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05:31, 2nd May 2024 (GMT+0)

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail.

Posted by DMFor group 0
DM
GM, 461 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Mon 5 Feb 2018
at 05:13
  • msg #1

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

With food and horses finally acquired, the four heroes are ready to leave Westbank for the northern trail and, eventually, the caves where they first encountered Makik, the hooded man and murderer of Morlough Merris.

It is afternoon when they depart. As luck would have it, Celador and Thorfire are stuck riding stubborn Ol' Charlie again. the horse does his best to throw the pair for a while before finally giving up and plodding along at a steady pace.

Therarak, having overslept for the entire morning, catches up with the party just as they are leaving and joins Lazaret on his slightly more cooperative steed. The stranger with the strange accent, however, is nowhere to be seen. Presumably, he went on his way south in search of more answers... and more orcs. Still, his brief appearance with the party was enough to save them from prison and potentially save the village from whatever the hooded man has planned.

As they trot out of town, a host of curious villagers observe. Most smile, although some still sneer.

Bobbin Glenfellow scurries alongside Lazaret for a moment as he rides. "Take good care of Cornelius. Don't let him wander off without telling you where he's going."

Harriet Livingston, the sickly young girl who they met on the trail some five days ago, scurries up to riders and hands them each cluster of daisies. She looks healthier than when they first met her. Whether it is from her own tough northern resilience or the healing help of Brother Walword is hard to say. Regardless, her smile warms day as the riders depart.

And Blackwing, as always, sits atop the head of Staal Stronghammer with a watchful eye on the horsemen. He caws twice as they depart, then turns his focus to other matters around the park.
DM
GM, 463 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 8 Feb 2018
at 03:57
  • msg #2

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The party makes good time on the northern road. They meet a few travelers heading south, but none have anything of particular value to tell the heroes. Nonetheless, Lazaret speaks to them at great length, and it is all the party can do to keep the tabaxi pointed north.

They reach the bridge at about sunset. Signs of the battle that they spotted last week are hard to identify now, as nature resets the once gruesome scene. The bridge, of course, is the place to turn west if returning to the cave. Finding the exact path there in the decreasing light, however, will prove difficult.

OOC: it is pushing 8:00 pm. You are at the bridge. Up to you whether to spend the night here or press on. There is a chance you will miss the cave altogether looking for it in this light (say DC 21). Finding it in daylight will be auto-success. But it's your call.
Celador Qiris
player, 225 posts
Fighter 4, SD 4d8
AC: 15 (13), HP: 36/36
Thu 8 Feb 2018
at 04:50
  • msg #3

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"It is getting late. I suggest we find a place to set up camp for the night," comments Celador as he dismounts his disagreeable steed.

"We should try to conceal our location in case our hooded friend is watching," he adds.


I say we wait here until tomorrow and then find the cave.

22:49, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  survival. scouting a safe location for a camp.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 309 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Sat 10 Feb 2018
at 23:18
  • msg #4

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 3):

Good idea my pointy eared friend, we should set a watch too. I'll take the first watch.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 23:19, Sat 10 Feb 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 115 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sat 10 Feb 2018
at 23:27
  • msg #5

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 3):

I will help with the camoflauge to hide our location.

17:25, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 21 using 1d20+1. Survival, Camoflauge.
DM
GM, 465 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 05:13
  • msg #6

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

With the sun setting, the party finds a suitable spot to set up camp, away from the road and out of sight. Though chilly, they opt against a fire so as not to draw attention to their secluded position.

Thorfire takes the first watch, followed in turn by Therarak, Celador, and finally Lazaret. Aside from the occasional twitch of an animal in the wilderness, the night passes without event.

22:47, Today: DM rolled 36 using 1d100.  20% chance of random encounter overnight..

Morning comes and the four break camp and head west toward the cave they first visited a week ago. Celador recalls the landmarks and within a couple hours you easily ride to the final hill before the cave opening. From atop the approaching rise, you will be able to look down onto the cave in the face of the opposite hillside.

OOC: cave mouth will be facing you from the top of the hill.

Thorfire Shortankard
player, 310 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 16:12
  • msg #7

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 6):

Let us proceed with caution, who knows what kind of trap the hooded man has devised now that he knows we are on his trail.  Thorfire checks for traps as they approach the cave.

10:11, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 11 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones.  Sleight of Hand, checking for traps.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 116 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 16:14
  • msg #8

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 7):

Good idea Thorfire, I will help check for traps too.

10:13, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 21 using 1d20+4.  Sleight of Hand, checking for traps.
Celador Qiris
player, 226 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 05:48
  • msg #9

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"Let us be stealthy as we approach. You are correct in assuming that the hooded man will be expecting us," Celador adds as they reach the top of the hill overlooking the cave entrance. Celador takes his longbow and readies an arrow.

"Laz, you seem unusually quiet. Dare I say, 'cat got your tongue'?" he adds with a wink and a nudge.

23:47, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 20 using 1d20+3.  stealth.

Do we see anything as the cave entrance comes into view
DM
GM, 466 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 07:12
  • msg #10

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

At the top of the hill, Therarak spots something standing in the cave mouth. Hidden partially in shadows, it stands with a slouch, yellowish gray flesh sagging from its limbs where they are not covered by tattered clothing. Slowly it rotates toward you, revealing the pathetic sentry has only one arm which hangs lifelessly from his left shoulder. In his hand he holds a large bell.

Back and forth the sentry rotates with a lost look upon his face.

OOC: Still about 200 feet to the mouth of the cave from the top of the neighboring hill where you now stand. There is no indication that the one-armed bell carrier has seen you.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 311 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 19:00
  • msg #11

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 10):

Cover me lads, I am going to hobo kill the bell carrier.  I will call if I need help.

12:53, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 20 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones.  Stealth.

Assuming that a 20 stealth is sufficient to get the drop on the doorman...

12:55, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 17 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones.  Attack with Rapier.
12:57, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 13 using 2d8+4.  Rapier Damage (All hits on a creature that is surprised is a critical hit)
12:58, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 7 using 2d6.  Sneak Attack Damage.

As a bonus action, I will attempt to hide in plain sight.
12:59, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 21 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones.  Hide in Plain Sight.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:00, Wed 14 Feb 2018.
Lazaret
player, 365 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 23/23
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 21:54
  • msg #12

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 11):

"And I am going to get that bell!"

Lazaret sneaks up to about 100' from the doorman. Once Thorfire begins to swing his rapier, he sprints forward using his cat's speed and grabs the bell from the zombie.
Celador Qiris
player, 227 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Thu 15 Feb 2018
at 05:58
  • msg #13

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

As Thorfire moves in, Celador continues to approach the entrance to the cave. He watches as the halfling does what a murder hobo does best. Celador pulls the bowstring taught and prepares to help finish the sentry off.

Celador moves to 100' and will fire an arrow if Thorfire doesn't kill him outright.


23:51, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Attack with long bow. NAT 20 (none of that rogue assassin BS)

23:52, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 16 using 2d8+3.  damage with long bow. CRIT DAMAGE

36 points of damage? I assume the zombie is dead before he hits the ground.
DM
GM, 467 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Fri 16 Feb 2018
at 06:13
  • msg #14

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Thorfire sneaks easily across the valley and up the hillside toward the mouth of the cave. The halfling assassin pauses briefly when the sentinel's predictable gaze crosses his path, then returns to motion, progressing quickly to a position above the mouth of the cave.

By this time, Celador and Lazaret have also moved up, finding cover behind a outcropping of rock.

With a smile, Thorfire nods to Lazaret and Celador, then springs into action. The halfling's rapier strikes deep and produces a large moan from the shriveled, walking corpse, but it still stands. With another moan, it rotates toward his attacker with bell raised.

Before the rotten remains of a man can strike, however, an arrow strikes it through the neck, neatly decapitating it. As the head falls to the ground, so does the bell in his only arm, certain to make a clammer when it hits. But the noisemaker never reaches the ground. Instead, it falls into the diving hands of Lazaret, who catches it an inch from the stone floor with little more than a whisper.

Eventually, the headless remains from the rapier and arrow attacks slump to the ground alongside Lazaret.

From their position in the cave mouth, those with darkvision can see into the first room, some 30 feet down the northward passage. Nothing stirs within the chamber that they can see.

OOC: Map of the cave is back online as the main map. You are currently at the mouth.
Good teamwork nullifying the zombie sentinel.
Don't forget Therarak - unless I hear otherwise, I will assume he's moving with the group, staying at the back of the party.
Lazaret
player, 366 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 23/23
Fri 16 Feb 2018
at 17:02
  • msg #15

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

 To silence the bell, Lazaret tears a piece of the zombies rags and wraps it around the clanger.
"I will shiny this up later. Now let's go inside and finish our work."
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 117 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sun 18 Feb 2018
at 20:02
  • msg #16

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 14):

From the cave mouth, Therarak peers deeper into the cave.  He whispers, I will check it out. Using his Svirfneblin abilities, he stealthily enters the cave and checks for additional traps (taking care to avoid the pit trap to the giant rats).

Therarak casts nondection on himself(Svirfneblin Magic. Can cast Nondetection on myself at will)
14:00, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 24 using 2d20+2.  Stealth. (advantage on stealth in rocky terrain)
14:02, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  Perception (looking for traps).
This message was lightly edited by the player at 20:03, Sun 18 Feb 2018.
DM
GM, 470 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 05:06
  • msg #17

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Therarak disappears into the darkness like a Svirfneblin breeze. He checks methodically for traps as his crosses the first room, but finds nothing. He proceeds northward, staying to the side of the pit in the corridor (no longer covered). He peers into the trap as he passes, and spots a few rats below, but not nearly as many as when they dumped the goblin remains down there a week ago.

Once past the pit, he freezes against the wall as he hears something coming. In another instant, he spots a giant rat as it appears from around the corner on the western side of the T intersection. It turns its head southward down the corridor toward Therarak, sniffing, but not moving.
DM
GM, 471 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 05:06
  • msg #18

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Therarak disappears into the darkness like a Svirfneblin breeze. He checks methodically for traps as his crosses the first room, but finds nothing. He proceeds northward, staying to the side of the pit in the corridor (no longer covered). He peers into the trap as he passes, and spots a few rats below, but not nearly as many as when they dumped the goblin remains down there a week ago.

Once past the pit, he freezes against the wall as he hears something coming. In another instant, he spots a giant rat as it appears from around the corner on the western side of the T intersection. It turns its head southward down the corridor toward Therarak, sniffing, but not moving.
Lazaret
player, 367 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 23/23
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 19:06
  • msg #19

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 18):

Lazaret leans in and puts his paw on the elf's shoulder. "Celador. I bet you can't hit that giant rat between the eyes" he whispers while giving the archer bardic inspiration (1).
This message was last edited by the player at 19:06, Mon 19 Feb 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 118 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 20:29
  • msg #20

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 18):

Seeing the rat, Therarak quietly reaches into his trust bag for a vial of fire and readies an action.  He will throw the vial if the rat approaches him.  When he is prepared, he quietly back tracks toward his companions (cautiously avoiding the trap).

14:25, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 22 using 2d20+2.  Stealth.

If the rat approaches, it must make a DEX save against the vial of fire...and lights up the rat for minimal damage

14:29, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 2 using 2d6.  Fire Damage.
DM
GM, 472 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 04:15
  • msg #21

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The rat sniffs the air for a moment, then proceeds eastward through the intersection without any further notice of Therarak.

22:06, Today: DM rolled 17 using 2d20.  Rat perception (w/advantage) vs 22 stealth.
The gnome carefully retreats toward the others at the cave mouth to relay his findings.

OOC: I didn't have anyone but Therarak close enough to see the rat. As a result, Lazaret, you don't need to spend your bardic inspiration if you don't want to.

At this point, you are all back at the cave mouth with a reasonable confidence that there are no traps (other than the pit into the rat room) as far as the T intersection (M10).
Celador Qiris
player, 228 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 21:43
  • msg #22

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"Let's go in and get this done with. Move quickly and take no prisoners." Celador says with a somber and serious tone and not his typical happy go lucky demeanor. He quickly and quietly moves with sword and shield ready, past the rat pit and to the "T" intersection.

15:41, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 22 using 1d20+3.  stealth.

does Celador see anything down either side of the intersection?
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 119 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Wed 21 Feb 2018
at 19:45
  • msg #23

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 22):

Therarak follows the elf (not quite as quietly), but stays behind the T (M8).

13:45, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 13 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  Stealth.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:45, Wed 21 Feb 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 313 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Wed 21 Feb 2018
at 19:48
  • msg #24

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 21):

Thorfire also follows the mutton loving bastard, err elf, into the cave.

13:47, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 24 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones.  Stealth.

BTW, is there any light in this cave?!?
Celador Qiris
player, 229 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Wed 21 Feb 2018
at 21:06
  • msg #25

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

short little murder hobo:
BTW, is there any light in this cave?!?


THIS CAVE IS LIT!!!!

ha ha, what's the problem? little hobbits can't see in the dark?
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 314 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Wed 21 Feb 2018
at 23:26
  • msg #26

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 25):

Are you lit?!?  Too much mutton?!?  Isn't that what you call the bar maid?
DM
GM, 473 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 22 Feb 2018
at 04:50
  • msg #27

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador leads the others to the T intersection. The passageways are dark. The torches that lit the way a week ago are extinguished. While there is very little to see, the heroes catch a hint of the smell of rotting flesh and far in the distance, they hear a murmur, perhaps a voice... or maybe just their minds playing tricks on them.

OOC: no light. A torch will have to be lit in order for those without darkvision to proceed.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 315 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Thu 22 Feb 2018
at 17:57
  • msg #28

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 27):

Thorfire climbs onto Celador's back (run, run, jump, I can be a backpack while you run). A torch won't be needed...for now.  You smell like flowers, I think I understand why the barmaid likes you so much. He gives him a quick peck on the cheek.  Let's go kill some stuff.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:03, Thu 22 Feb 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 230 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Fri 23 Feb 2018
at 04:25
  • msg #29

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"Easy there 'friend'. I'm not looking for a long term relationship," Celador responds to Thorfire's show of affection.

"How about I take the deep gnome and we scout out ahead, if we find the necromancer we can devise a plot with more light. In the meantime you keep Laz company and try not to make too much noise."
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 316 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Fri 23 Feb 2018
at 19:10
  • msg #30

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 29):

Thorfire hops off Celador's back. I'm not looking for a long term relationship either, just some good times with "good friends".  We will table this for now.  After I borrow your sword to cut off the hooded man's head, perhaps we can pick up where we left off".

Turning to Lazaret, Please don't start singing or pontificating as you are prone to do
This message was last edited by the player at 19:23, Fri 23 Feb 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 120 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Fri 23 Feb 2018
at 19:21
  • msg #31

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 29):

Lead on my good elf. The normally quiet and graceful deep gnome stubs his toe on a rock and cursed, perhaps a little too loudly.

13:11, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 8 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  Stealth. (Seriously, with advantage?!?)
This message was last edited by the player at 19:22, Fri 23 Feb 2018.
Lazaret
player, 368 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 23/23
Sat 24 Feb 2018
at 01:49
  • msg #32

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 31):

"All that skin on skin stuff you are into. It's an abomination against the Cat God. But to each his own. I promise not to tell that girlfriend of yours. She'll smell halfling on your sword anyway. Yuck.

Now let's get in there find this fucker."


19:49, Today: Lazaret rolled 14 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:49, Sat 24 Feb 2018.
DM
GM, 474 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 24 Feb 2018
at 05:17
  • msg #33

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador and Therarak proceed down the hall while Thorfire stays put in the darkness. As he does, the distant squeaks and scurrying of giant rats becomes more evident to the sightless halfling.

The elf and deep gnome make it to the northern turn in the passageway (J10). Straight ahead of them (to the west) is the chamber where earlier they spotted several rats dining on the remains of several humanoids. The chamber is mostly bones now, although as they approach, they scare off a couple rats who scramble for the narrow passage in the northwestern corner of the room.

Moving north, the pair reaches the next intersection (J13). The passage proceeds north while a side passage goes west into the goblin barracks, which appears deserted from their current position.

OOC: Lazaret, not sure if you wanted to join the scouting party or stay with Thorfire.
Celador Qiris
player, 231 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Thu 1 Mar 2018
at 05:42
  • msg #34

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador holds a finger against his lips to indicate to Therarak to proceed quietly. He draws his sword and cautiously enters the goblin barracks to make sure they are still empty.


23:39, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 8 using 1d20+3.  stealth.

hmm

23:40, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 22 using 1d20+3.  perception.
DM
GM, 475 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 1 Mar 2018
at 06:08
  • msg #35

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador shuffles into the goblin barracks, making more noise than he hoped. To his good fortune, nothing awaits him in the chamber. From what his darkvision can tell him, the room is as it was a week ago, empty except for a few makeshift beds scattered about. There is, however, a stench of decomposing bodies lingering in the air. It's not as bad as the stench where the bodies were found earlier (room 5, G10), but the elf can't help but think something foul smelling has been in these barracks in the last day or so.

And in the darkness, both Celador and Therarak hear something. At the very edge of their perception, they detect a subtle, rhythmic thump from the northern passageway.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 317 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Thu 1 Mar 2018
at 18:26
  • msg #36

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 33):

Enough of this waiting around crap, I want to kill something.  Let's go Laz.  Thorfire pulls out a torch, lights it and proceeds to the intersection to his left (J10).
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 121 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Thu 1 Mar 2018
at 18:28
  • msg #37

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 34):

Hearing the noise, Therarak stretches out with his senses to discern the direction and distance of the thumping noise...and perceives he is in a cave.

12:28, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 10 using 1d20+3.  Perception.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 18:29, Thu 01 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 369 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 23/23
Fri 2 Mar 2018
at 03:55
  • msg #38

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 37):

Drawing his rapier, Lazaret points out two rats 60' to the west. "We should kill those things before they sneak up on us. Stay close then light a torch so you can see."

Lazaret leads Thorfire into the room with the two rats and attacks them with his rapier.
DM
GM, 476 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Fri 2 Mar 2018
at 04:45
  • msg #39

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Therarak can't tell exactly how far away the thumping noise is, but is fairly certain it is still a ways off and comes from somewhere further up the northern passage.

Lazaret follows the two scurrying rats into the southwestern chamber, but when he enters the room, he finds three of their giant cousins sneaking out of alcoves in both the northwest and southwest corners of the room. The giant rats scurry toward the tabaxi and halfling with yellow teeth showing.

Post round 1 actions(Lazaret and Thrfire only). Three giant rats are charging.
Lazaret
player, 370 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 23/23
Fri 2 Mar 2018
at 16:51
  • msg #40

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 39):

"Stay close, my roguish friend!" Lazaret slashes at the first rat.

10:50, Today: Lazaret rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.
10:50, Today: Lazaret rolled 10 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 318 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Sat 3 Mar 2018
at 02:58
  • msg #41

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 40):

Let's kill these damn rats and find the hooded man so I can cut off his head.  With rapier in one hand and the torch in the other, Thorfire calmly kills (or badly wounds) a giant rat.

20:54, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 18 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones.  Attack with Rapier (Assassinate gives advantage on creatures that have not attacked yet).
20:56, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
20:56, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 2d6.  Sneak Attack Damage.
DM
GM, 477 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 3 Mar 2018
at 07:42
  • msg #42

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret steps towards the first of the three charging rats. He swings, but his rapier only skims a few hairs off the back of the hissing beast.

Thorfire follows his tabaxi friend into the frey, landing a decisive thrust on the third rat and dropping it in its place.

The two remaining rats hiss while scurrying at their opponents' feet. One rat sinks his teeth into Lazaret's lower leg while the other takes a small bite from Thorfire's thigh (both Lazaret and Thorfire take 4 piercing damage).

From further up the northern passageway, Celador and Therarak hear the familiar sound of rapiers and rats.


01:30, Today: DM rolled 21 using 2d20+4.  Rat1 vs. Lazaret (advantage due to pack tactics).
01:31, Today: DM rolled 27 using 2d20+4.  Rat2 vs. Thorfire (advantage due to pack tactics).


Post round 2 actions: Two rats still standing. Room is lit by Thorfire's torch.
Lazaret
player, 371 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 23/23
Sat 3 Mar 2018
at 13:52
  • msg #43

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 42):

"You little bitch!"
Lazaret stabs at the rat, this time his blade finds a home.
"There's another, Thorfire!"
Lazaret swings his large paw with razor sharp claws toward the last rat.

07:49, Today: Lazaret rolled 2 using 1d4.  Claw Damage.
07:48, Today: Lazaret rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Claw Attack.
07:46, Today: Lazaret rolled 7 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.
07:46, Today: Lazaret rolled 16 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 319 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 31/31
Sat 3 Mar 2018
at 15:40
  • msg #44

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 42):

It's fun, and a little weird to see an overgrown cat play with an overgrown mouse...Laz, must I kill everything for you?  This is how it's done.

09:35, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 20 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones.  Rapier Attack.
09:36, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 10 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
09:36, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 10 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:40, Sat 03 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 372 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Sat 3 Mar 2018
at 15:47
  • msg #45

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 44):

"Glad I could soften that one up for you.
Are you going to eat it? Maybe later, huh?
Let's find the elf and the gnome."
DM
GM, 478 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sun 4 Mar 2018
at 06:25
  • msg #46

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

With their concentrations focused by the sting of giant rat teeth, it takes Lzzaret and Thorfire little time to finish off their attackers. Once that action is complete, the pair exits the room, heads north, and then west to the barracks, where they find Celador and Therarak finishing up their search. There is nothing of value or interest here, other than a soft murmur and periodic thumping coming from further down the northern passage. It is still too far off to determine whether the murmur is a voice or something else.
Lazaret
player, 373 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Sun 4 Mar 2018
at 21:38
  • msg #47

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 46):

"Let's go find out what's causing that noise."

Lazaret sneaks off up the hallway (to I15).


15:38, Today: Lazaret rolled 15 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
18:52, Today: Lazaret rolled 7 using 1d20+6.  Perception. Passive = 16
This message was last edited by the player at 00:52, Mon 05 Mar 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 320 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 27/31
Mon 5 Mar 2018
at 00:07
  • msg #48

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 47):

Therarak and Thorfire proceed back to the main corridor (J13), trying to discern the nature of the thumping noise.

18:06, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 16 using 2d20+2.  Stealth.
18:08, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

18:07, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 17 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones.  Stealth.
18:11, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 20 using 1d20+2, rerolling ones.  Perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:12, Mon 05 Mar 2018.
DM
GM, 479 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Mon 5 Mar 2018
at 01:48
  • msg #49

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret slinks up the corridor until it bends eastward. Seeing no immediate danger, he signals for the others to join him. Together they survey the cold, damp surroundings, straining their ears to make sense of the distant thumping. Thorfire recognizes it as a drum, clumsily beaten from further down the eastern passage.

And every so often, between beats, a voice. He doesn't recognize the language, but it is a deep, inhuman voice.

OOC: moved you all up to J15 just to keep things moving.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:49, Mon 05 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 374 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Mon 5 Mar 2018
at 14:03
  • msg #50

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 49):

The party follows the sound of the drum to its source. Carefully checking for traps and bad guys as they proceed into the familiar cave system.
DM
GM, 480 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 6 Mar 2018
at 04:33
  • msg #51

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret leads the quartet of heroes into the third northern passageway toward the sound of the drumming. The stones that had fallen from the ceiling still collect on the floor and a quick check by Thorfire suggests there are no more traps awaiting them.

As they start down the first flight of stairs (about M20) they notice the flicker of torchlight ahead of them. By the looks of it, torches are lit somewhere northwest of the landing in front of the door (at N22).

The drumbeats are more clear now, but the strange voice is still far off, by the sounds of it.
Celador Qiris
player, 232 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Tue 6 Mar 2018
at 06:19
  • msg #52

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador meets up with the rest of the party as he comes out of the barracks room.

"There's nothing in there," he states, "do you hear that drum? Doesn't sound good, let's get going."

Celador proceeds with caution.

00:19, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Stealth.

Sheesh, no one posts for like a week and then I get a little busy for a weekend and BOOM! the party is cruising throught the cave system
Lazaret
player, 375 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Tue 6 Mar 2018
at 15:22
  • msg #53

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 52):

"I think you can put that torch out now" Lazaret whispers to Thorfire. "Are you sneaking in or am I?" Lazaret prepares to cast Invisibility.
DM
GM, 481 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 7 Mar 2018
at 05:35
  • msg #54

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The four heroes descend the stairs as far as they can (M21) while remaining out of the torchlight from further below.

As they make their plans, they notice the drumming, while still distant, grows louder.



Celador Qiris:
Sheesh, no one posts for like a week and then I get a little busy for a weekend and BOOM! the party is cruising throught the cave system

Oh yeah. It's on!
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 321 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 27/31
Wed 7 Mar 2018
at 16:58
  • msg #55

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 53):

I will scout ahead, I don't think I need invisibility...I'm small and quiet. Thorfire proceeds up the hall darting from shadow to shadow looking for traps and things (critacular).

10:57, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 24 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones.  Stealth.
11:00, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 22 using 1d20+2, rerolling ones.  Perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:02, Wed 07 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 376 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Thu 8 Mar 2018
at 03:59
  • msg #56

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 55):

"We let the little fellow do his thing. If he gets eaten, I get his share" Lazaret whispers to Celador.
DM
GM, 482 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 8 Mar 2018
at 07:18
  • msg #57

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Thorfire disappears into the shadows and turns the corner to head further down the stairs. He finds the passageway clear of traps, but can't help but notice that the once subtle scent of rotting flesh has increased to gag-worthy levels.

About half way down the next flight of stairs, he sees the source of the odor. In the doorway to the chamber where they originally battled the hooded man are two zombies, flesh rotting from their bones where they stand. Each stares blankly up the passageway toward Thorfire, but neither appears to see the stealthy halfling.

All the while, the drumbeat continues from some distance beyond the doorway.

OOC: Thorfire is 15' from the zombies. There is a torch on the wall just outside the doorway. There is more torchlight coming from the chamber beind the zombies.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 322 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 27/31
Fri 9 Mar 2018
at 02:37
  • msg #58

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 57):

Thorfire returns to his companions to report the zombies.
Lazaret
player, 377 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Fri 9 Mar 2018
at 23:46
  • msg #59

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 58):

"Two of the rotten things? We can do this one of two ways. Quietly with knives and arrows, or loudly with my speed and my spells. Or the little grey guy can lob some fire down there."
DM
GM, 483 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 10 Mar 2018
at 06:24
  • msg #60

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

OOC: Game map is up to date. I'll let you four plan your next move.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 323 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 27/31
Sat 10 Mar 2018
at 19:47
  • msg #61

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 59):

Let's kill them quietly, I'll take the right one and you take the left?

13:37, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 20 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones.  Stealth.
13:38, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 12 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones.  Attack with Rapier.
13:40, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 10 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones.  Rapier Attack. (Advantage with Assassinate on enemy that hasn't taken a turn in battle - any hit on a creature that is surprised is a critical hit)

Assuming a 12 hits a zombie...

13:39, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 13 using 2d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
13:41, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 10 using 2d6.  Sneak Attack Damage.

This message was last edited by the player at 19:50, Sat 10 Mar 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 122 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sat 10 Mar 2018
at 19:55
  • msg #62

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 59):

Therarak somewhat quietly follows Thorfire and pulls an acid vial from his trusty bag of holding and lobes it at the zombie on the left.

13:54, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 8 using 2d20+2.  Stealth.
13:54, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 6 using 2d6.  Acid Damage.
Celador Qiris
player, 233 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Sat 10 Mar 2018
at 23:58
  • msg #63

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador sheaths his sword and takes up bow and arrow. He quietly moves into position to get a shot at the zombies.

17:56, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  Attack with long bow. Zombie on the left

17:56, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 11 using 1d8+3.  damage with long bow.

Therarak:
13:54, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 8 using 2d20+2.  Stealth.


Is that just 2d20 or did you roll with advantage?
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 123 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sun 11 Mar 2018
at 00:10
  • msg #64

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 63):

Deep gnomes roll with advantage when in Rocky terrain.
Lazaret
player, 378 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Sun 11 Mar 2018
at 14:50
  • msg #65

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 64):

"Quietly it is...Where did he go?" Lazaret charges down toward the zombie that wasn't murdered by Thorfire.

09:49, Today: Lazaret rolled 8 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.

09:49, Today: Lazaret rolled 20 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.

09:48, Today: Lazaret rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
Celador Qiris
player, 234 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Sun 11 Mar 2018
at 14:58
  • msg #66

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 64):

Therarak:
Deep gnomes roll with advantage when in Rocky terrain.


never mind
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 124 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sun 11 Mar 2018
at 15:44
  • msg #67

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 66):

Without advantage,  it would have been a 4...so double is better, right?
DM
GM, 485 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 13 Mar 2018
at 05:27
  • msg #68

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Thorfire disappears in the shadows and reappears 30' later with a deadly strike on the first zombie, who falls in a decomposing heap to the floor.

The second zombie turns to face Thorfire, but before he can attack, a vial of acid breaks upon his shoulder, sizzling against the already rotten skin in a noxious cloud. As he screeches and turns to see who struck him, an arrow pierces his chest. Still, the decomposing man stands, looking blankly. It is finally Lazaret, who had just padded unnoticed to a nearby shadow, who leaps from the darkness and provides the sentinel a merciful conclusion to his unlife.

23:18, Today: DM rolled 5 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 2 DEX saving throw vs. acid.
23:32, Today: DM rolled 9 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 2 undead fortitude (DC 5+8).

But Lazaret and Thorfire can see clearly into the chamber now. There are several undead awaiting them there, including one who stands taller, looks like a bugbear, and carries a morningstar. Behind all of them, barely visible, stands Malik, garbed in a flowing robe, but this time no hood. His hands are gloved and he wears a thin band around his head.

"Kill them!" he cries. "Send them to their pathetic graves!"

The zombies press toward the heroes, while behind Malik the drumbeats grow louder and a chant in some unknown language can be heard.

OOC: Enter round 1 actions. There are 4 zombies, 1 bugbear zombie and one Malik, who has 3/4 cover behind zombies and boulders.
Celador Qiris
player, 235 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Tue 13 Mar 2018
at 05:35
  • msg #69

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

How far is Celador from the Zombies? How far until he can see them? If he can approach a few feet and see them he will fire another arrow, he would preferably do this at a distance of 40-50'. If he is within 35' he will take up his shield and sword and enter melee combat.

Looking at the map it would appear as though the zombies are within closing distance of Celador. I was picturing Celedor further back, near the bend in the stairs (N22).

In that case...

Coming further down the stairs, Celador sees the vile handiwork of the necromancer and quickly draws his sword and shield, charging at the nearest zombie. "AAAARRRRRGH!!!!"


00:41, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 22 using 1d20+5.  attack with long sword. zombie #5

00:42, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 9 using 1d8+5.  damage with long sword.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:44, Tue 13 Mar 2018.
DM
GM, 486 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 13 Mar 2018
at 05:47
  • msg #70

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

OOC: The closest zombie (Zombie 5) is about 30' from Celador where he now standspreviously stood. It was basically 15 feet for you to the cavern entrance (where Z1 and Z2 are piled) and another 15 feet to Z5 and Z6. Technically Lazaret and Thorfire are in the hallway in front of Celador, but we'll say you can fire over Thorfire's head without penalty.

I've updated the map, too.

...never mind, looks like you found the map.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:51, Tue 13 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 379 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Tue 13 Mar 2018
at 11:37
  • msg #71

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 70):

As Celador rushes in, Lazaret casts Faerie Fire on the enemies.

(DC 14 DEX save or be illuminated and have all attacks on them have advantage.)
Celador Qiris
player, 236 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Tue 13 Mar 2018
at 13:04
  • msg #72

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Can Celador rush in just after Laz casts Faerie Fire or can it be cast in a way that doesn't hit him?

Elvis:
Wise men say only fools rush in.

Lazaret
player, 380 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Tue 13 Mar 2018
at 17:28
  • msg #73

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 72):

(OOC - He casts it over your head. The advantage is up to the DM.)
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 324 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 27/31
Tue 13 Mar 2018
at 19:41
  • msg #74

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 73):

Thorfire will hold his action until he determines the effect of the Faerie Fire.  If the bugbear zombie enters into melee range, Thorfire will attack the vile beast.  If not, he will attack the nearest zombie.

Kill the damn bugbear!

14:38, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 19 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones.  Rapier Attack.
14:38, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 7 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
14:39, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 11 using 2d6.  Sneak Attack Damage.

Thorfire will hide in plain sight behind a zombie, bugbear, etc.

14:40, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 12 using 1d20+8.  Hide in Plain Sight.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 125 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Tue 13 Mar 2018
at 19:59
  • msg #75

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 68):

Therarak grabs his trusty vial of fire (area effect 5' radius) and lobes it to the Hooded Man.  He (and any creature within 5 feet of him, which, looking at the map includes at least 2 zombies and maybe the bugbear) must make a DC15 DEX Save

14:58, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 12 using 2d6.  Fire Damage (Area Effect). MAX DAMAGE!
This message was last edited by the player at 20:02, Tue 13 Mar 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 237 posts
Fighter 4 | SD 4d8
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Wed 14 Mar 2018
at 05:35
  • msg #76

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Cast over my head? I'm not a halfling or a gnome for chrissake!
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 325 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 27/31
Wed 14 Mar 2018
at 22:25
  • msg #77

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 76):

He meant between your legs, since there isn't any there to get in the way
DM
GM, 488 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 15 Mar 2018
at 05:04
  • msg #78

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

At Lazaret's bidding, the entire room is engulfed in a green light, including several of the heroes' enemies. Only the bugbear zombie and one of the others is spared the green glow of faerie fire.
01:43, Today: DM rolled 4 using 1d20-1.  Malik DEX save vs. Faerie Fire.
01:43, Today: DM rolled 17 using 1d20-1.  Zombie Bugbear DEX save vs. Faerie Fire.
01:42, Today: DM rolled 16 using 1d20-2.  Zombie4 DEX save vs. Faerie Fire.
01:41, Today: DM rolled 1 using 1d20-2.  Zombie3 DEX save vs. Faerie Fire.
01:41, Today: DM rolled 11 using 1d20-2.  Zombie6 DEX save vs. Faerie Fire.
01:41, Today: DM rolled 13 using 1d20-2.  Zombie15 DEX save vs. Faerie Fire.

A moment later, Therarak's vial of alchemical fire explodes on the floor, catching both Malik and one of the decaying zombies in its blast.
01:50, Today: DM rolled 2 using 1d20-1.  Zombie4 DEX save vs. Alchemical Fire.
01:49, Today: DM rolled 19 using 1d20-1.  Zombie3 DEX save vs. Alchemical Fire.
01:49, Today: DM rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Malik Dex save vs. Alchemical Fire.
Malik and Zombie4 take 12hp damage!

Thorfire strikes hard at the zombie bugbear, but the beast still stands. The ever evasive halfling ducks behind one of the other zombies for cover, and all but Malik are at a loss to spot him.
23:07, Today: DM rolled 7 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 4 perception vs. hiding Thorfire.
23:06, Today: DM rolled 11 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 3 perception vs. hiding Thorfire.
23:06, Today: DM rolled 4 using 1d20-2.  zombie 6 perception vs. hiding Thorfire.
23:04, Today: DM rolled 22 using 1d20+2.  Malik perception vs. hiding Thorfire.
23:04, Today: DM rolled 6 using 1d20-2.  Zombie Bugbear perception vs. hiding Thorfire.

Two zombies close in on Celador. One gains a glancing blow (damage 4 or 0, depending on whether or not Celador is glowing), but the other catches Celador hard across the back, nearly knocking the elf to his knees.
23:23, Today: DM rolled 11 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 5 attack vs. Celador.
23:27, Today: DM rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 5 attack vs. Celador (only if faerie fire on Celador). Celador takes 4 damage if he DOESN'T make a DEX save (with advantage) vs. Lazaret's Faerie Fire
23:29, Today: DM rolled 23 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 3 attack vs. Celador. Critical hit... Celador takes 8 damage.

The bugbear zombie, confused but who or what stabbed him, looks about for a moment before settling on the tabaxi as a target. He strikes with his morning star, tearing Lazaret open across his side.
Another zombie attacks the wounded tabaxi, but his luck is different. He strikes Lazaret with his right arm, but when he does, his arm comes disattached at the shoulder, oozing a gruesome mix of pus and maggots when it does.
23:22, Today: DM rolled 19 using 1d20+4.  Zombie Bugbear vs. Lazaret. Lazaret takes 11 damage.
23:23, Today: DM rolled 4 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 6 attack vs. Lazaret. Critical miss... zombie 4 is now missing an arm, will have disadvantage on remaining attacks.

Finally Malik, still at the back of the room with a sneer on his face, strikes. "I've been waiting for you, halfling. Let me make sure you are the first to die!" As he speaks, the circlet around his head begins to glow. Then, with flash, three rays of light flash across the room toward Thorfire. The first hits the ground at his feet, but the second and third both strike the halfling, staggering him greatly.

Malik laughs out loud, then mutters a few more words while flashing a tiny silver mirror in the glowing green light.

Malik has cast sanctuary on himself, meaning that anyone attempting an attack against him must make a successful DC 13 WIS save or else turn that attack on another target.

23:15, Today: DM rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  Malik scorching ray vs. Thorfire.
23:08, Today: DM rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Malik scorching ray vs. Thorfire. Critical hit... Thorfire takes 12 damage.
23:08, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Malik scorching ray vs. Thorfire.
23:16, Today: DM rolled 6 using 2d6.  scorching ray damage.

And all the while, the drumbeats continue.


Tough round against: Thorfire takes 18 damage, Lazaret 11, and Celador 12 (if he missed his DEX save) or 4 (if he made it).
Post round 2 actions!
Map has been updated.
Zombies 3, 5, 6, and Malik are aglow in faerie fire (you get advantage).
Malik has cast sanctuary upon himself, so DC13 WIS save required to attack him.
Zombie 4, 5, the bugbear zombie, and Malik have all taken damage.
Zombie 6 is missing an arm.
Zombie 3 is undamaged.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:09, Thu 15 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 382 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 19/23
Thu 15 Mar 2018
at 11:38
  • msg #79

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 78):

"You smelly brute! Malik, you will pay for this!"

Lazaret brushes off the horrible damage caused by the bugbear and points a finger at Malik. He casts Heat Metal on Malik's circlet.

06:38, Today: Lazaret rolled 6 using 2d8.  Heat Metal Damage.
Heat Metal is not an attack so no WIS save is needed.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:40, Thu 15 Mar 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 126 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Thu 15 Mar 2018
at 22:19
  • msg #80

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 78):

When we sees Malik cast sanctuary, Therarak smiles and calmly lobes another fire vial at Zombie 4 who is within 5 feet of Malik.  Sanctuary "doesn't protect the warded creature from area effects, such as the explosion of a fireball."

Malik and Zombie 4 must make a DC15 DEX Save...doing considerable less damage.

17:14, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 3 using 2d6.  Fire Damage.

As a bonus action, Therarak grabs a small piece of parchment from his satchel and casts Shield of Faith on Thorfire granting him +2 AC.

He then lobes a healing potion to Thorfire. Here you go my small friend
This message was last edited by the player at 22:31, Thu 15 Mar 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 326 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Thu 15 Mar 2018
at 22:30
  • msg #81

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 78):

Catching the healing vial, Thorfire sneers, I will enjoy cutting your pathetic head from your body after I cut down your "friends"  He shakes off the damage and proceeds to sneak attack the Zombie Bugbear.

17:25, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 17 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones.  Rapier Attack.
17:26, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 10 using 1d6+4.  Rapier Damage.
17:27, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 4 using 2d6.  Sneak Attack Damage.

Zombie Bugbear takes 18 points of damage in Round 1 and 14 points of damage in Round 2 = 32 points of damage (is it dead yet?)

As a bonus action, Thorfire will Hide in Plain Sight.  (Hoping to live another round)

17:29, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 19 using 1d20+8.  Hide in Plain Sight.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:08, Fri 16 Mar 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 238 posts
Fighter 4 | SD3d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Fri 16 Mar 2018
at 04:14
  • msg #82

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador manages to dodge the effect of Laz's Faerie Fire.

22:55, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  DEX save.

The Zombie that he first hit tries to return the strike but misses. Celador takes advantage of the zombie's miss and swiftly takes another swing at him.

Reaction: using superiority die for Riposte maneuver against Zombie 5

23:01, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 12 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  attack with long sword. FF advantage

23:02, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 8 using 1d8.  Superiority dice.

23:02, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 12 using 1d8+5.  damage with long sword.

Total damage: 20

I believe I hit this zombie earlier for a total of 29 damage between the two rounds.

"oof," Celador responds with a grunt as the next Zombie slashes him across the back. Not one to let a slight go unanswered, Celador turns and cuts at the other glowing zombie.

23:05, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 14 using 2d20+5. with rolls of (9,6)  attack with long sword. FF advantage.

23:07, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 9 using 1d8+5.  damage with long sword.

I had to reread Dane's post five times to understand everything that happened, I thought I would try to return the favor.
DM
GM, 491 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 17 Mar 2018
at 06:40
  • msg #83

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

After lending a hand to Thorfire, Therarak finds his next vial of alchemical fire is not nearly as effective as his first. Malik slides out of the way and the zombie standing next to him manages to dodge it, as well.
00:14, Today: DM rolled 15 using 1d20-2.  Zombie4 DEX save vs. Alchemical Fire.
00:14, Today: DM rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Malik Dex save vs. Alchemical Fire.

Thorfire, ducking in and out of cover throughout the melee, strikes another hard hit against the bugbear zombie. His rapier drives deep, yet the monster does not fall. But for all the damage it suffers, it cannot find the source of its multiple wounds. Instead, it must turn its attention to Lazaret.
00:34, Today: DM rolled 1 using 1d20-2.  zombie 6 perception vs. hiding Thorfire.
00:33, Today: DM rolled 5 using 1d20-2.  Zombie Bugbear perception vs. hiding Thorfire.
00:53, Today: DM rolled 3 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 4 perception vs. hiding Thorfire.

For his part, Lazaret's spell has the desired effect on Malik. The evil necromancer screams in pain as the band on his head begins to scorch his hair. Frantically, he removes the band, then crumples to his knees. "Kill them," he screeches to the zombie still at his side. "Kill them all!" Those who watch him fall now realize that the stones that once blocked the far end of the chamber have been moved. There is now a passageway on the northwest end. Malik crawls a few feet up that passage, then crumples face first to the floor.

Celador finishes the zombie in front of him with a flourish. Two quick slashes leave a mound of rotting flesh in two distinct parts on the floor. Both twitch for a few seconds before coming to an eventual and final stillness. But the elf isn't done. There is another zombie in front of him and the final zombie, who was standing next to Malik, also staggers forward with a drooping, pus filled eye on Celador. Both of the zombies attack, but neither hit.
00:45, Today: DM rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 3 vs. Celador.
00:54, Today: DM rolled 10 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 4 attack vs. Celador.

With no idea where the halfling now stands, the bugbear zombie returns his attention to Lazaret. He strikes hard with his morningstar, knocking the tabaxi to the ground. Lazaret's head swims for just a moment before he falls unconscious. Even those who do not see him fall notice the green glow on the walls and on some of their opponents fade away.
00:39, Today: DM rolled 15 using 1d20+4.  Zombie Bugbear vs. Lazaret.
00:41, Today: DM rolled 11 using 2d8+2.  Morningstar damage to Lazaret.

The drumbeats continue, clearly coming from the northwest passage. And now a low distorted voice can be heard: gherlec al'duur, huugerthaan huulkhaar


Post round 3 actions.
Map is up to date.
Zombies 1, 2, and 5 are dead.
Zombies 3 and 4 are both engaged with Celador. Both have taken damage.
The zombie bugbear has just defeated Lazaret (death saving throws begin in round 3). Has no idea where Thorfire is. Substantially wounded.
Zombie 6 is undamaged, but his arm fell off in round 2 and will attack with disadvantage.
Malik has removed his headgear and is crumpled on the ground. Sanctuary is still in effect.
Faerie fire (a concentration spell) went out when Lazaret fell unconscious.
Lazaret
player, 384 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 8/23
Sat 17 Mar 2018
at 12:31
  • msg #84

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 83):


07:30, Today: Lazaret rolled 19 using 1d20.  Death Saving Throw.

07:30, Today: Lazaret rolled 15 using 1d20.  Death Saving Throw.

07:30, Today: Lazaret rolled 14 using 1d20.  Death Saving Throw.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 127 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sat 17 Mar 2018
at 19:57
  • msg #85

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 83):

Wanting to finish off the hooded man, Therarak grabs an acid vial (not an area effect potion) but fails to find Malik so he attacks Zombie #3 who must make a DC15 Dex Save...doing somewhat less than max damage.

14:55, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Wisdom Save vs. Sanctuary.
14:56, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 5 using 2d6.  Acid Damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:05, Sat 17 Mar 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 327 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Sat 17 Mar 2018
at 20:11
  • msg #86

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 83):

Taunting the Zombie Bugbear, Would you just die already!  Thorfire calmly stabs the vile monster in the taint and finally ends his unnatural life.

15:08, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 24 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones.  Rapier Attack.
15:08, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 5 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
15:09, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 9 using 2d6.  Sneak Attack Damage.

Another 14 points of damage on the bugbear...should be enough?!?

As a bonus action, Thorfire will disengage and move to Lazarat.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:18, Sat 17 Mar 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 328 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Sat 17 Mar 2018
at 20:16
  • msg #87

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 84):

Isn't three successful rolls good enough to be stable?
This message was last edited by the player at 21:07, Sat 17 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 386 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 8/23
Sun 18 Mar 2018
at 01:09
  • msg #88

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 87):

OOC - Takes three turns.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 330 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Sun 18 Mar 2018
at 19:16
  • msg #89

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 88):

Not if I stab you in the heart on my next turn...
Celador Qiris
player, 239 posts
Fighter 4 | SD2d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 28/36
Mon 19 Mar 2018
at 03:55
  • msg #90

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador once again uses the zombies missed attack as an opportunity to attempt to strike the undead monster...

