The next few days pass uneventfully. News spreads quickly of the death of Sister Gwendelon at the hands of Malik, and the heroes are (for the most part) smiled upon for bringing him to justice. Even Kevril Moonstone believes that Malik was the mastermind of the evil plot to invade the village instead of just a lackey of the true hooded man.

The mayor begins his search for a new constable, appointing Enoch to the position in the interim, much to everyone's (including Enoch's) chagrin.

The mayor does his part on behalf of the heroes, covering their room and board for a week's time, and while the general population is cordial to the four strangers, they still treat them as outsiders. Therarak, Celador, and Lazaret are the only Svirfneblin, Elf, and Tabaxi in town, and while there are a couple other Westbank halflings, Thorfire's general behavior makes him at least as suspicious as his companions in the eyes of the Westbank population. On the plus side, the characters have made many allies in town, including the Moonstones, the Livingstons, Mattis Bumbleford, Mrawk (who is occasionally spotted outside of town), Kathel and her security team, Tyus, the Mayor, Bobbin Glenfellow, and his good friend Cornelius.

Nights are spent at the Trollip and Troll, where the four have become regulars. One night as they share drinks, Lazaret notices that Zelgor, the strange old man who he met his first night in town, has returned to his post in the back of the tavern. As before, he observes the room silently while blowing rings of smoke from his pipe.

OOC: Sandbox here. There are a few hooks laying around from previous chapters - a note from Vhurraun Baenath (from the orc cave on the southern road), unexplored passages in the cave of the hooded man, the old pipe smoking man, a list of rumors you stirred up a few chapters ago (Chapter 8, msg #23). If none of those are appealing, I'll drop one in your lap in a couple days!

In reply to DM (msg # 1):

Lazaret once again watches the smoke rings and barely resists the urge to jump and paw at them. He walks over to the old man and sits down.

"Zelgor. Where are my manners? We were interrupted the last time we met. The Moonstone boy and all." Lazaret catches himself once again staring the pipe.

"You were telling me of great mountains and dwarven tunnels. Please. Tell me more."

"Fire Star of the Lazaret," the old man starts while motioning for the Tabaxi to sit down (even though Lazaret already has). "It's been a noteworthy couple weeks for you and your friends, from what I hear. From town outcasts to accused murderers to heroes of the day."

He blows another ring of smoke before continuing. "Well I'm happy you've cleared young Kevril's name. It would've been a tragedy if he were to swing from the gallows as Sister Gwendelon had planned.

"The mountains? Oh yes, we were talking about the mountains, weren't we." The old man expels a heavy sigh. "And since we're on the subject, I wonder if I might be able to retain your services for a journey... an errand, really... into the mountains."

In reply to Zelgor (msg # 3):

Lazaret's eyes grow wide. He leans in toward the old man.

"You had me at journey." He glances over at his friends then back to the old man's pipe. "But my friends will scoff at the errand part. They will insist that the retaining of our services is accompanied by some sort of monetary remuneration. But I am still listening. What sort of journey? What kind of errand?"

The old man inhales a lengthy pull from his pipe then sits silently for a long moment as he thinks. Finally, he exhales a ring of smoke that grows softly as it floats into the rafters. He watches the rings for a time, mumbling something to himself as if in a dream.

Then in an instant, his focus shifts entirely upon the tabaxi. "A journey northward. To the village of Cathid, then into the mountains from there. I'd have you retrieve a certain tome if you were up to the task."

In reply to Zelgor (msg # 5):

"Oh, we are up to the task. Have you not heard of our latest exploits? We are quite the heroes actually.

So Cathid? It's not another litter box like Westbank is it?

And tell me of this book you need. And of the gold you are offering."

...uproarious laughter erupts from a group sitting at a nearby table...

"...and that, dear Geoff and George, is simply how one escapes from an elven jail, with hands tied together, wearing only a nightshirt!" Celador's voice carries above the chuckles and guffaws.

After a couple slaps on the back and few knowing nudges, Celador looks around to see that Lazaret has struck up conversation with the man known as Zelgor. He moves over to an empty seat at their table.

