Nadia takes a moment to breathe after that trek up the stairs, leaning forward a bit with her hands on her knees for support. "Gotta work on my cardio more, I swear..." With a final inhale, she moves towards the door left agape, her back pressed against one side, while she peeks her head in to get a look inside, if possible.
Nadia peers into the tower, trying to remain hidden. Inside she sees an empty vestibule about 20dt long and wide. At the opposite end is a thin, translucent blue curtain which flaps in the breeze. Beyond that she can see a 100-foot-high hexagonal chamber containing a giant-sized wooden table and stone chair. Dangling from the ceiling by iron chains are six crystal spheres which light up the chamber. The room appears to be empty, but looking up you notice there is a 20ft wide circular hole in the ceiling that seems to lead to a second floor though there is no obvious method of gaining access. While you are looking around you see movement from the 2and floor, as a 24ft tall giant slowly descends to the ground as if levitating. The cloud giant has wind swept white hair and a wispy beard. He wears a billowy purple wizard's robe adorned with stars and carries with him a beautiful golden staff. Once he lands he seems to inspect himself muttering and talking to himself somewhat loudly. No unseemly stains it seems. So many robes and yet it's so hard to find something decent to wear when entertaining guests. I do hope they arrive soon. Oh I do hope I landed in the right spot come to think of it. Should I wear a hat? Not sure I have one that goes with this robe. This will simply just have to do. Come on Zephyros, calm down I'm sure they won't care too much about your clothes.
Nadaar is a bit winded by the time the group reaches the top, but not to the point of warranting a complaint. And whereas most may be worried about falling over, he climbed with an ease befitting someone far too used to such lack of forethought to safety. However, hesitant to enter if only out apparent fussiness judging by his own mutterings about "bringing gifts" and "Would it be rude?", the Dragonborn eventually growls out an "Enough", straightens out his outer vest, then makes his way straight on at a casual pace inside.
"My word! I knew your people to have warranted the name, but not quite to this extent!" He calls out upon eventually seeing the giant, appearing ever bit as astounded as he sounded at the time. Which was a great deal of astounding! "Oh, but do forgive this little one for the outburst. I could not help myself."Nadaar chuckles boisterously, and hopefully having gotten the giant's attention fully by then. "The name is Nadaar, my very large and well dressed acquaintance. Pretell, did you lower those stairs expecting company? Or intended to come down yourself out of curiosity? If the latter, should I head back down and start again with a proper welcome and greeting?"
The whole while Nadaar is speaking with all the bravado of a casual acquaintance, the cog wheels in his head are burning the midnight oil trying to recall anything -- ANYTHING at all about the kind of giant before him. For he heard of the war of giants and dragons, if only out the indirect influences to Dragonborn's. The rest, well...
The giant looks a bit startled at first when Nadaar enters the room but quickly composes himself and gives a wide smile as Nadaar introduces himself. Ah hello there friend! It is a pleasure to meet you Nadaar of the small folk. My name is Zephyros. And yes I was expediting guests. Well I was expecting you, or rather someone with your name. Though I thought I had more time before you made the climb I do so hope my dress is appropriate it's been so long since I've entertained any of the small folk. Ah but I'm expecting two more. One Zack Fair and Nadia Selwyn. I don't suppose you're already acquainted?
Zephyros speaks is a wispy tone of voice that sounds almost like the gale of wind going through a tunnel. But his voice is still gentle and kind. Unfortunately Nadaar try as you might you don't know much about giant culture or their species much at all other than their animosity towards dragons which thankfully doesn't seem to extend to dragonborn, or at least not in this instance.
Nadia refrained from grabbing Nadaar by the collar and pulling him back, bit it was already too late and he had introduced himself to the giant. Yet.. he wasn't crushed by a rock and instead was greeted rather warmly, the elf raising an eyebrow to Zack (had he been around), curious to see what would come of this. But before she could sit idly by, Zephyros had called her name, along with Zack's, the ranger blinking in surprise. Slowly, she shuffles into the entrance, giving the giant a meek wave.
"Uh, hi. I'm Nadia Selwyn, um... How did you know my name?"
It seemed that even Zack couldn't make it all the way up without a bit of trouble. Probably on par with Nadaar. Winded but otherwise fine, outside of needing a bit more air. As they reached the top of this massive structure, he would pat Nadia on the back with a bit of a smile but would take just a moment to look out over the land from this high. It wasn't often one got this sort of vista.... But that ended not more than a few moments after, whe Nadaar had charged ahead.
It felt a bit ironic but Zack was mentally chiding Nadaar for 'running ahead.' What if ... was all he managed before Nadaar just began speaking to no one he could see, but listening to the conversation that followed only made him furrow his brow more as he began to look in, while Nadaar was a mouse in the cats cage, so to speak. Zack was always willing to give someone a chance, and not judge everyone by their races actions. Much like how he was willing to give Kella the benefit of the doubt before.
And once the exchanges were over and the giant had called them all by name... He shifted around the corner, raising one hand with his eyes closed, before opening them. And once he saw the giant for how big it really was he would admit.. caster or not.. he was impressed. Just then an idea struck him.... A way to determine if the giant was only pretending to be peaceable or if it truly was. As for now, after the giant attacks.... he was skeptical at best. Yo, I'm Za.. whoa.. Ok... For all that you seem to know about us.. In human culture.... it's.. customary for the .. I suppose in this case, Host, would be the right word to be dressed in no more than their smallclothes.... so as to show humility and respect for their guests. Hell you can even go without those but you're a bit over-dressed for this...'He would say, looking somewhat aloof, like the giant might have just offended his culture or something.... but trying to be 'nice' about it....
"Moreso Nadaar of the Golden Tongue, but close enough."Nadaar smiled back at the giant, even as thoughts became a storm of new questions about the giant. He did not dare hope or fear his family's involvement; especially upon naming of his compatriots. And yet....
'Stop that...'He shook his head, dispelling the line of thought. Before he can fully gather his wits, Nadia and Zack step up to introduce themselves, if albeit meekly in one case and grudgingly in another. Any contentment afterwards to just listen immediately gets thrown out the door by Zack's declaration. One even he entertained belief in before remembering a certain lady's nack for duplicity. Nevertheless, realizing then that the arrogance in his own step forward without 'discussion', Nadaar lets out a boisterously laugh and waves dismissively at Zack, before turning back to the giant.
"Don't mind him, Master Zephyros! He ran afoul of some giant rats the other day, you see. Nearly killed him they did! And between the concussion the night before that, and the magic -- which he is still learning to properly manage -- he's, well, the stress has been getting to him as of late. So please, I beg you, let's all keep our clothes on, okay? Right Zack!?"He turns back, giving Zack a tight 'I'm gonna ******* murder you in your sleep keep this up ya little shit!'kind of smile. Then its back to Zephyros with a more subdued, but still fairly broad smile. "Of course you perhaps already knew this, no? Being a great and wise diviner, clearly! Though funnily enough, I did hear goblins had that sort of thing in their culture going for them. So, it is likely where's picked that up. Hahahah!"
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Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
20
When Zack introduces himself and offers an absurd proposal to the cloud giant, Zephyros' face turns to one of mild horror. Not at the suggestion, but rather the thought that he might be offending his guests. Despite Nadaar's attempts to wave this behavior off as some sort of mental deficiency on Zack's part, this giant is clearly a bit eccentric as long as you use the term "a bit" liberally. Before Nadaar can even finish his sentence the Giant Wizard removes his robes and levitates them back up to the second floor, revealing his small clothes which are a tight fitting pair or of underpants in a matching purple with starts patter as the robes. The sight of a giant, in ALL of its glory, is not a pleasant one. I'm so sorry! As I've said it has been some time since I've treated with the small folk and your ways are a bit foreign to me. I do hope I have not offended! Ah but miss Nadia, you ask how I know of you and I'm sure you are all wondering the same. Well it is quite simple you see! You see in my investigations into the ordning I've been contacting powerful entities from other planes on what to do. They led me here, to find you three. I'm not sure how but you three are surely involved! Though I must not interfere, no that would potentially bring great doom to us all, but they said there would be no harm in contacting you this once and so I came! Now sure some failed castings of the spell I use to contact these extra planar entities have occasionally driven me mad I assure you they were all temporary bouts of madness which I have long since recovered from. Ah but it's so good to see small folk again, most other of my kind don't have much care for yours but I find you to be quite resourceful and talented especially when you put your minds to something. Ah but please have some tea I....don't have any cups your size so I'm afraid you'll have to go without. I'm also out of tea.
The giants words come out so fast that its almost impossible to keep up or interject and much of it makes no sense to most of you. That is assuming you paid attention given the spectacle in front of you.
The meek facade didn’t last long during the introductory once Zack spoke, and she would soon be seen face palming herself at the fighters little ‘joke’. She truly hoped that the giant would see through the deceit, hoping Nadaar’s words would hopefully dissuade him in listening to Zack, but when she looked up again to gauge his reaction, he was in his small clothes.
Both of her hands shot up to shield her eyes from the unsightly view, the elf quietly saying to herself, “Por favor, Dioses, ¿por qué? Creo que me voy a quedar ciega.” She turns her head a bit, glaring daggers at Zack. “You better have a good reason why you convinced him to do that, or so help me Gods I will beat you with a chancla when we’re out of here.”
Zack, had some trouble hiding his expression. Just barely clinging to his serious face as the giant complied with it all. He felt both amused and relieved. His little plan had worked, a little better than he'd expected, but the giant didn't seem 'all there.' so to speak either. In the end, it seemed it really was safe. And at that point, Zack visibly relaxed before finally just bursting out into laughter at the ridiculousness of the whole situation, not caring that Nadaar was disappointed, or that Nadia was a bit upset.
Haha.. ha.. haha..ha. his laughter dying down slowly before finally speaking I'm sorry Mr. Zephyros. But I have decieved you. It wasn't meant as an insult, nor as anythign else negative. But, you see, the town you just came to was recently attacked by giants. And I had to make sure you weren't in some way an enemy. You're very clearly a magic user of some.. potential, and even the youngest child knows that mages are possesed of many powerful items. So.. My intent was to determine if you too were an enemy or not. Had you chosen not to, i would have been more wary, but i'm pretty sure now that you're not here to deceive us.
So, again, sorry for my .. duplicity, but all things considered, I had to be sure.
And while we're on that topic.... Do you know why the giants attacked? Why they stole the nightstone from here? and other similar topics? Also, what brought you here aside form what you've said? what did you learn, and what can you tell us?
The whole while Zack is apologizing and Nadia is giving him a thorough tongue lashing, the Dragonborn is pinching the bridge his snout, and shakign his head with his eyes squeezed shut. He could not even form proper sentences without angrily muttering to himself. Even his curiosity about contact with other wordly entities could overcoming the deep self-loathing that grew in his heart for having continued his association with human. Even after time and time again, they've proven a stalwart ally in combat, but just... just too much in important social situations.
If it weren't for the fact that he half expected to get destroyed alongside Zack anyways for being too close in the next few seconds, he would've turned on the spot right there, and tried to leave the building. As things stood, he would continue to quietly lament and vent his frustrations until the giant spoke up once more.
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Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Zephyros looks a bit confused at first before a sudden realization strikes him. Ah! A bit of a joke then? Ah I see! Hahaha quite good yes yes. Um if you would excuse me just a moment. Just then he levitates up through the hole in the ceiling and onto the 2nd floor. He is only there a few moments before he comes back down now wearing the robe again but this time with a matching hat. Sorry about that. Ah but yes I had heard that some of my kin had attacked the village below. Just horrid, barbaric and just so unnecessary. But as I said many giants don't think much of small folk, not all of us think that way mind you but too many do unfortunately. And alas I'm not entirely sure why they attacked the town. Well clearly as you said they stole this...Nightstone...though I'm not entirely sure what that is I suspect they came to take it because they thought it might help them in some way. Ah this might require a but of history to fully explain but I doubt you have a few hundred years or so to study ancient Giant history. Well maybe your elven friend does but you two maybe not so much. But I will try to be brief. For those of you who do not know, we giants have a caste system in our society called the Ordning. At the top are the storm giants who are the biggest and strongest among our kind. At the very bottom are the hill giants, stupid creatures who are often cause more trouble than anything else. This cast system is enforced in part by everyone's willingness to keep to it but more importantly its enforced by the All Father. The All Father is chief among our gods, and our gods impose this caste system on us. This prevents fighting among the various races of my kind as well as providing order. However, for reasons I'm not entirely sure of yet, the Ordning has been broken and our gods silent. Now...well it's simply chaos. Many nobles among giant society have retreated to their homes and lairs, gathering their forces and trying to do whatever they can to put themselves at the top. As you can see by evidence of the town below, they do not care if small folk get hurt in the process. I believe my people are looking for artifacts they think may be relics of some import in regards to our history, but I know not for sure. But as I said it as been a bit chaotic, I worry that the small folk may retaliate against my kind, and between that and the infighting already occurring, it could be quite disastrous indeed. I have been using powerful magic to contact extraplaner entities to investigate ways to restore order. This brings are powerful and know much and contacting them takes a toll on ones body and mind, but they have led me here to you. You are involved somehow but to what extent I'm not sure. I simply came here to inform you of this. Unfortunately I have been warned against aiding further than this, as it could have unintended consequences. But there was no harm in telling you that you are about to be involved in the goings ons of giants. But as I said the details are obscure to me. But I trust you are up to the task...whatever that may be. Zephyros paces back and forth several times as he tries to explain, speaking almost a mile a minute with thoughts occasionally being jumbled or scattered but he finally explains the above. He looks back to you all like one oblivious to the weight he just dumped on your shoulders.
Nadaar remained in his own world well after Zephyros temporary departure. During which time, the Dragonborn's muttering came to a close, and is replaced instead by agitated pacing back and forth. Hearing Zephyros again, he slows to a standstill, slowly glances up to the giant, and then lets out a sigh of relief. "It as if we will get to see one more sunrise, my friend."He whispered one last time to Rillex before turning his full attention to the wizard.
A good thing too, seeing the blitz through the explanation. Nadaar daren't even break out his pocket book and pen to write just to keep up! "A... huh... A-a few questions, my very, very worried Zephyros, if you do not mind? Do you perhaps have a book that goes further into detail on this Ordnig? Preferable one already with translations. But if not, at least one you'd be willing to let one such as I copy from to study up over time. Secondly, if these unintended consequences are merely directed at ourselves -- and if we prove willing to accept them -- would you then at least being open to just... by happenstance, drop 'us' off where we are supposedly going to go anyways? Or at least, closer to Zack's hometown. Not to overstay your hospitality, but... it is a fair ways out of the way. And the sooner we go, the sooner we can help in this, uhm... apparently serious giant problem."
"Also -- purely out of curiosity, you see -- but, would it be considering interfering if... No, I've already asked too much."
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Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Zack was just barely able to keep up with what Zephyros was saying, the man speaking close to an auctioneers pace. To him, it seemed like the giant was basically here to say ''you're involved, that's all I can do for you." and he felt somewhat disappointed. It was nice to know that at-least this wasn't all random, he supposed, but as Zephy-boy spoke more, Zack began to pace himself, hands behind his back in 'attention' style. What Zack felt that Nadaar didn't realize, if the being had already decided to smite them, or.. try to, it would have done it regardless of what he did or didn't do.
When Nadaar finally made his proposal, it was at this point, that Zack had to butt in. I appreciate the sentiment Nadaar... but all things considered, after learning about all this, what we did learn, that is. It would be extremely selfish of me to ask for a personal favor like 'going home' if somehow the events around us involve us. He seemed a bit disappointed, and he had ceased his pacing. He was standing still now, his eyes looking mostly straight ahead at nothing in particular, but his vision was visibly downcast at the ground as he was deep in thought.
After a minute or so he finally added. I'll ask Morak to send a letter to them. It won't be the same, but.. at-least I can let them know that I'm still alive, and why I left when I did. He seemed about to add something as his mouth opened, then closed, whatever thought it had been, uncharacteristically vanishing in silence. His head finally rising, as he looks up to Zephyros, his expression serious. Well, you can't help us in where to go, but how about we pull a 'pippin' so instead, tell us where we shouldn't go if we seek to do anything about it. Since you wouldn't be pointing us in the right direction.
Zephyros thinks on Nadaars request even while Zack turns down the offer to return home. He seems to be lost in thought as he doesnt even realize Zack is deciding not to go home when he responds Yes yes I should be able to fly you to your friends home. I'm fairly certain that won't be considered interfering but I dare not risk it more than once so I can only offer to fly you this one time. Besides it's likely once I drop you off our paths may not cross for some time if ever. However if your friend wishes to go home I shall let you ride along with me just simply tell me where to go and we can be off in an instant!Zephyros then gives Zack an expecting look before he realizes that Zack had been talking. Oh, well you see I do not know where you should go or where you shouldn't go. And even if I did I dare not risk telling you for interfering too much could have unintended consequences for all of us. As I said, I simply came to give you a warning of sorts about your involvement in upcoming events. But the hows and wheres...these things are still obscure to me. Right now the only help I can offer is to provide you with a ride to a destination of your choice as your friend suggested. If not home then perhaps somewhere else. However that's all I can offer at the moment, perhaps in the future that may change but for now I simply cannot risk amy involvement that I'm not reasonably certain is safe.
Nadaar quirks a brow ridge at Zack, but would shrug afterwards. For as far as he was concerned, they'd end up where they'd need to be regardless of the direction or 'side quest'. "What is a pull a pippin?"He looks away, muttering to himself and tugging at his whiskers thoughtfully. He loses the trail of thought at Zephyros' reply. Which afterwards led him to look at Zack with a strained grin, "Well there ya go, Mr. Zack. We'd still need to send a message down to let them know of our plans at the very least. And given the vagaries of it all, it is more than likely that whatever choice we make, we'll find ourselves involved in all this regardless."
Nadaar looks askcance at that. "In fact, unless we wish to choose some city at random to go and warn, we... could go to... Waterdeep? As fairly large hub of activity as I've hard, there's bound to be a number of organizations to both warn about the impending trouble, and seek out for further guidance." He snorts and looks back to Zack. "Either which way, given the without further guidance or another happenstance encounter, the point stands.Unless..."He looks to Zphyros again. "If one were willing to accept the risks, might we speak with these higher power of yours? Beseech them directly for further guidance."
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Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Zephyros shakes his head sadly in the negative. Unfortunately the spell that I use to contact these entities only affects the caster. More so the spell is quite risky, failed attempts to cast can leave one...a bit muddled in the head haha. These entities also tend to reply in single word responses or vague metaphors. But perhaps more importantly, If I were to contact them on your behalf I fear that would constitute interference on my part. Fate is fate, to try and change that could be quite dangerous.
Despite being raised in an elvish household, where elvish could easily be spoken a mile a minute, Nadia struggled with keeping up with the giants words, she having to slowly process what in the heck he was saying during the moments the boys would speak. Even then, she would have to multitask in listening to them and what they were saying all the while backtracking on what the giant said. It kept her silent throughout, but eventually she caught up on the conversation and deciding on where to go.
She cups her chin in thought. "While Waterdeep is a good idea to go since, as you said, it's a large hub and there is a possibility of many organizations being about, but... with a city as large as it is, there's more than likely going to be a huge Zhentarim presence. While I know I said we're capable of handling them, I don't know how we would do if a hoard of them came after us if we walk down one of the many alleyways... I know they're still going to be on our tails no matter where we go, but there? I think we would just be better off waving our arms around in the town square saying 'Here we are Zhents, come and get us!'" The elf shakes her head. "I would rather go to Zack's home, but, well, this is a group decision. I'll follow along with what we decide as a team."
Zack couldn't help but feel... guilty? or some other similar emotion when all was said and done. initially he'd just wanted to go back for personal reasons, but after Zeph said what he said, he couldn't help but feel that his request was selfish at this point. But if where they were going had some level of inevitability to it.. But seeing as there was no true consensus... he finally said Then I guess we may as well drop by. And see where the wind takes us from there huh... Still, I can't help but feel like I'm just being selfish now. But I agree with Nadia, going into a place likely to be filled with them isn't the best idea.. And I mean, what are we gonna tell the 'good' organizations? that the Zhents are being bad? They'll just laugh and say 'what else is new' since.. without us knowing anymore details.... Not much we can tell them. And morak is already goign to be informign his friend to the north. But if we're gettign a free ride.... and it'll save us time, and all that. Then lets just get to it. I'm over at Daggerford, just outside town. The medium sized farm to the south-west about a mile out. How long does it take to fly?
Zephyros watches with interest as you all discuss what to do but clearly has no idea what you are talking about or what a Zhent is. However once a destination is mentioned he begs you to wait a moment as he levitates to the 2nd floor. You hear the shuffling of paper and some muttering before he yells down in a booming voice It should take about 3 and a half days! That is I'll be going around Daggerford to avoid scaring the locals so that will add about 12 hours or so to the trip. I'll drop you off a few miles off the road so we don't scare the people in town! We can leave whenever you're ready! Ah one more thing...I don't have any accommodations you people of your size so...you'll have to camp out on the first floor if you would!
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Nadia takes a moment to breathe after that trek up the stairs, leaning forward a bit with her hands on her knees for support. "Gotta work on my cardio more, I swear..." With a final inhale, she moves towards the door left agape, her back pressed against one side, while she peeks her head in to get a look inside, if possible.
Perception: 6
Stealth (if necessary): 23
Nadia peers into the tower, trying to remain hidden. Inside she sees an empty vestibule about 20dt long and wide. At the opposite end is a thin, translucent blue curtain which flaps in the breeze. Beyond that she can see a 100-foot-high hexagonal chamber containing a giant-sized wooden table and stone chair. Dangling from the ceiling by iron chains are six crystal spheres which light up the chamber. The room appears to be empty, but looking up you notice there is a 20ft wide circular hole in the ceiling that seems to lead to a second floor though there is no obvious method of gaining access. While you are looking around you see movement from the 2and floor, as a 24ft tall giant slowly descends to the ground as if levitating. The cloud giant has wind swept white hair and a wispy beard. He wears a billowy purple wizard's robe adorned with stars and carries with him a beautiful golden staff. Once he lands he seems to inspect himself muttering and talking to himself somewhat loudly. No unseemly stains it seems. So many robes and yet it's so hard to find something decent to wear when entertaining guests. I do hope they arrive soon. Oh I do hope I landed in the right spot come to think of it. Should I wear a hat? Not sure I have one that goes with this robe. This will simply just have to do. Come on Zephyros, calm down I'm sure they won't care too much about your clothes.
Nadaar is a bit winded by the time the group reaches the top, but not to the point of warranting a complaint. And whereas most may be worried about falling over, he climbed with an ease befitting someone far too used to such lack of forethought to safety. However, hesitant to enter if only out apparent fussiness judging by his own mutterings about "bringing gifts" and "Would it be rude?", the Dragonborn eventually growls out an "Enough", straightens out his outer vest, then makes his way straight on at a casual pace inside.
"My word! I knew your people to have warranted the name, but not quite to this extent!" He calls out upon eventually seeing the giant, appearing ever bit as astounded as he sounded at the time. Which was a great deal of astounding! "Oh, but do forgive this little one for the outburst. I could not help myself." Nadaar chuckles boisterously, and hopefully having gotten the giant's attention fully by then. "The name is Nadaar, my very large and well dressed acquaintance. Pretell, did you lower those stairs expecting company? Or intended to come down yourself out of curiosity? If the latter, should I head back down and start again with a proper welcome and greeting?"
The whole while Nadaar is speaking with all the bravado of a casual acquaintance, the cog wheels in his head are burning the midnight oil trying to recall anything -- ANYTHING at all about the kind of giant before him. For he heard of the war of giants and dragons, if only out the indirect influences to Dragonborn's. The rest, well...
Arcana: 6.
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
The giant looks a bit startled at first when Nadaar enters the room but quickly composes himself and gives a wide smile as Nadaar introduces himself. Ah hello there friend! It is a pleasure to meet you Nadaar of the small folk. My name is Zephyros. And yes I was expediting guests. Well I was expecting you, or rather someone with your name. Though I thought I had more time before you made the climb I do so hope my dress is appropriate it's been so long since I've entertained any of the small folk. Ah but I'm expecting two more. One Zack Fair and Nadia Selwyn. I don't suppose you're already acquainted?
Zephyros speaks is a wispy tone of voice that sounds almost like the gale of wind going through a tunnel. But his voice is still gentle and kind. Unfortunately Nadaar try as you might you don't know much about giant culture or their species much at all other than their animosity towards dragons which thankfully doesn't seem to extend to dragonborn, or at least not in this instance.
Nadia refrained from grabbing Nadaar by the collar and pulling him back, bit it was already too late and he had introduced himself to the giant. Yet.. he wasn't crushed by a rock and instead was greeted rather warmly, the elf raising an eyebrow to Zack (had he been around), curious to see what would come of this. But before she could sit idly by, Zephyros had called her name, along with Zack's, the ranger blinking in surprise. Slowly, she shuffles into the entrance, giving the giant a meek wave.
"Uh, hi. I'm Nadia Selwyn, um... How did you know my name?"
Athl flare: 14
Deception for joke: 21
It seemed that even Zack couldn't make it all the way up without a bit of trouble. Probably on par with Nadaar. Winded but otherwise fine, outside of needing a bit more air. As they reached the top of this massive structure, he would pat Nadia on the back with a bit of a smile but would take just a moment to look out over the land from this high. It wasn't often one got this sort of vista.... But that ended not more than a few moments after, whe Nadaar had charged ahead.
It felt a bit ironic but Zack was mentally chiding Nadaar for 'running ahead.' What if ... was all he managed before Nadaar just began speaking to no one he could see, but listening to the conversation that followed only made him furrow his brow more as he began to look in, while Nadaar was a mouse in the cats cage, so to speak. Zack was always willing to give someone a chance, and not judge everyone by their races actions. Much like how he was willing to give Kella the benefit of the doubt before.
And once the exchanges were over and the giant had called them all by name... He shifted around the corner, raising one hand with his eyes closed, before opening them. And once he saw the giant for how big it really was he would admit.. caster or not.. he was impressed. Just then an idea struck him.... A way to determine if the giant was only pretending to be peaceable or if it truly was. As for now, after the giant attacks.... he was skeptical at best. Yo, I'm Za.. whoa.. Ok... For all that you seem to know about us.. In human culture.... it's.. customary for the .. I suppose in this case, Host, would be the right word to be dressed in no more than their smallclothes.... so as to show humility and respect for their guests. Hell you can even go without those but you're a bit over-dressed for this...'He would say, looking somewhat aloof, like the giant might have just offended his culture or something.... but trying to be 'nice' about it....
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Counter Joke: 13.
"Moreso Nadaar of the Golden Tongue, but close enough." Nadaar smiled back at the giant, even as thoughts became a storm of new questions about the giant. He did not dare hope or fear his family's involvement; especially upon naming of his compatriots. And yet....
'Stop that...' He shook his head, dispelling the line of thought. Before he can fully gather his wits, Nadia and Zack step up to introduce themselves, if albeit meekly in one case and grudgingly in another. Any contentment afterwards to just listen immediately gets thrown out the door by Zack's declaration. One even he entertained belief in before remembering a certain lady's nack for duplicity. Nevertheless, realizing then that the arrogance in his own step forward without 'discussion', Nadaar lets out a boisterously laugh and waves dismissively at Zack, before turning back to the giant.
"Don't mind him, Master Zephyros! He ran afoul of some giant rats the other day, you see. Nearly killed him they did! And between the concussion the night before that, and the magic -- which he is still learning to properly manage -- he's, well, the stress has been getting to him as of late. So please, I beg you, let's all keep our clothes on, okay? Right Zack!?" He turns back, giving Zack a tight 'I'm gonna ******* murder you in your sleep keep this up ya little shit!' kind of smile. Then its back to Zephyros with a more subdued, but still fairly broad smile. "Of course you perhaps already knew this, no? Being a great and wise diviner, clearly! Though funnily enough, I did hear goblins had that sort of thing in their culture going for them. So, it is likely where's picked that up. Hahahah!"
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
20
When Zack introduces himself and offers an absurd proposal to the cloud giant, Zephyros' face turns to one of mild horror. Not at the suggestion, but rather the thought that he might be offending his guests. Despite Nadaar's attempts to wave this behavior off as some sort of mental deficiency on Zack's part, this giant is clearly a bit eccentric as long as you use the term "a bit" liberally. Before Nadaar can even finish his sentence the Giant Wizard removes his robes and levitates them back up to the second floor, revealing his small clothes which are a tight fitting pair or of underpants in a matching purple with starts patter as the robes. The sight of a giant, in ALL of its glory, is not a pleasant one. I'm so sorry! As I've said it has been some time since I've treated with the small folk and your ways are a bit foreign to me. I do hope I have not offended! Ah but miss Nadia, you ask how I know of you and I'm sure you are all wondering the same. Well it is quite simple you see! You see in my investigations into the ordning I've been contacting powerful entities from other planes on what to do. They led me here, to find you three. I'm not sure how but you three are surely involved! Though I must not interfere, no that would potentially bring great doom to us all, but they said there would be no harm in contacting you this once and so I came! Now sure some failed castings of the spell I use to contact these extra planar entities have occasionally driven me mad I assure you they were all temporary bouts of madness which I have long since recovered from. Ah but it's so good to see small folk again, most other of my kind don't have much care for yours but I find you to be quite resourceful and talented especially when you put your minds to something. Ah but please have some tea I....don't have any cups your size so I'm afraid you'll have to go without. I'm also out of tea.
The giants words come out so fast that its almost impossible to keep up or interject and much of it makes no sense to most of you. That is assuming you paid attention given the spectacle in front of you.
The meek facade didn’t last long during the introductory once Zack spoke, and she would soon be seen face palming herself at the fighters little ‘joke’. She truly hoped that the giant would see through the deceit, hoping Nadaar’s words would hopefully dissuade him in listening to Zack, but when she looked up again to gauge his reaction, he was in his small clothes.
Both of her hands shot up to shield her eyes from the unsightly view, the elf quietly saying to herself, “Por favor, Dioses, ¿por qué? Creo que me voy a quedar ciega.” She turns her head a bit, glaring daggers at Zack. “You better have a good reason why you convinced him to do that, or so help me Gods I will beat you with a chancla when we’re out of here.”
Zack, had some trouble hiding his expression. Just barely clinging to his serious face as the giant complied with it all. He felt both amused and relieved. His little plan had worked, a little better than he'd expected, but the giant didn't seem 'all there.' so to speak either. In the end, it seemed it really was safe. And at that point, Zack visibly relaxed before finally just bursting out into laughter at the ridiculousness of the whole situation, not caring that Nadaar was disappointed, or that Nadia was a bit upset.
Haha.. ha.. haha..ha. his laughter dying down slowly before finally speaking I'm sorry Mr. Zephyros. But I have decieved you. It wasn't meant as an insult, nor as anythign else negative. But, you see, the town you just came to was recently attacked by giants. And I had to make sure you weren't in some way an enemy. You're very clearly a magic user of some.. potential, and even the youngest child knows that mages are possesed of many powerful items. So.. My intent was to determine if you too were an enemy or not. Had you chosen not to, i would have been more wary, but i'm pretty sure now that you're not here to deceive us.
So, again, sorry for my .. duplicity, but all things considered, I had to be sure.
And while we're on that topic.... Do you know why the giants attacked? Why they stole the nightstone from here? and other similar topics? Also, what brought you here aside form what you've said? what did you learn, and what can you tell us?
Occassional Dungeon Master.
The whole while Zack is apologizing and Nadia is giving him a thorough tongue lashing, the Dragonborn is pinching the bridge his snout, and shakign his head with his eyes squeezed shut. He could not even form proper sentences without angrily muttering to himself. Even his curiosity about contact with other wordly entities could overcoming the deep self-loathing that grew in his heart for having continued his association with human. Even after time and time again, they've proven a stalwart ally in combat, but just... just too much in important social situations.
If it weren't for the fact that he half expected to get destroyed alongside Zack anyways for being too close in the next few seconds, he would've turned on the spot right there, and tried to leave the building. As things stood, he would continue to quietly lament and vent his frustrations until the giant spoke up once more.
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
Zephyros looks a bit confused at first before a sudden realization strikes him. Ah! A bit of a joke then? Ah I see! Hahaha quite good yes yes. Um if you would excuse me just a moment. Just then he levitates up through the hole in the ceiling and onto the 2nd floor. He is only there a few moments before he comes back down now wearing the robe again but this time with a matching hat. Sorry about that. Ah but yes I had heard that some of my kin had attacked the village below. Just horrid, barbaric and just so unnecessary. But as I said many giants don't think much of small folk, not all of us think that way mind you but too many do unfortunately. And alas I'm not entirely sure why they attacked the town. Well clearly as you said they stole this...Nightstone...though I'm not entirely sure what that is I suspect they came to take it because they thought it might help them in some way. Ah this might require a but of history to fully explain but I doubt you have a few hundred years or so to study ancient Giant history. Well maybe your elven friend does but you two maybe not so much. But I will try to be brief. For those of you who do not know, we giants have a caste system in our society called the Ordning. At the top are the storm giants who are the biggest and strongest among our kind. At the very bottom are the hill giants, stupid creatures who are often cause more trouble than anything else. This cast system is enforced in part by everyone's willingness to keep to it but more importantly its enforced by the All Father. The All Father is chief among our gods, and our gods impose this caste system on us. This prevents fighting among the various races of my kind as well as providing order. However, for reasons I'm not entirely sure of yet, the Ordning has been broken and our gods silent. Now...well it's simply chaos. Many nobles among giant society have retreated to their homes and lairs, gathering their forces and trying to do whatever they can to put themselves at the top. As you can see by evidence of the town below, they do not care if small folk get hurt in the process. I believe my people are looking for artifacts they think may be relics of some import in regards to our history, but I know not for sure. But as I said it as been a bit chaotic, I worry that the small folk may retaliate against my kind, and between that and the infighting already occurring, it could be quite disastrous indeed. I have been using powerful magic to contact extraplaner entities to investigate ways to restore order. This brings are powerful and know much and contacting them takes a toll on ones body and mind, but they have led me here to you. You are involved somehow but to what extent I'm not sure. I simply came here to inform you of this. Unfortunately I have been warned against aiding further than this, as it could have unintended consequences. But there was no harm in telling you that you are about to be involved in the goings ons of giants. But as I said the details are obscure to me. But I trust you are up to the task...whatever that may be. Zephyros paces back and forth several times as he tries to explain, speaking almost a mile a minute with thoughts occasionally being jumbled or scattered but he finally explains the above. He looks back to you all like one oblivious to the weight he just dumped on your shoulders.
Nadaar remained in his own world well after Zephyros temporary departure. During which time, the Dragonborn's muttering came to a close, and is replaced instead by agitated pacing back and forth. Hearing Zephyros again, he slows to a standstill, slowly glances up to the giant, and then lets out a sigh of relief. "It as if we will get to see one more sunrise, my friend." He whispered one last time to Rillex before turning his full attention to the wizard.
A good thing too, seeing the blitz through the explanation. Nadaar daren't even break out his pocket book and pen to write just to keep up! "A... huh... A-a few questions, my very, very worried Zephyros, if you do not mind? Do you perhaps have a book that goes further into detail on this Ordnig? Preferable one already with translations. But if not, at least one you'd be willing to let one such as I copy from to study up over time. Secondly, if these unintended consequences are merely directed at ourselves -- and if we prove willing to accept them -- would you then at least being open to just... by happenstance, drop 'us' off where we are supposedly going to go anyways? Or at least, closer to Zack's hometown. Not to overstay your hospitality, but... it is a fair ways out of the way. And the sooner we go, the sooner we can help in this, uhm... apparently serious giant problem."
"Also -- purely out of curiosity, you see -- but, would it be considering interfering if... No, I've already asked too much."
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
Zack was just barely able to keep up with what Zephyros was saying, the man speaking close to an auctioneers pace. To him, it seemed like the giant was basically here to say ''you're involved, that's all I can do for you." and he felt somewhat disappointed. It was nice to know that at-least this wasn't all random, he supposed, but as Zephy-boy spoke more, Zack began to pace himself, hands behind his back in 'attention' style. What Zack felt that Nadaar didn't realize, if the being had already decided to smite them, or.. try to, it would have done it regardless of what he did or didn't do.
When Nadaar finally made his proposal, it was at this point, that Zack had to butt in. I appreciate the sentiment Nadaar... but all things considered, after learning about all this, what we did learn, that is. It would be extremely selfish of me to ask for a personal favor like 'going home' if somehow the events around us involve us. He seemed a bit disappointed, and he had ceased his pacing. He was standing still now, his eyes looking mostly straight ahead at nothing in particular, but his vision was visibly downcast at the ground as he was deep in thought.
After a minute or so he finally added. I'll ask Morak to send a letter to them. It won't be the same, but.. at-least I can let them know that I'm still alive, and why I left when I did. He seemed about to add something as his mouth opened, then closed, whatever thought it had been, uncharacteristically vanishing in silence. His head finally rising, as he looks up to Zephyros, his expression serious. Well, you can't help us in where to go, but how about we pull a 'pippin' so instead, tell us where we shouldn't go if we seek to do anything about it. Since you wouldn't be pointing us in the right direction.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Zephyros thinks on Nadaars request even while Zack turns down the offer to return home. He seems to be lost in thought as he doesnt even realize Zack is deciding not to go home when he responds Yes yes I should be able to fly you to your friends home. I'm fairly certain that won't be considered interfering but I dare not risk it more than once so I can only offer to fly you this one time. Besides it's likely once I drop you off our paths may not cross for some time if ever. However if your friend wishes to go home I shall let you ride along with me just simply tell me where to go and we can be off in an instant! Zephyros then gives Zack an expecting look before he realizes that Zack had been talking. Oh, well you see I do not know where you should go or where you shouldn't go. And even if I did I dare not risk telling you for interfering too much could have unintended consequences for all of us. As I said, I simply came to give you a warning of sorts about your involvement in upcoming events. But the hows and wheres...these things are still obscure to me. Right now the only help I can offer is to provide you with a ride to a destination of your choice as your friend suggested. If not home then perhaps somewhere else. However that's all I can offer at the moment, perhaps in the future that may change but for now I simply cannot risk amy involvement that I'm not reasonably certain is safe.
Nadaar quirks a brow ridge at Zack, but would shrug afterwards. For as far as he was concerned, they'd end up where they'd need to be regardless of the direction or 'side quest'. "What is a pull a pippin?" He looks away, muttering to himself and tugging at his whiskers thoughtfully. He loses the trail of thought at Zephyros' reply. Which afterwards led him to look at Zack with a strained grin, "Well there ya go, Mr. Zack. We'd still need to send a message down to let them know of our plans at the very least. And given the vagaries of it all, it is more than likely that whatever choice we make, we'll find ourselves involved in all this regardless."
Nadaar looks askcance at that. "In fact, unless we wish to choose some city at random to go and warn, we... could go to... Waterdeep? As fairly large hub of activity as I've hard, there's bound to be a number of organizations to both warn about the impending trouble, and seek out for further guidance." He snorts and looks back to Zack. "Either which way, given the without further guidance or another happenstance encounter, the point stands.Unless..." He looks to Zphyros again. "If one were willing to accept the risks, might we speak with these higher power of yours? Beseech them directly for further guidance."
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
Zephyros shakes his head sadly in the negative. Unfortunately the spell that I use to contact these entities only affects the caster. More so the spell is quite risky, failed attempts to cast can leave one...a bit muddled in the head haha. These entities also tend to reply in single word responses or vague metaphors. But perhaps more importantly, If I were to contact them on your behalf I fear that would constitute interference on my part. Fate is fate, to try and change that could be quite dangerous.
Despite being raised in an elvish household, where elvish could easily be spoken a mile a minute, Nadia struggled with keeping up with the giants words, she having to slowly process what in the heck he was saying during the moments the boys would speak. Even then, she would have to multitask in listening to them and what they were saying all the while backtracking on what the giant said. It kept her silent throughout, but eventually she caught up on the conversation and deciding on where to go.
She cups her chin in thought. "While Waterdeep is a good idea to go since, as you said, it's a large hub and there is a possibility of many organizations being about, but... with a city as large as it is, there's more than likely going to be a huge Zhentarim presence. While I know I said we're capable of handling them, I don't know how we would do if a hoard of them came after us if we walk down one of the many alleyways... I know they're still going to be on our tails no matter where we go, but there? I think we would just be better off waving our arms around in the town square saying 'Here we are Zhents, come and get us!'" The elf shakes her head. "I would rather go to Zack's home, but, well, this is a group decision. I'll follow along with what we decide as a team."
Zack couldn't help but feel... guilty? or some other similar emotion when all was said and done. initially he'd just wanted to go back for personal reasons, but after Zeph said what he said, he couldn't help but feel that his request was selfish at this point. But if where they were going had some level of inevitability to it.. But seeing as there was no true consensus... he finally said Then I guess we may as well drop by. And see where the wind takes us from there huh... Still, I can't help but feel like I'm just being selfish now. But I agree with Nadia, going into a place likely to be filled with them isn't the best idea.. And I mean, what are we gonna tell the 'good' organizations? that the Zhents are being bad? They'll just laugh and say 'what else is new' since.. without us knowing anymore details.... Not much we can tell them. And morak is already goign to be informign his friend to the north. But if we're gettign a free ride.... and it'll save us time, and all that. Then lets just get to it. I'm over at Daggerford, just outside town. The medium sized farm to the south-west about a mile out. How long does it take to fly?
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Zephyros watches with interest as you all discuss what to do but clearly has no idea what you are talking about or what a Zhent is. However once a destination is mentioned he begs you to wait a moment as he levitates to the 2nd floor. You hear the shuffling of paper and some muttering before he yells down in a booming voice It should take about 3 and a half days! That is I'll be going around Daggerford to avoid scaring the locals so that will add about 12 hours or so to the trip. I'll drop you off a few miles off the road so we don't scare the people in town! We can leave whenever you're ready! Ah one more thing...I don't have any accommodations you people of your size so...you'll have to camp out on the first floor if you would!