Trollopulous Adjusted Session 124 (Machodor #75): Crawling with Carrion Crawlers

a young O'Brien clan member

             

Introduction

Time once again to visit the halfling steading, the party find a truly unique situation and make out with a score.

Timekeeping

This session began on July 24th, 2025, with the player characters adventuring until July 25th. Downtime for these characters begins the 26th.

Player Characters Present

Sever the Wrathful (Level 9 Pegasus Corps Ranger of Machodor, wielder of Were'shbane and wearer of the Girdle of Cloud Giant Strength, rider of Mustang) 

with henchmen and Poindexter (M5) and Thomas (C6)

Giuseppe (Level 8 Paladin of Rome, Brovenloft, wielder of the Dragonslayer and the Shield of Protection from Missiles, rider of Bonecrusher)

with henchmen Bishoy (F6) Tawadros (F6) 

Marty O'Tool (Level 5 Cleric, wielder of the Mace of Saint Patrick)

Louie (Level 1 Illusionist of Machodor)

Downtime

The individual player characters completed their business (getting Raised from the Dead in the case of Sever) and met at the Halfling Steading.

Session Report

under the halfling steading

They were greeted by Cormac O'Brien, the clan leader. He informed them that his men had kept a close eye on the barrier they had thrown up to prevent access to the stairs that led down into the Cavern of Ithaqua far below; but, he admitted sheepishly, a squad of six halflings had failed to show up to their post and were now nowhere to be found.

They players noted this and set off down the stairs. First they checked in with the guards near room (2), who had were actually not very close the where the barrier was between (26) and (27). The halflings informed the party that they had fallen back to this area gradually over the last few weeks. It became clear that the proximity to the entrance to the Cavern of Ithaqua was too much for them.

From here they explored and found the pool in area (22), noting the underwater passage that went to the east from there and 4 spigots from which water poured into the pool.

Explored and found a pad locked area (with the lock open) in (24), went through it and up the corridor where they found a way to turn off the spigots, which they did, with an idea that the water would running of of the pool in (22) and allow them an easier time of travelling out of the shoot at it's bottom.

Next they found the wine cellar (25) and the missing six halflings. It was clear that they had skipped guard duty to get plastered here with the giant strength wine that was stored here (very strong wine that is, not wine that gives you giant strength, just to be clear. They returned the drunk halflings to Cormac, along with the very high quality wine they found--with warning not to drink it.

Giving the pool time to empty, they crossed to the south western section of the underground area to check it out, finding it largely abandoned prison cells and other giant facilities (9 &12-16). The latter included a torture chamber (15). Two Iron Maiden's stood flanking other torture machinery, and when Marty O'Tool investigated one, it sprang open. Something was inside! Another something sprang out at Tawadros from the other one. 

Combat #1: 2 Ghasts

Rounds: 2

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: Marty was delighted to be jumped by the undead creature, and hit him with his Mace. A quick re-check of how the Mace of Disruption worked and he had destroyed the thing, while the rest of the party took care of the other one.

In area (16) they found a number of dwarf bodies had been hack to bits, their legs still clapped in irons. It looked as though when the giants moved out they had decided these slaves were too much trouble to bring with them. In "restocking" this room I considered whether the influence of the nearby altar to Ithaqua may have brought some evil out of these poor dwarves, but the dice ruled differently and nothing happened when the party checked them over.

Having cleared out evert other place they knew of, the party was ready to take the plunge and crawl through the now empty cistern into area (23).

They ground the area literally covered in piles of bleached white bones. It was impossible to move without shuffling through the bones, as they got out of the river and formed up there was a tell-tall clink of coins. A search found some copper pieces, and as they walked through the next area another search turned up some jewellery. As far as the players were concerned, this was great! The only problem was it required an entire turn to search a 10' square section of cave floor, even with the help of Were'shbane's detection abilities, but the return on investment looked like it might be worth while. They kept it up until they neared a sink hole in the northern most section of the cavern. 

Combat #2: 3 Carrion Crawlers

Rounds: 4

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: The party had fortunately placed themselves so that only the front rank were in immediate danger. Giuseppe succumbed to a paralysing feeler after the battle had been largely won.

At the pace they were searching Giuseppe recovered before they needed to move far, and then the big payoffs started happening. Armour, weapons, a shield, and a rod of some kind, along with coins, gems and more jewellery. It was a new kind of fun, thanks Gary.

Could be a lot of treasure or a lot of nothing

It wasn't all plain sailing in the cavern picking up loot though.

Combat #3-5: More Carrion Crawlers

Rounds: 8

Result: Party Victories

Highlights: Any given encounter could have resulted in disaster but fortunately the party were never surprised (Sever's Ranger bonus once again) and so were able to beat down the monsters before they could become a serious threat.

When Louie found a magic blue ring--with stylised little fish marked on it--he impulsively put it on and, deciding it was a ring of water breathing, declared he would stick his head in the water and take a big breath in. It was instead a Ring of Swimming.

Finally with the last area searched the party found themselves opposite a sinkhole in the south west of the cavern; could there be more treasure in there. No, but there was this thing!

One ugly mother...

Combat #6: Giant Mother Carrion Crawler

Rounds: 4

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: This monster was three times the size of a normal Carrion Crawler, had three times as many Paralysing tentacles that were so long they interfered with blows aimed at its body. Even when "dead" it still thrashed about and paralysed Sever. 

The party gathered themselves for a rest and by the time they had their collective breath back, the paralysed had also recovered. They returned via the same route and reported back to a worried Cormac, "You'se been gone for hours!"

Session Statistics: 

Wilderness travel:  0 Miles
Downtime begins on: 26/July
Combats: 6
Rooms mapped: 11
Combat rounds: 18
Losses: Louie almost drowned, but he'll get better after a week of rest.

Treasure & Items

366 cp, 389 sp, 53 ep, 328 gp, 12 pp

3 Jewellery: 1900 gp

7 Gems:  1804 gp

Exceptional Wine: 7,600gp

Aegis of the Dire Wolf 1200xp

Rod of Cancellation 10,000xp 

Potion of Healing 200xp

Potion of Super-Heroism 450xp 

Potion of Gaseous Form 300 xp 

Ring of Swimming 1,000 xp 

12 arrows+1 240xp

Broadsword+1 400xp 

Hammer+2 650xp

Platemail+2 1,750 

Scalemail+2 1,100xp 

Scroll of Protection from Petrification 2,000xp

8 Greater Identification spells cast 4,800 (Identification costs have gone up to 600 gold machos, times are getting tougher in Minas Mandalf)

Monsters

2 Ghasts 580 xp

8 Carrion Crawlers 5,200xp

1 Giant Mother Carrion Crawler 1,980xp

39,170 XP &  GP 16,920 Assignment

Sever (E) 7,795 xp & 2,820 gp 

and Poindexter (E) 3,897 xp & 1,410 gp

and Thomas (E)  3,897 xp & 1,410 gp

Giueseppe (E) 7,795 xp & 2,820 gp 

and Tawardros (E) 3,897 xp & 1,410 gp

and Bishoy (E) 3,897 xp & 1,410 gp

Marty O'Tool (E) 7,795 xp & 2,820 gp 

Louie (E) 7,795 xp & 2,820 gp 

Graveyard

Sever the Wrathful (Ranger level 9), Killed by two pains in the Annis in session #122. RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Anri (Henchman Magic-User level 4), found dead with a ghastly chest wound in the Ice Castle, with her heart missing she was unable to be revived, in downtime after session #122 

Symeon (Henchman Cleric level 2), Only strong enough to wear studded leather, he was torn to shreds by Troglodytes in session #121

Paul (Henchman Paladin level 3) Effected by the Imprisonment spell touch attack from a Styx Devil in session #117. Might not be dead, but is definitely at least six feet under for all intents and purposes.

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 6) killed by a poison needle trap in session #114 RAISED FROM THE DEAD (with a roll of 94!)

Solaire the Fallen (Henchman Fighter (paladin) level 3) killed by Stone Giants acting as catapults in session #114

Paul (Henchman Paladin level 1), reduced to 0 hit points by white dragon breath when climbing down a rope ladder in session #108. Killed not by the fall; but by the sudden stop at the bottom. RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Ignatius the Smiter (Cleric level 1), horrifically mutilated and killed by double hit from a Shoggoth in session #106

Domby (Henchman with Dex 5), double surprised and turned into a pin cushion in session #87

Luke (Half elf Fighter/Cleric level 1), tragically killed by a normal hydra while trying to cauterise one of its neck stumps in session  #86

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 3),  killed by a hydra bite in session  #86 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Pleasance (Footman level 0), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Siegward (Henchman Fighter level 1), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Tawadros (Henchman Fighter level 4),  killed by a phase spider bite in session #81 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Patria (Footman level 0), killed by a two headed snake bite in session #81

Deltacron (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 1/1), threw his last flask of oil at, and was level drained to death by, a Vampire in session #76

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), wrong place, wrong time; killed by Sever the Ranger in session #72 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), killed again by the toxic gas of an Achaierai in session #72

Red (Paladin Level 1), always popular with the ladies, he was eaten up by a female Roc in the Pizza Slice of Doom during session #67

Jacques Ocular (Magic User level 1), a fat green worm burrowed into his head and turned him into a Son Of Kyuss in Brovenloft in Session #43

Pino (Dwarf Footman level 0), Killed by a Frost Giant axe in the head in session #39

Paro (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 2/2)  Killed by Winter Wolves and frozen in session #39

Zabib (1/2 Elf Fighter/Magic User level 1/1), Killed by Frost Giant rocks in downtime prior to session #39

Trollopulous Adjusted Session 121 (Machodor #72): Bargash meets Slargash

          

Follow along on the map for session #72

Introduction

This week a greatly reduced party sets off to finish some business at the Halfling Steading.

Timekeeping

This session began on July 3rd, 2025, with the player characters adventuring until July 5th. Downtime for these characters begins the next day.

Player Characters Present

Sever the Wrathful (Level 9 Pegasus Corps Ranger of Machodor, wielder of Were'shbane and wearer of the Girdle of Cloud Giant Strength, rider of Mustang) 

with henchmen Rabbit (F4/MU3/T4) and Poindexter (M5) and Thomas (C6)

Mathias Steelvien (Level 4 Fighter of Saint Raul)

with henchmen Rhoikos (M4) Symeon (C2)

Gurt the Green (Level 6 Paladin of Machodor, wielder of the Liberator, bearer of the Fabled Ice Jewel of Frigia, rider of Artax) 

with henchmen Anri (M4) and Cedric (C3)

Downtime

After the successful battle against the forces of the Master of Winter, Giuseppe set off from the Ice Castle with his troops and henchmen to take the prisoners and freed thralls--some of whom may have been from Gimmelwald--back to that troubled Bandit Mountains town. It turned out not to be as easy as he suspected. More details here.

Session Report

After a swift journey from the ice castle the party arrived a the halfling stead to find a group of halfligns running across the open ground from the nearby light forest. They were running for good reason as behind them were a dozen hungry looking ogres!

Combat #1: 12 Ogres

Rounds: 2

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: Poindexter's perfectly aimed fireball did for the majority of the Ogres.

The party swept in and saved the halflings and were given a heroes welcome in the steading.

They spent the night and in the morning went down into he basement. The first place they checked was the cell block were they had left the Orc Bargash, but before dealing with him, curiosity has them examine the cell they had not yet opened. It was a trap!

Combat #2: 3 Skeletons

Rounds: 1

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: Not really sure what Gygax was going for with this "trap" encounter, I guess it was guaranteed to make some noise and alert any guards, but that was no issue to this party.

Sever grabbed Bargash who began to again talk up his ability to the negotiate with the leader of the orcs in this place, his brother Slargash. Sever went along with this but it is unclear what his intentions were in accord with his prisoner's.

Rabbit was made Invisible and he went forward to scout the Orc's position, Poindexter used this information to target them from way across the cavern. The rest of the party backed up the corridor with their fingers in their ears, staging near a blocked off door--that was giving them an unsettling feeling of what might be beyond. Gurt found a distinct whiff of evil from that direction.

Combat #3: 44 Orcs remnants

Rounds: 2

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: For the second time in a few weeks Poindexter's perfectly aimed fireball did for the majority of the orcs, only the leader, Slargash, survived the impact. 

Slargash came staggering out, holding a sword in one hand and a crossbow in the other. Knowing that the orcs used poisoned bolts, Sever took no chances, he grabbed a hold of Bargash and used him as a shield. The orc caught a bolt in the backside and was then thrown unceremoniously at his wounded brother with the force of a catapult. And it was over.

The orcs had camped in the east section of the cave behind two barriers, near where there were two passages north, they had little of value and even less survived the fireball, but the PCs were happy to find some gems on Slargash.

They moved forward and searched the area thoroughly.

Sever spotted something moving along the wall towards him, saving the party from being surprised for 3 segments! The creatures that occupied the area to the north were coming to see what all the commotion was.

I should have shared this map in the session

Combat #4: Troglodyte clan

Rounds: 3

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: The creatures were making their way down the narrow connections between the two sections of cavern. Most of the party took up a position to deal with the ones coming from the north, but only Matthias Steel vein and Symeon the cleric moved to hold the western entrance to the orcish area.

A Web spell trapped many of the Trogs, I generally only allow a save for Web if there is some possible place a target could escape to that isn't covered in the stick fibres; in this case they were all in a narrow channel that was easy for the spell to fill from top to bottom. Sever and co killed the first few to make it through before the Web hit, but a dozen more--plus the leader--came in from the west and killed Symeon right off the bat, leaving Mathias hungry for vengeance. 

I've been learning recently that since I've got maps in the module, I should take advantage of them to quickly augment the ToTM positioning. This is a tricky judgement call though, as it is so easy to override the vivid images only pure ToTM can achieve. Hopefully I'll do better as we keep playing.

North of the troglodyte lair was another large chamber to the west. Large leathery creatures slithered out to greet them.

Encounter #1: 6 Giant Subterranean Lizards

Rounds: N/A

Result: Party Parlayed

Highlights: Sever used Speak with Animals and got a very positive response when he offered the creatures the mass of dead enemies behind them.

The lizards did their best of accommodate the Ranger's questions and indicated a large chamber existed at the other end of a subterranean river. They warned of "eaters of the dead" that lived there and the players took this on board.

The party fell back to the entrance area and discussed what to do next. They decided to check on the location where they had had the "bad feeling". The room was typical of the other barracks and or prison cells they had seen, except for the new tunnel dug into the southern wall. It was from there that the cool wind and feeling of evil emanated.

Gurt was determined that the statue was not to be left undisturbed, but it was only when there was a successful Dispel Magic from Poindexter that they were able to topple it from its altar. Sever placed a sack over its head while Gurt wailed on it. Then something odd happened, a brooch--or scarab--appeared from within the statue, coming right out of its back. The thing was of a similar size and shape to the amulet that Sever had, only this one radiated magic.

Session Statistics: 

Wilderness travel: 36 Miles

Downtime begins on: 06/July
Combats: 4
Rooms mapped: 6
Combat rounds: 8
Killed: 1 Henchman, Symeon.

Treasure & Items

8043cp 40

6023sp 301

3 Rings with gems 1gp

119gp

15 gems: 3820gp 

3 jewellery: 4250gp

Scarab of Insanity (Identification costs 450gp) 1500 xp

Monsters

11 Ogres 2220xp

1 Ogre Leader 465xp

3 Skeletons 66xp

44 Orcs (including Bargash and Slargash) 638xp

Troglodytes: 20 Males , 13 females, 7 Young 1560xp

14,980 XP &  8081 GP  Assignment

Sever (E) 2305 XP & 1243 GP

and Poindexter (E) 1152 XP & 621 GP

and Rabbit (E) 1152 XP & 621 GP

and Thomas (E) 1152 XP & 621 GP

Steelvien (E) 2305 XP & 1243 GP

and Rhoikos (E) 1152 XP & 621 GP

and Symeon (DNF) 0 XP & 0 GP

Gurt the Green (E) 2305 XP & 1243 GP

and Anri (E) 1152 XP & 621 GP

and Cedric (E) 1152 XP & 621 GP

Graveyard

Symeon (Henchman Cleric level 2), Only strong enough to wear studded leather, he was torn to shreds by Troglodytes in session #121

Paul (Henchman Paladin level 3) Effected by the Imprisonment spell touch attack from a Styx Devil in session #117. Might not be dead, but is definitely at least six feet under for all intents and purposes.

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 6) killed by a poison needle trap in session #114 RAISED FROM THE DEAD (with a roll of 94!)

Solaire the Fallen (Henchman Fighter (paladin) level 3) killed by Stone Giants acting as catapults in session #114

Paul (Henchman Paladin level 1), reduced to 0 hit points by white dragon breath when climbing down a rope ladder in session #108. Killed not by the fall; but by the sudden stop at the bottom. RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Ignatius the Smiter (Cleric level 1), horrifically mutilated and killed by double hit from a Shoggoth in session #106

Domby (Henchman with Dex 5), double surprised and turned into a pin cushion in session #87

Luke (Half elf Fighter/Cleric level 1), tragically killed by a normal hydra while trying to cauterise one of its neck stumps in session  #86

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 3),  killed by a hydra bite in session  #86 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Pleasance (Footman level 0), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Siegward (Henchman Fighter level 1), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Tawadros (Henchman Fighter level 4),  killed by a phase spider bite in session #81 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Patria (Footman level 0), killed by a two headed snake bite in session #81

Deltacron (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 1/1), threw his last flask of oil at, and was level drained to death by, a Vampire in session #76

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), wrong place, wrong time; killed by Sever the Ranger in session #72 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), killed again by the toxic gas of an Achaierai in session #72

Red (Paladin Level 1), always popular with the ladies, he was eaten up by a female Roc in the Pizza Slice of Doom during session #67

Jacques Ocular (Magic User level 1), a fat green worm burrowed into his head and turned him into a Son Of Kyuss in Brovenloft in Session #43

Pino (Dwarf Footman level 0), Killed by a Frost Giant axe in the head in session #39

Paro (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 2/2)  Killed by Winter Wolves and frozen in session #39

Zabib (1/2 Elf Fighter/Magic User level 1/1), Killed by Frost Giant rocks in downtime prior to session #39

Trollopulous Adjusted Session 119 (Machodor #70): Beneath the Steading

Today's map

    

Introduction

The downtime take over of the Hill Giant Steading by a clan of halflings continues to draw attention from the players. This module is good to the last drop!

Timekeeping

This session began on June 19th, 2025, with the player characters adventuring until June 20th. Downtime for these characters begins the next day.

Player Characters Present

Sever the Wrathful (Level 9 Pegasus Corps Ranger of Machodor, wielder of Were'shbane and wearer of the Girdle of Cloud Giant Strength, rider of Mustang) 

with henchmen Rabbit (FMT 3/3/4) Thomas (C3) and Poindexter (M5)

Bumblebore  (Level 5 Magic User of Machodor, wielder of the Wand of Paralysation) and Firedrake Familiar O'Malfoy

Savant (Level 1 Magic-User) 

Julius L'Orange  (Level 1 Fighter of Machodor)

Downtime

A letter from the Hill Giant Halfling Steading reached the Ice Castle.

From the hand of Cormac O’Brien, Chief of Clan O’Brien

Written this 17th day of June

Honoured Sever the Hatful,

The upper steading stands secure, its halls cleared by our brave kin at great cost. Yet, a shadow lingers beneath. This past week, our scouts have uncovered a vast warren of orcs dwelling in the depths below, their numbers far greater than we can face alone; and I sense even greater evil may be present among them. Until your response arrives, we hold the upper steading, but the tunnel beckons with danger. I seek your wisdom and strength.

By the old gods, I await your counsel.

Cormac O’Brien

Session Report

Intrigued and a little alarmed by this letter, the players decided to investigate, riding hard through the day to arrive just before dusk. They were welcomed as heroes, particularly Sever, although the halflings were surprised to find that Lucky O'Brien was not among their number (the party did not enlighten them  as to why). They described to Sever that in an initial foray into the basement they had spotted orcs ready with crossbows. They retreated and had not gone back down the stairs to investigate since. Forewarned, the party moved in for the kill.

Combat #1: Orcs

Rounds: 6

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: Having first been scouted out silently, the orcs make-shift fortification slowed down the fight considerably, but the result was a fairly easy victory.

Savant cast Sleep and halved the number of opponents, while Sever and Julius battled on the front line. This was very dangerous work for Julius, but just another day at the office for the Ranger. The others kept an eye out on the eastern exit, and were rewarded by spotting reinforcements from that direction. Well place Magic Missiles halved their number, taking out a crossbowman with a poisoned quarrel before he could shoot, and then Rabbit chased down the remainder as they fled back the way they came.

When the henchman reported back, the party retraced his steps and explored the corridor beyond, which soon turner to the north east, past the next turn they could hear water, and as that tracked with what they knew about the place, and noting that one wall here had seen recent work, they returned to room (1). Rabbit noted the difference in texture in the walls here, a subsequent search found a secret door which lead into the prison area (3). In the first cell (I) was a sleeping bugbear, snoring loudly, he was completely out it from drinking giant wine. Quietly they advanced and checked the other cells; cell (II) held a human prisoner, cell (III) an elf chained to the wall, cell (IV) just skeletons, and cell (V) contained 5 orcs. Quite a bit happened in rapid succession, Julius was keen to test the wine bottle and found that, just like the bugbear, he could not stop himself from over indulging; he became greatly intoxicated and remained so for the rest of the session. 

DMG p82

Sever interrogated the orcs, and found their spokes-orc, one Bargash, to have a convincing story of being locked up in here for being the brother of the orc leader of a rebellion. He told of how the orcs had taken advantage of the sudden relaxation of security in the wake of the party's first venture into the steading, but things had gone quiet since he was captured. Meanwhile Bumblebore engaged with the elf, using Knock to free him, and with a very good reaction roll to boot, the elf, named Gilthaniel, offered his service for 1 year in exchange for this kindness. Bumblebore was astounded later at the elf's abilities.

The conversation with the orcs over, Bargash's life hung by a thread, would a temporary alliance serve the party's interests more than the typical treatment they meted out to orcs? Yes, by a whisker, and on this turned much of the rest of the session. For a soon as he left the cell block, Bargash saw the walls beyond and exclaimed, "I don't remember that being there!" this became his catch phrase as he inadvertently allowed the players to find all the hidden areas that had been sealed off by stone giants in an attempt to hide their doings.

With the safety of the steading above so close, they now sent back Savant, the human prisoner Barry the engineer, and Gilthaniel, to stay with the halflings before continuing on.

Now knowing what to look for, they found more secret doors and room (2). The place was trashed, and the culprits were not hard to find.

Combat #2: 2 Carnivorous Apes

Rounds: 2

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: Sever tried his go to spell, Speak with Animals, but the monsters won initiative and ruined his spell by trying to rip his arms off. Sever returned the favour while his henchmen held back Julius who was "Shuure" he could show those monkeys a thing or two.

A thorough search found a lose stone in the floor, and inside was the treasure left behind by the previous owner. Happy at the unexpected haul, Sever did a quick head count. Where was Bargash? He had used the confusion to escape! There was no sign of the orc, but only one way he could have gone. Sever tracked him through 26 & 27 to a very unusual sight, a spiral stair hewn right into the rock, it went down and down; part way he found the body of the hill giant overseer who's room they had just tossed--killed by a solid blow from a blunt weapon. Sever guessed there had been some sort of falling out between this giant and the Cloud Giant. Finally the stair broke through into the ceiling of a vast frozen cavern. The giants had escaped by digging right down to the Cavern of Ithaqua below! What they had done then was a mystery, it was a long drop to the ice covered ground below. Bargash stood nearby, frozen in fear, and the ranger simply picked him up and carried him back to his cell.

That rarest of creatures, an Orc Sever let live.

Now for the first time Sever used Were'shbane's ability of Clairaudience to rapidly explore through the former bugbear barracks of rooms (4-8), though it yielded only a gold piece here and there, left behind by the creatures before they had risen to take over the steading above.

Next they explored south of room (8). Finding a big group of 20 or so orcs on the other side of a rock barrier, they laboriously (and ingeniously, using Invisibility and Silence 15' Radius) cleared the way for Bumblebore to cast Fireball; from what he judged to be a safe distance. He ignored a bad feeling of evil coming from the south and let loose...

His judgement was "perfect", only a few singed hairs.

The sounds of death and destruction reverberated back down the corridor, but there were still sounds of orcs, and other things alive, down there. These would have to keep for another time.

Session Statistics: 

Wilderness travel: 36 Miles

Combats: 3

Rooms mapped: 19

Combat rounds: 9

Treasure & Items
5404gp
9 Gems 10,550gp

Jug with the equivalent volume of 4 Potions of Water Breathing 1600xp

15,954gp, 17,550xp

Monsters

67 Orcs 1,340 xp

1 Bugbear 0 xp

2  Troglodytes 120xp

2 Carnivorous Apes 715xp

19,729 XP &  15,954 GP  Assignment

Sever (E) 4384 XP & 3545 GP

 and Poindexter (E) 2192 XP & 1773 GP

 and Thomas (E) 2192 XP & 1773 GP

 and Rabbit (E) 2192 XP & 1773 GP

Bumblebore (E*) 4384 XP & 3545 GP

Savant** (E) 95 XP & 1 GP

Julius L'Orange (E) 4384 XP & 3545 GP

* would have been S if he had passed up the Fireball chance.

** missed the bulk of the haul sadly for him.

Graveyard

Paul (Henchman Paladin level 3) Effected by the Imprisonment spell touch attack from a Styx Devil in session #117. Might not be dead, but is definitely at least six feet under for all intents and purposes.

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 6) killed by a poison needle trap in session #114 RAISED FROM THE DEAD (with a roll of 94!)

Solaire the Fallen (Henchman Fighter (paladin) level 3) killed by Stone Giants acting as catapults in session #114

Paul (Henchman Paladin level 1), reduced to 0 hit points by white dragon breath when climbing down a rope ladder in session #108. Killed not by the fall; but by the sudden stop at the bottom. RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Ignatius the Smiter (Cleric level 1), horrifically mutilated and killed by double hit from a Shoggoth in session #106

Domby (Henchman with Dex 5), double surprised and turned into a pin cushion in session #87

Luke (Half elf Fighter/Cleric level 1), tragically killed by a normal hydra while trying to cauterise one of its neck stumps in session  #86

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 3),  killed by a hydra bite in session  #86 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Pleasance (Footman level 0), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Siegward (Henchman Fighter level 1), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Tawadros (Henchman Fighter level 4),  killed by a phase spider bite in session #81 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Patria (Footman level 0), killed by a two headed snake bite in session #81

Deltacron (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 1/1), threw his last flask of oil at, and was level drained to death by, a Vampire in session #76

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), wrong place, wrong time; killed by Sever the Ranger in session #72 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), killed again by the toxic gas of an Achaierai in session #72

Red (Paladin Level 1), always popular with the ladies, he was eaten up by a female Roc in the Pizza Slice of Doom during session #67

Jacques Ocular (Magic User level 1), a fat green worm burrowed into his head and turned him into a Son Of Kyuss in Brovenloft in Session #43

Pino (Dwarf Footman level 0), Killed by a Frost Giant axe in the head in session #39

Paro (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 2/2)  Killed by Winter Wolves and frozen in session #39

Zabib (1/2 Elf Fighter/Magic User level 1/1), Killed by Frost Giant rocks in downtime prior to session #39

Trollopulous Adjusted Session 115 (Machodor #66): Cashing in at the Steading

    

 

The big score

Introduction

This week I decided the giants weren't going to sit back and take it any more, and so put them into a more active defence posture, it didn't work out so well for them.

Timekeeping

This session began on May 22nd, 2025, with the player characters adventuring until May 25th. Downtime for these characters begins the next day.

Player Characters Present

Sever the Wrathful (Level 8 Pegasus Corps Ranger of Machodor, wielder of Were'shbane and wearer of the Girdle of Cloud Giant Strength, rider of Mustang) 

with henchmen Paul (P1) and Poindexter (M3)

Giuseppe (Level 7 Paladin of Rome, Brovenloft, wielder of the Dragonslayer and the Shield of Protection from Missiles, rider of Bonecrusher) 

with henchmen Bishoy and Tawadros (F5) and Rhoikos (M2)

Deadeye Donny (Level 4 Monk of Machodor)

Marty O'Tool (Level 2 Irish Cleric from Brovenloft, wielder of the Mace of St Patrick)

Downtime

In the aftermath of last session the wolves that Sever had persuaded to betray the giants had charged off in pursuit of escaping orcs. By the time Sever caught up with them again at the waterfall that was their de facto lair, there were only 9 of the 14 left. A Speak with Animals spell provided this explanation, "Bad-whip-giant find us in forest, he kill one. Three obey and follow him, the rest follow me back to you. You better than giant."

The remaining wolves and the Ranger's henchmen kept the steading under watch, there were no further attempts by orcs, or anything else, to escape. But mid week there was a change of tactics by the giants. Four groups of five giants emerged, each carrying rocks and weapons, and formed a diamond-shaped perimeter. They appeared quite particular about their formation, positioned 200 yards apart, ready for ranged combat, able to cover each other to counter aerial or ground assaults. They worked in shifts, sometimes only three groups came out, sometimes four. It was clear they had a morning shift and an afternoon shift, and at other times retired to eat in the steading.

Session Report

The players marched out of the ice castle and brought their dwarf unit and ballista with them, along with the human footman of Sever's Captain Falcon and some heavy riders under Giuseppe. Over a two day period they methodically made their way to the vicinity of the forest to the north east of the steading, then created a solid defensive position at the forest's edge from which to strike the giants; building it up between shifts so as to not be observed. There were a couple of fun random encounters of gargoyles and poison snakes, but the players were able to negate any threat they posed.

Closer observation showed that each squad was led by a Stone Giant, with a fully grown Hill Giant supported by three hill giant teenagers. These latter were excitedly throwing rocks to each other and occasionally at the stone giant when he wasn't looking. The stone giant always managed to catch them and thrown them back to the amusement of all. Suddenly the party was feeling conflicted about what they planned to do to these guys. In one group the hill giant held a whip and had three dire wolves and this certainly steeled Sever's resolve to kill them.

Combat #1: 4 Giants' Squads

Rounds: 5 with 2 surprise segments for Sever

Result: Party Victory, one enemy squad escaped.

Highlights: Sever and Rabbit took on one group and got surprise. Giuseppe led the conventional assault and his choice to bring his heavy riders with him spread the damage from incoming rocks significantly.  Donny reached the 4th round of a combat and had no-one to hit with his extra attack (being a 4th level monk). Marty O'Tool used Bless on the troops and then hunkered down for the duration of the fight. This combined with Prayer was a big force multiplier.

A stone giant and some teenagers were the only survivors of the battle and they fled into the steading. The party moved inside the palisade and prepared to go in after them. After clearing the first boulder trap at the entrance, Sever had his henchman Thomas cast Find Traps, which is really one of the most OP spells a cleric gets—when used right. With it and the fact that they had mapped this first area, they would be able to get to the stairs with little trouble. A teenager hill giant with a spear had other ideas.

 

Combat #2: One hold out Hill Giant Teenager

Rounds: 2 (both tied initiative) 

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: Deftly avoiding the rock trap, Giuseppe and Sever cornered the defender in room 9. The brave hill giant youngster gave his all so the others had time to get away.

The party's upper level route

The party kept on and passed the secret doorway—the secret door, dismantled last session, remained where they had left it it leaning against a wall; its handle with the poison dart trap glowed at them as they passed. Down the stairs and to the left, it was clear that this underground structure had been created by someone other than hill giants. The stone work was fancy and the ceilings were buttressed every ten feet. There was a rock trap there at the base of the stairs that Sever set off deliberately, which he was pleased about until he proceeded to set off a trap in the next section of floor (by deliberately crushing it with a rock) that activated a double ballista concealed at the other end of the corridor. Giuseppe's shield vs missiles came in handy there, and it would not be the only time today. 

The corridor went north, then west and spilled out into a very large room. As they entered the room, they spied a gleam at the western end; it looked like a spilled coffer of gems and jewellery. They congratulated themselves on not investigating this "obvious trap", and moved south to examine a heavy set of bars blocking the way out of room 29. These bars promptly opened and let out some hangry manticores. To make matters worse, portcullises fell down in their wake to block both exits to the room.

          Combat #3: 4 Crazed Manticores

Rounds: 4 

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: This was a crazy fight in more ways that one. The creatures remained airborne and launched a volley of tail spikes (24 in all) at the party, it was a free for all and many found the armour and shield of Giuseppe—and were deflected.

As it was clear the monsters were going to press the ranged attacks from the air, Donny fished out a Potion of Flying for Sever to use to go up after them. Next round the crazed creatures targeted all their 24 spikes at one player; Donny. When his number came up I felt a little bad, but it was clearly the best tactic to concentrate fire, and with this roll I abducted that they chose an obviously unarmoured foe. However, though the Monk may have been unarmoured, he was far from defenceless; his special monk deflection ability came into play. Out of 24 shots 15 would have hit, and of these he blocked 8. The remaining 7d6 damage left him with 7 hit points to spare!

The party's lower level route

Sever flew up the engage the monsters; and his henchman Thomas cast Command on one of them, commanding it to 'Sleep'. It failed its save and fell to the ground, causing 3d6 falling damage, but also waking it back up. Next round the ground based players hammered away at this one and the thing once more chose to hit Donny, and got him with a bite. Sever struck one so forcefully it was unable to keep flying and so it also fell in a heap, shook itself off and looked for payback.

Now it was time for round 4, and what a round it would be. Having been cruelly prevented from having his first extra melee attack during the giant fight, Donny was not about to miss out this time. He hit, and hit well, really well. I grabbed the PHB and checked my combat wheel to be sure; yes, he had stunned the manticore (probably saving his own life in the process). He then proceeded to roll 02 for the chance to kill! I couldn't believe it, he needed 4% or less, the monk had straight up killed the thing (given the human head this seemed reasonable to me). Not yet done, with his extra attack the monk finished off the other fallen Manticore, while Sever got the last one (note that various arrows and Magic Missiles has been pouring in from henchman all along).  What a fight.

With the last gasp of the Find Traps spell the PCs spotted room 31 beyond room 30, and it contained 7 chests; two of these glowed for a second and then the spell expired. Rabbit and Donny's Find & Remove Traps skills were on fire today and they managed to avoid some nasty tricks including a second trap inside the first one. The loot in the chests was merely adequate, was this the real treasure room? With hit points and spell resources running low, the players decided to pull out and regroup with what loot they had. Sever impulsively tested the one potion in the treasure pile, and discovered it was a potion of Poison (he made his save, but that could have been a very expensive failure! As you'll see below in the treasure section). 

On the way out Giuseppe remembered to try and dismantle the double ballista and take it with them. As this was right in front of the secret door to the real treasure room (33), I allowed Rabbit a chance to discover it, and with a result of a 2 he found it. The pit trap beyond the secret door gave Sever another brush with death, but fortunately he set it off without anyone else stumbling into it, and managed to survive. There was much loot to be had in the room beyond, so much that they need a veritable bucket brigade of troops to get it all out. Nothing was game to stop them doing so.

Session Statistics: 

Wilderness travel: 36 Miles

Combats: 3

Combat rounds: 11 

Treasure & Items

13,000cp 

27,300sp 

7,140ep 

27 Copper Ingots worth 360gp

11 Ivory Tusks 11,000gp

980 cheap gems 980gp

Potion of Poison (smashed by Sever) 0XP

23,840gp

4,139pp 

Lots of Gems worth 18,600gp

Jewellery worth 8,500gp

Cask with items of some kind inside (to be investigated in downtime)

6 Magic Arrows 300xp

Magic Spear/Lance +2 2000xp 

Two magic swords with magic sheaths 3300xp

Identify Costs 2700gp

Monsters

3 Stone Giants 7,430xp

4 Hill Giants 7,100xp

9 Hill Giant Teenagers 7,290xp

4 Manticores 3,572xp

120,335 XP &  89,343 GP  Assignment

Sever (E+) 20,056 XP & 14,441 GP

 and Rabbit (E) 10,028 XP & 7,220 GP

 and Thomas (E) 10,028 XP & 7,220 GP

 and Poindexter  (E) 10,028 XP & 7,220 GP

Giuseppe (E) 20,056 XP & 14,441 GP

  and Steelvein (E) 10,028 XP & 7,220 GP

D Donny (E+) 20,056 XP & 14,441 GP

Marty O'Stool (E) 20,056 XP & 14,441 GP

Those of you with keen eyes will have noticed the E+ rating, I just made it up based on some even-better-than-elite performances, I figure they can be used to cancel out a previous S rating. I'm using them just on a trial basis for now.

Graveyard

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 6) killed by a poison needle trap in session #114 RAISED FROM THE DEAD (with a roll of 94!)

Solaire the Fallen (Henchman Fighter (paladin) level 3) killed by Stone Giants acting as catapults in session #114

Paul (Henchman Paladin level 1), reduced to 0 hit points by white dragon breath when climbing down a rope ladder in session #108. Killed not by the fall; but by the sudden stop at the bottom. RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Ignatius the Smiter (Cleric level 1), horrifically mutilated and killed by double hit from a Shoggoth in session #106

Domby (Henchman with Dex 5), double surprised and turned into a pin cushion in session #87

Luke (Half elf Fighter/Cleric level 1), tragically killed by a normal hydra while trying to cauterise one of its neck stumps in session  #86

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 3),  killed by a hydra bite in session  #86 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Pleasance (Footman level 0), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Siegward (Henchman Fighter level 1), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Tawadros (Henchman Fighter level 4),  killed by a phase spider bite in session #81 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Patria (Footman level 0), killed by a two headed snake bite in session #81

Deltacron (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 1/1), threw his last flask of oil at, and was level drained to death by, a Vampire in session #76

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), wrong place, wrong time; killed by Sever the Ranger in session #72 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), killed again by the toxic gas of an Achaierai in session #72

Red (Paladin Level 1), always popular with the ladies, he was eaten up by a female Roc in the Pizza Slice of Doom during session #67

Jacques Ocular (Magic User level 1), a fat green worm burrowed into his head and turned him into a Son Of Kyuss in Brovenloft in Session #43

Pino (Dwarf Footman level 0), Killed by a Frost Giant axe in the head in session #39

Paro (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 2/2)  Killed by Winter Wolves and frozen in session #39

Zabib (1/2 Elf Fighter/Magic User level 1/1), Killed by Frost Giant rocks in downtime prior to session #39

Trollopulous Adjusted Session 114 (Machodor #65): Rocked at the Hill Giant Steading

    

"What can you do?"   "Well, I'm good with rocks"

Timekeeping

This session began on May 15th, 2025, with the player characters adventuring for 2 days until May 16th. Downtime for these characters begins the next day.

Player Characters Present

Sever the Wrathful (Level 8 Pegasus Corps Ranger of Machodor, wielder of Were'shbane and wearer of the Girdle of Cloud Giant Strength, rider of Mustang) 

with henchmen Paul (P1) & Poindexter (M3)

Giuseppe (Level 7 Paladin of Rome, Brovenloft, wielder of the Dragonslayer and the Shield of Protection from Missiles, rider of Bonecrusher) 

with henchmen Bishoy and Tawadros (F5) and Rhoikos (M2)

Sheamus (Level 7 Irish Fighter from Brovenloft, rider of the Rocket Cycle and wielder of the Drewblade) 

with henchman McScales (Lizardman F4)

Gurt the Green (Level 6 Paladin of Machodor, wielder of the Liberator, bearer of the Fabled Ice Jewel of Frigia, rider of Artax) 

with henchmen Solaire (PF3) and Anri (M4) and Cedric (C1)

Downtime

During the week Sever kept up his surveillance on the steading, now with help from the pack of Dire Wolves he had previously talked into abandoning the giants. Having been led by Sever to a nearby waterfall and pool (and former giant fishing hole) which they liked a lot, these creatures were now helping the ranger keep the steading under watch. During the week there were one or two attempts to escape by lowly orcs; but, curiously, no giants were spotted.

Session Report

The giants had in fact been busy, under what leadership the party did not know, but someone had given them advice on how to defend their home with the forces that were still remaining to them. Their strategy was one of traps and ambush.

session map

Knowing the sound of the Rocket Cycle, they kept watch from inside the steading; once they heard it coming they sprang their trap: starting by letting out 20 or so Orc slaves who were too overjoyed to see that they would never reach freedom. From their aerial vantage point the party could only see the orcs making their way south at a trot, so they closed in for the kill.

But 3 Stone Giants were hiding near the gate, ready to throw deadly rocks at the orcs--or anyone else in view. Gurt was the only one to sense the danger, he rode up towards the gate with his henchmen, putting himself--and them--in the firing line. 

Combat #1: Stone Giants

Rounds: 2

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: Stone giants have a massive range they can throw rocks, 30", nowhere in front of them was safe. Once the stones started flying the party laid off the orcs and went after the bigger enemies, however the dire wolves did not heed Sever's call and kept on after the orcs into the nearby forest. Two out of three heavy rocks clattered into Solaire.

One Stone giant fled into an out building, while the others took the brunt of a charge from Giuseppe and the others, but not before landing another rock in a fatal blow to Solaire, the unlucky former paladin and Gurt's henchman. The giants soon paid for this with their lives, but the mood was sombre as Sever tracked the runner into the out buildings (23).

A search found a secret door in a barracks fireplace (24). There was a shaft leading down, disappearing out of sight into what sounded like watery depths below. The players saw this as an elaborate ruse to lead them into danger (it was).

Instead they choose to move into the main building. Here, based on Gary's clever guidance, there were traps galore! First a rock trap pelted the players as they entered. Interestingly, elsewhere in this series Gary gives such traps the same chance to hit and same damage as the monster that set them. Since in this case it was Stone Giants, I based the damage on them.  After the first trap the party suddenly decided to work out who was equipping the +3 Shield obtained last session. Having decided this, they then advanced, but only made it about 20 feet when six spears thrusted out at them from murder holes hidden on either side of the corridor between rooms (8) and (9).

Combat #2a: 6 Bugbears (room 8)

Rounds: 4

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: A scythe trap on the door leading into the bugbear's room caused havoc in the ranks. Sever used his great strength to break the spears thrusting out at him. Once inside the room the players were surprised to find more enemies than just the three with the spears, but the result was never in doubt.

Also inside this room they found that peep holes had been drilled through the walls. They gave the observers a good vantage to both the former wolf pen and the front approach to the steading. 

Without waiting for the others Sever went around through a small dining room (10), survived another rockfall trap, and then burst in on the spear wielders in the arms room next door (9). Instead of bugbears he was facing six ogres.

Combat #2b: 6 Ogres (room 9)

Rounds: 2

Result: Party Victory

Highlights: One of the ogres had just found the 5 Javelins of Lightning that were in this room. He gave Sever a nasty surprise that nearly killed his henchman Thomas. But when the rest of the party joined in the ogres soon went the way of the bugbears.

Wounds were tended and some loot gathered, then they went over the dining room with a fine tooth comb. Rabbit's presence enabled them to easily find a door to the west, concealed behind a hanging manticore hide, but he also found a trap in the door's handle. Saddened, and impatient, after the death of his comrade, and with all hope of Solaire's redemption gone, Gurt rashly tried the handle himself. A poisoned needle shot out, he failed his save and was Dead! Fortunately, he had more comrades who would ensure he had another chance back in Minas Mandalf, perhaps. Confident this was the case the rest of the party searched the landing beyond the dining room and found a jackpot; a map to the steading, along with a note written in hill giant (on a parchment of human skin no less). With these items secured they returned to the Ice Castle without further incident.

Session Statistics: 

Wilderness travel: 36 Miles

Combats: 2

Rooms explored: 7

Combat rounds: 8

Treasure & Items

4000sp

6300gp

8 Gems 100*7, 600*1

Ogre Jewellery 3432gp

4 Javelin's of Lightning 1000xp

Giant Otter Fur worth 2000gp

Monsters

20 Orcs 300 xp

2 Stone Giants 5000 xp

6 Bugbears 1290 xp

6 Ogres 1140 xp

21,962 XP &  13,232 GP  Assignment

Sever (E) 3,878 XP & 2036 GP

 and Rabbit (E) 1,689 XP & 1018  GP

 and Thomas (E) 1,689 XP & 1018  GP

Giuseppe (E) 3,878 XP & 2036 GP

  and Steelvein (E) 1,689 XP & 1018  GP

  and Symeon (E) 1,689 XP & 1018  GP

Shaemus (E) 3,878 XP & 2036 GP

  and McScales (E) 8,474 XP & 4780  GP

Gurt (N/A) 0 XP & 0 GP

  and Anri (E) 1,689 XP & 1018  GP

  and Cedric (E) 1,689 XP & 1018  GP

  and Solaire (N/A) 0 XP & 0 GP

Graveyard

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 6) killed by a poison needle trap in session #114 RAISED FROM THE DEAD (with a roll of 94!)

Solaire the Fallen (Henchman Fighter (paladin) level 3) killed by Stone Giants acting as catapults in session #114

Paul (Henchman Paladin level 1), reduced to 0 hit points by white dragon breath when climbing down a rope ladder in session #108. Killed not by the fall; but by the sudden stop at the bottom. RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Ignatius the Smiter (Cleric level 1), horrifically mutilated and killed by double hit from a Shoggoth in session #106

Domby (Henchman with Dex 5), double surprised and turned into a pin cushion in session #87

Luke (Half elf Fighter/Cleric level 1), tragically killed by a normal hydra while trying to cauterise one of its neck stumps in session  #86

Gurt the Green (Paladin level 3),  killed by a hydra bite in session  #86 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Pleasance (Footman level 0), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Siegward (Henchman Fighter level 1), killed by a phase spider bite in session #81

Tawadros (Henchman Fighter level 4),  killed by a phase spider bite in session #81 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Patria (Footman level 0), killed by a two headed snake bite in session #81

Deltacron (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 1/1), threw his last flask of oil at, and was level drained to death by, a Vampire in session #76

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), wrong place, wrong time; killed by Sever the Ranger in session #72 RAISED FROM THE DEAD

Petrov the Prestidigitator (Magic-user level 1), killed again by the toxic gas of an Achaierai in session #72

Red (Paladin Level 1), always popular with the ladies, he was eaten up by a female Roc in the Pizza Slice of Doom during session #67

Jacques Ocular (Magic User level 1), a fat green worm burrowed into his head and turned him into a Son Of Kyuss in Brovenloft in Session #43

Pino (Dwarf Footman level 0), Killed by a Frost Giant axe in the head in session #39

Paro (Dwarf Fighter/Thief level 2/2)  Killed by Winter Wolves and frozen in session #39

Zabib (1/2 Elf Fighter/Magic User level 1/1), Killed by Frost Giant rocks in downtime prior to session #39