(OOC: Will edit in more later about the trip so quick summary here in case others need it for reaction)
At earliest opportunity Auger begins the ritual to bring his familiar back. The process involves carving a new figure from the Thuya wood he acquired back in Hyewush, while praying to Piya and forming a continuous bond to the Sea of Stars. It goes on for more than an hour. The familiar may be different in some fashion (OOC: discussion in chat)
(OOC: Level up! Auger has numerous things to ask about in chat)
Auger agrees to meet Ednyss and brings his woodcarving tools.
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DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
When Auger arrives Ednyss tells him something that has been on his mind for a while now. "You have probably been able to tell by now, that my shield is precious to me. However, I won't always be able to have it with me, and being away from and without His strength has been bothering me more and more recently." Ednyss takes a deep breath. "I know that there are methods of-" Ednyss pauses as he struggles to find the right word, "putting ink below the skin to form an image, but we may not encounter an artisan that can do that in the near future. I have seen your skill with those tools," the dwarf gestures to the woodcarving tools, "and I am not afraid of pain. A scar will make a mark just as permanent as ink, and I do not wish to wait any longer. Will you carve this symbol," Ednyss gestures to the simple shield symbol that he crudely attempted to draw into the ground with a stick, "into my arm?" Ednyss says this bluntly and pulls up his sleeve (his armor is already removed) so that the rough gray skin around his shoulder is revealed. If Auger agrees, Ednyss finds a stick and places it in his mouth, biting down hard to prevent him from shouting out, although he doubts the pain will be anything compared to the things he experienced during the war.
Once Auger is done carving, Ednyss will use whatever divine magic is necessary to close the wound if he can do so without removing the scar. If that is not possible, Ednyss will just bandage the wound to stop the bleeding and then let it heal naturally.
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“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
When resting at the palm-encircled pond, Varielky strikes up a conversation with Tamazaert, and Granophyre joins in later
Q. Her life prior to capture by the Orcs. A. I was born in Kalahata, I have...family there. Well, not family, but people. It was a disagreement with an...uncle...that made me want to leave Kalahata. I was captured on the way to Ishi Ammah.
Q How do the Orcs treat the slaves? A. When I came of age, I was transferred from a farm to the harem. Orc men would come and visit. They had to be nice. Eventually, one of them, who was persistent and not unkind, won me over, I guess. He said he would protect me, and brought nice things for Sura.
Q Would she consider life good there, if their babies weren't taken away? A. I guess so. Things weren’t so great in Kalahata.
Q Did Tamazaert want a baby? A. I mean...that’s kind of what we’re there for. And I knew that my baby might have a better shot at life than me.
Q Could she choose who the father would be? A. I could say No for as long as I wanted. Or at least until I got old and was sent back to the farms. Finally one of the orcs was persistent and nice to me. I didn’t mind him.
Granophyre enters the conversation, his gentle basso calm and measured. “Slavery is a scourge...and the Jenghens merely continue a tragic line of kingdoms which have been raised up on the backs of enslaved people. I have read that they, the slaves, have been branded. Runaways are chased down, brought back, and whipped as a lesson to the rest. Sometimes they are whipped for trifles, simply to reinforce their subjugation and powerlessness. Remember too that the orcs ride under the imperial banner. Harboring a slave anywhere in the Empire, or transporting them abroad, is a treasonous offense.” And, knowing the quality Varielky treasures above all others, he continues, “Bravery has its limits.” The scholar looks sadly at Tamazaert, who pulls up her shirttail to reveal that she has a branding scar on the small of her back.
“But not Sura!,” she whispers, a tear rolling softly down her cheek. “He’ll be free to live his own life, thanks to you, Miss. Jenghen children aren’t branded.”
A few changes which come with leveling up:
Varielky: You awaken after hearing the voice of Veleif in your dreams. Something makes you unsheathe your sword. As you stare at it, it takes you a moment to notice. The carbonization over the next rune in the series seems...flaky. With your thumb, you rub it and it begins to come off, and in a few minutes, a new rune is uncovered on the edge of the blade: the glyph of Idiwala, or as you know him, Balder, god of speech and history. The sword is now +2, and the Lay On Hands feature now heals 10HP. And somehow, it is making you think of Veleif. His lessons resonate in your mind. And this will increase over the coming days.
Ednyss: your shield now gives you a +1 bonus to hit on spell and melee attacks when you are holding it, and, similarly, raises the DC +1 against saving throws vs spells you cast while holding it.
Auger: you find yourself daydreaming about your angelic airborne encounter with some frequency, especially the sensation of seeing the world from a great height. You had time before going to sleep in your room at the saloon to summon your familiar.
Varielky looks at the abhorrent scar on Tamazaert's back. Despite that, and all that she said, the woman ran with them, only for the baby's sake. Is he really worth it? Now, Varielky wonders if she has done Tamazaert a favour, or perhaps only made her fate worse. She needed guidance, some point of light in all the darkness and confusion that have been surrounding her lately. She was a sword, but she no longer trusted where she is cutting. She needed some hand to guide her path. The sword does not think of whom it cuts, it just cuts. For a moment, Varielky wants to be that way. Then, she dismisses the thought. No, she must be the one guiding herself. Only that way do her actions have meaning. Only that way can she take responsibility over her actions, for better or worse. "Maybe you're right, but I'm willing to find where those limits are." She turns to the woman. That long name... she could not yet remember it well. "We can try to get rid of this mark, but it will hurt, and I can't guarantee much. Do you want to try? There are many ways, at least one should work, if you can endure the pain. At the very least, we can make it less obvious, but that will hurt too. If not, you will bear this for the rest of your life. I'm willing to help, but it's your choice."
Fortunately, some point of light did shine in the dark. It has been quite some time since she actually thought about Veleif. What would he have done? She wonders. What would he have advised her to do? Would he praise her efforts, or reprimand her mistakes? Varielky looks at the new rune. Balder. It reminds her of the Dwarf they travelled with for a while from Ishi Ammah to Hyewush. Speech and history. For some, they may seem unrelated to battle, but each could be connected in a way. Dolkum knew that. She wonders what the ancestors who made the sword she wields thought of the matter. What did Veleif think of this in terms of battle? She could imagine a few explanations, she knew Veleif would present a dozen more. Perhaps she just needs to give it time and discover what the true meaning is when the moment comes. Varielky will trust the gods. As she can barely trust herself anymore, it's more than enough for her.
Tamazaert seems horrified by Varielky's offer, but then seems to suddenly understand the danger her scar puts her in. "I will think about it, miss," she says, quietly.
(THE JOURNEY, 19th of Beauty, cont'd. / flashback)
Benita rides with Granophyre and quietly speaks with him after that first night’s sleep after the orcs. They converse about Tuff, the rest of you are led to believe, judging by her looks of sympathy and whispers, and due to Granophyre’s deep sadness. You get the impression that she was the only one of you who intuited the depth of Granophyre and Tuff's relationship. Later, as you all rise from your respite at the pond, Benita asks everyone to wait and addresses the party just before you mount up.
