Szith Morcane

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Dec 9, 2025 3:49 pm
Your spot was well chosen and though you hear the grinding of stone as the Umberhulks pass through tunnels around you the beasts themselves do not come close. You wake when everyone has rested and by the middle of the day you find yourselves near the gates of Szith Morcane.

The very first thing you note is the lack of any Drow snipers hiding along the way and while it is assuredly possible that you didn't see them, the second thing you notice brings that previous item back into stark clarity because when you are at the gate no one challenges you. This may be a small trading post with just one merchant family in charge but, you should have been challenged at the very least.

DC 14 Perception: There are sounds at the arrow slits, someone is eating something there. Taking a careful look you can see a decaying Zombie slowly snacking on the remains of the guard that was formerly here.
Dec 9, 2025 4:05 pm
[Updated]
OOC:
So as I understand it, not only are there no drow snipers and no challengepresent, there are no living creatures at all?

Correct, just some zombies eating the previous guards. If you notice them...
Kalafain eyes the strangely empty scene with curiosity that soon turns to suspicion. "Something is not right there..." His words trail off as his mind begins to formulate possibilities
OOC:
Poor blind bastard. He'll never see it coming.
Last edited December 10, 2025 3:08 pm

Rolls

Perception DC 14 - (1d20+6)

(2) + 6 = 8

Dec 9, 2025 4:24 pm
Bor stands stalwart, his four foot tall frame standing ready for pending danger! Yes, something is wrong, he signs in reply. His hands only briefly away from his shield and weapon.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(16) + 4 = 20

Dec 9, 2025 8:30 pm
Her invisible familiar, Yao Pu, still scouting but unable to resist sticking his officious little nose into everyone's business, comes over to take a look at the zombie.

"Let's kill the corpsewalker quickly, then check to see if the guard had orders or other indications of what went down here."

Not willing to waste a spell on what she perceives to be just a zombie, Burny stays back but fires a pair of Eldritch Blasts from her familiar's location while sending her arcane eye past to scout beyond what we could see.
OOC:
Sorry, misunderstood what was going on, so if you will allow me to walk this back, I will wait for a scouting report.
Last edited December 10, 2025 8:24 pm

Rolls

Perception (arcane eye) - (1d20+5)

(3) + 5 = 8

Eldritch Blast - (1d20+9)

(18) + 9 = 27

Damage (+push back 10') - (2d10+10)

(26) + 10 = 18

Dec 9, 2025 8:42 pm
Ryo'fein spotted the zombies right away, and signed to the others, pointing them out. Putting up his piwafi, he moved on ahead to do his job as the scout.
OOC:
Can Ryo get closer to see how many zombies are up there, and also just try to see what's beyond the walls? I'll roll a stealth check.
[ +- ] Lesser Piwafi
Last edited December 9, 2025 8:43 pm

Rolls

Perception (with Guidance) - (1d20+7+1d4)

(15) + (3) + 7 = 25

Stealth (with Guidance) - (1d20+12+1d4)

(20) + (1) + 12 = 33

Dec 10, 2025 12:14 am
If there are more than one when Yao Pu gets within sight range, that may change my actions.
Dec 10, 2025 7:02 pm
https://i.ibb.co/GQh7945b/Bridge.jpg
Yao Pu and Ryo'fein scout ahead. Ryo, climbs up the walled palisade next to the door as if it were a ladder and Yao Pu simply floats over. On the other side the pair find the remnants of two guards still being chewed on by ten or so zombies while six skeletons wearing the remnants of guard uniforms wander around the area between the door and the next set of defenses.

The set of defenses beyond the door and palisade is the remnants of a ten-foot-long stone bridge over a chasm filled with spikes. In addition to the ten zombies wandering between the palisade and the door you also note quite a number of holes drilled into the stone here. It is easy to guess that someone attacked the gate with a large force of undead.

Yao Pu, is able to fly past the Zombies and scout a bit further past the destroyed bridge. Two stone pillars stand next to the bridge with steel doors shut and, in the arrow slits, the Imp can see living guards huddled in the relative safety of the pillar. Beyond the pillars there is a small, and now destroyed market, and what looks to be a lift to go down into the rest of the outpost.

All in all, the small army of undead at the gates might have been a challenge for some simple Drow guards but, compared to the skilled Drow of House Platin they might as well be a walk in the park.
OOC:
I'm not making you roll anything against what are basically 1/2 HD creatures.
Also my sincere apologies for the map yes I know what it looks like let's just ignore that and move on....

https://i.ibb.co/GQh7945b/Bridge.jpg

Dec 10, 2025 7:54 pm
OOC:
@Ysolde the image doesn't show up for me.

Try: https://i.ibb.co/GQh7945b/Bridge.jpg

Having gotten a good look and assessed the situation, Ryo'fein slunk back to the party to give them the layout of the area and the defenses around it.

"They're easy enough to handle, but if someone controls them, that one may pose a problem, so going in force would be best."

He looked to the priestesses to the others to hear their thoughts.
Dec 12, 2025 5:11 pm
Bor readies hammer and shield!
Stubby dwarven fingers and facial expressions offer signing for, You know I’m ready to go! I’m ready for a fight!
Dec 12, 2025 7:24 pm
Your group along with the summoned Imp are easily able to kill the small horde of undead. It takes a few moments and your armor is decorated with the remnants of the zombies and skeletons.

All in all, it was easier than having to watch one of the House Platin younglings. Some of you may still have nightmares from those experiences....

The only problem you come to is the bridge, which is ruined and trapped. Sure, parts of it are technically standing but, the pile of corpses on the spikes below suggest that doing so would be rather unsafe. The chasm is about sixty feet across though cut, it wouldn't be impossible to climb across or send Yao Pu over with some ropes...
OOC:
DC 18 to simply cross the bridge: Failure means 10d6 piercing from the stakes and 3d6 bludgeoning damage from the fall.
Dec 12, 2025 7:58 pm
"That chasm, I can send my familiar over with one end of a 100 feet of rope. Can fly 3 of us over in a pinch if no one has enough rope, I am not carrying any."
Dec 12, 2025 11:41 pm
OOC:
How wide is this chasm? My character can use Wall of Force to make a 100ft long and 10 ft wide bridge.
"I believe I can be of help in crossing this chasm."
Kalafein begins to gather magical energy, stretching and flattening the malleable energy before rolling it up and flinging the translucent pale blue magic like someone unrolling a blanket.
Dec 14, 2025 12:29 am
Ryo’fein nimbly traversed the bridge with ease. Arriving on the other side, he stood at guard and waited for the others to join.
OOC:
Acrobatics + Reliable Talent to cross stealthily. Perception to see if there are any threats nearby.

Stealth: 22
Perception: 17
Last edited December 14, 2025 12:30 am

Rolls

Acrobatics - (1d20+12)

(17) + 12 = 29

Stealth - (1d20+12)

(7) + 12 = 19

Perception - (1d20+7)

(9) + 7 = 16

Dec 14, 2025 12:51 am
Always, Burny sent Yao Pu and her arcane eye across to spy out the terrains invisibly. Only after they reported back (or Kalafein tells us the bridge will be going away) does she cross. Heights are not her favorite terrain.
Dec 14, 2025 4:01 pm
Ryo’fein nimbly traverses the bridge and Kalafein ensures that he and Burny can cross without falling into the spikes below.

The small tent shops and trading area are destroyed but most of the dead bodies in the area look like zombies. The lift building that would take you lower has been shut and locked. A look down into the chasm below shows a small town laid out along stone paths that have been shaped to make the town look like a spider web.
OOC:

Lock DC 12

Sith Morcane
https://i.ibb.co/mC8JKGZ/Sith-Morcane.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/8r1HHNH/Sith-Morcane-Bazaar-Level.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/Kxf48fr/Sith-Morcane-Commoner-s-Level.jpg

S1 - Entry post (You are here)
S2- Chasm with Large Web
S3 - Southern cavern (Entrance to House Morcane)
S4 - Guard Post
S12 - Bazaar
S13 - Warehouse
S14 - House Sylvatreen (Merchant)
S15 - Warehouse
S16 - Shrine to Ghaundaur
S17 - Bazaar Watchpost
S18 - Drow Cavern
S18 - A) Ramp
S18 - B) Ghaundaur Cleric's House
S18 - C) Overseer's House
S18 - D) stream
S18 - E) Lake
S19 - Northeast Passage
S20 - Cave
S21 - Overseer Station
S22 - Slave Cavern
S22 - F) Giant's Cave
S22 - G) Cistern
S22 - H) Halfling Slave Cave
S23 - Guard Post
S37 - House Morcane
Dec 14, 2025 11:51 pm
Catching up once the scouting party gave the all-clear, T'rissae hazarded a look out over the city with concern. "I guess we know why Menzoberranzan lost contact..."

Not dwelling on the horrors that almost assuredly lie below, T'rissae focused on the now. "We should secure the survivors you said you saw and find out what happened."
OOC:
Is everyone going together or are Ryo'fen, Burny and Kalafein scouting ahead?
Edit: I'm just gonna take some initiative and move forward :)
Last edited December 17, 2025 9:50 pm
Dec 19, 2025 6:52 pm
Bor quietly readies hammer and shield. He signs to T’rissae, I’m with you. I’ve got your back!
Dec 20, 2025 4:48 am
The survivors near the wall (outside just east of S1 and where you came into s1 from where you came in) are holed up in the safety of the towers. After some amount of knocking at the door of the lift area (the brown room in s1) you are able to get someone’s attention.

A female face peers through a small hole and then moments later T’rissae feels a splash of cold water. Once she doesn’t scream in pain from the holy water the door to the lift area opens. The woman shakes her head and says, "Guard Captain Sehlia at your service. I don’t exactly have any orders for what to do with living Drow coming in to the city unless it’s a supply caravan which you aren’t…"

In the lift area the woman in charge has a few male guards who are sleeping. "Don’t mind the boys they just came back from the mistresses."

She tries with some difficulty to get out, "The mistresses came in and took over a few days ago." She keeps trying and looks like she would really like to say more but, fails.

Instead she rubs her neck and points to a map of the city, "So, the Bazaar is somewhat safe, house Sylvatreen has surrendered to the new mistresses but might be safe. Shrine to Ghaundar hasn’t been desecrated yet. Slave caverns are being defended by Fiera she’s a Fire Giant and apparently doesn’t like undead much. House Morcane was taken over by the new mistress in charge. She and her sister are doing something down at the Fane of Lolth."

She shrugs and adds, "Don’t bother asking the boys any questions. They don’t have much will power left. I can do my best to answer your questions if you have them."
OOC:
Perception DC 12: Captain Sehela has a very prominent bite mark on her neck.
Religion or Nature DC 8: Vampire bite
Dec 20, 2025 12:40 pm
So, there's a vampire nest in charge now or possibly a House with vampire allies making a move. They had defeated the drow so presumably even more dangerous; master vampires were quite powerful and capable of quite advanced magic as well.

She let the Platin drow do the talking.
Last edited December 20, 2025 12:43 pm

Rolls

Perception on the captain DC 12 - (1d20+5)

(11) + 5 = 16

Religion for bite recognition DC 8 - (1d20+5)

(15) + 5 = 20

Dec 25, 2025 2:26 am
Sputtering in surprise as she blinked water from her eyes, it was only with great effort that T'rissae did not return the unexpected assault with a decidedly more dangerous response of her own. By the time she composed herself enough to actually hear what the guard captain was saying, the woman was already halfway through an explanation that did not provide much context for what she missed.

Then again, glancing at her companions, perhaps it wasn't just her that was lacking in understanding.

"I...think that I need more context," she said, eyeing the woman -and the barely conscious men- with suspicion. "When did the city come under attack by undead, and who are the mistresses you mention?"

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+8)

(3) + 8 = 11

Religion - (1d20+4)

(12) + 4 = 16

Dec 25, 2025 2:27 am
Guidance on Perception

Rolls

Guidance - (1d4+11)

(4) + 11 = 15

Dec 26, 2025 3:22 am
Ryo’fein eyed the drow with suspicion. The vampire bite mark was telling, but what it was telling him wasn’t so obvious. Perhaps the new mistress was a vampire. But if so, why’d this guard splash them with holy water?

With the priestess already asking questions, Ryo kept his mouth shut, but his eyes roamed the area.
Last edited December 26, 2025 3:25 am

Rolls

Religion DC8 - (1d20-1)

(12) - 1 = 11

Perception DC12 - (1d20+7)

(14) + 7 = 21

Dec 27, 2025 1:55 pm
Wary and troubled by the state of the city gates, Kalafein is on edge. The surprising cold water welcome they receive pulls his hair trigger into wrapping himself with protective magics.

Prudent or embarrassing, Kal doesn't care. This is all highly irregular. Following his Auntie's lead though, he vows to pay close attention to this situation.

His eyes are barely on the guard captain as Kal looks for any signs of danger. Though he does note the words "They don’t have much will power left." and considers that meaning.
[updated]
OOC:
cast Mage Armor and activate Arcane Ward, both lasting until their next long rest.
Poor guy isn't seeing anything today.
Last edited December 27, 2025 2:00 pm

Rolls

Perception DC 12 - (1d20+6)

(2) + 6 = 8

Intelligence check (Religion) DC 8 - (1d20+4)

(13) + 4 = 17

Dec 28, 2025 3:31 am
The Guard Captain looks at T’rissae, "Lolth went quiet a few day back and the T'sarran Sisters and their undead seemed ready for it. Zombies attacked the gates to distract us while the wraiths, demons, and Vampire sisters went into House Morcane and killed everyone. Came back out and said they were running the city. Not many of us were going to say no after that."

She shrugs, "I had to go in and get her kiss. Every one of us guards did if we didn’t want to become zombies or skeletons. Honestly these blood suckers aren’t much different than the group they replaced."

She gestures to the two men who are staring at you mostly mindlessly. "Those two might disagree though. They still follow orders but, not much left upstairs." She passes a hand over their eyes and they don’t react.

Kalafein and T’rissae know that powerful vampires can control those that they bite and even turn them into basically mindless thralls but those who have enough willpower can resist this. Clearly the two men don’t have enough willpower and their captain does. Though you suspect that she’s still under a charm effect.
Jan 3, 2026 3:16 am
Burny waited for the Drow to decide what to do. Meanwhile, she send her arcane eye (30', darkvision 30') scouting in a semicircle past the guard post and Ya Pu invisible flying higher (60' up, 120' darkvision) to scout further away.
Jan 3, 2026 10:32 pm
Scouting: Ya Pu can fly and thus doesn’t need the lift. The spirit reports that the Bazaar (Y12) still has some living Drow though clearly not as many as once lived and worked there. Additionally the caves where the common Drow and their slaves live (Y16) seems relatively unscathed by the recent fighting and changes in leadership.
Jan 3, 2026 11:13 pm
Once out of the earshot of the guard, Burny turns to the others:

"This isn't our fight either. Should we try to sneak through this time and get to our objective or are we going to try to fight the vampires and their boss?"
Jan 3, 2026 11:24 pm
Can we sneak past them without being detected? I can turn invisible, but I’m not sure they can’t detect it.
Jan 4, 2026 7:07 pm
Kalafein hesitantly offers, "I could provide magical invisibility to at most four of us. Though Bor brings up an excellent situation in which to be aware. We may very well be detected by means other than sight." Kal raises a single eyebrow at the priestesses. "It would seem our moral quandary continues. Assist our fellow Drow or focus on the mission? On the one hand, liberating this city may mean Lolth reclaims another bastion. On the other hand... change begins with a single step."
Jan 4, 2026 7:18 pm
"Vampires live forever." (from the POV of a pureblood, drows nearly do to though they die a lot at each others' hands).

"They don't tend to move quickly but make themselves very sure and certain. I would be very very hesitant to take them on if they are set up here; and, don't see any major time pressure on doing this if we need to at some point."
Last edited January 4, 2026 7:21 pm
Jan 4, 2026 7:32 pm
Kalafein nods at Shaojiao's words. "Wise words. This situation very well may be beyond us. Reporting this might be the best we can do for them at this time."
Jan 4, 2026 8:05 pm
Knowledge House Baenre = Success!
You need not even put pen to paper to know that Matron Mother Baenre will not be pleased by this situation. At the very least she will ask you to ascertain the condition of Lolth’s ‘Holy’ site in the outpost.

Matron Mother Platin, your own matron mother, would likely prefer you depart and you continue on your way as long as you can somehow work in a truthful report that won’t cause House Baenre to order you further in.

The difficult thing, of course, is doing so. The book you write your report in will assuredly make it difficult to even lie through omissions.
Jan 4, 2026 8:16 pm
"Invisible or otherwise, they'll not see me," Ryo'fein said with absolute confidence.

"I'll scout us a path."
OOC:
He will try to guide them through the best possible path to pass undetected.
Last edited January 4, 2026 8:17 pm

Rolls

Stealth (advantage - piwafi) - (2d20H1+12)

(1120) + 12 = 32

Jan 4, 2026 8:59 pm
Burny conveys to Ryo'fein what her familiar had ascertained from the air.
Jan 6, 2026 4:50 pm
You make your way to the Bazaar level avoiding most of the lingering undead. You note that there is a Drider priestess, clearly not of Lolth, staying near the doors to the Merchant House and closest to the path down into the Commoners area. She is clearly keeping an eye on things on the Bazaar level and likely little will pass her gaze lower into the cavern. When you get closer to her, you easily note that her holy symbol is one of Ghaunadar, the god of outcasts, slimes, and abominations.

The locals in the Bazaar avoid you but, you can approach the Drider priestess of Ghuanadar if you wish. You would also easily note that the doors to the Merchant House down here denote them as House Sylvatreen and have been made holy ground, likely dedicated to Ghaunadar. If you attempt to go down into the common area she will call out, "Do not go down any further, the lower area is protected by House Sylvatreen. I will not allow anyone to pass who does not meet with my approval."

House Morcane itself has some sort or ward in the cavern approaching the doorway and it is very difficult for you to approach it.
DM Notes:

1) The walkway down has a detect life and detect undead spell placed on it from floor to ceiling. There's nearly no way to avoid being noticed by the priestess. If you want to make the attempt it is a DC 25 spot check and a DC 30 disable device check.

2) House Morcane has a powerful ward around it. DC 18 wisdom save to approach the door. DC 20 wisdom save to actually enter the building.
Jan 10, 2026 9:29 pm
Noticing the others stepping away, T'rissae thanked the guard captain for the information and asked for a moment to speak with her house members.

"This needs to be reported at least," she agreed, torn between the duty entrusted to her and the desire to root out the vampiric conquerors who had taken the city. "Scouting for information is also something we can do. If this is beyond us, then we'll want to at least make sure we can get enough information to make a push to liberate the city more successful. And we have the element of surprise...for now."

Looking back at the guards, she says aloud, "And perhaps it would be best to stay up here with the guards for the duration of our stay. Limited access, good defensive position, easy to get out of we have to...all good things right now. And remind me to ask a few more questions about how often they are expected to go to the sisters. I have an idea."
When the lath downward was proven to be too well defended to sneak past without notice, T'rissae let slip a small curse. Calling their troop short of a confrontation before they approached the drider priestess, she pulled them into an alley to talk privately. "That pathway is locked down, and while one or two of us might be able to make it there's no way we're all getting past without being spotted. How do we want to play this?"
Jan 10, 2026 9:40 pm
"Do we need to go down that path? Are there alternatives to get to our goal?"
Jan 11, 2026 2:13 pm
Kal nods in agreement with T'rissae. "If the priestess of Ghuanadar requires approval to proceed, what of a conversation with her? If it is merely information we seek, an intelligent being is often a fine source."
OOC:
Kalafein approaches the drider priestess, unless of course someone tries to stop him.
Kal approaches easily and with all due respect to a priestess, showing such even to one not of Lolth as his cover would dictate.
Last edited January 11, 2026 2:15 pm

Rolls

Wisdom save DC 18 to approach & converse - (1d20+6)

(17) + 6 = 23

Jan 11, 2026 8:59 pm
Ryo'fein took a defensive position near his companions, folks better suited to speaking than himself, ready to defend them should things go awry.
OOC:
Perception to keep an eye and make sure no one ambushes them or anything like that.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+7)

(20) + 7 = 27

Jan 11, 2026 11:07 pm
Driders are not usual within Menzoberanzan, it is understood that they have done something to be punished by Lolth herself and are thus exiled from the city. Szith Morcane clearly couldn’t afford to exile those who might keep the outpost safe and thus they have a Merchant house of Driders within the city. The woman looks to Kalafein her expression is grim.

"You are not undead, nor do I recognize you as a local. This is a poor time for trade visitor and I would recommend you depart as soon as you can because The T’sarran house holds ill will towards any who worship Lolth. Indeed, I suspect ill will towards all who are alive. I only remain to try and ensure as many citizens can escape before they complete whatever they came here to do."

If he asks about the T’sarran house she will say, "They are a clan of Vampires, once a powerful force here and in Maermydra until they attempted to overthrow the clergy of Lolth and replace it with worship of Kiaransalee, mistress of undeath and revenge. Those of the house who were not killed exiled themselves from Maerymydra and Szith Morcane. We had wrongly assumed they had perished in the Underdark but, apparently that was not the case."

If asked what she thinks the T’sarran clan plans she says, "Lolth is silent, what better time to pervert the Fane within house Morcane and begin summoning a tide of undead to attack Daggerdale above or the rest of the Underdark here."
Jan 15, 2026 1:25 am
Ever one for questions in search of knowledge, the wizard inquires of the vampire usurpers and their goals. Kalafein maintains his composure of respect and formality as he must while addressing a female - even one transformed into a drifter. He bows in thanks, "My thanks for the knowledge you have imparted. May I inquire as to a possible task I and my companions might complete to your benefit?"
Kal thinks maybe a favor owed could help if the group stays in the city.
Jan 15, 2026 1:29 am
Ryo'fein nodded at Kalafein's question to help the drider. He wished for the group to succeed in their mission, but leaving vampires and undead in their wake didn't feel right. Perhaps the drider would need their help, perhaps not, but it was good to at least offer help.

He glanced over to the T'rissae, hoping the priestess agreed. But, if not, they had a mission to fulfill after all.
Jan 15, 2026 6:31 pm
The Drider thinks and adds, "Oh I did forget to give you, my name. I am Gia Sylvatreen, priestess of Ghuanadar. As for favors well I suppose asking you to attack the T'sarran sisters is a bit much since I am not myself going out and doing it."

She shrugs and looks down the ramp, "Honesty though if you could help some my sisters down below? Fierna, a local fire giantess who lives in the cavern, is rather attached to the halfling slaves and is being difficult about allowing them to leave. If you could convince her that it is for the best, I would be rather grateful and if you do by chance want to make the attempt at the Vampires do let me know and I'll provide some helpful items for a very low price."
Jan 16, 2026 1:15 am
Kalafein bows with respect "Forgive me for my lack of manners. I am Kalafein of House Platin. I shall bring this matter before my companions for consideration."
OOC:
and now we can discuss what we want to do
Jan 16, 2026 1:31 am
Ryo'fein glanced at the others, but kept his face an impassive mask under the hood of his piwafi. Taking Kalafein's cue to discuss the matter privately, he walked off a distance along with the others.

Even at a distance, and huddled in cover, he stuck to the silent language.

"My head thinks to stick to the objective and move on, but my heart wishes to free slaves and destroy undead abomination. I will defer to the group's collective wisdom."
Jan 22, 2026 4:00 am
Waiting with the rest of their group while Kalafein spoke with the drider, T'rissae was close enough to hear the creatures answers without intruding. It wasn't very often you spoke to a drider in Menzoberranzan, and she was a little surprised at how eloquent it was. She had heard that most of them were driven mad by the transformation, but evidently not all of them.

Gia's eloquence did little to lessen the blow of her message, however.

"I know our mission is of greater importance, but I cannot in good conscience let this plot go unchallenged," she said with authority when her nephew returned. "The T'sarran vampires cannot be allowed to summon an army of undead to threaten the surface or our home, nor treat our people as livestock. These people deserve better rulers. Ones who don't hate them for having hearts that still beat."

"So too can I not turn away from slaves when we have the means and power to break their chains," she added, nodding to Ryo'fein in mutual understanding. "There will be no better time than this. We must act, and decisively. I vote we stay."
Last edited January 22, 2026 4:02 am
Jan 25, 2026 12:22 pm
We should complete our mission which may be time sensitive. Then we can face vampires on our return if we are still capable. If the vampires hurt us too badly, it may compromise our main mission for House Platin.
Jan 25, 2026 1:59 pm
Kalafein nods in agreement with Burny. "I share your concern with the balance of time and our mission. I wonder if perhaps our delayed assistance to Szith Morcane might allow the vampires the opportunity to strengthen their hold and thus make liberation of the city even more difficult. Then there is the balance of risk versus reward in confronting or perhaps at least sabotaging the undead usurpers."
A rare, wry smile crosses the mage's lips. "It is a fascinating conundrum."
Jan 25, 2026 2:06 pm
Bor signs kindly, We should work to complete our mission firstly, friends.
Jan 26, 2026 5:34 pm
Even as Burny makes her feelings known her loyal celestial companion whispers in her ear. It is very rare for it to speak and even now the voice they speak with is not their own but some higher celestial speaking through them. "Be not so hasty in departure from this case. The danger below is greater by far, while the Spider Queen sleeps the dark Seldarine wake. If nothing is done Kiaransalee a new title will take. Best to prevent it with haste."
Jan 26, 2026 8:29 pm
Burny sighs with exasperation. Always so dramatic and always at the wrong time!

"On the other hand, I am getting warnings that we need to do something here. The warnings I was given were:

'While the Spider Queen sleeps, dark Seldarine wakes,' so other Gods and Goddesses are getting mixed up in this, particularly the Hungry Banshee:

'If nothing is done Kiaransalee a new title will take.'

It looks like the gods have selected us to fight this menace before continuing."


Burny looks put upon as only a teenager truly can.
Jan 26, 2026 11:28 pm
Ryo'fein's lip quirked just a touch at Burny's exasperation. "If a higher power hints at doing good here, I'm inclined to heed such warning."
OOC:
Seems like Ryo'fein, T'rissae, and Burny are for staying now. Kalafein looks like he's in the middle? And Bor wants to go?
Jan 27, 2026 2:42 pm
Kalafein's eyes glint with intrigue at Burny's revelation. "It would seem we have our path chosen for us."
OOC:
Kal was more making conversation than giving away his personal feelings. He's leaning to staying if for nothing more than to learn all he can.
Jan 28, 2026 2:17 pm
grifter730 says:
OOC:
Seems like Ryo'fein, T'rissae, and Burny are for staying now. Kalafein looks like he's in the middle? And Bor wants to go?
Our dark-dwarven fellow briefly fidgets with gauntleted fingers. Indicative of customarily stout-blooded impatience!

Bor stays his signage long enough for his friends to convey their own thoughts and feelings on this our party’s present plight. Finally, as discussion seems to momentarily wind down, Bor signs with, I feel like we have a mission to complete, and staying still just puts off the inevitable. If anyone needs more time to prepare, that’s ok. But we need make a plan for moving ahead. We can return here again in due time.

But I won’t go alone. If the lot of you wish to stay, then I will too, and you have my hammer, as always.
Jan 28, 2026 7:49 pm
Returning to Gia Sylvatreen she seems happy. She brings you into her family shop another drider sits at the counter while Gia offers one item up for free. "This is a guest pass. It should allow you in past the ward over the entire house but likely not into the Fane."

She gestures at items even as her assistant/sister holds each one up, "We have a silver stake here that could be quite useful. For you 200 gold. Maybe you prefer some enchanted arrows against undead? Ten for just 100 gold. I have magic scimitars and rapier as well just for you seventy percent off?"
Jan 29, 2026 2:21 am
Showing no interest personally in the items listed, the mage's eye widen in feigned delight, silently asking if any of the group has any use for such materials.
Jan 29, 2026 2:26 am
Burny turns her head so the shopkeeper can't see her and ostentatiously rolls her eyes.
Jan 29, 2026 2:55 am
Ryo'fein nodded politely and smiled at the drider. "Enchanted arrows...?" He quirked his eyebrow. "In what manner are they helpful against the undead?"
OOC:
Only have 58gp lol. Might need to haggle here, so to keep things moving I'll roll Persuasion here in case I need it later.

EDIT: I guess that's a 14, due to Reliable Talent. Still pretty low, d'oh.
[ +- ] Rog 7: Reliable Talent
OOC:
Ryo can get them for 50 gold. They do 2d6 holy damage against demons and undead. He can retrieve them after combat with a straight 10 or higher on a d20 roll
Last edited January 29, 2026 2:55 am

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

Jan 31, 2026 5:47 pm
Bor signs his desire to purchase arrows. I would be interested in arrows for 50 gold as well. I can provide that payment now, if we can have a deal.

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Jan 31, 2026 9:17 pm
OOC:
Ryo’fein will take 20. If we started out with 5,000gp, did you guys want to split that 7 ways? Or just mark it as a party bank? 100gp for 20 arrows that does +2d6 to undead would be awesome.
Jan 31, 2026 10:28 pm
The Group purchases what they need and head towards House Morcane. The tunnel leading in has a twenty skeletons waiting on the other side of what would have been a barrier but you step through the magical abjuration and then make quick work of the meagre servants left to keep watch.

Ryo’fein notices some sort of alarm with his perception and simply fires an arrow at it before it can begin to make any noise. The main door to the house has been shattered and standing guard at the opening in the distance is the large form of some sort of zombie giant or ogre.
OOC:
Map coming soon
Jan 31, 2026 11:47 pm
OOC:
Map
Having issues then here

I couldn’t figure out how to gray parts out attempt to pretend your character doesn’t see them
Feb 1, 2026 11:17 am
Purging a nest of undead would be tiresome work. The skeletons were a good warm-up, but a gigantic zombie requires Ryo’fein’s full attention.

He ensured that they were all hidden as they prepared for the ambush. Once ready, he nocked the newly purchased arrow and let loose.
OOC:
I’m assuming we can take the creature by surprise, but I’ll roll Initiative in case you want us to. Also mentioned giving time for folks to prep if they need to beforehand, that way I’m not forcing people into combat before they’re ready.

Bonus Action: War Priest + Assassinate
Action: Ready Action to attack when an ally attacks the creature.
[ +- ] Asn 3: Assassinate
[ +- ] War 3: War Priest

Rolls

Initiative: (advantage) - (2d20H1+4)

(68) + 4 = 12

+1 Shortbow Assassinate (advantage) - Attack - (2d20H1+11)

(1518) + 11 = 29

+1 Shortbow Assassinate - Damage (undead arrow) - (1d6+4+1+7+2d6)

(5) + (33) + 12 = 23

Sneak Attack - (4d6)

(3546) = 18

Feb 5, 2026 4:12 am
OOC:
I'll take the stake and I'm good with party loot. Seems appropriate for House Platin :)
Can we get some more info about the scimitars and rapier?
Feb 5, 2026 4:36 am
Purchasing the silver stake, T'rissae gives the drider a curious look as she evaluated the weapon. Gia seemed unusually prepared for the vampiric threat that had overtaken their city. But then again, apparently the T'sarrans had been a threat for some time beforehand. Thanking her for the support, T'rissae briefly considered asking further questions but decided against it. She wasn't sure she could word them politely and this seemed like a bad time anyway.

Following Ryo'fein's lead, the cleric whispered an incantation while her fingertips plucked at summoned starlight. She always enjoyed watching beings who had never seen moonlight experience it for the first time.

Rolls

Dex (advantage) - Initiative - (2d20H1+2)

(1714) + 2 = 19

Sacred Flame - Dex save DC 16 - (2d8)

(33) = 6

Feb 5, 2026 10:53 am
As T’rissae’s flame distracted the creature, Ryo’fein took the opening and fires another shot.
OOC:
Readied Action triggered.

Rolls

+1 Shortbow Assassinate (advantage) - Attack - (2d20H1+11)

(64) + 11 = 17

+1 Shortbow Assassinate - Damage - (1d6+4+1+7)

(2) + 12 = 14

Sneak Attack - (4d6)

(1155) = 12

Forgot the undead arrow - (2d6)

(32) = 5

Feb 5, 2026 1:46 pm
OOC:
The scimitars and Rapier are +1 weapons. She's selling them to you cheap for 250 gold.
Ryo is a whirling agent of destruction, his weapons chip away at bone and remove huge ribs from the creature. If it had been alive he would already have killed it. However, it is undead and thus still there when he is done breaking and shattering bones.
Feb 6, 2026 12:19 am
Bor levels his trusty bow at the giant zombie. Wary dwarven eyes surely press against underdarkened night, as our deurgar fellow puts two magical arrows into dungeonous air!

Rolls

Longbow - Attack - (1d20+11)

(3) + 11 = 14

Longbow - Damage - (1d8+2)

(7) + 2 = 9

Undead Dmg - (2d6)

(61) = 7

Longbow - Attack - (1d20+11)

(10) + 11 = 21

Longbow - Damage - (1d8+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Undead Dmg - (2d6)

(21) = 3

Feb 6, 2026 1:27 am
Burny quickly ran through her litany of spells but none seemed appropriate. She had Yao Pu fly at the giant's face, its invisible talons helping distract it (help action), turning the raven visible as it flew behind the giant's head.

Then she reached for her link with Shishi and blasted it with eldritch energies.

Rolls

Eldritch Blast - (1d20+8)

(11) + 8 = 19

Advantage from help action - (1d20+8)

(6) + 8 = 14

Force Damage with agonizing blast (+5 each) and repelling blast (knocks back target 10+10' no save) - (2d10+10)

(83) + 10 = 21

Eldritch Blast 2nd bolt - (1d20+8)

(13) + 8 = 21

Advantage - (1d20+8)

(10) + 8 = 18

Feb 8, 2026 1:53 am
Bor and Burny come in with the assist and the large Zombie is once again dead.

Inside the entrance hall itself there are still some spots of blood here and there. Remnants of House Morcane’s fight.
There are three rooms here, one east, one north, and one south. All the doors are closed.

Map updated
Feb 8, 2026 8:30 pm
Ryo'fein took point and kept an eye out to let the others check the corpse for any possible loot. "Keep going left until we make it back around?" It was an old explorer's trick to not get lost, just stick to one direction and explore every corner.
OOC:
He'll head up north when everyone's ready (unless someone wants to go elsewhere, I just picked a direction to keep things moving).
Feb 8, 2026 9:14 pm
"Hold up, Ryo. Let me send my arcane eye in to check things out first."

Burny sends the Eye ahead to check out the rooms (if it can get in, if doesn't open doors); she may have to move closer to do so, if so she waits for the others to come with her. Yao Pu goes up top to scout the rest of the area from the sky (invisibly).
Last edited February 8, 2026 9:16 pm
Feb 8, 2026 10:14 pm
Ryo'fein glanced back. He wasn't used to working with others. It was strange. Unnerving and strange. He didn't like relying on others, but he'd have to admit, a magical eye? Well, that is quite handy.

He nodded appreciatively at Burny.
Feb 11, 2026 5:57 pm
The doors are open and the eye takes a look through each one.

North
In the reception room to the north there are four creatures in dark black armor the visors are down and they are likely not alive.

East
The Great Hall has a huge banquet table in the center. A chandelier hangs above and light shines down at a table where a meal has recently been served for four people. At each seat there is a pool of blood right next to chains that have been set into the table itself. From the marks it is clear some living person was chained down at the table at each seat, their neck presented to the one who was dining on them.

South
Ther is a kitchen with two Goblins working to clean up to the west. The east has a closed door marked ‘Storage’

Map updated
Feb 17, 2026 12:45 am
OOC:
It's been a while, so I'm just going to assume that Burny shared his findings, that way I can post.
"Four dark creatures to the north sounds very inviting to me." Ryo'fein smiled at the others, but then turned serious. "We're here to clear this place out, so let's start cleaning."
Feb 17, 2026 1:29 am
Sorry, yes.

Any way to prep for 4 armored undead? Anyone need to prep spells? Anything you think will work well?
Feb 17, 2026 12:51 pm
Exhausted but undeterred, our duergar fellow simply raises his trusty warhammer, gesturing to Shaojiao in implied fighter-minded reply!
Feb 19, 2026 2:48 pm
You enter the room and the four skeletal knights turn your way. They stare at you as if awaiting a command and only after a moment do they even realize that you do not have a command sigil allowing you to attack them before they can attack you.
OOC:
You should be able to reach any of them.
Feb 19, 2026 4:18 pm
Burny doesn't enter the room herself. That would be foolish and she might get in the way of the warriors. She sends Yao Pu in, flying invisibly up near the ceiling. He's a bit sulky about it, but it's all mental so no one else needs to listen to him.

The instant the Skeleton knights turn to attack, Burny attempts to banish the two farthest away Skeleton Knights.
[ +- ] Gaze of Two Minds
[ +- ] Banishment (concentration)

2 targets (Cha)
Last edited February 19, 2026 4:30 pm
Feb 19, 2026 7:41 pm
The two skeletal knights vanish from the plane but, they will be back as they are undead.

Rolls

Charisma Save - (1d20-1)

(3) - 1 = 2

Chasrisma Save - (1d20-1)

(11) - 1 = 10

Feb 19, 2026 9:28 pm
Ryo'fein moved in against the skeletal knights, always moving forward, targets in his sights. These creatures were a nuisance, an obstacle keeping him away from his true goal, and he shot rapidly to make quick work of them.
OOC:
Forgot to roll the arrow retrieval after last combat. Do I roll a d20 for each arrow? I shot 2 in the last combat. Will roll 2d20 here just in case, otherwise just take the first roll.

Rolls

Arrow retrieval DC10 - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Arrow retrieval DC10 - (1d20)

(19) = 19

+1 Shortbow Assassinate (advantage) - Attack - (2d20H1+11)

(26) + 11 = 17

+1 Shortbow (advantage) - Attack - (2d20H1+11)

(1516) + 11 = 27

+1 Shortbow Assassinate - Damage - (1d6+4+1+7)

(2) + 12 = 14

+1 Shortbow - Damage - (1d6+4+1)

(4) + 5 = 9

Sneak Attack - (4d6)

(5266) = 19

Feb 22, 2026 3:21 pm
With a few gestures and mumbled words that echo slightly with arcane power, Kalafein conjures a number of flaming rocks that begin floating around the mage. Another quick gesture sends a couple of the rocks to projectile themselves to the skeletal knights.
OOC:
Casting Melf's Minute Meteors
Bonus: send one to each of the two skeletons

Rolls

minute meteors - (2d6, 2d6)

2d6 : (33) = 6

2d6 : (35) = 8

Feb 26, 2026 3:19 pm
Ryo and Kalafein work to kill one of the remaining creatures.

The other is damaged by the minute meteors, but it is still standing. It turns to swing its sword at Ryo'fein. The swing is wide and it misses him utterly.

Rolls

Long Sword - (1d20+10)

(3) + 10 = 13

Long Sword - (1d10+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

Feb 26, 2026 3:44 pm
Seeing that one enemy is down, Kalafein takes a step back to ensure he is well beyond the creature's reach as he focuses his magical firepower at the thing. With a couple of quick gestures, he lobs another of his little meteors quickly followed by a spell that feels more like a routine chore than a manipulation of magical energy. Still, three glowing magical darts of energy streak to the animated skeleton to give it a good thumping.
OOC:
Action: cast Magic Missile
Bonus: launch 1 minute meteor
3 meteors remain

Rolls

Minute meteor - (2d6)

(62) = 8

Magic Missile - (3d4+3)

(112) + 3 = 7

Feb 26, 2026 9:48 pm
Ryo'fein called out to the others as he ducked, dodging and weaving. He'd call for help, but that wasn't his way. His fingers deftly nocked another arrow, pointing at one by his companion, and let loose.

Rolls

+1 Shortbow (advantage) - Attack - (2d20H1+11)

(1320) + 11 = 31

+1 Shortbow - Damage - (1d6+4+1)

(3) + 5 = 8

Sneak Attack - (4d6)

(4516) = 16

Crit Damage - (5d6)

(14321) = 11

Feb 26, 2026 10:18 pm
Holding the banishment in her consciousness, Burny pushes a spell through her link with the invisible Yao Pu, coming from a point near him two beams of eldritch energy crackled into the remaining skeleton.

Rolls

Eldritch Blast - (1d20+11)

(20) + 11 = 31

2nd Beam - (1d20+11)

(16) + 11 = 27

Damage from 1st beam, knocks target back 10' - (1d10+5)

(10) + 5 = 15

Damage from 2nd beam, knocks target back 10' - (1d10+5)

(4) + 5 = 9

If extra die damage from Ranged Spell attack crit - (1d10)

(1) = 1

Mar 5, 2026 1:06 am
Pushing into the room, T'rissae drew her sword and attacked. She had magical means of ending this, of course, but with the knowledge that there were vampires about who wouldn't hold back meant that she must hold back now.

Rolls

Sword of the Maiden - Attack - (1d20+6+2)

(12) + 8 = 20

Sword of the Maiden - Damage - (1d6+2+2)

(3) + 4 = 7

Sword of the Maiden - Undead Damage - (3d6)

(245) = 11

Mar 7, 2026 10:12 pm
The second two fall to your assault. You are able to prepare for the return of the first two and when they fade in you easily get the drop on them.

You can smell the various alchemical compounds to the north and the reception room is empty and the Great Hall looks as if it is still in the middle of preparations for a meal. In this case a meal unlike any you’ve seen as there are numerous manacles on the table. Each set of the devices looks made to easily lock a Drow or other elven pie down in a position that would allow the person seated at the table to easily drink from their throat. Apparently vampires like to have communal dinner too…
Mar 8, 2026 4:48 am
Search the skeleton knights and their room of course; it's a reflex action by this point.
Mar 8, 2026 8:08 am
With the threat taken care of, Ryo’fein paused and eyed the room. His nose crinkled with disgust.

"Where to now?" He asked Burny.
Mar 8, 2026 1:11 pm
"I don't know. You guys wanted to deal with the vamps; I wanted to head straight for our objective."

Ok, I told you so was immature but Shaojiao was still in her first couple of hundred years, she WAS immature.
Mar 8, 2026 8:39 pm
"You're our eyes, what else did your wandering eye see?" Ryo'fein clarified.
Mar 8, 2026 9:03 pm
"Oh, sorry, right."

Burny sends her arcane eye to scout ahead nearby rooms and Yao Pu to keep an eye on it and watch further on.
Mar 11, 2026 12:19 pm
Taking in the scene, Kalafein's face slowly reveals the horror he feels. His instinct is to analyze and categorize any perceived threats and maybe even some exits.
"Seems they've made themselves at home."

Rolls

Perception (loiking for threats and exits) - (1d20+6)

(5) + 6 = 11

Mar 12, 2026 2:38 pm
Cleaning and sheathing her sword, T'rissae stepped into the room after Ryo'fein and Shaijiao cleared the room of further threats. "Well, this is pleasant, isn't it?" she said in mocking sarcasm as she took in the grisly banquet hall. "It looks like we missed the dinner party."

Stepping closer, T'rissae took a closer look at the table, trying to evaluate how long ago these manacles had been used.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+0)

(6) = 6

Guidance - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Mar 12, 2026 9:09 pm
As Burny scouted again, Ryo'fein moved to help the priestess. It was a grisly tableau, but he had expected as much.
OOC:
Investigating to help out T'rissae.

EDIT: Looks like we're both dummy investigators lol.
Last edited March 12, 2026 9:10 pm

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+3)

(6) + 3 = 9

Mar 13, 2026 11:33 pm
Burny notes that the doors to the north are all closed and the hallway continues on.

The doors beyond the great hall are also closed and locked. The one furthest south in the great hall glows of powerful abjuration magic.

Triss notes that the dinner has not yet been served. It is all waiting to be used likely in an hour or so. Burny also notes there are two goblins working in the kitchen.
OOC:
Map updated
Mar 14, 2026 1:49 am
"We have dinner being prepared, but the fangers don't eat anything but blood, right? Anything we could do to weaken the fangers at their dinner? We have holy water, maybe have their intended recipients drink it? Then we'd have to lay low until they drink then attack while they are injured?"
Mar 24, 2026 8:15 pm
"I don't think that would work," Triss said, considering the situation. "No telling if their 'meals' blood would be turned holy or not. Plus we would have to wait for them to actually, well, be placed. If we can take the vampires out before then we should. An ambush at dinner perhaps if we must."

Noting the goblins, she asks, "Perhaps the cooks have some insight on the goings-on?"
Mar 28, 2026 8:59 am
"Let’s go seek the cooks then."

Ryo’fein moved towards the kitchen.
OOC:
Sorry, didn’t post because I was just waiting to see if anyone was going to move forward. Ryo’fein is just trying to clear this place out asap.
Mar 28, 2026 1:04 pm
Burny shruggs and sends her invisible eye to scout ahead in the kitchen while her familiar keeps watch behind at the door.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+5)

(12) + 5 = 17

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