the beholder to memorize its details. She turns away and walks back to the others, slipping the fork and loaf of bread into her robes, and looks to see what has developed in terms of the gemstone and drow.

Rolls

Sleight of Hand - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Oct 27, 2017 3:23 am
I stare into the amulet and attempt to determine what type of divination magic it contains, and whether it is dangerous.

Rolls

Arcana - (1d20+4)

(18) + 4 = 22

Oct 27, 2017 9:12 am
"I feel we need to clarify some things about the gem. Could you bring the prisoners?" Meriele asks both Mai'ngor and Xeliss.
OOC:
Thanks for your patience. I should be back to normal now.
Last edited October 27, 2017 9:12 am
Oct 27, 2017 9:19 am
Mai'ngor nods and brings the drow prisoner.
[ +- ] Telepathically to Sinag
Oct 27, 2017 4:03 pm
Hunter asks, "Why? It's obvious that's the gem that the duergar wants returned. How it came to be in her possession is something Krimgol can determine on his own time.

"Mai'ngor implied it himself when he wondered why we were going out of our way to pursue this gem. I thought that resolving this would make it easier to find Ghazrim and get out of here, but obviously my intuition failed and it's turned into a complete waste of time. And now the one man who could give us direction is dead."
Oct 28, 2017 12:51 am
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Oct 28, 2017 7:04 am
[ +- ] Telepathically to Sinag
Oct 28, 2017 11:28 am
"I believe this is the right choice. I do not lead here, and if there is a disagreement, I will not contest." She explains, "But if it makes no difference, I believe we might glean something that could be of use by keeping them alive for a bit longer."
Oct 28, 2017 4:50 pm
"Fine, ask your questions," says Hunter. She returns to the table and picks up a goblet, giving its contents a sniff to determine what sort of beverage is within.
Oct 29, 2017 1:52 am
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Hunter can tell that the drink in the goblet is wine. It smells absolutely heavenly.
Oct 29, 2017 7:23 am
Hunter takes a sip, cradling the goblet in her hand as she watches the interrogation from close by.
CancerMan sent a note to Naatkinson
Oct 29, 2017 12:13 pm
"I only meant that we should bring them to our destination, to get to the bottom of this with all participants present."
Oct 29, 2017 12:28 pm
"There is a dark evil here. It festers while we embroil ourselves with these factions and their petty squabbles." Mai'ngor growls.
Oct 29, 2017 5:51 pm
"Then let's get moving," says Hunter. She turns to Savy and says, "We'll be back for that map." Rejoining the others and prodding them towards the duergar compound, Hunter takes another sip from the goblet still in her hand.
Oct 29, 2017 10:41 pm
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Oct 30, 2017 1:01 am
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Oct 31, 2017 8:55 am
Meriele quirks a brow and asks Mai'ngor, "What, exactly, are you referring to?"

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Oct 31, 2017 1:47 pm
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Oct 31, 2017 3:58 pm
"I do not know exactly, but I can feel it, and so can Sinag." Mai'ngor replies, gesturing with the sword.
Oct 31, 2017 4:39 pm
"His girlfriend has done all right by us so far, so I am also inclined to believe them," Hunter explains, defending Mai'ngor's relationship with the blade. She drains the goblet as the group heads to the duergar enclave, then stows it in her bag as her cheeks and sinuses flush with warmth.
Last edited October 31, 2017 4:39 pm
Nov 1, 2017 3:55 am
"Well, what are we supposed to do about it?"
Nov 1, 2017 5:03 am
Mai'ngor shrugs. "You saw what I did to the duergar. It was folly -- but I do not know what else to do."
Nov 3, 2017 2:31 am
The drow, gem still in hand, struggles more and more as you approach the Duergar enclave. As the guards come into sight, she reaches into a hidden pocket and pulls a dagger, stabbing at Mai'ngor. He attack is pushed slightly wide as the tikbalang reacts on instinct, shoving the blade away from his body. It still manages to cut him a bit, but it's not a bad injury (24 vs AC. 6 damage)
Nov 5, 2017 5:07 pm
Mai'ngor hisses as the blade connects. Sheathing Sinag, the tikbalang disarms the drow prisoner and also tries to take the gem from her hand.
Nov 6, 2017 2:48 am
As Mai'ngor's fingers wrap around the gem, he feels a surge of energy pulse up his arm. The drow's dagger falls to the ground and skids off into the darkness as the tikbalang knocks it from her hand.

