Barkas smiles and laughs in response to Faloniir, says "Everyone is welcome to have some, I'll brew more at some point!" He turns to Remallia and Syndra and says "I look forward to meeting Callbrax and setting sail in the morning. Do you have anywhere that we can bed down for the night and plan together? I may drink one or two more for Rennika but after that I need to sleep this off. Whew!"
The ale has a strong earthy taste, not too hoppy. There is a nutty overtone but also a fruity, nice finish, almost a hint of grapefruit. It is surprising in such a dark beer. You can feel the hair growing on your chest.
"Well you can't just leave a phylactery active for long. If we're not destroying it, the Harpers will. I've heard stories about liches, not much negotiation room there. Once it gives us what we need, it's too dangerous to just give it a fruit basket and head it on its way, yeah?" He would say, taking a swig of ale before stopping to collect himself, he hasn't had such a strong ale in a long while and simply lift his mug to Barkas for his approval.
He'd then to the elf. "Faloniir, right? You only have silver on you? Because a gold is worth more my speed." He'd produce a gold piece and hold it before him. "But if a silver is all you stake, then you must be getting similar medals."
Eldeth tentatively accepts a mug of the brew, and by her surprised reaction it's obvious that she wasn't expecting to enjoy it. "That's not bad! I tend to prefer a traditional mead, but I wouldn't pass this up at a tavern."She hesitates. "Might be more popular with a bit of a name change, though."
After a restful, or maybe not so restful, night at the Shawm 'n' Lute (arranged and paid for by Syndra herself), you set out for the harbor. Unsurprisingly, the docks are crowded, loud, and chaotic. Finding The Diviner takes a quarter of an hour or so, but you eventually step aboard and are greeted by a Callbrax, a gregarious lightfoot halfling. He quickly explains the boat's accommodations, including the locations of the food and drink. By midday you've sailed far enough south to make Baldur's Gate little more than a dark speck on the coast to the north of you.
<> - <> - <> - <> - <> - <> - <> - <>
It is in the evening on the third day of your voyage that the winds seem to blow a little colder. The evergreen treetops of the Cloakwood rustle endlessly. Callbrax steers the boat alongside rocky shores. “See that?” he says to you, pointing overhead.
You look up and behold a monolithic black tower appearing just above the dark forest.
“Zaldara,” the halfling mage says ominously. “We’re close.”
Minutes later, the wind howls a lonely note as Callbrax brings The Diviner as close as he can to the shore. A small cliff, approximately ten feet high, rises up from the rocks. Atop the cliff, you see dense trees and Zaldara’s lair poking above. The mage hops into the knee-deep water, motioning for you to grab your equipment and follow. The ocean is cold as death. Callbrax walks onto the shore and touches the cliff wall, muttering an arcane incantation. As he does, the wall parts just a bit, revealing a stone stair going upwards into darkness.
Suddenly a bleat breaks the night that fills your heart with adrenaline and dread. “That’s Remallia’s horn. Good luck and be quick.”
Cautiously you ascend the stairs that lead into the Duchess of Rot's cellar.
Drip. Drip. Drip. That hollow sound pierces the silence in this cave as water slowly falls from stalactites. Stale air fills your lungs as you take in the cave. A large, unworked stone column holds up the ceiling. Stout stairs leading up hug the column’s one side while a five-foot high ledge that leads into darkness appears along the other. Further back, a second set of stairs leads up to a stone door carved with a skull.
(The yellow-highlighted squares indicate the party members' location, one person per square. I made no assumptions about who might be in the front, mid, or rear of the group)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Matthias would spend the time upon The Diviner making sure each arrow he had was pristine for use along with his other tools. Cutting off a piece of his braid, he'd toss the blue braid over to Faloniir and using his hair as a token he'd send a telepathic message to Faloniir if he'd hold the braid of hair, "I hope you had a good night's rest..." He'd hear in his mind, Matthias smirking. Once they dock, Matthias would thank the halfling and sneak into the cellar. He'd be against the wall, bow and arrow in-hand and keep his eyes all about him. The ceiling, up the ledge, any sign of movement in the area.
"Aye, I've mastered the finer metals and have begun the work of learning how to temper the arcane as well." Eldeth will happily go on to Matthias about her family's history as crafters of magical items.
-------------
On the ship, when Callbrax points out Zaldara's tower, Eldeth with begin ritually casting Detect Magic. "The spell will last for ten minutes, and will help me locate any magical traps or suchlike, but if I lose concentration on the spell or run out of time, it'll take another ten minutes to recast it," she warns. As they reach the cave, she'll look around to see if anything betrays a magical nature.
(Apologies! I'm nearly recovered and should return to regular posting soon.)
Rasp remained silent as the rest of the party indulged in the provided alcohol. The Kenku politely waved off any offered mugs of ale - the feeling of inebriation never went over well with the Kenku's metabolism, and besides, Rasp enjoyed keeping a clear mind.
"Huh, never seen one of your kind in-person before."
Rasp granted Matthias a simple look of muted curiosity, leaning back in his seat and folding both black-cloaked arms. "We are an uncommon people. I have seen many of your kind before." The Kenku clearly meant to indicate Matthias's chaotic tendencies and whims - not the man's race. "We have a mission. It will be dangerous. I sincerely hope you behave more seriously when our lives are on the line than your words imply now."
The Kenku stood, gave a bow towards the old wizard, and retired for the night in his own room.
Now, Rasp stood, longsword and shield held in one hand. He felt comfortable being the first to step foot forwards. The Kenku silently considered the options available. "I suggest we stand where battle favors us. Standing on the ledge provides a tactical advantage I would prefer to keep if anything attacks."
Pausing momentarily now that all of you are within the Duchess of Rot's cellar, you peer through the darkness and listen for any hint of movement. Other than the rhythmic drip of water falling from the stalactites you hear nothing. And, for now, Eldeth's spell reveals nothing magical about your immediate surroundings.
While the bulk of the party is able to discern the general layout of this place, Rasp (who lacks darkvision) is unable to see much at all.
Updated map (character locations indicated purely at DM discretion):
Barkas exits the boat and stretches his legs, then gets in business mode and makes his way into the cave, in the mid portion of the group. He searches the ground for footprints, looks for evidence of recent travel in the area, and then walks with Faloniir to the door, examining for any traps, latches, access points. Also he looks for any arrow slits or ways of being observed. The modified Dwarven Wake for Rennika over, now the dwarf is all business and has a keen eye out for trouble. He casts produce flame to light the way for Rasp, holding it in his hand and walking near him.
As Matthias would head up to the ledge, agreeing with Rasp's assessment, he would have his bow aimed toward the skull door as Faloniir investigates the door incase something were to pop-out. Come on, come on out...He anticipates the sight of anything dangerous, heeding Rasp's movements as well.
Edrik gladly stayed with the others the previous night, partaking in ale, though sticking to the standard varieties offered by the Shawm ‘n’ Lute. He limits his consumption, so as to be alert and in good spirits the next morning. He is up early and eagerly makes his way to the ship. Aboard The Diviner, he is a little uncertain on his feet for the first day, but then settles into the time on the water. He splits his time between reading a book he has with him and chatting with the others.
Now in the Duchess of Rot's cellar, he looks around with the others. As Faloniir and Barkas head for the door with the skull, he makes his way over near Rasp and Matthias. He will grab his bow and have it at the ready if needed.
Faloniir moves north toward the door as Matthias and Rasp make their way up the stairs adjacent to the column. Barkas, Eldeth, and Edrik are close behind. What triggers the ensuing attack is anyone's guess. Was it Matthias's boots upon the steps? Was it Faloniir's proximity to the skull-adorned door? Or was it something else? Whatever the cause, two skeletons lurch into view from behind the massive column of stone.
Initiative
Skeletons: 5
Party members: 21, 17, 7, 17, 22, 6
Despite the fact they have been lying in wait, the undead cannot match the reaction speed of the party members.
(Round 1 has begun; players may act in any order. Skeleton 1 has shortbow at the ready, seemingly to fire upon Faloniir. Skeleton 2 has its blade drawn)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Rasp being in the position he was, and Matthias strafing against the wall, the hexblooded man can only have a clear shot at the skeleton right before the kenku. With Rasp defending Matthias, he'd quickly swing his bow over, leaning against the wall to help steady his aim and let loose an arrow, hoping to take it down fast before it can attack Rasp and focus on the creature with such a keen instinct as he was taught.
Faloniir will rush over to the ledge and climb up if possible. He'll then attempt to strike the Skeleton with his scimitars.
Movement: 15' (3 squares) Southwest to be just west of Skeleton 1 (Hoping to impose disadvantage on the ranged attack since it is now engaged in melee)
Seeing that the way forward and down is clogged up, Barkas moves west on the upper ledge around the column of stone until he can see skeleton 1, or if it is already down, to the the next point jutting out so that he can see skeleton 2, looking southeast. He takes the mote of flame and hurls it at the skeleton (1 if still visible/up or 2).
Produce Flame : Attack: 20 Damage: Unable to parse dice roll.
In a matter of seconds both skeletons are dispatched.
Faloniir's blade shatters the undead's ribs, and a moment later Edrik's arrow is protruding from the skeleton's eye socket. The skeleton staggers momentarily before tumbling down the ledge.
On the other side of the column, Matthias sends an arrow into the second skeleton, shattering sternum and ribs. Before it can raise its sword in retaliation, it absorbs Barkas's magical flame. As its tattered rags burst into flame, the skeleton crumples into a motionless heap.
Combat has ended.
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Barkas smiles and laughs in response to Faloniir, says "Everyone is welcome to have some, I'll brew more at some point!" He turns to Remallia and Syndra and says "I look forward to meeting Callbrax and setting sail in the morning. Do you have anywhere that we can bed down for the night and plan together? I may drink one or two more for Rennika but after that I need to sleep this off. Whew!"
The ale has a strong earthy taste, not too hoppy. There is a nutty overtone but also a fruity, nice finish, almost a hint of grapefruit. It is surprising in such a dark beer. You can feel the hair growing on your chest.
"Well you can't just leave a phylactery active for long. If we're not destroying it, the Harpers will. I've heard stories about liches, not much negotiation room there. Once it gives us what we need, it's too dangerous to just give it a fruit basket and head it on its way, yeah?" He would say, taking a swig of ale before stopping to collect himself, he hasn't had such a strong ale in a long while and simply lift his mug to Barkas for his approval.
He'd then to the elf. "Faloniir, right? You only have silver on you? Because a gold is worth more my speed." He'd produce a gold piece and hold it before him. "But if a silver is all you stake, then you must be getting similar medals."
Eldeth tentatively accepts a mug of the brew, and by her surprised reaction it's obvious that she wasn't expecting to enjoy it. "That's not bad! I tend to prefer a traditional mead, but I wouldn't pass this up at a tavern." She hesitates. "Might be more popular with a bit of a name change, though."
Birgit | Shifter | Sorcerer | Dragonlords
Shayone | Hobgoblin | Sorcerer | Netherdeep
"I like the name." He eyes Eldeth up-and-down. "So you are a crafter?" He'd smile, gesturing to her signet upon her hand.
After a restful, or maybe not so restful, night at the Shawm 'n' Lute (arranged and paid for by Syndra herself), you set out for the harbor. Unsurprisingly, the docks are crowded, loud, and chaotic. Finding The Diviner takes a quarter of an hour or so, but you eventually step aboard and are greeted by a Callbrax, a gregarious lightfoot halfling. He quickly explains the boat's accommodations, including the locations of the food and drink. By midday you've sailed far enough south to make Baldur's Gate little more than a dark speck on the coast to the north of you.
<> - <> - <> - <> - <> - <> - <> - <>
It is in the evening on the third day of your voyage that the winds seem to blow a little colder. The evergreen treetops of the Cloakwood rustle endlessly. Callbrax steers the boat alongside rocky shores. “See that?” he says to you, pointing overhead.
You look up and behold a monolithic black tower appearing just above the dark forest.
“Zaldara,” the halfling mage says ominously. “We’re close.”
Minutes later, the wind howls a lonely note as Callbrax brings The Diviner as close as he can to the shore. A small cliff, approximately ten feet high, rises up from the rocks. Atop the cliff, you see dense trees and Zaldara’s lair poking above. The mage hops into the knee-deep water, motioning for you to grab your equipment and follow. The ocean is cold as death. Callbrax walks onto the shore and touches the cliff wall, muttering an arcane incantation. As he does, the wall parts just a bit, revealing a stone stair going upwards into darkness.
Suddenly a bleat breaks the night that fills your heart with adrenaline and dread. “That’s Remallia’s horn. Good luck and be quick.”
Cautiously you ascend the stairs that lead into the Duchess of Rot's cellar.
Drip. Drip. Drip. That hollow sound pierces the silence in this cave as water slowly falls from stalactites. Stale air fills your lungs as you take in the cave. A large, unworked stone column holds up the ceiling. Stout stairs leading up hug the column’s one side while a five-foot high ledge that leads into darkness appears along the other. Further back, a second set of stairs leads up to a stone door carved with a skull.
(The yellow-highlighted squares indicate the party members' location, one person per square. I made no assumptions about who might be in the front, mid, or rear of the group)
Matthias would spend the time upon The Diviner making sure each arrow he had was pristine for use along with his other tools. Cutting off a piece of his braid, he'd toss the blue braid over to Faloniir and using his hair as a token he'd send a telepathic message to Faloniir if he'd hold the braid of hair, "I hope you had a good night's rest..." He'd hear in his mind, Matthias smirking. Once they dock, Matthias would thank the halfling and sneak into the cellar. He'd be against the wall, bow and arrow in-hand and keep his eyes all about him. The ceiling, up the ledge, any sign of movement in the area.
Stealth: 8
Perception: 5
Faloniir will think back to Matthias, Quite good. Dreams of silver all through my head. Do try to keep up from back there, m'lord.
He will then draw both scimitars and take point, "Anyone care which way we go first?"
Perception: 18
Stealth: 16
DM I The Forge of Fey Fury
Palifwan "Pal" Turnipson I Level 0 Harengon I Hero's Journey
"Aye, I've mastered the finer metals and have begun the work of learning how to temper the arcane as well." Eldeth will happily go on to Matthias about her family's history as crafters of magical items.
-------------
On the ship, when Callbrax points out Zaldara's tower, Eldeth with begin ritually casting Detect Magic. "The spell will last for ten minutes, and will help me locate any magical traps or suchlike, but if I lose concentration on the spell or run out of time, it'll take another ten minutes to recast it," she warns. As they reach the cave, she'll look around to see if anything betrays a magical nature.
Perception: 15 (passive: 11)
Birgit | Shifter | Sorcerer | Dragonlords
Shayone | Hobgoblin | Sorcerer | Netherdeep
(Apologies! I'm nearly recovered and should return to regular posting soon.)
Rasp remained silent as the rest of the party indulged in the provided alcohol. The Kenku politely waved off any offered mugs of ale - the feeling of inebriation never went over well with the Kenku's metabolism, and besides, Rasp enjoyed keeping a clear mind.
Rasp granted Matthias a simple look of muted curiosity, leaning back in his seat and folding both black-cloaked arms. "We are an uncommon people. I have seen many of your kind before." The Kenku clearly meant to indicate Matthias's chaotic tendencies and whims - not the man's race. "We have a mission. It will be dangerous. I sincerely hope you behave more seriously when our lives are on the line than your words imply now."
The Kenku stood, gave a bow towards the old wizard, and retired for the night in his own room.
Now, Rasp stood, longsword and shield held in one hand. He felt comfortable being the first to step foot forwards. The Kenku silently considered the options available. "I suggest we stand where battle favors us. Standing on the ledge provides a tactical advantage I would prefer to keep if anything attacks."
Pausing momentarily now that all of you are within the Duchess of Rot's cellar, you peer through the darkness and listen for any hint of movement. Other than the rhythmic drip of water falling from the stalactites you hear nothing. And, for now, Eldeth's spell reveals nothing magical about your immediate surroundings.
While the bulk of the party is able to discern the general layout of this place, Rasp (who lacks darkvision) is unable to see much at all.
Updated map (character locations indicated purely at DM discretion):
Faloniir would like to head over to the skull door using the results from his last perception and stealth checks if possible.
Investigation to inspect the door for traps or other interesting information: 5
DM I The Forge of Fey Fury
Palifwan "Pal" Turnipson I Level 0 Harengon I Hero's Journey
Barkas exits the boat and stretches his legs, then gets in business mode and makes his way into the cave, in the mid portion of the group. He searches the ground for footprints, looks for evidence of recent travel in the area, and then walks with Faloniir to the door, examining for any traps, latches, access points. Also he looks for any arrow slits or ways of being observed. The modified Dwarven Wake for Rennika over, now the dwarf is all business and has a keen eye out for trouble. He casts produce flame to light the way for Rasp, holding it in his hand and walking near him.
Perception : 11 (Passive Perception 16)
As Matthias would head up to the ledge, agreeing with Rasp's assessment, he would have his bow aimed toward the skull door as Faloniir investigates the door incase something were to pop-out. Come on, come on out... He anticipates the sight of anything dangerous, heeding Rasp's movements as well.
Edrik gladly stayed with the others the previous night, partaking in ale, though sticking to the standard varieties offered by the Shawm ‘n’ Lute. He limits his consumption, so as to be alert and in good spirits the next morning. He is up early and eagerly makes his way to the ship. Aboard The Diviner, he is a little uncertain on his feet for the first day, but then settles into the time on the water. He splits his time between reading a book he has with him and chatting with the others.
Now in the Duchess of Rot's cellar, he looks around with the others. As Faloniir and Barkas head for the door with the skull, he makes his way over near Rasp and Matthias. He will grab his bow and have it at the ready if needed.
Rabbit Sebrica | Skarai | Katryl Brightfury | Rylia Lionrage | Roxana Raincrest | Janek Whitmor | Lokilia Vaelphin
Faloniir moves north toward the door as Matthias and Rasp make their way up the stairs adjacent to the column. Barkas, Eldeth, and Edrik are close behind. What triggers the ensuing attack is anyone's guess. Was it Matthias's boots upon the steps? Was it Faloniir's proximity to the skull-adorned door? Or was it something else? Whatever the cause, two skeletons lurch into view from behind the massive column of stone.
Initiative
Despite the fact they have been lying in wait, the undead cannot match the reaction speed of the party members.
(Round 1 has begun; players may act in any order. Skeleton 1 has shortbow at the ready, seemingly to fire upon Faloniir. Skeleton 2 has its blade drawn)
Rasp being in the position he was, and Matthias strafing against the wall, the hexblooded man can only have a clear shot at the skeleton right before the kenku. With Rasp defending Matthias, he'd quickly swing his bow over, leaning against the wall to help steady his aim and let loose an arrow, hoping to take it down fast before it can attack Rasp and focus on the creature with such a keen instinct as he was taught.
Longbow to Skeleton 2: 19 Damage: 10
Popping Favored Foe as a free action: 2
Faloniir will rush over to the ledge and climb up if possible. He'll then attempt to strike the Skeleton with his scimitars.
Movement: 15' (3 squares) Southwest to be just west of Skeleton 1 (Hoping to impose disadvantage on the ranged attack since it is now engaged in melee)
Action: Attack Skeleton 1
Bonus Action: Off-hand attack (Two-Weapon Fighting)
Attack: 23 Damage: 6
Attack: 24 Damage: 5
Feel free to roll for me if the ledge isn't Difficult Terrain and requires an Ability Check to traverse.
DM I The Forge of Fey Fury
Palifwan "Pal" Turnipson I Level 0 Harengon I Hero's Journey
Edrik moves to the north-west until he has a clear view of Skeleton 1. He then fires his short bow at it. (Attack: 22 Damage: 9)
Rabbit Sebrica | Skarai | Katryl Brightfury | Rylia Lionrage | Roxana Raincrest | Janek Whitmor | Lokilia Vaelphin
Seeing that the way forward and down is clogged up, Barkas moves west on the upper ledge around the column of stone until he can see skeleton 1, or if it is already down, to the the next point jutting out so that he can see skeleton 2, looking southeast. He takes the mote of flame and hurls it at the skeleton (1 if still visible/up or 2).
Produce Flame : Attack: 20 Damage: Unable to parse dice roll.
In a matter of seconds both skeletons are dispatched.
Faloniir's blade shatters the undead's ribs, and a moment later Edrik's arrow is protruding from the skeleton's eye socket. The skeleton staggers momentarily before tumbling down the ledge.
On the other side of the column, Matthias sends an arrow into the second skeleton, shattering sternum and ribs. Before it can raise its sword in retaliation, it absorbs Barkas's magical flame. As its tattered rags burst into flame, the skeleton crumples into a motionless heap.
Combat has ended.