Rawk will excitedly hop and fly across the ground between each building speaking quickly. "This one is currently empty. Maybe it could be one of yours if you decide to stay. This one in the Blacksmith shop, he's pretty nice. He made my axe for me. This one stores some of the crops that Elia grows...." and continues on until they reach the guest structure. "And this one I like to call our the Dom-Tavern.... so how did you guys escape the temple? How many yuan-ti did you kill on the way?" she chirps with a spark of curiosity in her eye as she perches on one of the beds and waits patiently for a response.
Despite her childlike enthusiasm, Rawk is more than fully mature in Aarakocra years. As she flutters about the village you catch closer glimpses of her curves and features when she pauses to talk. Her eagle like head, wings and clawed feet display her avian heritage but her torso and legs down to her first knee are quite similar to a humans minus all the feathers. You assume her excitement is due to living in this small village and guess she doesn't get out much.
"We found ourselves in a pit with an iron grate above us. They had some kind of spell dampening device setup in the room we were confined to and we triggered it. Alerted, our guard took us to Fenthasa for punishment but we were able to impress Fenthasa and she allowed us to work as slaves rather than be sacrificed for that day at least. We each did our demeaning job and used it as an opportunity to learn the layout of the temple and create an escape plan. We were able to disable the spell dampening device and gain an advantage over our guards. We then made our way though the temple and using a magic circle were transported to Slithotep's chambers. We fought for what seemed like an eternity but were victorious. After Daner cut of Slithotep's head we left his chambers and made our way to the cave where there was an underground river. Using the yuan-ti's canoes we set off down the river and narrowly avoided death from large terrible beasts that inhabited the water." Tempest pauses thinking to himself about how lucky the had been. "I'm not sure how many we killed. It all was a bit of a blur. Perhaps one of the others remembers."
((Whoops, sorry for my delay! A period of business. All my spare time spent washing my hands :p))
Erro, still fascinated with Rawk, will keep pace and nearly match the enthusiasm of Rawk as she shows off the buildings and pipes out explanations of this and that. Erro will also listen with great interest and amazement at the story of the four companions in the Yuan-ti temple. He couldn’t believe his ears.
Once they are settled in, Erro, being extremely curious and much less exhausted than the rest, would peek his head outside of the door and start to poke around to see what there was to see. Not in a covert way, but open and wandering, if he was permitted to do so. He would not overstep his bounds, but he would struggle to realize when he had done so.
"Really? I would've chopped her head off too. You guys must be pretty smooth talkers to convince a yuan-ti to do that. We have some pretty big beasts out here in the jungle too... smaller annoying ones mostly though." Rawk replies focused in on every word spoken, her head bobbing up and down slightly for the duration. It would cock to the side anytime something surprised her in the recantation. Rawk would wait patiently to see if anyone else had something to say or was just going to rest then head back to the canopy to see if her father had returned. "Well I should probably go check to make sure my dad returned from patrol. If you need anything just yell for Rawk... or one of the other villagers, or just yell."
When/ if her father returns, she'd tell him all about the new strangers and their stories. She'd fly around the village canopy and occassionally... (quite often) look over the guest center and watch. When she returned home her father would have to settle her down and urge her to sleep. Rawk would nest and find it hard to sleep from excitement but eventually find rest eager to watch events unfold the following day.
Ellis had looked around the small town, seeing that it looks like they are on hard times as he thought of how his town had been like that before he was able to make money for them. They got to the guest building as Rawk asked them how they escaped the temple and how many yuan-ti they had killed. He nodded as Tempest explained how they had escaped but couldn't remember exactly how many they had killed though. He nodded as Rawks told them to yell if they need anything, yawning. Ellis was exhausted after everything that they all had gone through, really wanting to get some sleep. "We should rest up now that we're somewhere safe and secure. It's been a long day." he had said to everyone, choosing a bed next to Tahvo. If the group wants to go to sleep, then Ellis would lay down and soon fall asleep. But if not, he'll stay awake with the group for any more discussion among them.
"Much appreciated Rawk. Before you go, hand these out to anyone who's hungry. They'll only need one per person." Tempest replies and will use the 2 remaining 1st level slots to cast Goodberry creating 20 berries and hand them to Rawk carefully. Then he'll smile to himself watching the beautiful birdlike creature flutter away and yawn stretching out his arms. "I agree Ellis." Tempest will lie down on his bed placing his bag under his head as a pillow and fall asleep.
Erro spends some time wandering around the village. He is met with a reserved curiosity, nothing hostile but neither are people swarming him. Mostly folks are focusing on whatever work they are doing; tending their gardens, crafting clothes, baskets and tools. Towards the center of the village he finds a larger, domed stone structure. Intricate carvings surround a strong wooden door. Two guards polite but firmly indicate that this place is not for him to enter. As he walks, he gets a nasty surprise when several small creatures, looking like mini versions of the Rippers they encountered, run by near him. These have distinct feathers all over their bodies, and would look like birds if not for the lack of a beak, and the dexterous looking arms ending in sharp claws. After his initial scare he sees these two pounce on a mouse, eating it up in seconds. A little girl runs out after them, and picks one up giggling. Erro surmises that here, these mini-Rippers are more like cats, across between pets and mousers to the villagers.
