1ST ADVENTURE - MEDDLING WITH FORCES BETTER LEFT ALONE
Arzaak is a Tiefling, meaning he is either a descendant of humans who entered into pacts with infernal beings or a mix between regular humans and distant descendants of those devils.
Despite having had a rough childhood, estranged and segregated from the company of humans, Arzaak refrained from the path of the thief or the assassin, as many of origin similar to his had followed. Instead, he dedicated his efforts and attention to the only thing he found worth of dedication in the world: magic.
However, Arzaak was clumsy and, frankly, not the brightest wolf in the pack. Any wizard could see from a single glance that the Tiefling had no aptitude to wield magic whatsoever. Despite being denied tutelage by more than a dozen wizard or sorcerer teachers, he stubbornly refused to give up, remaining steady in his studies in the attempt of uncovering fantastic secrets of the universe that no one, except the gods, could conceive.
Kali was basically his opposite. Smart, quick-witted and strong, she was a descendant of noble elves who, aeons ago, became corrupt and ended up banished to the underground. Those were called Drows, or dark elves. Refusing to take part in the Drow’s corrupt schemes and treachery despite being a little child, she was sentenced to torture and death by Lolth herself, the spider goddess worshipped by her race. However, the dark elves had no idea how clever the little girl was, and by the time they realized she had escaped—hours before the torturing and execution took place—she was long gone already.
Alone and starving, Kali wandered for miles until her small body finally succumbed to exhaustion and she fell, unconscious. To her luck, a barbarian saw her lying on the ground and had his heart free enough of prejudice to carry her back to their settlement before the vultures started trying their luck on her motionless body.
Learning the way and the culture of the barbarians, Kali relinquished her Drow ancestry and began calling herself a barbarian too. She became a proficient hunter, and to watch her, with her small figure, wield a great axe with ferocity and skill was the pride of the tribe as well as the joy of the children.
Arzaak and Kali coming together as adventurers was, at least, a bizarre whim of fate, and at most, a decision made by the gods millennia ago. Apparently, they decided to become adventurers at the same time, even though they were unaware of each other's existence. Arriving at one of the guilds in Silverymoon, Arzaak attracted attention from almost everyone with his handsomely exotic appearance. Almost everyone because Kali, sipping a beer while checking the guild quests poster, paid absolutely no mind to his flashy entrance.
***
Arzaak had curled and thick ram-like horns on his head, a prehensile tail 5-feet in length, sharply pointed teeth, and his eyes were solid orbs of gold. His skin was a light shade of red, but his hair, which started behind his horns, was a strong, scarlet red, evoking his infernal lineage.
Although wearing adventuring boots and gloves most of the time to avoid being frowned upon, he had clawed fingers on his hands and feet. They were sharp, but not enough to tear through leather or stronger armor.
He had an overall slender build, not very muscular due to his time being mostly spent studying rituals and practicing cantrips other than carrying weight or training acrobatic moves.
Kali wasn't any less exotic in appearance than Arzaak, although her features were less...charming. As most Drows, she had black skin that resembled polished obsidian and stark white hair. Her eyes were a pale shade of lilac, and she could be considered short for an elf—even by drow standards. She had this strange combination of finely chiseled features, such as long and delicate fingers and toes, with a barbaric and sometimes rude attitude, and her simple black clothes, as well as the great axe tied to her back, mirrored her stout personality.
***
Silverymoon, or the "gem of the north" as it was called for resembling Myth Drannor in its days of glory, was one of the few civilized places in the middle of the rough and untamed wilderness that was the North of Faerûn. The bumbling city was renowned as a place that promoted plurality of races and its ruler, a powerful wizard called High Lady Alustriel, was wise, fair and highly charismatic, to the point of instilling into the minds of the people the need to bring all races together in the attempt of civilizing the whole North.
That didn't mean Tieflings or Drows were received with hoorays in every corner. From the occasional side glance and a scowl to priests holding onto their holy symbols or literally casting protection spells, prejudice was there for anyone with eyes—or whatever they had in their place—to see. Having grown used to that kind of treatment, both Arzaak and Kali would rather mind their own business than make a scene.
Noticing Kali by the quest bulletin board by herself, Arzaak hesitated. He was just a beginner warlock that made a pact with a powerful being by accident, and she seemed stern and focused, the great axe hanging on her back serving only to increase the intimidation factor.
"Are you looking for a quest?", she asked without looking back.
"Uh...sorry, what?", he replied, uncertain.
"You're a little slow on the uptake, ain't ya? I'm asking if you're looking for a quest", she said and emptied her beer mug, putting it on the counter with a bang.
"Oh...yeah. I'm trying, at least. Kinda hard to find a quest that even a newbie can go on and come back alive", Arzaak said.
"The risk of dying on a quest doesn't decrease as you grow stronger. It's quite the opposite, actually", Kali noted.
"You seem experienced for someone apparently as young as me", Arzaak said.
"I'm not experienced at questing and adventuring, but I'm experienced at staying alive. That should be good enough for starters", Kali said.
Arzaak nodded, unsure of what to say.
"So... there's a quest we could try here", she said, pointing at the board with her chin.
"Giant rat infestation in a settlement next to the High Forest", Arzaak read. “Giant rats? Really?”.
"Better than fighting a beholder. Are you in or not?", she asked, impatient. "50gp for each of us if we clear the area".
"I guess. But can we make it, just the two of us?", Arzaak asked.
"I don't think anyone will agree to join a party with a big-horned red guy of infernal ancestry and a dark elf with an axe", she said.
"You can call me Arzaak instead of big-horned red guy of infernal ancestry".
"I'm Kali. Let's get going. Those rats are not gonna kill themselves…I guess”.
----------------------------------------
QUEST START
----------------------------------------
ARZAAK (Warlock/Tiefling – LV 1)
* Strength: 8 (modifier -1)
* Dexterity: 9 (modifier -1)
* Constitution: 14 (modifier +2)
* Intelligence: 10 (modifier 0)
* Wisdom: 17 (modifier +3)
* Charisma: 18+2 (modifier +5)
* HP: 8+2
* ARMOR CLASS: 10 (Leather Armor 11 AC - 1 Dex modifier)
* ALIGNMENT: Chaotic/Neutral
* HEIGHT: 5'7-feet (1.73 meters) tall
* WEIGHT: 130 pounds (58 kg)
SPELLS:
* Hex (1st) – allotted
* Witch Bolt (1st)
----------------------------------------
Level 1 Proficiency: +2
* Spell save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus (+2) + your Charisma modifier (+5) = 15 DC.
* Spell attack modifier = your proficiency bonus (+2) + your Charisma modifier (+5) = +7 to hit.
----------------------------------------
RACIAL TRAITS:
* Size. Tieflings are about the same size and build as humans. Your size is Medium.
* Speed. Your base walking speed is 30 feet.
* Darkvision. Thanks to your infernal heritage, you have superior vision in dark and dim conditions. You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can’t discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.
* Hellish Resistance. You have resistance to fire damage.
* Infernal Legacy. You know the Thaumaturgy cantrip. Once you reach 3rd level, you can cast the Hellish Rebuke spell once per day as a 2nd-level spell. Once you reach 5th level, you can also cast the Darkness spell once per day. Charisma is your spellcasting ability for these spells.
* Languages. You can speak, read, and write Common and Infernal.
PROFICIENCIES:
* Armor: Light armor
* Weapons: Simple weapons
* Tools: None
* Saving Throws: Wisdom, Charisma
* Proficiencies: Arcana and History
* Cantrips: Eldritch Blast, Chill Touch and Thaumaturgy
* Background: Sage
FEATURE: RESEARCHER
* You spent your childhood and teenage investigating the lore of the multiverse. You scoured manuscripts, studied scrolls, and listened to the greatest experts on the subjects that interest you. Your efforts have made you a master in your fields of study. When you attempt to learn or recall a piece of lore, if you do not know that information, you often know where and from whom you can obtain it. Usually, this information comes from a library, scriptorium, university, or a sage or other learned person or creature. The great knowledge you seek might be secreted away in an almost inaccessible place, or maybe cannot be found at all.
EQUIPMENT
* A short sword and two daggers (1d6 slashing or 1d4 slashing minus Str or Dex modifier)
* An arcane focus
* An explorer backpack
* Leather Armor AC 10 (-1 Dex modifier)
* A bottle of black ink, a quill, a small knife, a set of common clothes, and a belt pouch containing 10 gp
Archfey pact. Arzaak, not particularly bright for a Tiefling, made a pact with a powerful entity by accident. In one of his trips to an old and abandoned library, he stumbled upon a curious collection of ancient black-covered tomes. Scattered within the dusty pages, he found passages written in infernal language by someone self-titled Tasha, along with runes the Tiefling had never seen before. The texts had this journal feeling, made by someone who had been to Hell and back. The strange runes exuded power, which caused him to feel an urge to decipher their meaning. Excited by the possibility of uncovering amazing secrets, Arzaak studied the meaning of the runes and, by force of habit, read them aloud. Among them, one read “Iggwilv”. Other read "source". Another, “power”. Another, "ambition". Arzaak's curiosity darted through the roof when there was only one rune left to translate – the most cryptic and complex one. After a good deal of effort and research, the rune read “pact”. Before Arzaak came to realize, he had already pledged for a pact with the Archfey Iggwilv, a.k.a Tasha, known as the daughter of the legendary sorceress Baba Yaga and the writer of the Demonomicon.
Fey presence. Starting at 1st level, your patron bestows upon you the ability to project the beguiling and fearsome presence of the fey. As an action, you can cause each creature in a 10-foot cube originating from you to make a Wisdom saving throw against your warlock spell save DC. The creatures that fail their saving throws are all charmed or frightened by you (your choice) until the end of your next turn. Once you use this feature, you can’t use it again until you finish a short or long rest.
----------------------------------------
KALI (Barbarian/Drow – LV 1)
* Strength: 16 (modifier +3)
* Dexterity: 15 (modifier +2)
* Constitution: 13 (modifier +1)
* Intelligence: 12 (modifier +1)
* Wisdom: 7 (modifier -2)
* Charisma: 7+1 (modifier -1)
* HP: 13 (12 + 1 Con modifier)
* ARMOR CLASS: 14 (12 Hide Armor + 2 Dex modifier)
* ALIGNMENT: Chaotic/Neutral
* HEIGHT: 5'5-feet (1.67 meters) tall
* WEIGHT: 134 pounds (60 kg)
RACIAL TRAITS:
* Superior Darkvision. Your darkvision has a radius of 120 feet.
* Sunlight Sensitivity. You have disadvantage on attack rolls and on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight when you, the target of your attack, or whatever you are trying to perceive is in direct sunlight.
* Drow Magic. You know the Dancing Lights cantrip. When you reach 3rd level, you can cast the Faerie Fire spell once per day. When you reach 5th level, you can also cast the Darkness spell once per day. Charisma is your spellcasting ability for these spells.
* Fey Ancestry. Drows have advantage on saving throws against being charmed, and can’t be put magically to sleep.
* Drow Weapon Training. You have proficiency with rapiers, short swords, and hand crossbows.
* Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common and Elvish.
PROFICIENCIES
* Armor: Light armor, medium armor, shields
* Weapons: Simple weapons, martial weapons
* Tools: Flute
* Saving Throws: Strength, Constitution
* Skills: Athletics, Survival
* Background: Hunter
FEATURE: WANDERER
* You have an excellent memory for maps and geography, and you can always recall the general layout of terrain, settlements, and other features around you. In addition, you can find food and fresh water for yourself and up to five other people each day, provided that the land offers berries, small game, water, and so forth.
EQUIPMENT
You start with the following equipment:
* A two-handed great axe (1d12 slashing + 3 Str modifier)
* Two hand axes (1d6 + 3 slashing)
* A rapier (1d8 + 3 piercing - finesse)
* An explorer’s backpack
* Javelins (1d6 + 3 piercing)
* A hide medium armor (AC 12 + 2 Dex modifier)
* A staff (1d6 + 3 bludgeoning)
* A hunting trap
* A trophy from an animal you killed
* A set of traveler’s clothes
* A belt pouch containing 10 gp
RAGE
In battle, you fight with primal ferocity. On your turn, you can enter a rage as a bonus action. While raging, you gain the following benefits if you aren’t wearing heavy armor:
* You have advantage on Strength checks and Strength saving throws.
* When you make a melee weapon attack using Strength, you gain a bonus to the damage roll that increases as you gain levels as a barbarian, as shown in the Rage Damage column of the Barbarian table.
* You have resistance to bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing damage.
***
"It's a good thing both of us can see well in the dark”, Arzaak remarked. "Finding those rats in broad daylight would've been far trickier".
"Don't count on me for hunting in the daytime", Kali replied, pushing aside sticks and leaves. "Thanks to this stupid drow ancestry, sunlight messes with my senses".
“You don't seem too fond of your heritage", Arzaak observed.
"I like being a barbarian", she retorted. "That's what I am".
"Sure, sure", he replied, attempting to soothe the tension.
"Can you smell that? It reeks of carrion", Kali said with a grimace.
"What creatures other than rats we might find in this forest that eat carrion?", Arzaak asked.
"I don't know. Spiders, maybe?", Kali answered.
"Maybe we should keep an eye out for spiderwebs, just in case", Arzaak said, nervous as he scanned the surroundings. “But if we bump into a giant spider, we’re outta here, okay?”.
“I know very well that we can’t deal with a giant spider”, Kali stated with a flat face. “Just focus on the rats, okay?”.
Then, a chirping sound caught their ears.
“You hear that?”, Kali whispered. “It’s very close. Ready your weapon…or magic, whatever”.
“Throw a stone in that direction”, Arzaak suggested to Kali, pointing northwest. “I imagine the rat will attack it as if it were a threat, revealing its position”.
“That seems too obvious a strategy”, Kali remarked, doing as the Tiefling suggested only out of spite. Surprisingly, as soon as the stone struck the leaves on the ground, a massive rodent, the size of a large dog, leapt from the shadows.
----------------------------------------
A giant rat has appeared (8 HP).
INITIATIVE ROLL
* Giant Rat: 16
* Kali: 12
* Arzaak: 8
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
Rat attacks. Rolled 4. Missed.
Kali attacks. Rolled 10. Hit for 1d12+3: 4 damage.
Arzaak attacks with Eldritch Blast. Rolled 10. Hit for 1d10: 10 damage.
* Giant Rat HP: -02/10
Giant Rat has been obliterated. Party earns 50 XP.
----------------------------------------
“That seemed easy”, Arzaak said, rubbing his hands.
“Don’t get too confident”, Kali said, already searching their surroundings for more rats. “One-shotting a lone rat is one thing; fighting a pack is a whole different story”.
“You talk like a seasoned adventurer”, Arzaak mocked.
“I may not be seasoned but I can still chop you in half”, Kali threatened without looking back, leaving him in doubt whether she was serious or not. “Now get ready to cast your force beams again. I can see the foliage shaking and you know what that means”.
“It means it’s rat hunting time!”, Arzaak said, excited to fight again.
----------------------------------------
Two giant rats (6 HP, 6 HP) and a giant fire beetle (4 HP) have appeared.
INITIATIVE ROLL
* Giant Rat 1: 8
* Giant Rat 2: 8
* Giant Fire Beetle: 17
* Arzaak: 6
* Kali: 10
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
Giant Fire Beetle attacks Kali. Rolled 9. Missed.
Kali attacks Giant Fire Beetle. Rolled 6. Missed.
----------------------------------------
Giant Rats have advantage on attack rolls when attacking in packs.
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 1 attacks Kali. Rolled 1, 17. Hit for 1d4+2: 5 damage.
* Kali HP: 08/13
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 2 attacks Arzaak. Rolled 4, 11. Hit for 1d4+2: 6 damage.
* Arzaak HP: 04/10
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Giant Rat 2. Rolled 9. Hit for 1d10: 6 damage.
* Giant Rat 2 HP: 00/06
Giant Rat 2 is dead.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 2
----------------------------------------
Giant Fire Beetle attacks Kali. Rolled 8. Missed.
Kali attacks Beetle. Rolled 3. Missed.
Rat 1 attacks Kali. Rolled 11, 9. Missed.
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Rat 1. Rolled 14. Hit for 1d10: 2 damage.
* Giant Rat 1 HP: 04/06
----------------------------------------
ROUND 3
----------------------------------------
Giant Fire Beetle attacks Kali. Rolled 15. Hit for 1d6-1: 2 damage.
* Kali HP: 06/13
----------------------------------------
Kali attacks Giant Fire Beetle. Rolled 16. Hit for 1d12+3: 14 damage.
