"My boys can handle this. Let's get out of here." Tarina says to Jill, her pockets jingling with coin. Tarina's dumb lackey's provide the distraction everyone needs to slip and out as they charge into the fray.
21
Misha stumbles out of the tangled mess of fish smelling pirates on both sides, nearly tripping. "You have her?"she asked quickly. "Let's go!" Misha will exit last, making sure everyone gets outside and starts running away.
"Have a nice day."the animated armor says as Tarina and you all leave and book it.
Jill picks Corrin up and gets them both out of there. Meep follows, hopping as fast as she can. "Hmm. Violent guests, weird ambient voice that sings a depressing song, but the animated armor was courteous. This tavern gets two and a half out of five stars."
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
Nok Nok watches the others dart out the door, sighs and then turns to follow. "Nothing worse than leaving an ass half-whooped," he grumbles as he makes his expedient exit with the others. "Leaves one wanting more..."
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Corrin Kettlewhistle: Halfling Life Cleric (Curse of Strahd) Kip Dalton: Human Lore Bard (Waterdeep Dragon Heist) Debauchery Dalliance: Half-Drow Oath of Conquest Paladin (White Plume Mountain)
“Aww, the party was just gettin’ started.” Amelia says condescendingly with a roll of her eyes before she backs up, waits for Jill and Corrin to escape, then runs after them.
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Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
"Thanks for the warning."Tarina says, shoving you all into an alley a block down from the Elfsong Tavern. Peeking out, she quickly says, "So, Captain Zodge is calling in his favor, eh? Very well."She takes another peek out of the alley. "Several blocks northwest of here is a public bathhouse with a walled garden and frolicking nymphs carved into its front gates. Followers of the Dead Three have been seen coming and going from the bathhouse, and I’m told there’s a secret door inside that leads to a dungeon. That’s where the killers are hiding.”
She gives you guys a final glance and a nod, and slips back into the crowd.
PRIMER ON THE DEAD THREE (NOTE: SOME OF THIS INFORMATION MAY BE CONSIDERED UNRELIABLE, AS WHO CAN TRULY KNOW THE MOTIVES OF THE GODS)
Left to right: Necromite of Myrkul, Black Gauntlet of Bane, and Reaper of Bhaal
BANE
Bane is a god of tyranny and both he and his worshipers seek to rule the world. Bane grants power to those who strive to rule with an iron fist. By imposing order on the world, Bane’s followers ensure that those who are clever, strong, and ambitious rise to the top while the weak languish in slavery. Regardless of the form he takes, Bane is always marked by his jet-black right hand. He usually wears a gauntlet or glove over this hand to conceal his identity, revealing it only when the time has come to display his true power. He is always well-dressed, donning the fine clothing of a noble or wearing the armor and gear of a successful mercenary general. His preferred weapon is a mace. Bane overpowers those who display any weakness, bullying them into submission or crushing them with his physical and magical power. His charisma is so great that he can sway the most mighty to pledge their loyalty to him in return for power over others. He finds the hunger for power that exists in every mortal heart and awakens it with carefully crafted promises and flattery. He is the mastermind of the Dead Three, the one whose ambitions drive the group’s efforts. Bane’s devoted followers are warriors who seek to rule through martial strength and intimidation, cruel tyrants who use threats and gifts as needed to ensure loyalty. They enslave those too weak to resist them and shower the strong with gifts and promises of power to turn them into loyal vassals.
Cruel Tyrants. Whenever Bane’s followers gain power, they institute draconian measures to ensure that their rule is unquestioned. They stamp out all opposition while richly rewarding those who swear fealty.
Warrior Cult. Cultists of Bane are warriors who wear heavy armor and wield maces, swords, spears, and crossbows. They paint the right gauntlet of their armor black in honor of their patron. Bane’s clerics wield black maces with heads shaped to look like a closed fist.
Cult Ranks. Bane’s cultists operate according to strict military hierarchies. The lowest rank consists of the fists of Bane, foot soldiers who obey all orders without hesitation. They are led by iron consuls, cunning field officers who excel at coordinating the fists in combat. The black gauntlets are the priests who command the consuls.
BHAAL
Bhaal is a god of murder who lends power to those whose killings invoke fear and dread. The act of murder is only half the equation. The second half is the suspicion, paranoia, and fear that a seemingly unstoppable killer can evoke. Bhaal seeks to inspire fear by slaying those seemingly beyond the reach of death. Bhaal always carries a red handkerchief somewhere on his person. He can take on an alternate appearance regardless of his current form, that of a hulking brute armed with a long, curved dagger that drips blood. In this form, he wears only a tattered loin cloth, is hairless, and is covered with bleeding wounds caused by a slashing blade. His face is a skull flayed of its flesh and surrounded by a halo of blood. Bhaal is a vicious bully who enjoys killing people in gruesome ways. He’s brought to heel only by the combination of Bane and Myrkul. Bhaal’s cultists emulate their deity, carrying out gruesome murders to spread fear and horror. They are charming and disarming when they wish, but in combat their true, bloodthirsty nature comes to the fore.
Bloodletters. All cultists of Bhaal learn to call upon their god’s power to leave their victims vulnerable to their long-bladed knives. When Bhaal’s magic works its power, stab wounds erupt in terrible gouts of blood. Seemingly minor wounds plunge deep into a victim’s body and cause terrible pain and bleeding.
Killers from the Shadows. Bhaal’s followers are cunning murderers who kill to strike fear and thrive on sowing terror in the cities they inhabit. They can call upon their god’s power to blend into the shadows with ease, or even turn invisible for a crucial moment.
Cult Ranks. Low-ranking cultists of Bhaal are called night blades, whom Bhaal blesses with darkvision and superior stealth. Reapers are the next rank up. They gain the ability to turn invisible and can use Bhaal’s magic to evade suspicion. The highest rank are the death’s heads, who can take on the skull-faced guise of their deity to terrify their prey. In combat, they intimidate foes by shrugging off the deadliest attacks with ease, showing that resisting Bhaal’s schemes is futile.
MYRKUL
Myrkul is the Lord of Bones, claiming power over corpses and souls. His cultists are those who seek to claim lore, power, and even fealty from the deceased. Myrkul has the power to call forth the soul of any slain creature and bind it into a wax skull. Myrkul can use this ability only if he claims some part of a creature’s physical body, grinds it up, and creates a skull that includes the resulting dust. So long as the soul remains inside the skull, the skull’s eye sockets burn with cold blue flames. While the skull is intact, Myrkul can compel the soul trapped within to answer his questions and share its knowledge. The skull degrades with each service rendered, eventually collapsing and releasing the soul. The soul can also be released by dousing the wax skull with holy water. Myrkul is calculating, distant, and self-centered. He cares only for the acquisition of knowledge and finds that managing the daily affairs of life is at best a tedious distraction. He is happiest when surrounded by his tomes of lore and the undead he has called forth to do his bidding. Those who follow Myrkul are either wizards or those who seek to master the necromantic arts.
Delvers into Lore. Cultists of Myrkul study rituals that allow them to force the souls of the dead into service, compelling them to answer questions and share forgotten lore. They seek out arcane secrets in ancient ruins, and attempt to steal spellbooks and other tomes from wizards outside of the cult.
Cult Ranks. A follower of Myrkul wields a flail that has a skull replacing the normal flail’s striking head. Necromites are initiates who have not yet mastered arcane magic and rely on their flails in battle. Skull lashers are spellcasters who use magic to augment their combat abilities. The masters of souls delve deep into Myrkul’s secrets, allowing them to animate the dead and perform other grave magic.
Since it was suggested that the team attack the bathhouse at night, Jill decides to use the time that's left to stock up on healing items. She gets ready to rush to the markets, but stops and turns around at such a quick rate that she almost falls over. She sighs, before heading over to Amelia. "I was thinking of procuring some potions before tonight's mission and am requesting that you accompany me as the city is dangerous and I'm sure that someone my age should not go there alone." Jill practically sighs as she gets that sentence out. It's because she cares, not because she thinks that I can't handle it. "I do not know how pricing works here, but a standard potion can be acquired for 50 gold, so each of us should be able to purchase at least one without going broke. And besides," Jill pats Corrin on the head and smiles. "I promised the little deputy here that she'd get a donut after we got back from the Elfsong."
Allynna looks at the others. "Well, that was...interesting. Now for the rest of this, I suppose." She's much more subdued than usual, frowning deeply. Gargauth, where are you?
...Here.
What was that? You can't just vanish!
I'm sorry. My...I guess you could call it a safe house was threatened. I had enemies moving in. I had to get out.
"Fantastic!"Misha beams, "A bathhouse! Misha take bath before open another hoop ass can on Dead Three, ah?? What relaxing way to rewind before fight!" Misha rummaged in her backpack, looking for her swimsuit.
