Milhar goes over to the orc shaman and tries to see if healing will help, or if the leader is truly dead.
Then he stands waiting near the orcs, waiting for a decision when his own mind is all a muddle.
Pietro slips inside the tent and stands by the door listening while the old orc makes his plea. The looks at the orcs grey muscley physiques and thinks they look more like part of the Horde than real people. Despite his disgust and prejudice, something in the old shaman's story stirs him. Ruins to explore, evil to fight. A worthy cause.
When the old orc's breath stops, Pietro freezes. He is torn between a desire help and to turn away. He watches Milhar cross to the old orc with relief that someone is going. He steps aside with the captain and the others. But he is only half-listening. His eyes keep sliding over to Milhar and the orcs.
Captain Venn's words turn over in his mind. As the story unfolds, he gives Cynthia a look of sympathy and shakes his head. One thing bothers him. He waits until the captain finishes before asking, "Captain? What secrets were we keeping from the village?"
Algret listens to the captain quietly, saddened by the old orc's death. Her eyes show the weight of the hard decisions made in recent days, and for a moment she seems very young and very tired.
"I am conviced there is more to this island than we know. The hought of leaving the eople in the village to fend for them selves rends my heart, yet if what the shaman said is true, while we go there looking for survivors, what breaks free in the forest may threaten all we have brought to safty here. I say we handle the biggest threat first, the supplies will still be there after. The village survivors,....we can only pray that they can hold out if there are any."
Cynthis takes in the thoughts of the others before responding to the Captain's words.
"I'm not so sure there will be any surviviors from what I heard on my way out. Phillipe," she motions towards the boy, "says that they were all holed up at the tavern, but with all of the Spiders around it could only have been a matter of time before they were all killed. I agree that the ruins seem to be our best option at this stage. Hopefully by the time we get to the village all of the Spiders will have had their fill and moved on. At least then we can get to raiding the leftovers for any supplies we need."
Milhar
When Milhar checks the ancient orc, h does indeed discover he has passed from this realm. Almost he is aware of an after presence. A lingering shard of spirit just out of reach of his concious thoughts. Then it departs, blown away like the faint aroma jasmine flower on a spring breeze.
Pietro (and those near him at the time)
In response to Pietro's question, the captain frowns slightly. He casts a quick glance at Cynthia before shruging and explaining his original plans for the village.
"Many of the folk in Haven were pirates lad. They had pulled up their canvas, to be sure, but a man cannot change his nature so easily. Always when we traded with them in the ast we made a show of strength and set a double watch. Here we are now with a ship mostly full of women and children. Half of our capable folk were off trying to scrounge supplies. What would have happened do you think if the leaders of Haven had heard abbout a boat full of women that were barely guarded?" He shakes his head, the lank and sweat damp hair of his head waving heavily with the motion. "When I sent Jaekyl and the others, they were to make it clear we were sending the skiff along to gather the supplies they bartered for. The story was for the ship to have suffered some storm damage and had anchored in this inlet to make short repairs and be away fast. Havens bay is deeper, but it takes a pounding during rough weather. This story would've sufficed."
As more and more of the group start to put their weight behind helping the orcs, the captains face darkens. Eventually he holds up his hand as the talking around him continues. "Enough! you have obviously made your choice. Help the blackbloods if you feel it is right. I will organise another group to go save the lives of those others as we can. You can leave tomorrow morning. At the moment you are needed here."
His tone is as angry and abrubt as you have heard it since cleansing the taint of the bugbear from the area. Apparently not all of the captains mood swings were a consequence of that evil creatures influence. His last statement was also an order couched in nicer words. Interesting.
Pietro nods at the captain's explanation of the "secrets." Although he disapproved of lying on principal, given the situation, it made sense not to advertise the ship's weakness.
***
The young man listened somewhat incredulously as Algret voices support for helping the orcs. He is even more astounded when Cynthia also supports helping the orcs over returning to her village. Even though he agrees with the captain, Pietro is a little intimidated and abashed by Venn's vehemence. He quickly speaks up to support the captain and smooth things over.
"Captain, I agree we should check the village first, but this lady dwarf also has the greater good at heart. There's only a few fighters to go around and lots of threats. If some dire beast's loose in the ruins it may threaten us and the orcs alike. "
"We know for sure there's people who've been attacked by these spiders. And some people might be left there and need rescue. Now.'
" I think we've got to go there first. We can take care of the spiders. Then some people can gather supplies while we go on to these ruins."
diplomacy to smooth over the Cap
"The young man has a point Captain." Turning slightly so as to obviously be addressing both the Captain and the new leader of the Orcs Bo-Dan continues "How far apart would the village be from where the elder, Gods rest his soul, would have us go? Would it not be possible to first lead a team to the village and once we assure it is safe, allow the others to check for survivors and gather supplies while we head towards the source of Evil?"
