"She seems nice." Lyra's drawl is deadpan despite the intensity in her eyes.
As the snowy maelstrom subsides and the Veiled Moon vanishes, she appears unruffled except a relaxation of her slightly clenched fist. Lyra's voice regains its sing-song quality as she turns to her companions. She plays a quick riff on her harmonica to break the tension.
"I mistrust this cult of an elder god. They are utterly convinced that the return of their deity to this world is the only way forward, so much so that they are willing to enslave us and commit atrocities to achieve that end. Yet, knowing but little of such things, I immediately see two problems."
"First, their very willingness to use such vile means to achieve their ends does not speak well to what would befall this world under the return of their god, even if such a return would shield us from some enormous cataclysm."
"And second, even if she believes what she says, cults are often wrong... perhaps there is another way." Lyra sighs.
"Nevertheless, after we return to Vinande, we must decide whether to do as she suggests. Seek out this Sedrach Karvas where she sent it and destroy them if we can, perhaps with the help of fire. It could be she is truthful and slaying them will close the rift through which the shadows are coming. Or she could be using us as a catspaw again to do her bidding, as in fact, she seems to have been doing all along for over a month."
"More polite than I had imagined at least,"Ilya mentions, rubbing warmth back into her arms after the sudden snowstorm. There was little doubt in her mind that something divine had just occured, or perhaps not if this 'Maghda' was to be believed. It was hard to trust someone who had done such terrible things. And yet she found herself wondering about the things she had said of Imane's deities. Pretenders. Caretakers. It could be true.
"At the very least, she's revealed how important you all are to her. She was willing to give up someone she went through the trouble of tearing a hole through reality for. That could be leverage you use later."
"In any case...Regardless of whether or not killing Karvas will close the rift, he needs to be put down. That he's a monster who doesn't belong in this world is undeniable."
Kalamin shifts uncomfortably, disturbed by the pale woman's arguments, and the display of divine power to silence her. "Quickly then, back to Vinande to share what we've learned and drop off these supplies."
Leftenant wraps the cloak back around him, trying to regain some warmth. He calms his horse from the un-natural weather pattern. He was bewildered by all the events, all the happenings. Where was the truth in all of it. What was to be believed. For himself, he would need more time to sift through it all. To sort it out and analyze it, but he didn’t have the current means for deeper research on these subjects.
He looked to the others, impressed with each one in their own right. While he doubted his own importance to the greater machinations of cults and gods, he ponders if Maghda’s belief of his role was enough to lend strength to his actions against it all…or for it even.
”I can’t say where we will end up…” he begins, “but I think our next stop is back to Vinande as a start.”
He remounts the horse, ready to face what comes next. His heart heavy with a longing for peace he fears he won’t find.
"This business about the creature's heart seems important too.. I'm not sure how much we should trust what she said at face value, but if she took the trouble mention the heart we should probably pay it some mind. Not that I'm all that excited about trying to remove this thing's heart..." he trails off and shudders a bit at the thought of it.
"Either way, lets head back to Vinande. While we go I'll take a closer look at these things and see what I can make of them"
(OOC: When we enter travel time Glyp would sit in the cart and cast Identify on each of the magical items we picked up)
Lyra sees doubt in her companions' expressions, mirroring her own feelings, though she hides it well, playing a lively folk tune on her harmonica.
"Do not despair, friends. It is natural to feel uncertain. Held in thrall and used by Maghda's cult on one hand, attacked by the paramilitary force opposing them on the other. Unwitting pawns in a power struggle among gods, old and new, as exemplified by the moon-touched blizzard we just witnessed."
"One thing we have learned for certain - the only ones we can count on are ourselves. Let us have faith in each other. If we have agreed to return to Vinande, then track this aberration Seidrach Karvas to close the rift, then let us do so without reservation, keeping our eyes and ears open."
She passes quietly from one party member to another, speaking to each quietly, touching their shoulder. Attempting to lift their spirits on the journey back to Vinande. Trying to instill the notion that we are all in this together and none of us is alone.
Perhaps shaken, but not deterred by what you have witnessed, your group continues on the road back to Vinande as the sun finally begins to sink in the sky...
Sunset is upon you by the time you arrive back at the walled village. A guard at the gate lets you, calling on a few others to help unload the supplies you've brought back. Davenforth approaches you as that's going on, "a good haul." He says, eyeing the supplies as they're offloaded from the cart.
"And back with time to spare. Gods, I wished I'd had you all here sooner. I trust it wasn't too much trouble?"
Glyptemis The identified items have been added to your inventory. The cloak and dagger both require attunement. The puzzle box cannot be identified, because it is not the magical item - rather the thing inside is.
Leftenant rides through the gates with shoulders back. “Best to put on the air of success” he thinks to himself. Perhaps he is out front of the wagon, leading. He asks for a quick report from the guards as they pass through, and conveys confidence in their duties and positions. When commander/lord Davenforth asks if there was trouble, the veteran offers, ‘No troubles at all!’ (Deception 16).
He presents Davenforth with the healing potions and the scrolls he recovered from the apothecary. “These should help Vinande save a few lives tonight.” He humbly offers. “Though if you please, I’d prefer to hold onto the scrolls at least, perhaps?”
He finishes his time with Davenforth by proffering his report; indicating the group’s progress into the town and how the buildings were marked when cleared. Lastly he mentions exploring the Silvermane Manor, more as a passing comment hoping to forego any details. Excusing himself to quickly works with the others to off load the goods and direct where best to stash the materials retrieved.
Ilya snaps her mouth closed as the older soldier among them reports "no troubles" to Davenforth. Thought she doesn't understand the reason, she recognizes desire for omission. 'Perhaps it's just for the sake of the others out here in the open?' She thinks.
"We did want to talk to you about next steps, once all of this gets settled."She says to Davenforth, gesturing at the supply wagon.
Other than an ever so slightly raised eyebrow, Lyra maintains a poker face as Leftenant announces that there were no troubles and omits the journal, the horrors of the Silvermane manor, and the encounter with Maghda on the road from his report to Davenforth.
I just finished telling everyone we are in this together as a team. Best live up to it myself and not contradict a teammate. I wonder why Lefty chose that tack? Not wanting to sow confusion and panic, surely, but they will wonder where we are going when we head out after Seidrach Karvas.
(OOC: Flashing back to the narrative of Glyp in the cart w/ the items:)
Glyptemis spends some time with the items they retrieved, and the more he comes to understand them the less comfortable he becomes. This cloak and dagger are of a darker nature than he has seen before. A dagger that uses ones own blood to empower its strikes, and a cloak made of skin that can be used to alter one's own. They might be useful.. but Glyp really isn't sure if he can bear to become that familiar with them. He makes a note to show them to others when he gets a chance.
(OOC: Lmk if anyone is interested in either of the items! I can send more details as well.)
He takes out the puzzle box, coming to understand that it's not magical in and of itself. He turns it over and over, looking for any kind of clue about how to reveal its contents. He even tries casting Knock as part of his efforts. The aura of the magical item contained within is just too enticing to his wizard mind for him to let it go.
When shown the two magical items by Glyptemis, Kalamin only shakes his head. "No matter how powerful they may seem, I wouldn't trust such dark instruments. If anyone of you wish to use them, I would caution against the corruption they may bring." He does however, make sure an amulet is distributed to each of them. "These however may come in handy. We know of at least two parties interested in finding us, these will go a long way in preventing that."
The knight is likewise confused by LT's deception, but does not break rank with the old soldier.
Glytpemis A loud crack rings out as you cast your spell. You hear some internal mechanisms shift, and one side of the box begins to change. Pieces of bone move around, forming new patterns. You try to open it again...But it doesn't budge. There are still more layers to it than the first lock it would seem.
Davenforth shows no signs that he might have caught the ranger's lie. "Good, glad to hear it went well. I'm unfamiliar with this manor you speak of though...Something like that would have been one of the first places we checked." He seems confused, and he begins to massage his temple with two fingers as if in pain. The moment passes, and he waves his hand at the other citizens of Vinande. "They'll get the unloading handle. Come, let's hear all about your next steps."
You return to the inn converted storehouse where you stayed the night previously. The town's leader turns to you all as you gather inside the common area, still filled with crates, barrels, and weapons instead of tables and chairs. "So, have you decided on Neressa?" Or did some other inspiration strike you while out on your supply mission?"
Lyra steps forward to address Davenforth, ever so briefly eying Leftenant. She tries to be forthright without contradicting the soldier's report.
"We remain committed to seeking out answers in Neressa, sir. Yet as you have guessed, there is someplace else we must go first, and beg your pardon for the mystery. I think our initial destination, nearer than Neressa, may be best left unspoken. Strange magic has been loosed upon this land, related to the shadows that have come to haunt it, and not unrelated, perhaps, to the fact the you yourself found it difficult to think on the Silvermane manor just now without experiencing psychic pain and confusion. We have our suspicions and we intend to confirm or refute them as directly as possible."
She plays a somber chord on her dark harmonica that seems to add... or die trying.
Again, the village leader looks confused at the mention of Silvermane Manor. It passes, and he seems to ignore it, addressing the rest of your statements. "You have suspicions of something related to what's causing this...That could change everything. Are you saying you could free us from this damnable situation? What makes you say this?"
Leftenant enters the tavern turned headquarters with the others. He pick up the ever so slight wonderment of his companions at his initial report and patiently waits for any others to speak. He catches Lyra’s glance and non-verbally acknowledges that he is fine with her speaking on his behalf. He then continues to wait in the back should any others wish to add their opinions.
He then compliments the bard’s words by saying, “It is true sir, that while we encountered no threat on our supply run, we did discover more disturbances that captured our attention than I cared to relay in front of the hearty citizens of Vinande.”
In addressing Davenforth’s concerns directly, the Ranger adds, “One of the things we discovered was possible signs of a creature that might be linked to the nightly encroachments of these ‘shadow’ creatures. Signs that I might be able to track to the creature itself. It is this we hope to validate as my companion has spoken of.”
The soldier pauses, allowing anyone else the opportunity to contribute to the discussion.
"We met someone which claimed responsibility for this mess. A strange, pale woman. Maghda the Highblood is the only name we know her by. She also leads the group which kidnapped us. According to her, the state of the region was accidental. The result of interference in some ritual."Kalamin says, now comfortable to speak freely with Leftenant's given permission. "She also said that killing this creature would fix the problem."
"I'm typically not one to trust someone that has made themselves so familiar with such twisted and dark magic...But it's the only lead we have, and I don't see a downside to removing this monster from our world."
Davenforth makes a sound, something like a scoff. "You concern is appreciated Leftenant. But I assure you, especially after this horror show the people of Vinande are hardy enough to tackle any news. I am not the type of leader to leave them in dark about our situation."
His eyebrows go up as Kalamin elaborates further, and he grows quiet for a moment.
Finally he speaks, "What do you need from Vinande for this task?"
Lyra relaxes subtly, with the need for partial secrecy towards Davenforth apparently gone.
"This Maghda who Kalamin describes, not even a woman any more, truly. Grey inhuman skin, extra pair of eyes, necromancer, looks as if she's from another plane. Apparently she is one of four apostles for some powerful, yet banished elder god. The obvious concern is that she is using us, particularly since she has shown no compunction about holding us in thrall and using us as unwitting catalysts in the ritual that set this all off..."
She sighs, playing a determined chord on her dark harmonica.
"And yet, we find ourselves having little choice but to follow her lead. She appeared sincere that it was not her intention to loose these undead on the world. She mentioned that this summoned creature who holds the rift open which allows the shadows through - that it may be vulnerable to fire. So I have to ask, do you have gear or suggestions as to how we might, you know..." Lyra grins ruefully. "Blow the creature up?"
"You're right not to trust this Maghda...But if she offers you a gift freely." The man gives an almighty shrug, then crossing his arms over his chest as he begins to pace. "We've been saving as much oil as we could for a particularly bad night. But if you're sure this could end it all, I'll gladly give as much as you wish to have."
"Where exactly is this thing holed up? Is it alone?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
To post a comment, please login or register a new account.
"She seems nice." Lyra's drawl is deadpan despite the intensity in her eyes.
As the snowy maelstrom subsides and the Veiled Moon vanishes, she appears unruffled except a relaxation of her slightly clenched fist. Lyra's voice regains its sing-song quality as she turns to her companions. She plays a quick riff on her harmonica to break the tension.
"I mistrust this cult of an elder god. They are utterly convinced that the return of their deity to this world is the only way forward, so much so that they are willing to enslave us and commit atrocities to achieve that end. Yet, knowing but little of such things, I immediately see two problems."
"First, their very willingness to use such vile means to achieve their ends does not speak well to what would befall this world under the return of their god, even if such a return would shield us from some enormous cataclysm."
"And second, even if she believes what she says, cults are often wrong... perhaps there is another way." Lyra sighs.
"Nevertheless, after we return to Vinande, we must decide whether to do as she suggests. Seek out this Sedrach Karvas where she sent it and destroy them if we can, perhaps with the help of fire. It could be she is truthful and slaying them will close the rift through which the shadows are coming. Or she could be using us as a catspaw again to do her bidding, as in fact, she seems to have been doing all along for over a month."
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
"More polite than I had imagined at least," Ilya mentions, rubbing warmth back into her arms after the sudden snowstorm. There was little doubt in her mind that something divine had just occured, or perhaps not if this 'Maghda' was to be believed. It was hard to trust someone who had done such terrible things. And yet she found herself wondering about the things she had said of Imane's deities. Pretenders. Caretakers. It could be true.
"At the very least, she's revealed how important you all are to her. She was willing to give up someone she went through the trouble of tearing a hole through reality for. That could be leverage you use later."
"In any case...Regardless of whether or not killing Karvas will close the rift, he needs to be put down. That he's a monster who doesn't belong in this world is undeniable."
Kalamin shifts uncomfortably, disturbed by the pale woman's arguments, and the display of divine power to silence her. "Quickly then, back to Vinande to share what we've learned and drop off these supplies."
"Then...Sedrach Karvas."
Leftenant wraps the cloak back around him, trying to regain some warmth. He calms his horse from the un-natural weather pattern. He was bewildered by all the events, all the happenings. Where was the truth in all of it. What was to be believed. For himself, he would need more time to sift through it all. To sort it out and analyze it, but he didn’t have the current means for deeper research on these subjects.
He looked to the others, impressed with each one in their own right. While he doubted his own importance to the greater machinations of cults and gods, he ponders if Maghda’s belief of his role was enough to lend strength to his actions against it all…or for it even.
”I can’t say where we will end up…” he begins, “but I think our next stop is back to Vinande as a start.”
He remounts the horse, ready to face what comes next. His heart heavy with a longing for peace he fears he won’t find.
"This business about the creature's heart seems important too.. I'm not sure how much we should trust what she said at face value, but if she took the trouble mention the heart we should probably pay it some mind. Not that I'm all that excited about trying to remove this thing's heart..." he trails off and shudders a bit at the thought of it.
"Either way, lets head back to Vinande. While we go I'll take a closer look at these things and see what I can make of them"
(OOC: When we enter travel time Glyp would sit in the cart and cast Identify on each of the magical items we picked up)
Lyra sees doubt in her companions' expressions, mirroring her own feelings, though she hides it well, playing a lively folk tune on her harmonica.
"Do not despair, friends. It is natural to feel uncertain. Held in thrall and used by Maghda's cult on one hand, attacked by the paramilitary force opposing them on the other. Unwitting pawns in a power struggle among gods, old and new, as exemplified by the moon-touched blizzard we just witnessed."
"One thing we have learned for certain - the only ones we can count on are ourselves. Let us have faith in each other. If we have agreed to return to Vinande, then track this aberration Seidrach Karvas to close the rift, then let us do so without reservation, keeping our eyes and ears open."
She passes quietly from one party member to another, speaking to each quietly, touching their shoulder. Attempting to lift their spirits on the journey back to Vinande. Trying to instill the notion that we are all in this together and none of us is alone.
(Lyra's Persuasion: 23 for flavor).
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Perhaps shaken, but not deterred by what you have witnessed, your group continues on the road back to Vinande as the sun finally begins to sink in the sky...
Sunset is upon you by the time you arrive back at the walled village. A guard at the gate lets you, calling on a few others to help unload the supplies you've brought back. Davenforth approaches you as that's going on, "a good haul." He says, eyeing the supplies as they're offloaded from the cart.
"And back with time to spare. Gods, I wished I'd had you all here sooner. I trust it wasn't too much trouble?"
Glyptemis
The identified items have been added to your inventory. The cloak and dagger both require attunement. The puzzle box cannot be identified, because it is not the magical item - rather the thing inside is.
Leftenant rides through the gates with shoulders back. “Best to put on the air of success” he thinks to himself. Perhaps he is out front of the wagon, leading. He asks for a quick report from the guards as they pass through, and conveys confidence in their duties and positions.
When commander/lord Davenforth asks if there was trouble, the veteran offers, ‘No troubles at all!’ (Deception 16).
He presents Davenforth with the healing potions and the scrolls he recovered from the apothecary. “These should help Vinande save a few lives tonight.” He humbly offers. “Though if you please, I’d prefer to hold onto the scrolls at least, perhaps?”
He finishes his time with Davenforth by proffering his report; indicating the group’s progress into the town and how the buildings were marked when cleared. Lastly he mentions exploring the Silvermane Manor, more as a passing comment hoping to forego any details. Excusing himself to quickly works with the others to off load the goods and direct where best to stash the materials retrieved.
Ilya snaps her mouth closed as the older soldier among them reports "no troubles" to Davenforth. Thought she doesn't understand the reason, she recognizes desire for omission. 'Perhaps it's just for the sake of the others out here in the open?' She thinks.
"We did want to talk to you about next steps, once all of this gets settled." She says to Davenforth, gesturing at the supply wagon.
Other than an ever so slightly raised eyebrow, Lyra maintains a poker face as Leftenant announces that there were no troubles and omits the journal, the horrors of the Silvermane manor, and the encounter with Maghda on the road from his report to Davenforth.
I just finished telling everyone we are in this together as a team. Best live up to it myself and not contradict a teammate. I wonder why Lefty chose that tack? Not wanting to sow confusion and panic, surely, but they will wonder where we are going when we head out after Seidrach Karvas.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
(OOC: Flashing back to the narrative of Glyp in the cart w/ the items:)
Glyptemis spends some time with the items they retrieved, and the more he comes to understand them the less comfortable he becomes. This cloak and dagger are of a darker nature than he has seen before. A dagger that uses ones own blood to empower its strikes, and a cloak made of skin that can be used to alter one's own. They might be useful.. but Glyp really isn't sure if he can bear to become that familiar with them. He makes a note to show them to others when he gets a chance.
(OOC: Lmk if anyone is interested in either of the items! I can send more details as well.)
He takes out the puzzle box, coming to understand that it's not magical in and of itself. He turns it over and over, looking for any kind of clue about how to reveal its contents. He even tries casting Knock as part of his efforts. The aura of the magical item contained within is just too enticing to his wizard mind for him to let it go.
When shown the two magical items by Glyptemis, Kalamin only shakes his head. "No matter how powerful they may seem, I wouldn't trust such dark instruments. If anyone of you wish to use them, I would caution against the corruption they may bring." He does however, make sure an amulet is distributed to each of them. "These however may come in handy. We know of at least two parties interested in finding us, these will go a long way in preventing that."
The knight is likewise confused by LT's deception, but does not break rank with the old soldier.
Glytpemis
A loud crack rings out as you cast your spell. You hear some internal mechanisms shift, and one side of the box begins to change. Pieces of bone move around, forming new patterns. You try to open it again...But it doesn't budge. There are still more layers to it than the first lock it would seem.
Davenforth shows no signs that he might have caught the ranger's lie. "Good, glad to hear it went well. I'm unfamiliar with this manor you speak of though...Something like that would have been one of the first places we checked." He seems confused, and he begins to massage his temple with two fingers as if in pain. The moment passes, and he waves his hand at the other citizens of Vinande. "They'll get the unloading handle. Come, let's hear all about your next steps."
You return to the inn converted storehouse where you stayed the night previously. The town's leader turns to you all as you gather inside the common area, still filled with crates, barrels, and weapons instead of tables and chairs. "So, have you decided on Neressa?" Or did some other inspiration strike you while out on your supply mission?"
Lyra steps forward to address Davenforth, ever so briefly eying Leftenant. She tries to be forthright without contradicting the soldier's report.
"We remain committed to seeking out answers in Neressa, sir. Yet as you have guessed, there is someplace else we must go first, and beg your pardon for the mystery. I think our initial destination, nearer than Neressa, may be best left unspoken. Strange magic has been loosed upon this land, related to the shadows that have come to haunt it, and not unrelated, perhaps, to the fact the you yourself found it difficult to think on the Silvermane manor just now without experiencing psychic pain and confusion. We have our suspicions and we intend to confirm or refute them as directly as possible."
She plays a somber chord on her dark harmonica that seems to add... or die trying.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Again, the village leader looks confused at the mention of Silvermane Manor. It passes, and he seems to ignore it, addressing the rest of your statements. "You have suspicions of something related to what's causing this...That could change everything. Are you saying you could free us from this damnable situation? What makes you say this?"
Leftenant enters the tavern turned headquarters with the others. He pick up the ever so slight wonderment of his companions at his initial report and patiently waits for any others to speak. He catches Lyra’s glance and non-verbally acknowledges that he is fine with her speaking on his behalf. He then continues to wait in the back should any others wish to add their opinions.
He then compliments the bard’s words by saying, “It is true sir, that while we encountered no threat on our supply run, we did discover more disturbances that captured our attention than I cared to relay in front of the hearty citizens of Vinande.”
In addressing Davenforth’s concerns directly, the Ranger adds, “One of the things we discovered was possible signs of a creature that might be linked to the nightly encroachments of these ‘shadow’ creatures. Signs that I might be able to track to the creature itself. It is this we hope to validate as my companion has spoken of.”
The soldier pauses, allowing anyone else the opportunity to contribute to the discussion.
"We met someone which claimed responsibility for this mess. A strange, pale woman. Maghda the Highblood is the only name we know her by. She also leads the group which kidnapped us. According to her, the state of the region was accidental. The result of interference in some ritual." Kalamin says, now comfortable to speak freely with Leftenant's given permission. "She also said that killing this creature would fix the problem."
"I'm typically not one to trust someone that has made themselves so familiar with such twisted and dark magic...But it's the only lead we have, and I don't see a downside to removing this monster from our world."
Davenforth makes a sound, something like a scoff. "You concern is appreciated Leftenant. But I assure you, especially after this horror show the people of Vinande are hardy enough to tackle any news. I am not the type of leader to leave them in dark about our situation."
His eyebrows go up as Kalamin elaborates further, and he grows quiet for a moment.
Finally he speaks, "What do you need from Vinande for this task?"
Lyra relaxes subtly, with the need for partial secrecy towards Davenforth apparently gone.
"This Maghda who Kalamin describes, not even a woman any more, truly. Grey inhuman skin, extra pair of eyes, necromancer, looks as if she's from another plane. Apparently she is one of four apostles for some powerful, yet banished elder god. The obvious concern is that she is using us, particularly since she has shown no compunction about holding us in thrall and using us as unwitting catalysts in the ritual that set this all off..."
She sighs, playing a determined chord on her dark harmonica.
"And yet, we find ourselves having little choice but to follow her lead. She appeared sincere that it was not her intention to loose these undead on the world. She mentioned that this summoned creature who holds the rift open which allows the shadows through - that it may be vulnerable to fire. So I have to ask, do you have gear or suggestions as to how we might, you know..." Lyra grins ruefully. "Blow the creature up?"
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
"You're right not to trust this Maghda...But if she offers you a gift freely." The man gives an almighty shrug, then crossing his arms over his chest as he begins to pace. "We've been saving as much oil as we could for a particularly bad night. But if you're sure this could end it all, I'll gladly give as much as you wish to have."
"Where exactly is this thing holed up? Is it alone?"