Reaction: Riposte maneuver

22:50, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 9 using 1d20+5.  attack with long sword.

damn waste of a superiority die...

...and then swings at the vile creature again.

22:52, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  attack with long sword.

are you kidding me? That Faerie Fire sure would be handy...

The elf's gag reflex at the smell of the rotting, melting corpse is enough to make him miss his first strike, and almost miss his second.

09:33, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 12 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 7,3.  attack.

09:41, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 9 using 1d8+5 with rolls of 4.  damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:43, Mon 19 Mar 2018.
DM
GM, 498 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Mon 19 Mar 2018
at 04:42
  • msg #91

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Seeing his tabaxi friend fall at the hands of the undead bugbear, Thorfire once again springs from behind the one-armed zombie and attacks. This time his rapier strikes deep. The decaying brute on the receiving end of the attacks stares oddly at Thorfire. The halfling wonders if it might even be a look of relief. Whatever the meaning, the monster finally crumples to the ground next to Lazaret in a rotten pile.
21:46, Yesterday: DM rolled 15 using 1d20+3. Bugbear zombie undead fortitude (CON, DC 19).

Though tempted to throw at the fallen Malik, Therarak is swayed to instead throw his vial of alchemical acid at one of the zombies in combat with Celador. Not only does the vial strike its target in the shoulder, but the zombie also falls in a futile attempt to avoid it, his ankle turned awkwardly underneath himslef. The stench from the burning flesh is almost unbearable for Celador, but the elf has little choice but to grit his teeth and attack. He misses wildly on his first stroke, but with his second he defeats the fallen, acid damaged zombie as it tries to attack from its knees.
Because zombie 3 is prone, Celador can make another attack (with advantage) in this round.
21:44, Yesterday: DM rolled -1 using 1d20-2.  Zombie3 DEX save vs. Alchemical Acid.
23:26, Today: DM rolled 9 using 1d20+3.  zombie 3 (disadvantage: prone) vs. Celador.
23:26, Today: DM rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  zombie 3 (disadvantage: prone) vs. Celador.

The other zombie in front of Celador hisses and claws at the elf, but his attack glances off Celador's shield.
23:17, Today: DM rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 4 attack vs. Celador.

The one-armed zombie, oozing profusely from the left shoulder, sees Thorfire rush to Lazaret's side. With a grunt, the zombie swings futilely at his opponent.
22:05, Yesterday: DM rolled 12 using 2d20+3 with rolls of 3,6. Zombie 6 attack vs. Thorfire (w/disadvantage).

Malik still lies motionless on the floor in the northwest passageway. Behind him the drumbeats continue as does the eerie voice:  "gherlec al'duur kaakagakhaan"


Post round 4 actions!
Bugbear zombie has fallen!
Malik is not moving.
Zombies 1, 2, 3, and 5 are dead.
Zombie 4 is wounded, battling Celador.
Zombie 6 (one-armed, but not otherwise wounded) is battling Thorfire.
Lazaret has 1 success and 0 failures in the death saving throw department.

This message was last edited by the GM at 18:44, Mon 19 Mar 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 242 posts
Fighter 4 | SD2d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 28/36
Tue 20 Mar 2018
at 04:49
  • msg #92

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Having finished off yet another of the undead, Celador turns his sword on the zombie to his other side.

23:46, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 23 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 18.  Attack.

23:47, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 8 using 1d8+5 with rolls of 3.  Damage.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 128 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Tue 20 Mar 2018
at 16:08
  • msg #93

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 91):

Still not able to clearly see Malik, Therarak throws another acid vial at Zombie #4.

11:04, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 9 using 1d20+1.  Wisdom Save vs. Sanctuary.
11:06, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 6 using 2d6.  Acid Damage.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 332 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Tue 20 Mar 2018
at 17:00
  • msg #94

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 91):

Thorfire waves his rapier at Zombie #6 and hits it for minor damage.

11:59, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones with rolls of {1}2.
22:05, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 6 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
22:06, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 2 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,1.  Sneak Attack Damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:07, Wed 21 Mar 2018.
DM
GM, 502 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 21 Mar 2018
at 04:45
  • msg #95

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador slashes at the zombie in front of him and his sword carves out another swath of goo from the decaying wreck. Even so, he still stands, but only until Therarak plunks him with another vial of acid. Distracted by the elf in front of him, the zombie doesn't even see it coming, and it proves to be the final blow. The zombie falls while the vapors from his burning undead flesh still float into the air.

19:08, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20-2.  Zombie4 DEX save vs. Alchemical Acid.
19:12, Today: DM rolled 9 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 4 undead fortitude.

Thorfire, meanwhile, swings wildly at the only the only remaining foe, the one-armed zombie. To the halfling's surprise, his swing connects, but doesn't defeat the tragic foe in front of him. Instead, the zombie strikes back with surprising strength and quickness, driving the halfling to the brink of death (7hp damage to Throfire).

19:20, Today: DM rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 6 attack vs. Thorfire (w/disadvantage).
19:20, Today: DM rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 6 attack vs. Thorfire (w/disadvantage).
19:22, Today: DM rolled 7 using 1d6+1.  damage.

And the drumbeats continue from the passage beyond Mailk, now at a faster pace. The distorted voice grows louder. "gherlec al'duur, huugerthaan huulkhaar."

Post round 5 actions!
Only zombie 6 (the one-armed zombie) still stands. He is now wounded.
Zombies 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are dead.
The Zombie Bugbear is dead.
Malik is not moving.
Lazaret is still unconscious, but has 2 successes and 0 failures so far on death saving throws.

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:47, Wed 21 Mar 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 243 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 28/36
Wed 21 Mar 2018
at 05:01
  • msg #96

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador turns from acid drenched zombie in time to see the final zombie slash the halfling viciously.

"NO! Thorfire, man up and live to fight another day!" in an effort to bolster his companions resolve.

Celador moves quickly to introduce the undead to the taste and fury of his blade.

23:56, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 19 using 1d20+5. Attack.

23:56, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 10 using 1d8+5.  Damage.

Bonus Rally manuever on Thorfire, temp HP=1d8 + CHA

23:58, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 4 using 1d8.  Superiority dice.

4 temp HP to Thorfire
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 129 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Wed 21 Mar 2018
at 13:30
  • msg #97

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 95):

Seeing only one zombie left, confident that the elf and Halfling can take care of it, Therarak pulls a healing potion from his bag, pries open Lazarat's mouth, and pours the vile tasting potion down his gullet.  Lucky for him, he is unconscious otherwise he might puke from this stuff

Lazarat roll 2d8 to determine how many hit points you have.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:37, Wed 21 Mar 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 335 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 6/31
Wed 21 Mar 2018
at 13:36
  • msg #98

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 95):

If the last zombie isn't dead, Thorfire will sneak attack him and hopefully end its miserable existence.

08:33, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 16 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones with rolls of 10.  Rapier Attack.
08:33, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 9 using 1d8+4, rerolling ones with rolls of 5.  Rapier Damage.
08:33, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 2d6, rerolling ones with rolls of 4,4.  Sneak Attack Damage.

Even though Malik may still be alive, I don't like the sound of the drums and approaching creatures.  I think we should retreat for now...I hate running from a fight, but we are all a bit beat up.  What do you guys think?
This message was last edited by the player at 13:36, Wed 21 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 388 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 8/23
Wed 21 Mar 2018
at 21:30
  • msg #99

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 98):

"Ahhhhhh!" Lazaret stands straight up gagging on the healing potion.

16:22, Today: Lazaret rolled 9 using 2d8.  Healing.

"Damn you, Myleak!" Lazaret runs up about 15 feet away from the necromancer and casts a second level thunderwave toward him. (Area effect, so no sanctuary protection.)

16:22, Today: Lazaret rolled 15 using 3d8.  Thunderwave.


"Wait, did you say something about running?" Lazaret runs out of the room.

(With cat's speed he has 60' of movement.)
DM
GM, 503 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 22 Mar 2018
at 00:19
  • msg #100

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador slices through the final zombie, but it still stands after the elf's strike, dripping from multiple places a combination of blood, ooze, and worms. With renewed resolve from Celador, Thorfire finds the strength to strike one last time at the final standing foe, returning him to the grave.

18:54, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 6 undead fortitude.

While the elf and halfling put the finishing touches on the final zombie, Therarak comes to the aid of Lazaret. His healing draught works with surprising speed and the tabaxi wastes no time to approach the fallen necromancer.

Before Lazaret can finish the deed, however, Malik rolls to his side, revealing his characteristic smirk, but now on a badly burned face. "It'sss toooo laaaaate," he sneers. "Drummm beeeeatsssss."

As if on cue, the drumming increases intensity while Malik gasps his final breaths. "Errr general arrivessssss. They're cominnnnnng."

He starts a raspy, final laugh, but Lazaret's thunderwave ends it abruptly. All that's left of Malik after that is a smoldering smear against the passage wall.

In spite of the ominous sounds of the drums and distorted chants, the heroes can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at what's left of Malik. But they also sense this is no time to gloat and Lazaret heads for the stairs.
Lazaret
player, 389 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 9/23
Thu 22 Mar 2018
at 02:23
  • msg #101

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 100):

"When we tell this tale, let's not forget who killed The Hooded Man, eh?

"Thorfire, are you okay? I assume you fought bravely. I must have blacked out for a moment."

Lazaret places his hand on Thorfire's shoulder and casts Cure Wounds and grants him bardic inspiration.

21:23, Today: Lazaret rolled 8 using 1d8+4.  Cure Wounds on Thorfire.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:24, Thu 22 Mar 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 336 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 6/31
Thu 22 Mar 2018
at 03:45
  • msg #102

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 101):

Following the cat, Thorfire retreats. Thanks for the healing spell.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 130 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Thu 22 Mar 2018
at 03:47
  • msg #103

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 100):

Yes, let's get moving, are we heading back to town or finding a place to camp in the woods?
Celador Qiris
player, 245 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 28/36
Thu 22 Mar 2018
at 04:22
  • msg #104

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador watches as the cat man jumps up from near death and blasts the necromancer to smithereens.

"seriously, he's dead and then he poaches my kill."

He then watches the tabaxi take off running in the opposite direction as if his tail were on fire.

"Laz! Where are you going?"

He then notices the diminutive rogue and artificer follow close behind.

"Where is everyone going?"

Celador follows after the rest of the party.

Therarak:
are we heading back to town or finding a place to camp in the woods?


"We don't have time to head back to town. We must make our stand here. Is there a way we can seal them in this cave? Or we can at least keep watch on the entrance and ambush them as they come out. I can take first watch if you need to rest, but we may only have an hour, maybe two." he replies.
Lazaret
player, 391 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 9/23
Thu 22 Mar 2018
at 15:59
  • msg #105

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"What strange world have I returned to? The elf wishes to fight and the rogue wants to run. I shall fight! Lead on, Celador! "

Lazaret grants Celador bardic inspiration.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:09, Thu 22 Mar 2018.
DM
GM, 504 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Fri 23 Mar 2018
at 05:35
  • msg #106

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The heroes retreat as far as the stairs before discussing whether to press on or fall back. As the discussion continues, the drumbeats reach their loudest, each thump rattling against the walls.

"gherlec al'duur kaakagakhaan," the distorted alien voice commands. "kaakagakhaan!"

After the order, the air is split by a deep, hideous, roaring screech. The sound shakes the walls, causing pebbles to rain down on the four adventurers from the ceiling.

And the drumbeats continue.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 131 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Fri 23 Mar 2018
at 12:41
  • msg #107

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 105):

Therarak grabs two healing vials (2d8) from his satchel and gives them to Thorfire and Celdor. Take your medicine like good children.  He then casts cure wounds on Lazaret.

07:39, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 8 using 1d8+5. Cure Wounds
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 337 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 15/31
Fri 23 Mar 2018
at 12:47
  • msg #108

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 107):

Damn that's nasty stuff...thanks Therarak.   Thorfire prepares for battle and goes Stealth mode.

07:44, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 9 using 2d8 Healing
07:45, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 13 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones. Stealth
Lazaret
player, 392 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Fri 23 Mar 2018
at 19:05
  • msg #109

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 108):

"I love music as much as the next person, but these drums are ridiculous. Let's silence them. Cover us, Celador."

Lazaret follows Thorfire's lead and sneaks back down the stairs.

14:05, Today: Lazaret rolled 15 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:06, Fri 23 Mar 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 246 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Sat 24 Mar 2018
at 03:37
  • msg #110

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador throws back the draught. "Aack. Can't you come up with cherry flavor or something?" he grimaces.

22:25, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 10 using 2d8.  healing draught.

"We need not try to be heroes and die in this cave. Keep whatever vile beasts may come at a distance and don't be afraid to fall back as they advance. There is no cowardice in choosing to live and fight another day, my friends."

Where are we on the map? If you look at the map for Group 4, I would guess at the top of the stairs where the hallway ends (M/N 16) We could use that as a choke point to set an ambush or use area of effect spells
DM
GM, 506 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 24 Mar 2018
at 05:09
  • msg #111

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

While Celador pleads for reason and strategy, Lazaret and Thorfire disappear back down the stairs toward the drumbeats. The chamber is strewn with decaying zombies now. Maggots and worms continue to feast on the dead flesh. On the far end of the chamber, they find cover in the stockpile of rocks that once blocked the passageway ahead of them. It runs only ten feet before opening into another doorway. Beyond that doorway the passage ends at a ledge extending only 5 feet from the walls. Beyond the ledge only a drab, gray darkness. While difficult to tell from their position, it appears that the ledge extends around both corners of the doorway (right/northeast and left/southwest).

Just in front of the doorway lies what's left of Malik. His garments are charred almost to ash from Lazaret's thunderwave.

OOC: Thorfire and Lazaret make a perception roll.

And from the darkness beyond the ledge, the drumbeats continue while the low, distorted voice crescendos. "kaakagakhaan!"

There is a swirling of wind and an even sharper bite to the stench in the air. Both of the brave explorers struggle to keep from retching.

OOC: Not sure exactly how far Thorfire and Lazaret wanted to proceed, so I moved you up to the far edge of the chamber where you battled. I also switched back to the full map and have updated your positions there.
Lazaret
player, 393 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Sat 24 Mar 2018
at 11:27
  • msg #112

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 111):

Carefully approaching the larger room, Lazaret peers inside.

06:26, Today: Lazaret rolled 15 using 1d20+6.  Perception.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 338 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Sat 24 Mar 2018
at 17:06
  • msg #113

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 112):

Thorfire also peers into the larger room.

12:06, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 18 using 1d20+2.  Perception.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 132 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sat 24 Mar 2018
at 17:11
  • msg #114

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 112):

Therarak sneaks his way towards the sound of the drums and stands slightly behind Laz and takes a look.

12:08, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 20 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 3,18.
12:10, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 22 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 19.  Perception.
Celador Qiris
player, 247 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Sun 25 Mar 2018
at 21:56
  • msg #115

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador shakes his head as the cat runs off half cocked yet again. He sheaths his sword and draws his bow, readying and arrow on the bowstring.  He cautiously follows, allowing his darkvision to scope out the room ahead.

Celador will follow along about 10' behind Lazaret, arrow ready to fly
DM
GM, 507 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Mon 26 Mar 2018
at 05:17
  • msg #116

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

After a deep breath, the heroes proceed carefully down the passage to get a closer look at the mysterious chamber before them. Lazaret and Thorfire approach first, crawling on their stomachs until they can peer over the side of the ledge. Thorfire has to crawl around the charred remains of Malik. As he does, he can't help but notice the rings of Morlough Merris adorning Malik's grubby fingers. The same rings he saw hidden in the crate in the prison, proving once and for all who the real murderer was. As for the rings, all but one are blackened by the thunderous attack from Lazaret, but one still glitters as if it were freshly polished. Curious.

Therarak goes next, blending in with the wall directly behind Lazaret. Malik's body lies nearby, still smirking even in death. At his feet, he notices the metal headband which Malik threw off as a result of Lazaret's conjuring. It now sits idly on the floor, although Therarak can clearly see the gem at its center still emits a faint light.

Finally Celador, with bow drawn, takes position behind Therarak. Carefully and quietly he joins the others as they peer over the ledge...

The doorway opens into an enormous chamber, roughly circular in shape and nearly 100 feet across. They enter on a ledge that runs all the way around, circling the chamber some 25 to 30 feet above the floor below. On the western edge of the chamber, the ledge splits off, ramping downward for 20 feet, providing access to the chamber below. Torches adorn the walls and cast a pale light on a ritual taking place in the chamber's center, where there lies a circular pedestal, five feet high and twice that in diameter, likely hewn from a large stalagmite. On the ground around the pedestal are a complex series of scribes and diagrams, likely part of the ritual underway. Rising from the pedestal is a massive, undead humanoid, easily 10 feet in height. It projects its arms outward and roars in a most unnatural, undead way, the sound a mockery of life itself.

Circled around the pedestal stand another dozen zombies, each facing the pedestal and shifting their weight in a jerky attempt at standing still. One zombie stands closer than the rest, actually inside the scribblings on the floor. This zombie beats a drum while staring dumbly at the ritual in front of it.

Finally, behind the pedestal stands one other. Unlike the rest, this figure doesn't fidget, nor does his body slump in the manner of the others. His hooded cloak hides his face, but judging from its pristine condition, the heroes suspect there is more than rotting flesh beneath it.

When the roar of the undead behemoth subsides, the hooded figure speaks, his voice deep, chilling, and distorted. "My glorious general," he begins. "With your arrival, my army is almost complete! Algoth be praised. Death to Westbank!"

The behemoth roars again, the circle of zombies takes a half step back, and the drummer continues to mindlessly beat his drum.
Lazaret
player, 394 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Mon 26 Mar 2018
at 17:20
  • msg #117

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 116):

"Whoa! That's a lot of zombies and whatever that thing is. Friends, at my best I could take eight, maybe nine of these guys, but that leaves too many for the rest of you. Perhaps we should fall back and draw them out. We could ambush them first on the stairs, then again at the rat pit. What say you?"

Noticing the gleam in Therarak's eyes, "Did you find something, little fella? Shiny somethings?"

Lazaret grabs Merris' ring and puts it on his finger with the other one. "It's like an awful little matched set."

12:20, Today: Lazaret rolled 15 using 1d20.  Arcana on the ring.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:21, Mon 26 Mar 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 339 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Mon 26 Mar 2018
at 17:22
  • msg #118

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 116):

Thorfire whispers...Laz, before you go off half cocked, perhaps we should do a little planning before lighting these guys up.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 133 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Mon 26 Mar 2018
at 17:24
  • msg #119

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 116):

Therarak stoops down and grabs the circlet and investigates it.

12:24, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Arcana.
DM
GM, 508 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 27 Mar 2018
at 01:28
  • msg #120

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Slipping the ring on his feline finger, Lazaret can feel a hint of arcane energy, a protective force of some sort. At the same time, however, there is also a dissonance that he can not resolve. He's heard tales of items that, in time, aligned themselves with their possessors. Perhaps this is an example.

Therarak, meanwhile, examines the headband previously worn by Malik. The center gem, he recalls, glowed brightly moments before it directed three beams of fire at Thorfire. Thereafter, the gemstone darkened. But now the intensity grows again, as if recharging with arcane energy.

OOC: The ring is a Ring of Protection: +1 to AC and saving throws, but requires attunement (a short rest spent studying). If worn long enough, it may attune itself to the wearer without rest.

The headband is a Circlet of Blasting, which is capable of (once per day) giving its wearer the power to cast scorching ray (3 beams, +5 to hit, 2d6 fire damage each). While it has already been used once in the last 10 minutes, Therarak has a strong feeling that it will be ready for at least one more use... maybe recharged by Lazaret's heat metal spell?

As the characters eye their new prizes, they also watch as the scene below continues to unfold. The hooded man turns to the drummer and signals for him to stop. He then orders the behemoth down from the pedestal. From the south end of the room, from what looks like doorway in the southern wall, four of the zombies struggle to carry another hulking corpse toward the  pedestal. It may be that the corpse is just that enormous, but the zombies seem particularly weak, struggling greatly with the task at hand. The four combined are barely able to do the job. As for the corpse, its size and shape resembles that of the ogre the heroes encountered a couple days ago on the southern road.

"Lay it there, just like the first one," the hooded man directs, his unnatural voice dripping with venom.

He pauses for a deep breath while the zombies clumsily position the body. The scene of the four undead weaklings struggling with a deceased ogre would be laughable if not such a mockery of life itself.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:49, Tue 27 Mar 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 249 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Tue 27 Mar 2018
at 03:07
  • msg #121

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador peers into the cavern.

"Hmmm. Looks like we've stumbled upon a little necromancer party. Twelve of them now but the longer we wait, the more there will be. And this is one case where I don't believe 'the more the merrier.' We need to act soon before there is another big guy to contend with. Laz, can you blast them? Thorfire, you want to sneak down and do your stabby stabby thing? Therarak, you're gonna need a bigger vial of acid. I'll try to take out the hooded figure from here with arrows and keep them distracted." whispers Celador quickly and calmly.

"And if the going gets tough, run like hell and alert the town." he adds with a wink.

So are we doing this? I did warn you that I am leaving town Thursday, right?
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 340 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Tue 27 Mar 2018
at 03:19
  • msg #122

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 121):

Whispering, I agree, maybe we should all attack from range and retreat to the stairs to set up another ambush.  I think we geek the mage.  If we are in agreement, I should go first to assassinate the bastard.  Any hit on a surprise creature is a critical hit.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:23, Tue 27 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 395 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Tue 27 Mar 2018
at 12:15
  • msg #123

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 122):

"I've already died once today. How bad could this get? I'm actually not much of a range guy, I prefer to get up close and personal, but I do have an idea or two....

"Thorfire, you sneak up there. I can make you invisible, just say the word. As you are about to strike, I'll light the everyone up - including you - unless you can dodge my spell. Once the spell takes effect, Celador and Therarak go to work.

