Gunra nods his thanks to Escobert as he finally makes it to relative safely. It was nasty out there, but it was looking nasty in here was well. He keeps his mouth shut as his friends make a scene over Leyding. These people were ignorant, scared, and far more numerous than the party. He puts his back to the wall and leans on it while he catches his breath and braces for a potential lynching.
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Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
The people listen to Kane's speech as the cage opens and Harmony steps inside to free her, in tense anticipation for the gnoll to come at them as soon as she's free, so there's this palpable atmosphere of confused relief when Leyding does nothing. Mentha points the crossbow at her when the gnoll moves towards Harmony, but lowers her weapon when all she does is hug her, her body shaking like a leaf as she does so. The Governor, Mentha and Escobert lets her go, and the crowd all fearfully step aside when Harmony picks her up and leaves. "...What did just happen?" You hear someone asks, dumbfounded.
Harmony, when you come back downstairs carrying Leyding, the Swifts are still there. They rush to ask you what was all that noise about, but stop in their tracks when you see what you are holding. They give you space to do whatever you are doing and save the questions for earlier, and Linan talks the kids out of following you.
Even after she has been freed from the muzzle and cleaned up, it takes some minutes for Leyding to stop softly whimpering and actually talk. "I... I sorry. I got scared."
Back upstairs, Mentha shakes her head watching Harmony go with Leyding on her arms. "A wise man once said: 'Trying to talk to a gnoll is the quickest path to its stomach'..." She turns to look at Kane as she makes a warning. "Fine, do whatever you think its right, but if your little friend starts eating my people I'm putting an arrow in her tiny skull."
"Problem solved?" The crowd turns to look at Ignar. "Just checking. Because it looks to me like all this talking about if the gnoll will kill you all or not, you all forgot there is a cult trying to kill you all right now!"
"A cult you belong to! Be quiet!" Mentha answers, angry and tired.
Nighthill takes everyone still near the parapet aside and ask in a hushed voice. "...He's an actual cultist and not another friend of yours, right? When he and the gnoll arrived, the cultists seemed to know him and he seemed way too familiar with them, and the gnoll was covered in blood. We just assumed the worst."
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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
Kane leaves the crowd and goes to see Leyding. He goes over and hugs her. “It’s okay. I’m sorry we didn’t get to you sooner. I’m sorry they hurt you. Take your time, but when you feel ready, can you tell me what happened? Where Eadyan and Leosin are? Why you were with the cultist?” Kane continues to hold her, for he brings to cry as well.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Petmailer steps forward and says "That's a good question, where are Eadyan and Leosin?" Then he moves forward in front of Ignar and says "I captured this man, he surrendered to me and informed us of the cultist attack. This man is how all of you were not taken by surprise and your terrible losses weren't even worse. He is a prisoner, but I think" he turns to look at Ignar and glares at him "that he has turned from his evil ways and abandoned this cult. He may be able to help us even further now. So killing a helpless prisoner who can potentially help us makes no sense." (he looks to Gunra and says "Right?" and gives a short nod). "If we are going to get out of this alive, we need to make a plan right now. Ignar, how far away is the camp and do they have more than one dragon, how many cultists are there? Have we seen the worst or is there more to come? Please help us now, your life depends on it." Petmailer pulls his Morningstar out of his backpack and looks at Ignar. But also, he turns to the crowd and says "I know you are angry about what has happened today. But the only way we make it out of here alive is to use our heads. Please calm down as we form a plan."
Persuasion : 5
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A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Nurm calmly watches the situation without interrupting. When Leyding is taken to safety and the fate of the other prisoner is discussed, he steps into the conversation of his companions. I agree with Gunra. He have told us many things, but I doubt he would do so on his own had we not defeated his party. I know not, whether he just wants to save his life or whether he really changed his heart.
As the crowd digests this new information, Ignar answers. "I don't know if other dragons are planning to appear, but I know this: That blue dragon's name is Lennithon, and if he's here, Cyanwrath is not too far away."
Before anyone can make any questions about that, he continues. "You asked where Eadyan and Leosin are. Well, that's why I've been trying to say since coming here, so listen up!" He speaks louder for the mob to hear. "The priest is still alive, or at least he was when I left. He and his monk friend got ambushed by the horde, so they barricated themselves inside the temple, along with a dozen of other people who couldn't make it here. Ley... The gnoll and me escaped, we were supposed to bring back help." He gives a mirthless laugh. "As you can see, that wasn't the best idea."
"Wait, so you came here from the Temple?" Mentha asks. "That gnoll and you? But..."
"We fought some kobolds and their drake pet coming here, if you are wondering about the blood" Ignar explains. "The gnoll ate that lizard thing. It scared the crap out of the kobolds and they ran."
He looks at the party. "If you plan to go to the camp, your best shot is to infiltrate it. I could guide you there, but if those kobolds already snitched on me then me coming with you will just make you all look more suspicious. As for the priest and the people whom he and his buddy have rescued... I don't know how long that improvised sanctuary of his will last."
"...Well, then why didn't you say so?"
If looks could kill, Mentha would be six feet under from the glare Ignar just gave her.
"...As for how many cultists are here, I don't know." He admits. "Could be dozens of them, or more. Whatever number of them are here, there's twice that number back at the camp."
Downstairs, Leyding trembles and cries, holding onto Kane and Harmony. "We ran, the gray man and I. Fire everywhere. Eadyan stayed, but there is fire. Fire and blood and hunger. I ran."
She shrinks into the cloak Harmony gave her. "Friend... What is a gnoll? I don' know!"
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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
"You're okay, hon. You did the right thing. Nobody's going to hurt you now,"Harmony tells Leyding in a low, comforting voice. She sits next to her, one arm around her shoulders and occasionally stroking her head. She spends a moment considering her next words and how to put this situation in a way she would understand. "Gnoll is a word for people who look like you. Many gnolls are mean, which makes people afraid sometimes. But not all of them are. Some of them are very nice, like you."
“Yes, they were afraid because most gnolls attack and eat people, but not you.” Kane sits on the other side of Leyding and holds her. “You are the sweetest, kindest person I know. And your friends hate it when people hurt you.” He goes through his bag, “I have a few rations left if you are hungry.”
Petmailer walks over to Mentha and says "I can perhaps infiltrate their ranks at the temple, I am from Helviraena and I would wear my Pride Silk uniform and a cultist robe. I would like to have someone with me when we attempt this, we need to scout the situation, but it may be the best chance Leosin and Eadyan have. What do you think?" He turns to his companions - "Who would go with me? Does anyone have a better idea?"
"Also, does anyone have a disguise kit or guidance in how we should do this to help with the ruse?"
"...Helviraena?" Mentha gives a quick look to the crowd, but it is luckily dissolving as the people, seeing as the gnoll is gone for now and the half-orc's apparently on their side, go their separate ways. "It might be wise if you don't speak that outloud. The townsfolk are already wary and scared, don't give them more reasons to want to lynch someone."
"As long as you don't act or say anything too suspicious, you'd blend right in"Ignar says. "The cult is always getting new people, and among the cultists there's mercenaries and people who are only here to get paid. No one will raise an eyebrow if they suddenly see new faces."
"Sounds like a plan" Escobert admits, and glances at the Governor. Before Nighthill can speak, however, someone in the crowd approaches you.
"...You people are going to the Temple?" Markguth, the injured blacksmith Petmailer spoke to briefly before the attack, says. "My sister is not here, there's a chance she's there. Please, is there anyway I can help?"
Somewhat comforted by the explanation, Leyding melts into the touch, cuddling to Harmony when she pulls her closer. "...Eat people?" Her ears drop and she doesn't look you in the eye. "I have something to tell: I had a nightmare last night... There was fire, like now but worse. And a voice... No, not a voice. Laughs. Not happy laughs, a weird laugh, a evil laugh." She shakes her head and points to her fangs. "Can' explain it. It sounded like this."
She makes a cackling laughter, like that of a giant hyena. Linan and Cuth direct a scared look at her direction, and she mutters an apology before continuing. "The laugh told me things. Horrible, horrible things. That I must eat and kill and eat who I kill. Kill, eat, kill..." She shivers and holds you tightly. "The laugh hurts, hunger hurts. I hate it. I hate him. I hate it!"
When offered food, she takes the ration you offer her from your hands and wills herself to eat it slowly, like she's controlling herself out of doing something. Chewing on the dry foods, she visibly relaxes. "...Dtuse gio." She says, speaking a language you don't recognize. Realizing she spoke really weird, she shallows before translating it. "Thank you"
"...Zirca, come back here!" You hear Linan order, and when you turn the little girl is front of you three. Curiosity shines on her eyes as she asks, adressing Leyding. "Can I pet you?"
Not waiting for an answer, she pats Leyding's head. "Zack, Rol, touch this! She's really soft and fluffy!" She giggles. At first fearful that she was going to be hurt again, the gnoll wags her tail at the sudden attention. "Stop, that tickles!" She yelps when Zirca rubs her ears.
"...Zirca, stop. She's not a dog." Roladd intervenes. Zirca pouts and pulls away. "Now apologize."
"Sorry, uh..." Zirca turns to the gnoll. Realizing that she's asking for her name, she answers shyly. "I... Leyding."
"Hi, I-leyding. I'm Zirca!" Behind her little sister's back, Roladd facepalms.
As the three kids start to approach the gnoll, Linan asks you in a whisper. "Is she safe for them to be around like that? Yo know..." She asks, nervous. "If you can promise me that she won't hurt my children, we might be able to watch over her while you two are working."
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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
Harmony backs away from the kids, allowing them space to do their thing, and moves next to Linan. "They'll be fine,"she whispers back with a reassuring smile. "Leyding is a sweetheart, and it might be good for her to have some kids her own age to play with."
Kane looks concerned. “I think I know who was laughing Leyding. His name is Yeenoghu, and he’s a gnoll like you. Only he’s bad. Real bad. And very, very big. He’s kinda like the king of gnolls,” Kane says, trying to make it easier for Leyding to understand. “He wants you to follow him because you are a gnoll and are good, and he doesn’t like that. He lives in a faraway place called the Abyss. I sorry he gave you a nightmare. Once we get out of Greenest, we’ll find some more food for you, okay? Thank you for being strong and staying good.” He hugs her. He lets go and turns to the parents. “She won’t hurt your kids, as long as they treat her like another kid and not a dog. She has it harder than most of us, people think she’s a monster before she does anything. But she is the sweetest person I know.”
Petmailer turns to Markguth and says “Thank you, I would be glad to look for her; what is her name and can you describe her? I was trying to find you earlier, I was wondering if you have any extra arrows, a shield or any healing potions? I was severely wounded by the cultists and I don’t think that I can take time to rest, I want to be as prepared as I can. If there is anything else that you have that could help I would be appreciative.”
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A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Petmailer, Markguth nods at you, obviously getting his hopes up. "Her name is Sara, her hair and eyes are like mine, but she's not as tall as me. Other than that, we're almost twins..." He smiles, as if picturing a fond memory. "I have some arrows and a shield I was working on. It's not my best work, but it's the only one I have right now, I'm afraid..."
He shows you the arrows and the shield. The shield has a representation of what's supposed to be Chauntea's sigil engraved on it, made out of cheap but resilient gemstones. "I was making it to give it to the priest as a gift." Markguth explains. "That elf doesn't like weapons, so I made this for him instead."
Kane, when you explain all that to Leyding, she stays silent, trying to take it all in. She stands up and goes to play with Zirca and her brothers, but not before telling you something. "Not my king" She growls."I have the Great Mother and I have my Dad, and I have you. I need no king."
Linan nods to Harmony and Kane. "Okay, if you trust her I'll have to trust her too. I'll take care of her while you are away, I promise. They seem to like her a lot..." She adds, looking at the kids. "You two should return with the Governor, though. I don't know why the evacuation is taking so long, but whatever the reason it can't be good."
Before she leaves, Kane gives her one final hug. “Of course he’s not your king and he never will be.” He let’s her go play. He looks at Linan, “Okay. I’ll leave her here, although the last time I left her didn’t turn out so well. Please, be kind to her.” He heads up upstairs. “Okay. What’s the plan for evacuation? That dragon could come back at anytime.”
"Ok, if that is the case - I feel that Harmony or Kane would be the proper choice to come with me, as a backup. Here is a cultist robe..." He holds one out. Quickly, he brings Kane, Harmony, Nurm and Gunra up to speed on the plan to infiltrate the cultists and attempt to free Eadyan and Leosin from the temple, and the smith's sister Sara if we see her. "Nurm, since you have the connection with the kobold sorcerer (if he is still alive) I would have thought you would be the correct choice for this mission. But if you can't go with me, Harmony or Kane would probably be best. Does anyone else have any input on this? Please don’t all step forward at once..."
(Petmailer contemplates going ahead with the healing potion, doubts that we can have a short rest in the midst of this attack)
"If its backup what you need, I would be more than glad to come along." Mentha offers, holding up her crossbow.
Ignar smiles mockingly, but says nothing.
"Let me apologize again for not being able to offer anything more. If I had the time and resources, I would able to..." Markguth doesn't finish the sentence, his currently useless arm speaks for itself. "I understand if the shield could ruin the disguise, but sometimes a good protection can mean the difference between life and death."
Waiting on Gunra and Harmony now.
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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
Harmony follows Kane back upstairs, glancing back a final time to make sure the kids will be okay together. For once, she listens carefully as Petmailer describes the plan. "I'll go,"she offers once he's finished speaking. "If we're just trying to trick them and get out of there without a fight, I think I'd be most helpful."She takes the cultist robe and pulls it on.
Gunra nods his thanks to Escobert as he finally makes it to relative safely. It was nasty out there, but it was looking nasty in here was well. He keeps his mouth shut as his friends make a scene over Leyding. These people were ignorant, scared, and far more numerous than the party. He puts his back to the wall and leans on it while he catches his breath and braces for a potential lynching.
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
The people listen to Kane's speech as the cage opens and Harmony steps inside to free her, in tense anticipation for the gnoll to come at them as soon as she's free, so there's this palpable atmosphere of confused relief when Leyding does nothing. Mentha points the crossbow at her when the gnoll moves towards Harmony, but lowers her weapon when all she does is hug her, her body shaking like a leaf as she does so. The Governor, Mentha and Escobert lets her go, and the crowd all fearfully step aside when Harmony picks her up and leaves. "...What did just happen?" You hear someone asks, dumbfounded.
Harmony, when you come back downstairs carrying Leyding, the Swifts are still there. They rush to ask you what was all that noise about, but stop in their tracks when you see what you are holding. They give you space to do whatever you are doing and save the questions for earlier, and Linan talks the kids out of following you.
Even after she has been freed from the muzzle and cleaned up, it takes some minutes for Leyding to stop softly whimpering and actually talk. "I... I sorry. I got scared."
Back upstairs, Mentha shakes her head watching Harmony go with Leyding on her arms. "A wise man once said: 'Trying to talk to a gnoll is the quickest path to its stomach'..." She turns to look at Kane as she makes a warning. "Fine, do whatever you think its right, but if your little friend starts eating my people I'm putting an arrow in her tiny skull."
"Problem solved?" The crowd turns to look at Ignar. "Just checking. Because it looks to me like all this talking about if the gnoll will kill you all or not, you all forgot there is a cult trying to kill you all right now!"
"A cult you belong to! Be quiet!" Mentha answers, angry and tired.
Nighthill takes everyone still near the parapet aside and ask in a hushed voice. "...He's an actual cultist and not another friend of yours, right? When he and the gnoll arrived, the cultists seemed to know him and he seemed way too familiar with them, and the gnoll was covered in blood. We just assumed the worst."
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
Kane leaves the crowd and goes to see Leyding. He goes over and hugs her. “It’s okay. I’m sorry we didn’t get to you sooner. I’m sorry they hurt you. Take your time, but when you feel ready, can you tell me what happened? Where Eadyan and Leosin are? Why you were with the cultist?” Kane continues to hold her, for he brings to cry as well.
Petmailer steps forward and says "That's a good question, where are Eadyan and Leosin?" Then he moves forward in front of Ignar and says "I captured this man, he surrendered to me and informed us of the cultist attack. This man is how all of you were not taken by surprise and your terrible losses weren't even worse. He is a prisoner, but I think" he turns to look at Ignar and glares at him "that he has turned from his evil ways and abandoned this cult. He may be able to help us even further now. So killing a helpless prisoner who can potentially help us makes no sense." (he looks to Gunra and says "Right?" and gives a short nod). "If we are going to get out of this alive, we need to make a plan right now. Ignar, how far away is the camp and do they have more than one dragon, how many cultists are there? Have we seen the worst or is there more to come? Please help us now, your life depends on it." Petmailer pulls his Morningstar out of his backpack and looks at Ignar. But also, he turns to the crowd and says "I know you are angry about what has happened today. But the only way we make it out of here alive is to use our heads. Please calm down as we form a plan."
Persuasion : 5
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Upon being singled out by Petmailer, Gunra sighs and heaves his heavy body off of the wall. A few plodding, heavy steps as he moves up to the elf.
"I do not trust that he has abandoned his faith, but I agree with everything else," he whispers to Petmailer.
He turns back towards the onlookers, covering the elf's back while Petmailer questions the prisoner. He shrugs and follows up the impassioned plea.
"That wretch is no harm to you now. He warned us of this attack. That you were not evacuated in time, well, that guilt lies elsewhere."
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Nurm calmly watches the situation without interrupting. When Leyding is taken to safety and the fate of the other prisoner is discussed, he steps into the conversation of his companions. I agree with Gunra. He have told us many things, but I doubt he would do so on his own had we not defeated his party. I know not, whether he just wants to save his life or whether he really changed his heart.
As the crowd digests this new information, Ignar answers. "I don't know if other dragons are planning to appear, but I know this: That blue dragon's name is Lennithon, and if he's here, Cyanwrath is not too far away."
Before anyone can make any questions about that, he continues. "You asked where Eadyan and Leosin are. Well, that's why I've been trying to say since coming here, so listen up!" He speaks louder for the mob to hear. "The priest is still alive, or at least he was when I left. He and his monk friend got ambushed by the horde, so they barricated themselves inside the temple, along with a dozen of other people who couldn't make it here. Ley... The gnoll and me escaped, we were supposed to bring back help." He gives a mirthless laugh. "As you can see, that wasn't the best idea."
"Wait, so you came here from the Temple?" Mentha asks. "That gnoll and you? But..."
"We fought some kobolds and their drake pet coming here, if you are wondering about the blood" Ignar explains. "The gnoll ate that lizard thing. It scared the crap out of the kobolds and they ran."
He looks at the party. "If you plan to go to the camp, your best shot is to infiltrate it. I could guide you there, but if those kobolds already snitched on me then me coming with you will just make you all look more suspicious. As for the priest and the people whom he and his buddy have rescued... I don't know how long that improvised sanctuary of his will last."
"...Well, then why didn't you say so?"
If looks could kill, Mentha would be six feet under from the glare Ignar just gave her.
"...As for how many cultists are here, I don't know." He admits. "Could be dozens of them, or more. Whatever number of them are here, there's twice that number back at the camp."
Downstairs, Leyding trembles and cries, holding onto Kane and Harmony. "We ran, the gray man and I. Fire everywhere. Eadyan stayed, but there is fire. Fire and blood and hunger. I ran."
She shrinks into the cloak Harmony gave her. "Friend... What is a gnoll? I don' know!"
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
"You're okay, hon. You did the right thing. Nobody's going to hurt you now," Harmony tells Leyding in a low, comforting voice. She sits next to her, one arm around her shoulders and occasionally stroking her head. She spends a moment considering her next words and how to put this situation in a way she would understand. "Gnoll is a word for people who look like you. Many gnolls are mean, which makes people afraid sometimes. But not all of them are. Some of them are very nice, like you."
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
“Yes, they were afraid because most gnolls attack and eat people, but not you.” Kane sits on the other side of Leyding and holds her. “You are the sweetest, kindest person I know. And your friends hate it when people hurt you.” He goes through his bag, “I have a few rations left if you are hungry.”
Petmailer walks over to Mentha and says "I can perhaps infiltrate their ranks at the temple, I am from Helviraena and I would wear my Pride Silk uniform and a cultist robe. I would like to have someone with me when we attempt this, we need to scout the situation, but it may be the best chance Leosin and Eadyan have. What do you think?" He turns to his companions - "Who would go with me? Does anyone have a better idea?"
"Also, does anyone have a disguise kit or guidance in how we should do this to help with the ruse?"
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
"...Helviraena?" Mentha gives a quick look to the crowd, but it is luckily dissolving as the people, seeing as the gnoll is gone for now and the half-orc's apparently on their side, go their separate ways. "It might be wise if you don't speak that outloud. The townsfolk are already wary and scared, don't give them more reasons to want to lynch someone."
"As long as you don't act or say anything too suspicious, you'd blend right in" Ignar says. "The cult is always getting new people, and among the cultists there's mercenaries and people who are only here to get paid. No one will raise an eyebrow if they suddenly see new faces."
"Sounds like a plan" Escobert admits, and glances at the Governor. Before Nighthill can speak, however, someone in the crowd approaches you.
"...You people are going to the Temple?" Markguth, the injured blacksmith Petmailer spoke to briefly before the attack, says. "My sister is not here, there's a chance she's there. Please, is there anyway I can help?"
Somewhat comforted by the explanation, Leyding melts into the touch, cuddling to Harmony when she pulls her closer. "...Eat people?" Her ears drop and she doesn't look you in the eye. "I have something to tell: I had a nightmare last night... There was fire, like now but worse. And a voice... No, not a voice. Laughs. Not happy laughs, a weird laugh, a evil laugh." She shakes her head and points to her fangs. "Can' explain it. It sounded like this."
She makes a cackling laughter, like that of a giant hyena. Linan and Cuth direct a scared look at her direction, and she mutters an apology before continuing. "The laugh told me things. Horrible, horrible things. That I must eat and kill and eat who I kill. Kill, eat, kill..." She shivers and holds you tightly. "The laugh hurts, hunger hurts. I hate it. I hate him. I hate it!"
When offered food, she takes the ration you offer her from your hands and wills herself to eat it slowly, like she's controlling herself out of doing something. Chewing on the dry foods, she visibly relaxes. "...Dtuse gio." She says, speaking a language you don't recognize. Realizing she spoke really weird, she shallows before translating it. "Thank you"
"...Zirca, come back here!" You hear Linan order, and when you turn the little girl is front of you three. Curiosity shines on her eyes as she asks, adressing Leyding. "Can I pet you?"
Not waiting for an answer, she pats Leyding's head. "Zack, Rol, touch this! She's really soft and fluffy!" She giggles. At first fearful that she was going to be hurt again, the gnoll wags her tail at the sudden attention. "Stop, that tickles!" She yelps when Zirca rubs her ears.
"...Zirca, stop. She's not a dog." Roladd intervenes. Zirca pouts and pulls away. "Now apologize."
"Sorry, uh..." Zirca turns to the gnoll. Realizing that she's asking for her name, she answers shyly. "I... Leyding."
"Hi, I-leyding. I'm Zirca!" Behind her little sister's back, Roladd facepalms.
As the three kids start to approach the gnoll, Linan asks you in a whisper. "Is she safe for them to be around like that? Yo know..." She asks, nervous. "If you can promise me that she won't hurt my children, we might be able to watch over her while you two are working."
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
Harmony backs away from the kids, allowing them space to do their thing, and moves next to Linan. "They'll be fine," she whispers back with a reassuring smile. "Leyding is a sweetheart, and it might be good for her to have some kids her own age to play with."
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
Kane looks concerned. “I think I know who was laughing Leyding. His name is Yeenoghu, and he’s a gnoll like you. Only he’s bad. Real bad. And very, very big. He’s kinda like the king of gnolls,” Kane says, trying to make it easier for Leyding to understand. “He wants you to follow him because you are a gnoll and are good, and he doesn’t like that. He lives in a faraway place called the Abyss. I sorry he gave you a nightmare. Once we get out of Greenest, we’ll find some more food for you, okay? Thank you for being strong and staying good.” He hugs her. He lets go and turns to the parents. “She won’t hurt your kids, as long as they treat her like another kid and not a dog. She has it harder than most of us, people think she’s a monster before she does anything. But she is the sweetest person I know.”
Petmailer turns to Markguth and says “Thank you, I would be glad to look for her; what is her name and can you describe her? I was trying to find you earlier, I was wondering if you have any extra arrows, a shield or any healing potions? I was severely wounded by the cultists and I don’t think that I can take time to rest, I want to be as prepared as I can. If there is anything else that you have that could help I would be appreciative.”
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Petmailer, Markguth nods at you, obviously getting his hopes up. "Her name is Sara, her hair and eyes are like mine, but she's not as tall as me. Other than that, we're almost twins..." He smiles, as if picturing a fond memory. "I have some arrows and a shield I was working on. It's not my best work, but it's the only one I have right now, I'm afraid..."
He shows you the arrows and the shield. The shield has a representation of what's supposed to be Chauntea's sigil engraved on it, made out of cheap but resilient gemstones. "I was making it to give it to the priest as a gift." Markguth explains. "That elf doesn't like weapons, so I made this for him instead."
Kane, when you explain all that to Leyding, she stays silent, trying to take it all in. She stands up and goes to play with Zirca and her brothers, but not before telling you something. "Not my king" She growls."I have the Great Mother and I have my Dad, and I have you. I need no king."
Linan nods to Harmony and Kane. "Okay, if you trust her I'll have to trust her too. I'll take care of her while you are away, I promise. They seem to like her a lot..." She adds, looking at the kids. "You two should return with the Governor, though. I don't know why the evacuation is taking so long, but whatever the reason it can't be good."
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 she leaves, Kane gives her one final hug. “Of course he’s not your king and he never will be.” He let’s her go play. He looks at Linan, “Okay. I’ll leave her here, although the last time I left her didn’t turn out so well. Please, be kind to her.” He heads up upstairs. “Okay. What’s the plan for evacuation? That dragon could come back at anytime.”
I would join you Kane, but my mind is too chaotic right now, I would not be much help on my own.
((I am out of spell slots))
"Ok, if that is the case - I feel that Harmony or Kane would be the proper choice to come with me, as a backup. Here is a cultist robe..." He holds one out. Quickly, he brings Kane, Harmony, Nurm and Gunra up to speed on the plan to infiltrate the cultists and attempt to free Eadyan and Leosin from the temple, and the smith's sister Sara if we see her. "Nurm, since you have the connection with the kobold sorcerer (if he is still alive) I would have thought you would be the correct choice for this mission. But if you can't go with me, Harmony or Kane would probably be best. Does anyone else have any input on this? Please don’t all step forward at once..."
(Petmailer contemplates going ahead with the healing potion, doubts that we can have a short rest in the midst of this attack)
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
"If its backup what you need, I would be more than glad to come along." Mentha offers, holding up her crossbow.
Ignar smiles mockingly, but says nothing.
"Let me apologize again for not being able to offer anything more. If I had the time and resources, I would able to..." Markguth doesn't finish the sentence, his currently useless arm speaks for itself. "I understand if the shield could ruin the disguise, but sometimes a good protection can mean the difference between life and death."
Waiting on Gunra and Harmony now.
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
Harmony follows Kane back upstairs, glancing back a final time to make sure the kids will be okay together. For once, she listens carefully as Petmailer describes the plan. "I'll go," she offers once he's finished speaking. "If we're just trying to trick them and get out of there without a fight, I think I'd be most helpful." She takes the cultist robe and pulls it on.
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