Peril & Fame 2: Belhaim

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Is every hidden chamber in Avistan reached by spinning something? You'd think someone would want a little variety for storing their secret goods." The tiefling examined the pit, looking for any hidden threats within. "So... is everyone good to make this climb, or do we need to get creative?"

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

"I confess I'm unfamiliar with most of your gods, actually. Pa was a bit of a traditionalist, so the only ones I got regular exposure to were the dwarven ones. I usually pay homage to Trudd, myself - when I can be bothered to do such things."

He then turned to Kiyoko. "I've not trained a lot, but I can do a little bit. Armor does weigh me down a bit, though, so I should probably go first. Less chance of landing on someone that way. And do I sense a bit of a story behind the spinning comment?"

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Not really a story, just a repetitive secret door trigger, not like in Tian Xia, where..."

The tiefling took a moment to think about that while climbing. There's the path to the vault in the Imperial Palace... that you reach by spinning the dragon statue. Um... there's the conceptual planar shift to the Imperial Shrine... that you get to by taking an imperial seal around the torii gates that surround the island in a circle. Is that spinning? Oh gods, maybe we're all in a rut.

Giving up, she shook her head. "...we do it differently. Trust me."

[Nefarion Xid]

Knotted rope: Not overrated.

Taking the right hand path, the party arrived in a chamber with sixteen five-foot-wide alcoves, each containing a wooden post with pegs of varying lengths and heights set into it in different configurations. Each is set on a platform atop ball bearings to spin and offer the facsimile of a hand-to-hand fight. There appears to be no exit.

Ioseph is not struck with any immediate insight of what one should do here to progress.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Oh look, more spinning things!" The tiefling batted at the nearest one a few times before moving about the room to look for clues.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead's stomach growled.

"Spinning things... damn it, now I'm thinking of spit-roasted pig." He then watched carefully as Kiyoko began spinning the pegs, turning each until it clicked. "Careful now. Last thing we need is for one of us to get blown to bits."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

With Hammerhead

"Yes, Eren Drakos. Not long, really, nor very well," she explained. "Still, he seemed nice, for an Abadarian."

With Ellarie

"Conall," she replied, patting the wolf's head. "Behave," she told the animal. "Friend." She pointed to Ellarie. "I often find that I get along with animals better than people." Cassandra told the other woman. She smiled slightly, though her expression was somewhat pained. "You may have noticed. I apologize if I come off as...rude or inconsiderate at times," she said quietly. "It is not my intention, though it has come to my ears in the past that I may appear thus."

Now

Cassandra watched as Ioseph and Kiyoko worked on the puzzle. "Just how thorough is this test supposed to be, I wonder."

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

Standing back as Kiyoko and Ioseph flew across the room, Elias could only applaud lightly at the display of martial skill.

"Very impressive, Kiyoko, Ioseph. You should do a few sparring matches once this is all over."

[Nefarion Xid]

After a bit of experimentation, Kiyoko and Ioseph figured out each training dummy contained a switch and that a properly executed series of unarmed blows in a hasty course around the room triggered the secret door.

A snaking corridor took them to a long room, two hundred feet long and thirty five across. Three fifteen foot platforms lay in a line, each rising three feet high. In the center of each short platform, a glass sphere (2 feet in diameter) contained a murky green-brown liquid in the embrace of a bronze octopus statue. The two nearest were whole, containing an indistinct fleshy, floating pink mass. The eastern globe had been shattered and a large stain of foul, indeterminable fluid spread around it on the floor. Along the wall near the eastern door sat a tiny wooden cabinet.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead


*** Earlier, talking with Cassandra... ***


Cassandra

With Hammerhead

"Yes, Eren Drakos. Not long, really, nor very well," she explained. "Still, he seemed nice, for an Abadarian."
"Abadar, Abadar... I want to say that's the one whose followers usually get put in charge of taxes, right?"

Hammerhead mused to himself.

"Pa probably would have hated him."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"I thought I was supposed to avoid roughhousing with the local law enforcement," Kiyoko joked as she made her way into the next room. "But if you insist, I could... (Minkaian) What in...?" She grabbed the side of her head and her eyes flared a lurid red. With an effort, she threw something out of her mind. "Be on guard," she hissed, "Something just tried to get in my head, I could feel it. Possession? Domination? What are these things?"

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Papa - that is, my father - was not happy to receive such a guest when we first met. Lords and Princes are sometimes not fond of tax collectors, for rather obvious lessons," she explained. "I never looked at my father's books; Mother said such things were for the scribes and servants to attend to, and not for a lady to concern themselves with. I...miss them now." She said quietly, wiping a tear before it had a chance to fully form. "Eren and I left together. It was not planned, but it was the excuse I needed to leave home. It was sort of a chance meeting that brought us both to Belhaim actually."

[Nefarion Xid]

Unknown assailant!

Sensing that her mind was under attack, Kiyoko did natural thing and began smashing everything in the room. The first of two green globes shattered and the human (or human sized) brain within sloshed to the floor, completely inert.

Kiyoko, Elias, Wolf, Cassandra and Ioseph have won initiative.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

Thoroughly upset by the mental intrusion, Kiyoko wasted no time in lunging for the second preserved lump of grey matter. Swinging her sword around, she thought about making some kind of pun - picking the thing's brain, perhaps - but elected to remain furiously silent.

Using Adamantine weapon for this, and also raging.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Her blade shattered the jar and dug into the brain, but it seemed surprisingly resilient... and floated in the same place it had been before the glass and fluid had been smashed away. Even through the red haze of her vision, Kiyoko visibly hesitated, put off by the development. "Gross. Am I the only one seeing this?"

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Oh, disgusting!" Cassandra muttered. "Conall, go help Kiyoko," she instructed, holding her own position.

Delaying Cassandra. Conall moves to flank.

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

As the group converged to slay the horror rising from the tank, Elias was suddenly inside the room and moving towards one of the far walls. Gripping the silver baton tucked into his sash, he once more summoned a ball of bitter cold and sent it screaming towards the creature.

Elias Shifts and moves before casing a maximized snowball. The rod of maximize is used for the day.

Touch Attack into melee: [roll0]

Cold Damage: 30

[Nefarion Xid]

"Wretched woman, you will serve me!" Kiyoko felt the voice in her head like someone had slapped her with a gong. The floating brain drifted up and out of reach.

[roll0]

Round 2 starts. Everyone is up.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead


*** Talking with Cassandra... ***


Cassandra

"Papa - that is, my father - was not happy to receive such a guest when we first met. Lords and Princes are sometimes not fond of tax collectors, for rather obvious lessons," she explained. "I never looked at my father's books; Mother said such things were for the scribes and servants to attend to, and not for a lady to concern themselves with. I...miss them now." She said quietly, wiping a tear before it had a chance to fully form. "Eren and I left together. It was not planned, but it was the excuse I needed to leave home. It was sort of a chance meeting that brought us both to Belhaim actually."
Hammerhead smiled sadly.

I read once that talking's the best way to help heal this sort of thing. Not much else I can do, but I can at least do that.

"My Pap tried to teach me his books, but... I could never really get the hang of it, honestly. Never really had the head for numbers. If I may be so bold..."

Hammerhead briefly thought of asking after her parent's fates, but, after observing a tear roll down her cheek, thought better of it.

"Of all the people to leave home with, why a tax collector?"


*** Back in the present... ***

"Eugh! A floating brain? Let's go put a stop to that, aye?"

Unable to move particularly quickly in his heavy armor, Hammerhead nonetheless advanced forward as quickly as he could, skidding to a halt behind Elias.

Double-move to BN 242.

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Previously with Cass

"Conall." She repeated the name to the wolf she was still stroking.

"A handsome name for a handsome beast." She said with a final pat as she arose from her knees. She couldn't hide her surprise as the Druidess admitted her perceived faults.

"A bit yeah." She said with a smile to soften the sting from her words. Her cheeks reddened as she recalled the numerous times she had labeled Cassandra as Poshie derisively in her mind.

"But I haven't always been the easiest to get along with either. There's an old resentment there. With nobility, not you specifically. But you got lumped in with them in my mind and I'm sorry about that too." She had to admit she felt a growing respect for the woman for making it this far. Farther than Eren, she wouldn't have taken that bet at the start of all of this.

Now with the Brain

As they discovered the Brains, she cast Ioseph an almost accusing glance.

"I'm sorry, but your brothers were into some horrid ****". Thankful Irori was not on her parent's deity short list, she ran at the disembodied floating brain that was silently harassing Kiyoko as she pulled her weapon and let her raging song free.

Raging Song and move.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"AND NOW HE SOUNDS LIKE GRANDFATHER!" Needing no further prompting, Kiyoko darted around the side of the glass stand and attempted to carve a few new lobes out of the thing.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Attack: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Othniel]

Cassandra

With Ellarie

"It is all right," Cassandra said, though she shot Ellarie a look of thanks for the comment. "If it makes you feel any better, I hate most of the nobility too. A bunch of self-important busybodies who wish to run the lives of decent people." She smiled slightly and dropped her voice lower. "But you did not hear that from me."

With Hammerhead

"I needed someone reasonably trustworthy to justify leaving with - to pacify my parents - and an inquisitor of Abadar suited me nicely. In truth, I would have left with nearly anyone of some authority and ability. We did not receive many visitors at home, you see, considering the distance between my father's holdings and the capital. Only those on official business, or some pour souls fleeing Galt. Or the odd ones heading to Galt, I suppose. I have not returned home in over a year. If I survive this dragon thing, perhaps I should."

In the present!

Cassandra moved forward into the room, while Conall snapped at the creature.

Conall 5' steps to the south of Brain.
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[zabbarot]

Ioseph

Now aware that Kiyoko wasn't just smashing his future home for no reason, Ioseph knocked an arrow and aimed for the brain.


Full attack
To-hit: [roll0], [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]+[roll3], [roll4]+[roll5]

[Nefarion Xid]

Completely out of options, the flying brain darted into Kiyoko's face and repeatedly slapper her with its electrified tendrils. Its tendrils had only recently dropped; the party hadn't noticed them before. Sensing that its assault had had almost no effect and Kiyoko and certainly hadn't rendered her lizard-stupid, the brain slumped in mid air. "I would like to negotiate," it sullenly communicated to Kiyoko.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Unaware of the brain's negotiations, Hammerhead continue to push forward, skidding to a halt next to the brain. Meanwhile, the spirits of the dead surrounding him, courtesy of Ellarie, prepared to lash out against the creature...

Double-move to BZ 240, then attack using Spirit Totem.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"I'm sure you would." The tiefling readied her sword and continued slashing.

Adjusting back.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Attack: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Othniel]

Cassandra and Conall

"Conall, flank and kill!" She shouted, urging the wolf ahead.

Cassandra delays until after Ellarie, but Conall 5' steps and attacks.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Wisp: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Finally reaching the thing, she swung at it hoping to kill it mostly so she didn't have to look at it any longer.

Maintain Rage
Rage + Heroism
Attack
[roll0]
Damage
[roll1]

Spirit Totem
[roll2]
Damage
[roll3]

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Cassandra surged forward and with a word and motion, reached out to touch the brain. "BRAIN FREEZE!

Moving. Then Frigid Touch attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

As the disgusting flying brain finally dropped to the floor, Hammerhead pumped a fist quickly in victory.

"Well, as far as one-liners go, that was fairly decent. Bit disappointed I didn't get to play polo with the thing, but I'll live. Everyone still alright?"

[Nefarion Xid]

Cassandra's touch encased the brain in ice and it toppled to the floor, cracking on impact. The aura of unease around it faded and everyone was sure the danger had passed.

Within the cabinet on the far side of the room, they found a black velvet pouch containing three yellow glass beads. Although no one could read Vudrani, the instructions painted on the front of the cabinet stated, "In case of emergency". Elias identified the objects as Beads of Force.

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

"Alright?" She parroted Hammerhead's question.

"I suppose I'm alright, though there are just some things you can't unsee." She frowned and pulled her eyes away from the shattered remains of the brain on the floor.

"Or untouch." She looked doubtfully at Cassandra's fingers.

"Nice one!" She gave Cass's shoulders a squeeze and stepped carefully around the mass of jar goo and frozen brains on the floor.

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

Seeing that everyone was mostly unharmed, and not wishing to call attention to his own lack of contribution, Elias busied himself with the newly discovered beads. Holding them up to the dim light, he eventually realized what they were and snapped his fingers.

"I see! The monks must have known there was some danger in the Window. Strange that they kept their emergency supplies for it down here, though..."

He turned to look down the remaining corridor.

"There may be more within that proves resistant to normal attack."

[Nefarion Xid]

After exiting the brain room, the party found the end of the corridor where they would have ended up had they taken the left-hand path originally. Continuing straight ahead, through an open archway, they found a blue and white tiled room with a pool. Tile mandalas had been laid into the barrel-vault ceiling. The water is perfectly clear and three feet deep. Three marble platforms featuring more mandala designs rise along the pool's center, reaching six inches above the surface. Four octagonal, domed alcoves in the corners of the room hold a pale blue marble pillar. Near the southeast alcove, a large hole has been dug into the wall. The tunnel goes on well out of sight. The marble pillars are lined with names, likely every monk who ever trained here.

Elias detects that the pool is magical, granting bathers the benefit of Heroes' Feast and Restoration once per month if an hour is spent in the water.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

As the group gathered around the pool, Cassandra cleared her throat to gather their attention. "Before we go any further, perhaps we should discuss the eventualities of one or more of us meeting an untimely demise in battle with the dragon. If the group as a whole ultimately prevails, of course. If we all die, well, that is that, I suppose." She paused a moment to let the others consider her words. "As for myself, I believe my share of the spoils thus far would account for the cost of a resurrection spell once several items are sold. As I doubt the local temples of Shelyn or Abadar have clerics capable of resurrection - otherwise I am sure we would be accompanying them on a venture to slay the dragon - I imagine they are at least prepared to cast spells to, ah, preserve the body in case they are required for transported to a destination where such resurrection is possible. I wish that to be done for my remains, if I am unfortunate enough to be killed in this venture."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

The tiefling nodded as Cassandra brought up the very real possibility that one or more of them would be dragon chow by this time tomorrow. "I'm not sure that I can die - it's complicated - but if I do, congratulations in advance on getting me into a situation dangerous enough to spite several gods." She fell silent for a moment. "I don't know what my afterlife will look like, but if it works like I think it does, I'd vastly prefer to be raised... assuming you have any desire to do so and can find a cleric willing to do it. Do not reincarnate me. The Ruby Phoenix routine is so overdone in Tian Xia. I will refuse and I will haunt you, I'm serious! My stuff can go to whichever of you thinks you deserve it the most."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

While the others were discussing the grim realities of their situation, and making their worst case scenario plans, Ellarie kept silent and unrolled her bedroll. If they thought she was worth Raising if she died fine, if not. She shrugged mentally. Nobody would miss her. Her eyes went to Kiyoko and Elias. Despite the somber tone of her thoughts, she suspected they at least would have her back if it came to that. Hopefully it wouldn't come to that. She removed her breastplate and her armor padding and stretched her arms above her head. She took off her boots and socks and padded barefoot to Kiyoko with a bottle of wine in each hand.

"Join me in a drink? I need a drink." She held out the bottle to Kiyoko and called out to the dwarf.

"Hey Hammerhead, what was that song you were singing when we found you?"

"I've been a Wild Rover for many's the Year
And I spend all my money on Whiskey and Beer,
And now I'm returning with Gold in great store,
And I never will play the Wild Rover no more!"

"Teach me the rest will you?" She took a long swallow from her bottle and turned to Hammerhead, seeking to lose herself in the comfort of song.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead


Kiyoko

The tiefling nodded as Cassandra brought up the very real possibility that one or more of them would be dragon chow by this time tomorrow. "I'm not sure that I can die - it's complicated - but if I do, congratulations in advance on getting me into a situation dangerous enough to spite several gods." She fell silent for a moment. "I don't know what my afterlife will look like, but if it works like I think it does, I'd vastly prefer to be raised... assuming you have any desire to do so and can find a cleric willing to do it. Do not reincarnate me. The Ruby Phoenix routine is so overdone in Tian Xia. I will refuse and I will haunt you, I'm serious! My stuff can go to whichever of you thinks you deserve it the most."
Hammerhead raised an eyebrow.

"You don't think you can die? Okay, if we survive this, you've got to tell the story behind that. That cannot possibly be boring."


Ellarie

While the others were discussing the grim realities of their situation, and making their worst case scenario plans, Ellarie kept silent and unrolled her bedroll. If they thought she was worth Raising if she died fine, if not. She shrugged mentally. Nobody would miss her. Her eyes went to Kiyoko and Elias. Despite the somber tone of her thoughts, she suspected they at least would have her back if it came to that. Hopefully it wouldn't come to that. She removed her breastplate and her armor padding and stretched her arms above her head. She took off her boots and socks and padded barefoot to Kiyoko with a bottle of wine in each hand.

"Join me in a drink? I need a drink." She held out the bottle to Kiyoko and called out to the dwarf.

"Hey Hammerhead, what was that song you were singing when we found you?"

"I've been a Wild Rover for many's the Year
And I spend all my money on Whiskey and Beer,
And now I'm returning with Gold in great store,
And I never will play the Wild Rover no more!"

"Teach me the rest will you?" She took a long swallow from her bottle and turned to Hammerhead, seeking to lose herself in the comfort of song.
"Hey, lass, if you're going to drink, don't leave me out!"

He sidled up.

"The Wild Rover? Why, Ellarie, that's only the classic dwarven drinking song. But before we go ahead and do that..."

"If we're talking about what to do when we die, well, obviously, if you can afford it, I'd like to be raised - I'll pay you back, somehow. If that's not an option, well..." Hammerhead sighed. "I didn't leave home on the best of terms, to be perfectly honest, and, at least as far as the edge of the Five Kings Mountains, my Pap hired a bunch of people to try and convince me to come back home, by choice or otherwise. I'd like to think at least part of that was from worry, but... In any case, if you can't raise me, take what's left of my corpse and see what you can do about shipping it back to Highhelm. You can sell my armor and other stuff, but I'd like the Last Word to stay with me."

His 'will' set out, Hammerhead turned to Ellarie.

"Now, Ellarie. Listen close, and follow along. And pour me a drink, if you would. It's not right to sing a drinking song without drinking."

With great enthusiasm, if a bit off-key, Hammerhead broke into song.

Here. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEgDlOuy_y8)



"I've been a wild rover for many's the year
and I've spent all my money on whiskey and beer.
But now I'm returning with gold in great store
and I never will play the wild rover no more

[Chorus:]
And it's no, nay, never,
no, nay, never, no more
will I play the wild rover
no, never, no more

I went into an ale-house I used to frequent
and I told the landlady my money was spent.
I asked her for credit, she answered me nay,
Such a custom like yours I can have any day

[Chorus]

I took from my pocket ten sovereigns bright
and the landlady's eyes opened wide with delight.
She said I'd have whiskey and wines of the best
and the words that she told me were only in jest.

[Chorus]

I'll go home to my parents, confess what I've done,
and I'll ask them to pardon their prodigal son.
And when they've caressed me as oft' times before
then I never will play the wild rover no more

[Chorus]."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Ellarie grinned and filled the dwarf's cup with her purloined wine and filled any other offered cups as he spoke of his final wishes. Trying not to seem impatient, she sat on the end of her bedroll and awaited the new song eagerly. She clapped her hands in rhythm and soon was singing along with the chorus.

"Well done Hammerhead! To wild rovers!" Laughing, she lifted the bottle in toast and took a long swallow of wine. She was delighted to add a dwarven drinking song to her repertoire.

[Nefarion Xid]

Aeteperax's Lair

As the party explored the grassy cavern, they saw nothing out of place, not even a noticeable paw print. The air here was still and warm. A faint whistle could be heard above as the winter wind washed over the natural skylights. A tense half minute passed, moving cautiously towards the pond.

From the south, a terrible roar began which shook the stones. The dragon appeared with the sound, racing towards the party as fast as a bird of prey, crossing the distance with one flap of his wings.

"Unctuous vermin! Name yourselves so that I may know whose bones litter my home!"

The air from the single flap washed over the party. The monster had outpaced it to scream his insults and crane his head for a breath attack. Though he'd never seen it in person, Elias immediately recognized the posture. His raving went quiet and his throat muscles clenched.

Despite the presence of the flying elephant sized armor wrapped ancient horror, you don't flinch. Whatever fear you probably should be feeling is allayed by a sense of determination and resolve. You are prepared.

