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Gelgish grimaced when the sage mentioned seeing the ruins. I lot of people apparently want into the ruins, but they ain't safe yet. I don't know anything about any Runelords but there was a lot of nasty critters down there. Any reason why that would fester down there right under a little town like this?
Nodding as Gelgish points out the lack of safety and safe measures. Chavana opens up some information as well.
"I agree about the safety, it's, frankly, not. I would be happy to help you and Father Zantus down there. We need to cleanse... something terrible down there. Some sort of summoning pool, which summons creatures the like of which I've never seen or even heard of! What would cause these creatures to still be alive after all this time? They most certainly weren't all undead. Are there any descriptions of terrible creatures used by the Runelords? Is there anything in particular about this 'Azlanist' that you can tell us?"
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The Bear offers a different point of view. "We cleared out most of it. Might be best to take him now, he might have insight into some of the things going on down there. Hell, maybe he can make some sense of what the half-elf was doing at the Glassworks along the way. Something makes me think it is all connected."
His shoulders slump a bit at mention that he can't go to the ruins now but he nods "Very well, a bargain then. You clean up the place and take me to it once it is safe, and I shall impart what knowledge I have to you now. It is a deal yes?" before waiting on an answer he moves his glasses up on his nose and begins to answer the various questions.
"So as I'm sure you all already know, this region used to be the seat of an extremely powerful ancient empire; Thassilon. While knowledge is scant many of us have researched this great society. From our understanding, do to infighting the empire tore itself apart and there was some great catastrophe which is the reason why information is so limited. Mostly what is left now are the occasional ruin, some artifacts and the occasional text."
He reaches down and pets his cat a moment then continues "As to Alaznist, the empire in the times before it's fall was rulled by seven Runelords, each associated with a different school of magic. The seven pointed star," he points to a book Alaznist is holding in the picture, much like the statue "is a symbol of these schools of magic and their interconnectedness. Wherever you see this symbol there is some relation to the ancient Thassilonian empire."
After he sets the book down he shurgs "Why these creatures have sustained for so long is beyond my knowledge. These Runelords were extremely powerful though so I would not be surpirsed if their magic had something to do with it. Though you mentioned a summoning pool. Perhaps something happened to activate the pool and bring the creatures here rather than them having been there the whole time?"
He runs his hand through his beard a few times then continues "As to the creatures, it is hard to say because I would imagine they had command over all sorts of beasts. However, one of the common creatures we see associated with the Runelords are Sinspawn. I have not seen one myself but I have seen reference to them. Basically creatures manifested of sin. You see the Runelords, they practiced sin magic or at least that is my theory. I don't really know the specifics but essentially each of the seven schools of magic corresponded to one of seven sins and each Runelord was a master of one of these schools. Of course, Thassilon didn't start out this way. There was an emperor that pre-dated the Runelords and he had originally focused on the seven vitures though, as with most things, these beliefs eventually became corrupted and lead to the Runelords." He tilts his head a bit, looking up at the ceiling and then scratches his head. "I think that answers all your questions."
"Actually, you mention sinspawn. We may have seen one of those, that may have been what was summoned, the creature doing the summoning placed a drop of blood into some sort of pool, and this creature crawled out."
She describes the creature the little flying menace summoned.
"Does this match your references to sinspawn, and would there be a way to deactivate such a summoning pool?"
After Chavana finishes her description he nods "Yes there very well could be a sinspawn. As I said I haven't seen any actual pictures but from the various references that sounds like an accurate description. As to the summoning pool, that far exceeds the limits of my knowledge. I could consolte with some peers in Magnimar on the matter however."
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Gelgish listened for a bit as Chavana and Quint spoke. Theory and Philosophy were lost on him though, and he tuned out until the conversation came back around to something tangible. Well, Sinspawn or no, we can take you down there when the time is right. Probably with Father Zantus since he wants to check it out too. The dwarf paused for a moment, before directing his next thoughts to his compatriots. Maybe next we need to talk to the Sheriff if he's back, and Ameiko. I dunno if the half-elf has anything to do with a old empire or Sinspawn or any of it, but we need to find that guy. Ameiko might know where he went.
"Agreed, Gelgy. Mr. Quint, I appreciate any information you can provide to help us with this. It is quite dangerous, and we want to make sure everyone in town stays safe. We truly appreciate your kindness in providing this information and we will be back to assist you in delving, as well as with Father Zantus, in the very near future."
