The Handmaiden’s eyes shift to Auger again, although the rest of her body remains quite still. Then, the Thin Witch moves close and you witness another silent exchange, and the Handmaiden speaks once more, her small mouth surrounded by drooping pale-orange flesh, her voice croaking, resonant, and icy.
“You are cursed with a life alone and apart, and long. So very long. For there is some call, some goal, some hand, which touches you and controls you beyond any power in the planes to alter. You will learn to recognize it as the centuries pass. Or, you may not. For, like us, you bear the touch of the godspace beyond the planes.”
A. Cube…Auger tries to listen to the whisper and learn what it is saying. (Arcana check: 8, if needed).
There is not enough time to make out anything. Auger knows nothing about this artifact, however, he notices a glyph carved in the chain but too obscured by the clinging ivy’s tendril-like roots to read in passing.
Auger stands horrified. Alone and apart. Centuries will pass. Like... the Azhvuv. The undying Ahzvuv. Or undead. What had happened to him? To all of them?
Before his thoughts can spin out of control Auger responds to the Handmaiden. "I--I. I see. I thank you for your... insights. You are most gene--generous in your sharing. Before we proceed to the Orcs we are... we are... hurting. Hurt. We are in need of some rest. And--", Auger pauses, having seen how the Alyasub eat he decides not to bring up food. "--and rest. Is there a place we could use? Unless anyone else has questions we should-- we should. Rest."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
“And,” says Granophyre, picking up from Auger, his voice flat, “what price will you extoll for our lives and for helping us to save Benita La Cass from the orcs? What task can we, whose power is so obviously less than your own, accomplish which you cannot?”
“Rest.” A chuckle emanates from the Handmaiden, seemingly in slow motion, and anything but jovial. “Eh, eh, eh, eh.” There is a pause. “Izilmeddur, bring them to the pool. Then, in the morning, to the drawing room. But first,” and she looks at Auger again, “the courtyard stone calls this one.”
And turning to Granophyre, the Handmaiden answers, “Our queen, like your friend, has been kidnapped, by a lord of the Vale of Deshar, and he exacts a price each month from us against the threat of her destruction. The payment of that ransom was what caused you to meet Izilmeddur in Ishi Ammah, for we were tasked with the taking of the wife of their rival, Amazigh. Which we accomplished for them. But our slavery will in time lead to greater and greater evil. She, our queen, must be freed. Yet, the spell which holds her was crafted to thwart our powers. We cannot save her. But you can. If you accept our help, then you will be quested with performing this task in return, before our ransom again comes due in five week’s time: free the Azhvuv Queen from her bondage in the Vale of Deshar.”
Ednyss doesn't make his opinion obvious to either Varielky or Granophyre when they looked at him for guidance and instead keeps his eyes trained on the Thin Witch. Attempting to ascertain anything about the truthfulness in her words, he is much too preoccupied to notice anything from the others in the group. When offered help, Ednyss is equally as skeptical as Granophyre and is about to voice his concerns regarding payment when Granophyre himself speaks up. A thoughtful frown creeps across Ednyss's face as the Handmaiden mentions the rescue of their queen. He didn't know much about the Azhvuv, but if their entire force couldn't manage to rescue the queen, then how were the four of them expected to do anything. Regardless, the Azhvuv seemed to believe that their group could manage it, and it was clear that Varielky was ready to accept the deal. Unable to find any further issues with the deal, Ednyss steps forward and breaks his silence. "We thank you sincerely for your offered help in rescuing our friend, and we will repay this debt in full." With that, Ednyss returns to his pensive state as he continues to examine the Handmaiden for any chance that she might renege on the bargain.
As he does so, he squints his eyes at Auger and senses the warlock's apprehension. Stepping up behind him, Ednyss gently presses his hand to the human's back and lets a bit of divine energy seep from his hand into Auger. "I know not what you face with this courtyard stone, but fear is only for those that have scorned the gods. You have proven yourself honorable, so you should have nothing to fear." Whispering under his breath, Ednyss adds, "Let the wisdom of the gods guide your own."
With that, Ednyss waits to be led away to the pool.
(OOC: A note, Ednyss intends to have a proper conversation with Varielky now that he has had more time to process his thoughts regarding the lizardmen/orc fight, but I'm not sure if they would have the space to talk at the "pool". If it would be possible, Ednyss would aim to pull Varielky off to the side once they knew where they were resting, but wouldn't force it if she seemed like she really needed the rest or there wasn't any space for it.)
(OOC: Also, sorry for being out of it a little bit, I got really busy with the National Debate Tournament this last week, and forgot to send an update. Next week should be much better.)
Insight (To see if the Handmaiden is being forthright about offering help): 20
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
Insight (To see if the Handmaiden is being forthright about offering help): 20
(OOC: I’ll hold on comment regarding “the pool” and whether you’ll have time to speak, until you get there. Regarding Ednyss’ insight, the cleric’s strong gut feeling is that the Handmaiden has been completely honest. He has no question in his mind that she has told him the truth, at least according to her own knowledge and perceptions.)
The agreement is made and you are told that more details will be forthcoming in the morning. Then the first Azhvuv, to whom the Handmaiden referred as Izilmeddur, turns to you. “Come with me,” she says to the four of you.
She leads you back the way you came, to the courtyard, and once there, under the starry sky, turns to Auger.
“The stone calls you. I am to tell you there is a doom upon it. The stone belongs to an angel of D’ya Boabab, the sly god of magic. The stone seeks its owner, this angel, always. Witness its pull. Yet something within it must be freed before the weapon can return.
The stone’s doom is one with our fate, but also, separate from it. For, in our ancient memories is it written, ‘distant water will hear the stone’s call, then perchance will from it fall,’ but none now living know why the stone was here fastened. Many have tried, with magic and physical force, to break it and claim its core energy for themselves, but it is invulnerable by D’ya Baobab’s will, and none have ever seen what lies within.”
Auger feels a calm come over him as Ednyss speaks to him. A relaxation and an intensity that is hard to pin down but certainly a welcome and reassuring thing. He smiles and thanks his companion. Reassurance is something Auger truly needs right now.
(OOC: @Math - for Enhance Ability I assume you meant the Owl's Wisdom bonus conferring Advantage on Wisdom-based checks, correct?)
Once in the courtyard Auger listens carefully to what he has heard but takes no action. An angel of D'ya Boabab owns this immense stone. An Angel of a magical god, known for his tricks and seeking his own advantage in all things if Auger remembers correctly.
(Religion check: What does Auger know of any mythos or story of D'ya Boabab, and his angels? Roll: 17.)
Py, does the Dowager know anything here? It seems they think our connection to her perhaps represents the 'distant water'.
Addressing Izilmeddur Auger says, "I did hear the stone's whisper as we passed through before and its... pulling did puzzle me. If I somehow represent the 'distant water' then I have already heard its call but nothing has fallen." Auger pauses a moment listening. Is he being tricked? If he can hear them he listens to the whispers. Are they saying anything meaningful? Can he discover any ill intent? (magically advantaged Insight check, if possible: 13).
Still thinking on the words an idea comes to Auger, "Perhaps..." Auger begins looking around the courtyard, seeking any water sources.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
Varielky looks like she needs to rest more than she want to. She's eager to leave as soon as possible, fearing they're leaving Benita there for too long. Once the Handmaiden decides they'll only leave in the morning, however, she has no option but to follow the others to this... pool.
Ednyss can see Varielky is anxious with anticipation, but other than that, she has no reason not to talk to him*.
Izilmeddur shows her empty palms to Auger, shaking her head once side to side in response to his question, and it occurs to him that no one has said anything about the water connecting him to this object or to the bit of history she mentioned. She tells the warlock that he has already heard everything she knows, and everything the Handmaiden wanted communicated, about the stone. “It is for you, alone, to unravel this puzzle. Or not. Who can say.”
She leaves Auger in the courtyard, and walks Varielky and Ednyss through a maze of passageways, deep into the castle’s depths, ever dusty, every finely appointed, gold shining under cobwebs and the ever-present dust. Following her, Varielky and Ednyss arrive at a room lined with benches all around, lit by tracings of glowing green lichen forming organic patterns on the walls. In its center is a shallow pool with a simple fountain at its center, emitting a slow trickle of fresh water. The ambience is that of a quiet and peaceful space, and the freshness of the water, even its trickling movement, contrasts vividly with the otherworldly hollowness of its surroundings. Izilmeddur leaves Ednyss and Varielky there, where they can rest and speak in private, then returns to the upper courtyard and sits with legs crossed, her back to a wall, waiting. Auger remains in the courtyard, the enormous ivy-covered cube still pulling skyward above him, and the courtyard is otherwise empty, except, now, for Izilmeddur, and for Granophyre, whose curiosity pierces his grief, and who sits on his shins, watching Auger and the stone. With shaky hands, the old scholar pulls out his pipe and lights it. There he sits as Auger faces the huge floating cube, pulling upon everything he knows to comprehend the origin and meaning of the ancient artifact. The minutes tick away in silence as the warlock delves into memory.
Auger’s village lore — his village having been his whole world before stepping away from it into the Dowager’s service—includes only a few tales of D’ya Baobab, and there, in the Orcan Conquest, in the South, the god of magic is considered a lesser god. One story comes to mind, in which D’ya Baobab is depicted as having been, at first, a friend to mortals, freely sharing keys to arcane energies with ancient benign rulers, through his children, the P’ixyathrin. However, goes the tale, mortals became selfish, the god withdrew his affections, and the P’ixyathrin were never seen again. Incidentally, Auger recalls, in folklore, the P’ixyathrin have come to be known as Pixies, who are sought after — folklorically — because it is said that to find one will earn the finder a magical gift. It is a tale told to children, for one of the secrets learned by all who leave childhood behind is that Pixies do not in fact exist.
Turning his attention to the whisper, Auger realizes that it is not one of words. It is like a scent, a perfume, a subtle movement in Auger’s peripheral vision, which, when he turns to face it, dissolves. Yet it calls him, quietly, insistently.
Auger, circumambulating the courtyard, finds that there are no water sources there, for its floor and walls are composed uniformly of dry, sandy stone.
Py, though he is right there on Auger’s shoulder, does not respond, Auger realizes, for some time, to his question. The Fey alyasub seems to be in a trance, or perhaps, in deep communication with the Dowager.
(OOC: Ednyss & Varielky can feel free to speak in the pool room, undisturbed and in privacy. That will occur simultaneously with Auger's investigations in the courtyard.)
In time, Py, in response to Auger’s query — and to the warlock’s astonishment —messages back, but, in a voice different from any he has heard before from the familiar, although the new sound is known to Auger, and he instantly recognizes it as belonging to the call of the lake he first heard those many weeks ago, not far from home. Warm, like the voice of his own mother, Auger hears her, the Dowager, in his mind.
“Auger. A debt is owed, between D’ya Boabab and Piya. You may settle it. It is your choice, for I am compelled not to influence the outcome. You know how to enter.”
And Auger sees in his mind’s eye a small dark chamber of cold stone, its internal walls lined with a single repeating rune of magic, traced in a thin, yellow light which glows starkly against the dark stone. In the chamber, nothing, except for a single cloaked form, facing away from Auger’s view. The realization crystalizes in the warlock’s mind that this vision is what lies within the very floating stone that above him pulls skyward, and that he could, if he wishes, step through the sea of stars into the chamber of the cloaked form.
An hour has passed, almost two, for the Dowager’s voice speaks slowly, like the changing of the seasons. The nearly full moon has now risen above the eastern horizon, casting a line of pale light on the top edge of the stone’s eastern face.
(OOC: Since most of this time, Auger has done little but think, he may short rest.)
Auger sits thinking about the forces in play and is quite sure that he merely needs to shape water in the stone's presence, perhaps in the symbol of Piya or perhaps of D'ya Boabab, or in a combination as they were quite similar really. The stone needed to know it had been heard, and so this would do, or so Auger thinks. Seeing no water sources nearby Auger feels this is a sign as of course something like this should not be easy. Water nearby would have been an obvious clue. So Auger pours from his waterskin, and shapes water in the air into the proper symbol and shouts, "In Piya's name I am here!" Then he smiles at Granophyre and waits.
And waits.
When he is sure nothing happens he changes the symbol and then switches to another call "D'ya Boabab, distant water hears you! I am here!" Auger looks to Izilmeddur expecting the thin witch to react to his solution with some form of approval. These attempts to use water to create symbols associated with a calling are all that occur to Auger and they go on unsuccessfully for some time before he realizes that Py never responded. Auger brings the water back into the skin and examines Py carefully. So when he finally hears the words of the Dowager herself, telling him exactly what to do, he is both surprised and chagrined. Yes, he could move there, but he would not have thought to attempt such a thing.
Abashed and then affirmed at her response Auger sends in return, Cảm ơn cô gái của tôi của hồ. Dowager, I understand, but I will need Py's assistance now.
Auger stands and says to Granophyre and Izilmeddur, "I have the solution. I don't know how long I will be gone, but Py will be here waiting for me." Auger, looks at their impassive faces and feels some doubt. So be it, he thinks.
Py, I will need you to stay out here so I can see how to return.
Auger steps forward and forward and forward until he is directly beneath the center of the giant stone, next to the chain. There he pauses and looks up. A debt is owed, Auger thinks. But what payment is required? A new feeling of unease washes over Auger, as he tries to convince himself that a simple carpenter cannot be that payment. Could he? A cloaked form awaits, perhaps its waiting will end now.
Closing his eyes, Auger takes the symbol of Piya into his left hand and extends it in front of him. He draws himself into the Sea of Stars, pictures that clear space that the Dowager had sent him, wills himself to arrive in that place, and then he moves to that space.
His eyes still closed, Auger says, "In Piya's name I come to see that a debt is paid. I am named Dannel and serve as Warlock to the Lady of the Shining Lake of Ever. How is this debt to be settled?"Auger lets the symbol of Piya on its chain fall to its resting spot outside his shirt. Then he opens his eyes.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
Py flits down to Granophyre, and they both watch as Auger, focusing on the vision shown him by the Dowager, which remains firmly planted in his mind, disappears into the sea of stars. The warlock re-materializes instantly in the place he envisions, and, eyes closed, begins to speak, but only begins. For as Soon as he opens his mouth, the air in his lungs begins to be sucked out, and the warlock instinctively clamps his lips shut, realizing momentarily that there is no air in the chamber, and he is beginning to asphyxiate. He opens his eyes wide right away and finds himself in the center of a small chamber, no more than 12’ across, a perfect cube, lit subtly by a single repeating rune etched in glowing yellow strands covering the walls, ceiling, and floor. He now realizes that several more unexpected things have occurred. First, the cloaked form is not before him. Second, something is behind him, slithering quickly to press against his back, and over his shoulders. It takes no more than a few seconds for Auger to realize he is held in place, by it, and the soft slithering is now reaching up the back of his scalp and forward to touch his ears. Third, Py is no longer in range. Auger cannot misty step from where he is because he cannot see beyond the confines of the small chamber. Last, Auger feels a tremendous weight pushing him downwards, and his legs shudder against the smashing force.
Panicked, Auger keeps his mouth shut and in a flash thinks of his family, his wife and even his companions on this strange journey. Would they even know what happened to him? How could they? Auger fixates on the repeating rune, what is it he thinks? As the force begins to push him downwards Auger can only think to bring Py to him, he can fight but...
(OOC: Most of Auger's spells have a Verbal component to their casting, including the action to put a familiar in the pocket dimension I presume. Can he cast any of those spells in this vacuum?)
(OOC: Most of Auger's spells have a Verbal component to their casting, including the action to put a familiar in the pocket dimension I presume. Can he cast any of those spells in this vacuum?)
(Auger has enough air left in his lungs to meet the verbal requirement for one spell requiring 1 action or less to cast. We can imagine the physics of the situation somehow allowing this. Each iteration of the repeating rune is the eye within a circle, signifying D'ya Baobab.)
(@Zzozz_; The Enhance Ability was for advantage on Wisdom-based checks for the next hour.)
Once inside the pool chamber, with Granophyre still waiting with Auger, Ednyss approaches Varielky and begins to speak, "Firstly, I would like to thank you. I don't know what was running through my head after the fight with the lizardfolk and you were a staunch al- friend," Ednyss corrects himself as he begins to smile, "Your guidance helped bring me out of the dark place that I was in, and I am forever grateful." Just as quickly as he smiles, Ednyss's brow begins to furrow as he continues, "Unfortunately, the second thing is a bit direr. Granophyre seems to still be in a similar place where I was after the fight, and I worry that he is not in his right mind. For that reason, I fear that he could pose more of a danger to us on our mission to rescue Benita than aid unless we can somehow help him." Ednyss pauses and looks to Varielky to watch her response.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
Desperate to get out, for air, to not have a snake(?) on his body or at his ear, Auger summons Py into his pocket dimension, intending to bring him back within range so that he can leave this airless room. While doing that he attempts to consider the situation. He cannot survive long, he has one way to leave, the same way as he came in, but he would have to expel his breath in even that attempt to leave. And something - something was on him! Dragging him downward! Auger attempts to stay standing against the pull.
Is this thing on his back what would be freed? How it would be freed? By riding upon him? Is freeing it... wise? What an unusual debt.
(OOC: I know what Auger's next few actions would be but I am holding off to see what happens at this point - let me know if you just want to see all the steps in one place from here.)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
Auger wills Py into its pocket dimension and feels its presence now within reach, ready to heed his call and re-enter Auger’s dimension. Looking behind him at his assailant, Auger realizes that the cloaked figure is in the chamber after all, for it is what is assaulting him from behind. The fabric of its arms, gold-embroidered fine silk, envelops him as he turns, and he makes a new discovery: the cloaked figure is not a figure at all -- it is an empty cloak, hanging in place, or rather a complete set of robes hanging in place, which are now encircling him, tying themselves around him, and slithering up and over his head to buffet it brusquely as he pulls away; and, the whisper, the melody, the scent, which was calling to him, he realizes, is replicated by the touch of these robes, and only stops when they have completely attached themselves to him, covering him completely. But still, there is no air, Auger is beginning to pass out, and the oppressive weight, heavier even than the huge lizard which crushed the life out of him before, pulls Auger downward until his legs give out and he is pressed, now on hands and knees, against the cool, yellow-runed floor.
Fighting for air and barely able to hold himself upright Auger continues to the process of creating his escape by summoning Py to appear at the precise point below him, outside the stone, from which he moved up. Then he sends to Py, Stay there, I need your help to leave this place!
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
On the brink of unconsciousness, The warlock hears Py’s voice in his mind, panting, strained. ‘Hurry. I cannot keep up! See through my eyes and step out now!’
The Handmaiden’s eyes shift to Auger again, although the rest of her body remains quite still. Then, the Thin Witch moves close and you witness another silent exchange, and the Handmaiden speaks once more, her small mouth surrounded by drooping pale-orange flesh, her voice croaking, resonant, and icy.
“You are cursed with a life alone and apart, and long. So very long. For there is some call, some goal, some hand, which touches you and controls you beyond any power in the planes to alter. You will learn to recognize it as the centuries pass. Or, you may not. For, like us, you bear the touch of the godspace beyond the planes.”
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
There is not enough time to make out anything. Auger knows nothing about this artifact, however, he notices a glyph carved in the chain but too obscured by the clinging ivy’s tendril-like roots to read in passing.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Auger stands horrified. Alone and apart. Centuries will pass. Like... the Azhvuv. The undying Ahzvuv. Or undead. What had happened to him? To all of them?
Before his thoughts can spin out of control Auger responds to the Handmaiden. "I--I. I see. I thank you for your... insights. You are most gene--generous in your sharing. Before we proceed to the Orcs we are... we are... hurting. Hurt. We are in need of some rest. And--", Auger pauses, having seen how the Alyasub eat he decides not to bring up food. "--and rest. Is there a place we could use? Unless anyone else has questions we should-- we should. Rest."
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
“And,” says Granophyre, picking up from Auger, his voice flat, “what price will you extoll for our lives and for helping us to save Benita La Cass from the orcs? What task can we, whose power is so obviously less than your own, accomplish which you cannot?”
“Rest.” A chuckle emanates from the Handmaiden, seemingly in slow motion, and anything but jovial. “Eh, eh, eh, eh.” There is a pause. “Izilmeddur, bring them to the pool. Then, in the morning, to the drawing room. But first,” and she looks at Auger again, “the courtyard stone calls this one.”
And turning to Granophyre, the Handmaiden answers, “Our queen, like your friend, has been kidnapped, by a lord of the Vale of Deshar, and he exacts a price each month from us against the threat of her destruction. The payment of that ransom was what caused you to meet Izilmeddur in Ishi Ammah, for we were tasked with the taking of the wife of their rival, Amazigh. Which we accomplished for them. But our slavery will in time lead to greater and greater evil. She, our queen, must be freed. Yet, the spell which holds her was crafted to thwart our powers. We cannot save her. But you can. If you accept our help, then you will be quested with performing this task in return, before our ransom again comes due in five week’s time: free the Azhvuv Queen from her bondage in the Vale of Deshar.”
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Ednyss doesn't make his opinion obvious to either Varielky or Granophyre when they looked at him for guidance and instead keeps his eyes trained on the Thin Witch. Attempting to ascertain anything about the truthfulness in her words, he is much too preoccupied to notice anything from the others in the group. When offered help, Ednyss is equally as skeptical as Granophyre and is about to voice his concerns regarding payment when Granophyre himself speaks up. A thoughtful frown creeps across Ednyss's face as the Handmaiden mentions the rescue of their queen. He didn't know much about the Azhvuv, but if their entire force couldn't manage to rescue the queen, then how were the four of them expected to do anything. Regardless, the Azhvuv seemed to believe that their group could manage it, and it was clear that Varielky was ready to accept the deal. Unable to find any further issues with the deal, Ednyss steps forward and breaks his silence. "We thank you sincerely for your offered help in rescuing our friend, and we will repay this debt in full." With that, Ednyss returns to his pensive state as he continues to examine the Handmaiden for any chance that she might renege on the bargain.
As he does so, he squints his eyes at Auger and senses the warlock's apprehension. Stepping up behind him, Ednyss gently presses his hand to the human's back and lets a bit of divine energy seep from his hand into Auger. "I know not what you face with this courtyard stone, but fear is only for those that have scorned the gods. You have proven yourself honorable, so you should have nothing to fear." Whispering under his breath, Ednyss adds, "Let the wisdom of the gods guide your own."
With that, Ednyss waits to be led away to the pool.
(OOC: A note, Ednyss intends to have a proper conversation with Varielky now that he has had more time to process his thoughts regarding the lizardmen/orc fight, but I'm not sure if they would have the space to talk at the "pool". If it would be possible, Ednyss would aim to pull Varielky off to the side once they knew where they were resting, but wouldn't force it if she seemed like she really needed the rest or there wasn't any space for it.)
(OOC: Also, sorry for being out of it a little bit, I got really busy with the National Debate Tournament this last week, and forgot to send an update. Next week should be much better.)
Insight (To see if the Handmaiden is being forthright about offering help): 20
“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
(OOC: I’ll hold on comment regarding “the pool” and whether you’ll have time to speak, until you get there. Regarding Ednyss’ insight, the cleric’s strong gut feeling is that the Handmaiden has been completely honest. He has no question in his mind that she has told him the truth, at least according to her own knowledge and perceptions.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
The agreement is made and you are told that more details will be forthcoming in the morning. Then the first Azhvuv, to whom the Handmaiden referred as Izilmeddur, turns to you. “Come with me,” she says to the four of you.
She leads you back the way you came, to the courtyard, and once there, under the starry sky, turns to Auger.
“The stone calls you. I am to tell you there is a doom upon it. The stone belongs to an angel of D’ya Boabab, the sly god of magic. The stone seeks its owner, this angel, always. Witness its pull. Yet something within it must be freed before the weapon can return.
The stone’s doom is one with our fate, but also, separate from it. For, in our ancient memories is it written, ‘distant water will hear the stone’s call, then perchance will from it fall,’ but none now living know why the stone was here fastened. Many have tried, with magic and physical force, to break it and claim its core energy for themselves, but it is invulnerable by D’ya Baobab’s will, and none have ever seen what lies within.”
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Auger feels a calm come over him as Ednyss speaks to him. A relaxation and an intensity that is hard to pin down but certainly a welcome and reassuring thing. He smiles and thanks his companion. Reassurance is something Auger truly needs right now.
(OOC: @Math - for Enhance Ability I assume you meant the Owl's Wisdom bonus conferring Advantage on Wisdom-based checks, correct?)
Once in the courtyard Auger listens carefully to what he has heard but takes no action. An angel of D'ya Boabab owns this immense stone. An Angel of a magical god, known for his tricks and seeking his own advantage in all things if Auger remembers correctly.
(Religion check: What does Auger know of any mythos or story of D'ya Boabab, and his angels? Roll: 17.)
Py, does the Dowager know anything here? It seems they think our connection to her perhaps represents the 'distant water'.
Addressing Izilmeddur Auger says, "I did hear the stone's whisper as we passed through before and its... pulling did puzzle me. If I somehow represent the 'distant water' then I have already heard its call but nothing has fallen." Auger pauses a moment listening. Is he being tricked? If he can hear them he listens to the whispers. Are they saying anything meaningful? Can he discover any ill intent? (magically advantaged Insight check, if possible: 13).
Still thinking on the words an idea comes to Auger, "Perhaps..." Auger begins looking around the courtyard, seeking any water sources.
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
Varielky looks like she needs to rest more than she want to. She's eager to leave as soon as possible, fearing they're leaving Benita there for too long. Once the Handmaiden decides they'll only leave in the morning, however, she has no option but to follow the others to this... pool.
Ednyss can see Varielky is anxious with anticipation, but other than that, she has no reason not to talk to him*.
*Unless the pool holds some surprises.
Varielky
Izilmeddur shows her empty palms to Auger, shaking her head once side to side in response to his question, and it occurs to him that no one has said anything about the water connecting him to this object or to the bit of history she mentioned. She tells the warlock that he has already heard everything she knows, and everything the Handmaiden wanted communicated, about the stone. “It is for you, alone, to unravel this puzzle. Or not. Who can say.”
She leaves Auger in the courtyard, and walks Varielky and Ednyss through a maze of passageways, deep into the castle’s depths, ever dusty, every finely appointed, gold shining under cobwebs and the ever-present dust. Following her, Varielky and Ednyss arrive at a room lined with benches all around, lit by tracings of glowing green lichen forming organic patterns on the walls. In its center is a shallow pool with a simple fountain at its center, emitting a slow trickle of fresh water. The ambience is that of a quiet and peaceful space, and the freshness of the water, even its trickling movement, contrasts vividly with the otherworldly hollowness of its surroundings. Izilmeddur leaves Ednyss and Varielky there, where they can rest and speak in private, then returns to the upper courtyard and sits with legs crossed, her back to a wall, waiting.
Auger remains in the courtyard, the enormous ivy-covered cube still pulling skyward above him, and the courtyard is otherwise empty, except, now, for Izilmeddur, and for Granophyre, whose curiosity pierces his grief, and who sits on his shins, watching Auger and the stone. With shaky hands, the old scholar pulls out his pipe and lights it. There he sits as Auger faces the huge floating cube, pulling upon everything he knows to comprehend the origin and meaning of the ancient artifact. The minutes tick away in silence as the warlock delves into memory.
Auger’s village lore — his village having been his whole world before stepping away from it into the Dowager’s service—includes only a few tales of D’ya Baobab, and there, in the Orcan Conquest, in the South, the god of magic is considered a lesser god. One story comes to mind, in which D’ya Baobab is depicted as having been, at first, a friend to mortals, freely sharing keys to arcane energies with ancient benign rulers, through his children, the P’ixyathrin. However, goes the tale, mortals became selfish, the god withdrew his affections, and the P’ixyathrin were never seen again. Incidentally, Auger recalls, in folklore, the P’ixyathrin have come to be known as Pixies, who are sought after — folklorically — because it is said that to find one will earn the finder a magical gift. It is a tale told to children, for one of the secrets learned by all who leave childhood behind is that Pixies do not in fact exist.
Turning his attention to the whisper, Auger realizes that it is not one of words. It is like a scent, a perfume, a subtle movement in Auger’s peripheral vision, which, when he turns to face it, dissolves. Yet it calls him, quietly, insistently.
Auger, circumambulating the courtyard, finds that there are no water sources there, for its floor and walls are composed uniformly of dry, sandy stone.
Py, though he is right there on Auger’s shoulder, does not respond, Auger realizes, for some time, to his question. The Fey alyasub seems to be in a trance, or perhaps, in deep communication with the Dowager.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
(OOC: Ednyss & Varielky can feel free to speak in the pool room, undisturbed and in privacy. That will occur simultaneously with Auger's investigations in the courtyard.)
In time, Py, in response to Auger’s query — and to the warlock’s astonishment —messages back, but, in a voice different from any he has heard before from the familiar, although the new sound is known to Auger, and he instantly recognizes it as belonging to the call of the lake he first heard those many weeks ago, not far from home. Warm, like the voice of his own mother, Auger hears her, the Dowager, in his mind.
“Auger. A debt is owed, between D’ya Boabab and Piya. You may settle it. It is your choice, for I am compelled not to influence the outcome. You know how to enter.”
And Auger sees in his mind’s eye a small dark chamber of cold stone, its internal walls lined with a single repeating rune of magic, traced in a thin, yellow light which glows starkly against the dark stone. In the chamber, nothing, except for a single cloaked form, facing away from Auger’s view. The realization crystalizes in the warlock’s mind that this vision is what lies within the very floating stone that above him pulls skyward, and that he could, if he wishes, step through the sea of stars into the chamber of the cloaked form.
An hour has passed, almost two, for the Dowager’s voice speaks slowly, like the changing of the seasons. The nearly full moon has now risen above the eastern horizon, casting a line of pale light on the top edge of the stone’s eastern face.
(OOC: Since most of this time, Auger has done little but think, he may short rest.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Auger sits thinking about the forces in play and is quite sure that he merely needs to shape water in the stone's presence, perhaps in the symbol of Piya or perhaps of D'ya Boabab, or in a combination as they were quite similar really. The stone needed to know it had been heard, and so this would do, or so Auger thinks. Seeing no water sources nearby Auger feels this is a sign as of course something like this should not be easy. Water nearby would have been an obvious clue. So Auger pours from his waterskin, and shapes water in the air into the proper symbol and shouts, "In Piya's name I am here!" Then he smiles at Granophyre and waits.
And waits.
When he is sure nothing happens he changes the symbol and then switches to another call "D'ya Boabab, distant water hears you! I am here!" Auger looks to Izilmeddur expecting the thin witch to react to his solution with some form of approval. These attempts to use water to create symbols associated with a calling are all that occur to Auger and they go on unsuccessfully for some time before he realizes that Py never responded. Auger brings the water back into the skin and examines Py carefully. So when he finally hears the words of the Dowager herself, telling him exactly what to do, he is both surprised and chagrined. Yes, he could move there, but he would not have thought to attempt such a thing.
Abashed and then affirmed at her response Auger sends in return, Cảm ơn cô gái của tôi của hồ. Dowager, I understand, but I will need Py's assistance now.
Auger stands and says to Granophyre and Izilmeddur, "I have the solution. I don't know how long I will be gone, but Py will be here waiting for me." Auger, looks at their impassive faces and feels some doubt. So be it, he thinks.
Py, I will need you to stay out here so I can see how to return.
Auger steps forward and forward and forward until he is directly beneath the center of the giant stone, next to the chain. There he pauses and looks up. A debt is owed, Auger thinks. But what payment is required? A new feeling of unease washes over Auger, as he tries to convince himself that a simple carpenter cannot be that payment. Could he? A cloaked form awaits, perhaps its waiting will end now.
Closing his eyes, Auger takes the symbol of Piya into his left hand and extends it in front of him. He draws himself into the Sea of Stars, pictures that clear space that the Dowager had sent him, wills himself to arrive in that place, and then he moves to that space.
His eyes still closed, Auger says, "In Piya's name I come to see that a debt is paid. I am named Dannel and serve as Warlock to the Lady of the Shining Lake of Ever. How is this debt to be settled?" Auger lets the symbol of Piya on its chain fall to its resting spot outside his shirt. Then he opens his eyes.
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
Py flits down to Granophyre, and they both watch as Auger, focusing on the vision shown him by the Dowager, which remains firmly planted in his mind, disappears into the sea of stars. The warlock re-materializes instantly in the place he envisions, and, eyes closed, begins to speak, but only begins. For as Soon as he opens his mouth, the air in his lungs begins to be sucked out, and the warlock instinctively clamps his lips shut, realizing momentarily that there is no air in the chamber, and he is beginning to asphyxiate.
He opens his eyes wide right away and finds himself in the center of a small chamber, no more than 12’ across, a perfect cube, lit subtly by a single repeating rune etched in glowing yellow strands covering the walls, ceiling, and floor. He now realizes that several more unexpected things have occurred. First, the cloaked form is not before him. Second, something is behind him, slithering quickly to press against his back, and over his shoulders. It takes no more than a few seconds for Auger to realize he is held in place, by it, and the soft slithering is now reaching up the back of his scalp and forward to touch his ears. Third, Py is no longer in range. Auger cannot misty step from where he is because he cannot see beyond the confines of the small chamber. Last, Auger feels a tremendous weight pushing him downwards, and his legs shudder against the smashing force.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Panicked, Auger keeps his mouth shut and in a flash thinks of his family, his wife and even his companions on this strange journey. Would they even know what happened to him? How could they? Auger fixates on the repeating rune, what is it he thinks? As the force begins to push him downwards Auger can only think to bring Py to him, he can fight but...
(OOC: Most of Auger's spells have a Verbal component to their casting, including the action to put a familiar in the pocket dimension I presume. Can he cast any of those spells in this vacuum?)
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
(Auger has enough air left in his lungs to meet the verbal requirement for one spell requiring 1 action or less to cast. We can imagine the physics of the situation somehow allowing this. Each iteration of the repeating rune is the eye within a circle, signifying D'ya Baobab.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
(@Zzozz_; The Enhance Ability was for advantage on Wisdom-based checks for the next hour.)
Once inside the pool chamber, with Granophyre still waiting with Auger, Ednyss approaches Varielky and begins to speak, "Firstly, I would like to thank you. I don't know what was running through my head after the fight with the lizardfolk and you were a staunch al- friend," Ednyss corrects himself as he begins to smile, "Your guidance helped bring me out of the dark place that I was in, and I am forever grateful." Just as quickly as he smiles, Ednyss's brow begins to furrow as he continues, "Unfortunately, the second thing is a bit direr. Granophyre seems to still be in a similar place where I was after the fight, and I worry that he is not in his right mind. For that reason, I fear that he could pose more of a danger to us on our mission to rescue Benita than aid unless we can somehow help him." Ednyss pauses and looks to Varielky to watch her response.
“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
Desperate to get out, for air, to not have a snake(?) on his body or at his ear, Auger summons Py into his pocket dimension, intending to bring him back within range so that he can leave this airless room. While doing that he attempts to consider the situation. He cannot survive long, he has one way to leave, the same way as he came in, but he would have to expel his breath in even that attempt to leave. And something - something was on him! Dragging him downward! Auger attempts to stay standing against the pull.
Is this thing on his back what would be freed? How it would be freed? By riding upon him? Is freeing it... wise? What an unusual debt.
(OOC: I know what Auger's next few actions would be but I am holding off to see what happens at this point - let me know if you just want to see all the steps in one place from here.)
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
(Step by step is better)
Auger wills Py into its pocket dimension and feels its presence now within reach, ready to heed his call and re-enter Auger’s dimension. Looking behind him at his assailant, Auger realizes that the cloaked figure is in the chamber after all, for it is what is assaulting him from behind. The fabric of its arms, gold-embroidered fine silk, envelops him as he turns, and he makes a new discovery: the cloaked figure is not a figure at all -- it is an empty cloak, hanging in place, or rather a complete set of robes hanging in place, which are now encircling him, tying themselves around him, and slithering up and over his head to buffet it brusquely as he pulls away; and, the whisper, the melody, the scent, which was calling to him, he realizes, is replicated by the touch of these robes, and only stops when they have completely attached themselves to him, covering him completely. But still, there is no air, Auger is beginning to pass out, and the oppressive weight, heavier even than the huge lizard which crushed the life out of him before, pulls Auger downward until his legs give out and he is pressed, now on hands and knees, against the cool, yellow-runed floor.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Fighting for air and barely able to hold himself upright Auger continues to the process of creating his escape by summoning Py to appear at the precise point below him, outside the stone, from which he moved up. Then he sends to Py, Stay there, I need your help to leave this place!
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
On the brink of unconsciousness, The warlock hears Py’s voice in his mind, panting, strained. ‘Hurry. I cannot keep up! See through my eyes and step out now!’
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer