Joy attempts to keep an eye on the surroundings as Geren examines the corpses and area around them. She doesn't feel comfortable getting too close to the dead fey, or especially the weapon that nearly took her life. Unfortunately, her confidence is a bit shot after that battle and though she can see a bit better in the dark now, the dread of the Ravenswood is too overwhelming for her to concentrate.

"Y-yes, that makes sense. Very fair." She agrees, glad Geren seems unfazed and happy even.

Perception and Survival attempt: Both 5...

Shae nods at Geren and Joy, her expression calm. "The spell will last for 24 hours. If we need it again, I can recast it, but it should hold until we rest—and then some." She moves to the desiccated corpse of the fey, handling it with practiced care. "Let's get this ready for transport. The sooner we're out of here, the better." She helps wrap the body, her gaze occasionally flicking to the shadows, clearly eager to leave the eerie woods behind.

Kesh sourly sweeps the forest floor for his bolts, though it's more to curse in the same halting, guttural language that he's used previously. He affords a simple passing sweep to the rest, taking a moment to sip the odorous liquid and grumble a passing "mrm, thanks..." before continuing. Hopefully, none of the others understand ogre.

Geren quickly surmises a few details about what remains of the flies, perhaps something he'd seen in his travels or read about in some lost lore. Faeflies are creatures akin to another species similar know as Sutureflies. These are apparently a Fey version of the same and the creatures have been known to be utilized during trials to encourage truth-telling. The Suturefly was rumored to be able to sniff out lies and curses and even be drawn to them, hence its ability to sew up orifices tightly. The rogue can't be sure, but these Fey varieties do seem to have operated differently, or so he thinks. Whatever these insects had been tasked with, the varieties are always used and bred for a purpose, that much is sure. Most are small such as these here but there are some tales of their wings being found in forests spanning the height of a full grown man.

The stalking creature remains and enigma to Geren, it's odd blend of insect and whatever else the thing was hidden.  The most he would know is that it appeared to refer to its kind as 'Selang', and that it resembles a Satyr that is part insect instead of beast.

The small polished crystal sphere is near to perfectly smooth and when Geren clutches it in his hand to investigate, a telepathic voice resounds in his mind much like his own, "All that shines and glitters ain't gold. The surface is what gets tarnished." The crystal seems to simply repeat that one phrase in his mind any time his clutches it tightly in his hand. Perhaps it is merely a fey trinket, or perhaps it is a message intended for someone.

Thus far, the woods remain quiet.

Geren finishes his examination of the fey corpses, cheerfully whistling the tune to a particularly catchy cult chant as he wipes the blood off his gloves.

"Well. Fey aren't my specialty but it seems like the ones around here are bug-types. Seems appropriate given the forest area, but still. Ah, but those flies do get a lot bigger so be on the lookout. And for other fey too of course. Honestly that whole fight was completely avoidable but that thing insisted and it's just such a waste."

He seems to just now notice his wounds. He examines them and determines that they're not that deep, but better to heal them sooner rather than later once they're safe.

"Hmm. Well I don't think those flies were venomous and I don't feel cursed. If any of you have healing spells or know any medical arts I'd appreciate some help before we rest tonight."

Geren doesn't seem very affected by the fact they just had to fight for their lives.

He holds up the crystal.

"'All that shines and glitters ain't gold. The surface is what gets tarnished.' mean anything to any of you? Fey love riddles, but I personally prefer straight questions and answers."

A grin splits his face.

"Still, that just makes finding the answer all the sweeter. Speaking of, do any of you have any alcohol? I could really go for a celebratory drink right now but it's fine if you don't."

Joy shivers at the mention of bugs, grimacing as she tries to picture even bigger ones.

"Ah, perhaps Sir Kesh can yell at you! He woke me right up." She smiles, approaching to look at the crystal more closely as she ponders the strange riddle. "Hm...So, 'the surface changes, but it's what's inside that matters'?" Thinking back over her religious upbringing, she tries to recall anything similar she might have heard.

Religion: 3

Shae glances at the crystal in Geren's hand, her brow furrowed slightly. "I've no idea what it means. Could be a hint that the creature wasn’t what it seemed, or maybe something else entirely. Fey do love their games." She shrugs, clearly uninterested in riddles at the moment.

As for the request for alcohol, Shae's lips press into a thin line. "No booze on me, and this is hardly the place for a celebration." Her tone is pointed, her gaze shifting to the dark, silent forest around them. "We should stay sharp. This place is far from safe. We should get going, either return or press on, but not remain here longer than necessary."

 Geren makes a dismissive gesture.

"We can drink later then. Personally I think we should keep going. We've got the spell to keep ours eyes sharp and we can rest at the lumber yard."

He slips the crystal into his pocket, there's at least one secret there and he wants to know what it is.

While the group discusses it he tries to think if he knows anything that could help them solve the riddle. Maybe another source of knowledge?

OOC: Religion check for the crystal (rolled in Discord): 14

Joy's smile falters a bit at the suggestion to keep going.

"I...I think it would be safer to turn back now and return during the day. Yes, it must be safer then, if workers from the town come through here...And besides, that thing seems much more fragile than when it was alive." She points towards the wrapped corpse reluctantly. "It could turn to dust after an hour for all we know. We should make sure the mayor and constable can have a look at it, right?"

Persuasion: 25

"Hmmm..." The Alchemist eyes the darkening path wearily. His scaly lips twitch in frustration, though his features have largely relaxed. He weighs the options, though he ultimately shakes his head. 

"...Kesh elects a return to the village. There is the examination of this creature, as well as the previous warning that was ignored. Strange things stir in the night. They are fools if they ignore a sign that the unknown need not be trifled with on this night." 

Shae nods in agreement with both Joy and Kesh, her gaze sweeping the darkened path ahead. "They're right, Geren. We were warned, and whatever else lurks here might be more dangerous than that thing we just faced." She gestures towards the corpse. "Best we bring it back while it's still intact. Let the mayor see it firsthand before it crumbles."

She glances toward the forest's ominous shadows, tension still humming beneath her calm exterior. "We can return with more information, maybe even daylight. No need to tempt fate any further tonight. The Murder Court has been here for many years, one day more won't make a difference."

Seeing that he's outvoted Geren shrugs.

"Alright, we can head back. I'd love to get the chance to examine these things with the proper tools."

He looks at the fey corpses like they're presents he can't wait to open.

Geren doesn't glean any further information from his recollections concerning the crystal, and the party makes their way back towards the village. Perhaps the warnings were well-founded after all...

They make it back to Jaekin shortly and without further incident. Where would you like to head to next?

Geren indicates the tavern.

"Well, I think we've more than earned a drink or two or three. Nothing like a fight to the death to get you in the mood for a celebration. Not to say there aren't events that make you more in the mood, but going from being on the edge of dying to knowing you're going to live is a unique sort of rush."

He indicates the fey corpses.

"We just need to figure out a safe place to leave these. I don't think the barkeep would appreciate us bringing them in with us."

Joy relaxes somewhat as they enter the town, allowing her shoulders to slump tiredly.

"I think...I agree." She sounds a little surprised, sighing. Perhaps a few drinks will help her get over the lingering tension from the battle, along with the sense that the Ravenswood is watching her still. "We could drop it off at the town hall maybe. I doubt anyone will allow it in or near their home, and we don't want any of the townspeople to stumble upon it."

The Dragonborn grumbles. "Kesh has work to get to. Drink if you must, but he needs to begin soon."

So much to do and prepare for. The idea of drinking does nothing to satisfy the Alchemist's racing mind. He has a subject to study, gold to count, an elixir to mix, meals to prepare -- the list keeps growing. There is much to do before their expedition begins tomorrow.

"If this... thing is to be delivered, then one thinks it should be delivered, forthwith."

Shae mutters under her breath, clearly unimpressed with the idea of hauling the corpse around. "I would've left that thing rotting in the woods... It's not like it's the first monster crawling around here. They probably already know, and if they don’t, there are likely plenty more where it came from."

She sighs, half to herself, rubbing her forehead as the weariness of the long day settles in. "Fine, let's just drop it off somewhere and get this over with. I’m looking forward to a proper rest." Her tone is clipped, but she’s still willing to help—just eager to be done with the task.

The party makes their return down the now muddied streets of Jaekin. The way is dark as the storm clouds have rolled in fully, and only a sliver of moonlight peeks through as you make your way back to the townhall. The fire and candle light still emanates from within the building and the lackadaisical guards still meander about. Three guards stand outside the entrance and stop you.

"Yer business ain't done here? Mayor's got yer replacements all lined up inside already."

The pair of other guardsmen snicker at the man's comment, but have hands on hilts to fulfil their duties if necessary. However, by the air of them and what you'd gleaned before, none would be fond of an actual conflict with your group.

 Geren makes polite gestures.

"Ah, that's too bad. Because we've not only survived, we've had some success in dealing with the problem already. If you'll just look here."

He points out the fey corpses.

"Nasty looking things, aren't they? Now would you please let us through? I think the Mayor will want to hear of our victory. And if more fey attack I think you'll want us on your side, correct? Because-"

Geren indicates the fey flies.

"-these are the small ones. They get much bigger. Maybe even human-sized. But if you'd prefer we leave you to deal with them we'll be on our way."

OOC: Persuasion check. If with advantage because of the circumstances use whichever of these is higher. If not use the first one:

26

23

The guards' eyes go wide at Geren's words and they take a step back as they look at the corpses. The one who'd spoken wipes a grimy hand across his mouth, "Aye, looks like ya got sumthin' there indeed." He cuts his eyes toward his companions and they shrug.

"Well, go on ahead then. I'm sure the Mayor will want to see this quick work. Mind yer manners though, they've got some other guests in."

The guards step aside to allow your party admittance once again..