In no particular hurry, Draeven waits for the smoke to clear... after which he heads on up the stairs.
Rennyn moves to protectively place himself between Ameiko and any threats that may present themselves as they follow Draeven up. Stay behind me. Who knows what other tricks them may have up their sleeves... your highness. The last bit sounds almost like a question.
Did you really include a link to a pdf download for arson investigation?
SAt NaV | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ...
Minutes pass, seeming more like hours, but eventually the crackle of burning wood dies and the smoke in the stairwell clears enough that anyone in the group can see their way through all the mess. A strong smell of burned wood and fabric fills the air and all turns quiet save for the soft fluttering of Spivey's wings amidst the shifting of stances among the group.
Rennyn's protectiveness of Ameiko does not go unnoticed. In the long silence as the door above burns itself out of existence, the Tian hostess looks up at the ceiling and confides, I'm sure we're fine here Rennyn, you can relax a bit I think. Besides, that title is premature. We are a loong way from Minkai and I don't know if... the bard sighs and shakes her head uncertainly. She has a lot on her mind.
Trogs:
DEFENSE: AC 15, touch 9, flat-footed 15 | HP 13 Fort +7, Ref –1, Will +0
OFFENSE: Speed 30 ft. | Melee club +2 (1d6+1), claw –3 (1d4), bite –3 (1d4) or2 claws +2 (1d4+1), bite +2 (1d4+1) | Ranged javelin +0 (1d6)
Orbakhag: A trog | HP 20 | Melee +1 cold iron morningstar +5 (1d8+4), claw –1 (1d4+1), bite –1 (1d4+1) (Round 11: Gather's tapestry)
Damage Tracker:
-Red Female 8/13 HP attacked by a now dead Murderous Commando
Two males and Orbakhag remain.
Seeing the door catch fire, the Trogs regroup to -C71...
Obviously we have missed some parts of the castle if we didn't come across the Trogs previously. We should complete our sweep of the castle before returning to the wagons.
There must be more to the dungeons than that? Another way down perhaps?
Fenra looks a bit bashful for not thinking of it while waiting for the smoke to clear and adds, Did we even thoroughly check this area to make sure there are no other exits we may have missed?
We can all take a moment to look for additional hidden doors before we head up the stairs and dispatch with the Trogs. If they are still waiting for us that is. If they are smart, they will have fled the castle entirely.
I don't think Trogs are especially bright... Draeven replies loudly enough that they could easily hear him from the top of the stairs. Satisfied in his goading, he searches for a hidden doorway before leading the group upstairs.
Fenra leaves the search to those more capable and instead admires some of the more interesting loot.
When the decision is made to leave she follows the rest upstairs. Ready to defend if the group is attacked again.
SAt NaV | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ...
A thorough search of the chamber and adjoining vaults confirm there is no other way in or out. Taking the lead, Draeven climbs the stone steps to the main floor and the late Captain's office. Lingering traces of smoke from the smoldering ruins of the wooden door raise slowly from the floor. Partially covering a fire ravaged tapestry, what few embers that remain lack the fuel required to return them to life. Torn down from the wall, the Troglodytes employed the tapestry as a crude covering over the door to ensure the smoke remained in the vaults so as to suffocate the party. Other than this vandalism, the room remains as you had left it. The faint tell tale fish odor, distinctive of the lizard folk, lolls but a search of the two adjacent rooms turns up nothing. The pungent odor disappears at the stairs leading up, returning again near the hallway .
With a sullen Ameiko bringing up the rear, Draeven follows his nose back into the throne room. Pools of corby blood congeal around the fallen on the otherwise empty floor . All is as it was left, or at least almost. A single wooden strip of vertical moulding has come away from the wall casting a fine shadowy line along its edge.
Trogs:
DEFENSE: AC 15, touch 9, flat-footed 15 | HP 13 Fort +7, Ref –1, Will +0
OFFENSE: Speed 30 ft. | Melee club +2 (1d6+1), claw –3 (1d4), bite –3 (1d4) or2 claws +2 (1d4+1), bite +2 (1d4+1) | Ranged javelin +0 (1d6)
Orbakhag: A trog | HP 20 | Melee +1 cold iron morningstar +5 (1d8+4), claw –1 (1d4+1), bite –1 (1d4+1) (Round 11: Gather's tapestry)
Damage Tracker:
-Red Female 8/13 HP attacked by a now dead Murderous Commando
Two males and Orbakhag remain.
Seeing the door catch fire, the Trogs regroup to -C71...
No one in the party is trying to be stealthy, assume normal walking noise, DC 10-15.
Trog -C73 and Orbakhag (-D73) Readied Action to attack first thing to come through the door nearest them.
Spying the newly revealed secret door elicits a grunt from Draeven. See? Making sure everyone is ready first, he then yanks/kicks the door open and steps back, bardiche in hand.
As the group ascends the stairs and taking note of Ameiko's demeanor Rennyn asks her what is bothering her.
When Draeven signals that he is about to open the door, Rennyn places himself between it and Ameiko, sword held protectively in front of him..
SAt NaV | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ...
Ameiko shakes her head and points to the seal in her satchel. In a hushed voice the Tian confides, Its this. I've never dreamed of being a princess, much less queen or what ever it is in Minkai. Rich? Hell yeah! Just speaking of riches lights up her face but the expression is quickly wiped off, Grandfather was right, this is a burden Rennyn. I need time to think.
Init...
Rennyn adjusts his position between the door and Ameiko and the others follow suit . When the big man yanks open the concealed door, the rancid smell of four 'missing' troglodytes assaults you senses. Laying in wait, the tiny group of lizards immediately turn to see Draeven, each with a surprised looks upon their faces. With the troglodytes plans to ambush the group foiled, they instinctively look to the larger of the group for guidance. The blue lizard man barks and the nearest troglodyte tosses his javelin in Draeven's direction. Unconcerned, Draeven cocks his head to the side, easily evading the projectile...
Trogs:
DEFENSE: AC 15, touch 9, flat-footed 15 | HP 13 Fort +7, Ref –1, Will +0
OFFENSE: Speed 30 ft. | Melee club +2 (1d6+1), claw –3 (1d4), bite –3 (1d4) or 2 claws +2 (1d4+1), bite +2 (1d4+1) | Ranged javelin +0 (1d6)
Orbakhag: A trog | HP 20 | Melee +1 cold iron morningstar +5 (1d8+4), claw –1 (1d4+1), bite –1 (1d4+1) (Round 11: Gather's tapestry)
Damage Tracker:
-Red Female 8/13 HP attacked by a now dead Murderous Commando
Two males and Orbakhag remain.
No one in the party is trying to be stealthy, assume normal walking noise, DC 10-15.
Shame about your aim...
Draeven lunges at the Trog that hurled the javelin with his pole ax...
...and runs it through. Twisting and yanking his weapon back brings the creatures entrails out with it along with a spray of crimson blood.
Rennyn sees the door open and the javelin fly past Draeven's head and springs into action, charging into the room with sword raised. Spying the group of troglodytes bunched up by the door he swings in a sweeping arc...
...catching two of the trogs with the keen edge of his blade.
Fenra waits for the blood to finish being spilled, morningstar ready in the off chance something slips through.
SAt NaV | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | The Dungeon...
Init...
The moment the door concealing their presence failed to close properly, the fate of the four troglodytes laying in ambush was sealed. Discovering the ruse, Draeven wastes little time in skewering the first lizard man and freeing up some space for the second wave. Stepping neatly into the room, Rennyn's keen blade whirls through two more, their severed limbs coming to rest upon the stone floor only seconds before their lifeless bodies.
Following the paladin's lead, Shalelu shifts her position bringing her bow to bear. Two arrows whiz through the air striking the big lizard full in the chest rending a few links of his chain mail armor as the tips stain red with blood.
Propelled by tiny wings Spivey positions herself as she raises her starknife in her tiny hand. But rather than launch the delicate looking weapon she instead enchants it, bringing the gleam of the four blades to life. Catching the light from Jeryn's floating orbs, the starknife blades amplify the magical light then direct the now brilliant light in flashing waves across the lizard man's eye's. Dazed by the display, the troglodyte stands still for a moment, as he attempts to clear his vision.
Raising his staff, Jeryn releases one of his trademark spells which slams into the lizard man's chest, knocking it back a step.
Off balance and unable to focus the big lizard is an easy target and what little life is left within his bones is swiftly torn from him by Draeven's pole ax and Rennyn's blade. Falling to his knees the lizard man's grip upon a his weapon loosens causing the sturdy yet ornate morningstar to clatter upon the stone floor. As the swish of steal and sounds of falling bodies diminish, the halls of Brinewall Castle fall silent.
Trogs:
DEFENSE: AC 15, touch 9, flat-footed 15 | HP 13 Fort +7, Ref –1, Will +0
OFFENSE: Speed 30 ft. | Melee club +2 (1d6+1), claw –3 (1d4), bite –3 (1d4) or 2 claws +2 (1d4+1), bite +2 (1d4+1) | Ranged javelin +0 (1d6)
Orbakhag: A trog | HP 20 | Melee +1 cold iron morningstar +5 (1d8+4), claw –1 (1d4+1), bite –1 (1d4+1) (Round 11: Gather's tapestry)
Damage Tracker:
-Red Female (Dead)
Two males (Dead)
Orbakhag (Dazed, 3/20HP)
Kenan nods to the others impressed with the speed the trogs were dealt with. So much for them ambushing us! Where to now Renyn? He asks his arrow knocked to his bow string in case of any other surprises.
Fenra eyes the morningstar with interest, examining it to see if it is better than her own, or prettier anyway.
With the party out of danger and much of the group waiting on either Ameiko, who seems distracted, or Rennyn for direction , Fenra has ample time to examine the weapon. The fine red oak shaft has been stained over time with mud and the blood of others, yet this is nothing a little cleaning can't remedy. Set with gold, the wood has been stained a beautiful deep plum and the weapon feels well balanced in the oracle's hands. Out of the corner of her eye, Fenra notices Spivey's eyes widen apprehensively, looking a little anxious. However the tiny woman bites her lower lip then affects an encouraging smile.
Opening herself to the heavens, the oracle's eyes take on 'that look'. A look familiar to those who meddle in the arcane and a telling sign Fenra is looking for auras. And she is not disappointed. It only takes her moment to tell this weapon has been enchanted to give its wielder a better chance of striking their opponents, fey in particular.
We should finish our sweep of the castle. Find the rest of the dungeons and make sure it is clear. We could then likely lay claim to the castle and town I'm guessing...
Draven unceremoniously peels the chainmail from the dead trog leader and holds it up, examining it for damage and sizing. What about this? Is it magical Fenra?
SAt NaV | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ... The Dungeon
Fenra's gaze falls upon the chainmail shirt however there are no auras to be seen. Apart from the two puncture holes, which can be easily repaired back at camp, the armour is quite ordinary.
With the intent of uncovering the source of this latest nuisance, the group retraces their steps, checking doors not previously opened. While nothing more of interest is found on the main level, two doors are discovered to conceal stairways leading down to the lower level of the castle. Wider than the stairs descending to the vault, each stairway is utilitarian in nature.
Below, the dungeon level is musky, damp and reeking of troglodyte; rotting fish and stale latrine. The main chamber still holds long benches in various states of disrepair paired with several battered and filthy wooden tables standing between stone pillars.
To the north is the kitchen. It’s ceiling supported by similar stone pillars, thick layers of dust cover fire pits, tables and pantries which haven’t been used in decades. Paths of dire corby and troglodyte prints cut through the dust leading north and east.
The door west of the kitchen has swollen shut, but not impossible for some. A quick tug at the door by a green hulk reveals a round chamber even more foul smelling than the rest. Dripping with moisture, tiny streams of water runs down the walls in rivulets amid thick tangles of nasty looking fungus. Three washing bins in the walls are completely clogged with heaps of even more repulsive molds and mushrooms.
Branching northwest, the hallway beyond the north door of the kitchen leads to a tangle of stalactites and stalagmites filling this low-ceiling cavern. Only a five foot wide path running along the southern wall is clear from obstruction. Nestled in nooks and crannies throughout are almost a dozen eggs each the size of melons. A lone female Corby tends to the clutch. Instinctively, she moves to protect these treasures, attacking the group head on, but it is folly of her and she is quickly dispatched.
At the end of the cavern is a concealed door. Having nearly completely merged with the surrounding cavern walls, the door may have gone unnoticed were it not for the tiny jet of fresh air escaping from a cracked seam. The passageway beyond winds down past moist rock until it ends at a second partially opened door, the wood of which has filled with sediment and marine life. With no one left to maintain it, it is possible the door was forced open during a storm. Frozen ajar, the cavern beyond is still partially flooded and leads out to a narrow beach at the base of the cliffs some 60ft below the castle walls. Judging from the moisture on the walls and signs of aquatic life, this path must be completely flooded at high tide.
South of the mess hall, the passageway here leads to two chambers. The first appears to be an armoury complete with armour stands, weapon racks and empty shelves. Twenty four years ago, the soldiers stationed here had hastily equipped themselves from these stores. A few pieces still remain from that night, scattered on the floor: a suit of half-plate armour, a heavy steel shield and two wooden cases, one of which contains 40 arrows in fair condition. The second case is of similar size but with its interior divided into ten hand sized compartments cradling nine flasks of alchemist's fire upon handfuls of straw.
Further down the passage, the fifteen foot high ceiling of this hexagonal room is supported by stone pillars. The middle of the room sags in a bowl like depression, leaving a five foot wide ring of level ground. Remnants of a low wooden railing mark the edge of the depression, but most of the fence has collapsed.
East of the kitchen a passage of hewn rock leads to the castle's crypt. An intricate iron screen frames a wooden door painted with the image of a tall, beautiful blue-skinned woman sitting on a throne. Beyond, the room stretches dozens of feet supported by stone pillars and with deep funerary alcoves to the north and south. The far end of the room seems to have partially collapsed into a large cavern. None of the burial niches here escaped plunder. Only the names of those laid to rest remains; beside each name, the seal of Brinewall. The exposed cavern east of here is much larger than the previous nesting site and shows signs of Corby nesting activity. However, unlike the smaller cavern, this one does not contain any eggs. To the south, the cavern descends to rubble, collapsed either by time or other means. A passage to the north eventually leads to another secret entrance to the castle, emerging in the forest to the east of the castle walls.
On the other side of the kitchen, double doors lead south to a cool room. A domed ceiling supported by four stone pillars surround a small pool of dark water laying at its centre. The pool of water is actually the top of a fresh water well making this room the castle's primary water supply. At one time, wooden barrels and crates filled with supplies would have kept the castle's kitchen stocked, but not now.
A second set of double doors leads to another foul smelling room. Not quite a torture chamber, a filthy nest-like bed complete with black feathers lies in the middle of the room, heaped around a central stone pillar. Nearby is another pile of clothes; the remains of a dark navy dress hemmed with white wolf fur and an empty black leather satchel. Three cells made of iron bars border the chamber's north and south facing walls. Only one is currently occupied by a lone human female. Stripped naked and strapped into a low standing pillory, she is forced to her knees. The woman's face is marred with lacerations and bruising. Shoved into her mouth is a crude metal funnel, held in place with two leather strips which have been tied round her head. The rest of her body speaks of more deranged cruelty, deep bruising and abuse. Barely conscious, her head lolls to one side as the group enters, one nostril of a broken nose forms a bubble of mucus and blood.
Draeven drops the chainmail having no interest in it being non-magical.
In the discovered armory he does look at the half-plate with mild interest.
We should divide up the alchemist's fire, he says grabbing two for himself.
When the woman is discovered, Draeven immediately moves to open the cell...
As Draeven attempts to open the cell, Rennyn crouches down near the bars and calmly remarks, We are here to help, as he reaches through the bars and lays a hand on the woman's shoulder, healing her with his touch.
He then removes the funnel and the restraining straps.
Fenra, fetch her clothes please.
SAt NaV | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ... The Dungeon
Shalelu nods in agreement with Draeven, taking two flasks of the charged liquid for herself. Turning to Jeryn she quizzes, Do you suppose this stuff has a shelf life? The wizard's eyebrows wrinkle as he considers the possibility however quickly shakes his head, As long as the canister's seals are in place the contents will remain stable. Noticing Draeven's interest in the half-plate, Jeryn quickly casts a divination, I'm afraid it's the same as the chain mail, I can see no auras.
The elven ranger spends a few more minutes picking through the stash of arrows, selecting a dozen of the more promising looking ones for her quiver before bundling up the rest, These will need a little TLC when we get back to camp.
The cell door is unlocked, a cruel offer of freedom for someone unable to move. As Rennyn's healing touch spreads across the woman's body, sealing cuts and shrinking bruises, an ounce of new life returns to the woman's body. The knots of the tightly tied leather straps keeping the pillory shut have been placed on the side of the contraption, away from the prisoner's view - a few quick cuts take care of these. Removing the funnel is a bit more challenging. The spout is curved and much longer, almost a full foot in length. Designed to extended straight to her stomach cavity, not only did it serve to prevent the prisoner from speaking but also likely to keep her alive by feeding nourishment directly to the stomach. The woman's gag reflex spasms weakly as the funnel is pulled free and weakened larynx muscles strain causing her to gasp for air before crumpling exhausted to the floor.
As Fenra gathers the woman's clothes, Ameiko steps in with an offer of water. The woman sits up to drink but only manages to choke on the water, her throat still aching. Her voice, weak and hoarse manages, Th-aan-ss.
Would you like additional healing?
Allowing the woman a moment to cloth herself while discreetly averting his eyes, Rennyn then introduces himself and the others before asking, We have cleared the castle. What is your name and how did you come to be here? Are there any more of you? Captured and held elsewhere perhaps?
SAt NaV | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ... The Dungeon
Weakly, the woman stands to slip on the remnants of her garment. Despite her condition, she is unashamed, caring little if anyone looks as she dresses. The once stylish full length pencil dress has been altered by a vicious looking rip in the back which travels around to the side and down one thigh. Deep blood stains flow down from the tears while beneath are now the beginnings of three wicked looking scars. On account of her long legs, she stands slightly taller than would be considered an average height for a woman. Her short blonde hair lays in tatters, savagely cut away, it was likely done by her abductors rather than done for style. She has a slim build and broad shoulders, much wider than her hips and one shoulder is noticeably higher than the other. Resting her tired body against the pillory for support she clears her throat shaking her head no to Rennyn's offer, My name is Kelda Oxgutter, her voice is hoarse and the words faint as she gingerly tests her ability to speak. She has a northern accent indicating she is of Ulfen descent. Although she plainly could do with more healing, the proud heritage of these people tells the elf that she is just being stubborn by turning down his offer, I came here by boat with six shield bearers. This detail, and the confession to follow, visibly pains her and Kelda averts her eyes for most of the conversation, We were set upon by a savage sea drake shortly after mooring to the docks. They fought valiantly even after I was separated, but...I cast everything I had at it and we nearly had it beaten. Keldra shakes her head in despair. When it had finished, my colleagues were dead. I was stranded, on the other side of the lagoon, I had no choice but to flee, escape into the woods. I sought refuge by entering the door I knew to be there. Keldra's pale blue eyes look into Rennyn's.
She was immediately captured shortly afterward, set upon by the troglodytes. Badly wounded and depleted of spells the Ulfen woman had thought the castle was deserted. Her captors were brutal in every way, making her perform in perverse plays. She'd tried escaping, using her powers once they'd recovered but the oni was too powerful and the attempt quickly thwarted. In retaliation the tengu had had her gagged and tied to the pillory to prevent her from getting any rest. In her full confession, she tells of having come across partial blueprints for Brinewall Castle in Kalsgard. The plans were old, drafted before construction on Brinewall began and showed the one secret entrance. It should have been easy, but now, I could care less. You have saved me, Kelda's eyes meet each of you in turn, and shown me great kindness, for that I owe you my life. My skills are yours! With her last statement, the blonde woman stands tall, her chin raised stubbornly, defying anyone to reject her offer.
With nothing more to be gained from the castle and all of its rooms and chambers cleared, there is little for the group to do...
After Kelda has finished telling her tale, Jeryn asks Do you recall if those blueprints showed any hidden chambers? We failed to come upon any semblance of a library or study.
Having noticed Kelda's empty satchel, he recites to her an inventory of his spell components and offers to divide them with her to provide any spell foci she requires. As they discuss components he offers her a potion of cure light wounds. He also offers to share any of his water or rations she may have interest in.
Jeryn usually leaves the charity to Rennyn and Fenra but perhaps he can sympathize with the perils of a fellow mage. Perhaps he cannot bear the thought of seeing himself in a similar situation. Or perhaps he just likes blondes.
On our way out should we go back and smash those corby eggs? I could not tell if any were close to maturation. I'm also uncertain if any hatchlings could survive on their own. He shrugs, I suppose if we don't go back we won't have to suffer the stench again.
His nostrils twinge as he looks around the chamber with disgust and mutters Not that it is much better here.
SAt NaV | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ... The Dungeon
Happy to move past, her past, the tall blonde clears her throat and takes a mild interest in what the wizard has to offer. Kelda nods politely but looks anxious, not really sure where to put her hands. It is clear this place gives her the creeps. Towards the end of the conversation, Kelda rubs her hands on her hips then declines to share Jeryn's stash of components or the potion - the girl's body language suggests she'd like nothing better than to leave. When Jeryn inquires about any other hidden chambers, I'm sorry? Kelda shakes her head, a little panic in her voice accompanying the confusion showing in her face as she jumps to a conclusion, If you've been through the castle...wait, you did kill him, didn't you? You've been upstairs, right?! A mixture of emotions flash and there is a definite chill in the air. The girl's eyes narrow and a look of determination settles upon her face, hands clenching, Ok, I'm going with you. I can get you up to the throne room. He calls it his theatre. Together, she quickly sizes up the monk and the axe wielding muscle, we'll kill them all. I just want a dagger, so I can slit his throat! The blonde may have some issues, but there is spunk and her will to fight hasn't been driven from her. Kelda's eyes look to each of you in hopes of someone passing her a weapon.
Draeven had watched the woman dress and didn't care who knew he was watching either. When she started to wind herself up he calmly interjected, They are all dead. All of them. Even the Oni. Especially the Oni, before pulling one of his daggers out and offering it to her.
If there is nothing left here I say we return to camp and check on the others. We've been gone a while.
Agreed. Let's make for the camp.
Turning to Kelda, Keryth inquires, Would it be safe to assume that your companions remains did not receive a proper send off? Would you allow us to help you collect the fallen?
SAt NaV | Town of Brinewall | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ... The Dungeon
The reassurance Draeven offers draws Kelda's attention to the big man. As she takes the dagger her eyes soften and she nods in understanding. Clinging to the small weapon like a security blanket Kelda makes ready to leave placing everything she owns over her shoulder - namely the empty satchel.
My companions died in battle with honor! Kelda's chin raises showing the conviction of her statement, They could ask for no better burial. Then the blonde woman's chin lowers somewhat remorseful, muttering, I should have joined them in death. Finding her voice once more, In truth I do not know if you will find anything. The monster survived, she does not need to finish her sentence. It is clear in her mind the creature likely consumed what remained of her shield bearers. Kelda nods her approval non-the-less, if there are any remains, they should be honored.
The party departs, retracing their path of death and gore the Ulfen is impressed and her mood lightens. By the time you depart Brinewall Kelda stands tall once again, the dagger swinging lazily at her side as she walks. It is as though she were reborn, freed from a living hell. Only the distant stare of her eyes remains, weighted by the heavy scars she now bears on her soul.
Was this monster the size of a house with blue/green scales? If so, I believe I spotted it on our way in here, lurking on the far shore of the bay just south of the bridge. What can you tell us about it?
Spivey, have you seen this creature?
We should kill the drake and give Kelda's comrades remains and proper send off. Is it customary for your people to use a boat as a funeral pyre Kelda? Perhaps we can make due with the longship?
After refreshing myself with our arrival in the town and our cursory exploration of the longship.... I realize we already encountered many of Kelda's dead comrades. And apparently spied the sea drake.
Seems like almost a year ago... :))
SAt NaV | Town of Brinewall | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ... The Dungeon
A little surprised, the tall blonde looks at Draeven and nods at his description. Yes, that sounds right. How did you get past?
With a sigh Kelda reveals what she can of that day, The drake set upon us shortly after we docked. I had just stepped out onto the bridge when it rammed our longboat. Such force, it broke the hull and those aboard lost their footing. When the monster breathed everything flashed a brilliant light and electricity surged through half of my bearers. With the smell of their burning flesh raising in the air I retaliated. For a time it shrugged off my efforts, biting into my bearers. It threw my bearers against the side of the longboat like dolls. When the drake finally came after me, it destroyed the bridge with another blast. Overwhelmed, I ran, the drake clawing at my back - I barely escaped. Tears along the back of Keldra's dress and matching scars corroborate her story.
Spivey hovers nearby, enraptured by Kelda's short tale. I've never seen one, implying she'd never encountered a drake, I spent nearly all of my time in the cemetery avoiding everyone, the tiny woman shrugs her shoulders apologetically, I heard some of the battle, but I didn't dare venture out to investigate. All had been peaceful since, until you came along. Spivey looks longingly in the party's direction.
Shalelu chimes in offering her two coppers, It would have been over in a minute, by the time Spivey reached the docks there would have been nothing she could have done. With the boat and crew destroyed I see nothing to draw the creature out again.
Now Ameiko's voice breaks in,Twelve men and all your magic. There is a hint of awe in her voice, I've heard of fewer encountering drakes and coming away victorious. This one must have been seriously tough and seriously wounded to have not fallen at your hand. It may even have been driven by rage to have chased you so Kelda. The hostess places a reassuring hand on Kelda's broad shoulder, Had it not surprised you, had you been ready... Ameiko nods politely, the rest of her statement left unsaid and open to interpretation but rather than implying fault, a conveyance of understanding is felt.
Had we been ready, perhaps. The Ulfen repeats Ameiko's words then is quiet for a moment as her thoughts dwell on the past. When she breaks the silence it is in answer to Rennyn's offer, That right is reserved for the greatest of our people; Kings, men of legendary skill. My bearers were good men all. They died honorably but none would expect such a high honor. Kelda weighs the meaning a proper burial would have, A plot in Orthost maybe, but Spivey's cemetery will due. Yes, they deserve more than to rot in a broken ship!
Only Spivey displays any trepidation to Rennyn's suggestion of going after the sea monster. As the smallest, the lyrakien is still unsure of herself next to the party of heroes she so bravely followed. The tiny woman remains silent however, far be it from her to voice her fears to a group who capable of taking on an entire castle of Corby and troglodytes.
We strolled along the waters edge and it did not make any move at all.
It is settled then. We can retrieve the dead and give them a proper burial after checking on Sandu and the camp.
SAt NaV | Town of Brinewall | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ... The Dungeon | Lagoon
The party departs Brinewall Castle, letting the bodies inside rot, and turns down the track leading back to town. Kelda takes up a position near Draeven, following just behind and to the side of the big green man. She remains quiet, politely conversing with Ameiko and Spivey about life in the northern realms.
Draeven joins in asking Kelda questions about life in the north and making other small talk. Should we check to see if the thing I spotted earlier is still there?
Might as well. Better to make sure the threat is gone before we return to camp and then to gather the fallen.
Do you think we can lay claim to Brinewall? We cleared it out. Besides, we apparently have an empress with us. Who is to say otherwise?
Ameiko glares at Draeven's Empress comment, but not in an angry way - she knows the big guy is only teasing. However, the topic is still sore with the Tian and she's not even sure herself if all that her grandfather said should be considered true. Any mention of her family's lineage is bound to get her attention.
Kelda's face turns stoic as talk of returning to the lagoon comes up. Clutching the dagger close to her chest once more the tall blonde stays close to the warriors sides
Shalelu runs a finger down the length of her bowstring, checking it for fraying, Agreed. Just knowing it may be there we will be better prepared to face it. Do you have a strategy in mind?
Spivey gives Draeven a quizzical look, Lay claim? Do you mean to live here then?
Shalelu runs a finger down the length of her bowstring, checking it for fraying, Agreed. Just knowing it may be there we will be better prepared to face it. Do you have a strategy in mind?
Nothing in particular no. Try and hit with arrows and stay clear of it? Maybe try and draw it near or onto the shore?
Spivey gives Draeven a quizzical look, Lay claim? Do you mean to live here then?
Draeven shrugs. Maybe. Who knows. Someone should. And we did clear the place. Seems only fitting that we should make the decision. Of course, you have lived here all along, perhaps you should lay claim. At any rate, the place should be revitalized. Good folk should move back in or it is likely to be filled with goblins or worse in no time.
SAt NaV | Town of Brinewall | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ... The Dungeon
The elf maiden nods at Rennyn's thought of strategy. If we can draw it out, Draeven, Kennan and I should try to flank it. Assault it on three sides. Fenra and Jeryn as well, turning to the arcane specialists Shalelu asks, what can you bring to bear?
By the way Rennyn, any ideas on how to lure the creature out?
Spivey's eyes go wider than usual. Draeven's thoughts on the future of Brinewall have struck a cord the tiny woman can relate to. Oh yes! It would be wonderful to have people live here again. I can't tell you how often I've dreamed of that! Can't you just imagine what it would be like?! Spivey flies in irregular circles around the big guy. Course, I've never seen Brinewall with anyone in it other than those Bird brains, but I have fantasized! A short, high pitched giggle fills the air and Spivey shoots straight up over Draeven's head sprinkling him with hundreds of harmless luminescent sparkles which just as quickly disappear. How do you think we should go about this? I've never "claimed" an abandoned town before. You'll be staying too, right?! I really don't see how I could do all this on my own. Spivey's expression takes on a worried turn, but only for a moment. In no time she once again rambles on in wonderment of what to do first, what might be the best way to get people to move here and other things. What roles Draeven and everyone might play here... Her voice is excited but contained, no one feels the least bit concerned that the sound of her excitement would carry much further than a few feet from the group's ears.
Kelda remains stoically silent. She seems either uninterested in the idea of being apart of claiming Brinewall or feels she has no say in the matter. Considering the problem of the drake looming ahead, a little seriousness from the one who almost lost her life to the monster is understandable.
I doubt it will need much coaxing given Kelda's encounter...
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I don't know anything about the proper way to go about it. I would just move in if it were me.
SAt NaV | Town of Brinewall | Brinewall - Upper Level | Main Level | Descending the stairs | ... The Dungeon
The topic of reclaiming Brinewall catches Ameiko's attention. Raising her eyebrow she offers counterpoint with a sly smirk - playing devil's advocate seems like a pleasant enough diversion for her to want to speak up, It may not be as simple as all that. Claiming Brinewall isn't like liberating lost gold or ridding an area of an infestation of goblins. There are probably some letters of application of claim to be submitted. The proper authorities of this region will want to know who's in charge and what your intentions are.
Shalelu interrupts her friend with a scoff, Authorities?! You can't be serious. This region has been abandoned for decades, there is no authority over this land but our own. If there were, soldiers would have been sent ages ago.
True, Ameiko concedes her friend's point, but if we are talking about rebuilding the town and resettling, then word will eventually get out. I mean, I know how to swing a hammer but next to nothing when it comes to masonry. We're going to need skilled laborers who would be willing to settle here. And once that happens, what's to stop an established neighboring territory from just walking in and evicting a bunch of squatters? As much as we'd like to think otherwise, that's all we'd be. Now, Draeven's good, but I doubt he can repair a road any better than he can repel an army, the Tian hostess throws the slayer a wink, No offense big guy. Turning back to Shalelu, I know of a few barristers in Magnimar who would be happy to clear the way. I believe, with the right backers, we could stay the threat of hostile takeovers and have free reign of the place.
Shalelu looks at Ameiko like the girl has just been thrown off of the crazy wagon and landed face first, This whole royalty thing has really started to go to your head, hasn't it?
The comment borders on offensive yet Ameiko rolls her eyes and childishly pokes her tongue out in retaliation. She knows the jab was meant in jest and is willing to let it go.
As the group nears the lagoon, talk of Brinewall's future is hushed, replaced by more stoic, ascetically inspired faces. The skies overhead have cleared and the day is promising to be a nice one. There is a slight breeze from the south which has churned the lagoon's waters. The sun's reflection off the rippling surface makes seeing anything lurking within obscured yet the waters are still enough to reveal the wake of anything big moving beneath.