3.4 Under the Underbarrel: The Hideout
The Frostyear Guardians, Book I:
The Heroes of Adrest
9 Ches, 1491. Mid/late evening
Continued from 3.3.A Down the Stairs
DM WHISPERS TO SALEEK, RANDAL, VARIAN, ADMOIRA: Saleek, Randal, Varian, and Admoira having just dispatched the Blacksashes, prepare to return to the north, just in time to see a large well armored man bound down the stairs at the southern end of the hall and into view.
DM WHISPERS TO RINI AND KENRIS: You both sprint down the staircase, over the landing and out through the open door just in time to see the large wolf crush a man's throat in its jaws and turn to the north with Saleek and the others. RINI TO DM: Do we have time to act? Do we recognize the man? Sure, Rini give me a intelligence check, first. Rini rolls intelligence check [[1d20+4]]=14+4=18 Rini you notice 3 bodies along the ground of this massive hall. It takes you a moment to place them, because you had only seen them through owl eyes before, but they are the three Blacksash men from the brewery not long ago. RINI: Rini began to ready a firebolt at the wolf...however upon seeing the bodies of the Blacksash he holds off on releasing the spell and turns to Saleek..." (confused) "I take it that wolf is friendly to us?" ADMOIRA: The wolf looks directly at Rini and nods. The party is reunited in a large hall lined with regularly spaced irregular stone pillars. Dead Blacksashes lay at their feet. To the north lies the area the thigs were using for storage. And their hideout lies further beyond that. SALEEK: (serious) The wolf is with me. Now let's get these bastards... RANDAL: Randal makes his way towards the northern exit, and looks about for any creatures in the room ahead. As he does so, he whispers back to the others.
"*(whispering)* “Did ye have any luck in findin’ the purpose o’ this place. I’d almost teased some truth out o’ our friends here” *(he gestures to the fallen blacksashes)* “but our little skirmish broke up th’ conversation.” SALEEK: "Believe it or not, I found some sort of ancient city underneath all this..." RANDAL: (suprised) "Beneath Ardrest? Perchance they took th’ missing child below there!" SALEEK: "True... Although we haven't yet checked the main house, do you think we should investigate the ruins first?." With light, you can make out the northern room: haphazardly stacked crates bearing a wide variety of logos painted on them. To the west is an open portcullis with a pair of carts just barely visible. To the east there is a set of heavy wooden double doors set into the white stone of the walls.
Also there are two dead or dying men laying on the ground.
By contrast the ruins Saleek spoke of are off a western open of the large hall you all just fought the Blacksashes in. RINI: "I recognize the workmanship of those stairs as work of sub-group of the Netherese Empire called the Ilyrinar. It is said they used magic from the other planes and could form massive cities by growing them out of rock. They were a very powerful group of magic users."
"kenris and I also heard the blacksashes talking about a woman... Perhaps she is in their hideout?" SALEEK: "Worth a check..." Admoria, you would remember you were led out from somewhere inside those eastern doors. In fact give me an intelligence check.
Admoira makes an Intelligence check: [[1d20]]=11
Admoira your time in captivity with the Blacksashes was not particularly kind, they treated you more like a unique animal than a person. Although one they felt was worth money. So while you have a vague memory of what might be beyond those doors its not enough to give directions or anything. RANDAL: Randal enters and begins checking the men on the ground for their possessions
"“And what ‘bout their product, th’ ale? They seemed to be sayin’ there was ‘ special about th’ ones they were shipping off, like they were different t’ th’ ones they’d bin gettin drunk on. I got a hold o’ some in my waterskin. Do any of ye have experience with these things?”" Between the 5 bodies in both rooms you can pick up: 34cp, 10ep, 29sp. Also 4 clubs, a dagger, and a shortsword that are in serviceable condition RINI: If it is magical I could identify it
Rini sits down, pulls out his spell book and begins ritual carrying identify
"I'll need ten minutes..." You take the time to cast your spell. The ale is not magical.
What is eveyone else doing at the time? RANDAL: Randal is inspecting the blade of the shortsword. He gives it a few practice swings away from the other party members, as to avoid hitting them on accident.
*(Randal holds up a club)* “D’ any of ye have use fer a blunt piece of wood?” KENRIS: "I prefer this blunt piece of steel, what a crude weapon. Why would anyone use this?"
"Is anyone hurt? and how about that ale. is it any good or is this just a front for a illegal operation?" SALEEK: Saleek salvages what arrows he can. KENRIS: "Saleek care to introduce your companion?" SALEEK: "This admoira, she has decided to join us." KENRIS: "Well met then Admoira, lets have the pleasantries in a later state. Is there anything that Rini and my self need to know as we were outside when al this transpired." SALEEK: "There is some sort of ancient city beneath all this, we are preparing to head there, as we believe it would provide a decent hiding place." KENRIS: "Ancient city you say. Well im in always up for some delving and looting..." SALEEK: Saleek chuckles for the first time in a long time.
