Edeleth thanks Gavin warmly for all he help he gave when Edeleth had nothing. "Don't worry about your father, I believe he is covering up his real feelings. Remember the letter he left you that we found? I know myself, sometimes parents take it as a personal rejection when their children choose a different path when they do. But deep down, they are still proud. Or at least, I'm sure your father is."
He gladly writes a review in Gavin's book.
In my stay at the Hanging Chicken, I have found the rooms to be always comfortable, clean (except for in unusual circumstances), attractive and spacious. The food and drink is hearty and well-prepared, and one may meet travelers from all over Talaveroth within its walls. Gavin the innkeeper is friendly, competent, generous, open-hearted, and a true friend and hero of the city. I recommend the Hanging Chicken with whole heart.
Edeleth Treesong, Wood Elf Amdassador to the Six Clans, Designated Successor to the High Druid of Lomalos
With a final farewell and a promise to visit at the tavern on evenings when he has no ambassading to do, Edeleth sticks the strongbox into the Krampus sack and rejoins his friends at Ruskors.
"Now, then,"he says, "In ordinary circumstances, we should all share in my good fortune as we have shared everything. But these are official funds granted by the Council of Courts of the Westwoods to pay for the purchase or rental of a suitable embassy and other legitimate ambassadorial expenses.
"Such as..." he slides 500 gold down the counter to Roscoe. "This is not a personal gift to a friend, it is payment and a retainer for your services as a bodyguard, which you have entirely earned, and for ensuring the safety of the future embassy from enemy encroachment. And this..." He gives 500 to Elixisys, " This is not a personal gift to a friend, but a bribe to an official of the Secret Service to keep me informed. Not of any state secrets, just of what you and your familiar happen to learn of enemies to the Six Clans and the Westwoods. A completely legitimate expenditure. You are a government official, after all, I assume that you accept bribes.
"I shall also be paying a protection fee to the head of the local Thieves Guild as well, and...well, I am not yet sure what Zyman will be paid for, but I am quite certain I owe him 500 for some important office or other. That should leave enough to hire a secretary and a few servants, and to procure a modest embassy, or at least rent or make a down payment on one."
He tests the balance of his new scimitar. "Well, I believe I am ready for our next challenge. Shall we go find Sir Pebbles?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
((cough--Roscoe does have the coin....Edeleth just slipped you 500g.)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Elixisys quietly slips the gold into a pocket of his robe. "Thank you ambassador, I will be sure to keep you informed." He says with a wink and a smile. "You know, I've never thought about the fact that I'm a government official before. I've always just been someone who learned a bit to much magic a bit to late in life."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gronk in Bastion, Kingdom of Medrin Elixisysin Talaveroth (Team 2) Uthal in Lost Continent of Theviranne
Roscoe seems to beam with excitement at the offer of coin and gladly accepts it. "It's an honor to work with yous. Can't be letting anyone hurt yous after all!"
He happily offers the coin to Ruskor and points to one of the rings that he'd been offered. "That one, please. Thank yous!"
In the meantime Rosri can just watch dumbfounded as the Family organises an election to be his representative.
”And what about the items?” He ask again when he gathered himself. “I’m afraid I’m a little pressed on time.. The knights and the dogs are going to save Sir Pebbles today!” Hd say proudly
Zyman enter’s Ruskor’s counting loudly back from 1000, immediately seeks out a ring of mind shielding, and puts it on. Once he feels confident that his thoughts are his own, he apologises for the weird behaviour, and then seeks out Edeleth, before dragging him into a quiet corner: “Just listen. I’ve done something that could be terrible for us all in the long run, and it might already be too late... but one problem at the time. If ever I call out “Eurydice”, you are to do your utmost to knock me unconscious- you may only have a second to do so. Tell all the others to do the same, I need to try thinking about this as little as possible, and so can only tell you now.
Alternatively, I’ve already BEEN possessed, and have already unleashed one of the greatest evils back into the world... BUT, I have a way out for us. If I unlock the secret to longevity, that Devil is barred from returning to the plane I reside in, and I could potentially be able to safeguard the material realm for forever. It’s now not only a personal matter that I find the key to life beyond death, it’s a matter of cosmic importance!”
Once finished, he tries to relax and wait for Edeleth’s response, trying to think of images of Eurydice, and of the tree that Edeleth planted in the landscape Zyman had left twisted by the Shadow King. If anyone could make good his mistakes, it was this druid, his friend.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Frozen in shock, Edeleth stares at the desperate warlock. "Eurydice," he repeats carefully.
Edeleth remembers what happened at Oakfields. If Zyman is this frightened, the situation must indeed be dire. He wonders if he even has the power to take Ozymandias out in time, should the threatened emergency occur--most of his offensive spells are spread out over an area. He will need to consider his spells carefully from now on, to make certain he has something ready at all times, a spell that hits harder than Roscoe in a rage.
"I swear that I will do my utmost to take you down,"he promises. Then he takes Zyman's hand and drops a pile of coins in it. "I don't think that even the most pettifogging bureaucrat on the Council of the Westwood Courts could object to my making a grant of 500 gold toward safeguarding the material plane forever. Let's make this happen, my friend."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Zyman gives Edeleth a look of thanks and hands him a note, and then switches his demeanour to the serious, calculating mind that his friends recognised more readily, before taking the ring off and returning it to the shop clerk with a polite smile: I had to do what I did to guarantee my powers for the time being... Now, let’s get to rescuing Sir Pebbles.”
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
As the Gypsie election process unfolds over the next few days, the old Gypsie lady known as Elmira emerges from her lab and hand Rosri the following two items (OOC I guess now I have to make them in the homebrew item maker. I haven't messed with them too much yet, this will be a good opportunity):
The Christmas Devil's Wrath: Sentient item, very rare, requires attunement +2 Heavy Crossbow. Every time the attuned wielder scores a critical hit with this weapon, the next attack is considered to be with an Arrow of Slaying. The crossbow is made from Krampus' horn.
The Eye of the Krampus: sentient item, very rare. Requires attunement. When activated, this amulet containing Krampus' eye allows the wearer to cast True Seeing for 1 round as a free action. After that, it cannot be used again until the next sunrise.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ooc: we can sort out the details later. For now lets get the story going.
Rosti accepts the items and thanks the old ***** (what is her name?). The look really intimidating. “Wow, I can’t imagine how you did it but I am glad that you did! This will help us greatly and it will not be forgotten!” He say and hugs her. “I must leave now. The others are probably waiting for me already.”
“Take care and good luck with the voting process. Send me word of who gets selected and I’ll try to plan for our next step.” He dons the amulet and shoulders the crossbow and then he is off.
He runs through the now crowded streets toward the gate where he is supposed to meet up with the dogs and the knights. He is constantly watching out for the Gingerbread mans underlings. (Perception: 13)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Edeleth reads Zyman's note for the tenth time, as if hoping that, this time, it will say something different.
Turnng to the clerk, he forces a shaky smile and says, "Would that Ring of Mind Shielding be for sale, by any chance? And if so...how much? And do you have more of them?"
He also struggles to remember anything he recalled about an entity known as Plague. (Arcane? 9 Religion? 5 History? 23)
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
While the others have been talking Elixisys has been off inspecting the array of shortswords for sale. When he sees the others are at the counter he picks a finely crafted one that looks of elvish design from the bunch and brings it to the counter. He pulls the bag that Edeleth just gave him from his pocket and places it on the counter. "Easy come easy go I guess." He then takes a few steps away from the counter and speaks a mumbled word in elvish to which the sword lights up in a sheath of flames. He mumbles another word and the flames die out. ((flame tongue shortsword))
His eyes then go black for a second before he turns to the group. "Rosri is waiting for us at the gate when we are ready."
Edeleth nods. "We should go as soon as possible. We have...very important things to discuss."
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Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Roscoe nods in agreement after his things are gathered. He was ready for adventure and exploring again. Too much time in town always made the halfling a bit anxious.
Heading to the gate with his friends, Edeleth sights Rosri waiting. After the usual greetings, Edeleth looks nervously at Zyman, seeing that the ring is safely on his finger (Zyman seems to be tapping his toes along to some music only he can hear) and says, "I'm afraid our friend Ozymandias has got himself into a spot of trouble." He hands the note to Rosri to share with the others.
"We are going to have to keep an eye on him, and if he speaks the warning word, 'Eurydice,' we must attempt to, er...subdue him as quickly as possible." It crosses his mind that it might be safer, more sensible, and more humane to simple cut the warlock's throat now, while he suspects nothing and before he can become a threat to the entire Material Plane. But he owes Zyman his life, and at the very least, a chance to get his freedom back.
"We will overcome this difficulty together, as we have overcome every challenge that has faced us so far," he says. "Zyman, if your protection and deliverance are within my power, ..." He hesitates, having recently vowed to stop making reckless promises he might not be able to keep. But then he goes on, "It will be done."
The note:
Dear Friends,
In case I should die before I plan to, it is of the utmost importance that my body be cremated. Keep the ashes, and spread a minimal amount, ideally near the tree Edeleth planted, when we first rescued Sir Pebbles.
Edeleth, I’ve given you this letter, because I know you’re capable of what I ask next. I’ve know of the existence of other planes of existence for a while now, as a result of my studies. But since that fateful day in the volcano, I also know that it is possible for mortals to cross the divides between them! I will do all in my power to work with you and the other magically inclined knights of the hanging chicken to find a way to reach other planes in a controlled fashion, and for as many of you as possible to learn how to achieve such a thing.
Should I be dead, and you still retain most of my ashes, try to visit as many planes that contain living creatures as possible, and in each, spread a little of my ashes and consecrate them, to bury me- or parts thereof at least.
I know that this task sounds both arduous, dangerous, and grim, but I promise you the good that will result from this far outweighs those considerations!
To explain: In a mishappen attempt to bring back my dearly departed Eurydice, I threw myself into the arcane studies, trying desperately to find a way to bring her back. In so doing, I unknowingly entered a deal with the Shadow King, a lich of great power and greater evil still. Now, my studies have since revealed that he has been defeated and imprisoned before, although what happened at the volcano might have been a crack in his shackles...
At any rate, I tried to find a more... neutral patron, and invoked the powers of the Raven Queen, Mistress of the Shadow Fell and Queen of Fates. In so doing, I incurred the wrath of the Shadow King, who in his impotent rage could do nothing but remove my powers. There I was now, destroying one evil entity’s way to access our world, but powerless to further change it.
At this stage, Plague manifested before me: He is another terribly evil entity, but has similarly been imprisoned. He promised to restore my powers, and in the absence of any sign from the Raven Queen, I had no choice but to accept. In negotiating with him however, I had negotiated that he could only possess me for six seconds, during which time he could hurt neither body or soul of any living creature on the material plane, and that once the six seconds were up, he would have to leave and could not return to me or any plane I resided in. The first part is why I ask you to take me out of the fight if I should feel the possession, or if I’m unable to do so, then I ask you to do use your initiative and strike me down, if you feel it safer.
The second is why you must spread my ashes across all known planes. If parts of me are there, Plague can never come to those planes without having to face the Devil Barons themselves. In this way, I hope to trap Plague in a prison of his own making.
If you have any questions regarding the contents of this letter, or the requests made to you verbally, please give me a sign beforehand, best done by touching your ring and little finger to your left temple. I will know to put on my ring of mind shielding, which should protect our discussion from Plague.
Ah, yes, the final thing: I’m not sure my funds are sufficient to buy a ring of mind shielding immediately. Would it be possible for you to purchase it with your ambassadorial credit, and for me to reimburse you in rates?
Yours truly,
Ozymandias Merexes, Knight Inquisitor of the Kingdom of Three Peaks
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Roscoe seems rather puzzled by all this new information. "If that's really what needs to be done, we's can do it. We's don't really deal with magics of that type often so don't really understand it all. We's just know that things that affect the mind can be very dangerous. Yous all should be careful with the things we's been facing. Very dangerous."
Elixisys looks over at Zyman with troubled eyes. He then looks down and sees that the ring is still on his hand. "With that on I assume we are safe but if you think otherwise then stop me." He raises his unbandaged hand to his forehead in the way described. Once Zyman nods he continues, "I have a few quite powerful spells on hand. If you think it is best I can endeavour to keep one of them on hand in case you need it. They are spells of a highly destructive manor and I cannot promise you it will be a painless death but if you feel the need I will do it. Since we are together for this mission I will stay beside you and if you feel the need I will call down the magic upon us, as long as our friends here are not inside the blast."He gestures to the other three. "All I need is 20 feet."
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Gronk in Bastion, Kingdom of Medrin Elixisysin Talaveroth (Team 2) Uthal in Lost Continent of Theviranne
Roscoe seems to grow uncomfortable with the idea of such a strong attack on his friend. "We's just hope it never comes to that,"the halfing says with a hint of sadness.
"Friends, i thank you all for your concern. Two things… If possible, I'd very much like for you to find a way to subdue me for six seconds, rather than to kill me outright, though the second is acceptable, should it be the only option. Second, I'm afraid it is far more likely that Plague has already taken his part of the bargain to free himself, and that we should instead strive for the second contingency." Zyman tried to sound cheerful, but a cracking in his voice quickly let the truth shine through the façade.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
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Edeleth thanks Gavin warmly for all he help he gave when Edeleth had nothing. "Don't worry about your father, I believe he is covering up his real feelings. Remember the letter he left you that we found? I know myself, sometimes parents take it as a personal rejection when their children choose a different path when they do. But deep down, they are still proud. Or at least, I'm sure your father is."
He gladly writes a review in Gavin's book.
In my stay at the Hanging Chicken, I have found the rooms to be always comfortable, clean (except for in unusual circumstances), attractive and spacious. The food and drink is hearty and well-prepared, and one may meet travelers from all over Talaveroth within its walls. Gavin the innkeeper is friendly, competent, generous, open-hearted, and a true friend and hero of the city. I recommend the Hanging Chicken with whole heart.
Edeleth Treesong, Wood Elf Amdassador to the Six Clans, Designated Successor to the High Druid of Lomalos
With a final farewell and a promise to visit at the tavern on evenings when he has no ambassading to do, Edeleth sticks the strongbox into the Krampus sack and rejoins his friends at Ruskors.
"Now, then," he says, "In ordinary circumstances, we should all share in my good fortune as we have shared everything. But these are official funds granted by the Council of Courts of the Westwoods to pay for the purchase or rental of a suitable embassy and other legitimate ambassadorial expenses.
"Such as..." he slides 500 gold down the counter to Roscoe. "This is not a personal gift to a friend, it is payment and a retainer for your services as a bodyguard, which you have entirely earned, and for ensuring the safety of the future embassy from enemy encroachment. And this..." He gives 500 to Elixisys, " This is not a personal gift to a friend, but a bribe to an official of the Secret Service to keep me informed. Not of any state secrets, just of what you and your familiar happen to learn of enemies to the Six Clans and the Westwoods. A completely legitimate expenditure. You are a government official, after all, I assume that you accept bribes.
"I shall also be paying a protection fee to the head of the local Thieves Guild as well, and...well, I am not yet sure what Zyman will be paid for, but I am quite certain I owe him 500 for some important office or other. That should leave enough to hire a secretary and a few servants, and to procure a modest embassy, or at least rent or make a down payment on one."
He tests the balance of his new scimitar. "Well, I believe I am ready for our next challenge. Shall we go find Sir Pebbles?"
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Roscoe thanks Ruskor for his time. "Thank yous. We's will work on getting the coin and return!"Roscoe then heads back to meet up with the group.((cough--Roscoe does have the coin....Edeleth just slipped you 500g.)
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Elixisys quietly slips the gold into a pocket of his robe. "Thank you ambassador, I will be sure to keep you informed." He says with a wink and a smile. "You know, I've never thought about the fact that I'm a government official before. I've always just been someone who learned a bit to much magic a bit to late in life."
Gronk in Bastion, Kingdom of Medrin Elixisys in Talaveroth (Team 2) Uthal in Lost Continent of Theviranne
Roscoe seems to beam with excitement at the offer of coin and gladly accepts it. "It's an honor to work with yous. Can't be letting anyone hurt yous after all!"
He happily offers the coin to Ruskor and points to one of the rings that he'd been offered. "That one, please. Thank yous!"
In the meantime Rosri can just watch dumbfounded as the Family organises an election to be his representative.
”And what about the items?” He ask again when he gathered himself. “I’m afraid I’m a little pressed on time.. The knights and the dogs are going to save Sir Pebbles today!” Hd say proudly
Zyman enter’s Ruskor’s counting loudly back from 1000, immediately seeks out a ring of mind shielding, and puts it on. Once he feels confident that his thoughts are his own, he apologises for the weird behaviour, and then seeks out Edeleth, before dragging him into a quiet corner: “Just listen. I’ve done something that could be terrible for us all in the long run, and it might already be too late... but one problem at the time. If ever I call out “Eurydice”, you are to do your utmost to knock me unconscious- you may only have a second to do so. Tell all the others to do the same, I need to try thinking about this as little as possible, and so can only tell you now.
Alternatively, I’ve already BEEN possessed, and have already unleashed one of the greatest evils back into the world... BUT, I have a way out for us. If I unlock the secret to longevity, that Devil is barred from returning to the plane I reside in, and I could potentially be able to safeguard the material realm for forever. It’s now not only a personal matter that I find the key to life beyond death, it’s a matter of cosmic importance!”
Once finished, he tries to relax and wait for Edeleth’s response, trying to think of images of Eurydice, and of the tree that Edeleth planted in the landscape Zyman had left twisted by the Shadow King. If anyone could make good his mistakes, it was this druid, his friend.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Frozen in shock, Edeleth stares at the desperate warlock. "Eurydice," he repeats carefully.
Edeleth remembers what happened at Oakfields. If Zyman is this frightened, the situation must indeed be dire. He wonders if he even has the power to take Ozymandias out in time, should the threatened emergency occur--most of his offensive spells are spread out over an area. He will need to consider his spells carefully from now on, to make certain he has something ready at all times, a spell that hits harder than Roscoe in a rage.
"I swear that I will do my utmost to take you down," he promises. Then he takes Zyman's hand and drops a pile of coins in it. "I don't think that even the most pettifogging bureaucrat on the Council of the Westwood Courts could object to my making a grant of 500 gold toward safeguarding the material plane forever. Let's make this happen, my friend."
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Zyman gives Edeleth a look of thanks and hands him a note, and then switches his demeanour to the serious, calculating mind that his friends recognised more readily, before taking the ring off and returning it to the shop clerk with a polite smile: I had to do what I did to guarantee my powers for the time being... Now, let’s get to rescuing Sir Pebbles.”
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
As the Gypsie election process unfolds over the next few days, the old Gypsie lady known as Elmira emerges from her lab and hand Rosri the following two items (OOC I guess now I have to make them in the homebrew item maker. I haven't messed with them too much yet, this will be a good opportunity):
The Christmas Devil's Wrath: Sentient item, very rare, requires attunement +2 Heavy Crossbow. Every time the attuned wielder scores a critical hit with this weapon, the next attack is considered to be with an Arrow of Slaying. The crossbow is made from Krampus' horn.
The Eye of the Krampus: sentient item, very rare. Requires attunement. When activated, this amulet containing Krampus' eye allows the wearer to cast True Seeing for 1 round as a free action. After that, it cannot be used again until the next sunrise.
Ooc: we can sort out the details later. For now lets get the story going.
Rosti accepts the items and thanks the old ***** (what is her name?). The look really intimidating.
“Wow, I can’t imagine how you did it but I am glad that you did! This will help us greatly and it will not be forgotten!” He say and hugs her. “I must leave now. The others are probably waiting for me already.”
“Take care and good luck with the voting process. Send me word of who gets selected and I’ll try to plan for our next step.” He dons the amulet and shoulders the crossbow and then he is off.
He runs through the now crowded streets toward the gate where he is supposed to meet up with the dogs and the knights. He is constantly watching out for the Gingerbread mans underlings. (Perception: 13)
Edeleth reads Zyman's note for the tenth time, as if hoping that, this time, it will say something different.
Turnng to the clerk, he forces a shaky smile and says, "Would that Ring of Mind Shielding be for sale, by any chance? And if so...how much? And do you have more of them?"
He also struggles to remember anything he recalled about an entity known as Plague. (Arcane? 9 Religion? 5 History? 23)
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
While the others have been talking Elixisys has been off inspecting the array of shortswords for sale. When he sees the others are at the counter he picks a finely crafted one that looks of elvish design from the bunch and brings it to the counter. He pulls the bag that Edeleth just gave him from his pocket and places it on the counter. "Easy come easy go I guess." He then takes a few steps away from the counter and speaks a mumbled word in elvish to which the sword lights up in a sheath of flames. He mumbles another word and the flames die out. ((flame tongue shortsword))
His eyes then go black for a second before he turns to the group. "Rosri is waiting for us at the gate when we are ready."
Gronk in Bastion, Kingdom of Medrin Elixisys in Talaveroth (Team 2) Uthal in Lost Continent of Theviranne
Edeleth nods. "We should go as soon as possible. We have...very important things to discuss."
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Roscoe nods in agreement after his things are gathered. He was ready for adventure and exploring again. Too much time in town always made the halfling a bit anxious.
Heading to the gate with his friends, Edeleth sights Rosri waiting. After the usual greetings, Edeleth looks nervously at Zyman, seeing that the ring is safely on his finger (Zyman seems to be tapping his toes along to some music only he can hear) and says, "I'm afraid our friend Ozymandias has got himself into a spot of trouble." He hands the note to Rosri to share with the others.
"We are going to have to keep an eye on him, and if he speaks the warning word, 'Eurydice,' we must attempt to, er...subdue him as quickly as possible." It crosses his mind that it might be safer, more sensible, and more humane to simple cut the warlock's throat now, while he suspects nothing and before he can become a threat to the entire Material Plane. But he owes Zyman his life, and at the very least, a chance to get his freedom back.
"We will overcome this difficulty together, as we have overcome every challenge that has faced us so far," he says. "Zyman, if your protection and deliverance are within my power, ..." He hesitates, having recently vowed to stop making reckless promises he might not be able to keep. But then he goes on, "It will be done."
The note:
Dear Friends,
In case I should die before I plan to, it is of the utmost importance that my body be cremated. Keep the ashes, and spread a minimal amount, ideally near the tree Edeleth planted, when we first rescued Sir Pebbles.
Edeleth, I’ve given you this letter, because I know you’re capable of what I ask next. I’ve know of the existence of other planes of existence for a while now, as a result of my studies. But since that fateful day in the volcano, I also know that it is possible for mortals to cross the divides between them! I will do all in my power to work with you and the other magically inclined knights of the hanging chicken to find a way to reach other planes in a controlled fashion, and for as many of you as possible to learn how to achieve such a thing.
Should I be dead, and you still retain most of my ashes, try to visit as many planes that contain living creatures as possible, and in each, spread a little of my ashes and consecrate them, to bury me- or parts thereof at least.
I know that this task sounds both arduous, dangerous, and grim, but I promise you the good that will result from this far outweighs those considerations!
To explain: In a mishappen attempt to bring back my dearly departed Eurydice, I threw myself into the arcane studies, trying desperately to find a way to bring her back. In so doing, I unknowingly entered a deal with the Shadow King, a lich of great power and greater evil still. Now, my studies have since revealed that he has been defeated and imprisoned before, although what happened at the volcano might have been a crack in his shackles...
At any rate, I tried to find a more... neutral patron, and invoked the powers of the Raven Queen, Mistress of the Shadow Fell and Queen of Fates. In so doing, I incurred the wrath of the Shadow King, who in his impotent rage could do nothing but remove my powers. There I was now, destroying one evil entity’s way to access our world, but powerless to further change it.
At this stage, Plague manifested before me: He is another terribly evil entity, but has similarly been imprisoned. He promised to restore my powers, and in the absence of any sign from the Raven Queen, I had no choice but to accept. In negotiating with him however, I had negotiated that he could only possess me for six seconds, during which time he could hurt neither body or soul of any living creature on the material plane, and that once the six seconds were up, he would have to leave and could not return to me or any plane I resided in. The first part is why I ask you to take me out of the fight if I should feel the possession, or if I’m unable to do so, then I ask you to do use your initiative and strike me down, if you feel it safer.
The second is why you must spread my ashes across all known planes. If parts of me are there, Plague can never come to those planes without having to face the Devil Barons themselves. In this way, I hope to trap Plague in a prison of his own making.
If you have any questions regarding the contents of this letter, or the requests made to you verbally, please give me a sign beforehand, best done by touching your ring and little finger to your left temple. I will know to put on my ring of mind shielding, which should protect our discussion from Plague.
Ah, yes, the final thing: I’m not sure my funds are sufficient to buy a ring of mind shielding immediately. Would it be possible for you to purchase it with your ambassadorial credit, and for me to reimburse you in rates?
Yours truly,
Ozymandias Merexes, Knight Inquisitor of the Kingdom of Three Peaks
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Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Roscoe seems rather puzzled by all this new information. "If that's really what needs to be done, we's can do it. We's don't really deal with magics of that type often so don't really understand it all. We's just know that things that affect the mind can be very dangerous. Yous all should be careful with the things we's been facing. Very dangerous."
Elixisys looks over at Zyman with troubled eyes. He then looks down and sees that the ring is still on his hand. "With that on I assume we are safe but if you think otherwise then stop me." He raises his unbandaged hand to his forehead in the way described. Once Zyman nods he continues, "I have a few quite powerful spells on hand. If you think it is best I can endeavour to keep one of them on hand in case you need it. They are spells of a highly destructive manor and I cannot promise you it will be a painless death but if you feel the need I will do it. Since we are together for this mission I will stay beside you and if you feel the need I will call down the magic upon us, as long as our friends here are not inside the blast." He gestures to the other three. "All I need is 20 feet."
Gronk in Bastion, Kingdom of Medrin Elixisys in Talaveroth (Team 2) Uthal in Lost Continent of Theviranne
Roscoe seems to grow uncomfortable with the idea of such a strong attack on his friend. "We's just hope it never comes to that," the halfing says with a hint of sadness.
"Friends, i thank you all for your concern. Two things… If possible, I'd very much like for you to find a way to subdue me for six seconds, rather than to kill me outright, though the second is acceptable, should it be the only option. Second, I'm afraid it is far more likely that Plague has already taken his part of the bargain to free himself, and that we should instead strive for the second contingency." Zyman tried to sound cheerful, but a cracking in his voice quickly let the truth shine through the façade.
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