* Giant Fire Beetle HP: -10/04
Giant Fire Beetle has been chopped in half.
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 1 attacks Kali. Rolled 3. Missed.
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Giant Rat 1. Rolled 12. Hit for 1d10: 3 damage.
* Giant Rat 1 HP: 01/06
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 1 will attempt to escape. Kali will make an opportunity attack. Rolled 15. Hit for 1d12+3: 12 damage.
* Giant Rat 1 HP: -11/06
Giant Rat 1's head has been ripped off.
Party earns 120 XP.
----------------------------------------
“We should take a break and rest a little”, Kali suggested, slumping against the gnarled roots of a huge tree as she tended to a jagged wound along her forearm, courtesy of the giant rat’s sharp teeth. Arzaak nodded wearily, sitting on the ground beside her. As the adrenaline of battle began to ebb away, the Tiefling winced as he, too, tended to a gash inflicted by the other giant rat.
----------------------------------------
Arzaak rolls 1d8+2: 7.
Arzaak recovers 7 HP from the short rest.
* Arzaak HP: 10/10
----------------------------------------
Kali rolls 1d12+1: 11.
Kali recovers 11 HP from the short rest.
* Kali HP: 13/13
***
"I hear a voice", Arzaak said, breaking the silence.
"It sounds...human? Or something along that line?", Kali replied, uncertain.
"What do you say? Should you go take a look?", Arzaak asked.
"We're not here to play hero", Kali said, coldly. "It could very well be a trap set by whomever spread the rats in this forest".
After a while, the voice subsided.
"Let's get going", Kali said, taking the lead through the narrow glades. "If we tread carefully, we might find the source of the voice without them finding us first".
"I found you already", the voice said. "And I'm glad I'm not in danger, or it would have been the end of poor ol'me. You guys are trouble! My old friends would never hear a cry for help and simply ignore it".
"Who's there?", Kali roared, startled, her lilac eyes brimming with rage. "Show yourself, you coward!".
"Wow wow wow, a coward, me? I'm stuck here on this tree, defenseless and asking for help, and you, who refused to come for my aid because you were AFRAID, are calling me a coward?".
"Are you calling me a coward?", Kali shouted, axe in hand, too enraged to grasp the situation.
"Calm down, Kali", Arzaak said, having already spotted the source of the voice. "You are not arguing with someone. You're arguing with something".
"Hmpf. At least someone here's more brains than brawl. I refuse to introduce myself first. State your names, you dolts!".
"Arzaak. That's Kali. You are...a talking sword? A spiteful and rude sword?".
"An intelligent sword, yes! If you were in my shoes, you would understand. Normally, I would just kick you in the nuts and go on my way, but things got complicated and I might need a little hand now. Be grateful! The great Megalomagna is asking you dimwits for help!".
"Do you think we can sell it?", Arzaak asked Kali, removing Megalomagna from the tree trunk.
"YOU. DON'T. SELL. MEGALOMAGNA!", the sword roared with a thunderous voice.
"That sword is trouble", Kali said, her barbarian instincts kicking in. "Leave it there and let's go finish our mission".
"Wait", Arzaak said, examining Megalomagna. The sword had an immaculate blade and its hilt was encrusted with precious jewels worth more than 20.000 gp.
"If I keep you, what do I gain in return?", Arzaak asked.
"Power", Megalomagna stated. "Also responsibility. But mostly power".
"I can wield basic weapons like short swords and daggers, but you are a long sword. I'm not sure I see an advantage here", Arzaak reasoned.
"You don't have to worry about that. I'm highly adaptable, so even a numbskull can wield me with no penalties. You can even use your proficiency bonus. Unless you're a wizard".
"Penalties? Proficiency bonus?", Arzaak asked, tilting his head in confusion.
"Just take me with you, okay?", Megalomagna said, impatient.
After a couple of long seconds staring at the blade, Arzaak made the most important decision of his life.
"All right, I'm taking you with me. But you can't keep insulting me or anyone I'm partying with".
"I'll see what I can do", Megalomagna said. "By the way, what is this place?".
"High Forest of Faerûn", Arzaak replied. "We're on a giant rat hunting quest".
"High Forest? The elven playground?", Megalomagna said with a chuckle. "What a poor excuse, Torm".
"What are you talking about?", Arzaak asked, even more confused.
"If you're taking the sword, at least tell it to be quiet", Kali grumbled. "There's an infestation going on and we can't handle a dozen giant rats at once".
"I could, some time ago", Megalomagna said. "But I'll let you handle it this time".
Decided not to pay any more attention to the nonstop blabbering sword, Kali moved forward through the narrow glades.
"So, how many giant rats do you guys have to kill?", Megalomagna asked.
"I don't know. I guess until the area is free of the infestation", Arzaak replied.
"You guys are level 1 alright", Megalomagna mocked. "Do you even know how easy those things can multiply? With such abundant food sources, lack of predators and even the magical influence of the forest itself could contribute to their proliferation. The two of you would probably keep fighting forever, and the rats would still be there".
"What do you suggest? That we ask the high elves for help?", Kali asked, irritated. "A Drow and a Tiefling?".
"High elves are not the only things you can find here, little grasshopper", Megalomagna said, not worried in the least of how insulting it was sounding.
"Stop", Arzaak whispered. "I think I hear something".
"Battle noises", Kali noted. "The rats are onto something".
"We need to go!", Megalomagna exclaimed. "Someone might need our help".
"It's better for us to wait until the battle is finished and kill the rats while they're wounded", Arzaak retorted. Kali nodded in agreement.
"You guys don't get it", Megalomagna said, annoyed. "We HAVE to go. Here's the deal, either we go, or I'll scream so loud that twenty generations of giant rats will come for you".
"I told you the sword was trouble", Kali said between gritted teeth.
"I could just drop you here and be on my way", Arzaak told the sword. "You can scream as loud as you want then".
"Trust me, you're not gonna regret if you do as I say", Megalomagna said, starting to get worried about its future. "If I get us into trouble, you can drop me anywhere and I'll never ask anything from you again".
Arzaak contemplated the sword. Although Megalomagna seemed whimsical and hard to deal with, the Tiefling was a novice adventurer and had just found an intelligent sword. His curiosity and thirst for knowledge had become too great for him to say no.
"Fine, let's see what's going on there", Arzaak said, defeated.
"You're an idiot!", Kali said.
As the Party searched for the source of the battle noises, they spotted a tiny creature reminiscent of a miniature dragon. It boasted fine scales, sharp horns and teeth, with two small wings protruding from its back and a long tail—perhaps even longer than its own body—complete with a stinger on its tip.
The small dragon appeared cornered, with three giant rats viciously lunging at it, while a fourth rat lay sprawled on the ground, seemingly either dead or unconscious.
“We must make sure that creature is not killed by the r—”
“Stop it”, Arzaak said, interrupting Megalomagna. “Don’t act like you’re the leader of this Party. We get to decide what to do and when”.
“It’s on you, then. Letting a fey creature die because you’re too lazy to act will be your fault and yours only”.
“A fey creature, you say?”, Arzaak said, getting ready to cast a spell on the rats.
“Maybe the sword is right this time”, Kali said. “We have to eliminate the rats first, then we’ll see what to do about the little dragon. The ultimate reason for this quest is to protect the forest and its creatures, after all”.
“Good! Now go get them, tigers!”, Megalomagna exclaimed, to the Party members chagrin.
----------------------------------------
4 giant rats (9 HP, 7 HP, 5 HP, 03/09 HP) and a Pseudodragon (7HP) have appeared.
INITIATIVE ROLL
* Giant Rat 3: 21
* Giant Rat 1: 16
* Arzaak: 16
* Pseudodragon: 14
* Giant Rat 2: 10
* Kali: 5
* Giant Rat 4: unconscious
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 3 attacks Kali. Rolled 19, 9. Hit for 1d4+2: 5 damage.
Giant Rat 1 attacks Arzaak. Rolled 20, 4. Critical hit for 2d4+2: 8 damage.
* Kali HP: 0/13
Kali is unconscious.
----------------------------------------
“We’re in trouble, huh”, Megalomagna noted with a flat tone.
“Yes, we are!”, Arzaak exclaimed, exasperated by seeing her Party member fall.
“Don’t worry, the little dragon will help us”, Megalomagna replied.
“I hope you’re right, for your own good!”, Arzaak retorted.
Arzaak flanks Giant Rat 2 and casts Eldritch Blast with advantage. Rolled 13, 13. Hit for 1d10: 2 damage.
* Giant Rat 2 HP: 05/07
----------------------------------------
Pseudodragon attacks Giant Rat 2 with sting. Rolled 14. Hit for 1d4+2: 6 damage.
Giant Rat 2 has been pierced through its brain by the pseudodragon's sting.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 2
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 3 attacks Pseudodragon. Rolled 1, 6. Missed.
Giant Rat 1 attacks Arzaak. Rolled 17, 20. Critical Hit for 2d4+2: 6 damage.
* Arzaak HP: 04/10
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Giant Rat 1. Rolled 13. Hit for 1d10: 10 damage.
Giant Rat 1 has been exterminated.
----------------------------------------
Pseudodragon attacks Giant Rat 3 with sting. Rolled 11. Hit for 1d4+2: 5 damage.
Giant Rat 3 must make a Constitution (DC 11) saving throw. Rolled 6. Failed.
Giant Rat 3 has fallen unconscious due to the poison.
----------------------------------------
“Now I understand why that other rat is laying down but still breathing. It has been poisoned by the dragon”, Arzaak observed.
“Better take the opportunity and kill them before they wake up”, Megalomagna suggested.
“That’s gonna be the first time I’ll put you to good use, then”, Arzaak said, holding Megalomagna and stabbing both giant rats, killing them instantly.
----------------------------------------
Kali makes a saving throw vs. death. Rolled 10. Succeeded.
----------------------------------------
The Party has emerged victorious, defeating the four giant rats. Each Party member earns 200 XP for the defeated monsters in this encounter, plus 250 XP for saving a pseudodragon.
* Arzaak has accumulated 620 XP in total.
* Arzaak has advanced from level 1 to level 2.
* Arzaak’s HP increased by 7 (max 17).
* Arzaak has learned the Eldritch Invocations Agonizing Blast and Repelling Blast.
* Arzaak has learned the spell Arms of Hadar.
----------------------------------------
* Kali has accumulated 620 XP in total.
* Kali has advanced from level 1 to level 2.
* Kali’s HP increased by 8 (max 21).
* Kali has learned the abilities Reckless Attack and Danger Sense.
***
“We need to give Kali first aid”, Arzaak said, as the pseudodragon watched him carefully patch her up.
----------------------------------------
Arzaak makes a Wisdom (DC 10) check. Rolled 15. Successful.
Kali has been stabilized.
----------------------------------------
Megalomagna has advanced from level 1 to level 2.
* Wielder's Strength increases by 1 as long as he/she is attuned to Megalomagna. Arzaak's Strength ability score adjusted to 9 (-1).
* +1 bonus to attack and damage rolls unlocked.
----------------------------------------
"Now what?", Arzaak asked, confused. "Can't go on with our quest when Kali is in this condition".
"Ask the Pseudodragon for help", Megalomagna suggested. "It seems grateful to you for, you know, saving its life".
"Can you understand me?", Arzaak asked, nervous. "I'm Arzaak. I'm a warlock and my mistress, if I should call her that, is an Archfey. Does that make us friends?".
The pseudodragon stared into the golden orbs Arzaak had instead of human eyes and made a bird-like chirp. Even without hearing any voices, Arzaak understood the words "food", "safety", and "companion".
"You want food and safety...if I give you that, you will accompany me. Is that right?", Arzaak mumbled.
The pseudodragon, then, flew towards Arzaak's shoulder and landed there, emitting a rasping purr that resembled what cats do when they are happy.
"I guess I've found myself a new friend!", Arzaak declared, happiness clear in his expression.
"We’ve found it", Megalomagna corrected. "You wouldn't have done it by yourself, remember that".
"All right, all right", Arzaak conceded. "I'm still not sure you are not cursed, though".
"Cursed...you have no idea what a cursed item can do, ram-head", Megalomagna hissed.
"Whatever. Now, little dragon friend, do you know someone or something that can help us heal my dark-skinned party member here?", Arzaak asked the pseudodragon. The creature made a sound similar to a dragon roar but higher-pitched, and the word "food" popped in the Tiefling's mind again.
"Right. Let me see... what do pseudodragons eat again?", Arzaak thought aloud, searching through his backpack.
"Meat" was the answer that resonated in his mind.
"Meat? You wouldn't, for instance, accept…giant rat meat?”, he asked.
The pseudodragon hissed angrily.
"All right, all right, I have some jerked beef here, come on and take it!", Arzaak said, holding it towards the pseudodragon on his shoulder. The creature bit into the jerky so eagerly that it almost tore his hand off, indicating it had likely been days without food.
Once it finished eating, the pseudodragon gave out a purr of satisfaction and relief, and even touched Arzaak's cheek with its draconic snout. Then, it looked around as if searching for something.
When it seemed to have locked onto something, the tiny dragon gave out another high-pitched roar.
"Did you find something?", Arzaak asked.
"It's reaching out to other fey telepathically. Just a guess", Megalomagna said.
"A Drow and a Tiefling? Are you out of your mind? Why would you even want to help them?", a thin voice that seemed to be coming out of nowhere suddenly said.
Kali and Arzaak jumped, startled, but the pseudodragon did not. Megalomagna couldn't care less.
"Tiefling. Friend. Rats. Dead", the pseudodragon conveyed to the unseen agent.
"So he killed the giant rats to protect you, is that correct?".
The little dragon responded with a positive roar.
Gradually, the outline of a tiny, 2-feet tall humanoid with elven features and delicate dragonfly wings emerged. Arzaak's extensive studies enabled him to identify the creature as a sprite, one of the various fairy species tasked with guarding the forest and repelling intruders.
Before saying anything, the sprite quickly touched Arzaak's forehead.
----------------------------------------
Arzaak must perform a Charisma saving throw (DC 10). Rolled 13. Saved.
----------------------------------------
"You don't seem evil. Instead, you seem...nonchalant. Aloof. Indifferent", the sprite observed.
"Yes, all that. Life's rough when you don't fit right in", Arzaak said.
"What about the Drow? What is that evil woman doing with you?", the sprite interrogated.
"She is not evil. She's just like me—an egg put in the wrong basket. She is kind of individualistic, but she's a barbarian, and a survivor. Life has probably been rougher on her than it has on me", Arzaak explained.
“And what do you want? I’m having enough trouble with this giant rat infestation already”, the sprite said, bluntly.
"Our interests align", Arzaak said. "But I am injured, and my friend here is in very bad shape. We need a safe place to rest until we have recovered enough to return to battle".
“What do you mean with ‘our interests align?’”, the sprite questioned, suspicious.
“Our guild has issued a request for us to deal with the rat infestation”, Arzaak explained. “Our intent is to eliminate them and return to the guild to collect our reward”.
“Reward, huh…”, the sprite mused. “Come with me. I will lend you shelter, but only because a fey creature of this forest has asked”, the tiny man said, nodding towards the pseudodragon with his head.
“Thanks. We are grateful for your help”, Arzaak said.
***
* Arzaak and Kali have taken a long rest.
* Arzaak is now attuned to Megalomagna.
* Arzaak’s Strength ability score increased to 9 (modifier -1).
* Arzaak has memorized the spells Hex and Arms of Hadar.
* Arzaak and Kali’s HP completely restored.
----------------------------------------
“Owww, my head is killing me”, Kali said, slowly getting up. As soon as she realized she was inside an enormous tree trunk, she assumed a defensive position, even forgetting to pick up her axe.
“Who are you, and what do you want?”, the barbarian Drow demanded. “Show yourself and I’ll snap you in half with my own hands!”.
“You are just as your friend described”, the sprite observed, its voice emanating from thin air, betraying its invisible presence. “A barbarian through and through.”
“I take pride in what I am”, she retorted, defiant, even without knowing where to look. “Now reveal yourself, or I swear I'll fell this tree—and you with it!”
“Don’t treat our host like that, Kali”, Arzaak lightheartedly admonished the barbarian woman as he stepped into the spacious hollow of the tree trunk. “Ziggy is a proud protector of the forest, and taking this tree down will make you their enemy”.
“Ziggy? Host?”, Kali asked, visibly confused.
“I have reached an agreement with your Tiefling friend”, Ziggy said, pointing his tiny sword at Arzaak. “As long as you two find the root of the giant rats infestation, I will lend you a hand. A little hand”.
