Velon bites his tongue at Protanther's words but appreciates Elia's intervention. He is sure to thank her after the fact, and the Blaze is happy to accept the help of relocating the castle. In the meantime Velon is glad everyone will have one night to rest. He informs Irdeith that they plan to arrive in Waterdeep the next day if all goes well.
Morgaine listens to all that is said, nods her head in agreement as to the Blaze's next adventure and the castle being moved to a safer location. She is quiet otherwise until the Blaze comes together to talk about how to best handle the situation in Waterdeep.
Poljen frowns. "I can't keep them all straight. What contacts and resources do we already have in Waterdeep? That's not where I am no longer welcome for that street fight, is it?"
A few hours of work and coordination, one magically restored wing, a series of conjured steel chains, multiple strength enhancing spells, and four (semi/sort of/not really) willing dragons later, and Castle Skyreach lifts into the air once again. Protanther and Elia provide much of the lift from directly over the castle, while the other two provide stability near the edges. Poppo accelerates the craft to match the dragons' current flight speed, which is markedly slower than normal as you head east, out over the ocean
Soon enough, a landmass appears ahead. The island of Gwynneth resolves itself as a beautiful land of tall mountains, dramatic waterfalls, and verdant forests. The castle is gently set down in the hollow between two hills, near the mouth of a large valley.
All four dragons take off then, but Elia returns shortly, walking in human form with a pair of women that tower over her, standing easily twice her height. You would say that they are giantkin, but no giant you've seen had elfish ears, or blue skin. Thick, curly red hair covers much of their bodies like a pelt, with only a few bits of cloth and leather worn as clothing. One of the pair has a long cape that appears to be made out of woven grass, flowering vines, and other plants that are still alive and growing. Both have wide and easy smiles as they greet you. Elia makes the introductions, naming those who approached for the two firbolg woman. "This is Ravalee, and this is Caitris. They represent the Engelbror clan, and have agreed to watch over the castle while it is undergoing repair and keep some of the more troublesome inhabitants of these lands away.
Ravalee, the one with the living cloak, speaks up, her voice is deep and melodic, "I suggest caution when straying from the castle. Especially the males among your number, there is a dryad not far from here hoping for a new partner. As pleasant as such an interlude may be, dryads like to hold onto their mates for years at a time. Also, we will most likely not be able to prevent faerie dragons from approaching you, they are quite elusive when they care to be. They are rarely outright harmful unless threatened, but their pranks can be quite disruptive. The best advice I can give concerning them is to be boring. If they ask to for a bribe to go away, know that a pretty piece of glass is worth just as much to them as actual treasure."
"Whatever else happens, we ask that you not harm the inhabitants of this place, this is their home, and you the guest."
I should probably note that I've somewhat hybridized the lore concerning firbolgs. There's a stark difference between what they were before 5E and what they were presented as in 5E. Both representations had very interesting things, so I kind of grabbed both.
Lia beams at her companions as they see the island. " So beautiful...so so beautiful. This makes me miss my home. What do you think Velon? Could you live somewhere like this? "
As they approach and are introduced to the newcomers Lia bows to them. " Thank you for the hospitality. It is an honor to be allowed to visit here. Your land is wondrous and makes me long for my forest. " She smiles happily at them. " I hope to see some faerie dragons. It has been quite some time. " She glances at Poljen. " Pay heed to her warning unless you wish to never leave here. " She winks at him.
Mari looks around wide eyed at their surroundings. It all was unnerving to her. She felt much more comfortable in cities. This island had an unnerving feel about it.
Lawrance watches the proceedings with mild interest, the reduced castle speed a bit sad in his mind. As they approach the new parking spot, he eyes the land with a bit more interest, the lush land far more...alive... than any he'd previously encountered. As they settle in and start planning the long term repairs, he only pauses when the new species shows up. With markedly more interest than he's had for a while, he studies the newcomers with wide grins, stories and details of the Firbolg race running through his head from the mystical information source that supplies him. When introduced and informed about the terrain and it's inhabitants he adds afterwards "This is an amazing place! Thank you so very much for hosting our intrusion into your world, we won't over stay our welcome. A dryad you say? How...intriguing. And faerie dragons? I'll have the staff make up some honey cakes and other morsels that may make them enjoy visiting us. Nothing wrong with harmless pranks, in good humour."
Informing the staff and crew of the firbolgs warnings and advice, he gets back to working on the plans for getting their home back into a semblance of working order. Once that has commenced, he meets with the group at the appointed time, up on the platform where Poppo and he have been prepping the teleportation circle, ready to bring the magics to bear that will shorten the distances to a step.
OOC - Poppo can open a circle back when he gets a Sending from us. We should leave the Stone of Sending with him for that purpose.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?" "Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied ― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Morgaine eyes the land with a smile on her face; she feels wonder, excitement, and awe all at the same time. When she hears of the dangers in the land, she looks over at Poljen and gives him a stern look and then a wink and a small smile. She will only explore close to the castle unless in a group. Morgaine will attend the meeting once she knows when and where.
OoC: if any kind of checks are needed for Morgaine's exploration, let me know Dia.
Poljen bows and thanks the dragons for their hard work, and the firbolg for their welcome. He has no plans to explore. He will do what he can to help with the castle, until it is time to head for Waterdeep, and fresh adventure.
Seeing the beautiful Island that the dragons helped to get the castle to Cratol feels a little better about its safety. He will listen to the dragons warning and stay inside the castle walls not wanting to venture outside. He will be ready when the party decides to leave for waterdeep.
The castle staff are organized and given instruction to assist in essentially rebuilding said castle. Even with the assistance of magic, this would be no small task. Still though, they seem to be cheered by the peace and beauty of their surroundings. Perry volunteers to remain behind to help, although he seems worried and distracted by something.
The next morning, having rested after the fight, the spell to transport you all to Waterdeep is cast. The portal opens, and one by one, you step through.
You find yourself on an exposed hill just outside of the city walls, and in view of several watchtowers. Quite a few pairs of eyes watch as you leave the portal, though you are not challenged.
The grand city of splendors lies before you, a bustling port city, and the center of human civilization in this part of the world. Silas had asked to meet with you at the same place you had first met him, the Yawning Portal tavern. It seems that he's rather fond of that establishment.
Poljen stretches his arms, still sleepy. "Back where we started, eh?" He pauses before adding, "Well, for some of us. Come my friends. We should be relatively welcome here." He leads the way to the nearest gate. As they approached the wary guards he said, "Greetings! We are the Silver Blaze! Our goal today, The Yawning Portal!" He waits to see their reaction.
Lia looks upon the great city with a smile. " You are correcr Poljen. Yet again we are here. I am curious of what we will face here. It must be fairly serious to call upon us with such urgency. " She turns to speak to Perry and then her face drops. " Perry... I already miss him We need to make sure and keep notes for all we see and do here. He will expect it of us. "
The voluptuous redhead stands and looks down at the gates. Mari keeps her appearance disguised here also as she knows there are many Zhents in this city. " This ought to be fun. Skullduggery in the sewers. My kind of mission. "
Cratol looks at the city and thinks back to when he first visited this town before heading the Baulders gate. Plus the last time they were here. A lot has happened since that time and he is sure more is in story for them yet to come. He walks with the others down to the nearest gate to once again enter this city. He will walk with his staff but keep a wary eye out for trouble if such is to come at them.
Upon arrival in Waterdeep, Lawrance is smiling widely, remembering the intricate and unusual magic of the city and it's inhabitants. The controlling powers, hidden and mysterious in their operation and the figureheads that play the fool for the unknowing. As they walk to the city walls he recalls their quest "If we are going into the catacombs of Waterdeep, we should talk with the Eye Guild somehow. It's mainly their territory and we'll need permission to roam there. Mind you, it's massive enough that there are other guilds that have carved out sections, but from what I've heard, that's the easiest one to talk to. I also have heard there are more aboleths in some areas down below."
Gamliel, now in owl form, is perched easily on the wizard's shoulder, head swiveling as he watches the people and buildings.
-Welcome to Waterdeep, the heart of chaos on Abeir-Toril.-The celestial mind-spoke.
#Come now, Gamliel! It's not that bad. For every dark heart here, there's at least two righteous ones.#
-Only as long as they don't piss off the dark ones. I've never liked it here, so let's get done what needs doing and leave.-
At that, Aisling also pipes into the mental chatter. *Why do you not like it here? It seems like a nice city, if a bit busy.*
-Every second building has a trap, and every third one has some creature or other that shouldn't be allowed near civilization. Everyone and their pet mimic uses magic items and permanent spells. One large explosion or fire, and rifts to multiple universes would open, scattering people and debris across dozens of planes. You think sewers are messy? Wait until you get to see what a chaos dump of magic looks like!-
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?" "Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied ― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
The group makes their way to the Yawning Portal, the famous tavern run by one of Waterdeep's most successful adventurers.
The gaping pit that gave the inn its name remains as you left it, a dark hole into the underground warrens, infested by all manner of nasty creatures.
Looking around, you spot Silas sitting at a table in back, dressed in well maintained but unassuming gear, the picture of an ordinary mercenary. He looks... tired.
No doubt the group is recognized, probably even recalled as having left through the pit last time. Poljen steps to the bar and orders several pitchers of ale, and enough mugs for the group, minus one, as he intends to do his usual move of drinking from one pitcher himself.
He sits down, with two pitchers in each hand and says with little inflection, "Silas. Good to see you. Ale?"
Mari looks guardedly at Silas. She strides languidly over to the table and takes a seat. She nods at him.
Lia grins as they see their friend yet again. Joining the others at the table she speaks to Silas. " Hello again friend. I hope that we have arrived in time. "
Pulling an available chair up, Lawrance sits down ordering a wine and some cheeses for snacking. Waiting for SIlas to begin the conference, he studies the being, seeing the stresses that this extended conflict have caused. With Gamliel ensconced on a top point of the inn and keeping watch, he chats with Aisling until the table needs his attention.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?" "Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied ― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Silas accepts the ale, but only takes a token quaff before setting it aside. As Lia asks her question he nods, "Trust me, you'd know if it were too late. Abbadon rifts tend to be... obvious. I've set up a few wards down below the city, they should pinpoint the site of the ritual as soon as they get started, although I would prefer it if we found the group before that happens. I've gone looking around down there twice now, but there are hundreds of miles of regular sewer tunnel, and even more in the way of natural fissures and stuff dug out by various groups over the centuries."
"We can rule out some of it, I questioned one of Xanathar's boys, just to be sure. They aren't running the show anywhere in the old windbag's territory."
Velon bites his tongue at Protanther's words but appreciates Elia's intervention. He is sure to thank her after the fact, and the Blaze is happy to accept the help of relocating the castle. In the meantime Velon is glad everyone will have one night to rest. He informs Irdeith that they plan to arrive in Waterdeep the next day if all goes well.
Morgaine listens to all that is said, nods her head in agreement as to the Blaze's next adventure and the castle being moved to a safer location. She is quiet otherwise until the Blaze comes together to talk about how to best handle the situation in Waterdeep.
Poljen frowns. "I can't keep them all straight. What contacts and resources do we already have in Waterdeep? That's not where I am no longer welcome for that street fight, is it?"
A few hours of work and coordination, one magically restored wing, a series of conjured steel chains, multiple strength enhancing spells, and four (semi/sort of/not really) willing dragons later, and Castle Skyreach lifts into the air once again. Protanther and Elia provide much of the lift from directly over the castle, while the other two provide stability near the edges. Poppo accelerates the craft to match the dragons' current flight speed, which is markedly slower than normal as you head east, out over the ocean
Soon enough, a landmass appears ahead. The island of Gwynneth resolves itself as a beautiful land of tall mountains, dramatic waterfalls, and verdant forests. The castle is gently set down in the hollow between two hills, near the mouth of a large valley.
All four dragons take off then, but Elia returns shortly, walking in human form with a pair of women that tower over her, standing easily twice her height. You would say that they are giantkin, but no giant you've seen had elfish ears, or blue skin. Thick, curly red hair covers much of their bodies like a pelt, with only a few bits of cloth and leather worn as clothing. One of the pair has a long cape that appears to be made out of woven grass, flowering vines, and other plants that are still alive and growing. Both have wide and easy smiles as they greet you. Elia makes the introductions, naming those who approached for the two firbolg woman. "This is Ravalee, and this is Caitris. They represent the Engelbror clan, and have agreed to watch over the castle while it is undergoing repair and keep some of the more troublesome inhabitants of these lands away.
Ravalee, the one with the living cloak, speaks up, her voice is deep and melodic, "I suggest caution when straying from the castle. Especially the males among your number, there is a dryad not far from here hoping for a new partner. As pleasant as such an interlude may be, dryads like to hold onto their mates for years at a time. Also, we will most likely not be able to prevent faerie dragons from approaching you, they are quite elusive when they care to be. They are rarely outright harmful unless threatened, but their pranks can be quite disruptive. The best advice I can give concerning them is to be boring. If they ask to for a bribe to go away, know that a pretty piece of glass is worth just as much to them as actual treasure."
"Whatever else happens, we ask that you not harm the inhabitants of this place, this is their home, and you the guest."
I should probably note that I've somewhat hybridized the lore concerning firbolgs. There's a stark difference between what they were before 5E and what they were presented as in 5E. Both representations had very interesting things, so I kind of grabbed both.
Lia beams at her companions as they see the island. " So beautiful...so so beautiful. This makes me miss my home. What do you think Velon? Could you live somewhere like this? "
As they approach and are introduced to the newcomers Lia bows to them. " Thank you for the hospitality. It is an honor to be allowed to visit here. Your land is wondrous and makes me long for my forest. " She smiles happily at them. " I hope to see some faerie dragons. It has been quite some time. " She glances at Poljen. " Pay heed to her warning unless you wish to never leave here. " She winks at him.
Mari looks around wide eyed at their surroundings. It all was unnerving to her. She felt much more comfortable in cities. This island had an unnerving feel about it.
Lawrance watches the proceedings with mild interest, the reduced castle speed a bit sad in his mind. As they approach the new parking spot, he eyes the land with a bit more interest, the lush land far more...alive... than any he'd previously encountered. As they settle in and start planning the long term repairs, he only pauses when the new species shows up. With markedly more interest than he's had for a while, he studies the newcomers with wide grins, stories and details of the Firbolg race running through his head from the mystical information source that supplies him. When introduced and informed about the terrain and it's inhabitants he adds afterwards "This is an amazing place! Thank you so very much for hosting our intrusion into your world, we won't over stay our welcome. A dryad you say? How...intriguing. And faerie dragons? I'll have the staff make up some honey cakes and other morsels that may make them enjoy visiting us. Nothing wrong with harmless pranks, in good humour."
Informing the staff and crew of the firbolgs warnings and advice, he gets back to working on the plans for getting their home back into a semblance of working order. Once that has commenced, he meets with the group at the appointed time, up on the platform where Poppo and he have been prepping the teleportation circle, ready to bring the magics to bear that will shorten the distances to a step.
OOC - Poppo can open a circle back when he gets a Sending from us. We should leave the Stone of Sending with him for that purpose.
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?"
"Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied
― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Morgaine eyes the land with a smile on her face; she feels wonder, excitement, and awe all at the same time. When she hears of the dangers in the land, she looks over at Poljen and gives him a stern look and then a wink and a small smile. She will only explore close to the castle unless in a group. Morgaine will attend the meeting once she knows when and where.
OoC: if any kind of checks are needed for Morgaine's exploration, let me know Dia.
Poljen bows and thanks the dragons for their hard work, and the firbolg for their welcome. He has no plans to explore. He will do what he can to help with the castle, until it is time to head for Waterdeep, and fresh adventure.
Lia looks mischievously at Velon. " Would you like to explore the island a little with me my love? I will keep you safe from any harm. "
Seeing the beautiful Island that the dragons helped to get the castle to Cratol feels a little better about its safety. He will listen to the dragons warning and stay inside the castle walls not wanting to venture outside. He will be ready when the party decides to leave for waterdeep.
The castle staff are organized and given instruction to assist in essentially rebuilding said castle. Even with the assistance of magic, this would be no small task. Still though, they seem to be cheered by the peace and beauty of their surroundings. Perry volunteers to remain behind to help, although he seems worried and distracted by something.
The next morning, having rested after the fight, the spell to transport you all to Waterdeep is cast. The portal opens, and one by one, you step through.
You find yourself on an exposed hill just outside of the city walls, and in view of several watchtowers. Quite a few pairs of eyes watch as you leave the portal, though you are not challenged.
The grand city of splendors lies before you, a bustling port city, and the center of human civilization in this part of the world. Silas had asked to meet with you at the same place you had first met him, the Yawning Portal tavern. It seems that he's rather fond of that establishment.
Poljen stretches his arms, still sleepy. "Back where we started, eh?" He pauses before adding, "Well, for some of us. Come my friends. We should be relatively welcome here." He leads the way to the nearest gate. As they approached the wary guards he said, "Greetings! We are the Silver Blaze! Our goal today, The Yawning Portal!" He waits to see their reaction.
Lia looks upon the great city with a smile. " You are correcr Poljen. Yet again we are here. I am curious of what we will face here. It must be fairly serious to call upon us with such urgency. " She turns to speak to Perry and then her face drops. " Perry... I already miss him We need to make sure and keep notes for all we see and do here. He will expect it of us. "
The voluptuous redhead stands and looks down at the gates. Mari keeps her appearance disguised here also as she knows there are many Zhents in this city. " This ought to be fun. Skullduggery in the sewers. My kind of mission. "
Cratol looks at the city and thinks back to when he first visited this town before heading the Baulders gate. Plus the last time they were here. A lot has happened since that time and he is sure more is in story for them yet to come. He walks with the others down to the nearest gate to once again enter this city. He will walk with his staff but keep a wary eye out for trouble if such is to come at them.
Upon arrival in Waterdeep, Lawrance is smiling widely, remembering the intricate and unusual magic of the city and it's inhabitants. The controlling powers, hidden and mysterious in their operation and the figureheads that play the fool for the unknowing. As they walk to the city walls he recalls their quest "If we are going into the catacombs of Waterdeep, we should talk with the Eye Guild somehow. It's mainly their territory and we'll need permission to roam there. Mind you, it's massive enough that there are other guilds that have carved out sections, but from what I've heard, that's the easiest one to talk to. I also have heard there are more aboleths in some areas down below."
Gamliel, now in owl form, is perched easily on the wizard's shoulder, head swiveling as he watches the people and buildings.
-Welcome to Waterdeep, the heart of chaos on Abeir-Toril.- The celestial mind-spoke.
#Come now, Gamliel! It's not that bad. For every dark heart here, there's at least two righteous ones.#
-Only as long as they don't piss off the dark ones. I've never liked it here, so let's get done what needs doing and leave.-
At that, Aisling also pipes into the mental chatter. *Why do you not like it here? It seems like a nice city, if a bit busy.*
-Every second building has a trap, and every third one has some creature or other that shouldn't be allowed near civilization. Everyone and their pet mimic uses magic items and permanent spells. One large explosion or fire, and rifts to multiple universes would open, scattering people and debris across dozens of planes. You think sewers are messy? Wait until you get to see what a chaos dump of magic looks like!-
*Oh* she answers in a small voice.
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?"
"Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied
― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
The group makes their way to the Yawning Portal, the famous tavern run by one of Waterdeep's most successful adventurers.
The gaping pit that gave the inn its name remains as you left it, a dark hole into the underground warrens, infested by all manner of nasty creatures.
Looking around, you spot Silas sitting at a table in back, dressed in well maintained but unassuming gear, the picture of an ordinary mercenary. He looks... tired.
No doubt the group is recognized, probably even recalled as having left through the pit last time. Poljen steps to the bar and orders several pitchers of ale, and enough mugs for the group, minus one, as he intends to do his usual move of drinking from one pitcher himself.
He sits down, with two pitchers in each hand and says with little inflection, "Silas. Good to see you. Ale?"
Mari looks guardedly at Silas. She strides languidly over to the table and takes a seat. She nods at him.
Lia grins as they see their friend yet again. Joining the others at the table she speaks to Silas. " Hello again friend. I hope that we have arrived in time. "
Pulling an available chair up, Lawrance sits down ordering a wine and some cheeses for snacking. Waiting for SIlas to begin the conference, he studies the being, seeing the stresses that this extended conflict have caused. With Gamliel ensconced on a top point of the inn and keeping watch, he chats with Aisling until the table needs his attention.
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?"
"Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied
― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Silas accepts the ale, but only takes a token quaff before setting it aside. As Lia asks her question he nods, "Trust me, you'd know if it were too late. Abbadon rifts tend to be... obvious. I've set up a few wards down below the city, they should pinpoint the site of the ritual as soon as they get started, although I would prefer it if we found the group before that happens. I've gone looking around down there twice now, but there are hundreds of miles of regular sewer tunnel, and even more in the way of natural fissures and stuff dug out by various groups over the centuries."
"We can rule out some of it, I questioned one of Xanathar's boys, just to be sure. They aren't running the show anywhere in the old windbag's territory."