Venet isnt the best at puzzles so she's fine letting them handle this. Plus it would mean reading through a bunch of other sad documents and that's already put a dent in her mood, not like it was great to begin with considering their day but the bard isnt feeling very musical to say the least. She just shrugs when Alex asks his question. It's better than three numbers that's for sure.
Alex nods, then hesitantly punches in the new password, praying to God that it's right since he really doesn't want to take a gamble with their last chance.
And indeed, He answered Alex's prayers. The metal door opens after Alex enters the code, revealing a stone bridge, and to the left side of the bridge, about 60 ft down, is a 'normal' cave.
Wait, something is not right. There are pieces of rocks littered on the ground as if someone used a very powerful explosive to blow up yet another section. On the other end of the bridge is a waterfall and a hut, the hole above the waterfall looks like it leads to the surface; you can see raindrops hitting the water. There is no cloud in the Underdark, so rain wouldn't be possible without magic.
The hut looks like it's empty, but you aren't here for these two anyway, you're here for what's down the cliff.
You see Cezars and Myconids, about twenty of them, gathering in a circle. The fire Genasi is drawing a ritual circle centred on a dragon egg from earlier, behind him is another completed magic circle, it's much smaller than the one he's currently drawing, and it's glowing red, which means it's active.
These myconids look different from the one you encountered last night, their cap (head) comes in various shades of blue, the ones from last night have a much wider range of colours.
"Wait... that's the dragon egg from earlier!" Elsa whispers to both groups, "What's he doing, though?"
"From the looks of it, probably not something good," Simo replies, then he looks to your group. "If you have any spells you want to cast before battle, do it now. We'll deal with the Myconids, you rescue the eggs, got it?"
"W-wait!"Kazimieras calls out, twiddling his fingers. "Uh... I think I'll go now, I can't do much with this makeshift spear. Thank you so much for everything, guys, if you come to Hlotis, you can find me again in the capital. See you later." He silently takes off towards the waterfall and flies up, disappearing into the shaft above.
"Bye!"Elsa waves to him, smiling.
While you are discussing your plans, you hear Simo's team talking among themselves too.
"Myconids... Aunt Jedwiga runs into them from time to time, they might not be the strongest, but when it comes to information, they know pretty much everything."Danils explains, pulling out an arrow from his quiver. "They're semi-hive-minded, meaning every single Myconids on this planet shares the same set of memories, and it's generational too, they remembered pretty much everything ever since they evolved into this form millions of years ago."
"Interesting..." Liega rubs her chin, "Does that mean they know what Project Bahamut is?"
"They might, but they won't tell. Anyone with any semblance of a brain would know that revealing the biggest secret to ever exist in Lancean history is a really, really bad move. Besides, I don't want to know what Project Bahamut is, what's the point of going on a grand adventure when you already know what lies ahead at the final destination?" He shrugs.
OOC Note:
Because I don't want combat to take too long, I didn't place the tokens of other myconids on Owlbear, just Cezars. Simo's party will fight them off-screen, if you lose, they lose, if you win, they win.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
"Excellent! I'm glad to know that you've successfully solved it! Well done, Alex!"Mira hoots to Alex with multiple claps. Even though he technically didn't solve it by himself, it's still one to be proud of. "Alright. We better get moving, before we all start to lose track of where we are!" She hears Renar as he walks behind her telling everyone to go, though she's wondering why are they choosing to stay behind other than watch over the stuff they're hiding...
"You coming, Maya? No? Wait... What are you-?! What do you mean guard the back door? There's no one behind us!"Mira huffs impatiently after seeing the two oddballs stray behind the rest. Seeing Maya nodding to her, Mira doesn't really want to take her chances again, seeing that they might have been hiding some live people behind their doors. Oh well. "Ok. Fine. You better be quick though or we'll start the assault without you. Let's go, Renar. They're already ahead of us."She warns In the cave, assuming that Renar is currently Mira takes second in position, behind whoever's willing to lead. Once inside, she briefly scans the situation: On her left is the surface it seems, judging by the endless downpour of rain. On the right... There's a dragon egg encased in some sort of inactivated ritual circle. A guy with fire hair is patrolling the area plus some blue mushroom thingies... what on earth are they trying to do with that egg?! Is that why these guys are so hell bent on tearing him down?!
"Is that your target? The fire guy that you guys were rumoring about wanting to punish?" Mira tries to confirm. She also however, spots those weird-looking mushrooms flanking his sides. They don't seem like immediate threats to two massive groups, but even so, that doesn't mean they can take them lightly in combat, especially when they're armed. Semi-minded. Same mind, same memories, huh? Interesting... Project Bahamut... she doesn't want to know, though she might have seen it in the notes before... "Seems like your target has earned some more allies... I wonder where his two girlfriends that captured me went to?" She jokes. She then glances back to the door; Maya is still holding the door open. What is taking them so long? Now what on earth is she and Renar up to...
Wait... Where's Renar? Wasn't he walking behind her a moment ago?! Argh! She got deceived! Now she can't even see him from this far enough distance... Wasn't he supposed to...? "Psst! guys! Wait! We're short on someone!"Mira whispers to the group, hoping they would take notice of his absence... Speaking of which... she's wondering, who is supposed to be the tactician of this group? Because right now she doesn't have a plan on how to deal with them and save the egg...
Renar
I'm glad that Alex managed to get the password right this time. I was worried that the trap would activate and kill not only us but our 'ancestors' hiding inside the room too... Whatever. It worked, so my first instinct is to proceed to attack Stupid Rixi with a carefully concocted plan whilst we could save the dragon egg in the process.
However, as I move to trail behind them, I couldn't stop thinking about the angered states of the kitsunes we were supposed to have befriended. I need to do something quick if I don't want to endanger their trust... And that means isolating myself from the rest again...
"You all go first. Me and Maya will watch the back in case some people try to ambush us from behind. Just go." I usher them as I deliberately trail slowly as if I was gonna trail behind them. The bunny girl would definitely be suspicious of me for sure, considering her rather nosy behaviour these past few hours... I need to drop her guard again for a while... But still, I patiently let the others go ahead of me without saying a word, gesturing to Okaa-san to stay close to me while I'm at it.
Once they're all on the other side of this hell hole, I gesture to Okaa-san to hold the door open whilst I swiftly duck back out of the bunny girl's sight to quickly write a small note to those two, hoping that she'd been deceived again. I then open the door slowly, sliding the paper into the gap along with 3 rations from my bag.
What I just said to you earlier, I'm sorry if I caused a misunderstanding when I didn't mean to. I... You guys just made us two nervous I'll admit. The next time we meet, I hope we can better get along. But for now, take this food as a sign of my apology. Eat up. I'm sure you two hungry now that you've came out of stasis. The password for the main door is 1383. If you're still intent on helping us despite what I said to hurt you both, enter the passcode, go through this door and you can show us your pride however you care. Or not, if you don't want to, but neither me or Maya... we won't stop you two.
P.S: By the way, this person we're fighting on the other side... he's a fire genasi, corrupting a dragon egg. And... he himself and his family are against you both; They hate your race and they claim they were also trying to find and kill you; They want your kind to be better off dead unlike us two. Just saying.
After this I scamper towards the door before Okaa-san could slam the door shut on me. Both of us couldn't really move to a better position at the front as a result seeing how cramped the cave is, but there was another rickety bridge. And beneath it, I could see something flickering light a sore thumb. A light in the midst of darkness...
As I look down towards that flickering flame, I grit my teeth and snarl. There he is. Our main target to subdue and... What? Okaa-san's now whispering into my ears... what does she want from me now? "Okaa-san?" I whisper to her and... Ok. Stupid Rixi's there. I know. No surprise. He is our target after-
My ears then jolt from under my disguise in shock. I then look again to see something that seems to have shocked Okaa-san... wait... WHAT?! The mushroom guys she befriended earlier have now taken Stupid Rixi's side?! And the dragon egg... what is he...?! Great... Now I can't even formulate out battle strategy clearly to the others since they're telepathic... Unless...
*Deliberately held back for everyone plus my fading brain cells*
The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation) Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer(Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Alex has successfully opened the door without triggering the alarm. Whew, that's a relief. She was scared to death about facing the wrath of poison gas along with the thought of her kitsune companions dying. Whilst the others slowly move through, she notices her son gesturing at her to hold the door. Hold the door for what, she's thinking? She takes one last look back towards the door though, wondering what her son is now up to after agreeing to stay behind. Is he writing an apology note to them or something? He better make this quick; The others including Mira have already gone past the door and once it locks again, there's no turning back. "Renar-kun! Isoide! (急いで, Hurry up!)" She yells at him, already getting impatient of this irony.
Eventually, after a few more minutes of waiting, Renar does zoom past her before she could shut the door on him. Maya is positioned at the back, unable to move up to the centre or the front considering how cramped the new passageway is. Whilst not as perceptive as her son, she does manage to snuff out the bridge, her worst nightmare after the recent incident, their main target that she slapped a few days ago. Considering that she hasn't fought him personally, she already has an idea on how to protect the almost disorganized group for as long as possible whilst she draws the egg to safety. Wait... is that... alongside 'Rixian'...? Hang on a minute...
"Uh... Renar-kun..." She stutters into his concealed ears. Maya's face is immediately drained of colour however, when she notices not Cezars, but a familiar living spore. The Myconids, whom she befriended a few hours ago. And now they've switched sides. Seriously?! Thing is, were those the actual myconids she initially encountered? If they are then... seems like her son is right about not trusting species they don't know... And once again she can't understand anything that Simo's group is saying now that her translator has ceased...
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod) Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic) Maya Kurosaki- Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time Shijiro Otsune- Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan) Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
"Uh thanks,"Alex chuckles, "It was a group effort though! I just pushed the buttons."
When they enter the next area to find Cezars preparing some unholy ritual on an unborn child, Alex grits his teeth. Fortunately, he's sensible enough not to blow their element of surprise this time, listening stiffly as Simo and Elsa talk about the situation.
He gives Kaz a salute when the vampire takes off and says quietly, "Safe travels. Hopefully we'll meet again!"
When Simo says that he doesn't really want to know what the artifact is, Alex smiles and quotes one of his favorite stories, "'Journey before destination.' Personally I wouldn't mind knowing what it is. After all, our destination isn't what matters, it's the steps we take to get there that make the journey worthwhile. I'd be willing to ask them if they can give us any information at all. Who knows, whatever we learn from them could determine the fate of the world. What if we find the artifact and can't use it just because we didn't ask these..."Then he realizes that he's talking about 'talking' to the Myconids, and trails off... covering his mouth and nose as he remembers exactly what that would involve. "Uh... Simo... do you have any idea why these Myconids would be... well helping Cezars? We met some other Myconids earlier, they helped Maya and I get back to the group after we were separated... thanks to Cezars. Or... if they aren't helping him, what are they doing?"
Shaking his head, he forces himself to focus, "Alright. We'll handle Cezars and the egg then." He says this a little too eagerly, though it isn't clear if he just wants to go after Cezars or if he's just glad that he won't have to deal with the mushroom folk.
His sword lights up as he channels his divine energy, just like the first time they fought Cezars (Channel Divinity: Sacred Weapon). "Let's get this guy, and save that dragon! Ready when you are." He prepares to rush into battle, clearly not even thinking about trying to use surprise to their advantage. "Oh... we also should remember that he has that ring of invisibility. I... don't know why he took it off, unless it would interfere with whatever he's doing, but... just something to be aware of. We also need to recover it for Kaz if possible."
Shugo gazes down at the scene unfolding before them giving little notice to what Renar and Maya are up to. It's not that he hasn't picked up on their weird behavior, more that he figures that there's something personal going on between them and maybe whatever is in that room... He just hopes no one but Venet has picked up on his own feelings. He barely notices as the vampire flies off, he didn't have any particular feelings towards him anyways. However, when Simo and his group start talking he gives them his attention.
"Sounds like a fine plan to me." He says, then continues. "While we still have the jump on them, how's about I run down there and grab that egg while invisible? I know they'll notice it's gone as soon as I touch it, but at least my invisibility will ensure I can get close." He shrugs. If the egg is considered an item, it would become invisible as soon as he picks it up. If not, the egg would appear to float. Either way, Cezars would know somethings up. "Once I grab the egg, that would be your signal to attack. Sound good? Or would you rather us all just jump him now? I for one would like to get that egg out of that magic ring thing as soon as possible..."
"Where the hell did you go, you bozo?!"She curses at Renar, despite not getting a response upon his arrival. But her attention then averts to the current scenario, plus Shugo and Alex wanting to charge into the fray to rescue the dragon egg and defeat him for good. It sounds genuine, but Mira does have her concerns. She's imagining that everyone charges in without thinking of a formation whilst Shugo sneaks past to retrieve the egg; Not everyone is adept at close combat, especially herself. And what if any of them get knocked down? How is the team going to recover after that? There are many factors she needs to consider, that she cannot provide solutions to at the moment, given that she isn't born with a warrior's mindset.
"To me, my best guess is that half of us splits up to guard the egg whilst you melee fighters do your best to ward off... whatever that idiot's name is until we've succefully retrieved the egg safely. That's all I can muster in my head. I'm not skilled in devising combat techniques on the spot unless if you guys have anything else to offer." She says as she puts a paw to her chin. She then notices Renar deep in thought. What is he scheming now? Or is... is does he actually have a plan in mind that could put them in a better position? Already feeling repelled by his and Shugo's negative feelings, Mira probably should not pry into their thought any more until after combat. "Hey oddball. You have something to say that we need to know? Come on. You two get to the front and join us! Don't just hang in the back and lag behind us!"
Mira does have a defense she's willing to bolster, but she's gonna hold off just in case until everyone moves downstairs... or if Venet has something stronger than what she knows.
Renar
I couldn't really see what's going on at the back since the rest have taken the front and aren't willing to budge. But I can already hear Shugo and Alex rambling about stealthing for there former and charging at Stupid Rixi for the latter. Heh. I'm unironically glad they thought of that themselves. They actually kinda read me there; That was kind of my plan actually as I closed my eyes to gather my thoughts...
Since negotiations with this idiot would end up in vain, we'll fight in two small groups. At the start of the fight, both group take defensive positions but stay within 20ft of each other in our own split ones in case members have an AOE spell that would help everyone in range. You four will handle the mushroom guys whilst we make a diversion to distract Stupid Rixi; You guys keep them away from our main target, unless if you're intending to encircle them. If you have any formations to lay out, discuss them amongst yourselves, since I assume you're gonna do this with just you four.
Back to us six, we'll split into three frontliners, and three backliners. My idea is that we form triangle formations, with me, Alex and Mermaid girl as one and Mira, Okaa-san and Shugo as another. From there it's all about controlling the conditions that are presented to us; Alex will keep him at bay from the egg on his right. I will position myself in the center just behind Alex's right as a decoy whilst Shugo will stealth behind me and to my right to retrieve before whatever ritual he's doing can finish. I'll move left at a safe distance from the egg and guard your flank in case Stupid Rixi comes into my direction.
And as for all of the ladies, well... What you just said, Mira, I'm taking your concerns seriously. As such, position yourselves wisely behind us and play to your strengths, especially for Okaa-san, who seems to be the most injured right now; I know what she'll immediately conjure as soon as the fight begins and we need her to stay conscious for the entire fight. Mermaid lady and Mira, I don't know what combat capabilities you two ladies have, but if you can, provide us your own buffs or coverage from behind as much as you can. We will appreciate the support that you two are giving and will do our best to shield you in return. Okaa-san, I know what you're going to cast, so the timing of it must be critical. Watashi no aizu de, got it? I also need one of you girls to watch over me and Alex whilst the other two keeps an eye out for Shugo and any other potential threats that could hinder our fight. I won't advise it but you girls can charge into the fray if you have nothing else to cast. I also kind of expect this to fail but, If he doesn't somehow conjure more undead warriors to fight against us we'll find some way to push his back near the water's edge. If Stupid Rixi does in fact summon his minions, do your best to hold out against them one by one whilst Alex focuses on distracting the main target.
Whilst I'm aware of the tensions surfacing amongst us all, that doesn't mean we should let this hinder our ability to fight alongside each other. I may not look like your sensitive, friendly changeling on the outside, but on the inside, I want the combined forces to succeed and take another step close to disaster prevention. As a fallen comrade of mine said: "The victor isn't victorious if the vanquished does not considered himself so." I believe you all have got this in the bag; Don't worry if you feel useless one minute because believe me: You'll never be in my eyes. Set our aside our differences to fight a common enemy, and rise to glory, together. Understood? Well then... if everyone's happy... Wings stripped away, the end is nigh! Let's move! Before we face a colossal threat that might hatch in seconds!
As I open my eyes, I noticed how tense the atmosphere is right now with all twelve of us staring at each other; Shugo and Alex have partially blurted out part of my plan, so I don't think it would be wise to add too much of a piece of my mind. Alex looks confident he can lead the group, but I'm more worried about his rush and swing tactics once he actually enters the fray. Shugo's stealth, cool. I'll guard him from the front to deceive Stupid Rixi. I may also have to guard the side, possibly retreat a small distance so that Alex can turn and attack and then vice-versa whilst Shugo does his thing. Also, if Stupid Rixi is alone, that means we'll either have to either brace for a horde of undead or an unexpected ambush, hence why I'm not keen in all of us charging at once onto the battlefield. Other than Shugo's invisibility there's no way we can stealth on an empty battlefield. Speaking of stealth, Stupid Rixi's invisibility ring isn't something I had considered either. One of us will need to pry it off his hand at some point if we want to hinder him...
Oh yeah. Defenses. That's another thing we need to prioritise. Even so, I decided to limit myself on my actual strategy just so people view me as a show off. In response to Mira, I bluntly reply with a nervous frown... "I don't have anything to offer but, when we reach the bottom of the stairs, everyone stay within at least 20ft of each other and start off defensive, including you, Shugo. You head to the right unnoticed whilst I guard you on your left. If anyone has any spells to conjure either on themselves on others, do so straight away. It's better to consume six seconds to better protect ourselves than to charge in and leave ourselves vulnerable to fatal attacks." I then turn to Okaa-san, who I know the most out of everyone here. Okaa-san's looking at me with fierce, shut eyes as I nod back. I know. I know exactly what you're intending to set up. But the timing needs to be on point, as I had imagined. "Oka- I mean... Maya-san. Watashi no aizu de (私の合図で, On my cue)."
Speaking of defenses... I should set up mine up straight away too... as my katana hilt, not my sheath, glows a warm hue of yellow surrounded with crackling yellow lightning for now. Because this time, I'm starting off with my weapon unsheathed. (Blur and Bladesinger; AC goes back to 18, +4 to concentration, Walk speed increased to 45ft) *Loveless Act II* "Wings stripped away, the end is nigh. Let's move. Before we face another colossal threat that could hatch in seconds." As we move into position downstairs, something also tells me to hold off the team encouragement...
The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation) Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer(Clockwork Soul); Lancea
"Uh... Simo... do you have any idea why these Myconids would be... well helping Cezars? We met some other Myconids earlier, they helped Maya and I get back to the group after we were separated... thanks to Cezars. Or... if they aren't helping him, what are they doing?"
"I might have an idea." He says, following the group downstairs, the rest of his party is following behind him. "Myconids share their consciousness, not just memories, but emotions and senses too—if one of them feels pain, every other Myconids on this planet will feel it." Simo draws his sword, "That's their main weakness, if you hurt one of them enough, they will have no choice but to bow down to you." In short, Cezars might have tortured one of the individual Myconid and coerced the rest to join him.
Speaking of Myconids, as you creep up closer to Cezars, one of the blue-capped folk releases a spore. It's too far out for you to sense, but Cezars seems to be annoyed at the message. "That will be my trump card, everyone on this planet will hunt them down. No quarter given for those savages." You've already seen this before, but someone talking to a Myconid from afar would look like they're talking to themselves...
Wait, savages?
The fire Genasi points at the smaller, red magical ring. "If we get lucky, we might summon a high-rank demon on the first try... I'm not going to say my plan out loud for the second time, because every time I do that, these brats just appear out of nowhere and ruin everything!" He kicks a pebble off the floor in frustration.
Then, the red magical ring glows very brightly, the ground rumbles, and smoke starts to rise from the centre of the circle. And then, a cambion pops into existence.
Demons... you've heard many stories about them and seen their pictures in the textbook, but this is the first time you've met one in real life. Lancea is a very safe planet, there are no cults running around summoning demons everywhere, so the chance of seeing one in a lifetime is almost zero, but it's almost zero, not impossible.
"What the heaven? Where am I?"The cambion looks around, dazed and confused... getting pulled out of existence into another realm must be a jarring experience.
Cezars crosses his arms, "Welcome to Lancea." The Myconids all bow down to the newly arrived cambion and they send more spores in the air, probably briefing the demon about the situation and why he's summoned here.
Well, it's time to act.
There are a lot of people here, so Shugo's stealth checks will be made with a disadvantage, however, his invisibility cancels it out, so roll it normally.
Place your tokens on the Owlbear battle map.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Mira
As she descends down the stairs, Mira gasps softly as she sees a massive, bulky fiend coming out of the circle. Holy hell. So these five weren't kidding with doing justice to this idiot of Adelaide's huh? Well then. It's time to prove to her mother than she can be more than just a noble bunny.
"Gahahaha! Say your plan out loud?" Mira jeers at Cezars with a ferocious cackle. "What is it, huh? Tell me more! Before I go out and spread the news that you, one: left me with your stupid goons hang to be humiliated and two: Did something dastardly like this! We ain't letting you two off the hook! You guys! Holy boy's goons! Do your thing!"
She then turns to Alex, smiling at him with absolute confidence that he can manage, before scowling at Renar, who is close to where he is standing near him. "You two... I don't know you boys well but, Mr Oddball... I trust that you and holy boy have this under control. If I see him unconscious, that's it. You reveal to me what's under that hood of yours, or I'll force you to do so. Understood? That aside, break a leg. (Literally)" She says to Renar, whispering her last word to both in a low voice before keeping at least 25ft away from the two swordfighters current position next to Venet and Maya. Before that though, she whispers in celestial as green spectral clocks hover again, buffing the two of them so they can further... cope with...
Wait...
Wings stripped away, the end is nigh...She thinks as she contemplates Renar's words... and then her jaw slightly hangs in midair in shocks just after she further buffs Alex and Renar with twinned [Tooltip Not Found]. Wait... isn't that...?! What... That can't be! How does he know it...?!
Until the spell ends or if Mira loses concentration, two willing creatures (Alex and Renar, Twinned Spell) she touches are protected against certain types of creatures: aberrations, celestials, elementals, fey, fiends, and undead.
The protection grants several benefits. Creatures of those types have disadvantage on attack rolls against Alex and Renar. They also can't be charmed, frightened, or possessed by them. If either of them is already charmed, frightened, or possessed by such a creature, they have advantage on any new saving throw against the relevant effect.
Mira Initiative: 9 (22)
*NGL I actually don't have Mira's token, let alone where to find it...*
Renar
I knew something dastardly was about to go wrong. The moment my eyes locked onto that stupid genasi summoning a freaking devil into this realm, my heart sank, my tail stiffens as my anger bubbled, or crackled, in this case, since I'm a lightning user. Even so, that wouldn't mean I'd abandon this plan to rescue the dragon egg. We just need to fend him for as long as possible. I nod to Okaa-san first, to wait for my signal, and the to Shugo to go ahead and do his thing, before eyeing the battlefield. At least, until the bunny girl distracted me from my current field of view... Whatever she is saying to me, it unnerved me a little that she would try to unveil my cover. But I mostly just shrugged it off. "Whatever. Keep your distance from us frontliner as much as possible. Make sure Shugo is well guarded too." I could only say to her as I shuffle forwards with Alex, the only hard hitter in the group.
"Alex... slight change of plans. That winged guy that came out of nowhere..." I snarl as my unsheathed katana glows an even brighter yellow. "I'll leave him to you. Draw them away. Make sure Shugo gets to safety." I then unsheathe my katana for real, firmly positioning my back against his as I maintain my own stance with his on his right. They look strong, but comparing that to our current teamwork, they've got nothing on us.
At this point, I'm imagining Tenebris, Shijro or Rixian to be by my side; for the latter third, both are paladins, both are highly emotional and both would make great sparring partners both in practice and in combat. Maybe, just maybe, if the opportunity comes as I imagine it, I could teach him a team combo of mine... but not right now. We have a problem to clean up, before it becomes a crisis.
"Alex." I say to him again with a more aggressive voice. "On me."
The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation) Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer(Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Alexander flinches as the demon is summoned right before their eyes, "He's really lost it hasn't he..." He shakes his head. Now isn't the time to think, it's the time to act. "Alright, Shugo, we'll distract them while you get the egg. ...just get it as far away from here as you can. ...maybe hide it or something so you can come back and help us out if needed? But first priority is getting it to safety."
He readies his glowing sword, "Second is freeing the myconids from Cezars. Maybe we can get them on our side, and they can share his plan with us once this is over."
He grins as Renar joins him, glad to see that his friend is once more in the mood for teamwork. Raising his sword as the 'changing' positions himself back to back with him he says, "Right." Then points his blade at their first opponent. Cezars is going down. Together, they won't let him get to Paulis.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Shugo nods to Renar, pleased to see the 'changeling' has reverted back to his usual behavior rather than being both sulky and angry. It sounds like they have a solid plan...though he's not sure how Renar expects the others to know where he is when he's invisible... well he supposes that he probably wont be invisible after grabbing the egg.
He squints down at the circle when the demon suddenly pops up out of it. Fantastic. Now they have two enemies to deal with. Oh well, best get on with this. The elf makes an odd hand sign, snaps his fingers then vanishes just as Mira starts yelling at Cezars for some reason. Well.. so much for surprise. At least she can serve as a distraction. "I'm off then." He whispers to Venet and Renar before moving towards the circle and the egg.
Demons?! Great! Just great! Just what she needed as she lumbers downstairs with bared teeth and sharpened, red fingernails running along the edges of her soft hands. Whilst the entire history of Lancea and its ways of living are foreign to her, dealing with a devil like this isn't. Seeing the rest of the team taking a round to start in defensive positions, the kitsune is the last one to take her stance as she eyes the two targets before she notices Shugo vanishing out of the blue, just like her two children sneaking off from her line of vision to go an play or fight, except literally.
Speaking of which, the kitsune is slow to realise it, but unless if Venet has set up her own defenses beforehand, she's the last to sets hers up, minus her signature ability, whom she ha yet to hear a signal from her son. Speaking of her son, it seems that he and Alex have been receiving the most support, so she instead turns her attention to the other three who haven't received one themselves. Clasping her sharpened claws, she chants in Japanese as she herself plusVenet, Mira and Shugo find themselves buffed by her Blessing.
Maya's Initiative: 5 (As she finishes her enchantment, she then clumsily trips on her elongated dress and faceplants on the ground with a fox-like yelp whilst attempting to move forwards and be in 20ft range of the allies. Real dramatic entrance there...)
Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod) Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic) Maya Kurosaki- Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time Shijiro Otsune- Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan) Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
Once the plan is set, and the level of surprise is blown, Venet will sigh then will reach out and cast Faerie Fire centered on Cezars. She looks a little unsure of Shugo going off on his own, but as long as they keep the others focused he should be fine. He should be fine, right? -------------- Initiative: 12 Faerie Fire: DC 14 Dex
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Initiative
You: 6
1. Mira (22)
2. Renar (18)
3. Alex (7)
4. Shugo (11)
5. Maya (5)
6. Venet (12)
Them: 1
1. Cezars (14)
2. Cambion (20)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
As she descends down the stairs, Mira gasps softly as she sees a massive, bulky fiend coming out of the circle. Holy hell. So these five weren't kidding with doing justice to this idiot of Adelaide's huh? Well then. It's time to prove to her mother than she can be more than just a noble bunny.
"Gahahaha! Say your plan out loud?" Mira jeers at Cezars with a ferocious cackle. "What is it, huh? Tell me more! Before I go out and spread the news that you, one: left me with your stupid goons hang to be humiliated and two: Did something dastardly like this! We ain't letting you two off the hook! You guys! Holy boy's goons! Do your thing!"
"What? Why are they still here, they are supposed to fear me!"Cezars gasps, spotting Simo's team just right behind your party. But after Mira's taunt, his focus is now solely on you.That's it... you're going down!" Cezars whips his head at the Harengon, he takes a step back and charges at her like a rugby player... He draws out his sabre and...
"Hold on! Can we be a bit more civilised? Why am I attacking these innocent adventurers!?" The Cambion calls out from the distance, and right as he says that he is counter-interrupted again.
"Just shut up and fight, Cambion, I didn't summon you here so you play around debating!" Cezars shouts back... and it seems to have an effect on the summoned demon too, the Cambion clutches his head for a moment, then nods. It seems like he's being forced against his will.
He walks forward for a few steps, flames lighting in his hand, the winged demon throws two orbs of fire, one at Maya, and the other at Alex.
It doesn't seem like the two notice Shugo is there, which is good, but the moment he grabs the egg, they will definitely come for him.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the cave, Simo's team is fighting the myconids. Elsa is a spellcaster, but she specialises in ice-based spells, so she can do something like freezing the ground and making the mushrooms slip. Simo's fighting style is already obvious, he's a frontline and his attack pattern is a lot like Alex's (After all, both of them probably practised with each other a lot during childhood). Liega is a sneaky and stabby type, finishing off weakened enemies and dashing behind unsuspecting ones. And Danils uses a bow, so he stays in the backline and snipes enemies from the skies.
You'll definitely need their fighting style information later on, since Simo did say he wanted a spar with the party.
Cezars: Action; Dash
Cambion: Fire Ray—Maya; 16 to hit, 17fire damage. Alex; 24 to hit, 23firedamage.
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
As expected of her, Cezar rushed straight for her... but not Shugo. All they need to do now is buy him time to bring the egg to safety. Bonus points if they can be taken down in the process. Though... she can tell the Cambion doesn't actually want to fight on his will. That's rare of someone so devilish...
Even so, she jolts in horror when Maya is suddenly struck by a fire ray from the devil. And yet... she can't heal her at all... That wasn't the plan was it? To see the kitsune go down so early? Crap... she better draw the fire away from those girls... She then smirks and then goads to Cezars. "Heh. Strike me down all you want. I just love it when you and your schematics burn to ashes in the end, pun intended!"
I hope this is what you wanted, oddball... Venet... please back up the kitsune... I offer thee... this, well... not-so-silent sacrifice! She thinks, glancing towards Renar as she backflips over Cezars and near the second tiny rock for half-cover in case the cambion decides to target her, nevermind the fact that she's now out of Maya's range.
BA: Rabbit hop; As a bonus action, Mira can jump 10 ft. past Cezars without provoking opportunity attacks.
Action: Sticking to Renar's plan to draw them away from the vulnerable, she moves all of her distance to draw Cezars away towards the second tiny rock, before she face back toward him as a clock appears in front of her and turns from green to blue, as the Fire Genasi then spots a Ray of Frost being hurled in his direction (Attack: 25 + 1 from Bless assuming Maya still holds her ground, Damage: 2 Ice; Speed slowed down by 10ft if it hits)
Whilst she's bracing herself to be knocked out first thing, if Cezars does in fact, still decides to unleash his rage on her when she puts Renar in a flanking position, she'll use her spectral clock as her Shield in response, and especially if the cambion decides to turn on her next. If not she'll hold her precious spells.
"Hold on! Can we be a bit more civilised? Why am I attacking these innocent adventurers!?" The Cambion calls out from the distance, and right as he says that he is counter-interrupted again.
Huh? That's odd. The guy doesn't want to fight us even though Stupid Rixi summoned him? At least... until I saw Okaa-san hit by.. NO!
"MAYA!" No... he knows doesn't he...he's targeting our strongest fighter. I can't let that happen! "Alex... you heard what he said? Keep him at bay!"
With the silver sheen on my katana glowing bright yellow, I then silently but speedily approach and slash Stupid Rixi as he chases down the bunny- wait. She's jumping away?! Where is she going?! This isn't part of what I hoped, damn it!
*Shocking Grasp: 8, 23 if Cezars has his armour on, Damage: 1 Lightning (pfft), Can't take reactions if the latter condition is in effect*
But then, without giving him the hint, I flick one of my thumbs towards Okaa-san into her direction, gesturing... NOW!
The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation) Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer(Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Maya's Concentration: 4 (Wow very good rolls there, especially the NAT 20 damage :D)
Maya yells in pain upon taking a blast that almost singed her fur and was too much to handle to keep her bless up. If it wasn't for her son entering the fray, she would have retreated almost immediately. But then she spots something with her shut eyes...
Action: Seeing her son's gesture hidden in plain view of everyone but her alone, Maya moves behind the rock underneath Venet and out of the cambion's sight just in case (once Shugo has left the place though), before she then mutters in pained Japanese: "Ugh... Tasogare... No Seiki! (黄昏の聖域, Twilight Sanctuary)"
As an action, Maya conjures a sphere of twilight (no concentration) that is centered on her, has a 30-foot radius, and is filled with dim light. The sphere moves with her, and it lasts for 1 minute or until she is incapacitated or die (does unconscious count?). Whenever an ally (including herself) ends its turn in the sphere, Maya can repeatedly grant them one of these benefits for this fight:
She grants it 6 Temp HP
She ends one effect on it causing it to be charmed or frightened.
BA: Not wanting to go down so soon, Maya uses Healing Word on herself and regenerates 7hp, though she still doesn't feel well as she looks to Venet... Thing is if Alex wants to attack the cambion and be in range of Maya's sphere, he'd have to hold back first because of her position...
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod) Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic) Maya Kurosaki- Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time Shijiro Otsune- Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan) Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Alex grits his teeth, attempting to parry the devil's flame with his sword. The flame disintegrates as his radiant blade cuts through it, dealing no damage. Man, Cezars has really done it now.
"Yeah..," he says hesitantly, maneuvering around Renar to position himself between the 'changeling' and Cambion. Plus... it's foolish, but he really wants to fight Cezars. It's supposed to be his job to deal with the Oathbreaker, so wouldn't it make more sense for Renar to take over with the devil? Alex grits his teeth, knowing that hesitating in battle is the best way to get yourself knocked out. Renar clearly has a plan, and... well Alex doesn't, so he should just listen to his comrade.
"Wait... I have an idea." He says through clenched teeth, holding his position beside Renar as he pulls out his hand axe and chucks it as hard as he can at Cambion.
Bonus Action: Two Weapon Fighting
Attack: 16 Damage: 5
Bonus from Maya's spell: 1
Regardless as to whether or not the axe hits or misses he'll point his glowing sword at Cambion and say. "Come on, come over here to fight me." He twists his sword, so that the flat is parallel with the ground, "Approach, if you dare."
Action: (Command: Approach. The target moves toward you by the shortest and most direct route, ending its turn if it moves within 5 feet of you.)
As silly as it may seem, he has to hold back a laugh as he says that, finding the words a little absurd coming from his mouth as he faces down the demon. Plus... well he's also well aware that Cezars is the one calling the shots here. So, he adds, "Also... sorry about this. Hopefully this fight will end in favor of both of us." He's hoping to get Cambion as far away from the egg as he can so that Shugo has the best chance of escape. This way they all end up in Maya's support sphere, and he can still be close enough to everyone else to provide support too if needed. ...so long as he didn't just waste a spell slot.
After Cezars and the demon rush towards Alex, Renar, and Mira, Shugo begins his mad dash for the egg. His movement across the battlefield is seamless and silent as he expertly avoids contact with any of the mushroom-folk. Entering the circle in which the egg has been placed, he tries to scuff up some of the symbols with his feet as he passes by grabbing the egg. (Two free item interactions) (As soon as he picks up the egg, it becomes invisible as according to spell description) Then he continues dashing (Dash action 80ft movement) across the battlefield, hoping to get as far away from the enemies as possible. (Until the spell ends, all attacks against Shugo have disadvantage.)
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Venet isnt the best at puzzles so she's fine letting them handle this. Plus it would mean reading through a bunch of other sad documents and that's already put a dent in her mood, not like it was great to begin with considering their day but the bard isnt feeling very musical to say the least. She just shrugs when Alex asks his question. It's better than three numbers that's for sure.
Alex nods, then hesitantly punches in the new password, praying to God that it's right since he really doesn't want to take a gamble with their last chance.
And indeed, He answered Alex's prayers. The metal door opens after Alex enters the code, revealing a stone bridge, and to the left side of the bridge, about 60 ft down, is a 'normal' cave.
Wait, something is not right. There are pieces of rocks littered on the ground as if someone used a very powerful explosive to blow up yet another section. On the other end of the bridge is a waterfall and a hut, the hole above the waterfall looks like it leads to the surface; you can see raindrops hitting the water. There is no cloud in the Underdark, so rain wouldn't be possible without magic.
The hut looks like it's empty, but you aren't here for these two anyway, you're here for what's down the cliff.
You see Cezars and Myconids, about twenty of them, gathering in a circle. The fire Genasi is drawing a ritual circle centred on a dragon egg from earlier, behind him is another completed magic circle, it's much smaller than the one he's currently drawing, and it's glowing red, which means it's active.
These myconids look different from the one you encountered last night, their cap (head) comes in various shades of blue, the ones from last night have a much wider range of colours.
"Wait... that's the dragon egg from earlier!" Elsa whispers to both groups, "What's he doing, though?"
"From the looks of it, probably not something good," Simo replies, then he looks to your group. "If you have any spells you want to cast before battle, do it now. We'll deal with the Myconids, you rescue the eggs, got it?"
"W-wait!" Kazimieras calls out, twiddling his fingers. "Uh... I think I'll go now, I can't do much with this makeshift spear. Thank you so much for everything, guys, if you come to Hlotis, you can find me again in the capital. See you later." He silently takes off towards the waterfall and flies up, disappearing into the shaft above.
"Bye!" Elsa waves to him, smiling.
While you are discussing your plans, you hear Simo's team talking among themselves too.
"Myconids... Aunt Jedwiga runs into them from time to time, they might not be the strongest, but when it comes to information, they know pretty much everything." Danils explains, pulling out an arrow from his quiver. "They're semi-hive-minded, meaning every single Myconids on this planet shares the same set of memories, and it's generational too, they remembered pretty much everything ever since they evolved into this form millions of years ago."
"Interesting..." Liega rubs her chin, "Does that mean they know what Project Bahamut is?"
"They might, but they won't tell. Anyone with any semblance of a brain would know that revealing the biggest secret to ever exist in Lancean history is a really, really bad move. Besides, I don't want to know what Project Bahamut is, what's the point of going on a grand adventure when you already know what lies ahead at the final destination?" He shrugs.
OOC Note:
Because I don't want combat to take too long, I didn't place the tokens of other myconids on Owlbear, just Cezars. Simo's party will fight them off-screen, if you lose, they lose, if you win, they win.
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
—Richard Dawkins
DM—Stories From The End of The World: Episode I
Mira
"Excellent! I'm glad to know that you've successfully solved it! Well done, Alex!" Mira hoots to Alex with multiple claps. Even though he technically didn't solve it by himself, it's still one to be proud of. "Alright. We better get moving, before we all start to lose track of where we are!" She hears Renar as he walks behind her telling everyone to go, though she's wondering why are they choosing to stay behind other than watch over the stuff they're hiding...
"You coming, Maya? No? Wait... What are you-?! What do you mean guard the back door? There's no one behind us!" Mira huffs impatiently after seeing the two oddballs stray behind the rest. Seeing Maya nodding to her, Mira doesn't really want to take her chances again, seeing that they might have been hiding some live people behind their doors. Oh well. "Ok. Fine. You better be quick though or we'll start the assault without you. Let's go, Renar. They're already ahead of us." She warns In the cave, assuming that Renar is currently Mira takes second in position, behind whoever's willing to lead. Once inside, she briefly scans the situation: On her left is the surface it seems, judging by the endless downpour of rain. On the right... There's a dragon egg encased in some sort of inactivated ritual circle. A guy with fire hair is patrolling the area plus some blue mushroom thingies... what on earth are they trying to do with that egg?! Is that why these guys are so hell bent on tearing him down?!
"Is that your target? The fire guy that you guys were rumoring about wanting to punish?" Mira tries to confirm. She also however, spots those weird-looking mushrooms flanking his sides. They don't seem like immediate threats to two massive groups, but even so, that doesn't mean they can take them lightly in combat, especially when they're armed. Semi-minded. Same mind, same memories, huh? Interesting... Project Bahamut... she doesn't want to know, though she might have seen it in the notes before... "Seems like your target has earned some more allies... I wonder where his two girlfriends that captured me went to?" She jokes. She then glances back to the door; Maya is still holding the door open. What is taking them so long? Now what on earth is she and Renar up to...
Wait... Where's Renar? Wasn't he walking behind her a moment ago?! Argh! She got deceived! Now she can't even see him from this far enough distance... Wasn't he supposed to...? "Psst! guys! Wait! We're short on someone!" Mira whispers to the group, hoping they would take notice of his absence... Speaking of which... she's wondering, who is supposed to be the tactician of this group? Because right now she doesn't have a plan on how to deal with them and save the egg...
Renar
I'm glad that Alex managed to get the password right this time. I was worried that the trap would activate and kill not only us but our 'ancestors' hiding inside the room too... Whatever. It worked, so my first instinct is to proceed to attack Stupid Rixi with a carefully concocted plan whilst we could save the dragon egg in the process.
However, as I move to trail behind them, I couldn't stop thinking about the angered states of the kitsunes we were supposed to have befriended. I need to do something quick if I don't want to endanger their trust... And that means isolating myself from the rest again...
"You all go first. Me and Maya will watch the back in case some people try to ambush us from behind. Just go." I usher them as I deliberately trail slowly as if I was gonna trail behind them. The bunny girl would definitely be suspicious of me for sure, considering her rather nosy behaviour these past few hours... I need to drop her guard again for a while... But still, I patiently let the others go ahead of me without saying a word, gesturing to Okaa-san to stay close to me while I'm at it.
Once they're all on the other side of this hell hole, I gesture to Okaa-san to hold the door open whilst I swiftly duck back out of the bunny girl's sight to quickly write a small note to those two, hoping that she'd been deceived again. I then open the door slowly, sliding the paper into the gap along with 3 rations from my bag.
What I just said to you earlier, I'm sorry if I caused a misunderstanding when I didn't mean to. I... You guys just made us two nervous I'll admit. The next time we meet, I hope we can better get along. But for now, take this food as a sign of my apology. Eat up. I'm sure you two hungry now that you've came out of stasis. The password for the main door is 1383. If you're still intent on helping us despite what I said to hurt you both, enter the passcode, go through this door and you can show us your pride however you care. Or not, if you don't want to, but neither me or Maya... we won't stop you two.
P.S: By the way, this person we're fighting on the other side... he's a fire genasi, corrupting a dragon egg. And... he himself and his family are against you both; They hate your race and they claim they were also trying to find and kill you; They want your kind to be better off dead unlike us two. Just saying.
After this I scamper towards the door before Okaa-san could slam the door shut on me. Both of us couldn't really move to a better position at the front as a result seeing how cramped the cave is, but there was another rickety bridge. And beneath it, I could see something flickering light a sore thumb. A light in the midst of darkness...
As I look down towards that flickering flame, I grit my teeth and snarl. There he is. Our main target to subdue and... What? Okaa-san's now whispering into my ears... what does she want from me now? "Okaa-san?" I whisper to her and... Ok. Stupid Rixi's there. I know. No surprise. He is our target after-
My ears then jolt from under my disguise in shock. I then look again to see something that seems to have shocked Okaa-san... wait... WHAT?! The mushroom guys she befriended earlier have now taken Stupid Rixi's side?! And the dragon egg... what is he...?! Great... Now I can't even formulate out battle strategy clearly to the others since they're telepathic... Unless...
*Deliberately held back for everyone plus my fading brain cells*
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer (Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Alex has successfully opened the door without triggering the alarm. Whew, that's a relief. She was scared to death about facing the wrath of poison gas along with the thought of her kitsune companions dying. Whilst the others slowly move through, she notices her son gesturing at her to hold the door. Hold the door for what, she's thinking? She takes one last look back towards the door though, wondering what her son is now up to after agreeing to stay behind. Is he writing an apology note to them or something? He better make this quick; The others including Mira have already gone past the door and once it locks again, there's no turning back. "Renar-kun! Isoide! (急いで, Hurry up!)" She yells at him, already getting impatient of this irony.
Eventually, after a few more minutes of waiting, Renar does zoom past her before she could shut the door on him. Maya is positioned at the back, unable to move up to the centre or the front considering how cramped the new passageway is. Whilst not as perceptive as her son, she does manage to snuff out the bridge, her worst nightmare after the recent incident, their main target that she slapped a few days ago. Considering that she hasn't fought him personally, she already has an idea on how to protect the almost disorganized group for as long as possible whilst she draws the egg to safety. Wait... is that... alongside 'Rixian'...? Hang on a minute...
"Uh... Renar-kun..." She stutters into his concealed ears. Maya's face is immediately drained of colour however, when she notices not Cezars, but a familiar living spore. The Myconids, whom she befriended a few hours ago. And now they've switched sides. Seriously?! Thing is, were those the actual myconids she initially encountered? If they are then... seems like her son is right about not trusting species they don't know... And once again she can't understand anything that Simo's group is saying now that her translator has ceased...
Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod)
Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic)
Maya Kurosaki - Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea
Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time
Shijiro Otsune - Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan)
Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian)
Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
"Uh thanks," Alex chuckles, "It was a group effort though! I just pushed the buttons."
When they enter the next area to find Cezars preparing some unholy ritual on an unborn child, Alex grits his teeth. Fortunately, he's sensible enough not to blow their element of surprise this time, listening stiffly as Simo and Elsa talk about the situation.
He gives Kaz a salute when the vampire takes off and says quietly, "Safe travels. Hopefully we'll meet again!"
When Simo says that he doesn't really want to know what the artifact is, Alex smiles and quotes one of his favorite stories, "'Journey before destination.' Personally I wouldn't mind knowing what it is. After all, our destination isn't what matters, it's the steps we take to get there that make the journey worthwhile. I'd be willing to ask them if they can give us any information at all. Who knows, whatever we learn from them could determine the fate of the world. What if we find the artifact and can't use it just because we didn't ask these..." Then he realizes that he's talking about 'talking' to the Myconids, and trails off... covering his mouth and nose as he remembers exactly what that would involve. "Uh... Simo... do you have any idea why these Myconids would be... well helping Cezars? We met some other Myconids earlier, they helped Maya and I get back to the group after we were separated... thanks to Cezars. Or... if they aren't helping him, what are they doing?"
Shaking his head, he forces himself to focus, "Alright. We'll handle Cezars and the egg then." He says this a little too eagerly, though it isn't clear if he just wants to go after Cezars or if he's just glad that he won't have to deal with the mushroom folk.
His sword lights up as he channels his divine energy, just like the first time they fought Cezars (Channel Divinity: Sacred Weapon). "Let's get this guy, and save that dragon! Ready when you are." He prepares to rush into battle, clearly not even thinking about trying to use surprise to their advantage. "Oh... we also should remember that he has that ring of invisibility. I... don't know why he took it off, unless it would interfere with whatever he's doing, but... just something to be aware of. We also need to recover it for Kaz if possible."
Shugo gazes down at the scene unfolding before them giving little notice to what Renar and Maya are up to. It's not that he hasn't picked up on their weird behavior, more that he figures that there's something personal going on between them and maybe whatever is in that room... He just hopes no one but Venet has picked up on his own feelings. He barely notices as the vampire flies off, he didn't have any particular feelings towards him anyways. However, when Simo and his group start talking he gives them his attention.
"Sounds like a fine plan to me." He says, then continues. "While we still have the jump on them, how's about I run down there and grab that egg while invisible? I know they'll notice it's gone as soon as I touch it, but at least my invisibility will ensure I can get close." He shrugs. If the egg is considered an item, it would become invisible as soon as he picks it up. If not, the egg would appear to float. Either way, Cezars would know somethings up. "Once I grab the egg, that would be your signal to attack. Sound good? Or would you rather us all just jump him now? I for one would like to get that egg out of that magic ring thing as soon as possible..."
Mira
"Where the hell did you go, you bozo?!" She curses at Renar, despite not getting a response upon his arrival. But her attention then averts to the current scenario, plus Shugo and Alex wanting to charge into the fray to rescue the dragon egg and defeat him for good. It sounds genuine, but Mira does have her concerns. She's imagining that everyone charges in without thinking of a formation whilst Shugo sneaks past to retrieve the egg; Not everyone is adept at close combat, especially herself. And what if any of them get knocked down? How is the team going to recover after that? There are many factors she needs to consider, that she cannot provide solutions to at the moment, given that she isn't born with a warrior's mindset.
"To me, my best guess is that half of us splits up to guard the egg whilst you melee fighters do your best to ward off... whatever that idiot's name is until we've succefully retrieved the egg safely. That's all I can muster in my head. I'm not skilled in devising combat techniques on the spot unless if you guys have anything else to offer." She says as she puts a paw to her chin. She then notices Renar deep in thought. What is he scheming now? Or is... is does he actually have a plan in mind that could put them in a better position? Already feeling repelled by his and Shugo's negative feelings, Mira probably should not pry into their thought any more until after combat. "Hey oddball. You have something to say that we need to know? Come on. You two get to the front and join us! Don't just hang in the back and lag behind us!"
Mira does have a defense she's willing to bolster, but she's gonna hold off just in case until everyone moves downstairs... or if Venet has something stronger than what she knows.
Renar
I couldn't really see what's going on at the back since the rest have taken the front and aren't willing to budge. But I can already hear Shugo and Alex rambling about stealthing for there former and charging at Stupid Rixi for the latter. Heh. I'm unironically glad they thought of that themselves. They actually kinda read me there; That was kind of my plan actually as I closed my eyes to gather my thoughts...
Since negotiations with this idiot would end up in vain, we'll fight in two small groups. At the start of the fight, both group take defensive positions but stay within 20ft of each other in our own split ones in case members have an AOE spell that would help everyone in range. You four will handle the mushroom guys whilst we make a diversion to distract Stupid Rixi; You guys keep them away from our main target, unless if you're intending to encircle them. If you have any formations to lay out, discuss them amongst yourselves, since I assume you're gonna do this with just you four.
Back to us six, we'll split into three frontliners, and three backliners. My idea is that we form triangle formations, with me, Alex and Mermaid girl as one and Mira, Okaa-san and Shugo as another. From there it's all about controlling the conditions that are presented to us; Alex will keep him at bay from the egg on his right. I will position myself in the center just behind Alex's right as a decoy whilst Shugo will stealth behind me and to my right to retrieve before whatever ritual he's doing can finish. I'll move left at a safe distance from the egg and guard your flank in case Stupid Rixi comes into my direction.
And as for all of the ladies, well... What you just said, Mira, I'm taking your concerns seriously. As such, position yourselves wisely behind us and play to your strengths, especially for Okaa-san, who seems to be the most injured right now; I know what she'll immediately conjure as soon as the fight begins and we need her to stay conscious for the entire fight. Mermaid lady and Mira, I don't know what combat capabilities you two ladies have, but if you can, provide us your own buffs or coverage from behind as much as you can. We will appreciate the support that you two are giving and will do our best to shield you in return. Okaa-san, I know what you're going to cast, so the timing of it must be critical. Watashi no aizu de, got it? I also need one of you girls to watch over me and Alex whilst the other two keeps an eye out for Shugo and any other potential threats that could hinder our fight. I won't advise it but you girls can charge into the fray if you have nothing else to cast. I also kind of expect this to fail but, If he doesn't somehow conjure more undead warriors to fight against us we'll find some way to push his back near the water's edge. If Stupid Rixi does in fact summon his minions, do your best to hold out against them one by one whilst Alex focuses on distracting the main target.
Whilst I'm aware of the tensions surfacing amongst us all, that doesn't mean we should let this hinder our ability to fight alongside each other. I may not look like your sensitive, friendly changeling on the outside, but on the inside, I want the combined forces to succeed and take another step close to disaster prevention. As a fallen comrade of mine said: "The victor isn't victorious if the vanquished does not considered himself so." I believe you all have got this in the bag; Don't worry if you feel useless one minute because believe me: You'll never be in my eyes. Set our aside our differences to fight a common enemy, and rise to glory, together. Understood? Well then... if everyone's happy... Wings stripped away, the end is nigh! Let's move! Before we face a colossal threat that might hatch in seconds!
As I open my eyes, I noticed how tense the atmosphere is right now with all twelve of us staring at each other; Shugo and Alex have partially blurted out part of my plan, so I don't think it would be wise to add too much of a piece of my mind. Alex looks confident he can lead the group, but I'm more worried about his rush and swing tactics once he actually enters the fray. Shugo's stealth, cool. I'll guard him from the front to deceive Stupid Rixi. I may also have to guard the side, possibly retreat a small distance so that Alex can turn and attack and then vice-versa whilst Shugo does his thing. Also, if Stupid Rixi is alone, that means we'll either have to either brace for a horde of undead or an unexpected ambush, hence why I'm not keen in all of us charging at once onto the battlefield. Other than Shugo's invisibility there's no way we can stealth on an empty battlefield. Speaking of stealth, Stupid Rixi's invisibility ring isn't something I had considered either. One of us will need to pry it off his hand at some point if we want to hinder him...
Oh yeah. Defenses. That's another thing we need to prioritise. Even so, I decided to limit myself on my actual strategy just so people view me as a show off. In response to Mira, I bluntly reply with a nervous frown... "I don't have anything to offer but, when we reach the bottom of the stairs, everyone stay within at least 20ft of each other and start off defensive, including you, Shugo. You head to the right unnoticed whilst I guard you on your left. If anyone has any spells to conjure either on themselves on others, do so straight away. It's better to consume six seconds to better protect ourselves than to charge in and leave ourselves vulnerable to fatal attacks." I then turn to Okaa-san, who I know the most out of everyone here. Okaa-san's looking at me with fierce, shut eyes as I nod back. I know. I know exactly what you're intending to set up. But the timing needs to be on point, as I had imagined. "Oka- I mean... Maya-san. Watashi no aizu de (私の合図で, On my cue)."
Speaking of defenses... I should set up mine up straight away too... as my katana hilt, not my sheath, glows a warm hue of yellow surrounded with crackling yellow lightning for now. Because this time, I'm starting off with my weapon unsheathed. (Blur and Bladesinger; AC goes back to 18, +4 to concentration, Walk speed increased to 45ft) *Loveless Act II* "Wings stripped away, the end is nigh. Let's move. Before we face another colossal threat that could hatch in seconds." As we move into position downstairs, something also tells me to hold off the team encouragement...
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer (Clockwork Soul); Lancea
"I might have an idea." He says, following the group downstairs, the rest of his party is following behind him. "Myconids share their consciousness, not just memories, but emotions and senses too—if one of them feels pain, every other Myconids on this planet will feel it." Simo draws his sword, "That's their main weakness, if you hurt one of them enough, they will have no choice but to bow down to you." In short, Cezars might have tortured one of the individual Myconid and coerced the rest to join him.
Speaking of Myconids, as you creep up closer to Cezars, one of the blue-capped folk releases a spore. It's too far out for you to sense, but Cezars seems to be annoyed at the message. "That will be my trump card, everyone on this planet will hunt them down. No quarter given for those savages." You've already seen this before, but someone talking to a Myconid from afar would look like they're talking to themselves...
Wait, savages?
The fire Genasi points at the smaller, red magical ring. "If we get lucky, we might summon a high-rank demon on the first try... I'm not going to say my plan out loud for the second time, because every time I do that, these brats just appear out of nowhere and ruin everything!" He kicks a pebble off the floor in frustration.
Then, the red magical ring glows very brightly, the ground rumbles, and smoke starts to rise from the centre of the circle. And then, a cambion pops into existence.
Demons... you've heard many stories about them and seen their pictures in the textbook, but this is the first time you've met one in real life. Lancea is a very safe planet, there are no cults running around summoning demons everywhere, so the chance of seeing one in a lifetime is almost zero, but it's almost zero, not impossible.
"What the heaven? Where am I?" The cambion looks around, dazed and confused... getting pulled out of existence into another realm must be a jarring experience.
Cezars crosses his arms, "Welcome to Lancea." The Myconids all bow down to the newly arrived cambion and they send more spores in the air, probably briefing the demon about the situation and why he's summoned here.
Well, it's time to act.
There are a lot of people here, so Shugo's stealth checks will be made with a disadvantage, however, his invisibility cancels it out, so roll it normally.
Place your tokens on the Owlbear battle map.
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
—Richard Dawkins
DM—Stories From The End of The World: Episode I
Mira
As she descends down the stairs, Mira gasps softly as she sees a massive, bulky fiend coming out of the circle. Holy hell. So these five weren't kidding with doing justice to this idiot of Adelaide's huh? Well then. It's time to prove to her mother than she can be more than just a noble bunny.
"Gahahaha! Say your plan out loud?" Mira jeers at Cezars with a ferocious cackle. "What is it, huh? Tell me more! Before I go out and spread the news that you, one: left me with your stupid goons hang to be humiliated and two: Did something dastardly like this! We ain't letting you two off the hook! You guys! Holy boy's goons! Do your thing!"
She then turns to Alex, smiling at him with absolute confidence that he can manage, before scowling at Renar, who is close to where he is standing near him. "You two... I don't know you boys well but, Mr Oddball... I trust that you and holy boy have this under control. If I see him unconscious, that's it. You reveal to me what's under that hood of yours, or I'll force you to do so. Understood? That aside, break a leg. (Literally)" She says to Renar, whispering her last word to both in a low voice before keeping at least 25ft away from the two swordfighters current position next to Venet and Maya. Before that though, she whispers in celestial as green spectral clocks hover again, buffing the two of them so they can further... cope with...
Wait...
Wings stripped away, the end is nigh... She thinks as she contemplates Renar's words... and then her jaw slightly hangs in midair in shocks just after she further buffs Alex and Renar with twinned [Tooltip Not Found]. Wait... isn't that...?! What... That can't be! How does he know it...?!
Until the spell ends or if Mira loses concentration, two willing creatures (Alex and Renar, Twinned Spell) she touches are protected against certain types of creatures: aberrations, celestials, elementals, fey, fiends, and undead.
The protection grants several benefits. Creatures of those types have disadvantage on attack rolls against Alex
and Renar. They also can't be charmed, frightened, or possessed by them. If either of them is already charmed, frightened, or possessed by such a creature, they have advantage on any new saving throw against the relevant effect.Mira Initiative: 9 (22)
*NGL I actually don't have Mira's token, let alone where to find it...*
Renar
I knew something dastardly was about to go wrong. The moment my eyes locked onto that stupid genasi summoning a freaking devil into this realm, my heart sank, my tail stiffens as my anger bubbled, or crackled, in this case, since I'm a lightning user. Even so, that wouldn't mean I'd abandon this plan to rescue the dragon egg. We just need to fend him for as long as possible. I nod to Okaa-san first, to wait for my signal, and the to Shugo to go ahead and do his thing, before eyeing the battlefield. At least, until the bunny girl distracted me from my current field of view... Whatever she is saying to me, it unnerved me a little that she would try to unveil my cover. But I mostly just shrugged it off. "Whatever. Keep your distance from us frontliner as much as possible. Make sure Shugo is well guarded too." I could only say to her as I shuffle forwards with Alex, the only hard hitter in the group.
"Alex... slight change of plans. That winged guy that came out of nowhere..." I snarl as my unsheathed katana glows an even brighter yellow. "I'll leave him to you. Draw them away. Make sure Shugo gets to safety." I then unsheathe my katana for real, firmly positioning my back against his as I maintain my own stance with his on his right. They look strong, but comparing that to our current teamwork, they've got nothing on us.
At this point, I'm imagining Tenebris, Shijro or Rixian to be by my side; for the latter third, both are paladins, both are highly emotional and both would make great sparring partners both in practice and in combat. Maybe, just maybe, if the opportunity comes as I imagine it, I could teach him a team combo of mine... but not right now. We have a problem to clean up, before it becomes a crisis.
"Alex." I say to him again with a more aggressive voice. "On me."
Renar Initiative: 18
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer (Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Alex Initiative: 7
Alexander flinches as the demon is summoned right before their eyes, "He's really lost it hasn't he..." He shakes his head. Now isn't the time to think, it's the time to act. "Alright, Shugo, we'll distract them while you get the egg. ...just get it as far away from here as you can. ...maybe hide it or something so you can come back and help us out if needed? But first priority is getting it to safety."
He readies his glowing sword, "Second is freeing the myconids from Cezars. Maybe we can get them on our side, and they can share his plan with us once this is over."
He grins as Renar joins him, glad to see that his friend is once more in the mood for teamwork. Raising his sword as the 'changing' positions himself back to back with him he says, "Right." Then points his blade at their first opponent. Cezars is going down. Together, they won't let him get to Paulis.
(lol, I can't stop watching that gif :'D)
Shugo nods to Renar, pleased to see the 'changeling' has reverted back to his usual behavior rather than being both sulky and angry. It sounds like they have a solid plan...though he's not sure how Renar expects the others to know where he is when he's invisible... well he supposes that he probably wont be invisible after grabbing the egg.
He squints down at the circle when the demon suddenly pops up out of it. Fantastic. Now they have two enemies to deal with. Oh well, best get on with this. The elf makes an odd hand sign, snaps his fingers then vanishes just as Mira starts yelling at Cezars for some reason. Well.. so much for surprise. At least she can serve as a distraction. "I'm off then." He whispers to Venet and Renar before moving towards the circle and the egg.
Initiative: 18
Stealth: 11
Demons?! Great! Just great! Just what she needed as she lumbers downstairs with bared teeth and sharpened, red fingernails running along the edges of her soft hands. Whilst the entire history of Lancea and its ways of living are foreign to her, dealing with a devil like this isn't. Seeing the rest of the team taking a round to start in defensive positions, the kitsune is the last one to take her stance as she eyes the two targets before she notices Shugo vanishing out of the blue, just like her two children sneaking off from her line of vision to go an play or fight, except literally.
Speaking of which, the kitsune is slow to realise it, but unless if Venet has set up her own defenses beforehand, she's the last to sets hers up, minus her signature ability, whom she ha yet to hear a signal from her son. Speaking of her son, it seems that he and Alex have been receiving the most support, so she instead turns her attention to the other three who haven't received one themselves. Clasping her sharpened claws, she chants in Japanese as she herself plus Venet, Mira and Shugo find themselves buffed by her Blessing.
Maya's Initiative: 5 (As she finishes her enchantment, she then clumsily trips on her elongated dress and faceplants on the ground with a fox-like yelp whilst attempting to move forwards and be in 20ft range of the allies. Real dramatic entrance there...)
(Yeah about bad initiative rolls lol)
Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod)
Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic)
Maya Kurosaki - Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea
Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time
Shijiro Otsune - Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan)
Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian)
Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
Once the plan is set, and the level of surprise is blown, Venet will sigh then will reach out and cast Faerie Fire centered on Cezars. She looks a little unsure of Shugo going off on his own, but as long as they keep the others focused he should be fine. He should be fine, right?
--------------
Initiative: 12
Faerie Fire: DC 14 Dex
Initiative
You: 6
1. Mira (22)
2. Renar (18)
3. Alex (7)
4. Shugo (11)
5. Maya (5)
6. Venet (12)
Them: 1
1. Cezars (14)
2. Cambion (20)
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
—Richard Dawkins
DM—Stories From The End of The World: Episode I
"What? Why are they still here, they are supposed to fear me!" Cezars gasps, spotting Simo's team just right behind your party. But after Mira's taunt, his focus is now solely on you. That's it... you're going down!" Cezars whips his head at the Harengon, he takes a step back and charges at her like a rugby player... He draws out his sabre and...
"Hold on! Can we be a bit more civilised? Why am I attacking these innocent adventurers!?" The Cambion calls out from the distance, and right as he says that he is counter-interrupted again.
"Just shut up and fight, Cambion, I didn't summon you here so you play around debating!" Cezars shouts back... and it seems to have an effect on the summoned demon too, the Cambion clutches his head for a moment, then nods. It seems like he's being forced against his will.
He walks forward for a few steps, flames lighting in his hand, the winged demon throws two orbs of fire, one at Maya, and the other at Alex.
It doesn't seem like the two notice Shugo is there, which is good, but the moment he grabs the egg, they will definitely come for him.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the cave, Simo's team is fighting the myconids. Elsa is a spellcaster, but she specialises in ice-based spells, so she can do something like freezing the ground and making the mushrooms slip. Simo's fighting style is already obvious, he's a frontline and his attack pattern is a lot like Alex's (After all, both of them probably practised with each other a lot during childhood). Liega is a sneaky and stabby type, finishing off weakened enemies and dashing behind unsuspecting ones. And Danils uses a bow, so he stays in the backline and snipes enemies from the skies.
You'll definitely need their fighting style information later on, since Simo did say he wanted a spar with the party.
Cezars: Action; Dash
Cambion: Fire Ray—Maya; 16 to hit, 17 fire damage. Alex; 24 to hit, 23 fire damage.
DEX Save (Faerie Fire): Cezars 20, Cambion 7
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
—Richard Dawkins
DM—Stories From The End of The World: Episode I
Mira
As expected of her, Cezar rushed straight for her... but not Shugo. All they need to do now is buy him time to bring the egg to safety. Bonus points if they can be taken down in the process. Though... she can tell the Cambion doesn't actually want to fight on his will. That's rare of someone so devilish...
Even so, she jolts in horror when Maya is suddenly struck by a fire ray from the devil. And yet... she can't heal her at all... That wasn't the plan was it? To see the kitsune go down so early? Crap... she better draw the fire away from those girls... She then smirks and then goads to Cezars. "Heh. Strike me down all you want. I just love it when you and your schematics burn to ashes in the end, pun intended!"
I hope this is what you wanted, oddball... Venet... please back up the kitsune... I offer thee... this, well... not-so-silent sacrifice! She thinks, glancing towards Renar as she backflips over Cezars and near the second tiny rock for half-cover in case the cambion decides to target her, nevermind the fact that she's now out of Maya's range.
BA: Rabbit hop; As a bonus action, Mira can jump 10 ft. past Cezars without provoking opportunity attacks.
Action: Sticking to Renar's plan to draw them away from the vulnerable, she moves all of her distance to draw Cezars away towards the second tiny rock, before she face back toward him as a clock appears in front of her and turns from green to blue, as the Fire Genasi then spots a Ray of Frost being hurled in his direction (Attack: 25 + 1 from Bless assuming Maya still holds her ground, Damage: 2 Ice; Speed slowed down by 10ft if it hits)
Whilst she's bracing herself to be knocked out first thing, if Cezars does in fact, still decides to unleash his rage on her when she puts Renar in a flanking position, she'll use her spectral clock as her Shield in response, and especially if the cambion decides to turn on her next. If not she'll hold her precious spells.
Renar
Huh? That's odd. The guy doesn't want to fight us even though Stupid Rixi summoned him? At least... until I saw Okaa-san hit by.. NO!
"MAYA!" No... he knows doesn't he...he's targeting our strongest fighter. I can't let that happen! "Alex... you heard what he said? Keep him at bay!"
With the silver sheen on my katana glowing bright yellow, I then silently but speedily approach and slash Stupid Rixi as he chases down the bunny- wait. She's jumping away?! Where is she going?! This isn't part of what I hoped, damn it!
*Shocking Grasp: 8, 23 if Cezars has his armour on, Damage: 1 Lightning (pfft), Can't take reactions if the latter condition is in effect*
But then, without giving him the hint, I flick one of my thumbs towards Okaa-san into her direction, gesturing... NOW!
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer (Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Maya's Concentration: 4 (Wow very good rolls there, especially the NAT 20 damage :D)
Maya yells in pain upon taking a blast that almost singed her fur and was too much to handle to keep her bless up. If it wasn't for her son entering the fray, she would have retreated almost immediately. But then she spots something with her shut eyes...
Action: Seeing her son's gesture hidden in plain view of everyone but her alone, Maya moves behind the rock underneath Venet and out of the cambion's sight just in case (once Shugo has left the place though), before she then mutters in pained Japanese: "Ugh... Tasogare... No Seiki! (黄昏の聖域, Twilight Sanctuary)"
As an action, Maya conjures a sphere of twilight (no concentration) that is centered on her, has a 30-foot radius, and is filled with dim light. The sphere moves with her, and it lasts for 1 minute or until she is incapacitated or die (does unconscious count?). Whenever an ally (including herself) ends its turn in the sphere, Maya can repeatedly grant them one of these benefits for this fight:
She grants it 6 Temp HP
She ends one effect on it causing it to be charmed or frightened.
BA: Not wanting to go down so soon, Maya uses Healing Word on herself and regenerates 7hp, though she still doesn't feel well as she looks to Venet... Thing is if Alex wants to attack the cambion and be in range of Maya's sphere, he'd have to hold back first because of her position...
Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod)
Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic)
Maya Kurosaki - Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea
Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time
Shijiro Otsune - Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan)
Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian)
Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
Alex grits his teeth, attempting to parry the devil's flame with his sword. The flame disintegrates as his radiant blade cuts through it, dealing no damage. Man, Cezars has really done it now.
"Yeah..," he says hesitantly, maneuvering around Renar to position himself between the 'changeling' and Cambion. Plus... it's foolish, but he really wants to fight Cezars. It's supposed to be his job to deal with the Oathbreaker, so wouldn't it make more sense for Renar to take over with the devil? Alex grits his teeth, knowing that hesitating in battle is the best way to get yourself knocked out. Renar clearly has a plan, and... well Alex doesn't, so he should just listen to his comrade.
"Wait... I have an idea." He says through clenched teeth, holding his position beside Renar as he pulls out his hand axe and chucks it as hard as he can at Cambion.
Bonus Action: Two Weapon Fighting
Attack: 16 Damage: 5
Bonus from Maya's spell: 1
Regardless as to whether or not the axe hits or misses he'll point his glowing sword at Cambion and say. "Come on, come over here to fight me." He twists his sword, so that the flat is parallel with the ground, "Approach, if you dare."
Action: (Command: Approach. The target moves toward you by the shortest and most direct route, ending its turn if it moves within 5 feet of you.)
As silly as it may seem, he has to hold back a laugh as he says that, finding the words a little absurd coming from his mouth as he faces down the demon. Plus... well he's also well aware that Cezars is the one calling the shots here. So, he adds, "Also... sorry about this. Hopefully this fight will end in favor of both of us." He's hoping to get Cambion as far away from the egg as he can so that Shugo has the best chance of escape. This way they all end up in Maya's support sphere, and he can still be close enough to everyone else to provide support too if needed. ...so long as he didn't just waste a spell slot.
After Cezars and the demon rush towards Alex, Renar, and Mira, Shugo begins his mad dash for the egg. His movement across the battlefield is seamless and silent as he expertly avoids contact with any of the mushroom-folk. Entering the circle in which the egg has been placed, he tries to scuff up some of the symbols with his feet as he passes by grabbing the egg. (Two free item interactions) (As soon as he picks up the egg, it becomes invisible as according to spell description) Then he continues dashing (Dash action 80ft movement) across the battlefield, hoping to get as far away from the enemies as possible. (Until the spell ends, all attacks against Shugo have disadvantage.)