Ellis was happy to see that they made it to a less dangerous part of the jungle without trouble before hearing Kanush, glad to hear that his people are welcoming but feeling bad that their power is weakening. He hoped that this Elia can help them out, how she is also a druid like Tempest as he kept following along.
((sorry, will not be able to post today, however we have a new member of the group - Lillightnin - who will be joining shortly in your quest to escape the Yuan-ti!))
Kanush steps towards the dense foliage, and mutters something under his breath. Abruptly in front of him the branches, vines and even the tangling roots all seem to part a little, folding back and away in a strangely beautiful sight. In a few moments a narrow path has opened up in front of Kanush. He turns to the group and gestures to enter.
"Welcome to Dom-Gar, we will be safe here and can think about how to get you all home."
He leads you through into the passage (if you are willing). This strange, narrow walkway feels dark as the twisted foliage above and to your sides blots out the sun. You can see thorny vines entwined on either side, branches that seem to curl and grasp (though not in the path you walk) and the ground looks treacherous with roots and holes to trip and slow anything foolish enough to stray from the path. Tempest would recognise the clear signs of druidic magic that animates the flora around. Darion would notice in addition the odd flicker of Arcane energy running up and down some of the vines, though it seems weak and tepid somehow.
"Do not worry, these defences have kept out the Yuan-ti and the more dangerous animals that roam this forest. While I guide you through, you are safe."
It takes a minute or two to walk through the path and abruptly it ends, coming out between two free standing stone pillars the height of a human, vines entwined around them. You look on a strangely calm domestic scene. This is clearly still part of the forest, though the trees are much less dense, clear paths weaving between them and the sun shines cleanly to the ground. There are houses here - not rude or simple things, but well-built wooden dwellings that blend into the natural world around them. It has a slight Elven feel, though these are clearly the work of humans mainly. The houses look clean and well built but do not have Elven rhetorical flourishes in their design. By each of them there are little cultivated gardens growing herbs and vegetables, clearly well tended. There are about a dozen of these dwellings in view, though you imagine that the village is much more extensive hidden further in the forest. You also catch a glimpse of a well-made stone building a bit away, and notice that there are several clearly abandoned building in various states of decay among the lived in homes.
Various villagers stop and stare curiously, and a half dozen armed individuals stand before you. The relax a little when they see Kanush and nod a greeting. Behind them you see a welcoming party arrive, consisting of three people. Two are women, an older lady who looks the party over with astute eyes and a much younger woman in simple garb, who nonetheless holds herself confidently, casually flicking a tangled patch of dark hair from her eyes. The third is a man, armed with a lethal looking spear and fine leather armour. He has a strange, uncertain look on his face as he sees Kanush, as if he can't quite decide how he should react.
The young woman smiles "It is good to see you Kanush - and you return with a strange assembly indeed!" She peers over at you all, paying particular attention to Tempest "Can it be that you have all escaped from the snake-worshipers?"
Erro’s heart begins to race as he takes in the wonderful and miraculous scene of peace. Anxiety grows in him with each curious look and with each word exchanged. Erro was used to rolling with the punches of misfortune, but he did not know how to handle himself in the midst of blessing. Being on the edge of hope was more anxious than being an inch from the jaws of death. The latter had become passé. Erro did not know the customs and he was concerned about screwing something up, and the obvious tension between Kanush and this other man was disconcerting.
Erro tries desperately to avert his gaze from the young woman flicking her, not wanting to cause any offense. WIS saving throw: 11
Tempest smiles as they pass through the thick passageway, admiring the beauty of druidic craftsmanship. He almost wants to turn back to walk through it again but stops himself and chooses to settle on looking out at the quaint layout of the village. Though tired, Tempest smiles throughout the conversation and bows politely before speaking. "Yes. Through our combined strength we were able to escape from their temple and with the help of Kanush, we made it safely through the jungle. Thank you for allowing us to enter this beautiful place." Tempest will motion to Kanush as he mentions him and bow again to signify the end of his response. He was hopeful that they would be willing to allow them to stay for a while. He was very interested in speaking with this older female who he assumes is Elia.
No-one seems to particularly spot Erro's discomfort, and he manages to mask things well. The welcoming group look at him curiously, but no more so than anyone else.
The younger woman smiles encouragingly at Tempest's words, while the older woman speaks up "It is rare for prisoners to be able to escape, even rarer for so many to make it out alive! If nothing else, it is good to think of those evil creatures thwarted"
The young man looks like he is judging what Tempest has been saying, still not sure how to play things "So, Kanush, after foolishly getting caught, did you escape yourself, or did your companions have to rescue you?" The barb is clear in his voice, and the younger woman frowns at this but doesn't say anything. Instead she looks quizzical, waiting to see what more of the story emerges.
Ellis followed Kanush and the others through the passage, so thankful for Kanush and knowing that for now they are safe from danger here. Three people came over, speaking to Kanush and asking if they had escaped from the Yuan-ti. He nodded back as Tempest explained what happened, hearing the younger woman talk about how rare it is for prisoners to escape, especially so many. But the man started to ask if Kanush had escaped himself or if they had to rescue him, thinking. "He got out of his binds first, but chose to help the rest of us so that we could all escape together. We couldn't have gotten out of there if it weren't for him, we owe a lot to him." Ellis spoke up as he bowed deeply, still wearing the mantle Kanush had given him back in the temple.
"And who are you to question him? Could you have accomplished the same thing, or had a courage to take charge of a group of strangers rather than easily escape alone like a coward? You should rejoice at the return of one of your own, now chastise them. If you ask me, Eldath willed he be captured so that he might aid us in escaping. Without his knowledge of the jungle we would have surely been eaten by one of the many large or small beasts that roam this area." Tempest replied bluntly. For the first time the group saw Tempest's composure change from the calm gentle person into a raging storm for which he was aptly named. He was tired... He didn't truly wish to start a fight but for someone to blatantly insult the person responsible for their return to safety was too much for his mental safeguards to stop.
The young man flushes at Tempest's rebuke, the expression on his face difficult to read as if caught between conflicting emotions. There is an awkward moment, then Kanush speaks up "Tempest speaks kindly of me, but the truth is none of us would have made it out without these four brave souls." he gestures towards Tempest, Ellis, Darion and Daner. There is a murmur of agreement from the rest of the group.
"Even better than just escaping," Kanush continues "Slithotep is dead at our hands, his head removed and the Yuan-ti have broken out into fighting between his followers and those of Fenthasa. Whoever wins, they will be weakened."
There is a chorus of surprised gasps from the other villagers around, then the older woman speaks "Fenthasa will win." she says this flatly "she is cunning and patient, and in her own way a more formidable foe than Slithotep. Still, we may have a window of opportunity." she tails of thoughtfully.
"It is good to see you Kanush, we had all feared for you - even Jaron!" says the younger woman, glancing with a slight smile at the other man "and it is good to welcome these formidable strangers. We do not have much to share in these darker times, but can offer you refuge for the moment. I am Elia, the tree-singer of the Dom-Gar."
"And I am Seresh, adviser on the Elder's Council," the older woman speaks now "we will find a place for you to rest and heal up, and tomorrow our Leader Quirin will wish to speak with you all. And what might be your names?"
Tempest continues to glare at the man and will wait until he breaks eye contact first before he'll look to Elia and Seresh speaking calmly again. "Thank you for your hospitality. I am Tempest, druid of the moon and a child of Eldath. What Kanush says of Slithotep and Fenthasa is true, though I doubt the in-fighting will continue much longer." Tempest will try to catch the eye of Elia and make a small druidic message in the dirt using Mold Earth.
Perched in one of the trees overlooking the entrance of these strangers, Rawk watches and listens patiently to the banter between groups. Her dark green head with golden accents cocks side to side and bobs slightly as she inspects each of the group members. At the mention of Slithotep's death she'll perk up and ruffle her feathers excitedly. "These new comers must be quite strong to defeat him. Perhaps..."she chirps quietly to herself with her dull black beak before Elia and Seresh speak. As Tempest speaks she crouches and begins to lean forward listening intently. Her over excitement causes her to lose her balance and she instinctively reacts spreading her wings and swooping down from her perch to conceal her blunder.
As she glides in from the east you can make out the Dark green and brown feathers that cover her wings and back aiding her in blending in with the jungle canopy. The golden feathers that streak down the center of her back and across the top of her wings shimmer as the light touches them. She lands off to the side with some other villagers and takes a few steps in front of them so you can truly see how short she is standing only 4 foot 10 tall. The feathers that cover the curves of her chest and legs are a dull tan with emerald highlights. Despite her small stature, enlarged biceps, quads and a large menacing greataxe tell you she's not like any other Aarakocra you've encountered if you have seen any. "Did Slithotep beg for his life?" she asks aloud in a chirpy voice that somewhat startles her. She quickly feels all eyes turn to her and she quickly bows and adds, 'I am Rawk. A warrior of Dom-Gar." she looks over to Seresh her eyes portraying fear and guilt as if to say, "Sorry and Help me... "
Elia raises an eyebrow when she sees Tempest's message, and gives an almost imperceptible nod.
At that point, everyone looks up startled as Rawk makes an entrance, crashing to the ground. Kanush smiles at this new arrival "he did not beg, if I recall. He was arrogant to the end. It is good to see you Rawk."
Seresh gives Rawk a slightly exasperated look, but there is fondness on her stern face nonetheless. To cover Rawk's discomfort she asks "These stranger's that have helped Kanush have struck a blow against the Yuan-ti - has your father's party returned yet? It would be interesting to hear their report in light of what has happened!"
"You too Kanush. Figures, the pompous... " she says happily but trails off hearing Seresh's voice , "Not yet Seresh. I've been watching for them from the canopy as usual but they should return shortly. Would you like me to return to keep an eye out?" Rawk chirps in reply and takes an awkward step back after bowing again while her head continues to bob slightly.
Kanush turns to Seresh "Perhaps Rawk can take our friends to one of the larger Guest places, I would want a chance to discuss with you both what happened - and then a chance to rest" he pauses and smiles at Rawk "I think she would also like the chance to listen to some of their stories!"
Serash nods in agreement, then turns to the rest of the party "but it would be good to know our other guests..."
Darion and Daner will introduce themselves, Darion looking reserved and cautious. Always beware of people being too friendly - it usually means they want something.
The rest of the group introduces themselves, and Tahvo looks particularly nervous and overawed. Darion says "If it is possible, we perhaps need to find a way to get Tahvo home. He has been brave, but I think he is missing his family."
Tahvo gives a nod, clearly holding back tears at that point. Serash and Elia both look softly at him, and even Jaron looks sympathetic "We will do our best to get you home, Tahvo" says Elia "but you may have to stay with us a little until we can do it safely."
((I'll wait a bit and give everyone who wants to a chance to interact / talk to the NPCs before I move on!))
Ellis listened as Kanush ended up saying that they would have never made it out with them and mentioning that Slithotep is dead. Seresh, Elia, Jaron introduced themselves as they said that they would give them a place of refuge to rest up and heal in and tomorrow their leader wanted to speak to them before asking for their names. Everyone else had started introducing themselves, Ellis about to do so when suddenly a bird woman swoops down and comes forward, introducing herself as she spoke with Kanush. "I'm Ellis, just a simple bard." he had finally said as he bowed politely to everyone with a smile. He had heard Darion talk about getting Tahvo home, seeing how he wanted to cry and feeling so terrible. So he would gently hug Tahvo, rubbing his back. "It's okay. We'll make sure that you can get home to your family." Ellis would calmly say to reassure the little boy, thinking of his mother and wanting to go back home to his village as well.
Erro looks on, wide-eyed in horror, as if he is looking into the jaws of one of those great lizards, as he observes the exchange between Tempest and Jaron. Without even meaning to he takes a side-step away from Tempest as he lays it on. ((Erro doesn't like this at all, but I like it; go go Tempest!)) To come this far to be skewered by potentially friendly spears was too dreadful a thought. He bit his tongue and said an internal prayer to Tymora.
Erro is relieved when Rawk appears before them, breaking the tension. Erro is bewildered by the sight. A bird person! How many kinds of people were there in this country? Erro forgets about his fears for a moment as he is overcome with excitement at meeting such an interesting creature. Erro wears a broad and awed smile as the aarakorcra bows and displays its coat of many colors, neverminding the menacing greataxe (what wasn't menacing around here anyway?)
When asked to introduce himself, Erro bows deeply, nearly kissing the ground, "It is I, Erro Calimpour, explorer, pilgrim, charter of the Seven Seas of Sand, son of the True Calimshan, mortal enemy of the Yuan-ti, purveyor of beauties, and your most humble guest and servant." Onlookers wouldn't be able to tell if Erro was being sincere to his culture, or if he was merely attempting vain flattery. "I am indeed most excited and privileged to have been welcomed into your wonderful home," Erro adds, still bowing with his face near the ground, partially in an attempt to keep from looking upon the young woman so that he wouldn't endanger anything.
When he feels etiquette permits it, which is an awkwardly long time, he stands back up and looks around, seeing what else there is to see. He still looks with amazement upon Rawk, not knowing how to handle interacting with this being.
Tempest looks over to the birdlike female with half amazement at the the natural beauty of such a creature. He'd smile as she spoke and give a small nod at her enthusiasm.
He'd wait until the others from his group spoke and turn to look at Erro quizzically as he gave his introduction trying to unravel the complexity of all the words. "Well met Rawk." he says with a short half bow. He decided he immediately like Rawk. Her demeanor, dislike of the yuan-ti, friendliness to Kanush and general awkwardness made such an impression on Tempest he chuckled to himself.
The storm within him calmed slightly but his eyes slowly moved and continue to stare at Jaron with a polite smile.
Serash, Elia and Joran acknowledge the rest of you with friendly smiles - though Joran avoids looking at Tempest, his expression difficult to read.
"So welcome again. Rawk, if you could lead them to the Guest place, we'll get some refreshments sent over."
With that, the welcome party takes their leave, Kanush going with them. He gives a friendly smile to the group "I will see you all later"
Tahvo seems more comforted with Ellis' support, and the rest of the party relaxes a little.
"It is good to feel safe again!" mutters Zilla "a good nights sleep out of that cursed jungle would be good!"
Pottery Shard gives a nervous laugh, and hums a little ditty under his breath. Lomar looks around curiously and says to Darion "did you notice the arcane discharge coming in? I wonder if they are having problems with their magics. Interesting to see a blend of magical traditions"
Darion nods, mutters a polite reply but doesn't commit further. As Lomar turns away Darion shoots him a slightly suspicions look.
I'll assume the party leaves with Rawk (though feel free to carry on interactions). Rawk would know where to lead them. As the party proceeds through this place, they see all around the same blend of simple, but artfully made, wooden dwellings with the occasional stone structure. These seem to be granaries, meeting places and smithies for the most part. There are a lot of villagers around who stare curiously. Though there are no obvious signs of starvation, it does not look like food is plentiful either. You are struck again by empty dwellings, and the impression of harder times gets stronger - of a people in decline.
Overall you get the feeling this is a small town, reasonably populous but not as large as the city where Darion grew up, for example. After a 10 minute walk, you arrive at a domed, circular stone building. Through a wooden door you go into a comfortable, dry interior. Simple pallet beds line the walls - comfy but basic. There are a few chairs and tables around, and a large stone fire-pit in the centre. Zilla and Pottery Shard immediately choose a couple of beds and collapse down on them. Lomar sits a bit away, pulling out some paper he seems to have managed to pilfer from the Yuan-ti. Tahvo to chooses a bed, but makes sure he sticks near Darion and Ellis.
Darion, Daner, Ellis, Tempest and Rawk are left together.
Ellis was happy to see that they made it to a less dangerous part of the jungle without trouble before hearing Kanush, glad to hear that his people are welcoming but feeling bad that their power is weakening. He hoped that this Elia can help them out, how she is also a druid like Tempest as he kept following along.
((sorry, will not be able to post today, however we have a new member of the group - Lillightnin - who will be joining shortly in your quest to escape the Yuan-ti!))
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
((Good deal!!))
(Thanks for the invite everyone. Looking forward to playing with you all soon!)
Kanush steps towards the dense foliage, and mutters something under his breath. Abruptly in front of him the branches, vines and even the tangling roots all seem to part a little, folding back and away in a strangely beautiful sight. In a few moments a narrow path has opened up in front of Kanush. He turns to the group and gestures to enter.
"Welcome to Dom-Gar, we will be safe here and can think about how to get you all home."
He leads you through into the passage (if you are willing). This strange, narrow walkway feels dark as the twisted foliage above and to your sides blots out the sun. You can see thorny vines entwined on either side, branches that seem to curl and grasp (though not in the path you walk) and the ground looks treacherous with roots and holes to trip and slow anything foolish enough to stray from the path. Tempest would recognise the clear signs of druidic magic that animates the flora around. Darion would notice in addition the odd flicker of Arcane energy running up and down some of the vines, though it seems weak and tepid somehow.
"Do not worry, these defences have kept out the Yuan-ti and the more dangerous animals that roam this forest. While I guide you through, you are safe."
It takes a minute or two to walk through the path and abruptly it ends, coming out between two free standing stone pillars the height of a human, vines entwined around them. You look on a strangely calm domestic scene. This is clearly still part of the forest, though the trees are much less dense, clear paths weaving between them and the sun shines cleanly to the ground. There are houses here - not rude or simple things, but well-built wooden dwellings that blend into the natural world around them. It has a slight Elven feel, though these are clearly the work of humans mainly. The houses look clean and well built but do not have Elven rhetorical flourishes in their design. By each of them there are little cultivated gardens growing herbs and vegetables, clearly well tended. There are about a dozen of these dwellings in view, though you imagine that the village is much more extensive hidden further in the forest. You also catch a glimpse of a well-made stone building a bit away, and notice that there are several clearly abandoned building in various states of decay among the lived in homes.
Various villagers stop and stare curiously, and a half dozen armed individuals stand before you. The relax a little when they see Kanush and nod a greeting. Behind them you see a welcoming party arrive, consisting of three people. Two are women, an older lady who looks the party over with astute eyes and a much younger woman in simple garb, who nonetheless holds herself confidently, casually flicking a tangled patch of dark hair from her eyes. The third is a man, armed with a lethal looking spear and fine leather armour. He has a strange, uncertain look on his face as he sees Kanush, as if he can't quite decide how he should react.
The young woman smiles "It is good to see you Kanush - and you return with a strange assembly indeed!" She peers over at you all, paying particular attention to Tempest "Can it be that you have all escaped from the snake-worshipers?"
What do you guys want to do?
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
Erro’s heart begins to race as he takes in the wonderful and miraculous scene of peace. Anxiety grows in him with each curious look and with each word exchanged. Erro was used to rolling with the punches of misfortune, but he did not know how to handle himself in the midst of blessing. Being on the edge of hope was more anxious than being an inch from the jaws of death. The latter had become passé. Erro did not know the customs and he was concerned about screwing something up, and the obvious tension between Kanush and this other man was disconcerting.
Erro tries desperately to avert his gaze from the young woman flicking her, not wanting to cause any offense. WIS saving throw: 11
Tempest smiles as they pass through the thick passageway, admiring the beauty of druidic craftsmanship. He almost wants to turn back to walk through it again but stops himself and chooses to settle on looking out at the quaint layout of the village. Though tired, Tempest smiles throughout the conversation and bows politely before speaking. "Yes. Through our combined strength we were able to escape from their temple and with the help of Kanush, we made it safely through the jungle. Thank you for allowing us to enter this beautiful place." Tempest will motion to Kanush as he mentions him and bow again to signify the end of his response. He was hopeful that they would be willing to allow them to stay for a while. He was very interested in speaking with this older female who he assumes is Elia.
No-one seems to particularly spot Erro's discomfort, and he manages to mask things well. The welcoming group look at him curiously, but no more so than anyone else.
The younger woman smiles encouragingly at Tempest's words, while the older woman speaks up "It is rare for prisoners to be able to escape, even rarer for so many to make it out alive! If nothing else, it is good to think of those evil creatures thwarted"
The young man looks like he is judging what Tempest has been saying, still not sure how to play things "So, Kanush, after foolishly getting caught, did you escape yourself, or did your companions have to rescue you?" The barb is clear in his voice, and the younger woman frowns at this but doesn't say anything. Instead she looks quizzical, waiting to see what more of the story emerges.
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
Ellis followed Kanush and the others through the passage, so thankful for Kanush and knowing that for now they are safe from danger here. Three people came over, speaking to Kanush and asking if they had escaped from the Yuan-ti. He nodded back as Tempest explained what happened, hearing the younger woman talk about how rare it is for prisoners to escape, especially so many. But the man started to ask if Kanush had escaped himself or if they had to rescue him, thinking. "He got out of his binds first, but chose to help the rest of us so that we could all escape together. We couldn't have gotten out of there if it weren't for him, we owe a lot to him." Ellis spoke up as he bowed deeply, still wearing the mantle Kanush had given him back in the temple.
"And who are you to question him? Could you have accomplished the same thing, or had a courage to take charge of a group of strangers rather than easily escape alone like a coward? You should rejoice at the return of one of your own, now chastise them. If you ask me, Eldath willed he be captured so that he might aid us in escaping. Without his knowledge of the jungle we would have surely been eaten by one of the many large or small beasts that roam this area." Tempest replied bluntly. For the first time the group saw Tempest's composure change from the calm gentle person into a raging storm for which he was aptly named. He was tired... He didn't truly wish to start a fight but for someone to blatantly insult the person responsible for their return to safety was too much for his mental safeguards to stop.
The young man flushes at Tempest's rebuke, the expression on his face difficult to read as if caught between conflicting emotions. There is an awkward moment, then Kanush speaks up "Tempest speaks kindly of me, but the truth is none of us would have made it out without these four brave souls." he gestures towards Tempest, Ellis, Darion and Daner. There is a murmur of agreement from the rest of the group.
"Even better than just escaping," Kanush continues "Slithotep is dead at our hands, his head removed and the Yuan-ti have broken out into fighting between his followers and those of Fenthasa. Whoever wins, they will be weakened."
There is a chorus of surprised gasps from the other villagers around, then the older woman speaks "Fenthasa will win." she says this flatly "she is cunning and patient, and in her own way a more formidable foe than Slithotep. Still, we may have a window of opportunity." she tails of thoughtfully.
"It is good to see you Kanush, we had all feared for you - even Jaron!" says the younger woman, glancing with a slight smile at the other man "and it is good to welcome these formidable strangers. We do not have much to share in these darker times, but can offer you refuge for the moment. I am Elia, the tree-singer of the Dom-Gar."
"And I am Seresh, adviser on the Elder's Council," the older woman speaks now "we will find a place for you to rest and heal up, and tomorrow our Leader Quirin will wish to speak with you all. And what might be your names?"
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
Tempest continues to glare at the man and will wait until he breaks eye contact first before he'll look to Elia and Seresh speaking calmly again. "Thank you for your hospitality. I am Tempest, druid of the moon and a child of Eldath. What Kanush says of Slithotep and Fenthasa is true, though I doubt the in-fighting will continue much longer." Tempest will try to catch the eye of Elia and make a small druidic message in the dirt using Mold Earth.
The message will say, "We have much to discuss."
Perched in one of the trees overlooking the entrance of these strangers, Rawk watches and listens patiently to the banter between groups. Her dark green head with golden accents cocks side to side and bobs slightly as she inspects each of the group members. At the mention of Slithotep's death she'll perk up and ruffle her feathers excitedly. "These new comers must be quite strong to defeat him. Perhaps..." she chirps quietly to herself with her dull black beak before Elia and Seresh speak. As Tempest speaks she crouches and begins to lean forward listening intently. Her over excitement causes her to lose her balance and she instinctively reacts spreading her wings and swooping down from her perch to conceal her blunder.
As she glides in from the east you can make out the Dark green and brown feathers that cover her wings and back aiding her in blending in with the jungle canopy. The golden feathers that streak down the center of her back and across the top of her wings shimmer as the light touches them. She lands off to the side with some other villagers and takes a few steps in front of them so you can truly see how short she is standing only 4 foot 10 tall. The feathers that cover the curves of her chest and legs are a dull tan with emerald highlights. Despite her small stature, enlarged biceps, quads and a large menacing greataxe tell you she's not like any other Aarakocra you've encountered if you have seen any. "Did Slithotep beg for his life?" she asks aloud in a chirpy voice that somewhat startles her. She quickly feels all eyes turn to her and she quickly bows and adds, 'I am Rawk. A warrior of Dom-Gar." she looks over to Seresh her eyes portraying fear and guilt as if to say, "Sorry and Help me... "
Elia raises an eyebrow when she sees Tempest's message, and gives an almost imperceptible nod.
At that point, everyone looks up startled as Rawk makes an entrance, crashing to the ground. Kanush smiles at this new arrival "he did not beg, if I recall. He was arrogant to the end. It is good to see you Rawk."
Seresh gives Rawk a slightly exasperated look, but there is fondness on her stern face nonetheless. To cover Rawk's discomfort she asks "These stranger's that have helped Kanush have struck a blow against the Yuan-ti - has your father's party returned yet? It would be interesting to hear their report in light of what has happened!"
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
"You too Kanush. Figures, the pompous... " she says happily but trails off hearing Seresh's voice , "Not yet Seresh. I've been watching for them from the canopy as usual but they should return shortly. Would you like me to return to keep an eye out?" Rawk chirps in reply and takes an awkward step back after bowing again while her head continues to bob slightly.
Kanush turns to Seresh "Perhaps Rawk can take our friends to one of the larger Guest places, I would want a chance to discuss with you both what happened - and then a chance to rest" he pauses and smiles at Rawk "I think she would also like the chance to listen to some of their stories!"
Serash nods in agreement, then turns to the rest of the party "but it would be good to know our other guests..."
Darion and Daner will introduce themselves, Darion looking reserved and cautious. Always beware of people being too friendly - it usually means they want something.
The rest of the group introduces themselves, and Tahvo looks particularly nervous and overawed. Darion says "If it is possible, we perhaps need to find a way to get Tahvo home. He has been brave, but I think he is missing his family."
Tahvo gives a nod, clearly holding back tears at that point. Serash and Elia both look softly at him, and even Jaron looks sympathetic "We will do our best to get you home, Tahvo" says Elia "but you may have to stay with us a little until we can do it safely."
((I'll wait a bit and give everyone who wants to a chance to interact / talk to the NPCs before I move on!))
Do you like my Boots of Flying?
Ellis listened as Kanush ended up saying that they would have never made it out with them and mentioning that Slithotep is dead. Seresh, Elia, Jaron introduced themselves as they said that they would give them a place of refuge to rest up and heal in and tomorrow their leader wanted to speak to them before asking for their names. Everyone else had started introducing themselves, Ellis about to do so when suddenly a bird woman swoops down and comes forward, introducing herself as she spoke with Kanush. "I'm Ellis, just a simple bard." he had finally said as he bowed politely to everyone with a smile. He had heard Darion talk about getting Tahvo home, seeing how he wanted to cry and feeling so terrible. So he would gently hug Tahvo, rubbing his back. "It's okay. We'll make sure that you can get home to your family." Ellis would calmly say to reassure the little boy, thinking of his mother and wanting to go back home to his village as well.
((Welcome, Lillightnin, great to have you!!))
Erro looks on, wide-eyed in horror, as if he is looking into the jaws of one of those great lizards, as he observes the exchange between Tempest and Jaron. Without even meaning to he takes a side-step away from Tempest as he lays it on. ((Erro doesn't like this at all, but I like it; go go Tempest!)) To come this far to be skewered by potentially friendly spears was too dreadful a thought. He bit his tongue and said an internal prayer to Tymora.
Erro is relieved when Rawk appears before them, breaking the tension. Erro is bewildered by the sight. A bird person! How many kinds of people were there in this country? Erro forgets about his fears for a moment as he is overcome with excitement at meeting such an interesting creature. Erro wears a broad and awed smile as the aarakorcra bows and displays its coat of many colors, neverminding the menacing greataxe (what wasn't menacing around here anyway?)
When asked to introduce himself, Erro bows deeply, nearly kissing the ground, "It is I, Erro Calimpour, explorer, pilgrim, charter of the Seven Seas of Sand, son of the True Calimshan, mortal enemy of the Yuan-ti, purveyor of beauties, and your most humble guest and servant." Onlookers wouldn't be able to tell if Erro was being sincere to his culture, or if he was merely attempting vain flattery. "I am indeed most excited and privileged to have been welcomed into your wonderful home," Erro adds, still bowing with his face near the ground, partially in an attempt to keep from looking upon the young woman so that he wouldn't endanger anything.
When he feels etiquette permits it, which is an awkwardly long time, he stands back up and looks around, seeing what else there is to see. He still looks with amazement upon Rawk, not knowing how to handle interacting with this being.
Tempest looks over to the birdlike female with half amazement at the the natural beauty of such a creature. He'd smile as she spoke and give a small nod at her enthusiasm.
He'd wait until the others from his group spoke and turn to look at Erro quizzically as he gave his introduction trying to unravel the complexity of all the words. "Well met Rawk." he says with a short half bow. He decided he immediately like Rawk. Her demeanor, dislike of the yuan-ti, friendliness to Kanush and general awkwardness made such an impression on Tempest he chuckled to himself.
The storm within him calmed slightly but his eyes slowly moved and continue to stare at Jaron with a polite smile.
Serash, Elia and Joran acknowledge the rest of you with friendly smiles - though Joran avoids looking at Tempest, his expression difficult to read.
"So welcome again. Rawk, if you could lead them to the Guest place, we'll get some refreshments sent over."
With that, the welcome party takes their leave, Kanush going with them. He gives a friendly smile to the group "I will see you all later"
Tahvo seems more comforted with Ellis' support, and the rest of the party relaxes a little.
"It is good to feel safe again!" mutters Zilla "a good nights sleep out of that cursed jungle would be good!"
Pottery Shard gives a nervous laugh, and hums a little ditty under his breath. Lomar looks around curiously and says to Darion "did you notice the arcane discharge coming in? I wonder if they are having problems with their magics. Interesting to see a blend of magical traditions"
Darion nods, mutters a polite reply but doesn't commit further. As Lomar turns away Darion shoots him a slightly suspicions look.
I'll assume the party leaves with Rawk (though feel free to carry on interactions). Rawk would know where to lead them. As the party proceeds through this place, they see all around the same blend of simple, but artfully made, wooden dwellings with the occasional stone structure. These seem to be granaries, meeting places and smithies for the most part. There are a lot of villagers around who stare curiously. Though there are no obvious signs of starvation, it does not look like food is plentiful either. You are struck again by empty dwellings, and the impression of harder times gets stronger - of a people in decline.
Overall you get the feeling this is a small town, reasonably populous but not as large as the city where Darion grew up, for example. After a 10 minute walk, you arrive at a domed, circular stone building. Through a wooden door you go into a comfortable, dry interior. Simple pallet beds line the walls - comfy but basic. There are a few chairs and tables around, and a large stone fire-pit in the centre. Zilla and Pottery Shard immediately choose a couple of beds and collapse down on them. Lomar sits a bit away, pulling out some paper he seems to have managed to pilfer from the Yuan-ti. Tahvo to chooses a bed, but makes sure he sticks near Darion and Ellis.
Darion, Daner, Ellis, Tempest and Rawk are left together.
Is there anything you want to do?
Do you like my Boots of Flying?