The party leaves the Low Lantern after dispatching Amrik and Vaaz. As they leave, Captain Laraelra warns them that Amrik's death will incur the wrath of Duke Thalamara Vanthampur. She suggests that they flee Baldur's Gate at once—before they end up as fish food at the bottom of the harbor.

After the party completes a short rest, they prepare to head with Mortlock & the pirate to the upper city, where the Vanthampur Villa is located.

during the rest, Mortlock kept charge over the pirate to ensure he didn't wander off unexpectedly. Once the party is ready to head off, Mortlock kicks the sleepy pirate, who spent the whole time napping. He yaws and stnads up.

"Finally. Can we get on with this? please", says the pirate as he gears up.

By the time you head toward the villa, a storm has rolled into Baldur's gate and the rain and wind pick up significantly.

Getting past the upper city guards that guard the upper city is easy, as Flaming fist you merely have to show your badges, but with Mortlock present, the guards allow you to pass without question.

Vanthampur Villa is a stately stone edifice with a detached stable house. Both buildings have sloped rooftops covered with red clay tiles. A 12-foot-high stone wall encloses the villa. Mortlock tells you that Lanterns hanging along the wall's interior are lit at dusk and extinguished at dawn to illuminate the yard and villa at night. The wall features three wooden gates—the main entrance and a coach gate to the south, and a postern gate to the north.

the party approaches the villa from the south.

"This is the place. The first hurdle will be getting past the outer wall into the courtyard. There will be no less than 9 guards inside the courtyard. Thurstwell will have told his guards to keep an eye out for me. If they spot me, our surprise will be lost. What do you all want to do?"

From here, you are hidden behind nearby buildings looking at the villa from the south. From this position, there are two large wooden gates that open into the courtyard. You cannot see anything behind the 12 foot high stone walls that surround the villa.

Thunder, Lighting, rain and wind are getting more intense

There are three options for entering the villa by foot.

Main enterance (south side of villa)
Coach gate (south side of villa)
Postern Gate (north side of villa)

Decide if you want to enter the villa through a gate, or if you want do proceed a different way.

15 minutes pass

Time: 12:20 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Scouting the Villa

As the near the villa, Bruno pulls the group aside into a nearby alleyway out of site of the main thoroughfare.

“Right. I, er… took the liberty of buying new clothes for everyone to try and make it harder to recognize us. Apologies in advance if it’s not your style or the fit is off. I, uh, had to guess at a couple of the sizes.”

Bruno looks to Hippee and Bartok. “Fortunately they had a kids section so they shouldn’t be too big.”

"I'm an extra large, sir!" snaps Hippee.

Bruno pauses and processes the Gnome, then without answering, Looking at Mortlock, Bruno frowns slightly. “I’m afraid they didn’t have anything in your size. *grumbling* Not that I think it would have made a difference anyway with a face like that…”

Bruno proceeds to hand out new sets of commoner clothes to everyone. They’re decent quality, indescript, and in various darker colors to make it easier to blend into the shadows. He also hands out scraps of dark wool to cover their faces.

He looks up to Dartan as he hands over the scarf. “Up to you if you want to wear it. That’s between you and your god. I’d recommend it though.”

Looking to the rest of the party, Bruno continues. “I’d wait to put on the scarf until we’re ready to make our approach to the villa. No sense drawing extra attention to ourselves. Before we decide how to head in, I think we need more info.”

Bruno summons Walter to his shoulder and scratches the rat behind the ear. “Walter and I can take a look around the perimeter to see where guards might be posted. I can have him just walk along the top of the wall and peek over to see what’s what. I would need someone to help guide me around the outside of the place while looking through Walters eyes though. Any other thoughts or better ideas?”

The rogue listens to the plan and scratches his chin,

"The wizard has a point, we'll be recognized for certain. Nobody's looking at shadows with these two (points to Mortlock and the Paladin) rumbling through. We'll go through the shadows and meet up in the villa."

Jules covers his head with his cloak, and darts off into the rain toward the Villa to scout the area. The party dons the new clothes, but once putting the armor back on, the clothes offer very little in the way of disguise. Still, fresh clean clothes are welcome. Although it's short lived because the rain and wind are so strong, everyone is soaking wet within minutes.

"Aye lad, I've got yer back." (places a hand on Bruno's shoulder to guide him)

Bruno's eyes flash as he starts seeing through Walter's eyes.

**Jules does not get this information**

Walter enters the villa under the large wood gates (plenty of room for a rat to crawl under)

On the other side of the wall, walter sees a courtyard. Bruno and Bartok walk around the villa in the street, doing their best not to attract attention. (as much as a blind wizard and dwarf can do)

Walter sees a row of five trees on the west side of the courtyard, a row of three trees on the north wall, and two large trees in the corners of the east wall.

There are nine guards in three groups of three that are walking counter clockwise around the courtyard. There isn't much gap, as one set of guards rounds a corner of the building a few seconds after a group walks past.

Mortlock tells you that usually the guards work six hour shifts and then there is a changing of the guards, at which time, they all usually meet at the north gate of the villa. He isn't sure when the exchange will happen but that might be a moment where the defenses are most vulnerable.

The actual villa is about 25-35 feet from the outer wall on all sides. There are several windows around the building that could be entered if opened or broken, and there is a set of double doors on the south side of the villa, and a single door on the north side of the villa on a porch.

Mortlock tells you the north door is the main enterance, but both doors are guarded on the inside, so entering a door would mean at least encountering a single guard.

There is also a stables on the north side of the courtyard, and Walter sees 3 horses currently tied up.

After 10-15 minutes of scouting the villa, walter returns to bruno and bruno tells the party what he saw.

** Jules gets this information **

Meanwhile.... Jules scouts the building as well, remaining hidden - he peeks over the fence, and sees three groups of guards (nine total guards) circling the courtyard walking counter clockwise. He hears the guards laughing and talking casually as they make their rounds. The rogue hears them mention something about keeping an extra watchful eye, as the boss is looking for some Wizard, a Dwarf, and a couple others including a dragonborn and the brother Mortlock. but nothing else of real interest.

Please let me know what Jules will do next

Each party memeber, please decide what you will do next with the info you just received.

30 minutes pass

Time: 12:50 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Getting Inside the Courtyard

After hearing Walter's report, Dartan furrows his brow deep in thought.

"Well friends, we must get in somehow, and I think i know the way."

Dartan drops his pack and brings out the breastplate with the mark of the cult on it and puts it on before donning his pack.

"They're looking for us no doubt and, well, Mortlock and I stand out. They WON'T expect me to be wearing their sigil. Mortlock, put on these manacles. They will not be locked. I will sheath my sword and carry your club. As soon as we can I'll drop it and you can "break free of your chains."

"Ok, If things go wrong, be ready for a fight" Mortlock loosly dons the shackles.

"While you are distracting the guards, we will hide in or around the trees, and wait for an opening, then hopefully meet Jules at the Villa"

Mortlock, Dartan and the Pirate prepare to enter the villa from the south, to distract the guards while Jules heads to the north gate, to sneak in when he finds an opening. Bartok, Bruno and Hippee move to the other south gate, to sneak past the guards during the distraction.

The Pirate and Dartan lead Mortlock in his shackles through the gate. they find the south gate unlocked. As they open the gate, one set of guards sees them come through and immediately approach with haste.

"Hold! Who goes there?", says one guard as they all draw their blades.

"It's me, Desmund. I am one of Amrik's body guards. We killed that group of troublemakers that attacked the cult. We caught Mortlock aiding them at the Low Lantern, and captured him after killing off his friends. Amrik asked me to personally deliver him to Thurstwell." (Persuasion: 6)

The guard looks at the pirate suspiciously, obviously not convinced of the story.

"let me go, you traitors. My mother will have all of your heads when she hears about this treason!" (Performance: 10) Mortlock struggles against the manacles as if angry.

(to mortlock), "Silence, you are the real traitor. You were helping the intruders. I wonder how your mother will react when she finds out that you have been trying to overthrow her" (Performance: 18)

As the party is talking to the guards, three more guards approach (as they are making their rounds)

The guards, look suspiciously at the group and talk to each other.

"We have strict orders to not allow anyone to enter for any reason. Do you have any proof that Amrik gave these orders?"

Meanwhile, Bartok, Bruno and Hippee attempt to sneak into the courtyard.

Hippee watches the guards as they talk to Dartan, Desmund and Mortlock, and determines the best route and trees to hide in, Bartok spots the other guards, and determines the best time to make their move, and Bruno provides a route with the best cover. They all three make it into the courtyard undetected and hide behind the villa, near the south tree.

Jules enters the north gate, avoiding the guards, and meets up with Bruno, Bartok and Hippee between the two large trees.

How does Group 1 answer the guards?

What does group 2 do next?

10 minutes pass

Time: 1:00 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

The Storm within a storm

Dartan snaps back at the guard,

"Proof? You think I WANT to be seen leading a Vanthampur through the city in shackles for fun? LOOK AT MY ARMOR MAN! DO YOU THINK I WANT TO OPENLY WEAR THIS ON THE STREET? But no, we do not have proof. A well laid trap killed Amrik after we were told to come here. GODS DAMN IT! They killed Vaaz as well. Time is of the essence. Once word gets out, and it will, its only a matter of time before someone comes after Thurstwell. We need to make sure this...fratricidial maniac is locked in the deepest pit Thurstwell has. Now how much more time do you want to waste?"

"Listen, why don't you just wait here, and we will go tell Thurstwell that you have brought Mortlock. We can wait "

The guard motions to three of the other guards to go into the villa, those three break off and head to the south side of the villa to the doors. As they walk toward the east, the last group of three guards, rounds the corner of the house and can be seen walking toward Dartan, Mortlock and Desmund The rain is heavy and there is thunder and lighting and wind, getting worse.

"Uhh, wait, how about we all just go see Thurstwell together? Instead of just letting us all stand out here in the rain?"

"I'm afraid you're just gonna have to get wet. We have strict orders, No one allowed in."

The guards keep walking toward the Villa while three stand guard over Dartan, Mortlock and Desmund.

Group 1 - how do you respond? (Dartan)

Meanwhile --- on the side of the villa, Bartok, Bruno, Jules and Hippee gather together.

The rogue chuckles to himself as the other party members show up and whispers quietly,

“nobody has seen a paladin more wily than Sir Rug.” He looks at each of his comrades in the eye, “be prepared to help Bull’s Bane and the others. We’ll create a distraction.”

With a wink and a grin the rogue starts off into the shadows, but before he can get far, the group hears a soft whistle come from the top of the wall on the east, A cloaked figure jumps down off the wall, landing with a loud "CLANK" and approaches the party, armor clanking with each step. One gloved hand rests on the hilt of a longsword. The other pulls back a cowl to reveal the face of a young woman with fair skin, red hair, and a haunting gaze.

"Hail, I am Reya Mantlemorn, Hellrider from Elturel. Perhaps we should speak before you go inside looking for that Demon worshipping scumbag, Thurstwell."

The loud wind and rain, thunder and lighting drown out the sounds of her clanking armor, and her voice, and it does not appear any of the guards have been alerted to the newcomers presence.

Group 2 - How do you respond?

5 minutes pass

Time: 1:05 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Reya Mantlemorn, Hellrider

Bruno jumps slightly and stops himself from reflexively shouting out as Rey’s jumps down. He stares incredulously at the young woman as she clanks her way over to the party’s hiding spot.

Jules continues to walk toward the stables and ignores the arrival of the woman.

“Shht! Keep quiet and get down before the guards hear your infernal clanking!”

Bruno peers nervously at the guards surrounding Dartan and the trio of guards walking their way towards an errands of the villa. Turning back to Reya, he raises an eyebrow at the young woman and whispers quickly at her.

“Assuming you’re not full of shit and actually *are* a Hellrider (which seems doubtful) I have a hundred questions for you. However, in case you hadn’t noticed, now’s not a great time for a chat. See those three standing over by the guards?” Bruno motions to Dartan, Mortlock and the pirate.

“We’re here with them because Thurstwell tried to have the big guy killed and we’d like to have a few ‘words’ with the bastard. We were trying to get inside the villa but it looks like things may be about to go pear shaped on us.” Looking around and seeing the rogue has disappeared again, Bruno curses under his breath.

“The chances of things going pear shaped just went up. If you’ve got information or anything that might help us get past these guards and into that villa, let’s hear it but make it quick. We may not have much time.”

with a sly smile,

"This woman is as loud as she is beautiful "

Bartok exclaims in a whisper,

"I actually treated a Hellrider many years ago in me village! He was out after a bounty or somethin, and got jumped by a whole pack of his bounty's friends. Forget 'is name.... Max something? Mad Max maybe....? Anyhow, I've had me luck with hellriders, and it may be luck is with us again! Besides, I've always had a soft spot in me heart for a Lass in Armor! They always be playing "Hard" to get! " Bartok chortles under his breath at his own joke, and a tear leaks out of the corner of his eye as he tries to contain his amusement about his own joke.

"I can answer your questions later and explain everything - but I had questions for Amrik too, and thanks to you, I can't get them answered now. I can't let you kill Thurstwell before I have a chance to question him. So I am coming with you, and *we* are going to question Thurstwell -- the fate of this city depends on it! After I get my answers, you can do what you want with the corrupt bastard." She taps her longsword hilt, "And I am not asking. I am telling. Now unless you want me to blow your cover, I suggest we get inside." (looking around) "And where did that cloaked fella go? (referring to Jules) Your sly looking friend? Hope he doesn't get himself killed wandering off alone"

Bartok searches the wall of the Villa but unfortunately, the east side of the Villa has no windows or doors. There are windows and doors on all other sides of the Villa.

GROUP 1 (Mortlock, Dartan, Desmund)

Meanwhile--the Three guards that left the other group, continue toward the back door of the Villa. Dartan continues to berate the guards and demand entrance, to no avail. The last group of three guards reach the other three that are still guarding Mortlock, Desmund and Dartan.

"Complaining isn't going to get you inside that Villa. Now shut your mouth and lets see what Thurstwell says about the Big guy here." pointing to Mortlock.

Mortlock, Dartan and Desumund continue to keep up the ruse, but take no action to stop the guards from entering the villa.

The three guards enter the Villa to go warn Thurstwell.

5 minutes pass

Time: 1:10 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Breaking In

Bruno looks back and forth between Reya, the group and the collection of guards around Dartan in a mixture of panic and exasperation. Grunting in frustration, he looks at Reya. “Savras’ balls! Fine, but we need to move now before Thurstwell starts to suspect anything.” Looking to the group, Bruno motions them towards the north end of the villa. “The back should be clear. We’ll just have to hope the back door is unlocked but we need to move, *now*.” As he starts to rush through the shadows at the side of the house, Bruno grumbles under his breath and silently wishes he had a moment to consult his cards. “Gods dammit. Hope the big guys god is watching over him…”

Reya, Bruno, Bartok and Hippee head to the north of the Villa toward the front door. The door is locked when they try it.

"Stand back", says Reya. With a swift kick to the door, Reya kicks the villa door in with a "crack". The door swings open to reveal a fancy gallery.

Black curtains are drawn over the windows to the south, keeping this hall dark and cool. This gallery contains an eclectic collection of tapestries, paintings, and alabaster busts on pedestals meant to impress guests. As the party enters the foyer, a man approaches, obviously very put out.

"Intruders! Indruders in the gallery!" he shouts as he stands halfway in the room. He begins to ring a bell loudly.

Group 1 - Bruno, Bartok, Hippee & Reya, what are your reactions to the butler?

Meanwhile - Jules sets fire to the stable house, and releases the three horses. the horses bolt out into the courtyard, causing the six guards that are guarding Dartan, Mortlock and Desmund to turn to face the stablehouse to see all the commotion.

Jules - you are in the stablehouse, what do you do?

"Fire! Fire in the stables!!"

The distraction takes all six guards attention

Group 2 - Dartan, Desmund and Mortlock - what do you do?

5 minutes pass

Time: 1:15 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

The Distraction

Bruno winces as Reya bashes in the north door and mutters under his breath.

“So much for the stealthy approach.” As they enter the foyer, he gestures for the group to hold up for a moment and claps one hand over his ear to try and drown out the sound of the bell ringing. Gesturing quickly, he points towards Mortlock and casts Message.

“We’re inside. We’re in some kind of gallery with stairs leading up. Which way do we go to get to your brother? There’s also an old guy ringing a very noisy bell so we should move fast. You may reply to this message.”

"I understand - Jules just set fire to the stables and the horses are loose. Two guards remain, we are going to take them out and try and get into the villa and meet you inside. Thurstwell will be upstairs, last door on the left"

The guards do not notice Mortlock talking softly to himself over the wind and rain.

Hippee casts Mage hand and attempts to grab the noisy ringing bell from the butler. The Bell is easy to grab (Success) and the ringing suddenly stops as the Hippee's magic hand grabs the bell and starts bringing it back over toward the group.

"Noisy bells annoy me!" Hippee says with a cackle as his spell stops the rining.

"Halt, you are tresspassing on the Vanthampur estate. I must insist that you vacate the premises immediatley!"

Drawing her sword and walking over toward the butler,

"I don't want to kill you- but I will. You can decide if you live or die based on your next action. now shut your mouth and sit down" (points to a chair in the gallery)

The butler complies and takes a seat.

Speaking to Bartok and Bruno,

"Now, anyone have some rope to tie the good butler up while we go find Thurstwell?"

What does Bartok, Bruno and Hippee do next?

Meanwhile--outiside in the courtyard:

As the horses rush out of the stables, and the flames rise - the guards all begin shouting "Fire!" and start rushing over toward the stables to catch the horses. Two guards remain behind to watch over Dartan, Mortlock and Desmund.

@Jules - Roll a stealth check (this will determine if you are actually hidden)

Dartan contines his ruse, and shouts,

"THEY'RE HERE! YOU FOOLS WE COULD HAVE GIVEN THE UPPER HAND BUT NO! QUICK TO THE STABLES! FOR AMRIK!"

As he sees the two guards remaining, Mortlock looks over at Dartan and nods, then breaks free of his shackeles, and (Bonus action) grabbing the great club, viciously attacks (Standard Action) one of the two guards still remaining.

"If you want to live - run away, and don`t ever come back here. there is nothing left for you here!"

Mortlock's great club glances off the guard's armor, narrowly missing, dealing 0 damage.

"Mortlock is Free!" shouts a guard as he starts to draw his sword.,

as he shouts, Desmund draws his sword and attacks.

"Oh, I guess its phase two? (yawns) ok, lets get this over with. What he said. (points to Mortlock)"

Desmund slices intpo the pirate, cutting his arm dealing 5 points of damage!

The pirates running toward the horses do not hear the guards shout or the fight starting, over the wind and rain and thunder.

Jules & Dartan - Roll for initiative.

What does Dartan and Jules do next?

3 minutes pass

Time: 1:18 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Villa Combat - Round 1

Bruno presses a hand to his ear and nods at something only he seems to be able to hear. Turning suddenly at Reya’s question about rope he looks about the room quickly. Using his dagger, he cuts a length of the cord used to pull the drapes. Tossing the length of cord to Bartok to tie up the butler, he looks to the group.

“Thurstwell is up the stairs, last door on the left. The others are on their way and will head in when they can. Thurstwell probably got a few guards with him, so we’ll need to be careful. We should move quickly before he has a chance to escape.” Bruno half bows at the woman in plate armor and gestures up the stairs. “After you, Hellrider.”

As Bruno is cutting the cord, Bartok has already torn his scarf and has begun tying up the butler.

"Sorry friend. ye sit here and, keep it quiet for a bit. and we'll loose ya on our way out. If ye decide to keep makin noise, I'll use the other half of this for yer mouth. Whadda ya say?"

The butler, with a scowl, nods his head and remains quiet

Hippee then begins to cast a spell, and casts Charm Person on the butler

"“My old friend! My new friends and I are here to see your master, is he upstairs by himself?”

The butlers eyes gloss over slightly and the scowl on his face turns to a grin.

"Oh my, it's been some time hasn't it. I don't recall your name? No matter, yes, the master is upstairs... He is concerned about some rebel group that has been causing trouble with his business. He is not alone - He has four imps that are guarding him, and three of the couryard guards just went up to speak to him, minutes before you arrived. Plus there are five more guards at the top of the stairs, guarding his bedroom. We should go warn him - I think I hear shouting outside? do you hear anything?"

The butler, looks at his tied hands and then back to Hippee.

"I don't remember being captured? quick, set me free and we can go warn Thurstwell together!"

Upon hearing that Thurstwell is guarded, Reya smiles,

"Four imps? three guards? And five more at the top" she looks at Hippee, Bartok and Bruno. "We can take them. Come on boys, follow me"

Reya starts toward the stairs with longsword in hand.

Meanwhile - outside in the courtyard the battle continues.

The horses continue to bolt in the courtyard

Jules hides behind the north wall of the villa while Mortlock, Dartan and Desmund try and quickly subdue the two guards left on them while the other four guards close in on the burning stables.

Everyone is now in combat - to keep the movement with all groups in synch.

Time: 1:18 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Nothing goes off without a hitch

Outside as the stable fire grows and the horses are loose in the courtyard, the four guards reach the stables and scramble to put out the fire. The wind and rain help only a little, but the fire has grown too large by now for mere rain to put it out. Luckily there are no flammable buildings close to the stable, so it is looking like the only damage will be to the stable house.

Standard Action: Mortlock smashes the guards head with his Greatclub dealing 8 points of damage, killing him!

the second guard, with a look of fright, swings at Dartan.

Standard Action: The Guard fumbles his sword, and drops it in the courtyard. He then surrenders.

"Look, I don`t want any trouble. Let me go!"

(Starts to tie up the guard)

" Good choice, mate. Now hold still."

"Can`t have you screaming and alerting the others. When they find you, tell them thrustwell has been disposed and they are dismissed".

shoves the scarf in the guards mouth

After Dartan and Desmund finish tying and gagging the guard in the courtyard, the three of them head toward the south door of the villa.

Jules, remaining stealthy, reaches the front door of the Villa. but remains hidden.

Meanwhile - inside the villa

Bartok stares after Reya in obvious admiration!

“By my beard what a woman!“ Looking back quickly at Bruno, and hippee he dashes up the stairs after her. “No time to waste lads! let’s get to it!“ His short legs pumping, he readies his shield and pulls his mace off his belt as he climbs.

Bruno looks from the butler to Hippee and back with a look of surprise and eventually, recognition.

“Er, right! The scoundrels that set fire to the stables must have been the ones who tied you up. If we hurry, we can send the guards upstairs down to help at the stables! We will go with you to check on Thurstwell’s safety.” Bruno winks at the group to clue them in to the ruse and proceeds to untie the butler.

“NO TIME FOR NAMES OLD CHAP! We must hurry! The stables are on fire, we must tell the guards upstairs!” Hippee winks at Bruno very aggressively

"Oh right! We are under attack! Thurstwell must be warned. Come, we will see him together"

The butler heads upstairs with the party

When the group reaches the top of the stairs, there are Five guards that are standing with swords ready.

"Stand down, gentlemen. My friend here has come to warn us of an attack underway in the courtyard. the stables are alight, and burning - the other need help!"

The butler frantically tries to convince the guards to go to the stables, but the guards do not seem impressed.

"What is the meaning of this? Fendrick? you were told not to allow anyone to enter! You are bewitched!" (*Turning toward the other guards) " Men, draw swords, the intruders are before us!"

The five guards draw blades and prepare to defend themselves.

Reya looks the five guards drawing swords, and smiles,

"Gentlemen, I suggest you lay down your swords. I have killed fiends and devils, far more powerful than any of you. I don't wish to kill you, but I will. Now stand aside"

She points her longsword threateningly at the five guards, and as she does, Bartok, Bruno and Hippee reach the top of the stairs behind her.

Please Roll Initiatives - Bruno, Hippee, Bartok.

Time: 1:18 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

The Rogue, The Paladin and the Battle

The five Villa Guards - Standard Actions

1. A Villa Guard strikes Reya, dealing 3 damage to her wrist. However, you notice that she doesn`t take as much damage, and only takes 1 damage instead.

"Nice try, lass, but you its not use that will be killed. Shame to kill such a pretty face. Lets get her boys!"

2. One of the guards fires an arrow but it whizzes past Reya, missing.

"Take her out!"

3. A guard flanks reya, and slices at her, his sword pierces her side, dealing 3 damage but you notice she doesn`t seem to take as much damage, and takes 1 damage instead.

"I got her."

4. A villa guard attacks Bartok with his short sword but Bartok blocks with his shield with a loud "CLANG"

"Ill take the dwarf!"

5. the last guards fires his shortbow at Reya, and the arrow pierces her armor, hitting her shoulder, doing 5 damage but the damage does not seem as bad and she instead only takes 1 damage instead.

"Die!"

Standard Action: Hippee casts Eldrich Blast at one of the villa guards, and the blast slams him for 8 points of damage!

"Are you trying to be sneaky? I don`t allow just any man to get behind me with his sword." (spins around and swings her longsword two handed)

Standard Action: Reya slashes her longsword at the Villa Guard, nearly severing him at the knee dealing 10 points of damage!

Bruno lets off a streak of ice, the ray of frost deals 6 points of damage to the Villa Guard, Killing him!

"Fendrik! Get yourself someplace safe. We’ll manage these traitorous guards and see to your master."

Fendrick listens to Bruno, but looks confused, looks at Hippee, then back to Bruno, then carefully positions himself in the corner of the top floor.

"Right, I'll stand right over here... while you eliminate the traitorous guards...." (scratching his head)

Standard Action: Bartok slams the guard with his mace, dealing 7 points of damage!

Bonus Action: Bartok follows up with a swift strike to the guards face with his shield, dealing another 4 points of damage!

The battle continues to rage at the top of the steps as the rest of the party enter the Villa.

Meanwhile - The rogue enters the Villa through the north door.

The rogue slips inside the villa (Giggedy) You can hear fighting coming from upstairs. The Gallery is quiet but the sounds of swords clashing and spells going off can clearly be heard up the stairs to the Rogue's left as he enters the villa. Looking to avoid detection and giving away any element of surprise, and unsure where the party has gone, the rogue begins to stealthily roam through villa and creeps South through the double doors on the right and steps into the chamber quietly closing the doors behind him.

The Rogue enters The Dining room:

An iron-wrought chandelier hangs above a black oak dining table surrounded by eight high-backed chairs carved to look like devils. A fireplace dominates one wall, flanked by red-curtained windows. A handsome, glass-doored wine cabinet stands against one wall.

Rogue, what do you do next?

Meanwhile - Dartan, Mortlock and Desmund enter the Villa through the south doors.

Dartan sees Jules through the window and smiles, thinking everything is going according to plan. "Well done, friend" he says to himself. ""Let's go men! We have fratricide to commit." Dartan enters the villa and Mortlock and Desmund follow him inside.

The Paladin, Pirate and Brother enter the Foyer:

Apart from the main entrance, this room has two exits. A plaster shelf lined with ornate vases circles the room at a height of nine feet. Spread across the flagstone floor is a ten-foot-wide, fifteen-foot-long rug of exquisite design, depicting a royal coronation. Two tapestries hanging on the walls depict a dragon flying over a ship and pilgrims on camels, respectively.

"We must be extremely watchful - Thurstwell has dark pacts with devils and employs many imps. They will be watching - possibly in this very room"

As mortlock is speaking, four imps suddenly materialize and attack the group in the Foyer.

"He's here! He's Here! Master will be so pleased when I kill you!"

The Four imps surprise Mortlock, Desmund and Dartan

1. The invisible imp appears and surprises Mortlock, but Mortlock blocks the stinger with his club.

"We gets him!"

2. Another Imp surprises Desmund, but Desmund parries the stinger.

"We eats their hearts once they die."

3. A third imp strikes Desmund while he is parrying the last imp, this time Desmund is stung for 5 points of damage, but desmund shrugs off the poison.

"Yes, delicious hearts!"

4. The last imp critically hits Mortlock with a stinger to the neck, Mortlock takes 12 points of damage and fails his save throw, taking another 12 points of poison damage

"The brother will be dead and we please master Thurstwell."

Round 4 has begun.

Time: 1:19 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Villa Combat Round 4

The Rogue in the Dining room

The rogue searches the room starting with the wine cabinet. He puts a couple bottles in his pack, The rogue finds no brandy, so he doesn't take a pull. He’s looks around for things of value, and hidden panels. There are a set of eight crystal goblets that look valuable. While appearing nonchalant, his roguish proclivities keep him on guard. While he searches, he also pours heavy amounts of wine on the devilish table.

The rogue finds no secret panels or stairs leading out of this room, there is a door leading out of the dining room on the south wall.

Meanwhile in the foyer- The rouge hears shouting and snarling as Dartan, Desmund and Mortlock begin battling the imps

Standard Action: Mortlock, caught by surpirse, swings and misses the imp with his club.

I hate IMPS!

Standard Action: Dartan swings his massive sword, but the tiny imp just dodges it.

"I`m growing tires of you bastards"

Standard Action: Desmund slices one of the imps with his scimitar, cutting off it`s wing, (Dealing 14 points of damage) then Stabbing it through the chest as it hits the floor, killing it!

"I didn`t agree to this, I could be having a drink at the Lantern, but noo..."

The Imps attack

1. The imp strikes Mortlock with it`s stinger, dealing 7 points of damage!

2. Another Imp stings Desmund, hitting him for 4 points of damage!

3. The last imp strikes at Dartan, stinging him for 7 points of damage!

"Kills them!" it shouts!

The battle continues raging upstairs as well, as Bruno, Bartok, Hippee and Reya fight the guards.

The Villa guards press their attack

1. The Villa guard shoots his short bow at Hippee, but hippee dodges the arrow.

"The woman must have some kind of enchantment, our attacks aren`t hurting her. take out the spell caster! I`ll get the small one."

2. The next Villa guard slices at Reya, but she parries the attack.

"We need to warn Thurstwell, you two fall back and let him know we`ve got company!"

3. The next Villa guard tries to hit Reya, but she parries the attack again.

"I cant hurt her, she is enchanted!"

Standard Action: Hippee casts Eldrich Blast at one of the guards, the blast hits for 10 points of damage!

"Go for the eyes!"

One of the villa guards with the bow, retreats and enters the last door on the left (presumably Thurstwells room)

Standard Action: Raya strikes at the guard, cutting him for 9 points of damage!

"We don't have all day!, Lets finish these two and get in that room, before Thurstwell finds a way to escape"

*eyes darting and looking for an opening*

Standard Action: Bruno casts Ray of Frost, and a beam of ice hits a guard, dealing 8 points of damage, Killing him!

Standard Action: Bartok reels back his mace, and bashes the Villa guard, dealing 9 points of damage!

Bonus Action: Bartok brings his shield up, breaking the guards jaw, dealing 6 points of damage, Killing him!

"Hum dee dee dum! Gonna beat ya like a drum!! You're next laddie", the dwarf hums a tune as bones crack and blood splatters.

Round 5 has begun.

The two villa guards that were in the hallway both have made it into Thurstwell's room.

Time: 1:19 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

When plans fail, Improvise

Standard Action: Mortlock, wildly swings his greatclub at the small flying imp, in his haste, he fumbles and cracks Dartan on the head, dealing 4 points of damage to Dartan! (Critical Fumble)

"Ugh, you annoying Imps - go back to HELL!", upon seeing he cracked Dartan in the head, Mortlock winces

Standard Action: Desmund tries to slice the imp, but his scimitar misses, and he strikes the floor. Missing.

(Yawn) "You all fight so sloppy. How is it you made it this far?"

Standard Action: Dartan continues to swing at the imps, but fails to make contact. Miss!

(as Dartan is fighting he hears bruno's voice in his head,) "“Top of the stairs is clear and we’re moving to Thurstwell’s room. I placed some ball bearings at the top of the stairs. Watch your step. You may reply to this message.”"

The Three Imps attack:

1. The Imp Stings dartan, and he fails his save throw, succumbing to poison, Dartan takes 12 points of damage nearly killing him!

2. another Imp stings Dartan, dealing 6 points of damage, Dartan goes down and is dying. But in a show of sheer willpower, Dartan staggers for a second and remains on his feet.. veins in his neck and forehead begin to bulge as his face turns red with rage. (Relentless Endurance)

"Death! Me kills one!"

3. The last imp stings Mortlock, and he fails his save throw taking 10 points of damage!

Meanwhile -- Upstairs

Bruno gives Bartok an adrenaline boosted, congratulatory pat on the back as the dwarf lays out the guard before him. Bruno glances at Reya and nods quickly.

“There may be some truth to you yet. When this is done, I’d like to buy you a drink and ask a hundred questions. For now though, we need to get after Thurstwell. You and Bartok go first and the wee one and I will follow.” As they move towards Thurstwell’s room, Bruno quickly grabs a pouch of ball bearings from his pack and dumps them at the top of the top of the stairs. Gesturing quickly in the direction he saw Dartan, Bruno casts Message.

“You too my Lad! Gave him the old ‘cold shoulder’ ya did!“ Bartok winks at Bruno and gazes at the door. “All right lass, no escaping this time for this old viper! Let’s be done with him…“

Bartok begins to carefully move forward to the door where the guards escaped. Mace at the ready and shield held level to the base of his mustache, so all you can see are his blazing blue eyes behind a wall of steel.

Hippee yells to the butler

“Fendrick! The traitorous guards are headed to your Master! Quick after them! Master must be warned!” Hippee watches the old butler scurry towards and past Bartok in To the door the guards entered…He smiles at Bruno and winks at Raya “Free human shield…after you folk”

"But two of the guards already went into his room! You must stop them, they will slay the master. I have no weapons and cannot stand against them!"

The butler looks at the party, wondering why they aren't chasing the guards. He hustles over to the door and then nods at Reya, "I'll open the door and you charge in? on three.... one....two....", the Butler swings the door open as Reya charges through.

As Reya enters the room, there are four guards standing in front of a frail looking man, all with their swords drawn and ready to defend him.

the frail man looks at her and the Dwarf as they enter the room. Behind the guards, is a female Tiefling holding a quarterstaff. She grins evilly as the group enters and she spins her staff around in a show of skill.

Readied Action:

thurstwell casts Sacred flame as a readied action as Reya enters the room. She fails her save throw, and is burned for 5 points of radiant damage!

"So, the filthy scum has finally reached me. Well you are too late, fools. Qi. Make quick work of them. I don`t have time for this today."

"With pleasure, master Thurstwell" the tiefling, pulls out a hand crossbow and fires it over the guards.

Readied Action: the Tiefling fires a hand crossbow and the bolt whizzes past Reyas head, sticking into the wall.

The Guards use their readied actions to attack Reya as she enters the room

1. Using a readied action, the guard slices at Reya but she parries the blow.

2. Using a readied action, the next guard slices at Reya, but she parries that attack as well.

3. Readied Action: The next guard, stabs at Reya and slashes her neck, scoring a CRITICAL HIT, the hit looks like it did 8 points of damage, but Reya only takes 1 point instead.

4. The last guard, using his readied action, slashes across reya`s stomach, dealing 6 points of damage, but the damage is less than expected and she takes 1 point instead.

"We cant hurt her, master Thurstwell!"

"We meet at last, You know why I am here. Now where is the box?"

"Box? What box would that be?" he says with a sly grin. "Allow me to introduce my newest body guard, Qi Xan. She will put some holes in you."

To his guards, "You fools, she must have a magic charm" looks at her and spots a bracelet, "That bracelet, remove it from her arm!"

Meanwhile - The Rogue enters the Parlor

The rogue shrugs at the crystal and puts sets the open bottle on the table and moves the the southern door leading out of the dining room and enters the next room.

There is a high-backed chair facing a pair of padded couches and a coffee table. Thin drapes cover the windows to diffuse the natural light, and the walls are lined with framed paintings of the duke, her three dead husbands, her three sons, and the family's winged cat, A plaque under the cat reads "Slobberchops."

The Rogue can clearly hear the fighting in the Foyer as Dartan, Desmund and Mortlock battle the imps. The rogue hears the shouting and the chittering and spitting and laughing of the imps.

Round 6 begins

Time: 1:19 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

The Devil is in the Details (Round 5)

Standard Action: the Monk fires her hand crossbow again, this time her bolt hits Reya in the arm, dealing 7 points of damage. A sizzle is heard as the bolt strikes.

"The hellrider bitch is no trouble, master Thurstwell. She is nothing without her trinket"

Wincing from the acid damage burning her skin,

Standard Action: Reya disengages, and uses fancy footwork to move past the Villa guards and engages the Monk.

"I am going to take out the Tiefling. She is too dangerous, focus fire on her! Fight!!!"

Bonus Action: Thurstwell Casts Sanctuary on himself. If you target Thurstwell, you must make a Wisdom SAVE THROW vs. DC 15, if you fail you must target someone else.

"none shall enter my sanctuary and live!"

Standard Action: Thurstwell tries to Charm Bartok, but Bartok resists the spell.

"You dwarf, don`t you remember that we are good friends? of course you do...."

The Villa Guards attack:

1. One of the Villa guards attacks Reya, but she easily parries his attack.

"Not so fast, Hellrider"

2. One of the Villa guards attacks Bartok - but Bartok blocks the attack with his shield.

"Let the boss deal with the hellrider, lets get these spellcasters and the dwarf. Quick rush the door!!"

3. One of the guards attacks Reya, and slices across her breast, dealing 4 points of damage, however she takes less than it seems and instead only takes 1 point of damage.

*looks confused as the Hellrider pushes past him**

4. A guard slices at Bartok, hitting him in the side for 6 points of damage!

Bruno’s eyes go wide as Dartan’s response to his message arrives.

“Dartan’s in trouble! He ran into imps and sounds really hurt.” Bruno glances back and hesitates for half a second before looking to Bartok and the guards quickly advancing. Gritting his teeth tightly, Bruno gestures at one of the guards and casts another Ray of Frost before stepping into the path of one of the guards to protect Bartok’s flank. He grimaces and mutters under his breath as the Ray of Frost hits its target. “Sorry big guy. Hope your god is with you right now.”

Standard Action: Bruno casts Ray of Frost, the blast hits the Villa Guard dealing 4 points of damage! ** Luck was on your side **

*Gritting his teeth in concentration and panic*

Standard Action: Bartok misses his strike as he swings wildly at the Villa guard.

"Whoa there Sonny! That`s me best friend!"

Bonus Action: Bringing his shield up, the Guard blocks with his shortsword.

Meanwhile - down in the Foyer

Standard Action:Mortlock smashes an imp for 9 points of damage!

"Why my brothers have to employ imps!!"

Standard Action: desmund slashes an imp, cutting it deeply for 8 points damage!

(yawn)

Standard Action:Dartan lays hands on himself and recovers 15 hit points

The Imps Attack:

1. One of the imps tries to sting Desmund but the Pirate blocks the stinger with his scimitar.

"Stings them we do. Yes stings them to death!"

2. Another imp jumps on Dartan`s back as he struggles to fight off the squirly imps, it lands a stinger on his butt, dealing 6 points of damage, Dartan shrugs off the poison this time.

"This one is almost dead, we kills it dead!"

3. The imps keep pressing their attack, and one stings Dartan again for 5 points of damage. He shrugs off the poison again.

"He dies if we stings it! Weak they are. Yes!"

In the Parlor---

The rogue contemplates the picture of Slobberchops as the sounds of melee grow louder. He sighs as ‘tis likely a wall safe somewhere in the parlor but turns and heads swiftly and quietly through the door on his left and transverses the foyer to the next door, Mumbling while crossing the hall,

“of all the actual whoresons of all nine hells these gods damnable corpse raping cultists won’t let nobody make a little profit so needs must we put blade to cock holsters and see what shakes loose…”

Standard Action: With swords in hand, wine on his breath and a curse on his lips, the rogue bursts through the door and attacks the first enemy he sees. He slices into an imp, dealing 7 points of damage and 4 points of sneak damage, Killing it.

"Whores and Devils!!", the rogue shouts as he destroys the imp and moves into the room.

the imps shriek in excitement and dread

Round 7 begins

Time: 1:19 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Villa Combat Round 7

Standard Action: The monk spins her bo staff in a blur and begins to pummel the Hellrider, the first blow lands with a *crack* and deals 9 damage to Reya.

"Foolish Hellrider, you all are so rash and unwise."

Bonus Action: The second blow from the monk, is blocked by Reya with her longsword.

"Let me teach you the way of pain."

Standard Action: Hippee raises his finger dramatically into the air, and then points at one of the Villa Guards. The crackle of energy hits the guard for 10 points of damage!

"Today is a good day for you to die. Sunny, pleasant breeze. Now get over here so we can do this."

Standard Action: Reya slashes at the monk with her Longsword, but the monk parries the attack with her staff.

"A magic quarterstaff? I didn`t see that coming! (sarcastically), You`ll find I am a capable swordswoman - and I also have a few tricks up my sleeve too."

Bonus Action: Reya draws her shortsword and with her off hand attacks, but the monk blocks the second blow with her staff!

** reya draws a shortsword and begins fighting two handed **

Frenzied Attack (second Standard): Reya uses her frenzied attack ability, to make another melee attack with her Longsword, but the Monk again blocks the attack with the staff.

"Not bad, not bad at all!"

Standard Action: A searing radiant light envelopes Bartok, he is unable to escape the heat and he is burned for 8 points of Radiant damage!

"Guards, let Qi destroy the hellrider, focus on their spellcasters, I`ll eliminate the Dwarf."

Bonus Action: thurstwell lobs a vial at Bartok, the vial shatters on the floor at bartoks feet, setting a small flame. (anyone on this space has disadvantage on attacks due to the increased difficult of avoiding the sticky fire) *Bartok - you must move or have disadvantage on your attacks*

"Burn Dwarf! I have always hated your kind! Despicable creatures. The Gods forsook your race!"

The Villa Guards attack

1. A guard swings at Bartok, But the grinning dwarf brings his shield up to block - stopping the attack.

"Fendrick! Move out of the way, so we can get into the hall!"

"We can`t get through the door! We need to knock down that dwarf!", says

2. the guard as he disengages from Reya.

3. The guard slices at Hippee, his sword cuts down across the gnomes forehead, nicking him for 2 points of damage!

"Die little spellcaster!"

4. The guard disengages from reya and moves toward the door where Bartok is holding his ground.

"That dwarf is trouble - push him back!"

Beads of sweat begin to form on Bruno’s brow as the guard swings wide by him. Seeing Hippee take a small cut, Bruno grits his teeth and scans the area looking for an opportunity. Spotting one of the guards slightly slumped and breathing heavily in front of Bartok, Bruno gestures quickly and sends three bolts of purple arcane force streaking forward. Knowing his spell will strike home, Bruno turns his attention back to the smoldering space occupied by the laboring dwarf and silently crosses his fingers. Grumbling under his breath, he tries to push the creeping worry out of his mind and focuses on what comes next.

“Where in the nine hells is everyone?!”

Standard Action: Bruno sets off a flurry of missiles, they strike a guard for 8 points of damage! Killing him!

Standard Action: Bartok drinks his potion of healing and he recovers 10 hit points

"Oooooo. Cherry flavor!"

Bonus Action: Bartok casts Healing word and a ray of healing energy restores Reya for 8 points

"Hang in there lass!"

Meanwhile - the battle in the Foyer-

Standard Action: Mortlock viciously slams the Imp in the face, exploding it`s head, dealing 10 damage killing it!

"Welcome back, Rogue.", says Mortlock as he sees the rogue enter the room with blades slicing.

Standard Action: Desmund tries to slice an imp, but misses.

Sleep Tight, little imp. (yawn)

Standard Action: Dartan repositions himself and slashes at the Imp dealing 7 points of damage, Killing it!

Tyr, guide my hand

As the last imp falls - the group in the foyer begins to head toward the fighting upstairs.

"Rogue, my brothers room is directly above us, we will go up the stairs, you could climb in from outside and go through the window - he won't be expecting that, we cold get the element of surprise." Then turning to Dartan and Desmund, "We should head upstairs and help the others! Come" Mutters Mortlock as he runs out the door and toward the stairs. Desmund shrugs and follows him, as does Dartan.

Jules nods and dashes out the door and begins to climb the wall (Athletics Check 10) up to the second story window.

Time: 1:19 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Villa Combat Round 8

Standard Action: The monk strikes with her staff, but Reya blocks the attack with her sword.

Flurry of Blows (2 unarmed strikes) (ki): Using her Ki, she unleashes an unarmed flurry of blows, the first punch hits Reya in the face, dealing 5 points of damage, but the damage isn`t as expected and she only takes 1 point instead.

The monk kicks with her second flurry of blows attack, but the kick misses Reya.

Bonus Action: The monk follows up with another strike with her quarterstaff, but Reya parries the attack.

You are quick, I`ll give you that, Hellrider.

Standard Action: Mortlock fires a crossbow bolt, and it connects with a villa guard, hitting him in the shoulder dealing 7 points of damage!

Standard Action: Hippee tries to cast Witch Bolt, but he has run out of magic power and his spell fizzles.

"I will bite your ankles next"

The rogue darts outside and climbs up to the second floor with some effort; (Standard Action) smashes through the window and (Bonus action) quaffs a potion as he stands and (Hasted Action) slices at the monk from behind as the haste takes effect, pierces the monk with his short sword dealing 5 points of damage and 5 points of sneak damage!

. With a growl and a grin, “Nobody was expecting that, eh Walter?” The rogue’s short swords are a blur as the melee continues.

*seeing the Rogue shatter the window and enter the room ** "ahh, there is the sneaky fellow."

Standard Action: Reya slices at the monk, who again Parries the attack.

shouting to the spell casters,

"Focus all your magic on the monk - she`s too fast!"

Frenzied Attack: Reya uses her Frenzied attack ability to make another standard action attack, but the monk parries the attack.

Bonus Action: ** gritting teeth ** Using her off hand, Reya tries to slice the monk, who blocks the sword attack again.

Standard Action: Thurstwell casts a spell and Radiant heat envelopes the Dwarf, burning him for 3 points of damage.

The Villa Guards attack

1. One of the Villa guards steps onto the Alchemists fire space, and attacks Hippee (disadvantage), he slices Hippee across the head, leaving a gash near his ear for 5 points of damage!

2. Another guard, steps into the door and stabs at Bartok as bartok is distracted by the new guard that moved into the hall, but Bartok is too fast, and blocks the stab with his shield.

3. The last Villa guard, swipes at Hippee again, and nicks him across the top of the head for 1 point of damage!

Bruno reflexively takes a step back as the guards advance on him and Hippee. As the guard in front of him swipes at Hippee and draws another bead of blood, Bruno spies an opening on the guards flank.

Standard Action: Glancing towards the guard standing over the small flames, he takes a deep breath, steels himself, and darts towards the guards side, bracing for an incoming impact. He exhales quickly as the guard swings wide and quickly draws his dagger. Lunging towards the guard, his dagger pierces his chest, dealing 6 points of damage, killing him! Bruno stares down at the dagger in a look a of surprise at how much easier that was than he thought. Almost as if he was seeing the dagger for the first time. In all the excitement, Bruno is so excited that he was able to use the dagger, he doesn't notice that he killed the guard.

Looking up and seeing Dartan approach, Bruno's attention snaps back to the melee. "Dartan! Glad to see you made it!"

Standard Action: Bartok takes his mace and bashes one of the guards in the knees, a snap is heard as the guard cries out in pain, he takes 9 points of damage!

"I’m gonna need ya to move!"

bonus Action: Bartok then raises his shield hand and says a prayer, and an aura of healing energy bathes Dartan, recovering 7 points to the half-orc.

"Get up Rock! Ya Sonofa bitch! Cause Mickey loves ya!!"

Time: 1:19 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

The Vanthampur Dilemma Round 9

Standard Action: The monk beats Reya in the face for 10 points of damage with her quarterstaff.

Flurry of Blows 1: The monk does a roundhouse kick, but Reya blocks it.

Flurry of Blows 2: The monk punches Reya in the stomach for 6 points of damage but the damage is less than expected and Reya takes 1 point of damage instead.

Bonus Action: With an off hand bash with her quarterstaff, the monk smashes Reya in the chest for 8 points of damage, cracking a rib

"Two against one? really? thats your plan?"

Standard Action: Mortlock fires his heavy crossbow at a guard, and the bolt pierces his femur, dealing 8 points of damage.

"We're coming for you Thurstwell."

Standard Action: Dartan raises his greatsword and decapitates the Villa guard, dealing 20 points of damage.

"Die"

Standard Action: Desmund slices at the guard and gashes him in the shoulder for 4 points of damage.

Standard Action: Hippee slashes at the guard but misses.

Standard Action: The Rogue lunges at the monk but she parries his attack with her staff.

Bonus Action: Jules follows up with an off hand slice to which the monk again denies his attack..

Hasted Action: Jules swing around planting his sword into Thurstwells abdomen. His blade pierced him through for a critical hit! Dealing 10 points of damage, he goes down, dying.

Standard Action: Reya, in anger at Thurstwells demise, slashes wildly at the monk but misses.

(to the Rogue) "You fool! I needed to question that bastard! He had information that we need to save this city!"

Bonus Action: Reya jabs with her off hand attack, but the monk parries the blow.

Frenzied Attack (Extra Attack): Reya uses her Frenzied attack to strike again with her Longsword, this time cutting the monk across the face, leaving a deep cut dealing 8 points of damage!

The guard swings at Desmund, cutting his shoulder for 5 points of damage!

Standard Action: Three missiles stream from Bruno`s finger and all slam into the Monk dealing 12 points of damage!

** Lady Luck smiles on bruno **

Standard Action: Bartok reams the villa guard in the knee cap, dealing 8 points of damage!

Bonus Action: Bartok raises his hand and an aura of healing energy (cast at level 2) and restores 15 hit points to the hellrider.

Time: 1:20 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

Thurstwell Vanthampur

The monk disengages from the battle and heads toward the window

"You have no idea the wrath that you have incurred"

** looks at Thurstwell as he lies dying on the floor **.

"This won`t end well for you."

The monk jumps through the broken window, but misses her footing and lands on the ground in the courtyard, taking 6 points of falling damage!

the monk gets to her feet, and advances another 15 feet in the courtyard, fleeing.

Mortlock goes over to his Dying brother and kneels next to him.

"I am here, Brother. I wanted you to make sure you saw me before you die. You fucking bastard. Enjoy your servitude to whatever infernal fiend you owe your soul to". *spits on his brother*

Hippee turns his sickle on Fendrick. Slashing him across the belly, dealing 5 points of damage. Ending the charm spell.

"We aren't friends anymore"

The rogue gives chase to the fleeing monk.

Jules leaps from the window. But his foot catches on a piece of broken glass, and he falls instead slamming to the ground taking 5 points of falling damage. He staggers to his feet and charges at the monk.

Jules engages the monk, who brings her staff up to block. But with a sneaky move, jules breaks her defenses and his blade pierced the monks throat, dealing 8 points of damage and 8 points of sneak damage. The monk, gurgling blood and unable to speak, slumps on his blade and falls dead.

**looking through Thurstwells pockets** “where is it, you devil worshipping scum? I know you have it”. She shakes Thurstwell and he coughs and responds weakly,

“you can go to hell”. He says. Searches Thurstwells body looking for something.

Bruno carefully steps over the small flames and makes his way to the broken window. Leaning out with his hand extended in direction the monk leapt in, he quickly lowers it as he sees the rogue standing over the monks unmoving body. Pulling himself back into the room, he looks from the pale, bloody, form of Thurstwell over to Reya. Sighing heavily, he walks over to one of windows facing to the west and opens it. Letting the cool air wash into the room, he addresses the Hellrider.

“Doesn’t look like he’s in much of a state to answer many questions now. How badly do you need answers from him? The dwarf or I could bring him back so you can talk to him.”

Bruno gestures to Mortlock.

“Might even be a bonus since Mortlock here could have an opportunity to be the one to end his brother.”

Answering Bruno,

"I've been tracking Thavius Kreeg, the high overseer of Elturel to Baldur's Gate. He had an artifact, that I believe contains some vital information about what happened to Elturel and that may be needed to save Baldur's Gate from the same fate. My leads have led me to the Vanthampurs as to where Thavius may be in the city, and where this artifact is."

Looking back to Thurstwell -

"Where is the artifact? and where is Thavius Kreeg?"

Thurstwell does not respond.

Mortlock walks up to Thurstwell and lifts him off the ground, and shakes him

"Where is he, Brother. Tell me and we will speed up your passing"

Thurstwell opens his eyes weakly, and with a soft, weak voice, replies "Go .... to..... hell"

With an angry snort, Mortlock throws his limp body on the floor with a "thump"

Fendrick vomits all over Hippee and tries to flee -but slips and falls on the ball bearings, you hear a loud "snap" as he breaks his ankle.

Combat has ended.

5 minutes pass

Time: 1:25 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

The Search for the Artifact

Hippee with a triumphant strut walks towards the quickly dying Thurstwell and removes one of his shoes

“There, now we are even”

Bartok finishes tying up the guard in the corner and walks up to Thurstwell patting his beard to extinguish the last of the radiant smolders. As his spell takes effect, Reya finishes binding Thurstwells hands and feet so he is unable to easily gesture or flee.

"insult me race, and burn me face, but for yer crimes....ye'll die in disgrace." Bartok leans close and puts a finger on Thurstwell's forehead. (Thurstwell slowly opens his eyes as Bartok stabalizes him)

"Ye've lost, and I'd finish ye myself, but this Lass aint done with you yet. And your brother deserves better than to hear a curse on yer dying breath. Now....where's the artifact? and why'd ye try ter have yer own blood killed!"

"I can keep ye on the edge of death for a good long while if I have to. " Bartok says with a gleam in his eye.

Thurstwell looks at the dwarf, and Reya both standing over him, Mortlock stands nearby with his great club leaning against his left shoulder.

"If I tell you where Thavius is and where the Infernal puzzle box is, do you promise to let me go? I won't tell you anything without some assurance that no further harm comes to me"

"You're in no position to make any kind of bargain. You and your dealings with devils is putting everyone in grave danger. Is your life somehow more valuable than the thousands that will be damned? or do you not care about them?" Reya moves away from Thurstwell and speaks quietly to the party,

"He is too dangerous and powerful to be left alive. Turning him over to the authorities will not have any lasting effect. His mother is the Duke of Baldur's gate and has more power than the Flaming Fist. "

Bruno relaxes a bit as Bartok touches Thurstwell's head and stabilizes him. At the mention of a missing artifact, Bruno begins searching Thurstwell's room looking for anything that looks valuable or resembles an artifact. While going through one of Thurstwell's drawers, he nods at Hippee.

"We may want to see if your butler friend knows anything about where our artifact might be. What do you think?"

Bruno stands up a little straighter and turns to face Reya as she mentions Elturel and Thavius Kreeg.

"Wait a moment. What happened to Elturel? All we've heard is gossip and stories about the city having 'fallen' but no one seems to know exactly what happened. And now Thavius Kreeg is actually here in Baldur's Gate? And your leads led you to the Vanthampurs..." Bruno pauses in thought. "What business do you think Thavius would have with the Vanthampurs? Did they have something to do with whatever happened in Elturel?"

"I don't know for sure what has happened to Elturel, I was training a few miles north of Elturel when the city vanished. The companions light first went out, and turned black and then there was a horrible noise. I can't describe it - but the city appeared to crumble before my eyes and sink below the horizon." Reya grabs her temples with the palms of her hand "I cant get the image out of my mind... When I returned to where the city stood, there was just a crater. A city of thousands, gone. Hundreds survived somehow - and I led a group of the survivors here to Baldur's Gate. On the road here, I spoke to several people that said they saw what looked like devils, grabbing people from below the ground and dragging people down - almost as if the ground was as thin as water."

Reya grits her teeth

"I have been investigating with the refugees and have learned that the high overseer of Elturel fled just before the destruction - and I managed to capture and question on of his henchmen, and learned that Thavius knew of the impending doom - and that the Grand Duke, Ulder Ravenguard was called to Elturel by Thavius and that he was working with the Vanthampurs to get the duke out of the way so they could become the ruling power here in this City. But that wasn't all -- "

She turns back to Thurstwell

"The henchman told me that Thavius is planning the same fate for this city... Now tell us - Thurstwell - where is Thavius and where is the box he brought. We know that he was bringing it to you. Why.?"

"Promise me you won't kill me and I'll tell you what I know"

Thurstwell looks terrified.

What does Dartan, Hippee, Bruno and Bartok do?

The rogue searches the monk throughly And goes back into the parlor... he can hear guards talking in the Gallery -- it sounds as if the guards are going to head upstairs to check on Thurstwell... (these would be the guards that put out the stable fire)

The Rogue sees 4 guards

Do you want to warn the party upstairs? or continue searching the parlor?

15 minutes pass

Time: 1:40 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh

The Plot Thickens

Bruno stops short in his search of Thurstwell's room when Reya mentions the city of Elturel vanished. He stands awkwardly in silence and stares off into the distance at something only Bruno seems to be able to see. Visions of demons dragging folks into a fiery underworld swim through his head as fresh beads of sweat begin to form at his temples. Reya finishes her tale and Bruno's eyes go manic and wide.

"Savras's balls... Thavius Kreeg, the savior of Elturel betraying his city and plotting the downfall of Baldur's Gate with the Vanthampurs. By the gods, this can't actually be happening..."

He frantically redoubles his search and gestures downstairs towards Jules and casts Message.

"Jules! Keep an eye out for a ... box or artifact of some kind. It may be a key to preventing the Vanthampurs from turning Baldur's Gate into a smoldering crater like Elturel. You may reply to this message."

Bruno can sense the Rogue wink and grin at his message.

"The box you seek is in the cellar. I can take you down there to it if you will allow me."

Mortlock scoffs, "You will take us into a trap, no doubt. We don't trust you, Brother." (looking at the party) "He will say anything to preserve his life"

"Very well - but you will accompany us to the cellar, and take us to the artifact. If anyone gets in our way, or if you try anything, I will spill your intestines onto the floor"

Meanwhile, Bruno finishes searching the room - he finds a locked chest, to which the key is found on Thurstwell. The locked chest is opened and contains: wrinkled garments, High qualitity Paper and Ink.. It also holds an unlocked wooden coffer containing 73 gp, 120 sp, and a Potion of Healing and a black-covered tome titled Apocalypto—a poetic prophecy by an unknown author envisioning the end of the multiverse

What does Dartan, Hippee, Bartok and Bruno do?

Meanwhile downstairs:

The rogue steps into the gallery with the bottles of wine from his pack in each hand,

"you gents fancy a drink? Nobody's going to say to not go upstairs to your patron but you might find it safer down here. And, we might want to have a talk about your loyalties and future employment seeing as those that were paying you have sloughed off their mortal coil, as it were."

The rogue pulls the cork of one of the bottles with his teeth and spits it out on the floor; takes a swig from the bottle and offers it to the nearest guard with a twinkle in his eye and a sly smirk. (Persuasion rolled d20=6+6=12)

** Failed to Persuade **

"You are one of the intruders! What do you mean, they have sloughed off their mortal coil? What have you done?!" The four guards draw their swords

"You drop your weapons and the bottle"

What does the rogue do?

10 minutes pass

Time: 1:50 PM

Date: Fourthday , 24 , Tarsakh