The next morning as dawn breaks, you slowly make your way from your rooms to the front of the driftwood inn. The air is cold with a little frost on the ground, and in front two grumpy oxen are hitched to a wagon. Standing in front is an equally unimpressed and familiar halfling, rugged up with a cloak, and arms crossed, moving his feet to stay warm. From the close inspection, you can see he has bags under his eyes.

He waited for the group to turn up.

<post what order you come in and such, then we will get moving>

Solgran woke before the sun, as he always had. He ordered breakfast, but kept it as simple and mobile as he could, as he was always eager to get a good, early start to any day.

"These are the goods that Gundren ordered? Thank you, sir. I'll take it from here. It looks like you could use some well earned sleep." Solgran introduced himself to the fellow as needed, but assume Gundren had given names and descriptions for the wagon-loaders to expect.

With the wagon ready to go, Solgran loaded his greatsword into the bed of the wagon where he could easily reach up to retrieve it when needed, and then propped himself up against the side of it to finish off his breakfast and await the others.

The sounds of the camp are muted in the pre-dawn light. Having packed my few possessions the night before I am ready to leave after a quick wash with water collected the night before. Taking a spot with some other early risers, I help prepare the morning meal for the rest of the camp: peeling vegetables, stirring pots, what ever is needed. When the food is ready I take my portion, eat half, and give the rest to one of the hungry children flitting about the camp. It is time to go.

Say my farewells and trading grips with some familiar faces I walk out of Neverdeath heading towards the Blacklake District and the Driftwood Tavern. The expected wagon is parked out fron of the tavern with the halfling from last night half-asleep near the drivers seat and Solgran leaning against the side of the bed finishing his breakfast. The man is certainly large. Nodding to them both, I move to the back of the back of the wagon and stow my bag. There should be enough space for one or two of us to ride in the back for awhile during the day if needed. I will have to speak with the others about a rotation.

Peck...peck...peck...

With a lazy wave of her arm, Amalia chased her owl away, but the bird just came back, pulling her hairs now.

Ouch! Cut it out Ophelia! Let me sleep!

The owl hooted loudly in the cleric's ear and pinched her hard on the lobe, almost drawing blood. It nimbly avoided another half hearted slap then flew to the door, starting to loudly tap on it with its beaks. Amalia grunted and turned on the bed, putting the blanket over her head.

Undaunted, the snow owl found another target and attacked the now exposed toes of the teenager, finally getting her to wake up, angry at the bird.

What's gotten into you, you miserable waste of feathers?

Again, the snow owl went to the door and reality dawned on her.

By Selune.... no no no, I'll be late!

Scrambling to get dressed and pack her meager possessions, it's a disheveled cleric that found the chariot, a steaming loaf of bread clamped in her mouth as she struggled to close her bag.

Yulin spent the evening shopping, finding what merchants she could to aid her in preparing for her sudden departure. Clothes, cosmetics and essentials she had; she even had a custom-tailored suit of leather armor gifted to her by a prospective patron in Waterdeep. What she failed to consider was armaments and she was very displeased to have had walked into a weaponsmiths to seek blades for the journey ahead. Such primitive means of conflict resolution were above her and while she appreciated the glory and spectacle of violence as much as any of her race, she was more one to watch than participate. The greatest of tales were told when blood flowed. Yulin would just prefer to do the storytelling than the bloodletting. So, she settled on a rapier and a dagger, both delicate and elegant weapons. Her decision made more on the beauty of the blades as accessories than any sort of functionality in combat.

Following her shopping she held true to her word about a bath and later in the evening was comfortable and content in the steaming waters of the Last Respites common baths. She sat in the bath, her head laid back on a folded towel and her eyes closed, a small grin on her face in the knowing that all eyes in the establishment would be on her. She had visited a place in Waterdeep with an admiring noble once, a strange place that the human referred to as a 'zoo'. It had all sorts of primitive creatures for the humans to point at. Bathhouses reminded Yulin of the zoo, only in reverse; she visited so the primitive creatures could ogle and stare at her in astonishment and amazement. She always liked the attention, the wonder bordering on worship, the simple-minded and yet lovable creatures curious and yet abashed.

She awoke the next day, far later than dawn, in her rooms at Mateo's Inn. It was a simple establishment and not one she ever admitted to living at, she would never admit her wealth fell far below her taste. But hopefully that was about to change with the Gundren mountain creature's excursion to Phandevin. She looked out of her window with disgust at the morning frost and sighed as she wiped herself down, set her hair and got dressed. Today it was elegant travelers’ attire, a shaggy rothé-fur coat in grey and brown covered tight leather pants and well-made leather boots. Under the coat Yulin wore a green cotton blouse with a ruffle neck and cuffs. Her lyre and coin purse were on her hip and multiple necklaces and rings, all colored gold, adorned her. Breakfast was delivered and eaten in her room as she readied herself.

She ended up in a small argument with the inns staff that morning as she requested someone to carry her chest from her rooms to the Driftwood Tavern and it wasn't until she had paid three of the standing staff two silvers each that one agreed to carry the trunk across the city.

So it was that Yulin arrived at the designated place, well past the designated time, dressed in an elegant fur coat and jewellery and with a human carrying a heavy chest of her clothing, costumes and belongings. Dumping the chest into the bed of the wagon the human, red and out of breath from the journey gave a mocking bow which Yulin waved away without thought.

Despite her warm clothing she shivered in the cool morning and drew her coat close around her. The black snake was nestled in the furred collar, attempting to sun itself in the morning’s feeble rays.

Allura attends...

She silently eyes the proceedings to make sure things are safe for her sister.
Wordlessly she hands a leather belt pouch full of materials (Healer's Kit) to the Cleric of Selune Amalia.

She then boosts herself up into the cart.

(-5 GP purchase of Healer's Kit for Amalia. Also -4gp for iron rations for herself and her sister.)

As people began arriving, Isasah began to cheer up, his baggy eyes even lessened in hope of his task being done. Seeing the barbarian first, the halfling nodded. "Yes Master Solgran.....this is the gear ordered. Meagre by Neverwinter's standards, but for the job master Gundren has at hand, most necessary. His share are mainly tools, but the rest are for the town in general."


The halfling smiled as he stomped his feet. "With you all here, i will take my leave. I wish you all the luck of the realms."

The halfling then retreats to the inn with a smile.

<OOC: just waiting on two posts then we will; set off on the road.>

Yana had arrived a little bit late, having taking perhaps more time than necessary to pack her gear.  She was a bit too meticulous at times.
She had done some shopping with her sister the night before, and had later enjoyed a bath at the inn (she'd considered the serpent woman's invitation,  but in the end had to admit to not feeling social enough to indulge in such activities)

She approached the wagon,  nodding to the departing halfling as he passed her.  Nodding to the group,  she climbed aboard the wagon, getting out her crossbow and prepared to be an informal sniper position as they traveled.

Allura helps her sister up into the wagon.

Amalia had just managed to close her bag, the scalding hot fresh bread hurting her mouth when Allura stumped in and brusquely shoved a bag in her hands, almost making her drop her breakfast. Awkwardly, she managed to put her own pristine looking bag in the chariot before removing the loaf from her mouth.

Thanks... I guess? What is it?

But the warlock was not around her anymore, helping Yana climb in the chariot. Sighing, she tore a big bite from the bread and started munching on it while looking at the bag dropped in her hands... clean cloths, bandages, poultice, a full healing kit! Smiling, she approached the asocial tiefling and said, just as a snow owl was perching itself on top of the chariot, hooting.

Thank you Allura, this will be useful

Allura nodded, "I figured even if you didn't know how to use it, you would be good enough to get it into the hands of one who did."  She offered her hand to help Amalia up into the cart.

The cleric accepted the hand and was hoisted up the cart, hoping to find a spot to continue sleeping. Getting up with the sun was not in her habits, as she preferred the night and the glory of Selune. Yawning, she nodded to Allura, Yana and Yulin, already in the cart.

Good morning ladies, may the blessing of Selune be on you and this expedition. Allura, you found the right hands for this healer's kit, do not worry about it.

Letting her eyes roam on the content inside, she frowned, as the cart was packed, with barely enough space for the four women inside.

I'm not sure we are intended to travel here all the way. Maybe if I sit with the driver?

Turning towards the smelly ox that was supposed to pull the vehicle, she asked aloud.

Who is driving this thing? Are we waiting on a driver?

Yana smirked and chuckled wryly.
"Was our dwarven friend just assuming that one of us was a wagoneer?   I suppose i can take the reins if no one else wants to."

"I was planning to walk, but I've seen them operated often enough to make do. You basically just have to nudge them to go and reign them in to stop, tug left or right for turns. Not much to it."

Allura waits for a driver to be seated an all to be ready to move then she chants briefly in infernal, [Language unknown: "Ostopl u ! Ri ! Omnesast Ense !"]

There is a crackling of energy about one of her spiked gauntlets that lances out to strike near the back hooves of the Oxen.

Allura casted a spell to startle the oxes, that protested and started to move. But the group was not complete.

Hey! Where's Snoric? Don't we wait for him?

Amalia grabbed the reins and following Solgran instructions, she pull on the reins to make sure the chariot would not move now, until the gnome was with them.

Please don't do that again, Allura. We are not ready to roll yet!

By Selune, that one is unpredictable! Worse than me!

In reply to Allura Whitlock (msg # 15):

Yana raised a sardonic eyebrow
"We appreciate ypur enthusiasm,  Sister, but causing a stampede in the middle of town is probably counter productive "

Allura sneared, "The toy maker, Really ? Don't you think were doing them a favor not placing their life to the test on the open road."



A light shrug and she sat down in the cart, "So be it sister, and cleric of Selune."

In reply to Allura Whitlock (msg # 18):

Yana shrugged
"One would presume that a Locksmith like myself wouldn't be needed during a routine delivery,  either.   But it seems that the dwarf has something else in mind, that he'll go into detail with later on.  So if he wanted a Toymaker to tag along, then he probably has his reasons.  Gundren has his flaws, but whimsy isn't one of them."

Looks at her sister, ""I'm not so sure." Shrugs slightly then takes out her sword and whetstone and prepares to spend some time maintaining and cleaning her weapons.

Yulin looked around the others, greeting them as her chest was loaded into the wagon. As the human porter left, she studied the wagon and what space was remaining with a small frown. Eventually she sighed, this was another problem she had not considered and likely one one of many to come; was she to walk? The Gundren mountain creature could not have expected her to walk to Phandevin; what did he say? A couple of days? On foot? Ridiculous. She had traveled from Waterdeep to Neverwinter on foot like a peasant, begging for reprieve from passing merchants and hiding under a cloak during nights at shared camps. She knew very well that traveling such way was not for her and she would do everything she could to avoid it.

Fortunately that terrible week had given her some experience in hitching rides and Yulin hopped up onto the tail board of the wagon, raising one knee before her and letting the other leg hang down behind the cart. It was a comfortable enough position for traveling being in the sun and open air and she leaned back against the corner of the wagon as she drew out her lyre and rested it in her lap. At the discussion of a wagoneer being needed Yulin made no interjection but looked to Yana as it was offered, curious as to the human's ability to drive a cart. It was again something Yulin had no interest in learning and not for the first time she dreamed of her own carriage and coachman, no need to rely on the generosity or service of others.

She was seated comfortably when the horses were spooked by some crackling energy from the devil. Fortunately she held her balance as the cart lurched forward before the hatchling took control of the beasts. Yulin gave little reaction to the jolt, leaned back again and started to play her lyre. It was a bright tune, of joyful tempo and as it reached crescendo the yuan-ti started to sing. With the song started in earnest it was clearly an elvish tune however the yuan-ti's comprehension of the language was lacking and it was only after a single verse that she ceased her song to focus on the strumming of her strings.

Yulin followed Allura with her eyes as the devil climbed into the wagon and sat down. When their eyes met she gave a shrug, she wasn't entirely following the conversation between the three other creatures; getting involved in family drama was not something she wanted. Especially after the previous night, neither creature seemed to hold any animosity towards her for her faux pas however Yulin felt it best not to press either one. At least not for the next day or two. Her fingers kept picking away at the strings of her lyre and with a small, coy grin she changed the tempo to match the steady grind of the whetstone against Allura's sword.

While the others settle their equipment and work out how we are going to manage the wagon I step away, glancing around to see if anyone is paying particular attention to us. Gundren is is not exactly subtle or discreet and if he thinks this expedition is worth this expense so will others. Puckering my lips I softly whistle a familiar note and soon Edgar is settling on my outstretched arm. Stroking the soft feathers along his back I look him in the eye and extend my will. Edgar confirms his flight feathers are properly settled before taking off to do a perimeter sweep; he is more likely spot someone watching us than I am.

As I walk back to the wagon an idea occurs to me and I pause to note it down in my journal. The book is hardly organized with various notes quickly scribbled all over the pages. Mother always told me that I should try to be organized but this works for me. I will clean it up when I have all the details worked out; right now it is just important to get the notion down on paper while it is fresh in my mind. No its not quite right yet but I think I am getting close!

I reach the wagon just as Miss Scalesong starts to sing, her voice clear and pitched to complement the gentle strumming of her lyre; unfortunately, it seems she does not know the song that well and her voice quickly falls off. I guess we all have something we are working to master.

I think I will walk the first part of the day, maybe the repetitive action will help me figure out the rest.

Perception: 19
This message was last edited by the player at 03:00, Thu 08 July 2021.

Allura for a moment is lost to cleaning and maintaining her weapons when she slowly becomes aware of the sound of the bard keeping tempo. Her glowing eyes narrow slightly and she changes the tempo of how she is sharpening her blade to see if Yulin follows suit.

Sure enough, without any reaction Yulin changed tempo to keep rhythm with the sharpening of the blade. The yuan-ti was apparently aware of Allura recognising the matching tempo as she changed the tone gracefully from the merry elven melody to a more serious song of obvious dwarven origin. Thick, clipped strings in low chords matched the whetstone and gave the impression of a song of march, an army going to war.

The slightest hint of a smile is there it doesn't remain for long but it was there if it was not some imagining. Hearing the war march she slowly starts to bob her head along to it and maintains the beat of her whetstones caress of her blade.

Yana didn't look over at the "duet" between the bard and her sister, she sighed quietly with resignation.
It was going to be a long trip.
She moved to the wagon driver's seat, familiarizing herself with the reins amd other accessories.   She looked around, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Tinker
This message was last edited by the player at 06:08, Thu 08 July 2021.

After a long enough wait Allura scowled and stood stowing her sharp blade in it's scabbard.

Her voice boomed out like a dragon, "Toy maker ! it's time to go !" As her words ended there was a boom of thunder.  Allura growled looking around for the diminutive fellow.



2 uses of Thaumaturgy
Booming Voice
Clap of Thunder

This message was last edited by the player at 06:26, Thu 08 July 2021.

Yulin ceased her playing with a frown, they were both creating such an enjoyable melody together. She sighed softly, at least there would be plenty of time for that as there would be little else to do during their travels over the next day or so. She looked to the devil curiously, what an impatient and petulant creature. Well, Yulin was not about to stand for her song being so rudely interrupted, not in the least by the tune's very composer herself.

Shortly after the tiefling loosed her magic, calling for the burrow-creature from the last evening to appear Yulin turned away from the devil and muttered, "Ss'tae'net." while again plucking her lyre.

From around a corner, 60 feet away, Snoric appeared with an exaggerated stride into the middle of the street behind the wagon. The gnome pointed to Allura, turned around and dropped his trousers, waving his pale backside back and forth before quickly raising them and started dancing a jig in the middle of the street.

Yulin accompanied the dance with a song of her own, a michievous fey melody, and cast an eye to Allura.

Casting Silent Image.

Snoric would have loved to have been the first to arrive at the wagon, he was certainly awake early enough, but his situation dictated otherwise.  His current room and board, sleeping in the storeroom of a large bakery was paid for through his work.  Well before dawn he was up working the dough he had prepared late last night and left to rise.  Now he worked feverishily to prepare the various breads, cakes, pie and other treats he did to pay his rent and board.  'Making a crust to earn a crust' the baker had jokingly said.

The owner of the establishment was lazy.  He had talent and could do so much better but his sloth meant he made few items and often they were burned as he fell asleep instead of tending his ovens.  Some days he didn't make any goods at all.  The week or so Snoric has spent in town had been good for the baker.  His wares had sold like. . .hot cakes!  The baker had earned a full coin pouch of the young gnome.  Snoric knew he could have demanded for more than the few coins and board he earned but he needed a quiet place to stay more than he needed coin.

So when he left on the final day, his pouch stuffed with various baked treats, along with several loaves of twice baked bread and other fare that would survive the roads.  Snoric couldn't help but smile as he imagined the bakers business plumetting to near zero now he had lost his 'apprentice' who actually bothered to do work.  He hadn't announced his departure, merely put his latest baked goods on the warming trays, left an 'I quit - keep my last day's pay' note, locked the doors and walked out, his satchel loaded with more baked goods worth more than he was paid in a tenday.

He was last to arrive at the wagon.  He nodded his arrival.  Pulled some fresh fruit muffins from his pack, still warm from the oven and offered them to any who desired them.  Then he popped his pack on the wagon and waited quietly.


OOC:  THose who look closely under the robe will note a lot of white powder on Snoric's clothes!
This message was last edited by the player at 06:49, Thu 08 July 2021.

Seeing two toy makers and one having a decided death wish.
[Language unknown: "Thur m hou ut !"]

The slight clinking of metal on metal as fingers closed into a fist then with a snarl a blast of deadly energy hurled at the gnome that mooned her.

"Your twin dies."



00:46, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Eldritch Blast.

00:47, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 4 using 1d10.  Eldritch Blast Damage.


This message was last edited by the player at 06:47, Thu 08 July 2021.

Not-Snoric collapses onto the ground before rising a few seconds later to continue his dance.

Yana sighed with exasperation and turned to the bard.
"Is there a reason you're using your illusions against your Traveling Companions,  again,  after we specifically asked you not to?"
He tone wasn't angry or irate.   Just...disappointed.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:56, Thu 08 July 2021.

Leaping off the cart and drawing her blade in a smooth motion she strides over to the gnome.
Tracing sharp pointed gauntleted fingers across the blade before gripping it in two hands.

"Steal my seat, share his fate." over one shoulder.

Her blade bursts into blue flames.

"Illusion ?" The sound that came after that was like nothing a person should be able to make as she turned her gaze fixed on the bard.

Snoric had not noticed his 'doppleganger' initially as he had approached from a different street but he noticed it as Allura made mention of it and then released her blast.

"Is it traditional in your cultures to show disrespect to people you have just met and must travel with?"  Rather than being offended, his tone sounded genuinely curious and studious as if he was an anthropologise studying basic social rituals.

The gnome wondered how such cultures could develop strong bonds that way.  He was not adverse to pranks, he'd pulled his share, but never on people he might trust with his life.  Still he didn't know many cultures outside of gnomes and humans.

Yulin gave a dry look to Yana as the Not-Snoric disappeared, "Perhapsss speak to your own sister about the invasive use of magicksss before thinking to criticise me again."

She resumed her tune as she continued, "An illusion is a minor issue to complain about when compared to deafening noises or throwing combat magicksss around in city streets." She was focused on her music, "It seems the errant use of magic is a problem for more than just I. I guess it is just a greater problem when you and yours are on the receiving end."

Irrespective of the humans intent Yulin wasn't about to be lectured in arcane responsibility when the creatures sister had shown to be the most prolific user of visible and audible magic in public and had shown no consideration for her fellows. She had been willing to ignore the fact however if this was to be a pressing issue between the group then she was happy to agree to limiting the use of magic. By everyone.

She looked to Allura as the tiefling stalked back from the illusion, "Sit down, or are you going to attempt more bloodshed in the middle of city streetsss."

The burrow-creature, she decided, had the only right to be upset and so she did not reply.

In reply to Yulin Scalesong (msg # 35):

Yana shook her head, sounding tired of the conversation.
"Yes, I'll be speaking to her as well.  But that changes nothing about what i said to you."

A very long trip indeed

"I have no problem with bloodshed in the streets of a city or in the wilderness. You had your warning Bard it seems you chose to dismiss it. Please test it again, people die of many things in this world, and at the hand of monsters is one of them."

Allura will find her place in the wagon though any semblance of peace in her form is gone.

In reply to Allura Whitlock (msg # 37):

Speaking tiredly, Yana glanced at her sister.
"Perhaps, dear sister,  you might wish to at least to delay your violence until we're away from civilization and so many witnesses?"

"They should see what happens when they incite monsters, dear sister. Why live under blissful ignorance. I will stay my hand for you."

She sheaths her sword the flames going out with a light pfff.

Closing her eyes.

[Language unknown: "Eche tralwh, Arasro Ous, Venvenred Shethioun, Ncekwh Ameardhas,..." ni i it.]

Closing my eyes, as if somehow that would deafen the childish posing and pouting by Miss Scalesong and Angry Whitlock, I move my hands through carefully practiced movements and whisper the words. Opening my eyes I find both of them collapsed to the ground in blessed silence.

Shaking clear of the fantasy; if only that would solve the problem rather than make it worse. I have a feeling those two might not be worth the trouble they bring.

Stepping up to Snoric I accept one of his muffins with a nod and a, "Thank you," before returning to my place beside the wagon. I hope we can get moving soon, I want to be gone from here before one of them creates a bigger scene and the watch get involved.

Fantasy:
Sleight of Hand - 5
Cast Sleep: 24 hp

This message was deleted by the player at 11:37, Thu 08 July 2021.

Another reckless use of magic to call out to Snoric, that must have waken up half the block. Another illusion, this time of the gnome mooning the group and a retaliation with an actual attack spell! And when Snoric showed up, covered in white powder, Allura actually challenged him with weapon drawn!

Oh, by the merciful tears of Selune, it's too early to have drama like that!

Seeing that the stubborn tiefling would just not listen to any kind of reason, Amalia turned to her hopefully more level headed sister.

Yana, I know we just met, but it's obvious to me that Allura has a massive chip on her shoulder. While I can understand that she probably has a good reason for her anger, we are not responsible for her state and should not have to take the brunt of her bad temper. We have been hired, all of us, by Gundren to do a short job, and we can't be threatening and attacking each other before the journey even starts!

She did a little smile, trying to soften her lecturing.

Maybe it would help if we knew the source of this pain she is feeling?

The flour covered gnome offered a freshly baked muffin and the cleric accepted with a smile.

Sir Snoric, you seem to have had a fight in a bakery, may I help you clean up? A simple spell, and I am asking your permission to use it on you.

While she was focusing her intent on the gnome, the real message was for the rest of the party, to not use spells without permission, or real need... she wouldn't ask if a healing spell was needed!

Snoric looked at Amalia confused for a second then looked down and himself and grinned.  He spent so much time in the bakery he often overlooked the flour.  It didn't bother him, but he thought the example the cleric was setting by asking for consent was worth being enforced.

"I worked in a bakery to pay my board while in town.  After a while you forget about it.  Still it's better than if I worked in an abbatoir."  He smiled at his own weak joke.  He nodded at Amalia.  "You have my permission. . .and my thanks."

Amalia put the fresh and tasty looking muffin on the bench and left the cart, to be closer to the gnome. While she didn't need to do it, her spell could be cast at a short distance, she wanted to proximity to talk to the gnome.

Your muffin is smelling really good, Sir Snoric, I'm looking forward to taste it. I have dabbled in the kitchen also, while doing my chores for the temple, but I don't think the skill of peeling potatoes and carrots will be very useful in this adventure.

Exaggerating the motions for the spell, she willed the flour to detach itself from the gnome's clothing, making it drop in a small pile on the ground. Looking at him she spotted another stain that she could clean up and she casted her cantrip again.

There, that's better. Have you known our employer for long? I just met him yesterday, I would like to know him a little more.

Climbing back on the driver's seat, she extended a hand towards the gnome to help him climb up.

And she sank her teeth in the pastry, clearly enjoying it.

Cast Prestidigitation on Snoric to clean him up
This message was last edited by the player at 12:53, Thu 08 July 2021.

Settling into the seat beside Amalia, Snoric lays out the rest of his muffins.  "They won't keep long so we should enjoy them.  I have other goods that will last longer, though at the expense of taste."

He follows his own advice and picks up a muffin, this one dotted with raisins and chunks of apple.  As he munches he talks.  "I don't know Gundren that well, in truth I barely know him.  I met him one day on my way to Neverwinter from further south.  His cart was damaged and I helped repair it.  Broken axle, quite simple really.  Still he thought a lot of it and he gave me the tome of a gnomish inventor in payment.  I'm not sure why he was so generous.  His thanks was enough, a good meal a bonus."

"In reality we spent less than a day together.  I shared supper and his fire for a night.  I never saw him again.  When I get the letter asking for my help I thought it was a hoax and nearly didn't come.  I was so suspicious I came disguised."

With people testing the limits of each other as they come, It appears the tenseness between the fiery Allura and unique Yulin seemed to reach a stale mate just as Snoric arrived. With the group at the ready, people set off on the road to phandevin.

With the frost clearing early, the trail became soft as the oxen moved along slowly, and though a pleasent journey, the going was slow. The first day went by quickly, and you found a campsite about 9 hours later in which to stay. The group as a whole found it aquard in finding their rythum, but each found a pace in which to do things....some more than others, so when dusk arrived, a warm fire outlined the wagon, the oxen eating and resting and a cool night.

The next moring dawned with no problems, and warmer than the last, so when all awoke to a warm meal, spirits were high as the group set off.

This was short lived after being on the the Triboar Trail for about half a day on the second day. As you come around a bend, you spot two dead horses sprawled about fifty feet ahead of you, blocking the path. Each has several black-feathered arrows sticking out of it. The woods press close to the trail here, with a steep embankment and dense thickets on either side.

Amalia was half awake in the front seat of the chariot, having spent most of the previous night basking in the moon's rays, praying, and volunteering for shift duty in the middle of the night. Everyone could see that her eyes glowed blue in the dark, and she readily answered the questions, saying that she was able to see in the dark, a gift of her goddess. She actually explained that she preferred the night, no surprising Osmon, who knew her as a night owl.

Suddenly the chariot stopped, fully waking her up. Seeing the horses carcasses, she frowned, suspicious. Whistling softly, she called the snow owl to her and it perched itself on her shoulder, playfully picking at her hairs.

Ophelia, go fly over the woods around those horses, something does not seem right here. Let me know if you see any creatures.

With a hoot, the owl took flight.

Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 21,18 using 1d20+3,1d20+3 with rolls of 18,15.  Ophelia perception check (advantage).

"Keep the Oxen well back from that sister."

Unstows her shield setting it on her arm.

"Those that can fight up close with me." She slips out of the cart.

Gundren came ahead of us. I wonder

Looks to Solgran, "Off to the side of the road, rather then in the open ?"


I think the speech to Ophelia is personal not aloud
 ?
If so will continue with above actions

This message was last edited by the player at 16:01, Thu 08 July 2021.

Yana stopped the wagon,  readying her crossbow, just in case.

Snoric had been walking beside the wagon, a chance to stretch and enjoy the min-morning sun.  When the potential trouble was spotted he moved to the treeline to the left of the wagon, trying to use the trees for cover and partial concealment.  He notched a bolt in his crossbow and watched, waiting to provide ranged support if needed.

Perception - 17
This message was last edited by the player at 02:02, Fri 09 July 2021.

Solgran retrieved his sword from the wagon bed without saying a word. He did it carefully, knowing full well that if this were an ambush they'd have already been spotted, and if not there was no need to make unnecessary noise to draw attention back to the road.

~Black arrows? Probably goblin in these woods. Surely there are no Underdark...~ He stopped his analysis when Allura spoke, so he could listen to her questions.

He nodded his agreement while motioning to the two sides of the road, and spoke softly, "Arrows came from both sides. You on one, me on the other. Anyone else on the road between us."

19:47, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  Perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:47, Fri 09 July 2021.

Allura nodded and took to the right side of the road. Keeping her shield up and interposed between herself and whatever forces may be in the woods if there were indeed still forces in the area. "Get low sister." She said. Calmly waiting to see what the owl might report on it's return.


18:49, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 16 using 1d20.  Perception.

This message was last edited by the player at 00:49, Fri 09 July 2021.

Extremely bad timing! Having flown much of the day, Edgar is resting face down in the wagon bed while I take my turn walking beside the wagon as we round the corner to find the dead horses.

Shit!

As the others prepare and Amalia's Snowy Owl, she may regret that colouring, takes off to investigate the road ahead I pull myself into the bed of the wagon and begin re-arranging items to create myself some cover I can fight from. Hopefully Angry and Solgran can keep whatever is out there away from the wagon and all I will need to worry about are arrows.

Only need to worry about arrows. I think I have made some poor choices recently!

Edgar sits up and looks my way in response to my soft whistle. As he meets my eyes, I gesture towards the trees near the likely ambush point and extend my will causing him to launch into the air and circle the area twice before settling down in the upper branches of a tree south of the road.

Satisfied with my position, I murmur a minor spell and an chest, slightly larger than Miss Scalesong's, appears propped over my position, resting on the goods to either side.

Now all I can do is wait and see what happens.

Summary
Edgar
Move: Flies from the wagon and takes cover in the upper branches of the trees immediately south of the dead horses, assuming top of the image as north.
Action: Dash if necessary
Action: Perception - 19 (if allowed)

Osmon
Moves: Climbs into the back of the wagon.
Interaction: Moves items to create a spot where he has cover to the front and both sides.
Action: Cast Minor Illusion to create an illusionary chest immediately over his position, bridging the cover to either side (my intent is to block him from sight, including from above but not to the rear).
This message was last edited by the player at 01:48, Fri 09 July 2021.

Behind her shield with her free hand she motioned so those in the cart could see. She pointed Northward then held up two fingers.

To her sister she imparted a more clear message.

Solgran gave a single head nod in response, held up one finger, and pointed to the north as well.

The morning of the group’s departure Yulin spent in the back of the carriage with the burrow-creature and the hatchling. The gnome’s breakfast cakes were surprisingly good and while Yulin was not a fan of the sugary sweetness she did appreciate the fruits and berries buried within the muffins. She said as much to Snoric, complimenting him on his bakery and not so subtly requesting if he would continue his craft while on the road together. Yulin emphasised her requirement for no meat in her dishes, explaining that she had been forced to devour so much raw flesh as a hatchling that she never wanted to taste it again. Yulin gladly continued her previous evening’s conversation with the purple haired hatchling, happy to explain the importance of homogeneity and hierarchy in society and while Amalia may have disagreed and their views were at an impasse the young human gave her much to consider.

Surprisingly, even for Yulin, following the midday meal she took to foot. This time she spent the afternoon beside the wild human. She continued playing her lyre as she walked and while she knew little about the human she did notice his big sword. So that was what she discussed, she was curious and questioned the practicality of the weapon but did comment on the blade suiting Solgran. She mentioned her own blades, only recently purchased, and her reluctance to wield them in combat having never drawn blood before.

As the group made camp that evening Yulin set up her tent with great difficulty and frustration and, after taking much longer than it should have, she retired early and did not rise until breakfast had almost passed. This morning was spent with Amalia and her not-mate human. She recalled the human mage's comments on the night they met on her illusion and his appreciation of it, if not the intent. Yulin leaned into discussing the arcane and while no expert herself she certainly ended the morning with an appreciation for Osmon and his knowledge of the arcane arts.

She was seated back on the tail board of the wagon and in the middle of a song when it stopped after the mornings travel on the Triboar Trail. Hopping down off the wagon to look for the reason for the delay Yulin frowned at the two pin cushioned corpses on the road and then looked overhead as the two owls of the party took to the air. She looked between the group, now alert and looking into the trees. "Is there trouble?" She asked hesitantly, her eyes followed the gaze of the others looking along the tree line before she moved back to the rear of the wagon.

As it appeared something had been sighted to the north Yulin kept close to the rear of the wagon, an ambush? Until more was known she was not about to leap into a fight. Her armor and weapons were in her chest, she hadn't even considered the need for them during the travel. She crouched down behind the wagon.

Yana looked around at the group still around the wagon.
"Well, there seems to be goblins hiding in the bushes, at least two."
She looked around, though the sun was in her eyes.
OOC:20:36, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 9 using 1d20+1.  Perception.

Ophelia shared her vision with the cleric and the young woman nodded. Taking her shield and warhammer, she went first to Solgran, guarding the north side.

2 goblins, a little after the horses, in the bushes.

Trying to not do too much noise, she moved towards Allura and told her,

There are 3 goblins between us and the horses on this side. Selune, guide us!

Hefting her heavy warhammer, she decided to stay beside the teifling, as Ophelia as seen more goblins on this side.

Speaking to the group around her Yulin asked, "What do we do? Are there more?"

She peeked around the end of the cart towards the corpses of the horses. "Perhaps an illusion?" She asked seriously. Despite the suggestion there was no tone of mockery or any insinuation regardless of her recent history with the spell. "I can send one of us out to inspect the horses. It may draw them out, or reveal their numbers. It may buy us some time to get into a better position."

She had no mind for martial tactics and had survived out in the world so far by her guile and charm. As charm would be unlikely on a pack of goblins perhaps she could trick them. She shook slightly as she crouched behind the cart, her pulse raced, the excitement and fear in anticipation of the coming fight reaching her. She didn't really want anyone in the group to be hurt and by the looks of those horses the goblins were not only a reasonable shot with a bow but had no hesitation in taking the lives of other creatures.

Solgran asked "How far?", and drew a javelin from his quiver. He waited a moment for a reply, then drew in a deep breath, locked eyes with Allura, and nodded.

He looked at Amelia with a side-eyed glance, "Stay close." This encounter was inevitable, he knew, and the chance for surprise on either side was now gone. The only thing left was to go to it.

Getting this out of the way:
23:25, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 12 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

even as Amalia moves around, the edge of teh forest launches into action as arrows come flying out. Most miss the targets entuirely, with one hitting one of teh oxen, the otehr hitting amalia's shield with a ping. The arrows are noteworthy as being the same color (black) and poor quality as what killed the horses.

<OOC: Ok At this point i am going to ask for iniative from you all as well as combat moves. Also everyone can reroll perception rolls, amalia with advantage as you know where the two main groups are thanks to the vision with your owl.

You have no more than 48 hours people.....welcome to your first battle>

As the forest came alive and arrows flew, Solgran stood tall and looked for the goblins. He judged distances to those he saw and threw the javelin before closing with the greatsword in hand.

Combat was an exciting time. Nerves. Fear. Thrill. Adrenaline. Uncertainty. It was scary, but you felt a certain level of alive that you couldn't easily find otherwise. Some people went mad with it, others couldn't handle it and shut down completely. For Solgran, the world simply became sharper, colors more intense, sounds oddly much quieter, by voices more clear. For Solgran, it lead to the comfort of memories from his childhood. He didn't see things, or imagine them, he simply felt them, as though all of that potential made him love and appreciate life and the people he shared it with, that much more.

As the attacks began, a smile of contentment appeared on Solgran's face.

Perception: 12 (original 14)
Initiative: 12
00:57, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Perception.
23:25, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 12 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

Bonus: Rage for 1 minute (+2 dmg, resistance, Str advantage)

IF - I act before goblins reach melee with me
Action: Throw Javelin at a ranged target I can see (sent contingencies in Discord DM)
Result: Hit AC 18 for 5 Piercing damage (don't think Rage adds to thrown)
Move: close to melee with another target I can reach, (drawing greatsword)
01:03, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 18,5 using d20+5,d6+3.  Attack: Javelin.

IF - I'm already in melee by my turn in initiative
Free: drop the javelin
Action: Attack with Greatsword, Miss AC 8 for 14 damage
01:20, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 8,12 using d20+5,2d6+3.  Attack: Greatsword.

Reaction: Greatsword attack, Miss AC 10 for 8 damage
If one of them triggers an opportunity attack, either by attacking an ally when they're within 5 ft of me, or trying to disengage or move out of my range:
01:22, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 10,6 using d20+5,2d6+3.  Attack: Greatsword.

Round 2
Move: into melee with another target if needed
Action: Dash if required - OR -
Action: Greatsword attack, hit AC 24 for 13 slashing damage
08:03, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 24,11 using d20+5,2d6+3.  Attack: Greatsword.

If no target is within even 60 feet, but they are within 150
Move: 30 ft closer, draw Javelin
Action: Throw Javelin, Miss AC 8 for 6 piercing
08:09, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 8,6 using d20+5,d6+3.  Attack: Javelin.

This message was last edited by the player at 13:10, Fri 09 July 2021.

Snoric, spotting a pair of the goblins crept forward through the trees at the edge of the road, closing the distance a little more.  Then he stopped and drew Ultio from it's holster.  This was the first time he'd ever fired the weapon at a living being.  He'd dissassembled and reassembled it hundreds of times, fired it scores, but never at a living being.  All this passed through his mind in the moment it took him to cock, aim and fire.

A load roar emerged from the weapon along with a puff of smoke.  Snoric barely had time to see his bullet strike a tree near the goblins before he fell into his reloading action.


Initiative - 14
Movement - Close to within 30ft of nearest goblin he spots.
Ranged Attack - 8 (Assuming I miss)
This message was last edited by the player at 22:33, Fri 09 July 2021.

Yana fired her crossbow at the closest good target


OOC:
08:08, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 7 using 1d8.  Damage .
08:08, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  Crossbow 2nd shot
03:55, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Crossbow. 1st shot
03:56, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 4 using 1d8.  Damage
03:55, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Perception .
03:54, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 23 using 1d20+3.  Initiative

This message was last edited by the player at 13:09, Fri 09 July 2021.

Osmon
Initiative: 16
Perception: 15

Alright this is fine, Dad and Minna prepared me for this. A black-fletched arrow sprouts from the side of the wagon bed behind me with a loud thud, the point of its crude iron head just piercing through the wooden plank, and I drop to the floor of the wagon bed. Do not freak out.

With a deep, shaking breathe I raise my head up into my illusion, the chest appearing wispy and transparent to my knowing eyes, and gazing out while mentally directing Edgar to search for any more ambushers. Where can I do the most good?

Turn 1 Option 1 (there are a group of 3 Goblins within 90 ft and a 20 ft radius of each other that I can affect without catching any allies in the AOE)
Seeing a cluster of attackers I draw a quartz crystal from an inner pocket in my jacket and holding it tight in my right hand whisper the words and move my hands in a pattern that I have thought about but never used in anger, The black smoke within the otherwise transparent crystal swirls and twists within the crystalline structure as the spell is released and I drop back into my cover.

Turn 1 Option 1 Summary
Move: Stand up from prone, staying within my cover and not leaving the area shielded by my Minor Illusion.
Action: Cast Sleep at the largest cluster of Goblins (at least three) that I can affect without hitting any allies in the AOE for a total of 16 HP.
Move: Drop out of site behind my cover (dropping prone if necessary)
Reaction: Cast Shield if I am hit with an attack.
(My intent is to maximise my cover getting either half (+2 AC) or three-quarters (+5 AC cover) while either physically or with my minor illusion getting out of any attackers line of sight (giving them disadvantage on the attack roll)

Turn 1 Option 2 (there are no good targets for Sleep, see above)
With the enemy spread out like this my options are limited. Seeing a single target I whisper an oft practiced spell  pointing my right index finger at the lone attacker causing a two inch tongue of flame to flash down it and streak towards the target before I duck back down

Turn 1 Option 2 Summary
Move: Stand up from prone, staying within my cover and not leaving the area shielded by my Minor Illusion.
Action: Cast Firebolt at a lone Goblins (preferably one that is already injured) rolling 6 (20 if I am unseen by my target thanks to Minor Illusion) to hit for 4 damage
Move: Drop out of site behind my cover (dropping prone if necessary)
Reaction: Cast Shield if I am hit with an attack.
(My intent is to maximise my cover getting either half (+2 AC) or three-quarters (+5 AC cover) while either physically or with my minor illusion getting out of any attackers line of sight (giving them disadvantage on the attack roll)

Turn 2
With my magical reserves already waning I need a target I can remove with a minor spell. Taking aim at one of the attackers I call on Edgar and wait for the owl to strike.

Turn 2 Summary
Move: Stand up from prone if needed, staying within my cover and not leaving the area shielded by my Minor Illusion.
Action: Ready Firebolt for after Edgar completes the Help action on a target.
Move: Maximise use of cover while holding my spell.
Reaction: Cast Firebolt at the target of Edgar's Help action (gaining advantage) rolling 20 to hit for 8 damage or casting Shield if I am hit with an attack first.
(My intent is to maximise my cover getting either half (+2 AC) or three-quarters (+5 AC cover) while either physically or with my minor illusion getting out of any attackers line of sight (giving them disadvantage on the attack roll)

Either turn option HIGHEST PRIORITY (if an enemy is within Melee range of Osmon)
Move: Stand up from prone if necessary
Action: Dodge like a motherfucker.
Reaction: Cast Shield if hit with an attack.

Edgar
Initiative: 8

Turn 1
As the combat breaks out Edgar takes a careful look around for any other Goblins trying to sneak up on the party passing on the info to Osmon if he sees any.

Action: Perception 19

Turn 2
Swooping down at lone Goblin, Edgar slashes towards its face with his talons and flies around its head before swooping back into the trees to maximise his cover.
Move: Fly up to 40 ft to close with target
Action: Take the Help action targeting a Goblin (preferably one already injured)
Move: Fly up to 20 ft back into the tree tops to maximise his cover.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:54, Sat 10 July 2021.

As the flight of arrows rained around them Yulin was glad to hear no cries of pain from the gathered group. The braying panic from one of the oxen concerned her, they were not getting these supplies to Phandevin without the two beasts of burden hauling the wagon. The illusions would not work now, the goblins out in the trees clearly had a good idea of the group. They had waited to long, she had hesitated too long, she hissed a curse in her native tongue and reconsidered her plan.

All thought of subtlety gone Yulin spoke to Amalia as she moved, "Hatchling, wait." and she moved towards her.

Looking down into the girls eyes Yulin laid the back of her fingers against her cheek.

"Strengthen, brave young hatchling,
   Too early from the nest.
 Hearken to my reciting,
   In this moment of unrest."

Magic flared from her fingers and into the human, instilling fortitude and bravery into Amalia. The image of pale green scales was left on her face where Yulin had touched her as she withdrew her hand and the Bard's magic took hold.

As the battle progressed Yulin snarled as the goblins got closer. With a roll of her eyes she barked a laugh and taunted the nearest goblin, "Green skin was sooo last season!"

Initiative: 11
Perception: 9

Turn 1
Moving to Amalia
Casting Heroism on Amalia (+3 temp HP per round, cannot be frightened)
Moving back behind the cart and crouching

Turn 2
Casting Vicious Mockery (WIS DC13 3dam, disadv. on next attack) on;
1. A goblin engaged in melee with Amalia
2. A goblin engaged in melee with another group member
or
3. Any goblin in range
Use movement to duck in and out of cover behind wagon

Concentration: Heroism - Amalia

07:14, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 20,15 using 1d20+5,1d20+5 with rolls of 15,10.  Amalia perception
07:15, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 11 using 1d20 with rolls of 11. Amalia initiative (second roll was 5, so init is 11)
07:17, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 4 using 1d20+1 with rolls of 3.  Ophelia initiative


Amalia had been in fights before, but as the baby of the family, she had been covered by her fighter father and cleric mother, even her wizard brother was positioning himself to protect her, so she ended up with not much to do in those skirmishes. But now, the teenager had to pull her weight if she was to prove herself worthy of these people, of the trust Gundren had given her by endorsing her.

The arrows started flying, crude, black shafted, like the ones in the horses, and with a dull thud, one embedded itself in her shield. A few centimeters either way and she could have had that arrow in her!

Concentrate, girl! This is no game!

Yulin called her out and briefly touched the teenager, sending a wave of energy into her, and she felt energized, the magic chasing whatever sleepiness she might have felt.

Thanks Yulin.

Using her advanced knowledge of the position of the goblins, thanks to Ophelia, she targeted a goblin and started to sing her spell.

Round 1

Action : Target an ideally already wounded goblin with Toll the dead, range 60 feet, Wis Save, DC 14, 6 necrotic damage if already wounded, 2 necrotic damage otherwise.
07:34, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 6,2 using 1d12,1d8 with rolls of 6,2.  Toll the dead damage
Movement : Position herself to be only visible from one side of the road, using available cover
Free action : Mentally direct Ophelia to use the help action against Solgran's targets, and swoop out to safety (60 feet move)
Bonus action : be ready to use Word of healing, if someone drops

Round 2

Action : Target an ideally already wounded goblin with Toll the dead, range 60 feet, Wis Save, DC 14, 12 necrotic damage if already wounded, 5 necrotic damage otherwise.
007:44, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 12,5 using 1d12,1d8 with rolls of 12,5.  Toll the dead damage.
Movement : Follow Allura to stay within 10 feet of her as support
Free action : Mentally direct Ophelia to use the help action against Solgran's targets, and swoop out to safety (60 feet move)
Bonus action : be ready to use Word of healing, if someone drops
This message was last edited by the player at 13:28, Fri 09 July 2021.

Allura was focused on the Goblin's she could see and while she didn't have her crossbow in hand she had her dark deal at her command. She nodded to Amalia when the arrows started to fly and one pinged off the cleric's shield.

"Take cover by the trees, I will cover you." If Amalia does so Allura raises her shield and moves as one with the cleric getting her to the trees then releases a blast at one of the goblins she had her eye on.

The same energy the group had seen before launches at the goblin as Allura calls out perhaps a challenge ? Who knows it was in that horrible language of fiends.

[Language unknown: "Undsomdinort m usart enterayinshe !"] She chuckled darkly after her shot launches at the creature.



06:41, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

06:46, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 16 using 1d20.  Perception.

06:50, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 22 using 1d20+5.  Eldritch Blast.

06:51, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 6 using 1d10.  Eldritch Blast Damage.


Round two she draws her blade, "I need to join Solgran now, Amalia."
Moving to join Solgran and will try and work tandem with him striking at any of the creatures that had dared endanger her sister.


Move 30' trying to join Solgran.
If she reaches him and an enemy she swings her sword if she doesn't reach an enemy for her blades thirst then she releases a blast of eldritch energy at a goblin.

06:57, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 6 using 1d20+5.  Sword Strike or Eldritch blast same bonuses.
Fumble

Iniative Order

Yana (23)
Alura (21)
Osmon (16)
Goblins (15)
Snoric (14)
Solgran (12)
Amalia (11)
Yulin (11)
Edgar (8)
Ophelia (4)


<ROUND 1>

Yana's sharp eyes see several goblins to the south as well as north. From her vantage, she swings the crossbow towards the southernmost ones and fires, missing the goblin and hitting the tree, causing it to screech at you.

Allura, seeing one of the archers on the south side, didn't hesitate, summoning her mystic magic, striking one, causing a smouldering hole in it's armor and a burn on its chest. Though still alive, it was hurt badly.

Osmon, from the cart, saw the archers and fighter to the north and called fourth his magic, with the two archers dropping to the ground without a word. The warriors at their side spoke and rushed forward, scimitars in hand. Both swing at the barbarian, one missing with hands shaking at the sight of the huge man, the other hit his leg with a deep gash <Solgran takes 4 slashing damage>

The goblins on the other side had one move out ready to attack, but hesitate, while two more arrows came out, one barely missing Snoric, the other bouncing of Amalia's armor....it seemed her heavier armor had saved her twice already

Snoric, torn for a split second, removes a contraption from under his cloak, and pointing it at the goblins, pulls the trigger...a thunderous boom can be heard as the gunpowder ignotes, sending a metal projectile towards the archer, a hunk of tree shattering off, causing the goblin to look very worried.

Solgran, a deep gash in his leg, looked at it, then the goblin, his veins popping out as he dropped the javelins and slashed with his great two handed sword, missing the goblin by an inch.

Amalia, having seen the wounded goblin previously by Allura, focused her divine magic on it, and as it stood up, screamed as it held it's head, blood flowing from it's eyes and nose, as it dropped to the ground, writhing in pain, blood seeping from it's eyes and ears as it dropped to the ground, dead.


Yulin stops and turns her before she can move, speaking to her sincerely, bolstering her resolve, then goes behind the cart, looking around at the scene

<ROUND 2>

Yana again loads her crossbow and fires, this time to one of the goblins harrying the barbarian. Her aim true, she strikes it through one of it's eyes as it's head snapped back, dropping down dead.

Her sister moved up to the barbarians side, looking at her sister as she moved (And yana allowing a smug smile), to swing at the other enemy, but missed.

The wizard, standing in the cart, looks on, but hears a familiar call as his familiar perches above one of the archers. The wizard, ready for it, spun and fired a mote of fire, striking the goblin in the chest, a hole burnt through as it dropped the bow.

With already four of their comrades down, two of them dead, the goblins went from confident to desperate as they attacked. The goblin facing Solgran and Allura felt the tiefling more a threat and slashed at the woman's midsection, opening a wound in her stomach. <Allura takes 6 slashing damage *crit*>

The only two left standing, the melee fighter was stunned from the gnome's weapon, standing wondering what to do, while the archer again fired, this time at snoric, the source of the sound and damage to the  tree. The arrow flew true, striking the gnome in the chest <Snoric takes 8 piercing damage>

The gnome, grimacing in pain, pointed his firearm at the goblin frozen in fear, this time allowing for the recoil of the shot, and pulled the trigger. This time the shot his the archer with such force that half of the goblin's head was blown clean away.

Solgran, angered by the wound and by the fact the puny goblins think him less a threat, swung his sword in a high arc, somming down on the goblin's shoulder, with such force he cleaved it in two.


Amalia, seeing only one standing goblin, again channeled her divine magic, the toll of a bell causing it to drop the bow and clasp it's ears in pain. Yulin, smiling looked at the pitiful thing. "I bet that hurtsssss, doessn't it pitiful thingsss" Wether the toll of teh bell, or the sheer venom of the insult, the goblin dropped to the ground, dead.

<COMBAT IS OVER>

<OOC: Well done guys...eight enemies, and 6 are dead with two still asleep.

Some people are injured, but still alive.>

Yana: 9/9
Alura: 3/9
Osmon: 8/8
Snoric: 2/10
Solgran: 10/14
Amalia: 10/10
Yulin: 9/9

As Yulin spitted her insult and the goblin keeled over dead the battlefield was once again quiet. She looked around suspiciously and arched an eyebrow, it was mere moments since the battle had begun and already the ambush had been stopped. Was this what adventuring was like? A day or two of relaxed peace and then a moment of frantic panic and screams before things once again returned to quiet. She looked across to the goblin she had slain by her magic laced words, or maybe it was the hatchling's magic that hit the same creature. Either way, it seemed that the Gundren mountain creature had selected competent companions for her. She was unscathed and, apart from the mild racing of her heart and the adrenelin subsided, in perfect condition.

She stepped out from behind the cart and drew her lyre, the battle was done and the day won! She started playing a tune to support such an overwhelming victory when she spied Snoric bleeding and holding an arrow which had pierced his chest. She ceased her music immediately. Her pulse quickened again, her confidence shattered as she watched the blood stain the gnomes clothing. She liked the small burrow-creature and his breakfast cakes, she didn't want him to die! Yulin quickened her pace, running towards the gnome, her immediate thought was of Amalia. She could help, surely! Looking to the other side of the road Yulin shouted, "Hatchling! Come quick. It's Snoric."

She couldn't do anything herself so waited beside the gnome, worry in her eyes. Without thinking she had cast her spell on Amalia and the hatching was so protected with metal scales and shield she did not need it! What a foolish idea, she should have helped the unarmored gnome. She looked down in sympathy and regret. These poor innocent and adorable creatures given to her by Gundren were her responsibility, she was not going to let them die, she hated seeing them hurt and bleeding. She couldn't gather the anger to blame the goblins, she could have done more. She looked around, past Amalia. Others were hurt too, the barbarian had all but brushed off a slice in his leg but the devil looked to be bleeding badly as well.

Too many were hurt and there was too little she could do.

Snoric had a surge of emotions flowing through him as the battle resolved.  It was so quick, so amazingly quick.  He had always thought battle to be a slow thing but their ambushers lay dead or incapacitated in a matter of seconds.

Then there was Ultio.  He had never used the weapon in combat before and he had been amazed at its power as it blew the goblin's skull apart.  Part of him knew he should probably be disgusted or perhaps even a little bothered but he had been more fascinated by the force of the blow than any moral implications.

All these notions were fleeting as he stared down at the arrow sticking out of his chest.  He thought it would hurt more.  There was a dull ache which increased to a sharp agony when he moved the wrong way but it was bearable.  It was likely the adrenaline of the moment he knew.  He was lucky it had hit nothing critical.

Imagining the fighter types had the remaining goblins well in hand Snoric turned back to those on the cart, smiling sheepishly.  "Um, I don't suppose anyone could help get this arrow out?  I'd like to heal the wound but thing it would be better to take this thing out first."

Shaking a little from the adrenaline of combat, the cleric called out.

Lets see if we can take prisoners, we need to know what happened here!

She then looked around to see who would need care. Fortunately, no one had been dropped unconscious or death, although Snoric had suffered a serious arrow wound and Yulin called the teenager on it. Allura was seated on the ground holding her stomach, blood seeping on the ground and Solgram had an angry red slash on his tight. Assessing the priorities like she had been trained for at the temple, she went where the danger of worsening the wound was gravest, and that was Allura.

Yulin, don't touch Snoric's arrow, I'll be there soon!

Approaching the tiefling, she helped her remove her armor to correctly assess the damage and was relieved to see that only the muscles were touched, not the internal organs. Using the healer's kit bandages, she patched the wound and had her seated, back to a tree.

Rest up, you'll be all right, there was no damage to your organs. Yana, please come here and look after her, will you?

05:31, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  Amalia medecine roll on Allura.

Passing beside one of the dead goblins that her spell had hit, blood still seeping from all it's head orifices, she restrained her gag reflex, keeping her focus on the living.

It was us or them girl... us or them. Keep it together, you're needed!

Taking a deep breath to steady her own stomach, she approached the gnome, with the bard fussing over him, looking helpless. Gently putting a hand on Yulin's shoulder, she said.

It's all right Yulin, I have this.

The gnome was breathing shallowly, the quivering arrow deep in his chest. Fortunately, is was not near the heart. Unfortunately, it would be a bitch to remove.

Snoric, I will need to remove this. It will hurt, I won't be lying to you.

Finding a thick cloth piece in the cart, she casted her cleaning cantrip on it, then folded it and told the gnome to bite it. Then, avoiding to move the arrow as much as possible, she broke the shaft and started to carefully pull the arrow head out. By that time, she was already sweating and it was more difficult than she expected, but she still managed to do it. Patching the hole with bandages, she gave a reassuring smile to the baker.

There, some rest and you'll be baking those delicious muffins again in no time!

05:51, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 10 using 1d20+5.  Amalia medecine roll on Snoric.

Solgran wound was not as serious and patching him was swift. Now that everyone was fixed up, she excused herself and went into the woods to isolate herself for a moment.

And threw up, emptying her stomach's content on the ground.... she had never taken a life before.

Snoric spits out the cloth strip as he screams loudly.  By the maker that hurt!  He falls to his knees gasping for a few moments, his vision resolving from it's blurring.  The remainder was cleared once he wiped the tears from his eyes.

He nodded his thanks to the cleric before pulling a small polished rod from his pocket.  It looked like some sort of gem or a rock polished to an incredible lustre.  Muttering a few phrases he touched the item to his wound and almost immediately the wound began to heal rapidly, leaving not a trace of injury, bar the hole in his tunic.

Twisting a small dial on the bottom of the rod, Snoric spoke again, this time waving the rod over his torn tunic.  Like the wound, the clothing quickly repaired itself leaving not a trace of the damage.

Feeling a lot better, Snoric made his way towards the fallen goblin on the south side of the road.  He was particularly interested in examining the one he had fallen but would check the others for any equipment or clues while there.

Casts Cure Wounds on Self - 9HP (Fully healed)
Casts Mending on Self

Searching the four goblin down the bottom for information/treasure/anything

Quiet settles between the trees as I carefully look out from my cover, seeing the blood and viscera liberally splashed across the vegetation along the tree line to either side of the trail and the small, horribly mutilated bodies crumpled to the ground under the shade cast by the large trees. My stomach lurches and I swallow hard to keep it down, the acid burning my throat.

Do not freak out, there are things that need to be done first!

Okay first, are there any other threats in the area that we need to deal with. I let out a whistle and when I hear Edgar's screech in response I circle my right hand over my head once, index finger extended. He'll fly a patrol and let me know if he finds anything dangerous.

Alright second, what is the condition of my allies. Snoric and Allura look pretty rough but it does not look like they are in imminent danger now that the fight is over. Miss Scalesong's cry for Amalia to help Snoric rings out over the group. Seems like they have that handled for now and its not like I have much skill in that area.

Third, secure any prisoners. Climbing down from the wagon I move to the side of the road and awkwardly pull myself up the step embankment and into the trees where the ambushers had hidden. Pulling out my rope and dagger I cautiously approach the two Goblins my spell had put to sleep, the last thing I need is find out they are faking and decide to gut me. After removing anything within reach of the bodies that can be used as a weapon, I carefully move the bodies so as not to wake them, cut my rope to the appropriate lengths, and secure their hands and feet. I wish I had something I could use as a hood and gag but I do not have anything on me that I am willing to part with that fits the bill. Something I can hopefully remedy when we get to Phandalin. Now that they are secured, maybe we can separate and interrogate them to see if there are any more hidden along this trail.

Four, check on the wagon and our gear. Walking back it looks like everything came through okay; the attackers focused on those who had already stepped away from the wagon. The Oxen only suffered the one hit, I wonder if the attacker hoped to use the Oxen to pull the wagon back to their camp where they could go through it in relative privacy. And probably eat the Oxen afterwards. Whispering soft words to the wounded animal and making sure I approach slowly and from within its field of view I gently stroke it and offer it some feed to distract it. That done I take a look at wound in its flank, poring water over it from my canteen and patting it dry with some tight cloth I found in the wagon bed. Alcohol would be better but I do not think I should do that while it is harnessed to the wagon. We can deal with this properly when we camp, for now we will just have to keep an eye on it to make sure it does not get infected.

I think that is everything. While the others are busy with the aftermath I slip away into the trees, lean forward at the waist, hands braced on my knees, and am quietly, violently ill. The image of the Goblin's surprised, agonised face as fire burned into its chest setting its matted, oily hair to smoldering replays across my eyes and its painful scream echoes in my ears before they cut off with an awful gurgle. Oh gods! My stomach contracts painfully but its already empty and it just leaves me gagging at the dry heaves. It is not our fault, they attacked us and we defended ourselves; it is not like we had many options.

When the convulsions stop, I stand up and rinse my mouth out with sips of water from my canteen until the awful taste is gone. That done, I do a quick check to make sure I did not get any vomit on myself, take a deep breath, and head back to the others. The day is not over.

Summary
Osmon
Perception while approaching the sleeping Goblins 8.
Animal Handling to soothe the Ox while I treat its wound 17.
Medicine to treat the Ox 12

Edgar
Perception as he takes up over watch 23 (natural 20)
This message was last edited by the player at 13:18, Sat 10 July 2021.

The party watches as Amalia goes checking each of their wounds. Solgren grimaces, but his wound is minor compared to the rest. Allura had a deep would, though she would live with some rest. It was snoric, who was barely consious that was the worst hurt. Amalia removed the arrow and he screamed, but much to the shock of Amalia and Yulin (Who thought the little man all but dead), he had some contraption that not only healed his wounds, but his clothes as well.

The gnome stood up, disting off his hands and went to the four dead goblins south of the road as the two women, one human and yuan-ti watched with surprise as if he wasn't even injured.

The gnome searched each, but found little of value other than their armor, small sets of leather armor, two short bows with 16 arrows each, and two scimitars that looked poorly cared for.

Likewise, the magic user, scanning the sleeping goblins as he tied them, found the same on each of them...leather armor and a bow each with 16 arrows. The two who faces solgren and allura had the armor and scimitars.

osmon tied the two sleeping goblins up, moving them to the road as they stir. The goblins look at the group with concern, the  fear when they see the state of their comrades, even as the magic user disappears for a moment.

the two look at each other in panic. [Language unknown: "Ad rat orterssta ourno.  Whitek moples ti nd!"] the other swallows heavily. [Language unknown: "Whinut ill nockho enc semeet one nditfi"]

Yulin was grateful as Amalia came and tended to Snoric although was maybe a little displeased he wasn't given greater priority with the arrow sticking out of his chest. When the arrow was removed and Snoric raised the rod to his chest Yulin arches an eyebrow and the wound healed, she was not aware the gnome had the ability to mend wounds. An interesting fact to store away for later, and perhaps another group member to question about the healing arts. As Snoric mended his clothes Yulin cast her own cleaning magic as Amalia did with the flour the day they left, leaving the gnome clean as well as healthy. "Hope you don't mind." She apologised for the innocuous use of magic, "Good to see you are well." Looking exactly as he did before the fight Yulin shook her head in disbelief and a smile played across her lips as the gnome headed straight to the goblins to search them.

She stood and looked around the battlefield. Gory as it was it did not disturb her, even the goblin closest to her which seemed to have had half of its head removed by some explosive crossbow that Snoric was using. The small gnome was full of surprises. She approached the dead goblin and squatted down beside it, tilting her head she looked at it curiously. It sounded explosive, frightening and deafening as the gnome pointed the weapon, and she looked to Snoric rifling through the other corpses. Magic, she determined, especially after the healing the gnome had performed on himself.

Her attention was drawn toward the middle of the road as the goblins were bundled up and dumped down together. Yulin approached them with a frown, studying them with the same curious expression as she studied the corpse. When they started gibbering to each other she looked around the group, "Can anyone speak their language? I have a spell that might help, at least in understanding them. It may not help much in a lengthy discussion."

The two stopped talking as the yuan-ti approached, fear in their eyes.

Allura regardless of how she wanted to maintain a dark resolve grunted out from the deep slash in her side from the small creature. The glow of her eyes dimmed a bit.

[Language unknown: "Chalpo som ortec peent pemoma ame es ers, ol erssan-ithout n conestove !"]

When Amalia came to check her wound she began to respond in infernal but switched back to common, "Thank you."

As things settled she patted Solgran's shoulder a brief quirk of her lip the hint of a smile and nod. Seeing that her sister was not in harms way she moved to the horses to check their livery and for any signs they might have been Gundren and his mysterious partners.

She sat in the dusty road applying pressure to her wound and sheathing her blade.

"Our employer Gundren, this is his pony and the horse, any normal human or humanoid might be able to ride." She looked over at her...companions letting that settle in.

Steady girl... it's ok, it's passed.

The vomit smell was terrible, her empty stomach still heaving... but she couldn't stay here. Wiping the tears from her eyes, she spotted a chunky dribble that was slowly making it's way to the ground on her armor. She was shaky as she casted her cleaning spell, and had to restart it, having mispronounced a mystic word. After cleaning her mouth with some water from her water skin and splashing some of it on her face, she took a last shaking breath before going back to the party.

Two tied up goblins were on the road when she arrived, the already walking around Snoric looting the dead. Yana was tending Allura and she could see the pale faced Osmon walking about. Whistling, she called Ophelia and sent her on a wide range patrol, to detect anything of interest, more goblins, trails, settlements...

Yulin was approaching the fearful goblins and asked if anyone knew the goblin language, to which the cleric shook her head. But maybe they could understand them. She got nearer, and noticed that the two horses had been dead for a day or so, and that one was a pony... like a dwarf would ride. Fear gripped her heart and she looked at Yulin, eyes wide.

Gundren... that must be his pony...

She turned to the goblins, took a steadying breath, squatted in front of them, and, remembering the arrow still stuck on her shield, she made a show of removing it, casting a spell to repair the puncture, bringing it to pristine conditions again. Only then did she looked at them.

Hello. As you can see, your ambush was a failure, and we can't allow more travelers to fall into it. It would be regrettable to have to take more lives needlessly to stop this practice, wouldn't you agree? You must have families waiting for you. If you tell us what happened here and where are those who rode these animals, we wouldn't have to kill again.

She had spoken softly and slowly in the common tongue, having no idea if she could get through to them or even if they understood her.

08:31, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 22,7 using 1d20+3,1d20+3.  Ophelia perception check (advantage).
This message was last edited by the player at 13:31, Sat 10 July 2021.

Yulin looked to the dead horses with a grimace and as Amalia commented she looked to the young cleric. "All the more important then that we get answersss."

He fingers reached to the lyre at her side and with a few plucks of the strings Yulin chanted, ""Sa'nie'kiss."

"If they speak, I will know what they say." She looked down at the small creatures as Amalia spoke to them.

Casting Comprehend Languages.

The two goblins look at the purple haired girl, sceptical but nodded. One spoke to the other. [Language unknown: “Reieai notoreter virionast poil the ma u”] the other grunted, but looked at her. He spoke in halting common. “You no hurt us…like friends?”

Allura's eyes narrowed as she listened to Amalia try to talk with the Goblins then she heard it's words make sense.

"Did it just dare." She placed her palms on the ground and eldritch energies forcefully propelled her to standing.

She started heading towards the Goblins.

Allura let her deep bleeding wound be visible as she approached, "You and yours did this 'friend' wanna be besties!" She started to draw her blade.

The voice of her mother came in her mind, when she was imparting lessons to her wild child.

Remember Amalia, communication is key, you can solve many problems with it.

Thanks mom...

Nodding her head, she rose, putting her shield back on her back. Realizing she was stretching her diplomatic abilities, she called on Selune to help her. But she had started this relationship with the smelly creatures and had to see it through, for Gundren's and Sildar's sake. She gave a small smile to the goblin that had spoken to her in common.

I won't hurt you, if you bring us to the two riding those animals. They are our friends. We don't want friends to be hurt, just like you.

As she was saying it, she realized that she was stretching the truth a lot, having met the two of them just the day before!

Blessed Selune, please let him believe me!

09:14, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 19 using 1d20+1.  Amalia persuasion. – [roll=1625926475.08641.358677]

09:14, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 2 using 1d4.  Amalia Guidance. – [roll=1625926460.61058.358677]

As usual, the actual battle was impossible to take in as it went. Goblins rushed in, people moved to react, and chaos ensued. Ranged weapons moved to the goblins, goblins rushed in, magic met goblin with brutality and heat, and then the goblins had closed and Solgran's focus was reduced to two little green men trying to kill him before he killed them. One showed fear, but the other pulled back and blade now dripping red. ~Blood. Great. Guess I'll be feeling that one in a second.~ Whistling arrows, the thunks and thuds of weapons hitting armor or other weapons, words laced with magical energy; over time those noises blended together to form an almost relaxing cacophony, but this skirmish would be short one way or another... But then came a thunderous boom that drew even Solgran's attention and his head turned to Snoric. ~What in all the nine hells?~ Ow, there it as, the pain from the leg wound. The boom could wait. For now, he had goblins to fight. The world shifted as Solgran moved to react, and for just a moment, the chaos stopped.

He glanced at his leg with annoyance, and took and angry swing. He missed, but nearby another goblin was screaming, bleeding, now writing on the ground. ~One down.~

Chaos returned once more, starting with one of his assailants taking a crossbow bolt to the eye. ~Two.~ Other companions drawing near. Magical fire, and an internal offering of thanks that it was directed by his companions rather than at. Solgran's opponent turned and attacked Allura, cutting deep, but not deadly. Not so for his target, though, cleaving Allura's attacker nearly in two in retaliation. He'd lost track of numbers. Snoric's thunderstick machine sounded again, and nearby a goblin's head exploded, and Solgran lost track of the having lost track of numbers. The sounding of a bell, and...

Just like that, the chaos was over.

Solgran looked around, noting wounded companions, but all alive even if in pain. He drew a contented breath and the world faded back to normalcy while he observed the rest of the field. ~All of this in what? Ten seconds, give or take?~ They said magic could do weird things with time. If that was true, combat must be a natural form of magic.

As others began tending the wounded, checking on the wagon and animals, and going to address two more goblins who'd apparently passed out from the shock of battle, Solgran left them to their skillsets while he went and embraced his own. He investigated the murdered horses, and looked or signs of their riders to see if they escaped or had been dragged away. It seemed unlikely that they would be dragged off the road to be hidden, with the horses left so plainly there in the middle, but they could have ran after the goblins and died in the woods as well. It was clearly goblins who'd attacked them, but there could be more.

11:38, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 13 using 1d20+3.  Survival.
11:38, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 11 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

The goblin speaking common nodded. “Yess….we help purple hair girl for freedom. Yes. Riders of the, alive still - taken to master. One dwarfie, one huuman. Tied them and took home.” The goblin points northwest. “Trail there….hidden. We take you, you no hurt skiril and Graf?” The goblins look around at the group, and that’s when you realise they aren’t scared of yulin specificly, but the whole group. The promise of freedom from Amalia has given them a glimmer of hope

Solgran took note and returned to the group, "I have found the trail for where they took them. North, then northeast. It was not hard to find, nor to follow. Did the goblins have anything useful to tell us?"

Yana stayed in the wagon,  crossbow out, vigilant for more trouble.
She looked at her sister pointedly
This message was last edited by the player at 23:53, Sat 10 July 2021.

Snoric dragged the various equipment back to the cart.  He wasn't sure what to do with it, but he'd grown up scrounging parts for his various contraptions.  Often his iron was from discarded scraps, kindly melted down for him by a local blacksmith, then reforged into various moulds Snoric had fashioned from other throwaway items.

Finishing the task, Snoric climbed into the wagon then sagged down, the adrenaline run its course.  He looked up at Yana, here eyes scanning the forest.  He supposed he should do that too but he needed a moment.  He thought about eating one of his remaining muffins for energy but his roiling stomach suggested that was a bad idea.  His mind skipped to the fallen horses and he wondered if he should ask someone to butcher the animals.  The meat was likely fresh enough it could be used.  Though he'd need salt, did they have salt?

His mind already running in a hundred directions like it usually did, he looked up at Yana.  Almost subconsciously his hands had drawn out Ultio and had begun cleaning it.

"Is it always like this?"  He asked, giving no indication as to what 'this' was.

Allura's eyes flickered from the Goblin to her sister then back.

Yana glanced down at the Tinker,  giving him a slight smile.
"No, usually it's worse. "
She shrugged,  relenting a bit
"It's a hard thing to get used to, I'll admit,  but it can be done.   This is what most of the people in town don't appreciate.   How fleeting life can be out here, in the Wild Places of the World."

She turned,  seeming to focus on watching her sister with the surviving goblins.  There was a subtle shake of her head.

She nodded to Snoric again.
"Thank you for recovering the goblins gear.  I'm sure something will be useful "
This message was last edited by the player at 00:03, Sun 11 July 2021.

Yulin looked between the pair of goblins and Amalia, the had no spoken anything of significance in their own tongue and the one speaking common spoke it well enough to be understood. At least her spell would recognise any trickery if the creatures started planning in their own tongue.

Amalia's offer was not really a surprise to Yulin, she may have said the same herself. Whether she would have meant it or not was a different matter. She would not harm the goblins herself, that was far below her; threatening or striking unarmed and defenseless creatures. She watched the conversation carefully and as the goblin confirmed that the Gundren mountain creature was still alive she was inwardly relieved, her plans for gold and glory were not to go to waste. "A fair trade." She commented on the goblins offer to lead the group to where Gundren was being held. "Bound and gagged they cannot cause usss any issues."

As Solgryn spoke, confirming the rough direction the goblin was pointing Yulin nodded and looked down to the creature, "Who isss your master?"

Insight: Are they telling the truth and are they genuine in their offer
10:13, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 9 using 1d20+2.  Insight.

Solgran considered a reply to Snoric's question, but Yana had pretty well covered it. 'Usually' might have been a bit of a stretch, but there were times that 'usually' would have also been considered to gentle a word. Ultimately, when it came to life and death situations, it was better to expect the worst and come out pleasantly surprised than the other way around.

Instead, he remained silent and caught up on what they had learned while he was off checking tracks.

Allura's eyes flashed as she looked at her sister.

She muttered something under her breath but did not draw her blade instead watching Amalia speak to the creatures on borrowed time.

Just as Amalia was about to release the goblins so they could start on the new path for their search for the missing Gundren, Yulin declared that she would accept the deal if the goblins were left bound and gagged. While not what she was expecting, it was a sensible request, and she relented to it. The goblins would still be alive and she could free them later when they had lead them where they had brought the dwarf and his human companion.

My scaly friend has a point, Skiril and Graf. I will free you once we have our friends back. That will content those that would wish to kill you here.

She made sure that the goblins could see her peek towards the glowering Tiefling, toying with her sword. She then helped them on their floppy feet and told them to lead the way.

Reorganizing the items in the back of the wagon after my hasty efforts at creating cover before the ambush, I listen carefully to the interrogation; while she did not handle it as I would have, Amalia has done well. I am a bit uncomfortable letting them go given the likelihood of them doing this again but its hard enough killing a thinking creature during the hot blood and frantic chaos of a fight I am not sure I would be able to do it once the blood has cooled and they are no longer a threat.

With it decided to have the Goblins lead us to their camp where supposedly Gundren was taken. I quietly whisper a quick spell and send my words directly to Amalia's mind. "I apologize for speaking to you thus without your permission but you have achieved a rapport with these creatures and I think it best we limit how many of us interact with them. If we are to follow them back to their camp to retrieve Gundren we learn how many of them there are. In the meantime, I will send Edgar ahead along the trail. Oh, and should you wish to do so, you can respond to this message without the others overhearing."

With a whistle I get Edgar's attention and flatten my hand vertically and point it down the path the Goblins and Solgran indicated along with a small effort of will. With a soft hoot, he takes flight moving down the trail, weaving carefully through the upper boughs of the trees and is soon out of sight.

Allura will take her rest again applying pressure to her wound and given time since it is doubtful in her mind at least that she will be receiving healing from her companions? Allies? Acquaintances? Coworkers, yes.

She rests against a tree away from them nursing her wound till everyone is set to leave.



21:22, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 7 using 1d8+1.  Using a Hit Die to heal.


This message was last edited by the player at 03:22, Sun 11 July 2021.

<OOC: With the interrogation and searching, it is feasable for you to have short rest.>

The goblins looks at Yulin with a slight kringe, still fearful, but they answer. "Boss is Klarg. He big, scary."

Yulin nodded and knelt down in front of the goblins, "Right Klarg, isss Klarg like you? Or Human?"

At least for now they seemed compliant enough. She reached out a hand and petted the nearest goblin on the head, "Skiril, yesss? Are there many of you back at your camp? How far isss it?"

She was studying the pair with an odd curiosity. She was not angry or upset with the creatures and was actually being as polite as she was with company over the past two days. She leaned in close to the goblin's ear and whispered. "My friends can help you kill scary Klarg? Would you like that?"

The hatchling had already done so well to gain their trust, perhaps it was due to her soft words that the two small creatures were so agreeable. Still, there was always room for improvement.

Edit: 13:36, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Persuasion.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:38, Sun 11 July 2021.

The goblins look at each other, then the snake lady. “Klara no human…he like us but big, hairy. Not good master. Klang bully to goblins.” The one that doesn’t speak nods. The other goblin looks to the northeast “Big walk….half of half day. End in hidehome. If you want Klang gone, we will show you place….but we won’t go in. Other goblins punish….we show you then go.”

<OOC: anyone listening make a general wisdom check>

Solgran watched and listened, as the goblin gave further information about this Klarg creature.

22:53, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Wisdom.

Yulin smiled kindly at the creature. "Very good. Other goblins. How many others are in your 'hidehome'?" She tilted her head, "Hidehome soundsss very nice. Tell me about it, isss it big? Dark?"

She widened her eyes and gasped in performance before leaning in once again conspiratorially, "You are sneaky, clever goblins. Do you have trapsss? Surprises? Lookouts?"

13:56, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 8 using 1d20.  Wisdom.

The goblins nod. “Wes have lots of goblins in there…more than two hands worth.” It occurs to you they probably don’t know how to count. “…and traps. In path to cave as well as in cave. Clever goblins protect home.”

Yulin nodded and stood up, "Very good. Stay here for a bit while my companionsss rest up." She waggled a finger at the pair, "I don't want to see you when we let you go, no more attacking travelersss on the roads. Go far away." She waved a hand to the corpses around them, "Thisss isss what happens when you fight on the roads."

She pursed her lips in thought and took a few steps away from the goblins before turning back to watch them.

The goblin nodded his head. “We leave….go north to mountain tribes” The other looked, then imitated the other.

Having finished cleaning his weapon, collecting and categorising the goblin equipment, Snoric moved to join the others near the captives.  One thing of note was Snoric now wore his cloak open, instead of tightly wrapped around him like it had been since he first met the group at the tavern.  On his belt a holster for his pistol was visible on the right hip.  On the left was another holster, thin and long in nature for his other device.  The holster was similar in length to what would hold a wand but the radius was larger.

He walked over to the interrogation grouped, stopping to peer curiously at the bound goblins.  "Learn anything interesting?"

Yulin was deep in thought when Snoric returned from the cart after gathering the valuables. She was alternating her gaze between the goblins and the ground.

She nodded at Snoric's question, "Yesss. I believe we have enough to begin a search for Gundren." She looked around at the others, still mostly spread around the battlefield. "We should gather everyone to save myself repeating."

She turned back to the cart. "Back to the cart then?" She looked across to Solgran, "Solgran, mind being our guestsss chaperone for now? I'm happy to look after them should we travel so that the othersss eyes and hands are free in case we run into more problemsss."

As Yulin was taking over the interrogation, the goblins answering her questions without hesitation, Amalia noticed they were constantly glancing at her, like puppies looking for approval. She grew uncomfortable at the sight, but wisely let it pass, as they were getting somewhere with Graf and Skiril and she didn't want to make a mistake that would bring a fight anew. She felt somewhat responsible for the well being of the goblins, as she had initiated this relationship, and that was confirmed when Osmon magically talked to her. Having received such messages from her brother before, she knew what it was. While still surprising to receive, she stayed relaxed, smiling to the goblins as the interrogation proceeded.

Yulin is doing good, and I think that as long as I am near them, they will behave. Edgar flying ahead is a good idea. I sent Ophelia to do a wide circuit, haven't heard from her yet. Osmon, what should we do with the cart? Do you know how far we are from Phandelin? I do not want to abandon Gundren and Sildar to this fate, but we do have that respons...

The magic ended before she could complete her thought and she glanced at the mage, hoping he could extrapolate what she wanted to say.

The bard was still talking to the goblins and after a few more questions, she rose, apparently satisfied.

Yulin, you can go talk to the others, I will stay with them.

She looked around and noticed that Snoric's bag of pastries was still on the floor of the cart, left opened. Maybe she could literally sweeten the deal with the goblins? They had not been allowed near the cart, for obvious reasons, and she didn't want to leave them... but she had ways around that too. She called to the group, as not to freak them out with what she was about to do... she had learned the lesson with this bunch.

I will be using a spell, please do not panic.

Telling the goblins to stay where they are, she took a few steps closer to the cart, feeling it was just out of the range of her spell. Casting and singing her mystic words, she soon had a spectral, disembodied hand hovering near her head. She sent the hand to the bag, where she picked up two drying pastries. Smiling as the hand came back with it's bounty, she offered the sweets to the goblins.

Thank you for your help, Graf and Skiril.




06:58, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  Amalia wisdom
Casting mage hand
This message was last edited by the player at 12:46, Sun 11 July 2021.

Yulin nodded to Amalia as she left and walked back to the cart. She shook her head as the hatchling announced the use of a simple spell. She understood entirely the reason the young human did it, clearly not wanting to cause offense or concern with the more sensitive or irrational members of the group. Yulin sighed, this was going to be a very tiresome experience if the group expected every use of magic to be announced in advance in case it caused offense. Well, for her part she would take care in not offending further but wouldn't be announcing every act of magic.

She called out loud enough for the group to hear even spread out as they were. "We have enough to begin a search for Gundren. Please, join me to we can discusss."

She waited for anyone who moved to gather by her and started, "Gundren and his human were taken by the goblins. They are being held in a... den? No, cave. Skiril said they lived in a 'hidehome', a cave. This place is 'half a half-day's travel', maybe two to three hoursss then? They pointed toward the north however have agreed to guide usss to the place but will not enter or help usss fight." She looked back towards Amalia with the two goblins, "The cave is trapped, both on the path leading to the cave and inside the cave itself. There is more than ten other goblins back in the cave and they are lead by a large, hairy goblin."

She believed that was it and certainly sufficient to at least reach the cave. "Keep them bound, gag them, and have them lead us to the cave is my suggestion." She drew her lips together, "Amalia and I have agreed not to harm them and to let them leave when we arrive at the cave. They have told me they will return to the mountain tribesss to the north and not bother travellersss again." She had no idea how that piece of information would be taken by the individual group members but it was good to mention, if only to gauge their reactions.

Yana sighed.  There were apparently no such thing as a normal job anymore.
She nodded to the bard, not bothering to give her opinion on the trustworthiness of goblins.
"Will we be able to take the wagon with us, or should we stash it somewhere?  If we're quick,  the animals might be okay, but I'd rather not leave them for long. "

She looked around for a good hiding place for their wagon
OOC: 21:11, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Perception

Solgran accepted the role of chaperone, though admittedly he had no idea what that word was, nor what it meant. He assumed it had something to do with keeping an eye on the goblins, and so he did, until Amalia offered to take care of it herself.

When Yulin shared the results of their interrogation, Solgran added, "The large hairy goblin they speak of, it is what we call a bugbear. Strong, fierce, and generally obsessed with battle. I'm sure we can handle it, but it will be a fiercer foe than these."

Then came the question of the wagon from Yana. "I doubt it will fit through the path we must travel to the goblins' cave. Either we stash it off the road somewhere nearby, or we take it the rest of the way to Phandalin and then go after Gundren. If the information from the goblins is correct, we cannot afford even one person to drive the wagon the rest of the way while the rest go after Gundren." He asked the group, but no one in particular, "How much further is Phandalin from here? How much time to do we leave Gundren in the hands of the goblins if we all deliver it and then come back for him? They wanted him alive for something, or they would have just killed him and left his corpse along with the horses, but that doesn't mean he is being treated well."

I hate to use a hit die for just 4 HP when one is all I've got, but if we're going to face 10+ goblins and a bugbear, I guess I better be prepared.

21:12, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 9 using 1d12+2.  Hit Dice.

"I agree with Solgran, if Phandalin is close we may want to get the supplies there before we return for Gundren. Who knows, maybe there will be people there who can help."

I pause a few moment to let my comment register before continuing. "If we attempt a rescue we must be careful. This fight went well but still two of our party were badly injured and the fight could have easily gone the other way. There are more Goblins at this, 'hidehome,' and they are led by something more dangerous and that is not factoring in the traps. Even with all that, I agree with Solgran we can do this if we are careful. Perhaps we can draw all or some of them away from their cave. Miss Scalesong has great skill with illusion, maybe we can use that?"

Yana frowned in thought.
"Well, the town is still a day and a half away.  Perhaps if we pushed the animals,  we could make it faster,  though none of us are really experienced with this stuff."

Yulin actually blushed, ever so slightly, as Osmon suggested illusion. "Contrary to my willingnesss to use such magic my ability is quite limited. I will certainly be able to support you all if we continue the fight but my ability for any significant magic had been exhausted."  She tilted her head with a look of apology. She did like the idea, and it was an honest and effective use of such magic. It was just unfortunate she had expended her most powerful abilities as soon as combat started. She had much to learn and learning by way of error seemed to be how she was to be taught.

She nodded as the others contributed to the plan all good ideas, the wagon and many other problems were things she hadn't considered. She didn't really have a good idea as to what to do with the wagon. Unless... "I don't fancy traveling for a couple of daysss while Gundren is at the mercy of a... Bugbeer?" It was clearly not a creature she had heard of. "How about we unload the wagon, take what goodsss we can into the trees and hide them."

She looked up to the oxen with a nod, "Give those two a slap on the rump and send them on their way for a fortunate traveler to pick up." She shrugged, "It will be a problem for later, but possibly for a living, breathing Gundren and not usss."

Snoric was not in the least bit torn about what their priority should be.  Yes they had agreed to deliver the wagon but there were lives on the line.  He could and would hand back the gold if they did not complete their contract.  For now they should help the others.

"The oxen are slow.  Some of you seem quick and light on your feet, others have animals you command.  Could not a small, suitable skilled group move ahead and scout for this cave?  You could undoubtedly reach this cave in half the time the wagon would take, determine if we can handle this then report back.  That way if its too much for us to handle we can still turn away well before we see trouble."

Allura ambles up listening to them and squinting slightly, "Bug bear? That sounds disgusting some hybrid creature like an owlbear ?"

She then looked to her sister, "I will stay with you, though Gundren is our meal ticket, so I am pretty sure his rescue is the highest on our priority ?"

Yulin looked between those who offered the most recent suggestions, she agreed with Allura and figured the rest were too polite to mention it but mostly everyone was here for the gold she was sure. She knew she wouldn't have left the inn without the promise of riches. Killing goblins and cleaning blood off of your clothes, ugh,  she had to be paid for that. It looked as though everyone was in agreement that Gundren and his gold was the priority but the issue was what to do with the wagon.

"We take our chancesss then on a rescue?" She queried further, "We could just leave the cart, goodsss be damned. If they're here when we return then good fortune. We should only be gone half a day." She narrowed her eyes, "Or half a night maybe? We could set out when darknesss fallsss. Less chance of the wagon being found or the goods stolen then maybe?"

She looked back to the wagon bed, "Anyone even know what we're hauling? We could take a look as see if it's worth our while. Common goods and equipment can be purchased and brought in later if they are stolen." She shrugged, "Surely nobody could blame usss for a weeks delay over Gundren's life."

Yana sighed and nodded with a wry smile to Allura and Yulin.
"You're  right.  Gundren is our priority.  One of my many flaws is that I always have a difficult time relinquishing a duty I've promised to do, but these supplies are a minor consideration compared to someone's life,  particularly if he's our employer.    Okay, then, let's try to stash the supplies somewhere,  and perhaps even the oxen if possible,  and go rescue the dwarf.  Worse case, we walk to town and get another wagon to bring back, after we rescue Gundren"

She shrugged
"Gundren said tools and other mundane supplies,  things that were ordinary in Neverwinter,  but vital at our destination.   So I'd hate to lose them, but it's a small price to pay for the dwarfs life "

"Ask if they have pet's in their hideyhole cave, and find out what the traps are, I swear if we walk into a trap because they didn't tell us what to expect I will hunt them down and drag them to the nine personally."

As Amalia magically transorts two muffins over, the two goblins look both scared and awed at the girls powers. When she offers them the muffins, they hesitate until she takes a bite of each. They gingerly take them and nibble them as if they fear they'd be poisoned or turned into something.

their terror gave way to surprise as they looked at the muffins like gold, and began devouring them like ravenous wolves. they looked u at you. "You good and true...we help you purple girl. we lead you to hidecave." the other nods his head.

With seemingly the decision made to go after Gundren and Sildar, Solgran reports he found a small clearing off to the north side of the path that the cart and ox could remain hidden with some persuading of the ox to get there. Within an hour, the cart was maneuvered into the clearing, covered with a piece of canvas from the cart to protect from weather. The stubborn ox took some time, but when they found the lush grass, made themselves at home.

The goblins, loosly bound, stayed close to Amalia. Their guidance proved valuable, when ten minutes up the track they pointed out a snare trap, easily avoidable. Another ten minutes and they again pulled you up to point out a pit trap. Both crude but effective traps would not have killed anyone, but injured, could have slowed you down.

Over the course of four hours, the goblins pointed out several traps, then came to a small creek, where the two pulled up, looking nervous. The looked north. "Yousa here....not far now.  we take no further. We told as promised, you let us go?"

As the group prepared the wagon Yulin dragged her chest out of the back. Once the cart was covered with canvas she stepped behind for some privacy, announcing, "One moment please."

Yulin stepped out after a few minutes in a full bodysuit of form fitting studded leather. Green leather plates in the shape of scales covered her from her neck to her wrists and ankles, each leather scale edged with a painted gold color. The rear of the armor hung down to the ground, tapering down to give the impression of a reptiles tail. The armor was pristine, new and untouched by combat. She raised her arms in the air and twisted at the hip as she looked down around her body, she was once again barefoot. With the leather armor hugging her figure it was clear to see she had no mammalian breasts and was entirely flat chested. "I've never worn thisss before." Looking behind her she shook her butt and the leather tail swished back and forth. She raised an eyebrow and looked back up, giving a wide grin, "I quite like it, it is surprisingly comfortable. I must remember to reward young Master Bladesemmer with a more private viewing when I return to Waterdeep."

Her green and grey sashes were now around her shoulders under which rested her black snake, its body looped down either side of her neck in a curl and its head lay on a shoulder. Currently it looked to be comfortably sleeping in amongst the layers of fabric.

A dark leather belt hung around her waist at an angle over one hip. Sheathed on the belt was a rapier and dagger, both as new as her armor, her lyre was on the opposite hip. She poked at the hilts of the weapons with a grimace, "Ugh. At least they look pretty." Picking up a backpack by her feet she threw her arms out to her sides, "Adventure callsss!"

As the day progressed Yulin found she was proud of her little goblin friends, they had done good work. The traps were avoided easily and the pair seemed to be the most professional and polite guides one could hope for. So when it came for the decision on whether to keep their word of betray her green little fellows she remained silent and looked to Amalia. She had spoken to them first, gained their trust, Yulin felt it was up to the hatchling to decide. Barring any unexpected or violent disagreements with any other member of the group.

While the discussion occurred around the cart on what to do next, Amalia was trying, and apparently succeeding, in gaining even more of the goblin's trust. They took Snoric's pastries and devoured them, after she showed them they were not poisonous by taking a small bite from each.

That was almost a mistake, as her emptied stomach heaved with the food and she had to fight to keep everything down. Fortunately, Ophelia chose a good moment to come back and distracted the cleric from her gastric issues, reporting no other goblins in the vicinity, and having seen the path they were told about. She played with the owl's feathers, while it was playfully pulling her purple hairs, when a thought occurred to her.

This is Ophelia, my pet. Do you have pets at the hidehouse? Animals you keep? I like animals.

Ophelia hooted, telepathically reminding Amalia that she was not a real owl and she shushed her by the same way, willing her to play the game. Another hoot and she took flight, soon coming back with a mouse in her claws, that she proceeded to eat, perched on Amalia's shoulder. The woman knew this was her familiar petty vengeance, as the gore slipped on her armor. Still playing the game, she petted the owl, smiling at her and the goblins.

Pets are fun.

Soon after, her armor magically cleaned of the gore, the cart fully removed from the road and camouflaged, and Yulin sporting a pristine, scaled patterned studded leather armor, the little group was on it's way to the rescue. The goblins were true to their word and helped the troupe avoid nasty traps and then stopped, saying they would not go further. Amalia, having chatted quietly with them most of the way, asked them.

One last question, then I will let you go. You said there was traps inside the hidehouse, what traps are there? You see, I don't want my pet hurt by them, if you tell me about the crafty goblin traps, Ophelia won't get hurt.

She listened to the answer and asked Snoric if he still had some of his pastries, to give some to their guides as she was releasing them from their bonds. Mentally, she asked her familiar to follow them, without being spotted, for at least a mile, to make sure they wouldn't circle back and warn the den...

She took the rope fragments when the goblins were out of sight and earshot and magically repaired it, before giving it back to Osmon.

That might be more useful at full length.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:39, Mon 12 July 2021.

Solgran waited for the goblins to answer the new questions before making any further suggestions. Knowing where the traps were, and how many, would certainly prove beneficial. That alone was enough to reward the goblins with their freedom. If they provided even more information that would keep Solgran and his companions out of harm's way, he would even pray for their safe return to their mountain home when next he found himself near a temple. Their short stature and broken common made them seem more childlike than they probably were, which made him think of his own childhood and a bit about his mother.

~Nope. Nope. Not the time for such thoughts. There are goblins to kill and a bugbear to defeat.~ By way of distraction, he took a moment to speak to some of the others that were hanging back a bit while the goblins were being questioned, "We will almost certainly have need of a light source once we go in, if anyone can spare a hand for a torch or something similar."

While the goblins were still debating internally how far their newfound loyalty to the cleric would go, the big warrior made a comment about light in the hideout. Turning to him, Amalia fingered her holy symbol on her chest and smiled.

Selune will provide all the light we need, Solgran. Have faith.

Returning her attention to her goblinoid charges, she waited patiently for them to make up their mind.

As the goblins listened to Amalia, they talked as they walked in goblin, chattering away, 7 til they came to the river, clearly more fearful. The question in traps and animals clearly scared them this close, but amalia’s connection proved the winner. “One trap inside we know. Water held back. Goblin in guard pull lever and water flow out.”

At the mention if let’s, the goblins looked fearful. “We no pets, but Klang does….wolves. Hungry, scary.”

With the final questions, they held out there hands. “We go….please. We do what you ask.” Amalia released them and they looked at each other, then flew west. With a nod, the clerics familiar followed.

Yana nodded to the priestess
"I could have a torch handy, but I'd prefer to keep a crossbow handy "

Yulin looked to Amalia with a very slight smile as she mentioned her goddess would light the way. In her experience relationships with the divine were very one sided and while she had seen the clerics abilities in combat she had her doubts that this Selune would be willing to bless other members of the party, especially herself. Still, Yulin was unsure she would even accept the blessing. She had her own god to follow and Sseth was a vengeful and merciless deity who was likely already pretty upset with her. No need to incur his wrath by way of jealousy or unfaithfulness. Better to go about her life without gaining the attentions of the pantheon.

"Failing the blessings of the hatchlings goddess..." She waggled her hip, a lamp hanging from a corner of her backpack rattling. "It'sss not much but I have light and will have handsss free should we run into trouble. Though I do not need light to see, it is more comfortable than darknessss."

She smiled widely to Amalia then as the young human released the two goblins. They were deserving of their freedom, the poor bullied creatures could now go back to their home and speak of the generosity of humans and their ilk. Perhaps after that it would be a little less likely they would attack such travelers on the road. The brutal effectiveness of her companions as well as their compassion pleased her greatly. Gundren had certainly found a most impressive collection of creatures to accompany her.

Solgran watched the goblins walk away, but called to them after a few steps, "Before you go, goblins. I forgot your names, I am sorry. You were honest and helpful. Maybe even brave. Thank you for your help. I hope you reach your mountains safely."

Solgran nodded to the goblins and then turned back toward the cave entrance. ~Now, like a total ass, I will go and kill all of your brethren in this cave.~

Snoric quietly prepared his weapons and equipment.  At present he didn't see anything to add as they knew little except that there was a cave with a trap at the front.  Either their scouts would go ahead or they'd charge in weapons waving.  He didn't know what was better.  He had never been in situationss like this before, only read them before in books.

When he heard Solgran's 'light issue' the gnome rummaged through has pouch and pulled out a small leather necklace with an amulet in the shape of a small circular disc.  Light shone brightly from the disc.

The gnome held it out to the human.  "Useful when I'm reading at night or trying to bake in a dark kitchen.  Darksight doesn't always help you pick the right ingredients.  Happy for you to use it if you need."


The amulet gives off bright light in a 5ft cone before you and dim light another 5ft.  Only catch is it shines continually.  Though stealth is not usually high on a barbarian's list ;)

Amalia waited for the return of Ophelia and smiled at the group.

Graf and Snirik are no longer in the area and did not warn anyone of our presence. They respected their word. We now know there are wolves in the den, and a water trap. Osmon, did Edgar tell you anything about what's ahead?

She waited for the answer and then asked to Allura if she could see in the dark. With a sharp nod, the tiefling confirmed that she could, reassuring the cleric that she could keep her promise.

So we are four humans, three of which need light. I already told you that I do see in the dark, I actually prefer it to the light of day. Selune allows me to share how I see for a certain time, and I will use it on Solgran, Osmon and Yana. If we need more light, to read for example, Snoric's medallion should be useful. The light of a torch is visible for much further away than it provides light for its bearer. I would use it only as a last resort.

Looking up at the darkening sky, the battle having took place a little after midday, she looked at her companions.

A more immediate concern is how tired are we? The battle and all the walking today makes it a long day. I feel fine, night actually energizes me, but do we want to walk into a goblin lair in this state? Maybe we should back off, keep a discrete watch on the place, and come back when our wounded have rested a few hours? The goblins said they had specific orders to keep our employers alive, it shouldn't have changed.

This message was last edited by the player at 12:54, Tue 13 July 2021.

Yana pondered the cleric's words
"As long as you spell toes didn't use up all of your mojo, we should be good to go.  The day is only half over,  so we should be able to make it to this den of inequity before night fall. "

Allura carves up a few chunks of horse for the wolves that the group now knew of. She then pursued a quiet course with the others towards the Goblin's lair to see if it was too late or not to rescue Gundren.

After seeing the primitive traps on the way the water trap sounded more advanced probably a series of dams. Her eyes and mind alert for the dangers she knew would be there as they pushed ahead.

Hearing a soft, familiar cry I raise my left arm and a moment later Edgar is perched there with a soft thump, ruffling his feathers and tucking his wings in close. He meets my eyes and I glimpse brief images, his memories, of the path ahead. It is not as clear as when he shares his sight with me directly but it does give me an idea of what lays ahead.

"There is a cave in a cliff face with water running out of it, approximately two miles ahead. I am guessing that is their, 'hidehome.' Edgar did not get close enough to see what was inside nor did he see any Goblins or Wolves." I pause a moment to review what the others said and a couple of ideas spring to mind but none are a clear winner. "I think we need to get a closer look at this cave before we can decide the best way forward."

Yulin looked at Snoric's light-disc with mild curiosity although her passing interest in the item was brief as Amalia spoke of waiting, "A few hoursss, night or now. It makesss no difference to me." She stretched her arms in the air, clasping her hands over her head. With the green armor she looked very serpentine. "Contrary to my upbringing I am not one to be skulking around in tunnels. I'm sure I could manage but I doubt I am the best choice if we wanted to scout the 'hidehome'."

She looked between Amalia and Osmon, "Your owlsss have been out scouting most of the time we have been traveling. Would they be able to fly through cavesss? Give usss an idea of what to expect?" She was well aware they were typically nocturnal but had no idea about how comfortable the creatures would be flying through caves.

Regardless of the answer Yulin continued, "Unlesss anyone has a pressing need to rest for the night I suggest we should move forward. Perhapsss we will be lucky and catch a few more goblins if they leave the cave." She had no idea who would qualify for her next suggestion as she looked between the group, "Keen eyesss at the front, we have lost our little guidesss and there will be traps." It was clear she was not offering herself.

In reply to Yulin Scalesong (msg # 134):

"I agree.  If we wanted to rest for the night we should have done it before we travelled several hours closer to the cave.  I'd agree if we're going in, we go as soon as we have scouted and have a plan."

Yana nodded in agreement
"Yes, indeed.   Let's make our way inside.  I can go first,  as i have some experience with traps"

With the instructions from the goblins in mind, the group followed the creek. True to their word, you come across a large cave in a hillside five miles from the scene of the ambush. A shallow stream flows out of the cave mouth, which is screened by dense briar thickets. A narrow dry path leads into the cave on the right-hand side of the stream.

There is no signs of guards outside of the cave, or movement in the opening



<OOC: from here I will need marching order, the plan of attack and any rolls that you need (perception, stealth, etc) for both you and familiars (if applicable)

Due to the persuasiveness and RP of all, you all gain 100xp - enough for level 2 I believe. Level up your characters. Any used spell slots remain used until rest, but new ones come into effect (though no new spells yet). Hp you can either roll (reroll 1s) OR take the average (half HD +1)

Congrats and welcome to level 2>

18:40, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 14 using 1d20.  Perception Roll.

18:45, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 8 using 1d4+4.  Fiendish Vigor.



Allura takes her place after a brief discussion of the order they will take agreeing as it places her close to her sister. She wears her shield on her arm for protection and though she loosens her sword in it's sheath she does not draw it yet. Keeping her hand free to unleash her eldritch energies on any enemies they may face.

She does take a moment to say, [Language unknown: "Lomeng ort esun."] and her form flickers with energy becoming even more reinforced with the vigor and power of her fiendish form.

Yana crept forward, crossbow at the ready.  She was a bit rusty at it, but she tried to stay alert.

OOC: 20:09, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Perception .
20:08, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Stealth

20:13, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 8 using 2d20+2, dropping the highest dice only.  Stealth.

Solgran moved toward the cave entrance, his armor clicking and scraping all the while despite his attempts and keeping it quiet. ~Hopefully the sound of that running water covers this noise, or I'm about to taste arrows.~ He was a big man who carried a big sword, being noticed was his lot in life whether he liked it or not. He accepted that fact, but with the lives of others on the line as well, he was more cautious than he otherwise would have been if he had come alone.

20:13, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 9 using 1d20+3.  Perception. Looking into a cave wasn't easy, especially not with the sun beaming down into his eyes while he tried. No sounds were coming through, so he pushed on toward the cave entrance, ready to see what awaited them inside.

I guess we are going in the front door. A quick mental nudge gets Edgar's attention and when we looks at me I point to the cave, flutter my fingers above me head and then point my index and middle finger at me eyes and then scan them back and forth. With a rustle of feathers he takes off, circles for altitude, and approaches the cave from above the entrance . Reaching the entrance just behind Solgran, he drops the minimum altitude and flutters over to the darkest shadows he can find in search of a perch he can observe from and scans the area.

Summary
Edgar
Move: Enter the cave with as much height as he can manage and find a place he can hide and observe the room.
Action: Hide for 10.
Perception: 23

Yulin took her place in the line, very happy with her position and where she ended up. She was no combatant and having most of the group in front of her and the armored cleric behind made her feel quite comfortable in the midst of the party. She did not draw her weapons and had even made a point to not touch them since she strapped them to her hip, her lyre was in her hands but understanding the preference for silence she was not strumming. She did however, softly hum a tune, ever so quietly so that only those immediately around her could hear.

She did speak up as they began to head towards the cave. There was something mentioned earlier and it may be of benefit to the group, it may also put them all more at ease with her magic. "Osmon mentioned illusion earlier. I believe I could manage something." She looked down the line and deeper into the cave, "Perhaps an armed human traveling ten foot ahead of us? I could maintain it for ten minutes, so if we are quick it may serve us well as a distraction."

As she waited for confirmation before exhausting herself on another spell she peered around the entrance and into the cave. Moving forward with the group she was as silent as as snake.

13:07, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 23 using 1d20+4.  Stealth.
13:07, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 15 using 1d20+1.  Perception.

The sound of the waterfall was the first thing that signaled that the party was approaching the goblin hidehome. Amalia offered to protect the rear of the line, and stayed alert, if not particularly discreet with her heavy armor. As the group was walking, she touched Yulin on the arm, whispering.

May Selune provide you with vigilance before this inevitable fight.

Shield on her arm, her other hand near her holy symbol, she tried to get a crash understanding of the abilities she knew she now wielded, the presence of Selune strong in her head and heart.

I guess I'll figure it out in battle... Dad always said that life and death struggles are the best teachers, if you can survive them.

Cautious, she still sent the newly returned Ophelia ahead of the path, with instructions to report any guards.

Give Vigilant Blessing to Yulin (advantage on next Initiative roll)
Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 9 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 4.  Amalia perception.
Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 30 using 2d20 with rolls of 17,13. Amalia Stealth disadvantage
Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 22 using 2d20+3 with rolls of 5,14.  Ophelia perception check (advantage).
Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 22 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 19.  Ophelia Stealth

Allura nodded briefly at Yulin's words.

"I would still prefer to draw them out then to go in. Illusions could go a long way to do that. They need to eat, so they need to come out unless they have mushroom farms or the like in this place." Shrugging slightly, "But going right in to the jaws of death and tearing it's tongue out, has a certain appeal to it."

Snoric examined the cave entrance from their vantage point.  "I don't like going in there without more information.  Hopefully we can learn something from the animal scouts."

The gnome watched the cave with a mix of fear and excitement.  He was curious about what might lay ahead.  "What if I tried magically disguising myself as one of the goblins we captured and scouting ahead?  I might be able to look around a bit, maybe even lure some of them out.  Though I don't speak goblin so that might be hard, no too bad, nobody taught that at the Keep.  Maybe take someone who does speak the language, pretend they're a prisoner?"   As Snoric gets more excited, the tempo of his speech increases.

Yana smiled gently at the gnome
"To be honest,  i don't think that would work.  All goblins look alike to most of us,  but not to them, so they'd probably recognize that you're not one of their crew."

She lookes at the others
"I know it's dangerous,  but the best and most efficient way to proceed is probably to just enter carefully and look around.  "

As solgren slowly moves forward, the two owls take flight, ozmon’s into the mouth of the cave, and amalia’s around. The mental warning came almost as two arrows flew from the trees to the right aiming at Solgren and the others spoke. Luckily for the barbarian, one just missed, and the other missed by a lot.


<OOC: At this point I’ll ask for iniative.

You can’t see any enemies, but know the two arrows came from the right hand side. Solgren, as you are near the cave entrance you see to the right a clearing of the trees about 40 feet away, but see no enemies.

The trees offer half cover for you, as well as whoever is through there.>

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:17, Fri 16 July 2021.

20:11, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 11 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

20:20, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 6 using 1d20.  Perception.



"I guess moot point someone just begged for death !"
Sticks with Solgran but will use the cover of the trees and try and find opponents.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:21, Fri 16 July 2021.

Yana, to her chagrin,  is taken by surprise by the arrows, and is caught off guard

OOC: 21:13, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 6 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
21:12, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 20 using 1d20+3.  Initiative

Snoric, seeing the team was moving forward and his scouting plan was too late, drew his pistol and took aim towards the perceived source of the arrows.  He moved up towards the cave as he looked for a shot.

OOC: Snoric will move up to his full movement, trying to close the range with the archers.  He will reserve his attack for any archer he spots.

Initiative 11
Perception 13
This message was last edited by the player at 03:02, Fri 16 July 2021.

21:18, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  Perception.
21:18, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 13 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

Solgran dropped into a crouching guard stance out of habit as the arrows flew toward him. "Goblins in the eastern clearing." He looked around for signs of where they were hiding, but he had no intention of standing here to play 'target'. He would search for but a moment before going to meet them.

Yulin gave a small frown to Amalia as the hatchling's blessing did... something. She felt alert, awake, like she had just chewed on a sprig of silkroot. The awareness was unnerving, more so the way it was bestowed. A blessing by Selune? Yulin felt a slight panic rising in her and her heart beat faster. Attentions of the gods, not something she ever really appreciated.

Still, it allowed her to react quickly as the arrows flew from the trees. Her eyes followed the arc, hoping to find the source of the attack.

12:23, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Perception.
12:17, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 22 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  Initiative.

Seeing the arrows coming from the trees to the left I run towards the trees along the cliff face while casting the illusion of a dense shrub amongst the underbrush. While I am running I blow a sharp whistle to recall Edgar in case he is needed.

Summary
Osmon
Initiative: 25
Perception: 7
Move: Move up to 30 ft to get to the trees at the North end of the map, angling away from the cave entrance (or whichever thicket the arrows did not come from. If I cannot reach the trees at the end of the move I will dive prone.
Action: Cast Minor Illusion of a dense shrub or equivalent of the local flora that I can use to block line of sight to my character from the trees once I reach the treeline.
Bonus Action: NSTRATT
Reaction: If I am hit with an attack roll I will cast Shield

Edgar
Initiative: 16
Perception: 22
Move: Fly up to 60 ft back into the trees south of the cave entrance
Action: Carefully look around for enemies, relaying what he sees to Osmon.

The discussion about how to enter the lair ended when arrows were fired from the trees, fortunately missing Solgran. Almost immediately, she saw, through Ophelia's eyes, that these were not the only threat. She needed to tell her companions!

There's a clearing passed the river, Ophelia sees three goblins there!

Hand on her holy symbol, she looked for a target for her spells, as she mentally instructed Ophelia to keep watch over the goblins she was seeing and make sure there was no others.


Action : Look for a target, if possible cast Toll the dead, Wis DC 14, range 60, 7 damage if already wounded, 6 damage otherwise

22:06, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 7,6 using 1d12,1d8.  Toll the dead damage.
Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 20 using 1d20+5.  Amalia perception
Amalia Firnam rolled 14 using 1d20.  Amalia initiative
Amalia Firnam rolled 17 using 2d20+3, dropping the lowest dice only.  Ophelia perception check (advantage)
Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  Ophelia initiative
This message was last edited by the player at 03:07, Fri 16 July 2021.

Iniative Order

Osmon (25)
Yulin (22)
Yana (20)
Edgar (16)
Amalia (14)
Ophelia (14)
Snoric (13)
Solgran (13)
Alura (11)

Goblins (8)

<SURPRISE ROUND >

Osmon, feeling the effects of his magical research in full force enabled him to react that little bit quicker, moving north to the edge of the stream, casting a minor illusion of a shrub to crouch behind. As he did he looked around for enemies in the trees but saw none.

Yulin, standing where she was, looking in the trees, her serpentile eyes spying movement of two figures.  Yana, likewise surprised, looked around and saw the same two as the bard.

A flutter of wings overhead had the owls return and hide in the foalage of the trees, the two seeing the full extent of the enemies

Amalia, seeing one of the archers, sent her spell towards it. The goblin shrieked, dropping the bow and arrow, holding it's ears.

The gnome, spotting two of them, moved for the edge of the water, getting closer to them with every step. lining up with his crossbow, Snoric fired, missing one barely

The barbarian Solgran knew where his foes were and made for the clearing, weapon in hand, coming around the edge of the treeline, saw three goblins, two paling at the sight of him.

Alura, following the barbarians lead, waded the water and saw two goblins

the enemy had little time to prepare, one still in pain, and one other missing the mark, while the other's fired at Osmon (Who's magical shield deflected it)  and amalia (Deflecting it with her shield)





<OOC: Surprise round is up. People post for round one now>

Yana: 9/9
Alura: 15/15
Osmon: 14/14
Snoric: 17/17
Solgran: 23/23
Amalia: 18/18
Yulin: 15/15

Goblins: ?/?

Allura seeing two goblins brought a bit of a dark smile to her lips.
[Language unknown: "Aren ionme E os thoproone maalpr ted. E pre ilcon ndewe llles n es an thuncepro isac ecdi'utri ourad hastedoun me fiall m."] She said as she cast a hex upon her target.

[Language unknown: "Hatwer-thoven a not adhiouto !"] she called out as energy crackled at her command this time somehow brighter and more forceful then it had been earlier in the day as she launched an eldritch blast


Bonus Action: Hexing her target as per the Hex spell.
06:18, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  Eldritch Blast.

06:29, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 8,2 using 1d8+3,1d6.  Eldritch Blast + Agonizing Blast+Hex.

8 Force Damage and 2 Necrotic Damage

The battle was now on, and the cleric managed to blast one of the goblins, that dropped his bow, holding his head. Receiving a report from Ophelia, she said to everyone.

There are four goblins in those trees!

An arrow finished its course on her shield, with a jarring "thump", and she looked at it briefly, frowning.

Thanks for teaching me how to use this, Dad.

Through Ophelia, she saw that the big man was nearing a goblin, and she sent her familiar to do a flyby in that goblin's face, hoping to distract him enough to help Solgran.

The archer she had hit was clutching his head but could still be an issue, so she blasted him again to eliminate him from the fight.


Action Ophelia

Do the help action on the goblin nearest Solgran, granting advantage to the next attack on it.
Fly back to the safety of the tree tops.

Action Amalia

Movement : look for some cover while keeping in range of her spell to attack the goblins.
Action : try to kill off the goblin she attacked earlier, if it's already dead at her turn, target another one, Toll the dead, DC14 Wis save, range 60, 2 damage on an already damaged goblin, 3 on a undamaged goblin.
Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 2,3 using 1d12,1d8.  Toll the dead damage.

Yana fired her shortbow at a goblin archer, then moved to find cover

OOC:
16:49, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 16 using 1d20+5.  Hide.
16:48, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 6 using 1d6+3.  Damage .
16:48, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 20 using 1d20+5.  Bow

Action:  fire bow, then Hide attempt

This message was last edited by the player at 21:52, Fri 16 July 2021.

"Aaah!" Clapping my hands, a bubble of slow time surrounds me, causing the air to fracture with innumerable images as if glimpsed in a broken mirror, causing the arrow rushing towards me to hang motionless in midair, giving me time to roll frantically to the side, before tearing free and thudding into the ground where I was a moment before. Pushing up from the ground, I catch a glimpse of a Goblin stumbling around under the trees, clutching its head in pain, and I send a small tongue of flame streaking from my finger in their direction. Turning away before it reaches its target, I resume running towards the trees and the slim shelter it offers.

Summary
Osmon
Move: Stand up from prone.
Action: Cast Firebolt, target the wounded Goblin (23 to hit for 6 fire damage)
Move: 15 feet towards the treeline at the top of the map. If I reach it I will try to take as much cover as I can (1/2 or 3/4 if available) and hide behind my illusion from last turn (block line of sight to me giving them disadvantage). If not I will dive prone again (attacks against me from further than 5 ft away have disadvantage).
Bonus Action: NSTRATT
Reaction: Cast Shield if hit with an attack.

Edgar
Move: NSTRATT
Action: Take the Search action looking for any stragglers or hidden enemies (21 Perception).
Bonus Action: NSTRATT

Yulin frowned as she spotted more goblins, "Well nice of them to spread out for usss."

Looking towards the nearest goblin she wrinkles her nose and spits a curse, "The river isss right there! I'll give you a bar of soap and we'll wait, but gods please clean yourself once before you die."

Not waiting to see if her insult sticks Yulin moves to find cover from another potential wave of arrows.

Turn 1
Cast Vicious Mockery (WIS DC13 3dam, disadv. on next attack) on;
1. nearest unhurt goblin
Move into bushes/trees to find cover

While combat had commenced, Snoric left Ultio in his holster for now.  Even though he'd much rather use the weapon he worried about drawing more attention from the cave by the noise of the weapon.  Instead he used his crossbow to target goblins in the treeline.  Taking aim, he let loose a bolt and watched with satisfaction as it slammed into a goblin's chest.  Not as spectacular as Ultio's effect but it was quieter and the gnome felt a little discretion might be a good idea right now.


Actions (Can be applied to multiple rounds)
Move - Will position to get best angle on goblins (keep in range, remove cover)
Attack - Fires crossbow at most wounded enemy (else nearest)
Bonus - No bonuses actions for me :(

Round 1 - Attack 22 Damage 8 (most wounded goblin else nearest)


Snoric will continue this unless something significant happens:
* It is clear enemies in cave are alerted (he'll switch to Ultio)
* He is forced into melee
* Someone is badly hurt
* Something unforseen
This message was last edited by the player at 00:49, Sat 17 July 2021.

Solgran raised the greatsword as he moved into position to strike. Goblins were nimble little creatures, but prone to fear and used to being bullied. Solgran had faced them before, and not just the ones from earlier today. Look imposing enough, show a dangerous looking weapon, and sometimes they forgot to move their feet and simply cowered in place instead. With plenty more goblins side the cave, it was important to finish these ones off before an alarm could be raised, so Solgran used whatever tactics he could to end the fight sooner rather than later.

He swung the sword at his target, ready to close on the next one as well, if the opportunity presented itself.

Move: to a goblin that's still alive, get next to a friend if I can
Action: Attack with Greatsword
Result: Hit AC 15 (23 if I have Advantage) for 7 Slashing damage
IF: if I kill the goblin, use more movement to get next to another, set up for Sentinel reactions if possible

19:30, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  Advantage.
19:28, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 15,7 using d20+5,2d6+3.  Attack: Greatsword.

I saw Amalia's post about advantage, so I rolled it, but I didn't pay attention to initiative order.

If there's a reaction: 19:43, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 13,8 using d20+5,2d6+3.  Sentinel.

This message was deleted by the player at 14:34, Sun 18 July 2021.

Osmon (25)
Yulin (22)
Yana (20)
Edgar (16)
Amalia (14)
Ophelia (14)
Snoric (13)
Solgran (13)
Alura (11)

Goblins (8)

<ROUND 1>

Osmon, seeing the unarmed goblin that Amalia's spell had hit, wasted no time, sending a mote of fire towards it, hitting it squarly in the chest.  It's rags of armor coaught fire and the near death beast struggled for moments before dropping to the ground dead.

Yulin looked at the closest goblin, insulting it with the threat of soap and water, and the the goblin trembled in true fear at the thought, a look of horror on it's face.

Yana loaded her crossbow and fired, hitting the goblin panicking over the soap and water, never seeing the bolt as it impaled it through it's eye, snapping it's head pack and dropping it dead.

Amalia watched as her owl circled and she hooted nearest the barbarian. The woman again summoned her magic, the tone of a bell a distant sound causing it to shake it's head as it looked at you.

Snoric, having reloaded his crossbow, took a more careful aim at the one goblin everyone was ignoring, and with a steady hand and eye, let fly, the bolt skewering the goblins heart and killing it instantly.

The last goblin was at the mercy of the tiefling and barbarian, looking less sure of himself. With a swing of the greatsword of the warrior, and Allura's blast of magical energy, the final goblin was reduced to a pile of blood and goop, the two smiling at each other at the effectiveness.



<OOC: Combat is over....you made short work of them, and no one injured.>

Yana: 9/9
Alura: 15/15
Osmon: 14/14
Snoric: 17/17
Solgran: 23/23
Amalia: 18/18
Yulin: 15/15

Goblins: (4) VERY MUCH DEAD!!!

This message was last edited by the GM at 11:44, Mon 19 July 2021.

Solgran set to cleaning his blade while moving out of line of sight from the cave entrance, and he looked around for signs of more of the little buggers. "Did the birds miss those four in their scouting? Or was my mind elsewhere when we received the report and I simply missed it?"

He had assumed that having birds to scout ahead for them would be a superb benefit, but if they were just as easily fooled from above, then he was second guessing whether or not he should rely on what they had to say. A person could miss seeing things just as easily, but at least he could rely on them to consider and question the things that they saw. He knew there was some kind of magical bond between a magic wielder and their familiars, but animals were animals and he wasn't sure just how much they should rely on them.

Birds or no birds, the group had performed well together and it looked like the goblins hadn't landed even a single hit. That fact put him at ease and boosted his confidence in the group as a whole. The previous ambush had gone a little sideways, but this was much better. "Well done. Quick and easy."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:26, Tue 20 July 2021.

Keeps concentrating and focused.

"Well, they did have an outer guard after all, well hidden though less skilled then their raiding party. My sword is jealous of your cross bow bolt sister, it tasted blood this day."

Snoric wasted no time.  Rushing to the very treeline where the goblins had been hiding, he took up a defensive position with cover and kept his crossbow trained on the cave entrance.  They hadn't been especially noisy but he wanted to be ready in case their battle had attracted attention.  If things stayed quiet they might have time to plan but for now he wanted to be prepared in case there was a 'second wave'.


OOC: Taking a sniping position in the north end of the trees on the east side of the river (so between where Allura and Solgran's icons are on the map).

Perception: 10
This message was last edited by the player at 02:36, Tue 20 July 2021.

As the last Goblin fell, I push my thoughts to Edgar, sending him a picture of the cave entrance and a sense of urgency. As the Owl takes off to inspect the cave I sit down cross legged and focus on the view from Edgar's eyes.

Summary
Osmon
Move: Sit down, (prone) within my Minor Illusion.
Action: Use Edgar's senses

Edgar
Move into the cave, trying to be stealthy, will proceed through up to two rooms or to 100' from Osmon whichever comes first.
Perception: 14 Focus will be looking for guards or traps, especially signs of the water trap we were told about.
Stealth: 23

Yulin sighed as the creatures were quickly felled. "Well that makes six." She said to nobody in particular.

Still in the bushes she noted what Osman was doing and walked over beside him. A similar illusion of dense shrubbery appeared a few feet away from him and Yulin copied the mage by sitting inside it. Clever man, she decided and made a mental note to watch the humans use of magic, she had already learned one trick from him and if she paid attention Yulin was confident she could pick up a few more.  There was much to be said from having others accompany her, the Bardic College had bards to learn from but lacked the variety present in her current group. She also had her eye on the hatchling and her healing magic, she felt she would be able to learn a trick or two from the cleric and if time permitted she would sit down and discuss the girls divine powers.

She watched the cave entrance, not expecting any more trouble but being prepared for it regardless. She stummed a soft melody on her lyre, barely able to be heard, as she sung a quiet tune.

Casting Minor Illusion.
12:31, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 13 using 1d20+1.  Perception.

And just like that, the battle was over, almost before it started. Hearing Solgran's comment about not knowing the number of goblins present, she scoffed, and look at the big man. If only she had her mother's powers to amplify her voice, she would show him! Taking a deep breath, she instead went to him and said in a normal voice.

I did call there were four goblins in the trees, Ophelia saw them. Maybe next time you'll be able to hear me?

Giving the big man a small ironic smile, she quickly went to the goblins to see if there was anything interesting to pick up, another lesson from her father. She didn't think they were heard inside the cavern, the scuffle had been so brief, and Snoric was in position to warn them, if there was anything coming their way.

Action, Check the goblins for interesting loot

Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  Amalia perception.

Yana gave her sister a wry smile
"Don't worry,  Sister.  Goblins breeed like rabbits,  so i suspect that there are plenty to satisfy your bloodlust."
Keeping her bow ready, Yana joined in the search of their fallen foes

"I suppose." She looked around and made sure to keep clear of the water after hearing about that water trap.

She folded her arms and waited for the others to carry out their salvage operations or whatever else they were planning. In her mind it was a good start having slain these ones before even entering the cave system.

As the group settles, searching the goblins and finding leather armor, showtbows, arrows and daggers on each, Snoric and Osmon set to scoping out the cave, Snoric taking watch at the entrance while Osmon sends his familiar in.

All is quiet, and the owl flies in a little way when the sounds of wild animals could be heard echoing from the caves.

Amalia looked at the meager loot and decided to take a dagger... it might come in handy later. Picking a crude quiver of arrows, she approached Yana and offered it to the locksmith.

Here, since you are the one among us using a bow, you might need these.

Her quick inspection revealing nothing else on the corpses, she slowly got closer to the mouth of the cave, shield in hand, and tried to see inside, with her superior night vision.

Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 9 using 1d20+5.  Amalia perception.

Solgran seemed bothered by the fact that he had missed hearing about the goblins. He made a mental commitment to pay better attention in the future. He couldn't protect people if he was the one putting them in danger in the first place. He began to run through mental exercises that he had done off and on since he was a little kid, to help him notice and retain things that the others had said. He didn't know if it was a matter of forgetting, one of not hearing, or one of distraction. What he did know was that he'd made a mistake, and not one he cared to repeat.

He kept his eyes and ears occupied with distractions while he kept his mind focused on the exercise.
00:10, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 13 using 1d20+3.  Survival.
00:10, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

Yana nodded her thanks to the cleric, and got ready to move.
She looked at the barbarian
"Are we ready to move on?"

Snoric waited patiently in the trees, his crossbow loaded and ready.  Osmon's bird hadn't returned yet and apart from some growls there had been no indication of activity from the cave.

Hearing to conversation between Yana and Solgran he pointed at the cave.  "The bird is scouting ahead.  If that doesn't work I can still go in disguised as one of them." He gestures to the dead goblins.  "If I keep my distance it should be enough to get a looksie."

With the group scattered around the clearing verbally telling everyone what Edgar had found had to high a risk of being overheard by any sharp-eared Goblin within the cave. Given this group's sensitivity to magic this may not go over well but that is the more acceptable risk.

<"Please pass this on to the others near you. There is a cave immediately to the right of the entrance where some animal noises are coming from. Possibly the wolves we were warned of. Further along there is a Y branch with sloping passage to the left on the opposite side of the river and the entrance path going off to the right. No sign of more guards or the water trap yet. Edgar will investigate the first cave.">

Summary
Osmon
<Indicates use of the Message cantrip>
Action: Cast message to one member of each cluster of party members (all within 15 ft). If necessary refresh Minor Illusion, and watch Edgar's feed
Verbally pass on info to Yulin

Edgar
Move: Enter cave to the right staying high
Perception: 12
Stealth: 8
This message was last edited by the player at 21:37, Wed 21 July 2021.

Yulin waited patiently in the illusion bush she had made, quite pleased with herself in exploring greater uses for her magic. She watched the others as they walked between the corpses and looted them, she had no interest in smelly goblin leathers or old, broken weapons so remained where she was. She was a little concerned as the hatchling started to walk towards the cave, peering inside the dark interior, but with most of the group nearby and the scouting owl having already flown in her concern quickly passed.

Then Osmon spoke to her, she reached out towards the mans illusion bush so it would fade for her and she could see him. Apparently he had returned to scouting after relaying the message, returning to the same dead stare she had now become familiar with from both the hatchling and him. Yulin thought about rising from where she was to go and tell the others but as they started to gather and talk between themselves it appeared they had received the message as well. She elected to remain, deciding it best not to leave the mage alone in the bushes by himself.

She busied herself by meticulously crafting her illusion bush into a perfect sphere of dense leaves. She added what natural color she could see in the immediate area as flowers, buds and seedpods sprouted around her bush. Not overly concerned anymore with using the illusion to conceal herself she instead decided to make it look beautiful.

Yana proceeded into the cave, trying to stay alert, despite her eyes not adjusting well to the change in lighting

OOC:  05:45, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
05:45, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 9 using 1d20+1.  Perception

As Yana was moving in, Amalia approached Solgran, who would be following soon. As she was about to speak, she received the wizard's message, always a surprise, even if she was familiar with the magic. She looked at Snoric and Allura, who were close by and gestured to them to come closer.

Edgar reports there are no more guards in the entrance. To the right of the entrance, there is a cave with animal noises, if the wolves are there, that smelly horse meat you are carrying will find a purpose, Allura. Edgar will go investigate there. Further along, there is a Y branch with the left side going up and the path following the right. I will send Ophelia to check the left branch of it. Maybe she will find the water trap, Edgar didn't see it.

Please let me know when the lighting will be an problem for you, I might not realize that you can't see enough anymore. I will give you Selune's blessing to see then. If there is a big fight, come to me, I will use my powers to protect everyone. But for now, go with Selune's awareness.

She lightly touched the big man's forearm then moved back to her rear guard position. Mentally probed, the snow owl took flight and entered the cave.

Give Vigilant Blessing to Solgran, advantage on next initiative roll
Ophelia to investigate the left branch of the Y junction
 Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 18 using 2d20+3, dropping the lowest dice only.  Ophelia perception check (advantage).
 Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Ophelia Stealth.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:21, Wed 21 July 2021.

Allura gives a brief nod of understanding. She gets the horse meat ready to toss to any wolves she might come across and follows in a distance behind her sister looking for this side cave that was mentioned, and keeping alert for the animal noises.



Giving about 30' between her and her sister so she can move up quickly if need be but allowing her sister to be stealthy without her clunkly armor clad self giving away Yana's exact position.


06:43, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 1 using 1d20.  Perception.

Solgran listened to the report, taking in the details and repeating them to himself in a mental sing-song voice. He gave Amalia a single nod and looked down as she touched his forearm. He was ready to go, but he wasn't going to make the same mistake of moving before they were all ready. All he needed was a sign. Any moment now.

Any moment...

Solgran watched Amalia for the queue to move. He might be one to lead the group into battle, but in an ambush situation his clothing and flesh was not hard to pierce. Once they knew it was safe, or where to direct their assault, he would move in.

Any moment now...

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

With the chains, the wolves are out of reach to anyone at the entrance, though any further in you can tell they would reach.

In the distance on the west side of the main passage from the cave mouth climbs steeply upward, the stream plunging and splashing down its west side. In the shadows, a side passage leads west across the other side of the stream.

Allura tilted her head to the side for a moment she hadn't expected chains.
She looked at Solgran, "Shall we end the threat to people in the future by slaughtering them now ?"

She had no illusions that these were happy little puppies and that they should feel bad about ending them.

Yana nodded at her sister's words
"Not a bad idea.  What do the rest of you think?  Take out the dogs before we move on?"

"I grew up in these woods, much further north. Wolves rarely care to attack people, but they will attack other predators that would. I suggest we throw them the meat, let them fill their bellies, and they'll have no reason at all to attack us as long as we leave them alone. Chained as they are, they are no threat if we leave them be."

"If you feel they must die, get all of the ranged combatants up here and you can kill them while the chains keep them away."

Yulin frowned as most of the group disappeared into the cave, she could understand them moving on and decided that waiting for the owl was futile.

She dropped her illusion and shook Osmon by the shoulder. As she stood and brushed herself off she spoke to the human, "They've gone in, we best follow them."

She walked out of the bushes and shrugged as she passed Snoric and walked into the cave.

The dim light was not a problem for the yuan-ti and it wasn't long before she arrived by the others only short distance inside. She peered into the cave as the humans and devil discussed the wolves. Catching the tail end of the conversation she nodded in agreement with Solgran, "Feed them and leave them, I agree." Although that still left the problem of leaving the animal chained up when their group eventually left the cave. She sighed, not entirely trusting the animals not to turn on them were they freed. A problem for later then but she would very much not like to attack chained and defenseless creatures.

Amalia shook her head faced with the suggestion of the bloodthirsty Allura.

I agree with Solgran and Yulin, toss them the meat and leave them be. They are probably left hungry to be so mean. Once we have freed Gundren and Sildar, if they are still here, we could free them to live their life as they should, in the wild.

Looking at the beasts, she still had a small knot of fear in her stomach. Those teeth looked sharp!

Tossing them the meat, "You are all endangering us as well as future travelers. Those chains mean they are trained and domesticated. So be it, they attack you later perhaps you will learn. They attack me later on and I will ensure that you learn." She was not speaking to the wolves.

Allura didn't think a kind heart would serve one bit in this situation. She would rather see the things dead. The meat tossed to them she watched the wolves reactions as well as looking to see if the water level ever changed in the cavern.

Yana shrugged and sighed
"The group has spoken, i suppose."
She clearly didn't agree,  but threw some meat to the animals

Solgran looked into demon-woman's eyes and asked, "So you're saying that if something growls or barks at me, and could potentially cause me danger in the future, I should kill it before it gets the chance? Kill the mutt before it goes rabid."

He paused for but a moment, "Hmm, I will consider your words."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:48, Fri 23 July 2021.

"You had no problem killing those goblin's Solgran and these were raised or trained by those, or worse some bug bear."

A smile plays at her lips, "I know what you imply warrior, I might growl or snarl and I most certainly will bite. Due keep this in mind, I am our groups, wolf. You would be taking your chances even if I were in chains."

Snoric had followed quietly as the group entered the cave.  He didn't offer comment as there didn't seem to be one.  When the talk of wolves came up, the gnome offered no opinion as he knew little about such beasts.  He thought killing them might be better.  He knew nothing of wolves but trained dogs he had definitely seen and knew the damage they could do.

"How can you be sure nobody will be able to get back and release them?  Is there another entrance to this cave?  Does it divert further up?  If these are trained to kill and their masters release them, won't that be trouble for us?  My former master kept guard dogs and when he ordered them to attack they could bring down large animals."


OOC: Can't tell from the map shown if there is an exit to the 'wolf room' to the east.  If there is and we're discovered these wolves could easily come at us from behind.

Yulin rolled her eyes. How Gundren thought some of these creatures would actually help him in his endeavours she did not know. Perhaps the mountain creature wasn't as bright as she had initially thought.

"There are many creaturesss we would need to kill if only the risk of them causing harm was to be considered." She waved a hand to the cave, "I do not think we need to be concerned and I would prefer they were left alone. If anyone wanted to kill the wolves I would not stop them, but neither would I participate."

"Is not the risk worth sparing a creaturesss life?" She shook her head, "Were you chained and at the mercy of othersss would your opinion differ?"

"Should they attack me, or any in my company I consider friend, I would kill them without hesitation. Like the goblins we have recently encountered."

As far as Yulin was concerned one life was not greater than another. Unless that life was a yuani-ti.

"The implication was your own, Allura. I only asked a question." Solgran did not return the smile, instead he looked back toward the wolves to see how they took to the meat. If they reacted as he suspected they would, he would consider trying to calm them further.

Willing Edgar to continue along the fissure at the back of the cave, I feel someone lightly grip my right shoulder and give it a gentle shake, causing it to twitch involuntarily. Separating myself from Edgar's senses, I look to the right to see Miss Scalesong standing next to me, brushing long fingered hands down her trouser legs to shake off any loose debris from the forest floor.

"-gone in, we best follow them."

Looking back to the cave entrance I can see the trailing edge of our party moving inside. "Thank you." I say, pushing myself back to my feet, absent mindedly mimicking her actions, running my fingers down the lower half of my long coat before following.

Catching up to the others, we hear the tail end of their conversation regarding what to do with the three wolves inside. It is interesting that Allura equates chains with training and domestication; to me it implies the opposite. All it really means is that they are under something else's control. Killing them is probably the smarter choice, not leaving a potential threat behind them, but I doubt we could do so without the creatures crying out which might warn the Goblins further in. Perhaps their growling had already done so but them crying out in pain would definitely be noticed. But that is just a justification for why I do not want to kill them not the real reason. Honestly, it sits poorly with me to kill something that had no say in being here or our current conflict with the Goblins; especially when they are currently not an active confirmed threat. Choices like that, while safer and likely correct, stain your soul.

While the others decide I reach out my right arm and lightly rest my hand on the wall, feeling the cold stone, smoothed at some time in the past by the steady, inexorable flow of water, and focus once more on Edgar for a moment.

Summary
Edgar
Fly high and check the fissure at the back of the, "wolf cave," looking for Goblins and traps, particularly signs of the water trap.
Perception: 6 (With advantage and + 3)
Stealth: 21
This message was last edited by the player at 03:50, Fri 23 July 2021.

"I think they are here to hold us to this location. Even being chained they are serving to keep us stalled here."

She looked for other routes to go and for signs that might indicate that a water trap might hit this area since the wolves are keeping them in a holding pattern here. She is ready to move on.

The wolves, seeing several figures, begin pulling at the chain snarling. Two seemed stuck in place, but the slightly bigger of the three jumped, the chain groaning and giving a little.

With the tossing of the horse meat, they narrowed their eyes, sniffing, but soon devoured it, calming them a little

<OOC: it’s clear your presence is known to them and they aren’t happy.

Any person wanting to approach them make a animal handling check.>
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:49, Fri 23 July 2021.

Solgran held his sword out toward Amalia and spoke calmly, "Would you mind holding this for a moment? I know a way to see if they are trained killers or not."

Solgran let the wolves have at the meat for a moment, then tested their attitude toward him. He did not fear the animals, knowing them to be hunters of creatures rather than men. He respected their strength and their desire to protect their families. If they were trained to kill people, this would prove that fact. If they were not, it would prove that instead.

Solgran approached the first wolf, giving enough caution to be respectful, but not afraid. He used sounds to keep the wolf's attention and to distract if it showed signs of fear or a need to give warning.

23:39, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  Animal Handling.

Amalia took the offered sword and managed to not drop it because of its weight. She looked at Solgran and told him in a soft voice, to avoid distracting the eating wolves.

Be careful Solgran.

Keeping the sword in her right hand, she took her holy symbol in her shield hand and mentally revised the words of the spells she had prepared for the day.

Action: prepare to cast Shield of Faith on Solgran if the wolves attack
Bonus action prepare to cast healing word if Solgran drops to 0 HP.

As solgren approached them slowly, the animalistic nature of the human seemed to ring a kinship in them, and with full bellies of horse meat, they settle down, allowing him close, but not touching them.

The barbarian looks around but finds nothing of worth other than a fissure in the back (east) that goes up 30 feet. At its base is rubbish if food craps, linen and rotting meat.

Solgran headed back out, untouched by the wolves, and reclaimed his sword from Amalia. "Thank you. The fissure leads up, thirty feet or so. From what I see on the ground at its base, I'd say the goblins use it to throw down their garbage and to feed scraps to the wolves. It's natural, not carved, so there's a chance we could climb it. Near the fissure, I could hear grunts and goblins speaking up above. Nothing sounded secret, urgent, or otherwise concerned in any way. I got the impression they don't know we're here yet. I think we should take advantage of that and move on while it lasts."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:46, Sat 24 July 2021.

"Well since its unlikely we can all shimmy up the chute without being heard I guess we move on.  Those wolves wont be happy with horse meat for long."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:41, Sun 25 July 2021.

This message was deleted by the player at 12:58, Sat 24 July 2021.

As Solgran was making his round of the wolf enclosure, Ophelia was quietly flying up the passage, as per her instruction. Quickly, she came to decision point, and warned her mistress. Under her mental probing, she flew left, and up until her sensitive eyes caught the light of a bonfire. Describing the scene, she felt the mental presence of Amalia's consciousness with her as she did a survey of what was seen. Falling back to where she had come, as per her instructions, she waited for her mistress to arrive.

All this took place until Solgran came to reclaim his sword. He could see the glazed look of the cleric as she was away in her familiar's body then the sudden blinking that announced her return to the here and now. She gave the big sword back, then pointed down the river.

There is a intersection about thirty feet down, to the left is a steep incline going up. That brought Ophelia to a large cavern with a camp fire burning. There are nine goblins, one seems to be bigger than the others, with two bound prisoners, one male and one female. I did not see a dwarf. There is noise coming from the right branch of that intersection also. I would like to see this climb to this chamber, it was hard to judge how difficult it is from a bird's eye view.

Looking towards the intersection, she noticed that she was starting to see in black and white, sure signs that there was darkness down there. Softly she called Osmon, Yana and Solgran to get closer to her. Taking her holy symbol of the starred twin eyes, she recited some arcane words and with a brief sensation of burning in the eyes, the three humans could now see the world of darkness as the young cleric did.

This gift lasts only for a limited time, let's not tarry.

Sharing Eyes of night with the three humans, 300 feet darkvision, lasts for an hour.

Finding nothing of interest in the fissure behind the wolves I re-direct Edgar back to the main path and along the right fork.

Perception: 18
Stealth: 18
This message was last edited by the player at 23:11, Sun 25 July 2021.

"Nine ? That should take longer then outside." A smile spread across her face.

"Well then, let's be about it."

Yana crept forward,  bow out.

OOC: 18:57, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
18:57, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Perception
13:34, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  Dex



This message was last edited by the player at 18:34, Tue 27 July 2021.

Where did her sister go dammit.

"We need to decide, a militant charge against those goblins, because some of us have a hard time being silent in armor. Or we send a smaller silent group to soften the goblins before the rest of us charge in. I am for dealing with those Goblins."

Yana nodded to her sister's words.
"Sounds like a plan.  We with ranged weapons can sneak forward and open up, and the clankier folks can charge in to clean up the mess"
The magic of dark vision was an incredible experience.   Yana had to admit that she was definitely seeing the appeal of magic.  That was something to consider for the future

Allura was briefly startled by her more stealthy sister but nodded.

She worked some minor magics on herself so that she might draw fire to herself and keep her sister and some of the less combat ready safe.

Her eyes flared with blue light.
https://media.giphy.com/media/...t0qBX1sUJo/giphy.gif

She then runs two fingers along her throat.

Waiting for one of the others to agree with her sister or change things.




12:15, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 3 using 1d20.  Perception.

12:16, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 22 using 1d20+2.  Dexterity.
Nat 20 here.


12:17, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 12,8 using 1d20+2,1d20+2.  Stealth at Disadvantage.

So 8.


This message was last edited by the player at 18:17, Tue 27 July 2021.

Amalia pondered Allura's suggestions for a second or two before shrugging.

I am not the most discrete so I better stand back and try to make as little noise as I can. I do think we should free the prisoners though. Let's try to be quiet and if that doesn't work, then we'll charge.

Maybe Yana will be able to incapacitate any sentries encoutered before they warn the others of our presence? She should see them before they see her.

The cleric took her place at the end of the line, trying to be as stealthy as she could, and keeping her eyes and ears opened. As an additional precaution, she instructed Ophelia to be on the look out for any goblins standing near the top of the climb they'll be taking.

Amalia stealth 13, 3, forgot the disadvantage, so she failed miserably
Amalia perception 23
Amalia dex 8
Ophelia stealth 21
Ophelia perception 5
This message was last edited by the player at 21:04, Tue 27 July 2021.

Solgran normally counted himself among the the quieter ones, but not with this armor. He let the others move ahead with their ranged weapons before following up himself. He rested the greatsword over his left shoulder, and drew out a javelin with his right hand. He was not a ranged fighter, but he could stab something pretty good with one of those things at short range.

Amalia's blessings had given him sight in darkness, which he had never experienced before, and was both a wonderful and confusing at the same time. He liked it, but he also didn't. It felt...odd, not quite wrong, but not right either. The other blessing, however, kept a small but constant stream of adrenaline flowing through his body. It made him feel a bit tingly, a little itchy, but ready to move at a moment's notice. Nothing at all felt wrong about that one, and other than the little bit of itchiness, he enjoyed it.

Perception: 19
Stealth: 9
Dex Check: 15

13:18, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 15 using 1d20+2.  Dex Check.
13:15, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Perception.
- Derped the dice roller, should be a 9, not a 21
13:12, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 21 using 2d20+2, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 19,7.  Stealth.

Yulin had her hesitations about approaching the wolves even though she did not want to see them die. She watched them devour the meat as Solgran approached the wolves, surprised they seemed to essentially ignore him in preference to their meal. That was a good sign she supposed and perhaps if their bellies were full when they left this cave then they could be released back into the wild without any danger to the group. She hoped as much anyway, as she hoped they would return to their usual nature and not prey on travelers. The cave seemed remote enough so that was a good sign that perhaps the wolves would not bother anyone on the roads.

As Amalia detailed what her scouting bird had discovered Yulin frowned in the dim light. Neither captured human appeared to be the creatures they were after, although the make could be the human-slave of Gundren. The presence of the bigger goblin seemed to indicate this would be the most difficult encounter they had faced yet, especially with eight other goblins. Yulin was no strategist so followed the others in their decision to range forward with the more stealthy of the group. She had no ranged weapon on her, and wouldn't even consider using one if she did, but her magic and the bite of her tongue would serve her well enough when the fight began.

09:38, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Dex.
09:38, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Perception.
09:38, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 10 using 1d20+4.  Stealth.

Snoric watched again as members of the group moved out without an accord.  He was getting used to it.  The gnome shrugged and followed up the back.  He hoped leaving the wolves alive would not come back to bite them in the backside. . .quite literally.

He continued to keep his crossbow out for now.  The time for stealth didn't seem to be completely gone, that was a good thing.


Perception: 10
Stealth: 9

As the group moves forward, the see the intersection from the river to the right, and the left sloping branch. The main passage from the cave mouth climbs steeply upward, the stream plunging and splashing down its west side. In the shadows, a side passage leads west across the other side of the stream. In the shadows of the ceiling to the north, you can just make out the dim shape of a rickety bridge of wood and rope crossing over the passage ahead of you. Another passage intersects this one, twenty feet above the floor.

Yana, as quietly as a shadow, as sends the slope like it’s nothing, followed by solgren and allura made their way up the slope, though not with the grace of the human, made it look easy. As Yulin and Amalia made their way, the sound of knocking could be made, as both women slip down the slope a little, hearing the sound echoing in the cave.


<OOC: anyone climbing make a dex check (other than solgren and allura who are up already)

Another perception check from everyone please>
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:45, Wed 28 July 2021.

Not about to be left alone at the bottom, Snoric focused on the slope and pulled himself as best he can.  The gnome was mindful of any scrape of his boots, every stone that broke away.  He constantly looked around, wondering when the hordes would descend on them.

Dex check: 13
Perception: 14

Pulling back from Edgar and turning to warn the others I find myself alone at the cave entrance. Oh dear! Panic begins to rise, causing fight-or-flight hormones to begin to seep into my blood stream causing my heart and breathing rates to increase and my eyes to tingle, almost to burn as if they are dry. Wait, that is not normal. Never mind that, shaking my head as if to dislodge the thought, it is not what is most important right now. Where did they go?

If they went further into the cave it will be difficult to find them, with Edgar keeping watch on the bridge ahead I cannot use his eyes to see in the dark. I could light a torch but that would give away my position to any nearby Goblin; however given their superior ability to see in the dark that might still be preferable. As I pull off my backpack to pull out one of my pre-pared torches a loud clatter of stone against stone echoes from further in the cave causing me to look up, ready to dive out the cave entrance if needed.

It is the others. A breath I had not realised I was holding leaves me in a huff; they are alright. They look strange though, it is almost like all of the colour has been drained from them leaving only faded gray husks. Even Miss Scalesong's normally colourful, and ostentatious garb is flat and dull. How can I see them at all? The light from the entrance does not reach that far and I cannot see any other source of light. What is going on!? It must have something to do with the odd sensation in my eyes but I do not know what caused it.

Amalia and Miss Scalesong are trying to scramble up the debris ridden slope at the left fork while Snoric keeps watch at its base, his crossbow ready. I start to move towards them when an urgent spike of danger comes back over my link to Edgar along with flickering images of rushing water. It seems the Goblins are aware of our presence and have decided to object.

"BEWARE, THEY ARE FLOODING THE STREAM! GET TO HIGH GROUND!" I shout as loud as I can, the stealth part of the operation being over. And rush back out the cave, immediately moving to the left and pressing myself against the cliff wall to try and escape the rushing water.

Summary
Osmon
Call out warning and dash out of cave moving to the right of the map about 10 feet from the cave entrance and pushing himself up against the cliff wall.

Edgar
Keep watch on the Goblins near the bridge.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:01, Wed 28 July 2021.

She turns to lend a hand up for anyone near her.

"Sister get your rope handy." She almost hisses over her shoulder.






05:57, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 3 using 1d20.  Perception.


This message was last edited by the player at 12:18, Wed 28 July 2021.

The trek going up river in the cave started really badly for the clumsy cleric and, as she was concentrating on looking ahead for sentries, she slipped on a wet rock and fell on her knees, her noisy armor clearly marking her position to anyone listening.  Mentally cursing herself, she got up, just in time to see a goblin running across a rickety bridge and dissapear on the right side of the river.

They know we're here!

She quickly tried to climb up the ramp but slipped down and came back to her starting point, as Solgran, Snoric, Yana and Allura were reaching the top easily. That is when Osmon's warning came to her attention and she looked at Yulin, that had also slipped down. There was no time to talk so she grunted and scrambled up the ramp on hands and knees.

Only then did she realize that she hadn't seen Osmon near them at the bottom. Feeling a moment of panic, she sent Ophelia to look for the mage.

Amalia dex 19
Amalia perception 21
 Ophelia perception 7

Yana tried to scramble up the slope.  She tried to have rope ready to throw to her sister, just in case.

OOC:
09:07, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Perception .


This message was last edited by the player at 01:11, Thu 29 July 2021.

The usually dexterous Yulin seemed to be having trouble with the gravel on the slope as she attempted to climb up and join the others.

As the water trap appeared to have been sprung she moved with urgency, trying to scramble up.

09:16, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 5 using 1d20+1.  Perception.
09:15, Today: Yulin Scalesong rolled 13 using 1d20+3.  Dex.

With yana, allura and Solgren up top, and snoric, Amalia and Yulin down the bottom (and Osmon towards the edge of the cave), the separated party had little time as the wizard called out. Allura and yana, too focused on Amalia and Yulin slipping didn’t hear the call of warning, but the others did.

It was snoric who reacted first, climbing and using his hand to scoot up the bank. Both Yulin and Amalia looked at each other and followed suit following just as a torrent of water flew past them. Amalia, a little ahead of the yuan-topi, grasped her hand and pulled her up in the nick of time, but so close was the water that both women had wet feet.

Meanwhile Osmon made it out just as the water rushed by, slipping just a little but remaining uninjured as it flowed past and down the river.


The group, minus the human wizard, watched the water rush by, then slow down to a normal river again.

<OOC: we’ll that was exciting….all characters managed to pass their dex checks in time before the water trap hit them

All of you (minus Osmon) are up on the top of the ramp.

Map to come tomorrow (will edit this post and put it in)>

Yulin would admit she panicked a little as she scramble up the incline, the normally lithe yuan-ti distracted by the rapidly approaching tide. She gave an appreciative look to Amalia as the girl pulled her up, her bare feet and the tail of her armor getting soaked with the flowing water. She stood at the top and shook her feet off with a half-smile. "Well that wasss closer than I would have liked." She shook her head, "And I knew it was coming too..." She chided herself.

She followed the flow of water with her eyes as it drained back to a simple stream. She raised a glance to Amalia, "Appreciate the help but..." She gave a concerned look down the tunnel the way they came, "I'm afraid I left your not-mate down in the tunnelsss... He may have been in the eyesss of his bird at the time the water washed through the cave. It is possible he needsss out help." She didn't mean to cause concern to the girl but it was entirely possible the human man was washed away and was now quite some distance from the cave.

"I saw the scout dodge off to the east, so goblins that direction know that we are here. Solgran kept his voice low as he spoke, and looked around to see what else was visible from this higher view.

14:06, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 6 using 1d20+3.  Perception. ~Oh, shiny rock.~

It was crazy for the familiar for a moment. Tasked to go check for sentries, it almost got caught by the flow of water, getting splashed and almost losing the ability to fly with her wet wings. Then it did it's best to comply to the new instructions to find the tall lanky human, but almost got caught by one of the wolves as it flew too low, her feathers still wet.

The owl gave a shrill hoot of frustration, the fey fragment incarnated in the animal's body finding it impossible to complete its mission if this body's covering was drenched! Ignoring its mistress's calls, it started to shake to remove all the excess water.

Sensing her familiar's frustration, and distressed by Yulin's account of the last time Osmon was seen, the cleric took her symbol and gave a quick prayer to Selune, hoping that the mage was all right. Reiterating her last command to Ophelia, she replied to in the same low voice.

I've sent Ophelia to look for Osmon, but she got hit by water and can't do much now, I pray to Selune that he's all right. If he's injured, I will need to go to him. With all that noise, those holding the prisoners should also know we are here, I think we should go where we know the enemy and get rid of them, before being caught in a pincer

Ophelia perception with advantage, a lousy 6!
This message was last edited by the player at 22:08, Fri 30 July 2021.

My head was finally starting to clear from the blow I had sustained in my struggle with my goblin captors. I wasn't sure how long I had been here, drifting in and out of consciousness as I had been, but it couldn't have been more than several days.

I had been on my way to Neverwinter, to answer the summons my father had received from an old colleague, Gundren Rockseeker. My father, a human in his early fifties, was getting too old for adventuring and asked me to take his place. The small hamlet that he called home was a decent place to hide my heritage, but my appearance still put the people there on edge. Not feeling entirely at home there, I welcomed the chance to explore new places and find people willing to overlook my drow-like appearance.

It was on the road to Neverwinter that I was ambushed, at least six goblins by my count. I was hit in the shoulder with an arrow by one of the two who fired at me, the rest coming forward with swords drawn. I fought valiantly, but eventually succumbed to my wounds and was taken hostage.

The cave I awoke in was divided in half by a ten-foot-high escarpment. I was on the upper ledge, with a steep natural staircase leading down. Next to me was another human, a male, who appeared in as rough of shape as I felt. His wounds appeared fresher than mine, leading me to conclude he had been here maybe a day or so less than I.

As I sat there, waiting for my head to finish clearing so I could think of a way out of my current predicament, I hear muttering coming from the goblins and a huge surge of water from somewhere farther into the caves. The goblins look to their boss, who turns to us after speaking in a guttural language and gestures to the cave entrance. The goblins begin to arm themselves. As they do this, I notice a small owl fly out of the room.

Seeing the human man next to me is awake now, I try to subtly grab his attention. Feeling as though the goblins are distracted enough, I motion to the human next to me to scoot closer. "I can't seem to see where the goblins stashed my gear. Do you see a longbow, quiver of arrows, a dagger, and a double-bladed scimitar by chance?" I whispered to the man, hopeful his eyes are better than my own.

---

OOC:

21:31, Yesterday: Malice Baenrret rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
16:49, Today: Malice Baenrret rolled 1 using 1d20.  Perception.

As the stream of water returned to its previous levels, the ground wet and soft underfoot, I give thanks that my boots were still waterproof. Wet socks would just be the perfect way to end the day. Standing to my full height, I run my hands down my long coat making sure it is hanging straight and wiping off any loose debris. Pausing a moment I close my eyes and focus on Edgar once more, I need to see if they are up to anything before I go inside to rejoin the others.

Summary
Use Edgar to take a look at what the Goblins at the bridge are doing
Perception: 12 (straight roll without advantage due to the area being in darkness and darkvision))

"Goblin's to kill and now drown." She said simply.

She noticed how her outstretched arms to help the others was ignored by everyone even as the waters rose so she brought her arms back and put her shield back on one arm.


She then looked to Solgran, "Looks like we should lead the way again."

Snoric still on his knees post his climb looked around helplessly as events flowed past him.  Things were getting too real for him and his mind, usually buried in books or a mechanical project was having troubled catching up.  He'd just scrambled to avoid possible death, realised a member of the team may indeed be lost, heard a goblin force may be coming and now the group was rushing off to battle them.

His logical brain told him he should have been more alarmed in the actual fight they had engaged in out in the forest.  He'd fought, killed and been wounded.  But that had been so quick, so automatic, a triggered response he had not even considered what he was doing.  This time everything was more 'real' somehow.  While he knew he was intelligent, he was struggling with all the inputs and their emotional contexts hitting him simultaneously.

Pushing himself to his feet, he fell quietly into step behind the others.  He checked Ultio was loose in it's holster.  Despite all his inner turmoil, he knew the time for being quiet was likely past.

Solgran nodded slowly, "We know what to expect. Let's give Amalia about ten seconds to check on Osmon. If he's hurt, saving his life is more important, and we'll know we're going into this fight without her healing."

Solgran was eager to face the goblins before the situation could get worse, but his understanding of the situation was based on assumptions mixed with some knowledge. He was here to protect and to save, which meant he couldn't be careless in how he approached this situation. Mercenaries and hired guards did things a certain way, because they were paid to and knew what they were getting into when they signed on. This was...different.

Waiting for Amalia's findings, Solgran looked over to Yana, "Do you hear any movement?"

Yana shook her head
"All i hear is that water. This cave's echoes are hard to read "
OOC:  14:33, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Perception

Yana frowned.  She missed the sweet embrace of urban living.

Finally dried enough to fly again, the fey/owl took flight and almost collided with Osmon, was he was concentrating on seeing through Edgar's eyes. Sending her report to her owner, she perched herself in a nearby tree, where she could keep an eye on the mage.

He's fine, thank Selune, he stayed at the entrance. We know the goblins know we are here, and we know how many there are over there.

She pointed to the left, towards the prisoners.

Do you think we should wait for Osmon? It is going to be difficult to protect everyone if we are separated. Ophelia keeps an eye on him, maybe I should use her to bring him here.

Yana shrugged and shook her head
"If we've lost the element of surprise,  then we need to move , now.  Before they get more organized "

Allura rests her hand on her sisters shoulder, "It's alright, this is their home and they obviously use it to their advantage. All that water though had to have inconvenienced them in some way too."

She then released her sister's shoulder and looked to Solgran.

"You are a study in contrast Solgran. Your restraint is a thing befitting a commander more then a warrior."

"I seek to make them answer in blood for nearly drowning us, not you though." Allura simply shrugged.


Again she ran her fingers over her throat.


Thaumaturgy

Increase volume of her voice.

Location - outside the cave
Party members - Osmon

As the water subsides, the mage straightens up and as he dusts himself, a familiar sight greets yourself and Edgar - a near waterlogged and grumpy Ophelia flaps out and lands in his shoulder. The mage smiles as he sends his own familiar up the cave to the bridge. He spots two goblins crouching, facing the entrance, but also turning to the right towards whispering.

…of your friends.

---

Location - Unknown
Party members - Malice

As the half drow spoke, the human stired and looked at you, a little concerned, but spoke softly. “I’ve seen no gear…..my head is killing me.” He groaned as he shifted, but looked at her again. “Did you hear that sound…sounded like the ocean crashed through the next room.”

---

Location - Cave
Party members - Allura, Amalia, Snoric, Solgren, Yana, Yulin

As you catch your breath, the water eases up. The sound of your breathing is all you can hear as you look on at the T intersection. From the left the faint flickering glow of light can be seen.

<OOC: from all players except Malice, I need actions (main group, are you waiting for Osmon?) and if moving quietly, stealth rolls.>

Taking a deep breath I step back around the corner and stride into the cave once more, back straight and eyes sweeping for signs of the Goblins. Weaving my fingers through the gestures and muttering the words softly to send a message to Amalia.

<"There are two Goblins at the bridge down the right fork, they appear to be watching you and the others. I will try and take them out of the fight.">

Walking to the fork in the path I keep my focus on the slope up to where the others are before turning and releasing a spell towards the Goblins at the bridge.

Summary
Note: I realize all of this may not happen based on DM rulings. Also I have included as many rolls as I think might come up.

Step 1: Osmon moves up to the fork in the path pretending to be focused on the left path. Edgar retreats back to the fork.
Osmon Deception: 5
Osmon Perception (Vision): 7
Osmon Perception (Hearing): 10
Edgar Perception (Vision): 18
Edgar Stealth: 13

Step 2: Osmon casts Sleep centred where Edgar spotted the Goblins
Osmon Initiative: 19
Osmon casts Sleep affecting 22 HP worth of creatures in targeted area.
Edgar Initiative: 14
Edgar Perception (Are the Goblins sleeping): 5

Step 3: Osmon scrambles up slope to rejoin party, relays effectiveness of spell to Amalia, Edgar flies up the left fork looking for the captives.
Osmon Dex check: 16 (rolled earlier but not used, if I need a new roll 14)
Osmon casts Message target Amalia, passing on results of Sleep spell
Edgar Perception (Vision): 23
Edgar Stealth: 7
This message was last edited by the player at 15:08, Sun 01 Aug 2021.

Solgran waited, nerves fluttering as he balanced on the edge between patient calm and combat aggression. He drew in a deep breath to help maintain the calm, knowing that there was a chance they would have to abandon this fight to rush to Osmon's aid, and getting too much excitement now would lead to unnecessary fatigue later, and they still didn't know for sure how many goblins remained in this cave.

He watched for a sign from Amalia to know which direction he was going, but either way he was preparing to move, and soon.

Yana spoke quietly, her bow out
"Shall we go left?  Time is running out "
She was sounding a bit...stressed.  Not afraid, but concerned about their dropping chances for success

"Would be fine by me." said in a whisper which still came out as clearly spoken due to her enhanced voice.

She wanted to say more for there was certainly more to say. She too looked to Amalia for the report on Osmon.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:56, Sun 01 Aug 2021.

As Snoric took some deep breaths, he drew Ultio and prepared himself for what was coming.  The time for stealth seemed over as the goblins clearly knew they were there.

"We should move.  They know we're here.  Either in this passage or they think we're washed out the front.  Either way we need to move before they surround us."  Snoric waited though he clearly thought they should move.  He had been happy to be forward scout when this was all about stealth and deception, now it seemed battle was inevitable, he felt his role was in the back lines offering ranged support.

Unless stopped, Yana proceeded forward,  bow at the ready.  She was a bit apprehensive about getting to their enemies before their enemies found them.  Unfortunately,  it made her a bit clumsier and more oblivious than usual

OOC: 18:11, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 6 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
18:11, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 5 using 1d20+1.  Perception

Allura gripped her sisters shoulder, whispering again though it came out like normal speech, "Wait for the report on our wizard."

The hard edge to her words soften slightly as she glanced back to Amalia.

Amalia was concentrating on Ophelia and saw Osmon cast a spell. Almost immediately, she heard Osmon voice in her head, shocking her back to her body. As she was listening, she unconsciously turned her head toward the right passage, away from the prisoners.

Osmon says there are 2 goblins down to the right, watching towards the entrance and towards us. He says he's going to try to deal with them.

With the return message spell, she said to the mage.

Come join us soon, we'll go free the prisoners, let us know if you can't deal with the goblins. I'll place a rope to help you climb up.

Breaking the connection, she took her rope from the side of her bag and attached it to a rocky outcropping before sending it down.

Now we can go free those prisoners. I'll try to put as many goblins as I can asleep, so don't touch those that fall, it would just wake them up.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:58, Mon 02 Aug 2021.

Allura nods to Amalia then looks back to Yana.
Whispered again, "Give the magic man his chance to deal with those two. Then we move, and no one forget the wolves at our heels."

Location - cave
Party members - Osmon

Osmon walks up slowly, spying the goblins as they were preoccupied with the sounds to their right. Osmon walked to the intersection, using the corner for cover, where he finally saw the group eagerly waiting.

He turned the corner and uttered a simple but effective spell. The goblins made to go towards the others when they both fell to the floor, unconscious.

With a smile, he staggers up the slope with the help of the others, re-joining the party.

---

Location - Cave intersection
Party members - Everyone (Minus Malice)

With Osmon returned to the group, the consensus was to move quickly. With Solgran and Allura leading, you turn the cave corner to see a large cave, divided in half by a ten-foot-high escarpment, a steep natural staircase  leads from the lower portion to the upper ledge.

The air is hazy with the smoke of the cooking fire, and pungent from the smell of poorly cured hides and unwashed goblins.

As you round the corner, you see several goblins ready for you, three with bows aimed at you from the upper tier, along with a big goblin at there side. all three fire, missing Allura once and Solgren twice. Along with them, there are several other goblins on the lower floor armed with daggers and swords.

on the upper floor you see two huddled figures, bound behind the goblins.

---

Location - Cave
Party members - Malice

As you struggle to free yourself, you hear commotion, and the four goblins you see up top with you fire arrows, then chatter, the big one actually slapping one across the head.

<OOC: Iniative from everyone as well as moves. Map will go up tonight after work With placements so bare with me, but there are four goblins up top with the two prisoners (Three with bows and one large goblin), and 6 goblins below.

Post move and whether you aim at upper tier or lower tier goblin (Or the big leader)>


This message was last edited by the GM at 10:10, Mon 02 Aug 2021.

Allura releases a blast at one of the goblins menacing with weapons and moves with Solgran having given word she would.


19:49, Today: Allura Whitlock rolled 19 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.
Bonus action: Shift Hex to new target one of the melee combatants and the target of her eldritch blast.
And a miss on the Eldritch blast. 7
Having said she would join Solgran she does not go back on her word and joins him in his movement.

This message was lightly edited by the player at 02:10, Mon 02 Aug 2021.

As aoon as she saw their enemies waiting for them,  as she'd feared,  Yana fired her readied shot, then tried to find cover for return fire

OOC:  Action- Fire at goblin archer closest to prisoners, then tried to Hide.

21:01, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 20 using 1d20+3.  Initiative

21:06, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.

21:04, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 5 using 1d6+3.  Damage . 10.with crit

21:04, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Bow.


Round 2:



21:11, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 7 using 1d6+3.  Damage .

21:11, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  Second bow shot




This message was last edited by the player at 02:12, Mon 02 Aug 2021.

Solgran nodded to Amalia at her report, nodded to Allura to signal it was time to move, and then rushed toward the goblins off to the left of the group. He knew a battle with the bugbear was coming up, so he did his best to pace himself and stay focused throughout the attack, sticking close to Allura or presenting an obstacle between the goblins and those who would be standing further back.

As he reached his first target, he took a wide swing. He hoped it would hit, but that wasn't quite as important as getting the attention of the goblins. So he swung big and hard, arcing the massive blade through the air with a yell.

Initiative: 14 (advantage from Amalia)

Round 1
Move: close on the lower goblins (never target a sleeping one)
Action: Attack w/ Greatsword, Miss AC 8 for 14 slashing
Reaction: Sentinel/OA attack, Hit AC 15 for 11 Slashing

Round 2
Move: if needed, close to melee
Action: Attack w/ Greatsword, Hit AC 23 for 8 Slashing
Reaction: Sentinel/OA attack, Hit AC 16 for 11 Slashing

20:52, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 14 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  Initiative.
20:52, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 8,14 using d20+5,2d6+3.  Attack: Greatsword.
20:53, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 15,11 using d20+5,2d6+3.  OA/Sentinel Attack.
20:54, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 23,8 using d20+5,2d6+3.  Attack: Greatsword.
20:54, Today: Solgran Farnzythe rolled 16,11 using d20+5,2d6+3.  OA/Sentinel Attack.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:45, Mon 02 Aug 2021.

Amalia was really glad when she saw Osmon climb up the ramp and rejoin them, and she gave him a small smile, before moving with the others to the left branch. The twang of bow string resounded, followed by black arrows striking the ground, fortunately missing her companions. But she couldn't let that happen again. Finding the right words, she started to cast a spell she had never used in anger before, another of the numerous gifts Selune had bestowed on the young cleric.

Looking up the ledge, she pointed at the archer goblins and the heftier one and finished her casting with a single word.

Sleep

Casting Sleep on the archers and big goblin, 26 HP affected.

Ophelia flies up and does the help action on the bigger goblin, in case someone wants to attack him.

Amalia Firnam rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  Ophelia initiative.

Amalia Firnam rolled 10 using 1d20.  Amalia initiative.

21:21, Today: Amalia Firnam rolled 26 using 5d8.  Amalia sleep spell.

Initiative
Osmon: 16
Edgar: 4

Turn 01 (Surprise Round)

Standing at the back of the procession in these narrow confines my options are limited. Looking about desperately for anything that can help but I can not see anything I can use. I cannot see...Weaving my fingers through the motions I release the spell quickly.

"FOR GUNDREN, CHARGE!!" A booming voice echoes out from just outside the entrance to the larger cave followed by many voices cheering and the stamping of many feet.

Turn summary
Osmon
Action: Cast Minor Illusion to create sound.

Turn 02
As Allura clears the entrance I get my first luck at the Goblins arrayed to meet us. There sure are a lot of them. Well it worked earlier, hopefully it will work now.

"Amalia, go high, I will go low." I tell the young woman hoping she remembers our conversations on the road discussing possible tactics. Weaving the spell once more, I release it centred on the group of Goblins on the lower tier, whistle to Edgar pointing at the higher tier, and duck to the side to maximise any cover I can get from the archers.

Turn Summary
Osmon
Action: Cast Sleep centred on the Goblins on the lower tier (X) affecting 24 hit points worth creatures.
Bonus Action: Nil.
Move: Take position near the entrance where I can maximise cover from the archers on the upper tier and go prone(-->, total cover, if possible but I will take what I can get, prone - an attack roll against the creature has advantage if the attacker is within 5 feet of the creature. Otherwise, the attack roll has disadvantage)

Edgar
Move: Fly up to 60ft towards the higher tier maintaining as much altitude as possible (X).
Action: Investigate, look for any additional enemies (Perception: 5 if the area is dark and 6 if it is lit)


This message was last edited by the player at 10:34, Mon 02 Aug 2021.

Hearing the pained tone in the human's voice, I place my hand on his shoulder. "I think I can help with that." There are many goblins here and it seems fighting might ensue, I'd better not use all my resources just yet. Addressing his other concern, "I remember waking up briefly and hearing a water source, I'm not sure if there is any more to it than that. These goblins could be intelligent enough to set up traps, but I cannot say for sure."

Suddenly, arrows are flying from the goblins on the top ledge with us, there must be people below. Now might be the time to act!

I was easily able to slip out of my bounds, although until I can locate my gear, it might be wise to keep that a secret. Scanning more thoroughly around the room, I hoped to spy the familiar weapons.

---

OOC:
Before initiative- 5HP lay on hands to the human
Initiative- 20
Round 1- Slip out of bonds. 18 Acrobatics
Round 2- Look for weapons. 15 Perception
Conditional movement- If I can see my weapons and it takes more than 30ft to reach them, will move 30ft toward them.

21:09, Yesterday: Malice Baenrret rolled 20 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.
01:13, Today: Malice Baenrret rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  Acrobatics.
01:13, Today: Malice Baenrret rolled 15 using 1d20.  Perception...we'll try it again.

As the ambush was sprung, survived and then sprung again Yulin struggled to keep up with everything that was happening. She righted her self and focused as the goblins became visible, managing to react quickly to the fight ahead.

Remembering the goblin that essentially exploded outside after it was hit by the devil's magic Yulin raised her voice to compel Allura, "Devil Allura, I have misjudged and mistreated you. You are a delightfully violent companion and I would much rather you fight with me than against me. Show me a bloody spectacle! Fight to the end of our enemiesss!"

With Allura rallied Yulin turned her attentions to the larger goblin, the hobgoblin. She spat an insult at the creature, "So doesss all that dirt and ugly make you hit harder or are you just like that for no benefit?"

Not really wanting to find out Yulin retreats to a safer position.

As the battle progressed Yulin focused on insulting the hobgoblin, trying to shake his confidence while boosting Solgran's morale at the same time.

Initiative: 17

Turn 1
Bonus: Bardic Inspiration on Allura (1d6 die added to ability check, attack or save)
Action: Cast Vicious Mockery (WIS DC13 3dam, disadv. on next attack) on;
1. Hobgoblin (Klarg?)
or if out of range (60ft)
2.Nearest unhurt goblin
Move: Move to cover if available.

Turn 2
Move: Up to half movement out of cover
Bonus: Bardic Inspiration on Solgran (1d6 die added to ability check, attack or save)
Action: Cast Vicious Mockery (WIS DC13 3dam, disadv. on next attack) on;
1. Hobgoblin (Klarg?)
or if out of range (60ft)
2.Nearest goblin in melee with group member
Move: Move back to cover

Snoric sees the goblins on the vantage upstairs and reaches into his pouch, pulling out a small rind of bacon he saved from his breakfast.  Crushing it in his hand he visualised the goblins upstairs and realeased his spell.

Once the spell took hold, he drew Ultio and commenced firing.


Initiative - 9
Round 1 - Cast Grease (10ft square centred between the four goblins upstairs)
Subsequent rounds - will attack with Ultio, any goblin not in melee

ROUND 1

The woman figure managed to wriggle her hands enough to loosen the bonds while the goblin's were distracted, causing a little rope burn but making no real damage, but managed to get loose. Getting to her knee's she looks around for gear, either hers or the other human prisoner, but see's none other than what the goblins have.

Yana, reacting almost on instinct once the arrow clattered near her sister, took aim and fired at the goblin who shot at her. Her shot true, hit the goblin in the forhead enough to snap it's head back violently, dropping the archer

While her sister protected her, the tiefling called her magical abiliy granted by her patron, missing the goblin, she moves up next to the first goblin

Yulin, meanwhile places a hand on Allura as she leaves, whispering praise to the woman's skill and prowess, the tiefling feeling inspired by the whisper of the yuan-ti <Allura, You have a 1d6 die added to ability check, attack or save> , then she looks at the nearest goblin and lashes out with an insult. The goblin looked shocked by the words and took note of itself, a look of shame in it's eyes.

Osmon, looking at Amalia, had sa plan in mind and again cast the sleep spell. Three goblins drooped their eyes and dropped their weapons as they dropped, one shaking it's head awake. He then backs away from the area to take cover near the entrance from the archers.

The largest goblin, holding a shortbow of his own, drew a bead on the most obvious target, Solgran. His shot true, hits the barbarian below his arm in the ribs. The shot, though exceptional, was lacking power <Solgran takes 5 Piercing damage>

Solgren, Snarling at the irritation, swiped with his greatsword, the sting making his shot miss.

The goblins, seeing there chance, attacked like a swarm of loctus. The two archers split targets an fire, each hitting there marks, One snoric, the other Yana <Both Snoric and Yana takes 7 Piercing Damage damage>

The Goblin closest to the stairs focuses it's gaze on the young cleric and comes in swinging, his sword hitting armor without a scratch to her. One advances on Solgren and swings, missing as it dodged the huge sword. The final one, still shaken by Yulin's insult, swung it's sword in anger at Allura, gashing the womans arm <Allura takes 7 damage>

Amalia, still facing the goblin with shield up, mutters a prayer to her godddess, asking her help with the beasts above. Another two drop down sleeping, leaving the large goblin fuming and glaring at the cleric then he too fell down asleep.

Snoric, seeing the antics of what happened, used his unique skills and send a slimy grease up on the shelf, covering the sleeping goblins and the boss. The goblin struggled, but maintained footing.




<OOC: Round one is over. There is one goblin dead, 5 asleep, one injured and 3 uninjured, plus the boss on the top tier.

Bad news is they rolled very well and a lot of you are injured. Solgren was lucky as the boss crit rolled and his damage was a 1 and a 2.

Yellow Hexagons are the ones asleep. The grey circle is the grease spell

Round two people....You can maintain your previous stated moves if you included them or make another, your choice>


Allura: 8/15  [1d6 Inspiration Die]
Osmon: 14/14
Snoric: 10/17
Solgran: 20/23 
Amalia: 18/18
Yulin: 15/15
Yana: 8/15
Malice: 22/22 

Goblin Leader: ??/??
Goblin (9): ??/??

This message was last edited by the GM at 09:06, Tue 03 Aug 2021.

Amalia took a quick look at the tactical situation and noted that a few of her companions had been hit, before Osmon's and her dual sleep spells got half of the goblins asleep. There was no emergency but she could see that the big goblin was getting frantic. Before he did something like waking up the archers on the ledge, she decided to eliminate him from the equation, ignoring the goblin that had tried to hit her, figuring her armor and shield would protect her again.

amalia toll the dead on the big goblin, 12 if injured, 2 if uninjured,  DC 14 wis save

If big goblin is dead at her turn, target another goblin that's not asleep.

Ophelia does the help action on the big goblin
This message was last edited by the player at 02:04, Tue 03 Aug 2021.

Yana grunted daintily as she was hit by the goblins crude arrow.  Painfully she drew up her bow again.   Seeing one archer left, she decided to focus all of her concentration on him before moving on.  Using the sniper skills she'd learned at the Guild, honed with years of dedication,  she focused on the vitals and weak spots on the enemy archer.

OOC:14:56, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 18 using 1d20.  Sharpshooter shot
  14:58, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 15 using 1d6+13.  Damage arrow round 2.
14:58, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 14 using 1d6+13.  Damage 1st arrow, round 1.
14:56, Today: Yana Whitlock rolled 18 using 1d20.  Round 2 Sharpshooter shot.