We're followers of Nethys! The young man blurts out.
Velriana smiles wanly, Yes, that's right.
"Ah, I should have known. Well, if you're not able to go to the Erudite Eye tomorrow, where will you be heading?"
After hearing her response, Nevai thanked them for the drink, wished them luck in their upcoming foray and offered to buy the next round after the exploration was complete before retiring for the night.
Thea casts Detect Magic and looks at the sword that Marn is holding up. I wonder if this thing is really magical or he is just that drunk?
It is definitely magical.
Velriana sighs and responds, Oh, just some random site chosen by the church. It doesn't look particularly exciting, but we shall see.
She and her allies excuse themselves. The two Daughters finish their drawing, chat politely, and then retire for the evening. By now all of the halflings are snoring under their table in a pile along with their dogs.
Seeing others beginning to retire for the night, Thea will do the same.
The night winds down and you all head back to the Inn for a good long sleep. In the morning Micah meets you all in the common room for breakfast. He doesn't appear to have slept at all.
Sorry I didn't join you all last night, I was busy selling our goods. He looks rather happy with himself, as always, but then grows a bit uncomfortable. I...I'm not sure I'm going to be able to join you tomorrow. I think, uh...I think I'm better suited to the buying and selling side of things than in the actual adventure. But at least I have one to tell the grandkids! He chuckles. But I do have a line on a regular buyer for out findings! And a possible lead on another sword to bring along.
He goes on to explain his plan of working on merchant connections in the city while everyone is off on their adventures.
---
The day passes uneventfully and you have plenty of time to make any last minute preparations. The doors of the necropolis will once again be opened at dawn the next morning.
Thea will be up and ready to go early that morning. She is hoping for an easier and more profitable run for today.
Nevai and Skyblazer are ready to go early the next morning.
Tunar awoke early in the morning at his parents farm, having spent the night at the Whispering Stone. It had been a long night and his mouth was still a little dry from all of the drinking.
By the gods, how did I get back?
Wincing a little as his head spun round and round like an angry croc in the midst of a death roll. Before pulling up his mostly empty waterskin and taking a swing of ale Nothing like a little ale to cure a headache.
Getting to his feet he tried to remember what had happened the night before. He remembered heading to the Stone in hopes of getting hired by one of them adventuring parties. He was sure at least one of them would be interested in more muscle once they faced whatever nastiness was sure to lie in those tombs. He hadn't had a job in a while and it seemed like a pretty good way to earn either some gold or a share in whatever might be found. Unfortunately, he couldn't remember if had actually succeeded or not.
Feeling a new bruise on his jawline, right along the rather horrid looking scar that ran from jaw to brow, it was at least evident that he had managed to get into a scuffle the night before. Too bad I don't remember it, the way my jaw feels I'm sure it would have been worth remembering. Tunar began to dress himself, his body a display of what some what call savagery, though Tunar happened to the scars in a positive light. A reminder of all of the many enjoyable fights he had gotten in.
Strapping his Greatsword and Lucern Hammer to his back, and pulling the rest of his gear together, Tunar headed out of his small room to see his parents. Greeting them briefly and apologizing if he had awoken them the night before. His parents were used to him showing up on occasion and smiled and asked him to stay for breakfast. Not much in the mood to wait, he was afraid that he might miss a final chance to join up if he delayed too long, he quickly suggested a quick breakfast.
Filling both of his canteens with water and making sure his waterskin was filled with ale, Tunar wished his parents goodbye before heading back to the Whispering Stone. It would be best to make sure that he had in fact not been contracted on the previous evening, before trying to go and bother the gathering groups at the Necropolis.
Leto says goodbye to Micah over a few drinks, but is fresh and ready early in the next morning.
Micah greets everyone in the common room in the morning. Great news! I found a fine example of a warrior to join you all in the next expedition. He's a little rough around the edges and...well, he's not as good looking as me, but he can fight. I made sure of that!
He laughs and lounges back in his chair enjoying his breakfast. A few minutes later the door to the Inn opens and he straightens up, And here he is now!
He stands and claps his hands together in excitement, then waves to the newcomer, Introduce yourselves. Be nice. He gives his best rogueish grin. And hurry with that breakfast. It's almost dawn and the gate will be open soon!
"It is a pleasure to meet you. I am Nevai Alaro, and this is my friend Skyblazer," Nevai said as he motions to the falcon on his shoulder. "During our first expedition into the necropolis we ran across a few situations that would have benefited from having one of your particular stature to help out. I'm sure today's exploration will be quite interesting."
Skyblazer peered intently at the newcomer before vocalizing softly, "Kik Kik, kreeee."
Turning to the falcon, Nevai whispered, "If Micah picked him out we should be able to trust him. Even if he does look like he just stumbled out of a tavern brawl. I'm sure it will be fine."
Erei tries to avoid getting too intoxicated and smiles.
Good to meet you. Hopefully you are ready to face whatever dangers we find. There were...a variety...the last time we set out. I must admit, I was more shocked by the variety than the difficulty. But hey, there was a lot of money to be had.
A right good thing he found me, I doubt I would have remembered our conversation on my own
Tunar smiles cordially before returning the greetings. He speaks in a loud voice, not so much a shout, more like what what be appropriate in a loud room.
The names Tunar, pleasure to meet you both. Your friend here was just telling me about some rather pesky snakes that you got into a scrap with.
I have two conditions for my services:
One, mind not the drinking, it won't get in the way with me fighting. I assure you of that.
Two, I know magic is common practice and like it or not a necessity to go exploring in the tombs. I just ask that you warn me before hand before doing anything weird, it tends to... 'unsettle' me a little. Tunar rubs his hands together at the mention of magic but otherwise gives no outward display of his discomfort.
If those are acceptable to the both of you then I'd be happy to join in on your little merry expedition. I admit some experience in the necropolis, but never ventured much deeper than the streets themselves. Whatever the problems are in sure a hefty swing of this here sword Tunar motions to the greatsword strapped across his back would be a fine answer.
Eyeing Skyblazer
That there bird a pet or perhaps a emergency ration if the stores run low?
"Skyblazer is a friend, and the grandson of the falcon who protected me when I was a defenseless child. My deity, Horus, intervened when I was young and apparently desires my services now, as both Skyblazer and I found ourselves drawn to this location, but have not yet discerned the purpose for our summons. Until Horus reveals his plan for us, we are content to find work here in the city, and the opening of the necropolis has provided ample opportunity.
"As for magic, know that I am a vessel for Horus's power, and I use it to serve the needs of those I travel with. If you choose to reject his aid then that is your decision."
Tunar studies Nevai a moment, his smile gone while he thinks, before he shrugs. Forgive my suggestion of Skyblazer as dinner, he seems like he would be a fierce warrior in his own right.
Like I had said fore, I aint opposed to such things, just give me a heads up if you please before doing anything fancy Mr. Vessel. I saw enough of the groups come out of that place lookin pretty banged up.
So, about this Necropolis, what sort of haul are you all expecting? I would presume the normal standards of trade would be used, an even split between all involved?
Setesh nods.
"To an extent. There is an understanding that everyone who signs on agrees to be in on this for the long haul; with that in mind, items will go to those best suited to using them, and then everything else will be sold, and the proceeds split evenly between all concerned. Purchasing of spellcasting services and healing items (such as wands of CLW) come out of group revenue."
Tunar nods
Makes sense to me. Well I haven't had much luck lately with my usual business, oddly enough, but it seems most of the traveling mixer chants are looking for more than a single man when it comes to their 'protection'. So, as it turns out, I'm quite free to see this through. Who knows, maybe I'll come out with enough to set my parents up and move into more a more lucrative line of work.
That sounds rather dull though.
Micah looks slightly confused, though also very amused. We spoke about all of this last night! I'm sure it'll all work out fine, he says as he starts ushering you out the door. Now hurry, or you'll be late!
Almathea raises an eyebrow at the request for warning before casting. "I will go ahead and give you warning now, if there is any kind of a fight or scuffle, I will be casting magic of one sort or another."
"On the subject of expected haul, it is hard to say what to expect or find. There is an equal chance of it being filled with gold or completely empty. Most are somewhere in the middle."
"If it is anything like our last delve I expect nasty traps and well protected treasures. However, since this is an actual home instead of tomb, perhaps armed traps will be less likely. There have been reports of zombies, ghouls and even rumors of mummies out and about, so there's a good chance you'll have a chance to put that sword to work."
Tunar nods towards Almathea while doing his best to talk with Micah ushering.
It was probably a bit much to ask, Micah did warn me already that several in the group had magic, I s'pose I'll just deal with it. Nothing a bit o' Ale can't help.
Though Zombies huh? Well can't say I necessarily like the sound of that either , not that I expected to hear much less, but as you say, I'm sure this here sword will do it just fine.
Grinning a little as he pats the giant sword again before taking himself up on his own offer to quench his 'thirst'.
So I be ready myself, as this handsome fella here was saying, don't want to miss the opening.
Tunar cheerful says as claps Mica on the back.
At some point during the walk to the gate, Nevai notices that the scars are gone from your foreheads. Apparently the spell wore off slightly earlier than predicted.
This time the ceremony is so brief that it leaves you wondering why it was so important to be here. The priestesses say a few words, the gates are opened, and the parties are allowed to once again venture into the necropolis.
The walk to your new site is quiet and uneventful. The necropolis is deathly silent as the sun rises over the ruins.
---
Sandstone walls ten feet high enclose this estate, affording those who once lived inside some privacy. A two-story stone house is visible beyond the walls, adjoining the rear wall of the property. In the center of the estate’s southern wall stands a pair of tarnished bronze gates hanging partially open. A pair of statues flanks the gate. Dusty hieroglyphs are carved into the wall at eye level to the left of the gate.
The bronze gates are decrepit and appear to have been broken open long ago. There is no means to secure them, and they would not stand much punishment.
---
The statues depict two men with a regal bearing and dressed in loose, short robes and traditional Osirian head cloths.
"Perhaps the gods are smiling upon us this morning and have granted us a reprieve from our embarrassing marks. Or perhaps they just wanted to give a clean slate for the next blunder we run across.
"These statues appear to be of Pentheru, the younger and the elder. Perhaps a father and son? Does anyone know much about them?"
"Skyblazer, is there anything moving around inside the walls?"
Skyblazer takes to the sky and soars above the compound.
I welcome you Tunar! I´m sure we will work nicely together, i don´t use any magic Leto smiles as he taps Tunar on the shoulder.
What do the hyroglyphes on the statues mean? I should really learn that language myself sometime soon. Might probably be very useful around here.
Tunar looks slightly relieved.
Wonderful, I'm glad to hear it, I was starting to worry Micah had been lying when he said not everyone used magic. Pleased to meet you as well, I look forward to working together.
Can't say I've heard of either of em.
Tunar shrugs and moves to inspect the gate some. I could just club it open, might not be the quietest of entrances but should do the trick if need be.
Setesh tuts.
"Now now, there is no call for that... They appear to have already been broken open, and some time ago, if I am any judge of it. Why don't we simply try opening them, first, before we move on to demolition?"
Skyblazer floated down to perch on the nearest statue, ruffled his feathers and cocked his head towards Nevai.
"Kiirekeke," he chittered before taking wing again to search the side alleys nearby.
"Skyblazer says there's something big inside the wall. It's too big to be food, so he's going to go find something more interesting to hunt for now," Nevai translated.
I suppose the city would be happier if we didn't go about smashing things. Oh well, a gentle push it'll be then.
Let's see if we can find what ol' Skyblazer is seeing in there.
Tunar will move up to the gate and try to open it.
The gates creak as they swing open.
---
Dust and sand cover the ground of this small courtyard. To the east and west stand pairs of columns, once brightly painted and now bleached from the sun, which support stone archways leading to other section of the property. Tarnished bronze gates hang open under both arches. To the north, a small flight of steps leads up to a pair of ornate doors in the south wall of the house between another set of columns.
---
Setesh nods in the direction of the western archway.
"I can here something moving through the mud over there... Shall we check it out first, or try the other direction?"
"That must be what Skyblazer noticed. Probably best to make sure it's not dangerous before we head into the house."
I heard that too. Just wonder if there is some water or mud here and why. Let´s sneak over there!
Leto points into the directions and gestures the others to approach silently. He himself clings to the shadows, drawing his bow and walking over on tiptoes.
After looking at the statues and the inscriptions, Almathea says: "The hieroglyphs read “House of Pentheru” in Ancient Osiriani. Those small hieroglyphs on the statues’ bases that identify the figures as Pentheru the Elder and Pentheru the Younger."
When it is announced that something may be coming towards them through the mud, Thea will move towards the doors and put her back to them. "Are we waiting for whatever it is, or just going on into the tomb?"
Tunar nods in agreement to investigating the source of noise, trying to move quietly in the same direction as Leto (though giving the Archer his space), drawing out his greatsword as he moves.
He can't help but make an offhand comment about potentially getting to put his sword to use which, in typical Tunar fashion, is louder than the situation warrants.
Setesh frowns at Almathea's comment.
"I thought this was a manor, not specifically a tomb...?"
He then cautiously edges forward to the west...
As the group continues to make noise there is a sucking pop as if something has risen out of some mud and a loud chittering sound.
"That doesn't sound good!"
Thea looks over at Sateesh and gives a little shrug. "This whole area is pretty much just one big tomb since it was sealed to prevent the spread of plague. Those afflicted were left in here to die, some in their own homes like the one before us."
"Uhm, does anyone know what makes chittering sounds like that? Hopefully something harmless and fuzzy?"