Elro quickly raises a hand to hide his eyes from your characters — attempting to conceal the fact that your kindness and determination have overwhelmed him with emotion. The old Elven man blinks several times to drive away the tears that have welled up in his eyes, yet his arm still trembles slightly as he lowers it to the table again. "I — The entirety of Palebank Village and I cannot thank you enough for your brave and true hearts," Elro manages to say, pressing his lips together in his emotion. He knows the adventurers are capable of many great things, as you have already proven in tracking down the source of the frozen disease — however, he can't help but feel a bit afraid. Even with all your strength, wits, and determination, he knows it's still possible that your lives might end during the journey. And yet, the group of adventurers didn't hesitate for a moment.
"I hope you all know that you've already proven yourself heroes," the Elven man tells you with a firm nod. "I will arrange a ship for your travels to Eiselcross, leave that to me. I shall give you all the day to prepare, to purchase the necessary supplies, clothing, and weapons you might need. The islands of Eiselcross are freezing cold, more severe than the weather here — and dangerous, too. There are plenty of shops in the village for you to find all the equipment you'll need, and I shall pay you in return for what you spend. Just meet me at the village docks when you're all prepared. Oh, and that reminds me," the village leader frowns. "I haven't seen your Gnome friend since last night. Do you have any idea where he's gone?"
(forgot to mention that you've all taken a long rest, so you can go ahead and restore action slots and everything!)
"Might be he's looking to find a way to bring more of his wares to the inn here. He tried to struck a deal. Perhaps, he'll be back quickly. But I don't know, honestly," replies Taiga to Elro.
Carina nods gravely in acknowledgement of Elro's heartfelt words.
"Aye, as Taiga suggested, Brix helped us yesterday, but I think he is a businessman (business-gnome?) at heart. He was most pleased to find a buyer for his wares in the Jolly Dwarf, and perhaps elsewhere in Palebank Village or Uthodurn. One hopes his goods lift the spirits of this village, but I do not know whether a journey to search for Aeorian relics in Eiselcross was ever in his plans." As it was in mine.
She already has cold weather clothing and equipment, but she does also buy: - Potion of Healing * 2 - A couple extra rations
When the opportunity presents itself, Carina quietly inquires about how best to send the coded message she had penned the previous night on its way (through innocuous-sounding proxies) to her faction leaders in Rexxentrum, far to the south.
The Elven man nods thoughtfully at the response from the companions. Although he does wish the best for the cheerful Gnome's selling of his wares, the number of adventurers have dwindled since the previous morning — and Elro hopes the three remaining ones will be safe in the face of the impending danger that lies before them.
Carina pays a visit to the village's post, where their messengers are able to send the Warlock's letter to her faction immediately with the use of teleportation magic. Meanwhile, all three of you are able to purchase the supplies that you need within the shops throughout Palebank Village, all manners of equipment, weapons, and items (that can be found in the Equipment section of the Player's Handbook) available to you with Elro Aldataur's coin. Is there anything else you do in Palebank Village before meeting the Elven man at the docks?
Taiga won’t say no to two healing potions if her own. She didn’t realize Elro would pay for them and when the others got theirs, she felt that it would be better to have them and return with them than to need them and not having any.
He will sell his chain mail, then stop by his uncle's home to leave his shield, javelins, and battle-axe near where he found the splint mail. Before he leaves the home he'll say a prayer, for his uncle, for his missing companions, and for those afflicted by this disease.
He'll take one more look at his equipment and decide to pick up a heavy crossbow and 20 bolts. Feeling satisfied with his choices, he heads to the docks to meet back up with his companions.
Once the adventurers are all prepared to embark on the next part of their journey, you gather at Palebank Village's docks. Here, ships bob in the cold water and rock against the wooden pier where Elro Aldataur stands before you, bundled in a coat. Light snowfall drifts from the pale clouds overhead, melting into the seawater where it lands. Elro gestures to a sailing ship behind him when you approach, upon which a few villagers move cargo about and talk amongst themselves. "This will be the ship to take you to Eiselcross," the Elven man announces.
After paying you in return for any coin that you'd spent purchasing supplies, Elro leads the way up the wooden platform onto the ship, where a few of Palebank's Grassblades greet you with a wave. "This ship will take you to Syrinlya, an Uthodurnian outpost on Foren. Foren is the largest island on Eiselcross, and it was within its ruins that Urgon Wenth explored," the Elven man explains, nodding towards Ragnus and Taiga. "Once you've arrived, speak to a Dwarf named Orvo Mustave. He has gone on expeditions into the wilds of Eiselcross alongside Urgon in the past." Elro pauses, looking thoughtful, and he still cannot fully hide his apprehension. "When you've found the antidote, there'll be an Elf in Syrinlya who goes by 'the Buyer'. They can teleport the cure to me here in the village. Now, is there anything else you need before you depart?"
As she bids farewell to Elro Aldataur and Grassblades of Palebank Village, Carina listens intently to the town leader's words.
A contact with an alias of 'The Buyer' who teleports artifacts to Palebank. Fascinating. I wonder what else this 'Buyer' can teleport and where... perhaps in the same way that my message to Rexxentrum was sent. It makes sense that such remote places prioritize long-distance teleportation magic.
Yet her question is about the party's initial contact, Urgon Wenth's fellow dwarven friend, Orvo Mustave. Carina's voice is quiet and sympathetic.
"Elro Aldataur, you tell us that Orvo Mustave has ventured on expeditions with Urgon Wenth. Were they close? Have you communicated with Orvo to let him know we are coming? If so, did you make him aware of his fellow dwarven adventurer's death and the manner of his demise?"
She thinks but does not say... this Orvo sounds useful. I hope he does not take the news badly. Once again, we may be the potential bearers of ill tidings...
Elro grasps the hands of Ragnus and Taiga and shakes them gratefully before they board the ship. "Thank you," he responds to each of them. To the Warlock, Elro turns and gives Carina a somber nod, pushing his gloved hands back into the pockets of his coat. "I imagine they were quite close, I've heard Urgon speak about him before — but I've never personally met Orvo myself. I sent a letter informing him of Urgon's passing, but I haven't received any response. I can't be sure he's read it." The Elven man frowns. "It may be the case that you have to explain the situation to him yourselves, I'm afraid. But I believe you all have the kindness in your hearts to show how much you're willing to help, as you've shown me."
With that, and once Carina has boarded the ship herself — the crew begins to prepare the vessel to sail. Elro waves at you three as the ship begins to slowly float away from the docks, calling out, "Good luck!" while he's still in earshot. He remains there on the wooden pier even as the wind fills the sails and the ship drifts further from Palebank Village, leaving the snowy village behind in a misty backdrop against the cold ocean. Now, you all have the ship to explore during the journey, and the crew of Grassblades to speak to. What will you do next?
Not one to sit idly by and wait, he begins to explore the ship and speak to some of the Grassblades making light conversation with them about what they know of the region we are heading to.
A mirror of Elro Aldataur, Carina stands at the stern of the boat, solemnly watching the town leader upon the dock until he is out of sight.
Once the vessel is under way, she makes a slow circuit of it to familiarize herself and introduces herself amiably to the crew when they are not busy. But seeing that Reliq is chatting up the Grassblades, she does not linger. Instead, when politeness permits, she specifically seeks out the captain.
One one hand Carina is genuinely curious about what kind of person it takes to captain a ship in such icy waters for a lifetime. She turns on the charm (friendly, not seductive) and tries to draw them into a conversation. But if successful, she tries to guide the conversation according to her ulterior motive of learning more about what the party can expect in Syrinlya and the entire island of Foren, and on the waters during the voyage there.
During slow moments during the day and evening, Carina attempts to lighten spirits by playing simple, well-known melodies on her dark harmonica, sea chanties if preferred, inviting others to sing along if they seem willing. (Or, if she can learn any new songs or tunes from the crew or captain, she does).
During their journey Taiga tried to sort through the visions that she encountered a few days back and discovered that she is able to manipulate elements and developed limited telepathy. She describes her experience and her development to Carina, who she knows is familiar with the arcane. Generally, she will keep close to Carina and her uplifting music.
(OOC: Sorry, I've been a bit busy these days. The stress of the first part of the adventure triggered something that was buried within Taiga, she developed a connection to the plane of Order and her heritage surfaced as she turned clockwork sorceress. It's still all new to her, though. )
(that's alright! I actually got sick this past weekend which is why I haven't been able to respond, sorry for the wait everybody!)
There are only a few Grassblades aboard the ship, two of them stacking cargo in sturdy wooden boxes on the deck for transport and trade once the outpost is reached. One is an unsmiling Elven man who introduces himself as Thandor, and the other is an older, grizzled Dwarf by the name of Bosun. They both greet Ragnus and Carina gruffly — although Bosun seems a bit more receptive to conversation. "Eiselcross!" the veteran Grassblade exclaims in response to Ragnus's question. "Haven't explored much of it myself. Mostly keep to Syrinlya, get our business done, and leave. I prefer warmer waters, personally." The Dwarven man lets out a chuckle and rubs his gloved hands together. "It's always below freezin' there. The folks are kind, though."
Below deck, protected from the cold ocean air outside, they meet a jolly and good-natured Dwarf preparing food for the trip — who gives the adventurers a kind smile as he introduces himself as Olaf. He's busy chopping vegetables and boiling the frost off of them, but tells Ragnus, "There are some dangerous creatures dwelling in the lands of Eiselcross that you won't see elsewhere. Do be careful once we arrive, and let me know if you'd like any snacks for the trip!" There's another Grassblade below deck, a thin Elven man dressed in black, but he doesn't speak upon being greeted — only dipping his head silently.
Finally, Carina meets the captain of the ship at rear of the vessel. He appears to be a weathered Dwarven man upon first glance, but he has the added height and the elegant features that speak of a half-Elven heritage — like the Warlock herself. "Good to meet you, Miss Ravenscale," the captain greets her, his rumbling voice authoritative yet kind. He introduces himself as Aldric before responding to Carina's questions. "There will be a settlement of explorers like Urgon Wenth when we arrive in Syrinlya. They're all searching for the mysteries that the ruins of Eiselcross might hold, lost to time and guarded by tundra-dwelling beasts or strange magic." He looks out towards the gray waters that surround the ship, his gaze somber. "I can't fault their hearts for wanting to seek out the unknown, but there's danger in it. I hope you and your companions will remain safe."
Olaf gets him right in his soft spot, his stomach. He takes a shine to him immediately. "What kind of creatures? Yes, absolutely would take some snacks from ya."
He'll also offer to aid anyone that needs help, chores, healing, etc.
Carina shows genuine friendship towards the fellow dwarven-elven captain, rarely having met anyone who shares her own mixed background before.
"Aye. Danger and magic and cold. I take your warning to heart, Captain Aldric. I hope to make a song of our quest for you if we are lucky enough to survive and have you and your crew take us back to Palebank Village. In the meantime, I will temper the excitement blooming in my heart with caution."
She pauses to consider a moment. "What of dangers in these waters we traverse? There must be risks aplenty on such frigid seas? I hope you do not mind my trying to keep spirits lively with my harmonica. But let my companions and I know if we can help you or the crew in any way."
Carina continues the conversation (but not overstay her welcome in the Captain Aldric's quarters), then prowl the decks, watching the ocean and helping out where she can, or just staying out of the way and playing a tune when it seems appropriate.
"Of course!" the chef, Olaf, chirps in response to Ragnus — giving his fellow Dwarf a bright smile. "What's your favorite, son? I'll prepare it and bring it up to you," he offers, waving off the Paladin's attempt to help him with a grin.
And in response to Carina, Captain Aldric dips his head meaningfully. "I'd love to hear your music, Miss Ravenscale, I don't mind at all. You're correct, there are dangers on the oceans too." He studies the cold, dark waters that surround the ship, his gloved hand resting on the steering wheel. All seems quiet and still for now, as though they're sailing across frozen glass. "Beasts dwell in these waters, as well, and storms are even more likely to attack. Occasionally, we've seen pirates, too. But I've dealt with all of these, I won't let you or your companions be harmed."
With that, your characters take to roaming the vessel, offering your assistance where needed while the ship continues its journey. Gradually, darkness envelops the sky and the chilly wind picks up its pace, sending the boat gliding further into the cold night. Olaf serves dinner for everybody on board, the ship's lanterns flickering aglow while they gather on the upper deck and he passes out bowls of warm vegetable stew. Despite the cold weather on the seas, the atmosphere is warm and comforting — and the Grassblades besides Thandor and the silent Elven man laugh and make merriment. During the dinner, Bosun turns to your characters, his eyes sparking with curiosity. "We've heard tell of your association with the explorer, Urgon Wenth, and that's why your group has been sent on this journey. Did you know him personally, or are you seeking to complete the quest he began?" With the Dwarven man's lighthearted tone, it seems he knows not of the severity of the frozen disease you're seeking the cure for.
He considers the question for a moment, trying to narrow down all of his favorites. "I think it'd have ta be a leg of mutton, but honestly, everything ya have made so far is quite good, I'm not picky."
During dinner he enjoys the laughter and merriment, it reminds him of his days as a soldier. When the Bosun asks, his mood darkens. The events over the past few days come rushing back, pushing away the happiness. "Urgon was my Uncle... he brought something back that is quite dangerous ta anyone that encounters it. A disease. Tha three of us tried ta contain it, but we weren't fast enough. Now we head ta Eiselcross ta figure out a way ta cure tha disease."
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Elro quickly raises a hand to hide his eyes from your characters — attempting to conceal the fact that your kindness and determination have overwhelmed him with emotion. The old Elven man blinks several times to drive away the tears that have welled up in his eyes, yet his arm still trembles slightly as he lowers it to the table again. "I — The entirety of Palebank Village and I cannot thank you enough for your brave and true hearts," Elro manages to say, pressing his lips together in his emotion. He knows the adventurers are capable of many great things, as you have already proven in tracking down the source of the frozen disease — however, he can't help but feel a bit afraid. Even with all your strength, wits, and determination, he knows it's still possible that your lives might end during the journey. And yet, the group of adventurers didn't hesitate for a moment.
"I hope you all know that you've already proven yourself heroes," the Elven man tells you with a firm nod. "I will arrange a ship for your travels to Eiselcross, leave that to me. I shall give you all the day to prepare, to purchase the necessary supplies, clothing, and weapons you might need. The islands of Eiselcross are freezing cold, more severe than the weather here — and dangerous, too. There are plenty of shops in the village for you to find all the equipment you'll need, and I shall pay you in return for what you spend. Just meet me at the village docks when you're all prepared. Oh, and that reminds me," the village leader frowns. "I haven't seen your Gnome friend since last night. Do you have any idea where he's gone?"
(forgot to mention that you've all taken a long rest, so you can go ahead and restore action slots and everything!)
Beginner DM & Barbarian
"Might be he's looking to find a way to bring more of his wares to the inn here. He tried to struck a deal. Perhaps, he'll be back quickly. But I don't know, honestly," replies Taiga to Elro.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
He's worried for the others, but he thinks they can handle what is to come. He nods at Elro. "Thank ya, that is quite generous."
He mentally makes a list of what would be useful.
Carina nods gravely in acknowledgement of Elro's heartfelt words.
"Aye, as Taiga suggested, Brix helped us yesterday, but I think he is a businessman (business-gnome?) at heart. He was most pleased to find a buyer for his wares in the Jolly Dwarf, and perhaps elsewhere in Palebank Village or Uthodurn. One hopes his goods lift the spirits of this village, but I do not know whether a journey to search for Aeorian relics in Eiselcross was ever in his plans." As it was in mine.
She already has cold weather clothing and equipment, but she does also buy:
- Potion of Healing * 2
- A couple extra rations
When the opportunity presents itself, Carina quietly inquires about how best to send the coded message she had penned the previous night on its way (through innocuous-sounding proxies) to her faction leaders in Rexxentrum, far to the south.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
The Elven man nods thoughtfully at the response from the companions. Although he does wish the best for the cheerful Gnome's selling of his wares, the number of adventurers have dwindled since the previous morning — and Elro hopes the three remaining ones will be safe in the face of the impending danger that lies before them.
Carina pays a visit to the village's post, where their messengers are able to send the Warlock's letter to her faction immediately with the use of teleportation magic. Meanwhile, all three of you are able to purchase the supplies that you need within the shops throughout Palebank Village, all manners of equipment, weapons, and items (that can be found in the Equipment section of the Player's Handbook) available to you with Elro Aldataur's coin. Is there anything else you do in Palebank Village before meeting the Elven man at the docks?
Beginner DM & Barbarian
Taiga won’t say no to two healing potions if her own. She didn’t realize Elro would pay for them and when the others got theirs, she felt that it would be better to have them and return with them than to need them and not having any.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
He will sell his chain mail, then stop by his uncle's home to leave his shield, javelins, and battle-axe near where he found the splint mail. Before he leaves the home he'll say a prayer, for his uncle, for his missing companions, and for those afflicted by this disease.
He'll take one more look at his equipment and decide to pick up a heavy crossbow and 20 bolts. Feeling satisfied with his choices, he heads to the docks to meet back up with his companions.
Once the adventurers are all prepared to embark on the next part of their journey, you gather at Palebank Village's docks. Here, ships bob in the cold water and rock against the wooden pier where Elro Aldataur stands before you, bundled in a coat. Light snowfall drifts from the pale clouds overhead, melting into the seawater where it lands. Elro gestures to a sailing ship behind him when you approach, upon which a few villagers move cargo about and talk amongst themselves. "This will be the ship to take you to Eiselcross," the Elven man announces.
After paying you in return for any coin that you'd spent purchasing supplies, Elro leads the way up the wooden platform onto the ship, where a few of Palebank's Grassblades greet you with a wave. "This ship will take you to Syrinlya, an Uthodurnian outpost on Foren. Foren is the largest island on Eiselcross, and it was within its ruins that Urgon Wenth explored," the Elven man explains, nodding towards Ragnus and Taiga. "Once you've arrived, speak to a Dwarf named Orvo Mustave. He has gone on expeditions into the wilds of Eiselcross alongside Urgon in the past." Elro pauses, looking thoughtful, and he still cannot fully hide his apprehension. "When you've found the antidote, there'll be an Elf in Syrinlya who goes by 'the Buyer'. They can teleport the cure to me here in the village. Now, is there anything else you need before you depart?"
Beginner DM & Barbarian
"Thank ya Elro, we'll do our best not ta let ya down. Try ta keep tha family's spirits up and yer's too."
He steps aside after grasping Elro's hand and waits for the others.
"Understood," acknowledges Taiga and departs with a handshake towards the ship.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
As she bids farewell to Elro Aldataur and Grassblades of Palebank Village, Carina listens intently to the town leader's words.
A contact with an alias of 'The Buyer' who teleports artifacts to Palebank. Fascinating. I wonder what else this 'Buyer' can teleport and where... perhaps in the same way that my message to Rexxentrum was sent. It makes sense that such remote places prioritize long-distance teleportation magic.
Yet her question is about the party's initial contact, Urgon Wenth's fellow dwarven friend, Orvo Mustave. Carina's voice is quiet and sympathetic.
"Elro Aldataur, you tell us that Orvo Mustave has ventured on expeditions with Urgon Wenth. Were they close? Have you communicated with Orvo to let him know we are coming? If so, did you make him aware of his fellow dwarven adventurer's death and the manner of his demise?"
She thinks but does not say... this Orvo sounds useful. I hope he does not take the news badly. Once again, we may be the potential bearers of ill tidings...
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Elro grasps the hands of Ragnus and Taiga and shakes them gratefully before they board the ship. "Thank you," he responds to each of them. To the Warlock, Elro turns and gives Carina a somber nod, pushing his gloved hands back into the pockets of his coat. "I imagine they were quite close, I've heard Urgon speak about him before — but I've never personally met Orvo myself. I sent a letter informing him of Urgon's passing, but I haven't received any response. I can't be sure he's read it." The Elven man frowns. "It may be the case that you have to explain the situation to him yourselves, I'm afraid. But I believe you all have the kindness in your hearts to show how much you're willing to help, as you've shown me."
With that, and once Carina has boarded the ship herself — the crew begins to prepare the vessel to sail. Elro waves at you three as the ship begins to slowly float away from the docks, calling out, "Good luck!" while he's still in earshot. He remains there on the wooden pier even as the wind fills the sails and the ship drifts further from Palebank Village, leaving the snowy village behind in a misty backdrop against the cold ocean. Now, you all have the ship to explore during the journey, and the crew of Grassblades to speak to. What will you do next?
Beginner DM & Barbarian
Not one to sit idly by and wait, he begins to explore the ship and speak to some of the Grassblades making light conversation with them about what they know of the region we are heading to.
A mirror of Elro Aldataur, Carina stands at the stern of the boat, solemnly watching the town leader upon the dock until he is out of sight.
Once the vessel is under way, she makes a slow circuit of it to familiarize herself and introduces herself amiably to the crew when they are not busy. But seeing that Reliq is chatting up the Grassblades, she does not linger. Instead, when politeness permits, she specifically seeks out the captain.
One one hand Carina is genuinely curious about what kind of person it takes to captain a ship in such icy waters for a lifetime. She turns on the charm (friendly, not seductive) and tries to draw them into a conversation. But if successful, she tries to guide the conversation according to her ulterior motive of learning more about what the party can expect in Syrinlya and the entire island of Foren, and on the waters during the voyage there.
Weather, hazards, gear, maps, people, monsters, rumors, nautical lore - everything.
During slow moments during the day and evening, Carina attempts to lighten spirits by playing simple, well-known melodies on her dark harmonica, sea chanties if preferred, inviting others to sing along if they seem willing. (Or, if she can learn any new songs or tunes from the crew or captain, she does).
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
During their journey Taiga tried to sort through the visions that she encountered a few days back and discovered that she is able to manipulate elements and developed limited telepathy. She describes her experience and her development to Carina, who she knows is familiar with the arcane. Generally, she will keep close to Carina and her uplifting music.
(OOC: Sorry, I've been a bit busy these days. The stress of the first part of the adventure triggered something that was buried within Taiga, she developed a connection to the plane of Order and her heritage surfaced as she turned clockwork sorceress. It's still all new to her, though. )
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
(that's alright! I actually got sick this past weekend which is why I haven't been able to respond, sorry for the wait everybody!)
There are only a few Grassblades aboard the ship, two of them stacking cargo in sturdy wooden boxes on the deck for transport and trade once the outpost is reached. One is an unsmiling Elven man who introduces himself as Thandor, and the other is an older, grizzled Dwarf by the name of Bosun. They both greet Ragnus and Carina gruffly — although Bosun seems a bit more receptive to conversation. "Eiselcross!" the veteran Grassblade exclaims in response to Ragnus's question. "Haven't explored much of it myself. Mostly keep to Syrinlya, get our business done, and leave. I prefer warmer waters, personally." The Dwarven man lets out a chuckle and rubs his gloved hands together. "It's always below freezin' there. The folks are kind, though."
Below deck, protected from the cold ocean air outside, they meet a jolly and good-natured Dwarf preparing food for the trip — who gives the adventurers a kind smile as he introduces himself as Olaf. He's busy chopping vegetables and boiling the frost off of them, but tells Ragnus, "There are some dangerous creatures dwelling in the lands of Eiselcross that you won't see elsewhere. Do be careful once we arrive, and let me know if you'd like any snacks for the trip!" There's another Grassblade below deck, a thin Elven man dressed in black, but he doesn't speak upon being greeted — only dipping his head silently.
Finally, Carina meets the captain of the ship at rear of the vessel. He appears to be a weathered Dwarven man upon first glance, but he has the added height and the elegant features that speak of a half-Elven heritage — like the Warlock herself. "Good to meet you, Miss Ravenscale," the captain greets her, his rumbling voice authoritative yet kind. He introduces himself as Aldric before responding to Carina's questions. "There will be a settlement of explorers like Urgon Wenth when we arrive in Syrinlya. They're all searching for the mysteries that the ruins of Eiselcross might hold, lost to time and guarded by tundra-dwelling beasts or strange magic." He looks out towards the gray waters that surround the ship, his gaze somber. "I can't fault their hearts for wanting to seek out the unknown, but there's danger in it. I hope you and your companions will remain safe."
Beginner DM & Barbarian
Olaf gets him right in his soft spot, his stomach. He takes a shine to him immediately. "What kind of creatures? Yes, absolutely would take some snacks from ya."
He'll also offer to aid anyone that needs help, chores, healing, etc.
Carina shows genuine friendship towards the fellow dwarven-elven captain, rarely having met anyone who shares her own mixed background before.
"Aye. Danger and magic and cold. I take your warning to heart, Captain Aldric. I hope to make a song of our quest for you if we are lucky enough to survive and have you and your crew take us back to Palebank Village. In the meantime, I will temper the excitement blooming in my heart with caution."
She pauses to consider a moment. "What of dangers in these waters we traverse? There must be risks aplenty on such frigid seas? I hope you do not mind my trying to keep spirits lively with my harmonica. But let my companions and I know if we can help you or the crew in any way."
Carina continues the conversation (but not overstay her welcome in the Captain Aldric's quarters), then prowl the decks, watching the ocean and helping out where she can, or just staying out of the way and playing a tune when it seems appropriate.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
"Of course!" the chef, Olaf, chirps in response to Ragnus — giving his fellow Dwarf a bright smile. "What's your favorite, son? I'll prepare it and bring it up to you," he offers, waving off the Paladin's attempt to help him with a grin.
And in response to Carina, Captain Aldric dips his head meaningfully. "I'd love to hear your music, Miss Ravenscale, I don't mind at all. You're correct, there are dangers on the oceans too." He studies the cold, dark waters that surround the ship, his gloved hand resting on the steering wheel. All seems quiet and still for now, as though they're sailing across frozen glass. "Beasts dwell in these waters, as well, and storms are even more likely to attack. Occasionally, we've seen pirates, too. But I've dealt with all of these, I won't let you or your companions be harmed."
With that, your characters take to roaming the vessel, offering your assistance where needed while the ship continues its journey. Gradually, darkness envelops the sky and the chilly wind picks up its pace, sending the boat gliding further into the cold night. Olaf serves dinner for everybody on board, the ship's lanterns flickering aglow while they gather on the upper deck and he passes out bowls of warm vegetable stew. Despite the cold weather on the seas, the atmosphere is warm and comforting — and the Grassblades besides Thandor and the silent Elven man laugh and make merriment. During the dinner, Bosun turns to your characters, his eyes sparking with curiosity. "We've heard tell of your association with the explorer, Urgon Wenth, and that's why your group has been sent on this journey. Did you know him personally, or are you seeking to complete the quest he began?" With the Dwarven man's lighthearted tone, it seems he knows not of the severity of the frozen disease you're seeking the cure for.
Beginner DM & Barbarian
He considers the question for a moment, trying to narrow down all of his favorites. "I think it'd have ta be a leg of mutton, but honestly, everything ya have made so far is quite good, I'm not picky."
During dinner he enjoys the laughter and merriment, it reminds him of his days as a soldier. When the Bosun asks, his mood darkens. The events over the past few days come rushing back, pushing away the happiness. "Urgon was my Uncle... he brought something back that is quite dangerous ta anyone that encounters it. A disease. Tha three of us tried ta contain it, but we weren't fast enough. Now we head ta Eiselcross ta figure out a way ta cure tha disease."