"I hope my friend Lazaret isn't boring you with yet another tale of his heroic battle against the necromancer Malik. I bet he left out the bit about how that funny little deep gnome kept bringing him back to life with his peculiar tasting potions." Celador takes a seat.

Zelgor examines the elf carefully as he approaches evaluating him silently for a moment. "Yes, your friend has done a fair job of describing your heroic exploits against the evil necromancer..." he stops for a moment, smirks, then continues. "...Malik. I'm sure he was quite the adversary. And thank goodness for Westbank you've stopped him.

"As for the book, Lazaret, it's locked away safely (at least I hope it is) in a tower northeast of Cathid. I have a contact there who can guide you to it. Until that time, it will be in your own best interest to know less of its location. When in Cathid, ask for the one known as the Caribou Shepherd. Tell him you were sent by Geomund the Seer and he will guide you from there."

He stops to let those facts set in before continuing. "Gold? I haven't a lot. It does less here in the Northlands than it does in the south. But you are mercenaries, and for that I suppose I should expect that a payment is required. I can offer you each 100 gold for your trouble. Half up front and the balance upon return of the book."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:48, Mon 21 Aug 2023.

Celador raises an eyebrow at the old man's comments.


22:26, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  Perception. Does Zelgor know about the 'good' sister?

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 9):

Lazaret gives Celador a knowing look. Then turns back to the old man.

"Yes. Malik. The necromancer.

"Gold is good. Magical items or shiny curiosities are also acceptable to us. Well, me anyway."

Celador studies the old man and gets a strong feeling that he knows the truth about Sister Gwendelon, but is respectful of the Mayor's plan to keep that truth under wraps for the sake of the village.

"So you like trinkets, do you," Zelgor continues, while fishing into a pouch. "Then perhaps you'd prefer these instead of the up front gold." He places four small stones on the table. "These are called Beads of Force. Throw them at an enemy and it will entrap a small room full in a force sphere. In my adventurous days, I found them handy when in a bind. So the choice is yours, 4 of these or 200 gold."

In reply to Zelgor (msg # 11):

Thorfire sits down with his companions and quietly grabs the stones without any one noticing.  Turning to his friends, Well boys, when are we leaving so we can kill stuff?!?

18:38, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 21 using 1d20+7, rerolling ones with rolls of 14.  Sleight of Hand.

Celador picks up one of the beads and rolls it gently between his fingers, "Interesting. This could come in handy."

"So, you'd like us to go and pick up a book and bring it back for you. Sounds simple enough. If we bring this book back you will give us 50 gold each? How do we know you are not another necromancer in disguise and that this book won't raise an undead army to destroy us?" he directly addresses Zelgor.

"We are just and honorable adventurers," he shoots a sideways glance at Thorfire, then looks back to Zelgor, directly in the eyes, "What assurance can you give us that you are who you say you are and this book is not something you say it isn't?" Celador briefly looks confused at trying to follow his own logic.

"Your cautions are well founded," the old man concedes. "And I'm afraid there is little I can do to guarantee my promise. But look around you. These are the Northlands. There are no guarantees here." He eyes Thorfire suspiciously (the halfling suspects that he is looking for the beads). "Just like there are no guarantees for me that you won't take my down payment and disappear.

"So what will it be? Do you accept my offer or will I have to pin my hope upon some other party of capable heroes (if there are any)?"

In reply to Zelgor (msg # 14):

"Very good, Zelgar. We will take your beads and then your gold.

Gentlemen, we have a book to retrieve!"

Lazaret grabs one of the beads and heads for the door.

"Lazaret!" Celador calls after the tabaxi, "can we at least wait until the morning?"

Against Lazaret's protests, the heroes spend one more night in Westbank and make their departure for the north the following morning with little fanfare. The first day goes by with little of note and the party reaches the bridge where Kevril first spotted the hooded man with a little daylight to spare. They press on for another hour before setting up camp.

They continue for the second day, reaching the bend in the road where the northern trail (and the nearby Misty River) bends to the northeast. While not a thick forest, there is a spattering of trees on either side of the road, and the party finds a suitable spot to set up camp.