You head back to the Rusty Dragon but Ameiko is still not around. Bethana, notes that she expects she is still at the family home and you could find her there if needed.
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Gelgish nodded to Bethana when the Halfling woman mentioned Ameiko's absence. Figures, no one wants to go to work after being kidnapped. Let's go to the manor and see if she's up to talking. The dwarf look over the still-battered half-orc. You, uh, probably should rest. I'm thinkin' we can talk to Ameiko without you. If we're heading back to that dungeon tomorrow we're gonna need you at full strength.
Heading off to the Lonjiku manor you knock and a young woman comes to the door "Hello, can I help you?"
The woman stands at the door tapping her fingers impatiently "I have other duties to attend to, if you just came to stand at the door and gawk you can be on your way."
"Greetings madam. We would like to see Ameiko please. Tell her it is the people who rescued her from the glass works. We only need a few moments of her time."
She nods and bows opening the door to let you into the foyer "Please have a seat"
Looking around the place is very well maintained and has a number of Tian themes thoughout the artwork and sculptures you can see. The large stain glass windows of the entry way illuminate the foyer with many different colors.
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Gelgish nodded and awkwardly stumbled into the manor house. Although he tried to keep his composure, he was clearly gawking. Even the casual observer could ascertain that the dwarf had never seen such luxury and exotic influences before. As the group waited for Ameiko's arrival, Gelgish fiddled with the chain on his weapon and seemed to be trying to look everywhere while feigning having no interest whatsoever.
"Thank you for your hospitality. We are terribly sorry for your loss. We will not to take much of either your or her time during this difficult time for your family."
Chavana bows her head in respect for what is likely to be a scene of mourning for the family and also trying to be respectful unknowing of their customs.
Ameiko comes out a few moments latter. You almost don't recognize her as she wears a flowing white silk gown, her hair is up in a bun and she walks into the hall. The walk really gives her away, she walks with a purpose not the kind of walk you would expect from a beautiful Tian women dressed in ceremonial garb.
Upon meeting your gaze she gives a slight nod "Welcome friends. I'm sorry to keep you waiting. There has been a lot to deal with. What can I help you with?"
"We come to offer our condolences regarding your father, Ameiko. I'm... sorry we couldn't do anything to help more."
Chavana begins, unsure of how her questions are going to unfold.
"We also have a couple of questions... about the other person, not a goblin, we saw in the glassworks. Can you help enlighten us to who that was and what they may want?"
Chavana is obviously uneasy... what with Ameiko looking so very nice, and this being much more ornate a mourning than she expected.
Looking around, Darpan can feel the calm and order that the position of the furniture and location of artworks has on the viewer. It reminds him a little of his old monastery, and a feeling of peace and calm enfold him as he waits or their host.
Ameiko bows her head in thanks for the condolences "Do not bare that weight. Even though the town considers you heroes I know you can only do so much. My father was..." she pauses for a moment to think of the best word "a difficult man sometimes, but he was well respected in this town and our family has done a lot to help Sandpoint grow. So I choose to honor the good he has done."
Upon Chavana's question Ameiko lets out a deep sigh and finds a seat herself. "That was my brother Tsuto. As to what he wanted, he revealed that he and several other mercenaries were led by Nualia and hinted that she’s got big plans for Sandpoint’s future. Tsuto warned me that I didn’t want to be in town when those plans came through, and offered me a chance to join his group at Thistletop. I recoiled at the suggestion and slapped him in shock that he’d sunk to such a low. He responded by unleashing his goblins on me and the overwhelmed me. The next thing I remember is you all coming and getting me out of there."
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Gelgish listened carefully as Ameiko described her interactions with this Tsuto. As he did, questions began to formulate in his mind. Uh, excuse me miss, did you say Nualia? Isn't that the young lady the priest said died? And, as for your brother...couldn't help but notice...he's a half-elf...you're a human...ermmm....and, uh, did Tsutu say anything about where he might be hidin' out?
Ameiko shrugs "Yeah it doesn't make a lot of sense. I wouldn't have thought that there had been any survivors. Though I suppose it is possible. I mean it would be really quite the coincidence if it happened to be someone with the same name."
She grins for just a brief second at the second part of the dwarfs questiong "Yes, quite observent of you. Almost all of the family issues we have had stem from that. My fathers rage at the discovery of our mothers indiscretion was the talk of the town for months. My mother never revealed who the father was, and it’s a testament to my fathers stubbornness that they remained married. Tsuto was handed over to the Turandarok Academy to be raised outside of the Kaijitsu family, ignored by our father and forbidden visits from our mother."
She shakes her head as she thinks back on it all "I started visiting him in secret once I learned about his existence at the age of 10, visiting him a few times a month to keep him company, bring him some food, and promise him that someday things would get all sorted out. That all changed in 4705, when we had a terrible argument in which Tsuto whacked me good. I left Sandpoint frustrated with my whole family, during which time I made a living as an adventurer."
She looks down at her gown where she is nervously fiddling with it "I returned to Sandpoint a year later to attend our mother’s funeral. Tsuto was quite public in his opinions that our father had pushed mother off a cliff to her death, and during the funeral there was a confrontation. Father nearly broke Tsuto’s jaw with his cane, after which Tsuto cursed him and left Sandpoint. I had tried to reestablish contact with him ever since, but was never able to track him down until I recieved that note the other night."
"I'm sorry for dragging out such terrible memories. I pray that you have hope for a brighter future. I can see the urge for revenge for a feeling of being slighted, but murder? What was your fight about right before you left Sandpoint?"
Chavana looks to Ameiko, frowning at the thought of dragging worse memories up of Ameiko's family.
"Mainly our family. I was trying to convince him that father would accept him one day, or at least tolerate him. We just had to work together to overcome his rage which I told him would dwindle over time. He disagreed, we started shouting and it came to blows. At that point, frankly I was sick of the whole situation so I decided to go off on my own. I would like still be adventuring if it hadn't been for my mothers death bringing me back home."
"you mentioned a place called Thistletop. Where is this? Do you think this is where we might find your brother and the girl? I am still confused as to why she would fake her death. And if she is alive, then who did the town bury?"
"Thistletop is to the north along the cost. I've heard it may have been a Thassilonian rune. I've never been there myself. However, since Tsuto specifically mentioned it I would image that might be where he went. Whether Nualia is there or not I couldn't say."
She shakes her head before continuing "I am just as confused about the potential of Nulia being alive."
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Gelgish lets his thoughts mull as the conversation continued. The suspicious side of his mind still wondered if it were possible that Ameiko was involved with this plot as well, but he saw no need to go down that road. At least yet.
The dwarf gave a grunt as Thistletop was mentioned. I've heard of that place before, not sure if I can place it though. Thinking some more he added after a pause, this Turandarok Academy, any reason to think Tsuto would go there? If no, then Thistletop's our only lead...'xceptin' of course the ruins under this town....probably ought to look at those more anyways.
Ameiko shakes her head to the dwarf "I doubt he would have went back to the Academy. Even more so I doubt Ilsoari would be hiding him out."
At the mention of ruins under the town Ameiko perks a bit in interest "What do you mean ruins under the town?"
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Dunno much about this academy, sounds like that's a dead end. But I remember about Thistletop. Shalelu and I had to deal with a gaggle of goblins from there once. It's an island just off shore to the north. Shaped like a big 'ol head too. Shalelu said somethin' about it being related to an ancient empire. Responding to Ameiko's question about the ruins he adds, yeah, we tried chasing your brother after he and some goblins attacked us in the glassworks. Found a set of tunnels, one that had been bricked up and then recently busted down. Anyway, we went in and found a bunch of monsters out of nightmares. Sometime we need to go back there and sort it out. The priest and that sage Quint wanna come too. The dwarf paused a bit before continuing. Ameiko, is there any possibility your brother had somethin' to do with the goblin attack on the town? Seems like he's taken up with the little bastards at Thistletop, and he had goblins with him at the Glassworks. I'm wonderin' if the tunnels we found gave the buggers a way in with Tsuto's help.
She sighs again "It's very likely, but I can't say for sure. I would think the same since, as you mentioned he was commanding a little troup of goblins."
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Gelgish grunted in concurrence with Ameiko's thoughts. Looking back at Darpan and Chavana he said, Sounds like we've got some goblins to visit. Anybody up for a trip to Thistletop? 'Fore that, we should take the priest and the sage on their little field trip to the ruins. The dwarf waits for a moment for any alternate opinions before sticking his wide brimmed hat back on his head and stuffing his already well-chewed cigar back in his mouth. Thank ya ma'am for the information. We'll be on our way. Gotta go wake up The Bear.
"Thank you, Ameiko, we really do appreciate your help. We'll have to talk about more pleasant things in the future, perhaps your exploits as an adventurer? Chavana says, trying to be more bright about the situation they are in. As she sees Gelgish leaving, she follows behind, smiling back at Darpan. "We really should be going to our room... errr... rooms.. Darpan, dear, at least to wake up Mr. Bear."
She hurries to catch up with Gelgish.
"Gelgy, I think we should wait at least one more day. We should probably sell some of the things we've found, and donate the rest if we can't sell it, this will give me time to heal Mr. Bear properly and give us time to make a plan other than 'barge in and kill everything.'" She thinks about that last part for a moment... "Although that plan does have some merit. We need Tsuto, and very likely Nualia as well to bring these pieces together. Goblins like fire... perhaps there are tunnels under their old home that have been unused... which poses a whole other threat for the town. We can investigate that today, and then go after the goblins tomorrow."
"A rest might be a very good idea. While not as injured as Ulrich, I could still do with a period of reflection and rest.
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Gelgish grunted in agreement with the priestess. Yeah, I didn't mean we wake him up right now. Just a figure o' speech. I don't need any patching up, so I can sell off whatever we have. After we split that up, I'll do some "reflection and rest" of my own. It involves ale.
Listening to Chavana's plan, he responded, I figure Tsuto skipped town. Maybe he's at Thistletop. Dunno. Tomorrow we can take the priest and Quint into the tunnels and search out the rest of that. The next day we can be off to Thistletop. But if you want help today lookin' into old tunnels...well, I'll help ya.
"Today's old tunnel day, but let's go check on Mr. Bear, first."
Chavana looks to Ameiko and says "Thank you again, Ameiko. We'll see you at the inn when you're ready."
She leaves with Gelgish and Darpan to head back to the inn to check on Ulrich.
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The Bear thanks Chavana for the additional healing, and his wounds have mostly stopped bleeding at this point and only a few bandages are necessary.
His musical Varasian accent seems less strained by pain as he says, We should sell the fancy polearm, but I plan to pick up a normal glaive in its place. Worked well at times. Might need to get some better armor eventually too. Maybe we'll find some more loot when we take the priest down there tomorrow.
Darpan refuses his share.
"Use the money to buy something for our group. I hear there are magical potions that have the ability to heal wounds. Perhaps the church has something like that we could purchase with a suitable donation."
"Darpan, while I may agree. I think we can divide this evenly over five shares. The fifth share, held in trust by myself and all of you, will be used for things we all can use. I plan on using some of this for a wand so we run out of healing abilities... less frequently. And potions, if I become incapacitated or worse, you will need the help. Darpan, if you'd like, I can hold onto your funds with the party funds, for now, but, if you'd need anything, we can seek it out and purchase it on your behalf."
Darpan nods his agreement and hands over his share to Chavana.
"My order, while not vowing poverty, always taught us to look beyond material gains and rewards for spiritual ones. Thank you for your offer and use the money if necessary to get this wand and potions. I am sure we will all benefit from them."
"I am also certain there are material goods that will help all of us attain our spiritual goals." Chavana says with a warm smile. "At least I hope there are a few of them. Come shopping with me this morning, Darpan. We'll have some fun."
Chavana takes Darpan here and there, obtaining the goods on her shopping list, stpping for a light lunch along the way. Once she is done at the temple (the last "shopping" portion of the trip) and she offers to bring Father Zantus to the ruins along with Quint to view the ruins, noting that it will not be entirely safe, but the possible gains outweigh many risks. She will also revisit Quint as well and offer the trip to the ruins.
Returning to the others, hopefully with Darpan not entirely bored out of his mind, she hands a potion of Cure Light Wounds to each party member, including herself 'just in case.'
At this point (mid-afternoon?), she will be ready to go to the ruins of Nualia's home, even if someone else has already rebuilt there.
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Gelgish set about selling the items the party had gathered, haggling as need be for the best price. Most were easily accomplished, though the dwarf did seem at least somewhat embarrassed about the black silk gown and tiara. After dividing up the spoils, Gelgish looked into Mithril armor and happily accepted the curative potion from Chavana.
All errands done, Gelgish nodded wordlessly when asked if he was ready to head out. He was keen to see where the old tunnels led.