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Post by Aileen on Apr 8, 2019 13:34:52 GMT -5
"Your drink, sir." The pretty waitress blushes as she hands me my cocktail.
"Thank you." I hand her a silver piece, and her face falls a bit when I go back to staring at the water.
When she disappears back inside, I lay back down, stretching my legs out and enjoying the sun warming my skin. My bare feet are still sandy from walking along the beach, and the scar stands out against my fresh tan.
"I'll take my arrow back now."
Joe... my dear friend. You should be here.
Orlane seems so long ago and far away now, but the memories still haunt me. I am a shell of what I used to be before the temple. I'm reminded every morning when I drag myself out of bed of how weak I am now. Every time I try to lift anything I am overcome with exhaustion. I should be out with the crew as they search for the lizard folk lair, but they bid me stay here with the walking wounded.
My best friend Joe would love it here, but he is dead now. Every night those of us left behind have bonfires on the beach with people from Saltmarsh, or hang out in the bars. It's a beautiful town, and I hope it stays this way. I have Laragorn with me at least... he tries to be understanding, but I think my weakness has become a burden to him. He spends most of his time at the house trying to make it look better. I only go there to sleep, it's just too creepy still.
I worry about Aevlin being off again, especially after all the time I spent searching for her. She is young and impetuous, and i fear she will slip up... but then again she is a prodigy with that bow, and she has Nylen to guide her. If there's anyone i trust her looking up to, it's the elf.
She also has Joe's twin with her. Jaris is very much like Aevlin, and the two of them spent a lot of time together while here. The two young drunkards probably don't realize the implications of what they did the night before they left, maybe they thought it was totally innocent. In Jaris giving Aevlin the ring, they were effectively betrothed. I'm not completely okay with my little cousin marrying a thief, but maybe they will realize it was all a mistake. Or maybe marriage will smarten her up. If hes anything like Joe, it will be okay. I feel for poor Hans however, the priest always had a thing for Aevlin and now shes gone and made more life mistakes.
Me and the boys have been trying our best to continue running Aevlin's Deadible Edibles, but the prices of fruit here are outrageous. It is evident that we have run into a problem... Aevlins poor bookkeeping has reared its ugly head. If we dont start selling more bouquets or raking in more money then the business is going to fail. And Aev is going to have several very angry employees to deal with, including me.
I finish the martini and turn to the chair beside me where Rick is fast asleep, slowly getting sunburnt. I'll let him rest and deal with the consequences later, he deserves it after sorting through all the sales records with me and Laragorn. I get up and leave the deck, walking down towards the beach. The sand is hot on my feet, and the water looks more than inviting.
>>-----> Gregolas <-----<<
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Post by Aileen on Apr 10, 2019 13:21:10 GMT -5
Dear Mum and Dad,
It's me, Aevlin. Obviously. I know I haven't seen you in over a year, and I should have written sooner, but things have been crazy.
I joined a group of adventurers back in Darkshelf to investigate the mine. We got caught by troglodytes and kept as slaves. I thought I was going to die in the slave pits, but somehow we revolted and escaped. I killed some bug bears and troglodytes, you would have been so proud! I may have killed a few guards but that was an honest mistake. It did help out Edible Dedibles a bit, I sent out several baskets.
When we finished up there we went to Hochoch. There was an awesome festival and I had funnel cake. Then they asked us to go to Orlane and investigate vampires. I was all ready to fight vampires and wore garlic down my shirt for a full week.
Orlane was weird. Everyone kept inside and would run at our presence. I drove my horse Stompy straight to the inn. You would like Stompy, he's a palomino and extremely cute. Does dad still have that mean horse Roger? I miss him. And the dogs. Anyway... I may have messed up while there. I was so excited to be in another new place and the bartender was really nice... i tried to try everything. The Orlane Special sounded too good to pass up, I know you guys love your craft beers and wines. I had to try it. Turns out the inn was run by a cult. They drugged me, and my friends left me behind to "sleep off the alcohol".
Jose tried to protect me, and her pet Shlizzard too. Clappy was very fond of me. I should probably have mentioned her sooner, you're probably wondering what in Kord's name a Shlizzard is. Apparently they're actually Mud Tigers. They look like a shark and a lizard. Clappy was a very sweet Shlizzard that Jose found in the mine back in Darkshelf.
So anyway. We got taken by the Cult of the Reptile God. They marched us off to some dungeon under a swamp and we were brought before their "god". It was a Naga... a scary snake lady thing. She tried to charm us. Only Clappy fell for it. Me and Jose were thrown in cells and kept there for days. Long story short and to spare you the gruesome details, and mostly because I don't want to relive it, Hans and Gregolas and a bunch of other adventurers came to our rescue. Unfortunately Jose didn't make it out. And a brave dwarf held off a wight so I could escape. I'm only alive because of them.
Theres an old hermit guy named Ramne that lives there and probably the most responsible for saving me. I hope some day I can go back and visit him, but he would probably pretend to not be home. I'm going to keep sending him Deadibles though.
We are in Saltmarsh now. It's a really nice place, and the fishing here is on point. We just got back from investigating a lizardmen lair. We killed many of them before we found out they are not the real threat... they're actually really nice and helped our friend Oceanus who lost his leg to frog people. I feel really awful about it. I definitely shot an unarmed guy. And accidentally hurt a kid while trying to get him to spit up a key. I'm not proud of this adventure.
Oh, and we have a house now. We cleared a smuggling ring out of a supposedly haunted house, and now we own it. It's a mess. But it's a home. There is too much to fit in one letter, so I'll get to the point.
I may have accidentally gotten engaged the other night. We were celebrating and it was brew fest, and I may have overdone it on the drinks... I think my friend Jaris proposed to me while drunk. I dont know if it's okay to back out of that... but my friend Ceyleen is so excited to perform the ceremony, and Gregolas and Laragorn already started wedding planning... now we are going to look like fools if we don't go through with it. I am delaying as long as I can.
Can you please come to Saltmarsh? I know it's a long way, and you will have to book passage by ship. But I want you both here. I'm your last unmarried child, and you were there for both of their weddings, so you need to be there for mine. I didn't want this, but now it's too late. Jaris thinks he is going to get killed before it ever happens, and I hope he doesn't. He's a fighter you see. They frequently get killed from traps. But even if it gets called off, at least you can see our awesome house and me and Gregolas!
I have to go fight fish people now. They have sharks. Please be careful if you go on the ocean if you come here, I don't want you to get eaten. Also please bring my accounting records, Gregolas keeps getting after me about them. And I may need to borrow money. Thanks!
With love,
Your favorite daughter Aevlin <3
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Post by Aileen on Apr 19, 2019 16:39:42 GMT -5
Our lizardfolk representatives we brought back with us were actually really nice, and I now feel horrible about killing so many. I left the treasure behind at least. The people of Saltmarsh are surprisingly accepting of them joining their forces to fight the Sahuagin.
The lizardfolk want to receive wergild for us killing their people. They are tapped for forces and us slaughtering them didn't really help things. 40/50 party seemed like a great idea the other day, now I just feel like a terrible person for my impressive kill count. Their solution is to send us to kill a giant crocodile that has been killing their patrols. They are unable to hunt it as crocodiles are sacred to them, so we have to do it for them. Easy enough.
As we leave the council chambers, my hair still wet from trying to blow the stupid horn in a water trough, Ceyleen pulls me aside.
"Aevlin, I have a plan. Come with me!"
"I was really hoping to get a drink-"
"This is way more important!"
And thus I found myself in a meadow, holding up a cup of mead, trying to catch bees. Something flew into the cup and landed on the surface.
"Got one!" I yell.
Ceyleen rushes over, sloshing her own glass, and peers in.
"Yes! A friend! We must follow it to its nest!"
"Hive."
"I'm the expert, Aevlin."
"Right. Nest. Lead the way."
I hand Ceyleen the cup and the bee, and follow her unwillingly into the woods. This is not what I signed up for when I became an adventurer, but I've got to trust my druid friend if she thinks this plan is going to work.
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It's a half day march to where the lizardmen claimed to see the crocodile, and it's a quite pleasant walk. I walk far in front of Ceyleen, not wanting to be stung by the bees that are following her. We come to a large pool of water at a junction of some rivers, and it looks like a good place to start looking for the croc. Naturally, I pull out my fishing rod and bait it up with two sausage links, then cast the line into the water.
"Could I have a couple of those sausages?" Elmarth asks.
He takes them, removes his cloak, and starts gathering brush in a pile. He then stuffs the sausages inside and covers it with his cloak, creating a semi-human lump next to the pool.
"That should draw it out!" He says, standing back with hands on his hips to survey his handiwork.
I look as I feel my line catch. The surface of the water erupts in a splash as a massive crocodile leaps up out of the water, snapping my fishing line. It begins to rush me, it's short legs propelling it forward at an alarming rate.
"AEVLIN!" Jaris screams, and I see one of his arrows fly into the water, just missing the croc.
I drop my fishing rod, panic stricken, and reach for my sword. As the massive jaws begin to open, coming to kill me in one bite, I see my life flash before my eyes. I cringe, waiting for death.
It doesn't come.
I look to the crocodile, and it is frozen in place- entangled thanks to Ceyleen! I owe her my life. I rush in with the others, and we make quick work of it. A few bees fly out of its nostril and buzz happily back to the swamp elf.
We barely get a chance to talk before a roaring wind picks up, and I look up to see a massive, long shape moving through the air towards us.
"The f*** is that!?" I scream, going for my bow.
"Dragon!" Jaris yells, pushing me out of the way.
It flies over the water, and the once placid surface turns into walls of flames. Jaris takes a shot at it. I miss with my own shot, but its fine- Ceyleen once again saves the day by entangling the great beast! Everyone rushes in, splashing around in the water as we hack the dragon to death.
We are all in accord that we just killed two massive things way too easily, and a little concerned about what else could possibly be out here. A short walk in the direction it came from brings us to a corpse of trees that we assume is where this thing or the crocodile camped out. We find money and a scimitar, which Ceyleen takes and discovers is magical. I find a green potion that looks a bit suspicious, but after a sip I find myself feeling really good... turns out it's a potion of super heroism, two doses worth. Me and Krork plan on using it for a big battle down the road, although we were tempted to take it and have a slap fight right then and there for fun.
Back at the town everyone is in an uproar, terrified that the Sahaugin are going to kill them all. It's true they lack the military strength to withstand an attack. We bring proof that we killed the crocodile and the dragon, and weirdly enough nobody seems to care about the dragon... interesting. The town hires us to go with some marines and lizardfolk soldiers on a strike mission to the lair where the Sahaugin have taken over. We agree to go, and are given use of a ship.
Hans commands the Saltmarsh marine forces, and takes to the officer role quite well. The ship sets out to sea, and I watch as the town of Saltmarsh becomes a small island in the distance. Ceyleen comes to me, and drags me to the main mast where Jaris, Gregolas and Captain Red Lambert stand.
"Jaris. Aevlin. I believe the time has come. I have prepared the ceremony, and we may be sailing to our deaths, so it's now or never."
"What is?" I ask nervously.
"Your wedding!"
"WHAT?!" Gregolas is livid. "No, this isn't what I planned! I don't even have bouquets!"
"Ye want to get married on my ship?" The Captain says. "Very well. I'll have the crew ready the deck."
I feel like everyone is making decisions that should be mine to make, but Ceyleen is probably right. Theres a good chance one of us could die, and maybe if we go through with the wedding then at least we can inherit each others belongings... I dont even know the first thing about what I'm doing, but it's too late!
"Okay." I say. "I have nothing to wear."
Jaris and I go off to gather an impromptu wedding party. Gregolas immediately raids the galley, and Ceyleen helps me make a veil out of fishing line, sail cloth and sea shells we found belowdecks. After an hour of makeshift preparations, we are as ready as we possibly can be. I'm just sad that my parents are not here... if they even get my letter I sent, they are going to come to Saltmarsh and find out that we are dead, or they will kill me once they find out what I've done.
Most girls dream of marrying in a beautiful white dress surrounded by flowers and their family and friends. I find myself walking across the main deck of a ship, in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by lizardfolk, my party members and poor excuses for soldiers. Not what I was expecting, but I am an adventurer after all.
"Mawwiage!" Shouts Ceyleen above the loud wind and water. "Its what brings us... together... today."
"Why are you talking like that?" Jaris hisses to the swamp elf.
"Shut it," she whispers. "LOVE. True love!"
I'm starting to regret this. Do I truly love Jaris? I think I do... he's always looking out for me and he does care. Worst case scenario, one of us dies... right? Suddenly the boat slows to a stop as something thuds against the side. Jaris's eyes leave mine, and widen in alarm. I turn and see giant tentacles waving on the side of the ship.
"Oh... s***!"
Jaris takes his bow from Will Stoutly, his best man. I toss my fruit bouquet to the side, and Elmarth tosses me my trusty bow.
"This isn't over!" Ceyleen shouts, jumping into action with her new scimitar. "You're interrupting my wedding!"
I shoot at a tentacle and completely miss. They start attacking everyone on board, grabbing and pinning those they can catch. I watch in terror as Ceyleen is grabbed and pinned.
"I've got you!" Jaris yells, drawing his bow.
Jaris sends an arrow at the tentacle, but instead it hits Ceyleen in the shoulder. The swamp druid looks pissed, both at the interruption and the new unwanted arrow accessory.
"Well... sorry our wedding is ruined." Jaris says.
"Are you kidding?" I pull my own arrow back. "This is the best wedding ever."
My arrow hits true, and the tentacle let's go of Ceyleen before disappearing over the side of the boat. Hans sends his men into battle, and they try their hardest. It's clear the men from Saltmarsh are not tested warriors, and Private Brown is an absolute moron.
Private Nate Fisher is dragged over the edge by a tentacle, and we all watch in horror as a giant octopus beak emerges from the water, biting him in half. Jaris tries to shoot it, but trips and stuns himself. I guess this wedding is going as wrong as it possibly could. At least it's one to remember.
Finally we drive off the octopi with minimal losses on our side. Hans starts healing up his men and lizard folk, and we all regroup. Jaris gets to his feet after a bit and shakes himself off.
"Still want to go through with this?" He asks me.
"Ceyleen would never hear the end of it if we didn't."
Jaris smiles, taking my arm in his. We head back to the makeshift altar, where Ceyleen regroups the wedding party.
"Right, no more interruptions!" She announces. "Dearly beloved! We gather here today..."
>>-----> Aevlin <-----<<
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Post by dragonforgotten on Apr 23, 2019 21:37:35 GMT -5
Geez what a exghusting day. I cant even get my head straight. Ive already dropped Oceanius and i'm honesty getting tired. I ask him questions and all i get is sass. I open locks and all i get is more whining. How the heck was i suppose to know the chest had poisonous gas!? The tiny dragon and Cayleen are looking at me with funny and i don't like it, after the death of the poor charmed lizardman and the near death of Semore squakman. Past that room and a quick fight we found the motherload of food and then the kitchen. In the crates we find a large batch of sugar and salt. Avelin consulted my expertise to see if it was drug but sadly it isn't, unless she's want to get high off salts but thats never a good idea. The dwarf wasted some time waiting for lizardwomen to finish cooking only to then grab a leg from the cooking meat the moment they turned there backs. I catch Avelin eyeing the jewelry around their necks and i cant help but wonder if Ive rubbed off on her in some way. I want it to but now isn't the time to be pilfering when theres so many eyes and bodies are hard to hide. “Aevlin, no.” I warns her. “What? I wasn't going to do anything.” She whines. “I saw you looking at the jewels, we are not going to kill them or take anything.” I tell her glancing at the jewels, those are really nice. The colors would match her eyes... “If we are going to work, then we need to come to an agreement.” “What are you talking about?” My eyes widen as I realized i just acknowledge our engagement. S***! Do something! Say something! What the heck does she even mean!? “You know.” I mutter, my eyes shift to her hand to the symbol of our unsaid promise that neither of us can barely remember. “No, I don't!” Flustered, She walk away as i reach out for her but she's gone before i can stop her. S***! I f*** up! It just slipped! I said something very stupid before I even realized it! Whats the hells wrong with me?! I feel like I've just been shanked in the heart, the emotions I locked up are bleeding freely. Did she mean what she said? Did what i did mean nothing? Is that why she ran off like that? Is our engagement a farse. Why do i even care? Ive been telling myself over and over that it was a mistake, that it will blow over. Its not like Im in love right?... Right? I clutch at my heart as i seat down Oceanius. Im so confused. If I'm not in love why does it hurt so much? It's not like she loves me back right? Thats why she ran off, because she doesn't like me and i just made s*** awkward. Why the f*** was I even talking to her like were together? We haven't even dated!! We're not a couple! Its just my f*** up emotions looking for comfort in this unforgiving world. I don't fool around. I cringe as I feel the painful twinges in my chest and i cant help but sigh frustrated. Im so distracted I didn't hear Oceanius when I once again dropped him onto the unforgiving floor. "Sorry." I apologize picking him up again. I try to quiet my emotions as we move on. I stuff the pain and unwanted emotions deep down and place on a stony mask as we march on. She keeps trying to catch my eye but i force them forward. No distractions. We find a throne room of sorts as I place Oceanius against the wall. there are lizardmen children playing here. After stopping Ricardo from killing them I spend time distracting them and play little games with them as the party investigates. There so adorable if you look past the lizard... they cant be too old. Maybe their like 3 or 4? I wonder, if were together what our-.. NO! Stop that you sentimental fool! The party seem to find a key and give it to the kid making the grabby hands. We then watch horrified as he swollows it whole! Even panicks. Avelin nearly kills him with a hymlecks, leaving me to mother the poor kid as our clerics fix him. I question her mothering skills. Eventually we find a way forward but are caught by lizardmen who speak common. An odd peace is struck with the lizardman as word of something even bigger looms on the horizon. Apparently Lizardmen are better neighbors than these shark people. I don't so much care so much about the alliance but as long as it keeps the town standing I'll go with it. Oceanius left the moment he was free of us. Not even a thank you for keeping his a*** alive. Shame. I guess I'll be keeping my share of the gold now. Ill need it for the future ----
Back in the swamp we go. Turns out we are going after a renegade gator in their patrol route, ate a lot of them but religious tenants restrict the lizardmen from killing their pest. I could use a new pair of boots. As we walk she runs up to my side but I continue my fast pace as she struggles to keep up. "Hi." "Hi." I say, curt. She looks at the ground not looking into my eyes. "Umm, I wanted to ask if you were ok. You've been weird since the lizardmen." "How so." I ask, cold. "Like that." she demands, her gaze softens as she nervously wrings her bow. "Listen, I just don't know anything right now. Im just a girl with awesome bow skills and bad business practice. This type of stuff is new and I'm confused. Im confused on what WE are now, to each other." My heart starts bleeding again and the stony exterior i built up starts crumbling. Before i notice my pace has slowed down and she can easily catch up to me now. "I... don't know anymore. I really don't know..." I whisper, feeling lost and exposed now that she's cracked my shell. Her brows crinkle. "Lets just slow down then. We maybe moving too fast." I shutter feeling like a weight has been lifted off me. We? I look at her. "Ya, maybe we are. Id like that." She smiles patting my shoulder. "You have my back right?" A ghost of a smile slides onto my face. "Always." We stepped up to its last seen position to see but no gator "I have an idea!" Aevlin then pull out a fishing rod and sausages and it clicks. I give her the thumbs up. Go for it! She casts her line and we wait. I hope she catches it soon because my arms are getting-. The beast lunged straight out of the water toward her! Holy f*****! "Avelinn!" I shoot but miss but just as the gator was about to bit my future wife in two roots and vines shoot up and restrain the beast! "Go get em boys!" cayleen shouts. with pleasure. We charge in and i start hacking into the helpless reptaile with vengeance along with everyone else. "DONT. Ever. Touch. Her." out of breath the croc is dead. Instantly I join Avelinn and wrap her up in a hug. "Oh f*** me that was close! Are you ok?" "Fine! Not even a scratch." pheww thank the stars. "Umm, you can let go now." "OH, sorry!" I immediately release her and we jump apart. I brush myself off, looking for a distraction. I notice out of corner of my eye the stabbing wizard looks kind of glum. ask him whats wrongs. Suddenly it dawns on me i'm holding her hand. I let go, missing her warmth.... When did that happen?! "Im useless here. Everything is too damp for my fire spells and i don't want to burn anyone in the process." said Elmore "Nonsense! You'r one of the most important person there is. you'll get your chance-. Wait. Whats that?" Its starts out small, it looks like a twisting flying snake. Then it gets closer, then bigger. Are those horns...? Oh, no... "Dragon!" I push Avelinn behind me as the beast lands on the water and its bursts into flames! Oh F*****! Ive heard stories of dragons, my ancestory slew three of the evil colors. At least if the fire hits me first maybe it wont hurt Avelinn. I pull the arrow back ready to shot when the wizard step forward with determination set in his face and his finger spread out as a jet of fire pours out from his digits. Instantly all the flames extinguish. Including the ones around the dragon. the dragon is instantly wrapped in weeds. "Ready for round two!" -----
With the dragon dead i take great joy in collecting trophys. I oh so badly want to take the head. I want to mount it over the fire place but theres no cart and i don't have strong legs. this trip was very profitable. Two hides and a hoard of dragon treasure. Sadly, this wasn't the right dragon. Jala's swords still remain very much missing. I wonder if the legends were really true. The troupe always told me these swords originate from a broken world called mystara. The blades are a mystery. I almost forgot that i was sent out here to find them in the first place. I guess getting engaged does that to you. How the heck am I going to explain this to the troupe. At least theres time. We don't have to be serious for a long while. Maybe she'll even find someone better than me. I walk besides her eyeing her hand. I catch her looking at me and pretend to look be staring at a tree. I feel a pull to grasp her hand again but i keep myself in check. When did i become the touchy feely type? Suddenly it feels like i'm walking way to close to her so I start picking up my pace so i walk in front of her instead, blushing as the after image of her eyes burn into my mind, i can feel my ears get hot. No matter what i do i cant escape. Why now does her being so near me starts the fluttering of my heart? I look around the swamp hoping for no more snakes or crocs, trying to find a distraction. Suddenly i feel someone grasp my hands and i look besides me to see Aevlin. I don't fight her, My fingers curl around her dainty hand as we fall to the back of the line unnoticed. My anxiety begins to quell as we walk together, my fears quieting. If just for a moment i give in to this contentment despite what it looks like. Despite knowing it's wrong. I cant get this comfortable, I'm not meant to get this close to anyone let alone someone as strong as her. I shouldn't, but i just want to be close to her. Ive never felt like this around anyone else. She leans into me as we walk, head resting against my shoulder as mine falls on top her head, the distance closing between us. The warmth between us keeps the cold grim of the swamp at bay as my heart frantic fluttering quiets to a rhythmic pulse. I don't want to part when we reach town but we are both not confident in ourselves. Despite being engaged we worry about what other people would think. We've barley been together and it's such a drastic change for us. We are debriefed by the town. The finial assault on the Sharkmen will be gathering information. Thats going to be hard on this group. Were not known for our stealthy approach. We set sail for the finial assault on the fortress. It was decided among us that going by sea is a better path considering the trail by land hasn't been scouted. The ship sets out to sea.I took a swing of some rum with the saliors, just admiring the scenery, feeling the wind in my hair as i leaned against the mass of the crowsnest. Its a beautiful day out and i just want to climb up into the crownest and take a nap. I spy Gregolas nearby speaking to the captain Lambert about something. Suddenly theres a commotion as Ceyleen walks towards us, dragging Aevlin. "Jaris. Aevlin. I believe the time has come. I have prepared the ceremony, and we may be sailing to our deaths, so it's now or never." "What is?" Aevlin asks nervously. "Time for what?" I'm confused. What is she getting on about? "Your wedding!" "WHAT?!" Me, Aevlin and Greg shout at once! Gregolas is livid. I didn't think he could get this red. Me and Aevlin are looking at each other in shock. This cant be happening right now! "No, this isn't what I planned! I don't even have bouquets!" His complaints fall on deaf ears. the captain agrees full heartedly, even asking his men to help prepare. Im frozen in shock, my mind haven completely checked out. We just got engaged! This isn't how its suppose to go! We need more time! You cant just jump into a marriage after one bloody week! Its unheard of! I glance at Aevlin who seems to be processing this sudden news as well as i am. We meet eyes, blushing heavily and at the same time, the both of us instantly turning away squirming with all eyes on us. My heart pounding in my chest, but theres this light excitement in me as well and it's confusing. "Okay." Aevlin says. "I have nothing to wear." "I can fix that!" with that Ceyleen sweeps my bride to be away as i stutter a mess on the deck. The captain startles me awake as he claps me on the shoulder. "Well son, time to get ye all fixed up for yee special day. A man only finds that one lass once don't ya know." oh gods this is really happening. The captain takes me into his quarters and begins prepping me, showing off his lavish wardrobe going on and on about the joys of romance, his lovely wife back at home and here I am panicking. Wondering if Aevlin is going through a similar experience.
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NOT five minutes later I'm dressed in the nicest set of cloths i've ever worn. Hair slicked back, rows of gruff sailors. Oh C****! I'm not ready! Is it too late to jump ship? I think i can still make it to shore. just as the idea slithers its way into my head i see her. She's dressed in an array of sails and fish netting tailored into a make shift wedding dress. Same as how the captain let me borrow his heavy red tail coat. I see the fear and nervousness in her eyes just as much they are in mine. Are we making a mistake? Is it a mistake? Why did I never try to stop this before it got this far. She looks so scared and confused. Avelinn takes her spot by my side with Cayleen between us. She starts the vows. She looks into my eyes after i made fun of cayleen, trying to make us feel better. My heart swells. I haven't taken the engagement seriously until now. I only did what was natural. When i saw Hans kiss the back of her hand i felt a hot coil of pain watching but i didn't admit it was jealous. She's not an object that i can have.. Im racked in both heart ache and guilt. Ive been running away from this. I didn't want to admit it but Hans forced me to. I- I think I-. Suddenly the ship shakes, jolting me out of my day dream. 12 massive tentacles have risen up from the bowels of the sea. I was full of s**** when i mentioned there being a Kraken in the sea. I didn't mean to be right! The boat is shaking too much and i honestly panic when i see the tentacle grab Cayleen. "Ill save you!" I shoot but hit Cayleen. Opps. "I didn't mean that!" "Of course you did!" Im getting a splitting headache over stress. I feel someone against my back and i see Aevlin with her bow taunt. "Well... sorry our wedding is ruined." I say. "Are you kidding?" she pulls an arrow back. "This is the best wedding ever. We're in this together!" She fires and kills the tentacle holding Cayleen. Time slows down, I can only see her. I don't know what this feeling is but it makes me happy. She is so fierce, so beautiful and she is going to be my wife. Elation floods my soul and blooms in my chest. I feel like the happiest man in greyhawk I admit it! I'll bloody admit it!.. I love her! I f***ing love her! A tentacle tries to swipe at Hans but as i pull my bow back the boat groans and shift and I slip off my feet. "THwak!" Pain explodes in my head as i skid across the deck. The fighting ends just as I regain my barrings. Aevlin standing over me in her dress, the sun behind her back.. She's so beautiful. "Still want to go through with this?" I asks adverting my gaze. If it's a no, it ends. if its a yes... "Ceyleen would never hear the end of it if we didn't." I look up surprised to be greeted by her smile. It wasn't a no..she didn't say no..! A smile grows on my lips as i wiping the tears out of my eyes, taking her arm as she helps me up. We head back to the makeshift altar, where Ceyleen regroups the wedding party. After settling her vows the moment arrives. "I pronounce you husband and wife. Now kiss." I sweep her off her feet, staring into her eyes as she caresses my cheek. I kiss her in front of the gathering and i finally feel like a piece of me has been healed from the years of greif and sorrow.
Jaris the Red Baron
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Post by Aileen on Apr 28, 2019 14:56:31 GMT -5
The battle won, bodies buried at sea and injured taken care of, we finally finished the ceremony. I stood hand in hand with Jaris, looking into his half-elven eyes, listening to Ceyleen speaking nonsense about the parrots and the bees and 'till death do ye part.
"Do you, Jaris, take Aevlin to be your druidically wedded wife?"
"I do."
"And do you, Aevlin, take Jaris to be your husband?"
"Sure. I mean, I do." Well, screwed that one up.
"If anyone objects to this union, speak now or forever hold your peace..."
Nobody objects. No tentacles attack either.
"Then with the power invested in me by the forces of nature, and the bees, I pronounce you man and wife. Now kiss."
I never expected my first kiss to be at my wedding. Nor on a boat. Especially not at a wedding on a boat heading towards the lair of fish people with lizardmen standing in as my bridesmaids. It was weird, but nice.
Jaris took my hand and led me to the galley down below where our impromptu wedding feast was beginning. Gregolas had slaved over cutting up whatever fruit he could find, and Wahruck had something frying in the kitchen. There was wine and ale the captain brought out, but we were advised to go easy on it lest another attack occur. Ceyleen let me have half a glass, and that was it.
"Alright, here's calamari!" Wahruck announced, bringing in a platter of fried tentacles. "I'll be in my cabin."
The priest left, not one to socialize with us. The calamari was amazing, and well earned. The lizardmen were apprehensive about trying it, but seemed to approve after a taste test. I think Wahruck's plan of making the house a temple and pizzeria is going to work out great. A couple crewmembers brought out instruments so we could dance, but nobody really wanted to join Ceyleen and Patrick Sprayzee on the deck. Jaris and I escaped to spend some alone time organizing our arrows and sharpening swords.
The crew sailed the ship throughout the night, making a slow course as to get to the lair at daybreak. As the lizardfolk told us, the Sahaugin did not like daylight, so getting to the shore at first light is our best bet.
In the morning, those of us in the landing party got on the jolly boat and went to shore. The lizardfolk helped us through the marsh, pointing out sinkholes that could have sucked us down into the muck, and navigating the treacherous terrain. The mist burned off as the sun rose higher, and by the time we got to the causeway it was lifted.
Hans ordered the marines to stay in the reeds on the sides of the causeway so we had a force protecting our retreat, while he took several of the lizardmen with us. The lizardmen pointed out that the causeway didn't lead to what it used to... in fact, the entire lair seems to have sunk into the marsh. What was once an upper level is now ground level, and the causeway leads to it. There is no natural occurence that could do such a thing.
"Be safe. I love you." Jaris says to me as he retreats to the back.
"I'll be fine." I'm at the front with Nylen, ready to shoot. Its Jaris that needs to stay safe.
We go down the causeway single file, coming in view of a large set of smooth stone doors with a metal plate on one. This is also a new development, as the lizardfolk did not have that kind of door technology.
We get up to the landing and Nylen uses his magic sword to scan inside the door as the rest of us hide. He tells us there are five spearmen not paying attention to the door. A cause for concern is the round thing on one side with a pole underneath it- looks like a gong.
My husband checks the door for traps, and there are none, but Nylen says its barred on the other side so theres no way Jaris can unlock it. I suggest we knock on the door and run away as I did back at the house, but Ceyleen has an even better idea. Nylen and I take position at the other side of the door, me with my bow at the ready to infiltrate the place. Ceyleen goes to the door and knocks. The metal plate slides open.
"Hello, new friend!"
She casts charm person, a foolproof plan! The Sahaugin hisses and the window slides shut.
"They're forming up!" Nylen says. "Someone needs to get this door open!"
Theres too much debating, arguing who is strongest. No time for that. I back up, and kick as hard as I can at the door. To my surprise, it busts open with a crack as the bar breaks.
"That's my wife!" Jaris boasts.
We can't see any of the Sahaugin but assume they have lined up on either side of the door. Nylen signals me to go to the far side of the room, telling me to try to take out anyone that goes for the gong. Wahruck opens the other door, and we all rush in. I get to the grate at the far end, and immediately regret my position. Five Sahaugin appear, aiming crossbows at me.
"Oh, s***!" I yell, running to the side. They all shoot, and I hear bolts whooshing past me. One buries itself in my calf, but there's no time to care about that. I turn, using the corner as cover, and start shooting the Sahaugin through the grate.
Hans and Wahruck both cast hold person and many of the fishmen are held in place. This couldnt possibly go better! I'm distracted as Jaris yells in pain, and see him jump back from one of the lizardmen that accidentally hit him. He is smack dab in the middle, and I can tell by his face that he doesn't trust in the lizardmen not to mess up again. I go to shoot another Sahaugin and slip, nearly falling over and throwing my shot. I can't keep getting distracted, focus Aevlin!
One of my five ran off, and I made quick work of the ones who were held. Like shooting fish in a barrel! Literally. Jaris runs to my side, trying to shoot my targets. The one that ran off comes back around the corner and shoots him.
"Jaris, no! I've got this!"
"I'm not leaving you by yourself!"
Ceyleen comes up on my other side. I roll my eyes.
"I have this under control!" I shoot and kill the one that shot my husband.
Ceyleen stabs the last one. Jaris pulls the bolt out of his shoulder and casts it aside.
"Let me help you with this at least," he says, reaching down and grabbing my leg. I nearly kick him as he rips the bolt out of my calf, but it feels better once its out.
We observe the room before pressing on. It's extremely clean, eerily clean. This does not look like a lair. The corners are perfect, the stone floor polished and smooth... these Sahaugin are clearly more advanced then we originally thought.
"This looks good. Really good." I say. "We need to hire them to work on our house!"
"No. They will kill us. That's what they do, they take over." Jaris tells me.
"But this stonework!"
Elmarth comes up to us and has a weird look on his face as if listening for something, but we all hear nothing.
"Hey guys, I hear hammering... it's a ways away."
So they are actively working on this place... either we are going to kill them, or hire them. Ceyleen and I want to try opening the portcullis, which turns out to be polished bronze. I try, but I'm unable to bend the bars. Embarrassing. There is no way Ceyleen can do it, but she tries. In a burst of brute strength, she plies the bars open enough for a person to go through.
"How?!" I gape at her.
Ceyleen moves to go through, and a net falls down on her. The swamp druid flails in the net, and the more she moves the worse it gets. There are hooks on it, latching onto her armour. Jaris and I struggle to remove it, but after a bit we finally get her free. I'm just glad it didn't happen while under attack.
We all go through the portcullis, and Wahruck pulls on the chain to raise it up. If we need to retreat, we want our way open. We come to a room with polished green floors and walls, and I'm even more impressed with the craftsmanship. What are these Sahaugin doing?! The room has a table with a hammer and chisel on it, so there is probably a worker around. There is a stone coffer that is open and empty. Someone definitely made a hasty retreat.
Most of the Sahaugin are probably sleeping, as it is daylight outside and this place is way too empty. I just hope we can fight our way through and make it back to town with no issues, and maybe some treasure. I want to have a proper honeymoon, killing Sahaugin is fun and a but I deserve good drinks and relaxation! Let's just hope Saltmarsh is still standing when we return.
>>----> Aevlin of Nyrond and the Concatenated Cantons of Perrenland <----<<
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Post by Aileen on May 7, 2019 9:51:53 GMT -5
"Hello!" Came a booming voice, and we were beholden to a friendly looking dwarf. "I heard you may have wine?"
I step forward, greeting the newcomer.
"I'm sorry, we left it all on the ship."
"Ah, that's disappointing indeed. My name is Gardrod. I am new to the adventuring life and came across your men in the bracken."
The crew makes introductions, telling of their specialties and heroic deeds. Ceyleen makes sure Patrick Sprayzee approves of the dwarf, and he does.
"Um... I make fruit baskets for a living. And I drink. That's about it."
I used to be "the archer" but Nylen apparently is better than me according to Ceyleen. So I'm just me.
"Oh, like those edible arrangements people keep getting for their family being murdered?"
"You've heard of us?!"
"Aye! I heard their owner is a drunk that disappeared. They're not doing well. You work for them?"
I have to look away, ashamed.
"Its a job."
We explore more of the place, but it's just more polished stone and coffers. Coffers everywhere we look, even when I close my eyes. I will forever be haunted by coffers. Finally we run into some Sahaugin, and it looks like a Male and female... they're very disheveled. They look like they might be newlyweds, too! Nylen and I shoot at them, but I just can't do this anymore and I miss. I don't know what's wrong with me.
"Stay close to me, Aevlin." Jaris says. The swordsmen of our crew and Hans's army rush in, leaving me in the dark.
They make quick work of the Sahaugin, and then we get together to loot the bodies. They have fancy armbands, which Jaris and I take as wedding gifts. Our crew certainly didn't give us anything. Ceyleen picks up a cylindrical rod that one of them had, and waves it around. Nothing happens. She then tosses it up in the air and then catches it. She spazzes for a few seconds, and then stows it safely in its sheath.
"That buzzed a little!" She hands it to the dwarf. "Here, take the cattle prod!"
What were these Sahaugin doing? Well, we know what they were doing. But all this weird stuff we find on them makes me question so much. Jaris seems super uncomfortable.
The room we go into is an armory, clearly. Tridents, javelins, daggers in coffers, nets with hooks. Hans gives the lizardfolk free rein of the weapons, and they gear up. Like, taking everything they possibly can. I grab a net before they're all gone. Another room has ropes, animal skins, lots of leather straps. Jaris, blushing, reports no secret doors and drags me out of there.
We go back to the entrance and Ceyleen calls the rest of Hans's army in. They are a bit confused by her as we never sorted out what sort of signal to use for them, but eventually they all stream in. They are brought to the armory, where they also gear up. After that we move on, checking the other side of this level. More stonework, more coffers. Eventually we find mosaics depicting the Sahaugin triumphing over all the races. They really do think highly of themselves, but they are not going to get out of here alive.
Finally we run into more Sahaugin! I shoot a couple times, only hitting once. What is wrong with you, Aevlin? I think the married life is making me scatter brained, I keep throwing shots! Hans casts hold person and the remaining moving one falls over, i assume 'Ricardo' did that. I put the one we left alive in my net, and hand it off to the lizardmen to bring back to the armory, our new staging area. Unfortunately, more Sahaugin come up from behind.
"I do not like that!" Yells Hans, who got speared from behind. They both die quickly, thanks to our lizardmen army. Nylen scouts ahead, blast his elven vision.
We raise the gate in the room up using the pulleys, but Hans thinks he lifted it with brute strength. The next room is long with four pillars and a shallow trough cut into the floor. It looks like a sanitary facility, but it surprisingly doesnt smell terrible. In the corner, in a heap, lies an elderly man. In rush over to him, and check if he is alive. He is, but barely. I take his hand as Jaris kneels next to him, asking his story and trying to help him.
He was the leader of an adventuring party sent from the Hold of the Sea Princes. All of his friends were killed, and he became a slave to the Sahaugin. They had underwater adventuring equipment, but that was taken away. Jaris tries to help heal him, but he says he is dying and we can't help him.
"Do you have any family?" I ask.
"You just want to make money off him!" Ceyleen whispers in my ear.
"Shh!"
"I have no family," the old man says.
He tells us that there was some kind of earthquake when he was working on level two. The level below us. They used him up and then left him here to die. Krork offers to bring him outside so he can get out of this place and breathe fresh air again, but the moment he picks the man up he starts groaning in immense pain and screams to be put back down.
"Remember... Metamorph!" He gasps. "Remember... Metamorph!"
He dies. Was Metamorph his name? Jaris shuts his eyelids. I fall to my knees, looking up at ceiling.
"Metamorphhh!" I yell.
"Metamorph!!!!" Ceyleen and Jaris join in.
When nothing happens, we get up and pretend we didn't just yell out a random name/word dramatically. It did feel like we honored our new dead friend though. Was that even his name?
Moving ahead we hear the deafening sound of hammers on stone. It actually hurts my ears, and I'm sure the elf types are even more sensitive to it. Nylen looks ahead with the sword and can see many figures in the room ahead. If we all put our swords away, we can sneak up on the guards. Unfortunately, some of us, mainly Hans and I, will be blind. Jaris takes my hand as the lights go out.
"I'm here." He says.
The dark is the one thing I fear. When my mind plays tricks on me. When I remember the terror. I feel my palm sweating in Jaris's hand.
"Jaris, get up here." Nylen orders.
"I'm sorry, I have to go." Jaris lifts my hand, and I feel his lips brush it in a kiss. "I'll be back."
"Don't leave me!" I whisper. He is already gone.
I can hear and smell the lizardfolk around me, and I know Hans is close. This all smells too familiar... wet, dank stone. I can almost feel the chains on my wrists again. The whips licking my skin...
Live a good life.
I'm trying, Jose. I'm trying!
I need a drink. I'm suffocating!
I can hear my heart pounding in my ears. The suffocating darkness closing in.
Light!
I can breathe again, I just need to get to the light!
I stumble past the lizardfolk, shaking hands still gripping my bow. Ceyleen and Krork have their swords out, but the chamber is also lit. I catch my breath, taking it all in. Many Sahaugin lie dead, arrows buried in them. Orc and lizardfolk slaves stand chained, while Jaris flits between them unlocking and freeing them. Nylen killed every single guard.
I feel pathetic. What use am I? I never got a chance to even get in here. I couldn't see. I'm not good enough.
The lizardfolk and orcs do not want to fight for us. They just want to get out, and I sympathize completely. Although when I found my freedom, I still fought. Maybe I am different? We also find out that the old guy was named Elmo.
"Wait, do you know Metamorph?" I ask. Everyone shrugs, shaking their heads. They clearly never remembered Metamorph. Poor guy.
"We're going to go to the swamp now!" The freed slaves are saying.
"It is a marsh, not a swamp!" Ceyleen corrects them as they leave.
Jaris joins me after finishing freeing the slaves, taking my face in his hands. He can tell I'm down, although I try to hide it.
"Aevlin, you're still amazing."
"No. I'm not."
I have to walk away. Seeing all the dead makes me sick.
We explore some more, and Elmarth finds a secret door. We open it onto a room with what looks to be the gear the old man's party had lost. Jaris goes to check a coffer and a scything blade hits Jaris. He hisses, hand bleeding, but opens the coffer. I instinctively go to him and wrap his bloody hand up in my cloak. I think this married life is making me soft, and I keep worrying about him more than I used to. This is why he keeps putting himself in danger for me!
There's bone tubes which i assume have scrolls, and books with varnish on them to make them waterproof, and a velvet bag in the chest. In the room there's chainmail, platemail, a sword, shields, potions and a cool leather cloak. I ask to have the chainmail, but upon closer look it is dwarf sized. Dammit all.
I swap out my old shield for a new one as apparently all this stuff is magic, and take the sword. I watch in horror as Elmarth starts waving a wand he found around.
"Metamorph!" He calls. A beam of green strikes one of the lizardmen, Terry. Terry turns briefly fishlike, and then back to a lizardmen.
Jaris puts the cloak on and sticks his head under the water in the stairwell. The good sucks in around his face, and he looks like a manta ray.
Nylen takes a ring and then puts his head in the water after Jaris. He immediately starts coughing. Hans takes another ring.
"Jaris, there's two left. We don't have proper wedding rings yet!"
Jaris picks the two up, and hands me one. I put it on his finger. He spaces out for a moment, staring at it as if it's the most precious thing in the world. Then he looks up to me, gives me a kiss, and slides the other ring on my finger.
"Aevlin?"
I pull away from Jaris, going to the water. Sticking my head in, I try to breath. My nose and mouth fill with water and I come up sputtering and coughing.
"Aevlin, you're invisible!?" Jaris can't seem to pick out where I am standing. "Draw your sword!"
I pull out the new blade, and wave it around.
"Why is there a sword moving around on its own?!" Ceyleen gasps.
"It's me!" I reply, sheathing it.
We test it out, trying to move in the water, and it doesn't help me swim any better. However, Hans tells me he can see the outline of my body displacing the water. This will help me better on land then the water, but its still really awesome. I am going to mess with so many people!
We seem to have enough gear and potions and spells to head into the abyss that is the water. I am terrified, but we came here for information, and information we will get.
>>-----> Aevlin, Edible Arranger <----<<
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Post by dragonforgotten on May 7, 2019 16:17:22 GMT -5
-1 hour before wedding-
"I cant do it. Im going to jump ship." I say dressed in this monkey suit called formal attire scrapped together by lizardmen and salors. I try to walk past Walruk, Nyleen and Hans but they easily grab my by the pits and place me on the bed locking the door. "You cant just walk out on your wedding!" says Nayleen "Its too late sunny jim. The ship has already set sail." said Walruk. I bet he was waiting for that. "You guys don't get it! I'll ruin her life! Im f**** cursed you hear me! I'll die just as she begins to love me. She's better off finding someone else like you Hans-." Suddenly Hans place his hands on my shoulder giving me the eye, shutting me up. "You wants this don't you? Im not talking about anyones else. "yes but." "No buts. You'r a thief, you steal for a living. Don't think about whats right or wrong. Forget everything and ask yourself what do you want. Now i'm going to ask again. Do you want this. I think back to her one the ship and vaguely the night that started this. "yes." "Do you love her?" "......." "..........Yes."
-------------------- It was such a beautiful wedding. I honestly didn't think i would live long enough to get married. Not quiet what i thought but it was glorious. There was good sea food, good company. Lizardmen were great, sailors too, Cayleen did an amazing job. I still have my hand over my mouth think back to the moment of the kiss that made our union official. How i swept her off her feet in the heat of the moment and everyone cheering. Ive never been that swave! Holy c**** i'm a married man now.. What would everyone back home think. probably exactly like Cayleen. Avelinn will have to meet Granny. Its custom that when we get married we, bring our wives home, the head of the troupe blesses the union, we celebrate, then-. Holy c***! Its not over! We didn't complete the Union of Shadows! Once we go back we'll have to complete it to officially be recognized by the Caravvan. We'll have a second wedding. Oh my god. I'll need to tell her. Our moment keeps repeating over and over again in my head. So now i find myself sitting at the table nursing a growing headache with a glass of red wine. Im getting a little worried. It's been at least a day and the migraine hasn't stopped. Its getting late and the moons reflection is beautiful against the ocean waves Suddenly someone grabs my hand giggling and gives me a kiss on the check. Its Avelinn and now i don't even feel the headache because my blushing now. "follow me, i need your help sharpening some swords." she winks. I don't get it, the weapons are fine.... oh. and i'm being dragged along into her room. ---------------
Im standing in a desert of black sand. i'm dressed in the traditional garb of my troupe that was stripped from me when i first started my journey with my brother, only a dagger and backpack. i see it in the distances. A brightly colored tent of oranges and purple, a clamour of laughter inside. just as i stand outside the tent someone gabs my hand! I whip around behind me to see myself? No. Joe? "Im so proud of you bro. You finally said yes." I cant speak but I'm crying, what? How? "I miss you." i mutter. He pulls me into a wordless huge, He doesn't need to say a word. We pull away and hes has that smirk on his face. "Granny has a gift for you." I turn around to see a woman, larger then life standing in front of me adorn with many jewels, finary and leather armor. two swords strapped to her hips. A dangerous smirk on her lips. "You have come so far you lucky b*******. I think it's time we awaken the fire trapped inside you. Consider it my wedding gift." Suddenly she pulls out a crescent dagger and she buries it between my eyes! "Go back to your wife now grandson, my Red Baron.
I gasp, awake! For a moment i'm confused, disorientated. My body is sore and my head is killing me. My limbs tingle like they also fell asleep and are beginning to wake up. It takes a few minutes before i am able to move my limbs again. What was that? i ask myself, the vision fresh in my mind and the pain all too real. Im awakened from my haze when i feel someone besides me move. Avelinn mumbles, nuzzling into my collar, her arm on my chest. "so cold." it dawns on me. Oh s****. Did i just, Die? I look down on her in this dark cozy room. I hug her tighter and she smiles in her sleep. This incident. It's happened before. When i was a child strange things would happen to me and around me. The first incident was when I was sparing with Joe. It was harmless, he had been pushing me to go on the attack but when i did i lost my balance and fell. When he helped me up it surprised us both that I had gained an inch in height. Didn't last long but we laughed it off and kept it a secret. The next incident wasnt so funny. the second incident happened when i was 13. We were at a bar with the older members of the troupe and some guy said something about our halfblooded nature. Called us knife eared mutts. Joe talked me down form slugging the a*****e in the glass jaw so i sat and stewed in rage and self hate. Suddenly the ale the prick was holding exploded in his hand and the glass cut up his face while the boiling liquid scorched his face. he screamed in pain but i was too wrapped up in my hatred. Joe had to shake me out of it and by the time i noticed I created far too much damage. We were never allowed back in that bar. It got serious when i turned 15. I was exploring the city with Joe when i suddenly got light headed. I woke up back at the tent surrounded by the family ready to set me ablaze. Apparently i got very sick and i fell into a death like state for nearly a week. They given up hope and where readying the pyre. the only reason they did'nt burn me on the spot was thanks to Joes crying, begging, and him spilling every werid instances. This drew the line. I was brought to Granny and with the aid of a cleric they gave me an exliar to kill whatever possessed me. It worked, or so i thought. What if my death illness is coming back. I give Avelinn a small kiss on the forehead. Im not dying again. ----------
I worry for Avelinn. Ever since she's gotten off the ship she's been kicking her self about the littlest things and trying to protect me. I don't want her believing that i need protecting. We found a dying man but sadly he was far gone, leaving only a strange word that might have been his name. He didn't exactly give us enough time. We face barely any trouble. I hold onto her hand tightly as we creep down the stairs. Unfortunately i have to leave and back Nayleen. I don't want to leave her in the dark but I must free the slaves. To my amazement Nayleen has killed them all before i can even blink. Wow. Thats terrifying. I free them but the slaves would rather run and i don't blame them. We hit the mother load as we stumble upon a room filled with magic items, the items of fallen adventures. I got this amazing cloak that seems to turn me into a fish, we found the metamorph wand and then Avelinn finds a pair of magic rings. "These can be our official wedding rings." I don't argue, it's a sweet offer and everyone seems fine with it. She slides the ring on my finger and the stray through enters my mind. "I don't want to die and leave her alone." Suddenly i feel the ring warm up, changes its design to a Phoenix before cooling, filling me with energy. It then sinks in what i actually have as I pull her into a hug. I will not die.
-Jaris the Red baron
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Post by Stephen on May 8, 2019 12:23:18 GMT -5
Hans Gunter Heinrich, Curate of Kord, pummeler of bugbears, basher of goblins, wound healer and first of his name has not felt this tired in a long time. Not in 100 years did he ever think adventuring would take him as far as it has. These past few weeks have been exhausting. But nothing...nothing could have prepared him for the massive shark that nearly killed him, Avelin and Jaris while exploring the underwater lair of the Sahugin.
After nearly destroying the lizard folk lair the lizard folk begged for a parley with group. The Sahugin, evil fish like humanoids that ride sharks drove the lizard folk out of their original lair. The Lizard folk moved into their current one, which set the town of Salt Marsh on edge. Salt Marsh hired us to wipe them out. It appears that we were wrong in assuming the lizard folk were preparing to attack the town. Taking a lizard rep back to Salt Marsh and after hours of talks it was determined that the Sahugin indeed wish to take over the salt marsh, driving or killing all of the goodly races out of the area. The lizard folk asked us to kill a giant crocodile that has been rampaging and killing their scouts along a suspected Sahugin route as a way to make amends since we nearly wiped them out. As Crocs are revered by the lizard folk they will not engage it. After gathering supplies we set out.
Making our way through the marsh is tough, especially wearing heavy plate mail armor. Battered and dented this armor has saved Hans' hide more than once. The air is thick with misty humidity and sweat begins to drip down Hans's back soaking his tunic. Sweat runs down his face and into his eyes. He removes his fancy antlered helm and wipes his brow. Pausing to drink from his water skin he is thankful for the quick break. Pushing on with his friends Hans feels good about this mission. Needlessly slaying lizard folk put Hans in a sad state. Violence isn’t always the answer, moving forward Hans will attempt a more diplomatic solution when dealing with other reasonably intelligent life.
The tall reeds open up a bit and a large pool of water is before us. Based on the information from the Lizard Folk this area is where the croc resides. The party talk amongst themselves and Avelin decides to fish for the croc. Her plan worked. Really well. And she nearly died when the croc rushed out of the water and bit her. The croc is massive! Its thick leather hide scarred from fights with other predators of the marsh. Suddenly, vines spring out of the ground and begin to wrap around the monstrously sized beast. Hans is momentarily districted by the sound of...bees? Hans recognized the vines as being magically manipulated. Glancing over at Ceyleen, Hans sees her casting a spell. Clever swamp druid using the very earth to hold this beast. Arrows are shot and weapons swing as the party charges in to strike the monster. Although it tries, the croc cannot break free of the vines (is that more bee's?)and the group of hardy adventures quickly kill the croc. Avelin was the only one to get hurt. Asking for Kords support, Hans heals her wounds.
Clapping each other on the back the party turns to follow their steps back through the marsh when suddenly a roar splits the air! Flying toward us is a long serpentine dragon type creature wreathed in fire! Where in Hells did that thing come from? We form up and prepare for its attack. The air gets even warmer and the fire surrounding the dragon heats up the water of the pool which adds a misty effect to its charge. Hans is taken back for a split second by the beauty of it. The dragon gets closer still and Elmoth, the Heart Stabber, holds his hands out and casts a spell. A cone of fire hits the dragon and in a flash the dragons fire wreath is gone. It roars in anger and turns its head to Elmoth. Once again Hans is distracted by the sound of bees and out of the ground more vines appear. They snake around the dragon pulling it down. It's body half in half out of the water, we all charge in and make short work of the serpentine creature.
Congratulating ourselves once again, we turn and make our way back to town. Reporting in we tell of our fight with the croc and the dragon. The council is impressed. Very impressed. In our absence the council has decided to further aid in stopping the vile Sahugin. They agree to send a small strike force to recon the old lizard folk lair. Happy, the lizard folk lend the council 12 warriors and two officers. 6 marines are assigned by the council and all agree that Hans should be their leader. Honored and humbled Hans hopes he performs his duties well in the eyes of Kord, the council, and his friends.
Boarding the ship and making way along the shore is a pleasant trip. While helping to decorate for the wedding of Avelin and Jarris the ship is attacked by large octopods! Alas one of the marines, Private Nate Fisher was grabbed by a tentacle and bitten in half by one of the octopi. It was gruesome and Hans took his death hard. Blaming himself for it. Hiding his feelings he says a few words at the rail of the ship honoring Private Nate Fishers sacrifice.
The ship anchors off shore a bit and the lizard warriors and marines join the party on a beach. After landing ashore the ship weighs anchor and sails back toward salt marsh out of view of the tower of the lizard folk. The lizard warriors guide us through the marsh safely, with their aid we avoid quick sand , sink holes and Kord knows what else.
The lizard folk tower is at the end of a long cuaseway. We decided to leave the Marines on the shore to cover us and take half the lizard folk with. The party makes their way to the tower, breaks a door in and kills the towers defenses. The rear guard moves up under Hans' orders and covers the entrance. The lizard folk are concerned as it appears that the tower is being re-built and has apparntly sink down two levels. Lovely.
Fighting our way through the tower the party finds a secret room full of goodies. A shiney new suit of plate mail being the one thing that catches Hans' eye. As he takes off his old armor and puts the new one on, Hans' notices that the armor appears to weigh nothing more then a set of clothes. Hans feels lighter on his feet, and is extremely pleased. He will have to take some time to adorn the armor with symbols of Kord. His old armor he hands of to one of the groups on again off again fighters. Telling him, "Don't mind the Kord Juice" the fighter grimaces but seems pleased with the upgrade. Another Item Hans receives is a plain ring.
The room close to the treasure hoard has a staircase leading down, Ceyleen claimed to have smelled it long before she saw it. It is filled with water. Lovely. Taking a few minutes and experimenting, Hans finds that his fancy antlered helmet of "Styx" creates an air bubble around his head allowing him to breath under water. The ring, now known as a Ring of Free Movement will let Hans move in the water as if walking on land and will allow full use of his morning star underwater.
The party decides to recon a bit, sipping potions of water breathing and accompiend by 6 lizard warriors, most of them begin to explore the underwater tunnels. Just a few minutes in they come across two of the Sahugin and slay them. Roughly an hour later the water breathing potions begin to fade and all but Hans, Avelin, Manta Ray Jaris and two lizard warriors remain as the others swim to the safety of air. They push on a bit more but decide to turn back and join up with the rest of the group. Out of nowhere....a gigantic shark, 20 feet long swims up to and attacks the party. This thing is the most terrifying thing Hans has ever seen. It attacks with a fury and cold precision as it easily overcomes the lizard warriors. The area gets tainted red with their blood and it drives the shark into a frenzy swallowing Manta Ray Jaris whole. Avelina and Hans are in shock and glance at each other. Suddenly this fight got very real, very scary and very deadly very quickly. Avelins attacks but her dagger barely scratches its thick skin. The shark lunges toward her and nearly ripps her arm off. Avelin screams in pain and passes out floating away a bit. Hans and the shark stare at each other for a moment. Again the shark lunges but Hans moves to the side and hits the shark with his morning star. Hans can feel the crunch of bone as the shark reels back from the strike. The shark lunges again and with terrifying speed bite down on Hans' mid section. The pain is intense. The armor glowed for a second and on top of the weightlessness of it the armor offers much greater protection then Hans has ever had on him, but, even the enchantment of the armor is not enough to keep the shark from biting down hard and cracking several ribs. Hans tries to hit it again but pain and fear cloud his mind, he hits the shark.....but didn’t do any real damage to it. Hans thought the shark opened its mouth into a wide smile, daring him to try again. Suddenly the shark stiffens up as if being hit from something inside. Jaris! He must still be alive and with any luck attacking the shark from the inside. With renewed energy and faith Hans moves into attack. The shark moves faster, avoids the morning star and bites down on Hans shield and the arm holding it. Its razor sharp teeth find the elbow joint and push through nearly tearing Hans arm off. More blood obscures the water. Pain. More Pain than Hans has ever felt rips through his arm. His chest and back feel as though they are on fire and his breaking ribs grate toegether. Hans' chest is tight and it is hard for him to breath. Punctured lung. Outstanding. Is this how it ends? Eaten by a massive shark in a cold dark underwater tunnel of the Sahagin? Tears well up in Hans' eyes as thoughts of fear, panic and failure worm their way through his mind. Have I not been devote enough? Have I squandered the gifts Kord has bestowed upon me? Taking a deep breath and grimacing from the pain of broken ribs Hans holds his morning star high, his shield arm hanging useless at his side, pushes off the floor and glides into attack the shark! The shark stiffens again and thrashes it heads to the left, Jaris must have hurt it. As the shark moves its head to the right, Hans swings his morning star in a downward strike and connects squarely with its head. Hans' voice thunders underwater with a roar for Kord and is rewarded with caving the head of the shark in. On the verge of passing out from blood loss and pain, Manta Ray Jaris crawls out of the sharks mouth. Hans quickly heals Avelin. She wakes up and is petrified with terror. Seeing the dead shark beginning to float to the top of the cave helps a little. Hans' heals himself and together the three of them make it back to the rest of the party.
The others are surprised and really worried for the Hans, Avelin and Jaris. They heal up as best hey can and try to calm down. With bloody water dripping off him, Hans slowly gets down to both knees and prays to Kord. Thank him for guiding his morning star on the final strike against the monster. Begging Kord for forgiveness at his weakness Hans is truly humbled but still terrified. Hans will never ever go into the water again once this mission is complete.
Hans' attention is drawn back to the party as a new plan is formed to finish this mission. Elmoth uses his new wand to turn us all into little fish and together we explore the tunnels some more. They are surprisingly empty, except from one room full of female Sahugin and younglings. The school of party fish remain careful and hidden within the cold dark water. More explorations finds more rooms of varying colored tiles, not of lizard folk make, a couple of chests and what the party feels is most of the second level explored. They gather back in the safety of air to discuss how to proceed further and where to look for the stairs leading down to the third and final level. Hopefully they can venture through the tunnels without being seen. Hans decides to sit the next bit of exploring out and offers up his antlered helmet and ring of free movement to the dwarf. Conversing with his lizard men he tries to appear confident, strong and brave but deep down he will never forget the blood tainted water and the terror inspiring shark that nearly ended his life.
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Post by dragonforgotten on May 9, 2019 23:29:44 GMT -5
With the boons gifted out among us i notice someone important missing and i start to sweat honestly. Where the wizard? He was just here and we need Elmor NOW more than ever. For all the times for him to disappear he chooses now. We take time for the priests to pray for our saftly, i'm not going to question their methods. The time has come for us to explore the depths. Some of us drink the potion praying for it to last long enough and we all go in. Waruk makes the decision to stay with the lizardmen. I take Avelinns hand and I slowly lead her into the water. Before i had only stuck my head in and i pulled it up before it could really cover my face. Once again the cloak seems to take on a life of its own as the hood begins to cocoon my face, i cant see for a split second till it fully completes the transition. The cloak adheres to my back as the cloak folds turns into dark manta wings with the tail. It is a bit disturbing. I gasp, taking in water and i can breath again. "You alright?" Ask Avelin? "Ya, just startled is all. Do you still think i'm hansom despite being a fish." "Cutest fish i've seen." I kiss her hand and i see something moving behind me out of the corner of my eye. She giggles pointing and i turn around to see the tail with its nasty stinger, actually moving back and forth. I get it to stop, surprised that i now have a tail as part of the deal. with the group ready we swim forward with the small group of lizardmen. Ive never felt so graceful in the water. With the cloak i glide like a bird on the wind, perfectly at home in the water. Wonder if this is how sea elves feel. I did a little barrel roll, just for the heck of it. Just as we make progress we stumble upon two Sahugin, male and female. We dispatch them mercilessly, fearing the retribution should we let them live. Their blood tints the water red and i'm hit with a realization as i collect their possessions. "We should keep moving. The blood is going to attract sharks." no one argues my theory so we swim but theres a foreboding pit sitting in my gut. I have a bad feeling about this. Not five minutes later the group who had taken doses of the water breathing potion are starting to gasp, breathing a little harder than normal. We're out of time. "Its time we regroup." says Nyleen as the rest start to retreat as fast as possible. The pit in my stomach sinks lower as only Hans, Avelinn, two lizardmen and I are left alone to follow the fleeing groups trail. Avelinn grabs the top of my manta head while Hans grabbed onto one of his soldiers tail. We glad as fast as possible but the foreboding sense of danger grows. Suddenly a sharp spike of danger hits my sense and i turn around in time to see a shark. The biggest shark i've ever seen. Big enough to bit a small ship. My head starts to feel funny, as if my very thoughts of revulsion is trying to kill the shark but nothing happens. No one has noticed the shark besides me. With a Hand to my head push in front of Avelinn, hand to my head as the monstrous shark bits a lizard man clean in half as its lower body sinks to the bottom. The water is so bloody its hard to see. Where is it!!?? Its dead eyes lock onto me as I stare frozen in horror. It charges, maw wide! I flinch, raise my arms over my head, tuck in knees as suddenly its dark. What happened? Whats going on?! Where am I?! Its hard to see, my infravison is coming up red from all sides! I struggle, pressed by all sides as i slide down this dark moving tunnel till i land in this putrid cess pit. my eyes burn and i cough, theres only enough room to get into a kneeling postion with the help of my sword scabbard. I blink and land eyes on to the other half of the lizardman highlighted in purple and blue due to the infra vision, his expression trapped in pure shock. no... I look around and the walls are red and pulsing. I am in the belly of the beast. the entire room gurgles and trembles as gases are released and another dead lizardman lands on top of the other one, bounces off and plops into the pool of rising stomach acid. "NOOOO!!!!" I raise my sword and thrust downward, the stinger of my tail raises up and stabs above. The entire room shakes and contracts as the beast writhes in pain. "Like that you B******! Do I taste good! Then Have another one!" I stab again and i stumble almost losing my footing and falling into the acid. Im losing strength and fast, blood falls on top of my head as someone, Hans or worst yet Avelinn are getting attacked. "Im not dead yet! You son of a B****!" I stab and it trembles. "Spit.... me out! SPIT ME OUT RIGHT NOW!" I stab. the room twists. My arms are getting heavy." "I cant die here! I just got married!" I stab but theres no force behind it so nothing happens. I start to sob uncontrollably. "DAMN YOU GRANNY J!" I stab, it quivers, arms trembling. "YOU SOLD US OUT FOR WHAT!? We DID'NT ASK FOR THIS?" I stab nothing happens. "I CANT LEAVE HER BEHIND! I WONT GO!" stab, nothing. I place my forehead against the hilt of the sword. I have nothing left....." Im not going." I choke. Tears streak down my face closing my eyes... I raise the sword one more time Screaming in righteous anger! -------
Me and Avelinn are sitting at the bar laughing, drunk off our a*****. The night is a blur of color, sound and maddness. The acholo sits warm in my stomach. We covered a horse in chocolate, hehe.. I love holidays. Avelinn pointing at one of my pointed ears giggling. "You have such long ears for a half elf. Do they pick up more sound than the average ears?" "Naw, They're the same, just look funny. Sorry to disappoint." "No there not! There too cool to do nothing!" I flush, or is it that last glass of fire giant ale. "Wellllllll..... they can do this." I make one ear droop and wiggle up and down. "There not as long as real elf ears but they certainly have some movement to them." Avelinn gasps as if i've done a triple back flip hand stand. WHICH i can! "That. is. Amazing. I need to touch!" She then grabs my ear. Involuntary its moves out of her hand and i giggle myself between a hiccup. "When i was a kid. I actually hated them. They are too long for human ears but too short to be elf ears. I considered docking them. So i could fit in." she sits up a little straighter. "WHAAAt! thats terrible! I love your ears. I cant even move mine! look!" nothing happens. "See! Don't let people tell you *hiccup* you have funny ears! Their just ugly and hate themselves! I like a guy who breaks trends!" I sputter in my drink watching her. My heart a million miles away. The warm light of the fire makes her smile sparkle. Shes... I don't think i'm drunk enough. "BARKEEP ANOTHER!" I slap a something down. It could have been a button at this point. He places it down, its a hard cider. We both laugh at each other as she tells me about her village, the fish and the boat. I tell her about the cravvan, our customs, the curse/blessing, the large extended family. I spill it all. Even the werid moments i cant explain. I don't even know what time it is or who's even in the bar anymore. It's only me and her now. "Say Mr. Theif. If you could have anything in the world what would it be? I know i would have a war elephant with a tiny hat." "hmmmmm. Id say a pink miniture pony then." "Why miniature? "Pocket sized baby. pocket sized...*hiccup*.. "I guess stealing the elephant is off the table then isn't it." "Of course not! I can steal anything! I could steal the kings crown, in front of his snooty court, right off his head and he wouldn't notice. An elephant will be a cake walk! Nothings impossible for me!" The smirk falls off my face. "Well. There is one thing i've never stolen. Probably never will too." I become cress fallen, a glup down the last of the cider. She slapps me on the back, startling me from my stupor and sends me into a coughing fit. She pulls me up from my slouching, a hand on the bar. "Don't think like that! Its only impossible if you give up! You just have to faith in yourself so chin up!" she tells me and the world seems to glow in a new light. Her eyes. Are like the rarest gems i've ever seen framed by her waves of dark ebony hair. The candle light illuminates them just right. She seems to glow with an otherwordly radiance. My heart has stopped. Im lost in those eye and i feel weak. I..I... "Why don't you tell me what is? Maybe i can help!" I... I-I-I.... What the f**** is happening to me?! This feeling in my heart is both light and taunt. I feel calmy, both nervous and excited at the same time?! Am I sick? This isn't like me! Keep it together! She's staring at me, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear and my heart stutters. Ive been ignore this growing feeling for so long. Its agony to watch her around other men, flirting with her, i am in nirvana when she speaks to me, when she holds my hand i feel at ease. Ive pushed it down, smothered it. I tell my self over and over that its just my imagination but i am weak. I cant bare it any longer. Im flushed, both hot and cold from alcohol or something else. I swallow the lump in my throat recovering from my fit. "Ive, Never told anyone, but I'll tell you." I whisper I lean forward as if to whisper a secret. she so focus on listening she doesn't notice Ive taken the ring off my finger. "You see. The one thing Ive never stolen is-." I then kiss her, faster than she can respond. Her eyes go wide as i close mine, she's so stunned that she never notices the ring slide onto her finger. My heart is beating a mile a minute. I except her to push me away. To scream and yell at me but instead she kisses me back. my heart soars..We part, breathless and i open my eyes to meet her stunned beautiful face. "a heart." i whisper to her. She starts giggling and i end up joining her. from somewhere in the tavern i hear someone in my hazy liquor filled mind. "oohhh snap!" shouts Cayleen, Gregolas is next to her with his plate of sliced fruit on the ground after haven dropped it in shock.. ---------------------------------
I twist the blade and the beast jerks, stiffens and the loosen, freeing me!!! I don't question this! I Swim! I pull open the jaws and i break free gasping on the ground! Im alive! I don't take long to rejoice. Hans help me up and i give him a huge. "Thank you brother, for not giving up!" but then i see Avelinn covered in blood and honestly i panic! "AVelinn!" I dart over to her and i hold her in my arms. I pull her away, brush the hair out of her eyes and she smiles a haunted but overjoyed smile! "I thought i lost you!" She sobs. "Me to! but i never stopped fighting!" "Save the waterworks for later! We need to leave before more sharks show up!" Shouts Hans and i couldn't agree more! I would swim with Avelinn Bridal style but her armor is too heavy for me alone. With Hans help we emerge back to dry land and we are greeted with shock, confusion and horror from the rest of the party wondering what the f*** happened. We can only mutter shark before all three of use collapse in the storage room waiting to recover from both our physical and mental wounds. Avelinnns is inconsolable as she lays her head on my lap, wrapped up in my old cloak. Hans is acting like a big tough guy but i can see straight through his facade, he's white knuckled, pale, clutching his holy symbol praying like he's seen his god in the face. I cant believe i survived. I honestly cant stop shaking but I need to be strong for Avelinn.
Jaris the Red Baron
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Post by Aileen on May 10, 2019 14:15:18 GMT -5
Almost eight hours we spent holing up in the not-so-secret room. We rested, and then had to wait for the clerics to pray. I never understood their ways, but they get healing spells so I'm okay with it. Yay, Kord!
I suggest we ring the gong and draw the Sahaugin out, as the breathing and fighting underwater thing isn't going to work out, but my opinion is apparently invalid. I hope we don't regret this later.
We divvy up the underwater breathing equipment and potions. Hans gives me his crystal and I toss it over my head, where it floats. We spend a bit too much time talking and not moving, so we are all a bit worried about how long the water breathing potions will last. When I enter the water I realize that although I can breathe, I cannot swing my sword. Jaris hands me a dagger and gives me a kiss for good luck. I'm not a dagger fighter, this could get ugly.
We go down the stairs and start moving along the corridor. I keep my new sword out for light, and stay in the back with lizardmen surrounding me. I have never felt more out of my element. I love fishing and being by the water, but being in it wearing chainmail... not a good time. Hans tells the lizardmen to obey my orders, and I feel a little better about things. I can't really fight, but they can.
We don't get very far before the front line runs into Sahaugin. Only three of them, and thankfully Hans, Jaris and Rivaldi take them down fairly quickly. Jaris finds random gaudy jewelry on the Sahaugin and gives them to my lizardman guard/bridesmaids. We move on, but soon Nylen and Rivaldi begin gasping. The potions seem to be wearing off.
"Take them back!" Hans orders to four of the lizardmen. The lizardfolk whisk them away at top swimming speed. Gardrod and Ballard also turn back, as they also depend on the potion to breathe. This leaves Hans, Jaris, two lizardfolk and I remaining. We think about moving onward, but then after a couple minutes of deliberation decide its safest to turn back.
We waited too long. Jaris raises a cry of alarm, and I look up to see the biggest shark I have ever seen in my life, over twenty feet long! It's cold, black eyes stare back at us as it moves in with only one goal in mind. Kill.
It takes down Pete the lizardman first, mercilessly tearing him in half. Blood fills the water in a cloud of red, and the shark shakes the body in its jaws before swallowing the remains. I remove my shield, pulling out Jaris's dagger. I try to slash at it, but I can't get through its thick sandpapery skin. It lunges at Jaris, who looks like a manta ray to it, and in watch in horror as it swallows my husband whole.
"LET HIM GO!!!" I fail to stab it again. "JARIS, DON'T YOU DIE!!!"
I manage to stab into it, but I'm just not doing enough damage. It kills the other lizardman, even more blood filling the water. It goes into a frenzy, and I'm in its path. The first bite tears into my arm, and I can feel the bones break and muscles shredding as the dagger like teeth sink in. It shakes me around like I'm no more than a small fish. So this is how it ends, is it? My husband in the belly of the beast that kills me.
It let's go for a moment, as if relishing in the taste of my blood. I can barely take another breath through my screams as it lunges in again, taking my leg in its mouth this time. I feel myself passing out as death embraces me. Goodbye, Hans. You were the best friend I could have asked for. Jaris, my love, I will be with you soon.
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I open my eyes and Jaris is there. This is the afterlife, then. Why does everything still hurt so bad? I smile weakly through the tears
"I thought I lost you."
"Me too. But I never stopped fighting!"
I can see now this isn't the afterlife. I'm in the arms of the one I love, but we are still in the water, which still is red. This is no paradise. I don't know if I'm disappointed or relieved.
Hans urges us to move on, but I'm too badly wounded to walk out of here. Were he not a cleric, and had he not slain the shark, all three of us would be very, very dead. They both grab me and swim back. I put the ring on, knowing the blood flowing out of us will attract stuff anyway, but feeling safer being invisible. We finally make it to the stairs, and I pull myself up them to safety, before collapsing on the stone ground with a splat.
"What happened?!" Nylen demands as Jaris and Hans fall to their knees beside me.
"Shark." Hans pants, clutching his arm to his side.
I take the ring off, realizing nobody can really see me. I'm too weak to move, and I don't want to. I have never been more afraid in my entire life, and I don't think I am brave enough to fight another day. Jaris lifts me up and carries me to the storeroom, where he wraps me up in his cloak and lays my head on his lap. Wahruck and Gardrod do some healing on me, and physically I feel better, but mentally... I don't know. I have never needed a drink more in my life.
"I'm sorry for giving you the family curse," Jaris says, stroking my wet hair with a shaking hand.
"Worth it." I whisper. "Can we go home now?"
He kisses me, and I know I would give my life for him a hundred times if I had to. The thought of losing him and my friend Hans is worse than being torn apart by a shark.
The others know we have to keep scouting the place if we are going to get enough intel to report back to Saltmarsh. Hans, Jaris and I are too traumatized to go back in, but our wizard has a wand and a plan. We are going to turn ourselves into fish and operate under the sahaugin's radar.
"Aevlin, you're our fish expert." Ceyleen says. "What will we turn ourselves into?"
I reluctantly rally myself. Going into my memory bank, I think of the tiniest ocean fish I have ever seen. The wizard says the wand will allow us to polymorph at will, so we can change shape as needed.
"Are we really going back in there?" I ask the group.
"We have to," Nylen says. "If you need to stay back, we understand. But we need to get more reconnaissance."
I cast aside Jaris's cloak and stand, my body back to working order. I take the crystal floating above my head and toss it to Nylen.
"I'm not fighting anymore, you need this more than I do."
I step into the water.
"Alright then. Make me a fish, Elmarth."
The mage points the wand towards me.
"Metamorph!"
}<^> Aevlin, Fisherwoman of Nyrond <^>{
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Post by Chris on May 15, 2019 11:19:33 GMT -5
The Sahuagin threat is over and you are the heroes of Saltmarsh! Aevlin, Ceyleen, Elmorth, Gardrogq Gravelfoot, Hans Gunther Heinrich, Jaris, Krork, Nylen Starborw, Rivaldi and Wahruk are each given 1,000gp in gratitude, along with a tax exempt status and full citizenship in the town of Saltmarsh.
5,500gp is needed to return Jaris to the land of the living and many of you have enough XP to train so you will have to decide what to do with your treasure, magic items and downtime.
For even more danger is at hand in the near future. The slavers that you first encountered in Nyrond have resurfaced.
It is time to put a stop to the marauders! For years the coastal towns have been burned and looted by the forces of evil. You and your fellow adventurers have been recruited to root out and destroy the source of these raids. But beware, hundreds of good men and women have been taken by the slavers and have never been seen or heard from again!
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Post by Aileen on May 15, 2019 11:36:12 GMT -5
The Sahuagin threat is over and you are the heroes of Saltmarsh! Aevlin, Ceyleen, Elmorth, Gardrogq Gravelfoot, Hans Gunther Heinrich, Jaris, Krork, Nylen Starborw, Rivaldi and Wahruk are each given 1,000gp in gratitude, along with a tax exempt status and full citizenship in the town of Saltmarsh. 5,500gp is needed to return Jaris to the land of the living and many of you have enough XP to train so you will have to decide what to do with your treasure, magic items and downtime. For even more danger is at hand in the near future. The slavers that you first encountered in Nyrond have resurfaced. It is time to put a stop to the marauders! For years the coastal towns have been burned and looted by the forces of evil. You and your fellow adventurers have been recruited to root out and destroy the source of these raids. But beware, hundreds of good men and women have been taken by the slavers and have never been seen or heard from again! Aevlin has 5 250gp gems and 720g on top of the 1000. She possesses the bag of holding and will do anything to get dear departed hubster back, so shes selling them rubies. Leveling can wait. She was really hoping the parentals would send some funds, but they seem to have sold her business and gone on vacation with her hard earned money. She is selling deadibles for 50gp each if anyone in town is interested. The strawberry skulls are really good!
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Post by Chris on May 15, 2019 11:59:29 GMT -5
The Sahuagin threat is over and you are the heroes of Saltmarsh! Aevlin, Ceyleen, Elmorth, Gardrogq Gravelfoot, Hans Gunther Heinrich, Jaris, Krork, Nylen Starborw, Rivaldi and Wahruk are each given 1,000gp in gratitude, along with a tax exempt status and full citizenship in the town of Saltmarsh. 5,500gp is needed to return Jaris to the land of the living and many of you have enough XP to train so you will have to decide what to do with your treasure, magic items and downtime. For even more danger is at hand in the near future. The slavers that you first encountered in Nyrond have resurfaced. It is time to put a stop to the marauders! For years the coastal towns have been burned and looted by the forces of evil. You and your fellow adventurers have been recruited to root out and destroy the source of these raids. But beware, hundreds of good men and women have been taken by the slavers and have never been seen or heard from again! Aevlin has 5 250gp gems and 720g on top of the 1000. She possesses the bag of holding and will do anything to get dear departed hubster back, so shes selling them rubies. Leveling can wait. She was really hoping the parentals would send some funds, but they seem to have sold her business and gone on vacation with her hard earned money. She is selling deadibles for 50gp each if anyone in town is interested. The strawberry skulls are really good! Gems can be sold for 20% of their value.
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Post by Aileen on May 15, 2019 12:25:18 GMT -5
Aevlin has 5 250gp gems and 720g on top of the 1000. She possesses the bag of holding and will do anything to get dear departed hubster back, so shes selling them rubies. Leveling can wait. She was really hoping the parentals would send some funds, but they seem to have sold her business and gone on vacation with her hard earned money. She is selling deadibles for 50gp each if anyone in town is interested. The strawberry skulls are really good! Gems can be sold for 20% of their value. How much does a kidney go for?
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Post by Chris on May 15, 2019 12:35:47 GMT -5
Gems can be sold for 20% of their value. How much does a kidney go for? Ohh, bout 3 fiddy
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