Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #2 - Dallid's Turn and an Unexpected Arrival
Dallid's Turn
Dallid signals Ferelyon to strike, and the wolf leaps forward to sink his teeth into the closest nachtshreck. The spirit crackles as the wolf's jaws bite into it, but the creature proves to be more resilient than expected, shaking off some of Ferelyon's assault ((resisted)). Not to be deterred, Dallid takes action and brandishes his whip, Bellringer. The whip flies through the air with a sharp crack, but unfortunately, Dallid's aim is awry, and he misses his mark.
Dormark - Before you, a most welcome sight presents itself. The fabric of reality seems to be torn asunder, revealing a wispy grey veil beyond. Through the rip, three figures emerge. First, Galqarin appears, leading a wounded Ioben through the gap, they are then followed close behind by the sinister Rahadin. Though Ioben appears too injured to fight, both Galqarin and Rahadin stand ready to face the nachtshreck. For the moment though, it falls to you to turn the tides of battle, it is your turn.
Rahadin's Initiative: 11
Battlemap:
Initiative:
Nachtschreck (x3) - 22 - Small Blue Shield
Sandu - 20 - Purple Wizard's Hat
*Galqarin - 15 - Dark Blue Raven
Dallid - 12 -Dark Green Bow & Ferelyon - Small Dark Green Shield
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Dormark holding up his mace says, "I will end you foul beings!" Taking a swing at Nachtschrek #3. I fit is a successful hit he will push #3 5ft towards the Eyeball in the middle and move to take the spot #3 was occupying. Otherwise, he moves towards the left 5ft feet to get out of ghost 1's firing range.
Attack: 19 Damage: 9 (I'm assuming these things are undead.)
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #2 - Dormark's Turn
Dormark's Turn
Yelling out his challenge, Dormark brings his mace crashing down at the nearest nachtshreck (#3). Unfortunately, the creature flickers momentarily with bright light, putting off Dormark's aim and narrowly avoiding his attack ((AC 15)). Sidestepping to the left, Dormark inadvertently opens himself up for a strike from the nachtshreck he attempted to waylay.
Mind Bend: Attack: 18, 23
Dormark expertly sidesteps the nachtshreck's attack of opportunity.
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Nachtschrecks' Turns
Nachtschreck #1
Sparing no time, nachtschreck #1 assails Dallid's mind.
Mind Bend: Attack: 17, Damage: 5 (psychic)
Dallid's mind becomes consumed by images of despair and hopelessness, a maelstrom of dark thoughts that distracts him from the battle raging around him.
Nachtschreck #2
Dormark's movement is matched by the relentless nachtshreck #2, which stalks his every step, moving to his immediate north. The crackling energy emanating from the creature's body grows more intense, as if it were drawing power from the air itself. Suddenly, a mighty lightning bolt is unleashed, streaking through the air towards Dormark and Sandu, leaving the outcome of their fate hanging precariously in the balance.
Dormark and Sandu - Please make Dexterity Saving Throws (DC 15)
Lightning Bolt: Damage: 23 lightning (11on a successful save)
Nachtschreck #3
As the new intruders come into view, nachtshreck #3 charges ferociously toward Galqarin, Ioben, and Rahadin. The creature reaches Rahadin, who stares at it with a piercing gaze. Suddenly, the spectre turns a deep red, letting out a spine-chilling wail that resonates with multiple voices. The voices, all coming from the creature, speak of Rahadin's dark deeds, his mercilessness, and his bloodthirsty ways. Overwhelmed by the horror of the screams, the creature halts in its tracks, unable to move for a moment in Rahadin's presence.
Nachtshreck #3's Wisdom Saving Throw: 6
Damage: 16(psychic)
Rahadin's lips curl into a wicked grin, barely flinching at the throbbing pain in his side. "You think you've seen the worst of me, you wretched creature?" he taunts the spectre with a cold, menacing edge to his voice.
Battlemap:
Initiative:
Nachtschreck (x3) - 22 - Small Blue Shield
Sandu - 20 - Purple Wizard's Hat
Galqarin - 15 - Dark Blue Raven
Dallid - 12 -Dark Green Bow & Ferelyon - Small Dark Green Shield
Dex save: 8 (crap, full damage) Concentration save for Protection from Evil and Good on Dormark: 21 (spell still up)
Too much happened too fast for Sandu to properly register. Out of nothing stepped Galqarin into view, the very same they were looking for, and... Wait, was that Ioben with him? What was he doing here? He looked injured, partially relying on Galqarin for support and was in no condition to fight. With everything going on the man would be a sitting duck for the spirits' attacks. Sandu began to move towards Ioben when he noticed two things: Rahadin was also there, adding to the man's noticable talent to show up where and whenever he pleased, and in the corner of his eye, reflected off of Dormark's metal skin, a whitish bright light racing towards him, too fast to dodge...
The lightning struck Sandu in the left shoulder and coursed through his body. Muscles contracted, limbs spasmed and Sandu's insides felt like they were on fire. The lightning dissipated in an instant but it was the longest, most agonising instant he had ever had the displeasure of having. Sandu fell onto one knee. His breath shocked in his throat. His nostrils were assaulted with the smell of burnt cloth and charred flesh. The front of his shoulder was blackened: the cloth had been burned, nay, incinerated and the flesh underneath looked and felt like someone ran a red hot poker through it.
A loud clank distracted Sandu from the wound, in so far as it was possible. Dormark, stalwart Dormark, had falled onto the ground. The lights that normally burned in the warforged eyes had dimmed and to Sandu it looked like they grew fainter with every passing moment. They contrasted the magic Sandu had weaved to protect his friend which still softly glimmered around the warforged's body, making it like someone shone a light upon a suit of armour.
Sandu looked up. The spirit closest had vacated to assault Galqarin and Rahadin. His eyes trailed to the side. There, on the other side of Dormark, floated the second one. Errant arcs of lightning arched across its spectral body before dying out. It was the one that had burned Sandu and downed Dormark. Sandu's rational mind said that he should save his friend or protect him from further harm but that first instinct was drowned out by the primal rage that overruled any other decision. He gritted his teeth, though it was the rage or his jaw muscles cramped shut he could not say, and with a burning hatred in his eyes Sandu raised his arm to blast the specter to kingdome come.
Dormark's metal frame surges with electrical energy as the lightning bolt crashes into him. His eyes faintly dim before switching off, and he crumples to the floor, unconscious.
Dormark:
The darkness engulfs your sight, and as moments tick by, you realize that time has ceased to exist. Your metallic frame crumples, vulnerable before a ghastly, hovering spectre. The nachtshreck weaves terrible visions in your mind, conjuring images of unspeakable horror. You are aware that these fiends are the remnants of those who dared to stand against Strahd, their souls now corrupted by an unyielding thirst for revenge that follows them beyond the grave.
Your mind is filled with more images from your past. A malevolent figure exuding wickedness, a thief with nefarious intent, who stole from you your precious life-giving flame. Now, in your visions, he stands before a monstrous demoness, her limbs elongated and contorted as they make a deal.
"You have the means?" The demoness' voice crawls.
"Aye, all I request is free passage. In return, well let's say that Alano will find that his soul has a companion of sorts. Though, as I am sure you are aware, only one soul should inhabit a vessel at a time. You are certain that this Vauquelin will be able to dominate him?" the cowled man replies, his words dripping with poison. His left arm, bitten off long ago, has been replaced with a ghastly metal construct that glints with unseen power.
With a sickening thud, Maribelle drags Alano's battered and broken body before the conspirators. His face is barely recognisable, distorted by bruises and cuts that ooze with putrid pus. His eyes, once full of life and loyalty, now stare lifelessly at the ground. He moans in agony, a pitiful sound that echoes through the dimly lit chamber, the stench of blood and decay is overwhelming.
"M-mercy! Mistress, please?!" Alano pleads pitifully. "Have I not always been a l-loyal s-servant?"
Wordlessly, the robed thief steps forward, pressing his metal arm upon Alano's head. The butler's pained screams fill the air, but it's to no avail.
"Is it done?"the demoness eagerly asks.
"Why don't you ask our friend,"the betrayer intones.
"Guy? Is that you?" Maribelle asks wearily.
Alano's face twists, his body no longer inhabited by one soul but two. The stronger soul answers, and an unspoken power ripples from his words. "Maribelle, my love! I... have... returned,"Vaquelin declares, scooping up Maribelle Dubois in Alano's arms and planting several amorous kisses up and down her neck.
The robed thief smiles wickedly. "My side of the bargain is fulfilled. Now for your end..."
The darkness envelops you once more, shrouding the horrors that have just transpired. You are left to ponder the wickedness that still lingers in the air, like a foul stench that refuses to dissipate. The image of the man with the ghastly metal arm and the demoness with her seductive voice gnaws at your mind. What manner of abominations could they have wrought upon the world with their twisted magic and unholy bargains?
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Sandu's Turn
Sandu's Turn
Sandu gasps for air as he kneels prone on the ground, his body wracked with pain from the nachtshreck's lightning bolt. Despite his weakened state, he summons his eldritch power and sends forth two blasts of purple energy. The first beam finds its mark, striking the spectre's ethereal face and causing it to writhe in agony. But the creature is quick to recover, anticipating Sandu's second attack and evading it with unnerving ease.
Galqarin - As you enter the fray, you watch helplessly as a ferocious bolt of lightning envelops both Sandu and Dormark. Sandu appears to be injured by the attack, but Dormark lies unconscious on the floor. Moments later, one of the twisting, ethereal spirits comes for you, its eyes filled with malice. You know you have moments to act before you too are laid low by these spirits' attacks, it is your turn.
Seeing Dormark fall to the grounds, the light in his eyes winking out, Galqarin circumvents the nearest atrocity - let Rahadin deal with that - and instead rushes to the metal man's side. Beating back the creature with his fists, he reaches down to his fallen comrade, "It is not your time yet".
1st unarmed strike vs Nachtschreck#2: 14, 8 damage 2nd unarmed strike vs Nachtschreck#2: 21, 6 damage Flurry of Blows vs Nachtschreck#2: 15, 8 damage
Hand of Healing on Dormark: 6 hp
(OOC not sure what became of his staff, assuming that it was taken from him and he hasn't had chance to recover it)
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Galqarin's Turn
Galqarin's Turn
Galqarin's movements blur as he dashes to Dormark's side, sidestepping the nearest nachtshreck with lightning speed. He unleashes a rapid flurry of blows against the ethereal fiend hovering above Dormark. The first strike barely misses its mark, but Galqarin's follow-up attacks both connect with devastating force. The spirit, however, proves to be more resilient than expected, absorbing the brunt of the unarmed attacks. Despite this, the creature appears greatly weakened and on the brink of permanent death.
As Galqarin approaches the unconscious Dormark, he speaks soothing words whilst extending his hand to heal his fallen comrade. With a gentle touch, Dormark's eyes flicker on once again, his spirit reinvigorated by the bugbear's healing powers.
((Indeed, the staff was taken though will likely resurface at some point!))
Dormark - The abyssal darkness is shattered by a blinding radiance, banishing the foulness that clung to your soul. Moradin's voice echoes in your being, beckoning you to return from the edge of death. Gradually, your vision clears and you find yourself prone on the twisted floor of the mansion, Galqarin looming over you with concern etched on his face.
Dallid - Fortunately, the tide of battle seems to have turned in your favour as Galqarin, your lost companion, emerges from the shadows to join the fray. Alongside him are Rahadin, the Dusk Elf you've come to know, and a half-elf man with unkempt brown locks, looking worse for wear and utterly exhausted. You observe as Galqarin administers life back to the fallen Dormark, restoring vitality to the metal construct. Meanwhile, the nearby nachtshreck continues to hover menacingly, seeking a vulnerable opening to attack. However, you notice a momentary weakness in its defence, presenting an opportunity for you to act. It is your turn.
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Dallid's Turn
Dallid's Turn
Ferelyon lunges at the floating spirit with a command from Dallid, but the wolf's attack misses entirely, teeth gnashing at thin air. Undeterred, Dallid tries his luck with Bellringer, but the nefarious spirit proves too nimble, evading his strike with ease. The spirit releases a vile, triumphant cackle, revelling in its success at dodging both Ferelyon's and Dallid's attempts to strike it.
Rahadin's Turn
The Dusk Elf, his eyes gleaming with dark fury, limps towards the nearest nachtshreck. The twisted creature recoils at the sight of him as if sensing the danger that emanated from the elf's being. Rahadin's scimitar flashes in the dim light, a glimmering silver line that slices through the air with deadly precision. Despite his wounded state, Rahadin moves with supernatural speed and skill, closing the distance to the nachtshreck in the blink of an eye.
Scimitar Strike #1: Attack: 17, Damage: 10
Scimitar Strike #2: Attack: 26, Damage: 10
Scimitar Strike #3: Attack: 21, Damage: 9
The nachtschreck flinches as Rahadin's scimitar strikes out, too slow to defend itself. The dusk elf's blade slashes through the spirit's incorporeal form not once, not twice, but three times. The spirit, which should be resilient to such attacks, falls to the ground, shattered bones and fragments of essence lying in its wake. Rahadin, who moments ago clutched at a seemingly grievous wound, now appears revitalised and even more deadly as he turns towards the remaining spirits with a look of fierce determination. In this twisted realm of nightmares, it is clear that there are things far more terrifying than the undead spirits that haunt this place - Rahadin, for one.
Nachtshreck #1 Wisdom Saving Throw: 9
Damage: 8
Dormark - You struggle to remain conscious, watching in horror as Rahadin dispatches one of the nachtshrecks with ease. But as he advances towards the remaining spirits, a palpable darkness seems to follow him, a reminder of the unspeakable acts he must have committed in his lifetime. His expression is cold and unfeeling, his movements precise and calculated, fueled by a relentless desire to eliminate anything that stands in his path. Despite his claims of injury, there is a disturbing calmness to his demeanour, suggesting that he is far more capable than he lets on. Yet for now, he serves as a convenient diversion, giving you the opportunity to take action. The moment is yours to seize, it is your turn.
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Dormark's Turn
Dormark's Turn
Dormark's Mace of Disruption connects with the nearest nachtschreck in a violent strike, imbued with righteous fury. The creature lets out a piercing shriek, and the mace's magic courses through it, leaving behind a trail of sparking energy. The nachtschreck is now grievously wounded, its existence teetering on the brink of oblivion, as permanent death seems not far off.
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #4 - Nachtschrecks' Turn
Nachtschreck #1
Electricity courses through the air as nachtschreck #1 begins to gather power, crackling ominously as it takes aim at both Dallid and Galqarin. With a deafening shriek, the spirit unleashes a torrent of lightning, the bolts illuminating the darkened room as they hurtle toward the two party members.
Dallid and Galqarin - Please make Dexterity Saving Throws (DC 15)
Lightning Bolt: Damage: 27 lightning (13 on a successful save)
Nachtschreck #2
Nachtschreck #2 swiftly turns towards its new assailant, and with a menacing hiss, it unleashes a devastating psychic attack on Galqarin, attempting to infiltrate and assault the bugbear's very mind.
Mind Bend: Attack: 19, Damage:5(psychic)
Galqarin reels as memories of his childhood bullies flood his mind, twisted and distorted by the malevolent nachtschreck's psychic assault. The bugbear fights to keep his mind clear, but the creature's tendrils worm their way deeper, threatening to overwhelm him with fear and despair.
Sandu - The two remaining nachtschrecks shrink in size, their weakened forms belying their ferocity. You sense that they will fight with every ounce of their being until the bitter end. The timely arrival of Galqarin and Rahadin has tipped the scales in your favour, but the spirits remain formidable foes, attacking your party with unbridled malice. It is now up to you to bring an end to these corrupted entities, it is your turn.
Battlemap:
Initiative:
Nachtschreck (x2) - 22 - Small Blue Shield
Sandu - 20 - Purple Wizard's Hat
Galqarin - 15 - Dark Blue Raven
Dallid - 12 -Dark Green Bow & Ferelyon - Small Dark Green Shield
Rahadin - 11 - Black Cloak
Dormark - 5 - Dark Grey Robot
((EDIT: Apologies - I did mean Dallid rather than Dormark for the dexterity saving throw!))
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(Think you mean Dallid and Galqarin :p)
Sandu's anger over Dormark's condition subsided when he saw Galqarin somehow restoring the warforged back to consciousness. He had forgotten the bugbear could do that, punching people back to health - or would that be rebooting? - but he was glad to see Dormark back in the fray. That did not diminish the intent with which he wished to destroy the specters with his own power. Sandu raised his hand and flung two bolts of magical energy at the closest one.
Casting Eldritch Blast at Nachtschreck #2 Beam one Attack: 21 Damage: 10 Beam two Attack: 15 Damage: 9
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #4 - Sandu's Turn
((Apologies, I did mean Dallid rather than Dormark, when talking about the dexterity saves! I have changed the post above.))
Sandu's Turn
Sandu becomes wrath incarnate, his eldritch energy striking the nearest nachtschreck with unbridled force. The creature recoils as the powerful beams tear through its ethereal body, shredding it apart. Though the spirit is still technically "alive," it is so weak and faint that it seems to be hanging on by a mere thread ((close, very close)).
Galqarin - You dodge the lightning bolt with a swift and nimble movement, the energy coursing around you as you evade the worst of the blast. Behind you, Sandu unleashes a barrage of eldritch energy, the beams tearing into the closest nachtschreck with a ferocity that echoes throughout the ethereal plane. You understand that time is of the essence and that every moment is precious if you are to emerge victorious from this encounter. Now it is your chance to strike, it is your turn.
Galqarin's initiative: 15
Dallid gestures to Ferelyon to strike and swings Bellringer just after
Ferelyon Attack: 19 Damage: 11
Dallid Attack: 28 Damage: 13
Paladin - warforged - orange
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #2 - Dallid's Turn and an Unexpected Arrival
Dallid's Turn
Dallid signals Ferelyon to strike, and the wolf leaps forward to sink his teeth into the closest nachtshreck. The spirit crackles as the wolf's jaws bite into it, but the creature proves to be more resilient than expected, shaking off some of Ferelyon's assault ((resisted)). Not to be deterred, Dallid takes action and brandishes his whip, Bellringer. The whip flies through the air with a sharp crack, but unfortunately, Dallid's aim is awry, and he misses his mark.
Dormark - Before you, a most welcome sight presents itself. The fabric of reality seems to be torn asunder, revealing a wispy grey veil beyond. Through the rip, three figures emerge. First, Galqarin appears, leading a wounded Ioben through the gap, they are then followed close behind by the sinister Rahadin. Though Ioben appears too injured to fight, both Galqarin and Rahadin stand ready to face the nachtshreck. For the moment though, it falls to you to turn the tides of battle, it is your turn.
Battlemap:
Initiative:
*Joining combat at the start of Round #3.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Dormark holding up his mace says, "I will end you foul beings!" Taking a swing at Nachtschrek #3. I fit is a successful hit he will push #3 5ft towards the Eyeball in the middle and move to take the spot #3 was occupying. Otherwise, he moves towards the left 5ft feet to get out of ghost 1's firing range.
Attack: 19 Damage: 9 (I'm assuming these things are undead.)
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #2 - Dormark's Turn
Dormark's Turn
Yelling out his challenge, Dormark brings his mace crashing down at the nearest nachtshreck (#3). Unfortunately, the creature flickers momentarily with bright light, putting off Dormark's aim and narrowly avoiding his attack ((AC 15)). Sidestepping to the left, Dormark inadvertently opens himself up for a strike from the nachtshreck he attempted to waylay.
23Dormark expertly sidesteps the nachtshreck's attack of opportunity.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Nachtschrecks' Turns
Nachtschreck #1
Sparing no time, nachtschreck #1 assails Dallid's mind.
Dallid's mind becomes consumed by images of despair and hopelessness, a maelstrom of dark thoughts that distracts him from the battle raging around him.
Nachtschreck #2
Dormark's movement is matched by the relentless nachtshreck #2, which stalks his every step, moving to his immediate north. The crackling energy emanating from the creature's body grows more intense, as if it were drawing power from the air itself. Suddenly, a mighty lightning bolt is unleashed, streaking through the air towards Dormark and Sandu, leaving the outcome of their fate hanging precariously in the balance.
Nachtschreck #3
As the new intruders come into view, nachtshreck #3 charges ferociously toward Galqarin, Ioben, and Rahadin. The creature reaches Rahadin, who stares at it with a piercing gaze. Suddenly, the spectre turns a deep red, letting out a spine-chilling wail that resonates with multiple voices. The voices, all coming from the creature, speak of Rahadin's dark deeds, his mercilessness, and his bloodthirsty ways. Overwhelmed by the horror of the screams, the creature halts in its tracks, unable to move for a moment in Rahadin's presence.
Rahadin's lips curl into a wicked grin, barely flinching at the throbbing pain in his side. "You think you've seen the worst of me, you wretched creature?" he taunts the spectre with a cold, menacing edge to his voice.
Battlemap:
Initiative:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
(Dormark is down as he rolled a nat 1 and the blast takes out his hit points.)
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Dex save: 8 (crap, full damage)
Concentration save for Protection from Evil and Good on Dormark: 21 (spell still up)
Too much happened too fast for Sandu to properly register. Out of nothing stepped Galqarin into view, the very same they were looking for, and... Wait, was that Ioben with him? What was he doing here? He looked injured, partially relying on Galqarin for support and was in no condition to fight. With everything going on the man would be a sitting duck for the spirits' attacks. Sandu began to move towards Ioben when he noticed two things: Rahadin was also there, adding to the man's noticable talent to show up where and whenever he pleased, and in the corner of his eye, reflected off of Dormark's metal skin, a whitish bright light racing towards him, too fast to dodge...
The lightning struck Sandu in the left shoulder and coursed through his body. Muscles contracted, limbs spasmed and Sandu's insides felt like they were on fire. The lightning dissipated in an instant but it was the longest, most agonising instant he had ever had the displeasure of having. Sandu fell onto one knee. His breath shocked in his throat. His nostrils were assaulted with the smell of burnt cloth and charred flesh. The front of his shoulder was blackened: the cloth had been burned, nay, incinerated and the flesh underneath looked and felt like someone ran a red hot poker through it.
A loud clank distracted Sandu from the wound, in so far as it was possible. Dormark, stalwart Dormark, had falled onto the ground. The lights that normally burned in the warforged eyes had dimmed and to Sandu it looked like they grew fainter with every passing moment. They contrasted the magic Sandu had weaved to protect his friend which still softly glimmered around the warforged's body, making it like someone shone a light upon a suit of armour.
Sandu looked up. The spirit closest had vacated to assault Galqarin and Rahadin. His eyes trailed to the side. There, on the other side of Dormark, floated the second one. Errant arcs of lightning arched across its spectral body before dying out. It was the one that had burned Sandu and downed Dormark. Sandu's rational mind said that he should save his friend or protect him from further harm but that first instinct was drowned out by the primal rage that overruled any other decision. He gritted his teeth, though it was the rage or his jaw muscles cramped shut he could not say, and with a burning hatred in his eyes Sandu raised his arm to blast the specter to kingdome come.
Action: Eldritch Blast
Beam 1: 17 to hit, 10 force damage
Beam 2: 11 to hit, 10 force damage
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
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Dormark's metal frame surges with electrical energy as the lightning bolt crashes into him. His eyes faintly dim before switching off, and he crumples to the floor, unconscious.
Dormark:
The darkness engulfs your sight, and as moments tick by, you realize that time has ceased to exist. Your metallic frame crumples, vulnerable before a ghastly, hovering spectre. The nachtshreck weaves terrible visions in your mind, conjuring images of unspeakable horror. You are aware that these fiends are the remnants of those who dared to stand against Strahd, their souls now corrupted by an unyielding thirst for revenge that follows them beyond the grave.
Your mind is filled with more images from your past. A malevolent figure exuding wickedness, a thief with nefarious intent, who stole from you your precious life-giving flame. Now, in your visions, he stands before a monstrous demoness, her limbs elongated and contorted as they make a deal.
"You have the means?" The demoness' voice crawls.
"Aye, all I request is free passage. In return, well let's say that Alano will find that his soul has a companion of sorts. Though, as I am sure you are aware, only one soul should inhabit a vessel at a time. You are certain that this Vauquelin will be able to dominate him?" the cowled man replies, his words dripping with poison. His left arm, bitten off long ago, has been replaced with a ghastly metal construct that glints with unseen power.
With a sickening thud, Maribelle drags Alano's battered and broken body before the conspirators. His face is barely recognisable, distorted by bruises and cuts that ooze with putrid pus. His eyes, once full of life and loyalty, now stare lifelessly at the ground. He moans in agony, a pitiful sound that echoes through the dimly lit chamber, the stench of blood and decay is overwhelming.
"M-mercy! Mistress, please?!" Alano pleads pitifully. "Have I not always been a l-loyal s-servant?"
Wordlessly, the robed thief steps forward, pressing his metal arm upon Alano's head. The butler's pained screams fill the air, but it's to no avail.
"Is it done?" the demoness eagerly asks.
"Why don't you ask our friend," the betrayer intones.
"Guy? Is that you?" Maribelle asks wearily.
Alano's face twists, his body no longer inhabited by one soul but two. The stronger soul answers, and an unspoken power ripples from his words. "Maribelle, my love! I... have... returned," Vaquelin declares, scooping up Maribelle Dubois in Alano's arms and planting several amorous kisses up and down her neck.
The robed thief smiles wickedly. "My side of the bargain is fulfilled. Now for your end..."
The darkness envelops you once more, shrouding the horrors that have just transpired. You are left to ponder the wickedness that still lingers in the air, like a foul stench that refuses to dissipate. The image of the man with the ghastly metal arm and the demoness with her seductive voice gnaws at your mind. What manner of abominations could they have wrought upon the world with their twisted magic and unholy bargains?