"Meanwhile, I will disguise myself as one of the zombies. There are plenty of zombie costumes around here, not much left of Maria's robes I'm afraid. That might let me get a bit closer as well."
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 134 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Tue 27 Mar 2018
at 17:35
  • msg #124

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 123):

How about you cast thunderwave (assuming you have another spell slot).  I would use scorching ray, and Thorfire assassinates with his bow.  What say you my elf friend? Therarak whispers back.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:35, Tue 27 Mar 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 250 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Wed 28 Mar 2018
at 03:42
  • msg #125

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Does Thorfire have a bow? does it make more sense to thunderwave them? maybe we can do something to put them in position to hit as many at once. Advantage with FF is nice but a nice fireball would be awesome. I would prefer range attack for a better Plan B, but I can go down and act as a lure too. Maybe invisible or stealthy Thofire can sneak down and I distract them, bring them to the bottom of the ramp and then thunderwave, sneak attack, and acid/fire flasks? I have the most HP and if we concentrate on the mage and the big guy maybe we won't all die.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 341 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Wed 28 Mar 2018
at 03:49
  • msg #126

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 125):

I have a short bow, let's hit and run.  Shall we dance? I should go first to get a crit if I hit.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:50, Wed 28 Mar 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 251 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Wed 28 Mar 2018
at 04:45
  • msg #127

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Is Thorfire talking in character? I am trying to strategize OOC. I'd still like to get 10 zombies in a cube and thunderwave them back to death. I will "tank" as much as I can with a second wind and one last SD.
DM
GM, 511 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 28 Mar 2018
at 05:55
  • msg #128

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The four zombies around the pedestal continue to struggle to position the dead ogre at its center. The hooded man stands motionless while the remaining zombies fidget in place.

OOC: This post isn't intended to rush you guys - I just felt like I should post something. Take all the time you'd like to plan. Review your resources (magic items are listed in the experience and treasure thread) and available spell slots and crap like that.
Lazaret
player, 396 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Wed 28 Mar 2018
at 13:21
  • msg #129

Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 128):

Thorfire will attempt to assassinate the mage. I'll cast Faerie Fire on everyone down there just before he does. (His DEX should let him avoid it.) Celador and Therarak attack from range. Once they come up the ramp, we hold them as best as we can and I use my last spell slot to cast thunderwave on as many as possible, hopefully throwing them back off the ledge in the process.
DM
GM, 512 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 29 Mar 2018
at 02:59
  • msg #130

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret:
Thorfire will attempt to assassinate the mage. I'll cast Faerie Fire on everyone down there just before he does. (His DEX should let him avoid it.) Celador and Therarak attack from range. Once they come up the ramp, we hold them as best as we can and I use my last spell slot to cast thunderwave on as many as possible, hopefully throwing them back off the ledge in the process.

Solid plan. I will allow advantage on the DEX roll against Faerie Fire since Thorfire will know exactly when and from where it's coming.

So are we starting this now or waiting until Brian's back next week?
Celador Qiris
player, 252 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Thu 29 Mar 2018
at 05:39
  • msg #131

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Who is going first? You don't need to wait on me, I will just be a bit slower than normal. maybe give me 48 hours to post. The first hotel will have wifi fo' sho'. It is just a matter of posting from my phone - and taking time away from my family. There is a 7 hour time difference.
Lazaret
player, 397 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Thu 29 Mar 2018
at 13:57
  • msg #132

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 131):

Thorfire goes first - sneaking in. (Invisibility or not?) Let's go!
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 342 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Thu 29 Mar 2018
at 18:41
  • msg #133

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 132):

This will be fun, let's dance with the devil!  Thorfire pulls out his short bow, peers over the ledge and tries to assassinate the mage (hopefully he hits).

While the new hooded man is preparing for his ritual, an arrow streaks toward his face.

13:33, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 12 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 6,3.  Bow Attack. (Really, with advantage...pathetic)

Rolling damage, just in case his "lucky" roll hits...

13:36, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 13 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 6,4.  Short Bow Damage.
13:37, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 2d6 with rolls of 5,3.  Sneak Attack Damage.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 343 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Fri 30 Mar 2018
at 19:00
  • msg #134

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret:
In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 131):

Thorfire goes first - sneaking in. (Invisibility or not?) Let's go!

Speaking about let's go, is anyone going to post?
DM
GM, 515 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 31 Mar 2018
at 01:55
  • msg #135

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Thorfire Shortankard:
Speaking about let's go, is anyone going to post?

I KNOW!!! I'm totally ready to post, but have to wait for Celador, Lazaret, and don't forget Therarak!
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:05, Sat 31 Mar 2018.
Lazaret
player, 399 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Sat 31 Mar 2018
at 14:41
  • msg #136

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 135):

So...no to invisibility? (Only asked three times.)

I cast Faerie Fire.

See you all in a week.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 135 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sat 31 Mar 2018
at 20:31
  • msg #137

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 136):

Therarak will hold his action until he sees the effect of faerie fire...Meanwhile, he puts the Circlet of Blasting on his head.

We don't need your stinking invisibility, we are all attacking from range.  Use the spell slot for something else.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:35, Sat 31 Mar 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 253 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Sat 31 Mar 2018
at 20:54
  • msg #138

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Watching Thorefire send his arrow, Celador follows suit with one of his own.


22:49, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 5 using 1d8+4.  Damage.
22:49, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 11 using 1d20+6.  Attack c magic arrow.

I assume that is a miss. So much for surprising him

DM can reroll attack if it is with advantage
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 344 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Sat 31 Mar 2018
at 21:55
  • msg #139

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 138):

You didn't need to follow Thorfire quite so closely and miss too!
DM
GM, 516 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sun 1 Apr 2018
at 05:11
  • msg #140

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

While the heroes debate in whispers just inside the doorway, the hooded man and zombies make their final preparations. After a length of adjustments to the behemoth corpse, the four zombies begin to back away toward their original positions in the outer circle. At the same time, the hooded man steps toward the pedestal, sprinkles some kind of dust on the behemoth, and begins to mumble unintelligible words.

The drummer begins anew, mindlessly pounding as drool seeps from his open mouth.

The hooded man continues over the beat of the drums, but is stopped short as Thorfire's arrow strikes him in the shoulder. It falls harmlessly to the ground, but is enough to grab the intended target's attention. The hooded man peers up to the doorway, his face still hidden in shadow. "What?" he cries, his low distorted voice resonating through the chamber.

In the next instant, the green glow of faerie fire falls upon the pedestal and those surrounding it. Five of the seven figures standing there begin to emanate an eerie, green glow.

23:20, Today: DM rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Hooded Man Dex save vs. Faerie Fire.
23:21, Today: DM rolled 10 using 1d20-2.  Zombie General Dex save vs. Faerie Fire.
23:21, Today: DM rolled 16 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 2 Dex save vs. faerie fire.
23:22, Today: DM rolled 15 using 1d20-2.  zombie 8 dex save vs. faerie fire.
23:22, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20-2.  zombie 9 dex save vs. faerie fire.
23:23, Today: DM rolled 13 using 1d20-2.  zombie11 dex save vs faerie fire.
23:23, Today: DM rolled -2 using 1d20-4.  zombie drummer dex save vs faerie fire.

Celador then fires his longbow, but like Thorfire, his arrow strikes the hooded man, then falls to the ground without piercing his robe.

23:26, Today: DM, on behalf of Celador Qiris, rolled 11 using 1d20+6.  Magic arrow vs. hooded man (advantage).

Therarak still has an action this round if he'd like to take it.
The hooded man, zombie general, zombie drummer, zombie 9, and zombie 11 are alight with faerie fire.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 136 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sun 1 Apr 2018
at 14:06
  • msg #141

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 140):

Therarak steps up to the ledge and cast scorching ray at the hooded man...and two hits and one crit!  That's how it is done boys

09:01, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 25 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 1,20.  Scorching Ray.
09:02, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 24 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 19,15.  Scorching Ray.
09:03, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 24 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 13,19.  Scorching Ray.

09:05, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 27 using 8d6 with rolls of 6,1,2,5,1,6,1,5.  Scorching Ray Damage.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 137 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sun 1 Apr 2018
at 14:17
  • msg #142

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 141):

As a bonus action Therarak will pull out a vial filled with a bubbling, brown liquid from his satchel and he quickly drains the contents.  This one is kind of nutty...just in case we need to make a hasty retreat..  The Swift Step Draught increases his speed by 20 feet for 1 minute.
DM
GM, 520 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Mon 2 Apr 2018
at 04:18
  • msg #143

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

With the circlet fit upon his Svirfneblin head, Therarak attempts to decipher exactly how to work it. The band itself seems to snuggle perfectly across his brow and as it does, he feels the arcane power surging from his head, down through his neck, and from there outward through his shoulders toward his fingers. As this happens, the hairs on his arms stand at attention, crackling with a magical anticipation.

As he eyes his hooded target, he notices his vision blurring, a possible side effect of the circlet. But the blurriness clears as the hooded man starts to give off the green glow of faerie fire. Without knowing exactly what to expect, Therarak extends a single finger toward the necromancer and fire blasts from the digit when he does.

Three consecutive rays of fire flash across the chamber, ending in a nearly blinding explosion of fire and light. The hit evokes a painful roar from the hooded man, which starts as a low, reverberating rumble, but ends in a high-pitched, feminine screech.

As the dust clears, the result of Therarak's attack is revealed to all. There, on his knees, still glowing in fearie fire, the hooded man gasps for breath. His thick, hooded cloak is now nothing more than ash, falling away to reveal beneath it a battered figure in a dark, flowing robe. His eyes look up and glare at the four on the ledge. For the first time, the heroes stand face to face with the actual hooded man.

To their surprise, the face looking back at them isn't that of a man, but a woman!

And to their greater surprise, the woman before them is Sister Gwendelon!
Sister Gwendelon
NPC, 15 posts
Town Constable
Mon 2 Apr 2018
at 04:21
  • msg #144

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"Wretches," Gwendelon screams to the four in the doorway. "You'll pay for this interference with your lives!" She crawls behind the pedestal for cover but her screeching voice is still crystal clear.

"Destroy them!!!"

At Gwendelon's command, the zombies begin to move. Some, including the massive zombie general, head for the ramp to ledge. Others proceed toward the eastern wall. One, curiously, climbs atop the pedestal next to the unwoken behemoth. Some others fidget in place, but don't move anywhere.

The drummer continues to stand in place as well, beating on his drum with the same stupid look on his face.


OOC: Post round 1 actions! The hooded man Sister Gwendelon is injured, but under full cover behind the pedestal and a few of the zombies. All zombies are positioned as shown on the map.

It is about a 20' drop to the floor below. A successful DC10 acrobatics or athletics roll will get you to ground level for 5' of movement. Failure on the roll will cost you 2d6-1 HP of damage.

The circlet of blasting on Therarak's head is no longer glowing. Therarak gets the feeling it needs time to recharge.

Lazaret
player, 402 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Tue 3 Apr 2018
at 18:58
  • msg #145

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Sister Gwendelon (msg # 144):

"Your existence is a mockery to Pelor! You will not leave here with your head attached to your neck. And your friends smell terrible."

Lazaret casts vicious mockery on Sister Gwendelon.

13:56, Today: Lazaret rolled 4 using 1d4.  Vicious Mockery.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 347 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Tue 3 Apr 2018
at 21:08
  • msg #146

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Sister Gwendelon (msg # 144):

Thorfire moves along the ledge to get a clear shot with his bow on the good sister (F24).  Since she is casting green light due to Faerie Fire, he also gets to sneak attack with his bow. Die you ungrateful bitch!

16:03, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 17 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 4,11.  Short Bow Attack.
16:06, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3.  Bardic Inspiration (just in case a 17 doesn't hit).

16:07, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 7 using 1d6+4 with rolls of 3.  Short Bow Damage.
16:07, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 11 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,5.  Sneak Attack Damage.

As a bonus action, he will Dodge.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:14, Tue 03 Apr 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 138 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Tue 3 Apr 2018
at 21:21
  • msg #147

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Sister Gwendelon (msg # 144):

While grabbing a fire vial from his man bag, Therarak moves so he has better line of sight (G25) and lobes the vial in between Sister Gwendelon and Zombie #2 (perhaps Zombie #8 and the Large Zombie are within 5 feet too?!?).  All creatures must make a DC15 DEX save.

16:20, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 6 using 2d6.  Fire Damage.
Celador Qiris
player, 254 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Tue 10 Apr 2018
at 03:07
  • msg #148

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador reaches back and pulls an ordinary arrow from his quiver and quickly takes aim at the large zombie.

22:05, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 24 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Attack. with advantage due to FF

22:05, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 10 using 1d8+3.  Damage.

How close are the zombies? Celador will move back as they approach, keeping 40-50 feet between them.
DM
GM, 522 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 11 Apr 2018
at 04:25
  • msg #149

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

While huddled behind the pedestal, Sister Gwendelon winces as Lazaret's biting words catch her ear. From hands and knees, she screams at those immediately around her to provide cover, but her commands do little against the multitude of attacks against her.
22:54, Today: Sister Gwendelon rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  WIS save vs. Vicious Mockery.


Thorfire speeds along the narrow walkway for a clean shot at the necromancer. He draws back his bow, but stops as one of the zombies moves into his line of fire. The halfling almost calls off his attack, but a boost of confidence from Lazaret's recent words convinces him to try his luck at threading the needle. He aims for a tiny opening where he can still see his target. Just as he fires, the zombie shuffles directly into the flight path. Before he can curse his luck, however, the halfling sees his arrow fly straight through the zombie and into the side of the necromancer.

The zombie shield, having provided little in the way of cover as it turns out, falls to the ground with a groan.
23:12, Today: DM rolled 1610 using 21d20+3 with rolls of 7,6.  zombie 2 undead fortitude.

By this time, Therarak's vial is airborne and the necromancer can do little to avoid it. Upon impact with the ground, the vial explodes into flames, engulfing the robed wizard, her fallen undead shield, and the zombie perched atop the pedestal.

23:03, Today: DM rolled 127 using 2d20-2 with rolls of 5,9.  zombie 8 dex save vs alchemical fire (advantage due to separation).
23:01, Today: Sister Gwendelon rolled 184 using 2d20+1 with rolls of 3,14.  dex save vs. fire (disadvantage due to prone).
22:59, Today: Sister GwendelonDM rolled 5 using 1d20-2.  zombie2 dex save vs. alchemical fire.

But even if their presumed creator has fallen, the undead army carries out their final orders. The zombie general dashes up the ramp with club raised.Celador responds by sinking an arrow deep into the undead behemoth's side, but it keeps coming, followed by a trail of four others. On the eastern side, another zombie props a ladder against the wall and scurries up, followed by three more.

The curiously positioned zombie, now somewhat burned from Therarak's vial, stays atop the pedestal and the drummer continues drumming.

Post round 2 actions! Gwendelon and zombie 2 are dead. Zombie 8 and the General are wounded. All others are unharmed. Map is up to date.
Celador Qiris
player, 257 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Wed 11 Apr 2018
at 16:10
  • msg #150

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador sees the zombies climb the ladder to his right and quickly replaces his long bow with his shield and charges the zombies, attempting to push them off the ledge.

11:09, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 16 using 1d20+5.  Strength/Athletics. to push the zombie off the ledge
Lazaret
player, 404 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Thu 12 Apr 2018
at 00:33
  • msg #151

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 150):

"Let me help you, Celador!" Lazaret runs closely behind Celador with his paw on the elf's shoulder. "This is a great plan. We knock these down and the rest will chase us around and around and around!"

The instant Celador shoves the zombie, Lazaret casts Thunderwave pushing the others and knocking the ladder back down.

"Perhaps you should use your arrows to silence that drummer. It is such a dreary tune."


19:30, Today: Lazaret rolled 11 using 2d8.  Thunderwave.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 348 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Fri 13 Apr 2018
at 00:27
  • msg #152

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 149):

Savoring the kill, Thorfire spits toward Sister Gwendelon, Take that you bitch.  He then lines up the Zombie General and fires another arrow.  He retreats back toward the tunnel (H25) and attempts to hide in plain sight.

19:21, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 11 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 5,3.  Short Bow Attack.
19:25, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 7 using 2d6 with rolls of 4,3.  Sneak Attack Damage.
19:25, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 6 using 1d6+4 with rolls of 2.  Short Bow Damage.
19:27, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 24 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones with rolls of 16.  Stealth (Hide in Plain Sight).
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 139 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Fri 13 Apr 2018
at 00:36
  • msg #153

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 149):

Grabbing another fire vial, Therarak lobes it four feet past the Zombie General catching him and Zombie #5 in a fiery wave.  They must make a DC15 DEX Save or take fire damage.  He then disappears and moves back down the tunnel, whispering to his companions as he passes, Let's retreat down the tunnel and pick them off one at a time to thin down the herd.

19:35, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 4 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,2.
19:38, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 14 using 2d20+2 with rolls of 6,6.  Stealth.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:38, Fri 13 Apr 2018.
DM
GM, 525 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 17 Apr 2018
at 04:56
  • msg #154

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In a rush of bravery, Celador charges the first of the zombies coming off the ladder. The zombie braces himself for impact, but in so doing slips off the ledge and falls to the floor below (zombie 7 fumbled). The zombie behind him is no better prepared and falls back off the ledge with a bit of elfish encouragement.
22:41, Today: DM rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Zombie7 STR check vs. Celador.
22:43, Today: DM rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Zombie6 STR vs. Celador.
22:48, Today: DM rolled 3 using 2d6-1.  zombie 7 fall damage.
22:49, Today: DM rolled 10 using 2d6-1.  zombie 6 fall damage.

Not to be outdone, Lazaret casts a thunderwave in front of the remaining two zombies atop the ledge. The first is blasted from the ledge. Half of his rotten corpse splatters in a gray noxious fumes when hit with the thunderwave and the other half splatters upon impact with the floor below. The final zombie, still on the ladder, falls backward, pulling the ladder with him. He hisses a final farewell to undeath as he falls, abruptly ending with a squishy thud on the chamber floor.
22:52, Today: DM rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 3 CON save vs. Thunderwave.
22:58, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 11 CON save vs. Thunderwave.

On the other side of the opening, Thorfire hits the charging ogre zombie directly in the chest with an arrow. The vile undead beast roars in response and continues to charge with club raised.

Therarak follows with a vial of fire which grazes the charging ogre zombie and ignites the floor behind him, directly in front of two other approaching zombies. Those two have enough time to stop, but not enough intelligence. Instead, they both proceed into the flames, moaning uncomfortably as they do.

OOC: I made a ruling that (because the Zombie Ogre is faster than the others) there was never a time when they were 5' from each other (at least not when within the 30' range of a thrown vial). However, I also ruled that the vial burns for the entire round and (since zombies are stupid) there's a good chance they'll just keep coming. In the end, it's one additional zombie burned because Z1 also got to the danger zone.

23:11, Today: DM rolled 13 using 1d20-2.  Zombie Ogre DEX save vs. Fire.

23:13, Today: DM rolled -1 using 1d20-4.  Zombie 5  INT save vs. not walking into fire.
23:13, Today: DM rolled 4 using 1d20-4.  zombie 1 int save vs not walking into fire.
23:14, Today: DM rolled 10 using 1d20-2.  zombie 5 dex save vs. fire.
23:14, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20-2.  zombie 1 dex save vs fire.

On the lower floor, one of the zombies (Z10) disappears into the cave opening on the southern wall of the chamber. The zombie atop the pedestal begins to undulate wildly. Nearby, another zombie stands dumbly over the sinister sister Gwendelon.

And the drummer keeps drumming.

Post round 3 actions!
Map is up to date.
There are 5 zombies (including the big one) on the ledge and 5 more on the chamber floor.
Many are Z1, Z5, Z6, Z7, and Zo are wounded.
Z10 has departed through the southern archway (E24).
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 349 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Tue 17 Apr 2018
at 13:54
  • msg #155

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 154):

Successfully hidden (Stealth Roll of 24), Thofire waits until the Zombie Ogre goes after Celador and Lazarat and stabs him in the back as he passes the mouth of the tunnel.

08:47, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 17 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 11,8.  Rapier Attack.
08:47, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 1d8+4 with rolls of 4.  Rapier Damage.
08:48, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,3.  Sneak Attack Damage.

As a bonus action, he will dodge.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 140 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Tue 17 Apr 2018
at 13:57
  • msg #156

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 154):

Therarak (also hidden with Stealth roll of 14) waits for the Zombie Ogre to pass the tunnel and lobes an acid vial at his back (acid is not area affect).  The Zombie Ogre must make a DC15 DEX Save.

08:56, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 8 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,2.  Acid Damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:57, Tue 17 Apr 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 260 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Tue 17 Apr 2018
at 17:42
  • msg #157

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret:
We knock these down and the rest will chase us around and around and around!


"Laz, are you suggesting we play a little game of -- cat and mouse?" the elf replies, obviously amused by his own comment.

Moving counterclockwise along the ledge to stay ahead of the zombies, Celador takes his bow out again and draws an arrow aimed for the drummer.

"That is a dreadful display of percussion, I shall put him out of our misery."

12:36, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  attack with long bow. zombie drummer

12:37, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 8 using 1d8+3.  damage with long bow.

12:39, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 21 using 1d20+5. attack with advantage due to FF. (looking for that crit)

Move to J.31
Lazaret
player, 405 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Tue 17 Apr 2018
at 22:13
  • msg #158

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 157):

"That is the worst sounding drum ever! It sounds like you are playing it with your face. And your face looks like you've been practicing for a long, long time."

Lazaret casts Vicious Mockery on the zombie drummer loudly to keep the ogre zombie's attention as well. At the same time he moves counter clockwise with Celador.
DM
GM, 526 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 18 Apr 2018
at 04:51
  • msg #159

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador and Lazaret continue along the ledge, firing arrows and witty barbs at the zombie drummer as they do. Both land hits, and the heroes are thrilled to hear the drumbeats pause momentarily, but the undead percussionist returns to the job at hand, continuing with his drumming.
23:19, Today: DM rolled 9 using 1d20-2.  Zombie drummer WIS save vs. Vicious Mockery.
23:21, Today: DM, on behalf of Lazaret, rolled 4 using 1d4.  Vicious mockery damage.

The ogre zombie, meanwhile races around the ledge toward the elf and tabaxi. His progress is interrupted by a vial of acid and the stealthy blade of Thorfire. The halfling feels his rapier strike deep into the rotting flesh his opponent, but the massive rotting ogre doesn't fall. Instead, he growls and swings his spiked club wildly at his halfling adversary.

23:11, Today: DM rolled 2 using 1d20-2.  ogre zombie dex save vs acid.
23:14, Today: DM rolled 19 using 1d20+4.  Ogre zombie pointy club vs. Thorfire (disadvantage).
23:14, Today: DM rolled 6 using 1d20+4.  Ogre zombie pointy club vs. Thorfire (disadvantage)... good thing you decided to dodge!

On the floor, two zombies reestablish the ladder in its position against the wall while the zombie previously nearest to Sister Gwendelon stumbles toward the northern wall and begins to climb it.

Finally, the strange zombie atop the pedestal continues to undulate in a dark, menacing undead dance.

And of course, the drummer, with an arrow protruding from his shoulder, continues drumming.


Post round 4 actions.
Map is up to date.
Thorfire and Ogre Zombie are in melee.
Other zombies are closing in from the south.
Some (green on the map) are still glowing in faerie fire.

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:53, Wed 18 Apr 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 261 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Wed 18 Apr 2018
at 13:52
  • msg #160

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Frustrated that the first arrow didn't stop the drummer, Celador fires another shot and keeps moving along the ledge.

"Damn undead, die already!"

08:48, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 13 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  attack with long bow. advantage with FF

08:49, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 4 using 1d8+3.  damage with long bow.

move to G.32
Lazaret
player, 406 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Wed 18 Apr 2018
at 21:33
  • msg #161

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 160):

Lazaret casts Vicious Mockery on the Ogre Zombie hoping to distract it from noticing Thorfire and possible hurting him.

"You big fat prick! You were dumb and ugly in life, now you are dumber and uglier in the after life!"

He then scoots along the ledge to keep up with Celador.

22:01, Today: Lazaret rolled 1 using 1d4.  Vicious Mockery.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:02, Sat 21 Apr 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 350 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Thu 19 Apr 2018
at 00:21
  • msg #162

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 159):

Thorfire drives his rapier deep into the rotting flesh of the Zombie Ogre.  Hey guys, forget the drummer, can you help out with the Ogre?!? He shouts at his so-called friends.

19:18, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 20 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 14,14.  Rapier Attack.
19:19, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 6 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
19:20, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 7 using 2d6 with rolls of 5,2.  Sneak Attack Damage.

As a bonus action, he will again dodge.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 00:28, Thu 19 Apr 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 141 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Thu 19 Apr 2018
at 00:26
  • msg #163

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 159):

Trying to thin out the herd, Therarak throws a fire vial (5' area affect), engulfing Zombies #5 and #1 in bright flames.  They must make a DC15 DEX Save.

19:26, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 10 using 2d6 with rolls of 4,6.  Fire Damage.
DM
GM, 529 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 21 Apr 2018
at 05:32
  • msg #164

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador sinks another arrow into the zombie drummer, but the rotting percussionist simply continues. As he does, the strange zombie gesticulating wildly on the pedestal begins to glow in a sickening green hue.

Celador sees in front of him another zombie (still glowing in faerie fire) who has climbed to the ledge. The decaying form hisses menacingly at Celador and Lazaret as they approach. Behind them, two other zombies reach the ledge by way of the ladder and approach the elf and tabaxi along the ledge from the eastern side of the chamber.

Across the chamber, Therarak tosses another vial of alchemical fire at the approaching zombies, this particular batch explodes in a larger than usual ball of flames. The first of the approaching zombies clumsily sidesteps the fire, but the second takes it full on and collapses into the flames with a pathetic moan.
22:59, Today: DM rolled 15 using 1d20-2.  zombie 1 dex save vs fire.
22:59, Today: DM rolled 13 using 1d20-2.  zombie 5 dex save vs. fire.
23:01, Today: DM rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 5 undead fortitude.

As the flames begin to subside, a third zombie carelessly walks straight into the fire, adding himself as additional fuel, staggering, but still standing.
23:09, Today: DM rolled 2 using 1d20-4.  Zombie 4 INT save vs. walking into fire.
23:10, Today: DM rolled 5 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 4 DEX save vs. fire.

Lazaret's taunts from across the chamber catch the attention of the rampaging ogre zombie, although not as much as another deep cut from Thorfire's rapier. Nonetheless, the undead monster before the halfling still stands and swings his club wildly at Thorfire, missing the halfling by a good foot or more.

But that isn't to say the undead general doesn't land a hit, because he does. His club lands straight into the side of one of the other zombies. And while the blow doesn't kill the unintended target, it certainly staggers it, causing it to miss in its own attack against Therarak.

22:58, Today: DM rolled 9 using 1d20-2.  Ogre zombie WIS save vs. Vicious Mockery.
23:15, Today: DM rolled 7 using 1d20+6.  Ogre zombie pointy club vs. Thorfire (disadvantage).
23:22, Today: DM rolled 5 using 1d8+2.  Ogre Zombie inadvertent damage on Zombie 1.

23:23, Today: DM rolled 6 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 1 attack vs. Therarak.


Post round 5 actions!
Z2, Z3, Z5, and Z11 are dead... and Sister Gwendelon looks dead, too.
Ogre zombie has many holes in him, but still stands.
Z1, Z4, Z6 look heavily damaged.
Z7 is lightly wounded.
Z8, Z9, and Z12 are unhit... and Z8 is glowing a sickly green hue.
Z10 left through the southern passage.
The drummer is a literal pincushion, but keeps the beat.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:31, Tue 24 Apr 2018.
Lazaret
player, 407 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Sat 21 Apr 2018
at 12:57
  • msg #165

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 164):

"Finish the drummer, Celador! I'll get this one ahead of us."

Lazaret sidesteps Celador and leaps toward the zombie. His rapier slashes the undead foe wide open.

07:55, Today: Lazaret rolled 10 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.
07:55,

Today: Lazaret rolled 20 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.

22:18, Today: Lazaret rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack. (Forgot about adv)
This message was last edited by the player at 03:19, Mon 23 Apr 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 262 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Sun 22 Apr 2018
at 14:25
  • msg #166

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador quickly draws one of the magic arrows and fires it in another attempt to silence the ominous drumming.

"I hate that zombie," he mutters under his breath.


09:22, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 17 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only.  Attack. using +1 arrow and advantage with FF.

09:25, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 10 using 1d8+4.  damage with long bow.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 351 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Mon 23 Apr 2018
at 01:15
  • msg #167

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 165):

In case you haven't noticed, most of the zombies are over here, you jack asses.  We could use a little help..  Thorfire ducks under the Zombie Ogre seeking his putrid taint with his trusty rapier.

20:11, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 9 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 2,3.  Rapier Attack. (Seriously?)
20:13, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 6 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
20:13, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 9 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,3.  Sneak Attack Damage.

As a bonus action, Thorfire will hide in plain sight.

20:14, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 21 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones with rolls of 13.  Hide in Plain Sight.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:15, Mon 23 Apr 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 142 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Mon 23 Apr 2018
at 01:24
  • msg #168

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 164):

Winking at Thorfire he says, I'm going to change my appearance for a while...please don't kill me.

Therarak casts Disguise Self (Innate Spell) and turns into a zombie.  Hoping his ruse works, be slowly shuffles with an awkward gait down the tunnel (K23).
This message was last edited by the player at 01:28, Mon 23 Apr 2018.
DM
GM, 530 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 24 Apr 2018
at 04:50
  • msg #169

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret runs his rapier straight through the rotting figure blocking his way, however the gruesome zombie still stands, hisses, and swings an arm futilely at the faster tabaxi.
22:55, Today: DM rolled 6 using 1d20+2.  Zombie 9 attack Lazaret.

Celador, meanwhile, let's loose another arrow at the drummer, striking him in the chest. The target, standing now with four arrows protruding from his torso, staggers, his rhythm broken. He shuffles forward a step, beats the drum a final time, then falls upon his back, thankfully dropping his drumsticks as he does.
22:48, Today: DM rolled 8 using 1d20+3.  Zombie Drummer Undead Fortitude.

Atop the pedestal, the strange, undulating zombie, now glowing in a sickening green hue, points and arm toward the elfish bowman. A sickly green ray flashes out of his hand, sailing past Celador's ear and leaving behind a putrid stench.
23:00, Today: DM rolled 11 using 1d20+2.  Zombie 8 Ray of Sickness vs. Celador.

At the other end of the chamber, Thorfire continues his work against the gigantic ogre zombie, slashing him again, but still not bringing him down. This time, the halfling disappears into the shadows after his attack, and the befuddled zombies do not detect him.
23:12, Today: DM rolled 2 using 1d20-4.  Ogre zombie investigation vs. Therarak.
23:11, Today: DM rolled 1 using 1d20-4.  Zombie 12 investigation vs. Therarak.
23:11, Today: DM rolled -2 using 1d20-4.  zombie 4 investigation vs. Therarak.
23:11, Today: DM rolled 1 using 1d20-4.  Zombie 1 investigation vs. Therarak.

In fact, they see no opponents, only another one of them who seems to be leading them out of the chamber, perhaps toward more targets. In the fashion of mindless undead lemmings, the quartet follows the leader.
23:17, Today: DM rolled 9 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 12 look for Thorfire.
23:03, Today: DM rolled 10 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 4 look for Thorfire.
23:02, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 1 look for Thorfire.
23:02, Today: DM rolled 4 using 1d20-2.  Ogre zombie search for Thorfire.

The two zombies on the ladder proceed to the north in pursuit of Celador and Lazaret. The one in front is clearly hampered by his earlier fall from the ladder.

Meanwhile, the zombie from the southern passage returns, and he is now holding a larger drum. He doesn't play it, but shuffles toward the darkened pool in the southwestern corner of the room.

Post round 6 actions!
Z2, Z3, Z5, Z11, and the drummer are dead... and Sister Gwendelon looks dead, too.
Ogre zombie has many holes in him, but still stands.
He joins Z1, Z4, and Z12 in following Therarak out of the chamber.
Z1, Z4, Z6, and Z9 look heavily damaged.
Z7 is lightly wounded.
Z8 and Z12 are unhit... and Z8 is glowing a sickly green hue.
Z10 has returned with a drum of his own, but is thankfully not playing it...yet.

Celador Qiris
player, 263 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Thu 26 Apr 2018
at 13:04
  • msg #170

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The happiness at vanquishing the zombie drummer is short lived as the green zombie fires a blob of goo.

"Damn it," Celador curses as he draws another one of the magic arrows and takes aim at the new threat.


08:00, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 9 using 1d20+6.  Attack.

08:00, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 12 using 1d8+4.  Damage.

Assuming Lazaret throws the zombie off the ledge (hint) Celador will continue to move around the ledge to D.32 or is it possible to move past without and opportunity attack?

How many damn zombies are there?!?!
This message was last edited by the player at 13:08, Thu 26 Apr 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 354 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 23/31
Thu 26 Apr 2018
at 18:41
  • msg #171

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 169):

Seeing his adversary attempt to leave, Thorfire uses his reaction and his blade seemingly strikes out of nowhere.  Just die already, you foul creature!

13:38, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 13 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of {1}7,4.  Rapier Attack.
13:39, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 9 using 1d8+4 with rolls of 5. Rapier Damage.
13:40, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,5.  Sneak Attack Damage.

Just how many HP does this bastard have?  It must be close to really dying...
This message was last edited by the player at 18:42, Thu 26 Apr 2018.
DM
GM, 533 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Fri 27 Apr 2018
at 05:48
  • msg #172

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Thorfire's blade flashes out from the darkness and into the ogre zombie as he passes. The undead behemoth staggers, and the halfling assassin thinks for a moment that he has finally struck the decisive blow. But the rotting ogre still does not fall. Instead, he turns to find the halfling and strikes back with a vicious reply.

00:32, Today: DM rolled 24 using 1d20+6.  Ogre zombie pointy club vs. Thorfire.
00:33, Today: DM rolled 19 using 2d8+4.  Damage.

Ouch.

That was technically an add-on to round five.

All but Celador are still free to post a round six action.
Ogre Zombie and Thorfire are in melee.
All others are positioned as described in my last post.

Lazaret
player, 410 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Fri 27 Apr 2018
at 11:32
  • msg #173

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 172):

"This one is blocking the way, Celador. He's a bit big for me to push over the edge. I'll maneuver around him here and stab him like this! Maybe you can draw those other two over here. I've got one last surprise for them."

Lazaret goes around the zombie while still engaged.

06:28, Today: Lazaret rolled 37 using 2d20+5 with rolls of 16,16.  Rapier Attack.
06:28, Today: Lazaret rolled 9 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.
Celador Qiris
player, 264 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Fri 27 Apr 2018
at 17:34
  • msg #174

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

So can I move past the tabaxi and zombie dancing on the ledge or am I blocked here?
Lazaret
player, 411 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Fri 27 Apr 2018
at 21:02
  • msg #175

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 174):

You're blocked. But you can kill this guy and we're both loose.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 355 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 4/31
Sat 28 Apr 2018
at 20:31
  • msg #176

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 172):

It takes more than that to kill Thorfire, the world famous assassin!  Take that you bitch!

15:26, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 18 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 12,8.  Rapier Attack.
15:26, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 12 using 1d8+4 with rolls of 8.  Rapier Damage.
15:27, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 11 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,5.  Sneak Attack Damage.

Thorfire's blade sinks deep into the Zombie Ogre and just like before, he disappears into the shadows.

15:29, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 23 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones with rolls of 15.  Stealth (Hide in Plain Sight).
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 143 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Sat 28 Apr 2018
at 20:38
  • msg #177

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 172):

Seeing his companion take a crushing blow from the ogre, Therarak causally reaches into his bag and grabs a fire vial.  With a jerking zombie motion, he throws the vial at Zombie 12, hitting it and the Zombie Ogre in a fiery wave.  They must both make a DC15 DEX Save or take fire damage.

15:35, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 7 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,6.  Fire Damage.

Hoping the mindless zombies don't notice the lobed fire vial, he continues to move down the hall (N22) in his best imitation of a zombie "walking".
DM
GM, 534 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sun 29 Apr 2018
at 07:35
  • msg #178

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret stabs the glowing zombie in front of him with his rapier, deftly changing positions with the undead foe as he does. The decaying corpse falls with a groan, but rises back to his feet and swings futilely at the tabaxi.
02:04, Today: DM rolled 22 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 9 undead fortitude.
02:11, Today: DM rolled 8 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 9 attack Lazaret.

Celador fires another arrow, this one striking the undulating zombie atop the pedestal square in the chest. It crumples on top of the lifeless behemoth, discharging a second sickening ray, this one directed errantly toward the ceiling in a final release of necrotic power.

But with the pathway blocked ahead of him, Celador can only travel so far. His progress is not enough to escape the first of zombies pursuing from the east. It swings a rotten appendage at the elf, but misses.
02:16, Today: DM rolled 9 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 8 undead fortitude.
02:12, Today: DM rolled 10 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 6 attack Celador.


Across the chamber, Therarak lobs another vial of fire, this one in aid of his wounded halfling friend. Just as fire errupts on the floor, Thorfire himself springs from the shadows and lands another hit. This one runs straight though the torso of the ogre zombie, now partially ablaze. It falls to the floor with an chilling moan as it returns to the land of the dead. To Thorfire's relief, it does not move, but instead continues to burn into a noxious vapor.
19:25, Yesterday: DM rolled 12 using 1d20-2.  Ogre zombie Dex save vs. fire.
02:05, Today: DM rolled 6 using 1d20+4.  Ogre zombie undead fortitude.

And while the fire vial helps to finally put an end to the zombie general, it also points out to the zombie next to him that one of his supposed undead brothers is not an ally. That zombie (Z12) dashes toward the mysterious fire wielder even though the others are content to follow at their own pace.
19:26, Yesterday: DM rolled 1 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 12 DEX save vs. fire.
01:55, Today: DM rolled 13 using 1d20-4.  Zombie 1 INT vs. disguise.
01:55, Today: DM rolled -2 using 1d20-4.  Zombie 4 INT vs. disguise.

Finally, the zombie from the southern opening wades to about his waist into the dark water. With his drum partially submerged, he begins to pound on it, sending ripples across the pool. After a few drumbeats, bubbles start to break across the surface of the foul water.

Post round 7 actions!
Z2, Z3, Z5, Z11, the drummer, the dancer (Z8), and the ogre zombie are dead... and Sister Gwendelon looks dead, too.
Z1, Z4, are casually following Therarak out of the chamber.
Z12, now wounded by fire, is pursuing with malice.
Z1, Z4, Z6, and Z9 look heavily damaged.
Z7 is lightly wounded.
Z10 has returned with a drum of his own and is now playing it amid the swirling bubbling water.

This message was last edited by the GM at 16:40, Sun 29 Apr 2018.
Lazaret
player, 412 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Mon 30 Apr 2018
at 02:55
  • msg #179

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 178):

"Tough little booger. Take that!"

Lazaret stabs the zombie again then (assuming he falls) runs 30 feet counterclockwise around the ledge.

"Follow me Celador! This new drummer is up to something."

21:52, Today: Lazaret rolled 9 using 1d8+3 with rolls of 6.  Rapier Damage.

21:51, Today: Lazaret rolled 29 using 2d20+5 with rolls of 10,14.  Rapier Attack.
Celador Qiris
player, 265 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Mon 30 Apr 2018
at 03:30
  • msg #180

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Blocked from going further around the ledge, Celador turns to confront the on coming zombie as he attacks and attempts to shove the creature off the ledge.

22:27, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  athletics.

blargh. Hopefully the zombie rolls worse....
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 356 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 4/31
Wed 2 May 2018
at 00:37
  • msg #181

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 178):

Leaping over the smoldering mess that was the Ogre Zombie, Thorfire stabs Zombie #4 in the back.

19:33, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones with rolls of 2.  Acrobatics.

19:34, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 12 using 1d20+6, with rolls of 6.  Rapier Attack.
19:35, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 12 using 1d8+4, with rolls of 8.  Rapier Damage.

As a bonus action, he will hide behind Zombie #1

19:36, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 10 using 1d20+8, rerolling ones with rolls of 2.  Stealth (Hide in Plain Sight).
This message was last edited by the player at 03:35, Wed 02 May 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 144 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Wed 2 May 2018
at 00:42
  • msg #182

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 178):

Seeing the Zombie approaching at a faster than usual pace, Therarak move 10 feet down the tunnel, grabs a fire vial, and throws it into the face of Zombie #12.  With his swift step draught, he then moves an additional 30 feet down the tunnel (N18).


19:41, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 9 using 2d6, with rolls of 5,4.  Fire Damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:35, Wed 02 May 2018.
DM
GM, 535 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 3 May 2018
at 03:02
  • msg #183

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret runs the glowing zombie on the ledge through one last time with his rapier. The rotting target moans, spins on his heels, and falls from the ledge to the floor 20 feet below, allowing the tabaxi free passage around the ledge.
21:02, Mon 30 Apr: DM rolled 9 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 9 undead fortitude.

Blocked by the melee ahead of him, Celador turns to grapple with the pair closing in behind him. His attempt to push the first zombie from the ledge is unsuccessful as it stands firm in its position. It claws at the elf, but to no avail.
21:27, Mon 30 Apr: DM rolled 13 using 1d20+1.  Zombie 6 grapple with Celador.
21:32, Mon 30 Apr: DM rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 6 attack vs. Celador.

The second zombie, however, rakes a claw across Celador's side, drawing blood as it hisses eerily at his elven advesary.
21:33, Mon 30 Apr: DM rolled 23 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 7 attack vs. Celador.
21:33, Mon 30 Apr: DM rolled 7 using 2d6+1.  Damage.

The new zombie drummer continues to play, disturbing the surface of what is now a bubbling black pool. Celador, engaged with two zombies on the ledge, has little time to see, but Lazaret gets a good look at a winged figure emerging from the dark pool. As it rises, the liquid slides slowly from the figure, dripping in long oily tendrils. It extends its wings with a horrific shriek, flaps them once, and rises into the air above the pool.

To the south, Thorfire hops the remains of the zombie general and stabs the zombie ahead of him in the back. That zombie falls to its knees, but to Thorfire's surprise, it does not fall in a final end to its own undeath. Instead, it shrieks at the halfling and lands a hit of its own, staggering the halfling to within a hair's width of his own death.
21:06, Today: DM rolled 22 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 4 undead fortitude.
21:15, Today: DM rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 4 attack vs. Thorfire.
21:16, Today: DM rolled 3 using 1d6+1.  Zombie 4 damage.

The other zombie, hearing the melee at his back, turns and swings at Thorfire while he staggers. The proverbial halfling luck is with Thorfire, fortunately for him, and he is able to duck under the bloodthirsty zombie's attack.
21:17, Today: DM rolled 10 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 1 attack vs. Thorfire.

Therarak, hotly pursued by the final zombie, deals some fire of his own and watches as his target falls within the explosion. But this zombie too, draws on some undead power and rises again to its feet, pursuing Therarak even more quickly than before, hissing as he comes.
21:20, Today: DM rolled 3 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 12 DEX save vs. fire.
21:21, Today: DM rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 12 undead fortitude.
Zombie 12 will use a full move to catch up to Therarak. He cannot attack this round, but is close enough to be in melee for round 8, so ranged attacks or movement  without disengaging will draw an opportunity attack.

Post round 8 actions!
Z2, Z3, Z5, Z9, Z11, the drummer, the dancer (Z8), and the ogre zombie are dead... and Sister Gwendelon looks dead, too.

Z1, Z4, are in melee with Thorfire.
Z6, Z7 are in melee with Celador.
Z12 is in melee with Therarak.

Z1, Z4, Z6, and Z12 look heavily damaged.
Z7 is lightly wounded.
Z10 has returned with a drum of his own and is now playing it amid the swirling bubbling water.
A flying undead creature of some sort is now flapping above the pool.


This message was last edited by the GM at 03:24, Thu 03 May 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 266 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Thu 3 May 2018
at 04:46
  • msg #184

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador winces in pain at the zombie attack and with renewed determination he attempts to shove the zombie off the ledge once more.

"Laz! I could use a little help here!"

23:44, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  athletics.

Ha! beat that you little zombie p.o.s.!
Lazaret
player, 413 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Thu 3 May 2018
at 11:42
  • msg #185

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 184):

"Oooookay then. We'll just let that flying thing rise up and destroy us all. Where is the halfling and the little fellow?"

Lazaret moves back to Celador's position and stabs at the other zombie with his rapier.

"Never trust musicians!"

06:39, Today: Lazaret rolled 16 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.
06:39, Today: Lazaret rolled 5 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 146 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 27/27
Thu 3 May 2018
at 20:04
  • msg #186

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 183):

Assuming the bonus action issue is resolved (see OOC Thread), Therarak is 10 feet away from Zombie 12.  He grabs another fire vial and chucks it at his face.  Zombie #12 must make a DC15 DEX Save or take fire damage.

15:04, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 8 using 2d6 with rolls of 5,3.  Fire Damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:05, Thu 03 May 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 357 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 1/31
Thu 3 May 2018
at 20:11
  • msg #187

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 183):

Mother Fucker!  Reeling from the latest hit, Thorfire decides discretion is the better part of valor.

He will disengage from melee with the two zombies and dash (BONUS ACTION) back down the hall toward Therarak stopping short of the exploding vial (N20).
DM
GM, 538 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Mon 7 May 2018
at 00:18
  • msg #188

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Therarak separates from the advancing zombie, but he doesn't escape entirely unscratched. The zombie rakes a rotting claw across the deep gnome as he departs. The undead victory is short-lived, however, because Therarak makes use of the space between them to hurl a vial of alchemical fire, this time a finishing blow. The zombie falls in the flames, attempts to rise, then flattens to the floor amid a nauseating fog.
18:16, Today: DM rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  zombie 12 attack Therarak.
18:16, Today: DM rolled 3 using 1d6+1.  Damage.
18:16, Today: DM rolled 2 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 12 DEX save vs. fire.
18:18, Today: DM rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 12 undead fortitude.

Thorfire, still unsteady from his successful but costly battle with the zombie general, removes himself from the two zombies surrounding him and follows Therarak up the stairs. The nimble halfling arrives in time to enjoy the stench of the burning zombie on the top of the stairs.
The two zombies  (Z1 and Z4) pursue as fast as they can, but cannot catch Thorfire.



In the main chamber, Celador pushes his zombie opponent from the ledge. It falls with a thud, but to the elf's chagrin, it rises once again to its feet, hissing defiantly at his adversary.
18:29, Today: DM rolled 16 using 1d20+1.  Zombie 6 grapple with Celador.
18:30, Today: DM rolled 5 using 2d6-1.  zombie 6 falling damage.
18:31, Today: DM rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  zombie 6 undead fortitude.

Lazaret stabs the other zombie on the ledge with a deep, but not decisive attack. The zombie replies with a hiss and finds success with an attack of his own, raking his claws across the feline bard.
18:41, Today: DM rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 7 attack Lazaret.
18:42, Today: DM rolled 2 using 1d6+1.  Damage.

The second drummer continues his annoying work in the dark waters. The gurgling liquid to his right suggests perhaps another summoning is at hand!

Post round 9 actions!
Therarak took 3 damage and Lazaret 2 damage that round.
Z2, Z3, Z5, Z9, Z11, Z12 the drummer, the dancer (Z8), and the ogre zombie are dead... and Sister Gwendelon looks dead, too.

Z1, Z4, are chasing Thorfire (not engaged).
Z7 is in melee with Lazaret.
Z6 is on the floor below the ledge.

Z1, Z4, Z6, and Z7 look heavily damaged.
Z10 has returned with a drum of his own and is now playing it amid the swirling bubbling water.
A flying undead creature of some sort is now flapping at D31.

This message was last edited by the GM at 00:26, Mon 07 May 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 358 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 1/31
Mon 7 May 2018
at 00:49
  • msg #189

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 188):

Thorfire grabs his bow and drives an arrow into Zombie #4 for max damage!  Just die already!

19:46, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 20 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones.  Short Bow Attack.
19:47, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 10 using 1d6+4.  Short Bow Damage.

He then move 30 feet down the hall (N17).
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 148 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 24/27
Mon 7 May 2018
at 00:55
  • msg #190

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 189):

As Thorfire passes, Therarak reaches out, touches him and casts cure wounds.

19:55, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 8 using 1d8+5.  Cure Wounds Healing.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 359 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Mon 7 May 2018
at 00:58
  • msg #191

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 190):

Thanks my friend! Now let's kill this last zombie and get back into the fight.
Lazaret
player, 416 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Mon 7 May 2018
at 11:28
  • msg #192

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 191):

06:27, Today: Lazaret rolled 4 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.

06:27, Today: Lazaret rolled 8 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.
Celador Qiris
player, 267 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Mon 7 May 2018
at 15:59
  • msg #193

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Satisfied with the sound of the zombie hitting the floor below, Celador then turns his attention to helping the tabaxi fight off the next zombie.

10:58, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 14 using 1d20+5.  Athletics. shoving yet another zombie off the ledge...
DM
GM, 539 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 8 May 2018
at 01:48
  • msg #194

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Atop the stairs, Thorfire plunks one of the approaching zombies. It falls with an eerie moan and does not rise to its feet.
20:01, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 4 undead fortitude.

The halfling marksman spends no time gloating however, still weakened from his epic battle with the zombie general, Thorfire bounds up the hallway, heartened by the healing touch of Therarak as he passes the svirfneblin artificer on his way to temporary safety.

The final zombie in the passage, clearly weakened from repeated exposure to blade and flame, shuffles up the stairs to engage Therarak, but is too late to attack immediately.


In the chamber, Lazaret runs his blade through the remaining zombie on the ledge. It falls, but immediately rises again with something between a defiant hiss and a belch.
20:08, Today: DM rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 7 undead fortitude.

Celador, seeing the zombie rise to its feet, lowers his shoulder and drives it into the undead foe. It stands solid for a moment before eventually plunging off the ledge with another thud. But the frustration continues to mount for the heroes as the fallen zombie again rises to its feet, hissing and belching right alongside the other zombie he had pushed off the ledge. For now, at least, the pair is in no position to attack.
20:09, Today: DM rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Zombie 7 grapple with Celador.
20:12, Today: DM rolled 2 using 2d6-1.  Zombie 7 fall damage.
20:12, Today: DM rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 7 undead fortitude.

But attack does come from the air, as the winged undead swoops in and drives his claws into Celador. The pain is tremendous, and a shiver washes over the elf
20:23, Today: DM rolled 24 using 1d20+4.  Flying hissing undead #1 claw vs. Celador.
20:24, Today: DM rolled 12 using 4d4+2.  Damage. Ouch! Critical hit!

Though presently engaged with a new winged horror, Celador and Lazaret both notice a second one rise from the gurgling pool with a shriek of its own.

Post round 10 actions!
Celador took 12 damage that round.
Zombies are falling, but some keep standing up (stupid undead fortitude).
Z2, Z3, Z4, Z5, Z9, Z11, Z12, the drummer, the dancer (Z8), and the ogre zombie are dead... and Sister Gwendelon looks dead, too.

Z1, Z6, and Z7 look heavily damaged.
Z1 is chasing Therark (not engaged).
Z6 and Z7 are on the floor below the ledge.

Z10 has a drum of his own and is now playing it amid the swirling bubbling water.
One flying undead creature from the pool (F1) is engaged with Celador.
Another (F2) is hovering above the pool.

This message was last edited by the GM at 01:54, Tue 08 May 2018.
Lazaret
player, 417 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 17/23
Tue 8 May 2018
at 13:11
  • msg #195

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 194):

"Stop. That. Damned. Drumming!"

Lazaret, in a burst of speed, runs along the ledge and over to the edge of the pool. He casts thunderwave at level 2, silencing the drum and hopefully the drummer as well.

08:09, Today: Lazaret rolled 21 using 3d8.  Thunderwave.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 149 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 24/27
Wed 9 May 2018
at 19:18
  • msg #196

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 194):

Therarak steps back a bit, grabs a acid vial, throws it and hits the zombie in the groin.  It must make a DC15 DEX Save or take acid damage.

14:18, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 4 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,2.  Acid Damage.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:18, Wed 09 May 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 360 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Wed 9 May 2018
at 19:20
  • msg #197

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 194):

Feeling slightly refreshed, Thorfire launches another arrow into the zombie's chest.

14:19, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones with rolls of 2.  Short Box Attack.
14:20, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 10 using 1d6+4 with rolls of 6.  Short Box Damage.  Max Damage Again!
Celador Qiris
player, 268 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 25/36
Thu 10 May 2018
at 04:21
  • msg #198

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador grits his teeth as the pain of the winged creatures attack courses through his body. From deep within he summons his soldier's training and senses a burst of energy fight back against the pain. The elf drops his bow and draws his sword, striking back with anger!

23:14, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  attack with long sword.

23:14, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 11 using 1d10+3.  damage with long sword.

23:16, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 8 using 1d10+4.  Second Wind. Bonus action, regain 8HP.

@GM, I missed the zombie damage so I had to go back and double check your math. I had forgotten about the bardic inspiration and have not used it, thanks for the reminder. Is the winged creature within melee? Can Celador drop his bow and draw his shortsword and shield in one action? If not I will equip my shield next round and risk the 14AC
DM
GM, 543 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Fri 11 May 2018
at 05:35
  • msg #199

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

On the northern end of the chamber, Celador swaps out his bow for sword and shield and begins to battle the dark winged beast in front of him hand to hand. His sword strikes the beast and it emits an ear piercing shriek as it does.

The beast replies with a swing of his own, but misses Celador wildly.
00:00, Today: DM rolled 10 using 1d20+4.  Winged undead 1 claws vs. Celador.

Below on the chamber floor, one of the two zombies recently pushed from the ledge attempts to climb back into the melee, but is not successful.
23:58, Yesterday: DM rolled 4 using 1d20+1.  Zombie 6 STR roll to climb wall.

At the same time, Lazaret springs from the ledge, spinning through the air and landing softly on the chamber floor. Without hesitation, he darts for the darkened pool, which gurgles defiantly as he approaches. The tabaxi unleashes a thunderous explosion from his paws. The attack ripples across the water and disintegrates the drumming zombie, leaving no trace of zombie or drum. The flying creature overhead shrieks in blast, but manages to minimize the damage somewhat, although not entirely.
21:46, Yesterday: DM rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 10 CON save vs. Thunderwave.
18:59, Today: DM rolled 19 using 1d20.  Flying hissing undead #2 CON save vs. Thunderwave.

The chamber settles after the thunderwave and the gurgling pool calms. Before Lazaret can congratulate himself on silencing the drummer, however, the winged wretch from above descends upon Lazaret, landing in front of him and lashing out with his claws. The strike is effective, and Laz feels a chill wash over his body.
00:00, Today: DM rolled 23 using 1d20+4.  Winged undead 2 claws vs. Lazaret.
00:01, Today: DM rolled 7 using 2d4+2.  Damage.
Lazaret takes 7 damage and must make a DC10 CON save or be paralyzed for one minute!.


Atop the stairs, Therarak launches an acid vial at the final zombie in front of him. The rotting foe doubles over as the vial shatters against his lower midsection, releasing a pungent stench and a hissing vapor.
21:55, Yesterday: DM rolled 0 using 1d20-2.  Zombie 1 DEX save vs. acid.
21:56, Yesterday: DM rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 1 undead fortitude.

But the zombie doesn't stop, it straightens and takes another step toward Therarak. That steps proves to be his last, however, for Thorfire delivers a final arrow to the zombie's chest, collapsing the beast once and for all.
21:57, Yesterday: DM rolled 13 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 1 undead fortitude.
With all immediate foes vanquished, the halfling and svirfneblin enjoy a moment of rest before an inhuman shriek from downstairs reminds them that their work is not done.

Post round 11 actions!
Lazaret took 7 damage that round and must make a DC10 CON save or be paralyzed.
Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4, Z5, Z9, Z10, Z11, Z12, the drummer, the dancer (Z8), and the ogre zombie are dead... and Sister Gwendelon looks dead, too.

Z6 and Z7 look heavily damaged.
Z6 and Z7 are on the floor below the ledge.

One flying undead creature from the pool (F1) is engaged with Celador.
The other (F2, wounded for 10hp damage) is engaged with Lazaret.

This message was last edited by the GM at 00:04, Sat 12 May 2018.
Lazaret
player, 419 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 8/23
Fri 11 May 2018
at 13:06
  • msg #200

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 199):

07:36, Today: Lazaret rolled 16 using 1d20.  Con Save.

Option 1 - If the flying creature is dead...

Lazaret pauses briefly to admire the destruction he has created. "Hmm. Not bad." He then turns and moves to the body of Sister Gwendelon. "May Pelor have mercy on your soul." He then removes her head with his rapier.


Option 2 - if the flying creature is not dead...

"Shoo! You foul thing."

07:37, Today: Lazaret rolled 10 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.
07:37, Today: Lazaret rolled 8 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 362 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Sat 12 May 2018
at 02:37
  • msg #201

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 199):

Thorfire and Therarak dash back up the hall to help their friends.
Celador Qiris
player, 269 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 25/36
Mon 14 May 2018
at 03:48
  • msg #202

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

There is a glint in Celador's eye as the beast misses it's attack. He strikes the creature with a powerful blow of his own.


22:41, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 14 using 1d20+5.  attack with long sword.

22:42, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 11 using 1d10+3.  damage with long sword.

DM
GM, 546 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 15 May 2018
at 00:40
  • msg #203

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador's blade strikes true, slicing through the winged horror in front of him and drawing a ear-piercing shriek from the evil beast as it does. It flaps its wings violently spitting in rage as it exhales its final undead breath before collapsing on the ledge at the elf's feet.
With that confrontation ended, however, another one begins, for one of the two zombies on the floor below climbs the wall and rises to its feet behind Celador.
19:17, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Zombie 7 STR save to climb wall.


On the other end of the chamber, Lazaret swings and misses at the sinewy undead monstrosity in front of him. With a hiss, it strikes back with claws, chilling the Tabaxi with a second hit.
19:19, Today: DM rolled 16 using 1d20+4.  Winged undead 2 claws vs. Lazaret.
19:26, Today: DM rolled 7 using 2d4+2.  Damage to Lazaret.
Lazaret has to make another DC10 CON save or be paralyzed.

Thorfire and Therarak race down the stairs back toward the sound of the fighting. A few more seconds and they'll be there.

Post round 12 actions!
Lazaret took 7 damage that round and must make a DC10 CON save or be paralyzed.
F1, Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4, Z5, Z9, Z10, Z11, Z12, the drummer, the dancer (Z8), and the ogre zombie are dead... and Sister Gwendelon looks dead, too.

Z6 and Z7 look heavily damaged. F2 is also wounded.
Z6 is on the floor below the ledge.
Z7 is on the ledge behind Celador, but not yet in melee.

F2 is engaged with Lazaret on the floor by the pool.

This message was last edited by the GM at 01:23, Tue 15 May 2018.
Lazaret
player, 421 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 15, HP: 1/23
Tue 15 May 2018
at 00:50
  • msg #204

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 203):

Lazaret feels a numbness spreading throughout his body.

19:48, Today: Lazaret rolled 10 using 1d20.  Con Save.

"Nope! Nope! Nope!" He disengages and runs as far from the flying creature that he can. "That was too close!"

Lazaret runs to about I23 using my cats speed and climbing ability.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:52, Tue 15 May 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 270 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 25/36
Tue 15 May 2018
at 03:33
  • msg #205

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Once again the elf's satisfaction in defeating a foe is short lived as he sees a zombie crawl up onto the ledge.

"You again?!?! What is it with you undead?! Stay dead already!!" he exclaims as he turns and takes the business end of his long sword to the side of the head of the zombie.

22:31, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  attack with long sword.

22:33, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 4 using 1d10+3.  damage with long sword.
DM
GM, 549 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 15 May 2018
at 03:58
  • msg #206

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

OOC: With Lazaret retreating toward Therarak and Thorfire (to I23), the pursuing winged creature will follow (to I24) and allow the halfling and svirfneblin to make ranged attacks against it in round 12 if they so choose.

With only 25' of movement, they cannot close quite far enough to engage hand to hand this round, but they can get to J23 (Therarak) and K23 (Thorfire), which will give them clear line of sight.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 150 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 24/27
Tue 15 May 2018
at 14:51
  • msg #207

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 203):

Moving to J23, Therarak grabs an acid vial and lobes it at flying creature.  It must make a DC15 DEX Save or get burned with acid.

09:47, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 4 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,2.  Acid Damage.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 363 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Tue 15 May 2018
at 14:53
  • msg #208

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 203):

Moving to K23, Thorfire grabs his trusty short bow and shoots the flying creature in the taint.

09:52, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 24 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones with rolls of 18.  Short Bow Attack.
09:53, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 5 using 1d6+4 with rolls of 1.  Short Bow Damage.
DM
GM, 550 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 15 May 2018
at 18:58
  • msg #209

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador runs his sword through the stubborn zombie that, by his count, has been stabbed, thunderwaved, and pushed from the ledge at least twice before. This time, thankfully, it collapses in a pile of stagnant flesh, slides off the ledge to the floor twenty feet below, and does not rise.
22:40, Yesterday: DM rolled 5 using 1d20+3.  Zombie 7 undead fortitude.

But just like before, Celador has no time to celebrate, for by the time he sends one zombie to its final resting place, another has climbed the wall and approaches.
22:43, Yesterday: DM rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Zombie 6 STR roll to climb wall.

At the other end of the chamber, things look bleak for Lazaret. With vision blurring on the brink of unconsciousness, he darts away from the hissing fiend and his razor sharp claws. With a leap and a bound, he scales the wall and scurries into the next chamber, diving over the putrid remains of the zombie general and looking for cover.

His opponent is not discouraged, however. Emboldened by the taste of fresh meat, it spreads its wings and pursues, closing in on Lazaret with saliva dripping from its undead maw.

But as the tabaxi considers his scarce chances of surviving for more than another second, he takes solace in the fact that the wild events of the last few minutes seem to have attuned him to the ring he wears on his finger. While this is somewhat reassuring, he finds even more comfort in the sight of his pint sized friends racing into the chamber from its other side. Therarak opens with an acid vial that not only strikes the flying ghoul in the wings, but causes it to crash into the ground and roll in a hideous calamity.
13:11, Today: DM rolled 3 using 1d20+2.  flying hissing undead #2 DEX save vs. acid.

Thorfire, in turn, unleashes an arrow that sicks in the hissing opponent's shoulder. Clearly aware that the tables have turned. It flaps its wings frantically and backs out of the room, stumbling over the zombie general as it does.


Post round 13 actions!
Lazaret has achieved "attunement by fire" to the +1 ring of protection!
F1, Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4, Z5, Z7, Z9, Z10, Z11, Z12, the drummer, the dancer (Z8), and the ogre zombie are dead... and Sister Gwendelon looks dead, too.

Z6 (heavily damaged) is on the ledge behind Celador, but not yet in melee.

F2 crashed landed in I24 (shown by a gray F2 on the map), but has since retreated to H25 (shown by a black F2).
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:07, Tue 15 May 2018.
Lazaret
player, 422 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 1/23
Tue 15 May 2018
at 19:19
  • msg #210

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 209):

"That's right! Run away you hissing coward!"

Lazaret hisses right back before licking his wounds.

"He went that way, boys."

He casts Vicious Mockery - not much damage but DA on next attack.

14:16, Today: Lazaret rolled 1 using 1d4.  Vicious Mockery.
Celador Qiris
player, 271 posts
Fighter 4 | SD1d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 25/36
Tue 15 May 2018
at 23:35
  • msg #211

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador watches another foe fall only to be confronted with an enemy he thought he had already defeated.

"Again?! Are you !@#$% kidding me?!?!"

To a casual observer it would appear that the elf is quite annoyed at having to kill yet another undead.

"There! Now stay dead!"

Sensing that his friends may be in peril, Celador runs toward the corridor. (J.31)


18:32, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  attack with long sword.
18:33, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 9 using 1d10+3.  damage with long sword.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:42, Tue 15 May 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 151 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 24/27
Wed 16 May 2018
at 01:53
  • msg #212

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 209):

Therarak grabs another acid vial and throws it at the flying douchebag smashing it on his face.

20:52, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 4 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,2.  Acid Damage.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 364 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 9/31
Wed 16 May 2018
at 01:56
  • msg #213

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 209):

Sensing the flying creature is truly dead this time, Thorfire jumps over its acidic smelling remains and drives another arrow into the good sister.

20:55, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 23 using 1d20+6, rerolling ones with rolls of 17.  Short Bow Attack.
20:56, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 1d6+4 with rolls of 4.  Short Bow Damage.

If the flying asshole isn't dead, he will bury his arrow into that creature instead.
DM
GM, 551 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 16 May 2018
at 05:05
  • msg #214

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Seeing the backpedaling horror in front of him writhe in pain at Lazaret's verbal attack, Therarak senses the battle is finally near its conclusion. He digs another vial of acid from his satchel and strikes the winged fiend a final time. The ghoul wretches a cross between a shriek, a hiss, and a belch as it collapses to the floor in a sizzling pile.
23:36, Today: DM rolled 8 using 1d20+2.  flying hissing undead #2 DEX save vs. acid.

Thorfire wastes no time returning to the chamber and letting loose with an arrow at the fallen necromancer for good measure. The arrow strikes its target, and judging from its lack of response, the halfling assassin concludes that Sister Gwendelon has indeed been killed.

The final opposition stands in front of Celador, hoping in vain to get one last bite out of living flesh before falling alongside his undead counterparts. Its appetite is not satisfied, however, for the elf's sword strikes first, slashing deep into the zombie's rotting flesh, closing the curtain on its undeath.

A silence washes over the chamber and into the neighboring room. There is no gurgling of water, no shrieking or hissing or moaning, and best of all, no drumming. For the first time, the heroes can pause long enough to notice the putrid stench coming from what has become a literal pile of undead corpses in multiple locations. The scene is gruesome to the eyes as well as the nose, but their ears are rewarded with a blessed silence.

End of combat!
Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4, Z5, Z6, Z7, Z9, Z10, Z11, Z12, the drummer, the dancer (Z8), and the ogre zombie are dead.
F1 and F2 (flying ghouls) are both dead.

...And Sister Gwendelon, aka the hooded man, is also dead.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:10, Wed 16 May 2018.
Lazaret
player, 423 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Wed 16 May 2018
at 11:46
  • msg #215

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 214):

Lazaret stumbles back into the main room and sits down on the ledge.

"That was just awful."

He reaches into his pack and removes a smallish rock and some dirt.

"Well. What did you think of that, Cornelius? Have a little snack while I have a little rest."

Surveying the room and his companions, Lazaret makes eye contact with Celador.

"Didn't see that coming, did you? I never trusted her. She reminded me too much of a woman I knew from Waterdeep. Seemed to have it all together. Beautiful. Great butt. Turned out she was a necromancer. Well not really a necromancer, but she liked sneaking around at night. Really liked it a lot actually."

Lazaret smiles and winks at Celador then begins singing a song of rest about a woman who done him wrong.

After a while, a short rest while, he says "Time to see if this adventure pays off or if this was all pro bono. Let's see what the late good sister is hiding."

Lazarat puts Cornelius back in his pack and climbs down to search the room.

06:36, Today: Lazaret rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3.  Song of Rest.
06:36, Today: Lazaret rolled 16 using 4d8 with rolls of 5,5,2,4.  Hit Dice.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 366 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 4
AC:16, HP: 25/31
Wed 16 May 2018
at 21:15
  • msg #216

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 215):

Thank you my brother for the excellent and refreshing song.  You are a noble fellow...for a cat.  Taking out his dagger, he removes Sister Gwendelon head and put it into the bag of holding.  With a wink, he says What?!? We will need proof of her treachery...

16:12, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 13 using 2d8+4 with rolls of 4,5.  Hit Dice.
06:36, Today: Lazaret rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3.  Song of Rest.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:20, Wed 16 May 2018.
DM
GM, 554 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 17 May 2018
at 04:26
  • msg #217

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

With the battle concluded, the heroes do their best to find a safe place to rest that isn't polluted with the stench of rotting zombie flesh. Lazaret lends a song, which seems to help with the recovery.

After resting, they take their first close look at the former constable of Westbank, now crumpled near a team of fallen zombies. Gwendelon looks older, more haggard than when they met her in Westbank. There are dark bags under her eyes and a scowl that, even after life, sends a chill down the spine of any who looks upon it.

As Thorfire proceeds with the dubious task of claiming a receipt (a very bloody one at that) for their actions, the heroes wonder whether or not Westbank will believe them. Certainly Gwendelon was well respected in the village. Therarak also considers how to best remove blood stains from the inside of the bag, but he figures there will be plenty of time in the future to determine such things.

Lazaret searches the body and finds an assortment of crude jewelry on the Sister. Instead of the symbology of Pelor (most often a sun), the jewelry centers on a hand with an eye in its palm (all can try a DC15 arcana check for more info). While most of the jewelry looks worthless, a single necklace contains (in place of the eye in the eyeball in palm of hand motif) a bright ruby that the tabaxi suspects will fetch a good price once removed from its grotesque outer ornamentation.

