Gremryl spins Stella up to an angry flurry and brings her down hard right through the Jelly, sending a hefty chunk of it flying into the side of the cave wall. Casting Divine Smite upon successfully landing his attack, the Jelly feels the additional sting of Gremryl's righteousness.
Elmo, having prepared his attack and now seizing his opportunity to strike in stealth, lands his crossbow bolt deep into the Jelly's...ummm...abdomen section? body. The Jelly writhes in pain at the onslaught and you almost feel sorry for it as it appears to have no higher thought function other than to eat and survive. Clearly, it has made a fatal mistake in thinking you all were prey that it could take on. You watch as the Jelly deflates and shrinks to a small puddle of ooze on the cavern floor. You see a few gems from prey that was less fortunate than you were today. (3 Precious Gemstones)
Shuushar - "I've not seen such combat prowess! Your teamwork is truly coming together. My home is not much further. We can proceed a little further to a safe area then we'll reach my home once we set out again. Thank you for taking me this far. I will ensure my people's aid is bestowed upon you when we arrive at the Sea Mother's shrine where the priestess lives."
Congratulations! You've successfully navigated the first leg of your journey through the Underdark! Tomorrow (game time) you will reach the KuoToa village, but for now, take a long rest, gather your strength, and set your character level to 4! You've earned it. Once you're finished setting your character, please post or text and I'll update your Fantasy Grounds character.
Since you've already decided to make camp here, and it doesn't appear as though you'll be attacked by any more Jellies, you all lay down and reflect upon your journey together thus far. Individually, you take note of how you've grown in power and learned new spells and acquired new tricks to better prepare you for greater dangers ahead. Then one of your companions speaks.
Shuushar - "Everyone, tomorrow we arrive at my home of Sloobludop. I am grateful for you all. Now that we've all but arrived, there are things that you must know about the people and our way of life so as not to create altercation where none should take place. There are also things about the Darklake that you should know. Once you've gathered your strength and are ready to continue on your path to the surface, you will have to traverse the Darklake to reach your next destination of Neverlight Grove."
"First, I'll start with the Darklake. Though its name might evoke images of a single subterranean body of water, the Darklake is actually a network of underground rivers, natural tunnels, and canals that connect innumerable water-filled caverns and chambers. This vase waterway stretches over a hundred miles across, with ceilings that are miles high in some places and depths that are unfathomable, even to us creatures of the water."
"Long ago, duerger engineers extended and widened many of the interconnecting passages of the Darklake. They also constructed locks for raising and lowering watercraft to different levels within it, opening up large portions of the network for travel. We Kuo-toa are known as expert guides for those wishing travel through across the Darklake. Many brave, but poor souls have lost their ways and their lives attempting to traverse the Darklake alone."
"Now, for my village. Sloobludop spreads out along the rocky shore of the waters of a broad cavern lake, with high fences of woven netting to the North and South of the village boundaries. It is almost completely dark except for a few spots of dim light from phosphorescent fungus and coral, or from glowing cave-fish glands. You'll notice we have connected our buildings with bridges and platforms, however, I don't expect we would be crossing them and that's for the best as they're somewhat difficult to navigate safely. Within the village, you'll be able to find a boat and possibly procure safe-passage for coin to Neverlight Grove. In my village, you'll find a marketplace to stock up on rations and common supplies."
"There is, however, a growing danger that you should be aware of. You see, we have long been blessed with the Sea Mother's protection. Before I was captured, a small number of Kuo-toa began to believe and worship Leemooggoogoon the Deep Father. Initially, the archpriest of Blipdoolpoolp tolerated this - but then his own daughter declared herself an archpriest of Leemooggoogoo, and the cult began to grow. I fear it has only gotten worse since I've been away. When we arrive, I will ask for an audience with the Archpriest of the Blipdoolpoolp the Sea Mother, Ploopploopeen. She will help you."
"But enough talk. I will take the first watch." He finishes informing you all of what to expect ahead and finds a place to sit and watch for enemies.
You may ask more of Shuushar if you like (or the other 2 NPCs) or you can let me know that you're ready to approach Sloobludop! I'll require all of you to acknowledge your ready before proceeding.
To the PC's in the party: "All right, short folks, looks like everything aint all happy go lucky in this town we are approaching. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD WE GET INVOLVED IN THE POLITICS OF IT ALL!!!! We need to focus on our one and only goal which is to GET TO THE SURFACE WORLD!! This means we should hear both sides out and ally ourselves to whichever group can get us to the next phase of our journey the fastest. I don't care if one faction eats the other after we move on; those crazy zelots can deal with themselves! Also, let me do the talking when it comes to dealing with any authority figures since I am the most persuasive around here.
To Shuushar: I have several questions for you:
1. What's the difference between the two warring factions in your village? More to the point, which faction holds the most power? Which can aid us the most?
2. Any points of etiquette I should be aware of when dealing with higher ups?
3. Are there any natural dangers that we should be aware of?
To the other NPCs: What's your plan for when we hit this town? You sticking with us or going your own way?
"Aye, seems you folks aint so peaceful after all."
Grem would also ask Shuusar:
1. you mentioned Duergar helped build the certain parts of the lake, are there still duergar in the town? When is the last time they were spotted here?
2. has there been any violence?
3. Who runs the boats in the town? which faction?
4. lastly... .where is the Pub!
To Morgana he says
"I'll be nice, but I'll not be allying myself with folks who be doing evil. Make no mistake lass. Moradin doesn't abide those who harm in the name of wickedness. Ye can do the talking, and know i got ye back but i'm not for standing idly by while inncoent are taken advantage of. Lastly, while I travel with ye on this road, remember, my quest be to find those evil who wronged me."
Elmo would like to try and get to know the rest of his party. He wants to strategically befriend Bupido as he doesn't know much about him and want to confirm that his village will be a safe place for Elmo when we arrive.
"Buppido! Hold up boyo! Where did you learn to fight like that? Few of us wee folk command the respect in combat as you have shown yourself capable of. How did those drow shites take you captive? When we get to you village Id like to buy ye a drink and hear the tale! A grand one I bet it be!"
Can Elmo perceive Buppido's class?
At a different moment, Elmo talks with Morgana
"Hey lass, can I talk with you a moment? I know that your are a strong lady of conviction. I also know that your anger and rage is a source of your strength. I simply ask that you try to be more diplomatic with our more offensively disadvantaged traveling companions. If all goes well, we will be relying upon them for shelter, and safety. We need them. Maybe a charm offensive wouldn't be unwise. Just my thoughts.
With that ugliness out of the way, thank you for all you have done. From helping to free me from that spider web, to your abilty to scrap, you and the drwarf have proven yourself to be impressive folk. I may consider letting you both join me on my future adventures (jokingly).
(he elbows Morgana playfully) You're a devil in a scrap, no pun intended. Where did you learn to fight with such rage and skill?
To Grem: Wait...who the hell harmed you? And if they happen to be in this town then, fine, we can make a detour to kill them and then move the **** on. But these people are a bunch of heretics that you can't talk reason to! I say we let them kill themselves and have Morriden sort them all out! They are not good people if they are slaughtering each other in the name of religion so you are not bound to aid them! And if they aren't slaughtering each other then they are gonna be fine and we still have no reason to tarry!
I look forward to drinking with ye at our next stop. Ever been drunk under the table by a halfling? Well prepare yourself friend, and after your loss just remember life is about new experiences and losing with grace (jokinf tone). First round is on me. Ye have bled plenty for old Elmo and the rest of us.
Gremys mulls this over and grudgingly tells morgana ( he sees a fire in her, and respects it.. He also sees.. some good?)
"Mayhaps, I'll tell you and the halflng there what took me upon this road you have found me on over a drink. By combat and blood we are forged and on a path together indeed. I agree with ye that if these villagers be slaughtering themselves in a fight over who's god is better, then they can carry on. A true God doesn't need his followers fighting to see who be better, thats Orc shit... But I won't be standing idly by while innocents get slaughtered Lass, I'm sorry. But we'll start that fire when we cross that forge i always say!
Ho! Elmo, a fine challenge indeed! I am honored to join your merry band! By moradins blessing you are a sneaky, happy lad!"
To Elmo: "For the last time: BUTT **** PACIFISTS WITH A RUSTY RAKE UNTIL YOU CAN SEE IT POPPING OUT OF THEIR MOUTHS!!! You want to know how the **** I got here!? By NOT being a pacifist!! I have been wandering through these mother ******* tunnels, in the dark, by myself, half mad from the shit that warped my mind as a girl because of the ****ed sideways drow!! I had to learn to be hard as nails and kill anything that looked at me sideways!! Anybody that isn't willing to do the same in this god forsaken realm deserves the worst ******* death that the 9 hells can conjure! The underdark is no place for the weak and stupid!!! THAT is why I won't take it easy on the COCK JUGGALING THUNDER **** PACIFISTS!! (flash fries a nearby mushroom for emphasis). But you and the dwarf are all right in my book since you are willing to work as a team to kill things and seem to hate drow as much as I do. I appreciate you trying to be friendly. And I'm with you on helping one side or the other in this next village to gain an advantage. Just know that I'm gonna be on whatever side can help us the most no matter what bat shit crazy god they serve.
To Grem: "Look, you hate the drow as much as I do, and you're willing to work as a team to help me kill them so you are aces in my book. However, just know that if you slow down to molly coddling any weaklings I'll be a mile down the road before the danger snuffs you out. I've got bigger fish to fry.
"aye, bigger fish to fry.. On that we of agreement Lass.. I'm not down here walking the tunnels for fun little one. There's a reason Moradin sent me down here, and by his will I'll be smiting the shit of Drow, duergar, and their evil Kin!
Shuushar replies when asked the following questions by Morgana:
What's the difference between the two warring factions in your village? More to the point, which faction holds the most power? Which can aid us the most?
The difference is quite simply put - One side believes in the protection of the Sea Mother while the other side believes in the Deep Father's power for guidance. As to which side might hold more power...I daresay it may be the Deep Father because of their overly aggressive nature, although I have been gone for a long time and I believe Sea Mother still has many of the elders that still carry faith and favor on her side. With that, I believe the Sea Mother will offer you the most aid in your journey through her benevolence.
Any points of etiquette I should be aware of when dealing with higher-ups?
Nothing that you should be overly cautious about with respect to formalities. When dealing with followers of the Deep Father...well...caution is always the priority.
Are there any natural dangers that we should be aware of?
In the village, you have no need to worry of natural dangers. The Darklake is teething with dangerous creatures...there is the natural danger.
To the other NPCs: What's your plan for when we hit this town? You sticking with us or going your own way?
Shuushar - "I must pray to the Sea Mother for guidance. Only then could I answer that question with any accuracy."
Stool - "Home! Oh no, have you abandoned your will to take me home next?! I'm so scared of being alone! Please, won't you take me home?! It's on the way to Gracklstugh and your surface world!"
Shuushar replies when asked the following questions by Gremryl:
You mentioned Duergar helped build the certain parts of the lake, are there still Duergar in the town? When is the last time they were spotted here?
That was ages ago, friend. There are no more Duerger here that I'm aware of.
Has there been any violence?
There have been altercations between the Sea Mother and Deep Father worshippers. The Drow occasionally raid our village and take captors although it is infrequent. There are also attacks by numerous creatures of the Darklake.
Who runs the boats in the town? which faction?
Local villagers own their own boats and services offered are reasonable for the dangers you'll navigate on the Darklake.
Lastly... .where is the Pub!
Ha! A wonderful question. I'll show you after we speak with the Sea Mother archpriest!
Buppido - "You can take your compliments and shove them up your arse! That said, you and I are more alike than I care to admit."
Privately to Elmo he says,
"When we get to that drinking hole, which if it's around here will probably be some shit place that serves shit ale from shit mushrooms...*sigh*...when we get there, you and I should have more words. You may have just what I'm looking for to pull off the greatest heist of all time in the history of the Underdark."
Buppido goes on to say in a more audible voice, "Now, about how I came to be captured in Velkynvelve? Those ******* Drow bastards ambushed me while I was this close to knocking boots with the sassiest damn Derro I ever did see...Unfortunately for her, she saw the wrong side of a Drow raiding party and that was the end of that. Sliced clean through. Guess it coulda been worse. Not much worse, but knowing those ******* Drow, it coulda been worse than what she got dealt."
(You can't discern what 'class' he is, but judging from his style of attacks, he's very cunning and more 'rogue-like' than anything else.)
Congratulations! You've successfully navigated the first leg of your journey through the Underdark! Tomorrow (game time) you will reach the KuoToa village, but for now, take a long rest, gather your strength, and set your character level to 4! You've earned it. Once you're finished setting your character, please post or text and I'll update your Fantasy Grounds character.
I'll collect the gemstones.
"Did ye Bloody see that!?!?!?!"
“Aye! Dumb jelly was no match for Stella! And holy hells that snow!!”
You may ask more of Shuushar if you like (or the other 2 NPCs) or you can let me know that you're ready to approach Sloobludop! I'll require all of you to acknowledge your ready before proceeding.
To the PC's in the party: "All right, short folks, looks like everything aint all happy go lucky in this town we are approaching. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD WE GET INVOLVED IN THE POLITICS OF IT ALL!!!! We need to focus on our one and only goal which is to GET TO THE SURFACE WORLD!! This means we should hear both sides out and ally ourselves to whichever group can get us to the next phase of our journey the fastest. I don't care if one faction eats the other after we move on; those crazy zelots can deal with themselves! Also, let me do the talking when it comes to dealing with any authority figures since I am the most persuasive around here.
To Shuushar: I have several questions for you:
1. What's the difference between the two warring factions in your village? More to the point, which faction holds the most power? Which can aid us the most?
2. Any points of etiquette I should be aware of when dealing with higher ups?
3. Are there any natural dangers that we should be aware of?
To the other NPCs: What's your plan for when we hit this town? You sticking with us or going your own way?
Gremryl mulls over this information:
"Aye, seems you folks aint so peaceful after all."
Grem would also ask Shuusar:
1. you mentioned Duergar helped build the certain parts of the lake, are there still duergar in the town? When is the last time they were spotted here?
2. has there been any violence?
3. Who runs the boats in the town? which faction?
4. lastly... .where is the Pub!
To Morgana he says
"I'll be nice, but I'll not be allying myself with folks who be doing evil. Make no mistake lass. Moradin doesn't abide those who harm in the name of wickedness. Ye can do the talking, and know i got ye back but i'm not for standing idly by while inncoent are taken advantage of. Lastly, while I travel with ye on this road, remember, my quest be to find those evil who wronged me."
Elmo would like to try and get to know the rest of his party. He wants to strategically befriend Bupido as he doesn't know much about him and want to confirm that his village will be a safe place for Elmo when we arrive.
Can Elmo perceive Buppido's class?
At a different moment, Elmo talks with Morgana
To Grem: Wait...who the hell harmed you? And if they happen to be in this town then, fine, we can make a detour to kill them and then move the **** on. But these people are a bunch of heretics that you can't talk reason to! I say we let them kill themselves and have Morriden sort them all out! They are not good people if they are slaughtering each other in the name of religion so you are not bound to aid them! And if they aren't slaughtering each other then they are gonna be fine and we still have no reason to tarry!
Elmo continues to morgana in his private conversation
To Grem in private conversation while traveling
Gremys mulls this over and grudgingly tells morgana ( he sees a fire in her, and respects it.. He also sees.. some good?)
"Mayhaps, I'll tell you and the halflng there what took me upon this road you have found me on over a drink. By combat and blood we are forged and on a path together indeed. I agree with ye that if these villagers be slaughtering themselves in a fight over who's god is better, then they can carry on. A true God doesn't need his followers fighting to see who be better, thats Orc shit... But I won't be standing idly by while innocents get slaughtered Lass, I'm sorry. But we'll start that fire when we cross that forge i always say!
