Raxus looks to Bydar. "Can you tell?"
"Unfortunately, the spell he speaks of isn't one I prayed for earlier."
"The next time I pray, I could request the goddess to bestow it upon me, but that may slow us down somewhat."
Raxus looked over at Arumil. "We cannot take any chances with this. Until Shelyn tells Bydar we aren't sick, we cannot go back to the trade post."
Arumil again gives Raxus a look.
"Its already mid afternoon. With Bokken in tow we will not reach the post before nightfall. We will have our answer a good deal before we even get near the post. Their is no reason to delay. Regardless those who have been close to Bokken and his things should be mindful of those who have not. More so with food and water, again I think our good priest has the ability to purify food and drink. If it is not already a habit, I suggest you make it so for not only yourself but all. Once you have confirmed your status as infected or not of course."
He gives a slight bow to Bydar.
"Both will be prayed for when next Shelyn fills me with her grace." Bydar assures them both, "Let's head towards the outpost, but we'll check before hand. That seems the best way to do it. Only those who've already touched the body and goods should continue to do so, Arumil is right about that... it's a basic safeguard that works well for many plagues. When we find out more about who carries what if anything, then we can make our choice to continue straight to the outpost. "
Raxus seemed like he was on the verge of losing his usual careful calm, but when Bydar spoke and assured him that it would be alright, the big man visibly relaxed. He nodded, wrapped up the alchemist's unconscious form as best he could and gently slung him over his shoulder.
I won't get sick and neither will anyone else. Bydar will ask Shelyn to save us.
Arianna nods in agreement with Arumil and Bydar. "Master Arumil has the right of it. Bokken can't afford any delay, and I'm anxious to know how the people back at the trading post fare."
So it seems like the plan is to return to the Trading Post. If so, you will arrive a few hours after sunset.
Also, don't forget you can travel at a "forced" pace to move across more land at a faster speed.
Arianna examines the small-sized footprints within the hut one final time before exiting.
"It looks like the kobolds and gnomes were inside Bokken's hut about two weeks ago, which would be about a week and a half after the two gnomes and their invisible friends paid a visit to the trading post. So unless Bokken was lying where we found him for two weeks, they were inside the hut at a time when he was still conscious... Although, it's possible he was away while they were here," Arianna shares her observations with her companions.
"So we may have some plague spreading thieving gnomes around."
You arrive at Oleg's Trading Post soon after the sun has finally set behind the horizon. At least the weather has finally broken after days of soaking rains. Streaks of pink and orange still color the sky, but the light is fading fast. You arrive outside the gate which is quickly opened by the guards on duty.
Captain Garess begins walking out, "Welcome back, Liberators! What..." Seeing the looks on your faces and Bokken's body, he pulls up short. "What's going on?!"
Arumil holds up a hand.
"We have news, as you can see when we paid Bokken a vist he was in bad shape. Please remain there for the moment."
He spies someone new among the guards.
"Would you mind telling me who the tiefling with the crossbow pointed at us is? His posture does not inspire friendly thoughts and he seems very interested in us."
Garess stops moving hearing Arumil's words. "That's Ordyn, he arrived with his family a few days ago. He's been volunteering around here waiting for you to return, specifically Teremith. Why? Does he have something to do with this?!". His hand has strayed to the hilt of his sword.
Arumil waves his hand.
"Apologies, seems our recent encounters have left me too quick to expect certain things. Bokken shows signs of the plague and I believe the disease has been spread to him by persons unknown. Bydar will have the spells needed to tell if any of us have been infected and the nature of this illness, his god willing. To be on the side of caution we will remain outside the post. If you could inform the others and perhaps have Oleg inquire about some disease curing potions and their cost that would be most welcome."
"Stay back, Captain. I still haven't had time to study this man's condition as well as I'd like, and we aren't aware how infectious he is." Bydar states. "I may take him to the shrine for care there, in which case I might ask the men to avoid it while I do."
Temerith's ears seem to perk up beneath his hood at the mention of the tiefling's name, and he looks up at the man, surprised.
"So Ordyn, knows Temerith.
And judging by the ears perking at the name,
is some one who likely had a big influence on him."
Raxus gently laid down the bundled form of Bokken and stood well away from the rest.
Captain Garess takes a step back when he hears the word "plague".
"Right, so what's the plan? Should we just throw you some supplies?"
-----
1. The disease appears similar to bubonic plague, cholera, and filth fever. Bubonic plague and filth fever are typically transmitted by vermin, while cholera is usually waterborne. The disease does not have a formal name, and you have not actually heard of it before. It seems this strain of plague must be ingested.
2. Symptoms show up between 24 to 48 hours, and seem to be abdominal discomfort, followed by "bad" bowel movements. Eventually, the victim becomes weak and eventually falls unconscious as the plague saps their strength and constitution. Victim also suffers from dehydration.
3. The target must be kept warm and given clean water for several days to purge the body of the illness.
4. Given what you have learned, it seems likely Bokken drank some infected water, and since none of you show any similar symptoms, it seems all of you are free of the disease.
Arianna watches the proceedings without comment, and helps set camp outside the trading post.
"leave some food outside the shrine, we'll get it once you leave. And thank you. We'll report in the morning... please make sure the payment to the Wargs are ready as that time is approaching soon."
Captain Garess nods, and hustles back inside.
The food is brought out quickly and placed at the shrine for you. Then the guards hurry back inside the Trading Post, closing the gate behind them.
After about ten minutes, they confirm that the livestock tribute has already been selected and they will be ready for transport at the appropriate time.
Bydar thanks them for the food, and puts another cure light spell on Bokken. Then he moves about the shrine, going through various purification rituals and tending to it. When he can call on his goddess to renew and replace spells, he will.
Bydar's prayer is answered, and he feels the knowledge flow into him, "Pardon while I state the obvious, but this plague is nasty. I have no idea what to call it because it is not anything my mentors ever told me about when I was learning the healing arts. It's like the bastard child of the black plague, filth fever, and cholera. The symptoms hit the gut in a day or two, then the illness weakens both might and stamina as it dehydrates you... drys you out. It's a very unpleasant death. he gives some water to Bokken as he talks, "I believe its spread by water. The use of purification spells is definitely the way to go to help prevent it, but as none of us drank any water from the same source Bokken did, we shouldn't be infected. We need to keep him warm, give him fresh water every day for several days for him to get well again, and as Temerith has noted, we'll have to use our curing magics to help him hold on. At least a spell a day I would say."
Another pause, and Bydar says, "And yes, this means someone... gnomes maybe, might be poisoning the water supplies. I suggest we have someone guard the outposts' well."
Temerith nods at Bydar's suggestion. "Safest that way," he says.
Arumil resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the expected verdict of being uninfected. Instead he simply nods.
"I will rely the information to the post while you gather Bokken. I expect a bed would not hurt his recover efforts."
He walks off towards the post. Their was alot going on and steps needed to be taken on multiple fronts.
Raxus visibly relaxes, his relief plain on his face. "Thank you, Bydar."
"Actually Raxus, thank you, for reminding us what our priorities should be," Bydar smiles. "But we all contribute something."
"I did not want to risk the trade post. It is good that we can save Bokken without risking anyone else. Are you sure none of us have it?"
"One hundred percent sure? No, but it does seem unlikely. The real threat will be to the well water. I may go check that right now with the spell to be certain," Bydar says
The morning is cool with mist as the remnants of the front that brought the rains pass through the area. Luckily, the night passed uneventfully.
After receiving the information about Bokken, Bydar proceeds to inform the inhabitants of the Trading Post and the gate is opened. Agreeing with Arumil, Bydar has Bokken moved to one of the open houses, asking Svetlana and Oleg to bring fresh linens and water. After seeing to Bokken, Bydar allows himself a minute to drop his gear and fetch clean clothing at his own home.
You open the package to find an excellent painting of you standing in the foyer of your childhood home. The frame of the picture is decorated with various examples of livery commonly associated with your House. The only issue is the painting is five feet high and three feet wide, weighing about thirty pounds. A small note indicates that your family has heard good things about your time in the Stolen Lands, and they wanted to congratulate you.
The letter is a response from the Church of Shelyn:
Aspirant Bydar,
Greetings from the Church of Shelyn in New Stetven. It was wise of you to contact us about this trade opportunity. Be assured that our Congregation would benefit greatly from such an arrangement, both financially and politically. As you well know, we strive to reach beyond the walls of our buildings to touch the hearts and minds of the common folk, and with an infusion of silver into our coffers, we could double or even triple our efforts. Our recent appointment by the government of Brevoy as a state-sanctioned faith has been quite beneficial for us as we spread the word of the Eternal Rose amongst the people.
The Church would be willing to pay 2 gp 5 sp for each pound of silver. This is half of the current market value of the ore, and is a fair price to for the unrefined raw material. Additionally, we would provide a retinue of templars to assist in guarding the ore as it is transported to our vaults.
As you well know, the Church is always searching for members of the faith who exhibit positive qualities of leadership and responsibility. Such members generally find themselves moving up into positions of authority very quickly. As we expand and grow in Brevoy, new positions will open up as our leadership roles change to meet the new demands of our Church. Your efforts in securing this trade agreement could be instrumental in having your name on the list of candidates for promotion, should any new positions become available.
Yours in faith,
Bishop Devur Mistanner
Her name was Susi.
You enter your house to find the bag on a table. Opening it, you see what appears to be a thick block of wood with a hole through it. Turning it over, you notice that the hole seems to be about the size of a human fist. Somewhat impressed with the feat, you look back into the sack for some sign of who sent it. A small note falls out.
I've been practicing, Bri, hope you're ready for me. GF
Unsurprisingly, it appears Gunda has been following Soloman.
My dearest Arianna,
It was an absolute delight to receive a letter from you. I had hoped for something of a personal nature, but alas, it was not to be… Never fear, I shall continue to pine only for you.
As to the business at hand. I am sure that some arrangement could be worked out that would benefit both parties. The ore would definitely provide a huge boost to the people of the Forest, and would allow them to become more self-sufficient, especially in light of the deteriorating relationship between the Regent and his opponents. As you know, the fey primarily want to be left alone, and there is rising concern about the potential effects if a conflict begins. Having a source of income that does not depend on outsiders coming in to harvest the trees would allow the creatures within to have a better chance at remaining clear of having to choose sides if fighting breaks out.
Anyway, I should be able to pay between 2 gp 4 sp if the material is unrefined, but could go as high as 2 gp 6 sp. Not sure about transporting the goods, but we could figure something out – perhaps the fey would have some ideas, I’ll check with them. Additionally, we would have to agree to specific purity standards, modes of transit, etc, but those details are usually formalities for contracts of this type.
Until we speak again,
Chamber
Another package contains what appears to be a spellbook containing the following:
Level 0: Acid splash, arcane mark, dancing lights, daze, detect magic, detect poison, disrupt undead, flare, ghost sound, light, mage hand, mending, message, open/close, prestidigitation, ray of frost, read magic, resistance, touch of fatigue
Level 1: Animate rope, comprehend languages, disguise self, endure elements, enlarge person, expeditious retreat, mage armor, magic missile, protection from chaos, shield, silent image, true strike
Level 2: Alter self, darkness, knock, levitate, magic mouth, resist energy, scorching ray, spectral hand, summon swarm, web
Level 3: Deep slumber, displacement, draconic resevoir, fly, illusory script, invisibility sphere, ray of exhaustion, suggestion
Level 4: Contagion, crushing despair, dimension door, river of wind, stone shape, wall of fire
You also have a response from Mylbean:
Arumil,
I received your letter, and am glad you in good health. I am surprised to hear about the dragon you encountered, doubly so to learn it is of the shadow variety. Please keep me apprised of the creature’s actions, especially if you believe it to be causing any instability in the region.
I am following up on a rumor I heard about an outpost near your location. Normally, I wouldn't both with such hearsay, but if the rumors are to be believed, this particular location was built and settled by [i]elves, making any structures in the area much more intriguing. I'll keep you updated if I discover more information.
Regarding the silver ore, I have a contact based in Restov that I would recommend, Trademaster Renton Welsson, owner and operator of the Green Water Trade Syndicate. He has offices throughout the River Kingdoms, and his business is allowed to operate in many of the larger cities in the region. His politics are less certain, but while he is careful to abide by all of the necessary laws and regulations regarding trade within Brevoy, I know him to be dedicated first to his own purse, and second to his business. He has no love of either New Stetven or the Swordlords in Restov.
I have taken the liberty of inquiring about his potential interest, and he has assured me he has both the means and methods to handle an agreement of this magnitude. He offers 2 gp 3 sp per pound, plus he will provide his own security and transport vehicles. If the amount of ore is of high quality, he is prepared to offer an additional 3 sp per pound.
I will include his information below so you may contact him if you need any further information.
Finally, I am including an old research tome I found in my library. I think you will find it interesting. Let me know if I can find any specific spells for you.
M.M.[/i]
Lanner watches him go then turns toward you. He is shorter than you, but stockier. Gray skin and black hair, with bright blue eyes. But what you immediately notice is the scarf he wears tied around his nose and mouth. In a low voice, he says, "Please, this may be easier if others can’t see us."
He motions to lead you away from the vision of others who walk around. Once there, he unties the scarf and you understand his hesitation. He bears the jaw and nose of a demon - his lips are curled into a cruel smile, and his teeth are jagged and twisted. Given what you know of your heritage, you are sure they are as sharp as knives.
Lanner smiles, which would cause fear in the hearts of lesser men, but you inwardly pity the man. "Sometimes, our lineage is more physical than mental. I wear the scarf not because of shame, but I tend to get a negative reaction from those who are not of our kind." As he speaks, you notice that his tongue is bright green and forked.
"I have been waiting to meet you, but I should probably start at the beginning. I was brought up in a thieves guild, it doesn't really matter where. They taught me to fight, to kill. I started murdering people when I was nine. My teachers were excellent instructors, and I was a willing pupil." He taps his head. ”Being able to see in the dark was a benefit in that line of work.”
He looks down a moment, then back to you, "But everything changed a few years ago. I was heading home after another successful job when I heard a fight down an alley. Normally, I wouldn’t have even batted an eye, but something caused me to turn my head. I saw a pimp beating a woman with a cane, screaming at her for getting pregnant. That one glance was enough for me to recognize another tiefling – the woman getting beaten to death was one of us. Before I knew what was happening, the pimp's heart was in my hand and I had thrown his body to the ground. The woman, beaten and sobbing looked up at me. Our eyes met, and she stopped crying, stood up, and hugged me. I took her by the hand, and we left that city, never looking back."
"Killing that scum was a violation of the rules, you see. Never kill anyone on the payroll without authorization. My life was forfeit. As was hers. So we ran."
You notice that throughout his story, he seems strangely detached, as if simply reciting a lecture, or reading from a book. But just as you notice that, his voice changes, allowing some emotion to seep into his words.
"Her name is Trina, and we have been together ever since. She had twins, both also... blessed... with our special heritage. Though I am not their true father, I have raised them as such, as well as becoming husband to their mother. We have tried to do our best to raise our children as a family, but everywhere we go… we eventually decide to leave… you know what it’s like."
He pauses, and you can tell he is working up to something, "We were in Restov when I first heard about your exploits. The Swordlords are thrilled with what you're doing down here. Posters were up all over town proclaiming Restov’s successful efforts in pacifying the Stolen Lands, talking about what you're doing to end the lawless behavior and rid the region of bandits."
"After learning more about you, and this land, I thought it might be a good place to try and start a life for ourselves. We're just looking for a place to raise our kids and give them a chance at a somewhat normal life. I don't want my son becoming an assassin, and I don't want my daughter to become a whore. We're willing to work too, I don't want any handouts. I do not boast, but I tell you truthfully that of the men here, only Captain Garess is better than I am with a blade, and I possess the training and talents gained by a true guild of Night Runners. I volunteered for night watch to earn my stay, and I’m willing to do whatever else I can to help around the Post. Trina can help out with sewing, cooking, cleaning or whatever else needs done."
He looks in your eyes, "So that’s why we’re here. I don’t ask for help often, and I don’t do so for myself, but on behalf of my children, do you think this could be a place where they could be raised without constantly looking over their shoulder and hearing curses as they walk around. Can we try to find a new life here?"
-----
Both Terrin and Killian have returned from their trip to Mivon. Both indicate the rivers are relatively clear of obstacles (which was expected), and the city itself relatively pleasant. Terrin retrieved his daughter, Tess, and she is now living in the Post. She has made herself useful helping with the horses and learning how to cook from Svetlana.
Geden continues to maintain the shrine of Shelyn, but Roden seems less enthusiastic than his brother about her worship.
Finally, Endel is up and around. While he cannot return to guard duty yet, he has spent time with the Captain and Happs in an effort to make sure the defenses of Oleg's Trading Post are adequate in case of attack. Other than losing one eye and having some scars, it seems he will make a full recovery.
Yiv showed up several days ago with a bag full of ducks he killed, providing everyone at the Post several meals of duck stew. He left again for the wilderness two days ago.
Arumil will send a letter back to Mylbean updating him on current events. As well as letting him know that Sootscale has shown himself to be a stablizing influence. He will also express a desire to know about the elven outpost as soon as anything has been confirmed. Wishing him luck in his own quest and thanking him for the gift of the tome.
Arumil crosses his fingers in front of him and bows to the statuette of his god. He takes it up and places it in one of his many pockets. As well as the set that had been delievered, along with his new tome. Having memorized the content of the letter his friend had sent him he burns it, scooping the ashes into a water bucket which he promptly mixes and tosses outside into the grass. Once that is done he goes off to find the others so that they may speak about a number of things.
"Welcome, friend. I look forward to working with you."
Looking at the wood block
"Oh my, She has been practicing.
The hole is almost a clean break."
Bydar focuses his main attention on tending Bokken, and making sure the well is not carrying the disease.
still, after that, when Bokken is settled into a proper bed, he goes to his own room to open the package.
He sits down to write a letter to his mother and father,
Beloved Mother and Honored Father,
Forgive the informality of my greetings, but having received this beautiful painting, I was reminded of the great warmth I feel for you all. The Stolen Lands are still wild, and I will not pretend there are no dark clouds on the horizon, but I am proud of what I and my companions have managed to accomplish so far.
A kindly man, Oleg, and his wife, have allowed something of a small hamlet to begin forming about his outpost. I sometimes think the poor fellow feels crowded, but trade appears to be increasing because of it and I hope that is a balm to him. I dwell in a humble but comfortable abode. A proper shrine to Shelyn has formed, it is rough, but with time, I Hope to make it even more lovely and befitting of her. Perhaps one day, there shall even be a true temple in the area not so far from it. We shall see.
In my short time here, I have encountered mythical talking beasts and monsters, fought creatures I never knew existed, and beheld wonders. I have helped show men brighter paths and I have high hopes they will continue to walk it. Dangers abound, but do not fear for me. I feel Shelyn's guiding hand and I trust her will.
I hope you are all well, and healthy. I know Brevoy has its own dangers and intrigues. I am torn between caution about asking how go the often messy politics, and a realization that ignorance rarely helps anyone. I trust the family will handle whatever comes with the grace our house is known for even though our own small branch has its limits.
I hope my siblings and cousins are well. And mother and father, I know that my choice of paths was not always what you wanted for me, but you have always wanted the best for me, and I thank you for that.
Shelyn be with you all,
Bydar
He will have that note delivered when he can. Thoughts of his family inspire some guilt over his great sin, but he still loves them and would not want them to feel shunned.
He's still glad they are in another country though.
The letter from the church forces him to put his thoughts of family to the side. While he intends to share this with others, for he cannot make promises about the silver without checking with the others to see how their avenues may have gone, he does feel a response of some sort is a must. As before, he writes in Celstial.
To his excellency, Bishop Devur Mistanner, Blessed of Shelyn,
I am grateful for this response, for I feel there are many opportunities here in the Stolen Lands that will allow the people here better lives with the aid of the priesthood. While the official sanctioning of the church is long overdue to my mind, one of the reasons we Shelynites are being considered is that we are freer of political entanglements than some other clergy. I do not envy your excellency's delicate navigation.
One bit of good news is that even should this deal in silver not go through as I hope (Though I shall, of course, strive to make it so) the silver is not the only resource in these lands.
However, at risk of discouraging you, I feel i should inform you of the twin distant dangers of war and plague here....
... so ANY templars to face dangers, and more healers and supplies to help the ill will be welcome. We do not have war or plague in great numbers yet, but I thought it best to let you know so you might delegate as you see fit.
The men of this land are desperate for a better way to live than by the sword and club. I feel that Shelyn wants me to provide it for them.
I am grateful for any help in that pursuit.
I shall pass on the church's offer to the mine's owner with as much grace as my tongue and Shelyn will allow. I hope to have it on the very letter after this one.
In loving service to the Eternal Rose,
Aspirant Bydar
He'll arrange for both letters to be delivered as soon as possible, then go out and about.
Geden continues to maintain the shrine of Shelyn, but Roden seems less enthusiastic than his brother about her worship.
Bydar is happy to see the others, including that Endel is making a full recovery.
However, he must also talk to the others about the Silver. It is clear that matter may not wait long.
Raxus seemed confused by what the guard had said, shaking his head and shrugging.
"Don't know her."
He moves to put his scarf back up, then gives you a look, "I would also prefer it if you keep some of the details about my background out of your discussions. It's difficult to explain my former life with people who weren't there."
"But that said, if you ever need me, I haven't forgotten any of my training. I'd be just as happy to leave it behind, but for what you're giving me and my family..."
He stops speaking and you can hear his voice cracking with emotion. He shuts his mouth, pulls up his scarf and quickly bows his head, turning to walk back toward the row of houses.
Roden scowls, "Nah, it's not you, Mister Bydar. I just... I don't know. I know Geden likes Shelyn, but he's always been comfortable with himself. Me? I'm just not emotional like that. And it seems... well, it seems like believing in her is all about emotions, and being emotional, and doing things with emotions. Like art and music, right? And being in love? I don't think you're failing, I think I am. Maybe I'm not good enough to worship her since my emotions don't work right."
He seems genuinely sincere, and his stumbling block appears to be he feels he isn't worthy of Shelyn's affection. He is having trouble with the concept of a deity loving his/her worshippers as a mother and/or father.
You're beginning to think that Geden and Roden were both subjected to some pretty harsh conditions from their parents. Part of why Geden took to the faith so quickly is he was looking for something to fill the emotional void, and luckily, it seems he has found it. Roden, on the other hand, appears to have closed that part off, and is struggling to fill it after he has basically ignored that part of his life for so long.
Overall, you still think Roden is interested, but a lighter hand may be necessary unless/until he has decided to allow his emotions to emerge at his own pace.
-----
Oleg eventually comes to each of you and asks you to meet over lunch.
"Welcome back, and thank you for taking the time to meet with me. I don't know if you've heard, but word of your success against the bandits has been spreading in Restov, and several new traders have visited the Post to inquire about beginning monthly trade runs. Most of them are interested in furs and pelts, though a few are actually interested in acquiring spices and food - apparently Moon Radishes are something of a delicacy in some finer restaurants."
"The guards and the Free Brothers are getting along well, and the new schedule Garess put into place has worked out for everyone. Miles has become a de facto spokesman for the Brothers. Happs is mapping out the nearby areas, and has continued to search for the strange gnomes, but he hasn't found much of anything."
"Yiv's visits are becoming an event for the Post. He seems extremely happy though, and the meats he has brought back the past few times have been great."
"The livestock is faring well, and the tribute will be ready as planned."
He looks over at Teremith, "No offense here, but Lanner and his family had me concerned when they showed up. But they asked for you, and I try to give everyone a fair shake, so despite ... everything... they're no different."
He smiles a bit ruefully, "Of course, those twins already won over Svetlana, and Tess has taken to them too, so I'm okay with them all staying here same if they follow the rules like anybody else. I'm not sure what they're planning, but I know he wanted to talk to you, so I figured I'd let you know where I stand on the matter."
"What's got me bothered right now is this talk of plague. We'll just have to be extra careful about people coming in if they're sick, I guess. But keep me informed about it. I don't want it getting in here and making everyone sick."
She meets up with the others
"Looks like Gonda's been here, and she's confident about her skill again."
Brigette shows the wooden block with a fist sized hole in it.
"I just hope she does not cause trouble as we move on with our exploration and work here."
Arumil looks everyone over.
"Well as it infects thru water as long as your water supply is kept pure then their is little threat to us. But as gnome and kobold tracks were found in Bokken's place. I would assume that etheir of these creatures could sneak in and taint the water. Some sort of guard or purifying practice should be used from now on for water, that is my advice. After all we know a pair of invisible gnomes was moving about the place recently, hardly a comforting thought at this point. So does anyone have anything they wish to bring up?"
Roden scowls, "Nah, it's not you, Mister Bydar. I just... I don't know. I know Geden likes Shelyn, but he's always been comfortable with himself. Me? I'm just not emotional like that. And it seems... well, it seems like believing in her is all about emotions, and being emotional, and doing things with emotions. Like art and music, right? And being in love? I don't think you're failing, I think I am. Maybe I'm not good enough to worship her since my emotions don't work right."
Bydar puts a hand on the man's shoulder, "I'm sure they work fine, Roden. Just because I don't read your emotions well, what you feel inside, doesn't mean you don't feel them," a smile, "Indeed, not every cleric of Shelyn is very warm. Old Brother Verbank, the lady bless him, trained me in sculpting a bit. That man was as stonefaced as what he worked on. He almost never smiled, I CERTAINLY never saw him cry. Yet, the work he did was...beautiful. It was in his art that he found expression, and where he dared to share his passions with us. I knew another man, a worshiper rather than a cleric. He had no skill at art, and never once told his children that he loved them, yet when his boy became violently sick, he went through freezing rain in the middle of the night to get clerical help, never stopping. Every day of the boy's recovery, he stood by his son when there was no other work to be done. The boy may not have realized it, but every moment of his father being by his side was the man's way of saying 'I love you'. We each have our own way of opening up, and I have no doubt, you will find yours if you want to. Your way may not be mine, but I think Shelyn will smile on it all the same."
"Welcome back, and thank you for taking the time to meet with me. I don't know if you've heard, but word of your success against the bandits has been spreading in Restov, and several new traders have visited the Post to inquire about beginning monthly trade runs. Most of them are interested in furs and pelts, though a few are actually interested in acquiring spices and food - apparently Moon Radishes are something of a delicacy in some finer restaurants."
"We should probably encourage the Free Brothers to grow some garden like if possible. We don't want to overhunt or over forage the area," he smiles, "There's an old tale about a golden goose being killed and thus the eggs were lost."
"The livestock is faring well, and the tribute will be ready as planned."
Bydar looks pleased to hear of this, "Raxus, with their noses, it may not be a problem, but we should warn them of possible illness in water sources."
"I just hope she does not cause trouble as we move on with our exploration and work here."
"Maybe she'll like the challenge of helping us out instead? There's certainly enough to do around here, and dangers aplenty in the wild."
"What's got me bothered right now is this talk of plague. We'll just have to be extra careful about people coming in if they're sick, I guess. But keep me informed about it. I don't want it getting in here and making everyone sick."
"Well as it infects thru water as long as your water supply is kept pure then their is little threat to us. But as gnome and kobold tracks were found in Bokken's place. I would assume that etheir of these creatures could sneak in and taint the water. Some sort of guard or purifying practice should be used from now on for water, that is my advice. After all we know a pair of invisible gnomes was moving about the place recently, hardly a comforting thought at this point. So does anyone have anything they wish to bring up?"
"Yes, I still recommend a guard for the well if one can be arranged. I'll try to purify the water daily while I'm here, but obviously that won't always be possible. Still, Oleg, the good news is that it isn't as contagious as we feared. I would be particularly wary of any water source near Bokken's place, for obvious reasons."
He considers Arumil's question, and nods, "And yes, I do have news for you all. It involves the silver trade. I suspect I'm not alone in pursuing venues, so before I gave promises that were not mine to give, I thought it best to bring what I learned before you all. I THINK, the deal they offer is sound, and has many positive benefits for the people here. "
The cleric continues, They offer 2 gp 5 sp for each pound of silver, which is half market value, and is, I think, a fair price for unrefined raw ore. Even better, to my thinking, with talk of war and more...
The church of New Steven is willing to provide a retinue of templars to assist in guarding the ore as it is transported to Church vaults. That means greater security on the roads period. There was much made of new chances for the Church's growth with talk of greater responsiblities an powers for myself. If I may suggest, encouraging other clerics, many trained in healing, could be crucial if plague is indeed being used as a weapon against us. I am not seeing clout within the church, but if it comes my way, I intend to put it to good use for Oleg and the Free Brothers."
Raxus nods at the suggestion of warning the wolves of the diseased water.
After Oleg addresses him, Temerith looks the man in the eyes without wavering for the first time. "He's given his word that he will assist us. Wants only somewhere to live in peace with his family. Has the skill to protect this place," the tiefling man says, nodding and crossing his arms, "and I will vouch for him."
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Temerith joins Raxus as nodding at Bydar's suggestions. "They are unlikely to have been caught by such things, but we should be able to assist them if they have."