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Shalelu collapses on the floor and weeps. A moment later, she whispers. "I have been with him... I have always been with him... Before I was born. Yes. Somehow. I know him from all the years he's been trapped in this prison. The centuries... the millennia. I've been here with him. He is... he forgets. War. He was a powerful warrior. He has many friends in that room. I can't feel them, but he says they're there. They say things to him, but he doesn't trust them. I am his friend. Yes. He is my best friend. He can trust me, because I want to help him. I want to free him from these shackles that torment him."
Aggah holds onto Cleo very tightly and cries "Cleo. Don't let Aggah go! Aggah don't want to be alone! Aggah feels scared, very scared! Aggah scared that Cleo leave Aggah."
"Helgarr" Says Grunyar. "This ain't Shalelu. She don't act like this, ever. She got the emotional range ova spoon most days."
"Shut up, Grunyar!" Shalelu lashes out, but goes back into whispering. "He does not eat, does not sleep. Fire does not hurt him. His claws do not rip his flesh. He cannot escape from the walls that speak to him. His mistress, the two-leg queen with the crown of hooks. She left him here in the clutches of her enemy. The two-leg king with the glaive. There were other kings too. No one came."
Aggah... Cleo soothed I won't leave you, we'll get through this and go back home, together. the little Halfling will try and calm her friend down while listening to Shalelu. I... have no idea what she is talking about... maybe we should back away? Get her out of that things range? she looks to the others.
Helgarr and Maria slam the door shut. Both Shalelu and Aggah simultaneously yell "NOOOO!!" Then there is a loud slam against the other side of the door. After that, nothing happens.
"It is time we leave friends, do you agree?" - Helgarr addresses her companions, still watching the door.
Cleo nods, arm wrapped around her goblin friend and short sword gripped in the other. She'll start backing away, Maybe when we come back... she doesn't finish because she has no idea even then if they can do anything. We can research she suggests more certain The queen with the crown of hooks, the king with the glaive, maybe it will give us an idea of what that... thing... might be.
Defeated, Shalelu and Aggah follow the rest of the group out of the Thistletop dungeons. Helgarr lifts the body of Furnok over her shoulder to take it back to Sandpoint, while also making sure Maria and Orik are well after the encounter with the spirits. On the surface, Gogmurt the druidic goblin praises everyone for driving the white haired woman out of Thistletop. He renews his promise to never attack Sandpoint, nor raid its caravans. He will teach the Thistletops the druidic ways, where they can learn how to hunt and gather. By the time everyone gets back to Sandpoint, the sun sets below the sea, an orange red. Amaiko stands at the gates, both pleased and mournful at the sight of the successful, yet battered and wounded adventurers. Tears fill her eyes as she welcomes you home. Behind her some feet away stands Sheriff Beylor Hemlock with somber eyes and a stern face. He bows deeply before seeking Father Abstalar Zantus and Naffer Vosk the mortician.
She thanks Gogmurt, satisfied with his promises, even if the others are wary. She does ask if she can come around now and again, she has a friend in the cavern below she's promised some honey and fish. She could also bring any supplies the goblins might need to keep temptation for banditry at bay, in exchange for herbs or other things the druid might gather unique to the area, maybe? If not, she's content with just being allowed safe passage.
In town, she gives hugs and a few tears to Amaiko. "If it is all the same to you all, I'd like to get the story out of me before settling. While a warm meal and a warmer bath is mouth watering, I want some of what we dealt with out as quickly as possible, and revisited never." she looks back at the others to see if they object, noticing Ali and Vandra wondering off without a word. Something broke in them down below, and it hurt the little Halfling to see them go as badly as the one they lost forever.
She'll tell the story, or fill in gaps when the others take over. Expanding on the others bravery and accomplishments, while glossing over her own, since she never sees her own being particularly spectacular.
Once rested and fed, she'll leave armor and weapons buried under her bed, and in her simple fair going dress will busy herself with helping around the inn as much as the Corwins and Amaiko will allow. And helping Aggah become accustomed to and accepted by the town.
The funeral will be hard, and she will wish to say a few words if permitted. In a newly bought dress of deep greens and light browns, and with her scarlet hair tied up in a bun, she'll stand before the collected peoples, "Furnok never stood out, never pushed his views or demanded attention. He was simply a good man. Always there, and always willing to help. Driving us forward by simply never giving up." she pauses, giving him a smile as her tears go silently unchecked down her round cheeks. "Someone we should all aspire to..." she clenches his hand with hers, one last time and whispers "I'm sorry we failed you..." then she'll stretch up on tip toes to kiss his cheek, before stepping back and away.
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Helgarr spends most of her time tending to her wounds and those of her companions amidst a couple of drunken evenings. She makes it a point of tending also to all the loot and recovered wealth from their foray , and visits Maria and Cleo multiple times a day, to check on her companions. But also Orik, to understand if he is also recovering, and what he intends to do in the future.
The young warrior walks proudly around Sandpoint, feeling her trip into adulthood is well under way. It is also undeniable she is starting to feel closer to the town itself and its inhabitants, some sort of sense of duty and protection.
In spite of the horrors they have been through, the barbarian's morale is high, and she tries her best to instill this on her friends. She cannot shake away the sense of victory - cherishing it had been a part of her blood an inheritance ever since she was born.
At Furnok's funeral, Helgarr's words say exactly that, after Cleo ghas spoken - "We faced our foes and vanquished them, laying low this threat on Sandpoint" - Helgarr speaks in a grim tone - "While we fought, a valiant brother in arms fell overwhelmed - his name was Furnok!" - she roars, lifting her companion's weapon high - the Lucerne Hammer - "And with his blood, weapon and courage he allowed us our victory, while others, broken in spirit simply turned their backs and left!" - the fiery girl adds, taking to one knee - "Thank you for offering us glory Furnok. Take your weapon into the Afterlife, and use it to carve your place in eternity" - and places the weapon inside the grave with the mighty Ranger.
Ali and Vandra hitched their horses to Ali's wagon and fled the village entirely. Riddled with shame, they headed south, towards the city of Magnimar.
Amaiko listens to Cleo's story with utmost compassion. She laughs at Gogmurt's uprising, cries at Furnok's death, and withdraws in horror of the temple of Lamashtu. Though she does not go into detail, Amaiko tells Cleo a story where she was adventuring with three other brave souls. Though they reached their destination, all three of them died horrific deaths. She has never returned to the adventuring life due to that day.
Helgarr's morale certainly affects Sandpoint the next day, as she encourages the townsfolk to celebrate Helgarr and her companions as heroes and champions.
Orik and Maria are being tended to in the Cathedral. There are a few rooms specifically dedicated to long-term healing. Father Zantus explains to Helgarr, Maria, and Orik that simple healing potions cannot undo this kind of damage. He has a bit of magic to help the healing process along, but only time can truly heal them back. Orik should be done within the next day or two, but Maria seems to be recovering much slower. At this rate it will take three or four days before she can do more than the easiest of tasks.
At least fifty people witness Furnok's burial. Many of them bring flowers to set at the foot of his grave. His tombstone reads "Here lies Furnok of Fern. A hero of Sandpoint."
Cleo beams a smile up at Helgarr after the speech. "He'd be blushing from cheek to toe hearing your words, but he deserved everyone." she'll leave her own bundle of daisies and a promise to come back with stories.
Afterward Cleo starts shedding the sorrow and pain, a little here with a good teasing from Maria, a little there from a bellowing laugh from Helgarr. Soon she's all smiles, chats, and gracious welcomes to any and all. She'll also give a good tongue lashing to anyone being racist to Aggah, who also is a hero of Sandport she'll remind the offender.
She will seek out Hannah if she hasn't seen the elven druid yet. Thinking she'd love to hear about Gogmurt and even more about the delightful crab Cleo met. "I'm planning to take a trip back in a week or two if you'd like to come along."
Three times a day Cleo will bring to Maria's sick bed a home cooked meal from the inn. Giving her all the gossip she's heard, or just filling in any silences with random nonsense. Her friend nearly died, and while it hurts Cleo to remember it, she knows it probably haunts the young woman to no end. So she prattles on hoping she'll come up with something to make it better.
But instead she may make it worse, saying Ali left...
|
Maria looks troubled. I don't blame him. I'm tempted to do the same. I didn't come all the way from Absalom to fight horrific monsters. I just wanted to tell jokes and stories, to put on plays and show people magic tricks. Cleo sees Maria fighting to hold back tears. I was sick of seeing people get hurt, so I decided to make people happy instead. And that's what I'm going to do. I'm going to make a wagon, or maybe pay for it. Something with a stage I think. Maria grows silent.
Concentrating on Maria's thoughts for the future instead of the pains of the past, Oh that sounds good. Plenty of townsfolk are thankful for what you did for them, so plenty of hands to help. I can start asking around while you recover, and I'll come by with some paper and charcoal so you can plan. She'll give the young woman a tight hug We're still here, never worry about that.
Hannah is rather excited to meet the ginormous crab, but she hesitates slightly at the mention of Gogmurt and his tribe. "Not all druids agree with one another, and I can't say that I'm fond of what this Gogmurt is doing. Personally, I think the natural world should be tended to and nurtured, but ultimately to do as Gozreh wishes. Gogmurt however is twisting nature to his own wishes by changing the trees to nettles and weaving them into roofs and barricades. It isn't all that different from the constructions of humankind."
I can see that. In a way that puts him closer to Erastil. He tells us to respect nature, but allows for home and hearth, natural or constructed. Either way, I am happy Gogmurt is choosing to lead his tribe down a path that doesn't including killing travelers. If you still wish to come, we can skip the theological discussion and just go meet the crab.
Helgarr keeps herself busy with patrolling Sandpoint (for which she meets frequently with Sheriff Hemlock), offering her services at Savah's workshop, and making sure both Maria and Orik are on the mend.
Between all this, she tries to find the time to sort out their findings, and split them as best as possible.
--------
"How do you feel my friend? Cleo tells me you have a new project regarding a wagon and a stage, so you can present your abilities?" - the barbarian inquires of his friend - "I believe that to be a most excellent idea - I will assist as I can" - she smiles - "But now tell me. Are you well? We have faced many a horrible thing recently"
--------
"It is good to see you on the mend Orik" - the barbarian stands arms crossed, staring hard at the man - "I will not avoid the topic, as it is also a reason why I came here besides your health - what are your plans in Sandpoint for the future? Be honest, and you will be treated with respect" - she inquires without skipping a beat.
--------
"You believe it safe to simply return to that place unaccompanied Cleo?" - the young barbarian woman sounds concerned - "I shall accompany you if you return" - she adds, considering the conversation resolved.
--------
If Erastil wills it, I'll be fine. Cleo gives him a wry smile, but then adds Hannah is coming with me as well, but you are welcome as always. patting the big lady's arm. I'll let you know once I have a firm time.
Cleo will work at getting things sold and identified as well. Hoping to be able to present Maria with start up proceeds for her entertainment enterprise.
2 magical starknives
1 cursed set of Studded Leather Armor that radiates a black aura
Vial of strange liquid
2 vials of clear liquid
A seven-pointed star medallion with a snapped cord
Seven shards of a golden sphere
A floating palantir (uh, orb)
A bunch of wizard stuff that has been claimed by Aggah
a wand (in Cleo's list of unclaimed gear)
A potion with brown liquid(in Cleo's list of unclaimed gear)
If Erastil wills it, I'll be fine. Cleo gives him a wry smile, but then adds Hannah is coming with me as well, but you are welcome as always. patting the big lady's arm. I'll let you know once I have a firm time.
"We have a deal" - Helgarr nods.
Maria looks at Helgar wearily. I've been better, and I'll miss Ali and Vandra, but maybe someday they'll come back.
"I have my doubts Maria, but it is possible of course" - the barbarian smiles - "I can't say I understand exactly what got them to leave, it could be a million reasons. But we need to move past it"
Downtime will last for 6 days. Maria will be mostly healthy by the end of day 3. Once day 6 is done, I will be starting the next adventure.
Helgarr knows that she can take items that have not been identified to a corresponding shop to be identified and/or appraised. There are also several loremasters in town that might be able to identify strange curiosities.
Aggah reluctantly lets Helgarr take the cloak and book. The wand is already with Cleo.
On the second day, one of Grunyar's wolves races over to Helgarr and barks loudly. She leads Helgarr just outside of the village limits where Helgarr sees Grunyar and the other wolf pinning down Shalelu.
"Deal" Hannah says as she shakes Cleo's hand.
Orik slowly sits up and cracks his neck. "Uhm I'm thinking I'll relax around here for awhile, mmm maybe find a job around here."
He pauses for a moment.
"The waves sound nice, and the folks seem nice too."
-2 magical starknives
Starknives are favored weapons of Desnan worshippers. These starknives in particular are enchanted with the ability to cast Light.
-1 cursed set of Studded Leather Armor that radiates a black aura
This set of +1 Studded Leather Armor resizes itself to fit the wearer. It is also capable of masking the wearer in a small cloud of pitch black darkness, but the wearer is completely blind while the cloud is activated.
-Vial of strange liquid
This vial does not contain anything magical
-2 vials of clear liquid
These vials do not contain anything magical
-A seven-pointed star medallion with a snapped cord
This is incredibly magical
-Seven shards of a golden sphere
This sphere acts like an Ioun stone by floating around the wearer's head. Only one shard is glowing, but provides a +1 enhancement bonus to will saves.
-A floating palantir (uh, orb)
This orb requires a power source to function, but it creates various spell effects when the appropriate command is given.
-A bunch of wizard stuff that has been claimed by Aggah
A scroll for each spell (comprehend languages, minor image, see invisibility, sleep, whispering wind), a cloak of resistance +1, and a wizard's spellbook (23 spells total)
-a wand (in Cleo's list of unclaimed gear)
A wand of magic missile (30 charges)
-A potion with brown liquid(in Cleo's list of unclaimed gear)
A potion of Grease (do not consume)
I know. I just, Maria begins to blush. I, kinda liked Ali.
"I know you did" - the barbarian nods - "Understand you will need time to assimilate this. You are young" - Helgarr laughs honestly - "Actually, I am young too. But trust me, give yourself a few days to mend, and you will see things differently" - and puts her strong hand on Maria's - "You can count on me"
++++++
"The people are indeed nice Orik" - the girl still wears a grim look - "And even though Sandpoint is not my birthplace, I am beginning to cherish it" - she adds - "You have a second chance here, to follow a path different than the one you chose before. Not many have such luck. Make the best of it" - and stares hard at him - "I and the others will be here if ever you need us"
++++++
Helgarr dashes toward Grunyar and the wolf pinning Shalelu, hand on her weapon but not drawing it yet - "What is going on?!"
Orik gets out of bed and puts his tunic on. He looks Helgarr up and down, then says "D'you think you could show me some places around here that might hire me?"
Shalelu gives in and lies there helplessly. Grunyar sits on top of her to keep her from moving. "She was dashin back to Thistletop, Helgarr. Look in 'er bag, I bet a score o' gold she's got the key to that weird door."
The seven-pointed star key is found in her bag. Helgarr could of sworn that she kept it safe in her room. Shalelu hides her face with her hands, but Helgarr can hear the sounds of the elf's sobbing.
"Helgarr, I'm thinking Shalelu ain't right in the 'ead. I think we should taker 'er and that goblin to the priestman."
Helgarr retrieves the seven pointed star key, and stores it safely in her pack - "Shalelu what is going on with you? Come with us please" - she adds, grabbing her hand - "You are right Grunyar, she is not well, but she will be"
"I might" - she nods - "What can you do?"
Father Zantus listens to Helgarr's story while Grunyar fetches the others. After a few spells, father Zantus determines that Shalelu is under a long-term enchantment spell. The spell makes her believe that this Malfeshnekor is the most important person in her entire life. He also says that elves are typically quite resilient against these kinds of spells. He checks over Aggah as well but does not find any magic affecting her, not even curses.
He tells Helgarr and the others that he has spells that can temporarily dispel the enchantment, but only for a few minutes. Unfortunately, he is not powerful enough to remove the spell in its entirety. He suggests a few options.
1. Take Shalelu to Magnimar to see a more powerful priest
2. Lock Shalelu up until the spell passes (a few weeks to a month)
3. (whispers) Kill the Malfeshnekor creature. Do not tell Shalelu, do not take Aggah.
Orik scratches his head as he tries to think. "I can uhm, well I'm strong. Everyone tells me that."
Cleo will fret to no end over Shalelu's condition. Once out of the elf's earshot she'll resolutely say She is suffering because we couldn't confront that evil... we have to go back. There is no telling if the spell will truly wear off, so killing that... thing is the only way. her voice is firm and angry, the anger being pointed at herself since she is the one who pushed for us to leave. Even if fighting that thing might have lead to their deaths.
I saw a friend of mine from home in town. she adds. Once we are ready, Maria being better and we are healed, I'll ask him if he wants to help out.
Thanks Helgar. Maria says as her friend steps away.
"No need to thank me Maria - we are Quah" - the young barbarian replies.
Cleo will fret to no end over Shalelu's condition. Once out of the elf's earshot she'll resolutely say She is suffering because we couldn't confront that evil... we have to go back. There is no telling if the spell will truly wear off, so killing that... thing is the only way. her voice is firm and angry, the anger being pointed at herself since she is the one who pushed for us to leave. Even if fighting that thing might have lead to their deaths.
I saw a friend of mine from home in town. she adds. Once we are ready, Maria being better and we are healed, I'll ask him if he wants to help out.
"Very well - it will be so. We shall hunt it down" - Helgarr nods - "Cleo, can I task you with finding out as much as you can about this creature? I will do my best to ask around town also" - she adds - "And yes, do invite your friend for an ale, so we can all speak"
"In the meantime, should we keep Shalelu restrained?" - Helgarr 'almost' hesitates at the words.
"Very well" - she nods - "Follow me. We'll start at the Sheriff's office - I'm sure he'll value a strong arm"
Helgarr organizes their findings as best as possible in her bedroom, then sets herself to the task, gathering weapons and armor first, and heading straight to Savah’s Armory, greeting the owner as soon as she arrives - "Well met Savah, I have been eager to see you again, and learn more from you" - she smiles - "But before that... I come with surprises and business"
"Always lookin to pick up some new stuff. Heard y'all made like bandits in a dragon's den."
+1 Returning Tiny dagger 2,400gp (reduced price due to being a rare market)
+1 smoking red longsword of combustion 1,390gp
2 Starknives enchanted with the Light cantrip 615gp each
A masterwork sling, sized small 180gp
1 MW Ranseur 185gp
3 daggers 3.5gp
4 dogslicers, sized small 3.5gp each
3 kukris 5gp each
2 heavy crossbows 30gp each
1 masterwork heavy crossbow 210gp
Small short sword +1 1,385gp
Falchion 45gp
1 heavy wooden shield 4.2gp
1 cursed set of Studded Leather Armor that can cast darkness 352gp (reduced price for cursed)
2 sets of hide armor (dog hide), small 0gp (unwilling to buy due to dog hide and terrible smell)
Cleo agrees with Helgarr that information is greatly needed. The little person hefts the large old books and with the help of Aggah makes her way to the Curious Goblin. "No eating anything unless he offers, please. Save what we brought." she asks Aggah before entering, secretly fretting about what she is going to do with Aggah when they go after the evil thing under Thistletop. The advise Fathen Zantus gave about not bringing her makes sense, but the town is very anti goblin at the best of times, and these have not been the best of times.
"Excuse me?" the ginger halfling calls as she sticks her head into the shop. If Mr. Haladin is there, she'll greet him, doing all the proper "how you do"'s and presenting him with tea and biscuits she made at the inn. "For your trouble if you are willing to help, or at least listen. I think it is good for the town which is good for us all in the end."
Realizing she should tell him what she's needing before asking if he'll help, she'll get to serving the tasty nibbles, while describing all they saw, heard, and felt down in the chamber. "Malfeshnekor is what it is called, serving a two legged queen which is an odd turn of phrase since most of us are two legged, unless Malfeshnekor himself isn't..." she nibbles on a cookie, then pushes on through the rest, including their enchanted elven friend.
"If there is anything you know or if there is anything we could find out in these books, we all would be very grateful." she implores the white haired wizard.
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The month-long trip into Sandpoint with the caravan had been uncharacteristically DULL. Not one bandit attack or even a sighting of goblins. The tedium was made worse by having to endure Leroy Bigglesmirths pomposity throughout the trip. He had little to no respect for anyone or anything except GOLD. And wow how he loved to talk about how he was going to be even more successful than his Daddy...this is his first damn caravan run. He thinks it's all peaches and cream. No danger on the open road.
Leroy is a big FAT man. Closer to 300lbs than to 200. And he'd practically LAUGHED when the diminutive Wabbit signed up for the caravan run. Wabbit later found out that he was hired primarily as a joke between Leroy and the caravan guard captain.
With no action and nothing but snide remarks about how "little" his help had been worth....Wabbit had had enough and decided that it was time to spend some time catching up with old acquaintances in Sandpoint. it's been quite awhile since I've been here. Wonder how the Sheriff's doin
And then the FINAL insult "you didn't do nuthin but eat my food on this trip. I should charge you! upon asking to get paid by the fat merchant. "Here take your wages...it's twice what you're worth." as he gave HALF what was agreed upon.
Now Wabbit is fun and easygoing and EVERYBODY likes him....but this Fat Merchant....Some people are just bad apples.
But rather than make a fuss...the pay really wasn't that important. but it's the principle..
The next day as the caravan begins it's journey to the next town and hits that pothole on the edge of town that STILL hasn't been prepared, a couple of beehives that Wabbit had lulled to sleep with drowsy-smoke and then placed in the wagons get jarred to life and then upon waking become alarmed and enraged by the faintest scent of yellowjacket wasp which has been strategically placed on the Bigglesmiths favorite red coat, the Guard Captains jacket and the hindquarters of the horses.
Wabbit moves from the shadows into the middle of the street to get the best vantage possible and waves goodbye to the caravan.
Needless to say but the sight is EXTREMELY satisfying to Wabbit as the caravan careens down the road spilling items that had become mysteriously less secured than usual accompanied by shouts of bewilderment and frustration. no ones gettin hurt. But maybe that'll take him down a peg or two. Should take the better part of the day to get that mess packed back up again...wonder how long it'll take him to find it thinking of the tiny wooden rabbit that he had carved and placed into the lining of Bigglesmirth's coat (Wabbit's calling card)
off to see the Sheriff. Eager to see how things have been since he was last here
Two big books and a goblin in toe along the dusty streets of Sandport, Cleo almost gets crushed by a run away horse carrying a very fat merchant who screams worse than a baby goblin. I wonder what that... Cleo musses before noticing the small form leaving the shadows.
"Oh no..." she groans. Remembering the time a whole colony of fire ants ended up into stuffy old town foreman undergarment drawer, which he didn't notice til....
Or the time the prissy little Marge Fisher ended up 'accidentally' brushing her teeth with fungus from her father's toes.
The young Cleo Gingerberry giggled her arse off on both occasions, but as the apprentice healer, she was the one that had to soothe their pains, and listen to their incessant whining!
Still nice to see a familiar face. "Wabbit!" she'll call, hurrying her little legs after him.
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The house was dark and the burning incense couldn’t disguise other, stranger smells.
Wrapped in her cloak Brelin looked again at the cards displayed on her table
“Owl flying with the Mountain man” she mumbled to herself “The Eclipse sheds no light and the Cyclone roams the land”
“It’s the same result as before.” – she thought as she got up and looked out the window to the sunrise – “The spirits have spoken and my way is clear”
She moved around the house and got her traveling gear. She had interpreted the message well, she believed. Those adventurers won’t succeed without her and if that happens, woe to this land.
With her cards safely stored in her pack, she got out and placed a “Closed” sign on the door. No palm readings for a while.
I wonder if the sheriff is up already?