New Frontiers #110

[GM Mad]

New Frontiers #110


The drow prisoners are herded into the largest cell underneath the Duke of Elcadan’s castle. The door is locked and then Argent casts a Web in the cell, further imprisoning the drow.

From there, the group begins to move deeper into the castle Crypt. Dar Thaltus and Arocken of the Seekers lead the way, since both are scouts and can see in the dark. Following a discrete distance behind them is Sherra, Regnak, and Crysania. The rest of the group will bring up the rear. Argent casts Invisibility on herself and flies ahead to scout.

The door towards the crypt is passed through and your find yourselves in a 30’ long hallway that ends at another door. Much like the first door, the second door is ajar.

Behind that door is the crypt proper. It is a large, rectangular chamber measuring 50’ wide by 70’ deep. Numerous doors line the chamber, eight single doors in addition to the one you just passed through and a pair of double doors at the far end. Four pillars help support the chamber near the middle of the room.

Only the middle door on the left hand side of the chamber is currently open and a well-worn path leads up to it. Argent moves ahead of the scouts and flies into the door.

The door leads to one of the family crypts. Here, the walls are lined with shelves for caskets. Some of the shelves are occupied, but most are not. The chamber should only be twenty feet deep, but the back wall has been torn down to reveal a large natural cavern easily 100’ wide and deep at its longest points. An earthen ramp leads down to the caverns floor.

This cavern is the drow encampment. Numerous drow are present and many tents have been set up for sleeping. Many are just talking amongst themselves, while a few are resting.

From her high vantage point, Argent notes that there is a hole in the cavern floor. An opening nearly twenty feet wide that leads straight down into the depths of the earth. She also can’t help but note a large wagon sized egg sitting in a corner in the back of the cave! Whatever is growing inside of it must be huge! It is resting on red-hot coals that provide the chamber with a soft reddish light.

Most of the drow are wearing armor and can be ready for battle on a moment’s notice. However, there is one drow that stands out amongst the others. She’s taller than the rest and exotically beautiful with silvery white hair and purple eyes. This drow does not wear armor, but rather elegant robes of mauve with platinum embroidery on it.

Argent flies closer to overhear what this drow is talking about. As she does so, the drow in question happens to glance in Argent’s direction. The drow’s expression turns deadly serious and her eyes lock in on Argent as if she can see the invoker!

“To arms, sisters!” The drow cries out as she points in Argent’s direction. Argent’s earrings translate the drow’s words. “We have intruders! Slay them all in the name of our mistress Krazzora! Protect my beloved at all costs!”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Argent is about 40’ into the cavern and can easily fly back out, although she might have ranged weapons fire to deal with. I’d place Dar and Arocken near the door that leads to the smaller crypt and into the cave. They would have followed the footprints there. Dar and Arocken would have heard the drow’s words, but couldn’t have understood them. They would have signaled back that there was trouble.

That would put the group of Sherra, Regnak, and Crysania just passed the inner door main crypt chamber. The rest of the group is still back in the guard post area. Argent is a mere 130’ away from the main group, so you’re not all that far apart.

Thus far, Sir Acerion has yet to detect a source of evil and Ivy hasn’t noted the presence of undead.

Now what?

[Argent]

Argent:

“I agree as well about webbing them in, though it will be for naught if any have a Ring of Free Action.” He says evenly pointing out the possibility.

“True”, Argent answers. “But if they do, they’ll still be locked in a cell. They’ll have that to circumvent too.”

“Or perhaps something more.” He says in response to Argent.

“I have the feeling we’ll find out real fast,” Argent chuckles in response.

As Argent, prepares herself for scouting a head, Chareos adds with a lingering look as she departs, “Be careful.” Chareos will be ready to go down into the crypt Frostbrand in hand.

“Always am,” Argent mouths as she goes invisible.


Taking flight once more, Argent flies down the hallway and into the mausoleum. It’s just a large chamber that leads to the various smaller family crypts. However, one of the doors is open and theirs a noticeable path through the dust towards it. That has to be where the drow are coming from.

Swooping in, Argent finds that the back wall of the chamber has been removed and that a larger cave rests behind it! Inside are plenty of drow, a mysterious large egg, and a shaft going down. That must be where the drow came from. Another entrance to the Underdark!

An exotic drow maiden stands out from the rest due to her looks and style of dress. She just wears robes while the others are all in armor. This must be the Triel we’ve heard about. Triel looks at Argent and somehow knows that the Invoker is there!

"To arms, sisters!" The drow cries out as she points in Argent's direction. Argent's earrings translate the drow's words. "We have intruders! Slay them all in the name of our mistress Krazzora! Protect my beloved at all costs!"

“Ah, crud!” Argent mouths, wondering just how she did that.

No need to be subtle anymore, so Argent will fling a Fireball at the Triel before flying back to warn the others.

“We’ve got company!” Argent will call out as she flies back out of the cave. “They know we’re here!”

[Corley]

Sir Corley:

"Also remember to keep your steel sheathed or hidden," Sherra reminds. "The glint of a blade is as bad as a lantern in such darkness."

“Sage council, Lady Sherra,” Sir Corley compliments.

The scouts move out and Lady Argent vanishes. Corley waits with the main group in the guard area while the others move ahead. He can just barely make out the group of Lady Sherra, Lady Crysania and Regnak ahead of them.

Then there is a loud explosion that sounds very much like a Fireball going off! Was the Lady Argent attacked or was this her doing?

"We've got company!" Argent will call out as she flies back out of the cave. "They know we're here!"

“Move forward!” Sir Corley shouts upon hearing this. “We join the Lady Sherra’s group and form a defensive line. Warriors to the front, those with ranged attacks and spellcasters to the back! Let’s see what sort of forces we are facing.”

[Ivy]

Ivy:

"Only she would know that," Acerion replies. "You said she has told you things. Are you able to speak with her as well? If so, you might be able to learn the truth of it."

“I got the sense that she was telling me things that she could not in life,” Ivy answers. “Not that this was something I could do when I wished. But she did say that we would speak again, so perhaps I am mistaken.”

Ivy watches the scouts move forward and will say a prayer for their safety. After hearing the explosion, Ivy casts Bless on the group.

“Move forward!” Sir Corley shouts upon hearing this. “We join the Lady Sherra’s group and form a defensive line. Warriors to the front, those with ranged attacks and spellcasters to the back! Let’s see what sort of forces we are facing.”

Upon completing her spell, Ivy chases after the others. She commands her mace to glow, illuminating the area. She’ll remain behind the front line, ready to support them with either spell or healing.

[Serena]

Serena:

Serena hears the Fireball go off in the distance. It appears that the time for subtly has reached its end. Serena will let the front line fighters pass her as they move deeper into the crypt. She’ll remain behind the front line, ready to assist with her spells as needed.

[Crysania]

Crysania:

Thanks to her Omniscient Eye spell, Crysania can see just fine in the dark. She’ll follow the elfin scouts, keeping them just at the edge of her vision. The Priestess will point out any obstacles that maybe encountered along the way to her companions. An explosion is heard quickly followed by Argent’s warning.

“Stay here,” Crysania tells her companions. “I’m going to catch up the Dar and Arocken to make sure they are not over run by drow!”

Crysania runs off towards the elfin scouts.

[Chareos]

Chareos

Hearing the explosion up ahead Chareos can only imagine what has traspired and even worse the thought of now knowing what happened to Argent knaws at his heart, "Argent!" he yells as he hears Sir Corley Issue commands while Ivy casts a spell. Shaking the thoughts of Argent's well being from his mind, he recites the words to a Mirror Image spell, then gathers up his Frostbrand and move to the second line to help out with his spells and to fill in any gaps that may arise.

If he sees a large group of Drow before him he will Drop a fireball or Ice Storm into their ranks, if the scouts are in the way, he will merely wait and see.

[Xander Churr]

Regnak

The unmistakable sound of an explosion rips through the crypt as it echoes off the walls. The only question is was Argent and the others spotted and dealt with or the other way around. Having no helpful protection spells within his memory, Rek forgoes casting anything. Having his Morningstar and short sword in hand, Rek will stay where he is awaiting Sir Corley and the others to form up on him, and await anything that comes through that passageway.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

"We've got company!" Argent will call out as she flies back out of the cave. "They know we're here!"

“Move forward!” Sir Corley shouts upon hearing this. “We join the Lady Sherra’s group and form a defensive line. Warriors to the front, those with ranged attacks and spellcasters to the back! Let’s see what sort of forces we are facing.”

Sherra slips into the darkness off to one side of the main line, ready to use her blades at range or melee as the situation unfolds. She is careful not to move in front of any spellcasters or be in the path of any weapons. She figures the enemy can see her but will still be as stealthy as she can.

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

“I got the sense that she was telling me things that she could not in life,” Ivy answers. “Not that this was something I could do when I wished. But she did say that we would speak again, so perhaps I am mistaken.”

"I have learned many things in my travels," Acerion replies, "most of all that nothing should be considered final, especially death."

“Move forward!” Sir Corley shouts upon hearing this. “We join the Lady Sherra’s group and form a defensive line. Warriors to the front, those with ranged attacks and spellcasters to the back! Let’s see what sort of forces we are facing.”

Having not detected any evil, Acerion can only wonder how far or what sort of foe might have found them. He will move up into the front ranks and ready his holy axe.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:


The adventurers have penetrated the crypt of Elcadan Castle! Inside, Argent has discovered a cavern filled with drow! The seeming leader of the drow, an exotic dark elf maiden somehow spots Argent in spite of her being Invisible and warns her comrades. In response to this, Argent flings a Fireball that explodes all around Triel.

Triel seems more annoyed from the attack than hurt. The drow close to her, both male and female, are badly injured. Some fall to the cavern floor, while others try to continue on. Triel’s robe is on fire and she quickly discards it, revealing her naked body underneath.

While the other drow scramble to the attack, Triel remains standing still, as if locked in concentration. Her form begins to change and grow! Her jet-black skin becomes lighter to an iridescent maroon in shade. Triel’s skin becomes more reptilian in nature and Argent realizes that Triel is actually a dragon of some type! Argent flies back out of the cave with bolts fired from drow hand crossbows chasing her.


Out in the burial chamber itself, the rest of the adventurers heard the explosions and Argent’s warning. The main group rushes into the mausoleum and joins up with all of the scouts. The pillars in the middle of the room are used to form a front line that splits the crypt in half. Sir Acerion joins Sir Corley, Regnak, Crysania, Cereld, Blod, Arocken, and Dar Thaltus on the front line with everyone else further back. Sherra moves into the shadows of one of the pillars, ready to fling her blades when able.

Ivy blesses the group while Chareos casts Mirror Image and there is suddenly six of him.

Argent flies out of the open door and hovers overhead and behind the group. She relates what she saw to the others as you wait for the drow to arrive.

The area grows darker as the drow draw closer. The dark elves use their natural ability to block light to clear the way before them. However, their darkness is no match for the magical illumination provided by the holy weapons for Sir Acerion and Ivy, so there is some light that can be seen.

The drow pour out into the chamber and combat begins. Sherra throws her blades, while the mages send attack spells the enemy’s way. (The area is really too small for larger Area Effect spells, such as Fireball, Lightning Bolt, or Ice Storm, so smaller scale spells or single target spells are the way to go. Such spells would have to be cast behind the enemy so as to have the front edge cover them but not your own side.)

The front line fighters greet those drow that survive the ranged and magical attacks. Combat is fierce but becomes quickly one sided as the enemies skills are nowhere near those of the heroes. In less than a minute, the drow are down and defeated.

But their leader is still active. You can hear the sound of something digging furiously, as if the dragon was trying to claw its way into the mausoleum. But as the last drow falls to the crypt floor, all goes silent. Then you hear what sounds like the dragon taking in a large breath from down the small hallway that leads to the cavern.


Now what?

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Forgot to mention this when I posted. Sir Acerion will start to sense evil as the drow draw closer, but it is of the mundage earthly variety. No undead are detected by Ivy.

Stone and other solid barriers block dectections.

[Argent]

Argent:

Somehow Argent isn’t all that surprised when Triel resists her Fireball. What does surprise her is when she starts to change into a dragon! And a dragon of a color unfamiliar to her! With bolts starting to fly her way, Argent withdraws.

“We’ve gotta dragon in there!” Argent will call out. Maybe that egg was hers? Mothers are always very protective of their unborn children.

The others are ready for the drow charge, but the combat area is very small. Too small to dare another Fireball or even a Lightning Bolt. So Argent will toss a Magic Missile or two but stop once it becomes clear that the enemy isn’t strong enough to be a serious threat. The drow go down and all that remains is mama dragon.

The sound of the dragon taking a large breath reaches Argent’s ears and she’ll yell, “Take cover! It’s going to breath!”

With that Argent will fly back towards the prison cells in an effort to be well away from the breath weapon.

[Corley]

Corley:

A defensive line is form and the warriors take their position. Darkness precedes the drow’s arrival, but it is no match for the light emanating from the weapons of Sir Acerion and Lady Ivy.

Then the drow arrive and battle is engaged. The fighting is furious for a time, but it soon becomes clear that they are not as skilled as we. The drow quickly begin to dwindle in numbers.

All through out the combat, the sounds of some great beast digging are heard. This must be the dragon that Lady Argent spoke of. All is quiet and then the sound of a great breath being taken is heard.

The sound of the dragon taking a large breath reaches Argent’s ears and she’ll yell, “Take cover! It’s going to breath!”

“Back off!” Sir Corley calls out. “Move away from that opening!”

Once everyone else is far enough away, Sir Corley will join his companions.

“Clearly we no longer have a problem with the drow, but rather their dragon ally. As I understand it, once a dragon breathes it cannot do so again for a short time. Therefore, once the attack has dissipated I will charge the beast in an attempt to slay it. Who’s with me?”

Sir Corley will only take volunteer’s as this is a dangerous mission and not everyone here is cut out to battle a dragon.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

"I have learned many things in my travels," Acerion replies, "most of all that nothing should be considered final, especially death."

“Something that I know all too well,” Ivy answers with a chuckle, referring to her own death all those many weeks ago.

Battle is engaged and thankfully Ivy’s healing touch is needed. The drow were not as skilled in battle as our warriors are.

Then word comes that there is a dragon here too and that it is going to breath!

Ivy will dash back and huddle near the others. Should the group be struck by the attack, Ivy will cast healing magic through her mace to heal those around her.

Sir Corley then announces his intent to charge the dragon as it cannot attack in such a manner right away. Turning to Sir Acerion, Ivy will say, “Be careful”, fully expecting him to join the assault.

Ivy will remain behind and be ready to heal the wounded as need be.

[Xander Churr]

Regnak

“We’ve gotta dragon in there!” Argent will call out. Maybe that egg was hers? Mothers are always very protective of their unborn children.

“Drow keep Dragons?” As he runs back to take cover with the others. When Sir Corley speaks.

“Clearly we no longer have a problem with the drow, but rather their dragon ally. As I understand it, once a dragon breathes it cannot do so again for a short time. Therefore, once the attack has dissipated I will charge the beast in an attempt to slay it. Who’s with me?”

“Though every fiber of my being screams no, I am no coward. I will stand with you.” Rek will follow Sir Corley into the deep weapons in hand

[Chareos]

Chareos

Hearing the call of Dragon, Chareos let’s out a low curse, “Why can’t there ever be good dragons…” he says as he hides back to the others hoping that his stoneskin will hold.

Hearing the Call to arms from Sir Corley, Chareos looks to Argent for but a moment then to Sir Corley. “My blade and magic are with you, Old friend.” When the charge comes Chareos will follow, Once the beast is seen and within Range, he will Welcome it to Elcadan with an Iron Spikes Spell. (If he still lives =P)

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

The drow are no match for the combined arms of the paladin and his companions. However, there is a threat further in that Acerion is concerned about.

The sound of the dragon taking a large breath reaches Argent’s ears and she’ll yell, “Take cover! It’s going to breath!”

“Back off!” Sir Corley calls out. “Move away from that opening!”

Acerion backs away quickly, finding a good spot to be shielded from whatever breath weapon the dragon possesses. Once the danger has passed, Corley wishes to charge.

“Clearly we no longer have a problem with the drow, but rather their dragon ally. As I understand it, once a dragon breathes it cannot do so again for a short time. Therefore, once the attack has dissipated I will charge the beast in an attempt to slay it. Who’s with me?”

"I am with you," Acerion says simply. Before he leaves, he will turn to Ivy. "I shall return my love," he says encouragingly. When the time is right, Acerion will take the fight to the dragon.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Sherra is a bit surprised at how quickly these drow fall. Maybe they aren't as crafty and deadly as we all were led to believe, she thinks to herself. Still she will remain alert in case any remain in the dark in attempt to be sneaky. Suddenly there is a warning of a dragon getting ready to breathe. Sherra was pretty far removed but will ensure she isn't anywhere near the opening.

“Clearly we no longer have a problem with the drow, but rather their dragon ally. As I understand it, once a dragon breathes it cannot do so again for a short time. Therefore, once the attack has dissipated I will charge the beast in an attempt to slay it. Who’s with me?”

"I will remain here," Sherra says, as charging a dragon is not her idea of bravery, breath weapon or not. She will keep a perimiter around those staying behind to ensure nothing sneaks up on them and await the others' return.

[Serena]

Serena:

Serena remains behind he front line, ready to cast spells or offer healing magic, but it really isn’t needed. The call goes out that we face a dragon as well and it is about to breath! Since Serena wasn’t that far into the chamber, exiting it again is not a problem.

Sir Corley states a plan of action:

“Clearly we no longer have a problem with the drow, but rather their dragon ally. As I understand it, once a dragon breathes it cannot do so again for a short time. Therefore, once the attack has dissipated I will charge the beast in an attempt to slay it. Who’s with me?”

“I will provide support,” Serena will say. Once those who charge do so, Serena will cautiously follow and see how she can help.

[Crysania]

Crysania:

Crysania stands ready to face the drow charge. She’s fought this particular evil many times before and once more they fall. It is learned that a dragon is also present and it seems to be preparing to breath, making it prudent to evacuate the area.

After the expected attack comes and goes,

“Clearly we no longer have a problem with the drow, but rather their dragon ally. As I understand it, once a dragon breathes it cannot do so again for a short time. Therefore, once the attack has dissipated I will charge the beast in an attempt to slay it. Who’s with me?”

“Count me in,” Crysania states. “I’ve encountered dragons many times before. We once even faced two black dragons while exploring a ruin and slew them both.”

“Though every fiber of my being screams no, I am no coward. I will stand with you.” Rek will follow Sir Corley into the deep weapons in hand.

“It’s not a question of bravery, Regnak,” Crysania will softly say. “Dragons are unlike any foe an adventurer will face. There is dragon fear to contend with and many a worthy individual has fled from the wyrm in uncontrollable fear. In this instance, no one will think any lesser of you for staying behind.”

Once the command to charge is given, Crysania will do so with her battle axe in hand.

[Argent]

Argent:

“Clearly we no longer have a problem with the drow, but rather their dragon ally. As I understand it, once a dragon breathes it cannot do so again for a short time. Therefore, once the attack has dissipated I will charge the beast in an attempt to slay it. Who’s with me?”

“I’ll follow from a distance and use my spells as needed,” Argent will say when it comes to speak.

Argent will fly after those who charge, but keep her distance. Lightning Bolt would be her first choice of spell to attack with, but if that’s not feasible go with Magic Missile.

[Corley]

Corley:

“Though every fiber of my being screams no, I am no coward. I will stand with you.” Rek will follow Sir Corley into the deep weapons in hand.

“It’s not a question of bravery, Regnak,” Crysania will softly say. “Dragons are unlike any foe an adventurer will face. There is dragon fear to contend with and many a worthy individual has fled from the wyrm in uncontrollable fear. In this instance, no one will think any lesser of you for staying behind.”

“Lady Crysania speaks truly,” Sir Corley will add. “That is why I asked only for volunteers. Dragon fear is real and no one who has experienced it before would brand you a coward for remaining behind. However, the choice is yours.”


The others present speak up. Some will join in the charge, others offer support, and the rest remain behind. Sir Corley has nothing further to add and will wait until it is appropriate to charge.

[Xander Churr]

Regnak

“It’s not a question of bravery, Regnak,” Crysania will softly say. “Dragons are unlike any foe an adventurer will face. There is dragon fear to contend with and many a worthy individual has fled from the wyrm in uncontrollable fear. In this instance, no one will think any lesser of you for staying behind.”

“This is not a time of debate nor discussion on matters concerning that beast. It is here, I will face it to whatever end.” He says stubbornly. “Consider it a test of valor.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:


Underneath Castle Elcadan, the Guardians and their Seeker allies have fought and defeated the drow presence here. However, their leader remains and she is far more than a drow. The one the drow prisoners spoke of, Triel, is a dragon of some previously unknown kind! Her scales are iridescent maroon in color.

The dragon is furiously trying to dig its way into the mausoleum when it senses that its charges have been defeated. Eager to avenge them, the dragon prepares to breath! The heroes hear this and wisely move way.

A dark cloud of gas issues forth from the hallway between the burial crypt and the natural cave the drow used to come up from the depths of the earth. The gas billows into the chamber and starts to spread out in the confined space.

The heroes moved far enough away to avoid the affects of the gas, but what it does to the fallen drow does make your blood run cold. The flesh of the fallen drow begins to boil and bubble, as if it was immersed in acid! The skin dissolves away to reveal the skeletons inside. The drow’s chainmail armor and their weapons are unaffected by the cloud. The gas just eats the flesh of living beings!

Sir Corley gives the command to charge. The young knight dashes forward towards the entrance with Sir Acerion, and Crysania right behind him. Following those three are Chareos, Regnak, Cereld, Blod, Arocken and Dar Thaltus. Argent and Serena will bring up the rear once the rest of the group as engaged the dragon.

Sir Corley, Sir Acerion, and Crysania enter the burial chamber that connects the two chambers. The back to of the crypt has been heavily damaged thanks to the dragon’s claws. It’s clear that this beast can dig through stone just as easily as one can shovel through dirt!

Triel is 85’ long from tail tip to snout. She’s waiting for you to arrive, having positioned herself in a way that it will be hard for you to get past her into the larger cave.

The first three rush the dragon with their weapons drawn. Sir Acerion’s Shield of Justice grants him the ability to inspire courage in his companions, which he does to bolster their resistance to dragon fear. As the three reach twenty feet from the dragon, the fear washes over them. Sir Acerion and Crysania fight it off, but it consumes Sir Corley.

The dragon moving with snake-like speed strikes! It’s jaws reach out and lock on to frozen Sir Corley, lifting the knight off the ground! Its teeth penetrate his armor, biting into the flesh underneath.

The dragon’s claws lash out at its other two enemies. Armor is no barrier to claws that can carve through stone like a hot knife thru butter. Sir Acerion avoids the attack that comes his way, but Crysania is hit and thrown back, her armor pierced and her skin bloodied.

Sir Acerion dives underneath the claw attack and comes up beside the dragon’s long neck. His axe rises up and comes down in again in powerful attack that drives deep into the dragon’s skin! Sir Acerion’s assault splits open the dragon’s neck and hits a blood vein. Dragon blood spews forth like gusher, covering the area.

The dragon growls in agony from the assault, dropping Sir Corley in the process. It backs up as if trying to withdraw from the battle.

The next rank surges into the chamber and closes in on the dragon. Dragon fear washes over them as they approach. Chareos fights off the affects and casts Iron Spikes. The five metal missiles issue from his hand and unerringly strike the dragon, wounding it more.

Cereld stops in his charge, the dragon fear affecting the Priest of Heironeous. Instead, he turns and runs away! Cereld’s Seeker companions fare better and Blod, Arocken, and Dar Thaltus rush the wounded dragon. Blod sinks his two-handed sword into the dragon’s flank, while the wyrm’s scales turned Arocken and Dar Thaltus’s attacks away.

Regnak fights off the dragon fear and moves closer as the dragon turns away. His morning star just bounces off the beasts’ side.

Trailing behind the warriors, Argent and Serena prepare to cast spells. Both ladies keep far enough away to be unaffected by the dragon fear. A pair of Magic Missile spells is unleashed, although Argent’s sparkle and twinkle in comparison to Serena’s. The twin attack slam into the dragon further wounded it.

The dragon has turned around by now and is rushing towards the large hole in the cavern floor. As it moves, its form wavers once more. Its legs seem to be retracting into the body and it’s whole taking on a more snake-like appearance.

However, Sir Acerion strikes once more just as the head of the dragon-snake reaches the shaft. The Axe of Valorous drives deep once more into the side of the monster. Blood explodes out once more, but this time the dragon stops moving and convulses before breathing its last. The dragon is dead! Upon dying, the dragon reverts to its full dragon form.


There are no other threats present in the chamber. Both Sir Acerion and Serena will note the dragon egg in the chamber. It does resemble the one they encountered in the temple raid in New Keln that held the embryo of Ember.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

That wasn’t too bad. Triel was a Deep Dragon, an Underdark type of dragon. They can assume humanoid form and that of a giant snake, along with their draconic form.

Those experiencing Dragon Fear will have it fade as the dragon dies.

Hit Points:

Sir Corley: 56 of 74
Crysania: 73 of 84

Now what?

[Xander Churr]

Regnak

The heroes moved far enough away to avoid the affects of the gas, but what it does to the fallen drow does make your blood run cold. The flesh of the fallen drow begins to boil and bubble, as if it was immersed in acid! The skin dissolves away to reveal the skeletons inside. The drow’s chainmail armor and their weapons are unaffected by the cloud. The gas just eats the flesh of living beings!

Regnak looks at the devestation that the dragon’s breath does to the fallen drow, His stomach revolts against the site as he covers his mouth. “Perhaps I was mistaken…” he says to no one in general as it takes in the horrible site.

Regnak fights off the dragon fear and moves closer as the dragon turns away. His morning star just bounces off the beasts’ side.

The fear seeps into himself, ‘I will not run, I can do this.’ He thinks to himself as he wills himself forward even though the site of Sir Corley being crushed between its jaws. “Hold on Sir Corley!” he yells hoping the knight still lives. He bashes his Morningstar into the side of the beast, though the skin of the dragon repels the weapon. Looking down at the Morningstar he can’t help but wonder if its defective, but it seems intact.

Seemingly having no way of hurting this beast he cautiously moves back as the others deal with the beast.

Regnak will convert his Spiritual Hammer spell into a Cure wounds equivalent and direct it on Sir Corley, “How are you feeling?” he asks the knight.

[Chareos]

Chareos

The heroes moved far enough away to avoid the affects of the gas, but what it does to the fallen drow does make your blood run cold. The flesh of the fallen drow begins to boil and bubble, as if it was immersed in acid! The skin dissolves away to reveal the skeletons inside. The drow’s chainmail armor and their weapons are unaffected by the cloud. The gas just eats the flesh of living beings!

As the gas subsides, Chareos peeks out from his hiding place and sees the skin boil and melt as the white bones of the skeleton emerge. Chareos can only watch in horrified fascination at such a site.

Rushing forward as the time comes Chareos feels the Dragon fear embraces him but quickly shakes it free. Quickly casting an Iron spikes spell, 5 of them erupt from his fingertips and strike the dragon.

In moments the Dragon retreats under the onslaught it is faced but Sir Acerion buries his axe within the Dragons next. He can’t help but wonder as the Dragons form once again wavers into a snake to its original form.

Never seen such a Dragon before Chareos will go and look at it, he will look how thick the scales are as well as the claws and teeth. “I can’t help but wonder if any of this creatures could be used. Perhaps armor can be made from its scales?”

[Corley]

Corley:

"This is not a time of debate nor discussion on matters concerning that beast. It is here, I will face it to whatever end." He says stubbornly. "Consider it a test of valor."

“Let us hope that you are not found lacking, my friend.”


Sir Corley watches in horror as the dragon’s breath melts the flesh of the drow away. Draconic breath weapons are never pleasant to behold, but this one is particularly gruesome.

Once the gas dissipates, Sir Corley gives the command to charge. The dragon is rushed and the dreaded Dragon Fear envelops him! Before he can act, the wyrm grabs Sir Corley and bites him. Almost the next thing Sir Corley knows, the fear is gone and he’s on the ground slightly wounded.

