The cave narrows to a steep fissure at the far end, and is filled with the stench of animals. Savage snarls and the sounds of rattling chains greet your ears where three wolves are chained up just inside the opening. Each wolf's chain leads to an iron rod driven into the base of a stalagmite.
A narrow opening in the east wall leads to a natural chimney that climbs 30'. At the base of the fissure is rubbish that's probably been discarded through the opening above. It shouldn't be difficult to climb if you can get there.
The problem is the wolves... chained as they are, they can't reach you (and bite) while you're still on the steps. However, if you advance into the room they can reach you - and perhaps attack you, because they seem ferocious.
Merric readies his bow: "What do you say? Shall we take them down one by one from a distance?"
Torrga observes: "Doing as you say, we should kill them easily, Merric... but I wouldn't want the wolves' yelps of pain and barks of anger to betray our presence! Do you want me to try to calm them down? I have some experience with animals..."
Lola looks at the elf wizard, uncertain: "What do you propose, Aeleth?"
Aeleth analyzes the situation carefully, weighing the risks and potential outcomes. He recognizes that taking down the wolves from a distance would be a relatively easy task, but the noise they would make could indeed alert any other creatures lurking within the hideout.
On the other hand, Torrga's suggestion to attempt calming the wolves holds promise, but it also carries the risk of the wolves becoming agitated and attacking. Aeleth considers Torrga's experience with animals and believes that the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
He proposes a two-pronged approach. First, Torrga should attempt to approach the wolves cautiously and calmly, using her soothing voice and gentle demeanor to try to pacify them. During this time, Aeleth will cast the spell Minor Illusion to create the sound of a wolf mother gently lulling her cubs to sleep. The soothing melody fills the cavern, its calming effect resonating with the wolves' instincts.
Simultaneously, Aeleth casts the cantrip Prestidigitation, causing a warm, inviting glow to emanate from Torrga's form. This gentle radiance further reinforces the illusion of safety and tranquility, reducing the wolves' wariness and aggression.
If Torrga's attempt to calm the wolves proves unsuccessful, Merric will be ready to act with his bow, quickly and precisely eliminating the threat before they can harm the group.
Aeleth believes that this combination of Torrga's animal expertise, Merric's ranged accuracy, and his own magical support provides the best chance of both neutralizing the wolves and maintaining their stealth.
Under the combined influence of the soothing sounds and calming glow, the wolves' agitated behavior subsides. Their snarls turn to whimpers, their chains rattling less frantically. Torrga, her approach slow and deliberate, extends her hand towards the nearest wolf, her voice gentle and reassuring.
The wolf, initially hesitant, tentatively sniffs Torrga's outstretched hand. As it senses no threat, it allows Torrga to gently stroke her fur, her body relaxing under her touch. The other two wolves, witnessing their companion's peaceful interaction with Torrga, gradually calm down as well.
"It's working!" the mulatto warrior nudges the elf wizard gently, with genuine admiration in her voice.
Aeleth, watching the scene unfold with satisfaction, silently withdraws the illusion and Prestidigitation. The wolves, now pacified and no longer a threat, remain in their chains, their initial ferocity replaced by a sense of tranquility.
The group has successfully neutralized the wolves without resorting to violence, maintaining their stealth and preserving their element of surprise. Aeleth's quick thinking and creative use of magic have once again proven invaluable, demonstrating his adaptability and resourcefulness of him as a wizard.
You now reach the narrow opening in the east wall leading to the natural chimney that climbs 30'...
"Shall I climb first?" suggests Lola, confident in her abilities "I'm good at climbing... and when I get to the top I can lower a rope, so you'll climb more easily"
Lola's suggestion is indeed sound. Her climbing prowess and strength would make her an excellent choice for the initial ascent, and her ability to secure a rope would greatly facilitate the ascent for the rest of the group.
Aeleth agrees with Lola's assessment. "Indeed, Lola," he confirms, his voice calm and reassuring. "Your agility and strength make you the ideal candidate for this task. Please proceed with caution, and we shall await your signal at the bottom."
Lola nods in acknowledgment, her determination evident in her eyes. She approaches the narrow opening, her muscles tensing as she prepares for the climb. With a swift and practiced movement, she grips the edges of the opening and begins her ascent, her body moving with grace and precision.
The athletic adventurer manages to find one foothold after another, advancing with determination and perseverance. In a short time she has already climbed half the distance, reaching an altitude of 15'...
The final part turns out to be more critical, with fewer and more spaced out holds... but the intrepid mulatto doesn't let herself be discouraged; when her hands close on the rock ledges, her fingers grip as if they were metal grappling hooks and her powerful legs always find a way to push her higher, always accompanied by the ghostly hand created by Aeleth's magic, which illuminates her way by constantly holding the torch a bit above the level of her head, until...
...the woman, having reached 30', right at the maximum limit to which the magic hand can go, has completed the climb! Satisfied with her success, Lola sits on a ledge just before the exit of the chimney, extracts a hemp rope from her backpack and ties one end to it, letting the other end down to her adventure companions below her.
(OOC: That's an impressive display of athleticism and determination from Lola!)
Lola's triumphant ascent fills the chamber with a surge of relief and admiration. Her companions, watching with bated breath, rejoice in her success, knowing that her climbing prowess has opened up a new path for them to explore.
With the rope secured, Aeleth, Torrga, and Merric carefully ascend the chimney, their movements guided by the faint glow of the torch held aloft by the ethereal hand. The hand, now at the limit of its reach, continues to cast its ethereal light, illuminating the path for the group as they emerge at the top of the chimney.
As they step onto the solid ground of the narrow passage, a sense of accomplishment washes over them. They have overcome the obstacle that lay before them, and their journey deeper into the Cragmaw hideout continues.
Lola, ever the resourceful warrior, secures the rope for future use, ensuring that they can retrace their steps if necessary. With the passage stretching before them, the group ventures forth, their resolve strengthened by their collective effort and the unwavering support of their companions.
The darkness that envelops them seems less oppressive, their footsteps lighter, their spirits higher. They have faced a challenge and emerged victorious, their bond as a team growing stronger with each trial they overcome.
As they press forward, the secrets of the Cragmaw hideout await them, their curiosity piqued and their determination unwavering. The path ahead may be shrouded in mystery, but with Lola, Torrga, Merric, and Aeleth leading the way, they are ready to face whatever lies ahead.
The natural chimney allowed you to reach a large cave. Near the point from which you climbed, two large stalagmites allow you to hide and peek.
Sacks and crates of (probably looted) provisions are piled up in the south end of the cave. A larger opening leads north down a set of natural stone steps, the roar of falling water echoing from beyond. In the middle of the cavern, the coals of a large fire smolder.
There is a bugbear sitting at the fire, with his mangy pet wolf and two goblins. The bugbear is wearing a hide armor and, while he warms his hands with his palms facing the fire, he is speaking in a loud and imperious voice (in Goblin Language - which unfortunately none of you know) to the two goblins. He has next to him a shield, a javelin and a morningstar. The two goblins, one bald and one with a broken tooth, are wearing leather armor, are kneeling on either side of the wolf, checking his fur and grooming him and showing great awe towards the bugbear. Both goblins have a scimitar, shield and shortbow next to them.
No one has noticed you yet.
"The bugbear seems to be the leader of the goblins..." whispers Merric "They haven't seen us... If we attack them by surprise and kill the leader, the others might surrender".
"They're definitely not expecting an attack" Lola assesses. "They have weapons and shields placed on the ground... It might be better for us to take advantage of the opportunity".
Aeleth carefully analyzes the situation, weighing the potential risks and rewards of a surprise attack. He recognizes that Merric and Lola's assessment is correct: the goblins are unprepared and vulnerable, and catching them off guard could provide a significant advantage.
However, Aeleth also considers the potential consequences of violence. Killing the bugbear and goblins could escalate the conflict and draw unwanted attention to their presence within the Cragmaw hideout. Additionally, if the element of surprise is lost, they could face a more challenging battle.
Aeleth proposes a more cautious approach, suggesting that they observe the goblins' behavior and gather more information before making a decision. He believes that understanding their movements, routines, and potential reinforcements could prove invaluable in formulating a strategic plan.
"Let's just hope they don't find us..." the halfling rogue mutters "or we'll have them all on us – and we'll have lost our advantage".
But Aeleth had guessed correctly that the Bugbear leader isn't even considering the possibility of having to face a raid through the inconvenient natural chimney... so he doesn't turn in that direction once. Larger than the goblins, the Bugbear continues to speak to them in an imperious tone. From the expressions of the two goblins, it is clear that they promptly obey him... but out of fear, certainly not out of respect or sympathy!
At one point, the Bugbear sneers loudly and gives a sharp order to the wolf, pointing his finger at the Bald Goblin. The Bald Goblin becomes deathly pale in the face, lets out a shrill cry of protest, but at the same time gets up very quickly and starts running around the cave, while the wolf chases him, trying to bite his butt. The Bugbear writhes on the ground with laughter, probably having a great time at the Bald Goblin's expense, while the other goblin, the one with the broken tooth, sighs in relief, as if he's glad he wasn't chosen for that 'fun'.
"I don't like that Bugbear one bit..." Lola grits her teeth.
The scene unfolding before the group paints a vivid picture of the bugbear's brutish nature and the goblins' fear-based obedience. The bugbear's cruel treatment of the bald goblin further solidifies their assessment of his character, fueling Lola's animosity towards him.
Aeleth nods in agreement, his expression grim. "Indeed," he murmurs "the bugbear's cruelty and disregard for life are evident. We must be cautious and decisive in our approach".
The group continues to observe the goblins, their resolve strengthened by their shared sense of justice and their determination to bring an end to the bugbear's reign of terror. They gather vital information, studying the goblins' movements, habits, and interactions, all the while preparing for the moment when they will emerge from their hiding place and confront their adversaries.
The tension in the cavern is palpable, the air thick with anticipation and the promise of impending conflict. The group stands poised at the precipice of action, their fate intertwined with the fate of the goblins under the bugbear's oppressive rule.
The bugbear has fun for a long time with his two subordinates, occasionally changing victims: when Bald Goblin, exhausted, is caught and bitten on the butt, the brutal leader issues a new order, pointing to Broken Tooth Goblin with his finger and the wolf then begins to chase him...
And so it is now Broken Tooth Goblin running wildly, trying to escape the wolf's fangs, while the previous victim, on the ground, catches his breath.
The 'fun' continues for a while, switching victims, then Torrga whispers: "The two goblins are now so tired that they couldn't fight even if they wanted to... and the wolf, who is finishing harassing the one with the broken tooth, is far away from the bugbear... What do we do? Do we attack the bugbear now? Or wait longer?"
After witnessing the bugbear's cruel and humiliating treatment of the goblins, the group is ready to act. The bugbear's blatant disregard for life and his position of authority make him the ideal target to exploit the goblins' fear and turn them against him.
Aeleth, ever the strategist, weighs the potential outcomes of attacking immediately versus waiting for a more opportune moment. He recognizes that the goblins are exhausted and demoralized, and the wolf is distracted, presenting a favorable opportunity for a surprise attack.
On the other hand, waiting for the bugbear to be isolated from his subordinates could provide an even greater advantage. If the bugbear is alone, the group could subdue him without risking harm to the goblins, potentially avoiding further bloodshed.
After careful consideration, Aeleth decides to delay their attack until the bugbear is separated from his subordinates. He believes that this approach will minimize the risk of casualties and allow them to capture the bugbear without escalating the conflict unnecessarily.
The group continues to observe the goblins, their patience tested but their resolve unwavering. They wait for the bugbear to make a move, an opportunity to strike and bring an end to his reign of terror. The tension in the cavern remains palpable, the air thick with anticipation and the promise of impending action.
As the bugbear continues to amuse himself at the expense of his exhausted subordinates, the group prepares for the moment when they will emerge from their hiding place and confront their adversaries. The fate of the goblins hangs in the balance, and the group is determined to bring justice and peace to the Cragmaw hideout.
Aeleth's patience seems to be finally rewarded! After having enjoyed himself for a long time, the bugbear lies down next to the bonfire, calling the wolf to him and gives a final order to the two goblins. These, with some relief, leave, towards the wide exit to the north, stopping to bow to the bugbear numerous times, before finally leaving sight.
Now there is only the bugbear, lying next to the bonfire, and the wolf, who comes to crouch at his feet...
Aeleth's patience and strategic mind have paid off. The bugbear, having tired of his cruel amusement, dismisses the goblins, leaving him alone with his loyal wolf companion. The opportunity for a decisive strike has arrived.
Given the bugbear's position on the ground and the element of surprise, Aeleth decides to take advantage of the favorable circumstances to deliver a decisive blow. He opts to cast the cantrip Fire Bolt, channeling arcane energy to conjure a fiery projectile that streaks towards the unsuspecting bugbear.
With his hands free thanks to the ethereal hand created by Mage Hand, Aeleth quickly forms the necessary gestures and utters the incantation for Fire Bolt. The fiery bolt erupts from his fingertips, hurtling towards the bugbear with deadly precision. The bugbear, caught off guard and still reeling from the group's sudden appearance, has no time to react as the bolt strikes him squarely in the chest.
The impact sends the bugbear reeling backward, his eyes wide with pain and surprise. The searing heat of the Fire Bolt leaves a smoldering mark on his hide, and a cry of anguish escapes his lips. The bugbear, wounded and disoriented, struggles to regain his composure as the group presses their advantage.
Attack: 15
Damage: 6 (fire)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
To post a comment, please login or register a new account.
The cave narrows to a steep fissure at the far end, and is filled with the stench of animals. Savage snarls and the sounds of rattling chains greet your ears where three wolves are chained up just inside the opening. Each wolf's chain leads to an iron rod driven into the base of a stalagmite.
A narrow opening in the east wall leads to a natural chimney that climbs 30'. At the base of the fissure is rubbish that's probably been discarded through the opening above. It shouldn't be difficult to climb if you can get there.
The problem is the wolves... chained as they are, they can't reach you (and bite) while you're still on the steps. However, if you advance into the room they can reach you - and perhaps attack you, because they seem ferocious.
Merric readies his bow: "What do you say? Shall we take them down one by one from a distance?"
Torrga observes: "Doing as you say, we should kill them easily, Merric... but I wouldn't want the wolves' yelps of pain and barks of anger to betray our presence! Do you want me to try to calm them down? I have some experience with animals..."
Lola looks at the elf wizard, uncertain: "What do you propose, Aeleth?"
A Friend Of Mine:
Aeleth analyzes the situation carefully, weighing the risks and potential outcomes. He recognizes that taking down the wolves from a distance would be a relatively easy task, but the noise they would make could indeed alert any other creatures lurking within the hideout.
On the other hand, Torrga's suggestion to attempt calming the wolves holds promise, but it also carries the risk of the wolves becoming agitated and attacking. Aeleth considers Torrga's experience with animals and believes that the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
He proposes a two-pronged approach. First, Torrga should attempt to approach the wolves cautiously and calmly, using her soothing voice and gentle demeanor to try to pacify them. During this time, Aeleth will cast the spell Minor Illusion to create the sound of a wolf mother gently lulling her cubs to sleep. The soothing melody fills the cavern, its calming effect resonating with the wolves' instincts.
Simultaneously, Aeleth casts the cantrip Prestidigitation, causing a warm, inviting glow to emanate from Torrga's form. This gentle radiance further reinforces the illusion of safety and tranquility, reducing the wolves' wariness and aggression.
If Torrga's attempt to calm the wolves proves unsuccessful, Merric will be ready to act with his bow, quickly and precisely eliminating the threat before they can harm the group.
Aeleth believes that this combination of Torrga's animal expertise, Merric's ranged accuracy, and his own magical support provides the best chance of both neutralizing the wolves and maintaining their stealth.
Torrga's Animal Handling (with advantage thanks to Aeleth's magical help): 21
Under the combined influence of the soothing sounds and calming glow, the wolves' agitated behavior subsides. Their snarls turn to whimpers, their chains rattling less frantically. Torrga, her approach slow and deliberate, extends her hand towards the nearest wolf, her voice gentle and reassuring.
The wolf, initially hesitant, tentatively sniffs Torrga's outstretched hand. As it senses no threat, it allows Torrga to gently stroke her fur, her body relaxing under her touch. The other two wolves, witnessing their companion's peaceful interaction with Torrga, gradually calm down as well.
"It's working!" the mulatto warrior nudges the elf wizard gently, with genuine admiration in her voice.
Aeleth, watching the scene unfold with satisfaction, silently withdraws the illusion and Prestidigitation. The wolves, now pacified and no longer a threat, remain in their chains, their initial ferocity replaced by a sense of tranquility.
The group has successfully neutralized the wolves without resorting to violence, maintaining their stealth and preserving their element of surprise. Aeleth's quick thinking and creative use of magic have once again proven invaluable, demonstrating his adaptability and resourcefulness of him as a wizard.
You now reach the narrow opening in the east wall leading to the natural chimney that climbs 30'...
"Shall I climb first?" suggests Lola, confident in her abilities "I'm good at climbing... and when I get to the top I can lower a rope, so you'll climb more easily"
A Friend Of Mine:
Lola's suggestion is indeed sound. Her climbing prowess and strength would make her an excellent choice for the initial ascent, and her ability to secure a rope would greatly facilitate the ascent for the rest of the group.
Aeleth agrees with Lola's assessment. "Indeed, Lola," he confirms, his voice calm and reassuring. "Your agility and strength make you the ideal candidate for this task. Please proceed with caution, and we shall await your signal at the bottom."
Lola nods in acknowledgment, her determination evident in her eyes. She approaches the narrow opening, her muscles tensing as she prepares for the climb. With a swift and practiced movement, she grips the edges of the opening and begins her ascent, her body moving with grace and precision.
Lola's Athletics: 18
The athletic adventurer manages to find one foothold after another, advancing with determination and perseverance. In a short time she has already climbed half the distance, reaching an altitude of 15'...
Lola's Athletics: 10
The final part turns out to be more critical, with fewer and more spaced out holds... but the intrepid mulatto doesn't let herself be discouraged; when her hands close on the rock ledges, her fingers grip as if they were metal grappling hooks and her powerful legs always find a way to push her higher, always accompanied by the ghostly hand created by Aeleth's magic, which illuminates her way by constantly holding the torch a bit above the level of her head, until...
...the woman, having reached 30', right at the maximum limit to which the magic hand can go, has completed the climb! Satisfied with her success, Lola sits on a ledge just before the exit of the chimney, extracts a hemp rope from her backpack and ties one end to it, letting the other end down to her adventure companions below her.
A Friend Of Mine:
(OOC: That's an impressive display of athleticism and determination from Lola!)
Lola's triumphant ascent fills the chamber with a surge of relief and admiration. Her companions, watching with bated breath, rejoice in her success, knowing that her climbing prowess has opened up a new path for them to explore.
With the rope secured, Aeleth, Torrga, and Merric carefully ascend the chimney, their movements guided by the faint glow of the torch held aloft by the ethereal hand. The hand, now at the limit of its reach, continues to cast its ethereal light, illuminating the path for the group as they emerge at the top of the chimney.
As they step onto the solid ground of the narrow passage, a sense of accomplishment washes over them. They have overcome the obstacle that lay before them, and their journey deeper into the Cragmaw hideout continues.
Lola, ever the resourceful warrior, secures the rope for future use, ensuring that they can retrace their steps if necessary. With the passage stretching before them, the group ventures forth, their resolve strengthened by their collective effort and the unwavering support of their companions.
The darkness that envelops them seems less oppressive, their footsteps lighter, their spirits higher. They have faced a challenge and emerged victorious, their bond as a team growing stronger with each trial they overcome.
As they press forward, the secrets of the Cragmaw hideout await them, their curiosity piqued and their determination unwavering. The path ahead may be shrouded in mystery, but with Lola, Torrga, Merric, and Aeleth leading the way, they are ready to face whatever lies ahead.
The natural chimney allowed you to reach a large cave. Near the point from which you climbed, two large stalagmites allow you to hide and peek.
Sacks and crates of (probably looted) provisions are piled up in the south end of the cave. A larger opening leads north down a set of natural stone steps, the roar of falling water echoing from beyond. In the middle of the cavern, the coals of a large fire smolder.
There is a bugbear sitting at the fire, with his mangy pet wolf and two goblins. The bugbear is wearing a hide armor and, while he warms his hands with his palms facing the fire, he is speaking in a loud and imperious voice (in Goblin Language - which unfortunately none of you know) to the two goblins. He has next to him a shield, a javelin and a morningstar. The two goblins, one bald and one with a broken tooth, are wearing leather armor, are kneeling on either side of the wolf, checking his fur and grooming him and showing great awe towards the bugbear. Both goblins have a scimitar, shield and shortbow next to them.
No one has noticed you yet.
"The bugbear seems to be the leader of the goblins..." whispers Merric "They haven't seen us... If we attack them by surprise and kill the leader, the others might surrender".
"They're definitely not expecting an attack" Lola assesses. "They have weapons and shields placed on the ground... It might be better for us to take advantage of the opportunity".
"What do you think, Aeleth?" Torrga asks.
A Friend Of Mine:
Aeleth carefully analyzes the situation, weighing the potential risks and rewards of a surprise attack. He recognizes that Merric and Lola's assessment is correct: the goblins are unprepared and vulnerable, and catching them off guard could provide a significant advantage.
However, Aeleth also considers the potential consequences of violence. Killing the bugbear and goblins could escalate the conflict and draw unwanted attention to their presence within the Cragmaw hideout. Additionally, if the element of surprise is lost, they could face a more challenging battle.
Aeleth proposes a more cautious approach, suggesting that they observe the goblins' behavior and gather more information before making a decision. He believes that understanding their movements, routines, and potential reinforcements could prove invaluable in formulating a strategic plan.
"Let's just hope they don't find us..." the halfling rogue mutters "or we'll have them all on us – and we'll have lost our advantage".
But Aeleth had guessed correctly that the Bugbear leader isn't even considering the possibility of having to face a raid through the inconvenient natural chimney... so he doesn't turn in that direction once. Larger than the goblins, the Bugbear continues to speak to them in an imperious tone. From the expressions of the two goblins, it is clear that they promptly obey him... but out of fear, certainly not out of respect or sympathy!
At one point, the Bugbear sneers loudly and gives a sharp order to the wolf, pointing his finger at the Bald Goblin. The Bald Goblin becomes deathly pale in the face, lets out a shrill cry of protest, but at the same time gets up very quickly and starts running around the cave, while the wolf chases him, trying to bite his butt. The Bugbear writhes on the ground with laughter, probably having a great time at the Bald Goblin's expense, while the other goblin, the one with the broken tooth, sighs in relief, as if he's glad he wasn't chosen for that 'fun'.
"I don't like that Bugbear one bit..." Lola grits her teeth.
A Friend Of Mine:
The scene unfolding before the group paints a vivid picture of the bugbear's brutish nature and the goblins' fear-based obedience. The bugbear's cruel treatment of the bald goblin further solidifies their assessment of his character, fueling Lola's animosity towards him.
Aeleth nods in agreement, his expression grim. "Indeed," he murmurs "the bugbear's cruelty and disregard for life are evident. We must be cautious and decisive in our approach".
The group continues to observe the goblins, their resolve strengthened by their shared sense of justice and their determination to bring an end to the bugbear's reign of terror. They gather vital information, studying the goblins' movements, habits, and interactions, all the while preparing for the moment when they will emerge from their hiding place and confront their adversaries.
The tension in the cavern is palpable, the air thick with anticipation and the promise of impending conflict. The group stands poised at the precipice of action, their fate intertwined with the fate of the goblins under the bugbear's oppressive rule.
The bugbear has fun for a long time with his two subordinates, occasionally changing victims: when Bald Goblin, exhausted, is caught and bitten on the butt, the brutal leader issues a new order, pointing to Broken Tooth Goblin with his finger and the wolf then begins to chase him...
And so it is now Broken Tooth Goblin running wildly, trying to escape the wolf's fangs, while the previous victim, on the ground, catches his breath.
The 'fun' continues for a while, switching victims, then Torrga whispers: "The two goblins are now so tired that they couldn't fight even if they wanted to... and the wolf, who is finishing harassing the one with the broken tooth, is far away from the bugbear... What do we do? Do we attack the bugbear now? Or wait longer?"
A Friend Of Mine:
After witnessing the bugbear's cruel and humiliating treatment of the goblins, the group is ready to act. The bugbear's blatant disregard for life and his position of authority make him the ideal target to exploit the goblins' fear and turn them against him.
Aeleth, ever the strategist, weighs the potential outcomes of attacking immediately versus waiting for a more opportune moment. He recognizes that the goblins are exhausted and demoralized, and the wolf is distracted, presenting a favorable opportunity for a surprise attack.
On the other hand, waiting for the bugbear to be isolated from his subordinates could provide an even greater advantage. If the bugbear is alone, the group could subdue him without risking harm to the goblins, potentially avoiding further bloodshed.
After careful consideration, Aeleth decides to delay their attack until the bugbear is separated from his subordinates. He believes that this approach will minimize the risk of casualties and allow them to capture the bugbear without escalating the conflict unnecessarily.
The group continues to observe the goblins, their patience tested but their resolve unwavering. They wait for the bugbear to make a move, an opportunity to strike and bring an end to his reign of terror. The tension in the cavern remains palpable, the air thick with anticipation and the promise of impending action.
As the bugbear continues to amuse himself at the expense of his exhausted subordinates, the group prepares for the moment when they will emerge from their hiding place and confront their adversaries. The fate of the goblins hangs in the balance, and the group is determined to bring justice and peace to the Cragmaw hideout.
Aeleth's patience seems to be finally rewarded! After having enjoyed himself for a long time, the bugbear lies down next to the bonfire, calling the wolf to him and gives a final order to the two goblins. These, with some relief, leave, towards the wide exit to the north, stopping to bow to the bugbear numerous times, before finally leaving sight.
Now there is only the bugbear, lying next to the bonfire, and the wolf, who comes to crouch at his feet...
A Friend Of Mine:
Aeleth's patience and strategic mind have paid off. The bugbear, having tired of his cruel amusement, dismisses the goblins, leaving him alone with his loyal wolf companion. The opportunity for a decisive strike has arrived.
Aeleth's Initiative: 24
Other Initiatives:
Torrga: 15
Merric: 13
Lola: 6
Bugbear: 20
Wolf: 9
A Friend Of Mine:
Given the bugbear's position on the ground and the element of surprise, Aeleth decides to take advantage of the favorable circumstances to deliver a decisive blow. He opts to cast the cantrip Fire Bolt, channeling arcane energy to conjure a fiery projectile that streaks towards the unsuspecting bugbear.
With his hands free thanks to the ethereal hand created by Mage Hand, Aeleth quickly forms the necessary gestures and utters the incantation for Fire Bolt. The fiery bolt erupts from his fingertips, hurtling towards the bugbear with deadly precision. The bugbear, caught off guard and still reeling from the group's sudden appearance, has no time to react as the bolt strikes him squarely in the chest.
The impact sends the bugbear reeling backward, his eyes wide with pain and surprise. The searing heat of the Fire Bolt leaves a smoldering mark on his hide, and a cry of anguish escapes his lips. The bugbear, wounded and disoriented, struggles to regain his composure as the group presses their advantage.
Attack: 15
Damage: 6 (fire)