CRAP and all others present agree to call it day. Lady Dala speaks once more: "Then it is agreed. Let us all meet tomorrow evening, at the same venue where our plan was first drawn. Your rewards will be waiting for you then."
Lord Valero rises and simply adds: "Until we meet again, brave warriors."
From this point, most tactical teams' members disperse. Dornal walks away in a pensive mood and Zern accompanies him in a noble display of comradery and understanding of one's grief. Together they move to retrieve Brother Keefe's body and ensure it receives the proper rites. Seranolla nods at Doozey and, atop her strange bird, dashes into the forest. Olisara waves at Neya and Senetir bows gently toward Graxx. They then retake their respective advisor places at Lady Dala's and Lord Valero's sides.
Aleyd approaches CRAP and Villonah and says: "Your gnome friend here has completed her penance and I am a woman of my word. I'll see her at my desk tomorrow morning for proper documentation but, after that, she'll be free to go. Now, if you excuse me, I have plenty of prisoners to bring justice to."She clearly sees it as her duty to ensure the scores of prisoners are properly taken into Black Fist premises for sentencing and imprisonment, or perhaps worst. Aleyd shakes Utar's hand as a way to say "farewell for now" to the whole party.
It is Villonah's turn to address CRAP: "Thank you all for helping me getting out of that mess... It was my own doing and you really didn't have to do it, but you cared and helped. Again." She pauses to take a deep breath and open a wide smile: "I'll see you all tomorrow, at that halfling family's tavern. Before that, there are a few things I need to do, as you heard. Until then!" She begins to walk away in the same direction Zern went, but turns to direct a few more words at Doozey: "And make sure you bring that proof of infernal involvement with you tomorrow. I'll be ready to buy it from you then."
(OOC: Anything CRAP would like to do here before trekking back to Phlan proper?)
Before leaving Graxx approaches Aleyd humbly after the handshake to Utar.
"Mighty glad to be fighting on the same side... I have a humble favor to ask you. Among your prisoners there will be tribesman. They are members of my tribe, the Sky Pony tribe. They no doubt need to be punished for their crimes but all is not as it looks with them. They were traded as warrior slaves to the Drow who then had them fight alongside the cult. You may do as you wish but I would ask that you not execute them or torture them. One day I will slay the current Chieftain and take the title for my own. Then I will break the dark bargain with these Drow and begin to free my people all over these lands as they have been scattered. Once you have taken a look at everyone's deeds I'd ask if there is anyway to free them in the future to please let me know. If that's through a payment of gold, or through a deed you need done. Just... Just let know and I'll do all I can to make it happen."
Having little energy for more than a two-fingered salute, Doozey was otherwise content to watch Aleyd depart with a faint but grateful smile on his face. Though he would turn to regard Villonah next as addressed the group. "Yeah, well, I"ve sort of been in your place before." He replied during the pause, before then shuffling and looking away uncomfortable for a moment. After which, what started as a tired wave goodbye soon turns into him crossing his arms and giving Villonah a faux indignant look. "Of course we will. Just like our name implies, we always get Crap done right." He winks and grinned, only to moments later chuckle awkwardly at look away. "That... sounded better in my head. Uh.... See you tomorrow, Villie."
Once that interaction concludes, Doozey takes a moment to look around for any signs of Caah, and upon seeing her, if at all, notes her expression and condition, before then turning to follow after the others to town.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Captain Aleyd H. Burral listens to Graxx attentively. She waits for the warrior to finish his request and justification before responding assertively but sincerely: "You speak wisely and I am sure you would be a better chieftain to your people than one that allows them to be enslaved. Nonetheless, your former companions will be judged and sentenced as seen appropriate by the marshal law procedures currently in place within Phlan. I will make sure to take into account that they may have been part of this foul cult by having little or no other choice, but I cannot guarantee at this time that they will escape capital punishment. Much depends on the extent of their actual crimes and whether they feel any remorse. If I have heard anything about the tribesmen of the north, however, is that they can be a proud people. I doubt remorse is a common sentiment among your tribe members."
She thinks for a moment and then finishes her piece: "If any of them can be appropriately punished by imprisonment alone, you may then seek me at a later time and inquire about acts or donations that would help reduce their sentence. Perhaps a similar arrangement to the one involving Villonah Leadstopper. The law allows for that sort of flexibility under the discretion of an officer. Luckily for you, I am captain, and we happen to be on the same side of this conflict." This last tidbit is Aleyd's attempt at some discreet humor. She has a faint smile as she delivers that line.
Villonah laughs at Doozey's confident statement about crap. She enjoyed that little joke. By the time she turns to leave, she is still chuckling a bit.
(@Ori: Doozey knows that Caah was struck down during the fight so, even if no one told him that they saw her in the healing/treatment tent, he'd likely deduce that to be a good place to look for the half-orc. That said, this tent in several dozen yards away from the place where the nobles were debriefing. Do you want to go that way?)
Doozey would... resist the temptation. Unless the group's exit naturally would take them past the tent. And if did so, he only peeks in long enough to check her condition prior to them moving on to the long road back to Phlan.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
DM's Screen:
4916
The party says their simple goodbyes, knowing they are likely to see most of the others in a day's time. CRAP then agrees to hit the road, heading toward the south gate so they can trek back the same path they took when approaching the stronghold. There is something about walking a "familiar" path that just makes it feel safer.
On their way back to the the south gate, Doozey takes a quick peek into the healer's war/tent. There are many individuals inside being treated and, without specifically knowing where to look as he keeps moving, the ranger can't really pinpoint Caah within. This is also when Yalek finally approaches the party again: "Hi there. I didn't want to get too close while you were busy with all those folks. If it is fine with you, I think I'll leave this place with you... safer that way."
Fast-forwarding a bit... It takes nearly an hour for CRAP + Yalek to reach Phlan's port/wharf area again. By the time they do, it is already late-ish afternoon (think 4:30pm.) Shops will be closing soon, but many would still be willing to complete a few final quick sales for the day. Otherwise, CRAP could head to the Laughing Goblin, the seedy tavern/inn where (if I remember correctly) Doozey and Neya had already prepaid for rooms for a few nights.
(OOC: Feel free to do whatever your characters desire. The two options above were just spelled out due to previous mentions of what some of you might want to do. Keep in mind that you'd also have tomorrow's whole day to accomplish errands, as the meeting at The Tea Kettle is scheduled for supper time.)
Getting back to town Utar is a little surprised that everything that goes on to make up an ordinary day has carried on as normal. But, his normal hasn't really been all that normal for a long time now.
Looking to the others for guidance, Utar wouldn't say no to a few drinks in memory of Brother Keefe, but could well understand if their interests take them in other directions.
(OOC Don't think there's that much Utar needs to do in Phlan before heading back to the Tea Kettle tomorrow evening. I guess he'd probably want to visit the Kelemvorite temple, maybe catch up with Litta and Moneus.)
Graxx wants to go by the small shrine of Tempus to see if he catches anyone there. If not, Graxx will leave another letter saying the following;
”Hello again. This is Graxx of the Sky Pony Tribe. I will be staying at the Laughing Goblin from time to time. Will you please leave a note there letting me know where I can find you when you are not at the shrine? There are few followers of Tempus in Phlan and we should stick together.”
Neya accept Utar's invitation for a memorial toast to Brother Keefe. Afterwards, she will take a page from Doozey's book and reserve a room for a longer span of time, going one tenday at a time.
Once back in her room, she will reflect on the day, as large as it is, and the implications of the presence of a second dragon in the area. Except this one is, more or less, the exact opposite of the young one on the coast.
His counsel is his own to keep in the end. Yet, if in growing fatigue something worth worrying does come to mind, but with the others current conditions in mind, it gets filed away for the time being. Later on, and regardless of if someone broached the subject of drinks in honor of the former Kelemvorite, Doozey confesses a need to head to the shops to restock on supplies, as tomorrow promised to be rather busy for the group. Then, it would be to the temple for him to check up on Biscuit.
"I... It is the strangest feeling. I don't know why, but.... I need to him before the night's over. But, uh, in my place do... I don't know what would be proper for an absentee. But if you would do what it would be in my stead, that would be appreciated. I'll be back later." He says, and if by happenstance he got to join Graxx en-route to his own destination, then he happily does so. But if not, he parts way nodding to the others, and patting the taller man on the leg prior to make his way.
(@Lerus: He probably can only reach one of these shops in time. So, priority would go to the alchemist shop, or its closest available equivalent he went to last to get the alchemist fire. If they have any other strange potions or concoctions available as well, he'd look into it. But otherwise, he would restock on the following:
2 Alchemist Fire Flask - 50gp Supplies necessary to try and make a smoke sling bullet (or closest equivalent with experimentation) - ? Supplies necessary to try and make at least one experimental explosive bolt - ? 4 Potions of Healing(Normal) - 200gp
(He won't try to haggle if it'll save him time and give him a chance to find a herbalist shop next to try and buy at least normal potions. Priority, however would go to the alchemy shop)
If his shopping can conclude without incident, his next stop is the temple, assuming the doors would not be closed to the outsiders by then. In which after greeting the priests, and inquiring into his old lute. If it had not been sold away by then, then he hoped to inquire into getting it back in exchange for a whole 10 Platinum being donated to the temple. If such is not possible, he merely bowed his head in understanding and still relinquished the coin out of thanks for previous service. Try to, anyways...
Though ultimately, the inquiry was a distraction. If biscuit and Brother Tyree hadn't intercepted him beforehand, it is after this that he finally sought the pair out. It is then that without conscious thought when given a chance to interact with Biscuit that Doozey, Taters(having popped out at some point), and Biscuit eyes suddenly are subsumed by a pale green light...
What follows is something Doozey had to trust the word of any onlookers at the time. Who in telling the tale would remark on the trio having entered some trance state that compelled them to walk in a wide circle. Their forms gradually blurring as wind, leaves, dust, and the salty scent of the sea began to fill the area. There was magical lights, an impromptu dance number, and one could even swear a spectral, clownfish colored serpent had joined in too from out of nowhere at some point before in one great flash, Doozey sat at the center of the former circle.
When Doozey came to Biscuit is gone, and Taters had undergone some kind of transformation that left him white furred, white winged tipped black, absent of a horn, but possessed of a longer, lithe tail and sharp, black nails fit for shredding prey. When his eyes inevitably meet "Taters", it is more than just a far greater intelligence sensed behind the dark blue pools.
"Biscuit...?" He rasped, throat far more than he recalled it ever being. Taters cocked his head at that, and then slowly nodded as if not quite certain. Still, the feeling was there, and its to Brother Tyree he looks to next with an awkward grin. "Guess you don't have worry about Biscuit, eh?"
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(OOC: There's plenty going on here so we'll take these posts in parts. Not all that you have mentioned above will get resolved right away, but if I forget something in my posts in the next few days, please remind me.)
DM's Screen:
1144
BEFORE LEAVING THE STRONGHOLD
Doozey raises his brow as Yalek expresses his desire to leave alongside CRAP (@Doozey):
For those like you who have fought alongside him, it is easy to tell that Yalek has indeed been keeping a low profile during the debrief and healing tent portions of the recent gatherings. You feel like his desire to not be singled out while these proceedings are happening is indeed genuine. This is not surprising, as you understand that he is a spy. His desire to leave with CRAP is objectively rational: were he to be singled out, CRAP is in the best possible position to support his claim that he is on your side after all. Travelling alone in the woods is a bad idea too, so there is that. All of this said, the half-orc seems to be omitting some information in his reasoning. Whether this is because he simply does not fully trust CRAP yet or because he has nefarious intentions of his own, well, that is too hard to tell at this time.
AT PHLAN'S WHARF
Utar breaks the silence once the group of five humanoids and one bunny comes to a stop. He proposes that they take a moment to honor Brother Keefe and, being just a few steps away from The Laughing Goblin, that tavern seems as good as any. Neya agrees and Graxx mentions he would like to run a quick errand before getting a drink. Doozey's mind seems focused elsewhere. The halfling mumbles through an apology and mentions he has a few things in his to-do list that cannot wait. He asks for the others to hold a cup up on his behalf. Finally, still with the party at this point, Yalek says: "I didn't know the fella, but I could certainly use a drink."
With that, Doozey and Graxx walk out of the port/wharf area of the city while Neya, Utar, and Yalek walk into the tavern. Doozey and Graxx walk together for a few blocks until their paths diverge. Doozey taps a "see you later" on Graxx's legs and continues onward.
AT THE SHRINE TO TEMPUS:
Graxx arrives at the shrine and finds it mostly in the same state that he found it last time. There is one key difference, however: the first letter he left at the shrine is no longer there. He can only hope that the shrine attendant got it, as he had intended. Graxx looks around to see if any of the surrounding individuals either approach him or happen to obviously look like a shrine attendant. Once he realizes he is not that lucky, he writes another quick note and leaves it at the shrine as he did once before.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
AT THE LAUGHING GOBLIN INN/TAVERN:
Neya immediately dashes off to the elven-named human host/barkeep and requests a room on the second floor. The typically timid Imizael accepts Neya's prepayment for a full tenday worth of lodging in a private room, pricing it at exactly 10 gold pieces, if paid up front.
Meanwhile, Utar finds a table to waves at Fat Mar, the jolly and robust waiter at the tavern floor. He takes Utar's and Yalek's drink orders and promises to be back in a few minutes. Neya eventually joins the table, already holding a drink she ordered directly from Imizael. Before long, Graxx also shows up and takes a sit. Fat Mar takes his time but eventually brings all that the group orders, including an extra serving of grog to represent Doozey's cup.
(OOC: Please deduct the amount of coinage shown in tonight's menu depending on what you ordered. Someone will need to cover Doozey's drink as well.)
Steamed Hare and Cabbage Salad (7 silver pieces)
Pickled Shellfish and Wheat Bread (8 silver pieces)
Vegetable Stew (7 copper pieces)
Boiled Mutton and Dried Watercress (15 silver pieces)
Tankard of Bitter Beer (5 silver pieces)
Mug of Stout Ale (5 silver pieces)
A Glass of Perry (8 silver pieces)
A Cup Black Tea (3 silver pieces)
(OOC: If you'd like to RP the toast to Brother Keefe, please go ahead. We'll get to what happens after homage is paid after that.)
AT THE ALCHIMIST'S SHOP:
DM's Screen:
55962
Doozey arrives at the shop as the clerk is preparing to close for the day. The person behind the counter this time is a young human woman with a light scar on her forehead and badly-cut bangs that attempt to hide it. She is annoyed at first that she'll have to work a bit longer but seems a bit happier once she notices that Doozey knows exactly what he wants and appears to be in a little bit of a hurry himself.
Over the next several minutes, the halfling purchases two flaks of alchemist's fire (100gp), four doses of healing potions (200gp), and some powdery substance which the young lady assures poofs up like ground chalk if thrown in the air (10gp.) Doozey also asks about a strange liquid he spots in one of the shelves. The red in the concoction's liquid continuously expands from a tiny bead to color the clear liquid around it and then contracts. The young lady explains that this strange liquid is a serving of Potion of Growth (270gp.)
After business is concluded at the alchemist's shop, Doozey tries to rush to the herbalist's store but finds it already closed.
(@Ori: The powdery purchase is the main ingredient for smoke bullets, but we'll get to that roll later once you are ready to experiment. Also, let me know whether Doozey bought the additional concoction or not. Finally, we'll get to the temple portion of your post soon.)
A bit disappointed he did not make it to the herbalist's shop before it closed, Doozey walks toward the Temple of the Hand to hopefully cross out the next item in his to-do list. The walk is a lonely one, as Taters has kept it to himself inside the halfling's bag in this somewhat chilly evening. Doozey finds the temple doors open, as they always are at any time of day or night. Sister Ahkt is the one in vigil this evening, busy meditating and receiving any visitors that may come in during the night. A look of familiarity takes over her face once she sees Doozey enter.
She welcomes the ranger politely but, before she can offer any sort of help, Doozey is already explaining that he would like to make a donation and that he hopes it can be met with some goodwill in the form of a returned lute. Sister Ahkt graciously accepts, takin 10pp from the halfling and promising to retrieve his lute soon. Before she can leave, however, Biscuit comes bounding into the chamber, almost dragging Brother Tyree along. The Brother explains that the mastiff came running as soon as he sensed Doozey's scent and then proceeds to explain why Biscuit is on a leash: "He can be hard to control without you around... and is quite the big fella... I hope you don't mind." For what is worth, Biscuit does not seem bothered by it, though it could simply be the masking effect of the sudden happiness that overtook the dog after seeing Doozey.
Doozey does not have time to react. A strange ritual initiates on its own (insert @Ori's description here.) When the halfling opens his eyes next, he is in one of the cots he had previously slept in within the temple. Sister Ahkt spends some time explaining what transpired, adding that Doozey was unconscious for the better part of two hours. Brother Tyree stands nearby, looking dumbfounded and holding Doozey's lute. The Sister then recommends that Doozey stays for the night, just to be sure all is well.
(OOC: So, just to be sure we cover it, who's is paying for the drink you are raising in Doozey's behalf?)
Once Fat Mar brings all drink (and food?) orders, it falls to Utar to break the silence again. In a short but sweet statement, the Tormite honors the fallen Kelemvorite, as well as other absent friends. Graxx and Neya add their own short goodbyes to the homage, and then look at Yalek in expectation. The half-orc raises his glass of Perry, searches for appropriate words in his mind, and then finally adds: "And thanks for his contributions to today's victory."
For the next several hours, the two humans and two half-orcs drink, eat, converse, and commiserate. There is a little awkwardness about it all since Yalek doesn't really belong to the group, but he certainly looked liked he needed some downtime and is doing his best to behave in a friendly manner.
Before it gets too late, and already with their heads feeling a bit drowsy due to tiredness and alcohol consumption, the group decides to call it a night. Fat Mar makes it easy on the group by adding the charge for three more rooms to the party's bill, and hands each of the three men a room key.
(OOC: Neya already had her key. Graxx and Utar need to each deduct 1gp to pay for their own rooms for the night. Yalek will do the same.)
Neya goes to her room, reflecting on the significance of today's events in the play for power in the Moonsea Region, and how two dragons might play their roles. Utar lies on his bed, sketching in his head a plan to visit the Valhingen Graveyard (where the Kelemvorites worship) in the morning and maybe get a message to Moneus and Litta. Graxx washes his face in a washtub placed in his room, hoping to hear from the shrine attendant sooner rather than later. Yalek stumbles into his own room, showing no embarrassment in being the drunkest of the group.
(OOC: If there is anything you'd like to do before going to sleep, now is the time to mention it. Either way, please refrain from completing a Long Rest in your character sheets just yet. We'll get to that, as well as some XP accounting, soon. This is valid for Doozey as well.)
CRAP and all others present agree to call it day. Lady Dala speaks once more: "Then it is agreed. Let us all meet tomorrow evening, at the same venue where our plan was first drawn. Your rewards will be waiting for you then."
Lord Valero rises and simply adds: "Until we meet again, brave warriors."
From this point, most tactical teams' members disperse. Dornal walks away in a pensive mood and Zern accompanies him in a noble display of comradery and understanding of one's grief. Together they move to retrieve Brother Keefe's body and ensure it receives the proper rites. Seranolla nods at Doozey and, atop her strange bird, dashes into the forest. Olisara waves at Neya and Senetir bows gently toward Graxx. They then retake their respective advisor places at Lady Dala's and Lord Valero's sides.
Aleyd approaches CRAP and Villonah and says: "Your gnome friend here has completed her penance and I am a woman of my word. I'll see her at my desk tomorrow morning for proper documentation but, after that, she'll be free to go. Now, if you excuse me, I have plenty of prisoners to bring justice to." She clearly sees it as her duty to ensure the scores of prisoners are properly taken into Black Fist premises for sentencing and imprisonment, or perhaps worst. Aleyd shakes Utar's hand as a way to say "farewell for now" to the whole party.
It is Villonah's turn to address CRAP: "Thank you all for helping me getting out of that mess... It was my own doing and you really didn't have to do it, but you cared and helped. Again." She pauses to take a deep breath and open a wide smile: "I'll see you all tomorrow, at that halfling family's tavern. Before that, there are a few things I need to do, as you heard. Until then!" She begins to walk away in the same direction Zern went, but turns to direct a few more words at Doozey: "And make sure you bring that proof of infernal involvement with you tomorrow. I'll be ready to buy it from you then."
(OOC: Anything CRAP would like to do here before trekking back to Phlan proper?)
Before leaving Graxx approaches Aleyd humbly after the handshake to Utar.
"Mighty glad to be fighting on the same side... I have a humble favor to ask you. Among your prisoners there will be tribesman. They are members of my tribe, the Sky Pony tribe. They no doubt need to be punished for their crimes but all is not as it looks with them. They were traded as warrior slaves to the Drow who then had them fight alongside the cult. You may do as you wish but I would ask that you not execute them or torture them. One day I will slay the current Chieftain and take the title for my own. Then I will break the dark bargain with these Drow and begin to free my people all over these lands as they have been scattered. Once you have taken a look at everyone's deeds I'd ask if there is anyway to free them in the future to please let me know. If that's through a payment of gold, or through a deed you need done. Just... Just let know and I'll do all I can to make it happen."
Having little energy for more than a two-fingered salute, Doozey was otherwise content to watch Aleyd depart with a faint but grateful smile on his face. Though he would turn to regard Villonah next as addressed the group. "Yeah, well, I"ve sort of been in your place before." He replied during the pause, before then shuffling and looking away uncomfortable for a moment. After which, what started as a tired wave goodbye soon turns into him crossing his arms and giving Villonah a faux indignant look. "Of course we will. Just like our name implies, we always get Crap done right." He winks and grinned, only to moments later chuckle awkwardly at look away. "That... sounded better in my head. Uh.... See you tomorrow, Villie."
Once that interaction concludes, Doozey takes a moment to look around for any signs of Caah, and upon seeing her, if at all, notes her expression and condition, before then turning to follow after the others to town.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Captain Aleyd H. Burral listens to Graxx attentively. She waits for the warrior to finish his request and justification before responding assertively but sincerely: "You speak wisely and I am sure you would be a better chieftain to your people than one that allows them to be enslaved. Nonetheless, your former companions will be judged and sentenced as seen appropriate by the marshal law procedures currently in place within Phlan. I will make sure to take into account that they may have been part of this foul cult by having little or no other choice, but I cannot guarantee at this time that they will escape capital punishment. Much depends on the extent of their actual crimes and whether they feel any remorse. If I have heard anything about the tribesmen of the north, however, is that they can be a proud people. I doubt remorse is a common sentiment among your tribe members."
She thinks for a moment and then finishes her piece: "If any of them can be appropriately punished by imprisonment alone, you may then seek me at a later time and inquire about acts or donations that would help reduce their sentence. Perhaps a similar arrangement to the one involving Villonah Leadstopper. The law allows for that sort of flexibility under the discretion of an officer. Luckily for you, I am captain, and we happen to be on the same side of this conflict." This last tidbit is Aleyd's attempt at some discreet humor. She has a faint smile as she delivers that line.
Villonah laughs at Doozey's confident statement about crap. She enjoyed that little joke. By the time she turns to leave, she is still chuckling a bit.
(@Ori: Doozey knows that Caah was struck down during the fight so, even if no one told him that they saw her in the healing/treatment tent, he'd likely deduce that to be a good place to look for the half-orc. That said, this tent in several dozen yards away from the place where the nobles were debriefing. Do you want to go that way?)
Doozey would... resist the temptation. Unless the group's exit naturally would take them past the tent. And if did so, he only peeks in long enough to check her condition prior to them moving on to the long road back to Phlan.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Having no other business at the castle, Utar says his goodbyes and waits on the others before heading back to Phlan.
Graxx’s chest tightens at the Captains words but he accepts them. He has nothing else left to do and is ready to proceed.
Neya wishes the representatives of the nobles and their stewards farewell and gets ready to leave the fallen fort.
Extended Signature
DM's Screen:
49 16
The party says their simple goodbyes, knowing they are likely to see most of the others in a day's time. CRAP then agrees to hit the road, heading toward the south gate so they can trek back the same path they took when approaching the stronghold. There is something about walking a "familiar" path that just makes it feel safer.
On their way back to the the south gate, Doozey takes a quick peek into the healer's war/tent. There are many individuals inside being treated and, without specifically knowing where to look as he keeps moving, the ranger can't really pinpoint Caah within. This is also when Yalek finally approaches the party again: "Hi there. I didn't want to get too close while you were busy with all those folks. If it is fine with you, I think I'll leave this place with you... safer that way."
Fast-forwarding a bit... It takes nearly an hour for CRAP + Yalek to reach Phlan's port/wharf area again. By the time they do, it is already late-ish afternoon (think 4:30pm.) Shops will be closing soon, but many would still be willing to complete a few final quick sales for the day. Otherwise, CRAP could head to the Laughing Goblin, the seedy tavern/inn where (if I remember correctly) Doozey and Neya had already prepaid for rooms for a few nights.
(OOC: Feel free to do whatever your characters desire. The two options above were just spelled out due to previous mentions of what some of you might want to do. Keep in mind that you'd also have tomorrow's whole day to accomplish errands, as the meeting at The Tea Kettle is scheduled for supper time.)
Getting back to town Utar is a little surprised that everything that goes on to make up an ordinary day has carried on as normal. But, his normal hasn't really been all that normal for a long time now.
Looking to the others for guidance, Utar wouldn't say no to a few drinks in memory of Brother Keefe, but could well understand if their interests take them in other directions.
(OOC Don't think there's that much Utar needs to do in Phlan before heading back to the Tea Kettle tomorrow evening. I guess he'd probably want to visit the Kelemvorite temple, maybe catch up with Litta and Moneus.)
Graxx wants to go by the small shrine of Tempus to see if he catches anyone there. If not, Graxx will leave another letter saying the following;
”Hello again. This is Graxx of the Sky Pony Tribe. I will be staying at the Laughing Goblin from time to time. Will you please leave a note there letting me know where I can find you when you are not at the shrine? There are few followers of Tempus in Phlan and we should stick together.”
Straight 20 Roll if needed: 10
Neya accept Utar's invitation for a memorial toast to Brother Keefe. Afterwards, she will take a page from Doozey's book and reserve a room for a longer span of time, going one tenday at a time.
Once back in her room, she will reflect on the day, as large as it is, and the implications of the presence of a second dragon in the area. Except this one is, more or less, the exact opposite of the young one on the coast.
Extended Signature
Doozey raises a brow at Yalek, and took a moment to study the half-orc...
Insight: 7.
His counsel is his own to keep in the end. Yet, if in growing fatigue something worth worrying does come to mind, but with the others current conditions in mind, it gets filed away for the time being. Later on, and regardless of if someone broached the subject of drinks in honor of the former Kelemvorite, Doozey confesses a need to head to the shops to restock on supplies, as tomorrow promised to be rather busy for the group. Then, it would be to the temple for him to check up on Biscuit.
"I... It is the strangest feeling. I don't know why, but.... I need to him before the night's over. But, uh, in my place do... I don't know what would be proper for an absentee. But if you would do what it would be in my stead, that would be appreciated. I'll be back later." He says, and if by happenstance he got to join Graxx en-route to his own destination, then he happily does so. But if not, he parts way nodding to the others, and patting the taller man on the leg prior to make his way.
(@Lerus: He probably can only reach one of these shops in time. So, priority would go to the alchemist shop, or its closest available equivalent he went to last to get the alchemist fire. If they have any other strange potions or concoctions available as well, he'd look into it. But otherwise, he would restock on the following:
2 Alchemist Fire Flask - 50gp
Supplies necessary to try and make a smoke sling bullet (or closest equivalent with experimentation) - ?
Supplies necessary to try and make at least one experimental explosive bolt - ?
4 Potions of Healing(Normal) - 200gp
(He won't try to haggle if it'll save him time and give him a chance to find a herbalist shop next to try and buy at least normal potions. Priority, however would go to the alchemy shop)
If his shopping can conclude without incident, his next stop is the temple, assuming the doors would not be closed to the outsiders by then. In which after greeting the priests, and inquiring into his old lute. If it had not been sold away by then, then he hoped to inquire into getting it back in exchange for a whole 10 Platinum being donated to the temple. If such is not possible, he merely bowed his head in understanding and still relinquished the coin out of thanks for previous service. Try to, anyways...
Though ultimately, the inquiry was a distraction. If biscuit and Brother Tyree hadn't intercepted him beforehand, it is after this that he finally sought the pair out. It is then that without conscious thought when given a chance to interact with Biscuit that Doozey, Taters(having popped out at some point), and Biscuit eyes suddenly are subsumed by a pale green light...
What follows is something Doozey had to trust the word of any onlookers at the time. Who in telling the tale would remark on the trio having entered some trance state that compelled them to walk in a wide circle. Their forms gradually blurring as wind, leaves, dust, and the salty scent of the sea began to fill the area. There was magical lights, an impromptu dance number, and one could even swear a spectral, clownfish colored serpent had joined in too from out of nowhere at some point before in one great flash, Doozey sat at the center of the former circle.
When Doozey came to Biscuit is gone, and Taters had undergone some kind of transformation that left him white furred, white winged tipped black, absent of a horn, but possessed of a longer, lithe tail and sharp, black nails fit for shredding prey. When his eyes inevitably meet "Taters", it is more than just a far greater intelligence sensed behind the dark blue pools.
"Biscuit...?" He rasped, throat far more than he recalled it ever being. Taters cocked his head at that, and then slowly nodded as if not quite certain. Still, the feeling was there, and its to Brother Tyree he looks to next with an awkward grin. "Guess you don't have worry about Biscuit, eh?"
Imagery:
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
(OOC: There's plenty going on here so we'll take these posts in parts. Not all that you have mentioned above will get resolved right away, but if I forget something in my posts in the next few days, please remind me.)
DM's Screen:
11 44
BEFORE LEAVING THE STRONGHOLD
Doozey raises his brow as Yalek expresses his desire to leave alongside CRAP (@Doozey):
For those like you who have fought alongside him, it is easy to tell that Yalek has indeed been keeping a low profile during the debrief and healing tent portions of the recent gatherings. You feel like his desire to not be singled out while these proceedings are happening is indeed genuine. This is not surprising, as you understand that he is a spy. His desire to leave with CRAP is objectively rational: were he to be singled out, CRAP is in the best possible position to support his claim that he is on your side after all. Travelling alone in the woods is a bad idea too, so there is that. All of this said, the half-orc seems to be omitting some information in his reasoning. Whether this is because he simply does not fully trust CRAP yet or because he has nefarious intentions of his own, well, that is too hard to tell at this time.
AT PHLAN'S WHARF
Utar breaks the silence once the group of five humanoids and one bunny comes to a stop. He proposes that they take a moment to honor Brother Keefe and, being just a few steps away from The Laughing Goblin, that tavern seems as good as any. Neya agrees and Graxx mentions he would like to run a quick errand before getting a drink. Doozey's mind seems focused elsewhere. The halfling mumbles through an apology and mentions he has a few things in his to-do list that cannot wait. He asks for the others to hold a cup up on his behalf. Finally, still with the party at this point, Yalek says: "I didn't know the fella, but I could certainly use a drink."
With that, Doozey and Graxx walk out of the port/wharf area of the city while Neya, Utar, and Yalek walk into the tavern. Doozey and Graxx walk together for a few blocks until their paths diverge. Doozey taps a "see you later" on Graxx's legs and continues onward.
AT THE SHRINE TO TEMPUS:
Graxx arrives at the shrine and finds it mostly in the same state that he found it last time. There is one key difference, however: the first letter he left at the shrine is no longer there. He can only hope that the shrine attendant got it, as he had intended. Graxx looks around to see if any of the surrounding individuals either approach him or happen to obviously look like a shrine attendant. Once he realizes he is not that lucky, he writes another quick note and leaves it at the shrine as he did once before.
AT THE LAUGHING GOBLIN INN/TAVERN:
Neya immediately dashes off to the elven-named human host/barkeep and requests a room on the second floor. The typically timid Imizael accepts Neya's prepayment for a full tenday worth of lodging in a private room, pricing it at exactly 10 gold pieces, if paid up front.
Meanwhile, Utar finds a table to waves at Fat Mar, the jolly and robust waiter at the tavern floor. He takes Utar's and Yalek's drink orders and promises to be back in a few minutes. Neya eventually joins the table, already holding a drink she ordered directly from Imizael. Before long, Graxx also shows up and takes a sit. Fat Mar takes his time but eventually brings all that the group orders, including an extra serving of grog to represent Doozey's cup.
(OOC: If you'd like to RP the toast to Brother Keefe, please go ahead. We'll get to what happens after homage is paid after that.)
AT THE ALCHIMIST'S SHOP:
DM's Screen:
55 9 62
Doozey arrives at the shop as the clerk is preparing to close for the day. The person behind the counter this time is a young human woman with a light scar on her forehead and badly-cut bangs that attempt to hide it. She is annoyed at first that she'll have to work a bit longer but seems a bit happier once she notices that Doozey knows exactly what he wants and appears to be in a little bit of a hurry himself.
Over the next several minutes, the halfling purchases two flaks of alchemist's fire (100gp), four doses of healing potions (200gp), and some powdery substance which the young lady assures poofs up like ground chalk if thrown in the air (10gp.) Doozey also asks about a strange liquid he spots in one of the shelves. The red in the concoction's liquid continuously expands from a tiny bead to color the clear liquid around it and then contracts. The young lady explains that this strange liquid is a serving of Potion of Growth (270gp.)
After business is concluded at the alchemist's shop, Doozey tries to rush to the herbalist's store but finds it already closed.
(@Ori: The powdery purchase is the main ingredient for smoke bullets, but we'll get to that roll later once you are ready to experiment. Also, let me know whether Doozey bought the additional concoction or not. Finally, we'll get to the temple portion of your post soon.)
Utar takes a mug of bitter beer and looks around the buzz of activity going on around the tavern. Looking to Graxx and Neya, he takes a deep breath.
"Likely everyone in this town owes a debt to Keefe and I doubt any will ever know of it. He seemed a good man and I wish I knew him better."
Raising his mug he offers, "To absent friends."
Graxx raises his mug, “May his God guide him to peace!”
Neya raises her drink (she's having bitter beer as well) and says, "And may we meet again, in another life.'
Extended Signature
AT THE HOUSE OF THE HAND
A bit disappointed he did not make it to the herbalist's shop before it closed, Doozey walks toward the Temple of the Hand to hopefully cross out the next item in his to-do list. The walk is a lonely one, as Taters has kept it to himself inside the halfling's bag in this somewhat chilly evening. Doozey finds the temple doors open, as they always are at any time of day or night. Sister Ahkt is the one in vigil this evening, busy meditating and receiving any visitors that may come in during the night. A look of familiarity takes over her face once she sees Doozey enter.
She welcomes the ranger politely but, before she can offer any sort of help, Doozey is already explaining that he would like to make a donation and that he hopes it can be met with some goodwill in the form of a returned lute. Sister Ahkt graciously accepts, takin 10pp from the halfling and promising to retrieve his lute soon. Before she can leave, however, Biscuit comes bounding into the chamber, almost dragging Brother Tyree along. The Brother explains that the mastiff came running as soon as he sensed Doozey's scent and then proceeds to explain why Biscuit is on a leash: "He can be hard to control without you around... and is quite the big fella... I hope you don't mind." For what is worth, Biscuit does not seem bothered by it, though it could simply be the masking effect of the sudden happiness that overtook the dog after seeing Doozey.
Doozey does not have time to react. A strange ritual initiates on its own (insert @Ori's description here.) When the halfling opens his eyes next, he is in one of the cots he had previously slept in within the temple. Sister Ahkt spends some time explaining what transpired, adding that Doozey was unconscious for the better part of two hours. Brother Tyree stands nearby, looking dumbfounded and holding Doozey's lute. The Sister then recommends that Doozey stays for the night, just to be sure all is well.
AT THE LAUGHING GOBLIN
(OOC: So, just to be sure we cover it, who's is paying for the drink you are raising in Doozey's behalf?)
Once Fat Mar brings all drink (and food?) orders, it falls to Utar to break the silence again. In a short but sweet statement, the Tormite honors the fallen Kelemvorite, as well as other absent friends. Graxx and Neya add their own short goodbyes to the homage, and then look at Yalek in expectation. The half-orc raises his glass of Perry, searches for appropriate words in his mind, and then finally adds: "And thanks for his contributions to today's victory."
For the next several hours, the two humans and two half-orcs drink, eat, converse, and commiserate. There is a little awkwardness about it all since Yalek doesn't really belong to the group, but he certainly looked liked he needed some downtime and is doing his best to behave in a friendly manner.
Before it gets too late, and already with their heads feeling a bit drowsy due to tiredness and alcohol consumption, the group decides to call it a night. Fat Mar makes it easy on the group by adding the charge for three more rooms to the party's bill, and hands each of the three men a room key.
(OOC: Neya already had her key. Graxx and Utar need to each deduct 1gp to pay for their own rooms for the night. Yalek will do the same.)
Neya goes to her room, reflecting on the significance of today's events in the play for power in the Moonsea Region, and how two dragons might play their roles. Utar lies on his bed, sketching in his head a plan to visit the Valhingen Graveyard (where the Kelemvorites worship) in the morning and maybe get a message to Moneus and Litta. Graxx washes his face in a washtub placed in his room, hoping to hear from the shrine attendant sooner rather than later. Yalek stumbles into his own room, showing no embarrassment in being the drunkest of the group.
(OOC: If there is anything you'd like to do before going to sleep, now is the time to mention it. Either way, please refrain from completing a Long Rest in your character sheets just yet. We'll get to that, as well as some XP accounting, soon. This is valid for Doozey as well.)