[Game Thread] Call of the Ancient - Part 4

[zebedee]

Gallindan The eladrin listened with a soft smile on his face as his apprentice - which no longer felt like the right word - expressed herself at length. Partner? Or just companion? His spirit surged at the option to go in search of the avatar. He had many questions about how his faith diverged from that of Marcus, or even that of Oren. And Fierna's words still whispered in his head. How sure was he that the King of the Mountain was even real? He intended to step in and suggest that as their course of action. But Oren spoke first, and his simple words were compelling. Gallindan wanted the avatar to resolve some philosophical and religious questions. But the Cloak put the people of the land in immediate danger, not to mention their pursuit of himself and the rest of the Lantern. No, Oren was right. He nodded, and sighed. "Agreed. The Cloak is a threat to all of us, and all those we protect. Whatever else we may want to pursue pales in comparison to our need to defend this land. I, too, vote for Xulhaven." He looked to Adelaide to judge her response to the suggestion.

[Starflier]

Adelaide Darkdraft The young paladin was unable to hide her disappointment, at least initially, to the prevailing sentiment that they go after the Cloak of Aramok first. She couldn’t deny the wisdom in that decision, but also couldn’t deny the appeal of being the ones to free an imprisoned god, no matter how ludicrously beyond her abilities such a task would surely be. ”Of couse,” she said, banishing the brief look of disappointment behind her usual facade of calm mixed with a little bit of disapproval, ”a wise decision. These villains need to be stopped as soon as possible, and it seems to fall to us.”

 

Actions Rolls Action: Reaction: Opportunity Attack if Available Bonus: Haste Action: Move: Interaction: Concentration:

Stat Block Adelaide Darkdraft | Lawful Good | Human | Paladin 6 (Oath of the Ancients) Armor Class: 19 | Hit Points: 44/52 | Speed: 30 | Proficiency Bonus +3 Ability Scores: Str 16/+3 | Dex 8/-1 | Con 14/+2 | Int 8/-1 | Wis 12/+1 | Cha 16/+3 With +3 from Aura of ProtectionSaving throws: Str +6 | Dex +2 | Con +5 | Int +2 | Wis +7 | Cha +9 Skills: Athletics +6 | Insight +4 | Intimidation +6 | Nature +2 | Persuasion +6 Passive Perception: 11 | Languages: Common, Dwarven, Goblin, Elvish Longsword: +6, 1d8+5 | Javelin: +6, 1d6+5, 30/120 | Splint Armour: AC 17 | Shield: AC +2 | Dagger x 2 Bullseye Lantern (filled and lit) x 2 Steel Mirror x 2 10 foot pole x 2 Hempen Rope (50 feet, coiled) x 2 Sack x 2 2 Mastiffs x 2 Bag of 100 gp x 1 10 gems worth 100 gp each x 2 Portable Ram x 1 10x10x10 pit x 1 Robe of Useful Items Relevant Skills/Feats: Fighting Style: Dueling | Divine Sense | Divine Health | Divine Smite | Lay on Hands: 30/30 | Channel Divinity: 1/1 | Extra Attack | Aura of Protection (+3, 10’ radius) | If you take the Attack action on your turn, you can use a bonus action to try to shove a creature within 5 feet of you with your shield. If you aren't incapacitated, you can add your shield's AC bonus to any Dexterity saving throw you make against a spell or other harmful effect that targets only you. If you are subjected to an effect that allows you to make a Dexterity saving throw to take only half damage, you can use your reaction to take no damage if you succeed on the saving throw, interposing your shield between yourself and the source of the effect. Shield Master | Increase your Strength or Dexterity by 1, to a maximum of 20. Once per turn when you hit a creature with an attack that deals slashing damage, you can reduce the speed of the target by 10 feet until the start of your next turn. When you score a critical hit that deals slashing damage to a creature, you grievously wound it. Until the start of your next turn, the target has disadvantage on all attack rolls. Slasher Spell Slots: 1/4, 2/2 | Spell Save DC: 14 | Spell Attack Bonus: +6 | Spells Prepared: 6 Oath Spells: Ensnaring Strike, Speak with Animals, Moonbeam, Misty Step Spells: Compelled Duel, Shield of Faith, Thunderous Smite, Lesser Restoration, Protection from Poison, Find Steed

 

Character Sheet

[mountainbound]

Oren Kyre When they have a minute together, Oren asks Daybreak: "Isabelle seems to want to learn more about the power you've shown her. Do you feel she's safer here, or perhaps on the road with us? With so much that's happened to her, I'm not sure I trust having her here with the rest of us so far away."

[tomplum]

Kerwin Powell Holed up in a quiet alcove of the church, Kerwin had set about copying the spell he had used to extricate the demonic presence from the young girl. As he worked, he went over the experience over and over. The thrill of it was other worldly. His thirst for knowledge grew until he could barely contain himself. Once the scroll was completed, he pulled the book he had found the astral leech spell and began pouring over its pages in greater details. If one off-hand remark could provide him with such powerful magics as the magic circle incantation, there had to be more within. The concepts discussed in the book would take decades to decode but Kerwin was searching less for insight into the astral planes and its denizens than something else he could unlock, more magic he could wield. Then he spotted it. A summoning spell to conjure beings not of this world. He flipped back a number of chapters to the descriptions of the varied creatures of the astral planes. Slaad. Alien creatures most similar to a frog or salamander but with teeth and claws. They seemed primordial but the story told of ancient ruins and wonders that spoke of a universe spanning empire. Massive creatures born of infantile chaos. If one such as this could be summoned to this world, it would be a mighty bulwark against his enemies. There were even mentions of tissual regeneration. Beholder. These he had heard mention of before. An aberration that haunted the dark places of the world...it made sense that they were not native to the world, this world at least. They could fly which could be useful and had eye rays that could damage from as extreme a range as any longbowman. Star Spawn. Kerwin was most intrigued by the concept of this creature. It quite literally radiated any aura of psychic agony. The sliver of an obsession had been pierced into his brain and Kerwin was quite powerless to stop it.   Movement: none Action: Bonus Action: Reaction: Free Action: Conditions: Rolls:   Kerwin Powell | 7th-Level Transmutation Wizard | 5'3" 190 lbs. Variant Human HP: 51/51 | AC: 9 | Initiative: +4 | Spell Slots: 4/4 | 3/3 | 3/3 | 1/1 Spell DC: 15 Spell Attack Bonus: +7 Weapons: +2 to hit, 1d6-1 B, Versatile (1d8)Quarterstaff Cantrips Known: Enchantment cantrip Casting Time: 1 action Range: Self Components: S, M (a small amount of makeup applied to the face as this spell is cast) Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute For the duration, you have advantage on all Charisma checks directed at one creature of your choice that isn’t hostile toward you. When the spell ends, the creature realizes that you used magic to influence its mood and becomes hostile toward you. A creature prone to violence might attack you. Another creature might seek retribution in other ways (at the DM’s discretion), depending on the nature of your interaction with it.Friends, Transmutation cantrip Casting Time: 1 minute Range: Touch Components: V, S, M (two lodestones) Duration: Instantaneous This spell repairs a single break or tear in an object you touch, such as a broken chain link, two halves of a broken key, a torn cloak, or a leaking wineskin. As long as the break or tear is no larger than 1 foot in any dimension, you mend it, leaving no trace of the former damage. This spell can physically repair a magic item or construct, but the spell can’t restore magic to such an object.Mending, Evocation cantrip Casting Time: 1 action Range: 60 feet Components: V, S Duration: Instantaneous You cause numbing frost to form on one creature that you can see within range. The target must make a Constitution saving throw. On a failed save, the target takes 1d6 cold damage, and it has disadvantage on the next weapon attack roll it makes before the end of its next turn. At Higher Levels. The spell’s damage increases by 1d6 when you reach 5th level (2d6), 11th level (3d6), and 17th level (4d6).Frostbite, Transmutation cantrip Casting Time: 1 action Range: 10 feet Components: V, S Duration: Up to 1 hour This spell is a minor magical trick that novice spellcasters use for practice. You create one of the following magical effects within range: You create an instantaneous, harmless sensory effect, such as a shower of sparks, a puff of wind, faint musical notes, or an odd odor. You instantaneously light or snuff out a candle, a torch, or a small campfire. You instantaneously clean or soil an object no larger than 1 cubic foot. You chill, warm, or flavor up to 1 cubic foot of nonliving material for 1 hour. You make a color, a small mark, or a symbol appear on an object or a surface for 1 hour. You create a nonmagical trinket or an illusory image that can fit in your hand and that lasts until the end of your next turn. If you cast this spell multiple times, you can have up to three of its non-instantaneous effects active at a time, and you can dismiss such an effect as an action.Prestidigitation 1st-Level Spells Known: 1st-level conjuration (ritual) Casting Time: 1 action Range: 60 feet Components: V, S, M (a piece of string and a bit of wood) Duration: 1 hour This spell creates an invisible, mindless, shapeless, Medium force that performs simple tasks at your command until the spell ends. The servant springs into existence in an unoccupied space on the ground within range. It has AC 10, 1 hit point, and a Strength of 2, and it can’t attack. If it drops to 0 hit points, the spell ends. Once on each of your turns as a bonus action, you can mentally command the servant to move up to 15 feet and interact with an object. The servant can perform simple tasks that a human servant could do, such as fetching things, cleaning, mending, folding clothes, lighting fires, serving food, and pouring wine. Once you give the command, the servant performs the task to the best of its ability until it completes the task, then waits for your next command. If you command the servant to perform a task that would move it more than 60 feet away from you, the spell ends.Unseen Servant, 1st-level illusion Casting Time: 1 action Range: Self Components: V, S Duration: 1 hour You make yourself – including your clothing, armor, weapons, and other belongings on your person – look different until the spell ends or until you use your action to dismiss it. You can seem 1 foot shorter or taller and can appear thin, fat, or in between. You can’t change your body type, so you must adopt a form that has the same basic arrangement of limbs. Otherwise, the extent of the illusion is up to you. The changes wrought by this spell fail to hold up to physical inspection. For example, if you use this spell to add a hat to your outfit, objects pass through the hat, and anyone who touches it would feel nothing or would feel your head and hair. If you use this spell to appear thinner than you are, the hand of someone who reaches out to touch you would bump into you while it was seemingly still in midair. To discern that you are disguised, a creature can use its action to inspect your appearance and must succeed on an Intelligence (Investigation) check against your spell save DC.Disguise Self, 1st-level evocation Casting Time: 1 action Range: 120 feet Components: V, S Duration: Instantaneous You create three glowing darts of magical force. Each dart hits a creature of your choice that you can see within range. A dart deals 1d4 + 1 force damage to its target. The darts all strike simultaneously and you can direct them to hit one creature or several. At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the spell creates one more dart for each slot level above 1st.Magic Missile, 1st-level enchantment Casting Time: 1 action Range: 90 feet Components: V, S, M (a pinch of fine sand, rose petals, or a cricket) Duration: 1 minute This spell sends creatures into a magical slumber. Roll 5d8, the total is how many hit points of creatures this spell can affect. Creatures within 20 feet of a point you choose within range are affected in ascending order of their current hit points (ignoring unconscious creatures). Starting with the creature that has the lowest current hit points, each creature affected by this spell falls unconscious until the spell ends, the sleeper takes damage, or someone uses an action to shake or slap the sleeper awake. Subtract each creature’s hit points from the total before moving on to the creature with the next lowest hit points. A creature’s hit points must be equal to or less than the remaining total for that creature to be affected. Undead and creatures immune to being charmed aren’t affected by this spell. At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, roll an additional 2d8 for each slot level above 1st.Sleep, 1st-level abjuration (ritual) Casting Time: 1 action Range: 30 feet Components: V, S, M (a tiny bell and a piece of fine silver wire) Duration: 8 hours You set an alarm against unwanted intrusion. Choose a door, a window, or an area within range that is no larger than a 20-foot cube. Until the spell ends, an alarm alerts you whenever a tiny or larger creature touches or enters the warded area. When you cast the spell, you can designate creatures that won’t set off the alarm. You also choose whether the alarm is mental or audible. A mental alarm alerts you with a ping in your mind if you are within 1 mile of the warded area. This ping awakens you if you are sleeping. An audible alarm produces the sound of a hand bell for 10 seconds within 60 feet.Alarm, 1st-level transmutation Casting Time: 1 action Range: 60 feet Components: S Duration: Instantaneous Choose one object weighing 1 to 5 pounds within range that isn’t being worn or carried. The object flies in a straight line up to 90 feet in a direction you choose before falling to the ground, stopping early if it impacts against a solid surface. If the object would strike a creature, that creature must make a Dexterity saving throw. On a failed save, the object strikes the target and stops moving. When the object strikes something, the object and what it strikes each take 3d8 bludgeoning damage. At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the maximum weight of objects that you can target with this spell increases by 5 pounds, and the damage increases by 1d8, for each slot level above 1st.Catapult, 1st-level abjuration Casting Time: 1 reaction, which you take when you are hit by an attack or targeted by the magic missile spell Range: Self Components: V, S Duration: 1 round An invisible barrier of magical force appears and protects you. Until the start of your next turn, you have a +5 bonus to AC, including against the triggering attack, and you take no damage from magic missile.Shield, 1st-level evocation Casting Time: 1 action Range: Self (30-foot line) Components: V, S, M (a bit of rotten food) Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute A stream of acid emanates from you in a line 30 feet long and 5 feet wide in a direction you choose. Each creature in the line must succeed on a Dexterity saving throw or be covered in acid for the spell’s duration or until a creature uses its action to scrape or wash the acid off itself or another creature. A creature covered in the acid takes 2d4 acid damage at start of each of its turns. At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell slot 2nd level or higher, the damage increases by 2d4 for each slot level above 1st.Tasha's Caustic Brew 2nd-Level Spell Known: 2nd-level divination Casting Time: 1 action Range: Self Components: V, S, M (a copper piece) Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute For the duration, you can read the thoughts of certain creatures. When you cast the spell and as your action on each turn until the spell ends, you can focus your mind on any one creature that you can see within 30 feet of you. If the creature you choose has an Intelligence of 3 or lower or doesn’t speak any language, the creature is unaffected. You initially learn the surface thoughts of the creature—what is most on its mind in that moment. As an action, you can either shift your attention to another creature’s thoughts or attempt to probe deeper into the same creature’s mind. If you probe deeper, the target must make a Wisdom saving throw. If it fails, you gain insight into its reasoning (if any), its emotional state, and something that loom s large in its mind (such as something it worries over, loves, or hates). If it succeeds, the spell ends. Either way, the target knows that you are probing into its mind, and unless you shift your attention to another creature’s thoughts, the creature can use its action on its turn to make an Intelligence check contested by your Intelligence check; if it succeeds, the spell ends. Questions verbally directed at the target creature naturally shape the course of its thoughts, so this spell is particularly effective as part of an interrogation. You can also use this spell to detect the presence of thinking creatures you can’t see. When you cast the spell or as your action during the duration, you can search for thoughts within 30 feet of you. The spell can penetrate barriers, but 2 feet of rock, 2 inches of any metal other than lead, or a thin sheet of lead blocks you. You can’t detect a creature with an Intelligence of 3 or lower or one that doesn’t speak any language. Once you detect the presence of a creature in this way, you can read its thoughts for the rest of the duration as described above, even if you can’t see it, but it must still be within range.Detect Thoughts, 2nd-level transmutation Casting Time: 1 action Range: Touch Components: V, S, M (powdered corn extract and a twisted loop of parchment) Duration: 1 hour You touch a length of rope that is up to 60 feet long. One end of the rope then rises into the air until the whole rope hangs perpendicular to the ground. At the upper end of the rope, an invisible entrance opens to an extradimensional space that lasts until the spell ends. The extradimensional space can be reached by climbing to the top of the rope. The space can hold as many as eight Medium or smaller creatures. The rope can be pulled into the space, making the rope disappear from view outside the space. Attacks and spells can’t cross through the entrance into or out of the extradimensional space, but those inside can see out of it as if through a 3-foot-by-5-foot window centered on the rope. Anything inside the extradimensional space drops out when the spell ends.Rope Trick, 2nd-level illusion Casting Time: 1 action Range: Self Components: V, S Duration: 1 minute Three illusory duplicates of yourself appear in your space. Until the spell ends, the duplicates move with you and mimic your actions, shifting position so it’s impossible to track which image is real. You can use your action to dismiss the illusory duplicates. Each time a creature targets you with an attack during the spell’s duration, roll a d20 to determine whether the attack instead targets one of your duplicates. If you have three duplicates, you must roll a 6 or higher to change the attack’s target to a duplicate. With two duplicates, you must roll an 8 or higher. With one duplicate, you must roll an 11 or higher. A duplicate’s AC equals 10 + your Dexterity modifier. If an attack hits a duplicate, the duplicate is destroyed. A duplicate can be destroyed only by an attack that hits it. It ignores all other damage and effects. The spell ends when all three duplicates are destroyed. A creature is unaffected by this spell if it can’t see, if it relies on senses other than sight, such as blindsight, or if it can perceive illusions as false, as with truesight.Mirror Image, 2nd-level abjuration Casting Time: 1 action Range: Touch Components: V, S, M (gold dust worth at least 25 gp, which the spell consumes) Duration: Until dispelled You touch a closed door, window, gate, chest, or other entryway, and it becomes locked for the duration. You and the creatures you designate when you cast this spell can open the object normally. You can also set a password that, when spoken within 5 feet of the object, suppresses this spell for 1 minute. Otherwise, it is impassable until it is broken or the spell is dispelled or suppressed. Casting knock on the object suppresses arcane lock for 10 minutes. While affected by this spell, the object is more difficult to break or force open; the DC to break it or pick any locks on it increases by 10.Arcane Lock 3rd-Level Spells Known: 3rd-level evocation (ritual) Casting Time: 1 minute Range: Self (10-foot-radius hemisphere) Components: V, S, M (a small crystal bead) Duration: 8 hours A 10-foot-radius immobile dome of force springs into existence around and above you and remains stationary for the duration. The spell ends if you leave its area. Nine creatures of Medium size or smaller can fit inside the dome with you. The spell fails if its area includes a larger creature or more than nine creatures. Creatures and objects within the dome when you cast this spell can move through it freely. All other creatures and objects are barred from passing through it. Spells and other magical effects can’t extend through the dome or be cast through it. The atmosphere inside the space is comfortable and dry, regardless of the weather outside. Until the spell ends, you can command the interior to become dimly lit or dark. The dome is opaque from the outside, of any color you choose, but it is transparent from the inside.Leomund's Tiny Hut, 3rd-level enchantment Casting Time: 1 action Range: 120 feet Components: V, S Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute You reach into the mind of one creature you can see and force it to make an Intelligence saving throw. A creature automatically succeeds if it is immune to being frightened. On a failed save, the target loses the ability to distinguish friend from foe, regarding all creatures it can see as enemies until the spell ends. Each time the target takes damage, it can repeat the saving throw, ending the effect on itself on a success. Whenever the affected creature chooses another creature as a target, it must choose the target at random from among the creatures it can see within range of the attack, spell, or other ability it’s using. If an enemy provokes an opportunity attack from the affected creature, the creature must make that attack if it is able to.Enemies Abound, 3rd-level abjuration Casting Time: 1 reaction, which you take when you see a creature within 60 feet of you casting a spell Range: 60 feet Components: S Duration: Instantaneous You attempt to interrupt a creature in the process of casting a spell. If the creature is casting a spell of 3rd level or lower, its spell fails and has no effect. If it is casting a spell of 4th level or higher, make an ability check using your spellcasting ability. The DC equals 10 + the spell’s level. On a success, the creature’s spell fails and has no effect. At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 4th level or higher, the interrupted spell has no effect if its level is less than or equal to the level of the spell slot you used.Counterspell, 3rd-level transmutation Casting Time: 1 action Range: 30 feet Components: V, S, M (a shaving of licorice root) Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute Choose a willing creature that you can see within range. Until the spell ends, the target’s speed is doubled, it gains a +2 bonus to AC, it has advantage on Dexterity saving throws, and it gains an additional action on each of its turns. That action can be used only to take the Attack (one weapon attack only), Dash, Disengage, Hide, or Use an Object action. When the spell ends, the target can’t move or take actions until after its next turn, as a wave of lethargy sweeps over it.Haste, 3rd-lvl abjuration Casting Time: 1 minute Range: 10 feet Target: A 10-foot-radius, 20-foot-tall cylinder centered on a point on the ground that you can see within range Components: V S M (Holy water or powdered silver and iron worth at least 100 gp, which the spell consumes) Duration: 1 hour You create a 10-foot-radius, 20-foot-tall cylinder of magical energy centered on a point on the ground that you can see within range. Glowing runes appear wherever the cylinder intersects with the floor or other surface. Choose one or more of the following types of creatures: celestials, elementals, fey, fiends, or undead. The circle affects a creature of the chosen type in the following ways: The creature can’t willingly enter the cylinder by nonmagical means. If the creature tries to use teleportation or interplanar travel to do so, it must first succeed on a Charisma saving throw. The creature has disadvantage on attack rolls against targets within the cylinder. Targets within the cylinder can’t be charmed, frightened, or possessed by the creature. When you cast this spell, you can elect to cause its magic to operate in the reverse direction, preventing a creature of the specified type from leaving the cylinder and protecting targets outside it. At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 4th level or higher, the Duration increases by 1 hour for each slot level above 3rd.Magic Circle, 3rd-level evocation Casting Time: 1 action Range: Self Components: V, S, M (niter, sulfur, and pine tar formed into a bead) Duration: Concentration, up to 10 minutes You create six tiny meteors in your space. They float in the air and orbit you for the spell’s duration. When you cast the spell — and as a bonus action on each of your turns thereafter — you can expend one or two of the meteors, sending them streaking toward a point or points you choose within 120 feet of you. Once a meteor reaches its destination or impacts against a solid surface, the meteor explodes. Each creature within 5 feet of the point where the meteor explodes must make a Dexterity saving throw. A creature takes 2d6 fire damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one. At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 4th level or higher, the number of meteors created increases by two for each slot level above 3rd.Melf's Minute Meteors 4th-Level Spells Known: 4th-level conjuration Casting Time: 1 action Range: 90 feet Components: V, S, M (a pickled tentacle and an eyeball in a platinum inlaid vial worth at least 400 gp) Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour You call forth an aberrant spirit. It manifests in an unoccupied space that you can see within range. This corporeal form uses the Aberrant Spirit stat block. When you cast the spell, choose Beholderkin, Slaad, or Star Spawn. The creature resembles an aberration of that kind, which determines certain traits in its stat block. The creature disappears when it drops to 0 hit points or when the spell ends. The creature is an ally to you and your companions. In combat, the creature shares your initiative count, but it takes its turn immediately after yours. It obeys your verbal commands (no action required by you). If you don’t issue any, it take the Dodge action and uses its move to avoid danger. At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 5th level or higher, use the higher level wherever the spell's level appears on the stat block. Aberrant Spirit Medium aberration Armor Class: 11 + the level of the spell (natural armor) Hit Points: 40 + 10 for each spell level above 4th Speed: 30 ft., fly 30 ft. (hover) (Beholderkin only) STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 6 (−2) Damage Immunities: psychic Senses: darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 10 Languages: Deep Speech, understands the languages you speak Challenge: — Proficiency Bonus: equals your bonus Regeneration (Slaad Only). The aberration regains 5 hit points at the start of its turn if it has at least 1 hit point. Whispering Aura (Star Spawn Only). At the start of each of the aberration’s turns, each creature within 5 feet of the aberration must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw against your spell save DC or take 2d6 psychic damage, provided that the aberration isn’t incapacitated. Actions Multiattack. The aberration makes a number of attacks equal to half this spell’s level (rounded down). Claws (Slaad Only). Melee Weapon Attack: your spell attack modifier to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1d10 + 3 + the spell’s level slashing damage. If the target is a creature, it can’t regain hit points until the start of the aberration’s next turn. Eye Ray (Beholderkin Only). Ranged Spell Attack: your spell attack modifier to hit, range 150 ft., one creature. Hit: 1d8 + 3 + the spell’s level psychic damage. Psychic Slam (Star Spawn Only). Melee Spell Attack: your spell attack modifier to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 1d8 + 3 + the spell’s level psychic damageSummon Abberation Features: Always on the lookout for danger, you gain the following benefits: You can’t be surprised while you are conscious. You gain a +5 bonus to initiative. Other creatures don’t gain advantage on attack rolls against you as a result of being unseen by you. Alert, Beginning when you select this school at 2nd level, the gold and time you must spend to copy a Transmutation spell into your spellbook is halved.Transmutation Savant, Starting at 2nd level when you select this school, you can temporarily alter the physical properties of one nonmagical object, changing it from one substance into another. You perform a special alchemical procedure on one object composed entirely of wood, stone (but not a gemstone), iron, copper, or silver, transforming it into a different one of those materials. For each 10 minutes you spend performing the procedure, you can transform up to 1 cubic foot of material. After 1 hour, or until you lose your concentration (as if you were concentrating on a spell), the material reverts to its original substance.Minor Alchemy, Starting at 6th level, you can spend 8 hours creating a transmuter's stone that stores transmutation magic. You can benefit from the stone yourself or give it to another creature. A creature gains a benefit of your choice as long as the stone is in the creature's possession. When you create the stone, choose the benefit from the following options: Darkvision out to a range of 60 feet An increase to speed of 10 feet while the creature is unencumbered Proficiency in Constitution saving throws Resistance to acid, cold, fire, lightning, or thunder damage (your choice whenever you choose this benefit) Each time you cast a transmutation spell of 1st level or higher, you can change the effect of your stone if the stone is on your person. If you create a new transmuter's stone, the previous one ceases to function.Transmuter's Stone, You have learned to regain some of your magical energy by studying your spellbook. Once per day when you finish a short rest, you can choose expended spell slots to recover. The spell slots can have a combined level that is equal to or less than half your wizard level (rounded up), and none of the slots can be 6th level or higher. For example, if you're a 4th-level wizard, you can recover up to two levels worth of spell slots. You can recover either a 2nd-level spell slot or two 1st-level spell slots.Arcane Recovery Spells Prepared for Normal Day: Enemies Abound, Haste, Detect Thoughts, Rope Trick, Mirror Image, Catapult, Disguise Self, Sleep, Tasha's Caustic Brew, Shield, Melf's Minute Meteors Spells Prepared if Expecting Trouble: Enemies Abound, Haste, Counterspell, Mirror Image, Rope Trick, Sleep, Tasha's Caustic Brew, Shield, Magic Missile, Melf's Minute Meteors, Conjure Aberration

[Admin Bhelogan]

Daybreak and Oren Daybreak Lillynewt Daybreak listened as Oren explained his thoughts on Isabella. The druid had to agree. "Her parents are barely capable of taking care of themselves, let alone her. I think they have proven this more than once now. Not that I blame them, but I think you are right. Our path is a dangerous one, but I think we are more capable of keeping an eye on her, and leading her in a product path." She looked over at the young apprentice she would be taking under her literal wing. "Have you noticed the way she keeps looking at Kerwin? I think she has more than one reason to want to travel with us."

The Gathering Aaric Hornsear Marcus gathered the adventurers together to bid them farewell before he left to warn the other members of the hooded lantern. He had a copy of the purifications pell that Kerwin had provided, his mount was well rested, provision gathered, and a planned route for his travels. The antilantern, he felt was safer with the group of adventures, than for him to travel with alone. He was sure that the Cloak of Amarok had more than one of these lanterns at their disposal, and if the Hooded Lantern needed another to study, they could find it. He said his goodbyes and took his leave for the long road ahead. It was then time for the group to travel to Xulhaven. The road would take them far to the Southeast, a region none of them had been before. While gathering their own provision, Oliver approached the group. Frath's Son had seen everything that had happened in their town, lived through the terror of the dragon, the false priest, and had been one of the first to help train the young boys volunteering for the town's militia. "I... I would like to come with you," he petitioned. "So much of the world has visited us here, I would like to go and see abroad. Besides, I think you could use a good scout! I'm a good shot with a bow too." Oliver was sincere in his request, and his claims about his skills were well founded. Frath had trained him well in many disciplines, farming, tanning, metalwork, hunting, tracking, and more. About the same time as the young man made his proposal, a small caravan arrived from Tribblefork. The farmer and his boys had returned, along with half a dozen Knights of Neomosis. "Here to help train our militia!" the farmer exclaimed with a friendly wave as they rode by. One of the Knights, the adventures knew well by name. Aaric Hornsear. Aaric was the cousin of Kurt's mother, the teenager who had brought Hakkouth's body from Triblefork months ago. "Rumor is, you are headed to Xullhaven?" he inquired. "You are going to need a guide to get there. Just so happens, I might be the right man for the job." He pulled out a map showing the region where Xullhaven was located. "We are far northwest of here. But you have to make a choice, neither is good, to get to Xullhaven. You can cross the river here at Bluemoon." He tapped on a city, one of the few in the region shown by the map, that sat on the edge of a large river. "The city has a barge service to continue on the main road further east. You would have to track a path south through the Netherswamps though, which are extremely dangerous. The other option is to take a ship down the river, and exit here." He pointed to another location on the south side of the map. "It's a shorter trek to Xullhaven this way, but you have to pass through the Devil's Spine Mountains. Which is also dangerous." He gave everyone a moment to look over his map, before rolling it up and returning it to a traveling canister. "You don't have to make a decision on which way to go just yet though. Bluemoon is still quite the journey from here. But, you do have to decide if you would like to hire me. Very reasonable rates, since we have a history, and you did save my cousin's kid and all. What do you say?"

OODM Last decisions as we wrap up this chapter: 1) Allow Oliver to come along? He would essentially be a 'sidekick' as an Expert 2) Hire Aaric, and if so, what would you offer him as payment? He doesn't have anything specific in mind, so could be persuaded by any number of means. Also, going through my notes, I had a list of mage spells that were in a book Oren had taken from the Temple 'years' ago, if it is of interest now that there is a proper 'wizard' in the company.   Tenser's Floating Disk (1st level Conjuration) Fog Cloud (1st level Conjuration) Grease (1st level Conjuration) Color Spray (1st level Illusion) Detect Magic (1st level Divination) Tasha's Hideous Laughter (1st level enchantment) Expeditious Retreat (1st level Transmutation) Identify (1st level Divination) Level 2 spells Cloud of Daggers (2nd level Conjuration) Web (2nd level Conjuration) Nystul's Magic Aura (2nd level Illusion) Locate Object (2nd level Divination) Level 3 spells Clairvoyance (3rd level Divination) Fireball (3rd level Evocation)

[zebedee]

Gallindan, before the gathering While the others slept in preparation for the journey ahead, Gallindan went into the woods once again to meditate. He could meditate indoors in comfort, of course. But something called to him. He realized that something had been calling to him for some time. He picked his path deeper into the woods than most of the villagers were willing to go in the dark. He didn’t fear these woods. They spoke to him. The insects buzzed and chirped. An occasional owl called out in the night. He found a small clearing and paused. He laid his glaive down on the forest floor, and sat cross-legged in the middle of the clearing. He remained there for hours, feeling out the life all around him in his mind. Come, then, friend. You have called me, and I have answered. Who are you? For a long time, there was no answer. The sun was lurking just below the horizon when an answer finally came. I come. Gallindan roused himself from his trance and waited. A few minutes later, he heard rustling in the undergrowth. He opened his eyes, stood up, and turned to face the noise. And there it was, magnificent. An elk of enormous size stepped into the clearing. The moon glinted off silver antlers, twisted and filigreed and delicate beyond those of any animal from this plane. “He,” then. Despite his size and bulk, he made surprisingly little noise as he stepped on the leaves. Moss grew within his dark russet fur, making the fur itself seem green in places. In the mane around his neck, vines twisted among the long hairs, and a handful of tiny white flowers bloomed. Eyes of pure gold reflected the moonlight, and revealed an intelligence far beyond normal animals. Which, of course, had also been revealed by his telepathic call. The elk ‘spoke’ again. You are from the Feywild, yes? You feel like home. I have been lonely. The sadness in the message surprised Gallindan, and tears sprang to his eyes. This creature had been trapped here for a long time! I am. I am honored you have come to me. I miss home, also. How long have you been here? The elk thought for some time. I cannot say. Many cycles. Too many. Can you take me home? Gallindan’s soul shrank. I cannot. The doors are closed to me. I have been sent here by the Ancient One. Or at least by his servants. This world needs me. I wonder if perhaps it needs you, too? Again the elk thought silently. I do not want to be here. But if I am here, I would like to be of service to the Old Gods. There are fiends in these lands. The earth bleeds. I feel its pain. I feel it, too. My friends and I are going to confront some of these fiends when the sun rises this day. I would be honored if you would join us. The elk snorted and stamped his feet. I will join you. It has been too long since I lit the flame. I am Celebangolad. Well met, Celebangolad. I am Gallindan Shalbarain. The elk snorted in surprise. Shalbarain? All the multiverse is a small world, Gallindan Shalbarain. I served your sister. In the moonlight, Gallindan’s skin and hair suddenly shone silver again. Were you… were you with her when… No, I was not. But I felt it across the worlds. I could do nothing. Perhaps it is fate that I have found you. The eladrin took a deep breath, and steadied himself. The loss of his sister weighed on him, even after all these years. But he would not let himself be dragged back into melancholy. He exhaled, and his features returned to spring glory. Come, then, Celebangolad. You must meet the others before we begin our journey together. He rose and led his new companion back towards the church.

[mountainbound]

Oren raises an eyebrow when Daybreak points out Isabelle's repeated glances at Kerwin. "Uhh, no but now that you mention it..." the warlock can't help but smile. It would be an interesting road indeed.

When Marcus takes his leave, Oren clasps hands with him. He didn't quite see eye to eye with the paladin leader, but he didn't need to. Philosophical differences aside, they were different aspects of the same power, and that was all that mattered. The warlock breathes a sigh of relief to see him go, however, giving a whistle after Marcus was out of sight. Lux appears out of nowhere, and gives a very dark look at his bonded master. Oren had been hearing Lux complain about Marcus every time he had the chance, and perhaps now the imp could find something different to complain about -- to everyone.

When Oliver steps forward, Oren frowns. With a glance at Frath, he says, "Oliver, you're a good lad, and you've been essential to rebuilding and protecting Oakcrest all this time. I know you would do well as part of an adventuring party," he says, pausing. With Isabelle coming along, he knew they were already taking a chance with an inexperienced member. For as much as Olivier could bring to the group, his presence would likely turn into a liability for a hundred reasons. "But I had hoped to count on your experience here. I need a steward to keep and protect Dragon's Rest, someone I can count on. I had hoped that person was you." He holds in his hand one of the keys used to unlock the sturdy door that Oliver and Frath installed years ago.

Seeking out Kerwin, Oren says, "You know I am mostly a dabbler in arcane magic. The words are... confusing. Somehow the magic is there without them for me. But..." He reaches into his dragonscale cloak and withdraws a thick book and several scrolls. "I suspect these would be of interest to you. You have certainly earned the right to them, my friend."

OOC To Kerwin: Wizard's spellbook https://www.rpgcrossing.com/showthre...82#post7772382 Various wizard spellscrolls; Detect Magic ritual; Identify ritual https://www.rpgcrossing.com/showthre...88#post8870388 To Daybreak: Druid ritual scroll - Waterbreathing; https://www.rpgcrossing.com/showthre...88#post8870388 https://www.rpgcrossing.com/showthre...46#post7491746

[Starflier]

Adelaide Darkdraft An early riser, Adelaide was returning from the smithy as Marcus said his goodbyes before departing. Her studies of magic continued in her free time, particularly warding magic, and a new protection spell she wished to try was going to need some components. Powdered iron and silver weren’t the sort of thing one was going to find at the roadside, or while traipsing through the woods, so she had gone to the forge with a specific request. In truth she kept her studies to herself because next to an actual wizard, someone who studied magic itself and understood what was going on, she felt entirely inadequate in her grasp of the subject. The magic she had used thus far had worked, and that was good enough for her, but she was glad of Kerwin’s expertise alongside them. The young paladin had little to say to Marcus before he left on his own journey, new enough to the order to still question her place in it. She was a competent warrior and making progress in her understanding of the oath, some of it at least, but while she travelled with Gallindan she would always be the student. In that same vein she was happy that Oren saw fit to rebuff Oliver, and instead offer him a different opportunity. Risking their own lives was entirely reasonable, but given the danger they were sure to face on this trek she had little desire to bring along someone with even less experience than she did. ”Swamps?” she asked, her lip curling in displeasure as she looked at the map laid out by Aaric. Her thoughts turned to the absolute joys of walking through sucking mud in her heavy armour, and she shook her head. ”I would rather not. Down the river seems preferable. Less people to get in the way, whether agents of the Cloak, or just regular bandits.” The young paladin considers the map and the knight’s words, casting a surreptitious glance at a number of the patches on her garish cloak. The pit had worked out even better than she had hoped, and she looked forward to seeing if the others worked out just as well. ”What exactly would ‘reasonable rates’ be for a guide?” She eyed the much larger man, ”More importantly, perhaps, what exactly would we be getting for our money?”

OOC Changed prepared spells and swapped out Shield of Faith for Protection from Good and Evil, not that I’ve done much spellcasting.

 

Actions Rolls Action: Reaction: Opportunity Attack if Available Bonus: Haste Action: Move: Interaction: Concentration:

Stat Block Adelaide Darkdraft | Lawful Good | Human | Paladin 7 (Oath of the Ancients) Armor Class: 19 | Hit Points: 60/60 | Speed: 30 | Proficiency Bonus +3 Ability Scores: Str 16/+3 | Dex 8/-1 | Con 14/+2 | Int 8/-1 | Wis 12/+1 | Cha 16/+3 With +3 from Aura of ProtectionSaving throws: Str +6 | Dex +2 | Con +5 | Int +2 | Wis +7 | Cha +9 Skills: Athletics +6 | Insight +4 | Intimidation +6 | Nature +2 | Persuasion +6 Passive Perception: 11 | Languages: Common, Dwarven, Goblin, Elvish Longsword: +6, 1d8+5 | Javelin: +6, 1d6+5, 30/120 | Splint Armour: AC 17 | Shield: AC +2 | Dagger x 2 Bullseye Lantern (filled and lit) x 2 Steel Mirror x 2 10 foot pole x 2 Hempen Rope (50 feet, coiled) x 2 Sack x 2 2 Mastiffs x 2 Bag of 100 gp x 1 10 gems worth 100 gp each x 2 Portable Ram x 1 10x10x10 pit x 1 Robe of Useful Items Relevant Skills/Feats: Fighting Style: Dueling | Divine Sense | Divine Health | Divine Smite | Lay on Hands: 35/35 | Channel Divinity: 1/1 | Extra Attack | 10ft radius, +3 to all saving throwsAura of Protection | 10ft radius, resistance to damage from spellsAura of Warding | If you take the Attack action on your turn, you can use a bonus action to try to shove a creature within 5 feet of you with your shield. If you aren't incapacitated, you can add your shield's AC bonus to any Dexterity saving throw you make against a spell or other harmful effect that targets only you. If you are subjected to an effect that allows you to make a Dexterity saving throw to take only half damage, you can use your reaction to take no damage if you succeed on the saving throw, interposing your shield between yourself and the source of the effect. Shield Master | Increase your Strength or Dexterity by 1, to a maximum of 20. Once per turn when you hit a creature with an attack that deals slashing damage, you can reduce the speed of the target by 10 feet until the start of your next turn. When you score a critical hit that deals slashing damage to a creature, you grievously wound it. Until the start of your next turn, the target has disadvantage on all attack rolls. Slasher Spell Slots: 4/4, 3/3 | Spell Save DC: 14 | Spell Attack Bonus: +6 | Spells Prepared: 6 Oath Spells: Ensnaring Strike, Speak with Animals, Moonbeam, Misty Step Spells: Compelled Duel, Protection from Good and Evil, Thunderous Smite, Lesser Restoration, Protection from Poison, Find Steed

 

Character Sheet

[zebedee]

Gallindan Gallindan was inclined to let Marcus leave without a word, in order to silently express what he dared not say out loud. His disdain for the human's tactics was a problem. He continued to struggle to reconcile his own faith with that of his 'superior.' But his oaths bound him tightly. He hadn't chosen Marcus to lead the order on this plane, but Someone had. And to question that would be to question everything. His people hadn't survived this long by abandoning their oaths, and Gallindan wouldn't take that chance. Celebangolad, on the other hand, felt the negative emotions from the eladrin, and refused to show himself at the farewell. Instead, the elk took the chance to entertain some of the village children that had been present when Gallindan returned from the woods that morning. They were hugely amused by the flowers in his fur, and he was happy enough to let them climb on his back and giggle. Nevertheless, Gallindan had little to say to Marcus. It was hard enough to hide his disdain and be civil. Like Oren, he clasped Marcus's hand as the man departed... but he found no words to share. As his leader turned away to leave, Gallindan shook his head, trying to shake free his confusion. He was petulantly happy to see that Oren also had no kind farewell for Marcus. But then it was time for business, apparently. He was inclined to accept Oliver's offer, as he had been impressed by the youth's contributions. But his inner conflicts delayed his response, and Oren's answer made sense. "Some day, lad. You've proved yourself to all of us. And we would love to have you. But Oren is right. You're needed here. Once we leave, somebody needs to keep all of this town safer, not just Dragon's Rest." He hoped they wouldn't all regret leaving the young man behind. And then there was the matter of the mercenary. He joined that conversation late, too. But he was happy to see that Adelaide was of a similar mind to him. "Agreed. The river seems vastly preferable. But we can make that decision if we are lucky enough to get that far. Gods know we'd be foolish to expect no surprises between here and there. I am aware of the value of a good guide. But my friend here has already asked the pointed question. What's the rate, and what's the offer?"

[Admin Bhelogan]

The Gathering Aaric Hornsear The question of rate of pay was something the party was not quite sure how to handle, for Aaric's services. "Well, as a Knight of Neomosis, we would normally charge a standard rate of 100 gold per month for the services of a man at arms. In this case, it is mostly a token payment I am asking for, just so that I can send a copy of my contract of employment to Holger, and make sure I don't get included in any other contracts that may come up. We could just put it, say 1 gold per week, payable upon your return? Maybe if we happen to find some nice piece of treasure you are not in need of along the way, I could take that and call it even. If that is agreeable, one of you can sign here..." Aaric produced a parchment that had a template for a basic contract of employment and filled in the blanks with the expected time duration, payment amount, and time of payment to be after the trip is concluded. "Should wrap everything up. Just need a signature, and we can be on our way whenever you are ready! Bluemoon is a several week's travel to get to, but the roads should be fairly clear this time of year. No barbarian or goblin migrations are expected. I've heard rumors of tensions being tight between the Grakobian and Zarahenian City states, but that shouldn't impact any travelers passing through."

OODM I'll let you post any wrapups you want for this chapter of the game, and get the next chapter rolling soon!

[Starflier]

Adelaide Darkdraft ”Reasonable. Very reasonable,” Adelaide said as she reached out and picked up the contract for a better look, as though she had any experience with such things. She gave it a quick read before getting bored with all the words, at which point she snatched the quill from Aaric and made her mark. If she was going to continue being a useful and productive member of the group, she could make some decisions and take some responsibility. Handing both the quill and contract back to the man, she shook his hand before taking a step back. ”There. Welcome aboard.” She glanced over at Gallindan, uncertain if her take charge attitude had been the right way to go, but realizing it was too late to turn back. ”So, when do we set out?”

 

Actions Rolls Action: Reaction: Opportunity Attack if Available Bonus: Haste Action: Move: Interaction: Concentration:

Stat Block Adelaide Darkdraft | Lawful Good | Human | Paladin 7 (Oath of the Ancients) Armor Class: 19 | Hit Points: 60/60 | Speed: 30 | Proficiency Bonus +3 Ability Scores: Str 16/+3 | Dex 8/-1 | Con 14/+2 | Int 8/-1 | Wis 12/+1 | Cha 16/+3 With +3 from Aura of ProtectionSaving throws: Str +6 | Dex +2 | Con +5 | Int +2 | Wis +7 | Cha +9 Skills: Athletics +6 | Insight +4 | Intimidation +6 | Nature +2 | Persuasion +6 Passive Perception: 11 | Languages: Common, Dwarven, Goblin, Elvish Longsword: +6, 1d8+5 | Javelin: +6, 1d6+5, 30/120 | Splint Armour: AC 17 | Shield: AC +2 | Dagger x 2 Bullseye Lantern (filled and lit) x 2 Steel Mirror x 2 10 foot pole x 2 Hempen Rope (50 feet, coiled) x 2 Sack x 2 2 Mastiffs x 2 Bag of 100 gp x 1 10 gems worth 100 gp each x 2 Portable Ram x 1 10x10x10 pit x 1 Robe of Useful Items Relevant Skills/Feats: Fighting Style: Dueling | Divine Sense | Divine Health | Divine Smite | Lay on Hands: 35/35 | Channel Divinity: 1/1 | Extra Attack | 10ft radius, +3 to all saving throwsAura of Protection | 10ft radius, resistance to damage from spellsAura of Warding | If you take the Attack action on your turn, you can use a bonus action to try to shove a creature within 5 feet of you with your shield. If you aren't incapacitated, you can add your shield's AC bonus to any Dexterity saving throw you make against a spell or other harmful effect that targets only you. If you are subjected to an effect that allows you to make a Dexterity saving throw to take only half damage, you can use your reaction to take no damage if you succeed on the saving throw, interposing your shield between yourself and the source of the effect. Shield Master | Increase your Strength or Dexterity by 1, to a maximum of 20. Once per turn when you hit a creature with an attack that deals slashing damage, you can reduce the speed of the target by 10 feet until the start of your next turn. When you score a critical hit that deals slashing damage to a creature, you grievously wound it. Until the start of your next turn, the target has disadvantage on all attack rolls. Slasher Spell Slots: 4/4, 3/3 | Spell Save DC: 14 | Spell Attack Bonus: +6 | Spells Prepared: 6 Oath Spells: Ensnaring Strike, Speak with Animals, Moonbeam, Misty Step Spells: Compelled Duel, Protection from Good and Evil, Thunderous Smite, Lesser Restoration, Protection from Poison, Find Steed

 

Character Sheet

[zebedee]

Gallindan At Adelaide's glance, Gallindan grinned in response. Ah, Spring! I have missed this. Even as he reaccustomed himself to his changed emotional state, he was happy to watch Adelaide's growth. It had taken him decades to grow to his current state. He wasn't sure if Adelaide knew that she had already matched him... in what, months? These short candles burned so bright! He was proud of her. Had he told her that? Enough? In addition, he was actually grateful. He'd never quite figured out the currency in this world. He hadn't needed it with Hakkouth and the Lantern, and he hadn't needed it here in the village. One gold per week seemed... a bargain? He would need to talk to Oren later. Surely he was misunderstanding this offer? But Adelaide was waiting for a response, and this inner monologue needed to stop. "Agreed, quite reasonable. And your help is more than welcome. These lands are still strange to me, and lands further afield are a mystery. My companions may know them better than me... but I am sure more expertise is better." He looked to his other companions, new and old. "Celebangolad and I are ready to leave now, if everyone else is. He is enjoying his time with the children, but he is ready to return to the fight."