Akkron picks up the staff and examines it for a few moments...
Yes... in this item as well I can sense Sserah's presence, he says. It seems that much of the power that the being within that you call 'Stafford' wields over your ability to shift is largely because of that fragment of Sserah which is latched onto him.
He look at Tytus' ring, then TruthSeeker, and quickly confirms that a portion of the dragon lord's spirit is in the ring... but, unsurprisingly, not in the Paladin's sword. He takes a seat and looks at all of you.
Five of the seven are in your possession... he says contemplatively. I still have possession of the sixth... and I doubt it will come as any surprise to you that Firion holds the seventh. I will say this now: it is not wise to keep these items together... there is too much of a risk that all of them will fall into Firion's hands.
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Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
The sorceress picks up Stafford from the lich's hands, handling him more gently now that is has been confirmed that there is an unwanted pressence latched onto him. Unconsciously caressing the staff with the tips of her fingers, she keeps listening to Lord Akkron and blinks with surprise when he finishes speaking.
- Do you mean that ... we should part ways? But ... but won't that make us easier preys to Firion? I mean, he would of course have more targets to chase, but won't that make us weaker targets at the same time?
Rhaenys looks at her friends, clearly worried. While it is true that she's only known them for a few days and that one such as her - so prone to change as the wind itself - has never had much difficulty leaving anyone behind, she now finds the thought unappealing.
I'm afraid that is exactly what I am suggesting, he says. I have some ideas of how you can protect yourselves from the Cult, but it is far too dangerous to keep five pieces of Sserah's soul together. There is a reason that the seven pieces were scattered to the corners of the world before.
He looks at all of you, taking a moment to asses each one.
Now... it is true that if each of you are all alone then it would be entirely possible for the Cultists to pick you off one at a time without resistance. Unfortunately, there are no guarantee in a situation like this one... but there are still precautions that can be taken.
"Keeping ourselves safe, and the fragments of soul from the cult, is something I'm sure we can all agree on, but we also came here hoping to find a way to remove the curses from our items," Korba says, looking to the lich and the others of the group. "Is that possible?"
Hewelathan has so many questions. When the lich sits down and seems to be settling in for a longer conversation, he finally transforms back into his regular half-elf form. He jumps right into the conversation: "Yes, as Korba says, we hoped to rid the items of the fragments of Sserah's soul and remove their curses so that we could keep the items. It took me many years to find this magical belt, and I would not destroy it lightly. On the other hand, if we must destroy these items to rid the world of the danger of Sserah, then that's what we must do. What do you recommend? That we transfer this burden from our items to someone other items? To trap the dragon's spirit or somehow destroy it? How would we even go about doing that?"
Some time after Hewelathan gets an answer to that question, he asks, "What is the cursed item that Firion already has in his possession?"
And later, "You said that you still possess one of the magical items that holds a fragment of the dragon's soul. Would that be a 'deck of cards'? What are its powers?"
I'm afraid that is exactly what I am suggesting, he says. I have some ideas of how you can protect yourselves from the Cult, but it is far too dangerous to keep five pieces of Sserah's soul together. There is a reason that the seven pieces were scattered to the corners of the world before.
- I guess - Rhaenys begins to say, not without worry in her voice - ... I guess I'm the obvious choice. My shapeshifting abilities may not be fully under my control, but they still work magnificently when trying to go unnoticed.
The sorceress falls silent, thinking of all the implications of what she's just said. For starters: where should she go?
- I think I could go ... - she begins to say, but then realizes sharing that with the others would be a mistake. She smiles lightly - We'd better keep that to ourselves, right, buddy? - she adds, glancing at Stafford.
Rhaenys exhales deeply, and then begins searching her shoulder bag.
- Let's see. I think it's better you kept these - she says, producing Hewelathan's Signal Whistle along with the two gemstones and the cultist amulet she picked up after the boat fight and gives them to the druid - and it's probably better if you guys kept the Elven chain I can always return to my arcane armor if needed...
She takes a moment to remove the armour and gives it back to Jodie. Once she is done, the white-skinned and white-haired changeling looks at her former companions one by one. There is sadness in her eyes, even though she is smiling:
- I'm going to miss you all. Do take care, okay?
"They'll be fine, dear. And so will we", Stafford whispers. This seems to confort the sorceress, who nods to hersef and lturns to look at Lord Akkron, saying nothing aloud but speaking directly to his mind.
"I am ready."
(OOC: Thank you all! Been a pleasure playing this crazy changeling and her chatty staff! Hope you guys kick many cultist asses! 😁)
- Let's see. I think it's better you kept these - she says, producing Hewelathan's Signal Whistle along with the two gemstones and the cultist amulet she picked up after the boat fight and gives them to the druid - and it's probably better if you guys kept the Elven chain I can always return to my arcane armor if needed...
Hewelathan takes the items from Rhaenys but looks sad and distressed. In an agitated tone, he shoots a question to the lich, "So, we are each to go our own separate way? That's your plan?! Because I don't think that any of us could have resisted the attacks from Firion's cult. Not on our own. Even with Stafford, Rhaenys would be vulnerable if she were attacked in force on her own. The wolves separate one animal from the herd to bring it down. Let's not give Firion that advantage. There is strength in numbers!"
- I'm going to miss you all. Do take care, okay?
Hewelathan moves forward and takes Rhaenys head in his hands. Speaking in Elvish, he whispers a prayer, blessing her as a friend of the Wild world and wishing her safe travels, as swift as the deer, as quiet as the fox, and as hidden as the octopus, who can also change its skin to blend in with his surroundings.
(OOC: Thank you all! Been a pleasure playing this crazy changeling and her chatty staff! Hope you guys kick many cultist asses! 😁)
"I should go as well," Tytus says, suddenly reminding everyone that he's here. "For the same reason as Rhaenys... I can disappear just as easily as she can, if not even more so."
Flinn seems to hesitate a moment, then he rises as well.
"And I... I will protect you as you find another way," he says hesitantly. "I mean... it sounds like the Cult has no reason to be interested in me, right?"
A few of the Clerics of Boccob approach, and the three follow them away to discuss what to do next. You can overhear for a few moments as they walk away; one of them tells Rhaenys that if she simply wishes to get back her ability to shift on her own, it may be possible to simply teach the spirit within the staff to relinquish that hold it has over her.
Meanwhile...
I am well aware of basic principles such as strength in numbers, the lich says, and... there is something in his voice. You are suddenly reminded that, even though he has been helpful so far, Lord Akkron is still a powerful lich. It might be unwise to test his patience. I have no intention of sending each of you away on your own and simply hoping that you get far enough that you will be beyond the cult's grasp.
But he sighs and addresses the question of actually removing the curses.
Yes, you can remove the shards from your items of power. But they must be bound to new items. Otherwise, every piece that is removed will be free, and you will have done Firion's task for him.
As to the item that Firion possesses, it is an ascendant dragon vessel. Once per day, the vessel can be used to create one of several potent potions... the most powerful of them being one that can transform its user into an adult dragon for an hour... I suspect that taking the form of a dragon was what allowed the shard of Sserah to take hold in Firion's mind and slowly pull him towards this path of absolute madness that he is on now.
Now, my item... Yes, it is the deck of cards that the drider was sent to steal from me. The deck can be used to manipulate fate, change misfortune to fortune and the reverse. But there is a cost to that power, for there were fourteen souls trapped within the deck... fourteen of the most dangerous, corrupted souls known to this world. Each time that fate is twisted with the deck, there is a chance that one of these souls could be released back upon the world. And... when all fourteen are released, that will free the piece of Sserah's soul as well.
He pauses thoughtfully after explaining the properties of these two artifacts.
If you wish to remove the cursed shards of Sserah from your artifacts, then there is something you will need, he says after a moment. Another artifact of legendary power. Unfortunately, I cannot retrieve it for you. If I leave this island, I fear that Firion and his cultists would immediately set upon the island and slaughter my people when I am not here to protect them. And... the one who holds it is someone whose face I never wish to see again.
I am well aware of basic principles such as strength in numbers, the lich says, and... there is something in his voice. You are suddenly reminded that, even though he has been helpful so far, Lord Akkron is still a powerful lich. It might be unwise to test his patience. I have no intention of sending each of you away on your own and simply hoping that you get far enough that you will be beyond the cult's grasp.
Hewelathan may be a little too blunt and emotional when dealing with people, but at least he's insightful enough to notice the change in Lord Akkron's tone. The half-elf forces himself to calm down and relax his shoulders and unclench his hands. Even if it didn't come to a fight with the lich, he reminds himself that the Cult of the Dragon has been right behind (or sometimes already ahead) of them ever since the Temple of Ilmater. They need this creature's assistance if they hope to survive once they leave the island and Lord Akkron's protection.
Hewelathan swallows his anxiety and sadness at having to split up the party, and he says, "Yes, of course, Lord Akkron. I beg your pardon." His voice still sounds a little hard and sullen, but the sentiment is sincere.
"But even if we're just splitting into two groups...", he continues. Hewelathan's voice trails off as he looks after the Accursed who are being led away, wondering for a moment whether they would ever see each other again in this life. He looks back to Korba and Jodie for reassurance and smiles at them. He says, half to Lord Akkron and half to the two other Accursed, "I just meant...well...without Rhaenys and her staff, for example, we will be hard-pressed to fend off Firion's spell casters. She's the one who broke the enchantment that forced Jarden to spy on us. And her telepathy was an excellent way to coordinate the group in the presence of spies or to exchange messages when we could be the subject of scrying. I worry about how the three of us will fare against Firion's agents, especially if they come at us in force."
But he sighs and addresses the question of actually removing the curses.
Yes, you can remove the shards from your items of power. But they must be bound to new items. Otherwise, every piece that is removed will be free, and you will have done Firion's task for him.
As to the item that Firion possesses....
Now, my item....
Hewelathan listens with interest. He really is fascinated by powerful magic items. But his eyes grow wide at the explanation of Firion's dragon vessel, realizing again how outmatched they are. What if Firion really did come after them in the form of a fully-grown adult dragon?! He gives Korba and Jodie and anxious glance to see whether they look as frightened as he feels.
(OOC: I'm going to leave it there for a day or two since I was online so much today. Want to give @kevtr0n and @Faux_Beau a chance to react to the rest of Lord Akkron's suggestions.)
Korba listens, and is relieved to hear that it may be possible to remove the curse and place it somewhere else. Though he first asks, "This other item of legends... would we be able to put all of our fragments of soul into it? And once we have done so, what should be done with it? Could it simply be discarded into the depths? Never to see the air or light of day again?"
Then pondering for a moment says, "Might it be possible to make it appear as if you have left the island? Would that lure the Cult here? If so, with you still here, and us with the power we have, perhaps we could end this cult in its tracks, giving us more freedom to track down this item in order to remove the pieces of soul from our things."
I do not particularly like the idea of putting three of the seven pieces into a single vessel, the lich says. It would be preferable to use a separate vessel for each shard; I have more than enough items that would make viable containers for the fragments. After they have been housed, they can be scattered to planes of reality that will be nearly impossible for even a powerful wizard such as Firion to retrieve.
Now... the idea of goading the Cult into attacking is intriguing... but it would be a risk. A clash between myself and Firion will cause immense collateral damage, and I do not wish for my people to be caught in the middle of such a conflict. Though in truth, I suspect that he is aware that I have the final shard of Sserah's soul. It is likely only a matter of time before the cult grows bold enough to challenge me in my own domain.
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Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
She takes a moment to remove the armour and gives it back to Jodie. Once she is done, the white-skinned and white-haired changeling looks at her former companions one by one. There is sadness in her eyes, even though she is smiling:
- I'm going to miss you all. Do take care, okay?
(OOC: Thank you all! Been a pleasure playing this crazy changeling and her chatty staff! Hope you guys kick many cultist asses! 😁)
Jodie gets a bit teary and gives the three departing companions big hugs. "I always hate it when bands break up. Especially when we were getting on so well..."
Jodie accepts the elven chain from Rhaenys and looks at Korba. "How about you take the mithral half-plate? Dynamics are shifting a little. If I dance around my enemies, the won't be able to catch me."
Great playing with you @Fairlthilien. Your posts always had an impressively level of detail and care. I appreciate the time you put into them. It really added a lot of flavor.
I do not particularly like the idea of putting three of the seven pieces into a single vessel, the lich says. It would be preferable to use a separate vessel for each shard; I have more than enough items that would make viable containers for the fragments. After they have been housed, they can be scattered to planes of reality that will be nearly impossible for even a powerful wizard such as Firion to retrieve.
Jodie realizes the task Lord Akkron proposes really just shifts the problem to another item they don't even have. "Or we scatter our own items across the planes of reality. I'd like the harp to be rid of Smiler and the piece of Ssresh's soul. But I have a feeling finding the items is not going to be easy, especially with the cult in pursuit."
Jodie thinks a bit about the lich's statement of having an abundance of legendary magic items. Surely Lord Akkron would have access to many common items. "Hey, I don't suppose you have some extra warding amulets? I'd sleep a lot safer knowing the cult wasn't bound to show up any moment."
"Well, regardless of where the soul pieces go, they cannot be removed from our things without this other artifact,"Korba summarizes, coming to a conclusion. "Is this correct? And then with it, we can use some of the things in your possession to contain the fragments in order to be dealt with later. It seems that if we want Smiler, and the other less desirable parts of our own items to be removed, we know where we have to go next... or... at least what we need to find. Ser Akkron, what, and where, is this artifact that is needed to deal with soul fragments which are cursing us?"
As the others leave, Korba only hopes that they will be able to deal with their items on their own, though is almost conflicted to see that their items were not cursed with the same soul fragments. It means that there are other items out there which may need to be discovered as well... He then thanks Jodie for the armor and nods in agreement when she asks for the amulets which may keep them from being easily discovered.
\this other artifact,"Korba summarizes, coming to a conclusion. "Is this correct? And then with it, we can use some of the things in your possession to contain the fragments in order to be dealt with later. It seems that if we want Smiler, and the other less desirable parts of our own items to be removed, we know where we have to go next... or... at least what we need to find. Ser Akkron, what, and where, is this artifact that is needed to deal with soul fragments which are cursing us?"
Hewelathan thinks that Korba summarized the lich's explanation well and asked the right questions. Once Lord Akkron tells them what and where and from whom they can find this other artifact, he wants to clarify their next steps. He tries to confirm the overall plan, "Lord Akkron, your suggestion is that we should find this other artifact next and then return to your island again? And then you -- or the followers of Boccob here? -- will help us extract the curses from our items into other magic items? And then who would scatter those newly-cursed items 'across the planes of reality?' Is that something that we would have to do?"
If you wish to be free of your curses but do not wish to give up your items... then yes, that is what I suggest, he says tiredly.
He lifts a hand, conjuring into existence an image of a longsword which looks as if it is made of solid gold.
The item you see before you is a luck blade... like my deck, it is able to twist fate. But... the one in particular that you will need to find has an additional property. It can be used three times to cast the single most powerful spell that mortals can cast... the spell simply known as wish. When you stand on the ethereal plane, each of you will be able to use one of the wishes to banish the portion of Sserah's soul from your item.
He hesitates a moment before revealing the actual whereabouts of the item...
The item is in the hands of the one who is responsible for what has become of this island, he says at last. What is left of her, at least... for her crimes she was condemned to spend eternity as the guardian of power that she craves but can never again possess.
He then reluctantly goes into greater detail regarding the holder of the item, and where both can be found. She was once the Drow high priestess named Talice. She was the one who seduced and betrayed the creature before you when he was still a young man. The one who bore his child and the one who killed her. And now, just like the man who once loved her, she to has joined the ranks of the undead. The tomb where she and the item lie is within the Underdark, in the ruins of a Drow city that was abandoned centuries ago.
He sighs when he is finished with the explanation.
There are others on the island who may be able to help you if you choose to rid yourselves of the shards of Sserah this way... others who have been driven to these shores because they were tormented by powerful dark magic that they could not rid themselves of.
((History 11 😐 ((or 23 if adv from being raised in the UD)) to see if Korba knows anything about this long abandoned Drow city))
After listening to Hewelathan and Akkron discuss, he adds, "If we are to bring the sword back here to place the soul fragments into other items in your possession, does that not all but ensure that the Cult will come here? Having all of the soul fragments in one place, as they already are it seems, would be very tempting. We should be on our way quickly so that we can draw them away, and while we are gone it would be good if you prepare for their imminent attack."He then thinks for a minute and says, "Is there any way that we can hide ourselves from the Cult while we travel other than the amulet Jodie mentioned?"
If you wish to be free of your curses but do not wish to give up your items... then yes, that is what I suggest, he says tiredly.
Hewelathan listens with rapt attention. His eyes sparkle at the mention of the Luck Blade and its powerful magic. Once Lord Akkron is finishes his explanations, Hewelathan amends what he said before: "OK, so just to make sure I understand...the plan is to travel to the Underdark where we need to find the priestess's tomb in an abandoned city of the Drow elves. Then we'll need to get the magic sword from the (undead) priestess and return with it back here to the Shaded Isle. Once we do that, you'll give us new items that can be used to hold the shards of Sserrah's soul. We will take those items and the sword to the Ethereal plan...somehow, where we'll use the sword's powers to transfer the shards of Dragon Lord Sserrah Nightbane's soul from our cursed objects to the new items. At that point, our magical items will be free of their curses! Finally, those newly-cursed items will need to be scattered across the planes of reality."
Hewelathan adds one question. He struggles to find a way to ask it without angering the lich again, "When the druids help to negotiate treaties and agreements, it is important that all parties understand the details before they agree. What are their responsibilities? What benefits are guaranteed? And, importantly, what are the costs? We thank you for your adivce and your help, but I must ask...
"Do you offer this advice and assistance freely? Or do you ask something from us in return?"
There are others on the island who may be able to help you
Hewelathan is glad to hear it. He looks at Korba and Jodie, not wanting to speak for them, but he says, "For my part, I'd welcome the assistance! We (three) have no choice but to go forward. Even if we were content to hold these accursed magical items, the threat from Firion's and his Cult of the Dragon would force us to attempt this quest. But I fear that there is little hope of success on our own. Even a few battle-tested adventurers would be a great help! I'd be glad to welcome others on our mission, but they must be told that we are in mortal danger from the cult -- not to mention the danger of quest we are about to undertake!"
Akkron pauses a moment when asked about payment... then... he makes a sound that you realize is a laugh.
Do I want something in return? he echoes. Let me ask you something: what do you think it would mean for me and for my people if Sserah were to return? Do you think that she would simply forget when I helped to tear her soul apart? All I ask is that you come to the aid of the Shaded Isle when the Cult inevitably grows bold enough to lay siege to my domain. We will need every soldier we can gather when that happens. In the meantime, I need to contact Baron Ryder... now that you are here, I am sure the dragon cultists are not far behind.
As to hiding yourselves from their prying eyes... the cult use both magical and mundane means to trace their foes... on this island you are relatively safe from magical detection, but as we just saw they still have spies who will use any means necessary to try to trace your steps. I can find a few spell scrolls to help mitigate that risk, but there is no such thing as a perfect defense.
Hewelathan is simply happy that the lich did not exact some grim toll on the party. He gives a hearty laugh, saying, "Ho ho ho! I'm glad that you have confidence that we'll survive the quest to the Underdark and the cult's agents and whatever else we encounter!" Speaking of the curse reminds him that Korba cut himself when handing the lich his sword. Hewelathan rummages in a pouch for a moment and hands Korba a goodberry from the batch that he created the previous night. He hands to the berry to Korba, saying, "Take this: it will help with the cut. It is inauspicious to begin a new endeavor while injured."
(OOC: @kevtr0n - the berry heals 3 HP because of the bonus from his moon sickle.)
Hewelathan watches Korba to ensure that the "medicine" works. He speaks to both Korba and Jodie now, "Assuming that we're still alive when the Cult really attacks the Shaded Isle in force, what say you? I would certainly be happy to come to the defense of Lord Akkron's people against Firion and his cult. Of course, we've gotten a hint of what Lord Akkron and Firion can each do on their own. I do not look forward to getting in between two such wizards, but maybe we can help beat back the cult's other forces?" He turns back to Lord Akkron to explain,"So far, we've just been able to pick off one or three of the cultists at a time. And no one as powerful as Firion. But we'll do what we can if...I mean...how would we know when the Shaded Isle is under attack?"
Finally, hearing Lord Akkron mention Baron Ryder, Hewelathan raises a question that he's been wanting to ask, "Yes, we've heard of this Baron Ryder a couple of times in connection with the Cult of the Dragon. Who is he? And why is the cult so interested in his lands?"
Akkron picks up the staff and examines it for a few moments...
Yes... in this item as well I can sense Sserah's presence, he says. It seems that much of the power that the being within that you call 'Stafford' wields over your ability to shift is largely because of that fragment of Sserah which is latched onto him.
He look at Tytus' ring, then TruthSeeker, and quickly confirms that a portion of the dragon lord's spirit is in the ring... but, unsurprisingly, not in the Paladin's sword. He takes a seat and looks at all of you.
Five of the seven are in your possession... he says contemplatively. I still have possession of the sixth... and I doubt it will come as any surprise to you that Firion holds the seventh. I will say this now: it is not wise to keep these items together... there is too much of a risk that all of them will fall into Firion's hands.
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The sorceress picks up Stafford from the lich's hands, handling him more gently now that is has been confirmed that there is an unwanted pressence latched onto him. Unconsciously caressing the staff with the tips of her fingers, she keeps listening to Lord Akkron and blinks with surprise when he finishes speaking.
- Do you mean that ... we should part ways? But ... but won't that make us easier preys to Firion? I mean, he would of course have more targets to chase, but won't that make us weaker targets at the same time?
Rhaenys looks at her friends, clearly worried. While it is true that she's only known them for a few days and that one such as her - so prone to change as the wind itself - has never had much difficulty leaving anyone behind, she now finds the thought unappealing.
Diving deep to the surface ♫ Nessa | Saxa | Auriel | Chase | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
The lich nods.
I'm afraid that is exactly what I am suggesting, he says. I have some ideas of how you can protect yourselves from the Cult, but it is far too dangerous to keep five pieces of Sserah's soul together. There is a reason that the seven pieces were scattered to the corners of the world before.
He looks at all of you, taking a moment to asses each one.
Now... it is true that if each of you are all alone then it would be entirely possible for the Cultists to pick you off one at a time without resistance. Unfortunately, there are no guarantee in a situation like this one... but there are still precautions that can be taken.
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"Keeping ourselves safe, and the fragments of soul from the cult, is something I'm sure we can all agree on, but we also came here hoping to find a way to remove the curses from our items," Korba says, looking to the lich and the others of the group. "Is that possible?"
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
Hewelathan has so many questions. When the lich sits down and seems to be settling in for a longer conversation, he finally transforms back into his regular half-elf form. He jumps right into the conversation: "Yes, as Korba says, we hoped to rid the items of the fragments of Sserah's soul and remove their curses so that we could keep the items. It took me many years to find this magical belt, and I would not destroy it lightly. On the other hand, if we must destroy these items to rid the world of the danger of Sserah, then that's what we must do. What do you recommend? That we transfer this burden from our items to someone other items? To trap the dragon's spirit or somehow destroy it? How would we even go about doing that?"
Some time after Hewelathan gets an answer to that question, he asks, "What is the cursed item that Firion already has in his possession?"
And later, "You said that you still possess one of the magical items that holds a fragment of the dragon's soul. Would that be a 'deck of cards'? What are its powers?"
- I guess - Rhaenys begins to say, not without worry in her voice - ... I guess I'm the obvious choice. My shapeshifting abilities may not be fully under my control, but they still work magnificently when trying to go unnoticed.
The sorceress falls silent, thinking of all the implications of what she's just said. For starters: where should she go?
- I think I could go ... - she begins to say, but then realizes sharing that with the others would be a mistake. She smiles lightly - We'd better keep that to ourselves, right, buddy? - she adds, glancing at Stafford.
Rhaenys exhales deeply, and then begins searching her shoulder bag.
- Let's see. I think it's better you kept these - she says, producing Hewelathan's Signal Whistle along with the two gemstones and the cultist amulet she picked up after the boat fight and gives them to the druid - and it's probably better if you guys kept the Elven chain I can always return to my arcane armor if needed...
She takes a moment to remove the armour and gives it back to Jodie. Once she is done, the white-skinned and white-haired changeling looks at her former companions one by one. There is sadness in her eyes, even though she is smiling:
- I'm going to miss you all. Do take care, okay?
"They'll be fine, dear. And so will we", Stafford whispers. This seems to confort the sorceress, who nods to hersef and lturns to look at Lord Akkron, saying nothing aloud but speaking directly to his mind.
"I am ready."
(OOC: Thank you all! Been a pleasure playing this crazy changeling and her chatty staff! Hope you guys kick many cultist asses! 😁)
Diving deep to the surface ♫ Nessa | Saxa | Auriel | Chase | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Hewelathan takes the items from Rhaenys but looks sad and distressed. In an agitated tone, he shoots a question to the lich, "So, we are each to go our own separate way? That's your plan?! Because I don't think that any of us could have resisted the attacks from Firion's cult. Not on our own. Even with Stafford, Rhaenys would be vulnerable if she were attacked in force on her own. The wolves separate one animal from the herd to bring it down. Let's not give Firion that advantage. There is strength in numbers!"
Hewelathan moves forward and takes Rhaenys head in his hands. Speaking in Elvish, he whispers a prayer, blessing her as a friend of the Wild world and wishing her safe travels, as swift as the deer, as quiet as the fox, and as hidden as the octopus, who can also change its skin to blend in with his surroundings.
(OOC: Take care, and happy gaming!)
"I should go as well," Tytus says, suddenly reminding everyone that he's here. "For the same reason as Rhaenys... I can disappear just as easily as she can, if not even more so."
Flinn seems to hesitate a moment, then he rises as well.
"And I... I will protect you as you find another way," he says hesitantly. "I mean... it sounds like the Cult has no reason to be interested in me, right?"
A few of the Clerics of Boccob approach, and the three follow them away to discuss what to do next. You can overhear for a few moments as they walk away; one of them tells Rhaenys that if she simply wishes to get back her ability to shift on her own, it may be possible to simply teach the spirit within the staff to relinquish that hold it has over her.
Meanwhile...
I am well aware of basic principles such as strength in numbers, the lich says, and... there is something in his voice. You are suddenly reminded that, even though he has been helpful so far, Lord Akkron is still a powerful lich. It might be unwise to test his patience. I have no intention of sending each of you away on your own and simply hoping that you get far enough that you will be beyond the cult's grasp.
But he sighs and addresses the question of actually removing the curses.
Yes, you can remove the shards from your items of power. But they must be bound to new items. Otherwise, every piece that is removed will be free, and you will have done Firion's task for him.
As to the item that Firion possesses, it is an ascendant dragon vessel. Once per day, the vessel can be used to create one of several potent potions... the most powerful of them being one that can transform its user into an adult dragon for an hour... I suspect that taking the form of a dragon was what allowed the shard of Sserah to take hold in Firion's mind and slowly pull him towards this path of absolute madness that he is on now.
Now, my item... Yes, it is the deck of cards that the drider was sent to steal from me. The deck can be used to manipulate fate, change misfortune to fortune and the reverse. But there is a cost to that power, for there were fourteen souls trapped within the deck... fourteen of the most dangerous, corrupted souls known to this world. Each time that fate is twisted with the deck, there is a chance that one of these souls could be released back upon the world. And... when all fourteen are released, that will free the piece of Sserah's soul as well.
He pauses thoughtfully after explaining the properties of these two artifacts.
If you wish to remove the cursed shards of Sserah from your artifacts, then there is something you will need, he says after a moment. Another artifact of legendary power. Unfortunately, I cannot retrieve it for you. If I leave this island, I fear that Firion and his cultists would immediately set upon the island and slaughter my people when I am not here to protect them. And... the one who holds it is someone whose face I never wish to see again.
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Hewelathan may be a little too blunt and emotional when dealing with people, but at least he's insightful enough to notice the change in Lord Akkron's tone. The half-elf forces himself to calm down and relax his shoulders and unclench his hands. Even if it didn't come to a fight with the lich, he reminds himself that the Cult of the Dragon has been right behind (or sometimes already ahead) of them ever since the Temple of Ilmater. They need this creature's assistance if they hope to survive once they leave the island and Lord Akkron's protection.
Hewelathan swallows his anxiety and sadness at having to split up the party, and he says, "Yes, of course, Lord Akkron. I beg your pardon." His voice still sounds a little hard and sullen, but the sentiment is sincere.
"But even if we're just splitting into two groups...", he continues. Hewelathan's voice trails off as he looks after the Accursed who are being led away, wondering for a moment whether they would ever see each other again in this life. He looks back to Korba and Jodie for reassurance and smiles at them. He says, half to Lord Akkron and half to the two other Accursed, "I just meant...well...without Rhaenys and her staff, for example, we will be hard-pressed to fend off Firion's spell casters. She's the one who broke the enchantment that forced Jarden to spy on us. And her telepathy was an excellent way to coordinate the group in the presence of spies or to exchange messages when we could be the subject of scrying. I worry about how the three of us will fare against Firion's agents, especially if they come at us in force."
Hewelathan listens with interest. He really is fascinated by powerful magic items. But his eyes grow wide at the explanation of Firion's dragon vessel, realizing again how outmatched they are. What if Firion really did come after them in the form of a fully-grown adult dragon?! He gives Korba and Jodie and anxious glance to see whether they look as frightened as he feels.
(OOC: I'm going to leave it there for a day or two since I was online so much today. Want to give @kevtr0n and @Faux_Beau a chance to react to the rest of Lord Akkron's suggestions.)
Korba listens, and is relieved to hear that it may be possible to remove the curse and place it somewhere else. Though he first asks, "This other item of legends... would we be able to put all of our fragments of soul into it? And once we have done so, what should be done with it? Could it simply be discarded into the depths? Never to see the air or light of day again?"
Then pondering for a moment says, "Might it be possible to make it appear as if you have left the island? Would that lure the Cult here? If so, with you still here, and us with the power we have, perhaps we could end this cult in its tracks, giving us more freedom to track down this item in order to remove the pieces of soul from our things."
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
I do not particularly like the idea of putting three of the seven pieces into a single vessel, the lich says. It would be preferable to use a separate vessel for each shard; I have more than enough items that would make viable containers for the fragments. After they have been housed, they can be scattered to planes of reality that will be nearly impossible for even a powerful wizard such as Firion to retrieve.
Now... the idea of goading the Cult into attacking is intriguing... but it would be a risk. A clash between myself and Firion will cause immense collateral damage, and I do not wish for my people to be caught in the middle of such a conflict. Though in truth, I suspect that he is aware that I have the final shard of Sserah's soul. It is likely only a matter of time before the cult grows bold enough to challenge me in my own domain.
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Jodie gets a bit teary and gives the three departing companions big hugs. "I always hate it when bands break up. Especially when we were getting on so well..."
Jodie accepts the elven chain from Rhaenys and looks at Korba. "How about you take the mithral half-plate? Dynamics are shifting a little. If I dance around my enemies, the won't be able to catch me."
Great playing with you @Fairlthilien. Your posts always had an impressively level of detail and care. I appreciate the time you put into them. It really added a lot of flavor.
Fargen Hill Dwarf Cleric/Barbarian - Hoard of the Dragon Queen, Jodie Olwen Half-Elf Bard- Chronicles of the Accursed
Jodie realizes the task Lord Akkron proposes really just shifts the problem to another item they don't even have. "Or we scatter our own items across the planes of reality. I'd like the harp to be rid of Smiler and the piece of Ssresh's soul. But I have a feeling finding the items is not going to be easy, especially with the cult in pursuit."
Jodie thinks a bit about the lich's statement of having an abundance of legendary magic items. Surely Lord Akkron would have access to many common items. "Hey, I don't suppose you have some extra warding amulets? I'd sleep a lot safer knowing the cult wasn't bound to show up any moment."
Fargen Hill Dwarf Cleric/Barbarian - Hoard of the Dragon Queen, Jodie Olwen Half-Elf Bard- Chronicles of the Accursed
"Well, regardless of where the soul pieces go, they cannot be removed from our things without this other artifact," Korba summarizes, coming to a conclusion. "Is this correct? And then with it, we can use some of the things in your possession to contain the fragments in order to be dealt with later. It seems that if we want Smiler, and the other less desirable parts of our own items to be removed, we know where we have to go next... or... at least what we need to find. Ser Akkron, what, and where, is this artifact that is needed to deal with soul fragments which are cursing us?"
As the others leave, Korba only hopes that they will be able to deal with their items on their own, though is almost conflicted to see that their items were not cursed with the same soul fragments. It means that there are other items out there which may need to be discovered as well... He then thanks Jodie for the armor and nods in agreement when she asks for the amulets which may keep them from being easily discovered.
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
Hewelathan thinks that Korba summarized the lich's explanation well and asked the right questions. Once Lord Akkron tells them what and where and from whom they can find this other artifact, he wants to clarify their next steps. He tries to confirm the overall plan, "Lord Akkron, your suggestion is that we should find this other artifact next and then return to your island again? And then you -- or the followers of Boccob here? -- will help us extract the curses from our items into other magic items? And then who would scatter those newly-cursed items 'across the planes of reality?' Is that something that we would have to do?"
If you wish to be free of your curses but do not wish to give up your items... then yes, that is what I suggest, he says tiredly.
He lifts a hand, conjuring into existence an image of a longsword which looks as if it is made of solid gold.
The item you see before you is a luck blade... like my deck, it is able to twist fate. But... the one in particular that you will need to find has an additional property. It can be used three times to cast the single most powerful spell that mortals can cast... the spell simply known as wish. When you stand on the ethereal plane, each of you will be able to use one of the wishes to banish the portion of Sserah's soul from your item.
He hesitates a moment before revealing the actual whereabouts of the item...
The item is in the hands of the one who is responsible for what has become of this island, he says at last. What is left of her, at least... for her crimes she was condemned to spend eternity as the guardian of power that she craves but can never again possess.
He then reluctantly goes into greater detail regarding the holder of the item, and where both can be found. She was once the Drow high priestess named Talice. She was the one who seduced and betrayed the creature before you when he was still a young man. The one who bore his child and the one who killed her. And now, just like the man who once loved her, she to has joined the ranks of the undead. The tomb where she and the item lie is within the Underdark, in the ruins of a Drow city that was abandoned centuries ago.
He sighs when he is finished with the explanation.
There are others on the island who may be able to help you if you choose to rid yourselves of the shards of Sserah this way... others who have been driven to these shores because they were tormented by powerful dark magic that they could not rid themselves of.
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((History 11 😐 ((or 23 if adv from being raised in the UD)) to see if Korba knows anything about this long abandoned Drow city))
After listening to Hewelathan and Akkron discuss, he adds, "If we are to bring the sword back here to place the soul fragments into other items in your possession, does that not all but ensure that the Cult will come here? Having all of the soul fragments in one place, as they already are it seems, would be very tempting. We should be on our way quickly so that we can draw them away, and while we are gone it would be good if you prepare for their imminent attack." He then thinks for a minute and says, "Is there any way that we can hide ourselves from the Cult while we travel other than the amulet Jodie mentioned?"
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
Hewelathan listens with rapt attention. His eyes sparkle at the mention of the Luck Blade and its powerful magic. Once Lord Akkron is finishes his explanations, Hewelathan amends what he said before: "OK, so just to make sure I understand...the plan is to travel to the Underdark where we need to find the priestess's tomb in an abandoned city of the Drow elves. Then we'll need to get the magic sword from the (undead) priestess and return with it back here to the Shaded Isle. Once we do that, you'll give us new items that can be used to hold the shards of Sserrah's soul. We will take those items and the sword to the Ethereal plan...somehow, where we'll use the sword's powers to transfer the shards of Dragon Lord Sserrah Nightbane's soul from our cursed objects to the new items. At that point, our magical items will be free of their curses! Finally, those newly-cursed items will need to be scattered across the planes of reality."
Hewelathan adds one question. He struggles to find a way to ask it without angering the lich again, "When the druids help to negotiate treaties and agreements, it is important that all parties understand the details before they agree. What are their responsibilities? What benefits are guaranteed? And, importantly, what are the costs? We thank you for your adivce and your help, but I must ask...
"Do you offer this advice and assistance freely? Or do you ask something from us in return?"
Hewelathan is glad to hear it. He looks at Korba and Jodie, not wanting to speak for them, but he says, "For my part, I'd welcome the assistance! We (three) have no choice but to go forward. Even if we were content to hold these accursed magical items, the threat from Firion's and his Cult of the Dragon would force us to attempt this quest. But I fear that there is little hope of success on our own. Even a few battle-tested adventurers would be a great help! I'd be glad to welcome others on our mission, but they must be told that we are in mortal danger from the cult -- not to mention the danger of quest we are about to undertake!"
Akkron pauses a moment when asked about payment... then... he makes a sound that you realize is a laugh.
Do I want something in return? he echoes. Let me ask you something: what do you think it would mean for me and for my people if Sserah were to return? Do you think that she would simply forget when I helped to tear her soul apart? All I ask is that you come to the aid of the Shaded Isle when the Cult inevitably grows bold enough to lay siege to my domain. We will need every soldier we can gather when that happens. In the meantime, I need to contact Baron Ryder... now that you are here, I am sure the dragon cultists are not far behind.
As to hiding yourselves from their prying eyes... the cult use both magical and mundane means to trace their foes... on this island you are relatively safe from magical detection, but as we just saw they still have spies who will use any means necessary to try to trace your steps. I can find a few spell scrolls to help mitigate that risk, but there is no such thing as a perfect defense.
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Hewelathan is simply happy that the lich did not exact some grim toll on the party. He gives a hearty laugh, saying, "Ho ho ho! I'm glad that you have confidence that we'll survive the quest to the Underdark and the cult's agents and whatever else we encounter!" Speaking of the curse reminds him that Korba cut himself when handing the lich his sword. Hewelathan rummages in a pouch for a moment and hands Korba a goodberry from the batch that he created the previous night. He hands to the berry to Korba, saying, "Take this: it will help with the cut. It is inauspicious to begin a new endeavor while injured."
(OOC: @kevtr0n - the berry heals 3 HP because of the bonus from his moon sickle.)
Hewelathan watches Korba to ensure that the "medicine" works. He speaks to both Korba and Jodie now, "Assuming that we're still alive when the Cult really attacks the Shaded Isle in force, what say you? I would certainly be happy to come to the defense of Lord Akkron's people against Firion and his cult. Of course, we've gotten a hint of what Lord Akkron and Firion can each do on their own. I do not look forward to getting in between two such wizards, but maybe we can help beat back the cult's other forces?" He turns back to Lord Akkron to explain, "So far, we've just been able to pick off one or three of the cultists at a time. And no one as powerful as Firion. But we'll do what we can if...I mean...how would we know when the Shaded Isle is under attack?"
Finally, hearing Lord Akkron mention Baron Ryder, Hewelathan raises a question that he's been wanting to ask, "Yes, we've heard of this Baron Ryder a couple of times in connection with the Cult of the Dragon. Who is he? And why is the cult so interested in his lands?"