The sound of unintelligible gibbering resounds in the heads of the party; for Faila it is overwhelming (see condition below):
Faila- can't take reactions until the start of her next turn and rolls a d8 to determine what it does during its turn. On a 1 to 4, she does nothing. On a 5 or 6, she takes no action or bonus action and uses all her movement to move in a randomly determined direction. On a 7 or 8, she makes a melee attack against a randomly determined creature within her reach or does nothing if she can't make such an attack.
((All - At the end of your respective turns, please make wisdom saving throws (DC 10) to resist Sedgewick's gibbering. Should anyone fail they are effected by the condition above. This condition only lasts one turn before you come to your senses (no roll wisdom save is required at the end of a turn during which you have succumbed to the gibbering).))
Toska limps after the party, still exhausted from her ordeal but eager to join the fighting.
Within the observatory itself, Theodore Sedgewick turns towards the encroaching Tree Knights, his attention averted from the wounded Sagacitas. Three enormous tentacles flail around wildly, lashing out at any that would enter their reach; the Tree Knight (#2) to the South is currently being restrained by tentacle (#3). "WHAT IN THE HELLS ARE YOU DOING IN MY HOUSE?!" Theodore screams at the Tree Knight Captain.
Battlemap:
Initiative Order:
Tree Knight Captain - 21 - Green Tree Symbol + Tree Knights (x4) - Small Green Shield Symbols (#2 currently restrained)
Boyd - 19 - Tan Dagger Symbol
Theodore Sedgewick - 18 - Black Alien Symbol
Ermasnietsz - 17 - Orange Infinity Symbol
Faila - 17 - Pink Staff Symbol
Meresaa - 12 - Dark Blue Gun Symbol
Nikita - 10 - Purple Wand Symbol +Thumbtack - Small Purple Shield Symbol
Enormous Tentacles (3/3) - 7 - Black Small Shield Symbols (1x currently restraining a Tree Knight)
Toska - 5 - Green Battleaxe Symbol (Exhausted)
Sagacitas 'Octodog' - Unconscious - Light Blue Dog Symbol
Nature Checks:
Meresaa:
The aberration that was Theodore Sedgewick standing before you has clearly been altered by overfeeding on the energies harvested by the Sagacitas. Five large tentacles extend from the creature, they look like larger versions of the Sagactias' but warped and mutated. Likewise, several small mouths cover Sedgewick's body as though his very being has been spliced with the tiny creatures.
Theodore mind seems so shattered that it is unlikely that any mind-altering conditions would affect him ((condition immunities to charmed and frightened)). Aside from the threat of the tentacles you pay particular attention to the drool dripping from his tongue; should this make contact with a person's eyes it might well lead to temporary blindness.
From previous studies, you recall that the Sagacitas seemed to have a natural resistance to being poisoned, you wonder whether this might extend to Theodore ((condition immunity to poisoned.
Overall, you get the sense that little can be done for the man. This transformation has likely occurred over many months, if not years, and multiple, prolonged exposure to the Sagacitas' energies. Even if one was able to return him to his former self (and size) his mind is likely so broken that he would not be able to function normally.
Nikita:
The aberration that was Theodore Sedgewick standing before you has clearly been altered by overfeeding on the energies harvested by the Sagacitas. Five large tentacles extend from the creature, they look like larger versions of the Sagactias' but warped and mutated. Likewise, several small mouths cover Sedgewick's body as though his very being has been spliced with the tiny creatures.
Theodore mind seems so shattered that it is unlikely that any mind-altering conditions would affect him ((condition immunities to charmed and frightened)).
Overall, you get the sense that little can be done for the man. This transformation has likely occurred over many months, if not years, and multiple, prolonged exposure to the Sagacitas' energies. Even if one was able to return him to his former self (and size) his mind is likely so broken that he would not be able to function normally.
Silently signalling, the Tree Knight Captain relays a series of orders to the other Tree Knights; they seem attentive and ready for action. Without a moment's pause, the Captain strides towards Sedgewick's position. Holding out his wooden hand, several small roots sprout near the aberration's feet, wrapping themselves around Sedgewick's boots.
Root Grasp: Attack: 23(Critical)
Aggressively attempting to free his legs, Sedgewick remains rooted to the spot, becoming grappled. The Tree Knight Captain proceeds to raise his hand before bringing it down with a smack.
Root Slam: Consitution Saving Throw (DC 12)
Theodore's Consitution Saving Throw: 14(Resisted)
Mimicking his actions, the roots raise Sedgewick a little off the floor. Unfortunately, Sedgewick manages to prevent the roots from lifting him much higher. As the roots bring him down he is no more than an inch or two off the ground and does not sustain any damage.
Tree Knights
#1 - Engages Sedgewick, standing to the immediate north of its Captain. Bringing its thorny sword down it strikes at the aberration;
Thornsword: Attack: 6
However, the sword only ineffectually bounces off of Sedgewick's thick hide.
#2 - Attempts to break free from the tentacle;
Opposed Grapple Check (Str): 3 ((not the best roll))
Tentacle Opposed Grapple Check (Str): 6!
Unfortunately, the Tree Knight is unable to break the tentacle's grasp and remains restrained.
#3 - Climbs in through the window and makes to strike Theodore;
Thornsword: Attack: 18, Damage: 5(piercing)
The sword bites into Sedgewick's side, causing him to howl in pain.
#4 - Follows Tree Knight #3 through the window and toward Sedgewick. Proceeds to slice at him with its thorny sword;
Thornsword: Attack: 21, Damage: 6 (piercing)
The Tree Knight's attack successfully strikes Sedgewick, cutting into his pallid skin.
Boyd - Combat has commenced and the Tree Knights have taken up position around the creature that was once Theodore Sedgewick. The aberration bleeds from a couple of minor cuts he has sustained but otherwise seems fresh. It falls upon you to see if you can end this abomination, it is your turn.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"Cor! Look at that, the wood elves are already in and swingin'!"
Boyd clears the broken window of glass with his blade and hops through. Once in, he moves clear of the opening and takes place in the northwest corner (directly north of wood elf #2). This is the first time he's used his new blade of returning. He looks at it skeptically, then whips it through the air at Ted.
Boyd finds that there is no need for scepticism as he throws the blade through the air. Sure enough, it flies true, knicking Sedgewick in his right shoulder before returning. Though, at first, it looks like a relatively small cut, thick dark blood streams from it; quite obviously causing discomfort. Letting out a bellow, Theodore whips around to face Boyd. "Who in the blazes are you?!" he screams.
Theodore Sedgewick's Turn
Spotting his new target, Sedgewick's giant tentacles lash out toward Boyd.
The tentacle crashes into Boyd, knocking the wind out of him. It attempts to wrap itself around his body much like a snake would its prey.
Boyd - Please make a Strength Saving Throw (DC 15) or become restrained.
Howling with delight at his successful attack, Theodore turns his attention to the Tree Knight Captain standing in front of him. Another of his tentacles attempts to strike at the Captain.
Tentacle Strike: Attack: 18, Damage: 7bludgeoning damage ((Oof, high-rolled for Boyd and low-rolled for the NPC))
Tree Knight Captain Strength Saving Throw (DC 15): 4
The mighty tentacle smacks into the Tree Knight Captain, causing splinters and bark to fly everywhere. Similarly to the other Tree Knight (#2), the Captain becomes restrained as the tentacle wraps around his ancient armour.
Ermasnietsz - Directly in front of you, Boyd has made a daring move into the observatory. Seconds later you hear a massive smashing sound as one of Sedgewick's tentacles crashes through the desk Boyd was standing on, severely hurting him in the process. However, Sedgewick has sustained damage himself, a combination of the Tree Knights' and Boyd's attacks are causing him to bleed profusely. It is your turn to join the fracas, what do you do?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ermasnietsz (The Timekeeper)
Ermasnietsz stares at the aberration with an expression of disinterested observer. But, she's certainly taken aback by the hair-brained movement of her rogue comrade as her hand automatically reaches for the off-hand dagger. Her ultimate aim is to prevent Boyd from committing a suicidal act based on hormonal rush. A sharp noise and the already wielding dagger is on the way to slash at the creepy tentacle like appendage that's been keeping Boyd hostage.
"Mr Boyd! It's high time you choose an opponent that you can avoid... Toska!"
Faila shrieks like a deranged bird, a strangled cry, her eyes bloodshot and her teeth sharpening and lengthening into deadly points in her widening mouth. The gibbering seems to have drawn out the abomination in the wild child, or at least her terror has gotten her hijacked. She writhes, as if trying to escape, but, feeling cornered, now by a tall, slender blue woman with alien eyes at her side, lunges at the suddenly threatening figure with her alarmingly growing teeth.
Meresaa turns to regard Faila, eyes lingering on what-was-Sedgewick for a moment longer. She scowls disapprovingly at the young woman.
"That won't do at all, now will it?" she intones as she swings the small sack she's been palming to the back of her hand, drawstring clutched between her first two fingers. She grabs Faila's shoulder and attempts to redirect her feral focus toward the bulbous form wreaking havoc in the observatory-turned-gazebo.
Squeezing between the confused druid and the hypercritical sorcerer, she tries to find a better vantage with an unobstructed view of the battlefield (just north of Erma). She mutters something in a shrill, punctuated dialect and slings the pouch into the center of the room, exploding into a fine mist on impact with the floor. As the spray settles, a large swath of the area begins to glow with an eerie blue light.
Faerie fire DEX save 15 positioned to hit Tedgewick and tentacles 1 & 2
Acting quickly, Ermasnietsz attempts to strike the tentacle restraining Boyd. Her dagger lashes out wickedly but, unfortunately, the tentacle is too quick and manages to avoid her attack.
Faila's Turn
Faila lets out a wild shriek and lunges at Meresaa, her feral teeth snapping down. Fortunately, her bite finds only air as Meresaa deftly evades the attack.
Meresaa's Turn
Slinging her pouch towards the centre of the observatory, it explodes into mist, illuminating the area.
Sedgewick Dexterity Saving Throw: 23
Tentacle #1 Dexterity Saving Throw: 18
Tentacle #2 Dexterity Saving Throw: 5
Though the spray covers one of the tentacles (#2), the other tentacle (#1) and Theodore manage to resist its effects.
Nikita - The fight rages around you. Behind, Faila, having succumbed to the gibbering, violently lashes out at Meresaa but misses. In front, Meresaa and Ermasnietsz have engaged Sedgewick and the enormous tentacles. Thumbtack flies just off of your shoulder, awaiting instruction. It is your turn to act.
Boyd - You are currently restrained and have succumbed to the gibbering ((roll a d8 on your next turn; on a 1 to 4, you do nothing. On a 5 or 6, you take no action or bonus action and use all your movement to run in a randomly determined direction. On a 7 or 8, you make a melee attack against a randomly determined creature within range)).
Battlemap:
((Had to do some jiggery-pokery in order to account for line of sight / the observatory wall.))
Nikita, her steps swift and light from bladesong, squeezes east-northeast through her companions to attack Sedgewick from the north. Thumbtack flies in Sedgewick's face, helping with Nikita's attack, winging back to her shoulder once done (Flyby so no AoO). After attacking, Nikita continues moving her full 40' southeast towards the unconsciousSagacitas to hoping later to give it a healing potion.
In doing so, she leaves herself open to an opportunity attack from Sedgewick, hoping to bait a wasted reaction. Casting a spectral blue Shield as a reaction if needed to defend herself, emblazoned full with spectral images of her fallen friends from Celene.
(She still concentrates on Protection from Evil and Good giving fey, aberrations among others disadvantage to attack her.)
Humming her bladesong, Nikita strikes using Booming Blade and her rapier. On a hit, Sedgewick is sheathed in booming energy.
Booming Blade / Rapier to hit: 24 (rolled in character sheet, visible in campaign log). Damage: 10 piercing (plus 1d8 additional thunder damage IF Sedgewick moves 5'+ voluntarily before Nikita's next turn.)
Nikita moves as far southeast towards the Sagacitas as she can but finds that she and Thumbtack have to try to resist the gibbering once more:
Nikita WIS Save: 24 (character sheet / campaign log) - she shakes off the awful gibbering but... Thumbtack WIS Save: 6 (discord) - it is too much for her owl's sensitive ears.
Between them, Nikita and Thumbtack are a blur of movement as they whizz past Sedgewick. Thumbtack swoops down, targeting the aberration's face and causing him to flail wildly. Making the most of the distraction, Nikita is able to thrust her rapier (complete with booming blade) into Theodore's heaving chest, causing blood to spurt everywhere.
Shouting gibberish, Theodore lunges at Nikita as she passes.
Tentacle #1 Attack: 25 23Damage:8 bludgeoning
Nikita casts shield in order to prevent the incoming attack from striking her.
Tentacle #2 Attack: 2614
His first tentacle manages to knock the wind out of Nikita as she passes. However, she manages to expertly avoid the follow-up tentacle and reach the wounded Sagacitas. The gibbering sound fills Nikita's mind once more but she is able to keep hold of her senses. Thumbtack, unfortunately, seems to be affected; the owl flies around erratically as the gibbering begins.
Update: Nikita manages to shield herself from the incoming attack using shield. Sedgewick's tentacle strikes at her but stops just short as a magical shield appears around Nikita.
Tentacles' Turns
Tentacle #1 - Attempts to lash out and grab Tree Knight #1. Thankfully, its attack is wild and fails to find its mark. Crashing harmlessly into the floor nearby.
Attack: 14(Miss)
Tentacle #2 (faerie fired) - Lashes out towards Thumbtack, attempting to ensnare the familiar. It wraps itself around the hapless owl, squeezing and crushing the life out of it.
Attack: 26(Hit) Damage: 15
Tentacle #3 - Having already restrained Tree Knight #2, the pulsating tentacle tightens its grip, attempting to pulverise its prey. Several of the Tree Knight's wooden, branch-like limbs bend and crack.
Damage: 11
Toska's Turn
Drawing her great axe, the hulking Toska charges towards the sounds of combat, keen to enter the fray. She dashes towards the observatory, jumping through the smashed window, to confront Sedgewick.
Theodore Sedgewick stands unsteadily on his feet as he surveys the room. The tentacles were currently following his command but he still felt uneasy about the Sagacitas in the corner; they had shown resistance when the creature had entered the house. Still, he could not dwell on such things whilst the Tree Knights and other outsiders yet remained. Already he could see the Tree Knights' leader preparing for another strike.
"Y-Y-YOUR RUINING EVERYTHING!"the aberration screams. Once more a strange gibbering sound accompanies his words as the tiny mouths covering his body speak in an incomprehensible language. The mouths snap and bite at those closest to Sedgewick, attempting to feed on whatever they can.
Tree Knight Captain's Turn
Keen to be rid of the unnatural aberration standing in front of it. The Tree Knight Captain once more raises its longsword and strikes at Theodore.
Longsword: Attack: 18, Damage: 10slashing damage
Longsword: Attack: 16, Damage: 3 slashing damage
Hacking down with his sword twice, it carves a large chunk out of Sedgewick's right side. The tiny mouths along Theodore's body attempt to lick and bite at the open wound. Spotting the other Tree Knights in difficulty, the Captain silently raises his hand towards the vegetation to the north of the room. Part of the ivy there separates itself from the wall and attempts to wrap itself around tentacle.
Thick strands of ivy wrap themselves around tentacle #1, pulling it down to the floor of the observatory and holding it in place.
Tree Knights' Turns
#1 - Tree Knight #1 follows its Captain's lead, bringing its thornsword down on Sedgewick.
Thornsword: Attack: 14(Narrow Miss)
Unfortunately, its sword fails to penetrate Sedgewick's thick skin. It scratches the bloated aberration but fails to deal any substantial damage.
#2 - Tree Knight #2 will once more attempt to free itself from the tentacle (#3) holding it.
Opposed Grapple Check: 9
Tentacle (#3) Opposed Grapple Check: 12
Try as it may, the Tree Knight fails to free itself, remaining restrained.
#3 - Tree Knight #3 unthinkingly strikes at Sedgewick.
Thornsword: 13(Miss)
The attack is easily evaded by Theodore, who knocks aside the sword without much thought.
#4 - Tree Knight #4 chops down at Sedgewick.
Thornsword: 14(Narrow Miss)
However, it fails to make contact.
Boyd - One of Sedgewick's tentacles is currently wrapped around you (you are restrained). Furthermore, the gibbering noise has caused you to lose your wits. Please roll a d8, on a roll of 1-4 you are frozen in fear and unable to move, on a 5-8 (normally running away or striking the nearest creature) you can attempt to break the tentacle's grip (Strength Saving Throw (DC 14)). At the end of your turn, you will regain control of your mind regardless of what you roll.
Battlemap:
Initiative Order:
Tree Knight Captain - 21 - Green Tree Symbol + Tree Knights (x4) - Small Green Shield Symbols (#2 currently restrained)
Boyd - 19 - Tan Dagger Symbol
Theodore Sedgewick - 18 - Black Alien Symbol
Ermasnietsz - 17 - Orange Infinity Symbol
Faila - 17 - Pink Staff Symbol
Meresaa - 12 - Dark Blue Gun Symbol
Nikita - 10 - Purple Wand Symbol + Thumbtack (Deceased)
Enormous Tentacles (3/3) - 7 - Black Small Shield Symbols (#3 currently restraining a Tree Knight, #1 currently restrained by ivy/flora)
Toska - 5 - Green Battleaxe Symbol (Exhausted)
Sagacitas 'Octodog' - Unconscious - Light Blue Dog Symbol
Boyd is surprised when the dagger blinks back into his open palm. In that moment of distraction, a thick tentacle wraps around his torso and constricts. Ribs pop as the cartilage holding them in place tears, and Boyd screams. His mind fills with the incessant gibbering of the mouths and his screams change to mimic their abhorrent speech. "ph'nglui mglw'nafh Cthulhu R'lyeh wgah'nagl fhtagn!" Boyd yells as his eyes roll back in his head. The tentacle waves him around like a plaything and he is unable to break free.
Uttering some unintelligible gibberish (which is in no way invoking the old gods!), Boyd grips and grabs at Sedgewick's tentacle holding him in place.
Opposed Grapple: 22
However, try as he may, Boyd cannot free himself from the tentacle's grasp.
Theodore Sedgewick's Turn
Theodore looks a little unsteady on his feet as he casts his eye around the room. Focusing on Toska, he screams something at her before lashing out with two of his tentacles.
The first tentacle's attack is wild and Toska easily evades it. The second, however, smacks into her midriff, knocking the wind out of her lungs. As the second tentacle attempts to wrap itself around her she manages to fight it off, even in her exhausted state.
Frustrated, Sedgewick's head pulls back and then spits out black bile at Toska.
Toska Dexterity Saving Throw against Blinding Spittle: 11(fail)
The bile hits Toska in the eyes, she is now blinded.
Ermasnietsz - The battle is now well underway. Boyd continues to struggle with one of Sedgewick's tentacles to your right, though it seems he has regained his senses. In front of you, Toska and the Tree Knights are attempting to bring the aberration down; he bleeds heavily but still stands. Little remains of the man that was once Theodore Sedgewick; perhaps a just reward for one that meddles with creatures far beyond his comprehension. At this point, he acts like a wild, wounded animal, lashing out at those around him. It is your turn to act.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ermasnietsz (The Timekeeper)
Ermasnietsz gives a grimace of disgust while watching Boyd muttering nothing but rubbish words. Peculiarly, she doesn't seem troubled by other things around her which should give rise to complete revulsion... blood and gore, discarded body parts, living mouths licking wounds or the spray of black bile hitting Toska. On the contrary, she has found the last aspect quite amusing and let out a chuckle, wishing that nobody else notices her smiling in the middle of a deadly combat.
Rustling noises are followed by a puff of smoke that smells like powdered silver and iron. The smoke multiplies in such a way that Boyd is immediately covered by some sort of magical mist. "Good job, Toska! Try to not get killed for the next few minutes and I'll lobby for your promotion in the carnival."
Faila reels and then stares wildly as Meresaa deftly escapes her bite. The tall blue woman's chastisement seems to shake her back to her senses, and an aghast expression crosses the urchin girl's face. What is this thing doing to us? This is like the boggles, only worse. But she has nothing in her hands now. She struggles to fight the feeling of her fingernails lengthening into claws. It's hard, but she manages to clamp it down, and concentrates instead, reaching out to the heavy Feywild foliage that has lushly covered the grounds. Grow. Weedy vines curl up around the abominable tentacles.
Casting Entangle in such a way as to get as many tentacles as possible... possibly putting teammates at risk as well.
Magical mist swirls around Boyd as Ermasnietsz casts her spell. The tentacle holding him seems to slacken a little, clearly affected by the magic. Toska spins on the spot and glares, through blinded eyes, in Ermasnietsz's general direction. "Mus' admit, you folk 'ave an uncanny abili'y to fin' trouble,"she shouts back.
((The tentacle will receive disadvantage in future grapple checks against Boyd.))
Faila's Turn
Reaching into the nearby foliage, Faila casts entangle. The plant-life springs into action, growing and curling its way up the tentacles and Sedgewick, as well as Toska and one of the Tree Knights.
Strength Checks vs Entangle
Theodore Sedgewick: 21
Tentacle #1: 16
Tentacle #2: 15
Toska: 21
Tree Knight #4: 20
((Ouch, the lowest roll was a 12))
Unfortunately, all are able to resist the tangling roots; each creature affected is able to tear itself free.
Meresaa - The situation still seems desperate. In spite of the damage sustained, Sedgewick still stands (albeit unsteadily). You watch as the roots and vegetation below Sedgewick and the tentacles grow and begin to wrap around them. For a second it appears to be working, however, the other-worldly aberrations are able to break free and continue their attacks. More desperate measures might be required, it is your turn.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Grumbling to voice her displeasure at the inefficient squandering of such vital power as most of her targets shake off the effects of her spell, Meresaa struggles to get a clear angle on Sedgewick without endangering her companions. Further grumbling ensues as she realizes everyone's too cramped together and she doesn't want to risk any further injury to the reckless Toska. She attempts to make herself as small as possible behind a giant mushroom and uses a spark from her multitool to ignite the top of another small sack. Lobbing it over the group's heads toward tentacle #2, she tries to make whatever use of the temporary magical boon while she can and hopes for the best.
Action: Fire bolt - Attack: 17 Damage: 5 fire Free action: Hope for the best
Almost reverently, in vast contrast to the destructive revulsion with which she had regarded the Sagacitas larvae just a day or two ago, Nikita pours the contents of the Potion of Healing into what she thinks is the fully mature dog-octopus' mouth, taking care not to spill a drop.
You are our ally now and we do not leave allies behind to die, she thinks urgently at the Sagacitas, choking back a sob at the thought that she had done exactly that for her closest friends from Celene. Left them to die and ran just as they had pleaded with her to do. But Nikita is done running.
Turning back, she lopes on the balls of her feet, west, then northwest, avoiding the range of the tentacle to the north of her to enter melee with Sedgewick. Hoping that the Sagacitas is too far from the tentacle (15' away?) to risk being hit again.
"What have you done, Sedgewick? To Reggie Clover. To Asha Hawkes. To the Sagacitas, and everyone else you have abused in your mad scheme."
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #1 - Initiative
The sound of unintelligible gibbering resounds in the heads of the party; for Faila it is overwhelming (see condition below):
Toska limps after the party, still exhausted from her ordeal but eager to join the fighting.
Within the observatory itself, Theodore Sedgewick turns towards the encroaching Tree Knights, his attention averted from the wounded Sagacitas. Three enormous tentacles flail around wildly, lashing out at any that would enter their reach; the Tree Knight (#2) to the South is currently being restrained by tentacle (#3). "WHAT IN THE HELLS ARE YOU DOING IN MY HOUSE?!" Theodore screams at the Tree Knight Captain.
Battlemap:
Initiative Order:
Nature Checks:
Meresaa:
The aberration that was Theodore Sedgewick standing before you has clearly been altered by overfeeding on the energies harvested by the Sagacitas. Five large tentacles extend from the creature, they look like larger versions of the Sagactias' but warped and mutated. Likewise, several small mouths cover Sedgewick's body as though his very being has been spliced with the tiny creatures.
Theodore mind seems so shattered that it is unlikely that any mind-altering conditions would affect him ((condition immunities to charmed and frightened)). Aside from the threat of the tentacles you pay particular attention to the drool dripping from his tongue; should this make contact with a person's eyes it might well lead to temporary blindness.
From previous studies, you recall that the Sagacitas seemed to have a natural resistance to being poisoned, you wonder whether this might extend to Theodore ((condition immunity to poisoned.
Overall, you get the sense that little can be done for the man. This transformation has likely occurred over many months, if not years, and multiple, prolonged exposure to the Sagacitas' energies. Even if one was able to return him to his former self (and size) his mind is likely so broken that he would not be able to function normally.
Nikita:
The aberration that was Theodore Sedgewick standing before you has clearly been altered by overfeeding on the energies harvested by the Sagacitas. Five large tentacles extend from the creature, they look like larger versions of the Sagactias' but warped and mutated. Likewise, several small mouths cover Sedgewick's body as though his very being has been spliced with the tiny creatures.
Theodore mind seems so shattered that it is unlikely that any mind-altering conditions would affect him ((condition immunities to charmed and frightened)).
Overall, you get the sense that little can be done for the man. This transformation has likely occurred over many months, if not years, and multiple, prolonged exposure to the Sagacitas' energies. Even if one was able to return him to his former self (and size) his mind is likely so broken that he would not be able to function normally.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #1 - Tree Knights Turn
Tree Knight Captain
Silently signalling, the Tree Knight Captain relays a series of orders to the other Tree Knights; they seem attentive and ready for action. Without a moment's pause, the Captain strides towards Sedgewick's position. Holding out his wooden hand, several small roots sprout near the aberration's feet, wrapping themselves around Sedgewick's boots.
Aggressively attempting to free his legs, Sedgewick remains rooted to the spot, becoming grappled. The Tree Knight Captain proceeds to raise his hand before bringing it down with a smack.
Mimicking his actions, the roots raise Sedgewick a little off the floor. Unfortunately, Sedgewick manages to prevent the roots from lifting him much higher. As the roots bring him down he is no more than an inch or two off the ground and does not sustain any damage.
Tree Knights
#1 - Engages Sedgewick, standing to the immediate north of its Captain. Bringing its thorny sword down it strikes at the aberration;
However, the sword only ineffectually bounces off of Sedgewick's thick hide.
#2 - Attempts to break free from the tentacle;
Unfortunately, the Tree Knight is unable to break the tentacle's grasp and remains restrained.
#3 - Climbs in through the window and makes to strike Theodore;
The sword bites into Sedgewick's side, causing him to howl in pain.
#4 - Follows Tree Knight #3 through the window and toward Sedgewick. Proceeds to slice at him with its thorny sword;
The Tree Knight's attack successfully strikes Sedgewick, cutting into his pallid skin.
Boyd - Combat has commenced and the Tree Knights have taken up position around the creature that was once Theodore Sedgewick. The aberration bleeds from a couple of minor cuts he has sustained but otherwise seems fresh. It falls upon you to see if you can end this abomination, it is your turn.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
"Cor! Look at that, the wood elves are already in and swingin'!"
Boyd clears the broken window of glass with his blade and hops through. Once in, he moves clear of the opening and takes place in the northwest corner (directly north of wood elf #2). This is the first time he's used his new blade of returning. He looks at it skeptically, then whips it through the air at Ted.
Attack: 24 Damage: 12
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #1 - Boyd's Turn
Boyd's Turn
Boyd finds that there is no need for scepticism as he throws the blade through the air. Sure enough, it flies true, knicking Sedgewick in his right shoulder before returning. Though, at first, it looks like a relatively small cut, thick dark blood streams from it; quite obviously causing discomfort. Letting out a bellow, Theodore whips around to face Boyd. "Who in the blazes are you?!" he screams.
Theodore Sedgewick's Turn
Spotting his new target, Sedgewick's giant tentacles lash out toward Boyd.
The tentacle crashes into Boyd, knocking the wind out of him. It attempts to wrap itself around his body much like a snake would its prey.
Boyd - Please make a Strength Saving Throw (DC 15) or become restrained.
Howling with delight at his successful attack, Theodore turns his attention to the Tree Knight Captain standing in front of him. Another of his tentacles attempts to strike at the Captain.
The mighty tentacle smacks into the Tree Knight Captain, causing splinters and bark to fly everywhere. Similarly to the other Tree Knight (#2), the Captain becomes restrained as the tentacle wraps around his ancient armour.
Ermasnietsz - Directly in front of you, Boyd has made a daring move into the observatory. Seconds later you hear a massive smashing sound as one of Sedgewick's tentacles crashes through the desk Boyd was standing on, severely hurting him in the process. However, Sedgewick has sustained damage himself, a combination of the Tree Knights' and Boyd's attacks are causing him to bleed profusely. It is your turn to join the fracas, what do you do?
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Wis save: 7
Str save: 3
((I'll rp it on my turn. 5hp left))
Ermasnietsz (The Timekeeper)
Ermasnietsz stares at the aberration with an expression of disinterested observer. But, she's certainly taken aback by the hair-brained movement of her rogue comrade as her hand automatically reaches for the off-hand dagger. Her ultimate aim is to prevent Boyd from committing a suicidal act based on hormonal rush. A sharp noise and the already wielding dagger is on the way to slash at the creepy tentacle like appendage that's been keeping Boyd hostage.
"Mr Boyd! It's high time you choose an opponent that you can avoid... Toska!"
Round 1: Action
Attack [Dagger] x Tentacle: Attack: 6 Damage: 4
InkedBee (Undead_Analyst)
Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts - Jenviel Tsumara: Fallen Aasimar- Monk|Crimson Sands of Time - Navarra Iltazyara: Human- Druid/Warlock| Bleak Prospect - Ermasnietsz: Reborn- Clockwork Soul Sorcerer
Faila shrieks like a deranged bird, a strangled cry, her eyes bloodshot and her teeth sharpening and lengthening into deadly points in her widening mouth. The gibbering seems to have drawn out the abomination in the wild child, or at least her terror has gotten her hijacked. She writhes, as if trying to escape, but, feeling cornered, now by a tall, slender blue woman with alien eyes at her side, lunges at the suddenly threatening figure with her alarmingly growing teeth.
Attack: Primal Savagery, 8 to hit
Wisdom Saving Throw: 16
Meresaa turns to regard Faila, eyes lingering on what-was-Sedgewick for a moment longer. She scowls disapprovingly at the young woman.
"That won't do at all, now will it?" she intones as she swings the small sack she's been palming to the back of her hand, drawstring clutched between her first two fingers. She grabs Faila's shoulder and attempts to redirect her feral focus toward the bulbous form wreaking havoc in the observatory-turned-gazebo.
Squeezing between the confused druid and the hypercritical sorcerer, she tries to find a better vantage with an unobstructed view of the battlefield (just north of Erma). She mutters something in a shrill, punctuated dialect and slings the pouch into the center of the room, exploding into a fine mist on impact with the floor. As the spray settles, a large swath of the area begins to glow with an eerie blue light.
Faerie fire DEX save 15 positioned to hit Tedgewick and tentacles 1 & 2
Characters currently being ruined on this forum:
Neria Tallfellow (Halfling Rogue) - Curse of the Crimson Throne with Ashen_Age
Wis save: 11
Characters currently being ruined on this forum:
Neria Tallfellow (Halfling Rogue) - Curse of the Crimson Throne with Ashen_Age
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #1 - Ermasnietsz's, Faila's & Meresaa's Turns
Ermasnietsz's Turn
Acting quickly, Ermasnietsz attempts to strike the tentacle restraining Boyd. Her dagger lashes out wickedly but, unfortunately, the tentacle is too quick and manages to avoid her attack.
Faila's Turn
Faila lets out a wild shriek and lunges at Meresaa, her feral teeth snapping down. Fortunately, her bite finds only air as Meresaa deftly evades the attack.
Meresaa's Turn
Slinging her pouch towards the centre of the observatory, it explodes into mist, illuminating the area.
Though the spray covers one of the tentacles (#2), the other tentacle (#1) and Theodore manage to resist its effects.
Nikita - The fight rages around you. Behind, Faila, having succumbed to the gibbering, violently lashes out at Meresaa but misses. In front, Meresaa and Ermasnietsz have engaged Sedgewick and the enormous tentacles. Thumbtack flies just off of your shoulder, awaiting instruction. It is your turn to act.
Boyd - You are currently restrained and have succumbed to the gibbering ((roll a d8 on your next turn; on a 1 to 4, you do nothing. On a 5 or 6, you take no action or bonus action and use all your movement to run in a randomly determined direction. On a 7 or 8, you make a melee attack against a randomly determined creature within range)).
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Nikita, her steps swift and light from bladesong, squeezes east-northeast through her companions to attack Sedgewick from the north. Thumbtack flies in Sedgewick's face, helping with Nikita's attack, winging back to her shoulder once done (Flyby so no AoO). After attacking, Nikita continues moving her full 40' southeast towards the unconscious Sagacitas to hoping later to give it a healing potion.
In doing so, she leaves herself open to an opportunity attack from Sedgewick, hoping to bait a wasted reaction. Casting a spectral blue Shield as a reaction if needed to defend herself, emblazoned full with spectral images of her fallen friends from Celene.
(She still concentrates on Protection from Evil and Good giving fey, aberrations among others disadvantage to attack her.)
Humming her bladesong, Nikita strikes using Booming Blade and her rapier. On a hit, Sedgewick is sheathed in booming energy.
Booming Blade / Rapier to hit: 24 (rolled in character sheet, visible in campaign log).
Damage: 10 piercing (plus 1d8 additional thunder damage IF Sedgewick moves 5'+ voluntarily before Nikita's next turn.)
Nikita moves as far southeast towards the Sagacitas as she can but finds that she and Thumbtack have to try to resist the gibbering once more:
Nikita WIS Save: 24 (character sheet / campaign log) - she shakes off the awful gibbering but...
Thumbtack WIS Save: 6 (discord) - it is too much for her owl's sensitive ears.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #1 - Nikita's Turn
Nikita's Turn
Between them, Nikita and Thumbtack are a blur of movement as they whizz past Sedgewick. Thumbtack swoops down, targeting the aberration's face and causing him to flail wildly. Making the most of the distraction, Nikita is able to thrust her rapier (complete with booming blade) into Theodore's heaving chest, causing blood to spurt everywhere.
Shouting gibberish, Theodore lunges at Nikita as she passes.
Tentacle #1 Attack: 25 23 Damage: 8 bludgeoning2614His first tentacle manages to knock the wind out of Nikita as she passes.However, she manages to expertly avoid the follow-up tentacle and reach the wounded Sagacitas. The gibbering sound fills Nikita's mind once more but she is able to keep hold of her senses. Thumbtack, unfortunately, seems to be affected; the owl flies around erratically as the gibbering begins.Update: Nikita manages to shield herself from the incoming attack using shield. Sedgewick's tentacle strikes at her but stops just short as a magical shield appears around Nikita.
Tentacles' Turns
Toska's Turn
Drawing her great axe, the hulking Toska charges towards the sounds of combat, keen to enter the fray. She dashes towards the observatory, jumping through the smashed window, to confront Sedgewick.
Toska manages to tune out Sedgewick's incessant gibbering as she focuses her mind on the target.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #2 - Start of Round
Theodore Sedgewick stands unsteadily on his feet as he surveys the room. The tentacles were currently following his command but he still felt uneasy about the Sagacitas in the corner; they had shown resistance when the creature had entered the house. Still, he could not dwell on such things whilst the Tree Knights and other outsiders yet remained. Already he could see the Tree Knights' leader preparing for another strike.
"Y-Y-YOUR RUINING EVERYTHING!" the aberration screams. Once more a strange gibbering sound accompanies his words as the tiny mouths covering his body speak in an incomprehensible language. The mouths snap and bite at those closest to Sedgewick, attempting to feed on whatever they can.
Tree Knight Captain's Turn
Keen to be rid of the unnatural aberration standing in front of it. The Tree Knight Captain once more raises its longsword and strikes at Theodore.
Hacking down with his sword twice, it carves a large chunk out of Sedgewick's right side. The tiny mouths along Theodore's body attempt to lick and bite at the open wound. Spotting the other Tree Knights in difficulty, the Captain silently raises his hand towards the vegetation to the north of the room. Part of the ivy there separates itself from the wall and attempts to wrap itself around tentacle.
Thick strands of ivy wrap themselves around tentacle #1, pulling it down to the floor of the observatory and holding it in place.
Tree Knights' Turns
#1 - Tree Knight #1 follows its Captain's lead, bringing its thornsword down on Sedgewick.
Unfortunately, its sword fails to penetrate Sedgewick's thick skin. It scratches the bloated aberration but fails to deal any substantial damage.
#2 - Tree Knight #2 will once more attempt to free itself from the tentacle (#3) holding it.
Try as it may, the Tree Knight fails to free itself, remaining restrained.
#3 - Tree Knight #3 unthinkingly strikes at Sedgewick.
The attack is easily evaded by Theodore, who knocks aside the sword without much thought.
#4 - Tree Knight #4 chops down at Sedgewick.
However, it fails to make contact.
Boyd - One of Sedgewick's tentacles is currently wrapped around you (you are restrained). Furthermore, the gibbering noise has caused you to lose your wits. Please roll a d8, on a roll of 1-4 you are frozen in fear and unable to move, on a 5-8 (normally running away or striking the nearest creature) you can attempt to break the tentacle's grip (Strength Saving Throw (DC 14)). At the end of your turn, you will regain control of your mind regardless of what you roll.
Battlemap:
Initiative Order:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Boyd is surprised when the dagger blinks back into his open palm. In that moment of distraction, a thick tentacle wraps around his torso and constricts. Ribs pop as the cartilage holding them in place tears, and Boyd screams. His mind fills with the incessant gibbering of the mouths and his screams change to mimic their abhorrent speech. "ph'nglui mglw'nafh Cthulhu R'lyeh wgah'nagl fhtagn!" Boyd yells as his eyes roll back in his head. The tentacle waves him around like a plaything and he is unable to break free.
Str save: 6
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #2 - Boyd's Turn
Boyd's Turn
Uttering some unintelligible gibberish (which is in no way invoking the old gods!), Boyd grips and grabs at Sedgewick's tentacle holding him in place.
However, try as he may, Boyd cannot free himself from the tentacle's grasp.
Theodore Sedgewick's Turn
Theodore looks a little unsteady on his feet as he casts his eye around the room. Focusing on Toska, he screams something at her before lashing out with two of his tentacles.
The first tentacle's attack is wild and Toska easily evades it. The second, however, smacks into her midriff, knocking the wind out of her lungs. As the second tentacle attempts to wrap itself around her she manages to fight it off, even in her exhausted state.
Frustrated, Sedgewick's head pulls back and then spits out black bile at Toska.
The bile hits Toska in the eyes, she is now blinded.
Ermasnietsz - The battle is now well underway. Boyd continues to struggle with one of Sedgewick's tentacles to your right, though it seems he has regained his senses. In front of you, Toska and the Tree Knights are attempting to bring the aberration down; he bleeds heavily but still stands. Little remains of the man that was once Theodore Sedgewick; perhaps a just reward for one that meddles with creatures far beyond his comprehension. At this point, he acts like a wild, wounded animal, lashing out at those around him. It is your turn to act.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Ermasnietsz (The Timekeeper)
Ermasnietsz gives a grimace of disgust while watching Boyd muttering nothing but rubbish words. Peculiarly, she doesn't seem troubled by other things around her which should give rise to complete revulsion... blood and gore, discarded body parts, living mouths licking wounds or the spray of black bile hitting Toska. On the contrary, she has found the last aspect quite amusing and let out a chuckle, wishing that nobody else notices her smiling in the middle of a deadly combat.
Rustling noises are followed by a puff of smoke that smells like powdered silver and iron. The smoke multiplies in such a way that Boyd is immediately covered by some sort of magical mist. "Good job, Toska! Try to not get killed for the next few minutes and I'll lobby for your promotion in the carnival."
Action: [Tooltip Not Found] [Protection from Evil and Good]
Wisdom Saving Throw: 11
InkedBee (Undead_Analyst)
Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts - Jenviel Tsumara: Fallen Aasimar- Monk|Crimson Sands of Time - Navarra Iltazyara: Human- Druid/Warlock| Bleak Prospect - Ermasnietsz: Reborn- Clockwork Soul Sorcerer
Faila reels and then stares wildly as Meresaa deftly escapes her bite. The tall blue woman's chastisement seems to shake her back to her senses, and an aghast expression crosses the urchin girl's face. What is this thing doing to us? This is like the boggles, only worse. But she has nothing in her hands now. She struggles to fight the feeling of her fingernails lengthening into claws. It's hard, but she manages to clamp it down, and concentrates instead, reaching out to the heavy Feywild foliage that has lushly covered the grounds. Grow. Weedy vines curl up around the abominable tentacles.
Casting Entangle in such a way as to get as many tentacles as possible... possibly putting teammates at risk as well.
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #2 - Ermasnietsz & Faila's Turns
Ermasnietsz's Turn
Magical mist swirls around Boyd as Ermasnietsz casts her spell. The tentacle holding him seems to slacken a little, clearly affected by the magic. Toska spins on the spot and glares, through blinded eyes, in Ermasnietsz's general direction. "Mus' admit, you folk 'ave an uncanny abili'y to fin' trouble," she shouts back.
((The tentacle will receive disadvantage in future grapple checks against Boyd.))
Faila's Turn
Reaching into the nearby foliage, Faila casts entangle. The plant-life springs into action, growing and curling its way up the tentacles and Sedgewick, as well as Toska and one of the Tree Knights.
Strength Checks vs Entangle
((Ouch, the lowest roll was a 12))
Unfortunately, all are able to resist the tangling roots; each creature affected is able to tear itself free.
Meresaa - The situation still seems desperate. In spite of the damage sustained, Sedgewick still stands (albeit unsteadily). You watch as the roots and vegetation below Sedgewick and the tentacles grow and begin to wrap around them. For a second it appears to be working, however, the other-worldly aberrations are able to break free and continue their attacks. More desperate measures might be required, it is your turn.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Grumbling to voice her displeasure at the inefficient squandering of such vital power as most of her targets shake off the effects of her spell, Meresaa struggles to get a clear angle on Sedgewick without endangering her companions. Further grumbling ensues as she realizes everyone's too cramped together and she doesn't want to risk any further injury to the reckless Toska. She attempts to make herself as small as possible behind a giant mushroom and uses a spark from her multitool to ignite the top of another small sack. Lobbing it over the group's heads toward tentacle #2, she tries to make whatever use of the temporary magical boon while she can and hopes for the best.
Action: Fire bolt - Attack: 17 Damage: 5 fire
Free action: Hope for the best
Characters currently being ruined on this forum:
Neria Tallfellow (Halfling Rogue) - Curse of the Crimson Throne with Ashen_Age
Almost reverently, in vast contrast to the destructive revulsion with which she had regarded the Sagacitas larvae just a day or two ago, Nikita pours the contents of the Potion of Healing into what she thinks is the fully mature dog-octopus' mouth, taking care not to spill a drop.
(Potion of Healing: heals 8 hp).
You are our ally now and we do not leave allies behind to die, she thinks urgently at the Sagacitas, choking back a sob at the thought that she had done exactly that for her closest friends from Celene. Left them to die and ran just as they had pleaded with her to do. But Nikita is done running.
Turning back, she lopes on the balls of her feet, west, then northwest, avoiding the range of the tentacle to the north of her to enter melee with Sedgewick. Hoping that the Sagacitas is too far from the tentacle (15' away?) to risk being hit again.
"What have you done, Sedgewick? To Reggie Clover. To Asha Hawkes. To the Sagacitas, and everyone else you have abused in your mad scheme."
Nikita WIS Save: 21
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk