You find yourself on the lush High Road that connects the Northern Portion of the Sword Coast to the Southern Portion. All of you are riding in the wagon and is more spacious then you had anticipated. Although the ride is not luxurious it is not uncomfortable. Other travelers are on the road with you and you feel somewhat safe traveling the High Road being a higher foot traffic area than some of the frontier roads. You think that it would be foolish given the number of people traveling that bandits would risk an attack.


OOC: How do you travel: Who's driving the team, are you taking shifts maybe you stop and camp at night?
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:17, Fri 03 Apr 2020.

[OOC]  I am skilled with animal handling, and have no issue driving.

Are we playing the bard as an NPC/arrow sponge?  Propose him and the ranger as outwalkers, unless that makes our pace too slow.

I also do a cursory inspection of the load, to make sure it is secured and there is nothing surprising back there.
Recommend we camp down an hour or so before twilight, feed and care for horses, and make camp about 200 yards off the road in locations that are defensible, and offer a vantage point for watches, if any.

[OOC]  Best I can reckon, it is 45 miles to the Phandalin trail, and a total of 75 miles from Neverwinter to Phandalin.

I assume we can make the crossroads in 3-4 days, assuming good weather and no interruptions.

As there was no undue urgency, don't see any reason to cut the apex of the paths.

Strangly enough when you had gone to collect the wagon and supplies the musical fellow was no where to be found.  Perhaps he had finally met that special lady and spent his evening drinking away those coins he haggled for. But when you had pulled out of the gates the bard had still not shown. You are saddened because you feel his musical talent could have been an asset to pass the time on the high road. Alas you push your wagon on at a trot. An easy pace for the powerful beasts but still faster than abything you could manage on foot.

Making camp before twilight you push off the High Road as far as you can get with the wagon which is only about 15 meters before trees and terrain begin to make it difficult and tou start to lose traveling time. The evening is quite though but your bellies are warmed with whatever liquor you were all able to ppo urchase before leaving the city. Again the evening passage is difficult without the song and music of the bard.

Despite the terrain becoming more difficult, Imbert is able to lead the party a little further into the woods than you would have though possible.  After the animals are seen to, he heads off into the woods and returns just after full dark with a few roots, leaves and berries.

[OoC]; 08:59, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 18 using 1d20+4.  Survival.  My Natural Explorer terrain is forest.  Survival check for a good campsite, foraging and looking for tracks while exploring.

Bandalor observes the area, taking lead from Imbert and choosing a perch that affords as much view as possible of approaching danger.

13:09, Today: Bandolous Armonthor rolled 18 using 1d20 Intelligence against a Nature Check:  to recall lore about terrain, plants and animals, the weather, and natural cycles.

Unpacking some field kitchen from his pack, he offers "I have some Calishite spices that should season road rations nicely."

You set camp and collect the evening meal. The Horses get settled and the provisions are handed out. The camp fire is ablaze and reminds you of what it is like to be on the open road yet again. Then a figure appears standing on the edge of your fire light. There is a glint of light in his eyes. Is it supernatural or is it a reflection of the fire itself. He looks around the camp for a moment as if counting how many are in your party. He looks wanting at your water skins, then from under his robes emerge four dressed rabbits.

"Mind if I share your fire and your booze for the evening friends. I have rabbits I can contribute to the meal," the man says looking less supernatural now since you first laid eyes on him moments ago and obviously awaiting your answer.

Looking to the rest of the group, Bandalor is inclined to invite the stranger closer to the fire.  Years on the march have made him sympathetic to misfits, weirdos, and other castoffs...  especially after a skin of wine.

22:36, Today: Bandolous Armonthor rolled 10 using 1d20+3 ((7)).

Studying the newcomer, Bandalor asks:  "Well met, Friend.  Where would the light of morning find your recent travels?"

"Imbert Keenbinder." he introduces himself.  "It is always best to honest folk to gather in number on the road.  Please join our fire."

"Well met friends!  I am Jaskier the travelling bard on my way to Phandalin.  I'm seeking fame and adventure after my last companion tired of my friendship and stranded me without horse or drink a few days ago.  I'm afraid I'm a better entertainer than chef.  Would someone like to prepare the rabbits while I play some tunes on my flute?
This message was last edited by the player at 21:42, Sat 04 Apr 2020.

“Well met, Jaskier!  Bandalor, long ere of Tethyr.  Always looking for a sunrise, but usually sleeping in.”  He states sardonically, and pushes forward his wineskine with one hand, and indicating his Lathanderite symbol with the other.

Reaching for the rabbits, “Happy to prepare these, but mayhap we share tales of the road rather than pipe tunes? “

Gwen had arrived for the departure on time, but slightly rushed and more than slightly hung over. She wore a full length travelling cape with a high collar and an absurdly oversized cavalier's hat with a gray plume. Under it all, her favorite purple velvet doublet was freshly steamed, and she'd picked up a new linen blouse, had her boots polished, and crammed her satchel with cheeses, sausages, and several bottles whose wax-sealed necks protruded.

She had passed the hours of the first travel day rattling on about obscure trivia, recounting tales of old Neverwinter from her grandpop, and posing questions to the group about their hopes and dreams for Phandalin. Surely some of the group was at least a little relieved when she announced that with her Gnomish night vision she'd take first watch after dark and then promptly fell asleep under her gigantic hat.

[OoC: back to present tense...]

When Bandalor and Imbert welcome the stranger into the circle of firelight, she shrugs, but eyes the rabbits hungrily and starts improvising a spit. She joins in on the round of pleasantries with a "nice to meetcha, I'm Gwen!" but perks up her interest when Bandalor turns the talk to the road.

"Well, Jaskier... Phandalin isn't exactly a premiere travel destination... from what I hear, it's a little shabby and too far from everywhere. What's taking you that direction?" She props herself against a log and starts filling a long-stemmed pipe with pungent tobacco, realizing that it's a question she hasn't really asked of anyone in the group.

[OoC: Welcome Jaskier! Also, sorry for the weekend lull... I'll be more consistent M-F.]

Bandalor grabs a rabbit and a spit from Gwen and Jaskier with a directness that is almost robotic.  Flipping the rabbit carcass, he degloves it with an offhand jerk, and then impales the game on the spit without thought.

“The High Road was a mess.  Endless skies of demons and nether beings…  no rhyme nor reason to who was picked from the ground, torn ahalf, and cast back down in a mist of gore…”

Bandalor seasons the rabbit with his Calishite spices, and looks about for the wineskin he offered Jaskier.

“Mattered not.  Whether the sun rose or fell, the slaughter was endless.”

Taking a pull on the skin, he realizes the darkness for his tone.

“Anyway..  nothing like that here to Phandalin, ‘er we’d have heard about it.”

Chastened, returns to quiet and sees to the rabbits on the spit.

Jaskier chuckles as he returns his flute to his pack.  "Yes I 'spose we wouldn't want to attract any nefarious rogues that might lurking nearby in the forest."  Jaskier settles in beside the fire, fidgeting with some fraying leather on his hunting knife.  At the mention of Phandalin and its "shabby" reputation, Jaskier flashes a mischievous smile.  "Ah come now lady Gwen, even towns like Phandalin offer opportunity and adventure, if one knows where to look.  As for why Phandalin is my current destination, seems as good a place as any to begin the search.  I make no plans beyond the immediate and let chance dictate the order of the day.  What brings you all to Phandalin?  How long have you all been companions?"

Bandalor knifes off cooked hunks of coney, and sprinkles rust colored powder on each before handing them around to the party.

“Just met this lot back in Neverwinter.  Long heard the glories of the city.  Didn’t appreciate how low the gods had slung her.  If not for Phandalin, where’d you like to see, Gwen?  Ever roam as far as Waterdeep?”

Takes another pull off the wineskin, and tends to the rest of the rabbits.

"We have been charged with seeing these goods safe to Phandalin." Imbert states, ignoring Bandalor's ramblings.

You all enjoy an easy evening of rabbit conversation and drink but head to bed early. As a whole the group gets up early to be on the Triboar trail before the day is out. THe priest grumbles a but at having to get up so early but eventually cheers as he gets some caffeine into his body. The bard requests to tag along since you all seem to be headed in the same direction.

You all set off South along the High Road. Idle chat passes the time and eventually you make it to the Triboard Trail and follow it east.

You have been on the Triboar Trail for several miles and as you come around a bend, you spot two dead horses sprawled about fifty feet ahead of you, blocking the path. Each has several black-feathered arrows sticking out of it. The woods press close to the trail here, with a steep embankment and dense thickets on either side.

Bandalor brings his mace to the ready, while eyeing the embankments for signs of an ambush.

[OOC] Readying the cantrip thaumaturgy with the intent to SHOUT or otherwise put any opponents off guard.

"Aw, hell," says Gwen. She doffs her hat and coat, scrambles down from her perch on the wagon's tarpaulin-covered load to the driver's bench, and mutters a few arcane words. She scans the woods for movement as best she can and considers whether there's room to turn the team on the road or squeeze the wagon past the horse carcasses.

[OoC: Preparing to cast Mage Armor. Also Animal Handling (4+3=7) to see what options we have? At any rate I can drive the team once my spell slots are gone, which will happen quickly.

Imbert retrieves his bow and slips out of the wagon.  He advances towards the dead horses through the thicket in the shadow of the embankment.

[OoC]; 09:56, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 15 using 1d20+4.  Perception. (ambush?)
09:56, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 15 using 1d20+4.  Survival. (any tracks?)

In reply to Imbert Keenbinder (msg # 20):

"Its probably nothing." Jaskier says after squinting to look at the dead horses.  However after seeing Bandolor reach for his giant mace, Jaskier re considers.  "Right...always better to be prepared and so on..."  He grabs his rapier and remains unusually close to Bandolor scanning nervously around their surroundings.

All is quite very quite as you approach the horses. As you get closer you notice that the saddle bags have been looted and not far from the horses there lies an empty leather map case.

Imbert crouches down to inspect the area and notices several sets of small humanoid foot prints scattered all about the horses as well as what appear to be drag marks for two humanoids heading to the North of the road.

Looks like an Ambush happened hear. The riders drug somewhere North.

Then the bushes quiver and four goblins appear and loose arrows in your direction.



OOC: Bandalor an Arrow flies past your head. Gwen is struck by an arrow for 8 points of damage. Gwen I am sure throws up mage armor but the arrow still hits. Imbert an arrow flies past you. Jaskier you are missed as well. I am using google to roll we are on the honor system here. Please give me initiative.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 22):

11:26, Today: Jaskier rolled 18 using 1d20+2 ((16)).

He also uses Bardic Inspiration as a bonus action, Bandalor gains an inspiration die (1d6). For 10 minutes, Bandalor can add it to one ability check, attack roll, or saving throw.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:38, Tue 07 Apr 2020.

[OoC];11:28, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 13 using 1d20+3.  Dexterity check for initiative.

Bandalor jumps down from the wagon to take up a position toward the nearest goblin;  Is it possible to simultaneously cast Thaumaturgy and bellowing a battle cry?  Intent is to shock and unnerve goblins.

"FOR THE GLORY OF THE MORNINGLORD!" I shout, releasing the cantrip and hoisting my mace.

14:25, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 18 using 1d20+1 ((17)).

Dexterity check for initiative.

Gwen holds the team some distance back as the party approaches the scene of the ambush. When the goblins appear, she [hopefully] casts a defensive spell, but to no avail... the arrow strikes true. She leaps to her feet, arrow protruding from her flank, and cries out "Oh-ho, cretins... I am far more wizard than you realize!" but then grows quite pale from blood loss and slumps onto the wagon seat. "Or perhaps just the regular amount of wizard..."

[OoC: 8 points! If I managed to get Mage Armor off I'm AC 15, and I'm taking cover in the wagon if I can. Please give me range to the gobbos to decide between Magic Missile and Burning Hands. I'm somewhere between Not Quite Dead Yet and Mostly Dead, but I intend to take one of these bastards with me.

13:33, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 22 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

Gwen hauls herself up past the edge of the wagon box and weakly whispers "pew-pew-pew," sending three streaks of brilliant blue energy into whichever goblin is holding a bow and looking most satisfied with himself. Then she slumps back down into the wagon.

14:33, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 12 using 3d4+3.  Magic Missile Damage.

Seeing his newly acquainted friend injured from the arrow, Jaskier steels himself with a quiet hymn that he sings to himself.  Then charges at the attacking goblins with his rapier.  He attacks for 15

13:55, Today: Jaskier rolled 19 using 1d20+4 ((15))

If successful, the goblin takes 4 damage

13:54, Today: Jaskier rolled 4 using 1d8+2 ((2))

As a bonus action, Jaskier casts healing word on Gwen and she gains 6 HP

13:59, Today: Jaskier rolled 6 using 1d4+2 ((4))
This message was last edited by the player at 21:05, Tue 07 Apr 2020.

Bandalor hefts rather awkwardly toward the nearest goblin with his mace.

19:33, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 5 using 1d20+4.  To hit with mace.

[OOC]  Ugh.  How's Gwen?  Prepping Bless for next round.

Gwen pops up and delivers three bolts of energy at the goblins. Two blasting one goblin who goes down in a horrid scream and one striking another. Jaskier charges the goblin line striking down and laying low the goblin hit by the errant missile. Bandalor not to be outdone by his Bardic companion charges into the goblin line as well but the run up hill throws off his aim and the swing goes wide.

The goblin in front of Bandalor drops his bow and produces a crude scimitar striking the the priest in the midsection with a solid connection and smiles at this accomplishment. The last Goblin unleashes another arrow at Imbert who is still on the road which finds it's mark sinking deep into his flesh.

 OOC: Two goblins are felled. Bandalor takes 7 points of damage from a scimitar wound and Imbert takes 4 from an Arrow.

Gwen
Jaskier
Bandalor
Goblins
Imbert<-----

Imbert fires an arrow back towards the goblins

[OoC];  18:16, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 11 using 1d8+3.  Damage.
18:15, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Attack.

Bolstered by Jaskier's healing words, Gwen rises with a look of grim determination and a smear of blood on her face. She snatches her stave, vaults from the wagon, and dashes after the men, howling like a banshee. Hoping to spare Bandalor further injury and allow Imbert to remain at range, she closes on the scimitar-wielding goblin and makes a wild swing... though she might as well have been swinging a hat rack, which was, in fact, what she mostly used her stave for...

[OoC: Oops.]

22:14, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 9 using 1d20+3.  Quarterstaff Attack.
22:15, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 2 using 1d6+1.  Quarterstaff Damage.

Jaskier attacks the goblin next to Bandolor with advantage

Best of
22:55, Today: Jaskier rolled 13 using 1d20+4 ((9)).

22:59, Today: Jaskier rolled 18 using 1d20+4 ((14)).

cuasing  5 HP damage

22:59, Today: Jaskier rolled 5 using 1d8+2 ((3)).

Gwen and Bandalor have run up on one of the two remaining goblins. Both Gwen and Bandalor missed but then the bard rushes in and thrusts his rapier into the goblin who lets out a yelp of pain, is now not looking well and seems about to bolt. The other goblin is looking between the group and Imbert still in the road. You can see in his face that he is debating who will be his next victim.

Gwen
Jaskier
Bandalor<----
Goblins
Imbert

OOC: Bandalor do not forget you can add a d6 to your next attack roll if you choose thanks to the bards inspiration. Also everyone in the group with the wounded goblin has advantage due to flanking.

Advantage roll your attack dice twice and choose the highest.

Breathing raggedly, Bandalor swings mace with his entire body against the remaining uninjured goblin.

08:34, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 25 using 1d20+10.  Attack roll Mace.

08:35, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 7 using 1d6+2.  Mace damage.

[OOC]  Attack +10 due to Proficiency/Strength/Bard inspiration...  deduct any points if I miscalculated here.

The uninjured gobluns crumples under the mace blow leaving the injured goblin as the last enemy standing. This goblin swings his scimitar ant Gwen but the swing is wild and misses.


Gwen
Jaskier
Bandalor
Goblins
Imbert<---

Imbert calmly fires an arrow past the wizard, into the remaining goblin (hopefully).

[OoC];09:54, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 18 using 1d20+5.  Attack.
09:54, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 8 using 1d8+3.  Damage.

With the battle over and the adrenalin subsiding some of you are staggered by the pain of your wounds. However you do recover your wits soon enough and you take stock of the situation. Upon closer inspection Bandalor recognizes one of the horses as Storm that belonged to Gundren. The number of goblins in this ambush party do not account for all of the tracks down on the road. Gundren or his companion are not found in the immidiate area either. Beside the road there is a trail hidden in the underbrush and leads north away from the road. Ttacks and drag marks head this way. It is difficult to tell how long ago this had happened but you guess within the last cpuple of days.

Imbert collects his spent arrows, and fiddles a little with the one sticking out of his shoulder.  "I'm confident our patron would prefer we retrieve him, even at the risk of his shipment." he begins, "Does anyone know how one should remove these?"  He finishes, gesturing at the arrow.

[OoC];  I'm not in too bad shape, I can scout ahead on the trial.

Jaskier jumps in the air raising his rapier to the sky exclaiming

"Yes!  We felled those despicable beasts!"

Realizing his outburst was bit over the top, he recomposed himself and said

"Apologies, my former companion never let me participate in the brawling...seemed to want the all the glory for himself and left me to write the ballad.  Of course friend Imbert, allow me."

Perhaps because he was still a little excited from the skirmish, Jaskier pulled the arrow from Imbert's should a bit indelicately, but he apologized and cast healing word.

Imbert gains 5 HP
10:46, Today: Jaskier rolled 5 using 1d4+2 ((3)).

"Er, Eembert...  lemme dress that..."  Seeing Jaskier tend to the wound, Bandalor steps back, and assesses his own need of aid.

"...I've exhausted the morninglord's bag of mystic tricks for the morning, but will need favor soon for the both of us.  I'm pretty nicked up."

[OOC]  Any major changes with clerical spells?  I'm guessing I don't get a recharge until the next day, correct?  I'm at 3HP.

"Thanks friend."  Imbert says through gritted teeth to the bard.  He looks over at the cleric.  "Perhaps we should rest here why you recover your breathe.  I'll move the wagon off the road, throw some branches on it and hobble the horses.  And we can loot the bodies of course."

[OoC]; We can take a long rest and you get slots and hit points back.  Or a short rest for just hit points.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:52, Wed 08 Apr 2020.

After the ambush the party decides to take a short rest while wounds are tended to. It is quiet on the Tribiar Trail. Very quiet almost too quiet.

OOC: if you are down HP you can spend your Hit dice. It is up to your class if you get back spell slots. Mostly i think wizard and sorcerer get them back is some fashion.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:53, Wed 08 Apr 2020.

Imbert busily strips anything of value from the dead goblins and stores it in the wagon.  Then leads the horses and wagon as far into the forest as possible, cuts branches to conceal the wagon and hobbles the horses near abundant grass.  After he returns to the group, he gestures at the trail.
"I'll go first, but in the woods beside the trail.  Follow after along the trail and I'll return if I find anything.  If I get into trouble, I'll head deeper into the woods and circle back."

Refreshed with divine energy, Bandalor turns to follow Imbert.

"Gwen, Jaskier, you guys good?  Figure at least one of you needs keep an eye on these goods, lest we succumb to a similar fate."

Cocking his ear to the forest, and scanning the dragmarks, he attempts to discern anything of note.

19:41, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 19 using 1d20.  Investigate check.

Jaskier looks around nervously and speaks
"Friends I am not as experienced in battle and strategies as you all, but might i suggest a different approach, seeing as we didn't exactly escape the last ambush unscathed.  You sneak down the road a ways ahead and hide.  Allow me to pilot the wagon alone, making all manor of noise and generally behaving like a drunkard merchant without a care on the road.  Surely whatever villian is lurking in the forest will think the prize easy enough to rob me of it, and that is when you all strike from the shadows.  Just don't wait too long, if another band of goblins find me I won't make it alone."

In reply to Jaskier (msg # 46):

[OOC]  I am not opposed to a lure;  however I think we should investigate where the tracks lead before we assume there is an ambush.  Certainly with the Ranger we should be able to observe this?

Imbert heads up the trail but hidden from view off of it.

Looking around Bandalor thinks the wagon can be tied and hidden off the road he also has noted that no one else has been seen on the Triboar trail and believes that it should be safe and the horses are fed enough by the surrounding vegitation.

By the time Imbert returns the wagon is hidden and safe. The goblins have been using this trail as a thoroughfare between the road and wherever the have originated from somewhere to the North.

Imbert did notice a snare set on the trail about ten minutes up.

Gwen makes her way gingerly over to the group, but her color is restored after a short rest. "Whatever Gundren wants of these supplies, it probably involves him being in Phandalin to receive them. I also don't fancy showing up with the goods and the news that we didn't go after him when we could have. I think stashing the wagon and following those tracks together is the way. I have a few tricks up my sleeve yet, magically speaking, but I'm looking forward to an evening of sleep and study before long."

[OoC]: Pretty good on hit points thanks to Jaskier, but down to cantrips after using two spells. Mage Armor is good for a while yet if anyone wants to pick a fight before bedtime.

"If my cousin is in the hands of goblins, I'll never return home again unless I've done everything I can to free him."

"I didn't realize he was your cousin.  The trail leads to the north and is likely too narrow for the wagon.  The goblins use it to access the road, but they travel in single file to hid their numbers.  We can move up the trails as far as I have scouted, the only danger is running into a patrol heading the other way on the trail."

"Well...  cross bred Dwarven relationships can be difficult to explain, so I tend not to advertise it too much.  It's further complicated by being my Aunt's side by marriage.  Strong family connections, but my time on the road has kept me from making much kin with Clan Rockseeker."

Bandalor talks while cutting down switches and leaves to cover the wagon.

"Another thing...  my dreams.  I usually drink much to keep night visions away, but these persist.  Nearby.."  He points down to where  Imbert has scouted"  "I think the Morninglord has alerted me to a goblin tribe in a nearby ruin.  I did not mention earlier, because none of seemed real...  but now a foreboding sense of deja vu forces me to speak."

He looks kind of incredulous at his companions, as if he is not quite sure of himself.

Jaskier puts his hand of Bandolor's should and says
"No need to fret Bandolor.  If your cousin is in some sort of trouble, we can get him out of it."

The party heads up the trail with Imbert in the woods parallel to it and some distance ahead of the rest of the party. The goblin tracks follow the path North and at some point Imbert circles back and warns the party that there seems to be some sort of pit trap in the trail ahead. Given this information you can circumvent the area with ease.
Eventually the forest begins to thin and in the not far off distance you see cliff face with what appears to be a cave entrance at the mouth. The goblin tracks and the drag marks lead to the cave.



OOC: Please tell me party order up the trail and what all you might do when you get to the top of the trail.

[OOC]  Think its the Ranger up front, with either me or Jaskier astride him, and Gwen bringing up the rear.

Not committing to that until everyone else concurs.  Not trying to cock block the Bard;  dunno how a 5ED bard stacks against a Cleric for tanking, and guessing a Cleric is mildly better.

Either or, whatever is tactically best.

[OoC];  I can go fist.  Holding a torch?  I'm going to switch to one of the goblin scimitars.

As you enter the clearing

This message was last edited by the GM at 19:37, Thu 09 Apr 2020.

Jaskier will let Bandolor follow behind Imbert.  His new found confidence in battle is not enough to assuage his fears of taking on a horde of goblins in a dark cave.

"A cave! Be still, my Gnomish heart." Gwen readies her stave and takes up the sweep position in the party. "Let me know if your human vision impairments let you down up there, guys."

[OoC: I'm going to read the 'ready an action' stuff... I feel like I want to have something at my fingertips.

[OoC];  Can I ready a bow shot?

As you crouch near the edge of the clearing everyone is tensed up and ready to strike. After several beats nothing happens all you hear is the sound of water running from the cave mouth. However you keep your actions ready on the off chance something appears from somewhere.

OOC: You are all standing there watching the cave mouth and surrounding area.

Bandalor grips his mace, holding it high.  Turning to Imbert, he says "Well, rugged outdoorsman before divinity, I always say.  Shall we?"

"We shall."  Imbert replies.  "Hopefully it turns out better than the last cave I went into, but the odds of the rest of you are devoured by undead have to be long." he continues quietly.

[OoC];  Advances up to the cave mouth with bow shot ready.  Bandalor, can you hold a torch?

"Naturally, good sir."  He braces his mace between his foot and inner thigh, and grabs a torch from his pack, lighting it with his tinder kit.


20:03, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Dexterity Check:  Lighting torch while balancing mace.

As he lights the torch, his mace falls over.  He spends the rest of the round sheepishly collecting his tinder and lighting gear, then recovering his mace to a combat stance.  He acts particularly stiffly, embarrassed.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:05, Fri 10 Apr 2020.

Jaskier pulls his rapier from its scabbard, and after noticing a bit of dried blood on the blade he, slightly embarrassed, wipes it clean.  He nods to the rest of the group and whipsers "Ready!"

Gwen is oblivious to the cleric's bungling... she's muttering over her spellbook. "Okay... klatuu... barada... got it!" She snaps it shut, stows it in a small rectangular pouch at her waist, and cracks her knuckles. "Let's go blow something up!"

OoC: Looks like you can't ready spells with a formal action, so let's try to get the drop on the little buggers. Ready to move up at the rear of the party. Here's potentially useful rolls if it matters:
19:42, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 20 using 1d20+2.  Stealth.
19:42, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Perception.

The party moves up to the mouth of the cave ready for anything. Bandalor holds his torch high and can see a watery passage lead away to the north with passages shooting of East and West as it continues North. Then you hear an awful growling gurgling sound emanating from behind you. You turn hesitantly for fear of what creature you may find behind you. There in a copse of trees and hidden from a view from the South are two goblin sentries fast asleep and snoring loudly to one another.


This message was last edited by the GM at 03:50, Fri 10 Apr 2020.

I do the best to communicate with my eyes: "You should kill one of those goblins, and snatch the other for information."

21:07, Today: Jaskier rolled 17 using 1d20-1 ((18)) for perception check.
1:08, Today: Jaskier rolled 22 using 1d20+2 ((20)) for stealth check.

Jaskier winks at Imbert and moves stealthily into position to make as striking blow with his rapier.

Imbert switched from bow to scimitar, then moves towards the sleeping goblins.

[OoC];  10:45, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Stealth.

The group dispatches one of the goblins and surround the other. The goblin wakes with a start but sees he is surrounded and prone not giving any kind of resistance. He says in high shrill voice, "No hurt Eek. Eek do what you want. Then you let Eek go."

"Er, what's in the cave, greenskin?"  Bandalor nudges the prone goblins' leg with the end of his mace.

Eek looks nervously at the cave and then back at the company before him and says, "Goblins. Lots and lots of Goblins."

"Well, it is a cave after all.  Any traps of note?  Only Goblins or other creatures?  Wizards, priests?  Warriors of renown?"

The goblins stammers out,"Big Boss is a bugbear and he keeps woofs as pets."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:56, Fri 10 Apr 2020.

[OOC] We all good on preps before entering the cave?  My recommendation is tying and gagging the goblin and leaving him;  however I will not object to ending him.

Imbert ties up and gags the goblin.  And turns to the cave entrance, and switches back to his bow.
"Shall we?" he asks rhetorically, and starts towards the cave entrance.

[OoC];  Prepare an arrow shot
This message was last edited by the player at 01:25, Sat 11 Apr 2020.

"Indeed."  Bandalor again grips his mace, and paces astride Imbert toward the cave entrance.

"Yeah, baby."

OoC: Hopefully Gwen's darkvision makes up for the fact has no clue what she's doing.

You enter the cave and you immediately notice the sound of the water in the cave muffles noises. You have a hard time hearing what is inside the stepped room until you get a look around the corner.

Just inside the cave mouth, a few uneven stone steps lead up to a small, dank chamber on the east side of the passage. The cave narrows to a steep fissure at the far end, and is filled with the stench of animals. Savage snarls and the sounds of rattling chains greet your ears where three wolves are chained up just inside the opening. Each wolf's chain leads to an iron rod driven into the base of a stalagmite.

The chains stop the wolves from reaching your party but they perk up when they see you and try to close with you but are held at bay.

Bandalor moves to a position where he can smash one of the wolves in the head with his mace.

09:59, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.

10:00, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 12 using 1d20+4.  To hit wolf.

10:01, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 3 using 1d6+2.  Mace damage.

"I guess he really doesn't like wolves"  Imbert mutters as Bandalor charges in.  Releasing arrows that fly just over his companions shoulder.

[OoC];Readied action (if applicable), initiative and first round action.  Same target for both attacks.

08:48, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Attack (readied action).
08:48, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 6 using 1d8+3.  Damage (readied action).
08:48, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 23 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.
08:47, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  Attack.
08:47, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 9 using 1d8+3.  Damage.

Gwen moves just past the entrance to the wolf lair and crouches low, scanning the tunnel ahead and listening over the gurgling of water for more goblins.

OoC: I figure you guys can deal with chained wolves, so I'll save my spells and watch our backsides.

Jaskier rolled 15 for initiative
Jaskier rolled 19 for attack
Jaskier rolled 7 hp damage

Gwen moves forward and sees: the main passage from the cave mouth climbs steeply upward, the stream plunging and splashing down its west side. In the shadows, a side passage leads west across the other side of the stream.

In the shadows of the ceiling to the north, you can just make out the dim shape of a rickety bridge of wood and rope crossing over the passage ahead of you. Another passage intersects this one, twenty feet above the floor.

Bandalor and Jaskier close with the wolves supported by Imbert. Jaskier and Imbert lay a wolf low with a whimper while Bandalor misses his target still shaken by his earlier encounter with the goblins. Imbert then unleashes another arrow into the fray striking his target.

Imbert
Bandlalor<---
Jaskier
Wolves

OOC: I am dealing damage to same monsters to bring them down faster unless you have other thoughts. This was a surprise round since the wolves are chained. Readied actions don't work before combat begins. Imbert wounded the wolf in front of Bandalor.

Growing ever more frustrated with his lack of prowess, Bandalor swings forward on the wounded wolf.

"BY LATHANDER'S GLOWING BALLS!"

14:22, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 13 using 1d20+4.  To hit wolf.


14:23, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 8 using 1d6+2.  Mace damage.

Jaskier gives Bandolor and exasperated look and scans the area to see if the noise has attracted any attention.  Then he slashes his rapier at the wolf.

Jaskier attacks (with advantage) for 17
13:34, Today: Jaskier rolled 16 using 1d20+4 ((12)).
13:34, Today: Jaskier rolled 21 using 1d20+4 ((17)).

Jaskier does 5 HP damage
13:35, Today: Jaskier rolled 7 using 1d6+2 ((5)).

Bandalor fells his wolf and Jaskier moves onto the next wolf and stabs it with his rapier but it is still standing and lunges at Jaskier biting at his side.

OOC: Jaskier takes 5 points of damage and must make a Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

Imbert<----
Bandlalor
Jaskier
Wolves

Imbert moves into the chamber to get a better angle, but the arrow flies wide.

[OoC];16:36, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 8 using 1d20+5.
16:35, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 9 using 1d8+3.  Damage.

Bandalor steps forward to assist Imbert with the remaining wolf.

19:59, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  To hit wolf.

....pretty sure the damage roll on that is unnecessary.

20:55, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 11 using 1d20+4.  To hit wolf.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:56, Sun 12 Apr 2020.

Hearing lots more bellowing than she had expected, Gwen abandons her lookout and creeps back to the side passage. Seeing Jaskier torn and bleeding, Bandalor yelling and swinging wildly, and Imbert bouncing arrows off the ceiling, she sighs and strides into the chamber. "Let me get this straight... the three of you come in here to kill wolves that are chained to the ground and you don't come to the conclusion to just stand back and shoot them?"

She sets her feet, utters a fierce "Hadouken!" and sends a ball of searing fire across the grotto.

18:37, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 14 using 1d20+6.  Fire Bolt.
18:37, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 5 using 1d10.  Fire Bolt Damage.

After the Wizard steps in the battle comes to an abrupt end. The last wolf is left a cindering mess the party asses their situation. Every one seems fine but Jaskier has a ragged bit is his side.

You take a look around the room now while standing among the bodies of the dead wolves. This is obviously some sort of kennel used to house wolves. Those wolves are now dead. Laying at your feet. their blood on your weapons.

A narrow opening in the east wall leads to a natural chimney. At the base of the fissure is rubbish that's been discarded as though thrown down from the top of the opening.

"Anyone game to climb up and take a peek?" Imbert says softly to the group.  Then he collect spent arrows and looks around the kennel

[OoC];  18:27, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 21 using 1d20+4.  Perception to find cool stuff.
Chimney that goes up to a higher level?  I have Stealth +3 and Athletics +2, anyone better?
This message was last edited by the player at 01:28, Sun 12 Apr 2020.

"It may connect to a bridge I could see just up the passage with the stream running down it... it was about 20 feet up and points the right direction."

Looking around the kennel you find rubbish and discarded scraps. You find nothing of value. However looking up the fissure you think you spy a ledge about 30ft up.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:16, Sun 12 Apr 2020.

[OOC] I'm also +2 Athletics.  Not so much on the stealth, though.

[OOC] I'm +2 Acrobatics and +2 Stealth.  And I can probably only scout with half my HP.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:13, Sun 12 Apr 2020.

Imbert attempts to climb the chimney.

[OoC];20:27, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 11 using 1d20+2.
20:27, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 9 using 1d20+2.  Climbing.

Imbert climbs the 30 ft chimney to find a chamber with sacks and crates of looted provisions piled up in the south end. A large opening leads north down a set of natural stone steps, the roar of falling water echoing from beyond. In the middle of the cavern, the coals of a large fire smolder. Around the fire sit two goblins, a wolf and a bug bear. They are too busy talking among themselves and the firelight is hard to penetrate the cover to notice Imberts presence. However the wolf lifts its head up and looks in your direction and begins to growl. The bugbear hits the canine on the hind quarters and hushes it.


This message was last edited by the GM at 04:34, Sun 12 Apr 2020.

Imbert lowers his rope down the chimney, wraps the end around his waist and puts his back to a large rock.

[OoC];  Back to rock in M21.  Bow close at hand, but braced and holding rope for others to climb.

Jaskier sees the rope dangle the chimney and grunts, rolling his eyes mouthing
"ah hell's bells!'
He fashions a bandage out of some material out of his back back.  He strains to pull himself up the rope to join imbert.

When Gwen's turn comes, she wraps the rope twice around her waist. "I can't climb for shit, but I weigh less than a harvestide ham," she whispers, then tugs the rope twice.

[OoC:] If one of these big strong men want to go first, I'm not opposed, but these goons are begging for a 15' cone. Gwen weighs less than 40 pounds, so hopefully someone can hoist her with an easier Strength test.

You find yourselves in the chamber with the bugbear and the goblins.

OOC: I will give you a surprise round. Give me your action and your initiative. I will take into account if people are doing AOE attacks and they will go first independent of posting order.

[OoC];  Try to drop the wolf
07:58, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  Attack (surprise action).
07:58, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 4 using 1d8+3.  Damage (surprise action).
07:58, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.
07:57, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  Attack.
07:57, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 8 using 1d8+3.  Damage.

Gwen times her spell to follow Imbert's first arrow and to catch the group before they react and scatter. She slips around the stalagmite and unleashes a wave of flame from her fingertips.

[OoC:] 09:18, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 5 using 3d6 ((1,2,2)). Burning Hands. Sorry for the pathetic damage... I was hoping to soften them up a bit more. Dex save DC 14 for half damage.

09:27, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 16 using 1d20+2 ((14)). Initiative. My spell will depend on the enemy's initiative and actions...

[OOC] Bandalor flips a hand axe at the closest goblin.


11:49, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

11:49, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 5 using 1d20+4.  To hit goblin with hand axe.

11:48, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 4 using 1d6+2.  Hand axe damage.

...unknown if there are any modifiers to my rolls for surprise or advantage.  If so, please adjust accordingly.

Pretty clear to me now why Bandalor drinks.  He can't hit shit.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:01, Sun 12 Apr 2020.

Jaskier throws his dagger at the closest goblin
12:35, Today: Jaskier rolled 10 using 1d20+2 ((8)).  Attack (surprise)
12:37, Today: Jaskier rolled 5 using 1d4+2 ((3)) for 5 piercing damage

12:38, Today: Jaskier rolled 8 using 1d20+2 ((6)).  Initiative

The wolf takes an arrow in the flank and is then burned by magical flame.Both Goblins seem to burn but one seems to suffer more than the other. The Hobgoblin seems to take the full affect of the magical flame. The bugbear hops and and decries, "Who dare's to Defy Klarg."

The Goblins then charge into the fray. One misses Jaskier and one hits Bandalor.
Imbert then drops a goblin

Goblins
Imbert
Gwen<----
Wolf
Bandalor
Jaskier
Klarg

OOC: Wolf suffers 9 points of damage, Goblin one suffers 3 points of damage, Goblin 2 Suffers five points of damage and Klarg suffers 5 Points of damage. Bandalor take 3 points of damage. Imbert hits and fells a goblin

This message was last edited by the GM at 23:35, Sun 12 Apr 2020.

Gwen clumsily menaces a goblin with her stave to no effect.

19:14, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 6 using 1d20+3 ((3)).

The wolf charges at Bandalor but his bite misses.

Jaskier valiently (at least in his mind) yells
"Fear not lady Gwen!"
and attacks the goblin next to Gwen (with advantage I think) for 12.
19:44, Today: Jaskier rolled 12 using 1d20+4
19:44, Today: Jaskier rolled 5 using 1d20+4 ((1)).

If successful, goblin takes 6 HP damage
19:45, Today: Jaskier rolled 6 using 1d8+2.

Bandalor (finally) thwacks the charging wolf with his mace.

05:41, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 20 using 1d20+4.  To hit wolf.

05:41, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 3 using 1d6+2.  Mace damage to wolf.

Seeing his wolf laid low by Bandalor the bug bear screams and charges at him with his morning star raised. "You killed wolfie," he screams, "Klarg will build a throne from your bones, puny ones!"

Imbert<---
Gwen
Bandalor
Jaskier
Klarg

OOC:Klarg Charges at Bandalor but his swing with his wicked morning star goes wide. At this point Klarg is surrounded advantage for everyone.

Imbert fires an arrow at the bugbear.

[OoC]; 09:28, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 18 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Attack with advantage. - [roll=1586795286.5365.341287]
09:27, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 11 using 1d8+3.  Damage. - [roll=1586795252.87444.341287]

Gwen slips through the stalagmites and into the chamber, pivoting to fire a bolt of flame at Klarg's back. She risks a glance up the passage as she tucks herself against the far wall.

OoC: Move to L-24, Fire Bolt at the bugbear, plus a quick Darkvision glance up the next tunnel for reinforcements.

22:04, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 20 using 1d20+6.  Fire Bolt.
22:04, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 5 using 1d10.  Fire Bolt Damage.

You gotta be shitting me.  Clearly Lathander is banging Tymora.

0:28, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 24 using 1d20+4.  To hit nearest enemy.
10:27, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 24 using 1d20+4.  To hit nearest enemy.
10:27, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 6 using 1d6+2.  Mace damage.
12:00, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 4 using 1d6+2.  Double damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:01, Tue 14 Apr 2020.

Jaskier attacks with his rapier (and advantage)
09:22, Today: Jaskier rolled 9 using 1d20+4 ((5))
09:22, Today: Jaskier rolled 19 using 1d20+4 ((15))

for 6 HP damage
09:23, Today: Jaskier rolled 6 using 1d8+2 ((4))

The party dances around Klarg not giving him a chance to recover and each character keeping Klarg distracted from the other as they make their attack. Quickly you lay him low. AS Gwen vied for position around Klarg she looked up through the Northern passage and could see a waterfall cascading into a small pool. The noise from the waterfall drowns out any noises from penetrating between the two rooms.

OOC: Klarg is brought down. Gwen looked into the passage. Lots of stuff in this room.

Jaskier jumps triumphantly in the air, which pulls at his bandages.  He lets out a "Ahhh fuck!" and then sits down to tend to his open wound.

[OOC]  Blinding flash of the obvious:  We search the room, and Bandalor particularly keeps his mouth shut, still smarting from his poor showing and frustrated outbursts.

"Anyone need me to tend to their wounds?" He whispers, while surveying the goblinoid hovel.

[OOC]  Medicine proficiency all I got at this point.  Set yer bones, give ya a poultice...

At the southern end of the chamber there are piles of sacks and crates most are marked with the image of a blue lion. These appear to be stolen goods. Among the crates and supplies there is an unlocked chest containing: 600 cp, 110 sp, two potions of healing, and a jade statuette of a frog with tiny golden orbs for eyes (40 gp). The frog statuette is small enough to fit in a pocket or pouch.

From the fallen you also find:
Hide armor
Morning star
3x shield
javelin
2x small suits leather armor
2x Short bows
12x arrows

"There may be enough here to be worth coming back for," Gwen whispers. "But we better check for more goblins and hopefully survivors. There's more to this disgusting burrow ahead and behind."

OoC: How does the pile of supplies compare to our current wagon load?

Imbert coils his rope and collects spent arrows.  "We didn't make too much noise, we could probably catch our breathe here.  Though someone may seek and audience with the king at some point, and there is our employer or cousin to track down... Imbert says trailing off at the end.

[OoC];  Short rest to get Jaskier hit point and Gwen spells?  Or just a healing potion and move on?

[OOC]  I got 7hp, and a Bless spell. Think another scouting peek before we commit, if feasible?

"If you want, I can poke around a bit before we head out.".  Imbert suggests.

[OoC];  Do we have any exits?

You do think that if anybody comes in to see Klarg you maybe caught off guard. However what you do know is that goblins try to avoid the big boss unless they absolutely have to.

OOC: Bandalor you have spell slots and you can cast any 1st level spell you have from that slot it is not limited to what you think you have memorized. You could cast a cure spell or whatever you know from that 1st level slot.

"If I come running back, please kill anything chasing me" Imbert states before heading to the large exit with bow in hand.

[OoC];  Arrow shot as prepared action on seeing anyone.
15:22, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 16 using 1d20+4.  Perception.
15:21, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 4 using 1d20+3.  Stealth.
Well, that wasn't quiet.  Apparently, there is also a crate of gongs and I just knocked it over.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:30, Tue 14 Apr 2020.

Gwen shadows Imbert a little way up the passage with her forefinger raised above her head, cupping one hand in the other and keeping the clumsy human at the edge of her Darkvision.

OoC: So I'm reading over 5th ed. mechanics and apparently I have unlimited cantrips. I'm out of spells, but I can deliver some ranged output in a fight with cantrips. Powerful, these modern wizards.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:04, Wed 15 Apr 2020.

Bandalor shoots Jaskier a "You good, bro?" Look while making "cure light wounds" gestures with his fingers.

This cavern is half filled with two large pools of water. A narrow waterfall high in the eastern wall feeds the pool, which drains out the western end of the chamber to form the stream that flows out of the cave mouth below. Low fieldstone walls serve as dams holding the water in. A wide exit stands to the south, while two smaller passages lead west. The sound of the waterfall echoes through the cavern, making it difficult to hear.
Three Goblins stand guard here.

OOC: Everyone gets a surprise action. I think Imbert and Gwen are in positions to do ranged attacks. Take surprise actions roll initiative and tell me what you doing on your initiative.

In reply to Bandalor Armonthor (msg # 129):

Jaskier replies to Bandalor
"A most welcome gesture friend Bandalor.  Who knows how many more foes lurk in the depths."   He also picks up his dagger and readies for another attack.

Imbert sees the goblins at the same time they see him.  He firs a quick shot, retreats and fires again.

[OoC];  Surprise, shoot arrow at closest.  Initiative (if before goblins), move back into cavern and fires a second arrow.  If the goblins go first, actions may change.

17:51, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  Attack (surprise action).
17:51, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 7 using 1d8+3.  Damage (surprise action).
17:51, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.
17:50, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Attack.  Critical!
17:50, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 7 using 1d8+3.  Damage.
17:50, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 1 using 1d8.  Critical Damage.

Gwen slinks into the room behind Imbert and levels her index finger at one of the sentries. "Kablam!" she mutters, and a gout of flame streaks toward the unfortunate goblin.

19:24, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 22 using 1d20+6.  Fire Bolt.
19:24, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 8 using 1d10.  Fire Bolt Damage.

19:29, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 9 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:29, Wed 15 Apr 2020.

Bandalor intones the favor of the Morninglord while laying hands on the bard.

21:38, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 11 using 1d8+3.  Heal Jaskier.

Then he collects his thrown hand axe, crawls up the way and readies it to strike.

21:37, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 13 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

The Ranger and the Wizard make short work of the goblin sentries. Noise from the quick dispatch could not have traveled out of the chamber due to the waterfall coming in from the North East. There is an exit that goes down some stairs to the North West and it looks like it meets up with the Stream and an exit that stays level that heads West maybe looks like it would meet up with the bridge.

OOC: Imberts Initiative was before the Goblins so they never got to do anything.
Recover:
3x suits of leather
3x scimitars
18x arrows
3x Short bows

FYI in the new edition weapons ransacked from the fallen are not worth much for resale to a weapon merchant. Maybe if you could find someone to buy used weapon in bulk it might be worth it but would take time. The supplies in Klargs chamber would require the wagon be brought up to the cave and loaded. There is room in the wagon for those supplies if you choose.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:00, Wed 15 Apr 2020.

"Well that could have gone worse"  Imbert says somewhat surprised.  "There looks like a couple ways out of that room, one that might connect to the Gwen's bridge.  Still no sign of the cousin."

[OoC];  Head out as a party?  For the treasure we can pile the weapons and armor with the trade goods and decide if its worth bringing the wagon later.  Take the potions, money and frog statue.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:57, Wed 15 Apr 2020.

[OOC] Concur with Imbert;  no matter how loathe I am not to grind and haggle for weaponry...

Upon entering the chamber and seeing the felled golbins
"Well, well, well...Imbert and Gwen you've been busy!  Can't even leave you alone for a few seconds before you'll find trouble.  Well, yes I suppose we should investigate the rest of the caverns to discover any lingering foes, and of course, Bandalor's cousin."

Jaskier rolls 15  for perception
20:58, Today: Jaskier rolled 15 using 1d20-1.

Jaskier rolls 13 for stealth
20:59, Today: Jaskier rolled 13 using 1d20+2.

Imbert looks at the tunnels and figures the level path would lead to the bridge. The group heads that way and ahead they do indeed see a bridge that stands 20 feet from the passage below. There is also a goblin there leaning on his bow either looking down at the path or dozing. He seems oblivious to anything amiss in the chamber behind him.

OOC: Give me surprise actions.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:30, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

Launches hand axe at goblin.


07:47, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 19 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

07:47, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 5 using 1d20+4.  To hit goblin.

07:46, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 7 using 1d6+2.  Hand axe damage.

There's the Bando we know and love.  As he watches his hand axe bounce off his own foot, he considers seriously donating significant sums at the next shrine of Tymora he sees.

[OoC]; 08:11, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  Attack (surprise action).
10:19, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Attack (surprise action) - Advantage.
08:10, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 6 using 1d8+3.  Damage (surprise action).
08:10, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 8 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:20, Wed 15 Apr 2020.

Jaskier attacks the gobline with his rapier (with advantage)

10:45, Today: Jaskier rolled 12 using 1d20+4.
10:41, Today: Jaskier rolled 15 using 1d20+4.

and does 8 HP damage
10:46, Today: Jaskier rolled 8 using 1d8+2.

Initiative for the next action roll is 21
10:47, Today: Jaskier rolled 21 using 1d20+2.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:47, Wed 15 Apr 2020.

Jaskier Drops the dozing goblin the way forward is now open. You notice as you start across the bridge that there is smoke drifting in from somewhere ahead. The noise of the stream and the waterfall are not offering the protection it did as you are no longer close to the main chambers.

Jaskier attempts to scout ahead to find the source of the smoke

Sneak roll for 16
11:29, Today: Jaskier rolled 16 using 1d20+2 ((14)).

Perception roll for 19 (although i did roll a 20 before my modifier)
11:30, Today: Jaskier rolled 19 using 1d20-1 ((20)).

Imbert watches Jaskier with bow ready, but remains stationary to avoid making noise.

This large cave is divided in half by a ten-foot-high escarpment. A steep natural staircase leads from the lower portion to the upper ledge. The air is hazy with the smoke of a cooking fire, and pungent from the smell of poorly cured hides and unwashed goblins.

Five Golbins tend to a fire on the lower portion of this chamber. Another Goblin is on the upper Portion of this chamber and a humanoid is bound and gag at his feet.

As Jaskier sticks his head into this room he directly locks eyes with one of the goblins tending the fire. The goblin yells something and points at the entry way.

OOC: Jaskier was spotted no surprise actions give me initiative.

[OoC];12:33, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.

Initiative roll 15
12:41, Today: Jaskier rolled 15 using 1d20+2.

Jaskier quickly yells above the goblin rabble
"Klarg is dead!  Klarg is dead!  Long live the new master, Jaskier the Great!"

[OOC] Do i need to do a performance or persuasion check?

Apparently, all I get is Nat 1s or Nat 20s.

16:05, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

[OOC] ...does it make sense for Jaskier maybe to drop back so we may be able to get multiple attacks against one gobbo at a choke point?  Or do we just take turns until HP gets low one against gobbo?

Should someone double back to that other entrance?

Why am I so fat?  How many Nat 1s can I roll?

The goblins stop and look toward the goblin on the raised platform. That goblin looks at you all and says, "Even if Klarg is 'ead. I Yeemik am new big boss. Not this Jaskier. Proof Klarg be dead Proof."

Gwen catches the end of Jaskier's monologue and starts to squeeze up the passageway to support him, either in attack or retreat.

OoC: I can hold if Jaskier wants to draw some of them back this way.
15:58, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 18 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:03, Wed 15 Apr 2020.

Bandalor<----
Gwen
Gonlins
Jaskier
Imbert

The goblins look like they are spoiling for a fight

Jaskier chuckles to himself and replies (using vicious mockery)
"Yeemik the new big boss!  How preposterous!  I bested Klarg without breaking a sweat.  Surely your defeat would come just as easily!  No, no, no, save yourself the humiliation and bloodshed.  A lowly goblin such as yourself would do better to be my cup bearer, or perhaps tend to my horse!"

Jaskier does 1 psychic damage
17:20, Today: Jaskier rolled 1 using 1d4.


Yeemik must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or take 1d4 psychic damage and have disadvantage on the next Attack roll it makes before the end of its next turn.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:21, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

Bandalor moves in behind Jaskier and looses a hand axe....

20:20, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  To hit goblin.

20:20, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 4 using 1d6+2.  Hand axe damage.


Wooooooooooooooooo.  Fuck.

Hearing the element of surprise slipping away, Gwen hustles up the passage and hurls a green glob of steaming goo at the nearest goblins.

OoC: Acid Splash cantrip, doing 4 and 3 damage to 2 adjacent goblins, DC14 save for no damage. If I'm too far away, that's next round's action unless things change.

20:03, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 7 using 2d6 ((4,3)).

Yeemik yells out, "Slay the intruders," as he draws his sword and points it toward the tunnel. Then he lets out a brutal Goblin kick to the figure on the ground.

The other goblins forgetting their bows pull their weapons and charge in. One of the goblins in the front connects with Jaskier.

Bandalor
Gwen
Goblins
Jaskier
Imbert<----

OOC: Jaskier is missed and hit and takes 4 damage.


This message was last edited by the GM at 06:37, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

Imbert shoots an arrow over Gwens head and past Jaskier's shoulder.  The left eye of the goblin attacking Jaskier is replaced with feathers.

[OoC];08:24, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Attack.
08:24, Today: Imbert Keenbinder rolled 11 using 1d8+3.  Damage.

That Goblin drops.

Bandalor<----
Gwen
Goblins
Jaskier
Imbert

Bandalor attempts to edge next to Jaskier, and take a swing at one of the goblins.

11:47, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  To hit goblin.

11:46, Today: Bandalor Armonthor rolled 4 using 1d6+2.  Mace damage.

[OOC]  As expected.  Readying Bless.

Gwen fires another acidic gob at the goblins, landing it just so between the lead pair as to spatter them and spare Jaskier...

OoC: I think I can fire into melee like this. Acid Splash does 1d6 to 2 creatures within 5'. In this case, 2 and 6. Imbert can one-shot these things, and I can chip away and set them up for melee.

11:33, Today: Gwyndolyn Glyphwyrd rolled 8 using 2d6 ((2,6)).

Another Goblin drops and there is still one other Goblin that is smouldering due to an acid attack. The Goblins surge forward to fill in the gaps. Jaskier is hit by one of the in rushing Goblins while Bandalor is spared with a miss.

OOC: Jaskier takes 4 points of Damage from a scimitar. There is a Goblin in that first rank that has taken 5 points of Damage from previous Acid splashing. If Jaksier is down I need a death save...


Bandalor
Gwen
Goblins
Jaskier<---
Imbert

This message was last edited by the GM at 18:01, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

Imbert fires at a non-smoldering goblin.

[OoC];Roll(1d20)+5: 14,+5 Total:19 - To Hit
Roll(1d8)+3: 8,+3 Total:11 - To Damage
Giving this roller a shot...
https://www.wizards.com/dnd/dice/dice.htm

Jaskier attacks with his rapier for 15 (11+4)
Jaskier does 4 HP damage (2+2)

Having felled his goblin, jaskier uses his bonus action to move behind imbert
This message was last edited by the player at 18:17, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

Two more goblins drop just leaving the one regular goblin and Yemmik who seems to be getting a bit nervous now that his numbers have dwindled so rapidly.

OOC: Legolas drops a fresh Goblin and Jaskier drops a wounded Goblin.

Bandalor<---
Gwen
Goblins
Jaskier
Imbert

Bandalor rolls 18 to hit.

Bandalor rolls 6 for Mace damage.

Nearest goblin.

The last Goblin drops and Yeemik is looking mighty squeamish.

OOC: Gwen is up

Gwen steps into the chamber. "Well, Yeemik... you say you're the big boss now. Maybe you're ready for your first important decision." She summons a ball of lightning and holds it in the palm of her hand.

OoC: Prestidigitation cantrip... one of you silver-tongued types can lean on this punk if you want, and hopefully I can give you Advantage on the test (is that how that works?). Gwen will delay and hit him with Flame Bolt next round if he doesn't choose wisely. I'm okay with squeezing this dude and letting him go.

[OOC] Bandalor is too embarassed to be bloodthirsty.  Standing by to see if silvertongue can get any information out of this galoot.

Jaskier saunters into the room peering around at the goblins he and his friends had slain.  He raises his hands to the air and exclaims
"Yes, all hail Yeemik!  Master of nothing and no one!  Wouldn't even raise his sword to defend those he pledged to lead.  It seems even in death, Klarg was your better.  What do you think Bandalor?  Much of these weapons won't fetch much at the market or even an amateur sword smith.  But I have heard that the mages are performing some interesting magic with goblin intestines these days...problem is they can't get enough of it.  So how about Yeemik?  Can we borrow yours?  Or can you make it worth our while to keep you alive a bit longer?"

Intimidation roll 1d20+2 = 7
[OOC] Well f**k, do I get any bonuses from Gwen or Bandalor

Yeemik shaken by his loss and the words of possibilities to come stammers, "What is you want pale skins? Why come here? Are you after this 'umie her and he points to the figure at his feet. Please take what supplies you want. Leave me be. I go 'ay you never see Yeemik again."



This message was last edited by the GM at 20:41, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

Imbert knocks and arrow, draws and aims at Yeemik.  "Where is the dwarf that came with the human?" He asks.

Yeemik puts up his hands to shield his face and groan, "He was sent away to King Grol. He's at Cragmaw Castle but I don't know how to get there. The King wanted a map. Thats all I know. Please let me be on my way."

Bandalor hoists his mace and palms the spiked end.

"That seems unlikely, filth.  You must know, or know someone who does.  If you hope to survive this encounter, you'd best be offering more than that."

Steps toward Yeemik with readied action to strike.

Yeemik continues to cower, "Me swears I know not where castle is. Somewheres to the northwest me thinks. Hard to find me not ever been there. Mes honest. Please leave mes. Take the pale skin take him and go. I go too. I go north to other green skins."

Imbert lowers his bow and proceeds to pick up his spend arrows.  "Does anyone know how to get goblin eye off of these?" he asks holding up and arrow.  He then walks over the the human and starts cutting him loose.

[OoC];  I say we pull up the wagon and take as much as we can.

Imbert cuts loose a well built kindly looking human who stands up and says, "Well met. By the looks of you you must be the fellows Gundren asked to bring the supplies from Neverwinter." He points to Bandalor, "That would make you his cousin. I am Sildar Hallwinter. Traveling comapnion to Gundren. We should continue to Phandalin perhaps someone there has heard of Cragmaw Castle."

"Aye.  Let's gather up this loot for selling."

Walks over to the captive.  "Are you alright?  Do you need assistance?  How did you end up their captive?"  he asks, as even and non-interrogative as he can, readying whatever salves and poultices he has left.

"You say the king wanted a map? Of what, and from whom? I'll tell you what... I can draw a pretty good map. You help me figure out what goes on it, and I'll tell King Grol-- we're going to go see him-- that you died the most heroic goblin death, worthy of legend. And then you can scamper off and join your friends in the north and tell them about me, the most powerful spellcaster you've ever seen. We'll both be famous."

Gwen produces paper, quill, and ink and draws a rough map of the Sword Coast, Triboar Trail, and Phandalin, hoping that the little goblin can add something meaningful.

OoC: Who knew that starter equipment package had anything useful in it?

Sildar looks to Bandalor and says,"I have been better any aid would be helpful. As far as how did I end up a captive well that is a story. More than five hundred years ago, clans of dwarves and gnomes made an agreement known as the Phandelver's Pact, by which they would share a rich mine in a wondrous cavern known as Wave Echo Cave. In addition to its mineral wealth, the mine contained great magical power. Human spellcasters allied themselves with the dwarves and gnomes to channel and bind that energy into a great forge (called the Forge of Spells), where magic items could be crafted. Times were good, and the nearby human town of Phandalin (pronounced fan-duh-lin) prospered as well. But then disaster struck when orcs swept through the North and laid waste to all in their path.

A powerful force of orcs reinforced by evil mercenary wizards attacked Wave Echo Cave to seize its riches and magic treasures. Human wizards fought alongside their dwarf and gnome allies to defend the Forge of Spells, and the ensuing spell battle destroyed much of the cavern. Few survived the cave-ins and tremors, and the location of Wave Echo Cave was lost.

The three Rockseeker brothers (Gundren, Tharden, and Nundro) recently located an entrance to the long-lost Wave Echo Cave, site of the mines of the Phandelver's Pact.

Klarg, the bugbear who leads this goblin band, had orders to waylay Gundren. I  heard from the goblins that the Black Spider sent word that the dwarf was to be brought to him. I fear I do not know who or what the Black Spider is.

Gundren had a map showing the secret location of Wave Echo Cave, but the goblins took it when they captured him. I believes that Klarg sent the map and the dwarf to the chief of the Cragmaws at a place called Cragmaw Castle. I doesn't know where that might be, but perhaps someone in Phandalin might know.

I have contact in Phandalin a human wizard named Iarno Albrek. The wizard traveled to the town two months ago to establish order there. After the Lords' Alliance received no word from Iarno, I decided to investigate.

That is how I found my way here with Gundren."

Everyone is entranced by the amount of information Sildar has just unloaded on them. Yeemik shakes off his stupor looks at Gwen and says, "I looked at the map but do not recall what was on it. I barley know where I am most of the times I just know wheres I am suppose to be. Sides the map has already gone to the King what good is another one going to to specilay if there aint no mine on it."

Jaskier helps to gather up the loot and make ready for transport, silently agreeing with Imbert.  At the mention of the black spider Jaskier lets out a small spasm and says
"The Black Spider eh?  Do guys think its a moniker to intimidate and instill fear...or like an actual sentient spider?"

Jaskier shivers again and says
"I f**king hate spiders, so if that's the case Bandalor you have my full support but at the end of the day its your blade that will complete the deed.  Anyways, shall I collect the wagons?  Don't want to leave them unattended too long I 'spose."

[OOC] So no crossbows lying about?
This message was last edited by the player at 02:28, Fri 17 Apr 2020.

"Many, many thanks, Sildar.  This is valuable information."  Bandalor lays his hands upon the human, restoring him with a fresh, new cure light wounds.

"You spoke of Phandalin.  Do you know of Sister Garaele, follower of Tymora?  Do you know where I may find her?"

Bandalor tends to Sildar's wounds, then assists with gathering the items of worth for the party.

"Castle Cragmaw.  I don't know why, but this also rings similar to my dreams.  Evil visions of goblins chanting, singing, and lording over a fallen shrine to the morninglord.  It causes me physical pain to recall it, but I think this is what the lord of light has been calling me to.  I suggest we refit in Phandalin, and continue to search for my cousin as the map leads."

Sildar says,"Not really ever heard of a sentient spider but mayhaps. Tis strange creatures in our world. As far as Sister Gaerle. Yes the goddess of luck and travelers is the only temple in Phandalin. She would most likely be there. We shoukd be on our way soon as to make the town."

Gwen sighs. "Yeemik, you'll never be famous." She abandons her cartography efforts and turns back in time to catch the tail end of Sildar's account, and definitely cocks a eyebrow at the mention of the wizard Albrek.

"Okay, so on to Phandalin to rest, gather information, and maybe resupply a bit for the new look of this outing. I only brought two pair of socks. Then we're off to search for Castle Cragmaw, King Grol, and Gundren. Sounds like fun!"

OoC: I feel like we take the cash and supplies, leave the weapons and armor? We could always cache them in case we even need to outfit an army of smelly children. I know Phandalin is small, but I feel like we're missing some hardware. Jaskier and I could definitely use crossbows like he mentioned, and maybe a poleaxe would give Bandalor some options if there's going to be more brawling in close quarters. And maybe this wizard will be a willing collaborator..."

"I'll help with the wagon."  Imbert states and leaves with Jaskier.

[OoC];  Let's take it all, unless there is no room in the wagon.  We might not get much for it but if we can trade all of it for one crossbow it saves us cash.

Jaskier and Imbert retrieve the wagon with little trouble. Everything gets loaded and Sildar takes a look at the sky. "Hmmmm," he says. "We will not make phandalin this day. Perhaps we dhall stay the eve here rest and be off first thing in the morning."

OOC: long reat level up and travel on the morrow.

[OoC]; dibs on first watch