Mission Impossible - Familiars!

 

10th of Planting

The Beta team relax, study and prepare at the Jade Sanctuary. Studying new spells, discussing tactics, preparing gear and relaxing in the baths, pool and sauna.

Division of gained magic items takes place..

Queue the Mission Impossible music..

Aerial View

The party arrives in the area by carriage, and go into the Golden Bloom Tavern. An older pub beams and interior are covered in soot and smoke. Cozy. The party acquires a booth that is partially outside and in. Allowing a perfect view of the mansion. A rotund dwarf approaches and the party orders the Monastery Crescent wine as well as some water for some.

Vencer has summoned his flock of familiars (2 spiders and a seagull to carry them) and Faust sends off his invisible imp familiar to do the recon.

2nd Floor

1st Floor

Having done some excellent recon and scouting, as well as having a number of glasses of wine at the tavern, the party has an excellent map now of the building.

The party then returns to the Jade Sanctuary. Discussing and getting some supplies and clothing on the way and other needs for the upcoming event. Vencer will be attending as a disguised merchant with an invitation, supplied by V. As well as a poison and sleeping potions.

Faust visits the library at the Jade Sanctuary and has some philosophical and physiological conversation with a drow - Saran -  also staying at the Sanctuary. Faust tries to acquire knowledge for using poison and magic against the drow.. he gleans some minimal knowledge.

The party hears of a hanging coming up at midnight - 3 young Black Runes - at this, Irakul recalls back to his fortune being told (Blog entry). The party takes a carriage  - with a large bribe to get out the gates to the event. The party is surprised to see Eldeth - the 1/2ling they had rescued and was going to meet with them once they leave again. Heavily bruised and standing with the young men, the rest in ill-fitting Black Rune armour.

The party uses some persuasion with a Githyanki and drow watching the event as well as bartering to be able 'acquire' Eldeth as a slave. Vencer uses his persuasive skills and deception to good effect to seal the deal.

While this is going on, Irakul feels similar to have transported to be the executioner and takes the role. He tightens the ropes around the necks of the two older boys and then does the hanging.

After the execution.. the party returns in the carriage, the goliath is near comatose but does come back to his senses part way back on the ride. Irakul thinks back again to the fortune being told to him. He feels now though able to bring forth some magic in the form of a noose..

[Echo Noose - spectral misty noose goes around a creature's neck.  Mute another creature/ once per day. DC:??]

It is close to 2 bells in the morn.. and the party rests.. 

The next morn, a rainy day in Rastor and final preparations for the heist.

The Heist - Map

The Commander's Abode

Vencer's owl and Fausts' 'raven' do some aerial recon.
 

The Jade Sanctuary

8th of Planting

The party now much smaller, can all fit in the wagon - also with the large keg hidden a day’s travel outside of the town. As the warhorse clops along the street, the group see  bustling and busy streets, folks - primarily dwarves with full beards on both males and some females, but as well a large variety of races and more present - going about their business. It seems the war is a far off discussion or memory.. except for the combined patrols of Rastor city guards accompanied by 2-3 drow and rarely - a githyanki.

Notably Eldeth was no longer with the group. The female hobbit had slipped away off the wagon in the throngs at the gate. Not entering the town or being confronted by the guards. Irakul found a hastily scrawled note that she would meet the group on the road back through the mountains.

Faust looks around the town, fascinated by the many people and sites, his eyes swiveling and scoping. “There seems to be many interesting people and creatures here, each with their own life and story to tell.”

It is evening and the wagon passes through a town square market still doing a busy trade, traders and stall folks calling out to passerby of their variety of wares for sale at extremely low prices.

Heste comments, “Interesting, I had heard tales of the forces of IUZ wreaking havoc, pillaging, razing whole cities and putting the people into slavery.. or worse.. ” shaking his head he looks about. “Mayhap this mercenary crew is different.”

Clucking and slapping the reins lightly on George - Heste’s name for the warhorse - the wagon moves off towards the Jade Sanctuary. The bustling noise drifting into a murmur behind..

Arriving at the Jade Sanctuary, Heste advises he can take the wagon and horse for now, he knows a stables. Planning to meet around noon tomorrow. The party agrees and the old man clucks at George and they trundle off. Vencer summons his owl to follow the wagon into the night.

From the outside it looks to be a large stone block building, well maintained. Intricate details and patterns cover most of the building's outer structure. There are 2 statues flanking the double door entrance. Both sitting, one female and the other male. Probably 10’ tall, weathered and faded runes on a stone plaque at each figure’s feet. The Made of a greenish blue jade. 

An old man works in the street down the way.

After some scrutinization and all they determine the plaque notes in the Kettish language, “The Sister and The Brother”. Once a dual deity worshipped in the lands of Ket and deserts to the West. 

As the weary adventurers enter the sanctuary through the thick, stone doors, they are welcomed by amazing, but unknown scents and a very noticeable calm and restful peace.

A foyer filled a variety of blossoming flowers and bushes flank a large fountain, the water tumbling and gurgling gently. A woman, close to seven feet tall stands to one side waiting expectantly it seems for them with a welcoming smile. She wears a fitted robe of red over dark blue skin in contrast  with long black curly hair. A look to Pyra and the rogue knows she has infernal blood as well, even as small horns can be seen through the perfectly styled hair.

With an undetermined accent, “Our pleasure to welcome you to the Jade Sanctuary. We will look

forward to your stay with us, We are  Xirraa, your host...” she trails off at seeing Ara, the tall woman cries out in joy and scoops the dwarven girl up amongst a long series of complaints mixed in with some swearing from the dwarven girl.

Xirra calls out and from behind the fountain 2 attendants dressed in blue and green fitted clothing come at her call.

Ara looks back to the party quickly and with a resigned sigh, shrugs her shoulders. “My thanks again and see you later. Xirra will take care of all your needs.” Smiling she walks with the 2 attendants out of sight.

Xirra smiles and arms wide, “Welcome.. To the Jade Sanctuary!”

Walking through a central garden area, there are the same 2 staff that bustled Ara the dwarf off, they are in the garden, working - the female pruning a  plant and the male doing some maintenance on a walkway

A perceptive Pyra notes a small number of black and red furred monkeys in the trees watching the

group curiously. They do not approach. Xirra just smiles when asked. “They are our long time guests. Have always been here as long as I have.”

The infernal woman walks on explaining, “We are not open yet for our normal season, but with the.. “ she pauses and the with a side glance at armoured and armed adventurers “change in leadership of Rastor, we are now open for a select few guests. “

Leading the group through the calm and peaceful place, the infernal woman smiles as she sees the affect on the party, the smells and beauty wipe away the weary travel of the past days and weeks.

She guides the group to a suite where advising they can rest or leave equipment, “Securely and privately,” Xirra says. She passes each of a bronze card that will allow the holder access to that room as well as all the areas of the Sanctuary.

All feel a vibration from the card as they take it. A pattern draws on the one side engraving an exact picture of the holder. On the opposite side is a likeness of the dual statues outside, but one statue, left side being the male and right being the female.

Vencer rolls an arcana check, he has heard of these, they are a kind of life key card. Once assigned to a guest it links to the person similar to attuned magic items.

Xirra, after some persuading advise that there are 3 other groups of guests, 2 githyanki soldiers (Ziglartin and Pkalla), a single drow( did not give a name, male) all as far as she knows are part of the mercenary force, and a Noble from the North west. He has a retinue of 4 whom look to be guards\attendants, none of the Jade Sanctuary staff are allowed to serve him. She recalls they called him Villion she was not sure if that was a name or title.. Possibly another language.

Xirra does not seem that concerned about the political changes, as long as the Jade Sanctuary continues to thrive.

Multiple platters of fruits, meats, cheese, sweets, and more are brought in by the same 2 attendants - a man and woman   - whom do not speak.

“The baths are open as well as the pool for your use and at your leisure. Note.. There are fish in the pool, they are harmless.. but playful.” The infernal smile showing sharp teeth but in a friendly way. “If you need anything in the J.S. just hold up your bronze pass and either say ’Xirra’ for we,“ motioning to herself, “to assist, or say ‘Jade’ and we“ she motions to the 2 attendants standing nearby, “will be there to assist.”

Bowing all 3 make their leave after any further questions or requests.

The party makes note of the strange way that Xirra refers to herself as we. Vencer is able to connect with his familiar and the little owl is riding in the cart unbeknownst - it seems - to Heste. He approaches a large round stone building - a merchant's hall -  that has a ramp going down. Into the gloom the wagon. A large unground stables is attended by a young man. Heste leaves the wagon and George with the young man and head's off through double doors.

Back at the Sanctuary, the griffon rider is finally awake. Her name is Roxberry or Rox for short.
After finding out more about what happened, to her and her griffon as well as the Controller and her magically sealed scroll tube, Roxberry seems eager to help once she learns the party's intentions and goals.

After delectable food and excellent drinks or many types, the party relax on cushions in their suite.

Faust ventures out into the pool area and communes with his patron. Summoning his familiar. At the floor in front of the warforge starts to bubble, the flagstone rips apart like flesh, and an infernal creature comes out as a wave of brimstone and heat hits Faust. For a moment, a view of a massive gate and a winding river and then it closes with a pop. An imp. The infernal creature looks with glee at its new Master - Faust. The warlock hears within his mind an extremely DEEP voice.. "How may I serve you?"

Another spirit or soul for the true Masters below.. Faust yearns to find out about his master and the imp promises infernal help.. Faust decides to name the creature, Mephesto.

Vencer assists Rox and ensures she rests and eats. Skrit uses his medical skills to ensure she recovers as well.

Irakul tries to take the devil's head out of his bag of holding. It seems the head advises it cannot survive without a body. It asks to bring a recently dead body. It seems there is a section to the bag of holding is blocked by the head of the infernal creature. 

Pyra practices with her crossbow in the gardens. Sees the monkeys flitting between and as one seems to keep an eye on the rogue.

The party relax.. none perhaps except Vencer may have enjoyed this level of luxury. Vencer writes a letter to his school.

The party sleeps and then late at night, around 1 bell after midnight a strange creature enters the room. Faust, finished his recharging, notes a breeze. The party are able to react but it is not an enemy. It is a messenger.

A dragon-like snake-like creature without legs is coiled around the post of the double windows. As it uncoils it flies into the centre of the room and with its tail drops a pouch and then moves back to the window again. Bearing its teeth, a smile or a sneer?

All have weapons ready.. it tilts its head curiously at all then looks back at Faust. the Warlock opens the pouch and there is a squared piece of paper with a wax seal - of Overlord Romack.

Breaking the seal, the warlock reads out loud:

Greetings, RedWater Fellowship. I have need of you in the City of Rastor. I hope you can meet tomorrow at High Noon. There is a certain sewer - 3 palm trees hang over in the slums area. If you can meet me there, I hope you can do something to support Overlord Romack. 

A stylized V finishes the note.

At that point, the dragon flyer flies off into the air. The party discusses late into the night, deciding to meet with this 'V'. The party realizes after Rox points it out that they are fairly unique and stand out in a crowd: a kobold, a tiefling, a goliath, a warforged, and a human plus another with Rox..

The next morning, the party encounters a drow in the gardens. The tall lithe elf is very interested in

Faust - warforged. Faust proudly stating he is unique. This perks the drow's interest even more. The drow offers to meet later with Faust. "Perhaps we can talk by the pool later." The elf advises his name is Zerann.

A library in the Jade Sanctuary is explored where a number of books are found as well as history of the Sanctuary.

Vencer confirms the location of the slums in the city. Faust asks his imp to transform into a raven to scout. Changing form the imp looks to be in pain and with bones cracking and flesh pulling and stretching it changes into a raven. 

This is very beneficial. As the raven floats around, Faust - looking through the eyes, sees a former town square and imprinted into the flagstones are three large stylized palm trees. This would have been hard to notice walking. Taking wheeled cabs, the party heads out to the square of the three palms. It seems it was originally four palms but one was destroyed or the flagstones removed.

In the centre of the square they note a trader with a variety of clothing, boots, shoes and more. The party barters and buys a variety of clothes. The trader motions, and then moves a chest out of the way to a sewer entrance. Yelling out to some other folks in the square, he looks to be distracting all..

Taking this opportunity, It is locked, but this does not deter Pyra whom is able to pick it quickly.  Lifting the square grate - like a trapdoor - the heroes head down into the dark, dank and fetid

sewers.  Seeing nothing moving, the heroes form up on a walkway. Mephesto scans the area as well as Pyra but after about 50 feet the dank mist obscures all vision.

Vencer momentarily feels something touch his shoe or boot. Then the party hears the click-clack of booted feet coming near. Possibly more thna 2 feet. Then a tall figure appears out of the mist. About 5' tall, portly with ruddy cheeks, and greying hair with mutton chops. Carrying a walk stick. 

"Ahh the RedWater Fellowship. A pleasure to meet you all!" He beams.

V talks to the group and advises of a RESCUE mission.. not a person.. but an item. This is to help save Lord Royce whom is trapped in the Abyss. [DM see blog post] The item an amulet will allow the wearer to create a gate portal to the plane where Royce is held. Creating a portal to a specific place/person in the Abyss or Hell is nigh impossible. Except with an amulet like this. An artifact.

V continues, "The Commander of the town - a Githyanki - holds this item. There will be a reception in two nights. This would be the most opportune time while the guards and the commander are busy with this event.."

At that moment, a tentacle slings out to stealthily wrap out to Vencer, Pyra notices this, and fires. 

Battle ensues with a giant carrion crawler.

Back and forth with the monstrous creature which paralyzes multiple creatures.

In the end the massive creature dies. 

V is impressed and advises he will bring supplies and a map of the location..

A Fallen Hero

6th of Planting

 The crackle and snap of the campfire is soothing to the party's ears. Akran, Eldeth, Ara although tired huddle near the warmth of the small smokeless fire - Skrit's knowledge of outdoor craft although primarily book-learned is exceptional - and eat the mixed stew of vegetables ol'Greeta had given the group as well as rabbit and pheasant mixed in, courtesy of Pyra's crossbow to make a very filling and tasty late dinner.

Vencer's spell - Leomund's Tiny Hut keeps the group safe as the night air cools down up in the mountains.

Peren - the old firbolg - declined to enter the magical hut, preferring to lean back against a tree in the small clearing. His form seemingly to blend in with the tree and undergrowth.

Eldeth - the 1/2ling - tells of her time in the jungle coasts far south and east, she seems to know the seas well. She seems to be interested in staying with the adventurers, if they will have her as an ally. She seemed familiar with some weapons gathered from the fallen kobolds, shortbow, and a spear and a dirk.  Whereas both Akran and Ara will be grateful for an escort to the large town of Rastor.

After the hectic battle in the early evening, it is a comfort for all to relax and rest for a little..

Vencer relays some stories of petty noble squabbles and how one of them ended up with the mayor of a town being bucked off into a river. Just trying to pass the time. Corrin will be sitting there thinking to himself. He seems to be having some kind of internal struggle as he twirls the Luck Stone around his fingers. Irakul and Pyra take watches with Peren who's alert senses are helpful.

The night passes without event except for a screech from a passing flying kobold flight. It is cool in the mountains, a cloudless sky promising a warm day later in the afternoon.

The griffon rider is still unconscious, but doing better every day, Skrit advises. The party makes good time sticking to the road, but staying alert for kobold patrols. The majority of the rescued prisoners are able to ride the wagon. The merchant Akran and dwarf Ara both raise an eyebrow at the sight of the keg - from the Monastery of the Three Crescent Moon. Vencer and Corrin discuss options privately on what to do with the valuable cargo. 

The group travel for the day, and nearing the end of the day come to a fork in the path where they note three large carts moved up towards one of the mines in the area. Traveling on, there is no encounters, and then after a long day walking and riding in the wagon, the party finds a good spot to hide and camp

for the night. A small cave near a waterfall - big enough though to take the wagon and warhorse in with a sandy floor. There is a small pool - seems to connect to the waterfall - but no other exits or danger seem to be there. Setting watches and having a small covered campfire the group bed down for the night. The night passes peacefully, the two moons cross the sky in a starfield twinkling. Irakul sits near the entrance with a dozing Peren, the firbolg still not fully recovered. The warrior looks about and then hears the faint tramping of feet and a twinkle of a torch or lantern through the trees. A late night group is travelling the road.

Irakul, takes a careful peek and sees a troop of kobolds with three or four prisoners in tow. a swoop and call from one of the elite flying kobolds makes the goliath duck. He cannot see well in the dark.. the kobolds can. Waking the party, they are resolute. More prisoners to be freed! Confidant in their course of action, Corrin, Vencer, Irakul and Pyra will take on the ambush. Leaving Skrit to look over his former prisoners, the griffon rider with Heste.

The four adventurers skirt along the road as the band of kobolds head on the road South. Finding a
likely spot for the ambush, Corrin requests to try his plan that he had wanted to use at the last kobold encounter. The group agree and prepare, spells and weapons. Rounding a bend in the path, the group of kobolds walk on, whispering softly, prisoners looking to be three to four in the middle of the group. Vencer sees what looks to be a larger figure. Possibly an ogre.

AMBUSH

Corrin and Vencer prepare spells, Irakul has his echo out and Pyra cranks her crossbow. Corrin casts the

Phantasmal Force at the ogre of the Shadow Mephit Boss. As the spell finishes, the ogre slows and looks about shaking his head hard, the spell.. has no effect. [DM needed a 15 to save, rolled 18-2] While this happens, the assassin - Pyra - fires a bolt into a robed kobold at the rear. The bolt flies true and kills the kobold gurgling as it falls to the ground. A kobold carrying a lantern cries out "Kragin has been hit!" The other kobolds react quickly and combat is engaged before the other party members can react with surprise.

Pyra, fast as always, fires at the ogre, her hit dealing extensive damage (DM: sneak attack again) as the bolt catches the large brute in the side. Corrin whispers in the ogres ear - casting Dissonant Whispers - the ogre fails this save and cries out running off into the darkness.

A massive worg - about the size of a small pony - leaps up and onto Corrin knocking him over and

ripping into the bard with jaws locked. The second worg not seeing any others nearby, attack Corrin as well! Both mauling him close to death. Kobolds then attacked some fanning out into the dark while a few guarding the prisoners. Irakul invokes his echo close to one one kobold whom held his action and in surprise attacks and destroys the echo. Irakul swings the Giant's Hand Ax slicing through the kobold sergeant. Vencer perched in a tree looks down aghast at the worg's attacking Corrin. Launches an orb of fire from his wand into the smaller worg which yelps in pain. A kobold holding his crossbow ready fires and hits the wizard. The wizard then crouches near the trunk in cover. The ogre, shaking off the effects of Corrin's spell returns to the battle.