Regnak will convert his Spiritual Hammer spell into a Cure wounds equivalent and direct it on Sir Corley, "How are you feeling?" he asks the knight.

“It appears that I should have heeded by own warning,” Sir Corley says with a grin. “I’ve had worse experiences than this. Thank you for your assistance.”

Once on his feet, Sir Corley can see that the wyrm has been slain and Sir Acerion seems to have done the most damage to the beast.

“Well done, Sir Acerion,” Sir Corley will offer. “I wish I could have been more helpful, but it seems that you have things well in hand. Let us now secure the castle and move forward with our plans.”

Turning to the assembled group, Sir Corley will say, “The worst of the danger here is most likely passed. However, we cannot assume so. Therefore, split up into groups no smaller than two. Explore the rest of the castle and make sure there are no other threats present. Once this edifice is secured, we’ll take the drow to confront the Old Duke’s Guard and put an end to this stalemate.”

Looking around, Sir Corley adds, “Any have any idea what that egg is? Is it a dragon egg? Also we need to do something with this carcass. I am confident that the Duke and Duchess of Elcadan do not wish it to remain in their new home. Do we have any way to seal this hole to prevent more fell creatures from the Underdark from invading?”

[Argent]

Argent:

Argent forces herself to look away when the she sees the affects of that dragon’s breath. That’s nasty!

Once the warriors have engaged the dragon, Argent flies in following Serena. She casts Magic Missile, but it’s clear that Sir Acerion did the most damage to the dragon. It quickly goes down.

Turning to the assembled group, Sir Corley will say, “The worst of the danger here is most likely passed. However, we cannot assume so. Therefore, split up into groups no smaller than two. Explore the rest of the castle and make sure there are no other threats present. Once this edifice is secured, we’ll take the drow to confront the Old Duke’s Guard and put an end to this stalemate.”

“Might as well see what sort of treasure this maroon dragon had,” Argent says. “Perhaps gems, jewels, maybe even some spells!”

Argent will check out the drow cave for what treasure it might hold.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

Ivy is horrified at the sight of the dragon’s breath weapon in action! They might have been drow, but that is just too horrid for any being to endure.

After the sound of battle has ended, Ivy will go see if any healing is needed. As she makes her way into the cave, she spies the huge dragon lying there dead. Crysania is down, but she heals herself and will wave Ivy off. Regnak is by Sir Corley taking care of him.

Moving deeper into the cave, Ivy can see Sir Acerion standing there. He’s cover head to toe in blood!

“ACERION!” Ivy calls out in a combination of horror and shock. Fearing that her beloved has been mortally wounded, Ivy will run over and cast a Cure spell on him immediately.

“Are you alright? Can you speak?”

[Crysania]

Crysania:


Crysania looks on grimly as the dragon’s breath does it damage to the fallen drow. If there were any survivors among them, there are none now.

Battle axe in hand, Crysania follows the knights on their charge. The dragon lashes out with its claws, catching Crysania in her chest. The attack forces her backwards and off her feet. By the time Crysania regains her wits the battle is over. Sir Acerion landed the fatal blows and the dragon dies.

Crysania sees Ivy and waves her off. She uses her own magic to heal her wound, although her armor will need to be repaired before being used again.

Once on her feet, Crysania will look about the chamber.

Turning to the assembled group, Sir Corley will say, “The worst of the danger here is most likely passed. However, we cannot assume so. Therefore, split up into groups no smaller than two. Explore the rest of the castle and make sure there are no other threats present. Once this edifice is secured, we’ll take the drow to confront the Old Duke’s Guard and put an end to this stalemate.”

Crysania nods her understanding. She’ll head out with the others to finish exploring the castle and making sure that no other dangers remain.

[Serena]

Serena:

Serena adds a Magic Missile to the battle, but it is weapons that down the dragon not magic. Looking around the chamber, Serena can’t help but notice the giant and familiar looking egg.

Looking around, Sir Corley adds, “Any have any idea what that egg is? Is it a dragon egg? Also we need to do something with this carcass. I am confident that the Duke and Duchess of Elcadan do not wish it to remain in their new home. Do we have any way to seal this hole to prevent more fell creatures from the Underdark from invading?”

“That looks very much like the Ember egg we found in New Keln,” the priestess notes. “This must be another location where the dragon eggs were hid. It must be destroyed.”

Serena will cast were remaining two Magic Missiles into the egg, hoping to destroy it.

“As for the shaft, I can cover it with a Wall of Iron, but the opening needs to be cleared first.”

Never seen such a Dragon before Chareos will go and look at it, he will look how thick the scales are as well as the claws and teeth. "I can't help but wonder if any of this creatures could be used. Perhaps armor can be made from its scales?"

“Yes, it can be used in such a manner,” Serena will answer. “Armorers will pay handsomely for dragon hide. It can be used to make armor and shields. It can also be enchanted, but the price is rather high for such a thing.”


Serena will not go forth and explore. She’ll remain present to see what will be done with the dragon carcass and than sealing the shaft with her Wall of Iron.

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

Sir Corley doesn't fare well against this dragon's fear effect, but Acerion pushes forward. The paladin's holy axe bites deep into the dragon, it's pain evident to all. Still it fights on through steel and spell before finally turning to flee.

The dragon has turned around by now and is rushing towards the large hole in the cavern floor. As it moves, its form wavers once more. Its legs seem to be retracting into the body and it’s whole taking on a more snake-like appearance.

However, Sir Acerion strikes once more just as the head of the dragon-snake reaches the shaft. The Axe of Valorous drives deep once more into the side of the monster. Blood explodes out once more, but this time the dragon stops moving and convulses before breathing its last. The dragon is dead! Upon dying, the dragon reverts to its full dragon form.

Acerion lands what is to be the fatal blow. His concern then shifts to that of his friends and companions, but it is immediately apparent there is concern for him.

“ACERION!” Ivy calls out in a combination of horror and shock. Fearing that her beloved has been mortally wounded, Ivy will run over and cast a Cure spell on him immediately.

“Are you alright? Can you speak?”

"I am fine, trust me, save your spells sweet Ivy," Acerion says hoping to catch her before she can complete the incantation. There is no need to waste whatever spell she felt she needed to cast. "It is the dragon's blood I am covered head to toe in apparently," he explains. "I feel I will be spending the entire evening just cleaning up," he adds with a bit of mirth.

“Well done, Sir Acerion,” Sir Corley will offer. “I wish I could have been more helpful, but it seems that you have things well in hand. Let us now secure the castle and move forward with our plans.”

"Thanks my friend," Acerion replies. "Do not worry about your honor in this though for your bravery was shown from the initial charge and no one will think less of you from falling under the effects of such a monstrosity."

Never seen such a Dragon before Chareos will go and look at it, he will look how thick the scales are as well as the claws and teeth. "I can't help but wonder if any of this creatures could be used. Perhaps armor can be made from its scales?"

“Yes, it can be used in such a manner,” Serena will answer. “Armorers will pay handsomely for dragon hide. It can be used to make armor and shields. It can also be enchanted, but the price is rather high for such a thing.”

"Yes and possibly a few weapons made from the best of the beast's fangs and claws," Acerion adds, "if the right smiths can be found and employed. Cloaks might be possible from its hide, but again it depends on what's left. It would be worth it to salvage what we can and pursue such avenues. Those interested in such items should be allowed to pursue such crafting and enchanting."

Acerion is one of those so interested. A shield would be the best situation as more people could benefit from the remains, but it just depends on just how much can be gathered. A full suit of armor would require a lot of materials, while merely constructing shields would yield more items.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Sherra is glad to hear that the battle is over and the dragon is slain. The injuries don't appear to be too bad and for that Sherra quietly thanks Tymora.

Talk comes to that of the dragon remains and to salvage pieces from it. If a dagger could be crafted from a tooth or claw, Sherra will definitely be interested in that.

[Corley]

Sir Corley:

“That looks very much like the Ember egg we found in New Keln,” the priestess notes. “This must be another location where the dragon eggs were hid. It must be destroyed.”

Serena will cast were remaining two Magic Missiles into the egg, hoping to destroy it.

“I see,” Sir Corley states when Lady Serena explains her theory on just what the giant egg is. “Then by all means remove the threat.”

“As for the shaft, I can cover it with a Wall of Iron, but the opening needs to be cleared first.”

“Then do so, milady,” Sir Corley commands. Seeing so much interest in the dragon’s body, Sir Corley will ask for assistance in at least moving the dragon’s head away from the shaft so that it can be magically sealed.

"Thanks my friend," Acerion replies. "Do not worry about your honor in this though for your bravery was shown from the initial charge and no one will think less of you from falling under the effects of such a monstrosity."

“Rest assured, my friend, my honor is intact,” Sir Corley responds. “The outcome of the skirmish is most satisfactory, even if my role in it was not. And in the final analysis, that is what matters the most.”

[Ivy]

Ivy:

"I am fine, trust me, save your spells sweet Ivy," Acerion says hoping to catch her before she can complete the incantation. There is no need to waste whatever spell she felt she needed to cast. "It is the dragon's blood I am covered head to toe in apparently," he explains. "I feel I will be spending the entire evening just cleaning up," he adds with a bit of mirth.

“By the Goddess, don’t scare me like that!” Ivy says in a mixture of relief and annoyance. “I thought something happened to you.”

Ivy takes a few moments to regain her composure after making sure that Sir Acerion is fine, she’ll go with the others to remove any other threats in the castle.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed