Father Darovik nods his head and receives Vernon's bow with a slight bow of his own. "You are correct, master gnome, many of our members worship Mielikki the Forest Queen. In fact, she is one of those who appoint the three chosen members of our Elder Circle. Mielikki is a very important figure in our cause."
He then reaches into the folds of his cloak and presents you with a small copper cloak clasp that's stamped with a stag and accented with green enamel, which he tells you is the symbol of the Emerald Enclave.
"I welcome you to the cause, my brother, and with this insignia, I bestow upon you the rank of Springwarden in the Emerald Enclave. Others will know you by this symbol, and will offer you comfort or provide you with aid, should you require, just as you would be expected to do so."
"As a member of the Enclave, you hold that you will do all you can to do the following:"
Preserve and restore the natural order.
Destroy all that is unnatural.
Keep the elemental forces of the world in check.
Keep civilization and the wilderness from destroying one another.
"In the end, we live by this creed:"
The natural order must be respected and preserved.
Forces that upset the natural order must be destroyed.
Civilization and the wilderness must learn to coexist peacefully.
"In the words of one of our chief rangers, Delaan Winterhoud:
"We are the defenders of the wilderness and of the society that does not understand it. Most have forgotten that there is an ancient, natural order that existed long before our intellectual concepts of it. To come into contact with that primal order is to touch the power that guides all of life. Those who walk the way of the Emerald Enclave are infused with this power; we embody it, and it moves us to do our work. That is why we are never alone. Even in the midst of a noisy, crowded city we can feel the presence of the natural world inside us, fresh, strong, and alive. The Enclave seeks to make awareness of this power available to all."
--------------------
To Arisa, he says, "Your mother was correct. After the Mother of All Magic was assassinated by Shar and Cyric, a terrible even that triggered the Spellplauge, members of our faction were sent throughout the Vilhon Wilds, near the Sea of Fallen Stars, to help counter the effects of this terrible cataclysm. It was then that our original mission changed from one of respect for and guardianship of nature to a much more dire struggle against forces that were far beyond their control."
"I welcome you to the Emerald Enclave as Springwarden also, my sister. Here is your insignia to wear."
((Anyone else who wishes to join will also receive the Emerald Enclave insignia and be welcomed as a new member under the rank of "Springwarden."))
"Thank you Father, for this generous offer. However, I will have to decline at this point of time. I am glad to have you as friends though, and I am also willing to lend a hand when I am able."
"That is quite alright, my friend. In no way does this diminish my gratitude for your efforts yesterday. I hear that you fought bravely and led the assault upon the giants outside the wall in the final battle with your tiefling companion, and that is to be commended. The Earth Mother knows what you have done, and she bestows her blessings upon you."
"Father, if we could ask your advice, we seek to understand what is causing the giants to attack Goldenfields and Nightstone, and perhaps other towns and cities. We are considering following the captured giant back to its village, Lifferlas has suggested seeking aid from a long lost druid, and Naxene recommends returning to Waterdeep for more information. Do you have a recommendation on the best path to follow?"
"Both of those sound like good courses of action. If there's information to be gained on any subject, Waterdeep is like a good place to find it. And I know of the druid who awakened Lifferlas. Aerglas was a member of the Enclave who slew many giants back in his day. In fact, many of our organization are druids. He left Goldenfields quite a number of years ago, perhaps thirty. I know not what became of him, but if you are able to locate him, he could be a good resource."
As Father Darovik speaks, Zi Liang, who has been listening during this time, interjects.
"If you are planning to return to Waterdeep, then I would ask something of you, as well. That is what I wanted to speak with you about. My family owned several businesses in Waterdeep, trading in silks, oils, maps and other fine items and commodities. They passed a few years ago and entrusted my inheritance the caretakers of their house."
"My place is here at the Abbey, so I have not returned to claim my inheritance, nor do I have need for it. However, having fought alongside you yesterday, andknowing that some of you have now pledge yourself to the Enclave in the interest of helping to stop terrible imbalance that has plagued the land, I would offer it to you."
She reaches into a pouch on her belt and produces a black pearl pendent that looks quite valuable. She then gives it to you. "If you bring this to Waterdeep and present it to Caldur Marskyl, who is the head butler at House Thann, then he will know that I have bequeathed my inheritance to you. Whatever it is that was left to me should help you even further in your tasks ahead"
Zyllith opted to remain silent while the Father spoke. She had no interest in joining this Enclave, or any other organization at the moment. Besides, even should she decide to join some order in the future, she thought to herself, then it would be easier not to be tied to another potentially conflicting organization. That would serve the group far better in the long run. So for the most part she remained a few steps back, quietly watching while the others tended to their Enclave initiations.
When Zi Liang spoke up and explained her inheritance, Zyllith found herself more interested. Stepping forward, she walked up to Zi Liang taking the offered pendant in her hand. "Are ye' sure ye' wanna part wit' this, luv? Any house in Waterdeep what's big enough ta' have a head butler is gots ta' be big enough tha' any inheritance would be mighty valuable. Might be valuable enough ta' help out yer Abby kin 'ere."
Should she still choose to give the party the inheritance, Zyllith will graciously thank her for the gift, making sure to secure the black pearl pendant on her person.
Arisa says “We deeply appreciate this gift. I hope that we can find the source of this evil threat and defeat it- we will certainly need help with that. And I will be a faithful member of the Emerald Enclave, I am honored to join.”
Belkas thanks both Father Darovik and Zi Liang. He knows it wouldn't be safe for him to stay long enough in one place to really take advantage of a property; however, having a house to stay at when he visits Waterdeep could be helpful.
If nothing else comes up, Belkas says goodbye. When the four of them are alone again, he says, "Now we are alone, I wanted to do this." He crouches down and makes a small hole in the ground with his knife. He takes out a goblin toe he picked up from the battlefield in the morning and places it in the hollow. "Osmord, whatever paths your dark gods have taken you down, I wish you well. You were a companion of few words and strange eating habits, but you had a good heart and were a true friend. You will be missed." He covers the hole with loose dirt and gets up.
"Any preferences on what to do next? Follow the giant, go to Waterdeep, or search for the lost druid? I am ready to move on. "
Expanding on what Belkas just said, it is a little odd that you have not seen Osmord since yesterday right before the big battle. He was with you when the first goblin missile came over the wall, but in the scramble to come up with a strategy and send the four of you out to engage with the giant/ogre/goblin army outside the wall, he seems to have disappeared. None of the others who were with you saw him step away from the group; he was there one minute, and then when the chaos was over, he was nowhere to be seen, and there's no telling where he went or why he left.
Arisa says “ Zi Liang- is there some way we could get a message back here? My thought is we could follow the giant and locate it’s village, but then head towards either the Druid- if we know where to go, or waterdeep. We’re not strong enough to take on a giant village. But we could send the information about where it is back here. Does anyone keep messenger pigeons or the like?”
"Aye, depends on whot direction tha' giant 'eads, yea? If'n it heads closer ta' Waterdeep, we'll 'ead there next. As fer tha' druid, we'd 'ave ta' ask Lifferlas where's he's last seen. Then we can 'ead there if it's closer from tha' giants. Though, if I 'ad ta' pick jus' one; Me guts leadin' me towards Waterdeep. Partly 'cause I'm curious whot 'em Black Network folk are up to in all this shite."
FYI - Here is a map for Western Faerûn, and some general directions for your next locations.
Waterdeep: From Goldenfields, you know it's a three day walk back down the Northfurrow Trail, about 90 miles Waterdeep.
Shadowtop Cathedral: This location, where you would look for Lifferlas's Druid friend, is located about 250 miles in the opposite direction from Goldenfields. The route leads about 30 miles to the point where it crosses the Cairn Road. From there, you would take the Dessarin Road all the way to Calling Horns, then turn east, follow the Dessarin River. enter the High Forest to Shadowtop Cathedral.
Hill Giant: You gained from Lob that his village is located somewhere in a hill region north of Goldenfields. He's pretty vague about exactly where this would be, though.
You'd been wandering for a few weeks in the wilderness north of Goldenfields, in the areas around the Dessarin Valley when you spotted a horde of armed hill giants, ogres, bugbears, and goblins moving south through the Forlorn Hills. You steered well clear of them to avoid being spotted, however you stumbled across them again about a week later. The were traveling south, but you noticed that the numbers of this army were greatly reduced; perhaps they had run into one of the barbarian tribes that you know roam these areas. Or maybe the encountered a dragon.
At any rate, being very curious about the intentions of this small monstrous army, you followed them south until they reached a massive, walled town. While you watched as one group scaled the wall under the cover of night, you continued to follow the other group as they moved around the the south side of the town and begun a full-fledged assault on the main gates. There were six hill giants total, six ogres, and a mess of goblins, perhaps thirty or more. The ogres were all wearing strange contraptions on their backs, and when the battle began, you realized that these machines were designed to fling the armored goblins over the wall as live missiles.
Still hanging back, you watched as a group of four people emerged from the other side of the wall and confronted the army. One of them was shooting fire bolts, one was riding in an awakened tree and casting spells from within her perch high in the branches, a fast moving tiefling was using stealth and siege tactics to antagonize the ogres and goblins, while the fourth, a small gnome bravely took on the giants with melee attacks.
These four were soon joined by a battalion of spear-wielding town guards, and eventually, the giants and ogres were all killed, and the remaining goblins fled. You caught and killed a few of them as they passed by you, small cowards running for their lives, now that the battle had been lost.
After everyone had returned inside the town, your curiosity led you to enter the town as well. After passing through the main gates, and submitting to a quick search of your belongings by the guards, you were allowed to enter. You saw some of the carnage that had ensured, likely damage from the goblins who were catapulted over the walls and had crashed to violent deaths, causing small craters in the dirt, and sometimes landing on a stray cart.
Walking shortly past the walls, you saw a 20-foot-tall wooden statue of a plump, smiling woman standing with her hands on her hips in a garden of golden wheat, surrounded by a dirt roundabout. North of the statue is a stone building with an open front, above which hangs a sign that reads “Earth Mother’s Bounty.”
Just outside of the small building, you spotted a small halfling woman, and you could tell by her dress and the aire of nature and wildness that she displayed, you guessed her to be druid. This woman also quickly recognized you as person of nature, much like you are. This was confirmed, when she greeted you in the secret language of the druids. This caught you by surprise, since you've been by yourself for quite a spell, but you felt welcomed by her kind demeanor.
She invited you into her seed shop, and you spent the afternoon in her company, talking with her about various topics, one of which was the giant attacks. You learned that there had been another one upon the temple farm of Goldenfields just a few weeks ago, and you shared with her your own alarm by what you have seen out in the wilds: the unnatural imbalance of giants and other monsters who have been conducting more raids, often times banding together to do even more damage, both against civilized places, and out in nature.
You visited with the woman, who's name is Sevembra Tumbleleaf, and when the afternoon turned to evening, she invited you to spend the night at her home in the back of the shop. You accepted the invitation, and after speaking with her late into the evening, you retired and slept inside for the first time in a very long stretch of time. During your talks, it was obvious that you two shared a very similar devotion to preserving the balance of nature and that these cruel, and often evil-inspired monstrous attacks should be stopped.
At one point, showing you her total trust, Sevembra shared with you that she was, in fact, a member of a loose group of far-ranging activists who work to oppose threats to the natural world and help others survive the many perils of the wild. They are called the Emerald Enclave, and they seek to keep the elemental forces of the world in check, keep civilization and the wilderness from destroying one another, and help others survive the perils of the wilderness. You were curious to hear about them, and under the flickering firelight that glowed from her hearth, Sevembra inquired if you too would be invested in joining this organization.
(Of course, the decision is entirely up to you, and you may choose to accept or decline.)
“I think waterdeep sounds like the best option for now. How long did Lob walk, I wonder? I’m tempted to go north a bit and see if we can scout the village, but maybe this is bigger than some hill giants…. Belkas and Vernon- your thoughts? .” Arisa says. She seems uncertain of the best course.
"Truthfully, I am tempted to follow Lob up north. My guess is that his village is in the Sumberin Hills, some three days walk from here, perhaps more if he gets lost. And then we could head over to Shadowtop Cathedral another week or so the the east. But if the rest of you prefer to return to Waterdeep, I am happy to do that as well."
"Waterdeep should be the quicker path to complete. We are also more likely to find a replacement, such as is possible, for Osmord, who would be of help when we do find more giants."
"Sounds like we be leanin' towards Waterdeep as a group then. If Lob's kin are close enough we can scout them out then 'ead to tha' City o' Speldors after. Mind if they be that close then might as be a bigger threat, so's we'd want ta' come back 'ere on tha' way ta' Waterdeep, make sure folk 'ere are aware at least. On tha' other 'and, would the guard 'ere mind watchin' Lob fer a while? Could 'ead ta Waterdeep first, than return 'ere to follow tha' giant home. Or even let tha' locals do tha' scoutin' fer us while we're away."
Siobhan sits cross-legged on the floor across Sevembra in her chair. A seat on a fire-warmed rug is no discomfort and enables firbolg and halfling to speak nearly eye-to-eye. She has not seen a fellow druid in almost two years; the closest she has come was the occasional wereraven who at least have kinship as werebeasts. To even speak with Sevembra is a taste of the home she has given up for lost. And here Sevembra is offering even more - membership to a network of druids and druid-minded folk with roots across the continent.
With no hesitation, Siobhan responds, “I would be most honored to join the greater circle that is the Emerald Enclave.”
She pauses a moment and her confidence wavers. It takes a few stops and starts before she finds the words. “I would never step away from my mission, but I must know. What chance do you think this Enclave has of a deep forest druid circle within their roots? One that has lost a firbolg initiate?”
Sevembra responds to your agreement with a warm smile that puts visible crinkles into the corners of her halfling eyes. She gets up and walks over to a small wooden box and retrieves something. Then, coming back over to you, she presents you with a small copper cloak clasp that's stamped with a stag and accented with green enamel.
"My dear Siobhan, and fellow watcher of the woods, I present you with this insignia and welcome you to the cause, bestowing upon you the rank of Springwarden in the Emerald Enclave. Others will know you by this symbol, and will offer you comfort or provide you with aid, should you require, just as you would be expected to do so."
"As a member of the Enclave, you hold that you will do all you can to do the following:"
Preserve and restore the natural order.
Destroy all that is unnatural.
Keep the elemental forces of the world in check.
Keep civilization and the wilderness from destroying one another.
"In the end, we live by this creed:"
The natural order must be respected and preserved.
Forces that upset the natural order must be destroyed.
Civilization and the wilderness must learn to coexist peacefully.
"You are now one of us, my friend, and together, we are the we are the defenders of the wilds and of those who do not fully understand it. We must be mindful that many folk have forgotten that there exists an ancient natural order. To touch that primal order is the touch the very power that guides all life, and those who walk the way of the Emerald Enclave are thereso infused with this power. We embody it and it is what moves us to live and work the ways that we do. It's for this power that we are never alone, and even in the midsts of a crowded city that's filled with noise and distractions, we can still feel the presence of the natural world inside us. As a fellow druid, I know that you already feel this, for it's what makes us feel alive; it gives us strength. As a member of the Enclave, we further seek to make the awareness of this power available to all."
A tear comes to Sevembra's eye when she hears you say the last part, and she places her small hand on your heart. "My dear firbolg friend, I sense your uncertainty, and it makes my heart weep... I can see that you are somewhat lost in your own heart, and I do not fully understand your question, but know this: The roots of the world know that you walk among the trees, and they will be there for you to provide you with the light and guidance you need, just as I will... just as others in the Enclave will, even during times of doubt."
"As long as you remain true to your own heart, your own mission and to the that of the Enclave, the light will find you, even in the darkest places. Let us retire now, and then we will enjoy the warmth of the sunrise when morning comes. And then you will take the first steps on your new path."
The next morning, you and Sevembra enjoy a breakfast of sunflower seeds, almonds and fresh fruit, and then the two of you head outside to enjoy the fresh air and warning sunlight of the morning. As you're standing there, enjoying the morning, you suddenly see a group of six people walking down the road towards the shop. You instantly recognize four of them as being the same four brave and capable individuals who were flighting the giants and ogres outside the wall yesterday as you watched the battle from your own position outside the wall.
You also see that the the woman who was fighting in the branches of the awakened tree and the small gnome both wear the same insignia that Sevembra presented you with last night during your initiation into the Emerald Enclave.
Assuming that you have made your decision to head first to Waterdeep, Zi Liang and Father Darovik bid you farewell and good luck, and you leave the Abbey. Returning to Northfurrow's End to say goodbye to Miros, he bids you a very hearty and warm goodbye, and gives both Arisa and Vernon additional, knowing nods when he sees that you now wear the insignia of the Emerald Enclave. For the first time, you also noticed that he's wearing the same symbol as well. He tells that you all that you're welcome back anytime, and that you have free room and board anytime you pass through Goldenfields. He also gives you each a parcel that contains food for your journey, including some very generous cuts of dried meats, hunks of cheese and fresh baked bread.
Naxene also bids you farewell and is happy to hear that you are planning on returning to Waterdeep right away to see “dragon expert” Chazlauth Yarghorn, and she provides directions to his residence in the city’s North Ward: a tall stone house with a tower on one corner.
You also retrieve Elion, who has been hanging out at the inn with Shalvus. They seem to have formed quite a bond of friendship, especially after fighting alongside one another during last night's battles. Shalvus tells you that he's planning to travel to Daggerford, and he asks if you mind if he travels with you to Waterdeep, since it's on the way.
Once you've gathered your belongings and said your final farewells, the four of you, plus Elion and Shalvus leave the inn and begin walking the long dusty road towards the front gate. You pass the fields and the animal pens, where you fought one of your battles last night, and then as out get closer to the gatehouse, you come upon the 20-foot high statue of Chanutea and the small store called Earth Mother's Bounty.
Just outside the shop, you see two people standing outside, seemingly enjoying the sunshine, one is a small, but sturdy halfling woman with long, very dark brown hair, some of which is tied up in small brands, and who's dressed in earth colored clothing. Towering over her in height, well over 7 feet tall, is a creature of the sorts which most of you have never seen before, with long floppy ears, short, thick fur covering her face, wearing hide armor, and carrying equipment that would indicate that this is some kind of adventurer, perhaps a druid of some sort.
((Cbrow... your can now describe Siobhan in whatever detail you wish.))
As you walk by, you can see this creature staring at you with a seemingly curious look, and both Arisa and Vernon pause, as they instantly spot the small copper pin she wears on that's stamped with a stag and accented with green enamel. You see that the halfling also wears the same pin. They both look at you with curious interest in their eyes.
Arisa steps forward to introduce herself “Fellow members of the Enerald Enclave? Well met. I am Arisa, cleric of Mystra. My companions and I have been involved with the defense of Goldenfields from the recent giant, Ogre and goblin attacks.”
Arisa appears as an attractive young human woman with tanned skin, long brown hair and green eyes, clad in blued scale mail with a weathered blue hooded traveling cloak, brown boots, and a leather backpack. She carries a shield with a blue 8-pointed star in one hand and a quarterstaff in the other.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
To post a comment, please login or register a new account.
Father Darovik nods his head and receives Vernon's bow with a slight bow of his own. "You are correct, master gnome, many of our members worship Mielikki the Forest Queen. In fact, she is one of those who appoint the three chosen members of our Elder Circle. Mielikki is a very important figure in our cause."
He then reaches into the folds of his cloak and presents you with a small copper cloak clasp that's stamped with a stag and accented with green enamel, which he tells you is the symbol of the Emerald Enclave.
"I welcome you to the cause, my brother, and with this insignia, I bestow upon you the rank of Springwarden in the Emerald Enclave. Others will know you by this symbol, and will offer you comfort or provide you with aid, should you require, just as you would be expected to do so."
"As a member of the Enclave, you hold that you will do all you can to do the following:"
"In the end, we live by this creed:"
"In the words of one of our chief rangers, Delaan Winterhoud:
"We are the defenders of the wilderness and of the society that does not understand it. Most have forgotten that there is an ancient, natural order that existed long before our intellectual concepts of it. To come into contact with that primal order is to touch the power that guides all of life. Those who walk the way of the Emerald Enclave are infused with this power; we embody it, and it moves us to do our work. That is why we are never alone. Even in the midst of a noisy, crowded city we can feel the presence of the natural world inside us, fresh, strong, and alive. The Enclave seeks to make awareness of this power available to all."
--------------------
To Arisa, he says, "Your mother was correct. After the Mother of All Magic was assassinated by Shar and Cyric, a terrible even that triggered the Spellplauge, members of our faction were sent throughout the Vilhon Wilds, near the Sea of Fallen Stars, to help counter the effects of this terrible cataclysm. It was then that our original mission changed from one of respect for and guardianship of nature to a much more dire struggle against forces that were far beyond their control."
"I welcome you to the Emerald Enclave as Springwarden also, my sister. Here is your insignia to wear."
((Anyone else who wishes to join will also receive the Emerald Enclave insignia and be welcomed as a new member under the rank of "Springwarden."))
"Thank you Father, for this generous offer. However, I will have to decline at this point of time. I am glad to have you as friends though, and I am also willing to lend a hand when I am able."
"That is quite alright, my friend. In no way does this diminish my gratitude for your efforts yesterday. I hear that you fought bravely and led the assault upon the giants outside the wall in the final battle with your tiefling companion, and that is to be commended. The Earth Mother knows what you have done, and she bestows her blessings upon you."
"Father, if we could ask your advice, we seek to understand what is causing the giants to attack Goldenfields and Nightstone, and perhaps other towns and cities. We are considering following the captured giant back to its village, Lifferlas has suggested seeking aid from a long lost druid, and Naxene recommends returning to Waterdeep for more information. Do you have a recommendation on the best path to follow?"
"Both of those sound like good courses of action. If there's information to be gained on any subject, Waterdeep is like a good place to find it. And I know of the druid who awakened Lifferlas. Aerglas was a member of the Enclave who slew many giants back in his day. In fact, many of our organization are druids. He left Goldenfields quite a number of years ago, perhaps thirty. I know not what became of him, but if you are able to locate him, he could be a good resource."
As Father Darovik speaks, Zi Liang, who has been listening during this time, interjects.
"If you are planning to return to Waterdeep, then I would ask something of you, as well. That is what I wanted to speak with you about. My family owned several businesses in Waterdeep, trading in silks, oils, maps and other fine items and commodities. They passed a few years ago and entrusted my inheritance the caretakers of their house."
"My place is here at the Abbey, so I have not returned to claim my inheritance, nor do I have need for it. However, having fought alongside you yesterday, and knowing that some of you have now pledge yourself to the Enclave in the interest of helping to stop terrible imbalance that has plagued the land, I would offer it to you."
She reaches into a pouch on her belt and produces a black pearl pendent that looks quite valuable. She then gives it to you. "If you bring this to Waterdeep and present it to Caldur Marskyl, who is the head butler at House Thann, then he will know that I have bequeathed my inheritance to you. Whatever it is that was left to me should help you even further in your tasks ahead"
Zyllith opted to remain silent while the Father spoke. She had no interest in joining this Enclave, or any other organization at the moment. Besides, even should she decide to join some order in the future, she thought to herself, then it would be easier not to be tied to another potentially conflicting organization. That would serve the group far better in the long run. So for the most part she remained a few steps back, quietly watching while the others tended to their Enclave initiations.
When Zi Liang spoke up and explained her inheritance, Zyllith found herself more interested. Stepping forward, she walked up to Zi Liang taking the offered pendant in her hand. "Are ye' sure ye' wanna part wit' this, luv? Any house in Waterdeep what's big enough ta' have a head butler is gots ta' be big enough tha' any inheritance would be mighty valuable. Might be valuable enough ta' help out yer Abby kin 'ere."
Should she still choose to give the party the inheritance, Zyllith will graciously thank her for the gift, making sure to secure the black pearl pendant on her person.
Sylnache Ashrain - 7th Sojourn
Arisa says “We deeply appreciate this gift. I hope that we can find the source of this evil threat and defeat it- we will certainly need help with that. And I will be a faithful member of the Emerald Enclave, I am honored to join.”
Belkas thanks both Father Darovik and Zi Liang. He knows it wouldn't be safe for him to stay long enough in one place to really take advantage of a property; however, having a house to stay at when he visits Waterdeep could be helpful.
If nothing else comes up, Belkas says goodbye. When the four of them are alone again, he says, "Now we are alone, I wanted to do this." He crouches down and makes a small hole in the ground with his knife. He takes out a goblin toe he picked up from the battlefield in the morning and places it in the hollow. "Osmord, whatever paths your dark gods have taken you down, I wish you well. You were a companion of few words and strange eating habits, but you had a good heart and were a true friend. You will be missed." He covers the hole with loose dirt and gets up.
"Any preferences on what to do next? Follow the giant, go to Waterdeep, or search for the lost druid? I am ready to move on. "
Expanding on what Belkas just said, it is a little odd that you have not seen Osmord since yesterday right before the big battle. He was with you when the first goblin missile came over the wall, but in the scramble to come up with a strategy and send the four of you out to engage with the giant/ogre/goblin army outside the wall, he seems to have disappeared. None of the others who were with you saw him step away from the group; he was there one minute, and then when the chaos was over, he was nowhere to be seen, and there's no telling where he went or why he left.
Arisa says “ Zi Liang- is there some way we could get a message back here? My thought is we could follow the giant and locate it’s village, but then head towards either the Druid- if we know where to go, or waterdeep. We’re not strong enough to take on a giant village. But we could send the information about where it is back here. Does anyone keep messenger pigeons or the like?”
"Aye, depends on whot direction tha' giant 'eads, yea? If'n it heads closer ta' Waterdeep, we'll 'ead there next. As fer tha' druid, we'd 'ave ta' ask Lifferlas where's he's last seen. Then we can 'ead there if it's closer from tha' giants. Though, if I 'ad ta' pick jus' one; Me guts leadin' me towards Waterdeep. Partly 'cause I'm curious whot 'em Black Network folk are up to in all this shite."
Sylnache Ashrain - 7th Sojourn
FYI - Here is a map for Western Faerûn, and some general directions for your next locations.
Waterdeep: From Goldenfields, you know it's a three day walk back down the Northfurrow Trail, about 90 miles Waterdeep.
Shadowtop Cathedral: This location, where you would look for Lifferlas's Druid friend, is located about 250 miles in the opposite direction from Goldenfields. The route leads about 30 miles to the point where it crosses the Cairn Road. From there, you would take the Dessarin Road all the way to Calling Horns, then turn east, follow the Dessarin River. enter the High Forest to Shadowtop Cathedral.
Hill Giant: You gained from Lob that his village is located somewhere in a hill region north of Goldenfields. He's pretty vague about exactly where this would be, though.
Siobhan
You'd been wandering for a few weeks in the wilderness north of Goldenfields, in the areas around the Dessarin Valley when you spotted a horde of armed hill giants, ogres, bugbears, and goblins moving south through the Forlorn Hills. You steered well clear of them to avoid being spotted, however you stumbled across them again about a week later. The were traveling south, but you noticed that the numbers of this army were greatly reduced; perhaps they had run into one of the barbarian tribes that you know roam these areas. Or maybe the encountered a dragon.
At any rate, being very curious about the intentions of this small monstrous army, you followed them south until they reached a massive, walled town. While you watched as one group scaled the wall under the cover of night, you continued to follow the other group as they moved around the the south side of the town and begun a full-fledged assault on the main gates. There were six hill giants total, six ogres, and a mess of goblins, perhaps thirty or more. The ogres were all wearing strange contraptions on their backs, and when the battle began, you realized that these machines were designed to fling the armored goblins over the wall as live missiles.
Still hanging back, you watched as a group of four people emerged from the other side of the wall and confronted the army. One of them was shooting fire bolts, one was riding in an awakened tree and casting spells from within her perch high in the branches, a fast moving tiefling was using stealth and siege tactics to antagonize the ogres and goblins, while the fourth, a small gnome bravely took on the giants with melee attacks.
These four were soon joined by a battalion of spear-wielding town guards, and eventually, the giants and ogres were all killed, and the remaining goblins fled. You caught and killed a few of them as they passed by you, small cowards running for their lives, now that the battle had been lost.
After everyone had returned inside the town, your curiosity led you to enter the town as well. After passing through the main gates, and submitting to a quick search of your belongings by the guards, you were allowed to enter. You saw some of the carnage that had ensured, likely damage from the goblins who were catapulted over the walls and had crashed to violent deaths, causing small craters in the dirt, and sometimes landing on a stray cart.
Walking shortly past the walls, you saw a 20-foot-tall wooden statue of a plump, smiling woman standing with her hands on her hips in a garden of golden wheat, surrounded by a dirt roundabout. North of the statue is a stone building with an open front, above which hangs a sign that reads “Earth Mother’s Bounty.”
Just outside of the small building, you spotted a small halfling woman, and you could tell by her dress and the aire of nature and wildness that she displayed, you guessed her to be druid. This woman also quickly recognized you as person of nature, much like you are. This was confirmed, when she greeted you in the secret language of the druids. This caught you by surprise, since you've been by yourself for quite a spell, but you felt welcomed by her kind demeanor.
She invited you into her seed shop, and you spent the afternoon in her company, talking with her about various topics, one of which was the giant attacks. You learned that there had been another one upon the temple farm of Goldenfields just a few weeks ago, and you shared with her your own alarm by what you have seen out in the wilds: the unnatural imbalance of giants and other monsters who have been conducting more raids, often times banding together to do even more damage, both against civilized places, and out in nature.
You visited with the woman, who's name is Sevembra Tumbleleaf, and when the afternoon turned to evening, she invited you to spend the night at her home in the back of the shop. You accepted the invitation, and after speaking with her late into the evening, you retired and slept inside for the first time in a very long stretch of time. During your talks, it was obvious that you two shared a very similar devotion to preserving the balance of nature and that these cruel, and often evil-inspired monstrous attacks should be stopped.
At one point, showing you her total trust, Sevembra shared with you that she was, in fact, a member of a loose group of far-ranging activists who work to oppose threats to the natural world and help others survive the many perils of the wild. They are called the Emerald Enclave, and they seek to keep the elemental forces of the world in check, keep civilization and the wilderness from destroying one another, and help others survive the perils of the wilderness. You were curious to hear about them, and under the flickering firelight that glowed from her hearth, Sevembra inquired if you too would be invested in joining this organization.
(Of course, the decision is entirely up to you, and you may choose to accept or decline.)
“I think waterdeep sounds like the best option for now. How long did Lob walk, I wonder? I’m tempted to go north a bit and see if we can scout the village, but maybe this is bigger than some hill giants…. Belkas and Vernon- your thoughts? .” Arisa says. She seems uncertain of the best course.
"Truthfully, I am tempted to follow Lob up north. My guess is that his village is in the Sumberin Hills, some three days walk from here, perhaps more if he gets lost. And then we could head over to Shadowtop Cathedral another week or so the the east. But if the rest of you prefer to return to Waterdeep, I am happy to do that as well."
"Waterdeep should be the quicker path to complete. We are also more likely to find a replacement, such as is possible, for Osmord, who would be of help when we do find more giants."
"Sounds like we be leanin' towards Waterdeep as a group then. If Lob's kin are close enough we can scout them out then 'ead to tha' City o' Speldors after. Mind if they be that close then might as be a bigger threat, so's we'd want ta' come back 'ere on tha' way ta' Waterdeep, make sure folk 'ere are aware at least. On tha' other 'and, would the guard 'ere mind watchin' Lob fer a while? Could 'ead ta Waterdeep first, than return 'ere to follow tha' giant home. Or even let tha' locals do tha' scoutin' fer us while we're away."
Sylnache Ashrain - 7th Sojourn
Siobhan sits cross-legged on the floor across Sevembra in her chair. A seat on a fire-warmed rug is no discomfort and enables firbolg and halfling to speak nearly eye-to-eye. She has not seen a fellow druid in almost two years; the closest she has come was the occasional wereraven who at least have kinship as werebeasts. To even speak with Sevembra is a taste of the home she has given up for lost. And here Sevembra is offering even more - membership to a network of druids and druid-minded folk with roots across the continent.
With no hesitation, Siobhan responds, “I would be most honored to join the greater circle that is the Emerald Enclave.”
She pauses a moment and her confidence wavers. It takes a few stops and starts before she finds the words. “I would never step away from my mission, but I must know. What chance do you think this Enclave has of a deep forest druid circle within their roots? One that has lost a firbolg initiate?”
Siobhan stops, unable to say more.
Siobhan
Sevembra responds to your agreement with a warm smile that puts visible crinkles into the corners of her halfling eyes. She gets up and walks over to a small wooden box and retrieves something. Then, coming back over to you, she presents you with a small copper cloak clasp that's stamped with a stag and accented with green enamel.
"My dear Siobhan, and fellow watcher of the woods, I present you with this insignia and welcome you to the cause, bestowing upon you the rank of Springwarden in the Emerald Enclave. Others will know you by this symbol, and will offer you comfort or provide you with aid, should you require, just as you would be expected to do so."
"As a member of the Enclave, you hold that you will do all you can to do the following:"
"In the end, we live by this creed:"
"You are now one of us, my friend, and together, we are the we are the defenders of the wilds and of those who do not fully understand it. We must be mindful that many folk have forgotten that there exists an ancient natural order. To touch that primal order is the touch the very power that guides all life, and those who walk the way of the Emerald Enclave are thereso infused with this power. We embody it and it is what moves us to live and work the ways that we do. It's for this power that we are never alone, and even in the midsts of a crowded city that's filled with noise and distractions, we can still feel the presence of the natural world inside us. As a fellow druid, I know that you already feel this, for it's what makes us feel alive; it gives us strength. As a member of the Enclave, we further seek to make the awareness of this power available to all."
A tear comes to Sevembra's eye when she hears you say the last part, and she places her small hand on your heart. "My dear firbolg friend, I sense your uncertainty, and it makes my heart weep... I can see that you are somewhat lost in your own heart, and I do not fully understand your question, but know this: The roots of the world know that you walk among the trees, and they will be there for you to provide you with the light and guidance you need, just as I will... just as others in the Enclave will, even during times of doubt."
"As long as you remain true to your own heart, your own mission and to the that of the Enclave, the light will find you, even in the darkest places. Let us retire now, and then we will enjoy the warmth of the sunrise when morning comes. And then you will take the first steps on your new path."
The next morning, you and Sevembra enjoy a breakfast of sunflower seeds, almonds and fresh fruit, and then the two of you head outside to enjoy the fresh air and warning sunlight of the morning. As you're standing there, enjoying the morning, you suddenly see a group of six people walking down the road towards the shop. You instantly recognize four of them as being the same four brave and capable individuals who were flighting the giants and ogres outside the wall yesterday as you watched the battle from your own position outside the wall.
You also see that the the woman who was fighting in the branches of the awakened tree and the small gnome both wear the same insignia that Sevembra presented you with last night during your initiation into the Emerald Enclave.
Assuming that you have made your decision to head first to Waterdeep, Zi Liang and Father Darovik bid you farewell and good luck, and you leave the Abbey. Returning to Northfurrow's End to say goodbye to Miros, he bids you a very hearty and warm goodbye, and gives both Arisa and Vernon additional, knowing nods when he sees that you now wear the insignia of the Emerald Enclave. For the first time, you also noticed that he's wearing the same symbol as well. He tells that you all that you're welcome back anytime, and that you have free room and board anytime you pass through Goldenfields. He also gives you each a parcel that contains food for your journey, including some very generous cuts of dried meats, hunks of cheese and fresh baked bread.
Naxene also bids you farewell and is happy to hear that you are planning on returning to Waterdeep right away to see “dragon expert” Chazlauth Yarghorn, and she provides directions to his residence in the city’s North Ward: a tall stone house with a tower on one corner.
You also retrieve Elion, who has been hanging out at the inn with Shalvus. They seem to have formed quite a bond of friendship, especially after fighting alongside one another during last night's battles. Shalvus tells you that he's planning to travel to Daggerford, and he asks if you mind if he travels with you to Waterdeep, since it's on the way.
Once you've gathered your belongings and said your final farewells, the four of you, plus Elion and Shalvus leave the inn and begin walking the long dusty road towards the front gate. You pass the fields and the animal pens, where you fought one of your battles last night, and then as out get closer to the gatehouse, you come upon the 20-foot high statue of Chanutea and the small store called Earth Mother's Bounty.
Just outside the shop, you see two people standing outside, seemingly enjoying the sunshine, one is a small, but sturdy halfling woman with long, very dark brown hair, some of which is tied up in small brands, and who's dressed in earth colored clothing. Towering over her in height, well over 7 feet tall, is a creature of the sorts which most of you have never seen before, with long floppy ears, short, thick fur covering her face, wearing hide armor, and carrying equipment that would indicate that this is some kind of adventurer, perhaps a druid of some sort.
((Cbrow... your can now describe Siobhan in whatever detail you wish.))
As you walk by, you can see this creature staring at you with a seemingly curious look, and both Arisa and Vernon pause, as they instantly spot the small copper pin she wears on that's stamped with a stag and accented with green enamel. You see that the halfling also wears the same pin. They both look at you with curious interest in their eyes.
Arisa steps forward to introduce herself “Fellow members of the Enerald Enclave? Well met. I am Arisa, cleric of Mystra. My companions and I have been involved with the defense of Goldenfields from the recent giant, Ogre and goblin attacks.”
Arisa appears as an attractive young human woman with tanned skin, long brown hair and green eyes, clad in blued scale mail with a weathered blue hooded traveling cloak, brown boots, and a leather backpack. She carries a shield with a blue 8-pointed star in one hand and a quarterstaff in the other.