"My brother - I fear he would be tempted by this place, perhaps to his doom. And lose the chance to show the world his strength, courage, and nobility."
Clas couldn't help but smile as Thia rushed up to him with her usual boundless energy. She was a lively elf, and her enthusiasm was infectious. "Hahahaha! Thia, my dear, it's wonderful to see you again!" he exclaimed, his hazel eyes gleaming with warmth. "We've found what your lady needed, indeed! But don't you worry, my companions are safe and sound. They'll be here tomorrow."
With that, he lifted Thia off the ground, twirling her around in the courtyard, careful not to soil her clothes. Her joy was a bright spot in what could often be a grim and perilous world.
After setting her down gently, he leaned in closer and whispered conspiratorially, "Now, Thia, could you do me a favor? Fetch a servant to draw me a nice, warm bath. I've been adventuring and I'm in need of some proper relaxation. While you're at it, let Mistress Martha know that her trusted adventurers will return no later than tomorrow, victorious. If she has any questions or needs to discuss anything, you know where to find me. Hahahaha!"
Clas gave Thia a smile and a wink, confident that she could handle the task, and made sure Thunderhoof was properly stabled before he headed inside the manor, looking forward to a hot bath, a hearty meal, and a well-deserved rest.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Out of sequence >> During Tarysaa's four hour watch and chatting with Lady Zentromya, I am certain 'magic' will come up; and Tarysaa's frustration when it does not go as desired. She will ask if there are safe ways to gain a firmer connection with the Weave.
Clas couldn't help but smile as Thia rushed up to him with her usual boundless energy. She was a lively elf, and her enthusiasm was infectious. "Hahahaha! Thia, my dear, it's wonderful to see you again!" he exclaimed, his hazel eyes gleaming with warmth. "We've found what your lady needed, indeed! But don't you worry, my companions are safe and sound. They'll be here tomorrow."
With that, he lifted Thia off the ground, twirling her around in the courtyard, careful not to soil her clothes. Her joy was a bright spot in what could often be a grim and perilous world.
After setting her down gently, he leaned in closer and whispered conspiratorially, "Now, Thia, could you do me a favor? Fetch a servant to draw me a nice, warm bath. I've been adventuring and I'm in need of some proper relaxation. While you're at it, let Mistress Martha know that her trusted adventurers will return no later than tomorrow, victorious. If she has any questions or needs to discuss anything, you know where to find me. Hahahaha!"
Clas gave Thia a smile and a wink, confident that she could handle the task, and made sure Thunderhoof was properly stabled before he headed inside the manor, looking forward to a hot bath, a hearty meal, and a well-deserved rest.
"Are you kidding Clas? I will take care of your needs myself!" she offers eagerly "So you can start telling me all you have done," her hands seem to begin to gesticulate in the air as if animated by their own will "and seen, and..."
The half-elf girl has already taken the reins of Thunderhoof and is leading him towards the stable, giving him enthusiastic pats on the neck to compliment him - sweaty as he is, it is clear that he has not spared himself, to bring his rider here soon ...
Clas is then given what he asked for and Thia finds him a comfortable room in which to spend the night.
(OOC: During all this, Clas actually tells Thia, in whole or in part, what happened in the dungeon and what the means to resurrect Dobbian consists of?)
Out of sequence >> During Tarysaa's four hour watch and chatting with Lady Zentromya, I am certain 'magic' will come up; and Tarysaa's frustration when it does not go as desired. She will ask if there are safe ways to gain a firmer connection with the Weave.
"I'm not a great expert of magic in itself, Tarysaa..." Zentromya replies "But maybe some problems you experienced are because of lingering wards left in this place. It was a prison, after all. And meant to contain magical creatures. I"m sure you'll be fine outside! Just keep studying and feed your passion for knowledge! Many souls of magic-users I met told me that, at least".
Clas chuckled heartily as he recounted the daring escapades of the adventuring company, his hazel eyes gleaming with excitement while waiting for Thia to stable Thunderhoof and then walk inside the Sharnshield Mansion with him. "Thia, you won't believe the thrills we've had on this journey! Hahahaha!" he exclaimed. "First, there was that Zhentarim slaver hold. Sneaking through the shadows, we fought room to room, and at one point, I couldn't resist a bit of humor. I shouted, 'Well met, friend!' to a Zhentarim thug who was about to strike down one of my companions. The look on his face as my hand axe hurtled toward him was priceless! Hahahaha! We freed the slaves and pressed on."
As the water warmed for his bath, Clas removed his armor and clothes to have them cleaned, got into the bath, and continued, "Then, deep beneath an old keep, we discovered a secret door that led to dungeons shrouded in unending fog and darkness. We had to outwit living fires that roamed the hallways. It was quite the challenge! Hahahaha!"
Sitting at the table, eating and drinking with merriment. "And there's more! Hahahaha!" he declared; his voice filled with enthusiasm. "Deeper still, we faced a tentacled monstrosity with countless eyes, and a giant she-wolf ready to pounce on us at any moment. It was a fierce battle, but we emerged victorious. Afterward, we stumbled upon a celestial being trapped in the dungeon for centuries. It agreed to bring your fallen Dobbian back to life. So, we've freed it, and the rest of the party is leading it back to Sharnshield Mansion as we speak!"
As Clas and Thia walked back to the room where he would spend the night, he turned to her, gratitude in his eyes. "Thia, my friend, I can't thank you enough for your hospitality," he said, his tone sincere. "Your care and attention mean a great deal to me. It's not every day that I meet someone who knows how to treat a guest properly. Should you ever need anything: call on me." Clas gave her a warm smile, appreciating her vivacious spirit and dedication.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Thia blushes to the roots of her braids when Clas, about to retire for the night, showers her with compliments and shows all his appreciation.
"Clas, to me also, having met a brave and intrepid hero like you means a great deal..." the young half-elf girl murmurs in a faint voice "Mistress Martha is so dear to me that she is more a friend than a mistress... But still, sometimes, it happens to me to imagine what it would be like to change my life... leave everything... travel... And how nice it would be to do it alongside a hero like you!"
"But obviously these are just exaggerated fantasies" Thia minimizes, lowering her eyes and preparing to retire for the night. "What brave hero would choose an ordinary young servant girl to stand by him? I will probably continue to live my simple but satisfying life in the service of Mistress Martha".
Clas couldn't help but chuckle at Thia's humility and her dreams of adventure. His boisterous laughter filled the room as he clapped her on the shoulder. "Hahahaha! Thia, my dear friend, let me tell you something," he said with a twinkle in his eye. "Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, and they often find companionship in the most unexpected places. Adventure has a way of bringing people together, and I've seen the unlikeliest of pairs achieve the greatest feats."
With his characteristic enthusiasm, he continued, "Don't sell yourself short! Hahahaha! You have a spirit that shines as brightly as any hero's. Your dreams aren't exaggerated fantasies; they're aspirations waiting to be fulfilled! And who knows, maybe one day, you'll decide to set off on an adventure of your own. If that day comes, remember that Clas the adventurer will be cheering you on! Hahahaha!"
Clas stepped into his room, the warm glow of the fireplace casting dancing shadows across the cozy chamber. He set about tending to the hearth, adding a few logs to ensure a comfortable warmth throughout the night. The large, inviting bed beckoned, and he quickly straightened the sheets and fluffed the pillows. As he worked, Clas left the door to his room ajar, a silent invitation for Thia to join him if she wished. He knew that the choice was hers, and he respected her decision either way. With the room now prepared for the night, he settled into a comfortable chair by the fire, content to enjoy its soothing crackle as he waited, his infectious optimism still shining through even in this quiet moment.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
What happened that night in that not-so-frequented wing of the Sharnshield Mansion? Did Thia retreat to her rooms immediately... or later? There are no witnesses who can say this - except those directly involved, Thia and Clas.
What is certain is that the next day, while they have breakfast together, they seem to be at ease together, as before if not even more so.
At the end of breakfast, Thia declares, lively as usual: "I can't wait to meet that celestial creature you have freed! She must be beautiful! Maybe it was Lady Goldheart who led you to find her! I have often prayed to that goddess to help Mistress Martha... Lady Goldheart is the elven goddess who protects lovers, did you know that, Clas?" a longer look than usual, as if studying his reaction, then "I can't resist! I'm going to wait for them outside! They'll come in no time anyway! Are you coming with me?"
The next moment the young half-elf girl has already moved (with a speed that would suggest teleportation, if it weren't well known that Thia doesn't have magical powers) from the table to the entrance, where she retrieves a heavy dress, opens the door and, followed or not, rushes out.
Breakfast with Thia was a delightful affair. Her lively nature was infectious, and Clas couldn't help but smile as she spoke of the celestial creature. "Lady Goldheart, the elven goddess of lovers, you say?" Clas replied. "I didn't know that! Perhaps it was her guiding hand that led us to where we are now."
As Thia made her enthusiastic declaration about waiting for their companions and the celestial outside, Clas couldn't resist her infectious energy. He chuckled and rose from his chair, following her to the entrance. "I'm with you, Thia! Hahahaha!" he exclaimed, matching her pace as she retrieved a dress and darted outside. The prospect of a new day filled with adventure had Clas brimming with excitement.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Sharnshield Mansion, morning of the new day, 29 Hammer 1500 DR
“Yes, I was thinking that too!” smiles Thia, upon hearing Clas' opinion regarding the involvement of the elven goddess.
Just outside, the enthusiastic couple is greeted by a strong, cold wind and a menacingly clouded sky - which Thia ignores with incredible nonchalance, simply holding onto Clas so they both feel less cold (could that really be the only reason?) and expecting at any moment to see Dobbian's saviors emerge from the road leading to the Sharnshield Mansion.
“They will definitely be here any minute!” exclaims the young half-elf girl with conviction, naturally resting her head (and its long braids) against the chest of the imposing adventurer.
(OOC: And indeed, if the rest of the party had left the dungeon as soon as they got up and no inconvenience had slowed them down on their way, they would indeed arrive shortly... As soon as the rest of the party is ready, let's see what they want to do and play what actually happens)
Tarysaa slowly came out of her meditative trance feeling refreshed and ready for the new day. Rising, she gathered her kit and made a pot of boiling water for any who desired a bit of herbal before heading out of the woods and back to Longsaddle.
"Rise and shine everyone."
(( I hope everyone took advantage of this long rest and recovered your skills/spell slots, etc. ))
[[ Once underway, Tarysaa shall once again cycle among the party, using Prestidigitation to clean everyone up and to warm up cloaks and clothing for the trip in the Hammer cold. ]]
As usual Nim sleeps in as long as the situation will allow him and eventually rises, refreshed and ready for the return trip to town. He indulges in the hearty warm ness of the tea brewed for him. And when the party is ready he plays a variety of jaunty tunes from the beginning of the trek to their arrival to the manor, encouraging their newfound Elephant-fairy to share any songs of her people.
Dungeon, early morning of the new day, 29 Hammer 1500 DR
OK, so it seems you all have a breakfast then head to Longsaddle (and Sharnshield Mansion) with Zentromya.
When prompted by the halfling bard for 'songs of her people', the winged miniature she-elephant is happy to sing a few, this time with her physical, rather than telepathic, voice.
The language she uses is full of sweet and persuasive sounds, a real caress for the ears and even those who don't understand it (it's Celestial) have the impression that these are songs that speak of such joy and vitality enthralling to the point of being almost overwhelming. She's physically exhausting, being able to sing along to the intense rhythms of Zentromya's songs-but it's also objectively galvanizing.
Who knows what effect they would have, singing in front of an audience and accompanied by musical accompaniment?
Otherwise, dark skies and cold winds seem to have struck a deal to weaken your spirits, but Tarysaa does her best to improve the comfort of traveling with her cantrips.
Let's just see if the weather is your only concern...
Sharnshield Mansion, morning of the new day, 29 Hammer 1500 DR
A strong, cold wind blows over the open prairies north of Longsaddle, a wind that whistles in your ears as if to ask you to acknowledge your unwelcome presence. Gloomy clouds seem to look down on you with disapproval.
And yet, you insist on taking one step after another, in the direction of the large ranch which, as you recognize from the sign already known to you (two crossed swords with a horizontal bar below), is the Sharnshield Mansion, the place where Martha is waiting anxiously.
Martha ... and not just her, apparently! The little half-elf girl with her blond hair gathered in two braids on either side of her head who runs over you, coming out from who knows where and embracing you one after the other, is Thya, Martha's trusted servant. And there is also Clas with her!
"You did it, I know! Clas told me all!" the half-elf girl congratulates you one by one "I knew Lady Goldheart would guide your steps... Oooh!" she opens her mouth suddenly, in delighted wonder, at seeing the miniature gold furred elephant who, intrepid, challenges the wind with you pushed by his rapidly fluttering wings "And you must be Zentromya! The Emissary from the Heavens who can save our Dobbian! You are even cuter than Clas had described to you..."
Thya is about to reach out to touch Zentromya with reverence and tenderness, but the urgency leads her to stop mid-movement and instead address the characters: "Now let's go, Martha must absolutely see and know all this right away!" and she starts leading you towards the mansion...
(OOC: So the party is united again! I'll give you some time to interact with each other, or with Zentromya again or with the young half-elf girl... Or to declare if you want to do something other than follow Thia - or rather let yourself practically be dragged by Thia - towards the Mansion. Unless you claim to do otherwise, I will assume that you follow the young servant, who is so determined to take you to meet her mistress Martha)
Tarysaa recaps in her head >>> So, we found the 'magic item' to bring Dobbian back from the dead. Okay, so it was a magical creature; not an item. Or that is our assumption. A wee flying elephant like Celestial creature. *sigh* Hence we ran out of the dungeon / lab like our hair was on fire because we thought the mission seemed complete. Obstacles, both mundane and magical, were overcome;. The 'treasure' taken and now, we walk out the conquering heroes to claim our reward. We shall see how that goes.
What seemed a hopeless and fruitless task now seems to have done some good. We encountered the local goblins and learned where one of their fortified villages was located. Flushed out a small band of Zhentarium rabble. Released a couple of prisoners. Found the dungeon / lab of a Harpell ancestor that was at least 250 years old... and still deadly.
I suppose I shall have to take time to speak with the Harpells and let them know what lurks and waits out in those woods. The Zhentarium seemed awfully keen on not letting the Harpells know they were in the area. Not certain what THAT was all about, but more information worth passing on.
Our hearty little group is now battle tested. True, we didn't solve all the puzzles properly. Nor defeated any flaming orbs. And probably broke some things that should have not been touched. BUT, perhaps we did learn some things about ourselves and our abilities.
Now, we shall see what Zentromya can do for Martha Sharnshield and her dead lover. Or perhaps we shall discover we jumped from a frying skillet into the campfire by setting this 'dead back to life' cycle in motion. Our agreeing to this task was not embraced by those at the manor, other than Thya and Martha. We just might be in the minority when it comes to being embraced by those in the manor and the town.
Whatever the outcome, we are back where we started. Standing about in the cold wondering where our next meal will come from. Where we shall wander next. Did we do the proper things? Have we upset the celestial applecart? Can we get a decent meal and bed in town?
And what did Clas do back at the manor while we took our long rest in the burrow? And what did Nimblestep do with that glaive? I do not recall what transpired as we broke camp to return to Longsaddle. Will we stick together or go our seperate ways now? She sighs again as she warms up her cloak against the harsh Hammer winds.
"You know, Tarysaa, every time you get lost in thought, you twirl your hair with your finger and pout just a bit." He couldn't help but chuckle at the adorable habit.
With a mischievous glint in his eye, he added, "It's like you've got your own little thought ritual. Hahahaha! Makes me wonder what secrets you're cooking up in that clever head of yours."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
And Ardana goes on, perhaps tangentially,
"My brother - I fear he would be tempted by this place, perhaps to his doom. And lose the chance to show the world his strength, courage, and nobility."
Clas couldn't help but smile as Thia rushed up to him with her usual boundless energy. She was a lively elf, and her enthusiasm was infectious. "Hahahaha! Thia, my dear, it's wonderful to see you again!" he exclaimed, his hazel eyes gleaming with warmth. "We've found what your lady needed, indeed! But don't you worry, my companions are safe and sound. They'll be here tomorrow."
With that, he lifted Thia off the ground, twirling her around in the courtyard, careful not to soil her clothes. Her joy was a bright spot in what could often be a grim and perilous world.
After setting her down gently, he leaned in closer and whispered conspiratorially, "Now, Thia, could you do me a favor? Fetch a servant to draw me a nice, warm bath. I've been adventuring and I'm in need of some proper relaxation. While you're at it, let Mistress Martha know that her trusted adventurers will return no later than tomorrow, victorious. If she has any questions or needs to discuss anything, you know where to find me. Hahahaha!"
Clas gave Thia a smile and a wink, confident that she could handle the task, and made sure Thunderhoof was properly stabled before he headed inside the manor, looking forward to a hot bath, a hearty meal, and a well-deserved rest.
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Out of sequence >> During Tarysaa's four hour watch and chatting with Lady Zentromya, I am certain 'magic' will come up; and Tarysaa's frustration when it does not go as desired. She will ask if there are safe ways to gain a firmer connection with the Weave.
"Are you kidding Clas? I will take care of your needs myself!" she offers eagerly "So you can start telling me all you have done," her hands seem to begin to gesticulate in the air as if animated by their own will "and seen, and..."
The half-elf girl has already taken the reins of Thunderhoof and is leading him towards the stable, giving him enthusiastic pats on the neck to compliment him - sweaty as he is, it is clear that he has not spared himself, to bring his rider here soon ...
Clas is then given what he asked for and Thia finds him a comfortable room in which to spend the night.
(OOC: During all this, Clas actually tells Thia, in whole or in part, what happened in the dungeon and what the means to resurrect Dobbian consists of?)
"I'm not a great expert of magic in itself, Tarysaa..." Zentromya replies "But maybe some problems you experienced are because of lingering wards left in this place. It was a prison, after all. And meant to contain magical creatures. I"m sure you'll be fine outside! Just keep studying and feed your passion for knowledge! Many souls of magic-users I met told me that, at least".
Clas chuckled heartily as he recounted the daring escapades of the adventuring company, his hazel eyes gleaming with excitement while waiting for Thia to stable Thunderhoof and then walk inside the Sharnshield Mansion with him. "Thia, you won't believe the thrills we've had on this journey! Hahahaha!" he exclaimed. "First, there was that Zhentarim slaver hold. Sneaking through the shadows, we fought room to room, and at one point, I couldn't resist a bit of humor. I shouted, 'Well met, friend!' to a Zhentarim thug who was about to strike down one of my companions. The look on his face as my hand axe hurtled toward him was priceless! Hahahaha! We freed the slaves and pressed on."
As the water warmed for his bath, Clas removed his armor and clothes to have them cleaned, got into the bath, and continued, "Then, deep beneath an old keep, we discovered a secret door that led to dungeons shrouded in unending fog and darkness. We had to outwit living fires that roamed the hallways. It was quite the challenge! Hahahaha!"
Sitting at the table, eating and drinking with merriment. "And there's more! Hahahaha!" he declared; his voice filled with enthusiasm. "Deeper still, we faced a tentacled monstrosity with countless eyes, and a giant she-wolf ready to pounce on us at any moment. It was a fierce battle, but we emerged victorious. Afterward, we stumbled upon a celestial being trapped in the dungeon for centuries. It agreed to bring your fallen Dobbian back to life. So, we've freed it, and the rest of the party is leading it back to Sharnshield Mansion as we speak!"
As Clas and Thia walked back to the room where he would spend the night, he turned to her, gratitude in his eyes. "Thia, my friend, I can't thank you enough for your hospitality," he said, his tone sincere. "Your care and attention mean a great deal to me. It's not every day that I meet someone who knows how to treat a guest properly. Should you ever need anything: call on me." Clas gave her a warm smile, appreciating her vivacious spirit and dedication.
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Sharnshield Mansion
Thia blushes to the roots of her braids when Clas, about to retire for the night, showers her with compliments and shows all his appreciation.
"Clas, to me also, having met a brave and intrepid hero like you means a great deal..." the young half-elf girl murmurs in a faint voice "Mistress Martha is so dear to me that she is more a friend than a mistress... But still, sometimes, it happens to me to imagine what it would be like to change my life... leave everything... travel... And how nice it would be to do it alongside a hero like you!"
"But obviously these are just exaggerated fantasies" Thia minimizes, lowering her eyes and preparing to retire for the night. "What brave hero would choose an ordinary young servant girl to stand by him? I will probably continue to live my simple but satisfying life in the service of Mistress Martha".
Clas couldn't help but chuckle at Thia's humility and her dreams of adventure. His boisterous laughter filled the room as he clapped her on the shoulder. "Hahahaha! Thia, my dear friend, let me tell you something," he said with a twinkle in his eye. "Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, and they often find companionship in the most unexpected places. Adventure has a way of bringing people together, and I've seen the unlikeliest of pairs achieve the greatest feats."
With his characteristic enthusiasm, he continued, "Don't sell yourself short! Hahahaha! You have a spirit that shines as brightly as any hero's. Your dreams aren't exaggerated fantasies; they're aspirations waiting to be fulfilled! And who knows, maybe one day, you'll decide to set off on an adventure of your own. If that day comes, remember that Clas the adventurer will be cheering you on! Hahahaha!"
Clas stepped into his room, the warm glow of the fireplace casting dancing shadows across the cozy chamber. He set about tending to the hearth, adding a few logs to ensure a comfortable warmth throughout the night. The large, inviting bed beckoned, and he quickly straightened the sheets and fluffed the pillows. As he worked, Clas left the door to his room ajar, a silent invitation for Thia to join him if she wished. He knew that the choice was hers, and he respected her decision either way. With the room now prepared for the night, he settled into a comfortable chair by the fire, content to enjoy its soothing crackle as he waited, his infectious optimism still shining through even in this quiet moment.
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Sharnshield Mansion
What happened that night in that not-so-frequented wing of the Sharnshield Mansion? Did Thia retreat to her rooms immediately... or later? There are no witnesses who can say this - except those directly involved, Thia and Clas.
What is certain is that the next day, while they have breakfast together, they seem to be at ease together, as before if not even more so.
At the end of breakfast, Thia declares, lively as usual: "I can't wait to meet that celestial creature you have freed! She must be beautiful! Maybe it was Lady Goldheart who led you to find her! I have often prayed to that goddess to help Mistress Martha... Lady Goldheart is the elven goddess who protects lovers, did you know that, Clas?" a longer look than usual, as if studying his reaction, then "I can't resist! I'm going to wait for them outside! They'll come in no time anyway! Are you coming with me?"
The next moment the young half-elf girl has already moved (with a speed that would suggest teleportation, if it weren't well known that Thia doesn't have magical powers) from the table to the entrance, where she retrieves a heavy dress, opens the door and, followed or not, rushes out.
Breakfast with Thia was a delightful affair. Her lively nature was infectious, and Clas couldn't help but smile as she spoke of the celestial creature. "Lady Goldheart, the elven goddess of lovers, you say?" Clas replied. "I didn't know that! Perhaps it was her guiding hand that led us to where we are now."
As Thia made her enthusiastic declaration about waiting for their companions and the celestial outside, Clas couldn't resist her infectious energy. He chuckled and rose from his chair, following her to the entrance. "I'm with you, Thia! Hahahaha!" he exclaimed, matching her pace as she retrieved a dress and darted outside. The prospect of a new day filled with adventure had Clas brimming with excitement.
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Sharnshield Mansion, morning of the new day, 29 Hammer 1500 DR
“Yes, I was thinking that too!” smiles Thia, upon hearing Clas' opinion regarding the involvement of the elven goddess.
Just outside, the enthusiastic couple is greeted by a strong, cold wind and a menacingly clouded sky - which Thia ignores with incredible nonchalance, simply holding onto Clas so they both feel less cold (could that really be the only reason?) and expecting at any moment to see Dobbian's saviors emerge from the road leading to the Sharnshield Mansion.
“They will definitely be here any minute!” exclaims the young half-elf girl with conviction, naturally resting her head (and its long braids) against the chest of the imposing adventurer.
(OOC: And indeed, if the rest of the party had left the dungeon as soon as they got up and no inconvenience had slowed them down on their way, they would indeed arrive shortly... As soon as the rest of the party is ready, let's see what they want to do and play what actually happens)
Tarysaa slowly came out of her meditative trance feeling refreshed and ready for the new day. Rising, she gathered her kit and made a pot of boiling water for any who desired a bit of herbal before heading out of the woods and back to Longsaddle.
"Rise and shine everyone."
(( I hope everyone took advantage of this long rest and recovered your skills/spell slots, etc. ))
[[ Once underway, Tarysaa shall once again cycle among the party, using Prestidigitation to clean everyone up and to warm up cloaks and clothing for the trip in the Hammer cold. ]]
Ardana wakes and readies herself for the walk back.
As usual Nim sleeps in as long as the situation will allow him and eventually rises, refreshed and ready for the return trip to town. He indulges in the hearty warm ness of the tea brewed for him.
And when the party is ready he plays a variety of jaunty tunes from the beginning of the trek to their arrival to the manor, encouraging their newfound Elephant-fairy to share any songs of her people.
Dungeon, early morning of the new day, 29 Hammer 1500 DR
OK, so it seems you all have a breakfast then head to Longsaddle (and Sharnshield Mansion) with Zentromya.
When prompted by the halfling bard for 'songs of her people', the winged miniature she-elephant is happy to sing a few, this time with her physical, rather than telepathic, voice.
The language she uses is full of sweet and persuasive sounds, a real caress for the ears and even those who don't understand it (it's Celestial) have the impression that these are songs that speak of such joy and vitality enthralling to the point of being almost overwhelming. She's physically exhausting, being able to sing along to the intense rhythms of Zentromya's songs-but it's also objectively galvanizing.
Who knows what effect they would have, singing in front of an audience and accompanied by musical accompaniment?
Otherwise, dark skies and cold winds seem to have struck a deal to weaken your spirits, but Tarysaa does her best to improve the comfort of traveling with her cantrips.
Let's just see if the weather is your only concern...
16 12
Sharnshield Mansion, morning of the new day, 29 Hammer 1500 DR
A strong, cold wind blows over the open prairies north of Longsaddle, a wind that whistles in your ears as if to ask you to acknowledge your unwelcome presence. Gloomy clouds seem to look down on you with disapproval.
And yet, you insist on taking one step after another, in the direction of the large ranch which, as you recognize from the sign already known to you (two crossed swords with a horizontal bar below), is the Sharnshield Mansion, the place where Martha is waiting anxiously.
Martha ... and not just her, apparently! The little half-elf girl with her blond hair gathered in two braids on either side of her head who runs over you, coming out from who knows where and embracing you one after the other, is Thya, Martha's trusted servant. And there is also Clas with her!
"You did it, I know! Clas told me all!" the half-elf girl congratulates you one by one "I knew Lady Goldheart would guide your steps... Oooh!" she opens her mouth suddenly, in delighted wonder, at seeing the miniature gold furred elephant who, intrepid, challenges the wind with you pushed by his rapidly fluttering wings "And you must be Zentromya! The Emissary from the Heavens who can save our Dobbian! You are even cuter than Clas had described to you..."
Thya is about to reach out to touch Zentromya with reverence and tenderness, but the urgency leads her to stop mid-movement and instead address the characters: "Now let's go, Martha must absolutely see and know all this right away!" and she starts leading you towards the mansion...
(OOC: So the party is united again! I'll give you some time to interact with each other, or with Zentromya again or with the young half-elf girl... Or to declare if you want to do something other than follow Thia - or rather let yourself practically be dragged by Thia - towards the Mansion. Unless you claim to do otherwise, I will assume that you follow the young servant, who is so determined to take you to meet her mistress Martha)
Tarysaa recaps in her head >>> So, we found the 'magic item' to bring Dobbian back from the dead. Okay, so it was a magical creature; not an item. Or that is our assumption. A wee flying elephant like Celestial creature. *sigh* Hence we ran out of the dungeon / lab like our hair was on fire because we thought the mission seemed complete. Obstacles, both mundane and magical, were overcome;. The 'treasure' taken and now, we walk out the conquering heroes to claim our reward. We shall see how that goes.
What seemed a hopeless and fruitless task now seems to have done some good. We encountered the local goblins and learned where one of their fortified villages was located. Flushed out a small band of Zhentarium rabble. Released a couple of prisoners. Found the dungeon / lab of a Harpell ancestor that was at least 250 years old... and still deadly.
I suppose I shall have to take time to speak with the Harpells and let them know what lurks and waits out in those woods. The Zhentarium seemed awfully keen on not letting the Harpells know they were in the area. Not certain what THAT was all about, but more information worth passing on.
Our hearty little group is now battle tested. True, we didn't solve all the puzzles properly. Nor defeated any flaming orbs. And probably broke some things that should have not been touched. BUT, perhaps we did learn some things about ourselves and our abilities.
Now, we shall see what Zentromya can do for Martha Sharnshield and her dead lover. Or perhaps we shall discover we jumped from a frying skillet into the campfire by setting this 'dead back to life' cycle in motion. Our agreeing to this task was not embraced by those at the manor, other than Thya and Martha. We just might be in the minority when it comes to being embraced by those in the manor and the town.
Whatever the outcome, we are back where we started. Standing about in the cold wondering where our next meal will come from. Where we shall wander next. Did we do the proper things? Have we upset the celestial applecart? Can we get a decent meal and bed in town?
And what did Clas do back at the manor while we took our long rest in the burrow? And what did Nimblestep do with that glaive? I do not recall what transpired as we broke camp to return to Longsaddle. Will we stick together or go our seperate ways now? She sighs again as she warms up her cloak against the harsh Hammer winds.
"You know, Tarysaa, every time you get lost in thought, you twirl your hair with your finger and pout just a bit." He couldn't help but chuckle at the adorable habit.
With a mischievous glint in his eye, he added, "It's like you've got your own little thought ritual. Hahahaha! Makes me wonder what secrets you're cooking up in that clever head of yours."
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Ardana thinks going to see Martha is the first course of action, so she follows Thia closely.