“I don’t know what to say, and...you know me well enough to know that I speak my mind.” She pauses briefly, a small wrinkle forming just at the point between her eyebrows as she searches visibly for words. “But, I just want to say...thank you. Bruiser. Ednyss, Master Strewn. Auger. I knew there was no way I’d be riding off on the back of a hyena with my hands bound unless Varielky was...dead. I knew it.” She looks at Varielky for a long moment, and the shield-maiden knows that her friend is keeping some thoughts to herself. “But...that was flocking brave, what you did. I’ll repay you all somehow.” She trails off, shakes her head, displeased with the limits of words to express her many emotions, and she then mounts up.
Tamazaert, who had been somberly bouncing Sura on her hip, picks up from the Indallian. “I know I can never repay you all for taking Sura and me with you. I know I’m probably slowing you down…” and she now trails off. “Thank you,” she finishes humbly.
That night, at the village saloon, and after everyone has gone to bed and it is dark and quiet, Benita, who is sharing a large room with Varielky and Tamazaert, tip-toes to Varielky, crouches beside her bed on the floor, and leans her head back against the wall, pushing a few stray hairs out of her face with her graceful fingers while speaking in an undertone whose calm belies the emotions under the surface.
“Varielky. I thought you were dead. I thought everyone I have ever cared about was dead. After Bali…” She pauses, fighting to keep her thoughts in line. “And a part of me thought, well, this is it, this is how it goes for me. That’s what happens if I care. I lose. And then Shulong...he’s strong, Vee. You couldn’t have known it, but he was also gentle. He talked me back from the edge. At least part way. And, well, look. Come on, Bruiser...you know I like big guys.” And Varielky pictures Bali in her mind, hulking, brawny, no-necked, soft-spoken Bali.
“I know you have this forearm measuring contest going on with Shulong, but...he’s not…” She pauses again, unable to find words. “Just remember,” she goes on, “I don’t know if I’d be here if not for him. If that matters.”
Varielky quietly listens. Benita's words in the morning still echoing in her mind. Eventually, she speaks. It's not her normal confident a strong voice. Rather, it's an unsure one. A seeking one. "Would you... rather we didn't come? Or, perhaps, left you there? I took it for granted that you'd be struggling as hard as you can to break free, but maybe I didn't think of what you would do, and more about what I would have done. Maybe... I didn't really think of you at all." Varielky stops, and she thinks about all that Benita and Tamazaert said. She undoes her braid, then runs her fingers through her hair and shakes her head, scattering her hair, letting it breathe a little. She thinks about other girls from her village, back then. They always cared a lot for their hair - how it looks, how it feels, how others view it... Varielky only made sure that it doesn't get in the way. Maybe the fact that she never cut it completely short was a relic of the girl she used to be. She wondered who she'd be at this time had her parents stayed alive. It's too hard to imagine. Varielky glances towards Tamazaert and the baby. Had she not come, or took much longer, would Benita look the same right now? Would she also carry a Jenghen in her arms - Xurl's baby? What then? Would she still have come with Varielky? "Tell me just one thing." Varielky turns back to Benita. "The mark that she bears on her back, do you bear it too? Did they do the same to you? Going with me has always been a risk, I suppose, as it will always involve fighting, but what about you? What will you do now? I'm not even sure whether master Strewn still wants to pursue his previous goal. We owe the Azhvuv a favour, but it has nothing to do with you. And, lastly, if we face... Xurl, again... what will you do then?"
V: Would you... rather we didn't come? Or, perhaps, left you there?
B: Bruiser, no one made me come with you. Friends to the end, Vee.
V: Maybe... I didn't really think of you at all.
B: Yeh. Well empathy isn’t really your strong suit.
V: [She undoes her braid, then runs her fingers through her hair and shakes her head, scattering her hair, letting it breathe a little.]
B: See, Vee, you don’t even know how beautiful you are. I know you’re flocking married to Takal Demesh and all, but…would it kill you to relax just a bit? I bet you don’t even notice how men — and some women — look at you.
V: The mark that she bears on her back, do you bear it too? Did they do the same to you?
B: They…didn’t. (Varielky can tell that’s not the whole story.)
V: What will you do now?
B: Same as always. See what comes next. I don’t think Granophyre has given up on his life’s work yet.
V: if we face... Xurl, again... what will you do then?
Varielky looks in silence until it is clear Benita won't answer her last question. She turns away on her bed, now facing the wall, but she cannot bring herself to close her eyes as her thoughts are such a mess. She remains silent as she thinks about all that Benita said. The last time she allowed herself to "relax", both of them nearly died. She did not want to experience that night again. Even if she will wake up again after dying, there was no way to know if Benita will too. Tuff died. Wad and Flint died. Amistan died. Neither of those woke up again. Eventually, right before she feels her eyelids succumb to their own weight and her consciousness slips away, Varielky whispers, though she's not sure if Benita can even hear the faint voice. "I'm sorry I couldn't save you from being taken away. I should have been stronger for everyone's sake."
The next morning you are alone in the saloon, eating a simple meal of boiled blue lizard eggs and unleavened bread, when Granophyre suddenly seems to hear a sound inaudible to the rest of you, and fishes among his pockets to reveal a small stone -- the messaging stone you have seen before. Strewn casts about for the location of the innkeeper, who, he finds, is still where he went after bringing you your meal, in back fixing a broken door. Granophyre utters a word, the stone throws light upwards, and there before you is the image of Omar El Idrissid, professor of history at the college of Orraca in Ishi Ammah. He looks worse than when you last saw him.
“Granophyre, I’m afraid my report will not bring you pleasure, once again. It is very bad. I have learned that Governor Ullaz has seen the artifact. He strongarmed the bank somehow to allow him access to my vault. He has sent an image of it to Jen Ghessa. I do not know what to expect, but you and I are both aware of the Empire’s long-standing desire to obtain ancient Dwarven secrets. You must be careful.”
“And by now,” replies Strewn, “our ruse of a trip up the coast will have been discovered, and some other destination for a large carriage will begin to come to mind. Ulloz will use whatever network of spies and communication is available to track our movements. Hopefully, he will not think of Kalahata first and foremost, but we must take care.”
El Idrissid continues, in a lighter tone of voice, “Tell your Mr. Blueschist that I have received news of another ancient Core of Amethyst short sword from the Gray Period.” With a tired smile, he continues, “I know he has a particular interest in weapons from that era…Good gods, Granophyre, what is the matter?,” he asks, for the sage’s face has seemed to age decades in the blink of an eye. Strewn recovers himself as well as he can and answers, clearing his throat quietly, “Omar. Tuff is…” and he can’t finish. “Please, in fact, I wish to ask you while I may. The Blueschist family must be…notified. Preparations made…for his remembrance. I will send you a letter upon my arrival in Kalahata. It will be addressed from the Abziri Amboule in Kalahata, and signed “Sherinan.” Please copy it and forward it to Core of Amethyst when it arrives. Can you?”
“Of course, Master Strewn. I am so very sorry. So very sorry.” And looking worse than he had at the communication’s beginning, the image disappears.
Granophyre rises to his feet silently a few moments later and exits the saloon to see to his mount, leaving breakfast uneaten.
You set off a few minutes later, and within an hour arrive at the Queen’s High Way, running east through the Bantu foothills. Landscaped and flat, covered evenly with gravel, the road eases your way, and you make 25 miles the next day and stop at another Shian village, much like the one at which you just stayed, but ten times larger. The inns are packed with Shians heading to Kalahata for the Spring Festival, and you can find only two small rooms to share between the seven of you.
Auger follows Ednyss thinking they might share an interest in fine wood carvings or perhaps he would have suggestions on improvements for the tools, being a dwarf and possibly having hidden skills as a maker himself. Either way Auger is quite excited. Upon hearing Ednyss' request Auger is shocked initially and hesitant, his tools were not made for cutting skin. Upon reflection Auger agrees, offering to use a limited form of his powers as he had with the top of his staff to apply some color to the--the... carving, if Ednyss so desires. (OOC: Auger's ability is pure color and not tied to any particular spell. Perhaps it could be justified as a small version of Color Spray and/or Eldritch Blast.) When it comes to making the tattoo the carving knifes are only used lightly to provide guiding lines and to ensure the color Auger projects from the Sea of Stars gets into Ednyss' skin. Just prior to the process starting Auger realizes his mind is wandering for a moment, picturing himself falling through the sky and in the distance seeing the symbol of D'ya Boabab. Thinking carefully Auger refocuses and makes sure to start with the straight lines of Takal Demesh's shield and not defiling it with the competing symbols crossing through Auger's mind.
As he concentrates on the work Auger smiles at the making of something.
The return of |Py|
Auger lights the incense he acquired in Hyewush and burns it along with Py's remains in his small brazier until there are nothing but coals and subtle smells. And then the work begins.
Auger takes the two pieces of Thuya wood and holds them together for a moment. Yes, that should be enough he thinks. Back and forth he goes between the two pieces, forming notches on both of them until after a time they can connect together in one continuous larger piece. Auger continues carving and shaping the wood. It comes to Auger that a different shape might create differing abilities and as Auger concentrates on the process he realizes that he can use his connection to the Sea of Stars to infuse something more into the form. This time the carving is bigger, bulkier, rounder. This will not fly, he thinks... unless... with a few deft cuts and a subtle application of powers he pushes something into the form, something certainly beyond what it could do normally. Yes. It will fly. Pushing more into it he infuses something else, something fey... something... that -- yes... he shivers at the thought of it, yes that will do. That will do quite nicely, he thinks. Concentrating again he reaches into Py's resting place, the fey's own place in the Sea of Stars, and pulls him down and down into the wood which slowly takes on hues of red and yellow of its own accord.
At last Auger leans back from the wooden interlocking pieces and examines the form carefully. A ladybug. As Auger watches a single antenna starts to move. And then a leg. And then the shell raises up, forming an image for a moment, some horrific image. Then it is just a shell again, and wings unfold and stretch from beneath the raised shell.
Auger sends, Well? How did I do? And... this is new to me. Should I-- should I still call you Py?
(OOC: The familiar is now based on the Quasit but with 40' of flight infused by default as a part of Auger's Investment of the Chain Master.)
After Granophyre receives his message
Auger steps outside to quietly talk with Granophyre, "The road to Kalahata seems like it could be more trouble. I suggest we hide our appearance and keep a low profile, certainly until you can send your message and reconnect with your friends and contacts. Perhaps we can hide in plain sight. If we can get a hold of a cart between here and there I might pass as a southern noble with..."Auger thinks of Tamazaert, "With my young wife and child and a small number of retainers. It would require better, cleaner clothing for most of us and... well I know nothing of Kalahata, we might still stick out like a sore thumb. What do you think?"
As Granophyre responds Auger observes him closely to try and see if his attempt at taking his mind off of Tuff is having any effect.
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DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
Ednyss breathes a sigh of relief at the symbol that is now carved into his arm. He feels a weight lifted from his shoulders as the presence of Takal Demesh ignites again within him. He knew that he was a capable warrior. His actions in the Orc camp proved that. He would never forget his mistake, but he wouldn't let it define him any longer. He whispers a short prayer, "Now Your grace will never leave me and I will work my hardest to ensure Your glory. I will be Your champion and bring honor to Your name." Feeling renewed in his faith, Ednyss thanks Auger profusely, "I don't know how I can repay you, but know that you have brought great peace of mind to an old dwarf." From there, Ednyss heads upstairs where he lays his shield down, says his evening prayers, and settles down for a rest with a peaceful mind and a calm soul.
(On the road)
Over the next two days, Ednyss's mind wanders frequently to the process by which he acquired his shield. He does not regret his actions with the skeletons in the slightest, but he cannot help but wonder why the natural environment of the ruins took such a harsh stance against his god. He knew that there had been a falling out between Demesh and Demsha, but the cause of the breakup was a source of confusion for him. Knowing Takal Demesh to be an honorable warrior, he assumed that either Demsha had been unreasonable or that there had been a misunderstanding. Regardless, Ednyss knew that he wouldn't be able to learn anything just by thinking about it to himself. But before, where he had been too shaky in his own beliefs to ever risk venturing beyond it, he now feels the burn of the same curiosity within him and knows that he can explore it without losing himself or his faith in the process.
Over the next few days, Ednyss attempts to talk to his mount. He knows it is probably futile at best and senile at worst, but he knows of no other way of reaching Demsha or her followers, so he talks. He does it surreptitiously, trying to conceal it from the other members of the group as if he is a bit embarrassed by his inability to come up with a better plan. He doesn't say anything particularly provocative, rather just comments on things that he notices around him. For example, when they passed a particularly sharp increase in elevation, he would make a quiet comment to the beast. Or if they encountered a particularly strangely shaped tree he would pat the beast's flank and point to it.
(In the Shian Village)
When Granophyre finishes his call, Ednyss sees Auger rise and decides to let Auger have a chat with Granophyre instead of interrupting. However, when they arrive in the Shian village, Ednyss attempts to pull Granophyre aside and speak with him while the others are preparing for their rest. The quarters themselves are quite cramped, so Ednyss suggests that the dwarves go outside and take a walk as they speak.
Auger sends, Well? How did I do? And... this is new to me. Should I-- should I still call you Py?
After Granophyre receives his message
Auger steps outside to quietly talk with Granophyre, "Perhaps we can hide in plain sight. If we can get a hold of a cart between here and there I might pass as a southern noble with.……What do you think?"
As Granophyre responds Auger observes him closely to try and see if his attempt at taking his mind off of Tuff is having any effect.
(The return of Py)
The creature instantly transforms fully into its quasit-shape, the ugliest thing Auger has ever seen, and responds, 'Call me whatever you flocking please, you dim-witted, son-of-a-toad, flock.' It leaps to attack Auger, but cries out in agony, bound by the Dowager's will not to harm the warlock, and it falls to the ground, writhing. 'Flocking summoners!' it seethes, then turns invisible and Auger hears wings buzzing loudly about his ears and away out of the window.
(Conversation with Granophyre)
Granophyre responds noncommittally to Auger, and his mind is plainly elsewhere. "Auger, let us speak of this another time," he asks, slightly miffed, and walks down the road and stands looking into the distance for a good while. When he returns and everyone has gathered, ready for the day's journey, Granophyre agrees to what Auger suggests. "Moreover," he adds, sighing deeply, "I do not think Ednyss and I should enter the city together, for they -- Imperial spies, if you will -- will be specifically looking for dwarves."
In the morning, Varielky braids her hair before exiting the room. 'Maybe I'll allow myself to relax,' she thinks, 'but not today.'
She has a lot on her mind now, but she's immediately alarmed when she hears the plan and the suggested split. "No. This will not work. She stays with me," Varielky points towards Tamazaert, "until I am sure she's safe. I chose to save her, she's my responsibility. And you," she turns to Benita, "are not leaving my sight either. Not anytime soon. According to your plan, the only way you two do not enter together is if one of you walks alone, as she must be with Sharp-Eyed if she poses as his wife. That is not acceptable. On that matter, how will you explain that the child of two Humans is a Jenghen? That will raise suspicion. If we must split, one of the Dwarves will come with us three while the other walks with Sharp-Eyed."
It takes Ednyss a few seconds to fully comprehend Auger's plan, and Varielky's plan has his head spinning. After a few minutes, Ednyss thinks he has an idea of what she is talking about and while Ednyss doesn't have a better idea, he thinks he notices a flaw in Varielky's plan. "What would be the traveling purpose of a group of three human women, one with a Jenghen child, and a dwarf? We need a reasonable explanation for why we are seeking entrance into the city after all."
Auger listens to the concerns and ideas of the others and is reflective. "Varielky, your concern about the Jenghen child might be answered if perhaps Tama posed as my daughter, and Sura my grandchild." Auger pauses to look at Tamazaert while the team looks at the both of them trying to determine if any resemblance exists that might help such a story. At 35, Auger is not a particularly tall human male at 5'8" and is slight of build. While his dark hair has not really started to recede there is a clear widow's peak forming. His hair is approximately chin length. His skin is of the deepest darkest purple you have seen on a human. The coat he wears which occasionally seems to catch the light unexpectedly is surely the finery of a noble (OOC: though probably not of a current style).
Thinking on Ednyss' words Auger adds, "Yes we should have logical cover stories but the hope would be that we could fade into the background and people would assume we are a normal set of people going about our business and usually not ask anything or note us." To all Auger adds, "Unless there is something I am not thinking of, our primary purpose would be to hide Granophyre's appearance and there are numerous ways we could split ourselves up or roles we could play to facilitate that."
Queeg?Auger sends, almost dreading the reply from his new... friend, What do you think?
(20th of Beauty, discussing plans for entry to Kalahata)
Benita says, over her back while tightening a saddle strap, “I don’t think we’re going to need to worry too much about it. It’s the Spring Festival. Starting tomorrow, right?” (OOC: yes.) “Shians and visitors from all over are going to be coming into the city for the Festival. The whole city turns out, it’s their big annual celebration. Which is nice since usually everyone is busy stabbing each other in the back,” she adds, wryly. “Trust me, I lived there for a while. Getting into Kalahata without drawing attention isn’t something to worry about. We can enter the city separately, and meet up an hour later. We’ll never be noticed.” She takes a deep breath, pauses for a moment, then turns to face Granophyre.
“Master Strewn, what’s happening when we get there? Our contract with Tuff said we’d work for you through the end of the month. But I take it that changed when... ,” she hardly loses a beat and continues, “...I take it that has changed. So, you’ve got to tell us what’s going on.” Granophyre’s eyebrows rise high and he shakes his head ruefully. “I...am sorry. I have not…,” and now it is his turn to search for words. “Tuff had a plan squared away. Without him...it has been decades since I was last in Kalahata. I will remain true to my word, and you may count on me for lodgings and meals through the end of Beauty. But during that time, I have...things which must be done...about Tuff...as soon as possible.” He looks around you confidentially. “But the next step in my quest will require help. It requires asking questions, for there is someone I must find. I will tell you more when we have safely arrived, if you will allow me that much time to organize my thoughts. Plainly, this journey, this quest for answers will take more time, and I will be most grateful if you four will continue in my service until the journey’s end.” He pauses, a taut look drawn upon his features, before continuing once again. “And we cannot forget that a debt must be paid to the Azhvuv at some time of their choosing.”
Benita, by this point, has gotten caught up on the deal made with the Azhvuv on her behalf. “I want you to know,” she says, looking around at you all, “that I owe the desert witches more than any of you do. The task should fall to me alone.”
(OOC: Auger has not seen or heard his familiar since it flew out of the window the prior night.)
Ednyss just nods to Granophyre when the scholar mentions continuing with him until his journey ends. Although he wouldn't say it, he had grown to trust the scholar's decisions and even perhaps like Granophyre a bit.
The priest looks sharply at Benita when she mentions completing the Azhvuv's task alone. "You cannot seriously think that we rescued you only to have you attempt to throw yourself back into death's open hands." Shaking his head he adds, "Regardless, I gave my word to the Azhvuv that I would help. I will not become a liar." The dwarf looks to Varielky for support.
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“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
(OOC: I had not realized that would be the case for Queeg. If I may add to the story then...)
When the new familiar disappears Auger is momentarily shocked and lets it go for a little while before recovering and messaging to it, asking it to return. If there is no response Auger summons the familiar to its pocket dimension and then lets it out again and sends, You are my voice of the Dowager and you shall stay in my presence. You shall also resume the form I carved for you. You will cooperate.
(OOC: Auger will repeat this process as needed.)
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DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
The creature does not come back of its own volition. When Auger summons it back, it has the decapitated head of a hen in its mouth and one wing in its claw, which drips warm blood upon Auger’s bedsheet. “You centipede sheit! You worm-begotten flock!”
When Auger issues his commands, which we can assume eventually include “silence,” the creature’s lips slam shut, and it glares at the southerner with unfettered malice, before it resumes its ladybug shape. The next morning when Auger awakens, the creature sits quietly immediately before Auger’s face, its pincer-teeth extended to within a hair’s breadth of the warlock’s neck. When Auger rises, he steps into his own chamber pot, knocking it across the floor and making a mess. It was not where he had left it — left it covered, mind you — when he went to sleep. At that moment, a moment of bothered annoyance, the ladybug stares at him with its unfathomable compound eyes, and if a bug can smile, it smiles wide, pincers vibrating in pure hatred.
"Then, as I said, it's us five, and then Ednyss and Sharp-Eyed separately." When Benita asks to pay the debt alone, Varielky simply replies: "No. Didn't I just say you're not leaving my sight? Especially not for a task which the Azhvuv themselves can't complete." There are a few things that Varielky still hoped to do once they're done with this journey. Multiple people across Orraca u Shia that needed some punching. From Abodolla to Xurl. Still, she took an oath that day, and she'll keep it. "I vowed to keep you safe to the best of my ability until you find what you are searching for." Varielky shrugs. "As long as it takes." Besides, she's still young. She should have time to deal with everyone at some point, even if the amount of people she still has unfinished business with is only increasing.
(OOC: Will edit in more later about the trip so quick summary here in case others need it for reaction)
At earliest opportunity Auger begins the ritual to bring his familiar back. The process involves carving a new figure from the Thuya wood he acquired back in Hyewush, while praying to Piya and forming a continuous bond to the Sea of Stars. It goes on for more than an hour. The familiar may be different in some fashion (OOC: discussion in chat)
(OOC: Level up! Auger has numerous things to ask about in chat)
Auger agrees to meet Ednyss and brings his woodcarving tools.
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
When Auger arrives Ednyss tells him something that has been on his mind for a while now. "You have probably been able to tell by now, that my shield is precious to me. However, I won't always be able to have it with me, and being away from and without His strength has been bothering me more and more recently." Ednyss takes a deep breath. "I know that there are methods of-" Ednyss pauses as he struggles to find the right word, "putting ink below the skin to form an image, but we may not encounter an artisan that can do that in the near future. I have seen your skill with those tools," the dwarf gestures to the woodcarving tools, "and I am not afraid of pain. A scar will make a mark just as permanent as ink, and I do not wish to wait any longer. Will you carve this symbol," Ednyss gestures to the simple shield symbol that he crudely attempted to draw into the ground with a stick, "into my arm?" Ednyss says this bluntly and pulls up his sleeve (his armor is already removed) so that the rough gray skin around his shoulder is revealed. If Auger agrees, Ednyss finds a stick and places it in his mouth, biting down hard to prevent him from shouting out, although he doubts the pain will be anything compared to the things he experienced during the war.
Once Auger is done carving, Ednyss will use whatever divine magic is necessary to close the wound if he can do so without removing the scar. If that is not possible, Ednyss will just bandage the wound to stop the bleeding and then let it heal naturally.
“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
Conversation, 19th of Beauty
When resting at the palm-encircled pond, Varielky strikes up a conversation with Tamazaert, and Granophyre joins in later
Q. Her life prior to capture by the Orcs. A. I was born in Kalahata, I have...family there. Well, not family, but people. It was a disagreement with an...uncle...that made me want to leave Kalahata. I was captured on the way to Ishi Ammah.
Q How do the Orcs treat the slaves? A. When I came of age, I was transferred from a farm to the harem. Orc men would come and visit. They had to be nice. Eventually, one of them, who was persistent and not unkind, won me over, I guess. He said he would protect me, and brought nice things for Sura.
Q Would she consider life good there, if their babies weren't taken away? A. I guess so. Things weren’t so great in Kalahata.
Q Did Tamazaert want a baby? A. I mean...that’s kind of what we’re there for. And I knew that my baby might have a better shot at life than me.
Q Could she choose who the father would be? A. I could say No for as long as I wanted. Or at least until I got old and was sent back to the farms. Finally one of the orcs was persistent and nice to me. I didn’t mind him.
Granophyre enters the conversation, his gentle basso calm and measured. “Slavery is a scourge...and the Jenghens merely continue a tragic line of kingdoms which have been raised up on the backs of enslaved people. I have read that they, the slaves, have been branded. Runaways are chased down, brought back, and whipped as a lesson to the rest. Sometimes they are whipped for trifles, simply to reinforce their subjugation and powerlessness. Remember too that the orcs ride under the imperial banner. Harboring a slave anywhere in the Empire, or transporting them abroad, is a treasonous offense.” And, knowing the quality Varielky treasures above all others, he continues, “Bravery has its limits.” The scholar looks sadly at Tamazaert, who pulls up her shirttail to reveal that she has a branding scar on the small of her back.
“But not Sura!,” she whispers, a tear rolling softly down her cheek. “He’ll be free to live his own life, thanks to you, Miss. Jenghen children aren’t branded.”
A few changes which come with leveling up:
Varielky: You awaken after hearing the voice of Veleif in your dreams. Something makes you unsheathe your sword. As you stare at it, it takes you a moment to notice. The carbonization over the next rune in the series seems...flaky. With your thumb, you rub it and it begins to come off, and in a few minutes, a new rune is uncovered on the edge of the blade: the glyph of Idiwala, or as you know him, Balder, god of speech and history. The sword is now +2, and the Lay On Hands feature now heals 10HP. And somehow, it is making you think of Veleif. His lessons resonate in your mind. And this will increase over the coming days.
Ednyss: your shield now gives you a +1 bonus to hit on spell and melee attacks when you are holding it, and, similarly, raises the DC +1 against saving throws vs spells you cast while holding it.
Auger: you find yourself daydreaming about your angelic airborne encounter with some frequency, especially the sensation of seeing the world from a great height. You had time before going to sleep in your room at the saloon to summon your familiar.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Varielky looks at the abhorrent scar on Tamazaert's back. Despite that, and all that she said, the woman ran with them, only for the baby's sake. Is he really worth it? Now, Varielky wonders if she has done Tamazaert a favour, or perhaps only made her fate worse. She needed guidance, some point of light in all the darkness and confusion that have been surrounding her lately. She was a sword, but she no longer trusted where she is cutting. She needed some hand to guide her path. The sword does not think of whom it cuts, it just cuts. For a moment, Varielky wants to be that way. Then, she dismisses the thought. No, she must be the one guiding herself. Only that way do her actions have meaning. Only that way can she take responsibility over her actions, for better or worse. "Maybe you're right, but I'm willing to find where those limits are." She turns to the woman. That long name... she could not yet remember it well. "We can try to get rid of this mark, but it will hurt, and I can't guarantee much. Do you want to try? There are many ways, at least one should work, if you can endure the pain. At the very least, we can make it less obvious, but that will hurt too. If not, you will bear this for the rest of your life. I'm willing to help, but it's your choice."
Fortunately, some point of light did shine in the dark. It has been quite some time since she actually thought about Veleif. What would he have done? She wonders. What would he have advised her to do? Would he praise her efforts, or reprimand her mistakes? Varielky looks at the new rune. Balder. It reminds her of the Dwarf they travelled with for a while from Ishi Ammah to Hyewush. Speech and history. For some, they may seem unrelated to battle, but each could be connected in a way. Dolkum knew that. She wonders what the ancestors who made the sword she wields thought of the matter. What did Veleif think of this in terms of battle? She could imagine a few explanations, she knew Veleif would present a dozen more. Perhaps she just needs to give it time and discover what the true meaning is when the moment comes. Varielky will trust the gods. As she can barely trust herself anymore, it's more than enough for her.
Varielky
Tamazaert seems horrified by Varielky's offer, but then seems to suddenly understand the danger her scar puts her in. "I will think about it, miss," she says, quietly.
(THE JOURNEY, 19th of Beauty, cont'd. / flashback)
Benita rides with Granophyre and quietly speaks with him after that first night’s sleep after the orcs. They converse about Tuff, the rest of you are led to believe, judging by her looks of sympathy and whispers, and due to Granophyre’s deep sadness. You get the impression that she was the only one of you who intuited the depth of Granophyre and Tuff's relationship. Later, as you all rise from your respite at the pond, Benita asks everyone to wait and addresses the party just before you mount up.
“I don’t know what to say, and...you know me well enough to know that I speak my mind.” She pauses briefly, a small wrinkle forming just at the point between her eyebrows as she searches visibly for words. “But, I just want to say...thank you. Bruiser. Ednyss, Master Strewn. Auger. I knew there was no way I’d be riding off on the back of a hyena with my hands bound unless Varielky was...dead. I knew it.” She looks at Varielky for a long moment, and the shield-maiden knows that her friend is keeping some thoughts to herself. “But...that was flocking brave, what you did. I’ll repay you all somehow.” She trails off, shakes her head, displeased with the limits of words to express her many emotions, and she then mounts up.
Tamazaert, who had been somberly bouncing Sura on her hip, picks up from the Indallian. “I know I can never repay you all for taking Sura and me with you. I know I’m probably slowing you down…” and she now trails off. “Thank you,” she finishes humbly.
That night, at the village saloon, and after everyone has gone to bed and it is dark and quiet, Benita, who is sharing a large room with Varielky and Tamazaert, tip-toes to Varielky, crouches beside her bed on the floor, and leans her head back against the wall, pushing a few stray hairs out of her face with her graceful fingers while speaking in an undertone whose calm belies the emotions under the surface.
“Varielky. I thought you were dead. I thought everyone I have ever cared about was dead. After Bali…” She pauses, fighting to keep her thoughts in line. “And a part of me thought, well, this is it, this is how it goes for me. That’s what happens if I care. I lose. And then Shulong...he’s strong, Vee. You couldn’t have known it, but he was also gentle. He talked me back from the edge. At least part way. And, well, look. Come on, Bruiser...you know I like big guys.” And Varielky pictures Bali in her mind, hulking, brawny, no-necked, soft-spoken Bali.
“I know you have this forearm measuring contest going on with Shulong, but...he’s not…” She pauses again, unable to find words. “Just remember,” she goes on, “I don’t know if I’d be here if not for him. If that matters.”
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Varielky quietly listens. Benita's words in the morning still echoing in her mind. Eventually, she speaks. It's not her normal confident a strong voice. Rather, it's an unsure one. A seeking one. "Would you... rather we didn't come? Or, perhaps, left you there? I took it for granted that you'd be struggling as hard as you can to break free, but maybe I didn't think of what you would do, and more about what I would have done. Maybe... I didn't really think of you at all." Varielky stops, and she thinks about all that Benita and Tamazaert said. She undoes her braid, then runs her fingers through her hair and shakes her head, scattering her hair, letting it breathe a little. She thinks about other girls from her village, back then. They always cared a lot for their hair - how it looks, how it feels, how others view it... Varielky only made sure that it doesn't get in the way. Maybe the fact that she never cut it completely short was a relic of the girl she used to be. She wondered who she'd be at this time had her parents stayed alive. It's too hard to imagine.
Varielky glances towards Tamazaert and the baby. Had she not come, or took much longer, would Benita look the same right now? Would she also carry a Jenghen in her arms - Xurl's baby? What then? Would she still have come with Varielky? "Tell me just one thing." Varielky turns back to Benita. "The mark that she bears on her back, do you bear it too? Did they do the same to you? Going with me has always been a risk, I suppose, as it will always involve fighting, but what about you? What will you do now? I'm not even sure whether master Strewn still wants to pursue his previous goal. We owe the Azhvuv a favour, but it has nothing to do with you. And, lastly, if we face... Xurl, again... what will you do then?"
Varielky
(19th of Beauty: Varielky & Benita)
V: Would you... rather we didn't come? Or, perhaps, left you there?
B: Bruiser, no one made me come with you. Friends to the end, Vee.
V: Maybe... I didn't really think of you at all.
B: Yeh. Well empathy isn’t really your strong suit.
V: [She undoes her braid, then runs her fingers through her hair and shakes her head, scattering her hair, letting it breathe a little.]
B: See, Vee, you don’t even know how beautiful you are. I know you’re flocking married to Takal Demesh and all, but…would it kill you to relax just a bit? I bet you don’t even notice how men — and some women — look at you.
V: The mark that she bears on her back, do you bear it too? Did they do the same to you?
B: They…didn’t. (Varielky can tell that’s not the whole story.)
V: What will you do now?
B: Same as always. See what comes next. I don’t think Granophyre has given up on his life’s work yet.
V: if we face... Xurl, again... what will you do then?
B: (Benita doesn’t answer this question.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Varielky looks in silence until it is clear Benita won't answer her last question. She turns away on her bed, now facing the wall, but she cannot bring herself to close her eyes as her thoughts are such a mess. She remains silent as she thinks about all that Benita said. The last time she allowed herself to "relax", both of them nearly died. She did not want to experience that night again. Even if she will wake up again after dying, there was no way to know if Benita will too. Tuff died. Wad and Flint died. Amistan died. Neither of those woke up again. Eventually, right before she feels her eyelids succumb to their own weight and her consciousness slips away, Varielky whispers, though she's not sure if Benita can even hear the faint voice. "I'm sorry I couldn't save you from being taken away. I should have been stronger for everyone's sake."
Varielky
(20th of Beauty)
The next morning you are alone in the saloon, eating a simple meal of boiled blue lizard eggs and unleavened bread, when Granophyre suddenly seems to hear a sound inaudible to the rest of you, and fishes among his pockets to reveal a small stone -- the messaging stone you have seen before. Strewn casts about for the location of the innkeeper, who, he finds, is still where he went after bringing you your meal, in back fixing a broken door. Granophyre utters a word, the stone throws light upwards, and there before you is the image of Omar El Idrissid, professor of history at the college of Orraca in Ishi Ammah. He looks worse than when you last saw him.
“Granophyre, I’m afraid my report will not bring you pleasure, once again. It is very bad. I have learned that Governor Ullaz has seen the artifact. He strongarmed the bank somehow to allow him access to my vault. He has sent an image of it to Jen Ghessa. I do not know what to expect, but you and I are both aware of the Empire’s long-standing desire to obtain ancient Dwarven secrets. You must be careful.”
“And by now,” replies Strewn, “our ruse of a trip up the coast will have been discovered, and some other destination for a large carriage will begin to come to mind. Ulloz will use whatever network of spies and communication is available to track our movements. Hopefully, he will not think of Kalahata first and foremost, but we must take care.”
El Idrissid continues, in a lighter tone of voice, “Tell your Mr. Blueschist that I have received news of another ancient Core of Amethyst short sword from the Gray Period.” With a tired smile, he continues, “I know he has a particular interest in weapons from that era…Good gods, Granophyre, what is the matter?,” he asks, for the sage’s face has seemed to age decades in the blink of an eye. Strewn recovers himself as well as he can and answers, clearing his throat quietly, “Omar. Tuff is…” and he can’t finish. “Please, in fact, I wish to ask you while I may. The Blueschist family must be…notified. Preparations made…for his remembrance. I will send you a letter upon my arrival in Kalahata. It will be addressed from the Abziri Amboule in Kalahata, and signed “Sherinan.” Please copy it and forward it to Core of Amethyst when it arrives. Can you?”
“Of course, Master Strewn. I am so very sorry. So very sorry.” And looking worse than he had at the communication’s beginning, the image disappears.
Granophyre rises to his feet silently a few moments later and exits the saloon to see to his mount, leaving breakfast uneaten.
You set off a few minutes later, and within an hour arrive at the Queen’s High Way, running east through the Bantu foothills. Landscaped and flat, covered evenly with gravel, the road eases your way, and you make 25 miles the next day and stop at another Shian village, much like the one at which you just stayed, but ten times larger. The inns are packed with Shians heading to Kalahata for the Spring Festival, and you can find only two small rooms to share between the seven of you.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
With Ednyss
Auger follows Ednyss thinking they might share an interest in fine wood carvings or perhaps he would have suggestions on improvements for the tools, being a dwarf and possibly having hidden skills as a maker himself. Either way Auger is quite excited. Upon hearing Ednyss' request Auger is shocked initially and hesitant, his tools were not made for cutting skin. Upon reflection Auger agrees, offering to use a limited form of his powers as he had with the top of his staff to apply some color to the--the... carving, if Ednyss so desires. (OOC: Auger's ability is pure color and not tied to any particular spell. Perhaps it could be justified as a small version of Color Spray and/or Eldritch Blast.) When it comes to making the tattoo the carving knifes are only used lightly to provide guiding lines and to ensure the color Auger projects from the Sea of Stars gets into Ednyss' skin. Just prior to the process starting Auger realizes his mind is wandering for a moment, picturing himself falling through the sky and in the distance seeing the symbol of D'ya Boabab. Thinking carefully Auger refocuses and makes sure to start with the straight lines of Takal Demesh's shield and not defiling it with the competing symbols crossing through Auger's mind.
As he concentrates on the work Auger smiles at the making of something.
The return of |Py|
Auger lights the incense he acquired in Hyewush and burns it along with Py's remains in his small brazier until there are nothing but coals and subtle smells. And then the work begins.
Auger takes the two pieces of Thuya wood and holds them together for a moment. Yes, that should be enough he thinks. Back and forth he goes between the two pieces, forming notches on both of them until after a time they can connect together in one continuous larger piece. Auger continues carving and shaping the wood. It comes to Auger that a different shape might create differing abilities and as Auger concentrates on the process he realizes that he can use his connection to the Sea of Stars to infuse something more into the form. This time the carving is bigger, bulkier, rounder. This will not fly, he thinks... unless... with a few deft cuts and a subtle application of powers he pushes something into the form, something certainly beyond what it could do normally. Yes. It will fly. Pushing more into it he infuses something else, something fey... something... that -- yes... he shivers at the thought of it, yes that will do. That will do quite nicely, he thinks. Concentrating again he reaches into Py's resting place, the fey's own place in the Sea of Stars, and pulls him down and down into the wood which slowly takes on hues of red and yellow of its own accord.
At last Auger leans back from the wooden interlocking pieces and examines the form carefully. A ladybug. As Auger watches a single antenna starts to move. And then a leg. And then the shell raises up, forming an image for a moment, some horrific image. Then it is just a shell again, and wings unfold and stretch from beneath the raised shell.
Auger sends, Well? How did I do? And... this is new to me. Should I-- should I still call you Py?
(OOC: The familiar is now based on the Quasit but with 40' of flight infused by default as a part of Auger's Investment of the Chain Master.)
After Granophyre receives his message
Auger steps outside to quietly talk with Granophyre, "The road to Kalahata seems like it could be more trouble. I suggest we hide our appearance and keep a low profile, certainly until you can send your message and reconnect with your friends and contacts. Perhaps we can hide in plain sight. If we can get a hold of a cart between here and there I might pass as a southern noble with..." Auger thinks of Tamazaert, "With my young wife and child and a small number of retainers. It would require better, cleaner clothing for most of us and... well I know nothing of Kalahata, we might still stick out like a sore thumb. What do you think?"
As Granophyre responds Auger observes him closely to try and see if his attempt at taking his mind off of Tuff is having any effect.
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
(After the Carving)
Ednyss breathes a sigh of relief at the symbol that is now carved into his arm. He feels a weight lifted from his shoulders as the presence of Takal Demesh ignites again within him. He knew that he was a capable warrior. His actions in the Orc camp proved that. He would never forget his mistake, but he wouldn't let it define him any longer. He whispers a short prayer, "Now Your grace will never leave me and I will work my hardest to ensure Your glory. I will be Your champion and bring honor to Your name." Feeling renewed in his faith, Ednyss thanks Auger profusely, "I don't know how I can repay you, but know that you have brought great peace of mind to an old dwarf." From there, Ednyss heads upstairs where he lays his shield down, says his evening prayers, and settles down for a rest with a peaceful mind and a calm soul.
(On the road)
Over the next two days, Ednyss's mind wanders frequently to the process by which he acquired his shield. He does not regret his actions with the skeletons in the slightest, but he cannot help but wonder why the natural environment of the ruins took such a harsh stance against his god. He knew that there had been a falling out between Demesh and Demsha, but the cause of the breakup was a source of confusion for him. Knowing Takal Demesh to be an honorable warrior, he assumed that either Demsha had been unreasonable or that there had been a misunderstanding. Regardless, Ednyss knew that he wouldn't be able to learn anything just by thinking about it to himself. But before, where he had been too shaky in his own beliefs to ever risk venturing beyond it, he now feels the burn of the same curiosity within him and knows that he can explore it without losing himself or his faith in the process.
Over the next few days, Ednyss attempts to talk to his mount. He knows it is probably futile at best and senile at worst, but he knows of no other way of reaching Demsha or her followers, so he talks. He does it surreptitiously, trying to conceal it from the other members of the group as if he is a bit embarrassed by his inability to come up with a better plan. He doesn't say anything particularly provocative, rather just comments on things that he notices around him. For example, when they passed a particularly sharp increase in elevation, he would make a quiet comment to the beast. Or if they encountered a particularly strangely shaped tree he would pat the beast's flank and point to it.
(In the Shian Village)
When Granophyre finishes his call, Ednyss sees Auger rise and decides to let Auger have a chat with Granophyre instead of interrupting. However, when they arrive in the Shian village, Ednyss attempts to pull Granophyre aside and speak with him while the others are preparing for their rest. The quarters themselves are quite cramped, so Ednyss suggests that the dwarves go outside and take a walk as they speak.
“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
(The return of Py)
The creature instantly transforms fully into its quasit-shape, the ugliest thing Auger has ever seen, and responds, 'Call me whatever you flocking please, you dim-witted, son-of-a-toad, flock.' It leaps to attack Auger, but cries out in agony, bound by the Dowager's will not to harm the warlock, and it falls to the ground, writhing. 'Flocking summoners!' it seethes, then turns invisible and Auger hears wings buzzing loudly about his ears and away out of the window.
(Conversation with Granophyre)
Granophyre responds noncommittally to Auger, and his mind is plainly elsewhere. "Auger, let us speak of this another time," he asks, slightly miffed, and walks down the road and stands looking into the distance for a good while. When he returns and everyone has gathered, ready for the day's journey, Granophyre agrees to what Auger suggests. "Moreover," he adds, sighing deeply, "I do not think Ednyss and I should enter the city together, for they -- Imperial spies, if you will -- will be specifically looking for dwarves."
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
In the morning, Varielky braids her hair before exiting the room. 'Maybe I'll allow myself to relax,' she thinks, 'but not today.'
She has a lot on her mind now, but she's immediately alarmed when she hears the plan and the suggested split. "No. This will not work. She stays with me," Varielky points towards Tamazaert, "until I am sure she's safe. I chose to save her, she's my responsibility. And you," she turns to Benita, "are not leaving my sight either. Not anytime soon. According to your plan, the only way you two do not enter together is if one of you walks alone, as she must be with Sharp-Eyed if she poses as his wife. That is not acceptable. On that matter, how will you explain that the child of two Humans is a Jenghen? That will raise suspicion. If we must split, one of the Dwarves will come with us three while the other walks with Sharp-Eyed."
Varielky
It takes Ednyss a few seconds to fully comprehend Auger's plan, and Varielky's plan has his head spinning. After a few minutes, Ednyss thinks he has an idea of what she is talking about and while Ednyss doesn't have a better idea, he thinks he notices a flaw in Varielky's plan. "What would be the traveling purpose of a group of three human women, one with a Jenghen child, and a dwarf? We need a reasonable explanation for why we are seeking entrance into the city after all."
“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
Auger listens to the concerns and ideas of the others and is reflective. "Varielky, your concern about the Jenghen child might be answered if perhaps Tama posed as my daughter, and Sura my grandchild." Auger pauses to look at Tamazaert while the team looks at the both of them trying to determine if any resemblance exists that might help such a story. At 35, Auger is not a particularly tall human male at 5'8" and is slight of build. While his dark hair has not really started to recede there is a clear widow's peak forming. His hair is approximately chin length. His skin is of the deepest darkest purple you have seen on a human. The coat he wears which occasionally seems to catch the light unexpectedly is surely the finery of a noble (OOC: though probably not of a current style).
Thinking on Ednyss' words Auger adds, "Yes we should have logical cover stories but the hope would be that we could fade into the background and people would assume we are a normal set of people going about our business and usually not ask anything or note us." To all Auger adds, "Unless there is something I am not thinking of, our primary purpose would be to hide Granophyre's appearance and there are numerous ways we could split ourselves up or roles we could play to facilitate that."
Queeg? Auger sends, almost dreading the reply from his new... friend, What do you think?DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
(20th of Beauty, discussing plans for entry to Kalahata)
Benita says, over her back while tightening a saddle strap, “I don’t think we’re going to need to worry too much about it. It’s the Spring Festival. Starting tomorrow, right?” (OOC: yes.) “Shians and visitors from all over are going to be coming into the city for the Festival. The whole city turns out, it’s their big annual celebration. Which is nice since usually everyone is busy stabbing each other in the back,” she adds, wryly. “Trust me, I lived there for a while. Getting into Kalahata without drawing attention isn’t something to worry about. We can enter the city separately, and meet up an hour later. We’ll never be noticed.” She takes a deep breath, pauses for a moment, then turns to face Granophyre.
“Master Strewn, what’s happening when we get there? Our contract with Tuff said we’d work for you through the end of the month. But I take it that changed when... ,” she hardly loses a beat and continues, “...I take it that has changed. So, you’ve got to tell us what’s going on.”
Granophyre’s eyebrows rise high and he shakes his head ruefully. “I...am sorry. I have not…,” and now it is his turn to search for words. “Tuff had a plan squared away. Without him...it has been decades since I was last in Kalahata. I will remain true to my word, and you may count on me for lodgings and meals through the end of Beauty. But during that time, I have...things which must be done...about Tuff...as soon as possible.” He looks around you confidentially. “But the next step in my quest will require help. It requires asking questions, for there is someone I must find. I will tell you more when we have safely arrived, if you will allow me that much time to organize my thoughts. Plainly, this journey, this quest for answers will take more time, and I will be most grateful if you four will continue in my service until the journey’s end.” He pauses, a taut look drawn upon his features, before continuing once again. “And we cannot forget that a debt must be paid to the Azhvuv at some time of their choosing.”
Benita, by this point, has gotten caught up on the deal made with the Azhvuv on her behalf. “I want you to know,” she says, looking around at you all, “that I owe the desert witches more than any of you do. The task should fall to me alone.”
(OOC: Auger has not seen or heard his familiar since it flew out of the window the prior night.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Ednyss just nods to Granophyre when the scholar mentions continuing with him until his journey ends. Although he wouldn't say it, he had grown to trust the scholar's decisions and even perhaps like Granophyre a bit.
The priest looks sharply at Benita when she mentions completing the Azhvuv's task alone. "You cannot seriously think that we rescued you only to have you attempt to throw yourself back into death's open hands." Shaking his head he adds, "Regardless, I gave my word to the Azhvuv that I would help. I will not become a liar." The dwarf looks to Varielky for support.
“The mark of a successful DM is when you have caused more player deaths with doors than dragons, demons, or devils.”
(OOC: I had not realized that would be the case for Queeg. If I may add to the story then...)
When the new familiar disappears Auger is momentarily shocked and lets it go for a little while before recovering and messaging to it, asking it to return. If there is no response Auger summons the familiar to its pocket dimension and then lets it out again and sends, You are my voice of the Dowager and you shall stay in my presence. You shall also resume the form I carved for you. You will cooperate.
(OOC: Auger will repeat this process as needed.)
DM of RotFM | AUGER the Warlock (Archfey & the Chain) / Shadow Sorcerer in Age of Resurgence | Rahui & Javier in Sea of Memory
The creature does not come back of its own volition. When Auger summons it back, it has the decapitated head of a hen in its mouth and one wing in its claw, which drips warm blood upon Auger’s bedsheet.
“You centipede sheit! You worm-begotten flock!”
When Auger issues his commands, which we can assume eventually include “silence,” the creature’s lips slam shut, and it glares at the southerner with unfettered malice, before it resumes its ladybug shape.
The next morning when Auger awakens, the creature sits quietly immediately before Auger’s face, its pincer-teeth extended to within a hair’s breadth of the warlock’s neck.
When Auger rises, he steps into his own chamber pot, knocking it across the floor and making a mess. It was not where he had left it — left it covered, mind you — when he went to sleep. At that moment, a moment of bothered annoyance, the ladybug stares at him with its unfathomable compound eyes, and if a bug can smile, it smiles wide, pincers vibrating in pure hatred.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
"Then, as I said, it's us five, and then Ednyss and Sharp-Eyed separately." When Benita asks to pay the debt alone, Varielky simply replies: "No. Didn't I just say you're not leaving my sight? Especially not for a task which the Azhvuv themselves can't complete."
There are a few things that Varielky still hoped to do once they're done with this journey. Multiple people across Orraca u Shia that needed some punching. From Abodolla to Xurl. Still, she took an oath that day, and she'll keep it. "I vowed to keep you safe to the best of my ability until you find what you are searching for." Varielky shrugs. "As long as it takes." Besides, she's still young. She should have time to deal with everyone at some point, even if the amount of people she still has unfinished business with is only increasing.
Varielky