Pyra looses another bolt at the ogre hitting the large brute in the shoulder it bawls out in a gurgling cry not dead but injured.

Corrin looks down at the 2 worgs, one trying to snap at his chest stomach and arm, the larger with jaws locked ripping at the bard's leg. Blood flying everywhere, Corrin casts reduce on himself and with his size reduced tries to retreat. The worgs attack again, even though a kobold tries to call one off to attack Irakul. But both worgs are in a blood frenzy and continue to rip into the changeling bard, killing him.

The battle continues. A smaller kobold moves up to the executioner - Irakul and slices the goliath in one leg. Irakul becomes a true killing machine. He slices down kobold after kobold. One with his head removed, a second gets a blade down into his chest. The goliath slams three attacks into the already
injured ogre. Irakul, slashes off one arm, takes off his other hand at the wrist and then buries his ax into the ogre's chest. The ogre falls forward gurgling blood, as Irakul deftly jumps out of the way.

Pyra fires her crossbow again and a bolt catches the larger worg in the flank injuring it.

The worgs finally turn after repeated calls from their handler to attack Irakul and his echo. With the ogre falling the remaining kobolds retreat into the night keening and screeching. The two monstrous animals are finished and the party gathers around Corrin. Seeing the strange grey featureless face of the bard, both Vencer and Pyra seem to not be too surprised at this - the bard having shown his true nature once before.

The three heroes try vainly to save Corrin but in the end they are not able to. Skrit is too far away and his healing skills do not raise the dead.

Gathering the prisoners, and treasure from the fallen enemies, the group return victorious, but sad at the loss of a comrade.

The prisoners a family, grandfather - Victor, father - Brom and Lionna - Mother and young daughter - Aubrey. whom advise they were travelling  West of Rastor and were raided by the kobolds.

All - especially the former prisoners are surprised at the visage of the dead Corrin. Skrit starts a ceremony to Istus and speaks with dead to the spirit of Corrin. It seems he did not have any formal
faith. The spirit wished to be cremated but have his visage drawn in the notebook Corrin carried. Doing a quick sketch, Eldeth passes on the notebook to Vencer. The pyre is made at the entrance to the cave, and then Vencer takes a ball of bat guano in wax and rubs in Sulphur, a little bead of fire launches and a perfect sphere of flame blossoms in the tinder and explodes in a fireball.

A moment of silence for the party as they each take some time to think about the bard's contributions, his music, his artistic skills.. [DM: Corrin will be remembered in the Hall of Heroes. RIP]

The party moves on, resolute in their quest.

An Amulet of the  that has three finger bones. The device allows a wearer to have proficiency in a skill the owner of the finger if they were specialized in that skill. So gives the wearer proficiency in a skill (if the wearer already has prof. they get +2 on the roll) A Ring of Protection is found as well.

Skrit assists the family as Brom advises the town of Rastor - where the group are heading towards has been overrun and taken by the forces of IUZ. It seems the town at the approaching army opened the gate and welcomed the army which now bivouacs to the North, most likely heading East after the

retreating forces of the Overlord Romack. It seems though the town is still open for business, a mercenary crew - The Darkelnaarr - a group of black-skinned elves - drow and a leadership of the group are the githyanki. Irakul, Pyra and Vencer all heave heard of these creatures - none met one. Raiders and or travelers of the Astral plane and sea, githyanki are known to be fierce and tough opponents whom know magic, mind magic and weapons all.

With this news, the various members of the former prisoners decide to continue onwards. Heste is adamant that he must reach Rastor for some reason.. the other former prisoners all wish to travel on as

well with the town being peaceful. Travelling on the next day, they reach a wayfarer's lodge. [DM #2 on map]. It looks to be after careful scouting by Vencer's owl familiar. The group decide it may be a good idea to hide the keg from the monastery so take this off into the woods. As they are returning, they hear a girl screaming. Vencer sighs. Seems the party may be getting tired of saving folks..

A strange humanoid has come out of the lodge. is it alive.. or a golem.. or..

Wary at first of this new creature, the party learns this humanoid - a warforged - had been dormant - or asleep? for 25 years. Further discussions and the party agree to take this warforged by the name of Faust - a collector of souls it seems. This brought a look between Vencer, Irakul and Pyra. [the primary quest for this party is spirits or soul energy to power the flying tower - DM blog entry]

The party travels and meets a patrol of dark elves led by a githyanki outside Rastor. An interaction nearly had the new Faust being attacked by the githyanki. With the soothing words of Vencer, the situation was turned to a benefit, learning some information of the town.

Travelling on, they finally make it to the town where after paying a toll, the party enters the town of Rastor. Some take their leave, and the party moves off led by Ara to the Jade Sanctuary inn.

Kobold Surprise

5th of Planting

“We should make try causing a distraction somehow. Get them confused and out of order then attack them from behind.”  Corrin whispers to the party

A day earlier.. As the party moved away from the fallen griffon rider in the 3 moss covered trees at the standing stone, Skrit had an epiphany with his goddess - Istus. The source of power on the other side of the Astral portal was a beacon of life possibly a holy place and he felt he could tap into this to bring the young woman back to life. Discussing quickly with the party, They agree that this is a good plan.

Turning the wagon the reach the standing stone and body of the young woman. Skrit, kneels and begins a ceremony of life. Each of the party step forward and contribute some power or assistance to the life

ceremony.

60' high and 30' wide gate. A sphere - elongated - three dimensional gate to the Astral plane and sea. Irakul with his echo being tied to the more death side of the astral plane, is even so able to have his Echo assist Skrit in tapping into the life source. Pyra attuned to the planes as well, brings her infernal energy to assist the kobold priest in his life giving magic. Corrin urges Skrit on inspiring him as well. Vencer infuses his magic into opening the gate allowing the energy to flow directly to Skrit.

Skrit feels the power. He basks in in, he feels it infuse every nerve and fibre of his being. He is somewhat less than a demigod but perhaps equal to an angel or deva to Istus. He looks down at the young woman, her face still cold and pale and reaches out a clawed hand to touch

The ballista bolt, probably caught the rider as well as the griffon. Skrit focuses his power as his reaches out. He can feel the spirit of the young woman. 

At that moment, Skrit looks up to see the gate there and a vast limitless sea of swirling colours. A small island can be made out and on it is a large cross but on its side. The ancient cross looks to be massive, an ancient area to a forgotten god of life. 

At that moment, the girl's eyes open and she gasps, Skrit looks down and the gate snaps shut.

The girl is unconscious. Skrit is able with his extensive medical skills determine she bled out with the now scarred side. Fully healed. (DM: 3-4 levels of exhaustion)

Skrit continues to monitor her health as they then head off again in the wagon..

Back to the kobold camp.

It is dusk, the heroes decide on a bold plan from Corrin on surprise stealth and more...

Tapping back into a fearful creature the party met in the mines, Corrin moves forward. "Stay back until I message it is time to attack," He uses the message spell to each member..

Corrin moves much closer nearly tripping on a root of a tree, he can barely see the outline of the head of the kobold in the dusk, the sun nearly set now. Vencer uses his owl familiar to distract the kobold. Casting Phantasmal force, he invades the kobolds mind with a horror beyond its knowledge.. Thinking back to a creature which had attacked the party in the first mine the party explored. (DM: BLOG post )

The young and bored kobold, on his second shift of guard duty was barely looking around. He had secretly - he thought - taken an extra helping of golden ale when the cook was not looking.. and had

been caught. Forced to cough it up, then given a beating AND double shifts of guard duty. Now a tentacled and multi-eyed creature was upon him..

The kobold sees the cave monstrosity and screeches out and screaming. The whole camp wakes up at this racket.

"Monster!"

The party engages the kobolds. The party assumes the scream is the signal and they attack. Corrin seems frustrated at this but at this point can do nothing about it.

Irakul's Echo appears in the edge of the camp and looks to be ready to attack. Skrit moves forward and sees another kobold which sees him AND the Irakul's echo. The 2nd kobold fires his bow, and takes down Irakul's echo (DM: 26 echoes taken down). As it disappears, the kobold yips in glee at taking the big hulking humanoid and axe down.

Corrin yells [in Dwarven], "Fall back, this wasn't the plan!"

Pyra, not understanding dwarven moves forward stealthily

She scans.. the first kobold has fallen to the ground and screaming a monster has him as he seems to be strangling himself - the affect of the phantasmal force.

Seeing more of the camp due to her dark vision. the rogue cranks the finely made dwarven crossbow, ratcheting up tension and takes aim at a kobold. Timing it perfectly, the bolt takes the kobold in the eye as it peeks around with a screech and gurgle the creature falls lifeless to the ground. Pyra smiles and hides in the knee-deep water.

Vencer moves up, holding his wand of orbs at the ready for any enemy to appear.

Irakul summons his 17th echo and moves forward as well.

Skrit moves up to deceive the kobolds which actually works and causes some confusion. The one side of the camp is not engaging. A successful deception so far. The one kobold motions him forward to "Go talk to the Sergeant!"

The self strangling kobold finally dies. Corrin then casts enlarge on Irakul. Now.. a giant with an axe is attacking the kobolds. Then the kobold fires at the giant echo. The kobold again kills the echo and yips again, but is unsure now.. as the echo keeps coming back.

Skrit and the Sergeant have a dialogue and it looks to be going well at first but then.. (Deception roll Natural 1), the Sergeant attacks. Then Skrit cast blindness on the Sergeant. 

A kobold from near the fire moves forward and sees Pyra and slings a clay pot at the rogue. The throw was bad and hits a wall instead. Other kobolds move forward as she ducks back and then the kobold takes a bolt from the infernal in the chest.

Vencer frustrated at the limited vision casts light on a rock and tosses it forward.

The battle rages back and forth until a trolls lumbers forward. The massive creature wearing piecemeal armour and a belt of heads, carries a jagged spear. slams into echo. Another one bites the dust

'A clay pot comes out of the darkness. Irakul is covered in the slime and in the slime, rotgrubs burrow into his skin.. [DM: rotgrubs]

Skrit has been attacked by a scaled hound tearing into the kobold priest with jagged fangs and holding on to him.

Vencer using his teleport ability slings a fireball on the battlefield doing extensive damage to the troll and killing a few kobolds as well. The blast of fire and smoke lights up the area allowing the party to see more.

Skrit breaks free from the scaled hound and retreats. Corrin casts Dissonant whispers on the troll which [DM: fails save - miserably] yelps and runs away. The kobolds morale breaks and one yells "Fall back!"

Vencer throws another light stone to so another area is lit.

Pyra fires to take out a wounded kobold and misses. Irakul continues to cut and dig the rot grubs out of his body as they burrow towards his vital organs. Doing a searing smite with his rings it burns the grub ni his lower abdomen.

Skrit calls upon his goddess and is healed. Corrin moves up as a crossbow bolt shoots out of the dark. Corrin casts vicious mockery on a hiding kobold but the scaled creature ignores the insults. Then.. the troll came back. With one swing he takes down Irakul's echo and then chomps and slashes into Corrin.

Pyra standing in the pond water hears the roar of the troll coming back, and the slashing and gurgling

of Corrin being hit hard. Stepping out, the assassin takes aim with her crossbow - cranked for extra damage - and shoots the troll in the neck piercing deep.

Vencer launches off a fiery orb and it smashes into the troll. Irakul, summons his echo while continuing to kill the rotgrubs burrowing into him. These one look larger than the original ones that infected Corrin.

Irakul continues his attacks and using his echo attacks the troll. Enlarged he deals more damage - the troll does not regenerate this round.

Skrit Casts a powerful on Corrin to heal him up. Corrin then slings a spell at the troll and it takes some more damage. One of the kobold sergeants misses Skrit and the troll decides to flee.. But three of the heroes  attack and Skrit is able to hit the troll killing the monster. The kobold runs at seeing their great troll ally fall.

The party then quickly burn the body of the troll with fire and acid. The kobolds are defeated some fleeing into the night. The party rescue four chained up prisoners.

○ Akran - 1 human male - merchant originally from East side of the NyrDyv lake. Advises to  pay 100gp if escorted to Rastor

○ Eldeth - 1 hobbit female - young very dark skin, from the jungles to the south

○ Ara - Dwarf (non BR) female. Hill dwarf. From Rastor. If returned there, her family whom run an inn - the Jade Sanctuary (has hot springs with a large natural jade formation - much now carved by artisan dwares). Will provide free rooms for a week

○Peren. Very Old firbolg. Male. Blind. But has enhanced hearing to allow him to function somewhat normally.  

Pyra notices a kobold spying on the heroes and stalks it into the trees. With perfect skill, she slits its throat and it is unable to run.

Vencer talks to Heste as he brings up the cart, his large crossbow ready. The wizard asks how she is, and the rider seemed to be having a feverish dream or nightmare about a "commander" or "controller". This brings a troubled looks to all the party [DM: blog update on Controller]

The cook has a sealed clay pot - similar to the pot that had the rot grubs in it.

A tent from Graxusas' circus was recovered, being used by kobolds. Irakul looks happy to return that to his boss. A double locked case holds a magic sword - a sentient - named Milanel - longsword of dancing.

Corrin takes up the sword and has a mental conversation with the blade.

The party comes across a number of treasure items, magic and wealth. They decide to roll for items:

Corrin chooses first and then the rest of the party. The changeling tries to barter with Pyra on the Dancing sentient longsword, but the rogue declines his offers to trade as the offers were not even close to the value of the priceless sword. The wizard is able to talk to the sword and  allows Vencer is able [Identify] to determine a few of the abilities of the sword - Milanel seems to allow the spell to work partially. [After 2 rounds of melee combat can be thrown into battle similar to a spiritual weapon spell]

Corrin tries to recover a few rot grubs, but searches for a way to capture/carry them.

Heste offers to sell Corrin a bottle or pot - at a very exorbitant price - [DM: party seems to think Heste is Link from some strange video game where things get smashed] - 5 gold. The debate goes on about what the grubs would be used for - price went down to 4 gold. In the end, the bartering falls through.

The party moves off a few hours and makes camp with their newly freed prisoners in tow. Hiding tracks - once again great rolls by Skrit with help by Corrin.

The party rests enjoying a campfire. Vencer casts Leomund's Tiny Hut  which allows many of the party to rest easily and they rest for the night with alert guards..

Stealthy Wagon Ride & Ol'Greeta

4th of Planting

 As the wagon trundles down the path North towards Drekarr village [DM: RED X], Heste looks at the party.  In his high pitched voice he murmurs to all, "Interesting discussion on options to get my destination and very much appreciated! You seem to have a dilemma but.." and he stops to look at Skrit and then Corrin here, "but don't realize you may have the tools to navigate North." With a shrug the merchant dozes off again.. 

Vencer notes these glances to the 2 party members and gets the wizard thinking to a previous task he had just after finishing his training where deception and guile worked over strength and force in working an event he was involved in..

As they heroes travel North, they have met an old woman. Ol' Greeta.

The old woman carefully sorts the vegetables, roots, herbs and fruits back into her large pack/bag. A muttered, "thank ye.." to Corrin as he helps. 

With a sideways glance at the party as the group's wagon rolls up.

"Friends of yers maybe?" She looks at Corrin squinting. Clamping a pipe in her mouth she snaps 2 fingers and a flame ignites on her index finger to light it and a very pleasant tobacco smell emanates as she puffs blowing out a stream of smoke.

Corrin looks back and then at the woman, “Yes they are. Like I said earlier, it’s considered dangerous to travel alone. Where did you come from?”

She finishes putting the remaining fruits carefully in the large bag/backpack. Corrin notices there are a variety of compartments built in made of thin wood slats and thick canvas to create a support structure so the various fruits and vegetables don't get crushed. "Heehee.. I live here Boyo.." Nodding towards the Eastern hills slightly south she points with the stem of her pipe. "Lived here all m'life."

Clamping the pipe in her teeth, which you find surprisingly white and even, in contrast with her wrinkled and weathered skin, she looks back at Corrin. "Now where do ye come from?"

 The old lady looks at Corrin then at the wagon of adventurers pulled by the war horse.

"Speak up sonny, ol' Greeta's ears are not like they used to be.." She reaches for the straps on the bag to close it.

“We came from down south. Just a group of adventurers helping out this merchant here get to where he needs to go.”

The old crone nods and takes a long pull on the pipe, blowing out a small puff of smoke. "Well.. if yer headin' North.. I'd be mighty obliged for a ride.. and the company.. as you say it IS dangerous." She grins at them, her pearly white teeth flashing in the setting sun..

"I would be interested to hear how you survived out here. If there is one thing I learned from my master it is that if you live this long-" Vencer gently gestures towards her with a sly smile "Than you must be either very lucky... or very crafty."

Ol' Greeta gazes up at Vencer in the wagon. "Ahh.. crafty.. and? Lucky." She puffs on the pipe.

"Well kobolds enjoy a certain fruit, it's like.." she pauses and looks out to the mountains, "it's like catnip for a cat. The commander.. he's no kobold, something bigger like a dragon man. He LOVES it. Addicted." She opens the flap to her backpack. Holds up a bunch of red  berries they have a white sparkle to them. "Tulsanri". 

She looks at Skrit, "Want to try?" A twinkle in her eye.

Skrit gulps a bit as she describes it, and he glances at the berries nervously. As much as he is curious his better judgement is convincing him not to.

“N-no thank you. Maybe another time.” Eager to try and ease a bit of his nervousness he takes out one of his notebooks and a makeshift charcoal pencil from a satchel, and sketches a quick diagram of the berries, studying them he makes a few notes. Skrit has heard and seen these berries before. To his people, they are called 'Doocassa' in Draconian. Rare and difficult to grown or acquire.

The group can see why Ol'Greeta may be popular with the kobolds.. Skrit has also heard rumours these have similar affect on infernal and demonic creatures.

The berries if eaten give kobolds an alertness or extreme level of awareness, as well as increased speed. Lasts for about 20 rounds for a berry or so.

Can be addictive..

There is a sudden lethargic reaction after where the eater is tired and slow.. lasting around 5-10 rounds. 

The party discusses much with the old woman, she seems to be a scavenger whom lived here before the kobolds took over the area. She was once a mid-wife healer. whom had a mate a woman who was the leader of the town guard, now passed.

Ol' Greeta seemed to sense that the kobold Skrit was not the leader which was interesting to her. There was discussion of payment for a ride to the village, then the party decided to change that - not wanting to confront the kobolds yet, but take Heste to the town of Rastor first.

They spend a night camping and talk late into the night. They discussed more on payment, and agreed upon a price. The adventurers were able to gain some good knowledge of the mining village of Drekarr:

• Over 50 kobolds she knows of maybe more.

• Worship some goddess, “cursed they say..”

• Supposed to be slaves working in the mines - 100s rumour has it

• Digging up something..

• The Marshal - “Marshall Dosgarr - leads the forces, a dragonman (Draconian) they say.” She sits up proudly, he is the one who like my fruities and veggies!” She shows a small basket of bright red and white, “these are the Marshal’s favourites.”

• The town has been fortified, makeshift walls across streets

• The clutch nest is in or under the townhall

• The Marshal lives in a central tower 1/2 knocked down near the hall.

• kobold guards roam the streets “.. and the flying ones.. they’re amazing the..” she thinks for a moment, “Kratcheek, they are called in their tongue.” Anyone whom can speak draconian knows this means ‘elite’

They ask why she sells to the kobolds, she shrugs and says, “ahh it’s not the little ones faults they don’t know any better, the cursed goddess seems to drive them to this, her and the Marshal.. “ trailing off she stares out and then “he’s a bad one.. She shivers, then with a toothy grin, “but he loves m’berries, that he does!”

An uneventful night and they travel on. When a three or four hours ride to the village, then they drop off the old woman and head East off the path next to the river. The travel was slow and difficult, but with the excellent survival skills of Skrit [Natural 20 on skill roll], they made fairly good time moving along the river, carefully bypassing large logs and boulders and small pools off the river even bypassing a waterfall. [DM off topic, a discussion on Blitzkrieg took place which could have taken the rest of the session]

The day was warm, a clear sunny Spring day. Ahead a patrol is noted coming down the road, which is higher along a ridge. The wagon is down below, where Skrit and Corrin are hiding. They hide the wagon. A group of kobolds eight or more as well as four of the flying elite - Kratcheek. Using a variety of spells, they are able to avoid the patrol. Vencer uses his multi familiars, Corrin uses his message spell to keep the party in contact, and Pyra uses her minor illusion to camouflaged the wagon.

Without event, the patrol moves on. Later in the afternoon..

The party has no further contact with kobold patrols but passing along a  barren slope they note something strange. [DM: Blue X on map]There at the base of a small hill are the remains of a griffon -

ballista bolt still lodged in chest at the bottom. Skrit's medical/nature check or show it has been dead for at least a few-3 weeks - scavenger animals have been at it. The bolt as well as burns along the wings.. Ol'Greeta's words come back about the kobolds using bots of flaming oil thrown with a staff-sling.

Survival checks show someone dragged their self away. Vencer sends his owl to scout and notes the tracks lead to the top of a small hill, where a young human woman is leaning against a standing stone Between 3 moss covered trees. She wears the armour and tabard of Overlord Romack’s army.

Skrit's further medical skills show surprisingly no scavengers have been at the young woman. The body does not look to be that long passed, investigating further, she has been up here for same time period 2-3 weeks but for some reason not decaying - seemingly only dead less than a day.

Nature/Arcana skilled - both Vencer and Skrit feel there is some sort of.. presence, or feeling of an energy or power.. of life, here. 

Further investigation by Vencer with discussion with Skrit and Corrin makes them realize this is an ancient leyline that connects to the astral plane. A source of life/nature is just beyond the portal or connection to the line that has kept the young woman's body.

Has a satchel, dagger, belt pouch. A long lance - well made - are found

Ruined leather armour

Dagger looks to be well balanced (+1 to hit when thrown)

Satchel, Contents: 

• canteen h2o - 1/2 empty

• cloth wrapped sandwiches (moldy)

• 1 scrollcase wax seal of Romack (Vencer recognizes the Controller’s seal)

• Small leather journal and charcoal pencil - reading this looks to be the personal journal of the young woman. She joined the Griffon riders about 3 months back, and did a number of courier runs. Before that, it speaks of time at a small college west of Greyhawk. Before that, she talks of a troubled  and bored young life growing up at a mill just outside of Greyhawk city - Sendall's Crossing. From the writings, it appears she has 2 sisters and 1 brother whom all were younger. There is no indication of the rider's name. But does list the Uncle's 1st name (Jantz), and 3 siblings (Sera, Teelie and Bork-head (not sure if the name for the boy is correct or more of a nickname)

• A small tin

• A chipped fragment of Elven pottery - shows tall white tree - with 2 elves standing below - possibly a ceremony - Elvish/1/2 elvish will know this shows  "heart-twine" (elvish - Liassa' tlar - wedding ceremony)

She also has a small pendant on a silver chain around her neck. Inlaid with a ceramics and bone, of a flying horse - Pegasus. Worth 25gp

Belt pouch contents: 4 Greyhawk minted gold, 15 cop and 21 silver

Corrin takes most of the gear and all, making notes and a good sketch of the young woman - for his changeling skill.

Travelling on until in the later evening, the adventurers see a campfire twinkling in the distance. Vencer
sends out his familiar and scouts. He finds a patrol of kobolds, that seem to have made camp AND have at least four prisoners. The party makes ready for a fight..

Farewells, Vines and Ol' Greeta

3rd of Planting - Low Summer

 The party take their leave from the thankful giants, confirming Treggin will meet the heroes near the kobolds now living in the former mining town of Drekkar 10 days hence.

Skrit had decided to take one of the items -  spoke from the giant's wheel which has swirls of abjuration  magic. Vencer and Skirt talk about a potential magical staff, spear or multiple wands could be created..

The party do some further searching of the large bag/backpack covered in mold. To empty the bag, the party come up with a unique way to try and save any items tumbling out:

Vencer summons 2 monkey  with flock of familiars spells, uses his mage hand, Pyra uses her gauntlet to also summon a mage hand as well as Corrin. Vencer and Irakul lift the giant backpack, dumping the items as the 2 monkeys and mage hands try and save anything. (DM: art work please)

• 2 tome - 1st, Physiology of skulls of all types of creatures. 
• A large canvas bag - 6 bolts of fine silk - not affected by the mold
• Small Black case - has a number of magical vials - giant strength, healing x2 and a final very precious one, a potion of Youth - Vencer decides to not tell the party about the latter potion - "this is an unknown one" Corrin notes something different about Vencer while he is identifying all the potions

After the demise of 1 monkey due to the mold/spores, the party investigates and cleans - with the 3 mage hands heavily used. Vencer decides the prestidigitation spell may come in handy..

The party ascends the stairs a short way and then decide to end the life of the mimic, based on the knowledge the creatures are not sentient so could not be used as 'fuel' for the infernal engine of the flying tower. Vencer's magical blade appears and with a swift single stroke ends the mimic's life as it was just coming conscious again. Corrin decides to gather some of the flesh and blood of the shape changing creature - in his canteen.

Continuing the ascent they reach the caverns, where the party breathes a sigh of relief. The heroes come

into a cave that has the large boulder like spheres that are covered in a fine white powder. 

Skrit and with assistance from Corrin, have never seen or come across anything of the like (DM: with advantage natural 1 / 1) Vencer takes out his alchemy kit and using some of the gear - much of it depleted since the wizard has not been able to replenish any time recent - approaches and feels a pull on his source of energy for his spells. His light spell winks out, and then his mage hand after scraping a little of the powder does as well, but with continued castings of the cantrip, is able to acquire some of the anti-magic (?) dust in a vial.

With great relief and long breaths of fresh air, the party exits the mine. Seeing the sky, sun - late morning - it is a beautiful sunny Spring day, with hardly a cloud in the sky.

The party sees Poet with the two kobolds, as well as Heste smoking his pipe near the wagon and war horse. (being used as a cart horse)

Corrin advises he has something to tell to the party in confidence, but when they are alone. Poet thanks the party, and advises she will take no share of the treasure.

Corrin buys a sealed jar from Heste (at an exorbitant cost), to transfer the remains of the mimic flesh and blood from his canteen. Corrin cleans out his canteen after.

Poet provides some food - Grizzelle the older female made some steak and kidney pot pies to Pyra and

Skit receives 2 bottles of wine of the Monastery of the 3 Crescent Moons -  and advises the party to top up their canteens from the well. Skrit and the two kobolds have a emotional farewell. Saying their goodbyes, the party heads out. 

Corrin and Pyra takes on the role of scout and Irakul and Skrit take on the survival role to keep the party on track. Moving up the main path road, the party enjoy an afternoon of good travel. Pryra notes a group of the flying kobolds far off as they fly but the flyers don't notice the wagon and all it seems. Pyra whom is scouting ahead, hears a voice and gurgling cough.

Sneaking ahead, the rogue sees two men ahead just near the road. One the younger a redhaired skinny boy probably late teens is unconscious, multiple vines wrapped around his body and 1 on his neck. The older, is fighting off 2 vines feebly.. Tall and heavy set man, Black skinned with long braided hair. 2 vines wrap him, and he continues to fight off 2 more. The scimitar is just out of his reach. There is a lush amount of green growth in the area around a tree, whereas the plants and trees in the area are stunted and sparse.

Pyra does a near perfect shot with her assassin skills, and takes a vine out with her Dwarven Crank Bolter, that was just about to wrap around the older man's neck.. "Thank you he calls out hoarsely".

The party engages the vines to save the two men. Irakul does a perfect shot using his echo t slice one of the vines off the younger man, his executioner ability in good form.

Corrin casts enlarge on the older man - whom amazed as he grows in size to over 12' in height and the vines stretch and break. The blue flames of Skrit's sacred flame spells are effective against the attacking vines. Vencer tosses a vial of clear fluid - supposedly the 4th potion from the case - and is annoyed when it has no effect on the vine. 

Vencer uses his wand of chromatic orbs to blast the vines holding the man/giant. In the end, the vines are defeated and two men are saved with Telnio - in giant form - smashing a large boulder into the vince creature. Skrit's sacred flame does the killing blow. Healing word of Corrin and the medicine skills of Skrit save the 2 men.

It seems the two - the younger Jonah and the older Telnio - are caravan guards for a group working with the monastery of the 3 Crescent Moons. The party all exchange looks back to their wagon and the barrel
- worth thousands of gold - that belongs to the Monastery. After some discussion and recovery, the older man, Telnio sees the wagon and contents. With some deception and persuading words of the party, the 2 mercenaries are left behind.

The party moves on, not sure how the mercenaries will act on this. Telnio wishing the heroes "Good luck against the kobolds.."  Skrit, Vencer and Irakul all seem to feel he is NOT being sincere.

Near the end of the day, Corrin is scouting, and Skrit navigates, noting this area of the road looks to be more used. Corrin sees ahead on the road over a rise, the path goes up between two small hills. An elderly woman slowly moving along in same direction as the group. Corrin tries to stealth closer, and checks the area after a message spell to Vencer. Corrin does not see any other creatures in area. She looks to be bent double under a backpack or large bag on her back - possibly filled with vegetables or fruits..

Corrin casts message to her saying  "Who goes there?" The old woman jumps, her bag of vegetables and fruits tumble to the ground. She screeches in surprise and fright. Corrin casts the spell again and tries to calm the woman but the woman holds her head screeching to stop it.

Corrin tries to move up stealthily, but a spray of loose gravel tumble down from his feet. 

"Don't hurt me!" She cries out as she had been trying to gather 

"What are your attentions on this road?" Corrin asks, his hands out in a peaceful gesture.

She looks back as she continues to gather seeing the young man seems to not be a threat. Huffing,
"What do you think it is, you.. young ruffian! I am walking on it." She grumbles.

"What of the kobolds? They have been attacking travelers on the road, it is not safe."

The old woman cackles, "Heehee.. not if ya know how to deal with them. They like things ol' Gretta will give'em." The old woman looks to be a human, weathered skin with greyish hair in a bun. Carrying a variety of vegetables and fruits which she is putting back into the bag.

Corrin assists her.

Until next time..