5E Castlevania

[Plaids]

Wispy light dapples your clothes as the final remnants of the day filter through the park groves and warm any exposed skin in contrast to the crisp air which has become more commonplace as the season has progressed. You are all within the city park grounds having been tasked to with providing additional vigilance and if needed, security for the coming festivities.

Though the more adventurous of you may groan at such a pedestrian assignment you all have your reasons for attending. The dutiful and serious aim to abide by orders of your supervisor. While the more lighthearted or whimsical see a rare opportunity to blend in and frolic amongst the crowd. Either way the city was low on qualified help and here you are.

The Harvest Tithe festival is hardly a generation old, but the conventions are now well established. Costumed children rove the park in packs politely knocking on doors, requesting a “tithe or harvest”, before receiving a snack or confectionary and repeating the cycle once more.
Jaina can taste the sweet treats through her viscous membrane as their aroma begins to waft through the air. The park grounds after the festivities would surely be able sustain you for weeks.

As the sun dims Markus can feel additional vitality welling within his and added acuity to senses. The elevated heartbeats of the crowd begin to come into focus.
The setting sun begins to bring the unique condition of Azzalix into view as the creases in her clothes begin to glow. The playful voices catch your attention and stand in contrast to the voices that typically come to you in the night.

As the park grounds begin to fill people you see several groups form at varying distances from center of the park grounds. At the center wide set man in dignified clothes stands before some fit workers erecting a stage. He smiles and fraternizes with the adults in the crowd with the obligatory cheer one would expect from a politician. In the mid rim children flock around decorated tents partaking in activities meant to occupy the children. A weary man can be seen fruitlessly requesting help as bouncing children begin to line up near his tent. At the perimeter of the park small candles can be seen being lit attracting small bands of rebellious and disgruntled teenagers.
The celebrations have begun.

Spoiler: Thing to consider: Your appearance

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What are you wearing and are you in some costume? If applicable, are you using concentration to hide your true nature? Both choices will affect how people interact with you. Otherwise, you are free move about the park at your discretion while fulfilling your duties.

https://forums.giantitp.com/showthre...nia&p=25482081

[Izzarra]

Azzalix Celestial Warlock HP: 24/24, AC: 15, Resistance: Fire, Radiant Conditions: None Spell Slots: 2/2

Azzalix has decorated her large curling horns for the occasion. For the most part she is wearing her normal kit though she is keeping her large wings, that are covered with silky dark indigo feathers, hidden under a cloak.

Ever since she was chosen by her patron her horns tend to glow, and with the sunlight fading it was becoming more apparent. To draw attention away from her innate glow she is doing fun displays for the children with Prestidigitation and Minor Illusion.

[JNAProductions]

Jayna looks to all the world as a relatively normal, if racially ambiguous, humanoid. Her features can't be quite placed as human, or, elven, or dwarven, or anything else solidly... But she doesn't look out of place, at least. She's near Azzalix right now.

With a glance towards the man trying to corral the children, she asks the other woman "Think we should help him out? The kids might be distracted by you, which... Maybe good?"

[Lioslaith]

Taking a deep inhale as the night brings breath back to his body, Athelras or as his companions know him here, Markus let’s his senses expand and take in all the hustle and bustle of the Harvest festival was.

He begins a slow walk around the perimeter of the festivities, keeping an ever watchful eye out. He looks as normal as any other person attending the festival.

[Izzarra]

Azzalix Celestial Warlock HP: 24/24, AC: 15, Resistance: Fire, Radiant Conditions: None Spell Slots: 2/2

Azzalix offers to help the man that the kids are mobbing.

[Plaids]

As the festivities proceed the groups attention begins to divert towards various elements of the carnival.
As circles the perimeter of the festivities Markus's attention is brought towards the group adolescents. The group crowds together amongst small lanterns underneath the broud leafed trees. One group plays a game with several parties each taking turns attempting to launch small marbles of their own colors into winning positions. Though the group has mad the addition of each blunder being punishable by a swig from a large brown bottle.
A smaller group of three lies further in concealment with a young with a young woman draped on his shoulder beside a squat scaly figure it's eyes and teeth reflecting the scant light available.

Spoiler: The outskirts

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If Markus want's to observe instead of interacting with anything feel free to roll Perception or Insight.

Just as Azzalix strides away an answer comes from a woman with a mirthful cackle.
"Hee hee, ha. I would keep my distance if I were sweetie. Seamus was last in the rotation for choosing carnival tasks so he got ghoul duties. Stick around if you want to see a show."

