A grim face came over Aibek as they mulled over the reading. "So, someone sent them to the Tower...months ago...and...possibly something from there caused all this. That's...more than a little concerning. Not even sure if there is a safe way to get samples to show someone more knowledgeable on...infecting plant-parasites...before considering accidental or intentional infection on whoever sent them...would Nexus..."
Ideas and concerns spiraled through the witchwolf, each more burning than the last, with frustratingly little to anchor any of them to they sparked wildly. Eventually, with anxious eyes, Aibek quietly said, "Clearing this place, quickly, does seem the first step..." glancing from Selena to the crates but not yet moving, rooted down under their thoughts, "And a way to...get rid of them while causing minimal boat damage in case more information can still be found...if this is already in the city, more information would be better..."
Aibek looked around for anything of interest or to answer their questions, mind turning faster for ideas while trying to still the rising panic behind their blank face...
It was likely that this particular strain was somewhere in the druid's tower, but unable to spread. It was clear that without a food source, light and water that it failed to develop. While light was plentiful, there was a distinct lack of water in most of Khalharum, and food was difficult at beast to locate despite the small eco-system. Most likely, the creatures within the tower experienced periodic outbreaks.
Which would certainly make finding the source a priority...
"One more for the to do list, I suppose," Mihara sighs after the others explain. "So, how do we proceed? Is there any hope of curing those in the hold? Though we'd best take care of the journal's author, first of all."
"Pillage, then burn." Azri said firmly. Or, more elaborately... look around before you consigned everything to oblivion.
The chests are non-magical, and indeed, hold nothing especially interesting...unless large sums of money hold an interest. There was, perhaps, 5000 gp in gold and platinum coins, but far more in silver and copper currency. It was difficult to tell, exactly, how much there likely was without sitting and counting, but it was several chests worth. A rough guess would put it around 10,000gp.
"Any other options would be impractical. How could we possibly hope to restitute this to its former owners? Khalharum will have chances to make charitable donations in the future. For now, we need it."
"I prefer to think of it as salvaging something that's literally right next to our city." Azri answered mildly. It was important to do things properly, after all. "There's certainly no point in letting it go to waste... and if anybody has a rightful claim, they can come talk to us and we can work something out."
Aibek's showed little interest though their mind kept turning as they listened to others before musing aloud, "The infection seems to need...livingish to thrive and spread so the money is unlikely to be infectious though plants, seeds?, a few minutes may be needed to check before figuring out how to transfer it safely to the city and where to securely store such funds for the city...the arsenal vault might be good...though Nexus may know of a better place once the Towers are better cleared. Would it be better to have Nigrum or someone fly it there directly and then meet together at the port or somewhere rather than try to carry it back to the ship and unload and then take it somewhere safe?"
Aibek glanced to the others for their thoughts...
"I don't think the coins are infected, like Aibek said, but some of the spores or something may be on them." Selena crosses her arms "I think I could carry some of that by myself, but going back and forth several times doesn't sound very practical. Oh, and I'm all for using the money: we need the cash, and it's not like tossing it into the sea or something will do anyone any good."
"As far as making sure the money is clean goes, spores and plants burn. Coins do not. We could simply expose the coins to a flame for a short amount of time. It would probably be simplest to bring the money back with us when we return to Khalharum. The six of us, plus Alerdene, should be able to carry and guard all of this without issue."
Aibek nods along with what the others said, glancing between them and then to Azri, "Good point Mihara, fire would likely be faster, safer, and more effective than a manual search. I'm thinking, between Khaul's agents and others possibly watching, concealment until the arsenal vault is reached would also be important... Aibek tended to carry money in various amounts in many pouches and containers about their person and bags. Money for the city would need even greater security to the witchwolf's mind, especially with so many enemies -- likely many still unknown to them.
After landing and taking a moment to lament the lost chance for combat he speaks.
"The dead need nothing, if they object they can do so directly. Personally I care not for the travels of coins. They are useful to us and unclaimed, we should use them."
He unslings a small pack and opens it.
"They should fit in this or at least most of it."
Considering Aibek's words he speaks his thoughts.
"We should consider rebuilding at least one fortified location. We could claim all the ruins but in their state it is very much pointless undefended as they are. We need warriors as well."
Aibek listened to Nigrum and gave a small nod as they thought over it, "I can see that being a priority. So much of what has been faced has already been within the city... this needs to finish being secured, more information would be needed to prioritize it better - if only to know where such a fortification would be best placed or if there are other holes that need plugged up first. Some time to gather and write it all out may be ideal after this if the time can be spared..."
"Harbor walls are good." Azri mused. "Fort up against an attack from any direction, and going to be useful later on." She wnated her school, of course, but that was for later. Heh heh heh.
"Yeah, the more stone there's between us and Okeno, the better. We don't want it to end up like one week ago."
Mihara gives a faint yawn and puts the handful of gold coins she'd been inspected back in their chest with a dissonant chord of metallic tinkles. Her three tails give an anticipatory twitch as she tentatively begins to hover slowly towards the door.
"There'll be time to discuss all of this later. We have a ship to finish sorting out. Shall we proceed?"
Aibek nods to Mihara before glancing to the others. " That just leaves deciding what to with this boat...and the others...before heading back."
Looking to Azri and Ayreth, Aibek asks, "Any precautions that need to be taken while ensuring no spores or seeds or anything else comes along before it's packed up and secured for a trip to the arsenal vault?" thinking that fire in a boat while quick would likely need precautions though likely the two with most experience in magic would likely have those well in hand - it still made the witchwolf slightly nervous which is why they asked.
Nigrum collects his pack.
"Burn it, the water will keep it from being any trouble. I would say start from the top, the heat will cause a updraft if you start from below. The spores will take wind in that case instead of being burned."
He does not explain how he knows all that.
Mihara pauses for a moment, and giggles before reciting.
"I have heard of shady merchants cooking the books before, but I do not believe this is what the expression was meant to convey."
"What matters is that this place stops being a problem." Azri answered primly. It sounded like they had a plan of action now, and all that was left was putting that into action. "Using magic to clean everything should be good enough."
Once the hulk was aight, it didn't take too long for the holed ship to slip from the reef and sink the blackened remains deep into the saltwater. Any surviving spores of the plant would be very unl;ikely to survive the salt water content, even if they managed to survive the ship burning.
Returning to the city is a simple matter, but surprisingly there is another vessel in the harbour and tied to the pier. The heavy vessel is twice the length of Whitebeard's vessel, but the dark colour of the wood suggests that the ship is made of Darkwood - a rare an unusual material, and one that must have made the ship extortionately expensive. A pair of decks with hatches for gun reveal she is packing an impressive arsenal. And perhaps most interestingly from your point of view, is the ship is flying the colour of the Halfblood.
Reaching the dock, you disembark and see a familiar figure standing on the side. Grimrod Guthook, leaning on a waraxe bigger than some members on your group, glowers in your direction and waves you to come over to where he an Elie are speaking. Of course, anything less than being bellowed at with a booze-soaked belch was a mark of respect for the monstrous Berserker.
"Well done on claimin' this pile of desert rocks and camel crap," he muttered, glancing around. "Heard it was a tale. Got some decent booze aboard the tub, so we'll drink and you can tell me about it. Two things. Borin' crap first. Since you've achieved the goal of takin' the place, Zhen's will says you'll be getting the resources to kick start builin' it back up. Supplies, and the people to use 'em, although it'll be up to yu lot to see if you can keep 'em in the middle of nowhere."
The old Orc's face twisted into a mask of anger, scars pulled into an alarming cross-stitch of rage and bile. "Second? Some bastard stole into the crypt of Zhen. Went to tend to it and lo and behold, slab's broken, his gear gone. Sarcophagus smashed and he, himself..." A growl, and a blink to remove a single tear. "Someone stole 'em. The bastards took Zhen."
End of Part One
In the weeks that followed, work crews escorted by the newly operational Tower Guards and the Mercenaries brought by Grimrod spent time reclaiming the towers. It was the only way to make essential repairs to the devastated Nexus and keep the city alive.
Although heavily damaged, some areas of the tower are still habitable and usable. The main exception was the Druids tower, which sealed to prevent infection. Since the majority of the Towers monsters lived or hunted there, it would take either a dedicated effort or the extended use of the Tower Guard to cleanse.
During this period various items were found, including the level one vaults. All progress beyond the second basement is blocked by sealed doors even Nexus has no idea how to open. The vaults themselves, however, also contain several prizes - including one of the missing Symbols.
The Diadem of Yunet
They also located;
112 pp
2495 gp
11350 sp
20 Ancient Coins
Effortless Lace
Scholar's Ring
+1 Glamered Mithral Breastplate
Dragon Hide
Alchemical Materials
Wand of Cure Moderate Wounds
Potion of Cure Serious Wounds (3)
Potion of Flight
Scroll of Protection from Evil
Potion of Rage (2)
Potion of Heroism
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
She'd seen the golden opportunity the instant it came: Word of a great ship from Tian Xia dropping anchor in Katapesh, set to make the return trip in a week's time.
Mihara, of course, couldn't turn away that chance. She'd not expected, or planned, to remain in Katapesh for an extended stay. A visit home would allow her to get her affairs in order, and truly settle in Khalharum, not as a visitor, but as a resident lady.
Her new diadem, of course, confirmed that.
She'd said her apologies and goodbyes, hoping to make up for three months' absence by returning with the support of the Moon's Whisper. Khalharum represented, for her family, an opportunity to expand their trade and holdings, and she was certain Hakeru would see it the same way.
That said, it was not Mihara of the Yao Clan who approached the Tianese merchants in the port of Katapesh.
Kitsune, Mihara knew all too well, had a bit of a reputation as tricksters. Her three tails, marking her as a higher rank of her vulpine kin, would do her no favor either.
Instead, the woman who offered the sailors a round sum of gold for safe transport was Kala Vestos, a tan-skinned half-elven Katapeshi native. Kala sought to visit an old friend who dwelled on a small island some miles removed from the ports of Goka.
Thusly began her trip back to the east, so that she may truly be prepared for the adventures to come.
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
On the ship, Kala mostly kept to herself. though she did join the crew at mealtimes. Mainly, she kept to the cabin lent to her by the captain, who had passed on her word that she was not to be disturbed.
On a ship this large, faces came and went, and remembering each of one's fellow workers was an unlikely task at best.
With this, few noticed that the sailors working on deck or enjoying their assigned break times were numbering one more than expected.
It was somewhat of a game the ship's unusual guest had taken on to keep herself amused during the long trip. It was an interesting experience seeing how far she could push her disguises before whispers began going around.
She was only somewhat concerned about getting caught. Worst case scenario, she'd confess to the subterfuge and offer double her original payment as a show of good faith.
Mihara lounged on her cot, quill and scroll in hand, pondering her next verse, when shouts came from the deck.
"We're being boarded! To arms!" the quartermaster shouted.
Kala Vestos rushed out, bow in hand. She was no combat expert, but she had a vested interest in keeping this ship sailing. She'd battle alongside her ferriers, and no amount of convincing would do otherwise. The half elf leapt onto a barrel and surveyed the frey. An arrow soared through the air, knocking one of the pirates' club out of his hands before he could strike at the captain from behind.
Hawke Sarro tumbled out from behind a barrel, twin scimitars at the ready. As a sailor hired in Katapesh to bring the ship safely to Tian, it was his duty to join the combat. He moved through the chaos of battle like a storm of blades, disarming and disemboweling as he went, expertly parrying blows. Eyes turned to watch, equal parts impressed and frightened. Yet, in the chaos, the brawl lost track of the lithe man, and he vanished through thin air.
Sirran Flamehart, a young swabbie, was cornered by a frighteningly large half-orc. She slowly backed away towards the edge of the ship as the brute, knife in hand, crept towards her.
Garrod Greytooth retreated to his captain's side. He had not just been knocked out with a sap and thrown off the ship. He was better than that. "I got your back, captain!" The half-orc shouted over the din of combat, standing back to back with his superior, parrying a sailor's attack with great ease before tripping the man and shoving him away.
This is too easy.
A pained scream, resonated through the crowd, and all turned just in time to see Captain Reaver collapse onto the deck with a resounding 'thump', a dagger sticking out of his upper spine. His assailant, curiously, was nowhere to be found.
Yao Mihara closed the cabin door behind herself and listened with glee as the sailors cheered and the pirates retreated. These bandits had nothing on what she'd faced in Khalharum.
The calm night breeze filled the sails of the ship. With the pirate incident behind them, it was smooth sailing.
Some hours before, Mihara had been lulled to sleep by the gentle murmurs of the waves. Only one more week, and she would be home. She smiled in her sleep.
Hopefully, Khalharum would be able to take care of itself until her return.
It was about time she took a look at the diadem. She'd been meaning to look at it once the trip was well underway, but she'd been far too busy mingling with the sailors.
She'd been meaning to look at it during the second week, but the captain was such a charming man, and she'd gotten lost in her little theater with the crew.
She'd been meaning to look at it during the third week, but then poetry came upon her and she filled a whole journal.
Now, though, she was going to look at it. Her Symbol. It had taken a while, but fate had granted her one after all.
Mihara eyed the jewlery curiously. It was a simple thing, not much of what one would expect from a ruler's mark. A simple band of gold inlaid with a modest ruby. Oh well, if it was anything like the others, it would change as she put it on, into something more... personalized.
And it did.
As she set it upon her head, carefully nestled between her ears, it shifted. The once simple gold band sprouted into a band of golden flowers. The ruby moved along the length and split in two, blooming into a spectacle all its own.
Good morning, Mistress!
A voice echoed through her mind. It wasn't entirely unfamilliar. It reminded her of Kiromu, her dearest little brother, and yet, it was different. Mystical, perhaps.
Mihara cocked an eyebrow in confusion. Had her diadem just spoken to her?
One could say that. Please forgive my intrusion.
Something wiggled at the corner of her eye, and she became aware of the small vulpine figure standing on her bed.
"Oh! And who might you be?"
"That is for me to decide, Mistress. When you set the Diadem upon your head, I was called to you."
Mihara eyed the fox for a moment, or as it would be, the vixen.
She was dark-pelted, much like Mihara herself; her tail and ears were white-tipped, and the fur around her right eye was marked white in the shape of a flower, matching the diadem.
"Hm... I shall name you... Honoka."
The Eidolon bowed. "Then it is a pleasure to meet you, Mistress Mihara. I was tasked by the Diadem's creator to assist its wearer as I can. With each bearer, I am incarnated anew."
Honoka eyed her own form, getting familliar with her new shape, and looked pleased with herself.
Mihara took off the diadem and eyed it for a moment. This was something she could see herself wearing with pride and confidence.
A glimmer of light shone through the golden stripes of her tails.
Hakeru had been right, it seemed. The Stripes had come to her as a sign not of inheritance, but of new foundings.
After the dream with their sibling...and Ayreth...and the morning with Azerna, Aibek spent the rest of the morning writing letters and debating with themself on clothes. Because nothing seemed simple right now to the shadow archon.
Delivering one letter to Azri's door, Aibek spent their usual time in the washroom before heading out in their usual attire. It seemed the simplest even with all its complications. First stop was Kara and Dosa's.
List and letters in hand, Aibek approached the halfling twins with a polite nod and smile, "I have...a few things I'm hoping you can help with. First, a few more letters... one for Zhen Halfblood's estate, one for the Vakana lands, and one...that I need to discuss with you, it's probably unusual. I am trying to get a message to some people on the Shadow Plane. I...know how difficult that is."
The Halfling twins turned as one, which was always a little bit disconcerting. ”Not a problem!” Dosa said with a cheerful smile. ”There’s a boat heading to Katapesh in two or so days, and we can have it delivered from there.”
Aibek nodded, slightly unsure, ”You have messengers that can get to all these places, including this part of the Plane of Shadows, safely?”
”Well,” Kara replied thoughtfully, ”The ones on this plane...they usually stick to the highways and main roads, which are fairly safe, and travel with trade convoys and caravans and such. Sometimes it gets sent along with those convoys to another courier. It’s why some mail takes a while to actually get anywhere. The one to the shadow plane, though might take quite a while but there are some trade convoys that go that way though I hear they have to go the long way around these days...a bit tricky but certainly safely possible. It’ll probably involve a wizard. So, can we get you anything else?”
Aibek raised their eyebrows in surprise for a moment before continuing from their list, "Yes, I need to buy a few things, just basics really: Bandage rolls, paper, charcoal sticks, new sewing supplies to repair some clothes... I'm also, in future, considering importing some plants and would greatly appreciate if you could keep an eye and ear out for shadow plane materials. I have...some armour that needs repairing and a few other things I need them for." Aibek requests, shifting as they glanced down at their list, "I would also like to know if you have any needs...or concerns in the town. I am thinking of...of making a space or something for meals and discussion once the other...councilors have returned, maybe a merchants and/or general town...thing would interest you...I would like to know how I can help and be able to discuss and prioritize and hire help for some things like repairs or cataloging some of the plants and stuff we've found in the Towers or information to help the town...like making a more up-to-date map of the area..." Aibek said, ending in a chuckle, "Sorry, I seem to be babbling now, I'm still trying to figure all these things out. I'd appreciate your help..." Aibek said.
”Not a problem,” both twins said at the same time. ”No one who choose to live in a sun-baked city beset by raiders and in the shadow of a giant, ruined, monster-infested fortress tower is entirely normal,” Kara added after a moment, ”And a lot of the trappers and hunters that go into the desert either don’t talk or don’t stop.”
”No middle ground,” her brother agreed.
Aibek nodded, relaxing as they continued talking to the twin halflings while paying and packing away the supplies. With a small bow, Aibek thanked them for their time before leaving the shop with their paper of notes in hand.
Aibek left, glancing over their new list, as they looked for the next shop, Pelar’s smithy. Perhaps not surprisingly the side of the shop are open, the huge anvil and furnace positioned to catch as much wind off the sea and waves as possible. Still, an almost physical barrier of heat surrounds the building. Aibek hadn’t spoken with them yet as they had few things that required a smithy.
”Hello!” Aibek politely called as they moved closer to the anvil. They did their best to ignore the thick wave of heat. ”I wanted to introduce myself, I’m Aibek, I’m one of the...councilors that’s been staying at Azerna’s inn and working on clearing out the Towers and things. I just finished talking to Kara and Dosa about how I’m trying to find out about people’s needs and concerns. Also...I’m looking for some shadow plane materials, some of which I need to repair some armour...”
The dwarf smith glanced up,over the forge, bushy eyebrows furring together as he listened. ”Och, you’re one of the new folk in yon tower, aye? See you in the Dryad. Azerna speaks well of ye, so you’re welcome here. For ye armour, aye, I can help. Dinnae know what materials you’ll need - Umbrite and Darkleaf, from the sound of it - but I can work with most metals and all leathers. Nae spellcasting though. I can find them, and help ye with repairs as ye will.”
Laying down the massive hammer, he considered. ”For concerns, ye need to find something for your freemen to be doing. Idle hands are Devil’s tools. ‘Course, they need rest, healing and safety - I ken that - but in a few weeks they’ll tire of such, and be looking for tasks. I’d have some ready, or they’ll find something to do themselves.”
Aibek tried to follow what the dwarf smith was talking about. They got enough to blush about Azerna’s comment, to nod and mark down things about what Pelar could help with, and tilt their head in concern about ‘freemen’. The witchwolf took a few considering moments to write a few things down before commenting.
”Many of those brought with us have been working on the ships and housing. I’m hoping with the creation of a community meeting space, a place to put up needs, tasks, and offers such as yours from the local community with help more to find things to do to help.” Aibek said.
The bulky Dwarf nodded. ”Oh, aye, many have, and fine work they do. But there’s only so many tasks be had. I’ll be happy to employ them as has skill with metal, but some are nae suited to the forge nor the plumb line. Some have been maimed, some shall never recover from what yon boat monsters did to them.” The Dwarf grimaced at the mention of the slavers. ”The meeting hall is a fine idea, though, one I shall merrily donate some time to see built. But if I may be so bold, we’ll want industries beyond building for them as can’t. Scribe work is a temple tradition, but mayhap that could be done, or other things.”
Aibek smiled slightly as they began to relax more, ”Good ideas, with the library in the Tower now cleared scribe work and similar might be useful for some. Thank you very much for your time.” Aibek gave a polite bow before moving out of the forge, writing down a few more notes as they went.
The next shop Aibek spotted was Quera’s, another person Aibek had yet to see much in their time here. Quera’s store is a cramped, full of oddities and curios from around the world. Dark and shaded, the air is pleasantly cool after the heat of outdoors. Following the short maze of shelves and books leads to a counter, with a colourfully dressed young woman behind it. She glances over with a smile, mismatched blue and brown eyes glinting in a thin stream of light from a skylight. ”Yes?” she asks in musical tones.
Aibek enjoyed the mild chill and being in the heat of the forge and the shade soothed the shadow archon’s nerves. They turned at the sound of a voice, pausing for a few moments in thought before responding with a small smile. ”Hello, I wanted to introduce myself. Most call me Aibek, I’m staying at Azerna’s Thirsty Dryad with the other...councilors - who have been clearing out the Towers and things. I was just talking with Kara and Dosa, and Pelar, about how I’m trying to find out people’s needs and concerns. I also have a few items I’m keeping an eye out for, mainly things related to the shadow planes...and um… Aibek paused, glancing around, ”plants and such. You have so many interesting looking items and books. I’m going to need to remember to bring Ayreth in here. And Azri and the others as well. With what’s been happening, they haven’t had much time for shopping...” Aibek wrote down a few notes…
The young woman smiled brightly. ”Oh, thank you. My store is a little less traditional than the twins. More...esoteric? There are a lot of interesting things in a city like this, and buying and selling them can be quite rewarding. As for items from the Shadow Planes, let’s see…” Moving from behind the counter, she glides through the shelves. ”Shadow Piercings, some of those are nasty. More demonic than the Shadow Planes, although I suppose the Zon Kuthon thing is where they come from.” Moving along, she tapped another shelf. ”Shadow Fletching is an interesting item. It can make a foe vulnerable, but doesn’t work on those who can see in darkness.” Touching a shawl, she murmured, ”The Shawl of Shadowy Disguise. Prevents people from recognising you.” Glancing over her shoulder, she asks, ”Anything catch your eye?”
Aibek almost flinched at the name Zon-Kuthon, but quickly distracts themselves with the other interesting items Quera is showing. ”The shawl looks interesting, I’m almost sure I’ve heard of that one before though not seen one in person. Actually, you’ve just reminded me, I have a large bag of silver wool I got when the others and I were at Aroden’s temple up on the northeast temple. Maybe one of your other customers would find more use for it than I have.” Aibek smiled warmly as they jotted the thought down. “As I was saying before, I’ve been talking to the other shop owners about their concerns and discussing my idea of a community meeting space for discussing local needs, a place to post tasks to help each other and maybe having meals and such together. Hopefully somewhere relaxing and cool like your place here, it’s such a relief after being by Pelar’s forge...much more like what I’m used to at least... Aibek glanced around, internally willing themself to stop babbling.
Laughing, Quera replied, ”My, but Pelar’s does get a little warm, doesn’t it? You’d be surprised how popular he gets when the sun goes down and the chill kicks in, though. As for concerns...none myself, really. More trade will be good for my business. Maybe I can start getting more items from other places. So long as policing is kept up to match, of course.” She made a face. ”While I do have certain protections on my shops and goods, we don’t really have much in the way of thieves. Raids are more of a concern. But with more people come more problems.”
She paused for a moment. ”That might be an issue, too - some of the people here came to escape...things. Some might be less fond than others to see the city become...well, a city, rather than a village squatting in the ruins.”
Aibek paused, considering what Quera said. The witchwolf was slightly familiar with the concept, some of the villagers around the Vakana lands arrived that way...and Aibek themself had essentially used Zhen Halfblood letter as an excuse to escape thinking about…
”I can see that being a concern for some. I’ll make sure to bring this up to Elie and the others...” Aibek made another note on their paper. ”Thank you a lot...for your thoughts and time. I’ll bring some of the others in when they return from their trips when I have a bit more time to look through your things...your stock and books and such. Have a good day...” Aibek added awkwardly, bowed politely as their brain painfully replayed the last couple sentences over and over while they tried to walk calmly and professionally out of nice Quera’s shop…
Odd smells and odder noises oozed from the Alchemist’s Shop. Strange lights flowed from the doors and windows into the street. Through the beaded curtain meant to keep the buzzing flies at bay the store is immaculately kept, white tiled floor and whitewashed walls scrubbed until they gleam. A young man - too young, barely a teenager, his dark skin heavy with blemishes and spots - mixes something viscous and bubbling in various tubes. ”Yes?” he asks without looking around.
Aibek paused at the young person, unsure - they looked very young and very busy. Hello, I’m Aibek. I’ve been going around the merchants to discuss a few things and ask about local concerns. I’m one of the...councilors working on clearing the Towers and things. I’m happy to arrange a better time if you’re all busy. I don’t want to get in the way of your work… Aibek said
Glancing around, the young boy pulled down his mask. ”Oh, yes, I heard about you. Uh, I’m sorry, my dad isn’t available right now. I can talk to you, so long as I keep one eye on this, so it doesn’t boil over.” Considering for a moment, and deciding this wasn’t enough, he added, ”I’m Helt, by the way.”
Aibek smiled with a nod, ”Nice to meet you, Helt. Like I said, I’ve been going around the shops and market today, introducing myself and trying to get an idea of local concerns, discuss my idea of a community meeting space, and just talk to people. With all that’s been happening the other...councilors and I have had less time to talk to and listen to people than I would like... particularly local young people. I’ve had an odd few weeks where I’ve talked to more ancient constructs...” Aibek finished with a sigh as they glanced at their list.
”Construct?” the boy said with a squeak. He coughed it away. ”It sounds like you’ve had a more exciting time than, uh, most people do. I mean, sometimes we get adventurers looting the towers, or people searching the ruins for stuff - Quera makes most of her money that way. And my dad sells them a lot of potions.”
He paused, considering. ”Meeting place? That sounds good. Most of them time we just talked in the Dust Devil, but people have been saying Duval did something and most people like Azerna’s better so they’re going there, and I figured we’d just talk there, but something like a meeting hall would be cool.” He brightened. ”Maybe we could use it as a school when no one is meeting?”
Aibek nodded with a warming smile, adding a note to their list ”That’s a good idea. With the Tower’s library being cleared, finding supplies for school may be a bit easier than before. How many do you think would be interested in one?” Aibek inquired, their mind juggling the ideas of what kinds of supplies would be needed, the challenge of designing lessons or training for young people in Khalharum now, and curiosity on how many kids were living in the town.
The boy considered the question. ”Maybe thirty or so? Especially if you have things that would let people learn other professions. I mean, my dad taught me alchemy, but unless I leave in a year or two there won’t really be anywhere for me to sell goods.” .He paused, and added wide-eyed, ”Oh, but there’s a lot of new people, and people say the population is going to go up now that you’ve got the Towers. Maybe we could expand instead.”
Aibek nods, jotting something else down as they responded, “Trying to expand is very likely, one of the reasons I’m attempting to meet with everyone is to understand how people would like to do that. Khalharum used to be much bigger with a lot in it. It’ll take a while and a lot of effort to do repairs and bring things back and build new, and prioritise by what people want and need helps me know what in all that I should focus on. A community hall where people can talk and such will make that easier, and making one where people can get together over meals, post tasks,...and be used as a place for lessons means it’ll be for the community which is important. And getting people together will help us find people who want to teach skills and trades... I know Nigrum is...eager teach people swordsmanship, I think Azri mentioned teaching certain magic skills, and scribe skills and similar have been mentioned to me...”
After a moment to pocket their note and charcoal, Aibek politely bowed to the young man, ”Thank you for your time and thoughts, Helt. I need do a few things before I prepare for a meal with some of the newer arrivals. I’ll be back around a week or so hopefully to talk to you and your family if I don’t see you all at Azerna’s inn before then. If you or yours want to reach me, that’s where I am staying with the others...though for now, it is just Azri, Azerna and I while the others are out on urgent business. Take care.” Aibek nodded with a small wave and smile before ducking out of the shop.
After leaving the Alchemist’s shop, Aibek looked around the rest of the market as they tried to talk to all of the merchants. Except Duval, Aibek didn’t trust themself to keep their calm around the gnome after learning what he had done to Azerna. The witchwolf returned to the Thirsty Dryad to clean up, neaten up their notes from meeting the merchants and prepare themself for their dinner with the refugees, freemen...Aibek added a note to ask if they had a preferred way to refer to their group. Upon returning, they found a response letter from Azri at their door. At first, the witchwolf was confused - they were talking to merchants and the people they had brought with them, not devils or...but then it clicked. Things were even less than they seemed here then they had in the places the shadow archon had worked before. Aibek pondered this while they got ready, adding another note to their list to thank Azri for their guidance.
Walking out in the evening in their usual attire plus cloak, Aibek cast a careful eye over their housing as they approached. On one hand, it was impressive what they had done in little time with few resources...and on the other, it was still essentially slum housing that could risk their health and create divisions and perception issues about them with those who had been local far longer. Soon after arriving in the area, a familiar face catches Aibek’s attention - and moments later the words ”Boss Aibek!” rang out.
The witchwolf tried to hide their cringe behind a chuckle as they sped their steps to catch up to a small group of boatworkers Aibek had met before. ”I thought I explained ‘Aibek’ was title enough...” the shadow archon began, catching a few uncomfortable glances, ”Though the Nexus in the Towers calls the others and I ‘councilors’, so I guess that makes me Councilor Aibek. Still not used to it though...what’s the plan for dinner?” Aibek said, trying to soothe the group and quickly change the topic before things got awkward.
There was a moment of silence followed by a cough. ”Well…bread and cheese, if we’re honest.” He paused for a moment. ”Oh, people have been really generous with food, but we’re kind of lacking a kitchen. Or equipment. Or fuel.”
Aibek looked around, grey eyes taking everything in. Trying to think quickly, Aibek suggests to the gathered group of people, ”I see. I’m fine with whatever you have planned. If you want...well...Azerna’s inn, the Thirsty Dryad which is a little over the bridge, has a good kitchen. I’ve been staying with her and helped her a bit...this isn’t usually a busy night for her so she’ll likely, maybe, let us cook and have the meal there. There are a few big tables and after all the effort you’ve put in… Aibek said nervously...
”Wait...” an unfamiliar man said, ”I thought all of you were moving or living in those big Towers or something. That’s what I’ve heard… that that’s why there were all those people like that giant orc guy working on it...one of the locals said that’s where people with the city’s symbols or something live...”
Aibek could not hide their surprise for a speechless moment, ”I...I reside at Azerna’s Thirsty Dryad...I obviously can’t speak for the others, but I’m quite happy there and have no intention of moving into the Towers in the foreseeable future... ” during their explanation, the witchwolf caught beginnings of whispers, but not enough to hear what was being said.
Somewhat satisfied, a group of a dozen or so with some carrying ingredients walked with Aibek as the sun was setting in Khalharum. Approaching the inn, Aibek sped up to get a chance to at least start asking Azerna before they all got in. Nervous and flustered, the witchwolf quickly approached the bar and talked quietly and quickly, Azerna, I...remember that meal I had planned with the people that the others and I brought into Khalharum with us? Well...um...they got all these special things, then something happened in their housing area and...I know it’s probably a big ask, but can they… we… share...borrow your kitchen for a bit? I’ll set the big table over there for them…and…”
”Certainly,” Azerna smiled. ”So long as they don’t mind me peeking in, and remember to clean up after themselves.”
”Thank you...” Aibek said with obvious relief in their smile, ”I’ll help with the cleaning and all that, I don’t want to put any further work on you. Thank you...” Aibek bowed slightly, turning and moving back to the group as they walked in. ”Azerna has kindly agreed, she’ll also be in the kitchen from time to time and obviously to not add on to what she’s doing, we’ll deal with any of the mess. Um...I’ll show those cooking to the kitchen and then help set up the big table over there...” Aibek pointed the table out before turning to head to the kitchen.
It was a blur of motion and activity for the witchwolf, but eventually, everyone was sat at the big table. Drink and conversation flowed, Aibek repeatedly thanked people throughout and found themself laughing and telling tales when requested like about the trip to Aroden’s temple. ”I’m hoping to head back there soon, maybe ask That Which Walks Beside some more questions and ask their permission for some seeds of the trees in the inner courtyard. There are a few other ruins over there as well, the whole area seems to be sanctified...” Aibek concluded.
The talking continued. Aibek explained they’ve been trying to talk to everyone to prioritise work. They mentioned how they talked to Pelar about a community meeting hall, how the smithy liked the idea and offered to help as well as train any of the group who may have interest and skill for forge work. ”Apparently his place is more popular in the evening once it gets chilly, it was boiling this afternoon when I was there...that reminds me - and I hope this isn’t too awkward but I feel I should ask - Pelar referred to you and those who came with you as freeman, others use refugees, former slaves... among other things... I typically just say the people who came in with the others and I when talking with others but now, like I said, I feel I should ask...do you and yours have a preference? I know it’s not the biggest issue you have but while we’re all still integrating here, I would like to respect your thoughts on something like that...” Aibek concluded a little nervously.
A small man - Halfling, given his bare, furry feet - replied with a shrug, ”Well, for myself I’d think ‘free’ has a nice ring to it, but we’re not all men. And I like to think I was never really a slave, just biding my time, so I can’t be what I don’t think I was. And I don’t think we can refugees with no war to flee, just bad choices. So maybe we could be people now?” He grinned. ”I’m Piper, Councilor.”
Aibek chuckled with a nod, It’s nice eating and talking with you Piper. I’m hoping soon the divisions won’t be on so many minds. Some of the those who’ve been local longer are a bit nervous...though some are excited. I met a young man today who seems very excited about new people and things, and a few who are hoping more trades can start growing in Khalharum. With things calmer, for the time being, I’m hoping - if it is okay - to come help with the housing and things. The others and I have found a few supplies that I think will help. The others and I are still working on prioritising all the work people want to get done, but getting the houses in the area most of you are in and then the housing ruins near here up is the first focus along with repairs to the barracks. I’ve spent quite a lot of time in barracks so hopefully I’ll be able to help there as well. Aibek concluded their ramble before quietly taking another piece of bread with a polite nod to one of the cooks.
It was well into the night before Aibek returned to the Thirsty Dryad. The conversations with Piper and the others went on late and Aibek insisted on walking them to their homes. The shadow archon meandered back with their thoughts as they enjoyed the comforting darkness on the way back. The witchwolf made effort to be as quiet as possible when they walked in. Mind still buzzing, they made an edited neatened list of their notes once more, plus a couple letters before tiredness began to fog their thoughts.
The following weeks turn into a blur that was slowly becoming a rhythm: Waking in late morning, spending time in the washroom followed by a light breakfast and then in their room working on repairs or writing; lunches spent among people in the community that Aibek tried to keep casual and friendly though not always successfully, afternoons spent on errands, helping others particularly down at the docks or with building or whatever else needing doing, and on quiet afternoons, they spent researching in the Tower & talking to the Nexus and/or Azri; evenings spent with Azerna - and others - at the Thirsty Dryad Inn talking and helping or having meals arranged with others; long walks late at night as the shadow archon works to get more familiar with the land and their new shadows, occasionally lending a dark clawed hand against those who tried to use the shadows to hide misdoings and violence, before returning to the inn to make further lists, notes for their map to add onto it or messages to give the next day. Once a week, at least, Aibek had tea with their youngest sibling during the night.
By the end of the three months, Aibek felt their map was as good as it could be without further exploration that needed more people to do safely and a growing list of notes they had written and rewritten as things had changed. They also had a small growing pile of books they had bought to supplement the slightly out of date ancient library on topics of the local area and other things that grabbed the witchwolf’s interest or thought others may find useful. After a lot of persuading from multiple women on the usefulness of it for everyone, the events of one dark night led Aibek to start helping some of the women of Khalharum learn more advanced defence and fighting skills though there seemed to be as much teasing as learning going on in the space they used beside the Thirsty Dryad Inn once a week. Aibek hoped they were starting to build a good relationship with the city and it’s people. At least, they were starting to know most people and most people seemed at okay with them being around and helping.
The shadow archon, in quiet moments, found themself excited… nervous… mixed fluttering emotions as they started to look forward.
"Laaand Hoooo!", the lookout bellowed from the crow's nest.
Sailors bustled on deck, waking Mihara up one morning. She took little time to get changed, both literally and figuratively, and Kala Vestos stepped out on deck, watching as a familliar island came closer and closer.
Home. It's been a while.
"Ah, good morning, Miss Vestos,", the captain greeted her as she approached. "So this is the fabled island you sought to reach? I can certainly see why someone would want to visit such a place."
I wouldn't quite say visit...
"Quite so, Captain Shang. Though I must say I quite enjoyed a trip aboard your ship. I cannot possibly thank you enough for taking me on board."
"Ah, say no more." the captain smiled. "Everyone deserves to see home every once in a while."
Mihara paused for a moment. Had he just...
Captain Shang adjusted his vest and offered a pleasant smile. "Your secret is safe with me."
The sun was setting and the wind was cool as the ship docked at the harbour with a creak of timbers and the smell of sea salt strong in the air. The thick hemp rope, stiff with salt, tie the ship to the dock and the gangplank slid down to the pier with a clank. Captain Whitebeard bellowed to make sure the ropes were secured in the kind of bellow that made people fear for the glass of the windows nearby.
The red-robed figure that walked along the plank was familiar to the Council of Khalharum, especially Selena and Ayreth who had seen the figure most recently. Redemption of the Azure Flame paused, pulling his hood back and turning to look at the city before him, the last flickers of sunlight splashing across his metallic skin in a dark orange wave.
And it was certainly starting to look like a city. Scaffolding surrounded the damaged Towers, slowly being restored by both the hands of mortal kind and the power of Nexus. Although still a shadow of it's former might, one of the more fundamental abilities seemed to be the ability to create the raw material needed, and to shape it, although such powers were limited. But noticeably several of the bridges had been restored and reinforced, and others were starting to creep closer together once more.
And it wasn't the Towers alone that had been restored. Sitting in there shadow a barracks, it's walls freshly whitewashed and gleaming in the early evening torch light. Redemption's gaze turned to the closer island, and the new housing that had replaced the refugee camps and temporary shelters that the refugees had begun. The streets seemed tended in the occupied areas, although the lights being lit as the dusk descended showed just how much of the city still stood empty.
More worryingly, small lights also appeared on the other islands. They had only appeared in the last few days. Shattered Glass Gnolls? The remnants of Khaul's troops? Some other, unknown threat? Disconected from those sections, Nexus could not tell, and so far scout expeditions had met with nothing to report or not returned at all, but no attacks had come
The Oracle nodded at the sight, clearly impressed, before continuing down the pier to greet those who awaited him.
Aibek nodded as they spotted those on the ship they were looking for from where they stood out of the way at the end of the pier near the stairs to the city.
Leaning slightly back into the growing darkness of sunset, hands resting out of sight behind their back, the witchwolf smiled warmly. Chatting with the townsfolk, Aibek looked almost relaxed, just enjoying the dimming light of evening and the good mood of the people around them.
When close enough, Aibek waved them over and called out, "Good to see you well, I hope your trip was fine..."
Aibek was pleased...and tired. Their dark grey eyes flickered around as if worried about missing something but their anxious attention was brought back to the present company time and again as the shadow archon listened the people talk.
The small lights from the other islands needed to be investigated properly - and soon. And Azri knew just the person to do that - between the fact that she didn't need to breathe and her ability to hold completely still for long periods of time, she was quite capable when it game to stealth. Knowledge was important, after all.
As for her activities, well... mostly research and a little bit of crafting, plus chatting with Nexus and making sure everything was in order. She enjoyed setting policies to help guide the city, and had come up with a fairly straightforward plan for that - protect the core of the city and its ability to regulate itself, and slowly expand outward from there. It wasn't fancy, but hey, you didn't need to make things more complicated than necessary.
Now they just needed to properly manage immigration and strengthen their biological resources...
|
-------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Reaching the dock, you disembark and see a familiar figure standing on the side. Grimrod Guthook, leaning on a waraxe bigger than some members on your group, glowers in your direction and waves you to come over to where he an Elie are speaking. Of course, anything less than being bellowed at with a booze-soaked belch was a mark of respect for the monstrous Berserker.
She walks up to the orc, coming to a halt in front of him. Standing as tall as her 4'9" height allows, she claps her fist to her chest in a formal gesture. "Grimrod," she says curtly. Her frame relaxes and she steps close to the orc. She reaches up to his neck, and pulls his head down to her level, and kisses him affectionately on the cheek before stepping back just before he delivers his news.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------
The voyage back to Khalharum was mostly uneventful with the exception of a couple minor incidents. Nights on the ocean allowed Ayreth to seemingly see every star in the sky. Finding that her need for sleep had diminished greatly, she spent those nights in contemplation of her new home, family, and abilities. Each had developed so much since answering Grandfather Zhen’s summons.
One night on deck, she started singing a lullaby she had heard when she was very young. Moments later, she heard several thumps as sailors’ bodies hit the deck. Ayreth had just enough time to find out that they were asleep, and not dead before they began to rouse. While nothing unfortunate occurred during that time, it affected the superstitious sailors who gave her a wide berth after that. She heard whispers of “siren” and such and learned to keep to herself.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Since she’s been back, Ayreth has been helping with the repairs, in particular helping with the injuries that occur during construction work.
Meeting the ship at the docks, Ayreth greets Redemption. She claps her fist to her chest. ”Salutations, any news?,” she asks in a rush.
Selena leans over the edge of the ship, looking at Khalarum approaching as the sun dips below the horizon. Unlike most of the others, she had not come back to the city in the last three months: smiling at the sight of the scaffolding around the towers and the new houses along the coast, the half-succubus sits on one of her luggages, gazing at the horizon.
"I hope I'll be up to the task, grampa..." she mutters to herself, passing her finger on the Hopeful Eye around her neck.
As they draw closer to the port, Selena starts waving energetically at Ayreth and Redemption. "" she shouts, picking up a couple of her luggages and flying over the dock before the ship finished landing.
Running to Ayreth, she hugs her sister, lifting her a bit off the ground and kissing her on the cheek, before giving a quick hug to redemption.
"Everything's okay?" the half-succubus asks with a smile.
The Ironborn bowed politely once Selena was finished. "Aibek. Azri. Ayreth. Selena. It is a pleasure for one such as me as I to see you all again, especially in such a short space of time. I am most blessed to see you both again, Aibek and Azri. I did not imagine my tasks would bring me here and int your paths again so soon." Pausing, and considering, he added, "Forgive my informal address, please. Grimrod ordered me to remove the 'stick', as he put it, or he'd add his boot. As it were. I've been practicing."
Flexing his fingers, Redemption added, "Everything is alright, yes. The search continues, as it were. As for news...debatable?" The Ironborn considered. "We were able to trace where the teleport spell went, with work. The one who invaded the Tomb of the Halfblood came here afterwards." Redemption shrugged. "As I said, not exactly news - or at least, not a surprise - but use confirmation."
Turning, and bowing formally, he added, "If it pleases the Council of Khalharum, I have been instructed to formally relocate here, and to begin focusing on locating more information. Stonespine is too large and too...unpleasant to search physically, especially given the rumours around it's interior, and so it has been suggested narrowing the search magically first might be a wise method."
Azri nodded slightly. "I don't see any problems with that. I don't think we really want to micromanage you, either - don't hesitate to come to us if you think it's something we genuinely need to get involved with, but for the most part, just use your best judgment and try to avoid unnecessary risks." she opined.
|
|
Ayreth initially returns the hug, but after a moment, she taps Selena on the shoulders. "...must...breathe..." Once Selena releases her grip, Ayreth steps back smiling, letting Selena know that she was mostly joking. "Welcome back!" Turning back to Redemption, she says, "Sorry, what I meant to say was 'Welcome to Khalharum'. I'm glad you're here. Please let us know what we can do to help."
Aibek silently observed, considering things carefully, until Redemption acknowledged and address them. Returning the bows, Aibek listened quietly for a few moments, returning their hands to behind their back, looking to each person as they spoke before returning their attention to Redemption...
"The informal address is fine, Redemption, I'm still finding being called Councilor a bit strange..." Aibek began with a small smile "I agree with Azri, I don't see any issues, if they've come to Khalharum I'd want them found fast. I or one of the others could help with using the Nexus to do some searches. It currently can only really do this and the central island, but it would be a start. Hopefully the one who invaded the Halfblood tomb will mess up again and make it easier to find them. You can also look at some of the houses, we've built quite a few in the last couple of months. That's for another day though. For tonight...I think Azerna has a room. After this hectic day, I'm looking forward to getting back to the inn..."
The twin masts of a tianese travel ship make themselves known over the horizon, and the shouts of foreign sailors approaching land for the first time in months can be heard faintly on the wind.
Of more immediate interest, a youthful vulpine figure alights on the dock, not all that far from the assembled companions. A black kitsune, she bears a striking resemblance to the soon-due-to-return Mihara, albeit without the golden rings, and looking to be about ten years younger. Her manner of dress is similar to what Mihara would favor, though perhaps more conservative and formal: A white ceremonial dress accented in a rich forest green.
Aside from a travel backpack looking fit to burst at the seams from overfilling, the figure bears a light crossbow.
The kitsune looks about, taking in the towers' incredible size up close and the growing village.
"Whoa! Big Sister Mihara wasn't exaggerating!" She remarks perhaps a little too loudly to herself, in a cleanly spoken Tian. The name, though, is obvious to anyone overhearing.
You could almost see something whirl in the partially mechanical man's head. "With three agreements, I believe I can continue. And thank you all for the greetings and allowances. I promise I shall take no risks - to myself or others." Nodding to Aibek, he added, "I have heard...rumours...of the heart of the city in this place. I look forward to consulting it. And an Inn sounds pleasant."
Turning as the new ship docked, Redemption remarked, "I had not realized the harbour here was already so busy. I believe that is...Mihara?" The Ironborn Oracle tilted his head for a moment, studying the newcomer and trying to determine what she was, exactly.
"The Thirsty Dryad Inn is very pleasant." Aibek replied with a grin before their attention was pulled to the new ship. "Certainly looks and sounds like a Tian ship..." Aibek commented with a chuckle as they took a few steps towards it.
Upon overhearing the first person they spot coming off of the ship, Aibek calls out Tien, "Welcome! I hope your trip here to Khalharum went well. You are Councilor Mihara's kin? " The witchwolf was going for friendly - along with trying to help show off Mihara's status to further show any lack of exaggeration on the rogue's part - though a stranger drapped almost head to toe in dark clothes and armour in a crowded harbour at sunset knowing so much...with shadows seeming to cling and dance around their feet and behind their back..well...Aibek kept a good few paces away just in case they came across less friendly than they hoped.
As she heard the foreign language, Azri tapped the side of her head, activating her Tongues to aid in communication for a short time. It probably wasn't going to hurt, at least, to be able to hear someone better.
Finishing her round of hugs, Selena nods at Redemption "Well, knowing that they got here after that is still something. Did we manage to get anything out of the blood?"
"Hi there!" Selena runs after Aibek, waving with a smile at the smaller, younger Foxy, adding to the list of weird people that approached the young Kitsune just as she stepped into the city.
She's so cute!