'Kestrell, not sure who or what the Alcalde, Briston, Leetha, and Magistrate Arneu is, is still concerned by this tale.'
"Brutally ripped apart, you say? That doesn't sound good. Is it a wild animal of some kind, or a more sinister menace, do you think?"
'Thurk nods grimly at Kestrell's description of the brutal acts, before adding,'
"I might have thought savage beasts, if not for the targeting of lizardpeople and the recently increasing frequency of the attacks. It still could be some kind of monster, I guess. I'm just not sure - all I know is that my people seem to be the targets, and mostly when they're out near the streams, rivers and marshlands surrounding the town. Of course... well, as I said, I just dont know for certain."
[OOC] Kestrell can make an insight check to read the below spoiler on a DC of 10 or more.
DC 10:
'Thurk seems a simple man of honest intentions, so it is not overly to catch that he was about to say something further, but then seemed to think better of it, as though loathe to spread rumours or give voice to unfounded allegations.'
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'As your impromptu party leaves the torch light cast from Ambersilt's palisade walls behind, cresting the rise ahead and begining down the otherside, Thurk reaches into his pack to pull forth and light a hooded lantern. The illumination brightens the surrounding fields, riverlets and marshes, eliciting a chorus of *croaks* from unseen frogs, the sound accompanying the suddenly more noticable sounds of crickets and other insects. Looking Kestrell in the eye as though to take the measure of the man, Thurk finally responds as he fishes something out of a pouch,'
"Well... can't be sure, like I said. And I'm not one for unfounded speculation, but I supose that I did find this near a rock at the last murder scene. Don't know how it got there or how long it might have lain there... but I know what it is. Saw plenty of them in my younger days. It's an orcish bloodstone - amulets given by tribal shamans to young tusk-warriors after their fist kills. Then today I hear about an orc attack against the Southtower... well, it IS enough to make me wonder. That's all i'm saying right now."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'Wazzock shakes her head sadly,' "My clan was trampled down by outside forces and I always suspected it was the other orc tribes as well. The teachings of Gruumsh in my people's holy book differ from the path that these other clans walk, and while my people sought the way of strength it was not war or conquest that drove them, and I assume that they were trampled by the hordes for their stubbornness and desire to follow their own way. If other orcs have caused this grief then perhaps it is time they become familiar with the justice of clan Wazzock!"'She unhooks her warhammer from her belt and hefts it in one hand as the party continues onward.'
[ooc : Wazzock will keep an eye out for potential threats and clues.]
'Wazzock shakes her head sadly,' "My clan was trampled down by outside forces and I always suspected it was the other orc tribes as well. The teachings of Gruumsh in my people's holy book differ from the path that these other clans walk, and while my people sought the way of strength it was not war or conquest that drove them, and I assume that they were trampled by the hordes for their stubbornness and desire to follow their own way. If other orcs have caused this grief then perhaps it is time they become familiar with the justice of clan Wazzock!"'She unhooks her warhammer from her belt and hefts it in one hand as the party continues onward.'
[ooc : Wazzock will keep an eye out for potential threats and clues.]
'Thurk looks at Wazzock with a steady contemplative look before turning back to the road, lifting his lantern higher while clutching his smith's hammer in the other hand. Finally, the large forthright smith says,'
"I do not know you, warrior of clan Wazzock. And I do not know your supposdely peaceful tribe. I know of my... of the history of my people's battles against the viscious orcs of the Southern Marshes and Brokenbarrow Hills. I know of the feared Half-Skulls, who by Sergeant Briston's words were involved in the attack against the Southtower. I know what this token is... and I know that my people are dying. This is what I know and what I do not. Orc justice..."
'The large lizardman's words trail off as your party begins to descend the rise towards what sounds like a fast-flowing river. The leading edge of Thurk's lantern light soon catches the edge of the river, also illuminating the 10-15' wide dirt road that winds down towards a 10' wide stone bridge that spans the river. Still only half-way down the rise to the bridge, Thark says to you all,'
"The Drake Farmhouse lies across that river and bridge. From what Jona said, his father Exbrin laid his fish baits and traps on the other side of... What? There! A river crocodile, a large one. And it's heading under the... quick, we have no time to waste!"
'Suddenly, without another word, Thurk begins running towards the still night-shrouded bridge, his now swinging latern casting wildly gyrating shadows all about the road and your party. Turning in the direction Thurk indicated, Wazzock clearly spies the large form of the partially submerged creature.'
[OCC] Everyone except for Wazzock can make perception checks to spot the crocodile's form, succeeding on a DC of 15 or more.
The topmost green token in the pack is Thurk, from left-to-right, top-to-bottom are: Alwin, Wazzock, Mazin, Kestrell, Cinder and Altani. The large form in the river is barely discernable as the almost submerged form of one of the regions crocodiles.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Alwin just quietly follows the group listening to the mans descriptions of what has been going on. He just nodded 'this is the chance to bring honor to my family. Heroic deeds like this.' He was so caught up in his world that a lot of it passed by without him really noticing as he blended into a pack mentality following his companions.
"Bahgtru, grant us the strength of arm and will to smash all who oppose us. Luthic, giver of life, protect us from harm and keep our life giving blood flowing through our veins. Gruumsh, guide the hands of my fellows that our enemies might fall before us."
initiative : 5
[ooc : Wazzock casts bless on Altani, Alwin, and Mazin]
Altani quickly says to Alwin before they depart the inn,"Lets talk on this matter and how we can help each other later, right now it looks like we have other matters to attend to."
She briskly follows Thurk towards the bridge, listening intently to his conversation with Kestrell. As Thurk yells about the crocodile and starts to run towards the bridge, Altani steps up the pace to follow him, pulling out one of her javelin as well. She whisper under hear breath quietly to herself, to it is hard to make out what she says.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Seeing the large reptile in the water, Cinder is confused as to why they are running towards it, so she takes a moment to react to the situation before running after Thurk.
'The party rushes down the rise after the running form of Thurk. Reaching the bottom of the dirt road which leads further East, you find yourselves on a low flat area of muddy earth and wet river grass. A 10' wide bridge stretches North across the river, while running down to the waters edge to the NE, in the dim out edges of Thurk's lantern, hooded light, you all make out the upper body of a large crocodile drifting close to the where the water of the marsh river laps against the silty bank. As your eyes adjust to the darkness to fully make sense of the shadowy scene, the long, thick scaled reptilian form drags itself from the water, up onto the bank near what appears to be a prone and unmoving lizardfolk figure, sprawled in mud and long grass less than ten feet from the river's edge.
With a deep cry of alarm and anger, Thurk drops his lantern, hooded where he stands before making a dash towards the body of his fellow lizardman, pushing past Wazzock as he hefts his hammer and hurries to reach the fallen townsperson.'
[OOC] Cinder and Wazzock with their perception scores and darkvision, can read the below spoiler:
'Despite the darkness at the river's edge and the wavering shadows cast by the lantern's light, you spot the flicker of reflected light and the barest protrusion of another scaled leathery head within the river shallows, barely ten feet from where the other large reptile is pulling itself up onto the bank.'
*As both can see it and I assume either Cinder or Wazzock will raise an alarm (a free action) about the hidden (C1) crocodile, i've included it on the battle map, however if any of the other PCs wish to target it in anyway, they will need to use a bonus action (allowed by DM in this situation) or action to make a perception check DC 15 first. PCs with darkvision get advantage on the rolls, while the usual disadvantage for perception checks is negated by the (presumed) warning of either/or both Cinder and Wazzock.
Thurk is taking a dash to move towards both the prone lizardperson and C2.
The order of PCs/NPCs from left-to-right, top-to-bottom, is: Altani, Wazzock, Cinder, Thurk, Kestrell, Mazin and Alwin.
Current Initiative Order:
Kestrell 22 Marsh River Crocodiles 21 Alwin 15 Altani 9 Thurk 9 Mazin 6 Wazzock 5 Cinder 4
*We are now in combat and within initiative order. Kestrell is up 1st, then the crocs, then Altani and so on. Good luck!
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"I don't like crocodiles. They are close to the ground, so hard to see, and they have a menacing stalk when they walk on land, tail swishing side to side. In fact, they frighten me a little bit."
'Kestrell will move 3 squares right and 3 squares forward and then cast [spell]Fire Bolt[spell] on C2.'
"I don't like crocodiles. They are close to the ground, so hard to see, and they have a menacing stalk when they walk on land, tail swishing side to side. In fact, they frighten me a little bit."
'Kestrell will move 3 squares right and 3 squares forward and then cast [spell]Fire Bolt[spell] on C2.'
'Moving across and forward towards the fearsome scaled beast as it stalks in the direction of the inert form of the fallen lizardman, the sorcerer's bolt of arcane fire lances out through the night to blast the crocodile, eliciting a roar of pain and rage. While the flame scorched creature does not retreat to the watery haven behind it, Kestrell's attack does succeed in gaining its attention. As its enormous head turns in his direction and its cold gaze settle firmly upon half-elf, the large crocodillian puts on a dash of speed to to close within biting distance... though the exertion seems to preclude it from attacking immediately.
However, no sooner has the injured creature rushed forward, than another of the large beasts bursts from the river, hurtling with alarming speed from the water's edge to likewise menace the now exposed sorcerer. The nobbly grey/green hide of the creatures' glistens dully as the sparse moon light glints of their reptilian backs, while the black soulless eyes that fix upon Kestrell promise only one end.'
[OOC] Both crocodiles have used a dash action to move adjacent to Kestrell, but neither can attack this round.
*Alwin is up,then Altani, then Thurk, then Mazin and so on.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(Sorry just noticed your post that Alwin is now next. Can I do this after his turn)
As the beasts rush from the water Altani drops her javelin and with the sounds of ringing steel cuts the nights air as she draws her longsword, rearing high on her hind legs as she screams “For Mielikki!”
With that Altani rushes forward, engaging the closest beast (moving to the left of C1), swinging her sword low at the crocodile as she does so.
(Sorry just noticed your post that Alwin is now next. Can I do this after his turn)
As the beasts rush from the water Altani drops her javelin and with the sounds of ringing steel cuts the nights air as she draws her longsword, rearing high on her hind legs as she screams “For Mielikki!”
With that Altani rushes forward, engaging the closest beast (moving to the left of C1), swinging her sword low at the crocodile as she does so.
'As Altani's devout war-cry pierces the night, accompanied by the *pouding* of the centaur's hooves upon the dirt road and wooden ramp that leads up to the stone bridge, she brings her well-honed longsword sweeping down in an arc that carves a long and bloody gouge down the top of the beast's long skull and thickened hide. The large reptiles fanged maw belatedly snaps up and out at the warrior's bloody blade as it returns to attack position beside the pivoting woman's shield. The powerful blade strike seems to have diverted the crocodile's focus from the sorcerer to its Chain Mail clad antagonist.'
[OOC] Altani is diagonal and to the side of C1 (in line with Wazzock), since if the centaur had gone up alongside C1 she would be too high up on the bridge's ramp to reach the relatively low crocodile effectively.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Alwin watches as his companions rush into combat - admiring them for their courage. He begins to think back to his training and instinctively draws his sword holding it up, slightly shaking in his two hands. 'Now use your head and your allies boy.' he hears in his head as he assess the situation and moves to left of the crocodile engaged with Altani, swinging his sword.
Alwin watches as his companions rush into combat - admiring them for their courage. He begins to think back to his training and instinctively draws his sword holding it up, slightly shaking in his two hands. 'Now use your head and your allies boy.' he hears in his head as he assess the situation and moves to left of the crocodile engaged with Altani, swinging his sword.
[OOC] Corrected for disadvantage with attack.
Attack: 18 Damage: 8
Attack: 10 Damage: 5
'Moving with considered poise and purpose past Altani and up onto the bridge's upper-ramp, Alwin crouches low to swing his blade down at the crocodile. The tip of the half-elven fighter's sword connects, scraping along the tough, leathery hide of the creature, but appears to draw no blood.
With a shout to the imperiled half-elven sorcerer, the lizardman Thurk rushes forward to swing his large smith's hammer at the uninjured crocodile on the other side of the unfolding battle,'
"Get OUT of there, wizard! I'll hold it back."
'The burly smith's hammer *slams* down on top of the large reptile's skull, splitting hide and drawing blood. The blow enrages the already flame scorched creature, sending its head side-to-side in a ferocious snapping fury... before the creature half-turns away from you all, apparently intent upon returning to the river. Seeing the wounded creature's actions, Thurk calls out,'
"Let it go!"
