Sera goes to her room in the Bastion...one she have not really decorated that much yet and sit on her simple bed. The tension over the revelations getting her some and she breathe fast and uneven...before calming down and gathers her belongings. The book from Duncan and prepare herself with the equipment she have. Stepping out she ask one of the new recruits to get ready to tag along and assist on this quest.
Then goes to the meeting point early and sit in the chill desert night waiting. Watching Krynns white moon rise and behind it follow the red moon. Silently praying to her god and trusting he watch over her....and hope he one day greet her when her time here is done.
As the people disperse Hastos returns and purchases the bow Cassie was offering him and quiver arrows, as well as a quiver of the healing arrows.. He then heads back up and gathers his things, making sure his packs have a set of rations in them. He then heads back downstairs and sees Sera waiting in the moonlight. He walks over but notices that she is deep in prayer and decides to keep a little distance until she’s done, trying not to create noise to disturb her. (Stealth: 10)
The air is still, and there’s a hint of moisture in the air – something that has has not become accustomed to yet. There is the distant murmur of voices broken occasionally by faint laughter. The smells of the day, of people and food, are melting away in the crisp night air.
Orr the Unseen slinks out of the shadows, carrying an Explorers Pack over their loosely draped robes. Their ornate tattoos seem to serve as a magic focus, and almost seem to shimmer alluringly in the moondlight.
"I have been summoned and am ready, Master Hastos." They address Hastos with a soft whisper, to preserve Sera's silent reverie. Orr's revealing... almost scandalous, clothing seems hardly appropriate for desert travel. But they seem unaffected by the chill night air as they gaze up into the moon. In fact, they almost seem to be bathing in it. Their eyes sparkle against the stars with curiousity and adoration at the naked sky, but they say no more.
Hastos stands unmoving as Orr emerges from the shadows.“That was quick.“ he says calmly. Hastos glances at Orr‘s attire, “Are you sure you have, uhh, everything you need?“ again, keeping his voice low so I has not disturb Seras prayers.
Sera heard Hastos sneaning like a descreet elephant. She smiled at his consideration and when Orr arrived she gave a smirk. " well you for sure catch the eye Orr. If you feel you are equipped properly...then all well. " biting her tounge as she still said things with double meanings. before she could think over it and blush she hands him the Javelin if lightning and wand of magic missiles. Giving short instructions on their use. Trying not stare to unpolite. She did enjoy Orrs appearances and now Hastos butt of attraction would get some competition. As to reflect her thoughts her armor slightly started reaveal her cleavage and skin. Getting daring sexy in its form on her. Sera pulled her robes tighter. Hiding it for now -trying to pimp me out armor? - she thought and shaked her head hoping Merkas or Buckeran would show up. Preferable Buckeran with dry facts good to kill any sensual mood. Else she was unsure what would happen.
Handar grins at Merkas. Kasi smiles and heads towards HQ to tell the other counciors and send a guard escort to find the stranger.
Merkas finds Buckeran sifting through his gear, re-evaluating his choices for traveling equipment. He seems giddy, but deep in thought and his eyes brighten with even more excitement when he sees you! "Merkas my boy! I'm so excited about this adventure! You know, when I first came to Santekh, I intended to join the army. They took one look at my hands, and assigned me a desk job." He laughs as he looks at his marred hands. "They're probably right, but I never really lost my wanderlust. Goblins, orcs, ogres, and bubgears... I've faced them all. But in my whole life, I've never seen a dragon! I had hoped that fighting the Dragon Armies would increase my chances of changing that! But... my adventuring days are behind me... I thought!" He clenches his fist. "But maybe there's one last grand adventure in me!"
You also see Kasi, heading into Amelista's office. Buckeran raises a bushy eyebrow. "Kasi seems to be taking to her role well. I'm glad to see it!"
Hastos can still make purchases from the Guild Shop through Ringmar, whom Kasi has entrusted to watch the shop when she has to handle Council business. What are Sera and Ne'Haredowell doing?
“Yeah, Gramma is doing great, already taken a good step towards clearing her name with how she’s handling the food supplies and stuff”Merkas agrees as he helps Buckeran load things in Barkly “I hope there’s more than one adventure left, ‘cause that way you can tell me how you got that house to act like my bag of holding, or maybe the protections you have, those fancy golems and such”
After loading up the giant strider the two climb up and head towards the others. Not knowing there was any prayers or private conversation happening, Merkas has Barkly announce their arrival and desire to depart through a series of yips and barks. “Hey! Everyone ready? Is Mr. Nare joining us?” Looking over Orr he says “Guess you’ll be needing the fires at night as much as Barkly”The Strider watches the mage like meat ready to cook, Merkas pets the side of he neck as he says to her “No, no, he’s a guild member, we’re gonna hunt for fresh meat for you and you get to cook it however you like“
Hastos stands unmoving as Orr emerges from the shadows.“That was quick.“ he says calmly. Hastos glances at Orr‘s attire, “Are you sure you have, uhh, everything you need?“ again, keeping his voice low so I has not disturb Seras prayers.
"My needs are few..." Orr says, and pats a small bag on their back. They turn their head slowly to look, unblinking, at Hastos, and the starlight seems to still be caught in their eyes. "Sky, earth, and water. Food for nourishment. Friends to follow. A purpose to serve..."
