Marsinda takes the sword and inspects it. As she does so another dwarf, younger with spectacles arrives, puffing as if rushing. "Ah, Master Orin Hammergold," says Marsinda, not looking at the new arrival. "Not interfering with your personal life I hope. This is Grimbald Squirrelking, finder of my uncle's remains."
Orin raises his eyebrows a little at Grimbald's uncoventional name. He nods and makes a polite greeting. Orin pulls out a scroll and quill and begins writing. Grimbald supposes him to be a secretary or some such.
"Thank you," Marsinda says to Grimbald. "I will keep the sword. You have already told me from your story you found the scrolls about his work and could identify what they were about - I am not asking for these back as I understand you may have an interest in this topic. Just know if you were wanting to sell them I am sure the Grand Library would buy them, or even be grateful for a chance to copy them. It might be good to have that information in more than one place."
Marsinda talks to the priest and Orin and they make plans for interring the remains of Tholarn Goldspinner in the catacombs below in the family crypts. A small ceremony would be held in... Marsinda looks at Orin who consults another scroll. "Ahh..three days time, at highsun," he says.
"Just so," says Marsinda. "Grimbald, you are welcome to attend the funeral rites of my uncle," Marsinda announces. Orin makes a note of this. "If you are staying at Varda's inn I daresay you could arrive with her?" Varda nods. "Orin, give Grimbald a pass."
Orin reaches into his bag and pulls out an iron bracelet with dwarven runes indicating the wearer is a trusted ally of the Trade Guild.
"It won't get you everywhere, but it will get into some places only Trade Guild members are allowed to go," the young dwarf says.
Varda and Grimbald leave the temple, leaving Marsinda to consult with the priest and Orin.
"I'm at Rondald's Inn," says Grimbald. "I wasn't planning on staying long and the Gate Ward seemed like the cheapest place for an overnight stay."
Varda screws up her nose. "Ugh, poor you. Go grab your stuff and come stay with me at the Pony. No charge."
Grimbald will have free room and board at the Coach and Pony Inn. Does he want to do anything else in Hammerfast while he is there?
He could:
go look at the Gate Market in the Gate Ward - poorer merchants from all over the Vale set up stalls here.
go see Trade Boulevard in the Trade Ward where legend says the trees here repelled the axes of orc invaders and made the blades bounce back on the orcs, felling them. They are apparently now tended by a ghost.
go see the Trade Spire in the Trade Ward where Trade Guild members conduct business with representatives of every other settlement, mercantile organisation, and noble family in the Nentire Vale. Only Trade Guild members are allowed here, but Grimbald's new bracelet will allow access.
go to the Hidden Coin in the Trade Ward, a gambling house, but only for the rich. It costs 50sp just to get in, although you get 50sp of gambling chips for the entry fee.
see the House of Memory in the Lore Ward - a half ruined tower with a ghostly sage of history.
see The Grand Library in the Lore Ward, the largest collection of books in the Nentire Vale.
see The Temple of Ioun (god of knowledge, skill, and prophecy) - the gnome High Priest of Ioun invites adventurers to share what they have seen in their travels and has been known to hound them with questions for hours. Word has it he desperately wants to question anyone who has been swallowed by a purple worm (and survived obviously).
go to the Oakhall Theatre in the Lore Ward where the tiefling Xerrex puts on elaborate shows.
go see Idara the druid in her tower, which Grimbald and Varda passed by earlier.
have your fortune told at Helka's House of Fortune in the Lore Ward, by a woman skilled in divination.
The river trip was mostly uneventful until the river came under the canopy of the Harken Forest. Then there was more to see on the riverbank and the water. A few big fish were seen - or rather just the backs of them, a box was also seen, half floating. Sandy declined to take a closer look, stating it was best to leave things alone in the Harken Forest. On the bank RL spied an overgrown tombstone. Esa was about to fly over and investigate until Sandy told them that legend had it that the tombstone was actually a mimic. He had never stopped to check. Later they passed two elves fishing on the river bank. They did not return the halflings' greetings and watched the boat go past with hard eyes and stony faces.
"And here I thought dwarves were the masters of dour expressions," said Esa, doing her best to give them an equally hard stare back but perhaps looking more like she was constipated.
Soon Sandy announced they were at Drith's location. Here the river edges were more swampy and mosquitos and other insects buzzed happy, in eager anticipation of fairy and shifter blood. A solid raft was being poled out by two bullywug crew. One of the frog folk was carrying one of the owl medallions that the bullywug champion Ugglor had. It allowed the bullywug to speak to the halflings. They did not seem happy that Esa and RL were coming, as well as the supplies. Three crates were lowered to the raft and the bullywugs handed over a bag of coins. On a whim, Esa asked to see the coins, and was surprised to see some old silver and copper coins with a dragon on one side. These were not standard currency, and Esa was curious as to where the coins had come from.
The raft made it to the shore, and Drith was waiting for them. He towered over them, one of the biggest dragonborn they had ever seen, not that they had seen too many to be fair. His scales were a dark green and he was broad of shoulder with thick limbs. Despite this he was dressed as a druid or spellcaster might be, in a cloth robe decorated with swamp flowers, and carried a gnarled staff.
Esa looks at him, and might be about to say something inappropriate.
Grimbald's heart takes him to the Trade Boulevard to investigate trees that can repel the axes of orcs. Grimbald's head tells him to then to go to the Trade Spire, in search of an opportunity to improve trade, he will seek out any nobles from the Nentir Vale.
The raft made it to the shore, and Drith was waiting for them. He towered over them, one of the biggest dragonborn they had ever seen, not that they had seen too many to be fair. His scales were a dark green and he was broad of shoulder with thick limbs. Despite this he was dressed as a druid or spellcaster might be, in a cloth robe decorated with swamp flowers, and carried a gnarled staff.
Esa looks at him, and might be about to say something inappropriate.
Actions?
RL will do his best to give a good impression, stand up straight with shoulders back, that sort of thing. Too late he realises he should have paid some attention to his appearance and hair while on the boat. He will sigh then give a smile and a courtly bow as taught by Grimbald towards Drith. "Hello there Drith. Its a pleasure to meet you, I am Rustling Leaves and this is Esa, we are some of the delvers that recently cleared the Iron Circle out of Harken. We heard in town that you were having some problems with druids from the Harken Heart and we thought we would come past and see if we could help and maybe you could help us in return."
Drith looks like he was going to be somewhat unwelcoming, but hearing RL's words he seems to have a change in heart. His great green eyes with a cat like slit keep shifting to take in Esa's tattoos.
His voice is deep. "Then welcome to my temporary home. If you are the delvers who helped send the Iron Circle back with their tails between their legs then maybe we can help each other. I do have some problems with Harken's Heart, they attack us sporadically, usually by sending us a horde of twig blights. While they do not bother me personally, they have injured, even killed, some of my bullywug helpers. I'm not sure what could be done about that, but if something could be, it would make my life easier." Drith gestures up the hill towards some ruins covered by vegetation. "Come and see my home, and be welcome, will you eat? Oh do not be concerned, I have no fey powers over anyone who eats my food."
There are several ruins of buildings here in the forest overlooking the river. RL and Esa realise this must have been a community at one time. Drith orders the bullywugs to prepare food for guests - "I'm going to assume you don't like swamp weed, bugs, and small frogs like the bullywugs," Drith says - and he gives the pair a tour.
"One ruin has been explored completely," the dragonborn explains, "this one" - a low building not much more than piles of rocks with bullywugs disappearing into a hole in an exposed stone floor - "is being explored. Another back there appears to have some undead, so we have blocked it off for now until someone" - he gives Esa and RL a look - "can help me with this problem as well."
Grimbald's heart takes him to the Trade Boulevard to investigate trees that can repel the axes of orcs. Grimbald's head tells him to then to go to the Trade Spire, in search of an opportunity to improve trade, he will seek out any nobles from the Nentir Vale.
Grimbald's Story
A number of leafy trees line the streets of Trade Boulevard. Grimbald wanders around looking at the trees which seem nothing special. He does encounter a cold spot near one tree, which he thinks is odd.
A voice says in Grimbald's ear "Will you stop waving your hands about in my innards!"
A ghost of a dwarf materialises in front of Grimbald, and it seems Grimbald's hand is inside the ghost. The ghost looks at Grimbald with one eyebrow raised.
Grimbald steps back in surprise, and takes a moment to compose himself. My apologies, please and thank you. I am Grimbald Squirrelking, a pleasure to meet you. I would be pleased to know your name, and your role here amongst the trees. You see, I love trees.
"Do you?" said the ghost, smiling. He looks like a standard dwarf, dressed in robes and carrying a bag. He seems average in just about every way, including an average beard. Totally average. Other than being pale and transluscent.
"I am Telg and I tend to these trees," says the ghost, gesturing unnecessarily at the closest tree. "Most people who know of me think that I fade away during the day, but I just choose to remain invisible. It stops people interacting with me while I do what I do and you'd be surprised at the things I hear when people think they are alone."
The ghost Telg looks around at the trees. "I know it is part of being a ghost, but I am compelled - happily so - to tend the trees because this is where I died during the orc invasion. These trees are important. Legend has it that they will wither and die only on the eve of Hammerfast's destruction."
"Squirrels have taught me the value of trees. They have given me food, shelter, solace. The branches and leaves have hidden me from harm, give me a vantage over a battle, and provide me with cover greater than any armour I have found." He lowers his voice and glances sideways in case others are listening "I swear I can almost hear their voices sometimes". Is it true these trees withstood the orc axe?"
Drith looks like he was going to be somewhat unwelcoming, but hearing RL's words he seems to have a change in heart. His great green eyes with a cat like slit keep shifting to take in Esa's tattoos.
His voice is deep. "Then welcome to my temporary home. If you are the delvers who helped send the Iron Circle back with their tails between their legs then maybe we can help each other. I do have some problems with Harken's Heart, they attack us sporadically, usually by sending us a horde of twig blights. While they do not bother me personally, they have injured, even killed, some of my bullywug helpers. I'm not sure what could be done about that, but if something could be, it would make my life easier." Drith gestures up the hill towards some ruins covered by vegetation. "Come and see my home, and be welcome, will you eat? Oh do not be concerned, I have no fey powers over anyone who eats my food."
There are several ruins of buildings here in the forest overlooking the river. RL and Esa realise this must have been a community at one time. Drith orders the bullywugs to prepare food for guests - "I'm going to assume you don't like swamp weed, bugs, and small frogs like the bullywugs," Drith says - and he gives the pair a tour.
"One ruin has been explored completely," the dragonborn explains, "this one" - a low building not much more than piles of rocks with bullywugs disappearing into a hole in an exposed stone floor - "is being explored. Another back there appears to have some undead, so we have blocked it off for now until someone" - he gives Esa and RL a look - "can help me with this problem as well."
We can help with undead once we get the rest of our party together. We came partly because we heard you were in trouble and partly because we heard you have a wonderous item that can restore wounds as if they were never inflicted. Can you tell me how you came to have the bullywugs working for you? we had some trouble with one of their leaders a while ago?
"Squirrels have taught me the value of trees. They have given me food, shelter, solace. The branches and leaves have hidden me from harm, give me a vantage over a battle, and provide me with cover greater than any armour I have found." He lowers his voice and glances sideways in case others are listening "I swear I can almost hear their voices sometimes". Is it true these trees withstood the orc axe?"
Grimbald's Story:
"Yes... err.. and no," Telg smiled. "The trees were not even touched by the axes, when the orcs tried the axe blades rebounded and smacked the orcs in the head, fatally for the most part. But it wasn't the trees, it was because these orcs had been cursed. There's a druid living here by the name of Idara - it was her grandmother, also a druid, who put the curse on any orc who harmed a tree. It's said the power of the curse drained her, because the orcs wouldn't stop trying. Orcs are stubborn. I know, there's an orc ghost I pretty much have to fight off each night because of an oath he's sworn. He's so stubborn I'm afraid he might succeed one day, he's a ghost after all."
We can help with undead once we get the rest of our party together. We came partly because we heard you were in trouble and partly because we heard you have a wonderous item that can restore wounds as if they were never inflicted. Can you tell me how you came to have the bullywugs working for you? we had some trouble with one of their leaders a while ago?
RL and Esa's Story:
Drith's eyes look at RL for a moment and you get a sense he is weighing his options. Then he speaks in that deep voice of his.
"I offered the bullywugs some organisation, some leadership. They are simple but have their own culture and respect strength. Gloorpk is the leader you are referring to. He and his tribe are here too. Uggloor is now the chief of the tribe, and they are better off here, I think they are anyway. They definitely would be if it wasn't for the twig blights coming at us every couple of weeks.
"As for wonderous items that restore wounds, I'm assuming you want that eye fixed? We found some relics - artifacts that have a one-time ability to cast regeneration magic. Sadly I have used the two that we found, helping my bullywug friends, however I know there are more down where we stirred up the undead. My poor bullywugs would get slaughtered, they are not really delvers and don't have the kind of thinking necessary for that kind of work. If you bring your colleagues back with you and clear out the undead, then I will split any more of these regeneration relics with you. But, and I do not wish to be rude, however my experience with mercenary types is that sometimes they can get greedy, I do require you not to claim any other treasure that you find. Although I am open to trade, after I have catalogued all items taken from the site."
"So what is this place, or rather what was it?" asked Esa, looking at the stonework. "This is not elf or dwarf work."
"Ah, good observation," replies Drith. "No, this was once a community of dragonborn, under the banner of the Arkhosian Empire, and probably was existing here maybe 2000 years ago, hence the poor state of the buildings. The Arkhosian Empire became very adept at magic and war. They would have cleared this land, but the community fell - I would say a casualty of the war with the tieflings of the Bael Turath Empire - and the Harken Forest reclaimed the area."
Drith pauses, and then looks directly at Esa.
"I have some small ability with arcane spells," he says, "although primal magic is what I grew up with. Are your tattoos your... spell book? I have never heard of such a thing, but I recognise the writing."
"We can have a chat about that later if you like!" said Esa. "I love to talk about magic and theory and find new forms and types of magic."
"Well, so do I," said Drith, grinning and showing far, far too many big teeth. "I shall look forward to our discussion. Ahh, here is your food."
A bullywug appeared with fruit and fish fillets. The fish appeared to be a little overcooked, but not too much. They were served on big leaves. Drith was also served a big pile of fish fillets, but his were raw.
"Do you have any other questions?" Drith asked, then popped several fillets into his mouth and chewed them, making an obvious effort to not chew with his mouth open.
"How did you find this place?" asked Esa, cutting up some fruit and popping small bits into her mouth.
"I came by a map that showed me its location," said Drith after swallowing another stack of fillets. A third pale eyelid flicked horizontally across his eyes. RL had seen many animals with that feature, especially those that blinked rarely. "I was very excited, as you already know I am interested in historical sites, and of course everyone likes magic treasure and normal treasure too I suppose. I just had to get some help and some bullywugs were already here. I just had to talk them into it."
Esa cocks her head, remembering Augustin's story about meeting two dragonborn Dythan's Legion soldiers in Albridge who were looking for two of their scouts who went missing after finding a map of Arkhosian ruins in Harken Wood. She opens her mouth to ask about this, then closes it again, conscious they are in the power of this being whose morals and inclinations are unknown to her. She decides to talk about this later with RL on the way home.
"Squirrels have taught me the value of trees. They have given me food, shelter, solace. The branches and leaves have hidden me from harm, give me a vantage over a battle, and provide me with cover greater than any armour I have found." He lowers his voice and glances sideways in case others are listening "I swear I can almost hear their voices sometimes". Is it true these trees withstood the orc axe?"
Grimbald's Story:
"Yes... err.. and no," Telg smiled. "The trees were not even touched by the axes, when the orcs tried the axe blades rebounded and smacked the orcs in the head, fatally for the most part. But it wasn't the trees, it was because these orcs had been cursed. There's a druid living here by the name of Idara - it was her grandmother, also a druid, who put the curse on any orc who harmed a tree. It's said the power of the curse drained her, because the orcs wouldn't stop trying. Orcs are stubborn. I know, there's an orc ghost I pretty much have to fight off each night because of an oath he's sworn. He's so stubborn I'm afraid he might succeed one day, he's a ghost after all."
"Hmmm, has no one bothered to help you with this orc ghost? Surely we could enlist some help. Apart from his oath, what do you know of him? I hear the orcs ar peaceful here now, maybe even they would want to see him move on?"
RL turns in early, sleeping in a tree, and Drith and Esa talk about magic, spellcasting, the crafting of magic items, and spellbooks well into the night. Drith indicates that he sleeps in a large, hollowed out tree and heads there after bidding her good night when Esa starts to yawn.
In the cold morning there is a mist seeping through the forest from the river. The heroes have a breakfast looking similar to their dinner the night before, Drith acknowledging that unless one wants to eat what the bullywugs eat - and he says to trust him that Esa and RL do not - there is not a lot of variety of food available here. Drith offers an amulet to RL and Esa, in the shape of an owl. He says when activated it will cast tongues or comprehend languages. It does require attunement.
"Squirrels have taught me the value of trees. They have given me food, shelter, solace. The branches and leaves have hidden me from harm, give me a vantage over a battle, and provide me with cover greater than any armour I have found." He lowers his voice and glances sideways in case others are listening "I swear I can almost hear their voices sometimes". Is it true these trees withstood the orc axe?"
Grimbald's Story:
"Yes... err.. and no," Telg smiled. "The trees were not even touched by the axes, when the orcs tried the axe blades rebounded and smacked the orcs in the head, fatally for the most part. But it wasn't the trees, it was because these orcs had been cursed. There's a druid living here by the name of Idara - it was her grandmother, also a druid, who put the curse on any orc who harmed a tree. It's said the power of the curse drained her, because the orcs wouldn't stop trying. Orcs are stubborn. I know, there's an orc ghost I pretty much have to fight off each night because of an oath he's sworn. He's so stubborn I'm afraid he might succeed one day, he's a ghost after all."
"Hmmm, has no one bothered to help you with this orc ghost? Surely we could enlist some help. Apart from his oath, what do you know of him? I hear the orcs ar peaceful here now, maybe even they would want to see him move on?"
Grimbald's Story
Telg looks thoughtful. "Well, the oath is part of the problem. Kralick - that's the orc ghost - has sworn to either fell a tree or find and shatter his axe in revenge for its betrayal. He was one of the few orcs who did not die from his rebounding axe. He went off tomb looting after that, no doubt trailing blood everywhere. Sadly his axe is in an inaccessible place - The Iron Tomb, where he fell. It's in this same ward, just down there and turn right," Telg points to the north end of the Trade Boulevard.
"I can see you have questions. Let me tell you about The Iron Tomb. First thing you need to know - you probably do already - is that the tombs that remain intact are legally off-limits. The town guard patrols the necropolis of Hammerfast and anyone caught looting existing tombs faces a death sentence. That doesn't stop some thieves, of course, and rumours abound of tombs that were looted by thieves despite the vigilance of the town guard. But there is a loophole - tombs that have already been opened are fair game, but not everyone knows this. And the Iron Tomb has been cracked before. But wait.." Telg holds up a finger. "Before you go charging off to The Iron Tomb you need to know the rules about this particular tomb."
"The Iron Tomb was different - and still is different," Telg continued. "because it houses the paladins of Moradin. They rose and slaughtered the orcs - including Kralick - that troubled their sleep. When we returned to Hammerfast to turn it into a town, the twenty paladins buried in The Iron Tomb appeared before the settlers. Their leader, Lord Gathrak, swore that he and the other paladins would arise from their graves on two conditions - one, if their tomb was disturbed, or two, if Hammerfast faced invasion again. Since then, the town guard has maintained a constant watch over the entrance to the tomb. It is unusual that the paladins rose from the dead so quickly to defend the tomb, and so there are stories that they are guarding something very valuable, or protecting Hammerfast from something they watch over. What that is depends on who is telling the story. If you were to do this for me, you would risk much, perhaps even your life. I'm not sure what I could give you in return."
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Grimbald reverently draws the sword, holding it horizontally with open palms.
Grimbald's Story:
Marsinda takes the sword and inspects it. As she does so another dwarf, younger with spectacles arrives, puffing as if rushing. "Ah, Master Orin Hammergold," says Marsinda, not looking at the new arrival. "Not interfering with your personal life I hope. This is Grimbald Squirrelking, finder of my uncle's remains."
Orin raises his eyebrows a little at Grimbald's uncoventional name. He nods and makes a polite greeting. Orin pulls out a scroll and quill and begins writing. Grimbald supposes him to be a secretary or some such.
"Thank you," Marsinda says to Grimbald. "I will keep the sword. You have already told me from your story you found the scrolls about his work and could identify what they were about - I am not asking for these back as I understand you may have an interest in this topic. Just know if you were wanting to sell them I am sure the Grand Library would buy them, or even be grateful for a chance to copy them. It might be good to have that information in more than one place."
Marsinda talks to the priest and Orin and they make plans for interring the remains of Tholarn Goldspinner in the catacombs below in the family crypts. A small ceremony would be held in... Marsinda looks at Orin who consults another scroll. "Ahh..three days time, at highsun," he says.
"Just so," says Marsinda. "Grimbald, you are welcome to attend the funeral rites of my uncle," Marsinda announces. Orin makes a note of this. "If you are staying at Varda's inn I daresay you could arrive with her?" Varda nods. "Orin, give Grimbald a pass."
Orin reaches into his bag and pulls out an iron bracelet with dwarven runes indicating the wearer is a trusted ally of the Trade Guild.
"It won't get you everywhere, but it will get into some places only Trade Guild members are allowed to go," the young dwarf says.
Varda and Grimbald leave the temple, leaving Marsinda to consult with the priest and Orin.
"I'm at Rondald's Inn," says Grimbald. "I wasn't planning on staying long and the Gate Ward seemed like the cheapest place for an overnight stay."
Varda screws up her nose. "Ugh, poor you. Go grab your stuff and come stay with me at the Pony. No charge."
Grimbald will have free room and board at the Coach and Pony Inn. Does he want to do anything else in Hammerfast while he is there?
He could:
RL and Esa's Story:
The river trip was mostly uneventful until the river came under the canopy of the Harken Forest. Then there was more to see on the riverbank and the water. A few big fish were seen - or rather just the backs of them, a box was also seen, half floating. Sandy declined to take a closer look, stating it was best to leave things alone in the Harken Forest. On the bank RL spied an overgrown tombstone. Esa was about to fly over and investigate until Sandy told them that legend had it that the tombstone was actually a mimic. He had never stopped to check. Later they passed two elves fishing on the river bank. They did not return the halflings' greetings and watched the boat go past with hard eyes and stony faces.
"And here I thought dwarves were the masters of dour expressions," said Esa, doing her best to give them an equally hard stare back but perhaps looking more like she was constipated.
Soon Sandy announced they were at Drith's location. Here the river edges were more swampy and mosquitos and other insects buzzed happy, in eager anticipation of fairy and shifter blood. A solid raft was being poled out by two bullywug crew. One of the frog folk was carrying one of the owl medallions that the bullywug champion Ugglor had. It allowed the bullywug to speak to the halflings. They did not seem happy that Esa and RL were coming, as well as the supplies. Three crates were lowered to the raft and the bullywugs handed over a bag of coins. On a whim, Esa asked to see the coins, and was surprised to see some old silver and copper coins with a dragon on one side. These were not standard currency, and Esa was curious as to where the coins had come from.
The raft made it to the shore, and Drith was waiting for them. He towered over them, one of the biggest dragonborn they had ever seen, not that they had seen too many to be fair. His scales were a dark green and he was broad of shoulder with thick limbs. Despite this he was dressed as a druid or spellcaster might be, in a cloth robe decorated with swamp flowers, and carried a gnarled staff.
Esa looks at him, and might be about to say something inappropriate.
Actions?
Grimbald's heart takes him to the Trade Boulevard to investigate trees that can repel the axes of orcs. Grimbald's head tells him to then to go to the Trade Spire, in search of an opportunity to improve trade, he will seek out any nobles from the Nentir Vale.
RL will do his best to give a good impression, stand up straight with shoulders back, that sort of thing. Too late he realises he should have paid some attention to his appearance and hair while on the boat. He will sigh then give a smile and a courtly bow as taught by Grimbald towards Drith. "Hello there Drith. Its a pleasure to meet you, I am Rustling Leaves and this is Esa, we are some of the delvers that recently cleared the Iron Circle out of Harken. We heard in town that you were having some problems with druids from the Harken Heart and we thought we would come past and see if we could help and maybe you could help us in return."
Esa and RL's Story
Drith looks like he was going to be somewhat unwelcoming, but hearing RL's words he seems to have a change in heart. His great green eyes with a cat like slit keep shifting to take in Esa's tattoos.
His voice is deep. "Then welcome to my temporary home. If you are the delvers who helped send the Iron Circle back with their tails between their legs then maybe we can help each other. I do have some problems with Harken's Heart, they attack us sporadically, usually by sending us a horde of twig blights. While they do not bother me personally, they have injured, even killed, some of my bullywug helpers. I'm not sure what could be done about that, but if something could be, it would make my life easier." Drith gestures up the hill towards some ruins covered by vegetation. "Come and see my home, and be welcome, will you eat? Oh do not be concerned, I have no fey powers over anyone who eats my food."
There are several ruins of buildings here in the forest overlooking the river. RL and Esa realise this must have been a community at one time. Drith orders the bullywugs to prepare food for guests - "I'm going to assume you don't like swamp weed, bugs, and small frogs like the bullywugs," Drith says - and he gives the pair a tour.
"One ruin has been explored completely," the dragonborn explains, "this one" - a low building not much more than piles of rocks with bullywugs disappearing into a hole in an exposed stone floor - "is being explored. Another back there appears to have some undead, so we have blocked it off for now until someone" - he gives Esa and RL a look - "can help me with this problem as well."
Grimbald's Story
A number of leafy trees line the streets of Trade Boulevard. Grimbald wanders around looking at the trees which seem nothing special. He does encounter a cold spot near one tree, which he thinks is odd.
Grimbald Investigates the cold spot. 21
A voice says in Grimbald's ear "Will you stop waving your hands about in my innards!"
A ghost of a dwarf materialises in front of Grimbald, and it seems Grimbald's hand is inside the ghost. The ghost looks at Grimbald with one eyebrow raised.
Grimbald steps back in surprise, and takes a moment to compose himself. My apologies, please and thank you. I am Grimbald Squirrelking, a pleasure to meet you. I would be pleased to know your name, and your role here amongst the trees. You see, I love trees.
"Do you?" said the ghost, smiling. He looks like a standard dwarf, dressed in robes and carrying a bag. He seems average in just about every way, including an average beard. Totally average. Other than being pale and transluscent.
"I am Telg and I tend to these trees," says the ghost, gesturing unnecessarily at the closest tree. "Most people who know of me think that I fade away during the day, but I just choose to remain invisible. It stops people interacting with me while I do what I do and you'd be surprised at the things I hear when people think they are alone."
The ghost Telg looks around at the trees. "I know it is part of being a ghost, but I am compelled - happily so - to tend the trees because this is where I died during the orc invasion. These trees are important. Legend has it that they will wither and die only on the eve of Hammerfast's destruction."
"Squirrels have taught me the value of trees. They have given me food, shelter, solace. The branches and leaves have hidden me from harm, give me a vantage over a battle, and provide me with cover greater than any armour I have found." He lowers his voice and glances sideways in case others are listening "I swear I can almost hear their voices sometimes". Is it true these trees withstood the orc axe?"
We can help with undead once we get the rest of our party together. We came partly because we heard you were in trouble and partly because we heard you have a wonderous item that can restore wounds as if they were never inflicted. Can you tell me how you came to have the bullywugs working for you? we had some trouble with one of their leaders a while ago?
Grimbald's Story:
"Yes... err.. and no," Telg smiled. "The trees were not even touched by the axes, when the orcs tried the axe blades rebounded and smacked the orcs in the head, fatally for the most part. But it wasn't the trees, it was because these orcs had been cursed. There's a druid living here by the name of Idara - it was her grandmother, also a druid, who put the curse on any orc who harmed a tree. It's said the power of the curse drained her, because the orcs wouldn't stop trying. Orcs are stubborn. I know, there's an orc ghost I pretty much have to fight off each night because of an oath he's sworn. He's so stubborn I'm afraid he might succeed one day, he's a ghost after all."
RL and Esa's Story:
Drith's eyes look at RL for a moment and you get a sense he is weighing his options. Then he speaks in that deep voice of his.
"I offered the bullywugs some organisation, some leadership. They are simple but have their own culture and respect strength. Gloorpk is the leader you are referring to. He and his tribe are here too. Uggloor is now the chief of the tribe, and they are better off here, I think they are anyway. They definitely would be if it wasn't for the twig blights coming at us every couple of weeks.
"As for wonderous items that restore wounds, I'm assuming you want that eye fixed? We found some relics - artifacts that have a one-time ability to cast regeneration magic. Sadly I have used the two that we found, helping my bullywug friends, however I know there are more down where we stirred up the undead. My poor bullywugs would get slaughtered, they are not really delvers and don't have the kind of thinking necessary for that kind of work. If you bring your colleagues back with you and clear out the undead, then I will split any more of these regeneration relics with you. But, and I do not wish to be rude, however my experience with mercenary types is that sometimes they can get greedy, I do require you not to claim any other treasure that you find. Although I am open to trade, after I have catalogued all items taken from the site."
"So what is this place, or rather what was it?" asked Esa, looking at the stonework. "This is not elf or dwarf work."
"Ah, good observation," replies Drith. "No, this was once a community of dragonborn, under the banner of the Arkhosian Empire, and probably was existing here maybe 2000 years ago, hence the poor state of the buildings. The Arkhosian Empire became very adept at magic and war. They would have cleared this land, but the community fell - I would say a casualty of the war with the tieflings of the Bael Turath Empire - and the Harken Forest reclaimed the area."
Drith pauses, and then looks directly at Esa.
"I have some small ability with arcane spells," he says, "although primal magic is what I grew up with. Are your tattoos your... spell book? I have never heard of such a thing, but I recognise the writing."
"We can have a chat about that later if you like!" said Esa. "I love to talk about magic and theory and find new forms and types of magic."
"Well, so do I," said Drith, grinning and showing far, far too many big teeth. "I shall look forward to our discussion. Ahh, here is your food."
A bullywug appeared with fruit and fish fillets. The fish appeared to be a little overcooked, but not too much. They were served on big leaves. Drith was also served a big pile of fish fillets, but his were raw.
"Do you have any other questions?" Drith asked, then popped several fillets into his mouth and chewed them, making an obvious effort to not chew with his mouth open.
"How did you find this place?" asked Esa, cutting up some fruit and popping small bits into her mouth.
"I came by a map that showed me its location," said Drith after swallowing another stack of fillets. A third pale eyelid flicked horizontally across his eyes. RL had seen many animals with that feature, especially those that blinked rarely. "I was very excited, as you already know I am interested in historical sites, and of course everyone likes magic treasure and normal treasure too I suppose. I just had to get some help and some bullywugs were already here. I just had to talk them into it."
Esa cocks her head, remembering Augustin's story about meeting two dragonborn Dythan's Legion soldiers in Albridge who were looking for two of their scouts who went missing after finding a map of Arkhosian ruins in Harken Wood. She opens her mouth to ask about this, then closes it again, conscious they are in the power of this being whose morals and inclinations are unknown to her. She decides to talk about this later with RL on the way home.
"Hmmm, has no one bothered to help you with this orc ghost? Surely we could enlist some help. Apart from his oath, what do you know of him? I hear the orcs ar peaceful here now, maybe even they would want to see him move on?"
RL turns in early, sleeping in a tree, and Drith and Esa talk about magic, spellcasting, the crafting of magic items, and spellbooks well into the night. Drith indicates that he sleeps in a large, hollowed out tree and heads there after bidding her good night when Esa starts to yawn.
In the cold morning there is a mist seeping through the forest from the river. The heroes have a breakfast looking similar to their dinner the night before, Drith acknowledging that unless one wants to eat what the bullywugs eat - and he says to trust him that Esa and RL do not - there is not a lot of variety of food available here. Drith offers an amulet to RL and Esa, in the shape of an owl. He says when activated it will cast tongues or comprehend languages. It does require attunement.
Clicky link - Amulet of the Owl.
"I hope to see you again soon with your comrades," says Drith, waving a hand in farewell.
RL shapeshifts into a deer and, with Esa riding his back, nimbly darts along the forest trails, heading back to Harkenwold.
Grimbald's Story
Telg looks thoughtful. "Well, the oath is part of the problem. Kralick - that's the orc ghost - has sworn to either fell a tree or find and shatter his axe in revenge for its betrayal. He was one of the few orcs who did not die from his rebounding axe. He went off tomb looting after that, no doubt trailing blood everywhere. Sadly his axe is in an inaccessible place - The Iron Tomb, where he fell. It's in this same ward, just down there and turn right," Telg points to the north end of the Trade Boulevard.
"I can see you have questions. Let me tell you about The Iron Tomb. First thing you need to know - you probably do already - is that the tombs that remain intact are legally off-limits. The town guard patrols the necropolis of Hammerfast and anyone caught looting existing tombs faces a death sentence. That doesn't stop some thieves, of course, and rumours abound of tombs that were looted by thieves despite the vigilance of the town guard. But there is a loophole - tombs that have already been opened are fair game, but not everyone knows this. And the Iron Tomb has been cracked before. But wait.." Telg holds up a finger. "Before you go charging off to The Iron Tomb you need to know the rules about this particular tomb."
"The Iron Tomb was different - and still is different," Telg continued. "because it houses the paladins of Moradin. They rose and slaughtered the orcs - including Kralick - that troubled their sleep. When we returned to Hammerfast to turn it into a town, the twenty paladins buried in The Iron Tomb appeared before the settlers. Their leader, Lord Gathrak, swore that he and the other paladins would arise from their graves on two conditions - one, if their tomb was disturbed, or two, if Hammerfast faced invasion again. Since then, the town guard has maintained a constant watch over the entrance to the tomb. It is unusual that the paladins rose from the dead so quickly to defend the tomb, and so there are stories that they are guarding something very valuable, or protecting Hammerfast from something they watch over. What that is depends on who is telling the story. If you were to do this for me, you would risk much, perhaps even your life. I'm not sure what I could give you in return."