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Nov 6, 2017 4:51 am
"This! This is the dark power! Mai'ngor exclaims, holding up the gem, "I say we destroy it!"
Nov 6, 2017 6:13 am
Turning to face the drow, Hunter stamps her staff upon the ground and twists her other hand upward into a clenched fist.
[ +- ] Maximilian's Earthen Grasp

Rolls

Strength Save DC 16, Bludgeoning Damage - (2d6)

(51) = 6

Nov 6, 2017 4:38 pm
OOC:
Don't forget the wild magic roll :)
Nov 6, 2017 5:24 pm
OOC:
Ack, I meant to include that. WIll do it now!

Rolls

Wild Magic! - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Nov 6, 2017 5:35 pm
As the drow begins to try to run away, a stone hand reaches up out of the ground and grabs hold of her. She cries out in pain and struggles against the magical stone arm.
OOC:
You've NEVER rolled and actually gotten a wild magic surge, it's ridiculous! lol
Nov 6, 2017 5:48 pm
OOC:
I know she cut Mai'ngor but didn't realize she'd broken the grapple. I'm glad Hunter caught her again!
Nov 6, 2017 6:28 pm
OOC:
I figured since you went after the gem, you sorta released your hold on the drow.
"Someone get those guards," says Hunter, "before this one breaks free of my bond. Or don't, especially if Mai'ngor wishes to destroy the gem we need to exchange for the gnome's life. I don't mind, either way..."

Her voice trails off at the end, staring at the drow in her earthen grasp. Hunter tightens her still-clenched fist, a smile growing in the corner of her lips.
OOC:
Hunter will continue to squeeze the hand to apply 2d6 bludgeoning damage, so long as the drow is restrained within.
Nov 6, 2017 7:07 pm
The drow grunts under the pressure of the stone hand, her bones beginning to be crushed under the great pressure.

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Nov 6, 2017 7:17 pm
Hunter's eye pop wide and her knees buckle. Were it not for her staff, she would likely fall to the ground. There is a strange sound from her throat as she struggles to keep something down, and her eyes water as she tries to maintain her focus on the magical manifestation surrounding the drow.
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Rolls

Concentration Check - (1d20+5)

(11) + 5 = 16

Nov 6, 2017 7:33 pm
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Nov 6, 2017 8:02 pm
"Helpless? Hardly," spits Hunter, gasping in breath.
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Nov 7, 2017 12:47 am
"What's going on?!" Mai'ngor snarls, seeing Hunter in distress and recognizing an arcane duel. Sinag flares to life anew in the tikbalang's hand as he surges forward and slaps at the drow with the flat of the blade.
Last edited November 7, 2017 12:47 am

Rolls

Attack, advantage, nonlethal damage - (1d20+10, 1d20+10, 1d8+7)

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

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

1d8+7 : (6) + 7 = 13

Crit damage - (1d8)

(8) = 8

Nov 7, 2017 3:40 am
As Mai'gnor holds the gem aloft, I focus my arcane energy onto it and attempt to negate its dark magics.
OOC:
Attempting to Dispel Magic

Rolls

Dispell roll? - (1d20+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Nov 7, 2017 10:27 am
Pulling forward her lyre, Melpomene begins to play a soothing melody in a major chord.
OOC:
Casting countercharm...everyone in our party now resistant to being charmed or frightened.
Nov 7, 2017 11:04 am
Meriele watches intently, keeping a bit of a distance.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Nov 7, 2017 2:12 pm
Sinag flares as it strikes the drow. She grunts in pain and then falls limp, unconscious.

Xeliss' spell washes over the gem. She feels a backlash of dark energy wash over her from the gem. She feels drained suddenly and Mai'ngor feels a surge of warmth from the gem in his hand.
OOC:
Xeliss gains a level of exhaustion
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Nov 9, 2017 5:07 am
Hunter slowly straightens, leaning on her staff. She continues to hold the unconscious drow and moves the earthen fist closer towards the duergar enclave. "Let's get this over with," she says, and looks to Mai'ngor to see what the tikbalang decides to do.
Nov 10, 2017 11:24 am
Meriele furrows her brow, briefly looking around at the others before her concerned gaze settles upon Hunter. "Something is not right," she says aloud, firmly, gesturing to the sorceress, "You seem unstable. It is as though you are half here and half elsewhere. Before we continue, I urge you to tell us: What is the matter?"
Nov 10, 2017 2:32 pm
"She's been like that since before we met you." Mai'ngor murmurs to Meriele. "It's that necklace she's wearing. Think nothing of it..for now." The tikbalang walks over to Hunter and gives her the gem. "I still think that should to be destroyed. But if we need it to trade for the gnome's life then do what you must. Then let us leave this accursed place."
Nov 10, 2017 4:25 pm
Hunter removes her green sari-like sash and uses it to cradle the gem, trying as much as possible to avoid touching it with her bare skin. Now clad in her simple white acolyte robes, she says, "Yantha might be Xeliss' fourth cousin for all we know. Besides, once we've settled our agreement and Yantha is in our custody, nothing would hold you back from destroying the gem thereafter." Hunter ignores the references to herself.
Nov 11, 2017 1:35 am
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Nov 11, 2017 1:47 am
Meriele does not seem satisfied by the explanation, but has better sense than to press further.
Nov 11, 2017 1:53 am
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Rolls

Secret Roll

Nov 11, 2017 2:06 am
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Nov 13, 2017 5:12 pm
Hunter slings the gem over her shoulder like a parcel and resumes her approach to the duergar enclave.

"You got her?" she asks of Mai'ngor, referring to the drow being restrained by her earthen hand. Already the rock begins to crumble away as the spell wears off.
Nov 13, 2017 5:23 pm
Hunter dismisses the arcane elemental hand, releasing the drow like a discarded toy. She walks towards the guards.
Nov 13, 2017 11:49 pm
The duergar are ready for you as you approach and signal for the doors to be opened. Once the doors open, you find a very impatient Krimgol waiting with a couple of guards. He sees you enter and storms over, "Did ye find me gem!?" he asks, obviously agitated.
Nov 14, 2017 2:56 am
"Do ye have me gnome?" Hunter asks in reply.
Nov 16, 2017 11:44 pm
Krimgol nods and waves to the guards, who disappear for a moment, "That didn't take ye long," he comments, seeming almost suspicious, "Lucky ye came around when ye did, eh?"
Nov 17, 2017 12:13 am
Hunter shrugs. "For you, perhaps," she says, tone belying some frustration with recent events. "Regardless, I think you will appreciate the added bonus; we have the person responsible for stealing your precious gem." She points back at Mai'ngor and the unconscious drow.
[ +- ] Message cantrip to Mai'ngor
Nov 17, 2017 12:36 am
"I think that she will have to be punished," he says with malice in his eyes and a dark smile on his lips. Just a moment later, Yantha is led out and to the side of Krimgol. He holds out a hand, "Give me the gem and I will give ye the prisoner."
Nov 17, 2017 2:34 am
Hunter nods, unslinging her makeshift satchel from her shoulder. She unwraps the large gem and holds it in her hands, now cradling the stone with her green sash that falls across her arms. "Visually, can you verify this is the gem in question? Please be quick, I dare not leave it exposed for long, lest another seek to steal it from you again." She stands ready to cover up the stone again with her sash once Krimgol gives his assent.
Nov 18, 2017 1:11 am
Mai'ngor is uncertain what Hunter is planning but he puts his trust in the sorceress and follows her lead.
Nov 18, 2017 1:29 am
Krimgol nods, "Aye, that's the one!" he says, stepping forward and reaching out to grab it.
Nov 18, 2017 2:33 am
Hunter holds the gem still in one hand, her other clasped around her staff. "Speaking of your luck, you'll be happy to know that the drow did reveal something special about this gem. When you utter this phrase in Elvish..." she says, and switches her language not to Elvish, but rather the arcane words of her Banishment spell.
[ +- ] Banishment, Charisma Save DC 16
OOC:
Casting Banishment on Krimgol, using 2 sorcery points to apply Bend Luck as a penalty to his saving throw in case it's necessary.
Last edited November 18, 2017 2:34 am