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Sandu's Turn
Sandu's Turn
Sandu gasps for air as he kneels prone on the ground, his body wracked with pain from the nachtshreck's lightning bolt. Despite his weakened state, he summons his eldritch power and sends forth two blasts of purple energy. The first beam finds its mark, striking the spectre's ethereal face and causing it to writhe in agony. But the creature is quick to recover, anticipating Sandu's second attack and evading it with unnerving ease.
Galqarin - As you enter the fray, you watch helplessly as a ferocious bolt of lightning envelops both Sandu and Dormark. Sandu appears to be injured by the attack, but Dormark lies unconscious on the floor. Moments later, one of the twisting, ethereal spirits comes for you, its eyes filled with malice. You know you have moments to act before you too are laid low by these spirits' attacks, it is your turn.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Seeing Dormark fall to the grounds, the light in his eyes winking out, Galqarin circumvents the nearest atrocity - let Rahadin deal with that - and instead rushes to the metal man's side. Beating back the creature with his fists, he reaches down to his fallen comrade, "It is not your time yet".
1st unarmed strike vs Nachtschreck#2: 14, 8 damage
2nd unarmed strike vs Nachtschreck#2: 21, 6 damage
Flurry of Blows vs Nachtschreck#2: 15, 8 damage
Hand of Healing on Dormark: 6 hp
(OOC not sure what became of his staff, assuming that it was taken from him and he hasn't had chance to recover it)
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Galqarin's Turn
Galqarin's Turn
Galqarin's movements blur as he dashes to Dormark's side, sidestepping the nearest nachtshreck with lightning speed. He unleashes a rapid flurry of blows against the ethereal fiend hovering above Dormark. The first strike barely misses its mark, but Galqarin's follow-up attacks both connect with devastating force. The spirit, however, proves to be more resilient than expected, absorbing the brunt of the unarmed attacks. Despite this, the creature appears greatly weakened and on the brink of permanent death.
As Galqarin approaches the unconscious Dormark, he speaks soothing words whilst extending his hand to heal his fallen comrade. With a gentle touch, Dormark's eyes flicker on once again, his spirit reinvigorated by the bugbear's healing powers.
((Indeed, the staff was taken though will likely resurface at some point!))
Dormark - The abyssal darkness is shattered by a blinding radiance, banishing the foulness that clung to your soul. Moradin's voice echoes in your being, beckoning you to return from the edge of death. Gradually, your vision clears and you find yourself prone on the twisted floor of the mansion, Galqarin looming over you with concern etched on his face.
Dallid - Fortunately, the tide of battle seems to have turned in your favour as Galqarin, your lost companion, emerges from the shadows to join the fray. Alongside him are Rahadin, the Dusk Elf you've come to know, and a half-elf man with unkempt brown locks, looking worse for wear and utterly exhausted. You observe as Galqarin administers life back to the fallen Dormark, restoring vitality to the metal construct. Meanwhile, the nearby nachtshreck continues to hover menacingly, seeking a vulnerable opening to attack. However, you notice a momentary weakness in its defence, presenting an opportunity for you to act. It is your turn.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Dallid makes a Hyah! sound at the monster and swings his whip as Ferelyon keeps biting.
Ferelyon Attack: 9 Damage: 9
Whip Attack: 11 Damage: 8
Paladin - warforged - orange
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Dallid's Turn
Dallid's Turn
Ferelyon lunges at the floating spirit with a command from Dallid, but the wolf's attack misses entirely, teeth gnashing at thin air. Undeterred, Dallid tries his luck with Bellringer, but the nefarious spirit proves too nimble, evading his strike with ease. The spirit releases a vile, triumphant cackle, revelling in its success at dodging both Ferelyon's and Dallid's attempts to strike it.
Rahadin's Turn
The Dusk Elf, his eyes gleaming with dark fury, limps towards the nearest nachtshreck. The twisted creature recoils at the sight of him as if sensing the danger that emanated from the elf's being. Rahadin's scimitar flashes in the dim light, a glimmering silver line that slices through the air with deadly precision. Despite his wounded state, Rahadin moves with supernatural speed and skill, closing the distance to the nachtshreck in the blink of an eye.
