Choir picks up the key, and add it to the ring from the bathhouse. She is starting a collection. (She makes sure to note which one this is, since it probably opens the cell of the High Observer, Thavius Kreeg. At least, she hopes so.)
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Only two of the cells contained prisoners. For convenience of the jailers (not all of which were devils with a darkvision) occupied cells were illuminated the same way corridors were - a deem light of magical lamps. The first prisoner looks like a short, lean, erudite male human in his fifties, the second one - a fit, aristocratic human woman in her seventies. Non of the prisoners reacted to the golden mask, covering Frans face, when it appeared behind the bars of the window on the cell door. The woman even demonstratively turned her back to the "curious cultist".
Once Fran tells her what was seen, Choir would unlock the man's cell, whispering, "Praise to Akadi!Beautiful Elturel!Thavius Kreeg, the High Observer of Elturel."
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Reya rushed to the sell, striping away in disgust the mask and the robe as she was ruing, she swung open the door only to sunk her shoulders in great disappointment. The man inside was not Thavius Kreeg. Not knowing what to say in this situation she tried to hide her disappointment and simply said "you are free, you can go now".
"Who are you, child, and why are you with the cultists if you truly want me free?" slowly asked the man. He looks weary and when he moved, you could see he is lame in one lag. The man looks somewhat outlandish with his neatly trimmed goatee beard is dyed crimson, long dark hair, and dressed in an ankle-length caftan. Still, even paranoid byt this point Reya does not get any malicious vibe from him.
"Reya Mantlemorn of Elturel," sad the girl (the man gave her understanding kind look) and stepped back, allowing others to look at the prisoner.
Choir's feathers droop. Still, if this man is a prisoner of the evil cultists, he is probably worth saving. She pats him on the shoulder in a friendly way.
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Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
"Adray Pridesun of Elturel as well," said Adray and then in a more rushed tone he said, "sorry to be crass, but can we get the short version of what you're doing here and what info we have. More cultists could come at any time."
"Both of you do sound elturelian, and I see the key in your hand, friend," he looked at Choir, "while Thoss is not present. But I have been ... interrogated before, to my capture's disappointment. How can I be sure this is not yet another attempt of Thalamra Vanthampur to learn what I know?" "Who are you and what are you doing here?"
By that time Polly has made her way to the cells. “We are a newly formed troop of Flaming Fist. Not that all of us had a choice.. Long story short, we’re trying to get to the bottom of what happened to Elturel. So far we have uncovered that the Vanthampur family is involved somehow. We also have strong reasons for believing that the High Observer of Elturel, Thavius Kreeg is being held by them.” She say and holy up her FF emblem as proof of what she is saying.
Completely forgetting that she presented as a cultist, Fran lifted her mask to rest it on the top of her head. She’d bow her head in greeting both to the man and woman prisoners, “Aye I suppose we’re pretty misleadin’ with these disguises eh? Though, if yeh look closely, most of us dun fit ‘em properly, and there be some blood.” She’d try to point out a red stain on black, knowing it’s nearly impossible. That is how they’re getting away with it. “Name’s Fran.” The artificer would let out a quick whistle to call her metal companion over, “This ‘ere’s Brutus. I crafted him. I can’t say I’ve met many cultists who can tinker.” She’d wiggle her fingers at the word tinkering. Though, she didn’t convince herself. Instead she started wondering if they DO tinker. Fran was hoping that these examples could assist with convincing the prisoners that they’re not cultists. “Oh. An’.” She’d reach into her pocket under the robe and pull out her Flaming Fist insignia. Although they were technically operating on their own and not as the Flaming Fist, perhaps it could help ease the captors. “We’ve already fought a fiend and a devil in these parts. Tryna’ get to the bottom of this Vanthampur mess.” She continues to chat as she looks over the old mans wounds. The artificer would pull out her healing kit and begin tending to any wounds before moving on to check over his neighbour.
The man suddenly laughed "Indeed, tinkering is not their style and they prefer imps to do their bidding". Stabbed and bloodied robes seem to convince him even more and he relaid his story. "My name is Falaster Fisk. I am from Calimshan but came here from Candlekeep, to help a friend. No, not that fine lady." (he bowed to the old woman, the other prisoner)"Before I continue, let me introduce you Lady Satiir Thione-Hhune."
Now properly introduced woman slightly tilted her head, in acknowledgement and, probably, gratitude. "I will remember your names and can promise you the gratitude of Hhune patriar family. Vanthampurs kidnapped me and were planning to use to keep the Hhunes from opposing Duke Vanthampur’s bid to become the new grand duke. I swear on my House name - once I reach my home, Duke Vanthampur’s political future in Baldur’s Gate is history." She speaks with genuine cold disgust, meaning every word. After informing the party about her plans, Lady returned to silent state of a noble, fount itself in an inappropriate situation.
Falaster continued: "As I was saying, I came here on request of a friend - Sylvira Savikas, a sage who operates out of Candlekeep.She’s been monitoring devil activity in Baldur’s Gate and Elturel for months. Found out about Duke Vanthampur’s involvement, then learned about presence of Thavius Kreeg in the house and asked me to investigate. I was caught, but not before I learned that Thavius Kreeg is no prisoner here, but the guest." He glanced at Reya, who can not hide an expression of a disbelieve on her face. "I learned about the villa all I could and pretty sure can draw a plan of both - the house and the dungeon." He looked around "Pretty neat construction, if she would just stay a sewer worker - I would admire the woman! I mean Thalamra Vanthampur."
"Should you have a piece of paper I would drew you a map, otherwise I would gladly show you the Thavius Kreeg's quarters. It is here, in the dungeon."
If nobody has a parchment on them, Choir will offer her Falaster blank inside cover of her prayer book to draw the map.
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Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Polly has a bit of parchment that she gives to Falaster. “A map would help us a great deal. So far we have gone blind and relied on luck to get by.” She thinks for a while. What do you mean that Kreeg isn’t a prisoner but a guest? Is he in league with the Vanthampur’s?”
“oh right i almost forgot! Choir, do you still have that wand and amulet on you? The ones we found in the sewers with the dead three cultists? It could help us find more of those severed doors that we found earlier.”
Choir points to Fran. She gave them to the artificer while they were still in the underground lair.
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Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) WoodElf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2 Last Tree StandingTabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1 Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Fran’s eyes would go wide like a deer in lights when Choir would point at her. Then she’d clue in to what her and Polly were talking about. “Oy! I almost fergot.” She’d start ruffling through some pouches and patting down pockets, trying to remember where she put them. “Aye. We hauled back so much stuff from the last place I fergot what I had!” The artificer would slide daggers out from different spots hidden in her leathers as she searched, “Dagger anyone?” She’d offer one up for humours sake as she fumbles around her gear to find the wand and amulet. Finally, Fran would put up a finger remembering that she put it in a ‘safe place’. She’d shove her hand into her bag of holding, picturing the items in her mind. Sure enough, this time she’d produce the wand and amulet for Polly.
"Wait, you said Thavius is a guest? And by guest you mean he is forced to remain here against his will but under house arrest right? Surely you dont mean he is deeply involved in all this?" Adray says.
It took some time, but the man certainly knew how to draw and how to do it fast. The group was rewarded for it's patience by two complete maps of the villa and the dungeon, icluding secret passages. Falaster looked at you with a smile: "It took a great deal to learn all of these and the source of my knowledge was of the most interest to Vanthampur. Something I would rather keep a secret," just in case it was not obvious specified the man.
Dungeon map:
Villa:
"Now, you see that room" (he pointed at the room of the dungeon marked as "35"). These are the Thavius Kreeg’s Quarters. He spends his time either there or in the Vanthampur Vault - number "36". And why is he doing it..." Falaster looked at Reya with a sadness in his eyes, “Sylvira is convinced that Thavius Kreeg struck a bargain with an archdevil, and that a copy of the contract he signed is hidden inside a magic puzzle box. She asked me to help her obtain proof of Kreeg’s crimes.”
He did not even finish before a Reya's blade was at his throat: "Liar!!! Both of you! Whoever that witch you are talking about is - she does not know a thing about High Observer! She does not dare to touch his name!"
Falaster did not flinched: "Find the box, bring it to Sylvira or open it yourself if you have the knowledge, and you will get your proofs." "Now put the blade down and let me escort Lady Satiir Thione-Hhune to her house. I am useless in the fight but know my way around villa, as you see. We both can stay with you, but it will slow you down. Find me when you are finished with this nest of vipers("House Hhune will offer you protection and hospitality" calmly commented the Lady) "and we will see what can be done about the box."
"There is something more in the Vault. Something, that Thavius Kreeg was called to unlock or unleash for Vanthampurs. Whatever it is - be ware!"
Er... if he signed the contract, why does he want to open the box? asks Ordrag, until the others patiently explain it to him and the poor half-orc nods in comprehension.
Choir picks up the key, and add it to the ring from the bathhouse. She is starting a collection. (She makes sure to note which one this is, since it probably opens the cell of the High Observer, Thavius Kreeg. At least, she hopes so.)
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Much more likely it would open the prison cells, that you could see to your right now, where Adray was leading the "intruder" Ordrag.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
After the boys finish the devil, out of curiosity, Fran would go investigate the cells to see who they considered prisoners.
just an unstable unicorn.
Only two of the cells contained prisoners. For convenience of the jailers (not all of which were devils with a darkvision) occupied cells were illuminated the same way corridors were - a deem light of magical lamps. The first prisoner looks like a short, lean, erudite male human in his fifties, the second one - a fit, aristocratic human woman in her seventies. Non of the prisoners reacted to the golden mask, covering Frans face, when it appeared behind the bars of the window on the cell door. The woman even demonstratively turned her back to the "curious cultist".
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Once Fran tells her what was seen, Choir would unlock the man's cell, whispering, "Praise to Akadi! Beautiful Elturel! Thavius Kreeg, the High Observer of Elturel."
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Ordrag will salute in respect to the High Observer (even though he is not from Elturel and doesn't know the fella, just habit)
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Reya rushed to the sell, striping away in disgust the mask and the robe as she was ruing, she swung open the door only to sunk her shoulders in great disappointment. The man inside was not Thavius Kreeg. Not knowing what to say in this situation she tried to hide her disappointment and simply said "you are free, you can go now".
"Who are you, child, and why are you with the cultists if you truly want me free?" slowly asked the man. He looks weary and when he moved, you could see he is lame in one lag. The man looks somewhat outlandish with his neatly trimmed goatee beard is dyed crimson, long dark hair, and dressed in an ankle-length caftan. Still, even paranoid byt this point Reya does not get any malicious vibe from him.
"Reya Mantlemorn of Elturel," sad the girl (the man gave her understanding kind look) and stepped back, allowing others to look at the prisoner.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Choir's feathers droop. Still, if this man is a prisoner of the evil cultists, he is probably worth saving. She pats him on the shoulder in a friendly way.
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
"Adray Pridesun of Elturel as well," said Adray and then in a more rushed tone he said, "sorry to be crass, but can we get the short version of what you're doing here and what info we have. More cultists could come at any time."
"Both of you do sound elturelian, and I see the key in your hand, friend," he looked at Choir, "while Thoss is not present. But I have been ... interrogated before, to my capture's disappointment. How can I be sure this is not yet another attempt of Thalamra Vanthampur to learn what I know?" "Who are you and what are you doing here?"
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
By that time Polly has made her way to the cells. “We are a newly formed troop of Flaming Fist. Not that all of us had a choice.. Long story short, we’re trying to get to the bottom of what happened to Elturel. So far we have uncovered that the Vanthampur family is involved somehow. We also have strong reasons for believing that the High Observer of Elturel, Thavius Kreeg is being held by them.” She say and holy up her FF emblem as proof of what she is saying.
Completely forgetting that she presented as a cultist, Fran lifted her mask to rest it on the top of her head. She’d bow her head in greeting both to the man and woman prisoners, “Aye I suppose we’re pretty misleadin’ with these disguises eh? Though, if yeh look closely, most of us dun fit ‘em properly, and there be some blood.” She’d try to point out a red stain on black, knowing it’s nearly impossible. That is how they’re getting away with it. “Name’s Fran.” The artificer would let out a quick whistle to call her metal companion over, “This ‘ere’s Brutus. I crafted him. I can’t say I’ve met many cultists who can tinker.” She’d wiggle her fingers at the word tinkering. Though, she didn’t convince herself. Instead she started wondering if they DO tinker. Fran was hoping that these examples could assist with convincing the prisoners that they’re not cultists. “Oh. An’.” She’d reach into her pocket under the robe and pull out her Flaming Fist insignia. Although they were technically operating on their own and not as the Flaming Fist, perhaps it could help ease the captors. “We’ve already fought a fiend and a devil in these parts. Tryna’ get to the bottom of this Vanthampur mess.” She continues to chat as she looks over the old mans wounds. The artificer would pull out her healing kit and begin tending to any wounds before moving on to check over his neighbour.
just an unstable unicorn.
The man suddenly laughed "Indeed, tinkering is not their style and they prefer imps to do their bidding". Stabbed and bloodied robes seem to convince him even more and he relaid his story. "My name is Falaster Fisk. I am from Calimshan but came here from Candlekeep, to help a friend. No, not that fine lady." (he bowed to the old woman, the other prisoner)"Before I continue, let me introduce you Lady Satiir Thione-Hhune."
Now properly introduced woman slightly tilted her head, in acknowledgement and, probably, gratitude. "I will remember your names and can promise you the gratitude of Hhune patriar family. Vanthampurs kidnapped me and were planning to use to keep the Hhunes from opposing Duke Vanthampur’s bid to become the new grand duke. I swear on my House name - once I reach my home, Duke Vanthampur’s political future in Baldur’s Gate is history." She speaks with genuine cold disgust, meaning every word. After informing the party about her plans, Lady returned to silent state of a noble, fount itself in an inappropriate situation.
Falaster continued: "As I was saying, I came here on request of a friend - Sylvira Savikas, a sage who operates out of Candlekeep.She’s been monitoring devil activity in Baldur’s Gate and Elturel for months. Found out about Duke Vanthampur’s involvement, then learned about presence of Thavius Kreeg in the house and asked me to investigate. I was caught, but not before I learned that Thavius Kreeg is no prisoner here, but the guest." He glanced at Reya, who can not hide an expression of a disbelieve on her face. "I learned about the villa all I could and pretty sure can draw a plan of both - the house and the dungeon." He looked around "Pretty neat construction, if she would just stay a sewer worker - I would admire the woman! I mean Thalamra Vanthampur."
"Should you have a piece of paper I would drew you a map, otherwise I would gladly show you the Thavius Kreeg's quarters. It is here, in the dungeon."
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
If nobody has a parchment on them, Choir will offer her Falaster blank inside cover of her prayer book to draw the map.
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Polly has a bit of parchment that she gives to Falaster. “A map would help us a great deal. So far we have gone blind and relied on luck to get by.” She thinks for a while. What do you mean that Kreeg isn’t a prisoner but a guest? Is he in league with the Vanthampur’s?”
“oh right i almost forgot! Choir, do you still have that wand and amulet on you? The ones we found in the sewers with the dead three cultists? It could help us find more of those severed doors that we found earlier.”
Choir points to Fran. She gave them to the artificer while they were still in the underground lair.
Edeleth Treesong (Aldalire) Wood Elf Druid lvl 8 Talaveroth Sub 2
Last Tree Standing Tabaxi Ranger, Chef and Hoardsperson lvl 5, Company of the Dragon Team 1
Choir Kenku Cleric, Tempest Domain, lvl 11, Descent Into Avernus Test Drive
Poinki Goblin Paladin, Redemption, lvl 5, Tales from Talaveroth
Lyrika Nyx Satyr Bard lvl 1, The Six Kingdoms of Talia
Fran’s eyes would go wide like a deer in lights when Choir would point at her. Then she’d clue in to what her and Polly were talking about. “Oy! I almost fergot.” She’d start ruffling through some pouches and patting down pockets, trying to remember where she put them. “Aye. We hauled back so much stuff from the last place I fergot what I had!” The artificer would slide daggers out from different spots hidden in her leathers as she searched, “Dagger anyone?” She’d offer one up for humours sake as she fumbles around her gear to find the wand and amulet. Finally, Fran would put up a finger remembering that she put it in a ‘safe place’. She’d shove her hand into her bag of holding, picturing the items in her mind. Sure enough, this time she’d produce the wand and amulet for Polly.
just an unstable unicorn.
"Wait, you said Thavius is a guest? And by guest you mean he is forced to remain here against his will but under house arrest right? Surely you dont mean he is deeply involved in all this?" Adray says.
It took some time, but the man certainly knew how to draw and how to do it fast. The group was rewarded for it's patience by two complete maps of the villa and the dungeon, icluding secret passages. Falaster looked at you with a smile: "It took a great deal to learn all of these and the source of my knowledge was of the most interest to Vanthampur. Something I would rather keep a secret," just in case it was not obvious specified the man.
Dungeon map:
Villa:
"Now, you see that room" (he pointed at the room of the dungeon marked as "35"). These are the Thavius Kreeg’s Quarters. He spends his time either there or in the Vanthampur Vault - number "36". And why is he doing it..." Falaster looked at Reya with a sadness in his eyes, “Sylvira is convinced that Thavius Kreeg struck a bargain with an archdevil, and that a copy of the contract he signed is hidden inside a magic puzzle box. She asked me to help her obtain proof of Kreeg’s crimes.”
He did not even finish before a Reya's blade was at his throat: "Liar!!! Both of you! Whoever that witch you are talking about is - she does not know a thing about High Observer! She does not dare to touch his name!"
Falaster did not flinched: "Find the box, bring it to Sylvira or open it yourself if you have the knowledge, and you will get your proofs." "Now put the blade down and let me escort Lady Satiir Thione-Hhune to her house. I am useless in the fight but know my way around villa, as you see. We both can stay with you, but it will slow you down. Find me when you are finished with this nest of vipers ("House Hhune will offer you protection and hospitality" calmly commented the Lady) "and we will see what can be done about the box."
"There is something more in the Vault. Something, that Thavius Kreeg was called to unlock or unleash for Vanthampurs. Whatever it is - be ware!"
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Er... if he signed the contract, why does he want to open the box? asks Ordrag, until the others patiently explain it to him and the poor half-orc nods in comprehension.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?