Rolls

Bend Luck - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Wild Magic - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Deception, if needed - (1d20+8)

(7) + 8 = 15

Nov 20, 2017 1:50 am
As magic surges forth from Hunter too quickly for Krimgol and his guards to react, his eyes pop wide and he begins to fade away. Before he disappears, he suddenly jolts fully back to the material plane, hand closing on the gem. He yanks it out of Hunter's hand and staggers back, "What did ye do to me, witch!?"
OOC:
Legitimately got a natural 20, which was the only roll that would have succeeded
Nov 20, 2017 2:47 am
"Me?!" Hunter says, lowering her hand as Krimgol takes his possession. "It's your gem!"
OOC:
Damn dwarf. The one roll I was hoping he'd not get.
Last edited November 20, 2017 2:51 am
Nov 21, 2017 3:44 pm
OOC:
I wonder if Mai'ngor is going to try something?
Nov 21, 2017 4:06 pm
Hunter tsks disapprovingly at Krimgol, looking offended at the dwarf's accusation. As though turning her nose away from the ungrateful duergar, Hunter checks where Yantha is.
Nov 21, 2017 5:03 pm
Naatkinson says:
OOC:
I wonder if Mai'ngor is going to try something?
OOC:
Not until Yantha's safe.
Nov 21, 2017 5:35 pm
Krimgol narrows his eyes suspiciously, but shoves Yantha toward you anyway, "Get yer gnome and get out," he growls.
Nov 21, 2017 6:14 pm
Hunter reaches out to Yantha and guides her towards the back of the group. "Darling, are you all right?" she says in a motherly tone, lifting the gnome's chin to inspect her face.
Nov 22, 2017 2:48 pm
Yantha looks confused by Hunter's motherly ministrations, but doesn't complain. She sighs sadly, "I'm fine, just tired I guess."

The gnome looks to be in good shape, though her clothing is disheveled as if she was handled none too delicately. She doesn't appear to have any wounds that you can see, however.
Nov 22, 2017 3:25 pm
Mai'ngor gestures to the captive drow. "What do you want to do with this one?" he asks his companions, particularly Hunter, Meriele and Sarith. "She may be a thief but I'd rather not hand her over to the likes of him." the tikbalang says, motioning towards Krimgol.
Nov 22, 2017 3:28 pm
Krimgol seems to have forgotten all about the drow as he absently runs his fingers over the gem that's been returned to him. He is staring blankly into space and seems to have totally forgotten you are even there. His guards shift nervously from foot to foot, unsure what they should be doing.
Nov 22, 2017 3:35 pm
OOC:
How many guards? Sorry I've forgotten.
Nov 22, 2017 4:31 pm
Hunter continues to guide Yantha to the back, interposing the group between her and the duergar. "I care not," she says in response to Mai'ngor's question. "Quench your blade's thirst if you like, or put her up for redemption while watching our backs. I wish to return this one safely home, and then see if our Zhentarim friends have found that map."