The nachtschreck flinches as Rahadin's scimitar strikes out, too slow to defend itself. The dusk elf's blade slashes through the spirit's incorporeal form not once, not twice, but three times. The spirit, which should be resilient to such attacks, falls to the ground, shattered bones and fragments of essence lying in its wake. Rahadin, who moments ago clutched at a seemingly grievous wound, now appears revitalised and even more deadly as he turns towards the remaining spirits with a look of fierce determination. In this twisted realm of nightmares, it is clear that there are things far more terrifying than the undead spirits that haunt this place - Rahadin, for one.
Dormark - You struggle to remain conscious, watching in horror as Rahadin dispatches one of the nachtshrecks with ease. But as he advances towards the remaining spirits, a palpable darkness seems to follow him, a reminder of the unspeakable acts he must have committed in his lifetime. His expression is cold and unfeeling, his movements precise and calculated, fueled by a relentless desire to eliminate anything that stands in his path. Despite his claims of injury, there is a disturbing calmness to his demeanour, suggesting that he is far more capable than he lets on. Yet for now, he serves as a convenient diversion, giving you the opportunity to take action. The moment is yours to seize, it is your turn.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Dormark standing back up moves to the left 5 ft and takes swing at #2.
Attack: 20 Damage: 10
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #3 - Dormark's Turn
Dormark's Turn
Dormark's Mace of Disruption connects with the nearest nachtschreck in a violent strike, imbued with righteous fury. The creature lets out a piercing shriek, and the mace's magic courses through it, leaving behind a trail of sparking energy. The nachtschreck is now grievously wounded, its existence teetering on the brink of oblivion, as permanent death seems not far off.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #4 - Nachtschrecks' Turn
Nachtschreck #1
Electricity courses through the air as nachtschreck #1 begins to gather power, crackling ominously as it takes aim at both Dallid and Galqarin. With a deafening shriek, the spirit unleashes a torrent of lightning, the bolts illuminating the darkened room as they hurtle toward the two party members.
Nachtschreck #2
Nachtschreck #2 swiftly turns towards its new assailant, and with a menacing hiss, it unleashes a devastating psychic attack on Galqarin, attempting to infiltrate and assault the bugbear's very mind.
Galqarin reels as memories of his childhood bullies flood his mind, twisted and distorted by the malevolent nachtschreck's psychic assault. The bugbear fights to keep his mind clear, but the creature's tendrils worm their way deeper, threatening to overwhelm him with fear and despair.
Sandu - The two remaining nachtschrecks shrink in size, their weakened forms belying their ferocity. You sense that they will fight with every ounce of their being until the bitter end. The timely arrival of Galqarin and Rahadin has tipped the scales in your favour, but the spirits remain formidable foes, attacking your party with unbridled malice. It is now up to you to bring an end to these corrupted entities, it is your turn.
Battlemap:
Initiative:
((EDIT: Apologies - I did mean Dallid rather than Dormark for the dexterity saving throw!))
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
(Galqarin's DEX save: 25)
(Think you mean Dallid and Galqarin :p)
Sandu's anger over Dormark's condition subsided when he saw Galqarin somehow restoring the warforged back to consciousness. He had forgotten the bugbear could do that, punching people back to health - or would that be rebooting? - but he was glad to see Dormark back in the fray. That did not diminish the intent with which he wished to destroy the specters with his own power. Sandu raised his hand and flung two bolts of magical energy at the closest one.
Casting Eldritch Blast at Nachtschreck #2
Beam one Attack: 21 Damage: 10
Beam two Attack: 15 Damage: 9
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
Tyrgram, the Butterfly Knight: Dwarf Warlock - Secret of Greenwold
Iòlinder Corrach: Half Elf War Cleric - Allansia Adventure
Valerius Sergius Publius: Dhampir Paladin - Vae Victus
Night of the Living Nachtschreck - Round #4 - Sandu's Turn
((Apologies, I did mean Dallid rather than Dormark, when talking about the dexterity saves! I have changed the post above.))
Sandu's Turn
Sandu becomes wrath incarnate, his eldritch energy striking the nearest nachtschreck with unbridled force. The creature recoils as the powerful beams tear through its ethereal body, shredding it apart. Though the spirit is still technically "alive," it is so weak and faint that it seems to be hanging on by a mere thread ((close, very close)).
Galqarin - You dodge the lightning bolt with a swift and nimble movement, the energy coursing around you as you evade the worst of the blast. Behind you, Sandu unleashes a barrage of eldritch energy, the beams tearing into the closest nachtschreck with a ferocity that echoes throughout the ethereal plane. You understand that time is of the essence and that every moment is precious if you are to emerge victorious from this encounter. Now it is your chance to strike, it is your turn.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)