Everyone has won initiative except Kiyoko. Round 1!

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

Confident in his invisibility, Elias did not flinch as he saw the dragon prepare to douse them in acidic gas. Raising unseen hands, he napped yet another root and infused his companions with fearsome speed. That done, he attempted to move beyond the reach of the dragon's breath.

Kiyoko, Ellarie, Hammerhead, Ioseph, and Elias are Hasted. Alas, Cassandra is too far away.

Elias then moves south.

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

The sight of him took her breath away for a moment. This was not the wasted form of the black dragon illusion they had seen over Belhaim. This Aeteperax was green and beautiful. Fearsome and deadly. The illusion had been a lie just as Aeteperax was a lie.

"My name is Ellarie Chapman! Yours are the only bones that will litter this cavern, it will be known from this day forward as Svangi's Tomb!" Her voice was a battle cry, granting her courage in the face of the monster come to destroy her and her companions. She reached within herself and called upon her magic to aid them.

Use the entire round to Spell Kenning.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Staring wordlessly at the dragon, Cassandra backed away, hoping to avoid the inevitable breath attack before beginning her summoning spell. Conall followed along, directed by his mistress's gestures. He couldn't do any good unless the dragon came down, so the druidess figured she may as well keep the wolf out of harm's way until then.

Moving. Standard action to start summoning. Will complete with a standard action next turn.

[Jade_Tarem]

"My name is Ellarie Chapman! Yours are the only bones that will litter this cavern, it will be known from this day forward as Svangi's Tomb!"[/SPOILER]

"And we're gonna misspell it too! On purpose!"

[zabbarot]

Ioseph

Once the dragon announced itself Ioseph began readying the slaying arrows. He had no need to trade words with the beast. Either their success here would speak for itself or they'd be forever silenced. The dragonslayer flew ahead of two dragonbane arrows.

Declare Personal Trial on the dragon
Full Attack with Dragon Slaying Arrows!
To-hit: [roll0], [roll1], [roll2]
Damage: [roll3] + [roll4], [roll5] + [roll6] + [roll7], [roll8] + [roll9] + [roll10]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

A few minutes earlier, Hammerhead would have been lying if he'd said he wasn't nervous. Even as he'd felt Elias' and Cassandra's magic pouring through him, even as he'd downed his potion of magical armor and chewed the rather disgusting strength-enhancing mixture he'd purloined off an alchemist (and improved through experimentation), he had felt a touch of temerity. When he had left home, he had hoped for adventure - but he had never thought he'd go up against a dragon.

But here, now, with those who had rescued him, Hammerhead grinned, his fear gone.

"The name's Hammerhead, beastie! Yandeath Hammerhead!"

Hoisting his hammer, he swung at the great wyrm.

"AND THIS HERE'S MY FINAL WORD ON WHAT WE THINK OF YOUR SCARE TACTICS!"

Having passed the DC 15 Fly check to hover in place, Hammerhead opens up a can of pain on the dragon with a full attack!

Attack 1: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Haste Attack: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

Attack 2: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]
However, all of Hammerhead's attacks ended up missing.

"Gah! Stay still, you daft lizard!"

[Nefarion Xid]

Aeteperax disgorged his mist of caustic acid, blanketing half the cavern. Bewildered, he touched down on the northern step, wheeling around to meet his attackers with tooth and claw. Ioseph's arrow still clung to his neck and the wound bled profusely; he'd found an artery. Hammerhead's reflexive strike had caught him on the nose. His horn was cracked and one tooth fell away in a spray of blood and saliva.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Soto Kiyoko," the tiefling bowed before darting around behind the dragon. "When you choose to take the name of those who came before, you should really look into what happened to them." Her attack skipped off the dragon's hide, but every bit helped.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead gritted his teeth as the dragon's acid seared his flesh, thankful for Cassandra's magic (which had helped soften the blow). Spotting an opening as the dragon flitted over to the ledge, he grinned as the dragon reeled from his blow.

"Now that's more like it! Take your shenanigans to the grave, beastie!"

The dragon is still in range, so Hammerhead will attempt to hover again.

Fly: [roll0] vs DC 15.

Assuming he's still in range after that check, he makes the following attacks:

Attack 1: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Haste: [roll3]
Damage: [roll4]

Attack 2: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6]

[Nefarion Xid]

It was just as Hammerhead said. Gliding forward he swung Last Word in a tremendous arc and caught the beast at the base of the jaw. The blow from the enormous hammer crunched through plate and flesh and bone shattering the jaw on impact. This send the head flying to the left so fast that it tore away form his neck with a sickening wet ripping sound before meeting the wall with a unceremonious splat. Aeteperax's head clattered to the ground in a puddle of blood with a permanently confused expression on his wide eyes. The body carried out its last command clumsily, feebly clawing for Hammerhead before stumbling off the ledge and crashing to the grass below.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

The tiefling ducked out of the way as the head rolled to a stop next to her. Looking into one of the large, dead eyes, she smirked. "Oh Svangi. You should have quit while you were a head."

Stalking over to the edge of the raised rock shelf, she threw her arms out and shouted to her teammates. "It's as dead as it looks. Beer all around, and lootin' time!"

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Cassandra watched the entire bloody scene play out from across the cavern. When the beast finally lay still, she approached the base of the elevated area, moving stiffly and not quite believing they'd prevailed with such little trouble. "It is really dead then. Ha! Well struck, master Dwarf! We should try to find Master Kell's wife though; who knows what she has gone through."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Breathing heavily, Hammerhead gripped the shaft of Last Word as he watched Svangi's head sail through the air.

I did it. We did it.

Recovering his senses, Hammerhead expertly twirled around his hammer before slamming it down into the ground and pumping his fist into the air in a victory pose.

"We did it, everyone! We slew us a dragon! THAT'S how you get the Last Word in!"


"Oh Svangi. You should have quit while you were a head."

"It's as dead as it looks. Beer all around, and lootin' time!"
Hammerhead chuckled. "The beast's already dead, Kiyoko. No need to add insult to injury with the awful puns."

"Now, let's go and see what this fella's been keeping to himself - and yes, hopefull a sign of Master Kell's wife. Oh, and when we get to town, drinks are on me!"

Floating toward the southern platform, Hammerhead lumbered down to the south, searching for signs of anything of interest.

[Nefarion Xid]

A hesitant cry came from the southern passage. "Is ... is he dead? You've killed him? Oh thank the gods!"

Moving to investigate, they found the source in a frail, thin woman with oily black hair. She wore little more than a stained white chemise and had draped a pelt over her shoulders. She was chained at then neck to a steel spike driven into the stone with no more than 10 feet of slack. The dragon had apparently had the kindness to set her up a little bed of wolf pelts in her corner of the cave.

"Is Azmur with you? Is he okay?" she pleaded between overwhelmed sobs. "I'm Rima. Rima Kel!"

Circlet of Persuasion - Gold with a single emerald, +1000 gp value
Winged Boots - Fine Taldori leather, brown and knee length
Belt of Physical Might (Con & Str +2) - Black with gold diamond shaped studs, dwarven runes read "Family & Honor"
Ring of Animal Friendship - Brass, but does not tarnish. A fox's head is crudely scratched in.
Wand of Remove Paralysis (38 charges)
Wand of Longstrider (44 charges)
6x Screaming Bolts
+2 Warhammer - Dwarven, geometric designs, named Bloodmist
+2 Mithral Dagger
+1 Flaming Burst Hand Crossbow
+1 Light Fortification Mithral Buckler - Elven design
+1 Returning Starknife - A prayer to Desna is etched on each blade
Masterwork Rapier
Masterwork Leather Armor
Scroll of Chaos Hammer
Potion of Water Breathing
Potion of Good Hope

A silver cauldron with images of wolverines, 120 gp
A gold scarab engraved with the symbol of Nethys, 75 gp
A silver hand mirror in a darkwood frame, 120 gp
A silver fruit bowl with a floral design, 75 gp
Six tiny jade statuettes of playful cats, 6x20gp
A platinum Holy Symbol of Abadar, 500 gp
A masterwork darkwood flute, 300 gp
A masterpiece unframed oil painting of Queen Abrogail II, 2500 gp (an invoice from an auction house in Oppara indicates this was to be delivered to the Prince of the Silver Isle)
A masterpiece unframed oil painting of a gnome shooting purple lightning from his crotch, Priceless?
Three identical rings with sapphires in mithral settings, 3x1000 gp
A black pearl earring, 500 gp
A pouch of unworked garnets, 200 gp
A six pound lump of unworked Voidglass, 600 gp
A thin adamantine box, empty except the phrase "Devil Take Me" is engraved on the interior. It is only large enough to hold a few playing cards. It smells pleasantly of cloves. 500 gp value
A chimera pelt, finely preserved, 900 gp

A collection of books worth 12000 gp. When consulted, they grant a +6 competence bonus for Arcana, Nature, Dungeoneering, Geography, History, Planes, or Religion. The collection is spread across six waterproof chests and each chest weighs 250 pounds when full.



641 platinum pieces, 7371 gold pieces, 15100 silver, 17163 copper

[zabbarot]

Ioseph

The knight relaxed his draw as the beast fell dead. He remained cautious, but it did seem to be truly dead.

"I've never actually fought a dragon... I'm not sure what I expected. I guess I should be thankful that he seemed to be mostly bluster."

Ioseph walked forward and prodded the corpse with one boot as he slung his bow over his shoulder.

"Yes, Lady Cassandra. Let's find Master Kell's wife."

As soon as he'd said it she found herself.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"He is alive, ma'am," Cassandra quickly assured the woman. "And waiting impatiently for you, I am sure. Are you well. No injuries?"

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

As Rima called out, Hammerhead drifted over, touching down as gently as he could despite his magically enlarged form. "I can guarantee that dragon's dead now, ma'am, and your husband's safe. Don't worry about the chain - we'll get you out and home safe, quick as a whip." He turned to Kiyoko. "Kiyoko, I believe this is where your little adamantine problem-solver comes in handy."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Hold still," was the Tiefling's only instruction, "this will fix the chain issue." One quick swipe of the blade severed the bindings with a couple of feet to spare.

[Nefarion Xid]

Rima embraced around Kiyoko, who only returned an awkward, one-armed pat. "No, no, I'm not hurt. He said he wouldn't hurt me as long as Azmur ... Azmur!"

At that moment a raven had glided in through the skylight and made straight for the party. On approach, the birds form exploded into the stout form of the druid Azmur Kell who ran forward to relieve Kiyoko of his spouse. "Hells! I came to help you fight, but apparently you didn't need me. What was that, twelve seconds? I was perched nearby and I came as soon as I heard the roar!"

[zabbarot]

Ioseph

"Luck was definitely with us."

With Master Kell and his wife happily reunited Ioseph aided in skinning the dragon.

"We should get cleaned up and visit the naga. Maybe she'd be willing to just leave? She didn't seem especially dangerous..."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"I suppose it cannot hurt to try," Cassandra reasoned. She didn't relish visiting the obsessed naga once more, but it had to be done, if only to remove one last potential threat in the area. "Though she seemed rather obsessed with her "Svangi" when we spoke with her. It is entirely possible this will send her completely mad. Or angry. Also definitely a possibility. We should be cautious."

[Nefarion Xid]

Azmur took off his burgundy colored hat with the baby blue feather and tossed it into the pile with the rest of the dragon's loot. "He gave me that for the job. I don't suspect I'll be needing a disguise again, so you lot are welcome to it, with my thanks. I'm going to get Rima home, but if you need anything, you can find me at the north of town on Devy Road."

Rima mouthed her thanks to the party again, but seemed light headed and leaned on her husband for support as they made their way through the caver and to the monastery.

Azmur's Hat of Disguise is a bit defective. Regardless of what form the wearer takes, the hat itself never changes, always appearing as a garish wide-brimmed, burgundy hat with a long pale blue feather. 1200 gp

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"I'll come by sometime within the next few days, Master Kel," said Cassandra. "There are...things I wish to discuss with you. Unrelated to this whole incident, that is." She paused as she watched the couple for a moment. "Druid matters."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

She frowned, looking between Cassandra and Ioseph doubtfully. Neither meeting with the Baroness nor informing the mad naga of her love's death held much appeal for her. She wasn't quite sure which sounded less appealing.

"I suppose you're right, we can't just leave her there.." Her tone was regretfully, as though she would very much like to just leave her there. The naga's potential reaction was difficult to predict, though is was likely to be bad. the only question was how bad. Would they see abject depression or murderous rage? She was not wholly without sympathy for the naga. When Andun had died, Ellarie had wandered the woods in an aimless haze for weeks before a kindly old woman had found her and taken pity on her. She shook herself out of the reverie she had unexpectedly fallen into to.

"Right. Let's get this over with then." She healed herself in case the naga chose murderous rage.

[roll0]

"Everyone else ok to move on?" She turned to the others to offer healing if it was needed.

[Nefarion Xid]

Regressing to the naga's chamber at the monastery, the party found her door closed. Listening at the door revealed a distant snoring. Since it was about the same time as they'd encountered her yesterday, the safe bet was she was asleep.

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

Following the others as they ascended the monastery belltower once again, Elias paused outside the naga's door. Hearing the soft sound of her snoring, he was struck momentarily by the surprising humanity of the creature, even if displayed in so trivial a thing. Still, they had a last duty to fulfill and a comrade to aid, so he reached out and knocked at the door.

"Excuse us, ma'am! We have news from Aeteperax."

[Nefarion Xid]

After two minute, the door opened a crack. A familiar, slender, pale face greeted Elias. "Oh, yes, hello. What is it?" she asked sleepily.

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

Stepping back to allow the naga to see him fully, Elias bowed respectfully.

"Good morning, I apologize for disturbing you, but we thought it best to seek you out immediately. We have dire news about Aeteperax."

[zabbarot]

Ioseph

Ioseph watched on as the door opened. As he looked her in the eyes he was struck with a pang of guilt over skinning her love. Slaying him was necessary to protect Belhaim, that he was sure of, but skinning suddenly seemed cruel.

[Nefarion Xid]

Thaena leaned out of the doorway another few inches. Her expression had gone cross rather than worried. "Well? Get on with it."

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

Nodding now that he had her attention, Elias gestured back towards the bloody sack at Ellarie's feet.

"Alas, we were forced to slay him when he proved unreasonable. But I hope you'll understand the necessity."

[Nefarion Xid]

There was a pause and a quizzical look crossed her face. The door slammed shut a moment later. The sound of a timber thudding into place immediately followed.

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

The sympathetic smile Ellarie had pasted upon her face at the appearance of the naga froze as Elias pointed to the bloody bag that contained the head of Thaena's love. As the door slammed in their faces, she she threw her hands in the air in exasperation at the Wizard and called after her through the door.

"We're real sorry it turned out that way. Uh. If you could leave, that would be great. The monastery belongs to one of our mates now." She shouted to be heard through the heavy door and shrugged.

[zabbarot]

Ioseph

Ioseph just stood there head in hand.

"While I appreciate your honesty that was definitely a bit much. I would like to give her the chance to leave in peace. It's the least we can do since she helped us, however unwittingly."

He strode up to the door and knocked a second time. After a moment he raised his voice so he could be heard clearly through the heavy door.

"Thaena, I want to give you the chance to leave here unharmed. I have no ill will towards you. Aeterparax threatened our home and our loved ones, which I am certain you can understand. He was too proud to consider surrender and chose his fate. If you leave now you can go in peace."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

And if you don't leave now, it'll be in pieces, Cassandra thought to herself. She was leaning against the wall a few paces down the hallway. Rolling her eyes at the production, Cassandra gave Ioseph a look of impatience. "You might mention that he was probably just using her," she mouthed.

[Nefarion Xid]

A few outlying farmers caught sight of the party's return to Belhaim. A heavily armed group was always worth a bit of gawking, the dragon's head definitely made braving the chill easier. Balanced on Kiyoko's shoulder, Svangi stared dumbly at the gathering onlookers. With his jaw nearly pulverized, a blue tongue dangled through the gap in bone and teeth. Most of the farmers yelled to their families, stopped what they were doing and pursued. Some ran ahead to alert the town.

Someone at the Devy Estate must have spotted them from the road. By the time they arrived at the Baroness' front door with the lady herself hanging at the doorway, one hand covering her mouth. She hadn't bothered to put up her hair or find her rouge. At length, her hand came away and she looked somewhat bemused. "That's ... that's no wizard."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Indeed, the monastery was wizard-free. We found a dragon pretending to be a slightly bigger dragon." The tiefling let the head down with a grunt. "And the dragon's lackeys, of course. I think Tulwin dragged one of 'em back here already. The rest were killed or chased off."

[Nefarion Xid]

Devy laughed in spite of herself. "Yes, Deputy Tulwin apprised me of the situation. I'm relieved that Master Kell was telling the truth. It's been a strange few days and I wasn't quite sure what to believe."

"This is the thing responsible for Aeteperax's reappearance?" Rhetorical. "Then you've done the barony a tremendous service. You have my most sincere thanks."

Turning to one of her men, she told him in a loud aside to, "Run into town and tell them what's happened. Having Nilos break out the festival beer. I think we'll celebrate Crystalhue a bit early."

She made a token attempt at remaining aloof and stoic, but her smile continued to betray her.

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

The young wizard bowed before the Baroness as she showered them with praise. Once the head of the beast was presented to one of her men for proper preparation and mounting, he stepped forward and pulled free Master Hunclay's ring.

"The danger is past, and so too my lease on Master Hunclay's ring. I thank you, Baroness Devy, for the help it provided. May Belhaim never again know such trouble."

He smiled, extending his hand palm upwards so she might reclaim her property.

[Nefarion Xid]

The Baroness paused with her fingers over the ring, a debate playing across her face. After a moment she nodded and plucked it gently from Elias' hand. "Yes, of course. Master Frist shall be glad to have all of his cousins effects unspoiled." She spared a sly smile for Elias, which would have been uncharacteristic under normal circumstances.

"You'll be knighted. You and your companions," she said after a confident breath. "It's only proper that dragon slayers have the title. I cannot think of any greater service to one's realm. Land too, if you'll have it. Belhaim needs protectors. If you'll make this your home, you'll have grand estates, I promise." A wan smile. "Every town needs a wizard."

"As for you two," she addressed the women after the men had passed some congratulatory looks. "I believe Bellett has words for you. Though you'll be relieved to know that your charges have been dropped. I'm to understand the alleged victim has made an alleged recovery. The Count reappeared and left for Galt yesterday after explaining the situation to the deputy."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"I am afraid I cannot stay indefinitely," was the response of Cassandra, now Lady Vallas in her own right as a knight of the realm. "Though I am grateful for your offer. My path lies forward, though I would not mind stopping here again in the future, should time and circumstances permit. I would not take land only to have it lie fallow through years of neglect, and I gave up that sort of thing when I left the Fog Peaks," she explained. "Besides, you already have a town druid. I do thank you, truly, particularly for the knighthood. It is rather pleasant to be recognized for one's own merits, after all. Still, I shall stay some weeks, perhaps as long as a few months, at least until travel improves."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Her congratulatory smile to Elias at hearing of his new title and estate was sincere though it froze upon her face after hearing the news of Count Valere. To say this was an unexpected turn of events would be an understatement and she struggled to keep her face neutral as she nodded at the old noble.

"Thank you Lady Devy. I will see Deputy Bellett right away." Her forehead was creased with concentration as she strove to casually saunter away from the group with Kiyoko. She remained silent, though she was practically bursting with confusion. Once they were out of earshot she grabbed Kiyoko's arm.

"Whaaaat??" Was all she could manage as they approached the barracks.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead



The Baroness paused with her fingers over the ring, a debate playing across her face. After a moment she nodded and plucked it gently from Elias' hand. "Yes, of course. Master Frist shall be glad to have all of his cousins effects unspoiled." She spared a sly smile for Elias, which would have been uncharacteristic under normal circumstances.

"You'll be knighted. You and your companions," she said after a confident breath. "It's only proper that dragon slayers have the title. I cannot think of any greater service to one's realm. Land too, if you'll have it. Belhaim needs protectors. If you'll make this your home, you'll have grand estates, I promise." A wan smile. "Every town needs a wizard."

"As for you two," she addressed the women after the men had passed some congratulatory looks. "I believe Bellett has words for you. Though you'll be relieved to know that your charges have been dropped. I'm to understand the alleged victim has made an alleged recovery. The Count reappeared and left for Galt yesterday after explaining the situation to the deputy."

At the mention of knighthood, Hammmerhead actually looked slightly embarrassed.

"It was nothing, my Lady. It was enough to help everyone out - to say nothing about how I get to brag about how I slew a dragon for years to come." Hammerhead grinned. "As for the land, well, I'm a ramblin'dwarf, through and through, and I've still more of the world to see. Although, it might be nice to have a place to come back to, given Highhelm's probably not the best at the moment. I'll have to think on it some more. In fact..."

He looked toward the burgeoning town, as people began to set up for the celebration.

"I think I'll go and find some people interested in celebrating. Time's like these someone's bound to have rolled out an ale cask."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

The tiefling grinned thinly at Ellarie's outburst, though the smile didn't reach her eyes. "Death is less permanent than anyone wants to admit. There are ways to beat it, at least for a while. One time, my grandfather was smote into nonexistence by the goddess Shizuru and still came back." She looked up into the distance, clearly thinking it over. "I believe... the most likely explanation is that the power that brought him back was economic or political. Eight, ten, twelve thousand gold in the right hands could purchase such a thing. The Pathfinder Society, the Lantern Lodge... there are probably a dozen organizations that would take such a commission before we ever got into religions." She smiled more reassuringly at Ellarie. "It would be simple enough to purchase a sort of insurance for his journey. They would monitor his status from afar; after his death, they would hunt down his corpse with simple divinations and bring him back to life. An expensive solution, but not a complicated one. It would explain why he wasn't eager to seek revenge or redress - the likelihood of us killing him again would be too high, and perhaps he doesn't have another waiting resurrection."

Kiyoko shrugged. "In any case, I can't picture a man capable of bringing himself back to life with raw magical power losing to us in a fight. Since he seems to be content to leave things as they are, I'm content to let him go get beheaded in Galt... and I'm downright eager to find out what Bellett has to say. Tulwin too. It'll be amusing to watch him wave his gun at me again."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Her eyes cast a doubtful glance at Kiyoko. She hadn't heard of such things as adventure insurance. She was unsure if it wouldn't make one more apt to recklessness if one was assured of not dying. At least permanently. Not that she doubted her friend's words or greater experience in the world.

"I don't know, we did kill a dragon." She grinned as the tiefling doubted their prowess, though agreed with her other point.

"I quite like my head, I'm not keen to see if there's a magic strong enough to reattach it." She rubbed her neck even as she laughed at her friend's eagerness to confront Bellett and Yagenas again.

"They are a handsome pair, aren't they?" She pretended to misunderstand the reason behind Kiki's eagerness.

"Did you want Bellett or Yagenas?" She waggled her eyebrows and leered, though her lecherous grin broke as she failed to keep a straight face and broke into a laugh that wasn't quite hysterical.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Handsome, maybe, but terribly disappointing." The Tiefling stopped in her tracks, looking around to make sure they weren't observed before dragging Ellarie - as gently as she could - between two buildings. "Ellarie, do you truly want to know why I act like this? I'm well aware it isn't normal, or even sane. Taunting authority, the cavalier attitude about life and death, the condescending mien toward those I'm confronting, the general insouciance to danger? How it's possible for me to know and suspect that magics I've never seen in person are potentially in play and yet still think that confessing to a murder while the body isn't cold yet was a good plan?"

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Her lingering giggles dissolved as her friend dragged her out of sight. Ellarie stared at her quizzically, her eyebrows raised in surprise.

"I thought you just didn't give a damn." She grinned and nodded her head.

"Tell me." She leaned against one of the buildings with her arms crossed and waited curiously.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"No no no," Kiyoko laughed and spun, taking a couple of steps before turning back. "No, just the opposite. I do care. I'm very curious. I keep making jokes about Grandfather - he's dead now, although as we've just established, that doesn't always stick - but he was a powerful Wind Yai Oni... a, uh, evil and corrupted spirit of storms. I was born as a tool for his plans, you see, and on those occasions that he remembered that I existed, he would train me in his... philosophy for how the world works." She planted a hand on one hip, using the other to gesture. "I'm not digging for sympathy here - others have had it worse - but part of that conditioning was petitioning all the bad boy gods of Tian Xia to bestow a powerful destiny on me, chief among them Fumeyoshi, goddess of jealousy and spite."

She grinned. "This... has no effect on my personality whatsoever. But things do tend to go my way, as you've seen. Eventually I was able to free myself from Grandfather's influence, but the destiny stays. When danger approaches, when backed into a corner... it's like I'm stuck in a dream. I don't want to die, but I feel like I have to convince myself that I can." Kiyoko frowned. "And it gets worse than that. After leaving, I found out something disturbing about his teachings. He said life was wasted on mortals, that honor and fidelity are tools the strong use to control the weak, and that most people only pretend at nobility and righteousness. And more often than not I find out that he's right!"

The tiefling waved grandly, taking in roughly all of Belhaim. "Take this small town. Quiet little place, isn't it? Down-to-earth guardsmen, a crotchety old wizard, a baroness looking out for the people... but no, the wizard is delving into the universe's dark mysteries and cutting deals with awful dragons. We killed a guy, and for just a moment I thought the guardsman was going to take a stand on it... but then Tulwin backed down when I showed the slightest bit of resistance coupled with a comforting bit of duplicity. He and that inquisitor didn't even bother questioning it. It was easier for them to believe, so they did. When Bellett caught up to Tulwin, he suddenly remembered he was a guardsman again (presumably Bellett threatened to take his gun away), and they came to arrest me... only to back down again when it looked like they might have trouble. Their dedication to the principles that make them better than me only lasts as long as there's no resistance. That's why I don't care for either of them, pretty face or no. No matter what they say, they fight for the strongest side, not the most legitimate or the most honorable. That's prime minion material, but not very interesting."

"And it's like that everywhere. Everywhere. From Kasai to Ordu-Aganhei to Kalsgard to Absalom to Oppara to here. Forget the Count, the convenient and simple narrative is that the heroes are heroic and slew the dragon because he was bad. Even the wise baroness is letting it go. Pragmatism wins again. I can get on board with that, I really can, but it's the pretension that bugs me. For the others, the dragon's death wasn't heroic. That was desperate. Motivating, but not an indicator of great character. You, though..." Kiyoko's look turned sly and she shook a finger at the skald. "You and Elias had a way out, didn't you? You could have given up the books, sold out the town, but instead you told the dragon to go to hell. You went from screaming and throwing up when the homunculus melted to hurling insults into the face of a legendary beast. That is rare and interesting. That is an exception to Grandfather Anamurumon's rules. Half the reason I stayed was to see what you two would do next."

She sighed. "So there you have it. I know I rambled there a bit, but I think I got my point across. I don't want to watch the world burn or any such cliche thing, but I do want to find out which parts of it are flammable. So... I poke dragons. I throw rocks at hornet's nests, use the wrong fork at the dinner table, question dogma, and break laws. I take 'do not enter' as a challenge rather than a demand, and I'm willing to milk this 'destiny' for all its worth. Maybe you're tired of that, but if you're not... I'm going to be looking for trouble the moment I find a decent deal on how to spend all this money, and you're welcome to join me."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

A delighted grin stretched across her face at Kiyoko's invitation to join her though her expression turned thoughtful as she considered the tiefling's words.

"I have found in my limited experience, a funny thing about thinking you're better than somebody else. As soon as you do, you're not. Mind your betters! Care about my honor! Save my town from dragons!" A resentful look of disdain crossed her face.

"It's a fine edge we walk between what will keep us up at night, and what we have convinced ourselves that we've done our best at. I doubt Bellett or Yagenas will lose any sleep over us. Or would have even if we had died to the dragon. I helped kill that dragon to atone for a man who didn't even stay dead." She was almost annoyed despite her initial relief at hearing of the Count's miraculous recovery.

"You have felt the power of the rage I hold inside of me in battle. That is when I can let it loose, but it is always there. It's like a bucket." She made a gesture at her chest.

"Inside me. And every wrong I have experienced, real or imagined adds another drop in the bucket. When my parents cast my Andun away. When he died by the riverside. Every time I've been told to "Mind my betters!". When I've had to steal or lay with a man just to eat. When a fellow mercenary forced himself on me and when I killed him for it." Her head lifted in a defiant tilt. She knew that Kiyoko had no idea what she was talking about but it mattered little.

"I own those actions. Nobody else. Just as I decided to take on The Count's likeness to find that chest. Oh sure, it crossed my mind to blame it all on you." She threw her hands in the air in mock pleading.

"The big bad tiefling made me do it!" She dropped her hands and rolled her eyes.

"The real chances for honor aren't what you can point at to declare to everybody how honorable you are. They pass quietly, unnoticed. Fighting the dragon..."

"That wasn't honor, as you said. That was rage pure and simple. My bucket overflowed and I attempted to shout him out of the sky." The smile returned to her face, though it was softer than before.

"My only regret is that you and the dwarf got to it before I did. And besides, that homunculus goo was disgusting." Her face turned green.

"I'm going to be sick now just thinking about it." She laughed.

"I can't say I know Elias's motives. He seems like a good man." Her smile grew wistful.

"It is a shame he has so much reason to stay here..." She sighed and looked back at Kiyoko.

"As for me, I had set to be leaving at first thaw. I would be more than happy to have you for a travel companion. You're the closest thing to a friend I've got." The playful grin returned to her face as she pushed herself away from the wall with her foot.

"Now let's go get our apology from these fine gentlemen! Can you believe they suspected us of murder? The heroes of Belhaim? How dare they!" Her smile was the picture of innocence but it did not penetrate the mischievous gleam in her eyes.

[Nefarion Xid]

Kiyoko & Ellarie, Later ...

"Yes, as far as the Sheriff is concerned, there are no charges. Earning the enmity of the local innkeeper is not a crime. But, as our "victim" is alive and well and verifiably free of enchantment or illusion (we checked), there's really no reason to pursue this further."

Bellett had started when they entered the barracks, taking to his feet and taking a half step towards his crossbow before the pair could spit out that the dragon was dead and the Count was, apparently, not.

"The Count did instruct that his chainmail was to be left with Ms Oren, but that as all he asked. He was terribly pale and half frozen, naked from the waist up. Not a drop of blood on him. Apart from a shiver and perhaps embarrassment, he seemed hale. Far me it from me to insinuate what business he had, a nobleman, dressed like that in the snow."

A terribly thin and dangerously close to mirthful smile formed at the corners of his mouth.

"Anemic, the poor man. He explained that the reason you might have thought him dead was that he had ... " Bellet paused to glance over to his report, "Fainted due to the enthusiasm and extreme vigor of your shared passions. Ah, but what man has the constitution or time for two women at once? I certainly haven't."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

A blush crept up her cheeks as she realized what had been insinuated.

"He thought he could take on a tiefling and a skald could you imagine?" She chuckled.

"Dream big and all that. We're going to get going then. We have the celebration to attend. For you know, killing a dragon. Well thanks for your time." She gestured to herself and Kiyoko and began to edge to the door.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"I don't doubt it," Kiyoko shot back with a grin of her own. "But I'd recommend starting with one. Crawl before walking and all that. I'll certainly be more gentle with him next time."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Sometime during the celebration, Cassandra found herself approaching the dwarf, Yandeath, if she'd caught his name correctly. "Enjoying Belhaim's hospitality, master Dwarf? I am glad to see you survived our battle with the dragon. That was quite the mighty death blow you dealt him." She took a sip from her wine glass and eyed him over the rim. "If I remember right, you said something about coming this way on an archaeological expedition. You have my sympathies with regard to your lost colleagues, and I propose a toast to them, and to Eren Drakos." A pause. "But I have a proposition for you. Once winter starts to give way to spring and the thaw begins, I intend to make my way westward by one of two paths. Either down the river to Arenway where more of my fellow druids can be found, or northwest to Wispil. After one of those two points, on to Bellis and further on into Andoran. I have...well, let us simply call it druid business to attend to." Cassandra took another sip, using the opportunity to gauge the dwarf's potential interest in what she was drawing toward. Hoping that she had little to fear from the mercenary when out on the road, she was willing to chance a business relationship with the bearded fellow. "And if I had to guess, I would say you intend on seeking out some or all of the destinations in that journal of your companion. What do you say to a joint effort? The roads are safer where two travel together. With your martial prowess, my familiarity with the natural world, and Conall's sense of smell to sniff out danger, I suggest we might make an effective team. What do you think?"

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

As Ellarie and Kiyoko moved to escape the garrison, the door opened before they could reach for it. Outside stood Elias, looking somewhat surprised to find the two women inside, though a smile spread across his face at the sight of them nonetheless. Seeing the deputy standing behind them, he nodded respectfully.

"Deputy. I've just come with a gift for one of your prisoners, if you'll allow me?"

Striding towards the cell holding the captive kobold, Elias reached into an inner pocket and pulled free one of the green scales they'd pried free of Aeteperax's - Szangi's - broken corpse. Pointing the outermost taper of the scale towards the kobold, he rapped it slowly over the bars.

"Bad news, my friend. It seems your god will not be descending to smite us for our hubris. You get to rot for what you did to our people, just like I said you would."

With a flick of his wrist, Elias threw the scale at the kobold's feet, his smile turned cold.

[Nefarion Xid]

Barracks

Roaghaz's had been rendered harmless with less cruel methods, thanks to Letha's ingenuity. The green scaled kobold now had oven mitts stuck to both hands with pine tar. While he could feed himself, managing the delicate gestures required to cast spells was impossible inside the stiff quilting. He paused to stare daggers at Elias, which was the same look he gave anyone who spoke in his presence. After one glance downward to the scale, he sighed, "Aeteperax is a black dragon, you twit. I suppose they all look alike to you?"

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

His smile melting into a look of condescending pity, Elias shook his head.

"So he didn't even have the decency to demand your service in his true form. Even the grioth were allowed to see him for what he truly was. It's one thing to be tricked into worshiping an overambitious young dragon, but to be tricked into worshiping an illusion? It's no wonder your tribe turned on you."

Elias turned away, apparently finished with the deluded sorcerer.

"Ellarie, Kiyoko, buy you a drink? It seems an eternity since we shared a peaceful meal."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

As the celebration wore on, Hammerhead, to his disappointment, found that there were no comely dwarven lasses in Belhaim - and that, in point of fact, he was the only dwarf in town at all. There were, however, no shortage of people willing to sit, drink, listen to tall tales, and sing drinking songs. And so it was that, seven beers in, he had begun another one of his favorites when Cassandra approached.

"I love to have a beer with Patrick
I love to have a beer with Pat
We drink in moderation
And it wouldn't really matter if the beer was flat
We drink at the Town and Country
Where the atmosphere is great
I love to have a beer with Patrick
'Cause Patrick's me mate!"




Cassandra

Sometime during the celebration, Cassandra found herself approaching the dwarf, Yandeath, if she'd caught his name correctly. "Enjoying Belhaim's hospitality, master Dwarf? I am glad to see you survived our battle with the dragon. That was quite the mighty death blow you dealt him." She took a sip from her wine glass and eyed him over the rim. "If I remember right, you said something about coming this way on an archaeological expedition. You have my sympathies with regard to your lost colleagues, and I propose a toast to them, and to Eren Drakos." A pause. "But I have a proposition for you. Once winter starts to give way to spring and the thaw begins, I intend to make my way westward by one of two paths. Either down the river to Arenway where more of my fellow druids can be found, or northwest to Wispil. After one of those two points, on to Bellis and further on into Andoran. I have...well, let us simply call it druid business to attend to." Cassandra took another sip, using the opportunity to gauge the dwarf's potential interest in what she was drawing toward. Hoping that she had little to fear from the mercenary when out on the road, she was willing to chance a business relationship with the bearded fellow. "And if I had to guess, I would say you intend on seeking out some or all of the destinations in that journal of your companion. What do you say to a joint effort? The roads are safer where two travel together. With your martial prowess, my familiarity with the natural world, and Conall's sense of smell to sniff out danger, I suggest we might make an effective team. What do you think?"
As Cassandra came over, Hammerhead gave out a hoot of triump and raised his tankard at the mention of slaying the dragon, but sobered up as she mentioned the death of his colleagues and Eren. "...indeed. A toast to absent friends and adventurers." Delicately, he clinked his tankard against Cassandra's glass. "Speakin' of your friend, any idea what happens to him? I thought I overheard some of you debating it earlier."

Once Cassandra made her primary proposition, Hammerhead paid closer attention, tracing a finger around the rim of his tankard, and a smile crossed his face. He drained the remainder, and replied.

"You guess correctly. I am wanting to check out the locations in Victoria's journal, and as it so happens, a few of them are on your way. And since it's already proven we work well together, I think it will work quite nicely. Barkeep! Another ale!"

Taking the new tankard, he raised it toward Cassandra. "Let us seal it with a drink and some more merry making, in the traditional dwarven way."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Still flustered from the unexpected tone of the meeting with Bellett, Ellarie was caught by surprise by Elias's sudden appearance. She returned his smile however, and hoped that he had come too late to hear their conversation with the Deputy. Despite wishing to exit the barracks as quickly as possible only seconds before, she turned and watched with interest as Elias confronted the Kobold magician. She was impressed as the scale of the Kobold's master was thrown at the creature's feet. She hadn't seen Elias as so.. imperious before.

She smiled happily at her friend wizard, made happier yet by the promise of dinner.

"You had me at hot meal." She laughed and fell into step besides him, scarcely daring to believe her luck. The threat of death and imprisonment passed unfulfilled, and new friends. She wound her arm through Elias's and looked to Kiyoko, smiling, warmed by the thought of being invited to travel with her. Why, she barely even recalled the Baroness's slight. She hardly cared at all.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Incinerated and sent to Oppara in an urn, I believe," Cassandra responded. A slight waver sounded in her voice, but she held her composure and did not falter. "I wish I had had the chance to know him better." She imitated Hammerhead in his toast and sighed, a smile quickly returning to her lips. "In his honor, I propose a contract for our endeavor. We need not discuss the particulars just now, but it would perhaps be prudent to discuss what each of us is expected to contribute to the venture, and to sign it in the presence of a member of the Temple of Abadar. I trust that we have not given each other reason for distrust, but let me be frank: I am a single woman about to go traipsing about the countryside - and perhaps across borders - with a mercenary. I wish certain things to be understood, if you catch my meaning. I appreciate my privacy, for one thing."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

The Tiefling snorted. "I would love a drink and a meal. Think I should apologize to Talia?"

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

The hand that wasn't holding Elias's arm was brought to her face as she gasped. She had completely forgot about the Count's lover in her excitement and confusion. What ever did she believe had happened? Surely if Valere had told anybody the truth, it would have been her.

"Perhaps we both should..." Her voice trailed off hesitantly.

"After dinner?" She looked to Kiyoko hopefully, not wishing to delay the promise of a hot meal and a drink any longer than necessary.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Well, I was concerned about who we'd be getting the hot meal from. If it's Talia and she still hates us, it might have an extra, mucus-based ingredient..."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

"Or worse." Suddenly the prospect of being poisoned by the wily Count Valere's lover didn't seem so far-fetched.

"Maybe we just shouldn't eat anything she gives us. Ever." She doubted an apology for either killing Valere or merely threesome-ing him to prostration was likely to set things right with the hot tempered innkeeper.

"If you really want to.." She shrugged, there was little Talia could do to them since they'd been exonerated by Bellett himself.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

The tiefling and the skald made their way to the inn... where Talia greeted them warmly, showing little to no recognition. Their beer came additive-free.

Kiyoko made it clear, from the fact that she said nothing about it and ordered several additional drinks, that this one might be outside her pay grade. Still, she decided to let living counts lie and made no mention of it in the days to come, arranging for enchantments from Elias and Cassandra, making inquiries and plans concerning some Qadiran Expat who'd probably been inspired by tales of a legendary figure with forty thieves, and Belhaim continued on. Perhaps things would never be quite the same again... but then again, when dragons make demands, things are bound to change.

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Curiosity was always her weakness, though it was weeks before she petitioned Kiyoko to go and have a look for the Count's body with her. They set out under cover of darkness and meandered on their way there, cautious of being seen or of leaving a direct trail to the burial site. Or what had been the burial site. The hole they had dug was open. The dirt was clearly flung out a ways as to exhume a body. The hole sat empty but for the old rusty chest they had found on their previous adventure. Ellarie chewed on her lip, staring at the chest as a feeling of dread crept over her.

"I'm going to open it." She spoke to Kiyoko, though the words were mostly to motivate herself into action. She kneeled before the chest and opened it, it was not locked. Inside there was a square piece of parchment. She removed it with a cautious hand and held it up so that both of them could look at it together. A cardinal drawn in blood decorated the page.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/2e/38/4f/2e384fc9198fe887c46bbb858df3d152.jpg

Ell's hand shook slightly as her breath caught in her throat.

"Cardinals are non-migratory." She whispered. Not even unto death.

"Is it worrisome that I sort of want to track the Count down?" She tore her eyes away from the bloody page and turned them on her friend.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Not at all!" The tiefling chirped. "I love it. He's telling us he's not going anywhere, and PS he's prettier than us. Now that's a man. I kinda want to track him down too."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Kiyoko's words surprised laughter from Ellarie. She regained control of herself with some effort and she wiped a tear from her eye.

"He really is quite the intriguing specimen." She agreed, her eyes still gleaming from laughter.

"Shall we raid Elias's wine cellar tonight?" She asked as she stood, tucking the bloody page into a pocket carefully and turned to leave the mystery of the Count behind them.

"Oh hey I been writing a song about our time in Belhaim." She began to sing as they walked away.

"They tried to make me go to prison
I said no, no, no.
Yes I've been bad, but when it comes back,
I say no, no, no.
I ain't got the time
And they can't prove I've done the crime.
They tried to make me go to prison
But I won't go, go, go."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Ha! nice. I can't wait to hear the finished version." Kiyoko looked to the old Hunclay manor. "I'm all for raiding the wine cellar, but we'll need to watch it. We already have a reputation as man-eaters; we don't need to get found drunk and cuddling in the erotica room."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

"Hahahahaha.." She thread her arm through Kiyoko, a cheerful spring to her step.

"If we do, can I finally call you Kiki?"

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"If we do, I think you're obligated to. I'd have to work on some sugary pet name for you, of course. Teapot, perhaps? Skalding hot?" She snorted. "I mean, if I'm going to generate scandalous rumors, might as well do it properly."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

"Skaldbottom?" She could barely get the word out before she burst into peals of laughter.

"Maybe not Skaldbottom." She was overcome with giggles all the way back to the Manor.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead



Cassandra

"Incinerated and sent to Oppara in an urn, I believe," Cassandra responded. A slight waver sounded in her voice, but she held her composure and did not falter. "I wish I had had the chance to know him better." She imitated Hammerhead in his toast and sighed, a smile quickly returning to her lips. "In his honor, I propose a contract for our endeavor. We need not discuss the particulars just now, but it would perhaps be prudent to discuss what each of us is expected to contribute to the venture, and to sign it in the presence of a member of the Temple of Abadar. I trust that we have not given each other reason for distrust, but let me be frank: I am a single woman about to go traipsing about the countryside - and perhaps across borders - with a mercenary. I wish certain things to be understood, if you catch my meaning. I appreciate my privacy, for one thing."

At the mention of contracts, Hammerhead's demeanour soured.

"Gah! Contracts! I left home to get away from contracts, Cassandra. Always stuck behind that blasted stall, hawking polearms and antiques to passersby..."

His visage then grew more serious.

"But in all seriousness, if you're really worried about that sort of thing, I'm willing to sign whatever you draw up. I can swear by Trudd that you've nothing to worry about from me, though - my Ma and Pa raised me well enough that I know how to conduct myself appropriately. As far as contributing, well, you help me out with my quest, I help you out with yours, we do an even share of any loot we find. Sound good?"

[Jade_Tarem]

Story Time
Team EEK and the Cardinal Sin
(Takes place right before the Dragon's actual Demand)

Where seduction failed, greed prevailed, and Ellarie had sealed the deal. "How about three hundred or half the loot, whichever is more?"

"...well, alright," Count Valere bit his lip. "Whereabouts are we going?" The wandering Skald had attempted to get into the Chelaxian's confidences, then his pants, and now had mostly settled for a business arrangement. She, Kiyoko, and Elias had spent the entire morning and early afternoon chasing over Belhaim, looking for the chest of goods that they knew was missing from the Hunclay Manor, but hadn't come up with much except an encounter with a pixie and a deeply-buried chest with an old boot in it.

And socks. Musn't forget the socks.

"Oh it's not real far out. But I can't tell you where it is exactly now can I." Ellarie looked at him slyly. "I'm too smart for that." She seemed pleased with herself and tapped the side of her head.

"Yes, I suspected as much. Well, can't blame me for trying then." Valere finished his tea and stood up, "Talia, darling, I'm going for a walk with my new friend ... em ... ?"

"Ellarie, pleased to make your acquaintance."

"Count Valere. Don't mention it." The count flashed her a big smile before moving towards the counter. "Talia, I'll be hungry by the time we get back. You'll have something ready for me, won't you? Lovely, we won't be long."

"Oh a Count, how charming. I'm going to run up and stow my lute. I'll be right back. Don't disappear on me." The skald winked and ran up the stairs. Ellarie found her new friends out of earshot - the tiefling... and the wizard. "Kiyoko," she hissed, "he doesn't want to have sex with me; what do I do!?"

"Can you get him somewhere remote?"

"Yes, I'm going to take him where we found that old chest, north of Hunclay's manor. Can you two meet us there?"

Elias nodded, "Yes."

"Ok wish me luck!" She stowed her lute and ran down the stairs. "I'm ready for our walk, let's go."

He patted the black satchel on his belt "I have my effects." and followed her out.

Ellarie led him purposefully, but not hurriedly, up the Canteclure road and over the bridge, past the manor and up to where the road turned north, following it until it forked past the Witch Tower. "Ok, now we have to go into the woods. We're really close now."

"I haven't seen much of the town. I confess, I'm rather anemic and I'm so ... well, I spend quite a lot of time in bed."

"Oh, you poor dear. Its a rather small, lean town I gather. But the people are nice enough."

"It is sort of picturesque. Far more green than where I grew up."

"Picturesque! Just so." Ellarie grinned. "Where did you grow up?"

"Oh, a terribly depressing part of Cheliax. Slightly more depressing than the rest of it."

She laughed lightly, "Is that why you chose to travel? I don't blame you, really."

"Yes, compared to the political climate of Cheliax, I should find Galt quite dull. What about you, Ellarie? Did you grow up here?"

"No I didn't, I grew up in a family of wanderers and became one myself. My parents are both bards, I got my gift of song from them." She eyed the old oak tree and stopped. Now it was a waiting game.

"And if you'll be my bluebird returning,
Then I will be your evergreen,
Standing tall on your horizon,
Guiding you home to me
Guiding you home to me"

"...see?"

"I do see," he smiles. "You have a lovely voice."

The smile she returned was genuinely pleased. "Thank you."

Kiyoko's heavy footsteps appeared in the snow directly before the count, "Free hugs!"

The man in blue backed away from her footsteps, whipping out his rapier. "Oh come on! Not again!" He took a stab at the woman, but the invisibility spell Elias had slapped on her prevented the hit from landing. The spell broke down as the woman proceeded to aggressively glomp him in a manner that might have been adorable were she not a six foot tall armored tiefling that smelled of blood. It didn't take her long to wrestle him to the ground.

He grunted and struggled anyway. "Oh gods, being right sucks!" He gave up struggling when Kiyoko managed to pin him, even as Ellarie kicked his weapon away. Before long, he was properly tied up. "Do I know you?"

Kiyoko made a 'more or less' gesture with one hand. "We're about to become well acquainted."

"I was going to put out eventually! There's really no need for the rope. It's not going to help my performance!"

"Ha! I figured you needed all the help you could get, anemic man. I'm actually just interested in your late night adventures to the manor." She shrugged after she finished tying him. "We know we were there, and then you were there, and then we were there again but there was a treasure chest missing."

Ellarie mused silently that she might have bedded the Count after all. It was a real self-esteem booster.

"What? No, I never even set foot in the place! The locals went on about the man being a devil worshiping wizard; I'm not suicidal!"

"Ah, then your skulking about town was for...?"

"... birdwatching. I love cardinals." He seemed completely sincere.

"Well, that's a damn shame. If we knew you wouldn't go to the authorities to describe the theft of the chest, we could call this a wash and go get the treasure before freeing you. As it is, we have to kill you to keep this quiet." Kiyoko drew her sword.

Valere shrieked, "What bloody chest!? I don't know what you're talking about you crazy bitch!"

Ellarie bounced excitedly as the count tried to inchworm away. "Oh, Kiyoko! We don't have to kill him do we? He's so nice and I'm sure he'd understand our mistake and not go to the authorities. Isn't that right? Tell her!"

"Maaaaybe if he gives us the real reason for his mystery wanderings... and not the made up one about the off-season birds."

"CARDINALS AREN'T MIGRATORY YOU MISERABLE HARPY!"

This is the best interrogation, Kiyoko mused.

"Fine! Fine (this is fine!) I'll tell you the truth... I was paid to go into the house. Back in Yanmass, a man with a red hat was referred to me. He offered me a thousand gold to break into this wizard's house and fetch some books for him. He said I could keep whatever else I could shove in my bag while I was there. But the tomes were cleaned out when I got there and the front door hacked off its hinges like it was amateur hour at the thieves' guild!"

Kiyoko looked offended. "Well, that assumes that it was thieving and not a professional pillaging job, now doesn't it?" Valere's only respose was to glare. "So anyway, where's the stuff you took?"

"And what did you end up taking?" The skald chimed in.

Elias chose that moment to arrive as well. "A man with a red hat... do tell me more."

The count grit his teeth, "He was using a hat of disguise, so I don't know anything about him. Find the sod with the magic hat if you want to know more."

"So, you were sent down here before Hunclay died. Brave man, to take on a job to rob a master conjurer."

"I dunno about that. I mean, I mostly did it out of ignorance." The tiefling shrugged, a gesture that was matched by Valere. "Still waiting on that treasure location, man."

"Or what, you'll slit my throat?" Kiyoko cheefully opened her mouth to reply, but was cut off. "...famous last words. Nevermind." The count looked pleadingly over at Ellarie.

"Don't look at her. She can't actually stop me. She can make me feel maybe a little bit bad after that, but that doesn't help you."

"I can't control her, I'm sorry. Just do what she says please, I don't want to watch you die."

"Fine. Your chest is with Talia. If you want it, you'll have to rob a sweet widow."

"Sweet, that'll be easy. Especially since it isn't actually hers, either."

Ellarie leaned over. "When are you leaving town, Count?"

"I'm good with a sword, but I can't very well defend myself against an entire pack of wolves. The road to Galt is hell, so I'm told."

"So is Galt, for the gentry."

"And it might be hard to acquire a horse considering I'M BEING ROBBED."

Elias, facing away from the man and musing over his options, was the first to spot three winged figures speeding toward the town, and squinted to identify them.

Ellarie shrugged. "It's a pack of wolves vs her. Take your pick."

"Are the wolves going to spread misinformation about ornithology?"

The tiefling's smart remark was cut off by the wizard. "Kiyoko, we're out of time. Something's approaching town." Elias turned and hurried in that direction. "In the air!"

Kiyoko grunted and shook her head. Rushing this at the end was not good, but the town itself was about to come under attack... "Well, Mister Ornthologist, it's been fun - for us - but we're out of questions and out of time. I was always more of a swallow fan." With that, in one swift motion, she stabbed him through the heart. He groaned and doubled over, dead.

"Oh no," For a moment, Ellarie was shocked. "We didn't have to kill him."

"I didn't think you were going to kill him."

"You didn't?" Kiyoko looks at him blankly. "You brought him out to a pre-dug grave site. Super convenient." Kiyoko waved them both over and began systematically looting the body, and eventually they began to aid her. "What did you think was going to happen after we tackled him and squeezed him for information about hot merchandise?"

"It's not like a thief can go to the authorities! I thought, you know, we scare him away..."

She shook her head at his response, "That's betting a lot on the fear and/or forgiveness of the guy who robbed your old home and then gave you sh*t about it. All it would take is one moment of him being more angry than scared, and then the guard is up everyone's ass. Hell, it'd actually hurt us worse than him, since he just robbed the house and we did that and assaulted him and robbed him."

"Well, yes, you're right, but...murder?" The wizard huffed before running off toward town.

Kiyoko sighed. "It's just a word for killing someone the important people would rather you not."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"That seems quite equitable, yes," confirmed the druidess. "Now, I have a task given me by the Baroness yet to complete, but I should be prepared to move on once the roads are safe enough. Did you have any kind of time frame in mind? I do not know what kind of experience you have traveling through the forest, but there are all manner of delays and dangers we could run across. You are sure you would not rather go by river?"

[Nefarion Xid]

Yub Nub

Scarcely a half hour after the return of the dragon slayers, Belhaim had thrown together a celebration. Of course, there are only three things you really need for a party: people themselves, music and hooch. Decorations are strictly optional, but what silks and banners hadn't yet been put on display for Crystalhue were thrown up in haste as people scrambled to find the more important things in life like beer.

In the green across from the Wise Piper, Nilos Gesner and The Seven Roses, a band composed entirely of garishly dressed Shelynites, began their spontaneous concert. Shelynites were always good for for getting a party started since they didn't need liquid encouragement to drag their instruments out to the village square in winter (technically a triangle and technically still a week before the solstice) and strike up a tune. Bassy the gnome joined them before long, bringing with her a war drum and cymbals strapped to her knees. Her age and experience kept the Roses' drummer on tempo, but Nilos did occasionally struggle to be heard over the snare.

Talia Oren propped open her doors and set out a sign that declared all drinks were half off, apparently determined to continue to turn a profit despite all the casks and bottles people were drinking from their homes to share. The Baroness' guards arrived in short order with two barrels of the beer that had been brewed for Crystalhue. If every citizen in town restrained themselves to only a quarter of a gallon each, it might even last until then. The pale ale mysteriously turned bright green after a few minutes. No one was sure who the prankster responsible was, or how they'd done it, but everyone agreed it tasted the same.

Mirary Scalyn brought a tray laden with cakes and tarts, insisting that each of the slayers take one before they were gobbled up by the masses. She seemed to gush over Ioseph and Elias, going so far as to pinch their cheeks and give them a lingering hug.

Axelia the soapmaker made an appearance to hawk her wares. She pressed samples in wax paper boxes into the hands of the heroes and encouraged them to patronize her shop later. The cucumber melon soap did, at least, smell wonderful, and she insisted that the coco butter concoction would plump, firm and get rid of stretch marks all at once. This claim was challenged by the elegantly dressed town apothecary, Xemne, who insisted her tinctures could not only do all three, but cure gout as well. To be fair to raven haired beauty from Demgazi, her coppery skin was flawless.

While Ellarie listened to two simultaneous sales pitches, Kiyoko was approached by the town blacksmith, a towering half orc man with a bull's head outline stitched onto his leather apron. He said only that he, "Liked tall women," and gave her an awkward tusked smile.

Meanwhile, an impromptu archery competition had begun on Kingfisher road with several locals wanting to test their skills against Ioseph, or at least see a demonstration from the man who'd nearly killed a dragon with one arrow.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Though she partook enthusiastically with all that was offered, Cassandra spent most of the celebration by herself - or rather, in the company of Conall to whom she fed small bites of celebratory snacks - save for her discussion with the dwarf, Yandeath Hammerhead, over their future ventures together. She nodded her thanks to the soapmaker, and promised to come by both Axelia's and Xemne's shops another day, adding that she wouldn't mind purchasing products that would moisturize her skin and keep her hair silky and smooth even while adventuring out-of-doors.

[Nefarion Xid]

Medal Ceremony

Over the next few days, the Baroness met with some of the heroes in private to make arrangements for land grants. After all, it wasn't prudent to give away land to people who wouldn't spend the time or money to defend the realm. Since they were moving on, Cassandra and Yandeath were each granted a purse of 500 gold pieces. Ioseph was given the Monastery of Saint Kyerixus, along with the surrounding eighteen acres. Rocky hills and swamp surrounded most of the monastery, but a four acre plot had been leveled and cleared long ago for farming. Elias, having taken the initiative to contact Hunclay's heir and take the estate off his hands, was granted the lands north along rogue creek, as well as the site of the Witch Tower Ruins. Lady Devy seemed glad to be rid of them and mentioned she dearly hoped that Elias would do something productive with that plot after having the rubble cleared.

On the 16th, a Fireday, a ceremony was held on the steps of the Devy Estate. A sizeable crowd gathered around the hillside, though only half as many people as the impromptu celebration on the day Svangi fell. Free beer had that effect on people. This affair was formal and a bit somber. The masters of town had dressed in their best. Nilos had found a red velvet cloak, trimmed in ermine. Talia looked ravishing in a pale blue dress, though her corset contributed the most to the effect. While she didn't so much as glance at Ellarie, and there's no way she could have planned it, Ellarie felt a niggling suspicion that the innkeeper had chosen the color to overshadow her. The Sheriff was on his feet and looking rather chipper; he'd made the purchase of a handsome darkwood walking stick and demanded constant reassurance that it didn't make him look too old.

The four being honored were made to kneel. The baroness touched each on the shoulders with the family longsword and then offered over her ring to be kissed. Ioseph, already being a knight, only kissed the ring so as to pledge his loyalty. "Arise, Sir Elias, Defender of the Realm, Knight of the Order of Merit, Magus of Belhaim. Arise, Dame Cassandra, Lady Vallas, Defender of the Realm, Knight of the Order of Merit. Arise, Sir Yandeath, Defender of the Realm, Knight of the Order of Merit. Arise, Sir Ioseph, Bishop Vega of Saint Kyerixus, Taldor's Faithful Servant, Knight of the Empire, Defender of the Realm, Knight of the Order of Merit."

Token, but enthusiastic, applause followed along with the uncorking of wine.

Lady Devy's son followed behind, handing out the tokens of their new stations. All received the medal of the Order of Merit, a curved silver cross with polished onyx on a blue and green ribbon, worn on a sash or pinned to the breast. Elias is given a circular medallion with a faceted amethyst on a sturdy silver chain, the mark officially signifying him as the new town wizard. Ioseph gained livery chain of a Bishop -- each heavy golden link bore the imprint of an open hand. While he doubted Irori would approve of such a display of wealth, it would serve in the all important task of making friends and securing his place in society so that the monastery would prosper.

Around the rear of the gathered throng, Baccus the blacksmith found Kiyoko at last. With a lopsided smile, he handed over a polished iron rose. "I don't understand politics. I didn't think it was right that you didn't get knighted too. So I ... well I made you something. I hope you like it." The hulking half-orc man began to gaze at his shoes after he'd gotten out his prepared remarks.

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

She had taken special pains with her appearance for the medal ceremony even though she was not amongst those honored. She donned her new pale blue dress for the occasion and the circlet that Elias had crafted for her. She smiled brightly at her reflection, pleased at how the color of her dress complimented her eye color perfectly. She stood in the assembled crowd next to her fellow in shunning Kiyoko, with her head held high, determined to not let them see her bothered by the slight. From the corner of her eye, Talia's golden headed form came into view and Ellarie's eyes widened as she took in the innkeeper's dress. It was nearly the exact shade as her own, but more intricate in stitching and detail. The color complimented the woman's fair complexion perfectly and Ellarie's shoulders drooped a bit as though she lacked some crucial vitality in the face of Talia's splendor. No wonder Valere had wanted nothing to do with her. She thought to herself as she deliberately turned her eyes upon the awards proceedings.

She stared numbly at those that stood elevated upon the steps of the estate. She mentally shook herself out of her melancholy and plastered a smile on her face. The phony smile softened as Elias received his knighthood and medal. This was why she had come after all. To see her friend honored. He who had given her a first real home, even if temporary. She started in surprise as the crowd applauded around her and she added her token applause to the rest as the ceremony ended. She swallowed hard past the lump in her throat, and blinked rapidly. She bit her lower lip fiercely, her heart thudding with the effort it took to deny her tears. She glanced around her, but nobody had noticed her discomfort. She might as well have been invisible and she fought the sudden urge to make herself actually invisible. A faint smile that did not reach her eyes flit rapidly across her lips as the Blacksmith approached Kiyoko. She turned to the tiefling,

"I'll see you back at the manor." She muttered as she abruptly left the scene behind her, not giving into the urge to run.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

So this is what it feels like to have one's own accomplishments be recognized, Cassandra told herself. She stood with the others and then knelt when her time came to be knighted. She bowed her head as the longsword touched her shoulder, and then looked up at the Baroness, giving the older woman a genuine smile. As the woman's son followed behind to award the medals, Cassadra pinned it to her breast, twitching her cloak out of the way to keep it on display. May as well bask in the moment, she figured.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

As he had the medal slipped around his neck, Hammerhead could not help but beam with pride.

Ha! And you said that mercenary work would never amount to anything! Well, in your face, pa - I just got knighted! For slaying a dragon!

