Epic Level Game - Chapter 3

[DM7581]

As you know, threads are to be closed after 50 pages, so we are on to thread 3. Here is the link to the previous threads just in case you need a reference:

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?292667-Rob-s-Epic-Level-Campaign

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?466402-Rob-s-Epic-Level-Campaign-Continues!

Re-introduction to forum play:

Welcome to Rob’s Epic-Level D&D 5th edition play-by-post campaign! All who are reading this, players old and new, should abide by the following rules:


This forum uses the honor system. Die rolling is an integral part of D&D, but we are all mature enough to know that cheating helps no one. That being said, keep it honest.

In light of keeping pace, reactive rolls such as saves, checks, and the like will by rolled by myself unless the player takes it upon themself to make note of it as a part of their action.

Due to the nature of epic gameplay, the campaign will become a bit more story-based. Menial encounters will not be emphasized or resolved through dice, though I will do my best to keep this a die-rolling RPG as much as possible.

Be nice and respectful toward myself and each other. DM rulings are final, so no arguing in that department. I know magic at high levels is absurd in many areas, so some ad hoc, story-based modifications may be made in this area.

Min/maxers, munckins, and rollplayers need not apply! Yes, everyone wants their character to be the best at what they do, but if there is a rules loophole that becomes increasingly or regularly abused (I’m thinking Time Stop/Delayed Blast Fireball for insane amounts of damage, making warriors obsolete), know that this will be addressed, in or out of game for sake of balance, realism, and most importantly, fun for everybody.

In combat, I will ask for a single initiative roll, modified by individual modifiers for to simplify initiative. Monsters will act as a group (or in groups depending on their modifiers) as well. When players declare their actions, please include any and ALL die rolls that would accompany that action (to hit AND damage for example). As each player declares their action(s), I will detail how it plays out (hits, misses, etc.) in dramatic, descriptive fashion. The opposite is true of my role; DM die rolls being secret, I will only display effects descriptively.

Out of combat situations will work similarly. Players can declare their intentions/actions (again, with appropriate die rolls, i.e. walking around a village investigating [27 Gather Information]). I will describe flavorfully all resolutions and outcomes.

To get started, I will need everyone to message me their characters (privately or through e-mail) so that I may have all necessary stats handy (HP, AC, Saves, Skills, etc.).


This all being said, where did we leave off…?

--

It has come to the part's attention that the current pantheon of gods may either be dead or are dying. Asmodeus, who claims to be the sole remaining Arch-Devil has confirmed this, as well as informed the party that only Demogorgon and Orcus remain among the Demon Lords.

The planes have started to shift and collapse. This has affected the outer and elemental planes, but nothing has seemed to affect the prime material plane, although hordes of undead still run rampant across the countryside.

To combat this, Crassus has rapidly expanded the once small kingdom of Cypress, not only across the entire island, but now unto the main continent. His intentions are to unite all under one banner to stand as a single civilized nation.

Meanwhile, Bear Ghost has taken a different approach. He has acquired a number of monstrous tribes in the wilds and has begun to expand and fortify his base.

While the group navigates their options, Xavier continues to pursue oneness and now seeks to regain his sorcercous body. Dr. Nimm continues to study his mysterious Tome of the Keeper, while Arcivus tries his best to remain a vigilant symbol of hope and righteousness in these dark times.

You are about to depart Bear Ghost's fortress toward the ancient white dragon lair in hopes of acquiring the necessary components for Xavier's transformation. Teleroth Baine is with you, as is Kyle, though Kyle will remain with Bear Ghost and the tribe while you are away.

Any other business or are we off to the fabled Doom Blizzard Peaks once again?

--

Other quests include:



Strained Magic: While magic now seems to be operating normally, some practitioners seem to have lost the ability to wield it. This was noticed at the school erected in Frostdale, but has not been fully investigated yet.

Guardian's Past: Guardian, the Warforged warrior along with his psionic friend, Ridion were awaken from having been entrapped over 10000 years ago. They were betrayed by Nehlrus, a premier champion of their day as well as another mysterious figure speculated to now be the mighty lich known only as The Black Scourge. Teleroth Baine, a "good" lich claims to be preparing for his return, as he claims, The Black Scourge is his father. Nehlrus has returned, now an undead champion, and even claimed the Sword of Kas, a powerful, evil artifact. You all suspect that this quest and the undead threat (Call to Arms, below) may be tied in somewhere.
UPDATE: Nehlrus' forces sieged Teleroth's keep. Guardian fell in the fray, so the secret of his past may never be revealed, though it should be noted that the moment he was destroyed, the earth shook and a loud roar was heard miles off into the distance (due north). This roar was that of the legendary Tarrasque, which had been sealed by Azereus only to be released now and wreak havoc on the world. You were able to stop it and now see that followers of Orcus had been orchestrating its moves.

Dying Gods: While "confirmed" by Asmodeus, he may be omitting some truths. Regardless, the divine connection once felt by those who would worship has been lost, aside from a few select devout practitioners. The last living Solar that Xavier encountered expressed a similar concern.

Call to Arms Against the Undead: King Crassus of Cypress has issued a call to arms for all willing and able warriors to join his cause, as an undead epidemic has spread across the realm. It has been said that he has secured the entire island of the Kingdom of Cypress and has arrived upon the mainland. Rurik, among others, was last heard to be joining his ranks.
UPDATE: His kingdom seems overly policed and strict. This may be due tot he stress of ruling a kingdom of such size, but Crassus does eem different than Xavier remembers him.

Tribal Expansion: Bear Ghost has reclaimed his tribe from the wicked green dragon Garyxkilla. He has now expanded the presence of his tribe by recruiting and conquering many other monstrous tribes, including goblins, kobolds, giants, gnolls, and the like. The fact that he keeps "evil" company has not been addressed yet, but may be of concern.

Alchemical Rival: Vyncis Nere, an old acquaintance of Dr. Nimm appeared abruptly with an airship of his own, to once again pester Nimm's work. He was ultimately embarrassed when his minion fell to Nimm's and took his leave, but how he found you and what he may be up to remains cause for suspicion.
UPDATE: Ruxium was present during the siege of Teleroth's keep, but Vyncis stayed out of the fray-- or at least out of sight. This is likely not the last you've seen of him...



And as requested, some important NPCs:




Having witnessed her entire family massacred by goblins, Leena and the wolf cub who she named Reli after her fallen brother Aurelios, were among the very few survivors of her elven community. She swore to avenge their deaths and began a campaign spilled with blood and hatred. She took down camp after camp, ultimately finding that goblins were simply pawns of many a giant and dragon, who she swore to slay as well. She has become a fierce protector of the wild, her elven brethren, and looks to maintain a sense of balance as the hordes of undead threaten the very essence of life in the realm. The ever expanding kingdom of Crassus seems to be irksome as well.
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a273/darindarksmith/DnD/Female-ElfRanger02.jpg (http://s13.photobucket.com/user/darindarksmith/media/DnD/Female-ElfRanger02.jpg.html)



Born from humble beginnings as little more than hired help, the now famed warrior grew in power when he was pronounced the first king of the quaint town of Cypress. Since his crowning, he has split his time adventuring and growing his kingdom, uniting all villages on the island under a single banner and has now taken up the arduous task of tackling the widespread undead plague even outside of his island. He is a powerful and highly skilled warrior, known for his near-impenetrable defense and is often seen flying on his signature carpet. His kingdom has now conquered the entire island and now has spread onto the main continent of the realm, with each village being claimed for Cypress and the defense of the realm.
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xtwRvhcGhQY/U9t72u_30BI/AAAAAAAAAJo/eYYL3y5ME1M/s1600/D&D_Shadow_Fighter.png



One of many bastard children to a powerful orc chieftain, Bear Ghost, whose name was taken for his strength and fearlessness (as strong as a bear and not afraid of a ghost), is a savage warrior who grew to embrace his primal, berserk nature. Oftentimes a liability on the battlefield, it is said that he once slew a Titan with but a single blow. He has since returned to his people only to find them worshiping dragon gods over the powerful Kord and means to right this by way of combat. He now leads a mixed tribe of human and monstrous creatures, many of which are known to be outright evil in nature.
http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/18/0c/17/180c178c254629d8763b4fd06c97b718.jpg



Once a snobby, lowly cleric of Pelor who met his demise by way of his own cockiness, Christopher has claimed to have been brought before Pelor himself in the afterlife as a warrior chosen of the light. His return to the mortal realm was mysterious, though always welcome, as he was always a force to be reckoned with in his deity's plans in thwarting the forces of Nerull and the undead. He has recently gone into solitude, as the light of Pelor has been dimmed in current times, raising a number of questions for all who believe. He has last been seen back at the island of Cypress, his place of birth, healing the sick and trying to restore hope to the broken people there.
http://www.arcadequartermaster.com/capcom/ddtod/ddtod_cleric.png



An old friend of both Bear Ghost and Artemis, Kyle tends to always speak last, if ever at all. Constantly lurking in the shadows, his ability to vanish always came in good use when Bear Ghost's rage was too much for him to control. He was last heard to have traveled to the far east seeking to further master his art. Reunited with the party, he lives up to his legendary stealth and will serve as a reliable addition when called upon.
http://rhazetsdungeonsanddragons.weebly.com/uploads/1/6/3/4/1634517/6485904.jpg



Originally having ventured alongside Bear Ghost and Kyle, Artemis found himself out of sorts lurking the dungeons and the wild, much preferring a stocked library instead. A diviner, he prides himself on the study of all things academic as well as the arcane and even has taken it upon himself to fashion a few magical trinkets from time to time. He became a leader in the legendary Academy-- a floating fortress known only to the most inquisitive of minds, only for it to have fallen to assaults by devils, demons, and even dragons. He means to return to help rebuild but has taken an interest in the failing magic in the realm and has offered his assistance to the party in further exploring the situation. He has now returned to help rebuild The Academy, where he remains a resource for the party if ever in time of need.
http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab339/rms7581/ad_zpsklsuib5w.png (http://s877.photobucket.com/user/rms7581/media/ad_zpsklsuib5w.png.html)



Tutor to Arcivus, Rurik had even squired Sir Ian before he turned to evil. A warrior through and through, Rurik has made it his life's goal to protect his people and vanquish evil. Whether this evil be fiend, undead, or giant, Rurik can be found at the forefront alongside his griffon companion, Windgore, in cleansing the land. He has recently joined the ranks of King Crassus' army in purging the undead in the main continent.
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/21482646/images/1352373057286.png



Claimed to have been sired by the Archlich known as the Black Scourge in his mortal years, Teleroth has taken a vow to fight fire with fire, harnessing the powers of undeath in his quest. He admits that he knows little of his father, yet stands ready to oppose him wherever or whenever he may appear with an undead army of his own in the making. His keep now destroyed, he will venture with the party and then likely want to return to solitude and rebuild his forces.
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tAYQ_eX3pP4/UO4KYEBsQBI/AAAAAAAADVI/UMsbJSaUjN0/s1600/wow_pvp_warlock_set_maby_by_nightlybrian212.jpg



A mysterious mage, Fell has been entwined in the dealings of fiends and undead alike, yet his motives seem uncertain. Now an ally, his goals seem to be aligned with the party's at the moment, even offering his assistance in Dr. Nimm's airship. The air of suspicion that surrounds him, however, is unmistakable as he seems to answer to and beseech an unknown dark power. This power was revealed to be none other than Asmodeus himself. When asked to be released of his pact, his wish was fulfilled-- and Erick von Cunning II -- Fell's true name, burst into flame and experienced a gruesome and painful demise.
http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab339/rms7581/fell_zpsvywfvqab.png (http://s877.photobucket.com/user/rms7581/media/fell_zpsvywfvqab.png.html)



A warrior of the past, Guardian, once the first of his kind, is now the last of his kind-- an ancient relic lost throughout the ages. He was turned to stone by a powerful and mysterious curse that was lifted once the powerful Elemental Orbs were brought near his presence. With vague memories only now returning to him thanks in part to his old companion Ridion having been released from a similar curse, his sole existence now is to prevent the dark warrior Nehlrus, a former companion and even tutor who was seduced by evil, from attempting to revive the Black Scourge who came to power some 1000 years ago. It was last revealed that Guardian was the final key in the sealed Tarrasque, with his death resulting in the beast's return.
http://cdn.obsidianportal.com/assets/40610/Warforged.jpg



A psion lost in time similar to Guardian, his powerful mind was able to maintain much better recollection of events that occurred in the past. According to Ridion, Nehlrus, a powerful warrior companion slew Azereus, their fourth adventuring companion and one of the first of the prominent mages of the time in his decent to darkness in following the Black Scourge. The curse placed on Ridion and Guardian by the Black Scourge remains a mystery and now that they are free of it, keep a vigilant eye in Nehlrus' next move. He fell in battle during the assault on Teleroth's keep, but was able to keep psionics alive in Xavier's new form.
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bA0v-M8DhqY/ULL-ZopTP8I/AAAAAAAABzw/pTjJ_ZoV6HI/s1600/monks.jpg



Once a noble and skilled warrior, Nehlrus was seduced by the dark Black Scourge and was directed to slay the powerful mage Azereus. Ridion and Guardian were spared in suspended animation, just as Nehlrus acquired the fabled Sword of Kas. It is speculated by Ridion that his goal in amassing undead allies will somehow bring the Black Scourge back from the lower planes to once again wreak havoc among the land of the living. He was finally destroyed during the assault on Teleroth's keep, but it is uncertain whether that is the last you will see of him.
http://images.forwallpaper.com/files/thumbs/preview/89/894167__death-knight_p.jpg



A powerful and ancient practitioner of the arcane, very little is known of this lich other than he has ties with Teleroth Baine and existed some 1000 years ago, having recruited the warrior Nehlrus among his ranks. He was defeated in battle some years ago by the party, but a lich's death is seldom permanent. His return has been speculated by many, but is yet to be confirmed. Now known to have been the Archmage, Azereus and father of Teleroth Baine, many of his agents have sought his return, but have been foiled at every turn by the party.
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2013/06/1360005803-3.jpg



Let us use this first post as a reference for anything that you would like to be remembered as a part of the story. I can always edit the post itself to update content such as new or completed quest items and such.

[Dr_Nimm]

How do I get email notifications for this new thread?

[Dr_Nimm]

I think we're ready to head out. We take the Skylance low and slow due to the weather. This will be good training for Alwor.

[Ketiara]

I think we're ready to head out. We take the Skylance low and slow due to the weather. This will be good training for Alwor.

Still need to know how many speed pots I should note on my sheet.

[Dr_Nimm]

Still need to know how many speed pots I should note on my sheet.

You mean celerity or expeditious retreat?

DM: How fast can I crank out 3 speed pots?

[Xavier Alexis]

"Change of plans. Upon further reflection, I would like to seek out the Silver Dragon in the area. I do not wish to slaughter nor use evil dragons to create my body."

[DM7581]

You mean celerity or expeditious retreat?

DM: How fast can I crank out 3 speed pots?

Over the course of the week, 1 potion of speed or 3 expeditious retreat.

[Dr_Nimm]

Over the course of the week, 1 potion of speed or 3 expeditious retreat.

There you go Archie

[Ketiara]

There you go Archie

Awsome... are we still going to the white dragon or the silver one now?

[Dr_Nimm]

Awsome... are we still going to the white dragon or the silver one now?

Xavier wants a silver now. Maybe he will be less indecisive when he gets his magic back!

[Xavier Alexis]

Xavier wants a silver now. Maybe he will be less indecisive when he gets his magic back!

"Forgive my indecisiveness. I have simply concluded I would prefer to consult with a noble and good dragon first. I believe this to be the more logical choice given the options presented to us."

[DM7581]

"Forgive my indecisiveness. I have simply concluded I would prefer to consult with a noble and good dragon first. I believe this to be the more logical choice given the options presented to us."

You all are outside the camp, near the Skylance, discussing your plans. A bit indecisive, at the very least, the giants will not be accompanying you, but now you are wondering just where a powerful silver dragon might be...

What is all this talk about dragons?

Suddenly a familiar voice catches your attention, followed by a low, but non-aggressive growl.

You all look around to see Leena stepping out from out of the forest, with her loyal companion, Reli at her side.

Leena: I came here a few days ago, just to see what was going on... I may have to have words with your friend Bear Ghost regarding the company he keeps...

She considers goblins and orcs to be mortal enemies.

I have chosen not to reveal myself to him just yet, if just to see if there is a method behind this madness... but is something that should not go unaddressed. Are you aware that his tribe has been marauding the countryside and sacking individual cities?

Now that you think of it, and though you did not get a good look, the goblins attacking the last little hamlet you saved from the tarrasque MIGHT have been a part of his tribe, though they were miles away...

It is no matter. I would be willing to help you track a good dragon in the mountains if you would promise to talk some sense into your "friend..."

[Dr_Nimm]

"Your hatred of dragons is irrational and bordering psychopathic. I wasn't aware you thought any of them good. How do I know you won't try to murder the dragon?"

[Xavier Alexis]

You all are outside the camp, near the Skylance, discussing your plans. A bit indecisive, at the very least, the giants will not be accompanying you, but now you are wondering just where a powerful silver dragon might be...

What is all this talk about dragons?

Suddenly a familiar voice catches your attention, followed by a low, but non-aggressive growl.

You all look around to see Leena stepping out from out of the forest, with her loyal companion, Reli at her side.

Leena: I came here a few days ago, just to see what was going on... I may have to have words with your friend Bear Ghost regarding the company he keeps...

She considers goblins and orcs to be mortal enemies.

I have chosen not to reveal myself to him just yet, if just to see if there is a method behind this madness... but is something that should not go unaddressed. Are you aware that his tribe has been marauding the countryside and sacking individual cities?

Now that you think of it, and though you did not get a good look, the goblins attacking the last little hamlet you saved from the tarrasque MIGHT have been a part of his tribe, though they were miles away...

It is no matter. I would be willing to help you track a good dragon in the mountains if you would promise to talk some sense into your "friend..."

"Leena, I can certainly understand your feelings on the company Bear Ghost keeps. However, we are in unique times that require old hatreds to be put aside for the greater good so I must advise against violence at this time. For now, we must remain on the side of the living until the undead and demonic scourge we face is defeated. That being said, you have my word I will speak to Bear Ghost and tell him to prevent his tribe from harming any more innocents. You also have my word I will help you exact justice on any who do not heed his command."

I seek out Bear Ghost immediately.

"Bear Ghost, it has just come to my attention that some of your tribesman have been marauding the countryside and sacking cities. Please ensure that this stops immediately."

[DM7581]

"Your hatred of dragons is irrational and bordering psychopathic. I wasn't aware you thought any of them good. How do I know you won't try to murder the dragon?"

Leena: Dr. Nimm talking to me about what is or isn't good? I wasn't so sure that you even grasped the concept of morality... but, while I have no love for dragons, even the "good" ones, I know that they are all not evil. Covetous and selfish? Maybe... but I would not go out of my way to slay what might be an ally. Not in these dark times.

Suddenly Teleroth emerges from the ship's chambers. It has been about a week, but the crew still has not warmed up to him. They fall silent as he makes his way down, all keeping a steady eye, with low whispers among them, and keeping out of his way.

Leena looks to ready her weapon, but is able to read the situation.

Leena: So speaking of the war of the living and the undead. And yet, you have found yourselves yet another questionable ally... is he truly on our side?

This time Reli's growl has gotten a bit less non-aggressive. The very brief time that she did meet and acquaint herself at Teleroth's keep seems so long ago She has changed a bit since then, having been lost after the fight with Chromaticus, and then tortured by Asmodeus. She seems a bit (more) emotionally detached to civilization and ever closer to the wild.

It is very evident that she may have a problem keeping his company.

She then addresses Xavier...

[DM7581]

"Leena, I can certainly understand your feelings on the company Bear Ghost keeps. However, we are in unique times that require old hatreds to be put aside for the greater good so I must advise against violence at this time. For now, we must remain on the side of the living until the undead and demonic scourge we face is defeated. That being said, you have my word I will speak to Bear Ghost and tell him to prevent his tribe from harming any more innocents. You also have my word I will help you exact justice on any who do not heed his command."

I seek out Bear Ghost immediately.

"Bear Ghost, it has just come to my attention that some of your tribesman have been marauding the countryside and sacking cities. Please ensure that this stops immediately."

Leena: I am not seeking violence, but rather a stop to it. While I would say that I appreciate his desire to keep the natural world in tact... I am wary of any underlying intentions. It is not like giants and goblins to follow one who would promote peace.

--

Xavier, if you want to depart to visit Bear Ghost, it will delay your leaving to the mountains. FYI.

As you approach the tribe, you see what looks like a rally of sorts. The tribesmen are all up in arms, cheering, as Bear Ghost speaks to them.

Bear Ghost: The strong will quell the weak. It is the way of the land. They infringe on our lands? We take them back! The realm will not fall under the banner of so-called "civilization" nor will we yield to the dead! For the tribe!

And so on.

You navigate through the crowd toward a large fire. There is an unpleasant smell, as if something was recently burned. It is hard to make it out, but if you knew any better, it might have been a live sacrifice and it does not seem like it was an animal.

You finally get a moment aside with Bear Ghost.

Bear Ghost: This is a... complicated matter. See, the warriors I lead, their lands, have been infringed upon by troops from the north. They demand justice and only what is theirs. I take no joy... in doing what must be done.

You do not find this to be 100% believable. His frenzied nature, and even him "accidentally" attacking party members in the past usually lead you to believe that he enjoys bloodshed a bit too much, but it has only been for the greater good.

Bear Ghost: Crassus cannot continue to grow his kingdom as he has been doing. The entire realm will not yield to his law. I have always respected him, but my people now need to respect me and I must put them first. I will agree that there will be no attacks on any further cities. You have my word. But if my people are attacked, I can grant no such wish.

[DM7581]

Leena: I am not seeking violence, but rather a stop to it. While I would say that I appreciate his desire to keep the natural world in tact... I am wary of any underlying intentions. It is not like giants and goblins to follow one who would promote peace.

--

Xavier, if you want to depart to visit Bear Ghost, it will delay your leaving to the mountains. FYI.

As you approach the tribe, you see what looks like a rally of sorts. The tribesmen are all up in arms, cheering, as Bear Ghost speaks to them.

Bear Ghost: The strong will quell the weak. It is the way of the land. They infringe on our lands? We take them back! The realm will not fall under the banner of so-called "civilization" nor will we yield to the dead! For the tribe!

And so on.

You navigate through the crowd toward a large fire. There is an unpleasant smell, as if something was recently burned. It is hard to make it out, but if you knew any better, it might have been a live sacrifice and it does not seem like it was an animal.

You finally get a moment aside with Bear Ghost.

Bear Ghost: This is a... complicated matter. See, the warriors I lead, their lands, have been infringed upon by troops from the north. They demand justice and only what is theirs. I take no joy... in doing what must be done.

You do not find this to be 100% believable. His frenzied nature, and even him "accidentally" attacking party members in the past usually lead you to believe that he enjoys bloodshed a bit too much, but it has only been for the greater good.

Bear Ghost: Crassus cannot continue to grow his kingdom as he has been doing. The entire realm will not yield to his law. I have always respected him, but my people now need to respect me and I must put them first. I will agree that there will be no attacks on any further cities. You have my word. But if my people are attacked, I can grant no such wish.

Xavier, you actually sympathize with him... a lot more than most. While the anger and bloodshed of the warrior's life is something to be discussed. There is something very easy about the tribal life over that of the city.

Even the small town of Frostdale, with all its laws and troops policing the streets makes you feel very uneasy. You can't imagine what it might feel like to actually have to live in a larger city, or even in the kingdom.


I AM playing with some importance to your alignment and how it might guide and/or make your character act and feel. Xavier is Chaotic Good, so the Chaotic of him " agrees" with Bear Ghost, to a degree, but is diametrically opposed to the heavy "Law" aspect (likely LN) of Crassus' kingdom.

Use this as a tool, and not a crutch, in how your characters play and interact with people and the environment.

Dr. Nimm and Xavier are more inclined to disregard certain "laws" (also expectations, standards, order, etc.), while Arcivus would follow them or some sort of honor code, so long as it is just/"good" (and possibly aim to change unjust laws, if within his power).

Leena seems more concerned with nature. Teleroth seems to respect order, but is unconcerned with most mortal moral dilemmas.

To make things simple, the kingdom seems heavily Lawful (with no sway in the good/evil), while Bear Ghost's society seems free of such laws, but not purely a chaotic society... the good/evil part is yet to be determined.

Obviously alignment alone will not guide all situations. You can have to LG creatures disagree, etc.

[Ketiara]

Xavier, you actually sympathize with him... a lot more than most. While the anger and bloodshed of the warrior's life is something to be discussed. There is something very easy about the tribal life over that of the city.

Even the small town of Frostdale, with all its laws and troops policing the streets makes you feel very uneasy. You can't imagine what it might feel like to actually have to live in a larger city, or even in the kingdom.


I AM playing with some importance to your alignment and how it might guide and/or make your character act and feel. Xavier is Chaotic Good, so the Chaotic of him " agrees" with Bear Ghost, to a degree, but is diametrically opposed to the heavy "Law" aspect (likely LN) of Crassus' kingdom.

Use this as a tool, and not a crutch, in how your characters play and interact with people and the environment.

Dr. Nimm and Xavier are more inclined to disregard certain "laws" (also expectations, standards, order, etc.), while Arcivus would follow them or some sort of honor code, so long as it is just/"good" (and possibly aim to change unjust laws, if within his power).

Leena seems more concerned with nature. Teleroth seems to respect order, but is unconcerned with most mortal moral dilemmas.

To make things simple, the kingdom seems heavily Lawful (with no sway in the good/evil), while Bear Ghost's society seems free of such laws, but not purely a chaotic society... the good/evil part is yet to be determined.

Obviously alignment alone will not guide all situations. You can have to LG creatures disagree, etc.


Arcivus alignment is challanged atm. Both with the lack of his God to seek guidance, but also because of the fight for the Greater Good, and that we are in a rush to prevent the forces of evil. Thus he keeps quiet.

[Xavier Alexis]

I must ask Bear Ghost about what was burnt.

"What is going on here? What is the meaning of this?"

If his answer puts my concerns about evil behaviors to rest, I will reply to his concerns.

"Thank you and I will also speak to Crassus about keeping the peace as soon as I regain my magical powers. I have always known him to be good and honorable man. I also believe an alliance between your tribe and his kingdom is the only way we will stand a chance against the evils that would destroy us."

[Dr_Nimm]

Leena: Dr. Nimm talking to me about what is or isn't good? I wasn't so sure that you even grasped the concept of morality... but, while I have no love for dragons, even the "good" ones, I know that they are all not evil. Covetous and selfish? Maybe... but I would not go out of my way to slay what might be an ally. Not in these dark times.

Suddenly Teleroth emerges from the ship's chambers. It has been about a week, but the crew still has not warmed up to him. They fall silent as he makes his way down, all keeping a steady eye, with low whispers among them, and keeping out of his way.

Leena looks to ready her weapon, but is able to read the situation.

Leena: So speaking of the war of the living and the undead. And yet, you have found yourselves yet another questionable ally... is he truly on our side?

This time Reli's growl has gotten a bit less non-aggressive. The very brief time that she did meet and acquaint herself at Teleroth's keep seems so long ago She has changed a bit since then, having been lost after the fight with Chromaticus, and then tortured by Asmodeus. She seems a bit (more) emotionally detached to civilization and ever closer to the wild.

It is very evident that she may have a problem keeping his company.

She then addresses Xavier...

"Hmph. You are correct. I suppose I owe you an apology.

[DM7581]

I must ask Bear Ghost about what was burnt.

"What is going on here? What is the meaning of this?"

If his answer puts my concerns about evil behaviors to rest, I will reply to his concerns.

"Thank you and I will also speak to Crassus about keeping the peace as soon as I regain my magical powers. I have always known him to be good and honorable man. I also believe an alliance between your tribe and his kingdom is the only way we will stand a chance against the evils that would destroy us."

Bear Ghost: My clan honors me with what they consider a worthy sacrifice...

He looks away as if not wanting to reveal any more, but neither in denial of what you might suspect.

Bear Ghost: An alliance would be welcome, so long as the terms are agreeable.

I... have had visions. I am not sure if you would understand. Christopher didn’t. Maybe Kyle will. I may be going mad, but at least my people have returned to glory. Go about your mission. We can speak when you return.

[DM7581]

Arcivus alignment is challanged atm. Both with the lack of his God to seek guidance, but also because of the fight for the Greater Good, and that we are in a rush to prevent the forces of evil. Thus he keeps quiet.

Alignment is independent of deity, though they are sometimes aligned. You still are bound by your oath, which is where you get your divine power (not necessarily from the gods), but in my world, it is the gods who enable mortals to tap into supernatural powers, especially the divine. The fact that you have retained your abilities, especially where it has been reported that others have lost them, is likely due to your strong, unwavering conviction to your oath and cause.

If you were to grossly violate your oath and/or alignment, you are not sure "how" you might atone for such a trespass, as there are not many, if any individuals out there that you can consider your superior in faith. Typically, this would be through direct communion with a higher power or a representative, but they are now few and far between.

[DM7581]

"Hmph. You are correct. I suppose I owe you an apology.

Leena says nothing, but is surprised that you conceded on this, almost in a comical fashion, which is openly noticed in how she cringes her eyebrows and tilts her head. You both look at each other, hiding back a little chuckle, as if the verbal bantering is all a part of an inside joke that you two have had going on since you've known and warmed up to each other.

You take a puff of your pipe in the slight amusement (it typically takes much more mental stimulation to truly amuse you), and then continue pondering far more important matters as you await everyone to prepare to depart.

Xavier has just rushed off, hastily, to speak with Bear Ghost, so you have have about an hour to do next to nothing until he returns.

[Xavier Alexis]

I will return to the ship as fast possible, flying if necessary.

"Forgive the delay, my friends. I am ready to depart immediately."

[DM7581]

I will return to the ship as fast possible, flying if necessary.

"Forgive the delay, my friends. I am ready to depart immediately."

Yes... depart. As it seems that I am still unwelcome among the living... perhaps it is time that i too depart. It will take me some time to rebuild a lair, but if I have anything, it is time. Further, if we do encounter a good dragon, my presence may complicate any request for assistance.

You all seem well and able enough and I thank you for all that you have done. Nehlrus has been defeated, as have any chnace of my father returning, at least for the time being. I suspect that if what you speak of Orcus to be true, then he is the true adversary. Be wary, as demon lords possess unmatched power and fury.

The crew still has not seemed to warm up to him, and he too seems out of place outside of his lair, where he can remaining, hidden from prying eyes.

[Ketiara]

Yes... depart. As it seems that I am still unwelcome among the living... perhaps it is time that i too depart. It will take me some time to rebuild a lair, but if I have anything, it is time. Further, if we do encounter a good dragon, my presence may complicate any request for assistance.

You all seem well and able enough and I thank you for all that you have done. Nehlrus has been defeated, as have any chnace of my father returning, at least for the time being. I suspect that if what you speak of Orcus to be true, then he is the true adversary. Be wary, as demon lords possess unmatched power and fury.

The crew still has not seemed to warm up to him, and he too seems out of place outside of his lair, where he can remaining, hidden from prying eyes.

Arcivus would have liked for him to stay to learn more about him... But with him here and bear ghosts clan it’s almost too much for him.
Arcivus make a mental notice to make sure to keep track of this village.
“Xavier I don’t like what’s going on in bear ghosts clan. I trust your judgement regarding him, but if he is allowing evil to happen then he must be stopped... no matter how powerful an alli he may be against the deamonic threat”

[Xavier Alexis]

Arcivus would have liked for him to stay to learn more about him... But with him here and bear ghosts clan it’s almost too much for him.
Arcivus make a mental notice to make sure to keep track of this village.
“Xavier I don’t like what’s going on in bear ghosts clan. I trust your judgement regarding him, but if he is allowing evil to happen then he must be stopped... no matter how powerful an alli he may be against the deamonic threat”

"I agree and Bear Ghost has assured me he will control his tribe. After Dr. Nimm creates my new body, I suggest we visit King Crassus to discuss terms which will solidify an alliance with Bear Ghost's tribe. An alliance that I believe is our best chance to defeat the evils we face."

[DM7581]

Without haste, you all head back out to the Doomblizzard Peaks.

Leena keeps to herself on the ship, and with Reli at her side, few crew members dare go near her.

You all catch up a bit on the journey.

Leena opens up a bit about what has been going on with her.

Leena: I feel indebted to you all. I do not know much of the devils, but what I do know is that they like making deals.

I hope you didn't have to give up too much for me...

He did want me alive though. When... the torture... was too severe, he was quick to correct his lackeys. I figure it was to make sure that I wasn't in too bad a shape, but I wonder why me? I am sure he could have bartered with you for any number of things.

She soon changes the subject, looking out to the vast wilderness from the view of the ship.

Leena: I have been communing with the spirits of nature. Their voices have gotten more and more quiet.

She hesitates.

Similar to the gods I suppose.

The wild has no protector, no guardian. This Crassus of yours continues to expand his empire at the expense of the wild, while it seems Bear Ghost is about to burn it all down to the ground. The undead march and defile the living... Where is Christopher? Always liked him.

You explain that he ran off to fight the undead and is now in Cypress trying to heal the sick and restore hope to the broken people there.

Leena: Typical. Well, hopefully he comes too. We may need him in whatever comes next...

Any additional dialogue?

You begin to approach the mountains. As suspected, the air is too dense to fly through safely. You dock as close as you can. Leena scouts the surrounding area. She says she is going to see if she can get an idea of where you all should head. She heads off and is gone for quite a few minutes.

[Ketiara]

Without haste, you all head back out to the Doomblizzard Peaks.

Leena keeps to herself on the ship, and with Reli at her side, few crew members dare go near her.

You all catch up a bit on the journey.

Leena opens up a bit about what has been going on with her.

Leena: I feel indebted to you all. I do not know much of the devils, but what I do know is that they like making deals.

I hope you didn't have to give up too much for me...

He did want me alive though. When... the torture... was too severe, he was quick to correct his lackeys. I figure it was to make sure that I wasn't in too bad a shape, but I wonder why me? I am sure he could have bartered with you for any number of things.

She soon changes the subject, looking out to the vast wilderness from the view of the ship.

Leena: I have been communing with the spirits of nature. Their voices have gotten more and more quiet.

She hesitates.

Similar to the gods I suppose.

The wild has no protector, no guardian. This Crassus of yours continues to expand his empire at the expense of the wild, while it seems Bear Ghost is about to burn it all down to the ground. The undead march and defile the living... Where is Christopher? Always liked him.

You explain that he ran off to fight the undead and is now in Cypress trying to heal the sick and restore hope to the broken people there.

Leena: Typical. Well, hopefully he comes too. We may need him in whatever comes next...

Any additional dialogue?

You begin to approach the mountains. As suspected, the air is too dense to fly through safely. You dock as close as you can. Leena scouts the surrounding area. She says she is going to see if she can get an idea of where you all should head. She heads off and is gone for quite a few minutes.

"Leena, we didnt give anything up we werent prepared for, saving you. So dont worry about it. I can relate to your feeling about your connection to nature. I fear nothing will be left of anything if we arent succesful. I would also very much like to find Christopher! Perhaps he may have some answers. I say we should try and find him when we are back in Cypress."

[Xavier Alexis]

"Leena, we didnt give anything up we werent prepared for, saving you. So dont worry about it. I can relate to your feeling about your connection to nature. I fear nothing will be left of anything if we arent succesful. I would also very much like to find Christopher! Perhaps he may have some answers. I say we should try and find him when we are back in Cypress."

"Yes, we will need all of the help we can find for the battles ahead. As long as I draw breath, I will strive to help you bring justice to those who would defile the good and innocent."

[Dr_Nimm]

"I agree and Bear Ghost has assured me he will control his tribe. After Dr. Nimm creates my new body, I suggest we visit King Crassus to discuss terms which will solidify an alliance with Bear Ghost's tribe. An alliance that I believe is our best chance to defeat the evils we face."

"Sounds like the old Xavier. Right on, chap!"

[Dr_Nimm]

"Leena, what is more natural than being among the clouds? I will prepare comfortable quarters on the deck, perhaps a hammock, and a screen for privacy. I can install planters for you to grow things."

[DM7581]

Leena returns after a short while.

Leena: I could not detect any traces of any dragons... silver or otherwise for at least a few miles from here.

She looks a little annoyed.

Leena: I am not against traversing this area, but with you all, we would take too much time and make too much noise.

I did see a large mountain peak in the distance... maybe the largest in the region. I would guess a silver dragon would choose such an area.

We can probably take the ship near the base, but there is nowhere to land safely at the top. We may have to rough it the way up. What do you all think?


She is right. Mostly. A powerful silver dragon would likely choose a lair at the highest mountain peak, preferably amongst the clouds.

Visibility is very poor, however, and neither of you think it safe to navigate the ship through the cloudy area. You have to be high enough to clear the trees, but low enough to avoid the thick mist. Flying even nearby the base of the mountain she describes by ship does not seem to be a safe option.


She described the large mountain a few miles out. Maybe half a days travel by land. Not sure how long it might take to actually climb it though, as she describes the top as obscured by mist and clouds.

[Xavier Alexis]

Leena returns after a short while.

Leena: I could not detect any traces of any dragons... silver or otherwise for at least a few miles from here.

She looks a little annoyed.

Leena: I am not against traversing this area, but with you all, we would take too much time and make too much noise.

I did see a large mountain peak in the distance... maybe the largest in the region. I would guess a silver dragon would choose such an area.

We can probably take the ship near the base, but there is nowhere to land safely at the top. We may have to rough it the way up. What do you all think?


She is right. Mostly. A powerful silver dragon would likely choose a lair at the highest mountain peak, preferably amongst the clouds.

Visibility is very poor, however, and neither of you think it safe to navigate the ship through the cloudy area. You have to be high enough to clear the trees, but low enough to avoid the thick mist. Flying even nearby the base of the mountain she describes by ship does not seem to be a safe option.


She described the large mountain a few miles out. Maybe half a days travel by land. Not sure how long it might take to actually climb it though, as she describes the top as obscured by mist and clouds.

"I can teleport myself and 6 others to a safe location on that mountain. However, I must be able to see the destination."

Nomadic Step (Phanton Caravan) has a one mile visual range.

[Ketiara]

"I can teleport myself and 6 others to a safe location on that mountain. However, I must be able to see the destination."

Nomadic Step (Phanton Caravan) has a one mile visual range.

Arcivus thinks out loud.

"Could a combination of telepathic link and nomadic step work?"

[DM7581]

"I can teleport myself and 6 others to a safe location on that mountain. However, I must be able to see the destination."

Nomadic Step (Phanton Caravan) has a one mile visual range.

The mountain is barely visible, and at least 10 miles out. Even then, you cannot see the base, but only parts of the mountain itself, as the mist and fog obscures visual distance greatly.

[Xavier Alexis]

Arcivus thinks out loud.

"Could a combination of telepathic link and nomadic step work?"

"It is certainly worth a try. Either way, we will not have to risk the ship landing in a dangerous area if we get close enough for me to teleport us."

[Dr_Nimm]

"Let's land as close as possible and proceed thence, by foot or spell as the situation demands. I enjoy traveling on foot. Never know what new species of flora or fauna we may discover."

I land and initiate fortress configuration on the Skylance.

"Crew, keep discipline. Twenty four hour guards, cannons primed at all times. Alwor, if the ship is overwhelmed, take to the sky and fire at the mountain to signal us."

[DM7581]

"Let's land as close as possible and proceed thence, by foot or spell as the situation demands. I enjoy traveling on foot. Never know what new species of flora or fauna we may discover."

I land and initiate fortress configuration on the Skylance.

"Crew, keep discipline. Twenty four hour guards, cannons primed at all times. Alwor, if the ship is overwhelmed, take to the sky and fire at the mountain to signal us."

Aye, aye, captain!

Your confidence is the crew is growing. They have been to and from hell and even held steady facing the legendary tarrasque. There is hope for them yet.

Leena leads you around a bit of a longer route. Nimm mentions a more direct route. Leena scoffs.

Leena: And right into the clearings? Might as well walk around banging a drum to alert the apex predators of our presence.

Rightfully, so. Last time you were here, you stumbled into what now occurs to you to have been remorhaz hunting grounds.

Leena leads you through much more dense forests. Visibility is still very limited, but the cover of trees allows you all to be better obscured against would be attackers.

She strikes up a conversation with Arcivus at some point through the walk. She seems a bit apprehensive to even bring up the topic.

Leena: So... many of our acquaintances claim that they have received visions from the gods. Me not so much. I try to listen to nature. Sometimes I used to feel like she spoke back. Lately, again, not so much... Have you had any of these... “visions?”

Along the way, you pass a small pack of wolves. Leena shoos them away. Having a feral wolf of her own probably didn’t hurt the effort either.

[Dr_Nimm]

Aye, aye, captain!

Your confidence is the crew is growing. They have been to and from hell and even held steady facing the legendary tarrasque. There is hope for them yet.

Leena leads you around a bit of a longer route. Nimm mentions a more direct route. Leena scoffs.

Leena: And right into the clearings? Might as well walk around banging a drum to alert the apex predators of our presence.

Rightfully, so. Last time you were here, you stumbled into what now occurs to you to have been remorhaz hunting grounds.

Leena leads you through much more dense forests. Visibility is still very limited, but the cover of trees allows you all to be better obscured against would be attackers.

She strikes up a conversation with Arcivus at some point through the walk. She seems a bit apprehensive to even bring up the topic.

Leena: So... many of our acquaintances claim that they have received visions from the gods. Me not so much. I try to listen to nature. Sometimes I used to feel like she spoke back. Lately, again, not so much... Have you had any of these... “visions?”

Along the way, you pass a small pack of wolves. Leena shoos them away. Having a feral wolf of her own probably didn’t hurt the effort either.

"Ill be foolish not to follow a ranger. Carry on."

Uninterested in discussions of gods outside sociological or historical contexts, I tune out their conversation and keep and eye out for interesting plants or animals.

[Ketiara]

Aye, aye, captain!

Your confidence is the crew is growing. They have been to and from hell and even held steady facing the legendary tarrasque. There is hope for them yet.

Leena leads you around a bit of a longer route. Nimm mentions a more direct route. Leena scoffs.

Leena: And right into the clearings? Might as well walk around banging a drum to alert the apex predators of our presence.

Rightfully, so. Last time you were here, you stumbled into what now occurs to you to have been remorhaz hunting grounds.

Leena leads you through much more dense forests. Visibility is still very limited, but the cover of trees allows you all to be better obscured against would be attackers.

She strikes up a conversation with Arcivus at some point through the walk. She seems a bit apprehensive to even bring up the topic.

Leena: So... many of our acquaintances claim that they have received visions from the gods. Me not so much. I try to listen to nature. Sometimes I used to feel like she spoke back. Lately, again, not so much... Have you had any of these... “visions?”

Along the way, you pass a small pack of wolves. Leena shoos them away. Having a feral wolf of her own probably didn’t hurt the effort either.

OOG: I cant actually remember if Arcivus have had any visions. Tried to backtrack some posts, but didnt find anything, before giving up on that.

"Its been a long while since Ive had direct contact to my God! But at times it seems like he has been there, like when you imagine and are sure what someone close to you that has passed away would do or say in a situation." Arcivus look embarassed speaking of this...
"So its almost like my God is with me" Embarrassed turn to confused
"I wonder where I get my power from to be honest"

[DM7581]

OOG: I cant actually remember if Arcivus have had any visions. Tried to backtrack some posts, but didnt find anything, before giving up on that.

"Its been a long while since Ive had direct contact to my God! But at times it seems like he has been there, like when you imagine and are sure what someone close to you that has passed away would do or say in a situation." Arcivus look embarassed speaking of this...
"So its almost like my God is with me" Embarrassed turn to confused
"I wonder where I get my power from to be honest"

Leena looks at you with a bit of a squinty eye.

Leena: Yes, me too. I have heard of many who have lost their connection to nature. I am sure the same is true to those who follow a path similar to yours or even Christopher. We shall see where this goes.

Her tone does not seem as urgent as yours might be. She is an elf after all and probably suspects a few hundred years of being able to witness what is to unfold, if anything. As a human, you seem to make take such questions as requiring more urgent attention.

--

Night falls. Leena finds a nice enough place to rest for the evening, finding a spot int he terrain that is shielded by the harshest winds and provides some cover over the falling snow.

Leena: I trance only for a short time, so get some rest. Reli (she pats him) has keen ears too. We should be fine here.

You are all a lot closer to the mountain and should be able to get there by mid-day tomorrow. There is quite a bit of activity in the sky, as lightning and thunder can be seen and heard off in the distance. This is unusual activity and both Leena and Dr. Nimm take notice.

Leena looks to try to make something of it, but seems stumped. She almost looks to Dr. Nimm for an explanation, but her pride gets the best of her. Nevertheless, it is an odd phenomenon.

Dr. Nimm, this is odd indeed. Aside from the winds and snow, thunder and lightning like that are typically a part of a system accompanied by rain, but there is none. Further, the clouds in the distance seem to swirl around the mountain and are not moving away as they typically would.

You too are stumped. Something definitely worth investigating.

[Dr_Nimm]

Leena looks at you with a bit of a squinty eye.

Leena: Yes, me too. I have heard of many who have lost their connection to nature. I am sure the same is true to those who follow a path similar to yours or even Christopher. We shall see where this goes.

Her tone does not seem as urgent as yours might be. She is an elf after all and probably suspects a few hundred years of being able to witness what is to unfold, if anything. As a human, you seem to make take such questions as requiring more urgent attention.

--

Night falls. Leena finds a nice enough place to rest for the evening, finding a spot int he terrain that is shielded by the harshest winds and provides some cover over the falling snow.

Leena: I trance only for a short time, so get some rest. Reli (she pats him) has keen ears too. We should be fine here.

You are all a lot closer to the mountain and should be able to get there by mid-day tomorrow. There is quite a bit of activity in the sky, as lightning and thunder can be seen and heard off in the distance. This is unusual activity and both Leena and Dr. Nimm take notice.

Leena looks to try to make something of it, but seems stumped. She almost looks to Dr. Nimm for an explanation, but her pride gets the best of her. Nevertheless, it is an odd phenomenon.

Dr. Nimm, this is odd indeed. Aside from the winds and snow, thunder and lightning like that are typically a part of a system accompanied by rain, but there is none. Further, the clouds in the distance seem to swirl around the mountain and are not moving away as they typically would.

You too are stumped. Something definitely worth investigating.

"Tis nothing. But a wisp of cloud." I utter in a harsh Dwarven accent.

"I jest. Thought I read that line in a book about a wandering halfling and his Dwarven companions. There is an anomalous weather pattern on the mountain. I cannot come to any conclusions without getting closer."

[DM7581]

"Tis nothing. But a wisp of cloud." I utter in a harsh Dwarven accent.

"I jest. Thought I read that line in a book about a wandering halfling and his Dwarven companions. There is an anomalous weather pattern on the mountain. I cannot come to any conclusions without getting closer."

Leena, always being the obtuse persona that she is...

Leena: Well, take notes then. This is not natural. See if that book you keep your nose in has any information on it.

It doesn't, but it is noticeable that you are a bookworm, so just playing to your character.

--

The howling of wolves and other minor sounds echo through the night, not to mention the howling of the winds. Despite this, it is uneventful evening and you all are good to go the next "morning." Well, not much of a morning, as the clouds and skies yield little sun, but the smell of some freshly roasted meat does awake you as Leena has taken it upon herself to prepare a small feast to start the day.

You all head to the mysterious mountain, again evading trivial encounters with the local wildlife thanks to Leena's direction. Actually, as you approach, it seems that the forest is much more dense with critters, most notably eagles soaring on high, but a few polar bears and wolves that you avoid.

Soon you reach the base of the mountain. There is a path the leads upward, and it is sizable, built for at least 2 giants to be able to climb, side by side (about a 20-30 feet width). It seems safe enough for you all to walk without risk of falling.

Notably, at the base sits what looks like a small abandoned camp. Leena scours the area looking for clues.

Leena: Frost giants...

Dr. Nimm concurs. It looks to have been abandoned at least for a few weeks, if not longer. Maybe half a dozen giants at most, so a small band. It could be an outpost for a larger lair. Maybe the bands that live out here are smaller due to the scarcity of food and resources.

Leena looks to be scouting around, giving little concern to the camp. However...


After looking at what remains of the camp, you do see some bones and discarded limbs of what looks to be a giant-like creature, though it is hard to tell what kind. You can take a few minutes to examine this if you want (roll Nature).

The limbs seem scattered as if something has been eating the creature(s) in question, but discarded good portions of the remains.

[Dr_Nimm]

Leena, always being the obtuse persona that she is...

Leena: Well, take notes then. This is not natural. See if that book you keep your nose in has any information on it.

It doesn't, but it is noticeable that you are a bookworm, so just playing to your character.

--

The howling of wolves and other minor sounds echo through the night, not to mention the howling of the winds. Despite this, it is uneventful evening and you all are good to go the next "morning." Well, not much of a morning, as the clouds and skies yield little sun, but the smell of some freshly roasted meat does awake you as Leena has taken it upon herself to prepare a small feast to start the day.

You all head to the mysterious mountain, again evading trivial encounters with the local wildlife thanks to Leena's direction. Actually, as you approach, it seems that the forest is much more dense with critters, most notably eagles soaring on high, but a few polar bears and wolves that you avoid.

Soon you reach the base of the mountain. There is a path the leads upward, and it is sizable, built for at least 2 giants to be able to climb, side by side (about a 20-30 feet width). It seems safe enough for you all to walk without risk of falling.

Notably, at the base sits what looks like a small abandoned camp. Leena scours the area looking for clues.

Leena: Frost giants...

Dr. Nimm concurs. It looks to have been abandoned at least for a few weeks, if not longer. Maybe half a dozen giants at most, so a small band. It could be an outpost for a larger lair. Maybe the bands that live out here are smaller due to the scarcity of food and resources.

Leena looks to be scouting around, giving little concern to the camp. However...


After looking at what remains of the camp, you do see some bones and discarded limbs of what looks to be a giant-like creature, though it is hard to tell what kind. You can take a few minutes to examine this if you want (roll Nature).

The limbs seem scattered as if something has been eating the creature(s) in question, but discarded good portions of the remains.


"Yes Leena, books contain useful information. I'll gladly teach you to read, if you like." I hide behind Mr Benson.

"Given the age of these remains, I suspect that the frost giants at Bear Ghost's camp are aware of what transpired here, and are likely relatives or tribesmen of the deceased. If that's the case their eagerness to join us is to exact revenge on the creature that did this or some other vendetta, I'm sure. Perhaps using us to clear the area so that they may reclaim it." I poke around the remains.

"This is my current hypothesis. Let's see if the evidence validates..."

Nature 32
Investigation also 32

[Xavier Alexis]

"It may be wise to convince any Frost Giants we encounter to join with Bear Ghost's tribe."

[Dr_Nimm]

"It may be wise to convince any Frost Giants we encounter to join with Bear Ghost's tribe."

"Very well. I'd leave the Persuasion to yourself or Archie. Of late I have little patience for speaking with brutes and simpletons. Except for Leena." I toss a smoke pellet and attempt to vanish.

[Ketiara]

"Very well. I'd leave the Persuasion to yourself or Archie. Of late I have little patience for speaking with brutes and simpletons. Except for Leena." I toss a smoke pellet and attempt to vanish.

My short time with savage tribes like this, has taught me that I dont know how to talk to them. I have no faith in their word or any agreements I make with them.

[Xavier Alexis]

My short time with savage tribes like this, has taught me that I dont know how to talk to them. I have no faith in their word or any agreements I make with them.

"Understandable. I only mean with the greater evils facing us, our best chance is to turn today's enemies into tomorrow's allies."

[DM7581]

Leena gives Nimm a keen, squinty eye, after his learn to read comment. You suspect she might know. She does not verbally respond, but instead sits with you to look over the frosted remains.

Dr. Nimm takes a few minutes to peruse the book, going into the bestiary, and more specifically, the area of giant lore.


The limbs are definitely not from frost giants. They are far more lean and far too small. Well, except for one. One limb is about the right size that it would match with a frost giant, but also very lean.

You go into a dark chapter that talks about giant aberrations. In this chapter one section caches your eye, as it seems most relevant. Trolls have been known to become cannibals, but when they do, the results are horrific. Notes mention something about these creatures grafting additional limbs and even growing additional heads.

They are known as Dire Trolls and are typically solitary and quite psychotic, even by giant standards.



Dr. Nimm is stuck in his book, mumbling to himself as he reads aloud tohimself (disadvantage on Perception checks).

Suddenly Leena perks up and starts to back pedal. Apparently she hears something, but does not want to alarm anyone. Not even Reli flinches, but he is acutely aware of Leena and instantly gets at her side.

Out of the brush, a massive troll appears. This is a troll like none other that you have ever seen. It has no less than 3 heads attached to its twisted neck and shoulders, all of varying size, as well as about 6 arms, sprouting from its sides and even off of other arms.

It stands nealry twice the size of a typical troll and is either unnaturally stealthy or simply smart enough to use the howling winds and obscured vision from the snowfall to its advantage, getting the jump on all of you, except Leena.


Everyone is surprised. Roll initiative!


https://5etools.com/img/MTF/Dire%20Troll.png?ver=1.64.6

[Ketiara]

Arcivus’ instincts take over as he pulls out his sword, and head to the front to protect the rest of the group.
Init: 8

EDIT: Danae: 10/14 (advantage roll) dunno her modifyer

[Xavier Alexis]

I rolled 11 initiative.

[DM7581]

Round 1!

Everyone is surprised except Leena/Reli.

Leena: What the hell is that thing?!

She fires off 2 arrows, but has Reli take the Dodge action. The arrows hit, for a 50 damage. The troll seems slightly resistant to these mundane attacks and not at all fazed.

The troll advances, with a wild limp toward the group. He is large enough to be able to close in to range within everyone aside from Mr. Benson and Danae, who are luckily a safe distance away.

He flails his many arms wildly, as if in a cyclone, and slashes at everyone within reach!

Leena is able to avoid the brunt of the blows and takes 22 damage. Reli takes 45 and seems pretty hurt.

Everyone else is lucky and ducks the full fury of the swipes and takes only 22 damage.

Leena goes again. She has Reli back off behind her (Disengage action) as she continues to fire, now into melee (disadvantage). Luckily, both arrows strike again (53 damage), but the creature seems to shrug off most of the injury.

Danae (Arcivus can control her), then Xavier, and Nimm (with Mr. Benson). Go ahead, all in sequence.


Danae (L3 Half-Elf)
11.15.12.11.12.15
HP: 13 AC: 19 Spd: 30
Skills: Acrobatics +4, Insight +3
Senses: passive Perception 11
Languages: Common, Elvish
Squire: Weapon/Armor Proficiencies
Rapier: +4, 1d8+2 P
Longbow: +4, 1d8+2 P
Equipment: Half-Plate, Sentinel Shield*
*attuned


--

Initiative:

Leena: 31 (HP: 122/144; Reli HP: 35/80)
Danae: 16
Xavier: 14 (HP: 140/162)
Dr. Nimm: 14 (HP: 161/183)
Dire Troll: 11 (103 damage)
Arcivus: 8 (HP: 182/204)

[DM7581]

Additional details (everyone except Rick would appreciate):

The wind and snow are harsh. As the creature closes on you, the sting of the cold is almost as bitter as its claws. Patches of frost can be seen on the creature, which wears barely anything, seemingly unfazed by the climate.

The conditions themselves are almost blinding, so when it closes, its sheer size becomes apparent, as well as its clear deformities. Multiple arms, heads, even mouths jutting from its body. It is like nothing you have ever seen.

It snarls with each arrow strike (the arrows seem to bludgeon it, but bounce off), as its heavy breathes from its many mouths further fog the air.

--

There got my descriptive rant out.

[Dr_Nimm]

"Ack! How does a creature that big sneak up on me? Use fire or acid against it!"

[Dr_Nimm]

Additional details (everyone except Rick would appreciate):



Saltier than the seven seas. Arrr matey!

[DM7581]

"Ack! How does a creature that big sneak up on me? Use fire or acid against it!"

Everyone has disadvantage on perception due to the loud winds and obscured vision from the constant snow storm.

Environmental hazards are fun.

[Dr_Nimm]

I use my grenadier feature and toss a 4d8 fire bomb as an action and bonus action.

28: 23 damage
30: 27 damage

[Ketiara]

OOG: I take it you remember my resistance, if applicable.

Danae either disengages and move somewhere behind. Or move into the back and goes into full defence. She would prefer to be behind Arcivus not right behind, but the line from the monster to her, is past Arcivus.


Arcivus attack:
First he shove it with his shield.
13+14 = 27 athletics to knock him over. if it work Arcivus should have advantage to his attacks
10/3+17 = 30 , (1d8)+11+(1d8)+(2d8) = 20
3/7+17 = 20/24 , (1d8)+11+(1d8)+(2d8) = 31

[Xavier Alexis]

"Ack! How does a creature that big sneak up on me? Use fire or acid against it!"

"So be it."

As my bonus action, I activate Nomadic Step (Step of a Dozen Paces) and teleport 20 feet behind Arcivus.

As my action, I activate Energy Beam (Fire) and inflict 4d8 (21) damage on the creature. A DC 22 Dexterity Save negates the damage.

[DM7581]

I use my grenadier feature and toss a 4d8 fire bomb as an action and bonus action.

28: 23 damage
30: 27 damage

These bombs are at disadvantage, but you hit anyway. The creature rears its many heads in anger as the fire scars its rubbery skin.

Xavier maneuvers away as he blasts the creature with yet more fire.

Danae moves into a safe position and stands fast as Arcivus closes in to face the creature 1-1.

The troll then sets its eyes on Dr. Nimm, after being blasted twice by fire from him.

A flurry of swings of claws and bites reign down, catching Nimm for 36 damage. Of note, the disgusting maws of the creature seem poisonous, but the good doctor has built up quite an immunity to such effects.

Arcivus finally closes in.

FYI: The bonus action to shove needs to be taken after the attack action, so you cannot knock prone and then swing. It is swing and then knock prone... kind of weakens the build, but it is the official ruling.

Nevertheless, all of Arcivus' attacks hit. The troll seems to be reeling a bit from the onslaught, but does not relent. It seems to babble to itself and you all, incoherently, in what sounds like a mesh of giant and gibberish.

Total damage taken this round: 122. Not bad! The troll looks very hurt.

Leena tends to Reli with a Cure Wounds Spell (at 4th Level, for 20 HP). Her bond with Reli is such that they both gain the benefit of the spell!

She then gestures for Danae to stand back, and then calls out to you all over the howling winds.

Leena: Keep with the fire! It looks weak!

Danae can act unless Arcivus orders otherwise, aside from that, give me Xavier and Dr. Nimm one more time. Arcivus, you go after the troll.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 31 (HP: 142/144; Reli HP: 55/80)
Danae: 16
Xavier: 14 (HP: 140/162)
Dr. Nimm: 14 (HP: 125/183)
Dire Troll: 11 (225 damage?)
Arcivus: 8 (HP: 182/204)

[Xavier Alexis]

As my action, I activate Energy Beam (Fire) and inflict 4d8 (15) damage on the creature. A DC 22 Dexterity Save negates the damage.

[Dr_Nimm]

Action: disengage

Move max speed away from troll

Bonus action: acid bomb. 24 to hit w disadvantage. 28 damage.

Rupert, move in!

Rupert moves next to the troll.

[DM7581]

Action: disengage

Move max speed away from troll

Bonus action: acid bomb. 24 to hit w disadvantage. 28 damage.

Rupert, move in!

Rupert moves next to the troll.

The fire blasts both hit. The creature looks burnt all over, yet still somehow stands.

Rupert scuttles forward(?) and the troll goes next.

More annoyed by the familiar than threatened, he takes a swing at it with his claws, but focuses the brunt of his assault or Arcivus.

Not sure if you had a reaction of sorts on this, but poor little Rupert has an AC of 13 and only 1 HP. The claw swipe hits and he flops over lifeless, twitching slightly as he lets out a little squeak.

The remaining swipes are focused on Arcivus, another flurry of claws and bites, who inflicts a total of 8 damage (after resistance). The bulk of the blows are avoided, with only 1 claw swipe having any meaningful force behind it.

On to Arcivus.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 31 (HP: 142/144; Reli HP: 55/80)
Danae: 16
Xavier: 14 (HP: 140/162)
Dr. Nimm: 14 (HP: 125/183)
Dire Troll: 11 (250+ damage)
Arcivus: 8 (HP: 174/204)

[Dr_Nimm]

"Rupert is a magical creature imbued with the power of alchemy. Death is little more than a power nap to him."

"Nevertheless, it was cowardly and crass of you to attack a tiny defenseless creature. Pray you don't live till the next round of combat!"

[DM7581]

"Rupert is a magical creature imbued with the power of alchemy. Death is little more than a power nap to him."

"Nevertheless, it was cowardly and crass of you to attack a tiny defenseless creature. Pray you don't live till the next round of combat!"

Still wondering why you had him rush the front lines. In my head it is funny, but only when I envision it as a cartoon. When I imagine everything to be lifelike, its kind of sick.

[Ketiara]

The fire blasts both hit. The creature looks burnt all over, yet still somehow stands.

Rupert scuttles forward(?) and the troll goes next.

More annoyed by the familiar than threatened, he takes a swing at it with his claws, but focuses the brunt of his assault or Arcivus.

Not sure if you had a reaction of sorts on this, but poor little Rupert has an AC of 13 and only 1 HP. The claw swipe hits and he flops over lifeless, twitching slightly as he lets out a little squeak.

The remaining swipes are focused on Arcivus, another flurry of claws and bites, who inflicts a total of 8 damage (after resistance). The bulk of the blows are avoided, with only 1 claw swipe having any meaningful force behind it.

On to Arcivus.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 31 (HP: 142/144; Reli HP: 55/80)
Danae: 16
Xavier: 14 (HP: 140/162)
Dr. Nimm: 14 (HP: 125/183)
Dire Troll: 11 (250+ damage)
Arcivus: 8 (HP: 174/204)
I take it that I didnt manage to knock over the troll, because you havnt mentioned that it stood up again.

Arcivus strike at the troll:
Roll: 1 MISS!
Roll: 11 + 16 = 27 ; (1d8)6 + 10+ (1d8)2 + (3d8)15 = 33
Knock prone: 11+13 = 24 (athletics)

[Dr_Nimm]

Still wondering why you had him rush the front lines. In my head it is funny, but only when I envision it as a cartoon. When I imagine everything to be lifelike, its kind of sick.

I didn't think a mighty troll would notice or even care about a little fox.

[DM7581]

I take it that I didnt manage to knock over the troll, because you havnt mentioned that it stood up again.

Arcivus strike at the troll:
Roll: 1 MISS!
Roll: 11 + 16 = 27 ; (1d8)6 + 10+ (1d8)2 + (3d8)15 = 33
Knock prone: 11+13 = 24 (athletics)

The sole blow lands the troll on its back. It lies there twitching. It won’t die unless exposed to fire or acid - and you have a round to make that decision.

Leena stands fast as she suspects that Nimm might have a scheme or sorts up his sleeve, despite the fact that she hates giants with a passion. This one is like none other that she or any of you have ever faced.

What’ll it be? Kill it or something else?

[Ketiara]

The sole blow lands the troll on its back. It lies there twitching. It won’t die unless exposed to fire or acid - and you have a round to make that decision.

Leena stands fast as she suspects that Nimm might have a scheme or sorts up his sleeve, despite the fact that she hates giants with a passion. This one is like none other that she or any of you have ever faced.

What’ll it be? Kill it or something else?

Arcivus figures Nimm wants to harvest a gland or spleen or something like that, and spend some time trying to secure the area for unseen threaths... perception: 19+1 = 20

[Xavier Alexis]

"Perhaps this troll could be put to good use. Should we offer it a chance to join Bear Ghost's tribe?"

[Dr_Nimm]

"Perhaps this troll could be put to good use. Should we offer it a chance to join Bear Ghost's tribe?"

::Already has dissection tools in hand:: "Errm... I was thinking of cutting it open and studying it. I must know how it got two heads! Imagine if I had two heads. The possibilities are astonishing! Twice the cognition. I could work on two separate designs at the same time. Read two books at the same time. Read one book twice as fast! I would never waste time sleeping! Each head merely takes turns! This is a breakthrough, Xavier! A breakthrough! "

[DM7581]

::Already has dissection tools in hand:: "Errm... I was thinking of cutting it open and studying it. I must know how it got two heads! Imagine if I had two heads. The possibilities are astonishing! Twice the cognition. I could work on two separate designs at the same time. Read two books at the same time. Read one book twice as fast! I would never waste time sleeping! Each head merely takes turns! This is a breakthrough, Xavier! A breakthrough! "

Leena: Well, this isn't the worst place to take a rest... It looks like it was a small camp site at one point. We have the mountains at our back and good cover with the trees...

The troll remains alive, and Dr. Nimm can work on a live specimen for as long as he likes. He simply needs to stab it or dab some acid (continued use of fire is more difficult in the cold and snowy conditions).

--

Dr. Nimm coins this a Dire Troll. It may be the first of its kind, at least the first that has ever been discovered. After cutting it open and exploring the innards, it is revealed that the creature probably went mad at some point and succumbed to cannibalism. There is a fair amount of wild game, so it was likely not due to lack of food, but something else.

In its continuing descent to madness, it starts using the limbs of the creatures it would slay, namely other trolls, and attach arms, even heads, and other appendages to itself, as it would continue to grow to an even larger size due to the interaction of its new diet.

At this point, the creature becomes solitary and has either killed all of its former clan mates or has driven them off. The remainder of its life would likely have been in "solitude," though the fact that it had multiple heads, likely from former prey, and all with differing personalities, would suggest that the creature would never be truly alone.

As far as it joining Bear Ghost's tribe... not really an option. It would succumb to cannibalism and try to eat other clan members and generally be a destructive force. There really is no socially acceptable place for a creature like this to exist.

--

You all hang out a bit and take a break (bathroom, food, drink, sit), if only to let Dr. Nimm work on the fresh specimen. A limb can be severed, and continue to grow, but might act very bestial if not contained. Same goes for a head. Parts may eventually regenerate into a full troll, but it would take some time. Not sure if this is something you would want to experiment on.

We moving on, resting (a short rest is 8 hours), or something else?

[Ketiara]

Leena: Well, this isn't the worst place to take a rest... It looks like it was a small camp site at one point. We have the mountains at our back and good cover with the trees...

The troll remains alive, and Dr. Nimm can work on a live specimen for as long as he likes. He simply needs to stab it or dab some acid (continued use of fire is more difficult in the cold and snowy conditions).

--

Dr. Nimm coins this a Dire Troll. It may be the first of its kind, at least the first that has ever been discovered. After cutting it open and exploring the innards, it is revealed that the creature probably went mad at some point and succumbed to cannibalism. There is a fair amount of wild game, so it was likely not due to lack of food, but something else.

In its continuing descent to madness, it starts using the limbs of the creatures it would slay, namely other trolls, and attach arms, even heads, and other appendages to itself, as it would continue to grow to an even larger size due to the interaction of its new diet.

At this point, the creature becomes solitary and has either killed all of its former clan mates or has driven them off. The remainder of its life would likely have been in "solitude," though the fact that it had multiple heads, likely from former prey, and all with differing personalities, would suggest that the creature would never be truly alone.

As far as it joining Bear Ghost's tribe... not really an option. It would succumb to cannibalism and try to eat other clan members and generally be a destructive force. There really is no socially acceptable place for a creature like this to exist.

--

You all hang out a bit and take a break (bathroom, food, drink, sit), if only to let Dr. Nimm work on the fresh specimen. A limb can be severed, and continue to grow, but might act very bestial if not contained. Same goes for a head. Parts may eventually regenerate into a full troll, but it would take some time. Not sure if this is something you would want to experiment on.

We moving on, resting (a short rest is 8 hours), or something else?

Arcivus rests and pray whenever possible. He never know when he can rest next time, so whenever the chance arises he take it. During this time, he observe Nimm.

[Dr_Nimm]

"Fascinating. Fascinating."

I remove a finger from each of its hands and one eye and one ear from each head.

"I will grow these and observe the results. I'm interested to see if it will grow a 3 headed troll again or grow the original troll."

[DM7581]

"Fascinating. Fascinating."

I remove a finger from each of its hands and one eye and one ear from each head.

"I will grow these and observe the results. I'm interested to see if it will grow a 3 headed troll again or grow the original troll."

Remember that starvation is a thing. if it takes too long to grow a part, it will eventually whither.

This is not 100% inline with how troll regeneration is explained, but since we are merging science here, it needs to be explainable.

That being said, a limb will continue to regenerate, but without a way to sustain it, it will effectively "starve" before it can grow into its own new body.

You may be able to do it, but it will take time and resources.

[Dr_Nimm]

For now I try a nutrient bath using some of my rations, boiling the food to a broth and using alchemical preservatives and minerals to slow down the spoiling of both the broth and the organs.

I place the parts in specimen containers. One one set of parts I add a bit of healing potion to the broth. Take notes and check progress the next day.

[DM7581]

For now I try a nutrient bath using some of my rations, boiling the food to a broth and using alchemical preservatives and minerals to slow down the spoiling of both the broth and the organs.

I place the parts in specimen containers. One one set of parts I add a bit of healing potion to the broth. Take notes and check progress the next day.

Cool. I may ask for some checks in the coming days.

An to answer Xavier, your Psi Points recover after a long rest (7 days), not a short rest (8 hours). You all rested prior to coming here. How many have you used since?

--

In any event, not wanting to sit for 8 hours, and the day still young, you begin to climb the mountain. I'd typically call for checks here, but Arcivus is strong enough to assist where needed, as is Mr. Benson. Leena and Reli fare well on their own.

Visibility is limited and the combination of ice, snow, and wind make this very rough terrain. About an hour or so into it, you can barely make out a few flying creatures circling a bit overhead. It is hard to make them out. At this distance they look like very big birds. You see at least 3.

It is going to take a LONG time to climb this mountain. Think Everest, which I read can take about 2 months. I will say that you are all equivalent to expert climbers, if not due to supernatural abilities, so should make this shorter. The fastest recorded time for anyone to have climbed Everest is about 11 hours.

I'll say you can all do it in around 12 hours, with minimal stops, but you will be severely winded (exhaustion). Taking more time to stop/rest will help minimize this. Magic may help. Whats the call?

[Dr_Nimm]

Cool. I may ask for some checks in the coming days.

An to answer Xavier, your Psi Points recover after a long rest (7 days), not a short rest (8 hours). You all rested prior to coming here. How many have you used since?

--

In any event, not wanting to sit for 8 hours, and the day still young, you begin to climb the mountain. I'd typically call for checks here, but Arcivus is strong enough to assist where needed, as is Mr. Benson. Leena and Reli fare well on their own.

Visibility is limited and the combination of ice, snow, and wind make this very rough terrain. About an hour or so into it, you can barely make out a few flying creatures circling a bit overhead. It is hard to make them out. At this distance they look like very big birds. You see at least 3.

It is going to take a LONG time to climb this mountain. Think Everest, which I read can take about 2 months. I will say that you are all equivalent to expert climbers, if not due to supernatural abilities, so should make this shorter. The fastest recorded time for anyone to have climbed Everest is about 11 hours.

I'll say you can all do it in around 12 hours, with minimal stops, but you will be severely winded (exhaustion). Taking more time to stop/rest will help minimize this. Magic may help. Whats the call?

Two 6 hour shifts

[DM7581]

Two 6 hour shifts

Leena couldn't care less (she would just push on), and everyone else heed's Dr. Nimm's advice...

The first few hours go by fairly uneventful. You keep your eye on the circling birds. They seem to notice you, but at the range that they are at, keep a fairly safe distance. The cold is blistering. Everyone is bundled up. You manage through a few slips and falls, but nothing treacherous. This path is clearly made for much larger creatures, at least frost giants, which you suspect may have had a presence here at one time or another.

After 6 hours, everyone is fairly exhausted...

Arcivus has suffered 2 levels of exhaustion (disadvantage on ability checks, speed halved).

Dr. Nimm and Xavier each suffer 1 level of exhaustion (only disadvantage on ability checks).

Only a long rest removes exhaustion, so you can push on or use magic to restore your vitality.

You take a short rest that night, as the day closes. Leena prepares a fire and finds a suitable place to rest. You all snack on some dried foods.

Any conversation or roleplay worth noting before settling in for the night?

[Dr_Nimm]

Is there a concoction I can make to restore exhaustion?

[Dr_Nimm]

With my portable lab and class bonus, how long will it take for me to brew a potion of vitality?

I can also cast greater resto

[Ketiara]

Leena couldn't care less (she would just push on), and everyone else heed's Dr. Nimm's advice...

The first few hours go by fairly uneventful. You keep your eye on the circling birds. They seem to notice you, but at the range that they are at, keep a fairly safe distance. The cold is blistering. Everyone is bundled up. You manage through a few slips and falls, but nothing treacherous. This path is clearly made for much larger creatures, at least frost giants, which you suspect may have had a presence here at one time or another.

After 6 hours, everyone is fairly exhausted...

Arcivus has suffered 2 levels of exhaustion (disadvantage on ability checks, speed halved).

Dr. Nimm and Xavier each suffer 1 level of exhaustion (only disadvantage on ability checks).

Only a long rest removes exhaustion, so you can push on or use magic to restore your vitality.

You take a short rest that night, as the day closes. Leena prepares a fire and finds a suitable place to rest. You all snack on some dried foods.

Any conversation or roleplay worth noting before settling in for the night?

Arcivus is very embarrassed about his exhaustion, blames his armor if anyone asks. :)

[DM7581]

Arcivus is very embarrassed about his exhaustion, blames his armor if anyone asks. :)

Indeed, with your speed halved, it will double the amount of time for day 2 to 12 hours...

The potion will cost you 500 GP and take about 10 days for 1.

[Dr_Nimm]

Indeed, with your speed halved, it will double the amount of time for day 2 to 12 hours...

The potion will cost you 500 GP and take about 10 days for 1.

Who are you talking to?

Remember I have a class bonus and an artifact that speeds potion making

[Xavier Alexis]

"Come, my friends. I will attempt to let the power of our minds relieve our fatigue."

I use Psionic Mastery 4 times, which grants me 11 special psi points per use, to heal our group.

I activate Psionic Restoration (Restore Vigor) to negate all levels of exhaustion from Arcivus, Dr. Nimm and I, spending 7 special psi points per level of exhaustion.

With the remaining 4 special psi points per use of Psionic Mastery, I activate Psionic Restoration (Mend Wounds) and heal any injured allies 4d8 hit points. Rolls are 14, 23, 18 and 12.

I also use Mystical Recovery so every psi point I use heals me by 1 hit point.

I change my psychic focus to Mastery of Air, allowing me to ignore difficult terrain while walking. It also grants me immunity to damage caused from falling.

[Dr_Nimm]

During this time I perform the ritual to find familiar. However, I bring back Rupert in a different form, per the spell descriptor.

"I will recreate Rupert in a form that complements his intelligence. He shall be reborn as a parrot"

[Dr_Nimm]

"Come, my friends. I will attempt to let the power of our minds relieve our fatigue."

I use Psionic Mastery 4 times, which grants me 11 special psi points per use, to heal our group.

I activate Psionic Restoration (Restore Vigor) to negate all levels of exhaustion from Arcivus, Dr. Nimm and I, spending 7 special psi points per level of exhaustion.

With the remaining 4 special psi points per use of Psionic Mastery, I activate Psionic Restoration (Mend Wounds) and heal any injured allies 4d8 hit points. Rolls are 14, 23, 18 and 12.

I also use Mystical Recovery so every psi point I use heals me by 1 hit point.

I change my psychic focus to Mastery of Air, allowing me to ignore difficult terrain while walking. It also grants me immunity to damage caused from falling.

"Most impressive! To manifest this with neither incantation nor alchemy defies all known occult sciences and arcanologies!"

[Xavier Alexis]

"Most impressive! To manifest this with neither incantation nor alchemy defies all known occult sciences and arcanologies!"

"Perhaps there is a way to preserve this psionic vessel if we are successful in restoring my magical abilities. If so, you can gain a further understanding of psionic abilities."

[DM7581]

Arcivus is very embarrassed about his exhaustion, blames his armor if anyone asks. :)

You all notice that Leena has been mostly unaffected by the rough terrain and is usually ahead of you all (and often times scouting a bit ahead and/or waiting). The cold weather is a bit rough for all though, yet she seems more at home than anyone else.

--

So you all estimate a similar journey for the next part of the trip and take a short rest.

It is a cold and wet night, with a mixture of both rain and snow. Loud cracks of thunder and lightning can be heard and seen throughout the night as well. The harsh winds make rest uncomfortable at best, and the silhouettes of the giant circling birds has yet to fade. Wolves howl off into the distance, barely audible over the loud winds. Mr. Benson stands vigilant at guard, but is eventually joined by Leena after her brief trance.

"Day" breaks, but aside from a bit more light, the conditions continue. Leena has a small, but nourishing meal prepped as you awaken, as she seems to somehow keep a fire lit with the little mountain cover that she has.

You all head off after your mourning routines. Xavier mediates in silence. Dr. Nimm has his morning pipe as he scribbles and jots notes in his tome. Arcivus and Danae sit in prayer and some light morning calisthenics.

--

About 2 hours in, Leena halts you all. Visibility has gotten very bad, maybe 50 feet at most due in part both to the rain, snow, and rising fog. In order to speak, one must yell, and she seems apprehensive to do so. She is gesturing at you all pointing to your sides and behind you, waving her fingers in a circle.

Let me get your marching order (Leena and Reli are up front, but someone can be beside or right behind them) as well as an Int check to try to figure out what she is trying to convey. If you have the Survival skill, feel free to add that in.

[Xavier Alexis]

You all notice that Leena has been mostly unaffected by the rough terrain and is usually ahead of you all (and often times scouting a bit ahead and/or waiting). The cold weather is a bit rough for all though, yet she seems more at home than anyone else.

--

So you all estimate a similar journey for the next part of the trip and take a short rest.

It is a cold and wet night, with a mixture of both rain and snow. Loud cracks of thunder and lightning can be heard and seen throughout the night as well. The harsh winds make rest uncomfortable at best, and the silhouettes of the giant circling birds has yet to fade. Wolves howl off into the distance, barely audible over the loud winds. Mr. Benson stands vigilant at guard, but is eventually joined by Leena after her brief trance.

"Day" breaks, but aside from a bit more light, the conditions continue. Leena has a small, but nourishing meal prepped as you awaken, as she seems to somehow keep a fire lit with the little mountain cover that she has.

You all head off after your mourning routines. Xavier mediates in silence. Dr. Nimm has his morning pipe as he scribbles and jots notes in his tome. Arcivus and Danae sit in prayer and some light morning calisthenics.

--

About 2 hours in, Leena halts you all. Visibility has gotten very bad, maybe 50 feet at most due in part both to the rain, snow, and rising fog. In order to speak, one must yell, and she seems apprehensive to do so. She is gesturing at you all pointing to your sides and behind you, waving her fingers in a circle.

Let me get your marching order (Leena and Reli are up front, but someone can be beside or right behind them) as well as an Int check to try to figure out what she is trying to convey. If you have the Survival skill, feel free to add that in.

Intelligence check 17+6 = 23.

I stay about 5 feet behind Arcivus.

I change my Psychic Focus to Telepathic Contact. This allows me to telepathically communicate with up to six creatures at once.

Instead of yelling, I communicate telepathically with Leena and the rest of our group.

"Leena, speak to me using your thoughts and I will relay the information to our allies."

I relay all information Leena gives me to everyone else.

[Ketiara]

Intelligence check 17+6 = 23.

I stay about 5 feet behind Arcivus.

I change my Psychic Focus to Telepathic Contact. This allows me to telepathically communicate with up to six creatures at once.

Instead of yelling, I communicate telepathically with Leena and the rest of our group.

"Leena, speak to me using your thoughts and I will relay the information to our allies."

I relay all information Leena gives me to everyone else.

Relieved from his exhaustion and with evergrowing respect for Xavier, Arcivus takes lead (with Leena infront scouting), protecting Xavier, and Nimm behind him.
With a good survival roll Arcivus may perhaps do some good: 18+1 =19.

[Dr_Nimm]

You all notice that Leena has been mostly unaffected by the rough terrain and is usually ahead of you all (and often times scouting a bit ahead and/or waiting). The cold weather is a bit rough for all though, yet she seems more at home than anyone else.

--

So you all estimate a similar journey for the next part of the trip and take a short rest.

It is a cold and wet night, with a mixture of both rain and snow. Loud cracks of thunder and lightning can be heard and seen throughout the night as well. The harsh winds make rest uncomfortable at best, and the silhouettes of the giant circling birds has yet to fade. Wolves howl off into the distance, barely audible over the loud winds. Mr. Benson stands vigilant at guard, but is eventually joined by Leena after her brief trance.

"Day" breaks, but aside from a bit more light, the conditions continue. Leena has a small, but nourishing meal prepped as you awaken, as she seems to somehow keep a fire lit with the little mountain cover that she has.

You all head off after your mourning routines. Xavier mediates in silence. Dr. Nimm has his morning pipe as he scribbles and jots notes in his tome. Arcivus and Danae sit in prayer and some light morning calisthenics.

--

About 2 hours in, Leena halts you all. Visibility has gotten very bad, maybe 50 feet at most due in part both to the rain, snow, and rising fog. In order to speak, one must yell, and she seems apprehensive to do so. She is gesturing at you all pointing to your sides and behind you, waving her fingers in a circle.

Let me get your marching order (Leena and Reli are up front, but someone can be beside or right behind them) as well as an Int check to try to figure out what she is trying to convey. If you have the Survival skill, feel free to add that in.

I follow the March order given by Archie.

LOL Int check 12

[DM7581]

I follow the March order given by Archie.

LOL Int check 12

We will say that the order is as follows:

Leena w/ Reli at point
Arcivus about 10 feet behind, with Danae within 5 feet of him
Xavier and Dr. Nimm about 10 feet behind him, 5 feet apart from each other
Mr. Benson covering the rear

Arcivus and Xavier immediately understand what is going on. Apparently you are all being circled, as if in an ambush. Dr. Nimm simply saw her waiving around, and did not make much of her wild gestures, attributing them to her feral and unsophisticated nature.

FYI Xavier: Changing your Psychic Focus can be done as a Bonus Action on your turn, so while you understand that something is about to happen, yu cannot react quickly enough to convey the message to Dr. Nimm. Danae and Mr. Benson seem to not have gotten the drift either.

Suddenly, massive white wolves--winter wolves--come within view, surrounding you all from all sides. Too many to count.

Leena reacts quick and opens fire on 1 of the 2 at point. She then has Reli charge in and face off against it in melee.

Nat 20 for the arrow for 54 damage. Reli charges forward and snaps twice at the same one, hitting both times for 23. The second bite drops the creature, as Reli continues to maul and snap at the body as it goes limp.

The wolf near Reli engages with him, biting Reli now, with a crit for 13 damage.

The remaining wolves close around you and catch you all, simultaneously, with a blast of freezing wind. Depending on where you are, you get hit with a different number of breaths. Being in the middle (Arcivus, Danae, Xavier, and Dr. Nimm) puts you at the greatest risk...

Leena takes a total of 23 cold damage.
Arcivus takes 105 cold damage. Let's just say that Danae is down and not looking good...
Xavier takes 52 cold damage.
Dr. Nimm takes 60 cold damage.
Mr. Benson takes 35 cold damage.

There are 11 wolves. 1 is engaged in front with Reli, 4 are on each of your flanks, and 2 are at the rear.

Let's go Arcivus and Xavier. Dr. Nimm cannot act this round since he is surprised. Remember that ranged attacks are at disadvantage and visibility is limited. You can get around the noise once Xavier activates his Telepathic Contact.

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 121/144; Reli: 67/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (11 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 99/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 110/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (both surprised; Dr. Nimm: 123/183, Mr. Benson: 45/80)

[Dr_Nimm]

"Leena grows more savage by the day. Waving her arms about like a frustrated chimpanzee -
WOOOOOOLVES!"

[Xavier Alexis]

As my reaction, I activate Adaptive Body (Adaptive Shield) to grant myself resistance to the cold damage the wolves just inflicted on me. This resistance lasts until the end of my next turn.

As my action, I activate Psionic Restoration (Mend Wounds) to heal Arcivus 7d8 (25) hit points.

[Ketiara]

We will say that the order is as follows:

Leena w/ Reli at point
Arcivus about 10 feet behind, with Danae within 5 feet of him
Xavier and Dr. Nimm about 10 feet behind him, 5 feet apart from each other
Mr. Benson covering the rear

Arcivus and Xavier immediately understand what is going on. Apparently you are all being circled, as if in an ambush. Dr. Nimm simply saw her waiving around, and did not make much of her wild gestures, attributing them to her feral and unsophisticated nature.

FYI Xavier: Changing your Psychic Focus can be done as a Bonus Action on your turn, so while you understand that something is about to happen, yu cannot react quickly enough to convey the message to Dr. Nimm. Danae and Mr. Benson seem to not have gotten the drift either.

Suddenly, massive white wolves--winter wolves--come within view, surrounding you all from all sides. Too many to count.

Leena reacts quick and opens fire on 1 of the 2 at point. She then has Reli charge in and face off against it in melee.

Nat 20 for the arrow for 54 damage. Reli charges forward and snaps twice at the same one, hitting both times for 23. The second bite drops the creature, as Reli continues to maul and snap at the body as it goes limp.

The wolf near Reli engages with him, biting Reli now, with a crit for 13 damage.

The remaining wolves close around you and catch you all, simultaneously, with a blast of freezing wind. Depending on where you are, you get hit with a different number of breaths. Being in the middle (Arcivus, Danae, Xavier, and Dr. Nimm) puts you at the greatest risk...

Leena takes a total of 23 cold damage.
Arcivus takes 105 cold damage. Let's just say that Danae is down and not looking good...
Xavier takes 52 cold damage.
Dr. Nimm takes 60 cold damage.
Mr. Benson takes 35 cold damage.

There are 11 wolves. 1 is engaged in front with Reli, 4 are on each of your flanks, and 2 are at the rear.

Let's go Arcivus and Xavier. Dr. Nimm cannot act this round since he is surprised. Remember that ranged attacks are at disadvantage and visibility is limited. You can get around the noise once Xavier activates his Telepathic Contact.

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 121/144; Reli: 67/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (11 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 99/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 110/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (both surprised; Dr. Nimm: 123/183, Mr. Benson: 45/80)

If Arcivus actually managed to make one of the saves, he uses his reaction (and shield master feat) to completely avoid the damage.

Arcivus then use his LOH to fully heal Danae and then a bonus action to cast sanctuary on her. And then push her out of harms way.
"Move out of here, dont get caught in their blasts"

[DM7581]

If Arcivus actually managed to make one of the saves, he uses his reaction (and shield master feat) to completely avoid the damage.

Arcivus then use his LOH to fully heal Danae and then a bonus action to cast sanctuary on her. And then push her out of harms way.
"Move out of here, dont get caught in their blasts"

Modified everyone's HP, including two of Arcivus' successful saves.

Leena goes again and fires now at the wolf engaged with Reli. Reli then continues to snap at the wolf. They combine (no crits this time) for 57 damage. The wolf at point is still up.

Frustrated at not dropping Reli with a crit, this one now breathes a blast of cold, catching only Reli and Leena. They only take 7 damage a piece.

The rest dive in to attack or breath once again. It is a flurry of large white bodies and flurries of snow and wind, with the wolves cold breath, snaps, and snarls, the only thing that can be felt and heard in the fray!

Since Arcivus used his action to protect Danae, I will give an additional bonus to her saves.

Leena is hit by another 2 blasts and engaged in melee by a wolf. She takes an additional 15 damage.

Arcivus, Xavier, and Dr. Nimm are hit by 3 more blasts each and are engaged in melee by a wolf each. HP damage is updated below and includes all resistances.

Danae was safely placed at the center, with Arcivus at her guard.

We go Arcivus (Danae), Xavier, and Nimm (Benson).

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 99/144; Reli: 60/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (11 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 123/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 126/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (Dr. Nimm: 86/183, Mr. Benson: 14/80)

[Ketiara]

Modified everyone's HP, including two of Arcivus' successful saves.

Leena goes again and fires now at the wolf engaged with Reli. Reli then continues to snap at the wolf. They combine (no crits this time) for 57 damage. The wolf at point is still up.

Frustrated at not dropping Reli with a crit, this one now breathes a blast of cold, catching only Reli and Leena. They only take 7 damage a piece.

The rest dive in to attack or breath once again. It is a flurry of large white bodies and flurries of snow and wind, with the wolves cold breath, snaps, and snarls, the only thing that can be felt and heard in the fray!

Since Arcivus used his action to protect Danae, I will give an additional bonus to her saves.

Leena is hit by another 2 blasts and engaged in melee by a wolf. She takes an additional 15 damage.

Arcivus, Xavier, and Dr. Nimm are hit by 3 more blasts each and are engaged in melee by a wolf each. HP damage is updated below and includes all resistances.

Danae was safely placed at the center, with Arcivus at her guard.

We go Arcivus (Danae), Xavier, and Nimm (Benson).

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 99/144; Reli: 60/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (11 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 123/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 126/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (Dr. Nimm: 86/183, Mr. Benson: 14/80)

Arcivus chops down on the nearest wolf hoping to cleave it in half.
1: 16+3 = 19 ; (1d8)3 +10 + (1d8)5 + (2d8)12 = 30 dam
2: 16+4 = 29 ; (1d8)2 +10 + (1d8)3 + (2d8)13 = 28 dam

then as a bonus action he knock the creature over (or tries to)
Athletics: 2+13 = 15

"Danae you must move out of the breath zone of these beasts... I cant allow for you to die!"

[DM7581]

Arcivus chops down on the nearest wolf hoping to cleave it in half.
1: 16+3 = 19 ; (1d8)3 +10 + (1d8)5 + (2d8)12 = 30 dam
2: 16+4 = 29 ; (1d8)2 +10 + (1d8)3 + (2d8)13 = 28 dam

then as a bonus action he knock the creature over (or tries to)
Athletics: 2+13 = 15

"Danae you must move out of the breath zone of these beasts... I cant allow for you to die!"

You swipe at the front wolf on the left side. Both attacks hit, but the wolf still stands. Your kick to knock the wolf fails (he is large, so imagine that you are looking at him, almost face to face). It snarls and snaps at you after your strikes, which draw blood.

Danae takes the Disengage action and positions herself opposite the same, weakened wolf, but still within line of sight (bout 20 feet). The one wolf notices this, as a glimmer of intelligence is seen in its eyes. It snarls and yaps at the others in what seems like a primitive form of communication.


The girl is weakest. We take her, leave the rest!


We go to Xavier and then Nimm.

There are quite a few left (only 1 is dead of 12). The one fighting Reli as well as the one on Arcivus are injured. The rest (10) are unscathed.

[Xavier Alexis]

I activate Psychic Disruption (Mind Storm) and target as many wolves as possible. I inflict 6d8 (32) psychic damage.

Each creature in a 20-foot-radius sphere must make a Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, a target takes 6d8 psychic damage and suffers disadvantage on all saving throws until the end of my next turn.

On a successful save, a creature takes half as much damage.

[DM7581]

I activate Psychic Disruption (Mind Storm) and target as many wolves as possible. I inflict 6d8 (32) psychic damage.

Each creature in a 20-foot-radius sphere must make a Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, a target takes 6d8 psychic damage and suffers disadvantage on all saving throws until the end of my next turn.

On a successful save, a creature takes half as much damage.

You get all of the wolves, except for the one at point that Reli moved forward to engage with. The others are basically surrounding you all, so are all well within 20 feet of you.

The weakened wolf in front of Arcivus goes down, but the others are still up. Most of them look like they took the full effect of the rippling blast, but its hard to tell.

Down to 10 wolves, many of which look a little shaken, but not noticeably injured.

Dr. Nimm! And don't forget about Mr. Benson!

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 99/144; Reli: 60/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (10 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 123/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 126/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (Dr. Nimm: 86/183, Mr. Benson: 14/80)

[Dr_Nimm]

Can you describe the natural surroundings in more detail?

The wolves are basically surrounding us in a pie slice even fashion or are they in scattered clusters?

[DM7581]

Can you describe the natural surroundings in more detail?

The wolves are basically surrounding us in a pie slice even fashion or are they in scattered clusters?

More or less pie slice even, except that one at point and the one near Arcivus on the left flank are down.

Check the messenger drawing sent.

As far as the terrain, you are along a wide cliff path, with the mountain to your left. The path is at least 50 feet wide and you all are more or less centered due to the rougher terrain at the cliff base, and well away from the cliff itself to not be a casualty to falling. There are trees scattered here and there, along the base, as well as stones and other rubble.

The main path is fairly scarce, as it seems that it had been trekked by giants for some time (up until recently at least), so there are no trees or any other obstacles.

[Dr_Nimm]

It seems I can catch 3 wolves with a fireball if I detonate it further out. Therefore, I have Mr Benson attempt to push a 4th wolf into the blast radius if you're using that rule.

Athletics 17 + prof bonus if he has one.

If you're not using that rule or it's simply not possible, consider that his attack roll for 12 damage.

"Mr Benson! JUDO PROTOCOLS!"

My fireball does 37 damage.

[DM7581]

It seems I can catch 3 wolves with a fireball if I detonate it further out. Therefore, I have Mr Benson attempt to push a 4th wolf into the blast radius if you're using that rule.

Athletics 17 + prof bonus if he has one.

If you're not using that rule or it's simply not possible, consider that his attack roll for 12 damage.

"Mr Benson! JUDO PROTOCOLS!"

My fireball does 37 damage.

I like it.

Here is Mr. Benson's stat block for you... it should have been on your sheet, or at least one of the copies I sent you with updates.


Golem: Mister Benson (Large Construct)
18 (+4), 10 (+0), 20 (+5), 4 (-3), 10 (+0), 2 (-4)
HP: 14/80
AC: 18
Speed: 30
Saves: Str +10, Dex +6, Con +11, Int +3, Wis +6, Cha +2
Advantage on saves against magic
Resistance to non-magical/non-adamantine weapon attacks
Attack: 2 Slams (+13, 2d8+10 B dam)


That being said, this is basically a Str vs. Str check, Benson having a +4.

The winter wolves seem equally strong. Mr. Benson grabs on to the 2 front arms of the creature as he tries to lift it and...

Mr. Benson: 17+4=22
Winter Wolf: 4+4=8

Success! He flips the wolf backward, staggering it a few feet, just as you let off your blast. This is a close call, because he was only able to move him about 5 feet. I'm thinking of making this 10 feet... just for the sake of scaling with creature size, but in the end the result is the same.

Your fireball goes off and catches all 4 of them. While all of them seem to have taken the brunt of the blast, none are dead. Their coats are charred and they look pretty weak, however.

Top of the round...

Reli continues to face off against the wolf at point, one-to-one. He snaps at it twice, the first bit knocking it prone. He inflicts 26 damage.

Leena sees the 4 wolves, fairly grouped together, and takes the opportunity to unleash a spell of her own. She draws and looses and arrow, which crackles with electrical energy as it is released. It strikes the wolf at center right, the wolf is shocked by the electricity, which momentarily lights up the area, and shocks the 2 adjacent to it. All 3 are electrocuted from her Lightning Arrow spell, and drop to the ground, with a not much more than a few loud yelps and muscle twitches.

The wolves go next and seem a bit scattered.


Retreat! Get the weak one!


The prone wolf at point gets up and uses the Disengage action to retreat out of sight.

The one at the rear near Mr. Benson retreats as well.

The remaining 4 (left side), simultaneously, make a grab for Danae as they flee. This leaves them open for an attack.

Arcivus, Xavier, and Mr. Benson can all swing at the wolf nearest them that is fleeing. The fourth wolf was closest to Leena, but she is wielding a bow and is not threatening it in melee.

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 99/144; Reli: 60/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (7 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 123/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 126/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (Dr. Nimm: 86/183, Mr. Benson: 14/80)

[Xavier Alexis]

I attack one of the fleeing wolves with my dagger.

Attack roll is 11+8 = 19.

Damage roll is 4+2 = 6.

[DM7581]

I attack one of the fleeing wolves with my dagger.

Attack roll is 11+8 = 19.

Damage roll is 4+2 = 6.

Xavier let's off an effeminate whimper as he slashes pathetically at the fleeing wolf. The sharp blade barely nicks its skin under its heavy coat.

In embarrassment, he nearly soils himself as well.

[Ketiara]

I like it.

Here is Mr. Benson's stat block for you... it should have been on your sheet, or at least one of the copies I sent you with updates.


Golem: Mister Benson (Large Construct)
18 (+4), 10 (+0), 20 (+5), 4 (-3), 10 (+0), 2 (-4)
HP: 14/80
AC: 18
Speed: 30
Saves: Str +10, Dex +6, Con +11, Int +3, Wis +6, Cha +2
Advantage on saves against magic
Resistance to non-magical/non-adamantine weapon attacks
Attack: 2 Slams (+13, 2d8+10 B dam)


That being said, this is basically a Str vs. Str check, Benson having a +4.

The winter wolves seem equally strong. Mr. Benson grabs on to the 2 front arms of the creature as he tries to lift it and...

Mr. Benson: 17+4=22
Winter Wolf: 4+4=8

Success! He flips the wolf backward, staggering it a few feet, just as you let off your blast. This is a close call, because he was only able to move him about 5 feet. I'm thinking of making this 10 feet... just for the sake of scaling with creature size, but in the end the result is the same.

Your fireball goes off and catches all 4 of them. While all of them seem to have taken the brunt of the blast, none are dead. Their coats are charred and they look pretty weak, however.

Top of the round...

Reli continues to face off against the wolf at point, one-to-one. He snaps at it twice, the first bit knocking it prone. He inflicts 26 damage.

Leena sees the 4 wolves, fairly grouped together, and takes the opportunity to unleash a spell of her own. She draws and looses and arrow, which crackles with electrical energy as it is released. It strikes the wolf at center right, the wolf is shocked by the electricity, which momentarily lights up the area, and shocks the 2 adjacent to it. All 3 are electrocuted from her Lightning Arrow spell, and drop to the ground, with a not much more than a few loud yelps and muscle twitches.

The wolves go next and seem a bit scattered.


Retreat! Get the weak one!


The prone wolf at point gets up and uses the Disengage action to retreat out of sight.

The one at the rear near Mr. Benson retreats as well.

The remaining 4 (left side), simultaneously, make a grab for Danae as they flee. This leaves them open for an attack.

Arcivus, Xavier, and Mr. Benson can all swing at the wolf nearest them that is fleeing. The fourth wolf was closest to Leena, but she is wielding a bow and is not threatening it in melee.

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 99/144; Reli: 60/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (7 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 123/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 126/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (Dr. Nimm: 86/183, Mr. Benson: 14/80)

Arcivus swings at the wolf:
11+17=28 ; (1d8)6+10 (1d8)3 + 1st lvl spell(2d8)8 = 27 dam.

Arcivus tries to further their flight by yelling: intimidate 20

[DM7581]

Arcivus swings at the wolf:
11+17=28 ; (1d8)6+10 (1d8)3 + 1st lvl spell(2d8)8 = 27 dam.

Arcivus tries to further their flight by yelling: intimidate 20

Further indeed.

Mr. Benson gets a hit in for 25 damage, but then one of the wolves grapples Danae, and drags her off!

The remaining 3 stay close behind, as if in a diamond formation, and they seem to be moving a bit slower than they could be moving if not for dragging away an unwilling victim.

Due to the weather and fog, they quickly move just within sight (about 30 feet out). Danae is behind taken by the wolf at point in this group of 4, heading to the left (let's say it is West for simplicity). The remaining 3 that fled are currently out of sight...

Arcivus can go. Danae's attempt to free herself...

Fails (by a single point!), so she is still grappled and being dragged off.

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 99/144; Reli: 60/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (7 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 123/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 126/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (Dr. Nimm: 86/183, Mr. Benson: 14/80)

[Ketiara]

Further indeed.

Mr. Benson gets a hit in for 25 damage, but then one of the wolves grapples Danae, and drags her off!

The remaining 3 stay close behind, as if in a diamond formation, and they seem to be moving a bit slower than they could be moving if not for dragging away an unwilling victim.

Due to the weather and fog, they quickly move just within sight (about 30 feet out). Danae is behind taken by the wolf at point in this group of 4, heading to the left (let's say it is West for simplicity). The remaining 3 that fled are currently out of sight...

Arcivus can go. Danae's attempt to free herself...

Fails (by a single point!), so she is still grappled and being dragged off.

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 99/144; Reli: 60/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (7 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 123/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 126/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (Dr. Nimm: 86/183, Mr. Benson: 14/80)

Remember that Danae has winged boots... So she takes off as soon as she gets the chance, I would think.

Arcivus moves in the direction of the wolf that has Danae. And if he gets a visual he throws a javelin at the wolf.
18+15 = 33 ; 15 damage

[DM7581]

Remember that Danae has winged boots... So she takes off as soon as she gets the chance, I would think.

Arcivus moves in the direction of the wolf that has Danae. And if he gets a visual he throws a javelin at the wolf.
18+15 = 33 ; 15 damage

You close in as quick as you can, and are able to keep pace with the wolves. There is one right ahead of you, 2 at the flanks, and then the one at point with Danae.

Your attack is at disadvantage (all range attacks are due to the inclement weather), but (15) it still hits. The wolf is still, up though, and it has your javelin sticking out of it, so it is easy to spot.

Xavier, you go! Then Dr. Nimm!

--

Initiative:

Leena/Reli: 30 (Leena: 99/144; Reli: 60/80)
Winter Wolves: 21 (7 remaining)
Arcivus/Danae: 13 (Arcivus: 123/204)
Xavier: 12 (HP: 126/162)
Dr. Nimm/Mr. Benson: 12 (Dr. Nimm: 86/183, Mr. Benson: 14/80)

[Xavier Alexis]

"Arcivus, I will attempt to control the wolf that has Danae and bring it to you. Prepare to strike!"

As my action, I activate Telepathic Contact (Broken Will) and target the wolf carrying Danae.

Upon the wolf failing a DC 22 Intelligence Save, I choose its movement and action on its next turn.

I will have the wolf move to Arcivus and drop Danae at his feet.

As my bonus action, I activate Mystical Recovery, regaining 5 hit points.

After this, I have 57 psi points remaining.

[DM7581]

"Arcivus, I will attempt to control the wolf that has Danae and bring it to you. Prepare to strike!"

As my action, I activate Telepathic Contact (Broken Will) and target the wolf carrying Danae.

Upon the wolf failing a DC 22 Intelligence Save, I choose its movement and action on its next turn.

I will have the wolf move to Arcivus and drop Danae at his feet.

As my bonus action, I activate Mystical Recovery, regaining 5 hit points.

After this, I have 57 psi points remaining.

Very good. The effect seems to be working, as the wolf hesitates and looks back at you all (cannot take its action until its own turn though).

Dr. Nimm!

[Dr_Nimm]

"Mr Benson, retrieve Danae from the jaws of the beast!"

"Colleagues, I will release a soporofic vapor that will react with elements in the air. Beware!" I cast hypnotic pattern. DC 21.

[DM7581]

"Mr Benson, retrieve Danae from the jaws of the beast!"

"Colleagues, I will release a soporofic vapor that will react with elements in the air. Beware!" I cast hypnotic pattern. DC 21.

Mr Benson dashes forward. He will have to go "through" 2 other wolves tot get to the lead wolf, who is only about 30 feet away from him.

The 2 wolves snap at him (opportunity attacks), one hits and he takes 7 damage. The wolf nearly knocks him prone as he advances toward the lead wolf.

Your Hypnotic Pattern catches the 4 wolves in the diamond formation (Mr. Benson is not affected). 2 of them seem affected, while 2 others freeze and stand motionless, in a daze.

The wolf holding Danae is not affected (neither is the one at the rear), but Mr. Benson engages to free Danae.

He succeeds! He pulls the creatures jaws open and Danae falls to the ground, prone.

Seeing an opening, Leena has Reli engage this same wolf just as she opens fire with her bow for 16 damage.

Just as Reli is closing on the lead wold, another tackles him from out of the darkness (Readied action), interrupting his path. Reli snaps at this one instead, twice for 30 damage.

Another wolf appears out of the fog and howls out. The wolves begin to retreat, leaving Danae alone, with their tails between their legs.

3 wolves remain. 2 will remain incapacitated for up to a minute. The last is under Xavier's effect and he can dictate how it acts. It would have dropped Danae, but Danae was wrestled free by Mr. Benson. Instead, it "guides" Danae back to Arcivus and ends its turn. When it comes to it looks confused and panicked, as it looks for its pack mates.

That wraps up the combat sequence.

What do you do with the remaining wolves?

[Dr_Nimm]

"Let's free the other two. They don't know any better."

I autopsy one of the dead ones. I want to know how they do their frost breath.

[Xavier Alexis]

If I need to change my command to the wolf I have control over, I will tell the wolf to flee.

"Begone!"

[DM7581]

If I need to change my command to the wolf I have control over, I will tell the wolf to flee.

"Begone!"

The wolves flee into the darkness. Dr. Nimm has Mr. Benson carry along one of the wolf bodies for examination later. The conditions in the wild are too uncivilized for the type of work that he would do here, so he thinks it better to save it for the ship (along with his regenerating troll parts).

Are you all good to move on, rest, anything else?

[Dr_Nimm]

The wolves flee into the darkness. Dr. Nimm has Mr. Benson carry along one of the wolf bodies for examination later. The conditions in the wild are too uncivilized for the type of work that he would do here, so he thinks it better to save it for the ship (along with his regenerating troll parts).

Are you all good to move on, rest, anything else?

Leena, do you spot an area suitable for a short rest?

[Ketiara]

Leena, do you spot an area suitable for a short rest?

I dont think its safe to rest here. And if we do, we need to build a decent fire. This metal suit im wearing, conducts (arcivus tries to sound intelligent but fails) cold like a mofo.

[DM7581]

Leena looks at you all and nods.

Leena: We have been up this trail for a few hours. It would be a god idea to find an area to settle for the night...

She guides you all further up for a little bit and finds what looks like a shallow, abandoned cave, nestled not too far off of the main trail.

Leena: There are no fresh tracks here, so I don't think anything calls this home. We should be sheltered from the harshest of winds here.

You no longer have to yell as loudly to speak, and are still cold, but not freezing. A fire is started and you all settle for a short rest.

--

As you settle, undress, eat and take a quick stretch, Leena sparks up a conversation with Arcivus. Reli remains at the base of the cave and lays on guard, vigilantly.

Leena: Did you think it wise to bring the girl up this way? She seems more of a liability than an asset.

[DM7581]

Leena looks at you all and nods.

Leena: We have been up this trail for a few hours. It would be a god idea to find an area to settle for the night...

She guides you all further up for a little bit and finds what looks like a shallow, abandoned cave, nestled not too far off of the main trail.

Leena: There are no fresh tracks here, so I don't think anything calls this home. We should be sheltered from the harshest of winds here.

You no longer have to yell as loudly to speak, and are still cold, but not freezing. A fire is started and you all settle for a short rest.

--

As you settle, undress, eat and take a quick stretch, Leena sparks up a conversation with Arcivus. Reli remains at the base of the cave and lays on guard, vigilantly.

Leena: Did you think it wise to bring the girl up this way? She seems more of a liability than an asset.

As is her personality, she seems catty as always and may not have warmed up to the new face just yet.

[Ketiara]

Leena looks at you all and nods.

Leena: We have been up this trail for a few hours. It would be a god idea to find an area to settle for the night...

She guides you all further up for a little bit and finds what looks like a shallow, abandoned cave, nestled not too far off of the main trail.

Leena: There are no fresh tracks here, so I don't think anything calls this home. We should be sheltered from the harshest of winds here.

You no longer have to yell as loudly to speak, and are still cold, but not freezing. A fire is started and you all settle for a short rest.

--

As you settle, undress, eat and take a quick stretch, Leena sparks up a conversation with Arcivus. Reli remains at the base of the cave and lays on guard, vigilantly.

Leena: Did you think it wise to bring the girl up this way? She seems more of a liability than an asset.

Arcivus look at Danae, resting far enough away from him to hear the conversation.
"To be honest, your question strikes a nerve for me, as I've been asking the same. I honestly had some expectations that she would learn much faster than she is. In this relative short time we've been together, she has experienced and endured what normal adventurers would experience in an entire lifetime... but she has yet to evolve or learn from this"

Arcivus sigh

"It's as some benevolent sentient being prevents her from gaining the knowledge or ... what do you call it... experience, as every normal being in this world would".

Arcivus look to Danae with a kind loving expression.

"She is tough and determined like few, but I can't keep this up. She deserves better"

[DM7581]

Arcivus look at Danae, resting far enough away from him to hear the conversation.
"To be honest, your question strikes a nerve for me, as I've been asking the same. I honestly had some expectations that she would learn much faster than she is. In this relative short time we've been together, she has experienced and endured what normal adventurers would experience in an entire lifetime... but she has yet to evolve or learn from this"

Arcivus sigh

"It's as some benevolent sentient being prevents her from gaining the knowledge or ... what do you call it... experience, as every normal being in this world would".

Arcivus look to Danae with a kind loving expression.

"She is tough and determined like few, but I can't keep this up. She deserves better"

She kinda suspects that you may be talking about her, but has given you all almost parental respect and dare not pry or question.

--

On her, she has gotten better (improved/leveled-up in-game), but not yet to the extent that she can be a true compliment. She will need more time, but her training is coming along nicely.

--

If no other RP exists we can move on... anyone?

[Dr_Nimm]

Arcivus look at Danae, resting far enough away from him to hear the conversation.
"To be honest, your question strikes a nerve for me, as I've been asking the same. I honestly had some expectations that she would learn much faster than she is. In this relative short time we've been together, she has experienced and endured what normal adventurers would experience in an entire lifetime... but she has yet to evolve or learn from this"

Arcivus sigh

"It's as some benevolent sentient being prevents her from gaining the knowledge or ... what do you call it... experience, as every normal being in this world would".

Arcivus look to Danae with a kind loving expression.

"She is tough and determined like few, but I can't keep this up. She deserves better"

"I already have drawn schematics for a special suit for her. If we can ever sit still for long enough..."

[Ketiara]

"I already have drawn schematics for a special suit for her. If we can ever sit still for long enough..."

"Thats the thing with World ending events... they never seem to wait up for everyone"

[Xavier Alexis]

"Thats the thing with World ending events... they never seem to wait up for everyone"

"Agreed. Time is always against us. We had better get going."

[DM7581]

Sorry for the delay.

You all take a short rest. Calculate HD expenditure, etc.

--

The next day is as harsh as the last, but as you continue to climb the mountain path, more and more of the open sky becomes visible.

Amidst the fog, snow, thunder, lightning, and winds, you catch some glimmers of daylight. That paired with the circling of massive birds. You count at least half a dozen as you continue to climb.


These seem like giant eagles now that you have a closer look. They are considered to have near-human intelligence and are even known to be good natured, but are extremely territorial. They are often kept by cloud and storm giants as pets or scouts, but can also be found nesting in small families as well.

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/thumbnails/9/894/1000/1000/636334286969931904.jpeg

They are prized by many intelligent races, particularly elves, as aerial mounts, similar to pegasi, and are equally difficult to befriend.


They seem to take notice of you, but keep at a safe distance. After a short while, they vanish from sight back into the mountain.

--

Feel free to chime in with RP or whatever throughout the trek.

Eventually you make it up to a large landing. Suitable for giants and dragons alike, before you lies an enormous entrance. Many of the tress that would typically grow here are battered and dead. Leena scouts around a bit and investigates the area...

Leena (yelling over the winds): Not sure how certain you are that a silver may claim this place, but it looks to have been sacked by giants...

Dr. Nimm concurs. It is unlikely that a silver dragon would not upkeep this space, as majestic and impressive as it is. It seems to have been overrun and fallen a bit into ruin for some time. Giants would likely be the culprit as they are the only other known creatures that inhabit this area that would challenge a silver dragon. Maybe a white dragon, but Leena seemed certain of it being giants.

It has been about 4 hours, so we are at mid-day. The entrance is massive--suitable for 2 ancient dragons to walk into, side by side-- and is nestled into the mountainside. You are still nowhere near the top, but the path ends here. You can try to climb on the outside, but such a climb seems exceedingly treacherous and there is no signs of an external entrance from here.

The inside is protected from the harsh winds and snow, but is surprisingly much less cold. A light fog persists, however, even within the entrance. A strange smell (ozone) radiates and the hairs on your arms seem to perk up as you approach.

[Ketiara]

Sorry for the delay.

You all take a short rest. Calculate HD expenditure, etc.

--

The next day is as harsh as the last, but as you continue to climb the mountain path, more and more of the open sky becomes visible.

Amidst the fog, snow, thunder, lightning, and winds, you catch some glimmers of daylight. That paired with the circling of massive birds. You count at least half a dozen as you continue to climb.


These seem like giant eagles now that you have a closer look. They are considered to have near-human intelligence and are even known to be good natured, but are extremely territorial. They are often kept by cloud and storm giants as pets or scouts, but can also be found nesting in small families as well.

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/thumbnails/9/894/1000/1000/636334286969931904.jpeg

They are prized by many intelligent races, particularly elves, as aerial mounts, similar to pegasi, and are equally difficult to befriend.


They seem to take notice of you, but keep at a safe distance. After a short while, they vanish from sight back into the mountain.

--

Feel free to chime in with RP or whatever throughout the trek.

Eventually you make it up to a large landing. Suitable for giants and dragons alike, before you lies an enormous entrance. Many of the tress that would typically grow here are battered and dead. Leena scouts around a bit and investigates the area...

Leena (yelling over the winds): Not sure how certain you are that a silver may claim this place, but it looks to have been sacked by giants...

Dr. Nimm concurs. It is unlikely that a silver dragon would not upkeep this space, as majestic and impressive as it is. It seems to have been overrun and fallen a bit into ruin for some time. Giants would likely be the culprit as they are the only other known creatures that inhabit this area that would challenge a silver dragon. Maybe a white dragon, but Leena seemed certain of it being giants.

It has been about 4 hours, so we are at mid-day. The entrance is massive--suitable for 2 ancient dragons to walk into, side by side-- and is nestled into the mountainside. You are still nowhere near the top, but the path ends here. You can try to climb on the outside, but such a climb seems exceedingly treacherous and there is no signs of an external entrance from here.

The inside is protected from the harsh winds and snow, but is surprisingly much less cold. A light fog persists, however, even within the entrance. A strange smell (ozone) radiates and the hairs on your arms seem to perk up as you approach.

Arcivus remembers last time he was fried by lightning... the smell (other than burned flesh) and the sensation of electrified air.

"watch out, lightning may occur"

[Dr_Nimm]

"Leena, do you think you can persuade those eagles to reveal an alternate entrance?"

[Dr_Nimm]

Also I Heal 36 hp from a short rest using 10hd and repair Mr Benson (not sure how that works).

[Ketiara]

Sorry for the delay.

You all take a short rest. Calculate HD expenditure, etc.

--

The next day is as harsh as the last, but as you continue to climb the mountain path, more and more of the open sky becomes visible.

Amidst the fog, snow, thunder, lightning, and winds, you catch some glimmers of daylight. That paired with the circling of massive birds. You count at least half a dozen as you continue to climb.


These seem like giant eagles now that you have a closer look. They are considered to have near-human intelligence and are even known to be good natured, but are extremely territorial. They are often kept by cloud and storm giants as pets or scouts, but can also be found nesting in small families as well.

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/thumbnails/9/894/1000/1000/636334286969931904.jpeg

They are prized by many intelligent races, particularly elves, as aerial mounts, similar to pegasi, and are equally difficult to befriend.


They seem to take notice of you, but keep at a safe distance. After a short while, they vanish from sight back into the mountain.

--

Feel free to chime in with RP or whatever throughout the trek.

Eventually you make it up to a large landing. Suitable for giants and dragons alike, before you lies an enormous entrance. Many of the tress that would typically grow here are battered and dead. Leena scouts around a bit and investigates the area...

Leena (yelling over the winds): Not sure how certain you are that a silver may claim this place, but it looks to have been sacked by giants...

Dr. Nimm concurs. It is unlikely that a silver dragon would not upkeep this space, as majestic and impressive as it is. It seems to have been overrun and fallen a bit into ruin for some time. Giants would likely be the culprit as they are the only other known creatures that inhabit this area that would challenge a silver dragon. Maybe a white dragon, but Leena seemed certain of it being giants.

It has been about 4 hours, so we are at mid-day. The entrance is massive--suitable for 2 ancient dragons to walk into, side by side-- and is nestled into the mountainside. You are still nowhere near the top, but the path ends here. You can try to climb on the outside, but such a climb seems exceedingly treacherous and there is no signs of an external entrance from here.

The inside is protected from the harsh winds and snow, but is surprisingly much less cold. A light fog persists, however, even within the entrance. A strange smell (ozone) radiates and the hairs on your arms seem to perk up as you approach.

Arcivus rest 106hp using 10HD.

My dear Dr. Could you please protect my vassal Danae. Any protection spell or temporary hp you can give, will be appreciated.
Arcivus cast Death ward on her.

[DM7581]

Arcivus remembers last time he was fried by lightning... the smell (other than burned flesh) and the sensation of electrified air.

"watch out, lightning may occur"

Leena looks at you with an almost sarcastic tone, if such a thing is possible.

Leena: You don't say...

Then looks to Dr. Nimm and Xavier, shaking her head.


"Leena, do you think you can persuade those eagles to reveal an alternate entrance?"

Leena: I would love to try... but you should know as well as I do that these things are highly intelligent. They probably serve as a scout or guardian for whoever is living here. Either that, or they are simply nesting. They are typically good natured, but we should be ready for anything.


Also I Heal 36 hp from a short rest using 10hd and repair Mr Benson (not sure how that works).

We will treat his short rest as any other, but it entails you cleaning/repairing him. Expend HD as normal.


Arcivus rest 106hp using 10HD.

My dear Dr. Could you please protect my vassal Danae. Any protection spell or temporary hp you can give, will be appreciated.
Arcivus cast Death ward on her.

Leena: That's the smartest thing I think I've heard you say this entire trip, oh righteous one. No offense, little one.

Danae: Hey, who are you calling little?

"Friendly" banter, no more.

--

You all slowly enter the entrance. A large landing stands before you. Massive sconces, suitable to hold enormous torches line the wall. The landing leads in one direction: up, with a massive, stone staircase, which looks relatively newly constructed compared to some of the other elements in the cave.

While not as cold as outside, there is still a strong breeze coming from within. While not as loud as the outside either, the space allows for the swirling winds to echo. No need to shout to hear one another, but any perception checks relying on sound are still at disadvantage. The fog here as settled and is only about waist deep, and not as thick. More of a light mist. The crackling on thunder and lightning outside can still be heard, and somehow sounds louder due to the acoustics of the place.

I will assume typical marching order. Leena "lets" Arcivus take point, and insists on covering the rear with Reli. Mr. Benson is right behind Arcivus, off to the right, with Dr. Nimm just behind. Xavier is behind Arcivus, to Nimm's left. Danae, smack in the middle between everyone.

--

As you ascend (and it takes a while, since each step requires a bit of a climb, Xavier is probably hovering over everyone, though, while Dr. Nimm utilizes Mr. Benson), you eventually reach a large room. To large to see how big it is due to lack of light and the light mist obscuring the distance.

There should be a smell here, but the cold has taken care of that, for no less than 3 medium-large dragon carcasses can be seen scattered about. They seem to have been long dead and are either completely skeletal or close to it.

Upon closer inspection, you make them out to be silver dragons. The bodies are old. While a few bones can be poached here or there, the materials are not pure enough to be used for his Xavier experiment.

They look like they were killed in battle, bludgeoned more specifically.

Leena: Giants...

What do you all say or do?

[Ketiara]

Leena looks at you with an almost sarcastic tone, if such a thing is possible.

Leena: You don't say...

Then looks to Dr. Nimm and Xavier, shaking her head.



Leena: I would love to try... but you should know as well as I do that these things are highly intelligent. They probably serve as a scout or guardian for whoever is living here. Either that, or they are simply nesting. They are typically good natured, but we should be ready for anything.



We will treat his short rest as any other, but it entails you cleaning/repairing him. Expend HD as normal.



Leena: That's the smartest thing I think I've heard you say this entire trip, oh righteous one. No offense, little one.

Danae: Hey, who are you calling little?

"Friendly" banter, no more.

--

You all slowly enter the entrance. A large landing stands before you. Massive sconces, suitable to hold enormous torches line the wall. The landing leads in one direction: up, with a massive, stone staircase, which looks relatively newly constructed compared to some of the other elements in the cave.

While not as cold as outside, there is still a strong breeze coming from within. While not as loud as the outside either, the space allows for the swirling winds to echo. No need to shout to hear one another, but any perception checks relying on sound are still at disadvantage. The fog here as settled and is only about waist deep, and not as thick. More of a light mist. The crackling on thunder and lightning outside can still be heard, and somehow sounds louder due to the acoustics of the place.

I will assume typical marching order. Leena "lets" Arcivus take point, and insists on covering the rear with Reli. Mr. Benson is right behind Arcivus, off to the right, with Dr. Nimm just behind. Xavier is behind Arcivus, to Nimm's left. Danae, smack in the middle between everyone.

--

As you ascend (and it takes a while, since each step requires a bit of a climb, Xavier is probably hovering over everyone, though, while Dr. Nimm utilizes Mr. Benson), you eventually reach a large room. To large to see how big it is due to lack of light and the light mist obscuring the distance.

There should be a smell here, but the cold has taken care of that, for no less than 3 medium-large dragon carcasses can be seen scattered about. They seem to have been long dead and are either completely skeletal or close to it.

Upon closer inspection, you make them out to be silver dragons. The bodies are old. While a few bones can be poached here or there, the materials are not pure enough to be used for his Xavier experiment.

They look like they were killed in battle, bludgeoned more specifically.

Leena: Giants...

What do you all say or do?

"They are not the size I would have imagined. The dragon we came looking for should have been larger, right?"
Arcivus start looking around the cave, secret entrances and such.

[Dr_Nimm]

"I will attempt to fortify Danae. My alchemical decoctions have never been tested on children, their bodies may not withstand the changes. I suppose I can counteract any bad reaction. Probably.

Drink up!"

I pass Danae two vials and "cast":

Death Ward on Danae

Aid at level 4 to Danae, myself, and Arcivus.

In addition :

Aid at level 2 to Xavier, Leena, Reli.

Enhance ability : dexterity to myself (snorts stimulant powders).

"This combination of herbs used by local shamans and my proprietary chemicals target the occipital lobe of my brain, the visual cortex." (cast True Sight)

Chased with : Half a pint of whiskey, to myself.

Investigation 29. "Giants perhaps, but what else?"

[DM7581]

"They are not the size I would have imagined. The dragon we came looking for should have been larger, right?"
Arcivus start looking around the cave, secret entrances and such.

Yes, especially a mountain of this size. Definitely suitable for an ancient dragon (or a band of giants...). A weaker one would not be able to hold it against giants.


"I will attempt to fortify Danae. My alchemical decoctions have never been tested on children, their bodies may not withstand the changes. I suppose I can counteract any bad reaction. Probably.

Drink up!"

I pass Danae two vials and "cast":

Death Ward on Danae

Aid at level 4 to Danae, myself, and Arcivus.

In addition :

Aid at level 2 to Xavier, Leena, Reli.

Enhance ability : dexterity to myself (snorts stimulant powders).

"This combination of herbs used by local shamans and my proprietary chemicals target the occipital lobe of my brain, the visual cortex." (cast True Sight)

Chased with : Half a pint of whiskey, to myself.

Investigation 29. "Giants perhaps, but what else?"

Arcivus already burned a Death Ward on Danae, so save the slot or use a different spell.

29! Very good.

The dragons were killed in combat. Their bodies were mostly stripped (some teeth, most scales, horns, etc.) and left to rot. Hard to rot in such cold though. The room is large and as you look around, notice a few chambers. All are circular, if not perfectly round, aside from any connecting hallways, which are all dug out perfectly.

The first room that catches your attention was a once great library and sitting room. All the books here have been destroyed and ruined. There are broken pieces of a few game sets, human-sized furniture, and general knick-knacks here and there. You do not find anything worthwhile.

There is an entrance that looked to have been a secret door, but was battered down and destroyed. It was likely a treasure room that has been long plundered. Not a single coin remains, but it is in the precise spot that a dragon might keep it, with a large, but simple sleeping chamber connecting it. The chamber has old, destroyed furniture (human-sized bed, dresser, vanity, etc.) as well as a large enough space for a massive dragon to coil and sleep.

There looks to have been a common area that leads to a sectioned-off dining area, guest sleeping quarters, and kitchen. All in ruin, just like the rest of the place.

Finally, there is what looks like a collapsed escape tunnel. It slopes upward and would have been for a strategic retreat. What you pick up here is quite a breeze coming through some of the rocks. By the sound of the wind as it whistles through here,along with a few booms of lightning and thunder, you may just be able to clear a path up. The low sound of stomping can also be heard as you near this area as a few of the rocks and stones rattle.

[Dr_Nimm]

Yes, especially a mountain of this size. Definitely suitable for an ancient dragon (or a band of giants...). A weaker one would not be able to hold it against giants.



Arcivus already burned a Death Ward on Danae, so save the slot or use a different spell.

29! Very good.

The dragons were killed in combat. Their bodies were mostly stripped (some teeth, most scales, horns, etc.) and left to rot. Hard to rot in such cold though. The room is large and as you look around, notice a few chambers. All are circular, if not perfectly round, aside from any connecting hallways, which are all dug out perfectly.

The first room that catches your attention was a once great library and sitting room. All the books here have been destroyed and ruined. There are broken pieces of a few game sets, human-sized furniture, and general knick-knacks here and there. You do not find anything worthwhile.

There is an entrance that looked to have been a secret door, but was battered down and destroyed. It was likely a treasure room that has been long plundered. Not a single coin remains, but it is in the precise spot that a dragon might keep it, with a large, but simple sleeping chamber connecting it. The chamber has old, destroyed furniture (human-sized bed, dresser, vanity, etc.) as well as a large enough space for a massive dragon to coil and sleep.

There looks to have been a common area that leads to a sectioned-off dining area, guest sleeping quarters, and kitchen. All in ruin, just like the rest of the place.

Finally, there is what looks like a collapsed escape tunnel. It slopes upward and would have been for a strategic retreat. What you pick up here is quite a breeze coming through some of the rocks. By the sound of the wind as it whistles through here,along with a few booms of lightning and thunder, you may just be able to clear a path up. The low sound of stomping can also be heard as you near this area as a few of the rocks and stones rattle.

Can I discern anything about the style of architecture? "This suggests a dragon lair, but dragons don't have hands. Who made this place? Dwarves?"

[Ketiara]

Can I discern anything about the style of architecture? "This suggests a dragon lair, but dragons don't have hands. Who made this place? Dwarves?"

My dear Dr. You should have held back on the alcohol chaser. Did you forget that dragons often take the shape of human. Even I know that. But I agree that its not the dragon that has made this."
"my former master Rurik often spoke of dwarven architecture, actually he wouldn't shut up about it, when we weren't training"

"And from what he has taught me this clearly Is/isnt dwarven made." (ill let DM decide if its dwarven made)

Caught up in his own musings Arcivus hardly notice the thunder and lightning or anything else

[Dr_Nimm]

My dear Dr. You should have held back on the alcohol chaser. Did you forget that dragons often take the shape of human. Even I know that. But I agree that its not the dragon that has made this."
"my former master Rurik often spoke of dwarven architecture, actually he wouldn't shut up about it, when we weren't training"

"And from what he has taught me this clearly Is/isnt dwarven made." (ill let DM decide if its dwarven made)

Caught up in his own musings Arcivus hardly notice the thunder and lightning or anything else

Dr. Nimm looks at Arcivus with Supreme Condescension.

" Dragons... Don't... Do... Manual.... Labor. "

[Ketiara]

Dr. Nimm looks at Arcivus with Supreme Condescension.

" Dragons... Don't... Do... Manual.... Labor. "

"Then be more specific about what you mean my dear friend"

Arcivus turn and start walking away

"I'm not nearly smart enough to understand intelligent ramblings... *cough*or drunk *cough*"

[Dr_Nimm]

(deception 9)

"Beware! I have an- I possess - a rare potion that- ah- can... that will reduce your penis. PERMANENTLY!"

"Mind your tone. Or it may accidentally fall into your coffee. Hmph!"

Dr. Nimm draws in his robe with a flourish and saunters off.

[Ketiara]

(deception 9)

"Beware! I have an- I possess - a rare potion that- ah- can... that will reduce your penis. PERMANENTLY!"

"Mind your tone. Or it may accidentally fall into your coffee. Hmph!"

Dr. Nimm draws in his robe with a flourish and saunters off.

It could do with a bit of shrinking... its weight is taking its toll on my back... even with the help of my giant strength belt, not to mention the extra cost of custom fitting my crotch plate... ;)

[DM7581]

Can I discern anything about the style of architecture? "This suggests a dragon lair, but dragons don't have hands. Who made this place? Dwarves?"

Indeed. Most dragons, especially good ones would have had human allies. The lair is old and worn, but what remains is draconic in design, with a splash of dwarvish and even elvish touches. Not too over the top, but enough to take notice.


My dear Dr. You should have held back on the alcohol chaser. Did you forget that dragons often take the shape of human. Even I know that. But I agree that its not the dragon that has made this."
"my former master Rurik often spoke of dwarven architecture, actually he wouldn't shut up about it, when we weren't training"

"And from what he has taught me this clearly Is/isnt dwarven made." (ill let DM decide if its dwarven made)

Caught up in his own musings Arcivus hardly notice the thunder and lightning or anything else

You are correct to a degree. You notice dwarven influence (your previous kingdom was a close ally to a dwarven city), but miss specific cues on how it is seamlessly blended with other styles.


Dr. Nimm looks at Arcivus with Supreme Condescension.

" Dragons... Don't... Do... Manual.... Labor. "

Not typically. As a matter of fact, he may have hired/invited friends to do it for him and only assisted sparingly with heavy lifting and such.


"Then be more specific about what you mean my dear friend"

Arcivus turn and start walking away

"I'm not nearly smart enough to understand intelligent ramblings... *cough*or drunk *cough*"

Yeah, Arcivus is not privy to the nuances of draconic behavior, especially as the older they get the more they may be revered.

--

Anyway, details aside, there is not much left here. You can take a stone, piece of wall, or whatever as a memoir, or move on.

[Ketiara]

Indeed. Most dragons, especially good ones would have had human allies. The lair is old and worn, but what remains is draconic in design, with a splash of dwarvish and even elvish touches. Not too over the top, but enough to take notice.



You are correct to a degree. You notice dwarven influence (your previous kingdom was a close ally to a dwarven city), but miss specific cues on how it is seamlessly blended with other styles.



Not typically. As a matter of fact, he may have hired/invited friends to do it for him and only assisted sparingly with heavy lifting and such.



Yeah, Arcivus is not privy to the nuances of draconic behavior, especially as the older they get the more they may be revered.

--

Anyway, details aside, there is not much left here. You can take a stone, piece of wall, or whatever as a memoir, or move on.

If that is customary, ill take some, as a memory of the good ancient dragon that lived here.
Are there information about this particular dragon? Some lore or something?

[DM7581]

If that is customary, ill take some, as a memory of the good ancient dragon that lived here.
Are there information about this particular dragon? Some lore or something?

The place seems very dated. Any interaction with humanoid races was likely a few decades ago. The giants may have taken over with in the last few years.

As far as this particular dragon, much of what would have been recorded is lost.

[Dr_Nimm]

I'll throw in a history, if nothing else to take advantage of my feat.

31

[Xavier Alexis]

"I could attempt to locate the dragon that is the master of this lair using the power of my mind. However, it would require an hour of my concentration. Can we spare the time?"

If the group agrees, I activate Nomadic Mind (Find Creature) and attempt to locate the dragon.

[Dr_Nimm]

"I could attempt to locate the dragon that is the master of this lair using the power of my mind. However, it would require an hour of my concentration. Can we spare the time?"

If the group agrees, I activate Nomadic Mind (Find Creature) and attempt to locate the dragon.

If that's the case I deploy SCAT alarm

[Ketiara]

"I could attempt to locate the dragon that is the master of this lair using the power of my mind. However, it would require an hour of my concentration. Can we spare the time?"

If the group agrees, I activate Nomadic Mind (Find Creature) and attempt to locate the dragon.

Sure lets do it.

[DM7581]

I'll throw in a history, if nothing else to take advantage of my feat.

31

Way back when, when you first acquired the Tome from Ingron (remember him? The icy giant who lived in these reagions, actually off to the SE of here, but close enough), you discussed a great many things. Giants and dragons were one of them.

Your discussion was mostly of the undead, but talk of giants and dragons in the region would have come up. The whites where typically limited to the southern area, closer to civilization, ironically, while the silvers dominated the norther range, where you all are now.

That was then. Dragons have been seen less and less and are either dying out, or in exile (maybe waiting for this whole cataclysmic gods dying business to blow over). In this case, it looks like they (or it) was hunted and killed, if not run off.

The silver here was a bit of a hermit. It may have had some allies in years past, but the last few years of its life where in solitude. All you can gather, as a rational thinker, is that when supernatural events occur (or fail to occur), it panics the masses. This panic would include giants and their kin, as they have a rich history of worshiping their gods, and are an ancient race.

Warring with dragons is nothing new, as giants and dragons have been enemies as long as they have both existed, so this could be nothing out of the ordinary as well. Defeating an ancient silver would take some effort, which is more intriguing.


"I could attempt to locate the dragon that is the master of this lair using the power of my mind. However, it would require an hour of my concentration. Can we spare the time?"

If the group agrees, I activate Nomadic Mind (Find Creature) and attempt to locate the dragon.

Sure. Dr. Nimm has been able to reveal enough information about this dragon in specific to be able to focus on it.


If that's the case I deploy SCAT alarm


Sure lets do it.

You all sit around as Xavier calmly focuses. He sits, kneeling, with his eyes closed as he breathes and focuses on the dragon.

Leena sits and sharpens her weapons. Arcivus and Danae engage in some light sparring. Dr. Nimm instinctively shushes anyone who gets too loud, as he is most likely to appreciate the focus needed when concentrating on a task.

After some time, SCAT is patrolling around. Reli takes notice and follows it, sniffing it here and there. Maybe gives it a little nudge on its nose. Leena sees this and calls him away before Dr. Nimm snaps about wolf drool, hair, or what have you.

At one point, both SCAT and Reli are amidst the collapsed tunnel, and are climbing and investigating around it. Leena and Dr. Nimm both look up simultaneously, if just for a moment.

Reli glances upward, letting out a low growl while SCAT's sensors detect some sort of motion, about 20 feet up. It quickly subsides and Reli returns to Leena, as she starts to ready her gear.

Leena: It looks like we may have company...


I will allow him to move around, while under the effects of the Alarm spell. This would notify you (mentally or audibly) of any intruders that he may come across instead of fixing it on a door, window, or other set location. For this application, and in keeping quiet for Xavier, I will say that he was set to a mental alarm... which you could rationalize as relaying a finely tuned pitch that is only audible by you.


As this resolve, Xavier comes out of his trance.


The ability lets you pinpoint the creature between 1 and 3 miles on a side. Since you had little information on this other than a history lesson, I will err on the greater of that: 3 miles (9 mile area). Coincidentally, the 3 mile area that you detect is right where you all are, almost exactly centered on it.

It is very much possible that the dragon is still alive and nearby, or even still within the lair.


--

By the way, can you tell I just found out about this multi-quote feature and love it?

[Dr_Nimm]

I send Rupert to sneak out of that entrance and see through his eyes. I based him on a fox, not sure what his stealth is at but I rolled a 7.

[Ketiara]

Leena: It looks like we may have company...



Arcivus and Danae stop their sparring and position themselfs. Arcivus towards the "company" with Danae safely behind

[DM7581]

Arcivus and Danae stop their sparring and position themselfs. Arcivus towards the "company" with Danae safely behind

Company as someone or something is nearby. You can't see anything yet.

We can use a Weasel's stats and call it even for a small fox. They cannot attack and stats are probably very similar.

He is small enough to crawl through small openings and such, and makes his way through the collapsed rubble, which is only about 15 feet up.

He remains in the rubble, as to not be seen. You are able to see what looks like a massive dragon. Hard to tell at his angle, but it could definitely be a silver. It lies motionless on the floor. Could be sleeping. Could be dead. There is a significant mist on the floor further foiling his sight.

Also, there is less cover from the winds and elements here, as there is a large opening, almost like that of a volcano from the inside in this new "room." Looking up, there is a strange, swirling vortex, hanging lower than the clouds above it, but which seems to be the source of all that thunder and lightning that you have been hearing. Or at least most of it.

[Xavier Alexis]

"There is a good chance the dragon we seek is alive and within 3 miles of us. That is all I was able to ascertain with my abilities."

[Dr_Nimm]

"There is a good chance the dragon we seek is alive and within 3 miles of us. That is all I was able to ascertain with my abilities."

"Thank you. That was ahh... Highly useful."

[DM7581]

"Thank you. That was ahh... Highly useful."

You actually are getting more information out of Rupert than Xavier, but Xavier did confirm that this is the same silver dragon that you are all discussing, so that puts that to rest.

What is the next move?

[Ketiara]

You actually are getting more information out of Rupert than Xavier, but Xavier did confirm that this is the same silver dragon that you are all discussing, so that puts that to rest.

What is the next move?

"Can we get into the dragons lair, magically or ortherwise?"

[Dr_Nimm]

"Rupert, search stealthily for alternate entrances." (Or I use my familiar feature to look around some more.)

If we're facing a dragon we need to know the layout.

Arvivus, can you detect malevolence coming from this dragon?

[Ketiara]

"Rupert, search stealthily for alternate entrances." (Or I use my familiar feature to look around some more.)

If we're facing a dragon we need to know the layout.

Arvivus, can you detect malevolence coming from this dragon?

A Dragon is part if the natural world. Evil or good, makes no difference... can't sense that. if its celestial or infernal on the other hand, then I can.

[Dr_Nimm]

A Dragon is part if the natural world. Evil or good, makes no difference... can't sense that. if its celestial or infernal on the other hand, then I can.

"You and Xavier are proving to be quite useless at this time. Rupert Pompeius Nimm clearly outshines you all, but then again he is flawless."

"Leena. I suppose you're rather deft at sneaking around and such. What say you to scouting out the lair?"

[DM7581]

"You and Xavier are proving to be quite useless at this time. Rupert Pompeius Nimm clearly outshines you all, but then again he is flawless."

"Leena. I suppose you're rather deft at sneaking around and such. What say you to scouting out the lair?"

After prodding about here and there, it looks like you can fashion a small tunnel to climb through without collapsing the rest of the rubble. Many of the rocks and boulders are larger, and the space seems sized for a massive dragon. So long as you do not make any silly mistakes, you should be good.

Let's get an Int (survival) check so you can figure out the best course to make.

Next, a Con (athletics) to make sure you are holding up the correct rocks without shifting them to quickly and collapsing them.

Finally Wis (survival) to make sure that the tunnel is safe enough to crawl through without it collapsing on you.

You can divvy up who makes which check however you see fit. If someone else has the appropriate skill trained, they can offer the Help action to assist and give advantage (point things out that you may not see, etc.).

[Dr_Nimm]

After prodding about here and there, it looks like you can fashion a small tunnel to climb through without collapsing the rest of the rubble. Many of the rocks and boulders are larger, and the space seems sized for a massive dragon. So long as you do not make any silly mistakes, you should be good.

Let's get an Int (survival) check so you can figure out the best course to make.

Next, a Con (athletics) to make sure you are holding up the correct rocks without shifting them to quickly and collapsing them.

Finally Wis (survival) to make sure that the tunnel is safe enough to crawl through without it collapsing on you.

You can divvy up who makes which check however you see fit. If someone else has the appropriate skill trained, they can offer the Help action to assist and give advantage (point things out that you may not see, etc.).

Int survival 23

I use historian to give + 6 to everyone else's check

"I recall that the geological formations here are composed of both hard and soft rocks. Look for _____ type of rocks for the handhold."

"I read somewhere that these types of tunnels can collapse easily. You have to crawl in just such a way..."

[Ketiara]

Int survival 23

I use historian to give + 6 to everyone else's check

"I recall that the geological formations here are composed of both hard and soft rocks. Look for _____ type of rocks for the handhold."

"I read somewhere that these types of tunnels can collapse easily. You have to crawl in just such a way..."

Arcivus move into the tunnel guided by Nimm, and supports the tunnel and overlaying stones all the while helping with the clearing of the path.

CON + athletics (a wierd combo, but whatever :)) = 17 + 10 (+6 from historian) = 33
or
STR + athletics (if it was a mistake to do CON) = 17 + 14 (+6 from historian) = 37

[DM7581]

Arcivus move into the tunnel guided by Nimm, and supports the tunnel and overlaying stones all the while helping with the clearing of the path.

CON + athletics (a wierd combo, but whatever :)) = 17 + 10 (+6 from historian) = 33
or
STR + athletics (if it was a mistake to do CON) = 17 + 14 (+6 from historian) = 37

No, I wanted Con because even though Str is required, it is more the amount of time needed and the endurance required to hold things up that will dictate failure or success.

Anyway, no poor rolls here, so we move on.

You are all able to fashion a big enough space for medium and smaller creatures. Mr. Benson may have to stay behind. Leena thinks Reli should stay with him, just i case.

If you want to leave Danae and/or Rupert behind, let me know.

You climb through the small tunnel with relative ease. As you emerge, slowly, you are able to take advantage of some natural cover, both by a thick mist that covers the first 3-4 feet of the floor, as well as other rocks and natural debris.

The "room" you are in is more of a circular cavity at the very top of the mountain, open at the top. You appear to have emerged at the SW corner of the room. The top stretches about 200 feet or so up, and it is here that you all see the swirling vortex of lightning and thunder that seems to be the center of this great, on going lightning storm. You can see about 3 giant eagles circling here. They seem to dip in low every now and again, but do not seem to see you... yet. The noise levels pick back up here, but the winds are more mild. It is still very cold, but somehow, not nearly as cold as when you were all outside.

Not far from you, toward the center, a large dragon lies motionless. It seems to be either dead or sleeping, but it is hard to tell from where you are given the mist. Beyond that, the hazy image of about 6 large creatures, which look like giants of various sizes, can be seen in the distance.

Arcivus is at point, with everyone else closely behind. Leena is usually good to be at the rear or just behind Arcivus (as needed). Let me know what you do, including marching order/formation.

[Ketiara]

No, I wanted Con because even though Str is required, it is more the amount of time needed and the endurance required to hold things up that will dictate failure or success.

Anyway, no poor rolls here, so we move on.

You are all able to fashion a big enough space for medium and smaller creatures. Mr. Benson may have to stay behind. Leena thinks Reli should stay with him, just i case.

If you want to leave Danae and/or Rupert behind, let me know.

You climb through the small tunnel with relative ease. As you emerge, slowly, you are able to take advantage of some natural cover, both by a thick mist that covers the first 3-4 feet of the floor, as well as other rocks and natural debris.

The "room" you are in is more of a circular cavity at the very top of the mountain, open at the top. You appear to have emerged at the SW corner of the room. The top stretches about 200 feet or so up, and it is here that you all see the swirling vortex of lightning and thunder that seems to be the center of this great, on going lightning storm. You can see about 3 giant eagles circling here. They seem to dip in low every now and again, but do not seem to see you... yet. The noise levels pick back up here, but the winds are more mild. It is still very cold, but somehow, not nearly as cold as when you were all outside.

Not far from you, toward the center, a large dragon lies motionless. It seems to be either dead or sleeping, but it is hard to tell from where you are given the mist. Beyond that, the hazy image of about 6 large creatures, which look like giants of various sizes, can be seen in the distance.

Arcivus is at point, with everyone else closely behind. Leena is usually good to be at the rear or just behind Arcivus (as needed). Let me know what you do, including marching order/formation.

Arcivus reach out with his senses to detect good or evil within 60 ft. And slowly he move toward the dragon. Sword at his side, in a non threatening manner.

When you say large, its not the ancient dragon we are looking for?

[Dr_Nimm]

I follow Archie.

[DM7581]

Arcivus reach out with his senses to detect good or evil within 60 ft. And slowly he move toward the dragon. Sword at his side, in a non threatening manner.

When you say large, its not the ancient dragon we are looking for?

Yes, this is a very large dragon, gargantuan in size and has been confirmed by both Xavier and Nimm to be the same dragon that calls this place its lair.


I follow Archie.

You all approach slowly and cautious until you are right up on the creature. It does not seem to notice you, and upon further inspection, you find that it is not sleeping at all, but is dead. And for some time by the looks of it.

I assume that Dr. Nimm would want to use the body for parts. While the scales and such can be fashioned into a weapon given enough time and resources, the body itself is not fresh enough to use any of its components for Xavier's new body that you are growing. Not sure what the consensus is on butchering it though, so I leave that up to you all. Leena probably wouldn't care either way.

You are able to use its body as cover from the giants for the most part, BUT the circling eagles seem to have spotted you as you made your approach to the dragon.

They let out a very loud SHRIEK as the dive down toward you. It is heard echoing down and around the area. You imagine that this has also gotten the attention of the giants, but it is hard to see them from your vantage point (behind the dragon) and the mist.

I guess this calls for initiative. No surprise. What was the verdict on Danae?

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30
Xavier: 16
Nimm: 14
Eagles: 10
Arcivus: 5

--

Leena: Well, here we go... and I kinda like these things...

Leena looses 2 arrows and easily drops one of the eagles. She is very accurate, but keep in mind that all ranged attacks are at disadvantage due to the conditions. They are about 100 feet away right now, and are about 40 feet from each other.

Xavier and Nimm, you go!

[Xavier Alexis]

I thought the eagles are good-aligned.

If so, I will attempt to telepathically communicate with them before Leena fires her arrows.

"Leena, hold your fire!"

I then attempt to telepathically communicate with the eagles.

"Wait! We mean you no harm. We have come here because we sought this dragon's help in our fight against a great evil."

[Ketiara]

I thought the eagles are good-aligned.

If so, I will attempt to telepathically communicate with them before Leena fires her arrows.

"Leena, hold your fire!"

I then attempt to telepathically communicate with the eagles.

"Wait! We mean you no harm. We have come here because we sought this dragon's help in our fight against a great evil."

Danae still follow me, and I keep her under my protection. She is behind med and in front of Nimm.

[DM7581]

I thought the eagles are good-aligned.

If so, I will attempt to telepathically communicate with them before Leena fires her arrows.

"Leena, hold your fire!"

I then attempt to telepathically communicate with the eagles.

"Wait! We mean you no harm. We have come here because we sought this dragon's help in our fight against a great evil."

Unless the telepathy takes an action, it is free. You reach out to them, but get nothing back in return.

Intruders! Kill them!

Something must be off on these things, but they are notoriously territorial and sometimes bad tempered.


I imagine this is an easy check, but strange that they attack you and not the other giants, which are more closely in view. They have be guards for the giants, but they are typically associated with cloud or storm giants.


That being said, they seem unresponsive and you can still take an action.


Danae still follow me, and I keep her under my protection. She is behind med and in front of Nimm.

Got it.

[Xavier Alexis]

"So be it."

I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8 (28) psychic damage on the next eagle that attacks. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

[Dr_Nimm]

Where are the giants?

[DM7581]

"So be it."

I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8 (28) psychic damage on the next eagle that attacks. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

Another bird drops with a twisting squeal. Just one left.


Where are the giants?

You can see the giants a few hundred feet away, barely though, through the mist. They do notice the ruckus and seem to be looking and heading over toward your direction.

You go!

[Dr_Nimm]

I cast firebolt and toss a bomb at the eagle as a bonus action.

23 hit 23 damage fire
22 hit 25 damage fire

[DM7581]

I cast firebolt and toss a bomb at the eagle as a bonus action.

23 hit 23 damage fire
22 hit 25 damage fire

The bomb hits the eagle and consumes it in flames. It drops, practically cooked, not far from you.

You can hear and see about half a dozen giants of various sized coming your way, so you have time to act. They seem to have an idea of where you are, but you do have the advantage of being short in the mist, plus you have a large dragon corpse that you can use to hide behind.

You estimate about 2 rounds before the close within 100 feet and pose any sort of threat.

However, you have an eerie feeling about you as the swirling vortex of the storm looms overhead, almost as if you are being watched. Arcivus can take his action before I proceed.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30
Xavier: 16
Nimm: 14
Arcivus: 5

[Ketiara]

The bomb hits the eagle and consumes it in flames. It drops, practically cooked, not far from you.

You can hear and see about half a dozen giants of various sized coming your way, so you have time to act. They seem to have an idea of where you are, but you do have the advantage of being short in the mist, plus you have a large dragon corpse that you can use to hide behind.

You estimate about 2 rounds before the close within 100 feet and pose any sort of threat.

However, you have an eerie feeling about you as the swirling vortex of the storm looms overhead, almost as if you are being watched. Arcivus can take his action before I proceed.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30
Xavier: 16
Nimm: 14
Arcivus: 5

Arcivus look back to the others. (he is in a front position).
"Danae, get back a bit, untill we figure out what this is, and then come and assist me on my que"

To the others:

"Do we stay and fight, or do we walk away before the giants reach us? I have materials for a resurrection, I hate for a majestic creature like this do have perished this way. Perhaps theres still enough divine energy in me for a resurrection"

If we take on the fight, ill get in position and ready an attack for the first giant to get within reach or me.

[DM7581]

Arcivus look back to the others. (he is in a front position).
"Danae, get back a bit, untill we figure out what this is, and then come and assist me on my que"

To the others:

"Do we stay and fight, or do we walk away before the giants reach us? I have materials for a resurrection, I hate for a majestic creature like this do have perished this way. Perhaps theres still enough divine energy in me for a resurrection"

If we take on the fight, ill get in position and ready an attack for the first giant to get within reach or me.

Leena holds (Readies) her attack action on the rest of you.

Leena: Call it now... I'm more than happy to end these creatures, but if you want to run, we run. Not sure how long it might take to raise this dragon, but I suspect that dragging the body is not an option...

The giants approach hastily, as mumbles can be heard among them. They are now just under 200 feet from you and can see the composition of the group: 3 hill giants, a troll, 2 frost giants, and 1 cloud giant. 7 total.

Leena has her action readied. Discuss or take an action (or both).

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30
Giants: 20
Xavier: 16
Nimm: 14
Arcivus: 5

[Ketiara]

Leena holds (Readies) her attack action on the rest of you.

Leena: Call it now... I'm more than happy to end these creatures, but if you want to run, we run. Not sure how long it might take to raise this dragon, but I suspect that dragging the body is not an option...

The giants approach hastily, as mumbles can be heard among them. They are now just under 200 feet from you and can see the composition of the group: 3 hill giants, a troll, 2 frost giants, and 1 cloud giant. 7 total.

Leena has her action readied. Discuss or take an action (or both).

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30
Giants: 20
Xavier: 16
Nimm: 14
Arcivus: 5

Leena by all means, give them hell! (Arcivus has his action readied as well)

readied action:
1) 8+16 = 24, (1d8)5+12+(1d8)6 = 23

[Xavier Alexis]

"We can engage them in conversation. I can teleport us away if we need a quick escape."

[DM7581]

Leena by all means, give them hell! (Arcivus has his action readied as well)

readied action:
1) 8+16 = 24, (1d8)5+12+(1d8)6 = 23

Remember that she has a long ranged attack. Your melee attack (or even a thrown range attack) will have to wait at least another round for them to close in, unless you want to advance and meet them half way. You can re-do your action or ready another action.

Leena does not hesitate on Arcivus' words, however...

Even at the range and with the mist, Leena's arrow flies true, striking one of the smaller (hill) giants for 25 damage.


"We can engage them in conversation. I can teleport us away if we need a quick escape."

So much for talking.

Still waiting on Xavier and Nimm's actions, if any, before moving on.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30
Giants: 20
Xavier: 16
Nimm: 14
Arcivus: 5

[Dr_Nimm]

I manipulate the nearby stone (wall of stone) and construct a little fort, 2 or 3 levels high w walls for cover on all levels and arrow slits, reinforcing the crucial areas. M sized entryways on either side. At the top I make a little keep, also w slits, from these slits is where I will launch attacks. Little stairs and ledges communicate to the levels.

"Take cover!" I run up to the little keep at the top

Active buffs :

.
Aid at level 4 to Danae, myself, and Arcivus.

In addition :

Aid at level 2 to Xavier, Leena, Reli.

Enhance ability : dexterity to myself (snorts stimulant powders).

"This combination of herbs used by local shamans and my proprietary chemicals target the occipital lobe of my brain, the visual cortex." (cast True Sight)

[Xavier Alexis]

As my bonus action, I activate Mantle of Joy (Soothing Presence) and grant Arcivus, Dr. Nimm and Leena 21 temporary hit points.

As my action, I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8 (41) psychic damage on the same giant Leena struck once he is within the 120 foot range. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

[DM7581]

I manipulate the nearby stone (wall of stone) and construct a little fort, 2 or 3 levels high w walls for cover on all levels and arrow slits, reinforcing the crucial areas. M sized entryways on either side. At the top I make a little keep, also w slits, from these slits is where I will launch attacks. Little stairs and ledges communicate to the levels.

"Take cover!" I run up to the little keep at the top

Active buffs :

.
Aid at level 4 to Danae, myself, and Arcivus.

In addition :

Aid at level 2 to Xavier, Leena, Reli.

Enhance ability : dexterity to myself (snorts stimulant powders).

"This combination of herbs used by local shamans and my proprietary chemicals target the occipital lobe of my brain, the visual cortex." (cast True Sight)

The Wall of Stone must be composed up 10 10x10 ft panels (6 inch thick stone, AC 15, 180 HP) or 10 10x20 panels (3 inch thick stone, 90 HP). Let me know which you want to go with.

The spell cannot produce the intricacies of slits or spacing smaller than 10 feet, so you can use that for openings (and still use it for cover), but I will allow the stairs effect by introducing a slanted panel that connects the main, second, and third level.

I feel like I want to draw this out. Or you can...


As my bonus action, I activate Mantle of Joy (Soothing Presence) and grant Arcivus, Dr. Nimm and Leena 21 temporary hit points.

As my action, I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8 (41) psychic damage on the same giant Leena struck once he is within the 120 foot range. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

The giant takes the full brunt of the damage and now their pace picks up...

Leena fires too more arrows and then takes cover behind the stone wall.

Leena: Good call on the... fortress, or whatever this is.

She strikes the same one twice, this time for 44 combined damage. The giant still stands, but loos very weak.

The giants then use their turn to close in on you, but also to assault Dr. Nimm's defense with boulders picked up scattered around the area.

Boulders start to fly, smashing into the walls all around you. Since only Nimm, Arcivus, and Leena could have acted (and moved) after the wall was erected, they all can take advantage of full cover. Xavier is limited to at most 3/4 cover.

I am trying to visualize this, but let's break down your 10 panels (i tried breaking this down with 10x10 panels and it didn't work, so you made 10 10x20 panels, 3 in thick):
-2 are being used for stairs.
-6 creating the front "face" of the wall
-1 each to create a platform for the second and third levels. Note that the platforms do not cover the whole floor.
The fort is about 50 feet across and 30 feet high. There are 3 5x5 ft openings on each level.

I drew it out (after multiple attempts). It looks kinda cool. I'll send a pic in Messenger.

Nonetheless, Xavier is struck by a stray boulder for 24, but the others collide into the wall. I am marking the sections 1-6 to keep track of damage. The attacks (randomly) struck these areas (numbered top left to bottom right):

Wall HP:
1: 39/90
2: 90/90
3: 90/90
4: 26/90
5: 22/90
6: 63/90

The bottom right panel is not looking too good. You also notice that there is a troll in the group that did not throw a boulder, but instead closed in closer to the group.

The troll is about 100 feet away, with the other giants (who take larger steps and almost keep up), about 120 feet away (20 feet behind the troll).

Suddenly, after all of that, a large fog appears a little ways in fron of the troll. It is just tall enough (about 20 feet) to cover it and also obscure line of sight to the remaining giants.

You also here loud, deep laughing echo through the cavern. It sounds like it may be coming from the giants, but it... maybe it isn't.

As an aside, Arcivus never reworked his last action, so feel free to redo it. After that, Xavier and then Nimm.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20
Xavier: 16 (HP: 143/162 [Aid HP expended])
Nimm: 14 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP))
???: 12 (don't worry about this little guy right here)
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

[DM7581]

Also, remember that Reli, Mr. Benson, and Danae are at the lower level so are not in this combat.

[Dr_Nimm]

Ten, 10x10 panels are more than enough to enclose all of us in a little fort, but sure.

The wall of stone description says I can crudely shape it to form "crenellations and battlements." So I do that as best as I'm. Able.

[Xavier Alexis]

I react to the boulder attack that struck me.

I activate Intellect Fortress (Psychic Backlash) and impose disadvantage on the attack. If the attack still succeeds, the attacker takes 2d10 (9) psychic damage.

[Ketiara]

I react to the boulder attack that struck me.

I activate Intellect Fortress (Psychic Backlash) and impose disadvantage on the attack. If the attack still succeeds, the attacker takes 2d10 (9) psychic damage.

Arcivus is impressed.
"From now on you are on rock bounce duty!"


He moves to an advantageous position. Perhaps on the wall readying attack if a giant moves within range.

[Dr_Nimm]

Wait it's my turn again?!

[DM7581]

I react to the boulder attack that struck me.

I activate Intellect Fortress (Psychic Backlash) and impose disadvantage on the attack. If the attack still succeeds, the attacker takes 2d10 (9) psychic damage.

The effect works and the boulder veers off target instead. I’ll update your HP.

Are you staying out in the open or moving to within the wall of fortress?


Arcivus is impressed.
"From now on you are on rock bounce duty!"


He moves to an advantageous position. Perhaps on the wall readying attack if a giant moves within range.

You can gain full cover with the wall, protecting you from all attacks.


Wait it's my turn again?!

Yup. Everyone went and now you.

[Xavier Alexis]

I will move to an area of the fortress granting me protection from attacks.

[Dr_Nimm]

I scan the incoming opponents, trying to use visual cues to deduce their possible strengths,attack options, or weaknesses. Perception 25.

[DM7581]

I will move to an area of the fortress granting me protection from attacks.

I won't be so forgiving next time with the clues.

Just kidding.


I scan the incoming opponents, trying to use visual cues to deduce their possible strengths,attack options, or weaknesses. Perception 25.

Basic giant tactics. Hit harder than the other guys.

I will give you some extra insight on this, though, since it was such a high roll.

You notice strange adornments (badges, medallions, etc.), almost religious in nature, being worn by all of them. With your deep knowledge of all things, Religion included, you would expect to recognize the symbol, but you do not. It seems like a novel symbol representing a cult or some sort of faction.

They may even follow another fake/aspiring god (similar to the Chromaticus business). Or maybe a god unknown to you. Well, no, not that because something like this would not be unknown to you.

Something else you notice...


Amidst the lightning and thunder flashes, you can almost make out a massive figure within the swirling vortex of clouds above you, maybe 300 feet up. It is hard to make out much, do to the clouds/fog, but it is definitely humanoid in shape, not unlike a giant, but seems to be within and almost a part of the cloud and storms itself.

You immediately think storm giant, but they cannot fly aloft the way this one is... nor are they capable of blending in with the clouds. It seems to notice you and gives back a powerful stare. Then lightning flashes.

As was your glance, the figure is quickly obscured by the swirling clouds.


Moving on...

Suddenly, a bolt of lightning comes streaking down from the storm, right at Dr. Nimm. Dr. Nimm tries to avoid the blast, but takes 22 thunder damage.


Should have been lightning damage type. That is no normal lightning.


Concentration check to uphold the Wall: 15+13=28 vs DC 11. No problem.

This is followed by what looks like a massive spear formed by the clouds. Again, striking at Dr. Nimm. This one hits for 20 damage. There does not seem to have been away to avoid this, even from behind the wall. Once it hits, fades into a thin mist and then vanishes.

Concentration check again... Nat 20. Good to go.

So now everyone definitely knows that something is UP. Literally. Just not sure what.

Arcivus, giants approach on the ground, yet something is wreaking havoc from above. You go.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20
Xavier: 16 (HP: 155/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 177/183)
???: 12 (don't worry about this little guy right here)
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

[Ketiara]

I won't be so forgiving next time with the clues.

Just kidding.



Basic giant tactics. Hit harder than the other guys.

I will give you some extra insight on this, though, since it was such a high roll.

You notice strange adornments (badges, medallions, etc.), almost religious in nature, being worn by all of them. With your deep knowledge of all things, Religion included, you would expect to recognize the symbol, but you do not. It seems like a novel symbol representing a cult or some sort of faction.

They may even follow another fake/aspiring god (similar to the Chromaticus business). Or maybe a god unknown to you. Well, no, not that because something like this would not be unknown to you.

Something else you notice...


Amidst the lightning and thunder flashes, you can almost make out a massive figure within the swirling vortex of clouds above you, maybe 300 feet up. It is hard to make out much, do to the clouds/fog, but it is definitely humanoid in shape, not unlike a giant, but seems to be within and almost a part of the cloud and storms itself.

You immediately think storm giant, but they cannot fly aloft the way this one is... nor are they capable of blending in with the clouds. It seems to notice you and gives back a powerful stare. Then lightning flashes.

As was your glance, the figure is quickly obscured by the swirling clouds.


Moving on...

Suddenly, a bolt of lightning comes streaking down from the storm, right at Dr. Nimm. Dr. Nimm tries to avoid the blast, but takes 22 thunder damage.


Should have been lightning damage type. That is no normal lightning.


Concentration check to uphold the Wall: 15+13=28 vs DC 11. No problem.

This is followed by what looks like a massive spear formed by the clouds. Again, striking at Dr. Nimm. This one hits for 20 damage. There does not seem to have been away to avoid this, even from behind the wall. Once it hits, fades into a thin mist and then vanishes.

Concentration check again... Nat 20. Good to go.

So now everyone definitely knows that something is UP. Literally. Just not sure what.

Arcivus, giants approach on the ground, yet something is wreaking havoc from above. You go.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20
Xavier: 16 (HP: 155/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 177/183)
???: 12 (don't worry about this little guy right here)
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

As the giants approach Arcivus says a short prayer: (cast bless at 2nd level to target everyone). And then settles into a battle stance awaiting the onslaught

[Dr_Nimm]

I toss two alchemical bombs (fire), one as action and one as bonus action w swift bombs feature. I target the first troll.

Hit 20- 28 damage
Hit 35 29 damage

"Mr Benson, take cover inside the lower fort level. Rupert, return!" ::Rupert hops inside my embroidered red velvet smoking jacket::

[DM7581]

I toss two alchemical bombs (fire), one as action and one as bonus action w swift bombs feature. I target the first troll.

Hit 20- 28 damage
Hit 35 29 damage

"Mr Benson, take cover inside the lower fort level. Rupert, return!" ::Rupert hops inside my embroidered red velvet smoking jacket::

The troll is about 100 feet away and your bomb range is 30/120, so you have (double) disadvantage also including the fog/mist. Obviously disadvantage does not stack, but the first attack misses as a result. The second lands. All this does is infuriate the troll.

Fortunately, Leena cares little for trolls as well. She looses a pair of arrows as it continues to strut forward. Both hit for an even 50. The troll looks weak, but they are savage and fearless.

He charges forward, taking the dash action to close in. He is now within 40 feet.

The remaining giants do the same, as they see the explosive bombs and arrows being tossed your way, with little effect from their boulders. They too close within about 50-60 feet of you all.

This takes us to Xavier, and then Nimm.

You now have a better view of what you are up against. The lone troll advanced first, but the larger-stepping giants caught up real quick.

There are 3 hill giants, 2 frost giants, and a cloud giant, starting about 10 feet behind the troll.

The first rank are the hill giants, about 10 feet away from one another. Then, the 2 frost giants, about 10 feet behind them (20 feet apart). The furthest one is the cloud giant (maybe a total of 70 feet away).

--T--
H-H-H
-F--F-
--C--

Each "rank" and "-" is about 10 feet of distance.

Suddenly, the wind in your area starts to pick up. Some thundering can be heard from above as this happens. The wind strengthens into a focused blast that sweeps along the backside of the wall, catching everyone in its stream. This calls for a Str Save (DC 18) for everyone.

Dr. Nimm and Xavier fail and finds themselves flung across and out into the open, prone on the floor. The wind then suddenly dissipates. You both land about 15 feet away from the wall, on the left side. Arcivus and Leena are able to hold tight and resist the wind.

Up to Xavier and then Nimm. Remember that standing up from prone takes half of your move.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20
Xavier: 16 (HP: 155/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 177/183)
Storm Cloud: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

[DM7581]

I toss two alchemical bombs (fire), one as action and one as bonus action w swift bombs feature. I target the first troll.

Hit 20- 28 damage
Hit 35 29 damage

"Mr Benson, take cover inside the lower fort level. Rupert, return!" ::Rupert hops inside my embroidered red velvet smoking jacket::

Also, remember that Mr. Benson, along with Reli and Danae, are "safe" at the lower level so are not endangered here.

[Xavier Alexis]

First, I activate Light Step, which increases my move to 40 and allows me to stand up without expending any movement.

Next, I stand up.

Then, I activate Energy Beam (Fire) and inflict 4d8+8 (22) damage on the troll. A DC 22 Dexterity Save negates the damage.

Last, I take cover behind the wall, moving as close as possible to Arcivus.

"Regroup!"

[DM7581]

First, I activate Light Step, which increases my move to 40 and allows me to stand up without expending any movement.

Next, I stand up.

Then, I activate Energy Beam (Fire) and inflict 4d8+8 (22) damage on the troll. A DC 22 Dexterity Save negates the damage.

Last, I take cover behind the wall, moving as close as possible to Arcivus.

"Regroup!"

The troll takes the hit and snarls. He looks very weak and noticeably injured.

Dr. Nimm!

[Dr_Nimm]

I stand from prone and run into the fort. Chain lightning at the troll and 3 hill giants. 46 damage.

If I'm. Hit in melee I use reaction tho throw a flash pellet, giving disadvantage

[DM7581]

The troll is toast, and the 3 giants don't look to good either.

Another crack of thunder and lightning result in Dr. Nimm getting struck AGAIN by a mist-like javelin that dissipates once it strikes him. You take 19.

We go to Arcivus. Go!

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20
Xavier: 16 (HP: 155/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 158/183)
Storm Cloud: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

[Ketiara]

Arcivus wait at the walls patiently for the giants to get within reach.

[Dr_Nimm]

"Mr Benson! Guard the entrance."

[DM7581]

Leena sees Arcivus standing fast.

Well, do something!

She fires off a few arrows at the hill giant in the middle. One misses (she was bound to roll a 1 eventually!), but the other tags it for 20.

The giants then hustle forward. The hill giants dash forward, and lower their shoulders. The ground begins to tremble as they thunder forward... At the same time, after seeing the hill giants blasted by the lightning, the 2 frost giants fan out to either side at a diagonal while the cloud giant pushes forward. They all hurl rocks over the hill giants' heads, which collide into the stone wall.

The hill giants finally close in and collide with the wall itself! Since some of these are of shaky integrity, I am calling for a Strength save to not get knocked prone (DC 16). All save except for Dr. Nimm, who finds himself once again on his back.

I'm not picking on you but the dice seem to be.

Suddenly, lightning flashes from above, and a massive thunderclap is heard, localized just behind you all. Xavier and Leena are both deafened by the clap, and hear nothing but ringing in their ears.

This is more of a role-playing hindrance, so even if Arcivus or Nimm try to shout orders/directives to you, you simply cannot hear them.

Quite a round. Next we move to Xavier and then Nimm. For reference the mini-fort is 30 feet high and 50 feet across.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (2 Hill, 2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 155/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 158/183)
Storm Cloud: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

Wall HP:
1: 16/90
2: 90/90
3: 53/90
4: 26/90
5: 16/90
6: 22/90

[DM7581]

Leena sees Arcivus standing fast.

Well, do something!

She fires off a few arrows at the hill giant in the middle. One misses (she was bound to roll a 1 eventually!), but the other tags it for 20.

The giants then hustle forward. The hill giants dash forward, and lower their shoulders. The ground begins to tremble as they thunder forward... At the same time, after seeing the hill giants blasted by the lightning, the 2 frost giants fan out to either side at a diagonal while the cloud giant pushes forward. They all hurl rocks over the hill giants' heads, which collide into the stone wall.

The hill giants finally close in and collide with the wall itself! Since some of these are of shaky integrity, I am calling for a Strength save to not get knocked prone (DC 16). All save except for Dr. Nimm, who finds himself once again on his back.

I'm not picking on you but the dice seem to be.

Suddenly, lightning flashes from above, and a massive thunderclap is heard, localized just behind you all. Xavier and Leena are both deafened by the clap, and hear nothing but ringing in their ears.

This is more of a role-playing hindrance, so even if Arcivus or Nimm try to shout orders/directives to you, you simply cannot hear them.

Quite a round. Next we move to Xavier and then Nimm. For reference the mini-fort is 30 feet high and 50 feet across.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (2 Hill, 2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 155/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 158/183)
Storm Cloud: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

Wall HP:
1: 16/90
2: 90/90
3: 53/90
4: 26/90
5: 16/90
6: 22/90

Correction: the leftmost hill giant had taken some hits and went down with the chain lightning. There are only 2 remaining instead of 3.

[Xavier Alexis]

As my bonus action, I change my psychic focus to Psychic Assault, granting me a +2 damage bonus on talents that inflict psychic damage.

Then, I target one of the charging hill giants.

I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8+2 (40) psychic damage on my target. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

[Ketiara]

Leena sees Arcivus standing fast.

Well, do something!

She fires off a few arrows at the hill giant in the middle. One misses (she was bound to roll a 1 eventually!), but the other tags it for 20.

The giants then hustle forward. The hill giants dash forward, and lower their shoulders. The ground begins to tremble as they thunder forward... At the same time, after seeing the hill giants blasted by the lightning, the 2 frost giants fan out to either side at a diagonal while the cloud giant pushes forward. They all hurl rocks over the hill giants' heads, which collide into the stone wall.

The hill giants finally close in and collide with the wall itself! Since some of these are of shaky integrity, I am calling for a Strength save to not get knocked prone (DC 16). All save except for Dr. Nimm, who finds himself once again on his back.

I'm not picking on you but the dice seem to be.

Suddenly, lightning flashes from above, and a massive thunderclap is heard, localized just behind you all. Xavier and Leena are both deafened by the clap, and hear nothing but ringing in their ears.

This is more of a role-playing hindrance, so even if Arcivus or Nimm try to shout orders/directives to you, you simply cannot hear them.

Quite a round. Next we move to Xavier and then Nimm. For reference the mini-fort is 30 feet high and 50 feet across.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (2 Hill, 2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 155/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 158/183)
Storm Cloud: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

Wall HP:
1: 16/90
2: 90/90
3: 53/90
4: 26/90
5: 16/90
6: 22/90

Is it even possible for me to get within range while standing on top of the wall? And damn I thought I had readied an action, but I see that the last thing I did was cast bless 1 round ago.

[DM7581]

As my bonus action, I change my psychic focus to Psychic Assault, granting me a +2 damage bonus on talents that inflict psychic damage.

Then, I target one of the charging hill giants.

I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8+2 (40) psychic damage on my target. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

I will assume you target the one that Leena had been after. It still stands, but is very noticeably injured.


Is it even possible for me to get within range while standing on top of the wall? And damn I thought I had readied an action, but I see that the last thing I did was cast bless 1 round ago.

You could have maneuvered in front of the wall and readied for an attack against an enemy, though you probably would have been targeted for all 3 boulders and a melee attack, or even readied an action to move upon their approach... the Ready action is tricky, because if the triggered action does not occur, you basically waste an action.

--

Waiting on Dr. Nimm.

[Dr_Nimm]

I stand from prone, maintaining cover as best available.

Fire bomb at the most seemingly injured hill giant, followed by bonus action fire bomb. Both rolled 29 dmg.

Hit roll/dmg
34/29
21/29

Also, int or knowledge check: what the hell is that annoying thing above us? Based on its appearance and powers it launched against us, I try to guess.

D20 roll 8. +7 int bonus. If it's not just an int check, I get another +5.

Dr. Nimm scratches his half bald head on this one.

[DM7581]

I stand from prone, maintaining cover as best available.

Fire bomb at the most seemingly injured hill giant, followed by bonus action fire bomb. Both rolled 29 dmg.

Hit roll/dmg
34/29
21/29

Also, int or knowledge check: what the hell is that annoying thing above us? Based on its appearance and powers it launched against us, I try to guess.

D20 roll 8. +7 int bonus. If it's not just an int check, I get another +5.

Dr. Nimm scratches his half bald head on this one.

There is a giant that is very weak. You can easily take him out.

But I will give you a choice. You can use your action for the Int check to try to cross-reference what this thing is in your book. You have a "its on the tip of my tongue" feeling about it, but can't quite place it. Not passively at least. You are pretty sure there is something in the giants section of your book. FYI, there is a "section" for almost everything in the tome, which is a large book, but not nearly as large as it should be considering how much content is in it.

[Dr_Nimm]

I'll use my action for the int and the bonus to bomb the weaker giant.

[Ketiara]

Arcivus shines like a beacon (activating holy nimbus) everyone within 30ft of him takes 10radiant damage if they start their turn in the light.

He then use his move to move within range of as many as possible, while still standing on top of the wall

[DM7581]

I'll use my action for the int and the bonus to bomb the weaker giant.

The lone giant, weak and crippled, goes down in a burst of flame. His body thumps hard as he collapses.

You then take cover, pull out the tome and flip through a few pages.

Giant Lore.

It is said that some VERY old giants, and even then, only those of ancient lineage, can change. And these changes vary by giant type. You skip the lesser giants, as this phenomenon is clearly related to one of the greater giants-- cloud or storm.

No, not a cloud giant smiling one? No, but storm giant, YES! A storm giant quintessant(?).

You take a quick glance and are able to recall the following before shutting the tome front before leaving yourself open to an attack:

-A storm giant can delay death by becoming a storm themselves. Often times, these giants become mad with power, fear of death, despair, or some other extreme that leads to their transformation.

-They can be defeated, but only if they assume their giant (forsaken) form. In storm form, they are impervious.

-They control weather in and around their lair, which is typically indicative of extreme wind, thunder, lightning, and hail, snow, and/or rain.

-Once defeated, they will probably dissipate into the air, with the surrounding weather returning to "normal" conditions (although in the Doomblizzard Peaks, it is likely to still be very cold).


Arcivus shines like a beacon (activating holy nimbus) everyone within 30ft of him takes 10radiant damage if they start their turn in the light.

He then use his move to move within range of as many as possible, while still standing on top of the wall

There is only a single hill giant that is within range, as the remaining giants have fanned out. Sure you want to stand atop the wall?

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (1 Hill, 2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 155/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 158/183)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

Wall HP:
1: 16/90
2: 90/90
3: 53/90
4: 26/90
5: 16/90
6: 22/90

[DM7581]

Oh, and as Dr. Nimm looks up in confirming what he has discovered, he can almost see the form of a giant swirl within the clouds overhead... as he is again struck with a cloud shaped javelin, this time for 24 damage.

You can deduce that this guy just does not miss with this thing. And it is starting to piss you off.

Concentration on the wall, however, is maintained.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (1 Hill, 2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 155/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

Wall HP:
1: 16/90
2: 90/90
3: 53/90
4: 26/90
5: 16/90
6: 22/90

[Dr_Nimm]

Fascinating (really).

Ooc: did you make this up or its in some guide? I've only skimmed my monster compendium.

Shouts: "It's a quintessent giant! Invulnerable in this state! Thin the rest out as much as we can. We may have to leave."

To himself: "We have to avoid it or make it materialize... But what are its motives? Only then can we bait it. Drat! This ambiguity is bad for my nerves..." Dr. Nimm's hands begin to tremor.

[Xavier Alexis]

I will attempt to telepathically communicate with the Storm Giant Quintessent.

"We are not your enemies. We are here seeking help to combat a great evil. An evil that will destroy you as well as us. Let us end this conflict now."

[DM7581]

Fascinating (really).

Ooc: did you make this up or its in some guide? I've only skimmed my monster compendium.

Shouts: "It's a quintessent giant! Invulnerable in this state! Thin the rest out as much as we can. We may have to leave."

To himself: "We have to avoid it or make it materialize... But what are its motives? Only then can we bait it. Drat! This ambiguity is bad for my nerves..." Dr. Nimm's hands begin to tremor.

DM secrets... no, j/k, it’s a new monster in one of the expansion books. But I throw a little customization here and there for rarity and to better fit the campaign world. The tarrasque ranged tail spines was one example (CR 30 and no ranged attack? An flying character can wear him down solo),

The lead cloud giant then addresses his clan (in giant) from afar as you forewarn the others.

Cloud Giant: This mortal’s knowledge of our kind will be his undoing! Take them alive! They will be a worthy sacrifice to the Storm King!


I will attempt to telepathically communicate with the Storm Giant Quintessent.

"We are not your enemies. We are here seeking help to combat a great evil. An evil that will destroy you as well as us. Let us end this conflict now."

Quintessent: (loudly, in your mind, sounds like a male voice) HA, HA, HO, HO! Great evil? Destroy me? I cannot be destroyed, but rather it is you who should fear death. Ah, yes, I sense it. You do! Good! Oh, oh... there is power in you. I must... yes... I must have it.

He then goes eerily quiete. Sounds like a sicko.

--

Arcivus, sticking with your action on standing above the wall?

[Ketiara]

DM secrets... no, j/k, it’s a new monster in one of the expansion books. But I throw a little customization here and there for rarity and to better fit the campaign world. The tarrasque ranged tail spines was one example (CR 30 and no ranged attack? An flying character can wear him down solo),

The lead cloud giant then addresses his clan (in giant) from afar as you forewarn the others.

Cloud Giant: This mortal’s knowledge of our kind will be his undoing! Take them alive! They will be a worthy sacrifice to the Storm King!



Quintessent: (loudly, in your mind, sounds like a male voice) HA, HA, HO, HO! Great evil? Destroy me? I cannot be destroyed, but rather it is you who should fear death. Ah, yes, I sense it. You do! Good! Oh, oh... there is power in you. I must... yes... I must have it.

He then goes eerily quiete. Sounds like a sicko.

--

Arcivus, sticking with your action on standing above the wall?

Arcivus moves to a spot where he is within 30ft of as many as possible granting them my auras. If possible it will be on the ground. He jumps if nessesary (Athletics: 13+16 = 29) *Superhero landing*

While doing all this he also have time to contemplate his knowledge about Quintessent beings (History/religion 6+17 = 23)

So atm Im giving (to allies within 30ft)
Aura of protection +6saves,
Aura from holy avenger: resistance to magic/magical effects
Aura of devotion: immune to charm/fear
Magic: bless for another 6 rounds
Personal aura: continuous protection from good/evil

[DM7581]

Arcivus moves to a spot where he is within 30ft of as many as possible granting them my auras. If possible it will be on the ground. He jumps if nessesary (Athletics: 13+16 = 29) *Superhero landing*

While doing all this he also have time to contemplate his knowledge about Quintessent beings (History/religion 6+17 = 23)

So atm Im giving: +6saves, resistance to magic/magical effects, immune to charm/fear and bless for another 6 rounds

Just to clarify, which auras are active? If you could list them, it would help. Its a lot to keep track of and this encounter has been moving slower than most, so memory fades.

This still keeps you behind the wall, however, to keep things simple.

Your knowledge of the being, based on Nimm's heads up is very limited Having had a dwarven friend and mentor in Rurik, however, you have some experience in giant lore. Storm Giants are the strongest and most powerful of the different giant types, which gets you thinking...

The recent events of the realm have revealed many creatures attempting to ascend into godhood. You all fought and defeated Chromaticus, a legitimate demi-god based on information granted (in)directly granted to you all by both Bahamut and Tiamat. Even Asmodeus confided in you that there may be a grab for power and that the gods were in fact dead and/or dying. Teleroth Baine's lich father, Azereus Baine, or the Black Scourge as he was known as a lich was another power possibly trying to attain godhood.

The impending invasion by the demons (assuming it has not already happened elsewhere where you all are not) is another sign of end of times.

it is very possible, that as the greatest of giant types, this one is no different than some of these others - simply trying to attain power, and possibly immortality.

Leena takes a few shots at the lone hill giant, since he is closest, and then hides back behind the wall. He takes 35.

The giants then go.

The hill giant maneuvers around and engages Xavier. He swings twice, but only catches his once for 18 damage. The frost giants close due south, so are now only partially affected by the wall. They close within about 20 feet of you all, but dig up some boulders and hurl them at you. One is aimed at Arcivus, and the other at Xavier. Luckily, both miss.

Finally, a strong gust of wind blows behind the wall, hitting Leena, and Dr. Nimm. It nearly topples you over, but you grasp a hold of the wall and maintain your footing. Then it quells. You look up, as if suspecting the Quintessant, and a low rumble is heard, with a soft flash of lightning, as it seems to have been angered by your continued resistance.

FYI: As previously stated with Arcivus, if you have any status effects up, or resistances, please note them at the end of your post.

Going full circle, back to Xavier, then Nimm.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (1 Hill, 2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

Wall HP:
1: 16/90
2: 90/90
3: 53/90
4: 26/90
5: 16/90
6: 22/90

[Xavier Alexis]

First, I react to the attack that struck me. I activate Intellect Fortress (Psychic Backlash) and impose disadvantage on the attack. If the attack still succeeds, the attacker takes 2d10 (11) psychic damage.

Then, I attack the hill giant. I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8+2 (29) psychic damage on my target. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

Last, I take cover next to Leena.

[DM7581]

First, I react to the attack that struck me. I activate Intellect Fortress (Psychic Backlash) and impose disadvantage on the attack. If the attack still succeeds, the attacker takes 2d10 (11) psychic damage.

Then, I attack the hill giant. I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8+2 (29) psychic damage on my target. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

Last, I take cover next to Leena.

The attack does land, despite the disadvantage, but your next blast fries the thing's brain and it topples over with a loud groan and thud.

Leena: Nice work!

She may be a little jealous that she does not have the highest kill count, but she appreciates the effort. They are one of her favored enemies after all.

Nimm!

[Dr_Nimm]

I toss two bombs at the hill giant closest.

Natural 20 and 4
Rolled 4d8 twice for 14 and 24, +7 int= 45 damage!

[DM7581]

I toss two bombs at the hill giant closest.

Natural 20 and 4
Rolled 4d8 twice for 14 and 24, +7 int= 45 damage!

Xavier just blew the last hill giant's brains out, so I'll say you go for a frost giant (the cloud is further away and out of range).

You target the one to the left. He takes the blast, but is singed by the fire. He does not like heat much and grunts at you.

I feel like this sequence has been lagging, so let's pick it up and make it interesting...

Suddenly a loud voice is heard, along with a crack of thunder, as if one and the same.

Enough!

A swirling bolt of lightning and air strikes down in front of you all. The blast scatters the Wall of Stone that Nimm created instantly. The vortex of air starts to take shape-- in that of a massive humanoid form. As a result of the blast, Xavier and Leena are pushed back 10 feet and land prone. Arcivus and Nimm retain their footing.

Standing before you, rises a scantily clad, but powerfully built storm giant. Lightning sparks from one hand and erupts into a powerful sword. In his other, air solidifies into a large javelin.

Kneel! You are indeed powerful and will prove a worthy sacrifice!

In other news, commotion can be heard right below as it seems that Reli and Danae have company.

This brings us to Arcivus. The frost giants have flanked you on either side and the storm giant is ahead, very close. The cloud giant is the furthest away and not accessible unless you have a speed of 50+. It will take your action (Dash) to retreat toward Danae if that is what you decide to do.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (1 Hill, 2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

[Ketiara]

Xavier just blew the last hill giant's brains out, so I'll say you go for a frost giant (the cloud is further away and out of range).

You target the one to the left. He takes the blast, but is singed by the fire. He does not like heat much and grunts at you.

I feel like this sequence has been lagging, so let's pick it up and make it interesting...

Suddenly a loud voice is heard, along with a crack of thunder, as if one and the same.

Enough!

A swirling bolt of lightning and air strikes down in front of you all. The blast scatters the Wall of Stone that Nimm created instantly. The vortex of air starts to take shape-- in that of a massive humanoid form. As a result of the blast, Xavier and Leena are pushed back 10 feet and land prone. Arcivus and Nimm retain their footing.

Standing before you, rises a scantily clad, but powerfully built storm giant. Lightning sparks from one hand and erupts into a powerful sword. In his other, air solidifies into a large javelin.

Kneel! You are indeed powerful and will prove a worthy sacrifice!

In other news, commotion can be heard right below as it seems that Reli and Danae have company.

This brings us to Arcivus. The frost giants have flanked you on either side and the storm giant is ahead, very close. The cloud giant is the furthest away and not accessible unless you have a speed of 50+. It will take your action (Dash) to retreat toward Danae if that is what you decide to do.

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (1 Hill, 2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)

Meta: in the spirit of moving it along. I'll just take it that the commotion at Dana a real threat they need my help with and not just some random sound.

Arcivus move towards Danae preferably without using my action. If I'm within hitting reach I'll do that.
23 hit 39dam
33 hit 31dam
"My sword has been screaming for something to bite into..." he says as he slashes

[DM7581]

Meta: in the spirit of moving it along. I'll just take it that the commotion at Dana a real threat they need my help with and not just some random sound.

Arcivus move towards Danae preferably without using my action. If I'm within hitting reach I'll do that.
23 hit 39dam
33 hit 31dam
"My sword has been screaming for something to bite into..." he says as he slashes

To further simplify things...

Leena: No, you stay! I'll check on them.

Leena is very quick on her feet, especially through rough terrain. Remember that there is a but of a downward rock climb that you would have to make to get to the lower level, which is why Reli could not make it up. As an athletic (Athlete feat) Ranger (Land's Stride), you have no doubt that she could make it down much quiker than you can. Plus she has shown to be formidable enough in combat.

You're call though.

[DM7581]

Meta: in the spirit of moving it along. I'll just take it that the commotion at Dana a real threat they need my help with and not just some random sound.

Arcivus move towards Danae preferably without using my action. If I'm within hitting reach I'll do that.
23 hit 39dam
33 hit 31dam
"My sword has been screaming for something to bite into..." he says as he slashes

And remember that she is at a lower level, so you don't even know what she is up against, let alone what you are swinging at when you might get there (probably end of next round if you go).

[Ketiara]

To further simplify things...

Leena: No, you stay! I'll check on them.

Leena is very quick on her feet, especially through rough terrain. Remember that there is a but of a downward rock climb that you would have to make to get to the lower level, which is why Reli could not make it up. As an athletic (Athlete feat) Ranger (Land's Stride), you have no doubt that she could make it down much quiker than you can. Plus she has shown to be formidable enough in combat.

You're call though.

Arcivus decide to let leena handle it.
"You keep her safe now!"
Arcivus sword is still in need of a target.

If any giants are within reach I'llove there and use my previous attack

[DM7581]

Arcivus decide to let leena handle it.
"You keep her safe now!"
Arcivus sword is still in need of a target.

If any giants are within reach I'llove there and use my previous attack

Either frost giant (left side or right) or the storm giant (ahead) are within your movement range. The frost giant to the left is slightly injured, but the other 2 are unscathed.

[Ketiara]

Either frost giant (left side or right) or the storm giant (ahead) are within your movement range. The frost giant to the left is slightly injured, but the other 2 are unscathed.

Arcivus totally goes for the storm giant. And as he closes in he asks Nimm or Xavier for some protection from lightning.

Meta:
Has he some kind of celestial or fiendish template, now that he is trying to descend to godhood? If so perhaps my protection from good and evil works?

[DM7581]

Arcivus totally goes for the storm giant. And as he closes in he asks Nimm or Xavier for some protection from lightning.

Meta:
Has he some kind of celestial or fiendish template, now that he is trying to descend to godhood? If so perhaps my protection from good and evil works?

You are not sure what he is, but in faith, you let your sword guide you.

You slash into him quite easily, but his body seems somewhat composed of elemental mist/air. The attack did seem at least somewhat effective (he is not immune) but not fully.

Immediately after your attack, his eyes light up in crackling blue energy as he stares you down. A blast of lightning shoots from his chest at you, (saving with a nat 20!), inflicting 17 damage.

Leena takes the Dash action to escape down toward Danae and Reli.

I'll be back. Don't get yourselves killed!

The frost giants then close on Arcivus, defending their master.

The 2 frost giants close in, with hefty axes that look like they might have very well been fashioned from ice, swinging them down on you.

The cloud giant moves off tot he right a bit (keeping himself about 40 feet away from the action) and hurls a boulder at Arcivus.

Shield up to absorb the blows, you take a total of 25 damage after all is said and done (after resistance). This exhausts the remained of your temp HP and cuts into your regular HP total.

Xavier, you have Arcivus surrounded on 3 sides by giants. You go!

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (HP: 198/204)

[Ketiara]

You are not sure what he is, but in faith, you let your sword guide you.

You slash into him quite easily, but his body seems somewhat composed of elemental mist/air. The attack did seem at least somewhat effective (he is not immune) but not fully.

Immediately after your attack, his eyes light up in crackling blue energy as he stares you down. A blast of lightning shoots from his chest at you, (saving with a nat 20!), inflicting 17 damage.

Leena takes the Dash action to escape down toward Danae and Reli.

I'll be back. Don't get yourselves killed!

The frost giants then close on Arcivus, defending their master.

The 2 frost giants close in, with hefty axes that look like they might have very well been fashioned from ice, swinging them down on you.

The cloud giant moves off tot he right a bit (keeping himself about 40 feet away from the action) and hurls a boulder at Arcivus.

Shield up to absorb the blows, you take a total of 25 damage after all is said and done (after resistance). This exhausts the remained of your temp HP and cuts into your regular HP total.

Xavier, you have Arcivus surrounded on 3 sides by giants. You go!

--

Initiative:

Leena: 30 (21 Temp HP, 15 Aid HP)
Giants: 20 (2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (HP: 198/204)

Such a lightning attack save sounds like something that would fit perfectly for my shield master feat?

[DM7581]

Such a lightning attack save sounds like something that would fit perfectly for my shield master feat?

Yes, forgot about that. No damage for that. I updated your HP total.

--

Initiative:

Giants: 20 (2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (11 Aid HP)

[Xavier Alexis]

Focus on offense my friends! Allow me to work on keeping us protected!

As my bonus action, I activate Mantle of Joy (Soothing Presence) and grant Arcivus, Dr. Nimm and I 21 temporary hit points.

As my action, I activate Adaptive Body (Energy Immunity) and grant Arcivus immunity to lightning damage.

[DM7581]

Focus on offense my friends! Allow me to work on keeping us protected!

As my bonus action, I activate Mantle of Joy (Soothing Presence) and grant Arcivus, Dr. Nimm and I 21 temporary hit points.

As my action, I activate Adaptive Body (Energy Immunity) and grant Arcivus immunity to lightning damage.

Simple enough. Nothing for me to add here. Nimm?

[Dr_Nimm]

I stand from prone and with a combination of volatile substances and interpretive dance I release a fire bomb w lv 3 fireball admixture with the epicenter placed such as I can hit two frost giants and or the quintessent.

Bomb 16
Fireball admixture 40,rerolling 1 and 2
Int bonus to bomb+7

Total 63 fire damage.

[DM7581]

I stand from prone and with a combination of volatile substances and interpretive dance I release a fire bomb w lv 3 fireball admixture with the epicenter placed such as I can hit two frost giants and or the quintessent.

Bomb 16
Fireball admixture 40,rerolling 1 and 2
Int bonus to bomb+7

Total 63 fire damage.

Unless you blast Arcivus, you can get 1 Frost Giant and the Storm Giant. For simplicity, I say you include the injured Frost Giant. Remember to separate the bomb and Fireball damage, since I need to track them separately. In order not to hit Arcivus, you have to aim for the far end of the Front Giant, so he takes the bomb damage.

They rear and snarl in pain. The storm furrows his brow and eyes you intensely. Suddenly, a massive gust of wind slams into Dr. Nimm, knocking him back 20 feet, and prone once again.

Feeble mortals! How dare you!

He then grasps his massive sword and swings it powerfully at Arcivus, striking him twice (hitting AC 29 and 30), for a combined 73 damage (43 and 30 damage each hit). However, the damage is pure elemental lightning, so Arcivus takes NO damage, as each swing passes through him harmlessly. Seeing this further enrages the giant.

Arcivus takes a sigh of relief and looks to Xavier with an appreciative nod.

Arcivus, on you.

--

Initiative:

Giants: 20 (2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162; 21 Temp HP)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183; 21 Temp HP)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Aid HP)

[Ketiara]

Unless you blast Arcivus, you can get 1 Frost Giant and the Storm Giant. For simplicity, I say you include the injured Frost Giant. Remember to separate the bomb and Fireball damage, since I need to track them separately. In order not to hit Arcivus, you have to aim for the far end of the Front Giant, so he takes the bomb damage.

They rear and snarl in pain. The storm furrows his brow and eyes you intensely. Suddenly, a massive gust of wind slams into Dr. Nimm, knocking him back 20 feet, and prone once again.

Feeble mortals! How dare you!

He then grasps his massive sword and swings it powerfully at Arcivus, striking him twice (hitting AC 29 and 30), for a combined 73 damage (43 and 30 damage each hit). However, the damage is pure elemental lightning, so Arcivus takes NO damage, as each swing passes through him harmlessly. Seeing this further enrages the giant.

Arcivus takes a sigh of relief and looks to Xavier with an appreciative nod.

Arcivus, on you.

--

Initiative:

Giants: 20 (2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162; 21 Temp HP)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183; 21 Temp HP)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (21 Aid HP)

Arcivus not really trusting the effect put on by Xavier, has made up his mind that Xaviers magic is pretty cool... His latest memory of electricity with that power was a Balor King and his lightning sword... Arcivus shudders.

But with a sudden resolve arcivus lifts his sword to the heavens fueling it with heavenly powers... and then swing!

16+16 = 32. (1d8)7+11 +(1d8)3+(4d8)24 = 45
3+16 = 19? (1d8)4+11 +(1d8)5+(4d8)16 = 36


Effects:
Spell: Bless - Aura(30ft radius): Courage(immu fear), Protection(+6saves), Devotion(immu charm), Holy Avenger(adv. spell/magic). Personal: Purity of Spirit(prot against evil/good). Epic: Boon of Resilience(resistance to B/S/P weapon)
Spells prepared (25), Spellslots: 16 Spells used: 3
((D) = Devotion spells)
1 (3/4): Protection from Evil and Good (D), Sanctuary (D), Bless, Heroism, Shield of Faith, Wrathful Smite
2 (3): Lesser Restoration (D), Zone of Truth (D), Protection from poison, Protection from poison, Locate Object
3 (1/3): Beacon of Hope (D), Dispel Magic (D), Blinding Smite, Aura of Vitality, Crusaders Mantle
4 (3): Freedom of Movement (D), Guardian of Faith (D), Death Ward, Staggering Smite, Locate Creature
5 (3): Commune (D), Flame Strike (D), Banishing smite, Destruction Wave, Circle of Power

[DM7581]

Arcivus not really trusting the effect put on by Xavier, has made up his mind that Xaviers magic is pretty cool... His latest memory of electricity with that power was a Balor King and his lightning sword... Arcivus shudders.

But with a sudden resolve arcivus lifts his sword to the heavens fueling it with heavenly powers... and then swing!

16+16 = 32. (1d8)7+11 +(1d8)3+(4d8)24 = 45
3+16 = 19? (1d8)4+11 +(1d8)5+(4d8)16 = 36


Effects:
Spell: Bless - Aura(30ft radius): Courage(immu fear), Protection(+6saves), Devotion(immu charm), Holy Avenger(adv. spell/magic). Personal: Purity of Spirit(prot against evil/good). Epic: Boon of Resilience(resistance to B/S/P weapon)
Spells prepared (25), Spellslots: 16 Spells used: 3
((D) = Devotion spells)
1 (3/4): Protection from Evil and Good (D), Sanctuary (D), Bless, Heroism, Shield of Faith, Wrathful Smite
2 (3): Lesser Restoration (D), Zone of Truth (D), Protection from poison, Protection from poison, Locate Object
3 (1/3): Beacon of Hope (D), Dispel Magic (D), Blinding Smite, Aura of Vitality, Crusaders Mantle
4 (3): Freedom of Movement (D), Guardian of Faith (D), Death Ward, Staggering Smite, Locate Creature
5 (3): Commune (D), Flame Strike (D), Banishing smite, Destruction Wave, Circle of Power

I assume still at the storm giant?

Both hits land, as he tries to parry your blows with his own massive sword. The pure power and impact deal damage, even though his blade interposes and absorbs most of the blow (full damage, just going for cinematic effect).

He then immediately retaliates with a powerful blast of pure thunderous energy, in a focused line - this time toward Xavier. It hits him, but just barely (save for half), dealing 12 thunder damage.

The giants, now angered at Arcivus' persistence, focus all of their energies on him.

The 2 frost giants heave their axes, one crits for 18 damage (after resistance) and the other lands a single blow for 9. The cloud giant quickly stomps forward - and then vanishes quickly, only to appear behind Arcivus (Misty Step ability). He draws a large, but finely crafted morning star and continues the assault. Of the 2 swings, only a single one lands, for 21 damage. This one hurt and Arcivus can sense that it is magical (bypassing resistance).

Back around to Xavier. Arcivus is surrounded on all sides: storm giant at his front, cloud at his back, and the 2 frost giants to the left and right of him, respectively.

--

Initiative:

Giants: 20 (2 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162; 9 Temp HP)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183; 21 Temp HP)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (HP: 177/204)

[Xavier Alexis]

I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8 (35) psychic damage on the most injured giant. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

[DM7581]

I activate Mind Thrust and inflict 4d10+8 (35) psychic damage on the most injured giant. A DC 22 Intelligence Save negates the damage.

You've piled on the pain on the right-most frost giant and this takes him down to his knee. He twitches as he drops his axe and grasps his head, bellowing in pain. He then flops backward, with a thunderous boom.

The storm giant sees Xavier focusing on the effect and takes notice.

Nimm, on you. Now Arcivus has 3 giants on him, the storm at point, a frost to his left, and a cloud at his rear (closest to you). Even still, you are a good 40 feet away because of the knock back.

[Dr_Nimm]

"YOU SHALL NOT PASS!" I pound my staff into the ground and collapse it. Everyone falls into a bottomless abyss.

"Ha! I was merely acting!"

I use CRUD (Complex Ray of Ultimate Destruction)!

Aiming at the most injured or nearest frost giant:

6 beams.
Die roll (+13 to hit)/damage
32/4
27/8
26/6
26/6
23/6
Natural 1

I don't think the damage gets any kind of bonus.

[DM7581]

"YOU SHALL NOT PASS!" I pound my staff into the ground and collapse it. Everyone falls into a bottomless abyss.

"Ha! I was merely acting!"

I use CRUD (Complex Ray of Ultimate Destruction)!

Aiming at the most injured or nearest frost giant:

6 beams.
Die roll (+13 to hit)/damage
32/4
27/8
26/6
26/6
23/6
Natural 1

I don't think the damage gets any kind of bonus.

There is only the 1 frost giant, along with the cloud and storm giant (3 total), all surrounding Arcivus, trying to take him down.

You blast the frost giant, with each one striking true. A combined 30 damage. Not bad.

The storm giant is ever frustrated with Arcivus' persistence. He forms a magical javelin, made purely of wind, and strikes at Arcivus with it, twice! Arcivus braces with his shield, but it is of no use - the javelin passes through and blast him, through his armor and shield, for a combined 32 damage.

These are the same javelins that were striking Dr. Nimm earlier on. They just wouldn't miss...

The giant smiles, deviously, as he seems to have found something that put some hurt on you. On to Arcivus!

--

Initiative:

Giants: 20 (1 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162; 9 Temp HP)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183; 21 Temp HP)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (HP: 145/204)

[Ketiara]

There is only the 1 frost giant, along with the cloud and storm giant (3 total), all surrounding Arcivus, trying to take him down.

You blast the frost giant, with each one striking true. A combined 30 damage. Not bad.

The storm giant is ever frustrated with Arcivus' persistence. He forms a magical javelin, made purely of wind, and strikes at Arcivus with it, twice! Arcivus braces with his shield, but it is of no use - the javelin passes through and blast him, through his armor and shield, for a combined 32 damage.

These are the same javelins that were striking Dr. Nimm earlier on. They just wouldn't miss...

The giant smiles, deviously, as he seems to have found something that put some hurt on you. On to Arcivus!

--

Initiative:

Giants: 20 (1 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162; 9 Temp HP)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183; 21 Temp HP)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12
Arcivus: 5 (HP: 145/204)

Can I somehow sense what source of magic or what this wind attack is? roll20(13)+?

Arcivus brushes off the wind attack and continue hitting the Quintessence.

Attack1: 9 + 16 = 25; (1d8)8+12 +(1d8)5 + (5d8)31 = 56
Attack2: 19 + 16 = 35; (1d8)3+12 +(1d8)1 + (5d8)25 = 41

10 radiant damage to hostiles within 30 ft of me.

So atm Im giving (to allies within 30ft)
Holy Nimbus (10radiant dam pr round) active for another 8 rounds... forgot about that but its still on.
Aura of protection +6saves,
Aura from holy avenger: resistance to magic/magical effects
Aura of devotion: immune to charm/fear
Magic: bless for another 3 rounds
Personal aura: continuous protection from good/evil


Effects:
Spell: Bless - Aura(30ft radius): Courage(immu fear), Protection(+6saves), Devotion(immu charm), Holy Avenger(adv. spell/magic). Personal: Purity of Spirit(prot against evil/good). Epic: Boon of Resilience(resistance to B/S/P weapon)
Spells prepared (25), Spellslots: 16 Spells used: 5
((D) = Devotion spells)
1 (3/4): Protection from Evil and Good (D), Sanctuary (D), Bless, Heroism, Shield of Faith, Wrathful Smite
2 (3): Lesser Restoration (D), Zone of Truth (D), Protection from poison, Protection from poison, Locate Object
3 (1/3): Beacon of Hope (D), Dispel Magic (D), Blinding Smite, Aura of Vitality, Crusaders Mantle
4 (1/3): Freedom of Movement (D), Guardian of Faith (D), Death Ward, Staggering Smite, Locate Creature
5 (3): Commune (D), Flame Strike (D), Banishing smite, Destruction Wave, Circle of Power

[DM7581]

Can I somehow sense what source of magic or what this wind attack is? roll20(13)+?

Arcivus brushes off the wind attack and continue hitting the Quintessence.

Attack1: 9 + 16 = 25; (1d8)8+12 +(1d8)5 + (5d8)31 = 56
Attack2: 19 + 16 = 35; (1d8)3+12 +(1d8)1 + (5d8)25 = 41

10 radiant damage to hostiles within 30 ft of me.

So atm Im giving (to allies within 30ft)
Holy Nimbus (10radiant dam pr round) active for another 8 rounds... forgot about that but its still on.
Aura of protection +6saves,
Aura from holy avenger: resistance to magic/magical effects
Aura of devotion: immune to charm/fear
Magic: bless for another 3 rounds
Personal aura: continuous protection from good/evil


Effects:
Spell: Bless - Aura(30ft radius): Courage(immu fear), Protection(+6saves), Devotion(immu charm), Holy Avenger(adv. spell/magic). Personal: Purity of Spirit(prot against evil/good). Epic: Boon of Resilience(resistance to B/S/P weapon)
Spells prepared (25), Spellslots: 16 Spells used: 5
((D) = Devotion spells)
1 (3/4): Protection from Evil and Good (D), Sanctuary (D), Bless, Heroism, Shield of Faith, Wrathful Smite
2 (3): Lesser Restoration (D), Zone of Truth (D), Protection from poison, Protection from poison, Locate Object
3 (1/3): Beacon of Hope (D), Dispel Magic (D), Blinding Smite, Aura of Vitality, Crusaders Mantle
4 (1/3): Freedom of Movement (D), Guardian of Faith (D), Death Ward, Staggering Smite, Locate Creature
5 (3): Commune (D), Flame Strike (D), Banishing smite, Destruction Wave, Circle of Power

The storm giant rears in pain.Many of the blows seem to pass through it, but as you shred the cloud-like hide, you can tell that your attacks are injuring him to full effect.

He falls to a knee and curses you in giant. He gives you a coy grin, spitting up some blood, and then dissolves, into a vortex of air, which re-assimilates into the storm clouds above.

Giants (in Giant): Finish them! They dare strike at our master!

Arcivus is again the target of the collective assault. His shining beacon of hope seems to really disgust them.

The frost giant swings twice, for 20 (after resistance).

The cloud giant follows up with its own flurry, striking for 14 (again, after resistance, but only one hit lands true).

Xavier and the Nimm. Let's go!

--

Initiative:

Giants: 20 (1 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162; 9 Temp HP)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 134/183; 21 Temp HP)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12 (storm form)
Arcivus: 5 (HP: 111/204)

[Xavier Alexis]

I heal Arcivus.

As my action, I activate Psionic Restoration (Mend Wounds) and heal Arcivus 7d8 (26) hit points.

As my bonus action, I activate Mystical Recovery, regaining 7 hit points.

[DM7581]

I heal Arcivus.

As my action, I activate Psionic Restoration (Mend Wounds) and heal Arcivus 7d8 (26) hit points.

As my bonus action, I activate Mystical Recovery, regaining 7 hit points.

Done. Dr. Nimm?

--

Initiative:

Giants: 20 (1 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162; 9 Temp HP)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 141/183; 21 Temp HP)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12 (storm form)
Arcivus: 5 (HP: 137/204)

[Dr_Nimm]

Did Arcivus ever figure out what damage type that was? You never acknowledged success or failure.

[DM7581]

Did Arcivus ever figure out what damage type that was? You never acknowledged success or failure.

Thunder damage, although some abilities were lightning, he saw Arcivis was immune.

[Dr_Nimm]

I Heal Archie for 70 hp!

Feel the positive vibes of alchemy!

[DM7581]

I Heal Archie for 70 hp!

Feel the positive vibes of alchemy!

Keep track of those slots.

The storm giant snarls out at Nimm and flings another javelin at him. It hits again, this time for 21 damage, exhausting your temp HP reserve.

The giant looks at the bunch of you and seems visibly frustrated at your heartiness... The frost and cloud seem less shaken, though, and look to be willing to fight to the death.

On to Arcivus.

--

Initiative:

Giants: 20 (1 Frost, 1 Cloud)
Xavier: 16 (HP: 137/162; 9 Temp HP)
Nimm: 14 (HP: 141/183)
Storm Giant Quintessent: 12 (storm form)
Arcivus: 5 (HP: 204/204)