Naki looks up, "Please preserve the head, I'd like to examine it, also maybe the spine?"
Adrien's face turns somber as he gazes at the orb.
"This thing... it's evil. It's like those black vines we found at the menhirs. It seems to be... pointing towards somewhere... How do I even know all this? I've never seen or heard any magic like this in my life!"
Jazzai looked at Peacock. "It is communicating of a sort I think. Is it really evil?" Moving to Kane.
"Kane, I don't want to ask you to do this. I will do it."
Watching as Jazzai and Kane prepare for the unfortunate task, Adrien seems conflicted.
"I'll be in the other room," he says, excusing himself and seemingly trying to contain some emotion. "Please let me know when it's over."
"Kane, I don't want to ask you to do this. I will do it."
"Jazzai, this is my job. It doesn't matter if you want me to or not. It is my duty, given by my order and my Lady, to bring an end to those things which need endings."
"The struggle lies int he decisions, not in the act."
"I wish every decision were as straightforward as this."
"If you have a case to plead that would stay my hand, please give it. If not, step back please."
Jazzai shook her head and reach for his hand.
"I..." She had no real argument to stop him just she didn't want him to have to take this on his own. Stepping back she refused to leave him but backed away and clasped her hand. Hearing Adrien leave she nodded not blaming him.
He squeezed her hand and then moved it to his heavy executioner's sword. It raised and brought it down as one practiced arc, letting the weight of the blade do the work.
The creature dies, the savage, alien light in its eyes winking out.
Naki's examination finds that the symbiont in this one also died with its host, and aside from some new physiological differences due to the rapidly grown arachnoid legs, the creature was nearly identical to the first. However, Naki notes something else. This one had a tattoo, with a distinct pattern along its back and along the inside of its forearms.
Naki will remove that patch of skin and preserve it for later identification.
Jazzai would remain silent for a bit. "We need supplies and gear if we are going to leave. What does everyone need? I can take Adrien if he wants and we can leave the clean up for you guys. Staying here is not safe for the villagers. We have to decide. Do we follow that signal or play with it to see if it can transport us where it came from. Naki, I don't think you will be welcomed into town but with the explosion it is possible that they could easily say it was an accident. Is there anything above your house that people would see as strange? I heard the roof go so I don't know if there is something above it."
Jazzai was gathering herself and the gear. She could sell the stuff from the gnolls for supplies and the like. "Naki, Sir Kane, what things do you need from in town?"
Once she got the answer she would go find Adrien. "Adrien, do you want to escort me into town? I am sorry about that in there. I know this can't be easy on you. I ..... it use to be so hard on me. I guess I developed a thick skin due to what I went through. I do apologize for calling you Peacock before."
"It's okay... as of late, there are times where I've been calling myself that in my head, so I can't blame you. Adrien replies, forcing a smile.
"I'm sorry about hiding like this. Its just... it made me think back to why I had to leave my home town; I always thought we were doing the right thing, fighting back against the unseelie fey that tormented Dawn's Vale, but now that I've seen the business end of an angry mob... I'm not sure."
Adrien and Jazzai first notice that the early morning rain has tapered off, and though everything is soaked and water drops erratically from the trees, they manage to reach town only slightly damp. The village of Trollfork seems unaware of what had occurred at the Oru estate earlier, and the sounds of the mill and the general bustle of life in a small riverfront town continue.
Climbing up from the muddy road to the boardwalk that links the village's buildings, the two can reach the small number of shops that make up the bulk of Trollfork's economy. They can find plenty of provisions in the form of salted and dried fish, pickled marshplants, and the like.
Along with mundane gear available for purchase, the Temple of Desna has a selection of potions and scrolls. A small shrine dedicated to Hanspur floats on a permanent tangle of driftwood that is tended by a crotchety old man just upriver from the village proper. Despite that fellow, the rest of the Trollfork villagers appear at least cordial, and some of the shopkeeps are actually friendly.
However, there is an undercurrent of unease amongst the villagers. Numerous folk seem bothered by something.
The sound of rain falling to the ground, the squish of mud under her feet only reminded her of things she would need to get. "Adrien, let's make sure to get you some clothes and clothes for the others. I don't want any of you getting sick if I can help it." Jazzai would walk with Adrien quietly as she listened around them before they reached town. Finally she spoke up again. [/b]"I am sorry if I scared you Adrien. I don't mean to or want to. I think you are a wonderful person and want to be your friend if possible."[/b]
It was a friendly place and the sound of rain falling to the ground was hidden by the bustling villagers. As she listened to the townsfolk she listened to the idle drift of conversation.
She would smile as they went and got clothing and basic supplies first.
As she was talking she would try to gather information to see what was bothering the villagers.
Once the main shopping was over she would head to the Temple of Desna to gather some healing supplies like she had said she would.
Naki will beg off going. He doesn't want the villagers seeing his latest results so he will continue packing and studying the results.
Jazzai's inquiries about the unease at first get no solid answers, but eventually she is able to bring a kindly old lady around while she helps her pick out a selection of wet-weather gear. The fey, child, she whispers. Something's stirred up in the nearby swamp -- faerie rings showing up all around -- and there's been tricks and pranks even within the town. Ronen said Dr. Oru had visitors last night. Are you them? She's friendly enough, but seems particularly relieved that you appear to be purchasing wares for further travel.
Later, at the temple, the three adventurers are engaged in a discussion as you approach, which immediately cuts off when you enter. The temple is a modest, wooden affair that has two main entrances -- one being off the boardwalk and the other being a boat launch, since the building half-hangs out above the river.
Jazzai! Llewellyn brightens a bit when he sees her, and searches his memory for Adrien's for a half-second. How do you fare? Everything cleared up from that experiment?
Ronen looks less enthusiastic to see you (and there's a less enthusiastic tone of voice when he greets you), and Jarrvik positively glowers. He grunts wordlessly in greeting.
How's Dr. Oru? the bare-fisted fighter asks bluntly.
Adrien follows along quietly, keeping a wary eye out. He knows many villages are unfriendly to fey. He opts to let Jazzai speak for their group. Apparently, Queen Swandove's gift has made him a great liar, but he has no confidence in his ability to speak diplomatically.
To the old woman she smiled. "Yes, Dr. Oru was kind enough to let us stay at his place. Have the tricks and pranks been harmful?"
-------------
Smiling as she heard Llewellyn. "Hello, Llewellyn. We fare well. Most things are cleaned up. Still a mess. Part of the roof I think is gone." Jazzai can hear the cheerfulness in his voice. "I have a little scratch that will heal overnight. I heard the fey have moved into town? Is that true? Do you know what has them riled up?" Looking in Ronen and Jarrvik's direction she turns to them.
"Dr Oru is doing well. Though don't expect him to come to town. The experiment was...how would he put it. Interesting? We are buying supplies to get ready to leave unless we may be needed here. We may be able to help with the fey."
EDIT
As the fey are being discussed, a thought runs through Adrien's mind.
"Um... about the fey... do you know if anyone saw them?" he asks. "Did they have... feathers?"
The old woman shakes her head. Nothing too serious, but Norris twisted his foot pretty bad on the boardwalk board that was turned loose. And Walver's hogs got into one of the grain stores after they'd been cut loose. No one I know seen them, but the faerie rings are proof enough it was them, she says.
-----------------------
Llewellyn nods. Lots of evidence of fey pranks and other mischief. That was one of the reasons why I stopped by. To see if young Adrien knew anything about that. I'm not saying he did anything, but he might know why they're here, he says, trying to be as diplomatic as possible.
Jarrvik leans in and looks pointedly at Jazzai. I'm a little concerned that Dr. Oru didn't say anything when Llew stopped by. And is that blood on you? I'm going to ask you straight out: Is he still alive?
Ronen and Llewellyn look shocked at Jarrvik's accusations, but you can tell they're unsure. Hands move toward weapons, but they aren't drawn yet. Though Jarrvik's hands are balled up into fists as he waits for an answer.
"I don't know about why fey would be in the region." Adrien shrugs. "I... um... don't know anything about any pranks either."
Oh darn, oh darn, I shouldn't have gone along with dyeing those chickens... What was I thinking? Wait, boardwalk? Cut the hogs loose? People could have gotten hurt! I didn't do those!... did I?
Adrien tries to recall what he did last night, and, to his horror, finds his recollections uncertain and hazy.
Adrien looks to Jazzai hesitantly. He was certain he'd done a careful cleaning job thanks to his new magics, but apparently he'd missed a spot. Would it be better for them to mention the doctor's accident?
Jazzai sighs. "I was the one injured. Here I will show you." She lifted her top to show her stomach and the pink healed flesh and the scratch that was still left that hadn't quite healed. "Dr. Oru is alive and well. I don't mind the accusation and I understand. We are the outsiders here. Honestly the reason the fey are probably up in arms is because the dryad was attacked and mortally injured. The gate was closed to the fey wild I think. I.. am not sure if she will make it but we helped her back into her tree and all we can do is hope that she is able to recover."
Jazzai sighed softly. "I understand if you do not trust us. We are strangers but Dr. Oru's experiment went different than expected. He doesn't want to come into town because of the side effects. It would needlessly cause fear." She lowers her shirt. "I have healing magics that I used on everyone else first. Myself last. I came to get a poultice for the wound so it would not get infected and for travels. Dr. Oru wishes to travel with us to examine my friends condition."
The old woman takes an uncomfortable look at Adrien then looks away, busying herself with her regular tasks. Well, then. Let's get you what you need so you can be on your way.
_____________
Ronen nods. I want to believe you. I'm sorry to be difficult, but we need to know that he's all right, and words simply aren't going to be enough. The cleric of Desna forces a smile, but all three intently study your reactions.
Kane suddenly realized how quiet he'd been. Like the habit of stillness and his sudden dislike of brightly lit areas and being in the center of rooms, it was another unsettling reminder of how subtle the changes he was going through were.
He didn't like it. He'd always been a quieter person. Now though, it was something more. He was going to have to fight it by deliberately going out of his way to talk. The whole idea made him uncomfortable.
Jazzai smiled. "Alright. Let us go then. I'll ask Dr. Oru to come out and say hi to you. " . Gathering her things she would head back towards his house. Once there she would call out. "Dr. Oru you have visitors that insist on seeing you. Your friends are concerned for your well being."
Adrien's expression is one of silent worry as he makes sure his travel pack is ready to move out in an instant.
...here come the torches and pitchforks...
A little hesitantly Naki peeks out the door to see how much of a crowd there is. Noting that at least the whole village didn't show up he Scuttles out, wrapping his long coat as best he can around his distended abdomen and his new appendages.
The three adventurers' mouths drop open simultaneously.
After a stunned silence, Jarrvik stifles a chuckle while Ronen stammers, Does it... Can I... Do you need...?
Llewellyn turns to Jazzai. Okay, now I understand why you didn't want visitors. Sorry for doubting you. Did this have anything to do with the fey? I've never heard of something like this, but they have all sorts of powers... He can't help but glance at Adrien.
"I had nothing to do with this," Adrien shrinks away. "I was changed like this by the fey myself, and I swear by Erastil that I have nothing to do with the doctor's condition."
The doctors smug grin returns a bit, "Oh no. This is all my genius! Somewhat unexpected mind but that's the nature of experimentation! Of course it is also the reason I only experiment on myself... But the townsfolk have always been a tad closed minded..."
The trio exchange a series of uncomfortable looks. After shifting on their feet a little bit and a few stalled attempts and commenting further, Ronen clears his throat. Ahem. Well, if this is of your own doing... He starts to move back toward the village proper. Jarrvik just shakes his head, and joins the cleric.
Llewellyn scratches the back of his neck, and after an apologetic glance at Jazzai (that she cannot really see), he starts to move away. But before he joins his companions, he turns back to the group. I guess you're leaving then? If so, be wary of the fey, as you head out. Several folk have spotted the faerie rings just outside town.
Jazzai nodded. "Its okay and I am sorry to keep this hidden from you but it seemed the best to keep people from panicking. We will be careful and thank you for the advice Llewellyn. May your travels always lead you down green paths."
Jazzai will wave after them and it isn't until they are gone that she groans. "I forgot to ask them for some spare bandages and the like." Looks sheepish. "It is not like I had much to get a full healing kit. What shall we do now? We have a strange device, that is sending a signal some where and has the ability to transport people....though they destroy things in the process." She would help gather their things and would move close to Adrien whispering.
"Adrien, do you know anything about the fey? You seemed extremely nervous when they were spoke about. Is everything okay?"
"The last time a village was up in arms about fey, I almost ended up on the business end of torches and pitchforks, so I'll admit to being worried about that." Adrien explains.
"I... may have played a prank or two overnight, nothing mean, I promise, but I think some other feys did worse things, and I was scared it would be pinned on me," He eventually confesses.
Jazzai smiles and takes his hand squeezing it.
"It is okay. As long as it is not harmful I can't object. In my village fey were seen as a blessing and pests. If you treated them right though they were your friends even if they still pulled pranks, they made them not harmful. I know there is good in you Adrien, and I believe in you. You will find your balance." Smiling warmly at him she would hand over the items to him she had gotten for him.
"This was the first time I had money to spend on anyone so I am glad I could spend it to help a friend."
"I really appreciate this all, it's going to make travelling so much easier. Hopefully, I'll be able to pay you back eventually."
Smiles and shakes her head. "I am your friend Adrien, you don't have to pay me back. Friends take care of each other."
Observing the conversation Naki shakes his head as if not understanding the social interaction. He heads back inside and takes one last look around. He finds everything in order and is satisfied he can leave with his new study whenever they are ready.
"I'd like to investigate the fey circles they mentioned." Adrien suddenly speaks up, some time later. "They might be related to the ones I met in my dream."
Naki nods, "The fey always have something interesting to study." Realizing how that sounds he flushes, "I mean plant samples and strange inscets of course, I don't dissect intelligent creatures without consent."
"Who would give consent to that?" Adrien questions, befuddled.
Jazzai herself was curious about that answer but otherwise she nodded to Adrien. "It seems like a good idea. Maybe unwrap what is happening and see if the fey need help or can help you. We should find something to contain the items in so that the signal doesn't keep going out. That way we don't have any more unexpected visitors."
After packing up and discovering that the metal case (and its cargo) seemed to have been disintegrated along with a good portion of Dr. Oru's floor and furniture when the three enemies arrived, the group sets out. It's not far outside of town along the road leading north that they come upon a weathered sign that reads Woodsedge: 60 mi.
Just beyond the treeline of the woods flanking the road, the group sees its first faerie ring. A small circle of pale toadstools show up in sharp contrast to the dark brown of the rich loam. Several more rings can be seen on the ground a number of paces away.
"Father always said Faerie rings spontaneously rise when there has been some sort of fairie magic at work. When powerful magics are used, sometimes he magic lingers within the rings and strange and unpredictable effects can happen to any mortal that steps in one. Part of me is curious to see if this is one like that I will admit."
"I wonder if these are from Thistlefeather..." Peacock wonders idly, focusing his attention on the circle. [b]"I've never seen anything like this before.
Kane knew little about the fae. "What should we expect?"
"Anything." Adrien said. "If living in a fey-troubled village for my entire life has taught me one thing, it's that you never know what they might do."
"Wonderful." Kane rumbled flatly.
Naki looks more and more excited, cleary he has no idea what he is in for, "Ah field work, this will be a wonderful new experience!" His legs dance in place showing off his excitement.