We will meet you there! Francis says Be careful around the other gangs, they aren't as nice as the Guild. You may want to appeal to Irdok's sense of patriotism, but I don't know the other leaders that well.
Where do you go Poppo?
The rest of you head off toward the Undercity and arrive at the gates. Dagroar looks down at Nalia Ah Poppo just went through a little while ago, stay safe down there.
Where are the rest of you heading?
Poppo heads to the Carvers first.
Poppo you head North toward the Undercity bathhouse to speak with Idrok "Carver" Nernalt. You arrive at the large building which compared to many other buildings in the Undercity is well maintained. Above the double door to the interior of the bathhouse is the banner of the carvers, a red axe on a black plane. Standing guard outside are two dwarven guards armed with long axes.
Lady Malphason, I acquiesce to your decision, but perhaps we should get moving to the Undercity to find Maester Hedgehopper? He said to go to the Putrid Grove? Should we meet him there or find him with your allies? Do you know where they might be? If not, I may be able to contact the spirt plane to determine his location.
You guys arrive at the Putrid Grove and enter going past the front door guard. As you enter you hear an argument and quickly see who its between, Helgard von Eberich and Lord Dakrast Motylek. Mylord I didn't appoint you to the council so you could run off and get yourself killed by the Vatyra! Lord Dakrast says.
Lord Motylek with all due respect you can't expect me to sit idle in a chair. I'm a man of action not of sitting, thought that's why I was selected to join the council. Helgard responds. You notice in place of his usual robe he is wearing some finely made leather armor. Helgard is accompanied by eight men and woman wearing leather armor. They all have the same haircuts as Helgard their leader and are armed with scimitars Do you not know the importance of this battle? If we fail or take no action the Vatyra run rampant through the Undercity. Then they run rampant through Ark and next thing you know all the councilors heads are on a pike. Is that what you want Dakrast?
Of course not von Eberich. I just think its awfully foolhardy for you and your merry band to besiege an ancient castle full of Vatyra and who knows what else.
Fool hardy I am Dakrast, you of all people should know that. Besides we aren't going alone. Helgard smiles as the group of you enter, Dakrast also gives a slight grin. You also notice Francis Bedlam and Tinboy as well as five more members of the guild preparing for battle. You do not see Poppo.
Mr Hedgehopper already went ahead to speak with the other gangs. Francis says. My guess is he's headed up to talk with the Carver's First. Bathhouse just North of here, you might be able to catch up with him there. We will all meet you in the Barrens.
I still don't like this von Eberich. Dakrast continues.
You worry too much baldy, I'll come back relatively unscathed. Helgard says.
Bloody better. Dakrast finishes Lady Nalia, I'm truly sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. I've put aside an extra bit of gold for your reward once the job is complete.
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Otir, thank you for your offer. I'd love to have your help and I know you should be rewarded for your work. The problem is I'm not sure what money I have to give you. To be honest, I'm not sure if I'm being paid or not working with the Holy Order. Poppo I think has our purse but I don't know what's in it. For all I know, BobE may have it. So, a long way of saying I can't be sure I can pay you. As you've seen, we seem to get ourselves into trouble, sometimes we don't make it out in one piece. I've no idea what's in the doppleganger castle. I'd like to assume their will be treasure but I just don't know. I'd like to say I'm getting used to just not knowing but it is still mighty annoying. So, if you'd like to join us on a probably I can pay you, or an IOU, that would be fine. We could sure use the help. I'd understand if that's not good enough and you need to do something else. Very soon an anti religious tyrant named Taranor Coarek will be invading this city and killing everyone, or so I'm led to believe, so that's why I'm doing this, paid or unpaid. I'm trying to help save a city that is not my own, to maybe make a home for myself and my friends for the future.
Now move up to normal time.
Lord Motylek, thank you for your kind words. Let me introduce you to some new friends, Vynya and Archie. We've only just met Archie but he's here to help us with the Vatyra as well. We seem to be gathering a small army 3 and 4 at a time. I'm grateful for any help I can get. Should I go after Poppo? Is he in danger talking to those gangs? Helgard, what do you think?
I'm here to speak with Carver Nernalt, names Poppo Hedgehopper. Poppo tells the guards.
Eh well I usually don't work on probablies but the promise of a story and some adventuring sounds good. I still expect it sometimes down the line whether its now or later, Holy Order type like you wouldn't be a hold out. The Great Otir Teague shall follow! Otir finishes.
Well... Francis says As long as he don't say anything disrespecting Nernalt he should be fine there. The other two on the other hand, well they can be a bit erratic. Best to regroup with him at the Carvers just in case he gets into trouble with the Red Moths or Forty Thieves.
