This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Qidira, starting to feel the heat herself, looks over at the wolves trying to sense if they are dealing ok with it. Wondering silently who will care for them when Tulgi is gone. nature16
Turning back to observe that Tulgi still didn't touch the soup. She waits as listens as the discussion continues, making mental notes of people and places. Then Tulgi hiding quickly amongst the blankets again seeking warmth and maybe the solace that blankets can bring to a saddened soul.
Seeing Kotar looking for the receipt, she gets up to join him in the search, looking for some way in which she can help. investigation17
Then when the dagger comes into discussion, the little rock gnome returns to the others, "May I? Look at it I mean? I have a knack with things and have studied all my life about histories and how things work. A dagger may seem obvious to everyone, but maybe I've seen this one before in books?" She asks gently, as she always had to do when pretending to be a child in the city. "See, things I'm good at." She quickly places a little rectangular music box, an animated mechanical bird, and a small lighter on the table nearby to demonstrate. Then glances over at Tulgi trying to brighten her spirits a little, she opens the lid to the little music box and cranks the little handle slowly, bringing forth a quick melody of a lullaby not likely heard in this area. history13
(edited to add investigation roll for search of receipt as Kotar action came up the same time mine did. should not have given a manipulated roll result though - didn't touch the others, its being quirky lately. Nature was around 17 I think, and History was 23 or 21. I'm not sure why they re-rolled. Doesn't usually do that with the type of edit I made.)
@dm
doubled proficiency check per Artificer’s LoreBR, pg. 37 Whenever you make an Intelligence (History) check related to magic items, alchemical objects, or technological devices, you can add twice your proficiency bonus, instead of any proficiency bonus you normally apply.
Ressys watched placidly as Tulgi defied Kotar's scrutiny. When she calmed down he smiles again. "I can assure you that I have no interest in the morality of your actions. That is not my place and is not what we are here for. We are under no orders to investigate what the village may consider theft. Our concern is figuring out what made you sick and can we stop it. Now tell me, who are the Uttolots?"
Brandon shifts his cloak in the oppressive heat. The mention of the other items discovered in Eiselcross both excites him and worries him. They will have to track down all of them to determine which, if any of them or all of them, were tied to this mystery illness. The list of individuals in contact with the items was also continuing to grow. They would have to move fast.
He encourages Tulgi to show the group the dagger, echoing Durnham’s request. “Go ahead, Tulgi, place the dagger in the hand, or on the table if you prefer. Just let us get a better look. I fear the dagger may be the cause of your illness, and letting it go may be the first step to recovery.”
Tulgi takes the dagger from her belt, brings it out from under the covers and looks at it, shock etched on her face. It truly is exquisite, with fine etching across the blade and intricate metalwork throughout. “So, this could be...what kills me?”
@Kotar:
You cannot see a receipt anywhere, or anything else of interest
@Qidira:
The wolves are docile but seem far from fully domesticated. Should the worse happen to Tulgi, you think they could return to the wild and survive. They are also conditioned enough to adopt a new housemate, provided the prospective ‘owner’ was an accomplished handler.
Tulgi places the dagger on the floating ethereal hand, seemingly cowed into compliance by the combination of revelations and spellcasting displays.As the blade hovers over to be nearer to you all, Qidira appraises it with her expertise.
@Qidira:
You recognise the dagger’s style almost instantly, and the name ‘Aeor’ mentioned by Durnham confirms your hunch. Aeor was the floating city of a massively advanced civilisation, who challenged the gods themselves in battle – and nearly won – during the great war known as the Calamity at least 8oo years ago. Eventually defeated in combat by an unlikely coalition of Good and Evil gods, Aeor was flung into Eiselcross where it crashed, killing every Aeorian on board. Explorers, adventurers and state-sponsored expeditions scour Eiselcross to this day, hungry for the potent (and dangerous) treasures scattered across the frozen land.
While Qidira examines the blade – without touching it – Tulgi answers Ressys’s question: “The Uttolots are one of the largest crime families of Shadycreek Run, where me and Hulil grew up. They sent us here to keep an eye out for treasures coming back from Eiselcross”
Seeing Kotar looking around the cabin, Tulgi coughs and says “Whatever you’re looking for it’s probably not here. Anything that I didn’t give to Hulil – apart from that dagger – is still at Pelc’s or Urgon’s”
Turning her attention back to the dagger as it floats in mid-air, she asks Qidira hopefully “What do you see? Is it the dagger that is poisoning us?”
The translucent hand will float over to a table and carefully lay it down before the hand fades away.
“Nobody touch that thing until we can make sure it is safe! Treat it like a venomous serpent that can kill you if you get too close.” Durnham nervously wipes his sweaty hands on his coat. Although his hands shake his voice is firm and his gaze is steady.
”To answer your question, Kotar, no. I do not have the ability to identify magical items at this time. I have studied such magic and am close but not quite able to perform those rituals. Furthermore, even if I knew the spell or ritual, it requires a pearl that I do not possess.”
He wipes the sweat of his brow and glances around the room and at his companions, ”Does anyone have a box or chest we can keep this thing in? A metal box would be best but stone or wood could be helpful, if nothing else a damn sack to put it in?”
He then turns to Qidira and asks softly ”Will you help me with this? Perhaps I can glean some information by examining it closer and you seem to have some skill in this as well.”
Durnham then resummons his spectral hand with the same twisting motion and the word “Mano.” Using the spectral mage hand he again lifts the dagger and peers closely at it. Using the hand to turn it it and examine it from every angle, being absolutely careful not to touch it.
24 Investigation with help from Qidira. I hope my macro was correct.
He will continue to resummon the spectral hand as needed and will whisper with Qidira as they collaborate on the investigation.
Ressys watches as the dagger is handed over and Qidira and Durnham begin their examination of the weapon.
"Two blue vials? Did you examine them closely or open them? Of all the items listed these would be what I think is causing the problem. It is surely possible any of these items is cursed but my guess is something more natural. Were the vials broken perhaps?"
Looking back at the two wolves. "And what of these two? Do they have names? Is there food around for them to eat? Is there anything I can do to care for them while you are in bed sick? And if the worst should happen what then happens to them?"
Ressys' concern shifts to the two wolves. It is clear to him, at least, there is nothing he can do for Tulgi. If the villages priests could do nothing he didn't feel confident the powers he had would cure Tulgi. He had other abilities but had not prepared them this day. This was not what he was expecting to do today. Perhaps if there was time tomorrow he could prepare better and return.
Qidira eyes the dagger, thankful for Durnham's assistance in moving it about so that she may examine it then almost immediately turns and nods at Durnham. "You are most certainly correct!" Then starts speaking excitedly, "This dagger is from Aeor, the design is unmistakable." She hesitates for a second gesturing at detail on the dagger. "Then resuming quickly. You see, well you likely know, but Aeor was the floating city of a massively advanced civilization, who challenged the gods themselves in battle – and nearly won – during the great war known as the Calamity at least 800 years ago. Eventually when they were defeated in combat by an unlikely coalition of Good and Evil gods, Aeor was flung into Eiselcross where it crashed, killing every Aeorian on board. Explorers, adventurers and state-sponsored expeditions scour Eiselcross to this day, hungry for the potent (and dangerous) treasures scattered across the frozen land. This is one of them! I couldn't tell you of the magic, but the history is incredible! It would be best for me not to touch it as magical items sometimes attune themselves to people, but what a wonderful discovery! I am not familiar with any historical reference to curses or poison related to items from Eiselcross, so I could not be sure in that respect." Speaking to Tulgi on that last and seems to be thinking deeply.
@dm
Is she aware of any curses on items from Eiselcross? New roll?
Hearing Ressys speak with concern over the wolves, she puts them out of her mind, as he'll surely have contacts being more local than she to be sure they are taken care of.
Qidira and Durnham continue to study the dagger from every angle while consulting in the design and materials, but can come to no further conclusion than the fact that it is Aeorian in design and enchanted. They see no sign of poison residue, spores or anything else that suggests the dagger was coated with a lethal substance.
@Qidira:
Qidira is unsure on curses; not familiar with details of items coming back from Eiselcross, only that they do, and are usually highly sought-after. There’s certainly no common tales of curses related to Eiselcross or Aeor.
Tulgi dismisses Ressys’s question about the glass vials “I did not look at them closely, they were probably the least interesting of the articles. But they came from Eiselcross so would likely fetch a good price. They did not seem broken, but as I say – I was a little preoccupied with my efforts to stop and check them. As for those two” she says, turning her attention to the wolves “They’ll be OK. I’ve not smothered them so much as to take away their edge” She looks to you with a glimmer in her eye that belies her true nature, the person who would not be struck down with illness and desperate for a cure; “They’re not too picky about what they eat”
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Durnham will also examine the dagger and try to determine if there is any iconography or other indications which might suggest it was ceremonial or religious in nature. 23 Religion check. “Qidira, do you know much about religious use of such items? I wonder if there’s any indication this was used in service to some dark god or something. Tulgi said the balance was good so it seems to be a martial weapon but I wonder...”
He will then turn towards the sickened Dwarf and ask”Tulgi, did you ever use this dagger on anything or anyone? You didn’t cut yourself with it did you?”
“I am not sure what the most likely cause would be, Ressys, but I would not dismiss the other items. Weapons especially can have strong magics and curses.” Brandon shrugs “Regardless, I think we need to see for ourselves. I suggest we seek out Hulli and examine the rest of the items before they are sold or moved elsewhere. Our other options include talking with Pelc to see if Urgon told him anything of the items when he sold them and to see if he is ill, and investigating Urgon’s.." here Brandon pauses awkwardly "or Durnham’s cabin to see if there is anything Tulgi missed in her ‘inspection’.”
He pauses and looks around the cabin “We should make Tulgi as comfortable as possible and hope to return with a cure when we find out more. Tulgi, what can we do for you before we leave?”
High in the mountains of Eiselcross, Kotar was able to see wolf, hare and fowl hiding in the snow with their white coats. He was to follow the tracks of a beast despite the strong winds cutting through the land. But there, in a simple hut, he could not see a mere piece of paper. Frustrated, the Fighter waited in silence as the others questioned the thief.
“We’ll need the receipt if we want to explain to Pelc how we know about the items without mentioning your endeavors.” He said to Tulgi, after his fellows got most of their answers from her. “We can say we found the paper on Urdon’s place and go for there.”The last words he directed to his companions. “And I agree with Brandon about meeting Hulli first.”
He was more worried about the Warlock’s words than he would like to admit. As much as he could see reason Ressys’s hypothesis, that it was the blue vials or rather whatever they contained that spread this freezing sickness, he could not ignore the mere chance that any or all of the items brought by the dead dwarf could cause the same affliction. Specially after Qidira’s explanations.
“Just one thing, do we have a way to show Hulli we are not enemies barging in her stash?”
"I do not see anything of a poison or any sort of substance on this dagger, and there is no historical reference of curses or poisons that stands out from anything I've read. As for religious, hmm" religion19"I'm not so good with religious items. The dagger is likely not the cause, but we can't rule it out. Tulgi, is there a place here we can secure it. If you want it close to you, perhaps that would be ok, but maybe not on you? Just in case its the cause. Proximity could be bad too, but we want you to be safe as well in case its needed."
Qidira shakes her head to Durnham, "I don't think there is anything more I can discover about the dagger, but I'll help look for the receipt. We should go soon, this disease moves quickly, we need to check the other items to see if they could be a cause. Blue liquid in the vials, you didn't taste it did you? Just handled them?" She thinks quickly. The liquid was inside, and if she hadn't opened it, how would they have anything to do with it? A contact poison would have worn off long ago. "Perhaps, if those are the cause, we should check on Hulil as well soon. If they are ill, it's likely the other items, ruling out the dagger entirely. A map, a jade statuette, quiver and arrows, the ring and the two vials. Anything else at all that you could think of?" She asks, now shifting things around as she looks quickly. investigation20 "We must have that receipt though, Kotar's right, they'll suspect if we don't have something."
"No Brandon, not dismissed. I also agree if Hulli is also sick that would rule out the dagger. But if Pelc opened the vials before they were stolen he could have released something unknown. Anyone handling them after would have caught it. Urgon may have opened them as well. Too many unknowns at this time."
Turning again to Tulgi. "I assure you I will see to the wolves and their needs if the worst happens. I care for the wild and do not wish to see them harmed by anyone."
Ressys gets back to his feet. "I think Durnham's uncle's cabin should be next. It is getting late. It will provide a place to rest if nothing else is found there and the place seems safe. Tomorrow we can seek out Pelc's and Hulli."
You don’t discern anything religious in nature based on your . Knowledge of Aeorian society is limited to a small handful of very dedicated academics
Tulgi’s eyes are starting to droop; tiredness is setting in either from her illness or her exertions today – maybe both.
“I didn’t use it, cut anyone – just liked the look of it. I figured it might work as a...retirement pot one day...”
When Kotar presses her about the receipt and asks about avoiding conflict with Hulil, Tulgi sighs “The receipt is still at Urgon’s, didn’t need it...after I memorised it. Hulil and me never agreed a password...just say I sent you, maybe that will work...”As she says this last point, the smallest of smiles appears at the corners of her mouth.
Qidira’s question about the vials confuses Tulgi’s addled mind “Not liquid, blue glass...I think. Didn’t look too closely before...Hulil took them”
At Brandon’s offer of comfort, Tulgi murmers “Just let me rest and... find the cure. Lock door on way out...not in, heh, that order...”
The stricken dwarf’s eyes close and almost immediately her breathing goes deep and slow. The pain seeps from her face, leaving only the ragged bulging blue veins to give sign of anything other than a peacefully slumbering professional thief.
"It seems we have gotten what we will from Tulgi. Let us depart." Ressys says as he bends down once more to give the two wolves a scratch behind the ears.
Take care of her, and yourselves. Keep her warm he grunts to the wolves in the the language of beasts.
"Qidira, can you lock doors as well as you can unlock them?" He says as he stands one last time and heads out the door.
After he and Qidira finish examining the dagger, Durnham removes his backpack and uses his mage hand to slide the dagger to the bottom of his pack. He then picks up his spell book and puts it into his pack as well and shuts the pack before securing it closed.
He smiles at Quidira and says ”Thank you for the assistance Quidira. You’re very clever and talented. Come, we must let Tulgi rest and we need to discuss our next course of action. I see several possible paths ahead.” He then motions towards the door and as he makes his way outside he says softly to Tulgi in Dwarven.
”Hold on cousin. We will seek a cure to your illness as quickly as possible but you must hold on and give us time.”
Once everyone is outside he says gravely. “I doubt this dagger is the cause but I cannot be certain. I see four possible destinations for us. My Uncle’s cabin is one, this Hulgi’s cave is another. We also could check on the merchant Pelc who bought the items from my Uncle. We don’t know if they have fallen ill and they had contact with all the items too. Finally, we could go find the priests and see if they can detect a curse or have any other information from the affected to share. I feel we should go to the merchant first as they may be as sick as Tulgi and may have information that my Uncle shared with them.”
He frowns worriedly and continues.
”This whole business makes me nervous. We don’t even know if the objects have to be touched to cause the illness. Simply having them near may be enough.”
Brandon pulls his cloak back tight against the chill. After the oppressive heat of the cabin it is almost refreshing at first, but quickly turns bone-numbing as the cold takes over.
“You outline the options perfectly, Durnham. I will follow the will of the party, but my own preference is Hulli’s cave. I think it is important to track down the rest of these items and learn more about them before they are spread all over the north. Especially now that we know criminals from Shadycreek Run are involved. The other items may not be recoverable for long and if they are involved with this affliction it could spread quickly. The merchant will still be there and if he is sick there is little we can do for him until we find out more.”
He glances up at the sun to try to place it in the sky, then glances toward Ressys “Ressys makes a good point, if it is getting late, a safe place to rest and prepare for the next day may be wise. Ressys, you travel this area frequently, what do you know of this cave and the areas surrounding it?”
He looks up at a cry from the trees - that cursed Raven is still there, staring at him.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ressys also looks up at the cry from the trees. This was not the first time he noted the presence of the crow. Why do you follow us little one? he thinks to himself. But he is distracted by the question from Brandon.
"Croaker Caves eh? Let me think." (History 1)
"The village itself is on the cold shore of the Frigid Depths, the first surviving Uthodurn outpost beyond the mountains. The settlement is situated against the low cliff boundary of the Crystalsands Tundra, just north of the Flotket Alps. Off the northern cliff, about fifteen feet down to the sand-and-snow beach are docks that hold around a dozen ships, ranging from fishing vessels to small cargo ships. Any number of caves, I am sure, could be found along these cliffs as you venture north, a place for bandits and thieves, or other creatures to hide. The Grassblades stay busy guarding the village from those creatures that wander too close."
Ressys looks to Durnham.
"It is dark, lead us to your uncle's cabin. It is too late in the day to do more than stumble into trouble. Tomorrow we can seek out Pelc and his shop of curiosities and these caves where the items have been hidden away."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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Qidira, starting to feel the heat herself, looks over at the wolves trying to sense if they are dealing ok with it. Wondering silently who will care for them when Tulgi is gone. nature 16
Turning back to observe that Tulgi still didn't touch the soup. She waits as listens as the discussion continues, making mental notes of people and places. Then Tulgi hiding quickly amongst the blankets again seeking warmth and maybe the solace that blankets can bring to a saddened soul.
Seeing Kotar looking for the receipt, she gets up to join him in the search, looking for some way in which she can help. investigation 17
Then when the dagger comes into discussion, the little rock gnome returns to the others, "May I? Look at it I mean? I have a knack with things and have studied all my life about histories and how things work. A dagger may seem obvious to everyone, but maybe I've seen this one before in books?" She asks gently, as she always had to do when pretending to be a child in the city. "See, things I'm good at." She quickly places a little rectangular music box, an animated mechanical bird, and a small lighter on the table nearby to demonstrate. Then glances over at Tulgi trying to brighten her spirits a little, she opens the lid to the little music box and cranks the little handle slowly, bringing forth a quick melody of a lullaby not likely heard in this area. history 13
(edited to add investigation roll for search of receipt as Kotar action came up the same time mine did. should not have given a manipulated roll result though - didn't touch the others, its being quirky lately. Nature was around 17 I think, and History was 23 or 21. I'm not sure why they re-rolled. Doesn't usually do that with the type of edit I made.)
@dm
doubled proficiency check per Artificer’s LoreBR, pg. 37 Whenever you make an Intelligence (History) check related to magic items, alchemical objects, or technological devices, you can add twice your proficiency bonus, instead of any proficiency bonus you normally apply.
Ressys watched placidly as Tulgi defied Kotar's scrutiny. When she calmed down he smiles again. "I can assure you that I have no interest in the morality of your actions. That is not my place and is not what we are here for. We are under no orders to investigate what the village may consider theft. Our concern is figuring out what made you sick and can we stop it. Now tell me, who are the Uttolots?"
Brandon shifts his cloak in the oppressive heat. The mention of the other items discovered in Eiselcross both excites him and worries him. They will have to track down all of them to determine which, if any of them or all of them, were tied to this mystery illness. The list of individuals in contact with the items was also continuing to grow. They would have to move fast.
He encourages Tulgi to show the group the dagger, echoing Durnham’s request. “Go ahead, Tulgi, place the dagger in the hand, or on the table if you prefer. Just let us get a better look. I fear the dagger may be the cause of your illness, and letting it go may be the first step to recovery.”
Tulgi takes the dagger from her belt, brings it out from under the covers and looks at it, shock etched on her face. It truly is exquisite, with fine etching across the blade and intricate metalwork throughout. “So, this could be...what kills me?”
@Kotar:
You cannot see a receipt anywhere, or anything else of interest
@Qidira:
The wolves are docile but seem far from fully domesticated. Should the worse happen to Tulgi, you think they could return to the wild and survive. They are also conditioned enough to adopt a new housemate, provided the prospective ‘owner’ was an accomplished handler.
Tulgi places the dagger on the floating ethereal hand, seemingly cowed into compliance by the combination of revelations and spellcasting displays. As the blade hovers over to be nearer to you all, Qidira appraises it with her expertise.
@Qidira:
You recognise the dagger’s style almost instantly, and the name ‘Aeor’ mentioned by Durnham confirms your hunch. Aeor was the floating city of a massively advanced civilisation, who challenged the gods themselves in battle – and nearly won – during the great war known as the Calamity at least 8oo years ago. Eventually defeated in combat by an unlikely coalition of Good and Evil gods, Aeor was flung into Eiselcross where it crashed, killing every Aeorian on board. Explorers, adventurers and state-sponsored expeditions scour Eiselcross to this day, hungry for the potent (and dangerous) treasures scattered across the frozen land.
While Qidira examines the blade – without touching it – Tulgi answers Ressys’s question: “The Uttolots are one of the largest crime families of Shadycreek Run, where me and Hulil grew up. They sent us here to keep an eye out for treasures coming back from Eiselcross”
Seeing Kotar looking around the cabin, Tulgi coughs and says “Whatever you’re looking for it’s probably not here. Anything that I didn’t give to Hulil – apart from that dagger – is still at Pelc’s or Urgon’s”
Turning her attention back to the dagger as it floats in mid-air, she asks Qidira hopefully “What do you see? Is it the dagger that is poisoning us?”
The translucent hand will float over to a table and carefully lay it down before the hand fades away.
“Nobody touch that thing until we can make sure it is safe! Treat it like a venomous serpent that can kill you if you get too close.” Durnham nervously wipes his sweaty hands on his coat. Although his hands shake his voice is firm and his gaze is steady.
”To answer your question, Kotar, no. I do not have the ability to identify magical items at this time. I have studied such magic and am close but not quite able to perform those rituals. Furthermore, even if I knew the spell or ritual, it requires a pearl that I do not possess.”
He wipes the sweat of his brow and glances around the room and at his companions, ”Does anyone have a box or chest we can keep this thing in? A metal box would be best but stone or wood could be helpful, if nothing else a damn sack to put it in?”
He then turns to Qidira and asks softly ”Will you help me with this? Perhaps I can glean some information by examining it closer and you seem to have some skill in this as well.”
Durnham then resummons his spectral hand with the same twisting motion and the word “Mano.” Using the spectral mage hand he again lifts the dagger and peers closely at it. Using the hand to turn it it and examine it from every angle, being absolutely careful not to touch it.
24 Investigation with help from Qidira. I hope my macro was correct.
He will continue to resummon the spectral hand as needed and will whisper with Qidira as they collaborate on the investigation.
Noob
Ressys watches as the dagger is handed over and Qidira and Durnham begin their examination of the weapon.
"Two blue vials? Did you examine them closely or open them? Of all the items listed these would be what I think is causing the problem. It is surely possible any of these items is cursed but my guess is something more natural. Were the vials broken perhaps?"
Looking back at the two wolves. "And what of these two? Do they have names? Is there food around for them to eat? Is there anything I can do to care for them while you are in bed sick? And if the worst should happen what then happens to them?"
Ressys' concern shifts to the two wolves. It is clear to him, at least, there is nothing he can do for Tulgi. If the villages priests could do nothing he didn't feel confident the powers he had would cure Tulgi. He had other abilities but had not prepared them this day. This was not what he was expecting to do today. Perhaps if there was time tomorrow he could prepare better and return.
Qidira eyes the dagger, thankful for Durnham's assistance in moving it about so that she may examine it then almost immediately turns and nods at Durnham. "You are most certainly correct!" Then starts speaking excitedly, "This dagger is from Aeor, the design is unmistakable." She hesitates for a second gesturing at detail on the dagger. "Then resuming quickly. You see, well you likely know, but Aeor was the floating city of a massively advanced civilization, who challenged the gods themselves in battle – and nearly won – during the great war known as the Calamity at least 800 years ago. Eventually when they were defeated in combat by an unlikely coalition of Good and Evil gods, Aeor was flung into Eiselcross where it crashed, killing every Aeorian on board. Explorers, adventurers and state-sponsored expeditions scour Eiselcross to this day, hungry for the potent (and dangerous) treasures scattered across the frozen land. This is one of them! I couldn't tell you of the magic, but the history is incredible! It would be best for me not to touch it as magical items sometimes attune themselves to people, but what a wonderful discovery! I am not familiar with any historical reference to curses or poison related to items from Eiselcross, so I could not be sure in that respect." Speaking to Tulgi on that last and seems to be thinking deeply.
@dm
Is she aware of any curses on items from Eiselcross? New roll?
Hearing Ressys speak with concern over the wolves, she puts them out of her mind, as he'll surely have contacts being more local than she to be sure they are taken care of.
Qidira and Durnham continue to study the dagger from every angle while consulting in the design and materials, but can come to no further conclusion than the fact that it is Aeorian in design and enchanted. They see no sign of poison residue, spores or anything else that suggests the dagger was coated with a lethal substance.
@Qidira:
Qidira is unsure on curses; not familiar with details of items coming back from Eiselcross, only that they do, and are usually highly sought-after. There’s certainly no common tales of curses related to Eiselcross or Aeor.
Tulgi dismisses Ressys’s question about the glass vials “I did not look at them closely, they were probably the least interesting of the articles. But they came from Eiselcross so would likely fetch a good price. They did not seem broken, but as I say – I was a little preoccupied with my efforts to stop and check them. As for those two” she says, turning her attention to the wolves “They’ll be OK. I’ve not smothered them so much as to take away their edge” She looks to you with a glimmer in her eye that belies her true nature, the person who would not be struck down with illness and desperate for a cure; “They’re not too picky about what they eat”
Durnham will also examine the dagger and try to determine if there is any iconography or other indications which might suggest it was ceremonial or religious in nature. 23 Religion check. “Qidira, do you know much about religious use of such items? I wonder if there’s any indication this was used in service to some dark god or something. Tulgi said the balance was good so it seems to be a martial weapon but I wonder...”
He will then turn towards the sickened Dwarf and ask ”Tulgi, did you ever use this dagger on anything or anyone? You didn’t cut yourself with it did you?”
Noob
“I am not sure what the most likely cause would be, Ressys, but I would not dismiss the other items. Weapons especially can have strong magics and curses.” Brandon shrugs “Regardless, I think we need to see for ourselves. I suggest we seek out Hulli and examine the rest of the items before they are sold or moved elsewhere. Our other options include talking with Pelc to see if Urgon told him anything of the items when he sold them and to see if he is ill, and investigating Urgon’s.." here Brandon pauses awkwardly "or Durnham’s cabin to see if there is anything Tulgi missed in her ‘inspection’.”
He pauses and looks around the cabin “We should make Tulgi as comfortable as possible and hope to return with a cure when we find out more. Tulgi, what can we do for you before we leave?”
High in the mountains of Eiselcross, Kotar was able to see wolf, hare and fowl hiding in the snow with their white coats. He was to follow the tracks of a beast despite the strong winds cutting through the land. But there, in a simple hut, he could not see a mere piece of paper. Frustrated, the Fighter waited in silence as the others questioned the thief.
“We’ll need the receipt if we want to explain to Pelc how we know about the items without mentioning your endeavors.” He said to Tulgi, after his fellows got most of their answers from her. “We can say we found the paper on Urdon’s place and go for there.” The last words he directed to his companions. “And I agree with Brandon about meeting Hulli first.”
He was more worried about the Warlock’s words than he would like to admit. As much as he could see reason Ressys’s hypothesis, that it was the blue vials or rather whatever they contained that spread this freezing sickness, he could not ignore the mere chance that any or all of the items brought by the dead dwarf could cause the same affliction. Specially after Qidira’s explanations.
“Just one thing, do we have a way to show Hulli we are not enemies barging in her stash?”
"I do not see anything of a poison or any sort of substance on this dagger, and there is no historical reference of curses or poisons that stands out from anything I've read. As for religious, hmm" religion 19 "I'm not so good with religious items. The dagger is likely not the cause, but we can't rule it out. Tulgi, is there a place here we can secure it. If you want it close to you, perhaps that would be ok, but maybe not on you? Just in case its the cause. Proximity could be bad too, but we want you to be safe as well in case its needed."
Qidira shakes her head to Durnham, "I don't think there is anything more I can discover about the dagger, but I'll help look for the receipt. We should go soon, this disease moves quickly, we need to check the other items to see if they could be a cause. Blue liquid in the vials, you didn't taste it did you? Just handled them?" She thinks quickly. The liquid was inside, and if she hadn't opened it, how would they have anything to do with it? A contact poison would have worn off long ago. "Perhaps, if those are the cause, we should check on Hulil as well soon. If they are ill, it's likely the other items, ruling out the dagger entirely. A map, a jade statuette, quiver and arrows, the ring and the two vials. Anything else at all that you could think of?" She asks, now shifting things around as she looks quickly. investigation 20 "We must have that receipt though, Kotar's right, they'll suspect if we don't have something."
"No Brandon, not dismissed. I also agree if Hulli is also sick that would rule out the dagger. But if Pelc opened the vials before they were stolen he could have released something unknown. Anyone handling them after would have caught it. Urgon may have opened them as well. Too many unknowns at this time."
Turning again to Tulgi. "I assure you I will see to the wolves and their needs if the worst happens. I care for the wild and do not wish to see them harmed by anyone."
Ressys gets back to his feet. "I think Durnham's uncle's cabin should be next. It is getting late. It will provide a place to rest if nothing else is found there and the place seems safe. Tomorrow we can seek out Pelc's and Hulli."
@Durnham:
You don’t discern anything religious in nature based on your . Knowledge of Aeorian society is limited to a small handful of very dedicated academics
Tulgi’s eyes are starting to droop; tiredness is setting in either from her illness or her exertions today – maybe both.
“I didn’t use it, cut anyone – just liked the look of it. I figured it might work as a...retirement pot one day...”
When Kotar presses her about the receipt and asks about avoiding conflict with Hulil, Tulgi sighs “The receipt is still at Urgon’s, didn’t need it...after I memorised it. Hulil and me never agreed a password...just say I sent you, maybe that will work...” As she says this last point, the smallest of smiles appears at the corners of her mouth.
Qidira’s question about the vials confuses Tulgi’s addled mind “Not liquid, blue glass...I think. Didn’t look too closely before...Hulil took them”
At Brandon’s offer of comfort, Tulgi murmers “Just let me rest and... find the cure. Lock door on way out...not in, heh, that order...”
The stricken dwarf’s eyes close and almost immediately her breathing goes deep and slow. The pain seeps from her face, leaving only the ragged bulging blue veins to give sign of anything other than a peacefully slumbering professional thief.
The flame in Ressys' hand goes out.
"It seems we have gotten what we will from Tulgi. Let us depart." Ressys says as he bends down once more to give the two wolves a scratch behind the ears.
Take care of her, and yourselves. Keep her warm he grunts to the wolves in the the language of beasts.
"Qidira, can you lock doors as well as you can unlock them?" He says as he stands one last time and heads out the door.
“Hmm never tried, but shouldn’t be a problem.” stealth 14 “I’ll take care of it.”
(Of course on the way out when they are ready)
After he and Qidira finish examining the dagger, Durnham removes his backpack and uses his mage hand to slide the dagger to the bottom of his pack. He then picks up his spell book and puts it into his pack as well and shuts the pack before securing it closed.
He smiles at Quidira and says ”Thank you for the assistance Quidira. You’re very clever and talented. Come, we must let Tulgi rest and we need to discuss our next course of action. I see several possible paths ahead.” He then motions towards the door and as he makes his way outside he says softly to Tulgi in Dwarven.
”Hold on cousin. We will seek a cure to your illness as quickly as possible but you must hold on and give us time.”
Once everyone is outside he says gravely. “I doubt this dagger is the cause but I cannot be certain. I see four possible destinations for us. My Uncle’s cabin is one, this Hulgi’s cave is another. We also could check on the merchant Pelc who bought the items from my Uncle. We don’t know if they have fallen ill and they had contact with all the items too. Finally, we could go find the priests and see if they can detect a curse or have any other information from the affected to share. I feel we should go to the merchant first as they may be as sick as Tulgi and may have information that my Uncle shared with them.”
He frowns worriedly and continues.
”This whole business makes me nervous. We don’t even know if the objects have to be touched to cause the illness. Simply having them near may be enough.”
Noob
Brandon pulls his cloak back tight against the chill. After the oppressive heat of the cabin it is almost refreshing at first, but quickly turns bone-numbing as the cold takes over.
“You outline the options perfectly, Durnham. I will follow the will of the party, but my own preference is Hulli’s cave. I think it is important to track down the rest of these items and learn more about them before they are spread all over the north. Especially now that we know criminals from Shadycreek Run are involved. The other items may not be recoverable for long and if they are involved with this affliction it could spread quickly. The merchant will still be there and if he is sick there is little we can do for him until we find out more.”
He glances up at the sun to try to place it in the sky, then glances toward Ressys “Ressys makes a good point, if it is getting late, a safe place to rest and prepare for the next day may be wise. Ressys, you travel this area frequently, what do you know of this cave and the areas surrounding it?”
He looks up at a cry from the trees - that cursed Raven is still there, staring at him.
As you leave, the wolves slink out from under the bed and climb on top, snuggling either side of Tulgi.
Once you are all outside, Qidira sets about locking the door; a strange sensation, reversing the steps practiced for years in the other direction.
It is dark now, your time in Tulgi’s cabin having taken close to an hour. The party must decide on their next destination.
(OOC: A great opening, thank you everyone! I’m going to award Inspiration all round for the RP)
Ressys also looks up at the cry from the trees. This was not the first time he noted the presence of the crow. Why do you follow us little one? he thinks to himself. But he is distracted by the question from Brandon.
"Croaker Caves eh? Let me think." (History 1)
"The village itself is on the cold shore of the Frigid Depths, the first surviving Uthodurn outpost beyond the mountains. The settlement is situated against the low cliff boundary of the Crystalsands Tundra, just north of the Flotket Alps. Off the northern cliff, about fifteen feet down to the sand-and-snow beach are docks that hold around a dozen ships, ranging from fishing vessels to small cargo ships. Any number of caves, I am sure, could be found along these cliffs as you venture north, a place for bandits and thieves, or other creatures to hide. The Grassblades stay busy guarding the village from those creatures that wander too close."
Ressys looks to Durnham.
"It is dark, lead us to your uncle's cabin. It is too late in the day to do more than stumble into trouble. Tomorrow we can seek out Pelc and his shop of curiosities and these caves where the items have been hidden away."