Krackle smiles with an expression of both glee and sadness when Kess remarks about enjoying your final night together.
"Part of me wants to continue on with you in this adventure and go look for Dauric the Dragonborn druid. He sounds like a really interesting person! But I really want to try and go find Silver. I just have this feeling that he needs me... that he needs my help. He saved me when I was just a helpless kobold getting beat up by some mean people on the road. Now that I am stronger and can change into a bear, and I know more nature magic, I can help him with whatever thing that made him leave us so quickly back in Yartar."
"And I want to go back to Red Larch and see my Ma and Pa, take them the money I've made and show them that I'm not just a weak little kobold anymore, I'm a druid who has made friends and can help people."
"I will miss every one of you. We sure have had some great adventures during the past few weeks. And I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused along the way, running ahead too quickly into danger, and the whole thing with the mask. But even with all of that, you have stuck with me. I never had any friends when I was younger, I only had my family. But now, traveling with you, I know what it's like to have friends. You're my friends."
"Chrys, no one has looked after me and tried to protect me like you have. You are the strongest, most noble person I know and you wouldn't let anything bad happen to anybody who was in trouble. You're sometimes a little grumpy, but that's probably because every bit of goodness you have is in your heart."
"Kess, you're just such a wonderful person. You are always so kind to me, and you're so smart. You know so many things about the world and you are so fast and nimble with your swords. And I like it when you talk in your elvish language, like when you talk to Phelannie. It's such a beautiful language, it's like singing, except you're talking."
"Vesper, you don't always say much, but when you do, it's usually the right thing. You let the rest of us talk and talk and talk about stuff, and then you jump right in and make the decision for us. Also, I love the neat effects you make with your magic! It was really cool to watch you win the arcane contest in Yartar, when you made all those flowers and fireworks, and turned yourself pink! Also, I think you're the prettiest person I've ever seen. And it's funny to see you get a little silly when you drink too much wine! 🤣 Even though you're quiet, I know that you have a really good heart inside."
"And Lumen... I think I’m going to miss you most. You're the best friend I’ve ever had. I've never met anybody like you. You're almost always in a good mood, you're tough, you're funny, you play and sing so well, and you make such interesting sounds with your instruments. I never knew that people could make music sound like nature.. like water flowing over rocks, like the wind. You carry me on your shoulders, you're always looking out for me, you make us all feel more brave when we're feeling scared, even though you seem to end up getting hurt more than the rest of us. I think I'm gonna miss you the most. And I'm so sorry that I hurt you so badly when that mask made me crazy."
Krackle gives a lingering hug to each of you, and then he turns to Nym.
"I've only known you for a day, but you seem like a really good person, too. I think you'll make a good companion for my friends. I know I already asked you this, but will you please please please promise to keep them safe? I don't want anything bad to happen to them. Please ask Selûne and the other goddess you worship to watch over them, because I think that you guys are all going to face some really big dangers if you go looking for a big bad dragon. I hope that Dauric can give you some good advice about how to fix the forest. Next time I see you guys, maybe you can tell me all about him."
The little kobold then reaches into the pocket of his cloak and pulls out what looks like a pile of lint and grass. "I made these for all of you. They're friendship bracelets. My sister Helen made some for us two when I was younger, and I always wear it and think of her. I want to give you these so you can wear them and think of me."
Gently untangling and pulling them apart, you can see that the messy pile is actually a set of six thin woven bands that are made from green and brown string that he cut from the hem of his cloak and dried flower stems. He gives one to each of you, including Nym. "I haven't known you very long, but since you're going to travel with my friends and protect my friends, I guess that makes you my friend too. And I even made one for myself, so that I can wear on my other wrist and think of you every time I look at it."
He then steps back and says, "Kess is right! We should celebrate our last night together, at least for now. I know I'll see you all again, but since we're safe in Phelananie's nice grove, we should have a party and sing and dance to Lumen's music!"
Assuming that Lumen begins to play, Krackle crunches up his face as he casts produce flame. Once the small ball of fire was resting in his hand, he would attempt to juggle the ball of flame and dance along while Lumen played his tunes, just like he did that time outside in front of Donnal's Provisions back in Yartar.
Nym was relieved that Kessdarra seemed just as concerned as her if this was what they were facing. But at her pointed question concerning her and Phelannie's point of contact, she shrugged while handing the dragon scale back to the high elf for safe keeping. "I don't know. When he sent me out here it was to scout out the area and see what's what. But that was four days ago now. He might have learned more since then."
Chuckling a little at the kobold's excitable lament over her own druid friend, she too wished that he would continue to accompany them. If only for the pair of draconic druids to meet however briefly. But she understood wanting to help a friend in need. Watching Krackle speak to each one of his friends in turn caused a swirl of emotions inside of her. It was so heartwarming and yet so sad to see such obvious good friends part ways. She couldn't help but feel a little envious of the group's closeness and that she wouldn't get to know this rambunctious kobold more before he left.
Blinking as he next turned to her, the drow's amethyst eyes became wide as Krackle addressed her now. It wasn't long into him speaking that her eyes began to well up with tears that she refuses to let fall. Pursed lips trembling, Nym nods vehemently to his request. "I-I promise to do everything in my power to help keep them safe and pray to Selûne and Eilistraee to watch over them."
It was when he handed out the handmade friendship bracelets to not only his friends but her as well that a few tears finally spilled over and she wiped them away with an embarrassed chuckle before accepting the gift. "Thank you Krackle. Truly. I won't forget you."She makes sure to fasten it on well on her left wrist.
Rubbing her eyes dry as the little druid exclaims in agreement to Kessdarra's proposal of celebration, Nym's hand briefly touched her pack before glancing between Lumen and Krackle and shaking her head, instead shedding her armor so she was only wearing her simple robes. She then casts dancing lights, forming the four balls of lilac light into a small humanoid shape next to Krackle to dance with him as she clapped lightly in time with Lumen's beat, swaying before beginning to dance as well. Her movements are large and feet light as she smiles.
Chrys blinks furiously and grumbles under her breath as she accepts the friendship bracelet from the little kobold and carefully ties it around her wrist. "Y'always brightened up our journey together. Thank ye for comin' with us this far,"she tells Krackle, giving him a careful hug. "I want ya ta eat more, y'hear? You're still skin an' bones, an' a Pie Pal's gotta represent the goodness of everything that pie is properly. So promise me you'll take care o' yerself. I know you love yer family lots, but if ya ever get the hankerin' ta wander, remember that ya got family right here, too." With one last fond rub over Krackle's scaly head, she nods. "Yo go find Silver an' tell him the same. Chrysoberyl Vos'rorn be there if either o' ya e'er needs me. I promise it. Now go on an' celebrate, 'cause I want ta spend our last few hours together laughin', the way it should be."
Then sitting back, she watches the show, smiling and encouraging the dancing and revelry with the clapping of her hands and the stomping of her feet.
Lumen just tries to focus on his playing. That's the best way he knows how to communicate in situations like this. When Krackle addresses to him, he grunts a bit, and then briefly speaks, his deep voice a bit hoarse, though he'd never admit it. "Krackle, you're the best kobold I've ever met. One of the best people I've met. Gives me hope. And I think the mask was a lesson for you. Never be ashamed of who you are."He turns away and mutters something about "allergies" and a bit later returns to the group and begins to play what amounts to a combination revelry and wake.
A celebration of what the group has been through, and accomplished, and a chance to remember and acknowledge the losses and struggle. It's everything you'd hope from a Lumen performance, and he tries to teach some of the rhythm parts to Chrys and Krackle, and will even offer to teach anyone who's interested the basics of luteplaying. Anyone who does will notice that the friendship bracelet is wrapped securely around the neck, under the strings, not going anywhere.
"I'll miss you, Krackle. Stay safe on the way to your family. Maybe if you're lucky, you'll run into Silver and he'll help you get to them. But be careful of any masks or other artifacts that are being worn by bad people!"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
You all party together throughout the evening, and Krackle dances pretty much nonstop. You can tell that he's savoring every last moment with you, and every once in awhile, he moves over to distribute occasional hugs in between bouts of leaping happily about the grove. He especially loves moving along with Nym's "Dancing Lights" shape that accompanies him during the brief periods of time whenever she recasts the cantrip.
Lumen plays spectacularly well, better than he has in a long time, at least as far as he can remember. In fact, the entire evening is a huge lift of positive energy, which contrasts greatly with what you've experienced in the last couple of days, although tonight, it's easy to forget about those dark moments. You know there will be more, so it makes sense to immerse yourselves in the fun bonds of your friendships for now, instead of worry about the future. Of course, the reality is that it's your tight bond as a group that has gotten you this far, and it will likely be the thing to help you survive whatever dangers lie ahead.
For now, though, you push those thoughts aside and just enough this safe, joyful time that you have right now. Phelannie seems to enjoy the festivities, and she also dances to Lumen's music, fluttering about her grove, not really dancing WITH anyone, just moving about peacefully within her natural element.
Eventually, the party dies down, and late in the evening, you all retire to your bedrolls on the soft ground of the dryad's clearing. It was a stressful day of travel, and so sleep comes easily, aided by Phelannie's soft singing in her sylvan tongue as she moves about between the trees.
In the morning, you wake to the sounds of birds chirping and blue sky overhead, although Phelannie is nowhere in sight. Excited to get moving as soon as possible, and be out of this forest, Krackle climbs out of his little homemade burrow, smooths the dirt back and grabs his things. After brief, final farewells, the little kobold wishes you well, and you watch as your dear friend departs the grove and disappears into the thick wood that leads back to the path.
Chrys watches the kobold go, keeping an eye on him until he disappears out of her sight. Which is not long, considering his size, the density of the forest, and his affinity for nature. Still, she sighs as she crosses her arms and stares after his last sighted spot for a few minutes. "I'm gonna miss that lil' tyke."
Shaking her head, she turns to the others. "Let's get this done with. Claws first, swamp people later, that's what I say." She says it authoritatively, but when she turns to look at the forest, the wall of green intimidates and confuses her. "Eh... s'long as y'all are willin'. Guess someone else is gonna have to lead the way, cause I can barely find my own butt in this here forest," she grumbles.
As she considers the black dragon scale and the decay in the forest, she scratches her head. "Y'all think we're gonna have to face down a black dragon to stop the rot in this here forest? That's gonna be a tall order... I'm wonderin' if them rangers know 'bout the dragon, 'cause I'm thinkin' maybe we should tell 'em, too."
"I think if we see a dragon coming, we have to run the other way. That's above our pay grade. Tell the rangers, they can handle it. But I don't think this is a dragon. I think the scale was a collector's item or something. Krackle will undoubtedly run across the rangers and he can tell them. As for our next steps, I can help Kess find the path, I think. She seems to know the woods pretty well. And I can keep my eyes open for orc scouts."Lumen says, readying himself to depart.
Nym had taken particular interest in Lumen's lute playing when he offered to show the ropes to any keen on the idea. She noted that he had secured the bracelet he'd been given by Krackle around the neck of his instrument under the strings and knew that this lute must be especially precious to the bard. The drow grins at the kobold's enthusiastic dancing with her dimly lit figure and makes sure to recast the cantrip as regularly as she can remember, occasionally getting lost in the dance herself. It wasn't hard to get caught up in the music, the laughter, the gentle sounds of nature surrounding them as well as feeling the moonlight upon her skin as she danced, eyes closed while she glides around the glade, arms raised. Phelannie also seems caught up in the spirit of things, lost in her own song and her own dance.
After taking a break and breaking bread, Nym found that the others were willing and content to rest without setting watches. Perhaps the dryad didn't require sleep or meditation of any kind? A little wary at the prospect, the woman simply stated that she wasn't yet tired and stayed up a little longer to see the others asleep before taking a moment to watch Phelannie. Semi-assured that all was well, she finally took a moment to pray.
'I felt the sun on my face, grass on my feet and wind in my hair Eilistraee. It truly is as beautiful and blessed as you promised us. Thank you for your guidance and your gifts. I hope to continue to spread your good faith by helping these people... And I hope that we are wrong about the dragon. Please show us the right steps to dance us through to safety through our quest. As well as Krackle's.' Glancing up at Selûne when she arose over the tops of the trees, Nym would then turn her prayers to her, 'Moonmaiden I beseech you as not your Cleric but a simple worshiper that you look after this group and the young kobold Krackle. I believe he is a follower of yours as well. Let your Light guide his steps in the night and bring him to a new dawn. Know that I would never use your name in vain and I always respect and revere you Selûne, though my soul happily belongs with the Dark Maiden.'
With her mind and spirit a little more at ease now, the drow found a comfortable spot to rest against before slipping into a trance as the dryad's sylvan melody wove it's way into her mind. Remembering old and new dances until the morning.
She was one of the last to stir, stretching and gathering her things as the others said their goodbyes and then began to converse of their immediate goals. The woman was slightly distracted as she glanced about the grove for sight of the dryad. She did come out of a tree...perhaps that was where and how she slept when she did need rest? Regardless the others didn't seem concerned about her absence so neither would she. Focusing back on the discussion at hand, Nym adjusted the belt with her longsword at her side before bringing up, "We have little helpful to tell these rangers as it is. Your friend, Phelannie is acquainted with my friend, Duaric. And you yourself had wanted to speak with an ally of hers that might know more." The cleric met Lumen's eyes. "The worst that could happen is that he doesn't know anything more than we do. But he might. And if he does, that would greatly help the situation. Both for ourselves as well as to be able to pass along to these rangers."
((With Kess' help, would Nym be able to remember/navigate back to Duaric's tree?))
"Huh. I ain' a real fan of takin' things too slow, 'cause them spiders might come back. But eh... them orcs already came after us once, and if we can get more information on 'em, e'er little bit can help us win the battle ahead. Plus, I ain't sure how easy it'd be ta find elven rangers in a forest, but I sure ain't the person to do it, and it ain't fair ta rely on Krackle ta find 'em on his way out, neither. So maybe your friend can help tell us where they are."
Chrys goes on to describe the appearance of the four rangers they met for Nym's sake. "So there's Calia, she's their leader, see. She's a human with nice auburn hair. Then ya got the half-elves, Brit an' Salania, they weren't too chatty. Lastly they had a scout, some kinda elven hunter goin' by the name o' Thervanis. You'll know him by his dark hair. I think they've been lookin' for Grumbar an' his Red Claws for a while now."
Leaving Phelannie's grove, you head south into the section of deeper wood that lies between her clearing and the main pathway that leads through this part of the forest. As you recall, the trees are pretty dense in this section, and there is no straight line to be traveled, you have to constantly weave back and forth in between the closely spaced trunks, and occasionally climb over and duck under the long, twisting branches that reach out in all directions, some of which are the size of a man's torso.
This is where the four of you first encountered the spiders and ettercaps the other day. However, today, you see none. Most of the webbing has been torn or burned away, although a few loose intermittent strands remain, hanging lightly from the occasional branch and twig. In addition, the light seems a bit brighter in here than it did a few days go. It's still dim under the tight canopy, but it quite as gloomy. You also hear the songs of a few birds, and you even see a few squirrels playing almost the tree trunks. Overall, this small part of the forest just seems to have more life than it did the other day when you first passed through.
After a few hundred paces of slow travel, the walking gradually gets easier and the terrain becomes relatively flat. The forest floor in this section is covered with thick moss and fallen leaves, all of which are soft underfoot. As you walk you pass through a number of slim shaft of light that break through the canopy and casts slivers of daylight upon you as you navigate in between the trees.
In about twenty more minutes, you pass between a pronounced gap between two tall birch trees, and you find yourselves back on the trail in a small clearing, next to The Old Man Tree. Nym is seeing this massive, stout willow tree for the first time.
At least fifteen feet in diameter at the base, its immensely thick trunk and roots that are visible above the ground are gnarled, twisted and contorted with many, knots, rolls and bumpy, wart-like burls in such a way that they create a distinct profile of an old man's face with a bulbous nose, heavy rolling cheeks, sunken eyes and a large open mouth that droops all the way to the ground. A number of huge, thick limbs shoot upwards from the top of the trunk above the face and create a dense canopy of hanging leaves that look like long strands of thick hair blowing gently in the breeze.
You are now back on the main trail follows alongside the Dessarin River, that the rest of you had traveled from Noanar's Hold. Nyn has also been on this trail before, but not at this spot. By her guess, she's walked it a bit further to the east, and so even though she knows the location of Dauric's home and the general direction needed to travel from the trail in order to get there. By her best estimation, the best way to navigate would be to turn left and continue along the trail until you pass a landmark that she recognizes.
Nym looks to the side with a bit of a strained smile and admits to Lumen's question, "Thaaat...I'm not entirely sure about." Focusing on Chrys as she gave the rundown description of the rangers they had come across before, the drow attempted to cement them in her memory. "Calia, Brita, Salania and Thervanis. Got it." Her life might depend on it if the elven hunter was hasty in judgment. "I don't really know this area around the grove but I know that I'll recognize the path if I see it? It's definitely...mm.." She glanced up at the sky, squinting severely at the sun before rubbing her eyes and thinking for a moment as if recalling something before finishing, "South. Yes south from here. Sorry, directions on the surface are taking some getting used to."
Following the others as the clambered through the woods and vegetation, Nym experienced them retracing their steps, eyes shifting and ears twitching as they passed through the old ettercap nest through the webs and then expression aghast at the sight of the Old Man Tree. She held them up for a few minutes as she couldn't help but try and circle around the massive willow, surveying its face with keen interest, wondering if Duaric had already seen this....him? It?
Pausing again to fill up her main and secondary waterskins at the river, Nym eyes the sun with nearly closed eyes before glancing back at the path. "We're closer now. I think this is the same trail I had taken before though I don't recognize this part. I think if we go left that we'll come across some more familiar territory for me and then I'll be able to lead the rest of the way." Even though she felt at ease and not in danger, the woman seemed a little...twitchy. Constantly looking around at trees or birds a little too closely, as if looking for something.
As they pass the Old Man Tree, Chrys stops for a moment and places a hand on the surface of the trunk.
"I.. eh, I ain't no elf, and I sure ain't no druid neither, but I just wanted ta say thanks for protectin' this here forest. Don't really know how much you got to do with it really, but I'll thank ya all the same. If it weren't for the power o' nature out here, we mighta ended up tusslin' with them orc raiders before. I guess... I ain't really gotta understand you guys, to appreciate ya. So take care o' yerself, an' we'll try ta take care o' all the nasty things invadin' this here forest, too."
Moving on, Chrys sighs and relaxes marginally when they return to the trail. Still, remembering the propensity of roads to bring ambushes, she watches for any danger that might come along the path. (Perception: 7) At first, she thought Nym was doing the same, but as they continue to walk, she gets more and more distracted by watching the priestess instead. Finally, she comes out and says it: "Oi! What's eatin' ya, Nym? Ya look nervous. Ain't this Duaric fella yer friend? Don't he like visits?"
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(Perception if not in direct sunlight: 18 / Perception if in direct sunlight: 8 )
Chuckling a little awkwardly, Nym shook her head but explained, "No no, it's not that he doesn't like visits. He's a bit gruff but once you get to know him he's really kind. He's just been a bit on edge since these spiders started emerging. I've just uh...been startled one too many times by an unsuspecting bird or squirrel suddenly being him. Or him popping out of a tree. Don't really see such things underground. And...at this point I think he does it for a laugh." The drow sighed with a mildly exasperated smile.
"Huh," Chrys says, stretching and scratching behind one ear. "This guy sounds right up my alley. 'Cept for the part about lovin' ta live in the middle o' nature. I mean we ran into a livin' compost pile on our way in here! Who enjoys livin' in the middle o' a place where the ground might decide ta eat ya one day just 'cause it's hungry?!"she says, beginning to animatedly describe the party's near-encounter with the enormous forest creature that decimated the Red Claws that had tried to ambush them on the trail on the way in. "I though we were all goners! Fact, I'm expectin' Lumen to make a song 'bout it any day now," she adds with a grin. "I got a whole dance ready in my head for it, too. I'm gonna call it the Compost Monster Stomp."
Lumen looks to Nym. "Is this a part of the forest where it would be wise for me to try out a new waltz? The Compost Monster Stomp? Or should we keep it quieter..."he says, grinning, eyes forward.
You continue to walk east along the forest path for about an hour while talking with each other, joking, listening to the birds and enjoying the relative ease of travel on a straightforward trial, after three hard days picking your way through the tight forest and plodding over wet, mucky, uneven ground of the swamp. By comparison, this route is so much more comfortable and less stressful, and you find yourselves engaged in the simple joys of whimsical conversation for the first time in days.
Of course, you still keep you eyes and ears alert for any signs of danger, knowing full well that despite being on a relatively well-traveled path, there are many dangers that lurk here in the High Forest, and with every step, you are going deeper into its realm. Fortunately, no dangers present themselves, and the only creature that crosses your path is a porcupine, who waddles slowly in front of you for awhile before turning and disappearing into the brush.
After a brief stretch, you come to a very old stone bridge that crosses over what appears to be a long dried up tributary of the Dessarin. Nym recognizes this bridge, and she knows that from here, the way to Dauric's home is to descend down the small hill at the edge of the bridge into dry riverbed and follow it for about a half hour.
As you look down at the bridge, though, you see some drops of blood on the smooth, weathered stone, and they appear to be fresh.
Nym's nose wrinkled at the notion of a sentient pile of compost. "How...how does that even happen? Is that like when your parent tells you that if you don't wash your clothing that it would get up and walk away?" She shudders with a chuckle. "I certainly hope we won't need it but I'm glad you've got it prepared." Already tickled at what this dance might look like.
Matching the bard's grin, the woman began to reply, "I'd like to...." But then faded off at the glistening sight of blood on the stone bridge. Just a few drops, but stark contrast to its background. The cleric felt colder, her smile having dropped completely at the sight, hand already resting on her longsword as she walks slowly and quietly as she can manage forward to survey the scene. "I'd like to hear your waltz Lumen, but I think it might be best to retain as much stealth as we can manage for now." Squinting down at the blood before scanning the area and walking around, trying to see if there was a trail or tracks that she could pick up. More specifically, anything that hinted to leading down the small hill towards Duaric's domain. "I hope he's okay..." The drow murmurs to herself, chewing on the inside of her cheek.
((Not sure what I should roll for this. Perception? Investigation? Survival?))
Walking around, Nym also spots more blood on the path beyond the bridge, and down in the dry creek bed as well, with intermittent spatters visible on the rocks and fallen leaves. In fact, the trail of blood appears to continue in the direction that you need to follow in order to get to Dauric's home.
Krackle smiles with an expression of both glee and sadness when Kess remarks about enjoying your final night together.
"Part of me wants to continue on with you in this adventure and go look for Dauric the Dragonborn druid. He sounds like a really interesting person! But I really want to try and go find Silver. I just have this feeling that he needs me... that he needs my help. He saved me when I was just a helpless kobold getting beat up by some mean people on the road. Now that I am stronger and can change into a bear, and I know more nature magic, I can help him with whatever thing that made him leave us so quickly back in Yartar."
"And I want to go back to Red Larch and see my Ma and Pa, take them the money I've made and show them that I'm not just a weak little kobold anymore, I'm a druid who has made friends and can help people."
"I will miss every one of you. We sure have had some great adventures during the past few weeks. And I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused along the way, running ahead too quickly into danger, and the whole thing with the mask. But even with all of that, you have stuck with me. I never had any friends when I was younger, I only had my family. But now, traveling with you, I know what it's like to have friends. You're my friends."
"Chrys, no one has looked after me and tried to protect me like you have. You are the strongest, most noble person I know and you wouldn't let anything bad happen to anybody who was in trouble. You're sometimes a little grumpy, but that's probably because every bit of goodness you have is in your heart."
"Kess, you're just such a wonderful person. You are always so kind to me, and you're so smart. You know so many things about the world and you are so fast and nimble with your swords. And I like it when you talk in your elvish language, like when you talk to Phelannie. It's such a beautiful language, it's like singing, except you're talking."
"Vesper, you don't always say much, but when you do, it's usually the right thing. You let the rest of us talk and talk and talk about stuff, and then you jump right in and make the decision for us. Also, I love the neat effects you make with your magic! It was really cool to watch you win the arcane contest in Yartar, when you made all those flowers and fireworks, and turned yourself pink! Also, I think you're the prettiest person I've ever seen. And it's funny to see you get a little silly when you drink too much wine! 🤣 Even though you're quiet, I know that you have a really good heart inside."
"And Lumen... I think I’m going to miss you most. You're the best friend I’ve ever had. I've never met anybody like you. You're almost always in a good mood, you're tough, you're funny, you play and sing so well, and you make such interesting sounds with your instruments. I never knew that people could make music sound like nature.. like water flowing over rocks, like the wind. You carry me on your shoulders, you're always looking out for me, you make us all feel more brave when we're feeling scared, even though you seem to end up getting hurt more than the rest of us. I think I'm gonna miss you the most. And I'm so sorry that I hurt you so badly when that mask made me crazy."
Krackle gives a lingering hug to each of you, and then he turns to Nym.
"I've only known you for a day, but you seem like a really good person, too. I think you'll make a good companion for my friends. I know I already asked you this, but will you please please please promise to keep them safe? I don't want anything bad to happen to them. Please ask Selûne and the other goddess you worship to watch over them, because I think that you guys are all going to face some really big dangers if you go looking for a big bad dragon. I hope that Dauric can give you some good advice about how to fix the forest. Next time I see you guys, maybe you can tell me all about him."
The little kobold then reaches into the pocket of his cloak and pulls out what looks like a pile of lint and grass. "I made these for all of you. They're friendship bracelets. My sister Helen made some for us two when I was younger, and I always wear it and think of her. I want to give you these so you can wear them and think of me."
Gently untangling and pulling them apart, you can see that the messy pile is actually a set of six thin woven bands that are made from green and brown string that he cut from the hem of his cloak and dried flower stems. He gives one to each of you, including Nym. "I haven't known you very long, but since you're going to travel with my friends and protect my friends, I guess that makes you my friend too. And I even made one for myself, so that I can wear on my other wrist and think of you every time I look at it."
He then steps back and says, "Kess is right! We should celebrate our last night together, at least for now. I know I'll see you all again, but since we're safe in Phelananie's nice grove, we should have a party and sing and dance to Lumen's music!"
Assuming that Lumen begins to play, Krackle crunches up his face as he casts produce flame. Once the small ball of fire was resting in his hand, he would attempt to juggle the ball of flame and dance along while Lumen played his tunes, just like he did that time outside in front of Donnal's Provisions back in Yartar.
Nym was relieved that Kessdarra seemed just as concerned as her if this was what they were facing. But at her pointed question concerning her and Phelannie's point of contact, she shrugged while handing the dragon scale back to the high elf for safe keeping. "I don't know. When he sent me out here it was to scout out the area and see what's what. But that was four days ago now. He might have learned more since then."
Chuckling a little at the kobold's excitable lament over her own druid friend, she too wished that he would continue to accompany them. If only for the pair of draconic druids to meet however briefly. But she understood wanting to help a friend in need. Watching Krackle speak to each one of his friends in turn caused a swirl of emotions inside of her. It was so heartwarming and yet so sad to see such obvious good friends part ways. She couldn't help but feel a little envious of the group's closeness and that she wouldn't get to know this rambunctious kobold more before he left.
Blinking as he next turned to her, the drow's amethyst eyes became wide as Krackle addressed her now. It wasn't long into him speaking that her eyes began to well up with tears that she refuses to let fall. Pursed lips trembling, Nym nods vehemently to his request. "I-I promise to do everything in my power to help keep them safe and pray to Selûne and Eilistraee to watch over them."
It was when he handed out the handmade friendship bracelets to not only his friends but her as well that a few tears finally spilled over and she wiped them away with an embarrassed chuckle before accepting the gift. "Thank you Krackle. Truly. I won't forget you." She makes sure to fasten it on well on her left wrist.
Rubbing her eyes dry as the little druid exclaims in agreement to Kessdarra's proposal of celebration, Nym's hand briefly touched her pack before glancing between Lumen and Krackle and shaking her head, instead shedding her armor so she was only wearing her simple robes. She then casts dancing lights, forming the four balls of lilac light into a small humanoid shape next to Krackle to dance with him as she clapped lightly in time with Lumen's beat, swaying before beginning to dance as well. Her movements are large and feet light as she smiles.
Nym Durnodel - Aspiring Heroes of Faerûn // Danica Amastacia - Red Dead Annihilation
Chrys blinks furiously and grumbles under her breath as she accepts the friendship bracelet from the little kobold and carefully ties it around her wrist. "Y'always brightened up our journey together. Thank ye for comin' with us this far," she tells Krackle, giving him a careful hug. "I want ya ta eat more, y'hear? You're still skin an' bones, an' a Pie Pal's gotta represent the goodness of everything that pie is properly. So promise me you'll take care o' yerself. I know you love yer family lots, but if ya ever get the hankerin' ta wander, remember that ya got family right here, too." With one last fond rub over Krackle's scaly head, she nods. "Yo go find Silver an' tell him the same. Chrysoberyl Vos'rorn be there if either o' ya e'er needs me. I promise it. Now go on an' celebrate, 'cause I want ta spend our last few hours together laughin', the way it should be."
Then sitting back, she watches the show, smiling and encouraging the dancing and revelry with the clapping of her hands and the stomping of her feet.
Lumen just tries to focus on his playing. That's the best way he knows how to communicate in situations like this. When Krackle addresses to him, he grunts a bit, and then briefly speaks, his deep voice a bit hoarse, though he'd never admit it. "Krackle, you're the best kobold I've ever met. One of the best people I've met. Gives me hope. And I think the mask was a lesson for you. Never be ashamed of who you are." He turns away and mutters something about "allergies" and a bit later returns to the group and begins to play what amounts to a combination revelry and wake.
A celebration of what the group has been through, and accomplished, and a chance to remember and acknowledge the losses and struggle. It's everything you'd hope from a Lumen performance, and he tries to teach some of the rhythm parts to Chrys and Krackle, and will even offer to teach anyone who's interested the basics of luteplaying. Anyone who does will notice that the friendship bracelet is wrapped securely around the neck, under the strings, not going anywhere.
"I'll miss you, Krackle. Stay safe on the way to your family. Maybe if you're lucky, you'll run into Silver and he'll help you get to them. But be careful of any masks or other artifacts that are being worn by bad people!"
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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You all party together throughout the evening, and Krackle dances pretty much nonstop. You can tell that he's savoring every last moment with you, and every once in awhile, he moves over to distribute occasional hugs in between bouts of leaping happily about the grove. He especially loves moving along with Nym's "Dancing Lights" shape that accompanies him during the brief periods of time whenever she recasts the cantrip.
Lumen plays spectacularly well, better than he has in a long time, at least as far as he can remember. In fact, the entire evening is a huge lift of positive energy, which contrasts greatly with what you've experienced in the last couple of days, although tonight, it's easy to forget about those dark moments. You know there will be more, so it makes sense to immerse yourselves in the fun bonds of your friendships for now, instead of worry about the future. Of course, the reality is that it's your tight bond as a group that has gotten you this far, and it will likely be the thing to help you survive whatever dangers lie ahead.
For now, though, you push those thoughts aside and just enough this safe, joyful time that you have right now. Phelannie seems to enjoy the festivities, and she also dances to Lumen's music, fluttering about her grove, not really dancing WITH anyone, just moving about peacefully within her natural element.
Eventually, the party dies down, and late in the evening, you all retire to your bedrolls on the soft ground of the dryad's clearing. It was a stressful day of travel, and so sleep comes easily, aided by Phelannie's soft singing in her sylvan tongue as she moves about between the trees.
In the morning, you wake to the sounds of birds chirping and blue sky overhead, although Phelannie is nowhere in sight. Excited to get moving as soon as possible, and be out of this forest, Krackle climbs out of his little homemade burrow, smooths the dirt back and grabs his things. After brief, final farewells, the little kobold wishes you well, and you watch as your dear friend departs the grove and disappears into the thick wood that leads back to the path.
Chrys watches the kobold go, keeping an eye on him until he disappears out of her sight. Which is not long, considering his size, the density of the forest, and his affinity for nature. Still, she sighs as she crosses her arms and stares after his last sighted spot for a few minutes. "I'm gonna miss that lil' tyke."
Shaking her head, she turns to the others. "Let's get this done with. Claws first, swamp people later, that's what I say." She says it authoritatively, but when she turns to look at the forest, the wall of green intimidates and confuses her. "Eh... s'long as y'all are willin'. Guess someone else is gonna have to lead the way, cause I can barely find my own butt in this here forest," she grumbles.
As she considers the black dragon scale and the decay in the forest, she scratches her head. "Y'all think we're gonna have to face down a black dragon to stop the rot in this here forest? That's gonna be a tall order... I'm wonderin' if them rangers know 'bout the dragon, 'cause I'm thinkin' maybe we should tell 'em, too."
"I think if we see a dragon coming, we have to run the other way. That's above our pay grade. Tell the rangers, they can handle it. But I don't think this is a dragon. I think the scale was a collector's item or something. Krackle will undoubtedly run across the rangers and he can tell them. As for our next steps, I can help Kess find the path, I think. She seems to know the woods pretty well. And I can keep my eyes open for orc scouts." Lumen says, readying himself to depart.
Nym had taken particular interest in Lumen's lute playing when he offered to show the ropes to any keen on the idea. She noted that he had secured the bracelet he'd been given by Krackle around the neck of his instrument under the strings and knew that this lute must be especially precious to the bard. The drow grins at the kobold's enthusiastic dancing with her dimly lit figure and makes sure to recast the cantrip as regularly as she can remember, occasionally getting lost in the dance herself. It wasn't hard to get caught up in the music, the laughter, the gentle sounds of nature surrounding them as well as feeling the moonlight upon her skin as she danced, eyes closed while she glides around the glade, arms raised. Phelannie also seems caught up in the spirit of things, lost in her own song and her own dance.
After taking a break and breaking bread, Nym found that the others were willing and content to rest without setting watches. Perhaps the dryad didn't require sleep or meditation of any kind? A little wary at the prospect, the woman simply stated that she wasn't yet tired and stayed up a little longer to see the others asleep before taking a moment to watch Phelannie. Semi-assured that all was well, she finally took a moment to pray.
'I felt the sun on my face, grass on my feet and wind in my hair Eilistraee. It truly is as beautiful and blessed as you promised us. Thank you for your guidance and your gifts. I hope to continue to spread your good faith by helping these people... And I hope that we are wrong about the dragon. Please show us the right steps to dance us through to safety through our quest. As well as Krackle's.' Glancing up at Selûne when she arose over the tops of the trees, Nym would then turn her prayers to her, 'Moonmaiden I beseech you as not your Cleric but a simple worshiper that you look after this group and the young kobold Krackle. I believe he is a follower of yours as well. Let your Light guide his steps in the night and bring him to a new dawn. Know that I would never use your name in vain and I always respect and revere you Selûne, though my soul happily belongs with the Dark Maiden.'
With her mind and spirit a little more at ease now, the drow found a comfortable spot to rest against before slipping into a trance as the dryad's sylvan melody wove it's way into her mind. Remembering old and new dances until the morning.
She was one of the last to stir, stretching and gathering her things as the others said their goodbyes and then began to converse of their immediate goals. The woman was slightly distracted as she glanced about the grove for sight of the dryad. She did come out of a tree...perhaps that was where and how she slept when she did need rest? Regardless the others didn't seem concerned about her absence so neither would she. Focusing back on the discussion at hand, Nym adjusted the belt with her longsword at her side before bringing up, "We have little helpful to tell these rangers as it is. Your friend, Phelannie is acquainted with my friend, Duaric. And you yourself had wanted to speak with an ally of hers that might know more." The cleric met Lumen's eyes. "The worst that could happen is that he doesn't know anything more than we do. But he might. And if he does, that would greatly help the situation. Both for ourselves as well as to be able to pass along to these rangers."
((With Kess' help, would Nym be able to remember/navigate back to Duaric's tree?))
Nym Durnodel - Aspiring Heroes of Faerûn // Danica Amastacia - Red Dead Annihilation
Lumen forgot about Duaric, and smiles when Nym reminds him. "It sounds like he'd be worth the effort to go see beforehand. Is he on the way?"
"Huh. I ain' a real fan of takin' things too slow, 'cause them spiders might come back. But eh... them orcs already came after us once, and if we can get more information on 'em, e'er little bit can help us win the battle ahead. Plus, I ain't sure how easy it'd be ta find elven rangers in a forest, but I sure ain't the person to do it, and it ain't fair ta rely on Krackle ta find 'em on his way out, neither. So maybe your friend can help tell us where they are."
Chrys goes on to describe the appearance of the four rangers they met for Nym's sake. "So there's Calia, she's their leader, see. She's a human with nice auburn hair. Then ya got the half-elves, Brit an' Salania, they weren't too chatty. Lastly they had a scout, some kinda elven hunter goin' by the name o' Thervanis. You'll know him by his dark hair. I think they've been lookin' for Grumbar an' his Red Claws for a while now."
Leaving Phelannie's grove, you head south into the section of deeper wood that lies between her clearing and the main pathway that leads through this part of the forest. As you recall, the trees are pretty dense in this section, and there is no straight line to be traveled, you have to constantly weave back and forth in between the closely spaced trunks, and occasionally climb over and duck under the long, twisting branches that reach out in all directions, some of which are the size of a man's torso.
This is where the four of you first encountered the spiders and ettercaps the other day. However, today, you see none. Most of the webbing has been torn or burned away, although a few loose intermittent strands remain, hanging lightly from the occasional branch and twig. In addition, the light seems a bit brighter in here than it did a few days go. It's still dim under the tight canopy, but it quite as gloomy. You also hear the songs of a few birds, and you even see a few squirrels playing almost the tree trunks. Overall, this small part of the forest just seems to have more life than it did the other day when you first passed through.
After a few hundred paces of slow travel, the walking gradually gets easier and the terrain becomes relatively flat. The forest floor in this section is covered with thick moss and fallen leaves, all of which are soft underfoot. As you walk you pass through a number of slim shaft of light that break through the canopy and casts slivers of daylight upon you as you navigate in between the trees.
In about twenty more minutes, you pass between a pronounced gap between two tall birch trees, and you find yourselves back on the trail in a small clearing, next to The Old Man Tree. Nym is seeing this massive, stout willow tree for the first time.
At least fifteen feet in diameter at the base, its immensely thick trunk and roots that are visible above the ground are gnarled, twisted and contorted with many, knots, rolls and bumpy, wart-like burls in such a way that they create a distinct profile of an old man's face with a bulbous nose, heavy rolling cheeks, sunken eyes and a large open mouth that droops all the way to the ground. A number of huge, thick limbs shoot upwards from the top of the trunk above the face and create a dense canopy of hanging leaves that look like long strands of thick hair blowing gently in the breeze.
You are now back on the main trail follows alongside the Dessarin River, that the rest of you had traveled from Noanar's Hold. Nyn has also been on this trail before, but not at this spot. By her guess, she's walked it a bit further to the east, and so even though she knows the location of Dauric's home and the general direction needed to travel from the trail in order to get there. By her best estimation, the best way to navigate would be to turn left and continue along the trail until you pass a landmark that she recognizes.
Nym looks to the side with a bit of a strained smile and admits to Lumen's question, "Thaaat...I'm not entirely sure about." Focusing on Chrys as she gave the rundown description of the rangers they had come across before, the drow attempted to cement them in her memory. "Calia, Brita, Salania and Thervanis. Got it." Her life might depend on it if the elven hunter was hasty in judgment. "I don't really know this area around the grove but I know that I'll recognize the path if I see it? It's definitely...mm.." She glanced up at the sky, squinting severely at the sun before rubbing her eyes and thinking for a moment as if recalling something before finishing, "South. Yes south from here. Sorry, directions on the surface are taking some getting used to."
Following the others as the clambered through the woods and vegetation, Nym experienced them retracing their steps, eyes shifting and ears twitching as they passed through the old ettercap nest through the webs and then expression aghast at the sight of the Old Man Tree. She held them up for a few minutes as she couldn't help but try and circle around the massive willow, surveying its face with keen interest, wondering if Duaric had already seen this....him? It?
Pausing again to fill up her main and secondary waterskins at the river, Nym eyes the sun with nearly closed eyes before glancing back at the path. "We're closer now. I think this is the same trail I had taken before though I don't recognize this part. I think if we go left that we'll come across some more familiar territory for me and then I'll be able to lead the rest of the way." Even though she felt at ease and not in danger, the woman seemed a little...twitchy. Constantly looking around at trees or birds a little too closely, as if looking for something.
Nym Durnodel - Aspiring Heroes of Faerûn // Danica Amastacia - Red Dead Annihilation
As they pass the Old Man Tree, Chrys stops for a moment and places a hand on the surface of the trunk.
"I.. eh, I ain't no elf, and I sure ain't no druid neither, but I just wanted ta say thanks for protectin' this here forest. Don't really know how much you got to do with it really, but I'll thank ya all the same. If it weren't for the power o' nature out here, we mighta ended up tusslin' with them orc raiders before. I guess... I ain't really gotta understand you guys, to appreciate ya. So take care o' yerself, an' we'll try ta take care o' all the nasty things invadin' this here forest, too."
Moving on, Chrys sighs and relaxes marginally when they return to the trail. Still, remembering the propensity of roads to bring ambushes, she watches for any danger that might come along the path. (Perception: 7) At first, she thought Nym was doing the same, but as they continue to walk, she gets more and more distracted by watching the priestess instead. Finally, she comes out and says it: "Oi! What's eatin' ya, Nym? Ya look nervous. Ain't this Duaric fella yer friend? Don't he like visits?"
(Perception if not in direct sunlight: 18 / Perception if in direct sunlight: 8 )
Chuckling a little awkwardly, Nym shook her head but explained, "No no, it's not that he doesn't like visits. He's a bit gruff but once you get to know him he's really kind. He's just been a bit on edge since these spiders started emerging. I've just uh...been startled one too many times by an unsuspecting bird or squirrel suddenly being him. Or him popping out of a tree. Don't really see such things underground. And...at this point I think he does it for a laugh." The drow sighed with a mildly exasperated smile.
Nym Durnodel - Aspiring Heroes of Faerûn // Danica Amastacia - Red Dead Annihilation
"Huh," Chrys says, stretching and scratching behind one ear. "This guy sounds right up my alley. 'Cept for the part about lovin' ta live in the middle o' nature. I mean we ran into a livin' compost pile on our way in here! Who enjoys livin' in the middle o' a place where the ground might decide ta eat ya one day just 'cause it's hungry?!" she says, beginning to animatedly describe the party's near-encounter with the enormous forest creature that decimated the Red Claws that had tried to ambush them on the trail on the way in. "I though we were all goners! Fact, I'm expectin' Lumen to make a song 'bout it any day now," she adds with a grin. "I got a whole dance ready in my head for it, too. I'm gonna call it the Compost Monster Stomp."
Lumen looks to Nym. "Is this a part of the forest where it would be wise for me to try out a new waltz? The Compost Monster Stomp? Or should we keep it quieter..." he says, grinning, eyes forward.
You continue to walk east along the forest path for about an hour while talking with each other, joking, listening to the birds and enjoying the relative ease of travel on a straightforward trial, after three hard days picking your way through the tight forest and plodding over wet, mucky, uneven ground of the swamp. By comparison, this route is so much more comfortable and less stressful, and you find yourselves engaged in the simple joys of whimsical conversation for the first time in days.
Of course, you still keep you eyes and ears alert for any signs of danger, knowing full well that despite being on a relatively well-traveled path, there are many dangers that lurk here in the High Forest, and with every step, you are going deeper into its realm. Fortunately, no dangers present themselves, and the only creature that crosses your path is a porcupine, who waddles slowly in front of you for awhile before turning and disappearing into the brush.
After a brief stretch, you come to a very old stone bridge that crosses over what appears to be a long dried up tributary of the Dessarin. Nym recognizes this bridge, and she knows that from here, the way to Dauric's home is to descend down the small hill at the edge of the bridge into dry riverbed and follow it for about a half hour.
As you look down at the bridge, though, you see some drops of blood on the smooth, weathered stone, and they appear to be fresh.
Nym's nose wrinkled at the notion of a sentient pile of compost. "How...how does that even happen? Is that like when your parent tells you that if you don't wash your clothing that it would get up and walk away?" She shudders with a chuckle. "I certainly hope we won't need it but I'm glad you've got it prepared." Already tickled at what this dance might look like.
Matching the bard's grin, the woman began to reply, "I'd like to...." But then faded off at the glistening sight of blood on the stone bridge. Just a few drops, but stark contrast to its background. The cleric felt colder, her smile having dropped completely at the sight, hand already resting on her longsword as she walks slowly and quietly as she can manage forward to survey the scene. "I'd like to hear your waltz Lumen, but I think it might be best to retain as much stealth as we can manage for now." Squinting down at the blood before scanning the area and walking around, trying to see if there was a trail or tracks that she could pick up. More specifically, anything that hinted to leading down the small hill towards Duaric's domain. "I hope he's okay..." The drow murmurs to herself, chewing on the inside of her cheek.
((Not sure what I should roll for this. Perception? Investigation? Survival?))
Nym Durnodel - Aspiring Heroes of Faerûn // Danica Amastacia - Red Dead Annihilation
Walking around, Nym also spots more blood on the path beyond the bridge, and down in the dry creek bed as well, with intermittent spatters visible on the rocks and fallen leaves. In fact, the trail of blood appears to continue in the direction that you need to follow in order to get to Dauric's home.