Waiting on someone to actually approached her and ask at this point.
Then I wish you best on your exploration. Please, do not hesitate to retreat here if overwhelmed. May the Inheritor lend you her strength!
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If you need one skilled in those things, perhaps Yakopulio or the tiefling, Damalia, could assist you. It is my understanding that each of them has a way with getting past security measures, though rumor has it that Damalia is a bit more proficient. Regardless, I do not have either of them scheduled for any important to our cause for a while. Feel free to ask one of them to join you, if you feel that would help in making this excursion successful, Beppo.
I agree, sir. We each lead best in our own ways. I have heard about your prowess on the battlefield, and those you have trained speak highly of the tactical expertise you have shared. I believe you will do fine in the role. Realizing he made a pun, though not intention, Arael stifles a smile. No offense. Ailyn, please.
After a week, Ailyn and Arael pull the group into his 'office.' It's a bit cramped, but Arael insists. Ailyn wants to talk to you all about the mission, but first, let's talk about Tessai. Unfortunately, in her condition, she cannot fight, or lead the team on the battlefield. She refuses to allow us to take up the Hellknights' offer to have a cleric of Asmodeus help her out. As most of you know, our own divine magic here isn't strong enough to help her. I have a few ideas I'm working on, but all of them will take some time. I don't want to alarm you all. You have a job that must be focused on right now. But, please keep her in your prayers. She seems to be falling into a fit of depression, and I'm afraid that I've been able to do much to bring her out. Rest assured, during your absence, The others and I will tend to her every need as best as possible. Arael pauses for a minute before continuing on.
I think that is fair. Brandon, if I may ask you to communicate that with her. You all have a closer relationship with her than I do. Thank you.
Arael listens carefully to Brandon's words. Your concern is well founded, my friend. I have been working hard, alongside with Kyle and Fiosa, to reach out to everyone and remind them that we are working with higher purpose. And while adversity will come our way, the Inheritor will see us through this and even darker darkness in the coming months, and possibly years. However, my biggest concern is for Tessai. For lack of a deeper insight, I believe she is having a crisis of faith. She's been lost in herself, and falling into a pit of depression and despair. I dare say, I once heard her ask the gods "Why did you not just let me die?" My heart is saddened for her. I freely admit that the deity she crusades for, Cayden Cailean, eludes my complete understanding. But, to see anyone lose such strong convictions so quickly disturbs me greatly. And, yes, you are right. It impacts the group as a whole, especially given her role which, at least for now, she can no longer carry out. He gets up. That will have to be another, heart sinking conversation we will have to have. As long as Tessai cannot carry herself in battle, and new field leader will have to be chosen. I leave it up to you and your friends as to whether you want to tell Tessai. If you do, however, I would give it some time.
Please, Janiven. You embaress me. I simply communicate the vision that The Inheritor, Iomedae, shares with me. The tall, thin elf has weathered skin. Clearly, he has known his share of hard times and labor. His all brown eyes and hair seem unusual from a race that tends to sport more unusual colors. Tall and somewhat lanky, he quickly crosses the room to you in only a few steps, thrusting his hand out in greeting. Praise be to the goddess, to find more hearts sincere to help free this city from this shadowy influence. I look forward to working with you towards that end.
After the 'party' resumes, someone approaches Brandon. As one who never seems to partake of alcohol, Arael's thoughts are as calm and collect as ever. Putting a hand on his shoulder, he says, I am truly sorry that I do not have the faith, myself, to be greater help to our mutual friend. However, do not think I have given up either. I am always seeking the blessings of our goddess. And if I'm not worthy of such power, and there is not one in Cheliax outside of the devil worshippers, perhaps we take our search elsewhere. We are all too busy with our work here to engage in a search in another country, but the way I see it, Ailyn will owe us a favor or three if you guys find those things that she seeks from the Pathfinder Lodge. Focus on that for now, Brandon. I don't have much experience in the way of diplomacy, but I do believe that if we help her first, she could, in turn, search for such a healer in her home city of Absalom, or some place in between, and make arrangements for a house call if we provide to cover the costs incurred. Does that sound like a reasonable course, my friend?
He frowns...looking even a bit sad. I understand your frustration, Beppo. More severe injuries and curses require strong power to cure. The sad news is that when Aroden fell, many of the priests of Aroden, Iemodae and other good deities were chased away or even killed in the uprising. Now, we are scattered, and our faith is not nearly as strong as our forefathers. I pray and hope that one day, I will have that kind of strength of will and character to perform the type of miracles they did. That would help to restore faith in our people, as well. As it is, only the devil worshipping clerics of Asmodeus perform those types of miracles, or so the rumor goes.
The party returns. Janiven is not there, but Arael and most of the Shades' other members are. You relate to them what has happened. Arael ask Tessai to lay out on one of the pews in the temple base, has What you did today was very brave, Arael says to Tessai as Fiosa cast a light spell over his head, and he inspects the wound with Kyle. I have to admit, I've never seen anything like this. I think somehow, coming through the portal while being attacked by demons did something to her back. It doesn't look right. See the wounds here and here, Kyle? It's almost as if a part of her backbone is missing. And you already cast a cure spell, and these gnashes won't go away. It doesn't surprise me. I sense various types of magical residue here and here. It's not good. He stands up as Tessai manages to prop herself up in the pew to a seated position. I've heard of a spell that can replace lost limbs, resort lost organs and the sort. That might work, but obtaining it in these parts outside of a church as Asmodeus will not be easy. And, even then, I cannot say for sure that it will work.
Arael sees the puzzled look in both your faces and replies, Trust in Ioemodae to give us the answer we seek. Attend to other matters in the mean time, my friends.
With that being said, Arael interjects, these dangers should not be taken lightly. Remember, Chelaxian Pathfinders attempted to reclaim the lodge, and their lives were lost. You are much to valuable to the people of Westcrown to throw your lives away foolishly. Consider carefully what items to take with you. Take time to prepare properly. Insure your fully rested, and let us know if there's anything we can do to help. If you have some loose ends to tie up, do so. And when you are ready to go, come back and let me know. I will petition Ioemadae for blessings to protect you.
Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to visit them personally. Janiven has, but she feels that they're somewhat restless and aloof. I think the death of Black Devil did not help in that regard. As far as I know, Kyle has been the only other one that seems to be able to reach them a bit. I have to say, things have been going well. Almost too well. I am concerned about Hellknight activity. I heard rumbles that the Order of the Nail has imprisoned several citizens who were caught speaking kindly and openly about some of our collective deeds. I have no doubt they'll be tortured for questioning. While I certainly pray for such souls who have to endure such torture, I certainly hope is no one who actually knows anything about us.
Kyle thinks about Arael's concerns and answers, "It would be nice if we could give them jobs to do to help us out. Perhaps they can do some initial searching on what happened to the pathfinders that left for Absalom or scouting of Delvehaven. If we have nothing for them to do; I can talk to my order about giving them something constructive to do. I believe that Damaia would welcome learning more about Shelyn. I'll try to spend more time with them in my free time, but they'll want to contribute somehow lest they get bored." Talk it over with Janiven. I will support your collective judgement and decision in the matter. May Iomodae and Sheyln watch over you.
Kyle wakes early in the morning, and joins Arael for morning meditation and prayers. After doing so, he speaks to Kyle I know that the team has been busy with finding the secrets of the Lodge, and hopefully, a way to stop the shadow beasts. For that, I am grateful. During your absence, I strive to lead the others in the ways of spiritual matters. And while I have been blessed by Iomedae to impart that strength and wisdom to others, there are certain matters with which I struggle with. I speak of the tieflings. I checked on them whilest your group and Janiven were busy attending to Beppo in the arena. To say they were distant would be an understatement. With Black Devil lost to us, I believe you're our best hope to connect with them and find out what the next step should be.
The matter is important, but not urgent. Take whatever time is needed to prepare yourselves properly. If you are taking at least one day, I would appreciate an hour of Kyle's time tomorrow in the morning.
They are a sick faith, Arael answers. The Sisterhood of Eiseth existed in the time before Aroden’s death as a convent of female monks who hoped to become erinyes after their deaths. By worshiping the first erinyes, Eiseth, and leading a life of fury, they hoped to train for this role in the afterlife, and frequently hired out as assassins. Their work was particularly valued by some for their convention of claiming the remains of their victims, cremating them, and securing the ashes below one of their convents in order to prevent the slain victim from being brought back to life or receiving the honor of a proper burial. In the time before Aroden’s death, the Sisterhood was forced to operate with a cover—most of their convents posed as mausoleums or funeral houses.
Arael's eyes open. I'm afraid the spirit is gone. The candle is spent.
It sounds like you have your questions ready. Tessai, would you like me to begin the ritual?
The party rests, and after breakfast and morning meditation, Arael approaches the party. I will make the proper preparation for the communion with the spirit. Please make sure you have a solid hold on what questions you will ask. Once the candle runs out, there will be no more opportunity. Do not be fooled by its size. It will not burn for long.
Looking at the grave candle, Arael adds, We might have enough here for four or five questions. Let me know if you want me to set it up.
Candles are used for a myriad of religious ceremonies. Please, hand them to me. He looks them over for a few minutes. These are referred to as "grave candles." Grave candles are magical candles that draw forth spirits from the mortal remains of long-dead creatures, allowing the living to speak to them for a short period of time while the candle’s wick burns. In order to function, a grave candle must be placed amid the physical remains of the body to be spoken to. These remains can be partial, or even just a handful of ash or grave dust, but nothing less than that. When it’s lit, the smoke rising from the candle grows thick, and a ghostly shape similar to the creature’s appearance in life manifests in the smoke. At this point, the manifested spirit, referred to as an 'echo', can
The ladies assure me that it isn't trapped. I've searched it over with divine magic and found the same. It should be safe to open. Janiven, if you would.
Even Arael seems to choke on his next words. To be honest, its not something I've had the displeasure of considering in the past. If the Sheyln cleric stops administering to him, his body will expire on its own in a day...maybe two...without his spirit. Magical or physical means could shorten that significantly. Janiven begins sobbing, runs to a private room, slamming the door.
It is my love for humanity that drives me to suggest this course, Janiven. He looks to the group. What do you have to say?
In a manner of speaking, he is already lost to us, sadly. To continue to sustain his life through divine means only means that his spirit remains in the tortuous grip of an evil entity even longer. I know this is hard, but we must consider showing mercy through death.
Janiven and the others return back. Janiven leans over and whispers to Arael. He folds his hands at the table and looks at each member in question. You have made a very difficult decision...perhaps the most difficult question you have made in your life. The group has decided to not attempt a rescue. He lets that sit for a moment before he continues. However, the next question may be even more difficult. His body is still alive thanks in part to Kyle's friend and mentor. However, if his spirit is being held by a devil, outside of a contract, there would be mercy in ... terminating the life of the body as quickly as possible. That would force the devil to let the spirit go onto Pharasma lest he chance invoking her wrath directly. As his closest friends, you must make the decision and inform the healer as to what you think is best.
Arael puts his fingers together against his chin, looking very deliberate in this though. Tessai, your passion and loyalty to your friends are admirable. In thinking over both sides of the matter, please understand, I do not believe anyone here is expressing a concern over delaying our efforts in Westcrowne. Indeed, I believe it may take us some time just to figure out what this item is you have retrieved and how it will help us. Rather, the concern is for your safety and well-being...and, more importantly, what it means to Westcrowne if that becomes jeopardize in the attempt to save one. Devils are not to be trifled with, even by one who is strong in faith. Our more recent history is filled with the stories of those who crossed their path only to come out much worse for the experience. And while I convinced none of you would never hesitate to put your own life on the line for a friend, the high degree of danger coupled with your importance to our efforts here must force you to ask the hard question, do you risk the future of our people for a small chance to save his life? And I do believe Brandon makes a very good point... what would he say, if he were here to offer his opinion on the matter?
Arael sighs. It is a very difficult decision to make. What you propose is extremely risky. I know that most of you would never hesitate to put your lives on the line for a friend. However, that cannot be the only thing you consider here. As one of you said, if you are caught, or perish in the attempt, all of Westcrown may suffer. Even now, we may be on the cusp of ridding the entire town of the threat of Shadowbeasts. Weight the needs of the many against the needs of a friend is never easy. Iomedae's teaching leans towards the many, but many other good deities sway in other directions. Each must weight the costs, and if you do put it to a vote, vote by the dictates of your conscious or teachings of your god.
There's little doubt that when you approach the church, you are going into the belly of the beast, so to speak. The good news is that your identities as the now infamous group known as the Shades of Grey have been secret. As long as you maintain that, and do not give them any cause to believe that you do lack respect for Asmodeus, you shouldn't raise suspicions. You certainly wouldn't be the first group that approached the church about an encounter with a devil gone bad. You do, of course, want to avoid mentioning the Knot and the such. Devils are powerful creatures. The one you face could very easily be more powerful than anything you've seen before, even in the Knot.
We can talk further about your time in the Knot and the item you found once you have resolved this. I will be praying for the gods to watch you carefully not matter what you choose.
Arael nods. It's a bit hard to explain, but devils follow a set of rules in pursuing their evil desires. In death, Pharasma only grants them those souls who are sealed and bound by a contract. Presuming that Devil did not enter into such an agreement with one of those dark forces, they would be forced to release him to Pharasma's judgement should the body expire. It isn't the only way to save him. As I mentioned, the other would involved tracking down and confronting that which currently holds his soul. I cannot even begin to guess as to why any of those fiends would be holding his spirit in check. However, it would mean involving the church of Asmodeus. They are the experts in making deals with devils.
Arael takes a seat. You notice that none of the other Shades are here... just you, Janivan, Aiyln and Arael. In the middle of the tables lies the Crux that you fought so hard for. Arael begins, Welcome back home, Shades. I must praise you on the success of your efforts, though it clearly did not come without a cost. Before I speak on that, I want to thank each and every one of you. The city does not yet know what you have done for it, but you have certainly pushed the cause forward by a huge step. Unfortunately, there is a serious matter of which we must discuss. Tessai received disturbing direction from the priestess of Sheyln, and I'm afraid my news isn't any more comforting. Thinking carefully upon your recount of the situation that lead to Black Devil's demise, as well as what the priestess indicated, I believe there may be a strong possibility that his spirit may be imprisoned or held by a powerful devil itself. This devil still be in the Knot, or it may have traveled to another plane. Unfortunately, getting the answers to questions such as "which devil?" and "Where?" is beyond my capabilities. However.... and I am hesitant to point this out... there is one group who is all too familiar with the working of devils. The Church of Asmodeus. As he searches your faces for reactions, he continues. I cannot stress the gravity of the situation. Going to the church for any help, especially along these lines, is recipe for trouble or disaster. The church is not only capable of binding your physical body through the power of the law and government, but of darker bindings...those of the spirit. He pauses for a minute, and speaks at half volume. There is another option, though I doubt you will find it no more palatable. I do have the power to free Devil's spirit by the power of Iomedae...but only if Devil did not give himself willingly to the Devil in a pact. Furthermore, there is a cost. We would have to sacrifice his body completely. A silence falls over the room giving each person a chance to fully consider the weight of the options given.
True, but they will be breaking the letter of their own law if they arrest you for trespassing in a location they invited you. But, you're right, if an inquisitor or judge wants to find you guilty of something, he will do so. And Cheliax's laws are plentiful enough that it's not hard to find a legal way to do just that. My advice to each of you is, while you are around officials, try not to earn their ire. However, with that being said, I do have a respect for law and order. And, more importantly, in Westcrown, operating within the letter of the law keeps a number of Hellknight organizations off of our back. While Orders like the Order of the Rack will arrest you for suspicious chatter, most of the orders are dedicated to maintaining law and order. If the Shades of Grey start breaking the letter of the law in masse, we will have more problems than an upset mayor... we could have entire Hellknight orders knocking at our door.
Demiplanes are usually small, extra dimensional locations. Think of them as a pocket in another plane of existence. When you are on a demiplane, they tend to look and feel the same as Golarion, though some may have different temperatures, gravity, or even laws of reality. However, it is quite rare for a demiplane to vary much from the plane its created on. Traditionally, powerful wizards create demiplanes as private residences, or to store their artifacts safely.
I'm not exactly sure what you mean, Black Devil. But, Cheliax is a land of law. The house of Thrune is quick to use its power and apply it in a way to exploit the people. I, for one, enjoy finding ways to use it, instead, to provide freedom, mercy and hope for our people.
And, Arael adds, Janvien's plan it breaks the least laws. A good lawyer might even convince a judge it breaks none. If you're guests of the mayor, you are not technically breaking and enterting. Once you're invited into a house, there's no law saying that you cannot look around. Given that the puzzle lies in what appears to be a demi-planear location, the Asmodean knot, Cheliax law doesn't really cover what happens to be taken from there. He smiles at that thought. As far as the lodge, the records on file have clearly been changed. The house of Thrune never properly acquired the lodge, but seized it by force. While you would have a much harder time proving it in court given that any judge is controlled by the house, the building and its contents are still technically under ownership of the Pathfinder Society, not the government. And unofficial or no, we have a legitimate member of the society assisting us in enterting the premesis.
Arael says, Janiven has come up with a bold, unorthodox, and brilliant plan. We need you to ecome actors!
Yes...Janvien, but, while the urge to simply walk over to Delvehaven and start poking around and exploring might be tempting, such a plan is foolhardy. Not only are the wards and guardians left by Thrune likely potent and deadly, but without doing the proper research on those protections, it’s very likely that a blind exploration of the site would trigger one of many alarms that would alert the government, resulting in a swift reprisal that neither of us would appreciate. However, to their credit, Janiven and Ailyn have put their heads together to come up with a better plan. Ailyn?
Arael interjects. Unfortunately, one cannot just simply walk into Delvehaven. While the House of Thrune no longer actively guards the site, they transferred that responsibility to Westcrown’s mayoral office. Worse, the fact that the House of Thrune has been engaged in an act of rewriting history, either by destroying existing documents or changing them to suit Thrune’s preferences, means that reliable information about Delvehaven has become incredibly scarce. Ailyn knows that there are several powerful magical locks and wards on the lodge placed there by the House of Thrune to prevent entry, and her research has shown her that keys to the locks and documentation relating to those wards exists in only one place—Aberian’s Folly. Further,he continues, the House of Thrune’s devotion to order and tradition all but ensures that these keys and documents are kept in a complex, twelve-sided puzzle-box container known as a Chelish Crux, and that if it has been secured anywhere in Aberian’s Folly, it is likely to lie within the manor’s vault—a place known as the Asmodean Knot.
Arael walks out of one of the private rooms, with a beautiful woman dressed in armor, next to him. They are talking about something as they approach (Her pic is in dropbox). He immediately stops, and greets the party. Arael introduces this woman Ailyn Ghontasavos, a member of
DC 10 Knowledge (local): You recall that the Pathfinders are
not that welcome these days in Westcrown, and that the presence of one here, even under cover, indicates something big is building.
He nods at each of you after your assessments of the others. Fair enough. We must move forward. For what it's worth, I detected no evil from any of them. That does not insure us against evil acts in the future, but it reinforces what you have said. I will sit with each of them, and offer them the opportunity to join our cause. If they refuse, they are free to go. It is always possible that they may report to the Inquisitors or the Hellknights what they know, but thanks to your prudence, it is precious little. If they wish to join us, we will bring them to the temple, blindfolded for now. I will have Janiven spend time with them directly. She has always been a good judge of character, and has excelled in motivating others to support our cause. Arael leaves, and talks with each of the three, privately. He returns to the two of you when done. While I am not the judge of character that Janiven is, I do recognize zeal when I see it. You are right, the young lady seems to be quite eager to learn more about the deities opposed to Asmodeus. She spoke very favorably of Kyle, and expressed desire to join immediately upon my mention that she could continue to further her understanding with him. Good job, priest. The sorcerer... he studied me carefully. Almost as if he was looking for something in my eyes. He was to the point in my questions of him. When I asked if he had questions of me, he simply replied that he knew everything of me he needed to know already. Interesting. I offered him freedom, or the choice to join our efforts. He did not hesitate in his answer. The third... well, he asked me several times if I am, 'the boss.' I assured him that each member of the Shades are masters of their own destiny. The more I tried the explain my role, the more confused he became. I simplified and explained to him that we work together to help people of all races in Cheliax to become free of fear. He responded well to that. I think when we get to the base, I will explain to him that Janiven is the 'boss.' He smiles at the thought. He gets up. Please arrange for them to come to the temple, blindfolded as I mentioned before. Then, tonight, I ask you to join Janiven and I for a private dinner at the temple. We have someone we want you to meet.
Arael enters unannounced, though Black Devil did hear the approach and appropriate knock sign upon entrance. After a few greeting, he asks to see the tieflings. He talks with each of them for a few minutes, and then asks to speak with Kyle and Black Devil alone. After they are pulled aside, he asks. I apologize for not coming earlier to visit. I've been working on something very important, and it involves all of you. He pauses for a moment. His jaw squares up. Black Devil, thank you for doing what needed to be done to maintain the secrecy and protection of the other members. I'm sure it was not easy. He eases up a little. We are about ready to move forward, but before I can arrange a meeting, I needed to find out how the other tieflings are doing. I'm afraid that this next mission may take up significant portions of your time. So, I need to know where we stand with them. What are your opinions? Have the abandoned their ways? More importantly, do you trust them?
As Brandon walks into he sees Arael finishing a prayer. Arael. I just wanted to apologise for when we came back with the Tieflings. Springing them on you like that and now this has happened. Not all of them are evil. Or if they are I think they can change. I have to believe that. Anyway. I'll leave you to it. Arael interjects before Brandon can leave.
I have little doubt that some of them are truly repentant. Iomodae does teach us that she forgives those who work hard to atone for the sins of the past. However, she also teaches consequences for actions. He pauses, affixing his eyes on Brandon. Those tieflings either committed murder, or were accomplices. There are laws on the books that dictated punishments for those offenses. Furthermore, I don't know any one us who would argue that those offenses are morally wrong as well. Society made those laws, and society put the leaders we have in power. Yet, through our actions, we have absolved them of those wrongs. We have circumvented the processes put into place. We have put ourselves above those rulers. And, as a direct result, an innocent priest was almost killed. We are directly responsible if any of them commit further atrocities. I believe some of them may change. I just don't think we have the authority to absolve them of their debt to society. Do you?
Later that night, another dinner is held. While lights and noise were kept low to avoid any suspicion, the energy in the air was undeniable. Arael opens with a speech about the vision to inspire courage in the people of Westcrown. He moves on to explain how the seven of you have been absolutely instrumental in moving towards that end. He then sits, allowing Janiven to give a blow by blow on how you all won the day. She is careful to keep the report positive, and the impact on morale is clear. One of the others reports that he's already heard that the watch received an 'anonymous' tip about the Bastards being defeated, and they've already begun an investigation of the area. They've found plenty of bodies, the tokens of the Bastards, certifying that it was them, and statues of grey. Everyone raises a toast to the party.
Nicely said. He sighs. I'm still not completely on board with this idea, but you hardly need my permission to do what you feel is right, especially when we work towards the same goal, albeit through different means. I will leave their spiritual training there in your hands, while I continue to tend to our people over here. If you need anything from myself or Janiven to support you in this endeavor, please ask. I understand Black Devil will accompany you to see to their martial training as well. He looks at you in the eye. Be careful, Kyle. If they decide to turn on you, you could find yourself in a lot of trouble. While your entire group, including Black Devil, has my complete trust, he may be blind to such problems before its too late. May Sheyln give you eyes to see so that dark eyes do not attack you by surprise. He looks at Janiven. I know you all have worked hard, and are tired, but it would be unwise to leave our friends waiting in the sewers on guard duty for much longer. Have Black Devil take them to where they will be staying and receiving their training. Take whatever supplies they may need. The store rooms are looking a little empty right now, but I'm expecting more tomorrow. He pats both of you on the shoulder as he leads you to the door. And let's plan for a dinner tonight, to celebrate what your group had done today for the people of Westcrown!
Kyle, like myself, you are a spiritual man. But, I think you also understand the burden of having to lead others and make tough decisions. These tieflings are part of the Bastards of Erebus... a group responsible for terrorizing the people of our city. There are even a number of murders involved. I've been informed that in at least one instance, and entire family was killed in cold blood. The four you currently have in custody were part of such a group. Janivan believes that these four are... truly repentant... for their involvement. She feels that with enough spiritual guidance, that these tieflings would not only turn from their wicked waves, but may even be able to contribute to the good of the community in the very same vein of our own efforts. As you know, I trust Janiven's intuition with not only my life, but more importantly, the safety of all the Shades of Grey. I feel that in this case, however, we are making a mistake. She has assured me, however, that you all have a plan which involves minimal risk to the others. This plan, from what I have been told, involves you acting as their spiritual teacher and beacon. He looks you in the eye. Kyle, do you honestly believe that you can change this group of tieflings, who are not only born of demonic heritage, but have demonstrated inclinations of chaos, evil and violence? Are you willing to die if you're wrong? Before you can answer, he adds, Do not misunderstand. You are a man of faith, and have demonstrated an absolute willingness to dedicate yourself to your beliefs, even if your life is part of the cost, but think about what I said earlier. Answer my question not only as a holy man, but as a leader. If you die, it is not the cost to you that I want you to consider, but to those others, here in the Shades, who depend on you as well.
Arael come out of his room an hour later, and calls for Janiven. After 15 minutes, the door opens again. Janiven asks for Kyle to join them. As Kyle enters the room, Janiven closes the door. Arael sits at a table, looking as serious as he every does. This conversation we are about to have stays in this room. Understood?
Arael faces the back wall for moment, where a sword hangs. Behind it, a light shine brilliantly. He says to the group, Please, excuse me. I need some time alone.
Arael gets out of his chair, his face flush with anger, and gets very close to Janiven. Iomedae forgives those who cast aside their evil ways and pledge themselves to fighting those forces of darkness. Once a tiefling has embraced the darkside of his heritage, there's no turning back. Suddenly aware of those behind Janiven and the stares at him, his nostrils flare as he takes a deep breath. No offense intended.
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