Gaius nods politely to the other elves but remains quiet, this is clearly a place for friends to speak, not mere acquaintances.
During the ride back, Bran hears Trellara putting together the story but doesn't say anything until it is complete, though he is more than his share of impressed with the final results.
When he finally gets greeted by Arrowswift he gives a polite bow, "Yes Bran. It means much that you came out here for us and for the others. We have much to tell, but it has been a grueling while and we still have many questions."
Upon reaching Starsong Hill he speaks up to the two drinking tea on the balcony. "We have much to tell, where should we start?" He looks at the others and continues, "For one, the dragon and the leadership in Rhest has been quelled, we aren't sure if this will slow down the lizardfolk or the Red Hand in the long run but it will show we are serious." He tries to grab one of the cups really gingerly and takes a drink, the tea almost finishing in one gulp, "Those harrow-blades, they were creating a hatchery there. Gauis and I discovered it and well... we did what we had to do to stop those living weapons from becoming reality." He gives the half-elf a pat on the back, "If it weren't for this one's bravery and skill with a blade who knows what story we would be telling now instead."
He gives Gauis some time to introduce himself before moving onward.
"This brings us to our newest discovery though." Bran looks grim but continues, "The Hand in Rhest had something that didn't belong to them, a phylactery of the Ghostlord."
He tries to judge their reaction before mentioning the letter.
"Apparently if this phylactery were to be reunited with the Ghostlord, there would be dire problems for the Red Hand." He looks down and shakes his head, "I was considering returning it for a price. This threat is real and a powerful spellcaster may be what we need but then again..." He looks toward the elders, "What else do you know of this Ghostlord's demeanor, what do you feel about this? It would be your world that we could be putting at risk, so I need to know, how dangerous is this lich?"
Tal'ariel was glad to hear the bard's tale. She was thankful that the part where she endured arrow after arrow didn't have its usual ending, which is the victim dying a glorious death for the greater good! "Truly, the most heroic part of the battle was when you fooled the dragon to arrogantly come close, by pretending that Bran had fallen. You should be sure to mention how the Spirits of the Forest turned the tide!"
As Bran tells of the party's discoveries, Tal'ariel chimes in. "Perhaps we could turn the Ghostlord's pride against him. He would surely not be happy to have his phylactery used to keep him bound to the Red Hand. Perhaps the Ghostlord could be roused into anger at them, in the same way he once clashed with the kingdom of Rhest."
High Priest Illian Snowmantle speaks first. He stands slowly and looks you over. He nods to Bran. "You did well, human. These harrow-blades are unholy abominations, created from the foul magic of Tiamat."
Killiar Arrowswift comes back from making another pot of tea. "The lizardfolk are no threat to us without the Red Hand organizing them. My hunters can handle them. And since you slew the dragon, I think they will be cowed for a long time to come." Dealing with the lizardfolk is something he is comfortable with. "As to the Ghostlord..." he becomes quiet and looks nervous.
Killiar looks over to Illian Snowmantle, who also passes up the chance to offer his opinion, looking instead to the Speaker.
Sellyria Starsinger thinks for a moment. She remains sitting, and closes her eyes as she begins. "The Ghostlord has not bothered the living since the Fall of Rhest." She opens her eyes and looks at the phylactery. "If he exists, as I now believe he does, he stays in his keep in the Thornwaste. He is evil, no doubt, and likely more powerful than any other creature in the Elsir Vale. But he does not care to meddle in the affairs of humans or elves. Perhaps we are beneath his notice. If the Red Hand has stolen his phylactery, then they are probably using it to extract some favor from him."
Bran senses that they believe him about the Ghostlord and wish to hear more.
"From the text of this letter," says Trellara, "perhaps they are compelling his aid in their assault on Brindol."
Sellyria nods. "Short-term extortion with an end date. A single 'favor.' Even a mighty war-leader with an army would not wish to, as the humans say, 'push their luck' with a lich."
Illian Snowmantle says sternly, "And nor should you. Do not taunt or threaten the Ghostlord. If he withholds his support from the Red Hand once their leverage over him is lost, I think that is the best you can hope for."
Sellyria motions Illian to be quiet. "That is harsh, Illian. But I think you are right. A lich, if the old stories are true, is a creature of pride, planning, and cunning. He no doubt already has plans to avenge himself on the Red Hand generals, though they may come to pass a hundred years in the future. We do not wish him to make any such plans for us. If we could banish his evil from the world, I might wish to, but I don't think we have the power. And a failed attempt could mean the end of all life in the Vale."
Trellara whispers something to Killiar Arrowswift. He reacts with a start. "Bran, you were almost eaten by a Chuul? Dreadful creatures. One of many reasons we try to stay in the air. And we had discussed - that is - a moment, please. Trellara, we have not selected a new High Singer; please join us."
Killiar, Sellyria, Illian, and Trellara go into the Speaker's house to confer, leaving you out on the porch.
It takes a few minutes.
The fireflies flit about in the lanterns.
There is plenty of tea.
After a bit, the elves come back.
"It is decided," says Sellyria. "We shall lend you six giant owls until this war is ended. Treat them with the same kindness and respect you have shown us. If you do not, they will abandon you. They are intelligent creatures, and worthy of your respect. That is not all. We shall also send a contingent of our hunters to the defense of Brindol."
Illian continues, "You slew two of the harrow-blades."
Trellara adds, "You honored my brother Lanikar at his funeral."
Killiar says, "You defeated the Red Hand and drove them from Rhest."
Sellyria concludes, "You were respectful and honest in your dealings with us. Accept our gratitude and our aid."
Tal'ariel looks around for a bit at the others, before deciding that she ought to be the first to speak. As an elf, she was a natural bridge between this tribe and their band of outsiders.
"Thank you, all of you," says Tal'ariel with sincere gratitude. "We know that when we came, we were strangers and foreigners to your lands and to your ways. Our message was one of danger from the forces of the Red Hand, and when we asked for your help, we could not promise anything in return. And yet you chose to bless us with your knowledge, with your aid, with your warriors, and with your friendship." Her eyes go from Sellyria, to Illian, Trellara, and finally, Killiar, where her gaze lingers. "We are in your debt for your hospitality and your generosity. We will honor all of your gifts, and will use them well. With your great owls, we may yet return the phylactery to the Ghostlord of the Thornwaste. And should the Red Hand dare to siege the walls of Brindol, human and elf alike will stand together to cast back the Red Hand."
When she finds the right time, she speaks more privately to Killiar. "I know you had your suspicions. Thank you for trusting us. I wish you could come with us, but I'm not foolish enough to ask a Battlehunter to leave his people." She did wonder for a moment, what it would be like to fight by his side. She wanted to impress him, to be honest. She wanted the kind of praise that she had once sought from the highborn Celaron, the boy that had once been her closest friend. But she shook off the thought and refocused to her purpose. "I do want to ask one thing. As you know, there will likely be a day when a great battle will occur at Brindol, one that will shape the destiny of the Vale, including of your people. A force of highly mobile owl-riders would make a huge difference in both strength and morale. And the strength of your people would best be spent at such a decisive moment, instead of being left to defend these lands alone should the Red Hand succeed at their mission. Would you consider it, for the sake of both your people and the people of the Veil?"
Bran listens while Tal'ariel speaks, and just nods.
"She speaks the truth better than I would have. Your graciousness and help in this matter is appreciated. No, help is too light of a word; your alliance and bonds... they're special." He offers his hand out to shake them all, not knowing if the custom is required or not, but he makes the attempt.
Eventually he moves to Trellara and takes her aside, "We found this rapier where we found your brother, does it have any meaning to you? I meant to ask earlier but this situation escalated so fast."
Gaius simply stands to one side and nods in respect when the conversation turns his way. He doesn't otherwise speak though, too busy digesting what sort of situation he has found himself in.
This is more dangerous, and grander, than I had any idea of! Flame, you and I are going to have to watch each other more than ever.
Flame, seemingly unconcerned, snuggles in Gaius' backpack and goes to sleep again.
The Elven elders nod in acknowledgement of Tal'ariel's words, then awkwardly return Bran's handshake.
"Stay here for a day or two that we may properly prepare you for your journey," says Sellyria Starsinger. "We will offer what scrolls and potions we can, and search our records for what we can find on rumors of the Ghostlord's lair."
He looks around. "About the Thornwaste, and the Ghostlord. Tal'ariel, my hunters are... prudent. We try to never engage in a battle unless we are sure we can win. There are so few of us elves, every life many centuries of potential. I know you don't have that luxury in a war. But your companions... the human looks at risk as a holy sacrament. I know he means well. But there is so much at stake here. More than one man's honor. Be cautious. Be wily. Live."
He smiles. "Here. I hope you don't keep this in memory of me, but rather find a good use for it."
He hands Tal'ariel a +1 goblin-bane arrow.
"We acquired a few in trade some years back. I was saving this one in case I had a shot at the Red Hand general in Rhest. You've solved that problem for us."
She smiles, basking in Tal'ariel's earlier praise. "I'm glad that trick worked. It was a near thing. That goblin archer on his last pass... I felt those arrows and I thought that was it for me, but hoped at least that you would get the dragon. We made a good team, didn't we? Who would have thought?"
|
Hamailii is happy tp be back home, meeting her people. She smiles as she sees Tal'ariel and Killiar.
Trellara composed a very .. interesting song there. She's really great and surely will be very famous one day. I'm honored to be part of that song, even though from my perspective some things were a bit different. But then i was close to death, which might play a role there. I'm glad we made it back and could defeat the Red Hand and their monstrous minions. I can't imagine what would have happened if their plan had succeeded. The Vale consumed by razorfiends...all life eaten...horrible.
She sighs.
Sellyria, my latest experiences made me think, i kindly seek your guidance and need to meditate about it. As well as that ghostlord story.
As she hears that it has been decided they get some owls, she rejoices.
I'm glad you made that decision, the journey would have been exhausting. This way it is much faster and safer. I hope you will take me with you? I want to support your endeavours, especially now that i know more elves will come to aid this as well. The old pacts have been renewed! What a glorious day!
"We will, and your gifts will not go to waste."
"Would any of you like to spend some time learning to ride the owls?" asks Killiar Arrowswift, "My hunters and I would be happy to show you the basics."
"I will take a lesson or two." Gaius says from the sidelines. "I've never flown on another animal before."
Later he seeks Bran out.
"I was wondering Bran if you'd like to spar? I think we both have a few tricks we could teach each other!"
"Of course. Show me what you have, there's always more to learn in the field of battle." Bran grabs a weapon, feels it out and meets eyes with Gaius "Shall we?"
Gaius releases Flame, and the small fox pads away as Gaius draws his swords, faces Bran with a grin and charges. The flurry of blows drive Bran back, until he feels a sharp nip on his calf, distracting him for the crucial second as one of Gaius' blades comes to rest against his neck.
"Flame and I are good partners." Gaius says, withdrawing the sword. "We've done a lot of practise together on how to fight a single foe. I though we could try the same strategies together, might be useful next time we take on an ettin or something equally large."
Bran looks down at the sword and laughs, "Simple, and effective." He stoops down and tries to pet the little fox, "All we have to do is point out a few openings here and there, and I think anyone could do this..."
He talks under his breath a little, putting his thoughts to words, "Best out of three, and no helping nibbles from Flame here." Giving a hearty laugh he stands back up, "How about it?"
"Sure." Gaius agrees, a grin on his face. He steps back, whistles to Flame, and they begin again.
By my reckoning, it has been 13 days since the Battle of Vraath Keep, when the party first found the invasion plans. That is assuming you spend two days here. These are how each night was spent:
Chasing Koth – 1
On the way to Cinder Hill – 2
By Skull Gorge Bridge on way back from Cinder Hill – 3
By the creek with Warklegnaw – 4
Old Bridge Inn (Drellin’s Ferry), Worg-rider attack – 5
Terrelton – 6
Talar – 7
Blackfens Ambush before the barricade – 8
Starsong Hill – 9, 10
Blackfens camping before early-morning Battle of Rhest – 11
Back to Starsong Hill – 12, 13
When you were at Cinder Hill (11 days ago), the army hadn't started marching but seemed about to head out. The various steps you have taken might have delayed them, and they weren't expecting to hit Brindol until Day 35. So you probably have time before Brindol is hit. However, they probably have hit Drellin's Ferry, where as you recall you convinced the leaders to evacuate.
Killiar Arrowswift shows you the basics of owl-riding, telling you the names of the owls that he lends you. Frost, Blackthorn, Phantom, Sprite, Thunderbolt, and Blue. His other hunters pepper you with questions about the Red Hand and about Brindol, now that they know they will be joining you for the battle.
Illian Snowmantle and Sellyria Starsinger work on potions and scrolls for your journey.
Trellara takes the chain shirt and the cloak with appreciation.
"I recall once seeing a map that placed the Ghostlord's lair somewhere near the eastern end of the Thornwaste. We might be able to find a copy in Brindol or Dennovar."
You rest and train for two days, then prepare to depart. The owls are normally nocturnal, but can adjust to fly in daytime if you wish. Sellyria takes the time to speak with them using her magic; she translates, and you realize they are just as intelligent as people (although they cannot speak).
"They can understand you, most easily if you speak Sylvan. They know some of the words of Taldan, or Common as you say."
"Blue... a name fitting for a creature with no hands, to fight such a force." He speaks to the owl after hearing that they understand, "It's almost destiny."
Bran turns to the elven bard, "Perhaps we should make toward the dragon-mage and ask if he knows. If we can find the map, great, but at the worst case maybe we can convince this wizard to speak with us and we may learn something."
"...I ended up in Elsir Vale some time ago. Heard about the Red Hand, and fought off some raids near the city of Dennovar. Aragathos sent me on a few scouting missions to find out the extent of the Red Hand's threat.
When I was done Aragathos suggested I come out this way, said the coin would be good if I was up for it... So I came and met Teyani. She told me about you guys, 'a band of heroes seeking to strike at the Red Hand', and gave me a couple of potions so I could get here quicker."
Aragathos is a powerful Draconic-bloodline sorcerer who had employed Gaius for a time.
You also know from the innkeepers in Nimon Gap (here) that Aragathos is fearsome, not well-liked, and paid a fortune to defend Dennovar.
It's possible he could give some aid if you made it worth his while.
So where to next?
Dennovar, to talk to Aragathos?
Brindol, to see the city and meet the leaders where you will be making a stand?
Or the Thornwaste, to find the Ghostlord?
Brindol would be about two days' flight. It's not far from Witchcross, which was the last town you hit to warn to evacuate before turning towards the Blackfens.
Dennovar maybe four days. It is further down the Dawn Way past Brindol.
The Thornwaste is about three days' flight. You'd basically fly over (or around) Drellin's Ferry to get there.
Both Brindol and Dennovar are small cities where you might find a broader range of supplies (such as potions of wizard spells like Fly, or spells for Tal'ariel to scribe). You could also sell or trade items you aren't using.
You do have a bit of time (about 3 weeks by the invasion map you found). Not a lot of time, but some.
"Gaius. I think you were meant to join Frost and Flame together!" suggests Tal'ariel, as the owls are introduced.
Tal'ariel pets the one called Blackthorn. She speaks to her new companion in the Sylvan tongue as she pets its enormous feathers. "You are truly majestic. Forgive me for taking you away from your home. In order to defend these marshes, we will need to go far from them. But I promise I'll take you back here once we win this war."
As preparations are made for their next journey, Tal'ariel's preference is clear. "I think it's time we pay a visit to Brindol. We'll want to see how seriously they are taking the threat, because I'm worried they'll think themselves unassailable. It'll be a good location to resupply and unload some of the valuables we've collected."
"You're probably right. If its en route then there is no reason we shouldn't. As much as I would like to deal with the problems at hand, we need to help those in Brindol first, considering what we know for sure with this map here."
He looks towards the others, "Tal is right, we can't let them think they're invincible, overconfidence will spell the end for the Vale."
Gaius is already heading to the owl called Frost as Tal'ariel calls out, unable to restrain a smile at the thought of working with Flame and Frost at the same time. He too pets his new owl, murmuring in the language of the forest, and scratch gently in a few places to try and establish what the giant bird likes.
As the conversation turns to a consensus he nods, "I've never been, but it sounds as though this Brindol is going to be right on the frontlines. We'd best get going."
Frost appreciates Gaius paying him some attention. Flame does not and makes some small annoyed yips. The giant owl feints his beak in Flame's direction. Flame yelps, assumes his Mauler form, and snarls. The owl, still much bigger than even the enlarged fox, blinks and cocks its head sideways. Then it feints with a talon.
"Stop teasing him," says Trellara, as Frost settles down.
You set off in the morning. Riding the giant owls is fairly easy, as the saddles are good and the owls can adjust to help you keep your balance. The swamp is warm and foggy, but with a bit of height you can rise above it.
None of you have ever flown so high and for so long. It's disorienting at first, but after a couple of hours you get used to it. Soon you clear the swamp and are flying over the Witchwood on the way to Brindol.
Trellara sings an Elven melody. The words are archaic and drawn out in ways that make them a little difficult to parse, but Tal'ariel and Gaius manage to piece together it is a song of wandering. Hamailii knows the song already. It is mournful about going into exile and leaving the Westdeep behind, but hopeful about what the Tiri Kitor might find from their wandering. It reminds Hamailii of some Desnan hymns. Trellara takes a break to note that the song is based on a much older song detailing the flight of the Elves from Golarion prior to Earthfall. Some verses speak to the unexpected beauty that can be found in the Blackfens, and the last verse notes that their journey has not ended, and that other lands lie ahead.
This last verse is sung as the sun is setting, as you approach Witchcross.
Witchcross is a large village located at a ford of the Witchstream (a smaller stream that feeds into the Elsir River eventually). It lies in the shadow of the Giantshield Mountains, a low range with pine trees on the slopes. While the village is ostensibly governed by a council of elders, the elders make no important decisions without first consulting a circle of Witchwood druids known as the Keepers of Eth. They normally stay in the area around Witchcross, tending to ancient groves and druidic ceremonial sites. Adranna the Young (a human woman of about 50) is the Speaker of Eth.
The druid groves are the best place for the giant owls, as the town doesn't have stables for such creatures. You land nearby, and Adranna greets you.
"Greetings again, Bran and Tal'ariel. I see you have new companions. Trellara of the Tiri Kitor, is it not? Tell me, Trellara, is Sellyria Starsinger well? And I see a follower of the Tender of Dreams... and sword-master. I assume you have joined Bran and Tal'ariel on their quest against the Red Hand. Will you stay with us and the owls in the grove for the evening, or venture into the village to find beds? The villagers have not evacuated yet, although they are loading wagons and making preparations."
"Seeing the elders do it, I always hoped I'd get to fly. But I never expected my first flight to be on the back of a giant owl! Woohoo!" Tal'ariel seems unabashedly thrilled. "It's incredible what you can see from this high."
Landing at the druid's grove, she's seen fussing with her windblown hair before she greets Speaker Adranna. And she introduces her companions. "Hamailii is a wanderer of the Tiri Kitor, and Gaius--well, he and his companion, Flame, just appeared from thin air!"
She looks to the others. "My, er, back is a little sore from riding so long--it's not something I'm used to!" You're pretty sure she means her bum, but she doesn't want to say that. "So maybe a bed, but I don't think we're in a hurry. How is the druid's grove? Are you also making preparations?"
"Yes, we've been blessed with new allies and friends willing to fight alongside us." He pats the owl, "Thin air is right, they came in our time of need."
A little saddlesore, but nothing too much out of the ordinary Bran chuckles, "I think a bed is in order but tell us of the grove, how has it been? Have you found anything of note recently?"
He debates asking if they know anything about the lich but holds himself for the time being.
Adranna looks around. "It's been a week, and nothing so far here at least. But I did receive an Animal Messenger from the druid of Drellin's Ferry, Avarthel. The Red Hand has not yet taken that town. Your destruction of Skull Gorge Bridge set them back. And we also hear that Old Warklegnaw and a band of two dozen forest giants are slowing their progress through the Witchwood. I would guess these are not trained warriors; Warklegnaw's grand-daughters and their friends are the only forest giants I know of who spend any time in the Witchwood. But they are blocking paths and taking shots where they can.
The Witchcross Council of Elders also had a rider report that the evacuation of Drellin's Ferry is complete. Speaker Wiston, Sorrana, and the others should be on their way to Brindol. Avarthel's note said he would remain in his grove to harass them. He will hit and run. If they commit a large amount of their forces and time to the task, they might manage to slay him, but it would not be easy."
"As to my grove... I will likewise stay here and not evacuate. The sacred groves cannot be left untended if the Red Hand is coming through. I have started making preparations."
"I am sure the town elders would give you shelter. Goodman Cooke and the others know of your mission, and know it has my blessing."
Witchcross is normally a sleepy town due to its location off of the Dawn Way. People don't stop here as often as they did when Rhest was a great city, so the town has declined. You can tell there used to be more buildings, although for the most part once abandoned they were taken apart for materials.
But this evening the town is busy. In the town square there are wagons, draft animals, and hundreds of people working. There are piles of carrots and cabbages fresh from the fields, barrels of wheat and oats, and casks of wine. People are organizing, packing, and loading up wagons. Several youths take a break from their work to point to you and whisper. One girl whispers to a friend and tries to mime flying; the friend shakes her head incredulously. Both see you looking and rush off to get back to work.
Goodman Cooke is a short man in middle age, with a fine hat and a well-made shirt. He seems to be in charge of the logistics. He delegates to a younger man that looks like his son, and walks over to you. He extends a hand. Goodman Cooke is doing a fairly good job of keeping it together, but is clearly out of his element and rather anxious.
"Bran, do we still have as much time as you thought? We are doing as best as we can. I know we'll have more refugees coming so we need food not just for ourselves, but for those from Drellin's Ferry or Terrelton who didn't take as much time to pack."
Upon hearing you are looking for a place for the night, he says, "Inns are getting packed. Take my house for the evening. It's an old manor, and a bit drafty, but it should be a pleasant night. We'll stay at the Council Chambers. Or maybe the Jackno house, we'll be helping them gather in their crops in the morning."
|
|
Hamailii seemingly enjoys her time on the flight and Trellaras interpretation of the song and his story and once arrived, is curious to explore the "city".
It is my pleasure to meet you Adranna! The song of the spheres guided me back to my homeland in these times of great need, so i do what i can to help. It would be horrible should the Red Hand succeed with their plans. It is very kind to offer us shelter.
"I understand your need to protect your grove, I wonder if the elves would have some of their own druidic order who may lend their aid to this sacred place." Bran turns to Trellara, wondering if that's the case, "Either way, the elves of Starsong Hill are going to be assisting us, but your aid will be sorely missed."
---
"I wish I had information for you sir, some tangible timeline. From what I understand the destruction at the gorge has slowed them down somewhat." Bran looks kindly at the man and puts his arm over his shoulder, offering some encouraging words, "You're doing well. No one can be prepared for this type of situation so please don't be hard on yourself." He leaves with a pat and continues, "The elves are coming to assist and reinforce Brindol, we will be standing together. It seems that our coalition is making great strides here and while I don't know the time, I feel that we can breathe a little easier this moment."
He gives him a smile upon hearing of the house, "Thank you. I'm sure we have some shopping and planning to do but we won't be long."
Gaius spends most of his time with the owls on this whirlwind tour. His new companions are one thing, but the trail of people they've met and helped is quite another, mounting up so rapidly he can barely keep track. He nods politely whenever introduced but soon decides that spending time with the owls is easier (and it helps to make sure Frost and Flame don't fight again!)
"You're too kind, sir," agrees Tal'ariel as Goodman Cooke offers his home. "You're sure doing a great job organizing the people," she says encouragingly. "Is there anything you want us to do to help?"
"Aye, if I can lighten some burden during our stay here I'll be happy to. I think before we do though, we should take a quick look around and see these fortifications and any plans you may have."
Adranna smiles at Hamailii. "Will you stay here in the grove, or in the village? I am certain that a follower of Desna can appreciate a good night's rest and find good dreams whether in towns or in trees."
The druid then considers Bran's words.
"We druids can be... well we may seem territorial, but it is more that we have lands that we are familiar with. Hamailii, I know that your Speaker, Sellyria Starsinger, is of a similar order to mine. But her land is the Blackfens, and she is elderly even for one of your kind. I would not ask her to come here to fight at my side. Although... maybe there is a potion or two that elf-priest can make that would confound attackers and make them unsure of what they are facing. I will consider that.
As to Brindol, Bran, I am afraid that I would not be much help in that defense. Like Avarthel and Sellyria, I am very dangerous on my home terrain. I know the places to hide, the animals that live here, and the places to prepare ambushes. I can spend these days preparing magical traps and wards, and speaking to the animals. There would be much less I could do amidst stone walls. But I will do my part here and hopefully tie up some of the Red Hand's forces."
---
Goodman Cooke thanks Bran for the reassurance. "No fortifications here, we're leaving. Our masons have gone ahead to Brindol, and our carpenters will follow as they are able - we still need some of them to help with barrels and wagons."
Goodman Cooke calls and end to the day's work, and heads off to the Council Chambers to discuss progress with the other town elders.
There is an old tavern, the Twisted Root, on the edge of the town square. It is usually far too large for the town. The building dates back to when there would be travelers on their way to Rhest. Much of the tavern common space has been converted to other uses, like a small apothecary shop and a tiny barrister's office. The kitchen and cellars are still large, and on a warm night like this, one can sit outside.
The townsfolk, content with their day's work harvesting and packing, do their best to welcome the many refugees in town. They set up tables outside the tavern and sip their ale.
---
Witchcross is a large village and may have a few low-cost items for sale (75% chance for anything 500 gp or less, along with a couple of other minor or medium items).
Brindol (where you are headed next) will have much more.
What do you wish to do?
Chat with the locals and refugees?
Head to Cooke's Manor for the night?
Split up and some stay in the grove with Adranna tonight?
Do some shopping?
Tal'ariel decides to visit the very busy tavern, taking a seat at one of the outside tables. She looks for a group of refugees from out of town. "Where are you coming from? Have you heard any news from your home? Did everyone leave or did some stay behind?" She hopes to get some useful information about the state of affairs to the West.
Bran decides to move to the Goodman's manor and unfurls the maps of the area. We have so much ground to cover still, these owls sure help though.
He decides to rest up so he can stay awake throughout the night, fearing another ambush. Better to be safe.
Gaius busies himself seeing to the owls stabling and, with that done, heads to the manor and settles himself to watch while Bran sleeps, confident that his friend will do the same for him later.
The travelers in Witchcross are mostly from Drellin's Ferry, although some are from Terrelton. Nimon Gap and Talar haven't really begun evacuating yet.
Tal'ariel learns that many of the refugees from the towns along the Dawn Way are headed straight from Talar to Brindol. Witchcross is out of the way, so it is a stop for those not going to Brindol.
Drellin's Ferry sent its masons, engineers, and warriors as soon as possible, so they would have plenty of time to help fortify Brindol. Likewise, Sertieren the Wise and Zelligar the Mystic have already reached Brindol.
On the other hand, the shepherds and herders from Drellin's Ferry want to get out of the way of the Red Hand, but have no particular need to hole up in a city. Many of them have stopped by Witchcross, planning to head into the foothills of the Giantshield Mountains. There are also a few dwarves headed for Red Rock, hoping to find shelter in that dwarven mining town.
Tal'ariel learns that the farmers will be among the last to leave, wanting to harvest as much food as possible before heading out. Coopers and drovers will by necessity be with them. The druid Avarthel can provide reports to ensure that the refugees have at least two days' head start on the Red Hand.
-----
Cooke's manor is old and drafty, but comfortable, especially on a warm night like tonight. The furnishings and foodstuffs are not as high-quality as the building itself; like the village of Witchcross, Cooke's family's status is probably a shadow of what it once was. Still, there is an orchard around the manor with some peach trees that have ripe and tasty fruit.
Bran stays awake as much as he can into the night. Around 3 am, Trellara begins to insist that he get some shut-eye. "Bran, the manor is sturdy stone. We have closed the shutters and I have placed Alarm spells on them."
Bran can do as he wishes... but there is no ambush that night. After two nights at Starsong Hill and one night here, that's three in a row without being attacked. It's almost normal.
-----
The next morning, you set out for Brindol. It's a bit over 20 miles, which would a full day on foot but about three hours for an owl. So you arrive in the city before noon.
Brindol is one of the two largest cities in the Vale, with a population of over 8,000. As you fly in, you see extensive orchards of apple and pear, and sprawling farmland. These follow the banks of the Elsir River, spreading out for miles on either side. Brindol itself sits on the southern bank. Its city walls, and the small keep flying the banner of Lord Kerden Jarmaath, are the only real fortifications in the Vale apart from Dennovar.
Is there anybody in particular you'd like to try to see?
On his way from Dennovar, Gaius would have stopped here. He went to the Temple of Iomedae to receive a message from Tredora Goldenbrow, the aasimar High Priestess (and Mikail's superior). He'd also have been to Brindol Keep to meet with Teyani Sura (the Lion of Brindol the party met on their earlier visit to Witchcross), and possibly to Red Magic and Sundries, to purchase supplies from the wizard Immerstal the Red.
Other locations: The Stone Wyvern is the most successful inn, the Thirsty Zombie is the rough tavern, the Craven Raven is the high-class one, and the Laughing Manticore is for the rich but wild (so where many adventurers feel most at home). Velorian's is the theater, which hosts plays, concerts, dances, magic demonstrations, and (tonight) scholastic debates.
There are a few things you might wish to do in Brindol.
1) Talk to the city leaders;
2) Look for maps that might show the Ghostlord's lair;
3) Resupply.
However, the most immediate decision is "Where do you land?"
Outside the gates? Inside the city?
Bran goes to bed eventually and has solid and safe dreams, possibly induced by all the nearness to the Dreamtender's followers.
As they fly over Brindol Bran yells out to the others through the air, "This is what we're protecting, beautiful isn't it?" He looks at what he can and imagines a time when this would all be over, "I think we should land outside of the city, villagers can easily be spooked by giant owls during daylight."
Once they land Bran talks up, "I think we need to make our presence known to the leaders of the city, tell them what we know, and about the aid of the elves. It should shrink their fears somewhat and maybe change their decisions throughout the day to day here."
He ponders the lich still, "Then we have the dirty business with the Ghostlord, someone here must know something."
"I'll sort the owls out and then make a scouting run." Gaius offers. "I want to examine the land around town, work out where the best places for siege weapons and so forth are. If we can figure it out in advance we can set up traps, adjust the defences, that sort of thing."
"Yes, we'd better land outside!" agrees Tal.
"Excellent idea, Bran," says Trellara, "It has been many years since any of the Tiri Kitor visited Brindol. They will not know our intentions. I imagine flying over their walls would be a good way to get off on the wrong foot."
There are indeed shouts and points from the gate guards as you set down in a grove a few hundred yards from the gates. After you dismount, Gaius works to get the owls settled. Trellara offers to stay with the owls. "I enjoy speaking to them... and I think they'd like to have familiar company nearby in this strange place. The other option is we could send them off to hunt and tell them to come back in a few hours."
Four guards approach on horseback and shout "HALT AND STATE YOUR BUSINESS!"
You explain and they send one away as a messenger. "You're the ones Teyani Sura spoke of. The band that was warning towns along the Dawn Way and then went to Rhest."
----
Teyani Sura comes to the gate in about 20 minutes, accompanied by two other senior members of the Lion Guard. Teyani Sura is of Tien ancestry. She is on the shorter side, with long black hair (starting to grey) tied back in a ponytail. She wears a soldier's tunic of blue and white over a shirt of mail, with the stylized image of a golden lion over her heart. The gate guards had a less-detailed lion emblem, perhaps indicating lower rank.
With Teyani and in similar garb is a stout human man with a Taldan look. He carries a warhammer and shield, but does not introduce himself.
The two of them are flanking a middle-aged man in full plate. He appears to be in charge. He is tall and fit, with an Ulfen look, and walks with a limp. "I am Lars Ulverth, Captain of the Lion Guard. Teyani Sura has told me of meeting some of you, at least, a week ago in Witchcross. These gate guards report that you arrived just now on giant owls. So are you Tiri Kitor? With a human as an honorary member?"
----
You can tell him as much or as little as you want. Captain Ulverth explains that he is in charge of the defense of the city.
"The aid of the elves will be welcome. Teyani Sura showed me her copy of the invasion map you found. Our other sources of information confirm the reality of this invasion. It sounds like your actions have bought us some time, which will be helpful. Though I can't figure out, what were the goblins doing in Rhest?"
----
Gaius, you would be welcome to help set up ballistae and catapults, or dig ditches. However, there are some experts in Brindol with ranks in Profession (Siege Engineer). A married dwarven couple, their daughter (an apprentice), and two humans. The dwarf woman looks at your fine swords and armor before brushing off your advice with a curt "You're infantry, right? Thought so. Grab a shovel." On reflection it does seem that they know their stuff.
Tal'ariel addresses the Captain of the Lion Guard.
"It is an honor to meet you. Some of us are Tiri Kitor, but not as many as you would expect. We gave them aid, however, and now they've given aid to us in return. More owls will come here, should battle arrive at these walls, and with them skilled bowmen of the Kiri Tikor. Have you seen our allies? Some of them went ahead to spread the word of warning. Zelligar, for instance?"
"As for Rhest, the enemy was seeking to hatch fiendish creatures in those waters. We defeated the goblins and their dragon--barely--and put an end to those abominations."
She asks some questions in return.
"Have you learned anything more of the Red Hand, and what might be done to disrupt their plans? We would like to strike at them any way we can, to weaken them and show them down."
When the conversation concludes, Tal'ariel is eager to see her former friends from Drellin's Ferry.
Gaius, recognising competence when he sees it, sketches a military salute and grabs a shovel! :)
Bran laughs, "Honourary member! I admire your frankness. Bran here."
"Anything you could tell us about the Red Hand would be appreciated. Have their movements slowed down? Have they become more aggressive?" He looks toward the distance, "They will come, its only a matter of time." He nods at Tal, "We should meet with Zelligar, and then with the Red Wizard. Perhaps Hamaiili can talk with the clergy here and see what they know about the Ghostlord as well."
Captain Ulverth replies to Tal'ariel first. "That will be welcome aid. From what we have heard, the Red Hand have a fair number of aerial forces - not just dragons, but also manticores and wyverns. We are trying to build a few more ballistae, but elven archers on giant owls could help even the odds. Thank you for bringing them to our aid."
He frowns. "I am sorry to say I don't know much more about the Red Hand's plans. I will say that the Tiamat connection has the priests very concerned. And they've been working hard to reinforce the magical wards on the cathedral of Iomedae. Your Aasimar friend is helping there."
"Zelligar... is that the halfling wizard? Or is he the Nethys priest? They came together from Drellin's Ferry and have been holed up in the Academy going through all the books."
As Bran recounts the story, Captain Ulverth nods. Teyani and the other soldier pay close attention. They do not write anything down. Captain Ulverth asks Bran to lower his voice when it comes to the Ghostlord, and raises a hand for him to pause while some other guardsmen are passing by. He looks at the two Lions of Brindol with him and says, "Teyani, Larch, this is need-to-know basis only. Right now just Lord Jarmaath, High Priestess Goldenbrow, Immerstal, and..." he grits his teeth, "Lady Kaal. I will tell them, but if anything should happen to me, you are authorized to tell them and no others."
"You probably know more than we do about their progress," replies Captain Ulverth, "if you've been talking to druids. Thanks for that report on the Witchwood, second- or third-hand though it may be."
"Come in, come in!" says Zelligar. Sertieren the Wise looks up from a book at a table, then goes back to reading.
Brindol Academy is an ornate two-story building halfway up the city's hill. It is the most prestigious school in the Elsir Vale, offering courses in history, magical theory, geography, alchemy, engineering, and culture. Most courses are for adults, but half of the ground floor is a finishing school known throughout the vale for producing cultured and well-mannered aristocrats.
The two halflings have taken over the library, and placed small cots in two corners. They've clearly been here for a couple of days. Books lie open across many tables, with scraps of paper marking key references. Other pages filled with notes are tacked up (at halfling height) in various places.
"Trying to find out what we can about Tiamat. Also trying to learn how to harden stone against dragonfire."
The halfling cleric looks you over. "Bran, you look well. You too, Tal'ariel. Any progress in your magical studies?"
When introduced, he greets Hamailii (assuming Gaius is digging fortifications). "A Desnan? How fortuitous. May your travels bring you the stars," he intones politely. Hamailii can see his holy symbol of Nethys.
Upon hearing about the Ghostlord's phylactery, he says, "I think I saw a note in a margin that there exists a map showing the Ghostlord's lair... could be in one of these other books here... though it should be easy to see from the air if the tales are true. A great stone lion in the desert. Sertieren, do you recall seeing a map like that?"
The halfling wizard looks up again. "No. Do we have any food? And not magic cleric food but real food?"
Zelligar responds, "Well that's what your Prestidigitation is for. If you can't make it taste good then that speaks to your magical skill, doesn't it?"
There's clearly a bit of friendly rivalry between the wizard and the priest of Nethys.
"Tal'ariel, how good are you at Prestidigitation? Let's adjourn to the dining hall and find out."
The halflings mark their places in the books and decamp to a room with large wooden tables and benches. Zelligar grabs a platter and a crock and begins casting a spell. Ten minutes later, he has conjured bread, cheese, and stew for lunch. It's perfectly edible, though a bit bland. "Tal'ariel, want to give it a shot? And then all of you eat your fill. There should be plenty left over to hand out."
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Hamailii shyly stayed in the back so far, taking in the impressions of the human town.
She smiles at the halflings though.
Thank you! May Desna delight you with her starlight as well! Are you a priest of Nethys? May i ask your name? Perhaps i can help you gathering knowledge about Tiamat i collected on my travels. I'm uncertain how many of the tales i heard are true though.
She follows into the dining room, quite surprised about what is going on there.
This is the first time i see food made like this, i would have thought you halflings prefer to cook and season food for hours, many a tale is told about that.
"Zelligar the Mystic, cleric of Nethys, at your service. I was with Bran and Tal'ariel for the raid on Vraath Keep, the defeat of Wyrmlord Koth, and the slaying of the dragon Ozzyrandion. And yes, many of my kin do like to spend their time on a good meal, but unlike most halflings I appreciate the value of a well-cast spell. I am sure Tal'ariel's Prestidigitation can make this meal the equal of many hours' labor over a stove. And those are hours that we do not have in any event. My wizard colleague Sertieren and I have been busy doing everything we can to prepare Brindol for battle. Research and crafting, mostly."