The hour agreed upon by both Outcasts and the Lady Lashonna arrives. Each guest attires themselves as they see fit, and gather in the common room of the Angry Rifter, before departing.
Before exiting, Eidi finds himself taking the arm, not of Mortimer, but of a tall, gaunt half-orc. "This way. Your carriage awaits." He doesn't hesitate to lead the elderly half-elf towards a blackwood coach, rigged with four equally black horses. Eidi has no trouble keeping up with the half-orc, who walks with a limp.
The half-orc is definitely Charmed, at present.
Assisting each of you into the cabin, he watches intently to make sure everyone is seated, before closing the coach door, and rocking up and onto the driver's bench. The horses begin to pull more smoothly than the trolls the night before, and you're transported to Mistwall Manor in a matter of minutes.
The carriage comes to a stop at the gatehouse, long enough for a smiling Larson to take a cursory glance inside the cabin. "Hey, well done, you all. You must have impressed them all at the Banquet, eh? Enjoy your dinner with our Lady." Larson steps back, and nods to the half-orc. "Alright, Kelgorn. You take these fine folk up to the Manor, without further delay! Wouldn't want to keep the Lady waiting."
The half-orc snorts from his place on high, and the carriage comes to life again, pulling you past the outer wall. Kelgorn opens the door, and escorts you from the carriage. The gaunt half-orc hands the reins of the horses to a stable hand, while wordlessly encouraging you to follow him.
Mistwall Manor is quite the sight. A smaller, but better executed version of Zeech's Palace, you are greeted by a luxurious courtyard. The stone arches are completely covered with foliage, and a crystal clear reflection pool with a short, wide waterfall occupies the central square footage up to the front wall. Two side staircases welcome you up to the front doors.
Entering the front doors, you continue to follow Kelgorn. Immediately upwards, along a private spiral staircase, you find yourselves entering a private study and reading room.
The walls of this spacious, tastefully decorated study are filled with shelves of leatherbound tomes on a wide variety of topics. A large desk sits against the far wall, its surface empty save for a stack of tattered pieces of yellowed paper. The carpet is a deep shade of crimson, and arrayed on it in a semicircle before the desk are several high-backed chairs fitted with velvet cushions.
Lashonna waits here, wrapped in a gold-trimmed gown of the very latest fashion and cut to accentuate her near-perfect figure. A delighted smile dances upon her scarlet lips before she dismisses her manservant. “You won’t be needed any longer, Kelgorn, I’m sure I’ll be quite well attended to, with such pleasing guests to keep me company. Good night.” The half-orc withdraws with a stiff bow as Lashonna gestures to the chairs before her desk.
"I feel quite giddy, having you all to myself like this. Artists and Outcasts, victors of the Gauntlet of Asmodeus, and the Life of the Anniversary Banquet." She smiles at each of you.
"Now, let's talk like old friends. You flatter me by informing me of what might be mutual business interests. Please speak freely. You cannot offend me, and I hope I won't in turn offend you."
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Somewhat miffed that he has been replaced by a bipedal dire boar, Mortimer shrugs and dourly follows the others to the carriage. Checking any attempt at assistance into the coach with a steady stare at Kelgorn, Mortimer steps into the cabin on his own power and takes a seat.
As soon as the coach door is closed and the dire boar clambers into the driver's bench, Mortimer mutters, "Remember Mariss? This guy is nothing like him. Better mannered and less chatty. I guess he's the tall, quiet, charmed type."
The beauty of Lashonna's courtyard softens his mood, and he follows the others through the grounds and into the manor, finding the spiral staircase uncomfortably narrow for his stature.
It'd be easier and more direct to spider climb the walls.
Nonetheless, he endures the stairs without cracking the potion.
He bows to Lashonna as he enters the private study, feeling quite awkward and out of place in such a fancy room. This is worse than Eligos' foyer. He casts about the floor timidly. Are there skunks here, too? ... Nah, can't be. It's too snug, warm and clean. The lady would never keep such a vile creature... would she?
He eyes the high back chairs in disbelief. They're for sitting? He quickly tests one by bouncing his knee into a velvet cushion. When it retains its shape, he inhales deeply and slowly settles into one.
He silently engages auto pilot, striving to cope with small talk while trying to keep still so as not to break anything.
"I feel quite giddy, having you all to myself like this."Yes, 'giddy'. That's what this feeling is... taking great pleasure in doing something you shouldn't be doing and getting away with it. Having you, to all four of ourselves like this.
"Artists and Outcasts ... and the Life of the Anniversary Banquet."
Mortimer cringes at the mention of The Banquet, having spent the last day trying to forget the whole sordid affair. Considering Lashonna's words, his expression melts into slight confusion. What did we do to make her so giddy? I guess that annual event is something of a bore for her usually?
He draws himself up to his full height in his chair and tries to look strong and silent.
"Now, let's talk like old friends."
Having been around long enough to remember by now that he is not the best conversationalist, Mortimer waits for someone else to speak lest he try the Lady's patience. He takes the room in while listening.
As soon as the coach door is closed and the dire boar clambers into the driver's bench, Mortimer mutters, "Remember Mariss? This guy is nothing like him. Better mannered and less chatty. I guess he's the tall, quiet, charmed type."
Ascaria is surprised by Mort’s pronouncement and he looks up at the ceiling of the coach, as if he could somehow see through it to the man beyond. He considers trying to drop the glamor, but perhaps it’s there for a reason. Worrying about being overheard, he keeps his thoughts to himself on that score, and chatters idly about the ride and their anticipated dinner.
“I feel quite giddy, having you all to myself like this. Artists and Outcasts, victors of the Gauntlet of Asmodeus, and the Life of the Anniversary Banquet.” She smiles at each of you.
”Now, let's talk like old friends. You flatter me by informing me of what might be mutual business interests. Please speak freely. You cannot offend me, and I hope I won't in turn offend you.”
”Oh, my lady, you are too kind. We are but rough and tumble adventurers, scarcely worthy of your charms.” he chuckles warmly. He considers various approaches, and wonders what he should say.
In the end, he takes her at her word, and tries a most direct approach. ”We are here, my lady, to combat the very same cult that Zeech claims to have all but wiped out, apparently with your assistance. We have found evidence that the cult is ongoing locally, despite your work, or perhaps has merely rebuilt. We hope that you will aid us in this work - though not in the field! Certainly not. No, simply by answering a few pointed questions, you’d help us greatly in our task.”
Eidi is happy to lean over Kelgorn's arm and quietly observes the city to pass while he thinks on the recent revelations and his conversation with Manzorian.
The half-elf thoughts diverts when Mortimer reveals his observations about the half-orc. He stretches his eyes and observes more carefully.
When the Outcasts arrives to the meeting room the elder takes sit among the cushions of his chair. Eidi admires Lashonna's silhouette and marvels himself at the cared hairstyle of the elven woman.
Mostly muted by the view the elder only reacts once Ascaria reacts to the conversation. Eidi nods being certain "It would be certainly useful for our business to know what happened at that time with the cult"
An impressive collection of tomes fills the bookshelves of this Study. Titles such as Teobaldik’s Necrologicon, Forma Pelluriana, Principia Velenosa... it goes on and on. Several books are non-descript, while others are gilded in silver and/or gold. Plenty of inkwells, quills, and plain parchment remain nearby a writing table, and a scattered stack of older parchment sits on the desk at the back wall, clearly the recent attention. Nothing strange strikes you about the walls, or the floor, for that matter.
”We are here, my lady, to combat the very same cult that Zeech claims to have all but wiped out, apparently with your assistance. We have found evidence that the cult is ongoing locally, despite your work, or perhaps has merely rebuilt. We hope that you will aid us in this work - though not in the field! Certainly not. No, simply by answering a few pointed questions, you’d help us greatly in our task.”
"It would be certainly useful for our business to know what happened at that time with the cult."
Lashonna listens with a keen interest in what Ascaria and Eidi have to say, looking at both Mortimer and Solrisa for further signs of introductory conversation. Sensing that the gnome and the half-elf spearhead the petition, the graceful elf tilts her head, thoughtfully.
She stands, and collects a scattered stack of older parchment, bringing it to Ascaria first, though her gesture indicates that she's interested to see each of you review the writings.
"Balakarde’s Journal, or what’s left of it, in any event. You’ll see he’s quite mad. Obsessed, the poor dear, and with worms no less. Tiresome. But please, look it over, and then we can talk.”