Ho! Elmo, a fine challenge indeed! I am honored to join your merry band! By moradins blessing you are a sneaky, happy lad!"
To Elmo: "For the last time: BUTT **** PACIFISTS WITH A RUSTY RAKE UNTIL YOU CAN SEE IT POPPING OUT OF THEIR MOUTHS!!! You want to know how the **** I got here!? By NOT being a pacifist!! I have been wandering through these mother ******* tunnels, in the dark, by myself, half mad from the shit that warped my mind as a girl because of the ****ed sideways drow!! I had to learn to be hard as nails and kill anything that looked at me sideways!! Anybody that isn't willing to do the same in this god forsaken realm deserves the worst ******* death that the 9 hells can conjure! The underdark is no place for the weak and stupid!!! THAT is why I won't take it easy on the COCK JUGGALING THUNDER **** PACIFISTS!! (flash fries a nearby mushroom for emphasis). But you and the dwarf are all right in my book since you are willing to work as a team to kill things and seem to hate drow as much as I do. I appreciate you trying to be friendly. And I'm with you on helping one side or the other in this next village to gain an advantage. Just know that I'm gonna be on whatever side can help us the most no matter what bat shit crazy god they serve.
To Grem: "Look, you hate the drow as much as I do, and you're willing to work as a team to help me kill them so you are aces in my book. However, just know that if you slow down to molly coddling any weaklings I'll be a mile down the road before the danger snuffs you out. I've got bigger fish to fry.
"aye, bigger fish to fry.. On that we of agreement Lass.. I'm not down here walking the tunnels for fun little one. There's a reason Moradin sent me down here, and by his will I'll be smiting the shit of Drow, duergar, and their evil Kin!
Shuushar replies when asked the following questions by Morgana:
What's the difference between the two warring factions in your village? More to the point, which faction holds the most power? Which can aid us the most?
The difference is quite simply put - One side believes in the protection of the Sea Mother while the other side believes in the Deep Father's power for guidance. As to which side might hold more power...I daresay it may be the Deep Father because of their overly aggressive nature, although I have been gone for a long time and I believe Sea Mother still has many of the elders that still carry faith and favor on her side. With that, I believe the Sea Mother will offer you the most aid in your journey through her benevolence.
Any points of etiquette I should be aware of when dealing with higher-ups?
Nothing that you should be overly cautious about with respect to formalities. When dealing with followers of the Deep Father...well...caution is always the priority.
Are there any natural dangers that we should be aware of?
In the village, you have no need to worry of natural dangers. The Darklake is teething with dangerous creatures...there is the natural danger.
To the other NPCs: What's your plan for when we hit this town? You sticking with us or going your own way?
Shuushar - "I must pray to the Sea Mother for guidance. Only then could I answer that question with any accuracy."
Stool - "Home! Oh no, have you abandoned your will to take me home next?! I'm so scared of being alone! Please, won't you take me home?! It's on the way to Gracklstugh and your surface world!"
Shuushar replies when asked the following questions by Gremryl:
You mentioned Duergar helped build the certain parts of the lake, are there still Duergar in the town? When is the last time they were spotted here?
That was ages ago, friend. There are no more Duerger here that I'm aware of.
Has there been any violence?
There have been altercations between the Sea Mother and Deep Father worshippers. The Drow occasionally raid our village and take captors although it is infrequent. There are also attacks by numerous creatures of the Darklake.
Who runs the boats in the town? which faction?
Local villagers own their own boats and services offered are reasonable for the dangers you'll navigate on the Darklake.
Lastly... .where is the Pub!
Ha! A wonderful question. I'll show you after we speak with the Sea Mother archpriest!
I think that answers all of my questions. I'm ready to proceed.
Lets rock
(You can't discern what 'class' he is, but judging from his style of attacks, he's very cunning and more 'rogue-like' than anything else.)
Gremryl looks at the wall like its paper thin...
"well... go on and tell them we are here Shuusar. .. "