Although it seems clear she is still not quite herself, the young half-elf is making a noticeable effort to move on past her sadness. As she finishes speaking, she turns an encouraging and approving gaze on the young man, who's name she is still uncertain of, impressed with his wise suggestion.
Cynthia shrugs. "I'm not worried which course we take. Even if we can do something to save the village, there's no life left for me there now, so whatever the rest of you decide is fine with me."
A gleam of hope came to the captains eyes as Pietro and the two women spoke. "Aye then, I knew you were folk as I could trust. The three of you then can go to Haven. Cynthia, I know you have just fled from that place, but surely your knowledge of the place would be of use to this group, and increase our chance of surviving such a venture."
He looked to the others, his demeanour totally changed from teh brupt and angry man of before. "This is perfect. The four of you can assist the orcs. They seem to have responded to your efforts of yesterday with trust. Lets try and keep it. Fight this ....evil, if you must. I do not believe our luck will continue to hold before we are spotted by one of the corsair ships. I would like to be gone from this bay within five days if at all possible. Take that as a timeline. We need those supplies from Haven, but we need to be in open waters if we hope to outrun any of the Varisians who catch sight of our sails also. No good having fresh supplies if the ship gets taken. Five mroe days."
The captain seems to have finished his speech and moves to walk off, again acting as though all would listen to his words and accept the as gospel.
Skilhar moves back to the group, having finished his farewells to the fallen Shaman. He moves carefully, looking at the gathering. Some he has met, and trusts to a small degree, others he has never seen. He speaks quietly, the words coming out in broken common "We go now. You come to help?"
Cynthia
There seems to be an aroma in the air. Something spicy that reminded the warlock of Kyle. She'd always assumed it was just a smell that he had, something that always aroused her, sometimes at very awkward moments. Now here it was again, though a slightly diferent feel to it. Cynthia's nerves tingle with the scent of it, and her heart beats a little faster. What was it?
Symington raises an eyebrow at the captain's tone and phrasing, both before and after his blow-up. But he nods respectfully as the captain turns and walks off.
"Well then. We would seem to have our tasks set for us?!" He observes wryly. "Nothing like a brisk stroll through the jungle! SHall we carry on then?" He asks in his proper accent. The dandy strolls to face the orc, and gives him a brief but respectful bow over his cane. "I am Symington Smythe. I shall be one of the ones accompanying you. I do not believe I caught your name?"
"Skilhar here wants to know who will accompany him. I go with you, Skilhar because I promised to your shaman. May the Source protect us."
Milhar quickly gathers up his few things and a fair share of the drying meat. He then asks Sen, "I am going into danger, again, do you with to come or stay here and help the people for me. You may choose."
He pats the lovely little construct on the head gently.
Before leaving Milhar grabs a quiet word with Algret.
Algret/DM
Cynthia's back straightens, her already tall physique seeming to grow before your eyes. She looks around, eyes squinting as if she were looking for something but doesn't quite know what it is she's looking for.
Distracted for the moment, she ignores the others as she tries to search out whatever it is that is making her so flustered.
Perception Check:
** retro **
Pietro waits anxiously for a reply to his suggestion. Had he been out of place? Would he be dismissed as foolish?
He is gratified by Bo-dan's support and look. He smiles back, but turns red, and his head bobs as he simultaneously tries to stand straight up proudly and shyly hide his embarrassment at any public attention.
** after the Captain's orders **
Pietro moves quickly through the crowd over to Bo-dan. "Pietro Blanco. Thank you for speaking. Was afraid I'd been too loud there."
After Bo-dan replies, Pietro looks for Cynthia to pull her in to the conversation. "Miss Cynthia. Please." He tries to wave her over. When she arrives he says awkwardly, "I am Pietro Blanco." Then he falls silent. He isn't sure at all what to make of this red-garbed woman with so little regard for her home village.
** On the way out of the tent **
Pietro tugs gently on Symmington's sleeve. "Master Symmington, sir. I wish you were coming with us. "
Bo-Dan smiles kindly at the young man's awkward acknowledgement of her praise. When he comes over to her to introduce himself her smile widens in genuine fondness for she can sense right away that this is a good and honest young man, although perhaps his youth still fuels his lack of confidence.
Looking directly into his eyes she says with authority
"Do not ever be afraid or ashamed to speak what is in your heart young Pietro, most especially when it is a heart as good and pure as I know you to possess. If there is one thing that the hatred and scorn one of my kind receives throughout their life has taught me, it is to always stand tall and proud in who and what you are, no matter the opinions of others. Only you determine the course the river of your life takes Pietro, and when you believe in yourself, that river shall lead you to wondrous places."
Smiling once again at the earnest young man's reaction to her attempt at an encouraging speech, the half-elf merely nods her head to him in reply.
Her smile falters and then fades away completely though as the other woman, Cynthia, joins their small group. Although there is no denying her beauty, something about the woman rubs the monk the wrong way and so Bo-Dan finds a warring of emotions in herself in the presence of the leather clad human. Not wanting to start off on bad terms with someone upon whom her life may very well depend in the near future Bo-Dan bows her head slightly as she replies in a monotone voice
"Greetings to you, Cynthia. Perhaps, at your convenience, you might consider sitting down with Pietro and I and filling us in on the details of your village and the fate which befell it? Anything you can share with us which may aid us in our quest would be welcome."
Wrath
Wrath, how do you want to handle Paera's 're-introduction' to the group? Do you want to write it? Or do you just want to introduce her and I can write it from Bo-dan's point of view? Also, how much interaction will she be having as an NPC in things? I honestly thought she was out of the story for good, but I'm happy to have her back in. So however you want to roll with it, just let me know.
Bo Dan
I will write her into the scene and then you can respond for Bo Dan. Originally I was going to have you catch a glimpse of her leaving on the skiff for the village, but that was before I split the group.
She certainly hasn't disapeared from your life completely. Shes only on the ship at the moment while you're on the beach. It should prove interesting for both of you when she joins the rescue mission.
As for Cynthia, your portrayal of disliking her may work out perfectly. For some reason the new female really does set you on edge, though you're not sure why. You seem to find yourself berathing a little more rapidly when she's around, and a slightly elevated heart rate. She is...intriguing.
Cynthia
Cynthia can't get a bearing in where the scent is coming from. That is until she moves closer to Pietro and Bo Dan. With these two nearby the aroma is almost overpowering. The intiial effect on her body is almost distrssing. The emotions roiling within her are confusing, and almost innapropriate.
Milhar
Sen moves wordlessly to follow the young man after he makes his intentions known. The feeling of loyalty and growing friendship from the little doll is quite lovely. There is a trust there, one seemingly unsullied by any forms of betrayal or mistreatment. Somehting very rare between sentient beings in this world. He will come with you it seems.
Wrath
[spoiler]Sounds good. And...intriguing ;-)
Bo-Dan smiles kindly ....
Looking directly into his eyes she says with authority
"Do not ever be afraid or ashamed to speak what is in your heart young Pietro, most especially when it is a heart as good and pure as I know you to possess. If there is one thing that the hatred and scorn one of my kind receives throughout their life has taught me, it is to always stand tall and proud in who and what you are, no matter the opinions of others. Only you determine the course the river of your life takes Pietro, and when you believe in yourself, that river shall lead you to wondrous places."Smiling once again at the earnest young man's reaction to her attempt at an encouraging speech, the half-elf merely nods her head to him in reply.
Pietro smiles broadly but looks a little hang-dog too at Bo-dan's last clause. "I -- I hope so. I've never really been anywhere, except this voyage."
Her smile falters ... as ... Cynthia, joins their small group. ...
"Greetings to you, Cynthia. Perhaps, at your convenience, you might consider sitting down with Pietro and I and filling us in on the details of your village and the fate which befell it? Anything you can share with us which may aid us in our quest would be welcome."
Pietro nods and sincerely looks interested in anything Cynthia has to say.
Algret nod at the decision to split the group and goes over to where Milhar prepares.
Milhar
"Hmm.. that would definitely help Bo-dan, but do you think you are capable? I am only just learning what Shale is capable of, her magic is strong and...powerful."
Bo-Dan smiles kindly ....
Looking directly into his eyes she says with authority
"Do not ever be afraid or ashamed to speak what is in your heart young Pietro, most especially when it is a heart as good and pure as I know you to possess. If there is one thing that the hatred and scorn one of my kind receives throughout their life has taught me, it is to always stand tall and proud in who and what you are, no matter the opinions of others. Only you determine the course the river of your life takes Pietro, and when you believe in yourself, that river shall lead you to wondrous places."Smiling once again at the earnest young man's reaction to her attempt at an encouraging speech, the half-elf merely nods her head to him in reply.
Pietro smiles broadly but looks a little hang-dog too at Bo-dan's last clause. "I -- I hope so. I've never really been anywhere, except this voyage."
After her nod though the monk cannot help but add to clarify
"I did not mean merely wondrous destinations Pietro; the most important, and the most rewarding, journeys we can make are those we take within. Stay true to yourself brave soul and find wondrous things, and places, inside yourself."
Symington nods at Milhar's statement to the orks, and stands easily, hands resting idly atop his cane, as preparations begin to flurry into motion around him. He does very little himself, seemingly content to watch. Though it is apparent to any who observe him that he misses little of what goes on around him. He seems to be preparing mentally as others prepare physically. His eyes widen in surprise at the sight of Milhar's tiny doll companion, and he kneels on one knee to examine it more closely. Careful not to even attempt to touch it, he asks Milhar, "IS that what I think it is? A spirit doll? Magnificent work. Lovely craftsmanship. Where on earth did you ever acquire such a treasure?" HE inquires softly. HE turns to his raven, sitting upon his shoulder, and states.
"See? I TOLD you that you could be replaced!"
Seraph's only response is a distinct raspberry.
** On the way out of the tent **
Pietro tugs gently on Symmington's sleeve. "Master Symmington, sir. I wish you were coming with us. "
Smythe gives a small smile.
"Nonsense lad! I wish YOU were coming with US! You have skill, and courage. WHat you lack is experience, and knowledge. Neither is difficult to acquire, providing you survive the experience!" HE declares wryly. The mage leans closer to Pietro and speaks softer."People think that I have mystic powers. Well, I do. But THEY think so because of what I am able to tell them about themselves! That isn't magic lad, it's simple observation, and deduction. Anyone can do it, given iron-discipline, and years of training, researching and memorizing obscure minutia. Would you like to know what I have observed about you?" He asks idly in a surprise change of topic.
"You have great courage, but you think too much. Not normally something I would ever tell someone. IF anyone actually has purity of spirit, and power from goodness, I believe it may be you. I have observed that when you think, you question your own actions, causing you to delay. When you react without thinking, as with the raptor on the beach, you invariably leap INTO danger, not away from it. This tells me that you have courage in abundance, and the desire to protect others at all costs, even to your own health."
"You have a good head on your shoulders lad, use it. Common sense unfortunately isn't common. But when it comes to danger, don't think too much. Trust your instincts." He says, tapping Pietro lightly on the chest with the head of his cane.
"I do wish you were coming with us. I have a feeling that I'll need protecting before this excursion is complete! But there's a village out there that has people in it that need help. ANd that is a task you are imminently suited for! But if the old ork was right, and I have no reason to disbelieve him, there is an even greater danger, and it sounds like I am better suited to deal with it."
Symington gives Pietro a once up and down look.
"DO be careful, I would be very unhappy if anything were to happen to you. And upon our return I would like to hear a complete recounting of your adventures. DO try to pay attention to details, won't you? I would be most grateful." He says with a smile.
Algret tilts her head to the side as Symington speaks to Pietro, staring at him as if seeing past the dandy for the first time.
Leaving
Farewells are made, and some tears shed as again the group heads into danger. The two children seem to grip Algret tightly, their arms having to be gently peeled from the dwarf by the caring hands of Bo Dan. "Come back safe Ma-ahti" they whisper into her ear before moving away to stand with the others.
Vik is again kissed deeply by the girl who greeted him yesterday. This time the big Ulfen returns the gesture heartily, picking the young woman up off the sand and twirling her in his embrace as he does so. There is a hoot of general laughter and appreciation from the crowd, but not from her mother. When he sets the girl down, her breathing is deep and her face flushed. She steps back quickly, her face down as the crowd laughs, but her eyes look uo through long lashes at the big ulfen. Her smile is almost shy, though there is a hint of promise there too.
Symmington and Milhar seem to be mostly left to themselves by the group. Even Captain Venn, a man who usually took Milhars council seriously didn't say anything to the grouop this time. Another sign of his general displeasure that the group weren't following his plan.
Evetually Skilhar calls the party forwards and the entire group moves into the jungle. Two of the orcs carry the wrapped body of teh dead shaman between them. Skilhar and vik are moving at the head of the company, the hunter pointing things out to the Ulfen again as they move. Milhar and Symmintgon form the tail end of the group with a lone orc trailing them by maybe twenty feet, keeping an eye on their backtrail. They make good time leading into the green expans eof the vlcanoes slopes.
Vik and Symmington
The jungle seems alive to both of the men who partook of the halfling ritual. Plants seem to call to them, speaking of flavours and scents they hadn't realised before. Here a floer bloomed that could eaze a ramping stomach, there a broad leaf that needed to be eaten carefull to avoid tearful eyes. Somehwere they caught the sound of a deep breath, exhaled as if through large nostrils, and the slow regular beat of a giant heart.