Helgard begins to speak Well I have old ties with the leader of the Moths, Edward Pin. I can go to the Ratways and speak with him. Francis? You think you can handle talking with the Thieves? Helgard asks raising an eyebrow.
Reckon I could, don't think I even know whos leading them nowadays, but I can try. Francis says with Tinboy nodding behind him.
Its decided then. Helgard says Me and the Free Enderalan Company speak to Pin and his Moths. Francis speaks with those thespian thieves. And Madame Nalia, Madame Vynya, and Mysir Poppo, and Mysir Archie go and speak to Carver Nernalt.
Eh Pacer? one of the guards at the front of the bathhouse asks the other.
Yeah Gunther? the other one says.
Weren't the boss saying a Poppo Hedgehopper were at that Four Points Jig?
Believe so Gunther. Finally the two dwarves look at you, they both tilt there head to the door and allow you entry. As you enter the terrible smell of the Undercity makes way for smell of lavender and cleanliness. Inside you see a dwarf who just has a thin curled moustache, no beard wearing a fine purple suit.
Ah you must be here to see the Master Nernalt, please follow me. You follow the foppish dwarf through the bathhouse passing by many public baths and seeing the things the accompany it. Now the master is very finicky whilst in the bath, he will only talk to you if you also enter. He pauses But you must wait for his invitation, very finicky. He leads you on towards the back of the bathhouse to a set of wooden double doors again flanked by two dwarven thugs who open the doors.
The steaming bath is occupied by three figures a dwarven man who is very very hairy. His beard is black and has several bubbles in it, but beyond the hair the dwarf also has several scars. The two other figures are similarly nude dwarven women but most is obscured by bubbles and steam. A keg of ale sits on a table along with fruit, meat, and fine cheeses.
As you enter with the foppish purple clothed dwarf, Idrok barely notices you initially and lets out a hearty giggle. The foppish dwarf loudly clears his throat. Bloody hell Boken!
Master Nernalt, a Master Hedgehopper here to see you. Boken responds.
Nernalt glares through the thin layer of steam Go on girls, important business to talk about. The two girls rise from the bath shyly putting towels on and exiting the room. Leave us Boken. Boken nods leaving the room and closing the doors behind him.
So! The famous Poppo Hedgehopper. Didn't really know who you were at the Dance but I know full well who you are now. Patches is good with information. He chuckles But please join me in the bath, have some mead, meat, fruit, whatever suits your fancy.
Well I really don't know about famous. Poppo says as he disrobes.
Stacking his things neatly to the side. Poppo pours himself some mead and then slides into the bath.
Thanks for the hospitality, I haven't had a soak like this, well maybe ever. Master Nernalt you can probably guess why I'm here. Your a well connected and influential man. He takes a sip and a moment to enjoy the bath and then continues.
I know, you know, what happened at the dance. And while it was a victory, we won the battle, but did not yet win the war. We know where the Vatyra have set up there operation. Rather than let them have a chance to regroup and rebuild, we want to strike now and defeat them for once and for good. And yes it's personal to me, and I want vengeance. But that doesn't mean it isn't the right move.
Now I know you could sit back and see what happens and probably benefit from inaction, but if we fail the Vatyra grow stronger, that hurts you as much as it hurts the Beggars or the Holy Order. So I'm asking for some help. Join forces for the greater good of the Undercity.
I plan also to go to the Red Moths or Forty Thieves and try to get them on board too. But I came here first cause I feel like the Carvers care about the Undercity and her people. Let's remove the Vatyra and then things can get back to normal.
Poppo makes his pitch, who knows if it will work?
Carver looks at you as you speak and part way through rises from the bath showing his full naked self. He walks over a fills his mug to brim with ale before tipping it back and drinking heavily. I don't think you fully understand who the Vatyra are. They aren't some miniscule cult that cause trouble from time to time. They are a world wide criminal syndicate, even rumors of connections deep under ground. If you defeat them there they will not be gone, maybe from the Undercity. But you should know that the Vatyra won't go away from one or two battles. He finishes off his mug of ale before filling it once again.
What they threw at you at the Four Points was nothing, small gangs that had become enveloped by the Vatyra. William Brown, Ogald, pawns in a game of chess. But the Vatyra were willing to send their best piece the Queen to stop you. Means one thing, they are either three steps ahead or they are scared. I'm a gambling man so my bet is on later. For the greater good of my city, sure. But I'm a business man, I have to turn a profit. Say we win what will I get in return?
Poppo tries to divert his eyes when the Carver stands up to refill his cup.
Oh what do I have to offer, I'm but a simple adventurer. I have little clout to offer, but my word. A share of the spoils? What do you seek?
Poppo asks a little unsure what to say.
Nernalt laughs You're more than an adventurer master Poppo. He gets back in the tub You're a member of the Holy Order. I want the Holy Order to dedicate more funds and people to assist in the betterment of the Undercity after this war is over. I care for this city, however dirty and destroyed it is. I want to see returned to its former glory. A promise of aid after the war and the Carvers will be at your disposal.
I think that sounds like a great idea. I give you my word as a member of the Holy Order, to do exactly that when the war is over. You do realize I'm low in the ranks, so I can't guarantee the Signet Master or Truchessa, or Grandmaster will honor the deal, but I'll definitely do what I can to see that it is. Poppo says as honestly and earnestly as possible.
Word is a strong power Master Hedgehopper, you'd do well to remember that. Idrok smiles finishing off his current mug or ale Let's hope the Moths and Thieves join as well the Vatyra will no doubt be prepared. Idrok once again rises from the tub and wraps a towel around himself. Give me a few minutes for me and my men to prepare we will meet you outside the Bathhouse.
Okay, thank you.
Poppo waits for Idrok to leave then gets out of the bath himself, finding a towel, he towels off and gets dressed quickly, and heads outside.
As you exit you see Nalia, Vynya, and another strange figure approaching.
Poppo looks amused at Nalia's comments, Glad you caught up to me! Yeah I tell ya, those troughs are really big for a little halfling. I nearly drowned. He gives her a goofy grin.
Archie is it, sent by Enil, well you can tell Enil I have a axe to grind with the last follower it placed in my life. But I guess I shouldn't hold that against you. Poppo extends a hand to shake.
Yes, the Carvers have agreed to help, as long as the Holy Order helps restore the Undercity after the war. It seemed like the right thing to do, so I agreed. Poppo discloses.
Now we just need the moths and 40 thieves on board!
You can consider me sent here to make amends for certain decisions that were made. Archie says with a elaborate bow.
Hum, I see, I appreciate that, but I'm not sure anything can square that account. We shall see.
Best get on to the Moths, then?
Poppo is unaware others have been dispatched to the other two gangs.
Archie looks abashed at Poppo. She sent me, the greatest archer in this or any other realm. What more do you want? And we have already sent people to the other groups. Come, there is killing to do.
Exiting the bathhouse shortly after Poppo is Idrok Nernalt followed by around fifteen dwarves. Idrok carries a massive hammer Alright! Lets go bash some Vatyra skulls in!
Last time the group prepared for a siege upon the Vatyra hideout in the Undercity the Archcliff Castle. The group had gathered many allies including a Helgard von Eberich, the four gangs of the Undercity, and some old friends. When they arrived they were met by a formidable army of Duergar, Vatyra agents, and a Fire Giant. The group decided to split off and go around to the side of the castle while the main forces of both sides collided. However upon nearly reaching the wall the group were beset by a young umbral dragon named Narith. It was a difficult battle but in the end the group were victorious. Moving into the castle group disabled the catapults and freed the prisoners forces to work them, while also taking out the large number of archers on the wall giving their side a leg up in the battle outside. The group then moved into the main keep, and fought a dwarf named Vesuvius and the two doppelgangers who killed their friend Turngut. The group defeated them before moving to the final floor. There the group faced Queen Vatyra, her bodyguard Eanulf, and a manticore. Through the chaos the manticore and Eanulf but Nalia Malphason was also slain. The group then managed to kill Queen Vatyra but it was revealed that she was actually something called a simulacrum and that the real Queen Vatyra was likely still at large. With Nalia fallen the group then witnessed a miracle as the Blade of the Boreal shattered and raised Nalia from the dead. However the blade had lost its magical properties and was nothing more than a broken hilt. You then regrouped with the your main force who had won the battle. However it came at the cost of Francis Bedlam who died during the battle leaving only Tinboy and one other thief left in the Guild of Beggars. And that's where we left off. Where would you guys like to go?
archie looks up Teague the bard and gives him a detailed blow by blow ie of how he saved everyone and killed a dragon And manticore with the same arrow.(which is technically true. Same arrow but different shots.) And how on the edge of death he shot the vatrya in the eyes killing her and saving his charges. He then helps escort Vynya to the bathhouses and continues his discussion with teague on how to dress her.
Vynya fan-boys even more than she's been in the past, now that she's seen everyone in action And she absolutely devours any word that Archie says, having failed so many Sense Motive checks, she simply buys anything he says.
I simply cannot believe I saw the Saviors of Vyn in action! You were all so heroic and more powerful than I have ever seen in my dreams. I do miss sweet Turngut and Herald BobE, but, oh! The great Archer from Beyond Who Has Come Near more than makes up for the loss of those 2 great champions. And, and Lady Nalia! Your steely presence is so perfectly balanced with the compassionate heart of a saint. It is so easy to see how Malphas chose you, even from the moment of your birth! And Maester Hedgehopper! You who will be known as the Citrus Savior, your bravery and ferocity in combat was astounding!
As the party enters the bathhouse: Wha-what is this? Why are we going in here? With some prodding from you and demands for modesty from her, eventually Vynya acquiesces to go into the baths, but only with Naila and the female bathhouse attendants. While in private, I can imagine Nalia ignores Archie and Otir's suggestions for Vynya garb (likely being to revealing) and helps Vynya into a plain white tunic and comfortable full length skirt allowing for ease of movement and total lack of pretension. Emerging from the bath-room, the girl who you see barely resembles the urchin that had entered. Her skin glows like porcelain and her black hair is combed and lies in a silky cascade flowing over her shoulders. Unfamilar with the attention, she twists and bites at the ends of her hair.
Turngut you suddenly see Francis Bedlam appear, he looks down at his hands and realization crosses his face. He nods in shock and then finally seems to notice you, giving a nod he follows Eroned through the Cradle.
Then for a brief second you see Nalia appear, she stands there for only a moment before disapearing.
In the bathhouse, separate room to the ladies Idrok Nernalt, Peacock Lavore, Edward Pin, and Tinboy hoist mugs of ale into the air. Tinboy says Too The King of Beggars Francis Bedlam, may he pass through the Cradle to live a life a great man like him deserves. Long may he reign! They slam their mugs together then drink heavily. Long may he reign! the four of them say.
When choosing clothes for Vynya, you are surprised when Otir Teague doesn't pick very revealing clothing but picks modest yet vibrant colors for Vynya. He is saddened when Vynya instead picks plain colors but his eyes flash and broad smile crosses the bards face when he sees her newly clothed and bathed.
Pearson, MacGuire, and Thraduik also get a room at the bathhouse likely hanging out with Archie and Poppo.
Where do you guys go after the bathhouse? You still need to pick up your payment from Dakrast Motylek. Would you like to go shopping?
plan on selling or trading the dead mans band [worth 3600] that we picked up. and get either the handy haversack [2k] or efficient quiver [1800] depending on how much we make.
bracers of archery lesser [5k] and circlet of persuasion [4500]are on my shopping list eventually
Ok sounds good, which magic shop would you like to go to? Archie doesn't know about the stores but the rest of you do. You can go to the Risen Phoenix or you can visit Xalbar the Magnificent in his tower in the Old Town.
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We visited Xalbar last time, didn't we? I liked him. I can try and make a list of stuff I wrote down this afternoon and post it. And Ben, you mentioned you'd let us know some more loot as well. We'll need to ask Poppo about our current funds, I've no idea about that.
Actually, just remembered the loot tab on Poppo's posts. Says we have +1 dagger and +1 lamellar leather on list. Could you use that Vynya?
Poppo initially declines the offer of a bath, despite that the fact that he is covered in blood and gore. No thanks already had one today. After he gets laughs from the others he looks down at his condition and says, Yeah, yeah.
He joins the others in the bath, and opens up to Archie a little bit. I just don't understand what happened with BobE, did Enil give you any idea why he would do what he did with Turngut? I'm upset and I don't know what to think. He asks the archer.
Elnil has limited what I can tell you, but the actions of heralds tends to bring about their god's goals.Elnil seeks acts of redemption. Whatever he did will bring about a redemption. When your friend arrives in the Dark Tapestry Archie doesn't finish and stares into the shadows. um yea it's all good. I'm sure it will all work out well. I dont see anything bad or weird happening
So are you guys going to Xalbar the Magnificent's or somewhere else?
Acts of redemption? Poppo mumbles, All good?
Poppo tries to comprehend Enil's plan and whether he should give a rats rip about and whether he should let go of the anger and hurt he is feeling toward BobE.
Poppo stares off into space as well, lost in his thoughts. When the other start to rise from the bath, Poppo does as well. He dresses and moves outside.
When he sees the cleaned up Vynya he doesn't even recognize her at first, Who's thi...oh Vynya, you look, Um, quite presentable. He gives her a qoofy grin.
When talk of spending and swapping treasures comes up, Poppo seems disinterested. Go on to Xalbar's or wherever else you want to go. I'll meet you back at the Sun Temple. he tells Nalia, after finding her once she has emerged from the bath as well.
And as everyone is getting ready to move out, you find that Poppo isn't there anymore.
As the group heads to Xalbar’s, Vynya casually looks around for Poppo. Oh, She says dully. Apparently, Maester Hedgehopper has gone off on his own again. I wonder if this is the time where he falls in a well and we don’t find him until the week before the invasion? I certainly hope not. That’s a very unfortunate and painful timeline. She finishes wistfully. With brief, furtive glances at Archie, she adds in a whisper, Especially for you.
At the store, Vynya expresses how scared she was during the fight and felt very vulnerable. I would be much more comfortable in something to protect me from harm. If I may be so bold to request a loan to procure some armor and perhaps a shield? if allowed, Vynya would like a mithril chain shirt, or some other lightweight armor and a light shield. If funds and availability allow, additional magic enhancement would be great! From a practical standpoint, what are we doing with Turngut’s gear? I can’t remember if Vynya got the equivalent gp value or if we have some of his gear to spend. Regardless, I’d like to keep Chainbreaker and Frostfang if we can. Those are sentimental and may come in handy IF Turngut’s “condition” can be rectified.
Before you go to Xalbar's you head to the noble quarter to see Dakrast about your pay. Dakrast smiles when he sees you and regards you all highly. He thanks you for your service to the city and Enderal. He gives you 4000GP for the completion of the Undercity job, and an additonal 4000GP since you lost Turngut and that the Vatyra involved. Dakrast will also tell you about how he intenda to put Helgard and his men to work immediately training people in the Undercity to be militia.
With your coin pouches quite a bit heavier you head toward Xalbar's. You also have Turngut's gear to use how you wish. You aproach the wizards tower and like before you dont approach the clear the door but a section of the wall which is an illusory entrance. Upon entering you see the massive unorganized spiral of books and things. Hovering mid air are two figures who look identical Go fish! one of the Xalbar's says as they notice you enter Bloody hell!
Bloody hell! the other Xalbar says. They look at each other Off with you Xalbar two! I belive I have customers. One of the Xalbars flies off while Xalbar prime hovers down to meet you. Ah well well if it isn't Lady Malphason, true condolences for the loss of your orc friend. He looks at Vynya Don't know who you are. He looks at Archie Fetchling archer, yes I think Dettlaff told me about you. You best not cause any trouble in my shop. He pauses again But anyway what can I do for you on this fine day?
I'm assuming you are heading to the Four Points?
A dogs entrails hang from its body, splayed out on the path to the Four Points. An old man pulls a crooked cart along, housing the bodies of the dead. You step upon the cobblestone road and can see four lamp posts marking four different diverging paths. Sitting on a dilapidated crate in the center of the square is a bald man wearing simple merchant clothes.
He smiles as you approach Crossroads are such an interesting thing are they not? You come from one way and then you have a choice. That choice could be right or left, life or death, wealth or poverty. He looks at you Poppo with kind but sinister eyes But even then one needn't take the clear paths but can go off road, such a choice can be very dangerous. He positions his hands together in the shape of a diamond as he stands.
What path have you chose Poppo Hedgehopper? O'Dimm smiles once more.
Well I assume, you know I have the blade already. So I doubt that's what you are asking. Poppo answers.
It's feels I'm always going off the path, but if I had to say which path I'm on, I'd say the Lemon path. He says seriously.
Despite the serious tone of the lemon comment O'Dimm still laughs Ever the comic, and lover of fruit. O'Dimm smiles As for the blade yes I knew full well when you retrieved it. And you've already got to work on those souls of yours haven't you? He walks over to you and with a raise of his hand so to comes He Who Grins, levitating in mid air. O'Dimm laughs I see you've chosen the form of an axe not bad not bad. Two tiny little thieves you've captured I see. That's ten years off your contract well done indeed. Things may become more difficult with that archer around, powerful he is, though I could squash him as easy as squashing an... he pauses Orange. He gives a toothy grin and lowers his hand as He Who Grins lowers back to your side.
A soul for five years, truth be told very generous on my part. But as the contract also dictates I require three unique souls. The Soul of the Blood of Enderal, The Soul of the Blood of Nehrim, and The Soul of the Blood of the Underdark. These are the specific souls I require, these are special in a way. If someone else slays them, like your new archer friend then you can still obtain the souls by cutting their hearts from their chests. I leave it for you to figure out who each of these souls are. Now if you need nothing else I think its time for us to follow the paths placed in front of us at the crossroads.
I understand, a difficult task, but I'm sure fate will intervene at the appropriate times. Goodbye for now Gaunter O’Dimm.
Poppo departs and heads straight to the Sun temple.
Poppo emerges from the Undercity and heads straight to the Sun Temple.