The session began with the party rolling for initiative, preparing for an encounter while utilizing the spell Pass Without Trace to enhance their stealth. As they strategized, a stalactite revealed itself as a molten lava creature, prompting immediate reactions from the group.
Yurian Darksbane confirmed his concentration on Pass Without Trace and devised a distraction plan, leaving food behind to keep the creature occupied. Meanwhile, Zonga positioned himself stealthily, readying an action. The creature attacked Isaac, grappling him and pulling him towards the lava, while Zonga retaliated, becoming visible in the process. The creature countered by grappling Zonga as well, inflicting significant fire damage on both.
Valerian attempted to command the creature to release its hold but failed. In a desperate bid, Isaac tried to escape the grapple but was unsuccessful. Xeiros cast Mass Cure Wounds, healing both Zonga and Isaac, while Argos provided support to Zonga, granting him advantage on his next escape attempt. Bitey, a new character, added a comedic twist by stealthily taking a dagger from Yurian amidst the chaos.
As the battle escalated, Valerian flew above the fray, only to be targeted by a flame sphere thrown by a salamander. Yurian observed the perilous situation of Isaac and Zonga in the lava and decided to attempt a rescue, successfully freeing Isaac. Zonga also managed to break free and reposition himself.
The Roper then attacked Valerian, grappling him on its second attempt. Dareth was pulled into the lava, becoming unconscious, while Valerian summoned Spirit Guardians, dealing damage to nearby enemies. Isaac and Yurian attacked the Roper, dealing significant damage, while Xeiros used Misty Step to gain a strategic position and cast an area effect spell, eliminating several enemies.
Valerian cast Mass Healing Word, restoring health to multiple party members, while the combat continued with Zonga and Bitey engaging enemies. The group ultimately defeated the remaining salamanders, leading to a discussion about the next steps, including the potential threat of a dragon.
As they scouted the area, they noticed a giant seemingly asleep against the wall. Yurian expressed a desire to confront the dragon, while the party debated healing and regrouping first. After a short break, they resumed, with Bitey stealthily entering a domed room filled with fire cultists and attempting to communicate with an efreeti.
The party prepared for an ambush, rolling for initiative once more. Bitey attacked, followed by Zonga and Xeiros, who positioned themselves strategically. Valerian activated Spirit Guardians, while the efreeti retaliated against Jennyfer. Isaac and Yurian joined the fray, attacking the efreeti and other enemies.
The battle intensified with fireballs being cast, resulting in chaos as Jennyfer fell into lava. Yurian attempted to save her but was unable to reach her in time. Dareth and Bitey continued to engage enemies, with Bitey knocking one out, causing an explosion that damaged nearby allies.
After the combat concluded, Valerian used Goodberry to heal party members, and the group discussed their healing resources and the aftermath of the battle, preparing for the challenges that lay ahead.