Erbert says to Syndra "The name is Erbert my lady," as he takes the map, his hands fondling it eagerly "and I thank you for this map, I will take up this quest, I feel that it is what I was made for. I am strong enough to survive the jungle and learn its ways." Cuervo, sitting on his left shoulder, starts squawking and chittering, clearly indicating “No, you’re not.”
After hearing Cuervo's disapproval and turning his head to him, he says "Ahem, ... with the help of my companions of course. I.. would like to work with you all. If you would have me, I would like to join you on this task." He looks to all of you, seeking acceptance, a clear smile on his face coupled with a look of determination.
(You note by the whitish discolored patch on the back of his robe over his left scapula that Cuervo must enjoy sitting on his left shoulder the most.)
"Given the relative lack of information, I find it difficult to make an accurate assessment of the needed strength required for the task ahead. However, my path leads inexorably to Chult. If there is something malignant growing in the jungles, I will happily lend what strength and knowledge I can in cutting it out."
Edwin stands a little straighter, doing his best to put on a show of confidence.
"I will help. My goddess needs a champion there and I am that champion," Dryn replies resolutely with a curt nod of her head she then looks to Fennic curious for his answer.
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“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Fennics lips start to curl to a grin the more the land of Chult is being described. He swallows the last of the wine as he opens his mouth wide, strong teeth shown as he licks his lips of the taste of wine and sets the glass down.
”I know very little of you all, save my companion Dryn.” He stands tall as his hands rest on the hilts of swords absentmindedly, “I believe only the strongest survive this world. Dryn has proven they are strong...”
His eyes narrow as he glances about the room, “I will show my strength and lend it to you all.” Fennic clenched his hand and placed it upon his chest, closing his eyes and bowing slightly. “I hope you all prove to be predators and not prey in our journey...”
Fennic grins and nods to his Patron, “I am ready.”
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Viktor Dreamweaver - Cleric - "I'm the stuff of nightmares kid."
Tyril Strongbones - Ranger- "I prick and poke until I get what I need... Whether it be supple flesh or cold steel"
Zedair Daardendarian- Fighter- "You were not a challenge. How unfortunate for you."
DM. Player. Teacher. Husband. Cat owner. Dog Lover
Ice turned his head and listened in interest to the discussion of the journey. “Strength comes in many forms. I believe my will is strong. Together as a group we can be strong. There is no reason why we should not succeed in this mission. Even if others would not go, I would carry this out on my own for the chance to enter Chult.”
At Syndra's words, Squawk trembles for a moment. There was so much danger involved! Mustering his courage, he says, "I won't fail you, mistress!" He takes a defiant stance to accentuate his words.
"I know you won't..." Syndra answers to Squawk with a sigh. She looks up to the other five people in the room. "Is it decided then. I hope you all won't back down on your words..."
She turns to the gray kobold. "This is goodbye then, my good Aussir. You and the others already know what to do while I'm gone. And if I don't return..."
"...Which won't happen" The kobold quickly mutters. Syndra continues.
"...I have made arrangements so that you and the tribe are my inheritors. Do not let anyone get their hands on this mansion and its contents, and do not let anyone evict you from here. Build traps around it if you have to. Are we understood?"
The kobold just nods, sorrowful. He glances to Squawk and gives him a friendly nod before leaving.
"Alright, gather around me everyone..." Syndra says, her tone confident despite her current state. She casts Teleport, and the room around you fades as her magic transport you somewhere else.
You appear in a tropical city under the blazing sun. The familiar sounds of a harbor — creaking ropes, slapping waves, heavy barrels rolling across cobblestones — mingle with voices shouting and cursing in a language filled with clicks, inhalations, and singsongy words that make it sound almost musical. The aroma of unfamiliar spices and tropical fruit mixes with the wharfside smells of fish, tar, and canvas.
Beyond all that, Port Nyanzaru is an explosion of color. Buildings are painted in bright shades of blue, green, orange, and salmon pink, or their walls are adorned with murals portraying giant reptiles and mythical heroes. Every building sports baskets and clay urns of colorful flowers or is draped in leafy, flowering vines. Minstrels in bright clothing adorned with feathers and shells perform on street corners. Multicolored pennants and sun awnings flutter atop the city walls. A crowd of children dressed in feathered hats and capes races past you, squealing in delighted terror as a street performer costumed as a big-toothed lizard stomps and roars behind them. The whole city seems to be bustling, sweating, laughing, swearing, and singing.
It is as if you have been transported to another world: Domesticated dinosaurs roam the streets, used as mounts and animal companions. Music you have never heard, food you have never tasted... Everywhere you look, something new manages to catch your eye. Even those of you who once lived here have to take a moment to take in the sights around you.
"Welcome to Chult" Syndra Silvane says. "Try to not get lost..."
((@GAYmerGuy: You may now introduce your character))
You hear a sound of "Oh my, yes yes yes yes Yes!" from beside you. Erbert is fascinated both by the teleportation spell and the new surroundings. You see a little gnome bopping up and down on his feet, clear excitement in his eyes. "It is just like I read about! Look at them! The dinosaurs!! Do you see Cuervo, I told you!" He claps his hands together excitedly and then finally regains his composure as he remembers why there are there and his new companions. "Sorry. I didn't know it would be so much like what I have read about, but yet... so much more! Please ignore me for a moment. I don't mean to embarrass you."
Fennic shudders as a result of the Teleportation, he had only one prior experience and it was not a pleasant one. As the group arrives in Chult, Fennic takes a knee to gather his stomach and closes his eyes to ease the queasy feeling in his stomach and spinning brain. As Fennic opens his eyes you see him instinctively reach for the hilt of his blades, but slowly drops his arms to his sides as he begins to gaze upon the new world in front of him. The colors swirled, the smells and aroma assaulted his nostrils, and he stood in awe of the large reptilians creatures that Ebert referred to as dinosaurs. Fennic grinned as he watched the domesticated animals rippling muscles, dangerous claws, powerful teeth, and overall powerful stature made his fingers twitch.
"What powerful creatures..." Fennic scratched at his chin, "This shall prove a most interesting and unique Hunt..."
Fennic turns to Ice and gives as earnest smile as he can manage, "Strength in all manners is still strength... What you say has merit. I will think on this."
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Viktor Dreamweaver - Cleric - "I'm the stuff of nightmares kid."
Tyril Strongbones - Ranger- "I prick and poke until I get what I need... Whether it be supple flesh or cold steel"
Zedair Daardendarian- Fighter- "You were not a challenge. How unfortunate for you."
DM. Player. Teacher. Husband. Cat owner. Dog Lover
A woman stood among the crowd, as though waiting for something. She wasn't of a great height, though the way she carried herself made her seem much taller than she actually was. She stood as though expectant, looking for the world to fall upon its knees in worship at her feet. Among the sea of colors that was the Port, she also stood out. Her wrists were banded with gold, while a similarly colored collar bearing a glittering emerald rested regally upon her throat. A dress that seemed to be woven from jade draped her form, accompanied by heeled sandals that seemed to glint gold like her jewelry. Long white locks of hair fell to frame her face in elegant curls, atop which sat a tiara inlaid with large emeralds matching her other adornments.
Her eyes leveled on the group as she noticed their appearance, then she began walking towards them. As she did so, she paid no attention to those around her. And even though she ignored the crowd, it seemed to part before her in reverence. She came to stand before Syndra, a charming smile lighting up beautiful features. She didn't spare the others so much as a glance, only paying attention to the woman "Syndra Silvane. Even when ill, your presence is unmistakably magnetic." Her voice was smooth and velvety, and while she bore the heavy accent of someone who's primary language isn't Common, her words rang clear with impeccable enunciation.
Now she gave a glance to the others, her eyes flicking over them all quickly, lingering but a moment on Dryn and O'waac before returning to Syndra "Why didn't you teleport directly into the villa? You know father would want to make you as comfortable as possible as quickly as possible. Come now, you know how unforgiving the Chultean sun can be this time of year." She held out her arm to Syndra, looking to help guide her, then spoke to the others as though in afterthought "You may follow as well. But do try to keep up."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Dryn returns the curious glance giving to her before inhaling a deep breath of famailar air. Any where else was arctic compared to Chult, to home. Taking off her tattered cloak Dryn stuffs it into her pack.
"Wonders aren't they Fennic. This place is full of so many wonders," Dryn says sounding slightly more childlike than ever before the acolyte of Selune returning home seems bittersweet knowing that her monastery still lay in ruins and her mother as well as the others who raised her lay dead in the jungle she fled. "I don't think you'd hunt them," she says motioning at a dinosaur steed. "Would you hunt a horse or an ox? Or someone's cat? Wait for the jungles my friend. Plenty of things to hunt there," she adds moving with the group but keeping an eye out around them for anyone paying them particular attention.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
There's a small chuckle from Syndra before it is followed by a cough. "Worderful, aren't they?" She says, answering their comments about the dinosaurs. "There's lots of unique beasts of burden around here..."
She's interrupted by the tiara-wearing woman.
"...I find that there's less risks of mishaps when teleporting to a more open area." Syndra excuses herself as she accepts the arm being offered to her, she sounds somewhat amused.
Turning to the travelers, she says. "She is Wakanga's daughter, Zyanya" Turning back to the girl, she nods. "Let's go then"
As you walk, you keep seeing dinosaurs used as beasts of burden to haul two-wheeled carts, to hoist heavy loads on cranes, and to tow boats along the canals. Flowers, green plants, and vines grow everywhere, seeming to spring out of the building stones themselves. When you look at the horizon, you see the city’s defensive walls and towers, topped with colorful awnings to shield guards from the sun and rain. All streets within these walls are paved with cobblestones or flagstones, and they have deep rain gutters as much as 2 feet wide.
Dryn, by paying attention, you notice that some of the crumbling buildings, covered with vines and lichens, look ancient: An indicative of the city's great age. You also notice that some of the music that reaches your ears come from the Tabaxi minstrels who wander the streets, performing for anyone who tosses them a few coins.
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Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
Squawk stumbles a bit after arriving in the city. He blinks and squints at the blinding light pouring down upon them from the merciless sun overhead. Blinking back tears from his very sensitive eyes, he looks on in awe of the dinosaurs patrolling the streets. He had thought that his new companions were large, but these were absolutely huge! As the group begins to move on through Nyanzaru, Squawk puts himself in the shadow of one of the larger folk to block some of the relentless light reaching him. He stays mostly silent, taking in the wonders he sees through blurred vision.
Ice had heard the stories. He had studied the books about Chult. He had spoken to people who had actually been here. But nothing had prepared him for what he saw now. Even knowing all those things, this place felt alien. Amazing, but strange in so many unexpected and invigorating ways. The dinosaurs were awe-inspiring, walking down the streets as if they were tame pets. Those hides must make for some good armour,he mused as he watched them walk. Turning slowly, Ice in Summer tried to take in the whole scene, but he kept getting drawn to unusual combinations of colours, and the unexpected cut of clothes. He could live a thousand lifetimes here and still be discovering new details. Where to begin?
From out of the sea of people a woman stepped forward. From her manner, she clearly knew some of the group, had even, possibly, been expecting them to appear.
"You may follow as well. But do try to keep up."
Still with his head on a swivel, Ice followed as close as he could, trying to avoid losing sight of them in the crowd.
A distracted hunter often makes a misstep in strange lands.
Fennic recalled his clan's words as he began to walk with purpose, positioning himself beside Dryn. He grinned at her and shrugged, "Apologies friend, I am sure we will find many challenges here in strange lands. My focus is on our query" He brings a raised fist to his chest and nods, "I am thankful we crossed paths... There is much strength here and I wish to see if I am worthy of the challenge to survive here."
He glanced over his shoulder at Squawk who was tailing behind them, wincing from the sun and attempting to stay close to the group. He waited until Squawk glanced up and nodded to the small Kobold, "At the very least you have basic survival instincts." Fennic chuckled a little bit and made some space between Dryn and himself. "Stay close little one, we must be careful to stay hunters and not a meal for pack animals, eh?"
Edwin had landed hard in the street. As he rose, he stumbled slightly. The combination of the lingering effects of his first teleportation and the thick moist air of Port Nyanzaru had taken its toll.
"Well that was rather unpleasant."
He had barely regained his proposal when he noticed his companions already winding their way through the streets. He hurriedly followed as not to be left behind.
Erbert pads along eagerly, following the group, his little legs hurrying quickly. He sends Cuervo up higher in the air for a literal birds eye view, to have a look at where they are going and what else may be around. After a look Cuervo comes back down and stays with Erbert. He struggles to make it to the front of the group just so that he can see. He takes in as many sights as he can, pulling out his notebook and pen, scribbling notes as they walk, keeping his journal up to date. His nimble little feet keep him from falling many times as he is looking and writing too much.
Zyanya had a unique method of observing others without actually looking at them, and was subtly taking in all of their reactions. She would speak to Syndra in the language that was flowing around them like music, punctuated with sharp consonants, long vowels and a few clicks here and there. There might be a few among the group who understand Chultean, and they would hear: "A whole mess of first timers and a little kobold to boot. You do love your underdogs, Syndra." She would then continue in Common "Father told me what little he could of your goal, and we came to the decision that I should lend aid as well."
She gave Syndra a conspiratory smile "And by that I mean I told my father what I would be doing, he spent a day trying to beg me to change my mind and I am going through with it anyway." Zyanya giggled, a light musical thing. When next she spoke, it was aimed at the entire group "You will need a native in the jungle...well a native that's been here most of their lives. And not those who've just returned."
As they rounded a corner, having been led deftly through the busy streets if no one had fallen behind the group, they would take in a long stretch of road leading to what must have been the villa Zyanya spoke of earlier. It was larger than the rest of the buildings surrounding it, cordoned off by large walls. The building looks as ancient as the rest of those surrounding it, with lush plant-life reaching across its surfaces, but there is a sculpted and well-tended look to it. No plant is where the owner of the house doesn't want it, and the old look of the house is one carefully curated "We can take a bit to rest up and get your bearings, and Syndra can give me more details."
