"The portal, yes." Grasalfan nods. "The cog is likely still inside of it somewhere. We can either dismantle it, or break the code on those tablets." He makes his way past the Portal Modron to inspect the tablets a bit more now that he has the time. He pulls a parchment and some chalk to take impressions of the symbols as well.
Having rested with the others and taking time to meditate, Koll feels much better. His near death experience of falling and being impaled inside the collapsing ship seems like ages ago, though it was only just that morning.With the massive machine seemingly defeated, he decides that Perrin doesn't need to have the spell gem anytime soon, especially since he seemed to not be in his right mind. They'll just have to wait and see what happens when the halfling paladin and Lera wake up from their torpor.
Koll briefly thinks that he might be able to help Singe and Grasalfan decipher the tablets, since he had such an easy time figuring out how to control the mechanical elephant. He knows, however, that it was just a fluke. He decides then to go outside and look out for any more danger. There were still many modrons out there. Would they be free from the evil influence of the now defunct portal modron?
Squeezing through the warped doorway, Koll uses the mechanical elephant to get onto the building's roof. He looks around the clearing and out into the jungle from his vantage point. All is quiet. For now.
Unable to help with either healing or the tablets, Dapple moves to the end of the entry passage and positions himself near the now-buckled doors. Unsure if or when the modrons that had moved off into the forest will return or not, he decides he's most useful keeping some sort of watch. Once Koll comes out, he'll move outside and watch from atop the elephant by the door while Koll moves to the roof and get a look in the other directions from higher up.
As Koll is watching from the rooftop of this odd building, he sees a bird land, peck at the rooftop a few times, then look up at him. It tweets, then flies off to land in the field near the jungle.
Woe continues her rest in the building, watching the two unconscious companions. She thinks ahead to the meeting she's going to have soon, and feels her strength is best spent preparing for that.
Grasalfan and Singe continue their research of the giant Portal Modron. They make little progress, but do note similarities between multiple runes on the tablets. If they could decipher even one of those, it would be a massive help. The Portal Modron itself still lies dormant, with no apparent entrance or service hatch. Multiple times during their studying Grasalfan offers, "We could just tear it apart..."
Three more hours pass before Perrins wakes. He opens his eyes sleepily, as if he's just run a marathon. His armor is in tatters - completely unusable - and his sword is gone. Frank... disappeared in the last radiant blast of energy when Perrin retook control.
"A bird!" Koll calls down to Dapple. "Did you see that bird - a little sparrow? That must be a good sign."
"What?" says the tabaxi. "Where? Yeah, that definitely has to be good!" Dapple looks around excitedly to see if he can find any other birds or signs of natural life. Dapple is able to spot a few more. Indeed, nature is already returning to this island.
Yawn. "Did we in? Wait. Why am I tied up? Where's Frank? What's going on here?" Perrin asks wiggling at his bindings a little bit.
Singe looks up from his notes and walks over to the bound Perrin. "You were possessed by something, I don't know what."
Zamar adds, “You were threatening Dapple and Lera...”
"Yes, obviously something more interested in upholding law than anything else... And snake like?" Singe adds
“I know. Frank has been talking to me and protecting me for a while. He was shielding me from the portal modrons mental assault. I was tapped out and there was still more enemies coming so I let him in. He didn’t take control completely I could still see what was happening around me. I don’t know what it is though. I just know it’s not evil.” Perrin responds to the possession comment.
Singe shakes his head, "Please don't call it Frank."
“But that’s it’s name. Now, can I be untied.” Perrin says
"But Frank is also your boyfriend's name." Singe says as he unties Perrin, "How about we call it... Zidix?"
“I don’t know what that means but no the swords name is Frank. I told him, person Frank, that when I was a town guard they told us to name our swords after someone we cared about. Then our swords would always protect us and we’d always protect them. So, I named my Frank. That sword is more than a sword. It’s a symbol of me and Franks togetherness and my willingness to protect him. I can’t lose it.” Perrin explains as he rubs his sore wrists.
"You did, it vaporized. Something so obsessed with order should never symbolize something as chaotic as love." Singe states
“It. It did.” Perrin says a little saddened. “But it was going to help us. Help me. And. What will Frank think? I lost the item that symbolizes us.”
Singe looks sternly at Perrin, "Then why did it threaten to kill Lera? Was that going to help us?"
“I don’t know. I haven’t figured him all out yet. Honestly, he didn’t start talking to me until we were at the beach. I knew he didn’t like Lera but I thought it was because she tried to separate us.” Perrin admits
“It also didn’t like Dapple...” Zamar adds
"To be honest, the sword was worrying me as well, you kept talking about Frank and looking at the sword." Singe nods, "Zamar has a good point, it seems just to despise some."
“That’s not all he doesn’t like. I got a little insight into him. He also isn’t found of Woe or Shanolia. But, I didn’t think he would want to kill them. Unless something happened we don’t know about.” Perrin states.
Lera begins to stir.
Zamar jumps up and heads over. “Excuse me, Perrin. Singe, if you think it is safe you can untie him.”
Singe frowns, "It seemed to have a list and was going, to begin with, Lera."
Shanolia notices Lera beginning to stir. "Murderous boyfriend sword aside, I believe the girl is awakening."
Perrin let’s out a sigh and says “Regardless of the sword. I have other problems. Does anyone know where my shield went and, does anyone know how to fix armor?”
“Wha’ happened?” Lera said blearily, opening her eyes. “N’ why am I tied up?”
“It’s apparently the new thing to do when people pass out.” Perrin says.
"When people get possessed or disappear randomly, binding them just comes naturally." Shanolia shrugs.
Woe is looking at Perrin's armor. "Well, Perrin, there isn't much that can be done here. It's waaay too damaged - or let's put it differently - it's destroyed. It'll need a real forge!"
“Did someone else pass out and get tied up?” Lera asks
"Well, you disappeared and then reappeared with a gear branded onto your hand that was reminiscent of the portal modron. And while you were unconscious, you were giggling in a disconcerting manner. You were bound until we could figure out what happened to you. Perrin was also acting oddly. He threatened you and Dapple. Apparently, that was his sword.”
“So the person who was threatening to kill people got untied, but we don’t want to risk it with the girl who’s having a weird dream?” Lera raised an eyebrow. “I just popped into the Astral Plane, but I’m fine.”
"For the record; not my decision to untie him first." Shanolia mutters.
"It doesn't matter. Apparently Frank vaporized." Perrin says looking at the others.
"What happened in the Astral plane?" Singe asks.
“I floated around, Perrin looked like a glowing snake with wings, and then...” Lera furrows her brow. “I don’t remember what happened next. Then I woke up all tied up? I don’t know, but I’m fine it wasn’t a big deal.”
“What did you see while you were there? That brand came from somewhere. And if I know you, and I do, you found a way to touch something.” Zamar asks.
"I told you, I saw Perrin, but he was a snake with angel wings and these psychedelic patterns all over him. And there was a little cog where the Portal Modron was, but I didn't get a chance to touch it. I blacked out," Lera looks at the ground. "Honestly, I feel totally fine. I'm not the one who threatened to murder anyone."
"Look at your hand. Did the cog look like that?" Zamar asks, incredibly concerned, "And I am sure you feel fine, but I need to make sure the portal did not jump to you. The fact that you don't remember touching a thing that it seems obvious you touched is worrying."
"Huh, that's weird," Lera looks at her hand. "Yeah, the cog looked exactly like all cogs, so like my new tattoo?"
"It pains me to keep you bound, child, but until we can trust your answers, we have little choice." Zamar says.
"But I feel fine, dad!" Lera appears on the verge of tears. "And I didn't threaten to kill anyone. Perrin, did they give you this much trouble?"
"Let her go!" Polly yells. "Look... it's Lera!" Polly's weird wriggles in frustration.
"No...but I'm also armor-less and, wheres my other sword and dagger and shield?" Perrin asks.
"I'm not wearing any armor either." If Lera's arms weren't bound, she would be crossing them.
Zamar turns to Polly, "It a Lera, and it may also not be her. At least not in her right mind. We need to figure out what was done to her. How do you feel, by the way? I thought I saw you do some magic there..." As he waits for her answer, he asks Lera again, "Where did you get the tattoo?"
"I don't remember!" Lera insisted. "One second I was floating among the stars, and then the next I woke up and I was tied up."
Do you not find it odd that you disappeared, saw a gear, and reappeared with that on your hand?" Zamar asks.
"Yes?" Lera says hesitantly, unsure of what the correct answer is.
"What would you do if our places were reversed?" Zamar looks exasperated.
"Look, I know what it looks like. And I will admit, I was planning on touching the gear. But I blacked out before I got the chance," Lera replies. "Also, I'm mad that none of you trust me as much as Perrin. I told you I'm fine. I got knocked out in the Astral Plane, I never threatened to murder anyone or sold my soul to a weird sword."
Something speaks as you're all discussing, It comes from Woe's pack. "It is time."
Zamar turns and looks at Woe. "I think your alarm is going off." He smirks.
"And I don't have weird voices coming from my pack," Lera points out. "I'm like the least sketchy person right now."
"I didn't sell my soul to Frank! He chose me to help rid the world of evil." Perrin defends himself.
Shanolia's eyes quickly flick to the pack, then back to Woe. "What in the hells are you hiding from us?"
"Everyone's situation is different. Let's not turn on each other now. I think there has been enough chaos for one day." Zamar says.
"I'm just saying, I don't like being tied up and I think you're treating me way more harshly than everyone else." Lera quips.
Perrin also says out of spite "Also, Lera. I may have threatened to kill someone but I have never actually killed someone."
Woe coughs, then drinks some water. "It is time!" She says in her normal voice. "Just untie her already!!"
"Whatever, Perrin," Lera rolls her eyes.
Singe frowns, "I should have prepared detect thoughts."
Woe stands up. "As much as I can't stand Lera, I do think you're treating her unfairly. It is time to untie her. She is fine." Woe gestures to Lera and Perrin.
"What's in your backpack Woe?" Singe asks, his hair begins to dance sharply.
"There is nothing in my backpack. I tried to talk. But with all the exhaustion it just came out croaked." Woe starts to turn out her backpack. Her backpack contains anything anyone else's would, aside from a few luxury items.
Perrin uses this moment to slip away and into the room with the portal modron.
"Where is he going???" Woe points to Perrin leaving.
"Look!" Zamar snaps. "Perrin was possessed by a sword. There is no evidence on or around him of.the sword. And he remembers everything he did. Lera has a new tattoo that links to the thing that wanted to kill us. She claims no recollection. These are not equal. This is not an injustice."
"Perrin is being super sketchy and literally running away!" Lera shouts.
"Tymora save us!" Singe cries, "We will tear each other to pieces! In the morning, I can figure this out, but we all need to explain ourselves in the meantime!"
"I did!" Lera insisted. "Please, I just want to get out of these bonds. I promise I've told you all the truth. I just almost died, and being tied up is bringing up some memories I really don't want to dwell on right now."
"Yes, done!" Singe casts mage hand and unties the ropes.
Woe looks again at Lera. "Zamar, can I have a word please" She tries to lead him outside.
"Now, Perrin." Singe turns to the halfling trying to sneak away.
Lera runs up and hugs Singe as tightly as she can. "Thank you."
"Not now." Singe's hair is writhing.
"I'm just going to change out of my useless armor and into some clothes. I also want to talk to Grasalfan. I'm coming back or if you don't believe me then follow." Perrin says as he goes into the portal modrons room.
Lera lets go. "Sorry."
"What is it, Woe?" Zamar asks, not leaving.
Singe goes into the southern workshop and summons Barry. Lera curls up into a little ball on the ground. Polly holds tight to Lera, happy that she's alive and well. Lera hugs Polly back.
"I thought you died," Polly whimpers.
"Hey, it takes more than a little trip to a different plane of existence to keep me down," Lera strokes Polly's hair.
Grasalfan stops to look at Perrin, confused. "Weren't you.... tied??"
"Yeah. I've been untied and I've come in here to change out of my armor, ask you some question, and see how this old portal is doing." Perrin says as he begins changing into his common clothes.
"It's dead..." Grasalfan says, looking over towards Singe. As he says this, Polly squeezes tighter. A red light seems to radiate from them both as she does. "I'm glad...." she says, yawning.
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
"How are you doing, Pols?" Lera asked. "I feel like if anyone should be worried, it's me. You didn't look so hot not long ago."
"First, off do you have any spare armor. Mine seems to be destroyed and I feel like I'm naked without it?" Perrin asks
Woe gives Zamar a quick look. "Yes, stay with your daughter, she needs you right now." Then she finishes putting everything back in her backpack and walks outside. "I need some air."
"I'm fine," Polly says at the peak of her yawn. "I'm glad you're alive."
"Ummmm..." Grasalfan looks upon himself, "I have me own armor.."
"I'm glad I'm alive too," Lera smiled.
"That's fine. I don't want your armor I just wanted to know if you had any spare. Next question, how much longer do you think we're going to be on the island?" Perrin responds
Grasalfan shrugs in relation to Perrin's comment. "Days?" He asks.
Perrin sighs, "Okay? Ummm...final question; what do you know about weapons that talk to you and can temporarily take over your body?"
Grasalfan gestures for you to come closer. When you do, Perrin, he says, "They're unnerving."
"That's...that's...well its been a long day so I'll just be blunt, that's not helpful Grasalfan." Perrin says looking obviously tired.
Zamar sits with Polly and Lera. He doesn't say anything at first.
Grasalfan shrugs, "Yer the first I've seen."
"The Church of Yondalla isn't that big into research so, I'll ask you. Does the Hall of Wonders have people who specialize in this sort of thing?" Perrin asks
Finally, Zamar decides. "I trust you. I do not trust IT. And if it is messing with you in any way, I will make sure it regrets coming to this plane." He exhales. "Do you still want to be an adventurer? We both almost died more than once today. I don't know about you, but that is something I have not experienced in the last seventeen years."
Grasalfan nods, as if being held hostage, "I'm sure... I mean, yes, of course, they do."
Perrin looks at him and seeing the uneasiness just says "Thanks." Before leaving out back into the main area and announces to Zamar in there. "Since I get the feeling I'm not trusted and perhaps feared I'm going to the end of the hallway where we exited the underground from. I'll be there praying if you need me or want to check to make sure I'm not going crazy."
"You're fine. I think we are at the point where we need to just trust each other and hope for the best."
Shanolia watches as Perrin exits the room, before stepping from the shadows behind Grasalfan. "Oi, Gras. Got a minute?" (23 Stealth to be hidden from us)
Grasalfan jumps, "Uh... yes. Of course!"
She pulls the obsidian dagger from the scabbard at her waist and holds it up. "I was wondering if you'd be willing to have a look at this blade I found."
"Of course!" He responds, pulling a small pearl from his pouch. "Let us see what I can find."
She hands him the dagger and watches carefully as he inspects it.
Grasalfan prepares the ritual of identification.... not a minute into it, his pearl shatters.
Shanolia cocks her head to the side, confused.
Grasalfan gulps, "Perhaps..." he says, "Perhaps we should save this for another day..." He hands the dagger back to Shanolia.
She takes the dagger and slides it back into the scabbard. "What just happened?"
“I do, dad,” Lera nodded. “I really do.”
"Not anything good," Grasalfan responds. "I suggest... tossing it?"
"Afraid I'll turn into a holy snake?" She chuckles, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I assure you; all that's holy has turned its back on me already."
"Afraid I'll turn into a holy snake?"Shanolia chuckles, placing a hand on Grasalfan's shoulder."I assure you; all that's holy has turned its back on me already."He doesn't look assured, so she moves her hand. "I'm gonna go meditate for a bit. Come get me if anything interesting happens."
As Shanolia exits the room with Grasalfan and the portal Modron, a sudden thought crosses her mind; Polly's spellbook is still in her cloak! With a sigh, she walks over to Polly and pulls out the pages of the spellbook - except for the one with Singe's handwriting - and holds them up. "Plenytn, I believe these belong to you?"
After keeping watch from atop the building for an hour or so, Koll deems that everything is safe and that the island is returning to normal. He goes back inside the building and shares with the others the good news about seeing birds. "Animal life has returned and the natural balance is being restored. I see no danger out there from returning modrons or anything like that."
He then recounts, for those who weren't there, what happened on the ship. He tells Singe how the busy little modron traded a magical spell gem for a length of rope and the magical glass staff for Koll's wooden tonfa. "But the ship was like a house of cards. It came tumbling down with us inside. I tried to save Woe, but she ended up saving me. I nearly died. Still, I'd kinda like to go back there and see how Drony is getting on. Maybe bring him some salvaged material."
He goes on to recount how they found the clearing and had figured out that the others had gone inside the building. With a subdued sense of pride he tells them how he took control of the mechanical elephant and destroyed the two mechanical gorillas. Then they all rushed in to help the others, but it was all over so quickly.
"Here, Perrin," says Koll, handing the halfling the jade spell gem. "I wasn't sure if you were in your right mind, but you seem all right now. This gem has a powerful spell inside that it seems only a holy warrior like you would be able to use. It might not make up for the loss of your sword, but it's something at least."
“Thank you Koll. I’m glad to see that my previous actions hasn’t lost me all the trust I’ve gained from everyone. And I do feel better. I just needed some time and space to prays. After telling Yondalla that I was using Frank to protect everyone, the same way anyone uses a sword to protect someone, I feel a little better. Frank, he isn’t evil. He is just extreme but I believe I can help channel that extreme power without killing everything that is chaotic.” Perrin tells Koll with a slight smile but, it isn’t as big as it was in the past.
“No. Not physically anymore. But, I know that if we’re ever facing great trouble I can call upon him again.” Perrin says, deciding that lying about it won’t do him any good.
Polly, still sitting near Lera, perked up at the mention of her name. "Oh! My spellbook!" She took them and quickly glanced over them. "There's a page missing," she said, sadly.
Shanolia sighs, reaching into the pocket of her cloak and pulling out the last page. "The handwriting was different, so I was unsure if it was yours. My apologies." She hands her the page.
"Different?" Polly took the page and inspected the handwriting. She read the note, then glanced up at Singe, then read the note a second time. As she sits there reading the note, she begins to weep.
Shanolia quickly leans down towards Polly. "Is everything alright, Plentyn?"
Polly hands the note to her, and she quickly glances over it;
“Polly, I know you're going to be reading this when you're still angry, still upset at me. That's fine it's ok, it's understandable. This is not me trying to make up. This is me telling you what I know. You are the most magically talented person I have ever met. This is not an understatement. You replicated two spells perfectly yesterday only after seeing it once. No wizard has ever demonstrated that skill. This would be bizarre if you were a wizard, but you're not a wizard. And you will probably never be a full wizard. Yes, you may learn some of my magic, like fire bolt or mage hand, but you aren't a wizard. You're a sorcerer. I can see the magic around you. You radiate it. You might not feel or wield the magic now, but eventually you will control your magic. I would like to help you. If you're still angry at me, I want you to know that I wanted you to come but you MUST listen to your body. If you're legs feel funny, DO NOT go running around in a dungeon. Especially as you are a sorcerer, your magic comes from you, the more you try to exert your body, the closer to death you get. We'll go over what you learned yesterday when I get back. -Singe”
Shanolia inhales deeply, mentally kicking herself for not reading this before despite feeling that it was none of her business. "I see." She hugs Polly, letting her cry without having to say anything.
Polly sniffled, crying into her shoulder. "I was so mad at him. But I'm like Lera." She glances over at Lera. "I... don't want to kill anyone.."
"Lera was just trying to protect you. We were lied to, and she lost her temper. If you'd like, Koll and I could teach you both how to meditate? That way neither of you has to worry in the future."
Polly nods. "Okay." She takes the page from her. "What does he mean that I'm the most magically talented person he's met? He's more powerful than me. So is Lera. All of you are."
"You are young, you've yet to reach your full potential. In the years to come, you will surpass even Singe in magical ability; but only if you listen to your teachers, and most importantly listen to your body. And a little secret between you and me..." Shanolia leans in and whispers in the young girl's ear. "I had an unfair advantage to get my magic."
"What do you mean?" Polly asked curiously.
"My mother was a very powerful wizard, and she taught me my spells. I stopped practising magic for a bit after my sister passed away, but I'm starting to get back into it. Will you help me learn again?"
"I-I'm not a wizard," Polly said, sadly. "I don't know how to teach magic. I don't even know how I learned it to begin with."
"You don't need to learn magic, Plentyn. That is what's so great about being a sorceress; it was inside you all along. You only need to learn how to make use of it. I know you are not a wizard, and I will not try to teach you anymore, but I would love to have you by my side as I learn to use magic once more."
"Okay," Polly said, nodding. "As long as I'm allowed to, anyway. I'm probably going to get into a lot of trouble for running away."
"Right, I forgot about that..." Shanolia ruffles her hair. "Running away was very dangerous, but in the end, you fought beside us like a true adventurer. I cannot guarantee you will not be punished, but I will be there to tell your brother how much help you truly were."
"Really?" Polly asked, surprised. "I thought nobody really wanted me here."
"Nonsense, Plentyn!" She pulls Polly closer. "We all want you here, and we are all very proud of you. We were just scared that something might happen and you might not trust us to keep you safe anymore."
"Why wouldn't I trust you?" Polly looks at the Elf, confused. "Because of that guy who wanted to take me?"
"If you got hurt, we were afraid you would blame us- at least, that was my excuse. I see now that you are not like that, and you are more than capable in your own right."
"I'm sorry I made everyone worry," Polly said, looking away. "I'll try to be... better."
"You don't have to try to be anything, Plentyn. The problem was how we were looking at the situation. Just keep being you."
"Okay," Polly said, brightening once again.
"I have to meditate now, but I'll be right over there if you need me, okay?" She gestures towards a corner nearby.
Polly nods then turns her attention back to Lera.
Shanolia ruffles her hair once more, before walking over to the corner and pulling out the obsidian dagger to meditate and figure out what it's deal was.
Nightfall comes quick. The sun begins to dip into the mountainous area around the island and darkness starts to set in. Both Singe and Grasalfan continue their research, only occasionally interrupted by members of the party as they do. The quiet of the jungle starts to be replaced, and at one point Dapple thinks he sees a mosquito. Life is, indeed, returning to this island. There's still no word from any of the modrons that went out into the jungle to hunt, and this makes everyone wonder what might have befallen them.
Woe walks over to Zamar again. She lightly touches his arm. He looks worried, and it takes a little time for him to react to being spoken to. "Zamar, I would like to talk to you. In private, please. It is important."
Woe also signals Koll, that she would like him to join the conversation and to walk outside with Zamar and her. When Koll joins them, Woe asks him. "What does the roof look like? Is it flat?"
Zamar nods. “One moment, Woe.” Zamar turns to Polly. “Can you keep an eye on Lera for me? I need to talk to Woe for a bit. If anything strange happens, please come find me?”
"Okay," Polly said, still staring at Lera.
“Thank you.” He turns and follows Woe out.
Outside, Woe turns to Zamar. "I can see that you don't want to leave Lera right now. I am quite sure she is fine, even if maybe she is not saying the truth in everything. She probably doesn't want to frighten you with what happened. So I'll let you get back to her as quickly as possible. Here's the thing. Lord Eltan asked me to meet with him in the drug-induced world to discuss what happened. So, I am going in and I am going to find out who betrayed us and what is happening. Koll knows, he'll check on me. Now, I'll need the drug parcels from you, please. Thank you for keeping them safe. Also, if you could bless me for this adventure, I would be grateful. It means a lot to me to know you support what I am about to do."
“If you think it is wise, then I trust you. I am not sure this is wise given the physical toll it took on you, but I do not see an alternative.” Zamar reaches into his tunic and pulls out the parcels of drugs. He hands them to her, winking as he does so. “Blessing granted.” As he says this, he takes out his Lyre and sings, “Woe, Woe, Woe, Woe. Protecting your mind. Woe, Woe, Woe. Resolve you will find.” The music is odd, but reassuring. When he is done, he pauses. He puts his hand on her shoulder. “I know that trust is at a premium on the team right now, but I trust you. Be safe."
"Thank you, Zamar, you're a true friend. I know I haven't been sharing everything with the group. But you and Koll know as much as I do. I hope to be able to find out the truth now. Then I will share it with the group." Woe smiles and nods at Zamar again. Then spontaneously hugs him.
“I know you would not endanger the team or Polly. I don’t know that Lord Eltan was the culprit, but I don’t know that he wasn’t. His word will likely not be enough for the rest, though. He has earned your faith through blood and deed. We need a way for him to earn the rest of ours.”
Woe answers: "I pushed him to meet only at night fall, not earlier - as now I have replenished my magic energy. I have been able to practice a new spell recently. If I have the feeling that he is not speaking the truth, I will use it. Under this spell, you cannot speak a lie. I hope it will all work out."
Then she turns to Koll. "It's time now. Do you think the roof is a secure and hidden place to take the 'spice'? If yes, let's set up there. I am not sure Zamar wants to stay. He is worried about Lera. How should we go about it?"
“I have Polly watching over her. I would keep watch over you if you would have me. I am not sure I can help if something goes wrong, but I can stand by just in case.”
"I would like that! Thank you!" Woe states simply.
“What did you and Shanolia talk about?” Lera asked Polly as soon as her father was out of sight.
Polly looks away. "About how I'm not a wizard."
“Yeah, that must have been really disappointing for you. I know how much you look up to Singe.”
"But... I'm like you, Lera." Polly looks up and smiles, weakly. "That means I don't have to study."
“Studying is boring, I was always rubbish at it.”
"Yeah, adventuring is much more fun." Polly keeps looking up at you, as if she wants to say something.
“Life is short, Pols,” Lera gave Polly a wink. “If you have something to say, say it.”
"I..." Polly begins, looking very sad. She moves closer to you and says, in a near whisper, "I... don't want to kill anyone."
“It isn’t the worst thing you can do.”
Polly looks at you, scared. "What's the worst I could do?"
“Torture is pretty bad, so is slavery... Really, the list goes on and on.”
Polly shrank away, slightly. "But, I'd never do that!"
“Sometimes killing can’t be avoided.”
"If... if I'm defending myself..." Polly looked up at Lera, warily. "But... you... you just killed that man. He didn't do anything. Was that because you can't control your magic? Does that mean I can't either?"
“We are two different kinds of sorcerers, Pols. My power comes from the wild magic that is all around us. Your's comes from the Gods. You’re going to have different problems than I am, learning how to use your magic.”
"The... Gods?" Polly pondered this a moment, confused. "What does that mean? I don't understand."
“Magic is often referred to as The Weave. When I look at it, I see threads of power all tangled up. With me, it’s hard to see where the outside threads end and mine begin. My magic is a tangle, and often when I pull a thread, it’s knotted with others that come along for the ride. When I look at Singe, I see the wild tangle becoming organized as it passes through his focus. He isn’t a source of threads; he knows how to untangle them. But you, you don’t look like either of us. You have threads that come from within you, but they are bright and made of light, like Perrin’s. I don’t know what that means, but I think your magic is Divine.”
"Who can help then?" Polly looks around at the various party members, noting those who are not present.
“Everyone wants to help you Pols, it’s up to you to figure out who you want,” Lera drew pictures in the dirt. “Just... make sure that whoever does teach you remembers what you are. You are a sorcerer, Polly. Your problems from before came from Singe trying to shove a round peg into a square hole.”
Polly began to look distraught. "I'm so confused by all this."
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you.”
"I don't want to lose control and kill someone," Polly said quietly. "I don't know what to do."
“Losing control and killing someone are two different issues, don’t confuse the two,” Lera frowned. “You’re also not me.”
"I..." Polly said, softly once again. "I don't know what I am."
“Well that’s for you to figure out then, isn’t it?”
"I guess," Polly said, still looking somewhat distraught.
“What you are is a divine sorcerer, whatever that means,” Lera attempted to comfort Polly. “But who you are isn’t defined by magic or anything else. That is entirely up to you. You get to define your story, and if you’re not sure yet that’s alright.”
"Okay," Polly said, doubtful.
“If you don’t believe me, why don’t you ask someone older and wiser.”
Polly frowned. "I just thought I was supposed to be taught by someone. But everyone's saying nobody can teach me."
“No, that’s not what we mean,” Lera shook her head. “You can still have your pick of who you want to teach you. For Singe, all of his magic comes from the learning, but for you it’s different, so he’s having a hard time grasping what to do. Because your magic is innate, whether you learn spells or not, it’s still going to be there. With me, my dad tried his best to teach me. He taught me how magic works, certain spells and what they can do, that sort of thing. Whether he had tried to teach me or not, I still would have been able to cast spells, but because of him I’m a better, more diverse, and more controlled spellcaster.”
"Well, then," Polly said, coming to a decision. "I want all of you to teach me."
“You’re not worried about too many cooks in the kitchen?” Lera raised an eyebrow. “Or becoming exhausted again?
"I don't want to be like Singe." Polly looked up to Lera, a glint in her eyes. "I want to be like all of you! I'll go slow this time, I promise."
“I’m not worried about you being careful, I’m worried about us,” Lera laughed. “What if I make you train right after Singe tired you out?”
Polly thinks a moment. "Only one trainer a day," she says as if she has it all figured out.
“You just have to listen to your body, Pols. Promise me you won’t push it?”
"I promise. If I feel weird, I'll stop." Polly smiled up to Lera. "Does that mean you'll help me?"
“If you want me to, Pols.”
"W-we're friends... r-right?"
“I hope you still think of me as a friend.”
"You're my first friend, Lera." Polly hesitated, then took her hand. "I'm just scared... that I'll lose control like you did."
“I’m sorry I scared you.”
"Are you okay?" Polly asked, concerned. "You were out for a long time."
“I think so, yeah,” Lera shrugged. “I got hit really hard with one of those mind blasts.”
"I...thought you died."
“Oh, Pols, it’ll take more than that to knock me down for good," Lera said confidently. Polly smiles and leaps at Lera, giving her a hug.
A few minutes went by before Lera stood up and left the building. She was getting itchy just sitting there. Her whole body was sore from the battle earlier, but she wanted to be helpful. She walked around the building, finally finding a wall that appeared suitable to her. Lera cast mold earth, lifting a perfect cube of sand from the ground and depositing it on the ground next to the whole.
Polly followed along inquired, "Lera? What are you doing?"
"Digging a hole," Lera says, grunting as another block of dirt comes out of the ground.
Polly watched for a few moments. "Why?"
"Because I think it would be a good hiding spot and a safe space to sleep," another block of sand excavated. Lera was moving along the entire wall, methodically digging a giant hole.
Hearing the earth move outside Perrin goes to investigate it and finds Lera “digging”. “Why are you moving the earth?” He asks.
"Because I'm digging a hole?" Lera raised an eyebrow. "Come on, Perrin, keep up."
Perrin rolls his eyes “I know that but why do you need a hole? What are planning on doing with it?”
"I think I can make a nice hidey-hole for us to sleep in," Lera smiled. "I'll cover it with palms, and then sprinkle sand on top of the palms so that it looks like it's just normal ground."
Perrin gives Lera a look like this might be a little weird but decides not to push that forward. “Can I help? I have a shovel to dig with. I just need to do something physical. I’ve never been good at just waiting around.”
"It's not weird, it's going to work," Lera grumbled. "Would you mind gathering palm fronds for me? I've got a handle on the digging at the moment." To show him, the aasimar waved around the clump of dirt she had suspended in the air before depositing along the perimeter. "Oh! And vines," she added as an afterthought. "I also need vines."
“On it.” Perrin says before making sure he has his weapons and shields and heads to into the jungle to gather what was requested. He makes sure not to go too far though in case something happens.
After Perrin returns with the building materials, Lera began to weave a giant net out of the vines. "I'm sorry I lashed out at you earlier," she apologized to Perrin. "I was mad that nobody trusted me. I hate being tied up."
“I understand. I’m sorry for bringing up the Captain incident. It was a low blow and I too was angry at everyone not trusting me.” Perrin responds.
"You don't feel like killing me anymore, right?"
“No. I’ve had some time to reflect and pray. Plus, I’d never let anything kill you. I don’t think Polly would forgive me if I did.” Perrin says
Polly nods vigorously.
"And because I'm wonderful company and you'd miss me?"
“Shhh. That’s a secret.” Perrin says playfully as he puts a finger up to his lips.
Lera smiled and hummed a little to herself. "I knew it."
Koll shows Zamar and Woe up on to the rooftop to a suitable place. "I will come in after you if it seems you are in trouble."
Woe breathes in and out deeply a few times...."Ok, let's do this." She sits down in a comfortable position. "I am not sure if I'll be able to signal you, but I will try. Any tips?" She looks at the two men.
"Just be confident," Koll offers.
"Ok, here we go." Woe pulls out her pipe and fills it. Then she uses the tinderbox to light it. She stretches out her spine, takes on a confident posture, looks out over the forest, then says: "I can do this. I will find out the truth." Then she takes a couple of deep drags from the pipe.
Woe falls to the side, small wisps of the strange substance floating up from her nostrils. Koll catches her and lays her down gently. Her eyes are still open and she has stopped breathing completely. Suddenly she takes in a breath of air, as if unintentional and forced. She continues this way as she remains in her dream-state.
Koll watches her intently, looking for any sign of distress and ready to inhale the drug should he need to. Sh moves slightly, her mouth making wordless movement and her fingers twitching, but there's no sign yet of danger, so Koll believes.
"The portal, yes." Grasalfan nods. "The cog is likely still inside of it somewhere. We can either dismantle it, or break the code on those tablets." He makes his way past the Portal Modron to inspect the tablets a bit more now that he has the time. He pulls a parchment and some chalk to take impressions of the symbols as well.
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Having rested with the others and taking time to meditate, Koll feels much better. His near death experience of falling and being impaled inside the collapsing ship seems like ages ago, though it was only just that morning.With the massive machine seemingly defeated, he decides that Perrin doesn't need to have the spell gem anytime soon, especially since he seemed to not be in his right mind. They'll just have to wait and see what happens when the halfling paladin and Lera wake up from their torpor.
Koll briefly thinks that he might be able to help Singe and Grasalfan decipher the tablets, since he had such an easy time figuring out how to control the mechanical elephant. He knows, however, that it was just a fluke. He decides then to go outside and look out for any more danger. There were still many modrons out there. Would they be free from the evil influence of the now defunct portal modron?
Squeezing through the warped doorway, Koll uses the mechanical elephant to get onto the building's roof. He looks around the clearing and out into the jungle from his vantage point. All is quiet. For now.
Unable to help with either healing or the tablets, Dapple moves to the end of the entry passage and positions himself near the now-buckled doors. Unsure if or when the modrons that had moved off into the forest will return or not, he decides he's most useful keeping some sort of watch. Once Koll comes out, he'll move outside and watch from atop the elephant by the door while Koll moves to the roof and get a look in the other directions from higher up.
As Koll is watching from the rooftop of this odd building, he sees a bird land, peck at the rooftop a few times, then look up at him. It tweets, then flies off to land in the field near the jungle.
Woe continues her rest in the building, watching the two unconscious companions. She thinks ahead to the meeting she's going to have soon, and feels her strength is best spent preparing for that.
Grasalfan and Singe continue their research of the giant Portal Modron. They make little progress, but do note similarities between multiple runes on the tablets. If they could decipher even one of those, it would be a massive help. The Portal Modron itself still lies dormant, with no apparent entrance or service hatch. Multiple times during their studying Grasalfan offers, "We could just tear it apart..."
Three more hours pass before Perrins wakes. He opens his eyes sleepily, as if he's just run a marathon. His armor is in tatters - completely unusable - and his sword is gone. Frank... disappeared in the last radiant blast of energy when Perrin retook control.
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"A bird!" Koll calls down to Dapple. "Did you see that bird - a little sparrow? That must be a good sign."
"What?" says the tabaxi. "Where? Yeah, that definitely has to be good!" Dapple looks around excitedly to see if he can find any other birds or signs of natural life. Dapple is able to spot a few more. Indeed, nature is already returning to this island.
Yawn. "Did we in? Wait. Why am I tied up? Where's Frank? What's going on here?" Perrin asks wiggling at his bindings a little bit.
Singe looks up from his notes and walks over to the bound Perrin. "You were possessed by something, I don't know what."
Zamar adds, “You were threatening Dapple and Lera...”
"Yes, obviously something more interested in upholding law than anything else... And snake like?" Singe adds
“I know. Frank has been talking to me and protecting me for a while. He was shielding me from the portal modrons mental assault. I was tapped out and there was still more enemies coming so I let him in. He didn’t take control completely I could still see what was happening around me. I don’t know what it is though. I just know it’s not evil.” Perrin responds to the possession comment.
Singe shakes his head, "Please don't call it Frank."
“But that’s it’s name. Now, can I be untied.” Perrin says
"But Frank is also your boyfriend's name." Singe says as he unties Perrin, "How about we call it... Zidix?"
“I don’t know what that means but no the swords name is Frank. I told him, person Frank, that when I was a town guard they told us to name our swords after someone we cared about. Then our swords would always protect us and we’d always protect them. So, I named my Frank. That sword is more than a sword. It’s a symbol of me and Franks togetherness and my willingness to protect him. I can’t lose it.” Perrin explains as he rubs his sore wrists.
"You did, it vaporized. Something so obsessed with order should never symbolize something as chaotic as love." Singe states
“It. It did.” Perrin says a little saddened. “But it was going to help us. Help me. And. What will Frank think? I lost the item that symbolizes us.”
Singe looks sternly at Perrin, "Then why did it threaten to kill Lera? Was that going to help us?"
“I don’t know. I haven’t figured him all out yet. Honestly, he didn’t start talking to me until we were at the beach. I knew he didn’t like Lera but I thought it was because she tried to separate us.” Perrin admits
“It also didn’t like Dapple...” Zamar adds
"To be honest, the sword was worrying me as well, you kept talking about Frank and looking at the sword." Singe nods, "Zamar has a good point, it seems just to despise some."
“That’s not all he doesn’t like. I got a little insight into him. He also isn’t found of Woe or Shanolia. But, I didn’t think he would want to kill them. Unless something happened we don’t know about.” Perrin states.
Lera begins to stir.
Zamar jumps up and heads over. “Excuse me, Perrin. Singe, if you think it is safe you can untie him.”
Singe frowns, "It seemed to have a list and was going, to begin with, Lera."
Shanolia notices Lera beginning to stir. "Murderous boyfriend sword aside, I believe the girl is awakening."
Perrin let’s out a sigh and says “Regardless of the sword. I have other problems. Does anyone know where my shield went and, does anyone know how to fix armor?”
“Wha’ happened?” Lera said blearily, opening her eyes. “N’ why am I tied up?”
“It’s apparently the new thing to do when people pass out.” Perrin says.
"When people get possessed or disappear randomly, binding them just comes naturally." Shanolia shrugs.
Woe is looking at Perrin's armor. "Well, Perrin, there isn't much that can be done here. It's waaay too damaged - or let's put it differently - it's destroyed. It'll need a real forge!"
“Did someone else pass out and get tied up?” Lera asks
"Well, you disappeared and then reappeared with a gear branded onto your hand that was reminiscent of the portal modron. And while you were unconscious, you were giggling in a disconcerting manner. You were bound until we could figure out what happened to you. Perrin was also acting oddly. He threatened you and Dapple. Apparently, that was his sword.”
“So the person who was threatening to kill people got untied, but we don’t want to risk it with the girl who’s having a weird dream?” Lera raised an eyebrow. “I just popped into the Astral Plane, but I’m fine.”
"For the record; not my decision to untie him first." Shanolia mutters.
"It doesn't matter. Apparently Frank vaporized." Perrin says looking at the others.
"What happened in the Astral plane?" Singe asks.
“I floated around, Perrin looked like a glowing snake with wings, and then...” Lera furrows her brow. “I don’t remember what happened next. Then I woke up all tied up? I don’t know, but I’m fine it wasn’t a big deal.”
“What did you see while you were there? That brand came from somewhere. And if I know you, and I do, you found a way to touch something.” Zamar asks.
"I told you, I saw Perrin, but he was a snake with angel wings and these psychedelic patterns all over him. And there was a little cog where the Portal Modron was, but I didn't get a chance to touch it. I blacked out," Lera looks at the ground. "Honestly, I feel totally fine. I'm not the one who threatened to murder anyone."
"Look at your hand. Did the cog look like that?" Zamar asks, incredibly concerned, "And I am sure you feel fine, but I need to make sure the portal did not jump to you. The fact that you don't remember touching a thing that it seems obvious you touched is worrying."
"Huh, that's weird," Lera looks at her hand. "Yeah, the cog looked exactly like all cogs, so like my new tattoo?"
"It pains me to keep you bound, child, but until we can trust your answers, we have little choice." Zamar says.
"But I feel fine, dad!" Lera appears on the verge of tears. "And I didn't threaten to kill anyone. Perrin, did they give you this much trouble?"
"Let her go!" Polly yells. "Look... it's Lera!" Polly's weird wriggles in frustration.
"No...but I'm also armor-less and, wheres my other sword and dagger and shield?" Perrin asks.
"I'm not wearing any armor either." If Lera's arms weren't bound, she would be crossing them.
Zamar turns to Polly, "It a Lera, and it may also not be her. At least not in her right mind. We need to figure out what was done to her. How do you feel, by the way? I thought I saw you do some magic there..." As he waits for her answer, he asks Lera again, "Where did you get the tattoo?"
"I don't remember!" Lera insisted. "One second I was floating among the stars, and then the next I woke up and I was tied up."
Do you not find it odd that you disappeared, saw a gear, and reappeared with that on your hand?" Zamar asks.
"Yes?" Lera says hesitantly, unsure of what the correct answer is.
"What would you do if our places were reversed?" Zamar looks exasperated.
"Look, I know what it looks like. And I will admit, I was planning on touching the gear. But I blacked out before I got the chance," Lera replies. "Also, I'm mad that none of you trust me as much as Perrin. I told you I'm fine. I got knocked out in the Astral Plane, I never threatened to murder anyone or sold my soul to a weird sword."
Something speaks as you're all discussing, It comes from Woe's pack. "It is time."
Zamar turns and looks at Woe. "I think your alarm is going off." He smirks.
"And I don't have weird voices coming from my pack," Lera points out. "I'm like the least sketchy person right now."
"I didn't sell my soul to Frank! He chose me to help rid the world of evil." Perrin defends himself.
Shanolia's eyes quickly flick to the pack, then back to Woe. "What in the hells are you hiding from us?"
"Everyone's situation is different. Let's not turn on each other now. I think there has been enough chaos for one day." Zamar says.
"I'm just saying, I don't like being tied up and I think you're treating me way more harshly than everyone else." Lera quips.
Perrin also says out of spite "Also, Lera. I may have threatened to kill someone but I have never actually killed someone."
Woe coughs, then drinks some water. "It is time!" She says in her normal voice. "Just untie her already!!"
"Whatever, Perrin," Lera rolls her eyes.
Singe frowns, "I should have prepared detect thoughts."
Woe stands up. "As much as I can't stand Lera, I do think you're treating her unfairly. It is time to untie her. She is fine." Woe gestures to Lera and Perrin.
"What's in your backpack Woe?" Singe asks, his hair begins to dance sharply.
"There is nothing in my backpack. I tried to talk. But with all the exhaustion it just came out croaked." Woe starts to turn out her backpack. Her backpack contains anything anyone else's would, aside from a few luxury items.
Perrin uses this moment to slip away and into the room with the portal modron.
"Where is he going???" Woe points to Perrin leaving.
"Look!" Zamar snaps. "Perrin was possessed by a sword. There is no evidence on or around him of.the sword. And he remembers everything he did. Lera has a new tattoo that links to the thing that wanted to kill us. She claims no recollection. These are not equal. This is not an injustice."
"Perrin is being super sketchy and literally running away!" Lera shouts.
"Tymora save us!" Singe cries, "We will tear each other to pieces! In the morning, I can figure this out, but we all need to explain ourselves in the meantime!"
"I did!" Lera insisted. "Please, I just want to get out of these bonds. I promise I've told you all the truth. I just almost died, and being tied up is bringing up some memories I really don't want to dwell on right now."
"Yes, done!" Singe casts mage hand and unties the ropes.
Woe looks again at Lera. "Zamar, can I have a word please" She tries to lead him outside.
"Now, Perrin." Singe turns to the halfling trying to sneak away.
Lera runs up and hugs Singe as tightly as she can. "Thank you."
"Not now." Singe's hair is writhing.
"I'm just going to change out of my useless armor and into some clothes. I also want to talk to Grasalfan. I'm coming back or if you don't believe me then follow." Perrin says as he goes into the portal modrons room.
Lera lets go. "Sorry."
"What is it, Woe?" Zamar asks, not leaving.
Singe goes into the southern workshop and summons Barry. Lera curls up into a little ball on the ground. Polly holds tight to Lera, happy that she's alive and well. Lera hugs Polly back.
"I thought you died," Polly whimpers.
"Hey, it takes more than a little trip to a different plane of existence to keep me down," Lera strokes Polly's hair.
Grasalfan stops to look at Perrin, confused. "Weren't you.... tied??"
"Yeah. I've been untied and I've come in here to change out of my armor, ask you some question, and see how this old portal is doing." Perrin says as he begins changing into his common clothes.
"It's dead..." Grasalfan says, looking over towards Singe. As he says this, Polly squeezes tighter. A red light seems to radiate from them both as she does. "I'm glad...." she says, yawning.
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Astromancer's Homebrew Assembly
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
"How are you doing, Pols?" Lera asked. "I feel like if anyone should be worried, it's me. You didn't look so hot not long ago."
"First, off do you have any spare armor. Mine seems to be destroyed and I feel like I'm naked without it?" Perrin asks
Woe gives Zamar a quick look. "Yes, stay with your daughter, she needs you right now." Then she finishes putting everything back in her backpack and walks outside. "I need some air."
"I'm fine," Polly says at the peak of her yawn. "I'm glad you're alive."
"Ummmm..." Grasalfan looks upon himself, "I have me own armor.."
"I'm glad I'm alive too," Lera smiled.
"That's fine. I don't want your armor I just wanted to know if you had any spare. Next question, how much longer do you think we're going to be on the island?" Perrin responds
Grasalfan shrugs in relation to Perrin's comment. "Days?" He asks.
Perrin sighs, "Okay? Ummm...final question; what do you know about weapons that talk to you and can temporarily take over your body?"
Grasalfan gestures for you to come closer. When you do, Perrin, he says, "They're unnerving."
"That's...that's...well its been a long day so I'll just be blunt, that's not helpful Grasalfan." Perrin says looking obviously tired.
Zamar sits with Polly and Lera. He doesn't say anything at first.
Grasalfan shrugs, "Yer the first I've seen."
"The Church of Yondalla isn't that big into research so, I'll ask you. Does the Hall of Wonders have people who specialize in this sort of thing?" Perrin asks
Finally, Zamar decides. "I trust you. I do not trust IT. And if it is messing with you in any way, I will make sure it regrets coming to this plane." He exhales. "Do you still want to be an adventurer? We both almost died more than once today. I don't know about you, but that is something I have not experienced in the last seventeen years."
Grasalfan nods, as if being held hostage, "I'm sure... I mean, yes, of course, they do."
Perrin looks at him and seeing the uneasiness just says "Thanks." Before leaving out back into the main area and announces to Zamar in there. "Since I get the feeling I'm not trusted and perhaps feared I'm going to the end of the hallway where we exited the underground from. I'll be there praying if you need me or want to check to make sure I'm not going crazy."
"You're fine. I think we are at the point where we need to just trust each other and hope for the best."
Shanolia watches as Perrin exits the room, before stepping from the shadows behind Grasalfan. "Oi, Gras. Got a minute?" (23 Stealth to be hidden from us)
Grasalfan jumps, "Uh... yes. Of course!"
She pulls the obsidian dagger from the scabbard at her waist and holds it up. "I was wondering if you'd be willing to have a look at this blade I found."
"Of course!" He responds, pulling a small pearl from his pouch. "Let us see what I can find."
She hands him the dagger and watches carefully as he inspects it.
Grasalfan prepares the ritual of identification.... not a minute into it, his pearl shatters.
Shanolia cocks her head to the side, confused.
Grasalfan gulps, "Perhaps..." he says, "Perhaps we should save this for another day..." He hands the dagger back to Shanolia.
She takes the dagger and slides it back into the scabbard. "What just happened?"
“I do, dad,” Lera nodded. “I really do.”
"Not anything good," Grasalfan responds. "I suggest... tossing it?"
"Afraid I'll turn into a holy snake?" She chuckles, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I assure you; all that's holy has turned its back on me already."
He doesn't look assured....
Outside, Woe hides under the rim of the building and walks around it, trying to stay out of Dapple's and Koll's sight.
Then she whispers into the stone. "Nightfall. We'll meet at nightfall. I don't have the Thraul yet."
"Afraid I'll turn into a holy snake?" Shanolia chuckles, placing a hand on Grasalfan's shoulder. "I assure you; all that's holy has turned its back on me already." He doesn't look assured, so she moves her hand. "I'm gonna go meditate for a bit. Come get me if anything interesting happens."
As Shanolia exits the room with Grasalfan and the portal Modron, a sudden thought crosses her mind; Polly's spellbook is still in her cloak! With a sigh, she walks over to Polly and pulls out the pages of the spellbook - except for the one with Singe's handwriting - and holds them up. "Plenytn, I believe these belong to you?"
Dungeon Master - LSoL
Kaori - Battlemaster Fighter 5 / Paladin 2 (Kenku) - TSR
Cherna Godhari - Grave Cleric 4 (Human) - TW
Breena Mahi'ai - Divination Wizard 8 (Halfling) - WoE
Sharyn Savonath - Open Sea Paladin 4 (Triton) - PoPI
Zephyr - Four Elements (Revised) Monk 4 (Air Genasi) - IO
Takeshi - Mercy Monk 6 (Protector Aasimar) - TBW
Avrui Sirsash - Genie Warlock 2 (Wildhunt Shifter) - WotBS
After keeping watch from atop the building for an hour or so, Koll deems that everything is safe and that the island is returning to normal. He goes back inside the building and shares with the others the good news about seeing birds. "Animal life has returned and the natural balance is being restored. I see no danger out there from returning modrons or anything like that."
He then recounts, for those who weren't there, what happened on the ship. He tells Singe how the busy little modron traded a magical spell gem for a length of rope and the magical glass staff for Koll's wooden tonfa. "But the ship was like a house of cards. It came tumbling down with us inside. I tried to save Woe, but she ended up saving me. I nearly died. Still, I'd kinda like to go back there and see how Drony is getting on. Maybe bring him some salvaged material."
He goes on to recount how they found the clearing and had figured out that the others had gone inside the building. With a subdued sense of pride he tells them how he took control of the mechanical elephant and destroyed the two mechanical gorillas. Then they all rushed in to help the others, but it was all over so quickly.
"Here, Perrin," says Koll, handing the halfling the jade spell gem. "I wasn't sure if you were in your right mind, but you seem all right now. This gem has a powerful spell inside that it seems only a holy warrior like you would be able to use. It might not make up for the loss of your sword, but it's something at least."
“Thank you Koll. I’m glad to see that my previous actions hasn’t lost me all the trust I’ve gained from everyone. And I do feel better. I just needed some time and space to prays. After telling Yondalla that I was using Frank to protect everyone, the same way anyone uses a sword to protect someone, I feel a little better. Frank, he isn’t evil. He is just extreme but I believe I can help channel that extreme power without killing everything that is chaotic.” Perrin tells Koll with a slight smile but, it isn’t as big as it was in the past.
"You speak of the sword in the present tense? Do you still have it somehow?"
“No. Not physically anymore. But, I know that if we’re ever facing great trouble I can call upon him again.” Perrin says, deciding that lying about it won’t do him any good.
Polly, still sitting near Lera, perked up at the mention of her name. "Oh! My spellbook!" She took them and quickly glanced over them. "There's a page missing," she said, sadly.
Shanolia sighs, reaching into the pocket of her cloak and pulling out the last page. "The handwriting was different, so I was unsure if it was yours. My apologies." She hands her the page.
"Different?" Polly took the page and inspected the handwriting. She read the note, then glanced up at Singe, then read the note a second time. As she sits there reading the note, she begins to weep.
Shanolia quickly leans down towards Polly. "Is everything alright, Plentyn?"
Polly hands the note to her, and she quickly glances over it;
“Polly,
I know you're going to be reading this when you're still angry, still upset at me. That's fine it's ok, it's understandable. This is not me trying to make up. This is me telling you what I know. You are the most magically talented person I have ever met. This is not an understatement. You replicated two spells perfectly yesterday only after seeing it once. No wizard has ever demonstrated that skill.
This would be bizarre if you were a wizard, but you're not a wizard. And you will probably never be a full wizard. Yes, you may learn some of my magic, like fire bolt or mage hand, but you aren't a wizard.
You're a sorcerer. I can see the magic around you. You radiate it. You might not feel or wield the magic now, but eventually you will control your magic. I would like to help you. If you're still angry at me, I want you to know that I wanted you to come but you MUST listen to your body. If you're legs feel funny, DO NOT go running around in a dungeon. Especially as you are a sorcerer, your magic comes from you, the more you try to exert your body, the closer to death you get.
We'll go over what you learned yesterday when I get back.
-Singe”
Shanolia inhales deeply, mentally kicking herself for not reading this before despite feeling that it was none of her business. "I see." She hugs Polly, letting her cry without having to say anything.
Polly sniffled, crying into her shoulder. "I was so mad at him. But I'm like Lera." She glances over at Lera. "I... don't want to kill anyone.."
"Lera was just trying to protect you. We were lied to, and she lost her temper. If you'd like, Koll and I could teach you both how to meditate? That way neither of you has to worry in the future."
Polly nods. "Okay." She takes the page from her. "What does he mean that I'm the most magically talented person he's met? He's more powerful than me. So is Lera. All of you are."
"You are young, you've yet to reach your full potential. In the years to come, you will surpass even Singe in magical ability; but only if you listen to your teachers, and most importantly listen to your body. And a little secret between you and me..." Shanolia leans in and whispers in the young girl's ear. "I had an unfair advantage to get my magic."
"What do you mean?" Polly asked curiously.
"My mother was a very powerful wizard, and she taught me my spells. I stopped practising magic for a bit after my sister passed away, but I'm starting to get back into it. Will you help me learn again?"
"I-I'm not a wizard," Polly said, sadly. "I don't know how to teach magic. I don't even know how I learned it to begin with."
"You don't need to learn magic, Plentyn. That is what's so great about being a sorceress; it was inside you all along. You only need to learn how to make use of it. I know you are not a wizard, and I will not try to teach you anymore, but I would love to have you by my side as I learn to use magic once more."
"Okay," Polly said, nodding. "As long as I'm allowed to, anyway. I'm probably going to get into a lot of trouble for running away."
"Right, I forgot about that..." Shanolia ruffles her hair. "Running away was very dangerous, but in the end, you fought beside us like a true adventurer. I cannot guarantee you will not be punished, but I will be there to tell your brother how much help you truly were."
"Really?" Polly asked, surprised. "I thought nobody really wanted me here."
"Nonsense, Plentyn!" She pulls Polly closer. "We all want you here, and we are all very proud of you. We were just scared that something might happen and you might not trust us to keep you safe anymore."
"Why wouldn't I trust you?" Polly looks at the Elf, confused. "Because of that guy who wanted to take me?"
"If you got hurt, we were afraid you would blame us- at least, that was my excuse. I see now that you are not like that, and you are more than capable in your own right."
"I'm sorry I made everyone worry," Polly said, looking away. "I'll try to be... better."
"You don't have to try to be anything, Plentyn. The problem was how we were looking at the situation. Just keep being you."
"Okay," Polly said, brightening once again.
"I have to meditate now, but I'll be right over there if you need me, okay?" She gestures towards a corner nearby.
Polly nods then turns her attention back to Lera.
Shanolia ruffles her hair once more, before walking over to the corner and pulling out the obsidian dagger to meditate and figure out what it's deal was.
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Nightfall comes quick. The sun begins to dip into the mountainous area around the island and darkness starts to set in. Both Singe and Grasalfan continue their research, only occasionally interrupted by members of the party as they do. The quiet of the jungle starts to be replaced, and at one point Dapple thinks he sees a mosquito. Life is, indeed, returning to this island. There's still no word from any of the modrons that went out into the jungle to hunt, and this makes everyone wonder what might have befallen them.
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“What did you and Shanolia talk about?” Lera asked Polly as soon as her father was out of sight.
Polly looks away. "About how I'm not a wizard."
“Yeah, that must have been really disappointing for you. I know how much you look up to Singe.”
"But... I'm like you, Lera." Polly looks up and smiles, weakly. "That means I don't have to study."
“Studying is boring, I was always rubbish at it.”
"Yeah, adventuring is much more fun." Polly keeps looking up at you, as if she wants to say something.
“Life is short, Pols,” Lera gave Polly a wink. “If you have something to say, say it.”
"I..." Polly begins, looking very sad. She moves closer to you and says, in a near whisper, "I... don't want to kill anyone."
“It isn’t the worst thing you can do.”
Polly looks at you, scared. "What's the worst I could do?"
“Torture is pretty bad, so is slavery... Really, the list goes on and on.”
Polly shrank away, slightly. "But, I'd never do that!"
“Sometimes killing can’t be avoided.”
"If... if I'm defending myself..." Polly looked up at Lera, warily. "But... you... you just killed that man. He didn't do anything. Was that because you can't control your magic? Does that mean I can't either?"
“We are two different kinds of sorcerers, Pols. My power comes from the wild magic that is all around us. Your's comes from the Gods. You’re going to have different problems than I am, learning how to use your magic.”
"The... Gods?" Polly pondered this a moment, confused. "What does that mean? I don't understand."
“Magic is often referred to as The Weave. When I look at it, I see threads of power all tangled up. With me, it’s hard to see where the outside threads end and mine begin. My magic is a tangle, and often when I pull a thread, it’s knotted with others that come along for the ride. When I look at Singe, I see the wild tangle becoming organized as it passes through his focus. He isn’t a source of threads; he knows how to untangle them. But you, you don’t look like either of us. You have threads that come from within you, but they are bright and made of light, like Perrin’s. I don’t know what that means, but I think your magic is Divine.”
"Who can help then?" Polly looks around at the various party members, noting those who are not present.
“Everyone wants to help you Pols, it’s up to you to figure out who you want,” Lera drew pictures in the dirt. “Just... make sure that whoever does teach you remembers what you are. You are a sorcerer, Polly. Your problems from before came from Singe trying to shove a round peg into a square hole.”
Polly began to look distraught. "I'm so confused by all this."
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you.”
"I don't want to lose control and kill someone," Polly said quietly. "I don't know what to do."
“Losing control and killing someone are two different issues, don’t confuse the two,” Lera frowned. “You’re also not me.”
"I..." Polly said, softly once again. "I don't know what I am."
“Well that’s for you to figure out then, isn’t it?”
"I guess," Polly said, still looking somewhat distraught.
“What you are is a divine sorcerer, whatever that means,” Lera attempted to comfort Polly. “But who you are isn’t defined by magic or anything else. That is entirely up to you. You get to define your story, and if you’re not sure yet that’s alright.”
"Okay," Polly said, doubtful.
“If you don’t believe me, why don’t you ask someone older and wiser.”
Polly frowned. "I just thought I was supposed to be taught by someone. But everyone's saying nobody can teach me."
“No, that’s not what we mean,” Lera shook her head. “You can still have your pick of who you want to teach you. For Singe, all of his magic comes from the learning, but for you it’s different, so he’s having a hard time grasping what to do. Because your magic is innate, whether you learn spells or not, it’s still going to be there. With me, my dad tried his best to teach me. He taught me how magic works, certain spells and what they can do, that sort of thing. Whether he had tried to teach me or not, I still would have been able to cast spells, but because of him I’m a better, more diverse, and more controlled spellcaster.”
"Well, then," Polly said, coming to a decision. "I want all of you to teach me."
“You’re not worried about too many cooks in the kitchen?” Lera raised an eyebrow. “Or becoming exhausted again?
"I don't want to be like Singe." Polly looked up to Lera, a glint in her eyes. "I want to be like all of you! I'll go slow this time, I promise."
“I’m not worried about you being careful, I’m worried about us,” Lera laughed. “What if I make you train right after Singe tired you out?”
Polly thinks a moment. "Only one trainer a day," she says as if she has it all figured out.
“You just have to listen to your body, Pols. Promise me you won’t push it?”
"I promise. If I feel weird, I'll stop." Polly smiled up to Lera. "Does that mean you'll help me?"
“If you want me to, Pols.”
"W-we're friends... r-right?"
“I hope you still think of me as a friend.”
"You're my first friend, Lera." Polly hesitated, then took her hand. "I'm just scared... that I'll lose control like you did."
“I’m sorry I scared you.”
"Are you okay?" Polly asked, concerned. "You were out for a long time."
“I think so, yeah,” Lera shrugged. “I got hit really hard with one of those mind blasts.”
"I...thought you died."
“Oh, Pols, it’ll take more than that to knock me down for good," Lera said confidently. Polly smiles and leaps at Lera, giving her a hug.
A few minutes went by before Lera stood up and left the building. She was getting itchy just sitting there. Her whole body was sore from the battle earlier, but she wanted to be helpful. She walked around the building, finally finding a wall that appeared suitable to her. Lera cast mold earth, lifting a perfect cube of sand from the ground and depositing it on the ground next to the whole.
Polly followed along inquired, "Lera? What are you doing?"
"Digging a hole," Lera says, grunting as another block of dirt comes out of the ground.
Polly watched for a few moments. "Why?"
"Because I think it would be a good hiding spot and a safe space to sleep," another block of sand excavated. Lera was moving along the entire wall, methodically digging a giant hole.
"Oh," Polly said, slightly confused. "We aren't safe now?"
"I dunno," Lera shrugged. "There's still a whole jungle out there." Polly nods, sitting to the side and watching.
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Hearing the earth move outside Perrin goes to investigate it and finds Lera “digging”. “Why are you moving the earth?” He asks.
"Because I'm digging a hole?" Lera raised an eyebrow. "Come on, Perrin, keep up."
Perrin rolls his eyes “I know that but why do you need a hole? What are planning on doing with it?”
"I think I can make a nice hidey-hole for us to sleep in," Lera smiled. "I'll cover it with palms, and then sprinkle sand on top of the palms so that it looks like it's just normal ground."
Perrin gives Lera a look like this might be a little weird but decides not to push that forward. “Can I help? I have a shovel to dig with. I just need to do something physical. I’ve never been good at just waiting around.”
"It's not weird, it's going to work," Lera grumbled. "Would you mind gathering palm fronds for me? I've got a handle on the digging at the moment." To show him, the aasimar waved around the clump of dirt she had suspended in the air before depositing along the perimeter. "Oh! And vines," she added as an afterthought. "I also need vines."
“On it.” Perrin says before making sure he has his weapons and shields and heads to into the jungle to gather what was requested. He makes sure not to go too far though in case something happens.
After Perrin returns with the building materials, Lera began to weave a giant net out of the vines. "I'm sorry I lashed out at you earlier," she apologized to Perrin. "I was mad that nobody trusted me. I hate being tied up."
“I understand. I’m sorry for bringing up the Captain incident. It was a low blow and I too was angry at everyone not trusting me.” Perrin responds.
"You don't feel like killing me anymore, right?"
“No. I’ve had some time to reflect and pray. Plus, I’d never let anything kill you. I don’t think Polly would forgive me if I did.” Perrin says
Polly nods vigorously.
"And because I'm wonderful company and you'd miss me?"
“Shhh. That’s a secret.” Perrin says playfully as he puts a finger up to his lips.
Lera smiled and hummed a little to herself. "I knew it."
Koll shows Zamar and Woe up on to the rooftop to a suitable place. "I will come in after you if it seems you are in trouble."
Woe breathes in and out deeply a few times...."Ok, let's do this." She sits down in a comfortable position. "I am not sure if I'll be able to signal you, but I will try. Any tips?" She looks at the two men.
"Just be confident," Koll offers.
"Ok, here we go." Woe pulls out her pipe and fills it. Then she uses the tinderbox to light it. She stretches out her spine, takes on a confident posture, looks out over the forest, then says: "I can do this. I will find out the truth." Then she takes a couple of deep drags from the pipe.
Woe falls to the side, small wisps of the strange substance floating up from her nostrils. Koll catches her and lays her down gently. Her eyes are still open and she has stopped breathing completely. Suddenly she takes in a breath of air, as if unintentional and forced. She continues this way as she remains in her dream-state.
Koll watches her intently, looking for any sign of distress and ready to inhale the drug should he need to. Sh moves slightly, her mouth making wordless movement and her fingers twitching, but there's no sign yet of danger, so Koll believes.