I never met a queen! - says Kronk to the others, trying to avoid being overheard - This might be an opportunity not only to find a cure, but potentially establish new diplomatic channels.
from the Fauns demeanor and tone of voice, there is no hidden agenda except having the queen talk to the group
Straug is nervous as hell but trying to hide his jumpiness behind his dour faced stoic dwarven exterior.
I'd be thrice damned if I thought last week I'd be in this position, or that so much might rely on my actions, or those of my friends. Or that I'd have friends to begin with... He smiles wryly to himself a bit. Well if I'm going to get eaten by something awful and fey these are a good a bunch of lads to get eaten with as any!
Straug cracks his neck and stretches out his back pivoting side to side slowly.
'Seems our path is set for better or worse lads, lets get on with it.'
Alex gives Thal a small grin. When someone is too happy or friendly, thats when you need to be on guard the most.
As the question of meeting the queen comes up, Alex pauses in thought.
All things considered I'm not sure its a good idea... however. I doubt its everyday you get to speak to a queen. A fey one no less.... hm. I say lets go. It may prove useful in more ways than one.
A potential ally. Possibly. For more than one thing. Though Fey are... well fey. Hard to make plans in regards with creatures so whimsical... Perhaps those of the ruling class are less so.
Cathoris lets the Faun know of the groups agreement to go meet the Fey Queen of The Darkwood and they then start travelling. It takes about 3 hours of travelling through the beautiful woodland before they come upon a bramble like maze that leads back for about 20 minutes with twists and turns, The Faun knows the way. The group follows and tries to memorize all the turns. Falkwyn thinks he has it memorized.
After they pass through a glade to a ring of high Pine Trees and within they see a city...if it can be called a city...of unparalleled beauty. Every tree and bush form the walls of buildings. Fey flit about, or walk about. They are of all sizes and shapes. Leprechauns, Sprites, Dryads, etc...the stuff of legends. Hundreds of them. All pause to smile and wave at the group of adventurers.
They are brought to a hall of white granite overlooking Darkmoon Lake.
The Court is carved from a single block easily 30' high and 100' on a side. On the lakeside, docks run right up to the building from which boats of darkwood bob in the water.
It takes short time before they are brought into the audience hall. Within are a handful of stout dwarf like beings holding long spears, with thick beards and long hair and the same goatlike hooves for feet.
Black columns of marble with sparling opals of multiple colors colors dot the columns. At the far far end a throne of deer antlers sits with a very beautiful woman who could pass as an elf except for the long red hair and the smattering of freckles across her cheek bones and nose. A crown of thwigs sits upon her brow and rich green eyes seem to bore into each of you searching your souls it would seem.
A voice comes from the air and when you glance that way, you swear you see an pixie with a harp before it disappears Welcome strangers to the Seelie Court of Darkmoon Vale. Behold The Fey-Queen Lady Syntara. Please announce yourself for our scribes to take note of this wonderous day and document it for all eternity.
With each group that they pass heading into the presence of the Fey queen, Thal smiles and waves back. He even offers the occasional greeting or compliment fully aware that they may not understand the words, but assumes the tone of voice will indicate friendliness.
As they step into the presence of the queen, Thal finds himself rather impressed by this queen and her balance of soft beauty with intensity.
He is pondering this as the herald invites them to introduce themselves. Ever one to embrace a moment, Thal takes just a step forward, bows deep and says, "Glorious and beautiful Lady Syntara, blessed leader of the Fey, you honor us by inviting us here to your Court." He stands as he continues, "I am Thallin Braspur, seventh son of Jaspin Braspur. I am a singer of songs," he says gesturing to the lute carried on his back, "and your beauty and radiance will surely inspire in me the finest of compositions. May this meeting between our people be the beginning of a friendship as lovely as your majesty," and with that, he bows again and takes a step back to allow his allies a chance to introduce themselves.
Kronk follows behind Thal. The almost middle-aged, somewhat obese man walks towards the queen and stops.
Nice to meet you, madam queen. Your... Queenest? - he stops to look back to the others, whispering ... is there a feminine for majesty? Oh, it's majesty too? - Aham. I mean, Your Madam Majestic Majesty Queen.
Both of his hands go his waist.
I am Kronk! Kronk... The cook! - he says - Er... That's it. Mama never bothered with other names. Just Kronk.
As they follow the fawn, Cathoris looks in awe at the fey city. When the fey creatures wave, he waves back in with a half-smile stupor. This is not what I expected. They are treating us like heroes! We’re just common folk. Kronk’s a cook. I’m a shepherd.
When they reach the queen for introduction, he follows behind Kronk. Speaking in the language of the fey, he says, Thank you for your invitation, Your Majesty. I am Cathoris, a simple shepherd from Falcon’s Hollow. We are honored to be here. He bows and steps aside for the next person.
Alexander waves to the fey as they pass through, particularly if there are any nymphs or nereids about.
Truly, fey are marvelous. If only they all understood some pranks go to far.
Alexander walks with a gait the likes of practiced nobility. Upon being introduced Alexander bows deeply before speaking.
Greetings to you and your court Queen Syntara, your grace. We are honored by your invitation to speak. Some know me as Alex. My Friends, Val.
Straug is completely out of his element. Has no idea about court manners or even village manners for that matter. He does sense, however, that he is in the presence of some greatness of power he does not understand and most importantly, does not want to anger.
'Hail Queen,' He says hesitantly. 'I am Straug Fireborn, left as a child in these woods to die but saved by the fine people of Falcon's Hollow. Pledged now to Angradd's service. What these lads say about our task is true. Ive wandered the outskirts of these woods many years, drawn to them in a way as I feel I was reborn here in fire. I'm humbled to be at your service.
Straug does a deep bow his beard touching the ground, stands up and looks sheepish and embarrassed at his words, shuffling back behind those better suited to the task of speaking with royalty.
I'd rather go down a well after some poison fungus than attempt that again. He thinks to himself.
Falkwyn was standing there looking around in awe, as the others took turns announcing themselves.
Queen Syntara sat up and leaned forward speaking softly in the common tongue as the announcer had. and said It is a pleasure to meet you all. I sense there is more to you than your simple announcements say. Please come forward and sit on the steps with me. I would talk informally. And sir, when you are doing staring in wonder at my palace, you may announce yourself and come sit as well. she said with a mischievous smile.
As you know I am Lady Syntara, Queen of The Darkwood Seelie Court. Both the Arthfell Forest and Darkmoon Vale are my realm. As of Late there has been trouble brewing from outside my Court. The Fellnight Queen Rhoswen, of the Unseelie Court of The Veruduren Forest has laid eyes on my realm and it seems she has allied with servants of The Midnight Lord, Zon-Kuthon. To bring war between my people and yours by causing the normal suspicions and doubt to be heightened with this disease you spoke of to Quinn, My servant. They seek to destabilize the peace and in turn step in when the timing is right. I tell you this forthrightly to clear the air of any doubts you have about my intention. I want peace. Not War. I want what is good for both our peoples. If your people start hunting my people, it will cause the balance to be tipped. My intent is open for you. What do you have to say for yours?
He studies the queen as she speaks, hoping that her words ring true.
... do I dare make a play? This would be, perhaps, the best opportunity to set a plan in motion... do I trust the others?... For better or worse.
Alexander displays visible signs of inner conflict, as if torn about something.
He gives a long look to the group before putting on an earnest smile and finally speaking.
Your Majesty.. I would agree with you. It would be better for our two peoples to share this forest, and for us both to look after its well being. I would love to speak for everyone when I say we agree and go so far as to say that our two peoples should live closer together so that such attempts as this would find less traction. In many humans, there is a fear of that which we do not know, however if we better knew the fey in the forest I dare say not only would it lower most unease but foster a budding friendship as well. If you would show support and aid to the people suffering from this sickness and their families I have no doubt relations between our people would raise exponentially.
His smile slowly turns into a worried frown.
However... we are but...emissaries.. so to speak if even that. We have little real sway in the matter of what our town does.. for now. And I fear the leader of the town is a man more driven by greed and lust for wealth than anything else. I truly believe he would side with who whoever offered him a more profitable deal. However, while many would not openly admit this, there is a palpable animosity towards the man from many. Yet.. he has a way of keeping folk in line, so little has been done about it. However... I see opportunity not only for a little mischief but potential of great good for many from this sickness. If you would be willing to help.
Falkwyn was standing there looking around in awe, as the others took turns announcing themselves.
Queen Syntara sat up and leaned forward speaking softly in the common tongue as the announcer had. and said It is a pleasure to meet you all. I sense there is more to you than your simple announcements say. Please come forward and sit on the steps with me. I would talk informally. And sir, when you are doing staring in wonder at my palace, you may announce yourself and come sit as well. she said with a mischievous smile.
The ranger's face suddenly felt warm and flushed, and his cheeks grew red. He literally had to close his mouth, as it had fallen open in awe at the radiant beauty of the crimson-haired queen. Falkwyn blinked and stammered, "I'm Falkwyn. A simple hunter...of animals. To skin, or eat...um, your majesty."
Realizing he'd just interrupted Alexander's pitch, he nodded, making a face at his own reaction, and then said, "We're just here to help our people. Good people. We want what's best for both our kind as well..."
Alexander believes Queen Syntara is on the level.
She heard Alexander speak and then saw Falkwyn embarrassed but coming forward to sit with her. She nodded. Im listening.
Thal finds himself impressed with Alex's eloquence. He decides to follow suit. "My companion speaks truth, your grace," Thal says, but then adds, "however, I think his modesty undersells our influence among the townsfolk. Having taken action against the sickness and having won a battle to save our town's healer, we are, in fact, held in high regard as heroic figures. In that regard, at least, our word could go a long way towards helping cement an alliance between our people."
Alex Smiles at Thallin.
I don't mean to say we have no sway, or clout with the people. But, from my stay in town I have noticed that the people have little say in matters. Kreed keeps more or less a short leash on the town, and his will is law... But what thal says does bring me to my next point. If this Kreed could be removed, and with the support of the people, perhaps one of us put in his place, with the others as a council. I have no doubt we can come to a mutually beneficial agreement. However, for this to happen we may need your support and aid in the matter. As I've said, Kreed is no small problem, and a man like him would resort to violence if need be to keep his power and position. It could be as simple as Kreed getting lost in the woods.. just so that he is gone. Though I would prefer a more permanent solution. A man like Kreed does little good for anything but himself... If any of my companions have any other ideas I would ask you listen to theirs as well of course.
He had made his intent clear. Whether this would see him ruined he was unsure however he felt it the best chance to see his goal achieved in a timely manner.
Queen Syntara exhales sharply with Alexanders words. I sincerely hope youre not suggesting I execute a Town Official to further your own agenda. I am agreed that from what I know of Kreed, he isnt a good man. However, he does have the backing of the Consortium, and their reach is no small thing. Along with that, Its not my way. So if that is your desire I would have to decline. .....
"Wait! No. Er, I mean..." Falkwyn blurts out before thinking, seeing where the conversation was headed. The half-elf spoke without really thinking his words through, rambling on with his heart rather than his head.
"What Alexander is getting at is that we recognize the need for change amongst the lumberjacks, especially with Kreed in power, and we understand your reasonable distrust of them...of us. But at the same time, we are in need of your assistance to help these good people, and we're willing to earn your trust if need be, to show you that we CAN work together. That not all men are alike, and just as you are obviously different from this Midnight Lord and the Fellnight Queen...well, we're different from Kreed too. We mean you no ill will, your Majesty. I'm not eloquent or as well spoken as my companion, but well...We're honestly here to help...everyone."
Alex pauses for Falkwyn to speak, before nodding and adding on further.
What my companion says is true. And I wouldn't ask such a thing of you personally no. Apologies if I worded it in a way as to suggest... especially since such a thing could be viewed poorly by some and lead to strained relations. Allowing corruption and evil to grow unchallenged is something I personally can't abide by. So that itself is a matter that involves only me. As I would worry for any retribution he may seek should we be successful. Particularly if he would make any deals with said Fellnight Queen. I merely ask you for help in finding a way to remove Kreed from power in the town, not in his death or anything thereof. As I said, merely aiding in his removal as the... Tyrant, of the town would be sufficient I believe in making sure our peoples could work together. That aside, as long as the consortium's demands are met, or exceeded, I doubt they care much about who it is fulfilling them. As evident of Kreed himself. I fear its something we may not be able to achieve without further aid. Aid that would show the goodly folk of the town your desire for, and willingness to aid in, their well being. As well as ensure any potential threat from Kreed as his power grows is nipped in the bud. So to speak.
to let corruption fester so easily... though I guess I understand..
Cathoris’ face changes from concentrated to shocked as the conversation turns to removing Kreed. I just want to save my family, he starts. And the town, too, if we can make it back in time. Kreed’s not so bad. He pauses a moment clearly considering things. He realizes something about what the queen has said, something that the others, less naive, probably already figured out.
After a sigh, he continues. I suppose it won’t be the end, though. Will it? This last question he directs at the others, turning and looking at each of them as he talks. Zon-Kuthon and the Fellnight Queen aren’t going to stop just because we stop the plague. They’ll send assassins, like the did after Laurel, or worse yet. We stopped them once; the town will look to us again to protect them. That’s how it goes in Falcon’s Hollow. We could use allies, friends.
Cathoris focuses his attention back on the queen. If you help us and the town sees it, that will strengthen the relationship between our peoples. The opposite of what Zen-Kuthon wants. At the very least, we’ll have each other as allies to counter his threat.
He ends there. The soberness of the situation fading from his face replaced by doubt in his words and in the townsfolk. Maybe I shouldn’t have said anything at all.
"And as for the matter at hand, the poisoning of the townsfolk and the animosity towards your people that it might foster, perhaps more information on our shared foe could also be beneficial," Thal adds, figuring that a political coup might be fun to be part of, but wanting to ensure that they get all they can out of this interaction. "As Cathoris points out, the more we can share with the townsfolk about how helpful and gratious you were in our time of need, the more quickly those positive connections can be built." And then a sudden thought occurs to him. "Since this illness is on Fey origin, if you have a healer who might come assist in creating a remedy, that would be an extremely visible show of friendship."
The Queen sighs and relaxes visibly.
Right. Perhaps I misunderstood what you were asking. I do not think you or I are in any position to do much about Kreed at the moment. So lets table that discussion and know that I am not adverse to lending assistance in placing someone more in line with peace in the leadership of Falcons Hollow. Know this also, should I help you with that, I would expect reciprocation in dealing with Rhoswen. But for now we can leave that for the future. The issue at hand is helping you with this plague and saving your community while keeping My people from being blamed by your people, and keeping your people from making the mistake of violence against my people.
With that being said. I cannot send a healer of the Fey to Falcons Hollow. It would unnecessarily jeopardize the life of this individual as you probably already know. What I can do is provide you with aid to help your endeavor succeed. First in perhaps knowledge, second in equipment and third in a speedy return. I will give this out of good faith asking nothing in return. Just good will and future consideration.
Hmph. vague promises of help in the future...Better than expected, worse than I had hoped. I doubt she is in a position where she could do nothing about Kreed... Still. Its more than I had three days ago. I wonder how much she truly values cooperation, and how much she just wants to keep us from hunting her people.. It is also possible, if unlikely, she manipulates us. With one hand she poisons our people to cause a crisis, one that would remove a perceived threat, with the other she provides the cure and offers of friendship should the first ploy seem likely to fail... hmmm.
Alex seems to lose himself in thought for a few moments as the others speak. Coming back to reality when the fairy queen beings to speak again.
hmm.. if the former is not quite possible yet, then.. if we can convince the townsfolk that like us the fey are not one entity, no easy task all things considered, and rally them to put some pressure on Kreed. It may solve the problem for the short term. Of course any help with the knowledge and ability to create this cure is most welcome.... as for the speedy return. I've heard tales of your folk traveling through trees. Would it be something akin to this? I must say the thought of that being true intrigues me. Much less the possibility of doing so.
"Your majesty honors us with this offer of help," Thal says, giving a bit of a bow. "Do not doubt, m'lady, that we will give full credit where it is due for this aid and that we will use what influence we have to help the townsfolk understand that there are numerous Fey courts and that not all Fey are against them."
"That being said," he continues, "and unless anyone has more to add," he says glancing around at his friends, "time is of the essence, so if the knowledge and equipment could be given quickly and then your gracious aid in travel, that would likely be for the best."
"And after we return and help administer the remedy and speak in your favor to the townsfolk, then we could return to have further discourse on how we might aid you in your dealings with Rhoswen, if that would be to your majesty's pleasure?"
The Queen glances at one of the Dwarflike Fey with the long spear and he leaves the room for a few minutes returning with Quinn and a few other Fauns bearing some gear. They come and lay it on the steps near you then Quinn said Your Majesty, This is what I could dig up on such quick notice. I hope it meets with your approval. Then he exits.
The queen says Heres what I can do to help to equip your venture. I hope this goodwill is not forgotten.
1. Catching Cape: (1xuse. 1 min of concealment 20% miss chance ranged attacks. swift action.)
2. Ioun Torch: (floating continual flame around head. or in pocket.)
3. MW Chain Shirt
4. MW Lamellar Leather
5. MW Lamellar Cuiress
6. Composite Bow +1 Strength
7. Doses of Habsalura x3 (brewed into tea. restores 1d4 spell slots if drank within 15 minutes. then loses potency )
8. MW Longsword
9. MW Heavy Crossbow
10. Wand of Cure Light 10 charges.
Then she says As for knowledge I can say I know where you are to find the next two ingredients. and I can give you information about both. The Ratstails are at Ulzmilla's Cottage. You need not fear the witch. She has been dead for many years now. Though I cannot speak to what guardians her cottage still has. You will find the Ironsoot Mushrooms, I believe that is what they are called, at Droskars Crucible....It was a Dwarven Monastery with several underground levels. The mushrooms can be found on the first floor. It is inhabited by those that would occupy ruins. In the depths are a kobold tribe and many guardians foul and strange, so do not go down without need.
then a pause. as for speedy return. I can have one of my boats meet you at a crossing point on the river and take you across so your return can be quicker. Is this helpful to you? enough to prove my honorable intentions?
This is all of great help, your Majestic Queen Majesty Lady. - says Kronk, breaking from the silence he reserved to give his allies space to diplomatize - Mushrooms, check. What... What were be those that occupy ruins?
His voice trembled a bit at the end, having heard only stories about the kind of evil that would linger at ruins.
Kobalds? I hate those things... Falkwyn blinks, then frowns for a moment...a moment that quickly passes.
"Aye, this is all indeed generous, your Majesty. Thank you, truly." The half-elf coughs, self-consciously, hoping that none of his friends would notice he was finding it surprisingly difficult to speak with the beautiful Fey Queen.
Falkwyn clears his throat then says, "This would indeed help us a great deal, and more than show your good will and trustworthiness."
"M'lady, you honor us with your gifts, advice, and help. We will make haste to bring the ingredients to cure the townsfolk, and then we shall return to see how we can repay your kindness," Thal says, deeply bowing before the queen.
so just a reminder I did research all characters before I chose these items with the idea that 2 items go to each character.
and all are close to the same value. That being said, the party is obviously free to do with the items what they will.
The Queen looks at each intently for a second, then comes up to Alexander and hands him a small wooden bird. She says Im entrusting this possession to your care. When you are a day from being to the river, you may say the fey word 'Etain' and the figurine will become a bird that will fly directly to me, so I can dispatch the boat to get you across the river. The bird will return by evening and transform back into the figurine. You may keep it until I ask for it back. Please do not lose it or give it to anyone not in your group. I would not want this treasure misused.
She then says take some time to avail yourself of our hospitality now. enjoy our food and drink. Quinn will escort you to guest chambers and on the morrow you may go back into the wild. Thank you for your attendance and I look forward to mutually beneficial relationship. May The Earthmother speed you on your way and to protect you.
Cathoris bows to the queen and says, Thank you for your aid, your gifts, and your hospitality, your majesty. We are certainly in your debt.
Falkwyn offers his best attempt at bowing, awkward as it might be, and says simply, "Thank you, your Majesty."
Alexander gives a bow.
Of course. I'll treat this gift with care as if twas one from a lover. Even were it not but a pretty trinket, it would remind me of your kindness and beauty when I look upon it.
Straug heard little after the mention of the dwarven monastery. His heart is racing and thoughts running too fast for him to think clearly. After long moments of silence Straug finally finds his voice, steps forward a bit awkwardly and says louder than he intended.
Queen Syntara, thank you for these gifts we will put them to good use in our journey to come and carry word of your kindness to the people of Falcon's Hollow.
If I might beg an indulgence? Many years ago as a babe I was left to die in these forests amidst flame and death. I'm told my dwarven parents and some others burned in this fire and I was strangely untouched. I've wandered these woods many times aimlessly in search of anything in connection to that event or to any dwarves that might live in these woods. I've heard the memories of the forest are long. Do any of these events have any meaning to you? Can you give me any assistance in understanding where I came from? I would gladly offer you whatever service I can in return for this knowledge.
This is the most Straug has talked about his past in years, maybe ever. Its suddenly left him feeling exposed and angry at himself. He grits his teeth and curses himself for a fool in his head.
Idiot dwarf! Youve gone and made a spectacle of yourself again!
Thal cocks an eyebrow and gives an amused smile as Alex speaks to the queen using terms like "lover" and "beauty." Well, you smooth-talker! and decides to be his wingman.
"Your majesty could not have chosen a better champion to bear your gift than Alex, or Val, if you prefer. He is, indeed, a fellow of upstanding character and will, most assuredly, do his utmost to keep your gracious gift safe."
And after they have finished their interactions with the queen, Thal will enjoy food, non-alcoholic drinks, the lovely company, and will treat the Fey to a performance including his most beloved tune, "The Lumberjack Song."
The Queen looks at Straug as he explains and there is a sadness in her eyes. Yes. I know. That was quite a few years ago. Droskars Crucible was not always known as such. It was once a Shrine and home to followers of Torag, The Dwarven God of the Forge. There came a schism in the citizens as depravity crept in and belief in Droskar, The Dwarven Dark Smith, God of Toil and Slavery. The followers of Torag were hunted down and slain if they did not convert. Your family was one such. They fled and hired out to the Consortium rather than convert. Unfortunately, Those that chased them, continued to hunt them until they found them...the end brutal. As I said, that was many years ago. Those followers of Droskar all all gone now, all that remains is their legacy.
The Fey certainly enjoyed Thallins performance...especially his now famous Lumberjack song...which they revelled in. They were even joining in at the end.
The group goes to their rooms. where hot baths have been poured for each of them. Some new clothing laid out. Travelers clothing, of the exact requirements for each. . Quinn says Get cleaned up We will have your clothes mended and cleaned and then returned by morning. Your evening meal and morning meal and some rations for the trip will be provided. You can leave after dawn. I hope my words have become true in your heart. It is my way. I want you to believe I am an ally. As long as you are in the Fey wild, I will always be a few heartbeats away. See you at dinner.
Before stripping down to take his bath, Thal will search around the room to ensure there are no threatening or merely curious eyes watching.
Thallin moves around his room and see's nothing out of sorts
Thallin bathes, changes into the fresh clothing, and goes out to enjoy the meal .
Fascinated by the idea of this alliance, but still having a nagging voice in the back of his head that this might be a trap, Thal finds a lovely Fey gal to chat with and tries to gauge if she is harboring some sort of animosity towards the group that her smile is hiding.
But unfortunately, Thal seems to have no ability to read people. However, he does make sure to turn on the charm to help ensure he makes a good impression.
But since his thoughts keep drifting to a lovely barmaid instead of this conversation, he proves a bit more distracted than charming.
Cathoris enters his room and stares at the hot bath. It’s been a while, he thinks to himself. He takes his time bathing to enjoy the warm water, especially considering their stream crossings earlier. He dresses and joins the others at the party.
He is shy and awkward with the fey guests. Understanding the people in town was bad enough. Mingling with fey was a whole new level of discomfort.
He eats and enjoys the food, but returns to his room early to scribe a scroll of cure light wounds while he can steal some time. It doesn’t hurt to be prepared, but hopefully the other ingredients will be as easy as the first.
Falkwyn too gives his room a once over, slightly suspicious due to the fact that their hosts are fey. Still, it's hard for him to get over the fact that some of these beings look more like him than his companions, what with their pointed ears and slender builds.
Finding nothing to unsettle him, the half-elf enjoys his bath and the new clothing, and heads out to dinner.
Falkwyn does his best to mingle, but even with his elven heritage, he feels clumsy and awkward around the fey.
Alexander takes some time to relax. He keeps his gear next to him while in the bath, unable to completely let his guard down. After, he takes time to make sure his hair is kempt and styled, his clothes clean, and takes the time to shave to a light 5 o'clock shadow. He then goes to enjoy the meal. At the start of the meal, Alexander keeps a bit too himself, keeping eyes and ears out for any tidbits of information. He, despite the earlier meeting, is wary of any ulterior motives, and spends for the first little bit trying to convince himself to relax.
After that, he makes sure to speak to everyone he meets and often drops subtle compliments in regards to something of their person. Especially those of the female persuasion, particularly Nypmhs or Dryads. Often times taking a minute or two to observe them, and further "categorize" them based on their reactions and demeanor so he can approach and speak with them in a way that comforts them, and puts him in the best position to improve his standing with them. He keeps his paladin-like demeanor for the meals.
Straug is stunned by what the the fey Queen revealed. He goes to his room numb and dumbfounded, staring into the distance even at things and people right in front of him.
He goes through the paces of getting clean and ready for dinner with a million thoughts running through his brain.
So now I know, I'd heard of Droskar's Crucible but now to know the truth of the matter. Also to be traveling there I wonder what I'll find.
At dinner he says very little at first, numbly piling food into his mouth and staring down at his plate while he contemplated the events that brought him to this place until...
I suppose Angradd isnt opposed to some drunken revelry and Gods know I need these thoughts out of my head...
He begins drinking in earnest, the alcohol changing his mood from morose and pensive to good natured and raucous. He tells some funny stories from growing up in The Hollow, mostly with him as the punchline. Silly things he's done or scrapes he found himself getting into and out of. He tries to be as entertaining as possible and good company, drinking to excess but not to the point of being obnoxious. Drinking to forget and enjoy this rare moment in time and in this rare place.
It was a good time had by all. Much revelry. Much laughter. Msch singing. Much drinking. Good food. Good company. Its a rare thing to be festive with the Fey, and group enjoyed it thoroughly. By eves end they were convinced of the goodwill of their neighbors and went to sleep with nary a though of worry.
Sleep was sound.
In the early morn Quinn awoke you all one at a time, and gave you back any older gear that had been washed and repaired. He waited patiently in the dining hall until you attended than made sure you were fed and gave you some cakes and full waterskins for the continued journey. Then led you back through the bramble maze on the west side and said farewell to you as you started towards Ulzmillas Cabin. It was with some relief you knew the witch wouldnt be present, but what guardians were left behind...
It was a sunny fall day, with hardly any clouds in the sky and the warmth crept through the trees, making it a very pleasant journey. as you exited the Fey Wood and into the Darkwood nearer the monastery, woods that were Kobold Hunting grounds. The travel was easy. As morning turned to afternoon, then to dusk, the group came upon the slightly swampy clearing with a lone cabin at its center.
The sounds of the forest had become distant as the trees parted into the small perfectly circular glade. The nearest stands of pine, elyn, and darkwood, all typical sturdy woods, twist away from the clearing, as if bent by some impossibly strong wind or seemingly in an attempt to flee despite their paralyzed roots..
At the glades center, squats an ugly cottage, little more than a pile of twigs, shoots, and ivy stacked upon mud walls. From the thatched roof dangle bundles of gnarled roots, old dried beast carcasses, and knucklebone bangles, all clattering together like wind chimes. A dozen small thatched fetishes, each shaped like a tiny man, imp, or rearing serpent, stand propped up in the swampy yard, keeping guard before the porch and doorway.
The place has an aura of menace about it.
Yeah, there is something wrong going on here, mates! - says Kronk, a little shaky while carrying his sledgehammer.
cue music....
A chill goes up Cathoris’ spine as his eyes lay on the cottage and it’s surroundings. For a moment, he feels like the trees, eager to escape.
Without any a-due, Cathoris casts detect magic on the scene.
Think those are her guardians, he asks as he begins to look around.I hope not, he thinks to himself.
Cathoris looks around at the fetishes and sees no magic in them...maybe at one time they may have been enchanted, but now with no one to maintain the magic they are nothing more than scary bundles of sticks.
Well, there’s no magic in them. Keep your eyes open for some other tricks. Cathoris looks around himself for anything [i]more[i] unusual.