“You three, you mean”, Megalomagna interjected. “I am responsible for these two. Nice to meet you, little sprite. I’m Megalomagna. You have surely heard about me”.
“No I haven’t”, Ziggy said, curtly. “Sentient weapons are always trouble. And why are you with a spellcaster? Are you stupid?”.
“YOU ARE STUPID!”, Megalomagna raged. “I have my reasons, okay? I know this guy is weak and dumb and can’t do much on his own, but he’ll grow stronger in time. With me by his side, he will. You will, right, ram-head?”.
"Are you sure you wanna keep the sword?", Ziggy insisted.
"It's a one of a kind of weapon—a sentient sword. It's the dream of every arcane arts enthusiast or researcher of magic. Finding it was a miracle by itself already, and it even helped us save a pseudodragon that seems to enjoy my company. I don't really have a reason to dump it".
"Well said, Hairzak", Megalomagna praised.
"It's Arzaak. Now stop insulting me. We have a deal".
"Sure, sure. Now to the rat problem. How do you like rat burgerssss?", Megalomagna asked, emphasizing the 's' pronunciation.
"We are wasting time", Kali said, completely recovered from her wounds. "Sprite, you can become invisible. There's no way you or your kind know nothing about the infestation. Fey creatures have eyes everywhere in a forest".
"You are right. We do have an information network. But our enemy is elusive, so little information could be gathered. All we know is that some of our people felt an ominous aura during the night. And a unicorn has been killed".
"What?", Arzaak exclaimed, perplexed. "How could a unicorn be killed? Only the most wicked fiends would do such a horrible thing".
"That coming from a red guy with horns and a tail is funny, to say the least. If you had a pitchfork, you could start selling devil pacts. It's decided! I'll fetch you a pitchfork".
"Please stop talking", Ziggy asked Megalomagna with an unamused face.
"Where's the corpse?", Kali asked suddenly, turning everyone's attention to her. "Can I see it?".
Ziggy stared at her with squinting eyes.
"You can, but you don't have much time left. Unicorns are celestial fey, so their corpses fade into light not long after their deaths. And touching the corpse is absolutely forbidden! The gods will smite you if you stain its pure-white coat with your dirty fingers".
"Let's go, then", Kali pushed. "Ziggy, show us the unicorn. Quickly".
"Lady Drow is taking charge, huh?", Megalomagna teased.
"I don't care", Arzaak retorted. "Stop distracting us. This quest took an unexpected turn and we have to be on guard".
"Look, unicorns die all the time, okay? You don't have to be so dramatic", Megalomagna said.
"Whose side are you on?", Arzaak inquired. "You help me save a pseudodragon but doesn't give a damn about a unicorn?".
"It died before you could do anything. I'm just being rational here. Someone has to", the sword replied.
"Enough blabbering", Kali interjected. "Let's go".
***
Upon a bed of exquisite flowers, the unicorn's body rested, encircled by butterflies every shade of the rainbow. The sight of the majestic but lifeless steed, a true symbol of protection and loyalty, caused the adventurers a strong impression and filled their hearts with inexplicable sorrow.
"This is unforgivable", Kali murmured, surprising Arzaak.
"I didn't expect you to care this much", he told her.
"As a hunter, I understand the necessity of killing for survival. But this was not for sustenance; it was an unjustifiable act of cruelty", she explained, her tone tinged with anger.
"Who would derive pleasure from killing a unicorn? A demon, perhaps?" Arzaak speculated.
"Demons are too busy fighting the Blood War", Megalomagna interjected. "The culprit responsible is likely of much smaller significance".
"I need to examine the body", Kali declared. "I’m allowed to do so, right?".
"Just don't touch it with your filthy hands. Or feet. Or nose. And don't breathe on it", Ziggy demanded.
Kali suppressed a growl of frustration, focusing instead on her examination of the unicorn's remains.
The unicorn's body bore the marks of a fierce battle with its killer. Its pristine horn bore a conspicuous crack, and its beautiful, silky white mane lay torn and unkempt. Bruises marred its white hide, and streaks of dark red blood stained its coat.
These wounds were clear evidence of a serious fight, yet unicorns are known for their formidable strength, making it difficult to fathom how such a majestic creature could fall just from that.
----------------------------------------
Kali makes an Intelligence ability check: 16. Succeeded.
----------------------------------------
Upon careful examination, Kali's experience as a hunter added to her cunning insight helped her catch onto something unusual.
"Here", she said, pointing to the unicorn's neck. "They're really hard to see now that any swelling has subsided, but there are two small incisions that don't seem to have been made by accident".
"Now that you mention, they really look unusual...like a bat's bite", Ziggy remarked.
"A bat would never be able to kill an unicorn. Not even a swarm would", Arzaak pondered.
"A vampire would", Megalomagna noted.
Silence enveloped the area, and a chill ran down their spines. Luckily, the sun was up in the sky and, as long as it remained there, they were protected from the powerful undead. But the menacing threat of a vampire was not something the adventurers could ignore.
"We have to get out of here", Kali declared. "A vampire is well beyond the scope of our mission. At our current strength, even an army of adventurers would be nothing but an endless food supply. I don't plan on dying on my first mission".
"But you promised you would help us with the rat infestation!", Ziggy complained.
"Giant rats, sure, we can deal with those. But had we knew there was a vampire pulling the strings, we wouldn't even have accepted the quest. Fighting a vampire is out of the question, do you understand?", Kali said, coldly.
As soon as Kali stepped out of the tree trunk, five giant rats surrounded her.
"In broad daylight? This is bad, really bad", Kali snarled. "Arzaak, I think I'll need some backup here".
"On it!", Arzaak replied, the pseudodragon and Ziggy coming along.
----------------------------------------
5 giant rats (7, 8, 3, 9, 9 HP) have appeared.
Kali has disadvantage on attack rolls and Wisdom (Perception) skill checks while exposed to sunlight.
INITIATIVE ROLL:
* Giant Rat 1: 20+2
* Giant Rat 5: 18+2
* Giant Rat 2: 17+2
* Ziggy: 10+4
* Giant Rat 4: 12+2
* Giant Rat 3: 11+2
* Kali: 7+2
* Pseudodragon: 6+2
* Arzaak: 1
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 1 attacks Pseudodragon. Rolled 9, 19. Hit for 1d4+2: 6 damage.
* Pseudodragon HP: 01/07
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 5 attacks Arzaak. Rolled 20, 3. Critical hit for 2d4+2: 6 damage.
* Arzaak HP: 11/17
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 2 attacks Kali. Rolled 9, 17. Hit for 1d4+2: 5 damage.
* Kali HP: 16/21
----------------------------------------
Ziggy attacks Giant Rat 4 with short bow. Rolled 11. Hit for 1 damage.
Giant Rat 4 must make a Constitution saving throw (DC 10). Rolled 2. Failed. Giant Rat 4 fell unconscious for 1 minute (10 rounds).
Giant Rat 4 is incapacitated.
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 3 attacks Kali. Rolled 13, 8. Hit for 1d4+2: 3 damage.
* Kali HP: 13/21
----------------------------------------
Kali activates Rage as a bonus action (+2 bonus to damage, resistance against physical damage for 10 turns). Rolled 20, 5. Missed.
Pseudodragon attacks Giant Rat 3 with sting. Rolled 13. Hit for 1d4+2: 6 damage.
Giant Rat 3 has been punctured through its bowels and died.
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Giant Rat 1. Rolled 5. Hit for 1d10+5: 9 damage.
Giant Rat 1 has been pulverized.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 2
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 5 attacks Arzaak. Rolled 17. Hit for 1d4+2: 5 damage.
* Arzaak HP: 06/17
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 2 attacks Kali. Rolled 2. Missed.
Ziggy attacks Giant Rat 5. Rolled 12. Hit for 1 damage.
Giant Rat 5 must make a Constitution saving throw (DC 10). Rolled 19. Saved.
* Giant Rat 5 HP: 08/09
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 4 is incapacitated.
----------------------------------------
Kali attacks Giant Rat 2. Rolled 1, 3. Missed.
Pseudodragon attacks Giant Rat 2. Rolled 3. Missed.
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Giant Rat 2. Rolled 17. Hit for 1d10+5: 6 damage.
* Giant Rat 2 HP: 02/08
----------------------------------------
ROUND 3
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 5 attacks Arzaak. Rolled 11. Hit for 1d4+2: 5 damage.
* Arzaak HP: 01/17
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 2 attacks Kali. Rolled 20. Critical hit for 2d4+2: 7 / 2: 3 damage.
* Kali HP: 10/21
----------------------------------------
Ziggy attacks Giant Rat 5. Rolled 12. Hit for 1 damage.
Giant Rat 5 must make a Constitution saving throw (DC 10). Rolled 5. Failed.
* Giant Rat 5 HP: 07/09
Giant Rat 5 has fallen unconscious for 1 minute (10 rounds).
Giant Rat 4 is incapacitated.
----------------------------------------
Kali attacks Giant Rat 2. Rolled 17, 2. Missed.
Pseudodragon attacks Giant Rat 2. Rolled 19. Hit for 1d4+2: 4 damage.
Giant Rat 2 has been stung to death.
----------------------------------------
"The remaining rats are asleep", Arzaak observed. "Let's kill them quickly".
Arzaak and Kali mercilessly butchered the remaining giant rats.
----------------------------------------
The Party has emerged victorious, defeating the five giant rats. Each Party member earns 250 XP for the defeated monsters in this encounter.
* Arzaak has accumulated 870 XP in total.
* Kali has accumulated 870 XP in total.
***
"This ambush is not a coincidence”, Kali stated, annoyed by the strong sunlight. "The vampire is trying to weaken us so he can finish the job when the sun is set".
"Hard to believe a simple quest to kill a bunch of giant rats would suddenly turn into this", Arzaak vented.
"You guys aren't making it any easier", Megalomagna remarked. "A Tiefling warlock that's too weak to deal good damage with me, and a barbarian Drow that can't land a blow during the day".
"You are free to go find another Party", Kali retorted. "You're not making any difference anyway".
"If I were a barbarian and you were a sword, I doubt you could do more than me", Megalomagna said. "Actually that gave me an idea for future chap—I mean adventures".
"Whatever", Arzaak interjected. "Kali is right about us having to get out of here. Vampires cannot enter places without being invited, right? There's a settlement close by. Ziggy, can you take us there?".
"I actually can, but what for?", Ziggy said, irritated. "You're going to take shelter for the night while another fey gets killed, then what? We repeat until all guardians of this forest are killed?".
"We are novice adventurers", Kali declared. "Fighting a vampire is a lost battle and you know it".
"Then find a way to bring your people here! You have other humanoid friends, right?", Ziggy asked, desperate.
"Didn't you hear what these dolts said?", Megalomagna addressed Ziggy. "They're newbies. How do you expect them to reach out for stronger friends when they don't have any?".
"You're not helping, Megalomagna", Arzaak remarked.
“Not my problem”, Megalomagna replied. “Look! Dusk is about to come and here you are talking nonsense!”.
“YOU are talking nonsense!”, Arzaak snapped.
“You guys are the worst…”, Ziggy muttered. "Fine. I'll take you to the city. But you better come up with a plan quickly!".
"Fine", Arzaak nodded. "Let's get a move on before the night falls".
As the party ventured deeper into the dense forest, they stumbled upon a small clearing. There, clad in battered armor adorned with symbols of Moradin—the dwarven god of creation, forging and protection—a dwarf with a grizzled beard, streaked with blood, was locked in a struggle with three giant rats, their feral snarls filling the air.
The dwarf, armed with a warhammer and a shield, was fighting valiantly, but the vermin seemed to overwhelm him with their sheer numbers and agility.
Even after spotting the Party, the dwarf proudly kept focused on the battle, stubbornly refusing to ask for help.
"That dwarf is gonna die", Kali stated with cold precision.
"What do we do?", Arzaak asked, hesitating.
----------------------------------------
The party must decide whether to intervene and assist Barur Goldheart in defeating the giant rats or to leave him to die alone.
----------------------------------------
"What are you talking about? Of course we will help him!", Megalomagna exclaimed.
"Wait, what?", Arzaak interjected. "Since when do you decide things here?".
"Look here, ram-head. That dwarf is a cleric. He is certainly a good guy and I'm 99...98% sure that he's here for the vampire, risking his life as you cowards make a run for it. It's time to make a decision! You can't be an adventurer without taking risks!", Megalomagna said.
"But we're still wounded from last battle!", Arzaak argumented in his defense.
"JUST DO IT!", Megalomagna roared. "Trust me!".
"Dammit...dammit!!!", Arzaak grumbled, then turned to the pseudodragon.
"Hey buddy. If you can contact a friend telepathically, now it would be a great time to do so", Arzaak said. Then, his expression hardened as he let out a battle cry and charged towards the giant rats.
----------------------------------------
Three giant rats (9 HP, 6 HP, 6 HP) have appeared.
Kali has disadvantage on attack rolls and Wisdom (Perception) skill checks while exposed to sunlight.
INITIATIVE ROLL:
* Giant Rat 2: 20
* Arzaak: 19
* Kali: 17
* Giant Rat 1: 14
* Ziggy: 11
* Pseudodragon: 11
* Giant Rat 3: 6
* Barur Goldheart: 2
----------------------------------------
Megalomagna's Mark of Torm has activated. Until the battle is over, the user will benefit from the following effects:
* Advantage on attack and saving throws:
* Aura of protection from evil 10-feet around the user;
* Deals 2d10 extra radiant damage to evil or summoned creatures upon contact;
* All evil or summoned creatures present when the Mark of Torm activates must make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 15) or be frightened until the end of Megalomagna's wielder next turn. A frightened creature has disadvantage on ability checks and attack rolls while the source of its fear is within line of sight. The creature can’t willingly move closer to the source of its fear.
* The wielder feels compelled to attack with Megalomagna (two-handed) over any other means.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
Giant Rat 2 wisdom saving throw: 7. Failed. Giant Rat 2 is frightened.
Giant Rat 2 attacks Arzaak with disadvantage. Rolled 3. Missed.
Arzaak attacks Giant Rat 2 with Megalomagna. Rolled 12, 8. Hit for 1d10-1 plus 2d10 radiant dmg: 13 total dmg.
* Giant Rat 2 HP: -07/06
Giant Rat 2 has been cut into thin slices of giant rat meat.
----------------------------------------
Kali attacks Giant Rat 1. Rolled 14, 19. Hit for 1d12+3: 9 dmg.
* Giant Rat 1 HP: 00/09
Giant Rat 1 has been butchered.
----------------------------------------
Ziggy attacks Giant Rat 3 with short bow. Rolled 7. Missed.
Pseudodragon is concentrated and cannot attack.
Giant Rat 3 attacks Arzaak with disadvantage. Rolled 3, 19. Missed.
Barur attacks Giant Rat 3 with warhammer. Rolled 1. Missed.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 2
----------------------------------------
Arzaak attacks Giant Rat 3 with advantage. Rolled 20, 3. Critical hit for 2d10-1 plus 2d10 radiant damage: 20 damage total.
* Giant Rat 3 HP: -14/06
Giant Rat 3 has been eviscerated by Megalomagna.
----------------------------------------
The Party has emerged victorious, defeating the three giant rats. Each Party member earns 150 XP for the defeated monsters in this encounter, plus 300 XP for saving Barur Goldheart. Arzaak earns extra 500 XP for activating Megalomagna's Mark of Torm.
* Arzaak has accumulated 870 + 150 + 300 + 500 = 1.820 XP in total.
* Arzaak has advanced from level 2 to level 3.
* Arzaak’s HP increased by 7 (max 24).
* Arzaak has learned the spell Cloud of Daggers.
* Arzaak has learned the feature Pact of the Chain and the spell Find Familiar.
* Upon reaching level 3 as a Tiefling, Arzaak can cast Hellish Rebuke once per day as a 2nd-level spell.
----------------------------------------
* Kali has accumulated 870 + 150 + 300 = 1.320 XP in total.
* Kali has advanced from level 2 to level 3.
* Kali’s HP increased by 8 (max 29).
* Kali has learned the feature Path of the Totem Warrior (Wolf).
* Kali's canines will grow longer and sharper, resembling wolf fangs, and her sense of smell will improve considerably. When tracking other creatures, her Wisdom (Survival) proficiency bonus is doubled.
* Kali has gained the ability to cast the Beast Sense and Speak with Animals spells, but only as rituals.
* While Kali is raging, her Party has advantage on melee attack rolls against any creature within 5 feet of her that is hostile to her. The spirit of the wolf makes Kali a leader of hunters.
* Upon reaching level 3 as a Drow, Kali can cast the Faerie Fire spell once per day.
----------------------------------------
Megalomagna has advanced from level 2 to level 3.
* Wielder's Strength increases by 2 as long as he/she is attuned to Megalomagna. Arzaak’s Strength ability score increased to 10 (modifier 0).
* New extraordinary ability unlocked - Vengeful Reaction. Every time a creature hits Megalomagna's wielder with a melee attack, its adaptive nature and cunning perception allow the wielder to immediately attack back as a reaction.
* Primary ability unlocked – Polyglot. Megalomagna can speak, read texts and maps in any language.
----------------------------------------
“I dun’t remember askin' fer help”, the dwarf rasped, his voice weak from exhaustion. “I could very well handle those vermin alone”.
“Proud and stubborn. A Dwarf is always easy to recognize”, Kali said, great axe in hand just in case he deems her an enemy.
“A Drow? And a Tieflin’?”, the Dwarf asked, intrigued. "Why did ye save a Dwarf like me? What are yer real intentions? Tell me the truth before I smite both of ye!".
“I don’t know how to answer that question”, Arzaak said. “Let me just say I was…convinced by someone to help you”.
“Not the best reason to help someone, but still worth somethin'", the Dwarf said, not very convinced. “I’m Barur Goldheart, cleric of Moradin”.
Upon finishing that sentence, the cleric fell to his knee, exhausted.
“You are not this wounded just from fighting a bunch of rats”, Kali noted. “What happened to you?”.
The proud and stout dwarf made an effort to stand back up.
"I'm a 'ermit, not a fighter. As far as I knew, these parts o' the forest were safe, bein' the eternal restin' place for many o' my kin. Trolls would prefer swampier grounds, and beasts from this forest ain't that dangerous. I've come to this place to meditate and commune with nature but, fer whatever reason, a bloodsuckin' vampire ambushed me. I tried to turn it and even traded blows with it, but the damn undead was too much fer me. I only survived 'cause a unicorn charged towards the vampire and drove it away, but by that time, I was already in this sorry state".
“The unicorn!”, Arzaak exclaimed.
“The puzzle is starting to come together”, Megalomagna said, startling Barur.
"Is that a talkin' sword? Who crafted that weapon? What's it doin' with a spellcaster?", the dwarf asked.
“Why can’t people just say ‘intelligent sword’? Is it that hard to do? Don’t you have to be at least a little intelligent to be able to talk?”, Megalomagna complained.
“Parrots talk all the time”, Arzaak mocked.
“I’m not a Sword-Parrot! I forbid you from calling me that!”, Megalomagna retorted.
“I wasn’t thinking of calling you that, but that’s actually a very fitting nickname for you. Who gave it to you?”, the Tiefling asked, curious.
“Not of your business”, Megalomagna jabbed.
"The sun has set", Kali remarked, her tone tinged with urgency. “How long do you plan on spouting nonsense? Until the vampire comes and hunts us down like sheep?”, she asked, her eyes blazing with an anger that reflected the growing fear gnawing at her.
Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author's preferred platform and support their work!
“The sun…”, Arzaak muttered, his brows furrowing deeply as a bead of sweat trickled down his temple. “We need to find shelter, quickly!”.
"You can't hide from me", an ominous, deep voice said.
"He's here", Barur stated.
Then, a swirling cloud of mist materialized in front of the adventurers, gradually taking on the form of a man. This figure bore sharp, feral features, his skin unnaturally pale, and he was dressed in ancient, albeit regal, attire.
"You have been meddling with forces better left alone", the vampire intoned, menacingly. “I am forced to teach you all a lesson”.
“Dun’t look into his eyes!”, Barur alerted. “He can’t charm you if he can’t look you in the eye!”.
“Maybe I should teach you first, nosy dwarf”, the vampire raged, lunging towards the cleric.
Just as the undead reached out to grapple Barur, a delicate, lightly tanned hand emerged from a tree, seizing Barur by the collar and yanking him towards the bark. Upon touching the tree, the dwarf appeared to vanish, as if passing through it.
“What’s going on?”, Arzaak asked, confused.
“How dare you toy with me?”, the vampire growled. “I am going to destroy this forest and everything that lives within it!”.
Before he could attempt to grapple anyone else, other hands emerged from the surrounding trees and seized the remaining members of the Party, including Ziggy and the Pseudodragon. In a flash, they appeared inside the trunk of another enormous tree, but this time they were surrounded by five outstandingly beautiful female humanoid creatures.
Startled and bewildered, the adventurers could barely believe their own eyes. The creatures possessed exquisite, finely chiseled features reminiscent of an elf maiden's, complete with high cheekbones. Some had eyes of amber, while others boasted dark green hues. Their skin was lightly tanned, and their hair shimmered green like oak leaves. All of them were clothed in loose, simple garments, the same color as their hair.
“Dryads”, Kali observed, squinting her eyes.
“Really?”, Arzaak exclaimed, unable to hide his excitement. “I can’t believe I’m standing next to not only one, but several dryads!”.
“Hello, young Tiefling”, one of the dryads said. “I am Elowen. You are quite handsome, aren’t you?”.
----------------------------------------
Arzaak must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be magically charmed. Rolled 16. Saved.
----------------------------------------
“She really tried to charm you, huh”, Megalomagna told Arzaak. “You got quite lucky this time. Or not—depends on what you wanted to do with your life. I don’t care either way, just to be clear”.
“Really? I didn’t notice. Anyway, I don’t have time to be fooling around. As far as I understand, these dryads have saved us from the vampire, so I’m glad if anything”, Arzaak stated, evidently relieved.
“This is most fortunate, but also very strange”, Barur said. “I never imagined dryads could ‘tree stride’ other beings”.
“Elué Dualen has given us a temporary boon”, Cerelia, another dryad, said.
"Who?", Arzaak asked, clueless.
"Alustriel Silverhand", Kali answered. "The dryads call her by her elvish name".
"Sometimes I forget you're an elf too", Arzaak noted.
"I'm a barbarian", Kali retorted, irritated, turning her attention to the beautiful creatures of the forest. "Dryads, I'm grateful for your coming to our rescue, but I hope you didn't do that expecting us to pay the favor by slaying the vampire".
"That monster is too strong and elusive for our kin to deal with", Lómelindë, a short-haired dryad with a skin that resembled light-colored wood, said.
"A unicorn has died trying to protect one of you", Thalion, another dryad, declared. "It is only fair that you exact revenge on its behalf".
"Can't you understand how much stronger a vampire is compared to us?", Kali interjected. "Our mission here was to slay giant rats. You must have someone strong enough in this forest. An elven warrior, a druid, a paladin, whatever!".
"Those who are strong don't want to come to these distant lands just to kill an undead menace and leave without any treasure. Those who are weak don't want to risk their lives. It isn’t as easy as you surmise", Aelinor, the last dryad, explained.
"If you don't slay the vampire now, it will keep on killing every living being in this forest, eventually turning all humanoid victims into his spawns", Elowen lamented. "It's final goal is unknown to us, but finding out won't matter if we are all dead!".
"We must develop a plan", Barur interjected. "If we're not strong enough to defeat the undead head-on, we can try to banish it from this forest, and keep it away until we are".
"The question is...how?", Arzaak asked. Then, he felt his head prickle a little. It was the Pseudodragon calling out to Arzaak telepathically, transmitting a single word: “pact”.
"Pact?", Arzaak mumbled. "Funny...I do have a feeling my mistress bestowed upon me a gift that can call a familiar. Do you want to become my familiar?", the Tiefling asked, to what the Pseudodragon nodded positively.
"It seems little draggy likes you", Megalomagna remarked. "You should accept it. Pseudodragons are really nice to keep around. But they have great appetite, I'll tell you. This one even tried to chew on my gems when you weren’t looking, like he's a gold dragon or something. The nerve!".
"Quiet, Megalomagna. You have to stop trying to decide things for me. I will accept the pact because I already feel bonded to the pseudodragon, not because you're saying I should".
"As long as you do it, it's a bucket load of whatever to me. It's highly irrelevant and not important to me, like, at all. Got it? Or should I explain in topics?".
"No, you shouldn't", Arzaak said, dismissive, turning to the Party. "Everyone, you should rest while the pseudodragon and I form this pact. I've never done this before, so I don't know how long it will take. The dryads won't mind keeping us as guests for the time being, right? Miss Elowen?".
"You can stay", Elowen said, showing a shyness one would never expect from an ancient spirit.
"Good", Arzaak replied. "Now, if you will excuse me".
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Find Familiar - Pact of the Chain.
----------------------------------------
As the spell started to take effect, Arzaak became able to see ethereal chains surrounding both the pseudodragon's arm and the Tiefling's right hand. Although disappearing mere seconds later, they were a symbol of a pact between the fey creature and its master. The Pseudodragon will keep its own will, but will never fail to obey to its Tiefling master's command unless it is harmed or mistreated.
The word "name" resonated within Arzaak's mind.
"So you want me to give you a name, huh. Let's see...what about...Stinger?".
The Pseudodragon roared out of joy.
"Then we are set. From now on, you are Stinger. I'm glad to have you as my familiar, Stinger".
The word "happy" resonated within his mind.
----------------------------------------
Pseudodragon Familiar Bond
* While Arzaak and his familiar are bonded, the companion can sense what the pseudodragon senses as long as they are within 1 mile of each other. While the pseudodragon is within 10 feet of its companion, the companion shares the pseudodragon's Magic Resistance trait.
* From now on, Stinger will be able to earn XP and gain levels. The gain of abilities and other features will follow a specific table.
* Stinger level adjusted to 1. HP adjusted to 8 (further levels will increase HP by 5).
----------------------------------------
Upon completion of the spell, Arzaak realized everything was complete silence. Kali and Barur were fast asleep, while Ziggy kept guard, steady as always. The dryads, on the other hand, watched Arzaak and his new familiar in awe.
"You must be special, Tiefling", Cerelia stated. "Pseudodragons are usually very skittish and suspicious of everyone. Yet, this one asked to be your familiar".
“I’m not a bright magician or a famous warrior, and I even made a pact with an Archfey by accident”, Arzaak confessed. “But right now, I’m really glad I did. I wouldn’t be able to have Stinger as my companion otherwise”.
“Who is your mistress, now that you mentioned?”, Lómelindë asked.
“From the books I’ve read, she is called Iggwilv. But I prefer the name Tasha”, Arzaak replied. The dryads eyes opened wide.
“You made a pact with the Archfey Iggwilv by accident? Are you insane by any chance?”, Thalion asked, incredulous.
“I don’t know”, Arzaak chuckled. “Maybe I am. But I’ll repeat—I don’t regret it”.
“He doesn’t know”, Aelinor told Thalion.
“It’s better this way”, Elowen interjected. “You two should rest as well”, she told Arzaak and his new familiar.
“I guess you’re right”, Arzaak said, snuggling between the surprisingly soft leaves that lined the ground. Stinger did not hold back and nestled beside him.
----------------------------------------
The Party has taken a long rest.
Arzaak, Kali and Barur’s HP have been completely restored.
Barur has memorized the following spells: Protection from Evil and Good, Bless, Healing Word, and Guiding Bolt (1st level slots); Cure Wounds and Lesser Restoration (2nd level slots);
Arzaak has memorized the spells Cloud of Daggers and Sleep (7d8 hit points worth of creatures affected).
----------------------------------------
"I reckon it's 'bout time I introduce meself properly, now that we're in the clear“, Barur grumbled, attempting to tidy his shaggy and disheveled beard after having slept on it. Barur Goldheart, cleric o’ Moradin, at yer service. Dwarf by nature, ‘ermit by will. These short arms have never been strong enough to mine for many hours straight, so I turned to medicine and healing, travelin’ through the lands in search of the sick and the weak so I can give ‘em some comfort. I can also brew some good ale and even a potion of healing if ye provide the materials and some time for me to work”.
“What made you end up in this forest?”, Kali asked, inquisitive.
Barur gave out a long sigh.
"Centuries past, me ancestors made them homes 'neath the deep roots of these High Woods. Their king, a warrior strong as a storm and with a thirst no ale could quench, was named Gromdurr Ironfist. In his possession, he held a relic of power so great, it ensured his rule went uncontested. The true nature o’ this artifact eludes me still, but after poring over ancient scrolls and texts of me clan, I've discovered that it still rests there, right on the king's throne”, Barur explained, casually flicking a leaf to the ground as his gaze wandered.
“The scripts, cryptic as they be, never make it clear whether this relic is sacred or not. For that reason, I fear that the vampire seeks it out, just as I do", he continued.
“That only makes things even more dangerous”, Arzaak said. “A powerful relic often becomes the target of many powerful entities, among which a vampire might rank as the least important”.
"Tell me about it", Megalomagna said. "Being too powerful can be quite a headache sometimes".
"None of that is of our business", Kali interjected. "We came here exclusively to kill the giant rats and go back to town so we can collect our reward".
"That much I expected", Barur replied. "This is me journey, me quest. Y'dun't have ta join me if y'dun't want to—".
"Good. Glad you understand", Kali responded.
"—unless yer interested in their treasure", Barur added.
Kali suddenly became more interested in the conversation.
"What kind of treasure are we talking about?", she inquired.
"Me ancestors were called the Gold Dwarves. Ye know what that means", Barur replied with a smirk.
Kali wasn't exactly covetous, but she knew how important money was, not only for survival but also to provide herself a better life than she had growing up. More than buying equipment for a quest, gold could give her warm clothes, a comfortable bed, a roof to be under and, most importantly, peace of mind. If the risks were calculated and the payment was good, she might be willing to take them.
"How do we get there?", Kali asked.
"Suddenly you're not afraid of the vampire anymore?", Arzaak mocked.
"Barur said there's a way of banishing him from the ground", Kali retorted.
"I said we must come up with a plan", Barur corrected. "Never said I had one".
"I say let him have it", Arzaak interjected. "It's a vampire. What good can an ancient dwarven relic to do him?".
"He might be a minion of someone even stronger", Ziggy said, joining the conversation for the first time. "Someone who can use this relic's powers to the fullest".
"You guys are thinking too much and doing too little", Megalomagna stated. "Keep it simple, will ya? Move during the day, hide during the night. Protect yourselves with things vampires hate. Do that until you reach Yasnar—".
"Yartar", Ziggy corrected.
"Whatever. Once you get there, ask for help. It's that simple!".
"I dun't like the idea o' telling anyone 'bout the relic. I only told ye because ye saved me life", Barur observed.
"I've shared Yartar's location with your pseudodragon familiar. The dryads tree strode you to the other side of the Dessarin River, on the western border of the High Woods, so it's easier for you to just follow the river through the Dessarin Valley. Hurry, okay? The creatures of the forest will be in grave danger while you try to get there", Ziggy said, his tone filled with worry.
"Then we are set", Kali said. "We leave as soon as the sun rises".
"Huuh...Elowen, Cerelia, Lóme...", Arzaak paused as he couldn't remember the remaining dryads' names. The magnificent creatures of the forest chuckled at the Tiefling's clumsiness.
"You don't have to thank us", Lómelindé said, interrupting him. "We have enough evidence that you will become a protector of the Fey someday, so this little comfort we have provided you will be well rewarded".
Puzzled by the dryad’s bold statement, Arzaak decided not to retort. "Barur, are you in?", he asked the dwarf. "We can think about the relic and how to find it once we're safe, and the vampire, killed".
Although reluctant, Barur agreed to join his newfound companions.
Barur Goldheart has joined the Party.
***
As the first rays of light bathe the earth and the Party prepares to leave the forest, a sense of unease settles over them. The air feels heavy, and even the usual cacophony of forest sounds seems a little muted. Kali’s senses sharpen, her instincts honed by her survival in the wild. She scans the surrounding trees, her muscles tensing as she feels the weight of unseen eyes upon her.
Arzaak, more accustomed to the quiet of libraries than the danger of the wilderness, feels a twinge of apprehension but brushes it off as nerves. Meanwhile, Barur’s keen eyes dart from tree to tree, scanning for any sign of movement. He knows that the forest is home to many dangers, from lurking predators to cunning ambushers. His grip tightens on his warhammer as he prepares for whatever might lie ahead.
Without uttering a word, the Party has to deliberate their next move. A rustling sound breaks the silence, followed by the faintest whisper of movement in the underbrush. It could be nothing more than a harmless woodland creature, or it could be the first sign of an impending ambush. They exchange wary glances, each member silently weighing their options.
----------------------------------------
The Party must decide whether to move forward or take an alternative action in order to find out if an ambush is about to happen.
Kali rolls a Wisdom (Survival) ability check: 12. Failed.
----------------------------------------
“There's no good in waiting until the ambush reveals itself. Let's proceed, and if someone lies ahead, we'll make them regret their cowardice!”, Kali said, recklessly taking charge.
“Wait, Kali!”, Arzaak exclaimed, receiving a late telepathic message from Stinger.
From the canopy and behind the trees, four creatures emerged.
"Dammit!", was all that Kali was able to grumble before the monsters attacked.
----------------------------------------
The Party has been ambushed. Kali has been surprised and can’t move or take an action on her first turn of the combat.
Four Gnolls have appeared (25 HP, 21 HP, 29 HP, 20 HP).
INITIATIVE ROLL:
* Gnoll 2: 19+1
* Arzaak: 18-1
* Gnoll 1: 12+1
* Gnoll 4: 12+1
* Barur: 14-1
* Gnoll 3: 9+1
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
Gnoll 2 attacks Kali with spear. Rolled 4. Missed.
Arzaak casts Sleep. 22 hit points worth of monsters affected.
Gnoll 4 has been put to sleep for 1 minute.
----------------------------------------
The gnolls are too stupid and brutish to try and wake their pack member up.
Gnoll 1 attacks Kali with spear. Rolled 3. Missed.
Barur casts Guiding Bolt on Gnoll 3. Rolled 10. Hit for 4d6: 14 radiant damage, and the next attack roll made against this target before the end of Barur's next turn has advantage.
* Gnoll 3 HP: 15/29
----------------------------------------
Gnoll 3 attacks Barur. Rolled 12. Hit for 1d8+2: 8 piercing damage.
* Barur HP: 25/33
----------------------------------------
ROUND 2
Kali rolls for initiative: 11+2.
----------------------------------------
Gnoll 2 attacks Kali with spear. Rolled 9. Missed.
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Gnoll 2. Rolled 17. Hit for 1d10+5: 12 force damage. Gnoll 2 has been pushed 10 feet away.
* Gnoll 2 HP: 09/21
----------------------------------------
Kali activates Rage as a bonus action. While Kali is raging, Party members within 5 feet of her have advantage on melee attack rolls against any hostile creatures.
Kali attacks Gnoll 1 with disadvantage due to the sunlight. Rolled 20, 10. Hit for 1d12+5: 14 slashing damage.
* Gnoll 1 HP: 11/25
----------------------------------------
Gnoll 4 is asleep.
----------------------------------------
Barur attacks Gnoll 3 with advantage. Rolled 3, 19. Hit for 1d8: 8 bludgeoning damage.
* Gnoll 3 HP: 07/29
----------------------------------------
Gnoll 3 attacks Barur with spear. Rolled 17. Hit for 1d8+2: 6 piercing damage.
* Barur HP: 19/33
----------------------------------------
ROUND 3
----------------------------------------
Gnoll 2 attacks Arzaak with spear. Rolled 18. Hit for 9 piercing damage.
* Arzaak HP: 15/24
----------------------------------------
Arzaak uses Megalomagna's reaction to retaliate with advantage. Rolled 15, 17. Hit for 1d8+1: 6 slashing damage.
* Gnoll 2 HP: 03/21
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Gnoll 2 with advantage. Rolled 8, 5. Hit for 1d10+5: 15 force damage.
* Gnoll 2 HP: -12/21
Gnoll 2's head has been atomized by the blast.
----------------------------------------
Kali attacks Gnoll 1. Rolled 16. Hit for 1d12+5: 16 slashing damage.
* Gnoll 1 HP: -05/25
Gnoll 1's throat has been sliced open and the gnoll choked in its own blood.
Gnoll 4 is asleep.
----------------------------------------
Barur attacks Gnoll 3 with advantage. Rolled 6, 20. Critical Hit for 2d8: 9 bludgeoning damage.
* Gnoll 3 HP: -02/29
Gnoll 3 has been clobbered to death.
----------------------------------------
The remaining gnoll is still magically put to sleep.
"I won't give this freak a chance to wake up", Kali declared.
Kali attacks Gnoll 4 with advantage. Rolled 11, 16. Critical Hit for 2d12+5: 18 slashing damage.
* Gnoll 4 HP: 02/20
----------------------------------------
The Gnoll wakes up to a terrible slash to its throat. Due to the surprise, it cannot attack.
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Gnoll 4 with advantage. Rolled 11, 6. Hit for 1d10+5: 9 force damage.
* Gnoll 4 HP: -07/20
Gnoll 4 has been annihilated.
----------------------------------------
The Party has emerged victorious, defeating the four gnolls. Each Party member earns 800 XP for the defeated monsters in this encounter.
* Arzaak has accumulated 1.820 + 800 = 2.420 XP in total.
* Kali has accumulated 1.320 + 800 = 2.120 XP in total.
* Barur has accumulated 900 + 800 = 1.700 XP in total.
* Stinger has accumulated 800 XP in total.
* Stinger has advanced from level 1 to level 2.
* Stinger’s max HP increased to 13.
* Stinger has learned the spell Druidcraft (at will).
The following treasure has been found with the gnolls:
* 39 silver pieces.
* 17 copper pieces.
***
"Let's try not to be so impulsive next time, okay?", Arzaak complained, still feeling the pain of a spear hit that pierced through his shoulder.
"I agree. It isn't wise ta move forwar' when there's a chance we migh' fall into a trap", Barur remarked.
"You didn't even know there was an ambush. I just went ahead and brought them cowardly hyenas into the open. You're welcome", Kali retorted, restraining her lingering rage now that there were no monsters for her to rampage on.
"Your pet Drow is funny", Megalomagna mocked.
"Who are you calling a pet?", Kali roared, her lilac eyes burning with fury.
"Oh, my bad. The Pseudodragon is the pet. Think I mixed things up a little", the sword replied, sardonic.
"Stinger is not a pet, he is a familiar. Stop spouting nonsense, Megalomania!", Arzaak reprimanded.
“It’s Megalom…oh what am I saying. You guys are incapable of saying my name correctly anyway”, Megalomagna grumbled.
“We're finally out”, Barur said, as the Party stepped out of the High Forest and a vast expanse unfolded before them, painting a scene of raw beauty and untamed wilderness. The border of the forest marked a transition, where the towering trees gradually gave way to sweeping vistas and open skies.
On the horizon, stretched the majestic landscape of the Dessarin Valley, a patchwork of rolling hills, meandering rivers, and distant mountain ranges. The air was crisp and invigorating, carrying with it the scent of pine and earth, mingled with the distant rush of the Dessarin River.
In the distance, the peaks of the Sword Mountains rose like silent sentinels, their rugged slopes bathed in the golden light of dawn. Closer at hand, the valley floor was alive with the vibrant hues of wildflowers, their petals dancing in the gentle breeze.
Worried about the lack of time and the dangers of the night, the adventurers quickened their pace, aiming to reach a safe resting place before nightfall, even if it meant marching through a scorching sun for the entire day.
----------------------------------------
Day 1
----------------------------------------
The adventurers depart from the outskirts of the Dessarin Valley, following the winding path that borders the Dessarin River. As they travel, they come across a stranded merchant caravan whose wagon has broken an axle.
“Need a hand there?” Kali asked, her obsidian skin drawing a curious look from the man.
“Uhh…my caravan. I can’t fix it alone. I’m not strong enough”, he said.
“We can do it”, she replied. “Which one of you is stronger?”, she asked, her gaze shifting from Barur to Arzaak.
"I suppose I can handle it myself", Kali mumbled, not paying attention to the offended glances exchanged between Arzaak and Barur.
As Kali assists in repairing the merchant’s wagon, they are rewarded with provisions and valuable information about the road ahead, including a warning that trolls and ogres usually wander the area.
----------------------------------------
Day 2
----------------------------------------
As the Party traversed an open area along the river's edge, they started to feel a foul smell, a mix of unwashed body and rotten meat. Fishbones, remains of small mammals and bones that seemed frighteningly similar to human bones could be seen, ragged pieces of cloth gruesomely stuck to them. The vegetation in that particular area was trampled and the eventual trees had had their branches broken or tore off. In the distance, loud footsteps, grunting and crashing sounds could be heard.
----------------------------------------
Kali makes a Wisdom (Perception) check with disadvantage. Rolled 1, 11. Failed.
Arzaak makes a Wisdom (Perception) check. Rolled 15. Succeeded.
----------------------------------------
"Kali, wait", Arzaak called out. "Those are ogre tracks. Look—the branches are broken in a height only a creature as tall as such could break".
"How can you be sure? It could be a troll, or even a giant", Kali argued.
"Then we should proceed with even mor' caution", Barur pondered.
"Agreed", Arzaak said before Kali could retort. "Stinger, please scan the surroundings and let us know of any threats".
Darting with surprising speed, the pseudodragon flew towards the sky in order to have a better view of the entire area. Arzaak could feel through his familiar senses up to a point, marveling at the sensation of flying. Then, his senses faded back to his own, as the familiar distanced himself more than a mile. But before Arzaak could be any worried, a telepathic message ringed in his mind: "Ogres. Pair. West".
"Thank you, Stinger", Arzaak mumbled. "I was right. There are two ogres to the west of here".
"Then we do what we do best—we utterly crush them", Kali said between gritted teeth.
"Maybe we could ambush 'em instead", Barur reasoned. "We still have a long journey 'head of us. Takin’ more damage ain’t a good idea".
"Ambush...that's not how a barbarian fights!", Kali hissed, angry.
"You should listen to the wise ones, barbie girl", Megalomagna advised. "Ogres can pack quite a punch, I tell ya. I know that because once an ogre punched the tip of my blade. It hurt more on him than it did on me, but still".
"You just can't say anything useful, can you?", Kali vented.
Just as Kali was admonishing the sword, Stinger swiftly landed on Arzaak's shoulders, receiving a pat on the head for a job well-done and a piece of meat the pseudodragon happily devoured.
"Since we probably won't be able to avoid a confrontation, I suggest we move as silently as possible until the ogres come into view. Then we can decide on the best strategy to take them down quickly", Arzaak said.
“Good”, Barur said. Kali merely grunted in response and moved ahead, making little effort to remain stealthy.
About three miles later, the Party spotted two large, bipedal creatures sitting around something. From that distance, it was impossible to discern what the creatures were gathered around, but their ugly features and savage demeanor made it very clear that, while humanoid, they were not beings of high intelligence.
"Stinger. Are those the ogres you saw earlier?", Arzaak asked.
The pseudodragon nodded positively.
"Then we should circle them and strike from behind", Arzaak pondered. "Kali, you are more agile than us and, well, you're a hunter. Treat those things as prey and try to strike them as silently as you can. I'll follow up with a spell and hopefully we can take at least one of them down right from the start".
"Do we really have to do this under this sun?", Kali complained. "It really bothers me. A lot".
"We can't waste any time. More ogres might show up and who knows what kind of beast roams this area at night", Arzaak argumented.
"I should heal first. Dun't wanna drop dead from a single whack to the head", Barur said, clutching his glowing holy symbol of the church of Moradin.
----------------------------------------
Barur casts Cure Wounds on himself. Healed for 2d8+7: 13 HP.
* Barur HP: 32/33
----------------------------------------
"Are we good? Let's do it!", Arzaak rallied.
Kali must throw a Dexterity (Stealth) ability check. Rolled 9. Failed.
----------------------------------------
Kali steps on a branch and gives her position away to the ogres. The monsters lashed out and let out an ugly battle cry.
"I think we're screwed", Megalomagna noted.
"We must support her!", Arzaak shouted. "Let's go!".
----------------------------------------
Two ogres (55 HP, 60 HP) have appeared.
INITIATIVE ROLL
* Barur: 20-1
* Kali: 12+2
* Ogre 2: 9-1
* Ogre 1: 2-1
* Arzaak: 7-1
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
Barur casts Sacred Flame on Ogre 1. Ogre makes a Dexterity saving throw (DC 14): 9. Failed. Suffered 1d8: 5 radiant damage.
* Ogre 1 HP: 50/55
----------------------------------------
Kali attacks Ogre 1 with disadvantage. Rolled 2, 15. Missed.
Ogre 2 attacks Kali. Rolled 15. Hit for 2d8+4: 12 bludgeoning damage.
* Kali HP: 17/29
----------------------------------------
Ogre 1 attacks Kali. Rolled 6. Missed.
Arzaak casts Fey Presence. Ogres must throw a Wisdom saving throw (DC 15) or become charmed until the end of his next turn.
Ogre 1: 11. Failed. Ogre 1 is charmed.
Ogre 2: 20. Saved.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 2
----------------------------------------
Barur attacks Ogre 2. Rolled 14. Hit for 1d8: 8 bludgeoning damage.
* Ogre 2 HP: 52/60
----------------------------------------
Kali attacks Ogre 2 with disadvantage. Rolled 7, 16. Hit for 1d12+3: 11 slashing damage.
* Ogre 2 HP: 41/60
----------------------------------------
Ogre 2 attacks Kali. Rolled 5. Missed.
“Tell the ogre his friend called him stupid!”, Megalomagna alerted. “Quickly!”.
Arzaak did as Megalomagna instructed. The ogre immediately turned to his companion and lunged at him.
Ogre 1 attacks Ogre 2. Rolled 20. Critical hit for 4d8+4: 25 bludgeoning damage.
* Ogre 2 HP: 16/60
----------------------------------------
The two ogres started to argue.
“What are they saying?”, Arzaak asked, squinting his eyes.
“The ogre who got hit is scolding the other. The ogre who hit him is saying he was charmed to believe he was called stupid. The first ogre is saying he really is stupid…and now they’re fighting each other. You can take it from here”, Megalomagna remarked.
Ogre 2 attacks Ogre 1. Rolled 10. Hit for 2d8+4: 16 bludgeoning damage.
* Ogre 1 HP: 34/55
----------------------------------------
“Now the charmed ogre is saying the big-horned guy is to blame and that they should eat him instead of fighting among themselves”, Megalomagna said.
“That’s not good news”, Arzaak remarked. “Gonna need some help guys, let’s regroup and I’ll try to take them down with a spell”.
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Ogre 2. Rolled 8. Hit for 1d10+5: 14 force damage.
* Ogre 2 HP: 02/60
----------------------------------------
ROUND 3
----------------------------------------
Barur attacks Ogre 2. Rolled 20. Critical hit for 2d8: 8 bludgeoning damage.
* Ogre 2 HP: -06/60
Ogre 2 has been bashed to death.
----------------------------------------
Kali attacks Ogre 1with disadvantage. Rolled 9, 3. Missed.
Ogre 1 attacks Arzaak. Rolled 19. Hit for 2d8+4: 11 bludgeoning damage.
* Arzaak HP: 04/24
----------------------------------------
Arzaak uses Megalomagna's reaction to retaliate with advantage. Rolled 6. Missed.
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Ogre 1. Rolled 2. Missed.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 4
----------------------------------------
Barur attacks Ogre 1. Rolled 1. Missed.
Kali attacks Ogre 1 with disadvantage. Rolled 3, 16. Missed.
Ogre 1 attacks Arzaak. Rolled 8. Hit for 2d8+4: 11 bludgeoning damage.
* Arzaak HP: -07/24
Arzaak has fallen unconscious.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 5
----------------------------------------
“The Tieflin’ needs help!”, Barur exclaimed. “Back me up, barbarian girl!”.
Barur casts Healing Word on Arzaak. Healed for 1d4+7: 9 HP.
* Arzaak HP: 02/24
----------------------------------------
Kali uses Reckless Attack. Rolled 9. Hit for 1d12+3: 11 slashing damage.
* Ogre 1 HP: 23/55
----------------------------------------
The Ogre has turned its attention to Barur after seeing him healing Arzaak.
Ogre attacks Barur. Rolled 8. Missed.
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Ogre 1. Rolled 14. Hit for 1d10+5: 12 force damage.
* Ogre 1 HP: 11/55
----------------------------------------
ROUND 6
----------------------------------------
Barur attacks Ogre 1. Rolled 20. Critical hit for 2d8: 6 bludgeoning damage.
* Ogre 1 HP: 05/55
----------------------------------------
Kali uses Reckless Attack. Rolled 5. Missed.
Ogre attacks Barur. Rolled 19. Hit for 2d8+4: 8 bludgeoning damage.
* Barur HP: 24/33
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Ogre 1. Rolled 1. Missed.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 7
----------------------------------------
“You guys are really bad, huh?”, Megalomagna mocked. “If you knew how to wield me properly and if you were a GODDAMN SWORDSMAN, this fight would have ended two hours ago!”.
