The argument between Beijor and Tempest charged the air like lightning in a storm. Jennet attempted to defuse the verbal altercation, but his joke went awry. Another disagreement brewed quietly over whether the group should press on, or take short rest to recover from their fight with the Froghemoth. Although a short battle, it was a harrowing one that nearly ended tragically for Sprinkle.

A deeper tension ran underneath the surface. Newer members had joined the party, and some who’d traveled longer with the party wondered how this would impact them. Lenelle silently pondered this question. For the moment, the questions were delayed as the group set up camp for a short rest. For now, they needed rest.

---

"... regret?" the elf asked, his curiosity piqued.

"To take leave of the present and dwell on things lost? To lament how such a pass came to be? Such untasted sentiment would be an adventure! Perhaps together we'll travel down that road for the first time, hand in hand, you and I." The bandore swung around to his front and he struck a chord. "But not just now, dearest."

His long fingers picked through a descending minor scale resolving on a G-flat vibrato. His voice joined in harmony, chanting softly.

  "Lay down upon feathers
    Rushes, or reed
    Soft respite from riotous
    rigorous deed.
    For soon again soon again
    striving commence
    'gainst hideous harrowing
    draconid meanace.

   All by one's self
    or two pair'd by two
    Thou mortals' composure
    seek thee renew.
    But imprudent judgment
    and folly eschew,
    No matter puissance
    with which thou subdued:

   Find'eth not chaise chamois
   Within toad's toothed maw."

The lullaby ended, the elf stood, and re-slung his instrument. "Rest well, darlings. While you do I will beg of the woodsy realm to hasten our feet to our quarry and find no snares not of our own making."

With that he turned and lightly skipped off into the foliage, feeling at home under green eaves as he ever did.

---

OOC:
Song of Rest. All PCs gain +1d6HP upon a short rest.

Grog stood guard outside the camp, eyes focused on the direction they knew the dragon's lair to be. The large, silvered glaive resting across one or both of his shoulders as he shifted from one stance to another. The infighting was understandable with tensions high. Pointless, but understandable. Beijor was trying to harvest fruit without tending the seed, while Tempest was ready to tear out the strawberry bushes for not bearing fruit in their first season. Patience in life was not an easy lesson for some to learn.

Grot himself was lacking in patience, in regards to facing the dragon, but the dragon was a source of danger, and Grog had left the farm and taken up a weapon because there were threats that needed dealt with, and people who needed protection from them. Grog was certain there would be other funerals to attend in his future, but he wished no more of them to be at the hands of this foul, winged beast.

Beijor's choice of lyrics were beyond Grog's comprehension. his grasp of the language being weak, but he could appreciate a sound whether he understood the words and meaning or not. It helped to pass the time a bit, short though it was.

Sskith had seen the working of shadow, but had otherwise been engaged with Lanelle, and had not heard most of the quarrel.

Neither he nor his shadow had been touched by the false god, and so as the others rested he took out one of his long knives and began carving away at its hide. The skin was too soft and rubbery for his purpose, but the bones beneath would need to be strong to support such a massive thing. He would make himself a trophy worthy of the name while they rested.

At his side, his echo was vigilant, watching the sky for any trace of the Dragon's return.

Making a shield out of the Froghemouth's bones with my racial feature.  It says I can make Javelins, can we include arrows in that? That's basically a Javelin, right?

Cela cleans the swamp off of her fur and takes a little nap during the song.  She isn't hurt but... you take the chances for rest you can get in between battles like this.

Telric made sure to share the pipeweed to anyone who wanted. Granted it was not powerful enough to disable anyone, but it might put the group in a more friendly mood. Or not, as it was not magic, just nature. He is very interested into making the creature's organs and blood into useful potions, but that would take time.

OOC-What could I make out of the frogmouth's organs? Some sort of strength potion?

Telric and Tara both realized that not only could Seth strip the Froghemoth’s body for weapons, but they could also customize the weapons. The most rudimentary function would be shields, javelins, or darts made from the bones. With a little extra care, body parts such as the hide could be crafted into studded leather armor that provided resistance to fire or lightning damage. The stomach lining could produce a cape or tent that endowed resistance to acid. The tentacles and tongue could be adapted into powerful whips.

The ambitious artificer or spellcaster could craft exotic items from a Froghemoth body. It’s eyes could be brewed into a Potion of Darkvision. The monster’s slime could ultimately produce up to 8 Vials of Oil of Slipperiness! Telric envisioned the value for the party, or the profit he could earn selling such valuable goods!

Tara explained to the others what they could do with the froghemoth's remains.

"...which leads me to be hopeful about the dragon," she added.  "It may, in itself, be as great a treasure in its body as it might from its horde, should it have such a thing."

Sprinkle had enjoyed the silent presence of Tara while she was looking in her book. She had tried to read what was written in it, but had only gained a headache of the endeavor, so she had closed her eyes. The movement of the wizard raising got her to look where she was going and she looked at the froghemont after her lecture, impressed that such an unatural creature could have so many uses.

---

Today: Sprinkle rolled 1 using 1d6.  song of rest HP.

Sskith blinked slowly as Tara spoke, chipping away at the bones of the thing and fashioning a shield.

"Take the ssstrrength, that isssss what the Matriarchssss teach."

He rasped, loud enough for her to hear. His hand passed over the arrows in his quiver, half of which were fletched with brilliant onyx scales rather than feathers.

"Scalessss harder than iron, power in the blood."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:39, Thu 07 Apr 2022.

Tempest watched as the elf sang his song then left the area.  She had no feelings for the elf either way...She was glad the fool was gone, though she did hope he survived out there (she may have disliked him, but she didn't want him dead)

As Tara told them about what could be made, she raised an eyebrow. "Thats pretty clever Tara."

Telric was writing notes about every thing that could be made from the creature.

"At the very least we can make some money off that thing. Assuming our dragon is the poorest version of it's kind and has nothing. Might explain why it's so nasty..." He mused.

Simon finished his sketch, and added various notes about its approximate size, and added some of the comments that Tara and Telric had made about possible uses for it body parts.

He showed the completed drawing to Lenelle, and laughed, "Perhaps I should offer this to the Baron to hang in his dining hall!"

Looking around, he asked out loud, "Are we ready to move on?"

Tempest, ever the warrior, shield in hand, nodded, and looked at Grog, probably the only one more eagre to face this dragon than her. "After you, big guy."

"Mmm, now is time," hefting the weapon over his shoulder to march, Grog returned to the trail toward the protection of innocents.

Sprinkle was surprised how time had flied and when the group decided to move, she had to scramble to put her repaired armor on, wincing from her freshly healed but still tender rib. Twisting this way and that to slip the chain shirt over her head, she caught her hairs in a few of the links and whelped when some got ripped from her head. Finally managing to position the armor correctly on her body, she took her pack and her shield, ready to go.

But she started the walk massaging her head where the hairs had been pulled out.

Tempest, with her warrior training, knew how to don and doff armor (quickly if need be), and had a smile while her sister put hers on. While they walked, she slowed to let her catch up. "You think the little one likes bald spots sis?" The warrior smiled

Tara attempted to help Sprinkle with her armor... a bit tricky, as she wasn't very familiar with it.  At least she wasn't truly of the Fey, so the iron wasn't an issue for her.

"All right," she said.  "Let's do this.  If that thing flies at us, I have a trick to bring it down that might work once, if we're lucky."

Lenelle laughed merrily at that; in a way she hadn't since...well, since yesterday, at least.

"Aye!  Better, I think it should adorn his coat of arms!"

Mostly just grateful no one had gotten eaten, or maimed, she took stock of her possessions, tightened a strap here & there, and then made ready to go, once that was the collective decision.

"The path before usssss."

Sskith said, the expression somewhat lost in translation. He led the way, and to any with eyes to see it, it was clear that he was an expert tracker. He managed to always keep them to the driest bits of trail, keeping them well away from the mud which squelched and sucked at them. His attunement to the land seemed almost supernatural, or else guided by wisdom well in excess of what his lean frame might suggest. Perhaps he was older that he appeared, it was hard to say with such an alien physiology. Whatever it was, he was. masterful hunter, and their journey was made infinitely easier by his guidance.


Woo, nat 20! Indulging a bit.

18:11, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 30 using 2d20+10, dropping the lowest dice only.  Survival + Favored Enemy + Favored Terrain. –

Once the group finished resting, they broke camp and resumed their journey. Telric & Tara—and any experts interested—harvested ample amounts of Froghemoth for future opportunity. They would craft potions, oils, armor, and weaponry from the massive body. The Bullywug watched them leave and sent them off with a friendly wave of his webbed hand.

Soon, Seth scented blood particles of the Baleful Blackfang. Seth knew the smell intimately because of his own tribe’s ordeals with dragons. Echo flew ahead with a squeak, while Gwyl & Nimbus hovered protectively over their own masters. The mosquitoes nipped at the heroes, but Sheila’s salve kept them at bay when used. Although the heady swamp air weighed upon them, their mission held greater weight. They passed on, following Seth in a direction everyone but the twins recognized: the Hag’s oak tree.

Simon laughed out loud. "Indeed, the good baron would be well-represented by a large toad that was more bluster than bite!"

As the party moved forward, Simon walked next to Lenelle, they had been through a lot in the past weeks...would this be the last foray into the unknown, together?

The warlock didn't speak, but enjoyed the calm that the sorceress exuded.

[Telepathy: Nimbus, fly a ways ahead of us, and let me know if you see the dragon.]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:16, Sun 10 Apr 2022.

Tempest heard the chatter, and not knowing the baron, had no comment on the man. But, judging from reactions, she assumed he was less a man of influence and more of ego.

Tempest let Serth lead, and saw his change in demeanor as they came near the place. She drew her sword, ready for what would come

The cleric had been walking beside Tara, simply enjoying her presence and helping her in the more difficult passages when she saw her sister take her sword out. Putting her hand on the wizard shoulder, she whispered.

Stay safe, I am used to fight with Tempest.

Moving forward as her watery claws came out, she adjusted her shield and touched Tempest's shoulder in their prearranged way, silently signaling to the warrior she was close by and ready. Looking at the abandoned house, she looked for dangers, one of her role in the duo, not seeing anything.

Today: Sprinkle rolled 8 using 1d20+6.  perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:02, Sun 10 Apr 2022.

Grog glanced in the direction of the hag's tree home, "Hag tree may needs cut or burn, soon. Is not good memorial."

Jennet nodded his agreement. "Better to burn it. Burn it clean, let the evil out."

"I'll be careful," Tara promised.

"...burning that tree might be hard.  I'd cut it down first, if we can.  Cleaner.  And it would dry out more, too."

If any part of that tree was still alive, burning it could get very smoky, and she had no trust for the smoke it would produce.

Sskith raised his head, curious.

"I did not have time to loot it before... too bussssy saving the wounded Scalesssss."

Didn't hurt to remind them of what he had done.

Simon surveyed the remains of the coven's house as they approached, watching for any movement in the water.

"The tunnel should be in the cellar, Jennet and I have some wonderful memories of being caged up in there...I look forward to visiting it once again."

---

I believe the tree house has already been torched!

Blackthorn:

“My fellow Druids will destroy this tree. Now that we know the source of this land’s problems, we can fortify ourselves against it. The most powerful among us can dispel any magicks of the tree itself.” Blackthorn looked the dead tree over with disgust. “Better that we burn this tree and leave no corruption to spread through the swamp.”

Jennet stops walking and looks at Simon for a moment. "Awwww... my friend. I'm glad you feel the same way." He slaps the pocket warlock affectionately on the shoulder, and then resumes marching in the rearguard position, peery for any other surprises the swamp has to offer.

Telric travelled along with the others, using his staff as an actual walking stick for a change. He volunteers to aide with the burning if need be, but it sounded like druids had taken care of the thing. Not that Telric had been there, but just hearing about the events second hand.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:40, Tue 12 Apr 2022.

"Blackthorn offered to destroy it."  Cela says.  "The Druids will know the best way.  I was planning to visit Marigold before the Dragon arrived.  I can ask her if it's done."

"Well, it's done," said Tara.  "Let's not waste time on the stump.  We've a dragon to deal with."

Sprinkle looked at the little wizard, so decisive when she wanted to. Flashing a quick smile to her, she looked at Simon and Jennet.

The tunnel entrance is probably in that cellar you were in, how do we reach it is the real question. The stump seems to have collapsed.

Blackthorn & Marigold had performed their grim task thoroughly. The Druids burnt the accursed old oak and all the land immediately surrounding it. The  bridge that once led to the islet that harbored the tree no longer remained. They’d even burnt a strip of grass near where the bridge once began. It seemed clear that Blackthorn wanted nothing left of the Hags that could further taint the swamplands.

Sskith and his Echo seemed highly interested in the burned oak and surrounding area, creeping about through the underbrush in an ever widening circle. He practically blended into the underbrush as he moved, his comfort and familiarity with the swamp clear to all.

"Who issss Blackthorn?"

He hissed as his orbit took him by Cela, is curiosity with the Tabaxi evidently still unsated.

Accidentally rolled twice.

First roll was much better.

20:42, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 11 using 1d20+4.  Nature. – [roll=1649821345.3005.364206]

20:42, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 15 using 1d20+4

Grog approved of the hags' abode being no more, "Mmm, is job done well. Onward, then." But still, there was a dragon in need of slaying.

"Nimbus, fly around and tell me is you see anything moving in the water around the tree.

It looks like the druids went above and beyond in removing the taint of the coven from the swamp!

With no bridge, I guess we swim."

The warlock moved to edge of the water and looked around for anything that might want to snack on the group.

---

Simon rolled 7 using 1d20+3 for WIS (Perception).
If Nimbus, or any of the other PCs don't spot anything in the water, Simon will swim to the island/tree stump/whatever remains.

Sprinkle moved to the edge of the water and got her everburning lantern out of her bag, strapping it to her shield with a prearranged system of shark leather straps. This task done, she put her free hand on Simon's arm and smiled.

This is why Nahlazan sent us here to help you, Simon. Let us do the honors.

Opening the flaps of the lantern, she started to walk in the water.

Are you coming sis? Or will I have to face this swamp water by myself?

---

Today: Sprinkle rolled 22 using 1d20+6.  perception
This message was last edited by the player at 12:45, Wed 13 Apr 2022.

Tempest sighed, knowing her sister was right. "Yeah, i'm coming, but if it turbs out like last time and that shark...or in this case, dragon, will you damn listen to me."

Sword and shield in hand, she stepped up to her side. "...and try stay behind me this time - it's not a race." She looked into the water. "...unless somethings chasing us." she muttered.

---

<OOC: Tempest rolled 11 using 1d20+4.  perception check.>

"He's the leader of the nearby Druid grove.  Has your tribe not crossed their path?"

Cela takes a few steps into the swampy water, unhappy with either the sensation of being wet or the smell of it.

Nimbus obeyed her master and soared overhead, but couldn’t discern anything beneath the surface of the river waters. She didn’t spot anything above water, except for a pair of ravens that looked suspiciously familiar to Simon’s eye. Simon swam to the scorched islet without incident, other than an uncomfortably large fish or two brushing against his legs. He surfaced near the  charred husk of the gargantuan tree.

Tempest followed her impetuous twin into the river. Sprinkle fearlessly submerged herself in the river. They wouldn’t fight sharks…at least in the part of the river that was still freshwater. Earlier, Grog told them about Azatch’s brave showing against the giant crocodile. Maybe the Twins would get an opportunity to fight one?

Although Sprinkle or didn’t see anything except enormous Bass fish, the Cleric noticed something more interesting…


Nearby, Cela bristled with the wetting of her fur, but remained ready to help. Gwyl perched on Tara’s left shoulder. He persistently pecked at her every time the ravens flew nearby. Something about one ravens caught Cela’s eye, too.

"...what's going on with those ravens?" Tara asked.  She didn't know, herself, but perhaps one of the others would.  And it was clearly something...

Simon had a small smile on his face as he pulled himself out of the water and onto the charred tree stump. "Breathing underwater is fascinating!"

As he wiped the water from his face and hair, he looked up at the ravens again, they were definitely no behaving as would normal birds.

"Blackthorn! Is that you?" he called.

The raven descended near Simon. The bird shook its feathers furiously, as if it would shake off every last black feather. Instead, the bird shook off avian form, spasming, growing larger before Simon’s eyes. With a pained groan, the raven transformed into Blackthorn!

The Druid’s legs trembled, then he flopped belly first into the grass. For several seconds, his breath came in ragged gasps. Leaning on his elbows, he pushed his dark hair out of his face. When he could speak, the Druid nodded slowly. “Aye, Simon. It is I.”

Swimming in the gloomy water was not as fun as in the clearer ocean and the water tasted earthy through her gills. But she was swimming and that certainly beat walking in the Genasi's mind. Free of the pressure of standing up on her feet, she allowed herself a few seconds of simply luxuriantly floating, letting Tempest take the lead. A surprisingly powerful kick of her legs got her moving, the shield positioned so she could see around her from her everburning flame in the lantern and not hinder her movements.

For a few minutes the sibling swam in concert, like a two fish school, before something grabbed Sprinkle's attention.

<In Aquan> Wait up sis, I see something down there.

Pointing at the base of the tree, she started swimming that way, until she saw what had ticked her curiosity.

The entrance of a tunnel half hidden in the tree roots, big enough for a dragon to pass through.

<In Aquan> I think we found what we were looking for. I'll go warn the others, I know you won't let me stand guard here. Be careful and don't act like a berserk shark!

Quickly swimming up, decompression having no effect on her aquatic physiognomy, her head and shoulders breached the surface in a splash, her hairs briefly  forming a white halo before falling back down.

We found it! The tunnel is down there!

Before Sprinkle heads down below the waves, Telric assits her at assuring the lantern will be solidly attached to the shield. Using his various tools and some water proof plant based glue. "Don't worry, I have a solvent to separate them when you don't need it anymore." He nods to her.

"Are you coming down too, Marigold?"  Cela calls out to the other Raven.  "Or are you going to tease us as a Raven?"

A look of shock crossed Simon's face when the druid fell face-forward upon his transformation back to human form. The warlock dropped to his knees, and helped the young man sit up.

"What's wrong? Are you injured?" Looking back to the shore, and not seeing Sprinkle, Simon calls out, "Telric, Lenelle, come quick!"

The warlock looks to the other raven, "Don't transform if it will hurt you!"

With her relationship to Joshua - and more recently his passed-on mother as well - the man who had been Jason Redfern was almost like family to Lenelle.   She had an as yet unvoiced wish to see his spirit and heart whole again.  Which would could only come to pass if he stayed among the living...

Thinking it a better option than burning a spell of the third tier, Lenelle reached into a pouch at her waist and extracted a small amount of dust.    Sprinkling it upon herself, there was a brief, faint, violet hued mist.

And then her feet lifted from the ground, she rose into the air, and joined Simon with Blackthorn and the other raven-shaped druids.

Using an application of pixie dust to get to the islet

Once she wasted no time.  Dawn hued light once again spilled from within slender fingers, as her magic set to work mending the injuries...

Lenelle Toreth rolled 14 using 2d8+4.  Cure wounds.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:55, Thu 14 Apr 2022.

Lenelle’s healing light suffused Blackthorn, as he released his suffering with each new breath. He nodded gratefully to Lenelle and Simon, accepting the Warlock’s helping hand. “I feel better, now. Thank you, Simon,” he said, then fixed Lenelle with an unwavering eye. “And you, Lady. I understand how you captured my brother’s heart…with your beauty and your benevolence.”

Blackthorn stood with Simon’s help. “Tho’ it comes late, I also offer my condolences for the suffering of your brave companions. Azatch gave his life so that Marigold & I could escape the Dragon. Your stout-hearted Halfing companion provided us time we needed to flee.” At that part, Blackthorn’s eyes lowered in shame.

“I am also sorry to say that Dragonfear hastened our flight. The Dragon scared us so badly we were too addled to resume human shape. Thank the Green-Father that we were too small for its acid breath, but I still breathed in the acrid fumes.”

The Druid looked up with the flintiness that the original group first saw. “I must say that I care little for these monsters that try to steal my breath away.” He noticed Cela calling his companion raven. “I am sorry, Cela, but Marigold has been unable to resume her true form. I fear that the Dragonfear still holds her in its insidious grip. Only a spell of Restorarion can help her…and soon, for if she remains in bird form any longer, she may lose her power to resume her human shape.”

She blushed faintly, but quickly delved into business: "There is no shame.  That monster is a terrible thing to confront; more so when it takes you by ambush.   But we bested it, after it visited one upon us, and go to finish the work, if that's possible." 

"As to the Restoration you mention...we have one among our ranks who can do that." She pointed in Sprinkle's direction. "She and her sibling are elemental nobility - of the water, that ties with your own domain - and here by divine providence to aid in this work." 

Cela offers out her arm to give Marigold a place to land.

By Nahzalan, are they deaf?

Swimming closer to the islet where some of the group was assembled, she called to them again.

We found the cave!

Something was wrong, as Lenelle pointed to her, showing her to a human she didn't know. Coming out of the water, she heard half of the situation. Mentally reviewing her spells, she made a sad face.

Unfortunately I don't have that capacity accessible now, I would need to rest to prepare it. But is your friend acting like an animal or is truly one? I do have a way with animals, I could try to calm him down through other means.

She turned to the warlock.

Tempest is alone underneath the roots of the tree, if I am to stay here for a while, could you go fetch her? Your spell is still active I hope?

She looked at the panicking crow, trying to figure out how she could help.

Grog followed the sisters into the cave. There was nothing he could do about this shifted druid, and if the others did not either, then there was still a dragon that needed to be killed.

Lenelle shook her head, "I don't think we need to be here for a while. Only for the casting of a spell, if anyone has it?  That takes virtually no time at all."  She scanned over the party eyes coming to rest on Telric.

"What about him?  He and his unusual friend have healing magic, of some sort."   

Tempest, under the water, held the shield and sword, looking at the hole, guarding against any movement

When Grog dunked his head, he realized it was most unnatural for Minotaurs to spend time underwater.


OOC:

Simon, is your water-breathing spell still active after a short rest?


 

"If Telric cannot help we would have to wait until tomorrow for Sprinkle to prepare the spell...if I understand divine casting.

If that's the case, then we lose nothing by continuing to the dragon's lair...unless we all die, of course."

Simon looks at Blackthorn, "I know this might pain you, but if Telric cannot help Marigold you should go to Deadwater as fast as you can. Sister Mercion, our companion, Sundos, or Sheila Blackmoor are all there. Between them I have to believe that they can help."

Looking at the wild crow, Sprinkle decided to try something. A life was in play and she couldn't let it go if she could do anything about it. Closing her eyes, she did something she never though about before and took the round pendant in the shape of moving water that she kept near her heart in her armor. She started chanting in Primordial, calling upon Istishia, knowing now that her powers came from the god of water. The sonority of the ancient language felt through the bones of the listener as much as through the ears, she sounded almost like ocean water washing on a sandy beach, her tone calming, as she tried to charm the crazy wild shape druid.

---

Channel Divinity: Charm Animals and Plants

Starting at 2nd level, you can use your Channel Divinity to charm animals and plants.

As an action, you present your holy symbol and invoke the name of your deity. Each beast or plant creature that can see you within 30 feet of you must make a Wisdom saving throw. If the creature fails its saving throw, it is charmed by you for 1 minute or until it takes damage. While it is charmed by you, it is friendly to you and other creatures you designate.
Channel Divinity: Charm Animals and Plants: 1 Action, Wis save DC 15

Sskith made a noise akin to a sharp exhalation of air.

"When we were pale ssshadows of the God, they hid from usssss."

Shadow wasn't quite the right word, but he couldn't yet bring himself to say what his heart told his was the truth.

"When we cast our own shadowssss, we avoided their sssstrength."

He watched the Druid when it appeared with narrow eyes, but in truth he was not frightened by the Skinwalker. The Matriarchs of his own Clan had such wisdom, he had seen it before. He listened, and learned what he could. The blue one's yelling drew his attention though, and he did not hesitate to climb into the water at her beckoning. The deep was the last place on earth he would wish to face the Wyrm, but if they could find its lair before it learned of their presence, they might have a chance.

In reply to Simon (msg # 59):

Telric moved over to the wounded druid. "I can use my staff to aid some of his wounds, but I am no druid or cleric.

Higgins can help slightly, but he too depends on my energy levels and the staff's reserves. Anything I use now is something we dont have for the dragon. That being said, I dont think giving the druid some healing will be too big a sacrifice. Or I could use a potion on him."

Ooc-i can use one of my 1st or 2nd level spells for cure wounds, or I can use a standard healing potion. Given he is a druid, if he comes with us he may have his own healing magic.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:09, Fri 15 Apr 2022.

I also have heals, and I doubt my entangle is going to be worth a damn against a dragon.

Lenelle both understood the urgency of some to go and deal with the dragon, as well as vastly appreciating Sprinkle's attempt to render aid.

She looked on as Sprinkle worked her primeval, aquarian magic -- and while she didn't logically grasp what the elemental priestess was doing, intuitively she had an inkling...

Sprinkle saw that Lenelle already healed Blackthorn, so she sought to help the other Druid trapped in raven form. The intuitive spiritual power didn’t restore Marigold’s human form, but the changed bird calmed considerably. The bird perched on Blackthorn’s shoulder, staring at Sprinkle with human understanding. “Our Archdruid can restore Marigold’s true self. I would meet Sister Mercion and my brother again, soon, though. It has been too long since I saw Joshua’s face.” Blackthorn looked at Simon. “Your party increased in size since we last met. Even without Azatch and Skye, if you repelled the Dragon, then you have strength in numbers.”

I am glad I could help. Honestly, I didn't know if this would work, but I trusted Istishia. It seems I did right.

She smiled to the druid and turned to her party, a little extra sparkle in her eyes.

Come, we have found the entrance to the cave.

Turning back to the water, she entered without hesitations and turned to the group, waiting for them to follow

Well, it was time now, wasn't it?  Tara went in, following Sprinkle.  She still regretted the magic she'd used earlier... but she'd make do  There were always ways.

Simon nodded. "It seems the powers that be provide assistance to those who need it...and we will certainly need it if we are to defeat an angry dragon!"

He shakes the druids hand, "Best of luck to you."

Simon then follows Sprinkle and quickly drops underwater. Anyone who can see him, can see a smile on his face as he bobs just under the surface, marvelling at his ability to breathe underwater.

Cela approaches the druids, and reaches out to pet Marigold's bird form.

"Be careful, and come back.  We'll take care of the dragon. Come see me when this is done."

Marigold cawed happily at Cela’s invitation as the Monk followed her companions into the water. Led by Sprinkle, the heroes plunged into the swamp river. Most of them marveled at the weird sensation of breathing water as if they were breathing air. Simon’s magic truly achieved a memorable moment for many! A few cavorted as they tested a new way of diving, while Sprinkle & Tempest considered it old hat.

Between Simon & Sprinkle, the murky waters were lit enough for them to find their way. Grog snatched back anyone caught in the rivers current. Breathing water didn’t necessarily endow the strength to shrug off currents! Grog impatiently nudged the group toward the underwater passage that Sprinkle & Tempest discovered. Together, they would soon enter what they hoped would be Baleful Blackfang’s lair!

Sskith could not breath water as the Genasi could, but he did not need Scaless known as Simon's magic either. He could hold his breath for a full 1000 beats of his own heart, and the hearts of his people did not beat quickly. His long tail beat powerfully behind him, carrying him swiftly forward with each stoke.

He hoped only that the lair was dry, for if it too was underwater they would need to retreat.

Tempest watched as people entered the water, nodding at Sprinkle. The two had experience fighting underwater, but she noted the others looks of surprise, uncomfort and anxiousness. She couldn't help but smile a slight smile as she moved forward towards the cave, always close to her sister

Tara stayed a bit further back.  Breathing water like this was a surprise, but... her life was full of strange things, and this, simply another new experience.  She wouldn't be thrown off by it.

In the water, Sprinkle was obviously in her element as she swam down to her sister, illuminating the way for the others, turning frequently to make sure they were still following. Smiling grimly to Tempest when everyone was near the cave, she pointed in.

Let's go kill a dragon

Thanks to Simon's ritual, Telric was able to breath underwater like the others. He was a fairly good swimmer on his own, and kept up with everyone but those born to the water. His own goggles of night will be able to see in the darkest areas, and keep track of the others as he followed along.

If breathing water felt strange, then hearing Tempest speak underwater seemed stranger still. The Twins led the party to the cave. Most of the party felt apprehensive about facing the Black Dragon again, but a few felt eager for a second opportunity. The opportunity began at the mouth of a ten foot wide cave hidden among the roots that broke the soil underwater.

Simon climbed out of the water, slightly exhilarated by the strange experience, but also worried about what was to come. He reached to help anyone who need assistance in leaving the water.

For a moment, a perplexed look crossed his face, "Damn, I'm an idiot!" he muttered quietly.

"Disapparate!" The word of power had no apparent effect, if anyone was watching; then a moment later, "Apparate!". A small blue whirlwind appeared and was gone an instant later, and where it had been, Nimbus the raven was now there.

"If a dragon is going to kill me, you might as well be here to watch, Nimbus."

Looking ahead at the dark tunnel, the warlock, again whispered, "I'm sure it knows we are here...nonetheless, let's try to be quiet, and keep the light to the back for now."

"If it did, it would have taken ussss in the lake when we were helplessssss as Hatchlingsss."

Sskith whispered back, creeping forward and seeking to put some space between himself and the others. Not so much that he was alone, and especially not so that he was leading the way, but well enough that they were not all clumped up in one easy to melt group.

With her lantern, Sprinkle was certainly a target, so she partially closed it, reducing the light emanating from her shield. She was not comfortable in the gloom, but it was better than in complete darkness. Still, she stayed in the middle of the pack, ready to go help in front, while not creating too much light so they would be seen before seeing. She silently put her hand on Tempest shoulder, before nodding to her and stepping back.

Lenelle could see - illumination or no - albeit those areas devoid of it were as if painted over in gloomy degrees of grey.

She strove to take in as much detail as possible; seeking anything out of place, or otherwise noteworthy.

"How keen are their senses?" she asked of Seth, Simon, anyone who knew the answer.  "Is invisibility of any value?" Really, a question she should've asked much earlier...

Sskith made that snorting noise again, like a sudden huff of air or a quiet bark.

"Keener than any of oursssss, but more than that and I do not know."

14:05, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 9 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  History of Dragons.

"I honestly don't know. I suppose it can't hurt to try!"
Simon looks around and sees that group looks ready to move on. "I will likely regret this, but I think I should act as the scout. While I am no thief-in-the-night, moving silently...I can see quite clearly, for some distance, in the dark.

If the rest of you keep 10 or 15 paces [30 to 45 feet] behind me, those with darkvision should be able to see me, and any signals I make."

---

Devil's Sight: You can see normally in darkness, both magical and non-magical, to a distance of 120 feet.

Tara nodded.

"I can do that," she said.  Still, for caution's sake, she shifted so that she wasn't in a direct line with the others, as best she could-- that acid breath was a distinctly unpleasant memory.

Simon hastily organized a marching order, two abreast so they could move effectively through the cave. Tempest & Grog had his back, while Cela, plus  the spellcasters and healers, walked in the middle. Seth would guard from the rear flank. Shortly after Simon placed his marching orders, they heard the noise from ahead.

Snarls and a heavy shuffle of feet. Whatever caused the noise sounded big.

Tempest, Sword and shield ready, wasn't entirely happy with simon leading, but his reasoning was sound. Looking back at sprinkle, she nodded. "Stay behind me....if anything happens, you know what to do." She looked at Grog, the Minotaur by her side and nodded as the two walked slowly behind Simon.

Tempest heard the sound of shuffling and snarl, and paused, her eyes closing so as to focus. She knew whatever it was, was big.

...but she was ready

As the sounds of something large moving about echoed through the tunnel, Simon held his hand up, signalling the group to stop.

The warlock moved to the right-side wall of the tunnel and slowly and carefully moved forward, until he could peer left and right into the larger cave ahead.

---

Simon rolled 17 for Stealth check.

Sskith stayed well back, reaching for the arrows within his quiver that were fletched not with feathers, but with what looked to be onyx black scales.

Sprinkle nodded to Tempest when she moved back. The noises the big creature in front of them was doing were making her hair raise, but she took a few deep breaths to center herself and prepare to do what she had to do, her flowing water symbol warm on her chest.

Telric readied Higgins, using his tiny form that could fit in the man's pocket. Although an arcane cannon, Higgin's protector area blasts did not require the construct to see anything. In fact, he activated the cannon noe in order to give the group some shielding before encountering the beast.

ooc-08:56, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 8 using 1d8+2. everybody gets 8 temp hp!
This message was last edited by the player at 12:57, Mon 25 Apr 2022.

Grog let Simon scout ahead, following behind only slowly and at a distance.

Tara slowly advanced, letting the better-armored folks take the lead.  Better safe than burned horribly by acid, after all...

Simon padded through the cave with a catlike grace that Cela noticed with mild appreciation! The tunnel led into a larger cavern, and Simon’s eyes widened when he saw what caused the ruckus…

As Simon peers around the corner to the right, any one in the party that can see him will notice that he freezes for a moment. He turns and looks back at the group, holds both hands up to reiterate they should stop moving.

The warlock then slowly tries to work his way back to the party, carefully anyone that can see his features will see that he is shaken.

If it sounds like the creature is moving toward the party, Simon will break into a run, and shout, "It's a bloody hydra!"

If Simon cannot tell if the creature has heard him, he will continue to move "quietly" toward the party, and whisper, "It's a bloody hydra! Just around the corner!"

---

Simon rolled 10 using 1d20+3 for Stealth.

Does Simon know anything about it?
Rolled 14 using 1d20 for knowledge of hydra, which equals 17 for Arcana or History, or 14 for Nature or Survival.

If it is to the left of the tunnel, I will edit the post.

If the latter:    Lenelle nodded solemnly, knowing very little of the beasts; something about far too many heads for any one creature, and wracking her mind for anything else she might have heard...    Lenelle Toreth rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  History.  I'll take 'Hydras in History for 200 gold pieces!'   JK...it's my lone knowledge skill, and I never get to roll it...

Or if the former: Stars and moon! she mouthed, fingers slipping over the crystal focus in her belt pouch, words of spells coming instinctively to mind, waiting just long enough to see what the others would do, and what she could best do, based upon that...

Tempest watched as Simon walked off, then came back, shaken and scared. The Genesis had a confused lol on her face. “Hydra. What is that?”

"...Lots of heads which regrow," said Tara.  "You need fire, like trolls.  I have fire, at least."

But more precious magic lost on a fight which wasn't even their greatest threat... a painful prospect, surely.  And yet, they had to be alive to defeat the dragon.

An Hydra? Its not the dragon's lair?

Racking her brain, she tried to determine what she knew about hydras.

---

Today: Sprinkle rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  nature roll

Simon barely managed to sneak back and alert his friends before the Hydra heard him! Suddenly, everyone heard a chorus of shrieks that froze their blood! The heavy steps from up ahead signaled the arrival of the many-headed horror! Five crocodilian heads peered around the entrance to the cavern, hissing when they saw the party! They burst into cacophonous shrieks and snarls, hungry for the flesh of these intruders!

OOC:

Everyone who rolled a check knows that the Hydra replaces any heads slain by growing 2 more!

Sprinkle & Simon both know that the monster dies if all heads die.

"Oh bloody hells..." Telric says, glad he already had called out Higgins. Not to mention the gizmo was small enough to fit in his pocket.

OOC:
11:59, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 6 using 1d20+2.  Initiative .

"...and if we don't have fire?".  Cela asks Tara.  Maybe this creature wasn't the right one to attack up close.

13:05, Today: Cela rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  init.

"It has needs less heads? I will do." Grog hefted the large glaive and made ready to fight the dragon with extra heads instead of wings.

12:47, Today: Grog rolled 18 using 1d20+2.  Initiative. – [roll=1651081625.62107.356431]

Umberlee's Curse! We need to destroy all its heads to kill it, but they will grow back!

Thinking furiously, she wondered what she could do against such a monster.

---

Today: Sprinkle rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  init.

14:43, Today: Jennet rolled 7 using 1d20+4 ((3)).

Jennet was too totally paying attention!

Tempest, hearing Grog speak, smiled. "Sounds like fun." She muttered, twirling her icy sword with shield in her other hand  she followed Grog.

---

<OOC: Tempest rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Iniative.>

Simon shouted to the group, "Every time a head is cut off, two more grow back...and it heals!

The only way to stop it is to hit it with fire constantly!"

Simon moved further back into the cave, to allow the sword swingers to engage the beast directly. "Mysticus!" he shouted sending two beams of bluish energy at the hydra.

---

Simon rolled 16 using 1d20+3 for Initiative.

Free: Shout information on hydras.
Move: Up to 30 feet back, behind the melee fighter.
Action: Cast Eldritch Blast.

Simon rolled 23 for 11 force damage and 18 for 11 force damage using Eldritch Blast plus 3 thunder damage for Genie's Wrath; total 25 damage.

22:21, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 22 using 1d20+2.  Initiative

"There is the elemental, if this gets ugly!" Lenelle reminded Simon. "We'd need to disengage en masse, though, if it comes to it!"

Meanwhile, she hurled twin lances of flame, one off its mark, while the other struck true, but to underwhelming effect...

Lenelle Toreth rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  firebolt.
Lenelle Toreth rolled 9 using 1d20+7.
Lenelle Toreth rolled 6 using 2d10.  firebolt damage.
Twinned spell:  1 sorcery point spent

This message was last edited by the player at 18:24, Thu 28 Apr 2022.

OOC:

First, let’s establish Initiative.

Initiative Order:

Lenelle
Seth
Cela
Grog
Tempest
Sprinkle
Simon
Hydra
Tara
Jennet
Telric

17:00, Today: Jennet rolled 18,8,16,4 using 1d20+4,1d6+2,1d20+4,1d4+2. STAB (These are thrown weapon attacks, to clarify, unless I can move in for sneak.)

I've got a very limited amount of fire, and I want to save it for when the hydra's down-- or the dragon.

I have no idea how to sneak attack a hydra.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:10, Fri 29 Apr 2022.

Sskith's hand snapped back to the arrows fletched with grey goose feathers, snapping one out of his quiver and notching it to his bow string. He drew back, and at his side has Echo let loose a tiny roar as it charged the massive Hydra. He loosed, and in time with the arrow's flight there was a crackle of lightning in his echo's maw. Lightning surged along the arrows as it flew threw the air, slamming into the beast's flanks. Another arrow followed the first, though it was not infused with the Drake's breath.

Hit on a 17 and 18 for 11 piercing and 2 lightning damage.

Drake misses.

15:55, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 17 using 2d8+4+1d6 ((7,4,2)).
15:54, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 18 using 1d20+7.  Attack 2.
15:54, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 17 using 1d20+7.  Attack 1.
15:57, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 11 using 1d20+6.  Bite

Looking at the terrifying beast, Sprinkle shook her head to regain her senses, and started forward, shaking a little.

Cover me sis, this fight can't last too long!

Getting closer, she called upon her great great great grand mother and a ball of black, oily water appeared in her hand, that she splashed on the hydra's leg, hoping for it to spread.

---

Cast Bestow curse on the Hydra, Wis save DC 15 : If it fails, the Hydra needs to do a Wis save DC 15 each turn to have its action or does nothing.

Bestow Curse
3rd Level Necromancy
Cast Level 3rd
Customize
Casting Time: 1 action
Range/Area: Touch
Components: V, S
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
Attack/Save: WIS 15
Source: PHB, pg. 218

You touch a creature, and that creature must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or become cursed for the duration of the spell. When you cast this spell, choose the nature of the curse from the following options:

    While cursed, the target must make a Wisdom saving throw at the start of each of its turns. If it fails, it wastes its action that turn doing nothing.


A remove curse spell ends this effect.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:23, Fri 29 Apr 2022.

Tempest, at her sister's side, saw the heads and grimaced. She had never seen anything like this before, and waded in, her shield in one hand, sword in the other. With Sprinkle calling out, she answered without hesitation. "Don't I always?"

She stepped in, one strike of the sword flashing with a blue arc, the second reversing in a flash with the magical icy sword.

---

<OOC: Action - Attack twice with sword

Tempest rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  attack - longsword.
Tempest rolled 3 using 1d8+2.  damage - longsword.
Tempest rolled 2 using 1d6.  cold damage.

Tempest rolled 20 using 1d20+5.  attack - longsword.
Tempest rolled 6 using 1d8+2.  damage - Longsword.
Tempest rolled 6 using 1d6.  cold damage.

Bonus Action - None

Interception Action - If anyone within 5 feet of me is attacked will intercept.

Tempest rolled 4 using 1d10+3.  interception.

4 less damage>

Grog charged in at the wingless-dragon-thing. As he closed the distance, runic tattoos flared with a pale yellow-white light. His fur covered most of them, but the hair that had been burned off by the dragon's acidic breath revealed dark skin underneath and those runes showed through clearly.

Move: get within 10 feet of the hydra
Bonus: Giant's Might
Action: Attack with the glaive
Attack 1: Miss AC 11 for 12 Slashing
Attack 2: Hit AC 18 for 16+4=20 slashing damage (silver weapon)

02:30, Today: Grog rolled 4 using 1d6.  Giant's Might Damage. – [roll=1651390242.63103.356431]
02:29, Today: Grog rolled 11,12,18,16 using d20+7,2d10+4,d20+7,2d10+4.  Glaive Attacks. – [roll=1651390176.98184.356431]

Cela was going to stay back at the talk of burning the Hydra, but when Tempest wades in with her sword, Cela approaches the beast and kicks at it's side.


17:15, Today: Cela rolled 8 using 1d6+3.  damage (only one of these has a chance at hitting).
17:14, Today: Cela rolled 7 using 1d20+6.  attack 3.
17:14, Today: Cela rolled 15 using 1d20+6.  attack 2.
17:14, Today: Cela rolled 9 using 1d20+6.  attack 1.

The heroes unleashed a fearsome barrage against the Hydra! Magical & mundane Missile alike struck the monster, while the most fearless members of the party engaged the Hydra in close contact battle. The Hydra struck back, though, each head snapping at Tempest& Grog with powerful jaws filled with sharp teeth!

OOC:

The Hydra resisted Sprinkle’s spell. Tempest blocked one of the attacks on Grog.

18:07, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 15 using 1d10+5.  Bite Damage (Grog).
18:07, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 9 using 1d10+5.  Bite Damage (Tempest, Correction: Bite #2).
18:05, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 8 using 1d10+5.  Bite Damage (Tempest).
18:00, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 27 using 1d20+8.  Head #5 Bite.
18:00, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 17 using 1d20+8.  Head #4 Bite.
18:00, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 16 using 1d20+8.  Head #3 Bite.
18:00, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 27 using 1d20+8.  Head #2 Bite.
17:59, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 19 using 1d20+8.  Head #1 Bite.

In reply to The Dungeonmaster (msg # 115):

When one of the Hydra's heads closes in on Temptest, Telric spins his staff to attack the creature. However, it dodges away both of his strikes with the glowing staff. Making sure he is close to both Grog and Tempest, Higgins activates in Telric's pocket. Casting its protective energy over its maker and the two warriors fighting the hydra.

OOC:
Using my reaction before my turn to attack hydra using my pole arm mastery feat.

Miss

Using my action to cast booming blade on my staff to attack said head.

Miss.

Using my bonus action to active Higgins, and everyone within 10' of Telric gains 10 Temp HP if they had less than that. Mostly that will be Tempest and Grog, which Telric will stay close to.

20:38, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 10 using 1d8+2.  Higgins group temp HP.

20:38, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 13 using 1d20+7.  Booming blade on Damaged Hydra head.

20:37, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 11 using 1d20+7.  Reaction attack for Head attacking Tempest.

PM
This message was last edited by the player at 14:01, Fri 13 May 2022.

Fire.  Fire was what they needed, and Tara could provide that, at least.  She spoke words of power, and a trio of scorching rays struck at the creature!  How much harm they did wasn't the point-- as long as she burned it enough to stop its heads from regrowing.

Scorching Ray time!  At another time, I might have changed the element, but this is just fine right now.


22:34, Today: Tara Inkfingers rolled 7 using 4d6.  FIRE.

22:33, Today: Tara Inkfingers rolled 18,11,18 using d20+6,d20+6,d20+6.  Scorching Ray.

Well, the fire damage was pathetic, but it is fire damage, so....

Pm
This message was last edited by the player at 04:44, Fri 13 May 2022.

PM
This message was last edited by the player at 04:42, Fri 13 May 2022.

Tempest felt the bites from the Hydra deeply, wincing as the teeth pierced her armor, one hurting her arm, the other her leg. The wounds, though painful, did little to slow her down. She none the less grimaced through the pain her sword leading the way

---

<OOC: Action - Attack twice with Frostbyte

Tempest rolled 9 using 1d20+5.  attack - Frostbyte (attack 1) #

Tempest rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  attack - Frostbyte (Attack 2)

Tempest rolled 7 using 1d8+2.  damage - Frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 5 using 1d6.  frost damage - frostbyte.

Bonus Action - None>

OOC:

Initiative Order:

Lenelle
Seth
Cela
Grog
Tempest
Sprinkle
Simon
Hydra
Tara
Jennet
Telric




IC:

The sudden threat of the Hydra galvanized everyone into immediate attack formation! Five fearsome heads snapped viciously in anticipation of a hearty meal. Several members of the group knew the challenge that they faced. Hydras were ferocious, deadly, and hard to kill. Luckily, several of the party knew its weakness, too.

Lenelle led the charge by hurling twin Firebolts at the Hydra! Although she missed with one, the other fiery missile singed the monster’s second head! The Hydra head roared and reared back.

Seth took advantage of his distant position and deftly nocked arrows. One after the other, they flew and struck the Hydra! The first arrow hit with an infusion of lightning, the arrowhead sparkling as it sank into the monster’s scaled flesh. The second arrow was no magical, but no less damaging, eliciting a pained roar. Echo, the miniature Drake, distracted the Hydra with a tiny gust of lightning from his maw.

As one of her companions positioned herself with her sword, Cela dashed forward and lashed out with a kick that noticeably bruised the Hydra!

Nearby, Runes glowed on tattoos as Grog invoked Giant’s Might.  The Minotaur swelled in size to 10 feet tall, his already prodigious muscles bulging with inhuman strength! Grog swung his Glaive in two blows, the 2nd sinking deeply into the Hydra’s 2nd neck! The Glaive lopped off the monster’s head, which wouldn’t grow back, thanks to Lenelle’s fire damage!

Tempest leapt into the fray next, her enchanted longsword gleaming in silvery flashes as she swiftly hacked at the 3rd neck! The sword bit into the creatures neck twice. Ice crystals formed in the wounds.

Never far from her twin, Sprinkle conjured a glob of oily looking water. She flung the glob at the Hydra, intending to Bestow A Curse that would daze and hinder the monster. Unfortunately, the Hydra proved resistant to any attempts to charm or daze it.

Simon reminded his friends to keep burning the Hydra to blunt its healing ability. He conjured twin Eldritch Bolts that boomed thunderously with the power of his Elemental Patron. The beams of blue energy hit the 1st head so hard that it decapitated the head it struck! However, the group saw two lumps rapidly bubbling in the stump*!

The heroes unleashed a fearsome barrage against the Hydra! Magical & mundane Missile alike struck the monster, while the most fearless members of the party engaged the Hydra in close contact battle. The Hydra struck back, though, each head snapping at Tempest & Grog with powerful jaws filled with sharp teeth! The teeth bit painfully into Tempest, who took a 2nd attack because she courageously interposed herself between one of the heads & Grog. Where Simon had severed a head, two more instantly grew into place with alarming speed!

That didn’t discourage Tara, though! The Witch kept her head and remembered what she knew about its vulnerability to Fire.
Tara cast Scorching Ray and sent three sizzling beams toward the Hydra! Fire struck the 3rd head, charring it so badly that the head and scales burned black! Like the head that Lenelle hit, this one was cauterized and wouldn’t regenerate!

Jennet kept the Hydra’s attention off Tara by distracting it with a ranged attack! He threw two of his daggers with expert precision, sinking them into the monster like darts in a board!

Meanwhile, Telric swung his staff at the Hydra! The creature stepped out of the way and the staff missed. However, the Artficer still proved his usefulness by magically bolstering the vitality of himself, Tempest, & Grog!


OOC:

*I’m ruling that you need to decapitate heads and cauterize the stumps individually to stop its head regeneration. General fire damage against its body prevented the Hydra regaining HP with the 2 new heads, though.

Tempest took 17 Bite Damage, Grog took 15 Bite Damage.

Lenelle burned the Head that Grog lopped off; it won’t regrow any more.
Tara badly burned the head that Tempest slashed. One called shot permanently disables it, too.
Simon severed the 1st head, but 2 more grew back. Still at 5 heads for the Hydra! :p


 
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:04, Mon 16 May 2022.

Grog continued to take swings with the massive glaive, cutting into the creature as deeply as he could with the large blade.


Move: as needed to stay in melee range, if positioning changes
Action: Attack with Giant Silver Glaive
 - Attack 1 hits AC 14 for 13 slashing damage
 - Attack 2 hits AC 18 for 12+2=14 slashing damage
Bonus: none

23:17, Today: Grog rolled 2 using 1d6.  Giant's Might Damage.
23:17, Today: Grog rolled 14,13,18,12 using d20+7,2d10+4,d20+7,2d10+4.  Glaive Attack.

Sprinkle was dismayed to see the black water simply drip down the scaly skin of the hydra and she mentally cursed the beast, as that was one of her most powerful spell that was wasted. She couldn't stay inactive against the monster that seemed to have forgotten that she was right beside it, and, having no fire in her spell arsenal,  she extended her watery claws to strike the beast, at the same time invoking a spectral shark to bite the monster.

---

Move to follow the hydra if needed, staying on its side.

Action, primal savagery, 18 to hit for 16 poison damage.

Bonus action, cast (reskinned) spiritual weapon, 17 to hit for 5 force damage.

Sprinkle rolled 18,16,17,5 using 1d20+7,2d10,1d20+7,1d8+3.  primal savagery and spiritial weapon attack & damage.

Spurred by seeing two of her compatriots ripped by the thing's fangs, Lenelle grew more determined to be effective.

She watched Grog in particular, closely; awaiting to see if the bullish behemoth might again decapitate one or more of the heads.  She held her own attack till after he'd swung.  And then:

Again, twin lances of flame leapt from the slender fingers of the sorceress; aiming for any available stumps.   One of them slightly off;  but in Lenelle's case, that was never conclusive.   As had happened before, there was the faintest nudging of her arm.  A small correction made by the unknown power that had blessed the young celestial scion...

Holding my turn till after Grog (After Grog...isn't that a movie? One where everyone gets drunk?)
Twinned spell;  cantrip, 1 sorcery point
Lenelle Toreth rolled 16 using 1d20+7.  firebolt.
Lenelle Toreth rolled 13 using 1d20+7.  ditto  Total = 15 (see below)
Lenelle Toreth rolled 2 using 2d4. +2 to hit, blessed by the gods;
Lenelle Toreth rolled 12 using 2d10.  firebolt damage.
Lenelle Toreth rolled 12 using 2d10. ditto
Total damage = 24

Tempest again winced as the heads of the hydra attacked - it was clear that their estimation of two heads growing back when one was severed was accurate. She doubted the claim, but her injuries confirmed it.

She none the less renewed her attacks with her sword. One swing bounced off the hardened scales, but her second swing hit with a resounding crunch of scales under her blade.

---

<OOC: Action - Attack Twice using Frostbyte

Tempest rolled 15 using 1d20+5.  Attack - Frostbyte (Attack 1).

Tempest rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  Attack - Frostbyte (Attack 2).

Tempest rolled 8 using 1d8+2.  Damage - Frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 2 using 1d6.  Frost Damage.
Tempest rolled 2 using 1d8. Superiority Die

Total damage - 10 slashing, 2 cold damage

Second attack will use Superiority Die to enact Menacing attack. Wis DC 13 or target is frightened  of me until the end of my next turn.

Bonus Action - Second wind

Tempest rolled 11 using 1d10+5.  second wind.

Heal 11 hp>
This message was last edited by the player at 04:13, Mon 16 May 2022.

These Scaleless did not hunt like the Thralls of Sesskrith.

He watched in amazement as they charged the Hydra, braving its many angry maws to try and cut into it with sword and spear. He supposed he should be grateful, for there was no place for him to truly run in this lair. The ways the Matriarchs had taught him to hunt would not work here. He whispered a word of thanks as he notched another arrow, sending first one shaft and then another flying through the air to strike the thing's underbelly. At its feet, his Echo dodged in and out, harrying but unable to get a good bite.

Action: Shoot twice, hitting on a 23 and a 24 for a measly 13 damage (9 piercing, 3 lightning)
Bonus - My Drake misses

20:05, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 13 using 2d8+4+1d6 ((4,1,4)).
20:04, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 10 using 1d20+6.  Drake chomp.
20:04, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 24 using 1d20+7.  Bow 2.
20:04, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 23 using 1d20+7.  Bow 1

"Mysticus!" Simon shouted into the din of battle, sending twin bolts of blue-tinged energy at the hydra.

[Telepathy: "Nimbus, watch the water at the back of this cave, call me if you see anything emerge. I fear the dragon might attack from the rear."]

---

Simon rolled 14, for 12 force damage and 20, for 4 force damage with Eldritch Blast.
Genie's Wrath adds 3 thunder damage.

Roaring like a mountain lion, Cela sprung at the remaining Hydra heads! Furred fists hit the scaled neck with deadly precision! The jaws of her closest companions dropped when they saw the damage she inflicted with just her fists. Channeling her Ki, Cela’s fists hit again in a blur almost impossible to see! She pummeled the neck furiously, expecting to hit hard enough to decapitate another head!




OOC:

I’m rolling for Cela and using 1 Ki Point for her Flurry of Fists!

21:45, Today: The Dungeonmaster, on behalf of Cela, rolled 6 using 1d8+3.  Critical Hit Bonus Damage .
21:45, Today: The Dungeonmaster, on behalf of Cela, rolled 6 using 1d8+3.  Flurry #2 Damage .
21:45, Today: The Dungeonmaster, on behalf of Cela, rolled 5 using 1d8+3.  Flurry #1 Damage .
21:44, Today: The Dungeonmaster, on behalf of Cela, rolled 10 using 1d8+3.  Attack #2 Damage .
21:44, Today: The Dungeonmaster, on behalf of Cela, rolled 11 using 1d8+3.  Attack #1 Damage .
21:43, Today: The Dungeonmaster, on behalf of Cela, rolled 26 using 1d20+6.  Flurry #2.
21:43, Today: The Dungeonmaster, on behalf of Cela, rolled 16 using 1d20+6.  Flurry #1.
21:43, Today: The Dungeonmaster, on behalf of Cela, rolled 20 using 1d20+6.  Unarmed Strike #2.
21:43, Today: The Dungeonmaster, on behalf of Cela, rolled 19 using 1d20+6.  Unarmed Strike #1.

It all happened too quickly. Sethreleased another flight of arrows that sunk into the Hydra’s underbelly. Once again, Grog swung his Glaive, cleaving at another Hydra neck! Lenelle held her magical attack until her Minotaur friend got in a few meaningful licks. Then, she cast a Firebolt that finished off the head that Grog hacked on!

The Genasi Twins, Tempest & Sprinkle, followed Lenelle & Grog’s example of teamwork. Tempest spun in her death-dance, her Frostbyte gleaming as it bit into scaled neck. Icicles formed wherever the enchanted blade struck. Not to be outdone by her sister, Sprinkle displayed unexpected savagery by clawing at the Hydra’s neck also attacked by her sister. She weakened it with her poison, then summoned a spectral shark that swam through the air. With a similar savagery, the Spiritual Weapon CHOMPED into Hydra neck with translucent teeth. Sprinkle’s shark bit off the head with one snap of its jaws!

Simon kept up the unrelenting attack with more Eldritch Bolts! The thunderous rage of his Patron echoed in the cave as the blue bolt smashed into the Hydra. Nearly everyone present started when Cela roared, leaping onto the heads targeted by Simon! Her furred fists struck in a rapid blur as she summoned her precious Ki in a dazzling Flurry of Blows! Within seconds, her fists became bloodied as she hit the Hydra neck so hard and so fast that its remaining heads snapped off!

The Hydra groaned and collapse on its side! Tara, Telric, & Jennet rushed on the fallen beast to finish it off. The Hydra was dead!

In reply to The Dungeonmaster (msg # 130):

Telric starts a magic bonfire, which the others can insure to burn each neck-stump. Just to insure it does not grow back. Even as he moved the fire to diffent parts of the huge beast, Higgns crawled on its tiny legs to each of the wounded. Releasing a field of protective healing to insure everyone was as healthy as possible.

OOC-anyone without temp hp will get up to 10 temp hp.

Simon gulped air, as the battle abruptly ended. His eyes searched the tunnel ahead for any sign of the black dragon.

The warlock moves forward, closer to the body of the headless hydra.

He nods to the artificer, "Thank you, Telric," as the odd magic washes over him.

"I am very worried that the dragon has not appeared. I can hope that it was injured enough in our previous battle that it is not ready to meet us. But I think that is overly-optimistic. More likely we have been tricked." Simon gestures with his head to the water behind them, where Nimbus continues to keep watch.

He looks at the wounded front-line warriors, "Grog, Tempest, are you able to continue or do you need healing?

We should press on quickly."

"We go to kills a dragon. Would be good to have healings, but will kills a dragon with or not."

OOC: 12 damage, happy to have it healed, won't let it stop me if it's not

"I was saving it for the dragon, but I don't think my entangle would slow it down very long. Here..."

Cure Wounds I

02:17, Today: Jennet rolled 8 using 1d8+2.  CURE WOUNDS. – [roll=1654417061.15106.361868]
This message was last edited by the player at 08:18, Sun 05 June 2022.

Tempest sighed, her longsword at her side.  The battle had taken its tole, but she would not admit to that. "I am injured, but can move on if we must."

Sprinkle touched her sister, healing water flowing from her hand to the fighter. "Did you already forget I'm here for you? Did your blood lust take your mind again?" She winked and asked around "Is anyone else injured? We should explore the rest of this cave, maybe the dragon is further in?"

---

Cast level 2 cure wound on Tempest, for 17 HP healed

Today: Sprinkle rolled 17 using 2d8+3.  cure wounds.

They were not short on healing magic, this troupe, for which she was thankful.   Enabling Lenelle to reserve her own incantations for other use.

She frowned at Simon's words, fearing it was too likely the case.

"Aye. Let's move on, now that wounds are mended, if the answer to Sprinkle's question is 'no,'" she said softly, eyeing the rest for further sign of injury.  And ready to  move if there was none.

Sskith did not trust this one bit, but he had been foreseeing doom and death in every falling droplet of water since they had set out. He had to admit that the Scaleless had felled the beast swiftly, and under any other moon would have stayed behind to harvest fine trophies from it. They were within the Dragon's lair though, and he would not give in to such instincts.

"It would not sssurender itsss nest to usssss so easily."

He hissed, agreeing with Simon's assessment.

"Godsssblood or no, I will find itsss scent."

He began sniffing the air, as if he could track the thing by scent alone. In truth, he could, though the craft of it was so much more than just smell. he opened himself up to the primordial forces of the world, and they whispered to him their secrets.

Spending a 1st level spell slot to use

Primeval Awareness - PHB, pg. 92
As an action, you can expend one ranger spell slot (1 minute per level of spell slot) to sense whether any aberrations, celestials, dragons, elementals, fey, fiends, or undead are present within 1 mile of you (or within up to 6 miles if you are in your favored terrain). This feature doesn’t reveal the creatures’ location or number.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:23, Mon 06 June 2022.

OOC:

Give me Perception checks if you’re searching the cave.

Seth, I’ll let you know soon in my IC response.

 

"Aye, let's continue on," said Tara.  She begrudged each lost slice of magic, wasted along the way, but she'd make the best of it, one way or another.

Grog thanked Jennet for the healing, then set out in search of a dragon.

22:07, Today: Grog rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  Perception. – [roll=1654484841.3954.356431]

Tempest looked at her sister with a frown. "You should have saved your magic sister." She reached over and picked up her shield, but smiled. "....but thanks. And i always know your here."

At Grogs side, Tempest, sword and shield in hand, looked around as she stepped at the minotaurs side

---

<OOC: Tempest rolled 24 using 1d20+4.  perception check.>

Lenelle bit her lip, hazarding over the use of another spell, and then decided; proceeding to vanish from sight.  Cast: Invisibility

"I'm coming with you two, I will cover you," she said nearby to Tempest.

She would attempt to aid them in dragon-finding as well; but her attention was more wrapped up in casting the spell and then not making noise...

Lenelle Toreth rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  perception.
Lenelle Toreth rolled 22 using 1d20+5.  stealth. +invisibility spell
This message was last edited by the player at 20:09, Mon 06 June 2022.

Grog and Tempest ventured around the corner into the cavern where the Hydra had lurked. Telric and Simon remained behind with Tara to harvest useful parts from the Hydra corpse. Lenelle cast her spell, vanishing from sight. Her footsteps were unheard, but her attention too focused on covering her companions to spot any useful clues.

When they turned the corner…
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:31, Tue 07 June 2022.

[Telepathy to Nimbus] "Stay and watch the water. Call me if you see any dangerous creature appear."

Seeing Grog, Tempest, and Lenelle moving forward, Simon curses under his breath, before speaking to the others, "We are meant to move as a group not a collection of individuals!"

The warlock pulls a scroll from his belt pouch, and turns to the others, "Come on, we need to find if the dragon is waiting for us further in the caves."

---

Simon is not interested in hydra parts while a dragon might be about!

Scroll of Mirror Image in hand.

Grog did as he was told.

Tara didn't take too long, but hydra's blood might well have useful healing properties.  Or be a powerful venom, which she would not hesitate to use on a dragon...

Sprinkle figured that the hydra's corpse would still be there after and that the security of her sister was more important than a few vials of blood, so she followed the warriors to lend them support, giving a look over to the place

---

Today: Sprinkle rolled 17 using 1d20+6.  perception.

"He isss.... not here."

Sskith whispered into the dark, reaching for the pouch he kept about his neck and drawing forth a dried and withered carrot. This he pressed into his forehead, giving a sibilant hiss, as he summoned the Nighteyes to him.

"But he isssss coming, we do not have much time.

Tempest stood stunned for a moment, sword in hand, and turned, seeing Grog. She felt her training kick in, and turning fully around, ran for the enemy, screaming. “TO ARMS!” She ran in and at the first enemy, swung her sword twice, the first missing, but the second biting flesh.

---

<OOC:  Tempest rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Wisdom save.

Action - run in and attack the closest enemy

Tempest rolled 11 using 1d20+6.  Attack - frostbyte.

Tempest rolled 21 using 1d20+6.  Attack - frostbyte.

Tempest rolled 7 using 1d8+2.  Damage - frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 5 using 1d6.  Frost damage.>

Seeing Tempest had plainly not been lulled by the same enchantment as Grog, Lenelle went with the sure thing as the chaos of melee erupted betwixt the swordswoman and these new foes.

Reckoning their leader the most dangerous, she put the quartet of mystic bolts into him as Tempest called out for the remainder of the party.  Winking back into view, as the attack ended the spell of invisibility.

Lenelle Toreth rolled 13 using 4d4+4.  magic missiles.  -at their leader.

Simon & Sprinkle turned the corner and entered a larger chamber just in time to see a new brawl unfold. They heard Tempest call her comrades to arms, then leap at what might have been a small band of Lizardmen. Anyone with Darkvision knew that they faced something more. Tempest slashed at two of the figures flanking a larger scaled being. Her second swipe struck and bit into a Lizardman!

Off to their right, Lenelle suddenly winked into view as she cast Magic Missile! Her magic bolts struck what all present assumed was the leader. To Lenelle’s shock, though, her attack only inflicted minor damage!

Nearby, Grog blinked as if shaking off a stupor. He might have been surprised to see Tempest fighting a band if scaled enemies who hadn’t been there seconds before (as far as he remembered).

OOC:

Everyone present roll Initiative!


 

Not sure if I'm present.

20:28, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 9 using 1d20+2.  Initiative

OOC:

Not until the next round.

Unless you’re already present, anyone  wanting to join must specify that they’re answering Tempest’s call for help.

Telric managed to get all manner of body parts off the massive beast. All stored away in various vials and wrapped packages, and then stored in his bag of holding. It was he heard Tempest's call, and quickly headed over. Higgins sitting in his shoulder and ready to act.

Sprinkle would never leave her sister hanging after such a call, and ran to her side, picking a target and started slashing with her watery claws, the shark biting down on the same enemy

OOC

Move to an enemy

Attack with the claws, 21 to hit for 6 acid damage

Bonus action, move the spriritual shark to the same enemy

Free action Shark attacks, 22 to hit for 5 force damage

Today: Sprinkle rolled 21,6,22,5 using 1d20+7,2d10,1d20+7,1d8+3 with rolls of 14,4,2,15,2.  primal savagery and spiritial weapon attack & damage. – 21,6,22,5

22:39, Today: Sprinkle rolled 22 using 1d20+2 with rolls of 20.  Initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:40, Sat 11 June 2022.

Simon rounded the corner next to Sprinkle, "Bloody hell!" he cursed seeing yet another battle breaking out. "The damned dragon is wearing us out with minions!"

While Sprinkle ran to her sister's side, Simon held his position and sent two blasts of magical energy at the same foe targeted by Lenelle.

---

Simon rolled 23 for Initiative.
Simon rolled 8 for Arcana and 17 for History.

Cast Eldritch Blast at "leader":
Simon rolled 22 for 10 force and 3 thunder damage; and 10 for 12 force damage.

Simon has 120 ft darkvision, not impeded by magical Darkness.

Jennet poked his head up from his grisly work. "They're scouting ahead?" He threw... something squamous and veiny around his neck like a sash, and bolted in the direction of the melee. As he ran, his orange blades sprouted from his fists.

11:13, Today: Jennet rolled 15 using 1d20+2 ((13)).

Simon was right; truly, this was probably part of the great Black's strategy...to exhaust the energy and resources of those who dared its lair.

It was past time to be more judicious in selecting spells.   She took aim with the basic firebolt this time; a simple spell she could cast all day if she wished to.

She did not target the leader this time, but rather one of its minions.

Perhaps it was determination, or sheer annoyance, but Lenelle's aim was unusually true in this instance:

Lenelle Toreth rolled 20 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.
Lenelle Toreth rolled 27 using 1d20+7.  firebolt. -critical hit; one of the minions
Lenelle Toreth rolled 20 using 4d10.  firebolt critical damage.

Initiative:

Simon
Sprinkle
Lenelle
“Leader” & Minions
Tempest
“Lieutenant”
Grog

I need Initiative rolls for Tempest & Grog. I’ll edit you into the order before my Enemy Actions.

15:09, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  Minions.
15:09, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 4 using 1d20+2.  Lieutenant Initiative .
15:08, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  Leader Initiative .




This message was last edited by the GM at 00:06, Tue 14 June 2022.

14:27, Today: Tara Inkfingers rolled 15 using 1d20+2 ((13)).

<OOC: Tempest rolled 16 using 1d20+1.  iniative.>

As Simon looked more closely at the lizardfolk, his face blanched, and his jaw dropped.

"It can't be," he whispered. Then he shouted, "Zann protect us, those are Yuan-ti!"

Grog made grunting sound of Hmm?

21:21, Today: Grog rolled 4 using 1d20+2.  Initiative. – 4

Everyone in earshot heard fear in Simon’s voice as he shouted his warning. Telric knew they were in trouble as he raced wit the stragglers toward the next cavern chamber. Still, Simon kept his nerve and lashed out with his favorite cantrip. The sound of Thunder boomed as his Eldritch Bolts struck the Yuan-Ti leader! The Yuan-Ti’s serpentine tail twitched as the glowing bolts hit. They didn’t hurt him as much as they would any other foe, though. That concerned Simon as he saw the Leader take only half damage.

Sprinkle rushed to aid her beloved sister. Her claws slashed at a snake-headed Yuan-Ti with a humanoid body. The spectral shark chomped into his side, and the Yuan-Ti hissed in pain! Her attacks gave the other Yuan-Ti caution.

Keeping her word, Lenelle had her companions’ backs. The Sorceress hurled a Firebolt with the grace of her Elvish ancestors. The flaming missile hit the same minion that Sprinkle attacked. It scalded him, but again, not as badly as it should hurt.

“We wasssste our time,” The snake-tailed leader said in a guttural rasp. While he rummaged in his belt pouch, the minion hit by the women stared at Lenelle with vertically slotted eyes. “Sssit down,” he said in a voice dripping with magical power, as Lenelle felt a compulsion form in her mind to obey.

OOC:

Lenelle, make a WIS Save vs. Suggestion, DC 13, with your racial Advantage on that roll.
 

The other Yuan-Ti minion strung his longbow and fired two arrows at Simon. They both whizzed past him by scant inches! A third Yuan-Ti that they hadn’t noticed stepped from behind their leader and joined the dog pile. He swung a heavy scimitar at Sprinkle!

The two Lizardmen followed the Yuan-Ti lead and also hurled their javelins at Simon. They lacked the accuracy of their superiors, though, and the javelins thunked into the dirt several yards from Simon. When their javelins were gone, they turned on Sprinkle next. They swung heavy shields adorned with spikes. One of them hit, ripping into Sprinkle’s side!

With a disgusted hiss, the Leader found what he sought in his pouch. He withdrew a single white feather. He hissed a word in an unfamiliar language, and suddenly Grog, Sprinkle, & Tempest felt an overwhelming fear clutch at their chests!

OOC:

Grog, Sprinkle, & Tempest: Give me a WIS Save vs. Fear, DC 15. Whoever fails drops what they’re doing and flees the cave.

10 damage from Scimitar & 7 damage from spiked shield to Sprinkle!

20:50, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 7 using 1d6+2.  Spiked shield damage.
20:45, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  Spiked shield.
20:45, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 18 using 1d20+4.  Spiked shield.
20:44, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  Javelin attack #2.
20:44, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 5 using 1d20+4.  Lizardmen Javelin attack .
20:43, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 5 using 1d6+3.  Scimitar damage.
20:42, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 5 using 1d6+3.  Scimitar damage.
20:41, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  Yuan-Ti Scimitar #2.
20:41, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Yuan-Ti Scimitar #1.
20:40, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 13 using 1d20+4.  Yuan-Ti Longbow Attack #2.
20:39, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 12 using 1d20+4.  Yuan-Ti Longbow attack #1.



The Yuan-Ti lieutenant held out his scaled hands. He rasped in the same inhuman tongue as his leader. Every hero in the cave suddenly felt an irresistible exhaustion wash over them! If they succumbed, they knew they would all fall asleep within easy reach of these deadly new enemies!

OOC:

Grog, Lenelle, Simon, Sprinkle, & Tempest: One last WIS Save or fall asleep, DC 13. Not a standard Sleep spell here, it’s a special Yuan-Ti attack.

"This is not a dragon. Wake me...when...dragon..."

21:07, Today: Grog rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Wis save. – 6

Sprinkle felt the effect of the emotion magic wash over her, and she smiled grimly "Please, I've faced mackerels more frightening than you pretend snakes". Another Yuan-ti casted a spell and she saw Grog fall to it, but she stood her ground, same as Tempest.

---

Today: Sprinkle rolled 22,17 using 1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 16,11.  Wis save X2.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:24, Tue 14 June 2022.

"They resist magic!" Simon called out as he avoided the arrows and javelins that flew toward him. He felt a spell break over him but he managed to throw off its effects.

---

Simon rolled 19 for WIS save vs Sleep.

Tempest saw the hits on her sister, and her world narrowed - all their was was the enemy, herself and her sister. Her eyes glowed like blue flames as she stepped up, shoving him with her shield to knock him down. She stood over him and started swinging her sword, swinging her sword in great arcs.

Even as the magic was issued towards her, she paid it no heed, like a wave battering the shore. "You hurt my sister in front of me....YOU DIE!!"

---

<OOC: Tempest rolled 17 using 1d20+1.  Wis save.
Tempest rolled 15 using 1d20+1.  Wis save.

Bonus Action - shove enemy prone.

Tempest rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Athletics roll.

Dc 21 Athletics or Acrobatics check or knocked prone

Action : Attack twice using Frostbyte

Tempest rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Attack 1 - Frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 6 using 1d20+5.  Attack - Frostbyte (advantage). (if prone)

Tempest rolled 3 using 1d8+2.  Damage - Frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 5 using 1d6.  Frost damage.

Tempest rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  Attack 2 - Longsword
Tempest rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  Attack - Frostbyte (advantage). (If prone)

Will use superioroty dice to use meanacing strike

Tempest rolled 3 using 1d8+2.  Damage - Frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 6 using 1d6.  Frost damage.
Tempest rolled 8 using 1d8.  Superiority dice.

Must roll a wis save dc 13 or be frightened of Tempest.

Reaction - use Interception on anyone attacking Sprinkle

Tempest rolled 9 using 1d10+3.  Interception.

Reduces damage by 9>
This message was last edited by the player at 04:50, Tue 14 June 2022.

The cleric knew the effects of the slumbering spell and they needed the brawn the minotaur brought to the party. Even if she got the impression that she was always raising him, she trusted Tempest to keep her safe and move to the fallen warrior, turning a dagger around in her hand and hitting him with the pommel, as her spectral shark tore up the same Yuan-ti it had bitten before, trashing around like trying to rip a part of him off to feed on it.

Wake up you overgrown sea cow!

OOC :

Dagger strike with the pommel on Grog, non lethal damage, 22 to hit (with advantage since he's prone) for 6 bludgeoning damage (sorry, max damage!)

Spiritual shark attacks the same Yuan-ti as before for 27 to hit (Crit!) and 11 damage

Today: Sprinkle rolled 22,22,6 using 1d20+5,1d20+5,1d4+2.  dagger strike, advantage

Today: Sprinkle rolled 4 using 1d8 with rolls of 4.  extra damage dice for crit.

21:40, Today: Sprinkle rolled 27,7 using 1d20+7,1d8+3 with rolls of 20,4. spiritual weapon attack & damage

Lenelle lacked the training, the hardened sort of will, common to many other sorts of occultists.  And found herself ill-prepared to resist the effects of a spell she herself could cast.

And so, as nonsensical as it was, she didn't resist the verbally delivered compulsion, and found herself nodding in concord:

"This is a waste of time! Surely we can sort this out in a better manner?" she proffered, locating a place to sit.

The sleep spell was a different matter; the enchantment descending over her to no result.

Lenelle Toreth rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Wis save.
Lenelle Toreth rolled 3 using 1d20+1.  Wis save w/advantage.
Lenelle Toreth rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Wis save.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:56, Wed 15 June 2022.

OOC:

Let me lead with saying, you fuckers LUCKED OUT! LOL

Remember to thank your Dice Roller Gods!




The Yuan-Ti with the long serpent tail hissed orders. ”Ssslay the fighters, and be quick about it!” The abominable creature coiled his tail and pounced, attempting to ensnare Sprinkle in his coils! He missed, and in his frustration, also missed her with his scimitar!

Nearby, the first Minion addressed Tempest in a sibilant voice dripping with Magic.”Inssspect each and every item in your bagsss!” She felt a compulsion to empty all her bags and check every item contained within. Would her willpower save her from such a catastrophic deed?

The other Yuan-Ti flailed at Tempest, and missed!

However, the Lizardmen were somewhat luckier, as they slammed the prone Grog & Lenelle with a single swipe of their clubs!



OOC2:

Tempest, you’ll need another WIS Save vs. Suggestion, DC 13. If you fail, this may negate your attacks.

Grog & Lenelle take 5 Bludgeoning damage apiece!

16:57, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 6 using 1d20+4.  Lizardman #2 Club #2 (Adv).
16:56, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 6 using 1d20+4.  Lizardman #2 Club #2 (Adv).
16:56, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 6 using 1d20+4.  Lizardman #2 Club #1 (Adv).
16:55, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 18 using 1d20+4.  Lizardman #2 Club #1 (Adv).
16:54, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 17 using 1d20+4.  Lizardman #1 Club #2.
16:54, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 13 using 1d20+4.  Lizardman #1 Club #1.
16:52, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Yuan-Ti Minion #2 Scimitar .
16:51, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  Yuan-Ti Minion #2 Scimitar .
16:49, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  Yuan-Ti Minion Save.
16:46, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 11 using 1d20+7.  Yuan-Ti Leader: Scimitar (Adv.).
16:46, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 14 using 1d20+7.  Yuan-Ti Leader: Scimitar (Adv.).
16:45, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 14 using 1d20+7.  Yuan-Ti Leader: Scimitar .
16:44, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 12 using 1d20+7.  Yuan-Ti Leader: Constrict (Adv.).
16:42, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 14 using 1d20+7.  Yuan-Ti Leader: Constrict.

Initiative:

Simon (23)
Sprinkle (22)
Lenelle (20)
“Leader” & Minions (16)
Tempest (16)
Telric (15, next round)
Tara (11, next round)
“Lieutenant” (4)
Grog (4)


This message was last edited by the GM at 03:44, Thu 16 June 2022.

Seeing two downed party members, Telric rushed in. Ready to have Higgins use his protective aura.

ooc-18:16, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 15 using 1d20+2.  Initiative . Heading for slept party memebrs.

I don't know that I'd call failing against multiple save-or-suck spells in a row "lucky", but at least I'm alive.

Grog woke to receiving a blow to the head, reflexes taking over at the shock of both the blow and the realization that he had fallen asleep. He shook his head as he rose to his feet, grasping the haft of his glaive as he did so, and rushed toward the the lizard-people-things that he had someone forgotten the existence of.

Move: stand from prone, move toward enemies
Action A: if I don't have enough movement to reach them, Dash
Action B: if I do reach them, full attack with the Glaive
- Attack 1: Miss AC 9 for 18 magical slashing damage
- Attack 2: Hit AC 19 for 11 magical slashing damage

17:56, Today: Grog rolled 9,18,19,11 using d20+7,2d10+4,d20+7,2d10+4.  Glaive Attack. – 9,18,19,11

Simon feels helpless as he watches the yuan-ti send wave after wave of debilitating magicks at his companions, knowing at some point they will fail to resist.

Nonetheless he looks to do what he can to help, which is cast magic.

He glared at the minion that forced its will upon Lenelle, and utters some words of power, "Maledictum! Mysticus!" The familiar blue bolt flew at the abomination.

---

Bonus Action: Cast Hex on the minion.
Action: Cast Eldritch Blast on the minion.

Simon rolled: 22 for 12 force + 3 thunder + 1 necrotic damage, and 15 for 9 force and 3 necrotic damage.

What is the rough distance from Simon to the melee scrum, and to the Lieutenant, who I believe is standing further back? Is there room to skirt the melee without getting hit?

Init is 11

Tara charged in the direction of the fighting and took in what faced them-- and it was dangerous.  She prepared a spell...

With that Init, the battlefield might change before my turn, so I'm waiting to post more.

Tempest hears the magical order, but her mind is so angry and set on those who hurt her sister, the magical suggestion rolled off her like water off a rock. Facing the magic user, she swung her sword down, slicing a neat line in his chest with an icy trail, quickly repeating, missing.

"I'll tear your tongue out!" she hissed

---

<OOC: Tempest rolled 19 using 1d20+1.  wis save

Action - Attack Twice with Frostbyte

Tempest rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  attack 1 - frostbyte
Tempest rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  attack 1 - frostbyte (Advantage).

Tempest rolled 5 using 1d8+2.  damage - Frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 5 using 1d6.  frost damage - frostbyte.

Use Menacing strike

Tempest rolled 1 using 1d8.  maneuver dice.

Tempest rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  Attack 2 - Frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Attack 2 - Frostbyte (Advantage).

Bonus Action - None

Reaction - Interception (Attack Against Sprinkle)

Tempest rolled 10 using 1d10+3.

Any attack against sprinkle absorbs 10hp>

---

OOC:

Initiative:

Simon
Sprinkle
Lenelle
“Leader” & Minions
Tempest
Jennet
Telric
Tara
Seth
“Lieutenant”
Grog






Of all the party, Simon best understood the threat that they currently faced! The fight currently seemed to go well for the group, but any final showdown with Baleful Blackfang wouldn’t matter if their luck against the Yuan-Ti ran out. They fought with arrow, blade, and spell, so Simon responded with his own magic! The young Warlock had grown in his proficiency with his favored Cantrip, hurling Eldritch Bolts with a precision rapidly growing seasoned! The first magical bolt hit the Abomination hard, with the second missing by a thread of a wish! When the bolt hit, the Abomination spared a cold,reptilian glance at Simon.

Acting in the best interest of the group, Sprinkle dashed toward the sleeping Grog. She apologetically whacked him on the head with the pommel of her dagger. His weary groan told her it worked! Sprinkle bought more time by directing her spectral shark at her targeted Yuan-Ti. The Spiritual Weapon bit into her enemy, but didn’t inflict as much damage as it would against a normal foe.

Although she’d tried to help, Lenelle inexplicably sat down where she stood. She wasn’t trained to resist the call of certain spells. Luckily, her Elven blood protected her from the exotic sleep spell!

The Yuan-Ti (Abomination) with the long serpent tail hissed orders. ”Ssslay the fighters, and be quick about it!” The abominable creature coiled his tail and pounced, attempting to ensnare Sprinkle in his coils! He missed, and in his frustration, also missed her with his scimitar!

Nearby, the first Minion addressed Tempest in a sibilant voice dripping with Magic.”Inssspect each and every item in your bagsss!” She felt a compulsion to empty all her bags and check every item contained within. Would her willpower save her from such a catastrophic deed?

The other Yuan-Ti flailed at Tempest, and missed!

However, the Lizardmen were somewhat luckier, as they slammed the prone Grog & Lenelle with a single swipe of their clubs!

The vicious attacks against Sprinkle stirred an irresistible wrath in Tempest! Seeing her twin hurt drove her into a rage too strong for mind-altering enchantments. The lithe Fighter sprang between Sprinkle and their scaled enemies. She knocked him off-balance, slashing her sword across his scales chest, opening it and leaving her hated foe covered in ice crystals. Between the Genasi twins, that particular Yuan-Ti looked bloodied from his injuries.

There was one Yuan-Ti (Lieutenant) who remained untouched, though. From the farthest pojnt (60 ft. away), he watched the fight. He looked between Simon, Sprinkle, & Tempest with indecision. When Tempest knocked his fellow Yuan-Ti on his back, the Lieutenant chose the opponent who presented the most visceral threat. The spellcaster raised an arm that ended in a serpent’s head and spoke in that guttural tongue. Simon groaned when he recognized the spell. The Yuan-Ti summoned two Eldritch Bolts that slammed Tempest on her own back with devastating force! She tried to spring back to her feet, but her eyelids fluttered, then closed!

”SSSTAND DOWN, OR WE SSSLAY HER!”

Newly awakened from his enchanted elumber, Grog wasn’t yet aware of Tempest’s peril! The Minotaur jumped upright in a burst of renewed vigor, swinging his weapon hard on the Lizardman! His reptilian foe gasped in pain from the Glaive’s sharpness!

Jennet, Seth, Tara, & Telric turned the corner, finally arriving to witness another fierce battle! They collectively gasped when they saw Tempest lying unconscious and dying! They heard the Yuan-Ti shout a demand to stand down, or their companion would die.

What would they do?

OOC:


Tempest took 32 Force damage from two Eldritch Blasts, the first a Critical Hit. Tempest needs to start Death Checks on the next round. Higgins will only blunt extra attacks, not restore her HP to 1+.

13:33, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 9 using 1d10+3.  Eldritch Blast #2 Damage.
13:33, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 10 using 1d10+3.  Eldritch Blast #1 Critical Hit Damage.
13:32, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 13 using 1d10+3.  Eldritch Blast #1 Damage .
13:30, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 18 using 1d20+5.  Yuan-Ti Lt. Eldritch Blast #2.
13:29, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Yuan-Ti Lt. Eldritch Blast #1.





This message was last edited by the GM at 21:49, Thu 16 June 2022.

In reply to The Dungeonmaster (msg # 179):

Telric moves over to Tempest, and touches her lightly with his staff. The burned holes in her body quickly seal up, but not restoring her all the way back to full health. Higgins, still in Telric's pocket, activates his protective shield, providing some extra buffer on Tempest if she is struck again.

ooc-
Moves over to Tempest.

Action-uses cure spell on her for 16. Bonus action-using Higgins ability for 3 temp hp in a 10'radius for allies with 2 or less temp hp.

I have a reaction left to attack anyone who gets with reach of my staff thanks to polearm master. Or I could use the reaction for defense spells as needed.

14:32, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 3 using 1d8+2.  Higgins Temp HP.
14:32, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 16 using 3d8+2.  Healing Tempest.

This message was last edited by the player at 18:39, Thu 16 June 2022.

Sskith came around the corner and witnessed the chaos unfolding.

The Hydra had been one thing, but this raid was already lost. Even if they emerged victorious against these Yuan-Ti, they would be too weak to face the Dragon. Their only option was to flee, but they could not do so until this foe was defeated. His eyes, infused as they were with Nightsight, scanned over the other Lizardfolk as he picked his target. He looked to see if he recognized them, but it did not matter if he did, his choice was the same. He drew an arrow, and with a whispered hiss to his Echo sent it straking out through the darkness to strike the Yuan-Ti leader squarely in the shoulder. Thunder and lightning crackled as the shaft struck home, another fast behind it.

At his side, his Echo let out a tiny roar, and charged biting and snapping into the fray.

First shot on Yuan-Ti Leader, CRIT on a 27 for 16 piercing
-Drake uses reaction for Infused Strike for 5 Thunder, or 10 if that crits too
2nd Shot hits on a 15 for 4 damage.

Bonus: Drake charges and bites on a 14 for 4.

12:26, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 4 using 1d8+2 ((2)).
12:25, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 5 using 1d6.  If it crits
12:25, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 21 using 2d8+2+1d6 ((7,7,5)).
12:20, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 15 using 1d20+7.  Attack 2.
12:20, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 27 using 1d20+7.  Attack 1.
12:28, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 4 using 1d6+3.  Damage.
12:28, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 14 using 1d20+6.  Drake bite
This message was last edited by the player at 19:32, Thu 16 June 2022.

When Telric began his healing spell, the Yuan-Ti Lieutenant spoke up. ”No. You will not sssave her.” The Yuan-Ti waved his hand as if he were wiping a window. Instantly, Telric knew he’d lost his healing spell! Only the aid from Higgins currently protected Tempest, and the Artifcer had just placed himself in close contact with the Yuan-Ti….


OOC:

He cast Counterspell as Reaction as a 6th Level caster. The Cure Wounds was negated.

PM

Tempest, in her anger, felt the two magical bolts hit her, and in the red haze closed to darkness, dropped to the ground.

Simon quickly surveys the battle, and bites his lip, as the situation does not look good.

[Telepathy to Nimbus] "Come as fast as you can, I need your help to do something insane."

Simon opens the scroll that he is holding, and reads it. A moment later it three duplicates of the warlock appear. He then skits around the nearby melee and moves toward the Yuan-ti standing on his own, drawing a dagger as he moves.

---

Cast Mirror Image from scroll:

Roll a d20 to determine if an attack targets an image; 3 images: 6+, 2: 8+, 1: 11+. Duplicates' is AC 13. If attack hits, the duplicate is destroyed. It ignores all other damage and effects.

Move until 30' from the lone Yuan-ti.

Nimbus will need his own initiative roll for taking the Help action next round.

Simon rolled 9 using 1d20+2 for Initiative for Nimbus.

[Edit: added initiative roll for Nimbus.]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:59, Thu 23 June 2022.

Tempest!

Seeing the fighter drop, the cleric did not hesitate and rushed to her aid, healing water coming out of both her hands, the shark floating idly in the air, the healer unable to spare the concentration to direct it.

---

Move to Tempest

Action Cure wound for 4 HP

Bonus Action Healing word at level 2 for 9 HP

In that order, so if another counterspell hits, it's on the cure wound.

Today: Sprinkle rolled 4,9 using 1d8+3,2d4+3 with rolls of 1,3,3.  cure wounds, healing word (level 2).

Lenelle Toreth rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Wis save.

The severity of the situation, the peril to her comrades, bolstered Lenelle's will. Suddenly, her choice to sit and talk this out became apparent as the magic-induced craziness it was.

And she knew immediately what she must do; both because she wanted to, as well as because it made quite sound tactical sense...

Moving to where Tempest and Sprinkle were, she added her own healing magic to the effort.

Lenelle Toreth rolled 7 using 2d8+4.  cure light wounds, Tempest.  Not the best of rolls, but...

"So many spells! Oh which to counter?" she taunted the serpent-mage, hoping he'd throw in the towel as to any further counters.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:50, Wed 22 June 2022.

OOC:

NOT AN UPDATE! This is the Yuan-Ti group’s attack. The lone Yuan-Ti gets a a separate post, then I’ll resolve all attacks in the update.

Initiative:

Simon
Sprinkle
Lenelle
“Leader” & Minions
Tempest
Jennet
Telric
Tara
Seth
“Lieutenant”
Grog






”Ssslay these foolsss! I will take the fallen one hossstage!” The Yuan-Ti Abomination coiled his massive tail around the unconscious Tempest with stunning speed! He led the charge by swinging his massive scimitar at Sprinkle. His terrible blade bit deeply into the Genasi!

His minions followed his example and swung his own scimitar at Grog. The first swipe missed, but his blade struck on the second attack. Luckily, Grog’s thick skin blunted most of the attack. The second Yuan-Ti minion also attacked with a scimitar. Like his brother-in-arms, one attack hit with a minor gash.

The Lizardmen focused on Lenelle, recognizing the threat of a spellcaster who also wielded healing magic. His jaws snapped at Lenelle, his sharp teeth sinking into her arm! She felt some relief when he let go, only for her to feel her shoulder bludgeoned by his club! The other Lizardman felt emboldened by his brother’s success and also attacked the Sorceress. His own jaws missed as Lenelle flinched, but she couldn’t avoid the club, as it struck her back!

”Sssurrender or they die!”

However, that outcome could have been in doubt as a double dose of Divine Magic healed Tempest! The intrepid warrior awoke to find herself ensnared in the Yuan-Ti’s coils!


OOC:

Tempest, you wake up this round and don’t take the Constricting damage, thanks to Telric’s Temp HP!

14:22, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 6 using 1d6+3.  Bludgeoning damage .
14:21, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 16 using 1d20+4.  Lizardfolk #2 Club.
14:21, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 8 using 1d20+4.  Lizardfolk #2 Bite .
14:21, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 3 using 1d6+2.  Club damage .
14:20, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 8 using 1d6+2.  Bite damage .
14:19, Today: The Dungeonmaster rolled 18 using 1d20+4.  Lizardfolk #1 Club.
14:19, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 17 using 1d20+4.  Lizardfolk #1 Bite.
14:18, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 7 using 1d6+3.  Slashing damage.
14:18, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 6 using 1d20+5.  Minion #2 Scimitar #2.
14:17, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Minion #2 Scimitar #1.
14:16, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 6 using 1d6+3.  Slashing damage.
14:16, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Minion #1 Scimitar #2.
14:15, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  Minion #1 Scimitar #1.
14:13, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 13 using 2d6+4.  Scimitar damage .
14:13, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 10 using 2d6+4.  Scimitar damage.
14:12, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  Scimitar #2.
14:12, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 24 using 1d20+7.  Scimitar #1.
14:10, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 10 using 2d6+4.  Bludgeoning damage.
14:10, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 22 using 1d20+7.  Leader, Constrict, Advantage.
14:09, Today: Secret Roll: The Dungeonmaster rolled 16 using 1d20+7.  Leader, Constrict, Adv.

[6 blank lines suppressed]

In reply to The Dungeonmaster (msg # 188):

As the Abomination comes in to grapple an KO'd foe, he got something of a surprise. Telric's staff spun, smashing into the creature and knocking it away before its coils could clamp down on Tempest.

ooc:
With polearm master, I get a reaction attack when the Abomination tries to grab Tempest. I hit an ac 17, and if successful the creature will take 6 damage, and be pushed back 5 feet by my crusher feat. Forced movement will break the grapple, allowing Tempest to be free, and possibly taking no damage.

This message was last edited by the player at 19:56, Thu 23 June 2022.

Unfortunately, the polearm glanced off the Abomination’s scales!

OOC:

Telric, give me Perception or Arcana, whichever is better.

In reply to The Dungeonmaster (msg # 190):

ooc-18:24, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 16 using 1d20+5.  Arcana.

Telric spotted a detail of the enemy only an Artificer would have recognized.

Tempest, wrapped in the enemy's clutches, opened her eyes and took the scene in quickly. She realized several things at once.....she was unconscious, but now wasn't. She was close to an enemy.

...and she still held her sword.

With a roar that would be more suited to the minotaur, she flexed her muscles, her training coming in. She broke free, realizing she had dropped her shield, she took advantage of the situation, and frostbyte in two hands, swiped at the beast with two fierce cuts

---

<OOC: Tempest rolled 16 using 1d20+5.  grapple check.

Action - Attack Twice with Frostbyte (Two handed)

Tempest rolled 18 using 1d20+5.  Attack - Frostbyte (Attack 1).

Tempest rolled 12 using 1d10+2.  damage - Frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 1 using 1d6.  frost damage - frostbyte.

Tempest rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Attack - Frostbyte (Attack 2).

Tempest rolled 9 using 1d10+2.  damage - Frostbyte.
Tempest rolled 6 using 1d6.  frost damage - frostbyte.

Total Damage - 21 slashing damage, 7 cold damage

Bonus Action - None>

Telric moves besides Tempest, once again trying to heal her with his staff, and then lets Higgins do his work.

"If you do not want battle, you may leave. We don't need to shed more blood." He said to the abomination.


OOC:
15:46, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 4 using 1d8+2.  Higgins Temp HP.

15:46, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 8 using 3d8+2.  Cure wounds.

15:52, Today: Telric Televentor rolled 14 using 2d20-1, dropping the lowest dice only.  Persuasion with advantage.


This message was last edited by the player at 19:52, Mon 27 June 2022.

Nimbus swooped into the cavern unseen. She awaited Simon’s orders.

Gwyl remained mostly forgotten, but Tara heard his distinctive hoot from nearby.

"More are coming!" Tara called.  "Pull back!"

She wanted to let the snake-folk retreat if that was their will, but she raised her wand-- at the first sign of attackers coming through, she intended to create a Web in that passageway to halt their progress.

Sprinkle looked at Telric, astonishment on her face. "They started the battle, casting the first spells! And they nearly killed Tempest! You would just let them leave?" Tara's warning sobered her blood lust a little, but she was not happy about it, and it showed... she was ready to fight on, watery claws on her wrist.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:46, Tue 28 June 2022.

Telric watched Tempest rage against the Yuan-Ti. He was a more temperate mind than the Twins. As much as Simon, Telric understood the danger of pressing this battle. He knew his companions wanted to fight. The Yuan-Ti were unreadable. Although the Leader tensed powerful arms to retaliate, Telric couldn’t read his  serpentine face to tell if his words broke through.

For several heartbeats, an uncomfortable silence hung over everyone gathered in the cave.

Then, the lone Yuan-Ti spoke up from the rear. ”Sssir. We wassste time with this battle. Let them gather their wounded and leave. It changesss nothing.

All will ssstill proceed as planned.”

The Yuan-Ti Lieutenant stared at the group with cold eyes. Behind him, footsteps shuffled in a narrow passage that Tara had identified. The fight could go either Ray, but if more Yuan-Ti emerged, the outcome might not be so certain.

In reply to The Dungeonmaster (msg # 198):

Telric raises an eyebrow at Sprinkle's justified anger, but keeps his eyes on the serpentine leader. "You might have victory against us, but at what cost?" Telric pointed out to it.

"Only to have your own forces weakened against your real enemy, rather than a group of travellers you just came upon."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:27, Tue 28 June 2022.

The Yuan-Ti all made a strange hissing sound. Quickly, Telric realized it was what Yuan-Ti laughter sounded like. The Abomination spoke next. Nothing in thisss pitiful ssswamp will keep usss from our true goal. Merrshaulk will awaken sssoon, after the Dragon laysss wassste to you sssoftssskinsss. Go. Take your companions while you are able.”

The Abomination swept a clawed finger to the other end of the cave. Go. Lick your woundsss. Baleful Blackfang awaitsss in the camp of the Lizardfolk.”

“Telric is right, this is not the battle we came to fight.”

Simon slowly sheathed his dagger and held his empty hands out. “We will accept your offer, and leave.”

[Telepathy to Nimbus] My wish is that they would all drop dead, but I think that may be beyond your powers, my friend. The situation has changed. Go back and watch for the dragon at the water.

Tara called Gwyl to her, and tried to help anyone who was too badly hurt to get back.  She didn't trust her tongue to be much help here.

Tempest stood between the group and the enemy, blood running down her arms and legs I dicating her wounds. Despite this, she had a ferice look on her face as she stood, two hands on her sword. "Why should we trust you will let us leave in peace. YOU attacked first."

She swayed, barely standing, by sheer force of will but looked to the Minotaur. "Fall back. The next time we see them they will know the coward's death at our hands. They call it mercy....but they back down." She sneered, clearly angry still ad she backed up to sprinkle. "You good sis?"

Sskith was again unharmed, and kept an arrow notched. The leader had tasted his bow, and would not seek to taste it again. As he withdrew, he called out once to the one he recognized.

"Wux faestir pothoc baeshra, Ssskrik?"

His words were crisp and clear to any who spoke the Draconic tongue.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:02, Thu 30 June 2022.

The Lizardman quickly answered Seth. “Loreat mrith wer scaleless gomu, Seth!” Although both sides remained poised for a fight, the Yuan-Ti kept their word. Simon knew enough to realize that they didn’t act from any true sense of Honor. Rather, it seemed like a confident anticipation of the kill. Three Yuan-Ti emerged from a narrow passage behind the lone spellcaster who’d most plagued the heroes. They watched the heroes to see what they would do next.

OOC:

Anyone with a Familiar or the Mage Hand cantrip give me a Perception check.

18:55, Today: Tara Inkfingers rolled 18 using 1d20+4 ((14)).

Simon rolled 9 using 1d20+3 for Perception.

I'm good sis, I just want you all right.

(In Aquan) I still don't like that we can't make those guys pay for what they did to you though, but I am getting tired.

The cleric stayed close to her sister, in the aura of Higgins, should that fight flare up again.

While the group gathered their wounded comrades, Gwyl flitted over beside Nimbus. The owl Familiar hooted to the sleek raven. The black-feathered Familiar cawed in reply, as if they were communicating with one another in a language of birds. They both flew swiftly to Echo, who answered their bird calls with what sounded like a happy squeak. The three Familiars flew toward a strip of cavern floor a dozen yards from the Lizardmen. The one who’d taunted Seth shooed them away from the ground where they oddly sank their talons.

All three flew back to the group as if rebuked. Tara & Simon immediately knew better, though. Each Familiar spoke telepathically with their Master or Mistress.

"I can create a space for us to rest safely for about an hour or so. It would allow us to heal enough to get to a real resting place." Telric whispered to the others, in case unfriendly ears where listening.

Telric’s discretion was aided when the Yuan-Ti second-in-command read off a scroll held by a foot solider. He hissed words of magic, then a rumbling shook the cave. Suddenly, slabs of stone burst from the ground, jutting toward the ceiling. Within seconds, a walk of stone separated the two groups. Telric & Grog sized it up, knowing they could break through with moderate effort. The wall merely bought time for the Yuan-Ti to retreat.

"...we've gained more than you may think," Tara whispered to whoever was nearest.

No sooner had Tara spoken than Gwyl dropped a handful of dull black scales at her feet! Nimbus perched beside the owl, releasing even more scales from her talons and beak. Echo joined them, unclenching black scales.  The drake began a strange gagging noise. Then, Echo belched up even more scales!

Gwyl preened as he dropped one last item at Tara’s feet: a single, slender dragon’s talon!


OOC:

1 Young Black Dragon claw (Wyrmling)
25 Black Dragon scales (Wyrmling)

"We need to flee."

Sskith said with urgency, his reptilian eyes bulging at the bounty laid out before them.

"We cannot win this hunt, not blooded asssss we are."

He knelt down and began gathering up scales, leaving the claw for someone else to take.

"There issss no honor in a nameless death beneath the ssswamp. Live to hunt again.""

Seth is probably right, we are in no condition, at least I am, for the second round of this fight with the dragon. If we had not had that stupid hydra and those snake people in our way...

Seeing that the lizard folk was leaving the claw on the ground, the Genasi picked it up, with whatever scales were left. Where did they pick that up? Approaching Tara, she asked Are you all right? And what do you mean, we gain more?

Simon watched in amazement as Nimbus, Gwyl, and Echo deposited the scales and claw before the group. "Well done, Nimbus...all of you!"

"I think we need to retreat, immediately. This skirmish has been hard on us. A rest is welcome, Telric, but not here.

I am with Seth and Sprinkle. Let's leave, recuperate, and make a second foray."

When Sprinkle picked up the talon he’d laid at Tara’s feet, the owl fluttered around her. He clapped his wings rapidly near her face, hooting at the Cleric.

Tempest, still holding her sword ready, watched as they put the stone barricade up, and smirked. When her sister suggested they leave, she nodded. In truth, the warrior had taken a beating and she needed rest

"Is good day to kills a dragon. Is bad time to fights a dragon." Grog dismissed the the stone wall as a waste of time, "We needs one hour, or we needs many?"

Lenelle too had watched in amazement as the trio of familiars concerted their effort, like a smaller team within the larger whole.

In sum, she was not sorry for how things had played out in this encounter.   In fact, she was grateful there had been no worse outcome...

"It only makes sense we were met by minions.  This dragon's no fool.  It sounded too good to be true he'd sitting in here, easily accessible, and licking his wounds. We should've expected something like this."    Answering Grog:

"My vote is for more than a single hour.  But if the majority want just one...then so be it."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:28, Wed 06 July 2022.

"The Vutha is closssse, he will not give ussss an hour."

They needed to understand, but he did not know how to convince them.

A tabby cat sidled up alongside Seth’s leg. Then, she shape-shifted into Cela’s true form. “Handy gift from the Fey. Think of what they said, Seth. They issued a challenge,” Cela said.

“Black Dragons are scum. He would happily ambush us at our weakest again. Those snake-men, though, acted like they’re confident enough to face us at full strength.”

"Give me just a little bit of time and I can conjure us up a shelter that will last many hours," said Tara.  "We won't be able to be attacked through it.  We will be able to see them, but they will only see a wall.  You couldn't ask for better safety.  Well, at least, I don't see how we could be safer and still be out here."

Sskith closed his eyes, and extended his senses out into the world

In reply to Tara Inkfingers (msg # 223):

Telric nodded. "If Tara has the ability to allow us rest via ritual, I recommend we allow her to provide it. Weather its for 1 hour or 8."

Seth tapped into The Flow of Nature, a connection experienced only by the Elementals, Sylvan races, select mortals, and gods. He felt the dampness of the cave, the steady drip of water droplets, the roots threading the soil around them. Further his senses went, feeling the heavy moistness of the swamp air, a heaviness that killed weaker men. He felt the mosquitoes, the centipedes, the things that skittered in bush and tree. He felt the fish, snakes, and crocodiles in the river.

What he did not sense in the immediate area was the Dragon, Baleful Blackfang. Seth’s Primeval Awareness felt the treacherous wyrm at the border of his senses. Up to six hours journey away. Whole again, waiting with a rapacious hunger for them.

Lenelle was plenty convinced.

"What, he's hunting us now?  Great!  Well, that too only makes sense.  An attack proof shelter-?  I think we'd be stupid not to do that?"

"Staying here makes no sense. If the dragon returns, we are trapped, and fighting on its terms.

I say we return through the underwater tunnel, and try to find a hidden spot in the swamp where Tara's shelter will protect us. And, the dragon will not be able to find us easily." Simon adds quietly, "I hope."

Once Simon’s water-breathing spell went into effect, the band of harried heroes swam the underwater passage. They found a small clearing hidden among thick oak and willow trees. Tara could enact the desired ritual with no interference.

Tara settled in to cast Tiny Hut, and then review her battered spellbook.  Much to be ready for, come the morrow...

The people among them educated in alchemy and magical lore realized that the Familiars scored a special victory as well. Simon, Tara, and Telric knew that the scales and tooth could be used against the Dragon they came from. Tara & Telric realized that there enough scales to fashion a shield that would resist Baleful’s acid breath! All three recalled texts describing an ingenious use for a Black Dragon’s tooth—a special dagger that inflicted acid damage that overcame most resistance to acid attacks.

Sprinkle was fascinated by the half globe created by the hand of Tara and wondered how she could create one herself, this would have been invaluable in the depths she came from! Taking a spot near the wizard and her sister, she started her prayers to replenish her magical prowess. Talking would wait.

In reply to The Dungeonmaster (msg # 231):

Within the hut, Telric reveals all he knows about dragon parts the familiars discovered. "Granted my paste will still help most of us deal with the beasts breath, the shield should go to an expert in such things. The claws and teeth could be fashioned into weapons to penetrate the dragon's hide."

Sskith was skeptical that this small dome, barely large enough to hold eight of them, would be sufficient to protect them from the Vutha's  wrath. Yet it was a strange magic, one he had not seen before, and the sensation of passing through the opaque wall and into the space beyond was unique to him. Perhaps the Wyrmling had never encountered such magic before as well, and would not know it for what it was if he flew overhead.

He listened to the Scaleless One's words, closing his eyes in agreement as he explained the properties of the scales. He had not known such, but there was wisdom to it. He crouched down, and removing the scales he had gathered, expertly began fashioning them into a shield. His hands were swift and sure, fashioning the implement with speed.  When their rest was done, it would be ready.

Oooh, I have a racial feature (Cunning Artisan) that says I can make a shield with a short rest out of bones and scales!

Seth experienced a moment of perfect inspiration when he realized he could craft the shield in scant time! He meticulously gathered the scales and fallen tree limbs. Using vines, Seth bound the strips of wood together. Cobbling together he base of a shield, Seth took advantage of help from his companions. Between Tara & Telric, they found the right ingredients for an adhesive to attach the scales. A few Cantrips aided the process, and Seth crafted a small Dragon-scale shield!

"Who would carry thissss trophy?"

Sskith asked, holding the shield aloft when he was done.

"The right belongssss to usss all, but who will face the Vutha'sssss wrath?"

"Not I," Tara chuckled.  "I wouldn't have the least idea how to use it.  Such trophies are for warriors, I fear."

Simon looks around the shelter. "Grog and Telric fight with two-handed weapons, so it must be Tempest or Sprinkle."

---

I know that Telric mixes it up, with some sort of Artificer thing. If it is one-handed, I will edit accordingly!

“If no one else wants it, I’ll gladly bear the shield while I’m shoving my blade in that Dragon’s throat.” Tempest winced from her recent injuries, but her icy gaze held a promise of pain for Baleful.

“You’ll not face any foe until your wounds are healed! Now, stop flexing, lie back and let me help you.” Sprinkle let her healing waters rush over her beloved twin’s wounds. “We’re all agreed to a nice, long rest to recover our strength? Yes?”

Not forgetting she was yet in large amounts of pain, from being both bitten and smacked with a club, Lenelle used her Dryadic ring as well as her own healing magic to mend the damage done.

Lenelle Toreth rolled 6 using 2d4+2.  ring of the dryad.
Lenelle Toreth rolled 16 using 2d8+4.  Cure wounds.

Sighing in relief after, she looked in wonder upon the shield Seth had constructed.

Indeed, Tempest seemed best suited to bear it.   She saw no see reason to suggest anyone else.

"Shields is not for Grog." It was a worthy item to wield, but not Grog's preferred form of fighting.

Telric shakes his head no at the shield. "Its best used by those specialized in such things. However, if you have the shield then the anti-acid paste would best go to someone without such protections..."

OOC-Paste gives resistance to acid same as the shield, correct? Shield just lasts longer. I assume the two cannot combined to get immunity to acid?

“Acid doesn’t hurt me as much as you land walkers. Spare the goopy stuff for Tara or Lenelle, I’ll use the shield.”
This message was last edited by the player at 02:34, Wed 20 July 2022.

"I wouldn't say no to the paste," said Tara.  "That thing's too dangerous."

“Oh, yes, please take the paste! I would hate to see your skin scarred by that awful beast’s acid!” Sprinkle gently laid her hand on Tara’s, her eyes holding some worry for the Wizard’s safety.

"Are we ready then?"

Sskith asked, eyeing the barrier which separated them from the rest of the world with curiosity.

The group recovered their spells and strength within the bizarre walls of Tara’s magical construct. They planned, preparing for a final showdown with Baleful Blackfang. Several hours later, Tara’s spell ended. Our heroes were strong enough to travel again, and strong enough to fight.


OOC:

What do you do next?

Roll any HD as needed to recover HP.

Sskith concentrated, and sent his spirit out into the world to find his prey. The strangeness of the fact that his prey was one of the Vutha did not escape him.

As an action, you can expend one ranger spell slot (1 minute per level of spell slot) to sense whether any
aberrations, celestials, dragons, elementals, fey, fiends, or undead are present within 1 mile of you (or
within up to 6 miles if you are in your favored terrain). This feature doesn’t reveal the creatures’
location or number.

Simon climbed to his feet. "Nimbus, go see if there is anything around." The raven squawks and then flies out of the structure.

"How do you know when you are ready to face a dragon?

Personally, I am ready to cast a line into the River Al-Zalim and while away the day until I go home to join my family for a meal. But that will have to wait, I suppose."

Looking at Seth, he asks, "Do you know where the caustic bitch is?"

Tara had prepared the same set of spells; the reasoning was the same.  She just hoped that they could locate the dragon before it hit them from surprise... she draped herself in Mage Armor for safety, of course.

When Seth tapped into the natural magic of The Flow, he sensed the denizens of Deadwater’s swamp within a one to four mile radius. His mystically enhanced senses detected the presence of aberration, elemental, Fey, and the coldness of the grace that signaled the Undead. Seth sensed the faintest trace of Celestial hovering at the periphery of his awareness.

The Dragon lurked at the limit of the spell’s radius, no doubt awaiting them all. Hungry for the final confrontation.

"If we sssstarted walking assss the sun rosssse, accross ground that isssss clear and dry, we would find the Vutha at midday."

Sskith answered.

"I had thought he would come closssser, I wassss wrong. I do not know why he waitsssss. I can feel him, feel hisss intent, I cannot feel where."

He didn't like it.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:15, Sat 23 July 2022.

In reply to Seth Sskith (msg # 253):

"No doubt he wants to fight us out in the open, where his wings can carry him away once more when he gets too hurt. And he would be beyond our reach." Telric points out. "We need to choose the battleground. One with a roof to keep his mobility limited."

"He knows we come, and he knows to go far away. Seems is more to a situation."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:15, Tue 26 July 2022.

Sskith let out a string of curses in Draconic, mostly involving inventive places where eggs could be shoved. To those few who understood him, it was not pleasant to listen to.

"The snakessss were emptying the nesssst."

He let out at last, when he had calmed down.

"We will track them, but it meanssss the Vutha is waiting for us in hissss new lair. He will be ready. He will have hissss servantssss about him."

He snorted once, the sound derisive. Those who had listened to him speak before might have put meaning to the sound, for he had uttered it before when faced with an answer he did not like.

"We have losssst what advantage we had. We should search this place to sssssssee if anything can be of ussssse."

He kept his own dark thoughts about their chances of success to himself.

Lenelle listened to Seth's uninterpretable exclamations, and then his explanation, in silence and with a deepening frown.

The party had set out from Deadwater with such optimism, such zeal, to be embarking on this task.  But they weren't characters in a fable or a lay, and a real dragon was one of the very worst of foes; and not only for its capacity to maim and kill.   She sighed.

"Well, this is nothing less than we should've expected."

She was grateful for the respite provided by Tara's amazing spell;  she couldn't change her own, as some of the other magic-workers.  But her power had replenished itself, and she was now prepared as possible.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:30, Wed 27 July 2022.

“*Pfagh*! We sent that Dragon running with his tail between his legs when he ambushed us! If we pull our heads out of our asses, how will he beat us when we’re actually ready for him?”
This message was last edited by the player at 23:09, Tue 26 July 2022.

"...There would be risks attacking him in his nest, but if that stops him from just flying away, it might be worth it," said Tara, thoughtfully.

"Agreed. We finish this today. No easy escapes for the creature." Telric nodded.

Simon shoulders his pack, and looks around, "Shall we? There's a dragon waiting to say hello."

Once Nimbus has confirmed there is nothing untoward in the immediate vicinity, the warlock moves to exit the magical structure.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:59, Thu 28 July 2022.

Tara’s magical hut dissipated, leaving the party exposed once more to the swamp. Nimbus sensed no immediate danger, and perched on a tree branch just over Simon’s head. Gwyl hid in the upper limbs of a taller oak oak tree. The sky overhead looked cloudy, occasionally exposing a few stars in a night sky. Seth figured they had just under three hours left til sunrise. A Black Dragon awaited them in the lands of the Lizardfolk.

"Well, we'd best get a move on," said Tara.  "No telling what that beast may do if left alone."

In reply to Tara Inkfingers (msg # 263):

"Indeed. I have many...well wishes...that I failed to deliver the last time we met the beast." He spun his staff and smirked.

Sskith tried to find the Yuan-Ti's tracks, but they were already eight hours old, and his chances of finding them in the dark were slim. He rubbed some carrot under his eyes to grant him Nighteyes, but it was going to be difficult nevertheless.

Spending a 2nd level spell slot (1/2) to cast Darkvision

19:09, Today: Seth Sskith rolled 10 using 1d20+8.  Tracking in the Swamp.

Upon leaving the hut, she immediately wished she could go back.

And was again reminded that, compared to her comrades, she was just sort of that normal girl who happened to know some spells. 

In combating the Hags and their minions, the part of her that touched and entwined with the upper-planes had come to the fore.  Stirring and rising to resist that unhallowed threat.

But though Baleful was certainly evil, it wasn't the same; and she found it difficult to contact that part of herself.   Her spells would work, just the same; but her heart wasn't in this, in the same way, and it opened the door for doubt.   Okay, for fear, if she had to be honest...

But wasn't real bravery only possible in the face of fear?  She found solace in that notion, and resolved she would be brave.   She watched Seth bemusedly, as the reptilian smeared carrots under his eyes.

As for her, the eyesight bequeathed by the father she never met served the same purpose, though she lacked the knowledge and skill of a tracker.

As Seth smears vegetable scrapings under his eyes, Simon hides a smile. He has become so used to his gifted sight, that he forgets that not everyone can see in the darkness as if it were daylight.

As the lizardman starts hunting for tracks to follow, Simon stops dead. "Hang on a moment," he calls out. "I know we are not planning on going underwater, but we are in a swamp, so we should take no chances. Aqua Respiratio."

"And I've had another thought..." The warlock pulls off his pack and rummages around before pulling out the shrunken head he took from the hags' lair.

"What do you know of the Yuan-Ti that ally themselves with Baleful Blackfang?"

---

Cast Water Breathing on all of the characters (max of 10 people).

The withered lips of the shrunken Hag’s head answered in a thin voice scarcely more than a raspy whisper. ”The Yuan-Ti lived in the jungles of this continent. They worshiped a great and terrible Serpent God. They strive for their sleeping god’s awakening.”

While the others made their preparations, Tara looked around to see if anything else was sneaking up on them.

Tara didn’t see anyone except a dragonfly, and a flock of birds flying too quickly overhead. As far as she could tell, they were alone. Seth would be able to lead the group through Lizardfolk terrain over the next four hours if they moved quickly.

"Not much help! Although I expect that the Yuan-Ti god will be worse to deal with than the Bullywugs'!"

Simon returns the head to his pack and prepares to follow Seth through the swamp.

In reply to Simon (msg # 271):

"Did you really expect it to help? It's not here voluntarily, after all..."

Telric shrugged and followed along.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:09, Wed 31 Aug 2022.

”The Yuan-Ti seek to manipulate the young Dragon. They hope It will help them rebuild their empire, and that the blood spilt by Baleful will help stir their God from millenia of sleep.”

Lenelle paused, thinking about that a moment;  involuntarily, her eyes went to Sprinkle, as she remembered the priestess getting swallowed.

And her mouth opened briefly, in horror, as she contemplated worse than that.  She busied herself, checking her gear, trying to still her imagination, while grasping there was an even greater threat than Baleful...

But though it would be some time, before she grew conscious of it, the menace of a demon-god engaged her in a way the dragon alone had not.

Simon paused, as the head started speaking again, while he was stuffing it into his pack.

"Now that is of interest! Are the Yuan-Ti planning a ritual? Or will they simply trick Baleful into killing in the the god's name? Or is there some other plan?"

”The Yuan-Ti wait with the patience of a serpent beguiling the unwary bird. They will rebuild their empire on a mountain of corpses for their dreaded god, Merrshaulk.”

"A subtle plan. Kill everyone to awaken your slumbering god. Another reason to rid the world of Baleful...then I suppose we can consider the Yuan-Ti?

But that will be a discussion for another day."