Maxim nods and winks at Marigold;
"More trapped treasures to liberate as well Lil' Miss... as well as them angels 'course..."
At the mulling of the next move, the gun-mage makes his choice plain;
"Redgorge don't offer me much save sufferin' the punchable face o' that darn fool Arlintal. Cauldron... home would be my first port o' call, but I understand they'll be the more charitable amongst us who'll want to listen to the supplications o' the Chisel an' its rebellion."
Taking a final puff of his stogie, he smiles wryly;
"Course, them Chisellers ain't short o' a few Suns. Could be they might be convinced to fill our coffers with first dibs, an' fair price on some o' our liberated treasures?"
After some discussion on the proctors Kikinnin is convinced to let Marigold manage them, despite his own values and thoughts. Likewise the group discusses about the convenience to head first into Redgorge or Cauldron, but whatever is the decision Ryan's spell is not precise enough for a direct take.
When the group is ready and farewells are given to Marigold and Juraan, Ryan grasps the metal fork in one hand and lends the other to the other cauldronites. Two less than the number they arrived join their hands as the spell takes them. The land around distorts, the bone walls of Occipitus skull and the familiar face of Marigold, suddenly changing in a whirlwind and becoming once more the familiar sky of Golarion.
Not surprisingly, instead of the familiar stone walls you were expecting to find, you find yourselves thrown into the midst of a vast jungle. Bamboo plants and green wig bushes entangle you, while a cloud of mosquitoes flutter around you, their calm existence broken by the heroes appearance. On the distance you do hear a chimpanzee shrieking and you glimpse a small snake hiding from your presence.
Ryan looks at you, making sure you have a clear idea of whether you wish to land in Redgorge or Cauldron. By the familiar landscape, it is clear you are still in Sasserine's island and his teleport will sure work.
Looking around Ryan shakes his head, "Well we're back on Golarion anyways, and appears were back in the jungle once more. Unless you're deadset to chisel a bit of coin out of them in Redstone, I'm up for going back to the temple in Caudron and from there we can work the rest out."
"That would be best. I must say, all this travel by magic makes all my learning to ride and knowledge of landmarks and how to find clean water... feel very irrelevant" sighs the youth.
"Guess Alek would say I should have stuck to my studies."
A genuine relaxation comes over Kikinnin, despite the sudden humidity of the surrounding forest. As Ryan assures them they're close to returning to Cauldron, the black beard nods his approval.
"I'm ready when you are, Ryan. Your magics are impressive, I won't deny it. Shifting from one world to another, that's quite powerful magic Abadar has given you."
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Reassured by Kikinnin and JJ's words, Ryan moves a hand while raising another blessing to Abadar. The god of commerce answers back and the jungle sounds and vegetation are left back once more, the humidity is exchanged by the familiar smell of wax and wood as Ryan, Kikinnin, JJ and Maxim materialize in front of Abadar's altar at St. Cuthbert's Cathedral.
Two acolytes are disrupted on their task of renewing consecrated coins at the altar's sanctum. They fell back to their ass at the sudden appearance and a couple golden coins roll through the stone hitting Ryan's feet.
They acolytes, a young boy and girl look at the man agasp "It's him! It's Lord Taskerhill..." the boy is frozen at place while the girl stands up and exits running through the chapel's back door "It's them! They have returned!"
The familiar place is unmistakable. You are finally back in Cauldron.
Reaching down and picking up the golden coins, Ryan presents them back to the acolytes along with a few more.
"We have returned, but my uncle is not with us, I imagine he is either at home or checking on his various projects. Would you be kind enough to inform Mistress Jenya that we have returned. And where can we find Sir Alek Tercival?"
JJ nods enthusiastically. "Is uncle Alek any better?" he asks urgently.
"Y-ye-yes" the boy picks up the offered coins while looking at Ryan like whom is watching just a ghost "Of-of course the High Priestess. Sir Alek Tercival, h-he is at the nursery Sir. H-he is still we-ee-ak, but recovering"
Short after the boy manages to finish his sentence the girl returns. Jenya Urikas and Ruphus Laro follow her behind. The High Priestess takes the lead "By the mysteries of the First Vault! Where have you been!?" the woman seems serious, but her visage soon turns to happiness "Your half-elven friends took Alek here almost two weeks ago talking hard to believe stories that you were following strange omens. Are you ok?" the woman looks at your back like trying to find someone "I see two of your friends are missing. I hope your mission has not turned too tough"
"Umm.." starts JJ.
"Marigold and Jurran stayed back to do some research about the place we ended up." he tries explaining.
"Can I see uncle Alek? What happened with the challenge? What else has gone on in Cauldron while we have been away?" he fires off the questions like an archer might arrows, anxious to find out news of his home.
"And Sara... I need to see her too."
"Yes, of course you can check with Alek, he is at the nursery" Jenya nods to JJ.
Ruphus explains about the last news "Redgorge was under siege. Fortunately the appearance of Alek and his retreat on the challenge on Terseron Skellerang eased things up. The town was finally not attacked but a group of Cauldron soldiers maintain a permanent watch at the town. The Stormblades managed to capture Maavu though, he is at the city barrack prison awaiting his death sentence"
"They barely made it though. They were attacked while they were taking Maavu to prison and Todd Vanderboren was killed in the ambush" completes Jenya.