[OOC] Thurk's attack (improvised weapon that is being employed as a warhammer with which he is proficient) vs C2: Attack: 16 Damage: Unable to parse dice roll. hit
Damage reroll do to DR schism - 5
C2 takes 5 bludgeoning damage and is looking very rough.
Mazin is up now, then Wazzock and finally Cinder to finish the round.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Mazin watches as the two beast come up from the water and engage his... friends? Maybe. Definitely allies. He needs to help distract the creatures.
He drops his javelin as he moves forward and draws his Greatsword. He moves in between the two Crocodiles and stops on the river side, opposite the rest of his party. With a low growl, he goes into a rage (bonus action). His rage looks more animalistic, like a hunting wolf or a bear defending it's territory. Looking at the two, he aims for the one that's already damaged and swings his sword down on it.
Attack: 15 Damage: 16
Edit: ((I think I hit anyways, but here's the d4 for bless 4))
Mazin watches as the two beast come up from the water and engage his... friends? Maybe. Definitely allies. He needs to help distract the creatures.
He drops his javelin as he moves forward and draws his Greatsword. He moves in between the two Crocodiles and stops on the river side, opposite the rest of his party. With a low growl, he goes into a rage (bonus action). His rage looks more animalistic, like a hunting wolf or a bear defending it's territory. Looking at the two, he aims for the one that's already damaged and swings his sword down on it.
Attack: 18 Damage: 15
Edit: ((I think I hit anyways, but here's the d4 for bless 3))
'Moving forward in determined run, the raging and roaring goliath draws and swings his enormous greatsword in one smooth continuous motion, the deadly blade painting a glinting arc in the lantern light as it descends with a *HUMMM* and connects with a *THWACK*, cleanly severing the fang-lined skull of the large creature. The other beast, which was turning from the fight, seems to grow equally enraged by its mates death, the snapping of the creature's jaws indicating a renewed willingness to fight.'
[OOC] C1 takes 15 slashing damage and is deader than a pair of boots. C2 is no longer fleeing the fight.
Wazzock is up now, then Cinder, then back to the top of the initiative order for rnd 2.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
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'Thurk nods grimly at Kestrell's description of the brutal acts, before adding,'
"I might have thought savage beasts, if not for the targeting of lizardpeople and the recently increasing frequency of the attacks. It still could be some kind of monster, I guess. I'm just not sure - all I know is that my people seem to be the targets, and mostly when they're out near the streams, rivers and marshlands surrounding the town. Of course... well, as I said, I just dont know for certain."
[OOC] Kestrell can make an insight check to read the below spoiler on a DC of 10 or more.
DC 10:
'Thurk seems a simple man of honest intentions, so it is not overly to catch that he was about to say something further, but then seemed to think better of it, as though loathe to spread rumours or give voice to unfounded allegations.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
''Kestrell, sensing that there might be more Thurk wants to say, prompts him:'
"Don't know for certain, sure. But, what do you suspect?"
Persuasion: 18
'As your impromptu party leaves the torch light cast from Ambersilt's palisade walls behind, cresting the rise ahead and begining down the otherside, Thurk reaches into his pack to pull forth and light a hooded lantern. The illumination brightens the surrounding fields, riverlets and marshes, eliciting a chorus of *croaks* from unseen frogs, the sound accompanying the suddenly more noticable sounds of crickets and other insects. Looking Kestrell in the eye as though to take the measure of the man, Thurk finally responds as he fishes something out of a pouch,'
"Well... can't be sure, like I said. And I'm not one for unfounded speculation, but I supose that I did find this near a rock at the last murder scene. Don't know how it got there or how long it might have lain there... but I know what it is. Saw plenty of them in my younger days. It's an orcish bloodstone - amulets given by tribal shamans to young tusk-warriors after their fist kills. Then today I hear about an orc attack against the Southtower... well, it IS enough to make me wonder. That's all i'm saying right now."
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"Hmmm. Orcs....."
'Kestrell turns to look for Gibbs.'
"Hey Gibblet, are you there? Do any of your secrets tell about orcs in the area?"
'Wazzock shakes her head sadly,' "My clan was trampled down by outside forces and I always suspected it was the other orc tribes as well. The teachings of Gruumsh in my people's holy book differ from the path that these other clans walk, and while my people sought the way of strength it was not war or conquest that drove them, and I assume that they were trampled by the hordes for their stubbornness and desire to follow their own way. If other orcs have caused this grief then perhaps it is time they become familiar with the justice of clan Wazzock!" 'She unhooks her warhammer from her belt and hefts it in one hand as the party continues onward.'
[ooc : Wazzock will keep an eye out for potential threats and clues.]
perception : 21
~♡~
'Thurk looks at Wazzock with a steady contemplative look before turning back to the road, lifting his lantern higher while clutching his smith's hammer in the other hand. Finally, the large forthright smith says,'
"I do not know you, warrior of clan Wazzock. And I do not know your supposdely peaceful tribe. I know of my... of the history of my people's battles against the viscious orcs of the Southern Marshes and Brokenbarrow Hills. I know of the feared Half-Skulls, who by Sergeant Briston's words were involved in the attack against the Southtower. I know what this token is... and I know that my people are dying. This is what I know and what I do not. Orc justice..."
'The large lizardman's words trail off as your party begins to descend the rise towards what sounds like a fast-flowing river. The leading edge of Thurk's lantern light soon catches the edge of the river, also illuminating the 10-15' wide dirt road that winds down towards a 10' wide stone bridge that spans the river. Still only half-way down the rise to the bridge, Thark says to you all,'
"The Drake Farmhouse lies across that river and bridge. From what Jona said, his father Exbrin laid his fish baits and traps on the other side of... What? There! A river crocodile, a large one. And it's heading under the... quick, we have no time to waste!"
'Suddenly, without another word, Thurk begins running towards the still night-shrouded bridge, his now swinging latern casting wildly gyrating shadows all about the road and your party. Turning in the direction Thurk indicated, Wazzock clearly spies the large form of the partially submerged creature.'
[OCC] Everyone except for Wazzock can make perception checks to spot the crocodile's form, succeeding on a DC of 15 or more.
The topmost green token in the pack is Thurk, from left-to-right, top-to-bottom are: Alwin, Wazzock, Mazin, Kestrell, Cinder and Altani. The large form in the river is barely discernable as the almost submerged form of one of the regions crocodiles.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Alwin just quietly follows the group listening to the mans descriptions of what has been going on. He just nodded 'this is the chance to bring honor to my family. Heroic deeds like this.' He was so caught up in his world that a lot of it passed by without him really noticing as he blended into a pack mentality following his companions.
[OOC] Initiative: 15
Campaigns:
Wildemount: The Felderwin Irregulars (2020) - Balassar Silverstone - Dragonborn Fighter (Rune Knight) Lv. 5 | Rise of TIamat - Aiwin Aralana - Wood Elf Fighter/Ranger (Arcane Archer/Gloom Stalker) Lv. 9
perception: 9
Mazin will follow after Thurk, readying a javilin as he goes.
Initiative 19
'Wazzock starts to mutter in orcish.'
[ooc : for those who understand orcish]
"Bahgtru, grant us the strength of arm and will to smash all who oppose us. Luthic, giver of life, protect us from harm and keep our life giving blood flowing through our veins. Gruumsh, guide the hands of my fellows that our enemies might fall before us."
initiative : 5
[ooc : Wazzock casts bless on Altani, Alwin, and Mazin]
~♡~
Altani quickly says to Alwin before they depart the inn, "Lets talk on this matter and how we can help each other later, right now it looks like we have other matters to attend to."
She briskly follows Thurk towards the bridge, listening intently to his conversation with Kestrell. As Thurk yells about the crocodile and starts to run towards the bridge, Altani steps up the pace to follow him, pulling out one of her javelin as well. She whisper under hear breath quietly to herself, to it is hard to make out what she says.
Perception 13
Initiative 9
Yevna Galanodel - Wood Elf | Level 8 | Druid/Circle of Spores 6 - Ranger 2 - Ravnica
Nyx - Satyr | Level 9 | Rouge/Swashbuckler 5 - Bard/Collage of Lore 4 - Lost Mine of Phandelver/Storm King's Thunder
Seeing the large reptile in the water, Cinder is confused as to why they are running towards it, so she takes a moment to react to the situation before running after Thurk.