As though confirming her lack of concern for the prisoner, the sorcerer looks at Melpomene and Xeliss. "Have you managed to identify that amulet's properties? I thought I overheard something about divination; perhaps it can divine us a clue?"
Nov 23, 2017 2:44 am
OOC:
The guards consist of the two that let you into the enclave, the two personal guards of Krimgol, and Krimgol himself
Nov 23, 2017 5:32 pm
"Quench my blade's thirst, I shall." Mai'ngor replies to Hunter. Shoving the drow prisoner towards the others, the tikbalang turns and charges towards the enraptured Krimgol. Sinag's bright blade springs to life in his hand as he charges, bathing the hall in blinding radiance. Upon reaching Krimgol, Mai'ngor strikes -- not at the dwarf, but at the gem!

Rolls

Sinag 2-handed vs. the gem - (1d20+10, 1d10+7)

1d20+10 : (1) + 10 = 11

1d10+7 : (5) + 7 = 12

Sinag 2-handed vs. the gem - (1d20+10, 1d10+7)

1d20+10 : (14) + 10 = 24

1d10+7 : (9) + 7 = 16

Nov 24, 2017 3:14 pm
Mai'ngor moves more quickly that the guards can react, swinging at the gem. Krimgol, absorbed by the gem, barely notices in time to stumble away from the first attack, dropping the gem in the process. His target within easy reach, Mai'ngor smashes Sinag into the gem, which flares with a dark light for a moment before shattering.

A scream erupts from the gem, followed by laughter as a demon-shaped apparition streams out of the gem before disappearing. The oppressive feeling that you'd gotten seems to have dispersed, while Krimgol and his duergar companions stare confusedly at where the gem used to be.

Sinag is brighter now than it was before you shattered the gem, bathing the whole chamber in a bright light. Sarith hisses in pain and covers his eyes.

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Nov 24, 2017 3:33 pm
Mai'ngor watches the demonic apparition dissipate. Did he just unwittingly release a demon from its prison, enabling it to now wreak havoc on the world? Then again, judging by the oppression just lifted from this place it would seem the demon was wreaking havoc just fine while inside the gem.

"Come." the tikbalang says to his companiins while keeping an eye on the confused duergar. "Let's leave."
Nov 24, 2017 5:23 pm
Hunter ushers Yantha away, quickening her pace. She heads for the svirfneblin enclave.
Nov 25, 2017 10:54 pm
Meriele shields her eyes from Sinag's light, content to depart swiftly. She squints carefully and eyes her fellow Drow after Mai'ngor shoved her, but looks decided upon not mentioning or acknowledging her further.
Nov 27, 2017 2:37 pm
Yantha follows along with you, pushing out past the guards who are just now recovering from their surprise as well as the bright light. As you rush away, you can hear Krimgol shouting curses.

You stagger into the Svirfneblin enclave a few minutes later and Gabble is there to meet you, rushing out to embrace Yantha. When they separate several seconds later, you can see tears running down both of their faces.

Gabble bows deeply, "Thank you for getting my friend back," she begins, "If there is anything that I can do for you, just say the word."

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Nov 27, 2017 4:53 pm
Hunter smiles happily, her face filled with a warm glow. "You are more than welcome," she says, beaming. "I've fond memories of Blingdenstone; even if you do not count yourselves as her citizens, I am happy to help her cousins in this dark place. In fact, if you haven't yet been to the city, I do recommend a visit. Things were looking very well and prosperous when we had the honor of being her guests."
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Nov 27, 2017 6:55 pm
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Nov 30, 2017 5:56 am
Sparing a glance over her shoulder for any approaching duergar, Hunter takes her leave of the svirfneblin. "Let's find Savy," she says, looking to rejoin the Zhentarim escorts. "Melpomene, have you managed to identify that amulet's properties? I thought I overheard something about divination; perhaps it can divine us a clue to the location of that map for Gravenhollow."
Nov 30, 2017 10:08 am
Melpomene nods, "Yes, it has divination magic. I could learn more if we can find a safe place to be still for 10 minutes."
Nov 30, 2017 3:56 pm
"We'll rest at the Zhentarim enclave," says Hunter. "The others of our company should be waiting for us there."
Nov 30, 2017 7:33 pm
Looking around as you leave, you can see a group of duergar arguing as they enter the enclave. They look pretty worked up about something, but they don't seem interested in pursuing you.

You make your way back to the Zhentarim enclave and find that the bodies have been cleared away and there is a group of kobold slaves cleaning the cavern floor where blood was spilled.

You are escorted into the compound and taken into a side room, where you find Savy speaking with a couple of the other members of the Zhentarim that traveled here with you. He looks up as you enter and waves you in.

"Please, close the door," he says. When the door closes, he sighs, obviously flustered, "So, did you get your gnome situation dealt with?"
Nov 30, 2017 8:02 pm
"Both gem and gnome were returned to their respective homes," says Hunter, looking for a spot where Melpomene can sit in quiet study. "How fares our direction to Gravenhollow?"
Dec 1, 2017 11:05 pm
Savy shakes his head, "We've begun looking through everything, but there's a lot of documents, maps, and locks. We have to be careful since we don't know what may be trapped."
Dec 1, 2017 11:50 pm
"Then find me a drink," Hunter says, voice tinged with rising irritation. She quickly adds, "Preferably un-trapped."
Dec 2, 2017 12:23 pm
Melpomene settles herself in the corner and takes a cloth from her backpack. She carefully sets the amulet down and begins the ritual to identify it.
Dec 2, 2017 2:58 pm
Meriele finds a seat somewhere quiet, intent on pondering recent events in silence.
Dec 3, 2017 4:02 am
It's not long before a drink is delivered for Hunter; a glass of very fine wine.

As Melpomene focuses and meditates on the amulet, it's purpose becomes clear: it IS a map to Gravenhollow. If worn, it will direct the wearer along the path.
Dec 3, 2017 6:13 am
Hunter savors her wine, resting off her feet while things are settled.
Dec 3, 2017 11:38 am
Melpomene packs up her ritual paraphernalia and gracefully stands, returning to the rest of the group with the amulet in hand. She smiles with excitement as she says, "The amulet is the map...it will lead the bearer on the path to Gravenhollow."
Dec 3, 2017 2:32 pm
The wine tastes much sweeter thanks to Melpomene's report. Hunter summons one of Savy's attendants. "Inform the others in our group," she says, referring to the escorts from the various factions that accompanied them. "We leave for Gravenhollow on the morrow.

"Wonderful news, Poe,"
continues Hunter. "Thank you. Let us get some rest, now. Elfog and Mai'ngor, especially."
OOC:
Does a long rest sound good for everybody? I know we were down a few HP from the fighting.
Dec 6, 2017 2:22 am
You are led to some rooms to sleep for the night in privacy. You wake up the next morning to find Savy already awake and waiting for you.

"Good, you're awake!" he says with a smiles, "I wanted to talk to you about something..."

After a brief pause and faraway look he continues, "As you know, this place is in disarray and needs to be put back into order. For that reason, I need to pull my men out your expedition," he finishes, looking apprehensive about your response.
Dec 6, 2017 2:53 am
"While I would that we didn't part ways," says Hunter, "you have provided what Lady Jassur promised. For that I find no obligation for you and your men to continue escorting us."

She looks to her companions for their opinions on the matter.
Dec 6, 2017 6:17 pm
Meriele, with the smallest stake in the matter of anyone, doesn't so much as shrug. She only looks about to the others, assuming no input from her is requested.
Dec 7, 2017 12:18 am
"We'll manage." Mai'ngor turns to Savy. "You've been most helpful, thank you. Fare thee well."
Dec 7, 2017 10:06 am
Melpomene nods in agreement.
Dec 7, 2017 7:13 pm
OOC:
If there's anything that anyone else wants to do before you head out, let me know! I'll be posting an update to this... eventually. Transitioning to a new chapter is always a bit of a lengthy process, so please bear with me!
Dec 7, 2017 8:28 pm
Hunter turns to Savy, and says, "Before we part, do you have available supplies that we might reprovision ourselves with? As well as... hm, a change of wardrobe, in my size."

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