Putting your plan into action, you realize, almost too late, that the horse cannot see as well in the darkness as you can. Aiding the beast around obstacles takes all your riding skill, and the pursuers keep pace with or without your desire to lead them on. When you decide to really push the animal and make the move to flee toward Greenest, you still have that same problem. There is a limit to how fast the horse can move in the dark in this kind of terrain. Eventually, you do pull away and leave the cultists far behind, but it is more a result of their stamina wearing out than you simply outpacing them.
In the middle of the night you reach Greenest, but have hours to wait before anyone else arrives.
Jirel and Cheddar:
With Cheddar back in the fold, you leave the chainmailed woman to her fate and the two of you are able to lead the prisoners on foot back toward Greenest. It is a much longer journey than it had been on horseback, but as the sun is rising in the eastern sky, you cross over the edge of the 'bowl' and down into the gentle valley and the town is in sight. The prisoners rejoice, some of them weeping as they sprint the last mile home.
Jararaka:
Your spell obliterates the kobolds. It also draws more torches in your direction. You scramble out of there and make your way on foot back in the direction of Greenest.
It is a long and lonely walk, and more than once you question your sense of direction, but shortly after dawn you see the fields and before you and the Keep O'the Greenfields in the distance.
Finn:
You and the Garbage Men nonchalantly guide your horses through the darkness, following the cultists as they scamper and scurry through the broken lands north of their camp. As the night grows late and the searches begin to fall back, you do not return with them, continuing north to Greenest.
It is shortly after dawn when you arrive.
The prisoners have returned to their homes and Tylaerys, Jirel and Cheddar have been together about an hour at the edge of town watching for sign, when they spot the tall lizardwoman Jararaka striding across the fields, and from another direction Finn and the Garbage Men riding solemnly toward them. At last, after a long and eventful evening, the group is reunited.
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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 she realizes she is the first to reach Greenest, Tylaerys would immediately ride out to meet Cheddar and Jirel, accompanying them back to town, hugging them both, then Jararaka and then Finn, now a woman again, as they all return to Greenest, praising everyone's contribution with saving the townsfolk from the evil Cult of the Dragon. She then turns to the Garbage Men. "My most sincere thanks gentlemen, you have saved many innocent lives tonight, a feat worthy of a song I think." She says with a grin and a wink. "Shall we go on up to the keep and you will receive your well-deserved reward gentlemen?"She suggests, ready to ride up there.
Cheddar says little, letting the bigger folks do all their greetings and patting on the backs and the like. Instead of looking to the valley and the town, Cheddar looks in the direction of the party had come. This army, of kobolds, men, and dragon folk, had a reason they took prisoners, a greater reason then the party knows. Why this Army is in need of slaves is the bigger concern? he ponders. He pats his vest pocket. "Yes Cicero, there is something larger going on here." he replies. "Something much greater than you or I." Cheddar pauses then says. "I agree. We are not finished in this,though I wish we were."
He pauses again. "I am not sure if master would have any knowledge of these things. We can read his journal this evening and see." With that Cheddar goes silent.
As the night grows late and their small band breaks away from the actual searches, Finn eventually breathes a sigh of relief. Truth be told he had expected the Garbage Men to seize him and turn him over to the cultists as a spy before returning to Greenest alone for the promised monies there, insisting Finn had headed off alone back to his friends or some such. As they ride Finn thinks about this and wonders if he judged them wrong. Or are they just playing a longer game?
Not long after breaking away from the searches, Finn mentally pauses for a moment and dismisses their familiar, Owl, out of existance from wherever they had gotten themselves to and back into existance here, upon Finn's shoulder. Having an extra set of eyes to watch his back, and to check their trail on occasion to ensure they are not being followed, cannot hurt. Reminding the Garbage Men there is more to Finn than they've seen also doesn't seem a bad idea.
As dawn is breaking Finn is able to just make out the keep in the distance. "Looks like we made it," Finn says to their temporary companions and allows the mask they had been wearing to slip. Finn's features and shape subtley soften and change. It does not take long and more or less between glances from the Garbage Men the bard changes back to the form she had when she first entered Greenest.
"It's good to be home," she says with a smile and sends Owl up ahead to try and find the others...
"I must apologize to you boys," she says to the Garbage Men. "I misjudged you. For a moment back there I was sure you were going to turn me over to the cultists and then return here without me trying to double dip on the reward money..." Finn tries to soothe her admission with a charming smile and a shrug. "Come now! Let's see if the others are here already and let's see about getting you boys paid!"
Finn then leads the way the rest of the way into Greenest and then towards her friends.
Jararaka curses as the search party turns their attention to her direction, but thanks to the cover of the night, she manages to slip away unnoticed. She rips off the cultist cloak and dumps it on the ground without a care as she runs. She gets lost among the trees at first, but this is not the first time, and she eventually manages to find her way back following the stars and the specks of light glow from the town.
When she finally makes it back, the rest of the party hears her mumbling between pants, "I've gotten way too used to sitting on caravans and horses..." She shakes her arms and legs out, finally relaxing after this excruciatingly long evening. She makes an awkward sound of acknowledgement when praised, clearly not used to it.Seeing everyone reassemble, including the Garbage Men, no one missing, she comments, "sure am glad that worked. As much as I just want to rest, let's talk to the governor about the information they wanted, and rewards for this quest."
Jozen takes your comment in stride. "I had to consider selling you out. Ultimately... I would prefer to limit my dealings with that lot. I just got myself disentangled from a toxic relationship, you see, and those cultists remind me a little too much of 'Crazy Eyes.' That isn't to mention how they might interpret our own role in your plot up until the moment we decided to double cross you. Too many variables and the pot wasn't rich enough to push all in."
Before the group makes for the keep, the Garbage Men pause. "Given the recent raid there is like to be regional law and order types assembling here. I'd prefer someone not recognize us and look to collect on the various prices put out on us. I regret that we cannot accompany to directly meet with this Governor." He points west. "There's a little establishment outside of town and up the road that way - Noah's Mill. Once you have our 400gp, meet us there and we can complete our deal and part ways as friends."
They start to ride that direction. Jozen looks back over his shoulder one more time. "Cheat us... and I promise we will find you." He flashes a charming smile and then the Garbage Men depart for Noah's Mill.
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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
"Jozen, it's not too late to team up with the good guys you know, and believe it or not, that can be both fun and lucrative, and without the toxic relationshipes of course, just as a small perk." Tylaerys calls out after the Garbage Men. "Just consider it while you wait for us at Noah's Mill."
"You put on a really good show there Finn, I wish I could have seen it up close." She then turns and says with a grin to the changeling. "Ready to collect our reward?" She says, looking at Jirel, Jararaka, Cheddar and Finn again. The young blonde half-elf would then ride up to the keep to report to Governor Nighthill.
Finn smiles and nods and totally accepts Jozen's point and even sympathizes a bit. "Not every payday is worth the risk involved," she agrees and will chat with Jozen and the others a bit and tell a couple amusing anecdotes about her own brushes with perilous types when she pushed her luck a bit too far.
When back with the group Finn quickly recounts all she has been through and assures everyone that the Garbage Men played their roles above and beyond. At the parting of the ways Finn puts her hand over her heat and adopts a pained looking expression. "Cheat you? Us? Me?? You wound me, Jozen! What have I done to deserve such??" Finn insists. "We have been in the belly of the dragon together. We are brothers..."
Finn looks down at herself and smiles. "Well... Siblings?" She laughs and bows a goodbye. "We will see you at the Mill. We know it well. It is, after all, where we all met..."
"Me?" Finn asks pleased by the compliment. "Thanks but in truth it was Jozen who took the lead. Had to let it play out that way, play to the expectations and all... But what about you? How in the golden well did you get the prisoners out??" Finn presses for details from one and all about how things played out...
"Oh, it was easy, thanks to you and the boys."Tylaerys says with a wink and a smile. "I had some magic strength left in me so I sent off the two guards by the prisoners tent into a blissful slumber, then freeing the prisoners from their shackles and leading them out along the canyon wall. I had to use a magical distraction for the kobolds, giving them a visit from that loathsome creature Cyanwrath commanding them all to grovel, finally using a bit more of sophoric magic to deal with the kobolds in the watchtower. I realize I might have put you and the Garbage Men in a spot but I was honestly fairly confident with you and Jozen there you would simply smooth talk yourself out of the clutches of the cult. Or how did you get out?" She asks Finn with curiosity in her silvery eyes as you make your way up to the keep.
"We rode out to help look for the people who freed the prisoners, of course. There was a couple iffy moments but nothing too serious. I honestly expected our role to be a lot scarier... Who should be scared though is the young woman in chainmail they were focused on. Was she with the prisoners you freed?" Finn asks, the woman suddenly coming back to mind now that everyone was safe and all.
"The name was... Frulus? Fruntum? Something like that," Finn continues. "We weren't told why but they REALLY wanted her returned... I half expected the Garbage Men to actually look for her, a good reward was in the offering. Turns out they have more good in them than I expected."
"Yes, she was with the prisoners I freed." Tylaerys says with a nod, then turning to Cheddar and Jirel. "What happened to her? I didn't see her among those who arrived here."
"She left the main group and headed west." Cheddar says. "Or towards the west. We spotted her leaving and I followed a bit but, I didn't want to go too far from the main group, our priority was to get the main body back to Greenest." Cheddar shrugs his shoulders.
Tylaerys ponders this information for a moment and then nods. "Thinking back on what I heard in the camp I think she might have been a former leader within the cult named Frulam that somehow caught the blame for what the cult consider a failed attack on Greenest. I suppose she would have been a good source of information but I think you made the right call Cheddar, trying to force her to come back here with us, it would have been hard, maybe even impossible depending on how powerful she was. I think between us we still have a lot of information to report to the Governor, and as you said, getting the townsfolk back here safely was our priority." She says, giving Cheddar a smile and an affirmative nod.
The party returns to the Keep o' the Greenfields. Though it has been less than a full day since you left, much has changed in Greenest. Fire-destroyed buildings have been largely demolished, while less damaged structures have seen broken doors replaced and shattered windows boarded up. Everywhere this morning there is activity, as farmers from outlying settlements have flocked to the town to join the carpenters and masons in the rebuilding effort. More than a few voices are raised in discussion about the rescue and return of many prisoners.
The keep is the epicenter of all the activity. Riders come and go with letters and messages, while a dozen heavy horse with chain barding mill about the courtyard, their numbers overflowing the stable.
The red-haired dwarf, Escobert, recognizes your group as you approach. "Aye. You're back. We expected you sooner, once the prisoners came home. The Governor is upstairs with the Vigilant Eyes. He can explain, and no doubt he wishes to hear all that you learned about our enemy. Please, head up there at once."
You enter the tower and ascend to the third floor of the keep, where you find Governor Nighthill. He must have found time for proper healing, as the burns on his neck and shoulder are gone. He leans over a map, in discussion with several young men in dress chain. All of them bear a symbol on their cloaks:
Some of them have another symbol sewn onto the shoulder of their vests:
Both these symbols are easily recognizable. The mailed hand with the eye is the holy symbol of Helm, god of guardians and protectors. Meanwhile, the mailed fist gripping a sword is the symbol of the Order of the Gauntlet, a society of knights and warriors dedicated to the active pursuit and eradication of evil in the Realms.
"Ah, good." Governor Nighthill straightens up and moves to great you. "Good of you to come. Word has reached the keep that you liberated many of our sons and daughters from those vandals and brought them home safe. Greenest is once again in your debt." He shakes each of your hands in turn.
Gesturing toward the young knights, "Please, allow me to introduce these fine gentlemen. This is Sir Corwyn," he says pointing to a tall blond man with a square jaw and a silver earing. "He is the most humble Knight Brother of the Vigilant Eyes, commander of this squad of holy warriors. With him this morning are Sirs Lyle and Joffey." He goes on to explain, "One of our riders encountered them on the road. They were riding for Secomber, to participate in a harvest festival parade. Upon hearing of the attack, they diverted to Greenest along with their squires and attendants. I was just discussing with them the routes the raiders took and the probable location of the base camp."
"But please, now that you have returned, share with us what you have learned about our foe?"
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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
Tylaerys hails Escobert with a wave and a bright smile as she rides up into the keep, dismounting and giving the red-haired dwarf a hug. "We had to wait for some stragglers." She explains, briefly turning and winking at Finn. She then heads up into the tower, curious over who these Vigilant Eyes are.
As she sees Governor Nighthill she is relieved to see that he had proper healing applied to his terrible burns. She nods and smiles to the young knights as the governor introduces them. As Governor Nighthill calls upon them to report she looks to the others in the rescue team before taking a step forward. "Our focus was to free the townsfolk but we have also picked up some information on the cult. Based on scouting of their camp I would say they have between 75 and 100 kobolds and about 60 or so human cultists. Unfortunately they have also Red Wizard allies. Their camp is situated in a hidden canyon. If you consider an attack at some point we can draw a map of what we have seen. As far as I can tell the kobolds and the humans are barely cooperating but they are all fairly fanatic in their belief that dragons will rule one day." She explains, taking a brief pause. "About the leaders, there is a kobold leader called the Sky Captain but they are not currently at the camp. Then there is a young woman called Frulam that was blamed for what the cult considers a failed attack on Greenest. She is likely heading west on the plains, running from the wrath of the cult. We could consider picking her up for questioning." She says, turning and smiling to the young knights again. "Then we have the dragonborn Langdedrosa Cyanwrath that Jirel bravely fought last night..." She says, looking up at the blonde giantess with an admiration. "...who will likely take over local day-to-day command after Frulam. Finally we have one Lady Rezmir who seems to be Cyanwrath's superior. I'm sure Finn will be able to tell you more." She says, taking a step back again, looking over at the silver-tongued changeling.
Finn scowls and is reluctant to step forward but after a small delay looking for a way out of it she does. She looks over all assembled and, oddly enough, feels the pangs of strage fright. She clears her throat before she begins. Then she clears is again. Then she lets out a nervous little laugh...
"Sorry... Sorry," she finally manages, a weird grin still upon her face and her cheeks flushed.
"I'm much better performing, I swear..." she explains as she shifts her way from her left foot to her right. Then back again. Several times. "I'd be much better if I was spinning a tale of a daring adventure. I swear I could tell you stories about the battle at this keep last night that would knock your socks off... Or sing a ballad or three... I never did give any kind of military report or anything though..." Her eyes search over those assembled again a bit desperately, only calming when they pause on Tylaerys, Jirel, Cheddar or Jararaka.
"I don't know much, honestly. The numbers Ty gave you seem more or less to jive with what I would have guessed from seeing them all... I'd have put the numbers more even in the Kobold to Human ratio but I didn't exactly stop and take a census or anything. In the command tent the two in charge seemed to be a red robed wizard looking type - pointy beard and a bald, tattooed head - and some large beefy thing with white scales and black wings. It was Dragonborn-ish but no, it wasn't just a Dragonborn if it was truly that at all. Oh, and that one that fought Jirel... Langdedrosa Cyanwrath. He was there too. So maybe all three in charge?" Finn can feel this getting away from her so she takes a deep, steadying breath and holds it for a moment before letting it out slowly and continuing.
"The red robed one, the wizard? He was mid conversation when I was let in the tent. He said something like 'We shall meet again at Naerytar' to someone he was talking to with magic. Through a stone or a ruby or something. Not a ruby. No, no. It was a purple stone of some kind... And he then adressed the others there and said that she, the one he had been talking to, wants them on the road... I imagine he meant to Naerytar but..." Finn shrugs and her unsurety is obvious to all.
"The Lady Rezmir had already departed... I remember someone said that. "And Langdedrosa and the others, they were eager for information from here. From Greenest. They thing a spy infiltrated them here, or tried to maybe? They wanted information if it was the Harpers or not. If the Lord's Alliance were involved here or not. They were willing to pay..."
"Oh, hey! So yeah. If we spied for them and got info, we were to return to the same place, so they're not pulling up stakes immediately!" Finn remembers and shares in a rush. "Some are departing but some weren't. I couldn't exactly press for numbers but they did call their current location The Hatchery. It sounded like... Like that is what it really was, not just a title. You know? Could they be hatching more dragons??"
"And that is really all I can add... I am sure I could help with making a map, placing the command tent and such, but I just couldn't press on when exactly or how much of their forces were leaving to Naerytar - if that was the next location like I expect - and how many were staying at the hatchery. I'd of liked to have tried to grab some of their maps and papers for you but trust me, there were too many eyes on us... on me... in that tent..." Finn shrugs again and almost curtseys before stopping herself and nervously clearing her throat again. She backs up two spaces then turns and hurries back to the side of the others.
As Finn finishes, Tylaerys nods and smiles briefly after a report well delivered, then looking to Jirel, Cheddar and Jararaka if any of them had anything to add to the report.
(Please forgive my absence. However, thank you to you great players and DM for moving things along beautifully <3. Apologies in advance for my catch up RP fluff if it ends up a bit lengthy/redundant :3)
Earlier
The smallest of smiles pulled at Jirel's lips when Cheddar would return from his scout. Curious cat made it back. She knew he'd manage purrfectly. The warrior was glad she trusted in her instincts to stay true to her role in the mission, and thankful for his safe return. The giantess would give Cheddar a nod. "Thank you for investigating as far as you did." While their questions weren't answered at that time, Cheddar at least had a general idea of what direction she went and that satisfied her. "Good to have you back." His decision to return was a wise one, and one Jirel genuinely appreciated. Together they could ensure the safe return of their current flock.
Back at the initial reunion with the rest of the group, Jirel exhales a breath she probably wouldn't admit she was holding. She was incredibly relieved to see everyone made it back unscathed. Considering the party had split up, her goliath heart welled at the sight of the return of Tylaerys, Finn and Jararaka. At Tylaerys' approach and hug, although there was an initial pause of surprise from the open show of affection, this time the half-elf was met with a warm embrace from a strong arm and a gentle palm of the back of her head in return before she scurries off to continue to openly show her affections to Jararaka and Finn. This was something Jirel wasn't accustomed to considering such customs in her clan were frowned upon, or even forbidden. However, the giantess was learning it was quite wholesome and couldn't help but break the stone visage with a smile. Of course, not only did everyone return safely, it appeared their mission was well on it's way to success. That is, everyone except the woman in chain mail, were all accounted for. And the one thing that had Jirel guessing was that woman, but that was soon 'solved' by later discussion.
Jirel would hold herself firm when the Garbage Men would pause to address them. She remains quiet to watch body language while Jozen, Tylaerys and Finn say their piece to one another. Each party honoured their end of the agreement and with that the giantess fully intended to keep her part of the bargain. She was even considering a tip. While trust was building, some old habits die hard. The giantess didn't really have any personal reason not to trust them, but with instincts of a protector, it never hurts to keep ones guard up. She could still respect them while also understanding how they work. At their departure she gives a respectful bow of her head.
(Absolutely understand if the moment has come and gone and/or if it doesn't apply, so please ignore if so, but if I may...
I'd like to insight for any potential hint of betrayal for the exchange. Passive Insight is 11 or rolled a 17 on character sheet.)
During the group debrief Jirel listened intently to all the recounts. Even though she didn't speak, her expressions said it all. Brows would knit in concentration at all the new information while her nose scrunches in gentle concern for her allies when challenges and encounters were spoken of, even though she obviously knew they came out of it safely. Most of all, her smile was genuine and wide enough for her fangs to poke out, evidence of her pride for her companions skills, unique solutions and personal successes.
Now
Upon returning to Greenest, Jirel couldn't help but correct her posture while traveling through and witnessing the community's rebound. Once again, her giant heart wells in pride at all the work that was completed in their absence. The resilience was almost palpable as the town buzzed with activity. Hope was alive and well in Greenest. These indeed were people worth fighting for and protecting.
As the group finally comes to a stop, Jirel takes her time to dismount Widowmaker and stretch. Sure, it was a long day of riding, but in her reality, buildings and keeps, aren't always goliath size friendly spaces. It felt so good to stretch her limbs outside when she could. So she did just that even though they were asked to go up immediately. The giantess would strategically hang back to assist others dismount their horses and take them to their stables, thanking them for their service along the way. She'd continue to talk to them, and praise them, as she'd get them settled and comfortable, even completing a little health check as she went.
Soon enough the goliath would connect with the others to meet with the Governor, arriving in time to be present, but not early enough to be called upon to speak. Jirel couldn't help but smirk to herself in relief as their energetic half-elf takes the lead and calls upon Finn to fill in. She'd reach forward to give Finn a reassuring pat on the back when she lets out a nervous little laugh. Phew... that's a lot of words in front of a lot of important and respectful looking figures. It was critical to provide all the relevant data and recount it accurately. Thank the Gods Jirel could count on her companions to do the hard people skills work. She'd make note to buy them dinner.
When Tylaerys looks her way for input, Jirel couldn't help but offer a sheepish grin. "Unless yous wanna know the horses thoughts... I think you both covered it all." She'd bow her head slightly.
At Tylaerys' cue, Jararaka scratches her arm and shakes her head, not able to come with anything that's not already shared, "I can tell you this cult is probably in contact with different chromatic dragons for real, otherwise,I don't have much to add. But I can say they lost four kobolds on the way when they tried to recapture your townsfolk and caught up with me, if that helps?"
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Tylaerys:
Putting your plan into action, you realize, almost too late, that the horse cannot see as well in the darkness as you can. Aiding the beast around obstacles takes all your riding skill, and the pursuers keep pace with or without your desire to lead them on. When you decide to really push the animal and make the move to flee toward Greenest, you still have that same problem. There is a limit to how fast the horse can move in the dark in this kind of terrain. Eventually, you do pull away and leave the cultists far behind, but it is more a result of their stamina wearing out than you simply outpacing them.
In the middle of the night you reach Greenest, but have hours to wait before anyone else arrives.
Jirel and Cheddar:
With Cheddar back in the fold, you leave the chainmailed woman to her fate and the two of you are able to lead the prisoners on foot back toward Greenest. It is a much longer journey than it had been on horseback, but as the sun is rising in the eastern sky, you cross over the edge of the 'bowl' and down into the gentle valley and the town is in sight. The prisoners rejoice, some of them weeping as they sprint the last mile home.
Jararaka:
Your spell obliterates the kobolds. It also draws more torches in your direction. You scramble out of there and make your way on foot back in the direction of Greenest.
It is a long and lonely walk, and more than once you question your sense of direction, but shortly after dawn you see the fields and before you and the Keep O'the Greenfields in the distance.
Finn:
You and the Garbage Men nonchalantly guide your horses through the darkness, following the cultists as they scamper and scurry through the broken lands north of their camp. As the night grows late and the searches begin to fall back, you do not return with them, continuing north to Greenest.
It is shortly after dawn when you arrive.
The prisoners have returned to their homes and Tylaerys, Jirel and Cheddar have been together about an hour at the edge of town watching for sign, when they spot the tall lizardwoman Jararaka striding across the fields, and from another direction Finn and the Garbage Men riding solemnly toward them. At last, after a long and eventful evening, the group is reunited.
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 she realizes she is the first to reach Greenest, Tylaerys would immediately ride out to meet Cheddar and Jirel, accompanying them back to town, hugging them both, then Jararaka and then Finn, now a woman again, as they all return to Greenest, praising everyone's contribution with saving the townsfolk from the evil Cult of the Dragon. She then turns to the Garbage Men. "My most sincere thanks gentlemen, you have saved many innocent lives tonight, a feat worthy of a song I think." She says with a grin and a wink. "Shall we go on up to the keep and you will receive your well-deserved reward gentlemen?" She suggests, ready to ride up there.
Cheddar says little, letting the bigger folks do all their greetings and patting on the backs and the like. Instead of looking to the valley and the town, Cheddar looks in the direction of the party had come. This army, of kobolds, men, and dragon folk, had a reason they took prisoners, a greater reason then the party knows. Why this Army is in need of slaves is the bigger concern? he ponders.
He pats his vest pocket.
"Yes Cicero, there is something larger going on here." he replies. "Something much greater than you or I."
Cheddar pauses then says.
"I agree. We are not finished in this,though I wish we were."
He pauses again.
"I am not sure if master would have any knowledge of these things. We can read his journal this evening and see."
With that Cheddar goes silent.
As the night grows late and their small band breaks away from the actual searches, Finn eventually breathes a sigh of relief. Truth be told he had expected the Garbage Men to seize him and turn him over to the cultists as a spy before returning to Greenest alone for the promised monies there, insisting Finn had headed off alone back to his friends or some such. As they ride Finn thinks about this and wonders if he judged them wrong. Or are they just playing a longer game?
Not long after breaking away from the searches, Finn mentally pauses for a moment and dismisses their familiar, Owl, out of existance from wherever they had gotten themselves to and back into existance here, upon Finn's shoulder. Having an extra set of eyes to watch his back, and to check their trail on occasion to ensure they are not being followed, cannot hurt. Reminding the Garbage Men there is more to Finn than they've seen also doesn't seem a bad idea.
As dawn is breaking Finn is able to just make out the keep in the distance. "Looks like we made it," Finn says to their temporary companions and allows the mask they had been wearing to slip. Finn's features and shape subtley soften and change. It does not take long and more or less between glances from the Garbage Men the bard changes back to the form she had when she first entered Greenest.
"It's good to be home," she says with a smile and sends Owl up ahead to try and find the others...
"I must apologize to you boys," she says to the Garbage Men. "I misjudged you. For a moment back there I was sure you were going to turn me over to the cultists and then return here without me trying to double dip on the reward money..." Finn tries to soothe her admission with a charming smile and a shrug. "Come now! Let's see if the others are here already and let's see about getting you boys paid!"
Finn then leads the way the rest of the way into Greenest and then towards her friends.
Jararaka curses as the search party turns their attention to her direction, but thanks to the cover of the night, she manages to slip away unnoticed. She rips off the cultist cloak and dumps it on the ground without a care as she runs. She gets lost among the trees at first, but this is not the first time, and she eventually manages to find her way back following the stars and the specks of light glow from the town.
When she finally makes it back, the rest of the party hears her mumbling between pants, "I've gotten way too used to sitting on caravans and horses..." She shakes her arms and legs out, finally relaxing after this excruciatingly long evening. She makes an awkward sound of acknowledgement when praised, clearly not used to it.Seeing everyone reassemble, including the Garbage Men, no one missing, she comments, "sure am glad that worked. As much as I just want to rest, let's talk to the governor about the information they wanted, and rewards for this quest."
Finn:
Jozen takes your comment in stride. "I had to consider selling you out. Ultimately... I would prefer to limit my dealings with that lot. I just got myself disentangled from a toxic relationship, you see, and those cultists remind me a little too much of 'Crazy Eyes.' That isn't to mention how they might interpret our own role in your plot up until the moment we decided to double cross you. Too many variables and the pot wasn't rich enough to push all in."
Before the group makes for the keep, the Garbage Men pause. "Given the recent raid there is like to be regional law and order types assembling here. I'd prefer someone not recognize us and look to collect on the various prices put out on us. I regret that we cannot accompany to directly meet with this Governor." He points west. "There's a little establishment outside of town and up the road that way - Noah's Mill. Once you have our 400gp, meet us there and we can complete our deal and part ways as friends."
They start to ride that direction. Jozen looks back over his shoulder one more time. "Cheat us... and I promise we will find you." He flashes a charming smile and then the Garbage Men depart for Noah's Mill.
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
"Jozen, it's not too late to team up with the good guys you know, and believe it or not, that can be both fun and lucrative, and without the toxic relationshipes of course, just as a small perk." Tylaerys calls out after the Garbage Men. "Just consider it while you wait for us at Noah's Mill."
"You put on a really good show there Finn, I wish I could have seen it up close." She then turns and says with a grin to the changeling. "Ready to collect our reward?" She says, looking at Jirel, Jararaka, Cheddar and Finn again. The young blonde half-elf would then ride up to the keep to report to Governor Nighthill.
Finn smiles and nods and totally accepts Jozen's point and even sympathizes a bit. "Not every payday is worth the risk involved," she agrees and will chat with Jozen and the others a bit and tell a couple amusing anecdotes about her own brushes with perilous types when she pushed her luck a bit too far.
When back with the group Finn quickly recounts all she has been through and assures everyone that the Garbage Men played their roles above and beyond. At the parting of the ways Finn puts her hand over her heat and adopts a pained looking expression. "Cheat you? Us? Me?? You wound me, Jozen! What have I done to deserve such??" Finn insists. "We have been in the belly of the dragon together. We are brothers..."
Finn looks down at herself and smiles. "Well... Siblings?" She laughs and bows a goodbye. "We will see you at the Mill. We know it well. It is, after all, where we all met..."
"Me?" Finn asks pleased by the compliment. "Thanks but in truth it was Jozen who took the lead. Had to let it play out that way, play to the expectations and all... But what about you? How in the golden well did you get the prisoners out??" Finn presses for details from one and all about how things played out...
"Oh, it was easy, thanks to you and the boys." Tylaerys says with a wink and a smile. "I had some magic strength left in me so I sent off the two guards by the prisoners tent into a blissful slumber, then freeing the prisoners from their shackles and leading them out along the canyon wall. I had to use a magical distraction for the kobolds, giving them a visit from that loathsome creature Cyanwrath commanding them all to grovel, finally using a bit more of sophoric magic to deal with the kobolds in the watchtower. I realize I might have put you and the Garbage Men in a spot but I was honestly fairly confident with you and Jozen there you would simply smooth talk yourself out of the clutches of the cult. Or how did you get out?" She asks Finn with curiosity in her silvery eyes as you make your way up to the keep.
"We rode out to help look for the people who freed the prisoners, of course. There was a couple iffy moments but nothing too serious. I honestly expected our role to be a lot scarier... Who should be scared though is the young woman in chainmail they were focused on. Was she with the prisoners you freed?" Finn asks, the woman suddenly coming back to mind now that everyone was safe and all.
"The name was... Frulus? Fruntum? Something like that," Finn continues. "We weren't told why but they REALLY wanted her returned... I half expected the Garbage Men to actually look for her, a good reward was in the offering. Turns out they have more good in them than I expected."
"Yes, she was with the prisoners I freed." Tylaerys says with a nod, then turning to Cheddar and Jirel. "What happened to her? I didn't see her among those who arrived here."
"She left the main group and headed west." Cheddar says. "Or towards the west. We spotted her leaving and I followed a bit but, I didn't want to go too far from the main group, our priority was to get the main body back to Greenest."
Cheddar shrugs his shoulders.
Tylaerys ponders this information for a moment and then nods. "Thinking back on what I heard in the camp I think she might have been a former leader within the cult named Frulam that somehow caught the blame for what the cult consider a failed attack on Greenest. I suppose she would have been a good source of information but I think you made the right call Cheddar, trying to force her to come back here with us, it would have been hard, maybe even impossible depending on how powerful she was. I think between us we still have a lot of information to report to the Governor, and as you said, getting the townsfolk back here safely was our priority." She says, giving Cheddar a smile and an affirmative nod.
The party returns to the Keep o' the Greenfields. Though it has been less than a full day since you left, much has changed in Greenest. Fire-destroyed buildings have been largely demolished, while less damaged structures have seen broken doors replaced and shattered windows boarded up. Everywhere this morning there is activity, as farmers from outlying settlements have flocked to the town to join the carpenters and masons in the rebuilding effort. More than a few voices are raised in discussion about the rescue and return of many prisoners.
The keep is the epicenter of all the activity. Riders come and go with letters and messages, while a dozen heavy horse with chain barding mill about the courtyard, their numbers overflowing the stable.
The red-haired dwarf, Escobert, recognizes your group as you approach. "Aye. You're back. We expected you sooner, once the prisoners came home. The Governor is upstairs with the Vigilant Eyes. He can explain, and no doubt he wishes to hear all that you learned about our enemy. Please, head up there at once."
You enter the tower and ascend to the third floor of the keep, where you find Governor Nighthill. He must have found time for proper healing, as the burns on his neck and shoulder are gone. He leans over a map, in discussion with several young men in dress chain. All of them bear a symbol on their cloaks:
Some of them have another symbol sewn onto the shoulder of their vests:
Both these symbols are easily recognizable. The mailed hand with the eye is the holy symbol of Helm, god of guardians and protectors. Meanwhile, the mailed fist gripping a sword is the symbol of the Order of the Gauntlet, a society of knights and warriors dedicated to the active pursuit and eradication of evil in the Realms.
"Ah, good." Governor Nighthill straightens up and moves to great you. "Good of you to come. Word has reached the keep that you liberated many of our sons and daughters from those vandals and brought them home safe. Greenest is once again in your debt." He shakes each of your hands in turn.
Gesturing toward the young knights, "Please, allow me to introduce these fine gentlemen. This is Sir Corwyn," he says pointing to a tall blond man with a square jaw and a silver earing. "He is the most humble Knight Brother of the Vigilant Eyes, commander of this squad of holy warriors. With him this morning are Sirs Lyle and Joffey." He goes on to explain, "One of our riders encountered them on the road. They were riding for Secomber, to participate in a harvest festival parade. Upon hearing of the attack, they diverted to Greenest along with their squires and attendants. I was just discussing with them the routes the raiders took and the probable location of the base camp."
"But please, now that you have returned, share with us what you have learned about our foe?"
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
Tylaerys hails Escobert with a wave and a bright smile as she rides up into the keep, dismounting and giving the red-haired dwarf a hug. "We had to wait for some stragglers." She explains, briefly turning and winking at Finn. She then heads up into the tower, curious over who these Vigilant Eyes are.
As she sees Governor Nighthill she is relieved to see that he had proper healing applied to his terrible burns. She nods and smiles to the young knights as the governor introduces them. As Governor Nighthill calls upon them to report she looks to the others in the rescue team before taking a step forward. "Our focus was to free the townsfolk but we have also picked up some information on the cult. Based on scouting of their camp I would say they have between 75 and 100 kobolds and about 60 or so human cultists. Unfortunately they have also Red Wizard allies. Their camp is situated in a hidden canyon. If you consider an attack at some point we can draw a map of what we have seen. As far as I can tell the kobolds and the humans are barely cooperating but they are all fairly fanatic in their belief that dragons will rule one day." She explains, taking a brief pause. "About the leaders, there is a kobold leader called the Sky Captain but they are not currently at the camp. Then there is a young woman called Frulam that was blamed for what the cult considers a failed attack on Greenest. She is likely heading west on the plains, running from the wrath of the cult. We could consider picking her up for questioning." She says, turning and smiling to the young knights again. "Then we have the dragonborn Langdedrosa Cyanwrath that Jirel bravely fought last night..." She says, looking up at the blonde giantess with an admiration. "...who will likely take over local day-to-day command after Frulam. Finally we have one Lady Rezmir who seems to be Cyanwrath's superior. I'm sure Finn will be able to tell you more." She says, taking a step back again, looking over at the silver-tongued changeling.
Finn scowls and is reluctant to step forward but after a small delay looking for a way out of it she does. She looks over all assembled and, oddly enough, feels the pangs of strage fright. She clears her throat before she begins. Then she clears is again. Then she lets out a nervous little laugh...
"Sorry... Sorry," she finally manages, a weird grin still upon her face and her cheeks flushed.
"I'm much better performing, I swear..." she explains as she shifts her way from her left foot to her right. Then back again. Several times. "I'd be much better if I was spinning a tale of a daring adventure. I swear I could tell you stories about the battle at this keep last night that would knock your socks off... Or sing a ballad or three... I never did give any kind of military report or anything though..." Her eyes search over those assembled again a bit desperately, only calming when they pause on Tylaerys, Jirel, Cheddar or Jararaka.
"I don't know much, honestly. The numbers Ty gave you seem more or less to jive with what I would have guessed from seeing them all... I'd have put the numbers more even in the Kobold to Human ratio but I didn't exactly stop and take a census or anything. In the command tent the two in charge seemed to be a red robed wizard looking type - pointy beard and a bald, tattooed head - and some large beefy thing with white scales and black wings. It was Dragonborn-ish but no, it wasn't just a Dragonborn if it was truly that at all. Oh, and that one that fought Jirel... Langdedrosa Cyanwrath. He was there too. So maybe all three in charge?" Finn can feel this getting away from her so she takes a deep, steadying breath and holds it for a moment before letting it out slowly and continuing.
"The red robed one, the wizard? He was mid conversation when I was let in the tent. He said something like 'We shall meet again at Naerytar' to someone he was talking to with magic. Through a stone or a ruby or something. Not a ruby. No, no. It was a purple stone of some kind... And he then adressed the others there and said that she, the one he had been talking to, wants them on the road... I imagine he meant to Naerytar but..." Finn shrugs and her unsurety is obvious to all.
"The Lady Rezmir had already departed... I remember someone said that. "And Langdedrosa and the others, they were eager for information from here. From Greenest. They thing a spy infiltrated them here, or tried to maybe? They wanted information if it was the Harpers or not. If the Lord's Alliance were involved here or not. They were willing to pay..."
"Oh, hey! So yeah. If we spied for them and got info, we were to return to the same place, so they're not pulling up stakes immediately!" Finn remembers and shares in a rush. "Some are departing but some weren't. I couldn't exactly press for numbers but they did call their current location The Hatchery. It sounded like... Like that is what it really was, not just a title. You know? Could they be hatching more dragons??"
"And that is really all I can add... I am sure I could help with making a map, placing the command tent and such, but I just couldn't press on when exactly or how much of their forces were leaving to Naerytar - if that was the next location like I expect - and how many were staying at the hatchery. I'd of liked to have tried to grab some of their maps and papers for you but trust me, there were too many eyes on us... on me... in that tent..." Finn shrugs again and almost curtseys before stopping herself and nervously clearing her throat again. She backs up two spaces then turns and hurries back to the side of the others.
As Finn finishes, Tylaerys nods and smiles briefly after a report well delivered, then looking to Jirel, Cheddar and Jararaka if any of them had anything to add to the report.
(Please forgive my absence. However, thank you to you great players and DM for moving things along beautifully <3. Apologies in advance for my catch up RP fluff if it ends up a bit lengthy/redundant :3)
Earlier
The smallest of smiles pulled at Jirel's lips when Cheddar would return from his scout. Curious cat made it back. She knew he'd manage purrfectly. The warrior was glad she trusted in her instincts to stay true to her role in the mission, and thankful for his safe return. The giantess would give Cheddar a nod. "Thank you for investigating as far as you did." While their questions weren't answered at that time, Cheddar at least had a general idea of what direction she went and that satisfied her. "Good to have you back." His decision to return was a wise one, and one Jirel genuinely appreciated. Together they could ensure the safe return of their current flock.
Back at the initial reunion with the rest of the group, Jirel exhales a breath she probably wouldn't admit she was holding. She was incredibly relieved to see everyone made it back unscathed. Considering the party had split up, her goliath heart welled at the sight of the return of Tylaerys, Finn and Jararaka. At Tylaerys' approach and hug, although there was an initial pause of surprise from the open show of affection, this time the half-elf was met with a warm embrace from a strong arm and a gentle palm of the back of her head in return before she scurries off to continue to openly show her affections to Jararaka and Finn. This was something Jirel wasn't accustomed to considering such customs in her clan were frowned upon, or even forbidden. However, the giantess was learning it was quite wholesome and couldn't help but break the stone visage with a smile. Of course, not only did everyone return safely, it appeared their mission was well on it's way to success. That is, everyone except the woman in chain mail, were all accounted for. And the one thing that had Jirel guessing was that woman, but that was soon 'solved' by later discussion.
Jirel would hold herself firm when the Garbage Men would pause to address them. She remains quiet to watch body language while Jozen, Tylaerys and Finn say their piece to one another. Each party honoured their end of the agreement and with that the giantess fully intended to keep her part of the bargain. She was even considering a tip. While trust was building, some old habits die hard. The giantess didn't really have any personal reason not to trust them, but with instincts of a protector, it never hurts to keep ones guard up. She could still respect them while also understanding how they work. At their departure she gives a respectful bow of her head.
(Absolutely understand if the moment has come and gone and/or if it doesn't apply, so please ignore if so, but if I may...
I'd like to insight for any potential hint of betrayal for the exchange. Passive Insight is 11 or rolled a 17 on character sheet.)
During the group debrief Jirel listened intently to all the recounts. Even though she didn't speak, her expressions said it all. Brows would knit in concentration at all the new information while her nose scrunches in gentle concern for her allies when challenges and encounters were spoken of, even though she obviously knew they came out of it safely. Most of all, her smile was genuine and wide enough for her fangs to poke out, evidence of her pride for her companions skills, unique solutions and personal successes.
Now
Upon returning to Greenest, Jirel couldn't help but correct her posture while traveling through and witnessing the community's rebound. Once again, her giant heart wells in pride at all the work that was completed in their absence. The resilience was almost palpable as the town buzzed with activity. Hope was alive and well in Greenest. These indeed were people worth fighting for and protecting.
As the group finally comes to a stop, Jirel takes her time to dismount Widowmaker and stretch. Sure, it was a long day of riding, but in her reality, buildings and keeps, aren't always goliath size friendly spaces. It felt so good to stretch her limbs outside when she could. So she did just that even though they were asked to go up immediately. The giantess would strategically hang back to assist others dismount their horses and take them to their stables, thanking them for their service along the way. She'd continue to talk to them, and praise them, as she'd get them settled and comfortable, even completing a little health check as she went.
Soon enough the goliath would connect with the others to meet with the Governor, arriving in time to be present, but not early enough to be called upon to speak. Jirel couldn't help but smirk to herself in relief as their energetic half-elf takes the lead and calls upon Finn to fill in. She'd reach forward to give Finn a reassuring pat on the back when she lets out a nervous little laugh. Phew... that's a lot of words in front of a lot of important and respectful looking figures. It was critical to provide all the relevant data and recount it accurately. Thank the Gods Jirel could count on her companions to do the hard people skills work. She'd make note to buy them dinner.
When Tylaerys looks her way for input, Jirel couldn't help but offer a sheepish grin. "Unless yous wanna know the horses thoughts... I think you both covered it all." She'd bow her head slightly.
just an unstable unicorn.
"Oh, the Knights are here." Cheddar whispers to Jirel. "I feel so safe."
Cheddar listens to the rest report and exchanges silently.
Upon hearing about the stone, Cheddar will search his knowledge and understanding about the Arcane.
Arcana check: 18
At Tylaerys' cue, Jararaka scratches her arm and shakes her head, not able to come with anything that's not already shared, "I can tell you this cult is probably in contact with different chromatic dragons for real, otherwise, I don't have much to add. But I can say they lost four kobolds on the way when they tried to recapture your townsfolk and caught up with me, if that helps?"