"Tana!" Sera calls out. "we probably can aid you in your quest for getting rid of that dragon..but we have something important to do first" She looks at the others. She not speak for them but getting distracted from the set goal was not something she liked.
She also noticed with a bit of worry that the poison gas was slowly seeping back. They had not much time to stand chit chat
Tell us the location of the Blue dragon cave and we meet you at a location nearby. And together we might have a better chance" the offer was there...would she take it?
Tana stops in her lumbering path to look back at the fearsome cleric with no small amount of confusion. Humans hunt ogres. Ogres eat humans. It's a tradition as old as time. Clerics and Paladins were easily the worst when it came to relationships with ogres. You can see confusion turn to worry and distrust. Her own life, she'd risk trusting humans... but her kids? And what if these humans were no different than the soldiers that sent a dragon to her cave? Would they use her to kill the dragon and then turn on her. No. The risk was too great. With a grumpy scowl and a huff, she turns back around and continues her march.
"Air get stinky soon. Come."
Her path leads you through the absolute worst terrain you've ever seen. The greenish yellow scorched clouds above crackle and rumble as if any second it were going to rain, but never a drop falls. While you'd think the overcast would provide some measure of cover from the unbearable heat, it turns the area into a sauna. Your lips are chapped and crusted with salty dust. Flesh turns red and blistered in the heat, and each step feels like your wading through a bog of steaming water, weighing down your limbs. Even blinking hurts, and you realize your eyes are sunburnt from the intense radiation. Tana shows a slack in her formidable resilience and has slowed her steps... drenched in salty sweat, and huffing raspily with dried, irritated lungs. At least now she's easier to keep up with.
The poisonous vapors caught up to you a while ago, and the effects are starting to take hold. Orr the Unseen cast Fly on Buckeran so he can keep track of the mapping from a safe height. But it does little to block the heat. So, Buckeran tucks into his mansion for a moment to grab his parasol before you continue on. Seeing him buzz about overhead with a brown and gold parasol like a tiny Mary Poppins adds a much-needed bit of levity to the otherwise grim march. Thanks to his vantage point, he's able to warn the group of impending monsters, and deeper plumes of noxious gas. But Tana seems unimpressed by the information. She appears to know where to turn about the same time Buckeran does.
Please roll CON vs Heat: DC 15 - Orr the Unseen Fails their save: Level 1 Exhaustion. - Tana fails her save: Level 1 Exhaustion. - Buckeran Fails his save: 1 HP Heat Damage Please roll CON vs Poison: DC 13 - Orr the Unseen Succeeds their save. - Buckeran Fails their save: Poisoned Condition - Tana Fails their save: Poisoned Condition - Cruch Fails their save: Poisoned Condition - Munch Fails their save: Poisoned Condition - Barkly Fails their save: Poisoned Condition
The final stretch is the worst. Lightning crashes and smites the ground, opening up cracks in the earth that spew searing, noxious vapors, and Buckeran gets a little nervous about being up there. His spell starts to fade just before a new crag presents itself. The earth splits open and a vent catches his parasol, shooting him up into the air like a firecracker! He barely manages to hang on to the ride before slowly drifting back down to the ground. Shaken and relieved to still be alive, he laughs nervously and scurries towards the relative safety of Barkly.
"That was, haha... quite a -urp- ride!" His heavy breathing causes Buckeran to inhale the vapors, and he promplty coughs out a ragged cough before finishing his climb atop the sickly looking Giant Strider. "uggggghhh..." he bellows and wipes the sweat from his brow. "Heading south will get us around this hotbed the quickest, I think."
Tana nods and diverts the party. Bizarre looking insectoids crawl forth from the crags, but they show more interest in scurrying away from the party than attacking. It doesn't stop Munch and Crunch from bounding towards the prospective treats and attempting to indulge in a snack. They each catch one, and rip at them with their razer teeth before swallwing deeply. But the poison in their stomachs prevent them from keeping the masticated monsters down, and they vomit up a grotesque pus-drenched mess of limbs and tails. Tana looks concerned for het pets, and scratches them behind the ears before trudging on.
It's about a 10 minute diversion around the newly formed crag. But once you put the noxious plumes of it behind you, the air starts to clear a bit. Gradually the deadly hellscape dissolves into a barren wasteland... practically an oasis by comparison. The clouds are thinner here, and the sun glares angrily down on you. But here, there is scattered vegetation, and haggard wildlife. You find a sun-bleached, leafless tree that offers meager shade, and Tana plops down heavily at its trunk. Crunch curls up next to her, whimpering, while Munch scratches at the root system, burrowing for water. Within a few minutes, Munch is successful and a muddy trickle oozes forth from the sand. Munch, Crunch, and Tana take turns burying their faces in the hole to lap up the wet ooze. Then they sit together in a pile and catch their breaths. By all appearances, you seem to be out of the hellscape.
Buckeran consults his map. "If I'm reading this correctly, we're not too far from our destination. We're a bit north and west of it." He shields his eyes from the sun with his hand to look at the horizon, and spots storm clouds to the southeast. "There... We could be there in less than an hour at a leisurely pace."
Orr follows Buckeran's gaze with heavy-lidded eyes. Orr looks like they could collapse at any moment, but they stand, wobbly yet resolute, ready to continue the march.
One hour of clean air is enough to reduce one level of Poison. - If you have the Poisoned condition, but aren't taking Poison damage yet, you'll be free of the Poisoned condition by the time you make it to the lair. - If you are taking Poison damage, you stop taking damage by the time you make it to the lair, but will have the Poisoned condition.
One hour out of the hellscape isn't enough to alleviate any Exhaustion you gain from Heat environment, because it's still deadly hot. - If you are taking heat damage (1d6) from over-exposure you'll stop taking heat damage by the time you make it to the lair.
Merkas plods along on Barkly offering to give Orr a ride when Buckeran takes to the skies. “Hey Orr, it might not be your style but been thinking that this cloak might be better for you than me, we get a chance to rest I’ll give it to you”
“Oh not you too, Barkly?” The kender strokes the striders neck when he feels her steps falter as the toxic odours return. “Don’t worry, we shouldn’t be here very much longer”
The blast that takes Buckeran into the upper atmosphere would have been funny if it wasn’t for the dire situation they were in. Merkas sighs audibly as the elder kender is within sight again and safely on the ground. “Bucky, my friend, maybe we should leave flying to the birds”
Once at the rest spot Merkas checks over Barkly noticing that, other than the gasses getting to her, she’s doing alright he joins Buckeran around the map.
“That storm doesn’t look good, is it there all the time?” Glancing at the map again and then looking around their respite. “Maybe we all take break here for an hour or so just to clear everyones lungs?”
(Suggesting a short rest here, also give a chance yo trade some attuned items. Offering the Cloak of Protection to Orr so Merkas can free up an attuning slot for his daggers and maybe a certain powerful book…..)
