I'm taking some liberty with your character to get setup.  If there is anything you don't like, let me know and we'll change it.  I did my best to match what personality I could gather from your background/character sheet.

It was the middle of the night in Amn.  Fithelos had setup camp east across Lake Esmel from Esmeltaran, on his way to claim his most recent bounty.  He could have made it to town earlier that evening, but preferred to spend the night away from the unfamiliar people in town (not that he was familiar with anyone from any town).  At least with the creatures that might pass his camp, he can always determine their intentions.  Normally the area would be busy, but the winter was particularly cold this year.  The rivers fed from The Snakewood had nearly frozen solid.  Anyone braving the cold would be at the hot springs across the lake.
Still, Fithelos felt like he was being watched.  "Judged" would probably be a more appropriate term.  It didn't worry him.  He was always prepared for an attack.  He planned to do one more quick scan of the area before lying down and closing his eyes.  Not to sleep, but to tempt whatever might be out there into attacking.

Before laying out the trap, a massive door unravels and opens in front of him.  A man, at least 10' tall, dressed in pure white monk's robes with a white mask and plain white staff nearly as tall as himself, glides through.

"Hello Fithelos.  I am Balance.  I have an important task for you."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:53, Wed 20 Mar 2019.

In reply to Titan of Balance (msg # 2):

"Balance?" Fithelos asks, mostly to himself. He makes no move to kneel, bow or greet the being with any kind of respect whatsoever. "And what are you, may I ask? Forgive my bluntness, but surely your divining powers revealed I'm not interested in serving immortal beings." He smirks. "Besides, you should know I am currently bound to serve another."

As an afterthought, Fithelos slaps the side of his leg. "You should also be aware I'm a cripple. No cleric I've met can heal it, though I'm not at all surprised considering how it was...healed...to begin with."

Fithelos limps to the nearest tree, leans back against it and slides down into a sitting position. "Speak your piece if you wish, but know I have experienced much disappointment in my time by putting my trust in greater powers." He pulls his ragged cloak together to cover his arms and legs and waits for Balance's response.


OOC: Fithelos limps everywhere as a deception to make himself look weak. It is second nature to him. If this Avatar/Titan thing has been watching him, he'll of course know it's a ruse. Fithelos knows there will be some who see through the deception, but he'll continue to do so anyway.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 3):

"I am a Titan, born when the blood of Aba and Ashar Talosfused together."

"The task I ask of you does not contradict your current service to Fraz-Urb'luu. You may refuse my request, but know I will be searching for your replacement while your body is rotting in the ground."

"Your leg should not be an issue on this journey. It will only be as difficult as you decide to make it. Your soul is the only thing that matters to me at the moment."

Balance lifts his staff and spins it with one hand, then stops it at an angle and off-center, yet somehow balanced on one finger. The lower, longer side fills with a deep purple, while the other side turns gold. He does this several times. The colors never mix and always stay on the same side of his finger, but the point at which it rests on his finger and the resultant angle change every time. During this, he continues to speak.

“Almost every living creature able to understand good and bad, leans to one side. Sometimes more, sometimes less. You, however, do not.”

Balance stops the staff once last time. This time the staff is perfectly horizontal and the colors begin to flow until each other like liquids. As they do, the staff fades to a dull white. Not a bright white as it had been when Balance first arrived, but the purple and gold are completely gone.

“I need someone who walks this fine line to retrieve the eye of a dragon. I am not asking you to put any trust in me and I promise nothing in return for completing this task. The journey will be long and have many opportunities to improve yourself and your situation, though it is obvious it is not as dire as you make people believe.  There will also be many chances to fail, as you will not be able to enlist the help of others along the way. Doing so would taint the outcome. You won’t be completely alone. I will grant you the ability to call upon myself or one of my brothers for 1 minute each day. During that time, you will be granted a limited set of our abilities to solve the problem at hand.”

“What say you, Fithelos? Do you accept?”
This message was last edited by the player at 21:18, Tue 11 Aug 2020.

In reply to Titan of Balance (msg # 4):

Fithelos sighs when the titan speaks about him rotting in the ground, his eyes go distant as he stares at the ground. He continues to listen to the rest of what Balance has to say in silence. When the question is asked if Fithelos accepts, the former monk looks up and nods.

"Seems fair, I guess. I'll accept," he tilts his head slightly to the side, studying the staff. "Can I have your stick?"

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 5):

"My staff is an extension of myself. It does not exist without me."

If Balance had any emotion, you could not detect it.

Balance holds his hand, palm up towards you. A small hourglass appears and floats toward you. As it gets closer, you can see half is filed with purple sand, the other gold. Both appear to be draining to the other side no matter how the hourglass sits, turning into white sand as the mix.

"When the sand is solid white, you make hold it to your lips, speak your request, then break it to call for the Titan whose skills are best suited to meet your request. If we refuse to answer your request, the hourglass will not break."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:46, Wed 20 Mar 2019.

In reply to Titan of Balance (msg # 6):

Fithelos will take the hourglass and slip it into his pocket. "You'll have to forgive my ignorance, but I do not know what you or your brothers are capable of doing. I only know you by the name you've given me. Other than the tricks you perform with your staff, what can you assist me with? Questions? Battle? Gold?"

Fithelos gets back to his feet. "Will it count against me if I were to request a map to this dragon eye you spoke of?"

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 7):

"We will help you through situations in which your own abilities are lacking.  My brothers abilities are well suited for most any battle.  I, however, may be able to assist with knowledge at times.  A rejected request will not reset the hourglass, so you need not worry about losing a charge."

Balance waves his hand to the side and a map, seemingly made of light, unravels. See Game Map

"Britannia is a land unknown to most outside of the island nation, which is the way they prefer it.  Because of this, your journey will start at the remote Shrine of Sacrifice in the northeast, and end when you have retrieved an eye of a dragon from Dungeon Destard in the south.  Whether your path is direct, or takes you to other parts of the island nation is up to you.  You will not be able to travel out of Britannia during that time."

The map rolls itself up, turns into a point of light, which then floats into your hand, disappearing.  As it disappears into your hand, you hear "mappa mundi".  You understand this is the command to bring the map into, and out of, existence.

In reply to Titan of Balance (msg # 8):

"And what can you tell me of your brothers? How am I to address them should I require their aid?"

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 9):

"Your request will be the only way to communicate with us.  We will decide who helps based on your request."

In reply to Titan of Balance (msg # 10):

"Do you need me to leave now, or can I rest for the evening?" The former monk doesn't give Balance a chance to respond. "You know what? I prefer traveling under the stars...or clouds...the shroud of darkness. This way was it?" he points to the Northeast before heading in the direction if his first task.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 11):

"As eager as you may be to get started, I don't think you will find the Shrine on an island whose whereabouts are unknown by walking in a random direction."

Another flick of the wrist and a new door unravels in front of you.  The door opens and in front of you is a bleeding shrine. http://www.uoguide.com/images/...Sacrifice_shrine.jpg

Assuming your enter, since you were already on your way before he opened the portal...

As you step through, you see nothing but forest, but can hear a river to your west, and the faint tides of the ocean to your east.  As the portal closes, you hear Balance speak one last time, "May your choices always be true."

The shrine, though it constantly runs with blood, is surrounded by life.  The clearing for the shrine is covered in flowers.  You hear the birds and the bugs singing all around.

Roll Survival.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 13):

07:27, Today: Fithelos rolled 8 using 1d20+2.  Survival.

After taking in the beautiful scenery, Fithelos goes to first patch of flowers next to the alter and picks one of the flowers to examine it.




OOC: Fithelos wasn't heading in a random direction. He was heading Northeast, where Balance said he needed to go first before heading south.


This message was last edited by the player at 12:36, Tue 26 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 14):

but he obviously wasn't paying attention when Balance showed him a map of an island he had never seen before and said its location was unknown.


Though there is nothing particularly special about the flower, it is surprising to see it growing here. It's the type of flower you would expect to have daily care to bloom in a noble's garden, but there obviously isn't anyone tending the soil here.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 15):

OOC: Ah wait. I know why I'm confused. I looked at the game map before I made my first post and assumed I was already fairly close to where I needed to be...and then when he offered the map, I was thinking it was a map to where I was...sorry about that. Don't think I passed the survival check.

Fithelos will pluck a flower from the ground, slide the stem into his outer robes and then head South.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:00, Tue 26 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 16):

Since you have the map, can you give me a better idea of your route? Even if it's like a screenshot you draw on with your finger, it will be better than me trying to guess and forcing you somewhere you didn't plan to go.

The DC for the survival check was 12.  I'll start saying that when I call for the roll. 

Leaving the clearing and the shrine, you immediately feel a cool wind. Between how far north you are, and the ocean to one side, it makes sense. You're more surprised you didn't feel it before.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 17):

As Fithelos walks--he will take out the map and try to get his bearings as to where he is--

OOC: Fithelos would like to travel to Vesper. From there he would attempt to travel by boat South of Britain, where he would travel inland to Destard.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:48, Tue 26 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 18):

You arrive mid-afternoon at the north side of Vesper where there are two islands on the mainland, all of the rest you see are sitting on man-made miniature islands connected by short bridges.  From your point of view, there is a single dock with a few small fishing vessels.  The "islets" you can see, have a fair amount of people walking around or handling daily business.

You are currently just northeast of the two buildings, unable to see exactly what they are, but are most likely local shops.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 19):

"Hopefully 20 gold will go further than it does in Amn," Fithelos says to himself as he starts toward the nearest building (or person). He favors his right leg as he approaches the city, showing only a slight limp as he presses forward.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 20):

When you get between the two buildings, you see the signs for the The Adventurers Supplies (east building) and the The Spinning Wheel (west,  clothier).
Just past The Spinning Wheel is a bridge into the rest of the town.
http://www.venus.gen.tr/ultima/maps/vesper.gif

In reply to Twiz (msg # 21):

Fithelos will head for the Adventurer's Supplies.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 22):

The Adventurer's Supplies is well stocked. Foods, reagents, an assortment of tools and kits, weapons, armor... Most anything except clothing.
Behind the counter, an elf is stocking the smaller, easier to pocket items, such as small potions. When you walk in, she says, "Welcome. Let me know if there is anything I can help you with." though she doesn't turn around.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 23):

OOC: Is she hot?

Fithelos will study her backside for a moment, assessing any kind of threat she may pose. "Actually I am in need of traveling supplies--a bag with reinforced straps, at least a hundred feet of eight weave rope, a couple torches, a small bell, fishing line, a spyglass, waterskin, chalk, caltrops, rations...and a walking stick that won't snap on me the moment I put it to rigorous use. Also, if you could direct me to the swiftest path to the harbor I'd be most obliged."

Fithelos counts the various items on his fingers. "And do you have anything extremely flammable? Something more volatile than lamp oil. Preferably in a vial..."

She's average for an elf, but elves are considered a beautiful race.
What are you wearing?

In reply to Twiz (msg # 25):

Fithelos is currently wearing leather boots, loose, worn pants held up with a rope belt, a plain gray, long sleeved long shirt (stops above the knee) and a loose-fitting, heavily-patched robe.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 26):

The woman looks at you, gives a fake smile and states, "You are aware that these things will cost actual money. We don't barter here."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 27):

Fithelos looks confused. "Obviously. Does it look like I came equipped to barter?" to emphasize his point he holds up his arms and turns around in a circle. "I've got next to nothing. That's why I came here! To make several purchases!"

He pauses, looking at his clothes. And then as if noticing his appearance for the first time he peers up at the Elven female in shock. "You think...oh...hahahahahahaa..." Fithelos laughs at his predicament. "I assure you I can pay." He takes the small pouch hanging from the side of his belt and shakes it. (Which he doesn't make any sound, Fithelos purposely has the coins mixed with sand so they won't make that 'clinking' sound). "Bah," he opens the top and pours out a small pile of sand. Using his fingers as a sieve, he lets the particles fall through onto the floor and eventually a few gold pieces are revealed.

"See!" he exclaims. "I have money, oh flawless one! My appearance is but a deception!"
The former monk composes himself then and lowers his voice. "I don't get out often. My apologies. I would like to purchase some of your wares, Lady...?"

OOC: Fithelos has 20 gold, total.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:07, Wed 27 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 28):

With the smile gone...
"Your look is a deception? Who are you trying to deceive? And what, pray tell, are these?“ she says after picking up a coin. "I'm not sure what sewer you found these in, but you'll have to exchange your gold at the bank before you can do business at any of the shops here."
She looks over to a closed door and yells, "Sesinde, sweetheart, can you come here?"

A drow steps or if the back room, "Yes dear?"

"Can you finish helping out guest here. I'm afraid he is beyond what I can provide?" without waiting for a response, she had to the back room, while Sesinde walks up to you, see your gold and frowns.
"I haven't seen anyone from Faerûn in a long time. I'm assuming this wasn't a planned trip or you'd be a bit more prepared. So what sent you here?"

In reply to Twiz (msg # 29):

Upon seeing the Drow, Fithelos leaps back on instinct and crouches into a low battle stance. When the she-elf questions who he needs a deceive, Fithelos' eyes dart from her to the Drow and back again several times.

When he realizes he's not going to be attacked, (at least not right away) Fithelos straightens but keeps his distance. In response to the Dark Elf's question: "Traveling here was indeed not on my list of things to accomplish this...year. I figured I'd be traveling somewhere within Aber-Toril...which...I have obviously made a grievous error." He clears his throat. "I will...be taking my leave,"

He goes to the door, avoiding eye contact with the Drow. "The lady has a lovely store," he says as he passes.

When outside and out of earshot from the shop, he breathes a sigh of relief. Memories of the Underdark attempt to invade his thoughts, but he pushes them aside as he has done so many times before. He studies his gold pouch. "Gold is no good here? What do they use, beads?" he shakes his head and looks for the first non-Drow to ask where the bank is.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:16, Wed 27 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 30):



Sesinde: "I can help you get what you need.  If you wander around here too long, people are going to realize you're an outsider.  A lot of them won't be as nice as me.  I've been through this.  I can get you in touch with people that will help you, your clothes, basic expectations, coin, but you have to promise to leave Vesper by the morning.  Britain is lovely, Trinsic is wealthy... you may even fit in in Nujel'm."


If you continue out, Sesinde will wish you luck in a sarcastic tone.  If you continue to leave, you can enter the clothier to find someone, or go to the first islet.  Though there will be plenty of people to talk to, you'll see the sign on the largest building (blue roof, upside-down 'L') is labeled "The Mint of Vesper" with a picture of a stack of coins.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 31):

Fithelos stops at the sarcastic remark. "Wish me luck?" he asks, if somewhat with a hint of anger in his voice. "And why would a Drow aid a surface dweller? You can change worlds or dimensions or wherever in the Nine Hells I am," he points at the Dark Elf and whispers, "I know of your kind, Sesinde. Intimately.
"I spent years in the Underdark avoiding your people. The children of Lolth butchered my companions, murdered those who gave me shelter and summoned the Demon that..."

The warlock stops talking. "One never forgets their time in the World Below." Fithelos goes to lean against the nearest wall. "I've known you less than ten minutes, but I've known the Drow most my life," He smirks. "Trust is not simply given. How do I know you and your enchantress didn't set up at the edge of the city to ensnare travelers from afar? How do I know she's not a Dark Elf, or that you'll keep your word?
"No. As convienent as it would be, I cannot trust you, Drow."

OOC: I trust him, Fithelos does not.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 32):

Makes absolute sense to me.  That's why I went ahead and told you where to find the bank.  I wasn't sure you'd even acknowledge him.

"I did my time in Tier Breche, battling in Melee-Magthere.  I know a warrior when I see one.  Even with that bum leg, I'm sure you are fierce.  I cannot trust you either.  I just want you out of my home before you whatever you're running *looks at your leg, obviously pun intended* from, or to, shows up."

"Word of warning though, when others realize you are from much farther away than Moonglow, they will stop being so kind.  Outsiders have been very disruptive in the past.  Have your gold exchanged at the bank, it's normal practice in Vesper since we have the mint. Then head to the 'Majestic Boat'.  You'll be able to hitch a trade ship to half the cities of Britannia from there, but it may be a week or so before you can find the right one."

"Or I can make connections for you, and you could be on your way tonight."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 33):

Fithelos considers Sesinde's words. As much as he mistrusts the drow, he knows logic when he hears it. At this very moment, Fithelos stops and thinks about this supposed quest he is on. He at first passed it off as another mission similar to the bounties he'd been tracking down.

In his defense, he was tired.

He was just now realizing he hadnt asked anything about a reward...or how he might get back. He didnt even know what drove him to do as the Titan asked, other than it was a welcome change to his monotonous life.

And now he had to rely on the word of a Dark Elf. One who had survived the trials of the Melee-Magthere, nonetheless. His story was no doubt an interesting one.

Fithelos shook his head. "Contact your people," he glared at the dark-skinned elf. "Know this--if you do anything suspicious, if I so much as sense a trap being set...I wont hesitate in returning the treatment."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:08, Wed 03 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 34):

"Don't cause problems in our town; we won't cause problems for you."

"Go to the bank and exchange your gold.  Be in The Marsh Hall around midnight.  Until then, feel free to not come back here."

You here things shuffling around in the back.

"The dwarves will be here soon with their leatherwork.  I'd rather them not ask my wife about you.  There is another general wares shop closer to the Hall."

So I would assume just about everyone from Faerûn knows the dwarves are known for metalwork, not leather.  If Fithelos doesn't, he wouldn't realize his statement was weird.  Whether Fithelos thinks it's curious, a side effect of this island, or missed it entirely is obviously up to you.

Just so you know, everything is planned or written down after the fact, so if Rocky is curious about anything that Fithelos is going to ignore, I don't mind sharing, assuming it's past the point of no return on that info.

Dwarves with their leatherwork is strange to Fithelos. (Not just in Faerûn, but in the majority of every realm and plane are dwarves known for armor, weapon and gem crafting over leather).

OOC: I doubt this next part will work, but I'm going to try it anyway.

Fithelos will nod as he listens to the Dark Elf. "Exchange gold. Marsh Hall by midnight. Don't come back here. Got it." He will also look around the shop to look for any space that is away from the main area which has shadows. (Could be a corner, next to a shelf, doesn't matter).

"I thank you for your aid, Dark Elf. I bid you farewell."

And with that, Fithelos would like to cast Darkness. (Darkness should conceal him from even the Dark Elf's sight, as it is magical darkness. Fithelos is not impeded by it due to 'Devil's Sight') He will then move to the shadowed area--and use 'One with Shadows' to go invisible, at which point Darkness will be dismissed. There he will remain still and silent, waiting for the dwarves.


((08:32, Today: Fithelos rolled 24 using 1d20+8. Stealth.)-if needed?
This message was last edited by the player at 13:34, Thu 28 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 36):

Since he was accepted into Melee-Magthere, he would have been required to spend time in the Sorcere, so he has a base understanding on magic.  Which means he would know the room going black is unnecessary for you to vanish before his eyes.  You're in a shop with a door that didn't open or close, so you probably didn't go out that way.  He definitely has no clue where you are, but may believe you are still in the building.  Roll deception (DC 14) to see if you trick worked.

As soon as you cast Darkness, you hear him stomp on the ground.  Two scimitars pop up out of the ground, one on each side of them.  He grabs them out of the air and gets into a defensive stance.  The way he performed the maneuver, you worry at first that he might still be able to see you, but he makes no other moves.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 37):

11:25, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+8.  Deception.

OOC: The darkness was more for dramatic effect, for it is by far nothing new to any Drow--Fithelos knows it is a innate ability among their people. He knows that even though they can't see through it, they are trained to fight within it. That's why I rolled the stealth--to see if he heard where I moved to. Because once I remain still, unless he has blindsense or can see invisible creatures...he wouldn't know where I went. However. I can also understand if he is attempting to piece together the little plan I've concocted.
If I could cause smoke to poof up when I tried to vanish, I would have done that. NINJA VANISH!

Fithelos will call upon his training to keep his breathing and body as silent and still as possible, hoping he pulled off his little deception.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:35, Thu 28 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 38):

When the darkness clears, Sesinde doesn't move, but you see his eyes dart around the room.  He slowly stands up, and begins walking the room.  When he arrives back at the counter, he drops the blades back into the floor.  You hear him muttering about how much trouble you could cause.  He leaves to the back room.

Both he and his wife return and continue stocking shelves.  After roughly 10 minutes, the door swings open.  Three dwarves, two of which are carrying a crate each, enter.

Sesinde, "Gentlemen, you're late.  I hope your travels were safe."

The lead dwarf, "Aye lad.  Just had to take short detour."
Dwarf 1, "Bofron got lost again."
Bofron, "Cram Nuf or It'll be me you're carrying next time!"
Dwarf 1, "Fine, then maybe I can navigate us..."

Bofron ignores this and says, "Bella, how have you been?  Any interesting supplies come through recently?"

Bella, "The wares are the same, the people have been strange though."
Before she could continue, Sesinde speaks up, "So what have you gentleman brought today?  I was told it was going to be a cut above."

Nuf and dwarf 2 put there crates down and open them.  Bofron grabs some leather armor out and holds it up. From your point of view, the only interesting thing about the armor is the strange green tint that has been applied to it.  "Aye, lad.  We've mixed leathers for this armor.  Thin in ye parts that need to move a little more, thick where ye need a little more protection.  Layered and camouflaged as always by our finest craftsmen.  What say ye?"

Bella, "How much extra is this going to set us back?"
Bofron, "10 gold per set.  The bankers figured the extra movement would put the value around 15."
Sesinde, "Not likely.  We have a hard time selling the current leather at 10.  9 gold and you buy back the old stock."
Bofron, "Ye have a deal."
Nuf whispers to Dwarf 2 (you are close enough to them to hear everything), "They're going to be upset when they find out the new armor is cheaper to make."  Dwarf 2 busts out laughing and gets hit in the head by Bofron.

Nuf and Dwarf 2 carry the crates to the back with Bella while Bofron and Sesinde handle the gold.  There is a bit more conversation, but nothing of value.
On the way out of the shop, Bofron smacks Dwarf 2 again for laughing, causing him to fall over, dropping the crate and spilling its contents right next to you.


Roll a D100.
  1 -  90: they pick up the armor, apologize, and quickly leave.
 91 -  97: a leather glove lands on your foot.
 98 - 100: a leather glove lands on your head.

I did not plan at all for you to just sit and listen.  Doing all the characters at once sucked.  That's why I ended with them chatting about nothing.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 39):

13:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 67 using 1d100.  DM Request.

Fithelos watches the entire event unfold before him in fascination. Part of him can't help but wonder if the dwarves are truly fooling Sesinde, or if the dark elf has the upperhand somehow. (If the dwarves really did outwit the dark elf, he'd have to go outside to see if Owlbears were flying.)

He was curious to see if Bella was it? and Sesinde would discuss the prices or the transaction with the dwarves further once their guests departed. He was also curious as to why they were so eager to have him on his way. So many questions.
Nevertheless, it wasn't his place to get involved. Their business was their own. It did however puzzle him as to why dwarves were dealing in leathers. Did they not live in the mountains in this Britainia? Who did the metal work if not them?

So many questions. Yet, he didn't plan on staying in this place. For starters, he wasn't welcome. But then again, he wasn't the most charismatic person around...no doubt a bard of some kind would have had a better first impression.


Fithelos will wait a little while longer, watching and listening. The moment an opportunity presents itself for him to exit without Bella and Sesinde noticing, he'll do so then.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 40):

From where you entered Vesper, you could see the mountains near and north of Minoc which is west of Vesper.  Now whether there was ore they could mine was unknown to you.

You easily make it out of the shop when they both go to the back of the shop with empty boxes.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 41):

Fithelos will first head to the 'Mint of Vesper' to get his 20 gold exchanged.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:59, Thu 28 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 42):

The Mint of Vesper is fairly busy as they close in the next hour. There are 5 employees behind the counter, four city guards, and 7 other customers, one there with her two children.
When you arrive at the counter to speak to an employee, the rest of the room goes extremely silent.  Everyone else appears to be doing exactly what they were doing before, but you cannot hear anything.

"What can I do for you today, sir?" the employee asks impatiently.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 43):

Fithelos will set his pouch on the counter. "I need this exchanged for whatever currency is accepted here, please and thankyou."

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 44):

The employee gives you a strange glance, but then retrieves the scales. He wipes down both sides and waits for it to stop moving to show it is balanced.

He picks up your coins, blows out the sand, then sets them on one side of the scale.

"All in gold, sir?"

Whatever you choose, the coins end up being very similar in size.  When he places the 19th gold piece, the scale falls in your favor.  He takes two off, and offers your 18 gold pieces, in whatever denomination of your choosing, in exchange for your coin.

In the background you see an employee dumping someone else's gold exchange onto a conveyor.  When it gets close to the wall, the a door opens and a glow of heat shines through.  They are likely melting the gold for minting in the basement.  A small elevator comes up from the opposite corner.  From it, a halfling carrying a box of gold bricks emerges.
None of this seems out of place, except that there are no dwarves seen as part of the process of metalworking, though they may be in the basement.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 45):

"Yes, all in gold." When his eyes get to the conveyer belt, Fithelos asks, "Why don't the Dwarves have an interest in gold or blacksmithing?" his eyes return to the banker. "How much would passage be to Trinsic by sea?"

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 46):


The banker gives you a strange look, then relaxes and says, “Nujel'm?"

"The Dwarves of Minoc haven't smithed in over a century. All of their mines were sealed after a string of mishaps. Now they work in wood, leathers, and cloths. I'm surprised the dwarves in Nhjel'm still smith. Moradin forbids it here."


The banker hands you your gold.
"Usually just a couple gold this time of year depending upon your accommodations. The Britain ship just left, so I'd expect the Trinsic ship to come in in a couple of days. They try to stagger the larger ships. You'll get more information near the docks if you are in a hurry to leave." the last sentence is said in a way to let you know he wouldn't mind if you left earlier.

In a professional, but obviously annoyed tone , "In fact, you'll probably be more comfortable at one of the taverns over there. I have more clients to tend to, of you don't mind."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 47):

Fithelos picks up on the attitude and tone the banker takes with him. "Something seems to be vexing about my countenance everywhere I go," he smells the sleeve of his robe. Yes it was worn, but he didn't stink. And yes, his attire was patched but it wasn't filthy. "I am for thinking, perhaps if you could inform me on what bothers not only you--but everyone in this welcoming city so much, there is a possibility I could put forth some effort into changing and as a result minimize the discomfort I am causing to those around me."

He pauses.

"Just a thought." he places his fist and palm together before giving the banker a small bow. "Nevertheless, I thank you for your services and information provided. You have my...boundless gratitude."

He will then turn to leave. As he makes his way to the docks, he will keep an eye open for the Marsh Hall.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 48):

Since you are going to walk the town.
https://uo.stratics.com/content/atlas/vesper.shtml

Other than the snobby people, our rather much like them, Vesper seems to be about the same as most medium sized towns in Faerûn. You do notice more dwarves with crates not full of metal. From the looks of it, Vesper seems to be a busy trade port. Given its size and location, it doesn't make a lot of sense, but it works for them. You've learned people don't always care about what's the most efficient way of getting things done.

Where to?

In reply to Twiz (msg # 49):

No response from the banker? How rude.

Fithelos will first head to the Majestic Boat to purchase passage to Trinsic. After, he will head to the Adventurer's Friend, hoping these merchants will be a little more comfortable doing business with him now that he has the correct coinage.

Also, Sesinde asked him not to return to the Adventurer's Supplies and Fithelos rarely returns to places he isn't wanted.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 50):

My bad on the banker, I thought they way you said it, it was a rhetorical question. He would've just apologized and said he really didn't have time to chat.

At the Majestic Boat, on one side of the building, there are booths setup with names to most of the cities in Britannia. Some of the smaller towns are combined by proximity on the map. Each booth has a list of registered boats, what cargo they accept, if they are full, and their expected departure. Some booths have a person in them, some don't. Britain and Trinsic each have a uniformed employee. Most likely from the city stations at them.
The other side is a tavern. It is about half full, but still pretty quiet compared to most you've been in. A sign behind the counter states, "Drink Limit: 2".

In reply to Twiz (msg # 51):

You know, I just realized I am leaving tonight. I don't need to purchase passage to Trinsic. I may have to save my money for whoever I'm traveling with from Marsh Hall.

Fithelos will head straight to the Adventurer's Friend.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 52):

I just figured you were keeping your options open, since you don't like the Drow.

Marsh Hall is more of what you'd find to expect from a tavern. It's really evening, so things are just beginning to pick up. Even so, there is already a large group of drunken sailors in a side room, playing card games, flirting with what you are sure are prostitutes, and arguing about the fastest routes to different cities.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:08, Fri 29 Mar 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 53):

It's not that Fithelos doesn't like the Drow...he just doesn't trust him. There is indeed a bit of fascination he has for Sesinde, as he has somehow managed to ensnare the heart of a female elf...

Wait. I wanted to go the Adventurer's Friend before Marsh Hall. I need to purchase some traveling gear. Unless you just want to give it to me. (All the things I asked for back at the Adventurer's Supplies)
This message was last edited by the player at 17:52, Fri 29 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 54):

The Adventurer's Friend is larger, busier, and more expensive. They have basically the same options as Sesinde and Bella, but most of it seems cheaply made, with the exception of items tagged with a Dwarf's clan name. The leather armor is well made, but is not camoflouged like it was before.
Given the number of people in the store, no one approaches to offer assistance. There are two employees frantically trying to keep up with the line at the tills.
You are looking for:


You are able to find the items except for the fire liquid on the shelves. There are potions behind the counter.

From DnDBeyond.com
Rope 1gp hempen, 2gp silk
Torch 1cp
Bell 1gp
Spyglass 1000gp
Waterskin 2sp
Chalk 1cp
Caltrops (20) 1gp
Rations 5sp
Woodwn staff 5gp
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:36, Fri 29 Mar 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 55):

Dammit, Fithelos thinks to himself. He's fine with paying a little extra for better quality items...but he refuses to fork over his precious moneys for garbage-tier adventuring gear.
He sighs, thinking back on the days when the other members in his party would handle merchants, swindlers and prices.

Fithelos will head back to the Adventurer's Supplies. This time, before he reaches the shop he will find somewhere relatively private (in an alley, behind a tree, in some stables, a changing room? etc) and use 'Mask of Many Faces' to alter his appearance.

Fithelos at this point will appear to be wearing a white, poet's silk shirt, black breeches and boots, and a dark green overcoat that goes down to his calves. Nothing super-elegant, but something that doesn't make him look like a monk living a vow of poverty.

He knows there will be some who see through the illusion--even Sesinde and Bella.
But at least he won't appear to be dirt poor. That is, if they'll even let him into their shop.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:24, Fri 29 Mar 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 56):

When you arrive back at the Adventurer's Supplies, Bella is at the counter and greets you as she did before.

"Welcome. Let me know if there is anything I can help you with."

As before, there are no fire bombs on the shelves, but there are potions behind the counter.

Rope 7sp hempen, 7sp silk
Torch 1cp
Bell 7sp
Spyglass 750gp
Waterskin 2sp
Chalk 1cp
Caltrops (20) 7sp
Rations 3sp
Wooden staff 4gp

In reply to Twiz (msg # 57):

By the Circle of Eight! That's a steal of a deal on that spyglass! Another day, perhaps.
"I shall purchase some of your finest chalk, a bell, a finely crafted walking stick, caltrops, a waterskin and some fishing line, if you have it."

Fithelos will then look around to see if any of the armor from the dwarves is on display. If so, he will ask how much it goes for.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 58):

Bella smiles slyly.
"I'm not sure what you're friend did, but Sesinde left right after him."
She grabs a bag of rations and adds it.
"They're going to go bad soon anyway."

"The armor is sold as a full set. Much better than you'll get elsewhere, and only 12 gold." I don't think you're friend has enough on him for that."

In reply to Bella (msg # 59):

Fithelos is at first confused. I have friends? Since when? Then realization strikes him. "Ah yes, my friend. A bit of an enigma, that one is." Fithelos graciously takes the supplies he asked for, hands her 10 gold and thanks Bella with a slight nod of his head. Then he walks over to inspect the armor...

OOC: This is a complete bluff as Fithelos doesn't know much about armor other than what he's learned from his former party. (He's never had much use for armor himself being a monk). He is using knowledge acquired from earlier.

The seasoned adventurer walks over and begins to inspect the armor. He will take some time, studying where it was pieced together, attempts to stretch it in order to test flexibility--and finally knocks on it with his ear pressed up against the chest piece. Once finished he'll take a step back and say, "Tis true, the quality is better than what the other shops are offering, but 12 gold is a little high. The merchant who sold you this is cheating you if you paid more than 5 for this. While the quality is good, this particular leather isn't difficult to come by. And the method they used..." he'll run his hand across one of the shoulders of the armor set. "The Luvaren method--quite effective using water and oil to harden and extend the life of the armor, but doesn't take half the materials or time as when one uses beeswax.

He takes a step back and smiles. "Food for thought."

Fithelos bows again. "I thank you for your services mi'lady. I shall recommend your store to those I meet in my travels." He then turns and departs from the store, heading in the direction of Marsh Hall.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:42, Wed 03 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 60):

Bella looks at you quizzically, "I'll take that into consideration, but not everything is about money. The Dwarves are my friends, and they have hard lives. Sisende doesn't always agree, but he'd also be upset that I threw in the extra rations."

Fithelos will nod and say no more about it. Though it may seem odd to him the dwarves would charge their friends extra, it could very well be a common practice in this realm. Who was he to judge?

On to Marsh Hall.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 62):

Marsh Hall is more of what you'd find to expect from a tavern. It's mid-evening, so things are just beginning to pick up. Even so, there is already a large group of drunken sailors in a side room, playing card games, flirting with what you are sure are prostitutes, and arguing about the fastest routes to different cities.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 63):

Fithelos will go to the nearest unoccupied chair and have himself a seat. If he is approached by a bartender/innkeeper, he would like some tea, room-temperature water or the weakest alcoholic beverage if neither are available.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 64):

Are you still in disguise?

The server will get you some tea, but you are mostly ignored by the staff after that unless you speak up.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 65):

Fithelos is still in disguise. He will drink his tea quietly, avoiding eye contact with the ruffians in the side room (that is to say, if he can even see into it).

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 66):

The side room is not closed off. You can see and hear pretty much everything.

Do you plan on doing anything while there, or just waiting for the clock to tick to midnight?

In reply to Twiz (msg # 67):

Waiting for the clock to tick until midnight.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 68):

I just realized I missed the bag you wanted, so you can just have a bag, if you want.

The tavern gets pretty busy, the mess spills over into where you're sitting, but no one bothers you.

As it gets closer to midnight, people are still coming and going, but no one is approaching you.

Should I assume you are watching for someone that might be your contact?

In reply to Twiz (msg # 69):

Indeed. Oh. And when it's pretty close to midnight, I'll drop the Mask of Many faces invocation so I appear as hobo Fithelos.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 70):

So Fithelos is in the middle of a busy tavern, has been waited on by the staff, is aware that this town is at least somewhat hostile toward outsiders, no one has ever seen you before, and you're going to change your entire appearance without waiting for a distraction or walking out and coming back in?
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:09, Wed 03 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 71):

OOC: Yes. I mean, I would wait until no one is looking (which I was under the impression that was already the case being mostly ignored and no one paying attention to me) and I'll just drop the spell. I'm assuming Sesinde told his contact to look for a human hobo...

Unless of course I perceive otherwise. Do I need to hone my senses in making a perception check or something of the like?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:55, Wed 03 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 72):

I assumed when you changed your appearance, you also changed your face and possibly race, but you didn't say that. Did you?
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:30, Wed 03 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 73):

Nope. Just what I was wearing.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:09, Wed 03 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 74):

I thought you were changing everything, and that was going to cause a lot of problems.  I'm glad I read it all again.


You hear a drunkard comment about your clothes, but another just tells him he has had too much to drink, then tosses him another.

The server comes up and asks for you to close your tab, assuming you probably were wearing the get up before because you couldn't actually cover it.  Assuming there are no issues there, you're out 2 copper, unless you want to leave a tip.


A large, body-building looking male human enters the tavern with a dark red, female tiefling in black leather armor playing a flute, and a male halfling on her shoulders playing an accordion https://youtu.be/Nrj8EZm9ca8?t=8.

Roll Wisdom (DC13)

In reply to Twiz (msg # 75):

18:39, Today: Fithelos rolled 12 using 1d20+2.  Wisdom.

Fithelos will leave a single gold piece for his drink and time there (for occupying a seat). When the singing muppet pirates enter, Fithelos watches in amusement.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 76):

Why are you rolling like me?

  No.

You start dancing and singing as well.  It's just captivating.  After a minute, you meet eyes with the stout halfling.  He leans over and whispers into the tiefling's ear.  She stops playing, takes out a blade, and throws it toward your arm.

Roll Acrobatics (DC 10) with disadvantage (since you are dancing).
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:39, Thu 04 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 77):

22:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 24 using 1d20+8.  Acrobatics.
22:28, Today: Fithelos rolled 19 using 1d20+8.  Acrobatics, Disadvantage

OOC: As a reaction can I use my monk ability, Deflect Missiles? If so, I'll need to know how much damage I take. And thats if I'm allowed while captivated...
If I am allowed, I'd like to spend 1 ki point to catch and throw the knife back at the Tiefling--into the wall next to her head or anywhere close letting her and everyone there know not to throw knives at me.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 78):

As soon as she throws the blade, you stop dancing and catch the blade, ready to return the favor.  However, upon catching it, you realize the blade is covered, and, at most, would have annoyed you.

I will allow you to have the reaction, since you smashed the DC with disadvantage.  I figured you'd want to know about the blade first.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 79):

In this case--Fithelos would like to pluck it out of the air (as though she had just tossed it to him) and look it over. (That is, if I am able to stop dancing with Tim Curry). Fithelos finds it most odd that someone would throw a knife at him while it was still sheathed.

Unless of course, those who are taking him to Trinsic are looking for someone who is a seasoned adventurer (at least, he's hoping that's how Sesinde described him).

"I must say, this is easily the most uninviting city I've ever visited. And I've traversed the Underdark." If there is nothing special about the knife after examination, he will hand it back to the Tiefling.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 80):

The tiefling blinks astonished, but the halfling hops off of her shoulders and appears unphased.

"Evenin' mate. I'm Orso. Impressive performance. We were sure you were under the spell of our music.
Not sure where the Underdark is, but we don't travel there, but can probably get you close."

The man with him hops over the bar, grabs a case of ale, and brings it to the table. He and the halfling each take a bottle and start drinking.

"Our mutual acquaintance says you need to get out tonight. Good news, we have a ship moving out of Minoc in a few hours. So, where abouts is this 'Underdark'?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:48, Thu 04 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 81):

"The Underdark is not somewhere I would ever return to by choice. It is a place riddled with..." He pauses, thinking on how he isn't here to make friends. "It is the world residing beneath the Forgotten Realms. Those on the surface have little business traveling below." He clears his throat. "I am indeed looking for passage out of the city. I wish to travel to Trinsic. The sooner the better."

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 82):

Orso, "Well that'll be a bit of a problem. We're not really allowed to dock in Trinsic."
The large man, in a low grumble, "Britain."
Orso, "Right Krunk, or Britain."
Krunk, "Magincia."
Orso, looking annoyed, "Well of course not Magincia. Not after last week."
Krunk, "Vesper."
Orso, "Okay Krunk. We go to smaller, docks like Yew, Buc's Den, Serpent's Hold, Jhelom... Now we do business in all over, but you'd have to ride with the caravan, or you could catch a ride with a standard trade ship from there."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 83):

"Well," Fithelos says a little frustrated for putting anything remotely resembling faith in a Dark Elf. "Thank you for informing me of everywhere you can't go; especially the one place I need too." Fithelos massages the bridge of his nose. "What about just North of Trinsic?...you wouldn't even have to take me the full distance. My true destination isn't even near the city. If you could let me off between Britain and Trinsic I'd be more than content."

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 84):

"We steer clear of the big cities' water and their intrusive guards. Where are you wanting to go exactly? We can probably put you close enough you'll be able to hitch a ride for the rest of the journey."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 85):

"How close can you get me to Destard?"

In reply to Twiz (msg # 85):

"Destard? On your way to rid the city of Skara Brae of the mother of dragons? She's been pretty active recently, since her kids were born.
Well, we haven't been able to get to Skara in the last couple of months, because of that dragon, so I'll cut you a deal. I can get you to Jhelom, so you can take a boat up from the south, or Yew from the north. It's a longer trip, but you'll go through Skara on the way and be able to talk to the citizens there.
You get that dock opened back up, and I'll make sure you have safe travels across Britannia as long as there is air in my lungs."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 87):

"How much is this going to cost me?" Fithelos asks, as he knows his coffers are running dry. (9 gold left). "And why would I take the longer route--if I can just pay and go to where I want too? What is it you're offering I can't get from taking a normal, law-abiding ship, aside from leaving right now?"

Fithelos' eyebrows come together in a V-shape. "Because the way I see it--I could leave immediately and take longer to get to an out-of-the-way location, or wait...and get to where I want in a shorter time period. Unless of course you're offering free passage. Then I can't help but wonder, why would you do such a thing? What do you have to gain?"

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 88):

All three laugh.
Orso, "My boy, we don't do anything for free, but it's already been paid for, including if you decide to hitch a ride with one of our partners."
"Besides, we were told you needed to be out tonight, not that you needed the fastest journey. If speed is important, we'll head north to Jhelom. Day and a half there, and a day's travel to Destard from that point.  Which reminds me, we have a few hours to get to Minoc before our vessel needs to depart. Whether or not you come, I've already been paid, but I need your decision."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 89):

Fithelos was never a fan of being laughed at, but he was more than used to it by now. He holds up a single hand toward the door and says without enthusiasm, "Lead the way."

Someone has already paid for me? Why?

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 90):

"Good! My song's going to wear off soon, so let's get going."
Feel free to interject if there is anything you want to do.
The three are fairly quiet on the way to the stables where they each grab a horse and tell you to saddle one up. The tiefling leaves well before the rest of you are ready. You ride for about 2.5 hours before you see the glow of Minoc. About that time, you finally catch up to the tiefling.

Orso, "Tasha. Good news?"
Tasha, "The cargo is loaded, guards are on break for 2 more hours."
Orso, "Plenty of time!"
You ride the rest of the way together.
Instead of going straight into town, the crew stays to the south near the water line. From there you can see the town has hit hard times. Buildings are in disrepair, it's roughly 3am, but you hear people working in building nearby that smells of bleaching agents, and the few people you see out have stained hands and clothing from dyes and sealants. There's a trash heap on the edge of town and you're pretty sure you saw a few people scavaging through it. There is a mountain the town butts up against and another group of mountains north of that. It's obvious, the dwarves have managed not being able to mine, but not well.

Orso, without glancing your way, "Don't worry about them mate. We'll be outta here within a hour. The Dwarves can manage themselves."

You continue to the docks where there is a boat a bit smaller than the trading vessels, but also carries its own cannons. Orso asks you to wait on the docks while he inspects the cargo.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 91):

When Orso tells Fithelos not to worry, the Warlock-Monk asks, "What is there to worry about? Is there a threat present I'm unaware of?"

When he tells me to wait by the docks while he inspects the cargo, Fithelos says he doesnt mind coming along to join him. If he insists that I stay, I will do so. However, I will once again use my ability One with the Shadows to vanish from sight while I wait for him to return.

Orso looks back at you, "Most people worry about the dwarves.  They haven't done well since the accidents [his tone makes it seem like he doesn't believe that's what happened].  The dwarves prefer to handle things their own way though. I guess the only 'threat' is the town collapsing, but that's no threat to you."


He is very insistent that you wait.

While hiding, you see Tasha talking to a guard that started to walk up the dock.  She hands him a few copper and he walks away.
After about 15 minutes, Orso returns.  "We're ready.  You will stay on the deck, or in the captain's room.  Everything below the deck is my cargo.  You stay away from it.  We'll be ready to set sail in about 20 minutes.  Have you decided on Jhelom or Yew?"

In reply to Twiz (msg # 93):

"Jhelomm," Fithelos says still pondering the plight of the dwarves. As he heads toward the boat, he asks, "A couple questions for you, Captain. Before boarding your vessel, does whatever you have stashed away below have the capability of sinking the ship and or killing us in our sleep?"

(Once on ship)
"Also, you most likely have assessed by now Im not from these parts. What are these accidents of the dwarves you speak of? Id be most appreciative if you could aid me in not sticking out like a dazed mind-flayer victim every time someone speaks of known history or current affairs."

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 94):


Orso, "Of course.  Why do you think they pay us and not save money and time on the regular trade ships?"  He winks and you and smiles slyly.


"Mind-What?  Anyway, first thing is say you are from Nujel'm and this is your first journey out.  Most people will ignore most of your...awkwardness.  Second, get a robe in Jhelom.  It basically says, 'I'm not rich, but I'm not a beggar.'
As for the dwarves, most people believe they had a series of accidents.  Moradin came down to warn the dwarves the mines were cursed and they had to stop immediately, so they closed the mines and found other ways to create high-quality goods.  They've been working for a century almost to perfect wood, cloth, and leather goods.  They're good, better than anything else, but not as good as the items they smithed.
Anyhow, you don't work in this business without meeting a few nut jobs.  There's a group of dwarves that believe the mines were sealed because of a body-snatching monster.  Now normally I don't get into these conspiracies, but there are two things about dwarves I know."
Krunk interrupts, "Clan first."
Orso, "Exactly. Accidents don't just happen in a dwarven mine.  Most people in Britannia would sell you their mother for the right price, but not dwarves.  Safety of the clan would be worth way more than getting a few extra pounds of ore.  That's why you'll never see a homeless dwarf in Minoc.  No matter what, they take care of each other.  Second..."
Krunk again, "Guards."
Orso, "If Moradin said to close the mines, they could just cave in the entrance.  Instead, for a century, the mines have been sealed with a giant boulder, warding runes, and five guards.  The town is crumbling, but there is always five guards at that entrance."

Tasha walks up and nods to Orso.
Orso smiles, yells toward the guards, "Last call!  If it ain't here, it ain't shipping." Back to you, "We've got about five minutes before they get an all clear from the station ahead."


If nothing else, the all clear will come, you'll be told be stay silent while they pass the last outpost, and then you'll be on your way.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 95):



"Mindflayers. Illithids...Aberrations? Not ringing any bells?" Fithelos shrugs. "This place might not be so bad after all."



Fithelos once again looks down at his albeit worn, but clean clothing. Functionality over style had been his mantra for years. He'd just have to remember to call upon his demonic gifts before heading into town.
In the space of a second, Fithelos changes the appearance of his clothing to resemble the dark red robes of a Thayan Wizard. "I doubt anyone will care about these colors here."

He listens intently as Orso and Krunk talk about the dwarves...perhaps it is something he might look into. Perhaps, after he fulfilled his current request to the Titan. One thing at a time, Fithelos thinks to himself.

He will remain quiet on their way through the outpost. When they are through, he'll find a place to sit down and meditate. He will do so until sunrise (unless anyone wants to talk...hahahaha) and then assist with any basic duties they have on the ship.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:31, Fri 05 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 96):

The first day passes without issue, but the boat stays relatively close to land. It isn't until the end of the day that you travel to the deep ocean.  Throughout the trip, you can faintly hear Orso's music coem from the hold.
As far as basic duties, there isn't much to be done. You can help prepare food with Tasha or find something to scrub, but it's obvious Orso takes pride in his ship and is in great condition.

Around 1am, if you are awake, you'll see Tasha drop down from the crow's nest and sign to Orso, then point straight ahead.  You don't see anything but a dense fog in that direction.
If you were asleep, you'll be startled awake when Krunk picks up a club and all but smashes a gong hanging on the bowsprit.

A few seconds later, you'll hear a reply from another ship. Krunk and Tasha raise a purple flag with a torch on it. You've seen this symbol in Vesper at both Adventurer's shops. The fog begins to clear and you see a giant ship whose flag is a skeleton with a sword through it. The ships sail toward each other. Orso begins playing a dirge song. Roll charisma (DC 13).
When they get close Tasha tosses a rope across and another rope is thrown toward Krunk from the other ship. The ships are pulled to each other. They before they would hit, several men on the opposite ship place soft barriers everywhere they would touch.
The captain's door on the pirate ship opens up. A man that makes Krunk look small steps out.
(see Goliath, page 106 of Volo's Guide).
Does Fithelos know what a Goliath is?
In a deep, scratchy voice, "That's enough Orso." the music immediately stops.
Orso, "Just setting the ambiance." He looks over to Krunk and Tasha, "Gather his supplies." They disappear below deck. Two men bring a chest over from the other ship. When they go to open the chest, the
Captain grunts stopping the men in their tracks. "Who's the new guy?" he asks, nodding at you.
Orso, "Just here on business, like the rest of us. He's on his way to Destard, so he won't be a problem for anyone In few days."
The giant closes his eyes for a moment, as if contemplating his next step, but then opens and nods to the men at the chest. In it is a stack of gold bars. You can see 10 on top and would guess they are stacked about 5 deep.
Orso, walks over to the cargo hatch and taps his foot. The hatch falls open and you hear gears turning. From the hold comes Tasha with 10 large crates. The two pirates with the chest head over to the crates, and pry one open. The Goliath walks over to inspect the goods, you cannot see from your point of view. He reaches in and pulls up a man. The man appears to be in good condition, but sleeping. He's dropped back into the crate, the Goliath nods and several men come from the other ship to get the crates.

Free actions, feel free to interject.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:05, Mon 08 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 97):

13:14, Today: Fithelos rolled 23 using 1d20+4.  Charisma.

Fithelos is familiar with Goliaths--though he has never seen one in person. (In Faerun they are among the 'Races of Stone').



Fithelos maintains a stoic expression at Orso's comment and continues to do so as the men do business. When he sees the large captain pull the sleeping man out of the crate, a single eyebrow rises on his forehead. He limps over to where the captain is inspecting the crates with slight interest. "Have you any children in those crates of yours?"

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 98):



Orso immediately chimes in, "He jests. You know how Jhelomians are." He holds out his arm to you to usher you away with him and speaks quietly to you, "He has no use for children. These are all able-bodied to work the mines near Hythloth. If you upset him, we can all join him, and that would be terrible for business. Besides, this will be an upgrade for these men. No jobs, most homeless... They'll be fed and sheltered and contribute to society."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 99):



"I wasn't jesting," Fithelos says as he's led away. "There aren't any children involved in this trade, is there?" Fithelos will stare at the man, looking for any signs of Deceit.

14:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 19 using 1d20+2. Insight

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 100):





"The big guy would be very unhappy if there were. They are horrible workers." he adds.

You find no signs of deceit in his answer.

The pirates have loaded about half of the crates at this point.

"Look, I got paid to take you away from Vesper, so you couldn't cause problems there. I would appreciate it if you waited until our time is done, before you start."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 101):

Fithelos will shrug. "You're right. It's not my place to get involved," He gives a slight bow of his head. "Forgive my intrusion."

He will then return to where he was sitting and patiently wait.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 102):

The first set of crates are loaded, and a second batch is brought up.  The second set of crates are smaller, but you can see at least 25 of them.  You are able to smell fruits and meats from where you are sitting.  Orso looks over to you and motions toward the crates as if to say, 'See, they are taken care of.', though you can't be certain who the food is for.

Orso walks toward the giant to bid farewell, but the giant grabs him by the shirt and lifts him to eye level.  Tasha and Krunk tense up, but show no signs of intervening.

The giant stares at Orso for a minute, who is terrified at this point, and says in a slow and deliberate voice, "I expect no surprises next time.  Our business should not be mixed with others."

Orso, almost wimpering, "Never again, I swear."

The giant drops Orso to the deck, where he lands with a hard thud.  The pirates untie the boats, remove the boards used to cross, and the ships very slowly start the drift apart.
The giant looks at you, "May you find your fate in Destard."
With that, he steps from vessel to vessel as if the gap were a crack in the floor and walks to his cabin.  As the ship moves away, the dense fog rolls with it.

Krunk takes the chest back below deck. Tasha prepares the ship to sail onward. Orso, ego bruised, smiles at you trying to pretend nothing happened, then returns below the ship to play his music.

Anything before the ship continues it's final leg to Jhelom?

In reply to Twiz (msg # 103):

Fithelos watches the interaction between Orso and the Goliath with some slight irritation. He had allowed his emotions to get the better of him and in doing so, others were put in danger. The former monk made a mental to note to remain silent and invisible the remainder of his journey with these people.

Of course, after he was finished with the Goliath.

First he will attempt to spot if there are any lanterns or dim torches on the vessel sailing away.

Fithelos will walk to the other end of the ship he's on (and try to remain out of sight if possible). Once they are 60 feet from the Goliath's boat, he will whisper the words of a spell near the mast of the Goliath's ship. (His first choice however--if he was able to spot a lantern or torch or any source of light, he will set ablaze a bonfire around it. Preferably where no one is standing--away from the main group.
(But if there is people, then he'll still cast it. His intention is not to have any casualties).

LEVEL
Cantrip
CASTING TIME
1 Action
RANGE/AREA
60 ft (5 ft )
COMPONENTS
V, S
DURATION
Concentration 1 Minute
SCHOOL
Conjuration
DAMAGE/EFFECT
 Fire
You create a bonfire on ground that you can see within range. Until the spell ends, the magic bonfire fills a 5-foot cube. Any creature in the bonfire’s space when you cast the spell must succeed on a Dexterity saving throw or take 1d8 fire damage. A creature must also make the saving throw when it moves into the bonfire’s space for the first time on a turn or ends its turn there.

The bonfire ignites flammable objects in its area that aren’t being worn or carried.


Fithelos will then be the first to say (if heads turn in that direction), "There wasn't anything flammable in those crates, was there? It looks like a (lantern/torch) was knocked loose during the separation of the vessels."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:48, Wed 10 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 104):

While I work this out, why is Fithelos doing this?
Perception check. DC 13
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:38, Wed 10 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 105):

11:05, Today: Fithelos rolled 11 using 1d20+2.  Perception.


The Goliath threatened the captain of the crew he is with. His Warlock side wants to set the entire ship on fire. His Monk side says to let things go, to maintain self-mastery and control. It's an inner struggle thing. Most of the time Fithelos will try to remain Lawful-Neutral. Other times he is tempted with chaotic or evil acts because the Demonic pact makes him thirst for power and to drive fear into those around him.

I'll take it back though if it jacks with the game. I'm not purposely trying to throw a wrench in any story or plans. I just figured something like a threat might trigger Fithelos to lose control. While he isn't doing anything violent, he still wants to unleash some kind of power on those who might threaten him.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 106):

Do your thing. Your thought process is important for some things.
Also, I'm dropping the DC check because of your night vision.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:32, Wed 10 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 103):

Fithelos will cast his spell at the base of the mast closer to the crates. (One, Five-foot square of area effected).
This message was last edited by the player at 18:10, Wed 10 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 108):

You see the flames kick up, just under the sail, not quite. Lose enough to catch it, but it soon will if the flames aren't dealt with. Two men yell fire, and everyone on deck jumps into action. The crew is obviously well trained.
The captain steps out, stands facing the fire for a second. Then walks to the helm and stares at your ship. From this distance, you cannot tell if he sees you or is just looking at the ship itself.
The ship fades into the fog.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:49, Wed 10 Apr 2019.

It's just before day break, about 8 hours before you should arrive in Jhelom. Orso is playing a pan flute (for once you don't feel like he is trying to captivate you with it).  Krunk is below deck.  Tasha is going back and forth between steering the ship, and scouting ahead.  Suddenly, you see Tasha grab two daggers from her bag and throw them at Orso. In the air, they begin to separate and you see they are tied together.  Instead of hitting Orso, the string snatches his pan flute from his mouth.  The daggers silently embed themselves into a bag of corn, causing it to spill.  Orso looks at you and signals for silence.  He then goes to the hatch and whispers something to Krunk.
Tasha retrieves her daggers and the pan flute, and begins signaling to Orso.  After a moment, he comes to you and whispers, "Lad, it's about to rough.  You might not have signed up for a fight, but I know you have it in you with the way you caught Tasha's dagger.  We have some Sahuagin heading toward us, and Tasha's pretty sure there's a Baron with them.  Now they don't know we've spotted them, so we should have the upper hand.  Tasha's going to stay on the deck. We're going to spring up from my quarters when she gives the signal.  Krunk will stay below to try to catch the Baron when he gets too close to the hold.  You with me?"

In reply to Twiz (msg # 110):

Fithelos will scratch his chin as he ponders Orso's words.

OOC: Man I'd really like to have access to lvl 14 Warlock abilities right about now...

"Traps are smart. Tis the best way to fight, in my honest opinion." He'll start to head below and then stop. "Actually...would it be alright if I accompanied the Tiefling? I've grown rather fond of how much she doesn't talk." He smiles. "Besides, as long as I remain still and it's still dark out, they won't see me."

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 111):

He looks at you for a second, smiles large "Your funeral mate. Best to plan yourself." You get the feeling he's not expecting anybody will do well against the Sahuagin.
Orso ducks into his chambers. Tasha does not look back, so she does not know you are staying with her. She holds up five fingers, then head Orso from the door say, "She spots 5, but there will probably be one or two flanking. They like to jump on board and yell their battle cry before the fight. Tasha will drop a dagger on the ground when she believes they've all showed themselves. If any get away, we'll have 20 more within an hour, so don't do anything to scare one hiding away."
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:14, Thu 11 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 112):

"My funeral...well which is it then? Do you think I can handle myself in a fight or not?" Fithelos shakes his head. "If worse comes to worse, I'll lead them away from your ship and you'll be rid of me for good. Worry not, I'll behave myself and won't do anything to endanger your crew."

As it is just before daybreak and still dark I am guessing? Fithelos will walk to within 5 feet of the Tiefling and use 'One with Shadows' to vanish from sight. From there he will remain silent and still as he watches the events unfold.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 113):


"Having fought in you, and backing yourself in a fight aren't always the same."

it's not midnight dark, but it's dim and there are shadows all about. You're good to vanish.
Were you being sneaky or did she hear you walk up?  If she heard you, she watches you basically fade from view.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 114):

Fithelos won't mask his footsteps as goes to accompany Tasha.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 115):

The boat, is setup basically the same as the pirate ship, but no cannons on the deck.  You and Tasha are at the helm. About 2 minutes after you vanish, you see a trident pierce the air and come inches from Tasha's head. She would've been hit if not for her quick movement. A Sahuagin Priestess (SP), a Baron (SB), and 3 fighters (SF) climb up to the deck.
SP is on by the helm with the SB between her and Tasha. The three SF stand on the main deck, one blocking the stairs does, the other two are close to Orso's quarters.


Roll Initiative.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:46, Thu 11 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 116):

12:06, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  Initiative.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 117):

Krunk
Baron
Tasha
Priestess
Fithelos
SF
Orso

All of Sahuagin yell.
Tasha, acts terrified by throwing her arm over her face to protect it, throwing a dagger backwards toward the SF near the stairs. It misses, but the SF is thrown off by the surprise. The others don't appear to notice what happened. You notice Tasha has still not made a sound.
Tasha's skin glows for a moment as if a spell was cast on her.
The SP casts a spell while laying hands on the SB.
The SB jabs his trident at Tasha, but her quick movements make him stumble forward. He takes a bite at her but misses when she leans to his left, which allows him to what should be a deep scratch at her side. His claws tear through the armor, but don't appear to damage her skin.
The two SF in the back are messing with Orso's door, but are unable to get it open.

Fithelos's turn.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 118):

The Monk will rush the Priestess (should be able to get there with 55ft speed) and unleash a barrage of rapid punches and kicks.

13:10, Today: Fithelos rolled 15 using 1d20+8.  Unarmed Strike.
-Expend 1 ki point, Flurry of Blows as Bonus Action-
13:10, Today: Fithelos rolled 28 using 1d20+8.  Flurry of Blows (First Strike). *Critical*
13:10, Today: Fithelos rolled 23 using 1d20+8.  Unarmed Strike. (Second Strike)

13:12, Today: Fithelos rolled 16 using 1d20+8.  Second Attack, Unarmed Strike.

13:14, Today: Fithelos rolled 38 using 5d6+20.  Damage.

Fithelos will use his Open Hand Technique with his Flurry of Blows:
Whenever you hit with one of your Flurry of Blows attacks, you can impose (one of) the following effects on that target: fall prone if it fails a DEX saving throw (DC 14).
(2 Dex Saves at DC 14)

(This is of course assuming they all hit)

Fithelos runs in low and rises up to drive his elbow into the Priestess' chin. When her head jerks up from the attack, he follows up with two blinding knife hands to her stomach and finishes by kicking her legs out from beneath her.

Pain flares to life in his right leg, causing him to stumble a bit--he quickly readjusts his balance by redistributing his weight to the other leg and remains on his feet.

He didn't want to call upon his cursed demonic powers, but knew he might not have any other options...
This message was last edited by the player at 18:35, Thu 11 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 119):

Are the 5d6 for all blows. Her DC was 12...

The SP's lifeless body falls with a thud. From the side of the boat you hear a loud trumpet sound, and another Sahuagin climbing up the side. Tasha looks over at you, mouth gaping, eyes wide, but not in astonishment, but as if you had just doomed her.

The two SF in the back leave the captain's chamber and start heading to the helm.
The deck suddenly is covered in grease causing both to fall to the floor.
SB takes advantage of Tasha's lapse in attention, grabs her to pick her up, but she slides out of his hands. Tasha disengages, dropping a glowing dagger on the ground.
Orso bursts through the door and begins playing a fiddle. It's screeches as SB and the SF still on his feet near the stairs begin to glow softly advantage on attacks against them.


Fithelos turn.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 120):

It was 1d6+4 for each strike, plus one additional for the critical roll.

Fithelos will first use his bonus action to cast Hex on the Sanhuagin Baron...
(You place a curse on a creature that you can see within range. Until the spell ends, you deal an extra 1d6 necrotic damage to the target whenever you hit it with an attack. Also, choose one ability when you cast the spell. The target has disadvantage on ability checks made with the chosen ability. SB will have Disadvantage on *DEX*

If the target drops to 0 hit points before this spell ends, you can use a bonus action on a subsequent turn of yours to curse a new creature.

Fithelos mutters an incantation under his breath and his hands ignite in demonic flames. Extending his arms in front of him, he unleashes a twisting, spear-like lance of fire toward the Barron. (29 damage total)

16:38, Today: Fithelos rolled 19 using 1d20+8.  Firebolt.
16:38, Today: Fithelos rolled 28 using 1d20+8.  Firebolt. *Critical/Advantage

16:46, Today: Fithelos rolled 2 using 1d6.  Necrotic Damage.
16:45, Today: Fithelos rolled 27 using 6d10.  Firebolt Damage.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 121):




Are you not considered level 5 for this spell?  Does your monk level add to this?  That would be 4d10.  Please verify.  Keep the roll though.  27 would be a reasonable roll for 4d10.

SB yells in pain as your Fire Bolt rips through his lower right shoulder.  You watch his arm fall to the deck, as he reaches with his lower left hand to feel the hole you created.

SF on the stairs throws his trident at you and then lunges forward to take a bite out of you.
The trident gets a glancing blow, but you feign lost balance.  As soon as he comes in for a bite, you bring your knee up crushing his lower jaw.  Some of his teeth hit the ground before he does.
Roll critical unarmed strike.

17:40, Today: Twiz, for the NPC SF1, rolled 20 using 2d20+3 with rolls of 16,1.  Trident then bite Fithelos.
17:52, Today: Twiz, for the NPC SF1, rolled 4 using 1d6+1 with rolls of 3.
Take 4 damage.

Orso begins playing a new song, forgetting that you have a chance of being captivated as well.  Your HP will completely protect you, so no rolls.
18:04, Today: Twiz, for the NPC Orso, rolled 59 using 11d8 with rolls of 6,6,3,4,7,8,4,6,1,7, 7.
As if it were even necessary after breaking his jaw, SF1 is now unconcious.  From the edge of the boat, you hear a splash in the water.  Whatever was climbing up, has fallen.

Krunk appears on the deck now, runs to Tasha, touches her and casts a spell.

SB looks around, realizing the situation is lost, and leaps backward off the boat.

Tasha pulls two large metal daggers out of a bag and launches them at SF2.  Both catch him in the thigh.

SF3 is finally getting to his feet, but is obviously having a hard time standing.  He moves toward the side of the ship.  SF2 tries to get up, but falls, unable to balance in the grease with his leg wound. Advantage on attacks on both.

I was going off the character sheet--which I think may have mixed some numbers up when it was processed. I thought, "Wow, 3d10??? For a cantrip no less!" Because my Eldritch Blase was only 1d10--which I thought was low for being 5th level.

I have since made adjustments. But you are right. Should have only been 4d10 on a crit. But yeah, I rolled 6d10 and got 27 out of it. Really crappy roll for a possibility of 60.

07:52, Today: Fithelos rolled 15 using 2d6+4.  Critical Unarmed Strike.

Fithelos ignores the two fighters. He isn't letting the Baron go. Sprinting full speed to where the leader of the Sanhuagin went, he leaps over the side of the boat and peers through the dark waters to find his foe. (And Fithelos is only attempting this because he can see in the dark and his foe is missing an arm and may have trouble swimming like he normally does--allowing the monk-lock to possibly catch up)

Depending on how far away the Baron is, Fithelos will expend a ki point to use DASH as a bonus action. If he is able to catch up to him, he will use knife-hand strikes to hit him underwater. (Not as much resistance as an unarmed strike)

Does he get disadvantage for not having an arm?

08:02, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+8.  First Unarmed Strike.
08:04, Today: Fithelos rolled 26 using 1d20+8.  First Unarmed Strike (with advantage?).

08:02, Today: Fithelos rolled 10 using 1d20+8.  Second Unarmed Strike.
08:04, Today: Fithelos rolled 16 using 1d20+8.  Second Unarmed Strike (with advantage?).
This message was last edited by the player at 13:09, Fri 12 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 123):


A dagger hits the rail in front of you and Orso yells, "Leave him! It's too late!"

Do you ignore them or stop?
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:56, Fri 12 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 124):

Fithelos ignores Orso and pursues the Baron.

As you leap over the side of the boat, you see the baron has grabbed onto a shark for a speedy get-away, and another shark is blocking your path.


You may dodge the shark in your path and use all of your movement to catch up to the baron.  At that point, you will be within 5' of him and the shark.  You will still have a reaction available.  It will be the baron's and his "water-scooter's" turn. The first shark will be able to catch up to you as well, but not have any actions left.
OR
You may attack the shark in your way, but the Baron will surely be too far gone at that point.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:29, Sat 13 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 138):

Fithelos is still going after the Barron. Dodge the shark.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:29, Sat 13 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 139):

You ignore the first shark and dive past. Not expecting the your speed in the water, the shark barely misses taking a bite out of you. You manage to barely catch up with SB and his shark.

Hearing you coming up behind, SB swings his trident at you.
11:11, Today: Twiz, for the NPC Baron, rolled 19 using 1d20+7 ((12)).
11:13, Today: Twiz, for the NPC Trident Attack, 1 handed, rolled 11 using 2d6+4.
Take 11 piercing damage.
The shark continues to swim.
Attack of opportunity, with disadvantage.
The shark you dodged behind following you.

Chase and underwater combat in the DMG now apply.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 140):

12:13, Today: Fithelos rolled 10 using 1d20+8.  Attack of Opportunity with Disadvantage.

Fithelos swims to the Sanhuagin Baron and strikes at his neck and face area.

12:23, Today: Fithelos rolled 10 using 1d20+8.  First Unarmed Strike.
12:23, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+8.  Second Unarmed Strike.

He will then expend 1 ki point to unleash a Flurry of Blows for his bonus action.

12:24, Today: Fithelos rolled 23 using 1d20+8.  Flurry of Blows Strike 1.
12:24, Today: Fithelos rolled 13 using 1d20+8.  Flurry of Blows Strike 2.

I'm not sure what hits, (but I'll assume 20 and above does)

12:29, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 3d6+8.  Bludgeoning and Necrotic Damage.

And he will need to make 2 Str Saves DC 14. (Way of the Opened Hand) or be pushed back 15 feet.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 17:35, Mon 15 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 141):

Okay, this one is my completely fault.  Part of the DM learning experience.  I was trying to not give too much away, but in the process, I gave way too little.

Basically, he swings at you, you swing at him, but the shark he's holding onto never stops moving.  In fact, you should not have been able to get off that round of hits.  You have the same speed as each other when he dashes and you double dash, so each round the same thing will happen, EXCEPT you weren't supposed to get an attack of opportunity (my fault).

You catch, he swings (should be multi-attack, but I figured since his ride doesn't stop moving, he's only going to get one off), shark keeps swimming.
Fithelos would've been able to figure out there speed after the first time he caught up with them.  In fact, the only reason he catches up is because combat never stopped and standard combat doesn't lend itself well to a chase.  That's why I implemented chase rules, though I should have explained what I meant.

You are at a huge disadvantage in this, but a level 11, I think Fithelos would realize that.
Chase rules say you get 4 Dashes and he gets 5, before you have a chance for exhaustion to set in.  You have to use 2 dashes per round, so on the third round, he is out of there.

Also, I misread the attacks, because you aren't supposed to get an attack of opportunity during a chase.  The Baron, however, is technically just holding on to the shark, so if you are close enough, he will have a chance to swing, but you shouldn't get another attack.

Underwater fighting also means you take disadvantage on every swing, while the murder mermaid just swings away haphazardly and still has a pretty good chance of landing a shot.

Lastly, I want to say, I didn't mean to make this impossible.  I've just read a lot about them, set up the scenario, and already had everything in place.   I honestly thought someone was going to be thrown overboard and have to fight the sharks.  When you ripped off the Baron's arm, he said, "Screw this, I'm out!" and told one of the sharks to carry him to safety.  I didn't realize the blood-thirsty Fithelos would even attempt and underwater fight, which is why I threw out the part will Orso says to forget about him.

So here's my offer (and I'm willing to compromise more, because again, totally my fault):
The rolls you made will be your Attack of Opportunity.  You just mess this guy up pretty bad, but realize the shark gives him a huge advantage and there's another shark heading your way.  Also, his body was designed to breathe through water and to go back and forth between the pressures of the deep ocean and the sky, yours was not.  At some point, you just can't keep following him.  You keep your ki point.

OR

You can keep pursuing, and may the dice gods smile upon you.



I wasn't sure how you'd feel about this, so I am also adding this chance to meta.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
The fight is not over.  Reinforcements in less than 15 minutes.

---

In reply to Twiz (msg # 142):

Bloodthirsty? hahahahha...he's just finishing what he started.

Hmm. Dammit. I hate it when guys get away. Really, really hate it. I figured with one missing arm--he can either hold on to the shark or use his Trident--and that if he let go, I'd have him. I also thought, "If he throws that trident at me, I'm going to hurl it right back at him."

Fithelos will grind his teeth together in frustration.

Instead of the Sanhuagin, he wants to attack the shark the Sanhuagin Baron is riding. He will take hold of the hourglass and hope these Titans will hear his thoughts. Make this water no hindrance unto me...even if only for a moment,

If he can, he'll hit the shark with a strike and use his ki to make it a stunning strike.

(Waiting to see if he can roll normally for a round or something? If not, I'll roll at a disadvantage, that is...if I can even hit him.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:16, Tue 16 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 143):

Here's where it gets weird.

As you break the hourglass, you see the sand turn white with more sand pouring out than it could possibly contain. The sand starts to swirl around you, and cover you. You see you hands begin to take the shape of Balance's. Your arms, legs, and torso all are surrounded by the white sand. Finally your head is covered, including your eyes and mouth.
A calm washes over you. You no longer feel the need to kill the Baron.

Based on your request, you are now encompassed by the sands of Balance. You cannot take any action Balance himself would not take. Even after the effects wear off, you feel all actions taken were right, and cannot take any course of action to undo them. If any one questions your choices, you must justify them.


Titan of Balance
Balance does not believe the immortals should interfere with mortal's lives. Because of this, he will not kill a mortal unless it is the only way to prevent a major disruption by an immortal.


Stats unknown. 10 actions per round.

Negate: Any incoming damage or spell is completely negated. Visually, this is done by placing the staff in the way of the damage.
Spells are dispelled, physical attacks are stopped, psychic attacks are blocked, etc.  Used as a reaction any number of times per round.
Negate is not an optional reaction and must be used to prevent damage to ALL living things within view.

Time Stop: As the spell
1d4+1 becomes 1d10+4.
From https://www.dndbeyond.com/spel...ter-search=time+stop

Sleep: As the spell cast as a 9th level spell
5d8 becomes 21d8 + 10
20' becomes 60'.
From https://www.dndbeyond.com/spel...;filter-search=sleep

Full Counter: Any incoming damage is reflected, in full.  Can be taken as an action or unprepared reaction. Can only be used once per summon.
Elemental spells are reflected as opposing elemental damage.
Can ONLY be used against immortals, or to prevent an immortal's conquest.


PASSIVE:

Detect Magic: As the spell
30' becomes 100'
From https://www.dndbeyond.com/spel...-search=detect+magic

Find Traps: As the spell
From https://www.dndbeyond.com/spel...;filter-search=traps

In reply to Twiz (msg # 144):

Well...since he's lost the desire to stop the Sanhuagin leader and can't attack, he'll float in the water and watch the Baron escape to bring back reinforcements.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 145):

Reminder, you have 1 minute as Balance.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 146):

Okay. I wanted to go after the Baron, but that is no longer an option. I actually can't think of anything I'd want to do with these powers...I mean, if I was surrounded by numerous enemies that would be one thing, but a couple sharks and a fleeing Sanhuagin--none of which I can attack?

I'll wait and see what they do.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 147):
To be honest, I'm not sure either. The Titan you get is based on your request though, and he was by far the best match. Who comes when, is supposed to be a mystery to Fithelos, otherwise he can manipulate their test. That said, if Fithelos figures it out, that's their problem.
So let's say Fithelos is suddenly super strong, super fast, and basically invulnerable with his negate. You dont fight, but do prevent other fights. You know backup is coming, though not sure how log it will take. You also have a ship with 2 SF, Orso, Tasha, and Krunk on it. A third Sahuagin that you never saw (fell asleep because of Orso), and a shark that will try to chomp you this round.
Lastly, as a Titan, you have some freedom of what is possible compared to a normal character. Let's say you want to push the boat. Well, dude basically floats around and is super strong, I'll allow it. You want to create a whirlpool by spinning fast, as long as it doesn't kill anything (as Balance anyway), go for it. You want to grab the shark and fling him a few thousand feet away, why the hell not?


While contemplating what to do next, you sense the shark is closing in from above.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:43, Wed 17 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 148):

Huh.
So I was thinking the Titan might give me Freedom (or as it was formally called, Freedom of Movement) for like...2 rounds. So...you are kind of giving me the option to literally do something cool--so long as it is within the boundaries of Balance's code?


That changes everything. Cue the music.
https://youtu.be/yPHeW7MLBbw?t=18

After the sands swirl around Fithelos to transform him into what appears to be a titan--
his original self feels somewhat restored. He welcomes the part of himself who desires to protect his comrades over the need to fill his enemy's hearts with fear.

The waters begin to swirl around him--and in moments an underwater cyclone makes it difficult for even the sharks to swim. Looking up, Fithelos--armored with the Titan's likeness--shoots straight up toward the sky, white foam and bubbles flowing from his wake.

The swirling water follows him to the surface and explodes outward in massive waves. Spotting the boat in the distance, Balance-Fithelos sets off like a bolt of lightning inches above the surface of the sea, creating a small canyon underneath and behind them as they race back toward Orso and his crew.

Making a wide circle around the vessel, Fithelos will come up on the stern and press his hands up against the ship. After taking a deep breath he'll call out to the crew,
"GET READY!!!"
Using the strength granted to him by the Titan of Balance, he pushes with all his strength to launch the ship forward into the direction the captain steers, hopefully giving them a head start from the reinforcements.

Looking behind--if he sees that the Sanhuagin will eventually catch them with their underwater speeds, he will change tactics.

As he feels the power of Balance fading, Fithelos will allow the ship to drift and ascend skyward. From the air--he'll outstretch his arms and call upon the powers of nature. Dark clouds roll in and swirl around his being, lightning flashes followed by angry thunder.
The air becomes biting and frigid. Bringing his hands together in front of him, a shock wave of power erupts all around him. The forward blast radius ripples out for hundreds of miles; turning the water to ice everywhere it touches behind the boat.

Fithelos will then release his temporary powers of Balance and return to the ship.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:38, Tue 23 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 149):

You won't get a full answer today, but roll 3d100.
1. I don't know my own strength.
2. Tasha wasn't ready.
3. It got a little too cold.
Anything in the 50s is a hit.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:07, Thu 18 Apr 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 150):


08:57, Today: Fithelos rolled 99 using 1d100.

08:57, Today: Fithelos rolled 40 using 1d100.

08:57, Today: Fithelos rolled 82 using 1d100.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 149):

Okay, I liked it, but the "hundreds of miles" was a little much.




When you first start to push, you feel the wood start to give under the pressure.  Your strength is more than you imagined, but are wise enough to back off and ease into the push.
Even so, the acceleration is too much for Orso, Krunk, and Tasha, and they slip as the boat lurches forward.  Krunk and Orso quickly grab onto different parts of the boat, but Tasha is not so lucky.  As you see her fly through the air, you are about to stop to catch her, but see Krunk's hand reach out and grab her.
The sails being down begin to tear from the strong winds pushing back against you.  Your keen senses allow you to see the tears when they are tiny, allowing you to ease up a little more.



Not realizing how far you've actually traveled, you turn the top layer of the sea to ice for several miles to prevent the Sahuagin from catching up, but at this point they have completely lost track of the boat.



As you release the powers of the Balance, the sands begin changing back to the purple and gold they were when you first received it.  The sands themselves reform the hourglass, and once the last speck of sand has left you, the hourglass becomes whole and returns to your hand.

Since the sun is up, Tasha is having a hard time determining exactly where they are.  According to Orso, her best guess is what should have been another 8 hours, is now 2 or 3.
There is a lot of tension the air.  Orso heads down to play a song or two below deck, Krunk stands at the helm, waiting for signals from Tasha, and they all glance your way on occasion with a look like they aren't very happy to have you on board.

Free actions.  If none, the boat will soon dock on the south island of Jhelom.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 152):



He'll hold his hands out and ask,

"What?"


If they have nothing to say, Fithelos will meditate until they reach Jhelom.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 153):


Tasha shakes her head and grabs Krunk to get back to work.
Orso however, walks up to you, "Listen mate, I don't what crazy stuff you're trying to do here, and I don't care, but you put our lives and our ship at risk. You were told to wait for Tasha's signal. Because of your hot headedness, these damn murder mermaids are going to keep an eye out for this ship for quite some time, now that you done pissed them off. You might be able to handle a battalion of them by turning into some angel of death, but we can barely handle a scouting squad. We'll have to get new routes, which are hard enough to come by between the guards and the Sahuagin."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 154):

Fithelos considers Orso's words. "When you agreed to transport a complete stranger without knowing anything about him, one would think this isn't entirely my fault.
With that being said, you are right. I did act irrationally. In my experience, to let even one enemy escape is to guarantee death. I could say I haven't been the same since what happened to me in the Underdark, that I no longer possess the control I once did...but it doesn't matter. Regardless of what happened, it doesn't excuse my actions."

Fithelos sighs, angry with himself. "Tell me Captain; what would you normally do to someone who put the lives of your crew in danger as I have? Throw me overboard? Execution? Death by fire?" He stands straight, clasping his hands behind his back and then looks around at the various gazes. "What does your crew wish to do with me?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:38, Tue 23 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 155):

"We would love to get you to Jhelom. You, as with anything we've been paid to deliver, are cargo. My customers would not be happy if I threw their deliveries overboard or set it on fire. Just, consider others before you act next time. And in the future, I'll make sure allove cargo sleeps through the journey."

In reply to Twiz (msg # 156):



"Ah yes. Like the men in the crates given to the Goliath." Something inside Fithelos stirs, wanting for blood. He grits his teeth and forces the urge to be silent. "I was considering the lives of your crew Orso. It was just very poorly executed."

"You didn't answer my question though. What does your crew desire? Do they not have a say?" Fithelos says without emotion. "And if I never arrived to my destination, who would know? Who would care? I am a stranger here. I have no one waiting for me. No friends or family looking to the day of my return. If you were to dispose of me, there is none who would question it. Am I truly worth it?"

If he doesn't reply, Fithelos will then find somewhere he will be free of the stares of the crew--whether it be below deck, the bow or the stern--and remain silent the remainder of their journey.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:22, Tue 23 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 157):

While in meditation, a thought crosses Fithelos' mind. He was referred to as cargo...and at first, he didn't think it meant anything--that it was just a term the captain used for everyone not part of his crew.

The captain and his crew cared about delivering him to someone.

He was right not to trust the Drow. No doubt the dark elf and his mate set up on the edge of town to ensnare unknowing travelers and adventurers. Offering them aid when their true motives were far more sinister.
Damn these thoughts! Fithelos says to himself. Never did I think I'd miss the Paladin and his ability to sniff out evil!

Should he confront Orso? No, the man would simply feed him some lie. Yet he needed to know what their intentions were.

Fithelos will go look for Tasha, Krunk or Orso.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 157 & 158):


"Just because you don't like it, doesn't mean it's the wrong thing to do.  Before I came along, everyone was fair game.  We only deal in people that cause problems elsewhere and are up for the jobs.  It's a necessary evil."


"I did.  We want to deliver you, so we can be done with you.  Nothing more, nothing less.  Whatever you think of us and what we do, we take pride in our work.  We were paid for a delivery, a delivery is what we're going to do."



Tasha and Krunk are at the helm.  You can hear Orso's music below deck.

Fithelos will approach Tasha and Krunk.

"Are either of you able to answer questions, or do you need permission to speak to me?"

He'll wait for them to answer, though he feels it is highly unlikely anyone will speak to him at this point. So he'll ask anyway.

"Orso said you were paid for a delivery. How does your employer make a profit transporting -near-copperless beggars such as myself?
If you are so eager to get rid of me, you can do so by slitting my throat and tossing me overboard. There is no reason to keep me around if you've already been paid in full, yet I am of the belief you need to deliver me to someone in order to get a full payment; alive and probably not too injured.
Again I will say, no one is expecting me anywhere. Unless you've made some kind of arrangement with someone in this city we are headed too, no one will know if I am dead."

The monk-warlock will keep an eye on where their hands are in relation to their weapons.

"My apologies, but I simply can't believe anyone would do anything out of the kindness of their hearts or because it's the honorable thing to do in this realm."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:57, Wed 24 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 160):



They both just look at you, waiting for you to continue.



Tasha closes her eyes, shakes her head, and walks away.

Krunk looks at you and says, "We no kill people. We deliver cargo." Common is obviously not his first language. "You just drop-off. After that, not our problem."



Krunk doesn't have any weapons.

Krunk responds, "Paid up front for delivery. Only being awake is Orso kindness. Bad choice."

Is there land in sight from the current location?

If so, Fithelos will leap overboard and head toward it.
If not, he'll wait until land is in sight and then leap overboard and head toward it.
If he knows what direction the mainland is in, he'll leap overboard and head toward it.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:42, Wed 24 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 162):

You're not quite in view of land yet, but will be soon.
If you look at your map, you can see there is land in pretty much any direction you swim.

Have you been paying attention at all to the boat?  It hasn't changed course much in the last few hours of actual sailing time, BUT boats don't always sail directly toward their destination because of currents and wind.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 163):

Sorry I didn't post. Kept getting a 404 error every time I tried to log in yesterday.

I would say as suspicious as he is--Fithelos would definitely take note of the direction they were headed in.

"If that is the case, I will take my leave now. Farewell. And for the sake of this crew, may we never meet again."

The former monk will leap into the water and start swimming toward the mainland.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:36, Mon 29 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 164):

SOOOO.... I waited all day for you to respond and realized I never posted.  I have a tendency to hit 'Post' but forget to select a character to post as, so it doesn't go through.

Do you have anything that's going to help you swim for a stupid amount of time or do you have something hidden up your sleeve?

After leaping overboard, if you look back, you'll see the three gather together and stare for a moment.  Tasha and Krunk will look at Orso, who will shrug and walk away.  With that, Tasha gets back to the helm.  Krunk stares for a moment longer, then heads below deck with Orso.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 165):

Fithelos will swim as far as he can and stop before becoming exhausted. He will cast fly on himself and fly as far as he can for 10 minutes. Once that spell is depleted he will cast Gaseous Form on himself--and travel for another hour. By this time, I imagine he would have regained some of his energy and if he still hasn't made it to land he'll continue to swim at a slow pace.

Oh and if I am more unresponsive than usual--I broke my phone almost two weeks ago. Well. I was going to go get an MRI or PET scan? and when I got out of my car at the hospital, it fell 2 feet and the screen no longer comes on. Anyhow. I don't know when I'll be getting another one.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:52, Tue 30 Apr 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 166):

We'll you gave me a lot of homework on that, so give me a bit to respond. Until then, who is your carrier? I have a few phones sitting at home doing nothing.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 167):

MetroPCS.
They use T-Mobile's towers.

I'm okay on waiting for a phone. It's funny because some of my family say stuff like, "How are we supposed to get a hold of you??"
Hmm. I suppose if you want to talk...I guess you can't.

Darn.:)
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 17:16, Wed 01 May 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 167):

Alright. Does Fithelos die or do I make it to the mainland?

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 169):

Sorry, I've been in a funk lately. I'll update this evening.

A funk. Me too. I actually checked here to get my mind off it. Sara and I decided to look at homes. Had lots of people tell us we'd be fine even with the bankruptcy we filed last year (due to medical bills).

So we found a house we both were interested in, and they said, "Alright, so because of your bankruptcy you'll need to put 45% down. Are you guys planning to pay that in cash or check?"

I laughed so hard I couldn't stop for a full minute.
"You want 65 grand up front???".
I kept laughing all the way to the car.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 166):

What normal person has 45% to put down?  They probably should've talked about that up front...
my problem has been work.  The incompetence above me hurts.

Weirdly enough, not taking into consideration exhaustion, the need to rest, or encounters, you are the same speed as the boat on average.  Nothing else considered, you will take approximately 1 day to reach the mainland.  I'm also assuming you will have enough spell slots to cast Fly and Gaseous Form plenty of times to make it to the mainland.  I don't honestly care if you do or not.  We're just going to assume that and you eat up 3 slots from Gas and 2 slots from fly.  If you do not have enough slots, just drop those slots to 0 and move on with life, you get to use the spells anyway.

BUT... I can't make it that easy.  Going for a walk through the water, you had up to 3 encounters.  You have an 87% chance of swimming, a 11% chance of being gaseous, and a 2% chance of Flying. Before each encounter, roll a d100 to see what form you were in (1-87, 88-98, 99-100).
Encounter 1: 2 water elementals (hostile toward you)
Encounter 2: 5 dolphins (neutral toward you)
Encounter 3: 1 Sea serpent snake (hostile toward you)

If you are in Gaseous form when an encounter would start, you may choose if the encounter happens.

If you are flying when encounter 1 would start, the encounter will start, though you will have advantage to flee and not be susceptible to opportunity attacks.
You will most likely suffer 1 level exhaustion if you fight the water elementals.

If you are flying when encounters 2 or 3 would start, you may choose if the encounter happens.
Your interaction with the dolphin may or may not affect your level of exhaustion by ±1 level.
You will most likely suffer 1 level exhaustion if you fight the sea serpent snake.

If you are swimming when any encounter would start, the encounter happens.

At the end of the day (the next morning actually) when you reach land, if you decide to keep marching, you will take a level of exhaustion immediately.

Please roll the first encounter to determine if it starts.  Only if it does not start, move on to the next.


If you've already read through this, read it again.  Some of it didn't make sense.  I was rushing.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:52, Thu 16 May 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 172):

07:30, Today: Fithelos rolled 96 using 1d100.  Encounter Chance. - Gaseous w/Water Elementals
07:31, Today: Fithelos rolled 12 using 1d100.  Encounter Chance. - Swimming w/Dolphins
07:31, Today: Fithelos rolled 25 using 1d100.  Encounter Chance. - Swimming w/Sea Serpent snake

Fithelos will continue on his way/retreat/flee with the Water Elementals and Dolphins.
Fithelos would like to disengage and/or dodge in attempts to flee from the Sea Serpent snake to get to land. And if he can't do so--I roll initiative:

07:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 17 using 1d20+4.  Initiative.




On a side note--I could send you the openings when they happen over here. I mean, I know you are working at the FAA for the pay--but these guys might be able to match it.
I will say in my time being here, the environment and people are better than anywhere I've been. (Aside from when I was working with you, Christian and Stephen. But alas, all good things must come to end.)

Granted, it is in Norman. Which is...a monstrosity of a drive for you. But, I can guarantee the environment is better. People here are far, far more competent. And not nearly as uptight. There isn't a division between Federal and Contractor status. If the FAA offered me a job for twice the pay, I would stay here.

I know it's not much of an offer, but I know what it's like to work with people I want to throw...people I find incompetent. Wyckoff. But I know when positions open up because guess who's in charge of the in/out processing? THIS GUY.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:51, Thu 16 May 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 173):

You're swimming when the dolphins see you, the encounter begins. If you want to ignore them, they will swim near you for about 20 minutes, before getting bored and finding something else to do.

I'm always willing to consider a better opportunity.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 174):

Fithelos has no interest in the dolphins as he has always found them both smug and condescending.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 175):

The dolphins start to swim away, but one turns around and squeaks and clicks at you. Though you've never tried to understand dolphins or their language, you get the The distinct impression he was saying goodbye and thanking you for all the fish.


You'll have to give me a moment. Sea serpents in DnD are a lot bigger than in Ultima. It's a bit more than I meant to throw at you. Also, I got your speed wrong, but I don't care enough to change anything.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:50, Thu 16 May 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 176):

I want a Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.

Fithelos has zero desire to take on a Sea Serpent snake in its home environment. If possible, he will use all his actions and movement to flee (using disengage/dodge when necessary).
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:50, Thu 16 May 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 177):

Ultima Online, http://www.andrea.net/uo/gener...atsienna_serpent.jpg
DnD, https://www.dandwiki.com/w/ima...Serpent_Sapphire.jpg

DnD Poisonous "Water" Snake, http://www.orcpub.com/dungeons...ters/poisonous-snake

The snake is a master of stealth.  Roll perception/nature/survival (DC 16).
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:48, Fri 17 May 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 178):

08:05, Today: Fithelos rolled 5 using 1d20-1.  Nature.
08:05, Today: Fithelos rolled 23 using 1d20+3.  Survival.
08:05, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 179):

My bad, I meant roll whichever you prefer.  I'm assuming that preference is Survival in this case...

While swimming, now barely within view of land, you notice ripples in the water moving toward you.  Given the patterns, you can tell it is longer like an eel or, now that you are close enough to land, a snake.  You have 5 rounds before it reaches you, but it is moving through the water faster than you could swim.

Centering himself, Fithelos will take a deep breath and remain still.
He will then use his ability once under the water to use 'One with Shadows'
(When you are in an area of dim light or darkness, you can use your action to become invisible until you move or take an action or a reaction.)

Fithelos can hold his breath for up to 2 minutes, or 20 rounds.
He knows the serpent can probably still smell him, but he is hoping vanishing from sight might give him some kind of advantage. (Not an actual advantage, maybe prevent the monster from having advantage since they're underwater).

Fithelos will expend a ki point to dodge as a bonus action<--which actually he may not do. He wants to stay invisible and dodge if attacked. One with Shadows says you are invisible until you move (which he is remaining still, though sinking), take an action or reaction. Does this include Bonus action? Because if it was all actions, I would think the wording would be, "until you move or take an action of any kind", but it just says action and reaction. I ask because a bonus action is an action...

Fithelos will stay invisible. If this means he can't use a bonus action to dodge, that's fine.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 181):

Sorry.  Had to have pictures made today.  The stuff they made me drink to make my guts glow made me feel nauseated all day.

The snake slows as it gets closer to where you originally were, and starts sticking it's tongue out to taste the water. It's eyes aren't closed, but a think translucent layer of skin is covering its eyes (I'm assuming since you're just their staring at the snake, you'll be able to notice more).  The snake slows, but does not stop as it gets right above you.  It's head breaches the surface, then suddenly dives straight down.  It's head is moving side-to-side, most likely looking for something that stands out in the water.

You can:
1. Roll to see if it misses you in the decent, taking the chance that it will run into and instinctively bite.
2. Wait for it to draw near and launch an attack.
3. Wait to see if it decides you have left and leaves, taking the chance that you now know it can use it's sense of taste to find you. If it does, you can go with the whole dodge idea.
4. Something else.  I'm the DM, but I try to only control the entirety of all of the realms and planes of existence as well as every living (and non-living) NPC.

At this point, I would say you would not have to use a ki point.  It knows you're near, but will have to basically stumble into you.  You have the advantage of being able to watch it's every move.

You have 1 min 42 seconds (17 rounds) of air left.

As a DM, do I help too much?  I mean, especially since you are a veteran player.  I just think about all of the signs DMs have given me that I didn't pick up on until after the fact, and don't want my players to miss something that, inside my head, should've been easy to figure out.
I mean, there are somethings I intentionally make hard and try to not to give away, but like in this instance, it's a stupid snake.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:55, Fri 17 May 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 182):

I think you are doing a great job as a DM. One thing I really, really don't like is when when I have powers or the DM gives me great items or I work hard at coming up with something creative--and NOTHING I can do works. I haven't experienced that since playing. Though I will say that there are times I didn't try stuff because I thought I'd just be shot down. It has nothing to do with the way you are running things and everything to do with my past experiences.

But no, I don't think you help to much. If you did, I wouldn't be swimming toward land right now.

So far, I am very much enjoying this campaign. The only thing I'd like to do is level up so I'll have various abilities. Other than that...I wouldn't change a thing.


Fithelos will remain motionless and wait to see what the snake does.

If the serpent launches an attack--and hits--Fithelos would like to seize that moment to strike. If the creature is unable to land a hit, Fithelos will remain motionless.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 183):

It's not my fault Fithelos kept wanting to skip stuff. He probably would have leveled at least twice by now, had he not ignored obvious story points and decided to sail as direct as possible to the dungeon.  Of course, he also wouldn't be anywhere near completing the task set out before him.  I told you I wouldn't force anything, but I also don't have to reward you for circumventing everything.  Don't worry.  Depending on the route you take once you hit land, there are up to three more minor encounters and one major encounter available.

17:23, Today: Twiz, for the NPC Snake, rolled 14 using 1d100.  1-33 misses, 34-75 finds and strikes, 76+ finds but confused.

The snake can taste you, but still sees nothing and passes by you.

You may roll an attack of opportunity w/ advantage (AC 13), or remain hidden.  If you take the AoO, the fight begins with your turn immediately after.
16 rounds of air.  Also, once you start performing actions, your air will run out 50% quicker (if you act this round, 14.5 rounds left, then 13, etc.).

In reply to Twiz (msg # 184):

I'm not saying it's your fault--I was completely free to choose what I was going to do. Nor do I expect to level for avoiding fights/scenarios/etc. My point to bringing up the leveling is that I if I could do all the cool stuff higher levels get--this campaign thus far would be flawless for me as a player...
As I mentioned, you're doing good. I'm enjoying it.

First Attack:
09:03, Today: Fithelos rolled 27 using 1d20+9.  Unarmed Strike with Advantage on Attack of Opportunity.
09:05, Today: Fithelos rolled 10 using 1d6+4.  Damage.

Fithelos will expend one ki point to use Stunning Strike (Con Save DC16).

09:07, Today: Fithelos rolled 27 using 1d20+9.  Second Attack, Unarmed Strike
09:08, Today: Fithelos rolled 8 using 1d6+4.  Damage.

Ki Point expended:
Bonus Action: Flurry of Blows
09:11, Today: Fithelos rolled 25 using 1d20+9.  Flurry of Blows Strike 1.
09:11, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d6+4.  Flurry of Blows Strike 1 Damage.
09:11, Today: Fithelos rolled 25 using 1d20+9.  Flurry of Blows Strike 2.
09:11, Today: Fithelos rolled 5 using 1d6+4.  Flurry of Blows Strike 2 Damage.

Open Hand Technique:
Serpent must make STR Save (DC16) or can't take reaction until the end of your next turn.

30 points of Damage total. STR & CON Saves required.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:17, Tue 21 May 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 185):

It died eight times. It doesn't have to roll anything.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 186):

For some reason I was thinking this thing was the size of a small ship...

Fithelos will continue to swim toward land.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 187):

The Ultima version of a sea serpent is, but the DnD version is huge. That's a why I switched to a venomous snake.

You arrive on land, exhausted from the trip.

Fithelos will look around to see if there is any form of shelter... (shallow cave, rock outcropping, wayward pine, etc.) and seek refuge there. If none are visible, he will walk up the beach, lie down and rest.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 189):

The sands of the beach do not extend far onto land.  In front of you there is sparse forest, a bay, and then more forest across.  To your left (west), the beach curves and widens.  You notice a very nice tent, but no signs of life.  To your right (east) the beach curves out of sight.

Perception (DC 14)

Your options for cover are to check out the tent or move into the forest and hide in the trees.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:12, Wed 22 May 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 190):


09:56, Today: Fithelos rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

Fithelos will investigate the tent. If it truly looks abandoned, he will go inside and try to get a long rest.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 191):

In the forest to the east, you see a part of a small structure. You can't quite make out what it is, but it's definitely man-made.

You you still plan on checking the tent?
Also, I had the directions flipped, because I had the map tilted. Corrected below.

Fithelos will still go in the tent.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 193):

The tent is well put together.  Just outside the tent is a empty cooking pot over a campfire that's out and cold tot he touch. Inside the tent, there are two cots and some fishing gear.
The tent is maintained and empty, but there is no telling when the owner will return.

Fithelos will lie down in one of the cots. He will place a couple gold pieces on the ground next to him and go to sleep.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 195):

You pass out instantly. You sleep so hard you don't wake up when a herd of elephants storm the beach to fight the dynamite people of the explosion kingdom. Then, when the land reconstruction team came through to put everything back together, grinding rock to sand, replanting trees... You still didn't budge.
12 hours later, now late evening, you awake, well-rested, but your muscles are sore from the swim. -1 to dex-based checks for 24 hours.
The world around you is calm.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 196):

........what???
I take it that was sarcasm. About the disadvantage to Dex saves.
I mean the elephants.

Fithelos will stand up and exit the tent. Once outside, he'll head (I'm assuming West) into the forest.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 197):

You'll never know if the Elephants and the Dynamite People fought.  You slept through everything.  As far as disadvantage, YOU SWAM FOR 21 HOURS!  Don't worry though.  What happens in real life after you tear down your muscles by exercising???

East
https://drive.google.com/file/...CV-/view?usp=sharing

As you head into the forest, you notice the structure has a faint glow.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 198):

Fithelos will head toward the faint glow, making no attempt to mask his movements.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 199):

https://drive.google.com/file/...gmE/view?usp=sharing

You come upon the structure and notice a shrine similar to the one you started your journey near, minus the blood pouring from the center.  The area is calm as before, but there are two lanterns burning red, creating the glow you saw before.  The site and the ankh feel like a sanctuary, but the lanterns glow feel evil.
Looking at the center of the ankh, you realize there is a small portal into another plane.  You hear a low growl emanating from the other side.

You are currently just outside of the structure, standing in the grass.  Just to the north is a small pond.  Though you cannot see anything yet, you are hearing grunts into the forest past the pond.

Survival or Nature DC 16.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 200):

08:03, Today: Fithelos rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Survival.

Fithelos is not a huge fan of portals that give off an evil vibe. Nor does he like the thought of something nasty coming through the portal to shadow him once he leaves. Raising his hand, he lets loose an Eldritch Blast toward the lanterns. One beam at each.

08:05, Today: Fithelos rolled 21 using 1d20+9.  Eldritch Blast.
08:05, Today: Fithelos rolled 11 using 1d20+9.  Eldritch Blast.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 201):

There are two different grunts. You recognize one as a small group of gorilla's, the other is that of a couple of orcs a bit farther away.

Your eldritch blasts are absorbed by the lanterns and have no effect.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 202):

Fithelos glares at the lamps. How dare they resist his demonic gifts!

Realizing this magic is well beyond any power he possesses, Fithelos will continue on to the West, towards Destard. Moving more stealthy now that he's seen what inhabits this forest...

(He does not believe the orcs or gorillas will be welcoming folk in the slightest.)


11:05, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+9.  Stealth.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 203):

https://drive.google.com/file/...udv/view?usp=sharing

Not far from the shrine, you come across an orc encampment.  The orcs are nowhere to be seen, but they were obviously there recently.  There is a dead orc in the center of the camp along with several human bodies.  The camp walls have completely fallen apart, but there are exploding mushrooms all around leaving only one safe entrance.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 204):

Keeping a safe distance from the exploding mushrooms (100ft?) Fithelos will proceed to destroy them if possible with Eldritch Blast. Once cleared he will search the remains of the encampment.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 205):

Tried to reply earlier, but the site went down around lunch.


100' is unreasonable given the terrain, but you about 50' back and can still see the mushrooms.  The mushrooms are close enough to each other, one shot creates a chain reaction which takes out a section.  Three blasts later, all the sections are clear.  The mushrooms are much louder when they explode than you would expect, and now there is a thick cloud of spores floating in the air around the encampment.  The light wind isn't doing much to move it out of the way.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 206):

Fithelos will follow up his Eldritch Blasts with multiple, carefully places bonfires around the area. (60ft range, cantrip). He'll continue to cast until the air appears to be relatively clear of the spores.

Afterward, he'll tear a piece of his robe off and wrap it around his nose and mouth before investigating the campsite.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 207):

I have Linux hardening training the next two weeks and am trying to get a lot of stuff done before that starts.  I'll probably only respond in the evenings until that is over.

Any spores floating near the ground are immediately consumed by the heat.  The hot air creates its own upward breeze taking the rest of the spores at least away from head level.  Still a smart idea to keep your nose and mouth covered.

When you get into the campsite, you find several bodies, both orc and what was probably human lying around.  All of the belongings are piled to the side of the camp.  About one-hundred gold, a couple of rings, some camping gear...  The people taken by the orcs were probably not here looking for trouble given there are no decent weapons.

Roll knowledge orcs DC 10... history/insight/nature/survival... one of those probably?

Passive perception check [12]...
You hear the orcs grunting in the distance again.  Did they hear you?  Are they coming back?

Also, I'm bored so here's another color.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 208):
Linux Hardening Training? Everyone here (but me) have until the end of this month to complete the same training. Good luck on that.

11:38, Today: Fithelos rolled 28 using 1d20+8.  Insight.

Fithelos will examine the bodies in silent reverence and close the eyes of any of the fallen (if open). He will study the area intently, to determine if this was a raid on defenseless people or if the humans were perhaps armed by some other means (magic) and the orcs were getting revenge. Something to tell a clear story. He'll search for any indication of this being holy ground or territory belonging to one tribe of orcs or another.

And how fast did those mushrooms grow? If the orcs who did this could still be around...the fungi could be more dangerous than he anticipated.


Afterwards, he will try and locate a shovel in the camping gear or anywhere else laying around. If he finds one, he will dig a deep grave to put the human remains in. With the orcs, he'll pile them up and burn them.
Perhaps if the orcs see him dealing with the dead they'll leave him be, though he doesn't count on it.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 209):

They're bringing in an outside company for a 2 week, instructor-led class.  I don't know crap about Linux...  It should be interesting.

Nice insight.

It appears neither the orcs nor the people have a longterm camp here.  The orcs were probably there first. A scouting party, looking for food, treasure, other orc tribes? Whatever they're hunting, the camp is temporary.
The ruins around it are old and don't appear as if anyone cares they still exist.
The people probably stumbled into the orcs.  Given the long history between orcs and the more civilized creatures, the orcs probably didn't take time to find out if the people work packing some heavy artillery.  The bodies you can inspect have blunt force trauma to the head; they all died fairly instantly.  Their bodies haven't decayed much.  The orcs have probably been eating on them over the last day or so.
The mushrooms are not growing quickly.  See the remains the left behind, the "safe" entrance also originally had exploding mushrooms, but were tripped whenever the orcs arrived.
As you go through the camping gear, you locate a small shovel, probably used to dig a hotel for bodily wastes, not deep holes.  You also find a map of the area, with a some notes near the coast talking about possible construction sites.

From behind you, the grunts are now clearly getting closer.  You figure they are probably ~100' out, but not running to you. You cannot tell how many at this distance, but hear at least two grunting at the same time.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 210):

Very well.

Fithelos will instead try to find anything that might tell him where the humans were from. A clan or banner symbol, a signet ring, pocket journals, an identifying piece of jewelry, a tattoo...

After he deals with whatever is coming toward him--if possible--he'll burn all the bodies to prevent the spread of disease and to prevent desecration of the fallen.

Using Mask of Many Faces, Fithelos will change his appearance to look like a lich. Clasping his hands behind his back, he will await the beings headed toward him.

https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-34o...%2BUndead%2BLich.jpg

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 211):

The map is marked with the name "Trinsic's Brotherhood", but there isn't much else to go on.

You see three orcs walking through the trees before they see you.  Once they notice you, two stop.  The other takes a few steps forward before getting knocked in the arm by another's club.  You see them "talking" amongst each, then one turns and starts running away.  A few minutes later, you see the orc running back toward you with a thick silver rope in his hands.  When he is back in line with the others, he throws what you now see as a silver serpent at you.
I rolled offline, because going between tabs sucks  on mobile.  Rolled a 3 from a d50 (they're roughly 50' from you so it went 3').
The serpent's tail wraps around a tree, causing it to spin around and hit the ground next to the orcs. Now thoroughly pissed off, the silver serpent immediately one orc twice before they react.  He grabs at his chest and falls over.  The second orc brings his club down as hard as he can, but misses the serpent, while the third tries to help his fallen friend.  Bad choice.  Both orcs are bit and fall to the ground.
After a few rounds through the bodies to be sure nothing is moving, the serpent begins his feast of the first orc.

Technically, your trick worked. Had you not been in the disguise, the orcs most likely would've just chased you down.


You burn what's left of the bodies.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 212):

I had to take a moment and laugh at the whole scenario. Watching a bunch of orcs panic and get themselves killed without having to lift a finger or say a word...that is easily one of my most favorite victories I've ever had. As enjoyable as fighting is, for me it is far more rewarding when you can get your opponent to destroy themselves for you.

While the bodies are burning--and if the snake is still there--Fithelos will approach it (yet keep his distance) and attempt to communicate with it.

He will bow before speaking.
"Master Serpent, a magnificent display of your abilities. True, they were lowly orcs--but to face three at once is no small feat. If I may ask, oh shining silver one, what dangers lie to the West?"

If nothing happens, Fithelos will back away from the snake (Not turning his back on the creature), and continue West toward Destard.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 213):

So I imagine this large snake, having started eating the orc before you started burning the body, about a quarter of the way through the orc's body, and you come up to it and are like, "Sup."
Now let's say this snake can speak.  He's already unhinged his jaw enough to fit an orc's leg down it's throat. So now it's just like, "Mwatff umpff?
Joking aside, it's just a large snake.  The orc snuck up on it while it was basking in the sun to catch it, but after he grabbed it and tossed it, it was pissed and they didn't stand a chance.  You would've died pretty easily to a bite from it as well, but you have ranged attacks and can fly.


There is not response from the snake, but it stops eating on your approach.  Since you stop at a distance, it just waits.


You travel for some time through the jungle.  There is nothing special about the jungle itself, but you do not recognize many of the flora and fauna.  They are similar to what you've seen elsewhere, but the colors are more vibrant, and their edges are sharper.  Scattered throughout the jungle are ruins of old buildings, most of which are broken down, you're not sure what their original purpose is.

An hour or so after sunrise (14 more hours of dex disadvantage), you come upon some sandstone ruins. It stands out in the jungle against the other stone ruins. Inside what is left of the building there are several bookshelves, a chair sitting in front of a reading pedestal, and an out-of-place bearskin rug. The furniture is obviously newer than the building, but the books have been knocked over and pulled out of the shelves.

https://drive.google.com/file/...O_/view?usp=drivesdk

In reply to Twiz (msg # 214):

Fithelos will stop to examine each of the books. Those on the floor, on the shelves and the pedestal. While doing so, he will keep an eye on the Bear-Skin rug.

He will also organize the books after he is finished inspecting them, putting them back on the shelf in order--and clean the place up before continuing on.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:36, Fri 31 May 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 215):

Entering the room, you feel safe and calm.  It's obvious to you the area is magically protected, but you don't seem to care.  You decide to clean up the space and place the books, but you're not sure if it's you or the space that makes you feel like you should.

None of the books or authors are familiar to you, a reminder the place you are has existed in a bubble outside of Faerûn for a very long time.  You do read every title and author of every publication as you pick them up.  Do you open any?
There are 100 books, but it's not a random d100 something happens scenario.



1. The Divination Creed.  The cover of this old vade mecum indicates that it was edited by Fibur Redaxe. [58 pages].

2. The Light Manual.  This medium, slim tract is turqoise in colour. [235 pages].

3. A Book of Wines & Spirits by Baroness Thoin the Black.  Artwork by the famous Bruelin Stonehorn decorates the cover of this weighty journal. [69 pages].

4. The Folio of Onymatic Divinity by Lady Doli the Veiled.  This leather-bound codex contains an afterword by Firin Bronzehammer. [59 pages].

5. The Alchemy Palimpsest.  The pages of this waxed palimpsest are lined with brown stars. [130 pages].

6. A Manuscript of Witchcraft by Lady Aghi the Telestic.  This weighty folio contains a foreword by Thofur Broadshield. [ 290 pages].

7. Enigmas and Summoning: a Pamphlet by Queen Nobur Stoneforge the Black.  Bronze rivets punctuate the cover of this ancient red vade mecum. [229 pages].

8. A Journal of Religion by Abbess Hallodh the Numinous.  This gargantuan, old libram is blue in colour. [177 pages].

9. Sir Antaan the Wonderful's Gilded Journal of Onymatic Abjuration.  The title of this leather-bound turqoise codex is emblazoned in adamantium. [232 pages].

10. A Folio of Exotic Animals by Emperor Biin Blacksmith the Magnificent.  A silver clasp holds this recent handbook closed. [128 pages].

11. Demonology and Wines & Spirits: a Compilation by Lady Bolin the Hallowed.  You can see the words "Vi gadurm damen!" inscribed on the inside cover. [45 pages].

12. The Abjuration Codex.  This weighty tome is Volume 2 of a 7-part set. [80 pages].

13. The Pamphlet of Black Thaumaturgy by Kevin Harris the Great.  The cover of this recent tract is burnished with copper. [283 pages].

14. The Fine Libram of Books & Scrolls and Religion.  A iron clasp holds this handwritten compilation closed. [24 pages].

15. A Compilation of Conjuration by Prior K'mpek the Trifold.  You can see the words "Tangus tagopar a pilif tagolann!" inscribed on the inside cover. [186 pages].

16. Light and Diabolism: a Handbook by Gimli the Luminous.  The cover of this illustrated pamphlet is burnished with gold. [101 pages].

17. Transmutation and Light: a Handbook by Kili Ironmace the White.  Orange ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this weighty manuscript. [610 pages].

18. Evocation and Enchantment: a Compilation by Prioress Thrari Slateshield the Insidious.  The cover of this faded manuscript is burnished with silver. [39 pages].

19. The Vade Mecum of Hallowed Sorcery by Donna Price the Demented.  Gold rivets punctuate the cover of this weighty amber pamphlet. [144 pages].

20. Exploring The Great Sanctum of Monsters by Princess Bruelin Thunderbreaker the Resonant.  A adamantium clasp holds this recent doctrine closed. [145 pages].

21. The Exotic Animals Compilation.  The cover of this waxed book indicates that it was edited by Thobur Firemine. [90 pages].

22. A Handbook of Divination by Lewis Wilson the Unknown.  There are clearly pages missing from this handwritten violet scroll. [4 pages].

23. A Tract of Thaumaturgy by Aegduil the Hermetic.  Steel rivets punctuate the cover of this bejewelled indigo compendium. [11 pages].

24. A Folio of Magics by Adam Gray the Resplendent.  This old compendium contains a foreword by Bori Whitelock. [71 pages].

25. The Book of Trifold Transmutation by Charles Tyler the Whispering.  This fine, embossed vade mecum is grey in colour. [142 pages].

26. A Encyclopedia of Gems by Glorviel Fireaxe the Shadowed.  Silver rivets punctuate the cover of this faded amber pamphlet. [37 pages].

27. The Large Vade Mecum of Sorcery and Witchcraft.  There are clearly pages missing from this embossed orange tract. [181 pages].

28. A Journal of Diabolism by Queen Bruein Coppersmith the Draconic.  A bronze clasp holds this bejewelled vade mecum closed. [103 pages].

29. Catherine Harris the Volatile's Boundless Tract of Illuminated Secrets.  The cover of this weighty lexicon is dominated by an illustration of a unicorn. [207 pages].

30. Cookery and Demonology: a Journal by Catherine Roberts the Revised.  This illustrated compendium contains an afterword by Bibur Battlequarry. [52 pages].

31. Journey to The Wonderful Isle of Blood by Baroness Fëainyë the Poisonous.  This faded palimpsest contains an afterword by Fili Blackjaw. [25 pages].

32. The Ecology of The Elegant Abyss of Mists by Princess Ba'el the Ancient.  The title of this weighty turqoise encyclopedia is emblazoned in gold. [74 pages].

33. The Diminutive Tract of Handicrafts and Dipsomania.  This diminutive, crumbling palimpsest is black in colour. [172 pages].

34. The Hunting Pamphlet.  You can see the words "Tagopar suh dolibix!" inscribed on the inside cover. [76 pages].

35. Nichola Carter the Eldritch's Inscrutable Vade Mecum of Wonderful Light.  A bronze clasp holds this bejewelled codex closed. [253 pages].

36. The Scroll of Celestial Necromancy by Lord Brueli Blackmine the Villainous.  This large, leather-bound manual is crimson in colour. [217 pages].

37. King Biri Blackshield the Resonant's Hallowed Manual of Solar Demonology.  A large hexagon dominates the cover of this illustrated purple libram. [298 pages].

38. Enigmas and Porcelain, China, & Crystal: a Book by King Dobur the Trifold.  The cover of this slim tome is burnished with copper. [239 pages].

39. Thaumaturgy and Invocation: a Libram by Baron Goradh the Villainous.  The cover of this leather-bound doctrine indicates that it was edited by Thonor Silvermine. [23 pages].

40. Horticulture and Conjuration: a Guide by Lady Nofur Whiteshield the Shadowed.  The pages of this handwritten book are lined with turqoise octogons. [98 pages].

41. The Palimpsest of Gilded Conjuration by Gimli Goldjaw the Noxious.  This illustrated scroll is Volume 6 of a 11-part set. [291 pages].

42. A Palimpsest of Divinity by Dwain Thundersmith the Umbral.  The cover of this weighty pamphlet is burnished with silver. [268 pages].

43. A Pamphlet of Divination by Sean Smith the Luminous.  A iron clasp holds this well-preserved compendium closed. [33 pages].

44. Necromancy and Books & Scrolls: a Guide by Lord Magin the Hermetic.  This illustrated creed contains a foreword by Nolin Deepbeard. [55 pages].

45. Marquis Kadrya the White's Numinous Pamphlet of Inscrutable Light.  The cover of this bejewelled codex indicates that it was edited by Bari Steelhorn. [173 pages].

46. What Became of The Volatile Caves of Doom by Antaan the Dark.  The title of this embossed blue doctrine is emblazoned in gold. [47 pages].

47. The Compendium of Lost Cookery by Bishop Greyquarry the Luminous.  The cover of this waxed scroll is burnished with copper. [10 pages].

48. A Handbook of Demonology by Barbara Jones the Telestic.  Charcoal ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this embossed encyclopedia. [268 pages].

49. Music and Necromancy: a Compendium by Abbot Maegrod the Wonderful.  The cover of this slim doctrine indicates that it was edited by Thobur Goldbreaker. [190 pages].

50. The Minotaurs Compendium.  You can see the words "Estivas kair akular lethodar kalipar!" inscribed on the inside cover. [191 pages].

51. The Invocation Creed.  This small, bejewelled handbook is violet in colour. [26 pages].

52. The Vade Mecum of Olde Necromancy by Albert Bond the Olde.  Lavender ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this leather-bound codex. [247 pages].

53. The Illusion Manual.  The cover of this old doctrine indicates that it was edited by Bomnor Firequarry. [24 pages].

54. Charting The Revised Halls of Necromancy by Princess Bilin Firebrow the Terrible.  The text "A passage through them, with his blade unsheathed" is just about visible. [177 pages].

55. The Rituals Scroll.  This illustrated libram is Volume 4 of a 8-part set. [267 pages].

56. The Pamphlet of Whispering Evocation by Duchess Dwanor the Shadowed.  A large circle dominates the cover of this slim grey compendium. [267 pages].

57. The Creed of Luminous Darkness by Joan Watson the Ancient.  You can see the words "Igira pakliol kyrnawi digas kalipar!" inscribed on the inside cover. [285 pages].

58. Discovering The Calamitous Mines of Horrors by Lady Longjaw the Umbral.  This embossed codex is Volume 3 of a 7-part set. [109 pages].

59. The Scroll of Eldritch Summoning by Earl Mirhil the Revised.  This fine, embossed lexicon is red in colour. [143 pages].

60. A Manuscript of Minotaurs by Kevin Price the Draconic.  This illustrated handbook contains a foreword by Bobur Longbreaker. [284 pages].

61. Bishop Kellen the Accursed's Scioptic Folio of Dark Summoning.  There are clearly pages missing from this leather-bound green tome. [193 pages].

62. Invocation and Darkness: a Guide by Viscount Bruein the Enchanted.  The pages of this leather-bound tract are lined with violet triangles. [205 pages].

63. Thrain the Accursed's Dark Compendium of Resplendent Politics.  The cover of this well-preserved vade mecum indicates that it was edited by Firi Warfoot. [38 pages].

64. Transformation and Abjuration: a Pamphlet by Anthor Rockbeam the Black.  The cover of this handwritten manuscript is dominated by an illustration of a manticore. [154 pages].

65. Alchemy and Hexes: a Creed by Archbishop Kiin the Great.  The cover of this well-preserved libram is burnished with steel. [186 pages].

66. The Fine Handbook of Foods & Preparation and Thaumaturgy.  This slim vade mecum contains a foreword by Bori Battlemace. [256 pages].

67. An Expedition to The Great Catacombs of Peril by King Batahr the Black.  Adamantium rivets punctuate the cover of this crumbling burgundy palimpsest. [277 pages].

68. A Journal of Evocation by Baron Gimlin the Mystagogical.  The text "Achilles eyed him with a frown, and spake." is just about visible. [69 pages].

69. The Doctrine of Revised Divinity by Prior Taviel the Illuminated.  There are clearly pages missing from this ancient red vade mecum. [189 pages].

70. A Scroll of Diabolism by Bruelin the Awful.  Charcoal ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this waxed compendium. [270 pages].

71. The Fine Creed of Alchemy and Athletics.  You can see the words "Tagolann damen ith ne du!" inscribed on the inside cover. [12 pages].

72. The Manuscript of Resplendent Chronology by Kevin Williams the Magnificent.  The text "At once the voice of all was to respect" is just about visible. [288 pages].

73. The Tome of Draconic Wines & Spirits by Douglas Thomas the Onymatic.  The cover of this recent palimpsest is burnished with bronze. [152 pages].

74. The Knives & Daggers Book.  The cover of this weighty book is dominated by an illustration of a unicorn. [139 pages].

75. The Medium Manual of Zoology and Thaumaturgy.  A large octogon dominates the cover of this weighty crimson lexicon. [171 pages].

76. The Secrets Book.  The text "But let the people of my charge be saved" is just about visible. [87 pages].

77. Excursions into The Draconic Halls of Ichor by Marquise Biin the Resonant.  This weighty compilation is Volume 4 of a 11-part set. [29 pages].

78. The Large Tract of Hexes and Demonology.  Silver rivets punctuate the cover of this weighty violet tome. [171 pages].

79. The Diminutive Doctrine of Conjuration and Light.  This old book contains an afterword by Thrali Whitebeam. [22 pages].

80. Julie Williams the Calamitous's Wonderful Tract of Noxious Necromancy.  The cover of this old manual indicates that it was edited by Bruefur Stormhold. [264 pages].

81. Witchcraft and Hunting: a Journal by Count Tuortimo the Accursed.  The cover of this crumbling scroll indicates that it was edited by Noli Stonebane. [105 pages].

82. The Secrets of The Inscrutable Fane of Necromancy by Abbess Stoneshield the Wonderful.  A copper clasp holds this bejewelled book closed. [216 pages].

83. The Small Doctrine of Necromancy and Chronology.  This gargantuan, ancient creed is charcoal in colour. [25 pages].

84. The Compilation of Ancient Heraldry by Baron Legolung the Hallowed.  The text "The noble Chief Achilles from the son" is just about visible. [13 pages].

85. The Folio of Infernal Astrology by Countess Badich the Alabaster.  A large square dominates the cover of this ancient blue book. [35 pages].

86. Badich the Enchanted's Scioptic Scroll of Shadowed Thaumaturgy.  There are clearly pages missing from this slim black creed. [182 pages].

87. Detailing The Demented Abyss of Sigils by Carel Redbeard the Villainous.  The pages of this handwritten tract are lined with black triangles. [157 pages].

88. Countess Kalin the Unknown's Resplendent Doctrine of Eldritch Secrets.  The cover of this illustrated book is burnished with copper. [121 pages].

89. The Diminutive Creed of Witchcraft and Transformation.  The cover of this embossed lexicon is dominated by an illustration of a nymph. [130 pages].

90. The Summoning Pamphlet.  There are clearly pages missing from this crumbling indigo lexicon. [256 pages].

91. Duchess Linmë the White's Resonant Codex of Calamitous Demonology.  Tan ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this bejewelled manuscript. [2 pages].

92. The Coins & Tokens Tract.  The cover of this recent scroll is burnished with adamantium. [34 pages].

93. Prior Argan the Telestic's Poisonous Libram of Unequalled Athletics.  A large octogon dominates the cover of this embossed turqoise compilation. [261 pages].

94. The Large Vade Mecum of Wines & Spirits and Abjuration.  This faded pamphlet contains an afterword by Bruelin Battlesmith. [24 pages].

95. The Enigmas Vade Mecum.  Burgundy ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this ancient journal. [292 pages].

96. The Chronology Handbook.  Black ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this handwritten tract. [50 pages].

97. An Expedition to The Monstrous Lake of Bones by Tuorgon the Calamitous.  The cover of this handwritten guide is burnished with silver. [200 pages].

98. A Tome of Illusion by Duke Mirborn the Unequalled.  The text "A bark with lusty rowers well supplied;" is just about visible. [76 pages].

99. The Gargantuan Compendium of Exotic Animals and Hallucinatory Insanity.  You can see the words "Nal ast tsaran kini shirak!" inscribed on the inside cover. [2224 pages].

100. The Rituals Pamphlet.  The cover of this illustrated encyclopedia indicates that it was edited by Borin Silverhorn. [42 pages].
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:28, Sat 01 June 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 216):

Fithelos will skim through all the books...but the following are those he wants to take some time and read from. (If they are under 40 pages, he'll read the whole thing)

The Folio of Onymatic Divinity by Lady Doli the Veiled.
The Alchemy Palimpsest.
A Journal of Religion by Abbess Hallodh the Numinous.
A Folio of Exotic Animals by Emperor Biin Blacksmith the Magnificent.
The Fine Libram of Books & Scrolls and Religion.
Evocation and Enchantment: a Compilation by Prioress Thrari Slateshield the Insidious.
A Handbook of Divination by Lewis Wilson the Unknown.
A Encyclopedia of Gems by Glorviel Fireaxe the Shadowed.
Journey to The Wonderful Isle of Blood by Baroness Fëainyë the Poisonous.
Nichola Carter the Eldritch's Inscrutable Vade Mecum of Wonderful Light.
What Became of The Volatile Caves of Doom by Antaan the Dark.
The Invocation Creed.
The Illusion Manual.
The Pamphlet of Whispering Evocation by Duchess Dwanor the Shadowed.
The Scroll of Eldritch Summoning by Earl Mirhil the Revised.
Invocation and Darkness: a Guide by Viscount Bruein the Enchanted.
The Secrets Book.
The Large Tract of Hexes and Demonology.
Countess Kalin the Unknown's Resplendent Doctrine of Eldritch Secrets.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 217):



I'm going to need 100 constitution saves. DC 17
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:16, Mon 03 June 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 218):

11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 9 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 4 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 9 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 4 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 11 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:44, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 4 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 19 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:42, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:42, Today: Fithelos rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:42, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:41, Today: Fithelos rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:41, Today: Fithelos rolled 3 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:41, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:41, Today: Fithelos rolled 13 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:41, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:41, Today: Fithelos rolled 11 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:27, Today: Fithelos rolled 11 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 4 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 15 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 5 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 5 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:26, Today: Fithelos rolled 11 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:25, Today: Fithelos rolled 4 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:23, Today: Fithelos rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:23, Today: Fithelos rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:23, Today: Fithelos rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:23, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:23, Today: Fithelos rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:23, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+1.   Constitution.
11:23, Today: Fithelos rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 19 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 11 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 13 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 9 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:22, Today: Fithelos rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:21, Today: Fithelos rolled 4 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:21, Today: Fithelos rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:21, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 16 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 16 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 16 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:20, Today: Fithelos rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 13 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 9 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 19 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.
11:19, Today: Fithelos rolled 16 using 1d20+1.  Constitution.

Few things here, you end up 13,684 pages @ ~1 page/minute or 9.5 days of continuous reading, let's say 14 days total.  While inside the ruins, everything outside appears calm.  No animals walk by, no orcs, the weather is always comfortable.

I tried to mark things that you would want to follow up on, but you might want to read through it all to make sure there isn't something you got that I missed.

Once you have finished a book, you cannot reread it, nor do you want to.  You shelve it and move to the next one.  At no point do you feel forced to read the books, these are just all of the books you felt like you were interested in reading.
When you reply, please include book numbers.


1  The Divination Creed. The cover of this old vade mecum indicates that it was edited by Fibur Redaxe. [58 pages]. 
Comprehend Languages while in the ruins (basically the only reason you can read everything here)

3  A Book of Wines & Spirits by Baroness Thoin the Black. Artwork by the famous Bruelin Stonehorn decorates the cover of this weighty journal. [69 pages]. 
Results unknown

4  The Folio of Onymatic Divinity by Lady Doli the Veiled. This leather-bound codex contains an afterword by Firin Bronzehammer. [59 pages].  Lady Doli the Veiled believed the gods’ names held power beyond what even the most devout followers ever believed.  She delved deep in the etymology of 50 different gods, most of which you were familiar with.  Most of her writing was dull, but you read through looking for insight into the strange island nation.  Turns out, Firin Bronzehammer was much more helpful in the afterword when he stated, “The knowledge gained in this book will no doubt be the last of its kind.”  That was probably because no one wanted to read the book.
+2 to Religion

5  The Alchemy Palimpsest. The pages of this waxed palimpsest are lined with brown stars. [130 pages].  This was a difficult read, since every page had been written to twice.  Though some pages were a complete mess, you learned a lot of the world around you.
+2 to Survival

7  Enigmas and Summoning: a Pamphlet by Queen Nobur Stoneforge the Black. Bronze rivets punctuate the cover of this ancient red vade mecum. [229 pages].  Abbess’s journal poorly written.  The fact that it was published is beyond reasoning.  Furthermore, the only deities he mentions are Jaccian, Jaccob, and Dylian.  You had heard stories of Jaccian, the Divine of Perfection, but no one followed him that you knew of.  You were surprised to find that two gods, Jaccob and Dylian, rose from his ashes.  Both of which had a strong following on this island centuries earlier. 
When you finish reading this book, a note falls from it.  You read the front:
Fithelos,
There are many ways to complete your quest.  The right choice is not always straight-forward.
You flip it over to read the back:
Fithelos,
Do not risk your life by angering a God. Follow the word of the quest and surely you will be rewarded.
As soon as you read the last word, the note turns into ashes.

8  A Journal of Religion by Abbess Hallodh the Numinous. This gargantuan, old libram is blue in colour. [177 pages]. 
Results unknown

9  Sir Antaan the Wonderful's Gilded Journal of Onymatic Abjuration. The title of this leather-bound turqoise codex is emblazoned in adamantium. [232 pages]. 
Results unknown

10  A Folio of Exotic Animals by Emperor Biin Blacksmith the Magnificent. A silver clasp holds this recent handbook closed. [128 pages].  Emperor Biin loved exotic animals.  He would search the nation for them, collect them, care for them, and when they reached the perfect stage, he would enjoy them with a fine wine.
+2 to Animal Handling

11  Demonology and Wines & Spirits: a Compilation by Lady Bolin the Hallowed. You can see the words "Vi gadurm damen!" inscribed on the inside cover. [45 pages]. 
Vulnerable to the effects of alcohol for 1 day

13  The Pamphlet of Black Thaumaturgy by Kevin Harris the Great. The cover of this recent tract is burnished with copper. [283 pages]. 
Results unknown

14  The Fine Libram of Books & Scrolls and Religion. A iron clasp holds this handwritten compilation closed. [24 pages].  Many pages are missing from this book, otherwise it would be extremely helpful.  Not only did it contain information on different books and scrolls, it actually contained a few helpful spell scrolls. 
Scroll of Investiture of Flame
Scroll of Far Step
Scroll of Wall of Force


15  A Compilation of Conjuration by Prior K'mpek the Trifold. You can see the words "Tangus tagopar a pilif tagolann!" inscribed on the inside cover. [186 pages]. 
Results unknown

16  Light and Diabolism: a Handbook by Gimli the Luminous. The cover of this illustrated pamphlet is burnished with gold. [101 pages]. 
Results unknown

17  Transmutation and Light: a Handbook by Kili Ironmace the White. Orange ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this weighty manuscript. [610 pages]. 
A Goodberry falls out of the book

18  Evocation and Enchantment: a Compilation by Prioress Thrari Slateshield the Insidious. The cover of this faded manuscript is burnished with silver. [39 pages].  This book contains nothing but the facts.  A straight-to-the-point attitude you wish all the authors had.
You learn one evocation and one enchantment cantrip.

19  The Vade Mecum of Hallowed Sorcery by Donna Price the Demented. Gold rivets punctuate the cover of this weighty amber pamphlet. [144 pages]. 
You take 3d10 necrotic damage

20  Exploring The Great Sanctum of Monsters by Princess Bruelin Thunderbreaker the Resonant. A adamantium clasp holds this recent doctrine closed. [145 pages]. 
Roll a d100

21  The Exotic Animals Compilation. The cover of this waxed book indicates that it was edited by Thobur Firemine. [90 pages]. 
Roll a d100

22  A Handbook of Divination by Lewis Wilson the Unknown. There are clearly pages missing from this handwritten violet scroll. [4 pages].  How can you have pages missing from a scroll? Hell if I know, but somehow this library contains a rare scroll with missing pages. Also, why is it called a “Handbook”?  If it were a Handbook, it would make sense that it is missing some pages, but then why is it described as a handwritten scroll?  I got this.  This item changes between a book and a scroll every few minutes.  In scroll form, it’s handwritten, but many of the lines are unreadable due to improper storage.  In book forum, the thing looks like it should have 20 pages, but is left with only 4.  Either way, reading it is a pain in the rear. You learn nothing from this piece of trash that someone should have used for kindling.  For some unknown reason, you place the book back on the shelf.
+2 on any check to confuse someone

23  A Tract of Thaumaturgy by Aegduil the Hermetic. Steel rivets punctuate the cover of this bejewelled indigo compendium. [11 pages]. 
The ground rumbles, thunder snaps, a cool breeze calms it all and then nothing.

24  A Folio of Magics by Adam Gray the Resplendent. This old compendium contains a foreword by Bori Whitelock. [71 pages]. 
A Mage Hand turns the pages for you

25  The Book of Trifold Transmutation by Charles Tyler the Whispering. This fine, embossed vade mecum is grey in colour. [142 pages].  A whisper from the book tells you to turn to page 53. Page 53 has a crudely drawn woman exposing herself. 
The whisper laughs and disappears

26  A Encyclopedia of Gems by Glorviel Fireaxe the Shadowed. Silver rivets punctuate the cover of this faded amber pamphlet. [37 pages].  Upon opening this encyclopedia that is also somehow a 37-page pamphlet, 20 labeled gems fallout.
chrysoberyl    coral    garnet (red)    jade    pearl (pink)        spinel (deep green)    tourmaline    alexandrite    aquamarine    garnet (violet)    pearl (black)    spinel (deep blue)    topaz (golden yellow)    emerald    opal (fire)    sapphire (blue)    corundum (rich purple)    sapphire (black star)    ruby (star)    jacinth


27  The Large Vade Mecum of Sorcery and Witchcraft. There are clearly pages missing from this embossed orange tract. [181 pages]. 
Roll a Wisdom Save

29  Catherine Harris the Volatile's Boundless Tract of Illuminated Secrets. The cover of this weighty lexicon is dominated by an illustration of a unicorn. [207 pages].  The moment you open the book, the ruins are lit up like they are 10' from the sun.  You can't read the book. 
You put it down and wait 45 minutes for your sight to return.

31  Journey to The Wonderful Isle of Blood by Baroness Fëainyë the Poisonous. This faded palimpsest contains an afterword by Fili Blackjaw. [25 pages].  Although the book is “based on true events”, Blackjaw seems to believe the Baroness may have been on the journey. None will ever know as the journey ends abruptly in the book when the entire crew falls mysteriously ill. Blackjaw notes he wish he could investigate further, but he is currently under the weather.
A vial of cloudy green liquid falls out of the book.  The label shows a picture of a person eating.

32  The Ecology of The Elegant Abyss of Mists by Princess Ba'el the Ancient. The title of this weighty turqoise encyclopedia is emblazoned in gold. [74 pages].  Even comprehend languages cannot read this book.
 Roll a Constitution Save.

33  The Diminutive Tract of Handicrafts and Dipsomania. This diminutive, crumbling palimpsest is black in colour. [172 pages]. 
Results unknown

34  The Hunting Pamphlet. You can see the words "Tagopar suh dolibix!" inscribed on the inside cover. [76 pages]. 
+1 to Survival while in Britannia

35  Nichola Carter the Eldritch's Inscrutable Vade Mecum of Wonderful Light. A bronze clasp holds this bejewelled codex closed. [253 pages].  When you open the book, all of the pages have been hollowed out.  Inside is a charm filled with what looks like oil and water separated.  When you remove the necklace, the inside cover of the book reads, “A Gift To Light Your Way When Everything Is Mixed Up.”.
A charm of light.

36  The Scroll of Celestial Necromancy by Lord Brueli Blackmine the Villainous. This large, leather-bound manual is crimson in colour. [217 pages].  Why would you read this out loud?
The dead come to life.  Lucky for you, they're so ancient, even the bones have turned to dust.

37  King Biri Blackshield the Resonant's Hallowed Manual of Solar Demonology. A large hexagon dominates the cover of this illustrated purple libram. [298 pages].  Finishing the book, a royal looking man with demonic features appears, burst into flames, and turns to ash
Results unknown

38  Enigmas and Porcelain, China, & Crystal: a Book by King Dobur the Trifold. The cover of this slim tome is burnished with copper. [239 pages].  A beautiful porcelain doll falls out of the book
Roll a Dex Save

39  Thaumaturgy and Invocation: a Libram by Baron Goradh the Villainous. The cover of this leather-bound doctrine indicates that it was edited by Thonor Silvermine. [23 pages].  The whispers from the book telling you to stop make it nigh impossible to read
Roll a Constitution Save to continue reading

40  Horticulture and Conjuration: a Guide by Lady Nofur Whiteshield the Shadowed. The pages of this handwritten book are lined with turqoise octogons. [98 pages]. 
Plants spring up all around the library, roll survival

42  A Palimpsest of Divinity by Dwain Thundersmith the Umbral. The cover of this weighty pamphlet is burnished with silver. [268 pages]. 
Results unknown

43  A Pamphlet of Divination by Sean Smith the Luminous. A iron clasp holds this well-preserved compendium closed. [33 pages]. 
Results unknown

44  Necromancy and Books & Scrolls: a Guide by Lord Magin the Hermetic. This illustrated creed contains a foreword by Nolin Deepbeard. [55 pages].  Several scrolls fall to the floor when you open the book
Dex Save

45  Marquis Kadrya the White's Numinous Pamphlet of Inscrutable Light. The cover of this bejewelled codex indicates that it was edited by Bari Steelhorn. [173 pages].  173 pages to tell you inscrutable light is unable to be understood
Results unknown

46  What Became of The Volatile Caves of Doom by Antaan the Dark. The title of this embossed blue doctrine is emblazoned in gold. [47 pages].  he first 46 ½ pages describe in detail the Caves of Doom. The last paragraph of the book states the caves probably never existed given none of the journey to the caves did not make sense with any of the known landmarks of the island nation.  You however recognize the given map as an entrance to the Underdark, with a hidden path to a mysterious treasure. 
A treasure map.

47  The Compendium of Lost Cookery by Bishop Greyquarry the Luminous. The cover of this waxed scroll is burnished with copper. [10 pages].  The scroll provides instructions on how to fold it into a frying pan.
A paper frying pan

48  A Handbook of Demonology by Barbara Jones the Telestic. Charcoal ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this embossed encyclopedia. [268 pages]. 
Results unknown

49  Music and Necromancy: a Compendium by Abbot Maegrod the Wonderful. The cover of this slim doctrine indicates that it was edited by Thobur Goldbreaker. [190 pages].  The book contains sheet music and is partially hollowed out  to hold a small black flute
A necroflute?

50  The Minotaurs Compendium. You can see the words "Estivas kair akular lethodar kalipar!" inscribed on the inside cover. [191 pages].  A popup book of Minotaurs, cute.
Results unknown

51  The Invocation Creed. This small, bejewelled handbook is violet in colour. [26 pages].  The book tells how, when, and why to invoke a supernatural power.  Never for personal gain, never to harm others…blah blah blah. If they really cared, they wouldn’t also publish some of the summoning circles for evil creatures.  But that’s just none of my business.
A small note in the back of the book has a crudely drawn air elemental on one side and a summoning circle on the other.  The paper itself smells of incense.

53  The Illusion Manual. The cover of this old doctrine indicates that it was edited by Bomnor Firequarry. [24 pages].  24 pages?  I mean that was just a guess from flipping the pages, but you seem to turn pages for a few hours before getting to the end.  I think they made it look smaller than it really was to get people to read it.
You learn your choice of an illusion cantrip.

54  Charting The Revised Halls of Necromancy by Princess Bilin Firebrow the Terrible. The text "A passage through them, with his blade unsheathed" is just about visible. [177 pages]. 
Take 5d10 necrotic damage

55  The Rituals Scroll. This illustrated libram is Volume 4 of a 8-part set. [267 pages]. 
You receive an omen from an otherworldly entity about the results of continuing to read that leads you to believe nothing major will happen.

56  The Pamphlet of Whispering Evocation by Duchess Dwanor the Shadowed. A large circle dominates the cover of this slim grey compendium. [267 pages].  267 pages of densely packed, tiny writing.  This compendium explains how the school of magic uses your voice to draw power and why it must do so. It also reveals another method to give your evocation the power it needs. 
Three times per day, you can draw power from the earth, through your feet and out through your hands to forgo the verbal component of an evocation spell.

59  The Scroll of Eldritch Summoning by Earl Mirhil the Revised. This fine, embossed lexicon is red in colour. [143 pages].  Most of the text is far beyond your understanding.  Such as, how are there 143 pages on a scroll?  What little you do understand gives you insight into your current power.
A critical success on an Eldritch Blast gives you an additional beam.  You can no longer critically fail.

60  A Manuscript of Minotaurs by Kevin Price the Draconic. This illustrated handbook contains a foreword by Bobur Longbreaker. [284 pages].  What is it with Minotaurs
I don't know.  You can now make yourself look like a Minotaur once per day, but only for 1 second and only if no one can see you.

61  Bishop Kellen the Accursed's Scioptic Folio of Dark Summoning. There are clearly pages missing from this leather-bound green tome. [193 pages].  The book sounded cooler than it was.
The ruins are surrounded in magical darkness, but you're not even aware of it.

62  Invocation and Darkness: a Guide by Viscount Bruein the Enchanted. The pages of this leather-bound tract are lined with violet triangles. [205 pages].  A long read, but one of the most interesting.  Viscount Bruein was obviously familiar with more than one demon.  His extensive knowledge breaks down how invocation can be used in brutally terrifying ways. 
Gain Cloak of Flies: As a bonus action, you can surround yourself with a magical aura that looks like buzzing flies. The aura extends 5 feet from you in every direction, but not through total cover. It lasts until you're incapacitated or you dismiss it as a bonus action.  The aura grants you advantage on Charisma (Intimidation) checks but disadvantage on all other Charisma checks. Any other creature that starts its turn in the aura takes poison damage equal to your Charisma modifier (minimum of 0 damage).  Once you use this invocation, you can’t use it again until you finish a short or long rest.

63  Thrain the Accursed's Dark Compendium of Resplendent Politics. The cover of this well-preserved vade mecum indicates that it was edited by Firi Warfoot. [38 pages].  You tried to read the book, but it required 2 forms of photo id and signatures from both biological parents.
Also, each form must be witnessed and notarized by a licensed blacksmith

64  Transformation and Abjuration: a Pamphlet by Anthor Rockbeam the Black. The cover of this handwritten manuscript is dominated by an illustration of a manticore. [154 pages]. 
The book transforms your chair into the most comfortable thing you've ever sat on, then immediately counterspells it.

65  Alchemy and Hexes: a Creed by Archbishop Kiin the Great. The cover of this well-preserved libram is burnished with steel. [186 pages].  Every page is sticky, burnt, crinkled, cut… A note on the last page recommends not testing hexes on yourself while practicing alchemy
Results unknown

66  The Fine Handbook of Foods & Preparation and Thaumaturgy. This slim vade mecum contains a foreword by Bori Battlemace. [256 pages].  Every page is an exotic recipe, some ingredients you've never heard of.
You smell delicious foods, making you hungry, and you eat half of your rations

69  The Doctrine of Revised Divinity by Prior Taviel the Illuminated. There are clearly pages missing from this ancient red vade mecum. [189 pages].  Every page you read makes more and more sense.  It's not just a revision of divinity, but how you can become a divine yourself
Unfortunately, the last 30 pages are missing a long with any secrets the book held.

70  A Scroll of Diabolism by Bruelin the Awful. Charcoal ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this waxed compendium. [270 pages].  This "book" generator sucks.  I should've revised these before I copy-pasta'd them.
Results unknown

71  The Fine Creed of Alchemy and Athletics. You can see the words "Tagolann damen ith ne du!" inscribed on the inside cover. [12 pages].  aka, Steroids!
Results unknown

72  The Manuscript of Resplendent Chronology by Kevin Williams the Magnificent. The text "At once the voice of all was to respect" is just about visible. [288 pages].  Time seems to stop moving as you read through this book
Time stopped as you read through the book

73  The Tome of Draconic Wines & Spirits by Douglas Thomas the Onymatic. The cover of this recent palimpsest is burnished with bronze. [152 pages].  You thought Elvish Spirits were strong…
Results unknown

74  The Knives & Daggers Book. The cover of this weighty book is dominated by an illustration of a unicorn. [139 pages]. 
So many papercuts.  15d4 damage

76  The Secrets Book. The text "But let the people of my charge be saved" is just about visible. [87 pages].  All other text is missing. You may roll investigation DC16 to continue.
Unknown

77  Excursions into The Draconic Halls of Ichor by Marquise Biin the Resonant. This weighty compilation is Volume 4 of a 11-part set. [29 pages].  The vascular system of a dragon
Unfortunately you only have the section on the capillaries of the back.

78  The Large Tract of Hexes and Demonology. Silver rivets punctuate the cover of this weighty violet tome. [171 pages].  The horrors described in this book are hard enough to read, but the illustrations on some pages make you sick to your stomach.  The damage you could cause with this knowledge would bring any normal man to his knees.
Hex is now a cantrip.

79  The Diminutive Doctrine of Conjuration and Light. This old book contains an afterword by Thrali Whitebeam. [22 pages]. 
You now have the Ritual of Light.  After preparing an open 20'x20' area with a diamond of every inch and spending 3 days fasting while casting this spell, you can glow in the dark for 5 minutes.

80  Julie Williams the Calamitous's Wonderful Tract of Noxious Necromancy. The cover of this old manual indicates that it was edited by Bruefur Stormhold. [264 pages]. 
You throw up.

81  Witchcraft and Hunting: a Journal by Count Tuortimo the Accursed. The cover of this crumbling scroll indicates that it was edited by Noli Stonebane. [105 pages]. 
You now know it is possible to hunt game with magic.  I mean, you already knew that, but now you are positive it is a thing some people do.

83  The Small Doctrine of Necromancy and Chronology. This gargantuan, ancient creed is charcoal in colour. [25 pages].  This GARGANTUAN (25 page) creed…
Turns out it's just a diary of a necromancer. "Nightal 11. Dear Diary, Tomorrow is the feast of the moon and I still don't know who I'm going to bring back to life to help me enslave the village."

84  The Compilation of Ancient Heraldry by Baron Legolung the Hallowed. The text "The noble Chief Achilles from the son" is just about visible. [13 pages].  13 Pages of some guy bragging about his Coat of Arms
A patch depicting the Coat of Arms of a long forgotten family.

85  The Folio of Infernal Astrology by Countess Badich the Alabaster. A large square dominates the cover of this ancient blue book. [35 pages].  "Infernal Astrology"? Why is this not what's popular today?
Saturn will peak this month making it a good time to kill your family. Don't forget that the moon will be waning so you'll want to keep an eye out for that back stabbing (literally and metaphorically) cousin.

87  Detailing The Demented Abyss of Sigils by Carel Redbeard the Villainous. The pages of this handwritten tract are lined with black triangles. [157 pages].  Carel Redbeard went insane gaining the information needed to write this book.
Unfortunately he's so insane the only "sigil" you get is the bubble 'S' the girls used to write in grade school.

88  Countess Kalin the Unknown's Resplendent Doctrine of Eldritch Secrets. The cover of this illustrated book is burnished with copper. [121 pages].  The Doctrine of Eldritch Secrets opens a world of possibilities you’re sure none from Faerûn were aware of.  As tempting as it would be to study the book endlessly, you have too many others you need to get through.  You put it on the shelf, sure you’ll return to it later.
You gain Eldritch Spear.  Eldritch Blast now has a range of 300’

89  The Diminutive Creed of Witchcraft and Transformation. The cover of this embossed lexicon is dominated by an illustration of a nymph. [130 pages].  130 pages is a "diminutive creed" while the "gargantuan doctrine" was 25 pages.
Results unknown

90  The Summoning Pamphlet. There are clearly pages missing from this crumbling indigo lexicon. [256 pages].  256 page pamphlet… every important page has been ripped out
Results unknown

91  Duchess Linmë the White's Resonant Codex of Calamitous Demonology. Tan ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this bejewelled manuscript. [2 pages].  Upon opening the 2 page codex marked throughout with tan ribbons, a Demon appears in front of you!
He knocks over the pedestal, apologizes and picks it up, then begins to threaten you, but a bird flies into his mouth, choking him to death.  His body vanishes. What a calamitous sight...

92  The Coins & Tokens Tract. The cover of this recent scroll is burnished with adamantium. [34 pages].  Imagine one of those booklets with every states quarter in it and fun facts about each one.
Except all the coins are stolen.

93  Prior Argan the Telestic's Poisonous Libram of Unequalled Athletics. A large octogon dominates the cover of this embossed turqoise compilation. [261 pages].  More Steroids?
There's a cracked vial taped to the inside of the book along with a broken syringe.

94  The Large Vade Mecum of Wines & Spirits and Abjuration. This faded pamphlet contains an afterword by Bruelin Battlesmith. [24 pages].  Bunch of drunkards in this library
Results unknown

95  The Enigmas Vade Mecum. Burgundy ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this ancient journal. [292 pages].  It's a crossword puzzle book
An easy one too, considering it's been completely filled out.

96  The Chronology Handbook. Black ribbons are used to mark pages throughout this handwritten tract. [50 pages].  This book has the ability move you through time.
While reading this book, time passes at a rate of 1 minute per minute, but it feels a lot longer.

99  The Gargantuan Compendium of Exotic Animals and Hallucinatory Insanity. You can see the words "Nal ast tsaran kini shirak!" inscribed on the inside cover. [2224 pages].  The first page has a small sheet of paper taped to it with "eat me" written on it.  You flip through a few pages but they are blank
Do you eat the piece of paper?
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:56, Wed 05 June 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 220):

13:38, Today: Fithelos rolled 70 using 1d100.  Book 20.
13:38, Today: Fithelos rolled 27 using 1d100.  Book 21.
13:43, Today: Fithelos rolled 14 using 1d20+2.  Wisdom. Book 27
13:47, Today: Fithelos rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Constitution. Book 32.
13:55, Today: Fithelos rolled 17 using 1d20+8.  Dex Save. Book 38.
13:56, Today: Fithelos rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Constitution Save to keep reading. Book 39.
13:57, Today: Fithelos rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Survival. Book 40.
13:58, Today: Fithelos rolled 18 using 1d20+8.  Dex Save. Book 44.
14:09, Today: Fithelos rolled 23 using 1d20+3.  Investigation. Book 76.

Fithelos will study the piece of paper for a moment. Never hearing of anything bad happening from someone eating paper, he says to himself, "Why not?" and pops it in his mouth, chews it and swallows.

You now have a miniature adamantium statue of a displacer beast.


You now have a miniature statue of a guinea pig.


For a moment you're afraid to turn the page, but suppress the fear and continue reading.


You get to the last page which is just a black void. You stare into the void, begin to hear voices, a fog rolls into the ruins.  Suddenly a single voice cuts through all of the others, "You have already been blessed."  The world snaps back into view, the voices and fog are gone.


You catch the porcelain doll before it can hit the ground.


You push aside the whispers and read to the end.  The book glows so bright you have to shield your eyes.  When the light fades, a ghostly figure appears before with broken chains.  Another set of chains lay on the floor heading toward the figure, but lying limp on the ground. Reading this text has freed this figure from captivity.
"Ask your question and I shall answer."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:36, Thu 06 June 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 222):

Fithelos sees the chains and dark memories momentarily fill his thoughts. Clenching his jaw he closes his eyes for a moment to calm his mind.
After a moment he asks the ghostly figure,

"How can you be freed?"
See previous message.  It would've have been obvious to you his broken chains meant he had been freed.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:38, Thu 06 June 2019.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 222):

"How can I bring Balance to Britannia?"




Sorry for the delayed response. Was having a bad bout of...paranoia? anxiety? I dunno. I'll have days/weeks where I stay away from everyone/everything and then I'm fine again. Let us press forward!

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 224):

The spirit looks at you quizzically, "How the hell should I know.  I've been stuck in that book for centuries.  You really have no clue what you've done, do you?  Did you... Did you read that entire book for fun?  Screw this I'm out."  With that, the spirit disappears before giving you a chance to react.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 225):


The plants should be left alone.  You recognize them as a toxic plant that consumes bugs.  Touching them will cause rashes and burns, the smoke from burning them is extremely toxic.  They will last about 12 hours without sustenance, and you haven't even heard a cricket chirp in the last couple of days.


Upon opening the book, several scrolls fall to the floor. You quickly reach to catch them, but with their age, they crumble in your hands. If the scrolls had hit the ground, some fantastical beasts would have probably destroyed you.


The paper appears to be affected by temperature.  Places you touch become darker, no readable text appears.  If just the heat from your hand can cause damage, maybe cold is the answer.  Do you continue?

Fithelos will hold the paper out and blow gently on the paper. If that doesn't work...he'll return the paper from the book it came from.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 227):


You place it on your tongue and it begins to melt away.  All you test is the ink that was printed on it.  You wait a few minutes, looking around and back at the book, thinking you were probably just duped into eating a piece of paper.  You start flipping through more pages to find...something...anything.
Then it begins.  You turn the page and there is a colorful dot in the center that seems to be moving.  The color changes randomly and swirls together as it gets larger and larger, until it forms into a 3 headed giraffe with wings and flies away.
The next page a worm like creature uncurled then opened its mouth.  The mouth opened so wide it eventually turned back around, turning it's body inside out.  When it did it again, it ate itself into nothing.
Each and every page opened brought more colorful and exotic animals, seemingly brought to life out of the pages of the book.

You are high on LSD for the next 18 hours.  When you come down, you experience what's known as the afterglow for the next day. You feel like you could take on whatever the world throws at you.  You realize this is the last book you wanted to read.  Smile as you place it on the shelf and gather your belongings.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 228):

Huh.




Alright...well 18 hours later, hopefully that exhaustion has worn off.
If Fithelos survives his high, he will continue West toward Destard.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 229):

As soon as you leave the library, you realize that it has rained fairly hard recently, but you can't recall that ever happening. When you turn to look at the library, the books, bookcases, chair, rug, and pedastool are all gone.  Just empty ruins are left behind.

Between the knowledge gained, and giving your body plenty of rest since the swim, you feel like a brand new person. +2 levels

Hot diggety.

Alright. I imagine Fithelos feeling like I do after drinking a gourmet rootbeer after several months of drinking only water. (Boylans, Virgils, Natural Brew...)

Using Mask of Many faces, Fithelos will shift his appearance to 'dress to impress'.

He will continue on through the forest.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 231):

On your walk, do you plan on staying near the mountains, the coast, or roughly in the center of the woods between both?

In reply to Twiz (msg # 232):

Fithelos will remain in the woods.

Are there any towns or villages along the way?

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 233):

Check your map. Your across the lagoon from the shrine of honor.

https://drive.google.com/file/...7F/view?usp=drivesdk
You come across a cave. You can hear the growls of different beasts coming from inside.

Fithelos pauses.

He will take the figurine of the guinea pig out of one of his pockets, and attempt to bring it to life. (He believes it to be a figurine of wondrous power). If it is a figurine of wondrous power and if Fithelos can activate it, he will send the guinea pig into the cave. (For the creature should just return to its figurine form in Fithelos' hand if anything happens to it.)

If nothing happens or he can't figure it out, the monk-warlock will peer into the darkness of the cave at a distance to find out what is making the growl.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 235):

After failing to bring the figurine to life, you assume cause you haven't attuned to it yet, you look into the cave to see it curves off almost immediately. You do see a flame of some sort is moving around.

Do you mean it's a living flame? Or someone is holding onto a torch, moving around.

Fithelos will pocket the figurine and walk just inside the mouth of the cave. Calling out, he'll say, "Hello? Could you possibly help me? I'm headed to Destard and was wondering if you could tell me the most direct route by which to take."

The monk-lock will act as though he is squinting to better see in the dark--and scan the darkened areas to make sure there's no one else lurking nearby ready to jump him.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 237):

You see the flame get brighter, as if it got hotter suddenly, then it quickly comes up from the corner.  Just before it rounds the corner, a flaming hand hits an invisible barrier and starts pounding against it.  A fire elemental.  Something has sealed it in.  You ponder for a moment, when suddenly the pounding stops.  The fire elemental turns, distracted by something, then is slammed against the barrier.  You head farther down the cave to see what is going on to find it fighting what looks like a red alligator.  From your time in the library, you remember it's called a lava lizard.
What else do you remember?  Roll the higher of survival or nature with advantage (DC 13).

On the ground near the barrier is an old sign that reads "Passage to Delucia".


Also, I don't know if you're ignoring your hologram map or what, but you can pull up the game map at anytime.  You would have a very good idea of where you are at and where you are going.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 238):

Also, because of afterglow, if you are considering taking the passage, the idea of a fight would not stop you. If you are not considering taking the passage to Delucia, then you would not be compelled to do so.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 238):

Fithelos knows where he's going. He asked the question he did to make neutral conversation so as not to appear threatening.

10:56, Today: Fithelos rolled 9 using 1d20+5.  Survival.

Why is there a skull and crossbones on the map? Does that mean there's pirates that way or death? (I'm guessing death).

Fithelos isn't about to tangle with Fire Elementals and Lava Lizards. But. I guess since he's high or whatever, he would watch how it plays out.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 240):

I was more wondering, because you asked if there was a town on the way to Destard just before then.

The skull means it's a dungeon, so death is a good guess.

Fithelos isn't high, he's just in a great mood.


The lava lizard, being immune to fire, doesn't seem to be taking any damage from the elemental.  Even when the elemental comes down on the lizard with both "hands", the lizard doesn't seem to budge.  After a short time, the lizard begins consuming the flames from the elemental.  The elemental roars in pain and horror and the giant lizard sinks it's teeth into the chest.  The lizard's eyes glow bright, and with a deep breath, sucks in all of the flames from the elemental, leaving behind what looks like someone was able to sculpt a poor caricature of body out of lava while it was still hot and oozing.  The lizard looks at you and hisses, but stands it's ground.
You read so much about creatures of this area in the library, that you aren't sure exactly what was unique about the lava lizard, or, more importantly, what its weakness(es) may have been.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 241):

Fithelos is in a great mood? For like...several hours??

This feeling would be foreign to him. I don't think anyone knows what that really feels like.
Fithelos won't make any aggressive actions. He'll wave to the Lava Lizard and say

"Greetings."

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 242):
I've never taken LSD or anything like it, so here's the first result from a search. 

Most people find that they have an afterglow from their LSD experience that can last days or weeks, improving their mood and outlook and keeping them very open to others. Ideas and issues that you explored during the experience will have a new clarity too them.

Let's say 1 week since it was an extra long trip.
Also, plenty of people know what that feels like, because they take LSD.  I also knew a person one time that was happy no matter what was happening.  I hated him.

The lizard hisses at you again.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 243):

Fithelos hisses back.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 244):

It continues to stand its ground.  It appears it is not going to move unless it is distracted, you leave, or you make it move.

In reply to Twiz (msg # 245):

Fithelos will back away out of the cave and continue on toward Destard.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 246):

You leave the cave. From your last view of the lizard, he still staring at you.
As you walk northwest, you notice a small house in a clearing between the mountains. You hear a young bit playing and see a human man frying several fish over a pit.

Picture is for location. I didn't have time to add the house.
https://drive.google.com/file/...dp/view?usp=drivesdk

In reply to Twiz (msg # 247):

Fithelos will approach the man cautiously, making himself known before he gets to close as to not frighten the man. "Greetings stranger. Have room for one more at your fire?"
If the man seems anxious/paranoid/hostile Fithelos will continue on his way and not bother him.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 248):

When you get close, you see the boy using a wooden sword to hit a bundle of sticks fashioned to look like a person.
They both setup and look when you speak to them. When you step close enough, you feel like you start to walk through a viscous liquid.
I would have you roll, but afterglow...
As soon as you get through, the boy goes back to whacking the sticks. The father smiled, "There's not much, but I'll share what we can. What brings you to these woods?"

In reply to Twiz (msg # 249):

"I'm uh...journeying toward Destard. Never been there before, I'm traveling the lands to look upon them before I'm too old to get out of bed," Fithelos goes to sit next to the fire. "I am known as Fithelos. What do you call yourself?"

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 250):

"Going to slay a dragon? That's mighty bold of you. I'm Lomon. My boy defeating the orcs over there is Tomm." he flips over the fish. "What makes you think you'll succeed when so many others have failed?"

In reply to Twiz (msg # 251):

Fithelos blinks. And continues to blink for almost a full minute after Lomon asks him the question. "I, uh," he clears his throat. "I'm not sure slaying a dragon was on my to-do list. Observe, yes. Conversate, why not? Slay?" Fithelos' eyes narrow a bit as he looks into the fire. "Though I suppose if this creature is causing a form of... imbalance in the area, I suppose it must be dealt with in one way or another, no?"

"As for whether or not I succeed or fail..." Fithelos chews at the inside of his cheek. "Obviously, I am no dragonslayer. I just, uh, was traveling through the area." Shaking his head he asks, "About how old...er...big is this dragon?"

When he was asked to retrieve the Eye of a Dragon, Fithelos did not think it was literally an eye of a dragon. He was thinking it would be some kind of jewel or amulet that was kept in some dungeon. He knew there were dragons in Destard.
But he didn't think he was actually going to have to get an actual dragon eye.


Because I mean, what kind of god would send one dude on against a dragon?
He knows devils and demons who would get a kick out of such a task...
This message was last edited by the player at 14:10, Tue 25 June 2019.

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 252):



"Sorry.  I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable.  It's just that there's not really much else in Destard these days, and everyone else that has come through, has tried to take her out. She's been a 'nuisance' to say the least since her children hatched."

"She's several centuries old and large enough to crush my house if she sat on it.  The young are about 20.  I guess they cleaned out Destard a few years back and now the mother ravages some of the nearby camps and boats."

"What are you actually wanting to observe?"



Fithelos can interpret the request anyway he wants.  I did not think of it at the time, but technically, he probably would've assumed 'eye', but it wasn't spelled out. He could've heard 'I' or 'aye', etc. I mean, I don't know how you would retrieve one of those, but if that's how Fithelos wants to go about it, more power to him.

Actually, I kind of find this discovery for Fithelos rather hilarious.
He and I both literally though it was a gemstone or magical item. I kid you not. Like...I think at the time I was thinking like 'The Eye of Ra' or 'The Cat's Eye' or something.

It's all good. Fithelos is just now piecing stuff together. At most, he thought he'd have to sneak past a dragon, or that the area was known to have dragons in it at some point in time. Because he was by himself, it seriously never entered his mind it would be asked of him to get the literal eye of a dragon.

Now he's wondering why Balance would possibly want it.



"No apologies are necessary, Lomon, preparer of fish. You see at the time I was speaking with the...individual about Destard, when he mentioned dragons I thought he was speaking figuratively, symbolically or metaphorically. And I thought this because all to often his...type...usually tend to communicate in riddles, providing vague answers at best." Fithelos scratches the stubble forming around his jaw. "Truth is Lomon, I'm not very qualified to do much of anything these days. Lost my adventuring comrades years ago. Recently I was given unique powers; but not only did I use them at the wrong time--I made things worse for those I was traveling with..."

He shrugs. "I know not whether I'll succeed."

Fithelos looks over at Tomm, fighting the imaginary orcs. "Is it safe for you and the boy to be out here on your own? I only ask because almost everything I've run across since I've arrived here has been less than hospitable." The former monk leans forward to smell the cooking fish. "To be honest, there's part of me expecting you and your son will transform into monsters any second. Or I'll be poisoned if I eat this fish," he swallows. "That is to say, if you are open to share. I can pay." Fithelos pauses. "Only if there's enough, is what I mean to say. I won't rob you and your boy of your meal."

In reply to Fithelos (msg # 254):

"You're definitely different than the previous men that have come through here."

"We're safe here in the dome. My family has been here for generations. If you know how to deal with the wilderness, there's not many dangerous things to worry about. Too bad you're not much of the adventuring type, though.  Trinsic, instead of dealing with problems as usual, has pushed orcs toward us. We haven't been able to get to our campsite on the beach in a few weeks now.  Every time we try, there's a new scouting group looking for a new place to setup."

"We'll still share our meal though."
He plates the fish, pulls a chain mail bag out of the base of the fire with a small hook, pulls out a few potatoes to put on the plates, then hands you one.
"Food's ready Tomm!"