“If you have time to be blabbering”, Arzaak said, panting. “Do something to help”.
“Sorry. In my current state, there’s nothing I can do. That lightshow you saw earlier doesn’t depend on me”.
“Hmpf. Typical”, Arzaak said, dismissive.
Barur attacks Ogre 1. Rolled 5. Missed.
Kali uses Reckless Attack. Rolled 11. Hit for 1d12+3: 12 slashing damage.
* Ogre 1 HP: -07/55
Ogre 1 has been cleaved to pieces.
----------------------------------------
The Party has emerged victorious, defeating the two ogres. Each Party member earns 1.800 XP for the defeated monsters in this encounter.
* Arzaak has accumulated2.420 + 1.800 = 4.220 XP in total.
* Arzaak has advanced from level 3 to level 4.
* Arzaak’s HP increased by 7 (max 31).
* Arzaak’s Dexterity ability score has increased to 10 (modifier 0) and his Constitution score has increased to15 (modifier +2).
* Arzaak has learned the cantrip Poison Spray— 5 spells known plus Archfey expanded list – two 2nd level spell slots).
----------------------------------------
* Kali has accumulated 2.120 + 1.800 = 3.920 XP in total.
* Kali has advanced from level 3 to level 4.
* Kali’s HP increased by 8 (max 38).
* Kali’s Strength ability score has increased to 18 (modifier +4).
----------------------------------------
* Barur has accumulated1.700 + 1.800 = 3.500 XP in total.
* Barur has advanced from level 3 to level 4.
* Barur’s HP increased by 9 (max 42).
* Barur’s Dexterity ability score has increased to 10 (modifier 0) and his Wisdom score has increased to 20 (modifier +5).
* Barur has learned the cantrip Guidance.
----------------------------------------
* Stinger has accumulated 800 + 1.800 = 2.600 XP in total.
* Stinger has advanced from level 2 to level 3.
* Stinger’s HP increased by 5 (max 18).
* Stinger has learned the spell Fog Cloud (1/day). Stinger’s spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 11).
----------------------------------------
Megalomagna has advanced from level 3 to level 4.
* Wielder's Strength increases by 3 as long as he/she is attuned to Megalomagna. Arzaak’s Strength ability score increased to 11 (modifier 0).
* New Cantrip unlocked -Vicious Mockery (at will).
***
The battle might have been tough for everyone, but none of the Party members were as battered and worn out as Arzaak.
Stumbling and having trouble even standing up, Arzaak was lifted by Kali and Barur while Stinger gave him a friendly roar, and the word "worry" echoed in his mind.
He was already regaining his senses when the Party approached the thing those ogres were gathered around for. Upon closer inspection, they realized it was a human corpse, with chunks of its flesh already torn or bitten off, including of its face, revealing bones and rotting internal tissue. The man was dressed in simple clothes—now reduced to rags—typical of a citizen, implying that he was probably a merchant or peddler that was unlucky enough to cross the ogres' path.
At the sight of the poor man's decayed state, Arzaak's stomach couldn't hold up, and he threw up what little food he had eaten that day, and passed out.
----------------------------------------
The Party has found the following treasure with the ogres and the dead man:
* 8 gems worth 50 gp each
* A potion (of clairvoyance)
* A feather token (Quaal's Feather Token - Tree)
* 49 copper pieces
* a map
***
Arzaak woke up inside a cave, next to a large bonfire that kept the surroundings clear of insects and opportunistic predators. Kali and Barur were sat down next to the fire, studying a crude map carefully. Stinger kept watch close to his companion, just in case an unpleasant visitor—such as the vampire—decided to show up.
"What is that map?", Arzaak mumbled, still a little dizzy.
"Finally!", Kali exclaimed. "How long were you planning to sleep, boy? Weren't you the one who said we had no time to lose?".
"Oof...gimme a break, Kali", Arzaak said, his stomach still hurting. "I got knocked out by an ogre while trying to back you up".
"You did a nice job pittin' those meatheads 'gainst each other, Arzaak boy", Barur said as he munched on a piece of bread. "But better be sure you got cover before you charm anythin' else, just in case".
"I'll give it some thought. Now, about the map", Arzaak said, nodding at the piece of paper in Kali's hands.
"We found inside one of the ogre's treasure sacks. It seems they drew it in order to be able to get back to their encampment in case they get lost. That's how dumb they are", Kali said, tossing the map in Arzaak's direction.
"So my worries are justified. There are more, possible many more ogres in the area. We must proceed with great caution", Arzaak remarked.
"You guys say that but how can you be cautious when you can barely walk without making a noise? You guys are just too clumsy!", Megalomagna said.
"That's why Kali should go on ahead. I can even let Stinger go with her, since he's great at moving silently", Arzaak noted.
"Do you really want me to lead the way, even knowing I won't try to ambush anything?", Kali said with a smirk.
"Better than gettin' mauled and eaten by ogres", Barur replied in his stead.
"Then we are set. Let's move!", Kali said, getting up with remarkable agility.
----------------------------------------
The Party has taken a long rest.
* All HP restored.
* Barur has memorized the spells Protection from Evil and Good, Bless, Healing Word and Guiding Bolt (1st level slots); Cure Wounds, Lesser Restoration and Prayer of Healing (2nd level slots).
* Arzaak has recovered his Fey Presence ability.
----------------------------------------
Day 3
----------------------------------------
Continuing their journey, the adventurers cautiously skirt around the ogre encampment, opting to avoid a confrontation that would certainly be their last, considering how much damage they took from a single pair of those large monsters.
Then, they heard loud footsteps, followed by the appearance of a large frame that cast a shadow over the trees surrounding the valley. As the Party hid behind bushes, a grotesque amalgamation of sinewy muscle and thick, gnarled hide, with bulging muscles rippling beneath a mottled layer of coarse and leathery skin, appeared. Its elongated arms hanged at its sides, ending in razor-sharp claws that glinted ominously, twitching with predatory anticipation. In its face, a broad, flattened nose and a cavernous mouth lined with row upon row of jagged teeth were visible. Its eyes, glowing with a sickly green light, scanned the surroundings with unnerving intensity, their gaze betraying unending hunger.
The creature’s monstrous features twisted into a snarl as it sniffed the air, its keen senses probing for any signs of prey. Kali gestured for the Party to remain immobile and hold their breaths for as long as they could.
----------------------------------------
Kali must throw a Dexterity (Stealth) check contested by the troll’s Wisdom (Perception) check. The troll has advantage on Wisdom checks related to smell.
* Kali rolled 10.
* Troll rolled 12, 15.
The troll wins the contest.
----------------------------------------
The troll’s keen senses, honed by years of survival in the wild, detected a hint of the adventurers’ scent lingering in the air. Its nostrils flared as it lifted its ugly head, the sickly glow of its eyes intensifying with primal hunger as it locked onto the source of the disturbance. With a guttural growl, the troll began to stalk towards the Party, its heavy footsteps sending shockwaves through the earth with each lumbering stride.
Just as the monster’s predatory instincts seemed on the verge of leading it straight to the adventurers’ hiding spot, Stinger’s eyes glowed.
----------------------------------------
Stinger has cast the Druidcraft cantrip.
----------------------------------------
With a sudden rush of wind, the leaves overhead began to rustle, and a cloud of pollen filled the air, carrying with it a scent foreign to the abominable creature’s senses. It’s head suddenly snapped in the direction of the disturbance, its nostrils opening wide as it detected the unfamiliar scent carried on the breeze. Furious, the troll lumbered off in pursuit of the imaginary prey, its massive form disappearing into the depths of the forest.
“That was a troll, you know”, Megalomagna said as soon as the troll disappeared from sight.
“I know!”, everyone exclaimed, annoyed.
“You have done beautifully, Stinger!”, Arzaak told his familiar, who gave a happy roar in reply.
Relief washed over the Party as they watched the troll vanish from sight, their gratitude to Stinger palpable in the air. With the danger averted, they emerged from their hiding spot, took a deep breath, and resumed their journey.
----------------------------------------
Day 4
----------------------------------------
Continuing their journey along the Dessarin River, the adventurers encounter a group of weary travelers seeking refuge from a monster that has been stalking them.
"Please help us", one of the travelers said. "There's a huge monster on our tails. It's gonna kill and eat us all!".
"I'm afraid we don't have time for that", Arzaak said dismissively. "If you can't fight, you shouldn't even be here. It's the wilderness, and dangerous beasts are likely to appear".
Barur did not like Arzaak's answer, but Kali nodded in agreement with the Tiefling.
"Where are ye going, and what kind of monster are ye running from?", Barur asked with legitimate interest.
"We were on the way to Longsaddle. I—ahem, we want to visit the Gambling Golem, a popular place for having a little, harmless fun".
"I can see one of you is not human", Kali noted. The person in question was a tall, slender man with copper skin, brown, long hair and hazel eyes. He was dressed in simple clothes and carried a longsword tied to his waist.
"He's just shy and introspective. Look, we really need to find a place to hide. The monster is a vicious beast that will certainly kill us all if it finds us", the traveler said, getting desperate.
"YOU need to hide", Arzaak retorted. "We must keep marching. There's too much at stake for us to stop and cower somewhere until this...troll or whatever goes away".
"Troll? Who said it was a troll?", a third traveler said with a nervous laughter. "Trolls are dumb and much easier to fool. This thing is not. It's an owlbear! A huge, vicious bear with the face of a giant owl!".
"Never seen one", Arzaak replied, still dismissive. "Sorry folks, we must be going".
"No!", Megalomagna shouted. "You can't leave these dolts alone. They're gonna die. If you had witnessed an owlbear, you would understand".
"Look, Megalomagna, I can't play hero every time you want me to. There's a whole forest in danger, and a vampire is a much greater threat than this owl...bear thing", Arzaak said in his defense.
"A good deed done today is...huuuh...a good deed returned tomorrow, I think. What I'm trying to say is that you can't refuse helping people because you have a greater mission to fulfill. That would be hypocritical", Megalomagna reasoned.
"And what do you know? Do you have any idea how many times people could have helped me and chose not to, just because I look the way I do?", Arzaak responded.
"That only serves my argument. Don't do to those people the same shit some assholes did to you in the past. Be better than them!", Megalomagna exclaimed. "Wow, I sound like a freaking coach!".
Arzaak went silent for a few seconds, then sighed.
"You're an idiot, but also very persuasive, you know?", Arzaak complained. "Fine, let's find these folks a shelter".
As the sun started to set, they heard a loud screech.
"It's the owlbear! Run!", the traveler screamed and made a run for it.
With the Party following suit, Arzaak asked Stinger to find a place for them to stay. The pseudodragon swiftly scanned the surroundings and found an old, abandoned watchtower that seemed safe enough for both the adventurers and the travelers to spend the night.
When they were all about to sleep on improvised mats stretched out on the cold floor, Stinger suddenly raised his head, startling Arzaak.
"What?", he muttered to his familiar. "Danger. Monster. Close", the pseudodragon replied.
Then, an enormous owl head appeared from down below, accompanied by two fearsome bear claws that held onto the floor. Then, with great ease, the creature leapt onto the superior floor of the watchtower and released a terrifying high-pitched screech, waking everyone up.
"The monster is here!", one of the travelers screamed. "We're going to die!".
"Not on my watch!", Megalomagna declared. "Hairzaak! Do something!".
"You don't have to tell me", Arzaak retorted, getting ready to strike.
----------------------------------------
An Owlbear has appeared (79 HP).
INITIATIVE ROLL:
* Kali: 13+2
* Arzaak: 15
* Owlbear: 12+1
* Barur: 9
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
Kali activates Rage (1/3) and attacks. Rolled 10. Hit for 1d12+6: 14 slashing damage.
* Owlbear HP: 65/79
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast. Rolled 8, 13. Hit for 1d10+5: 15 force damage.
* Owlbear HP: 50/79
Owlbear has been pushed back 10 feet by the repelling blast and must make a Dexterity saving throw (DC 13) or fall to the watchtower's lower floor. Rolled 20. Saved.
Owlbear has held onto the planks and must make a Strength ability check (DC 13) to leap back onto the higher floor. Rolled 10. Succeeded.
The owlbear wasn't knocked down, but has already used its action on this turn.
----------------------------------------
Barur attacks. Rolled 13, 11. Hit for 1d8: 2 bludgeoning damage.
* Owlbear HP: 48/79
----------------------------------------
ROUND 2
----------------------------------------
Kali attacks. Rolled 20. Critical hit for 2d12+6: 21 slashing damage.
* Owlbear HP: 27/79
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast. Rolled 1, 3. Missed.
"That was disgraceful, Hairzaak. Here, let me show you a new trick I've learned", Megalomagna declared.
Megalomagna casts Vicious Mockery cantrip. Owlbear must make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 17). Rolled 9. Failed. Owlbear takes 1d4: 2 psychic damage and will have disadvantage on the next attack roll it makes before the end of its next turn.
* Owlbear HP: 25/79
----------------------------------------
Owlbear sees Barur as the smaller and most vulnerable prey and attacks. Rolled the first attack with disadvantage: 17, 14. Hit. Rolled 15, 5. Two hits for 2d8+5 each: 19, 17 piercing damage.
* Barur HP: 06/42
----------------------------------------
"What a vicious beast", Barur uttered, greatly damaged by the owlbear's onslaught.
“We must get rid of it now!”, Kali rallied. “Let’s go, everyone!”.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 3
----------------------------------------
Kali uses Reckless Attack. Rolled 3, 9. Hit for 1d12+6: 16 slashing damage.
* Owlbear HP: 09/79
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast. Rolled 11, 8. Hit for 1d10+5: 13 force damage.
* Owlbear HP: -04/79
The owlbear’s massive chest was ruptured and burned by the intense, focused blast, turning its roar into a pained shriek as the eldritch energy tore through its thick hide and sent shockwaves into its body. With a final, guttural groan, the creature collapsed to the ground, its smoldering wounds still crackling with dark energy.
----------------------------------------
The Party has emerged victorious, defeating the owlbear. Each Party member earns 700 XP for the defeated monster in this encounter.
* Arzaak has accumulated 4.220 + 700 = 4.990 XP in total.
* Kali has accumulated 3.920 + 700 = 4.620 XP in total.
* Barur has accumulated 3.500 + 700 = 4.200 XP in total.
* Stinger has accumulated 2.600 + 700 = 3.300 XP in total.
* Stinger has advanced from level 3 to level 4.
* Stinger’s Dexterity ability score has increased to 16 (modifier +3) and his Constitution score has increased to 14 (modifier +2).
* Stinger’s HP increased by 9 (max 27).
* Stinger’s natural Armor Class has improved to 14.
***
“You people are amazing!”, the traveler exclaimed. “I can’t believe you’ve really managed to slay the beast.
“That’s what we do”, Kali replied, curtly. “Now, if you would excuse us, our cleric is hurt and needs rest”.
The travelers, surprised at how stern the Drow’s response was, remained silent for the rest of the night.
----------------------------------------
The Party has taken a long rest.
* All HP restored.
----------------------------------------
Day 5
----------------------------------------
With the owlbear vanquished and the travelers safe, the adventurers decide to go on with their journey.
As they exchanged goodbyes and the travelers made reward promises they already knew they would not keep, the Party heard for the first time the tall and introspective man speak.
"Noro gu-hûl", he declared before departing, causing Kali to furrow her eyebrows.
"I knew it", Kali said. "He's an elf".
"What did he say to us just now?", Arzaak asked.
"Run with the wind", Kali answered, her gaze drifting towards the horizon.
"I hope it was just a metaphor from Mr. tall guy, cuz I ain't runnin' anywhere", Barur remarked.
"Whatever he meant, there's no reason for us to hang around anyway”, Kali said, snapping out of her reverie and taking the lead.
As they pressed forward through the rugged terrain at the foot of the Dessarin Hills, the sight of ruins emerged. The air became thick with the scent of earth and ancient stone.
Mighty structures, crafted from old stone and weathered by wind and rain, stood as silent sentinels of a long lost era. Massive stone pillars carved with runes and symbols towered over the adventurers, their surfaces worn smooth by the passage of time.
They marveled as they walked under the crumbling archways, with moss and ivy clanging to the walls, weaving a tapestry of greenery amidst the ruins. Ornate carvings adorned every surface, depicting scenes of battles, triumphs, and the daily lives of the dwarven folk.
"It seems we have stumbled upon a historical site", Arzaak observed, amazed by the quality of the stonework.
"Besilmer, the kingdom built by the shield dwarves—or rather what's left of if after it was destroyed by evil giants and horrible trolls", Barur explained. "To this day I still can't understand why they wanted to live 'bove ground. Perhaps if they had chosen to build a fortified kingdom underground from the start, they wouldn't have ended like this".
While Arzaak watched Barur’s lecture in astonishment, and Stinger munched on a rat he had just caught, Kali scanned the surroundings, her agitation apparently growing the more she searched.
“What are you looking at so intently that you can’t stay still?”, Arzaak asked.
“You’re too oblivious. I bet you didn’t even notice that Yartar is on the other side of the river”, Kali replied.
“I don’t know anything about this region. But now that you mention it… we really did come along the southern bank of the river”, Arzaak pondered.
“If we had gone by the north bank, we would have already arrived”, Kali remarked. “But because of these mountains, it seems we’ve come to a dead end”.
“Are ye saying we’re stuck here with no way to move forwar'?”, Barur intervened.
“This is not good. Not good at all. What do we do? It’s not possible that we’ll have to backtrack the entire way we came”, Arzaak said, becoming worried.
“Unless you know how to fly, that’s exactly what we’ll have to do”, Kali quipped.
“Dwarves dun’t fly nor do they need to”, Barur retorted. “Everything we need is here”, the dwarf said, thumping the butt of his war hammer on the ground.
Then, the adventurers heard a sound typical of hitting a hollow surface.
“That sound!”, Barur exclaimed. “There’s sumtin' beneath these stones!”
“Maybe the dwarves weren’t as foolish as you thought, Badoo”, Megalomagna said jokingly.
Barur stopped and looked at the sword for a second, puzzled.
“Is yer sword always this disrespectful?” the dwarf asked Arzaak.
“I think it never learned what respect is”, Arzaak replied with a defeated expression on his face.
“That’s strange. I’m sure I felt a divine influence comin' from the sword when ye rescued me. It was no dwarven god, but it was certainly a deity of good”, Barur speculated.
“Those were just fireworks”, Megalomagna sidestepped. “Underground, focus on the underground.”
The dwarf just let out a grunt and continued to thump the ground with the butt of his hammer.
----------------------------------------
Barur makes a Wisdom (Perception) ability check (DC 12). Rolled 14. Succeeded.
----------------------------------------
"There most certainly is a secret entrance 'round here that can grant us access to Tyar-Besil", Barur noted as he peered at the runic inscriptions carved into the stone.
"Tyar-Besil?", Kali asked.
"The 'boveground kingdom of Besilmer suffered constant attacks from wicked trolls and giants, leadin' to the construction of the underground fortress city of Tyar-Besil", Barur explained.
"Look! This slab sinks when I step on it", Arzaak said, pointing at his foot.
"Careful with that! Ye don't know if it's a trap", Barur admonished.
“If there’s a trap, we should just trigger it and deal with whatever happens. We don’t have anyone who can find and disarm traps anyway”, Kali observed, before confidently sitting down on a boulder. Unexpectedly, it rolled back, sending her tumbling to the ground with a thud.
Barur and Arzaak couldn’t contain their laughter at the sight of the stern drow barbarian sprawled on the ground, cussing at the treacherous stone beneath her.
“There ye go”, Barur managed between chuckles. “I warned ye to beware of traps".
Scrambling to her feet and dusting herself off, Kali shot them a glare. “Stop fooling around. If you can find a passage underground, do it before the sun sets and we’re surrounded by more monsters”, she retorted, her annoyance palpable.
Barur let out a weary sigh, nodded in agreement and kept searching.
Barur makes a Wisdom (Perception) ability check (DC 12). Rolled 6. Failed.
----------------------------------------
Barur triggered a trap. Arrows fire from a secret compartment. All Party members must make a Dexterity (Acrobatics) saving throw (DC 13) or suffer 3d6 damage.
Kali (advantage): 5, 19. Saved.
Arzaak: 20. Saved.
Barur: 4. Failed. Barur suffers 15 damage.
* Barur HP: 27/42
----------------------------------------
"Barur! Are you okay?", Arzaak asked.
"Ah, this is nuthin'", Barur replied, brushing it off as a minor wound, although he was definitely hurt. "I'm not ready to join these dwarves yet", he said and let out a coarse laugh.
"You are clearly missing something here", Megalomagna suddenly interjected.
"What is it?", Barur asked, suspicious.
"There are dwarven runes everywhere, as you can see. Unless you're blind, in which case forget about it. I don't like blind or deaf people", the sword continued.
"Dethek runes. State yer point, will ye?", Barur requested, at the limit of his patience and politeness.
"Hairzak", Megalomania said. "Take your foot off the stone you’re standing on".
"What’s with the stone?", Arzaak replied. When he took his foot off, he noticed that there was a rune carved on the stone, in a shape reminiscent of the letter T written twice in sequence.
"That’s the number two written in dwarven language, isn’t it?", Megalomagna asked Barur.
"Ye. How did ye know?", the dwarf asked the sword, intrigued.
"Don’t underestimate my knowledge", the weapon retorted. "I'm older than you".
With a typical dwarf growl, Barur stopped paying attention to the sword and began to search for other symbols that indicated numbers in the dwarven alphabet.
"I’m not a dwarf, but I imagine it’s not as simple a password as 1234", Kali observed.
"Nay", Barur confirmed. "It’s not just a matter of solvin' a puzzle. You also need to know dwarven history in order to be granted access".
“I think this is more your area than ours, Barur”, Arzaak said. "I may be kind of a bookworm, but I seriously doubt I know more about dwarven history than you".
“I am a dwarf, but I'm no historian”, Barur replied. “Without mor' clues, I wun’t know where to start".
“If the password for this secret passage is numerical, perhaps it’s an important date”, Kali pondered. "Can't you guess by the style of architecture?".
“Maybe”, the dwarf responded. "Lemme think".
----------------------------------------
Barur makes an Intelligence (History) ability check (DC 13). His stonecunning racial trait gives him proficiency in the History skill and adds double his proficiency bonus to the check when related to stonework. Rolled 10. Succeeded.
----------------------------------------
"This stonework is extremely ancient", Barur asserted.
"Great. What year was Tyar-Besil founded?", Arzaak asked.
"If I remember correctly, 'round -4320 DR", Barur said, stroking his beard. "Besilmer, on the other hand, was founded in -4420 DR by Torhild Flametongue and his dwarves".
"So I guess we do have a start", Arzaak pointed out. "Let's try finding runes that mean four or three. If we are lucky, one of those dates will be the correct password".
As the sun started to set, the Party could hear the sound of something moving beneath the surface of the earth.
"There are predators stalking us, Kali said, her survival instincts kicking in. "We should hurry".
----------------------------------------
Kali makes a Wisdom (Perception) ability check (DC 15). Rolled 2. Failed.
Arzaak makes a Wisdom (Perception) ability check (DC 15). Rolled 10. Failed.
Barur makes a Wisdom (Perception) ability check (DC 15). Rolled 11. Succeeded.
----------------------------------------
"I found a thr—", before Barur could finish his sentence, two creatures resembling enormous legged worms burst from the ground. They had six legs ending in sharp hooks and powerful mandibles perfectly capable of snapping a small tree in half. Tough chitinous brown shells covered their bodies, except for their soft pink bellies. The monstrosities had glistening black eyes, small mouths lined with tiny rows of chitinous teeth, and two insect-like antennae.
----------------------------------------
Two ankhegs have appeared (39, 42 HP).
INITIATIVE ROLL:
* Kali: 14+2
* Barur: 12
* Ankheg 2: 6
* Ankheg 1: 1
* Arzaak: 1
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
"Stay back and let me handle these bugs", Kali said, great axe in hand.
Kali attacks Ankheg 1. Rolled 1. Missed.
"That was definitely not how you handle them bugs, barbarian friend", Barur said, chuckling, as he got ready to cast a spell.
Barur casts Guiding Bolt on Ankheg 2. Ankheg 2 takes 4d6: 9 radiant damage, and the next attack roll made against this target before the end of his next turn has advantage.
* Ankheg 2 HP: 33/42
----------------------------------------
Ankheg 2 attacks Barur with bite. Rolled 9. Missed.
Ankheg 1 attacks Kali and Arzaak with Acid Spray.
Kali makes a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw: 14. Succeeded.
Arzaak makes a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw: 20. Succeeded.
Both suffer 3d6 / 2: 5 acid damage.
* Kali HP: 33/38
* Arzaak HP: 26/31
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Ankheg 2 with advantage. Rolled 18, 2. Hit for 1d10+5: 15 force damage.
* Ankheg 2 HP: 18/42
----------------------------------------
ROUND 2
----------------------------------------
Kali activates Rage (1/3) and attacks Ankheg 1. Rolled 2. Missed.
Barur casts Sacred Flame on Ankheg 2.
Ankheg 2 makes a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw: 11. Failed. Suffered 1d8: 7 radiant damage.
* Ankheg 2 HP: 11/42
----------------------------------------
Ankheg 2 attacks Barur with bite. Rolled 14. Hit for 2d6+3: 10 slashing damage plus 1d6: 5 acid damage. Barur is grappled.
* Barur HP: 12/42
----------------------------------------
Ankheg 1 attacks Arzaak with bite. Rolled 17. Hit for 2d6+3: 12 slashing damage plus 1d6: 1 acid damage. Arzaak is grappled.
* Arzaak HP: 13/31
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Ankheg 2. Rolled 14. Hit for 1d10+5: 11 force damage.
* Ankheg 2 HP: 00/42
Ankheg 2 has been crushed by the blast.
Barur is no longer grappled.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 3
----------------------------------------
Kali uses Reckless Attack on Ankheg 1. Rolled 12, 12. Hit for 1d12+6: 14 slashing damage.
Barur uses Preserve Life. Restores 20 hit points divided among the creatures of his choosing. This feature can restore a creature to no more than half of its hit point maximum. Arzaak recovers 3 HP. Barur recovers 9 HP.
* Arzaak HP: 16/31
* Barur HP: 21/42
----------------------------------------
Ankheg 1 attacks Arzaak with advantage. Rolled 6, 18. Hit for 2d6+3: 12 slashing damage plus 1d6: 4 acid damage.
* Arzaak HP: 00/31
Arzaak has fallen unconscious.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 4
----------------------------------------
"Dammit, Hairzaak! This isn't the time to be taking a nap!", Megalomagna yelled.
"Do something if you care that much", Kali retorted as she lunged for the attack against the ankheg.
"I'm not a damn healer, y'know...", Megalomagna grumbled.
Kali uses Reckless Attack on Ankheg 1. Rolled 4, 18. Hit for 1d12+6: 16 slashing damage.
* Ankheg 1 HP: 23/39
----------------------------------------
Barur casts Cure Wounds on Arzaak for 2d8+8: 17 HP.
* Arzaak HP: 17/31
----------------------------------------
Ankheg 1 attacks Arzaak with advantage. Rolled 6, 18. Hit for 2d6+3: 6 slashing damage plus 1d6: 4 acid damage.
* Arzaak HP: 07/31
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast on Ankheg 1. Rolled 20. Critical hit for 2d10+5: 18 force damage.
* Ankheg 1 HP: 05/39
----------------------------------------
ROUND 5
----------------------------------------
Kali uses Reckless Attack on Ankheg 1. Rolled 15, 19. Hit for 1d12+6: 13 slashing damage.
* Ankheg 1 HP: -08/39
Ankheg 1 has been cut into pieces.
Arzaak is no longer grappled.
----------------------------------------
The Party has emerged victorious, defeating the ankhegs. Each Party member earns 1.800 XP for the defeated monsters in this encounter.
Arzaak has accumulated 4.990 + 1.800 = 6.790 XP in total.
* Arzaak has advanced from level 4 to level 5.
* Arzaak’s HP increased by 7 (max 38).
* Arzaak's proficiency bonus increased to +3.
* Arzaak's spell slot level increased to 3.
* Arzaak has learned the eldritch invocation Eyes of the Rune Keeper (can read all writing).
* Arzaak has learned the spell Dispel Magic plus the spells Blink and Plant Growth from the Archfey expanded list.
* Arzaak can cast the Darkness spell 1/day as a Tiefling trait.
* Eldritch Blast can now create two beams of force.
* Chill Touch now deals 2d8 damage.
* Poison Spray now deals 2d12 damage.
----------------------------------------
Kali has accumulated 4.620 + 1.800 = 6.440 XP in total.
----------------------------------------
Barur has accumulated 4.200 + 1.800 = 6.000 XP in total.
----------------------------------------
Stinger has accumulated 3.300 + 1.800 = 5.100 XP in total.
----------------------------------------
Megalomagna has advanced from level 4 to level 5.
* Wielder's Strength increases by 4 as long as he/she is attuned to Megalomagna. Arzaak’s Strength ability score adjusted to 12 (modifier +1).
* New primary ability unlocked - Beacon of Light. Can cast the Light spell (at will)
----------------------------------------
The following treasure has been found with the ankhegs:
* 34 copper pieces.
***
"I've just received a boon from my mistress", Arzaak said. "I can read the runes now".
"Yer...mistress?", Barur asked from under raised eyebrows.
"The entity that granted me my power. I'm not a wizard or a sorcerer. The magic I wield comes from her", Arzaak replied, looking at the palm of his hand.
Kali and Barur stared at him, unsure of what to say. Stinger broke the silence by letting out a high-pitched roar, indicating he was hungry.
"Ahem...right, let's get on with it. Stinger, you can have this", Arzaak said, tossing the pseudodragon a piece of meat.
"Now", he told his familiar, "stand on top of that stone by the pillar, and Barur will pull a lever to your right".
"Are ye sure?", the dwarf asked, skeptical.
"I am", Arzaak said, confident. "Kali, you step on that slab I was stepping on, and I will touch this stone here", he instructed as he peered at a pillar dotted with a spare block that looked like a giant button, carved with dwarven inscriptions and a symbol in the shape of a diamond with a cross on each end.
When everyone was in place, this "button" of sorts sunk into the pillar, and the ground started to shake beneath their feet.
"Well done, me horned friend", Barur said and gave a typical dwarf laugh.
"What did you do?", Kali asked Arzaak as a set of stairs revealed itself in front of them.
“I had a hunch that the builders of Tyar-Besil might honor Besilmer by using its founding date, 4420, as the password. Since the dwarven alphabet lacks a symbol for zero, I thought about the rune for twenty".
"That would require only three people to activate", Kali observed.
"That's the catch. There's a dwarven symbol in the shape of a diamond with a cross on each end that means 'safe place'. I would never know that before this boon I've received", Arzaak explained.
"Very nice explanation, now can we please go down the stairs? I don't want to end up in a giant insect's belly again anytime soon", Megalomagna vented.
"Again?", Arzaak asked, puzzled, as they went down the stairs.
"It's a long story", the sword replied.
As soon as the adventurers finished descending, the entrance closed behind them.
"It seems there's no turning back now", Kali said, as unfazed by the darkness as her comrades.
"I know were in the middle of an urgent mission but...can we take a short rest?", Arzaak asked, tired and battered from last battle.
"I agree. Them big insects hit hard", Barur added.
"Just one hour, okay? This place seems safe but nowhere really is", Kali said.
----------------------------------------
The Party has taken a short rest.
Arzaak has recovered 27 HP (4 Hit Dice).
* Arzaak HP: 34/38
Kali has recovered 5 HP (1 Hit Dice).
* Kali HP: 38/38
Barur has recovered 20 HP (2 Hit Dice).
* Barur HP: 41/42
***
"All right. I can lead us from here", Barur said as he took the lead through the stony passages. "This may be a place I've never been befor', but it still feels a little like home".
Although newer than Besilmer, Tyar-Besil was still a complex of ancient dwarven ruins. Crumbling pillars and collapsed tunnels spoke of a glorious past now lost to time. The air was heavy with a sense of abandonment, broken only by the occasional drip of water from a leaky ceiling.
Despite the decay, there was a haunting beauty to the place, such as the intricate carvings adorning the walls. The amazing craftsmanship was still evident in every detail, with scenes of epic battles painstakingly etched into the stone with great precision.
Beautiful patterns of flora and fauna intertwined with the scenes of battle, adding a touch of whimsy to the otherwise somber tableau. To the Party, it felt as if the very essence of the dwarven people had been immortalized in stone, a testament to their strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit.
Stinger suddenly stiffened as its keen senses detected a source of noise, and a flicker of concern crossed its intelligent eyes.
"Humans", the pseudodragon transmitted to his master via telepathy.
"Humans, huh...", he mumbled. "Let's hide in the shadows and find out what their intentions are".
***
"Keep it down and stay alert", Brian said. "These tunnels are perfect for laying low, but remember, we’re carrying blink dog pelts—rare and risky".
"The way they shimmer, even in this dim light…but hey, where do we go from here? Who’s going to buy something this hot without tipping off the 'lawmakers?'", Roland asked with a chuckle.
"My thoughts exactly. Blink dogs aren't just any prey. We’re talking about magical stuff here. If word gets out, it’s not just some jail time for us—it can be a lot worse", Winston added.
"Poachers...", Kali muttered, her lilac eyes blazing.
"Have they killed blink dogs just for their pelts?", Arzaak thought to himself.
"Disguises and aliases, that’s our play. The underground magic market—there are collectors in Luskan who’d pay a fortune and never ask where those came from", Jean said, greed palpable in his voice.
"Maybe we should think bigger, like overseas. I have contacts in Calimport who don't give a damn about this law crap. They’d give us a king's ransom for the pelts", Darryl suggested.
"I’m leaning towards Darryl’s idea", Brian said. "Overseas might just be the ticket to throwing off any trail. Jean, you’re on alias duty. Darryl, feel out your contacts, but keep it vague—no direct mentions of what we’ve got".
"What about the local enforcers?", Roland asked, apprehensive. "Any word on the stupid rangers or mage guilds getting wind of this?".
"I’m handling that. I’ve got some guards who owe me. I’ll send them chasing shadows. By the time they’re onto us, we’ll be long gone", Brian responded.
"Dirty business this one they have", Barur noted, his demeanor very stern.
"We’re going to need more than just good planning for all this—transport, bribes, maybe magical cloaking. It’s going to cost", Winston observed.
"Money’s been set aside exactly for reasons like this. You’ll get what you need upfront. We do this job clean—no tracks, no traces", Brian asserted.
"Let's kill them", Kali snarled, holding back her rage.
"Alright, keep quiet and keep moving. This isn’t just about stealth—it’s about survival", Brian alerted. "We sell these pelts and we’re made, but only if we stick to the shadows like the dogs we hunted".
"Let's kill them", Arzaak agreed, clenching his fists.
Barur let out a long, deep grunt, stroking his beard thoughtfully as he watched his comrades talk, unconvinced that they were making the right call.
As the poachers came closer, the light from their torches became visible. The Party got ready to ambush them.
----------------------------------------
Kali makes a Dexterity (Stealth) ability check: 15. Succeeded.
"I think killing humans could be a very bad omen, y'know?", Megalomagna said out loud, attracting everyone's attention and ruining the ambush.
"Damn you Megalomagna!", Arzaak exclaimed.
"Who's there?", Brian, the leader of the poacher band, asked. "Who are those people? A dwarf, a tiefling and...a drow?".
"It doesn't matter who we are", Kali said, between her teeth. "Not to you dead men anyway".
----------------------------------------
Poacher Leader Brian (51 HP) and his henchmen Roland (10 HP), Winston (12 HP), Jean (16 HP) and Darryl (18 HP) appeared.
INITIATIVE ROLL:
* Henchmen Jean: 20+2
* Barur: 14
* Arzaak: 13
* Henchmen Winston: 11+2
* Henchmen Roland: 8+2
* Kali: 9
* Henchmen Darryl: 7+2
* Poacher Leader Brian: 4+3
----------------------------------------
ROUND 1
----------------------------------------
Jean attacks Barur (AC 16) with light crossbow. Rolled 20. Critical hit for 2d8+2: 12 piercing damage.
* Barur HP: 29/42
----------------------------------------
Barur attacks Jean with Sacred Flame. Rolled 14. Hit for 1d8: 2 radiant damage.
* Jean: 14/16 HP
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast (two beams) on Darryl (AC 14). Rolled 13, 11. Two hits for 1d10+5 each: 12, 11 force damage.
* Darryl: -05/18 HP
Darryl has fallen unconscious.
----------------------------------------
Winston attacks Arzaak with scimitar. Rolled 15. Hit for 1d6+2: 5 slashing damage.
* Arzaak HP: 29/38
----------------------------------------
Arzaak uses Megalomagna's reaction to attack Winston. Rolled 15. Hit for 1d8+2: 8 slashing damage.
* Winston HP: 04/12
----------------------------------------
Kali uses Reckless Attack on Brian (AC 15). Rolled 8, 11. Hit for 1d12+6: 15 slashing damage.
* Brian: 36/51 HP
----------------------------------------
"Boss, these guys are dangerous. Especially that devil-faced one with the tiny dragon", Winston said.
"I know. Everyone, focus on him. I'll take on this savage girl here. I love the hot-headed ones!", Brian said, his eyes full of malice.
Brian attacks Kali (AC 14) with scimitar and dagger (advantage). Rolled 5, 5. Missed. Rolled 16, 5. Hit for 1d4+3 / 2: 2 piercing damage.
* Kali HP: 36/38
----------------------------------------
ROUND 2
----------------------------------------
Jean attacks Arzaak (AC 11) with light crossbow. Rolled 4. Missed.
Barur attacks Jean with Sacred Flame. Rolled 1. Missed.
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast (two beams) on Jean (AC 14). Rolled 1, 13. One hit for 1d10+5: 9 force damage.
* Jean HP: 05/16
----------------------------------------
Winston attacks Arzaak with scimitar. Rolled 13. Hit for 1d6+2: 7 slashing damage.
* Arzaak HP: 22/38
----------------------------------------
Arzaak uses Megalomagna's reaction to attack Winston. Rolled 6. Missed.
Roland attacks Arzaak with light crossbow. Rolled 5. Missed.
Kali uses Reckless Attack on Brian. Rolled 5, 20. Critical Hit for 2d12+6: 20 slashing damage.
* Brian: 16/51 HP
----------------------------------------
Brian attacks Kali (AC 14) with scimitar and dagger (advantage). Rolled 4, 5. Missed. Rolled 12, 4. Hit for 1d4+3 / 2: 2 piercing damage.
* Kali HP: 34/38
----------------------------------------
ROUND 3
----------------------------------------
Jean attacks Arzaak (AC 11) with light crossbow. Rolled 4. Missed.
Barur attacks Jean with Sacred Flame. Rolled 16. Hit for 1d8: 8 radiant damage.
* Jean HP: -03/16
Jean has fallen unconscious.
----------------------------------------
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast (two beams) on Winston (AC 14). Rolled 12, 2. One hit for 1d10+5: 9 force damage.
* Winston HP: -05/12
Winston has fallen unconscious.
----------------------------------------
Roland attacks Arzaak with light crossbow. Rolled 2. Missed.
Kali uses Reckless Attack on Brian (AC 15). Rolled 9, 6. Hit for 1d12+6: 17 slashing damage.
* Brian: -01/51 HP
Brian has fallen unconscious.
----------------------------------------
ROUND 4
----------------------------------------
"Wh-who are you people? Why are you so strong?", Roland stammered.
"We told you already", Arzaak said, his eyes gleaming with bloodlust. "You're dead, so it doesn't matter".
"Wait! I surrender! Please don't kill me! Here, take the pelts, take my money, take whatever you want. I have a family! I can't die here!", Roland begged, dropping to his knees.
"If you care so much about your family, you should have taken a real job instead of killing innocent animals for profit", Arzaak remarked.
"Please don't kill me... please!", the henchman continued, desperate.
"I dun't feel comfortable killing a man who's begging for his life", Barur declared.
"My thoughts exactly!", Megalomagna added. "There are courts of law for people who kill blink dogs. Killing them is not okay. The Gods wouldn't like it".
"What are you, a god's emissary or something?", Arzaak asked Megalomagna. "This is the real world. If the gods cared so much, those blink dogs would not be dead. I won't wait for divine providence".
Arzaak casts Eldritch Blast (two beams) on Roland (AC 14) with advantage. Rolled 3, 13. Rolled 5, 19. Two hits for 1d10+5 each: 14, 11 force damage.
* Roland HP: -15/10
Roland is dead.
----------------------------------------
As Arzaak's fingers curled, channeling the dark energies that swirled around them, a bolt of black and violet energy screamed through the air. The blast struck the kneeling figure squarely in the head. In a horrific moment where time seemed to pause, Roland's eyes widened in a final glimpse of terror.
The impact was catastrophic, searing flesh and bone with unnatural force. The henchman's head snapped back violently, a gory spectacle as the energy ravaged through, leaving charred, smoking remnants. His lifeless body slumped to the ground with a thud that echoed ominously through the silence that followed.
After a few seconds of silence and a long sigh, Barur spoke.
"What are ye planning to do with the others? Are ye gonna kill them in cold blood too?".
"Leave them", Arzaak answered. "If they survive, let this be a lesson on what happens when you kill innocent fey".
----------------------------------------
The Party has emerged victorious, defeating Poacher Leader Brian and his henchmen. Each member has earned 400 + 800 = 1.200 XP for the defeated enemies in this encounter.
* Arzaak has accumulated 6.790 + 1.200 = 7.990 XP in total.
----------------------------------------
* Kali has accumulated 6.440 + 1.200 = 8.640 XP in total.
* Kali has advanced from level 4 to level 5.
* Kali’s HP increased by 8 (max 46).
* Kali's proficiency bonus increased to +3.
* Kali can now attack twice per turn.
* Kali's speed has increased by 10 feet when not wearing heavy armor.
* Kali can cast the Darkness spell 1/day as a Drow trait.
----------------------------------------
* Barur has accumulated 6.000 + 1.200 = 7.200 XP in total.
* Barur has advanced from level 4 to level 5.
* Barur’s HP increased by 9 (max 51).
* Barur's proficiency bonus increased to +3.
* Barur has learned the feature Destroy Undead.
* Sacred Flame cantrip now deals 2d8 damage.
* Barur has learned the spells Beacon of Hope and Revivify from the Life Domain list and the cleric spells Mass Healing Word and Remove Curse (3rd level).
----------------------------------------
* Stinger has accumulated 5.100 + 1.200 = 6.300 XP in total.
***
"Let me just ask you a question", Megalomagna said to Arzaak as they walked through the tunnel.
"What?".
"Since when have you become a paladin of nature, protector of the fey?", the sword asked.
"I'm not a paladin nor a protector. But it wasn't fair what those humans were doing. I don't care about human justice. I do what I think I should", Arzaak retorted.
"You cared nothing about the fey until not long ago. What's going on? Is Tasha doing this to you?", Megalomagna inquired.
"This has nothing to do with her. You're the one who's always pushing me to save everyone. What are you babbling about now?", Arzaak replied, growing impatient.
"You wouldn't understand. Let me just say this: killing people who are begging for mercy won't do you any good. Especially when you have a pair of horns on your head", Megalomagna lectured.
"Look, Megalomagna. I know you're powerful and probably too special for a guy like me. I even feel inexplicably stronger physically, and I believe that's your doing. But if you keep telling me what to do, this is not gonna work", Arzaak vented.
"This has to work, lil fella", the sword replied. "There's more at stake than you can imagine".
"Well, too bad then. I don't give a damn about the stakes", Arzaak said, to what the sword decided not to respond.
----------------------------------------
Day 6
----------------------------------------
As the ragtag Party approached the gates of Yartar, the bustling river town seemed welcoming with its vibrant market cries and the clatter of wagon wheels on cobblestones.
In their midst, Kali, standing out in the crowd with her skin the color of a moonless night, carried a sack containing the blink dog pelts they took from the poachers over her shoulder, her lilac eyes wary and calculating.
Arzaak, his horns elegantly curved and his long tail flicking with restrained annoyance, trailed just a step behind, his golden eyes glowing faintly with eldritch power.
Bringing up the rear was Barur, the stout dwarf cleric, stroking his beard as he scanned the surroundings with typical dwarven reservation.
As the group neared the city gates, they were halted not by the usual city guard but by a cadre of heavily armed soldiers wearing mismatched armor. The air around them crackled not with magic but with tension. The captain of the guards—a burly man with a scar on his left eye—stepped forward, blocking their path with a sneer.
“State your business”, he demanded, his gaze lingering on each of the adventurers with undisguised suspicion, his hand resting on the pommel of his sword.
"We are on a mission", Arzaak said, decided to act as the Party's spokesperson. "There is a dangerous monster ravaging the High Woods and we need to ask this city's governor for help".
“Ha!”, another guard chortled, stepping up to join his leader. “Look at this weird bunch! Where did you crawl out from? The sewers of Waterdeep?”.
The adventurers held their tongues, exchanging glances that spoke volumes of their growing irritation. Sensing their reluctance to speak the truth, a younger guard, adorned with clerical symbols, began murmuring a spell, his hands weaving through the air. Seconds later, his eyes opened wide with revelation.
“They’ve traveled not from the Evermoor Way, but from the southern bank of the River Dessarin!”, he exclaimed.
"Really? How did you cross the river?", the captain asked, intrigued.
"We owe you no explanations", Kali retorted, tired of being subjected to mockery. "Let us pass".
"Or what?", another guard asked, defiant.
"Wait", the captain commanded, raising his hand to interrupt his inferior. "You, drow woman. What is it you're carrying inside that sack?".
"Evidence o' poaching", Barur declared in Kali's stead. "We will show these to the competent authorities".
The guard’s eyes narrowed, flickering briefly with something that might have been fear or perhaps complicity, and a subtle, cold smile crossed his lips. He unsheathed his rapier and pointed it at Kali.
"Show me this evidence. Now!", the captain commanded.
"Arzaak, let's—".
"No, Kali. Show them the evidence", Arzaak told her.
"Stinger, go hide in your pocket dimension, quickly", he whispered to his familiar, finally understanding what Megalomagna was talking about. It seems the act of killing humans, no matter how wicked they be, will always be a taboo that will come back to bite you in the ankle. Especially if you are a Tiefling.
Reluctantly, Kali loosened the top of the sack to reveal beautiful golden fur of blink dog pelts.
A murmur went through the guards. The leader’s eyes flashed dangerously. "You are under arrest. Drop your weapons!".
The adventurers exchanged confused glances. “Arrested on which grounds? We are not the poachers”, Arzaak protested. “We stopped them".
"And where are they right now?", the captain asked, his sword threateningly pointed towards Arzaak.
"They were usin' an underground tunnel, under the river", Barur said, grasping his holy symbol.
"There are no tunnels under the river!", the captain shouted. "Drop your weapons now!".
Just as the tension reached a peak and Kali started to give in to her rage, the captain snapped his fingers and one of the guards hurled a glass bottle at their feet. It shattered, releasing a hissing, noxious gas that quickly enveloped them.
----------------------------------------
Kali, Arzaak and Barur (advantage) must make a Constitution saving throw (DC 15).
Kali rolled 15. Succeeded.
Arzaak rolled 4, 7. Failed. Arzaak has lost consciousness.
Barur rolled 17, 8. Succeeded.
----------------------------------------
"Ether essence?", Barur asked, bothered by the poisonous gas but mostly unfazed while Arzaak coughed and wheezed, his limbs growing heavy and unresponsive, his consciousness fading until he fell to the ground.
"You fucking bastards!", Kali raged and lunged for the attack.
"Michael, Dustin, do it", the captain ordered, and the first guard began to intone a spell directed at Barur while the other took out a wand and pointed it at Kali.
----------------------------------------
Dustin makes a ranged attack roll against Kali: 18. Kali is paralyzed.
Barur makes a Wisdom saving throw (DC 13): 3. Failed. Barur has fallen unconscious.
----------------------------------------
Unable to move as the paralysis took hold of Kali while Arzaak and Barur were knocked asleep, the Party was easily overpowered and bound by the guards.
Hours later, in the dim, cold cell of Yartar’s prison, the clanking of keys heralded the arrival of the captain of the guard. His face was twisted with rage as he stared down at the imprisoned trio.
“Roland was my cousin, and you", he pointed at Arzaak, “killed him in cold blood. We have evidence that he was kneeling when an energy blast shattered his skull and sent pieces of his brain splattered across the floor".
"You said there were no underground tunnels", Arzaak mocked, his golden eyes blazing with anger.
The captain leaned close to the Tiefling, his breath foul with the stench of malice. “You hellspawns think you're so smart, but this time you messed with the wrong people. For the crime of fey poaching, you and your friends will hang at dawn. Consider yourselves fortunate it will be by the noose and not by my hand".
What Arzaak failed to realize during his unwelcome poisonous slumber was that the captain of the guards harbored a longing far surpassing mere vengeance or concern. More than seeking "justice" for his cousin's death or covering up a possible crime of smuggling blink dog pelts, the captain was consumed by a covetous desire for the splendid, wondrous longsword bedecked with gems that the Tiefling no longer carried at his waist.
TO BE CONTINUED...