He realises that the village is completely surrounded by the protective thicket of magically-animated plant life they had come through which gives some sense of security. He is again left with impression of decline... people are struggling, and the population is clearly less than it was. The Yuan-ti have taken their toll. Onelast thing he sees that interests him is a more wild part of the village, nearby the 'wall'. This looks like a wild Grove, and the trees and thickets are dense enough that he cannot see in,nor is there an obvious path. Unless he wouldlike to explore anything specific more, he can return to the others if he wishes a rest.
Back in the Guest place, Darion nods wearily at the others "I'm glad there is somewhere better to rest. Before I can lie down though, I'm going to spend a little time with my prize." he waves the spellbook he found and sits down, carefully discharging the traps harmlessly. Though he does not posses the materials to transcribe spells at the moment, he will start to study them with the aim of doing this eventually.
Daner nods at the group, mutters about being tired and goes to lie down. As dusk approaches, a group of villagers come in with a simple meal and water for the party. The meal is a medley of dried meats, fruits and vegetables which though not exotic is tasty enough.
Shortly after this, Rawk would notice her father and his scout party returning. When her father sees her he will come over and embrace Rawk, and he has clearly been in battle. He is limping, and there is blood on his feathers.
"Don't worry, hatchling," he says gruffly "A Yuan-ti patrol we asked a few questions of. It's odd, the Yuan-ti seem to be heading back to their temple. We even found some that seemed to have been killed by other Yuan-ti! They still have the sense to keep a presence in that damned fort of theirs... but the jungle is suddenly clearer of them."
After Rawk has explained about the strangers, her father looks pleased "well, some good news at last. Perhaps this civil war of theirs opens up a chance for us! But for now, I need to report then rest...."
If there is anything else you want to do let me know, otherwise you are all free to take a long rest.
In the morning, after having breakfast brought to you Seresh comes and finds you.
"I hope you are all rested. Our Leader would meet with you four, as leaders of the escape..." she gestures to Darion, Daner, Ellis and Tempest "we are trying to decide how to best use the opportunity your actions seem to have given us."
Rawk and her father are also both invited to attend... Indeed Rawk is specifically asked to attend,and her father looks protective and worried at that...
Tempest will thank the villagers for their hospitality and eat a little of the food but try not to deplete their reserves. He'll awaken early in the morning refreshed and ready for the day, agreeing to meet with the others but adding "You should consider including Erro. While not being imprisoned with us, he has proven himself a capable fighter. I still leave that choice to you but wanted to give my support."
((It’s been hard for me to post the last week, but I wanted to say, foofaspoon, you are doing an amazing job! Immersive and delightful, and not even doing it for a book like I did. I enjoy the experience and appreciate you putting it on for us!))
Seresh frowns a little at Tempest's suggestion, then abruptly nods "The rest of your companions are still clearly needing time to heal and recuperate. We are in need of strong fighters, I think." She nods at Erro "please, if you would accompany me?"
She will lead the group out, taking them through the village which seems strangely deserted. Darion looks around, his natural suspicion roused by this. However after a few short minutes they arrive at the round stone building Erro found last night. Several hundred of the villagers stand around in a circle. In the centre is an open ground, and some chairs are laid out. The largest in the center sits an older man, his body scared from long-healed wounds. His hair is long and grey, and his eyes are shrewd and thoughtful.
Seresh takes the chair next to him, gesturing for the party to wait, just inside the open area. Sitting on the chief's other side is Elia who gives a friendly nod to the party, though she has a strange, slightly strained look on her face. Two other humans, who you do not recognise, occupy two of the other seats.
Rawk, you and your father have similarly made your way to the council. He walks proudly in, taking the remaining seat near the Leader, though you notice his leg still clearly hurts him.
The man in the middle addresses the original party of four, though casts a look at Erro too.
"I am Quirin, Leader of the Dom-gar. We have much to thank you for, in helping our proud - if foolish - Hunter to escape the Yuan-ti," he gestures to Kanush in the crowd who smiles at you "not to mention the slaying of the monster Slithotep and causing such welcome disruption to the Snake-fanciers."
As he pauses, you notice that Jaron is also in the crowd, and at the chief's mention of Kanush he looks strangely torn, discomforted as if he can't work out what to think.
"So before we go further it would be useful to hear if you have a take on this conflict within the Yuan-ti?" continues Quirin "Did you manage to glean from Fenthasa anything about her plans? Seresh cautions us that she may be a more deadly threat than Slithotep in the long run."
Seresh nods "Her cunning is matched only by her cruelty. Slithotep was a brute. She is all snake."
She then pauses, and looks at you all expectantly.
Erro enjoys his walk around the village, off-put as he was at first by the pet rippers. Erro is saddened by the signs of decline, which reminded him of his home. Those who resisted slowly ebbed away until the corrupt forces partnered with the Yuan-ti. Who knows what these people could contribute to the world if not for the brutal circumstances?
Erro gives a nod at Tempest's confidence in him. "As far as I am concerned, my honor demands that I owe you all a life debt. You can count on me." Erro later attempts to chat with his new compatriots, but most of them are likely already asleep as exhausted as they are. Erro takes out a small, tarnished lamp from a pouch and ritualistically polishes it off, though the tarnish never goes away. He does so until he dozes off to sleep himself.
The next day, at the village meeting, Erro is all ears, excited to hear what is happening, but disappointed that it looked as if he was going to be going off to war already. A weakened Yuan-ti hive didn't sound so bad; maybe he'd been in worse scapes, though this Fenthaza sounded bad. Erro doesn't have anything to report of the temple as he wasn't there. (Bradley will remind you that Fenthaza was a true believer. She sought to find a way to summon forth Dendar the Night Serpent again, while Slithotep became obsessed with obtaining martial/military might for himself. You learned something about Dendar returning through somewhere in the Peaks of Flame... it has been like 7 months since we started.. may have gotten buried!)
Tempest will take a step forward, bow then standing back up say, "She is wise and meticulous. Her dedication to her religion makes her even more dangerous. She has beguiled many and will stop at no end to accomplish her goals. In regards to the temple, it may still be in turmoil but I doubt her smooth tongue or sadistic nature would allow the fighting to continue this long. Regardless, they have been weakened. I do not know to what extent but if there was a time to deal a blow to the nearby yuan-ti, it would be soon." Tempest pauses to think and reflects on the temple, its many rooms, corridors and vast armory. He recalls the vast number of yuan-ti beyond the large double doors and the huge beasts from the river. He thinks back to his time alone in the forest, how he had to deal with predators and how he hunted prey then continues.
"In my opinion the best way to damage the yuan-ti now is to win by attrition. Already weakened, they'll need food and Fenthaza will want sacrifices. Exploit this by setting ambushes for their scouting parties. If they number 4 or 5 attack them with double that amount. Fenthaza will figure out this method eventually but hopefully it will drive her to make a mistake. Perhaps she will send out a small army for hunting parties or even attack your defenses, which I believe would hold. What we cannot do is launch a head on assault on their temple. It is too vast, full of dangerous creatures and corridors that would create natural choke points and contains far too many yuan-ti. When we escaped we saw too many bodies to be numbered and the river within their cave is also home to terrible beasts that could slaughter 15-20 before falling. To kill the hunter we must become hunters ourselves." Tempest says and then bows respectfully having said his peace on the matter. He'd take a step back and give the floor to anyone else who wishes to speak.
(Agreed! You're killing it Foof! Making me nervous for April.)
Ellis was thankful for the food, having a little before going to sleep. After what felt like the best sleep he has had in so long, he woke up along with the others to breakfast. Then Seresh came and told them that their leader wants to meet with them to discuss how to use the opportunity that they had created. He would follow her and the others to a building where everyone is in a circle and in the center was an older man along with now Seresh and Elia before he addressed them. He thanked them and then asked to hear their take on the conflict and if they got any information about Fenthasa's plans. Luckily Tempest explained everything and talked about what they should do to win, nodding and agreeing with him. He thought about Xopal, knowing that it might not be much or even useful but figured that everyone should know as he steps forward and bows. "She does have an ally, a fellow Yuan-ti that knows how to work with plants and poisons, experimenting on the undead. He was able to create a poison that could hurt even undead and Yuan-ti, which was how we were able to weaken Slithotep enough to defeat him. But a concoction like that would surely kill a regular person, so it would be best not to get too close or be hit by Yuan-ti weapons in case Fenthaza has him make more of the concoction and coat any number of their weapons in it by the time we go to strike." Ellis would say to them all, bowing before stepping back and letting others speak as well.
Rawk will listen intently as the powerful group members speak and bob her head vigorously as Tempest speaks of going on the offensive. Maybe this is the push Dom-Gar needed she thought to herself. She'd always wanted to stick it to the yuan-ti but her father would always say no. He'd occasionally let her accompany him on scouting missions but now, with a chance at victory, she knew he'd have to let her go... or at least she hoped he'd let her go.
She'd look over to her father to gauge his opinion on the subject and find him staring straight at her. He understood her so well and could see her excitement. With a slow slight cock of his head and intense glare she'd immediately quit bobbing and stand at attention stoically knowing her father was not intrigued or amused by her enthusiasm. She'd avert her gaze and look to the other leaders hoping to find some sort of assent in their countenance of Tempest's plans.
As Tempest speaks, you hear a general mumble of approval, and Quirin sits back, nodding his head slightly in agreement. You notice Jaron nodding vigorously - whatever he may have felt towards Tempest yesterday is at least in abeyance for now, as he seems focused on the new strategy.
When Ellis speaks, the background noise is one of disquiet, though not of fear.
After a moment Quirin sits forward. When he speaks he is not loud, but his voice carries to everyone.
"A clever strategy, one that has much to commend it." there is a chorus of agreement from the surrounding villagers "however, we feel there is perhaps one strike we can make against the Yuan-ti while their patrols are absent, while they are still divided."
He pauses for a moment,and you all feel the expectant hush descend on the village. Rawk, you would probably get a sense of what he is going to suggest in the moments before he speaks again.
"Near 30 years ago the Yuan-ti stole the Rutan's Heart from us. Some of you here fought on that day, and made the cost great to them." he looks around at some of the older villagers, and at Rawk's father "but now it lies corrupted, vomiting forth unnatural abominations that keep us weak, guarded by the Lingering Shadow."
At the mention of that name, there is a hush that descends on the villagers. But also an excitement, a breathless pause as they listen. Elia and Seresh both nod, exchanging quick whispers with the other council members, though Rawk's father looks surprised.
"The route to Dom-Sorn lies open, let us strike a blow against the Yuan-ti they will not easily recover from. And strengthen our whole people in the process!"
The village explodes into noise, excitement, fear and hope all confused into one.
Kanush suddenly speaks up, his voice cutting through the noise.
"Like everyone, with all my heart, I would want Dom-Sorn freed and the Lingering Shadow banished. We perhaps have the numbers now to do it, though at what cost? But the Yuan-ti's fortress remains garrisoned. They would follow our warriors and destroy them."
Perhaps to your surprise Jaron speaks up "I agree," there is only the slightest catch in his voice as he says this "it is to risky."
Quirin smiles and leans forward more "But we would not send our army to attack Dom-Sorn. We had considered a diversionary attack on the fortress, but I think... Tempest isn't it.. strategy is wise. We will send the bulk of our warriors to raid the Yuan-ti outposts, keep the attention of the Fortress garrison... and if possible lure them out a little. Meanwhile, we will send a hunting party to infiltrate Dom-Sorn, and banish the Shadow not by brute strength alone, but a focused attack!"
Before I go on, is there anything any of your characters want to interject / comment on?
Tempest, humbled by the approval of his plan was still a bit confused at the vigor from the crowd at the mention of Dom-Sorn. He was not familiar with this location or who/ what the Rutan's heart is. He would smile but have a slight sense of confusion across his face. He'd wait for the crowd's fervor to die down a bit before taking a step forward and saying as politely as he could.
"Yes... Tempest is correct. Thank you. I apologize for my being unaware and mean no offense but what is this Dom-Sorn that you speak of and what is the history behind it? While I cannot speak for my companions I am willing to aid in this endeavor but would like to know more before fully committing to something." he bows and returns to his place, half expecting to feel food being thrown at him for asking such as question.
Rawk will look at her father as Quirin talks and make sure he is okay. She knew it was a sore subject for her father and hoped it would not dissuade him from allowing her to fight. She'd watch as the group of escapees would look confused at the mention of Dom-Sorn and contemplate saying something but refrain, knowing her father would not be pleased if she spoke up now. Those within the circle had the floor not everyone standing around the outer edge. So she waited patiently.
Erro... you have vaguely heard the mention of a "Lingering Shadow" in connection to Dendar, but anything more than that eludes you.
Rawk, as you watch your father you see a look of consternation on his face which he is trying hard to mask. You can tell that he seems to have been the only one on the council not let in on these plans. You could make an insight check if you wanted to see if you can read more from the situation...
Quirin pauses at Tempest's question.
"Of course, I am sorry these are all so familiar to our people, I forgot how confusing this may be. Dom-Sorn was the center of our nation, the home of Rutan's Heart. The heart itself was - is - a powerful artifact found by Rutan himself, our founder. Though some say it actually contains the Soul of Rutan, after a bargain he struck with the gods to continue watching over us after his death. For centuries it's power suffused the forest around for miles, encouraging the trees and plants to grow and flourish and in the grove it was kept in, the sap of the trees there could be used to provide relief and healing to those in need."
As he speaks there is almost a mournful sigh that passes through the villagers.
"The Yuan-ti hated it. Even when they made the sun dim, this darkness could not penetrate the blessing the heart gave out. And so, the local Yuan-ti put aside their eternal squabbles and disputes and launched an attack on the city. It was a terrible, bloody day and the Yuan-ti payed a high price. But Dom-Sorn fell." he pauses, his voice thick with emotion, and you see many of the villagers round openly weeping at this recounting of the story.
"Then, then they..." his voice falters "they took the many captives they had gained, took them to the grove of Rutan. Then slaughtered them all in one of their foul rituals. By all accounts it cost them much of their resources as well, but they were able to summon a terrible servant of Dendar, the creature known as the Lingering Shadow."
The crowd is silent now, and you can feel the anger and tension in the air. "The Lingering Shadow somehow corrupted the heart. No longer did it heal, but poisoned. No longer did it nurture, but taint. The dead were turned into mockeries of life, and other abominations would erupt forth from that place now of Shadow."
"We were thus doubly wounded. We had lost our Heart, and constantly weakened by the abominations that leak from within the fallen city. As heavy had the losses of the Yuan-ti been, we had been dealt a mortal blow. Their strength recovered, ours weakened. They treated us like cattle, to be farmed when slaves or sacrifices were needed."
There is a long silence "But the return of the sun has weakened them in turn. Somehow, the Lingering Shadow needs a constant supply of sacrifices to maintain it's hold. As the Yuan-ti have struggled more to fulfill this need, they have built up a terrible trade with Slavers and pirates who provide the sacrifices from their raids, and in turn are given the terrible poison that the corrupted heart now bleeds. I do not pretend to know the details, but this seems much sought by the evil creatures of this world."
He sits back finally, seemingly drained by this painful recounting.
"Is there anything more you would know at this moment?" he asks
"I am sorry to have troubled you with reliving this nightmare. I will do all I can to aid in this endeavor and remove this scourge that corrupts the world. All I wish to know is of what aid I can be?" Tempest says with a humble bow and will return to his position besides his comrades. Internally his blood would begin to boil at the thought of such a horrific circumstance. He loved all things natural and this foul magic was wholly unnatural and desperately needed to be destroyed.
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Rawk will excitedly hop and fly across the ground between each building speaking quickly. "This one is currently empty. Maybe it could be one of yours if you decide to stay. This one in the Blacksmith shop, he's pretty nice. He made my axe for me. This one stores some of the crops that Elia grows...." and continues on until they reach the guest structure. "And this one I like to call our the Dom-Tavern.... so how did you guys escape the temple? How many yuan-ti did you kill on the way?" she chirps with a spark of curiosity in her eye as she perches on one of the beds and waits patiently for a response.
Despite her childlike enthusiasm, Rawk is more than fully mature in Aarakocra years. As she flutters about the village you catch closer glimpses of her curves and features when she pauses to talk. Her eagle like head, wings and clawed feet display her avian heritage but her torso and legs down to her first knee are quite similar to a humans minus all the feathers. You assume her excitement is due to living in this small village and guess she doesn't get out much.
"We found ourselves in a pit with an iron grate above us. They had some kind of spell dampening device setup in the room we were confined to and we triggered it. Alerted, our guard took us to Fenthasa for punishment but we were able to impress Fenthasa and she allowed us to work as slaves rather than be sacrificed for that day at least. We each did our demeaning job and used it as an opportunity to learn the layout of the temple and create an escape plan. We were able to disable the spell dampening device and gain an advantage over our guards. We then made our way though the temple and using a magic circle were transported to Slithotep's chambers. We fought for what seemed like an eternity but were victorious. After Daner cut of Slithotep's head we left his chambers and made our way to the cave where there was an underground river. Using the yuan-ti's canoes we set off down the river and narrowly avoided death from large terrible beasts that inhabited the water." Tempest pauses thinking to himself about how lucky the had been. "I'm not sure how many we killed. It all was a bit of a blur. Perhaps one of the others remembers."
((Whoops, sorry for my delay! A period of business. All my spare time spent washing my hands :p))
Erro, still fascinated with Rawk, will keep pace and nearly match the enthusiasm of Rawk as she shows off the buildings and pipes out explanations of this and that. Erro will also listen with great interest and amazement at the story of the four companions in the Yuan-ti temple. He couldn’t believe his ears.
Once they are settled in, Erro, being extremely curious and much less exhausted than the rest, would peek his head outside of the door and start to poke around to see what there was to see. Not in a covert way, but open and wandering, if he was permitted to do so. He would not overstep his bounds, but he would struggle to realize when he had done so.
"Really? I would've chopped her head off too. You guys must be pretty smooth talkers to convince a yuan-ti to do that. We have some pretty big beasts out here in the jungle too... smaller annoying ones mostly though." Rawk replies focused in on every word spoken, her head bobbing up and down slightly for the duration. It would cock to the side anytime something surprised her in the recantation. Rawk would wait patiently to see if anyone else had something to say or was just going to rest then head back to the canopy to see if her father had returned. "Well I should probably go check to make sure my dad returned from patrol. If you need anything just yell for Rawk... or one of the other villagers, or just yell."
When/ if her father returns, she'd tell him all about the new strangers and their stories. She'd fly around the village canopy and occassionally... (quite often) look over the guest center and watch. When she returned home her father would have to settle her down and urge her to sleep. Rawk would nest and find it hard to sleep from excitement but eventually find rest eager to watch events unfold the following day.
Ellis had looked around the small town, seeing that it looks like they are on hard times as he thought of how his town had been like that before he was able to make money for them. They got to the guest building as Rawk asked them how they escaped the temple and how many yuan-ti they had killed. He nodded as Tempest explained how they had escaped but couldn't remember exactly how many they had killed though. He nodded as Rawks told them to yell if they need anything, yawning. Ellis was exhausted after everything that they all had gone through, really wanting to get some sleep. "We should rest up now that we're somewhere safe and secure. It's been a long day." he had said to everyone, choosing a bed next to Tahvo. If the group wants to go to sleep, then Ellis would lay down and soon fall asleep. But if not, he'll stay awake with the group for any more discussion among them.
"Much appreciated Rawk. Before you go, hand these out to anyone who's hungry. They'll only need one per person." Tempest replies and will use the 2 remaining 1st level slots to cast Goodberry creating 20 berries and hand them to Rawk carefully. Then he'll smile to himself watching the beautiful birdlike creature flutter away and yawn stretching out his arms. "I agree Ellis." Tempest will lie down on his bed placing his bag under his head as a pillow and fall asleep.
Erro spends some time wandering around the village. He is met with a reserved curiosity, nothing hostile but neither are people swarming him. Mostly folks are focusing on whatever work they are doing; tending their gardens, crafting clothes, baskets and tools. Towards the center of the village he finds a larger, domed stone structure. Intricate carvings surround a strong wooden door. Two guards polite but firmly indicate that this place is not for him to enter. As he walks, he gets a nasty surprise when several small creatures, looking like mini versions of the Rippers they encountered, run by near him. These have distinct feathers all over their bodies, and would look like birds if not for the lack of a beak, and the dexterous looking arms ending in sharp claws. After his initial scare he sees these two pounce on a mouse, eating it up in seconds. A little girl runs out after them, and picks one up giggling. Erro surmises that here, these mini-Rippers are more like cats, across between pets and mousers to the villagers.
He realises that the village is completely surrounded by the protective thicket of magically-animated plant life they had come through which gives some sense of security. He is again left with impression of decline... people are struggling, and the population is clearly less than it was. The Yuan-ti have taken their toll. Onelast thing he sees that interests him is a more wild part of the village, nearby the 'wall'. This looks like a wild Grove, and the trees and thickets are dense enough that he cannot see in,nor is there an obvious path. Unless he wouldlike to explore anything specific more, he can return to the others if he wishes a rest.
Back in the Guest place, Darion nods wearily at the others "I'm glad there is somewhere better to rest. Before I can lie down though, I'm going to spend a little time with my prize." he waves the spellbook he found and sits down, carefully discharging the traps harmlessly. Though he does not posses the materials to transcribe spells at the moment, he will start to study them with the aim of doing this eventually.
Daner nods at the group, mutters about being tired and goes to lie down. As dusk approaches, a group of villagers come in with a simple meal and water for the party. The meal is a medley of dried meats, fruits and vegetables which though not exotic is tasty enough.
Shortly after this, Rawk would notice her father and his scout party returning. When her father sees her he will come over and embrace Rawk, and he has clearly been in battle. He is limping, and there is blood on his feathers.
"Don't worry, hatchling," he says gruffly "A Yuan-ti patrol we asked a few questions of. It's odd, the Yuan-ti seem to be heading back to their temple. We even found some that seemed to have been killed by other Yuan-ti! They still have the sense to keep a presence in that damned fort of theirs... but the jungle is suddenly clearer of them."
After Rawk has explained about the strangers, her father looks pleased "well, some good news at last. Perhaps this civil war of theirs opens up a chance for us! But for now, I need to report then rest...."
If there is anything else you want to do let me know, otherwise you are all free to take a long rest.
In the morning, after having breakfast brought to you Seresh comes and finds you.
"I hope you are all rested. Our Leader would meet with you four, as leaders of the escape..." she gestures to Darion, Daner, Ellis and Tempest "we are trying to decide how to best use the opportunity your actions seem to have given us."
Rawk and her father are also both invited to attend... Indeed Rawk is specifically asked to attend,and her father looks protective and worried at that...
Is there anything you guys want to do / say?
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
Tempest will thank the villagers for their hospitality and eat a little of the food but try not to deplete their reserves. He'll awaken early in the morning refreshed and ready for the day, agreeing to meet with the others but adding "You should consider including Erro. While not being imprisoned with us, he has proven himself a capable fighter. I still leave that choice to you but wanted to give my support."
((It’s been hard for me to post the last week, but I wanted to say, foofaspoon, you are doing an amazing job! Immersive and delightful, and not even doing it for a book like I did. I enjoy the experience and appreciate you putting it on for us!))
((Thank you Brad :) ))
Seresh frowns a little at Tempest's suggestion, then abruptly nods "The rest of your companions are still clearly needing time to heal and recuperate. We are in need of strong fighters, I think." She nods at Erro "please, if you would accompany me?"
She will lead the group out, taking them through the village which seems strangely deserted. Darion looks around, his natural suspicion roused by this. However after a few short minutes they arrive at the round stone building Erro found last night. Several hundred of the villagers stand around in a circle. In the centre is an open ground, and some chairs are laid out. The largest in the center sits an older man, his body scared from long-healed wounds. His hair is long and grey, and his eyes are shrewd and thoughtful.
Seresh takes the chair next to him, gesturing for the party to wait, just inside the open area. Sitting on the chief's other side is Elia who gives a friendly nod to the party, though she has a strange, slightly strained look on her face. Two other humans, who you do not recognise, occupy two of the other seats.
Rawk, you and your father have similarly made your way to the council. He walks proudly in, taking the remaining seat near the Leader, though you notice his leg still clearly hurts him.
The man in the middle addresses the original party of four, though casts a look at Erro too.
"I am Quirin, Leader of the Dom-gar. We have much to thank you for, in helping our proud - if foolish - Hunter to escape the Yuan-ti," he gestures to Kanush in the crowd who smiles at you "not to mention the slaying of the monster Slithotep and causing such welcome disruption to the Snake-fanciers."
As he pauses, you notice that Jaron is also in the crowd, and at the chief's mention of Kanush he looks strangely torn, discomforted as if he can't work out what to think.
"So before we go further it would be useful to hear if you have a take on this conflict within the Yuan-ti?" continues Quirin "Did you manage to glean from Fenthasa anything about her plans? Seresh cautions us that she may be a more deadly threat than Slithotep in the long run."
Seresh nods "Her cunning is matched only by her cruelty. Slithotep was a brute. She is all snake."
She then pauses, and looks at you all expectantly.
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
Erro enjoys his walk around the village, off-put as he was at first by the pet rippers. Erro is saddened by the signs of decline, which reminded him of his home. Those who resisted slowly ebbed away until the corrupt forces partnered with the Yuan-ti. Who knows what these people could contribute to the world if not for the brutal circumstances?
Erro gives a nod at Tempest's confidence in him. "As far as I am concerned, my honor demands that I owe you all a life debt. You can count on me." Erro later attempts to chat with his new compatriots, but most of them are likely already asleep as exhausted as they are. Erro takes out a small, tarnished lamp from a pouch and ritualistically polishes it off, though the tarnish never goes away. He does so until he dozes off to sleep himself.
The next day, at the village meeting, Erro is all ears, excited to hear what is happening, but disappointed that it looked as if he was going to be going off to war already. A weakened Yuan-ti hive didn't sound so bad; maybe he'd been in worse scapes, though this Fenthaza sounded bad. Erro doesn't have anything to report of the temple as he wasn't there. (Bradley will remind you that Fenthaza was a true believer. She sought to find a way to summon forth Dendar the Night Serpent again, while Slithotep became obsessed with obtaining martial/military might for himself. You learned something about Dendar returning through somewhere in the Peaks of Flame... it has been like 7 months since we started.. may have gotten buried!)
Tempest will take a step forward, bow then standing back up say, "She is wise and meticulous. Her dedication to her religion makes her even more dangerous. She has beguiled many and will stop at no end to accomplish her goals. In regards to the temple, it may still be in turmoil but I doubt her smooth tongue or sadistic nature would allow the fighting to continue this long. Regardless, they have been weakened. I do not know to what extent but if there was a time to deal a blow to the nearby yuan-ti, it would be soon." Tempest pauses to think and reflects on the temple, its many rooms, corridors and vast armory. He recalls the vast number of yuan-ti beyond the large double doors and the huge beasts from the river. He thinks back to his time alone in the forest, how he had to deal with predators and how he hunted prey then continues.
"In my opinion the best way to damage the yuan-ti now is to win by attrition. Already weakened, they'll need food and Fenthaza will want sacrifices. Exploit this by setting ambushes for their scouting parties. If they number 4 or 5 attack them with double that amount. Fenthaza will figure out this method eventually but hopefully it will drive her to make a mistake. Perhaps she will send out a small army for hunting parties or even attack your defenses, which I believe would hold. What we cannot do is launch a head on assault on their temple. It is too vast, full of dangerous creatures and corridors that would create natural choke points and contains far too many yuan-ti. When we escaped we saw too many bodies to be numbered and the river within their cave is also home to terrible beasts that could slaughter 15-20 before falling. To kill the hunter we must become hunters ourselves." Tempest says and then bows respectfully having said his peace on the matter. He'd take a step back and give the floor to anyone else who wishes to speak.
(Agreed! You're killing it Foof! Making me nervous for April.)
Ellis was thankful for the food, having a little before going to sleep. After what felt like the best sleep he has had in so long, he woke up along with the others to breakfast. Then Seresh came and told them that their leader wants to meet with them to discuss how to use the opportunity that they had created. He would follow her and the others to a building where everyone is in a circle and in the center was an older man along with now Seresh and Elia before he addressed them. He thanked them and then asked to hear their take on the conflict and if they got any information about Fenthasa's plans. Luckily Tempest explained everything and talked about what they should do to win, nodding and agreeing with him. He thought about Xopal, knowing that it might not be much or even useful but figured that everyone should know as he steps forward and bows. "She does have an ally, a fellow Yuan-ti that knows how to work with plants and poisons, experimenting on the undead. He was able to create a poison that could hurt even undead and Yuan-ti, which was how we were able to weaken Slithotep enough to defeat him. But a concoction like that would surely kill a regular person, so it would be best not to get too close or be hit by Yuan-ti weapons in case Fenthaza has him make more of the concoction and coat any number of their weapons in it by the time we go to strike." Ellis would say to them all, bowing before stepping back and letting others speak as well.
Rawk will listen intently as the powerful group members speak and bob her head vigorously as Tempest speaks of going on the offensive. Maybe this is the push Dom-Gar needed she thought to herself. She'd always wanted to stick it to the yuan-ti but her father would always say no. He'd occasionally let her accompany him on scouting missions but now, with a chance at victory, she knew he'd have to let her go... or at least she hoped he'd let her go.
She'd look over to her father to gauge his opinion on the subject and find him staring straight at her. He understood her so well and could see her excitement. With a slow slight cock of his head and intense glare she'd immediately quit bobbing and stand at attention stoically knowing her father was not intrigued or amused by her enthusiasm. She'd avert her gaze and look to the other leaders hoping to find some sort of assent in their countenance of Tempest's plans.
(Thank you all :) )
As Tempest speaks, you hear a general mumble of approval, and Quirin sits back, nodding his head slightly in agreement. You notice Jaron nodding vigorously - whatever he may have felt towards Tempest yesterday is at least in abeyance for now, as he seems focused on the new strategy.
When Ellis speaks, the background noise is one of disquiet, though not of fear.
After a moment Quirin sits forward. When he speaks he is not loud, but his voice carries to everyone.
"A clever strategy, one that has much to commend it." there is a chorus of agreement from the surrounding villagers "however, we feel there is perhaps one strike we can make against the Yuan-ti while their patrols are absent, while they are still divided."
He pauses for a moment,and you all feel the expectant hush descend on the village. Rawk, you would probably get a sense of what he is going to suggest in the moments before he speaks again.
"Near 30 years ago the Yuan-ti stole the Rutan's Heart from us. Some of you here fought on that day, and made the cost great to them." he looks around at some of the older villagers, and at Rawk's father "but now it lies corrupted, vomiting forth unnatural abominations that keep us weak, guarded by the Lingering Shadow."
At the mention of that name, there is a hush that descends on the villagers. But also an excitement, a breathless pause as they listen. Elia and Seresh both nod, exchanging quick whispers with the other council members, though Rawk's father looks surprised.
"The route to Dom-Sorn lies open, let us strike a blow against the Yuan-ti they will not easily recover from. And strengthen our whole people in the process!"
The village explodes into noise, excitement, fear and hope all confused into one.
Kanush suddenly speaks up, his voice cutting through the noise.
"Like everyone, with all my heart, I would want Dom-Sorn freed and the Lingering Shadow banished. We perhaps have the numbers now to do it, though at what cost? But the Yuan-ti's fortress remains garrisoned. They would follow our warriors and destroy them."
Perhaps to your surprise Jaron speaks up "I agree," there is only the slightest catch in his voice as he says this "it is to risky."
Quirin smiles and leans forward more "But we would not send our army to attack Dom-Sorn. We had considered a diversionary attack on the fortress, but I think... Tempest isn't it.. strategy is wise. We will send the bulk of our warriors to raid the Yuan-ti outposts, keep the attention of the Fortress garrison... and if possible lure them out a little. Meanwhile, we will send a hunting party to infiltrate Dom-Sorn, and banish the Shadow not by brute strength alone, but a focused attack!"
Before I go on, is there anything any of your characters want to interject / comment on?
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
Erro is not a learned man, but he will wrack his brain to see if any of these items rings a bell:
History: 14
Religion: 19
Tempest, humbled by the approval of his plan was still a bit confused at the vigor from the crowd at the mention of Dom-Sorn. He was not familiar with this location or who/ what the Rutan's heart is. He would smile but have a slight sense of confusion across his face. He'd wait for the crowd's fervor to die down a bit before taking a step forward and saying as politely as he could.
"Yes... Tempest is correct. Thank you. I apologize for my being unaware and mean no offense but what is this Dom-Sorn that you speak of and what is the history behind it? While I cannot speak for my companions I am willing to aid in this endeavor but would like to know more before fully committing to something." he bows and returns to his place, half expecting to feel food being thrown at him for asking such as question.
Rawk will look at her father as Quirin talks and make sure he is okay. She knew it was a sore subject for her father and hoped it would not dissuade him from allowing her to fight. She'd watch as the group of escapees would look confused at the mention of Dom-Sorn and contemplate saying something but refrain, knowing her father would not be pleased if she spoke up now. Those within the circle had the floor not everyone standing around the outer edge. So she waited patiently.
Erro... you have vaguely heard the mention of a "Lingering Shadow" in connection to Dendar, but anything more than that eludes you.
Rawk, as you watch your father you see a look of consternation on his face which he is trying hard to mask. You can tell that he seems to have been the only one on the council not let in on these plans. You could make an insight check if you wanted to see if you can read more from the situation...
Quirin pauses at Tempest's question.
"Of course, I am sorry these are all so familiar to our people, I forgot how confusing this may be. Dom-Sorn was the center of our nation, the home of Rutan's Heart. The heart itself was - is - a powerful artifact found by Rutan himself, our founder. Though some say it actually contains the Soul of Rutan, after a bargain he struck with the gods to continue watching over us after his death. For centuries it's power suffused the forest around for miles, encouraging the trees and plants to grow and flourish and in the grove it was kept in, the sap of the trees there could be used to provide relief and healing to those in need."
As he speaks there is almost a mournful sigh that passes through the villagers.
"The Yuan-ti hated it. Even when they made the sun dim, this darkness could not penetrate the blessing the heart gave out. And so, the local Yuan-ti put aside their eternal squabbles and disputes and launched an attack on the city. It was a terrible, bloody day and the Yuan-ti payed a high price. But Dom-Sorn fell." he pauses, his voice thick with emotion, and you see many of the villagers round openly weeping at this recounting of the story.
"Then, then they..." his voice falters "they took the many captives they had gained, took them to the grove of Rutan. Then slaughtered them all in one of their foul rituals. By all accounts it cost them much of their resources as well, but they were able to summon a terrible servant of Dendar, the creature known as the Lingering Shadow."
The crowd is silent now, and you can feel the anger and tension in the air. "The Lingering Shadow somehow corrupted the heart. No longer did it heal, but poisoned. No longer did it nurture, but taint. The dead were turned into mockeries of life, and other abominations would erupt forth from that place now of Shadow."
"We were thus doubly wounded. We had lost our Heart, and constantly weakened by the abominations that leak from within the fallen city. As heavy had the losses of the Yuan-ti been, we had been dealt a mortal blow. Their strength recovered, ours weakened. They treated us like cattle, to be farmed when slaves or sacrifices were needed."
There is a long silence "But the return of the sun has weakened them in turn. Somehow, the Lingering Shadow needs a constant supply of sacrifices to maintain it's hold. As the Yuan-ti have struggled more to fulfill this need, they have built up a terrible trade with Slavers and pirates who provide the sacrifices from their raids, and in turn are given the terrible poison that the corrupted heart now bleeds. I do not pretend to know the details, but this seems much sought by the evil creatures of this world."
He sits back finally, seemingly drained by this painful recounting.
"Is there anything more you would know at this moment?" he asks
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
"I am sorry to have troubled you with reliving this nightmare. I will do all I can to aid in this endeavor and remove this scourge that corrupts the world. All I wish to know is of what aid I can be?" Tempest says with a humble bow and will return to his position besides his comrades. Internally his blood would begin to boil at the thought of such a horrific circumstance. He loved all things natural and this foul magic was wholly unnatural and desperately needed to be destroyed.