Milhar and Algret
Neither of the magic users have much idea of how to construct a companion doll. The timbers of both constructs have now changed significantly, to the point where identifying their original grain would be almost impossible. There are also componnets of metal and crystal that are probably not available on the island.
Campsite
Watching the others walk into teh jungle and possible oblivion leaves mixed feelings to those who remain behind. However, teh time for reflection is very short as Captain Venn again orders people to get the meat prepared.
The day wears on, the sun slowly passing through its zenith and sinking lower down the horizon. A great feast is prepared as the sun starts to set. A large group of women had moved into the jungle that afternoon, watched over by people with weapons. They had returned with a haul of fruits and edible plants that had previously been locked off from teh camp thanks to teh orc totems. The smell of roasting meats, liver, kidney and heart drifts enticingly across the beach and soon everyone gathers around a makeshift series of tables heaped with fresh foods. People are serveed on plates of palm leaves, casks of grog are breached and shared amongst those present, even some of teh older children having thechance to imbibe some. The night was redolent with merryment and laughter. It was almost surreal, this scene of happiness surrounding the group while the background of savage jungle and unforgiving ocean rared behind them. As if to counterpoint the fun, a distant flash of light signalled another storm brewing somewhere out to sea.
Cynthia
Three times the young woman had been approached by men from teh campsite to join them in a drink, or a dance...or something else in at least one case. It was like these people had never seen a woman before, which was amazing given how many women folk there were in this place. At least one of teh locals wasn't impressed as far as hs ecould tell. The girl who had kissed the Ulfen brute goodbye earlier this afternoon stared daggers into Cynthia everytime a man approached her.
The half elf, Bo Dan, also kept looking at her strangely. She hadn't caught that scent again all afternon, but the thought of it lingered.
Bo Dan
All around was merriement, laughter and dancing. It all seemed so muted and dull, as if seen through a haze of smoke or a silken veil. The clours of the world were dulled.
More confusing, she had found herself staring at the young woman who had come into camp this afternoon. Soemthing was puzzling about her, but the monk couldn't put a handle on it.
A familar voice spoke suddenly from about her waist height "Somehting puzzles you my girl. Tell me do, I love puzzles1". It was Christoff, the gnome engineer from Vixen. He was dressed in his gaudy best and flagon of grog was held loosely in his hands. It was quite apparent he was a little drunk.
Pietro
This all reminded the young Paladin of harvest fest. The celebrating, the dancing, the heavy alcohol. The young man was certainly enjoying himself. Even his father seemed to have lightened up this night, smiling broadly and dancing with teh others.
A light touch on his arm made him turn, and he was suddenly faced with the lovely smile of Astallia. The young woman was standing very close to him, he face turned up and a reflecting the glow of the fires in her cheeks and full lips. She leaned forwards and stood on tip toe as she whispered in his ear "It is so crowded here Pietro, come walk with me to somewhere quiet. I have something for you". Her eyes gleamed, the pupils very wide as she looked into his face.
The Jungle
The afternoon ends quickly in the dim light of the thck jungle. The sounds of the forest begin to change as more nocturnal creatures emerge from their lairs. Great swarms of insects begin to move through the heavy air, hovering around to feed on night blooms and blood.
The orcs don't break stride despite this darkness, and it is only when Vik mentions to them that some of the group will need light that they halt long enough for some to be used.
Within a few hours, they have reached the shoulder of the mountain that lets them look down into the orc village. The place is filled with movement, caught in glimpses of light as the inhabitants move quickly amongst the watch fires. It seems as if the entire village is packing and preparing to move. Even the young ones seem to be laden with gear. From somwhere, a great bellow sounds and briefly the party catches a glimse of a psauropod raring its head in the fire light. Great packs have been strapped to its back and a leader rope tied around its head. Three of the orcs continue on the trail here, taking the body of the dead shaman down to their home. Skilhar remans behind with the group from the beach.
"I take you Watchers Cave" he states simply, turnig from the scene and leading you back around the mountains shoulder. For most of them, the trail is familiar, though the last time they had seen it a storm had been brewing. Symmington is the only one to which this is all new, and the mage seems to be taking everything in with great interest.
