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Post by Aileen on Jun 14, 2020 11:45:54 GMT -5
Drexler and I sit by the fire taking our turn on watch. It’s sometime in the early hours, but dawn is still hours away. I feel slightly constricted being back in my armor, and have a slightly uncomfortable amount of sand in my boots. After we know that the others have had enough time to fall asleep, we start whispering.
“Tonight was nice.” I say.
“It was. I could do without the ghouls, but... you were incredible, Alastrine.”
“You’re not so bad yourself,” I blush. “I was worried you didn’t like me back.”
“Are you kidding? No, I’m just... shy. You’re really beautiful and I’m- well, I’m Drexler.”
Of course our whispering divulges into making out on the beach. Fortunately I manage to come up for air just in time to see another group of ghouls and zombies heading our way.
“S***, there’s more of them!” I scramble to my feet and run for the closest tent, calling for help.
Soon everyone comes out on the beach, but I’m the only one that can see the enemy approaching. I point out the general direction and keep telling them their distance from us. I share the gift of sight once I have some more people who need it around me, and we snap into action.
“Kerata!” Kerata says to me.
“Yes? I know your name.” Did she hit her head?
“That’s what you should name your kid!”
“No! We aren’t having a kid, who says we even did anything?!”
She smirks, wiggling her eyebrows. Crazy tiefling! Was she listening outside our tent again!?
The ghouls and zombies all re-die and all of us survive, but it is very clear that we are not getting any rest tonight. Not on this beach. The lighthouse still looms darkly above us, and we determine we need to figure out what it’s issue is. So we pack up, heal as best as we can, and mosey on down the beach toward the tower.
Fidget unlocks the door, and I push it open only to be barraged by a hail of arrows. I pull two of the darts out of my shoulder and chest, hissing. Dammit I didn’t even consider that a lighthouse would have a security system! I walk in, and see a dead Halfling. Above it, a ghost Halfling. It sees me and rushes forward.
“G-g-ghost Halfling!”
“A Halfling!? Is it one of my cousins?!”
We all rush in, surrounding the ghost, but it does some scary spooky s*** that sends Penny running for the hills. I try splashing it with holy water and fail. Drexler stabs it, pissing it off, and gets touched by the ghost.
“Am I going to have to perform an exorcism?!” I ask, a bit too excited about the concept.
“Nope!” He gasps. “I’m fine, I got this!”
I rush past the ghost just as I hear the cat thief screaming about ghouls. Guess she went upstairs and made some new friends. I back up to the wall and send another vial of holy water at the ghost. It works! He points away, hopefully gone on to the afterlife.
The others take care of the ghoul problem while I do a thorough examination of the deceased Halfling. It was my unfortunate job to assist in autopsies in my guard days, and I’m ashamed that I’ve grown so accustomed to it. I determine that there was some kind of necromantic magic involved in his death, but there is more- the same symbol we found in Tresandar Manor belonging to one elusive Hoobur Gran Shoop, carved into the Halfling’s chest!
We stand around reading the papers tacked to the walls, and discover this was the location of another franchise, the Order of the Stout Half-Pint. There is also a calendar of adventures with the name Wizzy on it- so this is where Talanatha was heading! Judging by what we have fought here, things did not go well for them, from a business standpoint. Oh, and poor Penny now looks a lot older, complete with gray in her hair. I’ve learned not to mess with ghosts after seeing her like this! I pack away all of the documentation into my Documancer satchel, and we head upstairs.
This room was once harboring ghouls, hidden in the wardrobes, but they already fell to our blades, giving us a chance to search for more clues. We find a Halfling sized cloak, money, potions, and other treasure. Realizing there is nothing exciting, Kerata and I run up the stairs, fighting for who gets there first. I’m not sure why she wants to be in the front considering she has more skin than armor, but whatever. We all know angels live longer than demons.
It stinks like sulphur and dog up here. I hear Kerata baby talking something as I come through the stairwell, and when I get up to her I see there are two hell hounds. Admittedly, they are kind of cute, but they would definitely tear us to part. That is, if they were not trapped in invisible kennels.
“Let’s keep going up, they can’t hurt us from there!” I say.
“Right. I’ll be back for you, babies!” Kerata coos to her dogs.
We run up to the next level, finding a trippy rainbow bedroom which seems to be the top floor. And then the screaming starts. We run back down to find the dogs escaped, and are toasting our friends alive in the stairwell. I fire some spells, but then I’m caught in a fiery blast trying to get to my sweet Drexler. I lose consciousness, wishing I could have done more.
“Wake up, chicken wings!” Kerata yells, slapping my face.
I feel a bit crispy, but I taste healing potion in my mouth. My demon friend saved me!
“Thanks, Devil Woman!”
I spring to my feet, running into the battle. Poor Drexler is getting torn apart, but still he holds his own. I start swinging my sword, getting into the thrill of battle after nearly dying. In the stairwell I hear Layton verbally assaulting Arkenfeld, furious that he can’t get up the stairs. Oh, how I miss the clang of iron, the annoyed shouts of my brothers in arms that can’t get up the stairs, and the smell of- oh, guess they’re dead. Well, at least we all survived!
We head upstairs, hoping to get some rest. Those dogs really did a number on us. This room is a bit loud and looking at the walls makes me nauseous, but it feels relatively safe. I come up next to Drexler as he looks into a glass tank, fascinated by it.
“It’s a spider!” He grins, tapping on the glass. “Hello Mr. Spider!”
It’s a spider sure enough, but not a normal one. This one is completely rainbow! I walk away for a moment, pulling out bandages for us, when Drexler excitedly draws our attention back to the tank. Looking in, a new web has been spun, with some words in it:
What makes you think I can f***ing speak?
🌙 Alastrine
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Post by Stephen on Jun 14, 2020 16:33:59 GMT -5
Alastrine and I have the last watch. We sit together by the camp fire. I get lost in the flames until Alastrine speaks to me. I awkwardly make small talk and she mentions the festivities and before I know it we are making out.
Alas, we are interrupted by more undead. We wake the others, Alastrine give me the sight and we get ready for a fight. The undead are no match for us. As this is the second attack in one night we decide to pack up, leave camp and make for the lighthouse.
The door to the lighthouse was trapped, Alastrine takes a few arrows. Inside we a deceased halfling. And his ghost. I hit it with my new short sword. It doesn’t like it. Being slammed by a ghost is horrible and it takes its fury out on me. It’s fist goes through my chest leaving behind a cold fire.
Poor Fidget drew the attention of more ghouls and now we have a proper fight. We all get a little beat up but mange to kill every thing. The smart ones in our group find more evidence of the elusive teifling and another failed franchise gone to wayside. This is getting deep.
Alastrine and Kerata take lead up the spiral stair case. As I get to the third floor the hell hounds break their magic circles and start attacking us. They were contained and only spit fire until most of us got on this level of the lighthouse.
This fight is painful. There was some sort of miscommunication and a blockage of hero’s on the stairs. The hell hounds rip into me. I cannot find my usual combat rhythm. I miss a hit and get clawed for it. I trip over my own feet and one of them bites down hard on my leg. Thankfully my friends unclog themselves and finish the fight. Alastrine coyly heals me and praises me for my bravery. I blush.
The next room is really weird. There is moving light everywhere on the walls and floor. Exploring the room we find some furniture. The neatest thing in the room is a tank. Like a fish tank. In this tank is the coolest looking spider I ever seent. It has all the colors of the rainbow striped on it. I smile and wave at it. It raises one of its legs and waves back!
I call the others over and show them. I ask the little guy if he can speak. He begins to move around his tank spinning a web. After a minute or two I can make out a message:
What makes you think I can f****** speak
We all laugh and I swear I see the spider shake a little as if it is laughing too.
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Post by dragonforgotten on Jun 15, 2020 15:59:00 GMT -5
(Years ago)
I company my lady in the garden. Too bad the visit is not so pleasant today I cringe as my she sews together the large slice up my arm. She’s being rather rough today. I suppose this is punishment. She scrowls, muttering to her self as she finishes sticking me, threading the needle up my wound. “Honestly why did you pick that fight. They were just street thugs. If we gave them what they asked for We could have just walked away.” A hiss escapes me as she digs her nails in. “Apology’s. They slandered you’re name through me. It is an insult to my blood to allow lesser creatures to disgrace me and you. Ow.” I respond as she intentialshly pulls at the thread type. “Well next time would you mind not doing crazy gos se anymore. I swear, it feels like now I’m babysitting you now.” “These wounds are superficail. I am still able. It is my duty to protect you.” She sighs. I can tell she is frustrated but I can’t be sure with what. Her brows bend in a way. Heavy with frustration. “Listen. For now on if your jumped by guys again in a alley way do not get into these scraps. You will lose.” “Then what shall I do?” She gently wraps up my arms. “Just focus on defense. Wait for the guards or me. I’ll come and help you. You don’t need to kill people or get yourself injured.” “And if you don’t.” “Then someone will. I don’t like seeing you throw your life away.” I finally have my arm back as I test it’s movements. Still rather sore but it will do. “As you wish.” ——— (Present)
Well. I’m in a pickle. Ruffians have me cornered by all sides. Isn’t this familiar. I chuckle to myself. Oh how the dirty streets of Neverwinter continue to bring back memory’s of Bauldrs gate. Ah, such a familiar scene. Did not end well for me that time. I could buy smite the weasally one but the lot would simply gang up on me. I am not at liberty to be cutting heads off right now. I rather keep my hands clean. That one obviously knows our missing contact. As dire as it is for me, this could be a blessing in disguise. I must simply keep them here. I flick my tongue raising my sheild up. “Well. As they say in the streets let’s ‘bring it on’.” I charge through the men, gunning for the spot near the leader. A few got lucky swings at my hide but I am victorious in repositioning myself, Back to the wall as I raise my shield. They all batter and bruise me as I stand bored and alittle annoyed. I hiss loudly when the well dressed thug morphs into a even lesser creature and bits me in the shoulder. I’m filled with the overwhelming urg to kill and consume her but I hold back. Continue my defense. I start to ponder if anyone will come when out form the sky a bolt of light pierced the rat woman’s armor. Sailing above is an Alastrine. It seems her spell shook up mrs vermin up for she makes a hasty retreat, transforming into a full rat. I manage to cut off a bit of her tail as she departs and I direct my guardian angel to follow. The rest arrive as I tell them to please show restraint on these fools. My request was denied. The brutes are quickly killed save for one who I send into a deep slumber. The party scatters as the calls of city watch begins to descend upon my location, least Alastrine did not leave me to face the watch alone. As they approach I can’t help but feel the scales rattle and shift under my cloths as they approach. I did no wrong this time. I did not kill these men. My worry’s are places to the side when they recognize my actions as self defense and it turns out these chaps know Alastrine. They catch up like old pals but apparently for too long. It appears she’s gotten her self stuck on the roof. We help her down with a little muscle and take the surviving to the prison. Together with penny and Abby we investigated this so called hole and found they will only let family of the condemned inside the prison. It is difficult for me to accept the short cut of justice that Neverwinter law employed though I can not come back to it as myself. I can’t shame my lady. Reconvening it appears Abby and penny have come up with a plan and I find my beautiful scales covered in make up and my hair braided in a way that it covers the ones she couldn’t hide. I shall henceforth be names Lewis of the Krahals It goes as well as expected. We arrive prime and proper and manage to strike a deal with a crooked guard though much poorer then we left. Honestly. Revolting. When we return from brown nosing we immediately change rooms but wait in the inn. Laying in wait for betrayal. Word of mouth can only go so far without trust behind them. To my shock the promise was kept and we are told of the information to retrieve our goal. ———
One successfully smuggling later were back on the road as I’m feeling rather dower. I was so close. The curse could have been lifted but duty came first. There’s not a lot of pep in me today, I don’t even blink when we head a rescue attempt on the shore side trying to save a group of sailors from angry celphopods. What I did not see coming is being pulled into a full rebellion at sea. All well that ends well I suppose. Got a cross bow out of this mess. Least we now have a crew of slaves at beck and call. We’re returned to the beach, back to the task at hand before that distraction. The darkened light house stands like a black gloomy stain as we search the tents. Nothing much besides a chest. The group seem to tire for they want to rest. I spend a akward moment trying to find whom should I share with. It turns out with dwarf and Kerata. She’s seems to get a kick out of harassing dear Abby and Drexler in their copulation. I don’t understand their actions. It’s is strange. Surely they couldn’t desire spawn now of all times? We haven’t even established well fair or life insurance which reminds me... I’m pulled form my thoughts but the groaning of undead. I stand up hefting sword and sheild. Duty calls again. ————
I return victorious back to the tent as I can listen to Kerata mock the two mates before returning to our tents. As great a warrior as I am it is time I take off my metal shell. I remove my armor, climb into my bedroll and fall asleep.... then I’m awake again as Kerata yells in my face, kicking me in the ribs as I rouse with a displeased hiss. I peer outside. Zombies and ghouls again from what my ears tell me. Ah. Time to bring out the guns now. I grab my cross bow, the sea air rushing along my exposed scales as I wake Fidget and take aim. First shot. The bolt flies and a thud is heard. Ah, I see I still got it. It’s been far too long since I’ve held one of these. Second shot and I can hear it strike home as the dead shamble from the darkness as I plant another bolt between its eyes. The rest so Follows afterwards as the undead are delt with. It’s becomes apparent to all of us that we will not get an wink of sleep till the dart light house. Spends a chill down my spine knowing a light house is the very reason of my cursed state. We approach the door but as our theives jimmy the lock I’m suddenly wracked with blinding pain as hundreds of bolts pierce my flesh. So blinding fact that I stagger and lose consciousness yet remain standing on my feet. Blinking past the pain I regain my sense to find everyone has rushed into the light house screaming about ghosts and ghouls with Penny trembling in the corner. “Apologizes the agonizing pain stunned me-“ She turns around to face me and I am silenced as I see her youth appearance has dramatically aged. “Dear, you appear to have aged 30 years since we last talked. What has happened?” “Ghost!” “Ah, right. Well then.” I heft you my sword and step into the room. Turns out I’m not needed for this halfling ghost fight for the ghouls become a more pressing issue. These undead are rather short then normal. The dawn of understanding enlightens me. “It’s appears we have discovered the franchise of the stouts halfling.” “Layton that’s not their name.” Abby shakes her head as she puts her mitts all over the corpse and stuffing documents in her bag. We proceed upstairs and find some extra magical assistance. Rather nice. It’s all going splendid till a blast of fire rushes through the stair well, crisping everyone black as our cat falls. I drag her off the stairs, wakening her as I grow more and more irate. I am needed up stairs but the stair well is blocked and I lack speed! When I finially get up there archfeild has blocked my way! “Dwarf! Either move in our get out otherwise the hounds will be the least of your problems!” He makes way but just as I arrive the battle is over and I am left the fool. Cursed stairs. Vile stairs. I’m just grateful the battle has not lead to only chared fur and skin and not deaths. Just as I attempt to climb the stairs all of my compatriots once again rush infront of me. Here we go. I shall take my sweet time in my ascent this time. Just as I arrive I am created with the comical sight of everyone pressing their faces to the table of a multi colored spider who’s writer lacks in eloquence.
Layton von Sepra
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Post by Aileen on Jun 21, 2020 11:35:16 GMT -5
We get a surprising amount of information from the spider, whose name is in fact Rainbow. He did not like that we were calling him Bowie, although it is a far superior name. He tells us via a Ouija board I draw him on paper and in webs that Hoobur came here and joined the franchise, the Order of the Stout Half-Pint, and then betrayed them. He started cranking out undead and made the lighthouse lamp dark to keep people away. Wizzy the Wizard is still alive, but in a half-alive state, being held in the secret basement that can only be reached through a teleport in the light. Of course the spider doesn’t know how to use it.
My attempt to secure an official work contract with Rainbow results in a lot of work on my part in drafting the document followed by an insulting tirade from the spider, who refuses to sign. This is not a good business practice on his part, and I can see why the OSHP failed.
We try to sleep up here in the rainbow room, and I quickly fall asleep after taking first watch with Drexler. Kerata of course supervises, but we aren’t dumb enough to sneak off and fool around when in actual danger. I’m woken roughly from my sleep as something claws me, and blink the sleep out of my eyes to find myself surrounded by zombies and ghouls.
“Get up, Girl!” Drexler calls, standing above me with his weapons drawn.
I get to my feet, letting my blanket drop, and face off with the undead while stark naked. I’m sure everyone will get used to it, I just don’t like sleeping in the same clothes I wear all day- that’s just gross. Drexler sleeps in his leather armour, but I won’t get into that as he still smells good.
Drexler and I fight our horde side by side as the others deal with a smaller number of them across the room. I use my holy powers to damage the vile creatures, but they’re tearing me apart. I’m all cut up and growing weaker, and the ghouls are still moving. Finally Drexler kills one ghoul and Fidget destroys the other. I’m panting, bleeding, and exhausted as I run up to Layton, who has spent most of the battle flopping around on the floor, and slap him awake.
“You’re fired, Layton. FIRED!”
“I tripped, Abby!”
“Fi. Errrrd.”
sLeeP offers me a healing potion, seeing as none of us have any healing spells left.
“How much you want for it?”
“Hm. Wanna make out?” She suggests.
“Umm...” I look at Drexler across the room. I can’t betray him like that, as easy a payment as it is. “Not really, sorry.”
Despite my threats to end his entire career, Layton heals me. I then go up the ladder to the trapdoor to close it. When I peak in the upper area, I can see an enclosed catwalk and the dark lamp room. There’s nothing scary up here. Yet. It’s also finally light outside!
“Good morning, everyone!” I cheerily call as I close the trapdoor behind me.
“Shut up!” sLeeP growls, going back to sleep.
We take an hour to regain our strength, and then head up to the top. I pop in, followed by Layton, and immediately we are attacked by shadows. I start trying to get the door open after seeing a shadow disappear into the light room as the others come up, but even slamming my Greatsword into the glass as hard as I can does not break it. As I’m working at it, some glowing skull thing joins the battle, and the shadows appear to be getting stronger as the dark light hits them.
“Someone get over here that can do door things!” I growl, kicking it for good measure.
Drexler destroys the Will ‘o wisp, and turns to me grinning.
“Sorry if that was a relative, Alastrine!”
Fidget gets the door open, and I run in. One of the shadows is here, and I give him the ol’ sacred flame. It touches me, and I feel a little dizzy, knowing it’s trying to tap my strength. I take a good look at the light, and realize it needs someone of more intelligence to figure out what’s going on with it.
“Someone smart- get in here!”
Kerata and Penny come in, ready to fight.
“She said someone smart, ladies!” sLeeP brushes past them, and checks out the light just in time for a shadow to attack her.
Layton comes in, and immediately trips and falls on his face.
“If you had a tail, maybe that wouldn’t happen!” Someone yells.
After a bit, the shadows are destroyed and the light is restored to its normal glory. As I stand in it, I realize it’s healing me! We stand in the light, feeling it restore us- it is glorious! I never thought a lighthouse would have a purifying light. A minute later, it returns to a normal light. sLeeP discovers that the runes give a password for the teleport, and we all stand in the light as she says “Osto Draco.” There is a blinding flash, and then we find ourselves in what looks like a laboratory.
There is sciencey s*** everywhere, beakers of sketchy looking liquids and body parts. On one table is a struggling tiefling, likely Talanatha, and a construct standing over her. There is also a gnome in hideously loud colorful robes with blank eyes and a thousand yard stare, and a chipper gnome in dark robes and wearing a red fez bearing the logo of Dran Enterprises. He looks up at us, casually sipping from a cup of tea.
“Hello! Come, have a seat- would you like some chamomile tea?” He asks. “I’m Hoobur Gran Shoop.”
“Nice to meet you,” says Layton. “It’s nice to meet another tea enthusiast!”
Hoobur mentions something about tea coming from keg bot, the construct that is over Talanatha.
“Wait... where does the tea out from?” I ask.
The gnome raises an eyebrow at me.
“I won’t show you, my dear, that would be obscene!”
“Indeed. Hey, Hoobur- question for you. If you had an employee that just lays around all day and doesn’t really contribute, what would you do with them?”
“Well, I would make them into a mindless servant like these undead. You can control them better and make them do the work that lazy employees wouldn’t do!”
“Huh. That’s one way, I guess. You hear that, Layton?!”
Penny and sLeeP get into it with the gnome, and are mad at me for trying to have a conversation. Hoobur talks of his plans, wanting to make a deal with us to continue his work here undisturbed and wants us to protect his privacy. I sip my chamomile tea, thinking it over.
“Yeah, I can’t let you do that, bruv,” I toss the tea cup onto the floor. “Here’s the tea, b****!”
Penny and sLeeP get right into battle mode. I was really hoping for a verbal altercation.
“Wizzy, looks like they want a fight,” Hoobur sighs. “Guess you’re going to have to defend me and die in the process.”
Wizzy stands, casting a spell. The last thing I see is a wave of cold energy slamming through us, and then everything goes numb and dark. I really wish I hadn’t thrown my tea.
🌙 Alastrine
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Post by kylacreepslayer on Jun 21, 2020 17:35:02 GMT -5
Why does everyone assume I am so afraid? They no nothing of fear.
. . .
I have been mostly experiencing dreamless nights and rests. I find a few moments of sleep before being so rudely awaken by more obnoxious ghouls and rather annoying zombies. But before I was ripped from my slumber, I had a dream for the first time in days.
I am in a sea of milky white, suspended in mid-air like a feather in the wind. Ahead of me, I see a small, dark figure. My mind goes to Father Increase, and the shape immediately responds. Not out loud, but hear a collection of voices in my head.
"Dearest darling Penelope... Do you now recognize me?" That voice - a swirling combination of deep and rough with high and sweet, and another voice I do not quite know how to quantify. It continues.
"Penelope, Father Increase is not here. He is... gone." My heart sinks into the space where truth festers, where I always knew the answer to my inquiry. My family, my choir, my Reggie...
"You know the truth of your family. You know they have been... taken to the darkness". Before I can further request clarification, flashes of previous nightmares come to my vision. Chains, blood, and half-dragons. Collecting my kin like animals. Stumbling towards certain death. A gigantic, horrible dragon, with heads of many colors. Warm tears brush my cheeks. The shape continues.
"You have known this, and we understand why you struggle to accept it. We are sorry." The shape begins to become recognizable. Slender, blonde hair, freckles... and a prayer book in her arms. This cannot be real. Certainly just another dream triggered by our daily stresses?
"Penelope... you must also know the true nature of your ability. You have always been told that your gifts come from the Light, through the channeling of your music and your devotion to Father Increase. But my sweet, with our family gone, how does your magic continue to manifest?"
What is she saying? How can this be? What sense could this make? Surely not some other deity...
"Sweet Penelope, your gifts have come from within. It is not Father Increase who is powerful," The figure moves forward, "it is not even the Light that grants you your abilities," she is within arms reach, surely this is quite a vivid dream "it is in you".
Her hand falls against my rapidly beating heart. It's my own. She comes to full form. Penelope looks back at me. So young, so eager and open to the world. I love her so dearly. But I have never heard of such a thing. How can my magic come from me? I am a mere Halfling, surely no god would grant me with any favors.
"You were born with this gift, Penelope. You. Your own gift grew from within your gentle soul. Your sweet heart lead to you safety, to continue another part of your life. To be righteous and good and sweet. To care for others and the rest of this large world." And the room fades to black.
. . .
I am not a fearful Halfling. Most - especially those of immense privilege - assume I am in a perpetual state of trembling in horror, or petrified of whatever monstrosity confronts me. And they are so, so wrong. How sad for them to see me in such a fashion. I have survived a life with little to no luxuries, unlike some in our party. I scraped by on roasted rats and water collected from stalagmites. We didn't have the luxury of tea, or down pillows, or goddamn sunlight. But I brought inspiration and care to my family, as they marched to their death. As I have come to realize the fate of my family - my entire universe - I still stand unafraid.
So continue to underestimate me, you will be sorely mistaken.
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Post by Stephen on Jun 21, 2020 20:46:51 GMT -5
The spider is awesome!!! Rainbow, it’s name, fills a lot of blanks in. Rainbow is a familiar. His master is below the lighthouse. He tells us of another gnome that joined the Order of the Stout Half Pint. A magic user. Eventually he betrayed the Order and killed most of them.
Alastrine and I take the first watch as the others try to sleep. We make small talk. The time passed smoothly. As our watch comes to an end Alastrine gets naked and we share a bedroll. Odd girl, sleeping in the nude. To each their own. She fights better naked than most do in armor.
Naturally we get attacked by ghouls and zombies again. They came from the light room of the lighthouse. My short sword goes to work.
The fight ends abruptly. We decide to head up to the light room thinking that’s where the undead are coming from. I’m fourth in line to go up and all hell breaks loose!
Wraiths and black willow wisps attack us. We fight back. Fidget gets the door on the globe open and some of us go in. Sleep figured the black light out.
All the undead are gone and somehow the black light turns normal and as it spins the beam of light heals us all. It felt nice and warm as it passed over me.
Rainbow was right and there is a teleportation room. Sleep activates it and we are transported to a large room in the basement. This place is clearly a laboratory. All the classic tools and books and tables and flaks and stuff. We find a teifling in a cage, a dulled Wizzy and a gnome. Layton tried to talk to him about tea but Penny and Sleep push a fight.
Well that didn’t go so well. That gnome is a powerful spell caster. His cone of cold knocked most of us down. The walking tea keg spewed hot oil on other s. The two of us still standing surrender. Dunno how we are gonna get out of this one.
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Post by Aileen on Jun 28, 2020 9:59:01 GMT -5
Service Contract This Service Contract is being made between Dragon Associates located at Tresendar Manor, Phandalin, Faerun and Rainbow the Spider located at Silent Sound Lighthouse, Headquarters of the Order of the Stout Half-Pint (OSHP) on 24 Kythorn 1492. Dragon Associates and OSHP may also be referred to as "Party" or together as the "Parties". This Contract will become effective on 24 Kythorn 1492 "Effective Date". 1. Services We agree to perform the services "Services" listed in this Section 1. The Parties acknowledge that their obligations pursuant to the Agreement serve as good and valuable consideration for this Contract. a. Services i. We will investigate the lighthouse in it's entirety. ii. We will destroy any undead or other threats to parties. iii. We will search for one Wizzy, member of OSHP deemed missing. iv. We will stop one Hoobur Gran Shoop if deemed necessary. 2. Compensation We are a business, not a charitable organization. Franchises do not pay for themselves. Total Cost of the Services: Any and all treasure found in investigation, up to and including personal belongings of OSHP members deemed "deceased". 3. Term The term of this Contract is One (1) day from the Effective Date, unless terminated earlier for other reasons available in this Agreement. 4. Termination a. If either Party wants to terminate the Contract before the termination date, they must provide the other Party a verbal or webbed notice. If You terminate the Contract before the Services have been completed, You will be liable to Us for a pro rata share of the total cost of the Services as outlined in Section 2. b. This Contract will automatically terminate when both Parties have performed all of their obligations under the Contract and all payments have been received. Our work here is done. 5. Relationship of the Parties No Exclusivity. The Parties understand that this Contract is not an exclusive arrangement The Parties agree that they are free to enter into other similar agreements with other parties and Aquisition Incorporated franchises. 6. Waiver Neither Party can waive any provision of this Agreement, or any rights or obligations under this Agreement, unless agreed to in writing by the Parties. If any provision, right, or obligation is waived, it’s only waived to the extent agreed to in writing. [The remaining three pages have been ripped up] 25 Kythorn 1492 From: Sister Alastrine Kearney To: Omin Dran Re: OSHP Dearest Mr. Dran, I have attached the contract drafted for Rainbow, Spider Representative of the Order of the Stout Half-Pint for services rendered. Subject refused to sign, however we did complete the services and freed OSHP member Wizzy and Company of the Golden Mongoose member Talanatha Three-Coins. We encountered one Hoobur Gran Shoop, who we agreed to let use the lighthouse as OSHP members other than Wizzy are now deceased, or un-deceased if you will. Please advise on further action regarding Hoobur, who also refused to sign any contracts for services rendered. He claims to dislike Dran Enterprises, however wears their company logo. We await your speedy reply. Sincerley Yours, Alastrine Kearney, Documancer Dragon Associates
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Post by dragonforgotten on Jun 28, 2020 23:43:05 GMT -5
My luck has gone sour on me since the moment I stepped with the walls of the light house, source of my curse and misery. The spider informs us of the fate of its companion and master and with that we once again try to sleep. I can’t understand for the life of me in sleep now while or ghostly ghoulish foes trap about above our heads and bellow our feet but no matter. It turns about later to be a poor choice. I haven’t the foggiest how it happened due to the splitting headache. I’ve been told I fell and cracked my head no sooner had i arises form slumber. It’s my rotten luck. I’ve been called lazy and mocked but I take it in stride though it does bother to be so lacking as of late. We fight the shadows above, I note the strange magic effecting the lamp room as Abby rushes in. In the heat of the moment there I go again! I tripped and smashed my head to the floor right in front of the bloody shadow. Of course some god must have mercy on me for it misses and quickly dispatched. “Laying down in the job again layton! We should make you a tail so you stop tripping.” “I am aware Alastrine. I am aware.” Sleep sets the light house lamp right and in a wash of its warm glow all our wounds heal. I simply enjoy the heat on my scales. It is quiet pleasant. It also acts as a novel teleportation to device. With no idea where it goes but hearts filled with gusto we leap into thee unknown, coming face to face with three individuals and a robot. A gnome with a small fezz, a teifling on a table, and another small man not quiet home yet with his glassy eyes. “Ah, you see wizy! They did come after all.” He says sipping his tea. This situation requires tax and grace if we are to get our captives free again. “Good day. I see your a fellow tea enthusiast.” I approach the mechine. A quiet device that dispenses soothing hot caramel tea. I don’t get very far in my talks till I’m being screamed down by Penny and Sleep, Alastrine throws the cup she poured herself violently across the room to show her displeasure of the gnome. I morn the destruction of fine China and a incomplete tea set. Between their yelling I hear the offer of letting the captives go in return of allowing him to work which I’d rather hear more of till the man is throughly provoked by the taunts and violent gestures behind me. He stands and blasts us in chilling cold. When I blink back the frost feeling weak and hissing in discomfort and rage I look behind to see nearly all my companions have fallen, Fidget most certainly among the dead. I sigh heavily as I observe the chaos with Drexler stablizing the dying as Penny screams in blind rage. Ever fiber of my being tells me this battle is lost. To attack would mean complete anhillation, though I do not possess fear the instinctual recoil of death does not set me right along with the numbers of potential lost behind me. It is not intelligent to continue. The best course of action to marginalize lose is to yield. But.... I can feel a twinge in my heart. But I can’t. It would spit in the name of all I am now. . . . . .
I think back to the day I made my oath. She told me if I truely wish to be by her side I must cast off my old identity. That I must learn to show humility, courage. That I must leave behind the pride of the yuan ti, that I love and live for others not myself....
(A years ago)
..At first she was just a thing. A pawn in my mission. I organized her fairs and acted as her hand. Then it became so much more.... I started attending her balls, her vacations. Every event in her life she made me apart of. Slowly her cold stoicism melted and her mocking turned into friendship. She cared for me. Taught me. I discovered the joys of the noble games of the higher activities. She made me little hobbies to endulge in. I think in her way she was trying to make me human without me ever realizing it but I certainly noticed and humored her. It’s then my loyalties were tested. I pull open her chair for her as she sits at the lavish table with her fellow nobility. I take my place by her side and catch the tang of poison in her soup. I could have left it be. My mission wasn’t for her to survive and I already had her fathers favor but I switch it with mine and think nothing of it. There’s assassins about. They seems displeased by this. Of course, at the time it was beyond me that nobility would kill each other. The next day I sat at the table with her. They must have realized that I was a threat to them. That I became more then just her pet snake. And they despised me for having her favor. It happened in the eves. I was guarding her at one of her dinner parties as per usual when I was approached. I was caught off guard when the man threw acid into my eyes. The screaming and the pain was horrific. When the pain left all I knew was darkness. True I thought this would be my lowest moments. I was broken, imperfect. What good was I as a pureblood if I was a solider with No eyes. I could never return home again. I languished waiting for death as is natural to those deemed as failures. I could not read. I could not fight. I simply waited to be left to my fate as all snakes do. But she did not see me as broken or to be discarded. As I lay on my cote she came to me and I felt her grasped my hand. “You need to get up.” I turn to the sound of her voice “I can’t, apologies.” “That’s bullgos se.” “Apologies. It is the way. I am worthless now.” “Your speaking nonsense. Your mine. If I say you get up you get up.” “My lady. I am pureblood. What good would I be to you, to anyone? I have lost my purpose. I can not go back to my king as I am. The only good I can do for him is to die at the alter.” The room goes painfully silent the she speaks. “Then if he doesn’t want you then I will keep you.” I can’t help but raise an eye brow. “You jest?” “I don’t.” I can feel her move my hand over my heart. “I can fix you. I have the funds to do it. I can restore your eyes. For a price of course.” This sends my heart racing but it never shows on my face. “Go on.” I can feel her close to me. “You must swear an oath to me. Abandon your yuan ti nature. In all ways you shall start again and become my knight.” I sit in silence. “That’s a heavy price.... an impossibility for me.” “But is it better then waiting here to die?” “.... it is.. more agreeable.” She squeezes my hand and it hurts. “I will help you learn. I’ll make you more then what you were born as. You may not ever become a abomination like you dreamed but is it not more preferable to live with a purpous then to die without one.” “........ it is satisfactory.” “Will you swear to be my knight.” I reach forward to grasp blindly for her face. “I will Aria.” ........
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I drop my sword and bow my head. “I yield. Do not harm them further.” Eventually the survivors of my party food as well as I feel stricken and sick. I should feel nothing but I feel everything and it’s torture. More torturous then I imagine. I am nothing. Am I’m a broken and no one cares. I am forsaken, I am craven. I broke my lady’s word. All we built. All we strives for and I broke it to save their sniveling lives. We sit down at the table again and I mask my pain through my banter and wit but still the emptiness grows and attempts to consume me. I want to tear it from me. To be whole again. I am a monster. I could not live up to her ideals. I had warned her. I told my lady I was not worth her efforts. I fell back on my yuan ti ways and chose the easiest solution. A real knight would have kept the charge but I yielded and look what that has left me. I don’t deserve to have a name. We’re given a job from this bastard. I go about it through a daze, uncaring if I live or die. Plunged my hand into the spinning death trap apathetic if I lose it. I let myself become consumed and eaten by spiders and cut to ribbons by robotic contraptions. Yet I still live. I do not know how. We’re given our pay and wizy and the teifling are free, but at what cost. I can’t help but hold loathing for my state. I honestly want to lay down and not get up like I tired to before but I can’t. I am at work still whether these so called companions care or not doesn’t matter anymore. I’ve fallen and force I fear I’ll never rise again.
............
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Post by Aileen on Jul 5, 2020 10:13:59 GMT -5
“Alastrine, there’s a message for you!” Penny announces, handing me the stone of sending.
We’ve been gone from Silent Sound almost two days, traveling to Luskan after dealing with the robot things for Hoobur.
“Alastrine Kearney, you holy green b****! F$@# you and all your friends!” Wow, nice to hear from you too, Hoobur. “There was another secret door you failed to find. I got attacked by a mechachimaera! Damn you all, Dragon Associates! And especially you, cleric! You will rue the day you ever met me, I promise you this! I will find you and I will end you, priestess!”
The message ends with him trailing off in a rampage. I hand it back to Penny, shrugging.
“I’m sure we won’t see him again.” I say.
“Better hope not,” Drexler laughs, riding next to me. “How did he get your name and contact info?”
“I drafted that contract, remember? He wouldn’t sign, but I left a copy with him. On second thought, that was a bad decision.”
Penny also receives messages from home office, from a very angry Omin Dran pissed off that he hasn’t gotten his diamonds yet. I think he gets in more curse words than Hoobur did. She calls back and notifies Omin that we have the diamonds safe and will return them once we deal with Luskan. Turns out he wanted us to go to Luskan next anyway, to infiltrate Dran Enterprises’ secret headquarters.
Upon arrival in Luskan it is abundantly clear that we did not realize just how secret these headquarters are. We first run into a woman with a broken wagon wheel, and are almost run into by a flamboyantly dressed guy getting thrown out of a bar. A mandolin is thrown out after, which Layton fails to catch.
“Nice catch!” Says the bard, picking himself off the ground.
Drexler and I, who have both worked on wagons before, help the lady, I hold the cart up while he puts on the wheel, and soon it is all in working order. She thanks us profusely, and asks what we are doing here.
“We’re looking for employment.” I say.
“Not many willing to hire here. I could introduce you to the merchants I deal with if you like?”
We agree that would be beneficial. In the meanwhile, In between trying to shut Layton up as he almost blabs about us looking for Dran Enterprises, the lady shows us her wares. Strangely serated spoons that seem a little painful and a lot useless.
“They’re grapefruit spoons!” Says Layton. Of course he would know, the fancy lad.
“You don’t eat grapes with a spoon!” She huffs. “They’re just weird spoons, but they look nice.”
“No, they’re literally for eating grapefruit!” Drexler laughs.
“I don’t know what that is, if it’s not just a grape!” She looks shook.
“They’re like... a spicy orange.” I offer.
“But pink!” Adds Layton.
I get a spoon to keep, but I’m not sure if anyone else does. Not that it will do me much good, but free is free.
“Well, now if we come across a grapefruit I’m prepared and none of you are!” I announce as we go with the lady to the merchants.
Turns out she has no standing whatsoever with the merchants, but we do get to sell some stuff. Layton of course mentions Dran Enterprises, and it becomes clear that they have a nefarious reputation in this town. People are not willing to talk about them, but Fidget finds a lead in thieves cant to someone named Aeris who deals with them.
We find the shop Aeris is meant to be found at, and it’s being guarded out front by a massive half-orc. He smiles as we approach, and upon speaking with us it’s clear he is dumb as a rock. I squeeze his bicep as I walk in after Drexler, marveling at how huge he is- I can’t even fit my hand around it!
“Penny, find out his workout routine for me!” I hiss.
The rest of us go in, leaving the Halfling and half-orc to talk. Drexler ends up spending 100 gold on a ship in a bottle, and that’s how we find out from Aeris, the gnome lady working there, that Dran Ent. Employees frequently gather at the Fishbone Tavern. We leave, one of us much poorer.
“Alastrine, you’re buying my drinks tonight!” Drexler announces.
“Wow, is this the kind of relationship we have now?” I ask. “Shall we go to the Fishbone Tavern now?”
“It’s a bit early for drinking.” Says Kerata.
“This seems like a drinking town with a pirate problem.” I tell her.
Kerata goes to check out the docks, and I stop by a store to pick up a gift for my... friend? Boyfriend? Whatever he is now.
“Drexler, I got you a pirate hat!” I announce, putting it on his head. “I got one with a big feather. But not too big like you’re compensating for something.”
Kerata finishes her schmoozing, and I ask a random woman for directions to the Fishbone Tavern. By the time we get to a dingy tavern with a sign bearing a real rotting fish, it’s started to lightly snow. A big guy stops us at the door, and a moment later some guy is thrown out roughly.
“A tables just opened up!” He says, escorting us in.
The place is rather empty. I go right to the bar with some of the others, where a big lady who we can only assume is ‘Fryer’ the barkeep we were told about.
“I’ll take your cheapest drink!” Says Kerata.
The whole bar laughs, all five of them, and I watch as an elaborate unbottling ceremony is performed. The result is a steaming wooden mug of something god awful smelling involving dead fish. Kerata slides it over to Drexler.
“Here you go, Drexler. Congrats on the new ship!”
Drexler obviously is too smart to drink it, but Layton volunteers. I watch in disgust as Layton downs it, and he seems... totally fine. The bar breaks out into a round of applause, and I join in. Crazy snake!
“You’re a brave one. First round of drinks is on me for you lot! Anything you want!”
I order a White Luskan, and get a drink that’s more milk than alcohol- much to my liking. I may regret the dairy later, but at least I can’t taste the booze.
“So, what are you in town for?” Fryer asks us.
“We’re um... looking for an organization.” I say.
“Of the Enterprising sort.” Adds Kerata.
“Of the... Dran variety.” I whisper, wiping away my milk mustache.
The barmaid gives me a good hard look, and then softens.
“Come with me to the end of the bar.” She says, glancing at the half-elf sitting near us.
I follow her down while the others mill about harassing the other bar patrons.
“I may know individuals involved with Dran Enterprises,” she says in a hushed tone to me. “I’m not involved with them anymore. There was an unfortunate incident, I don’t like to talk about it.”
I can’t help but notice she seems to feel remorseful about whatever it is.
“What was the incident?” I ask. “Or... if you don’t want to talk about it, I don’t want to pry.”
“I prefer not to... but you seem trustworthy enough. Other than being green- what’s that about?”
“An unfortunate dye accident.”
“On the other hand, it does bring out your blue eyes.” She puts down the glass she is polishing and picks up another one. “Anyway. I had a friend who bad mouthed Dran Enterprises. I reported her, because anyone that goes against them... well, bad things happen. And I got a business to run. She’s no longer a friend, obviously. Word on the street is she’s still a thorn in their side, marked for exile.”
“I need a name, description, and where I can find her.” I order.
“Arla Razortongue. She can make herself look however she wants. She was last seen at the Peg and Hook up town.”
“That another bar?”
“No, it isn’t. Here, I’ll give you directions.”
As she gives me turn by turn directions that I hope I can remember, I notice Penny and Drexler talking and watching some guys while Kerata talks to an old man sitting alone. I’m startled as Fryer pulls me in by the collar of my armor, whispering.
“Look- word on the street is Dran Enterprises is turtling up. They don’t come in here anymore. I have no idea what’s going on.”
“Alright. Thank you very much for the information.” I hand over a gold coin.
“You one of those clericy types?” I overhear the old man asking Kerata.
“No, I don’t like those sort,” she says to him. “Penny can help you, though.”
I can feel my old friend anger boiling up inside.
Breathe, Alastrine. There is no need to cause a scene- you are far more powerful than anyone will ever be, you have the power of Selûne herself! You don’t need to prove yourself worthy!
I make a show of walking by the table as Penny does lesser restoration on the guy.
“Ah, yes, a basic spell. Done many of those when I was first starting out.” I comment.
I go over to Drexler and hook my arm through his.
“Come on, Drexler. I’ve got a lead to follow!”
“Alright, lets go!”
We pass the others.
“Does your power come from the divine!?” The man asks Penny.
“No, it’s just... me!”
I roll my eyes, and ‘accidentally’ bump into Kerata.
“Cleric hater!” I growl under my breath as Drexler and I leave.
It’s refreshingly cool outside, and the snow is rather pretty. Drexler and I head in the direction of the Peg and Hook, and I breath deeply to try to calm my anger. I used to blow up at every little thing, but in my years of training at the temple my superiors taught me to be cognizant of my emotions. Anger can cause horrible things to happen when you have the power of the divine.
It is soon evident that we are being followed by a cloaked figure, and I quickly grab Drexler and pull him into an alleyway. I put my back to the wall, and grab the back of his head, pulling him in close. He smiles as I move in for a kiss, and we make out while I keep an eye on the alley entrance over his shoulder. His hands grab my backside, and as much as I want to continue this I don’t see any sign of the person following us.
“Someone was following us!” I whisper.
“Are they still there?”
“I didn’t see anyone. We might be okay.””
Drexler looks a little disappointed as he fixes his hat, and we walk back out. I hold in a scream as Fidget nearly runs into me.
“Were you following us!?” I snap.
“No, I followed a guy out of the bar that I think was following you! I lost him.”
We continue on to the Peg and Hook, and upon entering it I realize how obvious the name was this whole time. The walls are covered in hooks and peg legs, but upon closer inspection I realize that the hooks are to replace legs and the pegs to replace arms. It’s weird but ingenious!
A human woman stands behind the counter, her arm a peg and her foot a hook. A woman in a fur cloak and heavily armored and armed stands threateningly over her flanked by three armed and armored halflings.
“Come now, Arla- leave your business... leave Luskan, go traveling- a nice little vacation.” She has her hand on her sword, and I can see Arla looks terrified.
I draw my own sword as Drexler cracks his whip. The woman orders the halflings to attack. They all swarm in on Drexler, and Arla extends her peg arm unleashing a blade at the end of it. I cast guiding bolt on the woman, and it’s clear I hurt her badly. She turns to me, but Arla gets to her first. She stabs her, and the woman falls dead just as Drexler kills one. The other two halflings flee, Fidget chasing after them.
“Thank you so much for protecting me!” Arla says, cleaning off her arm blade. “I thought Hoffman would kill me!”
“Are you Arla?” I ask, although we already know.
“Yes. This is my shop.”
“That was most impressive,” I say, stripping the armor and cloak off Hoffman. “Did you make that hand blade yourself?”
“Yes, thank you! Right after I cut off my own hand.”
“Cut off? Why!?”
“Yes, I had to display my wares!”
I strip out of the chain mail and put on Hoffman’s splint mail and fur cloak. Luckily there is very little blood on it. Arla tells us about how she came to be in business here, and her past working for Dran Enterprises. She was fired when they thought her business idea would fail, but it turns out she was quite successful- this being a pirate town. Hoffman and the Halflings were a strike team, much like the ones going around to Aquisitions Incorporated franchises and brutally killing them. Upon telling her we are looking for them, she reveals that their main headquarters is an expensive ship called the Maverick, but they have an alternative one at the docks called Dangerous Business. It has a portal in it that can bring us to the Maverick and some that go elsewhere, but there is no knowing just which one goes where as they change all the time.
Arla buys my chain mail off of me, and we head back to the tavern. We run into Layton on the way, shivering and eating a cookie.
“Where did you get that!?” I ask as he gives me a bite. Chocolate chip!
“Bake sale! They distracted me.”
Everyone in the bar is singing when we enter, Penny playing her lute. Nobody seems to notice us, so I stand on a chair and raise my arms up.
“I’ve just assisted in a murder of a really bad person!” I announce. “Behold, I, a cleric!”
“Nice cloak!” Kerata comments.
“Thank you.” I nod, stepping down.
“Wait... you murdered someone?” Penny asks stopping her playing.
“There were some thugs threatening this lady who runs a store selling hook legs and peg arms. She and I killed the woman, and Drexler killed a Halfling. Two of them got away.”
“That seems like a fake story.”
“Believe what you will, do you not see my new outfit?” I head to the bar. “We got information while you lot were... singing.”
The others finally quiet and listen to our findings. We decide to head down to the docks and see if we can get on Dangerous Business. Before leaving, just as Selûne shows in the sky, I walk outside and douse myself with milk. If I’m going into potential battle I want to at least try to receive Moonfire from my lady. I follow her as best I can, and I hope one day my devoutness is known.
We head to the docks. Penny sneaks ahead and starts busking, her spell getting two of the dog handlers into her charms. She sends them off to get her a sandwich, and leaves two groups of patrols on the docks, and a few men on the boat. Kerata goes to the boat and starts small talk, but then turns to the large ship on the other side of the dock and casts a spell.
“Caster!” Someone yells.
Suddenly the air is filled with shouts and dogs barking wildly. They attack. I cast darkness on the street, hoping it will delay at least some of them, as the others attack. It doesn’t work, angering me. I leap into the fray, fighting with my greatsword and casting my spiritual greatsword to assist. I’m bitten a few times, and feel bad for killing dogs, but they’re viscious and will tear us apart. The men dig into us with scimitars, and more join them from the ship.
I unfurl my ghostly wings, and fly up to Dangerous Business to join all four Keratas. We are completely overrun on the docks, and no matter how many men we drop there are more that join in. There are clearly many more fighting individuals readying to swing off the ship. Kerata jumps overboard as more and more men file out of the cabin of Dangerous Business. I’m knocked to the ground, dazed, and look at my situation. This shouldn’t even be possible, it’s a tiny boat! And yet I find myself getting torn up, surrounded by sixteen or so men. I look to see Drexler jump into the water, making his escape, and Layton holding the line.
“I’m not going until you escape!” He says, bashing someone with his shield.
“Go! I’ll be fine!”
He reluctantly breaks free and runs. I narrowly avoid my head being taken off as I jump off the boat, and fly off into the night. I find Drexler, soaking wet and running, and touch down on the ground to join him. He grabs my hand, and we run until we get to the Fishbone Tavern. Tonight was a failure, and I don’t know how we are going to successfully raid Dran Enterprises.
🌖Alastrine
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Post by Kerata Shortsails on Jul 7, 2020 17:29:05 GMT -5
Gods please kill me now! Wait, screw that. And screw the lot of you. Yo ho and bite my bright red arse. Still, first time back on a ship and i get my leg caught in rope trying to do something I've done a hundred times before. If... if Cap'n had been there to see that, he would've cuffed me something fierce. Still, watching Drex, the sexler, get mauled was amusing. Glad he's okay.
It's been a very interesting few days. Back in Luskin, city of sin debauchery and vice. Smelt like home. Got a wonderful hangover. Screwed up an infiltration job because I half-arsed it, as usual. Childe told me I was too impetuous. Its good to hear that he's alive at least. I wonder what he would think of me. He always swore up and down that the worst thing to do for a mortal would be to swear to one of the 'higher powers'. Selling your soul and loyalty to a being that might not give it back. The Raven Queen is more hands off than I thought she would be, but I can always feel that tingle.
Still, a deal made is one you cannot look back on, and I still have to pay that squat little man back for his betrayal. We took him in!
My new little crew seems alright as well, if I must confess. Al and Drexxie aren't too bad. Bit of an odd couple thing going on, miss holy woman and the sneak thief. Layton's kind of cute. Too bad he's an emotionless snake person who would genocide us as soon as it would advance his people's fallen empire. Yeah, I know about them. Arks... I have been harsh on him. People always say Dwarves are all about law and honor and family. What a load of cockatrice. Still, Ark's proved himself fairly loyal, for now. I'll keep an eye on him.
Finally, I just want to say what fun being an adventurer is. All of the fighting and exotic locales of piracy with very little of the responsibilities. I can see why people love it.
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Post by Aileen on Jul 12, 2020 14:03:33 GMT -5
All of us beaten up, we return to the inn and commiserate over bad ale. Tonight was a failure, but we need to infiltrate Dran Enterprises somehow. Tomorrow we will try a different tactic. We head to an inn across the street, and I’m just about to pay for a room when Drexler stops me and takes my hand to lead me upstairs. Praise Selûne, it’s gonna be a good end to the evening!
The next morning we head back to the docks, our party smaller but ready to roll. It goes much better than before. They’re hiring guards to replace the ones we killed, and we are fighting fit. We gain entry to Dangerous Business, and are led inside by one of the guards. Immediately we stumble on a dead guard, in front of one of the doors. His skull appears to have been... used as a bowl. Something ate his brain!
The guard bends down to examine the body, and Drexler creeps up behind him. I catch his eye and smirk as I think he’s going to do something funny, but he just knocks the guy out. I start examining the body as the others tie up the guard. Male half orc, died of brain removal, dead for merely a couple minutes. I find a pin on him like the one I found on Hoffman, and put it on.
“Alright, which one do we want to open?” Layton asks, motioning to the hatches with glowing stones over them.
The body is in front of the black hematite one, and we decided to try that one. Layton pulls on the latch, and suddenly we are all blasted by freezing cold. Momentarily stunned, we are pulled through into a misty portal.
Upon regaining my senses I see we are standing on a grassy slope near a river that is hustling and bustling with busy barges. Fifty feet away another group steps through a portal, and their leader is a purple guy with tentacles over his mouth. An Illithid?! The two archers with him draw bows and run toward the river. Tentacle man disappears.
The other group starts going for the barges, and it seems they’re making their way to the outhouse on the opposite bank. I jump onto the nearest barge as I see the woman in the other party go on another.
“Donation for a fortune?” An old lady in colorful scarves croaks to me.
“Um...” I look to the other barge to see that lady is preoccupied with a giant snake. Guess I have time. “Sure.”
I hand her three silver coins.
“A gold would be better,” she mutters, then her voice changes to more mystical. “I anticipate good things for you!”
“Alright. Thanks. I guess.” I hand her a gold, and she giggles madly.
I run for the next barge, which is full of every weapon imaginable for sale. I summon my spiritual weapon and send it for the girl on the other barge, as it seems she has sent one toward Kerata. She comes over to my barge as they float by each other, bringing the snake with her. She tries to hit me with her spiritual hammer, and then gets eaten by the snake.
“Holy f***! Thanks, snake!”
The snake hisses, and I run. I nearly slip on the potions store barge, but make it to a bar where people are eating out of steaming bowls. The guys in the other party keep trying to shoot me, but I’m going to quick. I think I’m relatively safe until some angry customers throw their bowls at me.
“Ahhh! That hurts!!” I scream, flinging hot noodles off of my face as the broth burns my skin.
To make matters worse, the snake comes up out of the water and smacks me with... a claw? What kind of snake is this? Luckily Sexler Drexler swims up behind it in his manta ray cloak and kills it!
“You monster!” Yells Layton as Drexy swims away.
Layton joins me on the barge, getting hit by noodles.
“I’m here getting my ass kicked and you’re worried about a snake?!”
I ignore the Paladin’s grasping at excuses and jump in the water. I make it across the rest of the way without being hit by barges, and come out sopping wet on the shore. I run to Drexler, who finished off the last guy. He picks a noodle out of my hair and flings it away before kissing me.
“You alright?” He asks.
“Yeah. Those customers were really pissed at us.”
We turn and watch as a monkey on the pet store barge throws a banana at Kerata, and she slips and falls. Soon everyone is back together on shore, and I go to open the outhouse door.
We are sucked in onto a boat sailing on a sea of bruised flesh. The cabin door slams open and tentacles shoot out at us. I send a guiding bolt into the creature, but then it retaliates with a bright flash of light and I find I cannot move at all. I stand staring at the horrible thing, totally helpless. Layton lays hands on me and then finishes it off, and it’s sucks back into the doorway.
“Okay, I forgive you for the snake incident.” I say to him.
I do a quick prayer and give some health to my associates and I before Drexler opens the next door. We find ourselves onboard another ship, this one in a wild storm at sea. I barely keep my feet as we walk across the deck, and the captain immediately starts barking orders.
“Lower the main sails! Secure the rum!”
He rattles off commands, including watching for waves and taming a beast... I try to do wave lookout, but we are slammed into by a big one so I’m immediately fired from that job. Arkenfeld saves the rum barrels that are rolling around on the deck, and Kerata tries to get to the sails and ends up hanging from her foot in the rigging.
Drexler fails to tame the beast, a tiger, so I give him my potion of animal handling. I join a tiefling named Incinerata or something and she asks me to offer a prayer to lift the curse, seeing as I’m a cleric.
“Great Selûne, save our ship!” I call to the dark heavens.
“The curse is lifted!” The tiefling shouts. “Thank you!”
I highly doubt I did anything, but if it makes people feel better then there is no harm in trying. At last we succeed at saving the ship, and the captain thanks us by leading us to the next portal. As we go through the captain’s quarters we see a log book with evidence that could help us against Dran Enterprises, but Kerata is caught trying to steal it. The captain beats us with a club as we go through the next portal.
We are back at the barge river! Well that was a waste! So we open the door to the outhouse again, and find ourselves on a triangular platform 40ft above the deck of a cargo ship. Dran Enterprises employees are down below, so we try to cross to the crows nest as quietly as possible. We make it across, and I see a fat guy lounging in the crows nest wearing a shirt that says “Big Daddy Donar’s Yum Yum Hut”. Kerata charms him and chats with him while Drexler begins to go down to the deck to steal a bag of maps sitting by an elf. I cast invisibility on him, to his great excitement, and he goes (I think?). Next thing I know he is back and has the bag!
We cross to the aft platform, leaving our new friend behind, and five individuals come through the first portal as we get to the door. Tentacle Face looks over to us, giving us a cold look. We enter the portal.
We are now in a hot, humid warehouse. Outside the windows are tropical trees, and there are crates stacked to the ceiling. We hide as a person humming and the sounds of squeeky wheels approach. Arkenfeld picked the worst spot ever, and is seen by the dwarf woman as she comes through pushing a cart full of keepsakes bearing the Acquisitions Inc. logo. She’s wearing a holy symbol of Moradin.
Arkenfeld steps out and starts heavily flirting with her, and we join him after realizing she is probably not an enemy.
“I don’t have time to talk, I need to catalog all this stuff!” The dwarf woman complains.
“We can help!” Offers Arkenfeld.
“Oh, can you?!”
We all nod. This is probably going to be easy.
“Excuse me miss, where are we?” Asks Layton.
“We are in Chulth!” She says as though it’s the most obvious thing. “Okay, lets get to work, and I will show you the portal!”
We try to help, but it turns out all of us are idiots who have to run our own business because we can’t do other jobs for s***! As we are going to fix our mistakes, a bearded devil appears, and he looks pissed.
“Why can’t you people do anything right?!” He shouts, and attacks!
🌖 Alastrine
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Post by dragonforgotten on Jul 13, 2020 14:55:40 GMT -5
Getting up in the morning was more difficult then I though it would be today. But still I persisted. It appears I slept through the calls we received through the sending stone. Hoobur is not only very displeased with us but so is Omin dran for delaying the reliever of the book. And yet instead of insuring their return we’re going straight for the heart of our rivals in the frozen heart of Luskan. Oh bother. What a hassle. The ride is simple but the farther away we get from the warmer cities and towns do I feel the bitting cold. I practically recoil in my mail, fighting to move as the cold saps my strength and vigor. It is not even dark yet and the cold is bitting. The moment we step into the boundary’s of luskans harden city we experience the local custom of throwing bards out of exstablishments and a vender with a broken cart wheel. His instruments comes flying in my direction but my reaction speed is lathargic. I raise my hands to catch the mandolin only for it to smack me in the face and fall at my feet while I stand there blinking dully through the haze in my head and the shivering of my scales. I stepped around the fallen instrument to help the vendor up from the icy ground. “Thanks for picking it up mate.” I turn slowly back where I came from. “Oh... sorry.” I turn back, pick it up and hand it to him while Drexler and Abby fix the vendors wheel. The bard asks if he could join us but just as I’m about to say the more the merrier Penny screams in protest, saying she is the our company’s bard and there’s no room for other. Such rudeness. I can only glare and shake my head as the poor bard moves along. “Now that was uncalled for.” I scold her as she huffs and puffs. I am honestly still in a sour mood. She and sleep have shown no remorse for their actions and how they’ve wronged me. We did not have to fight Hoobur and because of their behavior and there sway over the group I have been reduced to something disgraceful. It seems my compatriots have not noticed my pathetic state so I tell them what it is. Dear Fidget tries to console me but it’s hard to believe her when I don’t feel like myself anymore. Kerata wished to visit an old friend so I accompanied her for her brief visit. Can not be too careful in a settlement like this. Combing through all our sources and one expensive miniature bottle ship later finds us in front of the fish one tavern. All sorts seem to gather here and not all friendly in appearance. The moment we walk through and up to the bar does Kerata realize she made a mistake by ordering the cheapest drink on the menu. A hideous creation is pushed under her nose and she bualks at it, pushing it off onto Drexler. Sparring the poor man the pain and suffering I drink it. The entire tavern goes silent as I stare at them back unflinching. Disgusting brew, what is this feeling through? There’s a tingling in the back of my head. Strange. Should I sit down? am I about to fainting? No wait. It’s going now. Disappointing. I wonder if I experienced drunkenness. “Shame. I almost felt something.” “Gods layton that the saddest thing I’ve heard all day.” Says Abby. One of the Patreon s if the establish stands up and claps. More soon join till I am recieving a standing ovation. “Ah, well thank you.” I take my seat at the bar as Abbys speak to the barmaid. She tells us this long story about a friend of here’s and bad dealings with Drans employees. The rest of the party begin to mill about the bar, Penny heals a sailors rotting hand and Drexler and Abby vanish back into the cold as I try to recollect and stabilize my bodies core temperature. If there’s one thing my people as powerful as they are can’t stand is the cold. My limbs feel like there are made of lead. I try to speak to the man who started my around of applause cobbled together a paper thin excuse and shuffle out of the bar. I send Fidget to follow but still as I huddle near the fire I feel like a spare part in the cog of life and I am uncomfortable, so much so I brave the cold to find the three so I may not be so useless. The streets are bitter in this harsh mid day. I believe I’m almost near the peg and hook shop when I spy a bake sale. Haven purchased my goods, warmed up with hot soup, and swapped oat meal cookie recipes with a frail old woman in a pink bonnet I continue on my way only to stop and be pulled into a knitting circle on the way. I’m embarrassed to say much confessing came out form my end of my disgraceful state. They were very supportive and even gifted me a very hideous sweater. Not to self. Modify or burn for kindling for warmth, the itchy wool will not feel great against my scales. I start thinking that perhaps I’ve missed it till I dumped into Abby. It takes me a few awkward seconds as I recognize I’ve bumped into her. “Oh. Apologies. Didn’t see you there.” “God layton you look awful! We’re heading back to the bar anyway.” She drags me along and sits me back by the fire. In the end she’s learned things and our next objective. Board the Bad news. Striking while the iron is hot I spy the big news in the habour. It’s a tiny little vessel sandwiches between two massive galleons surrounded by armed men with their very nasty dogs. It doesn’t take long for the plan to do bottoms up in a blink of an eye. I’m in the fray, cutting down mongrels and men alike but still the numbers grow, and grow, and grow. Tactically this is a losing battle. The blokes just keep pouring out of that little tug boat there. The party does not respect me but I must voice this. “Fall back! I’ll hold them off! Just focus on escape!” I call out lopping off a mutts head much to the enraged cries of its master. To my shock the group begins to leave one by one. Soon it is only Abby with her celestial wings on the deck of the bad news. “Run Layton!” “No, I won’t! I’m not going until you escape!” I bash a gents head in with with my shield. I start to feel life flow back to me ironically while the odds are so against my favor. A strength and wholeness filling my soul again. There’s no words to describe it. I finially feel alive again. A normal man would have been brought to tears but mine are still locked inside unable to escape as usual. Abby glares at me from the ship, taking to the air to prove her point. “Go! I’ll be fine!” I take stock, looking around and nod my head. I retreat back through the alleyway as the sun sinks low into the horizon.
Layton von Sepra
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Post by dragonforgotten on Jul 13, 2020 16:13:20 GMT -5
We gather together at the inn. The vote is obvious now that our numbers have been cut and penny and sleep have vanished into the wind. We need to reorganize The house and the business. It’s become apparent after our failure to infiltrate bad news. I’ve given up the duty of Oblivator to become to new Secutarian. With a few strings from bone office and a chubby carrier pigeon I have received a sending stone that flips open, how novel. Someone must have gotten wind of what I am for they sent one in the shape of a serpents head who’s jaws open for the speaker to talk through. Fascinating. One shopping trip later I put on my fake mustache and we all try again with new identities. It goes swimmingly this time though the sight is discerning. There’s a dead half orc in the room surrounded by many doors. This bloke seems to be missing his brains, haven’t been carved cleanly from his skull. Hard to say what did this. The group tells me to open a door and I do, getting a face full of bitting cold as I once again fight off brumation as my sluggishness returns. I despise the cold. I give the group a few choice glares before the door is opened and we’re pulled inside beyond. We stand before a river with many barges lazily drifting down the river but we’re not alone. Another group steps forward from another unknownable door lead by a creature with a celphopod for a face. One door is visible across the river. One door, two groups. We all bolt for it. Scrambling across the boats. My returned status must have been smiled upon for a massive snake kills our foes as we dart across. Sadly through the beauty is kill by Alastrine. I call her a monster as she huffs and puffs with indignation while hot noodles are thrown at us on the ship we bicker on. Such signs of mercy so blatantly disregarded and killed without mercy he showed us. He was a beautiful creature, I just wish I could have reached him in time. Kerata and Archenfeld are bickering far behind us. Don’t tempt me to go back there. I have no patients for squabbles. We finish off the mysterious foes and enter the next door only to come across a strange other world of us standing in a ship in a sea of flesh. Suddenly we are assaulted by a abberation of unknowable origins. It’s flashing lights and tenticales startling and blending some but not me. I rest my hands in Abby, restoring some viltality as I adjust my position while Drexler frantically stabs away. As it lunges to me the sword falls heavy upon it and it whails, crawling back through the door and it it’s strange lands. We follow through determined but find ourselves on a ship in a real sea during a raging storm. I don’t understand where we are anymore. It’s all surreal. The captain comes to us. No time to explain, he needs our help to save ship and crew and we rise to the challenge. It goes bottoms up fast for the rest of my comrades. Kerata is upside down in the rafters, Abby mistimes the waves, a tiger is chewing on Drexler. The run is secured though while I’m left with the captain spying the rocks. I may not have good eyes but the captain does. “You sir, turn with the tides. You are too close to the shore.” “No! I can’t do it all is lost-!” I slap him across the face. “You just slap-!” I slap him again and he stops talking “Is your head clear yet.” He doesn’t respond. “Do not focus on the fear. Fear is a weakness that consumes and controls you. You are captain. Fear does not command you, you command it.” I turn his head back to the sea. “Block at the chaos and the muddling emotions. If you can command them you can command your actions and the sea will listen. Focus.” He listens to my advise and the ship is able to stay the course. Everyone begins to gather together what they should do as I take over Abbys job of watching the waves, calling for when they hit. As the crew regains control I climb up to the rafters and free Kerata. She then is able to bind the sails. The ship manages to escape the storm and sail into calmer waters as the crew cheer. The captains insight is impeccable. He is able to discern we are not with Dran enterprise but will over look us for saving him and his crew and shows us the door. Kerata seems to have the case of sticky fingers because she is caught trying to steal important documents and we are beaten as we leave. We pop back into another ship. I’m sensing a pattern in place. Through quick maneuver and subtitle were able to obtain important documents for AC incorporate but we are not left without questions as we dart through the next door. Another octopus headed creature emerged with a new group and attacks the Dran employees. It glares at Archenfeld as we vanish through the door. I’m a washed with the humid air and the sight of tropical trees sets me at ease and comfort while the rest of my comrades sweat. I feel the sense I’ve returned home in a sense. We are located in a ware house but soon we hear the sounds of a cart. I hide behind a large crate but Archenfeld is not fast enough. We are just lucky that it turns out no only is the newcomer a dwarf but she is also apart of our business. We also learned were in Cthult and a lot of my feelings begin to make sense. This is where the largest settlement of my people reside. No wonder they do. It is very pleasant here. There is no winters here and the humidity is just right for me. She’s fearful of not being able to finish her task in time so we all offer assistance. We help her sort though the items in her cart. I thought it was going rather well till a portal opened up and a devil steps from its boundaries. “Why can’t you people do anything right?!” He shouts and raves as he charges for us. Never fought a devil before. I’d like to try.
Layton von Sepra
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Post by Aileen on Jul 19, 2020 13:42:57 GMT -5
Our foray into warehousing in the tropics started poorly, but after I joined the other cleric in groveling to the devil and Layton smote... smited it, we quickly help with the rest of the job. It’s clear that they make horrible knockoff items and brand it with Acquisitions Incorporated logos to make us look bad. Brilliant, but dickish.
I’m happy to receive a free matching t-shirt and underwear set for payment, and I’m sure Drexler will be too. The cleric also shows us to the next portal, which we go through. This time we are in a ship’s study, and I’m sure we have finally reached the Maverick. A suavely dressed lizardman sits at a desk, and looks up as we appear.
“Who are you?” He asks.
The others start chatting him up while avoiding giving our names while I heal Layton.
“Kerata, do you need healing?” I ask, then mentally kick myself when I say her name. I turn to Brakus and try to cover it up. “I call her that because it sounds like carrot cake, and she’s just so... sweet.”
“Ah, carrot cake,” he grins. “It’s simply a vessel for cream cheese frosting! Terrible when they put raisins into it.”
“Ugh! Who does that?!” I gag.
“Anyway, enough about carrot cake,” he claps his scaly hands together. “Tell me, friends. What do you aspire to be? What do you want to be when you grow up?”
“I want to be the boss!” I say, catching on to whatever spiel he is pitching.
“Of your own franchise?”
“Hell yeah!”
“And how is it working for Omin Dran?” He asks, and I can tell he sees the worry in all our faces. “Yes, I know who you all are. I’ve been watching you.”
I clear my throat, and relax a little.
“They’re dicks.” I say.
“Are they? Even Jim Darkmagic?”
“Nah, Jim’s cool.”
“Yeah, we like Jim.” Kerata agrees.
He then tells us the “truth” about Dran Enterprises’ involvement in all we have experienced. They’re not the ones killing off Acq Inc, they are just taking over the failed franchises. As for the murders and horrible things happening, he thinks the group called The Six is involved. The tentacle face following us is one of them. They’re trying to get all the parts of the Orrery, and there’s another in the Horn Enclave called the Wheel of Stars. He has some of them too.
“I will give you the next pieces if you defend me, I believe they will be showing up... sort of, now.”
Suddenly Tentacle Face appears through the portal behind us, flanked by guards. Brakus starts fumbling for the piece behind his desk.
“Hello, peasants!” Greets Tentacle Face, twirling his tentacle-stach.
“Don’t let them kill me!” Hisses Brakus.
We form up, ready for battle, and I release my angelic powers. My wings of light unfurl, and I rise up five feet in the air, ready to kick some Illithid ass. And then he stares at all of us, doing some strange thing with his head. My mind is filled with a loud droning sound, and I feel like my head is in a vice. The headache gets so bad, everything goes black, and I die.
“Abby, wake up!”
I blink my eyes, and Layton is slapping me gently.
“I’m not Abby.” I groan, and then realize I can’t move.
“Ah, you’re stunned. I’m sure it will wear off soon.”
He leaps over me as I lay there helpless and blood coming out of my nose and ears, and watch as he and Drexler fight him. I want in!
Finally I feel life return to my limbs, and pull myself off the ground. I get a good line of sight just as the mind flayer grabs Drexler with his tentacles and raises him up off the ground. Drexler goes limp, and my heart hammers in my chest. If this guy dominates him he will eat his brain. I can’t let that happen- I love Drexler!
“Let my Drexler go, you octopus b****!”
I guiding bolt him, and Kerata makes her move. Silvery white blood splatters the walls and us as Tentacle Face dies! Layton sees to Drexler as I fly over to Brakus to check on him.
“You’re an angel!” He sighs, setting another piece that looks like it goes with the Orrery on his desk. “Literally.”
We are all okay, and I think I scare Kerata when I grab her demon face and plant a big kiss on her forehead for saving Drexler. I’m sure it won’t be long before she kills me for calling her Karrot Kake from now on.
We part ways with Brakus with some gifts and more parts of the Orrery, and end up back in Luskan. Gathering up Wizzy and Talanatha we make the long trek back to Phandalin. I leave a message with my parents as we pass Neverwinter, and hope they get it. It’s clear that working for Acq Inc is dangerous, more so than I thought, and I want them to know I am alright for now and that I’ve found a guy I want to eventually bring home. I’m sure at this point they have turned my old bedroom into a smoking room or something.
We arrive back to our Headquarters, and our Majordomo is beyond excited. We are now a rank two franchise! The manor is looking fabulous with all the work that has been going on in our absence, and we even have nice bedrooms to crash in. Drexler and I decide to share a large one, and just push two beds together for now until we can upgrade. Kerata of course picked the room next door. I think next we need to look into soundproofing.
We gain some more information on the Horn Enclave, our potential next stop, during our downtime. They hate Acq Inc, and it’s clearly because someone cough-Jim Darkmagic-cough slept with the Lord and Lady’s daughter, Rizwin. It’s also impossible to break into, and yet we have to get in there.
We’re all hanging out eating another lovely breakfast spread made by Layton when a man appears. He’s bald with a goatee wearing a business suit. Also with him is a cat wearing a monocle and licking himself. The cat glares at us, and I sneeze. Damned cats!
The man introduces himself as Flabbergast, from Home Office, and the cat is Mr. Snibbly. Flabbergast tells us about his plan to help us enter Horn Enclave, involving using a Dhargun Enterprises caravan to get in. Oh, but we won’t be traveling with them and going in the old fashioned way- because of course not!
“Have you ever heard of the ritual of astral transmogrification?” He asks.
“Yes.” I lie, rolling my eyes as I shovel waffles into my mouth.
“Ah, good!”
“I’m kidding, I have no idea what you’re talking about.” I finish.
The cat glares at me, and I can feel my throat starting to close up. Damned thing needs to leave, it’s condescending and I am highly allergic. It was hard enough traveling with a tabaxi!
He explains the ritual, and the gist of it is we are going to take a nap and our consciousnesses are going to possess the bodies of some dwarves in the Dhargun caravan to gain access.
So, we do the ritual, with no idea who we are going to end up as. I reluctantly lay down between Drexler and Kerata, and drift off as Flabbergast mutters a spell. I can only pray that the cat doesn’t go anywhere near me.
I open my eyes and I’m sitting in a carriage, which rolls to a halt. I feel... smaller, yet strong. I look down and the first thing I see is some pretty great cleavage. I’m a bit disappointed I didn’t possess the body of a man, I was looking forward to being able to pee standing up.
The carriage doors are opened, and some dwarves and I exit and walk to the massive stone doors which have been opened by two iron golems. A young dwarf woman with red hair who I assume is Rizwin greets us.
“Welcome, Gwendolyn!” She comes to me and gives me a kiss on the cheek.
Ah, so I’m the bride. The dwarf next to me is Tannus, my husband to be, then. And the older woman must be my mom. But who are they, really?!
We are lead through the Hall of War to the vaults, where apparently our wedding gifts are being placed until after the ceremony. I can see that the tiles on the floor are being rearranged, and we also pass a huge construct covered in horrifying blades and saws. Rizwin tells us that will kill anyone that tries to break into the vaults while she is going over the strict itinerary. She makes it very clear that we must remain with our group at all times and must stick to the itinerary. I’m starting to worry we won’t be able to do what we came to do.
As our gifts are loaded in, and the keys given to Gorat and Thoman the head of security, we are joined by a wizard.
“I am Ironbeard. Where is the happy couple?”
I approach, as does Tannus. The wizard smiles.
“I wish you all the happiness! Now, I need you to tell me your password for the vault, and only the couple may know it.”
He takes us into a private corner while my “mom” cranes her neck to follow us.
“The password is chastity!” She calls. That has to be Arkenfeld!
“What is the password, my dear?” Whispers the wizard. “You two decide and then let me know.”
I whisper into my betrothed’s ear, and hope to give him a clue in case he is possessed by one of our crew.
“I was green with envy of all the other girls until now,” I hint. “Password- ‘Consummate.”
I go to the wizard and whisper in his ear.
“The password is ‘consummate’.”
The old wizard blushes, and clears his throat.
“Very well, and so it is.”
Ironbeard inspects the vaults with a monocle thing, and looks satisfied. We are told that the doors to the vaults will remain open until the ceremony, and after that the password will have to be spoken by either Tannus or I to open them. Both keys are also needed, and I can only hope they are in possession of my party members.
Our first activity on the itinerary is drinks in the tavern at 11:30, and it is now that time. We head there, and I sit at a table with my betrothed and my “best friend” and maid of honor, Rala.
“I’m just going to... slither on over to the bar. Would you like a drink, my bride?” Tannus asks. It’s Layton!”
Oh, Selûne, I’m marrying Layton! This is horrible! Drexler will be so upset... but then again, we are just posing as these people. I have to go through with this, because I can’t ruin these dwarves lives!
We have food and drinks, and it’s a great time, but I have no idea who anyone really is save for Layton and maybe Arkenfeld. Amara turns to Tannus/Layton as he slides in next to me and hands me a drink.
“If you touch my daughter you have another thing coming for you, young man!” She threatens. Definitely Arkenfeld!
As we are sitting there, Rala stands up and goes over to the best man- Gorat.
“If you wanna see how slutty I can really be, take me out back.”
Woah! Looks like they’re going to hook up. Must not be either of my party. Well, maybe Kerata. They go off, and don’t come back for a few minutes. Other than us dwarves, there is a tabaxi in the tavern sitting with some chests under her table. I’m pleased to find out that I don’t need to sneeze and I can breathe just fine being in her presence! She keeps to herself.
After drinks, we go back to our respective quarters to get ready for the ceremony in two hours. I go sit on the bed as Layton/Tannus follows me in, and soon we are joined by Amara, Rala and Gorat. They’re awkward, but soon everyone starts revealing their true selves.
“I’m Drexler!” Says Rala.
My heart drops. Anger runs through my veins as it is revealed that Gorat is Kerata. It was Rala that made the move on Gorat... DREXLER seduced Kerata!
“You f***ed Kerata?!” I growl, shaking.
“What?! No! I just woke up here! We laid down, and he did the ritual... and now I’m in this body!”
“Drexler, you went off with Gorat! Said you wanted to show him how slutty you could be!”
I’m reduced to tears, heartbroken that Drexler would cheat on me in the body of a dwarf. And now I have to marry Layton! This could not get any worse!
“Alastrine, I promise you I would not do that. And why would I want to get with a male dwarf?” He laughs, hugging me. Wow, he’s got great boobs too! “Besides- check this out!”
Rala/Drexler stands back, and suddenly he is Drexler! Then Rala again.
“I’m not actually Rala- I’m a shapeshifter!” He announces.
“Yeah, and you stole my key!” Snaps Gorat/Kerata.
“Sorry again, I was not aware of what was happening.” He wipes my tears away. “Can’t have puffy eyes for your wedding, Aly. I mean Gwendolyn.”
“You and Layton need to practice your kiss!” Gorat/Kerata says. I gag.
“Wow.” Comes a voice from the hallway, followed by a slow, sarcastic clap.
We all turn and see we left the door open, and the tabaxi is standing there. She comes in and closes the door behind her.
“So there’s five of you and you’ve been using ten different names.”
“S***.”
She grins, crossing her arms as she leans against the door.
“The names Two Dry Cloaks.” She says, tapping one clawed finger on her arm as she takes us all in. “I know none of you are who you are pretending to be. You need to act more like dwarves.”
“Excuse me?” Amara sneers.
“Except for you. You I believe.”
Amara/Arkenfeld smiles.
“Does the name Omin Dran sounds familiar?” She asks us.
“Yes!” I whisper. “We’re going steady.”
“I sincerely doubt that,” she laughs.
“Not me, but us... we have a franchise.”
She goes on and tells us that she is here because she wants to put something in the vaults for a religious order, and has the feeling we are here to get something out.
“Any of you casters?” She asks, pulling out a scroll. “It’s stone-shape.”
I raise my hand, and she hands it to me. I’m a little worried that I may not be able to use any magic in this body, however.
“Use this to make a door into the vault. But be warned- they absolutely hate Acq Inc here. They will kill you if they find out or you are caught. You see that construct when you came in? You’ll be rolled over by that big slashy thing at least seventeen times.”
We part ways when it’s time to get ready, and I pray that we are able to execute our plan. We are going to try to get into the vaults after the ceremony, when everyone is gathered in the same room. I’m in a panic as I do my hair and makeup with Gorat/Kerata’s help, but her man hands are not doing a great job. Finally I just throw my long, thick and curly dwarves locks into a classy updo, and then get dressed.
I do look beautiful, and I hope that I can give this poor girl the best wedding possible. I’m a little sad for her that she is not present for her own wedding. This whole thing is a little messed up, but if it gets us what we need then so be it.
“I don’t want to marry Layton!” I whine, as we are all getting ready to leave.
“Am I really so bad?” He snaps.
“No, but you’re not Drexler. Not that I’m ready to get married, but... you know?!”
“Well, it’s not actually Layton. Just try to think of it as... a theatre performance. You’re actors playing a couple.” Says Rala/Drexler.
We go to the chapel, and Tannus/Layton and I stand at the back as Jormun gives a speech about battle prowess, marriage and home. Suddenly everyone is quiet and staring at us.
“It’s time to go up, you two!” Whispers one of the guests.
“Oh!” I grab Tannus/Layton’s hand, and we awkwardly proceed up the aisle. The poor man is shaking like a leaf, which doesn’t help my nerves at all.
The audience laughs, and I hear whispers about how nervous we look. Finally we reach the altar, and stand facing each-other. I’m pretty sure I’m going to puke or faint, and try to breathe myself through this.
“And now it is time to say your vows!” Announces Jormun.
“You first, Darling!” I tell Tannus/Layton.
“Dear, you don’t always want to let the man go first,” says Jormun. “Unless you want a quiet evening.”
Layton does his speech, and it is surprisingly heartfelt and beautiful. I can see some guests wiping tears away.
“Not what we rehearsed, but still lovely. And Gwendolyn?”
I take a deep breath, and muster all of my non-existent acting ability. Looking deep into Tannus/Layton’s eyes, I begin my speech.
“Tannus, my love, I am so happy to finally marry you. You are my love and my light, you are my earth and sky. My love for you grows wide and long,” oops, too sexual. “I promise to be faithful and love you from this day until my last day.”
Now even more people are crying. Guess we nailed it. Oh, Gwendolyn, I hope I did you justice!
“I now pronounce you husband and wife!” Jormun announces.
The hall erupts in cheers, and we proceed to the hall for dinner. Tannus/Layton and I enter hand in hand and greet our guests, and then I nudge him.
“Time to go, I saw ‘Mom’ leave!” I whisper.
To my utmost surprise, Tannus/Layton sweeps me off my feet. I giggle, playing along.
“Now if you’ll excuse us- we are going to make this marriage official! We will be back soon!”
“I’m all riled up!” I laugh, grabbing his beard and kissing him roughly.
The crowd laughs and cheers, and Tannus gets some pats on the back as he carries me out. We breathe a sigh of relief as we make it to the hallway, heading for the bridal suite. I can only hope that the rest of our mission goes this smoothly!
🌗Alastrine / Gwendolyn 🌸
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Post by kynigoskerata on Jul 19, 2020 19:16:34 GMT -5
Well, this has been an entirely bad idea. Better to seige the place down, and YES I KNOW sieging a dwarven fortress is basically impossible. Still better then being caught in the body of a dwarf. All this hair and stunty anger. It adds too much to my usual anger! The others seem to be taking this fairly well, hopefully. I know enough to know we need a few level headed bilge rats to keep us afloat. Drex and Al are the most sane. I keep Lay off that only because not feeling emotion is not in any way healthy. Even I know this.
Still, could be worse. I could be a wrinkled old biddy, like Arky. That was hilarious. The look on his face as he plays the old... lady.
I can't wait to find that stupid Orry piece and get out of here. I wish we had time or the ability to raid a few vaults but beggars and choosers and all that.
We also have increased our standing within the company, which means we get an upgrade of our quarters! And more minions, I mean umm... ah right! Valued members of our employ. See everyone, I am learning. I'm thinking of a giant flying pirate, a private dream of mine. Al's idea of a sheep carriage has merit though. I hope we can hire Two Dry as well. I've been wanting to set up a smuggling business and she would help out a lot when I'm not there to handle it. Don't tell anyone else. Goody two shoes the lot of them.
Yo ho and to future bottles of rum. This is Kerata Shortsails signing off.
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