Various pouches on the necromancer contain an assortment of mundane material components, but one pocket in her robe contains a small, smooth, black stone embedded with the image of a calling crow, beak open and facing to the right (DC15 arcana check for more info).
Lazaret
player, 425 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Thu 17 May 2018
at 14:32
  • msg #218

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 217):

As Lazaret investigates the items on Gwendelon's body he muses out loud.

"So she wasn't a follower of Pelor after all. Too bad. He's pretty good for a non-cat diety. Here, Thorfire. Check out this symbol. Imagine if you had eyes on your hands. I bet they'd poke themselves out after seeing what you'd have shown them.

"Here's an interesting black stone. I wonder what it is? Oh! I think I'll keep this for now. Keep it company for now, Cornelius." Lazaret pockets the stone with the crow on it.

His curiosity then turns to the hallway to the north. "I wonder where this leads. Anyone coming with me?"

09:26, Today: Lazaret rolled 16 using 1d20.  Arcana (Black Stone).

09:26, Today: Lazaret rolled 4 using 1d20.  Arcana (Hand & Eye symbol).

OOC - I am assuming we have checked over the bodies of the undead as well.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 367 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Thu 17 May 2018
at 21:32
  • msg #219

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 218):

Rogues are usually known for their arcana, so Thorfire gives the jewel a once over.  Yep, it looks like a jewel with some sort of symbol.

16:30, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 14 using 1d20-1, rerolling ones.  Arcana.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:32, Thu 17 May 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 152 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 24/27
Thu 17 May 2018
at 21:43
  • msg #220

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 217):

Here, give me that!  I am a Gemfinder after all...I should be able to determine the nature of this stone..  Therarak, thoroughly examines the gem....

16:43, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  Arcana.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:44, Thu 17 May 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 272 posts
Fighter 5 | SD4d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 44/44
Fri 18 May 2018
at 18:31
  • msg #221

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

As the last of the undead falls, Celador finally experiences satisfaction that comes from slaying ones foes in battle once and for all.

13:25, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 15 using 2d10+2.  hit dice.

+3 for song of rest = 18 total HP. Or does leveling up negate the need for healing?

short rest also regains expended superiority dice


Feeling somewhat refreshed, Celador sits down amongst his companions and takes a look at the symbology on the late constables jewelry.

13:15, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 11 using 1d20-1.  Arcana.


"hmmm, not sure I've seen that symbol before, looks vaguely familiar but I can't say I know what it is."

He gestures towards the doors in the lower level of the chamber, "What do you think is in there?"

He walks over and takes a closer look.

moves to G.32

13:27, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 22 using 1d20+3.  perception.
DM
GM, 556 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sun 20 May 2018
at 01:36
  • msg #222

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret recognizes the stone with the cawing raven as a sending stone. Presumably there is a seconds one somewhere, although the heroes are unable to find it on the multitude of bodies scattered about the two chambers where their battle just ended.

They then take turns examining the palm and eye, but none are able to determine its meaning.

Finally, Celador steps into the silent northern corridor. The passageway is torchlit, proceeding northeast for about 15 feet before bending to the right and out of sight.


OOC: Can't level up until long rest, so feel free to burn hit dice as needed over your short rest.
Lazaret
player, 427 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Sun 20 May 2018
at 13:12
  • msg #223

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 222):

"After all that noise, what's the worst that could possibly be waiting for us in here?" Lazaret asks Celador as he moves into the dark hallway.

Lazaret proceeds carefully checking for traps until he finds something interesting.

08:13, Today: Lazaret rolled 9 using 1d20+6.  Perception. (Passive = 16)

This message was last edited by the player at 13:13, Sun 20 May 2018.
DM
GM, 557 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sun 20 May 2018
at 21:57
  • msg #224

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret proceeds up the hallway around the bend. It stretches eastward for about 40 feet before a side passage to the north branches off, ending in a door. Another passage turns off to the south shortly thereafter. Ahead, the passageway veers slightly to the south and out of sight.
Lazaret
player, 428 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Mon 21 May 2018
at 03:13
  • msg #225

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 224):

Lazaret cautiously checks the door for traps before opening it.

22:12, Today: Lazaret rolled 18 using 1d20+5.  Disarm Trap / Open Door.

22:12, Today: Lazaret rolled 22 using 1d20+6.  Check for Traps.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 368 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Tue 22 May 2018
at 16:19
  • msg #226

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 224):

Thorfire and Therarak follow the cat and the elf.
DM
GM, 558 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 23 May 2018
at 04:29
  • msg #227

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret tries the door and it opens without issue. Behind it, he finds a musty, dimly lit chamber containing a bed, a desk, and a chair. The desk is locked, but a stack of papers sits atop it and a backpack sits on the floor between it and the foot of the bed.

Among the papers is a thin ledger containing a table of sorts.

     Day   Delivered   Transfrmd   Active  Deceased   Disposed
     31            2            0           28          10         0
     32            0            2           30           7         3
     33            0            0           29           8         0
     34            5            2           31           9         2
     35            0            3           32           11        0
     36            0            0           30           11        2
     37            0            0           29           12        0
     38            0            0           29           11        1
     39            0            0           28           12        0
     40            0            0           26           13        1
     41            0            0           26           11        2
     42       Invasion from outside. Seal off chamber and repel or return to Westbank and await instruction.
     44      F#$%ing halfling stabbed me, but he'll hang for it now. Additions to the count tomorrow. Gwendelon will try transforming a general.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:37, Wed 23 May 2018.
Lazaret
player, 429 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Wed 23 May 2018
at 11:39
  • msg #228

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 227):

"Here, Celador. What do you make of this? I was told there would be no math.

"Thorfire, can you open this desk? I'll check down the hall."

Lazaret heads back down the hall to see what else is here.
DM
GM, 559 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 24 May 2018
at 03:28
  • msg #229

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret hands the curious ledger to Celador and heads back to the hallway. He finds the passageway to the east quickly deteriorates into an impassable, collapsed tunnel. By a quick look at the dust on the floor, he concludes no traffic has passed that way in a long time.

The passageway to the south, however, goes little more than 10 feet before ending in a solid wooden door. This one, in contrast to the one that opened into the small bedchamber containing the ledger, is locked (DC 13 STR/Athletics roll to break it down).
Lazaret
player, 430 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Thu 24 May 2018
at 03:36
  • msg #230

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 229):

"What is this. Locked. Thorfire would just pick the lock. I can probably do that, but he would feel bad if I tried without him. Maybe if I just put a shoulder to it...Would that upset Celador? He is the strongest of us all, but his ego is delicate. What would he do? Probably take a step back. Bend his knees thusly. Then run full out!"

Lazaret charges the door.

22:33, Today: Lazaret rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Strength - Athletics.

"I'll be damned!"
DM
GM, 560 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 24 May 2018
at 04:01
  • msg #231

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret lowers his shoulder into the wooden door and breaks the latch will surprising ease. His momentum carries him a few paces into what appears to be another bed chamber, this one larger, neater and more ornately furnished. The chamber is roughly circular, twenty-five feet in diameter. A heavy tapestry runs along the west and southern walls. On the western side of the room, underneath a stack of books, sits a desk with a wooden chair behind it. A wall protrudes from the eastern edge of the chamber, behind which stands a well kept bed.

North of the wall and visible from the doorway is a small wooden crate. Inside Lazaret sees the clothes, boots, and sundry belongings of Sister Gwendelon, carelessly strewnstored there (a disguise of sorts) for when the hooded man returned to Westbank.
Lazaret
player, 431 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Thu 24 May 2018
at 11:32
  • msg #232

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 231):

"This makes more sense now. She was into dress up games. Let's see what else is in here."

Lazaret thoroughly searches the room looking for items of value, information, and secret compartments.

06:32, Today: Lazaret rolled 8 using 1d20+6.  Perception. (Passive = 16)
This message was last edited by the player at 11:33, Thu 24 May 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 369 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Thu 24 May 2018
at 20:12
  • msg #233

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 227):

Thorfire checks the desk for traps and picks the lock.

15:11, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 9 using 1d20+7, rerolling ones.  Checking for Traps.
15:12, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 14 using 1d20+7, rerolling ones.  Pick Lock.
DM
GM, 561 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Fri 25 May 2018
at 01:40
  • msg #234

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Thorfire fishes out his toolkit and attends to the lock on the desk's top drawer. The mechanism is simple and the halfling has it defeated with little time or effort. Inside the drawer he finds a handful of copper pieces mixed in with a collection of random jewelry, most of it worthless, but a few items (two rings and a necklace) that may fetch a few coins back in Westbank.

Alongside the jewelry is a pair of strange gloves, deep blue in color and trimmed in a gold design on the fingers, back of the hand, and all the way up the cuff, which by the looks of it would extend past the halfling's elbow.

He also finds a black stone with a similar design to the one in sister Gwendelon's pocket. The cawing crow on this stone, however, faces to the left.



In the other chamber, Lazaret digs to the bottom of the clothing container, but finds nothing more of interest. Most of the books on the desk are in an unknown language, but more than one contain the image of an eye in the palm of a hand. There is a single book dedicated to Pelor, the god of sun, light, strength, and healing. It occurs to Lazaret that this text was most likely for Gwendelon to study for her "part" as a noble citizen of Westbank.

Her desk, like in the other chamber, is locked.
Celador Qiris
player, 273 posts
Fighter 4 | SD4d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Fri 25 May 2018
at 03:40
  • msg #235

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador takes the piece of paper from Lazaret and and carefully examines it.

"It appears to be a ledger with a table of sorts." he says to no one in particular.

"Something about deliveries. Food and supplies, maybe? But then there is something about transformed and deceased, so something they were tracking died. Livestock? What could it mean 'Active'? I don't know." and he continues to ponder

"Ha, it must have been written by that first bugger, Malik, it mentions you, Thorfire, well not directly. Says you'll hang for stabbing him. Oh well, guess he got that wrong.

Celador walks over to take a look at what Thorfire is doing and folds the paper and puts it in his pocket.

"What have you got here?" he wonders, noticing the deep blue gloves.

Sheesh guys. RL is a little busy for a week and you publish a novel with out me.
Lazaret
player, 432 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Fri 25 May 2018
at 15:58
  • msg #236

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 235):

Lazaret returns to the first room where his companions are searching.

"Thorfire, there is a desk in the other room that could use your skills...what did you find? That stone looks surprisingly like mine. And those gloves. They are fabulous. Do you suppose there is more of an outfit to go with them somewhere? I found some of the Good Sis, the Bad Sister's clothes over there. Are you going to try those gloves on? The won't fit in the conventional sense, but they made a bold statement on a man of your stature. Not a good statement, mind you."

"Celador? What do you make of that list? I'm sure the guards at Westbank will want to see it. Pretty damning, I'd say. How many 'active' does it say? I suppose we finished most of them, right? You got three, the little guys got two, and I got let's say 14. That about right?"

"And, by the way, I still suspect that the guy who talked funny and kept that blue thing had something to do with this. What was his name again and where did he go? We should check all these rooms for the blue fellow. An odd sort he was."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:14, Fri 25 May 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 370 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Fri 25 May 2018
at 16:14
  • msg #237

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 234):

He absentmindedly grabs the coins and jewels and slides them into his pocket.  Using his mighty intellect, Thorfire examines the gloves.

11:11, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 8 using 1d20-1, rerolling ones.  Arcana.

Over his shoulder, Therarak also looks at the gloves and black stone.

11:12, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Arcana - Gloves

Let me see the black stone.

11:14, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Arcana - Black Stone
This message was last edited by the player at 16:15, Fri 25 May 2018.
Lazaret
player, 433 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Fri 25 May 2018
at 17:32
  • msg #238

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 237):

While Therarak is inspecting the stone Lazaret whispers into his own "Hello little grey one."
DM
GM, 562 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 26 May 2018
at 13:38
  • msg #239

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

After careful examination, Thorifre concludes that there are two gloves, one designed to fit on the left hand and the other on the right.

Therarak recognizes them as Gloves of Missile Snaring (DC13 INT/Investigation roll will tell you one more interesting (but not critical to know) thing about them), allegedly allowing the user to catch arrows, crossbow bolts, etc. He's heard that it may take the wearer some time to grow accustomed, so warns against any immediate tests (i.e. requires attunement).

As Lazaret tests his own sending stone, he feels it warm ever-so-slightly as he speaks. At the same time, the stone in Therarak's hand also warms and the svirfneblin hears a familiar voice in his head.
Lazaret:
"Hello little grey one."


Neither Thorfire nor Celador hear anything... this may be because they are not holding the second stone or simply because they are better at tuning out the ramblings of the loquacious tabaxi.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:42, Sat 26 May 2018.
Lazaret
player, 434 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Sun 27 May 2018
at 20:59
  • msg #240

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 239):

"There is a desk in the next room. And also a bed. Perhaps after exploring here, we can rest.

"Celador, let's go to the door on the South side of the big room. These two can check out the desk and bed.

"Call me when you find something, Thererak!"
Celador Qiris
player, 276 posts
Fighter 4 | SD4d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Fri 1 Jun 2018
at 04:39
  • msg #241

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"Those do look like nice gloves, I'm not sure they are a good fit for halfling or gnome hands, or cats....paws. Let me see how they fit the hands of an elf" and he picks up the gloves and puts them on.

"ooooo, nice."

Celador leaves with Lazaret to examine the door on the south side of the main room.

"So Laz, what will the fine people of Westbank think when we tell them the truth of their constable? Maybe I could apply for the job as new town constable. My military training does offer some attributes that people might find quite attractive in an officer of the law," the elf raises his gloved hand to stroke his chin as he ponders a life in Westbank...settle down, find a wife, a good elven woman would be hard to find, maybe Mattis would do nicely, she is a good cook, easy enough on the eyes, looks to be firm in the places where it is good to be firm and soft enough in the soft places, I wonder if she smells of sage and rosemary all the time or only after cooking, she'll probably want to have kids, and we won't stop at one or two, maybe after four or five or six we'll realize that more kids wasn't the solution and that she will always resent my elven heritage and I will have contempt for being forced to remain in this town and feel forced to accept a station in life that is below me, and it will all end horribly with a meat cleaver...

"yes, you're right Laz. It's probably not the right gig for me right now. We should start a band of adventurers!" he says as he snaps out of his momentary day dream.
Lazaret
player, 439 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Fri 1 Jun 2018
at 20:46
  • msg #242

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 241):

"You hairless folk are so funny in the way you complicate relationships. Seriously. Do some caterwauling in an alley somewhere. Meet someone interested. Boom boom. Meow meow. Move along.

"And those gloves look ridiculous on you. I like you enough to be honest about that.

"Now let's see what else is hidden in this cave."
DM
GM, 566 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Tue 5 Jun 2018
at 03:57
  • msg #243

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

As the diminutive duo of Therarak and Thorfire sort through the pair of chambers on the northern end of the cavernous central chamber (OOC: there is a full backpack in Malik's chamber and a so far unexplored desk and bed in Sister Gwendelon's chamber), Celador and Lazaret return to the site of their final battle to explore the southern passageway. The foul stench hanging in the air triples as they move into the tunnel. It proceeds about 15 feet before widening into a room. The scene there is sickening, to say the least. Strewn across the entirety of the small chamber is an assortment of zombie corpses, rotting into a nauseating fog that hangs in the air. The bodies are earlier, failed attempts at resurrection by Sister Gwendelon, piled here like so much garbage.

Standing behind one of the piles, a single undead creature feasts on a rotting arm of one of the zombies. His eyes dart up from his feast and fixate on the elf and tabaxi. It shrieks at the interlopers and charges.


Lazaret and Celador, post round 1 actions!
Celador Qiris
player, 277 posts
Fighter 4 | SD4d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Tue 5 Jun 2018
at 04:17
  • msg #244

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"AAAHH!" the surprised creature also surprises the elf, who quickly draws his sword.

does Celador recognize this creature?

23:07, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 17 using 1d20-1.  Nature.

The vile creature catches him off-guard and he swings and misses.

23:16, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  attack with long sword.
Lazaret
player, 440 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Tue 5 Jun 2018
at 13:14
  • msg #245

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 244):

"Oh hell! Here we go again."

Lazaret charges the fetid foe with both blades swinging wildly. His rapier hits hard and the dagger sinks deeply into the creature's chest.

"Something more like that, Celador. You can do it. Bend your knees and use your weight to push through."

Lazaret gives Celador Bardic Inspiration.


08:08, Today: Lazaret rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.
08:08, Today: Lazaret rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Dagger Attack.
08:09, Today: Lazaret rolled 7 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.
08:09, Today: Lazaret rolled 2 using 2d4 with rolls of 1,1.  Dagger Damage (Offhand).

Thorfire Shortankard
player, 372 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Tue 5 Jun 2018
at 21:39
  • msg #246

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

DM:
(OOC: there is a full backpack in Malik's chamber and a so far unexplored desk and bed in Sister Gwendelon's chamber)


Thorfire rifles through Malik's backpack for something interesting, then proceeds to search the good Sister's bed and desk.

16:37, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 11 using 1d20+7, rerolling ones.  Checking for Traps in Sister Gwendelon's desk.
16:38, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 20 using 1d20+7, rerolling ones.  Pick Lock on desk drawer.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:40, Tue 05 June 2018.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 153 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 24/27
Tue 5 Jun 2018
at 21:43
  • msg #247

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 241):

Hey asshole, who said you can swipe the gloves from my hands.... Therarak grabs a fire vial and considers chucking at the elf's overgrown head just to see how the elf likes to get burned....but after a second his lawful good nature requires him to place the vial back into his satchel.

Therarak checks for secret chambers in both Malik's room as well as Sister Gwendelon's room.

16:47, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  Perception Malik's Room
16:47, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 20 using 1d20+3.  Perception Sister Gwendelon's room
This message was last edited by the player at 21:47, Tue 05 June 2018.
DM
GM, 568 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 6 Jun 2018
at 04:09
  • msg #248

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Although the charging ghoul sidesteps Celador's attack with ease, he cannot dodge the twin blades from Lazaret. Hissing in pain, the undead creature rakes back at the tabaxi, but misses wildly.
22:44, Today: DM rolled 12 using 1d20+4.  Ghoul claws vs. Lazaret.
Lazaret and Celador, post round 2 actions!

-------------------------------

In the northern chambers, Therarak picks through the backpack and finds it full of silver and gold. In total, there are 150 pieces of each. The svirfneblin also notes a small side pocket inside of which are a pair of dice. Although they look like they go together, one of the two is a bit shinier than the other one (maybe a DC13 arcana roll?).

In the other chamber, Thorfire finds a simple catch on the desk and disarms it with relative ease. Inside are a stack of papers mostly covered with unrecognizable scribblings. Also, there is a journal, depicting Gwendelon's activities and many references to someone or something called Vecna.

As Thorfire pages through the journal, Therarak finds a secret door behind the necromancer's bed. Behind the door lies a small chamber and an open chest containing 300 gold pieces, 2 potions, and a strange set of eyewear adorned with some kind of unreadable markings.

OOC: DC 10 arcana to ID the potions.
     DC 15 arcana to ID the glasses.
     DC 13 arcana to ID the dice (both Therarak and Thorfire can roll).
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:24, Wed 06 June 2018.
Lazaret
player, 441 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Wed 6 Jun 2018
at 04:19
  • msg #249

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 248):

"See, Celador, what you are doing with your sword is something like this."

23:16, Today: Lazaret rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.

"Your elbow is low. Keep it up. More like this."

23:17, Today: Lazaret rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Dagger Attack.
23:17, Today: Lazaret rolled 6 using 2d4.  Dagger Damage (Offhand).

"Now you try!"
Celador Qiris
player, 278 posts
Fighter 4 | SD4d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Thu 7 Jun 2018
at 03:54
  • msg #250

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Annoyed at missing the first time (or possibly by Lazaret's critque), Celador swings again and this time connects with the little beast, though it is only a glancing blow.

22:51, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 21 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 16.  attack with long sword.

22:53, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 6 using 1d8+5 with rolls of 1.  damage with long sword.

@Laz, wasn't your second strike a crit?
Lazaret
player, 442 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Thu 7 Jun 2018
at 11:43
  • msg #251

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 250):

Yes. I've critted twice in a row with the dagger. (2d4 damage) The first time was for minimum damage.
Celador Qiris
player, 279 posts
Fighter 4 | SD4d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Thu 7 Jun 2018
at 13:14
  • msg #252

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

I guess I didn't look close enough, I was expecting more from a critical roll. I have a ranger in the other game who rolled a crit while using hunter's mark and colossus slayer and it was 31 damage.

Back to back crit with a dagger, huh. I am guessing it's not the dagger of Rezor. Maybe we should have a crossover with the Wangrods and Laz could give the dagger to Peren? #twoworldscollide
Lazaret
player, 443 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Thu 7 Jun 2018
at 15:32
  • msg #253

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 252):

#greenflameblade
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 154 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 24/27
Thu 7 Jun 2018
at 18:53
  • msg #254

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

DM:

OOC: DC 10 arcana to ID the potions.
     DC 15 arcana to ID the glasses.
     DC 13 arcana to ID the dice (both Therarak and Thorfire can roll).


Therarak identifies the potions and strange glasses...the dice seems to be two dice.

13:49, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Arcana Potions.
13:50, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Arcana Glasses.
13:51, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Arcana Dice.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 373 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Thu 7 Jun 2018
at 18:55
  • msg #255

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 248):

The brilliant Thorfire investigates the dice.

13:55, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 18 using 1d20-1.  Arcana.
DM
GM, 570 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Fri 8 Jun 2018
at 05:14
  • msg #256

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Therarak recognizes the potions as potions of healing. The glasses are enchanted in a way that aids night vision: giving it to those who don't have it at all and improving it for those that do.

But it takes someone a bit more streetwise to understand the nature of the dice. Thorfire, having seen more than a few games of chance in his day (some more fair than others), finds the first die to be true. The second, however, he learns will come up on whatever number he pictures in his mind.

Potion of Healing (2d4 + 2 hp)

Potion of Greater Healing (4d4 + 4hp)

Goggles of Night - While wearing these dark lenses, you have darkvision out to a range of 60 feet. If you already have darkvision, wearing the goggles increases its range by 60 feet.

Charlatan's Die - Whenever you roll this six-sided die, you can control which number it rolls.

--------------------------------------

In the southern chamber, Lazaret and Celador both hit the ghoul. It screeches in defiance, but seeing the odds stacked against him and leaking a foul black pus from multiple wounds, it retreats behind a pile of decaying corpses, tearing savagely into one of them for a last meal before the inevitable end to its undead days.

Post round 3 actions! Ghoul is 15 feet away partially obscured by putrid corpses.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:19, Fri 08 June 2018.
Lazaret
player, 444 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Fri 8 Jun 2018
at 10:36
  • msg #257

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 256):

"Much better, my friend. But let me finish for you."

05:35, Today: Lazaret rolled 1 using 1d4.  Dagger Damage (Offhand).

05:35, Today: Lazaret rolled 7 using 1d8+3.  Rapier Damage.

05:34, Today: Lazaret rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  Dagger Attack.

05:34, Today: Lazaret rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  Rapier Attack.
DM
GM, 571 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 9 Jun 2018
at 04:29
  • msg #258

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret finishes off the feasting ghoul with a flurry of blades. Its foul corpse joins its final meal in the pile of already rotting flesh strewn across the small chamber. A quick survey of the room is all Lazaret and Celador can stand without retching. That is time enough to conclude there is nothing of value there.
This message was last updated by the GM at 05:13, Sun 10 June 2018.
Lazaret
player, 445 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Sun 10 Jun 2018
at 02:26
  • msg #259

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 258):

N22 Door 7

Lazaret and Celador continue to clear out the cave. They make their way back up the stairs.

(I think there was a door at N22 - we'll check that out first. Then proceed onto Door 7.)

"I wonder what is behind this."
DM
GM, 573 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sun 10 Jun 2018
at 05:02
  • msg #260

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

OOC: From the history department:
DM:
(way back in chapter 4, msg #317)
Therarak indicates to the others that the way is clear and they join the gnome at the next intersection (K15). From there, Celador approaches the door. It is barred from the side on which he stands. Not only is it barred, but it is also boarded shut and wedged with multiple spikes. It is evident that something on Celador's side of the door is determined to keep something from the other side out. The elf also sees a parchment posted to the door, which reads in a script he cannot decipher, "den druur duun kaalkac rhagaal. Al'dan! Rhec ogaar or daan muurthaal okaan."

Lazaret reaches the northwestern door (door 7 at I17)and finds it is still barred (significantly) from his own side. Unbarring without the help of a crowbar is possible, but it won't be easy.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:02, Sun 10 June 2018.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 374 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Sun 10 Jun 2018
at 14:05
  • msg #261

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 260):

Thorfire and Therarak join Laz at J16.

When we are done here, do we want to kill some rodents of unusual size?
This message was last edited by the player at 14:07, Sun 10 June 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 280 posts
Fighter 4 | SD4d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Sun 10 Jun 2018
at 22:24
  • msg #262

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Celador manages to keep himself from retching as they leave the putrid rotting corpses and head back toward the entrance to the cave. He stops with Lazaret and they examine the heavily barred door.

"Well, this looks rather serious. Looks like some one or some thing is not supposed to go in there," he states, digging around in his pack. "shall we see what it could be?" as he pulls out a crowbar.

I do have a dungeoneer's pack and crowbar is standard equipemnt



"A little help here, please," he grunts as he starts prying at the spikes.

Assuming that someone will give him help, I'll go ahead and roll with advantage.


17:22, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  athletics.

I guess I didn't need to.
DM
GM, 576 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Mon 11 Jun 2018
at 04:48
  • msg #263

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

With the northern chambers fully explored, the party reconvenes at the barred door bearing the unreadable note. Celador pulls a crowbar from his pack and begins to methodically pry the wooden crosspieces fixed across the doorway. Once completed, he is removes the stakes that also serve to hold the door from whoever or whatever is on the other side. With everything removed, the elf is able to pull the door open revealing a musty smell (actually an improvement over that of the zombies) and darkness for as far as he can see. Stone stairs continue ahead for a good forty feet before the passageway turns to the left and out of the sight even for Celador's darkvision.
Lazaret
player, 446 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Mon 11 Jun 2018
at 12:42
  • msg #264

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 263):

"I'm sure this is fine. What's the worst that could possibly happen?"

Celador sniffs the air trying to discern what sort of creature may inhabit this space.

07:42, Today: Lazaret rolled 20 using 1d20+6.  Perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:43, Mon 11 June 2018.
Celador Qiris
player, 281 posts
Fighter 4 | SD4d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Mon 11 Jun 2018
at 14:54
  • msg #265

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret:
Celador sniffs the air trying to discern what sort of creature may inhabit this space.

He does?


Celador looks at the tabaxi with a slight grin.

"My thoughts exactly."

He takes a few cautious steps forward, shield and sword at the ready.

09:52, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 4 using 1d20+3.  stealth.

I should replace "takes a few cautious steps forward" with "trips and falls down the stairs"
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 375 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Mon 11 Jun 2018
at 15:42
  • msg #266

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 263):

No need for them to know how many people are coming down the stairs... Thorfire dons the dark vision glasses, looks at Therarak and follows the elf and cat man quietly down the stairs.

10:41, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 16 using 1d20+10, rerolling ones with rolls of 6.  Stealth.
Therarak Gemfinder
player, 155 posts
Svirfneblin Artificer, 4
AC: 12, HP: 24/27
Mon 11 Jun 2018
at 15:44
  • msg #267

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 266):

Therarak sees Thorfire melt into the shadows and follows his Halfling companion.

10:43, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 19 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 17,13.
Lazaret
player, 447 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Wed 13 Jun 2018
at 15:07
  • msg #268

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 267):

"So we are doing this quietly? Fine. But remind me to tell you all a tale of a friend of mine from Stoneport. Fellow by the name of Leroy. Leroy Jenkins. Good man. Died a terrible death, but a braver son of a bitch never existed."

10:06, Today: Lazaret rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  stealth.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 376 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Fri 15 Jun 2018
at 16:02
  • msg #269

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 268):

How did he die?  Did you talk him to death?!?  That would be a terrible way to go
DM
GM, 578 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 16 Jun 2018
at 07:41
  • msg #270

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

After several flights of stairs, the passageway continues for another hundred feet, then another hundred, then a hundred more, all the while slanting slightly downward. The air is cool and earthy. While not particularly pleasant, the absence of the rotting stench from the chambers above is welcome.

Aided by their darkvision, the adventurers can make a descent pace in the shifting tunnel. They travel over half an hour before they finally reach the end of the passageway. It stops after opening into the side of an enormous rift in the earth. The floor itself ends after jutting out some ten feet into the opening. From there, it is another 50 feet to a sheer cliff face, which stretches up and down as far as their darkvision can see. The rift extends beyond their vision to their left and right, as well.
Lazaret
player, 448 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Sun 17 Jun 2018
at 16:54
  • msg #271

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 270):

"I don't know about the rest of you, but I came North to see mountains. Plenty of time in the after life to explore tunnels and caves, right? I say we barricade that door again come back some time in the distant future. The good folks of Westbank are surely going to have a parade for us when we show them Sister Gwendelon's head. Hate to keep them waiting."
Celador Qiris
player, 282 posts
Fighter 4 | SD4d8 +AS|-SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 36/36
Mon 18 Jun 2018
at 14:35
  • msg #272

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

”Yes. I am not sure I want to go picking a fight with what might lurk down here. Westbank awaits.”

On the road again...
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 377 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Tue 19 Jun 2018
at 00:56
  • msg #273

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 272):

Thorfire and Therarak join Laz and Celador on the road to town.
Lazaret
player, 449 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Tue 19 Jun 2018
at 01:51
  • msg #274

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 273):

OOC - 1980's montage to Polly's Puffy Pillow and Level 5!
DM
GM, 579 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Wed 20 Jun 2018
at 04:53
  • msg #275

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

It is midday when the heroes depart the cave and return to the outdoors. The crisp autumn air is a refreshing break from the stale rotten stench they've been breathing for the past couple hours.

To the party's delight, the horses are still there and look much better than the battle worn quartet does. With some shuffling of packs, the newly acquired gold and treasure (including the head of Sister Gwendelon, as well as some of her writings), are distributed evenly among the steeds and the return trip to Westbank begins.

They make their way back to the bridge and then head south for Westbank. Before long, the sun begins to set and the heroes make camp slightly off the road. There is an occasional stir in the night, but it passes without event.

The next morning, they break camp one final time and complete their journey to Westbank in the early afternoon. A few people smile at the heroes as they approach. Others look the other way. It is clear to the group that they are now recognized by just about everyone in town.

And as always, the crow perched atop the statue of Staal Stronghammer caws at them as they approach the park in the center of town.

OOC: It's time to level up!
DM
GM, 582 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Fri 22 Jun 2018
at 04:18
  • msg #276

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The heroes reserve their usual rooms at the Stronghammer Inn and then head to the Trollip and Troll for a well deserved meal. Mattis Bumbleford has really outdone herself this evening with a hearty stew and fresh baked bread that hits the spot.

As they finish their meal, a young messenger enters the tavern, scans the room, then approaches the heroes at their table. "Mayor Naar wishes to speak with you tomorrow morning," he informs them. "He has asked me to request that you meet him in the constable's office at 8:00am."

The messenger, waiting as patiently as he can, shifts his weight uneasily from one foot to the other.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 378 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 25/38
Sat 23 Jun 2018
at 02:44
  • msg #277

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to DM (msg # 276):

Reaching into his pouch, Thorfire flips the messager a silver piece.  Be a good lad and tell the mayor that we will meet him in the morning...and I have brought him a special gift.
DM
GM, 583 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 23 Jun 2018
at 03:12
  • msg #278

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"Yes sir," the young lad smiles widely as he takes the payment. "I'll let him know right away." With a nervous bow toward the group, he hustles away.

The rest of the night passes by uneventfully. The heroes are undisturbed by the rest of the tavern's patrons and they enjoy what turns out to be the first truly relaxing evening that they can recall. After a satisfying meal and a few beverages, they retire to the Stronghammer Inn where they sleep soundly.

Each of the quartet wakes the next morning fully refreshed and feeling better than ever (OOC: 5th level!). After a quick breakfast, they head to the constable's office to discuss their findings.
Taylin Naar
NPC, 15 posts
Mayor
Sat 23 Jun 2018
at 03:48
  • msg #279

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The office is tending to everyday business when the heroes arrive. Enoch is seated at the desk, behind a stack of papers. He looks up long enough to sneer at the party, then returns to his papers with a grumble and a shake of his head.

Taylin Naar and the young guardsman Tyus sit across from each other at a 2nd table. The Mayor stands when he sees the adventurers arrive. "Gentlemen," he starts. "I'm glad to see you are all in good health after your journey. But no sign of the escaped fugitive, Malik... did you not find him?"
Lazaret
player, 452 posts
Tabaxi Bard, Lvl 4
AC: 16, HP: 20/23
Sat 23 Jun 2018
at 16:13
  • msg #280

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Taylin Naar (msg # 279):

"We found him. Indeed. The fool returned to the same cave system where we apprehended him the first time. He was up to quite the nefarious business. More necromancy. A religious thing for him, but I'm afraid we have little proof of his...is apprehension the right word for what happened? What would you call it, Celador?"

"I would just say that he will no longer be a threat to the good people of Westbank. If you want his body, just send a crew to the cave with some buckets and a mop or two." Lazaret smiles even more than usual. "I'm quite the sorcerer sometimes. These paws have more magic than I even know." He gestures with his hands as if casting a thunder spell. "Boom! It was quite remarkable. And rather disgusting now that I think about it."

"But I am afraid we have some rather shocking news for all of you. Mr. Mayor, you will want to sit down for this. Enis, you should sit too. Good man."

Lazaret composes himself for a moment before continuing.

"Marik the Necromancer, or as I like to call him now, Stuff on the Floor, was not working alone. He had a boss. One who pulls the strings. A most wretched fellow, felless? How do you describe a fellow who is not a fellow, but a female fellow? Femmow? Celador? Do your people have a name for such people?"

Lazaret looks nervously at his friends and then pulls it back together.

"Mr. Mayor Naylin Taar, the necromancer's boss was none other than the formerly good Sister Gwendelon. I know, right? Who saw that coming? Anyway, she was clearly not pulled away to some business in Alaska. She didn't even worship Pelor! I mean, she worshiped Llolthallalla of all gods.

"Picture this. We are in the cave, I've just killed Marik and like twenty of his zombie goons and then we see another hooded man about to raise some more undead. Celador is all like 'pew pew' and shooting arrows. Thererak is lobbing fire vials and being his weird little self. Who knows where Thorfire is - probably hiding somewhere - he likes to do that. A lot. Anyway, the hooded man lowers the hood and it's Gwendelon! I was shocked. How could she be such an evil prick? I mean, she was a little harsh at times, but raising the dead and threatening to destroy the town? Come on!"

Lazaret is now rather excited and begins acting out the final battle in great detail. Most of the violent acts are performed on Enoch which serves only to delight the Tabaxi and, probably, no one else.

"And that's what happened. Oh. And we brought you this."

Lazaret grabs the bag holding Gwendelon's bloodied head and tosses it unceremoniously to Enoch who instinctively catches it.
Celador Qiris
player, 284 posts
Fighter 5 | SD4d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 44/44
Tue 26 Jun 2018
at 03:36
  • msg #281

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Lazaret:
"...but I'm afraid we have little proof of his...is apprehension the right word for what happened? What would you call it, Celador?"


"Avocation?" chimes in Celador.

Lazaret:
"...And rather disgusting now that I think about it."


Celador shudders at the memory of the incident.


Lazaret:
"But I am afraid we have some rather shocking news for all of you. Mr. Mayor, you will want to sit down for this. Enis, you should sit too. Good man."


Celador pulls over a chair for Enis.


Lazaret:
"Marik..


"Malik" Celador interjects.

Lazaret:
"...the Necromancer, or as I like to call him now, Stuff on the Floor, was not working alone. He had a boss. One who pulls the strings. A most wretched fellow, felless? How do you describe a fellow who is not a fellow, but a female fellow? Femmow? Celador? Do your people have a name for such people?"


"We do, but the translation is rather rude," Celador replies.


Lazaret:
"Mr. Mayor Naylin Taar, the necromancer's boss was none other than the formerly good Sister Gwendelon. I know, right? Who saw that coming?"


"Not me."


Lazaret:
"Picture this. We are in the cave, I've just killed Marik.."


"Malik"

Lazaret:
"...and like twenty of his zombie goons and then we see another hooded man about to raise some more undead. Celador is all like 'pew pew' and shooting arrows."


Celador reenacts the pulling of a bowstring and the firing of arrows.

Lazaret:
"...Thererak is lobbing fire vials and being his weird little self. Who knows where Thorfire is - probably hiding somewhere - he likes to do that. A lot."


Celador shrugs.

Lazaret:
"Anyway, the hooded man lowers the hood and it's Gwendelon! ...and that's what happened. Oh. And we brought you this."


"Truth. All truth. I would find it hard to believe myself if I wasn't there." Celador offers as a final testamonial.


I guess that is my way of saying that Celador assists Lazaret in his persuasion.
Taylin Naar
NPC, 16 posts
Mayor
Tue 26 Jun 2018
at 03:45
  • msg #282

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The mayor's attention bounces back and forth between the tabaxi and the elf as they describe in their own unique way the events of the past few days...

OOC: Lazaret, make a persuasion roll with an extra +2 (for your fabulous loquaciousness) and also with advantage (for Celador's thorough assistance).
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 380 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 38/38
Tue 26 Jun 2018
at 18:17
  • msg #283

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Taylin Naar (msg # 282):

Thinking this might not go well...and living up to his reputation, Thorfire quietly prepares to hobo kill the mayor.

13:16, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 27 using 1d20+10, rerolling ones.  Stealth (Hide in Plain Sight).
Lazaret
player, 453 posts
Tabaxi Bard 4/Sorc 1
AC: 16, HP: 28/28
Wed 27 Jun 2018
at 23:12
  • msg #284

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 283):

18:11, Today: Lazaret rolled 21 using 2d20+11, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 4,10.  Persuasion.

That was close.
DM
GM, 584 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Thu 28 Jun 2018
at 03:41
  • msg #285

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

The Mayor, declining to sit even after Lazaret's invitation, listens and observes the tabaxi's tale as it progresses. Enoch fends off Lazaret's pantomime blows with a combination of annoyance and disgust, but refrains from striking the bard outright.

As the story reaches it's conclusion, both the Mayor and elder guard look dumbfounded at the notion that Sister Gwendelon was at the root of the disturbance. Enoch opens his mouth to refute the claim, but the thud of Therarak's satchel on the desk in front of him silences his protest. Instead, with a disgusted sneer, he opens the pouch.

When he sees the contents, he flips over backward in his chair, falling flat on his back. "Pelor's golden beard," he cries. "What have you done?" He scrambles for his sword, drops it, then fumbles pathetically on hands and knees before eventually rising to his feet with sword in hand. His eyes shift back and forth nervously as he tries to determine whether the three adventurers in front of him (Wasn't there a fourth? Where is that halfling?) require arrest and if so, how in Pelor's name he and the Mayor are going to achieve that.
Taylin Naar
NPC, 18 posts
Mayor
Thu 28 Jun 2018
at 04:00
  • msg #287

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

Seeing Enoch about to bite off a great deal more than he can chew, the Mayor interjects. "Hold, Enoch," he advises. "You'll only get yourself hurt."

Enoch lowers his sword but not without protest. "You don't actually believe them, do you?"

Taylin Naar sits on the corner of the desk with a heavy sigh. "Think about it, Enoch. The hangings - what did we do with the bodies?"

Enoch gives the Mayor a blank stare.

"That's right. We didn't do anything. Gwendelon had them taken away. Convenient. Did we ever ask where? Of course not. We were just happy that we didn't need to dispose of them ourselves. And all those mysterious trips to Alaka? To see the council that nobody, including Brother Walword, had ever heard of? There's no such council in Alaka. She never even went to Alaka. She went to some mysterious cave to carry out a perverse ritual on the bodies she was collecting at the gallows in Westbank.

"But it started to unravel when young Kevril and his friends spotted the hooded man at the bridge. She thought she had silenced them all, but she didn't know Kevril was hiding. When the lad got back to town, his story spread. She had him jailed him on a trumped up charge and assumed knowledge of the location of her secret cave would die with Kevril. But then these four found it. "

The Mayor's eyes brighten as the puzzle pieces all start to fit. "So she had her lackey dress up as the hooded man that Kevril identified and accompany the four back to Westbank, playing the part of their prisoner. Then she let him escape, kill Morlough Merris, and tried to pin that crime on these four, but the secret was spreading and her story wasn't holding water. Too many people sensed something was wrong by then. Mattis Bumbleford, for one." He winks at the elf.



Finally, he fishes into a pocket and removes a small piece of parchment. "So now it's time for my confession. After you left for the north a few days ago, I picked the lock on the constable's office here to conduct an investigation of my own. Everything was in order at first glance, but stacked away in the back of one of her many religious texts I found this paper. The writing is hers, but the script is nothing I could understand. So I took it to Brother Walword. He recognized the writings and the diagrams immediately. The eye in the left palm symbolizes Vecna, a legendary lich with dreams of godhood."

The Mayor shakes his head in disgust, partially at Gwendelon for her countless evil deeds and partially at himself for not detecting them earlier. "It seems that Gwendelon's true allegiance was with Vecna, not Pelor. Sister Gwendelon was nothing but a lie. Her life here was a lie. Nothing more than a carefully orchestrated ruse to get bodies for her own  grotesque rituals. And it all worked until Kevril Moonstone spotted a hooded man on the road and the four of you believed him."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:47, Thu 28 June 2018.
Lazaret
player, 454 posts
Tabaxi Bard 4/Sorc 1
AC: 16, HP: 28/28
Thu 28 Jun 2018
at 13:44
  • msg #288

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Taylin Naar (msg # 287):

The party makes their way to the tavern for a well earned dinner. Lazaret sneaks off to visit the library and return an old friend.

"Bobbin? Bobbin?" Lazaret whispers to the seemingly empty shelves. "I wonder where the odd fellow is."

Hearing no reply, Lazaret reaches into his pack and retrieves the strange grey stone and pouch of dirt. He places Cornelius gently on the table and sprinkles some dirt nearby. Taking his water flask, he pours a few drops onto the dirt and pushes the rock closer so he can eat. "You were a fine travel companion. And a brave fighter. Be sure to tell your friend about your adventures and all that you saw. Perhaps Bobbin will write of our deeds and the story will be passed down to those who visit this library."

The Tabaxi turns to leave the library then returns to the stone on the table. He pats it once or twice with his paw then places a handful of coins and odd gems on the table. "Your share of the loot."

Laz wipes a tear and heads out to rejoin his friends at the tavern.
Thorfire Shortankard
player, 381 posts
Halfling Rogue, Lvl 5
AC:16, HP: 38/38
Thu 28 Jun 2018
at 22:19
  • msg #289

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

In reply to Taylin Naar (msg # 287):

Realizing the mayor believes Lazarat's tail...tale...story...he calmly pokes Enoch in the ribs.  Boo! and proceeds out of the door with his companions.
Celador Qiris
player, 285 posts
Fighter 5 | SD4d8 +AS|+SW
AC: 16 (14) | HP: 44/44
Fri 29 Jun 2018
at 05:07
  • msg #290

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

"Don't feel bad Mayor Naar, Sister Gwendelon was a crafty witch and no doubt fooled many people. Simply be grateful that through some divine fate that the four of us happened upon your town and could put our brains and our brawn at your service.

You might be thinking that you'll need to empty the city coffers to reward us for saving your sleepy hamlet. But I think I speak for all of us when I say, that your thanks is all we need. Your thanks, and maybe some of the tasty meat pies and stews of Ms. Bumbleford. Yes, thanks, meat pies and stews...and a few pints of ale.

That should do it. Pies, stews, ales, thanks..and some luxury accommodations for the rest of our stay here in Westbank. (he keeps thinking) And use of the stables, yes, if we need to save the city again we should have horses.

Let's recap; A soft bed, a cold ale, a fast horse, a hot dinner, and warm thanks. That should just about do it. A few pieces of gold would be heartily appreciated too.."

Celador smiles, casually salutes the mayor and the deputy and heads out the door.

"if you need us, we'll be at the Trollip and the Troll."
DM
GM, 586 posts
Dungeon Master, Lvl1
AC: ???, HP: ???/???
Sat 7 Jul 2018
at 04:17
  • msg #291

Re: Chapter 9: The Northern Trail

As the heroes prepare to leave, the mayor stops them for a final request. "I hope you'll find it possible to keep quiet about Sister Gwendelon. Even though it turns out she was evil to the core, I don't think the town of Westbank is ready to accept that fact. Instead, he offers a slightly different version of the facts. "She was killed by the evil necromancer, the hooded man, and beheaded for her beliefs." As he explains it "For the people of Westbank, Gwendelon wasn't a person so much as an idea. A belief in order and good. That idea, at least in the form of her person, died when she evolved into the dark one that Kevril named the hooded man. From that point, the good Gwendelon, who brought law and order to our fair town, was dead. So in a sense, the hooded man killed the Gwendelon."

He nods to the heroes as they depart, "I wish you well on your adventures, wherever they lead. Know as long as I am mayor, you will be welcome here. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to find a new constable."

And so ends the tale of Sister Gwendelon, an evil necromancer who hoped to gain the favor of Vacna by rallying an undead army and storming the village of Westbank in the far northern reaches of civilization. While well established in the town herself, her undoing came in the form of a fifteen year old who saw too much and a quartet of outsiders who had the audacity to believe him. Ultimately, she was stopped while applying the finishing touches to her army. For the heroes, the mayor's support (although unofficial) is enough to send them all to the Trollip and Troll with their heads held high.
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