"It is as I suspected. It has a name- Dragotha. An undead dragon, if the accounts are true, an ancient thing of fifteen centuries. It is the Herald of Kyuss. The Wormgod granted it unlife, after it was slain by Tiamat. The simple act of transporting the Monolith from Kuluth Mar to its lair in the Rift Canyon secured its fate, being bound to Kyuss eternally."
...
"The Rite they performed obscured all thought, all history, all sight... of the phylactery, as if it never existed at all. But those of the Order of the Storm were no fools. They suspected rightly that Kyuss would one day rise again, and that his worms would learn to walk again."
...
"It has been quiet for several ages. Without knowledge of his phylactery, Dragotha was left a coward. But he grows restless. If his will is strong enough, he will stir from his own long sleep, to awaken Kyuss from his. Why now?"
...
"I must confront the dracolich myself. Into the Wormcrawl Fissure, a journey that must be completed. I fear what will befall Golarion, should I fail..."
Lashonna sits quietly, as those who take interest in reading are given time to do so. She looks to those currently not reading with an inquisitive look, should questions unrelated to the Journal be forthcoming.
Mortimer turns from a glance at a scattered stack of older parchment sitting on the desk at the back wall as Eidi and Ascaria finish speaking. "Just then, but now," he begins, stammering a little. "Um, we have seen many evidence of the Cult, not just here. We've been under Diamond Lake, we saw Cult things there... and wormy things near Blackwall Keep -- a dragon, sabotaging LizardFolk nurseries -- using their eggs for spreading the worms!" he points to his headband of the LizardHood before continuing.
He scowls shuddering at the memory of wormy infestations. "Anyway, yes. We've come to figure out what was missed, to pick up where Balakarde left off, and purge the Cult from Golorian once and for all," he concludes simply, as if it were all in a day's job.
"Balakarde’s Journal, or what’s left of it, in any event. You’ll see he’s quite mad. Obsessed, the poor dear, and with worms no less. Tiresome. But please, look it over, and then we can talk.”
Mortimer looks at Lashonna curiously. Balakarde? Crazy? Tiresome?
Mortimer nimbly rises from his seat and moves to Ascaria to look over his shoulder at Balakarde's journal.
-- "'Dragotha'! Didn't Ilthane mention a 'Dragotha'?"
-- "'Order of the Storm'," Mortimer blurts out (likely much to the annoyance of others trying to read), while reading the second passage. "Who is that?" The Wind Dukes seemed partial to lightning. "Oh, look -- " he says, pointing to the second part of the passage. "'Kyuss would one day rise again, and that his worms would learn to walk again,' -- sounds like something we found in the Urgathoa Lair under Diamond Lake..."
-- Mortimer scratches his head at the third passage. "What is a 'phylactery'?"
-- He reads the last passage silently, looking completely lost. Does it mean the strange space above the Ziggurat we destroyed?
He turns to Lady Lashonna. "My Lady," he says, bowing, "Balakarde has gone into the 'Wormcrawl Fissure'?! Well, that does sound obsessive crazy. Does that even refer to anything in reality?
Ascaria reads along and nods at Mort’s helpful interruptions. ”Yeah, the Wormcrawl Fissure sounds like just the sort of place we need to go before we’re done.” Ascaria agrees, ”If it’s a real place.”
He also wonders what he knows of dracoliches generally and their phylactery specifically.
Knowing little he makes no comment and instead turns to the lady, ”Thanks for this Lashonna, we appreciate it. How did you come by this?”
"Dragotha... I wonder if it has something to do with the acidwraith we found before..." Eidi turns to Mortimer in order to explain "The phylactery is a magical receptacle where powerful wizards secure their souls before converting into liches. Horror and powerful wizard undeads. Might Dragotha be trying to bring back Kyuss?"
The half-elf re-reads the notes once more "The Wormcrawl Fissure..."
"Do you know if Beledarke made his travel or what has been of him? He has been lost for a time now..." the elder looks back at Lashonna, his face once more softens.
Solrisa smiles and coos at Lady Lashonna, happy to have the chance to meet such an elegant lady. She blushes at the Lady’s recounting and flushing her role as an Outcast & Artist, but mostly keeps quiet as people discuss serious things.
”Lady Lashonna, how long have you lived in this City? Why do you choose to live here and no someplace...more...uh...different?” Solrisa asks, wondering. ”Do you travel much? Where else do you like to go? To the North!? That’s my favorite direction.” Solrisa has a few questions for when conversations slows and between nibbles of food.
"Anyway, yes. We've come to figure out what was missed, to pick up where Balakarde left off, and purge the Cult from Golarion once and for all... My Lady, Balakarde has gone into the 'Wormcrawl Fissure'?! Well, that does sound obsessive crazy. Does that even refer to anything in reality?"
"Yeah, the Wormcrawl Fissure sounds like just the sort of place we need to go before we’re done. If it’s a real place.”
"Well, Balakarde certainly believed the place exists."
Her pity for Balakarde is quite obvious.
"Thanks for this, Lashonna, we appreciate it. How did you come by this?”
"He left it with me, sixteen years ago. I assume he meant to come back for it, but he never did. It’s taken a beating in those sixteen years, but I’ve managed to preserve the key parts of its contents at least.”
The Wormcrawl Fissure is located somewhere within the Rift Canyon, which itself is located within the Mindspin Mountain Range, to the northeast, roughly 500 miles. The border between Varisia and the Hold of Belkzen is the most likely location, where fearsome giants, ogres, trolls roam, keeping the spine of mountains as an effective wall between the nations.
"Do you know if Beledarke made his travel or what has been of him? He has been lost for a time now..."
"I'm afraid I don't. Sixteen years is certainly a long time, and Balakarde wasn't a young man when he visited me."
"Lady Lashonna, how long have you lived in this City? Why do you choose to live here and no someplace...more...uh...different? Do you travel much? Where else do you like to go? To the North!? That’s my favorite direction.”
The elf considers the spotty questions from the maiden, in the moments during which they arise. "I've grown quite comfortable in Alhaster, with all of its idiosyncrasies... The Banquet reminds me that I've lived here for several decades... I do enjoy travels to the north, yes..."
Lashonna's eyes twinkle with interest as she answers questions for questions.
"You found activity of the Ebon Triad locally, still? Do tell."
"You visited Mistwall the day you arrived in Alhaster, am I correct? Are these questions of yours unchanged since your arrival?"
"Are you friends of Balakarde? It sounds like you are just as committed to preventing this 'Age of Worms' as he was. Would you like to know what I think?" Lashonna gives you the courtesy of direct looks, not really expecting someone to be so rude as to refuse the Lady of the Manor her personal reflections.
"It seems likely that this Dragotha intends to release Kyuss from his prison. The solution seems obvious. A king without his commander is powerless. It’s taken Dragotha nearly 1,500 years to reach this point. Remove him now, and it will certainly be centuries before anything has a chance to release the Wormgod again."
Lashonna moves to a side table, and pours herself a goblet of wine, offering you the same quench, should you accept a glass yourselves.
"Of course, one cannot simply waltz into a lich’s lair, kill him, and be done with it. Dragotha may not know where his phylactery is, but that doesn’t mean it’s useless to him. Destroying him before you destroy his phylactery is as good as finding it and handing it over to him. So your first order of business should be to find his phylactery and destroy it. And that’s where it gets complicated."
Lashonna sips to refresh her vocal chords. "I have no idea where it may be hidden. Obviously, neither does Dragotha, and that’s a good thing. Certainly, his doubt to its location is the main reason he hasn’t tried to simply destroy himself as a desperate way to discover its location. Balakarde left for the Wormcrawl Fissure, against my advice, intending to learn more about Dragotha. He never returned, but at least he had the foresight to leave his journal fragments with me. His journal and his disappearance have become something of a focus of mine, I must confess. I’ve spent the last sixteen years, on and off, studying the lore of Kyuss, of Dragotha, and associated matters. And while I haven’t managed to determine where Dragotha’s phylactery is hidden, I do believe I know where that information might be found."
“As Balakarde mentions in his journal, the Age of Worms and Kyuss’ resurrection were stopped fifteen centuries ago by the Order of the Storm. Historians believe that the Order died out not long after this victory, hunted down and destroyed by the last surviving members of the cult of Kyuss. These records are incorrect. The Order instead retreated to their stronghold on a remote island called Tilagos. On this island there is a Library of sorts, a repository of the Order’s lore. It has been sought for centuries by wizards, scholars, and explorers, for it is said to be filled with hundreds of years of history, memories,
dreams, and of course secrets." The elf looks into her goblet for a moment, before continuing.
"Secrets are so valuable aren’t they, my darlings? Seems the longer they are kept, the more they’re worth. If a written account of the secret of what happened to Dragotha’s phylactery exists, it must certainly be there. Of course, there are complications— there always are, right? Before they built this Library, the Order of the Storm drove a lasting bargain with primal elemental forces. They sacrificed their lives to whisk the island’s interior off the Material Plane. In its place is a barren rock surrounded by an ever-raging storm of such intensity that ships that approach within ten miles are invariably lost. The island itself appears on no maps, but the stories hint that the druids left a way for those in need to reach their secrets while at the same time warding the place away from the prying eyes of Kyuss’ undead fanatics. Worse, I’m afraid others have learned this as well, in part as an unfortunate result of my own research." A genuine look of disappointment crosses her face.
"I have a fair amount of competition in the arena of gathering and keeping secrets, and invariably word gets out that I’ve made a discovery. My enemies are always quick to nip at my heals. I speak, in particular, of a simpering dog of a man named Heskin who once served me. I’m afraid Heskin has been wooed from my side with promises of wealth and power, and has taken word of this discovery to a disreputable man indeed, a powerful priest of a forgotten god called Vecna, named Darl Quethos."
Lady Lashonna drinks deeply of her wine, giving the Outcasts a chance to absorb her quite lengthy discourse.
”Sixteen years.” Ascaria whistles low. ”That’s a long time for this to be simmering.” He wonders just how far behind they are.
"You found activity of the Ebon Triad locally, still? Do tell."
”Well, there was a black dragon just outside of town that we believe was working with the Triad, and then there’s the unholy horror® underneath the sick-house. It was waiting, but we’re not sure for what signal or when. It was definitely part of the cult. Nasty stuff.”
"Are you friends of Balakarde? It sounds like you are just as committed to preventing this 'Age of Worms' as he was. Would you like to know what I think?" Lashonna gives you the courtesy of direct looks, not really expecting someone to be so rude as to refuse the Lady of the Manor her personal reflections.
Ascaria nods and listens intently as she breaks the story down. When it’s clear she has finished, he nods. ”So you want us to take care of this man Heskin, and his mentor Darlin Quethos in exchange for your support in this endeavor? And of course beat them to the library. That’s our clear goal in all this.”
He mulls it over in his mind a bit, but there is really only one clear path here for the righteous. ”Of course we’ll do it. We just need to know what you know about the secret island. Oh, and how long ago did Heskin go rogue? How far ahead of us are they?”
Eidi nods confirming Ascaria's information about their findings "Well... and we also found Loris Raknian recent death as a spawn of Kyuss... and... what is more worrisome, the reunification of a tripartite spirit, an Overlord of the Ebon Triad" the last words of the Overlord still booming into his head Your Mother Maggot... her real... name... is...
"The ancient library of Tilagos..." the half-elf sinks his face behind one of the cups of wine, although he does not drink preferring to wait for the milk, I really want to trust you Lashonna, daring creature, but what you tell us...
"Sixteen years is certainly a long time... why have you not attempted to visit the library yourself?" the elder looks attentively at her elven eyes "How comes you are so sure Dragotha has not found his phylactery yet?"
"Well, Balakarde certainly believed the place exists."
Mortimer's heart sinks, and he looks away heart-broken. Oh, ohhhhh. I feel really bad now. It's as if I just poked an old wound."
"You found activity of the Ebon Triad locally, still? Do tell."
”Well, there was a black dragon ... there’s the unholy horror® underneath the sick-house ... "
"the acidwraith we found before..."
"It's as if -- ever since we left Diamond Lake every step of the way we've encountered some culty spiritual manifestation of -- the worst Evil you can imagine. And we're always at least one step behind it all."
"You visited Mistwall the day you arrived in Alhaster, am I correct? Are these questions of yours unchanged since your arrival?"
Mortimer shrugs. "No, I'm sure they evolved since then. Back then we were probably wondering 'What's with all the batmen/weird angels and crows around this city?' and something about black dragons on Traitors' Island -- like 'Why?' and 'what's happening under this city' and 'how did Barlekarde come to know the beautiful Lady Loshanna' and 'why did she settle here' and 'what exactly is your relationship with Zeech?'"
He pauses for a moment, then feeling the need to justify himself he adds, "I mean -- he does have this portrait of you in his dining room, and well... well -- that was unexpected but ... nevermind."
He listens to the Lady in rapt attention.
"All of those questions, we had, yes." he says softly. "But mostly -- what do we need to do -- but I guess finding Heskin will lead us to what we need to do to defeat the worms. I think we'd probably know if Dragotha found his phylactery --right? All of reality would shatter, or something. Still, it's been a long time... but probably not in draco-lich years."
"Well... and we also found Loris Raknian recent death as a spawn of Kyuss...
"And, uh -- the thing about Loris now being a spawn of Kyuss is new to me. I'm not surprised, mind you. Being with Kendra who was with Thedrick -- then the wormy humanoid in the Cult Mines, he kind of reeked of it from the beginning."
Solrisa smiles and nods as is she follows all the talk of names and places, nodding her head sometimes when appropriate, sometimes when not, but trying very hard to be a delightful dinner guest.
"...yes, of course we need to stop all the spawn of Kyuss and all the rest of the evil things."
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"So you want us to take care of this man Heskin, and his mentor Darlin Quethos in exchange for your support in this endeavor? And of course beat them to the library. That’s our clear goal in all this... Of course we’ll do it. We just need to know what you know about the secret island. Oh, and how long ago did Heskin go rogue? How far ahead of us are they?”
"Heskin departed one month ago from his employ in Mistwall. Quite the polyglot, that one. The stories he could relate were endless. I was disappointed to lose him, if I'm being honest. Take care of him? That sounds rather ominous, Ascaria. I'm merely informing you that you share a goal with those who might find your mutual interest undesirable. Tilagos Island is roughly one hundred miles west of Alhaster, if the stories are to be believed. Given the twenty-mile radius of the raging storm, I suspect it will stand out like a blackness in a rainbow."
"Sixteen years is certainly a long time... why have you not attempted to visit the library yourself? How comes you are so sure Dragotha has not found his phylactery yet?"
Lashonna turns to look upon Eidi. "An undead dragon with unerring knowledge of its own phylactery, and malintent, would be an overly confident thing, don't you agree? It feels, to me, that Dragotha would be a more widely-known horror, were that the case."
Kelgorn returns, and announces that dinner is ready.
"Wonderful! Oh, we shall dine properly this evening. Let's continue this conversation over still-warm plates."
Lashonna seems genuine in her responses, thus far.
The half-orc is easy enough to follow, with his very deliberate gait. Down a deeply-carpeted hallway, you make your way down another set of broader stone stairs, arriving in short order in an intimate dining room. Natural candlelight abounds, and several serving dishes sit covered, welcoming you to serve yourselves. The spirits bar lacks for nothing, but it does require you to cross the room to pour your own.
"Please help yourselves. If you desire something more to your tastes, do let me know. Solrisa, the spit is keeping your ham warm." The Lady Lashonna helps herself to a couple of roast beef slices, and pan-seared cherry tomatoes.
"Now, where were we? Ah, yes. Eidi, you asked why I haven't ventured to Tilagos myself. I am not suited to such travel. Risk-adverse. I did suggest to Prince Zeech that he might undertake such a quest, but he has been largely fixated on his Grand Project. He has been quite the strong arm against the heretics, especially when guided by my intelligence."
"All of those questions, we had, yes... But mostly -- what do we need to do -- but I guess finding Heskin will lead us to what we need to do to defeat the worms. I think we'd probably know if Dragotha found his phylactery --right? All of reality would shatter, or something. Still, it's been a long time... but probably not in draco-lich years."
Lashonna's eyes sparkle at Mortimer's words. "Would you like to set eyes on Heskin, yourselves? I have just the thing. Let's not get ahead of ourselves, and ruin a beautiful dinner. Please, while the food is warm, let's enjoy each others' company."
"...yes, of course we need to stop all the spawn of Kyuss and all the rest of the evil things."
Lashonna nods. "Better not to do such things on an empty stomach."
With those words uttered, the night drifts into a bacchanal of bisque, breads, butter, beans, brisket, brussel sprouts, baked potatoes, braised pork, bass, brie, bacon... and that's just the food items that begin with a...
When the dinner has concluded, Lashonna escorts you back to her Study, where she produces a silver cigarette compact from her desk, along with a scroll. Opening the compact, she plucks several blond hairs and holds it up to you all. "Hair of Heskin." She proceeds to cast the spell from the scroll, which is recognizable to Eidi as Greater Scrying.
A misty curtain appears in the air in front of you, and you begin to observe the scene unfolding within it. The sound of a howling tempest assails the entire room.
"Oh my." Lady Lashonna turns to look for your reactions.
The animated, rotting hand is something known as the Hand of Vecna, a dreadful artifact, cold to the touch, capable of powerful spells, granting its bearer supernatural strength. And, yes, it's a Left Hand. Glad you asked.
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"...why I haven't ventured to Tilagos myself. I am not suited to such travel. Risk-adverse. I did suggest to Prince Zeech that he might undertake such a quest, but he has been largely fixated on his Grand Project. He has been quite the strong arm against the heretics, especially when guided by my intelligence."
"I can only find it curious that a grandiose personality as the Son of Asmodeous would be that kin to be directed by a different Intelligence than his own" Eidi picks up some cherry tomatoes himself and eat them whole, one by one "And that Grand Project of him, what is that? Is it some kind of Spire? The Long Shadows it casts are most worrying don't you find?" the half-elf chews a slice of beef and soothes his beard "Oh, well, maybe the project is part of your guiding, in that case I am pretty sure it's a plan of an enlightening scheme" the elder looks at the elven woman with sad eyes.
----------------
"Mmm... it seems you will not have to care more about the traitor. Vecna has him now" Eidi messes up his beard while he leaves time for others to share their impressions before finally adding "I do not know what role did Heskin play on your plans to find your way into the island. You cited before the druids left a way into. As it seems that knowledge was at Heskin hands. I guess that means you have this knowledge yourself. Well... then... how do we reach Tilagos?"
Ascaria follows along into the dining room. Large house, he thinks as he surveys what he can see of it. He helps himself to a bit of this and that for supper, paying more attention to their host than what he’s eating. Before he takes a bite though, he does check his food for poison and disease, as well as his allies just out of habit - and because he doesn’t really trust Lady Lashonna. Not entirely.
When she pulls out the scroll and reads it, he hesitates, and then follows along. He knows he’ll have this spell soon, so he’s interested in seeing how it works. He watches the scene play out in rapt attention and he’s a bit bewildered by it when it’s over. ”I’m confused, why was he tied up? Those others didn’t look too friendly to me - not allies of his certainly.”
He turns to the lady, ”You said he left your service to pursue a lead. Are you sure he did so willingly? After all, charm and compulsion seem commonplace around here.”
He also awaits the answer to Eidi’s question, as that is one he’s asked already in a slightly different way without success.
"Solrisa, the spit is keeping your ham warm."
Solrisa follows the lady to the ham spit, and hacks off an equal (and then some) measure of the meats, trying to taste and eat what the Lady eats, so she might share in the experience as the Lady experiences it.
Know (religion)
"OH HESKIN! LOOK OUT!" Solrisa cries out, trying to offer warning, but it is too late. Also, he probably can't hear from this distance, but Solrisa tried. "WATCH OUT FOR THE HAND! BAD TOUCHING!"
Solrisa draws her sword and wonders if she can jump through to help...but then it's gone and she looks around.
"That hand! That was a very bad hand!" She looks around to see if others share her concern.
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Mortimer continues to listen in rapt attention as the Lady speaks about Heskin, and drifts after her voice as if in a dream.
"[ phylactery + Dragotha = viral ]"
Wait -- isn't that what I said -- did I get that idea from her, or did she get that idea from me? Mortimer nods in wonderment.
Upon seeing all of the food and drink in the dining room, Mortimer freezes awestruck by the aromas and warm ambiance.
Does she eat like this all the time?
Mortimer gets in lines behind the others, looking over the various savory delectables worthy enough to be placed upon his plate. Some romaine, grilled steak and onions, grilled bell pepper strips, cheese and a bit rustic bread garnished with some pickles and olives win round one.
Mortimer waits until he thinks no one is looking.
Something's not right, here.
He starts stacking the lettuce, meat, peppers, onions and cheese onto one piece of bread, and places the other piece on the top. He stands for a moment holding the food art, staring at it considering.
Too bad I can't grapple it. This would be fantastic toasted.
He puts the carefully crafted comestible on his plate, secures it with some toothpicks and helps himself to a pale hoppy ale.
He glances at Ascaria as he places his drink on the table.
It's been awhile since I had beer...
" [ .. ] Risk-adverse. I did suggest to Prince Zeech that he might undertake such a quest, but he has been largely fixated on his Grand Project. He has been quite the strong arm against the heretics, especially when guided by my intelligence.""I can only find it curious that a grandiose personality as the Son of Asmodeus would be that kin to be directed by a different Intelligence than his own"
Mortimer chokes down a huge bite of his Smithwich before speaking, so as not to have a mouth full of food. "Do you mean..." he says slowly, trying to let the conversation sink in to his skull. "... that the Prince won't listen to his father, or that he just otherwise doesn't care that much about the heretics, or both?"
~~~
Hair of Heskin
"Oh my."
Mortimer shrieks in unison with Solrisa as the blue-robed man assaults Heskin. "NOooo! But ..." now what?" Wondering about the timing of dinner and the casting of the spell, he glances at Lashonna with heartbroken suspicion. "Did you know that was going to happen?!"
He nods when Eidi and Ascaria speak, and waits for answers.
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"I can only find it curious that a grandiose personality as the Son of Asmodeous would be that kin to be directed by a different Intelligence than his own. And that Grand Project of him, what is that? Is it some kind of Spire? The Long Shadows it casts are most worrying don't you find? Oh, well, maybe the project is part of your guiding, in that case I am pretty sure it's a plan of an enlightening scheme."
"Do you mean... that the Prince won't listen to his father, or that he just otherwise doesn't care that much about the heretics, or both?"
Lashonna looks towards Eidi, where she senses the question is being applied, not wanting to step on the elder's answer. When he's finished, had he even started, the Lady answers Eidi.
"Have you forgotten what it's like to be a virile man, master Eidi? Or do you prefer men over women? Like Mortimer said, Zeech has been infatuated with me for years. Some say the Grand Project is being built in my honor, though the Prince has not said that to me. I certainly didn't inspire its erection. It is a waste of resources, both financial and human, and I have discouraged the Prince, to no avail." The Lady turns to Mortimer. "I did ask that he take down that portrait, but he continues to ignore my requests."
Turning back to Eidi, the Lady continues. "The time wasted on the Spire is concerning, yes. Especially when you speak on Triad activity, where we thought it had been eradicated."
"You said he left your service to pursue a lead. Are you sure he did so willingly? After all, charm and compulsion seem commonplace around here.”
"Very observant of you, master Ascaria. Kelgorn is one of only a few of my employed that I feel the need to supervise, when he needs to fit in, societal demands, and all. Heskin, on the other hand, was always at my heels, by his own volition. I'm sure they are very pretty heels, but it obviously proved insufficient to maintain the man's loyalty. Had I treated Heskin like I treat Kelgorn, you may be assured I wouldn't have lost him to the competition."
"Did you know that was going to happen?!"
Lashonna turns towards the giant, a light look of offense on her beautiful features. "I did not, Mortimer. How could I know Darl's mind? That he valued life so little as to snuff it the moment he felt our intrusion? Poor Heskin. No one deserves such a fate." The Lady's eyes bow reverentially to the floor.
"I do not know what role did Heskin play on your plans to find your way into the island. You cited before the druids left a way into. As it seems that knowledge was at Heskin hands. I guess that means you have this knowledge yourself. Well... then... how do we reach Tilagos?"
Eidi's petition brings the Lady's eyes from the floor to gaze upon the half-elf. "Well, as I said, Tilagos Island is roughly 100 miles west from here." Lashonna moves to the table, and looks through a couple of ancient maps, producing the one she needs. "Here. There is likely ample distance from the coast, as it doesn't interrupt sea lanes, so somewhere between twenty and fifty miles offshore? As for traveling there, I'm sure you're up to the task. Darl decided on a ship, for reasons of his own. You didn't arrive by ship in Alhaster, how do you regularly travel?"
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Eidi giggles nervously as Lashonna confront his words, a powerful woman indeed "Now... that has sense I guess... it is known men with manhood problems like to build high up towers"
---------------------------
The half-elf bends to examine properly the map, trying to quickly take an exact mental copy in his head "Aham... so 100 miles west of Alhaster. Well... we have sometimes traveled by horse, but I guess nowadays we prefer travelling through air" the elder smiles at Ascaria "I guess... if we judge this is the way to go... and once we are ready... we could attend to see this done... could I have hands on your sources for reading? I think it could help us prepare. Or perhaps you would like to come with us to Tilagos?"
"I did not, Mortimer. How could I know Darl's mind? That he valued life so little as to snuff it the moment he felt our intrusion? Poor Heskin. No one deserves such a fate." The Lady's eyes bow reverentially to the floor.
You knew his name, though.
"Wait just a second -- 'Darl'? 'Competition'? Who were all those people? I don't want to presume anything, but were they trying to get to the Island by sailing through the tempest? Why were they torturing Heskin? What do you think was going on there?"
Ascaria decides that she's evil with a small 'e', like many in Cheliax - at least on the surface. So don't trust her, but she may be a valuable ally none the less.
Eidi's petition brings the Lady's eyes from the floor to gaze upon the half-elf. ”Well, as I said, Tilagos Island is roughly 100 miles west from here.” Lashonna moves to the table, and looks through a couple of ancient maps, producing the one she needs. ”Here. There is likely ample distance from the coast, as it doesn't interrupt sea lanes, so somewhere between twenty and fifty miles offshore? As for traveling there, I'm sure you're up to the task. Darl decided on a ship, for reasons of his own. You didn't arrive by ship in Alhaster, how do you regularly travel?”
”A ship aye? Yes a ship is likely the best way to go considering those storms.” he keeps his thoughts to himself on how they may travel, though he is worried about that storm.
”Those storms look intense. This will be a rough ride.” He peers at the map. He’s frustrated that things are not lining up the way he’d hoped. But it wasn’t to be helped. He yearns to see what Eidi might be able to manage magically, but doesn’t want to make plans in front of the Lady…
Solrisa steps back from the discussion, worried about the talk of ships and storms. She subconsciously steps closer to Mort, her hand going to her heart.
"On a boat? Storms? I've never seen sea storms before...is that where we are going?" Solrisa looks from Eidi to Ascaria. "Are we going on a ship?! I've never done that before!" Solrisa looks both excited and scared, a new experience in the offing.
"What should I do to prepare, Lady Lashonna? Have you been before? What was it like? What did you see?" Solrisa takes the Lady's hand looking for experience.
"I guess... if we judge this is the way to go... and once we are ready... we could attend to see this done... could I have hands on your sources for reading? I think it could help us prepare. Or perhaps you would like to come with us to Tilagos?"
"Of course you may have my references, master Eidi." Lashonna moves to her bookshelf, and pulls two thin leatherbound journals. "Please, take care of them, and return them when you're done. Before you leave for Tilagos, of course."
"Wait just a second -- 'Darl'? 'Competition'? Who were all those people? I don't want to presume anything, but were they trying to get to the Island by sailing through the tempest? Why were they torturing Heskin? What do you think was going on there?"
The Lady turns back to Mortimer, the warmth behind her eyes regarding the elder half-elf cooling to address the giant. "Yes, Mortimer, the competition. The Library is a powerful well of knowledge, and would be highly prized by anyone seeking lost relics, artifacts... phylacteries..?" She waits to see if Mortimer understands, or needs further assistance on the word.
"You'll need to travel through the storm somehow. The Scrying revealed a ship's deck, Heskin, several minions, and the death stroke of someone very sure of themselves. I can only assume that one was Darl, as I have not personally met the man. Come, Mortimer. If you had your suspicions of someone, would you not take steps to investigate their activities? When Heskin fails to return to work, I paid someone to find him, and watch over him. Secrets, remember?"
She looks at Mortimer with a measuring gaze. "You asked what I think. I saw a frightened man, tethered to the deck like precious cargo. I think Heskin made the wrong friends. Those friends didn't simply take his intelligence on faith, they took him. And it cost him everything."
"What should I do to prepare, Lady Lashonna? Have you been before? What was it like? What did you see?"
The Lady's gaze is slowly pulled from Mortimer, to look upon Solrisa, on her final question. "Well, from the sounds of it, you should prepare yourself for sea travel. I have traveled by ship before, and I brought plenty to eat and drink, for myself and my entourage. Also clothes. You can never have too many outfits. It breaks up the monotony. I have never laid eyes on Tilagos, so you'll have to tell me all about it when you return."
Ascaria waits until the others are done, before smiling up at the Lady and saying, ”We’ll want to get an early start. Looks like they’re already a ways ahead of us, but perhaps not as much as I had feared. My Lady, you’ve been a most excellent hostess, but I’m afraid we must part ways for now. We must pursue this lead, and must be clear headed tomorrow to do so.”
”We will return your notes before we leave, of course.”
Having made his goodbyes, Ascaria will then stand and head back out into the night.
"Oh, Ascaria. Do let me know if you need to make arrangements for a sea vessel. I'll make sure one is secured for you all, privately." The Lady smiles on the gnome, a light expectation on her face.
"We'll be sure to let you know. Thank you for your kind offer." Ascaria says sincerely, for if they do need to take a boat from here, she could make things much easier.
Of course she'll have spies on board, but such is life. He grins.
Eidi smiles to Solrisa in good mood "Oh Solrisa, perhaps you would. Do you think Rae would like playing the pirates?"
The half-elf accommodates the couple of books between his hands and looks them with desire suddenly losing interest about Lashonna "Here, come boy. Lend me your hand" Eidi looks for Mortimer to find some extra balance "Yes, yes, I do agree with Ascaria, we have to depart now. I am eager to start reading your books. I am sure they will describe details very useful for us to prepare our trip"
"You can be sure that we will jump into this as soon as possible. And... you will be the first one to know about our success" the elder stretches his eyes and offers a half-smile as they give farewell to Lashonna "Thanks for your hospitality. The food was great, and the company was... memorable"
--------------------------------
Back at their room the half-elf starts to lay out the plan discussion with Ascaria. He opens Lashonna's books and tries to determine if teleportation magic might be of use to reach the island, as well as if the storms might make impossible the approach to flying creatures.
"Oh, Ascaria. Do let me know if you need to make arrangements for a sea vessel. I'll make sure one is secured for you all, privately."
Mortimer regards Lashonna for a brief second, eyebrow raised. Sure. Yeah. Maybe it'll work out better for us than it did Heskin.
"Here, come boy. Lend me your hand"
Mortimer tears himself away to help the expedite Eidi's and his departure.
---------------------------
Back in the room after appropriate protections (if any) are set up, Mortimer bursts out, "Druids! We need to find someone who knows Druids!"
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"Oh Solrisa, perhaps you would. Do you think Rae would like playing the pirates?"
”Pirates? No we didn’t play that, though Rae would make an excellent pirate. She’s so angry and great all the time, she would be very good at pirating,” Solrisa smiles softly in remembrance of her dear sister.
”But yes, we’re going on a boat! This is very exciting,” Solrisa chit chats emptily with the Lady until the party ends.
* * *
Solrisa doesn’t have any overt preparations to make. She’s happy to help read things if Eidi needs help (or has too many cookies) or help Ascaria do whatever gnomes do or spar with Mort, if that is fun, but also, she’s ready to go.
"Druids! We need to find someone who knows Druids!"
Solrisa looks confusedly at Mort. ”Whatever for, Mort? I can try to help you find them, but what for?”
When they’re alone, Ascaria will cast Message to help silence their voices as they plan in their room.
”I think we should head back to Magepoint and let them know what we’ve found so far. They may be able to assists us with a boat of some kind if we need one. And maybe a crew. Maybe Mort’s Druid as well. It's also a good place to teleport from if Eidi can just zip us to the island.”
”I’m not sure that Wind Walk is the way to go as I worry we’ll be adversely effected by the winds (weather) and just get blown away by the storm.”
He thinks a moment, ”We’ll also want to sell a few things, and buy a few things while we’re there. Then, with all haste, I’d like to swing by Diamond Lake if we can. I’ve some supplies ready for us there, depending on how long we’re at Magepoint. Or maybe we can pop over while things are cooking at Magepoint to speed things up. Eidi, you can teleport to Diamond Lake right?”
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Eidi smiles to Solrisa "Help with the cookies will be greatly appreciated" the half-elf opens his cinnamon cookies' pot for sharing.
"I think having someone to translate druidic might be a good idea Mortimer. Why don't you look to hire a druid willing to explore Tilagos?" Eidi then turns to Ascaria and whispers through the message spell, as he has no more telepathic bonds for the day "If wind walking is not an option, perhaps we look for a phantom charriot at Magepoint, we could fly there in around 9 hours, if that island is really where Lashonna thinks it is. Looking for a ship will be much slower, but probably safer"
"Yes, I think I could make us back to Diamond Lake in a brisk, perhaps after Magepoint. I will need to rest though, because I used all my teleportation magic for today" he then approaches his bed and starts preparing it for the night.
Before going to sleep Eidi picks ink and parchment and inscribes a low level scroll, as he has no time for more, a remove paralysis scroll "Remember me to pick up materials to improve your equipment while we are travelling"
The next day Eidi will teleport the party back to Magepoint. Having learnt from previous experiences, he targets the tavern they stayed in rather than the Fortress of Unknown Depths this time.
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"Whatever for, Mort? I can try to help you find them, but what for?”
"I mean -- what Eidi's suggesting -- find a Druid who might be able to help us figure how to get onto the island." Mortimer explains.
He turns to Solrisa, "Lashonna said (link) 'the stories hint that the druids left a way for those in need to reach [The Order of the Storm's] secrets'." He turns to everyone." I was just thinking that maybe if anyone might have some idea how to get to the island without going through the tempest, it would be found in the Druids and their lore."
He pauses, running his hands through his hair in confusion. "I mean, boats aside -- how would we ever get through a tempest like that? Has there ever even been a boat that has managed ?"
"I mean -- what Eidi's suggesting -- find a Druid who might be able to help us figure how to get onto the island." Mortimer explains.
"So druids are like maps, then? Okay, let's go find a druid. Or a map!" Solrisa cheers in agreement and happy to help.
"Maybe we can also find a way to swim quickly under the water? That way the storms won't hit us as much?" Solrisa asks, trying to think of a magic that might help her.
HP = 99/99
Hero Points = 6
Equipped = None
Conditions = Heroes Feast (10/12h), Magic Vestment (+3, 10/15h), Status (10/15h, Eidi, Mort, Sol), Wind Walk (10/15h, all), Brightest Light (10/15h)
Life Link (16)(100’) = Eidi, Mort, Sol
Channel Energy (3/12)(10/10) (DC: 27)(Avoid 9, 35’r, 1/1 swift) (8d6+1+2d6 phylactery)
Amiable Blunder (1/1 if Diplomacy failed by >5, re-roll to avoid worsening attitude)
Rod of Extend Spell (3/3, 6th lvl)
Vest of Surgery (1/1 Heal DC 20 to heal 1d4 ability damage in 1h)
Spellguard Bracers (3/3 Roll concentration twice and take the best result)
Mnemonic Vestment (1/1 Cast spell from a scroll)
Tankard (1/1 Remove Fear), (0/1 Heroism (30min)), (1/1 unbinding to DC 25)
Physician’s Spectacles (1/1 Delay Poison)(Constant: Detect Poison, Diagnose Disease)
Expeditious (3/3 swift +10’ movement)
Melee Attack: BAB +12/+7/+2, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +12/+7/+2, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 16, Concentration +25)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (19): Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Guidance, Light, Mending, Purify Food and Drink, Spark, Stabilize
First (20): (9/9) Cure Light Wounds, Diagnose Disease, Endure Elements, Enhance Water, Liberating Command, Obscuring Mist, Remove Fear
Second (21): (7/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Protection from Evil Communal, Status
Third (22): (5/8) Cure Serious Wounds, Dispel Magic, Invisibility Purge, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer, Speak with Dead*
Fourth (23): (7/8) Blessings of Fervor, Brightest Light, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration, Sending, Speak with Haunt*
Fifth (24): (8/8) Air Walk Communal, Breath of Life, Burst of Glory, Cleanse, Cure Light Wounds Mass, Plane Shift
Sixth (25): (6/7) Chains of Light, Cure Moderate Wounds Mass, Heal, Heroes’ Feast, Wind Walk
Seventh (26): (6/6) Cure Serious Wounds Mass, Greater Restoration, Holy Word, Particulate Form
Eighth (27): (4/4) Cure Critical Wounds Mass, Create Demiplane, Mass Heal
* Caster Level +2
- - -
"There are magical boats we could try Mort, though it is dicey I agree. I also agree with Eidi - a phantom chariot might do the trick. It's a lot slower than wind walk, but it's not nearly as exposed or subject to the winds. It'd be a rough ride, but better than a ship."
"Is that something you can cast Eidi? 'cause we'll need to find a way to leave the island too. Can we get you a scroll so you can learn it? Should be a group purchase if so... Oh, and lets teleport outside of the town just to be completely safe. That clearing where we landed the first time we wind walked out there should suffice. If you can.“ he looks to Eidi for confirmation he can teleport there. If not, Eidi’s suggestion is fine, he just hopes they don’t annoy anyone by just appearing in town.
Later that night, he casts Sending, again reaching out to Cedric.
”You have two days, not three. We are in a hurry here but will teleport in. We will see you in the evening.”
The following morning, he prepares as usual. Ascaria ensorcels the shields of the party (Magic Vestment ). He'll then watch over his friends (Status ) and refresh everyones Life Link just in case. He’ll also cast Wind Walk out of general paranoia.
In the morning he’ll also communicate with Cedric via Sending, as will become his normal routine. It’s just a check in, so I won’t roll play them out, just background stuff to help coordinate the two. Common themes will include ensuring Cedric is OK, obtaining a shopping list for immediate needs, and just generally saying hello.
Before they teleport out, he’ll return the books to Lady Lashonna, ”Thank you muchly for these. We appreciate the loan. We’re not sure if we’ll be needing a ship as yet, so please hold off on that. We’ll let you know in the next couple days I suspect, if we do need such a vessel. We’ll let you know how it goes.”
”My lord, I shall be ready with what I can at that time at the estate. There will be few gaps, and nothing critical.”
"Yes, I think I can try to teleport us there. And I plan to visit the Fortress library at Magepoint's. Remember how much it took us the other time to get an appointment with him. While some of us wait, I will copy the phantom charriot spell to my book so we can make use of it" Eidi likely plans to get more knowledge from the magical library.
Once the group has had breakfast, Eidi prepares another heroe's feast ( ), he teleports everyone to their destination as suggested by Ascaria.
"While you try to talk with Manzorian, buy the required equipment for the expedition or find a druid who understands druid stuff, I will be studying some spells" the half-elf will request access to the magical library assuming similar costs as for Academy of Magical Arts.
Assuming a full day of study to level up Eidi's wizard spellbook.
Day visit: 100 gp
mirror image 2th -40*1.5 = 60 gp Success!
phantom charriot 4th -160*1.5 = 240 gp Success!
hungry pit 5th -250*1.5 = 375 gp Success!
cone of cold 5th -250*1.5 = 375 gp Success!
contingency 6th -360*1.5 = 440 gp Success!
veil 6th -360*1.5 = 440 gp Success!
disintegrate 6th -360*1.5 = 440 gp Success!
limited wish 7th -490*1.5 = 735 gp Success!
Total: 3205 gp and 8 hours expended.
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Kelgorn is summoned to see you from Mistwall. He escorts you from the front doors of the Manor, where the carriage awaits you. You pass from the gates, and through the main streets of Alhaster, arriving back at the Angry Rifter in no time. Kelgorn snorts loudly to gain the attention of the last of you debarking. A rich cigar box, with a small note attached. The half-orc departs as soon as the box leaves his hand.
"You are undertaking something very noble here. Dangerous, too. Please accept these items as my show of support. I will not be saddened if they are lost. I will not forgive myself if you don't return, unharmed. Safe travels, my Outcasts."
4 Rings of Protection +5
Eidi begins a night's long reading of the journals offered by the Lady. The first journal is written by Artis the Ancient,. From his writings, one can glean his profession of archeologist by way of piracy. Accounts of treasures cast off decks under siege, of paranoid pirates seeking to bury their treasures on unmapped isles, aits, eyots, and holms, mostly stories told by boastful captains.
The elder half-elf finds the succulent part of the journal, a confession of the nereid Agaue. Under torture no less, as the poor thing lost its shawl to a cruel first mate, who, unbeknownst to his crew, was a eunuch.
Pressed into service, Agaue describes the vicinity of Tilagos Island as a hell of rending winds, earth-shattering thunder, and scorching arcs of fleshsizzling lightning. The tempest conceals within its swirling purple-black clouds the single mysterious island, of which she has seen mostly nothing at all, other than jagged rocks surrounding a grey beach.
The radius of the storm is marked as either two or three miles in the nereid's accounting, its turbulent skyward winds penetrating below the surface of the waters to churn and roil the seas, as well. For its focal and eternal nature, the storm is surely magical, and Hurricane-strength. There are magics that can be brought to bear to counter such things .
The second journal is not a journal, so much as it is a collection of fables and myths, from the end times of the Order of the Storm. The Sacrifice of Beskawahn, the Sabotage of Sayren-Lei, stories of powerful druids who led evil to destruction, no matter the cost. Ancient trials of great strength, overcoming impossible tasks, and the transcendence of the truly selfless. Only the pure of heart could rise to the challenges.
The elder half-elf finds the journals being gently pulled from beneath his resting forehead in the early morning light of the next day.
...
Ascaria finds Mistwall Manor is missing its mistress the next day. Instead, he trusts Larson to see the journals safely brought up to the Manor.
Eidi accurately brings everyone back to Magepoint's outskirts.
Entering Magepoint feels like a vibrant deja vu, as the town avails itself of its services, once your identities are established. The half-elf ventures off to the Temple Library, where he successfully finds sanctuary for the day. Proving his scholarly aptitude, he need not pay the usage fee.
This leaves the remaining three Outcasts to petition a meeting with Manzorian. It's easy enough to meet with Cymria of Celadon, who makes arrangements once more for your stay, however brief, in the All-Seeing Eye. She excuses herself to the back room, returning shortly to inform you of an appointment established for the Artists and Outcasts, the evening of the next day. Cymria only inquires if Magepoint needs to ready itself for pursuers at your heels.
Ascaria reads the note from Lady Lashonna, ”Huh. I wonder if I underestimated her. These are quite helpful!” He passes the rings around after scrutinizing them for other magics if they’re ‘clean’.
”Boy, that Control Weather option is a strong one. Is that something you can do Eidi? I can get a scroll of it (2,275gp) and cast it once a day or so, but that should be sufficient I think. That might be our way in if it works.” Ascaria likes that plan, along with the phantom chariot cruising low over the water to avoid detection.
When Cymria offers the towns services, Ascaria nods. ”Aye, that is most gracious of you. We have things to sell, and I at least have things to buy mostly of a magical nature. Can you avail your shops to us?”
Assuming so, he gathers the items from the party for sale.
"Even if they are safe, I fear Lashonna will be able to easily locate and follow us thanks to her link with the rings" the elder also examines carefully the devices "We should leave them home while we are in Magepoint, and once we are on our way to Tilagos, we must remember to remove them when or where we do not want to risk anyone external to observe what we are doing. We saw what she did with his previous minion"
Eidi takes clear mental notes of the most relevant passages he reads before falling down into Desna's hands.
--------------------------
"There is no need for a scroll. I can ask Aroden to control weather on Tilagos for me. But I have never done it before, and it is still a mystery that eludes me when or how that power is channeled into Golarion nowadays" Eidi frowns worried but accepts trying the control weather.
At some point during the day he will approach Solrisa "I need an ivory statuette of myself as a focus for one of my spells. I would be honored if you took the time to craft one out of my visage and figure. I am curious to know what sculpturing style you think it fits me the best"
For the other day, depending on whether the others require him for help or not, Eidi will inscribe more spells in his spellbook at the Temple Library.
Ascaria, Mortimer, and Solrisa have a two days to spend in Magepoint, while Eidi has one, as one has already been spent.
"Oh! MORT! We're back in Magepoint! Should we go back to the cheese shoppe! Oh! YES! We should do this!" Solrisa grabs Mort's arm for some important cheese and ham shopping.
"Remember that time we had a picnic near here! That was a delightful day, wasn't it!?! Seems like so long ago!" Solrisa cheers and tries to enjoy her two days of rest before the coming storm.
* * *
"I need an ivory statuette of myself as a focus for one of my spells. I would be honored if you took the time to craft one out of my visage and figure. I am curious to know what sculpturing style you think it fits me the best"
"OH! I LOVE SCULPTING!! YES! YES!! " Solrisa squees with the delight and breaks out her rarely used sculpter's tools. "Oh this will be so much fun! I'll make you like the Wandermage! That's the best piece in Dragonchess! Yes! Oh, I will do this!"
When not enjoying the town or carving for Eidi, she will help Ascaria sell the loots and prepare for the voyage.
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Mortimer eyes the Lady's gift, and shakes his head. "It's tempting, but ... why should we except this unlooked for gift of rings? It's not like we wouldn't be doing this anyway... Are they really clean?"
~~~
[He] gathers the items from the party for sale.
"Sell it all!" bellows Mort once they get to Magepoint as he struggles with heartbroken anger over a feeling of betrayal by Lashonna he can't quite pinpoint.
He sighs. "Sorry -- I think I was wrong about both of them. No excuse to take it out on anyone else."
Eidi frowns worried but accepts trying the control weather.
"Don't worry, Eidi," Mortimer says quietly. "Aroden won't blow you over, and I'll steady you even if he inadvertently tries."
He then escorts Eidi to the safefy of the Temple Library, refusing to challenge the Reference Section Librarian. No one should ever do that.
He trudges back to the All-Seeing Eye and falls into thought while the others consult with Cymria nearby..
"'the nereid Agaue' -- were they a Druid?" he asks apparently obsessed and grasping at straws. "I mean, it's just -- according to what Artis the Ancient wrote in his journal -- they seem to know a lot about the Tempest. Maybe they know a way around it. Maybe they were Wind Duke Druids? I've never met one before, I think. What are Druids like?"
~~~~
"Oh! MORT!"
Mortimer follows Solrisa to the cheese shoppe, finding himself lagging behind at times and wondering where the Maiden suddenly came by so much energy. He tags along, making comments about cheeses and ham, marvelling at Solrisa's endless fountain of bubbling joy about everything.
In a flash of inspiration he remembers, "And the zoo, too..."
"OH! I LOVE SCULPTING!! YES! YES!! YES!!"
~@@@@@@~
The world suddenly in a dizzying whorlpool spinning around his head, Mortimer leaves Solrisa to her sculpting and heads for the docks.He keeps an ear out for any old sailor tales involving Druids, Nereids, or Tempests.
There has got to be a way there besides 'boat'!
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Over breakfast on the first day Ascaria outlines his thinking, ”So today and tomorrow are our own to prepare, and shop, before our meeting with Lord Manzorian. After that meeting, Eidi, would you please teleport us to our house in Diamond Lake? We can have dinner, ah, there, and spend the night. There are some things I need to do, and some things to collect from Cedric, who will be awaiting our presence tomorrow evening. The following morning, we can teleport back here, or wherever else we want to start off for the storm driven waters.” Ascaria seems more than usually excited as he asks, ”Is that OK with everyone?”
- - -
Ascaria spends the morning bouncing around various shops, selling off the parties gear and tallying up the proceeds. By lunch he has a final number which he doles out in large bags of loot.
He then spends the afternoon shopping, in many of the same venues, for scrolls and supplies of his own need. He buys, or arranges for the purchase, of the following:
Scrolls and components for protecting Demiplane (Mage’s Private Sanctum, Permanency, and Hallow w/ Invisibility Purge) (19,875gp)
Rod of Reach (6th) (11kgp)
Additional Diamond Dust (2,100gp)
Ring of Spell Knowledge, II (Mage Armor loaded as a second level spell) (6,000gp)
Recorder, MW (100gp)
That first evening, Ascaria humbly approaches Eidi with a small bundle of scrolls and spell components. He hands the lot over and asks, ”If you would be so kind as to learn these spells, and cast them for me tomorrow night after we teleport to Diamond Lake, I would be most appreciative. If you can of course.” he looks up at the elderly mage with pleading in his eyes.
If he agrees, Ascaria happily hands Eidi a scroll of Mage's Private Sanctum and a scroll of Permanency. He also hands over the 12,500gp worth of components required for the Permanency to function. ”I’ll let you know when to cast it.” he says with pride.
- - -
On the second day, with everything in motion that can be in motion, he’ll spend the morning walking about town. It feels good to just stretch his legs a bit, without having to look over his shoulder every moment for some worm to come crawling out. He misses these little moments, and wonders what their future holds.
Still he has a good time and, after a substantial lunch to refortify himself, he lazes around the bar, doodling various things on scraps of paper which he hides most carefully. Glancing here and there, the other party members may manage to see what he’s drawing: simple rooms sketched out from different angles, some sort of floor plan, close ups of door knobs, windows with heavy shutters, and all manner of odd little details in between. You even see the snippet of a halfling, presumably Cedric, gardening in an herb garden along a small but bubbling stream.
(doodles)
Ascaria’s careful to remain sober however, and he cleans himself up a bit (at least wiping the charcoal from his fingers and waist-coat) before their meeting that evening with the Wizard. He wants to look presentable for that meeting - and the visit to Diamond Lake hoped for immediately after if all goes well.
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"And the zoo, too..."
"OH! THE ZOO! I *LOVE* THE ZOO!!" Solrisa squees enthusiastically. "We should take some ham and cheese and have a picnic at the zoo! That is such a good plan, Mort! Then we can go shopping to prepare for our next adventure! Oh...this is good. Yes, this is a good plan."
Solrisa will enact plan cheesezooshopping.
"I am ok. I think that is a good plan Ascaria" Eidi accepts the scrolls and works that very same night to inscribe them in his book "I am not that knowledgeable of abjuration magic, but I will try to make it work Maese Ascaria. I am curious to find out what are you plotting" the half-elf smiles wide at the gnome.
-------------------------------
The next day, after the heroes' feast, Eidi goes first to order some reagents for his spells: four diamonds, diamond dust, incense and eye ointment.
Then, for the rest of the day he goes back to the Temple Library to continue the update of his spellbook, inscribing as many new spells as he can there.
Taking profit of Ascaria's permanency needs, Eidi gets the materials for and makes permanent on himself a see invisibility spell.
As the day comes to an end, Eidi gathers with the rest of the Outcasts to attend their meeting with Manzorian "This man is really busy, perhaps we should start thinking if we have to ask him about any help. I think we are good, but we can tell him to inform us about anything the find about Tilagos, what do you think?"
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As the day comes to an end, Eidi gathers with the rest of the Outcasts to attend their meeting with Manzorian "This man is really busy, perhaps we should start thinking if we have to ask him about any help. I think we are good, but we can tell him to inform us about anything the find about Tilagos, what do you think?"
"Yeah, I figured we'd let him in on what we're planning, he holds up a finger, "the Chariot and the Control Weather, and see if he has any better ideas. Two" he holds up another, "We'd see if he knows any druids. Might be we learn something about where we're headed, even if we don't find a shortcut through the storm, and" he holds up another finger, "Three, see if he wants to help us out."
He puts his hand down, "No pressure on number three as he's already been helpful by giving us access to his libraries and shops, but you never know. Might be something trivial to him is a great boon to us. So we should lay it out there and let him decide."
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Magepoint is abuzz with the Return of the Outcasts. The All-Seeing Eye becomes a little more congested with residents taking time away to investigate the no-longer-newcomers while they patronize the bar and kitchen.
When Mortimer passes along the piers, he encounters several weathered sailors who have stepped down from bigger decks, for smaller fishing boats. There is a lone schooner, standing tall above the rest, its sails bright white, with no insignia or colored flags flying. Being the sociable kind of bloke, Mortimer insinuates himself into several conversations, as Magepoint shows little sign of intimidation by a strange giant man making inroads. Their conversations are none of what Mortimer seeks, so the giant must take the lead on inquisitive hooks.
Speaking on Druids, Mortimer learns that they are wonderful companions to have aboard, especially ones dedicated to deities of nature. Though none of Magepoint residents call themselves druidic by trade, the countryside is no stranger to such wanderers. Speaking on Nereids, Mortimer learns that they are never to be trifled with. The older sailors chide the younger, who have yet to meet one personally. The Drowning Kiss is argued by two such grizzled fishermen. One would gladly accept it as the last thing before death, given a slower descent into untamed waters, shipless, and awaiting the cold's theft of body heat. The other fisherman scoffs, and scolds. A sailor worth their salt would never put themselves in such a position as to welcome a water devil lay lips upon them. Speaking on tempests, well, the giant would need to pick one, of dozens. The most obvious is the Eye of Abendego, roiling eternally off the western shores of Garund. It knows no season, it just is, though the more religious sea farers whisper the dead god's name, reverentially. Other tempests are somewhat predictable for their times in the year when waters welcome such ferocity. Bringing up Tilagos Island, the giant receives blank faces to the one.
Solrisa finds plenty at market to stock herself on items needed to sculpt the elder half-elf's statue, taking as much or as little time as she deems necessary to meet Eidi's requirements for crafting. As for cheese and ham purchases, there are good selections abounding in the smaller shops, and should keep well enough if the Outcasts choose to stop by Old Korvosa, and visit the Arkona Menagerie there.
...
The next day comes swiftly, and with it, a familiar face. Eri Nandri, a light shag of hair turning blonde from prolonged exposure to sun, and a stubbled chin of several days' growth. He informs you that he's been taking to the countryside, and enjoying what nature provides, outside the hustle and bustle of crowded town or city streets. The color has returned to his cheeks, from the last time you laid eyes on him in the Church of Blessed Deliverance.
Your old companion does inform you, when asked, that there is a husband and wife, Valeris and Maxie, both druids, who inhabit the surrounding woods. They keep him company at times with prepared meals, as long as Eri brings them fresh trap. Eri further informs you that they are elders, like Eidi.
Evening approaches, and you ready yourselves for another walk along the watery promenade leading up to the Fortress of Unknown Depths. Cymria of Celadon accompanies you, and with expeditious swiftness, you find yourselves once again the in company of the Archmage Manzorian.
Sitting on the desk within easy reach of your seats rests the Rod Fragment. "I thought you might like to lay eyes on the Rod. It is still under heavy protections, and will return to my Vault shortly after our meeting is concluded." Not far away rests the Ledger of the Ebon Triad.
"You've been busy. Before you catch me up, know that it is only a matter of time before the remaining cells of the Ebon Triad are burnt out of hiding, and the purge is complete. We have been striking swiftly, and with coordination, so that it will be too late, should word get out that they are now the hunted." Manzorian doesn't look pleased, as much as he looks determined. This look falls on each of you, as he entreats you to speak.
"Have you learned anything more? The Ledger was a true find, the destruction of the Overgod a fortuitous victory. What shall we discuss next?"
Eidi is happy to see the new way of living is really improving Eri's health "Take time good friend, you will soon be fully recovered. We shall share a dinner while we are at town"
Later that day the half-elf throws a pinch of expensive incense into a bowl and ask the gods for a divination "What will we find at Tilagos?"
------------------------
The elder nods at Manzorian and explains all the details about their talk with Lashonna "You warned us about Dragotha before. This travel to Tilagos is probably the only way we can find its phylactery and destroy it. But anything that can prepare us for Tilagos might be of help. Did you ever heard about the place? What do you know about the druids that created it?"
Ascaria eyes the rod fragment, but isn't terribly interested in it. He thanks Manzorian for this time, "We'll try to be brief."
He fills him in on the party'e excursion to Zeech's little township. He fills him in on the dragon outside of town, the beast in the basement, the flying devils (though he asks for help here as he never saw them due to his eyesight), everything. He leaves nothing out save a few mundane details, which he'll fill in if asked.
In the end, he echos Eidi, "So if you've any information about Tilagos that might be helpful we're all ears. Our plans include phantom chariots and controlled weather to ride out the worst of it. Do you think that will work, or do you have some other suggestion?"