Smiling at being called a pet, Hal leaned forward and collected his winnings and felt the now familiar pull of magic from his ring.
‘Some pets have been known to bite their masters.’
The thought made him snicker a little as the half-Orc sauntered off to the bar.
Finishing the last of his drink, Hal regained control of the power that toyed with his emotions and focused on the card reading that was happening a few feet away.
Amazed at the accuracy of the first card, Bryce sits in silence as Rahima continues his reading. As she gets towards the third card, his future he listens intensely. Making sure to remember everything she’s said so far. “Mother Nature, Feminine divine, and the shield...” He repeats those words in his head “Thank you, Rahima my Tyr bless you and give you his protection.” At that point he would noticed Nyx fluttering around the cards “Interested in my read, small friend? You said it was Nyx right?”
"Ja," replies Nyx. "Diese Karten are very interesting. Vas is in your past that represents such sadness and loss?"
Nyx is very interested in the tarot cards. Unlike the cubes with markings, these seem to have religious significance. They move forward to take a closer look.
Rahima notices Nyx taking an interest in the cards. "You are an uncommon sight in this city. Do you have a connection with card reading? Or would you like a reading yourself? I love its beauty and simplicity. Really, the symbolism of these cards crosses all cultural and spiritual boundaries to create a uniquely personal experience."
Amazed at the accuracy of the first card, Bryce sits in silence as Rahima continues his reading. As she gets towards the third card, his future he listens intensely. Making sure to remember everything she’s said so far. “Mother Nature, Feminine divine, and the shield...” He repeats those words in his head “Thank you, Rahima my Tyr bless you and give you his protection.” At that point he would noticed Nyx fluttering around the cards “Interested in my read, small friend? You said it was Nyx right?”
"I see a light in you. You will find your way. Go with god, my friend!" Rahima smiles friendly at Bryce.
Pirates scum, that is for sure a type that we don't want in Baldur's Gate, thought Alysa to herself. She think she could do two birds - one stone by eliminating a threat for the City and getting some information for her investigation. "Very well, if we make sure they won't bother you anymore, you give us the information? Are they coming here in this Tavern and when are they arriving ?"
Tarina rights herself. "Of course! You take care of my foes and I'll tell you where to find followers of the Dead Three." She looks around in the room. "Yeah, so, I heard, they're not far away. Probably on their way already. And yeah, seeing as I am here, that's where they'll go!"
Nyx is very interested in the tarot cards. Unlike the cubes with markings, these seem to have religious significance. They move forward to take a closer look.
Rahima notices Nyx taking an interest in the cards. "You are an uncommon sight in this city. Do you have a connection with card reading? Or would you like a reading yourself? I love its beauty and simplicity. Really, the symbolism of these cards crosses all cultural and spiritual boundaries to create a uniquely personal experience."
Nyx nods. "Ja, Ich would like a reading. Perhaps this will explain mein appearance here in this alien plane."
Alysa nods at Tamira. She then turns towards her new group "Well we may have the element of surprise. I say we go downstairs and just enjoy our time in the Tavern while waiting for those pirates".
As she walks back towards the stairs, she place her hand on Jhasoo's shoulder. "Jhasso, you seem to be quite unique. Where are you coming from ? I do not recognise your accent. And what are your skills ?" "I'm sorry to be curious, but I like to know the persons I'm working with" She adds with a smile.
Nyx is very interested in the tarot cards. Unlike the cubes with markings, these seem to have religious significance. They move forward to take a closer look.
Rahima notices Nyx taking an interest in the cards. "You are an uncommon sight in this city. Do you have a connection with card reading? Or would you like a reading yourself? I love its beauty and simplicity. Really, the symbolism of these cards crosses all cultural and spiritual boundaries to create a uniquely personal experience."
Nyx nods. "Ja, Ich would like a reading. Perhaps this will explain mein appearance here in this alien plane."
"Ok, here we go." Rahima mixes the cards. "With your left hand, choose three cards. The first one is your past, the second one is the present and the third one points to your future." Rahima turns each card over as she explains them. She makes sure that she has Nyx's full attention.
"In your past, we have the fool. The Fool represents folly, extravagance, even carelessness, but with a certain innocence that brings bliss and exaltation of someone living in the moment. The Fool’s “come what may” attitude allows them to be open to every possibility and act with judgment, experimenting, and trying each opportunity that presents itself." Rahima pauses, making sure she is not overwhelming Nyx.
"As I see this, you were trying to find some new and exciting opportunities in your life. You were following your heart and took a leap of faith! This usually is step one on an important journey, so listen to what the Universe is telling you, and don’t hesitate to be bold!
She waits again, lets the words sink in. "Here, in your presence, is the Ace of Pentacles. This is a very positive card. It may feel to you, that this is not right, that this card is not in the right place. But looking back, you will recognise its value. There is a strong sense of stability and long-term success found in that card. This usually highlights a particularly effective relationship team, a friendship, where each person will make the other not only happier but also stronger together than they might be apart." Again, she takes time, explains some of the phrases in more detail to the fairy and makes sure, they understand. "Finally, on a more spiritual or mental point of view, the Ace of Pentacles can highlight a state of great felicity and contentment. A mind driven by this card is free from the chronic emptiness or sense of meaninglessness. You have purpose!"
Then she comes to the third card. "Again, the Chariot is a very positive card. It means your life is moving forward and you're making progress. But it also signifies a long road ahead. Where the Fool was striding forward because he was candid and naïve, the chariot card moves forward through sheer force of will and determination. You want to be fearless and take risks. This card is a high risk, high reward card, but with high risk, there can be a great loss. So be prepared. Once the Fool has defined their values and the kind of person they want to be, they must try to fit into the world both by changing themselves and changing the world around them."
Then Rahimi adds a warning: "However, one of the downsides of the Chariot card is that it can lead to excessive pride sometimes, propping you up for a fall if you don’t keep your eyes wide open and fairly objective when you think about yourself."
Rahimi lets out a big breath. "I know this was a lot. It will become clear with time. It is clear to me, that you're with friends and the cards say you're on the right path. Keep flying."
Alysa nods at Tamira. She then turns towards her new group "Well we may have the element of surprise. I say we go downstairs and just enjoy our time in the Tavern while waiting for those pirates".
As she walks back towards the stairs, she place her hand on Jhasoo's shoulder. "Jhasso, you seem to be quite unique. Where are you coming from ? I do not recognise your accent. And what are your skills ?" "I'm sorry to be curious, but I like to know the persons I'm working with" She adds with a smile.
"A girl should never be sorry for her curiosity. This man is from Cloackwood, the woods south of this city, tenebrous and magnificent at the same time. This man has learned the way of the druid there."
After a pause, Jhasso replies: "May this man ask the same to this girl? Has the Gate been always her home?"
"A girl should never be sorry for her curiosity. This man is from Cloackwood, the woods south of this city, tenebrous and magnificent at the same time. This man has learned the way of the druid there."
After a pause, Jhasso replies: "May this man ask the same to this girl? Has the Gate been always her home?"
"Cloakwood, I only know it by name. Still planning to go check it out one day." "Well, not much to say about me. I arrived as a toddler and spend all my childhood here. So, yes, I consider myself a Baldurian. My father owns a reputed restaurant - The Fancy Foot. You should try it after our mission." says Alysa with a half a smile
She pauses a little bit before continuing "Druid you say. Some magic from Mother Nature could be useful for sure. I heard some powerful Druids can become beast, is that true?"
"A girl should never be sorry for her curiosity. This man is from Cloackwood, the woods south of this city, tenebrous and magnificent at the same time. This man has learned the way of the druid there."
After a pause, Jhasso replies: "May this man ask the same to this girl? Has the Gate been always her home?"
"Cloakwood, I only know it by name. Still planning to go check it out one day." "Well, not much to say about me. I arrived as a toddler and spend all my childhood here. So, yes, I consider myself a Baldurian. My father owns a reputed restaurant - The Fancy Foot. You should try it after our mission." says Alysa with a half a smile
She pauses a little bit before continuing "Druid you say. Some magic from Mother Nature could be useful for sure. I heard some powerful Druids can become beast, is that true?"
"This girl knows much. Yes, druids can turn into beasts, or conjure spirits of nature. This man will show a girl if he will ever be able to perform such a feat."
You all slowly walk downstairs, taking your time, getting a drink and waiting for Tarina's pirates to arrive. The tavern is filling up with patrons while the afternoon stretches on and the noise level is rising. Suddenly, an eery, faint voice can be heard, it's singing a song.
The tavern turns silent, everybody is intently listening to this beautiful song. It is sung in Elvish. Elfsong
Spoiler for Hal, who speaks Elvish:
O sing a song of Elturel Of water, woods, and hill The sun dawns on her ruddy cliffs And fields green and still. This land of long-abiding joy Home of the strong and brave Renowned by all, across the realms, And never once a slave.
O sing a song of Elturel When foes are at her door Her fields torn by cloven feet From some infernal shore. Arise the mighty Hellriders Take up your swift, keen swords Then charge into the hellish fray And scatter devil hordes.
O sing a song of Elturel And when the night does fall Sleep safe beneath Companion’s light Until the dawn does call. We’re bound by mortal covenant That only ends with death And so we’ll sing of Elturel Until our final breath.
Jhasso listens to the song silently, moved, even though he didn't understand a word of it. He was about to ask for a translation, but he figures sometimes a song does not need to be translated.
However, Jhasso approaches the bartender: " May this man ask who and where the singer is?"
"Oh, gosh, I, ... I am actually the owner. Alan. T'is song. It has been the same for decades. But, but tonight,... it was different! It was never different!" Alan pours himself a glass of cold water with shaking hands. "This singer is the reason we are so popular. It's an elf spirit, she sings of a long-lost lover. Always! But not tonight!"
"Oh, gosh, I, ... I am actually the owner. Alan. T'is song. It has been the same for decades. But, but tonight,... it was different! It was never different!" Alan pours himself a glass of cold water with shaking hands. "This singer is the reason we are so popular. It's an elf spirit, she sings of a long-lost lover. Always! But not tonight!"
"A man does not need to be afraid. What does the owner think on the reason why the elf spirit changed the song tonight?"
Close enough to Jhasso to hear the bartender, Alysa joins the conversation. "I'm sorry, but I cannot speak Elven. What has been changed in the lyrics ?"
Alan is still shaking, filling a second glass with water. "Golly gosh, I...., I don't even remember. It, ... it was so different. So unexpected! She usually sings about her one love, her one and only love - and how she lost it. Ohhhh, this has never happened!"
He drinks some of the water. "Ohhh, now. Sh.. sh.. she talked about Elturel, and about Hellriders. I think. Why the song changed? I don't know! Maybe a goodbye? Maybe a tribute? How would I know?" He holds his head in his hands and looks deflated.
"Ja," replies Nyx. "Diese Karten are very interesting. Vas is in your past that represents such sadness and loss?"
Bryce with a sad look on his face “I lost my mother when I was born, my father raised me himself. He’s tried his best but nothing can replace a mother’s love you know.” He offers a smile “But hey, he raised me well and taught me well too.”
As Nyx get their reading Bryce looks over to the others, seeing Alysa speak to the woman that was gambling “Seems thing are falling into place, Nyx I’ll leave you to your readings, okay.” Bryce follows the others back to the bar “So what’s happening are we waiting on something Alysa?”
“So what’s happening are we waiting on something Alysa?”
Undisturbed by the changes in the song, Alysa replies: "Well, it seems pirates are on their way to deal with our informant. We deal with them, she gives us the intel. Fair deal, as pirates are not welcome within the city anyway."
After some reflexion, she continues: "I can talk to them but if they attack us, we can legitimately defend ourselves at full force. Attacking Flaming Fist Officers or any representant of the Fist is punishable by death in Baldur." Alysa then scans the room and adds: " We should take positions at different corner of the establishment, I don't think they will be anticipating any resistance. But please, mind the patrons here. I do not want any bystander harmed in any way"
When Alysatakes a little time to think about the history of Elturel, where she had been on two previous assignments, she remembers that the "Hellriders", paladins who have sworn oaths to defend Elturel, were so-named long ago when they descended into the Nine Hells on horseback to fight devils.
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Smiling at being called a pet, Hal leaned forward and collected his winnings and felt the now familiar pull of magic from his ring.
‘Some pets have been known to bite their masters.’
The thought made him snicker a little as the half-Orc sauntered off to the bar.
Finishing the last of his drink, Hal regained control of the power that toyed with his emotions and focused on the card reading that was happening a few feet away.
"Ja," replies Nyx. "Diese Karten are very interesting. Vas is in your past that represents such sadness and loss?"
Brunella Wildheart, Dwarf Barbarian,Tomb of Annihilation
Nyx, Fairy Cleric, Descent Into Avernus
Rahima notices Nyx taking an interest in the cards. "You are an uncommon sight in this city. Do you have a connection with card reading? Or would you like a reading yourself? I love its beauty and simplicity. Really, the symbolism of these cards crosses all cultural and spiritual boundaries to create a uniquely personal experience."
"I see a light in you. You will find your way. Go with god, my friend!" Rahima smiles friendly at Bryce.
Tarina rights herself. "Of course! You take care of my foes and I'll tell you where to find followers of the Dead Three." She looks around in the room. "Yeah, so, I heard, they're not far away. Probably on their way already. And yeah, seeing as I am here, that's where they'll go!"
Nyx nods. "Ja, Ich would like a reading. Perhaps this will explain mein appearance here in this alien plane."
Brunella Wildheart, Dwarf Barbarian,Tomb of Annihilation
Nyx, Fairy Cleric, Descent Into Avernus
Alysa nods at Tamira. She then turns towards her new group "Well we may have the element of surprise. I say we go downstairs and just enjoy our time in the Tavern while waiting for those pirates".
As she walks back towards the stairs, she place her hand on Jhasoo's shoulder. "Jhasso, you seem to be quite unique. Where are you coming from ? I do not recognise your accent. And what are your skills ?"
"I'm sorry to be curious, but I like to know the persons I'm working with" She adds with a smile.
Currently Playing: Regdus Ironfist (Greyhawk) Lvl 1 Storm Sorcerer ; Goraseth Drerjoxian (Icespeak) Lvl 3 Paladin Oath of Glory; Lerak (The Wild Beyond the Witchlight) Lvl 3 Barbarian Wild Magic
In Pause: Grimnir " Shadow-Feet", Lv 11 Owner of "The Basilisk & the Monk" (OotA) - Kurma Kappa, Lv 8 Priest of Oghma (ToA)
Currently DM'ing: Princes of Apocalypse >> Tomb of Annihilation
"Ok, here we go." Rahima mixes the cards. "With your left hand, choose three cards. The first one is your past, the second one is the present and the third one points to your future." Rahima turns each card over as she explains them. She makes sure that she has Nyx's full attention.
"In your past, we have the fool. The Fool represents folly, extravagance, even carelessness, but with a certain innocence that brings bliss and exaltation of someone living in the moment. The Fool’s “come what may” attitude allows them to be open to every possibility and act with judgment, experimenting, and trying each opportunity that presents itself." Rahima pauses, making sure she is not overwhelming Nyx.
"As I see this, you were trying to find some new and exciting opportunities in your life. You were following your heart and took a leap of faith! This usually is step one on an important journey, so listen to what the Universe is telling you, and don’t hesitate to be bold!
She waits again, lets the words sink in. "Here, in your presence, is the Ace of Pentacles. This is a very positive card. It may feel to you, that this is not right, that this card is not in the right place. But looking back, you will recognise its value. There is a strong sense of stability and long-term success found in that card. This usually highlights a particularly effective relationship team, a friendship, where each person will make the other not only happier but also stronger together than they might be apart." Again, she takes time, explains some of the phrases in more detail to the fairy and makes sure, they understand. "Finally, on a more spiritual or mental point of view, the Ace of Pentacles can highlight a state of great felicity and contentment. A mind driven by this card is free from the chronic emptiness or sense of meaninglessness. You have purpose!"
Then she comes to the third card. "Again, the Chariot is a very positive card. It means your life is moving forward and you're making progress. But it also signifies a long road ahead. Where the Fool was striding forward because he was candid and naïve, the chariot card moves forward through sheer force of will and determination. You want to be fearless and take risks. This card is a high risk, high reward card, but with high risk, there can be a great loss. So be prepared. Once the Fool has defined their values and the kind of person they want to be, they must try to fit into the world both by changing themselves and changing the world around them."
Then Rahimi adds a warning: "However, one of the downsides of the Chariot card is that it can lead to excessive pride sometimes, propping you up for a fall if you don’t keep your eyes wide open and fairly objective when you think about yourself."
Rahimi lets out a big breath. "I know this was a lot. It will become clear with time. It is clear to me, that you're with friends and the cards say you're on the right path. Keep flying."
"A girl should never be sorry for her curiosity. This man is from Cloackwood, the woods south of this city, tenebrous and magnificent at the same time. This man has learned the way of the druid there."
After a pause, Jhasso replies: "May this man ask the same to this girl? Has the Gate been always her home?"
"Cloakwood, I only know it by name. Still planning to go check it out one day."
"Well, not much to say about me. I arrived as a toddler and spend all my childhood here. So, yes, I consider myself a Baldurian. My father owns a reputed restaurant - The Fancy Foot. You should try it after our mission." says Alysa with a half a smile
She pauses a little bit before continuing "Druid you say. Some magic from Mother Nature could be useful for sure. I heard some powerful Druids can become beast, is that true?"
Currently Playing: Regdus Ironfist (Greyhawk) Lvl 1 Storm Sorcerer ; Goraseth Drerjoxian (Icespeak) Lvl 3 Paladin Oath of Glory; Lerak (The Wild Beyond the Witchlight) Lvl 3 Barbarian Wild Magic
In Pause: Grimnir " Shadow-Feet", Lv 11 Owner of "The Basilisk & the Monk" (OotA) - Kurma Kappa, Lv 8 Priest of Oghma (ToA)
Currently DM'ing: Princes of Apocalypse >> Tomb of Annihilation
"This girl knows much. Yes, druids can turn into beasts, or conjure spirits of nature. This man will show a girl if he will ever be able to perform such a feat."
You all slowly walk downstairs, taking your time, getting a drink and waiting for Tarina's pirates to arrive. The tavern is filling up with patrons while the afternoon stretches on and the noise level is rising. Suddenly, an eery, faint voice can be heard, it's singing a song.
The tavern turns silent, everybody is intently listening to this beautiful song. It is sung in Elvish. Elfsong
Spoiler for Hal, who speaks Elvish:
O sing a song of Elturel
Of water, woods, and hill
The sun dawns on her ruddy cliffs
And fields green and still.
This land of long-abiding joy
Home of the strong and brave
Renowned by all, across the realms,
And never once a slave.
O sing a song of Elturel
When foes are at her door
Her fields torn by cloven feet
From some infernal shore.
Arise the mighty Hellriders
Take up your swift, keen swords
Then charge into the hellish fray
And scatter devil hordes.
O sing a song of Elturel
And when the night does fall
Sleep safe beneath Companion’s light
Until the dawn does call.
We’re bound by mortal covenant
That only ends with death
And so we’ll sing of Elturel
Until our final breath.
Elfsong for Hal
However, after the song stops, there is a real commotion. Some talking about the 'lyrics being different' to the normal song?!?
Alysa keeps looking around the tavern, but it really looks like there is no back door.
Jhasso listens to the song silently, moved, even though he didn't understand a word of it. He was about to ask for a translation, but he figures sometimes a song does not need to be translated.
However, Jhasso approaches the bartender: " May this man ask who and where the singer is?"
"Oh, gosh, I, ... I am actually the owner. Alan. T'is song. It has been the same for decades. But, but tonight,... it was different! It was never different!" Alan pours himself a glass of cold water with shaking hands. "This singer is the reason we are so popular. It's an elf spirit, she sings of a long-lost lover. Always! But not tonight!"
"A man does not need to be afraid. What does the owner think on the reason why the elf spirit changed the song tonight?"
Close enough to Jhasso to hear the bartender, Alysa joins the conversation. "I'm sorry, but I cannot speak Elven. What has been changed in the lyrics ?"
Currently Playing: Regdus Ironfist (Greyhawk) Lvl 1 Storm Sorcerer ; Goraseth Drerjoxian (Icespeak) Lvl 3 Paladin Oath of Glory; Lerak (The Wild Beyond the Witchlight) Lvl 3 Barbarian Wild Magic
In Pause: Grimnir " Shadow-Feet", Lv 11 Owner of "The Basilisk & the Monk" (OotA) - Kurma Kappa, Lv 8 Priest of Oghma (ToA)
Currently DM'ing: Princes of Apocalypse >> Tomb of Annihilation
Alan is still shaking, filling a second glass with water. "Golly gosh, I...., I don't even remember. It, ... it was so different. So unexpected! She usually sings about her one love, her one and only love - and how she lost it. Ohhhh, this has never happened!"
He drinks some of the water. "Ohhh, now. Sh.. sh.. she talked about Elturel, and about Hellriders. I think. Why the song changed? I don't know! Maybe a goodbye? Maybe a tribute? How would I know?" He holds his head in his hands and looks deflated.
Bryce with a sad look on his face “I lost my mother when I was born, my father raised me himself. He’s tried his best but nothing can replace a mother’s love you know.” He offers a smile “But hey, he raised me well and taught me well too.”
Felix Windfall(Human-V Lv.7 Rogue) killed in ToA, Vallan Houndstrider (Halfling Ghostwise Lv.1 Fighter) in DiAUndisturbed by the changes in the song, Alysa replies: "Well, it seems pirates are on their way to deal with our informant. We deal with them, she gives us the intel. Fair deal, as pirates are not welcome within the city anyway."
After some reflexion, she continues: "I can talk to them but if they attack us, we can legitimately defend ourselves at full force. Attacking Flaming Fist Officers or any representant of the Fist is punishable by death in Baldur."
Alysa then scans the room and adds: " We should take positions at different corner of the establishment, I don't think they will be anticipating any resistance. But please, mind the patrons here. I do not want any bystander harmed in any way"
Currently Playing: Regdus Ironfist (Greyhawk) Lvl 1 Storm Sorcerer ; Goraseth Drerjoxian (Icespeak) Lvl 3 Paladin Oath of Glory; Lerak (The Wild Beyond the Witchlight) Lvl 3 Barbarian Wild Magic
In Pause: Grimnir " Shadow-Feet", Lv 11 Owner of "The Basilisk & the Monk" (OotA) - Kurma Kappa, Lv 8 Priest of Oghma (ToA)
Currently DM'ing: Princes of Apocalypse >> Tomb of Annihilation
When Alysa takes a little time to think about the history of Elturel, where she had been on two previous assignments, she remembers that the "Hellriders", paladins who have sworn oaths to defend Elturel, were so-named long ago when they descended into the Nine Hells on horseback to fight devils.