1.2 - Cragmaw Cave

Feb 2, 2026 10:08 am

"Maybe one of us could scout ahead, to check if we can reach something of interest soon. Otherwise, the best course of action might be to reach our original destination, and come back later without being encumbered. What do you think?" proposes Igrem, thinking aloud.

Feb 2, 2026 5:14 pm

"Well, I could perhaps sneak ahead a bit and see if there is anything of note, if the terrain is conducive", Alex responds to Igrem. "In the meantime, we should secure the wagon and the horses, giving them enough lead to forage while we are gone." Alex assesses the terrain to determine if he has a decent chance of remaining silent should he attempt stealth, and if so, the best approaches to do so.

OOC:

Alex will use stealth, but wants to take a moment to see if there is anything in the immediate vicinity which would help his stealth attempt. Thus the Naturecraft roll.

Rolls

Naturecraft - (1d20+2, RA)

(12) + 2 = 14

Feb 2, 2026 5:18 pm

I agree. Alex will you or Igrem scout ahead? Then I'll get this wagon turned around.

Feb 3, 2026 12:31 am

Alex, you take a careful moment to assess the trail and the immediate vicinity. There are ways to continue on foot. The goblin path is narrow but passable on foot, winding deeper into the trees. With time and caution, you could follow it for a short distance. The real issue isn’t the terrain—it’s the light. As evening settles in, shadows stretch long across the trail. Roots, loose stones, and uneven ground would make moving in full darkness risky; tripping or making noise feels almost inevitable. Lighting a torch would help you see… but it would also announce your presence to anything watching.

Neither option sits well with you.

As you broaden your survey, you spot somewhere interesting nearby. Just off the trail is a small rise of firmer ground, partially screened by brush and young trees. It’s sheltered on three sides, dry enough to make camp, and positioned so there’s room to secure the animals and set watches without drawing attention.

It’s discreet, defensible, and close enough to the goblin trail to pick it up again at first light. This is a good place to camp.

OOC:

What do you do?

Feb 3, 2026 8:57 am

"We could camp here. At this time of the day, it is probably better than travel the road and be obvious targets..." proposes Igrem.

Feb 3, 2026 12:04 pm

We will make camp here, and keep a close watch tonight.

Feb 3, 2026 3:14 pm

OOC:

Before we move on, let’s set watches once again. In this game, we’ll usually handle nights in three watches, each roughly 3–4 hours, covering dusk → deep night → pre-dawn.

If your character sleeps for any two watches, with food and water available, that counts as a full night’s rest—about as good as one can reasonably get while sleeping on the road. In that case, if you wanna heal HP, there is no need to roll— you spend the die and recover the maximum amount. One watch of sleep is a short rest, and makes you roll if you want to heal HP; staying up all night has consequences.

Please post:
- Who takes which watch (previously, in order: Igrem, Alex, Nelly. Should we keep the same?)
- Anything your character does during their watch (stay alert, pray, study, brood, etc.)

Rolls

Random encounter? - (1d6)

What watch (if any)? - (1d3)

Feb 3, 2026 3:28 pm

OOC:

Fine with taking second watch. Once again, will practice various finesse entertainment skills that may or may not have dual usage in more precarious situations. Also may sit and compose some rather hideous doggerel full of teenage angst.

Given I already expended one HD and am close to my HP max, I will not spend the remaining one now, saving it for catching my breath if needed. I figure we aren't going to get a safe rest until we make it to Phandalin.

Feb 3, 2026 6:28 pm

OOC:

I see no need to change the watch order.
Nelly will play with her newfound magic

Feb 4, 2026 12:39 pm

OOC:

Igrem also agrees to keep the watch order. He will meditate and study further his new spells as well while not sleeping.

Feb 4, 2026 1:18 pm

So the wagon is guided into position, the horses secured with enough slack to graze, and the camp is looking good, despite the fatigue and the fact that none of you are hunters. A small fire is lit low and shielded, for warmth and morale, but giving away very little light. Watches pass quietly. No eyes glint in the dark, no goblins whisper from the trees.

Wilderness, Early Morning, the 23rd of Ches
Morning comes cool and pale, early spring sunlight filtering through the branches. Bedrolls are shaken out, armor adjusted, and sore muscles worked loose as best they can be. Rations are passed around—dry bread, preserved fare, and what little remains of yesterday’s berries. As you eat, the goblin trail is still waiting nearby, unchanged since dusk.

OOC:

What do you do?

Feb 4, 2026 4:20 pm

We can follow the path by foot, and if we doesn't find anything within an hour, I say we return to the wagon and continue on our trek. We cant leave the horses and wagon unsupervised for to long.

Feb 4, 2026 5:23 pm

"Well, friend Nelly, if we tie down the wagon, unhitch the horses, and tether them to yonder tree with enough lead for forage, we can leave them for a day or so," Alex responds. "I suggest we follow the goblin train—quietly—and see what may have befallen our employers. If needed, arm yourselves with our newly acquired booty!"

Having buckled on his armor, tested his weapons' sheathing, loaded up with sling stones, and secured any item on his person which would make undesired noise, Alex stretches out and cracks his back.

I will head out quietly and survey the path. If you hear me yell, please come running!

Alex heads out as quietly as possible to survey the trail a bit.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+4, RA)

(16) + 4 = 20

Feb 4, 2026 5:44 pm

Morning, the 23rd of Ches
Alex, moving carefully and keeping the group out of sight behind you, you follow the goblin trail on foot. After about an hour of cautious travel, the land rises and the trail brings you to the base of a low hillside. There, half-hidden by dense briar thickets, yawns the dark mouth of a large cave. A shallow stream trickles out from within, cutting a narrow channel across the path before continuing downhill. The sound of running water is constant, just loud enough to mask smaller noises.

On the right-hand side of the stream, a narrow, dry path hugs the rock face and leads into the cave itself, avoiding the water entirely. Tracks converge here—goblins, many of them, moving in and out over time.

As you edge closer, keeping to cover, from behind the briar thickets screening the cave mouth, you hear movement. Something alive is in there—and it doesn’t sound like just one creature.

OOC:

Alex, what do you do? Fall back?

Rolls

Secret Roll

Feb 4, 2026 6:52 pm

OOC:

Did Nelly and Igrem follow quietly behind or they an hour trek back to camp?

Feb 4, 2026 8:07 pm

OOC:

Nelly is trying to be stealthy somewhere behind Alex.

Rolls

Stealth0 - (1d20+0, RA)

(6) = 6

Feb 5, 2026 1:19 am

Last edited February 5, 2026 1:23 am

Feb 5, 2026 12:57 pm

Igrem follows Alex as well, staying closer to Nelly, as he does not want to stay alone and far from his companions in the middle of a potentially hostile forest. He is of the opinion that they should not be too long away from the horses, though.

OOC:

Typical of PBP games, we might be slightly lacking in terms of coordination...

Feb 5, 2026 5:41 pm

Avraham says:

Did Nelly and Igrem follow quietly behind or they an hour trek back to camp?

Alex, Nelly is a few minutes behind you. And no, they're not following very quietly, but they're also not close enough to expose the group (yet) to whatever is behind the thickets.

OOC:

What do you do?

Feb 5, 2026 6:19 pm

Hearing the alarmingly loud—under the circumstances—rustle of what could only be his compatriots clomping through the woods like an entire herd of ankheg, Alex quickly retreats and catches Igrem and Nelly before they could alert the goblins. Quickly describing the layout, Alex whispers "So what should we do? Try to ambush? Try to bluff our way in? There are clearly at least half a dozen goblins in the cave. Probably more."

Feb 6, 2026 11:18 am

"Is it wise, and part of our mission, to confront these goblins head on? Now that we know where they dwell, maybe it is a better move to reach our destination fast and warn there of the danger. We can always come back later in bigger numbers." suggest Igrem, wary of being in hostile territory. He looks around in the trees, from time to time, anxiously.

Feb 6, 2026 3:21 pm

Nelly speaks to Igrem while Alex scouts ahead.
Our self-appointed mission is a rescue mission. We are not here to hunt goblins. If there is no one to save, then we return to the vagon and continue on the original missioin of excorting the wagon to Phandelver

Feb 6, 2026 3:49 pm

Hard to know if there is no one to save without checking, to be frank, Alex whispers.

Feb 7, 2026 5:25 pm

"Alright then, it is up to you. But yet again, a rescue mission with more help and preparation might have higher chances of success..." concedes Igrem. He will of course follow his companions, whatever they decide.

Feb 8, 2026 3:01 pm

OOC:

Alex, Nelly, what do you do?

Feb 9, 2026 5:47 am

Alex whispers to the others I am going to sneak up closer and see what those noises are. My guess is they are goblins. Perhaps we can get the jump on them. Alex pats himself down, ensuring that all items that can clink, clank, clop, or clod are tied down and muffled. Taking a deep breath, Alex begins to move forward as silently as he can [Hide: (1/round) You may either Move or Hide for free.]

OOC:

Alex hides and then will sneak up as close as he feels safe to I19 or I20 and reconnoiter the cave opening. From there, depending on how many foes there are, if any, he may try to sneak around them, given he is hidden now and is not intending to break cover.

Last edited February 9, 2026 6:37 pm

Feb 9, 2026 4:31 pm

Nelly stays far enough back to still have an eye on Alex, but not hindering her scouting. She knows that she is loud and noisy, and that is not needed right now.

Feb 9, 2026 4:48 pm

Igrem stays with Nelly, observing Alex's moves with interest.

Feb 9, 2026 8:14 pm

Alex, as you circle slightly to the east side of the stream, keeping the sound of running water between you and the cave mouth, you notice something that doesn’t quite belong. The briar thickets there aren’t as wild as they should be. A closer look reveals why.

A small section has been deliberately hollowed out, the thorny branches bent and broken inward to form a crude blind. Rough wooden planks have been laid across the crushed briars, creating a flattened platform just large enough for a couple of small creatures to crouch in relative comfort. From here, anyone inside would have a clear view of the cave approach, the stream, and the narrow dry path—an ideal lookout post. And it’s occupied.

Two goblins lurk inside the blind right now, hunched low, their green skin blending surprisingly well with the shadowed thorns. One idly scratches at its ear with the tip of a dagger. The other chews on something unidentifiable, occasionally glancing toward the cave mouth rather than outward.

They are not paying attention to the surroundings. Lazy guards. Careless.

They have no idea you’re there.

OOC:

Alex, what do you do?

Feb 9, 2026 10:29 pm

Alex, trusting in his stealth, steals back to Igrem and Nelly, and fills them in on the situation.

OOC:

DM, from M15, can Alex fire his sling and still remain in cover? The rules say: The first attack you make while hidden is made with advantage, then you are no longer hidden. If this attack kills the enemy and no other enemy can see you, you may remain hidden instead. Is that only for melee, or will firing the sling knock me out of cover? From what I recall from the last battle, all the goblins had > 10 HP, which means the possibility of one-shot-kills are low. If there is no way not to be seen, I'd rather set up an ambush where Igrem and Nelly can also get attacks, as 3:2 is a lot better than 1:2 😝

Feb 9, 2026 11:07 pm

OOC:

Quote:

Is that only for melee, or will firing the sling knock me out of cover?

Firing the sling will make you visible and initiate combat.

What do you do?

Feb 9, 2026 11:35 pm

OOC:

OK, @runekyndig,@kwll, do you want to sneak up with me and start a 3 on 2 ambush or do you want to leave the cave unsearched, despite our knowing that the dead horses were those of our employers and non-goblin bodies were dragged this way? I vote for the ambush, as its 3:2 and not 3:5 like it was at the hill.

Feb 10, 2026 6:51 am

OOC:

Nelly don't do stealth, but we can use that to our advange here.
1) Alex sneak into posission
2) Nelly comes out the clearing like a normal dupe
3) Goblings attack Nelly in a 2:1 fight (they think)
4) Alex attacks goblins
5) Nelly hides be hinds her shield and charges

Igrem... do some cool magic and save the day

Last edited February 10, 2026 6:51 am

Feb 10, 2026 10:10 am

Igrem agrees to the ambush, given the odds and the situation.

Feb 10, 2026 8:47 pm

OOC:

On the other hand, if Alex gets into position again hidden, he may not only have an attack with advantage, he may have full surprise. I'm not sure which is better. Alex attacking with surprise and the Nelly and Igrem charging in when they hear the noise? Or Nelly coming in and Alex attacking with advantage in his initiative turn given he is hidden. Nimble is a bit light on descriptions (Surprise is page 15 and cover is page 10). Are we allowed to ask you for YOUR opinion, htech, as to what would be more advantageous, considering our characters are not in danger now?

Feb 10, 2026 10:15 pm

OOC:

Sure. It's your call, actually.

1. Alex, Nelly and Igrem can start in their previous positions (see map above) and everyone can have 3 actions (a full surprise round, no need to roll). The goblins will likely attack Alex, as you're likely the only threat nearby. Or;

2. You follow Runekyndig's plan, as written, meaning you will have new starting positions (Nelly must start closer) and you should roll Initiative with Advantage to see how many actions you have in your first round. The goblins will surely try to attack Nelly and ignore the party in their first round, as she is "the obvious threat".

Either way, for now, the goblins are considered "Distracted" for the purposes of your Vicious Opportunist ability.

What do you do?

Feb 11, 2026 1:07 am

OOC:

Given we aren't in combat and as Lvl 2 cheat I get move or hide once free per round, even if we take Runekyndig's plan, can I sneak back and start with three full actions with advantage due to MY surprising the goblins once the others come close?

Feb 11, 2026 9:19 am

Alex, you use the sound of the stream to mask your final approach.

Keeping low, you slip from tree to tree, then, inch by inch, you position yourself just behind and slightly to the side of the hollowed-out blind. From here, you can see the hunched backs of both goblins through gaps in the woven branches. They still haven’t noticed you.

At that moment, Nelly steps deliberately out from the tree line into the open approach before the cave—shield on her arm, posture alert. She walks forward like a traveler who has simply blundered too close.

The reaction is immediate. Both goblins jerk upright in the blind, eyes widening.

"Tiefling!" one hisses, in Common.

OOC:

Ok, Alex can have 3 actions, no need to roll. Nelly, Igrem, please roll Initiative with Advantage. What do you do?

Feb 11, 2026 4:32 pm

OOC:

In the words of the late, great Christopher Lee playing Saruman: "TO WAR!"
At the risk of dying, given the goblin is distracted, I will use a melee attack with the short sword and set the FIRST attack on G1 to 6. I presume I would have only had advantage on being hidden for the primary die roll, which I am manually setting to 6 due to Vicious Opportunist, and I don't have advantage on either the exploding crits or the sneak attack. If I'm wrong, for the sake of speed, feel free to re-roll. Similarly, please correct any rule misunderstandings I may have made.

Alex watches from his blind with glee as the goblins focus on Nelly. Come to papa, you little green b@stards, he whispers as he draws his short sword and lunges from the brush at the goblin closest to him. [Action 1: Attack distracted G1 using Vicious Opportunist].

As he sinks his sword into the goblin, Alex shouts at the second goblin "You are so ugly that bugbears use you to frighten their children! [Action 2: Create an Opening for Nelly/Igrem on goblin G2. "Increase the next Primary Die Roll against a target by 1 this round"]

Having done what he could to put the second goblin off its timing, Alex decides that popping out of ambush is not only fun, but a life-extending maneuver, and decides to try again [Action 3: Move back to O15]. Plunging into the underbrush, Alex fades from the goblins' sight. [Cheat Lvl 2 Action (Hide):You may either Move or Hide for free].

OOC:

Oof. Awful rolls.

Last edited February 11, 2026 4:33 pm

Rolls

Short Sword: Rolling for exploding crits, first attack is crit (+6) - (1d6+2+6, RA)

(1) + 8 = 9

Sneak Attack on crit - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Feb 11, 2026 6:55 pm

OOC:

1 action: Move to N4

Nelly rushes across the creek and up to the goblins hideout.

Last edited February 11, 2026 6:56 pm

Rolls

Initiative - (2d20h1+0, RA)

(31) = 3

Feb 12, 2026 8:47 am

Igrem sees his companions move forward and decides to follow as well.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

Feb 12, 2026 8:48 am

The mage stays on the wheel of Nelly, ready to act when he is in sight of the enemy.

Feb 12, 2026 11:54 pm

OOC:

Alex, you dont need to use
an action (Cheat lvl 2), but you're hiding in combat, so please make a DC 15 Stealth check

Nelly says:

1 action: Move to N4

Unh... You can only move 6 squares with one action. That’s M12. Or was that a typo? Did you mean N14?

The goblins recoil in surprise at Nelly’s sudden move—but instinct takes over. Both snatch up their shortbows and loose in hurried succession.

Twang.

The first arrow skips off and goes wide into the brush.

Twang.

The second though...

OOC:

That’s 6 damage, but you can surely defend it.

Next round. After the rolls / information above, you have 3 actions each. What do you do?

HP lost
G1: 11
G2: 0

Rolls

Goblin's Shoot vs Nelly - (1d6+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

Goblin's Shoot vs Nelly - (1d6+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

Feb 13, 2026 3:48 am

OOC:

Rolling

OOC:

Edit: I assume I’m hidden once again. Now, are either G1 or G2 considered distracted for my nefarious purposes?

Last edited February 13, 2026 5:18 am

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+4)

(11) + 4 = 15

Feb 13, 2026 9:17 am

Avraham says:

OOC:

Edit: I assume I’m hidden once again. Now, are either G1 or G2 considered distracted for my nefarious purposes?

OOC:

Both. At least until you attack one of them. You have 3 actions =)

Feb 13, 2026 10:40 am

Repeating a strategy which has already been successful, Igrem will give some more contingencies through magic to Nelly, then blast one of the goblins after cautiously observing the situation to find the right timing and angle.

OOC:

Action #1: Cast Heart's Fire on Nelly
Action #2: Create an Opening before casting the next spell
Action #3: Cast Flame Dart at G1

Rolls

Assess roll using Perception - DC12 - (1d20+1, RA)

(9) + 1 = 10

Flame Dart damage - (1d10, RA)

(4) = 4

Feb 13, 2026 2:23 pm

OOC:

An I allowed to know if G1 is dead before Alex attacks?

Last edited February 13, 2026 2:23 pm

Feb 13, 2026 5:14 pm

htech says:

OOC:

Alex, you dont need to use
an action (Cheat lvl 2), but you're hiding in combat, so please make a DC 15 Stealth check

Nelly says:

1 action: Move to N4

Unh... You can only move 6 squares with one action. That’s M12. Or was that a typo? Did you mean N14?

OOC:

Yes that was a typo, i ment N19, south of the goblings, having their attention to leave Alex to attack them in the back. But much have happened, so lets just go with the current setup

Feb 13, 2026 5:17 pm

OOC:

Action 1 Move to O17
Action 2 Cast the true strike spell
Action 3 Hit Gobling 2

Nelly moves op to the goblin her glowing maze held high and bring it down on the skull of the second goblin. There is a flash of light as the mace makes contact.

[ +- ] 0: TRUE STRIKE

[ +- ] Radiant Judgment.

Last edited February 13, 2026 5:19 pm

Rolls

Mace Advantage1 w/Radient Judgment - (2d6h1+2+2d6, RA)

(163) + (643) + 2 = 24

Feb 14, 2026 12:18 am

Igrem angles his hand and releases a focused blast of fire at the nearer goblin, timing it for the instant the creature leans out.

The spell strikes.

The goblin is thrown backward into the briars with a strangled cry, body burning before collapsing in a limp heap, unmoving.

At the same moment, Nelly closes the final step.

Her mace—its head faintly glowing—comes down in a brutal arc. The weapon connects with the second goblin’s skull in a blinding flash of light.

Crack.

The radiance bursts outward on impact. When it fades, the goblin drops where it stood, skull shattered, bow slipping from lifeless fingers.

Silence returns to the cave mouth. The briar blind, once a hidden guard post, now holds only two still bodies.

OOC:

End of combat. What do you do?

Feb 14, 2026 3:54 pm

Nelly quickly examines the bodies and their small outpost.
This was a front guard post.

Alex will you take point further in? We will back you again.

Feb 15, 2026 3:22 am

"With pleasure, madam, Alex says with a bow, "perhaps we should first check the corpses for anything of value and move them out of the open, just in case they have friends on patrol?"

Last edited February 15, 2026 3:23 am

Feb 15, 2026 11:26 am

Nelly is emptying the goblin pockets as Alex suggest this

Feb 15, 2026 1:33 pm

A quick search reveals only the basics: two crude shortbows with half-filled quivers, a nicked dagger, and a notched shortsword that has seen far too much use. Nothing fancy, but serviceable.

Regardless, the group works quickly and without ceremony. The bodies are dragged off the main approach and pushed deeper into the forest, thorns swallowing them from casual view. A few scattered branches are pulled back into place, breaking up the outline of the disturbed ground.

Within moments, the lookout post looks abandoned again—silent, still, and deceptively empty.

The path into the cave now lies open.

OOC:

What do you do?

Feb 15, 2026 6:43 pm

"Shall we enter? Maybe a we could scout ahead a few meters past the entrance: we will always have the possibility to fall back if we are outnumbered." proposes Igrem, while looking at Alex.

Feb 15, 2026 9:11 pm

Alex slowly and carefully enters the cave, a bit ahead of his fellows, but remaining in shouting distance should things go poorly. He tries to keep his eyes peeled for anything unusual, like tripwires, animal spoor, or mounds of gold coins.

OOC:

Do I need to roll anything?

Rolls

GM edit: Stealth DC 12 - (1d20+4, RA)

(5) + 4 = 9

Feb 15, 2026 11:29 pm

Alex, you slip into the cave with deliberate care, each step placed very precisely. The light dies quickly behind you, swallowed by damp stone and shadow. Even so, your eyes adjust enough to make out shapes and movement in the gloom.

This part is dim but not pitch black. Faint daylight leaks in from the entrance, and the pale sheen of water reflects just enough light to guide your steps. You move slowly, testing each patch of ground before committing your weight.

The constant murmur of flowing water fills the cave, echoing softly off the walls. It works in your favor—footfalls and your soft movement are swallowed by the sound. Anything deeper inside would have to be listening very carefully to notice you.

The floor is uneven. Jagged stalagmites jut upward like stone teeth, rising from the ground in irregular clusters. They offer pockets of natural cover if needed, though navigating between them requires care.

A shallow stream winds through the cavern, no more than two feet deep. You test it with a boot—cold, but slow-moving and manageable. You can cross it without much trouble, though it would chill you if you were barefooted.

Just inside the cave mouth, at the limit of what you can see, you notice a set of rough stone steps climbing up into a small side chamber on the eastern wall. The air there is thicker—dank, close, and foul. Then the smell hits you.

Wet fur. Rot. Animal musk.A low, rumbling snarl rolls out of the darkness ahead, followed by the metallic rattle of chains dragging against stone.

As your vision sharpens, you make them out: two wolves, chained just inside the opening of the passage beyond. Their eyes glint in the dim light, lips curled back from yellowed fangs as they strain against their restraints, hackles raised.

They’ve noticed you. And they do not sound friendly.

OOC:

Alex, what do you do?

Feb 17, 2026 11:45 pm

Pinging @Avraham

Feb 18, 2026 7:12 am

Once Nelly hears the animal sounds, she follows Alex in to back him up.

Feb 18, 2026 8:28 am

OOC:

Sorry, was out of town celebrating the birth of another grandchild. I thought I'd have time to squeeze in a post; I didn't. Sorry.

Alexander Simonnet Natalis de Bertier du Puy, scion of the du Puys of Amphail and environs had a deep love for fauna of all kinds. Was his family not reknown for centuries as breeding the finest horseflesh in the North? Was he not beloved of all canine, feline, ovine, bovine, caprine, and even leporine residents of the farms and homes of his youth? Certainement! Then why was he, not retreating, but slowly returning to his fellows with an ever-so slight quiver in his normally rock-steady hands? It wouldn't be the slavering jaws, the rank breath, the evil yellow glare emanating from those two, rather large, noticeably hungry wolves, would it? No, of course not. He merely wanted to inform Nelly and Igrem. Yes, that was it. Of course! He did make a point of checking just how well the wolves seemed to be chained and if he could ascertain just how long a reach they had, as he carefully made his way to his companions. Maybe we can engage their attention with some nice, fresh, dead goblin flesh, he ponders.

OOC:

Alex would very much not like to have to engage the wolves. He is trying to determine if the party can get by the wolves (obviously not stealthly) with no danger of becoming afternoon snacks.

Feb 18, 2026 12:04 pm

Alex, you can certainly try. The wolves are chained and won't pursue.

Someone should light a torch and roll Naturecraft. If you spend the extra time retrieving the goblin meat (which you just got rid of) the DC will be significantly lower, but you run the risk of patrols or someone entering or leaving the cave seeing you as you do that.

OOC:

What do you do?

Feb 18, 2026 1:37 pm

Igrem lights up a lantern, and approaches his companions before the entrance of the cave where the wolves are attached. "Are you sure you want to continue further? I would hate to be caught between hostile goblins and hungry wolves further down the tunnel..."

Feb 18, 2026 5:46 pm

While the others fiddle with a torch, Nelly retrieves one of the dead goblings and drags it with her. By the wolf den, she throws in the corps and a moment later throws in the other corps aswell.

Live by the wolf, die, and feed the wolf.
They are busy now, let's rescue our folks

Rolls

Nelly: Naturecraft - (1d20+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

Feb 19, 2026 4:32 am

Alex watches bemusedly as Nelly drags the goblin-flesh and throws it at the ravenous wolves. Of course, he watches from a distance.

OOC:

One of us has to roll a Naturecraft check. It should be the one with the best chances, I reckon. I get a +2.

Last edited February 19, 2026 4:33 am

Feb 19, 2026 3:31 pm

OOC:

The roll was to calm/distract the wolves, so Nelly is the one who did it. I added the check.

Nelly, for a moment, nothing happens.

Then the wolves react—but not as expected. They barely spare the bodies a glance. Instead of falling on the meat, both beasts surge forward, chains snapping taut with a harsh metallic rattle. Their snarls deepen into something more agitated.

Moreover, from deeper within the shadows, a third shape shifts. Another wolf steps into view, and it doesn’t go for the bodies either.

All three strain against their chains now—focused not on the dead goblins, but on you.

OOC:

What do you do?

Feb 19, 2026 3:53 pm

Nelly retreats from the room, trying to be non-treathening
Worth a shot she mutters to her self.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Feb 19, 2026 9:50 pm

You retreat.

OOC:

What do you do?

Feb 19, 2026 9:55 pm

"Well, that went splendidly", Alex remarks to Nelly and Igrem. "I guess the wolves are full up to their snouts with goblinflesh. It must taste rather awful, come to think of it." Alex contemplates on whether the group can sneak by single-file without getting mauled. "We may be able to just move past them. However, if we do find ourselves in a jam, someone may release the wolves and add to our general misery. No one has any alcohol on them, do they?

Feb 20, 2026 11:38 pm

OOC:

Quote:

No one has any alcohol on them, do they?

No...

Nelly, Igrem, what do you do?

Feb 21, 2026 8:41 am

Duck it! Lets just move past that entrance and move on. Leave wolfs chained up in there with the goblins

Nelly takes point and swiftly moves past the wolf entrance. Quickly out of sight again.

Feb 21, 2026 8:51 am

OOC:

runekyndig says:

Duck it! Lets just move past that entrance and move on. Leave wolfs chained up in there with the goblins

Nelly takes point (...)

Certainly doable. No need to roll. Who has a torch and who has not so I can update the map and describe the next room correctly?

Feb 21, 2026 7:30 pm

"I have a bad feeling about this..." says Igrem, agreeing with Alex that the three companions could end up between the hammer and the anvil. Still he follows, his lantern in hand.

Feb 23, 2026 12:10 am

Alex watches as Igrem and Nelly rush ahead into the dark. I guess I'll take up the rear guard. I hope they can be somewhat quiet, he thinks amusedly. Sidling carefully past the ravenous wolves, Alex slowly follows the pair, hoping that they don't bump into anything nasty. Like tripwires or deadfalls. He watches his steps carefully, knowing that goblins like to spice their lair with surprises.

Feb 23, 2026 12:51 am

Nelly slips past the wolf den at a quick, steady pace. Behind her, the wolves thrash and snarl, chains clattering against stone, but the sound fades as she pushes deeper into the cave, boots splashing softly as the shallow water spreads across the cave floor.

The cold seeps through the leather, but the slow current makes it easy enough to ignore.

Only a few steps farther in, the passage divides.

To the left, a set of rough but clearly carved stone steps climbs upward about five feet into a side passage. Unlike the rest of the cave, this direction shows signs of use—faint, flickering torchlight spills down the steps, and the air feels warmer, touched by the scent of smoke and humanoids.

To the right, the main tunnel continues northward, following the stream deeper into darkness, where the only sound is the quiet flow of water and the hollow echoes of the cavern.

OOC:

What do you do?

Feb 23, 2026 4:53 am

Well, friends, I think we should stop here a moment and let me sneak down this side tunnel and see what is there, Alex whispers to Nelly and Igrem.I am very worried that if we continue, we will find ourselves the meat in a goblin sandwich. Thoughts?

Feb 23, 2026 11:07 am

"None." whispers back Igrem, a bit tongue-in-cheek. "Feel free to go ahead."

Feb 23, 2026 1:43 pm

Nelly nots to Alex.
Again, she stands ready to rush in if he gets into problems

Feb 23, 2026 8:37 pm

OOC:

Alex, are you going in total darkness or are you going to light a torch?

Gimme a Stealth check, please.

Feb 24, 2026 5:15 am

Alex regretfully lights a torch, being that otherwise, he's likely to fall prey to anything. One of these days, when I get a few more coppers, I will need to invest in a hooded lantern he thinks. Being as stealthy as he can holding a flaming brand, Alex proceeds carefully, ready to cover or douse the torch at a moments notice.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+4, RA)

(8) + 4 = 12

Feb 25, 2026 12:59 am

Alex, the torch catches with a low whoomph, warm light pushing back the suffocating darkness. It is dangerous how obvious the torch feels—like announcing your presence with a trumpet—but without it, one misstep could send you sprawling into some goblin contraption, so that's likely the lesser evil. Anyway, you move on.

Ahead, the tunnel widens abruptly into a larger chamber. The smell hits you before the sight does—thick cooking smoke, rancid hides, damp fur, and the unmistakable musk of too many unwashed goblins in too small a space.

The cave is split in two by a ten-foot-high escarpment running across it. The lower section spreads out before you, while a steep, natural stone staircase (at D8) climbs to an upper ledge overlooking the room from the south. You cannot clearly see what's happening upstairs as you didn't dare to approach further.

That's because down in the lower—northern—portion of the cave, near the wall, you spot five ordinary goblins clustered around a small cooking fire. A battered pot hangs over the flames, something foul bubbling within. Crude bedrolls and heaps of poorly cured hides are scattered about, marking this as either a common room or a barracks.

OOC:

What do you do?

Feb 25, 2026 6:29 am

Alex douses the torch and slowly shuffles back to Nelly and Igrem, relying on his memory if the short trip in. Reaching the pair, he quickly updates them as to the lay of the land. If it was only a five-on-three, I'd take it. Especially since I can probably get the jump on one before they even know I'm there. I'm worried about what is up the stairs. If we all move quietly, maybe we can take two or three of them out right at the start. Maybe. There is something up those stairs, though. Possibly treasure. Possibly our employers, and possible a gate to the Nine Hells for all I know. It smells rancid enough.

Feb 25, 2026 10:08 am

Nelly tigthens the strap on her shield and secures the loop of her mace, around her wrist.
She is ready for a brawl

Feb 25, 2026 10:18 am

"There is always the possibility of going straight ahead [towards O6]. It could be risky, but maybe it is better to know the layout of these caves before escalating things." suggests Igrem, obviously not eager to rush into combat.

Feb 25, 2026 5:22 pm

That makes sense, Alex responds to Igrem. Let me sneak down that path for a bit. Alex relights his torch and carefully moves down the path, ready to slip into darkness at a moments notice.

Feb 25, 2026 11:49 pm

Alex, you hear a waterfall echoing from a larger cavern ahead, the sound muffled but constant. Above the narrow channel, a rickety wooden bridge spans the gap, linking two tunnels nearly twenty feet overhead. In the dim torchlight, you catch the faintest movement — a squat shape pressed low against the bridge railing. A goblin lies in wait there, trying to stay hidden, but not quite hidden enough.

OOC:

What do you do?

Rolls

Alex: Perception - (1d20+2, RA)

(13) + 2 = 15

Feb 26, 2026 10:49 am

Igrem looks at Alex, expectantly waiting for him to communicate what he found out.

Feb 26, 2026 4:30 pm

OOC:

Does Alex know if the goblin has seen him or his torch?

Feb 26, 2026 7:16 pm

OOC:

The goblin is hiding?
Its is pointed out to Nelly?
If yes and yes: Then Nelly cast a rebuke against the cowderly

[ +- ] 0: REBUKE

18 points of damage?! Wow

Last edited February 26, 2026 7:18 pm

Rolls

REBUKE x2 - (1d6, RA)

(63) = 9

Feb 27, 2026 9:38 pm

Avraham says:

OOC:

Does Alex know if the goblin has seen him or his torch?

Has not seen either, apparently.

runekyndig says:

OOC:

The goblin is hiding?
Its is pointed out to Nelly?
If yes and yes: Then Nelly cast a rebuke against the cowderly

[ +- ] 0: REBUKE

18 points of damage?! Wow

Yes and probably yes. I will let Avraham roleplay this. Please tell us what Alex did.

Everybody, please roll Initiative, with Advantage, to see how many actions you have. Nelly’s used her first action, but maybe she has more. Players go first.

PS: The goblin is probably dead, but we will stay in combat.

Feb 28, 2026 4:30 pm

OOC:

Ini'nt to win'nt

Rolls

Initiative - (2d20H1+0, RA)

(13) = 3

Feb 28, 2026 6:56 pm

Igrem gets ready to act.

Rolls

Inititative - (2d20H1+2, RA)

(23) + 2 = 5

Mar 1, 2026 5:50 pm

As Alex prepares to slink back and inform the party of his findings, Nelly rushes by and lets loose a torrent of arcane syllables. Before he could even reach out and stop her from breaking stealth, the goblin on the bridge seems to seize up, stiffen, and then collapses with an awful wheeze. So much for the quiet option Alex thinks.

As the goblin collapses, Alex draws his sling—being that there are no visible goblins in melee range—and scans the area for enemies and advantages [Action 1: Assess - Perception].

OOC:

I should get at least one action. If the roll allows me more, it will depend on the response to the assessment. I believe perception is best under the circumstances.

Rolls

Initiative w/ Advantage - (2d20h1+3)

(518) + 3 = 21

Assess - Perception DC12 - (1d20+2)

(16) + 2 = 18

Mar 2, 2026 12:15 am

Nelly, you noticed Alex’s subtle cue and traced his gaze upward. There — a shape clinging to the shadows on the rickety bridge. A goblin sentry, trying to make itself small. Trying to hide.

"Coward!." - you rebuke, in the magical and powerful Divine Language.

Then you lift a hand and point, channeling the divine fury coiled in you. Radiance bursts forth in a searing line, a merciless ray that slams into the cowering figure.

Light floods the bridge.

The goblin convulses as the power hits — body locking rigid, a choked gasp tearing from its throat. It collapses in a limp heap, smoke curling faintly from its body.

Dead.

Alex, yeah, you barely have time to react before Nelly obliterates the sentry in a flash of holy power.

Regardless, your eyes sweep the cavern.

First: the bridge. The high ground is obvious — and dangerous. Whoever holds it commands the tunnels below. You catch movement in the dim light beyond: two more goblins, startled but alive, somewhere near you.

Also, you notice that the space beneath the bridge is a maze of shadows, jagged stones and rushing waters. Down there, sightlines break apart. If someone needed to disappear, the darkness under the bridge would make it very, very easy.

OOC:

Alex, you have 2 actions left. Igrem, you have 1

What do you do?

Mar 2, 2026 12:30 am

Alex calls out to Nelly and Igrem a quick tactical update: "two more up top, shadows below, 'ware the goblins and wolves behind!" As he does so, he is spinning his sling, which just as he finishes the update, he lets loose towards the closer goblin [Action 2: Attack G8].

Watching the stone impact on the goblin and ricochet to the side, Alex understands he has wounded the creature but not incapacitated it. A touch of your luck would be of most welcome, my Lady, Alex whispers in prayer has he moves into the shadows under the bridge to break the creatures' lines of sight [Action 3: Move Q7 lower level or thereabouts]. Taking a moment to control his breathing, Alex melts into the shadows [Cheat Hide: (1/round) You may either Move or Hide for free].

Last edited March 2, 2026 12:35 am

Rolls

Sling (G8) - (1d4+2, RA)

(2) + 2 = 4

Mar 2, 2026 12:18 pm

Igrem makes just one step forward and casts a flaming dart at the goblin attacked by Alex (G8), hoping to neutralize it definitely.

Rolls

Flame dart damage - (1d10, RA)

(2) = 2

Goblin warriors

Mar 3, 2026 8:32 am

From the upper tunnels, the remaining two goblins scramble forward, startled by the flash of divine light and the sudden death of their companion. They rush onto the bridge, peering over the railing to understand what is happening below.

Then they spot Nelly and Igrem. The goblins shriek in anger and snatch javelins from their backs. Without further hesitation, they hurl them downward.

OOC:

Nelly, Igrem, see damage below.

Alex, Q7 is 10ft above and you didn't describe climbing, so I put you as close as possible to it but still hidden beneath the bridge.

Igrem, you had just one action, spent with the flame dart, so the step was just for flavor, keeping him in the same square.

HP lost
G8: 6
G7: 0

OOC:

Next round. What do you do?

Goblin warriors

Rolls

Goblin's Shoot vs Nelly (high ground) - (2d6h1+2, RA)

(641) + 2 = 12

Goblin's Shoot vs Igrem (high ground) - (2d6h1+2, RA)

(613) + 2 = 9

Mar 3, 2026 9:49 am

Igrem takes the hit, which cuts his breathing. Out of spite, he hurls back a Flame Dart at the goblin who target him. Then he approaches the bridge but does not cross it yet. Instead, he casts Heart's Fire again on Alex, to provide him with more contingencies.

OOC:

Action #1: casts Flame Dart on G8
Action #2: moves up to O4
Action #3: casts Heart's Fire on Alex

Rolls

Flame Dart damage - (1d10, RA)

(3) = 3

Mar 3, 2026 10:29 am

Nelly lifts her shield, but the arrow goes through and into her arm. This does not stop her, however as she charages ind and strike down goblin with her radiant judgement.

OOC:

Action#1: Reaction: Defend. I subtract my armor (8) from the 12 points of damage. I'll mark 4 points of damage on my sheet.
Action#2: Move to Q5
Action#3: Strike G8

Last edited March 3, 2026 10:30 am

Rolls

Mace w/Radient Judgment - (1d6+2+2d6, RA)

(4) + (53) + 2 = 14

Mar 4, 2026 6:37 pm

Igrem, you climb the northern stones, taking care to avoid overextending yourself. As you move, you murmur the familiar syllables of Heart’s Fire, sending a pulse of empowering magic toward the shadows where Alex hides.

On the southern side, Nelly grunts as a projectile punches through her guard and bites into her arm. Regardless, wirh shield lifted and mace blazing faintly, she charges up the southern stone incline towards the higher ground, boots striking hard against rock.

Igrem’s fire scorches across the goblin’s chest at the same instant Nelly’s mace comes crashing down in a burst of divine light. The impact is decisive.

The goblin’s body jerks once, then collapses onto the stone floor, lifeless.

HP lost
G7: 0

OOC:

Nelly, you are 10ft (3 meters) above Alex now. This map is a little harder to see because there are two heights here. Q5 is below the bridge, so I moved you as close as possible to the desired location but letting you attack G8 with the mace.

OOC:

Alex, what do you do?

Mar 4, 2026 6:50 pm

OOC:

How much movement must I take to climb to where G7 is. If I can do so, given I am hidden, may I climb behind and surprise/consider G8 distracted for melee attack purposes?

Mar 4, 2026 7:16 pm

OOC:

Avraham says:

How much movement must I take to climb to where G7 is. If I can do so, given I am hidden, may I climb behind and surprise/consider G8 distracted for melee attack purposes?

G8 is dead =)

You can use one Action to move to T5 (but it's dark there, you would need a torch to continue and go around to hit G7 from behind)

You can also use one Action to climb and move to Q7, so you can melee attack the distracted goblin.

Mar 4, 2026 7:27 pm

As Alex listens to the fracas above, he feels a wave of energy wash over him, similar to the ambush at the dead horses. Igrem needs to bottle that stuff and sell it. It's better than a double espresso! Awash with vim and vigor, Alex climbs up to engage the remaining goblin who is focused on Nelly [Action 1: Move to Q7 upper level]. Taking advantage of the goblin's focus, Alex skillfully inserts his sword between the goblin's scrawny ribs [Action 2: Attack. Vicious Opportunist - setting die roll to 6 so crit plus sneak attack. Will roll for exploding damage and assume crit].

OOC:

@htech my remaining two actions depend on whether or not the goblin is dead now after 19 points of loving embrace.

Last edited March 4, 2026 7:28 pm

Rolls

Short Sword after Vicious Opportunist - (1d6+2+6, RA)

(5) + 8 = 13

Sneak Attack on crit - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Mar 5, 2026 12:23 am

The remaining goblin is fully fixated on Nelly. It never sees Alex emerge from the shadow at its flank. Not until it’s too late.

Taking advantage of the goblin's focus, Alex skillfully inserts his sword between the goblin's scrawny ribs.

The goblin’s eyes go wide in disbelief as Alex withdraws the sword. For a heartbeat it sways, arms twitching uselessly, then it collapses onto the bridge planks, joining its kin in death.

OOC:

End of combat. What do you do?

Mar 5, 2026 4:43 am

Whew. That was close. But I think we may have gotten them all before the goblins to the west were alerted, Alex whispers to Nelly and Igrem. He continues, if you check for valuables, I will try and sneak down this corridor and see what these three were guarding. Stay quiet, who knows what lies ahead, and we know around five goblins and three wolves lie behind! Alex concentrates on calming his racing heart and coming off the adrenaline high. Ensuring that everything that could clink or clank is tied down or muted, he slowly creeps eastwards to ascertain what, or who, the goblins were guarding. He listens carefully for any noise, not knowing what the party would face next.

Mar 5, 2026 11:22 am

Igrem slowly climbs the wooden bridge and helps search the goblin corpses, trying to do as little fuss as possible, while keeping an eye on Alex.

Mar 5, 2026 4:59 pm

Nelly ways one of the goblins short swords in her hand before she discards it.
I don't understand why they can't take care of their gear?

Are anyone hurt? Nelly uses a little of her magic to mend the would in her arm. She is still soar but she is not leaking blood anymore

OOC:

lay on hands for 4 hp

Lets find our people...

Mar 6, 2026 12:27 am

Alex, you move slowly along the eastern passage, placing each step with deliberate care. You path opens into a broad cavern.

Roughly half the chamber is taken up by two large pools of dark water. Small gray fish dart lazily beneath the surface, their pale bodies flashing in the dim light. High on the eastern wall, a narrow waterfall spills down into the nearer pool, its steady cascade feeding the water that eventually drains westward.

Low fieldstone walls have been stacked across parts of the cavern to form crude dams, holding the pools in place. The water laps quietly against the stones before slipping through gaps and continuing its journey out of the cave.

Torchlight flickers from iron sconces set into the stone walls, casting uneven shadows across the wet rock.

Near the pools stand three goblins.

They appear to be on guard duty—but at the moment their attention is anything but disciplined. The creatures crouch near the water’s edge, occasionally jabbing crude spears into the pools in clumsy attempts to spear the small gray fish. One of them grumbles irritably while another laughs quietly at a failed attempt.

The sound of the waterfall fills the cavern, its constant rush making it difficult to hear anything beyond the immediate area.

A small passage (Y11) leads south from this chamber.

Mar 6, 2026 12:37 am

Igrem, in addition to 3 crude and jagged shortswords, you find 5 gold pieces and a bundle of 4 javelins. There is nothing else of note with the goblins.

OOC:

What do you do?

Rolls

Gold - (2d4, RA)

(32) = 5

Mar 6, 2026 1:57 am

OOC:

As the map is 2D, I want to know if there is only one path from the main cavern to where the rest of the party is. I'm thinking about choke points and only having to fight one goblin at a time. Also, what about cover/concealment in the cavern? Thanks.

Alex slowly and quietly looks over the carven with an eye to the tactics needed to handle this new group of foes.

Mar 6, 2026 11:03 am

Alex, the waterfall’s steady roar gives you cover for sounds, but it also means you must rely more on sight than hearing.

From your vantage point, the cavern has three clear exits. One is the passage you currently occupy to the northwest, where you entered. Another leads west, back toward the bridge area where Igrem and Nelly wait. The third is the passage opening to the south, its darkness swallowing whatever lies beyond. There is nothing else.

OOC:

Yup, there are only yours and Igrem's path, working as natural choke points

Your eyes move across the chamber, measuring angles and opportunities. The floor of the cave is uneven, broken by a few natural stalagmites rising like jagged stone teeth. Three in particular stand out as useful cover: one near U5, another at V7, and a third farther off at W9. Each could conceal someone crouching low, offering protection from arrows or javelins if things turn loud and violent.

The goblins themselves remain near the pools, their attention still focused on stabbing at fish and bickering among themselves. None of them have yet glanced toward you.

Rolls

Alex: Stealth - (1d20+4, RA)

Mar 6, 2026 3:52 pm

Alex slowly backs away from the cavern and retraces his steps to his companions. He carefully describes the tableau to Nelly and Igrem. I think if we are careful, we can get the jump on the from a ranged persepctive, certainly. Sneaking all the way up to melee range may be more difficult. What say you two? Are you both sufficiently recharged and refreshed?

Mar 6, 2026 6:14 pm

Igrem pockets the coins, but leaves the weapons as he does not want to encumber himself (and would not know how to use them well).

He nods at Alex. "That's a grim path we are going through. Have you seen any signs of prisoners?"

Last edited March 7, 2026 6:37 pm

Mar 6, 2026 7:46 pm

Nelly kneels down in the small hallway, allowing the others to shoot over her. When they get here, she will stop them

Mar 6, 2026 7:52 pm

Igrem says:

That's a grim path we are going throw. Have you seen any signs of prisoners?

OOC:

htech sent a note to Avraham

What do you do?

Mar 6, 2026 8:04 pm

Nothing as of yet, Igrem, Alex whispers. Alex looks at Nelly. You're going to have to get closer than that, I fear, he whispers.

OOC:

If Nelly moves to T8 or U8 and Alex moves to U5, we can probably surprise them. @htech would that give us advantage? Personally, I would love to get into melee range against a distracted foe for the auto-crit, but that would leave me in a 3-on-1 even if I make it there. So I think wounding them at range and letting them close may be best, and we'll handle distracted foes later. Thoughts? PS, I'll be logging off soon and logging back on Saturday night.

Mar 7, 2026 10:58 am

OOC:

runekyndig says:

Nelly kneels down in the small hallway, allowing the others to shoot over her. When they get here, she will stop them

Avraham says:

If Nelly moves to T8 or U8 and Alex moves to U5, we can probably surprise them. htech would that give us advantage?

Sure. Please confirm your starting positions using grid coordinates, then roll Initiative, with Advantage, and tell me your other 1-3 actions.

Quote:

Thoughts?

Will leave that to @runekyndig,@kwll

Mar 7, 2026 6:10 pm

OOC:

Nelly starts somewhere v8

Rolls

Initiative - (2d20H1+0, RA)

(158) = 15

Mar 7, 2026 6:50 pm

OOC:

Letting the enemy come to us is probably the better option.

Rolls

Inititative - (2d20h1+2)

(1419) + 2 = 21

Mar 8, 2026 11:43 am

OOC:

Alex, what do you do?

Igrem, you have 3 actions, Nelly, you have 2. That means you can talk, persuade, threaten, cast spells, take cover... Or just wait and "do nothing".

Unfortunately, there is no Ready action, like we have on D&D.

Here is the current map. What do you do?

Mar 8, 2026 2:11 pm

Where is the human prisoners?
We want them returned, and then we will leave!
Nelly is confident that any noise they make here by the waterfall will only be heard here.

[ +- ] Paragon of Virtue.

Then she makes an Assesment. Will they flee, fight or talk?

Rolls

Influence 1 - tell us about the prisoners - (2d20h1+3, RA)

(1418) + 3 = 21

Insight 1 - assesment - (1d20+3, RA)

(4) + 3 = 7

Mar 8, 2026 6:41 pm

OOC:

Am I allowed to wait until the results of Nelly's assessment?

Rolls

Initiative w/ Advantage - (2d20h1+3)

(310) + 3 = 13

Goblins

Mar 8, 2026 9:10 pm

The three goblins jerk upright in alarm, spears half-raised as they spin toward the sound. One nearly falls into the pool, splashing water as it scrambles backward.

"Wha—who there?!" one shrieks.

Their yellow eyes dart around the cavern until they spot you at the passage entrance. For a moment they look ready to bolt, then to attack, then back to bolting again. One goblin bares its teeth nervously. When it speaks, the words come in Common, though mangled by a thick, ugly accent.

"No! No tell! Where human!" it squeaks quickly, shaking its head so hard its ears flap. "If we tell, Klarg kill us! Klarg smash! Klarg always smash!"

Another goblin nods frantically, pointing south.

"Klarg big boss! Bugbear! Very strong! Very mean!" it adds. "Man prisoner is in barracks. But no tell you that! Klarg kill us if tell!"

The third goblin looks between its companions and you, eyes narrowing as a different thought seems to occur to it.

"Yeemik smarter," it mutters. "Yeemik great goblin, second boss. Yeemik less smash than Klarg… but Klarg bigger. Klarg stronger."

It scratches its chin, then grins crookedly, revealing crooked yellow teeth.

"But… if someone kill Klarg…" the goblin says slowly, glancing between you and its companions, "then Yeemik boss. Yeemik maybe talk more. Maybe trade prisoners."

The three goblins fall quiet again, clearly nervous, watching you carefully.

OOC:

Out of initiative. What do you do?

Goblins

Mar 9, 2026 1:25 am

OOC:

Can Alex tell if he is hidden? If he is, he will not expose himself yet. If he is seen, he may switch to blarney and Influence.

Mar 9, 2026 8:44 am

OOC:

Alex, they probably didn't notice you.

Rolls

Alexander: Stealth - (1d20+4, RA)

Mar 9, 2026 2:43 pm

Alex thinks that the goblins are focused on Nelly, so maybe he can sneak up a little more to better position himself if things go sour. He will slowly make his way to the second pillar so as to be within melee range, should he desire. Once there, he will study the tableau to be best prepared to support Nelly and Igrem as needed.

Actions: [Free Action: Hide]; [Action 1: Move (to V7)]; [Action 2: Assess (Insight) Anticipate Danger]; Lose Action 3.

Rolls

Stealth (If needed) - (1d20+4)

(12) + 4 = 16

Insight - (1d20+2)

(7) + 2 = 9

Mar 9, 2026 3:36 pm

We will talk with Klarg
We will not tell Klarg how we know his name.
If Klarg is a weak leader, he will order you to attack us
If Klarg is a stupid leade,r he will attack up himself.
And then there will be room for a smart leader.

Show us the way to Klarg

Treacherous little wretches

Mar 9, 2026 9:42 pm

The three goblins glance nervously at one another. Then one swallows hard and points with a shaky claw toward the southern passage.

"Klarg… that way," it says reluctantly.

Another goblin nods quickly, eager to agree. "Big cave. Klarg stay with treasure and wolf. Big wolf."

The third goblin shifts its weight and scratches at its ear, clearly uncomfortable with how much they’ve already said. After a moment it gestures again toward the southern tunnel.

"You go deal with Klarg," it says. "We stay here. Watch fish. Guard dams."

They step back slightly from the pools, spears still in hand but clearly not eager to fight. They will let you pass.

OOC:

What do you do?

Treacherous little wretches

Mar 10, 2026 5:28 am

OOC:

I will wait for Igrem to pass me and then I will move quietly behind him. I am not trying to hide from the goblins, per se, but I do not want this "Klarg" to hear me.

Mar 10, 2026 8:43 am

OOC:

Igrem, what do you do?

Mar 10, 2026 1:27 pm

Igrem is not comfortable to let the 3 goblins behind while dealing with their leader. Not only does he not trust their word, but he realizes that they would so many reasons and so many occasions to make a foul play that it does not feel this is a proper course of action.

"I believe it is better if you lead us to your leader. Otherwise, I might need to stay with you..." he says, while briefly igniting his fingers in order to impress them. "... and I might want to start a bonfire at some point. Problem is I am not always very skilled when it comes to controlling my powers."

He looks at them intently, with a grin.

Mar 10, 2026 7:38 pm

Alex shakes his head in the shadows. I thought that goblins are the most craven of humanoids, possibly excepting kobolds. We'd probably have been safe, especially looking at their body language. Oh well, I will stay hidden and shadow them as I'm certain they will turn on us the moment they see Klarg.

Spineless trio

Mar 10, 2026 8:39 pm

The three goblins exchange quick, uneasy glances as Igrem’s fingers briefly flare with dancing firelight. The sudden glow reflects in their wide eyes, and one of them instinctively takes a half step back.

For a moment they whisper to one another in their harsh, chittering tongue. Then the boldest of the three looks back at Igrem and shakes its head firmly.

"No, no," it says, raising both hands defensively. "Not lead. Klarg not like that. Klarg say only goblins go there. We won't go with you. We die."

Another goblin nods vigorously, pointing a claw toward Igrem.

"Mage stay here," it adds quickly. "Stay with us. Watch fish. No trouble."

OOC:

What do you do?

Spineless trio

Mar 11, 2026 10:32 am

Igrem looks at Nelly, looking for counsel.

Mar 11, 2026 7:02 pm

Nelly gives Igrem a nod of her head, indicating that they should stay together and face Klarg together

Mar 12, 2026 8:39 am

OOC:

Igrem, what do you do?

Mar 12, 2026 9:53 am

Igrem nods back at Nelly, then addresses the goblins again, more threatening this time: "You can face an assured death here facing us, or you can go with us and have a chance to survive. Sounds like an obvious choice to me."

Rolls

GM edit: Influence - (1d20+2, RA)

(3) + 2 = 5

The Cackling Trio

Mar 12, 2026 9:33 pm

The three goblins stare at Igrem for a moment after his threat, their eyes flicking between his face and the fire still dancing along his fingers.

Then one of them snorts.

Another starts to chuckle.

Within seconds all three are laughing—sharp, ugly cackles that echo off the damp stone walls.

"You?" one goblin wheezes between laughs, pointing a claw at Igrem.

The second goblin mimics throwing something poorly, making exaggerated swooshing noises. "Mage throw fire—whoosh!—miss goblin! Hit wall! Hit water!"

The third slaps its knee, shaking its head. "Yes, yes! Mage miss again! And again!"

They gesture toward the fish pools, still laughing.

"Maybe hit fish instead!"

OOC:

What do you do?

The Cackling Trio

Mar 13, 2026 1:09 am

Alex still crouches in the shadows, staying as silent as he can, considering that given the way the conversation is heading, the party could use an ace up their sleeve.

Mar 13, 2026 3:25 pm

"That is quiet enough!" says Igrem, losing his temper, before casting an Ice Lance towards the second goblin who was mimicking him. "Fire is not the only element at my disposal!"

Rolls

Ice Lance damage - (1d6, RA)

(4) = 4

Mar 13, 2026 6:11 pm

Oh sh!t. Now everyone is going to come running. Igrem needs some anger management therapy! Alex thinks as he quietly draws his short sword, watching the three goblins and Nelly to decide on the most opportune time to attack.

OOC:

At V7, Alex is in move range of any of the three goblins. Under the circumstances, his plan is to attack the healthiest distracted one.

Mar 13, 2026 7:34 pm

Nelly frowns at the spectical - they just had an agreement, and now they are breaking faith...
Stop it - all of you.
We are here for our people - that is it.
Break faith and I'll break you! Got it?
It is not clear if she is speaking to the goblins or Alex with the drawn sword.

Mar 13, 2026 8:11 pm

OOC:

@runekyndig Alex is hidden; I'm not sure you can see him.

Mar 13, 2026 9:44 pm

Igrem's spell streaks across the chamber in a flash of cold. It hits. The goblins’ laughter dies instantly. Across the chamber, Nelly says:

Nelly says:

Stop it - all of you.
We are here for our people - that is it.
Break faith and I'll break you! Got it?

For a moment it’s unclear who she’s addressing.

But the goblins don’t care.

The ice magic and the threat have done what the taunts could not.

The three goblins bare their teeth, fury replacing their earlier smugness. Spears snap up in their hands as they snarl at Igrem.

"Mage attack first!" one shrieks.

"Kill mage!" another howls.

They surge forward together.

OOC:

Please, everyone, roll Initiative (normal, no advantage or disadvantage). Players act first (or you can forgo your actions and wait for the goblins). Regardless, it looks like all the goblins are going to band together and attack Igrem.

Mar 13, 2026 9:50 pm

Avraham sent a note to htech

Rolling initiative.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+3)

(7) + 3 = 10

Short Sword (assuming distracted - otherwise forget +6) - (1d6+2+6, RA)

(2) + 8 = 10

Sneak Attack assuming distraction - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Mar 14, 2026 8:37 am

Faith breakers! Nellys hand is thrusts out towards the 3 goblins. Each is struck by a radiant Rebuke

[ +- ] 0: REBUKE

OOC:

3 actions, 3 rebukes, there are no to-hit-die rolls to have disadvantage when she rush them :D

Last edited March 14, 2026 8:42 am

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+0, RA)

(2015) = 35

Rebuke - (1d6, RA)

(1) = 1

Rebuke - (1d6, RA)

(61) = 7

Rebuke - (1d6, RA)

(3) = 3

GM edit: Rebuke 2 Disadvantage - (1d6, RA)

(1) = 1

GM edit: Rebuke 3 Disadvantage - (2d6l1, RA)

(12) = 1

Mar 14, 2026 11:48 am

OOC:

Quote:

3 actions, 3 rebukes, there are no to-hit-die rolls to have disadvantage when she rush them

Indeed there is no chance to miss. But you do receive Disadvantage on the damage roll with rushed attacks. The rule is that rushed attacks lowers the average damage. ;)

I added them above.

Edit: That’s 1 damage each.

OOC:

Igrem, what do you do?

HP lost
G9: 5
G10: 1
G11: 1

Mar 14, 2026 4:36 pm

Igrem clenches his teeth but does not reply, concentrating on the combat ahead.

Rolls

Inititative - (1d20+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

Mar 14, 2026 6:57 pm

One of the goblins (G10) advances towards Igrem, but before the goblin can get close enough to attack with his spear, Alex stabs him.

OOC:

See the dice roll in Alex's previous post

OOC:

Igrem, you have one action left. What do you do?

HP lost
G9: 5
G10: 12
G11: 1

Mar 15, 2026 12:31 am

Emerging from the shadows, Alex thrusts his short sword into the side of the goblin. Unfortunately for him, the goblin still remains on this side of the mortal coil. Alex quickly glances around to determine the lay of the land. too close quarters for me to drop back into sling range. Hopefully, I'll be nimble [no pun intended] enough to attack those engaged with others and perhaps use their focus to our advantage. But in that case, I will need to be careful to try and stay out of a one-on-one myself [Action 2: Anticipate Danger - Perception].

OOC:

DM, I believe I have a third action and a free action of move/hide. Can I move/hide now to get out of sight and move back in for a distracted attack next round? I guess rolling stealth?

OOC:

EDIT: I keep on forgetting to turn off RA for anything but attack rolls. Sorry.

Last edited March 15, 2026 12:32 am

Rolls

Perception DC12 - (1d20+2, RA)

(2015) + 2 = 37

Mar 15, 2026 12:56 am

OOC:

Quote:

DM, I believe I have a third action

Unfortunately not, you rolled a 10 on your Initiative, which only gives you 2 actions, that I posted following your instructions on that note =) (PS: Yup, we're still in the first round).

Quote:

And a free action of move/hide. Can I move/hide now to get out of sight

That you can do. =) You either keep your Perception roll as your second action (the first move, that I used to attack, was the free one) or we ignore the Perception roll above and you move back now. No way to Hide where you are, though, as you need to move back into cover before that. The floor of the cave is uneven, broken by a few natural stalagmites rising like jagged stone teeth. Three in particular stand out as useful cover: one near U5, another at V7, and a third at W9.

What do you do?

Mar 15, 2026 3:09 am

OOC:

I’ll keep the perception roll and stay where I am. Thanks!

Mar 15, 2026 12:03 pm

OOC:

Avraham says:

I’ll keep the perception roll and stay where I am. Thanks!

Great. Igrem is up, then it's the goblins.

Mar 16, 2026 2:27 pm

Frowning out of concentration and frustration, Igrem throws fire at the nearest goblin facing him, hopeful that it will end this particular threat.

OOC:

Casting Flame Dart at G10.

Rolls

Flame Dart damage - (1d10)

(4) = 4

Mar 16, 2026 9:50 pm

The goblin (G10) lets out a short, choking cry as fire blossoms across its ragged tunic. It staggers backward two steps, smoke curling from its body—then collapses face-first into the shallow water with a hiss as the flames sputter out.

The fight, however, is far from over.

The remaining two goblins snarl in rage at the sight of their fallen companion. Weapons raised, they surge forward—one lunging toward Nelly, the other rushing Alex with a vicious snarl, eager to avenge the fallen and end this fight.

OOC:

Wow! 15 damage vs Nelly.
5 damage vs Alex, after the reduction from your Assess.

HP lost
G9: 5
G11: 1

OOC:

Players turn. What do you do?

Rolls

Goblin's Stab vs Nelly - (1d6+2, RA)

(661) + 2 = 15

Goblin's Stab vs Alex - (1d6+2-1, RA)

(4) + 1 = 5

Mar 17, 2026 12:46 am

OOC:

Alex will take a reaction on the goblins turn to defend and net the 5 down to 0. However, I presume the goblin is no longer distracted.

The goblin comes shrieking at Alex—weapon first! As the little green monster lunges towards Alex, he sinuously maneuvers his body, first one way then the other, and watches as the goblin's blade barely kisses his armor but does not find flesh [Reaction: Defend AC 5 for net 0 damage]. As the goblin passes by, Alex decides to send his regards [Action 1/2: Attack-Dual Wield SSwrd & Dgr G11].

Alex watches as his short sword swipes the goblin (G11) in its side. Still feeling graceful from his recent bodily manipulations, Alex sets his body up to be less of a target as the fracas ensues [Action 2/2: Anticipate Danger - Finesse].

Last edited March 17, 2026 12:51 am

Rolls

Short Sword (take higher of this or Dagger) - (1d6+2, RA)

(5) + 2 = 7

Secret Roll

Finesse (Anticipate Danger) DC12 - (1d20+5, RA)

(18) + 5 = 23

Mar 17, 2026 9:36 am

Still silent and gritting his teeth, Igrem decides to assess the situation, then use his magic to help Nelly better defend herself after the breathtaking blow she received. Then he throws fire at the goblin who attacked her.

OOC:

Action #1: Assess action to create an opening against G9.
Action #2: Cast Heart's Fire on Nelly.
Action #3: Cast Flame Dart at G9.

Rolls

Flame Dart damage - (1d10, RA)

(109) = 19

Mar 17, 2026 6:33 pm

Nelly raises her shield, but again the shield is perced and a deep cut is made into her biseps.

OOC:

Reaction, defend for 8 armor, reducing the damage to 7 points

She waits a second to asses the goblings movements, but does not spot a clear opening, so she just swings her mace

Last edited March 17, 2026 6:34 pm

Rolls

Insight 1 DC12 - (1d20+3, RA)

(4) + 3 = 7

Mace w/Radient Judgment - (1d6+2+2d6, RA)

(4) + (43) + 2 = 13

Mar 17, 2026 11:54 pm

For a brief instant, there are a lot of simultaneous attacks: sword, fire, and radiant strike.

Then it ends.

One goblin collapses with a choking gasp, crumpling where it stood. The other staggers back a step, dropping limply to the cavern floor.

OOC:

End of combat. What do you do?

Mar 18, 2026 5:27 am

OOC:

Is someone keeping track of the loot? I haven't been, shame on me.

Alex sheathes his weapons and kneels to check the bodies for loot. Looking up at his companions, he whispers Well, at least these creatures will bother us no longer, but I hope we have enough juice for Klarg and the big wolf, let alone the five greenies we slipped by earlier. Once I'm done, I'll try to sneak closer to where this Klarg might be to check it out, but I fear the wolf will smell me. I'm guessing if our employers are anywhere, they are near Klarg.

Mar 18, 2026 4:30 pm

Igrem helps Alex, but does not have it in his heart to comment. He nods at the proposal to scout ahead.

Mar 20, 2026 8:36 am

Alex, you quickly check the fallen goblins for anything of value.

There isn’t much. Each of them carries a crude spear, poorly maintained, and between them you find only a handful of gold coins, likely taken from previous victims.

OOC:

Take 7 gold. I presume you will leave the crude weapons, as before, right? They use inventory slots if carried.

The southern passage opens into a larger chamber.

At the southern end, sacks and wooden crates are piled high—looted provisions, likely taken from wagons and travelers. Some are torn open, their contents spilling out in careless disarray.

To the west, the ground slopes downward into a narrow, shadowy opening, descending into the wolves pen that you avoided earlier.

Near the center of the cavern (X14), a large fire pit, sending thin trails of smoke curling upward. It will surely burn someone that steps there.

And... Klarg. The bugbear is broad and thick with muscle, currently wearing a hard leather armor. He is very tall, specially when compared to the goblins.

Beside him prowls a mangy, ill-tempered wolf—W4—its ears twitching, nose low, scenting the air.

Near them stands a single female goblin (G12), smaller, sharper-eyed, watching Klarg cautiously.

As you enter, Klarg mutters loudly to himself—and to her—his voice thick and erratic.

"No! NO! Klarg says this is good cave! Strong cave! Klarg make tribe strong! Klarg conquer all!"

He thumps his chest, pacing as he talks and addressing an invisible audience.

"Klarg is mighty warlord! All goblins follow Klarg!"

The goblin beside him nods quickly.

OOC:

Alex, gimme a Stealth check DC 12. If you fail, Roll Initiative, please.

Rolls

Gold coins - (1d12, RA)

(7) = 7

Mar 20, 2026 6:55 pm

OOC:

Rolling

Rolls

Stealth DC12 - (1d20+4, RA)

(18) + 4 = 22

Mar 20, 2026 9:53 pm

Alex, they didn't notice you. What do you do?

Mar 22, 2026 4:10 am

I crawl back and whisper to Nelly and Igrem, describing the situation. If I stealth back, I can probably get one ranged attack on the bugbear before we start. But it will be a tough fight, I think, especially considering the wolf. It may be a warg for all In know.

Mar 23, 2026 12:42 pm

"You have not seen any prisoners? and they did not mention any? You are sure?" asks Igrem. After a few seconds, he adds: "You are right, it will be a difficult fight. There is no other way to go, though, I think, from here. I can try to slow Klarg down, or the wolf. Or both. Would that give us enough of an edge?"

Mar 23, 2026 1:44 pm

No, no prisoners were immediately visible, Alex responds to Igrem. But clear evidence of ransacking caravans, probably including those of our employers, Alex hypothesizes.

OOC:

Does Alex's reconnaissance allow him to make a check for attacking with advantage/surprise? Or at least help him consider any tactics which would help them?

Mar 23, 2026 3:58 pm

OOC:

Quote:

Does Alex's reconnaissance allow him to make a check for attacking with advantage/surprise? Or at least help him consider any tactics which would help them?

You can roll Initiative with Advantage and your first attack, in your first round, will get then Distracted. =)

Mar 24, 2026 3:09 am

So, my friends, are we to beard the bugbear in its den? Wrangle the wolf? Gallivant over the goblin? Say the words and I will sneak in to begin the festivities.

OOC:

Yes, but distracted only really helps with melee, and I don't think I can sneak up to Klar, given the firepit. The sling won't benefit from distracted. I need my cannon fodder Nelly to be engaged in melee with Klar for me to shank his ribs, no?

Mar 24, 2026 9:00 am

"I think we should concentrate on the bugbear first. I will try to slow down the wolf, then give you a hand in tackling Klar, and the goblin if she intervenes." proposes Igrem, waiting for Nelly's approbation.

Mar 24, 2026 4:27 pm

All right... Nelly whipsers and walks into the room.

OOC:

around y13

Are you Klarg?
Someone kidnapped my people, and some goblin told me that you were the one who covered behind the hostages. I killed them for their cowardice. Klarg is clever and a good leader. He might know where my people are kept safe from the wolves. Yes?
I will take them home, and bring word of mighty Klarg, the goblin king.

Rolls

Influence 1 - (1d20+3, RA)

(9) + 3 = 12

Mar 24, 2026 7:14 pm

OOC:

Alex will stealth to where he is in movement range of Klarg should things go sideways and ribcages need shanking. Do I need to roll?

Mar 24, 2026 9:56 pm

OOC:

Quote:

Yes, but distracted only really helps with melee, and I don't think I can sneak up to Klar, given the firepit. The sling won't benefit from distracted. I need Nelly to be engaged in melee with Klar for me to shank his ribs, no?

Yup. You would need to roll 10+ in your Initiative so you could move and attack, but yeah, that would put Alex within range of a retaliation. =)

Quote:

Alex will stealth to where he is in movement range of Klarg should things go sideways and ribcages need shanking. Do I need to roll?

Nope. Let's play to find out what happens.

"What?! You speak Klarg’s name!"

He steps forward (Y14), heavy footfalls echoing through the cavern. The female goblin moves back (V13), watching both Klarg and Nelly.

"Klarg is mighty warlord," he growls, thumping his chest again—harder this time. "Klarg builds tribe. Klarg takes cave. Klarg crush enemies!"

Ripper, the wolf, lets out a low, rumbling snarl, mirroring his master’s rising energy.

But then Klarg pauses. Tilts his head.

"...But you talk strange. You say your people are here." His lip curls. "You say goblins were cowards."

A sudden bark of laughter erupts from him—loud, sharp, unhinged, insane.

"HAH! Yes! Goblins are cowards! Weak! Klarg beats them! Makes them strong!"

The goblin (G12) flinches at that, her jaw tightening.

"Dwarf came through Klarg’s road. Little dwarf with map. Important map. Klarg knew it was important. Klarg is clever warlord. Klarg took dwarf. Took his things. Sent him away."

Then, proudly:

"Klarg follows orders. Orders from King Grol. Big king. Strong king. Klarg answers to him—and no one else."

A pause.

"You are not King Grol."

OOC:

What do you do?

Mar 25, 2026 12:14 pm

Igrem steps behind Nelly, frowning. "Where is the dwarf?" he asks to Klarg, not bothering introducing himself.

Mar 25, 2026 4:58 pm

Where Nelly’s words fed his ego, Igrem’s tone—flat, direct, almost demanding—cuts straight through it. Klarg voice drops into something colder, more dangerous.

"...No Klarg's name. No respect. No kneel. Klarg does not answer to you."

With a sudden, violent turn, he stomps south toward the pile of crates and scavenged loot. Wood creaks under his weight as he digs through it with one massive hand—tossing aside a broken shield, a sack of grain, a snapped spear shaft—

Then he finds it.

A huge, brutal morningstar—iron head studded with wicked spikes, stained dark from old use.

Klarg lifts it.

The weight of it seems almost comforting in his grip.

OOC:

What do you do?

Mar 25, 2026 6:03 pm

Alex watches from the shadows as the palaver commences. Under the circumstances, he thinks keeping himself unnoticed is probably the best action for now.

Mar 25, 2026 8:31 pm

Is this the leader you want? Nelly asks the goblin.
A fight is inevitable, but against how many is the next question.
We want our dwarf, and this fool will not negotiate. Are you ready to talk business once this meathead lies dead on the floor?

OOC:

Nelly is trying to persuade the goblin to change side, and hopefully control the wolf, so we only have Klarg to content with

Rolls

Influence 1 - (1d20+3, RA)

(2017) + 3 = 40

Long live the Queen

Mar 26, 2026 7:27 am

OOC:

RAW, the 20 is an automatic success, as long as the GM considers that you indeed should have rolled and its not irrelevant nor impossible. There is no reroll aces. And, of course, you should have rolled Influence, as you did.

But I like to see the 40 there, it seems more impressive. So please leave the reroll. And this is what happens with a forty =D

The goblin’s eyes flick to Nelly.

Then to Klarg.

Then back again as long-suppressed feelings —fear, resentment, hate—finally snaps.

She bares her sharp teeth in a vicious grin and points a clawed finger at Klarg.

"Yes! KILL this idiot!" she spits, voice rising with sudden, reckless boldness. "I will rule! I will be queen of this cave!"

Klarg turns.

Slowly.

Too slowly.

His expression is no longer boastful.

It is something far worse.

"...What… did… you say… to Klarg?"

The female goblin takes a half-step back now, but it’s too late—far too late.

"Klarg gave you cave! Gave you food! Kept you alive!" he roars, voice raising through the cavern, echoing off stone and water.

He charges her.

OOC:

Roll Initiative, no Advantage or Disadvantage. Players go first. The wolf will react, but will be the last.

Long live the Queen

Mar 26, 2026 7:51 am

OOC:

I am working under the assumption that the goblin is now our ally, so that Klarg, bless his bugbear heart, is distracted. Just what I need. I will "wait" until he gets to her and then attack.

Rolling Initiative
Result: Two actions

Alexander Simonnet Natalis de Bertier du Puy took one look at the chaotic tableau in front of him and thought just what the doctor ordered! Slipping deftly around Nelly and Igrem, Alex plans his course to slide behind Klarg as he reaches his target [Action 1: Move]. As Klarg reaches the goblin, Alex introduces his short sword to Klarg's kidneys [Action 2: Attack + Vicious Opportunist + Sneak Attack].

Last edited March 26, 2026 7:55 am

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+3, RA)

(14) + 3 = 17

Short Sword after Vicious Opportunist - Primary 6 - (1d6+2+6, RA)

(5) + 8 = 13

Sneak Attack on crit - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Mar 26, 2026 1:37 pm

A small smile chases Nellys lips as she gets ready to fight for the little guy... litterly

OOC:

Action: Move to W13

Last edited March 26, 2026 1:39 pm

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+0, RA)

(4) = 4

Mar 26, 2026 5:10 pm

Igrem frowns even further, if at all possible, and prepares to act.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+2)

(18) + 2 = 20

Mar 27, 2026 8:39 am

OOC:

Igrem, you have 3 actions. What do you do?

Mar 27, 2026 12:47 pm

Igrem ponders the situation for a split second, again, to find the best opening for his next attack and time it as well as he can. Then he elects to dart an icy ammo at the bugbear, then to increase the action capacity of Nelly, who is tackling the brute face to face.

OOC:

Action #1: Assess the situation (create and opening) before attacking Klarg
Action #2: Cast Ice Lance versus Klarg
Action #3: Cast Heart's Fire on Nelly

Rolls

Assess roll using Perception - DC12 - (1d20+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Ice Lance attack roll - (1d6, RA)

(4) = 4

Mar 28, 2026 12:07 pm

Klarg barrels forward in a frenzy—completely blind to everything except betrayal.

The goblin barely has time to raise her hands—

CRACK.

The morningstar slams into the side of the goblin's face with a sickening, meaty impact. She is thrown sideways, skidding across the rough stone, a sharp cry cut short as she tumbles into the rocks near the western slope.

Meanwhile, the mangy wolf hesitates.A low, continuous growl rumbles from its chest, deep and warning, echoing the tension in the room. Its claws scrape against the stone as it shifts its weight, ready—but not yet committed.

It is waiting.

Waiting for Klarg’s command… or for someone else's.

"Klarg is great warrior!" he bellows, spittle flying. "You are NOTHING! Not the queen! Not a warrior! Just a weak, whining goblin!"

Then Alex is there, behind Klarg’s blind rage. Steel slides between ribs. A precise, vicious thrust.

Klarg stiffens.

A guttural grunt tears from his throat as the blade bites deep into his side—right where the armor parts. Blood wells instantly.

OOC:

Klarg has medium armor, but a critical attack ignores it.

[ +- ] Medium Armor

[ +- ] Critical Hits

Next, Igrem’s magic slams into him, frost blooming across fur and leather alike.

OOC:

Klarg is Slowed

[ +- ] Slowed

Nearby, Nelly moves, ready to intervene if Klarg strikes again.

On the ground, the goblin groans—then coughs, rolling weakly onto her side. Her face is already swelling, blood running from her nose and mouth.

Shaking, she fumbles at her belt, pulling free a dirty strip of cloth. With trembling hands, she wraps it around her head, hissing in pain as she tightens it.

When she looks up again, her eyes burn with hate and defiance.

Nott, The Queen

"And now I am Nott…" she rasps through bloodied teeth. "Nott, the Queen!"

Her gaze snaps to Nelly—desperate.

"Help me!" she gasps, scrambling to her feet. "Kill brute—yes? You help Nott, Nott help you! I know things—where dwarf went—where more goblins are—"

OOC:

Players turn. You have 3 actions each. What do you do?

PS: RAW, Nelly could have interposed and I should have rolled the damage against Nott, but I didn't want to leave that part of the scene to the dice. We'll follow the rules, as usual, in this combat from now on. =)

HP lost
Klarg: 21
Nott: 6

Mar 28, 2026 2:21 pm

Nelly looks for an opening

OOC:

A1: Assesment, increase the primary die d6 to d8
A2: TrueStrike, gain advantage
A3: Attack

Last edited March 28, 2026 2:22 pm

Rolls

Assesmen Insight 1 DC12 - (1d20+3, RA)

(18) + 3 = 21

Mace Advantage1 - (2d8h1+2, RA)

(41) + 2 = 6

Mar 28, 2026 6:19 pm

OOC:

Shouldn't Nelly have 4 actions this turn thanks to Igrem's Heart's Fire spell last turn?

Igrem looks with anguish at the wolf, wondering when he will attack. Soon enough, though, he concentrates on the interaction between Klarg and his would be queen, attacking the first and trying to help the second.

OOC:

Action 1: Assess the threat of the wolf. Does he seem to be willing to attack, or would a distraction, like food, keep him out of the melee for now? (Question to GM)
Action 2: Cast Flame Dart vs Klarg.
Actuin 3: Cast Heart's Fire on Nott.

Last edited March 30, 2026 11:03 am

Rolls

Assess the wolf threat using Examination - DC12 - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Flame Dart attack - (1d10, RA)

(101) = 11

Mar 28, 2026 6:25 pm

OOC:

So Nelly notices the enemy’s distressed state. This creates an opening, which increase the next Primary Die Roll against a target by 1 this round.

Why its different dice and I will reroll for you: If she rolls a 1, it becomes a 2 (no more missing). If she rolls one below the maximum (e.g., a 5 on a D6), it becomes the maximum (6), triggering an exploding critical.

OOC:

Edit: Well... It was meant to be a total of 6, then. Same damage

OOC:

Kwll, yeah, you're right... Nelly, you have a 4th action, from Igrem’s spell =)

Rolls

Nelly: Mace Advantage1 - (2d6h1+2, RA)

(32) + 2 = 5

Mar 28, 2026 6:35 pm

OOC:

Igrem, that would actually be an Insight check, but your roll succeed nonetheless.

Igrem, you notice that the wolf is looking for food… A calm voice… A person who does not strike it first.

If handled well, the wolf would not defend Klarg—it would follow whoever feeds it, soothes it… perhaps even protect the fleeing goblin who dared to call herself queen.

OOC:

The Animal Handling would be an action and a Naturecraft roll DC10.
If you have food, roll with Advantage.

OOC:

Sharing this information with the party is a free action.

Mar 28, 2026 7:59 pm

Quote:

OOC:

Kwll, yeah, you're right... Nelly, you have a 4th action, from Igrem’s spell =)

OOC:

But she used a reaction to defendt Nott, right?

Last edited March 28, 2026 7:59 pm

Mar 29, 2026 5:07 am

OOC:

Nelly is next to Klarg in the map. Which means, Klarg is distracted. Oh joy!

Alex watches with glee as his blade sinks into Klarg’s side and then Klarg rocks with the force of Igrem’s spell. At that moment, Klarg’s remaining attention seems to focus on Nelly, as she wields her mace to great purpose. Excellent, thinks Alex as he now has the time to discern yet another gap in the Bugbear’s armor [Action 1: Attack+Vicious Opportunist+Crit]

Alex’s sword bites deep yet again. Unwilling to give up the positional advantage, but cognizant of the risk at being up close and personal with a wounded six-foot goblinoid, Alex surveys the combatants to give himself as much warning as possible under the circumstances [Action 2: Assess Insight for damage reduction (on phone, not pc, don’t have books in front
of me)].

Unfortunately, the melee is too confusing for alex to glean any information.

Therefore, Alex decides to move just a bit away [Action 3: Move Y13] and do his best to break line of sight for possible tactical advantages [Free Cheat Action: Hide].

Last edited March 29, 2026 5:16 am

Rolls

Short Sword + Vicious Opportubist - (1d6+2+6, RA)

(1) + 8 = 9

Sneak Attack - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Insight Assess DC12 - (1d20+2, RA)

(3) + 2 = 5

Stealth (Hide) - (1d20+4)

(13) + 4 = 17

Mar 30, 2026 4:30 am

OOC:

Alex is unable to Hide at Y13 but can do so at AA14 or somewhere from X17 to AA17.

Would you like to move there instead? Or let's just go Y13 and forget about the Hidden condition?

Mar 30, 2026 4:37 am

Klarg attacks Nelly while Nott flees towards the exit.

OOC:

Sorry for the short post, pretty busy today.

OOC:

Anyway, 13 damage. Next round, what do you do?

HP lost
Klarg: 50
Nott: 6

Rolls

Klarg’s Cleave vs Nelly - (2d6+4, RA)

(45) + 4 = 13

Mar 30, 2026 5:09 am

OOC:

The back is still within six squares of Klarg so I’d prefer to be hidden because then I get distracted if he doesn’t see me even if no one is next to him.

Mar 30, 2026 7:15 am

OOC:

A1: Reaction defend

Nelly strikes back, guided by magic

OOC:

A2: spell trustrike
A3: attack

Rolls

Mace Advantage1 w/Radient Judgment - (2d6h1+2+2d6, RA)

(15) + (565) + 2 = 23

Mar 30, 2026 11:18 am

Igrem shoots the bugbear again, using fire. Then he moves into the room, to approach the wolf without being too near, and still able to target Klarg. Eventually, he brings out some food and throws it to the wolf, using soothing words. "Easy, easy, look what I have got for you..."

He attempts to force a smile out of his mouth, with mixed results.

OOC:

Action 1: Cast Flame Dart vs Klarg
Action 2: Move to Y15
Action 3: Use Nature craft to tame the wolf

Rolls

Flame Dart damage - (1d10, RA)

(2) = 2

Nature craft roll - DC10 - (2d20h1, RA)

(1418) = 18

Mar 30, 2026 12:33 pm

OOC:

Alex will wait to see whether Klarg, who has already lost 50hp, survives this round and the results of Igrem and the wolf before he decides so, or even if, to strike.

Mar 31, 2026 12:18 am

Flame erupts from Igrem’s hand - hot, sudden - as it slams into Klarg’s already-wounded body, fire catching in his matted fur and along the seams of his armor. The bugbear howls, stumbling forward, smoke rising from his shoulders as rage turns to something more desperate, more primal.

"Klarg… will… NOT—!"

He never finishes. Nelly's final blow lands and kills him.The self-proclaimed warlord is no more.

Ripper, the wolf, freezes at the moment of Klarg’s fall, ears snapping forward, body rigid. The growl dies in its throat. For a long second, it simply stares at the unmoving form of its master. Then the scent of food hits its nose. Cautiously, the wolf steps forward—one paw, then another. It approaches, head low, sniffing the offering.

OOC:

End of combat. What do you do?

Mar 31, 2026 8:32 am

Nelly picks up the maze and examins it, while the wolf does its thing.

I have had my fill of this evil stupid place. If you try and solve every problem with violence, then that is what you will loose to in the end. There is always someone out there bigger, faster, stronger than you.
There is no comming back from that fate. She looks at the dead warlord.

Talk, think, discuss. There will always be one with a better idea, or a smarter wit, but you can walk away from such a defeat of the minds.

Nott, where are our people!

Mar 31, 2026 9:15 am

Igrem gently pats the head of the wolf, looking sideways at Nelly but saying nothing.

Mar 31, 2026 7:55 pm

Alex will investigate the cave to determine if there is anything around which can shed light on their missing employers AND if Klarg had a stash of any kind [Examination Check]. Someone, please check Klarg's pockets for goodies, and remember, we have a handful of goblins and a few wolves with which to contend on the way out". He will leave handling the goblin lass to Nelly and the wolf to Igrem.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Apr 3, 2026 12:28 am

Alex, there are piles and crates of useful supplies. Most of them are marked with the image of a blue lion. Indeed, there are so many supplies that you will need a wagon to bring them with you. They are likely worth something. Probably 50 GP, even if "sold" to their rightful owners.

There is also an unlocked chest with copper and silver coins equivalent to 17 gold, two healing potions and a jade statue of a frog.

Nott, The Queen

Nott, the Queen, slips back into view—shoulders hunched, steps light and erratic, as if she might bolt at any second.The makeshift bandage is wrapped crookedly around her face, already stained through, one eye squinting while the other darts rapidly between the party, the corpse of Klarg… and the wolf.

She freezes when she sees Klarg lying dead.

Then—slowly—a grin spreads beneath the cloth.

Wide.

Crooked.

Vindicated.

"Yes… yes! Good!" she hisses, a nervous, breathy laugh escaping her. "Stupid brute. Thought he was… pff—"

She raises the middle finger, then immediately glances at the body again, as if expecting it to rise.

It doesn’t.

That seems to reassure her.

She straightens—well, as much as she can—trying to gather what remains of her dignity. One hand presses against her bandage as she speaks, voice half-mutter, half-declaration.

"Nott is queen."

Her gaze snaps to Nelly, quick and intense.

"You want your people, yes-yes. Nott knows." She taps her temple rapidly. "Dwarf—important one—taken away. Sent to Cragmaw. To King Grol." Her lip curls slightly at the name. "Far from here."

She gestures back toward the west.

"But not all gone." A quick, eager nod. "Human still here. In barracks—west side. Yeemik has him. Yeemik and his crew." Her expression tightens briefly—resentment, maybe fear. "They think they’re clever. With Klarg gone…"

She trails off, then leans in slightly, lowering her voice.

"Nott can help." A twitchy smile. "Show you path. Help you deal with Yeemik. You get human, yes? Maybe more. Be my Champion, yes?"

OOC:

What do you do?

Apr 3, 2026 9:48 am

Igrem is still not sure he trusts goblins, but given the situation he figures there is little alternative to what Nott offer if they want to avoid direct confrontation. His interest is triggered by the mention of a king, though. "King Grol, you say? Whose King is he, exactly? Is his kingdom nearby?" he asks, curious.

He is still petting the wolf while talking, wondering if the wolf will be tame enough to follow him.

Nott, The Brave

Apr 5, 2026 2:48 pm

"King Grol. He is king of Cragmaw tribe. Big tribe. Many goblins. Bugbears and hobgoblins too." She nods quickly. "Stronger than this place. Much stronger. Grol lives in castle. Real castle. Stone walls, towers… not hole like this."

A hint of envy creeps into her voice.

"Cragmaw Castle is in Neverwinter Wood. Not too far. Maybe twenty miles northeast."

She points off into the distance, though the gesture is imprecise.

"There is trail. Hidden trail. Goblins use it. Nott knows it."

A quick, sharp grin.

"Nott can show."

OOC:

What do you do?

Nott, The Brave

Apr 5, 2026 7:54 pm

OOC:

Is anyone else hurt?
Nelly is at 50% hp so she is going to cast a bit of healing magic

[ +- ] 1: HEAL

Rolls

heal @Nelly - (1d6+2, RA)

(61) + 2 = 9

Nott, The Wise

Apr 5, 2026 11:27 pm

"Oh ...You can fix yourself," Nott murmurs, half in awe, half in suspicion. "No herbs… no stitching… just..." She makes a vague, fluttering gesture with her fingers, mimicking the fading light.

Nott takes a cautious step closer, circling slightly, studying Nelly like a strange and possibly dangerous animal.

"I should learn that trick," she mutters under her breath, then flashes a quick, sharp grin. "Very useful. Very… powerful."

OOC:

What do you do?

Nott, The Wise

Apr 5, 2026 11:39 pm

OOC:

Note to self to mark down treasure unless someone else is keeping track

"My thought would be to find this Yeemik fellow and take him to Phandalver, as we were tasked to go. We should sketch the designs on the goods as well. Perhaps the coster who funded that expedition will pay a finders fee for its location. I would not recommend taking on a castle of bugbears with just the three of us; we were lucky to take down one".

Nott, The Brave

Apr 6, 2026 9:02 am

"Yeemik is a goblin. Used to be second in command. Annoying big and large fellow. You can talk to him, if you want. He is at the barracks, with a human captive. Let's go there?"

OOC:

What do you do?

Nott, The Brave

Apr 6, 2026 9:59 am

lets go
Nelly is carrying Krarg's mace, a quiet symbol of the warlord's defeat.

OOC:

Was Klarg mace a worthy upgrade compared to the 1d6+str mase that Nelly is currently using?

Apr 6, 2026 11:29 am

OOC:

Quote:

Was Klarg mace a worthy upgrade compared to the 1d6+str mase that Nelly is currently using?

Its a 2 handed weapon, so if you wanna use it, you will have to sell or drop your shield (ie. reduce your armor by 2). But maybe it's worth it...

Klarg’s huge morningstar
2d6+STR damage, Bludgeoning, 2-handed, Requires 2 STR to use, worth 80 gp

Apr 6, 2026 6:12 pm

Igrem still has trusting issues, but could be convinced to trust Nott. "Maybe we could meet this Yeemik? What do you think?" he asks his companions, not quite decided himself.

Apr 9, 2026 10:05 pm

Igrem says:

Maybe we could meet this Yeemik? What do you think?

Nelly says:

lets go

Quote:

Nelly is carrying Krarg's mace, a quiet symbol of the warlord's defeat.

Guided by Nott’s quick steps, the party moves west through the twisting caves. She pauses often—listening, sniffing, glancing back to make sure you follow her path, not your own—before finally raising a hand for silence.

"Careful," she whispers. "Yeemik’s place."

Ahead, the tunnel widens abruptly into a larger chamber. Again, the smell hits first—thick cooking smoke, rancid hides, damp fur, and too many goblins crammed into too little space.

The cave opens in two levels. A ten-foot-high rocky rise splits the room, with the lower northern section spreading out before you. To the south, a steep natural staircase climbs to an up.

Five goblins gathered around a small, smoky fire near the far wall. A dented pot hangs above it, something foul bubbling within. Bedrolls, bones, and piles of half-rotten hides are scattered everywhere, marking this as their den.

On the upper ledge to the south stands another figure.

Bigger.

Fatter.

A goblin with a heavy gut and a mean, self-satisfied posture—Yeemik, no doubt.

And beside him—

Two humans.

Bound. Bruised. But alive.

Apr 10, 2026 2:12 am

OOC:

Is Alex visible or is there an opportunity for him to sneak in and free the humans while the other two parley. Just in case, will role an examination check and a stealth check. He does get hide for free once a round.

Rolls

Examination - (1d20+2, RA)

(12) + 2 = 14

Stealth - (1d20+4, RA)

(10) + 4 = 14

Apr 10, 2026 9:30 am

OOC:

Quote:

Is Alex visible or is there an opportunity for him to sneak in and free the humans while the other two parley.

You can certainly try =) Nelly, Igrem, what do you do in the meantime?

Redhawk, you have been captured almost a week ago, overwhelmed by a dozen goblins.

Please introduce your character. What happened? Who are you? What's your escape plan? And if you escape, what's your next goal?

The other human was captured yesterday. He was with a friend, a dwarf, but they took the dwarf to King Grol and left only the human here.

Apr 10, 2026 3:46 pm

Redhawk eyes the big goblin holding him. He has been in stinking cave for what has to be at least a week. It is hard to tell time trapped down under the earth. He doesn't understand how dwarves do it. He misses the outdoors especially the woods. He thinks of his small village of Raven Tree that lies in the edge of the Neverwinter wood across from the Starmetal hills. He was part of a hunting party and got distracted by what looked like an albino boar. He had never heard of such a thing and was so intent on tracking it he got separated from his group and ambushed by these damned goblins. He has been working on his bindings for the past couple of days with a small piece of bone he found and it is slow going. Redhawk is a decent sized human of around 5'10" 175 lbs.

Apr 10, 2026 5:02 pm

OOC:

Does Alex recognize the other captive as one of his two employers—specifically Sildar Hallwinter, given the captive is human?

Alex does his best to blend into the shadows behind his party and Nott [Free Action: Hide]. "Once Yeemik's attention is on you folk, I will try and sneak in and free the captives," he whispers to Nelly and Igrem.

Last edited April 10, 2026 5:15 pm

Apr 10, 2026 11:48 pm

OOC:

Quote:

Does Alex recognize the other captive as one of his two employers—specifically Sildar Hallwinter, given the captive is human?

Yup. You solved that puzzle. Those are Sildar and Redhawk. ;)

Let's wait for Igrem and/or Nelly.

Apr 12, 2026 4:13 pm

OOC:

Actually, let's retcon that so it's 3 people. ;) Gremlin's character was traveling with Redhawk. How did you two meet and why were you traveling together?

Igrem, what do you do?

Apr 12, 2026 5:03 pm

Igrem does not feel at ease with the situation. He tries as much as he can to keep his cool and not show his natural defiance against goblins by keeping his hands in the opposite's arm sleeves and his mouth shut. He looks at Nott expectantly, waiting for what she is going to say.

Nott, The Brave

Apr 13, 2026 12:26 am

Nott steps forward into the open just enough to be seen, lifting her chin with forced authority.

"Yeemik!" she calls, voice echoing through the chamber.

The goblins below jolt, hands going to weapons. The fat goblin on the ledge—Yeemik—leans forward, squinting down.

"Nott?" he grunts, suspicion immediate. "You look… worse."

Nott bares her teeth in something between a grin and a snarl.

"Klarg did that," she snaps. "Klarg is dead now."

Silence. The goblins by the fire glance at each other. Yeemik’s eyes narrow.

"Dead?" he repeats slowly. "Klarg… dead?"

Nott nods quickly.

"Yes. Dead. Gone. Finished. Kaput." She jabs a thumb back toward Klarg’s room. "Big talk. Big stupid. Now just meat on cave floor. So... No Klarg. No warlord. New ruler now."

A beat.

"Queen."

OOC:

What do you do?

Nott, The Brave

Apr 13, 2026 2:12 am

OOC:

Alex presumes that he made it stealthily, given his position. He may be in for a rude awakening. Also, I will pretend the existence of an H3 for Gremlin Gremlin is human, right?

Alex slinks along the the outside wall as quietly as he can. Creeping up behind the three trussed humans, he puts his finger to his lips in the universal shushing symbol and whispers while my friends engage Yeemik, I will try and free you. He will starts with Sildar, given that Sildar is supposed to pay him, and will then proceed to the two strange humans.

OOC:

DM: allow as many actions as is legal. Each action is an attempt to free a prisoner. I'm guessing I need to roll stealth and finesse for each. I'll do one at a time; please overwrite anything if you feel it necessary.

[ +- ] Cheat

Last edited April 13, 2026 2:17 am

Rolls

Finesse - Free Sildar - (1d20+5)

(15) + 5 = 20

Stealth - Free Sildar quietly - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Secret Roll

Stealth - Free first unknown human quietly CHEAT SKILL - (11)

() + 11 = 11

Secret Roll

Apr 13, 2026 1:17 pm

Seeing as Alex is progressing stealthily to free the prisoners, Igrem figures it would be a good idea to concentrate the attention away from them. He steps closer to Nott, revealing himself to Yeemik, and looks at him in the eyes. He does not begin any hostile move, though, and does not speak yet.

Apr 13, 2026 4:07 pm

Gremlin Inactive for 1 months

Hello there
Nelly bounced the Klarg two-handed mace off her shoulder and on the floor with a loud thunk
We are here to collect our people. Klarg thought he could say "no". He was wrong and now I have collected his mace.
Please give us our people, so we can leave this place - or should I collect your things aswell?

[ +- ] Paragon of Virtue.

Rolls

Influence 1 - (2d20h1+3, RA)

(176) + 3 = 20

Boggart Frimble

Apr 13, 2026 10:39 pm

Avraham says:

OOC:

Alex presumes that he made it stealthily, given his position. He may be in for a rude awakening. Also, I will pretend the existence of an H3 for Gremlin Gremlin is human, right?

OOC:

Gnome, actually!

Bound up next to Redhawk and another human is a gnome with flaxen hair wearing a shirt of rusty chainmail. Hanging around his neck is an icon of a unicorn with blue eyes and a golden horn, a symbol which is also emblazoned on a wooden buckler not far away. He was captured along with his long-suffering friend Redhawk on a hunting trip that he insisted he tag along on. Though he isn't struggling against his bonds, a stream of muffled banter can be heard beneath an extra layer of cloth tied over his mouth, seemingly to prevent the constant babble of noise from annoying his captors too much. A gleam of excitement flashes across his eyes as a new friend (Alexander) sneaks over for a daring rescue.

Last edited April 13, 2026 10:52 pm

Apr 13, 2026 11:18 pm

As Klarg’s mace thunks against the stone, Yeemik raises both hands, palms outward in a gesture of peace.

"Wait, wait—no need for more smashing, yes?" he says, voice higher-pitched than expected, almost oily.

He steps forward slightly on the ledge, revealing himself more clearly in the dim firelight—round belly straining against his crude armor, short limbs, and an oddly composed demeanor that clashes with the chaos of the cave.

Then, with surprising delicacy, he reaches into a small pouch and pulls out a pair of tiny, black-bordered glasses. He perches them on his nose, squinting through them at the party below.

"Ah… yes. Much better," he mutters, seeing you in the dim light.

His gaze sharpens as he takes in Nelly, Igrem—

—and then turns quickly.

His brows rise.

"Eh?"

Behind him, unnoticed by most, Alex has already done his work. Bonds loosened. Gags removed. The captives—Sildar, Redhawk, and Boggart—are no longer helpless.

Yeemik blinks.

"Well! That is…Very... Unexpected. " he says, impressed.

"You came for humans and small noisy one, right?." He gestures vaguely. "Take them. Yeemik does not care. They are trouble anyway."

A few of the goblins by the fire grumble, but none move or try to stop you. Yeemik then shifts his attention to Nott.

"And you… Klarg is dead and you say you are queen now."

Nott stiffens, chin lifting again, though her fingers twitch at her sides.

"Yes," she says quickly. "Queen."

Yeemik adjusts his glasses.

"Mm. Maybe."

OOC:

What do you do?

Apr 14, 2026 12:08 am

Redhawk will look at Yeemik "My friends an I need our weapons back. I must be able to hunt to live. I will un string my bow until we leave."

Apr 14, 2026 11:51 am

Gremlin Inactive for 1 months

Igrem looks nervously at the goblins, wondering what will happen to Nott when the humans — and the gnome — are gone. "We surely don't want to overstay our welcome. The sooner our companions here have recovered their belongings, the sooner we will be on our way." concurs the magician with Redhawk.

Boggart Frimble

Apr 14, 2026 7:10 pm

Boggart bounces onto his feet as soon as he's freed, stretching his limbs. "Finally free of those frustrating fetters!" He grabs Alexander's hands and shakes them vigorously. "Can't thank you enough, no, not enough! From this day forth, Boggart Frimble is fast friends with you fearsome fellows!"

The gnome then turns to address the goblins: "Well now, it's been fun, but it looks like we've been rescued. I'll just retrieve our effects..." He says, and bounds over to where they've deposited their weapons.

Last edited April 14, 2026 8:26 pm

Apr 14, 2026 11:22 pm

"Yes, yes… take your things," Yeemik says, waving a pudgy hand dismissively. "Weapons, bows, shiny bits—Yeemik does not care. Humans go, goblins stay. That is good balance, yes?" His eyes flick briefly to the other goblins, already losing interest in the prisoners entirely.

Then Yeemik turns his full attention to Nott. A slow, odd smile spreads across his face—wide, crooked, and just a little too pleased with itself.

"You say you are queen," he says, voice smooth. "Maybe true. Maybe not."

He spreads his arms.

"Two choices."

He raises one stubby finger.

"First option—fight. Champion against champion. Old way. Blood, bones, death. The winner rules."

A few goblins perk up at that, gripping their weapons eagerly.

Then Yeemik raises a second finger.

"Or…" he says, smile widening into something deeply unsettling, "no fight. No more dead goblins."

He leans forward.

"We do a Big Celebration. Tribe grows strong together. Forget humans, forget gnome, forget fighting, drop our weapons, drop our clothes… make more goblins, yes?"

The goblins below begin chittering, some laughing, some already tossing aside weapons, the mood shifting from tension to something chaotic and unpredictable.

Meanwhile, Sildar — now free — exchanges confused and increasingly uncomfortable glances with you while Yeemik talks and proposes... whatever it is... to Nott.

OOC:

What do you do?

Rolls

Secret Roll

Apr 14, 2026 11:27 pm

As his knife slides through the third captive's bonds, Alex whispers a thankful prayer to his patron goddess. My most heartfelt gratitude, my Lady of the Glittering Dice. May our walking the Lady's Way bring a smile to your face.

Sheathing his knife, Alex is just in time to flash Yeemik his most insouciant grin in response to Yeemik's surprise, shrugging his shoulders as if to say "Well, you just left them there for me to free".

As the tableau unfolds, Alex cannot help but grin at Boggart's ebullient manner. Returning the hearty handshake in the manner it was given, he replies "full introductions will need to wait for a safer environ. Phandalver, perhaps? But in the interests of simple communication, I hight Alexander Simonnet Natalis de Bertier du Puy, of the du Puys of Amphail and environs. But my friends call me Alex. What my enemies call me is not fit for polite company," he ends with a smile.

Nodding to the other stranger, who must be the Redhawk whom Boggart referenced, Alex turned to Sildar and asked concernedly, "What happened to you and Gundar?

OOC:

For our two new friends, welcome! If it helps, I basically follow our DM's color conventions regarding text with a few differences. For emphasis, I'll either use underline or combined bold (un)italic. I use cabin font to indicate I am whispering. I use aqua on purple small eagle font to indicate prayers—verbal or thought is usually seen from context. And I use [bracketed fuchsia elite] to represent the Nimble actions I am taking. There will be a quiz once we reach Phandalver 😈

EDIT for DM simultaneous post
As he whispers to Sildar, Alex takes in what Yeemik just said. Clearing his throat uncomfortably, he addressed the room in general, "Maybe we should leave before the…um…festivities?

Last edited April 15, 2026 1:49 am

Apr 15, 2026 7:59 am

Yes its time that we got out of here and into the sunlight again.

Nelly assists the former prisoners.

OOC:

Nelly could excorte the last prisoner home, and in this way write herself out of the story

Apr 15, 2026 9:47 am

Concerned, Igrem whispers to Nott's ear: "Maybe it would be a good idea to leave with us. That will avoid the unpleasantness of what's coming for you here..." He waits for her answer while staring at Yeemik with a closed expression.

Apr 15, 2026 10:04 am

Redhawk looks at his new companions"Redhawk is the name and hunting is the game. I say we get out of here before the party starts." He recovers his gear and is ready to go.

Apr 15, 2026 4:36 pm

Whispering sotto voce to Igrem, Alex says Maybe its best not to make any assumptions about Nott's predilections for wild goblin parties, eh? She may enjoy having a harem to serve her bidding.

Nott, The Adventurer

Apr 15, 2026 8:59 pm

Nott leans in close when Igrem whispers.

"Unpleasant?" she murmurs back, almost amused. "No… no, not unpleasant. Opposite." A soft, breathy chuckle escapes her.

"But…" she hesitates, the word slipping out quieter. Her gaze drifts.

"Nott thought she wanted to be queen," she mutters, more to herself than to Igrem. "Queen means power. No more fear. Others listen."

A pause.

"...But queen also stays. Don't go on adventures. Maybe Nott not sure she wants that."

OOC:

What do you do?

PS: Sildar will explain what happened as you leave the cave.

Nott, The Adventurer

Apr 15, 2026 9:07 pm

OOC:

DM, are these the same goblins we saw on the way in of which we snuck by, or are these different goblins?

"All's well that ends well, no? Alex says. Turning to Nott, he bows and says "we should let your most royal majesty work out the particulars of her reign and her court as is her will." He turns towards the grotto's opening, and addressing the rest of the now much larger party says "We must get to Phandalver, where we can regroup and and find out what in Beshaba's Bright Sister's name is going on! He looks plaintively at Sildar as he says this.

Apr 16, 2026 9:21 am

Igrem takes a hard look at Nott, then a hard look at the goblins. Hearing Alexander's tirade, he bows simply and swiftly to the queen and says: "Very well. Whether you stay or you come with us, you have to decide now." He doesn't wait any longer, though, and is on his way with his companions towards the caverns exit.

Nott, The Naked

Apr 16, 2026 10:46 am

OOC:

Quote:

DM, are these the same goblins we saw on the way in of which we snuck by, or are these different goblins?

Same goblins, those near the fire that you avoided.

Igrem says:

"Very well. Whether you stay or you come with us, you have to decide now."

Nott watches them turn one by one. Freedom walking away.

Her chin lifts, crooked bandage and all, and she draws in a sharp breath as if putting something heavy into place inside herself.

"Nott stays."

She glances back toward the cavern—the noise, the chaos, the opportunity. Then to Yeemik. Then back to the party.

"Queen doesn’t run," she adds, a little more strength in her voice now. "Queen rules."

She takes her clothes off and join the festivities.

OOC:

Continues in my next post for Sildar

Nott, The Naked

Sildar

Apr 16, 2026 8:49 pm

Gremlin Inactive for 1 months

You leave. The cool air outside the cave feels like a different world. Sunlight filters through the trees, birdsong replacing the sounds of the goblin madness. For a while, no one speaks.

Sildar Hallwinter walks with a measured pace, favoring one side slightly but holding himself. Now that he is free, he walks like a soldier again—straight-backed, composed, his weathered face thoughtful beneath streaks of grime and bruising. His recovered armor is battered, but the emblem of Waterdeep’s griffon cavalry still shows faintly, a mark of discipline and pride. After a time, he exhales slowly.

"You have my thanks," he says, voice grave but sincere. "All of you. I would not have lasted much longer in that place."

He glances at each of you in turn then introduces himself to Boggart and Redhawk.

"I am Sildar Hallwinter, of Waterdeep. A soldier… and an agent of the Lords’ Alliance. We are charged with maintaining order in these lands—ensuring that civilization, fragile as it is, does not collapse under the weight of threats like the one we just left behind. As you know, I came south from Neverwinter with Gundren Rockseeker. He and his brothers—Tharden and Nundro—have found something long thought lost."

He looks ahead, as if seeing it in his mind.

"Wave Echo Cave."

He lets the name hang for a moment.

"Five centuries ago, dwarves and gnomes forged an alliance—the Phandelver’s Pact, by which they would share this rich mine. In addition to its mineral wealth, the mine contained great magical power. Human spellcasters allied themselves with the dwarves and gnomes to channel and bind that energy into a great forge (called the Forge of Spells), where magic items could be crafted. Times were good, and the nearby human town of Phandalin (pronounced fan-duh-lin) prospered as well."

His tone darkens.

"But then disaster struck when orcs swept through the North and laid waste to all in their path. A powerful force of orcs reinforced by evil mercenary wizards attacked Wave Echo Cave to seize its riches and magic treasures. Human wizards fought alongside their dwarf and gnome allies to defend the Forge of Spells, and the ensuing spell battle destroyed much of the cavern. Few survived the cave-ins and tremors, and the location of Wave Echo Cave was lost."

He looks back to the group.

"Until now. Gundren found it again—or so he believed. He carried a map to it."

A grim pause.

"And now that map is in enemy hands."

Sildar’s jaw tightens.

"The goblins spoke of a figure behind all this. One they called the Black Spider. It was by this creature’s order that Gundren was taken. I do not know who—or what—it is. But it has agents. And intent. I am afraid Klarg was merely a pawn. He sent Gundren—and the map—to Cragmaw Castle under orders. If we are to find Gundren… that is where we must go."

Then, after a brief pause, his expression softens slightly.

"But first—Phandalin. I have business there as well. A contact—an old colleague. A wizard named Iarno Albrek. He was sent ahead to bring order to the town. It has been two months… and no word has come back."

Concern flickers in his eyes.

"I intend to go there," he continues. "Find Iarno. Learn what has gone wrong. And from that foothold and base of operations, track Gundren to Cragmaw Castle and recover what was taken. You have already proven yourselves capable—and, more importantly, willing to act when others would turn away."

A faint, earnest smile appears.

"I would have your company in this. What do you think?"

OOC:

What do you do?

Sildar

Boggart Frimble

Apr 16, 2026 10:19 pm

"Black Spider, you say? Hmm..." Boggart wracks his brain to see if he's ever heard of this person. "Sounds like a no-good do-er if I've ever heard of one. Add in a dash of lost treasure and some magic doodads, and it smells like adventure! My grandpappy (that's grandpappy Sibilus O'malley Frimble, on my father's side) always told me to follow my nose, and it's not lead me astray so far. Save for that little business of being captured by goblins. What fun!" Boggart laughs and skips up to Sildar, spitting in his hand and grasping the man's before he has a chance to object, shaking vigorously.

"I'm in! When do we leave?"

Rolls

Lore re: Black Spider - (1d20+0, RA)

(8) = 8

Apr 16, 2026 11:59 pm

Redhawk listens "Well met sir, I am Redhawk of Raventree. I will represent my village on this quest. May they make and sing songs of our exploits. I am in as well."

Apr 17, 2026 7:35 am

"Igrem the Hooded, at your service. I must say this trip into goblin caverns was pretty exciting, overall. More than I expected! I will follow you, if my friend Alex will go along as well." He has a brief look at his companion, before adding: "But Klarg mentioned a goblin king of some kind in the forest. How is he involved in all this?"

Apr 17, 2026 4:47 pm

OOC:

I'm going to assume that introduction of the original party and Sildar happened way back when the party was hired.

Well, well, well. Perhaps here is an opportunity for me to advance my life goals, but I should not be too hasty in my acceptance, thinks Alex. "Master Sildar, those are ominous tidings indeed. First, we must retrace our steps to the wagon which you and Master Gundren hired us to escort safely to Phandalver." Here, Alex ever so slightly—perhaps unnoticeably—emphasized the word "hired". He continued "once we arrive safely and have settled our particulars, I would certainly desire more information about these events and how we may serve both each other, the greater good, and Tyche's Fair-Tressed Daughter as well."

Apr 18, 2026 11:27 am