At last they arrive at the great split obsidian. The eldritch runes on their face still glows faintly with blue light, barely visible and only then because the low light allows their glow to be seen. Inside, the cave appears to be like they had left it when they raided the orc village. Skilhar stands at the entrance, seemingly unwilling to enter the place now. Watcher say you to start here. Somthething for you to finsh here. Some .....Klu'rrkra to be done with". He seems to struggle with the word at first, finally settling for what is obvioulsy an orcish term. "The wards broken now. Juju be going back to the fireman. I go to help family." he turns to leave, but before he does he says one last thing "Be waiting for you here. Two suns I stay. If not back then you be dead and family needs to be gone. Don't be dead".
sense motive DC12 (-2 to your roll if you dont speak orcish)
The last words Skilhar speaks seem to be tinged with a small amount of fear. He is genuniely interested in group succeeding, but possibly not becasue he cares about them
Those who understand orcish
The word Klu'rrkra means devil spirit or fire child. Orcs use it for a number of different creatures
If you understood the orcish
Knowledge planes or knowledge arcana DC 15
When orcs speak of Klu'rrkrait usually means some form of bound spirit. These can be nature spirits like elementals, or planar creatures such as devils.
Milhar shrugs to Algret, "I can but try. With the help of our familiars and a dwarvish craftswoman I think the Source will provide the rest. I'll grab a few moments with that girl when I can."
He follows Skilhar until everyone stops at the obsidian and then slowly brings out the bugbear's short sword.
"Two days it is then. Thank you for waiting and guiding us here. You are brave to do this. It is a shame you cannot come further and give us the benefit of your good eyes in the dark, but I understand."
As they stand waiting for the others, Symington nods politely to Milhar, but says nothing. He seems content to stand and observe. But Milhar notices that the man's eyes are constantly moving. The only comment he makes is a single "Hmm', as he gazes at the Captain. His glance flicks to Milhar, and he gives a small smile of reassurance. As Vik and the Ork lead them into the jungle, he shoulders his pack, (Which Milhar doesn't remember seeing him get), and the dandy swings his cane jauntily as if off on a stroll.
Symington looks mildly surprised as he enters the jungle with the others. "Fascinating,..." is the only word the usually chatty mage utters before concentrating on the hike.
He observes the controlled commotion in the Ork village with interest, and obligingly follows with the rest to the cave. When they reach the slightly glowing pillars, he examines them closely. Idly tracing the runes with a fingertip, and at one point touching the fingertip to his tongue, then spitting and raising an eyebrow. He frowns at Seraph, who has flown up and perched atop one of the pillars. "Have a little respect." he mutters,...
The dandy turns back to the group, and nods to the ork with a small smile.
"Two days will be fine. Thank you. Not dying is always one of my top priorities." He says straight-faced. He turns to Vik and Milhar.
"You were here before, yes? Could you be so kind as to describe what happened? And please, be precise as to details."
** On the way out of the tent **
Pietro tugs gently on Symmington's sleeve. "Master Symmington, sir. I wish you were coming with us. "Smythe gives a small smile.
"Nonsense lad! I wish YOU were coming with US! ... But there's a village out there that has people in it that need help. ANd that is a task you are imminently suited for! But if the old ork was right, and I have no reason to disbelieve him, there is an even greater danger, and it sounds like I am better suited to deal with it."Symington gives Pietro a once up and down look.
"DO be careful, I would be very unhappy if anything were to happen to you. And upon our return I would like to hear a complete recounting of your adventures. DO try to pay attention to details, won't you? I would be most grateful." He says with a smile.
Pietro smiles shyly at the wizard's praise and he looks at his shoes. But he looks up, his brow furrowed with concern, when Smythe mentions "greater danger."
"Do you really think so?" His expression swirls, then lands in forced smile. " Well, then. Take care of yourself, Papa." (A common village term for any well-liked elderly man.) "And I'll try to remember everything for you."
On the beach,
Pietro spends the afternoon helping with the food and preparing for his journey tomorrow. He gathers and checks his gear. He greases the metal ways of his crossbow with a light layer of rendered fat and works wax into the bowstring. Everything is packed before he goes to the celebration.
It's easy to relax and forget about tomorrow's mission. The plentiful fresh food, the drink, the firelight and flashing smiles combine to create the most congenial atmosphere.
Even his father was unwinding a little tonight. Pietro smiled and exchanged looks with his sister when the pater familias stood and held his hand out to their mother. Once they were out among the dancers, Pietro and his siblings could even laugh in their wonder and delight.
Watching his parents caper and whirl among the dancers, Pietro thinks of his future -- and Astallia. Looking up he sees her across the way where her family was dining. Excusing himself from his siblings, he picked his way through the crowd toward her.
He missed her in the crowd. A light touch on his arm made him turn, and he was suddenly faced with the lovely smile of Astallia. The young woman was standing very close to him, he face turned up and a reflecting the glow of the fires in her cheeks and full lips. She leaned forwards and stood on tip toe as she whispered in his ear "It is so crowded here Pietro, come walk with me to somewhere quiet. I have something for you". Her eyes gleamed, the pupils very wide as she looked into his face.
Pietro smiled back. "Sure. Let's go." He took her by the hand and started walking toward the water's edge.
The Orc Caves
"It seems such a long time ago, Simington Smythe. But we came here at the request of the captain. When others went to the village and the searched for honey. The orcs ambushed us and Vik befriended them first and when we finally reached the cave, there was a meal and some talk. The orc shaman told us that the man we had set free, Rafiki, had the soul of an evil spirit, a bugbear. That spirit had taken hold on one of the strongest orcs and their village was in the hands of that evil. We attacked with the orcs and stopped the bugbear along a track, using magic to find the trail of its possession right back to the bugbear itself. There Bo-Dan and Vik put paid to the evil. You wanted details so I should mention that we had to defeat a carnivorous vine on our way to the bugbear."
Milhar smiles and turns back to his thoughts murmuring, "I know no more."
As Vik and Khraisi make as scene with their passionate farewell, Bo-Dan was suddenly reminded that, in her heartache over Paera, she had forgotten to speak to the Ulfen about the girl. Feeling somewhat guilty now, the young monk makes her way over to Khsimia, laying her hand on the concerned and disapproving mother's arm.
"Before you judge her too harshly Khsimia, please remember that you were once her age too, yes?" Waiting briefly for the woman's reaction, Bo-Dan continues. "As well, remember too that she has been through much these past few weeks, not the least of which being the loss of her father and her home. Vik is powerful and brave warrior and some of Khrasi's attraction to him may be a sense of safety he gives her. Finally, in the time I have come to know the Ulfen, although we may not see eye to eye on all matters, I believe him to be an honourable man, in his own manner, and I am sure we would not willfully harm your daughter in any way."
Sighing, Bo-Dan looks off in the distance as she finishes "We are, all of us, living day by day for the moment Khsimia, and all of us know that any day could be our last. So I beg you, do not chastise your daughter too harshly for her choice to drink the most of life while she can, for she may not ever have another chance."
As if suddenly realizing that she may allowed her own melancholy to overtake her again and gone too far, Bo-Dan squeezes Khsimia strongly, as she looks the woman in the eyes saying "Ah, I must beg your forgiveness Khsimia, I am sorry. My heart has been heavy of late and it was not my intention to give the impression of know hope. As I have sworn to you before, I swear to you now, with the last breath within me if necessary I shall do everything in my power to ensure that you and your daughters all have the chance to Love and Laugh and Live again Khsimia..."
Letting go of the woman's arm, Bo-Dan begins to move away, her last words barely as whisper as she continues "...even if you are the only ones who ever shall do so again..."
Sense Motive(with -2)
Algret's dwarven eyes take in every detail of th cave, as she watches Symington study the broken obelisk.
Symington listens intently to Milhar's recounting of the events with the bugbear, continuing to study the obelisk as he does so. He pauses, and turns partially towards Milhar.
"Let me make certain I understood you correctly. You located the bugbear, by following the mystic bond he was using upon the possessed ork, and he didn't notice?"
He purses his lips thoughtfully, raises an eyebrow, then gives a small nod.
"Ingenuous. Very clever, actually." He murmurs, turning back to the obelisk.
The Cave
The great pillars are made from obsidian, that much is abundantly clear to Symmington. Some tremendous force tore them asunder and creted the entrance for this cavern, which also seems to be lined with obsidain and other crystaline frms.
The runes themselves are glowing with distinct magic, elemental in nature. They're exact nature is determined for the wizard the moment Seraph goes to setlle upon them. A great sqwark of discomfort comes from the bird as a small spark discahrges into him. He quickly rises from the perch and circles the group in some discomfort. Electrical then.
The runes themselves are from a language Symmington cannot understand, the way in which they are carved and the geeral pattern of the words indicates they probably a channeling ward of some type. Definately these pillars are the focus of some channeling and binding spell, the centre of which lies somehwere in the cave.
As the wizard is completing this study, Skulhar makes one last comment to Milhar "Always it is family first human. I be back. Two days"
With that he turns and again disapears into the foliage of the jungle with unatural ease.
Algret is alerted suddenly by a sense of unease coming from Shale. The little doll is out of her pack, and her hands are pressed firmly to the ground. Moments later everyone feels the slight trmor in the ground below their feet. The runes glow somewhat dimmer.
The cave seems to end maybe 20 feet in but Algrets training and youth in caving tought her to look for unusal patterns in rock. The back ofteh cave is a false wall, overlaid obsidian sheets forming a partition that may have a small room or corridor leading further underground
The beach
Bo Dans conversation, late afternoon Khsimia looks at the half elf with some sadness in her eyes, but she nods her head at the young woman. "It is my youth that I am remembering when I look at my beautiful girl. What will I do when they both leave me?". For a moment she seems as if she will cry, but then she turns and moves back to the campsite to continue preparing for the evening feast.
Pietro and Astallia, night
Moonlight gleams of the bay, reflecting off the small waves as they ripple in to the shore line. The crunch of sand under their feet offsets the dimming sounds of the celebration behind them as the two young lovers walk away.
Astallia holds pietro's hand warmly in her own, a small smile playing across her lips. Eventually, at some signal only she can know, the lovely girl stops and turns towards the paladin. Her hands move up behind her neck and she briefly teases at the knot there. Finally she brings them forwards again and they hold the leather tie for the silver pendant she wears. "Back home, when two people wanted to announce they were together, gifts would be given. I have nothing more to offer than my mothers pendant Pietro." she pasues for a moment before continuing, her voice breathy and whisered "and myslef". She moves forwards, her head tilted up, eyes closed and lips slightly parted. Everything was perfect.....
Until Pietro was again assiled by that sense of evil in the water. Moving fast and heading towards the festivities. Many more this time.
Smythe chuckles at his familiar's avian tirade against the offending obelisk. "I told you to show some respect!" he chortles as the raven flaps overhead, venting it's frustration vocally.
"Well, the runes are evidentially charged with elemental energies," He begins, ignoring the increase in volume from Seraph at this observation of the obvious. "Judging by the presence of obsidian and other crystalline forms in the cave entrance, and the general pattern of the structures, I would hazard that these obelisks are foci for a channeling and binding enchantment, the center of which would be located in the cavern itself."
He turns to address his audience directly, and notices Algret and Shale, the little doll with it's hands on the ground. When the tremor hits, his head snaps around to see the glow of the runes grow dimmer.
"Well, It would seem the elderly Ork was not exaggerating about the duration of his protections. We can presume that he was not exaggerating the dangers either." He murmurs.
The beach
Pietro and Astallia, night
Moonlight gleams of the bay, ... Astallia holds Pietro's hand warmly in her own, a small smile playing across her lips. Eventually, at some signal only she can know, the lovely girl stops and turns towards the paladin.
Her words about "something for you" echo in Pietro's mind. "A sword," he thinks. "She's the hand of Iomedae and she's found me a sword to use on this mission."
Her hands move up behind her neck and she briefly teases at the knot there. Finally she brings them forwards again and they hold the leather tie for the silver pendant she wears. "Back home, when two people wanted to announce they were together, gifts would be given. I have nothing more to offer than my mothers pendant Pietro."
Pietro takes a long moment to register exactly what she's said.
she pauses for a moment before continuing, her voice breathy and whispered "and myself". She moves forwards, her head tilted up, eyes closed and lips slightly parted. Everything was perfect.....
Pietro drew her close. He was unsure of exactly what to say or do, or how to do it. She felt warm and soft in his arms. "Astallia, " he breathed.
Until Pietro was again assailed by that sense of evil in the water. Moving fast and heading towards the festivities. Many more this time.
Pietro's head snapped up and whipped sideways to look at the water. No visible sign of anything, but he could feel it, them coming. "We've got to get back. There's something coming. Something bad."
He pushed Astallia in front of him up the slope toward the camp. "Faster, we've got to run." He looked back over his shoulder at the black water behind them, half expecting to see something rising from the waves.
Back at the camp, Pietro looked for the captain, the big Ulfen mate, Bo-dan or Cynthia . I wish Smyjthe were here. He'd know what to do.
The Ork Caves
The last sight of the ork's back changes everything. Milhar turns and smiles, "I guess its time to go. These tremors mean that the sands are going to run out...soon. Please make any last preparations for going underground. I can provide some light."
Milhar lights the tip of his short sword and waves the point towards the caves.
"Let's go."
No worries Bo, I thought you might have had something for the gnome as well but will progress with the story tomorrow night. Intersting times ahead.
Bo-Dan does not realize she is staring at the new woman to join them until her friend, the ships Gnome, startles her somewhat as he speaks, suddenly at her side.
A trifle embarrassed, the Half-elf thinks for a moment of saying nothing, but as she realizes the very next moment that she truly does desire some company she replies
"Ah, Chistoff, good it is to see you my friend! I had not known if you would be leaving your ship or not. And yes, you are correct; there is...something about that woman there, the beautiful one in the leathers, yes her, which...I don't know...disturbs and confuses me somehow. But I cannot say exactly what it is."
Her face taking on a pallor of sadness then she finishes with "But perhaps it is just...other matters which are confusing my perceptions."
Perception