Turning to Cassandra, he grinned and nodded in congratulations before turning back to the crowd.

[Nefarion Xid]

Abadius 21st, 4717

More than six weeks had passed since Svangi was slain and Belhaim was once more a sleepy backwater town for the most part. A wind powered screwdrill now whirred away, draining the quarry day by day. When the kobolds departed in spring, it would be open for business again. In preparation for the boom, Lady Devy had dipped into the treasury and begun the process of repairing the road to Faldamont. Progress was slow, but at least the work crews no longer needed to worry about wolves after the recent hunts. Rumors still persisted that there was a big one out there, but there had been no recent attacks, nor so much as a missing goat.

News spread of the dead dragon, of course. Killing a small one was worth some talk in a small town, but an adult drew wider acclaim. A wizard had arrived in the middle of town one day by teleportation, muttering something about the Grand Lodge. He spoke with Elias for only five minutes, seemingly only to confirm that the green's name was, in fact, Svangi. After that he wished to see the head, took some measurements, made a few sketches, then vanished again without so much as a congratulations.

Talia seemed to look at Elias in a new way after his knighthood and acquisition of Hunclay's estate. At least, Elias might have noticed this had he been more attentive. Nilos had to point it out. Nilos was also kind enough to remind Elias that he was attractive and charming when he put his mind to it, and that Talia's sidelong glances had nothing to do with his new found wealth and social status. Talia was nearly as rich as he was anyway. "You could do worse, my friend." Most everyone in town had a way of calling him their friend.

True to his impression, Talia seemed to have no recollection of any confrontation with Kiyoko and Ellarie, or having met them before the day they returned from the dragon's lair. By all accounts, she was back to her normal saccharine self and no one dared mention how she'd raved about them killing a man. Once Bellett's account of how Kiyoko had merely 'exhausted' Valere and caused a terrible misunderstanding, no one gave the two so much as a dirty look. A good word from Elias put everything right. Money talks. Of course, Baccus the blacksmith only became more interested in perusing a relationship with Kiyoko.

[Nefarion Xid]

North East of Belhaim
Gadshadow Hills

Horses had a particular smell. If you wanted to track mounted men in the wilderness, you only needed to follow the smell. This was true even if you on horseback as well.

Kiyoko made good time leading the party towards the Gadshadow hills, where Sa'di's men were rumored to be wintering in a valley. Two uneventful nights were spent camping around a fire. On the third day, the party caught the unmistakable scent of a small army and their mounts as the winds shifted. If the breeze was to be believed, the camp could be due east at this point. And it couldn't be far off if they were regularly paroling this way. Kiyoko spied the tracks of three or four horses and their droppings heading south-east.

To the north (1 mile), the party could just discern the outline of a ruined stone tower over the treetops. Perhaps it was a relic of Taldor's golden age, but with the distance and the damage to the structure, it was impossible to tell.

It is currently 10 AM. It snowed a quarter inch last night and the temperature hovers around 20 degrees.

Road to Bellis

Moments after Hammerhead had despoiled the spriggans and remounted his pony, the fog rolled in. While Cassandra could see no immediate magical source of the sudden mist, she realized it was hardly the season or weather for such a thing. It was impossible to see beyond forty feet and had they not been so close to Bellis, they might have feared straying from the road.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead twirled his hammer with a hoot of joy. It was an odd thing, to be doing something as this after a fight, but it had been a very good one. He and Cassandra had been going up the road to Bellis, of course, minding their own business, until they had come to a large boulder in the path. Immediately, he'd suspected a trap, and told the druidess as much, and no sooner had she slapped some enchantments on herself and her wolf Connell then three oversized leafed-up gnomes had leapt out of the shadows, striking at the two - and missing horribly. Aside from a single scratch on Connell, they had escaped unscathed, and Hammerhead had caved in the chest of one of them with two quick strikes before completely pulverizing the head of a second as the remaining creatures - who had quickly realized they were outmatched - turned and fled.

His joy was shortlived, however, as the fog rolled in, and his danger senses tingled again.

"Blasted fog..." Hammerhead growled. He looked to Cassandra, concern on his face. "I confess I'm no expert on weather, but... does the timing seem off to you? We don't need this trouble, not so close to Bellis."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Not like anything I have seen before," the druidess replied. "While fog in winter is not unheard of, I find it extremely suspect that it rolls in mere moments after we are ambushed by spriggans." Cassandra peered into the fog for a moment before remounting. She dug her heels gently into Cyril's flank and moved up next to the dwarf. "The way I see it, we have several options," she said, and began counting them off upon her fingers. "One: Turn round, though I hesitate to do so this close to our destination. Two, press onward along the road. If something nefarious is behind the fog, we stand the higher likelihood of meeting it ahead, but it is also the most direct route to Bellis and, presumably, safety. Three, we press on, but off the road. We run a less likely chance of meeting an unknown assailant head on this way, but could lose our way. Four, we stay put until it dissipates or something confronts us. I suppose I could attempt to fly above the fog, but that would not help me see down into it. Whatever we choose, I recommend you keep your hammer ready, Master Dwarf. We are not out of the woods yet, proverbially or otherwise."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead furrowed his brow, thinking over the options Cassandra had set out. After a minute, he turned to her.

"It's not that I enjoy getting into unnecessary fights, but this close to town, I'd much rather just try to get there safely. We've taken down a dragon, and we're fresh off the fight with those... Spriggans, you said? With nary a scratch. Whatever comes our way, I'm positive we can face it together."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Very well then," Cassandra confirmed, "Let us press on."

"Conall," she called softly, "Stay alert, and use your nose." She tapped a finger to the side of her nose to impress upon the young wolf the importance of his natural ability to sniff out danger. "Quietly now, everyone, and stay on the road."

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

Leaning down from his horse to examine the tracks Kiyko had spotted, Elias frowned. He remained silent until he righted himself, looking back at his small party.

"It seems prudent to me that seek out this patrol. If they are indeed separated from their fellows, they could be a potent source of information and a way to shake the enemy's spirits."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

Kiyoko was surprised, really, how much not getting a knighthood in this swamp didn't bother her. Perhaps it had something to do with having once traded barbs with the ruler of Minkai, however out of her weight class he might have been. No, she'd obtained vast wealth, an actual friend or two, and the opportunity to throw an alchemist off a tower.

What surprised her almost as much was how she now regretted killing Valere. Not because of any newfound moral compunction, but because he'd turned out to be much more interesting than she'd given him credit for. It was like discarding a good puzzle she thought she'd solved only to learn that she'd missed the last half of it. This, however, was a question for another time.

In the meantime, there was rest, upgrades, and the blacksmith. It had taken Kiyoko a frankly embarrassing amount of time to even notice his advances, even as clumsy as they were. This wasn't entirely her fault - most men approached her with lines that were either patronizing concerning her heritage or, back in the Five Storms, about as subtle as a charging rhinoceros. She could do innuendo and sex jokes all day, but flirtation as a prelude to a real relationship was so far outside her experience as to sound absurd to her.

When she did finally realize what he was after, she went through a sequence of rarely-experienced reactions that she was sure Ellarie would tease her about until the end of time. Ultimately, though, she settled on a reply - she'd be fine with a roll in the hay, but she'd be leaving Belhaim before too long and, to be honest, the blacksmith could do better. Especially one sweet enough to make medals for people out of a sense of fairness. She wasn't sure she believed that last part, but she certainly sounded like she did.

Finally, though, it was time for bandit hunting. Sa'di Baba and the Forty Cliches were easy enough to locate, and Elias had a good point concerning the patrol. "Sounds like a plan."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Made cheerful again by the change in scenery, Ellarie could often be caught humming to herself as she worked out this song or that in her head. On a whim she had stopped on the road just outside of town and carved their initials into a roadside tree, laughing when she realized their initials spelled out PEEK. She had looked back at the little town then with no little mystification, bewildered at how the same town where she had come to realize the bulk of her abilities was also the scene of such a great personal setback. She had never had any illusions of how others saw her, but her image of herself had been so altered that she may never reconcile what she had perceived the pre-Belhaim Ellarie to be (Innocent Victim) with post-Belhaim Ellarie's reality (Opportunistic Dragon Slayer.). She shrugged, even these musings couldn't dampen her mood and she left the pall Belhaim had cast over her in Belhaim.

As they regarded the tracks of the bandit patrol, her eyes slid over to the tiefling and she cocked an eyebrow.

"Should I try and seduce these guys so you can tie them up and question them or...?" Unable to finish the sentence without laughing, she shook her head and peered to the south-east.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

The tiefling shook her head. "No. If we do that and slay them all, they'll wake up in two days and tell everyone about the massive forty-four person orgy we had."

[Nefarion Xid]

Bellis

Keeping to the road and going on foot, the pair made their way to the Sellen river and the ferry crossing. The Sellen was too wide and too deep this close to the coast for stone bridge to be constructed without exceptional cost, and there was so little trade this way that Andoran certainly couldn't bother. Unfortunately, the ferryman, nor his barge were present and a lone cottage set unoccupied on a little pier. No lights could be seen within.

A wolf's howl pierced the still, cold air. Seconds later there was an answer. And then another report and a confirmation. Cassandra knew right away this wasn't normal baying; they were plainly talking to one another, a leader nearby and two scouts north and south. These were either worgs or winter wolves, or something similar.

Before they could decide on what to do about the crossing, the adventurers were again interrupted by the rhythmic clanging of metal coming their way, like someone had shoed a horse with cast iron skillets.

[zabbarot]

Margot

As the clanging grew louder a massive cast iron cauldron came around the bend. Four stubby legs propelled it along, slamming into the road as it went. Atop sat a wooden platform with one wide seat, a low railing, and a bright blue cloth canopy. One rider sat, but the other, leaned far forward over the railing looking ahead.

"There it is! I told you we weren't lost. Stop up here, Crocker. We'll need to find the ferry... Or ford the river."

From her accent it was clear that she was from Galt.

"Allo! Have you seen the ferryman?"

The giant cauldron clambered to a stop not far from the travelers, and the woman waved down at them. Even with the advantage of her position it was clear she was quite petite, though most likely human. She was bundled up for the weather in a thick wool dress and wearing a dark brown riding cloak. A small boy, the second rider, peaked shyly at the travelers from behind her. He was similarly bundled up.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

As the cauldron came to a halt, Cassandra looked up with a mixture of surprise, suspicion, and curiousity. What in the world... After the contraption's occupant spoke, the druidess responded, "We have only just arrived at this spot ourselves, and I see no indication that he is here. I was about to suggest to my companion that we investigate the cottage yonder...and quickly. I know not whether you are friend or foe, but the sounds you here are most assuredly not friendly."

[zabbarot]

Margot

The small boy tugged at Margot's skirt for a moment and pointed towards the cottage.

"What is it, mon trésor?"

The boy couldn't be older than ten.

"Oh, the cottage! Alright. We'll go with you!"

She smiled broadly and urged the cauldron onwards towards the cottage.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead's jaw dropped as the cauldron-riding woman came into view, his eyes glazing over from sheer incredulity.

What in Trudd's ever-loving name...

Initially too taken aback to speak, he managed to find his words as she proposed heading toward the cottage, his dwarf accent making itself exceptionally thick as he spoke.

"Now wait just a cotton-picking minute! You - you come here, just riding on a ffff-" He managed to hold back a swear upon realizing there was a child present, "Riding on a cauldron, of all things, like it's nothing! People do not ride cauldrons! They cook things in them! Why are you riding a cauldron?! How are you riding a cauldron?! And, come to think of it... who are you, exactly?"

[zabbarot]

Margot

Margot looked taken aback for a moment before huffing and crossing her arms.

"I'm sure they would to ride cauldrons if they knew how. Cauldrons don't get tired or hungry or smelly like horses."

She reached down to pat the cauldron.

"There, there Crocker. I'm sure he didn't mean it. He's just a grouchy-pants."

She looked back at the dwarf and stuck out her tongue before turning away with her arms crossed once again. The boy just looked up at her silently for a moment before her face started to soften.

"No! He started it! ... I will not. ... Well... If he apologizes, I guess."

After a rather one sided sounding conversation she turned back to the dwarf.

"If you apologize I'm willing to forgive you. Then we can talk."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Priorities!" hissed the druidess. "My name, at least, is Cassandra. Well met and all that," she muttered quickly. She turned and headed toward the cottage, Conall following at her heels. "I am going to check out the cottage. If you two do not want to end up in a wolf's belly - or worse - I suggest you do likewise."

Stealth!
Cassandra: [roll0]
Conall: [roll1]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead looked to the cauldron-rider, then to the house, then to the cauldron-rider again.

Stealth? I can't do stealth, Cassandra. I can try, but...

"In the name of moving on and dealing with more pressing matters, I'll extend an apology. The name's Hammerhead, if you're curious - and if you're willing to help out, it looks like we have rather unfriendly company."

Hammerhead then followed after Cassandra. Seeing her trying to keep a low profile, he attempted to do the same, although there was not much he could do to disguise the loud, repetitive clanking (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0024.html) of his armor.

Stealth: [roll0]

[zabbarot]

Margot

Margot smiled and clapped. "Hooray! We can be friends then. You're forgiven." She curtsied briefly. "I'm Margot. This is my son Beignet, and you've met Crocker," she pointed to the cauldron. She urged the cauldron to follow after them, though she made no attempt at stealth.

"Sooo, what're we doing?"

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

"Pleasure to meet you, Margot, Beignet. And what we're doing right now? Attempting to get into Bellis. But, as you probably heard yourself, a bunch of rather suspicious howls just sounded half a minute ago, and if Cassandra's to be believed, this fog isn't natural - which means trouble, almost certainly in the form of an attack of some sort. So if you've got a means to defend yourself, I suggest you ready it. Maybe this cottage'll have some answers."

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

Realizing they were following the tracks of many patrols, rather than a singular one, Elias reined in his horse. Considering their situation, and the origin of their enemy, he began to understand the layers of the bandit lord's defense. Or at least, he thought he did.

"These tracks fit the pattern for a Qaditan cavalry deployment. Two squads of five patrolling a two mile radius, and another within a quarter mile."

He gestured to the hard-packed earth.

"See how the tracks have overlaid? It would not surprise me if this route had been traversed every day the bandits have been camped here. If we set our own camp, play the hapless band of travelers, we might be able to lure a patrol into a false sense of security."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Ellarie listened to Elias's counsel carefully and considered his plan.

"If we are so lucky as to take out fifteen of their men before we even reach the camp, that will improve our odds tremendously. Let's do it." She glanced around quickly for a likely place to make their camp, aware the first patrol might happen across them at any time.

[Nefarion Xid]

Bellis

A cursory investigation of the ferryman's cottage revealed nothing shocking, only a note saying he was attending a wedding in town and would return by sundown. As they were eager to be on their way instead of stick around and fight an assuredly level appropriate encounter with terrestrial enemies, the party cast their spells and made their way over the river, blissfully unaware that half-dragon winter wolves were a thing that exist.

Once they had assembled on the far side of the Sellen (merely 500 feet at this crossing), they found the small town eerily, but unsurprisingly, quiet. There was no sign or sound of jubilation; assuredly, the wedding party had been cut short by the mysterious fog. The fishery's windows were shuttered. Despite the twilight the fog created, no lights could be seen within the fishery or the nearby houses.

The silence was broken as a single honeybee buzzed through the party and continued north lazily.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Very curious," Cassandra declared. "We should probably search for a stable or tavern, though I cannot shake the feeling that we should follow that bee."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead turned and stared at Cassandra. "...it's a random bee. Unless you're suggesting that this bee, of all bees, has something to do with this?"

An Amazon's Attack, a deadly BEE weapon. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmxfZGkfByE)

Bees. My god. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1GadTfGFvU)
"Anyway, I favor looking for a tavern. If there's anywhere people've hold up, it'd probably be there."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Cassandra paused for a moment, listening for the telltale signs of civilized folk, but she was rewarded only with the sound of more bees flying past...and the sound of a dog. It barked twice, whined, and was silent. "Let's head that way," she suggested, indicating the direction of the sound.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

"I'll lead the way."

Hoisting his hammer, Hammerhead went in the direction Cassandra had indicated, toward the barking of the dog.

[zabbarot]

Margot

"Bees and dogs... no people noises?" Crocker noisily clanked down the street as Margot did her best to peer through windows. "I wonder if something ate them..."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead shuddered.

"Hopefully they're just hiding from whatever caused the fog. If something ate them I'd expect there to be a lot more destruction and blood everywhere. People don't just face something that's trying to eat them and not try to either put up a fight or flee, and something big enough to eat an entire town would have to leave SOME trace."

[zabbarot]

Margot

"Maybe it had really good table manners." Margot shrugged and continued her search, though she kept an eye open for traces of slobber or particularly large forks.

[Nefarion Xid]

Bellis

Up the road a way into town proper, the party located an inn. A kennel stood on the east side of the building, but there were no dogs present. The windows were shuttered and no light was on inside, just like every previous home or business they'd passed. No movement could be heard within. Nudging the front door open, Hammerhead found the large dining area empty, though plates with food and tankards full of drink were still on the tables.

From behind the counter, a half elven man shot up with his longbow ready, aiming an arrow at Hammerhead's throat. He was dressed in a fine green suit and pale gold cravat tied at his neck -- appropriate attire for a man's wedding day. His long blonde hair had been tightly braided down the side and a lily was pinned to his breast.

"Friend or foe?" he demanded. His arm slackened by an inch as he looked the party over, but his aim didn't stray from Hammerhead.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead set down Last Word on her head and raised his arms. "Easy, lad. We come in peace. Where is everyone? Has there been an attack?"

[Nefarion Xid]

Bellis

The man lowered (almost all the way) his bow and nodded. "Yes, half way through my reception when the fog came. First it was a swarm of enchanted bees. Telgara made short work of them with a little magic, but then the spriggans came. Three of them, one with a wounded leg. It's a good thing the lads thought I'd enjoy an archery competition on my wedding day. We put two of them down, but the third vanished back into the woods."

"Who are you?" he shot back, his suspicion flaring again. "Your timing is fortuitous."

[zabbarot]

Margot

"Who would be dumb enough to say 'foe' with an arrow aimed at their head?" Margot muttered under her breath. Beignet just blinked wordlessly. "It's a good thing we decided not to follow the bee then. What's a spriggan like up close? What'd they want anyway?"

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

"Spriggans, now? We got ambushed by three of them on the way into town - managed to kill two of them before the third fled. As for your question, my name's Yandeath Hammerhead - Hammerhead if you want to be brief." He paused to let his companions introduce themselves before continuing. "Cassandra and I are travelers from Belhaim; we're trying to get to Falcon's Hollow, and this is on the way."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

The druidess left unsaid her first thought: that the spriggan they had driven off was one of the three that attacked the town. "It is as my dwarven companion has said. Have you had other problems with spriggans lately?"

[Nefarion Xid]

Bellis

The well dressed man relaxed his bow and replaced the arrow in his quiver. "Spriggans only ever want one thing. They're just forlorn, misbegotten fey and wish everyone else were as miserable and scared as they are."

"I'm Elyin, by the way," he said, waving them inside. "We've never had much trouble with the fey, not with Devarre as an intermediary. I'd say the fey around here are even cordial. I haven't seen a spriggan in years. Though, some people were worried, what with the new order."

A pause and a blank look confirmed that not everyone was so up on Andoran politics as to immediately know what new order he meant. "We got word two days ago that the new Supreme Elect has rescinded the previous ban on darkwood logging in protected areas. Some were worried the fey might lash out once they heard. I don't know what all this is, but spriggans can't control the weather, and this is a powerful magic fog."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Cassandra's ears perked up at the mention of cordial fey, and she made a mental note to ask about that later. "My apologies, but I am from northern Taldor, and the politics of your realm are somewhat removed from the roads I travel, important as I am sure they are," she explained diplomatically before switching to the more pertinent subject of the fog. "The spriggans may have been acting opportunistically or they may be tied to the fog somehow, though not creating it themselves. Interesting and concerning." She glanced at Hammerhead and then back at Elyin. "Greetings, Elyin. As my companion said, I am the druidess Cassandra Vallas, and my family makes their home in the Fog Peaks, which is a somewhat remote area." She made a practiced curtsy and flashed the man a winsome smile. "You have my condolences for such a thing happening upon your wedding day. I do hope no one was seriously injured? I think we can spare some time to learn more about this, if my companion does not mind. I am not in any particular hurry to be about my business, and I should hate to trust my luck to roads in fog - magical or otherwise - even if I were not of a mind to help, which I am. If I am able."

Going to try Diplomacy to improve his attitude! [roll0]

[Nefarion Xid]

East of Belhaim

The lead rider of the five motioned for a halt some two-hundred feet out. "What's your business here? If you're hunting, you should move on; there's no good game in these hills," he called out in accented Taldane, jerking his head left and right to get a better look at the campsite through the trees. He wore a yellow open coat over his mail with red diamonds while the rest of his men had rough spun brown cloaks to keep warm. His right hand hovered at the quiver strapped to his thigh.

He's obviously lying. Besides, Kiyoko pointed out deer droppings not an hour ago.

Bellis

Elyin folded his arms. "It may not look that way, but we have things pretty well handled here. We've got people hiding in cellars for now while the militia sweeps the town. They should be back soon with my armor. If you want to help, you can find Devarre for us. He's an arch druid and, like I said, he gets on well with the fey. If anyone can tell us what's going on, it'll be him. Unfortunately he lives about thirty miles west of here on the Dragonfly River, a ways south of the falls. No one's exactly sure where, he keeps his home well warded and has a strange way of finding people before they find him."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Ellarie's heart began to race as the first of the patrols had stopped at their camp just as planned. She knew the fancy clad man was lying, but it mattered not. Unbeknownst to the ruby bejeweled man, they were indeed here to hunt, though he was their game.

"Oh hello! We aren't hunters, we were only traveling through when my husband's horse took a scare and it bucked him off. He's injured his leg and we're both freezing. Do you have a healer with you? Can you help us start this fire? My hands are shaking too badly. I'm so glad you happened by!" With her hands she motioned to come closer as she threaded her voice with urgency.

Bluff
[roll0]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead



Bellis

Elyin folded his arms. "It may not look that way, but we have things pretty well handled here. We've got people hiding in cellars for now while the militia sweeps the town. They should be back soon with my armor. If you want to help, you can find Devarre for us. He's an arch druid and, like I said, he gets on well with the fey. If anyone can tell us what's going on, it'll be him. Unfortunately he lives about thirty miles west of here on the Dragonfly River, a ways south of the falls. No one's exactly sure where, he keeps his home well warded and has a strange way of finding people before they find him."


Hammerhead looked to Cassandra. "You were looking for some other druids, weren't you? I say we help out, kill two birds with one stone." He then looked to Margot. "I don't suppose you'd be interested in tagging along, as well?"

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Ah, Devarre is a name I have heard," said Cassandra, recognizing one of the names Kel had provided. "Master Kel in Belhaim mentioned his name." Cassandra nodded to Hammerhead. "Yes, I am looking for other druids. This seems a propitious task to start my search with."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

Standing behind a tree felt a little silly, what with being invisible and all, but Kiyoko figured the extra precaution couldn't hurt. Gripping her sword tightly, she waited for a signal, picking out her target among the patrol. Start with the mounted ones. Mustn't let them get back to warn the others.

[Nefarion Xid]

East of Belhaim

The lead Qadiran rider consulted with his men for a moment before nudging his horse forward to approach. "Bad time of year to travel. Where are you headed? I can tell you, there are easier ways to get there than through the Gadshadow."

It's hard to tell from this tone of voice if he believes you or not. The lead rider is now 150 feet away.

Bellis

Elyin managed a bit of a smile. "If you would, we'd all be grateful. The lads can defend the town from a few spriggans, but I don't think any of them will be brave enough to go dead into the woods with this fog and mischief."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead struck his fist against his chest.

"Consider it done, Elyin. You said 30 miles west on the Dragonfly River, south of the falls, correct?"

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Very well then. If Devarre lives as far off as you say, I think we should start first thing in the morning, rather than now. That way we can push on a good way from Bellis during the day, and perhaps past whatever is magically besieging the town." Turning to her companions, she put the question to them. "What do you two think? Assuming you are coming along, Margot."

[zabbarot]

Margot

Margot turned to Beignet, who nodded his agreement. "I suppose we don't have anything better to do, and it'd be nice to sleep in a real bed for a night."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Keeping up her worried guise, she ran her hands through her hair distractedly.

"We are headed to Belhaim. My husband's family owns a farm and we're supposed to help with the spring plowing and planting. We ahdn't been trhough the Gadshadow before, we weren't prepared for these conditions I'm afraid. If you could help us, we would be more than happy to be on our way."

Bluff
[roll0]

[Nefarion Xid]

East of Belhaim

The lead rider turned his head to say something inaudible to his men. The one at the rear of the formation turned and began riding east at a trot.

"Hamad is returning to out camp to fetch our striker and some tinder, also some furs and a potion for your husband. It is lucky we found you before the wolves or less virtuous men." The four remaining riders began walking their horses forward slowly.

He's lying.

Bellis

Fifteen minutes of waiting at the inn confirmed Elyin's opinion that the militia was entirely competent. They returned with his armor and a report that the town was clear of any monsters. After people began filing up from the cellar, families were advised to pair off and stay with each other during the night. Meanwhile the innkeeper, hopeful at the party's insistence on helping the town, offered them them free rooms for the night and dinner.

By early morning, the fog remained, thick as ever, though it somehow felt less malevolent. Perhaps this was simply due to a night of normalcy. At least, people went about their lives. At breakfast, Elyin met with the party to confirm that the town was secure and to answer any further questions before they departed.

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

As the fifth rider turned away, no doubt to relay a message to their camp, Elias sense the moment was right to strike. Taking hold of the silver baton at his belt, he muttered a few words of power as bat guano flecked in his fingers, before a searing ball of green flame shot outwards to engulf the bandit patrol.

Elias casts Fireball with his Maximize rod.

36 Fire Damage, Reflex DC 20 for half.

[Nefarion Xid]

East of Belhaim

It's super effective. A snap fireball reduced the entire scouting party to charred blackened corpses with the exception of the lead rider and his horse. After tumbling from the saddle he managed to crawl a half step before collapsing face-first into the snow.

The lead rider is unconscious at 0 HP. His horse is at -3, but stable. Two other riders have stabilized. Four horses are completely dead. A search of their gear yields 4 chain shirts, 1 chain mail set, 5 scimitars, 5 short bows and a gold ring worth 100 gp.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Sleep had, breakfast eaten, and spells prepared, Cassandra found herself in the company of Hammerhead, Margot, and Elyin. "Besides unnatural fog and intemperate spriggans, what kind of dangers can we expect in the forest?"

[Nefarion Xid]

West of Bellis

The party had pressed on from morning to noon, making good time through a quiet, mist filled forest. As they were only able to see a scant forty feet ahead at the best of times, they passed precisely nothing of interest, though they never deviated from their west-ward path thanks to Cassandra's keen senses.

Ahead, they heard the rasping and moaning of something female coming toward them in a panic. As the partied readied themselves for whatever brought the sound, they saw a lithe creature limp into view. She was nude except for the tangle of birch branches woven into her silver hair, a fantastically delicate thing with wide blue eyes that couldn't focus on anything.

"Please," she sobbed, only just apprising the party to be harmless, "They're burning our grove. My sisters are dying!"

You know the creature to be a dryad.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

After halting suddenly when the dryad made her appearance, Cassandra listened to the creature's plea with a pained expression. "Who is doing this thing, my lady - and where?" she asked urgently. "There may yet be time!"

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

One of the fey? Whoever she is, she's not lying - that's way too desperate of a look on her face.

Gripping his hammer, Hammerhead pressed for details.

"What's going on? Who's burning your grove?"

[Nefarion Xid]

The dryad rushed to embrace Cassandra and continued to wept. "Not far, just south of here in a paueliel grove! Spriggans and worgs: they're torturing us. I've only just managed to get away. They're carving my sisters' likeness onto their trees as some horrible offering to whatever thing they serve. Please, you must do something!" With that she collapsed, too grief stricken to move. Two wounds could be seen on her back, obvious slashes from weapons as she'd made her escape.

Paueliel trees are enormously tall and absurdly slender trees like birches rumored to have a connection to the First World. Lumberjacks almost always leave them alone as they believe them to invite misfortune.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead whirled to Cassandra, slamming his hammer into the ground dramatically.

"Well, Cassandra, what say we go give those Spriggans the Last Word on respecting other people's groves?"

He then quickly rushed in the direction the dryad had indicated.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Yes, let us go and see what we may do," the druidess agreed quickly. "It is apparent that something wrong is afoot in the forest. First we are waylayed by spriggans, then Bellis is beset by them, and now this. We must find out what it is."

[Nefarion Xid]

West of Bellis

"Thank you! There may still be time to save my sisters!" the dryad composed herself quickly and began running ahead of Hammerhead. "I don't know who you are, but I'm so lucky to have found ... "

The fey creature managed one last pained sob and clutched at her chest before she tumbled into the undergrowth. Her eyes had gone glassy black and what color there was in her pale skin faded into a cold, ashy alabaster. Within seconds she had petrified, forever frozen in a fetal position with a look of despair on her face.

The dryad's tree has been destroyed.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Gasping in horror at the sudden death of the dryad, Cassandra threw an anguished look at her companions. "Come, we cannot help her now, but perhaps hope remains for her sisters." Sprinting forward, the druidess continued on in the direction the dryad had been leading them, Conall at her side.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead gaped as the dryad fell, then, a quiet fury in his eyes, grasped the haft of Last Word with renewed vigor.

"I hope you don't mind mopping up my afters, Cassandra, because I've got words for whoever's doing this whenever we catch up to them."

[Nefarion Xid]

West of Bellis

Dashing in the direction the dryad had indicated, the party soon saw the warm glow of a several bonfires. In a grove of five enormous, silver paueliel, deadwood had been piled high around each tree and four were already burning brightly. The trees had each been marred with axes and the flames licked into the heartwood. Thrown in with the firewood were the corpses of three dryads.

Around the fifth tree, the fires had not yet been lit. Nearby, a bleeding dryad lay unconscious (hopefully) next to the body of a white unicorn. Around the grove, briar covered spriggans cackled, staring into the flames and raising their axes in triumph. While they seemed to not hear the party's approach, the two obedient worgs did, instantly snapping to attention and sounding a warning howl.

Cassandra and Margot have won initiative. Then the Spriggans and Worgs. Yandeath is at the bottom of the round. Place yourself in the light green box and take your turn. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18kA7L1GRXXjMTKLilDycyv5xD2zj1WnqUO535QAuIHY/edit#gid=1752670185 bottom right map!

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Drawing one of the scrolls Cassandra had carried from Belhaim, Cassandra unrolled it and began chanting the words as she held up her focus, calling down a vertical column of divine fire upon the enemies in the center of the grove. "Quickly, defend the dryads!" she called out to her companions. As soon as the scroll was activated, Conall bounded forward, snapping his teeth at the closest enemy.



CL Check for scroll (DC 8): [roll0]
Mishap in case of nat 1 (DC 5 Wis check): [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] (Half Divine, Half Fire)

Conall Power Attack: [roll3]
Damage: [roll4]

[zabbarot]

Margot

Margot spurred Crocker forward into battle before locking her evil eye on the first spriggan.

-2 to the spriggans saves, DC 19 will save to reduce it to 1 round

[Nefarion Xid]

West of Bellis

With the majority of their forces reduced to ash with a single spell, the remaining two Spriggans gave an appalled screech before retreating to the safety of the local briar patches where they were magically whisked elsewhere.

The grove was quiet again except for the pained gasps coming from the dying dryad and the occasional breathy sigh from the unicorn. The elder trees continued to burn fiercely; while it would take hours for the trees to be completely consumed, the fire could spread to the surrounding forest if something wasn't done.

As before, the 2 spriggans carry cold iron battleaxes (small) and chain shirts. You find empty vials of greenblood oil.

In the center of the grove you find a plain wooden box, likely despoiled from the dryads. It contains 66 platinum, 279 gp, 402 sp; two diamonds worth 500 gp each, a sapphire and silver ring worth 500 gp, a pair of ruby and gold earrings worth 250 gp, a carved ivory figurine of a rampant stag worth 250 gp, three pouches containing a single use of Dust of Appearance and one pouch with Dust of Dryness.

Update: After stabilizing the wounded, the party worked for half an hour to put out the fires. Once the immediate danger was passed, healing spells were doled out and the forest denizens were roused. Seeing the state of the grove and hearing the fate of her sister who'd managed to escape, the dryad wept uncontrollably for several minutes and clung to the neck of her unicorn friend. She never did give her thanks, but eventually crawled off to the nest-like shelter of her tree's roots and lay there practically comatose. Finally the unicorn rose to approach the party.

"I owe you my life. Fira too, though I fear she thinks she deserves hers not now. My name is Palomir and I am at your service."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"I am sorry we did not arrive sooner, Palomir," replied Cassandra, her expression sorrowful. "We met another dryad some distance to the north. She begged us to save her sisters, and we came as swiftly as we could." She glanced toward Margot and Hammerhead as she spoke, introducing herself and her companions, and hoping to allay any fears the unicorn may have. "I am Lady Cassandra Vallas, druidess and knight by the grace of Belhaim's baroness. These are my companions, Yandeath Hammerhead (also knighted by the same Lady) and my trusty Conall. I do not know much about the other woman with us, save that her name is Margot. My companions and I met her near Bellis, where a strange fog lay upon the land. We were assailed by spriggans on our road, as was the town shortly before we arrived, and we have taken it upon ourselves to seek out the druid Devarre and ask his counsel per a man named Elyin Ursage in Bellis, a councilor and leader of the militia. We...have not had much time for proper introductions as we left in rather much of a hurry, and have been journeying since the morning." Suspicion of her new associate was slowly settling itself in the bottom of Cassandra's stomach as she spoke, and she silently upbraided herself for being too trusting of strangers, crisis notwithstanding. "There have now been three separate incidents involving spriggans in this area of the forest that I am aware of. I seek no service of you, noble unicorn, but perhaps you can tell me more of what has happened here?"

[Nefarion Xid]

West of Bellis

Palomir glanced to the dryad behind him. "We are far from the oldest creatures in this forest. What is happening is beyond us."

"On the night of the last full moon, we attended the court of Lady Aripha. Suddenly, we were covered with a mist like this one and we heard a voice, a dark loveless thing like the last whisper of a betrayer, beautiful and heartbreaking. She said she was called Rhoswen, the Fellnight Queen. She demanded our fealty, or our blood. She promised to purge the realm of men if we followed her. Aripha only laughed. She thought it was a jest in poor taste."

"When asked about this Fellnight Queen, Aripha said she was only a dreadful shadow of the past, a daughter of Nyrissa and a student of Count Ranalc. When her mother and the count were banished, so was her protection. Queen Syntira seized the opportunity and marched here, battling Rhoswen back to her own realm where she was locked away."

The history lesson and many names were almost entirely lost on the party, spare for Cassandra who happened to know precisely who Syntira and Count Ranalc were. The unicorn did not seem concerned that he was not well understood.

"But this was more than eight thousand years ago. None of us even knew the story except for Aripha. Rhoswen was not one of the Eternal Queens, so she could not still be alive. We were told to ignore the matter and we did. Then last night the spriggans and worgs attacked in force. I do not know how the others have fared. We retreated back to the grove where the dryads are strongest. But, you can see how our last battle ended." He added with a sad sigh, looking between the charred trees.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Nodding along with what the unicorn revealed, Cassandra pondered the facts aloud, "If this Rhoswen is long dead, as you say, there may be another claiming her name and legacy to put on a show of power." The druidess briefly explained the events of Belhaim to the unicorn, noting that the dragon had claimed to be the long-dead, and far more powerful Aeteperax to scare the townsfolk, while he was in-fact only a pretender. "I wonder if it is a similar situation, or if this is a more dire portent. Either way, we should not remain idle. Until recently, I was reticent to become involved in such events, but I could not sit by in Belhaim when I might lend aid. I find myself in a similar situation here. I cannot speak for my companions, of course, but I should like to aid you. Especially if this 'Rhoswen' wishes to purge the realm of men. I rather like men - well, some of them at any rate - and I happen to be of the same species."

She chewed her lip as she studied the unicorn for a long moment, "It is more imperative than ever that we find Devarre, I think, but what of you and Fira?" She gestured in the direction of the remaining dryad. "We did not kill all of the spriggans, and they may return in force. Word should be brought to your Aripha, but I would not counsel you to leave your remaining friend her alone."

[Nefarion Xid]

West of Bellis

"No, we will remain here together. Fira cannot stray far from her tree. And I suspect the worst of the attack may be over. If they return ... there are worse fates than to die alongside your friend, facing evil. You should go and see Devarre, as you said. A mortal man, yes, but wise and trustworthy," Palomir said without a hint of humor in his clarion voice.

"Aripha already knows, surely, but she has no way to send word to Syntira. That is what we need most. Devarre will have the means."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"It must be nice to have a friend like that," murmured Cassandra. "Very well. We shall continue on to Devarre and seek his guidance." Bowing her head in token of parting, Cassandra prepared herself to leave the battle-site. "If ever we meet again, Palomir, I hope it is under better circumstances. Farewell."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

As Cassandra made to leave, Hammerhead also inclined his head toward the unicorn.

"The best of luck to you, Palomir. I only apologize that we could not arrive sooner."

Grasping Last Word, Hammerhead then made his way ahead of Cassandra, taking point.

[zabbarot]

Margot

With more than bit of effort Margot barely contained a laugh as the spriggans fled. She had expected a bit more fight out of them. She dismounted just outside the glade and did her best to help put out the fire, though the druid clearly had it under control. She provided small treats for both the dryad and the unicorn, though she really wasn't sure what a dryad might eat. For the unicorn she made a carrot biscuit similar to what she expected a horse might like. She listened intently as Cassandra carried on with the unicorn.

"Are you sure 'men' in this case doesn't mean humans? Or you could be making a joke I guess."

She waved goodbye and climbed back atop Crocker, ready to move on.

"So... Count Ranalc is... ah... unexpected. Hopefully she's not a particularly great student of his?"

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"A small jest," Cassandra explained, once out of earshot. She was heading off once more toward the general area Devarre was supposed to be, hoping the Unicorn and remaining dryad fared well, and wondering what she'd got herself into. "Perhaps in poor taste, now that I think about it."

[Nefarion Xid]

Leaving Palomir and Fira to their own devices, the party pressed on west in search of Devarre. An hour's progress was made in eerie silence; even the calls and reports from the worgs had stopped. Even the rustling of branches in the breeze was somewhat muted by the dense fog.

The quiet was broken abruptly by a rhythmic stomping, a high pitched scream, and then crunch of Spriggan landing face-first against an oak's trunk, violently propelled by some unseen force. The creature's head was essentially obliterated on impact and the corpse hit the ground with a much softer thud.

"More of you beasties!? Ahh! Stand and fight, you cowards! I'll drive you into the earth like stakes! I'll beat your to death with your own friends! Go and fetch your armies, I'll fight you all at once! Show me this queen of yours and ..." The slurred boasts came from something enormous with a voice like the creaking timbers of a ship. At the edge of vision, the party saw an elm treant thunder forward. Overhead, he held a three-foot boulder effortlessly. In the other hand he wielded a dead worg by the legs.

His charge slowed when he saw the party, a flicker of understanding in his gnarled, mossy face. "Hrooom! Who do you serve?" he demanded, drawing back his boulder for a pitch.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"A complicated question, good treant. At the moment, I serve the interests of Bellis and (so I hope) Aripha." Bowing respectfully, Cassandra spoke loudly and took pains to enunciate so the enebriated creature could clearly understand her. She also made no motion that she felt could be perceived as hostile. "I see you have had an encounter with some of our enemies," she explained, gesturing toward the remains of the spriggan. "We have killed several ourselves first in our journey to Bellis, and then from Bellis to here. Earlier today, we spoke to the unicorn Palomir, who along with several of his dryad friends, had been assailed by spriggans and worgs. We killed several and the rest fled, but alas, much hurt and death had already been dealt. We now seek the Arch Druid Devarre, in hopes that he can shed light upon the forest's plight and send word to Syntira that evil stirs and marches under the name of Rhoswen."

[roll0]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Deciding that there was nothing he could say that would improve the situation, and that such things would be best left to those who knew how to use words, Hammerhead gripped Last Word and waited to see if Cassandra could calm down the treant.

[Nefarion Xid]

The elder treant regarded Cassandra quietly and silly while she spoke and for several moments after. With a careless flick of the wrist, he launched the dead worg backwards, over the treetops. The crack-splat sounded an awkward few seconds later. A grim smile spread across the treant's face. "You speak the truth. Well! We're on the same side then. Don't let me delay you, little ones! I'll go to the grove and keep Palomir company. Hrooom. Time was when this forest stretched all the way to the Vale. It was all one. Unicorns could step from one side to another in a flash. Oh, but I was a sapling then. Hrmmm. They call me Vinroot by the way. Not my real name, but it's easy for the small folk to pronounce."

While the treant rambled, he took a large clay jug from what was essentially a fanny-pack of living vines and took a long draught.

"Oh! Shouldn't be rude. Would you like some?" He waggled the jug at the party. "Rather takes the edge off. Things being as they are."

Hazarding an educated guess, the treant is likely drinking Nodrim, a terribly bitter wine made form crabapples, or whatever really. It's aged in the hollows of living darkwood trees. When consumed by humanoids, it grants the effect of Barkskin for an hour. As a side effect, it also makes the drinker taller by as much as two inches. It will also get you lit AF.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Well, it would be rude to refuse, Cassandra mused. "Perhaps just a small sip," she said. "Time is rather pressing."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Smelling the delicious smell of booze, Hammerhead sniffed the air eagerly.

"I'll have some too, if you're offering, my good treant. Er, please."

After waiting for the treant to refuse or accept, he continued.

"Also, you wouldn't happen to know where we could go to find the Archdruid, would you?"

[Nefarion Xid]

While the clay jug looked tiny in Vinroot's hands, when passed off to Cassandra, she realized it was easily over 50 pounds and there was no possible way she could bring it up to her lips without aid. The treant chuckled at this (likely not the first time he'd played this trick) and produced from his pouch three cups into which he delicately poured droughts of nodrim.

"Devarre makes his home inside Fey Circle near the ... oh, you folks call it the Dragonfly River, don't you? You won't be able to see the standing stones from without. You have to know what you're looking for and be sure you'll find it." He turned and stretched out a branch, correcting their westward course slightly north. "If the way is easy, you're missing it! Hrrrmm. Oh! I don't even know your names. I like to know the names of folks willing to protect the forest."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Taking a long drink of the nodrim - which ended up tasting like supremely sour apple cider, with a woody finish - Hammerhead smacked his lips contentedly as the alcohol hit him, a feeling of supreme relaxation entering his limbs even as his skin turned to bark.

"The name's Yandeath Hammerhead, if you're asking for a name - dragonslayer, lover of comely female dwarves, and smacker of things with a really big hammer. And, at the moment, someone willing and ready to help drive off the knobs who're doing this to your forest and your kin."

Taking his fist, Hammerhead pounded it into his chest as a show of solidarity.

"My supreme thanks for that marvelous drink and the directions... Vinroot, you said? Hopefully we'll be back with reinforcement sooner rather later."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Cassandra Vallas," the druidess replied, practicing a polished curtsy to the forest denizen. "Druidess out of Taldor, and at your service, Vinroot. It has been a pleasure, and I thank you for the information. Please give my regards to Palomir."

[zabbarot]

Margot

Margot's eyes widened as her companions changed from the drink. She, however, politely declined. "It seems a bit strong for my tastes. You can call me Margot. It's very nice to meet you." This was the first time she had ever seen a treant. They were very tall. Much too tall.

[Nefarion Xid]

Vinroot extended a spindly finger branch to each of the party to shake their hands after a fashion. Taking note mostly of Hammerhead's body language, he quickly excuses himself, "Yes, Yandeath is right. You should be off quickly. Find Devarre and send help. I will seek Palomir and I will do what I do best." If there were some misunderstanding of what he did best, he flexed his fists and made a cracking sound like splintering timber. "I wish you luck and speed, little ones!"

Pressing on towards the river as directed by Vinroot, the trio rode until nearly sunset. While the rush of the Dragonfly could be heard in the distance, it was impossible to see the river due to the tangle of rocky hills in this part of the woods. Even if Devarre's retreat wasn't magically veiled, finding a loan cottage in this terrain would be an impressive feat. Armed with the knowledge that they sought something illusory, Cassandra paid careful attention to anything out of place and the breeze coming through the stark hill she was riding past. Further investigation and some urging for the horses revealed the figment. Instead of a proper hill, there was only a gentle rise here. Placed every hundred feet or so in a great circle, there were enormous fang-like stones driven into the ground. Each bore whispers of the Sylvan language and flickered from within with an emerald light when the illusion was disturbed. Half concealed behind a copse of oaks, the party could see a garden and a spacious wooden lodge.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

As the troupe approached the now-visible lodge, Cassandra cleared her throat to draw the others' attention. "I do not think it would do to simply barge in on a man who goes to these lengths to keep away from people. I shall call out and await an answer." The druidess took a few more tentative steps forward, and then in a loud, clear voice, called out, "We seek the Arch Druid Devarre. We have been sent by Elyin Ursage of Bellis, and more recently the unicorn Palomir and Treant Vinroot. We beg your aid and counsel!"

[Othniel]

Devarre's House

With no response immediately forthcoming, Cassandra walked up to the lodge and started searching for windows. Through one to the left, she could spot a bed-ridden lump with stringy green hair. Tapping on the glass and calling out once more roused the sleeping druid. The green-skinned (!) man threw off his furs and yelled at the glass, "Counsel!? You ... oh you startled me. I'm pretty hard of hearing these days!" he yelled back at Cassandra, as if the window was preventing him from being heard properly.

He took a moment to compose himself before limping towards the door. He opened it a crack and scrutinized Cassandra. "How ... how did you find me?" he asked more quietly.

"Where a way is needed, a path oft opens," Cassandra replied cryptically, and then went on to explain. "Vinroot gave us vague directions, and mentioned your home was within a Fey Circle. He also mentioned what I assume is an illusion, though not in so many words."

"Vinroot? Ah. Yeah. Vinroot will do that ... that. Yes! So. So. What can the wise and powerful Devarre do for you?"

"Ah, well..." Cassandra stammered. Something about the man was...off, she figured. Touched in the head, or heavily under the influence of something, most likely. She glanced over at Margot, and wondered if the other woman had some way of treating a drug-induced hangover. "Margot, perhaps...do you have something for out host to, ah, clear his mind? There is much to go over."

[zabbarot]

Margot

"Hmm... I'm sure I can whip something up." Margot looked the druid up and down. "What's your favorite flavor? Is it cinnamon? 'Cause you're getting cinnamon." As she spoke a stream of flour and sugar danced out of Crocker and formed into a dough ball in her hands. "Hangover cures never taste particularly great. I mean, unless you like cinnamon and licorice together," she mumbled under her breath. As she spoke she scratched a rough likeness of the green man onto the dough and it cooked in mid air into something roughly like a gingerbread man.

"Here, have him eat this, and uh... back up. He might get sick. He'll feel better after."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead watched with interest as the makings of cookies floated out of the walking cauldron and int Margot's hands, where they took the form of a (presumably) magic cookie, and he licked his lips.

"Well, you must be right fun at parties. I don't suppose you can do snickerdoodles?"

[zabbarot]

Margot

"Oh! Of course! Snickerdoodles are much better than hangover cookies anyways." She turned and walked back to Crocker, then gave it a single swift kick that reverberated throughout. "Miette! Get out here, you lazy cabbage. Do we have any more snickerdoodles?" After a bit of rustling a racoon climbed up out of the cauldron covered in crumbs and doing it's best to look innocent. "..." Margot glared at it for a moment before it went to hide behind Beignet. "I don't understand why he eats so much. He isn't even alive," she said turning back to Yandeath. "He's made of cake. The idiot would eat himself if I let him."

[Nefarion Xid]

The druid stared blankly at the exchange between the witch and her cadre of sidekicks. "I don't ... I really don't know what to do with this information."

Snapping back to a more lively state, he rubbed his ears and slapped some color into his cheeks (well, a slightly darker shade of green since the man's entire body was the same color as a sappling's core). "I'm old! Not drunk! There is a difference!"

"What. Do. You. Want?" he repeatedly slowly, fixing Cassandra with his glassy eyes.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Elyin Ursa sent us to find you and ask for your help. There is some sort of evil fey uprising starting, led by someone claiming to be Rhoswen. Spriggans attacked my companion and myself end while as we neared Bellis, and apparently attacked the town itself. On our way here, we encountered more spriggans and worgs attacking dryads and the unicorn, Palomir. After we fought them off, Palomir suggested you could send word to Syntira." Cassandra inclined her head respectfully. "Will you help us?"

Diplomacy: [roll]1d20+21

[Nefarion Xid]

Devarre's brow knitted and he began to nod. "Evil fey? Yes. Yes. The Briar Queen herself? Maybe."

He muttered to himself and gestured the party inside the house after him. "Yes, I'll seek Queen Syntira straight away as soon as I'm able. I haven't prepared the right spells. I'll do so straight away. At dawn. I'll Treestride. The Darkmoon Queen is powerful. Very powerful. Once she arrives. Blam. All over for Rhoswen."

Spinning around to face the party, he stuck out a spindly finger squarely at Cassandra. "If it's Rhoswen. She was sealed away in the Fellnight long ago. Long ago. The entrance to her realm is not far from here, atop the falls to the north, protected by a ring of wardstones. As long as the stones remain aligned, nothing can pass between the realms. Couldn't have been the fey that released her. If it's her. The stones would burn like Hell. Powerful retributive magics. Cold iron ore. Go there and examine the circle! Report back. I will remain here and rest my mind; prepare for the morning."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Go north to the top of the falls," Cassandra repeated back. "Very well, Master Devarre. I hope to find the wardstones well in order." She turned to go and beckoned to Hammerhead and Margot. "Shall we?"

[Nefarion Xid]

A wry smile crept on to Devarre's face. "She built her demiplane with one foot in the Prime Material, The Shadow Plane and the First World. The Eldest completely broke her plane away from the First World, but the connection here is strong. If the wardstones have been removed, then the passage between this world and the Fellnight is wide open. You'll be able to step inside just by walking beyond the circle. And if this is Rhoswen, I would suspect she bides her time there. If you think you're able, you could seek her out there and end this swiftly."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead


Cassandra

"Go north to the top of the falls," Cassandra repeated back. "Very well, Master Devarre. I hope to find the wardstones well in order." She turned to go and beckoned to Hammerhead and Margot. "Shall we?"
"I believe we shall."

Hammerhead then turned north as indicated, heading toward the falls.

[Nefarion Xid]

Following the Dragonfly River north took the remainder of the evening. It was two hours past sunset by the time the party and their weary horses reached the falls colloquially known as Dead Man's Drop. Most people in Andoran knew the story about how Captain Drake meant to retire with the spoils of his career in piracy, but was pursued by the Eagle Knights. Rather than give himself up, or his gold, he leapt from the top of the falls with a chest in hand. Supposedly, there was a small fortune of scattered among the foam and rocks. Of course, people had been telling the same story for half a century and a minority of people knew the infamous pirate captain as Blake, rather than Drake.

On the left, there was the river and the first tier of the falls some fifty feet up. The water emptied into a narrow, triangular pool filled with long tooth rocks. The mist was thickest here, worse than elsewhere in the forest. One could scarcely tell the falls were there at all in the haze, except for the roaring sound and the gap in the treeline. By appearances, the mist was pouring out of the base of the falls itself.

To the right, there was a precarious trail leading up the hill. Glints of fire could be seen through the fog on the pines -- evidently a large campsite.

[TheDarkDM]

Elias, Ellarie, and Kiyoko
East of Belhaim

As the light and smoke of Elias' fireball faded away, the effect on the bandit patrol became clear. The lead rider managed a staggered step away from them, but before he could move further he was cut down by the red darts that burst from Kiyoko's fingers on command. The bandit patrol was slain to the last, and only one horse survived. Elias felt a pang of regret, for the innocent horses if nothing else, before he knelt down and pressed a wand against the surviving mount, causing its wounds to slowly heal.

"It's too bad we didn't take any alive. They might have provided useful answers."

Ellarie gave a slight cough.

"Actually, I might be able to help with that."

Kneeling down alongside the dead patrol leader, Ellarie cupped his head in her hand and began intoning a slow, funerary chant. As the rest of the group watched, a strange mist began to rise from where her fingers met dead flesh, and with a gasp of remembered breath the corpse's eyes fluttered open. Meeting the unearthly gaze, Ellarie began to ask questions.

Will the other outer patrol approach from the same direction as your patrol?

The voice that responded was faint, but unmistakably human.

"Yes."

"How many hours from now will the main camp expect to hear from your patrol?"

"Two."

"Is your leader a magic-user?"

"No."

As the echo of the last answer rumbled in the corpse's chest, the mist from Ellarie's fingertips faded and the light of false life faded from its eyes. Releasing the dead man, Ellarie stood.

"That's all the answers we'll be getting today, I'm afraid."

"That was more than enough. Come, if they're keeping to Qadiran light cavalry doctrine the next patrol will be here in a little less than an hour. We can set an ambush further up the trail."

"You have another fireball in you, Elias?"

"Unfortunately, no. But I have some other tricks."

Moving far enough down the path to escape the smell of cooked horse flesh, the group prepared their ambush. Sure enough, the second patrol appeared as expected, failing to notice the crouched adventurers until they were within striking distance. A burst of gold and green stars from Elias' hand blinded not only every rider but every horse, allowing Kiyoko to wreak unchallenged havoc among their ranks. Within moments, the second patrol was dispatched. Smiling at the ease with which they had removed ten bandits from the board, Elias looked back at his cousin.

"You see, Philip, the advantage of surprise in engagements like these!"

Wide eyed, the newly minted apprentice and squire surveyed the devastation.

"Is it always this easy, cousin?"

"Alas, no."

Catching the conversation as she returned from her slaughter, Kiyoko interjected.

"I mean, sort of? Other than dragons and that Goladryth thing..."

"And that thing with the tentacles"

"And the wraith."

"How did I forget the wraith!? That guy was a ****."

"Oh yeah that was nasty."

"My take-away from this is that wizards with forethought trump everything else in the field."

"Just about!"

Elias gave Philip a playful punch on the arm.

"Now, lets get these horses and bodies sorted before we move on the inner patrol."

In short order, the adventurers had picketed their horses and began moving deeper into the woods, seeking out the bandits' inner patrol. It did not take them long, but unfortunately just as they caught sight of the five riders the riders noticed them. What followed was a sprinting battle, as Elias filled the warrior women with supernal speed in the hope they would outrun any rider that sought to alert the bandit camp. Aided by a quartet of summoned lightning elementals, Ellarie and Kiyoko cut through the bandits like a hot knife through butter, and the one scout that rode desperately for Sa'di's camp was himself ridden down.

Collecting the horses again and securing the bodies, Ellarie imbued herself with flight and invisibility and moved unseen towards the camp. Flying overhead, she saw a few bandits huddled over a cookfire and a pair of hapless sentries. She returned to the group unnoticed, and as she relayed her reconnoiter Elias pulled a scroll from his bag. Unrolling the parchment, he intoned words of magic his mind was as yet incapable of truly grasping, and before them appeared a swirling vortex of holy energy. Pointing towards the camp, he spoke to the Azata in the language of celestials.

"There is a group of bandits in the camp ahead. Break them."

The howling of wind was the only response, and in moments the Bralani was among the bandits, sending gusts of pummeling wind into their lines. Cries of alarm and Qadiran cursing rose from the camp, only to intensify as Kiyoko and Ellarie charged in as well. The bandits in the open proved little different from those they had encountered on patrol, and fell to the furious onslaught with little effort. Indeed, they proved wholly incapable of landing a blow on Kiyoko or doing appreciable damage to the summoned celestial, and while Ellarie suffered some telling blows it did not slow her onslaught. It seemed their conquest of the bandits would be quickly resolved, before Sa'di emerged on the heels of his red-sashed elites. Taking one look at the blood-stained battlefield scarred by cutting winds and bolts of lightning, the mustachioed bandit could barely contain his fury.

"Who. The ****. ARE YOU!?"

The response from the adventurers was perhaps not what he expected, as Elias loosed his last Glitterdust to hobble the advancing elites. Ellarie proceeded to carve through their number, and while the Bralani engaged the last of the rank and file in its elven form Sa'di charged at Kiyoko. The tiefling warrior had proved near-invincible thus far, but she met her match in Sa'di, whose expert swordplay finally managed to locate the gaps in her defenses.

"Stop killing my men! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA HOW EXPENSIVE THEY ARE!?"

Suddenly reminded of her grandfather, Kiyko moved to disarm the bandit lord, only for her terrifying no-dachi to be parried away. Another lightning bolt ripped through the remaining bandits, and it became clear that Sa'di was the sole threat remaining.

"Fall back! I will deal with them!"

The Qadiran glowered down at Kiyoko.

"You know, we should call it a draw and get married."

"Heard it before...that too, actually. What dowry are you offering?"

"Your life?"

Dancing to one side, his blade bit into Kiyoko's side.

"That's not worth much. You'll need to do better."

He grunted as Kiyoko managed to block his subsequent slashes.

"You are quite resilient ... for a foreigner."

"I grew up with a rough crowd."

Sa'di proceeded to bat away the strikes of the angry Bralani and dodge a final lightning bolt from Elias' wand, all while blocking Kiyoko's deadlier blows.

"No, really. I enjoy a woman who can take this level of punishment!"

If nothing else, the constant pressure seemed to consume his attention, ensuring no further blows landed on Kiyoko.

"Okay, now you're really starting to sound like my grandfather. It might have been the most unsexy thing you could have said."

"If your grandfather is Qadiran, this explains much ..."

"Tian-Min, sadly enough."

"... what is that, a kind of fancy dog?"

"...yes. Yes it is."

Reconsidering her strategy, Kiyoko declined to continue the exchange of blows. Instead, she reached out to grab Sa'di in a bear hug. Taken aback by the maneuver, the bandit was caught, though the Bralani continued to flail.

"THIS IS VERY FORWARD!"

"IT'S THE WAY OF MY PEOPLE!"

Sa'di attempted to cut through the grapple, to no avail, though he managed to weaken Kiyoko's grip enough for him to push away from her.

"This foreplay has gone on too long. Your friend is prettier anyway!"

"Yeah, but her ex is a pain in the ass. Or so I'm told."

As if on cue, the spirits surrounding Ellarie lashed out and managed to land a blow on Sa'di. They were followed by the Bralani, which finally managed to cut through his defenses. Taking advantage of his distraction, Kiyoko brought a hand to one of her wounds and gathered a fistful of blood that she threw in Sa'di's face, blinding him momentarily. Before he could wipe it away, Ellarie rushed to take advantage, and with a series of mighty blows hacked his head clean from his body.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Stirring from his sleep, Hammerhead cricked his neck as he awoke, his mithril full plate clinking about as he eased himself up. Walking out of his tent, a frown crossed his face as the recollections of the night previous came to him.

Once they had arrived at the falls, Cassandra had turned into a bird and gone up to look at what they were up against. As it turned out, they were facing no fewer than forty spriggans, and some of the standing stones that Devarre had spoken of were missing. Wanting to warn the archdruid, Cassandra had briefly chosen a campsite for them before flying back - only to return just after midnight, with news that the druid's home had burnt to the ground, with neither hide nor hair of him present.

This needs to end now. None must escape.

Polishing the Last Word, Hammerhead downed a quick breakfast of dwarven traveling rations - cold smoked sausage and salt pork on prime dwarven hardtack, with dried root vegetables as an accompaniment.

Once he had eaten, he then turned to Margot and Cassandra.

"Alright, lasses. It's time to show these murdering brats who's boss."

As they approached, Cassandra enchanted him with two spells - one she claimed would improve his swimming, and another that would allow him to 'swim' through the air. Having been enchanted thus, Hammerhead then produced his most prized treasure from the Dragon's lair - Halkon Honeytongue's flask. Drinking deep of it, he felt the whiskey burn his throat, and then, with a bellow, charged into battle.

"MUCKLE DARMED SPRIGGANS! HERE'RE ME LAST WORD ON BURNING THE FOREST DOWN!"

I confess I don't remember the formal name of Halkon Honeytongue's flask, but if I recall, it gives 3d8+5 HP (as per Cure Serious Wounds) and Heroism upon drinking a dose, correct?

[Nefarion Xid]

Elias et al
Southern Fog Hills

The unimaginatively named Fog Hills south of the Fog Mountains were not at all foggy. Rather, there was a perfectly normal amount of atmospheric haze and the peaks were unsurprisingly obscured from the planes. By contrast, the Fog Hills were neither foggy, nor hazy. They were satisfactorily hilly, as the party observed from a distance as they took the long and mostly flat highway east to Yanmass.

"Why do they call them the World's Edge Mountains?" Philip wondered aloud on the eighth day of the journey while attempting to learn to ride side-saddle so as to avoid chaffing, or at least spread it around. He gestured south-east, proving he at least knew enough geography to not get his mountain ranges confused. The World's Edge Mountains weren't visible, but they would be as the party neared Yanmass.

"That's an awfully fatalistic view of Qadira, isn't it? The proper world ends here. If you go any farther, it's just ****ing Qadira. If Qadira's so rich, they must be doing something right?"

Further musing was cut short as a column of riders moved into view from behind a hill and a bend to the east, two miles ahead and headed this way. The banners were hard to make out from this distance, but Elias surmised the green and blue one must belong to House Vallas. Only a Duke could afford near fifty men and horses in glinting plate armor anyway.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"You can be rich and still doing it wrong. Just look at Sa'di! He didn't even offer me a good dowry." Kiyoko's muttering was brought to a halt with the arrival of troops. "What do you think, guys? Play it cool? I don't think I've done anything to aggravate the duke, so..."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

The corner of Ellarie's mouth twitched with amusement.

"Yes, well he did think I was pretty, so he wasn't all bad." Her eyes caught the movement of the troops in the distance just as Kiyoko's head turned to the east.

She mused silently for a moment before she nodded in agreement, as she attempted to gauge the number of men headed towards them.

"By all means, let's play it cool. Cool is our middle name." Her eyes fell back to her friends as she began a magical intonation with a grin and shrug. You never knew.

Cast Glibness on myself. Dur 80 mins.

[Nefarion Xid]

Elias et al

As the column of riders neared, Ellarie could count forty-eight men plus a number of servants bringing up the rear. Not exactly a large force, but they all appeared to be well armed and armored. Most of the men wore full plate and bright surcoats from so many noble houses that Elias could scarcely name them all. Among the lead riders, he identified Houses Vallas, Renamir, Octavius, and Ferris. Once they'd drawn to a hundred feet, the first rider set out from the pack a ways and removed his helmet to reveal a mess of wavy auburn locks and a trim beard.

"Well met, travelers! Pray, a moment of your time. I am Lysander Vallas. My men and I seek a band of Qadiran thieves so as to deliver the Duke's justice. Have you heard of them?"

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

She didn't need to fake a smile at the handsome knight, polite and gallant.

"Well met indeed, good Sir! I am Ellarie Chapman. If your Duke's justice meant removing the bandit Sa'di's scoundrel head from his body, then it is a happy coincidence that we have met. My companions and I have come from just that task, with success." She gestured at the others.

"Also, we have come with news of Lady Cassandra Vallas, the Duke's daughter. I would assume you a relation of hers as well. The hair gives it away I think." She smiled brightly, pleased at being a welcome bearer of good news for a change.

[Nefarion Xid]

Elias, Ellarie & Kiyoko

A half-smile spread under Lysander's bushy red mustache.

You detect a momentary wistful or pained expression in Lysander.

"Yes, how is my sister? It's been months since I've seen Cassandra. Is she well? And please, take your time explaining what you mean by 'that task' with the villain Sa'di."

He waved forward the other lead riders, who likewise removed their helmets. The first, in Renamir's colors (white field with a red sunburst) had a long, sallow face. His balding black hair and unpleasant, gaunt expression gave the appearance that he was several years older than he was. Or perhaps he really was much older and had avoided building up any wrinkles by never smiling. The second was a hulk of a man with braided brown hair and a nasty scar across his lips that his beard couldn't hide. He stood out from the other riders not only in his immense size, but in that he was dressed in much simpler armor with no device to indicate which House he served.

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Her head titled to one side unconsciously as she tried to discern the source of Lysander's discomfort.

"When we parted, she was quite well yes. She has been knighted by the Duchess of Belhaim for her courageous acts in the service to that town." A small smile of reassurance accompanied her words, and covered the remaining bitterness of that occasion.

"As far as "the task" with Sa'di, that same Duchess bid myself and my companions to see if we might be able to deal with the bandits that had been harrying travelers north of town. Those bandits happened to be Sa'di and his band of Quadiran henchmen. There were..." She trailed off and raised an eyebrow at the others in askance.

"What, 38 of them..?" She shrugged.

"It matters little, they have been dealt with and we carry Sa'di's head to show your Father as proof of our deeds." She smiled mildly as though three and a half adventurers taking on ten times their number and coming out ahead was a perfectly ordinary occurrence.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

As the flying cauldron took Margot and Cassandra closer, the druidess lifted up her holly and mistletoe and uttered a few words, calling down a burst of flame upon the farthest group of their enemies (that she could see).

Alrighty, Flame Strike (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/f/flame-strike/) on S19, S20, S21, S37, S38, and S39. Damage: [roll0]. Half of this is fire, and half is divine. They can make a reflex save (DC 20) for half. Spell Resistance (if any) applies.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Fly-charging toward the nearest Spriggan, Hammerhead let out a roar as he slammed his hammer down on its head from the air.

Charging at S2! In addition to Halkon Honeytongue's flask, Hammerhead also downed his Mutagen beforehand, giving him +4 STR, -2 INT, and +2 Natural AC.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Nefarion Xid]

Elias, Ellarie & Kiyoko

A look passed between the three men. Lysander grinned. Renamir's man sneered. The one with the braids erupted into barking laughter, either incredulous or just jarringly amused by the prospect.

"You killed Sa'di and his riders?" he asked, wiping away a tear. "You and what army? The foreign devil and the ponce behind you? Or the child?"

Any further speculation about the lethality of Ellarie's companions was immediately silenced as Lysander's gauntlet slammed into the man's nose. He didn't cry out. Judging by the blood leaking down his beard and the unfortunate angle of his septum, Lysander had broken his nose, but he did nothing but glower unhappily.

"Know your place, Garth." Lysander didn't look at him. "These people have done better than disposing of Qadiran filth. They're dragon slayers. Isn't that right, miss?" His green eyes glittered and a knowing smile crept up.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"Oni." Kiyoko interjected from nowhere. "One quarter wind yai oni, if you insist on bringing race into it. I'm not related to any devils."

[TheDarkDM]

Elias

Finally spurred into action by the disrespect shown himself and his companions, Elias nudged his horse to stand alongside Ellarie's. Bringing a hand to his breast and conveniently brushing the dragonskin mantle that hung across his shoulders, Elias bowed slightly to Lysander.

"Well met, Sir Vallas. Sir Elias Apion, at your service. We were indeed fortunate enough to participate in ridding Belhaim of its draconic menace, but I would not expect you and your men to abandon your hunt purely on our word."

He reached behind himself to pat a laden saddlebag.

"We have brought Sa'di's head and helm as proof of our deed. You are free to examine them should you wish."

[Nefarion Xid]

Elias, Ellarie & Kiyoko

"Qadiran men smell foul in life. I can't imagine death has done him any favors," Lysander laughed. "I believe you. But, you can show me the head after we eat. I've worked up quite an apatite on the road today and I don't want it spoiled. You'll join us? We may as well camp -- we'll ride home tomorrow and deliver the good news to father."

He turned to give the order for the scouts to find a place to camp for the night, then smiled at Ellarie. "You must tell me the full story. Don't spare any details."

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

Her face flushed red in anger as Braids brayed his condescension at them.

"The Qadrians found us quite unassuming as well." Ellarie directed her humorless smile at the laughing man.

"Sa'di at least was smarter. Though he is dead as well" Her cold blue eyes turned upon Lysander once again as he sought to ease the tensions Braid's laughter had wrought. She could feel herself relax as his easy laughter and friendly invitation to join their camp soothed her hot temper. She pointedly ignored Braids.

"We will join your camp tonight. And your dinner. Thanks." She brightened as her thoughts turned to the impending meal. She looked at Lysander with some surprise, flattered by his attentions. Her eyes momentarily drifted to Elias seated upon his horse next to her, it was but a seconds pause. She barely registered the motion herself.

"I am sure we would all be happy to regale our adventures once we're settled at camp. But where to begin?" Her grin was playful as she looked to Kiki and Elias for help with their tale.

[Nefarion Xid]

Cassandra, Margot, Yandeath

The Spriggan camp exploded into a roiling mass of confusion and anger. Between the screaming and battle cries, any of the spriggans still sleeping were roused and readied their weapons. Some, particularly those near enough to see their comrades incinerated, dove for the safety of the tree line and scrambled for the ever-present briar where they vanished. Near Yandeath, several of the green monsters transformed, growing until they were ten feet tall -- thankfully this seemed to take their full concentration. Others pelted the dwarf with dagger-like thorns that they plucked from their shoulders. Most bounced harmlessly off his armor or missed him entirely, but one caught him under the greave (3 points of damage).

The second hail of thorns targeted the women in the cauldron. None dealt any damage, though one came dangerously close to Cassandra's hair and toppled into the cauldron with a ping.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

"Ye'll have to try harder than THAT!"

Hammerhead swung again, heaving the Last Word around.

Working clockwise! Gonna start off with 24, then move on to 27 if I kill that.

Attack 1: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Attack 2: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Seeing the success of her first column of divine fire meet with success, Cassandra decided her best course of action was to simply do it again.

Flame Strike on S5, S6, S7, S14, S25, S26, and S33.
Damage: [roll0] half fire, half divine.
Reflex DC to halve damage: 20

[Nefarion Xid]

Cassandra, Margot, Yandeath

While the spriggans continued to impotently pelt their attackers with thorns (or flee as the injured ones did), four previously unseen fey arrived at the battle. Atop the rocky cliff to the east, two haggard redcaps with longbows sprang from the woods and loosed arrows at Hammerhead, both harmlessly deflecting off his back plate. At the same time, two women emerged from the freezing river, beautiful, slender pale things beneath a mop of long black hair. In harmony, they raised their hands and gestured languidly for Hammerhead to come join them. For a moment, he caught their gaze through the battle, thinking the lasses needed to be saved from the swift, cold river. The notion was quickly dispelled as he realized it was only a fey trick, and these creatures surely wanted to drown him.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

"You know what my favorite vegetable is? Summer SQUASH!"

Hammerhead continued to swing his hammer around...

The first target will be S24, then S3.
Attack 1: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Attack 2: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Mind the Redcaps!" Cassandra shouted to Yandeath before casting another spell. "They're nasty little creatures!"

Flame Strike on S17, S18, S19, and S36.
Damage: [roll0]
DC 20 reflex save for half.

[Nefarion Xid]

Cassandra, Margot, Yandeath

Having expended their only trick that could have turned the tide of battle, the twin kelpies hissed, revealing a mouth full of black fangs, before darting back beneath the water. Meanwhile, Margot loosed a dart of glittering energy at the Redcaps on the hill where it exploded in a shower of minute glassy shards. The redcaps guarded their eyes for a moment, then went back to taking pot-shots at Hammerhead. The arrows whizzed by harmlessly.

On the beach, the spriggans didn't fair any better. Another volley of thorns scattered through the trees and only a few clattered against the cauldron of Hammerhead's armor. The enlarged spriggans had gotten their battleaxes ready and flailed at the dwarf was he was still within reach, though they could not find purchase. The bulk of the force who hadn't been pressed into battle retreated into the forest.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

Raising her focal items once more, Cassandra mage a gesture and uttered a few words, calling forth rain of dirt, gravel, and small pebbles to fill a large area, pummeling the enemies beneath.

Standard Action to cast Stone Call (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/s/stone-call/)
Damage: [roll0]
Area affected is difficult terrain for 8 rounds.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Having run out of puns for the moment, Hammerhead swung at the only remaining giant Spriggan next to him.

Both attacks are on S1.

Attack 1: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Attack 2: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Nefarion Xid]

Cassandra, Margot, Yandeath

Within moments, the entirety of the assembled wicked fey had fallen or fled. The redcaps screamed curses before turning to vanish into the wooded hillside. The spriggans that could make it to the safety of the bramble did, the rest were cut down (or rather pulped). When the last of the terrified screams had gone, the river was once again silent spare for the rumble of the falls and the lapping of water on the shore.

Should you begin to collect loot, you find in the camp ...

20 Cold Iron Battleaxes
20 Chain shirts
28 doses of Greenblood Oil
6 Cure Light Wounds potions
293 strange elongated hexagonal coins made of mithral, free of any decoration or writing (valued at 5860 gp as they weigh 1/25th of a pound each)
18 flasks of alchemical fire
A set of jade dice with a d4, d8, d12, d20, two d10s and three d6 (estimated value 100 gp)
8 wooden casks filled with a truly acrid smelling greenish yellow wine
A +1 Unholy Fey Bane Mithral dagger, the handle takes the shape of a naked nymph with her arms raised overhead to grasp the bottom of the blade. The dagger is contained in a darkwood case with a dark green crushed velvet lining which was neatly wrapped in a bit of black silk.

You gain 6535 XP

EEK

Growing up, Elias had heard that Castle Vallas was one of the grandest homes in Taldor (and therefor the world, since obviously Taldor had the best castles). It did not disappoint. As they say in real estate, location is everything, and Castle Vallas owed everything to the mountain. A twenty foot wide switch-back trail ran up the tumble of moss and stone to the first yawning gatehouse. From there, moving east, a bridge crosses a sixty foot chasm to another gatehouse and a lowered drawbridge. This was the curtain proper which surrounded fifty acres of land tucked away in the shaded cleft of the first of the Fog Peaks. The keep was almost entirely vertically inclined, hewn from the mountain itself and climbing another three hundred feet straight up. Following its design was difficult at times and it became difficult to distinguish what was castle and what was not.

Elias realized three things at once as the party of seventeen road into the jagged shadow near dusk. First, the castle had almost assuredly been built by dwarves (though he couldn't decide to which millennium the style belonged, nor precisely who the previous inhabitants might have been). Second, it would likely offend his host to inquire as to either of these mysteries as, obviously, all Taldan castles were built by Taldan hands. Third, that Sa'di could not possibly have taken this castle -- not with forty bowmen, not with four thousand. At best, the bandits could have starved them out by raiding the outlying farms ... for two or three years.

Lysander, had begun to count Ellarie and Elias as friends in the four day journey and encouraged them to ride by him at the head of the column. Quiet (mostly) Kiyoko had been nearly forgotten despite her involvement in slaying the dragon and all the adventure leading up to it. The nobleman frequently asked for painfully detailed descriptions of all they'd seen and done, particularly on matters arcane. While Elias concluded he had no real knowledge of spellcraft, he was bright and enthusiastic and so did his best to ask questions ask intelligent questions, banal as they were to a mage.

As they approached, a shepherd saw the banners and began hurriedly moving his flock off the road so that the party could past. Lysander said nothing, but gave a toothy, prideful smile and glanced sideways between his new friends.

[Othniel]

Cassandra

After Crocker had set down once more, Cassandra clambered out of the oversized cauldron and set Conall free from his crystalline refuge. Once the spoils of battle had been sorted into a pile, the druidess stood amidst the wreckage of the spriggan camp and looked at her companions. "That was well-fought, but we should take thought quickly as to our next step and not linger in case any of them come back or more come through the breach up yonder." Cassandra gestured upward toward where she had ventured into the strange twilight version of their world. "We still do not know if Devarre is alive or dead, and Queen Syntira must be warned if he did not make it...and yet, I feel we should also warn Bellis. What do you two think?"

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead pulled at his beard as he thought hard.

"You're a druid, right, Cassandra? Is there any way you could convince one of the forest's feathered denizens to deliver a message to Bellis? That way, we could warn them properly without leaving Queen Syntira to the wolves, and vice-versa."

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

The fortification was impressive. Kiyoko ignored the sheep and examined it for a bit. The architecture was very different than what she was used to back in Minkai, and for good reason - Minkaian castles tended to be built partly in accordance with Kami Law so as to ward against spiritual threats in addition to mortal ones, even if the defense against more mundane attacks suffered a bit. She had seen this architecture before, though... closer to Kalsgard.

"Dwarven make? It's an impressive bastion."

[Othniel]

Cassandra

"Yes, druidess. That's me," replied Cassandra absentmindedly as she turned the unholy dagger over in her hands. "Ah, I mean yes, I can. Tomorrow, at any rate. I have not prepared it today, as we intended on battle. As it turns out, I did not need all of my offensive spells." She pondered the situation for a moment before making a suggestion. "I have the ability to scrye on others. What I propose is this: We return to Devarre's house, search the ruins for anything useful - particularly a personal possession, which makes scrying somewhat easier - and then make a decision on whether to go back to Bellis or to press on to Darkmoon Vale in case Master Devarre is no more."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hammerhead

Hammerhead

"That seems as good a plan as any to me."

He then turned southward.

"Let us depart."

[Nefarion Xid]

EEK

Brushing past Kiyoko, the cook tutted, "No. No dwarves here, miss. The Prince certainly isn't a dwarf." He proceeded to look quite pleased with himself for correcting the dumb foreigner.

Before she could formulate her words, the mousey valet Ellarie had observed struck the cook in the back of the head with an open palm. "Idiot. The dwarves built it. We took it from them in the 17th century. Originally, it was a trading outpost and sort of a summer retreat."

"I don't ..." the cook began. "I mean, my gran's worked here since she was a girl and she's never seen a dwarf."

The valet made a pleading grasp to the sky and balled his fists. He walked in silence after that.

AFter twenty minutes, the party had filed through the narrow pass, past the first gate house, over the bridge and into the castle grounds. A small reception had gathered here: twelve men in mail with blue and green surcoats, what was essentially a middle aged version of Cassandra, a dazzling young woman with a cascade of gold hair, and on her arm, a slender bespectacled man who looked obviously smitten. He whispered something in the blonde's ear and she giggled demurely as the party began to dismount.

Lysander went at once to his mother, embracing her and kissing her on the forehead. She wore her auburn her in an elaborate braid, pulled up in a bejeweled net. Only the fine lines about her eyes and her papery hands belied her age, otherwise she might have passed for Cassandra's less athletic, slightly curvier sister.

Still with an armored hand clasping his mother's, Lysander turned and gestured to Elias and Ellarie as stable boys appeared to take their horses. "Mother, allow me to introduce my friends: Sir Elias, Miss Ellarie Chapman, and Kyoto. Friends, my mother, Lady Raissa."

Her eyes brightened, evidently recognizing the names. "And just in time for dinner. Will you join us?" It wasn't a question. "It will be lovely. We have other guests, so it will be lively, I think. Master Apion isn't it? Oh, wizards are always fascinating conversation. So nice to meet you, dear." She offered a hand to Elias.

Following some imperceptible cue, the blonde woman took a step forward. "Yes! We have time for everyone to wash up from the road. And I'd be happy to find you something to wear," she offered hopefully to the two women, doubting they'd packed proper dinner attire in their bags.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

"What's wrong with this?" The Tian-Min woman tilted her head a bit. She kept her expression blank, deliberately so. She knew perfectly well what was wrong with wearing armor to a dinner party, but after they couldn't be bothered to get her name right, she was feeling contrary.

[PepperP.]

Ellarie

"A pleasure, You Grace." She was bemused by how much Cass resembled her mother. And impressed by the grandness of the Druidess's home. Somehow the luxury of the castle life seemed less detestable now that she herself had been invited to enjoy it. Her head turned fractionally to her friend as she inquired upon her armor. A still alarm grew within her as she turned her face back to the castle denizens, so oblivious to the tempest they might unleash upon themselves in their lofty ignorance. Ellarie regarded each in turn, her face a placid neutral though in reality, she was trying to decide who to go for first if Kiyoko's patience wore overly thin.

"This is Kiyoko." She enunciated the Tiefling's name carefully, an easy smile upon her lips with a glance at Lysander. An easy mistake to make, she nearly spoke out loud in an attempt to diffuse the awkwardness but she stopped herself. There was no real reason why Lysander shouldn't know Kiyoko's proper name after days of travel together. She would not diminish the importance of her friend for the benefit of these strangers.

"A bath and suitable dress for dinner would be greatly appreciated, My Lady." She turned her attention to the lovely golden haired woman who had spoken, not able to keep her delighted grin from her face at the prospect of bathing and playing dress up. She turned fractionally towards Kiyoko and sent her a Message in Skald under her breath.

"Doesn't a hot bath sound good? I'll let you wash my back if you play nice." She snickered to herself as she waited to see which way it would go as her stomach rumbled, knowing she was not nearly as worried as she should be. It was hard to worry on an empty stomach.

[Jade_Tarem]

Kiyoko

The tiefling turned fractionally back to Ellarie. (Skald) "It does. However, I'm not sure I want to part with my equipment in a place like this. Doing so invites trouble where I come from."