Boyd - Toska looks at you dubiously. "Per'aps Lady Isolde or Madam Fortuna migh' be able t' help,"she says with the hint of a shrug. Briefly contemplating Isolde's trick with the strength potions, she pushes the thought of the Carnival Mistress from her mind. "Still Mere'saa an' Niki'ta ain't led us wrong yet. 's up t' them wha' they wanna do wit' the i'ems."
Nikita - Please make an arcana check to attempt to see whether you can discern anything about the nature of the items.
After the rest and no sooner than you mention securing the area, the Tree Knight Captain stands to attention and beckons for its underlings to join it. The Captain clangs its fist against its chest in agreement and points towards the hallway leading deeper into the manor.
Searching your mind, you feel a pang of relief as you are certain that these items are nothing to do with Iuz. You are sure that these items are from the Feywild and likely a collection that someone has brought together over a period of time; odds-and-sods, thing-me-bobs, thingamajiggers, and the whatnot. As such, you get the sense that the items are harmless and more focused on utility than agression.
The colourful stick is a rainstick; a device intended for calling rain, or so it is believed.
A clear vial containing strange sepia-coloured liquid; looks like nothing more than snake oil.
A bunded grey cloak; could be a [Tooltip Not Found] but it looks too plain. It looks and feels like a normal wool cloak and has none of the elegance that would suggest an artisan's hands produced it.
Several children's toys including a little silver whistle; the toys appear to contain little magical properties. However, the whistle does grab your attention. You recall hearing many a wild tale regarding silver whistles that could be blown to call people or to guide others. You are unsure as to the whistle's purpose but are certain that it is magical in some way.
Exasperated by the lack of further insight, you rest the cloak on the floor, spreading it out. No sooner than you do so, you realise that where the cloak was it no longer is. Rather a puddle of the purest rainwater exists (totalling roughly 2 gallons). You don't recall having ever heard of a cloak turning into a puddle before... quite an unusual occurrence.
Nikita methodically sorts the items from the chest as her Unseen Servant holds them, describing to everyone what she finds.
At one point, she speaks aloud to the spirit of Asha Hawkes. "Are these your childhood treasures and belongings, Asha? May we take or at least borrow them if we are to rid your old home of hostile creatures and find you through the portal, assuming you wish us to? We need any help we can find."
The colorful stick, Nikita describes as a "rainstick" and offers it to wild young druid girl. "I think perhaps you are more in tune with nature than any of us, Faila? This stick is intended to allow you to call rain. You may be best to try it next time we need it, perhaps to hide tracks or provide drinking water?" Sensing that Faila is reluctant to take things that are not hers, an admirable trait, Nikita does not force the issue.
The silver whistle among the children's toys she describes as "magical, though I am not sure precisely how. Perhaps to summon or to guide. It may become useful in the feywild, I think?" She looks around to see if anyone would like to take it.
A vial of sepia-colored liquid, Nikita places back into the chest, muttering "placebo," but then is startled and steps back as she lays down the grey cloak and it turns to pure rainwater. Thumbtack lets out a surprised "Hoo oo" but then flaps down to take a drink.
(She still waits to provide help to Meresaa in a potential investigation of the documents, maps and equations.)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
As Nikita sorts the items, Faila hesitantly touches the rainstick she offers, then takes it and holds it up, back and forth, listening to the sound. She smiles. "It only makes the sound of rain. That's all it does." In her large, wide eyes, for a moment seems to dance rainstorms, and then forest fires.
She is completely distracted when the cloak turns to rainwater, however, and immediately crouches down to look closer, trying to poke the owl away with the rainstick before the bird has a chance to touch it.
Nikita - "Yes..."Asha's ethereal voice whispers over the wind. "Items, belongings, collection from the Feywild. Gifts granted by the great Sahmyr, himself. Take all you need." There is a contemplative pause before she continues. "I do wish for you to re-establish the portal between Prospect and the Feywild. I believe I am currently stuck in between planes, not fully existing in either. Re-establishing the connection between planes will free me." Yet another pause ensues. "Though, I will understand if you choose not to."
Thumbtack relays messages to your mind; the water is cool and refreshing.
Faila - Immediately after you turn the rainstick in your hands the pitter-patter of rain can be heard outside. Only moments pass before the pitter-patter turns into a deluge and heavy raindrops pound against what remains of the observatory's windows, any standing too close are instantly drenched.
You prod the owl away using the rainstick. Thumbtack begrudgingly complies, letting out a screech before flapping away.
You stare into the pool of rainwater in front of you, watching your own reflection. The water does not look like pond water but rather the purest, clearest water you have laid your eyes upon.
A nagging thought enters your mind; what if I was to reach into the pool and grab at the bottom? Overwhelmed by that nagging sensation, you grab at the base at the pool and, sure enough, the water re-forms into the grey woolen cloak from before -- albeit marginally smaller. You wonder whether the cloak may protect you from the torrential rain outside.
Faila, staring intently at the pool of clear rainwater, reaches into it and it re-forms into the grey cloak as she picks it up. Puzzled, she straightens up, turning to look at the rain outside. "Maybe I was wrong," she says to Nikita softly. "It's really raining now." She tucks the cloak under one arm and pushes the rainstick into her pack with the other hand.
Nikita smiles in response to Faila. "Both the rainstick and the cloak seem fittingly yours."
Rain Girl... Wild, potentially dangerous (I've seen the claws), yet life-giving... Nikita muses these last bits but does not speak them aloud.
As she waits to helpMeresaa investigate Asha's documents, maps and equations, Nikita tries to respond to the trapped woman's spirit.
"You are stuck between planes! I had not properly understood that. Speaking for myself, I wish to help you. And we need to return these elven spirits in the forms of tree knights along with the Sagacitas back to the Feywild where they belong. But our thought was that we need to then close the portal to prevent further encroachment between the planes. You are saying we need to re-establish the connection to free you? And who... who is Sahmyr?"
Thumbtack, having been poked away from her drink of pure rainwater, repeats "Who!" before beginning to preen her feathers.
To the others she says "I suppose we will have to decide what we can do with the portal when we come to it? Perhaps we need to re-establish the portal in any case it so that our allies can cross over. But first things first, finish with these items and then secure the mansion."
Her Unseen Servant still presents the magical silver whistle (which has some summoning or guiding purpose) for anyone that wants it.
Nikita - "The portal must be re-established..." Asha starts her voice coming as a gust of wind, howling around the observatory. "Destroying the portal might have unintended consequences,"she urges, "better to stabilise it than destroy it."
Once more there is a pause before she continues to answer the question regarding Sahmyr. "A friend, a helper, a guide,"her voice says as though lost in thought. "He helped me to understand,"she struggles for the words. "My dreams and visions. He believed me when no one else did. He was the only..."she stops herself short, deciding to keep the rest to herself. "Alas, he was lost many years ago."
((Nikita - Please make an Intelligence Check))
((Boyd - Please make an Intelligence Check or History if that's better.))
Boyd stays away from the magical items, now that he's freed them from their storage. When Nikita offers him the whistle, he recoils slightly and puts both hands up as if to wave it away. "No thanks..."He murmurs, clearly distrusting the magic.
He speaks into the air, trying to communicate with Asha as well. "Why's this portal open in the first place? And how long has it been here? Ain't these wood elves practically ancient? I mean... if you don't mind answering, I mean... miss." He hastily adds the honorific to placate the wandering spirit.
An image comes to your mind -- a painting hanging on the basement wall. The more you contemplate it the more you feel that it was an unusual place to hang such a picture.
Post 665: Facing the basin, a painting is mounted on the wall. It depicts rolling fields of wheat alongside a cobbled road. A gentleman and a small, red-headed girl traverse the road, hand in hand, they appear happy.
Now that you think more about the image you recall that there was no familial resemblance between the two. The man was well-dressed, of olive skin, and you believe was carrying what could have been a physician's bag. Was this gentleman Sahmyr? It might explain why Asha was not keen to elaborate further.
Searching your mind further, you recall that you have heard the name before.
Post 362:
Sleep is quick coming to those that settle down for the night, likely drained by the revelations of the day. Vivid dreams filled with colour enter the minds of our party; large winding rivers of blues and purples, strange trees unlike any you have ever seen twisted and all shades of green, fields of orange and red. A figure stands and beckons, a smirk on his face, he has the legs and horns of a goat, yet his body is a man's. A hushed voice enters your mind then. "SAHMYR AMI", it whispers. You hear laughter then, it is loud and joyous, the man turns to you. His facade shifts and changes, leaving a man covered head-to-toe in tattoos. Those that met him know instantly who he is - The Illuminated Man.
Certainly, the man from your own dream did not look like the gentleman from the picture. You remain perplexed as to how everything is connected.
Nikita - The whistle sounds as you blow through it. ((Is there a location/place that Nikita desires to be or to find?))
Boyd's Intelligence Check:
Memories of your night-time visit to the Weekly Wail printing press come to mind. You cannot quite explain it but Asha's reference to dreams and visions nags at you.
Taken from your trip to the Weekly Wail:
Something seemingly piques your interest as you wade through numerous, quite standard, newspaper articles. Some twenty plus years ago you come across an article written about the Hawkes family. It mentions Asha and lists her as being a 'problem child' after she claimed to be plagued with visions of fantastical places. It references her being interned in the Temple of Procan for a number of months for her own good.
Your mind attempts to contemplate the possibilities. Was Asha sectioned? Unfortunately, you do not quite recall whether a Dr Sahmyr was referenced but are aware that the family was seeking all sorts of treatments for their daughter.
Boyd - You speak your questions to Asha out loud. There is a pause before you receive your answer. "Ancient -- ever has the connection with the Feywild existed. Well, as far as I am aware. I cannot describe it but I have always been aware of the link between the two places -- Prospect and the Feyrealm. I could see into the other world and it was beautiful. I received gifts and items which came from the place and I knew I had to experience it for myself."
Her voice seems dreamy now and she continues monologuing. "Try as I could, it seemed like getting to the Feyrealm was out of reach. I could not explain it but it was almost as though something was blocking my progress, preventing me from accessing that which I desired most." At this, the Tree Knight Captain smacks its chest twice, Asha ignores the interruption. "I managed to create a device. It was able to pierce through the fog and allow me to travel to the Feyrealm."
Something in your mind recalls Madam Fortuna's words ((Post 310));“An artefact… Tall it stands, swirling around. Always in balance until it is not. Faltering and stuttering it shall collapse in time. Though created the artefact reveals that which is natural. A caged bird sits next to it, chirping away it wears a red-hood."
"The painting in the basement of the red-haired girl - I think that is you, Asha - and the olive-skinned physician? Was that Sahmyr? He looks nothing like the satyr in what I assume was the Feywild who I and I think my companions saw in my trance and their dreams the night we stayed with the Skurra at the carnival. The one who uttered his name as Sahmyr. Or he said 'Sahmyr Ami'? And then turned into a tattooed man who..."
She turns, alarmed as the tree knight strikes his chest twice. "Wait, what is the matter?" she asks in Elvish before cursing herself, realizing that she needs to ask yes/no questions. "Was something that this spirit's voice, Asha Hawkes, said untrue? About the portal?"
As for the whistle, Nikita's mind is a jumble of emotions. Her primary concerns are the portal, getting the tree knights and Sagacitas back where they belong, and freeing Asha. But with all the talk of everyone needing to go home, party of her mind lingers in the forests of her childhood home in Celene.
Nikita - Please make a Persuasion check to discern how much Asha will divulge about Sahmyr and her relationship with him.
Nikita - The Tree Knight Captain's wooden head looks around as though surveying the area, ensuring that the owner of the voice is not around. It strikes at its chest a single time. It points at a section of roots growing on a nearby rug. The roots swirl and grow, creating a mass you would surmise is an approximation of the portal. Pointing at multiple locations around the portal, small saplings grow wherever he points, and each grows a single flower in its own colour.
The first is a bright yellow; it grows abundant and strong
The second is a deep blue; it waves though there is no breeze
The third is a dark purple; though it looks beautiful, it smells like bog water
The fourth is emerald green; it gives off the odour of pinecones
The fifth is a fiery red; it is warm to the touch
The sixth is a frosty pale blue; it is cold to the touch
Finally, the seventh is as black as onyx; it grows twisted and the stem is covered with thorns
The plants continue to grow, reaching out towards the mass that represents the portal. After a few minutes, you notice that they block out and cover the faux portal, obscuring it from view; small roots connect forming a circle between each plant. Pausing and turning to you, the Captain appears to be checking whether you comprehend its meaning. It then proceeds to point upwards and around, you understand it to be referring to Asha. Before you can say anything, the Captain aggressively tears the plants from the ground throwing them around the room, little regard given to where they land. You notice that the mass representing the portal is no longer obscured... but more than that, it appears to be growing, consuming all growth around it.
Standing up, its chest sticking out, it points at you and the rest of the party. It then goes around collecting the plants from the first to the seventh, in order. Gently caressing the ground where they were torn so violently moments before, the Captain returns each plant to its rightful place. You note that the mass once more shrinks and the plants grow and smother the portal.
You get the sense that whatever the Tree Knight Captain is trying to tell you it perceives to be incredibly important. Though it does not seem to bear Asha any deep malice, it is clear that something she has done has had unintended effects.
Nikita'sPersuasion to coax Asha to divulge more about what was going on between her and Sahmyr: 14
She tries to follow what the Tree Knight Captain is demonstrating... she repeats (in Common and in Elvish):
"So the portal becomes obscured naturally by multiple natural... forces(?) from the Feywild, reaching an equilibrium. Asha, in her desire to clear the obstruction was indiscriminate in removing and scattering these forces, causing the portal to grow in an uncontrolled way, consuming all around it. With the natural fey forces restored, equilibrium returns. But is there a safer, more controlled way to remove the obstruction to the portal? I had thought we must temporarily have the portal open to restore you (she indicates the knights and the Sagacitas) back to your homes. And to rescue Asha."
Nikita - The Tree Knight Captain seems largely pleased with your deductions; eagerly beating at its chest when you hit upon the truth ((as such you feel inspired - I have marked inspiration in your character sheet!)).
"So the portal becomes obscured naturally by multiple natural... forces(?) from the Feywild, reaching an equilibrium."
The Tree Knight Captain strikes its chest twice, signalling 'no'. It points at the assorted items that were taken from Asha's chest; you get the sense that the forces are items/artefacts (the items he points to are not the artefacts sought). After further questioning on the topic, it would appear as though a barrier was created comprising seven of these artefacts, this barrier served as a shield which protected Oerth from Feywild incursions. The barrier, the Tree Knight confirms, was created by the Old Aerdy Great Kingdom and their Feyrealm allies.
"Asha, in her desire to clear the obstruction was indiscriminate in removing and scattering these forces, causing the portal to grow in an uncontrolled way, consuming all around it."
The Tree Knight Captain excited beats at its chest. It would seem that it is unaware of how Asha was able to accomplish such a thing but is certain that her actions have somehow removed, destroyed or eroded the barrier.
When you mention the portal growing uncontrolled, it points around to the wild Feyrealm growth prevalent within Prospect. Moving its hands outwards, it depicts the expansion of this phenomenon, leaving you no doubt that, unchecked, the Feyrealm's influence would continue to grow around the Saltmarsh area with Prospect at its epicentre.
"With the natural fey forces restored, equilibrium returns."
The Tree Knight Captain confirms that with the re-establishment of the barrier the portal would become more manageable. It would seem that the artefacts require replacing at certain locations around Saltmarsh Area (though the locations and what these artefacts are, the Captain does not know).
"But is there a safer, more controlled way to remove the obstruction to the portal? I had thought we must temporarily have the portal open to restore you (she indicates the knights and the Sagacitas) back to your homes. And to rescue Asha."
After several minutes of back and forth between yourself and the Captain, you are able to discern the following points (though the Captain is a little hazy on the exacting details);
The portal in its current state is becoming increasingly unstable. The Captain knows this due to the fact that much of the Feyrealm's characteristics are leaking through and affecting the local area.
Attempting to destroy the portal would certainly expedite its deterioration and lead to an increase and potentially an irreparable wound between planes.
The Captain agrees that the Tree Knights should be returned to the Feyrealm and Asha rescued. However, this will not deal with the larger issue (the 'time bomb' that is the deterioration of the portal).
You are aware that there were many ancient allies to be found within the Feyrealm. However, not all are benevolent... there are those that come from the Feydark.
The Tree Knight, due to the ever-changing nature of the Feyrealm, is unsure whether the portal leads to one location or many. Having no idea as to the nature of the Hawkes' Device (Asha's creation), it is unaware of how controlled a journey it would be, should the portal be traversed.
Asha's Response
Nikita - You question Asha further regarding her relationship with the one known as Sahmyr Ami.
"The painting in the basement of the red-haired girl - I think that is you, Asha - and the olive-skinned physician?"
A gust of wind blows past your face, you could almost swear you heard a woman's gasp carried upon it. "That painting!" Asha exclaims, "you are correct. It was what I could remember," there is happiness in her voice, "of our great journeys. Oh, we would visit all manner of places in my dreams. He would appear in many forms, Sahmyr. Of course, when I met that doctor I knew instantly! My parents thought that they were curing me." A pang of bitter disdain momentarily enters her voice. "The irony is that they had reunited me with my greatest friend."
"You met Sahmyr!" Asha is almost giddy with excitement as you describe your encounter with the Satyr. "I think he presented himself as the olive-skinned man to avoid suspicion. But... if you have seen his true form? Why then have you also experienced a glimpse of what lies beyond?"
"Sahmyr Ami... I always assumed it was the last name or a title. I have no idea what or who this tattooed man is."
"The items you just found were gifts... momentos that he brought back from his journeys. The whistle," you notice it glowing in your hand. You watch as a small beacon of light emerges from the whistle and hovers northwards, towards Celene. "Why, it can show you the path to the location your heart desires most. Later in life, it was how I found the site I should build my device -- a location where the veil between planes was the thinnest. I so desperately wanted to go to the place I saw in my dreams!"
"As for the cloak, no rain can penetrate it," she says, chuckling, her voice becoming more childlike. "Such wonderful gifts! I am glad that Sahmyr revealed himself to you, perhaps one day we might all meet face to face!"
Faila, still holding the cloak, listens entranced to Asha's stories of Sahmyr Ami. Inadvertantly, she seems to stand straighter, a smile spreading across her face. Faila has traveled far from her home, alone and pursued, and the story of a guide and a protector in dreams through perilous journeys seems to appeal greatly to the scrawny urchin, as if she is imagining this could turn a wandering into a child's dream of magic and discovery, instead of a terror. She remembers chasing the laughing figure in her dream with teeth and claws, and feels a great sorrow for the child that became a beast. Tears spring to her eyes.
Boyd looks doubtful at the spirit's story, and makes an uncharacteristic decision to test the whistle. He knows that his heart's desire is far from here, and nowhere near the portal. He requests the whistle from Nikita and toot-toots the small silver instrument. He half expects it to direct him toward the Feywild, regardless.
After testing the whistle, Boyd laments the impossibility of their quest. "How are we going to find these seven rainbow things? Do we even know where to start looking? Shouldn't we just... you know..." He raises his eyebrows conspiratorially and pantomimes smashing a device. He looks around, hoping that Asha can't see.
NikitaArcana: 17 NikitaPerception: 7 ThumbtackPerception (+3 at advantage? Rolled on character sheet with advantage as Animal Handling which Nikita has a +3 for): 23 (natural 20)
Faila - Unsure what to make of your tears, Toska shifts uncomfortably on the spot. "I don' like all this magic stuff or talk-a planes neither," she grunts quietly at you. "Ain't gotta hide no tears 'round me, I seen 'ow yer fight... impressive." You get the sense that, though she is completely oblivious as to the reasons for your tears, she is attempting to comfort you awkwardly.
Boyd - You blow the whistle and, similarly to before, a tiny mote of light emerges. This mote would start travelling in the direction of the location your heart desires most; the only exception is if the site is on another plane of existence. However, if you are seeking the artefacts to repair the barrier around the portal then the whistle would lead you towards the Feywild/portal.
As you look around the party you notice something strange about Ermasnietsz. The colourful tattoo decorating her neck has changed and shifted. A swirling pattern of deep blue hues has replaced the imp that was there. The image zooms out, becoming an iris, and then a face. A red-haired woman stares blankly out at you, she looks lost and alone, all around her the scenery is blurred and out of focus -- like a paint palette that has been smeared. Only the woman remains in focus.
You experience a sudden epiphany. Searching your knowledge pertaining to the Feyrealm you recall the number 7 has meaning.
7 is the number of Fey factions -- perhaps the required artefacts represent each of these factions. You believe it would make sense from a magical perspective; each faction assisting and aiding in the barrier between planes.
Wracking your mind you attempt to discern whether the various colours could represent the various factions. You recall the factions are as follows;
The Court of Stars
The Court of Coral
The Gloaming Fey
The Green Fey
The Summer Fey
The Winter Fey
The Unseelie Fey
It dawns on you that the Tree Knight Captain was hinting at this the only way it could -- through the growth, smell, and look of the flowers. You shiver a little when contemplating the Unseelie Fey, for such creatures that comprise this faction are evil, malicious, and corrupted.
Images come streaming into your mind from Thumbtack. It appears as though the colourful tattoo decorating Ermasnietsz's neck is changing and shifting. A swirling pattern of deep blue hues has replaced the imp that was there. The image zooms out, becoming an iris, and then a face. A red-haired woman stares blankly out at you, she looks lost and alone, all around her the scenery is blurred and out of focus -- like a paint palette that has been smeared. Only the woman remains in focus.
It strikes you then that you have seen this individual before, in this house. The painting from the lounge (post #629) is the spitting image of the tattoo. You have little doubt in your mind that you are currently seeing Asha... or rather a depiction of Asha.
As you look around the party you notice something strange about Ermasnietsz. The colourful tattoo decorating her neck has changed and shifted. A swirling pattern of deep blue hues has replaced the imp that was there. The image zooms out, becoming an iris, and then a face. A red-haired woman stares blankly out at you, she looks lost and alone, all around her the scenery is blurred and out of focus -- like a paint palette that has been smeared. Only the woman remains in focus.
Based on the description, you are convinced that this is likely a depiction of Asha. Though, you are unsure whether the depiction is realistic or just an approximation of what she might look like.
Boyd - Toska looks at you dubiously. "Per'aps Lady Isolde or Madam Fortuna migh' be able t' help," she says with the hint of a shrug. Briefly contemplating Isolde's trick with the strength potions, she pushes the thought of the Carnival Mistress from her mind. "Still Mere'saa an' Niki'ta ain't led us wrong yet. 's up t' them wha' they wanna do wit' the i'ems."
Nikita - Please make an arcana check to attempt to see whether you can discern anything about the nature of the items.
After the rest and no sooner than you mention securing the area, the Tree Knight Captain stands to attention and beckons for its underlings to join it. The Captain clangs its fist against its chest in agreement and points towards the hallway leading deeper into the manor.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Nikita Arcana to discern nature of items from chest: 21
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Nikita's Arcana check:
Searching your mind, you feel a pang of relief as you are certain that these items are nothing to do with Iuz. You are sure that these items are from the Feywild and likely a collection that someone has brought together over a period of time; odds-and-sods, thing-me-bobs, thingamajiggers, and the whatnot. As such, you get the sense that the items are harmless and more focused on utility than agression.
Exasperated by the lack of further insight, you rest the cloak on the floor, spreading it out. No sooner than you do so, you realise that where the cloak was it no longer is. Rather a puddle of the purest rainwater exists (totalling roughly 2 gallons). You don't recall having ever heard of a cloak turning into a puddle before... quite an unusual occurrence.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Nikita methodically sorts the items from the chest as her Unseen Servant holds them, describing to everyone what she finds.
At one point, she speaks aloud to the spirit of Asha Hawkes. "Are these your childhood treasures and belongings, Asha? May we take or at least borrow them if we are to rid your old home of hostile creatures and find you through the portal, assuming you wish us to? We need any help we can find."
The colorful stick, Nikita describes as a "rainstick" and offers it to wild young druid girl. "I think perhaps you are more in tune with nature than any of us, Faila? This stick is intended to allow you to call rain. You may be best to try it next time we need it, perhaps to hide tracks or provide drinking water?" Sensing that Faila is reluctant to take things that are not hers, an admirable trait, Nikita does not force the issue.
The silver whistle among the children's toys she describes as "magical, though I am not sure precisely how. Perhaps to summon or to guide. It may become useful in the feywild, I think?" She looks around to see if anyone would like to take it.
A vial of sepia-colored liquid, Nikita places back into the chest, muttering "placebo," but then is startled and steps back as she lays down the grey cloak and it turns to pure rainwater. Thumbtack lets out a surprised "Hoo oo" but then flaps down to take a drink.
(She still waits to provide help to Meresaa in a potential investigation of the documents, maps and equations.)
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
As Nikita sorts the items, Faila hesitantly touches the rainstick she offers, then takes it and holds it up, back and forth, listening to the sound. She smiles. "It only makes the sound of rain. That's all it does." In her large, wide eyes, for a moment seems to dance rainstorms, and then forest fires.
She is completely distracted when the cloak turns to rainwater, however, and immediately crouches down to look closer, trying to poke the owl away with the rainstick before the bird has a chance to touch it.
Investigation: 11
Arcana: 1
Nikita - "Yes..." Asha's ethereal voice whispers over the wind. "Items, belongings, collection from the Feywild. Gifts granted by the great Sahmyr, himself. Take all you need." There is a contemplative pause before she continues. "I do wish for you to re-establish the portal between Prospect and the Feywild. I believe I am currently stuck in between planes, not fully existing in either. Re-establishing the connection between planes will free me." Yet another pause ensues. "Though, I will understand if you choose not to."
Thumbtack relays messages to your mind; the water is cool and refreshing.
Faila - Immediately after you turn the rainstick in your hands the pitter-patter of rain can be heard outside. Only moments pass before the pitter-patter turns into a deluge and heavy raindrops pound against what remains of the observatory's windows, any standing too close are instantly drenched.
Faila's Arcana check:
You prod the owl away using the rainstick. Thumbtack begrudgingly complies, letting out a screech before flapping away.
You stare into the pool of rainwater in front of you, watching your own reflection. The water does not look like pond water but rather the purest, clearest water you have laid your eyes upon.
A nagging thought enters your mind; what if I was to reach into the pool and grab at the bottom? Overwhelmed by that nagging sensation, you grab at the base at the pool and, sure enough, the water re-forms into the grey woolen cloak from before -- albeit marginally smaller. You wonder whether the cloak may protect you from the torrential rain outside.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Faila, staring intently at the pool of clear rainwater, reaches into it and it re-forms into the grey cloak as she picks it up. Puzzled, she straightens up, turning to look at the rain outside. "Maybe I was wrong," she says to Nikita softly. "It's really raining now." She tucks the cloak under one arm and pushes the rainstick into her pack with the other hand.
Nikita smiles in response to Faila. "Both the rainstick and the cloak seem fittingly yours."
Rain Girl... Wild, potentially dangerous (I've seen the claws), yet life-giving... Nikita muses these last bits but does not speak them aloud.
As she waits to help Meresaa investigate Asha's documents, maps and equations, Nikita tries to respond to the trapped woman's spirit.
"You are stuck between planes! I had not properly understood that. Speaking for myself, I wish to help you. And we need to return these elven spirits in the forms of tree knights along with the Sagacitas back to the Feywild where they belong. But our thought was that we need to then close the portal to prevent further encroachment between the planes. You are saying we need to re-establish the connection to free you? And who... who is Sahmyr?"
Thumbtack, having been poked away from her drink of pure rainwater, repeats "Who!" before beginning to preen her feathers.
To the others she says "I suppose we will have to decide what we can do with the portal when we come to it? Perhaps we need to re-establish the portal in any case it so that our allies can cross over. But first things first, finish with these items and then secure the mansion."
Her Unseen Servant still presents the magical silver whistle (which has some summoning or guiding purpose) for anyone that wants it.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Nikita - "The portal must be re-established..." Asha starts her voice coming as a gust of wind, howling around the observatory. "Destroying the portal might have unintended consequences," she urges, "better to stabilise it than destroy it."
Once more there is a pause before she continues to answer the question regarding Sahmyr. "A friend, a helper, a guide," her voice says as though lost in thought. "He helped me to understand," she struggles for the words. "My dreams and visions. He believed me when no one else did. He was the only..." she stops herself short, deciding to keep the rest to herself. "Alas, he was lost many years ago."
((Nikita - Please make an Intelligence Check))
((Boyd - Please make an Intelligence Check or History if that's better.))
All - Does anyone test the silver whistle?
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Nikita straight INT check: 12
If no one else tests the silver whistle, she will herself.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Boyd stays away from the magical items, now that he's freed them from their storage. When Nikita offers him the whistle, he recoils slightly and puts both hands up as if to wave it away. "No thanks..." He murmurs, clearly distrusting the magic.
He speaks into the air, trying to communicate with Asha as well. "Why's this portal open in the first place? And how long has it been here? Ain't these wood elves practically ancient? I mean... if you don't mind answering, I mean... miss." He hastily adds the honorific to placate the wandering spirit.
Int: 8
Nikita's Intelligence Check:
An image comes to your mind -- a painting hanging on the basement wall. The more you contemplate it the more you feel that it was an unusual place to hang such a picture.
Now that you think more about the image you recall that there was no familial resemblance between the two. The man was well-dressed, of olive skin, and you believe was carrying what could have been a physician's bag. Was this gentleman Sahmyr? It might explain why Asha was not keen to elaborate further.
Searching your mind further, you recall that you have heard the name before.
Certainly, the man from your own dream did not look like the gentleman from the picture. You remain perplexed as to how everything is connected.
Nikita - The whistle sounds as you blow through it. ((Is there a location/place that Nikita desires to be or to find?))
Boyd's Intelligence Check:
Memories of your night-time visit to the Weekly Wail printing press come to mind. You cannot quite explain it but Asha's reference to dreams and visions nags at you.
Your mind attempts to contemplate the possibilities. Was Asha sectioned? Unfortunately, you do not quite recall whether a Dr Sahmyr was referenced but are aware that the family was seeking all sorts of treatments for their daughter.
Boyd - You speak your questions to Asha out loud. There is a pause before you receive your answer. "Ancient -- ever has the connection with the Feywild existed. Well, as far as I am aware. I cannot describe it but I have always been aware of the link between the two places -- Prospect and the Feyrealm. I could see into the other world and it was beautiful. I received gifts and items which came from the place and I knew I had to experience it for myself."
Her voice seems dreamy now and she continues monologuing. "Try as I could, it seemed like getting to the Feyrealm was out of reach. I could not explain it but it was almost as though something was blocking my progress, preventing me from accessing that which I desired most." At this, the Tree Knight Captain smacks its chest twice, Asha ignores the interruption. "I managed to create a device. It was able to pierce through the fog and allow me to travel to the Feyrealm."
Something in your mind recalls Madam Fortuna's words ((Post 310)); “An artefact… Tall it stands, swirling around. Always in balance until it is not. Faltering and stuttering it shall collapse in time. Though created the artefact reveals that which is natural. A caged bird sits next to it, chirping away it wears a red-hood."
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Nikita struggles to make the connection.
"The painting in the basement of the red-haired girl - I think that is you, Asha - and the olive-skinned physician? Was that Sahmyr? He looks nothing like the satyr in what I assume was the Feywild who I and I think my companions saw in my trance and their dreams the night we stayed with the Skurra at the carnival. The one who uttered his name as Sahmyr. Or he said 'Sahmyr Ami'? And then turned into a tattooed man who..."
She turns, alarmed as the tree knight strikes his chest twice. "Wait, what is the matter?" she asks in Elvish before cursing herself, realizing that she needs to ask yes/no questions. "Was something that this spirit's voice, Asha Hawkes, said untrue? About the portal?"
Insight: 15
As for the whistle, Nikita's mind is a jumble of emotions. Her primary concerns are the portal, getting the tree knights and Sagacitas back where they belong, and freeing Asha. But with all the talk of everyone needing to go home, party of her mind lingers in the forests of her childhood home in Celene.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Nikita - Please make a Persuasion check to discern how much Asha will divulge about Sahmyr and her relationship with him.
Nikita - The Tree Knight Captain's wooden head looks around as though surveying the area, ensuring that the owner of the voice is not around. It strikes at its chest a single time. It points at a section of roots growing on a nearby rug. The roots swirl and grow, creating a mass you would surmise is an approximation of the portal. Pointing at multiple locations around the portal, small saplings grow wherever he points, and each grows a single flower in its own colour.
The plants continue to grow, reaching out towards the mass that represents the portal. After a few minutes, you notice that they block out and cover the faux portal, obscuring it from view; small roots connect forming a circle between each plant. Pausing and turning to you, the Captain appears to be checking whether you comprehend its meaning. It then proceeds to point upwards and around, you understand it to be referring to Asha. Before you can say anything, the Captain aggressively tears the plants from the ground throwing them around the room, little regard given to where they land. You notice that the mass representing the portal is no longer obscured... but more than that, it appears to be growing, consuming all growth around it.
Standing up, its chest sticking out, it points at you and the rest of the party. It then goes around collecting the plants from the first to the seventh, in order. Gently caressing the ground where they were torn so violently moments before, the Captain returns each plant to its rightful place. You note that the mass once more shrinks and the plants grow and smother the portal.
Nikita's Insight check:
You get the sense that whatever the Tree Knight Captain is trying to tell you it perceives to be incredibly important. Though it does not seem to bear Asha any deep malice, it is clear that something she has done has had unintended effects.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Nikita's Persuasion to coax Asha to divulge more about what was going on between her and Sahmyr: 14
She tries to follow what the Tree Knight Captain is demonstrating... she repeats (in Common and in Elvish):
"So the portal becomes obscured naturally by multiple natural... forces(?) from the Feywild, reaching an equilibrium. Asha, in her desire to clear the obstruction was indiscriminate in removing and scattering these forces, causing the portal to grow in an uncontrolled way, consuming all around it. With the natural fey forces restored, equilibrium returns. But is there a safer, more controlled way to remove the obstruction to the portal? I had thought we must temporarily have the portal open to restore you (she indicates the knights and the Sagacitas) back to your homes. And to rescue Asha."
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Tree Knight Conversation
Nikita - The Tree Knight Captain seems largely pleased with your deductions; eagerly beating at its chest when you hit upon the truth ((as such you feel inspired - I have marked inspiration in your character sheet!)).
The Tree Knight Captain strikes its chest twice, signalling 'no'. It points at the assorted items that were taken from Asha's chest; you get the sense that the forces are items/artefacts (the items he points to are not the artefacts sought). After further questioning on the topic, it would appear as though a barrier was created comprising seven of these artefacts, this barrier served as a shield which protected Oerth from Feywild incursions. The barrier, the Tree Knight confirms, was created by the Old Aerdy Great Kingdom and their Feyrealm allies.
The Tree Knight Captain excited beats at its chest. It would seem that it is unaware of how Asha was able to accomplish such a thing but is certain that her actions have somehow removed, destroyed or eroded the barrier.
When you mention the portal growing uncontrolled, it points around to the wild Feyrealm growth prevalent within Prospect. Moving its hands outwards, it depicts the expansion of this phenomenon, leaving you no doubt that, unchecked, the Feyrealm's influence would continue to grow around the Saltmarsh area with Prospect at its epicentre.
The Tree Knight Captain confirms that with the re-establishment of the barrier the portal would become more manageable. It would seem that the artefacts require replacing at certain locations around Saltmarsh Area (though the locations and what these artefacts are, the Captain does not know).
((Nikita - Please make an Arcana check))
After several minutes of back and forth between yourself and the Captain, you are able to discern the following points (though the Captain is a little hazy on the exacting details);
Asha's Response
Nikita - You question Asha further regarding her relationship with the one known as Sahmyr Ami.
A gust of wind blows past your face, you could almost swear you heard a woman's gasp carried upon it. "That painting!" Asha exclaims, "you are correct. It was what I could remember," there is happiness in her voice, "of our great journeys. Oh, we would visit all manner of places in my dreams. He would appear in many forms, Sahmyr. Of course, when I met that doctor I knew instantly! My parents thought that they were curing me." A pang of bitter disdain momentarily enters her voice. "The irony is that they had reunited me with my greatest friend."
"You met Sahmyr!" Asha is almost giddy with excitement as you describe your encounter with the Satyr. "I think he presented himself as the olive-skinned man to avoid suspicion. But... if you have seen his true form? Why then have you also experienced a glimpse of what lies beyond?"
"Sahmyr Ami... I always assumed it was the last name or a title. I have no idea what or who this tattooed man is."
((All - Please make Perception checks))
"The items you just found were gifts... momentos that he brought back from his journeys. The whistle," you notice it glowing in your hand. You watch as a small beacon of light emerges from the whistle and hovers northwards, towards Celene. "Why, it can show you the path to the location your heart desires most. Later in life, it was how I found the site I should build my device -- a location where the veil between planes was the thinnest. I so desperately wanted to go to the place I saw in my dreams!"
"As for the cloak, no rain can penetrate it," she says, chuckling, her voice becoming more childlike. "Such wonderful gifts! I am glad that Sahmyr revealed himself to you, perhaps one day we might all meet face to face!"
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Faila, still holding the cloak, listens entranced to Asha's stories of Sahmyr Ami. Inadvertantly, she seems to stand straighter, a smile spreading across her face. Faila has traveled far from her home, alone and pursued, and the story of a guide and a protector in dreams through perilous journeys seems to appeal greatly to the scrawny urchin, as if she is imagining this could turn a wandering into a child's dream of magic and discovery, instead of a terror. She remembers chasing the laughing figure in her dream with teeth and claws, and feels a great sorrow for the child that became a beast. Tears spring to her eyes.
Perception: 16 (rolled in game log)
Boyd looks doubtful at the spirit's story, and makes an uncharacteristic decision to test the whistle. He knows that his heart's desire is far from here, and nowhere near the portal. He requests the whistle from Nikita and toot-toots the small silver instrument. He half expects it to direct him toward the Feywild, regardless.
After testing the whistle, Boyd laments the impossibility of their quest. "How are we going to find these seven rainbow things? Do we even know where to start looking? Shouldn't we just... you know..." He raises his eyebrows conspiratorially and pantomimes smashing a device. He looks around, hoping that Asha can't see.
Nikita Arcana: 17
Nikita Perception: 7
Thumbtack Perception (+3 at advantage? Rolled on character sheet with advantage as Animal Handling which Nikita has a +3 for): 23 (natural 20)
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Faila - Unsure what to make of your tears, Toska shifts uncomfortably on the spot. "I don' like all this magic stuff or talk-a planes neither," she grunts quietly at you. "Ain't gotta hide no tears 'round me, I seen 'ow yer fight... impressive." You get the sense that, though she is completely oblivious as to the reasons for your tears, she is attempting to comfort you awkwardly.
Boyd - You blow the whistle and, similarly to before, a tiny mote of light emerges. This mote would start travelling in the direction of the location your heart desires most; the only exception is if the site is on another plane of existence. However, if you are seeking the artefacts to repair the barrier around the portal then the whistle would lead you towards the Feywild/portal.
Boyd's Perception check:
As you look around the party you notice something strange about Ermasnietsz. The colourful tattoo decorating her neck has changed and shifted. A swirling pattern of deep blue hues has replaced the imp that was there. The image zooms out, becoming an iris, and then a face. A red-haired woman stares blankly out at you, she looks lost and alone, all around her the scenery is blurred and out of focus -- like a paint palette that has been smeared. Only the woman remains in focus.
Nikita's Arcana check:
You experience a sudden epiphany. Searching your knowledge pertaining to the Feyrealm you recall the number 7 has meaning.
7 is the number of Fey factions -- perhaps the required artefacts represent each of these factions. You believe it would make sense from a magical perspective; each faction assisting and aiding in the barrier between planes.
Wracking your mind you attempt to discern whether the various colours could represent the various factions. You recall the factions are as follows;
It dawns on you that the Tree Knight Captain was hinting at this the only way it could -- through the growth, smell, and look of the flowers. You shiver a little when contemplating the Unseelie Fey, for such creatures that comprise this faction are evil, malicious, and corrupted.
Nikita/Thumbtack's Perception check:
Images come streaming into your mind from Thumbtack. It appears as though the colourful tattoo decorating Ermasnietsz's neck is changing and shifting. A swirling pattern of deep blue hues has replaced the imp that was there. The image zooms out, becoming an iris, and then a face. A red-haired woman stares blankly out at you, she looks lost and alone, all around her the scenery is blurred and out of focus -- like a paint palette that has been smeared. Only the woman remains in focus.
It strikes you then that you have seen this individual before, in this house. The painting from the lounge (post #629) is the spitting image of the tattoo. You have little doubt in your mind that you are currently seeing Asha... or rather a depiction of Asha.
Faila's Perception check:
As you look around the party you notice something strange about Ermasnietsz. The colourful tattoo decorating her neck has changed and shifted. A swirling pattern of deep blue hues has replaced the imp that was there. The image zooms out, becoming an iris, and then a face. A red-haired woman stares blankly out at you, she looks lost and alone, all around her the scenery is blurred and out of focus -- like a paint palette that has been smeared. Only the woman remains in focus.
Based on the description, you are convinced that this is likely a depiction of Asha. Though, you are unsure whether the depiction is realistic or just an approximation of what she might look like.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)