(Note: I'm just gonna italicize speech when she's speaking anything that's not in Common, and mentioning the language she's speaking in bold, so I don't have to put spoilers or anything with translations.)
O'waac follows along the group, listening but not speaking. He is taking in the sights, remembering this place from when he left so many years ago. The smells and sounds were bring back faded memories. Memories made even more disjointed after the accident. He does remember that the larger beasts scared him as a child. He begins to relax on their walk. Once they arrive at their destination, he tenses back up a bit.
((I like using different fonts for different languages. Times New Roman: Chultean.))
Erbert, after you sent your familiar to fly to get a sight of the city, you get glimpses of the following:
Port Nyanzaru is a city of walls within walls. The walls are impressive barriers of massive, fitted stone. Like other structures in Port Nyanzaru, they’re decorated with colorful paintings of geometric designs, animals, and mythic figures. A painting catches Cuervo's eye as he flies over it: A mural despicting what looks like a knight or a paladin slaying with his sword what at first seems like just giant, demonic-looking birds, but a closer looks of the painting reveals that the birds are depicted as having arms and hands, and weapons of their own. It is obvious that this must just be another mythical tale, with the knight as the brave hero and these bird people as the monsters, but unlike the other mythic heroes depicted in other murals this knight does not look Chultean.
The city is defined by four steep hills, and outside the main walls are what looks like three slums: One to the southwest, where many buildings are remnants of older, pyramidal construction; other to the south, where buildings cling to the walls of a lush canyon spanned by rope bridges; and what seems like an anchorage to the southeast, down to the river.
On the southwest slum, you see a rectangular, stone-lined pit, set across a road: The Executioner's Run.
There's a statue at the center of the harbor that represents an ancient Chultan king in full regalia, resplendent in a loincloth of leopard skin and a headdress of feathers, shells, and tyrannosaurus teeth; draped in a cape of girallon fur and monkey tails; and wielding the traditional oval shield and yklwa of Chult.
There's a Coliseum, markets, mansions, warehouses, a lighthouse, a bazaar, public bathhouses, and three Temples.
When the group enters the villa, the door of the building opens, and a human man comes out to welcome you. As with Zyanya, you immediately get a royal vibe from him, and while he is not dressing as much jewelry as her, the gold necklaces around his neck are pretty telling of his economical status.
"Zyanya, mylittle hummingbird..." He says, welcoming her back effusively as if she had been gone longer than what she actually did. He quickly turns to Syndra. "Welcome back, my lady. It is good to see ya, even on these ungrateful circumstances... That silver mask looks good on you." He adds awkwardly, trying to get used to seeing her like this. Maybe Syndra was quite the looker when she was healthy, and he is trying to jokingly flirt just like in the good times.
It is then that he seems to notice the rest of the group. "Are these the people you hired? Quite the ragtag bunch, they seem..." He comments aloud in Chultean to Syndra, before greeting them. "Wakanga O'tamu, at your service. Be welcome to my villa. Please, come on in."
When you enter the mansion, the first word that comes to your mind is "golden". Golden walls and a warm palette of colors are the first thing to greet your eyes, and you perceive a scent of oranges and black tea in the air. It looks like the inside of a palace: Jewelry-embroidered decorations, mirrors, a kinetic sculpture depicting what looks like a constelation...
There's a painting hanging on the wall to your left: A colorful portrait of a female wood elf wearing a turquoise dress and holding a bouquet of white carnations. Her hair is as white as the flowers.
"Syndra, please sit down" Wakanga says, leading her to a royal sofa. Then he turns towards Zyanya and the rest. "If you really are going to do this, you'll need the best equipment we can find. The jungles aren't safe, you and your companions will need better gear..."
"...Is this your expedition now?" Syndra asks, amused. Then she addresses the group. "You already have your own weapons and plenty of talent, but to travel you'll need someone with the experience and knowledge needed to guide you through the jungle, as well as survival gear and a mount for when your feet and legs aren't enough. The Merchant Princes, like Wakanga here, can sell you all that and more. And I have the gold to pay them..."
Erbert says to Syndra "The name is Erbert my lady," as he takes the map, his hands fondling it eagerly "and I thank you for this map, I will take up this quest, I feel that it is what I was made for. I am strong enough to survive the jungle and learn its ways." Cuervo, sitting on his left shoulder, starts squawking and chittering, clearly indicating “No, you’re not.”
After hearing Cuervo's disapproval and turning his head to him, he says "Ahem, ... with the help of my companions of course. I.. would like to work with you all. If you would have me, I would like to join you on this task." He looks to all of you, seeking acceptance, a clear smile on his face coupled with a look of determination.
(You note by the whitish discolored patch on the back of his robe over his left scapula that Cuervo must enjoy sitting on his left shoulder the most.)
"Given the relative lack of information, I find it difficult to make an accurate assessment of the needed strength required for the task ahead. However, my path leads inexorably to Chult. If there is something malignant growing in the jungles, I will happily lend what strength and knowledge I can in cutting it out."
Edwin stands a little straighter, doing his best to put on a show of confidence.
Ryndar Shadowsbane - Lvl 3 Eldarin Fighter | Kassar - Lvl 2 Lizardfolk Druid (Circle of Stars) | Finnegan (Finn) Taggert - Lvl 1 Human Cleric (Peace Domain) |
Verdan Schmidt - Lvl 2 Half-Elf Bard | Grithik - Lvl 5 Deep Gnome Warlock (Celestial)
"I will help. My goddess needs a champion there and I am that champion," Dryn replies resolutely with a curt nod of her head she then looks to Fennic curious for his answer.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Fennics lips start to curl to a grin the more the land of Chult is being described. He swallows the last of the wine as he opens his mouth wide, strong teeth shown as he licks his lips of the taste of wine and sets the glass down.
”I know very little of you all, save my companion Dryn.” He stands tall as his hands rest on the hilts of swords absentmindedly, “I believe only the strongest survive this world. Dryn has proven they are strong...”
His eyes narrow as he glances about the room, “I will show my strength and lend it to you all.” Fennic clenched his hand and placed it upon his chest, closing his eyes and bowing slightly. “I hope you all prove to be predators and not prey in our journey...”
Fennic grins and nods to his Patron, “I am ready.”
Viktor Dreamweaver - Cleric - "I'm the stuff of nightmares kid."
Tyril Strongbones - Ranger- "I prick and poke until I get what I need... Whether it be supple flesh or cold steel"
Zedair Daardendarian- Fighter- "You were not a challenge. How unfortunate for you."
DM. Player. Teacher. Husband. Cat owner. Dog Lover
Ice turned his head and listened in interest to the discussion of the journey. “Strength comes in many forms. I believe my will is strong. Together as a group we can be strong. There is no reason why we should not succeed in this mission. Even if others would not go, I would carry this out on my own for the chance to enter Chult.”
At Syndra's words, Squawk trembles for a moment. There was so much danger involved! Mustering his courage, he says, "I won't fail you, mistress!" He takes a defiant stance to accentuate his words.
"I know you won't..." Syndra answers to Squawk with a sigh. She looks up to the other five people in the room. "Is it decided then. I hope you all won't back down on your words..."
She turns to the gray kobold. "This is goodbye then, my good Aussir. You and the others already know what to do while I'm gone. And if I don't return..."
"...Which won't happen" The kobold quickly mutters. Syndra continues.
"...I have made arrangements so that you and the tribe are my inheritors. Do not let anyone get their hands on this mansion and its contents, and do not let anyone evict you from here. Build traps around it if you have to. Are we understood?"
The kobold just nods, sorrowful. He glances to Squawk and gives him a friendly nod before leaving.
"Alright, gather around me everyone..." Syndra says, her tone confident despite her current state. She casts Teleport, and the room around you fades as her magic transport you somewhere else.
You appear in a tropical city under the blazing sun. The familiar sounds of a harbor — creaking ropes, slapping waves, heavy barrels rolling across cobblestones — mingle with voices shouting and cursing in a language filled with clicks, inhalations, and singsongy words that make it sound almost musical. The aroma of unfamiliar spices and tropical fruit mixes with the wharfside smells of fish, tar, and canvas.
Beyond all that, Port Nyanzaru is an explosion of color. Buildings are painted in bright shades of blue, green, orange, and salmon pink, or their walls are adorned with murals portraying giant reptiles and mythical heroes. Every building sports baskets and clay urns of colorful flowers or is draped in leafy, flowering vines. Minstrels in bright clothing adorned with feathers and shells perform on street corners. Multicolored pennants and sun awnings flutter atop the city walls. A crowd of children dressed in feathered hats and capes races past you, squealing in delighted terror as a street performer costumed as a big-toothed lizard stomps and roars behind them. The whole city seems to be bustling, sweating, laughing, swearing, and singing.
It is as if you have been transported to another world: Domesticated dinosaurs roam the streets, used as mounts and animal companions. Music you have never heard, food you have never tasted... Everywhere you look, something new manages to catch your eye. Even those of you who once lived here have to take a moment to take in the sights around you.
"Welcome to Chult" Syndra Silvane says. "Try to not get lost..."
((@GAYmerGuy: You may now introduce your character))
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
You hear a sound of "Oh my, yes yes yes yes Yes!" from beside you. Erbert is fascinated both by the teleportation spell and the new surroundings. You see a little gnome bopping up and down on his feet, clear excitement in his eyes. "It is just like I read about! Look at them! The dinosaurs!! Do you see Cuervo, I told you!" He claps his hands together excitedly and then finally regains his composure as he remembers why there are there and his new companions. "Sorry. I didn't know it would be so much like what I have read about, but yet... so much more! Please ignore me for a moment. I don't mean to embarrass you."
Fennic shudders as a result of the Teleportation, he had only one prior experience and it was not a pleasant one. As the group arrives in Chult, Fennic takes a knee to gather his stomach and closes his eyes to ease the queasy feeling in his stomach and spinning brain. As Fennic opens his eyes you see him instinctively reach for the hilt of his blades, but slowly drops his arms to his sides as he begins to gaze upon the new world in front of him. The colors swirled, the smells and aroma assaulted his nostrils, and he stood in awe of the large reptilians creatures that Ebert referred to as dinosaurs. Fennic grinned as he watched the domesticated animals rippling muscles, dangerous claws, powerful teeth, and overall powerful stature made his fingers twitch.
"What powerful creatures..." Fennic scratched at his chin, "This shall prove a most interesting and unique Hunt..."
Fennic turns to Ice and gives as earnest smile as he can manage, "Strength in all manners is still strength... What you say has merit. I will think on this."
Viktor Dreamweaver - Cleric - "I'm the stuff of nightmares kid."
Tyril Strongbones - Ranger- "I prick and poke until I get what I need... Whether it be supple flesh or cold steel"
Zedair Daardendarian- Fighter- "You were not a challenge. How unfortunate for you."
DM. Player. Teacher. Husband. Cat owner. Dog Lover
A woman stood among the crowd, as though waiting for something. She wasn't of a great height, though the way she carried herself made her seem much taller than she actually was. She stood as though expectant, looking for the world to fall upon its knees in worship at her feet. Among the sea of colors that was the Port, she also stood out. Her wrists were banded with gold, while a similarly colored collar bearing a glittering emerald rested regally upon her throat. A dress that seemed to be woven from jade draped her form, accompanied by heeled sandals that seemed to glint gold like her jewelry. Long white locks of hair fell to frame her face in elegant curls, atop which sat a tiara inlaid with large emeralds matching her other adornments.
Her eyes leveled on the group as she noticed their appearance, then she began walking towards them. As she did so, she paid no attention to those around her. And even though she ignored the crowd, it seemed to part before her in reverence. She came to stand before Syndra, a charming smile lighting up beautiful features. She didn't spare the others so much as a glance, only paying attention to the woman "Syndra Silvane. Even when ill, your presence is unmistakably magnetic." Her voice was smooth and velvety, and while she bore the heavy accent of someone who's primary language isn't Common, her words rang clear with impeccable enunciation.
Now she gave a glance to the others, her eyes flicking over them all quickly, lingering but a moment on Dryn and O'waac before returning to Syndra "Why didn't you teleport directly into the villa? You know father would want to make you as comfortable as possible as quickly as possible. Come now, you know how unforgiving the Chultean sun can be this time of year." She held out her arm to Syndra, looking to help guide her, then spoke to the others as though in afterthought "You may follow as well. But do try to keep up."
Dryn returns the curious glance giving to her before inhaling a deep breath of famailar air. Any where else was arctic compared to Chult, to home. Taking off her tattered cloak Dryn stuffs it into her pack.
"Wonders aren't they Fennic. This place is full of so many wonders," Dryn says sounding slightly more childlike than ever before the acolyte of Selune returning home seems bittersweet knowing that her monastery still lay in ruins and her mother as well as the others who raised her lay dead in the jungle she fled. "I don't think you'd hunt them," she says motioning at a dinosaur steed. "Would you hunt a horse or an ox? Or someone's cat? Wait for the jungles my friend. Plenty of things to hunt there," she adds moving with the group but keeping an eye out around them for anyone paying them particular attention.
Passive perception 10/9
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
There's a small chuckle from Syndra before it is followed by a cough. "Worderful, aren't they?" She says, answering their comments about the dinosaurs. "There's lots of unique beasts of burden around here..."
She's interrupted by the tiara-wearing woman.
"...I find that there's less risks of mishaps when teleporting to a more open area." Syndra excuses herself as she accepts the arm being offered to her, she sounds somewhat amused.
Turning to the travelers, she says. "She is Wakanga's daughter, Zyanya" Turning back to the girl, she nods. "Let's go then"
As you walk, you keep seeing dinosaurs used as beasts of burden to haul two-wheeled carts, to hoist heavy loads on cranes, and to tow boats along the canals. Flowers, green plants, and vines grow everywhere, seeming to spring out of the building stones themselves. When you look at the horizon, you see the city’s defensive walls and towers, topped with colorful awnings to shield guards from the sun and rain. All streets within these walls are paved with cobblestones or flagstones, and they have deep rain gutters as much as 2 feet wide.
Dryn, by paying attention, you notice that some of the crumbling buildings, covered with vines and lichens, look ancient: An indicative of the city's great age. You also notice that some of the music that reaches your ears come from the Tabaxi minstrels who wander the streets, performing for anyone who tosses them a few coins.
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
Squawk stumbles a bit after arriving in the city. He blinks and squints at the blinding light pouring down upon them from the merciless sun overhead. Blinking back tears from his very sensitive eyes, he looks on in awe of the dinosaurs patrolling the streets. He had thought that his new companions were large, but these were absolutely huge! As the group begins to move on through Nyanzaru, Squawk puts himself in the shadow of one of the larger folk to block some of the relentless light reaching him. He stays mostly silent, taking in the wonders he sees through blurred vision.
Ice had heard the stories. He had studied the books about Chult. He had spoken to people who had actually been here. But nothing had prepared him for what he saw now. Even knowing all those things, this place felt alien. Amazing, but strange in so many unexpected and invigorating ways. The dinosaurs were awe-inspiring, walking down the streets as if they were tame pets. Those hides must make for some good armour, he mused as he watched them walk. Turning slowly, Ice in Summer tried to take in the whole scene, but he kept getting drawn to unusual combinations of colours, and the unexpected cut of clothes. He could live a thousand lifetimes here and still be discovering new details. Where to begin?
From out of the sea of people a woman stepped forward. From her manner, she clearly knew some of the group, had even, possibly, been expecting them to appear.
Still with his head on a swivel, Ice followed as close as he could, trying to avoid losing sight of them in the crowd.
A distracted hunter often makes a misstep in strange lands.
Fennic recalled his clan's words as he began to walk with purpose, positioning himself beside Dryn. He grinned at her and shrugged, "Apologies friend, I am sure we will find many challenges here in strange lands. My focus is on our query" He brings a raised fist to his chest and nods, "I am thankful we crossed paths... There is much strength here and I wish to see if I am worthy of the challenge to survive here."
He glanced over his shoulder at Squawk who was tailing behind them, wincing from the sun and attempting to stay close to the group. He waited until Squawk glanced up and nodded to the small Kobold, "At the very least you have basic survival instincts." Fennic chuckled a little bit and made some space between Dryn and himself. "Stay close little one, we must be careful to stay hunters and not a meal for pack animals, eh?"
Viktor Dreamweaver - Cleric - "I'm the stuff of nightmares kid."
Tyril Strongbones - Ranger- "I prick and poke until I get what I need... Whether it be supple flesh or cold steel"
Zedair Daardendarian- Fighter- "You were not a challenge. How unfortunate for you."
DM. Player. Teacher. Husband. Cat owner. Dog Lover
Edwin had landed hard in the street. As he rose, he stumbled slightly. The combination of the lingering effects of his first teleportation and the thick moist air of Port Nyanzaru had taken its toll.
"Well that was rather unpleasant."
He had barely regained his proposal when he noticed his companions already winding their way through the streets. He hurriedly followed as not to be left behind.
Ryndar Shadowsbane - Lvl 3 Eldarin Fighter | Kassar - Lvl 2 Lizardfolk Druid (Circle of Stars) | Finnegan (Finn) Taggert - Lvl 1 Human Cleric (Peace Domain) |
Verdan Schmidt - Lvl 2 Half-Elf Bard | Grithik - Lvl 5 Deep Gnome Warlock (Celestial)
Erbert pads along eagerly, following the group, his little legs hurrying quickly. He sends Cuervo up higher in the air for a literal birds eye view, to have a look at where they are going and what else may be around. After a look Cuervo comes back down and stays with Erbert. He struggles to make it to the front of the group just so that he can see. He takes in as many sights as he can, pulling out his notebook and pen, scribbling notes as they walk, keeping his journal up to date. His nimble little feet keep him from falling many times as he is looking and writing too much.
Zyanya had a unique method of observing others without actually looking at them, and was subtly taking in all of their reactions. She would speak to Syndra in the language that was flowing around them like music, punctuated with sharp consonants, long vowels and a few clicks here and there. There might be a few among the group who understand Chultean, and they would hear: "A whole mess of first timers and a little kobold to boot. You do love your underdogs, Syndra." She would then continue in Common "Father told me what little he could of your goal, and we came to the decision that I should lend aid as well."
She gave Syndra a conspiratory smile "And by that I mean I told my father what I would be doing, he spent a day trying to beg me to change my mind and I am going through with it anyway." Zyanya giggled, a light musical thing. When next she spoke, it was aimed at the entire group "You will need a native in the jungle...well a native that's been here most of their lives. And not those who've just returned."
As they rounded a corner, having been led deftly through the busy streets if no one had fallen behind the group, they would take in a long stretch of road leading to what must have been the villa Zyanya spoke of earlier. It was larger than the rest of the buildings surrounding it, cordoned off by large walls. The building looks as ancient as the rest of those surrounding it, with lush plant-life reaching across its surfaces, but there is a sculpted and well-tended look to it. No plant is where the owner of the house doesn't want it, and the old look of the house is one carefully curated "We can take a bit to rest up and get your bearings, and Syndra can give me more details."
(Note: I'm just gonna italicize speech when she's speaking anything that's not in Common, and mentioning the language she's speaking in bold, so I don't have to put spoilers or anything with translations.)
O'waac follows along the group, listening but not speaking. He is taking in the sights, remembering this place from when he left so many years ago. The smells and sounds were bring back faded memories. Memories made even more disjointed after the accident. He does remember that the larger beasts scared him as a child. He begins to relax on their walk. Once they arrive at their destination, he tenses back up a bit.
Enzo Ballantine - Shadow Sorcerer
((I like using different fonts for different languages. Times New Roman: Chultean.))
Erbert, after you sent your familiar to fly to get a sight of the city, you get glimpses of the following:
Port Nyanzaru is a city of walls within walls. The walls are impressive barriers of massive, fitted stone. Like other structures in Port Nyanzaru, they’re decorated with colorful paintings of geometric designs, animals, and mythic figures. A painting catches Cuervo's eye as he flies over it: A mural despicting what looks like a knight or a paladin slaying with his sword what at first seems like just giant, demonic-looking birds, but a closer looks of the painting reveals that the birds are depicted as having arms and hands, and weapons of their own. It is obvious that this must just be another mythical tale, with the knight as the brave hero and these bird people as the monsters, but unlike the other mythic heroes depicted in other murals this knight does not look Chultean.
The city is defined by four steep hills, and outside the main walls are what looks like three slums: One to the southwest, where many buildings are remnants of older, pyramidal construction; other to the south, where buildings cling to the walls of a lush canyon spanned by rope bridges; and what seems like an anchorage to the southeast, down to the river.
On the southwest slum, you see a rectangular, stone-lined pit, set across a road: The Executioner's Run.
There's a statue at the center of the harbor that represents an ancient Chultan king in full regalia, resplendent in a loincloth of leopard skin and a headdress of feathers, shells, and tyrannosaurus teeth; draped in a cape of girallon fur and monkey tails; and wielding the traditional oval shield and yklwa of Chult.
There's a Coliseum, markets, mansions, warehouses, a lighthouse, a bazaar, public bathhouses, and three Temples.
When the group enters the villa, the door of the building opens, and a human man comes out to welcome you. As with Zyanya, you immediately get a royal vibe from him, and while he is not dressing as much jewelry as her, the gold necklaces around his neck are pretty telling of his economical status.
"Zyanya, my little hummingbird..." He says, welcoming her back effusively as if she had been gone longer than what she actually did. He quickly turns to Syndra. "Welcome back, my lady. It is good to see ya, even on these ungrateful circumstances... That silver mask looks good on you." He adds awkwardly, trying to get used to seeing her like this. Maybe Syndra was quite the looker when she was healthy, and he is trying to jokingly flirt just like in the good times.
It is then that he seems to notice the rest of the group. "Are these the people you hired? Quite the ragtag bunch, they seem..." He comments aloud in Chultean to Syndra, before greeting them. "Wakanga O'tamu, at your service. Be welcome to my villa. Please, come on in."
When you enter the mansion, the first word that comes to your mind is "golden". Golden walls and a warm palette of colors are the first thing to greet your eyes, and you perceive a scent of oranges and black tea in the air. It looks like the inside of a palace: Jewelry-embroidered decorations, mirrors, a kinetic sculpture depicting what looks like a constelation...
There's a painting hanging on the wall to your left: A colorful portrait of a female wood elf wearing a turquoise dress and holding a bouquet of white carnations. Her hair is as white as the flowers.
"Syndra, please sit down" Wakanga says, leading her to a royal sofa. Then he turns towards Zyanya and the rest. "If you really are going to do this, you'll need the best equipment we can find. The jungles aren't safe, you and your companions will need better gear..."
"...Is this your expedition now?" Syndra asks, amused. Then she addresses the group. "You already have your own weapons and plenty of talent, but to travel you'll need someone with the experience and knowledge needed to guide you through the jungle, as well as survival gear and a mount for when your feet and legs aren't enough. The Merchant Princes, like Wakanga here, can sell you all that and more. And I have the gold to pay them..."
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM