"Poking dead bodies with a spear is disrespecting them in my book. And if they are going to explode, I think you don't want to encourage them to do so by sticking sharp objects in them."
:: The Underground of Kenabres - Arodus ?? - unknown time ::
Aravashnial ponders Edril's statement. "Perhaps you are right... perhaps it is just your mind, eager to find hope while we are in such predicament. It bothers me to admit that this is a subject I'm not qualified to advise. Perhaps you should look for the Church when and if we are back to the surface world."
Lann shakes his head at Jiao Feng's question. "We had no choice, since all of our main routes to Neathholm have collapsed. From those that remained, this was the closest one and perhaps even the safest one. Here on the underground, we do not always have the luxury of avoiding some dangers..."
Dyra gives Finja an indignant look and points to Jiao Feng as she voices what the mongrel had in mind. As you approach, you discover the bodies are of two men, one blond and young and the other older with a long grey beard. Both are dressed as crusaders of Iomedae, each wearing a masterwork chain shirt under a tabard bearing the symbol of the Goddess. One of the bodies still carries a potion of cure light wounds, which bears a label from the church, while the other has a scroll within a pouch. Between the two of them, they also carry 129 gold pieces. Curiously, the crusaders are not armed with the longswords typically wielded by Iomedae's followers, but instead carry glaives and a spiked gauntlet. Furthermore, the body on which the scroll was found clutches something tightly in his fist, a small symbol of a brass bull's head with tiny red gemstones eyes.
You know Baphomet is the Demon Lord of Beasts and Labyrinths, whose is worshiped by conspirators, minotaurs an wicked secret societies. He favors the glaive as a weapon.
Dyra then calls for Lann so he can speak in her behalf. "Dyra insists that, as Jiao Feng, she was only inspecting the bodies. She wishes me to emphasize she is neither dumb nor disrespectful. These men are not from Neathholm, they are not mongrel, but we've seen others like them in the tunnels before. Actually, their presence in the tunnels has increased lately, and it appears they have formed some sort of alliance with a different tribe of mongrels, a bad tribe, that lives southeast of Neathholm, in a small complex." He shifts his weight and moves around, apparently eager to move.
Matheus says a small prayer to Desna for those whose travels have finished. "I don't think we have the luxury to look down any resource that we have at hand. One of the glaives could be a walking staff or a guiding stick to avoid obstructions for a blinded companion. Aravashnial, Anevia? Do either of these suggestions sound like a boon? Else perhaps the weapons or armor could be passed onto our new companions to help keep them safe back to their home. The shirts while too large for myself mayhaps fit others. Hopefully our luck continues to hold until Neathholm."
Mh crusaders in the underground, but not from here, who have firmed an alliance with a bad tribe of mongrelmen? That sounds bad. We should take the stuff, but handle it with care, and go. Does anyone know this symbol?
Jiao Feng looks at the symbol trying to remember if she saw it before.
"I am not so certain they are crusaders. Why would they ally with a bad tribe of mongrels? Look, they don't even carry the inheritors sacred weapon. Only a glaive. And from the scriptures I know one god who favors those, and has such a bulls head as a symbol...", Finja lifts up the brass idol for all to see, "...and that is Baphomet, the Demon Lord. Conspirators and evil secret societies worship him."
She pauses for a moment, then adds:"Of course, I can't be certain, and they did us a favor by killing this...sporecreature. But if they were really a part of demon worshippers who pretend to be part of the church, or worse, infiltrated it, then this would be bad. Really bad."
She turns back to Lann: "We should not leave dead lying around in the open. What is the custom in Neathholme regarding last rites? Bury them?"
Finja mentally prepares to start moving one of the bodies - dragging it behind her would be indignified, but better that and a proper rite than being left as carrion in some tunnel, where strange creatures could develop a taste for human flesh.
:: The Underground of Kenabres - Arodus ?? - unknown time ::
Anevia shrugs at Matheus's question. "I believe it could help, yes, for me and Aravashnial to use the glaives was walking sticks. It would at least give us more mobility, even if I think we won't be traveling faster due to them."
Once Finja identifies the symbol of Baphomet, Anevia is clearly disgusted. "For the Goddess, this is indeed terrible news, Finja! I shudder just to imagine all the evil they might have already done to the crusaders... and I fear for my wife..."
On the other hand, Aravashnial seems to be delighted. "I knew I was right! This is proof at last! I'm sure Anevia has also heard the rumors about how the cult of Baphomet, known to some as the Templars of the Ivory Labyrinth, had infiltrated various mercenary groups." He turns his head towards were Anevia is, certainly guided by his voice, and she nods to confirm, quickly adding with words by remembering the elf was blind. "Yes, Aravashnial, I've heard of them, but not even the wildest rumor suggest they were able to infiltrate the Church of Iomedae!"
The elf smiles in triumph. "I have suggest. More than once, but at each occasion I was discredited as if I was insane. Well, here is the proof. We should bring the bodies with us so the Church can identify them, if there is still one standing... I mean, of course they are still standing." You notice he added this last bit more in consideration for Anevia than anything else.
Lann shakes his head at Finja's question. "Soft earth is actually a luxury in the underground, so no, we do not bury our dead. Instead, we burn them and collect their ashes in jars... for those with no family, there is no need for the jars though." He ponders for a couple seconds before adding. "If we are to burn them, we need not to reach Neathholm to do so, but I'd advise against burning them here, for I fear that the fumes of the spore-cougher might also be poisonous."
Jiao Feng spits out in disgust and keeps her head lowered, her shoulders hunched. Clearly these are very disturbing news to her.
There's no need to burn or bury these. They are scum. If Aravashniel wants to bring one, let's do that. Perhaps it helps to uncover others of them before they can bring harm upon people. I...
She pauses a bit.
I have some personal memories about the likes of them. And i think it is important.
She looks at Aravashniel, considering.
It is important to me because i personaly saw and felt what damage they can do, undermining the believes and faith of others, sabotaging projects, torturing the innocent, dividing people untill it is too late and they openly strike out.
She takes some addition clothes and begins to wrap up the woman, which is likely less heavy to carry, securing her into a save bundle to carry, although gathering the belongings.
Let's go then, we don't have time to waist.
Darrien sighs.
Yet another reason I truly wonder if the gods are worth the trouble. we need only one of them as proof, I see no reason to carry the other if what you say is true. But, as the others suggest, let us leave this place. This creature is certainly dangerous even when dead. There was one near my home when I was younger.
"Darrien, you seem to see gods as different from we mortals. They are powerful, certainly, but many were once mortal. As there are good and bad beings, so there are good and bad gods." Edril smiles, for contemplating the morality of deific beings was far more at home for him than climbing rock faces in subterranean caves. "And we should bring both. Disrespectful of our beliefs or not, all are worthy of the embrace of Pharasma."
"Aye...they may rise as undead and cause more trouble. Or we could have erred in judgement. Or some beast may be attracted by the rotting carcass and develop an appetite for human flesh. If they are truly demon worshippers, they deserved their fate. But their judgement now is in the hands of Pharasma, we are left with their worldly remains, and the way those are handled are often for the good of the society, not just for the departed."
Finja prepares to partially lift up and drag one of the bodies, turning to their guides:"Where to?"
This discussion about the gods is moot. When there are demons, there must be gods, even if they were mortals themselves once. And if they can provide us with the means and power to defeat the demons, or protect us from them, all the better. If not, it doesn't matter either. Now let's go to this Neatholm.
:: The Underground of Kenabres - Arodus ?? - unknown time ::
Once the decision about bringing both corpses with you is made, Edril and Finja carry one of them, while Darrien and Jiao Feng carry the other. Dyra and Lann make sure to loot the corpses.
The mongrels guide you through the north tunnel, the only one that leads upward. The tunnel winds north for about 15 minutes before reaching a circular, 20-foot-diameter cavern. Four more mongrelmen stand guard here before a large stone door with rich engravings. Lann quickly moves towards them and he and his companions are greeted warmly. Lann speaks to them in a strange tongue and while the guards eye you with suspicion, but apparently Lann's word is good enough to convince them to let you in.
Two guards slowly open the doors, while the others stand still. When they are finally opened, Lann turns to you. "Welcome to glorious Neathholm, my friends!" Beyond the doors, a small, dark lake ripples in the center of a two-hundred-foot-wide cavern, the walls and ceiling aglow with thick sheets of luminescent fungi. In the center of the lake, over two dozen low stone buildings cluster on a rocky one-hundred-foot-wide island. Lights glow in the windows of the buildings, giving the settlement an almost welcoming look. Rafts made of mismatched planks of timber bob along the length of a crooked pier at the lake's closest shore.
Lann once more guide you to the pier and then into the "city" itself, which is actually a hamlet. Nervous citizens retreat to their homes as they see you as you make your way to the largest building atop the island's low central peak. It is a quite contrasting view: the people, formed by countless mismatched races and species, appear to be savages on the outside, but their clothes, buildings and manners are much alike those you are used to... actually a bit more civilized to be honest.
A couple more incomprehensible words by Lann gives you all passage to the chief's home and to a large hall where a bloated and unpleasant-looking old man sits on a throne-like chair, flanked by two other guards. The chief has sharp teeth, pointed years and the whiskers of a rat, while one of his eyes is larger and clouded much like from a blind cave fish. Now in your language, Lann reports to Chief Sull about the fallen guard post and how you helped them to return to Neathholm. Once he is finished, the chief thanks him and talks to you. "Uplanders... it has been a long time since we have received visitors. As Lann have surely mentioned, I'm Chief Sull. I've like to know your names, the reason for you to be underground and your intentions... if you are so kind to share them with me."
Matheus steps forward and bows with deep respect. "Greetings Chief Sull. I am Matheus Critchton, a member of this small band of refugees. We were cast into the depths by the great battle where the demons overtook Kenabres above. Many rifts were torn into the base of the city, we tumbled into one. So we are merely survivors and our aim is to work together to travel to the surface again to find our families and what has befallen the city as a whole in these last few days." He pauses for a moment as he says the amount of time as he ponders on how long it has been. "We were glad to help your subjects in return for aid in our passage, and we continue to hope to call upon your aid if we could. We have little and have found much danger so far." He finishes with another bow.
Jiao Feng advances next to Crichton and bows slightly.
Dear chief Sul, of course you may ask that. My name is Jiao Feng. I'm originally from a monastery in the mountains and was visiting Kenabres for a festival. Alas as my friend here said, it was attacked and most likely taken by demons. This might actually mean you are in danger down here as well, should the demons find their way. One of them, a great fiend, caused earthquakes and we fell down into the underground through some rifts. Since then we are searching for a way back home, to see the gate of the city.
At first, Finja finds herself thoroughly disgusted by the creature talking to them. Bloated, whiskers, a clouded eye...the person seemed disgusting.
But that was the teenage girl in her speaking. This before them was the leader of the people here. A position that demanded respect. And should definitely be judged on different values than superficial beauty.
Swallowing, and forcing herself to look directly at the man, Finja bowed (the armor made a curtsy difficult - aside from not looking very ladylike anyway), then spoke up:"Sire, my name is Finja. I was in Kenabres looking to join the Crusades, when the Demon Attack happened. As far as we know, the lady Dragon watching over the city has fallen to the attack, but with her dying breath, saved the lot of us as we fell into a rift that opened. That is how we came to be underground, and alive. As the others stated, my intent is to return to the surface. I came to Tenabres with my foster family and would like to be re-united with them. I came here with the hope your people may know of a way up."
Darrien smiles, as he rests his hands on his hips, I believe my companions have spoken well good friend! It warms my heart to know that even in as harsh and unforgiving place such as your people have found themselves, that kindness and good will still manage to make their home here. All I ask in addition to my companions requests is a sample of your undoubtedly exquisite cuisine, and a safe place to rest for a day.
The chied scratches his chin as you speak in turn, paying close attention to what you say. "A massive demon attack? Terrible news indeed, and dangerous too! We felt the tremors, of course, but we could never imagine the foul creatures would be able to breach the Wardstones... we are close to the end..." He trails off a bit, obviously deeply concerned.
"Perhaps you know about this, but me and my kind, may be outcasts and freaks in the eyes of uplanders like you, but our ancestors helped drive back the demons during the First Crusade. We are proud of this, even if we have suffered dire consequences." He clearly implies that the consequences are their appearance. "We want the demons defeat as much as anyone who lives above. We have actually tried to join the other crusades..."
His eyes are filled with anger and sadness. "However, we were repealed as if we were the demons themselves... "mole people"... "pitlings" we were called..." As Chief Sull tells this, you notice that Aravashnial blushes and closes his mouth. "Our warriors were greeted with steel and blood. However, we hold no grudge against you... we'll offer help once again, but only if we are asked to do so."
A messenger then approaches the chief and whispers something in his ear. He replies and send him away. "You ask for a route up back to the surface. We know of one such route, but it is a dangerous one... nevertheless, we shall not discuss it now. I can see you are tired and hungry as you, Darrien, so kindly implied. A resting place is being prepared for you. Rest. If you wish to resupply, I believe Lann could guide you. In a couple hours we'll meet again during a feast and after eating, we shall discuss further plans."
Jiao Feng eyes grow narrow as chief Sull tells about the harrassment and prejudice his people were met with when trying to join the crusades.
This is msot kind of you, chief Sull. I beg forgiveness for the ill will your kind was met with, it is no surprise to me though. Prejudice and specisism are normal up there and most people judge other by their physical features instead of their deeds and words. I'm truly sorry about that, i know how it feels, since i am sometimes met with the same, even though my heritage isn't as visible as yours.
Finjas eyes start to water as she listens to their tale, so similar to her own - even if her own fate was less tragic, she was refused entry into the ranks of the order because she was considered tainted.
And because she was ashamed - she had almost judged the chief based on his looks and had to force herself not to.
As he speaks, her resolve grows, and when he is done, she falls to her knees: "The warpstones were assailed, and the world above hangs in peril. I serve no role in the crusade, only being a poor girl that came to do what is right...those who are in command would rather lose than see their ranks bolstered by those they don't consider pure, yet they employ sellswords or low moral values. It is not right that your people were refused, not then, not now. I humbly beg your assistance, your help, not only in finding a route up but in helping to rebuild what is left, and driving the demons back beyond the wardstones. Let what is right guide your actions, and your accomplishments will force the crusades leaders to see with their heart rather than their eyes."
As they withdraw to rest up for the feast, Finja seeks out Lann:"Do you per chance have a place of worship for the Inheritor in Neathholm? I would like to offer a prayer in thanks for...everything. Still being alive, having been given a chance, having made it so far..."
The young girl is clearly tired, from the past days, her heavy bag, the uneasy sleep...but her eyes show resolve, hope, and dedication.
:: Neathholm - Arodus 19 - Dusk ::
Chief Sull listens and nods to Jiao Feng's and Finja's words, but almost get's up when the later knees. "Oh, Miss Finja, I expressed myself poorly. We'll help you, of course, but what I meant was for you to bring a message to anyone in charge in the surface if they would welcome us... unless any of you is actually a high ranking officer, of course."
While showing the village to those that are not interested in resting, Lann points to a very small house, a small shrine. "This is the closest we have to such a thing, Finja. As you know, our ancestors were once crusaders. We are not pious as they were, but we still pay respect to most of the gods involved in the crusades. Inside that small shrine, you'll be able to pray."
"Your hospitality is most welcome, and we will be indebted to you for the kindness. If there is aught I can do for you, you have only to ask." Of course Edril had no idea what use he could be, but it was the polite thing to do. "Are there any books which need transcribing, or a spell scroll you might find useful?"
Darrien would purchase some rations for the journey, he didn't have a lot of gold on him, but enough for about 2 weeks worth of food for one, and another waterskin. After that, he gets a good large meal and tries to get some rest for the journey.
Prior to going looking for supplies, Matheus asks "Is there a place we can rest for now? We do have some seriously wounded and a place to lie safely would be most appreciated to be prepared for the feast." He looks to Anevia, Isa and Aravashnial before addressing them before asking them in an aside. "Are there any supplies or aid we might look for to assist? A proper crutch or walking stick?"
Finja thanks Lann, leaves her backpack outside, and enters the small shrine.
She grasps her Silver Holy Symbol and spends time in prayer to Iomedae, dedicated to holding a Vigil rather than resting herself.
She had not had an opportunity to properly wash for days, smelling of sweat and dirt and blood, she was tired and the perpetual darkness around her started to affect her mood, making her feel lost and alone in unending darkness.
But she was alive. And she was thankful for that. She was given a chance, unlike so many others.
:: Neathholm - Arodus 19 - Dusk ::
Chief Sull thanks Edril's offer. "Not a lot o books end up here in Neathholm, and all we have are already translated... we have a scholar here among us, Ol' Witch Maag. But rest assured, Edril, I'll indeed need your help, but not here. I'll explain in the feast, now go get some rest."
Anevia, Aravashnial and Isa indeed remain behind in a small house that has been offered to you. The elf doesn't appear to really be tired, but also stays behind just to spare you the trouble of guiding him. They thank Matheus for the offer and ask him to indeed by a clutch for Anevia and a walking stick for Aravashnial, even providing the gold necessary.
While the others look for supplies, Finja finds some peace in the small temple, completely undisturbed.
:: Neathholm - Arodus 19 - Night ::
When the 'night' comes, another mongrel by the name of Gust comes for you and guide you back to Chief Sull's hall. Two tables were set for this feast: one, atop a tableau, is for the chief himself and a couple other mongrels, undoubtedly of political and social significance for the hamlet; the other one is reserved for you... with the exception that there is already another 'uplander' waiting for you... a half-elf wearing studded leather armor , albeit looking tired. "Welcome, my surface friends! Eat! Enjoy our food so kindly prepared... like we, I know their look is not really welcoming, but I'm sure you'll be delighted. This girl sitting with you is Miss Ivanna. We found her wounded and unconscious in the tunnel and she had been in the care of Ol' Maag since then. As fate decided, she woke up a couple minutes after you arrived and she had confirmed what you said about the demon attack. She also wishes to go back to the surface, so I figured you might join your efforts."
Once you are sit, a couple servants bring the dishes: small fishes of a sickly pale color; an abundance of mushrooms of various colors, sizes and shapes, with mosses taking the place of herbs; an assortment of insects from various sizes that you first assumed to be seafood; and finally a bit of meat, even if you believe it pertained to a large bat species. The drink offered is slightly greenish as fosforescente, and are quite alcoholic (absinthe-strong) with an earthy hint. Once you have eaten (or not), Chief Sull talks once more once Isa is taken back to the hut.
"Very well... now to serious discussion. The nearest route to the surface is to the south and it would take you about half an hour in normal circumstances. The other routes, on the other hand, take you to the east and it would take at least three more days if the tunnels are still intact." He pauses. "Sadly, the south route is currently guarded by a different tribe of mongrelmen, one that doesn't share our ways or beliefs. They are traitors, and have dared to consort with wicked cultists for some time, and perhaps they still do. We have so far ignored them, but that time has passed."
"You'll need to face them, sadly, for we don't have time to spare by taking the large route. While you clean the way, something less costly for a small band than for our more numerous warriors, I'll send emissaries deeper into the tunnels to gather the other mongrel tribes to Neathholm and once we receive word that the crusaders above will welcome the crusaders below, we'll be ready to rise up and help take Kenabres back from the blasted demons!" He raises his cup, followed by the others in his table, obviously proud and eager with the prospect of fighting demons like their ancestors. "If you agree with this plan, I'll send with you my daughter, Hashrin." He points to a younger mongrel woman with light blue skin dotted with white spots and numerous spikes like those of a hedge-hog that covers her head in place of hair and her shoulders. "She is not a fighter, but instead a speaker. She will carry the message of our aid to the surface and eventually bring back the answer. To help you, she will also carry with her a small stash of potions, courtesy from Ol' Maag. What are your thoughts?"
The woman indeed looks weary. She is very pretty, by human standards at least, with dark wavy hair and olive colored skin. Dark eyes peek from beneath dark slender brows. She leaves her hair mostly undone, though a head-scarf of sorts keeps it out of her way and reveals ears that speak of an elven heritage.
She wears a large, ornate red scarf, though it is dirty from her time underground. In addition to her armor, she also carries a longbow and wears a spiked gauntlet. Despite her slender frame, she seems dangerous.
At the sight of the party, a smile comes quickly to her lips. "Hello! I am so pleased to see that some other survived. This has all been very disorienting. My name is Ivanna Coșovei il Mithrahir."
"What is this we are saying about fighting the demons and retaking Kenabres? I will join you." You see a fire burning in her eyes where before you saw only weariness and even some confusion. Something settles inside of her and she feels a certainty she cannot recall feeling ah, so this is what the visions were leading me to!
"I think that your generosity is most welcome. We will guard Hashrin with our very lives, and promise to see her returned safely here. The potions are also appreciated, as dangers abound."
Once the proprieties and appreciation are given to their host and the proper authorities, he turns to the fellow surface dweller. "Greetings miss.. I'm sorry, that is quite a mouthful. I am Edril, is there something shorter and easier to recall that I might call you?" He means it, he's not stupid or trying to be rude, but it's a mouthful and from his time below Edril is rather out of sorts.
A smile--a smirk, perhaps?-- teases the edge of Ivanna's lips. She tilts her head a little "I don't think anyone has ever called me a mouthful before... Maybe once." She winks at him. "Most people just call me Ivanna."
"Pleased to make your aquaintance, Lady Ivanna! My name is Finja. Do you remember any more of the battle above ground? Moments after it began, we fell into the rift...you and the chief both spoke of retaking Kenabres - has it fallen to the attack, then?"
The girl speaking visibly strains to keep her voice steady.
_______________________
Finja eats quite a bit, enjoying the freshly prepared food and not being as picky as city folk often tended to be. She drank a bit of the beverage as well, but only in moderation - she was not used to alcohol, and the drink burned in her throat.
When the Chief spoke again, she listened intently. "I thank you, again. Your help against the abyssal hordes will be invaluable. You offer this help and trust us, and in return - knowing this is greater than anyone of us - I vow that I shall defend Hashrins life with my own!"
Where the young woman seemed lost during the feast, without her armor and arms and wearing just the linen used to provide padding, there is a steely determination in her eyes and voice as she solemnly speaks her promise.
Matheus looks slightly uncomfortable at the table like accepting being a guest for the feast is a role that is unusual for him. But his overall presentation was much improved thanks to the small items of personal care he purchased and access to a place that conjured water could allow for bathing. He thanks the servants bringing the food and samples each of the dishes with care. Following the conversations with care he doesn't verbally add to them but does nod in agreement to the aid and protection.
Waiting for a break in conversation before addressing Ivanna with a small bow from his seat. "I am Critchton and am pleased to increase our traveling bands size again and hope it beckons a sign of forture to us all."
"The chief's comment was the first I heard of retaking Kenabres. My fall knocked me out and I don't remember much except the demons attacking."
The innuendo flies directly over poor Edril's head, "No I was saying your name was... ah, Ivanna then. Yes. Kenabres was assaulted by large demons who slew Terendelev the dragon and cast us into a chasm. We are trying to reach the surface to take stock of what happened there." There's plenty of nervous energy still within Edril, and the whole situation simply has him flustered. How anyone could be even remotely used to it is beyond him. The mongrel-folk, demons, just his whole world up in flames. He doesn't know if his parents are okay. Well not his parents, per se, but the people who raised him.
Edril was certainly glad the other people here were better at talking than he was, facts were great but anything outside of knowledge was ancient Thassilonian to him. People were curious at best and horrific at worst, so he hadn't taken much time to get to know them. Having been forced into this group by happenstance, it was a complete paradigm shift. He still wasn't sure how he felt about that aside from glad to be alive.
:: Neathholm - Arodus 19 - Night ::
When you talk about this new information of retaking Kenabres, Chief Sull explains himself. "I beg your pardon, for perhaps I jumped to conclusions. Kenabres has her own wardstone that protected her from the demons... as you said it was overrun by them, I assumed something dire happened to the city."
"This is not the first time in our bloody history that a city fell to the demons and in every occasion, they came to stay... so far, the crusaders have never been able to, however." He says grimly. "On the other hand, not much time have passed and Kenabres lies in the border of the Worldwound. We can only hope that there is still time."
Once you agree with his plan, he calls the feast to an end, getting up. "Very well. You shall rest now. May the Gods bless us all..." With that, you are guided back to the cot the mongrels have provided to you.
:: Neathholm - Arodus 20 - Morning ::
The morning comes but there is no sign of it beneath the earth and Naethholm looks exactly the same as the previous night. You notice however, more urgency in those you find in the earthen streets. A guard brings you some breakfast (that looks suspiciously similar to the leftovers from the last night's feast) and then escorts you to the east passage once you are ready.
In front of another beautifully carved stone door, Chief Sull, his daughter Hashrin and a couple other guards await you. As you approach, you notice the chief hugging his daughter and talking to her. Even if unable to hear the words, you believe he is advising her. The chief turns to you when you reach them. "I wish you all a blessed day, my friends. I've already dispatched ten messengers earlier and as soon as the passage is clear, and Hashrin has returned, we shall join you in the surface. Now, I wish you good luck... and go, for there is no time to waste. My daughter knows the way."
The stone doors are opened and Hashrin turns to you. "It is not far from here, about 20 or 30 minutes... be ready. Shall we go?"
Behind you, Aravashnial, Anevia and Isa follow you once more. Even if it would be safer for them to remain behind, they refused to be left... they are also eager to return to the surface.
Ivanna gladly heads to bed, her body still recovering from her past injuries.
--
The next morning she makes her way to the gate with the others. "You lot look like you've been through a lot down here already." She comments in a friendly way.
--
At the gate she draws her bow and gestures forward. "Lead the way."
At night, after the Feast, Finja is very tired. But there was still one more thing to do - by now, after the past days, she was reeking. While Sayid was able to create water, it was never safe, never private, never...the right opportunity.
But certainly, they had some source of water in Neathholme, maybe even a small underground river - whatever the option, Finja takes some time to properly clean herself and her linen before sleeping, hanging her wet clothes near a fire hoping they will be dry again in the morning.
___________
The next morning, she packs up all her equipment again, puts on her armor, and heads to the meeting spot. 2 or 3 hours of sleep more would have been welcome, but she was perfectly fine.
Finja stands next to Hashrin during her Fathers goodbye, remaining next to her when the group departs: "Yes, let us go. Thank you for doing this, Hashrin!"
When Neathholme vanishes in the darkness behind, Finja draws her Sword and locks it in her gauntlet, then picks up her Shield again: "A precaution- trouble has found us so often before we arrived in Neathholme, I don't trust the dark any more."
Jiao Feng nods to everything, taking in as much food as possible. Who knows when there is another chance to eat.
Yeah, we have been through quite something so far. I never imagined an extended underground area like this under a supposedly civilized and safe city. Shows how wrong we can be.
A rested and neatened Matheus checks over the group, offering aid in squaring away equipment and helping preparations concentrating on those less able by age or injury. His new padded clothing a slight mismatch from his initial garb, but now carrying a backpack with shield mounted alongside he looks a traveler now even though his sturdy walking stick remained his main weapon available.
"I stand ready. I have... taken the liberty of crafting myself an object, it took most of the evening but I am proud of it." He displays the small wooden holy symbol of Nethys. "It is what I believe in. Magic." Edril smiles, briefly. It is a sad sort of smile, but genuine. There is so much to be sad about these days, but he has enough to be happy over for now. Safety and health, new friends, especially cute porcupine/hedgehog ones. "I feel better. I don't know if the gods smile upon our endeavors, I've never felt the need before, but... there is something compelling here and now. I think we will need their aid before this is all over." With that, he shuts up, his verbose streak once again ended.
Ivanna smiles at Jiao. "The world holds many wonders, surprises, and dreads. I am glad to have company again as I travel these new roads. I have not had travel companions in a while. And soon we will be battle companions!" she says, raising her bow in the air. "May we serve each other well."
As Edril shows his holy symbol and speaks of it, Ivanna's face is somber. "We must all believe in something in times like these." A smile sprouts again "But as for the gods smiling on our endeavors, I am certain of it. I can feel it."
:: Neathholm - Arodus 20 - Morning ::
From the hamlet of Neathholm, the tunnel winds mostly in a southeast direction for about 30 minutes. The tunnel, generally wide, then narrows down at some point to a 5-foot-wide passageway, the walls carved with picks and chisels. Hashrin signals you to pause. "We are really close now... if you have any preparations you wish to do, now is the time..." She then moves to the back of the group, alongside Anevia and the others, drawing a curved dagger. By her posture, you sense she had no prior fighting experience, even if she is determined to complete her mission.
As you continue to follow the tunnel, more sinister marks can be seen along the walls: paintings and carvings of demons and their like. At some point, the tunnel bifurcates, one way continuing forward while the other winds down in a quite steep angle. "The main tunnel... this side one will lead us down to the main village of the traitors, where their children and elder are. We need not to face them, only the warriors who lie ahead of us." Hashrin whispers.
Soon after you reach a barricade made of heaped loose rocks and wooden boards that bisect a small cavern. Beyond the barricades, a wooden screen covers the lower half of a tunnel mouth, which leads to a much larger cave. Three mongrelmen maintain a watch here: the first, a male, is big with greenish oily skin dotted with blisters, large teeth and one arm made up entirely by tentacles who wrap around a heavy spiked ball of iron; the second one, also a male, looks like the cross between a lizardman and a wild boar, his hands however are big for his size and end in spiked bony protrusions; the last one, another male, is smaller than the others with sick white flesh and protected by a red chitinous armor resembling something between a lobster and a beetle, and carries a longspear in his hands. All the guards quickly notice you thanks to the light you are carrying and shout warnings for those inside the bigger cave... it has begun.
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Matheus > Ivanna > Jiao Feng > Mongrelmen > Edril > Finja > Darrien
Ew, those are some beauties...I should have scouted ahead in the dark. Let's get them though.
Jiao Feng waits a split second to see if anyone has some unexpected magic to release, then makes her way towards the barricade and the mongrel traitors, getting out her big sword, striking at the middle one in front of her.
Here take this demon worshippers!
Shield up before him Matheus scrambles up next to the barricade pressing himself into the small niche in the wall. His sturdy cane ready to help fend off any foes he attempts to peer past the creatures and see what may come past this guard post.
Ivanna moves to where she can see the foe. "We can do this, my newfound friends! Strike true and do not fear the foe."
:: Lair of the Vile and Vicious - Arodus 20 - Morning ::
Jiao Feng moves swiftly and engages the mongrel with the spiked ball in his tentacle hands. She slashes quickly twice, opening gaps in the enemy's chest... she could have finished the defender but hesitates in the end, meaning the mongrel is still standing, even if barely. Matheus bolts forward, trying to look beyond the barricade but sadly can't see a thing, the barricades a bit too high for him. Ivanna encourages all with her voice and soon corrects Jiao Feng's mistake and the mongrel falls with an arrow lodged in his chest.
The lizard-boar mongrel attacks repeatedly Jiao Feng with his bony fists, one blow more wild than the other, until by sheer luck he manages to hit her chest, which causes her to lose all the air she had in her lungs! The last mongrel tries to take advantage of this to pierce the monk with his longspear, but the barricade actually protects her.
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Matheus > Ivanna > Jiao Feng > Mongrelmen > Edril > Finja > Darrien
Round 2
Matheus > Ivanna > Jiao Feng > Mongrelmen > Edril > Finja > Darrien
Green (Tentacles): 20 damage (critical, unconscious, bleeding)
Red (Lobster-Longspear):
"Already they fall before us!" Ivanna cheers and fires three more arrows.
Edril does what he can to help. He steps forward so he has a better vantage point then says a few words of arcane power. A slippery substance coalesces beneath the feet of the enemies.
Finja moves forward, sword ready. Trying to keep herself protected with the shield leaves her little space to maneuver and swing her sword arm, but she attempts to take advantage of the situation regardless.
Seeing Finja and Mat engage the one to her left, Jiao Feng moves over to deal with the lobster. Attempting to parry his longspear with her sword she closes in to slice him down.
:: Lair of the Vile and Vicious - Arodus 20 - Morning ::
Ivanna fires three more arrows: the first grazes the mongrel with the longspear in his arm, but the second is deflected by his numerous chitinous plates, while the third arrow flies wildling, not hitting her newfound allies by luck! Jiao Feng, fighting the lizard-boar mongrelman, notices as suddenly it falls on the ground... looking over the barricade she can see that the cave floor is covered in a weird looking grease of green color, a spell of Edril's doing!
Finja reaches the barricade and takes advantage of Edril's spell, slashing the mongrel while he still tries to understand what happened. As Jiao Feng moves towards the mongrel with the spear, she fails to stop his spear with her sword, but her distraction is enough to unbalance the mongrel. She then unleashes three quick slashes... sadly, the mongrel deflects two of them with his chitinous plates and the last one hits the barricade.
The barricade is too high for Matheus to do anything to the fallen mongrel, so he bids his time, waiting for an opportunity to help. Darrien, the last one to join the fight, also strikes the fallen mongrel with his morningstar, assuring the the guard will not get up.
The last mongrelman standing knocks the wood that was blocking the tunnel, forming an improvised bridge over Edril's greased area... you imagine he had not planed to do this, but luck was on his side. He then withdraws to the room beyond, shouting ...
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Matheus > Ivanna > Jiao Feng > Mongrelmen > Edril > Finja > Darrien
Round 3
Matheus > Ivanna > Jiao Feng > Mongrelmen > Edril > Finja > Darrien
Green (Tentacles): 21 damage (critical, unconscious, bleeding)
Red (Lobster-Longspear): 2 damage (healthy)
Taking note of the greasy area and expecting reinforcements, Finja attempts to make it over or past the barricade, using her shield to cover the direction of the tunnel regardless of her success, and readying to strike any mongrels coming to melee range.