Following out of this hellish landscape and glad Buckeran did not completely flyed off Sera choff and slumb to the ground " okay...finally out. if that was the easy and best way ? i take my chanses on going around back."
Merkas suggestion of taking a break is good for her. Even she feel the sickening effect of the gases now. The others must feel terrible. But it is still very hot. Lingering around here is painfully warm. "Wait..let me at least try help some agaisnt the heat...how about a refreshing shower?"
marking a area about 30 feet big she picks up some sand and take a few drops of water.."Paladine...show one sweaty subject and a whole bunch of other stinking friends some fresh water" and she gestures to the air and feel a down pour of refreshing water hits her and anyone willing to take a shower.
(cast create water as rain. it at least feels good even it might not be enough vs the heat. Up to the DM)
Hastos begins to feel the heat take hold, but he digs deep and shrugs it off. His friends need him to be strong. As the clouds begin to curl back around them, he tightens the cloak around his mouth which seems to stave off the worst of the poison.
His team doesn’t seem to be weathering the elements as well as he, but they soon make it beyond the gasses and to a sparse rest area. Hastos takes his water skin out and takes a small mouthful. Swishes it around his mouth and a quick gargle. He spits out the oddly colored water. “Don’t want that stuff in your stomach. Was bad enough in our lungs.” He then takes a decent drink of water from his water skin and replaces back into position at his side. He scans the surrounding area and horizon for any sign that they might not be alone. (Perception:18).
He walks to each of the team and checks on them to see if they need anything, spending a little more time with Sera than the others.
Lastly, he summons strength from within and begins to feel the damage from the heat and poison melt away. (Second Wind: +17)
Merkas plods along on Barkly offering to give Orr a ride when Buckeran takes to the skies. “Hey Orr, it might not be your style but been thinking that this cloak might be better for you than me, we get a chance to rest I’ll give it to you”
“Oh not you too, Barkly?” The kender strokes the striders neck when he feels her steps falter as the toxic odours return. “Don’t worry, we shouldn’t be here very much longer”
The blast that takes Buckeran into the upper atmosphere would have been funny if it wasn’t for the dire situation they were in. Merkas sighs audibly as the elder kender is within sight again and safely on the ground. “Bucky, my friend, maybe we should leave flying to the birds”
Once at the rest spot Merkas checks over Barkly noticing that, other than the gasses getting to her, she’s doing alright he joins Buckeran around the map.
“That storm doesn’t look good, is it there all the time?” Glancing at the map again and then looking around their respite. “Maybe we all take break here for an hour or so just to clear everyones lungs?”
(Suggesting a short rest here, also give a chance yo trade some attuned items. Offering the Cloak of Protection to Orr so Merkas can free up an attuning slot for his daggers and maybe a certain powerful book…..)
Buckeran, sickly and sweating as he is, accepts the cloak with a meager smile. "That is very -hurk- generous of you, my lad. I will cherish it for years to come -hack hack-" Then he slumps to the ground next to Barkly, using her as a pillow and shade, in hopes that his stomach will settle from the heat and poison.
Following out of this hellish landscape and glad Buckeran did not completely flyed off Sera choff and slumb to the ground " okay...finally out. if that was the easy and best way ? i take my chanses on going around back."
Merkas suggestion of taking a break is good for her. Even she feel the sickening effect of the gases now. The others must feel terrible. But it is still very hot. Lingering around here is painfully warm. "Wait..let me at least try help some agaisnt the heat...how about a refreshing shower?"
marking a area about 30 feet big she picks up some sand and take a few drops of water.."Paladine...show one sweaty subject and a whole bunch of other stinking friends some fresh water" and she gestures to the air and feel a down pour of refreshing water hits her and anyone willing to take a shower.
(cast create water as rain. it at least feels good even it might not be enough vs the heat. Up to the DM)
Tana and her pets perk up at the sight of the downpour. She crawls out from under the sparse shade of the leafless tree and stands upright, head to the sky, mouth open, like a statue. After she's had her fill, she gargles the water and spits on herself... making a rather crass spit-bath of it. Munch and Crunch crawl out into the rain and lap at the puddles that form. They don't have their typically boundless energy thanks to the poisoning, but they do seem to be in better spirits. Their pitiful whining has become more faint and less frequent.
I'll grant the party another save vs Heat. Failure doesn't cause heat damage or exhaustion. Buckeran will fail their save vs. Heat Orr the Unseen will fail their save vs. Heat Tana will succeed their save vs. Heat
Orr sits crosslegged in the rain, eyes closed, and lets the cooling bath wash over them peacefully. The rough trek through was a harrowing challenge for Orr. A chance to rest and recover in the soothing downpour was more than they could've hoped for. They don't seem to be in any mood to talk, let alone move. The usually stoic orc just shuts down. Their breath slows to the point that they almost look like they've fallen asleep.
After Tana finishes her bath, she plops down next to her pets and scratches their ears. They let out a low rumble and their eyes close almost completely at the soothing touch. "Storm blows always. Bad magic. Little squishies should not go there. There are many monsters in the storm."
Orr expends 3 HD during Short Rest: 6+6+7 (Orr the Unseen still looks rough, but they do seem healthier after their meditation.) Tana expends 3 HD during Short Rest: 11+4+13 (Tana is back to her old self, except for the Poisoned and Exhaustion conditions.)
Merkas pulls Barkly off to the side to give the others some reprieve from the heat. “Here girl, have some heat would you” As he speaks a small bonfire erupts below the giant strider. “This magic thing is starting to feel more normal, not sure if I like that, but maybe my sister can help me under It better, whatcha think?”
Letting the strider soak up the heat Merkas sits with the others as he spins his sisters dagger, Splinter, around while he slows his breathing and focuses on resting
(Short rest: 3 hd for a total 10 healing to Merkas, Fire to heal Barkly: +10 hp per round, Barkly is full health, remove attuned cloak of protection and gives it to Orr, and attune to His daggers, Receive Sorcery points back from the bloodvial+1)
“So the storm is always there huh? Guess that means we go from hot and dry to cold and wet, who knew the weather around here would change so quickly”
Orr accepts the cloak graciously and spends some time attuning to it. "I prefer to bask in the light of the stars and sun, but perhaps a bit of shelter from the withering sky is a wise choice." Case in point, Orr the Unseen's skin looks notably red and blistered from the heat. Though they are made of stern orc constitution, the glaring sun of this desolation has begun to wear down Orr's natural defenses.
Orr the Unseen attunes to Cloak of Protection.
Tana laughs. It's not a raucous, bawdy laugh. More a dry, cynical one. "Not that rain. When rain falls... it burns. The lighting burns the dirt. And the sky rolls and twists like giant air elemental. Tana no go there. It cursed."
After Tana feels rested enough from the much needed downpour, she stretches her massive body and scratches herself. Then, as if there was no need to explain herself, she starts stomping away into the wilderness. Munch and Crunch take up her pace beside her, panting happily as they lope towards the dusty horizon. She's notably not heading back into the hellscape just yet. And based on the evidence that she carries no supplies on her, it's presumable that she lives off the land, and probably knows of this area because that's her hunting ground.
Once you're all rested and attuned, the mission calls. When you get closer, you see what Tana meant. This is no storm-drenched oasis you see before you, but a desolate, harrowing place seemingly abandoned by the gods... even moreso than the rest of Krynn. Lightning smites the earth, sending eruptions of rocky debris in every direction. The storm clouds, black and blue like a bruise in the sky, roil overhead, stingily witholding it's rain. And while no poison fumes waft towards you, the air smells burnt and acrid. Magic here has gone completely awry. Horrifying mutated insectoid creatures scurry from shelter to shelter as they hunt carrion. Barkly seems skittish in this region, and she wasn't terribly bothered by the hellscape, which at least brought her the comfort of the heat vents.
Although it's still uncomfortably sultry here, the heat is not as bad. Instead the air is filled with a static charge that frizzes your hair and makes your skin itch. The closer you get, the more crystal formations you find where the lightning heated the sand so hot and rapidly that it reforming into briliant prismatic cascades, that send pirouetting rainbows of light across the wilderness.
Luck check to not get struck by lightning: - Sera (high risk) is safe - Merkas is safe - Hastos (high risk) is at risk: roll DEX save to dodge the blast (DC 13), 15 damage, Lightning. - Buckeran is safe - Barkly is safe - Orr the Unseen is safe
Hrothbert_Neruca, please roll a Handle Animal check to keep Barkly calm. DC 7 High risk if you're tall or wearing significant amounts of metal. There's no half damage on success. A succesful save is completely successful.
Upon arrival of the cave, the sight is breathtaking. Massive crystal structures, like shining prismatic monuments, jut out of the ground and dazzle the main entryway with a myriad of brilliant colors. The light sprinkles the cave so well, you don't even need torchlight to see.
Hastos mind turns inwards as the group continues toward the cave. Lost in thought, he doesn’t notice the hairs on the back of his neck start to raise.
Suddenly, his eye dart up to the group. “Wait a minute. Do you guys realize that-“
BOOOM! A bolt of lightening comes crashing down, attracted by the adamantine armor. The bolt of lightning was instantaneous, hits hard, and sends a shockwave of sound and debris of sand and crystal through the group. In a blink it’s all over, just motes of dust swirling about the group, small pieces of rock falling randomly from the sky. As everyone’s eyes adjust (their ears still humming), they see Hastos crumpled to his knees on the ground, a small, darkened smoulding pit on his left pauldron still has an ember of red at its center.
He looks up slowly to the group, his eyes unfocused and uncomprehending. His lips move in an uncoordinated fashion as he manages to force out “..daFuq?”
Lightning flashed and struck all around them. By sheer fortune, Sera was untouched—but Hastos was not.
She rushed to him as he dropped to one knee, smoke still curling from scorched armor and skin. “What a terrible mission,” she muttered sharply. “This was evaluated as medium hard?” She shot Buckeran a scowl. The librarian clearly had no idea what he was talking about.
She knelt before Hastos at once. “Please—no protests,” she said firmly as she laid her hands against his burned cheek and chin. She cared for him. The rude ogre could wait—Hastos mattered
“Paladine… restore him… please.”
A faint sparkle of divine light shimmered between her palms. Warmth spread, and the worst of his wounds faded beneath her touch.
Satisfied, Sera helped him back to his feet and stayed close as they moved onward, until the path opened into a cave filled with beautiful bluish crystals. The sight stole her breath.
“Wow…” she murmured softly.
Then her expression hardened with caution. “So… this lair is abandoned?” she asked aloud, glancing toward Buckeran. After everything so far, his intelligence had proven… unreliable.
(Animal handling:7, rolled a 1 but rerolled due to Lucky trait)
The lightning flashes, the boom coming as quick as the flash, and Barkly nearly bolts headlong away from the fighter. Her sudden jump knocks Markas from her back, the kender dangling from the reigns as he starts soothing and calming her to keep her from taking off. “It’s alright girl, it’s alright, we’re almost there, almost there”It’s very clear that his words and actions are barely keeping the strider in check.
After it’s clear that his big friend is alright and the tensions have eased, Merkas jokes “Geez, Hastos, you gotta be so loud? You scared Barkly something fierce, I think you owe her an apology.”Then cautious look in his eyes tells you he’s really just trying lighten the mood some so the crew doesn’t start attacking each other.
The crystals are so clearly magical that Merkas starts looking for smaller ones he can collect for research and crafting later. (Arcana:5, Perception: 14) “Well if this is all concentrated magical energy, makes sense that all that chaos is out there. I bet nature don’t know what to do with itself”
Hastos mind turns inwards as the group continues toward the cave. Lost in thought, he doesn’t notice the hairs on the back of his neck start to raise.
Suddenly, his eye dart up to the group. “Wait a minute. Do you guys realize that-“
BOOOM! A bolt of lightening comes crashing down, attracted by the adamantine armor. The bolt of lightning was instantaneous, hits hard, and sends a shockwave of sound and debris of sand and crystal through the group. In a blink it’s all over, just motes of dust swirling about the group, small pieces of rock falling randomly from the sky. As everyone’s eyes adjust (their ears still humming), they see Hastos crumpled to his knees on the ground, a small, darkened smoulding pit on his left pauldron still has an ember of red at its center.
He looks up slowly to the group, his eyes unfocused and uncomprehending. His lips move in an uncoordinated fashion as he manages to force out “..daFuq?”
Buckeran bolts towards Hastos. "Hastos, by the gods! Are you alright?!"
Then her expression hardened with caution. “So… this lair is abandoned?” she asked aloud, glancing toward Buckeran. After everything so far, his intelligence had proven… unreliable.
Buckeran, who's eyes are still cast skyward in aprehension of potential lightning, snaps his gaze to Sera when she asks her skeptical question. "Well... as far as we know. We've never been able to send a team out to investigate. But all the signs would suggest that either the blue dragons in this den have either died or abandoned it." He gestures towards the sky. "Dragons, in spite of the implied threat they present, are an important part of a magical ecosystem. When one dies or abandons their lair, things get..." again he waves his hand vaguely towards the sky, "weird, for lack of a better word. But that doesn't necessarily mean a dragon's lair that has been abandoned would be empty. There are creatures who would thrive in a place such as this. Elementals, like the one we fought with our ogre friend, guard these lairs... even when they become tombs. The worst case scenario is that the dragons are still dead inside this cavern. It could take centuries, but eventually, the really powerful ones could become dracoliches. The magical curse from a creature such as that could plague a region for a millenia, even after it's slain... assuming a hero strong enough exists to kill it again."
Orr the Unseen blinks and looks at their lightning spear. "I'm not sure such a weapon will serve me in this den. Perhaps it can be used as a defense weapon. If you prefer, Sera, you may redistribute this weapon."
When using the Dodge Action with the Lightning Spear, I'm going to grant the weilder Resistance against Lightning Damage.
(Animal handling:7, rolled a 1 but rerolled due to Lucky trait)
The lightning flashes, the boom coming as quick as the flash, and Barkly nearly bolts headlong away from the fighter. Her sudden jump knocks Markas from her back, the kender dangling from the reigns as he starts soothing and calming her to keep her from taking off. “It’s alright girl, it’s alright, we’re almost there, almost there”It’s very clear that his words and actions are barely keeping the strider in check.
After it’s clear that his big friend is alright and the tensions have eased, Merkas jokes “Geez, Hastos, you gotta be so loud? You scared Barkly something fierce, I think you owe her an apology.”Then cautious look in his eyes tells you he’s really just trying lighten the mood some so the crew doesn’t start attacking each other.
The crystals are so clearly magical that Merkas starts looking for smaller ones he can collect for research and crafting later. (Arcana:5, Perception: 14) “Well if this is all concentrated magical energy, makes sense that all that chaos is out there. I bet nature don’t know what to do with itself”
Barkly settles back into order, but she's much jumpier than usual, and clearly doesn't like being here. Dutifully, she allows Merkas and Buckeron to be carried by her. "Death awaits us in the sky. But I trust you, Blue Spark." she says to Merkas, in a language only Merkas can understand.
The air inside the cavern crackles with electric energy, but you're safe from the lightning storm within its mouth.
Dungeon map pending, but I have some important phone calls to make.
Buckeran bolts towards Hastos. "Hastos, by the gods! Are you alright?!"
Hastos stares blinkingly at Buckeran. “….owwww.” He manages, much louder than he intended to.
Merkas jokes “Geez, Hastos, you gotta be so loud? You scared Barkly something fierce, I think you owe her an apology.”
Hastos’ eyes fix on Merkas. His face stairs at him uncomprehendingly. He smiles weekly, although he doesn’t understand what he said. The world is muffled, and their voices muted. Sera brushes to his side and murmurs something, her voice unintelligible, but her tone is compassionate. She’s worried. The pain sets in for only a moment before he feels her gentle touch and a soothing energy courses through his body. The sounds around him sharpen and his burning skin returns to normal.
” Thank you, Sera.” He says as he place his hand on top of hers and gives her a warm smile.
He returns to his feet and they enter the mouth of the cave. It probably would’ve had more impact had he not been just struck by lightning, but the site before him was wondrous nonetheless.
Buckeran pats Hastos on the back sympathetically. "Oh yes! That reminds me..."
He steps just outside the cavern and sets down his little totem of his house. "Home sweet home!" The dollhouse grows and expanse into a towering mansion again.
"There... once we find the treasure, we need only place my portable hole and dump the treasure into it. It will appear in my vault in the manor! And... with some luck, the manor will bar larger predators from entering the lair from behind us!"
Orr seems enthralled by the crystals. "Like the stars..." Something about Orr the Unseen and starlight always gets them in this mood. You all gaze at your quest ahead. The cavern is vast... with an intimidating entryway.
Buckeran sifts through his book of lore. "The main entrance should be the safest, if there are indeed no dragons. Smaller entrances may exist for servants and offerings, but they're be riddled with traps and puzzles. Still, I urge caution with where you step. Blue dragons are burrowers. So massive, scraped out natural stone formations will likely be where a dragon was meant to tread. Masonwork will be highly suspect. Anything that seems to be carved out for humanoid usage should be approached with extreme caution." He looks up from his text and snaps the book shut. There is a twinkle in his eye that suggests his mischievous youth.
"It's been a harrowing journey, but I must admit, I can barely contain my excitement! Who knows what wonders and dangers lie in wait? I feel 30 years younger!" He nearly claps his hands giddily, but decides better for it. Such noises would echo of the chamber and reveal their approach to any waiting monsters.
This map is pretty big. If your character tiles are too dificult to discern, let me know, and I'll color code them. The current marching order is:
Front Guard: Hastos and Sera Middle Guard: Orr the Unseen Rear Guard: Barkly, Buckeran, Merkas
The chamber is high and wide enough that Barkly can easily carry a mount. Anyone mounted on Barkly will use her speed. You'll use her stats for STR/DEX based saves and checks as well.
Hastos enters with Sera at his side. It was nice to have her beside him, he thought. Weapons at the ready, they start in. Hastos reaches out to see if he notices any danger. (Perception: 14)
Sera walk with Hastos after getting her javelin of lightning back. . " with such a monster infested outside...you belive no monster moved in this free space...so many beings outside. You belive Buckeran? Stay close to me...my shield can block any breathweapon or spell damage" Sera have no hope this go smooth. And go shoulder to shoulder with Hastos. " Paladine guide us" she mutters... and cast guidance to observe close the surroundings for clues, traps or an ambush.
( gets a shitty 4 on perseption with guidance. Hastos smexy ass disrupts again)
"Let us summon some aid first". She take up her deck of illusions. It got around 20 cards left. And toss the card up ahead. She pull Jack of harts and a wild looking Druid appears. Sera smile and decide it go up ahed like carefree and fearless druid looking at pebbles and smelling the dirt every 30 feet. Whistling a happy tune.
"Wooooooowwwwwwww!" The druid gasps as she examines the stunning structure she just materialized in. "Such dazzling beauty!"
She's a filthy thing... with matted hair and dirt smudged bronzed skin that only enhance her piercing sapphire eyes. Her layers of linens and pelts conceal her frame. Bones and horns jut out from under her cloak like a bipedal porcupine, a harsh contrast to her soft, embroidered elvish boots that do not echo or even make a sound in the amphitheatre of light. Based on her accent, you believe her to be a half-elf. Large hoops of earrings jut out from the frenzied and frayed dreadlocks like dreamcatchers caught in a spiderweb. She bounces along jubilantly, from crystal to crystal, identifying the formations and whistling at them to check their resonance. Chittering sounds scatter from her every movement. The place is crawling with tiny insectoids and arachnids.
She gets down on the ground and sniffs the dirt... then gives it a lick! "MMM! Quasicrystals! Oh! and fugulites! Shouldn't lick those. But these quasicrystals are yummy!" She jolts to a stand, looking nervous, then pulls out a cloth mask and ties it around her face. "Mustn't breathe the dust! That's how you get sick." She continues skipping along the crystal formations, like she's found the perfect playground... but then her movements become more subdued, as she goes deeper into the cavern entrance. She's starting to look nervous. She emits a strange clicking sound from her mouth and waits quietly.
Hastos point s out to the group the small insectoid creatures scurrying about the place, and that given their coloring, and biology, wouldn’t be surprised if they were poisonous. While not openly hostile, they’ll likely need to keep an eye on their supplies and backpacks, etc.
He also examines the cave floor and points out the droppings he detects. Made from the crushed chiton and compacted remains of other creatures, it’s a clear indicator that something larger inhabits and hunts in the caves.
Pulling his shirt up over his nose Merkas nods along at Hastos, “Yeah, and watch out for them crystal golems too, this place seems to want to give life to things. Wonder what the druid smelled to make them cover their face, the poop maybe? At least the life stuff means there’s no undead stuff here, right?”
He guides Barkly along to keep pace with the others, when he pipes up again, “Hey Sera, that demon guy you told not worry, you think he could check thus place over for us, ooh or the efreet bottle I got, lemme just dig it out!” With the strider following the others, Merkas starts looking through his things
From the walls of the crystal cavern, a large caterpillar-like monstrosity emerges, with rows of razer-sharp teeth that drip with a clear ichor. Around its mouth, tentacles wriggle and writhe.
The druid continues her clicking sounds, and doesn't back down. But she does crouch a bit, as if every sinew in her body is tensed to leap aside should the situation grow more hostile.
Based on Sera's implied intent, the druid doesn't appear to even know Dawnbound is nearby. She's at first distracted by the beauty all around her, and now distracted by a creature that could presumably bite her in half with a single attack.
Her clicking and clacking crescedoes to a trill, and she reaches into her pack to produce a coney. The caterpillar-like creature seems very interested in this turn of events, and its tentacles squirm with excitement.
The druid is communicating with the creature. For now, it does not seem hostile. Goodness knows what will happen if the thing attempts to eat an illusiory coney though.
"Tana!" Sera calls out. "we probably can aid you in your quest for getting rid of that dragon..but we have something important to do first" She looks at the others. She not speak for them but getting distracted from the set goal was not something she liked.
She also noticed with a bit of worry that the poison gas was slowly seeping back. They had not much time to stand chit chat
Tell us the location of the Blue dragon cave and we meet you at a location nearby. And together we might have a better chance" the offer was there...would she take it?
Tana stops in her lumbering path to look back at the fearsome cleric with no small amount of confusion. Humans hunt ogres. Ogres eat humans. It's a tradition as old as time. Clerics and Paladins were easily the worst when it came to relationships with ogres. You can see confusion turn to worry and distrust. Her own life, she'd risk trusting humans... but her kids? And what if these humans were no different than the soldiers that sent a dragon to her cave? Would they use her to kill the dragon and then turn on her. No. The risk was too great. With a grumpy scowl and a huff, she turns back around and continues her march.
"Air get stinky soon. Come."
Her path leads you through the absolute worst terrain you've ever seen. The greenish yellow scorched clouds above crackle and rumble as if any second it were going to rain, but never a drop falls. While you'd think the overcast would provide some measure of cover from the unbearable heat, it turns the area into a sauna. Your lips are chapped and crusted with salty dust. Flesh turns red and blistered in the heat, and each step feels like your wading through a bog of steaming water, weighing down your limbs. Even blinking hurts, and you realize your eyes are sunburnt from the intense radiation. Tana shows a slack in her formidable resilience and has slowed her steps... drenched in salty sweat, and huffing raspily with dried, irritated lungs. At least now she's easier to keep up with.
The poisonous vapors caught up to you a while ago, and the effects are starting to take hold. Orr the Unseen cast Fly on Buckeran so he can keep track of the mapping from a safe height. But it does little to block the heat. So, Buckeran tucks into his mansion for a moment to grab his parasol before you continue on. Seeing him buzz about overhead with a brown and gold parasol like a tiny Mary Poppins adds a much-needed bit of levity to the otherwise grim march. Thanks to his vantage point, he's able to warn the group of impending monsters, and deeper plumes of noxious gas. But Tana seems unimpressed by the information. She appears to know where to turn about the same time Buckeran does.
Please roll CON vs Heat: DC 15
- Orr the Unseen Fails their save: Level 1 Exhaustion.
- Tana fails her save: Level 1 Exhaustion.
- Buckeran Fails his save: 1 HP Heat Damage
Please roll CON vs Poison: DC 13
- Orr the Unseen Succeeds their save.
- Buckeran Fails their save: Poisoned Condition
- Tana Fails their save: Poisoned Condition
- Cruch Fails their save: Poisoned Condition
- Munch Fails their save: Poisoned Condition
- Barkly Fails their save: Poisoned Condition
The final stretch is the worst. Lightning crashes and smites the ground, opening up cracks in the earth that spew searing, noxious vapors, and Buckeran gets a little nervous about being up there. His spell starts to fade just before a new crag presents itself. The earth splits open and a vent catches his parasol, shooting him up into the air like a firecracker! He barely manages to hang on to the ride before slowly drifting back down to the ground. Shaken and relieved to still be alive, he laughs nervously and scurries towards the relative safety of Barkly.
"That was, haha... quite a -urp- ride!" His heavy breathing causes Buckeran to inhale the vapors, and he promplty coughs out a ragged cough before finishing his climb atop the sickly looking Giant Strider. "uggggghhh..." he bellows and wipes the sweat from his brow. "Heading south will get us around this hotbed the quickest, I think."
Tana nods and diverts the party. Bizarre looking insectoids crawl forth from the crags, but they show more interest in scurrying away from the party than attacking. It doesn't stop Munch and Crunch from bounding towards the prospective treats and attempting to indulge in a snack. They each catch one, and rip at them with their razer teeth before swallwing deeply. But the poison in their stomachs prevent them from keeping the masticated monsters down, and they vomit up a grotesque pus-drenched mess of limbs and tails. Tana looks concerned for het pets, and scratches them behind the ears before trudging on.
It's about a 10 minute diversion around the newly formed crag. But once you put the noxious plumes of it behind you, the air starts to clear a bit. Gradually the deadly hellscape dissolves into a barren wasteland... practically an oasis by comparison. The clouds are thinner here, and the sun glares angrily down on you. But here, there is scattered vegetation, and haggard wildlife. You find a sun-bleached, leafless tree that offers meager shade, and Tana plops down heavily at its trunk. Crunch curls up next to her, whimpering, while Munch scratches at the root system, burrowing for water. Within a few minutes, Munch is successful and a muddy trickle oozes forth from the sand. Munch, Crunch, and Tana take turns burying their faces in the hole to lap up the wet ooze. Then they sit together in a pile and catch their breaths. By all appearances, you seem to be out of the hellscape.
Buckeran consults his map. "If I'm reading this correctly, we're not too far from our destination. We're a bit north and west of it." He shields his eyes from the sun with his hand to look at the horizon, and spots storm clouds to the southeast. "There... We could be there in less than an hour at a leisurely pace."
Orr follows Buckeran's gaze with heavy-lidded eyes. Orr looks like they could collapse at any moment, but they stand, wobbly yet resolute, ready to continue the march.
One hour of clean air is enough to reduce one level of Poison.
- If you have the Poisoned condition, but aren't taking Poison damage yet, you'll be free of the Poisoned condition by the time you make it to the lair.
- If you are taking Poison damage, you stop taking damage by the time you make it to the lair, but will have the Poisoned condition.
One hour out of the hellscape isn't enough to alleviate any Exhaustion you gain from Heat environment, because it's still deadly hot.
- If you are taking heat damage (1d6) from over-exposure you'll stop taking heat damage by the time you make it to the lair.
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My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
(Con save heat: 15, Con Save poison:17)
Merkas plods along on Barkly offering to give Orr a ride when Buckeran takes to the skies. “Hey Orr, it might not be your style but been thinking that this cloak might be better for you than me, we get a chance to rest I’ll give it to you”
“Oh not you too, Barkly?” The kender strokes the striders neck when he feels her steps falter as the toxic odours return. “Don’t worry, we shouldn’t be here very much longer”
The blast that takes Buckeran into the upper atmosphere would have been funny if it wasn’t for the dire situation they were in. Merkas sighs audibly as the elder kender is within sight again and safely on the ground. “Bucky, my friend, maybe we should leave flying to the birds”
Once at the rest spot Merkas checks over Barkly noticing that, other than the gasses getting to her, she’s doing alright he joins Buckeran around the map.
“That storm doesn’t look good, is it there all the time?” Glancing at the map again and then looking around their respite. “Maybe we all take break here for an hour or so just to clear everyones lungs?”
(Suggesting a short rest here, also give a chance yo trade some attuned items. Offering the Cloak of Protection to Orr so Merkas can free up an attuning slot for his daggers and maybe a certain powerful book…..)
Loyalty Begets Honour
( Sera fail both saves)
Following out of this hellish landscape and glad Buckeran did not completely flyed off Sera choff and slumb to the ground " okay...finally out. if that was the easy and best way ? i take my chanses on going around back."
Merkas suggestion of taking a break is good for her. Even she feel the sickening effect of the gases now. The others must feel terrible. But it is still very hot. Lingering around here is painfully warm. "Wait..let me at least try help some agaisnt the heat...how about a refreshing shower?"
marking a area about 30 feet big she picks up some sand and take a few drops of water.."Paladine...show one sweaty subject and a whole bunch of other stinking friends some fresh water" and she gestures to the air and feel a down pour of refreshing water hits her and anyone willing to take a shower.
(cast create water as rain. it at least feels good even it might not be enough vs the heat. Up to the DM)
(Con Save : 21 (used Heroic Inspiration), 20)
Hastos begins to feel the heat take hold, but he digs deep and shrugs it off. His friends need him to be strong. As the clouds begin to curl back around them, he tightens the cloak around his mouth which seems to stave off the worst of the poison.
His team doesn’t seem to be weathering the elements as well as he, but they soon make it beyond the gasses and to a sparse rest area. Hastos takes his water skin out and takes a small mouthful. Swishes it around his mouth and a quick gargle. He spits out the oddly colored water. “Don’t want that stuff in your stomach. Was bad enough in our lungs.” He then takes a decent drink of water from his water skin and replaces back into position at his side. He scans the surrounding area and horizon for any sign that they might not be alone. (Perception:18).
He walks to each of the team and checks on them to see if they need anything, spending a little more time with Sera than the others.
Lastly, he summons strength from within and begins to feel the damage from the heat and poison melt away. (Second Wind: +17)
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Buckeran, sickly and sweating as he is, accepts the cloak with a meager smile. "That is very -hurk- generous of you, my lad. I will cherish it for years to come -hack hack-" Then he slumps to the ground next to Barkly, using her as a pillow and shade, in hopes that his stomach will settle from the heat and poison.
Tana and her pets perk up at the sight of the downpour. She crawls out from under the sparse shade of the leafless tree and stands upright, head to the sky, mouth open, like a statue. After she's had her fill, she gargles the water and spits on herself... making a rather crass spit-bath of it. Munch and Crunch crawl out into the rain and lap at the puddles that form. They don't have their typically boundless energy thanks to the poisoning, but they do seem to be in better spirits. Their pitiful whining has become more faint and less frequent.
I'll grant the party another save vs Heat. Failure doesn't cause heat damage or exhaustion.
Buckeran will fail their save vs. Heat
Orr the Unseen will fail their save vs. Heat
Tana will succeed their save vs. Heat
Orr sits crosslegged in the rain, eyes closed, and lets the cooling bath wash over them peacefully. The rough trek through was a harrowing challenge for Orr. A chance to rest and recover in the soothing downpour was more than they could've hoped for. They don't seem to be in any mood to talk, let alone move. The usually stoic orc just shuts down. Their breath slows to the point that they almost look like they've fallen asleep.
After Tana finishes her bath, she plops down next to her pets and scratches their ears. They let out a low rumble and their eyes close almost completely at the soothing touch. "Storm blows always. Bad magic. Little squishies should not go there. There are many monsters in the storm."
Orr expends 3 HD during Short Rest: 6+6+7 (Orr the Unseen still looks rough, but they do seem healthier after their meditation.)
Tana expends 3 HD during Short Rest: 11+4+13 (Tana is back to her old self, except for the Poisoned and Exhaustion conditions.)
She/her, DM and Player.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
Merkas pulls Barkly off to the side to give the others some reprieve from the heat. “Here girl, have some heat would you” As he speaks a small bonfire erupts below the giant strider. “This magic thing is starting to feel more normal, not sure if I like that, but maybe my sister can help me under It better, whatcha think?”
Letting the strider soak up the heat Merkas sits with the others as he spins his sisters dagger, Splinter, around while he slows his breathing and focuses on resting
(Short rest: 3 hd for a total 10 healing to Merkas, Fire to heal Barkly: +10 hp per round, Barkly is full health, remove attuned cloak of protection and gives it to Orr, and attune to His daggers, Receive Sorcery points back from the bloodvial+1)
“So the storm is always there huh? Guess that means we go from hot and dry to cold and wet, who knew the weather around here would change so quickly”
Loyalty Begets Honour
Orr accepts the cloak graciously and spends some time attuning to it. "I prefer to bask in the light of the stars and sun, but perhaps a bit of shelter from the withering sky is a wise choice." Case in point, Orr the Unseen's skin looks notably red and blistered from the heat. Though they are made of stern orc constitution, the glaring sun of this desolation has begun to wear down Orr's natural defenses.
Orr the Unseen attunes to Cloak of Protection.
Tana laughs. It's not a raucous, bawdy laugh. More a dry, cynical one. "Not that rain. When rain falls... it burns. The lighting burns the dirt. And the sky rolls and twists like giant air elemental. Tana no go there. It cursed."
After Tana feels rested enough from the much needed downpour, she stretches her massive body and scratches herself. Then, as if there was no need to explain herself, she starts stomping away into the wilderness. Munch and Crunch take up her pace beside her, panting happily as they lope towards the dusty horizon. She's notably not heading back into the hellscape just yet. And based on the evidence that she carries no supplies on her, it's presumable that she lives off the land, and probably knows of this area because that's her hunting ground.
Once you're all rested and attuned, the mission calls. When you get closer, you see what Tana meant. This is no storm-drenched oasis you see before you, but a desolate, harrowing place seemingly abandoned by the gods... even moreso than the rest of Krynn. Lightning smites the earth, sending eruptions of rocky debris in every direction. The storm clouds, black and blue like a bruise in the sky, roil overhead, stingily witholding it's rain. And while no poison fumes waft towards you, the air smells burnt and acrid. Magic here has gone completely awry. Horrifying mutated insectoid creatures scurry from shelter to shelter as they hunt carrion. Barkly seems skittish in this region, and she wasn't terribly bothered by the hellscape, which at least brought her the comfort of the heat vents.
Although it's still uncomfortably sultry here, the heat is not as bad. Instead the air is filled with a static charge that frizzes your hair and makes your skin itch. The closer you get, the more crystal formations you find where the lightning heated the sand so hot and rapidly that it reforming into briliant prismatic cascades, that send pirouetting rainbows of light across the wilderness.
Luck check to not get struck by lightning:
- Sera (high risk) is safe
- Merkas is safe
- Hastos (high risk) is at risk: roll DEX save to dodge the blast (DC 13), 15 damage, Lightning.
- Buckeran is safe
- Barkly is safe
- Orr the Unseen is safe
Hrothbert_Neruca, please roll a Handle Animal check to keep Barkly calm. DC 7
High risk if you're tall or wearing significant amounts of metal. There's no half damage on success. A succesful save is completely successful.
Upon arrival of the cave, the sight is breathtaking. Massive crystal structures, like shining prismatic monuments, jut out of the ground and dazzle the main entryway with a myriad of brilliant colors. The light sprinkles the cave so well, you don't even need torchlight to see.
Inside the cave structure, you have dim light.
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My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
Hastos mind turns inwards as the group continues toward the cave. Lost in thought, he doesn’t notice the hairs on the back of his neck start to raise.
Suddenly, his eye dart up to the group. “Wait a minute. Do you guys realize that-“
BOOOM! A bolt of lightening comes crashing down, attracted by the adamantine armor. The bolt of lightning was instantaneous, hits hard, and sends a shockwave of sound and debris of sand and crystal through the group. In a blink it’s all over, just motes of dust swirling about the group, small pieces of rock falling randomly from the sky. As everyone’s eyes adjust (their ears still humming), they see Hastos crumpled to his knees on the ground, a small, darkened smoulding pit on his left pauldron still has an ember of red at its center.
He looks up slowly to the group, his eyes unfocused and uncomprehending. His lips move in an uncoordinated fashion as he manages to force out “..daFuq ?”
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Lightning flashed and struck all around them. By sheer fortune, Sera was untouched—but Hastos was not.
She rushed to him as he dropped to one knee, smoke still curling from scorched armor and skin. “What a terrible mission,” she muttered sharply. “This was evaluated as medium hard?” She shot Buckeran a scowl. The librarian clearly had no idea what he was talking about.
She knelt before Hastos at once. “Please—no protests,” she said firmly as she laid her hands against his burned cheek and chin. She cared for him. The rude ogre could wait—Hastos mattered
“Paladine… restore him… please.”
A faint sparkle of divine light shimmered between her palms. Warmth spread, and the worst of his wounds faded beneath her touch.
( cast cure light wounds 2nd level. Cures Hastos for 9 hp. )
Satisfied, Sera helped him back to his feet and stayed close as they moved onward, until the path opened into a cave filled with beautiful bluish crystals. The sight stole her breath.
“Wow…” she murmured softly.
Then her expression hardened with caution. “So… this lair is abandoned?” she asked aloud, glancing toward Buckeran. After everything so far, his intelligence had proven… unreliable.
(Animal handling:7, rolled a 1 but rerolled due to Lucky trait)
The lightning flashes, the boom coming as quick as the flash, and Barkly nearly bolts headlong away from the fighter. Her sudden jump knocks Markas from her back, the kender dangling from the reigns as he starts soothing and calming her to keep her from taking off. “It’s alright girl, it’s alright, we’re almost there, almost there” It’s very clear that his words and actions are barely keeping the strider in check.
After it’s clear that his big friend is alright and the tensions have eased, Merkas jokes “Geez, Hastos, you gotta be so loud? You scared Barkly something fierce, I think you owe her an apology.” Then cautious look in his eyes tells you he’s really just trying lighten the mood some so the crew doesn’t start attacking each other.
The crystals are so clearly magical that Merkas starts looking for smaller ones he can collect for research and crafting later. (Arcana:5, Perception: 14) “Well if this is all concentrated magical energy, makes sense that all that chaos is out there. I bet nature don’t know what to do with itself”
Loyalty Begets Honour
Buckeran bolts towards Hastos. "Hastos, by the gods! Are you alright?!"
Buckeran, who's eyes are still cast skyward in aprehension of potential lightning, snaps his gaze to Sera when she asks her skeptical question. "Well... as far as we know. We've never been able to send a team out to investigate. But all the signs would suggest that either the blue dragons in this den have either died or abandoned it." He gestures towards the sky. "Dragons, in spite of the implied threat they present, are an important part of a magical ecosystem. When one dies or abandons their lair, things get..." again he waves his hand vaguely towards the sky, "weird, for lack of a better word. But that doesn't necessarily mean a dragon's lair that has been abandoned would be empty. There are creatures who would thrive in a place such as this. Elementals, like the one we fought with our ogre friend, guard these lairs... even when they become tombs. The worst case scenario is that the dragons are still dead inside this cavern. It could take centuries, but eventually, the really powerful ones could become dracoliches. The magical curse from a creature such as that could plague a region for a millenia, even after it's slain... assuming a hero strong enough exists to kill it again."
Orr the Unseen blinks and looks at their lightning spear. "I'm not sure such a weapon will serve me in this den. Perhaps it can be used as a defense weapon. If you prefer, Sera, you may redistribute this weapon."
When using the Dodge Action with the Lightning Spear, I'm going to grant the weilder Resistance against Lightning Damage.
Barkly settles back into order, but she's much jumpier than usual, and clearly doesn't like being here. Dutifully, she allows Merkas and Buckeron to be carried by her. "Death awaits us in the sky. But I trust you, Blue Spark." she says to Merkas, in a language only Merkas can understand.
The air inside the cavern crackles with electric energy, but you're safe from the lightning storm within its mouth.
Dungeon map pending, but I have some important phone calls to make.
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My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
Hastos stares blinkingly at Buckeran. “….owwww.” He manages, much louder than he intended to.
Hastos’ eyes fix on Merkas. His face stairs at him uncomprehendingly. He smiles weekly, although he doesn’t understand what he said. The world is muffled, and their voices muted. Sera brushes to his side and murmurs something, her voice unintelligible, but her tone is compassionate. She’s worried. The pain sets in for only a moment before he feels her gentle touch and a soothing energy courses through his body. The sounds around him sharpen and his burning skin returns to normal.
” Thank you, Sera.” He says as he place his hand on top of hers and gives her a warm smile.
He returns to his feet and they enter the mouth of the cave. It probably would’ve had more impact had he not been just struck by lightning, but the site before him was wondrous nonetheless.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Buckeran pats Hastos on the back sympathetically. "Oh yes! That reminds me..."
He steps just outside the cavern and sets down his little totem of his house. "Home sweet home!" The dollhouse grows and expanse into a towering mansion again.
"There... once we find the treasure, we need only place my portable hole and dump the treasure into it. It will appear in my vault in the manor! And... with some luck, the manor will bar larger predators from entering the lair from behind us!"
Orr seems enthralled by the crystals. "Like the stars..." Something about Orr the Unseen and starlight always gets them in this mood. You all gaze at your quest ahead. The cavern is vast... with an intimidating entryway.
Buckeran sifts through his book of lore. "The main entrance should be the safest, if there are indeed no dragons. Smaller entrances may exist for servants and offerings, but they're be riddled with traps and puzzles. Still, I urge caution with where you step. Blue dragons are burrowers. So massive, scraped out natural stone formations will likely be where a dragon was meant to tread. Masonwork will be highly suspect. Anything that seems to be carved out for humanoid usage should be approached with extreme caution." He looks up from his text and snaps the book shut. There is a twinkle in his eye that suggests his mischievous youth.
"It's been a harrowing journey, but I must admit, I can barely contain my excitement! Who knows what wonders and dangers lie in wait? I feel 30 years younger!" He nearly claps his hands giddily, but decides better for it. Such noises would echo of the chamber and reveal their approach to any waiting monsters.
This map is pretty big. If your character tiles are too dificult to discern, let me know, and I'll color code them. The current marching order is:
Front Guard: Hastos and Sera
Middle Guard: Orr the Unseen
Rear Guard: Barkly, Buckeran, Merkas
The chamber is high and wide enough that Barkly can easily carry a mount. Anyone mounted on Barkly will use her speed. You'll use her stats for STR/DEX based saves and checks as well.
She/her, DM and Player.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
Hastos enters with Sera at his side. It was nice to have her beside him, he thought. Weapons at the ready, they start in. Hastos reaches out to see if he notices any danger. (Perception: 14)
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Sera walk with Hastos after getting her javelin of lightning back. . " with such a monster infested outside...you belive no monster moved in this free space...so many beings outside. You belive Buckeran? Stay close to me...my shield can block any breathweapon or spell damage" Sera have no hope this go smooth. And go shoulder to shoulder with Hastos. " Paladine guide us" she mutters... and cast guidance to observe close the surroundings for clues, traps or an ambush.
( gets a shitty 4 on perseption with guidance. Hastos smexy ass disrupts again)
"Let us summon some aid first". She take up her deck of illusions. It got around 20 cards left. And toss the card up ahead. She pull Jack of harts and a wild looking Druid appears. Sera smile and decide it go up ahed like carefree and fearless druid looking at pebbles and smelling the dirt every 30 feet. Whistling a happy tune.
"Wooooooowwwwwwww!" The druid gasps as she examines the stunning structure she just materialized in. "Such dazzling beauty!"
She's a filthy thing... with matted hair and dirt smudged bronzed skin that only enhance her piercing sapphire eyes. Her layers of linens and pelts conceal her frame. Bones and horns jut out from under her cloak like a bipedal porcupine, a harsh contrast to her soft, embroidered elvish boots that do not echo or even make a sound in the amphitheatre of light. Based on her accent, you believe her to be a half-elf. Large hoops of earrings jut out from the frenzied and frayed dreadlocks like dreamcatchers caught in a spiderweb. She bounces along jubilantly, from crystal to crystal, identifying the formations and whistling at them to check their resonance. Chittering sounds scatter from her every movement. The place is crawling with tiny insectoids and arachnids.
She gets down on the ground and sniffs the dirt... then gives it a lick! "MMM! Quasicrystals! Oh! and fugulites! Shouldn't lick those. But these quasicrystals are yummy!" She jolts to a stand, looking nervous, then pulls out a cloth mask and ties it around her face. "Mustn't breathe the dust! That's how you get sick." She continues skipping along the crystal formations, like she's found the perfect playground... but then her movements become more subdued, as she goes deeper into the cavern entrance. She's starting to look nervous. She emits a strange clicking sound from her mouth and waits quietly.
She/her, DM and Player.
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My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
Hastos point s out to the group the small insectoid creatures scurrying about the place, and that given their coloring, and biology, wouldn’t be surprised if they were poisonous. While not openly hostile, they’ll likely need to keep an eye on their supplies and backpacks, etc.
He also examines the cave floor and points out the droppings he detects. Made from the crushed chiton and compacted remains of other creatures, it’s a clear indicator that something larger inhabits and hunts in the caves.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Pulling his shirt up over his nose Merkas nods along at Hastos, “Yeah, and watch out for them crystal golems too, this place seems to want to give life to things. Wonder what the druid smelled to make them cover their face, the poop maybe? At least the life stuff means there’s no undead stuff here, right?”
He guides Barkly along to keep pace with the others, when he pipes up again, “Hey Sera, that demon guy you told not worry, you think he could check thus place over for us, ooh or the efreet bottle I got, lemme just dig it out!”
With the strider following the others, Merkas starts looking through his things
Loyalty Begets Honour
From the walls of the crystal cavern, a large caterpillar-like monstrosity emerges, with rows of razer-sharp teeth that drip with a clear ichor. Around its mouth, tentacles wriggle and writhe.
The druid continues her clicking sounds, and doesn't back down. But she does crouch a bit, as if every sinew in her body is tensed to leap aside should the situation grow more hostile.
Based on Sera's implied intent, the druid doesn't appear to even know Dawnbound is nearby. She's at first distracted by the beauty all around her, and now distracted by a creature that could presumably bite her in half with a single attack.
Her clicking and clacking crescedoes to a trill, and she reaches into her pack to produce a coney. The caterpillar-like creature seems very interested in this turn of events, and its tentacles squirm with excitement.
The druid is communicating with the creature. For now, it does not seem hostile. Goodness knows what will happen if the thing attempts to eat an illusiory coney though.
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My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk