Autumn returns to the group just minutes later. “I forgot you wanted these,” she says, handing a bag filled with assorted ritual materials to Vildran. “But remember to sell them for gold after you’re done, or it’ll come out of your share.” When she overhears what Zantus told Morga, she nods in agreement with the priest. “The best way to keep a secret is to just not say anything at all.”
-----
One of her first stops is to the Pillbug’s Pantry—after all, she doesn’t want to be caught carrying poison. She ambles nonchalantly around the store, perusing the various items that sit openly for sale, waiting for the place to empty of any other customers before cautiously approaching the shopkeep. “Good morning,” she begins in a casually friendly voice as her gaze continues to look admiringly at all the wares. “I thought you might be interested in some raw materials for your alchemical products.” She carefully places the poisons and cytillesh oil on the counter, then adds in an undertone, with a meaningful look. “And I was wondering if you might have any miracle cures for sale? I've heard that this is the place to get the very best of anything you could possibly want.”
Vildran gives a guilty and evasive look when Autumn demands profits. He bags the ritual material and runs off to visit the Runewatchers.
--------------------
Vildran enters the doorway and looks for a gathering room where as many Runewatchers as possible are assembled and conversing. Because he is not the most forward individual, he does not simply interrupt them but he very much hopes to be asked what he's been up to lately.
Well... as a matter of fact I have an ANCIENT DANGER to report. I, with the help of my trusty companions, was able to contain said danger. However, I think you'll all find it a matter of particular interest!
He proceeds to relay the tale of his adventures since leaving Sandpoint, lingering on the points of danger, but leaves out how many times he almost died. He also leaves out the particular detail of the Horn, per the party's recent agreement. His finishing flourish is to produce the ritual materials for inspection.
He settles in and willingly takes Q&A as long as any members are interested in his tale, his notes, and his observations.
After fruitful and pleasant interactions, Vildran:
- Offers the organization custody of the ritual materials for a price (yet to be named). He highlights that they're getting the right of first refusal and otherwise his school, the Arcanimirium can always be counted on to compensate him for the finds of his field research.
- Inquires about membership.
- Inquires about tasks or help that the organization or any of its members might need. His first suggestion is mentoring newer mages and helping them with their initial spellbooks.
- Inquires about the organizations selection of magical items and spells.
"Hey Autumn. Do you need someone to carry stuff for you when you're running your errands?" Morga's oddly happy to hang out with Autumn, considering how very different the two women's temperaments are. Still, Autumn's survival instinct has been the difference between living to tell the tale and not on multiple occasions, so she's earned Morga's respect and loyalty.
Also, Morga wants to make sure the group's money gets distributed properly and evenly. If left to her own devices, Autumn might divide it evenly by five and take two portions for herself. Rather than blame the sorceress of moral laxity, Morga finds this foible mildly amusing.
Autumn (and maybe Morga) approach a small shop at the far end of one of the most secluded alleyways in Sandpoint - The Pillbug's Pantry. This shop has a reputation around town as a reliable place for alchemical remedies and magical potions, if you can endure the owner.
Autumn steps inside a cluttered, dimly lit interior and the sounds of the town fade away to be replace by the bubbling of beakers and the fizzing of some volatile liquids. There's no sign of the proprietor, and no other customers, so she rings a creaky bell at the front desk and waits a minute for him to arrive. The squat, balding man that arrives from the back rooms of the shop wipes some kind of white powder off his fingers onto a dirty rag. Aliver "Pillbug" Podiker squints at Autumn from dark, deeply set eyes "The errand girl. Keep your hands where I can see 'em." he speaks gruffly "I know your type." He seems unimpressed by her and remains unfriendly.
"If you've got something to sell, put it on the counter. You'll get no gold from me 'til every last vial gets tested and verified." He waits until Autumn has unloaded everything she wants to liquidate and then carefully inspects the bottles "Now where did you find something like this? Not about town. Not from Nisk's half-baked shop, that's for sure."
-----------
Vildran arrives at the home of Sandpoint's most respected sage, Brodert Quink. This small stone cottage lies at the northwest end of town, right near the Old Light, and its roof still bears the half-melted imprint of a draconic claw that once came to rest atop it amid a battle for the town some years back. When Vildran arrives, the elderly Quink is making himself some tea. He says "Oh, I was wondering when you might stop by. It's not all that often that we have people expressing interest in our little Society and then disappearing for weeks on end." He adjusts his glasses and shuffles his way to an oversized armchair to sit. The rest of the cottage's main room is pile after pile of books, scrolls, trinkets, oddities and tapestries, most of historical interest. The only place for anyone else to sit are a series of stools placed roughly in a circle. Right now they're all empty.
When Vildran goes into a long explanation of the group's activities in Iron Harbor, Quink pulls out a scrapbook and quill and starts jotting down his own notes on the story. "Interesting, quite interesting! A Thassilonian laboratory, it seems." Quink offers a number of questions along the way, skimming lightly over the Gorumites but showing distinct interest in both the laboratory and the link to the demon Xar-Azmak.
When the story is done, Quink jots a few more notes before saying "We have the Hellfire Flumes of course to thank for this. Buried ruins of Ancient Thassilon, that is. And Earthfall, you could say. It is no surprise at all you came across such a facility so close to the old site of Xin-Edasseril, capital of the Empire. The demonic connection is a new angle, and certainly worthy of deeper study." The story seems to have warmed him up.
The ritual materials get a careful inspection, with Quink showing more interest in some of the pouches and ties than in the contents themselves "Hmm, curious." He eventually says "Well, my associates will certainly be able to make good use of these. And I dare say some of their containers were salvaged directly from the site!" He nods firmly.
I'd love to meet your associates and compare notes! This was an opportunity I'd longed for. I could also point out the ruins we explored on a map if any of you wanted to go see for yourselves! After findings such as this, surely it would close the gap needed to perhaps... join the ranks of the Runewatchers? I think I have much to share that would be valuable and I suspect my adventures are only just beginning.
--------------------
After he departs Quink's residence, he thinks on what other important mages reside in Sandpoint that he should visit.
Autumn accepts Morga’s help with a grateful smile, even as she hides her skepticism at the offer. She had let San carry all the heavy weaponry, so her load is comparatively light—for someone in her line of work, the dwarf’s aid is suspicious. But Morga herself is as straightforward, unassuming, and honest as anyone she’s met—though considerably more gruff—so perhaps this assistance really is more of a do-gooder’s generosity.
“Thanks. Here, you can carry these,” she hands over a bulging sack containing the heavier and bulkier artisan’s tools. As they walk, she takes some time to show an interest in the cleric. “So … was your family … close to your great-aunt and uncle? I really hope your parents will be okay when you give them the news.”
When they reach Pillbug’s place though, she cautions “You might want to wait outside. This place has a … certain reputation. Not the sort of place for someone from the church.”
Inside, Autumn continues smiling pleasantly at the unpleasant merchant, unfazed by his grumpy demeanor—after all, she’s spent the past couple weeks with a dwarf. She waits patiently for him to complete his examination, then pushes the bottles towards him and accepts the gold he offers in return. At Podiker’s question about the provenance of her wares, she flashes a mischievous smile.
“That information, like my merchandise, is for sale. Let’s say, five gold? But I will offer this tidbit for free—I know where you can find a raw, plentiful source for this.” She gently taps a vial of cytillesh oil with a teasing finger.
San accompanies Vildran to visit Brodert. They do still have their friendly rivalry to gain membership into the Runewatchers after all. After telling their story and sharing the rubbings and other data, he'll go find Morga, leaving Vildran to discuss finer points of Thasselonian sky metal workshops. But first he points out some of the other mages in town that might help.
While discussing weapons at Savah's, San asks about an odd elven weapon called a branched spear. Somewhat disappointingly, she hadn't heard of it. Instead she suggests a similar dancer's spear. Fewer pointy bits but it's balanced similarly and has a few different uses. Figuring it's close close enough, San accepts. He also makes an inquiry more so that Savah can be helpful rather than San not knowing the answer. "You wouldn't happen to know anyone with skills in magical metalwork do you? We have some runes we need transferred from some of the items we acquired on our trip." He holds out the halberd as an example.
“Thanks. Here, you can carry these,” she hands over a bulging sack containing the heavier and bulkier artisan’s tools. As they walk, she takes some time to show an interest in the cleric. “So … was your family … close to your great-aunt and uncle? I really hope your parents will be okay when you give them the news.”
When they reach Pillbug’s place though, she cautions “You might want to wait outside. This place has a … certain reputation. Not the sort of place for someone from the church.”
Huh. Her parents had completely slipped her mind. "We only knew of them. Never met that branch of the family. But family is family, and it's your duty to take care of your own. ... They might sigh when I tell them, but I don't expect any tears to fall. They're, uh, stoic folk. Don't go in for feelings and whatnot. You know." She looks away awkwardly.
When Autumn suggests waiting outside, Morga shrugs and enters anyway. She wants to make sure Autumn doesn't stiff the party.
----------
At Savah's Armory, Morga sells her breasplate, then goes over to catch up with Auggie for a few minutes while San talks weapons with Savah. It's good to see the affable guy. He's one of the few people who can get Morga to crack a grin. When she sees that San is finishing up, she offers to buy him a round later that evening and fill him in on what she's been up to. (Well, most of it. The horn won't get mentioned, and she has no intention of getting drunk enough to let it slip.) Waving, she joins back up with San.
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Podiker recoils at Autumn's mischievousness and scowls "All the vacuous thoughts rattling about in that head of yours put together aren't worth five gold. Young people these days.... No doubt you filched it off some poor sod on the road." He presses his lips together and snorts, before heading off to a shelf where he takes two 'miracle tonics' and puts them on the counter "Now if you want these, lets see your payment and you can be on your way."
-----
Brodert is glad to have a second perspective from San and peppers both of you with questions about your experience. After San leaves and Vildran broaches the topic of joining the Runewatchers, Brodert ponder for a long moment "Well, you certainly have the enthusiasm and the skills. I'd be a fool not to invite you. Though before you get too excited, we're nothing more than a group of amateur enthusiasts. Well informed enthusiasts to be sure. Collectors as well, some of us." He indicates the piles of esoterica around his own house "If you're still interested after hearing that, you're welcome to join our meetings. They're right here in the evening on the first day of each season. We share our latest findings and any news. I dare say you may have some interesting things to share if you keep this up. And perhaps you'll even earn the respect of some of the others."
After leaving Brodert's house, you both separately try to remember the other magic users around town. Between the two of you, you recall:
- At the Cathedral and Boneyard, both Father Zantus and the gravekeeper Naffer Vosk have some divine gifts.
- At The Way North, the town's mapmaker Veznutt Parooh is known as a hedge wizard of sorts.
- At the Town Hall, rumor has it that the town clerk, Shayliss Vinder, has some minor skill at sorcery.
- The tavern Risa's Place is now run by the titular Risa's daughter, Lanalee Magravi, who frequently uses her elemental gifts to add some pizzazz to the dishes she makes.
- The local bookstore The Curious Goblin is run by one Chask Haladan, who not only offers various mundane tomes but a variety of occult scrolls as well.
- The local school and orphanage, Turandarok Academy, is run by Ilsoari Gandethus, a wizard of some repute. In addition to his activities in teaching the youth he offers arcane spells and scrolls.
- The lodge Mvashti's Place serves travelers (particularly Varisians) and is run by Jiolan Verneeth, who is rumored to have some talent with primal magic. She keeps these skills largely under wraps.
- The Feathered Serpent's Vorvashali Voon sells a few magical curios and is known to have some simple magic himself.
- The herbalist Hannah Velerin at Hannah's has some divine magic that she uses in tandem with her more mundane medical talents.
----
In the center of town along Tower Street lies Savah's Armory, a large and well stocked weapon and armor shop that has for years been a popular stop for both the town guard and any adventurers coming through. The gregarious Savah herself is manning the counter and she happily talks over the goods with San "If you think we don't have an elven branched spear for sale, well, you'd be outright wrong. They were popular a few years back after one of Sandpoint's heroes started using them! And that means we ended up with a few canceled orders and a few leftovers." She smiles "Leftovers that have been waiting for a customer."
"As for magical metalworkers, well, I don't know anyone who's specialized in that kind of work around town, but I know Vorvashali at the Feathered Serpent handles a lot of magical trinkets and does some work of the sort himself. You might be able to cajole him into helping you if you buy something. If you want any magic weapons though, you can always put in an order through the Armory and we'll send the message down to Magnimar for the next caravan to bring something up."
While this conversation is going on, Auggie and Morga have this own chat, with her friend trying to glean some details on her long absence from town.
"You wouldn't happen to know anyone with skills in magical metalwork do you? We have some runes we need transferred from some of the items we acquired on our trip."
After San leaves and Vildran broaches the topic of joining the Runewatchers, Brodert ponder for a long moment "Well, you certainly have the enthusiasm and the skills. I'd be a fool not to invite you. Though before you get too excited, we're nothing more than a group of amateur enthusiasts. Well informed enthusiasts to be sure. Collectors as well, some of us." He indicates the piles of esoterica around his own house "If you're still interested after hearing that, you're welcome to join our meetings. They're right here in the evening on the first day of each season. We share our latest findings and any news. I dare say you may have some interesting things to share if you keep this up. And perhaps you'll even earn the respect of some of the others."
Perfect! Vildran exclaims, grinning ear-to-ear.
Count me in.
In addition to the mages he and San have identified, Vildran inquires with Brodert on whether the members of the Runewatchers ever swap spells or show off spellbooks.
"Now if you want these, lets see your payment and you can be on your way."
In spite of Aliver’s grumpiness, Autumn’s smile remains intact, an impenetrable shield against his barbs. She simply slides four of her coins back across the counter, pockets the ‘curative’ vials, and breezily bids the merchant adieu. “A pleasure.”
After a few more hours of selling and shopping, she heads over to Scarnetti Manor to report to ‘uncle’ Titus.
"As for magical metalworkers, well, I don't know anyone who's specialized in that kind of work around town, but I know Vorvashali at the Feathered Serpent handles a lot of magical trinkets and does some work of the sort himself. You might be able to cajole him into helping you if you buy something. If you want any magic weapons though, you can always put in an order through the Armory and we'll send the message down to Magnimar for the next caravan to bring something up."
"Thanks. We'll ask there first, but if that doesn't work out we'll come back. In the meantime, I'd like to sell this breastplate. We found something more effective recently, and I can only wear one of 'em."
Vildran's last question before he leaves earns curious glance from Brodert "A fine idea, but not all of us old timers have any magic to speak of. If you're looking for a little mystical training, Master Gandethus at the Academy can surely fulfill your needs, once he feels you meet his standards of course. He can be a bit picky, that one."
----
Autumn's coins disappear back into Podiker's coin pouch and soon the "curatives" are securely stowed. He shooes her off with a dismissive wave of his hand as she heads for the door.
Later in the day, Autumn makes her way out of town and along Schooner Gulch Road as it rises up to the top of the bluff overlooking the town. There she finds herself approaching the grand Scarnetti Manor, a pristinely maintained home in a classic Taldan style. After being let in by a pair of servants, she's led through the carpeted halls to a dimly lit workshop where the Scarnetti patriarch is currently examining a freshly mounted deer's head while he smokes a pipe. He ignores Autumn for a short while as he continues his inspection, but after an eventual glance her way, he asks "I'm to understand not only did you not return with that priestess that went missing, but you managed to lose one of my boys in the process. I hope you have something useful to make up for this debacle." His voice is calm, almost disinterested, but Autumn can tell that he's far from happy.
----
After making your purchases and sales at Savah's, Morga leads the way across town to The Feathered Serpent, a curio shop at the south end of town within throwing distance of the shipyard. Parting the strings of colorful beads covering the entrance, you duck inside to find a colorful space packed with all manner of trinkets and smelling strongly of incense. Vorvashali is in the middle of inspecting a large dirt-encrusted medallion when you enter, his brow furrowed. He brightens immediately as he's distracted from his task "Welcome! Oh, come in!"
Vildran will visit Turandarok Academy next. He is unsure of the schedule there, so he will approach it and see if Master Gandethus is available when he arrives.
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Autumn sighs with envy as she walks through the luxurious manor, her feet sinking contentedly into the plush carpets. Now this, this is a lifestyle to aspire to. Juxtaposed against her time in Iron Harbor, the Scarnetti home is even more appealing than usual.
She waits patiently for the patriarch to speak first, taking the time to compose and prepare herself. Of course she has a ready answer, a silver lining that is exactly as useful as a powerful artifact, but it’s an option of absolute last resort—as much as she desires Titus’s influence and knowledge, there’s a line she won’t cross … at least not yet. Stealing is one thing, but risking the resurrection of a powerful demon? The horn needs to remain a secret, and information about her mother will have to wait a little longer.
“Come now,” she counters in a light voice that is somehow both playful and respectful, “such idle aspersions don’t suit you. The boy lost himself. I’m no more responsible for him than for whoever told you that a princess is missing.” She shakes her head as her tone darkens and becomes more serious. “I barely survived myself. The priestess was attacked and pursued by a horde of dero. We arrived just in time to save her—and frankly, we’re lucky that more people didn’t die.”
The sorceress sighs. “So … the priestess—her name is Ceyn Ordwi, follower of Cayden Cailean—insisted that we take her to Iron Harbor. And the others—I caught up with the other group from Sandpoint—agreed, so what was I to do?” She shrugs, then proceeds to relate the tale of how they then had to rescue Ordwi again, this time from cultists and demons and gods know what else.
“Anyway, I tried to persuade her to return, but she insisted on staying there to help the village recover. I didn’t press the issue because … well, she’s not a princess, and I’m not really sure what you’d do with a cleric of The Lucky Drunk.” She shrugs again, maintaining an easy tone even as she reaches the crux of her argument. “But if you really want a holy person on your side, wouldn’t you prefer Father Zantus and the Sandpoint Cathedral—established and trusted citizens, instead of some random priestess who worships booze?” Autumn tucks a stray hair behind her headband and smiles.
“So, I got to know one of the others pretty well—she’s just a low-level acolyte who works at the church, but she has the Father’s respect. And consequently, so do I. I’m sure you’ve already heard that we paid a visit to the cathedral. Wouldn’t it be helpful to have someone who could improve your standing with them? I’ve heard there’s been some … friction from the church.”
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"A priestess of Cayden Cailean, is it? Pah." He returns his attention to the mounted head tapping a glassy eyeball and frowning "Its far from useless to have a priestess in your debt, but those cozying up to that particular god are usually rather lackadaisical. Still, if she shows up here, I expect introductions and credit where it was due." As he listens to the rest of the tale he frowns, then grows thoughtful "I've heard of this town. Part of the new dominion of that self-styled Runelord. I imagine something can be made of that. Nevertheless, it is a distant prospect."
"As for your church girl, it remains to be seen if she has any value. Convince her to work for me, in addition to her important duties at the Cathedral and perhaps that will make up for your earlier mess." He turns back to Autumn "Anything else for me?"
Autumn can tell her answer hasn't particularly endeared herself to him, but it also hasn't angered him further. It'll take more work, and more buttering up, to get on his good side (if he has one).
----
Turandarok Academy is one of the larger buildings in town, an imposing stone structure near the harbor, left over from the older days. It hums with the voices of children during the day, and with a peek inside Vildran can see a few locals that work for Master Gandethus attempting to corral kids from several ancestries toward a table for dinner. After a little asking around, you're able to make your way to an office where you can speak with the older wizard.
Master Ilsoari Gandethus is a gaunt, tall human in a tailored suit that seems just a little shabby. He greets you coolly as you enter "Are you here to enroll a child?"
“Still, if she shows up here, I expect introductions and credit where it was due.”
“But of course,” Autumn nods agreeably. “Iron Harbor is barely a village, but should you have dealings with them in the future, we can contact Ordwi—she could prove a useful connection.”
She nods at his request to convince Morga to work for him. When he asks if she has anything else, she stifles the urge to ask about her mother, knowing not to push her luck—she needs to get Titus in a better mood first. Instead she simply says “Have you any other tasks for me?” before thanking the nobleman and taking her leave.
After making your purchases and sales at Savah's, Morga leads the way across town to The Feathered Serpent, a curio shop at the south end of town within throwing distance of the shipyard. Parting the strings of colorful beads covering the entrance, you duck inside to find a colorful space packed with all manner of trinkets and smelling strongly of incense. Vorvashali is in the middle of inspecting a large dirt-encrusted medallion when you enter, his brow furrowed. He brightens...
Entering , Morga nods a greeting. Recalling that Vorvashali's preferred way to earn money is to sell goods, not services, she leads with that. "Hello sir. We heard you might have some interesting magical items for sale. Do you have any healing potions? And are you able to transfer runes from one weapon to another?"
Titus offers Autumn little else, simply telling her "There may be some other minor task that arises, but nothing else for now." She's escorted back out of the manor and given a silver coin by one of the staff for her trouble.
The next day Autumn stops by Sandpoint Savories, finding herself waiting in line as Alma and her assistants handle the crowds of locals buying the day's bread and other baked goods. Eventually she's able to get to the front as the crowd thins out and is met by a broad smile from Alma "Welcome back Autumn! Word is you were on quite the journey. You bring anything back for Auntie Alma?"
-----
Vorvashali nods eagerly to Morga "Oh yes, of course. I'm sure I have a few healing potions somewhere. And transferring runes, well-" He puffs out his chest "-one of my specialties, if I do say so."
He's happy to accept Morga's gold and set about working on getting the rune moved around.
-----
Turandarok Academy is one of the larger buildings in town, an imposing stone structure near the harbor, left over from the older days. It hums with the voices of children during the day, and with a peek inside Vildran can see a few locals that work for Master Gandethus attempting to corral kids from several ancestries toward a table for dinner. After a little asking around, you're able to make your way to an office where you can speak with the older wizard.
Master Ilsoari Gandethus is a gaunt, tall human in a tailored suit that seems just a little shabby. He greets you coolly as you enter "Are you here to enroll a child?"
Vildran chuckles nervously.
No sir, I have no child. This visit is more of a pleasant professional courtesy of reporting on findings, and comparing notes as two fellow arcanists. I'm curious as to your library of spells. I could also utilize my skills to offer some helpful instruction to your pupils. Finally, there are my recent travels to Iron Harbor and delving into Thasselonian ruins. Would that interest you at all?
He sort of gives Master Gandethus a "menu" so as to see what piques his interest and not otherwise waste his time.
“Sorry Alma, it wasn’t that type of trip,” Autumn smiles gently with sparkling eyes. “All I have are stories fit for a bard.” She purchases a half-dozen blueberry muffins, then stands off to the side of the counter as she relates her tale in drips and drabs, pausing each time Alma needs to serve a customer. Unlike her retelling to Titus, which was generally direct and concise, the sorceress adds flair and drama to this story, playing up the numerous life-and-death situations the party had to overcome.
“It really was quite the adventure,” she concludes, “but I must say, I am so glad to be back in Sandpoint. I really missed this place. And …” she takes another contented bite out of her freshly baked muffin, pausing to savor the experience with half-closed eyes “… I really missed your muffins. They had some decent ones in New Thassilon, but nothing compared to yours.” She flashes a genuine smile. “It’s good to be back with friends.”
“But enough about me. What’s been happening here while I’ve been gone? Any juicy gossip?”
Master Gandethus looks about to complain about his time being wasted, but then Vildran hits his stride in sharing some details about the ancient ruins under Rusthenge. He's not a man that's easily impressed, but it seems Vildran manages to get through to him. The fellow wizard leans back "Well now. Have you shared this with Brodert? I am absolutely certain he would be overjoyed to hear this as well." He steeples his hands "As fascinating as it is though, I'm afraid I will have to disappoint you regarding the sharing of spells and allowing you to instruct any of the young children here under my protection."
"I have had some poor experiences in the past of, lets say, less than reputable sorts attempting to use this establishment for their misdeeds. Either as a platform for recruiting young orphans for nefarious things under the cover of 'tutelage', or using magic I've shared with them for illegal activity." He shakes his head "While you are not new to the town, I cannot fully vet your intentions as of now. Perhaps once I know you better, or you establish yourself as a man of character."
----
Alma is delighted as she listens in to Autumn's tale of the group's adventures in Iron Harbor, as are several other visitors to the bakery that stop by for a time and listen in. Many hardly seem to believe the details, audibly assuming this is either heavily embellished or an outright tall tale. But Alma listens along as she continues her work, delivering a running series of comments and questions about the events as they unfolded. As Autumn's story is wrapping up, the day's work at the bakery is too. Alma takes off her apron and folds it up. "I can't say I've heard a more outrageous story since the ones about the Heroes of Sandpoint. Those of course, we lived through, but even so they've grown harder and harder to believe with the passing of years. Yours dear, are somehow even more so! Rust demons and evil cults!" She shakes her head with a smile. "And even so you're back in one piece and better than ever."
"I'm afraid little old Sandpoint will be a dull disappointment after an adventure like that. Not much in the way of rumors, beyond the usual speculation about who visited who late at night and behind their partner's back. You know how it is! Some folks have been talking about old Titus making another move for the Mayor-ship, though that's been talked about for years now without Kendra moving one inch." She shrugs "Other than that, its the same as always - mystery noises from Junker's Edge in the night, or unexplained lights off the coast, or something spooky or other at the old Glassworks. People love a good ghost story."
"Anyway, I have to get the shop closed, but please do come back any time. It was lovely having you entertaining the customers." She winks at Autumn. "Here, take some more muffins for the road."
"While you are not new to the town, I cannot fully vet your intentions as of now. Perhaps once I know you better, or you establish yourself as a man of character."
Certainly! Vildran concedes.
Is there anything I can otherwise help with that doesn't involve interacting with the school?
“Well, I needed to add some pizzazz, or no one would listen, right?” Autumn chuckles easily at Alma’s incredulity. “But your advice is duly noted. Less fantasy, more realism next time.”
She gratefully accepts the extra muffins and apologizes for taking up so much of the baker’s time—she didn’t intend to spend her entire morning there! The next hour is spent distributing muffins: one each to Morga, San, and Vildran, to earn the dwarf’s good graces in preparation for her future working relationship with the Scarnettis (and in case Titus decides to have her ask the elves to work for him too--you never know). She finds Morga and San at the Feathered Serpent, where she purchases a healing potion to further endear herself to the cleric. The rest of the muffins are donated to Father Zantus with a heartfelt ‘Thank you’ and a knowing wink.
The sorceress spends a bit of time shopping, albeit in magical disguise—the items she’s looking for, while not exactly illegal, aren’t things that she wants known to be in her possession. The next few days are rather strange for her. With her new magical items, one would think she’d be running all sorts of cons, but scoring a measly gold is now lackluster compared to the treasures she found in Rusthenge.
Instead, she devotes her time to ingratiating herself with Morga and Father Zantus, to win Titus’s favor and hopefully information about her mother. “So … “ she approaches Morga one day, “… after all those near death experiences we’ve had—I’ve been thinking. About what happens after … well, you know. And I was wondering—how did you choose to worship Desna? And how do you know she’s the right goddess for you?”
Master Gandethus looks to be about to refuse when he stops himself "I suppose there is one small matter. Some months ago, I'd heard that Vorvashali had come into the possession of a curious object purportedly of Thassilonian origin. Something retrieved by adventurers that came through the area... a clockwork key. When I went to ask him about it, he told me he did not have it." He sighs "He and I have not always seen eye to eye, so I suspect he may simply be unwilling to sell it to me specifically. If you could inquire on my behalf, it would be appreciated. Even better if you could get the key for me."
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Vildran nods.
It sounds easy enough. I will go inquire about it.
He departs from the academy.
Morga accepts the muffin gratefully. Only as she's licking the last crumbs from her fingers does a thought occur to her: What is Autumn up to? And then the sorceress buys her a healing potion. Really? Is she angling for something?
Home seems even more oppressive than it ever had before, and Morga can't help but feel like she's being slowly suffocated while she's there. And I was right. They didn't even care about what happened to Great-Uncle Guntrand and Great-Aunt Hilga. To escape, she spends as much time as she can at the cathedral, pouring through old tomes for information about Xar-Azmak once she's finished her normal acolyte's duties.
Vildran heads back home, and cracks open the scrolls the team found in Iron Harbor.
(6gp)
(6gp)
(2gp)
Spending 5 hours, 14gp total on transcription.
After which he gives the scrolls to Autumn for emergency usage
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San smiles as Autumn comes with treats. Letting the two talk, he makes his order with Vorvashali, handing over the weapons to have their enchantments moved. Preparing himself to re-integrate into everyday life in Sanpoint is a much harder task. Bracing himself to reuinite with his parents, San stops off at Hanna's to procrastinate. He ends up spending a good bit of time telling her all about the cult and the skymetal lab and the dangerous and interesting things they found. He stops short of telling about the horn but the rest of the story is free game.
Finally getting around to getting home, he readies himself for the combination of relief and scolding his mother is going to give him. Is father going to be proud? Aloof? Seemingly not caring but secretly happy San is back? After all the doting and story telling and judging looks, San finally gets a moment of peace in his room. He reflects on his recent experiences and what his life looks like now. Obviously his parents are glad he is back... but this minor crafter's life is not for him. He also realizes that he's glad he never ran in to any real trouble in his excursions to junkyard beach and the surroundings of Sandpoint. It was only with his companions that they were able to overcome the challenges below Rusthenge. He wouldn't fare nearly as well by himself.
The days following are filled with finding out if he could have some greater role with the guard than just training and joining Vildran in their joint quest to gain entry into the Runewatchers.
It isn’t long before Morga figures out what Autumn is up to. Actually, there isn’t much to figure out, as the sorceress more or less just tells her—unless this is just a diversion from what she really wants?
The day after giving the cleric a healing potion, while they’re both working in an empty part of the cathedral, Autumn says “So … you’ve lived here for a while, haven’t you? You must know pretty much everyone in town. What do you think of old Titus Scarnetti?” Forestalling the dwarf’s suspicion, she discloses the reason for her curiosity. “I’ve heard he’s interested in having you work for him.”
Morga spends the week working with Father Zantus at the Cathedral, occasionally tackling odd jobs but mostly burying her nose in the tomes of the Cathedral's small library. Her search finds records of many gods and demons both, and even descriptions of the various demon lords. However there is nothing about Xar-Azmak beyond a vague mention of the name. Father Zantus similarly finds very little, other than a single reference under a list of demon lords presumed missing or dead.
Autumn similarly helps out around the Cathedral, but her goals are very different than Morga's. She makes herself as charming and helpful as possible, trying to impress Zantus.
San on the other hand works with the Town Guard, and under the guidance of Sheriff Hemlock, participates in a few rather dull shifts and a few more interesting training sessions. He finds that his experiences in Iron Harbor have definitely honed his skills, bringing him distinctly above the proficiency of any of the town's regular guard. It's clear that Hemlock appreciates the help, and the guard are eager to pepper him with questions about his experience.
Vildran takes half a day in study to transcribe his new spells. With his spellbook expanded, he's able to turn his remaining free time to another task...
Vildran finishes his first day tired, but satisfied having populated his spellbook a little further. He doesn't meet up with the others that evening.
The next day he does visit Vorvashali to inquire about the relic, an how much it could be sold for.
For the rest of the week after that he splits his time between Brodert and Master Gandethus in an attempt to make an impression and earn trust with both of them.
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It isn’t long before Morga figures out what Autumn is up to. Actually, there isn’t much to figure out, as the sorceress more or less just tells her—unless this is just a diversion from what she really wants?
The day after giving the cleric a healing potion, while they’re both working in an empty part of the cathedral, Autumn says “So … you’ve lived here for a while, haven’t you? You must know pretty much everyone in town. What do you think of old Titus Scarnetti?” Forestalling the dwarf’s suspicion, she discloses the reason for her curiosity. “I’ve heard he’s interested in having you work for him.”
"Uh, like, me specifically? Why?" Morga's heard of Titus Scarnetti, certainly, but hasn't worked directly for him. "He's got a rod up his shirt, and some folks say he's working with the Sczarni gangs. He really doesn't like the Mayor, and vice versa, but beyond that, I've got no clue. He runs in very different circles than my folks. He's powerful, but most folks don't like him. ... What the heck would he need me for? I don't cut lumber any better than anyone else."
"What the heck would he need me for? I don't cut lumber any better than anyone else."
Autumn shrugs easily. “I guess because he thinks you’ll be useful somehow?” She doesn’t seem bothered in the slightest by Morga’s confusion—if anything, she finds it rather amusing. Nor does she seem concerned about whether the cleric says yes or no. “Anyway, that’s what I’ve heard. I just thought you might be interested in working for someone with real power—and I’m sure he could pay real well if he wanted to.”
She lets the thought linger, giving the dwarf plenty of time to mull over the idea, then changes tack, as if this business with Titus were just an appetizer for her real goal. “Anyway, I also have a favor to ask of you. It’s … it’s not something I can tell you right now. But when the time comes, can I count on you for help? Please?” There’s a quiet earnestness in her voice.
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When Vildran drops off the scrolls, Autumn quickly skims each one, then reluctantly hands the mud pit scroll back to the wizard. “Thanks,” she says, “but this one doesn’t feel right. I can’t explain it, but it’s not something I can use. Sorry.” She pauses, thinking, then adds, “But I’ll go with you to see Vorvashali. Maybe I can help convince him.” After all, it wouldn’t hurt to have the wizard owe her favor.
Vorvashali looks Vildran over for a moment before saying "A clockwork key? An odd request! Yes, I do have such a thing. Brought into my hands by a brave group of adventurers who said they found it in the Pit, that den of danger that lies upon Devil's Platter to the south east of town. They risked life and limb to retrieve it, and so I must ask a high price for this mysterious and magical artifact. 500 gold pieces would be the absolute minimum I would accept."
---
While Autumn certainly earns Zantus' appreciation, there must be something in her attitude that doesn't quite sit well with him, because she does not find herself establishing the kind of good rapport that she was hoping the achieve.
---
San spends his time with the guard trying to make sure Sheriff Hemlock knows he is taking his duty to watch out for the safety of the horn seriously. He also tries to give some of the younger militia some pointers on their form. Of course, the stories he brings are of great interest but San isn't the best story teller...
“Anyway, I also have a favor to ask of you. It’s … it’s not something I can tell you right now. But when the time comes, can I count on you for help? Please?” There’s a quiet earnestness in her voice.
Oh! Something's serious. What is it? Morga gets the feeling this is something *way* more consequential than typical time-of-the-month stuff. "Of course!" Autumn brought her back from the brink of death multiple times. The least Morga can do is have her back in a tough situation, whatever it may be.
While San gets some good training in and his stories grab the attention of the rank and file guards, Hemlock proves just as stern and straightlaced as always. Perhaps the danger introduced by the party bringing back the Horn of Rust is weighing on him, but no particular rapport springs up between the elf and the Sheriff. At least not yet.
---
500 gold pieces would be the absolute minimum I would accept.
Vildran does a very real double-take.
I, um, err...
He looks around at the ground as if it will yield his needed words or social skill.
I admit I do not have that kind of money. Do you offer some form of payment plan? Or, do you have need of help that a wizard such as myself can offer in lieu of some of the gold?
Vildran spends the rest of his week visiting with Master Gandethus at the academy. he asks innocent enough questions about things he saw in the depths of Iron Harbor.
Morga gets the feeling this is something *way* more consequential than typical time-of-the-month stuff. "Of course!"
“Thanks.” Autumn reaches out and takes Morga’s hand, giving it a heartfelt squeeze. “I really appreciate it.” She seems surprised at the immediate willingness of the cleric to agree to her request—if their roles were reversed, she’s not at all sure she’d do the same.
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At the Feathered Serpent, Autumn balks at the price. There’s no point bargaining the price down—they wouldn’t be able to afford the key even if it were 50% off. “Maybe he can be your indentured servant?” she quips.
The merchant's eyes twinkle at your reactions "No, no. While I would not mind a hand around here, I am afraid it would not afford you a preferential price on such a unique artifact even so. But!" He smiles, perhaps a little cheekily "What I see before me are two resourceful souls. Adventurers of high caliber. Perhaps as high as the woman that sold this to me to begin with. You may think this price unreasonable now, but maybe you will find something just as desirable to offer in trade. In fact, I am willing to count on you doing so."
---
Vildran finds the elder wizard to be a busy man, between teaching the town's children and helping with the care of the orphans. He's undeniably a generous, kind soul toward children, but he's absolutely nothing of the sort toward his fellow mages. He rebuffs Vildran's attempts to cozy up to him over the course of the week, even snapping once or twice. It seems he'll be a hard nut to crack.
---
You settle back into your lives in town, making friends and filling your families in on as much of your adventures in Iron Harbor as you're willing to share. The story of your journey and its dangers makes its way through the town like wildfire (in no small part thanks to Autumn's and San's storytime), and all of you find yourselves explaining and retelling parts to interested parties. For a town like Sandpoint, its some of the most exciting action all year.
A little over a week after you return, you are all summoned to the Cathedral once more. It seems Father Zantus has something to share. When you arrive, you find the head priest siting together with an older robed woman on a veranda that rims the southern end of the cathedral. From there the two of them are looking out from the cathedral's rise and across the roofs of the town. Abstalar sees you all approach and smiles. "Greetings all of you. Take a set and rest for a moment. I have some grapes here that Audrahni brought in from the south." He offers you all to take a bunch from a large tray of plump grapes.
"I'd like you all to meet Audrahni. Audrahni, there are the four I mentioned to you." He directs introductions for a moment. The robed woman lowers her hood and you can see she's pale, dark eyed elven woman of middle age. Her mannerisms are far from the grace stereotypical of her ancestry and she sits rather awkwardly and ill at ease. She shakes each of your hands. Zantus continues "I sent a letter to Magnimar to ask her for her assistance with this Horn dilemma of ours, and she was kind enough to make haste here to assist us. However... it seems my letter wasn't the reason why she was so quick to arrive." He looks to Audrahni.
The elf sighs "I am afraid not, Abstalar." She turns to the four of you. "I came in part because of a premonition. The last time I passed through Sandpoint, I sensed an unquiet. A stirring of spirits. Something ill, something unresolved." She fiddles with her hands "I travel much across Varisia. From Magnimar, to Riddleport, even as far as Kaer Maga. And this is a land with many dark legacies. Wounds upon the fabric. A year ago when I had some to speak with Abstalar last I had felt it then." She gazes off into the town. "As I said, Varisia is full of such places, and in many cases there is nothing to be done and people live their lives without even facing it."
She pauses to fumble with a grape and then continues without eating it "It was strange then when I felt a strong premonition that Sandpoint's wound was throbbing. I came to warn Abstalar. It may prove to be nothing..." She trails off.
Zantus shakes his head "No, I trust your judgement Audrahni. And personally, I know one particular wound upon the spirit of the town that yet lies unresolved. One that has haunted me these last seventeen years." He looks you each in your eyes and asks "I expect you've all heard the stories of seventeen years prior. Of the troubles here in Sandpoint."
"What do you know of Nualia?"
Vildran leaves Vorvashali's feigning hope, but feeling somewhat defeated inside. Similarly his lack of break-through with Gandethus sticks in his craw. Vildran is officially in a bad mood.
--------------------
Vildran leans on his staff, and smiles warmly when introduced to Audrahni. As she begins speaking he quickly does not like where it is headed. He'd hoped for fascinating findings about the horn, not more trouble.
He's still frowning and scratching his chin when asked about Nualia. Of course. One assigned to this town to do historical field research would of course have studied all major events in the area.
Nualia was an aasimar who planned and executed raids on Sandpoint using a local goblin tribe. The Heroes of Sandpoint tracked her down to the island-fortress of Thistletop, where she was defeated. he states, matter-of-factly from his vast historical knowledge (which does him no good in the depths of dungeons).
Greeting the woman, San listens with rapt attention. Something in our town?? This is almost more exciting than Iron Harbor!
At the question of Nualia he nods with Vildran, "She also was a scion of some sort of Lamashtu. I remember the mood around town that a a child she could cause all kinds of miracles and it drove her to isolation. She disappeared for a while before the Goblin thing."
Honestly, Morga doesn't remember much of anything from those times, despite living through them. She had kept her head down and done her labors, as her family was wont to do, and let the trouble burn itself out on its own. She listens, her eyes now open to the folly of willful ignorance, and absorbs what she can. Hopefully they'll explain everything of their own accord so she doesn't have to ask.
Autumn greets Audrahni with a friendly, confident smile—almost as if she sensed weakness in the elf’s awkwardness—and munches contentedly on a handful of grapes. That contentment, however, quickly turns into a growing unease as Audrahni’s reason for visiting is revealed.
“Nualia?” The sorceress looks at the elves and the dwarf, then shrugs her shoulders. “Sorry—I haven’t been in Sandpoint nearly as long as the others. But … I think I heard that she was tied to this church somehow? Or the old church, before it burned down. What does she have to do with all this?”
Father Zantus confirms your various recollections "You remember well. I still remember the terror that ruled in that time, with attacks from outside and within. With the goblin raid on the day of the festival, and a growing army of them threatening us." He looks weary as he thinks back "Thanks to heroes that rose up in response to the growing goblin attacks, she was eventually defeated. Though most around town believe those adventurers killed her and thus ended the attacks, they shared with me that they instead found in within themselves to offer her mercy. By their decision she was secretly exiled and while I do not know where she eventually ended up, I do know that something else eventually ended her life. By means of a courier her remains were returned to Sandpoint and, quietly, buried back in the town where she was born."
He folds his hands together "Over the past seventeen years, I've done much thinking on Nualia, especially in the years since her remains were returned. It is without contention that she brought great evil upon the town. However, all of us who lived in Sandpoint at the time are not entirely blameless either. I especially reflect on my own role. That I only came to town after the fire that took my predecessor's life is no excuse - all of those who worship Desna should know better and treat the children of the world more kindly. "
"I remember how the town treated her. A lone aasimar girl - in equal parts a font of angelic blessings to keep upon a pedestal, and a special jewel to jealously desire. My predecessor's failure to be a good father figure - no, to actively exploit her for his own ends - was a true betrayal. And we know from her writings just how much all of this treatment weighed down upon her, eventually serving as the seed that quickened into her pact with Lamashtu."
He closes his eyes, his lined face heavy. When he speaks up again its with a degree of resolve "When Audrahni came to me yesterday and spoke of an unresolved spiritual wound, I could only think of this. That Sandpoint's elders once drove a young woman into the dark, and they never faced judgement for that decision. As well, Nualia's spirit too may be lingering, her desire for revenge against those that wronged her never quenched."
"And so, Audrahni has offered to serve as the conduit for a ritual to contact her spirit, that we might understand and, if we can, settle any lingering torments. For this, I had hoped we might ask for your assistance with the ritual."
Audrahni, who had been quiet as Zantus was explaining, seems a little surprised that he's now looking at her. She speaks up in halting tones "Ah, yes. There are multiple parts to this, and in some I will be completely transfixed. There is need for some assistance to execute the ritual, which Abstalar can mostly provide, but there is also the risk of danger if the spirit proves... unruly. Magical and martial reinforcement both would be welcomed."