Kaylan nods. "Actually, my shift change is coming. Let me guide you directly to Rhyana. She is the town's Assayer, and will handle the prioritization and distribution of the supplies. From there, I can just head home. I'm pretty tired myself and could use some rest."
Duncan arrives in his armor, with spear in hand to see what the commotion is. His grimy face brightens up when he sees you have arrived with all the supplies. "It's a miracle. I never would've dreamed you'd be able to come back with all the crates!" He says, laughing merrily. "You've done Santekh proud!"
He offers to take over the watch while Kaylan gets into position to escort you to the back of Santekh. "We're going to the agricultural district. Rhyanna and the Hachakee have been working on ways to harvest moisture from the air to irrigate the crops. She'll be thrilled to see that you've returned with the tools to make that happen. They've been roughshodding tools to rig a makeshift solution, but it hasn't produced much more than a few scraggly plants. Most of what we've been able to grow has gone straight to feeding horses and cattle. Please, follow me!"
The joy of being able to grow vegetables and food again is immense. Sera shares in the townsfolk’s happiness—it’s a sign of hope, of life returning. But as they begin making their way toward Councilwoman Verhenna’s house, her mind drifts with uncertainty.
Should she stay and help tend the fields, join in growing food for the people?
Should she raise a proper shrine to Paladine, to remind the people of the light that watches over them?
Should she focus on the town’s defenses, prepare for the darkness that still looms on the horizon?
Or... should she take up the mantle of a wandering hero once more?
Bucceran, the ever-watchful librarian, seemed to have ideas—rumors of things only heroes could face. Dangers only the brave dared touch. Sera wasn’t sure what path she would take yet.
Hastos breathed easier as the townsfolk cheered. He knew it wouldnt last, but for now he'd take the win.
His smile was forced. Mass fervor always made him nervous. Too many years of seeing it turned and used as a weapon. A slight twist in the story and they'd be pulled to pieces. It was a force of nature not to be taken lightly.
He turns to Merkas. "I have no business with Verhanna, I'll stay with the carts as well if the group needs to split up."
Kaylan guides you down the main street. You pass by the merchant district, with Kasi's shop, Dana's Dancing Lights, and Witchdoctor Duncan's Apothecary, then on to the tent community, which is greatly diminished. Many of the temporary residents have been housed, and the tent community is about half the size of what it was when you first arrived. In the newly available space, a well is being dug out. The construction is new, and not very deep, but the fervor with which people are working on the construction, you'd think they landed on a platinum mine. Past the well, to your right, is The Laughing Dwarf Dance Hall... then to your left, the graveyard and holy grounds. It's mostly rubble and dry weeds. The last druid who was trying to restore it appears to have abandoned the mission, so it's been forgotten in place of prioritizing housing. Beyond that, you make it to the headquarters and administration district, with Buckeron's, Verhanna's, Zahir's, and Ryanna's offices are. A new office is being finalized for Tekel's mercenary group, complete with a sign that reads Tianaran's Revenge, complete with a symbol of a silver dragon on the sign.
She guides you past the adminstration district to the "farm lands". It's more of a dusty flatlands with ragged sprouts of weeds and scrawny cattle and pigs to weak and tired to do much more than laze under the last few cool moments of the day. To the left, there are empty barrels loaded with tools, scrap wood, seeds. Next to it, there are pots of hearty desert plants ready to be planted. Rhyana is trying to organize the Hachakee to rotate soil and enrich it with fresh soil produced by a combination of compost, soil Duncan's personal garden, and clay-rich dirt that they're trying to break up to make usable. It's a sorry sight. When Rhyanna notices you arrive with the carts, she tenses breifly, then hurries up towards you.
"Dawnbound, I presume? You returned more quickly than expected, and still I wish you could've come quicker." She sighs with relief at your arrival and puts her hands on her hips. She's an elf, with dark skin, made darker by the sun, and she's clad in a white kaftan and head wrap. Her arms, neck, nose, fingers, and ears are dripping with ceremonial jewelry, and you notice she has a ring very similar to Verhanna's. Her eyes are soft but penetrating, and belies extraordinary intelligence. Her tone is soft and disarming though, and it's easy to see why she has a reputation for being the most popular of the council members. A representative of the people, she's often seen carousing with them in the cool of the evening, and is most likely to host meetings and allow the people to voice their complaints. But the stress is taking its toll on her. The only part of her that isn't completely pristine are her nails, which are worn to nubs, stained with dirt and gnarled from stress-chewing.
She goes to the supplies and sifts through one of the boxes before pulling out a scroll. She rolls it out and matches the crates with what seems to be her list. "All twelve accounted for!" she says with more than a little surprise in her voice. "Well done. You must be exhausted from your travels. You may leave the cart and horses here. I'll see to it that the horses are fed and watered before being returned to Glynnis. We have to survey and distribute these supplies immediately." She clears her throat and stands up straight. "Dawnbound. You have completed your task to our satisfaction! You are releived of the gaes upon you and are free to pursue your own interests in or out of Santekh." As her words are spoken, you feel a tingling sensation, and suddenly that nagging sensation in the back of your mind is gone. "Please go see Verhanna at your leisure to receive your pay. She'll be in her office until sundown, and I'm sure will be pleased to see you!"
Her smile is warm, as she waves for the Hachakee to come and unload the top row of crates for inspection. Six members of the tribe come forward and nod at you, a simple greeting and salute. "Sharn, you've represented us well. You will be honored tonight with drink and ceremony if you'll join us in the wilderness at sundown," one of the Hachakee says in a thick accent more accustomed to speaking their native tongue.
“If it’s all the same to you, Ma’am, I thank you for releasing the spell, but I will not be leaving this shipment until it is distributed to those that need it. I may be a little worried as our first night here we were attacked and these crates have already been misplaced, by will or misdeed, once and I really don’t want it to happen again”Merkas says this from atop Barkly all the while watching her reactions. (Nat 20 insight check 20 total on Rhyana, her reaction at seeing us, the surprise at it being returned, and how she responds as he says) “Kasi was instrumental in retrieving the crates, as much as any of us. Please be sure she gets a fair portion of the supplies.”
Sharn smiled kindly and nodded, his hand rising to brush his mustache. "I appreciate the praise, but it wasn't only me. Kasi represented the Hachakee alongside me. Dare I say, she reminded me of my new home with you when times were darkest. I think the stars would shine brighter tonight if all of Dawnbound were there together at sundown." Sharn chuckled at Merkas' retort. "Merkas may seem small, Rhyanna, but his heart and soul are mighty." Sharn winked at both, but moreso Merkas, like a grandfather or uncle would. "I think it would be good if he assisted."
Sera felt a wave of relief as the geas lifted from her—subtle, but noticeable. Her thoughts cleared, and the pressure that had weighed on her heart eased. Still, she made a quiet note to herself: Think twice before accepting a mission under a geas again.
“Well, I’m glad it’s over,” she said, offering a tired but genuine smile. “I hope you get the supplies distributed fast.” She didn’t voice her concern aloud, but the thought lingered—what if someone tried to sabotage it?
Turning her attention to the tired horses, she nodded. “I’ll take care of the horses. A day—or a mission—isn’t over until the steeds are tended to.”
For a moment, she considered calling rain to help the new crops, but stopped herself. Let them manage the water supply properly. They had to learn to stand on their own.
“I’m heading to Glynnis’s,” she added, tugging gently at the reins. “See you all tomorrow.”
She offered a wave to her companions, uncertain what their plans were for the evening—but for her, it was time to rest.
Hastos wondered if the others felt any different as the charm was lifted. He replied to Rhyanna, “Thank you, but I am owed no recompense as I did not agree to the …” he struggled not to say ‘enslavement’ “… restriction.” Turning to Merkas, “Do you need accompaniment?” He asked.
"Sure Haz, any extra eyes are a good thing" Leaning over in his saddle to talk the elf privately"Though, it may be best you stay back from them, so that they don't try to blame you for anything missing as you didn't get the spell on you"
“If it’s all the same to you, Ma’am, I thank you for releasing the spell, but I will not be leaving this shipment until it is distributed to those that need it. I may be a little worried as our first night here we were attacked and these crates have already been misplaced, by will or misdeed, once and I really don’t want it to happen again”Merkas says this from atop Barkly all the while watching her reactions. (Nat 20 insight check 20 total on Rhyana, her reaction at seeing us, the surprise at it being returned, and how she responds as he says) “Kasi was instrumental in retrieving the crates, as much as any of us. Please be sure she gets a fair portion of the supplies.”
Ryhanna nods. "Admirable of you to stand watch. Twelve crates could take days to distribute, though. Everything must be logged and inventoried, then the council must be addressed to determine the urgency of each need. I intend to distribute some emergency supplies of food, water, and medicine immediately after inventory, but that could still be several hours. Then, in the morning, I wish to hold a town meeting to hear the residents' concerns. While I try to keep abreast of the needs of our people, I'd like an updated status, so I can know which resources are needed most. Then, I will convene with the council to present the report for approval."
She glances at Kasi, who stands proudly beside the cart, with her fire-newt helmet on, granting shade from the sun. A warm smile crosses Rhyanna's face. "Excellent work, Kasi! I'll admit, the town was nervous about abiding a kobold in our walls, but you've proven yourself exceptional. I'm sure this will bode well for your reputation amongst the people." Her smile remains gentle as she resumes addressing Merkas. "And of course, her portion will be fair. You have my word."
Sharn smiled kindly and nodded, his hand rising to brush his mustache. "I appreciate the praise, but it wasn't only me. Kasi represented the Hachakee alongside me. Dare I say, she reminded me of my new home with you when times were darkest. I think the stars would shine brighter tonight if all of Dawnbound were there together at sundown." Sharn chuckled at Merkas' retort. "Merkas may seem small, Rhyanna, but his heart and soul are mighty." Sharn winked at both, but moreso Merkas, like a grandfather or uncle would. "I think it would be good if he assisted."
The Hachakee members look to each other nervously. "Hachakee ceremony belongs to Hachakee alone." A large man covered in dirt claps you on the shoulder in a show of affection and respect. "Be with your guild tonight. We will perform the ceremony another time."
cheapjoke123, currently, you are an honorary member of the Hachakee. But you're still on the outer circle. You can travel with them, live amongst them, and even share in their resources. They can even send you on quests and raids against the Dragon Army. But they're basically inviting you into the inner circle now. You wouldn't expect to become a decision-maker amongst the community, but you'd become a respected and trusted part of the tribe, which gives you access to secret knowledge, and influence within the clan, which is autonamous from Santekh. It's not necessary for the story arc, but this is an addition to your story arc, based on your backstory.
Sera felt a wave of relief as the geas lifted from her—subtle, but noticeable. Her thoughts cleared, and the pressure that had weighed on her heart eased. Still, she made a quiet note to herself: Think twice before accepting a mission under a geas again.
“Well, I’m glad it’s over,” she said, offering a tired but genuine smile. “I hope you get the supplies distributed fast.” She didn’t voice her concern aloud, but the thought lingered—what if someone tried to sabotage it?
Turning her attention to the tired horses, she nodded. “I’ll take care of the horses. A day—or a mission—isn’t over until the steeds are tended to.”
Rhyanna laughs merrily. "You do us a service, then! I was going to have them fed, watered, and groomed before returning them, but you've saved me time." She bows at you politely as you leave. Your trail leads back through headquarters, which seems to be bustling with activity. Tekel's soldiers are holding the people back who are crowding around them to get at the supplies. "You'll get what's yours!" You hear one of the guards shouting as he pushes the crowd back. Verhanna and Buckeran step out of their offices and hold their hands up to quiet the crowd and deliver a speech, which presumably will placate the crowds.
Further along, you make it past the holy grounds, and notice a small group of people wandering through it. They disappear behind a mauseleum.
Then, you make it to the Laughing Dwarf. Ahead of you, to the right, the tent community is even thinner than before, since many of them have moved to the Headquarter's District. But the ones who remain are working with extra fervor. The promise of food, water, and supplies have them putting their backs into every effort. They don't stop to cheer you anymore, but they do smile and salute as you pass by on your tired steed. You head around back to Glynnis's private stables and begin the work of stripping off their buckles, hitch gear, and saddles. Glynnis hears the horses and happily comes out to check on them, smiling when she sees you. "Sera!" She bellows! "Rumor has it, ye done good, lass!" There's laughter in her voice as she claps you on the back with surprising force that nearly knocks the wind out of you. "Hero's o' the day, is what thar sayin'! How'd me old friends treat ye?" She looks at the horses and their singed tails. Her lips purse, as she tries not to criticize. It was a dangerous mission, after all. She reminds herself to be grateful both horses made it back at all.
Hastos eyes those in the vicinity and shrugs. “If you think that’s best.” He agrees and steps back to give the crews room to process the crates.
Rhyanna shrugs, and the Hachakee continue their work, grunting and sweating under the rising sun to finish unloading the top row of crates. Once the first six are down, they begin popping lids and sorting through the items. Once an inventory item is confirmed, Rhyanna checks it off a list and gives orders in Hachakee for where each crate should be placed. The process is tedious, but they seem to be moving efficiently. Rhyanna keeps glancing over her shoulder at the growing mob by the Headquarters District. You can tell she feels the peoples' urgency in the matter, and chews on the stubs of her nails as the Hachakee finish moving one crate and opens another.
Hastos scans the crowd intensly as the unrest increases. As Verhanna tries the calm the crowd, he sees Buckeran and others.
”Ohhh fuuuck.” Hastos says. Not loudly, but where Sharn and Merkas can hear. Hastos urgently waves Merkas and Sharn over for a private conversation.
“Don’t be obvious, but looks like Tekel got his hands on that damned scythe.” Hastos says in a low voice. “… and looks like someone roughed up Buckeran. His arm is in a sling.”
“What!?” Merkas stands in the saddle on Barkly looking over the crowd at Tekel and Bucheran “He better have fallen of a ladder or something, if that mad mercenary did that to Bucky Barkly may have a good meal in the near future”
Merkas guides Barkly near to the entrance of the staging area. Holding her in a state of readiness. Non-threatening but imposing. (9-animal handling, guess the commotion is rough on Barkly)
Sera offered Glynnis a tired but amused smile. “You have no idea how close those kids came to becoming Strider food… Merkas actually tamed the beast. But that’s a long story—I’ll tell you everything after about three days of sleep, okay?” She winked, brushing a bit of dust from her shoulder.
She finished tending to the horses, gently patting their flanks. “You sweet things deserve rest as much as we do,” she murmured, grateful for their endurance.
The chaos around the crates was still echoing in her mind. “Such a fuss… but oh well,” she sighed with a shrug.
With a few quiet parting words to Glynnis, Sera headed for her chambers. She slipped out of her armor piece by piece, letting the weariness settle in her bones. Finally, she dove into bed, tucking her sword hilt close as if it were a stuffed animal from childhood.
Hastos scans the crowd intensly as the unrest increases. As Verhanna tries the calm the crowd, he sees Buckeran and others.
”Ohhh fuuuck.” Hastos says. Not loudly, but where Sharn and Merkas can hear. Hastos urgently waves Merkas and Sharn over for a private conversation.
“Don’t be obvious, but looks like Tekel got his hands on that damned scythe.” Hastos says in a low voice. “… and looks like someone roughed up Buckeran. His arm is in a sling.”
Sharn barely kept himself from gasping, then he whispered. "We might need to knock him out ... Wait, he's not in a rampage. Maybe he'll surrender it. I warned everyone that the thing was cursed. Let's see how Buckeran is and go from there."
Hastos turned to Sharn “Agreed. Get the story first. Perhaps Tekel is able to resist the scythe as we were able to. But I can’t believe that Buckeran just gave it to him.”
“What!?” Merkas stands in the saddle on Barkly looking over the crowd at Tekel and Bucheran “He better have fallen of a ladder or something, if that mad mercenary did that to Bucky Barkly may have a good meal in the near future”
Merkas guides Barkly near to the entrance of the staging area. Holding her in a state of readiness. Non-threatening but imposing. (9-animal handling, guess the commotion is rough on Barkly)
Barkly accepts Merkas's lead, but stops away from the crowds. It wouldn't matter anyway, because the crowds definitely make room for Barkly. She's an imposing figure. You make it about halfway between the agricultural district and Headquarters. Enough to hear the complaints of the crowd, and make out some of what Verhanna's is saying. She's granting assurances that the supplies will be distributed as quickly as possible and that everyone will be given what they need. They just need to hold out a little longer and remember why Santekh was formed, and how infighting and rioting will undo that work. She's handling the crowd ok. But she's known for being fact-based and insensitive to people's feelings. So Buckeran steps in and makes a more emotional appeal. Bucky is more highly favored amongst the community, but tends to be a bit of a recluse, even moreso than Piruz. So while his charm may be fetching, the influence of his words don't spark as much hope as needed to quell the crowds. Tekel stands beside him with his hands balled into fists on his hips, his mysteriously acquired scythe gleaming in the sunlight, strapped to his back. Everything about him shines. It's like he's never gotten a speck of dirt on his armor in his life, the way he keeps it polished. His fluffy blonde hair dances in a gentle breeze, and his silvery eyes pierce the crowd with intimidating authority, despite being only slightly taller than Buckeran. He knows how to use his space well. He waves a signal at his soldiers, and they push back the crowd in a single rush with their shields. The crowd gives way angrily, but the crowd is now out of range to rush the two councilors.
Sera offered Glynnis a tired but amused smile. “You have no idea how close those kids came to becoming Strider food… Merkas actually tamed the beast. But that’s a long story—I’ll tell you everything after about three days of sleep, okay?” She winked, brushing a bit of dust from her shoulder.
She finished tending to the horses, gently patting their flanks. “You sweet things deserve rest as much as we do,” she murmured, grateful for their endurance.
Glynnis nods. "Yer room's all ready. I'll clean up here, then head back in t' work. Thar's ta be a celebratotion in yer honor at dusk, an' we're tha hosts! I 'spect a packed house, so yer gonna need yer rest fer all tha drinks tha town'll be buyin' ye." She replies merrily.
The chaos around the crates was still echoing in her mind. “Such a fuss… but oh well,” she sighed with a shrug.
With a few quiet parting words to Glynnis, Sera headed for her chambers. She slipped out of her armor piece by piece, letting the weariness settle in her bones. Finally, she dove into bed, tucking her sword hilt close as if it were a stuffed animal from childhood.
Sleep claimed her quickly.
"Aye," Glynnis grunts. "Desperation be a dangerous thing. But they'll cool off once the supplies're distributed."
Hastos turned to Sharn “Agreed. Get the story first. Perhaps Tekel is able to resist the scythe as we were able to. But I can’t believe that Buckeran just gave it to him.”
You approach the Headquartes and make your way to Buckeran's side. He notices you and smiles. When you fully see his face, you notice there's a bump on his head, a bruised eye, and a swollen lip that mostly healed. "And behold! Dawnbound is here-- the Heroes of the Day!" Tekel's expression changes to irritance at losing some spotlight time from Dawnbound. He scoffs and crosses his arms, staring Sharn and Hastos down with those peircing silver eyes of his.
"Please," Buckeran encourages, "Share with Santekh your glorious tale of victory! I'm sure we all want to know how Dawnbound returned with all twelve crates and... a GIANT STRIDER? Amazing creature! I've never seen one in real life before!" Buckeran blinks his eyes several times, then rubs the unbruised one to check his vision. "How in the world did you tame such a magnificent creature?!"
Properly distracted, some of the crowd gasps at the sight of Merkas's mount corraling their children and loved ones together for protection, while others lock their eyes on Hastos and Sharn like children gathered round for storytime.
Staring at Tekel while listening to Verhana and Bucky’s pleas to the crowd, Merkas attempts to memorize every detail of the “guard”. Nearly forcing Barkly forward when the shield wall pushes forward, the kender stops when Dawnbound is mentioned. He smiles brightly as people turn to look at him and Barkly, talking calmly and consoling the crowd as they start to show fear. “This is Barkly, she was wounded and hungry out in the wilds. She was scared and driven nearly mad by hunger and pain. Sera helped heal her and we fed her some of our rations so she would calm down. Now she’s really a hood friend of mine. Just treat her like a horse, don’t sneak up on her and try not to walk behind her” (12 - Persuasion to calm the crowd in regards to Barkly)
After the short assurance, to show there is no danger, Merkas has Barkly sit as she would to allow in to mount.
”We are still on duty though, so the full story will have to wait. Just want to be sure all the supplies came back so the Ladies Verhana and Ryhana have accurate numbers and can give everyone what they are promised. Wouldn’t want to be the person that didn’t get anything just because the count was wrong right?”
Sera’s wishful thinking about finally getting some rest vanished quickly. The noise outside sounded like a riot brewing. She groaned and sat up, muttering, “Is Merkas’ Strider eating someone?”
With a heavy sigh, she got into her gear, cinching her armor with practiced motions before heading out toward the noise. The commotion only grew louder as she approached—shouts, demands, the unmistakable clamor of a desperate crowd. It didn’t take long to spot Verhenna and Bucceran doing their best to calm people down, but clearly with little success.
Then she heard it over the din: “Dawnbound… Giant Strider…” followed by cheers and laughter. Of course. Merkas had brought out his Strider and was already putting on a show, displaying his riding skills like a true kender showman.
Sera stopped at the edge of the crowd, arms crossed, letting him soak up the spotlight for now. If it distracted the mob and calmed them down, fine by her. Her eyes flicked over to Terkel Paladine—furious, ignored, and clearly seething at losing the crowd’s attention.
Staring at Tekel while listening to Verhana and Bucky’s pleas to the crowd, Merkas attempts to memorize every detail of the “guard”. Nearly forcing Barkly forward when the shield wall pushes forward, the kender stops when Dawnbound is mentioned. He smiles brightly as people turn to look at him and Barkly, talking calmly and consoling the crowd as they start to show fear. “This is Barkly, she was wounded and hungry out in the wilds. She was scared and driven nearly mad by hunger and pain. Sera helped heal her and we fed her some of our rations so she would calm down. Now she’s really a hood friend of mine. Just treat her like a horse, don’t sneak up on her and try not to walk behind her” (12 - Persuasion to calm the crowd in regards to Barkly)
After the short assurance, to show there is no danger, Merkas has Barkly sit as she would to allow in to mount.
”We are still on duty though, so the full story will have to wait. Just want to be sure all the supplies came back so the Ladies Verhana and Ryhana have accurate numbers and can give everyone what they are promised. Wouldn’t want to be the person that didn’t get anything just because the count was wrong right?”
Amazed by the little kender and his big mount, and excited by the story of your kindness to a wild animal, the crowd murmers curiously. You hear a few threatening comments pop up from the crowd. "That things a dragon! Get it out of here!" are some of the more common concerns that are mentioned. But others seem doubtful. Although a Giant Strider kind of looks like a dragon, and breathes fire, it is not dragonkin in any way. Still, those who choose to remain ignorant may be a threat to your mount if you don't protect her well.
Sera’s wishful thinking about finally getting some rest vanished quickly. The noise outside sounded like a riot brewing. She groaned and sat up, muttering, “Is Merkas’ Strider eating someone?”
With a heavy sigh, she got into her gear, cinching her armor with practiced motions before heading out toward the noise. The commotion only grew louder as she approached—shouts, demands, the unmistakable clamor of a desperate crowd. It didn’t take long to spot Verhenna and Bucceran doing their best to calm people down, but clearly with little success.
Then she heard it over the din: “Dawnbound… Giant Strider…” followed by cheers and laughter. Of course. Merkas had brought out his Strider and was already putting on a show, displaying his riding skills like a true kender showman.
Sera stopped at the edge of the crowd, arms crossed, letting him soak up the spotlight for now. If it distracted the mob and calmed them down, fine by her. Her eyes flicked over to Terkel Paladine—furious, ignored, and clearly seething at losing the crowd’s attention.
Sera smirked. Good.
Tekel's eyes fall on Sera... that piercing silvery gaze, but then his expression twists into a practiced smile. It's not genuine, but it does look pleasant. "Sera the Healer! Champion of Dawnbound," he calls out loudly enough to fully silence the crowd, who turn to you with curiosity. "It appears your bold leadership has won the day! Tell me. How many of those scaly wretches did you slay? Were you able to rid our town of neighboring vermin, or did you leave a little fun for my boys? Once the supplies are sorted, my troop would be all too delighted to route the smelly things." He glances over at Kasi, still hanging back, further back than Merkas. "Once and for all!"
He holds a gauntleted fist high in the air, and the crowd cheers.
Kaylan nods. "Actually, my shift change is coming. Let me guide you directly to Rhyana. She is the town's Assayer, and will handle the prioritization and distribution of the supplies. From there, I can just head home. I'm pretty tired myself and could use some rest."
Duncan arrives in his armor, with spear in hand to see what the commotion is. His grimy face brightens up when he sees you have arrived with all the supplies. "It's a miracle. I never would've dreamed you'd be able to come back with all the crates!" He says, laughing merrily. "You've done Santekh proud!"
He offers to take over the watch while Kaylan gets into position to escort you to the back of Santekh. "We're going to the agricultural district. Rhyanna and the Hachakee have been working on ways to harvest moisture from the air to irrigate the crops. She'll be thrilled to see that you've returned with the tools to make that happen. They've been roughshodding tools to rig a makeshift solution, but it hasn't produced much more than a few scraggly plants. Most of what we've been able to grow has gone straight to feeding horses and cattle. Please, follow me!"
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
The joy of being able to grow vegetables and food again is immense. Sera shares in the townsfolk’s happiness—it’s a sign of hope, of life returning. But as they begin making their way toward Councilwoman Verhenna’s house, her mind drifts with uncertainty.
Should she stay and help tend the fields, join in growing food for the people?
Should she raise a proper shrine to Paladine, to remind the people of the light that watches over them?
Should she focus on the town’s defenses, prepare for the darkness that still looms on the horizon?
Or... should she take up the mantle of a wandering hero once more?
Bucceran, the ever-watchful librarian, seemed to have ideas—rumors of things only heroes could face. Dangers only the brave dared touch. Sera wasn’t sure what path she would take yet.
But the pull of purpose—it was strong.
Hastos breathed easier as the townsfolk cheered. He knew it wouldnt last, but for now he'd take the win.
His smile was forced. Mass fervor always made him nervous. Too many years of seeing it turned and used as a weapon. A slight twist in the story and they'd be pulled to pieces. It was a force of nature not to be taken lightly.
He turns to Merkas. "I have no business with Verhanna, I'll stay with the carts as well if the group needs to split up."
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Kaylan guides you down the main street. You pass by the merchant district, with Kasi's shop, Dana's Dancing Lights, and Witchdoctor Duncan's Apothecary, then on to the tent community, which is greatly diminished. Many of the temporary residents have been housed, and the tent community is about half the size of what it was when you first arrived. In the newly available space, a well is being dug out. The construction is new, and not very deep, but the fervor with which people are working on the construction, you'd think they landed on a platinum mine. Past the well, to your right, is The Laughing Dwarf Dance Hall... then to your left, the graveyard and holy grounds. It's mostly rubble and dry weeds. The last druid who was trying to restore it appears to have abandoned the mission, so it's been forgotten in place of prioritizing housing. Beyond that, you make it to the headquarters and administration district, with Buckeron's, Verhanna's, Zahir's, and Ryanna's offices are. A new office is being finalized for Tekel's mercenary group, complete with a sign that reads Tianaran's Revenge, complete with a symbol of a silver dragon on the sign.
She guides you past the adminstration district to the "farm lands". It's more of a dusty flatlands with ragged sprouts of weeds and scrawny cattle and pigs to weak and tired to do much more than laze under the last few cool moments of the day. To the left, there are empty barrels loaded with tools, scrap wood, seeds. Next to it, there are pots of hearty desert plants ready to be planted. Rhyana is trying to organize the Hachakee to rotate soil and enrich it with fresh soil produced by a combination of compost, soil Duncan's personal garden, and clay-rich dirt that they're trying to break up to make usable. It's a sorry sight. When Rhyanna notices you arrive with the carts, she tenses breifly, then hurries up towards you.
"Dawnbound, I presume? You returned more quickly than expected, and still I wish you could've come quicker." She sighs with relief at your arrival and puts her hands on her hips. She's an elf, with dark skin, made darker by the sun, and she's clad in a white kaftan and head wrap. Her arms, neck, nose, fingers, and ears are dripping with ceremonial jewelry, and you notice she has a ring very similar to Verhanna's. Her eyes are soft but penetrating, and belies extraordinary intelligence. Her tone is soft and disarming though, and it's easy to see why she has a reputation for being the most popular of the council members. A representative of the people, she's often seen carousing with them in the cool of the evening, and is most likely to host meetings and allow the people to voice their complaints. But the stress is taking its toll on her. The only part of her that isn't completely pristine are her nails, which are worn to nubs, stained with dirt and gnarled from stress-chewing.
She goes to the supplies and sifts through one of the boxes before pulling out a scroll. She rolls it out and matches the crates with what seems to be her list. "All twelve accounted for!" she says with more than a little surprise in her voice. "Well done. You must be exhausted from your travels. You may leave the cart and horses here. I'll see to it that the horses are fed and watered before being returned to Glynnis. We have to survey and distribute these supplies immediately." She clears her throat and stands up straight. "Dawnbound. You have completed your task to our satisfaction! You are releived of the gaes upon you and are free to pursue your own interests in or out of Santekh." As her words are spoken, you feel a tingling sensation, and suddenly that nagging sensation in the back of your mind is gone. "Please go see Verhanna at your leisure to receive your pay. She'll be in her office until sundown, and I'm sure will be pleased to see you!"
Her smile is warm, as she waves for the Hachakee to come and unload the top row of crates for inspection. Six members of the tribe come forward and nod at you, a simple greeting and salute. "Sharn, you've represented us well. You will be honored tonight with drink and ceremony if you'll join us in the wilderness at sundown," one of the Hachakee says in a thick accent more accustomed to speaking their native tongue.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
“If it’s all the same to you, Ma’am, I thank you for releasing the spell, but I will not be leaving this shipment until it is distributed to those that need it. I may be a little worried as our first night here we were attacked and these crates have already been misplaced, by will or misdeed, once and I really don’t want it to happen again” Merkas says this from atop Barkly all the while watching her reactions. (Nat 20 insight check 20 total on Rhyana, her reaction at seeing us, the surprise at it being returned, and how she responds as he says) “Kasi was instrumental in retrieving the crates, as much as any of us. Please be sure she gets a fair portion of the supplies.”
Loyalty Begets Honour
Sharn smiled kindly and nodded, his hand rising to brush his mustache. "I appreciate the praise, but it wasn't only me. Kasi represented the Hachakee alongside me. Dare I say, she reminded me of my new home with you when times were darkest. I think the stars would shine brighter tonight if all of Dawnbound were there together at sundown." Sharn chuckled at Merkas' retort. "Merkas may seem small, Rhyanna, but his heart and soul are mighty." Sharn winked at both, but moreso Merkas, like a grandfather or uncle would. "I think it would be good if he assisted."
Sera felt a wave of relief as the geas lifted from her—subtle, but noticeable. Her thoughts cleared, and the pressure that had weighed on her heart eased. Still, she made a quiet note to herself: Think twice before accepting a mission under a geas again.
“Well, I’m glad it’s over,” she said, offering a tired but genuine smile. “I hope you get the supplies distributed fast.” She didn’t voice her concern aloud, but the thought lingered—what if someone tried to sabotage it?
Turning her attention to the tired horses, she nodded. “I’ll take care of the horses. A day—or a mission—isn’t over until the steeds are tended to.”
For a moment, she considered calling rain to help the new crops, but stopped herself. Let them manage the water supply properly. They had to learn to stand on their own.
“I’m heading to Glynnis’s,” she added, tugging gently at the reins. “See you all tomorrow.”
She offered a wave to her companions, uncertain what their plans were for the evening—but for her, it was time to rest.
Hastos wondered if the others felt any different as the charm was lifted. He replied to Rhyanna, “Thank you, but I am owed no recompense as I did not agree to the …” he struggled not to say ‘enslavement’ “… restriction.” Turning to Merkas, “Do you need accompaniment?” He asked.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
"Sure Haz, any extra eyes are a good thing" Leaning over in his saddle to talk the elf privately "Though, it may be best you stay back from them, so that they don't try to blame you for anything missing as you didn't get the spell on you"
Loyalty Begets Honour
Hastos eyes those in the vicinity and shrugs. “If you think that’s best.” He agrees and steps back to give the crews room to process the crates.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Ryhanna nods. "Admirable of you to stand watch. Twelve crates could take days to distribute, though. Everything must be logged and inventoried, then the council must be addressed to determine the urgency of each need. I intend to distribute some emergency supplies of food, water, and medicine immediately after inventory, but that could still be several hours. Then, in the morning, I wish to hold a town meeting to hear the residents' concerns. While I try to keep abreast of the needs of our people, I'd like an updated status, so I can know which resources are needed most. Then, I will convene with the council to present the report for approval."
She glances at Kasi, who stands proudly beside the cart, with her fire-newt helmet on, granting shade from the sun. A warm smile crosses Rhyanna's face. "Excellent work, Kasi! I'll admit, the town was nervous about abiding a kobold in our walls, but you've proven yourself exceptional. I'm sure this will bode well for your reputation amongst the people." Her smile remains gentle as she resumes addressing Merkas. "And of course, her portion will be fair. You have my word."
The Hachakee members look to each other nervously. "Hachakee ceremony belongs to Hachakee alone." A large man covered in dirt claps you on the shoulder in a show of affection and respect. "Be with your guild tonight. We will perform the ceremony another time."
cheapjoke123, currently, you are an honorary member of the Hachakee. But you're still on the outer circle. You can travel with them, live amongst them, and even share in their resources. They can even send you on quests and raids against the Dragon Army. But they're basically inviting you into the inner circle now. You wouldn't expect to become a decision-maker amongst the community, but you'd become a respected and trusted part of the tribe, which gives you access to secret knowledge, and influence within the clan, which is autonamous from Santekh. It's not necessary for the story arc, but this is an addition to your story arc, based on your backstory.
Rhyanna laughs merrily. "You do us a service, then! I was going to have them fed, watered, and groomed before returning them, but you've saved me time." She bows at you politely as you leave. Your trail leads back through headquarters, which seems to be bustling with activity. Tekel's soldiers are holding the people back who are crowding around them to get at the supplies. "You'll get what's yours!" You hear one of the guards shouting as he pushes the crowd back. Verhanna and Buckeran step out of their offices and hold their hands up to quiet the crowd and deliver a speech, which presumably will placate the crowds.
Further along, you make it past the holy grounds, and notice a small group of people wandering through it. They disappear behind a mauseleum.
Then, you make it to the Laughing Dwarf. Ahead of you, to the right, the tent community is even thinner than before, since many of them have moved to the Headquarter's District. But the ones who remain are working with extra fervor. The promise of food, water, and supplies have them putting their backs into every effort. They don't stop to cheer you anymore, but they do smile and salute as you pass by on your tired steed. You head around back to Glynnis's private stables and begin the work of stripping off their buckles, hitch gear, and saddles. Glynnis hears the horses and happily comes out to check on them, smiling when she sees you. "Sera!" She bellows! "Rumor has it, ye done good, lass!" There's laughter in her voice as she claps you on the back with surprising force that nearly knocks the wind out of you. "Hero's o' the day, is what thar sayin'! How'd me old friends treat ye?" She looks at the horses and their singed tails. Her lips purse, as she tries not to criticize. It was a dangerous mission, after all. She reminds herself to be grateful both horses made it back at all.
Rhyanna shrugs, and the Hachakee continue their work, grunting and sweating under the rising sun to finish unloading the top row of crates. Once the first six are down, they begin popping lids and sorting through the items. Once an inventory item is confirmed, Rhyanna checks it off a list and gives orders in Hachakee for where each crate should be placed. The process is tedious, but they seem to be moving efficiently. Rhyanna keeps glancing over her shoulder at the growing mob by the Headquarters District. You can tell she feels the peoples' urgency in the matter, and chews on the stubs of her nails as the Hachakee finish moving one crate and opens another.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
Hastos scans the crowd intensly as the unrest increases. As Verhanna tries the calm the crowd, he sees Buckeran and others.
”Ohhh fuuuck.” Hastos says. Not loudly, but where Sharn and Merkas can hear. Hastos urgently waves Merkas and Sharn over for a private conversation.
“Don’t be obvious, but looks like Tekel got his hands on that damned scythe.” Hastos says in a low voice. “… and looks like someone roughed up Buckeran. His arm is in a sling.”
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
“What!?” Merkas stands in the saddle on Barkly looking over the crowd at Tekel and Bucheran “He better have fallen of a ladder or something, if that mad mercenary did that to Bucky Barkly may have a good meal in the near future”
Merkas guides Barkly near to the entrance of the staging area. Holding her in a state of readiness. Non-threatening but imposing. (9-animal handling, guess the commotion is rough on Barkly)
Loyalty Begets Honour
Sera offered Glynnis a tired but amused smile. “You have no idea how close those kids came to becoming Strider food… Merkas actually tamed the beast. But that’s a long story—I’ll tell you everything after about three days of sleep, okay?” She winked, brushing a bit of dust from her shoulder.
She finished tending to the horses, gently patting their flanks. “You sweet things deserve rest as much as we do,” she murmured, grateful for their endurance.
The chaos around the crates was still echoing in her mind. “Such a fuss… but oh well,” she sighed with a shrug.
With a few quiet parting words to Glynnis, Sera headed for her chambers. She slipped out of her armor piece by piece, letting the weariness settle in her bones. Finally, she dove into bed, tucking her sword hilt close as if it were a stuffed animal from childhood.
Sleep claimed her quickly.
Sharn barely kept himself from gasping, then he whispered. "We might need to knock him out ... Wait, he's not in a rampage. Maybe he'll surrender it. I warned everyone that the thing was cursed. Let's see how Buckeran is and go from there."
Hastos turned to Sharn “Agreed. Get the story first. Perhaps Tekel is able to resist the scythe as we were able to. But I can’t believe that Buckeran just gave it to him.”
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Barkly accepts Merkas's lead, but stops away from the crowds. It wouldn't matter anyway, because the crowds definitely make room for Barkly. She's an imposing figure. You make it about halfway between the agricultural district and Headquarters. Enough to hear the complaints of the crowd, and make out some of what Verhanna's is saying. She's granting assurances that the supplies will be distributed as quickly as possible and that everyone will be given what they need. They just need to hold out a little longer and remember why Santekh was formed, and how infighting and rioting will undo that work. She's handling the crowd ok. But she's known for being fact-based and insensitive to people's feelings. So Buckeran steps in and makes a more emotional appeal. Bucky is more highly favored amongst the community, but tends to be a bit of a recluse, even moreso than Piruz. So while his charm may be fetching, the influence of his words don't spark as much hope as needed to quell the crowds. Tekel stands beside him with his hands balled into fists on his hips, his mysteriously acquired scythe gleaming in the sunlight, strapped to his back. Everything about him shines. It's like he's never gotten a speck of dirt on his armor in his life, the way he keeps it polished. His fluffy blonde hair dances in a gentle breeze, and his silvery eyes pierce the crowd with intimidating authority, despite being only slightly taller than Buckeran. He knows how to use his space well. He waves a signal at his soldiers, and they push back the crowd in a single rush with their shields. The crowd gives way angrily, but the crowd is now out of range to rush the two councilors.
Glynnis nods. "Yer room's all ready. I'll clean up here, then head back in t' work. Thar's ta be a celebratotion in yer honor at dusk, an' we're tha hosts! I 'spect a packed house, so yer gonna need yer rest fer all tha drinks tha town'll be buyin' ye." She replies merrily.
"Aye," Glynnis grunts. "Desperation be a dangerous thing. But they'll cool off once the supplies're distributed."
You approach the Headquartes and make your way to Buckeran's side. He notices you and smiles. When you fully see his face, you notice there's a bump on his head, a bruised eye, and a swollen lip that mostly healed. "And behold! Dawnbound is here-- the Heroes of the Day!" Tekel's expression changes to irritance at losing some spotlight time from Dawnbound. He scoffs and crosses his arms, staring Sharn and Hastos down with those peircing silver eyes of his.
"Please," Buckeran encourages, "Share with Santekh your glorious tale of victory! I'm sure we all want to know how Dawnbound returned with all twelve crates and... a GIANT STRIDER? Amazing creature! I've never seen one in real life before!" Buckeran blinks his eyes several times, then rubs the unbruised one to check his vision. "How in the world did you tame such a magnificent creature?!"
Properly distracted, some of the crowd gasps at the sight of Merkas's mount corraling their children and loved ones together for protection, while others lock their eyes on Hastos and Sharn like children gathered round for storytime.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
Staring at Tekel while listening to Verhana and Bucky’s pleas to the crowd, Merkas attempts to memorize every detail of the “guard”. Nearly forcing Barkly forward when the shield wall pushes forward, the kender stops when Dawnbound is mentioned. He smiles brightly as people turn to look at him and Barkly, talking calmly and consoling the crowd as they start to show fear. “This is Barkly, she was wounded and hungry out in the wilds. She was scared and driven nearly mad by hunger and pain. Sera helped heal her and we fed her some of our rations so she would calm down. Now she’s really a hood friend of mine. Just treat her like a horse, don’t sneak up on her and try not to walk behind her” (12 - Persuasion to calm the crowd in regards to Barkly)
After the short assurance, to show there is no danger, Merkas has Barkly sit as she would to allow in to mount.
”We are still on duty though, so the full story will have to wait. Just want to be sure all the supplies came back so the Ladies Verhana and Ryhana have accurate numbers and can give everyone what they are promised. Wouldn’t want to be the person that didn’t get anything just because the count was wrong right?”
Loyalty Begets Honour
Sera’s wishful thinking about finally getting some rest vanished quickly. The noise outside sounded like a riot brewing. She groaned and sat up, muttering, “Is Merkas’ Strider eating someone?”
With a heavy sigh, she got into her gear, cinching her armor with practiced motions before heading out toward the noise. The commotion only grew louder as she approached—shouts, demands, the unmistakable clamor of a desperate crowd. It didn’t take long to spot Verhenna and Bucceran doing their best to calm people down, but clearly with little success.
Then she heard it over the din: “Dawnbound… Giant Strider…” followed by cheers and laughter. Of course. Merkas had brought out his Strider and was already putting on a show, displaying his riding skills like a true kender showman.
Sera stopped at the edge of the crowd, arms crossed, letting him soak up the spotlight for now. If it distracted the mob and calmed them down, fine by her. Her eyes flicked over to Terkel Paladine—furious, ignored, and clearly seething at losing the crowd’s attention.
Sera smirked. Good.
Amazed by the little kender and his big mount, and excited by the story of your kindness to a wild animal, the crowd murmers curiously. You hear a few threatening comments pop up from the crowd. "That things a dragon! Get it out of here!" are some of the more common concerns that are mentioned. But others seem doubtful. Although a Giant Strider kind of looks like a dragon, and breathes fire, it is not dragonkin in any way. Still, those who choose to remain ignorant may be a threat to your mount if you don't protect her well.
Tekel's eyes fall on Sera... that piercing silvery gaze, but then his expression twists into a practiced smile. It's not genuine, but it does look pleasant. "Sera the Healer! Champion of Dawnbound," he calls out loudly enough to fully silence the crowd, who turn to you with curiosity. "It appears your bold leadership has won the day! Tell me. How many of those scaly wretches did you slay? Were you able to rid our town of neighboring vermin, or did you leave a little fun for my boys? Once the supplies are sorted, my troop would be all too delighted to route the smelly things." He glances over at Kasi, still hanging back, further back than Merkas. "Once and for all!"
He holds a gauntleted fist high in the air, and the crowd cheers.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin