OOC: Further investigation or history rolls will gain deeper knowledge/insight into the journal y'all received now the party knows what they are seeking.
Adruus and Maitland keep to their cabin and the party doesn't see or hear from them all day. Its early evening when the crew announces the sighting of land ahead! The party clamors like most of the other passengers and crew to see it, the shining city of light towering ahead of them, a flower of civilization blooming out of the vast desert that stretches as far as the eye can see ahead! Large winged animals can be seen in the skies above the city as well as distance over the encroaching desert.
Enormous pyramids are the main spectacle! They stand tall with the pinnacle of each hovering as if by magic! They shine in the setting sun as if their made of some sort of luminescent substance and are the size of mountains in the distance! Also in the skyline, the party can see gold-wrapped spires dot the landscape. The 'City of Mages' comes to mind from Maitland's tales in the journals as the party looks out over Me'at Halwa. As they continue to approach the sun sinks further into the sky towards the city itself only casting more illumination on the pyramids and spires as well as on the desert that stretches beyond, The city itself seems built like a disk the shifting sands kept back by high walls of stone. Me'at Halwa is built on a large harbor that is lined with sailing vessels of all shapes and sizes. The skies too in all directions the party can't even count the array of flying vessels great and small approaching as well as leaving!
"So, about another hour before we're clear to the land I'm afraid," Captain Nyhus calls out approaching the party at the railing and looking out at the city closer than ever before. There's a long pause as if the captain is searching for words before then continue. "Again I...I thank you for your service to the other passengers, the crew, and myself. You will always have a place on my ship should you need it," she explains as she nods at the party before departing for the wheel as Gaia joins her.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
Leela looks out across the unfamiliar landscape, marvelling at the pyramids. She squints at the winged creatures wheeling across the sky, trying to make out what kind of creatures they are. perception22
Leela reflects on what she learned from the new journal about the items they are seeking. When were they last seen? What information about location or protection has been included in the journal? History13
As they stand watching the horizon, Leela turns to Riw.
"Riw, I still have not found a use for the magical spear we retrieved from the lamia. Would you like it?"
[ooc: what was in the satchel that Nyhus gave Leela? ]
As they stand watching the horizon, Leela turns to Riw.
"Riw, I still have not found a use for the magical spear we retrieved from the lamia. Would you like it?"
[ooc: what was in the satchel that Nyhus gave Leela? ]
"Well, I'm more accustomed to one-handed weapons and shield, but this spear is no ordinary one. If you do not wish to use it I will take it. Maybe we find someone who can identify it's capabilities" - Riw takes the spear in his hands trying it's weight and balance, then stepping away from Leela he makes a few swings and spins with it - "Not bad, definitely not bad!" - closes his opinion.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Player: Snikkit Sparks - Gnome Artificier (Alchemist) 3 | Stranger Things: Hunt for the Thessalhydra Theron Pyllae - Variant Human Fighter 1 | Shell Island Riwakan Thioscale - Dragonborn Fighter (Battle Master) 5 | Adventures in the Sands: Lost Tomb of Meneptah (Group 2) DM: Derailed Dreams - Panic on the Zakhara Express
Leela gives a shallow bow to Riw. "I am glad you will be able to use it, Row. Flinkwick identified it for us - as you say it is no ordinary spear. It is a Vicious Spear with a Ruby of the War Mage attached."
OOC Leela in the satchel is spell components bag, rations, and a scroll in a language you do not understand.
"There's been a few problems over the evening," Adruus begins as the monk approaches the party, Riw and Leela, at their breakfast with a heavy expression. "It seems Yiin and Flint have decided to leave the quest," he adds then launches into a resolution to their looming problem.
It seems Arduus with the help of Captain Nyhus has selected two of the sailors from the Gazer who have agreed to join the party. They are both skilled at stealth, acquiring things, and have a keen to explore the Kingdom of Anjara. Arduus then gestures at the two female sailors to join the party. A Goliath and a human the party has seen working primarily in the cargo hold as the ship's chief mates.
OOC: Jenna and Selinae you are both good for intros! Your PC will have been filled in on the information about the quest. The basics really but will have access to the journals as well as your new companion.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
The human woman steps forward. She is wearing a wide brimmed hat with a plume of feathers, which she takes off and holds to her chest as she gives a little bow to the minotaur and dragonborn. Tight black pants are tucked into knee high leather boots and a wide leather belt holds a dagger and rapier in a scabbard.
Her hair is flaming red and worn in a long plaited braid. Her green eyes sparkle as she gives them both the once over. She replaces the hat, adjusting it, before smiling at them "Jenna....at your service!"
The human woman steps forward. She is wearing a wide brimmed hat with a plume of feathers, which she takes off and holds to her chest as she gives a little bow to the minotaur and dragonborn. Tight black pants are tucked into knee high leather boots and a wide leather belt holds a dagger and rapier in a scabbard.
Her hair is flaming red and worn in a long plaited braid. Her green eyes sparkle as she gives them both the once over. She replaces the hat, adjusting it, before smiling at them "Jenna....at your service!"
The goliath behind Jenna is a little more reserved, her long lanky form clad in cutoff coveralls, rather inconguously embroidered with jasmine flowers and small blue wrens, she self conciously tugs on one of her braids.
" Pleased to meetcha, I'm Sel....Selinae.......mostly they just calls me Stretch......or Duck.......cos.....", she points at a bruise on her forehead.
Leela smiles gravely at the two new members of their expedition, giving each a nod in turn. "Thank you for joining us. We can certainly use your assistance. I am Leela, cleric of the goddess Selune. It is my responsibility to keep you safe on this journey."
She holds out the scroll she found in the lamia's bag. "Does anyone know this language? Do you have any idea what this scroll might be?"
Selinae reaches out to take the scroll and shows it to Jenna, " Unless its in Giant I'm not gonna be much use. never could get my tongue or eyes round others no matter how much Mum and Dad tried."
Jenna chuckles, having seen the Goliath bang their head more than once. She glances at the scroll. “If it’s goblin we’re good….don’t ask!” She adds the last bit with a shrug
A weirdly purple colored dragonborn steps forward, he holds a spear in his hands, a shield and a morningstar is on his back. "Riw here, nice to meet you! We certainly need any help for everything coming"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Player: Snikkit Sparks - Gnome Artificier (Alchemist) 3 | Stranger Things: Hunt for the Thessalhydra Theron Pyllae - Variant Human Fighter 1 | Shell Island Riwakan Thioscale - Dragonborn Fighter (Battle Master) 5 | Adventures in the Sands: Lost Tomb of Meneptah (Group 2) DM: Derailed Dreams - Panic on the Zakhara Express
"Maitland is...no longer conscious, " Adruus Zydus then drops the next bomb of the day onto the party. Hus tone is sorrowful but he quickly composes himself. "We must get them to the Barakah-Set family with haste as secretly as possible. I...you will have letters of introduction to the council allowing travelers into Me'at Halwa. I persuaded Maitland to write a letter of explanation and recommendation of the party to complete thier task for the Barakah-Set family. I will remain with Maitland in Me'at Halwa. I'm afraid you will need to hire a local guide to get you to Dendarah," he explains his expression somber. "I wish...I wish we would have tried to return to Anjara sooner, " the monk says leaving the party to get acquainted before landing in Me'at Halwa.
Zydus disappears below-deck leaving the party to make plans while entrusting the letters to Leela.
As their hands touch exchanging the letters, Leela grasps Zydus' hand to offer sympathy. "You have done what you can, and are a good friend to them. Let that be a comfort to you during this time."
Leela stows the letters safely in her satchel, before spending a moment in prayer to Selune to ask for an easing of Maitland's pain.
She turns to the group. "We must make haste. Completing this quest may give the Professor some peace, even if they have moved into the goddess's embrace."
[OOC - were any of the others able to read the lamia's scroll?]
As the monk deliver his news, Jenna stands quietly with that semi-polite expression of a crew member. As he walks away she groans "Well, that doesn't sound good."
But after a second or two, she turns to Riw and Leela "I'm sorry....is this Maitland a friend of your's? Or were you just contracted for the mission?"
Leela smiles gently at Jenna, her liquid brown eyes downcast and her soft ears drooping slightly. "Our acquaintance has been of short duration and merely a business arrangement, but it is my life's work to prevent suffering to any person or creature. I grieve that I have been unable to channel the goddess's mercy to bring the curse on the professor to an end."
Riw's eyes grows wide with concern as he heard the news. He lets out a low growl, his fists clenched in frustration as he struggled to come to terms with the situation. He feels a sense of helplessness, as there is little he can do to help Maitland in this moment. "I swore Maitland to protect everyone in his team, we didn't even reach Me'at Halwa and I already failed, it's unacceptable!" - he is visibly angry at himself - "We must hurry and do everything in our power to turn this thing back!"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Player: Snikkit Sparks - Gnome Artificier (Alchemist) 3 | Stranger Things: Hunt for the Thessalhydra Theron Pyllae - Variant Human Fighter 1 | Shell Island Riwakan Thioscale - Dragonborn Fighter (Battle Master) 5 | Adventures in the Sands: Lost Tomb of Meneptah (Group 2) DM: Derailed Dreams - Panic on the Zakhara Express
Jenna pulls out a chair and sits down at the table. She crosses her long booted legs.
"Don't beat yourselves up. Maitland was cursed before you even met him, it wasn't in your power to protect him from that. We have to look forward now and fulfil his mission."
Leela nods slowly at Jenna's words, still looking downcast. "I... I understand this, but my heart still grieves." She sits heavily on the other side of the table.
"Has the captain any word on how long before we can leave the ship? This latest turn has given me a heartier appetite for being on the move. Is there much the rest of you need to accomplish in Me'at Helwa before we can be away?"
Just as Leela asks about landing she recalls the captain saying it would be about an hour. It's now early evening as the ship prepares to disembark it's passengers and cargo. It's a quick turnaround. The ship will be docked for 3 days before returning to Tal’Dorei and the city Emon where Maitland recruited the original party.
OOC no one here seems to be able to decipher the language of the scroll.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
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OOC: Further investigation or history rolls will gain deeper knowledge/insight into the journal y'all received now the party knows what they are seeking.
Adruus and Maitland keep to their cabin and the party doesn't see or hear from them all day. Its early evening when the crew announces the sighting of land ahead! The party clamors like most of the other passengers and crew to see it, the shining city of light towering ahead of them, a flower of civilization blooming out of the vast desert that stretches as far as the eye can see ahead! Large winged animals can be seen in the skies above the city as well as distance over the encroaching desert.
Enormous pyramids are the main spectacle! They stand tall with the pinnacle of each hovering as if by magic! They shine in the setting sun as if their made of some sort of luminescent substance and are the size of mountains in the distance! Also in the skyline, the party can see gold-wrapped spires dot the landscape. The 'City of Mages' comes to mind from Maitland's tales in the journals as the party looks out over Me'at Halwa. As they continue to approach the sun sinks further into the sky towards the city itself only casting more illumination on the pyramids and spires as well as on the desert that stretches beyond, The city itself seems built like a disk the shifting sands kept back by high walls of stone. Me'at Halwa is built on a large harbor that is lined with sailing vessels of all shapes and sizes. The skies too in all directions the party can't even count the array of flying vessels great and small approaching as well as leaving!
"So, about another hour before we're clear to the land I'm afraid," Captain Nyhus calls out approaching the party at the railing and looking out at the city closer than ever before. There's a long pause as if the captain is searching for words before then continue. "Again I...I thank you for your service to the other passengers, the crew, and myself. You will always have a place on my ship should you need it," she explains as she nods at the party before departing for the wheel as Gaia joins her.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
Leela looks out across the unfamiliar landscape, marvelling at the pyramids. She squints at the winged creatures wheeling across the sky, trying to make out what kind of creatures they are. perception 22
Leela reflects on what she learned from the new journal about the items they are seeking. When were they last seen? What information about location or protection has been included in the journal? History 13
As they stand watching the horizon, Leela turns to Riw.
"Riw, I still have not found a use for the magical spear we retrieved from the lamia. Would you like it?"
[ooc: what was in the satchel that Nyhus gave Leela? ]
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine
"Well, I'm more accustomed to one-handed weapons and shield, but this spear is no ordinary one. If you do not wish to use it I will take it. Maybe we find someone who can identify it's capabilities" - Riw takes the spear in his hands trying it's weight and balance, then stepping away from Leela he makes a few swings and spins with it - "Not bad, definitely not bad!" - closes his opinion.
Player:
Snikkit Sparks - Gnome Artificier (Alchemist) 3 | Stranger Things: Hunt for the Thessalhydra
Theron Pyllae - Variant Human Fighter 1 | Shell Island
Riwakan Thioscale - Dragonborn Fighter (Battle Master) 5 | Adventures in the Sands: Lost Tomb of Meneptah (Group 2)
DM:
Derailed Dreams - Panic on the Zakhara Express
Leela gives a shallow bow to Riw. "I am glad you will be able to use it, Row. Flinkwick identified it for us - as you say it is no ordinary spear. It is a Vicious Spear with a Ruby of the War Mage attached."
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine
OOC Leela in the satchel is spell components bag, rations, and a scroll in a language you do not understand.
"There's been a few problems over the evening," Adruus begins as the monk approaches the party, Riw and Leela, at their breakfast with a heavy expression. "It seems Yiin and Flint have decided to leave the quest," he adds then launches into a resolution to their looming problem.
It seems Arduus with the help of Captain Nyhus has selected two of the sailors from the Gazer who have agreed to join the party. They are both skilled at stealth, acquiring things, and have a keen to explore the Kingdom of Anjara. Arduus then gestures at the two female sailors to join the party. A Goliath and a human the party has seen working primarily in the cargo hold as the ship's chief mates.
OOC: Jenna and Selinae you are both good for intros! Your PC will have been filled in on the information about the quest. The basics really but will have access to the journals as well as your new companion.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
The human woman steps forward. She is wearing a wide brimmed hat with a plume of feathers, which she takes off and holds to her chest as she gives a little bow to the minotaur and dragonborn. Tight black pants are tucked into knee high leather boots and a wide leather belt holds a dagger and rapier in a scabbard.
Her hair is flaming red and worn in a long plaited braid. Her green eyes sparkle as she gives them both the once over. She replaces the hat, adjusting it, before smiling at them "Jenna....at your service!"
The goliath behind Jenna is a little more reserved, her long lanky form clad in cutoff coveralls, rather inconguously embroidered with jasmine flowers and small blue wrens, she self conciously tugs on one of her braids.
" Pleased to meetcha, I'm Sel....Selinae.......mostly they just calls me Stretch......or Duck.......cos.....", she points at a bruise on her forehead.
Leela smiles gravely at the two new members of their expedition, giving each a nod in turn. "Thank you for joining us. We can certainly use your assistance. I am Leela, cleric of the goddess Selune. It is my responsibility to keep you safe on this journey."
She holds out the scroll she found in the lamia's bag. "Does anyone know this language? Do you have any idea what this scroll might be?"
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine
Selinae reaches out to take the scroll and shows it to Jenna, " Unless its in Giant I'm not gonna be much use. never could get my tongue or eyes round others no matter how much Mum and Dad tried."
Jenna chuckles, having seen the Goliath bang their head more than once.
She glances at the scroll. “If it’s goblin we’re good….don’t ask!” She adds the last bit with a shrug
A weirdly purple colored dragonborn steps forward, he holds a spear in his hands, a shield and a morningstar is on his back.
"Riw here, nice to meet you! We certainly need any help for everything coming"
Player:
Snikkit Sparks - Gnome Artificier (Alchemist) 3 | Stranger Things: Hunt for the Thessalhydra
Theron Pyllae - Variant Human Fighter 1 | Shell Island
Riwakan Thioscale - Dragonborn Fighter (Battle Master) 5 | Adventures in the Sands: Lost Tomb of Meneptah (Group 2)
DM:
Derailed Dreams - Panic on the Zakhara Express
"Maitland is...no longer conscious, " Adruus Zydus then drops the next bomb of the day onto the party. Hus tone is sorrowful but he quickly composes himself. "We must get them to the Barakah-Set family with haste as secretly as possible. I...you will have letters of introduction to the council allowing travelers into Me'at Halwa. I persuaded Maitland to write a letter of explanation and recommendation of the party to complete thier task for the Barakah-Set family. I will remain with Maitland in Me'at Halwa. I'm afraid you will need to hire a local guide to get you to Dendarah," he explains his expression somber. "I wish...I wish we would have tried to return to Anjara sooner, " the monk says leaving the party to get acquainted before landing in Me'at Halwa.
Zydus disappears below-deck leaving the party to make plans while entrusting the letters to Leela.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
As their hands touch exchanging the letters, Leela grasps Zydus' hand to offer sympathy. "You have done what you can, and are a good friend to them. Let that be a comfort to you during this time."
Leela stows the letters safely in her satchel, before spending a moment in prayer to Selune to ask for an easing of Maitland's pain.
She turns to the group. "We must make haste. Completing this quest may give the Professor some peace, even if they have moved into the goddess's embrace."
[OOC - were any of the others able to read the lamia's scroll?]
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine
As the monk deliver his news, Jenna stands quietly with that semi-polite expression of a crew member. As he walks away she groans "Well, that doesn't sound good."
But after a second or two, she turns to Riw and Leela "I'm sorry....is this Maitland a friend of your's? Or were you just contracted for the mission?"
Sel looked uncomfortable as the dire news was delivered, she hadn't had much to do with the old one but she certainly didn't wish them any ill.
Leela smiles gently at Jenna, her liquid brown eyes downcast and her soft ears drooping slightly. "Our acquaintance has been of short duration and merely a business arrangement, but it is my life's work to prevent suffering to any person or creature. I grieve that I have been unable to channel the goddess's mercy to bring the curse on the professor to an end."
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine
Riw's eyes grows wide with concern as he heard the news. He lets out a low growl, his fists clenched in frustration as he struggled to come to terms with the situation. He feels a sense of helplessness, as there is little he can do to help Maitland in this moment.
"I swore Maitland to protect everyone in his team, we didn't even reach Me'at Halwa and I already failed, it's unacceptable!" - he is visibly angry at himself - "We must hurry and do everything in our power to turn this thing back!"
Player:
Snikkit Sparks - Gnome Artificier (Alchemist) 3 | Stranger Things: Hunt for the Thessalhydra
Theron Pyllae - Variant Human Fighter 1 | Shell Island
Riwakan Thioscale - Dragonborn Fighter (Battle Master) 5 | Adventures in the Sands: Lost Tomb of Meneptah (Group 2)
DM:
Derailed Dreams - Panic on the Zakhara Express
Jenna pulls out a chair and sits down at the table. She crosses her long booted legs.
"Don't beat yourselves up. Maitland was cursed before you even met him, it wasn't in your power to protect him from that. We have to look forward now and fulfil his mission."
Leela nods slowly at Jenna's words, still looking downcast. "I... I understand this, but my heart still grieves." She sits heavily on the other side of the table.
"Has the captain any word on how long before we can leave the ship? This latest turn has given me a heartier appetite for being on the move. Is there much the rest of you need to accomplish in Me'at Helwa before we can be away?"
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine
OOC Maitland goes by they/them pronouns
Just as Leela asks about landing she recalls the captain saying it would be about an hour. It's now early evening as the ship prepares to disembark it's passengers and cargo. It's a quick turnaround. The ship will be docked for 3 days before returning to Tal’Dorei and the city Emon where Maitland recruited the original party.
OOC no one here seems to be able to decipher the language of the scroll.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.