Though he tuned in to the other conversation flustered, any embarrassment soon dies as it continues into more trouble territory. Thoughtlessly, he even began rubbing his chin in thought, uncaring by that point if it was the right expression or not for "idle conversation" with Villonah. Thankfully, though he still yet might miss Graxx' initial response, a natural break in Hakmar's last words provide a moment to slip back into his own senses.
"Villie, I, uh.... Sorry, please continue." Is all he gets out before dipping back into Tater's senses, who had dutifully continued to monitor the situation.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Utar looks about for a volunteer to speak after Velero's initial words, eventually finding one in Neya. After the monk delivers her piece, Olisara's turn comes up: "A good question, but I would not be so sure that's the right way to think about the answer. The two forests are indeed quite far from each other, but this is a very old dragon we are talking about. A trek that would take any of us months to complete would certainly take such a large beast only a fraction of that, especially if flying in a straight line."
Zern speaks next: "Not only that, but green dragons are, by nature, quite the petty creatures. Vengeance, influence, and manipulation are as much a driving force in their decision making as hoarding treasure. Depending on how deep and ancient the history between Claugiyliamatar and House Brokengulf is, she might value making their life a slow misery more than anything else."
Dornal pipes up: "But we cannot dismiss Ms. Neya's point. The dragon may as well be trying to catch two rabbits in a single trap. Or more even. Who knows what other schemes it might be weaving. I am sure the presence of the CUlt in our region is no coincidence."
Aleyd is next: "And who's to say a dragon can only maintain a single lair. If a green dragon seeks influence, maintaining several lairs across the land is not a bad way to achieve just that."
Valero is slowly calming down. Dala is still tending to him and listening to the others.
Graxx asks about Edith, but receives only silence from Hakmar. Graxx knows this to mean that his former instructor does not know his grandmother's fate. Although, judging by the story Hakmar just told, it wouldn't be too much of a leap to assume Edith was sent to the Underdark, just as Graxx fears.
On the topic of being labelled a traitor, Hakmar says: "You left. Auroch took the chance to label you a traitor for that simple reason. Uniting the youth seemed easier if the simple act of wandering was labeled as being traitorous."
Concerning the dragon, Hakmar simply concludes: "Then find wings, warrior of Tempus." His wise but simple words are enough for Graxx to note that Hakmar does not consider him a traitor. Hakmar does not argue against the affirmation that he'll be imprisoned.
(@Grx: Please give me a religion check with advantage.)
Taters and Doozey continue to listen in. Villonah is playing her part.
Senetir is using his rank as direct advisor to Lord Velero Brokengulf to command the soldiers around. The prisoners are being treated with dignity. Once records are completed, they begin to lead the prisoners toward the northeast gate. Senitir nods at Graxx as he passes, trusting the tribesman to bring Hakmar along when he's ready. Seranolla follows the soldiers atop her strange mount.
Clearing his throat, Utar decides to finally address the nobles. Everyone else managed it, why can't he?
"Putting talk of dragons to one side for now, might we be better taking headcount and sharing information? How did the other groups fair? What next steps do we take?"
Graxx mulls his mind trying to think of what this wise one has said.
"Thank you for telling me, Hakmar... It seems what I have always knew to be true is coming quickly. I knew I would have to travel to the Underdark and eliminate the Drow that threaten our people. Even if I was able to defeat Aurock our people would not be safe... And I could not sleep knowing our people were slaves in the dark."
Graxx points to his belt.
"I've slowly been preparing for this. This belt, allows me to see in the dark and helps me resist their vile poisons... I will free us from Sel'Dren's dark bargain."
Graxx sighs...
"But first things first... I need to prove myself... I need to as you say find wings and slay this Dragon. Then our people can be free and I can try to pull our tribe back together no matter how scattered we are at the moment. Come, I must hurry the sooner I am off the sooner we can get you out of here."
Graxx starts walking back with Hakmar towards the line.
"I won't be alone in the coming battles. The warband I travel with is very powerful. I would not still be alive today and would not have grown in my skills if it wasn't for them. Stay strong and be patient my teacher."
Graxx remains standing by Hakmar in case an idea hits him.(From the religion check).
"Don't tell me yet, Villie. And sorry for interrupting, if'n I am. But, you wouldn't... er... mind considering for a bit a means we might procure wings for Graxx? Just in case?" Doozey requested, though would be blind and deaf to both his own words and answer. Still, he refrained from coming back to his own senses until he saw via Taters Graxx move as if intending to follow the procession.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
AT THE SOUTH GATE:
DM's Screen:
10
@Graxx: Although Graxx has never taken classes on the formal worship of Tempus (as in by priests in a temple) he is familiar with the idea that the clergymen and clergywomen of Tempus follow a general hierarchy. Like in many other worships, priest-to-be begin their journeys as acolytes and gain knowledge and influence over the years. Graxx does not remember all the titles these priest may acquire during their careers, but he remembers hearing that the highest of priests receive the title of "Warlyon," and that it is not uncommon for Warlyons to be blessed with the gift of flight.
"You have become a fine warrior..." Hakmar tells Graxx, "...And I am sure Tempus will guide you into becoming a better one still." With that, the old man follows Graxx back to the line of prisoners.
Villonah waits until she is sure she has Doozey's attention for a few uninterrupted seconds. She then says: "I know of no such thing, but it sounds to me like you may want to search for some sort of wizard, or perhaps an enchantress." She cocks an eyebrow and adds: "Now, tell me what you heard. I did my part so go on an spill the beans."
Utar waits for his turn to speak and, when it arrives, requests for information on the other groups. Hearing no objection from the nobles, Olisara gives her brief report: "Our path led us to a secret off-premises meeting between the Thayans and one of the Cult's factions. We learned the Red Ones were scheming with the New Cult faction in order to manipulate the Old Cult and use their resources for their own benefit. It seems that the scales were tilting toward the New Cult in their internal race to gain the hobgoblins' and Claugiyliamatar's favor, and that the Thayans were ready to jump onto the back of the winning horse. Once we dealt with them, we rode their imprisoned and sickly griffons toward the stronghold. We knew we were close when, first, eagles and owls corrupted by the Dragon attacked us, and second, when we flew over a wandering elven spirit we gather had somehow escaped being bound by the Thayan necromancers. Upon arrival at the stronghold, we were immediately confronted by the lead Thayan necromancer in the premises, the one who goes by the name of Zaralda. She was performing some sort of blood ritual which, slowly but surely, would bring back the corpses of the fallen to fight for their side once more. Our team's contribution to the final fight today was to interrupt Zaralda's ritual and bring her down. We succeeded, but some Thayans escaped. Then, Claugiyliamatar herself appeared and attacked our team first. Brother Keefe, our team's representative from the Lords' Alliance, perished in the fight against the Dragon. My own compatriot, another Harper agent, almost lost his life as well. Something stole Claugiyliamatar's attention, however, and she flew to the western part of the stronghold. Soon after that, many cultist and hobgoblin reinforcements arrived. Thankfully, so did the brave soldiers of House Brokengulf and House Silmerhelve. Losses were great on both sides, but we prevailed in the end. The Zartruss Clan eventually surrendered, but many surviving cultists fled. I would guess these fugitives were a mix of both factions within the Cult, as there seemed to be a bit of infighting taking place as they ran into the forest."
Olisara pauses and Captain Alyed fills in the silence: "Any questions before we cede the floor?"
A grimacing Doozey rubs the back of his neck, but caves beforelong a soft sigh and grudging acknowledgement of fairness. "I cannae for the life of me recall just how much of Graxx's history you've been given privvy to. But the long and short of is -- and please, refrain from speaking of this outside of our group -- Graxx's tribe got mixed up with Drow. As they wanted what... well, you probably know the stories. Graxx left to find a means to remedy the situation. But, in his absence, not that he was their leader mind you. That title belonged to a different prick. But, uh, rather than usual, the Drow returned seeking warriors to fight for the cult. And as they were a bit desperate to live again as their god Tempus wanted -- that being warriors, and not... not slaves -- many joined the cult."
He looks towards Graxx and Hakmar, and watches as the latter made their way to the procession. "Unfortunately, without some great proof and accomplishment under his belt, he cannot challenge the leader for right to rule. So, based on my earlier question, you can perhaps imagine where he's gonna get that proof." He said frankly, then motion for them to follow in the wake of the greater procession. Taters soon catches up, limping a little, but still spry enough to get back into Doozey's bag of his own accord.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Graxx takes Hakmar and drops him back off in line.
Graxx doesn’t say a word but looks Hakmar in the eyes and slowly nods.
Graxx quickly glances at the young tribal warriors and thinks of what could have been. He knows what must be done.
Graxx looks and sees Doozey and Villi. He slowly walks over.
”Thank you for uh... For waiting on me. That prisoner was my former weapon master Hakmar. I have learned a great deal about how my people got tied up in this mess. I know how to undo the knot but it’s going to be a long journey.”
Graxx runs his fingers through this hair and stops halfway through.
”What do you say we group back up with the others? I take it we’re done here?”
Unless there are any objections Graxx will begin walking in the direction he last saw Utar and Neya.
"I have none. But I will say I'm saddened by Brother Keefe's passing. He was a good man, and had helped us in our earlier adventures." Neya says with a hint of reflection.
Villonah looks pensive as Doozey helps her catch up with Graxx's trials. She simply answers: "I hope his deity of choice can guide him to victory." She thanks Doozey for explaining and sharing the information and, once Taters rejoins, nods as to motion them to start moving.
Graxx takes Hakmar back to the line and entrusts him to Senitir and Seranolla. He then takes a few steps back to meet with Doozey and Villonah, who were already walking up anyways. After a few exchanged words, they decide it is indeed time to reach the northeast gate.
Neya uses the pause that follows Alyed's question to express her condolences for Brother Keefe. Dornal speaks right after that: "If anyone here is responsible for his death, it is me. I encouraged and promoted him within the Lords' Alliance so that he could join this campaign. He was so excited..."The dwarf looks quite taken by the news.
Zern Xerkstil, the Hammer of Impiltur, comes to the rescue by changing the subject after clearing his throat audibly: "It is time for our team's report then. We ventured deep into the forest in search of the fey and confirmed we were in the right path once we came across a couple of satyrs putting an end to some hobgoblin scouts. They were corrupted and beyond any sort of reasoning so, in turn, we had to put them out of their misery. Our path confirmed, we progressed deeper into the corrupted forest and eventually reached a glade or brook of some kind, also corrupted. A large, mobile oak tree attacked us but we were convinced not to bring it down by some beautiful fey creature that had been strapped onto the oak. We battled the corruption away from them and diverted the brook. In gratitude, they showed us the way to the Fey Lord's court. The path was mystical and the steps required to reach it were certainly hard to replicate. We found ourselves surrounded by hundreds if not thousands on unseelie fey, so fighting was not an option. We used diplomacy to build on the archfey's own veiled hatred for the dragon and agreed on a temporary alliance. He teleported us into one of the towers in the stronghold. We entered a pool of water and exited a mirror. We were disoriented at first and failed to realize we were in the tower that housed the horn. Instead of fighting our way up, we fought our way out through the ground level and proceeded to engage the nearby cultists in combat, including a lieutenant named Alandra. There were many of them, as well as some hobgoblins, but they thankfully did not get many reinforcements. We advanced and managed to disable their siege weapon. Seranolla summoned a rhinoceros to bash at its weak sides. Claugiyliamatar arrived just as we were tilting the scales and defeating Alandra. Thankfully, so did the Fey Lord, the walking oak tree, and the Fey Princess. Buhrell Caah went down in the fight that ensued, as did the oak tree. The princess escaped in order to save the tree, but the archfey fought alongside us to repel the green-winged menace. By the time we turned to deal with Alandra once and for all, she had already escaped. We were left to clean up the last few cultists and hobgoblins in the area."
He pauses and then emulates Aleyd: "Any questions before I cede the floor?"
Utar lays a hand on Dornal's shoulder, hoping to offer some comfort to the dwarf.
"Way I heard it, we all owe Keefe a debt. He died a hero even if everything he's left behind feels a little dimmer."
Looking around the group, Utar pauses to see if any questions are fired towards Zern and gives him opportunity to answer before assuming that a report is now due from CRAP. Having had the other reports, Year feels about capable, especially knowing Neya can likely fill in any gaps in his recollection.
"CRAP directed their attention to waylaying one of the supply trains for the Cult of the Dragon, although before we reached the ambush location we were set upon by what we now likely assume was some kind of corrupted forest troll. Proceeding to the ambush location we eliminated a group of mercenaries employed by the cult and made contact with Chaub's Zentarim spy, Yalek. From there we disguised ourselves as members of the cult and were able to infiltrate the stronghold. We were able to barricade a number of the hired mercenaries within their barracks, preventing them from coming to their master's aid. Unfortunately we were unable to fool the hobgoblins for long and had to engage earlier than we would have liked. We eliminated those guarding the gate house and left the way open behind us. From there we moved through the complex searching for either the horn or the siege engine, engaging hobgoblins and cultists before crossing paths with Ixas, leader of the old faction of the Cult of the Dragon and Garbul, leader of the hobgoblin contingent. We felled them both although the appearance of the dragon almost put paid to our gains and turned the day. I imagine we have our compatriots to thank for the appearance of the fey lord, who likely managed to do enough to convince it that discretion is the better part of valour and to turn tail. As he left the battlefield he urged us to come visit him. Our group was luckier than others by the sounds of it. We're all still on our feet. Any questions?"
As a physically and mentally exhausted Graxx approaches the Northeast gate he will notice the formal debriefings taking place. He will remain silent until everyone is complete then add a simple...
”Barracks are secure... Prisoners have been taken. No fight was needed.”
Dornal nods at Utar in a mournful but thankful gesture. Utar then proceeds to deliver his portion of the briefing while all others listen quietly, except for when Neya corrects her half-orc companion regarding Ixas' faction alliance.
Graxx, Doozey, Villonah, and Seranolla, arrive at the briefing area around the time Utar is wrapping up. Graxx adds a comment about more prisoners and points to Senetir, who is handing them over to some sergeant from the nobles' retinue. The owl-man eventually joins the briefing as well.
With most protagonists of today's events now in one place, Lady Dala takes the stage, sort of speak: "Thank you each team for your bravery today, and for what was mostly a successful foray. We dealt a significantly blow to the green dragon's schemes this day, even if she clings to her life still. We also thinned the numbers of this occult Cult of the Dragon, and possibly gave them more reasons to fight among themselves. All of this despite having fallen straight into what we assume was an intricate trap by this old green foe. Lord Brokengulf and I are extremely thankful for your help in achieving today's victory. You shall be rewarded commensurate with your valiant efforts today."
She pauses for a moment, looks at Lord Velero, and makes a suggestion: "Whatever the next steps may be, I believe we all need some time to replenish our strength and let the information gained today be fully digested before planning next steps. Do we all concur?"
(OOC: I noticed there was no mention of Ixas' mask in that briefing. I am assuming that was on purpose.)
"Mn. No complaints here. And any suggestions I'd make would be just stating the obvious. As may be the case for most of us." Doozey added. Though a moment after eyes are on him, he fidgets uncomfortably, and only just restrain himself from hiding among the forest of tall legs.
And as mention in world's beyond their own, as far as the halfling is concerned, any missing intel would've been passed along by Utar. So, not much need to speak further yet. Right?
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"It has been a big day for all. For better, and for worse..." Neya begins, "It will do a world of good to regroup, both as a whole and as individuals."
Though he tuned in to the other conversation flustered, any embarrassment soon dies as it continues into more trouble territory. Thoughtlessly, he even began rubbing his chin in thought, uncaring by that point if it was the right expression or not for "idle conversation" with Villonah. Thankfully, though he still yet might miss Graxx' initial response, a natural break in Hakmar's last words provide a moment to slip back into his own senses.
"Villie, I, uh.... Sorry, please continue." Is all he gets out before dipping back into Tater's senses, who had dutifully continued to monitor the situation.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
AT THE NORTHEAST GATE:
Utar looks about for a volunteer to speak after Velero's initial words, eventually finding one in Neya. After the monk delivers her piece, Olisara's turn comes up: "A good question, but I would not be so sure that's the right way to think about the answer. The two forests are indeed quite far from each other, but this is a very old dragon we are talking about. A trek that would take any of us months to complete would certainly take such a large beast only a fraction of that, especially if flying in a straight line."
Zern speaks next: "Not only that, but green dragons are, by nature, quite the petty creatures. Vengeance, influence, and manipulation are as much a driving force in their decision making as hoarding treasure. Depending on how deep and ancient the history between Claugiyliamatar and House Brokengulf is, she might value making their life a slow misery more than anything else."
Dornal pipes up: "But we cannot dismiss Ms. Neya's point. The dragon may as well be trying to catch two rabbits in a single trap. Or more even. Who knows what other schemes it might be weaving. I am sure the presence of the CUlt in our region is no coincidence."
Aleyd is next: "And who's to say a dragon can only maintain a single lair. If a green dragon seeks influence, maintaining several lairs across the land is not a bad way to achieve just that."
Valero is slowly calming down. Dala is still tending to him and listening to the others.
AT THE SOUTH GATE:
Graxx asks about Edith, but receives only silence from Hakmar. Graxx knows this to mean that his former instructor does not know his grandmother's fate. Although, judging by the story Hakmar just told, it wouldn't be too much of a leap to assume Edith was sent to the Underdark, just as Graxx fears.
On the topic of being labelled a traitor, Hakmar says: "You left. Auroch took the chance to label you a traitor for that simple reason. Uniting the youth seemed easier if the simple act of wandering was labeled as being traitorous."
Concerning the dragon, Hakmar simply concludes: "Then find wings, warrior of Tempus." His wise but simple words are enough for Graxx to note that Hakmar does not consider him a traitor. Hakmar does not argue against the affirmation that he'll be imprisoned.
(@Grx: Please give me a religion check with advantage.)
Taters and Doozey continue to listen in. Villonah is playing her part.
Senetir is using his rank as direct advisor to Lord Velero Brokengulf to command the soldiers around. The prisoners are being treated with dignity. Once records are completed, they begin to lead the prisoners toward the northeast gate. Senitir nods at Graxx as he passes, trusting the tribesman to bring Hakmar along when he's ready. Seranolla follows the soldiers atop her strange mount.
Clearing his throat, Utar decides to finally address the nobles. Everyone else managed it, why can't he?
"Putting talk of dragons to one side for now, might we be better taking headcount and sharing information? How did the other groups fair? What next steps do we take?"
Religion: 9
Advantage Roll: 16
Graxx mulls his mind trying to think of what this wise one has said.
"Thank you for telling me, Hakmar... It seems what I have always knew to be true is coming quickly. I knew I would have to travel to the Underdark and eliminate the Drow that threaten our people. Even if I was able to defeat Aurock our people would not be safe... And I could not sleep knowing our people were slaves in the dark."
Graxx points to his belt.
"I've slowly been preparing for this. This belt, allows me to see in the dark and helps me resist their vile poisons... I will free us from Sel'Dren's dark bargain."
Graxx sighs...
"But first things first... I need to prove myself... I need to as you say find wings and slay this Dragon. Then our people can be free and I can try to pull our tribe back together no matter how scattered we are at the moment. Come, I must hurry the sooner I am off the sooner we can get you out of here."
Graxx starts walking back with Hakmar towards the line.
"I won't be alone in the coming battles. The warband I travel with is very powerful. I would not still be alive today and would not have grown in my skills if it wasn't for them. Stay strong and be patient my teacher."
Graxx remains standing by Hakmar in case an idea hits him.(From the religion check).
"Don't tell me yet, Villie. And sorry for interrupting, if'n I am. But, you wouldn't... er... mind considering for a bit a means we might procure wings for Graxx? Just in case?" Doozey requested, though would be blind and deaf to both his own words and answer. Still, he refrained from coming back to his own senses until he saw via Taters Graxx move as if intending to follow the procession.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
AT THE SOUTH GATE:
DM's Screen:
10
@Graxx: Although Graxx has never taken classes on the formal worship of Tempus (as in by priests in a temple) he is familiar with the idea that the clergymen and clergywomen of Tempus follow a general hierarchy. Like in many other worships, priest-to-be begin their journeys as acolytes and gain knowledge and influence over the years. Graxx does not remember all the titles these priest may acquire during their careers, but he remembers hearing that the highest of priests receive the title of "Warlyon," and that it is not uncommon for Warlyons to be blessed with the gift of flight.
"You have become a fine warrior..." Hakmar tells Graxx, "...And I am sure Tempus will guide you into becoming a better one still." With that, the old man follows Graxx back to the line of prisoners.
Villonah waits until she is sure she has Doozey's attention for a few uninterrupted seconds. She then says: "I know of no such thing, but it sounds to me like you may want to search for some sort of wizard, or perhaps an enchantress." She cocks an eyebrow and adds: "Now, tell me what you heard. I did my part so go on an spill the beans."
AT THE NORTHEAST GATE:
Utar waits for his turn to speak and, when it arrives, requests for information on the other groups. Hearing no objection from the nobles, Olisara gives her brief report: "Our path led us to a secret off-premises meeting between the Thayans and one of the Cult's factions. We learned the Red Ones were scheming with the New Cult faction in order to manipulate the Old Cult and use their resources for their own benefit. It seems that the scales were tilting toward the New Cult in their internal race to gain the hobgoblins' and Claugiyliamatar's favor, and that the Thayans were ready to jump onto the back of the winning horse. Once we dealt with them, we rode their imprisoned and sickly griffons toward the stronghold. We knew we were close when, first, eagles and owls corrupted by the Dragon attacked us, and second, when we flew over a wandering elven spirit we gather had somehow escaped being bound by the Thayan necromancers. Upon arrival at the stronghold, we were immediately confronted by the lead Thayan necromancer in the premises, the one who goes by the name of Zaralda. She was performing some sort of blood ritual which, slowly but surely, would bring back the corpses of the fallen to fight for their side once more. Our team's contribution to the final fight today was to interrupt Zaralda's ritual and bring her down. We succeeded, but some Thayans escaped. Then, Claugiyliamatar herself appeared and attacked our team first. Brother Keefe, our team's representative from the Lords' Alliance, perished in the fight against the Dragon. My own compatriot, another Harper agent, almost lost his life as well. Something stole Claugiyliamatar's attention, however, and she flew to the western part of the stronghold. Soon after that, many cultist and hobgoblin reinforcements arrived. Thankfully, so did the brave soldiers of House Brokengulf and House Silmerhelve. Losses were great on both sides, but we prevailed in the end. The Zartruss Clan eventually surrendered, but many surviving cultists fled. I would guess these fugitives were a mix of both factions within the Cult, as there seemed to be a bit of infighting taking place as they ran into the forest."
Olisara pauses and Captain Alyed fills in the silence: "Any questions before we cede the floor?"
A grimacing Doozey rubs the back of his neck, but caves beforelong a soft sigh and grudging acknowledgement of fairness. "I cannae for the life of me recall just how much of Graxx's history you've been given privvy to. But the long and short of is -- and please, refrain from speaking of this outside of our group -- Graxx's tribe got mixed up with Drow. As they wanted what... well, you probably know the stories. Graxx left to find a means to remedy the situation. But, in his absence, not that he was their leader mind you. That title belonged to a different prick. But, uh, rather than usual, the Drow returned seeking warriors to fight for the cult. And as they were a bit desperate to live again as their god Tempus wanted -- that being warriors, and not... not slaves -- many joined the cult."
He looks towards Graxx and Hakmar, and watches as the latter made their way to the procession. "Unfortunately, without some great proof and accomplishment under his belt, he cannot challenge the leader for right to rule. So, based on my earlier question, you can perhaps imagine where he's gonna get that proof." He said frankly, then motion for them to follow in the wake of the greater procession. Taters soon catches up, limping a little, but still spry enough to get back into Doozey's bag of his own accord.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Graxx takes Hakmar and drops him back off in line.
Graxx doesn’t say a word but looks Hakmar in the eyes and slowly nods.
Graxx quickly glances at the young tribal warriors and thinks of what could have been. He knows what must be done.
Graxx looks and sees Doozey and Villi. He slowly walks over.
”Thank you for uh... For waiting on me. That prisoner was my former weapon master Hakmar. I have learned a great deal about how my people got tied up in this mess. I know how to undo the knot but it’s going to be a long journey.”
Graxx runs his fingers through this hair and stops halfway through.
”What do you say we group back up with the others? I take it we’re done here?”
Unless there are any objections Graxx will begin walking in the direction he last saw Utar and Neya.
"I have none. But I will say I'm saddened by Brother Keefe's passing. He was a good man, and had helped us in our earlier adventures." Neya says with a hint of reflection.
Extended Signature
AT THE SOUTH GATE:
Villonah looks pensive as Doozey helps her catch up with Graxx's trials. She simply answers: "I hope his deity of choice can guide him to victory." She thanks Doozey for explaining and sharing the information and, once Taters rejoins, nods as to motion them to start moving.
Graxx takes Hakmar back to the line and entrusts him to Senitir and Seranolla. He then takes a few steps back to meet with Doozey and Villonah, who were already walking up anyways. After a few exchanged words, they decide it is indeed time to reach the northeast gate.
AT THE NORTHEAST GATE:
Neya uses the pause that follows Alyed's question to express her condolences for Brother Keefe. Dornal speaks right after that: "If anyone here is responsible for his death, it is me. I encouraged and promoted him within the Lords' Alliance so that he could join this campaign. He was so excited..." The dwarf looks quite taken by the news.
Zern Xerkstil, the Hammer of Impiltur, comes to the rescue by changing the subject after clearing his throat audibly: "It is time for our team's report then. We ventured deep into the forest in search of the fey and confirmed we were in the right path once we came across a couple of satyrs putting an end to some hobgoblin scouts. They were corrupted and beyond any sort of reasoning so, in turn, we had to put them out of their misery. Our path confirmed, we progressed deeper into the corrupted forest and eventually reached a glade or brook of some kind, also corrupted. A large, mobile oak tree attacked us but we were convinced not to bring it down by some beautiful fey creature that had been strapped onto the oak. We battled the corruption away from them and diverted the brook. In gratitude, they showed us the way to the Fey Lord's court. The path was mystical and the steps required to reach it were certainly hard to replicate. We found ourselves surrounded by hundreds if not thousands on unseelie fey, so fighting was not an option. We used diplomacy to build on the archfey's own veiled hatred for the dragon and agreed on a temporary alliance. He teleported us into one of the towers in the stronghold. We entered a pool of water and exited a mirror. We were disoriented at first and failed to realize we were in the tower that housed the horn. Instead of fighting our way up, we fought our way out through the ground level and proceeded to engage the nearby cultists in combat, including a lieutenant named Alandra. There were many of them, as well as some hobgoblins, but they thankfully did not get many reinforcements. We advanced and managed to disable their siege weapon. Seranolla summoned a rhinoceros to bash at its weak sides. Claugiyliamatar arrived just as we were tilting the scales and defeating Alandra. Thankfully, so did the Fey Lord, the walking oak tree, and the Fey Princess. Buhrell Caah went down in the fight that ensued, as did the oak tree. The princess escaped in order to save the tree, but the archfey fought alongside us to repel the green-winged menace. By the time we turned to deal with Alandra once and for all, she had already escaped. We were left to clean up the last few cultists and hobgoblins in the area."
He pauses and then emulates Aleyd: "Any questions before I cede the floor?"
Utar lays a hand on Dornal's shoulder, hoping to offer some comfort to the dwarf.
"Way I heard it, we all owe Keefe a debt. He died a hero even if everything he's left behind feels a little dimmer."
Looking around the group, Utar pauses to see if any questions are fired towards Zern and gives him opportunity to answer before assuming that a report is now due from CRAP. Having had the other reports, Year feels about capable, especially knowing Neya can likely fill in any gaps in his recollection.
"CRAP directed their attention to waylaying one of the supply trains for the Cult of the Dragon, although before we reached the ambush location we were set upon by what we now likely assume was some kind of corrupted forest troll. Proceeding to the ambush location we eliminated a group of mercenaries employed by the cult and made contact with Chaub's Zentarim spy, Yalek. From there we disguised ourselves as members of the cult and were able to infiltrate the stronghold. We were able to barricade a number of the hired mercenaries within their barracks, preventing them from coming to their master's aid. Unfortunately we were unable to fool the hobgoblins for long and had to engage earlier than we would have liked. We eliminated those guarding the gate house and left the way open behind us. From there we moved through the complex searching for either the horn or the siege engine, engaging hobgoblins and cultists before crossing paths with Ixas, leader of the old faction of the Cult of the Dragon and Garbul, leader of the hobgoblin contingent. We felled them both although the appearance of the dragon almost put paid to our gains and turned the day. I imagine we have our compatriots to thank for the appearance of the fey lord, who likely managed to do enough to convince it that discretion is the better part of valour and to turn tail. As he left the battlefield he urged us to come visit him. Our group was luckier than others by the sounds of it. We're all still on our feet. Any questions?"
As a physically and mentally exhausted Graxx approaches the Northeast gate he will notice the formal debriefings taking place. He will remain silent until everyone is complete then add a simple...
”Barracks are secure... Prisoners have been taken. No fight was needed.”
AT THE NORTHEAST GATE:
Dornal nods at Utar in a mournful but thankful gesture. Utar then proceeds to deliver his portion of the briefing while all others listen quietly, except for when Neya corrects her half-orc companion regarding Ixas' faction alliance.
Graxx, Doozey, Villonah, and Seranolla, arrive at the briefing area around the time Utar is wrapping up. Graxx adds a comment about more prisoners and points to Senetir, who is handing them over to some sergeant from the nobles' retinue. The owl-man eventually joins the briefing as well.
With most protagonists of today's events now in one place, Lady Dala takes the stage, sort of speak: "Thank you each team for your bravery today, and for what was mostly a successful foray. We dealt a significantly blow to the green dragon's schemes this day, even if she clings to her life still. We also thinned the numbers of this occult Cult of the Dragon, and possibly gave them more reasons to fight among themselves. All of this despite having fallen straight into what we assume was an intricate trap by this old green foe. Lord Brokengulf and I are extremely thankful for your help in achieving today's victory. You shall be rewarded commensurate with your valiant efforts today."
She pauses for a moment, looks at Lord Velero, and makes a suggestion: "Whatever the next steps may be, I believe we all need some time to replenish our strength and let the information gained today be fully digested before planning next steps. Do we all concur?"
(OOC: I noticed there was no mention of Ixas' mask in that briefing. I am assuming that was on purpose.)
“Aye.” says Graxx aloud.
”Let us get some rest. We do not know what tomorrow or even this very night holds.”
"Mn. No complaints here. And any suggestions I'd make would be just stating the obvious. As may be the case for most of us." Doozey added. Though a moment after eyes are on him, he fidgets uncomfortably, and only just restrain himself from hiding among the forest of tall legs.
And as mention in world's beyond their own, as far as the halfling is concerned, any missing intel would've been passed along by Utar. So, not much need to speak further yet. Right?
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"It has been a big day for all. For better, and for worse..." Neya begins, "It will do a world of good to regroup, both as a whole and as individuals."
Extended Signature