Eadyan nods. "Nice to meet you as well, along with the rest of your companions. My name is Eadyan Falconmoon, but I guess Harmony must have already told you that. Shame that we all had to meet under these stressful circumstances..."
Hearing the voices, Leosin arrives. "Eadyan, what's all this? Who...?" He asks, as Leyding hides behind the priest's back. It's obvious that while the monk knew of the gnoll's existence, this is the first time he sees her.
"This is Leosin Erlanthar, a friend of mine..."Eadyan explains to the newcomers at the Temple, but mostly to Leyding. "Leosin, this is Leyding. Still harmless, you see?" He explains to the monk with a smile. "Harmony and her companions brought her here... Along with three cultists."
Upon hearing that explanation, Leosin quickly turns his gaze towards Ignar and the two kobolds. As Eadyan explains to him what Petmailer just told him and they move them downstairs, the kobold sorcerer gives a side glance to Nurm and smiles to himself. He still believes him to be an ally to the Cult.
"He is right, you know?" You can hear Eadyan say to the half-orc. "It's not too late for you. There's lots of benevolent goddesses and gods out there for you to follow instead..."
"Spare me the sermon." Ignar grumbles. He sounds very tired.
While they move the captured cultists downstairs to deal with later, Leyding takes the opportunity to say something. "He smells scary, Eadyan's friend." She says. She doesn't sound scared, just very confused. Like she just found something that doesn't makes sense to her. "He smells like the guys with the scary robes."
Both Eadyan and Leosin return after that. "Thank you for bringing those cultists here. We shall give them to Nighthill and Escobert tomorrow morning, they will know what to do with them. Now then..." Leosin says, sitting down. "Please do tell us what happened, and if you don't mind please tell me who you are if you haven't already, I see some new faces here."
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Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Before the priests return, Kane kneels down and listens to Leyding. “He smells like..the scary guys.” Kane understands what she means. He nods silently. When the priests return, he introduces himself. “I am Akanos Novak, adventurer and Sage. When we arrived to Milo’s house, we found these kolbolds, Leyding, and a cult priest. The priest got away, leaving the kobolds to fight us. We captured these two, killed the rest, and interrogated the prisoners. We have learned that their is a camp of cultists nearby. Their exact location is still vague but we will find them. After we drop off the prisoners and Leyding, we plan to regroup at the tavern with Mr. Nighthill and look for the camp tomorrow.” Kane then looks at Eadyan, “May I speak with you in private? I have some questions about the temple.” Kane looks at Leosin with suspicion. Insight: 14
You don't see anything suspicious on Leosin, except that he seems very driven to uncover the Cult's plans and have been working on it. Maybe that's what Leyding smelled?
"That sounds like a plan..." Leosin nods, staring back at Kane. He seems as wary of the tiefling as he is of him, but ultimately pays him no mind.
Eadyan is far more trusting. "Of course! I'm always happy to talk about this humble temple to anyone interested on it. Ask away, I shall answer." He assures, his expression brightening. He guides you away from the rest of the group, further down the chapel, where there's a large stained glass despicting a woman in green surrounded by golden grain and red flowers. From here, you can still see the rest of the group, but you can't hear them nor can they hear you.
Feeling tired, Leyding yawns and lays down on a bench, curling up inside the oversized cloak like if it was a blanket. She's not sleeping just yet, as she still seems to be listening or trying to listen the conversation, but she's sleepy.
Rolling his eyes that Eadyan is seemingly going to go talk about his temple and his goddess at a moment like this instead of saving that conversation for later, Leosin focus on the rest of the group. He notices immediately that the dragonborn is missing, but quickly decides against asking about it. He raises an eyebrow when he sees Nurm, like he doesn't know what to make of the strange wizard, but doesn't ask the obvious question directly. "What a ragtag group you all seem to be..." He comments, amused. "But in just a day you all seem to have gotten more information than what I had managed to gather in a week. I must admit, I'm impressed!"
He looks to Nurm, then to Harmony and Gunra, then to Petmailer. He whispers something in Elvish for only the moon elf to hear, then turns to the rest of the party. "Are you all in agreement with Novak's plan, or is it there's something important that has not been said yet? You can save all the little details for when Nighthill asks you about them, I just wants us all to be on the same page here."
To Petmailer:
"The Harpers will be very pleased when they hear about this."
Once away from the group, Kane turns to Eadyan, “This is a lovely temple and perhaps we can discuss it some other time. I have a different reason for wanting to talk to you.” He glances over at the group to see if anyone is watching. “While you and Leosin were gone, Leyding made a comment about how he smelled. She said he smelled like a dragon cultist. Now, I’ve known Leyding for a few hours, and I trust her and she trusts me, so I am concerned. How long have you known Leosin? What was he doing before he came here?”
Nurm returns Leosin's look with a stare. The Gith's eyes could pierce a mountain. Seeing the Tiefling did not mention the important bit, Nurm decides to break the silence
Yes, there is something important that is not yet known by you. The cult plans to attack and end this town. Soon! I think you should get everyone to safety while you still have some time. Regarding the prisoners, I have plans with the white kobold, the rest of them should face your justice.
Eadyan's expression is one of confusion. "Leyding said that?" He asks, and shakes his head. "I'm sure she's being honest, but she must have gotten confused. I have known Leosin for some years nows, and he has spent hunting this cult even longer. I probably shouldn't mention this to you, but..." He glances over Leosin to make sure he's not listening before continuing. "He's not tracking down the cult alone, he's working for his organization. He's one of the Harpers."
He says this in a hushed tone, like he's afraid that someone might be listening. "You might not recognize the name, but they are an organization dedicated to do good in the world. Leosin is very loyal to them, and he has nothing to do with the cult except wanting to taken them all down."
To the others:
Leosin listens to Nurm in silence, his face pales as he hears the news but allows the Gith to finish talking first before answering. "That changes everything. We must inform Nighthill of this right now." He declares, and stands up. "But first, what do you plan to do with the white kobold? Is it important? And second of all..."
The monk looks Nurm in the eye. "What are you, exactly? How do I know you can be trusted?"
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Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
Nurm's visage does not change a bit. Not a single muscle in his face flinches. Only the crystal on his neck starts to dimly shine. Yet his mind is working on a full capacity
My people are known as Githzerai. We dwell in the outer planes, but we rarely visit your world.
Nurm pauses for a tiny bit of a second. Most mortals would not even notice it, yet, for his mind, this tiny break allows him to analyze the priest's questions. Nurm decides that the question regarding his trustworthiness bears no actual value, since the priest would not know, whether Nurm speaks the truth.
To continue with his plan, he would need at least some basic cooperation from the priest. Nurm thus decides to share a bit of his plan with him.
As, for the lizzard, suffice to know is that he may be valuable in our further search. I want to use him as a spy.
Petmailer nods to Leosin and sends him a message :
"All beings should walk free of fear." We should talk soon, we have shared what we have learned, I would ask your assistance.
He then speaks to Leosin and the group, "I agree that we should share this with Nighthill right away. Who knows when they may plan to attack. The half-orc Ignar gave me information to find their camp. If the white kobold can be used as an asset, so be it, all the better. But we must plan a way to deal with these cultists and protect Greenest from attack."
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A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
"Well, there's a problem. Do we think they can bring a dragon to bear? If so, we need to prepare for an aerial attack. Ballistae would be ideal. . . But that effort is wasted if they just bring foot soldiers. Would a preemptive strike on their camp be a good idea?"
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Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Harmony stands back, listening to the conversation pass. She wasn't really present for any of the interrogations, so she doesn't know nearly as much as the others do. She lets them explain while she keeps an eye on Leyding, making sure she's not getting into trouble.
Eventually, she chimes in:"If we're going to this camp anyways, we might as well destroy it. The cultists can't attack if there are no cultists." She stops to think for a moment. That's a pretty vague plan with a lot of room for error, even by her standards. "Do we know how big the camp is? Or when the attack is supposed to happen?"
((Looks like I posted at nearly the same time as Gunra! Edited my post a bit to make a bit more sense with his))
I don't think the town can defend itself against a full scale attack of dragons. Even if we attack the camp, we won't be able to stop any dragons already in the air. You should start evacuation immediately.
Nurm pauses for a while so the others may process his warning.
The lizard mentioned someone called "Langdedrosa Cyanwrath". I don't know the name, yet it makes me unease.
Leosin is obviously not entirely satisfied by Nurm's answer, but he lets it aside. "Outer planes... Someone who had sworn the oath of the Watchers would definetely interrogate you more about that, but I'm not one of them and it is not my problem. If you believe you can get that kobold to spy for you, you are free to do whatever you wish with it."
He gives a nod and a smile to Petmailer, a silent agreement to the message he just sent him. Then he focuses on the current conversation again.
"I don't know how many cultists will be on that camp, but I'm afraid you might be underestimating them." He answers to Harmony, shaking his head. "I'm sure you and your friends are powerful, but the Cult is something else. Back then, before they allied themselves with the Church of Tiamat for this whole mask nonsense, they were obssessed with undead dragons and were making dracoliches, and those dragons weren't the only liches in their ranks. Their knowledge of necromancy is something to fear. And now..."
He sighs. "I doubt they would bother sending their dragons or their dracoliches on such a small town, but I'm with the Githzerai on this one: Evacuating is our best option." He admits, troubled. "Of course, I don't have the power to decide that, we must speak with Nighthill. And I'm afraid evacuating isn't also devoid of potential risks..."
He pulls out a scroll from the bag on his back and shows it to all of you: It's a map of the Sword Coast. "I was working on this. It's not complete, but it should give you an idea of where we are located and what our options are."
"As you can see here, our closest options are two... Well, if you want to get technical, we actually have three options, but I wouldn't even call that third one an option if it were me, and I'm sure Nighthill will agree." He explains. He points to the map.
"If you want my opinion, Berdusk is our best option: Some people call it the Jewel of the Vale. It's a peaceful fishing town, but their people are also famous for standing their ground against monsters. More importantly, I happen to have some contacts there, at their local Temple."
"Then again, Iriabor is also an option." He admits with a shurg. "The City of a Thousand Spires, they call it. It's far bigger and larger than Berdusk, so that might be something to considerate before making a decision."
"As for the third "option"... As I said before, I wouldn't even consider it an option." He grumbles. "But since we are bound to pass very close to it if we travel to Berdusk, might as well mention it now. Do you see that clear patch of land in the Wood of Sharp Teeth?" He asks, pointing to it. "It's sadly devoid of woods for a reason."
He grabs his cartography tools and marks the area with its name.
"Helviraena is its name, but everyone I know knows it by the name of the Poisoned Grove." He explains. "They pride themselves of being a city of druids and bards, but there's also a large number of assassins and thieves in there. I do not trust them." He adresses everyone as he speaks, but he looks at Petmailer in particular as he says it. "I'm sure you all already know the reason why."
"As forLangdedrosa Cyanwrath... I'm afraid he's indeed bad news."Leosin states. "I haven't fought against him yet, but rumors says he's a fearsome warrior, a half-dragon of blue dragon heritage. He's not something to be taken lightly."
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Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
Petmailer’s jaw firms up at the last as Leosin is explaining. He straightens up and says to the group “As you have surmised, I am from Helviraena. While much of what you say is true, it is a generalization and a stereotype to characterize us that way. While there are darker elements and our people struggle with the correct path forward, there are many who hope to make us a better, stronger people and lead us away from dark plans. There are rumors of a Shadow Dragon there in the dark depths, and there are those in high places that may be trying to lead us away from virtue and peace, but there are those of us who stand up to them.” He straightens up then pauses, gauging if he spoke to much, but it is clear that it came from the heart. “I may be able to help us if we travel there, but it is a tough decision, I agree with the need to evacuate, but we need to decide the best plan against these cultists. I would be curious to hear Nighthill’s counsel as well.”
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A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Gunra eyes Petmailer warily. Darker elements, he says. The image of the masked elf executing a helpless captive rises unbidden to the tortle's mind. That explained a few things.
"If you think the Cult is looking to expand and raid, we probably want to get as far away as possible. We should be prepared to flee to Baldur's Gate - it is the largest city around, right? In which case. . . The Poisoned Grove may be our best option. We stop there, supply, make a plea to the druids. Maybe see if an assassin will take a contract against that Longdeadroses individual. Then we press on to Balder's Gate?"
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Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Leosin nods. "Of course, it wasn't my intention to sound too harsh." He explains in an apologetic tone. "You must understand, though, and this also goes to anyone here who doesn't know of the place: Ultimately, Helviraena is a Drow settlement, one of the largest ones there is at the surface, and there's as many goblins as there's elves living in there as well. So while there might be many in there who mean good, people aren't going to feel safe around them any time soon."
"Leaving that aside..." He says. "Let's wait for Eadyan and Akanos to finish talking, and I hope it's soon, or we might have to interrupt them. I think we all agree we must go and tell the Governor all about this so that we can start planning."
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Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
Turning to look at the tortle, he answers. "Yes, Baldur's Gate would be the safest option... But indeed we would have to stop at Helviraena and the sharp woods to get there. It's going to be tough to plan all of this."
"As for the assassin idea..." He says, disapproval clear in his voice. "I'll have to admit I'm not a fan of employing such underhanded methods, but when dealing with the Cult we might have to start looking into options like that if it gets to it."
Akanos thinks on what Eadyan says. “Hmmm, no, I haven’t heard of the Harpers. But if you trust him, then I trust him.” He leaves Eadyan and goes to rejoin the others. (I’m assuming someone will fill in Akanos of everything said before.) “I don’t know if we should to the Poisoned Grove, it’s full of thieves and assassins.” He looks at the other options. “Iraibor is bigger and possibly safer, but it could also be a bigger target. Berdusk has the reputation of monsters fighters, but can they defeat a dragon?” He stops, waiting for the suggestions of others.
Nurm weights everything that was said carefully. The changing brightness of his crystal being the only visual indication of his emotions.
I agree, we might be accepted in The Grove, but will they also welcome the whole town? And would they defend them? Iraibor seems to be the best of the options, but messengers should be sent to Berdusk too to warn the town. Maybe and alliance may be formed between the two, together their chance of survival would be even better.
Nurm carefully checks the map, suddenly his sight stops at one place.
The holy knights of Elturel are known even in the outer planes. Is there any chance of them joining the defense of Iraibor if it is attacked?
((@Akanos: You were informed of the following: The bits about Berdusk and Iraibor, and Helviraena being called 'the Poisoned Grove' and the bit about assassins and thieves. Yo don't know the part about Petmailer coming from there unless he mentions it himself again. Also, of course, you can now see the map too.))
Eadyan nods to the tiefling. "If you need to ask anything else, I'm right here."
Upon seeing Kane arrive, Leosin fills him in what was being discussed and the map. At Nurm's question, he answers. "I do not know, but if we end up going to Berdusk, I wouldn't be too worried: Even without the Elturiel's help, they have their own group protecting them."He says, smiling to himself.
"Are we all ready to go talk to the Governor then?" He asks.
Eadyan nods. "Nice to meet you as well, along with the rest of your companions. My name is Eadyan Falconmoon, but I guess Harmony must have already told you that. Shame that we all had to meet under these stressful circumstances..."
Hearing the voices, Leosin arrives. "Eadyan, what's all this? Who...?" He asks, as Leyding hides behind the priest's back. It's obvious that while the monk knew of the gnoll's existence, this is the first time he sees her.
"This is Leosin Erlanthar, a friend of mine..." Eadyan explains to the newcomers at the Temple, but mostly to Leyding. "Leosin, this is Leyding. Still harmless, you see?" He explains to the monk with a smile. "Harmony and her companions brought her here... Along with three cultists."
Upon hearing that explanation, Leosin quickly turns his gaze towards Ignar and the two kobolds. As Eadyan explains to him what Petmailer just told him and they move them downstairs, the kobold sorcerer gives a side glance to Nurm and smiles to himself. He still believes him to be an ally to the Cult.
"He is right, you know?" You can hear Eadyan say to the half-orc. "It's not too late for you. There's lots of benevolent goddesses and gods out there for you to follow instead..."
"Spare me the sermon." Ignar grumbles. He sounds very tired.
While they move the captured cultists downstairs to deal with later, Leyding takes the opportunity to say something. "He smells scary, Eadyan's friend." She says. She doesn't sound scared, just very confused. Like she just found something that doesn't makes sense to her. "He smells like the guys with the scary robes."
Both Eadyan and Leosin return after that. "Thank you for bringing those cultists here. We shall give them to Nighthill and Escobert tomorrow morning, they will know what to do with them. Now then..." Leosin says, sitting down. "Please do tell us what happened, and if you don't mind please tell me who you are if you haven't already, I see some new faces here."
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
Before the priests return, Kane kneels down and listens to Leyding. “He smells like..the scary guys.” Kane understands what she means. He nods silently. When the priests return, he introduces himself. “I am Akanos Novak, adventurer and Sage. When we arrived to Milo’s house, we found these kolbolds, Leyding, and a cult priest. The priest got away, leaving the kobolds to fight us. We captured these two, killed the rest, and interrogated the prisoners. We have learned that their is a camp of cultists nearby. Their exact location is still vague but we will find them. After we drop off the prisoners and Leyding, we plan to regroup at the tavern with Mr. Nighthill and look for the camp tomorrow.” Kane then looks at Eadyan, “May I speak with you in private? I have some questions about the temple.” Kane looks at Leosin with suspicion. Insight: 14
To Kane:
You don't see anything suspicious on Leosin, except that he seems very driven to uncover the Cult's plans and have been working on it. Maybe that's what Leyding smelled?
"That sounds like a plan..." Leosin nods, staring back at Kane. He seems as wary of the tiefling as he is of him, but ultimately pays him no mind.
Eadyan is far more trusting. "Of course! I'm always happy to talk about this humble temple to anyone interested on it. Ask away, I shall answer." He assures, his expression brightening. He guides you away from the rest of the group, further down the chapel, where there's a large stained glass despicting a woman in green surrounded by golden grain and red flowers. From here, you can still see the rest of the group, but you can't hear them nor can they hear you.
Feeling tired, Leyding yawns and lays down on a bench, curling up inside the oversized cloak like if it was a blanket. She's not sleeping just yet, as she still seems to be listening or trying to listen the conversation, but she's sleepy.
Rolling his eyes that Eadyan is seemingly going to go talk about his temple and his goddess at a moment like this instead of saving that conversation for later, Leosin focus on the rest of the group. He notices immediately that the dragonborn is missing, but quickly decides against asking about it. He raises an eyebrow when he sees Nurm, like he doesn't know what to make of the strange wizard, but doesn't ask the obvious question directly. "What a ragtag group you all seem to be..." He comments, amused. "But in just a day you all seem to have gotten more information than what I had managed to gather in a week. I must admit, I'm impressed!"
He looks to Nurm, then to Harmony and Gunra, then to Petmailer. He whispers something in Elvish for only the moon elf to hear, then turns to the rest of the party. "Are you all in agreement with Novak's plan, or is it there's something important that has not been said yet? You can save all the little details for when Nighthill asks you about them, I just wants us all to be on the same page here."
To Petmailer:
"The Harpers will be very pleased when they hear about this."
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
Once away from the group, Kane turns to Eadyan, “This is a lovely temple and perhaps we can discuss it some other time. I have a different reason for wanting to talk to you.” He glances over at the group to see if anyone is watching. “While you and Leosin were gone, Leyding made a comment about how he smelled. She said he smelled like a dragon cultist. Now, I’ve known Leyding for a few hours, and I trust her and she trusts me, so I am concerned. How long have you known Leosin? What was he doing before he came here?”
Nurm returns Leosin's look with a stare. The Gith's eyes could pierce a mountain. Seeing the Tiefling did not mention the important bit, Nurm decides to break the silence
Yes, there is something important that is not yet known by you. The cult plans to attack and end this town. Soon! I think you should get everyone to safety while you still have some time. Regarding the prisoners, I have plans with the white kobold, the rest of them should face your justice.
To Kane:
Eadyan's expression is one of confusion. "Leyding said that?" He asks, and shakes his head. "I'm sure she's being honest, but she must have gotten confused. I have known Leosin for some years nows, and he has spent hunting this cult even longer. I probably shouldn't mention this to you, but..." He glances over Leosin to make sure he's not listening before continuing. "He's not tracking down the cult alone, he's working for his organization. He's one of the Harpers."
He says this in a hushed tone, like he's afraid that someone might be listening. "You might not recognize the name, but they are an organization dedicated to do good in the world. Leosin is very loyal to them, and he has nothing to do with the cult except wanting to taken them all down."
To the others:
Leosin listens to Nurm in silence, his face pales as he hears the news but allows the Gith to finish talking first before answering. "That changes everything. We must inform Nighthill of this right now." He declares, and stands up. "But first, what do you plan to do with the white kobold? Is it important? And second of all..."
The monk looks Nurm in the eye. "What are you, exactly? How do I know you can be trusted?"
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
Nurm's visage does not change a bit. Not a single muscle in his face flinches. Only the crystal on his neck starts to dimly shine. Yet his mind is working on a full capacity
My people are known as Githzerai. We dwell in the outer planes, but we rarely visit your world.
Nurm pauses for a tiny bit of a second. Most mortals would not even notice it, yet, for his mind, this tiny break allows him to analyze the priest's questions. Nurm decides that the question regarding his trustworthiness bears no actual value, since the priest would not know, whether Nurm speaks the truth.
To continue with his plan, he would need at least some basic cooperation from the priest. Nurm thus decides to share a bit of his plan with him.
As, for the lizzard, suffice to know is that he may be valuable in our further search. I want to use him as a spy.
Petmailer nods to Leosin and sends him a message :
"All beings should walk free of fear." We should talk soon, we have shared what we have learned, I would ask your assistance.
He then speaks to Leosin and the group, "I agree that we should share this with Nighthill right away. Who knows when they may plan to attack. The half-orc Ignar gave me information to find their camp. If the white kobold can be used as an asset, so be it, all the better. But we must plan a way to deal with these cultists and protect Greenest from attack."
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Gunra frowns as they start talking defenses.
"Well, there's a problem. Do we think they can bring a dragon to bear? If so, we need to prepare for an aerial attack. Ballistae would be ideal. . . But that effort is wasted if they just bring foot soldiers. Would a preemptive strike on their camp be a good idea?"
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Harmony stands back, listening to the conversation pass. She wasn't really present for any of the interrogations, so she doesn't know nearly as much as the others do. She lets them explain while she keeps an eye on Leyding, making sure she's not getting into trouble.
Eventually, she chimes in: "If we're going to this camp anyways, we might as well destroy it. The cultists can't attack if there are no cultists." She stops to think for a moment. That's a pretty vague plan with a lot of room for error, even by her standards. "Do we know how big the camp is? Or when the attack is supposed to happen?"
((Looks like I posted at nearly the same time as Gunra! Edited my post a bit to make a bit more sense with his))
Iris - Tiefling Cleric | Cassandra - Elf Warlock | Solace - Tiefling Monk | Tempest - Hexblood Monk | Lex - Fire Genasi Barbarian
Lilyn - Triton Ranger | Candor - Changeling Bard | Echo - Changeling Warlock/Bard | Rowan - Fairy Wizard
I don't think the town can defend itself against a full scale attack of dragons. Even if we attack the camp, we won't be able to stop any dragons already in the air. You should start evacuation immediately.
Nurm pauses for a while so the others may process his warning.
The lizard mentioned someone called "Langdedrosa Cyanwrath". I don't know the name, yet it makes me unease.
Leosin is obviously not entirely satisfied by Nurm's answer, but he lets it aside. "Outer planes... Someone who had sworn the oath of the Watchers would definetely interrogate you more about that, but I'm not one of them and it is not my problem. If you believe you can get that kobold to spy for you, you are free to do whatever you wish with it."
He gives a nod and a smile to Petmailer, a silent agreement to the message he just sent him. Then he focuses on the current conversation again.
"I don't know how many cultists will be on that camp, but I'm afraid you might be underestimating them." He answers to Harmony, shaking his head. "I'm sure you and your friends are powerful, but the Cult is something else. Back then, before they allied themselves with the Church of Tiamat for this whole mask nonsense, they were obssessed with undead dragons and were making dracoliches, and those dragons weren't the only liches in their ranks. Their knowledge of necromancy is something to fear. And now..."
He sighs. "I doubt they would bother sending their dragons or their dracoliches on such a small town, but I'm with the Githzerai on this one: Evacuating is our best option." He admits, troubled. "Of course, I don't have the power to decide that, we must speak with Nighthill. And I'm afraid evacuating isn't also devoid of potential risks..."
He pulls out a scroll from the bag on his back and shows it to all of you: It's a map of the Sword Coast. "I was working on this. It's not complete, but it should give you an idea of where we are located and what our options are."
"As you can see here, our closest options are two... Well, if you want to get technical, we actually have three options, but I wouldn't even call that third one an option if it were me, and I'm sure Nighthill will agree." He explains. He points to the map.
"If you want my opinion, Berdusk is our best option: Some people call it the Jewel of the Vale. It's a peaceful fishing town, but their people are also famous for standing their ground against monsters. More importantly, I happen to have some contacts there, at their local Temple."
"Then again, Iriabor is also an option." He admits with a shurg. "The City of a Thousand Spires, they call it. It's far bigger and larger than Berdusk, so that might be something to considerate before making a decision."
"As for the third "option"... As I said before, I wouldn't even consider it an option." He grumbles. "But since we are bound to pass very close to it if we travel to Berdusk, might as well mention it now. Do you see that clear patch of land in the Wood of Sharp Teeth?" He asks, pointing to it. "It's sadly devoid of woods for a reason."
He grabs his cartography tools and marks the area with its name.
"Helviraena is its name, but everyone I know knows it by the name of the Poisoned Grove." He explains. "They pride themselves of being a city of druids and bards, but there's also a large number of assassins and thieves in there. I do not trust them." He adresses everyone as he speaks, but he looks at Petmailer in particular as he says it. "I'm sure you all already know the reason why."
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Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
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"As for Langdedrosa Cyanwrath... I'm afraid he's indeed bad news." Leosin states. "I haven't fought against him yet, but rumors says he's a fearsome warrior, a half-dragon of blue dragon heritage. He's not something to be taken lightly."
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
Petmailer’s jaw firms up at the last as Leosin is explaining. He straightens up and says to the group “As you have surmised, I am from Helviraena. While much of what you say is true, it is a generalization and a stereotype to characterize us that way. While there are darker elements and our people struggle with the correct path forward, there are many who hope to make us a better, stronger people and lead us away from dark plans. There are rumors of a Shadow Dragon there in the dark depths, and there are those in high places that may be trying to lead us away from virtue and peace, but there are those of us who stand up to them.” He straightens up then pauses, gauging if he spoke to much, but it is clear that it came from the heart. “I may be able to help us if we travel there, but it is a tough decision, I agree with the need to evacuate, but we need to decide the best plan against these cultists. I would be curious to hear Nighthill’s counsel as well.”
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Gunra eyes Petmailer warily. Darker elements, he says. The image of the masked elf executing a helpless captive rises unbidden to the tortle's mind. That explained a few things.
"If you think the Cult is looking to expand and raid, we probably want to get as far away as possible. We should be prepared to flee to Baldur's Gate - it is the largest city around, right? In which case. . . The Poisoned Grove may be our best option. We stop there, supply, make a plea to the druids. Maybe see if an assassin will take a contract against that Longdeadroses individual. Then we press on to Balder's Gate?"
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Leosin nods. "Of course, it wasn't my intention to sound too harsh." He explains in an apologetic tone. "You must understand, though, and this also goes to anyone here who doesn't know of the place: Ultimately, Helviraena is a Drow settlement, one of the largest ones there is at the surface, and there's as many goblins as there's elves living in there as well. So while there might be many in there who mean good, people aren't going to feel safe around them any time soon."
"Leaving that aside..." He says. "Let's wait for Eadyan and Akanos to finish talking, and I hope it's soon, or we might have to interrupt them. I think we all agree we must go and tell the Governor all about this so that we can start planning."
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
Turning to look at the tortle, he answers. "Yes, Baldur's Gate would be the safest option... But indeed we would have to stop at Helviraena and the sharp woods to get there. It's going to be tough to plan all of this."
"As for the assassin idea..." He says, disapproval clear in his voice. "I'll have to admit I'm not a fan of employing such underhanded methods, but when dealing with the Cult we might have to start looking into options like that if it gets to it."
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
Akanos thinks on what Eadyan says. “Hmmm, no, I haven’t heard of the Harpers. But if you trust him, then I trust him.” He leaves Eadyan and goes to rejoin the others. (I’m assuming someone will fill in Akanos of everything said before.) “I don’t know if we should to the Poisoned Grove, it’s full of thieves and assassins.” He looks at the other options. “Iraibor is bigger and possibly safer, but it could also be a bigger target. Berdusk has the reputation of monsters fighters, but can they defeat a dragon?” He stops, waiting for the suggestions of others.
Nurm weights everything that was said carefully. The changing brightness of his crystal being the only visual indication of his emotions.
I agree, we might be accepted in The Grove, but will they also welcome the whole town? And would they defend them? Iraibor seems to be the best of the options, but messengers should be sent to Berdusk too to warn the town. Maybe and alliance may be formed between the two, together their chance of survival would be even better.
Nurm carefully checks the map, suddenly his sight stops at one place.
The holy knights of Elturel are known even in the outer planes. Is there any chance of them joining the defense of Iraibor if it is attacked?
((@Akanos: You were informed of the following: The bits about Berdusk and Iraibor, and Helviraena being called 'the Poisoned Grove' and the bit about assassins and thieves. Yo don't know the part about Petmailer coming from there unless he mentions it himself again. Also, of course, you can now see the map too.))
Eadyan nods to the tiefling. "If you need to ask anything else, I'm right here."
Upon seeing Kane arrive, Leosin fills him in what was being discussed and the map. At Nurm's question, he answers. "I do not know, but if we end up going to Berdusk, I wouldn't be too worried: Even without the Elturiel's help, they have their own group protecting them." He says, smiling to himself.
"Are we all ready to go talk to the Governor then?" He asks.
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM