Gaer begins to fear that he has done something wrong, while the girl from Longsaddle conducts her examination of his work... his features begin to show traces of doubt and apprehension... until she starts laughing!
"Oh, I see!" the tiefling pretends to be indignant "You wanted to get revenge for when I pretended there weren't the Purple Flags, right, Roxana? Well, you know what?" but he too bursts out laughing "You did well!" and he puts his arm around her waist, gently pulling her into contact with him "A day without laughter is like a roast without salt" and his lips seek hers for another kiss.
"Quspira, you say?" Gaer looks around once again... but he doesn't see her "Maybe she preferred to leave discreetly to give us greater intimacy..." the look of those scleralless full black eyes softens "You know, we make fun of each other, but deep down... we have a strong bond. Quspira gave up her previous job for me - a job that meant a lot to her. And she must have understood that..." he searches for the right words - apparently in difficulty "Yes, well... I've met other girls before... Even though I always tried to be more careful than Rash about consequences... Some were pretty like you... Some were witty like you... Some had a quick mind like yours... But none, none of these would survive more of a minute to the life I live. With no one I have ever imagined a... a future longer than the night we kept each other company. With you... With you I can't get out of my head how wonderful it would be to continue to have you next to me. Quspira knows me. She must have understood it".
When Olivia answers the dinner call, the improvised cook can't help but smile, both at the initial insinuation and at the comment on Roxana's regard for 'the guests' - apparently reduced to just one guest, now.
Venison, beer and cake are a success, so much so that Gaer feels like commenting, while he is savoring the cake at the end of the dinner: "Despite the disparity of means, I think that this dinner has nothing to envy of the one that Martha is offering to our adventure companions at the Sharnshield Mansion... Thank you Roxana! You were truly a perfect host".
After having also enjoyed the cake and drunk a few more beers in company between one chat and another, the tiefling says to Roxana: "I'll help you wash cutlery and pots and tidy up; it will be quicker in two...".
'...And we'll have more time for ourselves' is the obvious conclusion of the sentence; not pronounced aloud, but easily understood.
Sharnshield Mansion (Rash & Anita):
"Yes, I understand..." Anita finishes her cup, together with Rash, then crouches against him, under the blankets, holding the even more massive half-orc close to her and softly caressing his hair, until she cradles him in the sleep.
Olivia seems to enjoy the dinner and joins in the conversations a little bit. She's quiet much of the time though, her eyes darting from Gaer to Roxana.
"The meal was very good, Gaer. I'm impressed," Roxana comments, giving the Tiefling a smile as she finishes up. She had only refilled her cup with beer from the pitcher once, drinking it slowly. Olivia had several cups, despite a couple disapproving looks grin her sister.
After the cake, Olivia does express her appreciation. "That was quite good, both of you. Despite all your messing around. The cake was my favorite, as always." She leans back a bit in her chair. "I mean, I was going to make myself something just like it..."
Roxana suddenly jumps in, "No you weren't!"
Olivia laughs. "Ok, I probably wouldn't have. Anyway, what now?"
"Well, it is getting late. I'll be wanting to get some rest soon." Roxana first looks to Olivia. "You want to head off for the night?" There's an unspoken look between the two sisters, then Roxana turns to Gaer. "I can show you to your room."
"I wouldn't say she is a pet, more than an ally..." Aidwyn replies to Solitudes " But I kind of like her... you" she turns to Balbfy to include her in the conversation "She makes quite the impression" she chuckles" and I think we could do good things together... the three of us... "
"Oh, don't overdo it..." the tifeling smiles "Outdoor life has taught me to use some of nature's gifts to flavor game, but when it comes to cooking you probably beat me by a lot. To make a cake, for example example, I wouldn't know where to start - except maybe" and again those solid starless night eyes stare into Roxana's "from hoping that a beautiful and kind girl will do it for me! And yes, excellent idea, it's nice to talk a little together while working".
"Locally made beer will be fine, thanks!" Gaer assures "Martha and Dobbian's wedding will be in a month..." he reflects, starting to bravely face the barrage of questions "As I anticipated, it would be a long time to spend here without new work... In my opinion , if no new job opportunities emerge in, say, ten or fifteen days, we'd better get moving... maybe test the waters in the nearby towns. So, while we manage to attend the wedding, maybe in the meantime we'll also find the next job".
"The prospect of exploring more of that dungeon intrigues me..." the teifling smiles, moving on to the next question "I told you, didn't I, that I'm a curious guy? And we know" he adds with a smile of complicity "that you too are curious... And it's an exploration that could yield you much more than a few days of work at the tavern... so, in my opinion, you'd better prefer the former. We haven't sold Kylth's Flag yet, but I'm convinced that we can already get a good price for those. How many other valuable items, magical and otherwise, could still be left down there? If we are lucky enough to have the majority of the original party willing to follow us, we should not be at great risk... so I say we should seize this opportunity. And if we get enough out of this exploration, we might even have less worries about the future and extend our stay at Longsaddle, among other things".
"It's not easy to make precise plans when you embrace the career of an adventurer" admits Gaer, coming to the final questions. "I would certainly like to give you time to understand that this is the life you were born to live. That it is a life full of uncertainty, but also of excitement. That forces you to take calculated dangers, but that allows you to earn otherwise unthinkable rewards - and I'm not just talking about material rewards (which are certainly not useless in this world), it's also about pride in what you can do... Would you have ever imagined being able to bring back an innocent person from the realm of the dead and thus save the happiness of a couple and a child?"
"Anyway, of course, we will have to leave Longsaddle, sooner or later..." points out the adventurer "You are too smart not to have already understood it by yourself, Roxana: even if by chance we find a new assignment here... sooner or later, this assignment too would end. And then we would have to travel. Look for places where we are needed"..
After whispering her big-sisterly advice to Roxana, Spira lapses almost completely into the role of silent supporter: so much and so docilely so, indeed, that Gaer shoots her a long suspicious look at one point. But the goofy grin he surprises on her face with that look is an expression he can't remember seeing there since their childhood together before they found how broken and imperfect the world is sometimes; and he instantly understands and wholeheartedly agrees. He deserves a little happiness himself after so long a time wandering to heal the wounds others suffered from the broken world; Roxana deserves more than a little ... they deserve more than a little. And there's a certain quality to Spira's grin that says she hasn't given up on a little happiness for her own self yet either; and perhaps she might take the time someday to track down that lost comrade none of the companions had the heart to name, the white-haired warrior who vanished in a cloud of shadows like echoes of his own soul's darkness just as success was within reach and Zentromya standing literally feet away.
If Roxana is not too mesmerized by Gaer, she may note that many of the roots and herbs he uses are smoothly trimmed and chopped (or sliced, or diced) by his sister and placed in front of him just before he reaches for them. This is done almost as smoothly as the way she melts into a shadow and disappears just before Olivia returns and gives the couple some moments alone. When Olivia notes her absence, the younger sister's inquisitive eyes quickly spot a note neatly pinned to the cutting board she had been using.
"So sorry to have to run out on dinner, dears! I just remembered I never gave Thia the new tea she needs to keep Lady Martha as comfortable as possible. This love thing seems to be cropping up all over the placelately, if you know what I mean, and a baby is often the happy result. But if Angharradh knows why She designed the physical process the way She did, She certainly hasn't graced me with the information. And I fully believe She has enough of a sense of humour not to take it as irreverent when I state my firm belief that several things about the way humanoids are designed amount to nothing more or less than a rather juvenile practical joke by the gods. "
"Ask Gaer the kind of thing I mean. I'd rather not have to relive the year between his ninth and tenth birthdays that vividly, thank you very much."
"And don't you dare not save me a piece of that wonderful cake, or the beer! I will certainly be back for dessert."
"I agree with Olivia," Gaer admits "the cake was the best thing!"
When Roxana offers to show him to his room, the tiefling smiles: "How could I refuse such a courtesy? Of course!"
Once in the room, Gaer considers: "Comfortable... Cozy... Seems like the ideal place to keep good company and continue unfinished conversations... Come in, Roxana," he invites her, ready to close the door behind of them "let's stay together for a while".
Sharnshield Mansion (Aidwyn, Balfby & Solitude):
"It's my job, to 'make the impression', Mistress!" Balfby chuckles telepathically "We Yeth Hounds chase and frighten our prey until we take away all their strength and ability to react. And the taste of fear, Mistress! If you tasted it, how delicious it is! Mauling our frightened prey to pieces is the greatest pleasure for us... a short pleasure, unfortunately, but so intense..." the beast's mouth waters.
"Yes, Mistress..." the beast of darkness and nightmare approves, always telepathically "We will do many good things together... Chase... Scare... Tear... Kill... I like to do good things for you, Mistress!"
Meanwhile, completely unaware of the telepathic dialogue taking place, Solitude looks at Aidwyn with a mixture of admiration and respect in her scleralless golden eyes: "Good things... I doubt that Balfby could recognize a 'good thing' even if she found it tied to her tail with a bow!"
"You really are..." she searches for the right words, without taking her eyes off the other's "...a candid soul. Probably, if a mortal could ever make Balfby do good deeds, it's you".
"You vaguely remind me of Milo, in some ways - no offense. With the difference" she smiles smugly "that at least you, when you realize that the rest of the world is not as good and pure as you had imagined, have the strength to fight and straighten it out, instead of curling up in a fetal position and letting the surrounding evil kick you undisturbed!"
Roxana hesitates just inside the doorway after Gaer has gone inside. Her eyes don't leave him as he speaks, but she has a look of turmoil on her face. "Gaer that sounds lovely, but..." She sighs, glancing away a moment down the hall before slowly looking back. "I kind of need to catch up with Livy and talk to her a bit. I sort of already agreed." Slowly she steps forward, putting her arms around Gaer's waist. "You do understand, right?" She briefly gives him a peck on the cheek, then looks into his deep black eyes. Her face still so very close to his.
"Oh, well..." Gaer doesn't seem to know what to say at first, trying to hide his disappointment... but then he forces his features to relax into a smile again "Of course, I understand. By the way , from the conversations I've heard, it's understandable that you want to take the time necessary to find the right decision. But I have no doubt that you will be able to find it" he discloses his lips once again, joining them with those of the gracious host for a more passionate and less chaste than the one just received. "Good night, then..." he wishes her, when they part again "see you tomorrow" he doesn't close the door right away... those scleralless darknight eyes don't leave her... until she goes out of sight.
The following morning, although the end of winter is still far away, a timid sun announces a day perhaps less cold than usual.
Gaer must have decided to take advantage of the opportunity to make a small contribution to the breakfast, because he returns to the farm with a fox that he managed to kill and a load of strawberry tree berries. "Here, taste them girls!" he puts the berries on the table "In winter nature is not very much generous, with nourishment... but the strawberry tree, fortunately, provides its berries" in the meantime, he hurries to clean and roast the fox. "We'd better hurry, Roxana," he remarks. "Martha's well-deserved reward awaits you! You've already had a taste of the potential risks of the job... it's only right that now you also realize the extent of the rewards!"
Sharnshield Mansion (all):
Even the heroes who have spent the night in the luxury of the Sharnshield Mansion are awakened by the pleasant surprise of a sun that seem maybe a bit uncertain but is, at least, determined enough to show itself at dawn.
Balfby is probably the only one not too enthusiastic about its appearance and does her best to curl up in the shadows: "As I have already explained to you, Mistress, I cannot exist, in the light of the sun... but do not fear, as you already know, I'll get to you as soon as darkness allow".
Thia is happy to accompany you all to the common room where you had dinner the night, where Zentromya, who enters from the outside - who knows where she might have been - joins you. The half-elf young girl finds a table large enough for all of you and, seeming almost... to vibrate... with impatience to please you, she asks you with a big smile: "So, what do true heroes like you eat for breakfast? Eat and drink your fill! Martha and Dobbian will be down soon to reward you!"
Aidwyn tries to cover the window the best she could with the curtains and make the room as comfortable to Balbfy as she could. She then instructs the servants no t to enter in the room without her. She makes sure they understand the instructions and that everyone is aware of that. She the finally joins the others at breakfast.
"Some scrambled eggs and bread please... and fruit! what do you want?" she asks to Solitude.
Solitude seems pleasantly surprised: "Can I really order everything I want? It's a pleasant change from the usual... that is, seeing what I can gulp down quickly before having to run away from the usual exalted person who starts shouting 'on the daughter of Asmodeus!' So... let me think then, dear Thia... Yes, I'd say you could bring me some cheese, butter, olives, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, jam and... maybe even a little honey? Finally, if you could even get me some spiced sausage..."
"Yesterday Anita told me what you had to go through" the young half-elf girl looks fearlessly and with affection into those eyes that so many others find demonic "and I can assure you that every time you are here within these walls, the forces of the entire house Sharnshield will ensure your safety - even bothering the Harpells if necessary. You can relax and feel safe here, Solitude. And what you requested for coloration won't get me into trouble!" she winks "I may have to make more than one tour, but I will bring you everything you asked for! Miss Martha didn't make me her personal servant for nothing..."
And indeed, the half-breed whirlwind goes, calls, turns, returns and, little by little, brings to the table everything Aidwyn and Solitude desire.
"I..." Solitude seems amazed "Thank you, Thia. You... you are truly a dear girl".
But Thia is already focused on the other party members: "And you, my brave ones? What do you want me to bring you? Today it's my turn" she jokes, smiling "to quest for you!"
Zentromya telepathically informs Thia and the party: "I, as a messenger of Elysium, have no need to feed - but the purity of your heart gives me more satisfaction than any delicacy you can bring me, Thia".
Thia blushes and murmurs a thank you, only to then encourage the others: "Good! But we also have a good number of non-celestials here... right?"
So Anita decides: "A cake! I don't know how long it's been since I had the opportunity to eat a cake... I mean, not one all for myself... a slice or two..."
“Maybe delicately spiced cinnamon apple pie?” suggests the half-elf servant "Yesterday Martha had the cooks prepare one for her... and obviously she didn't eat it all..."
"Yes!" the ex-Zhentarim enthusiastically approves "It must be delicious! Do you want a slice for yourself too, Rash?"
Seeing the ever well predisposed Thia so busy Aidwyn stands and helps her bringing everyone's orders and she doesn't accept a negative from the half-elven girl
"You said we could have anything we wanted my good Thia, and what I want is help you serve my friends a well deserved breakfast.. " she says with a wink to Solitude.
Thia was initially trying to protest, but Aidwyn's words make her capitulate with a hearty laugh: "So, brave Aidwyn, what I brought you wasn't enough for your breakfast? You want to eat... my workplace also? Be my guest then, but be careful... if I get fired because they hire you... then I'll start doing the heroine around in your place!" and she bursts out laughing once again.
(OOC: @OisinmacCameron: Up to you if Spira spent the night at the Sharnshield Mansion or if she returned to Roxana's Farm attracted by the cake... Feel free to post in the environment you prefer)
Roxana seems to linger for some time in Gaer's embrace. But eventually she parts from him, even if a bit reluctantly. "Yes, I will certainly see you in the morning."
As she hears down the hall, she keeps her bright green eyes focused on his. She hesitates as she about to turn the corner. In fact it almost seems like she might have changed her mind and will come back before she finally disappears from Gaer's sight.
She slips off to find Olivia.
In the morning Roxana is panicked a moment as Gaer is not in his room. She's relieved as he returns, having already heated a kettle by the time he's back. She immediately gives him a smile. And once his load is set down she comes and gives him a tight hug. "Very good to see you this morning Gaer. And with a gift!"
She help out to whatever extent Gaer allows, especially in fetching the knives and utensils he needs. She also purists some bread and fruits, along with fresh milk for their meal.
There is no sign of Olivia.
Sitting to eat, Roxana nods. "Yes, we shouldn't take too long so we can join the others early. I'm ready to go over we get a bite here."
Gaer might notice that her long red hair has been well brushed and nearly braided this morning. She's wearing a nicer woolen dress than when you'd first met, perhaps a tiny bit less modest and showing off her figure. It's not exceptionally fancy, but a beautiful green color that matches her eyes.
Gaer returns the welcome hug, making it last a long time and gently running his hands over her back and shoulders to caress them. Even before getting lost in the scent of Roxana's hair he has already noticed how well he has taken care of the girl from Longsaddle's appearance... and he seems unable to take his eyes off the figure that her dress suggests!
"Oh, I was just looking for a tangible way to say 'thank you'... The real 'gift' was your impeccable hospitality!" he smiles, meanwhile "You really have beautiful green eyes..." he continues, in an admiring tone "you did well to wear that green wool dress! It has a color that matches them!"
The tiefling, however, seems well rested and freshly washed, but has not changed his clothes; he is still dressed in the modest clothing and old leather armor 'borrowed' from one of the Zhentarim who no longer needed them... They give him a somewhat wild look - but it is clear that in his case it was a choice of style... he simply couldn't do otherwise, given that his captors had taken practically everything from him!
Once breakfast is finished, while the couple sets off to reach the Sharnshield Mansion, Gaer, intrigued, jokes: "Where has Olivia gone? She hasn't gone to hire a new gang of Zhentarim to defend you from me, has she?"
Meanwhile, Spira, who had returned late to spend the night at the farm, follows them, silent and discreet, perhaps lost in her own thoughts.
Sharnshield Mansion (reunion):
You have just finished enjoying your breakfast, served by Thia, who has made an effort to get you anything you could think of to ask for.
Coming out of the common room, a timid sun announces a day perhaps less cold than usual, when you see Roxana and Gaer walking side by side, with Spira a few steps behind them, as they reach the Mansion and join you.
Just then Martha arrives too, accompanied by Dobbian, at her side, who holds her arm.
Behind them, some servants bring your reward and Martha and Dobbian are quite ready to explain in detail the characteristics of everything that is offered to you (OOC: The reward is for the whole party - to be shared among all as you see fit):
- 12pp - 24gp - 4 Sharnshield riding horses, with bit, bridle and saddle. Raised by the Sharnshield, these horses are exceptionally well-trained: practically fearless, they remain sensitive to the rider's commands even in the most critical situations and respond to the rider's slightest stimuli. - "Amazon's Guardian", a shield created by the Fey for the amazon heroine Hippolyta Sharnshield. The item is exquisitely crafted from a light, flexible metal, that glows with a pale radiance in moonlight. If the bearer is mounted, the shield grants them supernatural instincts, making it very unlikely that they will be caught off guard.
Also, Dobbian, finally realizing the enormity of what has happened, can't stop thanking you, sometimes shaking your hands vigorously, other times giving you a hug, anyway always with a dazzling smile... Plus, every time he looks at Martha , he has such adoring disbelief in his gaze...
"I really don't know how to thank you all..." he says "You, Martha," his green eyes inevitably return to her "Tamer of my Heart, I don't know how you managed, in your state, to find the strength to conceive and do... what you did. Negotiate with the Sharnshields and the Harpells, find the information, find the right people..."
"And you 'right people'," he addresses you "I still don't know how you did the right things... You were incredible! I am eternally in your debt... Only," he winks "don't ask me too to be the father of your children, okay? I'm no longer available for that role..."
Martha is the first to laugh at that joke and gives Dobbian a playful punch on her arm.
Seeing Dobbian definitely among the living again and the happiness of the couple you helped bring together in spite of an apparently hopeless situation, you finally fully realize what an incredible feat you have accomplished! By now your fame has gone around the entire city - perhaps it is already spreading, from gossip to gossip, to the neighboring towns... It's now official: in the eyes of the citizens of Longsaddle (and probably of the neighboring towns) you are undisputed heroes!
(OOC: Welcome to level 4! Feel free to level up! And since you just finished a Long Rest, you have access to whatever features or abilities the new level gives you)
(OOC: Of course, feel also free to keep role-playing between yourselves or with Martha and Dobbian)
Further away, at the edge of a fence, on a large black stallion, Adran Liadon is watching you... but he doesn't seem to be in a hurry to get closer - apparently he doesn't want to disturb you right now, while you are being deservedly rewarded.
Aidwyn enjoys the breakfast and the company of the others. When Lady Martha and Dobbian join them she shares their happiness and congratulate them again, thanking the little celestial for her incredible deed.
When the horses are presented to them she almost forgot the rest of them. She slowly walk towards them and almost with reverence allows them to smell her and she slowly pets them. They were impressive individuals, a white one, a brown one and a painted one, with a funny white mark around one of her eyes among the bron fur, but one of them looked at her and moved his ears when she approached him. A powerful stallion with a great golden mane and golden skin. The mucles of the horse were visible when he moves one leg and make some noise with his hoove to greet the young warrior. She approached her hand to him and the horse put his nose on it and when she reached out to his powerful neck the horse leaned his head over her shoulder. She giggled and enjoyed the feel of the warm skin of the horse and when she took a step back she looked at Lady Martha and the others with tears of emotion in her eyes.
"Can I... can I keep him?" she asked, her voice trembling with emotion.
"Up to you all how you want to divide the reward..." Martha giggles, pleased with the promptness with which stud and girl seem to have quickly made friends "but it sure seems like Sunny likes you, Aidwyn!"
"Evidently, he is an intelligent horse" comments Solitude.
Once clear of, the farm, Spira quickened her pace. She did have to change Lady Martha's tea almost immediately, by the slightly strained looks inward she'd seen the first signs of in the crypt. Fortunately, though, she didn't think she'd have to scramble for the final painkillers and muscle tonics/relaxants for at least a little while. When she'd left Longsaddle the first time she'd feared nothing so much as returning empty-handed to a widowed mother already in the throes of labor. She smiled to herself. She would have time to arrange several things properly now.
At the Sharnshield mansion, Spira is quite clear that Lady Martha need not be bothered since her entire errand is to deliver herbs to Thia that will help Lady Martha rest. But once she does, she looks the half-elven girl in the eye. "You do a wonderful job caring for Lady Martha, Thia. You certainly care about her: and more. I see the healers' touch in your hands and in the light behind your eyes. You care enough to want to make things better for everyone." She gets a speculative look in her eyes and gazes at the stars in the ceiling. "But you do seem to excel at caring for Lady Martha. You'll probably need a regular source of herbs in the process." Her eyes become even more abstract and hypothetical. "You know, my brother probably is still a bit too spooked by civilization to settle down per se, but it just occurred to me that we've never tried using a nice village ... oh, something like this ... as a home base and wandering around in the area helping people. I could suggest something like that to him. And he is really good at finding herbs, going by the evidence of the chopping board in front of him right now. Even better when he has someone to help him, and I did just also hear him admit that he and Roxana 'work well together.' " The innocence in Spira's eyes as she says this last is deep enough to drown a remorhaz in.
This done, she returns to the farm to lie in bed until near dawn and then go rambling over the whole place, religiously closing all gates and returning punctually at breakfast time with an appetite like three remorhaz.
"I've never really been much of a horse charmer..."he says thoughtfully. "Anita, do you happen to be any better with animals than I am? If not... maybe it would be for the best if we just ask for an extra share of the coins instead..."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
Roxana's Farm:
Gaer begins to fear that he has done something wrong, while the girl from Longsaddle conducts her examination of his work... his features begin to show traces of doubt and apprehension... until she starts laughing!
"Oh, I see!" the tiefling pretends to be indignant "You wanted to get revenge for when I pretended there weren't the Purple Flags, right, Roxana? Well, you know what?" but he too bursts out laughing "You did well!" and he puts his arm around her waist, gently pulling her into contact with him "A day without laughter is like a roast without salt" and his lips seek hers for another kiss.
"Quspira, you say?" Gaer looks around once again... but he doesn't see her "Maybe she preferred to leave discreetly to give us greater intimacy..." the look of those scleralless full black eyes softens "You know, we make fun of each other, but deep down... we have a strong bond. Quspira gave up her previous job for me - a job that meant a lot to her. And she must have understood that..." he searches for the right words - apparently in difficulty "Yes, well... I've met other girls before... Even though I always tried to be more careful than Rash about consequences... Some were pretty like you... Some were witty like you... Some had a quick mind like yours... But none, none of these would survive more of a minute to the life I live. With no one I have ever imagined a... a future longer than the night we kept each other company. With you... With you I can't get out of my head how wonderful it would be to continue to have you next to me. Quspira knows me. She must have understood it".
When Olivia answers the dinner call, the improvised cook can't help but smile, both at the initial insinuation and at the comment on Roxana's regard for 'the guests' - apparently reduced to just one guest, now.
Venison, beer and cake are a success, so much so that Gaer feels like commenting, while he is savoring the cake at the end of the dinner: "Despite the disparity of means, I think that this dinner has nothing to envy of the one that Martha is offering to our adventure companions at the Sharnshield Mansion... Thank you Roxana! You were truly a perfect host".
After having also enjoyed the cake and drunk a few more beers in company between one chat and another, the tiefling says to Roxana: "I'll help you wash cutlery and pots and tidy up; it will be quicker in two...".
'...And we'll have more time for ourselves' is the obvious conclusion of the sentence; not pronounced aloud, but easily understood.
Sharnshield Mansion (Rash & Anita):
"Yes, I understand..." Anita finishes her cup, together with Rash, then crouches against him, under the blankets, holding the even more massive half-orc close to her and softly caressing his hair, until she cradles him in the sleep.
Then she falls asleep too.
Olivia seems to enjoy the dinner and joins in the conversations a little bit. She's quiet much of the time though, her eyes darting from Gaer to Roxana.
"The meal was very good, Gaer. I'm impressed," Roxana comments, giving the Tiefling a smile as she finishes up. She had only refilled her cup with beer from the pitcher once, drinking it slowly. Olivia had several cups, despite a couple disapproving looks grin her sister.
After the cake, Olivia does express her appreciation. "That was quite good, both of you. Despite all your messing around. The cake was my favorite, as always." She leans back a bit in her chair. "I mean, I was going to make myself something just like it..."
Roxana suddenly jumps in, "No you weren't!"
Olivia laughs. "Ok, I probably wouldn't have. Anyway, what now?"
"Well, it is getting late. I'll be wanting to get some rest soon." Roxana first looks to Olivia. "You want to head off for the night?" There's an unspoken look between the two sisters, then Roxana turns to Gaer. "I can show you to your room."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard ||
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer || Bronnryn Hethgar, Cleric
"I wouldn't say she is a pet, more than an ally..." Aidwyn replies to Solitudes " But I kind of like her... you" she turns to Balbfy to include her in the conversation "She makes quite the impression" she chuckles" and I think we could do good things together... the three of us... "
PbP Character: A few ;)
After whispering her big-sisterly advice to Roxana, Spira lapses almost completely into the role of silent supporter: so much and so docilely so, indeed, that Gaer shoots her a long suspicious look at one point. But the goofy grin he surprises on her face with that look is an expression he can't remember seeing there since their childhood together before they found how broken and imperfect the world is sometimes; and he instantly understands and wholeheartedly agrees. He deserves a little happiness himself after so long a time wandering to heal the wounds others suffered from the broken world; Roxana deserves more than a little ... they deserve more than a little. And there's a certain quality to Spira's grin that says she hasn't given up on a little happiness for her own self yet either; and perhaps she might take the time someday to track down that lost comrade none of the companions had the heart to name, the white-haired warrior who vanished in a cloud of shadows like echoes of his own soul's darkness just as success was within reach and Zentromya standing literally feet away.
If Roxana is not too mesmerized by Gaer, she may note that many of the roots and herbs he uses are smoothly trimmed and chopped (or sliced, or diced) by his sister and placed in front of him just before he reaches for them. This is done almost as smoothly as the way she melts into a shadow and disappears just before Olivia returns and gives the couple some moments alone. When Olivia notes her absence, the younger sister's inquisitive eyes quickly spot a note neatly pinned to the cutting board she had been using.
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Roxana's Farm:
"I agree with Olivia," Gaer admits "the cake was the best thing!"
When Roxana offers to show him to his room, the tiefling smiles: "How could I refuse such a courtesy? Of course!"
Once in the room, Gaer considers: "Comfortable... Cozy... Seems like the ideal place to keep good company and continue unfinished conversations... Come in, Roxana," he invites her, ready to close the door behind of them "let's stay together for a while".
Sharnshield Mansion (Aidwyn, Balfby & Solitude):
"It's my job, to 'make the impression', Mistress!" Balfby chuckles telepathically "We Yeth Hounds chase and frighten our prey until we take away all their strength and ability to react. And the taste of fear, Mistress! If you tasted it, how delicious it is! Mauling our frightened prey to pieces is the greatest pleasure for us... a short pleasure, unfortunately, but so intense..." the beast's mouth waters.
"Yes, Mistress..." the beast of darkness and nightmare approves, always telepathically "We will do many good things together... Chase... Scare... Tear... Kill... I like to do good things for you, Mistress!"
Meanwhile, completely unaware of the telepathic dialogue taking place, Solitude looks at Aidwyn with a mixture of admiration and respect in her scleralless golden eyes: "Good things... I doubt that Balfby could recognize a 'good thing' even if she found it tied to her tail with a bow!"
"You really are..." she searches for the right words, without taking her eyes off the other's "...a candid soul. Probably, if a mortal could ever make Balfby do good deeds, it's you".
"You vaguely remind me of Milo, in some ways - no offense. With the difference" she smiles smugly "that at least you, when you realize that the rest of the world is not as good and pure as you had imagined, have the strength to fight and straighten it out, instead of curling up in a fetal position and letting the surrounding evil kick you undisturbed!"
Roxana hesitates just inside the doorway after Gaer has gone inside. Her eyes don't leave him as he speaks, but she has a look of turmoil on her face. "Gaer that sounds lovely, but..." She sighs, glancing away a moment down the hall before slowly looking back. "I kind of need to catch up with Livy and talk to her a bit. I sort of already agreed." Slowly she steps forward, putting her arms around Gaer's waist. "You do understand, right?" She briefly gives him a peck on the cheek, then looks into his deep black eyes. Her face still so very close to his.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard ||
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer || Bronnryn Hethgar, Cleric
Roxana's Farm:
"Oh, well..." Gaer doesn't seem to know what to say at first, trying to hide his disappointment... but then he forces his features to relax into a smile again "Of course, I understand. By the way , from the conversations I've heard, it's understandable that you want to take the time necessary to find the right decision. But I have no doubt that you will be able to find it" he discloses his lips once again, joining them with those of the gracious host for a more passionate and less chaste than the one just received. "Good night, then..." he wishes her, when they part again "see you tomorrow" he doesn't close the door right away... those scleralless darknight eyes don't leave her... until she goes out of sight.
The following morning, although the end of winter is still far away, a timid sun announces a day perhaps less cold than usual.
Gaer must have decided to take advantage of the opportunity to make a small contribution to the breakfast, because he returns to the farm with a fox that he managed to kill and a load of strawberry tree berries. "Here, taste them girls!" he puts the berries on the table "In winter nature is not very much generous, with nourishment... but the strawberry tree, fortunately, provides its berries" in the meantime, he hurries to clean and roast the fox. "We'd better hurry, Roxana," he remarks. "Martha's well-deserved reward awaits you! You've already had a taste of the potential risks of the job... it's only right that now you also realize the extent of the rewards!"
Sharnshield Mansion (all):
Even the heroes who have spent the night in the luxury of the Sharnshield Mansion are awakened by the pleasant surprise of a sun that seem maybe a bit uncertain but is, at least, determined enough to show itself at dawn.
Balfby is probably the only one not too enthusiastic about its appearance and does her best to curl up in the shadows: "As I have already explained to you, Mistress, I cannot exist, in the light of the sun... but do not fear, as you already know, I'll get to you as soon as darkness allow".
Thia is happy to accompany you all to the common room where you had dinner the night, where Zentromya, who enters from the outside - who knows where she might have been - joins you. The half-elf young girl finds a table large enough for all of you and, seeming almost... to vibrate... with impatience to please you, she asks you with a big smile: "So, what do true heroes like you eat for breakfast? Eat and drink your fill! Martha and Dobbian will be down soon to reward you!"
Aidwyn tries to cover the window the best she could with the curtains and make the room as comfortable to Balbfy as she could. She then instructs the servants no t to enter in the room without her. She makes sure they understand the instructions and that everyone is aware of that. She the finally joins the others at breakfast.
"Some scrambled eggs and bread please... and fruit! what do you want?" she asks to Solitude.
PbP Character: A few ;)
Rash yawns, then considers his breakfast options.
"Hmmm... I think I'd like some smoked sausages and hash browns," Rash says after a moment. "Anita, what are you in the mood for?"
Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
Provide feedback!
Sharnshield Mansion (all):
Solitude seems pleasantly surprised: "Can I really order everything I want? It's a pleasant change from the usual... that is, seeing what I can gulp down quickly before having to run away from the usual exalted person who starts shouting 'on the daughter of Asmodeus!' So... let me think then, dear Thia... Yes, I'd say you could bring me some cheese, butter, olives, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, jam and... maybe even a little honey? Finally, if you could even get me some spiced sausage..."
"Yesterday Anita told me what you had to go through" the young half-elf girl looks fearlessly and with affection into those eyes that so many others find demonic "and I can assure you that every time you are here within these walls, the forces of the entire house Sharnshield will ensure your safety - even bothering the Harpells if necessary. You can relax and feel safe here, Solitude. And what you requested for coloration won't get me into trouble!" she winks "I may have to make more than one tour, but I will bring you everything you asked for! Miss Martha didn't make me her personal servant for nothing..."
And indeed, the half-breed whirlwind goes, calls, turns, returns and, little by little, brings to the table everything Aidwyn and Solitude desire.
"I..." Solitude seems amazed "Thank you, Thia. You... you are truly a dear girl".
But Thia is already focused on the other party members: "And you, my brave ones? What do you want me to bring you? Today it's my turn" she jokes, smiling "to quest for you!"
Zentromya telepathically informs Thia and the party: "I, as a messenger of Elysium, have no need to feed - but the purity of your heart gives me more satisfaction than any delicacy you can bring me, Thia".
Thia blushes and murmurs a thank you, only to then encourage the others: "Good! But we also have a good number of non-celestials here... right?"
So Anita decides: "A cake! I don't know how long it's been since I had the opportunity to eat a cake... I mean, not one all for myself... a slice or two..."
“Maybe delicately spiced cinnamon apple pie?” suggests the half-elf servant "Yesterday Martha had the cooks prepare one for her... and obviously she didn't eat it all..."
"Yes!" the ex-Zhentarim enthusiastically approves "It must be delicious! Do you want a slice for yourself too, Rash?"
"Well... yes, I'll take a slice," Rash says with a smile. "It's been a while since I've indulged the old sweet tooth..."
Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
Provide feedback!
Seeing the ever well predisposed Thia so busy Aidwyn stands and helps her bringing everyone's orders and she doesn't accept a negative from the half-elven girl
"You said we could have anything we wanted my good Thia, and what I want is help you serve my friends a well deserved breakfast.. " she says with a wink to Solitude.
PbP Character: A few ;)
Sharnshield Mansion (all):
Thia was initially trying to protest, but Aidwyn's words make her capitulate with a hearty laugh: "So, brave Aidwyn, what I brought you wasn't enough for your breakfast? You want to eat... my workplace also? Be my guest then, but be careful... if I get fired because they hire you... then I'll start doing the heroine around in your place!" and she bursts out laughing once again.
(OOC: @OisinmacCameron: Up to you if Spira spent the night at the Sharnshield Mansion or if she returned to Roxana's Farm attracted by the cake... Feel free to post in the environment you prefer)
Roxana seems to linger for some time in Gaer's embrace. But eventually she parts from him, even if a bit reluctantly. "Yes, I will certainly see you in the morning."
As she hears down the hall, she keeps her bright green eyes focused on his. She hesitates as she about to turn the corner. In fact it almost seems like she might have changed her mind and will come back before she finally disappears from Gaer's sight.
She slips off to find Olivia.
In the morning Roxana is panicked a moment as Gaer is not in his room. She's relieved as he returns, having already heated a kettle by the time he's back. She immediately gives him a smile. And once his load is set down she comes and gives him a tight hug. "Very good to see you this morning Gaer. And with a gift!"
She help out to whatever extent Gaer allows, especially in fetching the knives and utensils he needs. She also purists some bread and fruits, along with fresh milk for their meal.
There is no sign of Olivia.
Sitting to eat, Roxana nods. "Yes, we shouldn't take too long so we can join the others early. I'm ready to go over we get a bite here."
Gaer might notice that her long red hair has been well brushed and nearly braided this morning. She's wearing a nicer woolen dress than when you'd first met, perhaps a tiny bit less modest and showing off her figure. It's not exceptionally fancy, but a beautiful green color that matches her eyes.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard ||
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer || Bronnryn Hethgar, Cleric
Roxana's Farm:
Gaer's Perception: 21
Roxana's Farm:
Gaer returns the welcome hug, making it last a long time and gently running his hands over her back and shoulders to caress them. Even before getting lost in the scent of Roxana's hair he has already noticed how well he has taken care of the girl from Longsaddle's appearance... and he seems unable to take his eyes off the figure that her dress suggests!
"Oh, I was just looking for a tangible way to say 'thank you'... The real 'gift' was your impeccable hospitality!" he smiles, meanwhile "You really have beautiful green eyes..." he continues, in an admiring tone "you did well to wear that green wool dress! It has a color that matches them!"
The tiefling, however, seems well rested and freshly washed, but has not changed his clothes; he is still dressed in the modest clothing and old leather armor 'borrowed' from one of the Zhentarim who no longer needed them... They give him a somewhat wild look - but it is clear that in his case it was a choice of style... he simply couldn't do otherwise, given that his captors had taken practically everything from him!
Once breakfast is finished, while the couple sets off to reach the Sharnshield Mansion, Gaer, intrigued, jokes: "Where has Olivia gone? She hasn't gone to hire a new gang of Zhentarim to defend you from me, has she?"
Meanwhile, Spira, who had returned late to spend the night at the farm, follows them, silent and discreet, perhaps lost in her own thoughts.
Sharnshield Mansion (reunion):
You have just finished enjoying your breakfast, served by Thia, who has made an effort to get you anything you could think of to ask for.
Coming out of the common room, a timid sun announces a day perhaps less cold than usual, when you see Roxana and Gaer walking side by side, with Spira a few steps behind them, as they reach the Mansion and join you.
Just then Martha arrives too, accompanied by Dobbian, at her side, who holds her arm.
Behind them, some servants bring your reward and Martha and Dobbian are quite ready to explain in detail the characteristics of everything that is offered to you (OOC: The reward is for the whole party - to be shared among all as you see fit):
- 12pp
- 24gp
- 4 Sharnshield riding horses, with bit, bridle and saddle. Raised by the Sharnshield, these horses are exceptionally well-trained: practically fearless, they remain sensitive to the rider's commands even in the most critical situations and respond to the rider's slightest stimuli.
- "Amazon's Guardian", a shield created by the Fey for the amazon heroine Hippolyta Sharnshield. The item is exquisitely crafted from a light, flexible metal, that glows with a pale radiance in moonlight. If the bearer is mounted, the shield grants them supernatural instincts, making it very unlikely that they will be caught off guard.
Also, Dobbian, finally realizing the enormity of what has happened, can't stop thanking you, sometimes shaking your hands vigorously, other times giving you a hug, anyway always with a dazzling smile... Plus, every time he looks at Martha , he has such adoring disbelief in his gaze...
"I really don't know how to thank you all..." he says "You, Martha," his green eyes inevitably return to her "Tamer of my Heart, I don't know how you managed, in your state, to find the strength to conceive and do... what you did. Negotiate with the Sharnshields and the Harpells, find the information, find the right people..."
"And you 'right people'," he addresses you "I still don't know how you did the right things... You were incredible! I am eternally in your debt... Only," he winks "don't ask me too to be the father of your children, okay? I'm no longer available for that role..."
Martha is the first to laugh at that joke and gives Dobbian a playful punch on her arm.
Seeing Dobbian definitely among the living again and the happiness of the couple you helped bring together in spite of an apparently hopeless situation, you finally fully realize what an incredible feat you have accomplished! By now your fame has gone around the entire city - perhaps it is already spreading, from gossip to gossip, to the neighboring towns... It's now official: in the eyes of the citizens of Longsaddle (and probably of the neighboring towns) you are undisputed heroes!
(OOC: Welcome to level 4! Feel free to level up! And since you just finished a Long Rest, you have access to whatever features or abilities the new level gives you)
(OOC: Of course, feel also free to keep role-playing between yourselves or with Martha and Dobbian)
Further away, at the edge of a fence, on a large black stallion, Adran Liadon is watching you... but he doesn't seem to be in a hurry to get closer - apparently he doesn't want to disturb you right now, while you are being deservedly rewarded.
Aidwyn enjoys the breakfast and the company of the others. When Lady Martha and Dobbian join them she shares their happiness and congratulate them again, thanking the little celestial for her incredible deed.
When the horses are presented to them she almost forgot the rest of them. She slowly walk towards them and almost with reverence allows them to smell her and she slowly pets them. They were impressive individuals, a white one, a brown one and a painted one, with a funny white mark around one of her eyes among the bron fur, but one of them looked at her and moved his ears when she approached him. A powerful stallion with a great golden mane and golden skin. The mucles of the horse were visible when he moves one leg and make some noise with his hoove to greet the young warrior. She approached her hand to him and the horse put his nose on it and when she reached out to his powerful neck the horse leaned his head over her shoulder. She giggled and enjoyed the feel of the warm skin of the horse and when she took a step back she looked at Lady Martha and the others with tears of emotion in her eyes.
"Can I... can I keep him?" she asked, her voice trembling with emotion.
PbP Character: A few ;)
"Up to you all how you want to divide the reward..." Martha giggles, pleased with the promptness with which stud and girl seem to have quickly made friends "but it sure seems like Sunny likes you, Aidwyn!"
"Evidently, he is an intelligent horse" comments Solitude.
Once clear of, the farm, Spira quickened her pace. She did have to change Lady Martha's tea almost immediately, by the slightly strained looks inward she'd seen the first signs of in the crypt. Fortunately, though, she didn't think she'd have to scramble for the final painkillers and muscle tonics/relaxants for at least a little while. When she'd left Longsaddle the first time she'd feared nothing so much as returning empty-handed to a widowed mother already in the throes of labor. She smiled to herself. She would have time to arrange several things properly now.
At the Sharnshield mansion, Spira is quite clear that Lady Martha need not be bothered since her entire errand is to deliver herbs to Thia that will help Lady Martha rest. But once she does, she looks the half-elven girl in the eye. "You do a wonderful job caring for Lady Martha, Thia. You certainly care about her: and more. I see the healers' touch in your hands and in the light behind your eyes. You care enough to want to make things better for everyone." She gets a speculative look in her eyes and gazes at the stars in the ceiling. "But you do seem to excel at caring for Lady Martha. You'll probably need a regular source of herbs in the process." Her eyes become even more abstract and hypothetical. "You know, my brother probably is still a bit too spooked by civilization to settle down per se, but it just occurred to me that we've never tried using a nice village ... oh, something like this ... as a home base and wandering around in the area helping people. I could suggest something like that to him. And he is really good at finding herbs, going by the evidence of the chopping board in front of him right now. Even better when he has someone to help him, and I did just also hear him admit that he and Roxana 'work well together.' " The innocence in Spira's eyes as she says this last is deep enough to drown a remorhaz in.
This done, she returns to the farm to lie in bed until near dawn and then go rambling over the whole place, religiously closing all gates and returning punctually at breakfast time with an appetite like three remorhaz.
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Rash scratches his head...
"I've never really been much of a horse charmer..." he says thoughtfully. "Anita, do you happen to be any better with animals than I am? If not... maybe it would be for the best if we just ask for an extra share of the coins instead..."
Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
Provide feedback!