Perception 15
Initiative 4
'The party rushes down the rise after the running form of Thurk. Reaching the bottom of the dirt road which leads further East, you find yourselves on a low flat area of muddy earth and wet river grass. A 10' wide bridge stretches North across the river, while running down to the waters edge to the NE, in the dim out edges of Thurk's lantern, hooded light, you all make out the upper body of a large crocodile drifting close to the where the water of the marsh river laps against the silty bank. As your eyes adjust to the darkness to fully make sense of the shadowy scene, the long, thick scaled reptilian form drags itself from the water, up onto the bank near what appears to be a prone and unmoving lizardfolk figure, sprawled in mud and long grass less than ten feet from the river's edge.
With a deep cry of alarm and anger, Thurk drops his lantern, hooded where he stands before making a dash towards the body of his fellow lizardman, pushing past Wazzock as he hefts his hammer and hurries to reach the fallen townsperson.'
[OOC] Cinder and Wazzock with their perception scores and darkvision, can read the below spoiler:
'Despite the darkness at the river's edge and the wavering shadows cast by the lantern's light, you spot the flicker of reflected light and the barest protrusion of another scaled leathery head within the river shallows, barely ten feet from where the other large reptile is pulling itself up onto the bank.'
*As both can see it and I assume either Cinder or Wazzock will raise an alarm (a free action) about the hidden (C1) crocodile, i've included it on the battle map, however if any of the other PCs wish to target it in anyway, they will need to use a bonus action (allowed by DM in this situation) or action to make a perception check DC 15 first. PCs with darkvision get advantage on the rolls, while the usual disadvantage for perception checks is negated by the (presumed) warning of either/or both Cinder and Wazzock.
Thurk is taking a dash to move towards both the prone lizardperson and C2.
The order of PCs/NPCs from left-to-right, top-to-bottom, is: Altani, Wazzock, Cinder, Thurk, Kestrell, Mazin and Alwin.
Current Initiative Order:
Kestrell 22
Marsh River Crocodiles 21
Alwin 15
Altani 9
Thurk 9
Mazin 6
Wazzock 5
Cinder 4
*We are now in combat and within initiative order. Kestrell is up 1st, then the crocs, then Altani and so on. Good luck!
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"I don't like crocodiles. They are close to the ground, so hard to see, and they have a menacing stalk when they walk on land, tail swishing side to side. In fact, they frighten me a little bit."
'Kestrell will move 3 squares right and 3 squares forward and then cast [spell]Fire Bolt[spell] on C2.'
[action]Attack[/spell]: 10
Damage: 1
Fire Bolt
'Moving across and forward towards the fearsome scaled beast as it stalks in the direction of the inert form of the fallen lizardman, the sorcerer's bolt of arcane fire lances out through the night to blast the crocodile, eliciting a roar of pain and rage. While the flame scorched creature does not retreat to the watery haven behind it, Kestrell's attack does succeed in gaining its attention. As its enormous head turns in his direction and its cold gaze settle firmly upon half-elf, the large crocodillian puts on a dash of speed to to close within biting distance... though the exertion seems to preclude it from attacking immediately.
However, no sooner has the injured creature rushed forward, than another of the large beasts bursts from the river, hurtling with alarming speed from the water's edge to likewise menace the now exposed sorcerer. The nobbly grey/green hide of the creatures' glistens dully as the sparse moon light glints of their reptilian backs, while the black soulless eyes that fix upon Kestrell promise only one end.'
[OOC] Both crocodiles have used a dash action to move adjacent to Kestrell, but neither can attack this round.
*Alwin is up, then Altani, then Thurk, then Mazin and so on.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
(Sorry just noticed your post that Alwin is now next. Can I do this after his turn)
As the beasts rush from the water Altani drops her javelin and with the sounds of ringing steel cuts the nights air as she draws her longsword, rearing high on her hind legs as she screams “For Mielikki!”
With that Altani rushes forward, engaging the closest beast (moving to the left of C1), swinging her sword low at the crocodile as she does so.
Attack 20
[Action]Damage[/Action] 11
Yevna Galanodel - Wood Elf | Level 8 | Druid/Circle of Spores 6 - Ranger 2 - Ravnica
Nyx - Satyr | Level 9 | Rouge/Swashbuckler 5 - Bard/Collage of Lore 4 - Lost Mine of Phandelver/Storm King's Thunder
'As Altani's devout war-cry pierces the night, accompanied by the *pouding* of the centaur's hooves upon the dirt road and wooden ramp that leads up to the stone bridge, she brings her well-honed longsword sweeping down in an arc that carves a long and bloody gouge down the top of the beast's long skull and thickened hide. The large reptiles fanged maw belatedly snaps up and out at the warrior's bloody blade as it returns to attack position beside the pivoting woman's shield. The powerful blade strike seems to have diverted the crocodile's focus from the sorcerer to its Chain Mail clad antagonist.'
[OOC] Altani is diagonal and to the side of C1 (in line with Wazzock), since if the centaur had gone up alongside C1 she would be too high up on the bridge's ramp to reach the relatively low crocodile effectively.
C1 takes 10 slashing damage.
Alwin is up.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Alwin watches as his companions rush into combat - admiring them for their courage. He begins to think back to his training and instinctively draws his sword holding it up, slightly shaking in his two hands. 'Now use your head and your allies boy.' he hears in his head as he assess the situation and moves to left of the crocodile engaged with Altani, swinging his sword.
[OOC] Corrected for disadvantage with attack.
Attack: 18 Damage: 8Attack: 10 Damage: 5
Campaigns:
Wildemount: The Felderwin Irregulars (2020) - Balassar Silverstone - Dragonborn Fighter (Rune Knight) Lv. 5 | Rise of TIamat - Aiwin Aralana - Wood Elf Fighter/Ranger (Arcane Archer/Gloom Stalker) Lv. 9
'Moving with considered poise and purpose past Altani and up onto the bridge's upper-ramp, Alwin crouches low to swing his blade down at the crocodile. The tip of the half-elven fighter's sword connects, scraping along the tough, leathery hide of the creature, but appears to draw no blood.
With a shout to the imperiled half-elven sorcerer, the lizardman Thurk rushes forward to swing his large smith's hammer at the uninjured crocodile on the other side of the unfolding battle,'
"Get OUT of there, wizard! I'll hold it back."
'The burly smith's hammer *slams* down on top of the large reptile's skull, splitting hide and drawing blood. The blow enrages the already flame scorched creature, sending its head side-to-side in a ferocious snapping fury... before the creature half-turns away from you all, apparently intent upon returning to the river. Seeing the wounded creature's actions, Thurk calls out,'
"Let it go!"
[OOC] Thurk's attack (improvised weapon that is being employed as a warhammer with which he is proficient) vs C2: Attack: 16 Damage: Unable to parse dice roll. hit
Damage reroll do to DR schism - 5
C2 takes 5 bludgeoning damage and is looking very rough.
Mazin is up now, then Wazzock and finally Cinder to finish the round.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Mazin watches as the two beast come up from the water and engage his... friends? Maybe. Definitely allies. He needs to help distract the creatures.
He drops his javelin as he moves forward and draws his Greatsword. He moves in between the two Crocodiles and stops on the river side, opposite the rest of his party. With a low growl, he goes into a rage (bonus action). His rage looks more animalistic, like a hunting wolf or a bear defending it's territory. Looking at the two, he aims for the one that's already damaged and swings his sword down on it.
Attack: 15 Damage: 16
Edit: ((I think I hit anyways, but here's the d4 for bless 4))
'Moving forward in determined run, the raging and roaring goliath draws and swings his enormous greatsword in one smooth continuous motion, the deadly blade painting a glinting arc in the lantern light as it descends with a *HUMMM* and connects with a *THWACK*, cleanly severing the fang-lined skull of the large creature. The other beast, which was turning from the fight, seems to grow equally enraged by its mates death, the snapping of the creature's jaws indicating a renewed willingness to fight.'
[OOC] C1 takes 15 slashing damage and is deader than a pair of boots. C2 is no longer fleeing the fight.
Wazzock is up now, then Cinder, then back to the top of the initiative order for rnd 2.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown