Cuervo was acutely aware of the falling sensation and was somewhat impressed with herself that she managed to return to her seat with barely a wobble. The positive emotion was short-lived as she wretched once, then twice and finally projectile vomited whatever contents her stomach held. In her favour, she missed the assembled guests, but the carpet would take some time to rid itself of the awful stench.
Wiping away the remainder of the sick from the corner of her mouth, she mumbled an apology before commenting sheepishly that, "You'd probably want to have that cleaned up sooner than later. The smell might linger."
All - As you shake off the vertigo and compose yourselves you notice that Lady Elara seems barely able to stand. She leans against the brick of the fireplace, her chest heaving and her body drenched in sweat, "I... I tried to stop it... I tried to pull you all back out... But I couldn't!" Her hands shake as she removes the moonstone diadem and lets it fall unceremoniously from her hand to the ground, "The memory was... changed somehow..." She reaches for the arm of a nearby divan and practically falls into it, still breathing hard and wiping sweat from her face. "Just give me a moment..." Lady Elara lays on the divan, working to steady her breathing and recover from the exertion. After a few minutes, she takes one more slow deep breath and opens her eyes. "I have experienced that memory dozens of times and never once has it deviated from the account Commander Emberstone recorded in his personal journal, which I possess." She sits upright a bit more and continues, "I have even allowed a select few to also experience the memory as well. The memory was unchanged." She looks at each of you, clearly unconcerned about the various puddles of vomit now adorning her floor and furniture, "The spell has ALWAYS succeeded the first time the cleric attempted to cast it. The demon is exorcised and the spell is cast successfully, containing it in the Emberheart Amulet." She continues to look to each face, settling on each for a few seconds, as if searching for something, "But no so this time. The spell continued to fail after multiple castings. Some of you were even possessed! Something is not right... And I fear what this change portends..." Lady Elara stands and walks over to the picture of Janielle Emberstone, picking it up and looking at it for a moment before setting it back down. "We must find the amulet as quickly as possible. I can only assume that the changes wrought were caused by the demon's growing power and influence..." She looks to you all again, "If that is so, we may already be too late."
"Truth be told, I would have rather just read the journal," Lash admits. "Seeing all that was interesting but I am not sure I learned much a written account wouldn't have told me."
"That's neither here nor there though," he says with a shake to get himself back on topic. "So we need to secure the amulet and what? Return it here?"
Kalhala, seeing the shape the mistress is in, leaps to his feet immediately. The story kind of registering with him, he looks around for a glass of water. Seeing none, he heads to the door, opens it and yells, "Hey! Um, uptight little mister? Oh what was it.." he scratches his head then it occurs to him, "Oh right! Petir, a glass of water please? For your mistress!" He adds the last part just in case he would ignore for one of them.
He turns back to the room, and addresses Lash, "Yes, I suppose she could have read from the journal, but man, that was quite a trip!" he look down at the mess he made and his excitement about it diminishes vastly, "Well, if she hadn't, we wouldn't know that things have changed... worsened apparently."
"Worsened... Yeah. I'd say that about covers it," Lash says distractedly, his mind not on the here and now but more on the memory of the clawed hand seemingly reach inside of him and pulling out... What was that tattered imaginary everything that it stole and clutched onto so greedily? Whatever it was Lash was sure it was his... And pretty sure he needed it.
Lady Elara nods and says, "Yes, as soon as possible. If we can get the amulet back to its reliquary the spells binding the demon will be renewed. As long as it is..." The rest of what she says is lost as suddenly you see in your mind's eye a vision of the amulet being placed within the reliquary. You feel waves of fury radiating from the amulet. In the present, an intense pain also erupts across your chest. Instinctively, you put your hand there and feel a few small bumps on your skin that are very painful to the touch. You also feel that same sense of loss again, like something isn't quite whole. If you'd like to try to hide your reaction to this experience, please make a CHA check using the Skill of your choice. If you'd rather be up front with what you experienced both in the vision and now, feel free to do so!
Kalhala - When you stick your head out in the hall, you are surprised to find Petir just outside the door. You very nearly knock him over and once he steadies himself, he clears his throat and makes a show of dusting an already spotless bust, "Yes? What is it? Lady Elara requires refreshments? Right away!" Before he goes, he makes sure to wipe away an imaginary mote of dust from the bust, giving you a smile before turning and marching toward the kitchens. Petir returns a few minutes later, he opens the door and bows, gesturing toward the four servants now pushing wheeled carts into the room. Each cart is laden with various finger foods, pitchers of drink, and desserts.
Norril -
You also experience the same vision as Lash and find the same painful bumps on your chest. If you'd like to try to hide your reaction to this experience, please make a CHA check using the Skill of your choice. If you'd rather be up front with what you experienced both in the vision and now, feel free to do so!
Lady Elara nods and says, "Yes, as soon as possible. If we can get the amulet back to its reliquary the spells binding the demon will be renewed. As long as it is..." The rest of what she says is lost as suddenly you see in your mind's eye a vision of the amulet being placed within the reliquary. You feel waves of fury radiating from the amulet. In the present, an intense pain also erupts across your chest. Instinctively, you put your hand there and feel a few small bumps on your skin that are very painful to the touch. You also feel that same sense of loss again, like something isn't quite whole. If you'd like to try to hide your reaction to this experience, please make a CHA check using the Skill of your choice. If you'd rather be up front with what you experienced both in the vision and now, feel free to do so!
Deception: 10
"Ugh..." Lash makes a noise and clutches his chest. After a moment to compose himself he looks around. "Oh, sorry. Delayed reaction, I guess. Though I was going to lose my lunch there too for a moment..."
Lash - Lady Elara stops speaking and looks concerned, "Are you well?" You see that she notices you clutch your chest, but seems to accept your explanation, "Is there aught Petir can get for you?" She gestures to the many food carts now filling the space, "Please, if nothing here is to your liking, I will send him for something to settle your stomach." Petir smiles stiffly and says through clenched teeth, "Oh there is plenty here I think!"
Lady Elara Insight - 10
Since it was a tie, I figured the best adjudication would be that she accepts your plausible explanation, and your deception goes undetected.
All - Lady Elara is able to answer any further questions you might have, otherwise she urges you to head to the Museum of Antiquities in the North Ward, but a few blocks from Lady Elara's estate.
Norill also follows Lash's lead, not knowing the others yet, and tries to cover it up. He looks knowingly at Lash and will wait for a moment when the two can talk in private.
Kalhala's eyes go wide as saucers as he takes in all the goodies on the carts. Rubbing his hands together and licking his lips, he looks to others to see what they are doing, but then figures, to hell with it, and dives in full heartedly.
With his mouth full, "Ah yes, the North Ward. That'd be good." Food has driven all questions out of his mind.
Cuervo is distracted by both her nausea and the embarrassment of vomiting. One hand on her stomach, that still feels somewhat delicate, she was surprised that Lash felt his chest when potentially going to be sick. But the thought passed quickly as she saw all of the food being paraded in front of her. Whoever thought that the cure for vomiting was food had a lot to learn about medicine! But she took a glass of water, to wash away the vile taste in her mouth.
Then, she stood with purpose. "I think action is the order of the day. Shall we go?"
Lash’s eyes catch those of Norill for a moment and there’s a flash of shared… something. Misery? Curiosity? Fear? Lash didn’t know for certain so he quickly turned away and tried to forget it for now.
“Big guy said the North Ward,” Lash says in agreement with Cuervo about leaving. “Lets depart do that friendly man with the smile can clean up..,”
Lash - You see Petir stiffen and narrow his eyes at you as you pass. He mutters something unkind under a false chuckle and turns to begin cleaning up the various vomit puddles and food carts.
All - As you all step through the gates of Lady Elara's estate and into the North Ward, you are greeted by a scene that encapsulates the city's vibrant diversity and architectural grandeur. The North Ward is known for its upscale neighborhoods, bustling markets, and luxurious estates, creating an atmosphere that balances wealth and culture. The street is lined with buildings of varying heights, styles, and colors, showcasing the city's rich history. Elaborate townhouses with decorative facades jostle for space alongside opulent mansions and well-maintained shops. The road beneath your feet is paved with cobblestones, giving the area a sense of old-world charm. While slightly uneven, the cobblestones reflect the neighborhood's character, having witnessed the passage of time and countless stories. The North Ward is alive with activity. Merchants and vendors set up shop along the street, offering a plethora of goods ranging from exotic fruits and fresh flowers to fine textiles and magical trinkets. The air is filled with the mingling scents of street food, perfumes, and the faint aroma of burning incense. The street is bustling with a diverse crowd. Well-dressed nobles stroll by, their elegant clothing and elaborate jewelry reflecting their social status. Artisans and tradespeople engage in animated conversations, haggling over prices and discussing their latest creations. City guards in their distinctive blue and silver uniforms maintain a watchful presence, ensuring order and safety.
You all have time to discuss the memory you experienced, your plan for investigating the Museum of Antiquities, or whatever else happens to come up in conversation as you head to your destination.
Kalhala takes in the sights of the North Ward. This was an area he had rarely been in, even when he was part of the City watch. The smells... oh the smells overwhelm and delight him. He constantly has his muzzle up in the air, taking them in and because of this is running into things a bit more than usual.
Apologizing constantly, the minotaur's smile never leaves his face as they head for the Museum of Antiquities. On their walk, he finally asks, "Ok, so what was that so called memory? I mean, wasn't that creepy possessing another body and feeling, well, EVERYTHING? And that demon..." Kalhala shudders at the memory.
Jowyn takes Kalhala's arm in hers, ostensibly to help him through the tangle of rich foods and - likely - overpriced wares, but it is as much for her own comfort.
"A shared memory. Feels like a shared dream. I've never experienced anything quite like that. Thought my heart was going to jump out my mouth a few times. The emotions were probably a side-effect of sharing another's memory, but..."
She sidesteps a well-dressed tabaxi selling glowing beads and continues.
"...but it's sobering to imagine facing that thing for real if it were to ever escape the amulet."
She shudders, ever so slightly. The adrenaline of the memory encounter is worn off. In its place is weariness and worry. She looks ahead sternly.
"How shall we handle the museum? Speak openly with the administrators or be covert? Both? I'm not particularly skilled in sneaking about, but the situation may call for it."
Smudge, the familiar, would have been summoned from her pocket dimension and been walking alongside Lash and the rest, at least until she grew bored of it and wanted to ride for a while in one of Lash's oversized pockets. Smudge is finicky so there is a lot of in and out of the pocket but Lash takes it all in stride.
"I couldn't call that a memory," he would note when the topic came up. He wasn't overly eager to discuss it but he would. At least most of it. "We changed things. Perhaps not the final outcome or anything important... But maybe. But if it was JUST a memory, I would have used whatever weapon the person whose memories I was viewing used. Not my old familiar whip. Chances are they didn't have my little magic either."
"So then a dream? Nightmare maybe but it still seemed... More. Like a reenactment, maybe? A weird play that is put on again and again but with different performers so that the lines and moves are all slightly different each performance," he considers aloud.
Lash makes eye contact and nods to the City Guards. Perhaps he recognized a couple, perhaps not. It's been a bit since he served. Still, those who do and did know the nod.
"I wouldn't worry too much about the museum. We drop the Lady's name, we ask for the gnome Theroc Lankcroft," Lash says with a wry grin. "If all that isn't enough to get us what we want we threaten to send the butler Petir after them..."
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DEX Save: 13
CON save: 2
Cuervo was acutely aware of the falling sensation and was somewhat impressed with herself that she managed to return to her seat with barely a wobble. The positive emotion was short-lived as she wretched once, then twice and finally projectile vomited whatever contents her stomach held. In her favour, she missed the assembled guests, but the carpet would take some time to rid itself of the awful stench.
Wiping away the remainder of the sick from the corner of her mouth, she mumbled an apology before commenting sheepishly that, "You'd probably want to have that cleaned up sooner than later. The smell might linger."
Kalhala leans over towards Cuervo and in a conspiratorial manor, "The butler is going to be piiiiissed."
All - As you shake off the vertigo and compose yourselves you notice that Lady Elara seems barely able to stand. She leans against the brick of the fireplace, her chest heaving and her body drenched in sweat, "I... I tried to stop it... I tried to pull you all back out... But I couldn't!" Her hands shake as she removes the moonstone diadem and lets it fall unceremoniously from her hand to the ground, "The memory was... changed somehow..." She reaches for the arm of a nearby divan and practically falls into it, still breathing hard and wiping sweat from her face. "Just give me a moment..." Lady Elara lays on the divan, working to steady her breathing and recover from the exertion. After a few minutes, she takes one more slow deep breath and opens her eyes. "I have experienced that memory dozens of times and never once has it deviated from the account Commander Emberstone recorded in his personal journal, which I possess." She sits upright a bit more and continues, "I have even allowed a select few to also experience the memory as well. The memory was unchanged." She looks at each of you, clearly unconcerned about the various puddles of vomit now adorning her floor and furniture, "The spell has ALWAYS succeeded the first time the cleric attempted to cast it. The demon is exorcised and the spell is cast successfully, containing it in the Emberheart Amulet." She continues to look to each face, settling on each for a few seconds, as if searching for something, "But no so this time. The spell continued to fail after multiple castings. Some of you were even possessed! Something is not right... And I fear what this change portends..." Lady Elara stands and walks over to the picture of Janielle Emberstone, picking it up and looking at it for a moment before setting it back down. "We must find the amulet as quickly as possible. I can only assume that the changes wrought were caused by the demon's growing power and influence..." She looks to you all again, "If that is so, we may already be too late."
"Truth be told, I would have rather just read the journal," Lash admits. "Seeing all that was interesting but I am not sure I learned much a written account wouldn't have told me."
"That's neither here nor there though," he says with a shake to get himself back on topic. "So we need to secure the amulet and what? Return it here?"
Kalhala, seeing the shape the mistress is in, leaps to his feet immediately. The story kind of registering with him, he looks around for a glass of water. Seeing none, he heads to the door, opens it and yells, "Hey! Um, uptight little mister? Oh what was it.." he scratches his head then it occurs to him, "Oh right! Petir, a glass of water please? For your mistress!" He adds the last part just in case he would ignore for one of them.
He turns back to the room, and addresses Lash, "Yes, I suppose she could have read from the journal, but man, that was quite a trip!" he look down at the mess he made and his excitement about it diminishes vastly, "Well, if she hadn't, we wouldn't know that things have changed... worsened apparently."
"Worsened... Yeah. I'd say that about covers it," Lash says distractedly, his mind not on the here and now but more on the memory of the clawed hand seemingly reach inside of him and pulling out... What was that tattered imaginary everything that it stole and clutched onto so greedily? Whatever it was Lash was sure it was his... And pretty sure he needed it.
"Definitely worsened..."
Lash -
Lady Elara nods and says, "Yes, as soon as possible. If we can get the amulet back to its reliquary the spells binding the demon will be renewed. As long as it is..." The rest of what she says is lost as suddenly you see in your mind's eye a vision of the amulet being placed within the reliquary. You feel waves of fury radiating from the amulet. In the present, an intense pain also erupts across your chest. Instinctively, you put your hand there and feel a few small bumps on your skin that are very painful to the touch. You also feel that same sense of loss again, like something isn't quite whole. If you'd like to try to hide your reaction to this experience, please make a CHA check using the Skill of your choice. If you'd rather be up front with what you experienced both in the vision and now, feel free to do so!
Kalhala - When you stick your head out in the hall, you are surprised to find Petir just outside the door. You very nearly knock him over and once he steadies himself, he clears his throat and makes a show of dusting an already spotless bust, "Yes? What is it? Lady Elara requires refreshments? Right away!" Before he goes, he makes sure to wipe away an imaginary mote of dust from the bust, giving you a smile before turning and marching toward the kitchens. Petir returns a few minutes later, he opens the door and bows, gesturing toward the four servants now pushing wheeled carts into the room. Each cart is laden with various finger foods, pitchers of drink, and desserts.
Norril -
You also experience the same vision as Lash and find the same painful bumps on your chest. If you'd like to try to hide your reaction to this experience, please make a CHA check using the Skill of your choice. If you'd rather be up front with what you experienced both in the vision and now, feel free to do so!
Deception: 10
"Ugh..." Lash makes a noise and clutches his chest. After a moment to compose himself he looks around. "Oh, sorry. Delayed reaction, I guess. Though I was going to lose my lunch there too for a moment..."
Lash - Lady Elara stops speaking and looks concerned, "Are you well?" You see that she notices you clutch your chest, but seems to accept your explanation, "Is there aught Petir can get for you?" She gestures to the many food carts now filling the space, "Please, if nothing here is to your liking, I will send him for something to settle your stomach." Petir smiles stiffly and says through clenched teeth, "Oh there is plenty here I think!"
Lady Elara Insight - 10
Since it was a tie, I figured the best adjudication would be that she accepts your plausible explanation, and your deception goes undetected.
All - Lady Elara is able to answer any further questions you might have, otherwise she urges you to head to the Museum of Antiquities in the North Ward, but a few blocks from Lady Elara's estate.
Norill Deception - 14
D&D since 1984
Norill also follows Lash's lead, not knowing the others yet, and tries to cover it up. He looks knowingly at Lash and will wait for a moment when the two can talk in private.
D&D since 1984
Kalhala's eyes go wide as saucers as he takes in all the goodies on the carts. Rubbing his hands together and licking his lips, he looks to others to see what they are doing, but then figures, to hell with it, and dives in full heartedly.
With his mouth full, "Ah yes, the North Ward. That'd be good." Food has driven all questions out of his mind.
Cuervo is distracted by both her nausea and the embarrassment of vomiting. One hand on her stomach, that still feels somewhat delicate, she was surprised that Lash felt his chest when potentially going to be sick. But the thought passed quickly as she saw all of the food being paraded in front of her. Whoever thought that the cure for vomiting was food had a lot to learn about medicine! But she took a glass of water, to wash away the vile taste in her mouth.
Then, she stood with purpose. "I think action is the order of the day. Shall we go?"
Lash’s eyes catch those of Norill for a moment and there’s a flash of shared… something. Misery? Curiosity? Fear? Lash didn’t know for certain so he quickly turned away and tried to forget it for now.
“Big guy said the North Ward,” Lash says in agreement with Cuervo about leaving. “Lets depart do that friendly man with the smile can clean up..,”
Lash - You see Petir stiffen and narrow his eyes at you as you pass. He mutters something unkind under a false chuckle and turns to begin cleaning up the various vomit puddles and food carts.
All - As you all step through the gates of Lady Elara's estate and into the North Ward, you are greeted by a scene that encapsulates the city's vibrant diversity and architectural grandeur. The North Ward is known for its upscale neighborhoods, bustling markets, and luxurious estates, creating an atmosphere that balances wealth and culture. The street is lined with buildings of varying heights, styles, and colors, showcasing the city's rich history. Elaborate townhouses with decorative facades jostle for space alongside opulent mansions and well-maintained shops. The road beneath your feet is paved with cobblestones, giving the area a sense of old-world charm. While slightly uneven, the cobblestones reflect the neighborhood's character, having witnessed the passage of time and countless stories. The North Ward is alive with activity. Merchants and vendors set up shop along the street, offering a plethora of goods ranging from exotic fruits and fresh flowers to fine textiles and magical trinkets. The air is filled with the mingling scents of street food, perfumes, and the faint aroma of burning incense. The street is bustling with a diverse crowd. Well-dressed nobles stroll by, their elegant clothing and elaborate jewelry reflecting their social status. Artisans and tradespeople engage in animated conversations, haggling over prices and discussing their latest creations. City guards in their distinctive blue and silver uniforms maintain a watchful presence, ensuring order and safety.
You all have time to discuss the memory you experienced, your plan for investigating the Museum of Antiquities, or whatever else happens to come up in conversation as you head to your destination.
Kalhala takes in the sights of the North Ward. This was an area he had rarely been in, even when he was part of the City watch. The smells... oh the smells overwhelm and delight him. He constantly has his muzzle up in the air, taking them in and because of this is running into things a bit more than usual.
Apologizing constantly, the minotaur's smile never leaves his face as they head for the Museum of Antiquities. On their walk, he finally asks, "Ok, so what was that so called memory? I mean, wasn't that creepy possessing another body and feeling, well, EVERYTHING? And that demon..." Kalhala shudders at the memory.
Jowyn takes Kalhala's arm in hers, ostensibly to help him through the tangle of rich foods and - likely - overpriced wares, but it is as much for her own comfort.
"A shared memory. Feels like a shared dream. I've never experienced anything quite like that. Thought my heart was going to jump out my mouth a few times. The emotions were probably a side-effect of sharing another's memory, but..."
She sidesteps a well-dressed tabaxi selling glowing beads and continues.
"...but it's sobering to imagine facing that thing for real if it were to ever escape the amulet."
She shudders, ever so slightly. The adrenaline of the memory encounter is worn off. In its place is weariness and worry. She looks ahead sternly.
"How shall we handle the museum? Speak openly with the administrators or be covert? Both? I'm not particularly skilled in sneaking about, but the situation may call for it."
Smudge, the familiar, would have been summoned from her pocket dimension and been walking alongside Lash and the rest, at least until she grew bored of it and wanted to ride for a while in one of Lash's oversized pockets. Smudge is finicky so there is a lot of in and out of the pocket but Lash takes it all in stride.
"I couldn't call that a memory," he would note when the topic came up. He wasn't overly eager to discuss it but he would. At least most of it. "We changed things. Perhaps not the final outcome or anything important... But maybe. But if it was JUST a memory, I would have used whatever weapon the person whose memories I was viewing used. Not my old familiar whip. Chances are they didn't have my little magic either."
"So then a dream? Nightmare maybe but it still seemed... More. Like a reenactment, maybe? A weird play that is put on again and again but with different performers so that the lines and moves are all slightly different each performance," he considers aloud.
Lash makes eye contact and nods to the City Guards. Perhaps he recognized a couple, perhaps not. It's been a bit since he served. Still, those who do and did know the nod.
"I wouldn't worry too much about the museum. We drop the Lady's name, we ask for the gnome Theroc Lankcroft," Lash says with a wry grin. "If all that isn't enough to get us what we want we threaten to send the butler Petir after them..."