In spite of his deep tan, you can see that Zahir is visibly blushing. While Zahir's crush on Ororana is well-known, few in Santekh would say no to an advance from Sera of Dawnbound. And the flattering way that her new armor clings to her body leaves little to the imagination. It takes a long moment of being flustered (and a quick adjustment of his pants) to build up the courage to flirt back, before he sees Sera's embarrassment and discomfort. Respectfully, he clears his throat and re-focuses on the task at hand, assuming the moment has passed.
"Ahem... of course, Mistress Sera. In this isolated region, everyone gets a bit lonely. As for rebuilding the temple, that's quite an undertaking. It's why we left it alone for so long. Before you, a druid of a former guild attempted the same task, but was frustrated by vandals, and eventually left. I assume those vandals were from the Cult of Sargonnas. So now that is no longer an issue. What is an issue, is cost and time. Please, come to my office."
He gestures towards a much smaller building. Small, but cozy, and guides you through the residential district towards it. Outside, it's a fairly standard, drab structure made of clay and stone. But inside, you discover bright colors, soft pillows, and scented candles that adorn the surprisingly cool room. You discover that little figurines, enchanted with cold magic, are tastefully placed throughout the home, emanating a soft, cool radiance. He seems to have a taste for softer things: silks, cottons, and gauzian (brightly colored) drapes. If you didn't know any better, you'd think it was the home of a courtesan. Now that water is available in town, he washes his hands and face, them dries himself with a thick, cotton towel. Then offers a fresh one for you while he brews some coffee. As the coffee percolates, he smiles and puts on a robe before sitting at his desk.
"Plans were drawn up about a month ago for the restoration of the cemetary and holy grounds. But the cost was thought to be too steep, as was the labor demand. The council prioritized housing and a medical station above it... to which I don't disagree. But now, we have housing and a medical building. The walls are sturdy, and our defenses are strong. Everything we need to survive is in place. But I think it's just as important to have what we need to honor the dead and worship... so that we remember why we continue to resist."
He finds the plans he was looking for and places them on his desk. Then gets up to pour you and himself some coffee. As he does, he continues talking.
"Sera, I admire you deeply. What Dawnbound has done for Santekh... I think we would not have survived without your efforts." The coffee smells amazing... with a nutty hint to it, and he offers you a cup. "I would love to rebuild and sanctify the holy grounds with you." He blushes again and shuffles his feet. "For Santekh, of course." He clinks his cup to yours and takes a sip.
The plans detail a variety of build ideas and costs. "To tear down the whole site, consecrate the grounds, and rebuild would cost 50,000 Steel and take over a year to build. But I believe that we can restore the structure for half the cost, and with my workers, it could be done in two months. But there are three setbacks."
He holds up a finger, indicating one. "The ground still needs to be consecrated. That can only be done by Priests, Clerics, or a very powerful Paladin. They would have to work round the clock in shifts, warding or fighting off evil spirits at all major points of the grounds. The task will take an unknowable amount of time. It depends on how... haunted? the grounds are. And the most powerful holy servants in Santekh besides yourself are merely Acolytes. Those with the blessings of a Priest are currently under arrest, because their god of choice was Sargonnas. Of course, Priests can be summoned from Ak-Tubal, but rumor has it, they're under seige. It's unlikely they'll spare their healers in such dire times to help a small outpost restore holy grounds. Another option would be to recover holy artifacts from other desolated sanctoms scattered throughout the desert and Khalkist Mountains. It's possible Piruz or Buckeran would know where to find them. But it's no guarantee that you'll find one that isn't desecrated. Buckeran insists that this land is cursed with magic poisoning. If that's the case, a cursed artifact could do more harm than good."
He holds up a second finger, indicating two. "Many of my workers were Hachakee, or honorary Hachakee, adopted by the tribe. Due to recent events, they have left Santekh, which has greatly reduced my workforce. News of your exploits are starting to spread, and that's raised awareness of our 'trading port' so to speak. It's possible new workers will arrive to aid our cause, but they'd have to cross a treacherous path through the desert that is crawling with monsters and dragon army soldiers to get here. At best, it will take some time. At worst, they will perish on the trail. Hachakee used to escort refugees to safety here in Santekh, but I don't know if they'll do that anymore. Their will has always been their own. But with tensions high, they may seek different allies. The council needs to make peace with the Hachakee. Find a solution that will bring them back to our aid. Previously, that role fell to Rhyanna. Piruz is no negotiator. Amelista might be able to do it, but the Hachakee remember her as a mad doomsday prophet. Her credibility outside of Santekh is questionable at this point. Buckeran is a likeable fellow. If you could get him to arrange a peace summit with the Hachakee, we could get our workers back."
He holds up a third finger. "And third, we've received news that there may be a terrible monster lurking in the cemetary. Amelista has a bounty available for its capture or destruction. Even if we had Priests to ward off evil spirits, they're no real match for enemies of flesh and blood. And my workers would be terrified to build there. Before it can be sanctified, it needs to be cleared of all physical dangers."
He takes another sip of his coffee and sits back, studying your reaction to this information. "As for getting the plans approved... leave that to me. I believe I can sway Amelista and Buckeran. With three on the council, two votes is all I need to make it happen."
Buckeran listens to Merkas's concerns while tapping a finely manicured nail to his teeth. "My boy, I think we need to add stables to the guild hall. That will cost an extra 1,000 Stl to build one with Barkly's specific needs in mind, and you'll need to hire someone to maintain it. But at 2 Stl per week, I could hire the best! And if the other members wish to purchase mounts, they can remain in the stables as well. What do you think about that, my lad?"
Merkas pulls up his new bag and starts pulling things from it, starting with the gems he collected during the Letni Inhelk trip and other things he had collected: Black Saphire, Blue Saphire, Yellow Saphire, Star Saphire, Jacinth, Garnet, Lapis Lazuli, 7 - 5lb bags of coins, 5 - 1lb gem pouches, The Book of Demonology, 100lb of Misc. Foodstuff, 50lb of Medical Supplies, String necklace of small pink pearls, a jeweled anklet. As the pile grows the kender, almost up to his waste inside the bag of holding, says, “Ah, here they are!” Pulling himself out he holds out two yellow chocolate eggs, one solid chocolate the other filled with caramel. “Which one you want, I like both just as much”
After Buckeran selects one Merkas sits back on one of the crates he just offloaded, unwrapping the egg and taking a bite, before speaking again. “Got most of this stuff from the cult underground, some from the trip to the Letni Inhelk, and the necklace, anklet, and these chocolates from a strange rabbit that showed up in the graveyard that night….a different strange rabbit from Mr. Nare.”Patting the crate he’s sitting on and gesturing to the rest of the food and medical supplies. “I want this all to go to the town, free of charge, as for the gems, coin bags, jewelry and stuff, sell it all and use what you need for the guild hall and stables, the rest can help recover your costs and to help the town. Dawnbound has some other things they want to do so maybe clear with them on what they want to use the funds for, pretty sure Sera was looking at helping with the Temple and stuff, Hastos I think might be involved with the garrison or something, he’s been pretty quiet though, oh and setting some aside for training new members would be nice.” Finishing his egg he thinks for a bit, talking through a mouthful of chocolate, nearly spitting the candy out in his excitement. “Hey! You think that we could get a magic map table that pinpoints all the message board quests on it, that way people could pick a couple that are in the same direction, or plan a route to catch more than one at a time. Or we could send recruits through a series of small quests in a sorta training tour based on whats available at the time?!”
Buckeran chuckles merrily as he watches loot pile up around you! A kender after his own heart!
"I'll make certain the food and medical supplies are taken to the hospital. As for the gems, coin bags, and jewelry, I know a gem cutter in town. Well... I knew one. Amber, Tekel's sister, runs Amber's Gallery. She's been adopted by the Hachakee Tribe, and followed them into the desert. But the shop is still open and run by her employees." He waves a three-fingered hand, "No offense intended towards humans, but without a kender running that shop, they're helpless at haggling compared to us. I can't think of a better time to sell those treasures."
He licks his lips and perks up after finishing the chocolate. Merkas feels more perked as well, like the chocolate candy has restored their hope.
Merkas has Heroic Inspiration from eating the chocolate. Buckeran collects:
1 Black Sapphire (5,000 Stl)
1 Blue Sapphire (1,000 Stl)
1 Yellow Sapphire (1,000 Stl)
1 Star Sapphire (1,000 Stl)
1 Jacinth (5,000 Stl)
1 Garnet (500 Stl)
1 Lapis Lazuli (10 Stl)
7 (5lbs) Bag of Coins: 175 Coins, averaged as Silver coins (175 SP)
5 (1lbs) Bag of Gems: 200 Gems, averaged value 50 Stl per gem (10,000 Stl)
Demonomicon (Legendary Artifact): 500,000 Stl
Total Value: 23,522.75 Stl (Santekh cannot afford to purchase the Demonomicon.)
Buckeran puts on a jewlers loop and carefully assesses the value of everything he looks through, and quotes you prices for each item. The process takes several hours. But when he gets to the Demonomican, he lets out a low whistle. "Do you know what you have found? How? Wha- Piruz would..." He removes his jewler's loop and puts on his magic monacle. But staring at it more than a few moments makes him clutch his head in pain, and he removes the monacle. His eyes are buldging out of his skull with surprise, and he wipes his sweat-beaded brow with a soft cloth. "It's real... it's... it's authentic! Oh, my head!" He rubs his temples, then carefuly places the book in an anti-magic chest. "Merkas! Where did you find Demonomicon of Iggwilv?!"
For the first time, he seems truly shaken. Not even Ibahalii Vriwhulth had him rattled. But this book truly frightens him.
Hastos spent his downtime reading and stretching. He finds a book on archery and consumes it, followed by a small book on meditative arts that improves one ability to reduce certain types of physical injuries. The scar left from the wizards blade softened with time, but there was always a lingering pain that reminded him of the encounter in the sewers.
He worried about Sera and Nare, but his worry for Sera was different, deeper. After they were able to see the two of them again, Hastos’ mood lightened, but he held a real concern for the chitinous armor that had bonded with her. This combined with his own thoughts on feeling so exposed left him introspective in the evening hours. But his new learning of archery pushed him out in search of a bow. He stops at one of the vendors to see where he might find a Boyer he thanks the young man for the information and turns to see Sera walking away. Had she noticed him? The young man grabs his attention and asks if him to meet his family. Hastos hurriedly shakes their hands, and rubs the child on the top of the head before trying to catch up with her. Following her last path, Hastos hurriedly tried to gain ground. He turns a corner to see Sera talking to the young artificer. As he approaches, Sera and the young man head toward the other building, clearly having business.
Hastos suddenly feels awkward about interrupting their conversation and decides not to intrude. Instead he decides to continue his search for a bow.
“Oh, i found it down where that undead guy was who didn’t like things leaving the room, that reminds me” He goes back to digging through the bag of holding as his muffled voice comes out the top “There’s a bunch of other stuff too! Didn’t have time to figure out what they all were, just knew they felt magical and stuff” He starts pulling out the magical items that they had recovered, apart from the ones his friends claimed, 5 sets of armour, an Arrow catching shield and four other shields, a Ring of the Ram, a Ring of Resistance (type unknown), Ring of Jumping, Ring of Warmth, another garnet (“Hey how’d I miss you before!?”), the failed experiment wand and two others, Starshot crossbow, Berserker Great Axe, and 4 other magical weapons.
Finally having cleared all the extras from his bag he stops and stares at Bucky again. “Wait? Is that book really that bad?!” He moves over beside the older treasure hunter. “What do you think we should do with it? Like is it going to make things harder for the town, or can we stash it in one of your special cases to keep it from waking up and attacking people? Or maybe the bag I found is definitely magical you think that would help contain it’s evilness? Is it’s evil like that crazy deathcursed golden scythe Tekel has?” (Insight=9 on how to store the book, History=4 and Religion=12 on who/what Iggwilv is) “Don’t know that I ever heard of ‘Iguana Love’. Weird name for a Demonomomicon, y’know”
She is so hurt....a part of her want to embrace the welcoming darkness. But she cannot ..not yet. So she swims or paddle like a frenetic dog against the current that treatens to wash her away. She still got the increased strenght and just by dumb luck she get a grip.....and hold on "Nare...NARE!...swim ..swim like it is a wonderful gigantic carrot at the end"..she got no clue what Nare really liked. Food, girls, treasure? She tried food first.
((THIS IS THE FUNNIEST THING TO ME))
The mouse on his shoulders felt the tremors first before he could even grasp what was happening. Sure, he heard it. Then the tremors. But it wasn't until the eidolon's soft 'no' that confirmed it. Was he loosing touch with his hare instincts? He didn't know. Didn't have time to think when all of sudden him and everything else was washed away.
The water floods the tunnel before he even has a chance to close his gaping wide mouth. Footsteps. Sera was already running. 'Where-'
His head smashes against a wall. Yanked in every direction. Air escapes his throat only to be filled with water instead. Couldn't even focus. Aborted attempts at growing gills.
Scrambling paws reach out. Clawing. Droplets blast his eyes, filling the room with off and on darkness. He hadn't even had the chance to look. Too busy in his own head. Too focused on the eidolon. Now it was all over.
A split second decision, he changes course. The warmth of the mouse under his helmet. It reminds him. What to fight for, once again. 'How did you even get up there?' No, no time to lose. Not just yet. He grips onto something. Slippery. Wet. Stable.
"Nare...NARE!.."
His name. He hears it over the water in the tunnels. "Ser- SERA?!"he shouts, his head fighting against the current. Pushing off against the wall, Ne'haredowell doggy-paddles (or would it be rabbit-paddles) over, muscles tiring.
"swim... gigantic carrot..." Straining over the sound of the waves, Nare couldn't even do a double take with blink. "What-?!"he attempts to yell at both what was the rest of what she meant to say and also the meaning of it. Is that what she thought of him? Not that it was wrong! He could go for a really big carrot at the moment. The thought of it, the fact that she thought it is what his motivations were, was really funny.
The harengon would've laughed at it: the absurdity of it all, being in a waterslide of a sewer and imagining a giant carrot at the end of it all. 'What a ride,'he thinks fondly, snorting, water going up his nose.
Before he could react, the paralyzed body of the eidolon smacks right into him. The shattering of his leg feels like million tiny icicles run throughout his body. His body thunks against the cold tile of the tomb. Not even time for a gasp.The last of his thoughts fizzles out as it fades to black before he could even see the surface.
His heart was racing for what felt like forever. He could feel it though he wasn't really there. Everything was black and gray. Like when you close your eyes and stare at the static between your eyelids. Which was what he was basically was doing. He didn't realize it was already over a week when it all happened.
His eyes opened to what appeared to be a medical tent. "huh?"he barely even mouths a whisper, his face all stiff from unuse. "Tsh ah," he groans at the sudden pain in his leg. He only just shifted it.
The cot next to him is already empty. 'Sera?'It slightly smells of her. Faint. Long gone. After tugging at a bandage on his head, he tries to shift his weight upwards toward the top of the pillow. It hurts, so he quits at attempting it.
'Where is everyone?'he thinks, not even trying to voice it. He groans slightly, trying to figure out where and how long he has been out.
((I really like the idea that Nare has a bad leg! i actually have one as well. bruh only 23 and my knee (left one) hurts for no reason all time since forever smh. love this idea yesss))
Hastos spent his downtime reading and stretching. He finds a book on archery and consumes it, followed by a small book on meditative arts that improves one ability to reduce certain types of physical injuries. The scar left from the wizards blade softened with time, but there was always a lingering pain that reminded him of the encounter in the sewers.
He worried about Sera and Nare, but his worry for Sera was different, deeper. After they were able to see the two of them again, Hastos’ mood lightened, but he held a real concern for the chitinous armor that had bonded with her. This combined with his own thoughts on feeling so exposed left him introspective in the evening hours. But his new learning of archery pushed him out in search of a bow. He stops at one of the vendors to see where he might find a Boyer he thanks the young man for the information and turns to see Sera walking away. Had she noticed him? The young man grabs his attention and asks if him to meet his family. Hastos hurriedly shakes their hands, and rubs the child on the top of the head before trying to catch up with her. Following her last path, Hastos hurriedly tried to gain ground. He turns a corner to see Sera talking to the young artificer. As he approaches, Sera and the young man head toward the other building, clearly having business.
Hastos suddenly feels awkward about interrupting their conversation and decides not to intrude. Instead he decides to continue his search for a bow.
Hastos has no trouble finding what he needs. Handar is still holding onto:
2 Maces
2 Crossbows
2 Bolt Quivers
But HQ collected hordes of bows and arrows that washed up when the sewers overflowed. They're cleaned and distributed to the guards, but the backstock is being sold off at standard rates to fund the cause.
Repeater Crossbow, Heavy 1000 Stl (Guild Discount: 800)
Twinshot Hand Crossbow 85 Stl (Guild Discount: 68)
Since you're part of Santekh's Official Guild, you get 20% off, so flash your guild insignia, and take the Guild Discount. If you use a guild artisan in your guild hall, you get 50% off.
Kasi also has +1 and +2 ranged weapons and ammo for you to peruse in the Guild Forge. She's moved all her merchandise into the guild, and can sell bows and quivers at half price to guild members. If you wish to acquire something with a specific ability, she'll need to craft it for you.
*** Placeholder for more content, I gotta go pick up my roommate from surgery. He's recovering nicely and they're letting him out today. ***
“Oh, i found it down where that undead guy was who didn’t like things leaving the room, that reminds me” He goes back to digging through the bag of holding as his muffled voice comes out the top “There’s a bunch of other stuff too! Didn’t have time to figure out what they all were, just knew they felt magical and stuff” He starts pulling out the magical items that they had recovered, apart from the ones his friends claimed, 5 sets of armour, an Arrow catching shield and four other shields, a Ring of the Ram, a Ring of Resistance (type unknown), Ring of Jumping, Ring of Warmth, another garnet (“Hey how’d I miss you before!?”), the failed experiment wand and two others, Starshot crossbow, Berserker Great Axe, and 4 other magical weapons.
Finally having cleared all the extras from his bag he stops and stares at Bucky again. “Wait? Is that book really that bad?!” He moves over beside the older treasure hunter. “What do you think we should do with it? Like is it going to make things harder for the town, or can we stash it in one of your special cases to keep it from waking up and attacking people? Or maybe the bag I found is definitely magical you think that would help contain it’s evilness? Is it’s evil like that crazy deathcursed golden scythe Tekel has?” (Insight=9 on how to store the book, History=4 and Religion=12 on who/what Iggwilv is) “Don’t know that I ever heard of ‘Iguana Love’. Weird name for a Demonomomicon, y’know”
“Oh, i found it down where that undead guy was who didn’t like things leaving the room, that reminds me” He goes back to digging through the bag of holding as his muffled voice comes out the top “There’s a bunch of other stuff too! Didn’t have time to figure out what they all were, just knew they felt magical and stuff” He starts pulling out the magical items that they had recovered, apart from the ones his friends claimed, 5 sets of armour, an Arrow catching shield and four other shields, a Ring of the Ram, a Ring of Resistance (type unknown), Ring of Jumping, Ring of Warmth, another garnet (“Hey how’d I miss you before!?”), the failed experiment wand and two others, Starshot crossbow, Berserker Great Axe, and 4 other magical weapons.
Finally having cleared all the extras from his bag he stops and stares at Bucky again. “Wait? Is that book really that bad?!” He moves over beside the older treasure hunter. “What do you think we should do with it? Like is it going to make things harder for the town, or can we stash it in one of your special cases to keep it from waking up and attacking people? Or maybe the bag I found is definitely magical you think that would help contain it’s evilness? Is it’s evil like that crazy deathcursed golden scythe Tekel has?” (Insight=9 on how to store the book, History=4 and Religion=12 on who/what Iggwilv is) “Don’t know that I ever heard of ‘Iguana Love’. Weird name for a Demonomomicon, y’know”
"Iggwilv," Buckeran corrects slowly, not daring to allow the name to be disrespected. "And yes. An expansive treatise documenting the Abyss's infinite layers and inhabitants, the Demonomicon of lggwilv is the most thorough and blasphemous tome of demonology in the multiverse. The tome recounts both the oldest and most current profanities of the Abyss and demons. Demons have attempted to censor the text, and while sections have been ripped from the book's spine, the general chapters remain, ever revealing demonic secrets. And the book holds more than blasphemies. Caged behind lines of script roils a secret piece of the Abyss itself, which keeps the book up-to-date, no matter how many pages are removed, and it longs to be more than mere reference material," Buckeran recites as if he had drilled the speech into his mind.
"By attuning to it, its bearer can cast powerful spells up to eight times per day." He wobbles his hand as if to say, ehhhh, "Theeere are benefits to using it, but also risks. It's different from bearer to bearer. Some notice that animals are hostile to them. Others may experience an insatiable hunger and thirst. Or those near them have unrestful sleep. But in trade, you may gain the ability to become immune to many conditions, like disease, and can no longer be charmed or frightened. Some even gain the ability to cast an all new cantrip or higher level spell. But even without those benefits, many still would consider it to be a highly valuable asset. Why... just Planar Ally, or Tasha's Hideous Laughter alone would be worth the risk."
He doesn't even seem to be noticing the other books and treasures at the moment. His expression is unusually serious. "That sack you're carrying is called a Bag of Holding. It's essentially a portable dimension, similar to this mansion I reside in. It's possible that, by keeping the book in that bag, you've kept its location a mystery. Whatever undead thing was guarding it must've been quite powerful. Otherwise the sewers would've been crawling with foul Abyssal abominations depending on how long it was stored there."
He frowns. "My boy, as a procurer of such items, this would be the crown jewel of my collection. But for the safety of Santekh, and myself, I don't think I can store it for you. If demons should find my mansion and come for it, I'd be inadequate to fend it off. I don't believe an anti-magic chest is strong enough to hide its scent from the Abyss itself."
His eyes opened to what appeared to be a medical tent. "huh?"he barely even mouths a whisper, his face all stiff from unuse. "Tsh ah," he groans at the sudden pain in his leg. He only just shifted it.
The cot next to him is already empty. 'Sera?'It slightly smells of her. Faint. Long gone. After tugging at a bandage on his head, he tries to shift his weight upwards toward the top of the pillow. It hurts, so he quits at attempting it.
'Where is everyone?'he thinks, not even trying to voice it. He groans slightly, trying to figure out where and how long he has been out.
((I really like the idea that Nare has a bad leg! i actually have one as well. bruh only 23 and my knee (left one) hurts for no reason all time since forever smh. love this idea yesss))
An Acolyte rushes to your side, with a medic scurrying behind her. "Send notice. The Harengon is awake." The medic nods and scribbles several copies of the same note, while the Acolyte leans in to check your bandages. "Please don't fuss with them," she says as she pulls your paw away from the bandages gently. "I have sent notice to Dawnbound and Headquarters that you are awake. Do you remember your name?" Her voice is soft and caring, and her soulful almond-colored eyes look at you with compassion and kindness. She carefully checks your bangages while she waits for your response.
Everyone Else in Dawnbound!
As the Acolyte and Ne-Haredowell speak, everyone receives a medic messenger, gasping frantically as they skid to stops. "Ne... hah... Ne... huff.. the harengon...hahh... is awake!"
Ororana perks up at the news and begins rushing towards the medical building. "Thanks, sugar!" She cries out to the exhausted messenger, her voice trailing away as she sprints.
An Acolyte rushes to your side, with a medic scurrying behind her. "Send notice. The Harengon is awake." The medic nods and scribbles several copies of the same note, while the Acolyte leans in to check your bandages. "Please don't fuss with them," she says as she pulls your paw away from the bandages gently. "I have sent notice to Dawnbound and Headquarters that you are awake. Do you remember your name?" Her voice is soft and caring, and her soulful almond-colored eyes look at you with compassion and kindness. She carefully checks your bangages while she waits for your response.
Ne'haredowell blinks their eyes awake as if trying to assess if the voice is real only to see the Acolyte rush in front of them. When the Acolyte lightly scolds them, they put their arms up in placation (or at least try; Nare initially moved too fast and had to stop only midway due to their body's painful resistance). So they let the Acolyte gently pull them away for them.
They settle for lightly straightening up while avoiding to move their left leg. "Ough," they groan. 'Pathetic,' they think through clenched fists before swiftly unclenching them for how much it hurts.
Bleary-eyed, Nare opts to take a deep breath instead-'No, not too deep! That hurts too!',they note.
Their eyes drift to their patchwork fur, most of the white has fallen off yet still some clusters remain.
Lifting their head up slowly and carefully, they turn to face the Acolyte. "Nare-"They close their eyes to scrunch their nose a little. "Ne'haredowell..."They same the name thoughtfully composed and softly, albeit strained."Where... where are the others?" Their eyes widen. "My mouse?!"
The sudden movement makes them slightly buckle. They catch themself on the side of the cot before they can fall. They look over to the Acolyte sheepishly to say nothing of their nerves.
"Are they okay?"they manage to mumble out.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
<---- Skippy Doo from A Pup Named Scooby Doo
DM: Drakkenheim Mind and Matter + Blood Secrets + What's in the Here and Now;
Hastos peruses the variety of ranged weapons at the HQ, but none feel quite right. He decides to head back over to the guild forge to see Kasi in hopes she has something there that speaks to him. Hastos is lost in thought as he navigates the crowd under the half cover of his cloak. He smiles and nods to those who recognize him, but keeps a steady pace to the forge. He reflects on conversations and on topics more… adult in nature. “…how would that even be possible with that armor? I mean, there’s no-” Hastos’ thoughts were interrupted by an approaching person running at top speed. Hastos places hand on the hilt of his axe and turns deliberately in the direction of the medic messenger. On recognition, he relaxes his posture and hears that Nare is awake!
”The bow can wait.” He thinks as he thanks the messenger and sprints towards the medical tent.
Sera sat across from Zahir, the smell of freshly brewed coffee filling the small room. She’d asked for his help — and, somehow, ended up listening as he spoke at length about the uncertainty gripping the region.
She sighed quietly, trying to steady herself. The living armor beneath her robes felt warm again, humming faintly with her heartbeat, as if feeding on her thoughts. Zahir’s voice was steady and intelligent, his words sharp with insight — and far too easy to get lost in.
He was handsome, too. That didn’t help. But he had a crush on Orerana, she reminded herself. She dug her nails into her palm until it hurt, anchoring her wandering mind.
He talked about shortages, refugees, and the lingering influence of Sargonnas’ cult even after its defeat. He spoke like a strategist — calm, focused — and Sera found herself straightening in her chair, listening with a kind of practiced attention. He spoke to her as though she were an officer, and that realization stirred something strange inside her.
She’d grown up on a farm and then the streets of Phalantas, not a temple or academy. The idea of command had once felt far away — but now, somehow, it fit.
When he finished, she rose from her chair and moved toward the window, coffee in hand. The sunlight spilled across the table and caught the faint shimmer of her hidden armor beneath her robe.
“So many things to do at once,” she murmured. “Reminds me of harvest season back home. Everything ripening at once, and never enough hands to tend it.”
She turned to him, meeting his eyes. “You have a clear head for these matters, Zahir. You’ve done remarkable work, but don’t burn yourself out. We’ll need your strength for the days ahead.”
Her words came out steady and commanding — almost like an officer’s — and she realized she liked the sound of it. But what she liked didn’t matter. Duty came first.
“Thank you for the coffee,” she added with a softer tone. “I’ll speak with Duncan about growing more of these beans. Now, if you’ll excuse me…”
As she stepped outside, the sharp cry of a messenger caught her attention. The young runner was hurrying from tent to tent, spreading word that Nare had finally awoken.
Relief — and curiosity — struck her in equal measure. The haregon had proven his worth time and again, risking his life against the cultists. Yet he’d never said how he ended up living among them in the first place. A question she would have to ask soon.
She pulled her robe tighter to hide the armor’s smooth, skin-tight shape and hurried toward the medical tents. Her long ponytail whipped behind her as she walked.
Inside, the familiar scent of herbs and oil greeted her. And there was Hastos — tending to supplies, back turned. Her eyes betrayed her for a moment, tracing the lines of his figure before she caught herself.
Damn it, armor… stop that.
She forced her gaze away and focused on the haregon sitting up in bed. Nare looked worn but alive, his long ears twitching as he turned toward her.
Sera crossed the tent and bent down to hug him gently. “Glad to have you with us again,” she said softly, her voice warm despite the swirl of thoughts inside her. “How are you feeling?”
An Acolyte rushes to your side, with a medic scurrying behind her. "Send notice. The Harengon is awake." The medic nods and scribbles several copies of the same note, while the Acolyte leans in to check your bandages. "Please don't fuss with them," she says as she pulls your paw away from the bandages gently. "I have sent notice to Dawnbound and Headquarters that you are awake. Do you remember your name?" Her voice is soft and caring, and her soulful almond-colored eyes look at you with compassion and kindness. She carefully checks your bangages while she waits for your response.
Ne'haredowell blinks their eyes awake as if trying to assess if the voice is real only to see the Acolyte rush in front of them. When the Acolyte lightly scolds them, they put their arms up in placation (or at least try; Nare initially moved too fast and had to stop only midway due to their body's painful resistance). So they let the Acolyte gently pull them away for them.
They settle for lightly straightening up while avoiding to move their left leg. "Ough," they groan. 'Pathetic,' they think through clenched fists before swiftly unclenching them for how much it hurts.
Bleary-eyed, Nare opts to take a deep breath instead-'No, not too deep! That hurts too!',they note.
Their eyes drift to their patchwork fur, most of the white has fallen off yet still some clusters remain.
Lifting their head up slowly and carefully, they turn to face the Acolyte. "Nare-"They close their eyes to scrunch their nose a little. "Ne'haredowell..."They same the name thoughtfully composed and softly, albeit strained."Where... where are the others?" Their eyes widen. "My mouse?!"
The sudden movement makes them slightly buckle. They catch themself on the side of the cot before they can fall. They look over to the Acolyte sheepishly to say nothing of their nerves.
"Are they okay?"they manage to mumble out.
The acolyte points to a cage where your mouse is running on a little wheel. "Your little friend is fine. We've been feeding it nuts and small pieces of fruit while you recover. Would you like me to let it out so you can hold it? You're healthy enough to leave whenever you wish. Your clothing has been washed." She places a folded set of fresh Common Clothes on the bed at your feet. Though they're clean and mended, they're in sorry shape, covered in patches and stitches. Your armor is hanging on a dummy beside your bed.
Sera sat across from Zahir, the smell of freshly brewed coffee filling the small room. She’d asked for his help — and, somehow, ended up listening as he spoke at length about the uncertainty gripping the region.
She sighed quietly, trying to steady herself. The living armor beneath her robes felt warm again, humming faintly with her heartbeat, as if feeding on her thoughts. Zahir’s voice was steady and intelligent, his words sharp with insight — and far too easy to get lost in.
He was handsome, too. That didn’t help. But he had a crush on Orerana, she reminded herself. She dug her nails into her palm until it hurt, anchoring her wandering mind.
He talked about shortages, refugees, and the lingering influence of Sargonnas’ cult even after its defeat. He spoke like a strategist — calm, focused — and Sera found herself straightening in her chair, listening with a kind of practiced attention. He spoke to her as though she were an officer, and that realization stirred something strange inside her.
She’d grown up on a farm and then the streets of Phalantas, not a temple or academy. The idea of command had once felt far away — but now, somehow, it fit.
When he finished, she rose from her chair and moved toward the window, coffee in hand. The sunlight spilled across the table and caught the faint shimmer of her hidden armor beneath her robe.
“So many things to do at once,” she murmured. “Reminds me of harvest season back home. Everything ripening at once, and never enough hands to tend it.”
She turned to him, meeting his eyes. “You have a clear head for these matters, Zahir. You’ve done remarkable work, but don’t burn yourself out. We’ll need your strength for the days ahead.”
Her words came out steady and commanding — almost like an officer’s — and she realized she liked the sound of it. But what she liked didn’t matter. Duty came first.
“Thank you for the coffee,” she added with a softer tone. “I’ll speak with Duncan about growing more of these beans. Now, if you’ll excuse me…”
Zahir bids you farewell with his soft, whispery voice, and remains in his home to tidy up before heading back out to check on his workers.
Sera and Hastos arrive to see that the Acolyte has removed Nare's bandages and given them a cane. She's about to give Nare some privacy to dress when Hastos arrives, followed by Sera. "Ne'Haredowell been unconscious for a very long time, and may have quite a headache. Please speak softly to him. I've given them a cane to steady themself while they regain the strength in their leg. But otherwise, they are fine, and can return to their usual life soon. I'd say light duty as early as tomorrow." With that, she excuses herself and slips away to another patient's room.
In spite of his deep tan, you can see that Zahir is visibly blushing. While Zahir's crush on Ororana is well-known, few in Santekh would say no to an advance from Sera of Dawnbound. And the flattering way that her new armor clings to her body leaves little to the imagination. It takes a long moment of being flustered (and a quick adjustment of his pants) to build up the courage to flirt back, before he sees Sera's embarrassment and discomfort. Respectfully, he clears his throat and re-focuses on the task at hand, assuming the moment has passed.
"Ahem... of course, Mistress Sera. In this isolated region, everyone gets a bit lonely. As for rebuilding the temple, that's quite an undertaking. It's why we left it alone for so long. Before you, a druid of a former guild attempted the same task, but was frustrated by vandals, and eventually left. I assume those vandals were from the Cult of Sargonnas. So now that is no longer an issue. What is an issue, is cost and time. Please, come to my office."
He gestures towards a much smaller building. Small, but cozy, and guides you through the residential district towards it. Outside, it's a fairly standard, drab structure made of clay and stone. But inside, you discover bright colors, soft pillows, and scented candles that adorn the surprisingly cool room. You discover that little figurines, enchanted with cold magic, are tastefully placed throughout the home, emanating a soft, cool radiance. He seems to have a taste for softer things: silks, cottons, and gauzian (brightly colored) drapes. If you didn't know any better, you'd think it was the home of a courtesan. Now that water is available in town, he washes his hands and face, them dries himself with a thick, cotton towel. Then offers a fresh one for you while he brews some coffee. As the coffee percolates, he smiles and puts on a robe before sitting at his desk.
"Plans were drawn up about a month ago for the restoration of the cemetary and holy grounds. But the cost was thought to be too steep, as was the labor demand. The council prioritized housing and a medical station above it... to which I don't disagree. But now, we have housing and a medical building. The walls are sturdy, and our defenses are strong. Everything we need to survive is in place. But I think it's just as important to have what we need to honor the dead and worship... so that we remember why we continue to resist."
He finds the plans he was looking for and places them on his desk. Then gets up to pour you and himself some coffee. As he does, he continues talking.
"Sera, I admire you deeply. What Dawnbound has done for Santekh... I think we would not have survived without your efforts." The coffee smells amazing... with a nutty hint to it, and he offers you a cup. "I would love to rebuild and sanctify the holy grounds with you." He blushes again and shuffles his feet. "For Santekh, of course." He clinks his cup to yours and takes a sip.
The plans detail a variety of build ideas and costs. "To tear down the whole site, consecrate the grounds, and rebuild would cost 50,000 Steel and take over a year to build. But I believe that we can restore the structure for half the cost, and with my workers, it could be done in two months. But there are three setbacks."
He holds up a finger, indicating one. "The ground still needs to be consecrated. That can only be done by Priests, Clerics, or a very powerful Paladin. They would have to work round the clock in shifts, warding or fighting off evil spirits at all major points of the grounds. The task will take an unknowable amount of time. It depends on how... haunted? the grounds are. And the most powerful holy servants in Santekh besides yourself are merely Acolytes. Those with the blessings of a Priest are currently under arrest, because their god of choice was Sargonnas. Of course, Priests can be summoned from Ak-Tubal, but rumor has it, they're under seige. It's unlikely they'll spare their healers in such dire times to help a small outpost restore holy grounds. Another option would be to recover holy artifacts from other desolated sanctoms scattered throughout the desert and Khalkist Mountains. It's possible Piruz or Buckeran would know where to find them. But it's no guarantee that you'll find one that isn't desecrated. Buckeran insists that this land is cursed with magic poisoning. If that's the case, a cursed artifact could do more harm than good."
He holds up a second finger, indicating two. "Many of my workers were Hachakee, or honorary Hachakee, adopted by the tribe. Due to recent events, they have left Santekh, which has greatly reduced my workforce. News of your exploits are starting to spread, and that's raised awareness of our 'trading port' so to speak. It's possible new workers will arrive to aid our cause, but they'd have to cross a treacherous path through the desert that is crawling with monsters and dragon army soldiers to get here. At best, it will take some time. At worst, they will perish on the trail. Hachakee used to escort refugees to safety here in Santekh, but I don't know if they'll do that anymore. Their will has always been their own. But with tensions high, they may seek different allies. The council needs to make peace with the Hachakee. Find a solution that will bring them back to our aid. Previously, that role fell to Rhyanna. Piruz is no negotiator. Amelista might be able to do it, but the Hachakee remember her as a mad doomsday prophet. Her credibility outside of Santekh is questionable at this point. Buckeran is a likeable fellow. If you could get him to arrange a peace summit with the Hachakee, we could get our workers back."
He holds up a third finger. "And third, we've received news that there may be a terrible monster lurking in the cemetary. Amelista has a bounty available for its capture or destruction. Even if we had Priests to ward off evil spirits, they're no real match for enemies of flesh and blood. And my workers would be terrified to build there. Before it can be sanctified, it needs to be cleared of all physical dangers."
He takes another sip of his coffee and sits back, studying your reaction to this information. "As for getting the plans approved... leave that to me. I believe I can sway Amelista and Buckeran. With three on the council, two votes is all I need to make it happen."
She/her, DM and Player.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
Merkas pulls up his new bag and starts pulling things from it, starting with the gems he collected during the Letni Inhelk trip and other things he had collected: Black Saphire, Blue Saphire, Yellow Saphire, Star Saphire, Jacinth, Garnet, Lapis Lazuli, 7 - 5lb bags of coins, 5 - 1lb gem pouches, The Book of Demonology, 100lb of Misc. Foodstuff, 50lb of Medical Supplies, String necklace of small pink pearls, a jeweled anklet.
As the pile grows the kender, almost up to his waste inside the bag of holding, says, “Ah, here they are!” Pulling himself out he holds out two yellow chocolate eggs, one solid chocolate the other filled with caramel. “Which one you want, I like both just as much”
After Buckeran selects one Merkas sits back on one of the crates he just offloaded, unwrapping the egg and taking a bite, before speaking again. “Got most of this stuff from the cult underground, some from the trip to the Letni Inhelk, and the necklace, anklet, and these chocolates from a strange rabbit that showed up in the graveyard that night….a different strange rabbit from Mr. Nare.” Patting the crate he’s sitting on and gesturing to the rest of the food and medical supplies. “I want this all to go to the town, free of charge, as for the gems, coin bags, jewelry and stuff, sell it all and use what you need for the guild hall and stables, the rest can help recover your costs and to help the town. Dawnbound has some other things they want to do so maybe clear with them on what they want to use the funds for, pretty sure Sera was looking at helping with the Temple and stuff, Hastos I think might be involved with the garrison or something, he’s been pretty quiet though, oh and setting some aside for training new members would be nice.”
Finishing his egg he thinks for a bit, talking through a mouthful of chocolate, nearly spitting the candy out in his excitement. “Hey! You think that we could get a magic map table that pinpoints all the message board quests on it, that way people could pick a couple that are in the same direction, or plan a route to catch more than one at a time. Or we could send recruits through a series of small quests in a sorta training tour based on whats available at the time?!”
Loyalty Begets Honour
Buckeran chuckles merrily as he watches loot pile up around you! A kender after his own heart!
"I'll make certain the food and medical supplies are taken to the hospital. As for the gems, coin bags, and jewelry, I know a gem cutter in town. Well... I knew one. Amber, Tekel's sister, runs Amber's Gallery. She's been adopted by the Hachakee Tribe, and followed them into the desert. But the shop is still open and run by her employees." He waves a three-fingered hand, "No offense intended towards humans, but without a kender running that shop, they're helpless at haggling compared to us. I can't think of a better time to sell those treasures."
He licks his lips and perks up after finishing the chocolate. Merkas feels more perked as well, like the chocolate candy has restored their hope.
Merkas has Heroic Inspiration from eating the chocolate.
Buckeran collects:
Buckeran puts on a jewlers loop and carefully assesses the value of everything he looks through, and quotes you prices for each item. The process takes several hours. But when he gets to the Demonomican, he lets out a low whistle. "Do you know what you have found? How? Wha- Piruz would..." He removes his jewler's loop and puts on his magic monacle. But staring at it more than a few moments makes him clutch his head in pain, and he removes the monacle. His eyes are buldging out of his skull with surprise, and he wipes his sweat-beaded brow with a soft cloth. "It's real... it's... it's authentic! Oh, my head!" He rubs his temples, then carefuly places the book in an anti-magic chest. "Merkas! Where did you find Demonomicon of Iggwilv?!"
For the first time, he seems truly shaken. Not even Ibahalii Vriwhulth had him rattled. But this book truly frightens him.
She/her, DM and Player.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
Hastos spent his downtime reading and stretching. He finds a book on archery and consumes it, followed by a small book on meditative arts that improves one ability to reduce certain types of physical injuries. The scar left from the wizards blade softened with time, but there was always a lingering pain that reminded him of the encounter in the sewers.
He worried about Sera and Nare, but his worry for Sera was different, deeper. After they were able to see the two of them again, Hastos’ mood lightened, but he held a real concern for the chitinous armor that had bonded with her. This combined with his own thoughts on feeling so exposed left him introspective in the evening hours. But his new learning of archery pushed him out in search of a bow. He stops at one of the vendors to see where he might find a Boyer he thanks the young man for the information and turns to see Sera walking away. Had she noticed him? The young man grabs his attention and asks if him to meet his family. Hastos hurriedly shakes their hands, and rubs the child on the top of the head before trying to catch up with her. Following her last path, Hastos hurriedly tried to gain ground. He turns a corner to see Sera talking to the young artificer. As he approaches, Sera and the young man head toward the other building, clearly having business.
Hastos suddenly feels awkward about interrupting their conversation and decides not to intrude. Instead he decides to continue his search for a bow.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
“Oh, i found it down where that undead guy was who didn’t like things leaving the room, that reminds me” He goes back to digging through the bag of holding as his muffled voice comes out the top “There’s a bunch of other stuff too! Didn’t have time to figure out what they all were, just knew they felt magical and stuff”
He starts pulling out the magical items that they had recovered, apart from the ones his friends claimed, 5 sets of armour, an Arrow catching shield and four other shields, a Ring of the Ram, a Ring of Resistance (type unknown), Ring of Jumping, Ring of Warmth, another garnet (“Hey how’d I miss you before!?”), the failed experiment wand and two others, Starshot crossbow, Berserker Great Axe, and 4 other magical weapons.
Finally having cleared all the extras from his bag he stops and stares at Bucky again. “Wait? Is that book really that bad?!” He moves over beside the older treasure hunter. “What do you think we should do with it? Like is it going to make things harder for the town, or can we stash it in one of your special cases to keep it from waking up and attacking people? Or maybe the bag I found is definitely magical you think that would help contain it’s evilness? Is it’s evil like that crazy deathcursed golden scythe Tekel has?” (Insight=9 on how to store the book, History=4 and Religion=12 on who/what Iggwilv is) “Don’t know that I ever heard of ‘Iguana Love’. Weird name for a Demonomomicon, y’know”
Loyalty Begets Honour
((THIS IS THE FUNNIEST THING TO ME))
The mouse on his shoulders felt the tremors first before he could even grasp what was happening. Sure, he heard it. Then the tremors. But it wasn't until the eidolon's soft 'no' that confirmed it. Was he loosing touch with his hare instincts? He didn't know. Didn't have time to think when all of sudden him and everything else was washed away.
The water floods the tunnel before he even has a chance to close his gaping wide mouth. Footsteps. Sera was already running. 'Where-'
His head smashes against a wall. Yanked in every direction. Air escapes his throat only to be filled with water instead. Couldn't even focus. Aborted attempts at growing gills.
Scrambling paws reach out. Clawing. Droplets blast his eyes, filling the room with off and on darkness. He hadn't even had the chance to look. Too busy in his own head. Too focused on the eidolon. Now it was all over.
A split second decision, he changes course. The warmth of the mouse under his helmet. It reminds him. What to fight for, once again. 'How did you even get up there?' No, no time to lose. Not just yet. He grips onto something. Slippery. Wet. Stable.
"Nare...NARE!.."
His name. He hears it over the water in the tunnels. "Ser- SERA?!" he shouts, his head fighting against the current. Pushing off against the wall, Ne'haredowell doggy-paddles (or would it be rabbit-paddles) over, muscles tiring.
"swim... gigantic carrot..." Straining over the sound of the waves, Nare couldn't even do a double take with blink. "What-?!" he attempts to yell at both what was the rest of what she meant to say and also the meaning of it. Is that what she thought of him? Not that it was wrong! He could go for a really big carrot at the moment. The thought of it, the fact that she thought it is what his motivations were, was really funny.
The harengon would've laughed at it: the absurdity of it all, being in a waterslide of a sewer and imagining a giant carrot at the end of it all. 'What a ride,' he thinks fondly, snorting, water going up his nose.
Before he could react, the paralyzed body of the eidolon smacks right into him. The shattering of his leg feels like million tiny icicles run throughout his body. His body thunks against the cold tile of the tomb. Not even time for a gasp.The last of his thoughts fizzles out as it fades to black before he could even see the surface.
His heart was racing for what felt like forever. He could feel it though he wasn't really there. Everything was black and gray. Like when you close your eyes and stare at the static between your eyelids. Which was what he was basically was doing. He didn't realize it was already over a week when it all happened.
His eyes opened to what appeared to be a medical tent. "huh?" he barely even mouths a whisper, his face all stiff from unuse. "Tsh ah," he groans at the sudden pain in his leg. He only just shifted it.
The cot next to him is already empty. 'Sera?' It slightly smells of her. Faint. Long gone. After tugging at a bandage on his head, he tries to shift his weight upwards toward the top of the pillow. It hurts, so he quits at attempting it.
'Where is everyone?' he thinks, not even trying to voice it. He groans slightly, trying to figure out where and how long he has been out.
<---- Skippy Doo from A Pup Named Scooby Doo
DM: Drakkenheim Mind and Matter + Blood Secrets + What's in the Here and Now;
Player: Ibahalii Vriwhulth; Test Run
Hastos has no trouble finding what he needs. Handar is still holding onto:
But HQ collected hordes of bows and arrows that washed up when the sewers overflowed. They're cleaned and distributed to the guards, but the backstock is being sold off at standard rates to fund the cause.
Since you're part of Santekh's Official Guild, you get 20% off, so flash your guild insignia, and take the Guild Discount. If you use a guild artisan in your guild hall, you get 50% off.
Kasi also has +1 and +2 ranged weapons and ammo for you to peruse in the Guild Forge. She's moved all her merchandise into the guild, and can sell bows and quivers at half price to guild members. If you wish to acquire something with a specific ability, she'll need to craft it for you.
*** Placeholder for more content, I gotta go pick up my roommate from surgery. He's recovering nicely and they're letting him out today. ***
She/her, DM and Player.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
"Iggwilv," Buckeran corrects slowly, not daring to allow the name to be disrespected. "And yes. An expansive treatise documenting the Abyss's infinite layers and inhabitants, the Demonomicon of lggwilv is the most thorough and blasphemous tome of demonology in the multiverse. The tome recounts both the oldest and most current profanities of the Abyss and demons. Demons have attempted to censor the text, and while sections have been ripped from the book's spine, the general chapters remain, ever revealing demonic secrets. And the book holds more than blasphemies. Caged behind lines of script roils a secret piece of the Abyss itself, which keeps the book up-to-date, no matter how many pages are removed, and it longs to be more than mere reference material," Buckeran recites as if he had drilled the speech into his mind.
"By attuning to it, its bearer can cast powerful spells up to eight times per day." He wobbles his hand as if to say, ehhhh, "Theeere are benefits to using it, but also risks. It's different from bearer to bearer. Some notice that animals are hostile to them. Others may experience an insatiable hunger and thirst. Or those near them have unrestful sleep. But in trade, you may gain the ability to become immune to many conditions, like disease, and can no longer be charmed or frightened. Some even gain the ability to cast an all new cantrip or higher level spell. But even without those benefits, many still would consider it to be a highly valuable asset. Why... just Planar Ally, or Tasha's Hideous Laughter alone would be worth the risk."
He doesn't even seem to be noticing the other books and treasures at the moment. His expression is unusually serious. "That sack you're carrying is called a Bag of Holding. It's essentially a portable dimension, similar to this mansion I reside in. It's possible that, by keeping the book in that bag, you've kept its location a mystery. Whatever undead thing was guarding it must've been quite powerful. Otherwise the sewers would've been crawling with foul Abyssal abominations depending on how long it was stored there."
He frowns. "My boy, as a procurer of such items, this would be the crown jewel of my collection. But for the safety of Santekh, and myself, I don't think I can store it for you. If demons should find my mansion and come for it, I'd be inadequate to fend it off. I don't believe an anti-magic chest is strong enough to hide its scent from the Abyss itself."
An Acolyte rushes to your side, with a medic scurrying behind her. "Send notice. The Harengon is awake." The medic nods and scribbles several copies of the same note, while the Acolyte leans in to check your bandages. "Please don't fuss with them," she says as she pulls your paw away from the bandages gently. "I have sent notice to Dawnbound and Headquarters that you are awake. Do you remember your name?" Her voice is soft and caring, and her soulful almond-colored eyes look at you with compassion and kindness. She carefully checks your bangages while she waits for your response.
Everyone Else in Dawnbound!
As the Acolyte and Ne-Haredowell speak, everyone receives a medic messenger, gasping frantically as they skid to stops. "Ne... hah... Ne... huff.. the harengon...hahh... is awake!"
Ororana perks up at the news and begins rushing towards the medical building. "Thanks, sugar!" She cries out to the exhausted messenger, her voice trailing away as she sprints.
She/her, DM and Player.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk
Ne'haredowell blinks their eyes awake as if trying to assess if the voice is real only to see the Acolyte rush in front of them. When the Acolyte lightly scolds them, they put their arms up in placation (or at least try; Nare initially moved too fast and had to stop only midway due to their body's painful resistance). So they let the Acolyte gently pull them away for them.
They settle for lightly straightening up while avoiding to move their left leg. "Ough," they groan. 'Pathetic,' they think through clenched fists before swiftly unclenching them for how much it hurts.
Bleary-eyed, Nare opts to take a deep breath instead- 'No, not too deep! That hurts too!', they note.
Their eyes drift to their patchwork fur, most of the white has fallen off yet still some clusters remain.
Lifting their head up slowly and carefully, they turn to face the Acolyte. "Nare-" They close their eyes to scrunch their nose a little. "Ne'haredowell..." They same the name thoughtfully composed and softly, albeit strained. "Where... where are the others?" Their eyes widen. "My mouse?!"
The sudden movement makes them slightly buckle. They catch themself on the side of the cot before they can fall. They look over to the Acolyte sheepishly to say nothing of their nerves.
"Are they okay?" they manage to mumble out.
<---- Skippy Doo from A Pup Named Scooby Doo
DM: Drakkenheim Mind and Matter + Blood Secrets + What's in the Here and Now;
Player: Ibahalii Vriwhulth; Test Run
Hastos peruses the variety of ranged weapons at the HQ, but none feel quite right. He decides to head back over to the guild forge to see Kasi in hopes she has something there that speaks to him. Hastos is lost in thought as he navigates the crowd under the half cover of his cloak. He smiles and nods to those who recognize him, but keeps a steady pace to the forge. He reflects on conversations and on topics more… adult in nature. “…how would that even be possible with that armor? I mean, there’s no-” Hastos’ thoughts were interrupted by an approaching person running at top speed.
Hastos places hand on the hilt of his axe and turns deliberately in the direction of the medic messenger. On recognition, he relaxes his posture and hears that Nare is awake!
”The bow can wait.” He thinks as he thanks the messenger and sprints towards the medical tent.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Sera sat across from Zahir, the smell of freshly brewed coffee filling the small room. She’d asked for his help — and, somehow, ended up listening as he spoke at length about the uncertainty gripping the region.
She sighed quietly, trying to steady herself. The living armor beneath her robes felt warm again, humming faintly with her heartbeat, as if feeding on her thoughts. Zahir’s voice was steady and intelligent, his words sharp with insight — and far too easy to get lost in.
He was handsome, too. That didn’t help. But he had a crush on Orerana, she reminded herself. She dug her nails into her palm until it hurt, anchoring her wandering mind.
He talked about shortages, refugees, and the lingering influence of Sargonnas’ cult even after its defeat. He spoke like a strategist — calm, focused — and Sera found herself straightening in her chair, listening with a kind of practiced attention. He spoke to her as though she were an officer, and that realization stirred something strange inside her.
She’d grown up on a farm and then the streets of Phalantas, not a temple or academy. The idea of command had once felt far away — but now, somehow, it fit.
When he finished, she rose from her chair and moved toward the window, coffee in hand. The sunlight spilled across the table and caught the faint shimmer of her hidden armor beneath her robe.
“So many things to do at once,” she murmured. “Reminds me of harvest season back home. Everything ripening at once, and never enough hands to tend it.”
She turned to him, meeting his eyes. “You have a clear head for these matters, Zahir. You’ve done remarkable work, but don’t burn yourself out. We’ll need your strength for the days ahead.”
Her words came out steady and commanding — almost like an officer’s — and she realized she liked the sound of it. But what she liked didn’t matter. Duty came first.
“Thank you for the coffee,” she added with a softer tone. “I’ll speak with Duncan about growing more of these beans. Now, if you’ll excuse me…”
As she stepped outside, the sharp cry of a messenger caught her attention. The young runner was hurrying from tent to tent, spreading word that Nare had finally awoken.
Relief — and curiosity — struck her in equal measure. The haregon had proven his worth time and again, risking his life against the cultists. Yet he’d never said how he ended up living among them in the first place. A question she would have to ask soon.
She pulled her robe tighter to hide the armor’s smooth, skin-tight shape and hurried toward the medical tents. Her long ponytail whipped behind her as she walked.
Inside, the familiar scent of herbs and oil greeted her. And there was Hastos — tending to supplies, back turned. Her eyes betrayed her for a moment, tracing the lines of his figure before she caught herself.
Damn it, armor… stop that.
She forced her gaze away and focused on the haregon sitting up in bed. Nare looked worn but alive, his long ears twitching as he turned toward her.
Sera crossed the tent and bent down to hug him gently. “Glad to have you with us again,” she said softly, her voice warm despite the swirl of thoughts inside her. “How are you feeling?”
The acolyte points to a cage where your mouse is running on a little wheel. "Your little friend is fine. We've been feeding it nuts and small pieces of fruit while you recover. Would you like me to let it out so you can hold it? You're healthy enough to leave whenever you wish. Your clothing has been washed." She places a folded set of fresh Common Clothes on the bed at your feet. Though they're clean and mended, they're in sorry shape, covered in patches and stitches. Your armor is hanging on a dummy beside your bed.
Zahir bids you farewell with his soft, whispery voice, and remains in his home to tidy up before heading back out to check on his workers.
Sera and Hastos arrive to see that the Acolyte has removed Nare's bandages and given them a cane. She's about to give Nare some privacy to dress when Hastos arrives, followed by Sera. "Ne'Haredowell been unconscious for a very long time, and may have quite a headache. Please speak softly to him. I've given them a cane to steady themself while they regain the strength in their leg. But otherwise, they are fine, and can return to their usual life soon. I'd say light duty as early as tomorrow." With that, she excuses herself and slips away to another patient's room.
She/her, DM and Player.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk