"I like what you are thinking, Neya. Praxx... The Black First are evil.. We have seen things as Utar describes. This is not the first time and will not be the last time they will be purged."
Graxx will walk with the group... While they are walking Graxx says.
"I do feel like we are starting to make a difference. Before it felt almost hopeless fighting against so much evil in this world... Even with the difficulties that arose I feel like we did something good here. Giving the lighthouse back it's light and purging this statue."
Graxx puts his hand to his chin.
"Which makes me think... Even though I'm not a big fan of magic. We couldn't have done this without the music wizard. With Drazzim and Praxx gone we are going to need to recruit some new folks. From what I've seen so far we really do need to find a magic user. I'm just not sure how common they are and what type we need. Our swords, maces, and fists can only get us so far. From what we have been facing, we will need all the help we can get."
"There is also the issue of other shape-shifters we may encounter. We will need another answer to them other than magic users."
"It was difficult to even cause lasting damage to Rorin before we decided to incapacitate him. I do recall that silver coins causing him pain... Perhaps there is someone on the mainland who is able apply the metal to mundane weapons?"
Praxx to Graxx: "How are you so sure the Black Fist are evil? Haven't we just agreed that our world and the people within it are all shades of gray? A few interactions do not define an entire group of people. If it did, we would be enemies right now."
Praxx to Neya: "You'll need a good blacksmith for that. I've heard of silvered weapons in tales and songs before, but I'm sure it'd require a certain type of skill... and gold... and silver, of course."
As the group leaves the main chamber, Utar turns around for a final look at the aftermath. Before he turns to leave this place for good, something catches the corner of his eye (I'm using passive perception for this). It is a wooden stick with a metal tip on the ground just next to the ritual table in front of the pool of dark water (I recommend re-reading this post).
”I’m sorry music wizard. I haven’t heard you call to a god so like many music lovers I bet your god is in your trousers so you may not understand.”
”How do I know the Black Fist are evil? Because you are the company you keep. Drazzim did something we disagree with, he was removed from the group. We did not agree with what he did.”
”Utar follows Torm. A nice good god whom we have read about this journey.”
”Neya follows the Elder Tree which also seems to be fairly good.”
Graxx laughs slightly.
”Now... I suppose my God is a little morally grey because Tempus doesn’t care what you are fighting for just that you fight well... However! He strictly forbid any form of torture. Once a battle is one it is over. There is no pillaging or salting of the earth. We are not to attack certain followers of peaceful gods.”
Graxx then makes a fist near his chest.
”Then you have Bane who the Black Fist worship. An evil god of fear and tyranny! You can see it in how they rule this land! If they did not agree with it then they should find other employment. But no, they partake in these practices and oppress the people of this region. They have chosen Bane and therefore have chosen Evil.”
"As stubborn as ever, I see"Praxx scoffs at Graxx."Those deformed muscles of yours are getting into your tiny brain, acolyte of Tempus! The Black Fist used to worship Bane, that is true. But the knightly order abandoned their following years ago. All of Phlan knows that. From the stories you've shared with me, all proof you have is your own testimony of a small group of Black Fists who still clung to their old practices is some hidden temple you have already destroyed, so that is not going to serve as proof of anything either. You walk around town accusing the order of the Lord Regent himself, and you'll end up in a dungeon somewhere."
Once he is done with his warning, Praxx takes a quick look at the wand and says to Utar: "I don't know what kind of spell may be charged into that stick, but that metal tip is clearly made of silver. Perhaps it can aid you in silvering your weapons," he clearly jests.
"Glad to see your sense of humour hasn't abandoned you, Master Gnome! I'll save this wand for identification at a later time."
Turning to Graxx, he lays a hand on his shoulder.
"Praxx is also correct in his assessment of the Black Fist. Some hold to Bane, that is clear. But I doubt it is all. Some hold to older ways or other gods and while I do not doubt your resolve to see all the Black Fist including the Lord Regent driven from Phlan, I think their numbers would overwhelm even you. It is wise to continue as we are, find help, do what we can. Avoid being thrown into a dungeon... Or worse..."
Graxx looks annoyed at Praxx and looks like he will be making a rebuttal but when Utar places his hand on his shoulder the Barbarian settles.
"As you wish, Utar... I will stay my blade... For now. If it is against the will of the party it is against my will as well."
Graxx looks for a moment as if his eyes glaze over if he is going to the past.
"I have seen what happens when an Evil God has any type of foothold. It grows and grows like a disease until it overtakes everyone. I do not want to see that again."
The conversation carries on as the group exits the underground temple. By now, everyone has a good understanding of how the sinkhole works, and where the danger spots are. You each make your way past the natural trap successfully this time around. You then repeat the process of temporarily dispelling the stone slab, placing the ladder just so, and leaving through the opening above you. Once the magical slab reappears, you all look back and hope no one will ever find their way into that decrepit place ever again.
Making your way back to the Manor, you find Drazzim and Rupert all ready to go. The fisherman is clearly not too thrilled about leaving: "Are y'all sure you don't need to look around some more... another day, or perhaps another tenday... please? I don't want to go back..."
Shandra and Darvag are standing by the door as well. They don't seem too scared anymore, so you can assume Drazzim told them the evil spirits were dispelled. Rorin is ready to go too. He has a backpack on his back, though his parents look a bit confused: "Wheredoyouthinkyouaregoing,lad?" they ask in unison.
The skies still look quite nasty, dark clouds swirling...
Utar opens his hands in front of him, looking at Shandra and Darvag.
"I told the lad he could visit the temple of Torm on the mainland, he seemed keen to visit, maybe light a candle for Master Igan. I told him he'd be welcome to come along, although maybe I should have spoken to you both first. I'd be seeing him back to the island personally."
Utar tries to give a nice reassuring smile, tusks prominent. He didn't want to lie to either Shandra or Darvag, but he senses this is a secret Rorin would rather keep to himself.
(OOC Would you like a deception roll, if so, can anyone help me?)
Neya chimes in (help), "We extended an invitation to him last night and he expressed interest this morning just before we went back down to finish the job. He may have wanted to tell you."
She turns to Rorin, "But I guess there wasn't much opportunity for you do so, yes?"
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Placing one hand on his amulet, Utar hopes the glow isn't too obvious as he casts guidance, silently reminding Torm that although he is lying to these people, it's also to protect them and their relationship with their son.
“Oh, I see!” Shandra says, a bit surprised. “Rorin never was one to follow our worship of the gods, you see. I am happy to see his perspective is changing!”
Darvag also shows his appreciation, in his own way: “Typical young lad. Won’t listen to his parents, but is ready to start praying as soon as a hero of Torm shows up with his blessed mace and shining armor. Not that I’m complaining...”
Rorin says a few words himself: “Yes, the timing for sharing the news was a bit off. Worry not. I’ll be back in the next ferry trip in a few days after I learn a bit more about Torm.”
They all nod. Hugs and handshakes are spread all around. The residents of Thorn Isle say their goodbyes to the Chaotic Relief adventuring party and reassure you are all welcome back at the island whenever you wish. “I’m sure Miss Liela will grant you as many permissions as you’d want!”
(OOC: If there is anything else you’d like to do in Thorn Isle before leaving, now is the time to mention it.)
Utar was sure to return any books borrowed from the library of the manor. He resolves to keep a close eye on Rupert on the journey back to the mainland.
Goodbyes delivered, the party heads back to the fishing boat and finishes loading it up. Rupert is being a sour-puss, clearly not happy about leaving Thorn Isle. Before too long, the vessel is on the water and the short trip begins.
In high contrast with the cloudy skies, the waters in the bay are fairly calm. Unlike your initial approach, Rupert is more than capable of solely controlling the fishing boat past the rocky section of the trip now that it can be easily identified from a distance. The most uncomfortable part of the trip is just how tightly packed the small boat is, as it is clearly not built to transport seven people at once.
Mid-way through the trip, Drazzim silently reaches into his clothes and pulls out a bloody piece of rolled-up parchment. He shoves it into Utar’s chest and then finally says: “Consider it a partying gift, Tormite. You’ll need it when talking to Hurn.”
Utar soon realizes the dwarf had pried from one of the mercenaries’ bodies the contract Hurn had given them. Showing this to the dwarven sergeant should be enough proof that the Chaotic Relief adventuring party was the one to restore light to the Lighthouse, and not the mercenaries. Explaining the blood may prove to be a little trickier.
(OOC: Other than this, the trip is mostly quiet. You guys have another 20 minutes or so to go before hitting mainland. Let me know if your characters are doing anything specific.)
Utar takes the note and pockets it for later, giving the dwarf a nod of thanks. Thinking on his friendship with Drazzim, he can't help but feel like he will miss the impulsive dwarf even if he cannot quite bring himself to write forgive his actions below Sokol Keep. Nevertheless, he feels like Phlan is not the place to be without allies.
"My thanks, dwarf. Though I think this will not be the last we see each other. I'll certainly be keeping an eye out for you. And I'll be sure to carry enough coin to buy an extra ale for an old friend should he want it."
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"I like what you are thinking, Neya. Praxx... The Black First are evil.. We have seen things as Utar describes. This is not the first time and will not be the last time they will be purged."
Graxx will walk with the group... While they are walking Graxx says.
"I do feel like we are starting to make a difference. Before it felt almost hopeless fighting against so much evil in this world... Even with the difficulties that arose I feel like we did something good here. Giving the lighthouse back it's light and purging this statue."
Graxx puts his hand to his chin.
"Which makes me think... Even though I'm not a big fan of magic. We couldn't have done this without the music wizard. With Drazzim and Praxx gone we are going to need to recruit some new folks. From what I've seen so far we really do need to find a magic user. I'm just not sure how common they are and what type we need. Our swords, maces, and fists can only get us so far. From what we have been facing, we will need all the help we can get."
"There is also the issue of other shape-shifters we may encounter. We will need another answer to them other than magic users."
"It was difficult to even cause lasting damage to Rorin before we decided to incapacitate him. I do recall that silver coins causing him pain... Perhaps there is someone on the mainland who is able apply the metal to mundane weapons?"
Extended Signature
Praxx to Graxx: "How are you so sure the Black Fist are evil? Haven't we just agreed that our world and the people within it are all shades of gray? A few interactions do not define an entire group of people. If it did, we would be enemies right now."
Praxx to Neya: "You'll need a good blacksmith for that. I've heard of silvered weapons in tales and songs before, but I'm sure it'd require a certain type of skill... and gold... and silver, of course."
As the group leaves the main chamber, Utar turns around for a final look at the aftermath. Before he turns to leave this place for good, something catches the corner of his eye (I'm using passive perception for this). It is a wooden stick with a metal tip on the ground just next to the ritual table in front of the pool of dark water (I recommend re-reading this post).
Graxx to Praxx
”I’m sorry music wizard. I haven’t heard you call to a god so like many music lovers I bet your god is in your trousers so you may not understand.”
”How do I know the Black Fist are evil? Because you are the company you keep. Drazzim did something we disagree with, he was removed from the group. We did not agree with what he did.”
”Utar follows Torm. A nice good god whom we have read about this journey.”
”Neya follows the Elder Tree which also seems to be fairly good.”
Graxx laughs slightly.
”Now... I suppose my God is a little morally grey because Tempus doesn’t care what you are fighting for just that you fight well... However! He strictly forbid any form of torture. Once a battle is one it is over. There is no pillaging or salting of the earth. We are not to attack certain followers of peaceful gods.”
Graxx then makes a fist near his chest.
”Then you have Bane who the Black Fist worship. An evil god of fear and tyranny! You can see it in how they rule this land! If they did not agree with it then they should find other employment. But no, they partake in these practices and oppress the people of this region. They have chosen Bane and therefore have chosen Evil.”
Doubling back, Utar takes the thin wooden stick, tucking it into his belt. Turning he hurries back to the group.
"Praxx, Neya, any ideas on this?" He asks, showing them the wand.
"As stubborn as ever, I see" Praxx scoffs at Graxx. "Those deformed muscles of yours are getting into your tiny brain, acolyte of Tempus! The Black Fist used to worship Bane, that is true. But the knightly order abandoned their following years ago. All of Phlan knows that. From the stories you've shared with me, all proof you have is your own testimony of a small group of Black Fists who still clung to their old practices is some hidden temple you have already destroyed, so that is not going to serve as proof of anything either. You walk around town accusing the order of the Lord Regent himself, and you'll end up in a dungeon somewhere."
Once he is done with his warning, Praxx takes a quick look at the wand and says to Utar: "I don't know what kind of spell may be charged into that stick, but that metal tip is clearly made of silver. Perhaps it can aid you in silvering your weapons," he clearly jests.
"Glad to see your sense of humour hasn't abandoned you, Master Gnome! I'll save this wand for identification at a later time."
Turning to Graxx, he lays a hand on his shoulder.
"Praxx is also correct in his assessment of the Black Fist. Some hold to Bane, that is clear. But I doubt it is all. Some hold to older ways or other gods and while I do not doubt your resolve to see all the Black Fist including the Lord Regent driven from Phlan, I think their numbers would overwhelm even you. It is wise to continue as we are, find help, do what we can. Avoid being thrown into a dungeon... Or worse..."
Graxx looks annoyed at Praxx and looks like he will be making a rebuttal but when Utar places his hand on his shoulder the Barbarian settles.
"As you wish, Utar... I will stay my blade... For now. If it is against the will of the party it is against my will as well."
Graxx looks for a moment as if his eyes glaze over if he is going to the past.
"I have seen what happens when an Evil God has any type of foothold. It grows and grows like a disease until it overtakes everyone. I do not want to see that again."
The conversation carries on as the group exits the underground temple. By now, everyone has a good understanding of how the sinkhole works, and where the danger spots are. You each make your way past the natural trap successfully this time around. You then repeat the process of temporarily dispelling the stone slab, placing the ladder just so, and leaving through the opening above you. Once the magical slab reappears, you all look back and hope no one will ever find their way into that decrepit place ever again.
Making your way back to the Manor, you find Drazzim and Rupert all ready to go. The fisherman is clearly not too thrilled about leaving: "Are y'all sure you don't need to look around some more... another day, or perhaps another tenday... please? I don't want to go back..."
Shandra and Darvag are standing by the door as well. They don't seem too scared anymore, so you can assume Drazzim told them the evil spirits were dispelled. Rorin is ready to go too. He has a backpack on his back, though his parents look a bit confused: "Where do you think you are going, lad?" they ask in unison.
The skies still look quite nasty, dark clouds swirling...
Utar opens his hands in front of him, looking at Shandra and Darvag.
"I told the lad he could visit the temple of Torm on the mainland, he seemed keen to visit, maybe light a candle for Master Igan. I told him he'd be welcome to come along, although maybe I should have spoken to you both first. I'd be seeing him back to the island personally."
Utar tries to give a nice reassuring smile, tusks prominent. He didn't want to lie to either Shandra or Darvag, but he senses this is a secret Rorin would rather keep to himself.
(OOC Would you like a deception roll, if so, can anyone help me?)
(OOC: Yes, please roll deception. You may wait for help, if you’d like).
Neya chimes in (help), "We extended an invitation to him last night and he expressed interest this morning just before we went back down to finish the job. He may have wanted to tell you."
She turns to Rorin, "But I guess there wasn't much opportunity for you do so, yes?"
Extended Signature
Graxx bites his lip hiding a grin from seeing the big smile from Utar.
Placing one hand on his amulet, Utar hopes the glow isn't too obvious as he casts guidance, silently reminding Torm that although he is lying to these people, it's also to protect them and their relationship with their son.
Deception - 16 plus 3
“Oh, I see!” Shandra says, a bit surprised. “Rorin never was one to follow our worship of the gods, you see. I am happy to see his perspective is changing!”
Darvag also shows his appreciation, in his own way: “Typical young lad. Won’t listen to his parents, but is ready to start praying as soon as a hero of Torm shows up with his blessed mace and shining armor. Not that I’m complaining...”
Rorin says a few words himself: “Yes, the timing for sharing the news was a bit off. Worry not. I’ll be back in the next ferry trip in a few days after I learn a bit more about Torm.”
They all nod. Hugs and handshakes are spread all around. The residents of Thorn Isle say their goodbyes to the Chaotic Relief adventuring party and reassure you are all welcome back at the island whenever you wish. “I’m sure Miss Liela will grant you as many permissions as you’d want!”
(OOC: If there is anything else you’d like to do in Thorn Isle before leaving, now is the time to mention it.)
Graxx shakes the hands and smiles. Chaotic Relief is making a difference. Just a little at a time. Graxx is ready to board the boat.
Utar was sure to return any books borrowed from the library of the manor. He resolves to keep a close eye on Rupert on the journey back to the mainland.
"Thank you for being our hosts during our stay. Let us meet again under less tragic circumstances."
Extended Signature
Goodbyes delivered, the party heads back to the fishing boat and finishes loading it up. Rupert is being a sour-puss, clearly not happy about leaving Thorn Isle. Before too long, the vessel is on the water and the short trip begins.
In high contrast with the cloudy skies, the waters in the bay are fairly calm. Unlike your initial approach, Rupert is more than capable of solely controlling the fishing boat past the rocky section of the trip now that it can be easily identified from a distance. The most uncomfortable part of the trip is just how tightly packed the small boat is, as it is clearly not built to transport seven people at once.
Mid-way through the trip, Drazzim silently reaches into his clothes and pulls out a bloody piece of rolled-up parchment. He shoves it into Utar’s chest and then finally says: “Consider it a partying gift, Tormite. You’ll need it when talking to Hurn.”
Utar soon realizes the dwarf had pried from one of the mercenaries’ bodies the contract Hurn had given them. Showing this to the dwarven sergeant should be enough proof that the Chaotic Relief adventuring party was the one to restore light to the Lighthouse, and not the mercenaries. Explaining the blood may prove to be a little trickier.
(OOC: Other than this, the trip is mostly quiet. You guys have another 20 minutes or so to go before hitting mainland. Let me know if your characters are doing anything specific.)
Utar takes the note and pockets it for later, giving the dwarf a nod of thanks. Thinking on his friendship with Drazzim, he can't help but feel like he will miss the impulsive dwarf even if he cannot quite bring himself to write forgive his actions below Sokol Keep. Nevertheless, he feels like Phlan is not the place to be without allies.
"My thanks, dwarf. Though I think this will not be the last we see each other. I'll certainly be keeping an eye out for you. And I'll be sure to carry enough coin to buy an extra ale for an old friend should he want it."