Well into the night, during Therarak's watch, the svirfneblin hears a stirring in the woods. Even with his darkvision, he cannot spot the sound, but he suspects it more than his imagination.

00:05, Today: DM rolled 3 using 1d4. Who's watch (1- Cel, 2 - Laz, 3 - Tk, 4 - Tf)?

In reply to DM (msg # 17):

Sensing something might be amiss, Therarak strains his hearing,wakes up the party, and prepares himself for battle.

09:11, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 6 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 18):

"Wha? What? Oh hell!"

Lazaret sprints up the nearest tree to get a better look at what might be coming for them.

09:51, Today: Lazaret rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  Perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:51, Fri 03 Aug 2018.

Therarak scans the darkness for the source of the eerie sounds, but cannot spot anything. After he wakes the others, Lazaret scurries up a scraggly pine nearby. From his vantage point, he spots two monstrous beasts circling their camp from opposite sides. They resemble large muscular bears, but their movement seems anything but natural.

Before he can sound a full alert, the beasts rise to their hinds legs and charge toward the campsite with screech.

OOC: Post round 1 actions! Players are at the center of the camp with two monstrous bears charging, one from 3 oclock and the other from 9 oclock. Both are 50' away.

In reply to DM (msg # 20):

"Big bear! Big bear!"

Lazaret extends his hand toward the bear at 3 o'clock and points his finger. A bolt of fire materializes at the tip of his claw and flies toward the bear striking it in the chest.

20:29, Today: Lazaret rolled 12 using 2d10.  Fire Bolt Damage.
20:28, Today: Lazaret rolled 24 using 1d20+7.  Fire Bolt .

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 21):

Seeing the fire bolt slam into the bear, Thorfire slides into the shadows just outside the fire light and is ready to assassinate the bear charging from 3 o'clock.

22:31, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 23 using 1d20+10, rerolling ones.  Stealth.


22:33, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 21 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 14,8.  Rapier Attack.
22:35, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 7 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
22:36, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 14 using 3d6.  Sneak Attack Damage.

As a bonus action, he will hide in plain sight behind the bear.

22:39, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 27 using 1d20+10, rerolling ones.  Stealth (Hide in Plain Sight).

In reply to Thorfire Shortankard (msg # 22):

Therarak grabs an acid vial and throws it at the damage bear (The bear must make a DC16 DEX save).

22:53, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 7 using 3d6.  Acid Damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:01, Tue 07 Aug 2018.

Celador is abruptly woken from his trance and, seeing the charging creatures, quickly picks up his sword and shield, reading himself for the approaching conflict.

Action: dodge

sorry for holding things up, it has been a crazy couple of weeks and I am out of town again until Monday. @DM if you want to t roll for me I would be fighting melee with the bear creature with two attacks. Don't forget that I get +2 for attacks while holding a weapon in one hand (dueling fighting style)

The bears charge in from opposite sides, with the one from the east taking a fire bolt from Lazaret, an acid vial from Therarak, and a stab from the shadows from Thorfire. Each time, it shrieks in an awful, unnatural way. Unable to find Thorfire in the shadows and still too far from those it can find, the beast continues to charge.

The other beast (from the west) has it's eyes fixed on Celador. It snaps it's beak as it charges, but isn't yet close enough to attack.

Post round 2 actions! Bears are now 10 feet from the party. The 3 o'clock (east) bear has been hit 3 times and the other is undamaged. Both look pissed!

In reply to DM (msg # 25):

"Bears got beaks!"

Lazaret casts firebolt again. The flames strike the bear, but do little damage.

"Look out, Celador!" he cried from his high vantage point in the tree giving bardic inspiration to the elf.

08:46, Today: Lazaret rolled 24 using 1d20+7.  Fire Bolt .
08:47, Today: Lazaret rolled 7 using 2d10.  Fire Bolt Damage.

In reply to DM (msg # 25):

Using his super stealthy hide, Thorfire again attacks the beaked bear with his rapier and then hides again.

16:57, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 17 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 10,2.  Attack with Rapier.
16:58, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 7 using 1d8+4.  Rapier Damage.
16:58, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 12 using 3d6.  Sneak Attack Damage.

16:59, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 25 using 1d20+10, rerolling ones.  Stealth (Hide in Plain Sight).

In reply to DM (msg # 25):

Seeing the beaked bear take damage, Therarak again grabs an vial and lobs it at the hurt bear.  It must make a DC16 DEX Save. (If that creature is dead, he will lob the vial at the other bear).

17:01, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 16 using 3d6 ((6,6,4)). Acid Damage

As a bonus action, he grabs a swift step draught from his trusty satchel.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:12, Tue 14 Aug 2018.

Celador swiftly steps toward the charging creature and swings his longsword,


00:37, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Attack.

...just in case...

00:38, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 12 using 1d8+5.  Damage.


then quickly takes another swing.


00:39, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 20 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 15.  Attack.

...that's better...

00:40, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 12 using 1d8+5 with rolls of 7.  Damage.

The wounded owlbear from the east continues to charge, but he is staggered by Lazaret's fire bolt, giving Thorfire the opportunity to finish him off, which the halfling deftly does. The freakish monster collapses to the ground with a shriek.

Across the campsite, Therarak hits the second owlbear squarely in the chest with an acid vial and Celador lands a hit as well. The beast, however, is far from defeated. It retaliates with a flurry of claws, one of which connects with Celador, and while the elf winces in pain, he can't help but think the glancing blow could have been much worse (Cleador takes 7 points of slashing damage).

23:45, Today: DM rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  9 o'clock owlbear dex save vs. acid.
23:45, Today: DM rolled 9 using 1d20+7.  Owlbear beak vs. Celador.
23:46, Today: DM rolled 24 using 1d20+7.  Owlbear claws vs. Celador.
23:46, Today: DM rolled 7 using 2d8+5.  Damage.

Post round 3 actions!The first owlbear is dead and the second is engaged with Celador.

In reply to DM (msg # 30):

"Seems like you were asleep for weeks, Celador. That looked painful."

Lazaret aims his next firebolt at the owlbear, but the new spell fizzles in his hands.

"Hmm. Looks like I need more practice. Perhaps I can keep Thorfire on his toes..."


07:33, Today: Lazaret rolled 10 using 1d20+7.  Fire Bolt .
07:34, Today: Lazaret rolled 6 using 2d10.  Fire Bolt Damage.

Celador grits his teeth, a little bit due to the owlbear claw and a little bit due to Laz's constant commentary, and takes two more swings at the creature.


13:55, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 10 using 1d20+5.  attack.

13:55, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 15 using 1d20+5.  attack.

13:57, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 10 using 1d8+5.  damage.

In reply to DM (msg # 30):

Thorfire attacks the second bear with his trusty rapier and lands a critical hit to its taint.

21:48, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 27 using 1d20+7, rerolling ones ((20))
21:49, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 13 using 2d8+4 with rolls of 1,8.  Rapier Damage.
21:50, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 23 using 6d6 with rolls of 2,6,4,2,3,6.  Sneak Attack Damage.

He then hides behind the bear.

21:52, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 16 using 1d20+10, rerolling ones with rolls of 6.  Stealth (Hide in Plain Sight).

In reply to DM (msg # 30):

Therarak grabs a acid vial and lobs it at the bear's head.  It must make a DC16 DEX save.

21:54, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,2,4.  Acid Damage.

While fire rains down from the treetops in the general direction of the remaining owlbear, Celador swings at the beast. He misses with his right hand, but connects solidly with his left, drawing a squeal and vicious snap from the beak of his enemy.

The owlbear draws back his claws to retaliate, but before it can, Thorfire drives his rapier straight through the back of the grotesque monstrosity. As the halfling withdraws his rapier, the owlbear falls to the ground, its beak snapping eerily for several seconds before coming to a final rest upon a bed of smoldering pine needles.

An owl hoots in the distance, but other than that, a calm washes over the night.

Combat completed.

00:18, Today: DM rolled 59 using 1d100.  5% chance of starting forest fire with errant firebolt (5 or less on d100).

In reply to DM (msg # 35):

"Did you all see that fire? Neat trick, huh? A little something I picked up recently. Still needs some work and it does go a little wild from time to time. Might be useful though."

Lazaret climbs down the tree and checks out the owlbear corpses.

"Strange creatures. I've heard of these before but have never seen one up close. Anyone want a souvenir? I'm taking a paw. I like the sharp claws. It might make a nice necklace. A bit large, but it looks nice."

Lazaret takes a dagger to the clawed paw of the owlbear, an unnatural mix of feathers and hair. There is nothing of value on the beasts, but as they check, they hear something scurrying through the brush nearby. After a few moments, it runs up the nearest tree, then out onto a branch that extends over the the party's heads. With their night vision (and the aid of the goggles, in the case of the halfling), they realize the scampering thing as a regular squirrel. At least it seems regular... but then it starts talking.

"Liarel of the North captured by a crazed wizard. Imprisoned under the stone monolith at the fork in the Misty River. Please help."

Then with a flick of its tail, it runs further up the tree and disappears.

In reply to DM (msg # 37):

"Thorfire! Pinch me. I think I am dreaming. First we encounter beaked bears with feathers and now a talking squirrel.

"I've never known squirrels to lie. Or speak. And as that fork in the river is on our way anyhow, we might as well check out this monolith and aid poor Lionel."

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 38):

Laz...did you see how I killed both of those strange bears?  Maybe you should try helping next time so the elf won't take damage.

As for Linus, is he the guy we were supposed to supposed to go see about the book for the old man at the bar?  If so, let's get going...if not let's check it out.  I don't mind finding other creatures to kill.

Dawn is breaking by the time the dust settles after the owlbears and the strange talking squirrel. Though their rest was interrupted, the heroes feel good as the sun rises upon the crisp autumn morning.

While not always in direct sight of the Misty River, the heroes know the trail follows it closely. With the aid of a crude map provided by Bobbin Goodfellow before their departure, they estimate they are slightly beyond the fork in the river. If they choose to investigate the stone monolith, a bit of backtracking may be in order.


OOC: Main map has been updated to show an estimate of your current position. I'm assuming about 8 dots of travel per ordinary travel day. You are about 5 dots from Alaka now, so you should have time to backtrack to the fork in the river and still make it to Alaka by nightfall if you'd like.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:00, Thu 30 Aug 2018.

In reply to DM (msg # 40):

"The fork in the river is not far from here. It's a little back that way, but perhaps the gnome can catch us some fish for our lunch."

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 41):

Ummm...Lazarat, my vials are fire and acid, neither of which would be particularly effective at catching trout.  Your the skill monkey, can't you do it or are you like most cats and hate water?!?

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 42):

"You make a fair point my little grey friend. When we have rescued Leroy I will catch you the largest salmon you have ever seen. Can your bag of tricks conjure up some butter and lemons?"

The party proceeds west off the road and journeys a short way through patchy trees to the rocky bank of river. As they study the river from their vantage point atop the stony outcropping, it is not obvious exactly where they are in relation to the fork (upstream or downstream). They estimate the fork should be close, but without being able to actually see it, there is no way to tell whether they should proceed upstream or down. With the uneven layout of the rocks on the river's edge, travel in either direction will be slow. If they guess wrong and move away from the fork instead of toward it, even more time will be spent.

OOC: Time for a skill challenge!
Talk among yourselves and choose one player to make a DC12 Survival or Nature roll to determine which way to proceed to the fork.
Others may "help" by making a Survival or Nature check of their own.
   1 - 9: no bonus
  10 - 13: +1 to the overall roll
  14 - 16: +2
  17 - 19: +3
  20:      +4
  21+:     +5

On an overall success, you reach the fork in less than an hour!
On a failure, you waste a number of hours equal to the number by which you missed the roll... and miserable failures will require additional skill checks to prevent plunging into the water.

Indicate in the Dice Roller whether you are making a helper roll or the overall roll (no deciding after you roll - that would be cheating).

Good luck!

In reply to DM (msg # 44):

"I'm sure it is this way. I've been a long time at sea and have a great sense of direction. Have I ever steered you wrong?" Lazaret implores his companions touting his +4 Survival ability. "Really. I am very good at this!"

Lazaret inspires himself.

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 45):

Laz, That's pretty good, but I am +5 on Nature.  What to help me find the path?

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 46):

"Okay, fine. But don't say I wasn't the first to say that it's THAT way!" Lazaret points due West, far from the river itself.

23:05, Today: Lazaret rolled 3 using 1d6.  Bardic Inspiration.
23:05, Today: Lazaret rolled 8 using 1d20+4.  Survival (Helping Thererak).
Total of 11 for a +1 assist.

"But, let's hear what you have to say, little grey man." Lazaret inspires Thererak.

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 47):

I'll help too

19:19, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 16 using 1d20, rerolling ones with rolls of 16.  Survival. +2 Help for Therarak

Thorfire, Lazaret, and Therarak confer along the riverbank.

OOC: +3 from the helpers so far, and Therarak +5 nature to begin with, so you're +8 as it stands. Up to Therarak whether he wants to wait for Celador's assistance or just go for it.

Celador crouches down and plucks a few blades of grass. He lifts them to nose and inhales deeply. He tosses the grass in the air and then takes two fingers and pinches a bit of dirt and then touches his fingers to his tongue. He looks at the deep gnome, then the halfling. He thinks they make a funny short duo. He wonders if they know any jokes or dance routines. He tries to remember the time a traveling show came to Glenvendale when he was just a young boy. Maybe they were halflings. Or gnomes. Either way they stood as tall as he had. It was great fun, they knew a little dance and sang funny songs. The rogue doesn't seem to be much of a singer.

He looks at the tabaxi who seems to be impatient.

"Hmmm. I'm not sure I'm much help."

00:22, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  survival.

Sorry, I have been a bit distracted. I'll get my head back into the game.

In reply to DM (msg # 49):

Thorfire sees the elf give him a rather quizzical stare and it appears that he may be thinking, which is rather unusual after all...Reaching for his trusty rapier, Celador, can I help with something?

In reply to DM (msg # 49):

Shaking his head at the elf, Therarak says, Thanks for the help Laz and Thorfire....Therarak studies the ground looking for an indication of the way to the fork and sees some clues on the direction they seek.

15:49, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 15 using 1d20+8.  Nature.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:52, Tue 04 Sept 2018.

Therarak stands on the river bank, high above the rapidly rushing water below. He considers the advice from his companions, looks at the crude map provided by Bobbin Goodfelllow for a moment, then leads the group back downstream for about 20 minutes. The terrain is difficult, but they make their way without anyone plunging into the frigid water.

After the hike is completed, they see the inlet of the other stream and the long narrow point between them that comprises the fork in the river. At the end of the point stands a large stone statue of a grotesque face, some 20 feet from top of head to the end of his chin, looking downstream with mouth open to display a row of large square teeth. Aside from that, there is little of note on the point aside from a few scraggley trees.

Probably most notable from their position on the bank is the rapid flow of the river. Crossing to the other side will not be a simple task, and the rocks sticking out at various angles suggest a mistake could be painful if not deadly!

OOC: will take a dc15 dex/athletics check to cross the river without falling in. Once one has made it, a rope can be used to give all others advantage. Falling in will cause 1d6 damage and a dc12 str save to get back out. Each failure on str check will cause another 1d6 of damage. 3 failed str checks will lead to further issues and ultimately possible drowning.

Other means of aid or assistance that you can dream up are possible, too.

This message was last edited by the GM at 19:08, Wed 05 Sept 2018.

In reply to DM (msg # 53):

Lazaret reaches into Celador's bag and takes out a rope. Tying it around his waist he leans in to his Elven friend and says, "I never liked getting wet. I'll jump from rock to rock. Should be easy. You hold onto this end and the others can follow my lead.

"Now wish me luck!" Lazaret touches Celador on the shoulder and casts Enhance Ability giving the Elf Cat's Grace.

"That's one!" he yells as he leaps on the first rock. "And two. And three. This IS easy!"

21:08, Today: Lazaret rolled 10 using 1d20+8 ((2))

"Oh shit!"


21:13, Today: Lazaret rolled 4 using 1d6.  Fall Damage.
21:13, Today: Lazaret rolled 3 using 1d20+1.  Strength save.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:14, Thu 06 Sept 2018.

"Laz!" Celador calls and the cat man falls into the rushing water, stifling a laugh, "Are you ok?"

He sees the tabaxi is struggling and starts to pull on the rope.

Does pulling on the rope give Laz advantage in his strength save against getting out of the water? or should I roll to pull him out?

Lazaret bravely attempts to cross the rushing stream. He makes good progress over the first couple stones, but eventually finds his way to an opening wider than his stride. He bounds across the gap, but slips upon landing and plunges into the frigid water. The rushing water pushes him into a patch of jagged rocks and then under the surface.

But while brave, the tabaxi isn't careless. The rope he attached to his waist prevents him from washing away from help. Celador heaves on the cord and sees Lazaret resurface with a gasp and flailing of arms.

OOC: Yes, the rope will give advantage on the strength check, so Laz can roll a 2nd time for strength. Success gets him back to the original side. Failure is another 1d6 of damage.

In reply to DM (msg # 56):

Lazaret, surprised at how slippery the rocks are falls under and is smashed against a jagged rock. His slender arms are not up the task of pulling himself out of the rushing water, but a firm tug on the rope reminds him that there is another way out.

07:45, Today: Lazaret rolled 15 using 1d20+1.  Strength save.

As Celador pulls the rope, Lazaret grabs it and pulls as well. Soon enough he is back on dry land. Soaked head to toe looking a lot skinnier than he cares to look. Laz rises to his feet standing next to Thorfire and shakes the water loose from his wet fur drenching the halfling in tepid and hairy liquid.

With Celador's help, Lazaret finds himself back on the river bank, coughing and choking a bit from his unexpected dip in the rushing water.

OOC: Laz can try again with a +2 bonus due to a bit of experience (he at least knows where one of the slippery rocks is). Same deal as before: DC15 DEX to cross, 1d6 damage on a fail and a DC12 STR check (with advantage due to rope) to get out without further damage.

"Laz, why don't you stay here and dry out and I'll carry the rope across," the elf offers the wet tabaxi.

Celador cautiously steps down to the rivers edge and quickly follows Lazaret's first two jumps to the relatively flat and dry rocks, but using his momentum is able to leap across the slippery rock and land at the edge of the next dry rock. He teeters momentarily and then regains his balance and continues to cross the rest of the river.

"See how it's done?" he calls back smugly, "Now tie that rope to the tree there and I'll tie it to this tree here and that should help the rest of you cross."

23:03, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 16 using 1d20+5.  athletics.

In reply to Lazaret (msg # 57):

Thorfire's hand slides to his dagger and he seriously contemplates driving it into the Tabaxi's eye...then there would be an empty eye socket.  What would he do with that?!?  Coming back to his senses, he says, I thought cats always land on their feet...not only do you suck with your spells, you also suck as a cat.  Are you good at anything?  Do it like this.

Thorfire takes one last look at Laz and quickly runs across the rope tied to the trees, although it is not as easy as it appears.

12:28, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 18 using 1d20+7, rerolling ones with rolls of 11.  Acrobatics.

12:28, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 9 using 1d20+7, rerolling ones with rolls of 2.  Acrobatics.

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 59):

Thanks for taking the rope across, I might need it.

Therarak cross the river too.

12:30, Today: Therarak Gemfinder rolled 20 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 5,18.

In reply to Therarak Gemfinder (msg # 61):

With the rope firmly in place, a now dry Lazaret sprints across at lightning speed arriving almost instantly next to Thorfire.

"It's a good thing that my magic helped Celador place that rope. Without it, you would have been dashed against the rocks too.

"Now let's look at this statue and get down to business."

17:50, Today: Lazaret rolled 18 using 2d20+8, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 4,10.  Acrobatics.

Celador nimbly crosses the rushing river with an elven grace. He fixes a rope to his side and sends the other end back to the others. With the help of said rope, passage is much improved and Thorfire, Therarak, and finally Lazaret make their way across with no further splashdowns.

Once on the opposite bank, the heroes make a quick survey of their surroundings. They stand about 100 feet from the giant stone statue and they realize now that it is much bigger than they originally thought. Closing in on it, they leave the scrubby cover of scattered pines and find themselves on a long sandbar that terminates where the two streams join into one.

The statue is cylindrical in shape and rises out from an patch of rocks. The cylinder is about 15 feet in diameter and almost 50 feet tall. From the very tip of the sandbar, the face on the stone cylinder stares directly at them, mouth agape to reveal what looks like an opening into darkness. Entering the opening requires crawling over the bottom row of the statue's teeth which, while flat, are still menacing due to their size.


OOC: See game map for a very crude sketch of the statue.

In reply to DM (msg # 63):

Lazaret approaches the stone head. "He looks a little angry."

Approaching the mouth, Lazaret pauses. "Umm. Perhaps I'll toss a small stone in first." He looks over the ground and selects the perfect stone, a smooth gray one about the size of his paw.

"I'll call you Malcolm. Your cousin Cornelius would be proud of what you are about to do." Lazaret gives the stone a quick kiss, then tosses it gently into the mouth.

Celador cautiously approaches the statue for a closer look, drawing his sword just in case. He stands about 15' to the left of Lazaret as he tosses a stone in the statues mouth.


23:28, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

In reply to Celador Qiris (msg # 65):


Thorfire also looks around for anything unusual.

17:07, Today: Thorfire Shortankard rolled 18 using 1d20+2, rerolling ones.  Perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:08, Wed 12 Sept 2018.

Malcolm flies bravely through the air into the mouth of the statue. When he hits the ground, there is a flash of light and he disappears, leaving behind nothing but the faint scent of brimstone.

Thorfire notices what looks like the edge of a large chalk circle inside the statue. From his perspective, however, he can only see a small part of it.

In reply to DM (msg # 67):

"That was incredible! Cornelius would be proud. And probably want to join him."

Lazaret carefully steps inside the mouth of the statue being careful not to touch the chalk circle. His feline vision scans the space for an exit.

Lazaret climbs over the statue's teeth into the dark interior. As his feet hit the ground, there is a flash of light and the tabaxi disappears!

As with Malcolm a few moments earlier, the remaining three catch a waft of brimstone, but see no signs of Lazaret.


OOC: Lazaret has disappeared! His adventure continues in Chapter 11. At this point, only Laz should have access to this thread.

In reply to DM (msg # 69):

Turning to Celador, Looks like the crazy cat wanted to join his pet rock, this looks like a good way to rid ourselves of his annoying antics.  Any suggestions on our next steps?

"Laz!" Celador exclaims as the tabaxi disappears. "Damn it!"

He looks back at the halfling who appears to be shrugging.

"We must go get him!" replies the elf as he grabs his shield and hurdles the statues teeth.

00:27, Today: Celador Qiris rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  athletics.

Celador leaps into the statue's gaping mouth in pursuit of Lazaret. Like his feline friend before him, he disappears in a flash of light, leaving only a puff of brimstone and a once again empty statue before Therarak and Thorfire.

OOC: Celador has also disappeared! His adventure continues in Chapter 11. At this point, Laz and Celador should have access to the thread... but are they in the same place???

In reply to DM (msg # 72):

Therarak looks at Thorfire and shakes his head. Stupid cat...damn elf!  We might regret this, but let's follow our companions.

Therarak and Thorfire climb into the statue.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:02, Wed 19 Sept 2018.

Uncertain of what lies before them, Therarak and Thorfire agree to keep the group together. They climb over the statue's lower teeth and step into the circle.

And like the others before them, there is a flash of light and the dimuntive duo disappears.

OOC: Next stop, Chapter 11!