Azzalix Seamus who quickly accepts the offer while clumsily attempting to hide his relief while hastily explaining the task to Azzalix. Most likely to avoid a renege of the offer.
"The task is simple. Just put on the costume to be the ghoul for ghoul quelling. You'll be done with this group once the corn runs out or the tykes get tuckered out. Looks like I need to pick up some more kernels. Good luck now." The man hands over a fanged mask clearly of a vampire and a worn black cape before exiting the vicinity. Taking care to close the lid on a half empty barrel on his way out.

The children now bounce giddily chanting "quell! quell! quell!"

Spoiler: The pawned off task

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Looks like Azzalix was roped into a festival activity. The ghoul quelling has playing the part of heroes to defeat a horrible monster. This being done by pelting it with some of the latest harvest. If Azzalix goes through with the task roll acrobatics or performance to avoid the worst of the barrage. You could roll a different skill at -4 to attempt something else and possibly get a different effect.

[Lioslaith]

Markus will alter his walk generally towards fangs and the woman draped over the shoulder. As he gets closer he will try and discern what is going on in case it’s not what he originally assumed.

Spoiler: Insight

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(1d20+3)[9]

[JNAProductions]

Jayna, seeing Azzalix getting suckered into the new task, gives her a smile and a gesture of encouragement.

But, now realizing that she's about the only one still working their main job, starts to patrol the outer area.

[Izzarra]

Azzalix Celestial Warlock HP: 24/24, AC: 15, Resistance: Fire, Radiant Conditions: None Spell Slots: 2/2

Azzalix is a little surprised to be drafted into the position does what she can.

Spoiler: OOC

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Cast guidance on self.
Performance: (1d20+3)[8]
Guidance: (1d4)[3]

[Plaids]

As Markus encroaches further to the couple and squat creature the vegetation obscures much of the scene. What can be discerned is the absence of movement in the scaled creature and the teens teetering shoulders indicating some intense emotion which is masked by their own cupped hands.

Spoiler: The observation

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Not too much was gleamed beyond simple gestures unfortunately the meaning is not fully deciphered

Despite not having been fully informed of the task Azzalix's dutiful obligation to the task draw some silent admirers. Several with a few loose grains adorning themselves. The mask is small enough to avoid being impeded by tiefling horns and the cape is loose and comfortable on her frame. Enacting the part of a skulking vampire comes easily enough and children delight battering this creature of the night which their parents once had to accomodate. The pedestrian costume offers ample protection but a clumsy stride on top of some loose grains dislodges the mask allowing a few offending kernels to strike the side of your head. A slight stinging can be felt above the eye.

Spoiler: festivity hazard

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Unfortunately Azzalix didn't avoid everything. Make a DC10 concentration check to see if she can hold the majority of her facade together.

As Jayna leaves Azzalix to her fate she is treated to a greater view of the carnival. Parents and children weave throughout the crowd all to a communal tempo. Sweet scents permeate the air further while the scent of sweat tinges the crowd gathered about the stage. The cause being the large open flame ready to devour the scornful effigies prepared prior to the festival. All manner of liches, vampires, and lycanthropes dopily brought to life with corn stalks and peach pits. As Jayna patrols the perimeter of the crowd, a now extra gelatinous inner ear now faintly feels a slight discrepancy towards the crowd.

Spoiler: The feeling

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Something is occurring. Roll perception or use an exhaustible power or 1st level spell to roll with advantage.

[Lioslaith]

Markus will move in closer and announce himself quietly, "Good evening. What are you up to this fine evening?"

[JNAProductions]

Jayna summons a small, black cat-a temporary familiar. "Go see what's up," she tells the little animal, while investigating herself.

Spoiler: OOC

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Using Wild Companion to summon a Familiar. It'll last for half Druid level hours.

(1d20+4)[5] Perception
(1d20+4)[8] Advantage

Edit: *Sad trombone noises*

[Izzarra]

Azzalix Celestial Warlock HP: 24/24, AC: 15, Resistance: Fire, Radiant Conditions: None Spell Slots: 2/2

Spoiler: OOC

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Concentration: (1d20+2)[18]

[Plaids]

The small familiar acknowledges Jayna's commands with a brisk flick of its ears before disappearing in the thicket of legs before the stage. After a quick investigation the familiar returns gifting you Jayna with a large millipede with both ends curling towards one another. The investigation has yielded no evidence of new threats. The crowd now curiously murmur as something on the stage catches their attention.

As the irritation from the stinging kernels climax a voice and a chiming bell begin to ring within the mind of Azzalix.
"... absence ... respect ... deserve"
Azzalix leverages her previous training and averts from any radiant outbursts this time.
As her surroundings come into focus the same old man relieves her of the loaned costume. Another woman gently escorts the children away to a crafts tent to occupy them elsewhere. He winces before apologetically consoling her.
"Sorry, terribly sorry. It was my fifth incoming group and I thought a youngen would be best for the task." He quickly rifles through pockets before producing a rough gray stone with yellow speckles. "For your troubles. I assume you're not interested in confectionaries on tonight of all nights."

As the Markus approaches the three figures the amorous duo startle and bounce into one another. Their awkward movement send cards flying towards the ground. Several of which fly straight through the squat figure who upon closer inspection is a fish like kuo-toa and an illusion. The boy is a human well dressed while his partner is girl half-orc. The boy folds his hair back behind his ears as he provides his explanation.
"Looks like you got us. We were going to play a joke, a performance for our fathers. Show what we've learned from old Gilidix". He begins wringing his hands hoping the explanation will suffice.
The girl picks up from where he left off. "Yeah, we were planning on showing what we made together." She quickly swipes a card from the ground. "You can see our uh... wax golem for yourself." See smiles hoping to receive some lenience she has been lacking as of late.

[Lioslaith]

Markus takes the card and examines it while insight checking the duo in the process.

Spoiler: OOC

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Insight check (1d20+3)[5]

[JNAProductions]

She walks forward, idly leaning down to pet her familiar. "Good kitty... I guess."

When she reaches the crowd, she asks "What's going on? What're we all looking at?"

[Izzarra]

Azzalix Celestial Warlock HP: 24/24, AC: 15, Resistance: Fire, Radiant Conditions: None Spell Slots: 2/2

Azzalix thanks the man for the rock and pockets it for later examination.

She spends a few minutes going around taking in the event.

[Plaids]

Peering over the card it provides a weak iridescent gold glow. The image is of a wax golem posing amongst a blue background contrasting with its gooey yellow body. The two teenagers seem genuine as they become occupied with grabbing cards as quickly while peaking over their shoulders in an attempt to gauge your evaluation of them. They clearly want to avoid the disapproval of an authority figure who might not provide some leniency.

Spoiler: Wax golem

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Jayna's question requires no response as the answer becomes self-evident. A fishman effigy crafted from melon husks and chicken bones begins swaying above the fire. The mayor and his attendants keep their distance wary of touching the putrid figure. Though this approach fails to assuage the crowds discomfort.
Suddenly A shrill screech can be heard as a hand erupts from the effigy. A wet smack can be heard as the rest of the body spills forward onto the stage silencing the crowd.

As the crowd gathers its wits a wet slurping sound can be heard alongside the creaking of wood as a creature the size of another creature emerges from beneath the stage. It possesses the strong pincers of a lobster along with the strong back and high heeled legs of a horse.

The creature shakes it's wide neck dislodging insects which swarm outwards toward the crowd as prepares to attack.

Spoiler: Beginning of combat

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Roll initiative everyone.
Insect swarm: (1d20+1)[20]
Large beast: (1d20)[2]
Combat should be fairly smooth given that there are only three people. If someone is absent for a while I'll have a PC act as a team player and follow the suggestions of a teammate.

Spoiler: The creature

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[Lioslaith]

”Alright, quit skulking in the shadows.” I will hand them back the card and shoo them towards the festival.

[JNAProductions]

"Everyone, back away!" Jayna shouts. "I'll handle this thing!"

Spoiler: OOC

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(1d20)[9] Init roll

I'm probably gonna cast Entangle on the thing, but I don't want to catch any innocents in the AoE.

[Lioslaith]

As I hear Jayna shout I curse and turn to sprint towards the commotion.

Spoiler: Init

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(1d20+3)[15]

[Izzarra]

Azzalix Celestial Warlock HP: 24/24, AC: 15, Resistance: Fire, Radiant Conditions: None Spell Slots: 2/2

With the appearance of a monster the Azzalix's focus immediately goes to the children and making sure that they are able to get clear of the area.

Spoiler: OOC

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Initiative: (1d20+3)[13]

[Plaids]

The crowd reacts in textbook fashion, chaotically dispersing from the epicenter of the action.
Azzalix's decisive action sees the children chaperoned to safety by the old man and woman who had been spectating Azzalix.
The two youths nod calmly and upon receiving their card before jogging out of the park underbrush.

Unfortunately for Jayna the crowd isn't thinking straight and can't be consoled or commanded. The crowd becomes a forceful current radiating out from the stage. Pressing past them will take additional effort.

The insects taking notice of a figure failing to retreat from them swarm hungrily towards Jayna.

Spoiler: Insect swarm rolls

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To hit (1d20+3)[20]
Potential damage (4d4)[10]

The insects crawl beneath Jayna's armor and into her fabricated mouth and begin biting.

Spoiler: The terrain and positioning

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Azzalix: Azzalix is 35 feet from the stage.
Jayna: Jayna is 20 feet from the stage.
Markus: Markus is 65 feet from the stage.

Terrain: The crowd thins out enough at 30 feet and beyond the stage to dart of the way of running townsfolk. But any closer to the stage is difficult terrain and costs twice the movement on the ground. Jayna can use her amorphous body to squeeze and contort between people without a penalty. Crowd control could be done for an action but results may vary.

The large crustacean swivels its eye stalks to stare intently at the figure recently emerged from effigy. It clicks its claws, dislodging dirt and grass from its claws.

[JNAProductions]

Swearing, Jayna casts Entangle, summoning a swarm of her own-grasping vines and plants, holding the crustacean down.

She also focuses and summons a mighty bear spirit, the spectral beast appearing calmly floating a bit above everyone.

Spoiler: OOC

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DC 14 Strength save on the crab.
Then, myself, my comrades, and all the fleeing people within a 30' radius of a point centered such to catch all the party gain 8 THP. Anyone so affected also gains advantage on Strength saves and checks while within the area.

[Lioslaith]

As Jayna is casting she feels a crossbow bolt whizz by her head and into the creature (hopefully)

Spoiler: Att & dam

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(1d20+5)[23] Attack
(1d8+3)[4] damage

edit: And move 15' forward trying to push my way through the crowd.

[Plaids]

The creature hisses as roots and vines encircle it's feet. But it's strong legs buck away the greenery but it takes extra care to run towards the figure who escaped effigy.
(1d20+4)[24]
The arrow head whistles through the air and embeds itself in the creatures neck. It hisses and the effigy figure takes the opportunity to stumble offstage and away from the chitinous monster.

[Izzarra]

Azzalix Celestial Warlock HP: 24/24, AC: 15, Resistance: Fire, Radiant Conditions: None Spell Slots: 2/2

With the children clear of the danger Azzalix unfurls her wings from under her cloak and flies up into the air to get a clear shot at the crustacean.

Spoiler: OOC

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Eldritch Blast
Attack: (1d20+3)[16]
Damage: (1d10+3)[6]

[Plaids]

Having unfurled her wings to launch herself in the air Azzalix is afforded an ideal vantage point.
The eldritch blast connects and a hardened scale on its side buckles and snaps leaving a dark green bruise on its side.

The creature lumbers forward pushing past a small field of entangling vines which hamper it's advance. Being unable to grasp at the running figure it turns it's attention briefly at the party.
Grasping debris in both claws it awkwardly hurls two projectiles towards Azzalix.

Spoiler: Debris roll

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1st [roll]1d20[/roll] and 2nd [roll]1d20[/roll]
[roll]1d4+1[/roll] [roll]1d4+1[/roll]
If either piece hits roll a constitution saving throw against falling back to the ground.

Perhaps sensing their quarry escape the swarm abandon Jayna and swarm the retreating figure.
Bodes chitter and buzz and eyelids are targeted by stinging mandibles.
[roll]1d20+3[/roll]

[Plaids]

The creature lumbers forward pushing past a small field of entangling vines which hamper it's advance. Being unable to grasp at the running figure it turns it's attention briefly at the party.
Grasping debris in both claws it awkwardly hurls two projectiles towards Azzalix. One sails clear overhead while another bludgeons here shoulder and bruises a rib.

Spoiler: Debris roll

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1st (1d20)[17] and 2nd (1d20)[6]
(1d4+1)[4] (1d4+1)[2]
If either piece hits roll a constitution saving throw against falling back to the ground.

Perhaps sensing their quarry escape the swarm abandon Jayna and swarm the retreating figure.
Bodes chitter and buzz and eyelids are targeted by stinging mandibles.
(1d20+3)[10]

The escapee collapses and screams in pain as they are incapacitated by the loss of their senses.

[Lioslaith]

Spoiler: OOC

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I think I misread the terrain and positioning thing wrong.

Markus will close to within 30’ of the creature and fire another bolt.

Spoiler: Att/dam/curses and such

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(1d20+5)[13] att
(1d8+3)[10] dam
(1d4)[1] hemo craft die
Target is cursed with Blood Curse of bloated agony - creature has disadvantages on str and dex checks and takes 1d8 necro damage if it makes more than one att on its turn.
(1d8)[1] additional damage