"Honestly I think it best we approach them openly without trying to hide who we are. That could create more mistrust should they come to realize what we are doing. We do not necessarily need to gain entrance to check in on Elliot's sister and I would hope they are not forcing others to stay with them," Thesius says openly to his companions.
"We can let them know that another safe haven has been started at Defender's Heart should they need it and them choosing to stay there is not necessarily a bad thing. Often has it been said that putting all your eggs in one basket is not always the wisest decision. If they choose not to come to the Defender's Heart we can still work to create a connection between there and here. They may be in need of supplies and information. This may be a way to help develop trust."
The leadership circle, such as it is, nods in agreement with Verene.
"I trust your judgment." Irabeth says to the party as a whole. "As Thesius says, don't try anything deceptive. Just be who you are and offer what you can." A pause. "There's been too much suspicion from the Church already - any suspicion they have is understandable."
The Kellid woman nods. "If they practice what they preached, they won't try to keep people with them, especially... those who don't follow their beliefs." She shrugs. "But I think the young man has a good start. Go and talk, see what they want and will be willing to work with."
With that, and once any further questions are addressed , the party returns to the chill streets of the ruined city. It takes them almost an hour to wind their ways through the streets on the way to Truestone Park, but they encounter no resistance - nor even any signs of inhabitation.
As they approach the park, they see that its fringes have been made into crude fortifications - earthworks with sharp stakes poking outwards. Fortunately, (or perhaps unfortunately), a pair of heavily armed Kellids are patrolling along the wall the party approaches. "Stop!" The older of the two barks. Her younger male companion pulls a bell from his waist and rings it twice as she continues. "Who are you?"
"Honestly I think it best we approach them openly without trying to hide who we are. That could create more mistrust should they come to realize what we are doing. We do not necessarily need to gain entrance to check in on Elliot's sister and I would hope they are not forcing others to stay with them," Thesius says openly to his companions.
"We can let them know that another safe haven has been started at Defender's Heart should they need it and them choosing to stay there is not necessarily a bad thing. Often has it been said that putting all your eggs in one basket is not always the wisest decision. If they choose not to come to the Defender's Heart we can still work to create a connection between there and here. They may be in need of supplies and information. This may be a way to help develop trust."
"And this is why I am not the diplomat." Merixia smiles sheepishly at Thesius. That and the fact that new people can be a little intimidating when you're a very obvious member of a despised racial minority. "If you think honesty is the best policy, I'll keep my holy symbol in plain view. Maybe a little healing can help win them over."
As the group moves toward the park, Merixia keeps to the rear, her bastard sword sheathed so as not to look aggressive. This way she can guard their backs and the more sociable people will be the first ones the Kellids see. She chooses not to respond to the sentry's challenge; no doubt Thesius, Verene, or Azira will do so.
"Honestly I think it best we approach them openly without trying to hide who we are. That could create more mistrust should they come to realize what we are doing. We do not necessarily need to gain entrance to check in on Elliot's sister and I would hope they are not forcing others to stay with them," Thesius says openly to his companions.
"We can let them know that another safe haven has been started at Defender's Heart should they need it and them choosing to stay there is not necessarily a bad thing. Often has it been said that putting all your eggs in one basket is not always the wisest decision. If they choose not to come to the Defender's Heart we can still work to create a connection between there and here. They may be in need of supplies and information. This may be a way to help develop trust."
Verene looks dubious, but does not argue. There is value in openness, but to her way of thinking, more value in a first impression that does not leave the metaphorical door slammed in one's face.
Verene keeps her hands open and loose at her sides as they approach. Thamyris, at her request, is merged with her rather than visible on her shoulder. At the guards' hail, she stops as directed and waits for Thesius to take the lead.
Azira keeps Radiance in hand when the two Kellish guards hail them, but she allows the blade to point unthreateningly towards the ground while Thesius replies.
As decided upon by the group, Elliot similarly hangs back for now and looks towards Thesius to do the word, even though the nervous concern for his sister was gradually rising and it was very hard to keep himself in check.
Bells start ringing across the park's edges - though they are far from uniform in tone - and more armed women and men begin to arrive. Soon there are seven armed and armored Kellids - each in a motley assortment of gear.
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Thesius stops upon hearing the word and responds, "Greetings, I am Thesius and these are my companions.[b]" He motions to them in turn as he introduces them, "[b]Merixia, Verene, Azira, and Elliot."
Turning his full attention back to the guard, he continues on, "We heard that there were a group of survivors here and were hoping to open communications. Perhaps start building a support network as well. We came from Defender's Heart where another group of survivors has been working to collaborate."
With a quick glance to Elliot, he makes sure to add in, "We also believe that someone we know may have found refuge with you so we were hoping to get confirmation on whether that is true or not." Turning his gaze back to the guard that spoke, he expands upon that though, "Current circumstances have made it hard for many to find out if family and friends yet still walk with us."
The Kellid woman looks to one of the newcomers, an older man dressed in plain brown clothing, though there are hints of greens and reds in the layers beneath the surface.
"Crusaders." He grunts. "I am Master Vorek of the Ruin Wardens, as we have chosen to name ourselves. I have heard tell of Defender's Heart holding out as a bastion of survivors." He pauses, considering his words carefully. "We had no wish to speak with the last group who sought us out from there. Why do you believe it is any different now?"
"Changing circumstances, Vorek." Another man approaches the impromptu meeting area. This one is younger, and his eyes have a gentle warmth to them. He is followed by a being of androgynous beauty, whose golden wings glint in the sunlight. "I'm God-Caller Rashan. Welcome, crusaders. Who is the one you believe to have found refuge here?"
Thesius prepares to respond to Vorek, but holds off as he hears Rashan speak up. He gives a thankful smile to the man.
With a respectful bow, he responds to the men. "It is a pleasure to meet you Master Vorek and God-Caller Rashan. Changing circumstances are why we have found our way to your doorstep and hope that we may be able to find a united front."
Turning he gestures Elliot forward wishing for him to give his sister's name and perhaps more depending on how the Rune Wardens respond. "We have reason to believe our companion's sister has found her way to you."
Merixia eyes the god-caller's... companion? Guardian spirit? She certainly isn't going to call it a god, not when she's met Ragathiel in her dreams and felt the power of his presence. Whatever it is, it looks angelic, which is probably a good sign. Then again, erinyes are said to retain the beauty of the celestials they were before their fall.
Verene also examines Rashan's golden-winged companion with muted curiosity. Beauty, of course, does not mean benevolence, but Elyda was right that Rashan was the more outwardly friendly of the two men. She also looks for signs of magic anywhere around the people and fortifications before the group.
Azira gives a little curtsy when she’s introduced and even smiles at the sight of the angelic companion. She holds her tongue for the most part but when Rashan mentions changing circumstances she offers, “we banished the demons from Kenabres. There are still some cultists, and opportunists, to contend with but now that the streets are far safer we’re working on making contact with whatever other survivors we can find, so that we can, hopefully, work together in restoring safety and stability.”
Elliot steps forward when Thesius gives him the nod and gives a respectful bow to the two leaders in charge here. True, the title of 'god-caller' was a bit pretentious but then again he didn't know that much of their faith. Everyone was free to believe as they saw fit so long as no one got hurt, or so he thought, plus he owed them majorly for taking care of his sister.
"It is good to meet you, Master Vorek, God-caller Rashan," He says. "We believe my sister, Lyra Worthane, has taken refuge here. If that is true, I am indebted to you in a way I can only hope to ever repay."
He nods towards Azira. "You ask why you should speak with us... well, to elaborate on my companions' words, the five of us, alongside commander Tirabade, assaulted the stronghold of the cultists yesterday and destroyed the wardstone they were hoping to corrupt and use against us. The triggering energy wave, which you and yours might have noticed, appears to have destroyed all of the demons in the area as well as part of the remaining cultists. This should have greatly increased each of our chances of survival, and on the way here we only encountered minimal resistance. It feels to me as though the fight for Kenabres has mostly been won now. Is that enough to be granted entry, or to be considered worthy potential allies at least?"
The druid looks at Elliot, a brow furrowed. "We have no aasimar among us." He says.
His husband nods briefly, but glances at his "god," who shrugs silently.
"If what you say is true, then we have a great deal to thank you about." Vorek says, his voice gruff.
Rashan considers, running a finger over an eyebrow. "While I'm not sure I entirely believe you, but I would say that you're not suspicious enough that we can't speak some more. Thyr, could you call the young lady?" The angelic eidolon flaps away, back into the park.
"It's true that we haven't been attacked by cultists nearly as often in the past few days." Vorek acknowledges. "Alright. What does this Tirabade want from us? I'll hear you out."
Merixia nods to herself. Rashan isn't hostile toward crusaders in general, he just isn't sure what to make of them specifically. That's reasonable given the circumstances and Merixia's presence. Maybe I can help things along a little. She steps forward a little.
"I'm Merixia Pentarian, a priestess of Ragathiel. Do any of your people need healing? I don't have the power to restore missing limbs, but I can heal most wounds."
"We appreciate you hearing us out and I can understand your hesitance to take us at our word. What has transpired can be hard to believe even among us that were there, let alone the distrust the cultists sowed," Thesius says with a thankful smile.
At Vorek's request for further information on what Tiradade would care for, Thesius expands upon the idea. "We know times have been hard for all and we would prefer not to create tension by pushing anyone beyond their means. Currently we seek to create to create an alliance so that we can strengthen both parties."
Nodding a thank you to Merixia, he continues on, "We are happy to help as best we can and hope you will do the same. Currently we have a number of casters among us and may be able to assist in other ways. Is there currently thing you are in need of?"
"All my companions have said is true; in addition to the wave of energy, you may have noticed yesterday the sound of the bells and the appearance of the Kite above the Gray Garrison. That was our doing, to signal to our allies that the mission was successful. So, if you have need of specific supplies or assistance with something, we may be able to help now or at least pass that message along," Verene adds. "Besides looking for Elliot's sister, we would be happy to establish lines of communication and share whatever information we can between us. Also, any who wish—" she stresses the word very slightly— "to take shelter at Defender's Heart should know they are welcome. It is a broad tent, and by no means at capacity."
"Are you able to restore lost limbs?" Vorek asks Merixia. "We have a few who are so significantly injured, but not many."
"Thanks to Vorek's own spells, we are either in fairly good shape or severely hurt." Rashan confirms.
Vorek shifts, waving his husband to quiet. "Before any alliance can be formed, I would speak first of reparations. The crusaders of Kenabres have long oppressed my people and their faith, something that did not change even once the demons arrived." He looks to the party grimly. "What do you propose to begin to repair bridges between our peoples?"
Merixia sighs regretfully, shaking her head. "I wish I could. There are also a few in Defender's Heart who are missing parts, but I just don't have the power to help."
As for reparations? No idea. Hells, Merixia didn't even get here until the day before Armasse! She looks at Verene, hoping the wizard's vast knowledge and silver tongue can help.
Thesius takes his time in responding while trying to recall what he can of the oppression Vorek speaks of.
"I don't know that I am at liberty to make such proposals. None of us are fully aware of what Defender's Heart can currently offer. For now, we can open lines of communication and share knowledge as it appears that you are not in need of what healing we can currently offer. Is there anything in particular that you are currently in need of? Supplies? Information on what may have come of family or friends of the Ruin Wardens?" Thesius inquires while working to maintain a straight face. He felt as if Vorek was taking advantage of a grave situation, but did not simply want to judge until he could recall what Vorek was speaking of.
Vorek shifts, waving his husband to quiet. "Before any alliance can be formed, I would speak first of reparations. The crusaders of Kenabres have long oppressed my people and their faith, something that did not change even once the demons arrived." He looks to the party grimly. "What do you propose to begin to repair bridges between our peoples?"
Ah, there it is. The thought is cynical, but Verene takes a breath and reminds herself of her mother's unfailing patience and threefold rule. The druid group had good and immediate reasons not to trust anyone they saw as allied to the Church, just as Irabeth had said. Their grievance was real, if misdirected. Out loud she says with a balance of sincere sympathy and calm professionalism, "Master Vorek, God-Caller Rashan, we understand that your people have endured a great many injustices amid the climate of fear and mistrust that has pervaded Kenabres ever since the Red Morning Massacre, and that it was only exacerbated by Hulrun Shappok and his Burners. Some of us, too, have been unfairly targeted by the former Prelate and the church of Iomedae's Inquisition." She glances at Elliot. "Those abuses must end with him. I hope that in the coming weeks a new Kenabres can rise from the ashes of the old, one in which the Ruin Wardens receive the respect and the voice that they deserve.
"Now, as Thesius says, we are not some kind of authority. The majority of us are not even crusaders, just people who lived here. And so I will not make you any false guarantees about what will happen when the regular army arrives. But all we have offered so far — supplies, information, alliance, shelter — is yours without condition, and I can promise you this: We will speak on your behalf when the time comes. We will remind those in power of the official and unofficial mistreatment you have faced and the obligation to make reparation for it, if you will tell us what your main objects are." She looks to Rashan. "Certainly, restoring those with severe injuries to health should be one possibility, as we are hoping it will be for some of our friends who took crippling wounds in the invasion. And I will respectfully suggest that any negotiation would likely be more effective if it was not just us speaking on your behalf, but supporting you or some other representative of the Ruin Wardens to speak with your own voice, as one faction of the surviving defenders of the city."
Elliot, in turn, felt a little lost. What exactly was Vorek referring to? The Red Morning Massacre, like Verene supplied? But his addition of being discriminated against 'even since the demons arrived' didn't make much sense to him. The demons arrived prior to the first crusade, when there effectively were no crusaders. As such, there couldn't have been prejudice against them.
Unless he meant the current demon invasion? In that case, this was regrettable behavior from crusaders in Kenabres against fellow survivors trying to hold out and survive the attacks as well. But they had no proof that actually took place, and to what degree. Would other crusaders really attack this place amidst all of this chaos based on old repjudice, when they had already been living here for... how long? Was he lying to get a better deal?
Well, at least Verene and Thesius seemed to be far more eloquent at this than he could be at present. Still... "Master Vorek, forgive me for speaking plainly. I was raised by Ulfen and we tend to be straightforward folk. So, what is it exactly that you wish for? Is it any of the aforementioned short term aid or do you want a concession for a longer term goal? A piece of land for your people to call their own or such? As my friends stated, we unfortunately have no authority granted us at present to make those concessions, but we could bargain for them on your behalf. Would you, in turn, be open to bettering relations with the remaining crusaders? That either of us managed to survive under these very harsh circumstances is surely grounds for mutual respect?"
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For Vorek and his Ruin Wardens more specifically, he isn't certain. He's heard of a few brawls breaking out in various parts of the city between Kellids and crusaders... and whenever a "cult" reared its head, it was usually harshly stamped out by Iomedaen inquisitors. Even when they were judged safe (non-demonic), they were not given the same rights and privileges as a "proper" church. Furthermore, in any conflicts, the local law enforcement tended to assume that such cultists were in the wrong.
He also recalls the reason Elyda left their group - former inquisitors of Iomedae, fallen to insane zeal were harassing Sarkorians in the Park.
Vorek considers. "Food is harder to come by than we would like, and my magic can only do so much to keep it from being inedible." He muses. "Water is of no concern. Medical supplies, perhaps, would be worthwhile, but we have no wish for any crusader priests to come here. We've had enough of them."
"He's dead, then?" Vorek smirks. "That's the best news I've heard since the city was attacked."
"Vorek..." Rashan looks at him, tone scolding. He turns back to Verene and Elliot. "In truth, I have been better treated than I would have expected. Perhaps Thyr's presence dissuaded some of the worst persecution? Nevertheless, it was not a just treatment of myself or my people. We bear a burden over a century old now, and forgiveness is... slow in coming." He considers a moment. "I could represent our interests, but I want you to do so as well. When we meet with your authorities, whoever they are, I would have your support."
At that moment, the angelic eidolon and a woman with severe burn scars on the right side of her face and scalp arrives. She looks at the heroes with narrowed eyes before spying Elliot, and rushes towards him, embracing him tightly. At least one of his family members is safe.
Azira’s jaw tightens and her hands clench up as she listens to others badmouth valiant crusaders for the sins of Hulrun’s zealots, but she bites her tongue and remains silent.
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Thesius listens to each in turn as they speak, working to keep his composure as he weighs the words spoken against what he knows.
Finally he raises his voice once more. "We are happy to relay your needs back to Defender's Heart to see what we can do about procuring the aid you have requested and I would be happy to support your cause within reason. I don't believe anyone should give blind support without first understanding what is being asked of them."
Turning his attention more to Rashan, he continues, "That being said, there are wrongs that should be righted and I would like to better understand. If you choose to join us to represent the Ruin Wardens' interests, I would ask that you help teach me. Albeit, only if you are willing to do so."
Thesius heart aches at seeing the pain that Lyra has undergone, but smiles warmly none the less at seeing the reunion of the siblings. Absentmindedly he takes hold of his wooden holy symbol while a prayer to Desna comes to his lips.
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"He's dead, then?" Vorek smirks. "That's the best news I've heard since the city was attacked."
Merixia returns his smirk. "Dead as a doornail, and good riddance. His body was possessed by a demon, which we slew." She may not have had to deal with Shappok very long, but he harassed her enough that she's glad Kenabres is rid of his zealotry.
Whatever else she might have wanted to say is cut off by the arrival of Elliot's sister and their joyful reunion. Merixia watches the pair, a small, wistful smile on her face. I'm glad my parents and mentor live well away from the war... but I miss them.
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"Food is harder to come by than we would like, and my magic can only do so much to keep it from being inedible." He muses. "Water is of no concern. Medical supplies, perhaps, would be worthwhile, but we have no wish for any crusader priests to come here. We've had enough of them."
"He's dead, then?" Vorek smirks. "That's the best news I've heard since the city was attacked.""Vorek..." Rashan looks at him, tone scolding. He turns back to Verene and Elliot. "In truth, I have been better treated than I would have expected. Perhaps Thyr's presence dissuaded some of the worst persecution? Nevertheless, it was not a just treatment of myself or my people. We bear a burden over a century old now, and forgiveness is... slow in coming." He considers a moment. "I could represent our interests, but I want you to do so as well. When we meet with your authorities, whoever they are, I would have your support."
"We are happy to relay your needs back to Defender's Heart to see what we can do about procuring the aid you have requested and I would be happy to support your cause within reason. I don't believe anyone should give blind support without first understanding what is being asked of them."
Turning his attention more to Rashan, he continues, "That being said, there are wrongs that should be righted and I would like to better understand. If you choose to join us to represent the Ruin Wardens' interests, I would ask that you help teach me. Albeit, only if you are willing to do so."
"As Thesius says," Verene agrees, politely ignoring Vorek's gloating over Hulrun's demise. She had cordially despised the man and could not mourn his death, especially now when it might lead to a positive change in the city's leadership. But she had certainly not been happy to learn that a warrior of his prowess had fallen to the demons who then destroyed the city and caused incalculable suffering. Still, it is not worth challenging, although it is good evidence that Rashan and not Vorek should represent the Ruin Wardens to the outside world. "Some nonperishable food should be easy enough. And while I too would learn the specifics, I will certainly lend my voice to any call for justice and equal treatment. Times are changing in Kenabres. I believe most crusaders, and for that matter most Iomedaeans, are good people doing their best against an existential threat to the entire world; but it only takes one or two bad apples to spoil any barrel, after all — if they are allowed to fester." She hesitates, considering bringing up the gold dragon armor, but then the eidolon Thyr and a young woman who is clearly Elliot's sister arrive, and she falls silent, smiling in happiness and relief.
Elliot's sheer relief at seeing his sister alive became laced with feelings of shame and anger when sees the among of damage his normally beautiful sister's face had taken. But he fiercely hugs her back, more than grateful she'd made it out, at least. "Sis... I... I'm so, so happy that you're safe. But also so sorry that I wasn't here for you. I can only imagine what it was like. Can you forgive me? I wanted to come back sooner but we were so busy fighting demons and cultists that we never had the chance..."
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Azira's jaw and fists relax some at Verene's fairer words about crusaders and her faith. She even smiles, just a little bit, at the touching reunion between Elliot and his sister.
I wish we could have had that, mom... I wonder how many people got a moment just like this because of your sacrifice... maybe I'll still get a moment somewhat like it, if the other Claws are alright... Verene seems to have unlocked a lot of new magic when Iomedae blessed us, maybe she can cast a spell now to find them if they've survived... best to wait until we're done here to ask though...
Vorek purses his lips thoughtfully at the offers extended to him. "You must understand that there is a great deal of inherited trauma for my people here - and even in other places in Mendev."
"Though they are less present there." Rashan adds. "Make no mistake, I am grateful for the crusaders' presence here, for without you, the Worldwound would have been much worse. Nevertheless..."
"Your predecessors made few attempts at understanding our ancestors." Vorek completes his husband's sentence. "I will accept your offer, with the understanding that there is much mistrust amongst us of you southerners."
Lyra says little to her brother, though she weeps (hopefully from relief) into his chest for a long while. Finally, she speaks softly. "It's not your fault. There was nothing you could have done to save them." She says weakly. "And..." Her voice breaks. "And I survived."
Vorek purses his lips thoughtfully at the offers extended to him. "You must understand that there is a great deal of inherited trauma for my people here - and even in other places in Mendev."
"Though they are less present there." Rashan adds. "Make no mistake, I am grateful for the crusaders' presence here, for without you, the Worldwound would have been much worse. Nevertheless..."
"Your predecessors made few attempts at understanding our ancestors." Vorek completes his husband's sentence. "I will accept your offer, with the understanding that there is much mistrust amongst us of you southerners."
Verene turns her eyes politely away from Elliot's reunion with his sister, giving her privacy while she weeps.
To Vorek and Rashan she says gently, "We understand. Much discrimination and misunderstanding toward the survivors of Sarkoris has been left to fester in Kenabres and elsewhere in Mendev. I believe all of us want to contribute to healing instead: of the Worldwound, and of relations between our peoples." Verene considers and finally says carefully, "To that end, there is a thing I would speak of, or perhaps offer to you. A few days ago, we were in the Kenabres underground making our way back to the surface when we encountered a cultist of Deskari, a half-orc woman who could shapeshift into a swarm of insects. I believe she was a corrupted shifter druid. I bring this up because she was wearing a strange armor made of a gold dragon's hide and bone. It put me in mind of the stories told to me as a child by one of my father's friends — Ruarc, a storyteller in the old Sarkorian tradition — about a golden-scaled clan god called the Auric Dawn, who vanished some decades before the opening of the Worldwound. Does any of this sound familiar to you? Do you know what should properly be done with this dragon's remains? We would like to show them the appropriate respect."
""It's not your fault. There was nothing you could have done to save them..." She says weakly. "And..." Her voice breaks. "And I survived."
"Lirri..." He closes his eyes and holds back his own tears as he stood there to offer her support. She needed him to be strong. So he would be hard. Even if he'd just gotten confirmation that his father was also dead. Especially then. There would be a reckoning for this. For what they'd done his family. Many families.
"'Sorry'... Yes, I am also sorry - for many things. How can I ever forgive them? Was I wrong to offer any of them a second chance? What right do I have to forgive someone for the hurt they caused others? Is there even anyone out there among all their ranks who *really* wants to be redeemed, not a faked desire because the alternative is death, but because there is some *actual* measure of decency, of compassion, left to redeem? Because I sure haven't found any! I-!" His mouth felt dry as he watched Lyra's ruined scalp. "Can I really do what Sarenrae asked of me? Would she blame me for wanting revenge?"
"Believe me, I know all about discrimination. I will be glad to speak up on the side of the Kellids and followers of the old ways, but given the fact that I'm a tiefling... well, it's up to you whether you think my voice will help or hurt." Merixia shrugs. "On the one hand, I am a priestess of an empyreal lord, and I know a spell that is unique to Ragathiel's clerics if anyone asks me to prove it. On the other hand, there are a whole lot of people who take one look at me and immediately stop listening to anything I have to say."
Thesius nods at the answer. "I appreciate your willingness to try and I hope we can mend the tear between the people of Kenabres."
Thesius goes quiet while the others speak and waits to hear Vorek and Rashan's answer.
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Vorek's expression grows grave at Verene's words. "I have heard tell of the Auric Dawn, though the clan of whom he was a god is, to my knowledge, extinct. I do not know of his rites, but I will handle his remains with the respect he deserves, should you turn them over to me."
The god-caller looks more alarmed. He turns to his husband and speaks in Hallit.
Elliot's sister lapses into silence save for her sharp and rapid breaths, just hiding her face in his shirt.
Rashan offers Merixia a tired smile. "I understand, though I doubt I've had it as badly as you..." He shakes his head. "If you need anyone to lend an ear to you some time, we can offer each other compassion, no?"
Vorek returns his attention to Thesius. "Give us a few days to prepare, and I will send those who wish to go to the Defender's Heart there to represent us." He says.
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"I do not know who wishes to be redeemed or no. How can I? I can only say to you that I will try to prevent you from taking a life that you should not."
"...A life I should not? In the context of redemption? That would mean you somehow, instrinctively, know who should be spared, even if you believe you don't know how? Were you created that way?" Elliot wonders, gradually feeling the haze lift the longer he had to get used to his sister's mutilated state, and realizing he should probably focus on being happy with her survival over harboring dark thoughts against the purpetrators. It was difficult, but they needed him to be reliable and in control... so he did his best to grit his teeth and put his family's ill fates aside for now.
"Ah... forgive me, my friend, my mind is clouded. I... will reflect later. Study the Light and Birth of Truth, talk to the Priests. Perhaps some of the prisoners we took as well, and try to find my answer. I do not know if there is a desire for redemption if I never seek it. Subdueing them would only be the first step."
"On the other hand, there are a whole lot of people who take one look at me and immediately stop listening to anything I have to say."
""I understand, though I doubt I've had it as badly as you... If you need anyone to lend an ear to you some time, we can offer each other compassion, no?"
At the summoner's response, a wistful smile forms on the fiery magus' features. Rashan was all right, in his book, for stating such and meaning it. "If only each of us could put aside such petty thoughts for one another and fight the demons as an actual whole, supporting one another in the way the demons' nature prevents them from being able to," Elliot adds, as he takes he softly breaks the hug with Lyra to more carefully check his sister for injuries. "Think you can walk with us back to the Hearth?" He asks her, then looks at the rest of the group. "Or... are we heading north first to check the temples? I'd rather get Lyra to safety first, but I understand if Azira wants to go there quickly. We still don't know what happened to her mother."
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Vorek's expression grows grave at Verene's words. "I have heard tell of the Auric Dawn, though the clan of whom he was a god is, to my knowledge, extinct. I do not know of his rites, but I will handle his remains with the respect he deserves, should you turn them over to me."
Thank the gods, someone who can take care of the dragon's remains. Merixia swings her pack onto the icy ground and begins digging through all the stuff crammed in. "Aha!" She pulls out two bundles wrapped in her spare clothes and begins unwrapping them. The larger one is the gold dragonhide armor, the smaller is the dragonbone bracers. "I'm not sure if both of these are from the same dragon, but they both deserve a proper funeral. Wearing something made from an intelligent being's corpse..." She shudders as she hands them over to Vorek. "I don't know how anyone can do that. It's like wearing a human skin cloak or something."
Rashan offers Merixia a tired smile. "I understand, though I doubt I've had it as badly as you..." He shakes his head. "If you need anyone to lend an ear to you some time, we can offer each other compassion, no?"
Merixia returns Rashan's weary smile. "I wish the people here were open-minded enough that you didn't have to understand. Thank you, though. We're not yet finished searching for survivors, but perhaps we can talk sometime afterwards." She gestures toward Elliot. "Hulrun and his cronies mistook Elliot for a tiefling when he was a boy, with predictable consequences. You would think a churchman would be able to recognize an aasimar when he saw one, but you would be wrong. So Elliot gets it too."
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Vorek's expression grows grave at Verene's words. "I have heard tell of the Auric Dawn, though the clan of whom he was a god is, to my knowledge, extinct. I do not know of his rites, but I will handle his remains with the respect he deserves, should you turn them over to me."
The god-caller looks more alarmed. He turns to his husband and speaks in Hallit.
Verene bows her head in acknowledgement. "Thank you. I do not know for sure that they are his. But I trust you will have a better idea of what to do for them than we do, in any case." She helps Merixia unpack the hide armor and dragonbone bracers from her backpack and transfer them carefully over the earthenwork walls to the Ruin Wardens. She observes Rashan's aside to Vorek and says evenly in Taldane, so everyone will understand her, "I do not know she was Sarkorian. The Green Faith is scattered and fractured, and the Worldwound borders the Hold of Belkzen to the west, too."
Vorek returns his attention to Thesius. "Give us a few days to prepare, and I will send those who wish to go to the Defender's Heart there to represent us."
"Are there any others who would like to accompany us now? We are happy to take them with us, though we will likely go north first through Old Kenabres and the temple district. We are also looking for a few other specific people, besides Elliot's sister: Sibylla Lennis, a Chelish woman in middle age missing digits on her right hand; Eithne, the eight-year-old granddaughter of Arthek Elder; Prosper of Hannaloth, a magic-using nobleman with a silver-topped cane; Timon and Sorica Markescu, Varisian young adult duelists; Korryn Strongtooth, a young half-orc woman with large and sharp tusks; and Jin Mai, a Minkaian swordsman. The latter four might be together, or might have gotten separated. Have you seen or heard anything of people matching these descriptions?"
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"Thank you. We appreciate your willingness to work with us," Thesius responds before continuing on, "We will also be continuing our search so please let us know if there is anyone you would like for us to keep an eye out for as well. If you have any information on where others might be, we can try searching there as well."
Rashan nods at Elliot and Merixia's words. "Would that it were so easy." He says simply, before glancing at his god.
Vorek considers the bracers and armor before taking them gently from Merixia's hands. "Some do wear such cloaks." He points out, perhaps a touch dryly. "In some cases, it is to honor the deceased."
The gathered Kellids look to one another at Verene's inquiry, before shaking their heads. "Gar, go check if any of the others wish it." Vorek says, and one of the younger Kellid men dashes off into the park.
Meanwhile, Vorek nods at Verene's mention of Belkzen. "It is possible. Nonetheless, it is... troubling."
His husband responds to her questions of the other names. "Many of the names you have shared are unknown to me, though I have encountered Arthek in the past. His granddaughter is not here, I fear." The pain in his voice is palpable. "However, one other has come here. Jin Mai fought alongside us against demons, but he fell defending our people. We honored him as best as we could."
"He was alone." Vorek interjects.
Rashan nods, and then answers Thesius. "Anyone, Kellid or no, that you can find is better off. We have no specific knowledge of who might have survived more than those who would not have."
"Very well, we will continue to keep an eye out for any we might save," Thesius replies. That was his intent all along, but figured it worth asking in case they had someone specific they were trying to find.
Vorek considers the bracers and armor before taking them gently from Merixia's hands. "Some do wear such cloaks." He points out, perhaps a touch dryly. "In some cases, it is to honor the deceased."
Verene frowns, but only slightly. "What culture or clan would that be? I thought it very nearly a humanoid cultural universal to revile utilizing dead people as things. Other than for mementos, like small locks of hair and saints' relics and so forth. Creatures with no respect for mortal life, like undead, do things like binding books in human skin all the time, of course." Her hand strays to Terendelev's scale in her pocket, and she rubs her thumb over its cool surface uneasily. Were they making a mistake by giving the gold dragon's remains to this man?
His husband responds to her questions of the other names. "Many of the names you have shared are unknown to me, though I have encountered Arthek in the past. His granddaughter is not here, I fear." The pain in his voice is palpable.
"I am sorry to have to tell you that Arthek fell in the initial attack. I found his body in New Kenabres near the home of our landlady Sibylla. But the house was untouched and there was no sign of Eithne. I will keep searching for her, as it is all I can do for him now. Thank you for sheltering those you could, and for your willingness to hear us out."
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Azira continues to hold her tongue, but she smiles warmly when Verene lists off her friends' names among those they were looking for, clearly touched by the wizard's attentiveness and consideration. "They're not that young," she adds rather sheepishly, "those last four; they look about the same age as me... maybe just a little bit younger. They're all fighting age..."
Azira takes a slow, deep breath and then silently nods as her eyes begin to glisten. Another long, controlled breath is enough to hold back a flood of tears. "He came from a long line of demon hunters," she offers to whoever might be listening, "he'll be able to meet his ancestors proudly, knowing that he gave all he had to the fight..."
they were separated again, or further, after I was carried off... that doesn't bode well for the others...
"Was there anyone here who got to talk with him at all before he fell?" she asks the couple. "The five of us were together--Jin Mai and I, with Timon and Sorica, and Korryn--after the attack until I got... we were separated, and I don't know if any of them survived, and I don't even know where to look. Please, is there someone that he might have told where they went before he got separated from them? Then at least I'd have some idea of where to look for them?"
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Merixia walks over to Azira and pulls her into a hug, making sure to telegraph her moves enough that the other woman can easily pull away if she wants. Given how touchy-feely Azira can be, though, Merixia figures she'll appreciate a hug right now. Even an armored hug.
"Don't lose hope, Azira. I won't lie to you, the odds aren't great right now, but your other friends might yet live." Although given that they found the paladin trying to take on an enormous Abyssal beast by herself, and not doing too well at it... well, hopefully Azira's other friends were able to stick together.
Azira seems surprised by Merixia’s tenderness, but she rests her head on the priestess’ armored shoulder and returns the embrace with her free arm. She only does so only for a moment though before whispering, “thank you,” and turning her attention back to the two Ruin Warden leaders for an answer.
"It represented a continuation to them." Vorek replies to Verene, a warning note in his voice. "To carry their ancestors with them."
Rashan nods in turn to the wizard. "Alas. I pray you shall find her and any others that you seek." He looks to Azira, his brow furrowing. "I didn't spend much time with him, I'm afraid, but he did mention coming from the north and losing some of his friends. I'm unsure whether he meant permanently. I wish I could give you better news." His voice is deeply regretful.
The party's decision to go north rather than east is poorly received, but they manage to convince their refugees to follow them along one of Kenabres' old arterial roads. As they go, they pass by the enormous crater that had once been the city surrounding the Kite (where the wardstone had been held, before Armasse).
The refugees mutter darkly, many of them looking increasingly tense as they pass into the ruins of Old Kenabres. The once-wooded area that stood just within the walls has been transformed into a blasted waste of sticks and splinters, and the buildings aren't much better off. The refugees huddle closer.
Eventually, the party arrives where their collective journey began - in Clydwell Plaza. Old Kenabres has been devastated, and it is highly likely that any survivors here are captured, killed, or so well-hidden that it would take many more people than the party has to find them.
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On the way to the next site, Elliot introduces the other party members to his sister. "You know Verene from when she visited us. She has been a source of constant calmth and guidance to all of us in these difficult times. Also incredibly skilled in the arcane arts - I think she might even be better than Master Aravashnial at this point!" he says to Lyra, trying to cheer her up slightly as his he aspired to put own somber thoughts aside. "Then there's Azira. Probably the best swordswoman we still have in the crusade, especially with Radiance - you know, the legendary Sword? Really resilient, too! When we found here, she'd been fighting up here alone for days . When we saw Iomedae's light shine on her as a sign of favor, we knew it was deserved."
He glances at Thesius and pauses, unsure how to best describe him. "Thesius is really reliable. Very worldy and well-spoken, but also great at both fighting and magic. He's helped us out of a lot of dangerous situations." "Also a bit of a heart breaker, from how receptive he is to the affections of others, so it's probably best to not get any ideas. I'm not sure if he does it on purpose or not, or why..." He internally adds, being wise enough not to discuss any topic related to looks with her just then.
"And that is Merixia. She's really sweet! And a great warrior and healer." He doesn't seem to notice his description priorities seemed a bit scrambled there. "We were very lucky she fell down the fissure with us or I'm not sure we'd have made it out of there. Actually, that's a lie - we definitely wouldn't have if not for her skill at either.""I'd like to tell you a lot more of her but this probably isn't the best time."
He looks back at the survivors listening in. "And I'm Elliot! I crack jokes to try and life the mood. Though lately I've branched into taking giant axes to the chest. Nice to meet you all! The five of us and commander Irabeth of the Eagle watch succesfully assaulted the cultists' headquarters yesterday. I understand you might be scared to travel the streets, but between the energy wave we sent yesterday that killed most if not all the demons in the city, and our collective fighting prowess, you're probably safer with us than almost anywhere in Kenabres. We'll do our best to protect you."
When they finally reach the town square, Elliot mutters a quiet prayer to Terendelev as well as all the crusaders and supporting civilians alike that died here. "Well... we're here. Shall I fly up to scout the area from above? I can't really help you with the spell for Azira, so the best I can do is probably stand watch."
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After making polite goodbyes to the Ruin Wardens despite her continuing doubts and departing Truestone Park, Verene sticks close to their new charge in the center of the group as they move northward. She keeps the message and fiend-detection cantrips active. Thamyris pops out of her hood shortly after they get under way to inspect everyone carefully, then positions himself on her shoulder as normal to watch for danger.
When they arrive in Clydwell Plaza, Verene looks around in the eerie quiet of rubble and a few frozen corpses. Once again, she notes the complete absence of Terendelev's body, down to individual scales, and her mind shies away from the implications just as her eyes would turn away from an open wound: as though that will make it stop hurting.
The fierce storm that ended the evening before they struck the Gray Garrison yesterday has thankfully washed away much of the blood, but there are still plenty of ruined buildings with broken pieces of stonework that will do for her purposes. She finds a likely-looking chunk of stone with a faint rust-red stain and brings it over to Azira and Thesius. "Are you ready? Azira, if you wish to attempt this, I must warn you it might be distressing. You will also have to keep concentrating on what you want to know about your mother or friends and their fate while not being distracted by the non-relevant information you see and hear. Thesius said he was willing to try it on your behalf, if you would rather. I assume that is still true."
Verene knows from her studies that stone and brick hold vestigial magical impressions of the past much longer and more clearly than living materials like wood and flesh — especially those from traumatic events. But before yesterday she had only a basic academic understanding of the principles involved; she had never made the effort to learn for herself the specifics of invoking and experiencing said impressions. It should have been impossible to translate that into an actual effect on the world. She still does not think she could accurately record the method of it in runes in a spellbook that anyone could memorize. But she falls again into that deeper form of awareness and it is right there: the connections, the threads of information that make up reality, easy to grasp and bind. Some are too strong yet for her mind to latch onto and bend to her whim. It is possible they always will be. But even this is fantastical beyond belief. Everything she has ever learned tells her that magic should not work this way, should not move to her mere command.
And yet it moves.
When one of the two is ready, she chants a few words, making a gathering motion with the piece of stone, and places it in the volunteer's hand.
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Azira smiles, with an obvious hint of embarrassment, at Elliot's flattering introduction. "I was really only alone for one night, and part of a day... or, parts of two days, I guess," she clarifies. "I was with Jin Mai and three of our friends for a while after the attacks, but we got separated. Your brother and his friends here were gracious enough to let me join them when we happened upon each other, and they've been helping me stay alive ever since. And, it was they who found the sword of Yaniel, though it does seem to have chosen me as its dance partner."
When they arrive at what's left of the plaza, the paladin looks around, struggling a bit to process the devastation. She sighs and shakes her head sadly, but then a look of surprise flashes across her face. "Where is Terendelev?!? You said she fell, but her body should be here. Do you think... could she have survived and hidden herself away somewhere to recover?"
"Elliot..." Azira says meekly, "I know watching for threats will be your first priority while you're up there, but... if you have a chance... could you please keep an eye out for me mom's remains, assuming they are here somewhere? She looks kind of like me, but older, and the day of the festival she was wearing a red satin gown with little sword and sun symbols embroidered on it in white... though it's probably all red by now."
When Verene asks who will receive the spell, Azira is quick to answer,"Thank you for your offer, Thesius, but I'd like to see it with my own eyes..." She sheathes Radiance, kneels, and closes her eyes in preparation for the magic. As the images start to pour through her mind she focuses on the questions burning in her and begins to sort through the details like she'd learned to do with the fast moving conversations in busy social gathering.