Corrin would have happily gone along with her mother to the bathhouse, but stopped in her tracks once Jill reminds her of the promise of donuts. "Oh yeah! Can I get a donut, mom? Please, please, pleeeeeease?" Corrin pleads with her puppy dog eyes and cute little pout. Amelia attempts to not fall for it, eyeing her daughter down, but soon her eyebrow twitches in irritation and caves in. "Okay, okay, one donut. I don't need you on a sugar rush before bedtime." She says as she searches through her bag to pull out an extra 50 gold. "Buy a potion for me too, okay?" The tiefling girl grins up at her mom and pockets the coin before rushing over to Jill. "Okay, mama!" She then proceeds to pull Jill by the arm. "Let's go, let's go!"
While the duo departs, Amelia can be seen shaking her head as she puts her hands to her waist. "Alright, Allynna, go ahead. I guess we'll take a bath since we're here?" Her eyes gaze over to Misha who was eagerly searching her bag for her swimsuit. "... Got another one in there I could borrow?"
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Yoska chuckles and shakes his head. "Ya know, Miss Misha? Ya remind me a bit of dis here old sister. Usually tho' she'd tried to saving bathing for after, seeing as cleaning up was always a pain in the ass fer her." He comments on, and then glances back to Jill. "If'n ya need escort, Madam. Why I sure wouldn't mind being the one or two to accompany ya. Could do for some explore'n, even if dis one I ain't got much in the way of personal coin to spend."He thumbs his chin a few times. "least 'corrding to the spirits looming about this place."On that casual note, he sidles up besides corrin and Jilly, waiting to follow.
Allynna slips off to perform her errand, nervously biting her lip.
Hey. Stop that. Head high, back straight. You have nothing to fear from him.
I know you keep saying that...but it really doesn't feel that way.
Allynna made her way to the Hhune mansion hesitantly, standing in front of the door for a moment before knocking. A grim faced servant escorted her to a sitting room, where Lord Tarquin Hhune stood in front of the fireplace, his visage stormy with anger. "Where. Have. You. Been." He clipped each word off angrily, eyes flashing. "Your caravan returned hours ago, and there is a refugee crisis occurring. I do not have time for your little games of rebellion, Allynna." Allynna dipped her head. "I'm sorry, sir. The press of people made getting to this part of town difficult." Tarquin snorted. "And you didn't rush, I'm sure." He waves a hand. "Not important, at this point. I want you out of the city." Allynna's head snapped up. "What?" Tarquin narrowed his eyes. "Do I have to repeat myself to you now? Leon is remaining to oversee defense of the manor, and obviously Celia is staying with her husband's family. The Belts have excellent protection and Duke Belt is a good judge of safety. As my ward, you'll have to do to oversee the country estate and make sure nothing goes wrong there." Allynna's heart fluttered with fear. Ten years ago, she'd have jumped at the chance to prove her ability. Now...she couldn't leave the city. Not now. Gargauth, any and all help would be appreciated right now. The elf squared her shoulders. "My lord, I ask that you let me remain in the Gate. You do not wish to look afraid of whatever happened to Elturel, and another can easily run your country estate. And...this is my home." She added the last part out of some desperate hope that the words would move Tarquin. They did not. "Allynna Hhune Varen, I gave you an order and I expect it to be obeyed. Go to your room, pack your things, and be ready for the guards that will come to escort you to your carriage."
Allynna shut the door to her room on the guard who'd escorted her there, tears in her eyes. Everything she'd just found would be gone, and she couldn't even tell the others. They'd think she'd abandoned them, just taken off when she got bored like the spoiled brat Jill had first assumed her to be. Eyes blurred with tears, she didn't even notice him until he cupped her tearstained cheek in one hand. "Come now my 'Lynna, don't cry. It'll all be all right." Allynna looked up into the fiery eyes of an elf who drew her gently to her feet. "Gargauth," she whispered. "It's over. Even if I went out the window, I'd never be finished at the baths before the guards came to collect me. There's no winning. Tarquin always finds a way to squash me into submission." Gargauth smiled. "Oh 'Lynna. Don't worry about that. Get into your street clothes, pull on your mask, and go meet your friends." Allynna shook her head. "But..." He silenced her protests with a long kiss, fire burning through Allynna's veins. When she pulled back, she realized she wore her Nightingale armor...but changed. Much of the silver had been replaced with a deep red, the color of dying coals that could still be reawoken. Gargauth smiled at her and handed her the metal mask. "Don't worry about Tarquin. He won't be an issue much longer. Go stop some cultists."
As the Nightingale made her way across the rooftops, it never even occurred to her to question Gargauth's words. The archdevil tracked her progress in his mind's eye, the dark blue mark on her back burning her into his mind as surely as he was burned into her soul. He'd been telling the truth. Tarquin Hhune wouldn't be an issue for much longer. After all, soon the Knights would have served their purpose...
When Allynna meets back up with the others that evening, she wears a different outfit, this one black and red silk for ease of movement, flickers of red light the color of dried blood occasionally visible in it. She's already slipped the metal nightingale mask into her bag, and gives the others a smile. "Right. Let's stop some cultists and have a magnificent bath. Preferably not in that order."
Meep glances around at everyone after the fight before focusing on Yoska. "I suppose going to a bath house with a bunch of women and a goblin isnt the most appropriate thing in your mind eh?" She skiles, obviously joking with Yoska with some seriousness. She then thinks for a minute. "I may need to invest in my own tub. I'm not sure how my... skin issue effects the water I'm in? But I would like to attend for a bath."
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Nina Wildvale|Changeling|Wild Magic Sorcerer|Rise of The Reunelords|Active
Kai Loire|Water Genasia|Life Cleric|Road To Phandalin|Retired
"Okay, okay! Happy bathing Madame Hiriart! Perhaps you will be able to get a moment of rest with me babysitting for you, no?" When Yoska volunteers to travel with them, she allows him to, if only for the sake of getting to know him better. "Bonjour, I am called Jill Moon. Nice to meet you." Jill leads the pair to buy potions for herself and the Hiriarts (Jill now has 98 gold.) before going to buy donuts for the three of them. Jill purchases a chocolate donut, while making sure that Corrin only gets one. While the prospect of taking a warm bath did appeal to Jill, the prospect of bathing in front of other people did not. Jill wasn't toned or tan to begin with and it didn't help that she had a bunch of scars along her body. She was happy that Corrin and Yoska came with her, because it meant that she wouldn't be alone while everyone was having a good time and because the both of them were friendly people. She made an effort to have as much fun with Corrin as she could and to try to get to know Yoska as well as she could before they had to go back to the others for the mission.
Misha gasped and pulled out two swimsuits to show Amelia. One was a tight black athletic bikini, the other was a colorful bikini top with a long light tropical skirt. "Yes!"she said, glad she packed both of them from the last time she was on this world. "You peek, ok? I take one you don't want."
With Yoska coming along, Corrin finally takes a moment to properly introduce herself to him. "My mom already told you my name, but I was taught to always give a proper greeting! My name is Corrin Hiriart. Nice to meet you, Yoska sir!" She tries to mimic her mother's firm way of handshaking, but she only had so much muscle compared to her, regardless, it would be seen as a cute attempt anyways.
The tiefling carefully puts away her potions in her bag, and happily asks for a pink donut with a bunch of sprinkles on it, digging in as soon as the sweet treat was given to her. "Thank, Jill!" She says as she chews, then when she gulps she looks to Yoska. "What brings you here, sir?"
Amelia looks at her options, almost reaching for the black bikini, mainly as a joke, but takes the colorful swimsuit instead. "You wouldn't want this mom body in that, trust me." She gives a laugh. "Thanks, hun." She looks to the others. "Shall we then?"
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Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
I CAN'T HEAR YOUUUU!
DOWNSTAIRS
"My boys can handle this. Let's get out of here." Tarina says to Jill, her pockets jingling with coin. Tarina's dumb lackey's provide the distraction everyone needs to slip and out as they charge into the fray.
21
Misha stumbles out of the tangled mess of fish smelling pirates on both sides, nearly tripping. "You have her?" she asked quickly. "Let's go!" Misha will exit last, making sure everyone gets outside and starts running away.
"Have a nice day." the animated armor says as Tarina and you all leave and book it.
Jill picks Corrin up and gets them both out of there. Meep follows, hopping as fast as she can. "Hmm. Violent guests, weird ambient voice that sings a depressing song, but the animated armor was courteous. This tavern gets two and a half out of five stars."
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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Nok Nok watches the others dart out the door, sighs and then turns to follow. "Nothing worse than leaving an ass half-whooped," he grumbles as he makes his expedient exit with the others. "Leaves one wanting more..."
Corrin Kettlewhistle: Halfling Life Cleric (Curse of Strahd)
Kip Dalton: Human Lore Bard (Waterdeep Dragon Heist)
Debauchery Dalliance: Half-Drow Oath of Conquest Paladin (White Plume Mountain)
“Aww, the party was just gettin’ started.” Amelia says condescendingly with a roll of her eyes before she backs up, waits for Jill and Corrin to escape, then runs after them.
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Jill calls back to Nok Nok and Amelia as she runs with Corrin and Meep. "At least you two got to fight!"
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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OH, BARNACLES!
"Thanks for the warning." Tarina says, shoving you all into an alley a block down from the Elfsong Tavern. Peeking out, she quickly says, "So, Captain Zodge is calling in his favor, eh? Very well." She takes another peek out of the alley. "Several blocks northwest of here is a public bathhouse with a walled garden and frolicking nymphs carved into its front gates. Followers of the Dead Three have been seen coming and going from the bathhouse, and I’m told there’s a secret door inside that leads to a dungeon. That’s where the killers are hiding.”
She gives you guys a final glance and a nod, and slips back into the crowd.
Nok Nok groans, "Bath house? This truly is hell." He reluctantly trudges alongside the others.
Corrin Kettlewhistle: Halfling Life Cleric (Curse of Strahd)
Kip Dalton: Human Lore Bard (Waterdeep Dragon Heist)
Debauchery Dalliance: Half-Drow Oath of Conquest Paladin (White Plume Mountain)
INTERLUDE
PRIMER ON THE DEAD THREE
(NOTE: SOME OF THIS INFORMATION MAY BE CONSIDERED UNRELIABLE, AS WHO CAN TRULY KNOW THE MOTIVES OF THE GODS)
Left to right: Necromite of Myrkul, Black Gauntlet of Bane, and Reaper of Bhaal
BANE
Bane is a god of tyranny and both he and his worshipers seek to rule the world. Bane grants power to those who strive to rule with an iron fist. By imposing order on the world, Bane’s followers ensure that those who are clever, strong, and ambitious rise to the top while the weak languish in slavery. Regardless of the form he takes, Bane is always marked by his jet-black right hand. He usually wears a gauntlet or glove over this hand to conceal his identity, revealing it only when the time has come to display his true power. He is always well-dressed, donning the fine clothing of a noble or wearing the armor and gear of a successful mercenary general. His preferred weapon is a mace. Bane overpowers those who display any weakness, bullying them into submission or crushing them with his physical and magical power. His charisma is so great that he can sway the most mighty to pledge their loyalty to him in return for power over others. He finds the hunger for power that exists in every mortal heart and awakens it with carefully crafted promises and flattery. He is the mastermind of the Dead Three, the one whose ambitions drive the group’s efforts. Bane’s devoted followers are warriors who seek to rule through martial strength and intimidation, cruel tyrants who use threats and gifts as needed to ensure loyalty. They enslave those too weak to resist them and shower the strong with gifts and promises of power to turn them into loyal vassals.
Cruel Tyrants. Whenever Bane’s followers gain power, they institute draconian measures to ensure that their rule is unquestioned. They stamp out all opposition while richly rewarding those who swear fealty.
Warrior Cult. Cultists of Bane are warriors who wear heavy armor and wield maces, swords, spears, and crossbows. They paint the right gauntlet of their armor black in honor of their patron. Bane’s clerics wield black maces with heads shaped to look like a closed fist.
Cult Ranks. Bane’s cultists operate according to strict military hierarchies. The lowest rank consists of the fists of Bane, foot soldiers who obey all orders without hesitation. They are led by iron consuls, cunning field officers who excel at coordinating the fists in combat. The black gauntlets are the priests who command the consuls.
BHAAL
Bhaal is a god of murder who lends power to those whose killings invoke fear and dread. The act of murder is only half the equation. The second half is the suspicion, paranoia, and fear that a seemingly unstoppable killer can evoke. Bhaal seeks to inspire fear by slaying those seemingly beyond the reach of death. Bhaal always carries a red handkerchief somewhere on his person. He can take on an alternate appearance regardless of his current form, that of a hulking brute armed with a long, curved dagger that drips blood. In this form, he wears only a tattered loin cloth, is hairless, and is covered with bleeding wounds caused by a slashing blade. His face is a skull flayed of its flesh and surrounded by a halo of blood. Bhaal is a vicious bully who enjoys killing people in gruesome ways. He’s brought to heel only by the combination of Bane and Myrkul. Bhaal’s cultists emulate their deity, carrying out gruesome murders to spread fear and horror. They are charming and disarming when they wish, but in combat their true, bloodthirsty nature comes to the fore.
Bloodletters. All cultists of Bhaal learn to call upon their god’s power to leave their victims vulnerable to their long-bladed knives. When Bhaal’s magic works its power, stab wounds erupt in terrible gouts of blood. Seemingly minor wounds plunge deep into a victim’s body and cause terrible pain and bleeding.
Killers from the Shadows. Bhaal’s followers are cunning murderers who kill to strike fear and thrive on sowing terror in the cities they inhabit. They can call upon their god’s power to blend into the shadows with ease, or even turn invisible for a crucial moment.
Cult Ranks. Low-ranking cultists of Bhaal are called night blades, whom Bhaal blesses with darkvision and superior stealth. Reapers are the next rank up. They gain the ability to turn invisible and can use Bhaal’s magic to evade suspicion. The highest rank are the death’s heads, who can take on the skull-faced guise of their deity to terrify their prey. In combat, they intimidate foes by shrugging off the deadliest attacks with ease, showing that resisting Bhaal’s schemes is futile.
MYRKUL
Myrkul is the Lord of Bones, claiming power over corpses and souls. His cultists are those who seek to claim lore, power, and even fealty from the deceased. Myrkul has the power to call forth the soul of any slain creature and bind it into a wax skull. Myrkul can use this ability only if he claims some part of a creature’s physical body, grinds it up, and creates a skull that includes the resulting dust. So long as the soul remains inside the skull, the skull’s eye sockets burn with cold blue flames. While the skull is intact, Myrkul can compel the soul trapped within to answer his questions and share its knowledge. The skull degrades with each service rendered, eventually collapsing and releasing the soul. The soul can also be released by dousing the wax skull with holy water. Myrkul is calculating, distant, and self-centered. He cares only for the acquisition of knowledge and finds that managing the daily affairs of life is at best a tedious distraction. He is happiest when surrounded by his tomes of lore and the undead he has called forth to do his bidding. Those who follow Myrkul are either wizards or those who seek to master the necromantic arts.
Delvers into Lore. Cultists of Myrkul study rituals that allow them to force the souls of the dead into service, compelling them to answer questions and share forgotten lore. They seek out arcane secrets in ancient ruins, and attempt to steal spellbooks and other tomes from wizards outside of the cult.
Cult Ranks. A follower of Myrkul wields a flail that has a skull replacing the normal flail’s striking head. Necromites are initiates who have not yet mastered arcane magic and rely on their flails in battle. Skull lashers are spellcasters who use magic to augment their combat abilities. The masters of souls delve deep into Myrkul’s secrets, allowing them to animate the dead and perform other grave magic.
Since it was suggested that the team attack the bathhouse at night, Jill decides to use the time that's left to stock up on healing items. She gets ready to rush to the markets, but stops and turns around at such a quick rate that she almost falls over. She sighs, before heading over to Amelia. "I was thinking of procuring some potions before tonight's mission and am requesting that you accompany me as the city is dangerous and I'm sure that someone my age should not go there alone." Jill practically sighs as she gets that sentence out. It's because she cares, not because she thinks that I can't handle it. "I do not know how pricing works here, but a standard potion can be acquired for 50 gold, so each of us should be able to purchase at least one without going broke. And besides," Jill pats Corrin on the head and smiles. "I promised the little deputy here that she'd get a donut after we got back from the Elfsong."
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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Allynna looks at the others. "Well, that was...interesting. Now for the rest of this, I suppose." She's much more subdued than usual, frowning deeply. Gargauth, where are you?
...Here.
What was that? You can't just vanish!
I'm sorry. My...I guess you could call it a safe house was threatened. I had enemies moving in. I had to get out.
I...oh. I'm sorry.
Stella Diamant, Human Rogue 17 (Swashbuckler), The Exploits of Misfit Company
Kat, Medtech, Cyberpunk: Red
Shi, Changeling Bard 4 (College of Spirits), Tyrant's Grasp
Dani, Human Artificer 9 (Armorer), Skulls and Starships
DM, Project Point (Teams Scimitar and Longsword)
Everything Else!
"I'll have to run an errand of my own before we go to the bath house, though," she adds.
Stella Diamant, Human Rogue 17 (Swashbuckler), The Exploits of Misfit Company
Kat, Medtech, Cyberpunk: Red
Shi, Changeling Bard 4 (College of Spirits), Tyrant's Grasp
Dani, Human Artificer 9 (Armorer), Skulls and Starships
DM, Project Point (Teams Scimitar and Longsword)
Everything Else!
"Fantastic!" Misha beams, "A bathhouse! Misha take bath before open another hoop ass can on Dead Three, ah?? What relaxing way to rewind before fight!" Misha rummaged in her backpack, looking for her swimsuit.
Corrin would have happily gone along with her mother to the bathhouse, but stopped in her tracks once Jill reminds her of the promise of donuts. "Oh yeah! Can I get a donut, mom? Please, please, pleeeeeease?" Corrin pleads with her puppy dog eyes and cute little pout. Amelia attempts to not fall for it, eyeing her daughter down, but soon her eyebrow twitches in irritation and caves in. "Okay, okay, one donut. I don't need you on a sugar rush before bedtime." She says as she searches through her bag to pull out an extra 50 gold. "Buy a potion for me too, okay?" The tiefling girl grins up at her mom and pockets the coin before rushing over to Jill. "Okay, mama!" She then proceeds to pull Jill by the arm. "Let's go, let's go!"
While the duo departs, Amelia can be seen shaking her head as she puts her hands to her waist. "Alright, Allynna, go ahead. I guess we'll take a bath since we're here?" Her eyes gaze over to Misha who was eagerly searching her bag for her swimsuit. "... Got another one in there I could borrow?"
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Yoska chuckles and shakes his head. "Ya know, Miss Misha? Ya remind me a bit of dis here old sister. Usually tho' she'd tried to saving bathing for after, seeing as cleaning up was always a pain in the ass fer her." He comments on, and then glances back to Jill. "If'n ya need escort, Madam. Why I sure wouldn't mind being the one or two to accompany ya. Could do for some explore'n, even if dis one I ain't got much in the way of personal coin to spend." He thumbs his chin a few times. "least 'corrding to the spirits looming about this place." On that casual note, he sidles up besides corrin and Jilly, waiting to follow.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Allynna slips off to perform her errand, nervously biting her lip.
Hey. Stop that. Head high, back straight. You have nothing to fear from him.
I know you keep saying that...but it really doesn't feel that way.
Allynna made her way to the Hhune mansion hesitantly, standing in front of the door for a moment before knocking. A grim faced servant escorted her to a sitting room, where Lord Tarquin Hhune stood in front of the fireplace, his visage stormy with anger. "Where. Have. You. Been." He clipped each word off angrily, eyes flashing. "Your caravan returned hours ago, and there is a refugee crisis occurring. I do not have time for your little games of rebellion, Allynna." Allynna dipped her head. "I'm sorry, sir. The press of people made getting to this part of town difficult." Tarquin snorted. "And you didn't rush, I'm sure." He waves a hand. "Not important, at this point. I want you out of the city." Allynna's head snapped up. "What?" Tarquin narrowed his eyes. "Do I have to repeat myself to you now? Leon is remaining to oversee defense of the manor, and obviously Celia is staying with her husband's family. The Belts have excellent protection and Duke Belt is a good judge of safety. As my ward, you'll have to do to oversee the country estate and make sure nothing goes wrong there." Allynna's heart fluttered with fear. Ten years ago, she'd have jumped at the chance to prove her ability. Now...she couldn't leave the city. Not now. Gargauth, any and all help would be appreciated right now. The elf squared her shoulders. "My lord, I ask that you let me remain in the Gate. You do not wish to look afraid of whatever happened to Elturel, and another can easily run your country estate. And...this is my home." She added the last part out of some desperate hope that the words would move Tarquin. They did not. "Allynna Hhune Varen, I gave you an order and I expect it to be obeyed. Go to your room, pack your things, and be ready for the guards that will come to escort you to your carriage."
Allynna shut the door to her room on the guard who'd escorted her there, tears in her eyes. Everything she'd just found would be gone, and she couldn't even tell the others. They'd think she'd abandoned them, just taken off when she got bored like the spoiled brat Jill had first assumed her to be. Eyes blurred with tears, she didn't even notice him until he cupped her tearstained cheek in one hand. "Come now my 'Lynna, don't cry. It'll all be all right." Allynna looked up into the fiery eyes of an elf who drew her gently to her feet. "Gargauth," she whispered. "It's over. Even if I went out the window, I'd never be finished at the baths before the guards came to collect me. There's no winning. Tarquin always finds a way to squash me into submission." Gargauth smiled. "Oh 'Lynna. Don't worry about that. Get into your street clothes, pull on your mask, and go meet your friends." Allynna shook her head. "But..." He silenced her protests with a long kiss, fire burning through Allynna's veins. When she pulled back, she realized she wore her Nightingale armor...but changed. Much of the silver had been replaced with a deep red, the color of dying coals that could still be reawoken. Gargauth smiled at her and handed her the metal mask. "Don't worry about Tarquin. He won't be an issue much longer. Go stop some cultists."
As the Nightingale made her way across the rooftops, it never even occurred to her to question Gargauth's words. The archdevil tracked her progress in his mind's eye, the dark blue mark on her back burning her into his mind as surely as he was burned into her soul. He'd been telling the truth. Tarquin Hhune wouldn't be an issue for much longer. After all, soon the Knights would have served their purpose...
When Allynna meets back up with the others that evening, she wears a different outfit, this one black and red silk for ease of movement, flickers of red light the color of dried blood occasionally visible in it. She's already slipped the metal nightingale mask into her bag, and gives the others a smile. "Right. Let's stop some cultists and have a magnificent bath. Preferably not in that order."
Stella Diamant, Human Rogue 17 (Swashbuckler), The Exploits of Misfit Company
Kat, Medtech, Cyberpunk: Red
Shi, Changeling Bard 4 (College of Spirits), Tyrant's Grasp
Dani, Human Artificer 9 (Armorer), Skulls and Starships
DM, Project Point (Teams Scimitar and Longsword)
Everything Else!
Meep glances around at everyone after the fight before focusing on Yoska. "I suppose going to a bath house with a bunch of women and a goblin isnt the most appropriate thing in your mind eh?" She skiles, obviously joking with Yoska with some seriousness. She then thinks for a minute. "I may need to invest in my own tub. I'm not sure how my... skin issue effects the water I'm in? But I would like to attend for a bath."
Nina Wildvale|Changeling|Wild Magic Sorcerer|Rise of The Reunelords|Active
Kai Loire|Water Genasia|Life Cleric|Road To Phandalin|Retired
Willow Twilight|Swiftstride Shifter|Blood Hunter|Ebberon|Retired
Meephylia Polliwog|Grung|Dragon Sorcerer|Descent To Avernus|Retired
Ashryn Rairs|Changeling|Hexblade Warlock|Out Of The Abyss|Dead
"Okay, okay! Happy bathing Madame Hiriart! Perhaps you will be able to get a moment of rest with me babysitting for you, no?" When Yoska volunteers to travel with them, she allows him to, if only for the sake of getting to know him better. "Bonjour, I am called Jill Moon. Nice to meet you." Jill leads the pair to buy potions for herself and the Hiriarts (Jill now has 98 gold.) before going to buy donuts for the three of them. Jill purchases a chocolate donut, while making sure that Corrin only gets one. While the prospect of taking a warm bath did appeal to Jill, the prospect of bathing in front of other people did not. Jill wasn't toned or tan to begin with and it didn't help that she had a bunch of scars along her body. She was happy that Corrin and Yoska came with her, because it meant that she wouldn't be alone while everyone was having a good time and because the both of them were friendly people. She made an effort to have as much fun with Corrin as she could and to try to get to know Yoska as well as she could before they had to go back to the others for the mission.
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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Misha gasped and pulled out two swimsuits to show Amelia. One was a tight black athletic bikini, the other was a colorful bikini top with a long light tropical skirt. "Yes!" she said, glad she packed both of them from the last time she was on this world. "You peek, ok? I take one you don't want."
With Yoska coming along, Corrin finally takes a moment to properly introduce herself to him. "My mom already told you my name, but I was taught to always give a proper greeting! My name is Corrin Hiriart. Nice to meet you, Yoska sir!" She tries to mimic her mother's firm way of handshaking, but she only had so much muscle compared to her, regardless, it would be seen as a cute attempt anyways.
The tiefling carefully puts away her potions in her bag, and happily asks for a pink donut with a bunch of sprinkles on it, digging in as soon as the sweet treat was given to her. "Thank, Jill!" She says as she chews, then when she gulps she looks to Yoska. "What brings you here, sir?"
Amelia looks at her options, almost reaching for the black bikini, mainly as a joke, but takes the colorful swimsuit instead. "You wouldn't want this mom body in that, trust me." She gives a laugh. "Thanks, hun." She looks to the others. "Shall we then?"
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
"I kinda do!" Misha says honestly, smiling, but takes it back and gives Amelia the other one. "Ok! Misha ees ready!"