(cheerful) "Good to have you, my friend." Randal's new sword is a simple, unadorned piece of metal, but good for stabbing. Saleek per the rules you can recover half your arrows searching so that's 3 if I recall correctly. (I have not been watching ammo closely honestly.) SALEEK: Saleek turns and presses forward. ADMOIRA: The wolf, who has been lounging with a bored look, stands to stretch and yawn before following after Saleek. KENRIS: "Those Ruins are not going anywhere soon. A closed door always has secrets to be opened.... so whats keeping us?" RINI: "As much as I am interested in exploring these ruins, I suppose saving a life is more important?" KENRIS: "Sometimes it depends of the benefit but yes in this case lets try to save a life if possible"
"Maybe the wolf can judge what door we need to take" ADMOIRA: "The large wolf nods to Kenris, then leads the way back through the doors she can recall." This storage room is not lit, but Saleek did light a torch. Most of the Blacksashes were human and used lanterns to see in the dark.
The large wolf pads up to the door. It is not locked and swings easily on its hinges. Inside is a small 15 foot corridor with an archway at the end. Give me a perception check Admoira. Admoira rolls perception: [[1d20+Perception (Wis)]]=4+5=9
Admoira rolls the other die: [[1d20+Perception (Wis)]]=7+5=12 Beyond the arch is a small 15x15 room. A small lantern hangs from the ceiling and there is another wooden door in the north wall. Compared to the last few chambers, these wall are definitely recent and are made of mostly crude bricks. You can tell there are more humanoids within, a goodly number and they have been living in the place for a while. It smells musty.
Can you guys give me a marching order as you head inside? RINI: Rini is probably near the back. ADMOIRA: Thinking I'm near the front, if not leading. Might need someone with opposable thumbs to open doors for me, though. KENRIS: Ill spearhead The thing ill Be in The front RANDAL: Probably behind Rini. I’m not a tank, but I’d be more able to take a hit if something came from behind (not that we’re expecting that). That said, almost everyone else has better perception than me SALEEK: I would say I'm near the front, probably after kenris. Sounds good. You all file into the hall and the small room beyond. It is a unadorned room save for a lantern and a door. Rini rolls investigation check [[1d20+Investigation (Int)]]=20+6=26 Something did not sit right about this room to Rini and sure enough, with 10 minutes of searching, he can identify a couple irregularities.
The lantern seems designed to shed as little light up to the ceiling as possible, with your own light you can make out several holes in the room's ceiling. Additionally you can identify a raised plate in the floor just in front of the room's northern door. The room is almost definitely trapped.
Also Rini you notice there is a section of the south eastern corner where the mortar seems slightly different from the rest of the walls. There is a small gap, about the width of a dagger blade running floor to ceiling.
You think the wall could be moved. RINI: "Careful of that pressure plate. Perhaps clear the room and I can use mage hand to set off the trap?" Just a friendly DM reminder: Varian is with you. Just ask him if you want him to do rogue stuff. VARIAN: "If you think I should take a look at it?" RINI: "Yes. I suppose disabling the trap could be safer." VARIAN: Varian uses his thieves tools [[1d20+5]]=19+5=24
Deftly disables the pressure plate in front of the door, making the trap harmless. ADMOIRA: The wolf watches closely, fascinated by Varian's work.
(Admiring) "Woof" RINI: "Shall we check that hidden door then?" SALEEK: "Wait, traps...Varian, do you mind..." KENRIS: "if we need light i can provide?" Varian will investigate the corner for traps. [[1d20 + Investigation (Int)]]=20+6=26 The hidden door is not trapped. He is able to use his dagger to release the catch on the other side and swing the door on hidden hinges without a noise. Beyond the door is a small corridor heading east, it's walls made of brick, wood, and dirt. SALEEK: Saleek moves forward. ADMOIRA: "The wolf falls into close step with him." RANDAL: "Nice job!"
Randal enters his previous marching position with the rest of the party. The small passage continues east about another 40 feet. Shortly after where you surmise that the eastern wall of the room you just left ended, the wall to your north drops away, revealing another room 10 feet below you to the north. There is a door in its northern wall and a ladder at the southern edge leading up to the ledge you are on. Several crossbows are propped against the wall near you.
There is a door set into the south of the ladder. STEALTH
Randal rolls stealth [[1d20 + Stealth (Dex)]]=6+4=10
Rini rolls stealth [[1d20 + Stealth (Dex)]]=12+1=13
Admoira rolls dire wolf stealth [[1d20 + 4]]=9+4=13
SALEEK: Saleek rolls stealth [[1d20 + Stealth (Dex)]]=15+6=21 Collectively your stealth rolls are good enough. From the door to the south comes a dim light. You can hear faint noises through the door of several men talking in low hushed voices although you cannot quite make out what they are saying. ADMOIRA: Admoira uses her keen senses to try to listen in on their conversation: [[2d20k1+Perception (Wis)]]=19,13+5=24 SALEEK: Saleek grabs two darts from his belt, and crouches down. The conversation is in low whispers, but seems to be revolving around whether one of the speakers actually saw something he thought he saw or not. Both of the voices sound impatient. Saleek Closes his eyes and listens. [[1d20+Perception (Wis)]]=11+4=15 BLACKSASH: (annoyed) "I told yous something was coming but if you don't buy it, why don't you go look for yourself!? Something's out in the dark and its gonna get ya!" KENRIS: (brooding) "are these the ones who attacked you?" he said in a low voice. SALEEK: (curious) "in whispered tones: randal, rini...are either one of you able to turn someone invisible...i have an idea." RINI: "Unfortunately I have not learned that spell yet..." ADMOIRA: The wolf cocks her head to the side, looking inquisitively at Saleek. SALEEK: "Hm, in that case, Varian, I trust you to get in there, and get on the opposite side of them. Admoira, go with him, we'll need you to be as quiet as possible.
Hopefully we can bypass them completely, if we can't, then I trust Varian to signal us to attack. And when he does, well have them between us.
If it comes down to a fight... Leave one alive..." KENRIS: in whispered tones
"i can run a distraction." Varian (in NPC mode) would listen at the door and indicate that there are both people inside and lights. He can try and sneak around but it will be difficult. SALEEK: "Hm, perhaps it's best we rush in… Everyone got their brave face on?" ADMOIRA: The wolf grins at Saleek. KENRIS: I stride in like I own the place with a scowl on my face and a half maniacal grin RINI: Rini prepares himself by readying a firebolt at the first enemy he sees… RANDAL: Concealed within his clothing, Randal clutches the hilt of the shortsword that was taken from the blacksash in one hand, while keeping his other near to the hidden dagger in his pocket.
”Its fer if th’ plan goes south” he tells himself You all push through the doorway into the to room. It is a fairly large common room, lit by lanterns hanging from the rafters. The walls are made of dirt and wooden supports. There are a pair of long tables set in the middle of the room. Four men at seated at one, an ignored cardgame between them. Two other men are standing 10 paces from the door, they look like you've interrupted them. BLACKSASH FIGHTER: (confident) "Hmm and just who are you lot? *The man says, his hand going to the blade at his side.*" RINI: Rini points his finger at the Blacksash Fighter and hurls a mote of fire toward the man… KENRIS: "I was once a believer in light and all that is good in the world. Now I'm not so sure any longer, im here to watch something burn. Preferable you" SALEEK: Saleek says nothing, and shoots at the guy who addressed them. [[1d20+8]]=3+8=11 Rini give me a spell attack roll and everyone give me initiative please. INITIATIVE:
Saleek rolls [[2d20D1+Initiative]]=12,6+6=18
Randal rolls initiative [[1d20 +Initiative]]=12+2=14
Kenris rolls initiative [[1d20 +Initiative]]=13+0=13
Varian rolls initiative [[1d20 +Initiative]]=6+1=7
Rini rolls initiative [[1d20 +Initiative]]=18+1=19
Admoira rolls initiative [[1d20 +Initiative]]=7+2=9
Blacksash Fighter rolls initiative [[1d20]]=18 Rini rolls [[1d20+6]]=4+6=10 to hit dealing [[1d10]]=5 fire damage The party forces open the door, bursting into the room. Their initial shots going wide in the confusion. The man who spoke before grins as he draws a large curved blade from his side. He shouts out to his men, which jump to their feet, spilling the contents of their card game. BLACKSASH FIGHTER: (confident) "Good, I was itching for a proper fight! Get 'em, Boys!" Rini and Saleek and react fastest. There is a Blacksash with a curved sword near you and another drawing a shortsword. There are 4 more at the table near the rear of the room. SALEEK: Saleek notches two arrows and looks for the guy who seems to be in charge, his eye glow, slightly as he moves his hunters mark to new prey.
Shoots two arrows [[1d20+8]]=2+8=10 + [[1d20+8]]=10+8=18
Second arrow finds it's Mark (?) [[2d8+1d6+6]]
Saleek rolls [[2d8+1d6+6]]=3+4+3+6=16 The first arrow glances off a metal plate in the man's leathers, while the second pierces into his shoulder. He grunts in pain. The ceilings in the room are dug out of the dirt and rock, roughly 13 to 15 feet high at best. SALEEK: Saleek hovers 10ft off the ground, creating a light breeze as he does so.
(confident) "Rini! Randal! Light em up!" That brings up Rini next. The man with the scimitar is injured by Saleek's arrow. The man next to him is unhurt. And the 4 others are along the south side of the room going for their weapons. RINI: Hurls a fire bolt at the injured man. [[1d20+6]]4+6=10 to hit; [[1d10]]=10 for damage The wounded fighter slaps the flame aside with his sword before charging forward, swinging his curved blade at Kenris. Blacksash Fighter attacks: [[1d20+5]]=7+5=12, [[1d20 +5]]=11+5=16, [[1d20 +5]]=12+5=17
Blacksash Swordsman attacks: [[1d20+4]]=7+4=11, [[1d20+4]]=6+4=10
Blacksash Swordsman ranged attack [[1d20+4]]=12+4=16, [[1d6]]=4
Blacksash Thug ranged attack [[1d20+4]]=2+4=6, [[1d6]]=6
GM rolls [[1d6]]=5
Blacksash Thug ranged attack [[1d20+4]]=15+4=19, [[1d6]]=3
Blacksash Thug ranged attack [[1d20+4]]=5+4=9, [[1d6]]=3
Blacksash Thug rolls [[1d10]]=7 In a largely impotent show of force, the two men nearest the door rush as Kenris, but their blades are unable to make it past his shield and thick armor. As they harry him a volley of crossbow bolts come from the rear of the room. There is the sound of 3 of them impacting the walls.
The fourth Kenris can look down and see the metal arrow lodged firmly in his thigh. He takes 7 points of piercing damage.
The rest of the party is up now. There are a total of six Blacksashes, 2 close and 4 towards the back of the room.
For the sake of easy targeting: near you all are the fighter and swordsman A, in the back of the room swordsman B and thugs A, B, C. RANDAL: Randal hastily draws his new weapons as the blades of the enemy make futile attempts on his armoured ally. With his shortsword and dagger, he makes for the blacksash fighter.
Randal rolls [[1d20+4]]=15+4=19 to hit with his shortsword, dealing [[1d6+2]]=4+2=6 damage on a hit. With his dagger, he rolls [[1d20+4]]=7+4=11 to hit, dealing [[1d4+2]]=1+2=3 damage on a hit. KENRIS: What you see is that darkness envelops Kenris and is sucked towards his eyes which turn a impossible black. There is a audible ripping sound as Bony skeletal protrusions form from the back of the armor. Those protrusions form what appears to be wings. a twisted reminder of his fall from grace. At this point I'll say that Kenris having rushed into the room, in engaged in a melee with the fighter and a swordsman. Also Randal is next to him. KENRIS: Kenris Makes eye contact to the one who was so brass to ask all these questions. He says "let me show you what it is to fall." with a manical Grin. Blacksash fighter rolls CHA save [[1d20 + CHA Save]]=14+0=14
Blacksash swordsman rolls CHA save [[1d20 + CHA Save]]=3+3=6 Randal catches the fighter with hit shortsword, giving him a cut across his arm, the dagger however fails to penetrate his armor. Randal rolls CHA save [[1d20+CHA Save]]=12+5=17
It is freaky to see bone wings erupt from Kenris, but you're in a fight and he's a friend so it's something to deal with later. RINI: Rini puts his hands together and a cone of flame shoot forth towards the fighter and swordsman (a) sculptinn around Kenris and Randal
Rini Causes [[3d6]]=1+6+6=13 fire damage on a failed throw or half as much on a success ADMOIRA: Admoira uses her bonus action to use her [Hidden Step] ability, and the Dire Wolf turns invisible. She then runs out to attack the crossbow wielders in the back of the room, choosing one where she can threaten the others nearby to spoil their aim at her companions.
Admoira suddenly appears out of stealth, biting at one of the crossbow thugs and trying to take him to the ground: [[2d20k1+5]]=7,9+5=14 possibly dealing [[2d6+3]]1+1+3=5 piercing damage and forcing the man to make a DC 13 STR save or be taken to the ground. Woof! Blacksash thug STR save: [[1d20 + STR Save]]=3+2=5 The large wolf seems to appear out of nowhere and pounces on the man, who is knocked to the ground by the attack. Blacksash swordsman Dex save: [[1d20 + DEX Save]]=14+2=16
Blacksash Fighter Dex save: [[1d20 + DEX Save]]=20+4=24 Rini steps around the melee, taking his time to line up his spell so that it doesn't hit his allies. That delay gives the two Blacksashes just enough time to duck out of the way of the worst of the flames, even though they are both still burned. VARIAN: Varian attempts to hide: [[1d20 +Stealth (Dex)]]=10+5=15 Dicking behind some of the room's furniture, Varian attempts to hit one of the men in the back with an arrow.
Varian rolls [[1d20+3]]=12+3=15
Varian rolls [[1d6+1]]=4+1=5
The arrow strikes the rear swordsman, dealing 5 points of piercing damage. It's now the top of round 2. Rini has already acted. Saleek you are up. There are still 6 Blacksash in the room. 1 fighter and 1 swordsman are in the melee group. 1 swordsman and 3 thugs are in the back with Admoira. SALEEK: Shoots his prey [[1d20+8]]=9+8=17
Arrow Pierce's the marked for [[1d8+1d6+6]]=2+4+6=12 The arrow pierces into the fighter's side. He screams in pain, and it bleeding from the wound, but still able to fight. Blacksash Fighter Attacks: [[1d20 +5]]=16+5=21, [[1d20 +5]]=18+5=23, [[1d20 +5]]=9+5=14
Blacksash Fighter rolls [[2d6+6]]=3+4+6=13 The heavily armed man swings his scimitar slipping just one Kenris's shield, giving him a total of 13 slashing damage. With his off hand he tries to stab with his dagger, but is unable to pierce the chainmail. Blacksash swordsman Attacks: [[1d20 +4]]=1+4=5, [[1d20 +4]]=18+4=22
Blacksash swordsman Attacks: [[1d20 +4]]=9+4=13, [[1d6]]=6
Blacksash thug Attacks: [[2d20k1+4]]=14,9+4=18
Blacksash thug Attacks: [[2d20k1+4]]=12,7+4=16
Blacksash thug Attacks: [[2d20k1+4]]=13,14+4=18 The swordsman in the melee backs away from Kenris and fires his hand crossbow but the shot goes wide. The other one takes cover behind the table and attempts to shot Admoira but also misses.
Of the 3 thugs one charges into the melee while the other attempts to beat the wolf off his struggling friend. Blacksash thug Hits Randal with an 18 for [[1d6+2]]=3+2=5 bludgeoning.
Blacksash thug Hits Admoira with an 16 for [[1d6+2]]=6+2=8 bludgeoning.
Blacksash thug Hits Admoira with an 17 for [[1d6+2]]=4+2=6 bludgeoning. That's the end of the enemy's turn. Admoria, Kenris, Randal and Varian are up. RANDAL: Clutching the area where the Blacksash slammed his club into him, Randal brings his new shortsword swiftly across the thug’s torso, then lunges forward - dagger in hand.
Randal rolls [[1d20+4]]=20+4=24 to hit with shortsword, dealing [[1d6+2]]=4+2=6 damage, then rolls [[1d20+4]]=18+4=22 with his dagger, dealing [[1d4+2]]=2+2=4 damage
Randal rerolls damage dice on the shortsword, rolling [[1d6]]=3 to add to the damage The thug grunts in pain, your shortsword piercing deep into his chest with your dagger finds his side. He stumbles a little in the face of the unexpected assault. ADMOIRA: The Dire Wolf snaps at the men attacking her, driving them back slightly so she can again savage the prone man.
Admoira tries biting the man: [[2d20k1+5]]=7,6+5=12, possibly dealing [[2d6+3]]=2+1+3=6 piercing damage. The Blacksash screams out as the wolf's fangs dig deep into his shoulder. VARIAN: Varian will circle around, and attempt to stab the thug fighting Randal in the side.
Varian attack: [[1d20+3]]=12+3=15 for [[1d8+1+2d6]]=7+4+2+1=14 damage The thug screams out, clutching at his neck, as blood seeps through his fingers and he slumps to the ground.
That leaves Kenris up for the round. KENRIS: Ill use my bonus action to use Wrathful Smite Granting me extra 1d6 if the hit lands. if i miss ill keep the smite until i hit with a maximum of 1 minute.
Kenris Swings to hit [[1d20 +5]]=8+5=13 With his warhammer for [[1d8 +3 + 1d6]]=8+2+3=13 Blacksash fighter wis save: [[1d20 + WIS Save]]=1+2=3 Kenris hammer impacts solidly in the man's gut, knocking the wind out of him. The Blacksash looked toward Kenris with a look of horror in his eyes.
That brings us to the top of the 3rd round. Saleek and Rini will go, then the Blacksashes. There are 5 Blacksashes remaining in the fight: the fighter in melee with Kenris. 2 swordsmen in the southwest corner of the room. 2 thugs fighting Admoira in the south east. RINI: Seeing Admoira with a blacksash's throat in its mouth, Rini takes aim at the thug behind as a streak of fire bursts out of his finger…
Rini casts firebolt at the thug; [[1d20+6]]=16+6=22 to hit; [[1d10]]=2 fire damage on a hit The thug is startled in his attempts to beat the wolf off his companion as there is suddenly a burst of fire I his face.
That leaves Saleek up, then the Blacksashes. SALEEK: Continues attacking his marked for [[1d20+8]]=14+8=22
Saleek Shoots an arrow, dead center into his foes chest [[1d8+1d6+6]]=4+1+6 The Blacksash Fighter grunts in pain, seeing the arrow in his chest and the fighting visage of Kenris, he cluctches his wounded chest turns to run.
Kenris and Randal will both get attacks of opportunity as he bolts. Blacksash swordsman Attempts to duck out of sight [[1d20+Stealth (Dex)]]=15+4=19
Blacksash swordsman Fires his hand crossbow [[1d20+4]]=11+4=15 at [[1d6]]=5
Blacksash swordsman Hits Rini with a 15 for [[1d6+2]]=1+2=3 piercing damage.
The standing thug attempts to hit Admoira [[2d20k1 +4]]=2,18+4=22
Blacksash thug rolls [[1d6+2]]=4+2=6 OPERTUNITY ATTACK
Randal rolls [[1d20 +4]]=1+4=5
Kenris rolls [[1d20 +5]]=6+5=11
The fighter's wobbling is just unpredictable enough to make your attacks miss. He'll limp back and hold his blade up defensively.
Of the two swordsmen, one ducks behind an overturned table and you lose sight of him. The other fires a crossbow at Rini, the bolt striking him for 3 points of damage. The other thugs swings at Admoira again, connecting with a solid blow for 6 bludgeoning damage.
Now it is the rest of the party's turn: Randal, Kenris, Admoira, and Varian. RANDAL: Randal produces a crossbow and fires it at the blacksash as he attempts his escape, rolling [[1d20+4]]=13+4=17 to hit, and dealing [[1d8+2]]=6+2=8 on a hit. KENRIS: Kenris will heal him self for 10 point using lay on hands The Blacksash Fighter makes a break for it, but then Randal's bolt lodged solidly into his back. He has a confused look as he reaches for the bolt before collapsing face first onto the ground. ADMOIRA: Admoira shrugs off the blows from the nearby thug and tries finishing off the prone man at her feet: [[2d20k1+5]]=7,13+5=18, hopefully dealing [[2d6+3]]=5+3+3=11 piercing damage. Admoira's jaws dig deep into the man's shoulder. He screams in pain, he's looking badly hurt. VARIAN: Varian moves up and artacks the barely injured thug fighting the wolf. [[1d20 +3]]=1+3=4 for [[1d8+1+2d6]]=1+1+5+2=9
Varian Misses horribly, dropping his rapier in the process. That will end the round. It's the start of the 4th round. Saleek and Rini are up. There are 2 thugs fighting Admoira in one corner and a swordsman visible in the opposite corner. SALEEK: Saleek whispers an incantation, as he moves his hunters mark to a new foe.
Saleek Points his bow at one of the thugs in melee with admoira [[1d20+8]]=15+8=23
The arrow finds it's Mark [[1d8+1d6+6]]=5+1+6=12 I'll say you attacked the one Rini just threw fire at (as the other is prone and you'd have disadvantage). The arrow strikes him solidly in his meaty thigh, he grunts in pain but is still able to stand. KENRIS: Kenris Swings to hit [[1d20 +5]]=12+5=17 With his warhammer for possibly [[1d8 +3 ] ]=7+3=10 Bludgeoning damage RINI: Rini looks towards the two fighting Admoira, pulls out a pinch on sand, speaks an incantation and casts sleep.
Sleep spell affect [[5d8]]=5+8+5+1+4=23 hit points The thug you had previously blasted with fire wobbles and falls to the floor asleep. RINI: "Well I was hoping for more but at least we have one alive if we need him" Blacksash thug tries to beat off the wolf: [[2d20kl1+4]]=13,12+4=16
Blacksash thug rolls [[1d6+2]]=3+2=5
Blacksash swordsman fires an arrow at a party member [[1d20+2]]=1+2=3, [[1d6]]=3 As the one thug falls unconscious, his friend beats against Admoira with his mace, dealing 5 points of damage. The swordman's arrow lurches from his crossbow with a unhealthy sounding lurch.
Kenris charges forward at the Blacksash as he attempts to fix his crossbow. Smashing his hammer deep into the unsuspecting man's gut.
Randal, Admoira and Varian are still up. There is 1 unconscious thug, 1 badly injured thug, and a swordsman left. ADMOIRA: The large she-wolf snaps her jaws at the prone man beneath her, and then places her jaws gently on the man's neck. She waits, seeing if he will take the hint and surrender. RANDAL: Randal is off after the swordsman, drawing his melee weapons again during his run, which culminates in two quick slashes to his target.
Randal rolls [[1d20+4]]=5+4=9 to hit with shortsword, dealing [[1d6+2]]=6+2=8 damage on a hit, and [[1d20+4]]=2+4=6 to hit with his dagger, dealing [[1d4+2]]=4+2=6 damage on a hit. VARIAN: Varian rushes the remaining swordsman with his rapier. [[1d20+3]]=10+3=13
Varian rolls [[1d8+2d6+1]]=1+2+1+1=5 The remaining swordsman is able to duck and weave away from Randal's blades, but that leaves him wide open for Varian.
This will be the top of the 5th round. Saleek and Rini go first, followed by the remain thug and swordsman. One of the men is still unconscious. DM rolls [[1d20]]=8
DM rolls [[1d20]]=8
RINI: Rini will focus his attention to the swordsman, swirl his staff and launch at firebolt from the crystal affixed to the end towards the blacksash…
Firebolt to hit [[1d20+6]]=9+6=15; for [[1d10]]=5 fire damage With the fight dying down you can take in a bit more of the room. It is a fairly large room with wood and dirt walls lit by lanterns in the ceiling. There are exits to the east and south, along with a door set into the western wall.
Admoria is in the southeastern corner along with 2 Blacksashes, one unconscious, one in her jaws. Kenris, Varian, and Randal are near the southwestern corner fighting another Blacksash. You and Rini are more to the northern edge of the room at range.
Rini's firebolt strike the engaged swordsman, he is looking haggard battling so many foes. SALEEK: Shoots the thug in admoiras jaws [[1d20+8]]=3+8=11
The arrow finds it's Mark [[1d8+1d6+6]]=1+6+6=13 If the thug that Admoira was holding down would have given up the fight or not will never be known now, as Saleek's arrow lodges deep in his chest. He coughs up blood and lays still.
Seeing all of his companions beaten or incapacitated, the final swordsman holds up his hand and drops his blade. BLACKSASH SWORDSMAN: (panting) "Fine... Fine, I yield!" ADMOIRA: The large wolf blurs back into the shape of a large Firbolg girl, who kneels without a word and begins tying up the sleeping thug after tossing his weapon away. RINI: "Interesting. A firbolg..." GM WHISPER TO ADMOIRA: With more time to look around the room. You believe that you were held behind the door to the west while you were kept prisoner down here. RINI: Rini catches himself staring while she ties the thug up and quickly looks down at his feet. ADMOIRA: The Firbolg girl appears to be around 7'5" and probably weighs nearly 230 lbs. She is covered in soft, bluish fur and has a messy shock of white hair, hanging down to around her waist. She keeps it mostly under a shawl, and wears a tattered dress that looks to have been patched many times with a variety of mismatched cloth. Her eyes are large and golden, though they are reddened as if she had been weeping a short time ago. She ties the man with a skilled hand, but upon noticing she is being watched, her movements become much more rushed and flustered, and she needs to re-tie a couple knots.
After ensuring the captive is bound securely, Admoira pulls off his black sash. She holds it to a seam that seems about to fray apart, checking its length before nodding and shoving the cloth into her bag. She then stands and grips her staff, turning and smiling meekly to the others.
(anxious) "I've bound him, he shan't be a problem now."
She gives a polite nod to Rini, Randal and Kenris.
(anxious) "I greet you, friends. Saleek and Varian freed me from some of these rogues further inside. I am assisting them as thanks." RINI: "Well. Thank you for your assistance. Now, perhaps there is something we can learn from these captives. Do they in fact have anything to do with the missing child? Or what deal do they have with the Red Wizards?" SALEEK: saleek puts his bow around his body, and collects some of his arrows from the battlefield. he eventually makes his way to the blacksash who has given up.
(detached) "hold him."
he tells the companions closest to the thug, and in one swift motion, draws both his shortswords. he places one at the throat of the thug, and the other at his belly.
(angry) "***tell me, # Everything.***" BLACKSASH: (tense) "Hey look, I'm just paid to mind the operation. Things were too hot in Daggerford, so my friend says lay low in Ardrest, do some small time shit... The money ain't worth my life." Blacksash rolls [[1d20+5]]=10+5=15 RINI: "And what of these red wizards? Why are they here with you?" BLACKSASH: "*He gives a little shrug.* I've seen a few come by. I'm hardly responsible for who the boss sells to." RINI: "And what is it you selling?" KENRIS: "More exactly who is this "boss" " SALEEK: (threatening) "Where are you keeping the prisoners, and *where* is your boss..." BLACKSASH: "Well, yea, that's a lot of questions. But sure. As for what moves through here... well, I assume you saw the crates. The boss will move most anything he can make a profit on and as for who he is... Well, you know who's farm you're under, right? *He'll incline his head to the south passage.* His office is down that way, last door on the left." SALEEK: (threatening) "Prisoners." BLACKSASH: Points to the east. Rini insight check [[1d20+Insight (Wis)]]=5+2=7 You believe him as much as you'd believe any thief. RANDAL: (detached) "*aside to the others* “ Not exactly bein’ specific, is he? If ‘is details aren’t good enough, I gots an enchantment t’ make ‘im more talkative.”" Admoira sits nearby, listening quietly to the man: [[1d20+Insight (Wis)]]=7+5=12 As best you can tell, comparing it to your spotty experience in these rooms, Admoira, you do not detect any falsehood. RINI: "Well. Safe to say we should be careful moving forward. Shall we deal with the boys first? Or free the prisoners?"
"Either way, it might be prudent to take a short rest before moving forward." ADMOIRA: (pensive) "I agree, a rest would be most welcome. As far as what to do, I would suggest we take on the Blacksashes and their leader, as it would be inopportune to be busy with hostages if they decide to ambush us." The room you are all in has 4 exits: north the way you came, a closed door to the west, and tunnels leading east and south.
There are several chairs around the room, you could all easily take a break for about an hour here to allow some recovery. SALEEK: Saleek roll [[1d20+Insight (Wis)]]=17+2=19
(threatening) "i say we finally take off this organizations head." ADMOIRA: "Admoira nods, then gestures to the two captives."
(curious) "And what of them?" SALEEK: (brooding) "tie them up, gag them, knock em out. well let the authorities have them after this is done...my concern is finding the boy, and stopping whatever these people seem to be doing to the town." RANDAL: "“No rope have I. Knockin’ out I can do, though. Them blacksashes sure do carry a lot o’ clubs.”" Randal wields the blunted wood uncomfortably and attempts to strike the blacksashes on their heads. Well, he's not really in a position to dodge... so give me a strength check.
Randal rolls his abysmal strength, for a total of [[1d20-1]]=11-1=10
Blacksash Swordsman rolls [[1d20]] = 4
Well, he rolled even worse. The man shoots you a momentarily look as if he is surprised just annoyed before his eyes roll back in his head and he falls to the ground unconscious. RANDAL: "“Do any of ye have rope handy?”" ADMOIRA: Admoira quickly restrains the man with the rest of her rope, then checks his vitals before nodding to the others and standing. The two unconscious Blacksashes are easy to restrain. Were you all taking the time for that short rest then? ADMOIRA: Admoira drags the two men out of the way and situates them a little more comfortably before huddling down in a corner to rest. She pulls the black sash out of her pack, along with some thread and needle, and starts sewing the cloth to cover the tear in her dress. SALEEK: Aside from the sash, are they wearing any other uniform or are they wearing all sorts of clothing? RINI: Can we also search them for any valuables or items? Sure someone give me an investigation roll. Rini rolls [[1d20+Investigation (Int)]]=8+6=14 Rini, taking the time to look around, you find the following: around the overturned table there are scattered coins totalling 68 gold, 372 silver, and 983 copper.
Chains and manacles, hang outside the west door. There is a heavy bar across this side of the door frame. As far as the Blacksashes' gear goes. None of it is uniform, they appear more as a mercenary group than a formal force. The black sash is the only identifying mark. You do find a serviceable scimitar on the body of the fighter and 2 clubs.
You all take the hour or so to recover, treat your wounds, and gather the loot. All while keep watch on the rooms entrances. SALEEK: Saleek walks over to one of the bodies, removing a black dash and tying it around his waist.
"This might help us blend in, help us get the drop on them." So anyone using hit dice or anything else go ahead and make your rolls and mark it off. And then where would you all be heading when you leave this room? RECOVERY
Rini rolls [[1d6+3]] = 6+3=9
Randal recovers [[1d8+2]]=8+2=10 hit points from the short rest RANDAL: Randal checks whether or he western door is locked. ADMOIRA: Admoira picks up the recovered scimitar and makes a couple test flourishes before tucking it into a strap on her backpack. She then tightens her grip on her staff before following Randal to the doors. The door is barred with a heavy piece of wood set into hooks on the frame, but not locked. RINI: Their leader is to the south. Perhaps there is a reason this for is barred so heavily? SALEEK: Saleek grabs the piece of wood, and begins to lift. Behind the door is a sort of natural stone crevice, it leads back about 20 feet. Iron rings have been unevenly set into the walls. Several chains lie on the ground.
Admoira this room would be familiar to you from the time you spent in captivity ADMOIRA: Admoira steps back, muttering a curse in Giant under her breath.
(angry) "This is where they held us..."
DM WHISPER TO ADMOIRA: You recall: you were probably held in that space for a few days. There were several young humans with you, mostly women, and they would eventually be taken out of the holding room and taken somewhere else.
(angry) "I was held captive here with several young humans, mostly girls. The Blacksashes would eventually come and take them somewhere else. I know not where..." SALEEK: (confident) "well find them, admoira, no one will ever chain you up again. you have my word." KENRIS: "You say we do you mean fellow furbolg? Why would such a thing be done??" ADMOIRA: "Admoira blinks back tears and sniffles, smiling at the others."
(relieved) "Thank you. Your kind words bring me great comfort."
(desperate) "I just fear for the young ones taken. I hope we are not too late the save them from a terrible fate..." SALEEK: (tense) "they better pray to all the gods there ever were or ever will be, that not a single hair has been harmed.
otherwise, ill repay them, hundreds of times over..." RINI: "This is unfortunate. Did you happen to get the names of these fellow captives?"
(curious) "Was there a halfling child as well?" DM WHISPER TO ADMOIRA: You can recall human and dwarven girls, no halflings. ADMOIRA: Admoira frowns apologetically and shakes her head.
(apologetic) "I recall no Halflings, at least where I was held. I am sorry." RANDAL: (brooding) "“This child’s bein’ an elusive one, all right. I fear we still got nought t’ show t’ her grievin’ parents.”" RINI: (annoyed) "Yes. This is proving most frustrating. It is time for some answers to this mystery. Through the south door then?" SALEEK: "Sounds good to me." KENRIS: "Let's shake this foundation to the core" ADMOIRA: Admoira nods grimly and falls in behind the others.
Continued in 3.5: Under the Underbarrel: the Boss
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