With a rough plan set, Aisha and Abraxas split from the group to fulfill their parts, Aisha moving back down the path to the base of the plateau while Abraxas walks toward the dam.
___________________________________
Aisha:
The walk to the valley floor is quiet and uneventful. As you move along the wall of the small settlement, you find your soft footsteps to be well covered by the sounds of prisoners carving into rock with their pickaxes. Once a suitable distance away, you climb the wall easily, your claws digging into the old wood like teeth into soft bread.
Peering over the wall, you see that this area of the camp is under significant watch. Three lizardfolk have their gaze fixed firmly on the prisoners while they work, while another half dozen mill between two structures in this area. You can now see into one of the larger buildings in this area, which is full of more prisoners, most of which appear to be weaker or smaller than those being worked - at least a dozen elderly and children.
You see no wildlife, large or small.
The opportunity does not present itself to approach unseen, though none of the lizardfolk have looked up your way, either. Harmony and Jove's distraction should surely come soon.
___________________________________
Abraxas:
There is no cover along the walk to the dam, but the walls of the dam itself, built in a U shape, shield you from view of anything on the other side of it. As you get closer, the sound of trickling water muffles your footsteps.
You can see that though it is quite effective at blocking the water of the river, which is shockingly wide and plentiful considering it is the first accessible water you have seen on Vandyr, the dam has been hastily constructed. It has no material like tar or pitch holding it together, such as others you have read about do, and the wood used to build it overlaps more in some sections than others.
(keeping an eye on the situation, making sure shit doesn't hit the fan and if it does, doing what you can to help harmony get out. Without being seen.)
I was thinking while Harmony is away, we might want a smaller distraction to slowly draw a little attention and make them uneasy, then a big one to make them panic. I was thinking Jove could create an alligator or huge fish with silent image that could flop up onto the land from the river, and Harmony (not to control her character) to use her minor illusion or thaumaturgy cantrips to mimic a splashing sound or snapping jaws or something similar. Then as a guard or something approaches, move the image away, and hopefully they would give chase.
Harmony was listening to Jove, nodding as he told her to throw up some darkness in case of danger. She would cast Disguise Self on herself to look like a female Salamander wearing priestly robes depicting snakelike entities before casting Tongues on herself too. "Try to make snake illusions or sounds around me and by that altar. Since they worship Zuzeca, I'll see if I can gather them all together by the altar and distract them by claiming to be a priestess and spouting nonsense about him coming to lead the charge in taking over this world and such. With all the Salamanders and lizardfolk focusing on me, the others should be able to get the prisoners free quickly." Harmony would whisper to Jove, giving him a wink. Once he got the idea, she would head down the path below the cliff that they all had been standing on, making her way to the stone altar at the edge of the settlement.
If a Salamander/Lizardfolk approaches her before getting to the altar: She will look at them and 'hiss'. "I am a priestess of Lord Zuzeca and he has sent me here to deliver important news to you all. Quickly gather at the altar for time is short." she will say to them, looking serious and intimidating.
If she makes it to the altar unnoticed: She will approach the altar and stand in front of it, using Thaumaturgy to make her voice much louder before she speaks. "Gather my fellow followers! Lord Zuzeca has sent me down as his vassal to deliver important news. Quickly now!" she would yell, being all dramatic and acting like a religious or cult leader would.
(OCC: So with either scenario, it would be Deception with advantage then?)
As Aisha manages to successfully ascend the fence, her claws being a blessing in this situation, She would keep her eyes peeled for anything that looked like 'keys' (Perc: 20) Because if she could get those... it would be much swifter, AND safer than attempting to simply lockpick every single one. However she would not move unless an obvious and large enough opening presented itself. If Harmony's distraction had, for example drawn everyone's attention. Or if some other event managed to make the lizardfolk, and if one came near, one of the more fiery serpents peel their gazes away in a significant manner, With Tsavi staying on the other side of the wall no matter what is done.
If no keys present themselves, Aisha will still wait until a better moment presents itself, as right now, she utterly lacks the means to distract them in a way that wouldn't reveal her own presence but if need be... she DID have a backup plan ...
if an opportunity does present itself, she will attempt to swipe the keyring/etc stealthily... (SoH: 18) If no good opportunity occors, she will wait a little longer before attempting naything farther, to allow the others their chance.
((OOC - So basically Aisha is trying to keep her eyes out for anyone holding keys that might be to the cages/cells, but is waiting to 'theif' until she has a quality chance. And if none presents itself even after harmony's thing, she will go to her own plan B after.
Abraxas will alternate between looking for the thinest, lowest patch of wood he can find in the dam (Investigation 27), watching the town for a mass exodus (Perception 5), and trying to look like the ground around him (Stealth 18).
OOC: Harmony, your plan is amazing. I am ALL FOR IT. In fact...
Jove uses minor illusion to create two small items. One, a chain and collar around his neck that is attached to disguised Harmony's ankle, dragging me along.
Item two, a black thorny basket, like a flower girl would have at a wedding. Instead of flower petals though, he fills it with teeth, and paves the way for Harmony, flinging them as if unfurling a red carpet, but with teeth.
In his most tortured and subservient voice, he speaks in the oldest language he knows, Primordial, "All witness the priestess! Zuzeca the Serpent Lord requires your attention! All come to his disciple's aid!"
While she speaks, Jove nods in agreement with some "oooh yes" and "hmmm!"s for emphasis on some major points.
(Hopefully this act is good enough to be considered a Help action.)
OOC: Jove also wants to stay close to her, so he can guide her out of danger when/if things go south, and he can strike.
OOC: I'll absolutely give advantage on that Deception check. Great roleplaying, all.
Harmony, Jove, and Olive:
Harmony and Jove, disguised as salamander and...teeth-flinger, follow Aisha's trail down the path to the base of the plateau, leaving Olive to watch over the proceedings. As they enter the gateway to the settlement, they find little resistance to their path toward the altar. They do not cross the path of a salamander, and the lizardfolk that they pass by bow their heads respectfully and actually seem to avoid looking toward Harmony.
Once at the altar, when Harmony shouts her call, the nearby lizardfolk obey, beginning to gather in a semicircle, attention toward the new arrival. Throughout the settlement, word spreads quickly, and a salamander can be seen barking at other lizardfolk, pointing toward Harmony. When a large crowd has arrived, this salamander speaks, though the language it speaks is unfamiliar to Jove.
For Harmony:
"Priestess! Tell us, is it time? Our sacrifices have been many, and we await the glory of Zuzeca's return."
_________________________________________
Aisha:
OOC: There actually are no shackles or cages that you can see. The prisoners are working under heavy supervision, but those sitting in the tent are not under lock and key.
After a few brief moments, something definitely seems to have grabbed the attention of the lizardfolk throughout the camp. Those here watching the prisoners look uneasy as shouts echo through the settlement, eyes turned toward the other end, where the altar stands. Shortly, a salamander arrives and shouts something toward them. The lizardfolk all leave, walking toward the direction they had been focusing, and the salamander replaces them. It stands around seventy feet from the working prisoners, and keeps an eye on them, though its attention as well is turned toward the altar.
________________________________________
Abraxas:
It does not take you long to spot it; at the bottom of the dam, a very small leak reveals a weak point in the structure. However, as you peer at this point, a lizardfolk steps around the wall of the dam. There is nowhere along the ridge of this plateau to hide; it spots you almost immediately, bringing its spiked shield to bear and pointing its spear threateningly toward you. "Wux re vi drong idol de dout tent, citar. Si jalla svent wux ghoros wux clax ir throdenilt trekis!" it shouts in an unfamiliar language.
Harmony had been surprised by what Jove decided to do, but it seemed to be helping a lot as even before getting to the altar, the lizardfolk were completely convinced of her act. Now she watched as all the lizardfolk were gathering around her and one salamander commanded the other lizardfolk to go to her. She was hoping for more Salamanders to join in, but this could work still. She listened as the Salamander asked if it is time, how they've sacrificed many awaiting the glory of Zuzeca's return. Harmony simply nods back with a smirk, moving her arms out in front of her with the palms facing up. "Yes, that is exactly why I have come. Lord Zuzeca is certainly pleased with all of your sacrifices and feels that soon the world will be ours for the taking. He will lead us to glory and victory over all those who are weak and stand in our way." she calls out loudly before using Thaumaturgy again to make her voice boom even louder as she speaks. "Chant thy Lord's name so that he may hear us all the way from above and watch me as I start the ritual to call upon him, gracing us with his presence!!" Harmony would yell dramatically, waiting for chanting to start and making sure everyone including the salamander was focusing solely on her. Then she would be moving her hips and her arms in fluid hypnotic motions, performing a ritualistic dance for those watching her for at least a minute. She would hope that Jove goes along with this, doing something to enhance/mystify this dance in the eyes of everyone watching. When she finishes with the performance, she would have chosen four specific targets to hopefully be charmed by her dance.
(OCC: I would like to use Performance for this as she is doing a type of dance called Vogue that involves fluid arm, hand, and hip motions mainly. Advantage on that then thanks to Jove's Help action and/or whatever else he decides to do to help with the dance?)
Performance: 17
If her Performance is good enough, she would use her Enthralling Performance feature on the Salamander that spoke to her and three other Salamanders that watched but if no other Salamanders or less than three other Salamanders watched her, then she would also choose up to three of the physically strongest-looking lizardfolk who watched and that are closest to the Salamander that spoke to her.
Enthralling Performance: Once per short rest, you can choose 4 creatures that watched and listened to you perform for 1 minute. Each target makes a WIS saving throw (DC 15) and is charmed if it fails for 1 hour, or until it takes any damage, you attack it, or it sees you attack or damage its allies. While charmed in this way, the target idolizes you, it speaks glowingly of you to anyone who talks to it, and it hinders anyone who opposes you, although it avoids violence unless it was already inclined to fight on your behalf. This effect ends on a target after 1 hour, if it takes any damage, if you attack it, or if it witnesses you attacking or damaging any of its allies. If a target succeeds on its saving throw, the target has no hint that you tried to charm it.
Aisha could see that the plan was finally in motion, and while her problems became lesser... the lone salamander was an issue. If it spotted her... it could alert the others.... and bring the entire area down on them... or perhaps ruin the others parts and if she failed to kill it fast enough... and so on. Aisha had thoughts swirling in her head on how she could possibly do this, especially with the elderly.. and the sickly who may be burdens on the others... Or make themselves more obvious... Aisha would sigh, as quietly as she could manage. This was goign to be very dangerous.
She quietly climbed down, petting Tsavi behind the ears, and pressing her forehead to the Panthers. Whispering Tsavi.. Aisha must ask something very risky of you. This one needs you to be Ready in case things do nyot go as planned. There is a lone enemy, and many many people we must save. So if Aisha is spotted.. She needs you to provide a distraction, make the noise you do when you are sad, and try to lead the creature away if it seems as if it is about to notice what this one is doing, and make sure to make it pursue you through and around buildings... But do NOT go this way... she says, pointing in a direction, so as to make sure Tsavi knew NOT to head towards where Harmony and the rest were, and to also avoid going near the tent/building where the infirm were. And with that, Aisha and Tsavi would both quietly climb the wall again, but both remaining held aloft just barely enough to see over it. Still watching...
Aisha would wait a little longer, to see if maybe the Salamander would give in to curiosity and go to see the 'priestess' However if a few more minutes (One round of posting) pass. and the Salamander is still there watchfully, Aisha and Tsavi would both move to where their climb over the fence wouldn't be easily seen (such as behind a building etc - same stealth as before as I haven't taken any actions that would break it I don't think?). And once done, Unless seen, Aisha would move to the nearest prisoner, especially if it was a feline one, and begin to tell him or her that a rescue was in progress, and to quietly let the others know... As the more people who were 'ready' at the right moment the smoother this would likely go.
If this went smoothly, AIsha would proceed to the tent, to do the same for the sickly/infirm there.
If nothing else has occurred negatively thus far, Aisha would keep watch on the Salamander, if he were still there, and try to usher one or two of the prisoners to the tent area, to assist the elderly/sick with their climb over the wall if it were at all possible.. (how tall is the wall?)
Once all the elderly were assisted, she would then work on gettign the rest out with them helping each other over it. And Aisha making sure they knew the panther.. if they saw her, know it was friendly, and not going to eat them.
If at any point in that chain Aisha's actions are discovered or the prisoners are spotted attempting to leave, Tsavi will do as she has been instructed and try to catch the Salamanders attention, and lead it on a merry chase, by getting within 10 feet of it, kicking dirt in it's eyes as she makes 'that noise' before fleeing around the nearest corner that ISNT near Harmony and ISNT near the sickly/infirm if they are still a factor.
((OOC Sorry for assuming so far ahead, but making sure her strategy is detailed. I also would like to emphasize, none of her actions are rushed. She is goign to wait for one more round of posting to see if anything happens that would make this all easier on her side before her backup plan kicks into action. Then, even if/when it kicks in, she will proceed with caution, not rushing anything, making sure the salamander isn't looking etc before doing ANY of her other actions.
Breakdown of Aisha's actions for easier understanding: Aisha is watching to see if the Salamander will leave so as to not miss out, but if not relatively soon, she will do her backup plan. Tsavi will be ready to attempt a distraction if it seems Aisha's deeds are about to be caught.
If Tsavi does so, she will bob and weave between buildings or whatever this place might have to do such a thing after kicking dirt in it's eyes to provoke it, and continually disengaging, but if it seems like its going to stop chasing, she will 'taunt' it again.
If nothing goes wrong, Aisha intends to grapevine her plans to get the prisoners out by seeding one, and it spreading from there. Then taking 1-2 of the non infirm to the infirm to help get them over the wall if that is at all possible.
Once the infirm are over, she will then begin working on the non-infirm by leading them out of sight, and then, over the wall. And if everyone gets out allright, Aisha will then send her signal towards Abraxus.
If you will allow it since this is a heavily preplanned and covering multiple turns 'technically', Aisha would also like to 'ready' spike growth,with the salamander at the absolute center of it should it ignore Tsavi's distraction attempt (in which case Tsavi would also cease fleeing and prepare to fight. ) But if not possible, thats fine.))
Hmm, Abraxas thinks. "Hello," he says in Common. He raises his hands, happy to look harmless, and whether his Mage Armor is active or not, he casts Blade Ward.
Jove speaks telepathically to Harmony "This is working. We are doing it. Keep it going!"
He then dances a bit more wildly than her, as if possessed or some sort of exorcism sort of thing. Harmony is the priestess and has a direct link to the god, so his otherwordly influence is much less than it is on Jove. His movements are much less coordinated and spiratic, as if letting the chaos flow through him.
He gives 1d6 bardic inspiration to Harmony, and uses prestidigitation to soil the ground under her, in rot and blood.
Salamander WIS Save: 2 Lizardfolk WIS Save: 17 Lizardfolk WIS Save: 2 Lizardfolk WIS Save: 15
At first, the lizardfolk share hesitant glances between each other, looking to the salamander as if to ask permission to heed Harmony's request; but when the salamander takes up the chant, a raucous cheer bellows from the lizardfolk throats, and they join in.
"Zuzeca! Zuzeca! Zuzeca!"
The salamander looks on at Harmony with a crazed hunger, extends a finger toward Jove and shouts with glee, though only Harmony can understand the words it speaks. Olive sees from atop the plateau that the plan seems to be working well so far.
For Harmony:
"Yes, priestess! Your final sacrifice shall honor our years of toil! Lay your creature on the altar so we may join in Zuzeca's glory!"
For Olive:
A glance toward Abraxas shows you that a lizardfolk has approached him from the dam, pointing his spear at the wizard threateningly.
________________________________________________
Aisha:
Stealth: 19
Whatever commotion is happening on the other end of camp seems to be suitably distracting the salamander here. The sound of a crowd chanting reaches your ears.
"Zuzeca! Zuzeca! Zuzeca!"
As you crest the wall, the working prisoners keep their focus on their activities. When you approach the tent with the remaining prisoners, a young woman gasps before another prisoner, understanding what is taking place, places a hand across her mouth. The sight of this man might almost stop you in your tracks: Mayor Cheval, who you had just spoken with in Rikirta yesterday morning.
Most of the prisoners shy away from you as you enter, pressing their backs to the walls of the tent. They do not seem receptive to anything you say, shaking their heads and pressing their hands to their ears as if suspecting a trick. The mayor eyes you warily and places an arm protectively across the girl next to him.
Suddenly a voice speaks to you telepathically, heavily accented but understandable.
"Hello. My name is Mro Jus Bir. I suspect you and I are here for the same reason. Stay where you are. Do not look over to me while I carve. Whatever you have done to distract them is working. This will be our only chance, so we use it, or we die. Can you fight?"
OOC: The walls are around 10-15 feet high in different areas. They may be scalable by the feline humanoids, but would be very difficult for the others, and nearly impossible for the older prisoners. Other than the walls, you know of two exits/entrances to the settlement: The path near the plateau, and the gate at the opposite end, which is not far from where you currently are.
You can respond to this telepathic message with one of your own, if you so choose.
_______________________________________________
Abraxas:
The lizardfolk begins walking toward you, but as you trace the sigil in the air to ward your body, it releases a shout of panic and charges, bringing its spear to bear.
Telepathically to Harmony, "We have their attention... now what? I feel if something amazing doesn't happen fast, we might be literally in the middle of a bad way..."
He commands Caiphon to fly up high, scouting to see if he can spot the others of his party. Depending on Harmony's response, he may or may not roll his eyes back to peer through his familiar's.
"the working prisoners keep their focus on their activities. When you approach the tent with the remaining prisoners"
A little confused, does this mean they're with me? or that they are pretending to continue working for now? etc?
Aisha and Tsavi, having both scaled the walls at this point and both quietly making their way into the tent, and spotting the Mayor, her eyes immediately shifting to suspicion about why he was here. Was he captured.. somehow.. or, was he implicit? her feline eyes thinning to slits for the briefest of moments before going to normal. Roughly at this time, the voice in her head exists. Mro Jus Bir? The name does nor ring a bell with me. And Aisha is here to rescue these poor folk. Aisha will stay put if you can make these prisoners move... If not, I will make them move myself Make sure they are aware my panther means them no harm, since they seem unwilling to listen to me.. We do not have the luxury of wasting 'too' much time. And Yes, I can fight, but as you can see, I'm not the up-close and personal type. But we need to get these people out of here. There will soon be water everywhere. And make sure the catfolk climb the wall. The fewer people we have to have heading to the nearby gate.. the less likely we are to be spotted. she responds, risking this 'Mro' being an enemy and now knowing their plan. (mental insight? trying to see if shes on the level: 18)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Abraxas considers Lightning Bolt but decides on subtlety instead. He casts Magic Missile at the third level: 19 and then retreats his entire movement. He keeps the weak spot of the dam in mind and hopes to see a long line of refugees escaping the town.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Harmony could sense that she managed to charm the Salamander as she had hoped, glad. But then she heard the Salamander and Jove in her head, thinking. 'Keep playing along, I got an idea now that I've charmed that Salamander. Play dead and make super loud snake hissing happen.' she would telepathically say back to him before looking to the Salamandar and nodding. So she would 'take off' the 'chain' around her ankle attached to Jove's 'collar', dragging him by the arm as they go on top of the altar. Harmony has her back to everyone and Jove in front of her so everyone else won't be able to see what's going on as clearly, stealing Jove's dagger before dramatically shoving him to the ground on his back. "Lord Zuzeca, hear my call! I offer one last sacrifice in your name! Now, appear before us in all your glory!!" she calls out, holding the dagger with both of her hands over her head before quickly bringing it down to plunge into Jove's heart. Of course she stops just short, using Prestidigitation to make it sound like she stabbed him deep in the heart and then make it appear from everyone else's view that she did kill him due to how a lot of blood just comes pouring out of Jove and onto the altar, bubbling as well.
(Advantage on Deception due to blocking everyone's view just enough, using the blood and stabbing sound to deceive them into believing she did kill Jove along with anything else Jove does to help)
With a rough plan set, Aisha and Abraxas split from the group to fulfill their parts, Aisha moving back down the path to the base of the plateau while Abraxas walks toward the dam.
___________________________________
Aisha:
The walk to the valley floor is quiet and uneventful. As you move along the wall of the small settlement, you find your soft footsteps to be well covered by the sounds of prisoners carving into rock with their pickaxes. Once a suitable distance away, you climb the wall easily, your claws digging into the old wood like teeth into soft bread.
Peering over the wall, you see that this area of the camp is under significant watch. Three lizardfolk have their gaze fixed firmly on the prisoners while they work, while another half dozen mill between two structures in this area. You can now see into one of the larger buildings in this area, which is full of more prisoners, most of which appear to be weaker or smaller than those being worked - at least a dozen elderly and children.
You see no wildlife, large or small.
The opportunity does not present itself to approach unseen, though none of the lizardfolk have looked up your way, either. Harmony and Jove's distraction should surely come soon.
___________________________________
Abraxas:
There is no cover along the walk to the dam, but the walls of the dam itself, built in a U shape, shield you from view of anything on the other side of it. As you get closer, the sound of trickling water muffles your footsteps.
You can see that though it is quite effective at blocking the water of the river, which is shockingly wide and plentiful considering it is the first accessible water you have seen on Vandyr, the dam has been hastily constructed. It has no material like tar or pitch holding it together, such as others you have read about do, and the wood used to build it overlaps more in some sections than others.
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OOC: Sorry for being AFK for a bit. Could someone fill me in on what Olive is supposed to be doing in this plan?
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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(keeping an eye on the situation, making sure shit doesn't hit the fan and if it does, doing what you can to help harmony get out. Without being seen.)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Barty, what animals, if any, would reside here?
I was thinking while Harmony is away, we might want a smaller distraction to slowly draw a little attention and make them uneasy, then a big one to make them panic. I was thinking Jove could create an alligator or huge fish with silent image that could flop up onto the land from the river, and Harmony (not to control her character) to use her minor illusion or thaumaturgy cantrips to mimic a splashing sound or snapping jaws or something similar. Then as a guard or something approaches, move the image away, and hopefully they would give chase.
--- --- We want Grung! --- ---
~https://www.dmsguild.com/browse.php?author=DragonbornDoug ~
Harmony was listening to Jove, nodding as he told her to throw up some darkness in case of danger. She would cast Disguise Self on herself to look like a female Salamander wearing priestly robes depicting snakelike entities before casting Tongues on herself too. "Try to make snake illusions or sounds around me and by that altar. Since they worship Zuzeca, I'll see if I can gather them all together by the altar and distract them by claiming to be a priestess and spouting nonsense about him coming to lead the charge in taking over this world and such. With all the Salamanders and lizardfolk focusing on me, the others should be able to get the prisoners free quickly." Harmony would whisper to Jove, giving him a wink. Once he got the idea, she would head down the path below the cliff that they all had been standing on, making her way to the stone altar at the edge of the settlement.
If a Salamander/Lizardfolk approaches her before getting to the altar: She will look at them and 'hiss'. "I am a priestess of Lord Zuzeca and he has sent me here to deliver important news to you all. Quickly gather at the altar for time is short." she will say to them, looking serious and intimidating.
If she makes it to the altar unnoticed: She will approach the altar and stand in front of it, using Thaumaturgy to make her voice much louder before she speaks. "Gather my fellow followers! Lord Zuzeca has sent me down as his vassal to deliver important news. Quickly now!" she would yell, being all dramatic and acting like a religious or cult leader would.
(OCC: So with either scenario, it would be Deception with advantage then?)
25
From her vantage point, Olive observes what's going on and stays at the ready.
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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As Aisha manages to successfully ascend the fence, her claws being a blessing in this situation, She would keep her eyes peeled for anything that looked like 'keys' (Perc: 20) Because if she could get those... it would be much swifter, AND safer than attempting to simply lockpick every single one. However she would not move unless an obvious and large enough opening presented itself. If Harmony's distraction had, for example drawn everyone's attention. Or if some other event managed to make the lizardfolk, and if one came near, one of the more fiery serpents peel their gazes away in a significant manner, With Tsavi staying on the other side of the wall no matter what is done.
If no keys present themselves, Aisha will still wait until a better moment presents itself, as right now, she utterly lacks the means to distract them in a way that wouldn't reveal her own presence but if need be... she DID have a backup plan ...
if an opportunity does present itself, she will attempt to swipe the keyring/etc stealthily... (SoH: 18) If no good opportunity occors, she will wait a little longer before attempting naything farther, to allow the others their chance.
((OOC - So basically Aisha is trying to keep her eyes out for anyone holding keys that might be to the cages/cells, but is waiting to 'theif' until she has a quality chance. And if none presents itself even after harmony's thing, she will go to her own plan B after.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Abraxas will alternate between looking for the thinest, lowest patch of wood he can find in the dam (Investigation 27), watching the town for a mass exodus (Perception 5), and trying to look like the ground around him (Stealth 18).
Death on the Water and Baldur's Gate Bodyguard
OOC: Harmony, your plan is amazing. I am ALL FOR IT. In fact...
Jove uses minor illusion to create two small items. One, a chain and collar around his neck that is attached to disguised Harmony's ankle, dragging me along.
Item two, a black thorny basket, like a flower girl would have at a wedding. Instead of flower petals though, he fills it with teeth, and paves the way for Harmony, flinging them as if unfurling a red carpet, but with teeth.
In his most tortured and subservient voice, he speaks in the oldest language he knows, Primordial, "All witness the priestess! Zuzeca the Serpent Lord requires your attention! All come to his disciple's aid!"
While she speaks, Jove nods in agreement with some "oooh yes" and "hmmm!"s for emphasis on some major points.
(Hopefully this act is good enough to be considered a Help action.)
OOC: Jove also wants to stay close to her, so he can guide her out of danger when/if things go south, and he can strike.
--- --- We want Grung! --- ---
~https://www.dmsguild.com/browse.php?author=DragonbornDoug ~
OOC: I'll absolutely give advantage on that Deception check. Great roleplaying, all.
Harmony, Jove, and Olive:
Harmony and Jove, disguised as salamander and...teeth-flinger, follow Aisha's trail down the path to the base of the plateau, leaving Olive to watch over the proceedings. As they enter the gateway to the settlement, they find little resistance to their path toward the altar. They do not cross the path of a salamander, and the lizardfolk that they pass by bow their heads respectfully and actually seem to avoid looking toward Harmony.
Once at the altar, when Harmony shouts her call, the nearby lizardfolk obey, beginning to gather in a semicircle, attention toward the new arrival. Throughout the settlement, word spreads quickly, and a salamander can be seen barking at other lizardfolk, pointing toward Harmony. When a large crowd has arrived, this salamander speaks, though the language it speaks is unfamiliar to Jove.
For Harmony:
"Priestess! Tell us, is it time? Our sacrifices have been many, and we await the glory of Zuzeca's return."
_________________________________________
Aisha:
OOC: There actually are no shackles or cages that you can see. The prisoners are working under heavy supervision, but those sitting in the tent are not under lock and key.
After a few brief moments, something definitely seems to have grabbed the attention of the lizardfolk throughout the camp. Those here watching the prisoners look uneasy as shouts echo through the settlement, eyes turned toward the other end, where the altar stands. Shortly, a salamander arrives and shouts something toward them. The lizardfolk all leave, walking toward the direction they had been focusing, and the salamander replaces them. It stands around seventy feet from the working prisoners, and keeps an eye on them, though its attention as well is turned toward the altar.
________________________________________
Abraxas:
It does not take you long to spot it; at the bottom of the dam, a very small leak reveals a weak point in the structure. However, as you peer at this point, a lizardfolk steps around the wall of the dam. There is nowhere along the ridge of this plateau to hide; it spots you almost immediately, bringing its spiked shield to bear and pointing its spear threateningly toward you. "Wux re vi drong idol de dout tent, citar. Si jalla svent wux ghoros wux clax ir throdenilt trekis!" it shouts in an unfamiliar language.
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Harmony had been surprised by what Jove decided to do, but it seemed to be helping a lot as even before getting to the altar, the lizardfolk were completely convinced of her act. Now she watched as all the lizardfolk were gathering around her and one salamander commanded the other lizardfolk to go to her. She was hoping for more Salamanders to join in, but this could work still. She listened as the Salamander asked if it is time, how they've sacrificed many awaiting the glory of Zuzeca's return. Harmony simply nods back with a smirk, moving her arms out in front of her with the palms facing up. "Yes, that is exactly why I have come. Lord Zuzeca is certainly pleased with all of your sacrifices and feels that soon the world will be ours for the taking. He will lead us to glory and victory over all those who are weak and stand in our way." she calls out loudly before using Thaumaturgy again to make her voice boom even louder as she speaks. "Chant thy Lord's name so that he may hear us all the way from above and watch me as I start the ritual to call upon him, gracing us with his presence!!" Harmony would yell dramatically, waiting for chanting to start and making sure everyone including the salamander was focusing solely on her. Then she would be moving her hips and her arms in fluid hypnotic motions, performing a ritualistic dance for those watching her for at least a minute. She would hope that Jove goes along with this, doing something to enhance/mystify this dance in the eyes of everyone watching. When she finishes with the performance, she would have chosen four specific targets to hopefully be charmed by her dance.
(OCC: I would like to use Performance for this as she is doing a type of dance called Vogue that involves fluid arm, hand, and hip motions mainly. Advantage on that then thanks to Jove's Help action and/or whatever else he decides to do to help with the dance?)
Performance: 17
If her Performance is good enough, she would use her Enthralling Performance feature on the Salamander that spoke to her and three other Salamanders that watched but if no other Salamanders or less than three other Salamanders watched her, then she would also choose up to three of the physically strongest-looking lizardfolk who watched and that are closest to the Salamander that spoke to her.
Enthralling Performance: Once per short rest, you can choose 4 creatures that watched and listened to you perform for 1 minute. Each target makes a WIS saving throw (DC 15) and is charmed if it fails for 1 hour, or until it takes any damage, you attack it, or it sees you attack or damage its allies. While charmed in this way, the target idolizes you, it speaks glowingly of you to anyone who talks to it, and it hinders anyone who opposes you, although it avoids violence unless it was already inclined to fight on your behalf. This effect ends on a target after 1 hour, if it takes any damage, if you attack it, or if it witnesses you attacking or damaging any of its allies. If a target succeeds on its saving throw, the target has no hint that you tried to charm it.
(OOC - whoo boy, what to do.. what to do...)
Aisha could see that the plan was finally in motion, and while her problems became lesser... the lone salamander was an issue. If it spotted her... it could alert the others.... and bring the entire area down on them... or perhaps ruin the others parts and if she failed to kill it fast enough... and so on. Aisha had thoughts swirling in her head on how she could possibly do this, especially with the elderly.. and the sickly who may be burdens on the others... Or make themselves more obvious... Aisha would sigh, as quietly as she could manage. This was goign to be very dangerous.
She quietly climbed down, petting Tsavi behind the ears, and pressing her forehead to the Panthers. Whispering Tsavi.. Aisha must ask something very risky of you. This one needs you to be Ready in case things do nyot go as planned. There is a lone enemy, and many many people we must save. So if Aisha is spotted.. She needs you to provide a distraction, make the noise you do when you are sad, and try to lead the creature away if it seems as if it is about to notice what this one is doing, and make sure to make it pursue you through and around buildings... But do NOT go this way... she says, pointing in a direction, so as to make sure Tsavi knew NOT to head towards where Harmony and the rest were, and to also avoid going near the tent/building where the infirm were. And with that, Aisha and Tsavi would both quietly climb the wall again, but both remaining held aloft just barely enough to see over it. Still watching...
Aisha would wait a little longer, to see if maybe the Salamander would give in to curiosity and go to see the 'priestess' However if a few more minutes (One round of posting) pass. and the Salamander is still there watchfully, Aisha and Tsavi would both move to where their climb over the fence wouldn't be easily seen (such as behind a building etc - same stealth as before as I haven't taken any actions that would break it I don't think?). And once done, Unless seen, Aisha would move to the nearest prisoner, especially if it was a feline one, and begin to tell him or her that a rescue was in progress, and to quietly let the others know... As the more people who were 'ready' at the right moment the smoother this would likely go.
If this went smoothly, AIsha would proceed to the tent, to do the same for the sickly/infirm there.
If nothing else has occurred negatively thus far, Aisha would keep watch on the Salamander, if he were still there, and try to usher one or two of the prisoners to the tent area, to assist the elderly/sick with their climb over the wall if it were at all possible.. (how tall is the wall?)
Once all the elderly were assisted, she would then work on gettign the rest out with them helping each other over it. And Aisha making sure they knew the panther.. if they saw her, know it was friendly, and not going to eat them.
If at any point in that chain Aisha's actions are discovered or the prisoners are spotted attempting to leave, Tsavi will do as she has been instructed and try to catch the Salamanders attention, and lead it on a merry chase, by getting within 10 feet of it, kicking dirt in it's eyes as she makes 'that noise' before fleeing around the nearest corner that ISNT near Harmony and ISNT near the sickly/infirm if they are still a factor.
((OOC Sorry for assuming so far ahead, but making sure her strategy is detailed. I also would like to emphasize, none of her actions are rushed. She is goign to wait for one more round of posting to see if anything happens that would make this all easier on her side before her backup plan kicks into action. Then, even if/when it kicks in, she will proceed with caution, not rushing anything, making sure the salamander isn't looking etc before doing ANY of her other actions.
Breakdown of Aisha's actions for easier understanding: Aisha is watching to see if the Salamander will leave so as to not miss out, but if not relatively soon, she will do her backup plan. Tsavi will be ready to attempt a distraction if it seems Aisha's deeds are about to be caught.
If Tsavi does so, she will bob and weave between buildings or whatever this place might have to do such a thing after kicking dirt in it's eyes to provoke it, and continually disengaging, but if it seems like its going to stop chasing, she will 'taunt' it again.
If nothing goes wrong, Aisha intends to grapevine her plans to get the prisoners out by seeding one, and it spreading from there. Then taking 1-2 of the non infirm to the infirm to help get them over the wall if that is at all possible.
Once the infirm are over, she will then begin working on the non-infirm by leading them out of sight, and then, over the wall. And if everyone gets out allright, Aisha will then send her signal towards Abraxus.
If you will allow it since this is a heavily preplanned and covering multiple turns 'technically', Aisha would also like to 'ready' spike growth,with the salamander at the absolute center of it should it ignore Tsavi's distraction attempt (in which case Tsavi would also cease fleeing and prepare to fight. ) But if not possible, thats fine.))
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Hmm, Abraxas thinks. "Hello," he says in Common. He raises his hands, happy to look harmless, and whether his Mage Armor is active or not, he casts Blade Ward.
Death on the Water and Baldur's Gate Bodyguard
Jove speaks telepathically to Harmony "This is working. We are doing it. Keep it going!"
He then dances a bit more wildly than her, as if possessed or some sort of exorcism sort of thing. Harmony is the priestess and has a direct link to the god, so his otherwordly influence is much less than it is on Jove. His movements are much less coordinated and spiratic, as if letting the chaos flow through him.
He gives 1d6 bardic inspiration to Harmony, and uses prestidigitation to soil the ground under her, in rot and blood.
--- --- We want Grung! --- ---
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Harmony, Jove, and Olive:
Salamander WIS Save: 2
Lizardfolk WIS Save: 17
Lizardfolk WIS Save: 2
Lizardfolk WIS Save: 15
At first, the lizardfolk share hesitant glances between each other, looking to the salamander as if to ask permission to heed Harmony's request; but when the salamander takes up the chant, a raucous cheer bellows from the lizardfolk throats, and they join in.
"Zuzeca! Zuzeca! Zuzeca!"
The salamander looks on at Harmony with a crazed hunger, extends a finger toward Jove and shouts with glee, though only Harmony can understand the words it speaks. Olive sees from atop the plateau that the plan seems to be working well so far.
For Harmony:
"Yes, priestess! Your final sacrifice shall honor our years of toil! Lay your creature on the altar so we may join in Zuzeca's glory!"
For Olive:
A glance toward Abraxas shows you that a lizardfolk has approached him from the dam, pointing his spear at the wizard threateningly.
________________________________________________
Aisha:
Stealth: 19
Whatever commotion is happening on the other end of camp seems to be suitably distracting the salamander here. The sound of a crowd chanting reaches your ears.
"Zuzeca! Zuzeca! Zuzeca!"
As you crest the wall, the working prisoners keep their focus on their activities. When you approach the tent with the remaining prisoners, a young woman gasps before another prisoner, understanding what is taking place, places a hand across her mouth. The sight of this man might almost stop you in your tracks: Mayor Cheval, who you had just spoken with in Rikirta yesterday morning.
Most of the prisoners shy away from you as you enter, pressing their backs to the walls of the tent. They do not seem receptive to anything you say, shaking their heads and pressing their hands to their ears as if suspecting a trick. The mayor eyes you warily and places an arm protectively across the girl next to him.
Suddenly a voice speaks to you telepathically, heavily accented but understandable.
"Hello. My name is Mro Jus Bir. I suspect you and I are here for the same reason. Stay where you are. Do not look over to me while I carve. Whatever you have done to distract them is working. This will be our only chance, so we use it, or we die. Can you fight?"
OOC: The walls are around 10-15 feet high in different areas. They may be scalable by the feline humanoids, but would be very difficult for the others, and nearly impossible for the older prisoners. Other than the walls, you know of two exits/entrances to the settlement: The path near the plateau, and the gate at the opposite end, which is not far from where you currently are.
You can respond to this telepathic message with one of your own, if you so choose.
_______________________________________________
Abraxas:
The lizardfolk begins walking toward you, but as you trace the sigil in the air to ward your body, it releases a shout of panic and charges, bringing its spear to bear.
Initiative:
Abraxas: 17
Lizardfolk: 17
Abraxas Tiebreaker: 9
Lizardfolk Tiebreaker: 2
Round 1 Order:
Abraxas <=====
Lizardfolk
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Telepathically to Harmony, "We have their attention... now what? I feel if something amazing doesn't happen fast, we might be literally in the middle of a bad way..."
He commands Caiphon to fly up high, scouting to see if he can spot the others of his party. Depending on Harmony's response, he may or may not roll his eyes back to peer through his familiar's.
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"the working prisoners keep their focus on their activities. When you approach the tent with the remaining prisoners"
A little confused, does this mean they're with me? or that they are pretending to continue working for now? etc?
Aisha and Tsavi, having both scaled the walls at this point and both quietly making their way into the tent, and spotting the Mayor, her eyes immediately shifting to suspicion about why he was here. Was he captured.. somehow.. or, was he implicit? her feline eyes thinning to slits for the briefest of moments before going to normal. Roughly at this time, the voice in her head exists. Mro Jus Bir? The name does nor ring a bell with me. And Aisha is here to rescue these poor folk. Aisha will stay put if you can make these prisoners move... If not, I will make them move myself Make sure they are aware my panther means them no harm, since they seem unwilling to listen to me.. We do not have the luxury of wasting 'too' much time. And Yes, I can fight, but as you can see, I'm not the up-close and personal type. But we need to get these people out of here. There will soon be water everywhere. And make sure the catfolk climb the wall. The fewer people we have to have heading to the nearby gate.. the less likely we are to be spotted. she responds, risking this 'Mro' being an enemy and now knowing their plan. (mental insight? trying to see if shes on the level: 18)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Abraxas considers Lightning Bolt but decides on subtlety instead. He casts Magic Missile at the third level: 19 and then retreats his entire movement. He keeps the weak spot of the dam in mind and hopes to see a long line of refugees escaping the town.
Death on the Water and Baldur's Gate Bodyguard
Harmony could sense that she managed to charm the Salamander as she had hoped, glad. But then she heard the Salamander and Jove in her head, thinking. 'Keep playing along, I got an idea now that I've charmed that Salamander. Play dead and make super loud snake hissing happen.' she would telepathically say back to him before looking to the Salamandar and nodding. So she would 'take off' the 'chain' around her ankle attached to Jove's 'collar', dragging him by the arm as they go on top of the altar. Harmony has her back to everyone and Jove in front of her so everyone else won't be able to see what's going on as clearly, stealing Jove's dagger before dramatically shoving him to the ground on his back. "Lord Zuzeca, hear my call! I offer one last sacrifice in your name! Now, appear before us in all your glory!!" she calls out, holding the dagger with both of her hands over her head before quickly bringing it down to plunge into Jove's heart. Of course she stops just short, using Prestidigitation to make it sound like she stabbed him deep in the heart and then make it appear from everyone else's view that she did kill him due to how a lot of blood just comes pouring out of Jove and onto the altar, bubbling as well.
(Advantage on Deception due to blocking everyone's view just enough, using the blood and stabbing sound to deceive them into believing she did kill Jove along with anything else Jove does to help)
Deception: 23
Bardic Inspiration (just in case): 1
OOC: Aisha - The working prisoners seem cowed. They've definitely noticed you, but are doing their best to pretend not to have noticed.
Jove - Is Jove going along with all of Harmony's post?
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