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Ryan turns to Ruphus, Can you escort JJ to see his uncle? I'll report to Jenya, filling you in later. I'm sure Kikinnin would like to check in on Gemma and Maxim his Uncle Aldrick as well. I believe his hip flask is woefully short of rum these days." Ryan finishes with a smile.
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"And his pouch of tabac.." chimes in JJ.
Still, the comment is called over his shoulder as the youth is already heading toward the nursery when the news sinks in.
"Todd was killed? That isn't good. I mean I didn't like him, but.." the news that another young man from the city has met an untimely end seems to sober JJ up a bit.
"I'd best go see Alek."
Kikinnin knows that Gemma can wait, and is not far away, likely in the same Nursery as Alek. With Jenya here at hand, Kikinnin has a mind to remain, and listen to Ryan's accounting of their journey to Occipitus and back.
When he hears about Maavu and Todd, he thinks on his own, and what they've almost lost in Marigold's... transformation.
"Is Todd's family choosing to bury the boy, or bring him back from the dead? Are the Stormblades willing to see him returned to life? I mean, wouldn't we all have, had one of ours fallen in battle?"
Kikinnin stands by Ryan's side, and waits to hear the priestess debrief the priest. He is very intent on listening and witnessing Jenya's reactions to the story of the demon plane.
Maxim takes in the news with a hardened expression;
"Well I fir one ain't gonna cry none o'er that weasel faced whelp. Would've paid good coin to have seen the basterd die slow like. An as fir Arlintal. Man's a rabble rouser whose brought it upon hissel'. Does mean they'll be properties an' business ventures to be had once he's danced the rope jig. Might sever ties with my Uncle an' go into trade for myself... Food fir thought.
The canny dwur mulls the state of affairs before nodding at Ryan and JJ's acumen on his supplies;
"On the money the pair o' ye. Both pouch an' flask are near emptied. Sorrowful state of affairs..."
"Of course, come with me JJ" Ruphus Laro offers himself to bring you to Alek. JJ will find the man laying down in the nursery's bed but awake.
At the altar, Jenya tries to answer Kikinnin "I only know it was an ambush at the streets of Cauldron, there are rumors that the Handcrafters attempted to save Maavu, but I really have not talked with any of the Stormblades. I do know the story only from second hand and I have no idea what are the plans about the body"
Jenya nods to Maxim "It is bad for Cauldron to lose a merchantman but, let's be pragmatical, if Maavu is finally executed, it is just good that someone steps in to maintain alive his many businesses roles in the community needs"
And turning to Kikinnin again "As Ryan said, you should meet with your sister Gemma. You should be glad to know she has finally waked up and she is quickly recovering"
"As for the rest, the city is still recovering from the riot days... thinks are under a calm tension, and there have been some artisans and merchants that have closed their shops and left to other lands" Jenya puffs "Revolts are not a good thing for business"
JJ heads off to visit Alek.
"Hi there uncle Alek! How are you feeling?"
He asks, somewhat warily.
"I'm not sure how much you remember... you were in a pretty bad state when we caught up with you, and then that demon attack.."
Ryan nods to Kikinnin as he chooses to remain behind.
"Do we know who actually killed Todd Vanderboren? Since he was returning Maavu for trial one would think someone did not want Maavu brought back to Cauldron." Ryan ask Jenya before getting down to the report.
"We've been gone a while and a great deal has happened in that absence. We've been to Redgorge, the jungles of Sasserine, the sands of Osiris, and the Plane of Occipitus. Marigold and Juraan have remained behind in Occipitus for the time being. Marigold has been touched by the pane as evidenced by her now smoking eye, yet she is also ruler now.
JJ has met his grandmother and now carries Alakast with her blessing.
The Plane of Occipitus was part of the Cagewright's plan to rule, so with Marigold in charge now they have lost that option."
edit****
"Is it you? JJ?" Alek Tercival seems still a bit confused, but he looks much better now "I remember a dream, and I do not know if it was true, you were fighting with Nabthatoron JJ, we were fighting together, and we won"
"I have heard The Chisel did" responds Jenya, she then listens carefully at Ryan's long report, posing questions and acknowledging the cleric decisions "I think you acted properly given the situation"
"So... your halfling friend is now in charge of that plane? It sounds like a great responsibility, but I am sure she is ready to cope with" Jenya's smile somber a bit when it comes to the future of Cauldron "The news you bring about a group of schemers planing the return of a Demon Lord and sit at Cauldron is most worrisome. I do not know what can we do, but you can count with my help if you need healing or information. Do you have any plans on what to do next to thwart the plans of those Cagewright's?"
At Jenya's words Maxim smiles wryly;
"Exactly. Servin' the community... especially them folks with deep pockets."
He mulls the circumstances of Maavu's capture and the death of Vanderboren, then chimes in further;
"Poison ain't the Chiseller's style. Too damn honourable, even fir a bunch o' rebels. Nah... notion that they took out the Weasel is bull-skit. Easy way is to have a chin wag with Arlintel. Look 'im in the eyes... He's a smart ass, but never struck me as the assassination type."
The gun-mage eyes his fellow dwur;
"Nogen spiller spil med os igen. Nogen leg eller politisk dukketeje? Det kan ikke være sikkert. Det eneste, jeg ved, er, at dette ikke føles rigtigt."
"Someone is playing games with us again. Someone's play or political puppetry? Can't be sure. All I know is this don't feel right."
"I only know it was an ambush at the streets of Cauldron, there are rumors that the Handcrafters attempted to save Maavu, but I really have not talked with any of the Stormblades. I do know the story only from second hand and I have no idea what are the plans about the body... As Ryan said, you should meet with your sister Gemma. You should be glad to know she has finally waked up and she is quickly recovering."
Kikinnin heartens to hear of his sister. "Well, that's welcome, when there's little comfort to take from other news." He almost excuses himself immediately, but he waits with interest to hear Ryan's full accounting to Jenya, before he does.
"Something doesn't sit right, with Maavu. His sentence, is it what we would expect for someone who roused the people to attack those half-orcs? Maavu had his suspicions about the government of Cauldron, and we're painfully short on allies at the moment." Kikinnin leaves his concern for Marigold and Juraan aside to concentrate on those at hand.
When Maxim speaks up regarding Arlintel, Kikinnin nods. "Not sure how easy it'll be to gain an audience with a dead man waiting, but if you decide to try and visit him, I'll go with you."
"Avtalt, selv om det ikke føles som mye har endret seg, selv nå. Hvis Meiselen ikke konfronterte Stormblades, hvem? Hvis vi var de som hadde brakt Maavu tilbake oss selv, ville vi ha latt det samme bakholdet?"
"Agreed, though it doesn't feel like much has changed, even now. If the Chisel didn't confront the Stormblades, then who? If we were the ones to have brought Maavu back ourselves, would we have suffered the same ambush?"
...
Kikinnin finally takes his leave of his friends and Jenya, walking the halls of the Church of St. Cuthbert to find his sister. For her last words spoken to him, likely, he wonders if she'll remember her time deep in sleep.
When he sets eyes upon her, the black beard breathes deeply. "You had us worried, Pebble. Quite impossible to rouse you, must have been quite the dream to keep you away so long." Despite his armor, Kikinnin gives his sister a gentle embrace, not too long, for concern of her delicate state.
JJ thinks about offering Alek a hug, and then decides against it, rather extending his arm out in a warriors handshake.
"We did indeed uncle Alek. You were magnificent. The demon is got, vanquished back to the abyss. Kikinnin... he was ferocious, almost cut the beast in half. "
He shakes his head.
"There was a potion I drank, dulled my wits a bit..." he pauses, waits for it and then delivers the punchline himself. "And yes, it has worn off. It gave me tremendous strength though. That really helped. And the odd mirror maze. Which you found your way through by yourself."
He offers his uncle an appreciative smile.
"But now we are all back in Cauldron.. well, not all. Marigold and Jurran have holed up in a piece of the abyss. Somehow Marigold gained control over it. Remarkable eh?"
Kikinnin finds Gemma at St. Cuthbert's cloisters. She leans on one of the columns, letting the morning Sun to bath her face. The dwarf's black hair shines with the bright light as she turns to acknowledge her brother's presence "Kiki" The girl smiles at her older brother as he fuses in an embrace.
Gemma turns again to the Sun and let's the light bath her while she maintains a kind smile. After a long pause, once the embrace unties the girl speaks up softly "The Plague is gone" after another long pause she adds "I do remember you that night. The long chase, the fear, your presence, your bravery, the slit of the hobgoblins arm. You saved me once more. Like when we were children at the Malachite and you got rid of rats to protect me"
Alek Tercival gives back the handshake to JJ, he makes an effort to incorporate himself on the bed "Yes we won this time. And he is no to return any more." the man smiles but his eyes are sad "I also drank the waters... I am so ashamed. I let myself lure by that strength. I kept going back to drink more and more, and the more I did the more I got used by the archons and their plots... I was not as strongly willed as you to resist JJ"
The man makes a long silence looking back at one of the walls of the nursery "I am so fortunate you gave me a second chance to come back and partially fix all the problems I have created. I do hope Abadar gives me life and strength to one day clean the shameful image I gave of the temple as a whole"
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Maxim mulls the situation, then smiles wryly;
"Might be I get access to him... See iffin' my Uncle can assist. Premise would be to persuade Arlintal into signin' o'er the deeds o' his warehouses an' such. Course the small print will allow him an opportunity to communicate any pertinent details he can impart on his current predicament, an' the circumstances from which it arose."
Unless dissuaded Maxim will pursue the plan and head to his Uncles...
JJ has a hard time keeping a lump out of his throat.
"No.. I'm lucky that I've got your for an uncle. And Cauldron is lucky that they have you as a protector as well." he stammers.
"And as for drinking.. .I'd have quite happily gone back for more. But those arcons... that were witches in disguise. Horrid things. And I didn't see them any more clearly than you. I was just lucky that I wasn't alone."
He reaches out a gentle hand.
"Rest now. I think we'll be in town for some time now." he smiles.
Before turning to leave he adds "I met my grandmother.." and waits to see what type of response he gets from Alek.
Ryan finishes his report to Jenya, thinking on the things she has said.
"While we were gone, a great deal has happened to us, but what has happened here in Cauldron. Who has been acting stranger than normal in the game of politics."
Shaking his head in frustration. "We have been one or several steps behind from the beginning. We need to determine how best to get ahead of the Cage Wrights."
Unbuckling the bastard sword at his back, Ryan lays it on the alter they are standing by. "Jenya, this sword is celestial made and well fit for battle against the evils this church may face but I have not the training to put it to the use for which it is made, I would request Abadar's First, a weapon for which I am trained to defend the church and Cauldron with. Should Alek recover, this weapon would be fit within his hands."
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"Kiki. The Plague is gone. I do remember you that night. The long chase, the fear, your presence, your bravery, the slit of the hobgoblins arm. You saved me once more. Like when we were children at the Malachite and you got rid of rats to protect me."
Kikinnin's cheeks burn a little redder for his sister's words, but he doesn't object to any of it. As she speaks, he takes great joy in hearing her voice again, clarion and free from addle.
"Well, as we've grown, so have the rats. So much so, they're growing bold, and running the streets of Cauldron." Kikinnin starts removing his armor, and bids his sister reach the straps that evade his immediate reach.
"For your strength, would you return to Malachite, and return your piece of heart to Mor? I would see you safe in the stone below. There are dark things afoot, and we almost lost you once. I'd escort you back, of course, and spend some time with our people."
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"I cannot protect you any longer" the paladin keeps holding JJ's hand "You became stronger than I ever was JJ" Alek's sentence sets him to rest with a deep breath like if he had been enduring a heavy weight and he has set it finally free "It's nice to know you will be around nephew"
After JJ's tells about Nidrama, Alek quickly forgets about his weakness and gets instantly interested "So who is she? How is it she is still alive?! Did she came to Cauldron with you?"
"To say truth the government has pulled back from action. After the riot they have been very careful to avoid public acts. Despite they have made a pause on the application of the last and more onerous taxes, the presence of half-orc mercenaries in the city has sprawled to take control of things" Jenya grits her teeth with a hard look "And there is this growing rivalry between the Cathedral of Wee Jas and the Shrine of Pelor. It seems nowadays everybody is growing awry and suspicious of everybody else at the city"
You do sense Jenya is being open and frank to you.
When Ryan draws the celestial bastard sword Jenya points to the altar for him to leave it there "A blade worthy of a true champion of the holy word. How did it end in your hands?" the priestess looks at Ryan's eyes "It doesn't matter. You have made more than necessary to deserve the honor of wielding Abadar's First, and I hope not having to fight on that way... Sarcem would be proud for you to carry it. It is in the Temple's Vault" Jenya takes the bastard sword and makes a sign for Ryan to follow her.
After walking down around many stairs the two reach a set of golden doors. There, Jenya draws a large golden key she holds with a chain to her neck. Placing the key in the eyehole she says "Favored is the keeper of the Vault" the doors open wide into a large arched room full of richly crafted shelves full of coins, jewels and pieces of art. Along them there are some objects clearly magical. Despite the clear wealth though, you notice the abundance has seen better times, as there are many empty shelves.
Jenya stops next to one of the shelves. You do recognize the Star of Justice, the heavy mace shines with golden light. And next to it, it lays a smaller but not less shinier mace, Abadar's First "I name you Abadar's Shield, you are a Champion of the temple now, and this is your honor. You can pick it now"
"I will return to Malachite with you. I want to see Mor" Gemma continues enjoying the Sun's light "But I am coming back to Cauldron with you Kiki. I do understand you want to protect me, but the Malachite is not safe any more. Our people fought so dearly to find the Sky, and now I do understand why. You have done enough for me all this time, I want to stay and help you"
"I don't really know. She is some type of angel, one who fell for Grandfather Criton - though he was to marry Lisa, or maybe already was married. Somehow Roland was born. Apparently he was a remarkable child. There are still some memories of him in Redgorge..."
He pauses to think.
"Nidrama has some... restrictions on her. What she can say, tell, do. Why and who is a little unclear. But she looks just like the locket."
He takes out the locket and shows it to Alek.
"Do you recall your parents saying anything about Roland? Or his parentage?"
Maxim takes his leave of his companions and makes his way through the familiar route to his Uncle Garthûn’s offices.
As he walks the gun-mage notes the continued presence of half-orc mercenaries, as well as keeping an eye out for Myrza, the young lamplighter.
Once at at the offices of Garthûn Imports he bids the guards announce his arrival to his Uncle, and settles in for a parley with the old scoundrel.
While he waits Maxim liberates some Sasserine rum from one of his Uncle’s decanters, then retrieves sundry items from his magical bag and haversack.
Gnoll MW Battleaxe (x3); Gnoll MW Suits of Studded Leather (x3); Gnoll MW Composite Longbows (x3); Small Morningstar; Suit of +1 Full Plate (c/w Black Flame symbol)... may sound him out about some of the Giant Sized items...
Finally he places the Golden Dwarf Chalice upon Adrick’s desk…
"I name you Abadar's Shield, you are a Champion of the temple now, and this is your honor. You can pick it now"
"Thank you, Mistress Jenya, Keeper of the Vault, may I ever defend Abadar and Cauldron against enemies both within and without." Taking the Abadar's First from the shelf, he attaches it to his harness. "When was the Star of Justice last required Jenya? It glows as if it was laid upon the shelf just yesterday. "
Afterwards Ryan will leave to catch up with the others, seeking out both JJ and Kikinnin in the recovery to check on their charges Gemma and Alek. Happy to see both of them in much better condition than the previous time he'd seen them. "How are you feeling"
Daxavalt and Kerg nods at Maxim acknowledging his arrival as if the dwarf has just been there a couple of days ago. Inside Adrick Garthûn mulls over the weapons and armor and soon buys it without hesitation.
"I was starting to worry about you nephew. With the riot and all I was fearing something ill might have happened to you" he pads on your back while looking for his rum and tobacco.
Pointing at Challice he asks "How much are you asking for that piece?"
"We used it a couple of weeks ago only" Jenya comments on the Star of Justice she then gives Ryan farewell as he excuses himself to visit Alek.
"An angel! Wow... that certainly explains why Roland was getting all the girls instead of me" Alek laughs and shakes his head "His parents were saying he was a spirit of the guardian of Cauldron. I guess that explains what they meant. An aasimar he was then... can you believe it" something comes to the man's head then and looks at JJ "Well... that makes you also then..."
Ryan appears just at that moment "an aasimar yourself I guess" Alek turns to look at the new arrival "Look at you! It seems your visit to the Abyss has made you grow even taller Ryan!" the paladin's smile is truthful, and it seems to clearly appreciate the visit.
Although your glimpse at Gemma let's you determine she is healed and quite ok, you find out Alek is still slowly recovering. His wounds do not seem physical but more on his own self-confidence.
"Roland may have been, but I think my blood is a little thinner than his." smiles JJ.
"Still, it gives you something to think about. Wow, descended from angels."
"You appear better rested that you did when I last saw you Sir Alek, perhaps by the end of the week you'll be joining me in the training yard. I can help you return to form, much as you molded me when I was younger."
Maxim leans back in one of the opulent chairs within his Uncle's office;
"Aye Uncle. Been out of town... Was pulled into a search for Surabar's Uncle Alek. Found him a broken man; addled and a shadow of his former might. Between us, the holy knight ain't the force he once was, no matter how well he looks. Connected to some family curse or some such... All I saw was an opportunity to harvest the gold from the old knight's captors!"
He chuckles, trying to let the tale slide without any further scrutiny...
:
... before drawing attention back to the chalice;
"Treasure's such as that chalice. Tis' indeed a mighty fine piece. As fir value... believe it to be in the region of three hundred an' fifty suns. To you Uncle - nothin'... A gift from a nephew whose been away too long."
The gun-mage flashes a smile as he accepts a fine cigar of Sasserine tabac.
"So tell me of the city's news. Hear tell Arlintel is captured an' facin' trial for the foul assassination o' Weasel Vanderboren. Bad business... fir him. Me I see an' opportunity..."
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Ryan's words quickly inspires Alek into a better mood. The man grins feeling still useful "How is your riposte swing doing? Have you finally controlled the balance with your shield?"
Alek looks then back at JJ "Ryan, I saw your connection with Abadar while fighting Nabthatoron. JJ here wants to know more about his grandmother. If she really is an angel, perhaps you are able right now to request her assistance, given Abadar's will"
Garthûn listens interested to the partial story and demands no further clarifications. When it comes to the chalice his eyes shine with greet "You are a truly great nephew. Pick as much rum and tobacco you need from the shelves"
"Yes, that Maavu Arlintal made his own doom. Revolting the streets like that! It is no surprise the government issued a capture reward notice." Adrick nods while the details about Vanderboren's death are explained "Useful fools those Stormblades, I am grateful they managed to shackle that naive merchant and bring it to justice. Despite the rumors saying the assault was made by The Chisel to save Maavu, I am not that convinced. Why did they not finish with the merchant but instead with Vanderboren? Don't know... but I would not be surprised that was targeted more at the would-be-heroes than to the merchant"
You would notice despite the general difficulties and impoverishment Cauldron streets are suffering, Adrick's warehouse seems pretty well supplied, and you could tell at least a new set of stuffed boar heads.
Maxim flashes a smile at the old scoundrel's offer;
"Rest assured I will re-stock my flask an' tabac pouch Uncle. Har!"
He leans back, mulling the older dwarf's take on Maavu's arrest and Todd's murder.
"Fools there are. I also don't buy the Chiseller's involvement, but who else could gain from the weasel's death? Whole affair is murky as a good wheat beer. Still you seem to be doin' well despite the unrest eh?"
The gun-mage takes an appreciative sip of his rum before continuing;
"Been ponderin' on Arlintel's business affairs. Rather than just lettin' it die with the man, what about we actively pursue their acquisition? I could operate 'em under your patronage. Sorto' like a fiefdom, but usin' my own connections to mutually fill our coffers. 'Course would need to get access to the man... bend his arm to sign somethin' official an' bindin'... That somethin' you could swing Uncle?"
"That's it. Cauldron's government has certainly reasons to see him punished as warning to other would-be-revolutionaries. But they already have him and beheading him would be also seen as just once his trial is done. And I cannot think of others gaining from his disappearance, despite perhaps us" Gartûn smiles in good mood "Because of that, I think the attack was more targeted at the Stormblades themselves, profiting Arlintal as a proper cover"
"And talking about our own benefit..." Adrick's eyes glow with greet once more, but this time twice as shiny as Maxim shows the honey to his nostrils "You are a cunning heir, nephew. If you are able to strike a deal with him in exchange of his freedom we can build up a near monopoly on Cauldron's trade and still maintain an image of fairness" the dwarf nods "Give me a couple of days to move some strings and request some favors back. I think I can obtain an appointment at the prison so you can talk to him."
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"How is your riposte swing doing? Have you finally controlled the balance with your shield?"
A somewhat sheepish grin crosses Ryan's face. "I can swing a sword but my riposte is still woeful. Can't seem to switch from the endweighting of my mace to the balanced swing of the sword, perhaps I should take up the axe like Kikinnin. The weighting would be the same however might have to worry about it getting stuck in something. My shield on the other hand is balanced quite well, I've been able to use it to maintain JJ's pretty face here when something else was trying to rearrange it. He has a habit of leaping in before looking." Ryan says with a friendly grin at JJ to remind the ranger he was joking.
"Ryan, I saw your connection with Abadar while fighting Nabthatoron. JJ here wants to know more about his grandmother. If she really is an angel, perhaps you are able right now to request her assistance, given Abadar's will"
"Thank you, It's hard to believe we are mixed up in things that could need an angel's help, but your suggestion makes sense and I'd probably do well to do some research"
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JJ offers a "Hrumph"
"I was running, not leaping." he says with a note of pride in his voice.
"Umm, uncle. I'd love to stay and chat, but I've not seen Sara for... ages..."
"I will return to Malachite with you. I want to see Mor. But I am coming back to Cauldron with you Kiki. I do understand you want to protect me, but the Malachite is not safe any more. Our people fought so dearly to find the Sky, and now I do understand why. You have done enough for me all this time, I want to stay and help you."
Kikinnin gladdens for his søster's acquiescence in returning to the Malachite Fortress, but he's less excited when he hears her will to return to Cauldron.
"If you return with me, from Malachite to Cauldron again, how would you help me, help us Watchers? You're more soapstone than diamond hard, Pebble. I can't have you at my side battling the black. What would you do? Take up the Cloth, like Jenya? You're Rouradont, and I'll not tell you your own mind, but you should know that Cauldron is no safer than Malachite, if you're choosing one over the other."
The black beard makes his preparations for the journey back to Malachite, and spends what he needs to see his sister properly clothed for the underground, and both of them stocked of travel rations.
...
Returning to Malachite, Kikinnin first finds Mor, and reunites her with Gemma, before making the obligations to speak to each and every dwarf that still resides in the Fortress. He inspects Spike for any signs of recent battle damage, then checks the perimeter for breaks or weakness.
He will ask their Mor what she thinks about Gemma's return to Cauldron, if only to know her thoughts. Gemma might be ill-suited for battle in her current recovery, but her will is pure Rouradont.
Maxim nods in agreement at his Uncle's words, raising his own drink in a salute of endorsement;
"Works mighty perfectly for me Uncle. I've some research to conduct, old friends to catch up with an' other ventures to pursue on behalf o' my companions. Likely a day or three's worth o' affairs. Once completed rest assured I will call again to assess how the visitation upon Arlintel is progressing."
He smiles once again;
"Though if I may, I will trouble you for a bed for this night - my old bunk if it is still available?"
Plan's while in Cauldron (in no particular order):
- Call upon Lord & Lady Aslaxin to hock the remaining art items and anything else of antiquity.
- Catch up with Ghelve/Conduct spell research & copying (and potentially a business proposition :)
- Locate his "spies" Myrza, the young lamplighter and Irruth Mercadi, the chandler. Find out how they fare in the current unrest and offer further patronage.
- Visit Skie's Treasury to sell/trade some other loot items.
- Speak with the Church of Abadar regards a legal contract of terms for Maavu.
Ryan will take his leave with a promise to check on Alek in the morning as he heads towards the training grounds. Retiring to the church library for the evening.
Seeing what he can find out about Occipitus and Maavu's investments.
His next couple of days will involve time in the training yard, his daily devotions and a great deal of time spent walking the streets of Cauldron
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Alek excuses JJ and Ryan letting them go "I will be better soon. Your visit gave me strength"
JJ founds Sara returning home from work. The girl seems astonished to see him back and runs to jump on him and hug her with both arms and legs "JJ!!! You are back!" she starts kissing the young man "I was so scared something might have happened to you! After all these news about Redgorge and your uncle returning in such a terrible condition!"
"I have also aged! I am no longer a small little girl Rouradont!" Gemma protests but still her face is kind, for dwarven standards.
The meeting with Mirna goes swift, the dwarf happy to finally see her two children reunited "I would certainly prefer for Gemma to stay here. But if she wants to experience what being at the Sun is for a time, I will endure it"
Your inspection on Spike shows the guardian has been able to deflect all the aberrations coming from the Darklands so far. You go on in your inspection, checking the structures around the Malachite entrance making sure everything is ok. Something catches your eye in one of the garbage pools at the secret entrance to Jzadirune. Perhaps a shadow, or perhaps intuition you approach and pull out of the pool the object calling your attention. Mangled in mud and waste you find the corpse of a naked dwarf. An elder.
He is Davked.
"Count with both things" Adrick, in good mood, shows you the way to your well known bed.
The following days you request an appointment for art dealing with the Aslaxins and find time to study with Ghelve. The gnome is grateful to see you, and despite his complaints, it is clear he is happy to see his wife back too "Oh! Look at this! That spell seems totally impressive Maxim. Let's train with it" you have time enough to scribe all the scrolls and spellbooks you have found in your adventures.
Skie is also happy to see you back, and she will listen attentively about all your adventures. She seems specially impressed about all your plane traveling and your stay at Occipitus. Along with the talk, she accepts buying all the other stuff you have brought back to Cauldron.
Finally, your contacts with Myrza and Irruth Mercadi. Each of them explains you a set of rumors they have heard while paying attention at what it is said at the city.
Myrza explains "When Maavu the merchant fled the riot, a group of half-ore thugs chased him on the road to Sasserine.[/b]" and "Lord Vhalantru, one of the lord mayor's most trusted advisors, was recently tasked with protecting Cauldron from future disasters"
Irruth Mercadi says "Many of the adventurers who used to call Cauldron home have moved on to bigger cities and richer prizes. But after what has happened to the Stormblades perhaps they will just disband instead of looking for bigger avenues" and "No one has seen the government recently. They say they are hiding at the Town Hall for fear to another riot. But a fruit seller I know told me he saw the lord mayor on the road to Sasserine. He ensured me, he had journeyed to the larger city to petition their aid."
Your research is not that fruitful this time. There is just no new information on Occipitus. Whatever you found, seems written by people less knowledgeable than you about staying in that plane.
Similarly, farther away than a few landing ownership documents, you do not find anything special about Maavu's Holdings.
Knowledgeable of the god of justice, Maxim looks for the guidance of the Church to write a proposal for amendments with Maavu. A legal contract by which he transfers the ownership of his merchant possessions in Cauldron to Maxim.
Maxim enjoys Ghelve's company - as unlikely a friendship as they have, he appreciates the gnome's honesty and whimsical nature. Chuckling at the locksmith's double edged marriage he sups rum and learns magic from both scroll and Maavu's acquired spell book;
:
:
: (*Treats 0 Level as 1st Level due to School of Gun)
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: (*Treated as +1 Level due to School of Gun)
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Satisfied at his own learnings the gun-mage encourages Ghelve to take his pick from spells contained in Maavu's book;
"I'll leave this tome with you Keygen. Consider it joint owned between us. Learn what you can my friend... Least I can do to help ye."
"I'm back! For a bit at any rate. Finding uncle Alex was.... difficult."
He tries to suppress a shudder that goes through him at the memory of the jungle, the witches and the sorry state that Alex was in when found. And then another as he remembers the horrific battle with his ancestors ancient foe.
"How has Cauldron been?" he asks, a bit worried.
"Things were dicey when I left... Is Tessa okay?"
"I have also aged! I am no longer a small little girl Rouradont!"
Kikinnin puts a gloved hand to Gemma's cheek. "I know this, Søstermin. I want the Rouradont to flourish, and losing Far... well, it makes me take measure of the risks ahead." He pats his søster's cheek, taking his hand away.
"I would certainly prefer for Gemma to stay here. But if she wants to experience what being at the Sun is for a time, I will endure it."
"Your words ring wise, Mor. I can't always keep eyes on her, while my team continues our investigations of an evil still stalking the land above, but I trust her, as you do, and will make sure she has her needs met, while she finds her Path."
Kikinnin takes a deep pour of time with both Gemma and Mirna, sitting down to a good meal, and filling them both in on all of his activity. He decides, in the end, to leave nothing hidden from them. The Rouradont women are strong, and can stomach stories of his kills and their discoveries. How much his Mor chooses to share with the other clans, he'll leave it to her discretion.
...
Finding Dakved, he bellows both his anger, and his grief, as he finds yet another dwarven elder laid low by treachery. He picks up Dakved, and brings his body back to the others, where he hopes the body will be cleaned and prepared for a noble burial. He helps in any way he can, by memory of the ceremony, or by coin, to cover any expense for the Splintershield clan, should they ask.
...
Before he readies to return to Cauldron, and the company of his friends and allies, he gathers the citizens of Cauldron.
"Now, I know that times are hard as the uncut stone, but I want you to know that there is purpose for my time in Cauldron. There is something rotten, trying to see the city corrupted to its own ends, and I will do my utmost to see Cauldron rid of this evil, so that Malachite below can thrive in peace, without the threat above. When I can, I will return here, and help Malachite return to its former glory. I will try to help strengthen its defenses, more than our trusted Spike, and bring you the peace of mind you rightfully deserve. I am only one dwarf, but I'll seek help where I can. Strength of the stone to each of you."
...
Returning to Cauldron, Kikinnin helps Gemma find a place she'll be happy with, and spends time with her, finding out how best to support her in her selection of a profession and/or purpose.
St. Cuthbert has the majority of his attention, where he inquires about the other churches struggling with each other. He's interested to know which side Jenya favors, either Wee Jas or Pelor. For the time Gemma spent unconscious in the halls of Wee Jas, Kikinnin tends to lean in favor of them who've helped heal Gemma, though he does feel better knowing that Gemma came back to him in the halls of St. Cuthbert.
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Guessing Ryan learned nothing as he passed through town....
Meeting up with the others after some sense of normalcy has returned Ryan will broach the subject of Ruben. Raising his glass in a toast to the others
"Friends, we've travelled far from home in the search of safety for our homes and to bring those who were lost back into the fold. Some have remained behind on our travels, but will catch up with us when the day is right, here's to that day."
drinking his beer, Ryan orders another round for the table. "Maxim, Juraan mention the Basilisk blood might return Ruben to normal, do we know where he is?"
Maxim is happy to see Skie once again, and festoons her with tales of the strange planes and adventures. He cites the celestial treasuries that were untapped, promising the gnome first dibs on any of the recovered items.
As they chat and trade, the gun-mage puts a further proposal to the experienced adventurer;
"With much o' our misadventures takin' place upon strange planes, I'd be mighty beholden to you should you come across any items useful in such realms: travelling in 'em, combattin' their denizens, I ain't really sure. Anythin'll be considered Skie, I'll trust yer experience and canny instincts. 'Course us Watchers'll pay handsome like."
At Myrza's news the dwur merchant nods with a frown;
"Vhalantru's now the city's protector eh? Huh... Might give us some work... or perhaps even a chartership or some such. Good to know lad, well done."
He hands the lamplighter a small pouch containing 10 Gold Suns and 15 Silver Moons.
"Little somethin' fir you an' yours. Remember you ever need help or find yirself in spot... I'll back yer play. Keep doin' what your doin' an' when I return again might have a proposition fir ye."
Later, upon hearing Irruth's rumours, Maxim smiles knowingly;
"Most adventurer's leavin' town... City government hunkerin' in fear o' riots an' the Lord Mayor hisself on the road to Sasserine. Your word's speak o' opportunity to me girl... You done real well."
As he mulls her words further, the gun-mage hands over another small pouch of the same amount given to Myrza.
"Spend it as you please girl. You earned it. Keep listenin' and stay safe. You ever need me, then I'll be there - remember that. Once ah'm back I've
Maxim sits at the table, raising his own goblet to the toast.
"Ain't got the foggiest Taskerhill. The Professor's affairs were played close to his scales. Chance we could source some in say Sasserine iffin' we can't locate the Prof's supply."
He sips at the dark beer, wiping froth from his 'tache an' beard;
"Have some other chatter fir ye all to digest... Seems Vhalantru's now in charge o' protectin' the city while the governors cower in their town hall. Lord Mayor has bolted to Sasserine to pillar fir aide. Could be there's an opportunity fir us? Official endorsement from on high, chance to question both the government or Mayor... All depends on what route we take, an' who we try to curry favour with? Reckon its time we took the Minotaur by the horns instead o' narrowly avoidin' the charge each time..."
Sara sighs "Yes, mother is ok. She is working really hard for us to find some stability" she seems a bit more sad when talking about Cauldron "This is not the lively place we knew when we came first with you JJ. People is both angry and now scared after the riot. Many sellers and artisans are closing their places. The are scared of the half-orcs and the taxes"
"This is strange! He left to the uppertown just months ago! For Torag who did this to him!? What was his corpse doing sunken and hidden like that in the Malachite's!?" the dwarven seem surprise and restless, but they do as commanded and prepare a noble funeral for the dwarf. They all hear your words with attention, and once reassured, they seem to understand about your plans.
"I will be happy to live with you Kiki. Time to close up together like when we were kids once again" she makes a sign to calm down the dwarf by laying her hand on his arm "Don't worry, I will keep out of trouble. But for a time now I have started to feel different Kikinnin. Do you know that night? When I wanted to find you to tell you about father and the Fortress... for some reason I just did know how to find you. Something in my head was telling me where you stood. I followed that direction and... and I found you!"
As you inquire Jenya about the churches, she explains that "Kristof of Desna believes that Pharasma's worshipers plan to build their Cathedral high enough to block the moon rays from reaching the Shrine of Pelor" the woman seems frustrated as she talks "While it's true that the Cathedral has recently undergone some additional construction, I am more worried that the added friction between the two churches is pointing to something more"
From your walk around the city, you do understand things became calmer. But you also find out here and there, there are a few businesses that have closed doors, and not only those of Maavu. It seems like the city is restless after the last events.
It also calls your attention the works in the Cathedral of Wee Jass have almost concluded. While their doors seems still closed because of the reform, their temple has already become one of the highest buildings in Cauldron.
Skie smiles wide "Be sure the stuff will reach you. I am certainly willing to hear more tales of your plane shifting adventures"
Myrza accepts the money without hesitation "Thanks Master!"
Similarly Irruth also accepts the money willingly "I will try to listen to more stuff for you Maxim. Whatever I find out, you will be the first one to know"