The group heading out the cave entrance into the wide-open Ravine follows a skinny trail up along the edge toward another entrance sixty-fice feet from ground level. (Entrance K See new Map)


OOC

Chelonia and Fenrick will instantly recall this entrance, Chelonia from her mentor's map, Fenrick from his personal experience of once standing in this exact location.

As Fenrick slowly entered back into the caves thru the entrance in front of them, he began to recognize that this was the apparent level where the ambush had occurred.

"This is the level we were on when the gnolls attacked.  I've monitored this entrance before.  The room that it happened in is that way" he exclaimed, pointing in the direction towards the temple (OOC see the map).

However, before getting to far in, he looked/listened for signs of nearby enemies.


OOC Rolls
13:48, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Fenrick Perception.

lago had followed alongside Fenwick and watched as he pointed out where he had previously been ambushed.  She didn't think she could hear anything out of the normal. Perception Check = 11 Her swords were drawn and ready.  She waited for instructions.

At Fenrick's insistence that they were currently close to where her mentor had been, the Tortle pulls out the piece of map that she possessed and orientated her piece of the map with the lay of the tunnels and entrance they'd just come in.

She too took a moment to listen and observe before proceeding.

---

22:16, Today: Chelonia rolled 13 using 1d20+4.  Perception.

Anders followed along behind the others. While he was supposedly keeping his senses alert to their surroundings and any signs of danger, he was also keeping an eye on several of his allies. Some of their reactions to the torture chamber had been what would likely be considered 'normal', but some...

He was a little worried about them. Time would tell.

22:54, Today: Anders Greyven rolled 4 using 1d20+2.  Perception.

Slowly with care, the group walks through the cave entrance, like every other hall you've walked down the dirt is packed and cut with timbers acting as supports. Until 15 feet the cave breaks through into a large polished stone central hallway branching North and South. The granite stones are masterfully cut and placed on the walls, floors, and ceiling with little to no cracks or gaps between each. The ceiling is nearly 20ft high with a slight arch the center stones acting as keystones to the smaller stones around it. The walls and floor are large 5x5 stones, the hallway spanning 30ft. Further examination of the ceiling reveals that the smaller blocks are arranged in a mosaic depicting the cosmology and the Gods. The walls though faded, are paintings of Tortles telling great tales of conquest, victory, bravery, and strength over the planes of power. More interestingly Lizardfolk is found not as foes, but as allies, standing shoulder to shoulder fighting. Lining the walls are candelabras with wax depleted and puddles of it on the floor under them. Torn and burnt tapestries pile along the edge of the walls and floor. There is only silence in the hallway other than the group's breathing and slight movements.

It is truly spectacular.

Fenrick was concerned at how quiet it was, gripping his sword a little tighter.  “It’s too quiet...” he whispered.

He then started to think about where people might be held on this level...

Chelonia stared at the images on the wall in disbelief...but then her thoughts went to the bones she'd gathered and placed in her pack...they were ancient and they were of both Tortle and Lizardfolk.  It was a reality that she didn't not want to admit...that the two races may once have been allies, but it certainly wasn't something she could dismiss given the evidence she was finding to support such a possible reality.

She would definitely need to bring her mentor back to this room; as well, she would need to share her findings regarding the bones of both races in the ravine outside of the cave's opening.

She was too focused on the images painted on the walls and ceiling to hear make out Fenrick's words.

Anders slowed his walk as he noticed Chelonia slow down. He followed her gaze and began to notice the mosaic, the faded paintings. Tortles and Lizardfolk. Interesting. He nodded to himself. I wouldn't have assumed that connection. Assuming that sort of thing, that would be like saying Lizardfolk are descended from dragons or something, just because they're both reptilian. He looked over another painting. But this is interesting.

He could barely keep himself from speaking his thoughts aloud. Only the potential for danger in being overheard kept him quiet as he looked over the paintings and the mosaic.

Walking around the corner and climbing a gently sloped floor the halls silent other than the padding of feet and breathing of the adventures. Getting into the next hallway looking south you see a chapel (room 55). This place is of red stone, the floor being a mosaic checkerboard of black and red. The south wall is covered by a huge tapestry that depicts a black landscape, barren trees, and unidentified-able but horrible black shapes in silhouette holding aloft a struggling human. A gray sky is torn by wisps of purple clouds, and a blood moon with a skull-like face on it leers down upon the scene. Four black pillars support the domed ceiling some 25’ overhead. Between these columns, just in front of the tapestry, is a stone altar of red-veined black rock, rough-hewn and stained brown with dried blood. Upon it are 4 ancient bronze vessels - a shallow bowl, a pair of goblets, and an ewer, a vase-shaped pitcher. They are also bloodstained but obviously worth a great deal of money.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:45, Tue 02 June 2020.

Fenrick gets the chills as he studies the tapestry and surrounding room.

"What the heck..." Fenrick says, the comment tapering off as he tries to make sense of everything.  What sort of creatures are trying to be depicted?  What past struggles could it be describing?

Fenrick tries to remember anything he can that might make this all make sense but nothing comes to mind.

10:20, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 4 using 1d20-1.  Fenrick history roll.

Fenrick waits back to see what the others decide to do, fearing what might happen if they disturb the containers.

Chelonia too looks over the area and tries to see if she can recall anything that might be of use...

---

19:28, Today: Chelonia rolled 22 using 1d20+2.  history check.
  - rolled an n20.

19:28, Today: Chelonia rolled 10 using 1d20+2.  religion check.

As Chelonia processed what she'd seen in this room they'd entered, the Tortle more tightly takes hold of her warhammer and shield.  Her eye's darting around as if worried something horrible was about to enter and attack them.  With her senses heightened she softly began to explain her trepidation to the others:

"This room is not of original architecture.  It appears to be a place of worship to the Demon Prince: Yeenoghu.  He is a demon with few ambitions beyond the visceral thrill of rending the soft flesh of his enemies and drinking deep the hot blood from their bodies. He craves nothing more than the utter defeat of all those who stand against him and is relentless in his pursuit of feeding the emptiness of his existence with the frantic screams of those he slays. Butchery is the province of Yeenoghu, and his single-minded pursuit of annihilation makes him a dangerous force in the infinite layers of the Abyss.

This would explain the torture room we found.  We should be very alert to our surroundings now and should make efforts to put distance between us and this place...

“Then let’s find your friend and get out of here...”. , Fenrick said plainly.  This was becoming more than he signed up for.

"Yes, let us  proceed. So any that we encounter from now on should be taken as a  serious  threat.  I plan on taking  an aggressive stance on anything we encounter."

Anders listened to what Chelonia had to say, actually turning away from his examinations to stare at her, a look of rapt fascination on his face as he took it all in. Afterwards, he smiled slightly at her and gave her a nod. "Thank you for sharing. Most enlightening. Even disturbing knowledge can sometimes lead to a beneficial result in the long-term, though I don't normally advocate deep diving in to dark forbidden lore for the average person.'

He followed after Fenrick when they were ready to move on.

Walking down the curved polished mosaic stone hallway the group enters into a large Temple Dedicated to Evil Chaos. This huge area has an arched ceiling some 30’ or more in height. The floor is of polished black stone which has swirling patterns of red veins through it. The walls behind the draperies, and the ceiling as well, are of dull black rock, while the west wall is of translucent red stone which is seemingly one-piece, polished to mirror-like smoothness. There are three stone altars to the west, the northernmost of pure black, the middle one of streaked red and black, the last of red with black flecks. At the western end of the temple area is a dais of black stone, a great throne resting on it. The chair is of bone; the ivory throne is set with gold and adorned with gems of red and black. The signs and sigils upon this seat are of pure chaos and evil. The other walls are covered by draperies of deep purple with embroidered symbols and evil sayings, done in scarlet and gold and black thread.

As soon as the party enters, black candles in eight great candelabras on either side of the place light magically, shooting forth a disgusting red radiance. Shapeless forms of purple, yellow, and green dance and sway on the western wall.

Bodies lie on each alter, upon the black alter a human body rests, upon the red and black alter a Tortle body rests, and on the red alter a Gnoll body rests. Sitting upon the throne is a pale thin human wrapped in blood-red robes with black smoke-like patterns reaching up his robes like fingers slowly moving and slithering like snakes. Resting on the throne by the man is an onyx black staff at the tip a spiraling basket holds a brilliantly red gem, the same color and stone are the wall behind him.

Not looking up at any of you, nor talking to anyone in particular, "They are still alive, just, the ritual requires they remain alive. As you can see the embroideries explain it all. For decades I have searched for the answers and now I have it." Looking up now his hallow eyes peering into each of your souls. "It has taken me some time to find this temple, it holds all the secrets," a smile spreads on his face, "The Tortle King Koopa, had discovered it centuries ago but feared the power. A fool, you could have had it all. Instead, he listened to the Lizardfolk Emperor Xian and they hid it, burying the power beneath the rubble, disguise further after the cataclysm." He gave a hallow small chuckle, "Funny really how Chaos always finds a way." Again he pauses, his eyes, and mind somewhere else, his voice changes from a casual conversation to anger and malice. "You think you will stop this, that is amusing, for it has already begun, and there is nothing you can do about it. I am one of many. I will not need to raise a finger to deal with you." With that he stands suddenly his hands spread above in the air holding aloft the staff as three black and red swirling beams strike the three bodies on the alters. Cries of pain from them ringing in the room. Doors to the right and behind you open up as several Gnolls engage you.

Five hunched over 7-foot tall hyena-headed humanoids with wicked serrated tipped spears 3 from behind, 2 in front. A large more broad-shouldered gnoll wielding a glaive and a necklace of ears, tongues, and eyeballs from all different races. And finally, a 9-foot tall monster his head and body covered in mismatched pieces of metal armor, around his neck and hanging from his belt like trophies heads of his victims shriveled and rotting. In his hands, he wields a bloodstained great axe.

OOC

Roll Initiative and take the first turn. You can also continue talking to the man if you wish before the battle begins. I will also allow that you could have cast a few spells before entering the temple, knowing that is where the ambush originally took place.


Gnolls 1-5 AC 15 HP 22
Gnoll Pack Lord 1 AC 15 HP 49
Gnoll DeathPledge 1 AC 17 HP 65
Human Demonologist 1 AC 17 HP ??
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:42, Thu 11 June 2020.

Fenrick, being a man of few words and genuinely concerned about the current prospects, has nothing really to say.

He glances over to his party seeing if the others have anything to say; unfortunately he misreads it and is caught off guard.   He takes hold of his necklace saying "Alsumu" once again and then heads straight for the large monster, hoping that if they can take it down quickly, the remaining monsters may have second thoughts.

As he reaches the monster, he takes a mighty swing with his sword but it easily glances off the monster's armor.

15:18, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 3 using 1d20+2.  Fenrick initiative.

15:20, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 11 using 1d20+6.  Fenrick attack roll.

OOC Hopefully the rest of the group rolls better.  Doesn't seem to like me today.

Gryphon moves with lightning like speed, quickly stepping  slightly to the side before unleashing a barrage of 3 bolts. The first flies true to target striking the Human that is upon the Black alter a terrific blow. Then he  proceeds to fire two bolts at the Gnoll pack-lord, the first misses while the second strikes  it but the bolt shatters upon impact on  its armor.

15:47, Today: Gryphon rolled 38 using 2d20+7 ((19,12)). Initiative so 26
15:54, Today: Gryphon rolled 21 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  Sharpshooter on  Human sacrificed guy.
15:55, Today: Gryphon rolled 24 using 1d6+18.
15:59, Today: Gryphon rolled 2 using 1d6.  Sneak damage.
15:58, Today: Gryphon rolled 14 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  Sharpshooter, Gloom  Stalker attack on  ac 15 Gnoll Lord.

15:56, Today: Gryphon rolled 8 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  BA Attack AC 15 Gnoll  Lord.

The Human on the alter  takes  26  points of  damage.

Anders listened to the red-robed human even as his gaze slowly swept him, the altars and the room. One eyebrow rose. "That...seems like a lot of 'reading' to do. Perhaps you would be willing to sum it up for us? What ritual is this and what result do you intend to bring about?"

Then the tenor of the situation changed and Gnolls came. He turned and cast a spell at the three behind him, "Aranea!" A mass of sticky webbing shot out, anchoring to the floor and to the wall behind them, in a diagonal sort of spray. He aimed to try and not only catch all three but make sure there would be some webbing between them and he, to slow them down if nothing else.

OOC
Active Spells: Mage Armor.

Action: Cast Web spell on the 3 Gnolls behind Anders, trying to catch all three and anchor from floor to the wall behind them. Dexterity Save DC 14 at the start of their turns or be restrained. Strength check DC 14 to break free, using up an action.

Movement: Step to the side, preferably behind Gryphon or a pillar to get some cover if possible.

14:47, Today: Anders Greyven rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:06, Thu 11 June 2020.

Chelonia nearly got lost in thought at having heard the cultist speak of King Koopa and Emperor Xian of the Lizardfolk but she snapped out of it, knowing that such contemplations would need to wait for a time when an imminent threat did not exist.  In an effort to improve her and her allies chances against this threat, she removed a red stone from her pouch and channeled her energy into it while uttering the phrase "ignis ardentem".

A red aura permeated from it, growing and encompassing as many of their adversaries as possible.

Chelonia casts Fairie Fire on as many of the cultists as possible, with a focus on targeting those not caught in the web that Anders had cast.

order of preference:

1. Human Demonologist
2. Gnoll Death Pledge
3. Gnoll Pack Lord
4. as many of the 5 Gnolls as possible

Faerie Fire
Each object in a 20-foot cube within range is outlined in blue, green, or violet light (your choice). Any creature in the area when the spell is cast is also outlined in light if it fails a Dexterity saving throw. For the duration, objects and affected creatures shed dim light in a 10-foot radius.
Any attack roll against an affected creature or object has advantage if the attacker can see it, and the affected creature or object can’t benefit from being invisible.

22:58, Today: Chelonia rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

This message was last edited by the player at 01:59, Sun 14 June 2020.

As the Gnolls join the fight a quick three bolts fly from the crossbow of Gryphon two dealing no damage to the gnolls, one striking the Human his screams ending on impact.

The large Gnoll wielding the glaive steps forward and takes two wicked strikes at Fenrick, the first strike is deflected by Fenricks shield, however, the weight of the blow knocks the shield aside as the quick second swing strikes him hard in the shoulder for 7 damage.

As the human on the alter dies, you hear the irritation from the Demonologist, but he continues his ritual the life getting sucked from the remaining two on the table.

Like a torch four of the gnolls, and the pack lord light up outlined in red.

Lago stepping up take two quick jabs at one of the gnolls both attacks landing dealing combined damage of 13.

Trying the best Anders can he attempts to stay hidden from the incoming attacks, after casting a web behind them on the three gnolls.

The powerful Human Demonlogist continues to suck the life from the two bodies on the alters, his face and hands becoming more youthful each second, behind him the red glass-like wall begins to gently swirl with black like smoke.

Making an attack against one of the Gnolls Cril is blocked by its spear.

The Webs of Anders catch one Gnoll and fight as he might is unable to move. The other Two move forward taking attacks on Chelonia, however both still barely in the webs. The spear is skillfully blocked by her, the second, however, finds its target dealing 10 damage. The Gnoll attacked by Lago strikes at her, hitting her for 7 damage. The Gnoll attacked by Cril attacks him, as he blocks the attack.

Fenrick with the aid of the Faerie Fire strike the Pack lord with his longsword dealing 12 damage. (I rolled with advantage for Fenrick and rolled damage to speed the post along, hopefully, this doesn't bother you Fenrick.)

Unable to join the fray the DeathPledge Gnoll Stands behind his Minions his Fateful Aura being felt by Fenrick, Cril, and Lago, if they make Death Saving throws in the aura they have Disadvantage.

OOC:

Initiative Order:
Gryphon
Pack Lord
Lair Action
Chelonia
Lago
Anders
Demonologist
Cril
Gnolls
Fenrick
DeathPledge

Synopsis:
Gryphon 0 Damage
Chelonia 10 Damage
Lago 7 Damage
Anders 0 Damage
Cril 0 Damage
Fenrick 7 Damage

Gnoll 1 Restained by Web AC 15 HP 22
Gnoll 2-3 attacking Chelonia AC 15 HP 22
Gnoll 4 Attacking Lago AC 15 HP 9
Gnoll 5 Attacking Cril AC 15 HP 22
Pack Lord Attacking Fenrick AC 15 HP 37
DeathPeldge Waiting AC 17 HP 65
Demonologist Doing ritual AC 17 HP ??

End Round 1
Start Round 2

Gryphon quickly decides to fire at the Caster  of the ritual now  that he has distrubed it with the killing of the human last round. The first bolt misses while the second strikes him a solid blow.


11:16, Today: Gryphon rolled 14 using 1d6+8.  Damage.

11:16, Today: Gryphon rolled 21 using 1d20+7.  Ba demonaligest.

11:16, Today: Gryphon rolled 8 using 1d20+7.  Attack demonaliges

Hopefully the one hit can make him lose concentration.

Anders frowned as two of the Gnolls were able to mostly evade his Web. That as annoying, but for the moment he focused on the Gnoll still trapped in the Web. He gestured and spoke the arcane phrase, "Fulmine Ignis!" and a bolt of fire leaped out at the Gnoll. He was hoping that the fire would damage the Gnoll and possibly light the web on fire around him, doing more damage, but he'd settle for either or.

10:38, Today: Anders Greyven rolled 18,4 using d20+6,1d10.  Firebolt on Web-Trapped Gnoll (and his Web square).

Fenrick cursed himself for his slow reaction, and he paid for it with a nice shoulder gash.  At least he was able to repay the favor though, thinking to himself "If you can't be with the one you want to fight, fight the one you're with"

Fenrick readies himself to riposte against the pack lord if the opportunity presents itself.

He then takes another mighty swing at the Pack Lord.  He is able to connect solidly with the Pack Lord due to the precision of the strike.

12:34, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 14 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 5,8.  Fenrick attack on Pack Lord.


OOC Fenrick will use 1st superiority die for precision strike, allowing him to roll 1d8 and add to attack roll.
12:36, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 4 using 1d8.  Fenrick Precision Strike sup die.

12:38, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 20 using 2d8+6 with rolls of 7,7.  Fenrick damage (with poison).

OOC IF the Pack Lord misses with his attack, Fenrick will use his reaction and another superiority die to Riposte (not sure if it requires him to miss both or just one).

When a creature misses you with a melee attack, you can use your reaction and expend one superiority die to make a melee weapon attack against the creature. If you hit, you add the superiority die to the attack's damage roll.


12:42, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 21 using 2d20+6 with rolls of 15,5.  Fenirck riposte roll if needed.
12:42, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 6 using 1d8.  Fenrick riposte superiority roll (if needed).
12:43, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 19 using 2d8+12 with rolls of 1,6.  Fenrick damage roll for riposte if needed.

Two gnolls turn toward Chelonia.  One attacks with a spear that she easily deflects, but in so doing she'd left herself open to an attack from the other.  Raising her warhammer aloft she strikes down upon the gnoll that had caused her harm

---

Hits AC 17 for 9 damage.

19:07, Today: Chelonia rolled 9 using 1d8+4.  warhammer damage.

19:07, Today: Chelonia rolled 17 using 1d20+6.  Warhammer .

Gryphon Hits the Demonologist, however he is able to keep his concentration on the ritual (He rolled a 16).

The Gnoll pack lord makes an overhead chop that glances off the shield of Fenrick opening up the Gnoll for a Riposte, his sword digging deep into the underarm of the Gnoll, (dealing 19 Damage), taken aback from the unexpected counter-attack the Gnolls second attack is weak and again is blocked, easily. Angry The gnoll lets out a howl, the gnoll to his right takes a bite at Fenrick, however, the bite only tastes the air.

The Swirling black in the Red Glass wall grows bigger, in the center behind the Demonologist the black begins to turn purple, and figures can be seen moving looking on beyond the purple glow.

Chelonia is able to deal good damage to one of the attacking Gnolls, her Warhammer smashing into the rips of the one and is able to hear the cracking of bone. (Dealing 9 damage)

With two more expertly placed attacks Lago is able to finish off the Gnoll in front of her (Dealing 13 Damage with two attacks), to realize, her victory may be short-lived as the DeathPledge Gnoll can now enter the fray.

Unable to move Anders fires a ball of fire striking the Gnoll and lighting the Web ablaze. (4 damage from Firebolt, and 6 fire from the web)

Demonologist, you hear the Human cry out louder than before, and then with the last breath, dies, now only one beam is presently cast on the Tortle.

Cril calling upon the divine power he strikes his longsword in the Gnoll critically hitting him all the radiant power burns through the gnoll and decapitated him. (Dealing 26 Damage)

The two gnolls attack Chelonia stab at her with all their might. However one misses and the other hits. (3 damage dealt) The that was set on fire does not move to let the web burn. Instead, he takes his spear and throws it and Anders, but it clatters to the ground falling short of him.

After blocking two attacks and putting on a counterattack, Fenrick lands another mighty blow chopping the right sword arm off the gnoll at his forearm, as the arm falls the ground poison seeps into the wound green veins quickly making their way up to its arm, the veins spread to its head its eyes turning green and falls dead at his feet. (Dealt 20 damage killing blow)

The Deathpledge moves up his Greataxe firmly in his grasp he gives a mighty swing at Lago, what he sees as the weakest, and easiest to dispatch. The devastatingly brutal attack tears into Lago, blowing through all her defenses. (Dealing 22 Damage) Her body falls limp prostrate and unconscious from the attack. Letting out a raging roar, and swings once more at Fenrick, not expecting the speed from the brutal creature Fenrick gets his sword up in time but not in a good position as the axe tears through his defense. (Dealing 13 Damage)

OOC:

Initiative Order:
Gryphon
Pack Lord
Lair Action
Chelonia
Lago
Anders
Demonologist
Cril
Gnolls
Fenrick
DeathPledge

Synopsis:
Gryphon 0 Damage
Chelonia 13 Damage total
Lago Unconscious
Anders 0 Damage
Cril 0 Damage
Fenrick 20 Damage total

Gnoll 1 Waiting AC 15 HP 12
Gnoll 2 Attacking Chelonia AC 15 HP 13
Gnoll 3 Attacking Chelonia AC 15 HP 22
Gnoll 4-5 Dead
Pack Lord Dead
DeathPledge AC 17 HP 65
Demonologist Doing Ritual AC 17 HP 14/??

End Round 2
Start Round 3

Gryphon once again fires two bolts at the demonologist both of which miss.

20:50, Today: Gryphon rolled 14 using 1d20+7.  bA attack demonoligist.

20:50, Today: Gryphon rolled 12 using 1d20+7.  attack demonoligist.

Chelonia continued her assault upon the gnoll she'd already struck...but missed.

---

22:21, Today: Chelonia rolled 13 using 1d20+6.  Warhammer .

Fenrick has little time to recover after slaying the pack lord as he quickly grimaces in pain as the Deathpledge follows up with a hefty strike.

However, Fenrick now notices the wall, and realizes that that if something isn't done quickly to stop...whatever's going on, they're going to have a lot bigger fish to fry then a few gnolls.

Seeing little other choice in the matter, Fnerick swiftly disengages the Deathpledge and makes his way towards the demonologist. (Disengage action then movement).

Knowing they are short on time, he finds a way to strike at the demnologist (Action Surge).  Luckily he is precise again, and it strikes the demonologist, poisoning him in the process as well.

Striking the demonologist, Fenrick begins to feel a second wind coming on as well. (Second wave as bonus action)

21:27, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 13 using 1d20+6.  Fenrick attack roll on demonologist (action surge).
21:27, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 5 using 1d8.  Precision roll (superiority die).
<Orange>21:30, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 17 using 2d8+6.  Fenrick damage roll - demonologist.


21:31, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 11 using 1d10+3.  Fenrick second wind HP roll.

Anders frowned as he saw Lago fall, but then gave a little bit of a hop when a speak was chucked his way! Luckily for him, it fell short. Still, he noted that two of the...victims? sacrifices?...were dead, which meant the ritual was likely close to being finished.

He drew in a deep breath and turned his attention to the demonologist instead. He gestured while holding his staff, uttered a different arcane phrase, "Frigus Tactus!"

He then began walking towards Lago to try and stabilize or heal her before she died.

11:48, Today: Anders Greyven rolled 17,1 using d20+6,1d8.  Chill Touch on demonologist.

Gryphon fires to bolts at the Demonologist, distracted by the lumbering Gnoll that just downed his ally misses his mark both bolts flying wide.

The swirling vortex behind the Demonologist gets wider the shapes more clear, he is summoning demons, if the battle not already urgent, gets more so.

Chelonia's hammer is deflected by the gnolls guard.

Lago Death saves at Disadvantage because of DeathPledge aura, her will to live pushes her. (she rolled a 10)

Anders hits the evil human for 1 damage forcing a Concentration to save, (rolled 18), however, his concentration does not break.

Still grasping the staff the black and red ritual sucking the life from the Tortle.

Cril channeling another radiant attack strikes the DeathPledge dealing 25 damage.

The fire spreads to the edge of the webs dealing 3 damage to the two gnolls in front of Chelonia. They both attack her, both she is able to deflect with her shield.

Like at true Battlemaster Fenrick controls the field of batter dipping out of combat and hits the Evil Human, (Con Save rolled 8, damage dealt 17), for the first time in this combat the screaming of the tortle ends only to moans, as the ritual ends the Human looks to Fenrick his eyes solid black, "YOU DARE INTERUPT MY RITUAL!" he screams as if for the first time realizing you all still there and not dead.

The DeathPledge attacks Cril, blinded by the radiant light its first attack swings over Cril's head, however, the second attack finds its mark dealing 17 damage.


Initiative
Gryphon
Pack Lord
Lair Action
Chelonia
Lago
Anders
Demonologist
Cril
Gnolls
Fenrick
DeathPledge

Synopsis:
Gryphon 0 Damage
Chelonia 13 Damage total
Lago Unconscious
Anders 0 Damage
Cril 17/23 Damage
Fenrick 9 Damage total

Gnoll 1 Waiting AC 15 HP 12
Gnoll 2 Attacking Chelonia AC 15 HP 10
Gnoll 3 Attacking Chelonia AC 15 HP 19
DeathPledge AC 17 HP 40
Demonologist Doing Ritual AC 17 HP 32/??

End round 3
Start round 4
This message was last updated by the GM at 22:32, Fri 26 June 2020.

Anders let out a small sigh, his help wasn't doing much but at least the ritual had been successfully interrupted, that was what mattered. He turned his attention back to the Gnolls. Chelonia was trying to fend off two at once, and the other was going to be freed from the webs at any moment if it didn't die first.

He gripped his staff and gestured towards the gnoll attacking Chelonia that was more wounded. "Fulmine Ignis!" and another bolt of fire streaked out at the gnoll.

11:21, Today: Anders Greyven rolled 20,5 using d20+6,1d10.  Fire Bolt at Gnoll 2.

Gryphon losses two bolts at the gnolls attacking Chelonia, only one hits  but it is such a well placed hit that it kills it instantly.

Attack and BA were on Gnoll which was outlined  by faerie fire so advantage.
Gnoll 3 takes 29 points of damage.
13:50, Today: Gryphon rolled 10,19 using 2d6,1d6+18.  Damage.

13:49, Today: Gryphon rolled 22 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  BA attack sharpshooter gnoll 3.

13:49, Today: Gryphon rolled 11 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  Sharpshooter with adv on gnoll 3.

Fenrick hopes to quickly follow-up his strike on the demonologist and finish him off once and for all.

He takes a swing but the sword fails to find its target.

22:33, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 14 using 1d20+6.  Fenrick attack roll - Demonologist.

Chelonia yet again attempts to strike the nearest gnoll with her warhammer, but misses terribly.  She is going to have to do some additional training provided she survives this encounter.

---

13:03, Today: Chelonia rolled 9 using 1d20+6.  warhammer.

Gryphon in his style shoots and kills one Gnoll attacking Chelonia.

The Dark Portal opening behind the Evil Man stops growing, and rather then a living image looks only like a picture on the rock.

Chelonia Misses with her Warhammer.

Lago Fails a death save (that's 1 save, 1 Fail)

Anders deals 5 damage to Gnoll 2

Looking about, realizing what state his minions are in, and the state he is in, like just noticing his injuries. He casts a spell a portal opens a black and purple void, "This will not be the end, you got lucky." With that, he steps through the portal, and with a snap, the portal and he are gone.

Sadly Cril's attack swings and misses the DeathPledge.

After her huge miss, the Gnoll takes advantage and plunges his spear into her dealing 10 damage. The other Gnoll moves forward to also attack her but misses his attack.

Fenrick swings and misses the evil human as he teleports just in time to avoid the attack.

The Gnoll DeathPledge continues his on slot of blows, under the weight of the blows of the Greataxe Cril is able to avoid direct damage. But is  Driving to his knees. Luckily to be alive.

Initiative
Gryphon
Pack Lord
Lair Action
Chelonia
Lago
Anders
Demonologist
Cril
Gnolls
Fenrick
DeathPledge

Synopsis:
Gryphon 0 Damage
Chelonia 23 Damage total
Lago Unconscious
Anders 0 Damage
Cril 17/23 Damage
Fenrick 9 Damage total

Gnoll 1 Waiting AC 15 HP 12
Gnoll 2 Attacking Chelonia AC 15 HP 5
Gnoll 3 Dead
DeathPledge AC 17 HP 40
Demonologist Teleported

End round 4
Start round 5

Anders glowered at the disappeared demonologist. That was annoying. On the other hand, there was still much to do. Both Chelonia and Cril looked much the worse for wear, but Anders worried about what might happen if he tried to move in close enough to touch either of them.

For the moment, he steeled his will and focused on trying to help take down the Gnolls as quickly as possible. He turned his attention to the Gnoll attacking Chelonia and trusted that Gryphon and Fenrick might be able to help out Cril.

He gripped his staff and moved it around in a strange fashion before pointing it at the Gnoll on Chelonia and uttered the same arcane phrase once more, "Fulmine Ignis!"

17:11, Today: Anders Greyven rolled 25,6 using d20+6,1d10.  Fire Bolt at Gnoll.

Gryphon fires two bolts at the Deathpledge gnoll both of which miss.

Chelonia wasn't having any luck with her war hammer.  The only consolation was that every attack against her was an attack not made against an ally.  She'd taken several hits though and was worse for ware by this point.  She pulled out a piece of turquoise and allowed the healing of her heart chakra to flow through it.  She then placed the stone against her skin and the stored energy quickly began repairing some of her injuries.

---

Action: cure wounds

23:38, Today: Chelonia rolled 10 using 1d8+4.  Cure wounds on self.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:50, Sun 28 June 2020.

[Language unknown: N%$ n!], Fenrick curses loudly at himself for allowing the demonologist to get away.

Quickly assessing the situation, he decides he needs to help out with the deathpledge, as it seems to be taking its toll on the other group members.

He runs over to the deathpledge and takes a might swing at it, and luckily he is precise enough to strike it, poisoning it in the process (OOC maybe, needs save roll)
.
22:57, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 16 using 1d20+6.  Fenrick attack on Deathpledge.
22:57, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 7 using 1d8.  Fenrick Precision Strike sup die.
22:58, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 21 using 2d8+6.  Fenrick damage on deathpledge.

OOC I'm out of superiority dice, so hopefully the roller starts playing nice.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:45, Sat 27 June 2020.

Gryphon misses all attacks
Chelonia Heals her self
Lago 1 fail 2 save death saves
Anders kills Gnoll
Cril lay on hands heals self for 15
Gnoll hits Chelonia dealing 7 damage
Fenrick hits Deathpledge for 21 damage
DeathPledge misses the first attack, hits second against Cril dealing 15 damage, he hangs on barely.


I hate doing this to you, normally I am better detailed and story, but to get out around quick here it is. see OOC thread for more details to wrap up adventure.

Initiative
Gryphon
Chelonia
Lago
Anders
Cril
Gnoll
Fenrick
DeathPledge

Synopsis:
Gryphon 0 Damage
Chelonia 7 Damage this round
Lago Unconscious
Anders 0 Damage
Cril 22/23 Damage
Fenrick 0 Damage

Gnoll 1 Waiting AC 15 HP 12
Gnoll 2 Dead
DeathPledge AC 17 HP 19

End round 5
Start round 6

Gryphon fires two  bolts at the deathpledge only one striking  it a serious blow.

01:29, Today: Gryphon rolled 5 using 1d6.  Sneak attack damage.

01:29, Today: Gryphon rolled 10 using 1d6+8.  Damage.

01:27, Today: Gryphon rolled 16 using 1d20+7.  BA attack death pledge.

01:27, Today: Gryphon rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  attack death pladege.

15 damage , I get a sneak  attack because I have an ally which is within 5' of it whom is not incapacitated and I do not have disadvantage.

(OOC Since I'm so late in the turn order I'm not exactly sure anything will be left for me to do by the time it gets to me, so I'll list the order in which I would act depending on the situation)

1.) Attack: Deathpledge if alive, then gnoll if alive (which misses both)
08:50, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 10 using 1d20+6.  Fenrick attack roll.

2.) Stabalize anyone who needs it, with Lago as priority (which also failed)
08:52, Today: Fenrick (Fen) Uther rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Medicine check to stabalize  if needed.

(OOC) I guess if those two aren't available yet an action is still needed let me know.  However, we're in deep trouble for these skill checks, the roller hates me apparently.)

Anders looked around, noted that tide was turning. It had been a little even before the other 'mage type' had fled - which was still very irksome. He tried to take his frustration out on one of the remaining Gnolls, but while the bolt of fire DID strike them...it was a very weak fire bolt. He let out a small sigh, lips pressed in to a thin line.

18:44, Today: Anders Greyven rolled 22,2 using d20+6,1d10.  Fire Bolt at Deathpledge (or Gnoll if Pledge is dead).

In desperation as she nears deaths door, Chelonia swings out with a primal viciousness that is contrary to her normal calm demeanor.  She manages to drive the warhammer into the gnolls shoulder and she can hear bone cracking and a pop out of its socket.

---

22:55, Today: Chelonia rolled 7 using 1d8+4.  warhammer damage.

22:54, Today: Chelonia rolled 24 using 1d20+6.  Warhammer vs AC 15.

Dispatching the last two gnolls, the group explores the room. The Tortle on the alter is barely alive, and Chelonia instantly recognizes him as her mentor. The reunion is short-lived as he passes out from the ritual he just took part in. With little training, all of you notice that the Tortle is extremely old. Fenrick and Chelonia see that he has aged many many years since last they saw him, the Ritual wasn't just killing them, it was sucking the very life from their bodies.

The Red wall that was getting turned into a portal is slowly fading back to his brilliant red, as it fades closer examination reveals it was indeed going to be a portal to the Abyss as outlines of demons are static like a picture frozen on the surface of the stone. Luckily they were able to break the concentration of the Human. But, if he tried this once, he will probably try this again. The thought of a portal opening to the Abyss shots goosebumps down your spins. After a brief pause and thought the group comes back to reality.

Searching the area the group discovers a room off the ritual chamber in it is a bed, desk, bookshelves, and a chest. In the chest is a mound of gold, silver, and copper. Looking through the books and papers of research most of the languages not understood by anyone here. Still curious to understand something of the ritual the group gathers the papers and many of the books, especially those on the desk and in languages understood by them.

Making transportation easier as under the desk they discover a bag of holding. Nothing is in the bag but quickly is filled with their loot.

Also discovered on the desk is a Rod of power, at the tip a green gem adores it the top half of the gem is masterfully chiseled and polished while the other half is untouched and melded into the cold iron the of the rod, at the end is a skull depicting a fiend. One last discovery in the desk drawer is a pair of slippers made from the silks of spiders.

Finishing their search of the area the group decides to quickly make their way out, and once at the keep can look closer at the papers, books and other loot gathered together. Also, the group takes the Greataxe used by the Death pledge, a masterwork quality great-axe, and possibly magical.

Lago is alive, barely.

(OOC)
The Skill challenge begins. PM your skills and I will post when I have the results.

I have to make a correction as a DM, the distance originally traveled from the Keep to the caves was incorrect, It is shorted, it is only a Days journey.

Also, when you all arrive at the Keep you will level up to 4th level. Now, I know that was quick leveling, but leveling up will slow down now. I normally like to get to the 4th level quickly and then slow down.


This message was last edited by the GM at 17:57, Sat 04 July 2020.

Anders let out a sigh as the gnolls finally fell. He watched the red wall intently as the portal closed, stepping closer to it, looking both disgusted and fascinated at the same time somehow. "Fascinating. I am gladdened that we stopped this ritual, my allies! That looked like the Abyss on the other side." He shook his head.

He walked over to Chelonia, "Do you need some healing?" He examined the older-looking Tortle a bit after that, but didn't get too close as he didn't want to crowd Chelonia as she seemed to recognize him.

He looked excited about the papers and books, though a little frustrated that he couldn't read them. "I'll be able to cast a ritual to allow me to read them...but later, when we're not in potential danger still."

He hesitated. "I can heal Lago some and hopefully she will then be able to walk under her own power but otherwise we appear to have two people that potentially need to be carried or helped along. Any ideas?" After that he reached down and cast Cure Wounds on Lago to try and get her up and running...or at least up and walking.

OOC: Mostly just an RP fluff post and reactions. I hope that's okay.

As the last of the gnolls fell, Fenrick let out a sigh of relief.  He hadn't had that much action since his military days.  Luckily his skills hadn't faded too much.

He walked over to check on the Tortle, confirming it had been the man that had hired him.  It was only now that the magnitude of his failure had hit him, now having a chance to reflect on what had happened.  He wanted to say something, anything, to apologize but nothing seemed adequate so he simply kept to himself.

Fenrick helped with the collecting of the papers and loot, a solemn look on his face.  He realized that his time as a merc, at least in this area, was over once word of his failure spread; no one hires someone who isn't capable and 1 error can be enough to ruin your reputation.  Being a mercenary was hard enough work to find, what was he going to do now?

These thoughts all filtered thru his head as they readied themselves to (likely?) head back to the Keep before...what?  Going their separate ways?  Following up on the plans of the human that had eluded them?  He wasn't part of the group to start, so he wasn't sure if the others would even want him to stick around.

All Fenrick has is questions, with no answers easily found...

Chelonia had rushed to her mentors side as the battle had ended, everything else in the room was lost to her sight as her focus was solely upon him.  She had no magic left in order to heal him, but even if she did, it was clear to her that it was not physically injury that was causing his life to ebb.  A body can be healed over and over, but when age has set in whether by natural means or by a means as unnatural as the demonology that had been performed here this day...there was no escaping that...at least not with what they had available to them in this moment.  She would hold him until he passed so that he would not leave this world alone.

It was then that Anders spoke and she replied, "Yes dear Anders, if you have it to spare, I could most definitely use it...and yes, if you are able to assist Lago I would greatly appreciate it."

After gathering together all the loot and those injured the group devises a plan to get out of the caverns. They map out the path and put together a plan of action. Each knowing, getting out quickly will get them out safe. Walking back down the same hallway and going to the same exit they came in on, Fenrick looks up and sees a familiar pile of rubble...wait, isn't that where I and the original archeology team came in at? It sure was. Using Grappling hooks and rope left from the original team the group is able to climb up and out of the Caves of Chaos Safely, now on top of them, and are able to avoid traveling back through.

The Group begins its Daylong journey back down the mountain finding a trade road used to travel North into the Land of Giants, beyond the Sverdkyst borders. Heading South the group is able to reach the Keep Just after the Sun's Set

OOC

We had 2 Critical Rolls and some other awesome uses of skills. Great job guys, 1 failure before success.

There will be one more post on this thread, between Chelonia and her mentor, coming soon. Otherwise, we will move into Chapter 2 Scene 1. Congrats on the completion of Chapter 1 and that adventure. Many more to come. As a DM I have learned a lot from this Chapter and hopefully will improve going forward.

Everyone levels to 4, with reward of 1,800XP. This will be the last "fast level" leveling will slow down from here on.

Turning her attention back to her mentor, Father Tartaruga, following her words with Anders she feels the life force of this man who had been as a father to her, yet much more than that: a father yes, but also a teacher, a councilor, a spiritual guide, and most importantly...a friend.  She held his lifeless body for what was likely only a few minutes yet felt to her like an eternity while she cried and grieved over his loss.

As she was about to allow herself to let go of the broken vessel that had held his life force there was a metaphorical knock at the proverbial door to her mind.  It was a gentle 'presence' that possessed all of the emotional qualities that she identified the man as being.  Her guard down, she allowed that door to swing open in order to discover what it was that was seeking entry into her thoughts.

There before her stood an apparition of them man, not in a physical sense but rather as if by coalesced energy in the shape that the man had taken up while living.  His smile and the pleasant warmth of the energy that radiated from this astral form told her that he was truly at peace with what had just happened.  That the chance to be with her, even if in his afterlife was what he'd needed to become at peace with what had happened.

As they 'stood' there, within the confines of her mind, face to face, her mentor took an astral hand and placed it upon her astral forehead.  It was then that she felt as if she'd been struck by a bolt of lightning as information began being 'downloaded' into her brain.  The things the man shared with her came in images and ideas which she translated into thoughts and stored them for future use:

1. The Demonologist isn’t the leader he is but a pawn. He had been able to overhear voices. One had an accent from the southern Per-Atum Empire. He is somewhere in a lost city in the Sea of Sand. The second voice was from someone North in the Giant Lands. In one of the Fire Giant Fortresses.

2. They mean to create an elixir of life and become Gods overthrowing the current ones. The demons have promised them power and servants.

3. From his discovery, the Tortles and Lizardfolk were allies before and during the second planes war. They had discovered the secret to the elixir of life, the Lizardfolk wanted to use it and Bring back the ancient God Lang Wang. The Tortles disagreed with them. That is all he could discover before he was taken captive.

4. He shared with her the divine rituals to not only remove his shell so that it might be bestowed upon a future new acolyte entering into their clerical order but also the ability to cast a spell upon his physical body in order to preserve it long enough to be returned to her people so that he could be posthumously made a saint of the order and properly buried within the churches cemetery.

With the information imparted upon her the astral form of her mentor leaned forward and, where his hand had previously touched her forehead, kissed her as a father saying good bye for the very last time.  As tears rolled down her eyes his energy retreated from within her mind and the energy of his presence slowly dissipated until she came out of the trance she'd been in and found herself back among the living...among her allies.  Given that none were staring at her and questioning what was wrong, she could only assume that all of that had been exchanged between the two in but a mere fraction of a moment.

She then, with a sense of strength (where she would have thought weakness and despair would have been given what she'd just lost), gathered her allies around her, shared what she had learned and made plans for their return to the keep.  Before they left she performed the ritual to magically remove Father Tartaruga's shell and then cast the spell to preserve the man's shell-less body.

Once back at the keep she provided Lago (the only person she trusted with a task as important as transporting her mentor and his shell back to her people) and Cril (to protect and assist Lago in her task) instructions to leave as soon as possible and that she would pray for her safety on this mission.