Yeshil glances again at Jararaka and shrugs. "Simple enough?" she repeats, but in her mind she breaths a sigh of relief. Previous thoughts of possibly having to sacrifice an organ or personality trait quickly dissipate. Perhaps she isn't that kind of old lady...
If Jararaka is also in agreement on this quest, then Yeshil will take the liberty of replying. Still maintaining the youthful air of bravado, she cocks her hip to one side and casually inspects her fingernails while drawling:
Well... I can't speak for the others, but... assuming they agree... then yeah, sure! So who is this chick? She got a name? Human? Rich kid is she? She your what - great-great-grandkid? What's she look like? And what's she doing with the Dragon Cult? Are we gonna have to drag her out, or is there something that would make her wanna come willingly?
Then almost as an afterthought she adds:
Is this got something to do with that mess of yours with the Vanthampurs and all that?
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Jararaka blinks a few times after the crone states the job, waiting for her to add some sort of impossible request. She eventually realises that that was all the old lady's offering up for now, and shrugs, confirming what Yeshil mentions about having to ask the others first. "First time snatching a person but fair enough... and we get to access to the library forever? Is this woman the librarian?"
"Any reason you can't send your people or the guards to fetch this woman?" Jararaka asks as she glances outside a window in the direction of the streets and guardsmen. "How did she end up with them anyway? You don't seem to be a fan of the cult."
Suddenly remembering, she adds, "if we are doing this, how should we refer to you? I'm Jararaka."
The elderly woman shakes her head. "I am not asking to hire the rest of your little war band. I am making this offer to the two of you. You do not require their consent, for they shall not be a party to our agreement."
She draws forth a small, straight piece of metal, something like a long sewing needle. "You must understand... Much is riding on this matter. While I would love to be able to accept a simple verbal agreement, I will need more security than that. Should the two of you accept, you will need to enter into a more... binding... agreement with me. You will have to submit to a magical compulsion spell. A geas. It won't alter your personality or directly control your actions, but you will be made to be mindful - at all times - of the terms of our agreement. And any attempt to break those terms... such as doing harm to or killing the girl, or abandoning your obligations to return her to me... I will immediately be made aware of the act. Also, there may be some psychic discomfort on your end."
She looks at you both, level and coolly. "I can't engage the guards as this matter requires urgency and privacy... neither of which are things I can find or expect from local sources. The two of you, however... even if you did break my geas and betray my confidence - who are you? No one in Baldur's Gate is likely to care what you have to say." She shrugs.
"If you accept, you will have immediate access to my library... once the geas is in place. I would prefer you wrap up your research before the day's end, but if absolutely necessary I could make it available tomorrow for you as well. If you do not accept, you may show yourselves out."
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
As you make chit chat with the cultists, you find they are more concerned about the enemies you fought than anything else. While apparently accomplished raiders of caravans and villages, the thought of stiff, armed resistance to their operations obviously sets these ne'er do wells ill at ease.
A few of them perk up at the offer of wine, but others quash the idea. "Nah. Kefa doesn't want us drinkin' in the afternoon. I'm sure he see that we get more wine, or maybe some proper ale, before evening." The others grumble in defeat.
You do succeed in getting directions to the little girl's room. Bathrooms are up the stairs on the third floor. Ascending the steps, you see that the interior portions of the annex (where it connects to the larger warehouse it was built on the side of) is one large common room, full of cheap bunk beads and second hand furniture. Another handful of cultists sit up here in candlelight, talking or playing dice. A few of them are working at the brick interior wall with a hammer and chisel.
On the other side of the stairs, behind a set of double doors, is the latrine. Windows open up over each of the 'chutes' which seem to run down inside the exterior wall of the build, down three floors to empty into the drains below street level. The smell in here is nearly overpowering. There is a bathtub, but it is not available for use as it has been stuffed full of bodies, the source of the worst of the stink. There are at least four human bodies stacked inside the tub. They look to have been dead at least a day and based on their clothing, they look to be beggars or working poor. The bathroom doors are kept shut, and as long as no one else comes in to use the facility, you have some measure of privacy in here, next to the dead.
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Finn's goal in going to the latrines was more an excuse to scope out the base, the inhabitants of it and, hopefully, to find a way to slip out of it with the minimum chance of being detected. Assuming the windows over the chutes are the best chance of such a thing she will use her alone time to try to open one of them and slip out... Finn first tries to secure the doors - if not totally securely at least in a way to make it obvious someone is trying to come in so she has a moment or two to decide what to do. Depending which way the doors open and what kind of handles and such they have it could be a matter of wedging a couple of daggers into the floor behind the doors so they cannot just easily be pushed open, of using the belts from the corpses to tie the doorhandles together or such... Nothing that will keep a determined person out, just delay them a bit. If all else fails and she can't get out in time she wants to be able to claim she just wanted privacy anyway.
After that is, hopefully quickly, done she goes to the windows. She doesn't want to break one to escape - it's best if she slips out quietly and unnoticed - so she it trying to see if they open or if they can be unlocked and/or forced open with a minimum of noise. Thaumaturgy might help with that...? She's worried about climbing out the window and all, she has no particular skill in climbing down walls or anything... But she knows at least where this location is and jumping down three stories is likely less dangerous than hanging out here telling lies much longer. So assuming she can get the window open somehow she will take a deep breath and try it... (eek)
"Deal between us is fine and all, but can our war band help? They are good at what they do." Jararaka listens to the rest of lady's reasonings and hums in thought, tail swishing from side to side. "A lot about not harming the girl... I don't bite unless the other bites first, is this girl going to... be difficult about coming back to you?"
Regardless if the lady answers or not, Jararaka's tail stills when she hears that they get the library right away. She holds up a hand, "give us 2 minutes," and pulls Yeshil to a corner of the room slightly further from where they were standing. She knows full well the old lady can probably still hear them, but it's the principle of the thing.
"Okay-- just with the doability of this thing, I've only stolen things before, not people, so first time on this kinda job. Personally, last time I trusted a magical voice in my head, it turned out pretty sweet. I'd be down to do this, enemy's enemy's my friend, right? I'll help whoever wants to mess with the cult. And we are probably going near the cult anyway... But also, I don't know what you soft skin kids do, but probably not snatching people from cults. Actually, don't you soft skins have a story about not going into stranger's houses even if it's made of candy...?"
[essentially, down to make a deal with the lady, but Yeshil doesn't want to, we can go back to the Normal library!]
Yeshil wasn't really that bothered about getting anyone else's consent - it was more of a stalling tactic, or an escape clause if the deal sounded wrong. But at least it prompted some further questions from Jararaka, and gave Yeshil time to consider some of the woman's words...
The bit about "betraying her confidence" was telling. The old woman must know that this task might be seen by some as illicit, and indeed was probably why she was withholding the requested details about the girl and her predicament. Finn probably wouldn't care, but what about Jirel and Tylaerys? Perhaps it were better that they didn't know all the details.
Yeshil also tries to recall all that she knows about a "geas". (Arcana: 23) She doesn't like the idea of being locked in to a service, but there was probably a way to circumvent it if needed, and besides... she really, really wanted to look at this library!
Turning aside with Jararaka, Yeshil smiles at the lizard's unique way of describing things, such as 'stealing people'. Well, there's a first time for everything, right? she suggests. When Jararaka thoughtfully offers Yeshil an exit, Yeshil simply smiles and responds: I write my own stories!
If there are no further points to discuss, Yeshil will turn back to the woman and speak for the both of them: Okay lady, we'll do it.
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
The bespectacled man's face drops at Jirel's reaction.
"Oh, pardon me..."
"I didn't mean..."
"Oh my..."
He back-pedals a little with each comment as Jirel lays down the gravity of the situation. "A thousand pardons, I beg of thee. I only meant..." he stammers. "...The tree often gives warnings about impending illnesses, or when to schedule weddings, or career advice. I suspected there may be some pattern or intelligent design behind the prophecies. I had no idea... I assure you I am not part of whatever is going on... please, please, pardon my interruptions... I will leave you to your... whatever this is." He holds his small journal in front of him like a shield as he backs his way out of the park.
When he is gone, Torimesh chuckles. "He was harmless, I'm sure. Yet he never did grasp the true significance of the Drawing Tree. I have humored his studies, as there are things I myself don't understand... and the service of nature has room for intellectual curiosity, I believe." He chuckles again. "Though... it may be some time before Mr. Grayridge visits again. I think your gravitas may have taken a few years off the lad's life!" Then he smiles a somber smile. "Don't fret about it. I suspect you have enough on your plate already, and the boy's interest was just a distraction."
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
The double doors latch together at the top, though you doubt the doors would hold against more than one or two good shoves from the other side. A couple daggers planted into the floor would surely hold it long enough... at the cost of the daggers. Assuming that is no barrier to you, you can secure the doors to give you plenty of time.
As for the windows, they are already open, the only open windows you have seen in this building. Just wooden shutters, they lock at the bottom and swing out on hinges at the top, propped open now with short sticks to allow for some ventilation. There are six such windows along the wall, 2' x 2'. Not large by window standards, but plenty large enough for Finn to slip out.
Getting down, however, will be a challenge. It is too far to jump safely at three stories. The exterior of the wall outside is brick, so there are gaps and mortar lines where you can try and get a hand hold.
[If you try to jump, make a DEX save against DC 14. Take 3d6 bludgeoning damage, or half as much on a successful save.
If you attempt to climb down, make three Athletics checks against DC 10. If you fail the first check, take 3d6 bludgeoning damage. If you pass the first but fail the second, take 2d6 bludgeoning damage. If you pass the first two but fail the third, take 1d6 bludgeoning damage.]
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Yeshil, you know that a geas is a form of powerful enchantment. It is one of the spells that gives enchanters a dark reputation, for it can be used to exert influence on persons over great distances and for extended periods of time.
"Most good," the old woman says flatly at your acceptance. She asks for each of your left hands, and raises the needle she had been holding, which is now glowing with a faint golden radiance. As she whispers strange words, she pricks each of your left index fingers. From the moment the needle pierces your skin, you have a feeling of numbness and cold that spreads out from that point, up your arm, through your neck and over your faces, through your insides and down to the soles of your feet. The room seems to dim and sounds become muffled. It isn't uncomfortable or painful, but it is strange. You aren't sure if you are still breathing for a moment. You hear the woman's voice, louder and more clearly than before.
"When investigating the Cult of the Dragon, you must make effort to locate Frulam Mondath."
"When you have located Frulam Mondath, you must seek her out."
"If she is a prisoner, you must seek to free her, balancing expedience against her personal safety, and striving for both."
"You must convince Frulam Mondath that she is to return to visit me here at Hhune House in Baldur's Gate. If she cannot be convinced, you must see that she her brought here forcibly."
"You must do all you can to see that no mortal harm comes to Frulam Mondath, either at your hand or the hand of any other."
"You must take reasonable precautions to prevent her involvement with the Cult of the Dragon from coming to common knowledge."
"Once Frulam Mondath has been located, you must bring her to me personally, or else make such arrangements that her travel to me safely has been assured beyond a reasonable doubt."
She whispers something else, and then the moment passes and you feel like yourselves again.
She sits back down in the leather chair, exhausted. After a few slow breaths, the speaks again. "Frulam Mondath is a distant cousin of our family. Recent events have left me urgently in need of a dependable heir. Pickings are regrettably slim, and Frulam is the only acceptable option. If I cannot secure here and install her as the Hhune heir, the family holdings will pass to my sister's vile spawn, and that is something I cannot allow."
"You have met Frulam once already," she says to Jararaka. "She had a falling out with the Cult after the attack on Greenest and was a prisoner. Your group freed her but then she slipped away. The fool thought to return to the Cult and find a friendlier benefactor to smooth out the hard feelings after Greenest. I don't know what became of her after she rejoined them. The Cult masks itself from detection by magical means. I fear she is likely back in chains, though I cannot say for certain."
"If she has indeed been incarcerated by them again, I imagine convincing her to come back to me should be easy. If she has somehow talked her way back into the Cult's good graces... then it will be up to you to see that she comes back to me, by reason, guile, or force."
She sighs. "As for how to address one another, I already know your names. I am Lutecia Hhune, though Lady Hhune will suffice."
She waves a tired hand over her shoulder toward the open archway to the library. "You have access to the library. See the librarian with any questions." Then she pulls up a woolen blanket up to her neck and turns over in the chair.
Stepping around the woman in her chair, you enter the library. Dim, atmospheric lighting emanates from an antique wrought-iron chandelier hanging overhead, casting long shadows that seem to cloak the room in secrecy. Tall, dark wooden bookshelves line the walls, reaching from floor to ceiling and filled to capacity with volumes that appear as if they've weathered the passage of centuries. The shelves themselves seem to lean slightly under the weight of the accumulated knowledge, creating an illusion that the stacks might fall down upon you at any moment.
The few spaces on the walls not covered will bookshelves are instead adorned with tapestries depicting scenes of ancient rituals and battles between great beasts, devils and dragons, their faded colors adding to the overall sense of antiquity. A large, ornate globe stands near a towering stone fireplace, though the fireplace seems to have been decomissioned and is actually stuffed with a chest full of scrolls. An antique reading desk, intricately carved with mystic symbols and surrounded by candelabras, sits in the center of the room. Upon it lies an open grimoire, as if someone had only just stepped away, leaving behind a sense of interrupted study. Heavy, velvet drapes hang at the windows, allowing only a modicum of dim light to filter through. The air is tinged with the scent of ancient paper and the faintest hint of old ink, and pipe smoke.
Suddenly, the pages of the grimoire begin to flip as though turned by a unseen hand, and the scent of smoke intensifies. In a whirl of dust, a small figure appears before you. He (for it does seem to be a he) stands about the height of a human toddler. Its features resemble those of a goblin, though instead of green its skin is an ashen gray and it bears a long beard. It taps a curly toed shoe in irritation as it puffs on a long pipe, the stem easily as long as the figure is tall.
"Alright then,"it says in a squeaky, high pitched voice. "Let's get on with it. What information are you looking for?"
[Yeshil and Jararaka, each of you provide three questions you are trying to answer, or pieces of information you want to uncover. Keep in mind, it should be information that could reasonably exist in an old book. Then make two Investigation checks, each. Yeshil, based on the Sage background and your familiarity with libraries, I will say you can make one of your rolls with advantage.]
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Stabbing a couple of daggers just behind the doors to slow anyone who may come looking. She frowns a bit at the loss of the daggers and reminds herself to replace them plus as soon as possible... Finn then rushes over to the windows. She tries to rush but the pure uncleanliness of the area forces more delicacy and care than she otherwise would spend. Hefting herself up to get a glance out the windows she considers her options... It's a rather high window to just jump out of but she's not particularly strong and so doesn't love her prospects of climbing down either. The jump would at least be quick... But climbing may at least minimize her chance of doing real damage to herself...
Speaking of herself, she does take a moment to not look herself. She has no time to do anything about her clothing or armor, not even really to adjust it, but a new face and hair could at least add some confusion if she is spotted leaving or right outside. Then she climbs out the window... She considers just doing a hanging drop but decides, from this angle, it does look like she may be able to get some decent handholds to climb down.
Athletics check 1: 4
Moving her left hand a bit further left so as to try and be able to wedge her toes into a nook she sees her hand moves onto something cold and wet and with a consistency of lump oatmeal. Having just exited one of the most dubious restrooms she ever did experience her mind immediately went into the total ICK factor and she pulled her hand back recklessly and immediately lost all hold on the wall, falling recklessly to the ground three stories below. She fights off the immediate need to pull her hand back and swallows back the ickness factor, determined to not fall...
(rolled 11 damage BUT when about to implement it I saw char sheet had Inspiration from some point sometime? So I decided to use that up and reroll the first Athletics check?)
Athletics check 1 again: 19! Much better...
Able to climb down about a story or so Finn then sees some crumbling brick off to the right. If she can reach that far she thinks that'll provide an easy handhold... At least if she's quick and doesn't give it too much time to crumble away.
Athletic check 2: 18! She has this...
With a sigh and a grin she is able to stretch and grab the broken bricks and climb about half the remaining distance down. There is no obvious help for her for the remaining distance but at this point she if feeling brave and just scrambles down the last ten feet or so, trusting in luck... And the fact she's no longer quite that high up.
Athletics check 3: 14... Phew!
Feet firmly planted on the ground now Finn refrains from letting our a shout of glee but does quickly wipe her hand off on her pants and reminds herself to get new pants. She did NOT want to think about what that was anymore than she already has. Misses Binklesworth? she thinks, trying to reach out to the familiar cat telepathically (can do if within 100 feet. Cat was last left outside the place Finn met up with the Cultists with instructions to follow at a discreet distance to where she goes...) If she can communicate in this way then she instructs Misses Binklesworth to stay near the building but try to remain unseen while she watches the activity. If she cannot communicate in this way she will wait until she gets somewhere safe-ish where she can dismiss and then resummon the familiar...
Taking a quick look around to get her bearings, Finn quickly darts off in the direction she guesses is the most deserted. It's time to get herself lost, change her face once again, then worry about finding her way back to her friends...
The blonde half-elf nods in agreement with Jirel's firm words of warning to the young bespectacled man. While she senses he is telling the truth about why he is there he needed to understand, to fully understand, the gravity of what had been shown to the blonde giantess, and the danger he might be in simply by possessing any knowledge of this. She regretted now she hadn't made sure they were alone before the ritual had begun, she had still quite a lot to learn about limiting the spread of sensetive information, something she would likely pay dearly for one day. She could only hope now that whatever the young man had gleaned would not ever reach the ears of those who opposed them.
"The boy might be harmless, but what was shown here was information nothing but harmless I'm afraid. We can only hope that no one will find out about the sensetive knowledge he might have carried away from here."Tylaerys turns and says to the bald dwarven druid with a weak smile as the young bespectacled man leaves the park, then walking up close to Jirel, gently taking her hand. "Are you okay? Should we find somewhere to talk?" She says softly and quietly, looking up into the honey hues of the blonde giantess. She looks up at her with pleading silvery eyes, wanting to listen to Jirel, to comfort and reassure her if she can, but the half-elf is not sure if this is the time or the place.
(Can Tylaerys determine if Joflyn would have seen what was shown on the strips of bark that was given to Jirel?)
It's highly unlikely that the young man could have seen either image. He never drew within 15 feet of Jirel. He most likely only knows what Jirel said to him... that danger is coming.
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Jirel
The warrior would dip her head to the retreating researcher. She did appreciate the fact that he was recording all he was about the Drawing tree, and genuinely hoped he would be back, for that would mean that there could still be something to come back too. At worst case scenario, should the visions come to full fruition, at least the history of the great tree was recorded and not entirely lost. With that thought, honey eyes would scan the immediate area. While she wanted to assume that the wise druid Torimesh, or even Joflyn, could already have some preservations, Jirel was still compelled to see if she could find even a just single seed to pick up and preserve herself, if it were meant to be.
(Roll: 6 +0 if investigation, +3 perception or survival for tree preservation/succession)
"Maybe I should have some them street snacks sent his way." Jirel grunts, perhaps with a hint of a playful smirk twitching on her lip from Torimesh's infectious chuckle. She'd nod in agreement and recognition of the wise sage's words of assurance. Then she'd inhale a deep breath and exhale into the somber truth of his last words. Yes, a distraction. Many distractions. Which one will aid them, which one with cost them? Isn't that always the question.
Feeling Tylaerys slip a hand in hers, Jirel instinctually, and gently, flexes her grip in soft assurance. "He's only obtained my name, an' that I have the information. An innocent need not be extracted fer information if I had divulged more." She'd rather direct any danger directly to her than a scholar trying to study and understand the intertwining of nature and divination.
The giantess secures her greataxe at her back to free up her hand, placing it on the bark of the Drawing Tree. "Thank you fer sharing yer wisdom." Not only to her, but others. Then she looks to Torimesh, bowing her head to him in thanks for seeking her out as per the Great Tree's desire. "Thank you Torimesh. Is there a way we can remain in contact?" She asks. Jirel may wish to try to seek his wisdom once more; she may wish to warn him of anything she discovers; and/or hopes he could warn her should something occur while away.
(Did Torimesh see the visions? Sorry if it was stated/rped and I missed it. Jirel wasn't actively hiding the knowledge from him, but would wonder how involved the druid wanted to get in this fight considering the looming knowledge of the death of the tree. Was he comfortable in the cycle of things, or did he have desire to push back against the looming threats? She'd respect his desire to keep a distance, however would welcome his wisdom and eyes in the area.) (Insight if needed higher than perception of 11: 10 )
"Yes. We must talk." Jirel would finally say to Tylaerys. There was lots to talk about. And they indeed needed a safe place to do so, free of prying eyes and ears, and the giantess' preference was to be within viewing range of the Drawing Tree until it was absolutely necessary for them to leave and meet up with the others. Her head would also be on a swivel, paranoid of threats, especially over the faces in the vision.
(Roll w/ advantage assuming Tylaerys would help: 17 +0 if investigation, +3 perception or survival for somewhere ideal to talk.) (Roll: 2 +0 if investigation, +3 perception or survival for any threats or suspicious foot prints/tracks.) (Stealth: 23 for trying to keep quiet and reduce her presence/tracks)
Honestly though, I gave up rolling inside posts 'cause they always seemed horrendously low to me. I still get bad rolls using the game log but not as consistently horrendous...
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Tylaerys
The young blonde half-elf laughs softly at the mention of street snacks, her heart warming over hearing the blonde giantess jest. Tylaerys would definitely treat her to something well-deserved to nibble on before they reconvened with the others.
Tylaerys relaxes as she feels Jirel's hand softly squeeze hers, smiling warmly up at the blonde giantess, then joining her in thanking Torimesh with a gentle bow. The dwarven druid might prove to be a most valuable ally in the days ahead. Jirel was right of course, the young scholar knew very little and it was unlikely their enemies would even know their paths had crossed.
The young blonde half-elf nods in agreement with Jirel and joins her in glancing around for a secluded place in the garden, a place away from prying eyes, ready to follow the lead of the blonde giantess.
Stealth: 18
(Yes, help action provided :-) And if no good secluded place is found, Tylaerys will offer to create an illusion of a large shrubbery wherein the two can speak away from prying eyes at least ;-)
You didn't see Torimesh pause to examine the visions handed to Jirel, but you sense he has some understanding of what was in them. He alludes that he has a deeper connection to the spirit within the Drawing Tree. As to his intentions, Jirel, the old druid is an enigma to you. He does answer your question. "I have means of reaching out to contact you, but I'm afraid it really only works when I initiate it. If you wish to correspond with me, I fear mundane correspondence would be required. The couriers in the city know where to find me, and a letter is likely to make its way to me in good time."
Examining the tree, you find it is unique in more ways than one. Not only is it of a species you cannot quite place, it has no obvious means of seeding or pollination.
You step aside to the furthest corner of the little park, up against the hillside and the Outer Wall of the city. The vines and shrubs are thicker here, making it less popular for picnics and child's play. You seem to have some measure of privacy here.
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Safely on the ground, you get a big '10-4' in response from Misses Binklesworth, whom you are certain is already staking out a safe and comfortable spot from which to observe this location.
You then duck down an alley, cross over the next street, and then loiter near some refuse bins outside a meat market. You are able to find an inconspicuous place to shapeshift.
[Which face are you putting on? A new one, or one we have seen before?]
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Ducking into an alley Finn waits a minute or five to try to ensure she is alone and not being followed or watched before she changes her face... (Perception: 4 - So she's totally confident she got cleanly away!) She then catches her breath and falls back into the face she started this adventure with. It is, after all, one of her most familiar personas and so it is easy to lapse back into...
Once that is accomplished she does her best to sneak her way back to the others... though come to think of it she cannot remember if they had an agreed to meeting place. With no location set, that she recalls, she heads back to the little shop they were at near the hotel before they split up. It should be easy enough to scout there and the hotel until one of them return?
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Yeshil
Yeshil glances again at Jararaka and shrugs. "Simple enough?" she repeats, but in her mind she breaths a sigh of relief. Previous thoughts of possibly having to sacrifice an organ or personality trait quickly dissipate. Perhaps she isn't that kind of old lady...
If Jararaka is also in agreement on this quest, then Yeshil will take the liberty of replying. Still maintaining the youthful air of bravado, she cocks her hip to one side and casually inspects her fingernails while drawling:
Well... I can't speak for the others, but... assuming they agree... then yeah, sure! So who is this chick? She got a name? Human? Rich kid is she? She your what - great-great-grandkid? What's she look like? And what's she doing with the Dragon Cult? Are we gonna have to drag her out, or is there something that would make her wanna come willingly?
Then almost as an afterthought she adds:
Is this got something to do with that mess of yours with the Vanthampurs and all that?
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Jararaka
Jararaka blinks a few times after the crone states the job, waiting for her to add some sort of impossible request. She eventually realises that that was all the old lady's offering up for now, and shrugs, confirming what Yeshil mentions about having to ask the others first. "First time snatching a person but fair enough... and we get to access to the library forever? Is this woman the librarian?"
"Any reason you can't send your people or the guards to fetch this woman?" Jararaka asks as she glances outside a window in the direction of the streets and guardsmen. "How did she end up with them anyway? You don't seem to be a fan of the cult."
Suddenly remembering, she adds, "if we are doing this, how should we refer to you? I'm Jararaka."
Jararaka and Yeshil:
The elderly woman shakes her head. "I am not asking to hire the rest of your little war band. I am making this offer to the two of you. You do not require their consent, for they shall not be a party to our agreement."
She draws forth a small, straight piece of metal, something like a long sewing needle. "You must understand... Much is riding on this matter. While I would love to be able to accept a simple verbal agreement, I will need more security than that. Should the two of you accept, you will need to enter into a more... binding... agreement with me. You will have to submit to a magical compulsion spell. A geas. It won't alter your personality or directly control your actions, but you will be made to be mindful - at all times - of the terms of our agreement. And any attempt to break those terms... such as doing harm to or killing the girl, or abandoning your obligations to return her to me... I will immediately be made aware of the act. Also, there may be some psychic discomfort on your end."
She looks at you both, level and coolly. "I can't engage the guards as this matter requires urgency and privacy... neither of which are things I can find or expect from local sources. The two of you, however... even if you did break my geas and betray my confidence - who are you? No one in Baldur's Gate is likely to care what you have to say." She shrugs.
"If you accept, you will have immediate access to my library... once the geas is in place. I would prefer you wrap up your research before the day's end, but if absolutely necessary I could make it available tomorrow for you as well. If you do not accept, you may show yourselves out."
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Finn:
As you make chit chat with the cultists, you find they are more concerned about the enemies you fought than anything else. While apparently accomplished raiders of caravans and villages, the thought of stiff, armed resistance to their operations obviously sets these ne'er do wells ill at ease.
A few of them perk up at the offer of wine, but others quash the idea. "Nah. Kefa doesn't want us drinkin' in the afternoon. I'm sure he see that we get more wine, or maybe some proper ale, before evening." The others grumble in defeat.
You do succeed in getting directions to the little girl's room. Bathrooms are up the stairs on the third floor. Ascending the steps, you see that the interior portions of the annex (where it connects to the larger warehouse it was built on the side of) is one large common room, full of cheap bunk beads and second hand furniture. Another handful of cultists sit up here in candlelight, talking or playing dice. A few of them are working at the brick interior wall with a hammer and chisel.
On the other side of the stairs, behind a set of double doors, is the latrine. Windows open up over each of the 'chutes' which seem to run down inside the exterior wall of the build, down three floors to empty into the drains below street level. The smell in here is nearly overpowering. There is a bathtub, but it is not available for use as it has been stuffed full of bodies, the source of the worst of the stink. There are at least four human bodies stacked inside the tub. They look to have been dead at least a day and based on their clothing, they look to be beggars or working poor. The bathroom doors are kept shut, and as long as no one else comes in to use the facility, you have some measure of privacy in here, next to the dead.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Finn
Finn's goal in going to the latrines was more an excuse to scope out the base, the inhabitants of it and, hopefully, to find a way to slip out of it with the minimum chance of being detected. Assuming the windows over the chutes are the best chance of such a thing she will use her alone time to try to open one of them and slip out... Finn first tries to secure the doors - if not totally securely at least in a way to make it obvious someone is trying to come in so she has a moment or two to decide what to do. Depending which way the doors open and what kind of handles and such they have it could be a matter of wedging a couple of daggers into the floor behind the doors so they cannot just easily be pushed open, of using the belts from the corpses to tie the doorhandles together or such... Nothing that will keep a determined person out, just delay them a bit. If all else fails and she can't get out in time she wants to be able to claim she just wanted privacy anyway.
After that is, hopefully quickly, done she goes to the windows. She doesn't want to break one to escape - it's best if she slips out quietly and unnoticed - so she it trying to see if they open or if they can be unlocked and/or forced open with a minimum of noise. Thaumaturgy might help with that...? She's worried about climbing out the window and all, she has no particular skill in climbing down walls or anything... But she knows at least where this location is and jumping down three stories is likely less dangerous than hanging out here telling lies much longer. So assuming she can get the window open somehow she will take a deep breath and try it... (eek)
Jararaka
"Deal between us is fine and all, but can our war band help? They are good at what they do." Jararaka listens to the rest of lady's reasonings and hums in thought, tail swishing from side to side. "A lot about not harming the girl... I don't bite unless the other bites first, is this girl going to... be difficult about coming back to you?"
Regardless if the lady answers or not, Jararaka's tail stills when she hears that they get the library right away. She holds up a hand, "give us 2 minutes," and pulls Yeshil to a corner of the room slightly further from where they were standing. She knows full well the old lady can probably still hear them, but it's the principle of the thing.
"Okay-- just with the doability of this thing, I've only stolen things before, not people, so first time on this kinda job. Personally, last time I trusted a magical voice in my head, it turned out pretty sweet. I'd be down to do this, enemy's enemy's my friend, right? I'll help whoever wants to mess with the cult. And we are probably going near the cult anyway... But also, I don't know what you soft skin kids do, but probably not snatching people from cults. Actually, don't you soft skins have a story about not going into stranger's houses even if it's made of candy...?"
[essentially, down to make a deal with the lady, but Yeshil doesn't want to, we can go back to the Normal library!]
Yeshil wasn't really that bothered about getting anyone else's consent - it was more of a stalling tactic, or an escape clause if the deal sounded wrong. But at least it prompted some further questions from Jararaka, and gave Yeshil time to consider some of the woman's words...
The bit about "betraying her confidence" was telling. The old woman must know that this task might be seen by some as illicit, and indeed was probably why she was withholding the requested details about the girl and her predicament. Finn probably wouldn't care, but what about Jirel and Tylaerys? Perhaps it were better that they didn't know all the details.
Yeshil also tries to recall all that she knows about a "geas". (Arcana: 23) She doesn't like the idea of being locked in to a service, but there was probably a way to circumvent it if needed, and besides... she really, really wanted to look at this library!
Turning aside with Jararaka, Yeshil smiles at the lizard's unique way of describing things, such as 'stealing people'. Well, there's a first time for everything, right? she suggests. When Jararaka thoughtfully offers Yeshil an exit, Yeshil simply smiles and responds: I write my own stories!
If there are no further points to discuss, Yeshil will turn back to the woman and speak for the both of them: Okay lady, we'll do it.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Tylaerys and Jirel:
The bespectacled man's face drops at Jirel's reaction.
"Oh, pardon me..."
"I didn't mean..."
"Oh my..."
He back-pedals a little with each comment as Jirel lays down the gravity of the situation. "A thousand pardons, I beg of thee. I only meant..." he stammers. "...The tree often gives warnings about impending illnesses, or when to schedule weddings, or career advice. I suspected there may be some pattern or intelligent design behind the prophecies. I had no idea... I assure you I am not part of whatever is going on... please, please, pardon my interruptions... I will leave you to your... whatever this is." He holds his small journal in front of him like a shield as he backs his way out of the park.
When he is gone, Torimesh chuckles. "He was harmless, I'm sure. Yet he never did grasp the true significance of the Drawing Tree. I have humored his studies, as there are things I myself don't understand... and the service of nature has room for intellectual curiosity, I believe." He chuckles again. "Though... it may be some time before Mr. Grayridge visits again. I think your gravitas may have taken a few years off the lad's life!" Then he smiles a somber smile. "Don't fret about it. I suspect you have enough on your plate already, and the boy's interest was just a distraction."
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Finn:
The double doors latch together at the top, though you doubt the doors would hold against more than one or two good shoves from the other side. A couple daggers planted into the floor would surely hold it long enough... at the cost of the daggers. Assuming that is no barrier to you, you can secure the doors to give you plenty of time.
As for the windows, they are already open, the only open windows you have seen in this building. Just wooden shutters, they lock at the bottom and swing out on hinges at the top, propped open now with short sticks to allow for some ventilation. There are six such windows along the wall, 2' x 2'. Not large by window standards, but plenty large enough for Finn to slip out.
Getting down, however, will be a challenge. It is too far to jump safely at three stories. The exterior of the wall outside is brick, so there are gaps and mortar lines where you can try and get a hand hold.
[If you try to jump, make a DEX save against DC 14. Take 3d6 bludgeoning damage, or half as much on a successful save.
If you attempt to climb down, make three Athletics checks against DC 10. If you fail the first check, take 3d6 bludgeoning damage. If you pass the first but fail the second, take 2d6 bludgeoning damage. If you pass the first two but fail the third, take 1d6 bludgeoning damage.]
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Yeshil and Jararaka:
Yeshil, you know that a geas is a form of powerful enchantment. It is one of the spells that gives enchanters a dark reputation, for it can be used to exert influence on persons over great distances and for extended periods of time.
"Most good," the old woman says flatly at your acceptance. She asks for each of your left hands, and raises the needle she had been holding, which is now glowing with a faint golden radiance. As she whispers strange words, she pricks each of your left index fingers. From the moment the needle pierces your skin, you have a feeling of numbness and cold that spreads out from that point, up your arm, through your neck and over your faces, through your insides and down to the soles of your feet. The room seems to dim and sounds become muffled. It isn't uncomfortable or painful, but it is strange. You aren't sure if you are still breathing for a moment. You hear the woman's voice, louder and more clearly than before.
"When investigating the Cult of the Dragon, you must make effort to locate Frulam Mondath."
"When you have located Frulam Mondath, you must seek her out."
"If she is a prisoner, you must seek to free her, balancing expedience against her personal safety, and striving for both."
"You must convince Frulam Mondath that she is to return to visit me here at Hhune House in Baldur's Gate. If she cannot be convinced, you must see that she her brought here forcibly."
"You must do all you can to see that no mortal harm comes to Frulam Mondath, either at your hand or the hand of any other."
"You must take reasonable precautions to prevent her involvement with the Cult of the Dragon from coming to common knowledge."
"Once Frulam Mondath has been located, you must bring her to me personally, or else make such arrangements that her travel to me safely has been assured beyond a reasonable doubt."
She whispers something else, and then the moment passes and you feel like yourselves again.
She sits back down in the leather chair, exhausted. After a few slow breaths, the speaks again. "Frulam Mondath is a distant cousin of our family. Recent events have left me urgently in need of a dependable heir. Pickings are regrettably slim, and Frulam is the only acceptable option. If I cannot secure here and install her as the Hhune heir, the family holdings will pass to my sister's vile spawn, and that is something I cannot allow."
"You have met Frulam once already," she says to Jararaka. "She had a falling out with the Cult after the attack on Greenest and was a prisoner. Your group freed her but then she slipped away. The fool thought to return to the Cult and find a friendlier benefactor to smooth out the hard feelings after Greenest. I don't know what became of her after she rejoined them. The Cult masks itself from detection by magical means. I fear she is likely back in chains, though I cannot say for certain."
"If she has indeed been incarcerated by them again, I imagine convincing her to come back to me should be easy. If she has somehow talked her way back into the Cult's good graces... then it will be up to you to see that she comes back to me, by reason, guile, or force."
She sighs. "As for how to address one another, I already know your names. I am Lutecia Hhune, though Lady Hhune will suffice."
She waves a tired hand over her shoulder toward the open archway to the library. "You have access to the library. See the librarian with any questions." Then she pulls up a woolen blanket up to her neck and turns over in the chair.
Stepping around the woman in her chair, you enter the library. Dim, atmospheric lighting emanates from an antique wrought-iron chandelier hanging overhead, casting long shadows that seem to cloak the room in secrecy. Tall, dark wooden bookshelves line the walls, reaching from floor to ceiling and filled to capacity with volumes that appear as if they've weathered the passage of centuries. The shelves themselves seem to lean slightly under the weight of the accumulated knowledge, creating an illusion that the stacks might fall down upon you at any moment.
The few spaces on the walls not covered will bookshelves are instead adorned with tapestries depicting scenes of ancient rituals and battles between great beasts, devils and dragons, their faded colors adding to the overall sense of antiquity. A large, ornate globe stands near a towering stone fireplace, though the fireplace seems to have been decomissioned and is actually stuffed with a chest full of scrolls. An antique reading desk, intricately carved with mystic symbols and surrounded by candelabras, sits in the center of the room. Upon it lies an open grimoire, as if someone had only just stepped away, leaving behind a sense of interrupted study. Heavy, velvet drapes hang at the windows, allowing only a modicum of dim light to filter through. The air is tinged with the scent of ancient paper and the faintest hint of old ink, and pipe smoke.
Suddenly, the pages of the grimoire begin to flip as though turned by a unseen hand, and the scent of smoke intensifies. In a whirl of dust, a small figure appears before you. He (for it does seem to be a he) stands about the height of a human toddler. Its features resemble those of a goblin, though instead of green its skin is an ashen gray and it bears a long beard. It taps a curly toed shoe in irritation as it puffs on a long pipe, the stem easily as long as the figure is tall.
"Alright then," it says in a squeaky, high pitched voice. "Let's get on with it. What information are you looking for?"
[Yeshil and Jararaka, each of you provide three questions you are trying to answer, or pieces of information you want to uncover. Keep in mind, it should be information that could reasonably exist in an old book. Then make two Investigation checks, each. Yeshil, based on the Sage background and your familiarity with libraries, I will say you can make one of your rolls with advantage.]
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
HEY!!! ;)
Finn
Stabbing a couple of daggers just behind the doors to slow anyone who may come looking. She frowns a bit at the loss of the daggers and reminds herself to replace them plus as soon as possible... Finn then rushes over to the windows. She tries to rush but the pure uncleanliness of the area forces more delicacy and care than she otherwise would spend. Hefting herself up to get a glance out the windows she considers her options... It's a rather high window to just jump out of but she's not particularly strong and so doesn't love her prospects of climbing down either. The jump would at least be quick... But climbing may at least minimize her chance of doing real damage to herself...
Speaking of herself, she does take a moment to not look herself. She has no time to do anything about her clothing or armor, not even really to adjust it, but a new face and hair could at least add some confusion if she is spotted leaving or right outside. Then she climbs out the window... She considers just doing a hanging drop but decides, from this angle, it does look like she may be able to get some decent handholds to climb down.
Athletics check 1: 4
Moving her left hand a bit further left so as to try and be able to wedge her toes into a nook she sees her hand moves onto something cold and wet and with a consistency of lump oatmeal.
Having just exited one of the most dubious restrooms she ever did experience her mind immediately went into the total ICK factor and she pulled her hand back recklessly and immediately lost all hold on the wall, falling recklessly to the ground three stories below.She fights off the immediate need to pull her hand back and swallows back the ickness factor, determined to not fall...(rolled 11 damage BUT when about to implement it I saw char sheet had Inspiration from some point sometime? So I decided to use that up and reroll the first Athletics check?)
Athletics check 1 again: 19! Much better...
Able to climb down about a story or so Finn then sees some crumbling brick off to the right. If she can reach that far she thinks that'll provide an easy handhold... At least if she's quick and doesn't give it too much time to crumble away.
Athletic check 2: 18! She has this...
With a sigh and a grin she is able to stretch and grab the broken bricks and climb about half the remaining distance down. There is no obvious help for her for the remaining distance but at this point she if feeling brave and just scrambles down the last ten feet or so, trusting in luck... And the fact she's no longer quite that high up.
Athletics check 3: 14... Phew!
Feet firmly planted on the ground now Finn refrains from letting our a shout of glee but does quickly wipe her hand off on her pants and reminds herself to get new pants. She did NOT want to think about what that was anymore than she already has. Misses Binklesworth? she thinks, trying to reach out to the familiar cat telepathically (can do if within 100 feet. Cat was last left outside the place Finn met up with the Cultists with instructions to follow at a discreet distance to where she goes...) If she can communicate in this way then she instructs Misses Binklesworth to stay near the building but try to remain unseen while she watches the activity. If she cannot communicate in this way she will wait until she gets somewhere safe-ish where she can dismiss and then resummon the familiar...
Taking a quick look around to get her bearings, Finn quickly darts off in the direction she guesses is the most deserted. It's time to get herself lost, change her face once again, then worry about finding her way back to her friends...
Tylaerys
The blonde half-elf nods in agreement with Jirel's firm words of warning to the young bespectacled man. While she senses he is telling the truth about why he is there he needed to understand, to fully understand, the gravity of what had been shown to the blonde giantess, and the danger he might be in simply by possessing any knowledge of this. She regretted now she hadn't made sure they were alone before the ritual had begun, she had still quite a lot to learn about limiting the spread of sensetive information, something she would likely pay dearly for one day. She could only hope now that whatever the young man had gleaned would not ever reach the ears of those who opposed them.
"The boy might be harmless, but what was shown here was information nothing but harmless I'm afraid. We can only hope that no one will find out about the sensetive knowledge he might have carried away from here." Tylaerys turns and says to the bald dwarven druid with a weak smile as the young bespectacled man leaves the park, then walking up close to Jirel, gently taking her hand. "Are you okay? Should we find somewhere to talk?" She says softly and quietly, looking up into the honey hues of the blonde giantess. She looks up at her with pleading silvery eyes, wanting to listen to Jirel, to comfort and reassure her if she can, but the half-elf is not sure if this is the time or the place.
(Can Tylaerys determine if Joflyn would have seen what was shown on the strips of bark that was given to Jirel?)
Tylaerys / Jirel
It's highly unlikely that the young man could have seen either image. He never drew within 15 feet of Jirel. He most likely only knows what Jirel said to him... that danger is coming.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Oops, keep forgetting to use spoilers. Pretend you didn't see that. :)
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Jirel
The warrior would dip her head to the retreating researcher. She did appreciate the fact that he was recording all he was about the Drawing tree, and genuinely hoped he would be back, for that would mean that there could still be something to come back too. At worst case scenario, should the visions come to full fruition, at least the history of the great tree was recorded and not entirely lost. With that thought, honey eyes would scan the immediate area. While she wanted to assume that the wise druid Torimesh, or even Joflyn, could already have some preservations, Jirel was still compelled to see if she could find even a just single seed to pick up and preserve herself, if it were meant to be.
(Roll: 6 +0 if investigation, +3 perception or survival for tree preservation/succession)
"Maybe I should have some them street snacks sent his way." Jirel grunts, perhaps with a hint of a playful smirk twitching on her lip from Torimesh's infectious chuckle. She'd nod in agreement and recognition of the wise sage's words of assurance. Then she'd inhale a deep breath and exhale into the somber truth of his last words. Yes, a distraction. Many distractions. Which one will aid them, which one with cost them? Isn't that always the question.
Feeling Tylaerys slip a hand in hers, Jirel instinctually, and gently, flexes her grip in soft assurance. "He's only obtained my name, an' that I have the information. An innocent need not be extracted fer information if I had divulged more." She'd rather direct any danger directly to her than a scholar trying to study and understand the intertwining of nature and divination.
The giantess secures her greataxe at her back to free up her hand, placing it on the bark of the Drawing Tree. "Thank you fer sharing yer wisdom." Not only to her, but others. Then she looks to Torimesh, bowing her head to him in thanks for seeking her out as per the Great Tree's desire. "Thank you Torimesh. Is there a way we can remain in contact?" She asks. Jirel may wish to try to seek his wisdom once more; she may wish to warn him of anything she discovers; and/or hopes he could warn her should something occur while away.
(Did Torimesh see the visions? Sorry if it was stated/rped and I missed it. Jirel wasn't actively hiding the knowledge from him, but would wonder how involved the druid wanted to get in this fight considering the looming knowledge of the death of the tree. Was he comfortable in the cycle of things, or did he have desire to push back against the looming threats? She'd respect his desire to keep a distance, however would welcome his wisdom and eyes in the area.)
(Insight if needed higher than perception of 11: 10 )
"Yes. We must talk." Jirel would finally say to Tylaerys. There was lots to talk about. And they indeed needed a safe place to do so, free of prying eyes and ears, and the giantess' preference was to be within viewing range of the Drawing Tree until it was absolutely necessary for them to leave and meet up with the others. Her head would also be on a swivel, paranoid of threats, especially over the faces in the vision.
(Roll w/ advantage assuming Tylaerys would help: 17 +0 if investigation, +3 perception or survival for somewhere ideal to talk.)
(Roll: 2 +0 if investigation, +3 perception or survival for any threats or suspicious foot prints/tracks.)
(Stealth: 23 for trying to keep quiet and reduce her presence/tracks)
just an unstable unicorn.
omg, you are rolling bad everywhere!!!
Honestly though, I gave up rolling inside posts 'cause they always seemed horrendously low to me. I still get bad rolls using the game log but not as consistently horrendous...
Tylaerys
The young blonde half-elf laughs softly at the mention of street snacks, her heart warming over hearing the blonde giantess jest. Tylaerys would definitely treat her to something well-deserved to nibble on before they reconvened with the others.
Tylaerys relaxes as she feels Jirel's hand softly squeeze hers, smiling warmly up at the blonde giantess, then joining her in thanking Torimesh with a gentle bow. The dwarven druid might prove to be a most valuable ally in the days ahead. Jirel was right of course, the young scholar knew very little and it was unlikely their enemies would even know their paths had crossed.
The young blonde half-elf nods in agreement with Jirel and joins her in glancing around for a secluded place in the garden, a place away from prying eyes, ready to follow the lead of the blonde giantess.
Stealth: 18
(Yes, help action provided :-) And if no good secluded place is found, Tylaerys will offer to create an illusion of a large shrubbery wherein the two can speak away from prying eyes at least ;-)
Tylaerys and Jirel:
You didn't see Torimesh pause to examine the visions handed to Jirel, but you sense he has some understanding of what was in them. He alludes that he has a deeper connection to the spirit within the Drawing Tree. As to his intentions, Jirel, the old druid is an enigma to you. He does answer your question. "I have means of reaching out to contact you, but I'm afraid it really only works when I initiate it. If you wish to correspond with me, I fear mundane correspondence would be required. The couriers in the city know where to find me, and a letter is likely to make its way to me in good time."
Examining the tree, you find it is unique in more ways than one. Not only is it of a species you cannot quite place, it has no obvious means of seeding or pollination.
You step aside to the furthest corner of the little park, up against the hillside and the Outer Wall of the city. The vines and shrubs are thicker here, making it less popular for picnics and child's play. You seem to have some measure of privacy here.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Finn:
Safely on the ground, you get a big '10-4' in response from Misses Binklesworth, whom you are certain is already staking out a safe and comfortable spot from which to observe this location.
You then duck down an alley, cross over the next street, and then loiter near some refuse bins outside a meat market. You are able to find an inconspicuous place to shapeshift.
[Which face are you putting on? A new one, or one we have seen before?]
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Finn
Ducking into an alley Finn waits a minute or five to try to ensure she is alone and not being followed or watched before she changes her face... (Perception: 4 - So she's totally confident she got cleanly away!) She then catches her breath and falls back into the face she started this adventure with. It is, after all, one of her most familiar personas and so it is easy to lapse back into...
Once that is accomplished she does her best to sneak her way back to the others... though come to think of it she cannot remember if they had an agreed to meeting place. With no location set, that she recalls, she heads back to the little shop they were at near the hotel before they split up. It should be easy enough to scout there and the hotel until one of them return?