Sera heard Hastos sneaning like a descreet elephant. She smiled at his consideration and when Orr arrived she gave a smirk. " well you for sure catch the eye Orr. If you feel you are equipped properly...then all well. " biting her tounge as she still said things with double meanings. before she could think over it and blush she hands him the Javelin if lightning and wand of magic missiles. Giving short instructions on their use. Trying not stare to unpolite. She did enjoy Orrs appearances and now Hastos butt of attraction would get some competition. As to reflect her thoughts her armor slightly started reaveal her cleavage and skin. Getting daring sexy in its form on her. Sera pulled her robes tighter. Hiding it for now -trying to pimp me out armor? - she thought and shaked her head hoping Merkas or Buckeran would show up. Preferable Buckeran with dry facts good to kill any sensual mood. Else she was unsure what would happen.
"Thank you, Mistress Sera. You are, as well, as beautiful as any star..." Their voice remains soft, barely above a whisper when they speak, adding an odd gentleness to their manner, that nearly seems fey. When they receive the lightning spear and wand, they offer a liquid bow that bares an unexpected grace from an orc. "Generous gifts, Mistress. I will strive to be worthy of them."
“Yeah, Gramma is doing great, already taken a good step towards clearing her name with how she’s handling the food supplies and stuff”Merkas agrees as he helps Buckeran load things in Barkly “I hope there’s more than one adventure left, ‘cause that way you can tell me how you got that house to act like my bag of holding, or maybe the protections you have, those fancy golems and such”
"Well, you're in luck!" Buckeran says as he escorts you out towards the main part of his office and closes the door behind him. He pulls out a special, golden key and places it in the lock. When he turns it, the door disappears, leaving nothing but a wall with the same elaborate filigree on it as the rest of the room. He drops the key into his waistcoat pocket and winks at you. "Home sweet home!"
A small model of Buckeran's Palace of Wonders appears before his feet. He picks it up and sets it into his Handy Haversack. "It's coming with us! At my age, you learn to value comfort. For this adventure, we travel the rugged wastes... but we rest in style."
Barely containing a chuckle at his impressive keepsake, he finally composes himself and points towards Santekh's main gate. "To adventure!"
After loading up the giant strider the two climb up and head towards the others. Not knowing there was any prayers or private conversation happening, Merkas has Barkly announce their arrival and desire to depart through a series of yips and barks. “Hey! Everyone ready? Is Mr. Nare joining us?” Looking over Orr he says “Guess you’ll be needing the fires at night as much as Barkly”The Strider watches the mage like meat ready to cook, Merkas pets the side of he neck as he says to her “No, no, he’s a guild member, we’re gonna hunt for fresh meat for you and you get to cook it however you like“
Orr the Unseen turns their body slowly as Merkas, Barkly, and Buckeran approach and gaze upon them with that same, unblinking stare, and bows... pointedly at Barkly, who surprisingly bows in return.
"Grey Starfire is a friend... not food. Blue Spark has many things that are not food," Merkas hears Barkly say. To the rest of you, it just seems like Barkly is making bird sounds. "Red Flame is here."
Barkly remains steadfastly beside Merkas, but keeps their posture watchful of Sera, like a guard dog.
Buckeran, too caught up in excitement to even try to understand the exchange, chimes in. "Orr the Unseen! Master of Ceremonies and special effects in the entertainment district. I must say, your light shows will become legendary in Santekh. Tell me... how fare things at the Grey Room? I haven't been in a few weeks."
Orr the Unseen turns their gaze to Buckeran. "Our dancers have noticed your absence, and your generosity. The Grey Room thrives, nevertheless. Perhaps they would welcome you back with a private show. Dana, the candlemaker, has sold us some candles that provide enchanting light for our show for the duration of my journey."
Buckeran blushes, clearly enjoying the prospect of a private show. But he digs in his Haversack and pulls out a map. "As you know, I'm no longer capabable of combat. Never was much of a fighter anyway. But I have a map, and many wondrous things in my pack! Including a Portable Hole!"
He pulls out a small, black silky handkercheif from his waistcoat, and unfolds it into a black circle about 10' wide and puts his hand through it, but it doesn't come out the other side. "It can't hold a limitless amount of treasure, but any findings can be stored in my palace without overtaxxing our bodies by carrying heavy loads. We simply fill it up, close it, bring it to my palace, and repeat the process until we've taking what we need. Brilliant, no?"
He neatly folds the portable hole, "I can't store it in the Haversack, or the palace... I think it might cause a nasty explosion. But it's safe enough right here!" He pats his waistcoat proudly. "With you four protecting me anyway." Barkly bawks. "My apologies, dear Barkly! Five!"
That said, he begins stretching his hamstrings, as if preparing for some kind of race. "Shall we?"
Sera nods. Glad to be traveling some again. The wilderness appealed to her right now. The stress and resurfacing of too many bad memories kinda faded in the great wilderness. " Let us go. Merkas you do peremiter scouting up ahead as we travel? You have a mount at least....and I am sure it is eagerly trying to hunt same time." Sera checked her gear one last time. She did not bring barrels for water this time but a few waterskins would be handy.
Marching out through the gate, the new guard bids you a safe journey. Beyond the newly reinforced walls of Santekh, the wind blasts you with sand and a chill cuts into your bones, but you boldly march forward, southeast, away from the guiding ridge of the Khalkist Mountains...
While sporadic storm clouds flit by, they almost seem to flee the region. And those of you sensitive to magic can understand why. The magic in the air feels spoiled... almost toxic as you make your way through the wastelands. Ancient ruins and war machines are partially buried under deep dunes of troubled sand. Violent death plagues this land. How the Hachakee still manage to thrive in this region is a true testament to their hardy and determined spirit. You pass by the Hachakee territory... a distant spark of a campfire to your right, near the mountain range that they use as a natural wind barrier.
Buckeran puts on some goggles to guard his eyes from the sand-filled wind and studies his map. He points in the direction you're already marching, but in the wind, his voice is barely perceivable. After coughing out a mouthful of sand, he adds a bandana to cover his mouth and nose. Fully bundled, except for his bald pate, he looks like a ruddy dot bobbing up and down on Barkly's back. Barkly seems to be glowing as well, using her own inner fire to combat the cold, but appears to be otherwise unbothered by the wind and sand. Buckeran and Merkas can feel the warmth emanating from her body... a skill she can only use for so long until she needs more fuel.
Most of the trip is quiet. With the windstorm, predators have chosen to bunker down and wait it out before continuing their nightly hunt. And with the Hachakee still performing their patrols, Dragon Army threats are minimal at this distance from the fortress. But progress is still slow. The sand shifts beneath your feet, and the air cuts through your clothes straight to the bone like icy daggers. Buckeran calls for a break after you've marched halfway through the night.
He pulls out a tiny model of his Palace of Wonders, and sets it on a rock, shielding it from the storm with his cloak, and shouts something that sounds like "Moany Bones!" The model expands into a full sized palace and he invites everyone to come inside. Once in, he dusts himself off... caked in layers of desert sand, he almost looks like a moving statue of himself. "Brrrr! Brisk night for a walk, eh?" He says in unexpectedly good spirit. "The storm is an unpleasant and unexpected twist, but I believe they'll only get worse as we get to the dragon's lair, as the cursed magic becomes more chaotic."
He sets a fire and lays out a pallete of coals next to it for Barkly to build a nest out of. "Barkly's heat was diminishing, which I took as my queue to break camp. At least until she restores her energy. The larder has food... hanging meats, vegetables, herbs and spices... anything you need to make a fantastic meal! And there are private rooms if you wish to take a nap. Water has a tendency to slosh while I'm travelling with it, so I'm afraid I don't have much to spare... but I have a few barrels down there requisitioned for this mission. If you're conservative with it, we'll have enough to bathe in for a few days, if you don't mind sharing. The baths can be heated and seat up to four. *hack* But first, let's slake our thirst..." He says, choking on some dust.
He pulls an Alchemy Jug from his Haversack and summons some wine. Then pulls some wooden goblets from an ornate hutch. "Glass doesn't hold up well in an Instant Fortress, but these goblets are quite lovely and will do the trick, I think!" He sets them on a tray and fills them. Then he sets the tray down on a table made of petrified wood. The chairs and sofas surrounding it are plush and comfortable, and Merkas and Hastos have taken their fair share of naps on them while under house arrest. The art and tapestries, nailed to the wall for reasons you now fully understand, add a classy and luxurious ambience to the place.
Barkly enters the room nervously... observing just how much of the place is made of wood. Merkas can tell that she's freezing and would very much like to curl up on those coals.
Orr the Unseen takes the place in, having never been here before. Their eyes scan the room quietly. Accustomed to wealthy nobles hiring them for private services, Orr is no stranger to luxury. But the sheer vastness of this place impresses them. Most Instant Fortresses, even though they are fairly rare, are just that. Defensible, but practical walls of stone with minimal decoration and furnishing, if any. Buckeran must've acquired this from a powerful and ancient wizard somehow, who probably spent a lifetime modifying the enchantments that converted a powerful enchantment into a luxury travel mansion.
The travel mansion was not what she expected. A part of her hoped for fresh air and wilderness. Now they did not even need a gusrd to keep watch.
" Buckeran this is magnificent....and we can even take a bath later? How wonderful. I can add in some water if needed..." she give Hastos a sly wink. " We better get some rest...everything so grand hete . How big are the beds I wonder.. "
As it’s clear they’ll be spending some time here, Hastos begins to examine the entryway and front of the house for its defensive capabilities. “This is really impressive, Buckeran. Will this door hold up to someone trying to get in?” He asks inquisitively.
Hastos glances at Sera, her comment taking him off guard… again. In an instant his expression rapidly shifts from surprise, to bashful, to a slightly nervous glance at her new armor.
”It, uh, looks rugged enough.” He continues as he regains his composure. “Sera… is… right. We should take advantage of rest where we can.”
Hastos takes a sip of the wine. The wind outside whips around the house, He can hear distant parts of the palace creak ever so slightly. It not entirely unlike the distant sound of tree limbs creaking in the eve of a storm. The sound begins to relax him and he covers a yawn.
Merkas helps Barkly settle into the coals, as well as pulling a few jars from his bag that are radiating heat, “Saved these for when you need a goid healing but for now they can keep you warm, speaking of, Hey Bucky is it ok for me to put a magic bonfire under Bucky for a bit?”
Hastos question about the defences perk his ears and he calls back, “If the door doesn’t then there’s some golem guys that will stop whoever it is.”
“Oh, well, I guess Buckerons got that covered then.” After a pause he continues “I think I’m going to take this opportunity to shed this armor and actually relax for a change. Not too many places where one can feel truly safe.”
Hastos heads up to one of the rooms. The accommodations were far more than he required. He cold hear the wind more acutely here, but the thickness of the walls made it sound distant and unthreatening. He slipped off the armor, a slight groan when getting the pauldrons off. The wound from the tunnels still aching.
He piled the pieces neatly against the wall and propped his sword, axe, and shield in a row making it easy to get to - just in case. He spent such little time out of them he felt genuinely vulnerable.
The travel mansion was not what she expected. A part of her hoped for fresh air and wilderness. Now they did not even need a gusrd to keep watch.
" Buckeran this is magnificent....and we can even take a bath later? How wonderful. I can add in some water if needed..." she give Hastos a sly wink. " We better get some rest...everything so grand hete . How big are the beds I wonder.. "
"Quite large! er... for me anyway. I suppose a human and an elf might need to snuggle up a bit," he says with an endearing chuckle. "I thought perhaps a short rest would be nice, to at least see if the storn dies down. If not, we can make the choice to power through or wait it out."
Pressing forward through the storm will require a CON Save.
As it’s clear they’ll be spending some time here, Hastos begins to examine the entryway and front of the house for its defensive capabilities. “This is really impressive, Buckeran. Will this door hold up to someone trying to get in?” He asks inquisitively.
Hastos glances at Sera, her comment taking him off guard… again. In an instant his expression rapidly shifts from surprise, to bashful, to a slightly nervous glance at her new armor.
”It, uh, looks rugged enough.” He continues as he regains his composure. “Sera… is… right. We should take advantage of rest where we can.”
Hastos takes a sip of the wine. The wind outside whips around the house, He can hear distant parts of the palace creak ever so slightly. It not entirely unlike the distant sound of tree limbs creaking in the eve of a storm. The sound begins to relax him and he covers a yawn.
"Most Instant Fortresses are practically impenetrable, but this particualar model has been heavily modified for comfort and ambiance..." He spreads his arms wide and raises his long, bushy eyebrows, as if to say the risks pay for themselves in luxury. "Besides, anthing powerful enough to condone this storm, won't be concerned about our front door. And we will have much bigger concerns from its maw!"
Merkas helps Barkly settle into the coals, as well as pulling a few jars from his bag that are radiating heat, “Saved these for when you need a goid healing but for now they can keep you warm, speaking of, Hey Bucky is it ok for me to put a magic bonfire under Bucky for a bit?”
Hastos question about the defences perk his ears and he calls back, “If the door doesn’t then there’s some golem guys that will stop whoever it is.”
Buckeran grimaces. 😬An apolagetic baring of teeth, more than anything... "Unfortunately, those are assigned to guard the treasures that are being safeguarded at HQ. So, they're still back in Santekh, along with any magic items I didn't requisition for this mission. My only real defenses here..." He uses what fingers and thumbs he has left to make "finger guns" and waves them at you, "are you. And of cou- OH! What now?"
He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a candied treat. "Is it that time already? How delightful! You know, there's a myth that adventurers get special treats. It's true! In my days as a bandit, I got all sorts of... haunted coins, broken scrying mirrors, combs that changed your hair color! Nowadays... it's mostly chocolate, or sour candies."
A pocket forms in Sera's armor, holding a a strange, scrimshawed tooth with the phrase "Gizelcumab" written on it. The tooth itself is long enough to be converted into a dagger, and at first you think its a horn. Whatever this mouth came from must be quite large. DC 10 (Arcana, History, Religion) with Advantage to discover more. Remove Advantage if you don't want Beuckeran to know about the tooth.
Merkas, and only Merkas, starts hearing, "Myeah, see... never gonna catch me...Tryta' put a hit on me? Well I don't fall that easy, wise guy!" You feel the weight of new jewelry around your neck, and look down to see a bronze pentacle with an etching of a rat's head in its center. "I'll be back, copper, with a pair of concrete shoes for ya's!"
Hastas feels his pack getting heavier and pulls out a thick, embroidered, leather-bound tome written in ancient Draconic. The artwork is exquisite, and based on the images, details the story of a legendary hero baring a familiar weapon.
Buckeran eats his candy, and makes a very unpleasant face, but laughs all the same. "Oh that is awful! It appears tonight I was cursed! Hahaha! A little wine will wash that down though." He takes several large gulps of the sweet wine and swirls it around his mouth before swallowing. "And where, pray tell, is Jasper? I imagine she made her petition as well. I wonder what kind of treat she got?"
You can hear Jasper, the little pseudodragon, scurrying about somewhere in the mansion, most likely chasing her "treat". Meanwhile, he gets up and helps Merkas start Barkly's coal bed with some wood from the fireplace.
Acrid smoke swils before Sera, and fills the air with a foul sulfuric stench. Quickly, the smoke takes on the silhouette of a large, clawed beast with a crown of horns and a missing fang. The smoke solidifies, and before you, heaving and scowling is a terrifying fiend. Buckeran blanches in fear at the sight of it!
It holds one clawed hand out before you.
"The first one is free. The third one is by me. My devotion is unknowable, But my results... unquestionable."
It holds a hand over its chest, and bows. Even bent in half, it towers over you.
"One task is all you may ask." Even its breath is like a blistery hot wind on your face. Telepathically, it reveals its capabilities to you while it awaits your command. Buckeran's eyes are practically bulging out of his head. Even Orr the Unsees seems shaken by the sight of this horrifying being!
Merkas, and only Merkas, starts hearing, "Myeah, see... never gonna catch me...Tryta' put a hit on me? Well I don't fall that easy, wise guy!"
“What are you talking about Barkly? I would never….”
You feel the weight of new jewelry around your neck, and look down to see a bronze pentacle with an etching of a rat's head in its center. "I'll be back, copper, with a pair of concrete shoes for ya's!"
The pendant appears and the voice continues “Oh, for crying out loud, another thing talking in my head, y’know, getting sick of things talking to me like this” Attempting to pull it off his neck he points it to Buckeran“What you think about this strange thing….”
Acrid smoke swils before Sera, and fills the air with a foul sulfuric stench. Quickly, the smoke takes on the silhouette of a large, clawed beast with a crown of horns and a missing fang. The smoke solidifies, and before you, heaving and scowling is a terrifying fiend. Buckeran blanches in fear at the sight of it!
Merkas voice trails off as the creature appears before he speaks up “Hey, Sera?! I thought you were worried about me having that efreet bottle, and here you have one of your own?”
Hastos returns downstairs in his tunic. “I seem to have left my bag!” He says. Hastos picks up the bag as Buckeran begins speaking. There’s a sharp tug on the bag as if someone dropped a stone in it. He opens the bag pulls it a large leather book of extraordinary craftsmanship. “What sort of magic..” his voice trails off. He thumbs through the pages, but doesn’t recognize the language, but one of the pictures shows a character wielding a blazing great axe!
”I don’t know what the language in this book is but recog-“
“Gizelcumab!” Sera says.
As the beast emerges from the smoke Hastos staggers backwards tripping over his own feet and falls into the floor, the book still in his hand. “I knew it!” He growls, cursing his decision to shed his armor and leave himself completely unarmed.
Sera drew the fang from the secret pocket beneath her armor and spoke the name inked along its curve. The air twisted. With a wet, sulfurous hiss — the stench of rotten eggs filling the room — a huge, mischievous daemon coalesced out of shadow and smoke. It looked mean and pleased with itself.
For a second she was stunned. The living armor under her robes thrummed, a warm, sly prompting at the edge of her thoughts — urging flirtation, teasing her to indulge the creature. She slapped at the urge as if it were a physical thing. No way. Not now.
The daemon’s grin was all teeth and smoke. It offered terms of service in a voice like gravel. Sera’s skin crawled, but she forced herself to think fast. This was not an efreet — Merkas’ warnings about fire-spirits did not apply — but daemons were vicious in their own clever, corrosive way.
She glanced at her friends. The armor’s quiet confidence made her words sound firmer than she felt. “It’s a daemon,” she said flatly. “Not an efreet. Both dangerous.” She met Hastos and Buckeran’s eyes. “I command it. Somehow. Don’t worry.” The “don’t worry” came out thin; she knew as well as anyone that a bound daemon was like a tamed bear — useful until it wasn’t.
She cleared her throat and thought through a task that might do more good than harm. “All right,” she told it, voice steadying. “Go out and find a Dragonarmy patrol. Scare them, make them think the land is cursed — beat them, shout nonsense about doom and orcs, and send them running back with their tails between their legs. Let them tell the tale.”
This, she hoped, would discourage raiders from harassing travelers and slow patrols from strangling arrivals. It was risky — summoning daemonish fear could also escalate things — but the settlement needed breathing room, and desperation sharpened her decisions.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
To post a comment, please login or register a new account.
Sera goes to her room in the Bastion...one she have not really decorated that much yet and sit on her simple bed. The tension over the revelations getting her some and she breathe fast and uneven...before calming down and gathers her belongings. The book from Duncan and prepare herself with the equipment she have. Stepping out she ask one of the new recruits to get ready to tag along and assist on this quest.
Then goes to the meeting point early and sit in the chill desert night waiting. Watching Krynns white moon rise and behind it follow the red moon. Silently praying to her god and trusting he watch over her....and hope he one day greet her when her time here is done.
As the people disperse Hastos returns and purchases the bow Cassie was offering him and quiver arrows, as well as a quiver of the healing arrows.. He then heads back up and gathers his things, making sure his packs have a set of rations in them. He then heads back downstairs and sees Sera waiting in the moonlight. He walks over but notices that she is deep in prayer and decides to keep a little distance until she’s done, trying not to create noise to disturb her. (Stealth: 10)
The air is still, and there’s a hint of moisture in the air – something that has has not become accustomed to yet. There is the distant murmur of voices broken occasionally by faint laughter. The smells of the day, of people and food, are melting away in the crisp night air.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Orr the Unseen slinks out of the shadows, carrying an Explorers Pack over their loosely draped robes. Their ornate tattoos seem to serve as a magic focus, and almost seem to shimmer alluringly in the moondlight.
"I have been summoned and am ready, Master Hastos." They address Hastos with a soft whisper, to preserve Sera's silent reverie. Orr's revealing... almost scandalous, clothing seems hardly appropriate for desert travel. But they seem unaffected by the chill night air as they gaze up into the moon. In fact, they almost seem to be bathing in it. Their eyes sparkle against the stars with curiousity and adoration at the naked sky, but they say no more.
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 stands unmoving as Orr emerges from the shadows.“That was quick.“ he says calmly. Hastos glances at Orr‘s attire, “Are you sure you have, uhh, everything you need?“ again, keeping his voice low so I has not disturb Seras prayers.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Sera heard Hastos sneaning like a descreet elephant. She smiled at his consideration and when Orr arrived she gave a smirk. " well you for sure catch the eye Orr. If you feel you are equipped properly...then all well. " biting her tounge as she still said things with double meanings. before she could think over it and blush she hands him the Javelin if lightning and wand of magic missiles. Giving short instructions on their use. Trying not stare to unpolite. She did enjoy Orrs appearances and now Hastos butt of attraction would get some competition. As to reflect her thoughts her armor slightly started reaveal her cleavage and skin. Getting daring sexy in its form on her. Sera pulled her robes tighter. Hiding it for now -trying to pimp me out armor? - she thought and shaked her head hoping Merkas or Buckeran would show up. Preferable Buckeran with dry facts good to kill any sensual mood. Else she was unsure what would happen.
“Yeah, Gramma is doing great, already taken a good step towards clearing her name with how she’s handling the food supplies and stuff” Merkas agrees as he helps Buckeran load things in Barkly “I hope there’s more than one adventure left, ‘cause that way you can tell me how you got that house to act like my bag of holding, or maybe the protections you have, those fancy golems and such”
After loading up the giant strider the two climb up and head towards the others. Not knowing there was any prayers or private conversation happening, Merkas has Barkly announce their arrival and desire to depart through a series of yips and barks.
“Hey! Everyone ready? Is Mr. Nare joining us?” Looking over Orr he says “Guess you’ll be needing the fires at night as much as Barkly” The Strider watches the mage like meat ready to cook, Merkas pets the side of he neck as he says to her “No, no, he’s a guild member, we’re gonna hunt for fresh meat for you and you get to cook it however you like“
Loyalty Begets Honour
"My needs are few..." Orr says, and pats a small bag on their back. They turn their head slowly to look, unblinking, at Hastos, and the starlight seems to still be caught in their eyes. "Sky, earth, and water. Food for nourishment. Friends to follow. A purpose to serve..."
"Thank you, Mistress Sera. You are, as well, as beautiful as any star..." Their voice remains soft, barely above a whisper when they speak, adding an odd gentleness to their manner, that nearly seems fey. When they receive the lightning spear and wand, they offer a liquid bow that bares an unexpected grace from an orc. "Generous gifts, Mistress. I will strive to be worthy of them."
"Well, you're in luck!" Buckeran says as he escorts you out towards the main part of his office and closes the door behind him. He pulls out a special, golden key and places it in the lock. When he turns it, the door disappears, leaving nothing but a wall with the same elaborate filigree on it as the rest of the room. He drops the key into his waistcoat pocket and winks at you. "Home sweet home!"
A small model of Buckeran's Palace of Wonders appears before his feet. He picks it up and sets it into his Handy Haversack. "It's coming with us! At my age, you learn to value comfort. For this adventure, we travel the rugged wastes... but we rest in style."
Barely containing a chuckle at his impressive keepsake, he finally composes himself and points towards Santekh's main gate. "To adventure!"
Orr the Unseen turns their body slowly as Merkas, Barkly, and Buckeran approach and gaze upon them with that same, unblinking stare, and bows... pointedly at Barkly, who surprisingly bows in return.
"Grey Starfire is a friend... not food. Blue Spark has many things that are not food," Merkas hears Barkly say. To the rest of you, it just seems like Barkly is making bird sounds. "Red Flame is here."
Barkly remains steadfastly beside Merkas, but keeps their posture watchful of Sera, like a guard dog.
Buckeran, too caught up in excitement to even try to understand the exchange, chimes in. "Orr the Unseen! Master of Ceremonies and special effects in the entertainment district. I must say, your light shows will become legendary in Santekh. Tell me... how fare things at the Grey Room? I haven't been in a few weeks."
Orr the Unseen turns their gaze to Buckeran. "Our dancers have noticed your absence, and your generosity. The Grey Room thrives, nevertheless. Perhaps they would welcome you back with a private show. Dana, the candlemaker, has sold us some candles that provide enchanting light for our show for the duration of my journey."
Buckeran blushes, clearly enjoying the prospect of a private show. But he digs in his Haversack and pulls out a map. "As you know, I'm no longer capabable of combat. Never was much of a fighter anyway. But I have a map, and many wondrous things in my pack! Including a Portable Hole!"
He pulls out a small, black silky handkercheif from his waistcoat, and unfolds it into a black circle about 10' wide and puts his hand through it, but it doesn't come out the other side. "It can't hold a limitless amount of treasure, but any findings can be stored in my palace without overtaxxing our bodies by carrying heavy loads. We simply fill it up, close it, bring it to my palace, and repeat the process until we've taking what we need. Brilliant, no?"
He neatly folds the portable hole, "I can't store it in the Haversack, or the palace... I think it might cause a nasty explosion. But it's safe enough right here!" He pats his waistcoat proudly. "With you four protecting me anyway." Barkly bawks. "My apologies, dear Barkly! Five!"
That said, he begins stretching his hamstrings, as if preparing for some kind of race. "Shall we?"
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 performs a final shifting of weight on the various items strapped to him. As things fall comfortably, he replies “Here we go then!”.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Sera nods. Glad to be traveling some again. The wilderness appealed to her right now. The stress and resurfacing of too many bad memories kinda faded in the great wilderness. " Let us go. Merkas you do peremiter scouting up ahead as we travel? You have a mount at least....and I am sure it is eagerly trying to hunt same time." Sera checked her gear one last time. She did not bring barrels for water this time but a few waterskins would be handy.
"Let us go"
Marching out through the gate, the new guard bids you a safe journey. Beyond the newly reinforced walls of Santekh, the wind blasts you with sand and a chill cuts into your bones, but you boldly march forward, southeast, away from the guiding ridge of the Khalkist Mountains...
While sporadic storm clouds flit by, they almost seem to flee the region. And those of you sensitive to magic can understand why. The magic in the air feels spoiled... almost toxic as you make your way through the wastelands. Ancient ruins and war machines are partially buried under deep dunes of troubled sand. Violent death plagues this land. How the Hachakee still manage to thrive in this region is a true testament to their hardy and determined spirit. You pass by the Hachakee territory... a distant spark of a campfire to your right, near the mountain range that they use as a natural wind barrier.
Buckeran puts on some goggles to guard his eyes from the sand-filled wind and studies his map. He points in the direction you're already marching, but in the wind, his voice is barely perceivable. After coughing out a mouthful of sand, he adds a bandana to cover his mouth and nose. Fully bundled, except for his bald pate, he looks like a ruddy dot bobbing up and down on Barkly's back. Barkly seems to be glowing as well, using her own inner fire to combat the cold, but appears to be otherwise unbothered by the wind and sand. Buckeran and Merkas can feel the warmth emanating from her body... a skill she can only use for so long until she needs more fuel.
Most of the trip is quiet. With the windstorm, predators have chosen to bunker down and wait it out before continuing their nightly hunt. And with the Hachakee still performing their patrols, Dragon Army threats are minimal at this distance from the fortress. But progress is still slow. The sand shifts beneath your feet, and the air cuts through your clothes straight to the bone like icy daggers. Buckeran calls for a break after you've marched halfway through the night.
He pulls out a tiny model of his Palace of Wonders, and sets it on a rock, shielding it from the storm with his cloak, and shouts something that sounds like "Moany Bones!" The model expands into a full sized palace and he invites everyone to come inside. Once in, he dusts himself off... caked in layers of desert sand, he almost looks like a moving statue of himself. "Brrrr! Brisk night for a walk, eh?" He says in unexpectedly good spirit. "The storm is an unpleasant and unexpected twist, but I believe they'll only get worse as we get to the dragon's lair, as the cursed magic becomes more chaotic."
He sets a fire and lays out a pallete of coals next to it for Barkly to build a nest out of. "Barkly's heat was diminishing, which I took as my queue to break camp. At least until she restores her energy. The larder has food... hanging meats, vegetables, herbs and spices... anything you need to make a fantastic meal! And there are private rooms if you wish to take a nap. Water has a tendency to slosh while I'm travelling with it, so I'm afraid I don't have much to spare... but I have a few barrels down there requisitioned for this mission. If you're conservative with it, we'll have enough to bathe in for a few days, if you don't mind sharing. The baths can be heated and seat up to four. *hack* But first, let's slake our thirst..." He says, choking on some dust.
He pulls an Alchemy Jug from his Haversack and summons some wine. Then pulls some wooden goblets from an ornate hutch. "Glass doesn't hold up well in an Instant Fortress, but these goblets are quite lovely and will do the trick, I think!" He sets them on a tray and fills them. Then he sets the tray down on a table made of petrified wood. The chairs and sofas surrounding it are plush and comfortable, and Merkas and Hastos have taken their fair share of naps on them while under house arrest. The art and tapestries, nailed to the wall for reasons you now fully understand, add a classy and luxurious ambience to the place.
Barkly enters the room nervously... observing just how much of the place is made of wood. Merkas can tell that she's freezing and would very much like to curl up on those coals.
Orr the Unseen takes the place in, having never been here before. Their eyes scan the room quietly. Accustomed to wealthy nobles hiring them for private services, Orr is no stranger to luxury. But the sheer vastness of this place impresses them. Most Instant Fortresses, even though they are fairly rare, are just that. Defensible, but practical walls of stone with minimal decoration and furnishing, if any. Buckeran must've acquired this from a powerful and ancient wizard somehow, who probably spent a lifetime modifying the enchantments that converted a powerful enchantment into a luxury travel mansion.
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
The travel mansion was not what she expected. A part of her hoped for fresh air and wilderness. Now they did not even need a gusrd to keep watch.
" Buckeran this is magnificent....and we can even take a bath later? How wonderful. I can add in some water if needed..." she give Hastos a sly wink. " We better get some rest...everything so grand hete . How big are the beds I wonder.. "
As it’s clear they’ll be spending some time here, Hastos begins to examine the entryway and front of the house for its defensive capabilities. “This is really impressive, Buckeran. Will this door hold up to someone trying to get in?” He asks inquisitively.
Hastos glances at Sera, her comment taking him off guard… again. In an instant his expression rapidly shifts from surprise, to bashful, to a slightly nervous glance at her new armor.
”It, uh, looks rugged enough.” He continues as he regains his composure. “Sera… is… right. We should take advantage of rest where we can.”
Hastos takes a sip of the wine. The wind outside whips around the house, He can hear distant parts of the palace creak ever so slightly. It not entirely unlike the distant sound of tree limbs creaking in the eve of a storm. The sound begins to relax him and he covers a yawn.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Merkas helps Barkly settle into the coals, as well as pulling a few jars from his bag that are radiating heat, “Saved these for when you need a goid healing but for now they can keep you warm, speaking of, Hey Bucky is it ok for me to put a magic bonfire under Bucky for a bit?”
Hastos question about the defences perk his ears and he calls back, “If the door doesn’t then there’s some golem guys that will stop whoever it is.”
Loyalty Begets Honour
“Oh, well, I guess Buckerons got that covered then.” After a pause he continues “I think I’m going to take this opportunity to shed this armor and actually relax for a change. Not too many places where one can feel truly safe.”
Hastos heads up to one of the rooms. The accommodations were far more than he required. He cold hear the wind more acutely here, but the thickness of the walls made it sound distant and unthreatening. He slipped off the armor, a slight groan when getting the pauldrons off. The wound from the tunnels still aching.
He piled the pieces neatly against the wall and propped his sword, axe, and shield in a row making it easy to get to - just in case. He spent such little time out of them he felt genuinely vulnerable.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
"Quite large! er... for me anyway. I suppose a human and an elf might need to snuggle up a bit," he says with an endearing chuckle. "I thought perhaps a short rest would be nice, to at least see if the storn dies down. If not, we can make the choice to power through or wait it out."
Pressing forward through the storm will require a CON Save.
"Most Instant Fortresses are practically impenetrable, but this particualar model has been heavily modified for comfort and ambiance..." He spreads his arms wide and raises his long, bushy eyebrows, as if to say the risks pay for themselves in luxury. "Besides, anthing powerful enough to condone this storm, won't be concerned about our front door. And we will have much bigger concerns from its maw!"
Buckeran grimaces. 😬An apolagetic baring of teeth, more than anything... "Unfortunately, those are assigned to guard the treasures that are being safeguarded at HQ. So, they're still back in Santekh, along with any magic items I didn't requisition for this mission. My only real defenses here..." He uses what fingers and thumbs he has left to make "finger guns" and waves them at you, "are you. And of cou- OH! What now?"
He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a candied treat. "Is it that time already? How delightful! You know, there's a myth that adventurers get special treats. It's true! In my days as a bandit, I got all sorts of... haunted coins, broken scrying mirrors, combs that changed your hair color! Nowadays... it's mostly chocolate, or sour candies."
A pocket forms in Sera's armor, holding a a strange, scrimshawed tooth with the phrase "Gizelcumab" written on it. The tooth itself is long enough to be converted into a dagger, and at first you think its a horn. Whatever this mouth came from must be quite large. DC 10 (Arcana, History, Religion) with Advantage to discover more. Remove Advantage if you don't want Beuckeran to know about the tooth.
Merkas, and only Merkas, starts hearing, "Myeah, see... never gonna catch me...Tryta' put a hit on me? Well I don't fall that easy, wise guy!" You feel the weight of new jewelry around your neck, and look down to see a bronze pentacle with an etching of a rat's head in its center. "I'll be back, copper, with a pair of concrete shoes for ya's!"
Hastas feels his pack getting heavier and pulls out a thick, embroidered, leather-bound tome written in ancient Draconic. The artwork is exquisite, and based on the images, details the story of a legendary hero baring a familiar weapon.
Buckeran eats his candy, and makes a very unpleasant face, but laughs all the same. "Oh that is awful! It appears tonight I was cursed! Hahaha! A little wine will wash that down though." He takes several large gulps of the sweet wine and swirls it around his mouth before swallowing. "And where, pray tell, is Jasper? I imagine she made her petition as well. I wonder what kind of treat she got?"
You can hear Jasper, the little pseudodragon, scurrying about somewhere in the mansion, most likely chasing her "treat". Meanwhile, he gets up and helps Merkas start Barkly's coal bed with some wood from the fireplace.
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
Sera pulls out tge big tooth...holds it and reads "Gizelcumab"...this seems familiar. She inhale deeply...
( 17 on religion with advantage)
Acrid smoke swils before Sera, and fills the air with a foul sulfuric stench. Quickly, the smoke takes on the silhouette of a large, clawed beast with a crown of horns and a missing fang. The smoke solidifies, and before you, heaving and scowling is a terrifying fiend. Buckeran blanches in fear at the sight of it!
It holds one clawed hand out before you.
"The first one is free.
The third one is by me.
My devotion is unknowable,
But my results... unquestionable."
It holds a hand over its chest, and bows. Even bent in half, it towers over you.
"One task is all you may ask." Even its breath is like a blistery hot wind on your face. Telepathically, it reveals its capabilities to you while it awaits your command. Buckeran's eyes are practically bulging out of his head. Even Orr the Unsees seems shaken by the sight of this horrifying being!
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
“What are you talking about Barkly? I would never….”
The pendant appears and the voice continues “Oh, for crying out loud, another thing talking in my head, y’know, getting sick of things talking to me like this” Attempting to pull it off his neck he points it to Buckeran “What you think about this strange thing….”
Merkas voice trails off as the creature appears before he speaks up “Hey, Sera?! I thought you were worried about me having that efreet bottle, and here you have one of your own?”
Loyalty Begets Honour
Hastos returns downstairs in his tunic. “I seem to have left my bag!” He says. Hastos picks up the bag as Buckeran begins speaking. There’s a sharp tug on the bag as if someone dropped a stone in it. He opens the bag pulls it a large leather book of extraordinary craftsmanship. “What sort of magic..” his voice trails off. He thumbs through the pages, but doesn’t recognize the language, but one of the pictures shows a character wielding a blazing great axe!
”I don’t know what the language in this book is but recog-“
“Gizelcumab!” Sera says.
As the beast emerges from the smoke Hastos staggers backwards tripping over his own feet and falls into the floor, the book still in his hand. “I knew it!” He growls, cursing his decision to shed his armor and leave himself completely unarmed.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Sera drew the fang from the secret pocket beneath her armor and spoke the name inked along its curve. The air twisted. With a wet, sulfurous hiss — the stench of rotten eggs filling the room — a huge, mischievous daemon coalesced out of shadow and smoke. It looked mean and pleased with itself.
For a second she was stunned. The living armor under her robes thrummed, a warm, sly prompting at the edge of her thoughts — urging flirtation, teasing her to indulge the creature. She slapped at the urge as if it were a physical thing. No way. Not now.
The daemon’s grin was all teeth and smoke. It offered terms of service in a voice like gravel. Sera’s skin crawled, but she forced herself to think fast. This was not an efreet — Merkas’ warnings about fire-spirits did not apply — but daemons were vicious in their own clever, corrosive way.
She glanced at her friends. The armor’s quiet confidence made her words sound firmer than she felt. “It’s a daemon,” she said flatly. “Not an efreet. Both dangerous.” She met Hastos and Buckeran’s eyes. “I command it. Somehow. Don’t worry.” The “don’t worry” came out thin; she knew as well as anyone that a bound daemon was like a tamed bear — useful until it wasn’t.
She cleared her throat and thought through a task that might do more good than harm. “All right,” she told it, voice steadying. “Go out and find a Dragonarmy patrol. Scare them, make them think the land is cursed — beat them, shout nonsense about doom and orcs, and send them running back with their tails between their legs. Let them tell the tale.”
This, she hoped, would discourage raiders from harassing travelers and slow patrols from strangling arrivals. It was risky — summoning daemonish fear could also escalate things — but the settlement needed breathing room, and desperation sharpened her decisions.