Reconsidering the tower given the situation, Li'an instead opts to teleport into the shelter with the others.
Outside, the tornado rampages past them, its immense funnel cloud a terrifying spectacle. Ehren's magic curbs the winds within its range, but the storm's fury still hurls debris at deadly speeds. Myrna and Hinagiku, not yet safe in the shelter, endure the barrage as Caerwen's remnants crumble around them. The northern tower collapses in the face of the tornado's relentless power.
Round 6!
The Heroes Are Up!
Header
Percept +22 low-light vision, blindsight 45', detect evil creatures within 190' emanation | Init +9 | AC 30, Touch 27, FF 23 +4 dodge when moving | DR5/- | CMD 36 | Fort + 16 Ref +17 Will +19, +2 vs death effects, +4 insight vs starv., thirst, some diseases and some poisons | Evasion (for all saves)
AC breakdown: 4 dex, 5 wis, 2 sage, 2 enhanc, 2 deflection, 3 dodge, 1 insight, 1 nat ac enhanc
Others: | Treat exposure to hot and cold as 2 steps milder (or 1 when sleeping or unconscious),
____.|.AoO__DgPool_LoH_Medit__Ki__MP
Left..|..010........18........6........0........03....01
Max.|..07........30........6........4........17....11
123/143 hp
Martial focus: 1/1
Resources spent
Rolls
Contingency:
Actions
Swift: renew enhancer (str instead of dex)
Move: try to move against wind
Move (enhanced patrol):
Free:
Standard: move
Full round action:
_______________________________
As Hinagiku slows down to keep up with Myrna picking up crusaders, the monk quickly glances and, just in time, sees a large branch being blown around the tower and heading down their way.
”Watch out.” she calls, unable to come to the commander’s help. She herself jumps over the branch as it crashes at her feet, but losing her footing she is pushes against the walls of the stony refuge and unable to push through the raging winds.
Unafe looks at the crusaders gathered inside. "Kai here is close to death. It will be too late for her soon, if it's not already. Can one of you tend to her wounds?"
As she catches her breath she looks at the structure she called on the Crystaline Queen to make, wondering how it will do with this abyssal tornado, and if there is more that should be done to keep it sturdy.
From within the relative safety of the bunker, Ehren listens to the storm's rampage. He glances around at the walls and ceiling of the earthen structure, only now wondering if they can withstand the might of the impending tornado. Catching Unafe's eye as she inspects the fortification herself, the druid asks, "What do you think? Can it weather the storm?"
Now within the area of the Archdruid's wind-control spell, Myrna only has to weather the assault of rocks and debris. Calling on the last reserves of her strength, Myrna briefly takes on the aspect of stone as the debris strikes her. She throws her body in the way of the debris to shield her unconscious comrades, absorbing the boulders as they strike her.
Huffing and puffing, she rushes under cover of the shelter created by the Archdruid. Joining her compatriots, she looks around wildly. "This is crazy!" she shouts. "Can we survive this?"
Beatrix rushes into the bell tower, enduring the blast of chaotic energy with remarkable grace. The door slams shut behind her, gusted by the wind. She finds herself alone inside the bell tower, so she runs up to the second floor and watches the storm evolve. With rubble flying around and the bebiliths defeated quickly, she thanks herself for foresight and toughness. She wishes she could be with her captain, healing and helping, but she is grateful for her own safety.
Unafe concludes that while the structure is remarkably sturdy, some reinforcement could be beneficial, especially against the high-velocity debris. She contemplates the strategic placement of additional supports or the creation of windbreaks using nearby rubble to further shield the shelter. Her expertise assures her that, with these enhancements, the refuge stands a much better chance of enduring the relentless assault of the tornado.
All five heroes make it into the shelter from the storm, away from the hailing debris. In the midst of the raging storm, the Iomedean paladins' faith shines as a beacon of hope. One of them fervently prays, channeling the divine energy of their goddess. The positive energy pulses through the air, reviving Wailana and Roselani, though Kai remains unresponsive.
Within the confines of the shelter, the heroes are surrounded by a cacophony of Abyssal fury. The howling of the tornado dominates the soundscape, punctuated by the frequent, violent impacts of debris battering against Unafe's hastily erected refuge. Each thud and crash is a stark reminder of the chaos raging just beyond their earthen walls.
Round 7!
The Heroes Are Up!
Myrna waits, looking at the ceiling, listening to the rocks crash, hoping that the ceiling doesn't cave in.
Header
Percept +22 low-light vision, blindsight 45', detect evil creatures within 190' emanation | Init +12 | AC 33, Touch 30, FF 23 +4 dodge when moving | DR5/- | CMD 36 | Fort + 16 Ref +20 Will +19, +2 vs death effects, +4 insight vs starv., thirst, some diseases and some poisons | Evasion (for all saves)
AC breakdown: 7 dex, 5 wis, 2 sage, 2 enhanc, 2 deflection, 3 dodge, 1 insight, 1 nat ac enhanc
Others: | Treat exposure to hot and cold as 2 steps milder (or 1 when sleeping or unconscious),
____.|.AoO__DgPool_LoH_Medit__Ki__MP
Left..|..010........18........6........0........03....01
Max.|..010........30........6........4........17....11
123/143 hp
Martial focus: 1/1
Resources spent
Rolls
Contingency:
Actions
Swift: switching enhancer back to dex.
Move:
Move (enhanced patrol):
Free:
Standard: move
Full round action:
_______________________________
Hinagiku allows herself to draw a long breath when she enters the stony refuge. Making her way through the people gathered there, she approaches the area where the wounded are gathered. Without a word, she sits in their midst, closing her eyes and focusing on the ley. She could feel the corruption from the bebilith clinging on to some of the crusaders. But, with enough focus, she could weave the ley in a way that would weaken the rot and give a fighting chance to the others.
Ehren smiles briefly when Hinagiku reaches the safety of the bunker, but quickly redirects his focus to ensuring their shelter is structurally sound.
Unafe looks up at the ceiling, glad that the ancestors had guided her to make it so thick.
"Ehren, I think the structure might be alright already, but it could be improved with a few more pillars to reinforce the ceiling. Maybe here, here, and here.
"And is everyone in, who we expect to come in? If so, I think we can use some of that rubble from the old wall to make a wind break, just in from the entrance. Is there one or two of you who would be able to help me?"
Unafe moves to build a wind break, after showing Ehren the places that could benefit from more support.
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Slowly, the ground around the designated spots begins to tremble, and solid stone walls start to rise from the earth. These walls grow steadily, their surfaces perfectly matching the existing structure. Ehren guides the formation of the walls, ensuring they are strategically placed to provide maximum support to the shelter's ceiling. As the spell concludes, Ehren takes a moment to inspect his work, to make sure that the walls are properly aligned and stable. Ehren then joins Unafe in her efforts to build a wind break, significantly bolstering the shelter's ability to withstand the ongoing storm.
As the storm continues to rage outside, the Crusaders within the shelter engage in various activities to keep their minds occupied and spirits up. Wailana, having regained consciousness, joins Roselani in a quiet conversation, their voices a soft murmur in the shelter.
"Think it'll hold, Rosie?" Wailana asks, her eyes betraying her concern.
Roselani, with a reassuring smile, replies, "If Unafe and the Archdruid are on it, I trust we'll be fine. They know their stuff."
A few of the Crusaders, led by a paladin named Ser Gareth, organize a small prayer circle, invoking the blessings of Iomedae for protection and strength. Their unified voices rise in a gentle chant.
"May the light of Iomedae guide us through this tempest," Sir Gareth intones, his voice steady and full of faith.
As the storm's intensity gradually diminishes outside, a somber mood descends upon the Crusaders gathered within the shelter. The reality of their loss settles in, casting a shadow over the relief of surviving the tornado.
Ser Gareth, his prayer concluded, stands and addresses the group with a heavy heart. "We have weathered this storm, but not without cost," he begins. "We must take a moment to honor our fallen comrades—Den, Kai, and Yannick. Brave souls who gave their all in service of the Crusade."
A hushed silence falls over the group as each person reflects on the sacrifice of their fellow Crusaders. Afanen bows her head in respect. "They were more than just fighters; they were friends, allies... family," she murmurs.
Gareth nods solemnly, adding, "Their courage in the face of darkness will not be forgotten. May their spirits find peace."
Header
Percept +22 low-light vision, blindsight 45', detect evil creatures within 190' emanation | Init +9 | AC 30, Touch 27, FF 23 +4 dodge when moving | DR1/- | CMD 33 | Fort + 16 Ref +17 Will +19, +2 vs death effects, +4 insight vs starv., thirst, some diseases and some poisons | Evasion (for all saves)
AC breakdown: 4 dex, 5 wis, 2 sage, 2 enhanc, 2 deflection, 3 dodge, 1 insight, 1 nat ac enhanc
Others: | Treat exposure to hot and cold as 2 steps milder (or 1 when sleeping or unconscious),
____.|.AoO__DgPool_LoH_Medit__Ki__MP
Left..|..010........18........6........0........03....01
Max.|..07........18........6........4........17....11
123/143 hp
Martial focus: 1/1
Resources spent
Rolls
Contingency:
Actions
Swift:
Move:
Move (enhanced patrol):
Free:
Standard: move
Full round action:
_______________________________
Weakening the corruption left by the bebilith had been Hinagiku’s priority, but with their spiritual stench gone, she could now focus on Unafe whose wounds had not gone unnoticed to her. Approaching her as everyone huddled listening to the whistles and muffled screams of the wind, Hinagiku kneels next to her companion and gently lay a hand on the worst of the wound. And, through her supernatural senses, she slowly begins to mend the skin, muscles and veins.
”I cannot do more, but it should be enough for the night.” Hinagiku whispers as she makes eye contact with Unafe.
As the crusaders begin to mourn the fallen, Hinagiku retires to a nearby corner and, leaning her back against the stone, readies herself to sleep.
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When her comrades begin to speak out on the sacrifices of the dead, Myrna solemnly joins in on the conversation.
"Den, Yannick, Kai. Friends, allies, family, fighters, they did not give their lives in service. The Abyss took their lives, just like it has taken so many thousands of others. We're all here, willingly, of course, but our goal isn't to die."
"Every day, we fight the demons and their servants in an effort to end this nightmare. Some of us don't make it. We lost three good soldiers today. Let's fight to make sure we don't lose any more."
Her piece said, she sits down against the ruined wall of what used to be a building in Caerwen. She didn't know what would happen next. She was hurt, though, and tired. Near her limit, for sure. She looks to the Archdruid and his companions. "Do you think the storm is over?" she asks. "Should someone go out there and take a look?"
Unafe, still recovering from her own wounds but driven by a sense of duty, responds, "I'll go. It's important we know what we're facing." Despite the evident pain, she pushes herself to her feet and heads out into the remnants of the storm.
After a tense absence, Unafe returns, her expression relieved. "The tornado has passed, but the winds are still strong, and lightning scars the sky. It's not safe yet, but the worst seems over." She leans against a wall, catching her breath.
"That is good news. We should stay put for now. The night isn't going to be easy, but we've survived the worst of it," says Li'an.
Confident that his fortifications would hold, Ehren joined the others in quietly paying his respects to the fallen Crusaders. It was tragic for them to have lost their lives to random violence so soon after their moment of triumph, but such was the nature of the Worldwound.
Ehren watches the other soldiers in the shelter pensively, only able to hope that they can return to Drezen without further casualties. The Hellfire Squadron had proven invaluable in the battle against Jaruunicka’s forces, but bringing them to Caerwen had wrought its own share of complications, not the least of which was getting them there in the first place. How many lives would they have to put on the line to claim victory, from here on out? The battles ahead would only be deadlier, the stakes higher. The druid shakes his head, directing his thoughts to the more immediate future.
“Once we have rested and gathered our strength, we should reach out to Auraelia,” he suggests, only able to hope that the lyrakien survived her self-assigned rescue mission. The chances of her survival seemed slim, the chances of Gaiwan’s slimmer still, but it would cost little to contact Li’an’s azata friend. “With Pulura’s blessing, she might yet live. In which case, we should arrange a rendezvous as soon as possible.”
"I also feels this way. And, once we also communicate with Mrs. Arueshalae, we can decide what to do next, but getting everyone here to safety is probably the wisest, it is really deadly this deep in the wound."
Unafe, still recovering from her recent excursion into the storm, listens to Ehren's suggestion. Her expression softens slightly at the mention of Auraelia. "Yes, reaching out to Auraelia is a wise plan," she agrees. "Once we've had a chance to rest and regain our strength, I can attempt to contact her through the Dreamlands. It could fail, but it's our best shot at finding her—and possibly Gaiwan."
Li'an, who has been quietly tending to the needs of the wounded Crusaders, joins the conversation. "Auraelia's resourcefulness should not be underestimated. If anyone could survive such a mission, it's her. Ehren, I agree with your plan. Let's focus on recuperation now, and then we can make our next move."
"Alright," Unafe nods, "I know we could all use some rest." Looking at Li'an and Hinagiku, she adds, "Even if you don't need to sleep.
"I will begin my sleep by reaching out for Auraelia. If she joins me, you are welcome to take my hand and join me as well. Otherwise, perhaps this abyss-tainted land will give us a bit of respite, and we can truly recover and marshal our resources for tomorrow."
Unafe sits against the wall, her eyes half closed. As she does, Sicrwydd crawls out of the satchel he rides in, curls up on Unafe's lap, and begins to coo softly.
Unafe reaches out first to Peace-Amidst-Pain, trying to guide him back to her. Then she reaches out to invite Aurealia into her dream.
Myrna, too, is exhausted. This whole episode had tested her to her limits, and she had used all her reserves. She felt herself on the verge of a breakthrough... but she knew all she needed was a bit of sleep.
Despite the danger of passing out in a foreign land, the best chance they had was if they could just stay here long enough to recover the ability to get moving again. They would need speed and efficiency to make it back to Drezen. They needed their spells and their full energy to tackle that.
With a deep breath, Unafe enters the Dreamlands. Her consciousness, a beacon in the murky waters of sleep, reaches out first to Peace-Amidst-Pain using the Moaning Diamond, seeking to draw the spirit back to her side.
As she feels the reassuring life force of Peace-Amidst-Pain, somewhere out there in the multiverse, Unafe extends her mental grasp further, reaching out for Auraelia. In the Dreamlands, her invitation is like a soft, luminous thread, stretching out across the boundaries of reality and dream.
Auraelia, far away, senses the subtle intrusion. Out of desperation, she allows the connection to form, and so she falls asleep and enters the world of Dreams. The landscape around them is surreal, a reflection of Unafe's thoughts and emotions. In this dream realm, Unafe and Auraelia find themselves in a serene clearing, a stark contrast to the chaotic environment of the Worldwound where their physical bodies lay. The air here is calm, the sky a tapestry of twilight hues and twinkling stars.
Unafe gasps and says (aloud, as well as in the Dreamlands) "Thank the Ancestors you're alive!"
Unafe motions for Li'an to take her hand so that she can join as well. As Li'an's dreamform materializes with them, Unafe says (within their shared dream), "There is much to update you on but first, are you in danger where you are?"
Turning to Li'an in the physical world, Unafe extends her hand, inviting her into the dream.
As Li'an grasps it, her form begins to coalesce in the Dreamlands, materializing beside them.
Auraelia responds to Unafe with a calm that belies the gravity of their situation. "I am safe for now," she assures them. "I've managed to elude immediate threats, and Gaiwan is with me. But in the Worldwound, safety is always fleeting. What's happened on your end?"
When Auraelia lets them know she's safe–at least for the moment–the dreamscape itself glows with relief, with a stunning green-and-pink aurora appearing in the dreamlike twilight sky.
Or was it always there, and just now noticed?
"I am glad to hear it, Auraelia. We feared for both you and Gawain. Sadly, several of the crusaders who came with Myrna gave their lives in the battle, but their sacrifice helped us to defeat the hag, Jaruunicka, and her demonic allies. Valeria is still weak from the curse, but Myrna believes she might be able to undo it after a night's rest.
"...And because this accursed Worldwound never relents, we're now sheltered to protect ourselves from some Abyssal tornado, but I believe the structure we made (with Sairazul's aid) should hold."
Li'an grabs the Lyrakien and gives her a hug, happy to see that she'd managed to make it through to safety, even if temporarily. "I knew you'd do it Arie!" she says, smiling.
"Of course I made it!" Arie says, nodding in agreement. "I'll wait until we get back to Drezen to share the stories. In the meantime, the biggest danger for Gaiwan is lack of water and food. He is doing his best to hold up, but he is in bad shape and I have nothing to give him. The sooner we can meet up with you all the better, but I don't think we can risk traveling again. I did my best to guide us towards Caerwen, but we are in Nabasu territory now. It would be one thing if I were traveling alone, but I cannot carry him and avoid Nabasus."
"I am sorry to hear some of Myrna's group fell attempting to bring down Jaruunicka. Is Braith alright? It is good you succeeded in defeating the hag... An abyssal tornado hit? I hope we don't end up with one of those here! I just barely managed to hide the entry to my sanctuary in a dead tree and hide it with brambles and other deadwood. Something like that would leave us exposed," the Lyrakien says, looking more concerned.
Unafe nods, absorbing the information. "Your resourcefulness is a blessing, Arie. As for Braith, she's alive and still fighting strong. The threat of an Abyssal tornado here has been difficult to endure, and I hope that your location sees better weather. Your caution in concealing your sanctuary is wise. We'll make plans to rendezvous as soon as possible. For now, rest and conserve your strength. We'll work together to find a way to reach you and Gaiwan safely."
Auraelia, listening intently to Unafe's words, responds with a nod. "Thank you, Unafe. We'll hold out here as best we can. The weather's been holding steady for now, but we're always on guard. I'll keep Gaiwan safe and hidden until you can reach us. Be cautious on your journey."
Li'an adds, "We'll make it through, Arie. Just keep yourselves safe. We'll come for you as soon as we can." With these parting words, the dream begins to fade, the surreal landscape dissolving as Auraelia and Li'an slowly awaken from their shared experience.
The heroes spend the rest of the night resting, their minds and bodies recovering from the relentless strain of the Abyssal storm. As dawn breaks, the storm finally abates, leaving behind an eerie calm.
Beatrix, waking up in the bell tower, wastes no time in rejoining Captain Myrna and the others. As she steps out into the morning light, she takes a moment to survey the aftermath of the storm before heading to the shelter.
The Hellfire Squadron begins their morning routine within the small shelter Unafe had created for them. They assess the damage outside, tend to their wounds, and prepare for the challenges ahead. Some Crusaders quietly pray or meditate, seeking inner strength and guidance, while others check and maintain their equipment, ensuring they are ready for whatever comes next.
Upon reaching Myrna, Beatrix salutes. "Captain, it will still be some time before I and the other Crusaders can pray to recover spells, as not enough time has yet passed. Do you want us to wait here until we can do so, or should we leave immediately?"
As Unafe steps outside, the earth elemental Peace-Amidst-Pain emerges from the ground, their form melding seamlessly from the earth. The elemental's presence is both imposing and calming.
"Unafe," Peace-Amidst-Pain's voice rumbles. "በታች የተነሳሱ ታንኮች በመንገዴ ሩቅ ሆኜ ተጓዝኩ። በጉዞዬ ላይ እጅግ ሰፊ፣ በምድር ጥልቀት ውስጥ የሚገኘው ጸጥታና ዕረፍት የሚሰጥ ማእዘን ላይ ተደርሼአለሁ። የምወደው የሰው ግልፅና ከምንገኝበት ግጭት ሩቅ ሆኖ ያለ ስፍራ ነበር። በዚያ ጸጥታን አግኝቼአለሁ።"
"I have journeyed far through the caved-in tunnels below. In my travels, I came upon a vast expanse, a serene sanctuary deep within the earth. It was a place of tranquility, far removed from the turmoil I see of the surface. I found solace there."
The elemental pauses, their form shifting slightly as if recalling the comfort of that hidden haven. "በርግጥ ያለ ምኞት እንደሆነ ከዚያ ስፍራ ስወጣ ነበር። አሁን በፊትህ ቆሜአለሁ፣ ለመገዛት ዝግጁ ነኝ። እኔን ምን ማድረግ ትፈልጋለህ? በሚመጡት ፈተናዎች ላይ ኃይሌ እንዴት ሊረዳህ ይችላል?"
"It was with reluctance that I left that place. Now, I stand before you, ready to serve. What is it you wish of me? How may my strength aid you in the trials ahead?"
In the relative safety of Auraelia's shelter, Gaiwan and the Lyrakien maintain a vigilant watch. The stillness around them is a small comfort in the treacherous terrain of the Worldwound. Auraelia, ever alert to the subtleties of the magical realm, suddenly senses an unfamiliar tickling sensation in her mind. Assuming it initially for Unafe reaching out again, she allows the presence access.
But instead of the familiar pull into the Dreamlands, Auraelia remains fully conscious. A few moments of uncertainty pass, and then, her keen senses detect something unusual. Looking up, she spots a scrying sensor hovering above her and Gaiwan. The sensor, a small, translucent orb, floats silently, its presence an unmistakable sign that someone, or something, is watching them.
"Good luck getting any useful information about where we are from the inside of a featureless extradimensional space," Auraelia says, looking up at the sensor, taunting whomever was on the other side of it.
Auraelia spends the rest of the evening praying to Pulura for a solution to the problems at hand. In them orning she receives a vision from her goddess, showing her how to call upon her divine powers to provide sustenance and further protection for those in her care.
With her newfound blessing from Pulura, Auraelia spends time trying to see if she can successfully create food and drink for Gaiwan, fighting against the curse of the worldwound.
Once everyone has gathered together, Li'an prepares herself to depart. Finding Auraelia would be difficult, but with some luck they would be able to figure out how to rendezvous with her and Gaiwan before long.
"Are we ready to go?" she asks to the others. "We were going to head for the Menhir in the Stonewilds, correct?"
Header
Percept +23 low-light vision, blindsight 50', detect evil creatures within 200' emanation | Init +9 | AC 31, Touch 28, FF 24 +4 dodge when moving | DR1/- | CMD 34 | Fort + 16 Ref +18 Will +20, +2 vs death effects, +4 insight vs starv., thirst, some diseases and some poisons | Evasion (for all saves)
AC breakdown: 4 dex, 6 wis, 2 sage, 2 enhanc, 2 deflection, 3 dodge, 1 insight, 1 nat ac enhanc
Others: | Treat exposure to hot and cold as 2 steps milder (or 1 when sleeping or unconscious),
____.|.AoO__DgPool_LoH_Medit__Ki__MP
Left..|..04........18........7........4........01....02
Max.|..04........18........7........4........19....11
154/154 hp
Martial focus: 1/1
Resources spent
Rolls
Contingency:
Actions
Swift:
Move:
Move (enhanced patrol):
Free:
Standard: move
Full round action:
_______________________________
Hinagiku’s two hours of sleep had been followed by a few hours of meditation which had almost fully renewed her mind and body. With most of the troop asleep, Hinagiku had then joined the sentry a the shelter’s entrance and kept guard with them.
As the camp stirred, Hinagiku regroups with the others to discuss their plan.
”If needed, I can be ready in an hour." she responds to Li'an. "Yesterday was a long day and my ki is back fully aligned with the ley yet. Without fully attuning, it becomes difficult for me to sense corruption from far, or to fully harmonize by combat to my surroundings. What about you, how are you all doing?”
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Myrna stands, stretches, yawns, and groggily pulls her armor back on. What time was it? It's impossible to tell inside the stone shelter that Unafe had provided. After coming out of the shelter to survey Caerwen's ruined landscape.
She reviews her troops as they gather and discuss the plan. She believed that she and the others could handle any itinerant threats that may come up, and she knew now that Caerwen offered relatively little real safety.
First, to her Lieutenant, she answers, "We should get ready to move immediately. Help me get the troops up and organized. We should conduct a quick search, followed by a burial if we can find the bodies of our compatriots."
Secondly to Li'an and Hinagiku, "I agree we should make for the menhir, in order to return to Drezen quickly. Do we know its approximate location and distance?"
"Before we leave, however, let me take the time to attempt healing Valaria."
With that said, she finds Valaria, still being cared for amongst her compatriots. She kneels beside the cursed tiefling and summons the wisdom of her teachers. Power flows from her homeland, through her, and out through her hands. "Begone!" she cries, as she channels her magic towards expelling the curse.
Despite Auraelia's best efforts, the results are disheartening. Each item of food and every drop of water she conjures appears initially wholesome and pure. However, within moments, the corrupting influence of the Worldwound asserts itself. The food spoils before their eyes, turning to rot and ash. The water becomes murky and tainted, undrinkable.
Auraelia's heart sinks as she witnesses the perversion of her divine gift. Gaiwan watches her efforts silently In this cursed land, the simplest necessities like food and water are a luxury beyond reach.
"Auraelia, don't lose hope. We're being watched, so let's not give them the satisfaction of seeing us defeated. We'll find a way through this together," he says, softly.
Ehren turns to Hinagiku and smiles. "I've regained some strength, and my connection to the ley remains strong despite the Worldwound's influence. We'll need every advantage we can get in the trials ahead."
Ehren checks his own gear, ensuring everything is in order. "Let's be thorough in our preparations. The Worldwound is unforgiving, and we can't afford to be caught off guard."
He then turns to Myrna, and nods. "My connection to the ley lines allows me to sense its presence. The menhir lies approximately 20 miles to the northeast of here, within the Stonewilds. With my guidance, we should be able to navigate there without significant difficulty."
His geode-like eyes survey the horizon as he considers the path they will take. "The journey will not be without its dangers, given the unpredictable nature of the Worldwound, but I am confident we can reach the menhir safely. Let's make haste while the calm persists."
Myrna then approaches where Valaria lies, the cursed tiefling looking fragile amidst her caring comrades. Kneeling beside her, Myrna channels the power taught to her by her witch grandmothers, her hands glowing with a radiant energy. The air shimmers with the magic's potency, enveloping Valaria in a warm, healing light.
Valaria's eyes flutter open, confused. "Where... am I? Who are you?" she murmurs, her voice barely a whisper, her strength sapped by the curse's lingering effects.
One of the Crusaders who had been looking after her presses a gentle hand on her shoulder. "Miss. You've been through a great ordeal. Your spirit and body have been deeply strained by the dark magic that held you. It's crucial that you rest now, to regain your strength and mend the deep-seated weariness that afflicts you. It would take several weeks and powerful magic to restore what your spirit has endured."
Valaria allows the Crusader to push her back down onto her cot. Her gaze eventually settles on Ehren, who is standing behind Myrna with a large smile. Recognition crosses her face, and she asks with a frail voice, "Ehren, where is Rue? Is she safe?"
Ehren's smile wanes, and he carefully chooses his next words, aware of the surrounding Crusaders. "Valaria, Rue is... she's managing. She's a survivor, you know that," he replies, skirting around the specifics. His eyes subtly flicker to the Crusaders around them, but he doesn't explicitly mention Arueshalae's location in the forest, understanding the delicate nature of her existence among the Crusaders.
"Ehren, I must see Rue. Take me to her." Valaria's eyes, though tired, burn with urgency.
"Going for the menhir as fast as possible seems like the wise choice, but we also need to reunite with Mrs. Auraelia and Mr. Gaiwan. We would also need to get in touch with Mrs. Arueshalae." Hinagiku mentions, before Myrna switches her attention to Valaria. Agreeing that this was the priority, Hinagiku refrains from suggesting any plans to reach out to the angel and the demon. The monk instead follows Ehren and Myrna to Valaria's bedside. A faint smile appears on her vulpine lips as the injunction from the witches' daughter repels the curse put on Valaria.
As Valaria's concern arises, perhaps threatening to unveil too much about Arueshalae, Hinagiku kneels by her old companion's side, waving away with gentle authority the surrounding crusaders.
"We are still in Caerwen, Mrs. Myrna." Hinagiku motions to the tiefling next to her "is a commander in the crusades and brought troops to help relieve the siege on the tower where you were." Hinagiku begins, slowly, making sure that emphasis is put on the important facts such that Valaria understands the implications of the situation. "We did come with Mrs. Unafe, she can contact Mrs. Rue in dreams, just like she did with you."
"Easy, now," Ehren urges gently, picking up on Valaria's desperation. "Jaruunicka is dead - she cannot harm either of you anymore. Rue will be safe for a little while longer, so let's see if we can get you back on your feet first, no?"
The archdruid fusses over his injured tiefling friend, inspecting the festering wound inflicted by the hag's accursed blade. Myrna's power was truly marvelous, to have unraveled such a powerful and persistent curse. But in its absence, much of the ruin it wrought on Valaria's body still remains.
The archdruid sifts through his healing supplies, finding among them the jar of restorative honey gifted to him by the Hivetenders of Andoletta. With any luck, it can repair at least some of the damage. At the rate they were going, Valaria would try to crawl her way to Rue otherwise.
Myrna nods at the situation. "Twenty miles?" she muses. "We can do that easy."
While Hinagiku meditates and the Archdruid takes care of his still-ailing friend, Myrna stands. She begins organizing her troops. During the storm, their camping gear had flown everywhere. Perhaps they could recover and pack some of it away during the hour that they had. She also wished to gather the remains of her fallen soldiers, if not for burial then for transport back to Drezen.
Her goal: To be ready to march as soon as Hinagiku was ready.
Li'an can't help but be impressed when Myrna is able to cast a remove curse powerful enough to break Jaruunica's curse, something she'd been unable to do herself despite trying repeatedly. "That was incredible, Myrna. Well done," she says, complimenting her.
"I am glad to see you up, Val," she says, giving the tiefling a smile. "We will get you healed up, and you'll have time to meet with Rue soon. We had plenty of time to get to know her while waiting for Myrna and her cohort to arrive, and she's been out scouting while Myrna and her crusaders set up camp since the battle ended."
Thinking, she turns to the others, contradicting her own earlier assertion that they head out right away. "I'll need some time to recuperate my spells. Give me an hour and I'll be ready if we want to leave immediately."
Auraelia nods at Gaiwan. "The worldwound is pernicious, but I see no reason not to push the limits of Pulura's blessing," she says undaunted by the failures. It would be easier if people didn't eat or drink, but there was even less she could do about that. "Do you mind if I turn off the lights? Just in case our nosy friend happens to not be able to see in the dark," she asks.
Valaria, her gaze wavering between Ehren and Hinagiku, seems to wrestle with her own thoughts, the weight of her condition evident in her eyes. Hinagiku's words, delivered with a mix of gentleness and authority, appear to slowly sink in.
As the reality of her surroundings and the presence of the Crusaders around her becomes clear, Valaria's expression shifts subtly. She understands the delicacy of mentioning Arueshalae in this company. Her initial insistence softens, replaced by a weary resignation.
"Alright," Valaria concedes. "I... I understand. Please, let me know about Rue as soon as you can. Wait. Myrna, was it? Thank you for... for everything," she adds.
Valaria's gaze then darts to Li'an, recognition dawning slowly in her weary eyes. The transformation Li'an has undergone since their brief but intense romance years ago is striking, yet something in her essence remains unmistakably familiar. A complex mix of emotions flickers across Valaria's face – surprise, nostalgia, and a tinge of sorrow for a past that ended too abruptly with Li'an's death.
"Li'an..." Valaria's voice is a whisper. "I... I didn't expect to see you again, not after..." Her words trail off.
She takes a moment to compose herself, a frail smile gracing her lips. "It's good to see you well, truly." Her eyes close, a silent acknowledgement of her own need to rest and recuperate before she can pursue her concerns further.
Unafe steps forward. "I'll try to reach Rue through the Dreamlands. It's the safest way to communicate under these circumstances."
Unafe closes her eyes, her brow furrowing as she focuses. The air around her seems to shimmer slightly, a visible manifestation of her connection to the Dreamlands. She reaches out with her mind, attempting to bridge the distance to Arueshalae.
However, after a few moments, Unafe's eyes snap open, a look of mild frustration crossing her features. "She's resisting," she explains.
The curse's hold has been lifted, but its shadow still lingers, sapping her vitality.
Gaiwan, with a resolute expression, nods in agreement with Auraelia. "Extinguishing the lights makes sense," he says, his voice low. "Do whatever you need to do, Auraelia."
Auraelia swiftly sets the shelter into darkness. She then focuses on her divine magic, calling upon Pulura's blessing in her attempts to create sustenance. She performs the ritual repeatedly, hoping for a breakthrough, each attempt a battle against the Worldwound's insidious corruption. Food appears, but it's twisted, tainted by an unseen malice. She tries again. Again, the sustenance materializes, but its corruption is evident, unfit for consumption. Her third is valiant, but the results are the same; the Worldwound's influence proves too strong. Her final attempt is her strongest, yet even this proves insufficient against the pervasive evil of the Worldwound. Each time, Auraelia turns on the lights briefly, a flicker of hope in her eyes, only to find the food and water twisted and defiled. She turns off the lights again, sitting back in the darkness, her spirit undimmed but her options dwindling.
Satisfied that Valaria is no longer in immediate danger, Ehren steps back to give her some breathing room. Unfortunately, even with the powerful magic at their disposal, there was no getting around the fact that it would take weeks for her to recover from the damage done by the curse. Still, he is overjoyed to hear her speaking outside of the Dreamlands. Speaking of which...
"That's to be expected," Ehren remarks when Unafe reports her inability to contact Arueshelae. The succubus was no doubt accustomed to being targeted by her enemies' divinations. "Your power to enter the world of dreams is wondrous indeed, but we will not always be able to rely on it."
The druid glances at Valaria, realizing that if not for her infirmity, her mind might have resisted Unafe's attempt to draw her into her dreamspace.
After some consideration, Ehren nods in agreement with Hinagiku and Li'an. "If we are staying for a little while longer, then I will recover my spells as well. The menhir is in dangerous territory - we should prepare ourselves in any way possible."
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While her soldiers prepare themselves for travel, Myrna runs herself through her battle exercises, stretching and warming up her body. The others were right -- they had a difficult road ahead of them today. Who knew what challenges they would face.
While the others recuperate and prepare for the journey ahead, the Hellfire Squadron is a hive of activity under Myrna's command. The soldiers, resilient and disciplined, get to work with a sense of urgency.
Thornam, the steadfast dwarven tiefling warpriest, oversees the gathering and repair of scattered equipment. His keen eye misses nothing as he ensures every piece of armor and weapon is accounted for and in top condition. He moves among the troops, offering words of encouragement and occasionally lending a hand to repair a dented shield or a loose armor strap. Renat Papp, the Mendevian ranger, takes charge of scouting the perimeter. He moves like a shadow, blending with the environment, his eyes and ears alert for any signs of danger.
Braith works swiftly to dig graves, her hands steady despite the sorrow that weighs on them. As each body is laid to rest, a moment of silence envelops the group, a silent homage to their sacrifice. Afanen's lyre softly accompanies the ceremony, her music a gentle echo of mourning and tribute.
Beatrix begins to speak. "In the name of Iomedae, the Inheritor, we commit our fallen brothers and sister to the eternal embrace of the Lady of Valor. May their courage be remembered, their spirits find rest, and their sacrifices guide us on our path."
She pauses, closing her eyes as if gathering her thoughts. "Iomedae, guide these valiant souls on their journey to your righteous realm. Grant them peace and honor them for their unwavering dedication to our cause. In the battles we face ahead, let us draw strength from their memory, embody their bravery, and continue their fight against darkness."
With a final, heartfelt plea, Beatrix adds, "Bless us, Lady of Valor, so we may uphold the ideals for which our comrades gave their lives. Protect us in our quest, and let our swords and hearts be true in your service. Amen."
Finally, each grave is marked with stones carved with sword-crosses, names etched with care. Renat, his bow in hand, fires a volley of arrows into the sky, a final salute to the departed. With heavy hearts but a renewed sense of purpose, the Hellfire Squadron concludes the burial, turning their focus to the journey ahead.
Before the group marches out, Myrna turns to her companions. "Friends, isn't one reason we came here to retrieve a Desnan artifact -- the one that Valaria here used to stay safe despite the Abyssal siege? Shouldn't we collect it before we leave?"
Header
Percept +23 low-light vision, blindsight 50', detect evil creatures within 200' emanation | Init +6 | AC 32, Touch 29, FF 26 +4 dodge when moving | DR1/- | CMD 35 | Fort + 16 Ref +18 Will +20, +2 vs death effects, +4 insight vs starv., thirst, some diseases and some poisons | Evasion (for all saves)
AC breakdown: 4 dex, 6 wis, 2 sage, 2 enhanc, 2 deflection, 2 dodge, 3 insight, 1 nat ac enhanc
Others: | Treat exposure to hot and cold as 2 steps milder (or 1 when sleeping or unconscious),
____.|.AoO__DgPool_LoH_Medit__Ki__MP
Left..|..04........18........7........4........16....00
Max.|..04........18........7........4........19....11
154/154 hp
Martial focus: 1/1
Resources spent
Rolls
Contingency:
Actions
Swift:
Move:
Move (enhanced patrol):
Free:
Standard: move
Full round action:
_______________________________
Hinagiku stays by Valaria’s side throughout her meditation session, taking short breaks every so often to check up on her past companion. And, when it seems that everyone is gathering to give homage to the fallen, Hinagiku helps the tiefling out so that her caretakers and her can witness the ceremony.
Once they are enterred and the last of Renat’s volley falls out of sight beyond the walls of Caerwen, Hinagiku heeds Myrna’s suggestion and climbs the stairs and ladders of the bell tower. Upon reaching the steeple, she inspects the bell to find a way to untie it.
"If it is possible, then by all means, we should," Ehren agrees, looking up at the Bell of Mercy. As fortunate as it allowed Valaria and Arueshelae to find sanctuary in Caerwen, other, more defensible places could benefit from its power. "Just know that doing so would complicate our return to Drezen. If Li'an's words are correct, I cannot carry the bell through the ley. We would have to convey it the rest of the way on foot."
As Hinagiku reaches the steeple, she finds the Bell of Mercy. Weighing around 2,000 pounds and standing 3 feet tall, it's cradled in a darkwood frame, securely anchored to the tower. Intricate Desnan symbols etch its surface, indicating its sacred purpose.
The bell is fixed to a sturdy horizontal beam. Strong bolts fasten the bell to the beam, ensuring stability under the dynamic forces of its tolling. Inside the bell, a simple clapper mechanism is designed to produce a pure, resonant sound.
The Bell of Mercy is a sacred beacon for Desna's followers. This tower, ancient and mystical, is known among Desnans as one of the Seven Towers of Desna's palace, mirrored in six other places across the Inner Sea, each with a Bell of Mercy. They stand as sanctuaries, guiding and protecting the faithful.
Pilgrims of Desna journey to each, seeking enlightenment and shelter. If you were to remove the bell, not only would you deny future pilgrims a safe haven, but the Sacred Tower would be vulnerable to the Worldwound's corruption. These towers, they're more than just structures; they're part of a sacred trust. Which is why the towers themselves can be perilous for those who don't follow the Song of the Spheres.
"We can certainly try to take down the bell and take it with us, but we will need to march it all the way to Drezen. But we could still get most of the Crusaders home quickly via the Ley and then march the bell ourselves the remainder of the way. That way we minimize the risk in traveling. If so I will try to see if I can disable the bell."
Although this was Hinagiku’s third time up in the steeple, only now did circumstances allow her to fully take in the magnificence of the bell. The fingers draw the etchings in the air just above ot while her mind and spirit align with the aura. She can hear the faint sound echo of other bells in the flow of the world, beacon’s to travellers, the wards of Desna. Slowly, realization draws on the monk, realization of how wrong it would be to remove a refuge in the midst of a forbidding land only to move it to a place already safe for travellers.
The monk flies down from the tower to rwgroup with the others.
”I had not thought of it earlier, but taking the bell away would anger the Song of Spheres. This is the bell’s place and where it should remain.
Header
Percept +23 low-light vision, blindsight 50', detect evil creatures within 200' emanation | Init +6 | AC 32, Touch 29, FF 26 +4 dodge when moving | DR1/- | CMD 35 | Fort + 16 Ref +18 Will +20, +2 vs death effects, +4 insight vs starv., thirst, some diseases and some poisons | Evasion (for all saves)
AC breakdown: 4 dex, 6 wis, 2 sage, 2 enhanc, 2 deflection, 2 dodge, 3 insight, 1 nat ac enhanc
Others: | Treat exposure to hot and cold as 2 steps milder (or 1 when sleeping or unconscious),
____.|.AoO__DgPool_LoH_Medit__Ki__MP
Left..|..04........18........7........3........16....00
Max.|..04........18........7........4........19....11
154/154 hp
Martial focus: 1/1
Resources spent
Rolls
Contingency:
Actions
Swift:
Move:
Move (enhanced patrol):
Free:
Standard: move
Full round action:
_______________________________