Sundered Lands 58

The Sundered Lands of Palladium

Session 58
July 17 - August 5, 2017

Planning for a Trip

November 1st

Warning Essanos

Lavinia and the gathered companions make their plans to warn Essanos of the possible impending danger from the Savage Fever. Some ideas that have been floated about are going to the Dawn Council directly, contacting the Witch Wardens and alerting the local druids as well. 

Seeker eyes the team. “Based on what Brother and I have encountered, I think that Val, Silver, and Arn would do well going with Lavinia to talk to the Witch Wardens and Dawn Council. The folk here seem to distrust Wolfen. I could go talk to the druids, I guess. Sindri, you can give an eyewitness account of the terrible events at Kraken Cove to support the team. Ered, where do you see yourself fitting into all of this?”

Ered looks at Seeker with a quizzical look. “I go find Temple. Get sleep. Meditate.” With that he nods to everyone and smiles. He lingers near Silver for a moment, gazing upon her sparkling draconic scales. He bows slightly to her then walks on out the door. He stops and looks back over his shoulder, “Thanks to you,” he says and smiles before disappearing.

Lavinia speaks up again, “It has been a long couple of days, we have all been through a lot, let us rest and recover tonight before undertaking more stressful responsibility. Thank you all for your continued help and protection. I am sure I would not be here without your help.” She turns to Valinya and touches her arm softly. “Thank you again, so very much, for coming to my rescue. Thank you for saving Korra and driving those vile frogmen out of the manor. I am sorry that your big companion, Hrag, did not make it. I am sorry.” Tears fall from Lavinia’s eyes as she hugs the Elf sorceress.

Valinya keeps the hug a moment before holding Lavinia at arm’s length. “I’m glad I was able to help. I only wish I had come sooner. I’m truly sorry for all the losses.”

The druid considers how to address the problem and says, “First tonight I’ll hold council with my elders at the Bronzewood Lodge. The zombie worm infestation there that killed off Sings to Moon’s pack was similar in how it spread quickly through any species it infected - made the victims go crazy and attack everything around them and infected those they wounded. This at least can be cured - that couldn’t, but they managed to contain it and I believe wipe it out before it spread, so they should be able to offer advice on how to do the same here. Hopefully they can help contact others here in the region as well. I’ll be dreamwalking at night but able to help with things some during the day.” He looks at Lavinia and says, “I’m sorry miss but I think your neighbors are going to be a little irritable for a while. . .” He then turns to Valinya and asks, “Sis, we may need your insight in this - you know how to heal the fever and other healers may have questions for you that I won’t know how to answer. Please don’t be alarmed if we appear in your dreams these next few nights. It can take a little getting used to but it’s a very useful way to communicate over great distance.”

Valinya nods and says, “I am glad to explain what I can, though my form of weaving magic might not translate well into other styles. But anything I can do to help.”

Moonscar sets up his tent, draws his symbols, lays down and begins his ritual. Sings to Moon takes up a spot just outside the tent flap, as she commonly does when Moonscar is inside. The Kankoran Druid lays there, speaking the words and going through the motions of gathering the spirits he needs in order to Dreamwalk back to Bronzewood Lodge. Unfortunately, the spirits do not seem to be very helpful this evening. After close to 3 hours of trying, Moonscar finally gives up, realizing that tonight, this ritual will not happen. Dejected, he closes his eyes and goes to sleep.

November 2nd

A Busy Day Ahead

Moonscar wakes up the next morning feeling horrible. He experienced terrifying nightmares involving all his companions and loved ones, all infected with an extreme form of Savage Fever which included death by burning. The worst part was that Moonscar was the one infecting them all by smashing them in the head with an endless supply of Shadow Pearls! He tries to shake it as he rises and greets the day, but just cannot do it.

Seeker also experienced strange dreams during the night. He imagined being back in the north, near Nesme, hiking through the hills and forests of the area. He saw many of the rangers and hunters he had encountered there, though none of them paid him any mind as they seemed to be very busy and involved with something that Seeker could not figure out. Strangely, when Seeker awoke, he had some thistles stuck in the fur around his ankles.

Everyone else sleeps comfortably enough, though the thought of all the dead bodies to clean up this morning makes everyone just a bit uneasy. The large form of Hrag is going to be a difficult situation to deal with. And explaining the deaths of Red and her work crew may prove difficult to the authorities and their families.

Korra is busy putting together some food for breakfast and Lavinia is in the kitchen helping her, trying to keep the sadness from her face. Unfortunately, it seems as if the house itself, or at least all the dreadful things that have happened here recently, makes her sad. “Good morning, everyone,” she says with a false joy while bringing in a tray of fruit. “We have a busy day ahead of us, don’t we.” Her eyes dart to the nearby window that faces the small courtyard where Hrag’s large, black form can still be seen slumped near the small stream. Valinya noticeably sits so that her back is to the courtyard and does not look out there at all.

Seeker returns from his morning run as the breakfast commences. He bows slightly to Korra and takes a plate of Essanos breakfast to sit in a corner as the rest of the team assembles.



He rumbles his thoughts as he eats. He nods to Lavinia. “We do, indeed, ma’am.” He chews for a moment, his huge jaws and teeth making quick work of a small steak. “It seems like someone should go talk to the Watch as soon as possible. Once they are brought in, they will want to inspect the scene of the battle.” He clears his throat. “After that, they can help us take care of our fallen comrades.” He gets quiet as he reflects on their loss, and for a while the only sounds from Seeker involve chewing and swallowing.

Valinya remains quiet, eating slowly… but steadily as one plate then another disappears. Finally she gives a sigh. “I think I might, among other things, give some time to divining how we might be able to slow or avert a potential outbreak of the vile disease. It could be that I get a vision of a potential carrier and we can go prevent it from reaching here or spreading. If it does come, it could cause unimaginable chaos, especially given how rapidly it acts.”

Seeker sucks the marrow out of one last bone and ponders Valinya’s words. “Seems to me that the disease starts with the Shadow Pearl. Find the source of them, stop them, and the disease is not an issue.”

Valinya pauses before replying. “Maybe. It may have a magical origin but could easily be it’s own creation now, independent of needing to be sustained by some magic. Something like a thing that is summoned or created but doesn’t need constant magic to keep it around. I’d rather hedge on being careful.”

Seeker shrugs. “Makes sense. Sounds like a worthy project. Please let me know if I can assist you in it.” He stands and stretches. “I have some resupplying to accomplish before we leave. Should I tackle that this morning, be out of the manor when the guard arrives, or would you like me to stay for that? Lavinia?”

Silver, having shifted into her elven form first thing in the morning, seems interested in Seeker’s idea. “If you’d like company, I would prefer to stay clear of the guard as well.”

The rather haggard Kankoran gives up picking at his breakfast (he’d been chewing his tail at least as much as his food) and replies morosely, “I should go with you too. I need to pick up my knife from the enchanter’s.” He reaches out to lay his paw on Valinya’s hand saying softly, “Sis, I could sing the Resting Song or a more general farewell for our friend. I could also speak to him and ask what he would want since we don’t know his people’s customs. Let me know what you think.”

After finishing her meal Valinya slowly heads out towards the body of the slain Hrag. Steeling herself she forces herself to honor him by carefully looking at him. She stands there quite awhile, lost in thought before nodding to herself. Taking a deep breath and keeping her eyes fixed on Hrag’s remains she sings …

Valinya finishes her new song and a large, fur and spike covered gorilla type creature appears in the courtyard. It is a Grimbor, not Hrag, but very similar to him. The morning sun glints off it's purple tinged fur. It looks around and settles its gaze on Valinya, waiting for her to give him some instruction. Though this creature looks like Hrag, it does not seem to have the same intelligent spark in its eyes.

Seeker acquiesces to Silver’s company, and the two set out for the market. “I believe you crossed paths with a magic shop before. Could we go there first? I have some items that would be best identified before we attempt to sell them.”

Heading to Glittermane's

Seeker and Silver head out toward Glittermane’s Vault. Moonscar hurries out of the death filled Vanderboren Manor and follows them. As they leave, Arn shouts out after them, “Hey Seeker, make sure you bring back a receipt for that stuff! You are still over on your share of the loot from the other day!” The Dwarf goes back inside and finds some ale before beginning the depressing work of dragging dead bodies around.

As the three companions make their way through the morning market, they experience numerous incidents of nearby but unseen folk shouting things like “Go home, Wolfen!”, “Your kind isn’t welcome here!”, and “Furries are evil!” Many folk sneer and give nasty looks and glares as they hurriedly get out of the way of the walking trio. The feelings of Wolfen (and Kankoran) being welcome in Essanos have greatly diminished this morning. Though no one directly confronts the group, there are several times when a rock, stick or rotten piece of fruit comes flying their way out of the crowd.

Not every citizen in the market is being hateful toward the Canines. There are many sad and downcast eyes in the crowd while the majority just turns away quickly, avoiding making eye contact.

Eventually, they make it to Glittermane’s Vault and Silver rings the bell. After a few minutes, a large illusion of a Gnome’s face appears in front of the door. “Hey, what? Who’s there? I’m very busy today. Very busy. Oh, my dear Silver, how do you do? Good to see you again so soon. What can I do for you? Oh, I see you have some friends with you. Wolfen friends. Hmm.”

Glittermane agrees to identify the items, though has to charge an extra fee to jump them to the front of his work load. For 1200$, he will identify the 7 magical items. He does freely identify one potion as Alchemist Fire and the Smoke Bomb, both taken off of Rowyn Kellani. The other items he finds very interesting and explains them as follows:

• 2 Major Healing Potions valued at 350$ each
• Spellstone-Body of Air valued at 460$
• Wand of Charm Person 5 charges (20 total) valued at 65070$ Recharge Cost 2400$
• Wand of Create Stone 5 charges (20 total) valued at 29470$ Recharge Cost 2000$
• Varandil, The Stalwart Blade Enchanted Balanced Fine Large Falchion Kigante’s sword valued at 19000$,
• Devil’s Grace Enchanted Balanced Fine Edged Rapier Javell’s sword valued at 23000$

He offers to buy the wands and swords for 60% of their given value.

After leaving the Vault, the trio stops by and sells the jewelry and other valuables to a nearby merchant netting nearly 20,000$ more!

Cleaning up the Mess

Back at the manor, Arn, with the help of Valinya’s magical Grimbor, begins moving the bodies of the deceased for better disposal. It has been decided that Hrag should have a hero's funeral and his body should be burned. That can be done at nightfall right there in the courtyard. Arn and the magically created Grimbor begin cleaning up the dead bodies. Kora, Lavinia’s Gnome servant, begins cleaning up inside the manor.

Valinya was pleased with her new spell and the Grimbor servant. What he lacked in real intelligence he made up for with actually understanding the common tongue and no qualms about following her instructions. While having him do work she tried to assess the limits of his strength and coordination as well as running him through some practice combat using the boggard bodies. Might as well get some use out of them.

Arn and the magical Grimbor work hard to clean the mess in the manor up. A short while later, the guards show up, summoned by Lavinia. They take the bodies of the boggards and dispose of them and also take custody of the bodies of the work crew, promising to inform pertinent other parties if possible. They leave the body of Hrag there and give their blessings for a funeral pyre that evening.

Once the guards arrive and Arn is relieved of duty, he requests a break from his friends so that he can make his way to the armorer’s to do some repairs to his equipment before they make their way off to any new adventures.

Alerting the Authorities

Lavinia heads out with Valinya and Sindri the Gnome to alert the city guard and to try to talk to the Dawn Council and Witch Wardens about the many threats to the city.

She leads the way from the manor to the nearest Guard Station.

Valinya says, “We’re here to support you … just let us know if you need us to say or do anything.”

Lavinia leads Valinya and Sindri to first the guard station then over to Castle Teraknian to warn the Dawn Council. They are very appreciative and thankful for the warning. They then stop at the Witchwardens and Valinya explains what she knows to some of the mages there. They also thank them and say they will do what they can to protect the city and its citizens.

Come Together

Later that evening, everyone comes back together with their work for the day done. Everyone has gathered up their commissioned items from the various craftsmen that were working on them. Some coin has been gathered for sold loot and the authorities of Essanos have been warned. It feels that the general feeling in the city toward Wolfen (and Kankoran, those nightblind can’t tell the difference!) had taken a dive. Tomorrow the group plans to introduce Lavinia to Captain Tahir and planning for the voyage south will begin in earnest.

Cast of Characters: 

Arne J plays Seeker, a teenage Wolfen Warlord

Stephen K plays Valinya, an Elven Wildsong Mage

Mike B plays Arn, a surly Dwarven Warrior

Amergin O'K plays Moonscar, the esoteric Kankoran Druid

Daniel W plays Silver, a young and curious Dragon
Mike W plays Sindri Fetzil, an a Gnome rogue and alchemist
and Jason GURPS as the GM

Wandered Roads 49

Wandered Roads of Varisia
Session 49
May 19, 2018

Campaign Timeline

Out of the Swamp

Moonday 15th Neth

After three days (Neth 12-14th) of rest, recover and truce-making with the remaining Grey Maidens, the group is ready to make their way out of the Lady’s Light and back to Magnimar. It takes nearly a whole day to trace their steps back out of the immense magical structure, taking time to gather up several stashes of loot that had been hidden along the way. The Grey Maidens have agreed to help carry all the amassed treasure out for a share of it. Orianna has stated that she plans to recommit the Grey Maidens to working for good and abandoning their misplaced goal of retaking the city of Korvosa.


Finally, late in the day, the group makes their way back to to the tunnel in the back of the hydra’s lair. To their dismay, they see that the many-headed dragon snake creature has returned and appears to have regenerated from it’s many wounds. Realizing that there will be no way to sneak everyone past the beast with all the treasure in tow, a plan is quickly put together to either kill or drive the beast off once again. 

The battle with the hydra, even with the additional help from Oriana and some of the Grey Maidens, is difficult and several come near to death, but in the end, the multi-headed monstrosity, Gegganallag, is killed as it attempts to escape once again into the swampy lake nearby. Exhausted and sore, the troop decides to camp once again in the Cavern of Many Mouths, feeling that no one would bother them in a place with such a dangerous reputation. 

The group plans for their extraction from the swamp and Daellin comes across an interesting idea, realizing that they have another source of treasure laying on the marshy ground outside the cave. The Elf proposes that he uses his magic to quickly transport himself back to Magnimar to contract with company to come retrieve the hydra’s body and provide safe passage back to the city because it would take their group far too long to trudge through the Mushfens with all the loot they are carrying. 

This plan seems sound and Daellin leaps far into the air and seems to bounce from cloud to cloud, quickly disappearing in the overcast sky. The rest of the group works on digging up the buried treasure that was left here at the hydra’s lair after their first encounter with the beast. Initially they had planned on heading to the coast and waiting on Daellin and his ship to return, but it started raining and everyone agreed that waiting in the cave near the hydra was best since nothing would be done without retrieving that.

Toilday 16th of Neth

Daellin finds himself back in Magnimar within moments, thanks to his Cloud Hopping spell and quickly makes his way to the Pathfinder Manor in hopes that Sheila Heidmarch can help him locate the people that might be interested in recovering an entire hydra corpse. She does lead him to the right people and within the next few days, they are sailing south to the Lady’s Cape.

Fireday 19th of Neth

The hydra retrieval crew finally arrives and they quickly and efficiently make it ready to travel. The beast and the group is loaded onto their ship and they make their way back to Magnimar.

Starday 20th of Neth

Back in Magnimar, the group make quick work dividing and selling the loot and make their way to Heidmarch Manor to speak to the Pathfinders about their recent exploits. Sheila suggests that Kallin call upon the power of the Shard to help locate the next one. He does so and finds that the next Shard is located somewhere within the City of Strangers, also known as Kaer Maga, some 600 miles to the east on the edge of the Storval Plateau. She tells the group she can help arrange passage to the City of Strangers if they can keep bringing her reports and info on the Shards and where they were located. She tells them she has a riverboat pilot that can make the trip in 2 week as opposed to closer to 2 months on foot or likewise. She sends them on their way and tells them to meet her in the upcoming week for more details.

Session Pics

Session Notes

A good wrap up session, getting us from one major campaign arc and on to the next one!

Characters Present:

Kallin Hawkril, Half-Orc shaman and budding Priest of Pharasma - played by +Daniel Ernst
Calina - Varisian Human archer and scout - played by +Carol Coburn
Daellin Silvanthalas, Elven Farstrider Ranger - played by +Ben Lipe
Samad Aldhul, Human ex-mercenary - played by +JeCorey Holder
Alistar Gavin Lourdis, Human Mageknight- played by Don K
Ehlyna Fuzziface - Dwarven Warrior - currently played by Malcolm G

and +Jason Woollard as the DM

Sundered Lands 20.1

The Sundered Lands of Palladium

Session 20.1
July 7-13

A Dwarf and an Ellyl walk into a Marketplace...

Saturday October 23

Strolling the Market

Link Back to Sundered Lands #20 - Turmoil in Essanos

Once they are out of the manor and on their way to the front gates Fortis realizes their group may draw too much attention and linger too long in the memory. “Perhaps it would be best if we were not so remarkable a pair.” Fortis thinks for a moment. “Dwarves are known to travelin clans if I recall correctly.” A moment later a sturdy Dwarf is standing next to Arn right where Fortis had been hovering immediately before. “Good day to you brother” he says in an extremely gruff voice “My name is Frump Basalt, from up near Deeprose Gorge. It will be a pleasant day trading with you at my side friend Arn.” With that unexpected twist Frump snaps his fingers for Brutus to follow and they tread through the archway into the city street.

Fortis as Frump

Arn steps back a moment to take in Fortis in his new guise.   “Hrrrmmmm, I think this is finally something ye got right.  Ye almost look right like a nice young clan dwarf from the mining guild or merchant guild.”    

As the companions approach the market their eyes, ears and nostrils are assaulted by all manner of sensations, from oddly appealing unidentifiable animal bits grilling on smoking hibachis to the dung of passing oxen and everything in between seems to fight for attention. Hawkers crying the uniqueness of their identical wares compete so shout louder than their neighbors, adding to the impressive din. Their first stop is a weasley looking trader hawking ‘Gear and goods for the discriminating gentleman of fortune’ out of a modest storefront near the fountain in the first square of the market. The balding man greets Arn and Frump as they walk through the doorway from the plaza outside “Welcome to my emporium, I am Malcom Gladwell, owner and proprietor of this establishment, how can I address your equipment needs this fine morning?”

“Hail there and well met Malcom.   My companion and I have come into possession a quantity of some slightly ‘used’ goods we  no longer have any need for.   We were hoping that you would be willing to discuss sale or trade.”

                                                     

After a moment Fortis interjects. “We have a number of items and, knowing your reputation as an honest broker even though we have only been resident a short while, we thought it best to offer you first pick of the lot.”

Lavinia's wheelbarrow

Malcolm steps over toward the pair of Dwarves and smiles, “You are too kind, brother Dwarf. Thank you thank you.” He steps outside to look at the merchandise in the wheelbarrow. He eyes Brutus cool then examines the pile of weapons. “Hmm. Well used I see. I always say battle tested is the only way to go! Looks like you're not ones to maintain your weapons very well. Hmm. I'll give you 500 silver for the lot, including the wheelbarrow.” He folds his fingers together and smiles out of the corner of his mouth.

Fortis looks the man over and notices that he bears a few items of magical quality. One ring on each hand and a bit of a necklace tucked under his shirt have the telltale glow of enchantment.

A Thief and an Oath

While he is distracted by the magic items, Fortis misses a dirty young man slinking up nearby. A loud crash follows as the man grabs a cutlass handle that had been sticking out of the pile. Swords and axes fall to the cobbled street as the thief absconds with the weapon.

Arn starts to counter offer Malcom as the thief makes good on his escape.   “This lot is worth far more than…...Wat the heck?”   Arn turns and see’s the thief go for the sword in an attempt to make off with the cutlass. Arn reaches out to fast-draw his enchanted “bat mace” and as the mace appears in his hands, he hurls it at the thief, aiming for his legs.  

The thief goes down with the sound of his scream overshadowed by a cracking sound that comes from his mangled leg. He lays on the street moaning and writhing in pain as a crowd gathers around.

Malcolm gasps and quickly retreats back into his shop to watch from the shadows of the doorway.

Frump strides over to the little thief with the crippled leg. “This appears to be an uncomfortable situation for you young man. I expect you are going to have a tough time in prison with only one working leg. It appears to be beyond my ability to repair. I wonder…  would you prefer that I have you take an oath of obedience to that warrior whose rightly won spoils you attempted to purloin and then I heal you as best I can, which will probably still leave you lame, or do you think you would rather take your chances in the cell with the other miscreants? What is your name by the way?”

Fedik the Unfortunate

“Fedik,” the prone man blurts out between cries of pain. “Yes, yes Master Dwarf. Many apologies. My family is in a cart one island over. It's got a broken wheel. I just needed some money for food and to pay a wheelwright to repair it. I'll do whatever, please just fix my leg. Owww!” Fedik rolls over, gripping his crippled leg.

‘Kneeling’ down next to the distressed thief Frump looks him squarely in the eye. “Well Fedik, I’ve got a bunch of questions I’m going to need answers to, and maybe a few things my brother Dwarf will need taken care of to compensate him for his need to become violent with you. He is gentle soul and has a strong distaste for bludgeoning the weak and the foolish.” Frump’s pointed stare leaves no doubt about the object of his last sentence.

“I’ll consider fixing your leg to the best of my skill and letting you avoid incarceration if you will take a sufficiently binding Oath.” He wave Arn over. “Arn, how long would you think this lad here would need to fetch your ale and clean your armor to repay you for his transgressions against you?”

“I would say perhaps a fortnight should suffice,” the Dwarf says with a wry grin.

Frump raises his eyebrows at Arn’s lenience. “Well then, a fortnight for you, and a fortnight for me since healing spells are so exhausting.” The ‘dwarf’ looks down at Fedik and says “Repeat this oath exactly and I will do what I can for your leg…”

Fortis casts an Oath spell “I, Fedik, promise to never steal from Arn or his companions again, furthermore, as penance for my crime, I will serve my healer until the next full moon and then the warrior Arn for the fortnight following until the moon hides her face again. I will obey them in all things while in their service.” Frump pauses for Fedik to repeat the promise before dispensing any healing should the miscreant decide to accept the offer of clemency and service. After the young man gulps and repeats the oath Frump asks Arn to straighten the leg and Fortis casts a Major Healing spell on the injured thief. “Fedik, I will be asking you a number of questions in the next few days, and having you complete a number of tasks, but you should prepare for service with Arn as well, I suspect it will not be easy.”

After capturing the the thief, Arn will argue that the price is ¼ the value of what the items are.  Arn will counter for 50%, especially since they stopped a possible  robbery.   Arn and Malcom go back and forth a bit, and eventually settle upon a price that makes both happy.   Arn’s brutal stoppage of the thief no doubt played a hand in his favor.

                                                                  

Not having forgotten about the interesting jewelry Frump tries to get a better look at the rings and necklace. After concluding their haggling and agreeing on a price Frump admires the rings more openly “I must tell you those a some beautiful rings you are wearing, if you were ever inclined to describe their provenance I'd be delighted to hear the tale. Perhaps next time we are in to add to your stock you would consider it.”

Malcolm seems a bit put off by Frump’s questions about his personal belongings and does not speak of it but just nods and says “Next time,” and bids the two Dwarves farewell.

Back outside, Fedik sits against the wall of Malcom’s shop, Brutus standing over him, watching. The dirty young man holds his leg and sighs, “Don't think there's any way I'll be walking on this thing again. It's done for. Don't hurt too much anymore though, thanks to your wondrous magic.” The group prepares to move on to their next stop and Brutus hoists Fedik up and deposits him in the wheelbarrow with the remaining plunder.

Parting with Plunder and Purchasing Potions

The rest of the excursion is pleasant and Frump does his best to keep Arn happy along the way, even going so far as to stop into a local grog-house for an after breakfast nip of ale as they make their way between merchants. Frump turns to Arn and remarks “We should probably shop around a bit for our remaining sales, we can time the transaction for just before lunch time when the merchants will be anxious to close a deal and get to their mid-day meals, or perhaps are just returned from an early lunch and are leaden with full bellies.” Frump peers over at a man with a treadle wheel outside the ale house. “There looks like a possible buyer” Frump and Arn move into the view of the hard working Gnome behind the honing wheel. “Good Afternoon my friend, we have in our possession a few extra knives you may be interested in reselling at some point if we can agree on a fair price.” Now that I think about it, we probably should have come here first and let him work over the blades we were trying to sell and let him keep a few of the knives as payment. That probably would have been smart. I should remember that for next time. A brief bit of haggling later and the last knife is passed off to a new owner.

An occasional good deal and a few questionable exchanges leave them with a respectable haul equivalent to 120 gold coins, but in much smaller denominations of course, which quickly disappears into Arn’s lockbox. Once the last weapon is sold Frump instructs Brutus to leave the wheelbarrow with Arn so that the dwarf can help his new protege move around the city. The muscular servant acknowledges the order the only way he can “Brutus” and walks into a narrow alley and sitting down with his back against a wall. In less than a minute he simply vanishes, much to the bewilderment of Fedik. “And now, Arn, we can get a bite to eat and discuss the potions you wanted to shop for. Were you looking to cover a specific ability of did you intend to just browse and see what ideas struck you?”

“Aye there lad.” the dwarf blurts out.   “I’ve given thought, and I would like to have at least one healing potion, but would be open minded to nearly anything out there that could help us.  Something that could allow me to fly or levitate, or even swim, or become resistant to fire, or climb walls or something, even breathing fire like a dragon.” Arn looks around a bit.  “Having a Major healing potion will be good, take emergency pressure off of our healers.   I would like  a water-breathing potion as well.   I also think that some of the holy water and a vial or 2 of alchemist fire would do us nicely.”  

Frump looks at his companion “Far be it from me to dissuade you from lightening the burden on our healers Brother Dwarf, but when we are paying for single use items, how would you rate the relative importance of duplicate abilities and enhancements covering gaps in our group’s spell repertoire?”  The other ‘dwarf’ shrugs. “Either way we probably want to move along and attend to our business with the Witchwardens before the day progresses too far.  To look at the tally though, Water Breathing is $500, The Alchemist’s FIre is $100 each and Holy Water goes for $10 per vial. That seems pretty likely to be available. As for Fire resistance, the potions are $500 each, but for $5000 there was a cloak that would work repeatedly at Glittermane’s shop. As for breathing fire like a dragon, well we already know someone who can do that and besides, any potion like that is going to be very expensive, though I suspect it is possible to make if all of the ingredients were available.”

After their discussion Arn makes his purchases and the trio head out into the street again.

“I think before we conclude our day’s actions, we should get young Fedik here cleaned up and dressed properly. If he is going to serve me as a squire or assistant, he better be cleaned up a bit, and perhaps look into some leather armor and a suitable weapon for the lad. I’m not going to let him roam around with us outside the city unarmed. I could instruct him on using a mace, as it is a very simple weapon and doesn’t require as precise contact as a sword.”

Frump appears to enjoy the idea of preventing recidivism by having Fredrick learn a skill other than burglary, even if it is just smashing things with a metal stick. “Well, if you plan to take him as a squire and invest all this time and money in him don’t you want to know more about his background and loyalty first? Certainly he is brave… it cannot have been easy to work himself up to burgling two weapon laden warriors and a freakishly muscled porter carting around a wheelbarrow full of weapons. And the Fates and Furies know I have no cause to look down on someone doing something impulsive, but just make sure you aren’t disappointed if, after the Oath subsides, he declines to continue risking his life for our good company and your tutelage.” Frump smiles, indicating there is no malice in his caution to Arn. “I’m sure you don’t need me to help you with the training or the armor… wait a minute? I wonder… Arn, when we meet up again tonight I’d like to talk to you about everything you know regarding armor crafting. I have an idea that may save you a good bit of money if you put off buying him armor for a few days. Until then though, I’ll need my share of the profits before I go shopping, can you please divide out my portion?” After the real dwarf spends a few minutes sorting coins, the entire duration of which passes with Fedik watching in wide-eyed silent awe, Frump takes his leave of the Dwarven warrior and his new squire. “I’ll meet you back at the usual place.” he says before heading off to deal with the Witchwardens.

Arn and Fedik Get to Know Each Other

Arn bids “Frump” farewell and locks back up his money bag. Noticing the young lad’s reaction to the money, Arn comments to the human. “Ye see that lad? There used to be much more coin than that there. We’re behind on work and have many more missions to accomplish and much more treasure to find!”     

Fedik looks upon the dwarf, wide eyed in hope yet also in caution, as he still can remember the intense pain of the dwarf’s mighty mace plowing him to the ground. The boy knew the dwarf could have killed him instantly, yet chose to just stop him.    

Arn continues to speak with young Fedik. “Alright lad, we need to know more about ye since I spared yer life.  Frump mentioned that you were beardy enough to try and steal from a couple of armed dwarf’s and a large man.   That tells me either ye are brave, desperate, or stupid. Either one is a quality I can work with, I just need to know which one you are. Ye need to tell me where yer from, about yer family and why you were trying to steal from us.”

The dour dwarf takes a sip of ale from his skin, then continues on.  “After ye tell me about yourself, I will tell you about me, Arn Ironfist and my companions and some of our adventures.”

Fedik tells Arn about his rough life, growing up the son of a pirate and smuggler and a washer women he occasionally raped when he was in town. He knew only violence and self preservation. He, bound by his oath to serve Arn and Fortis, is truthful about his current situation, which is just above homeless. He squats with some others under a dock between the Merchant and Sunrise Districts. They survive by petty theft and begging. Fedik tells Arn he really has no family waiting for him though hate does suppose he may have some children around town. He admits he was stealing the sword to sell for flayleaf, an addictive substance that makes one “numb to the pain” and turns your teeth red. Fedik smiles a red-toothed grin. “Really could use me some o’ that flayleaf to help with the pain. Do ya know anyone that selling any? It’s cheap this time o’ year, weather’s been good, growing lots of it out there, I been hearing.” Fedik looks at Arn with the hungry eyes of an addict.

Arn looks down on the dour boy with pity. Totally forgetting the amount of injury he inflicted. “Oh lad, I’m sorry there….I forget my own strength at times, and I should have taken a less destructive way of stopping ye.” Arn scoops up the kid and puts him in the wheelbarrow.    “Okay there lad, here’s what I’m going to do, and this is normally against my grain, but I’m going to get ye fixed up and give ye a choice.”    

Arn asks Malcom for directions back towards the healers. He thanks him again, and Malcom nods as Arn carts off the injured Fedik.

Fedik gets a ride

As they make their way through the streets, Fedik winces in pain whenever they hit a bump in the streets. Still, the lad can not conceal his reactions towards Arn’s strength. Carting the boy along with armor and equipment isn’t even winding the dwarf one bit. Arn continues to talk on their way.   

“Well lad here’s the deal. Frump and my other companions will hold you to a magically bound oath. You will swear never to do ill towards me or my companions. You will not steal and you will tell the truth. Now I will give you a choice. You can be set free after serving me for a fortnight as my apprentice and squire. After that time, you can choose freedom, though I will warn you, that if I hear of you turning to a life of crime, I will hunt you down and dispatch justice on you personally. If you choose the other option, to serve as my squire and learn the way of the warrior and learn to defend the innocent and good of the lands. I will teach you how to fight and defend yourself, and my companions and I will teach you they way of adventure and the path to good deeds and glory. This choice I will leave to you, once your fortnight sentence to be my assistant is complete.  “

Arn continues his way to the Healer’s where he can proper healing for Fedik as well as his crippled leg.

Fedik listens with a wide eyed stare, but after a few minutes, Arn is unsure whether he is truly interested in what he has been saying or if it is just the stare of an addict craving another fix. Asking around, Arn finally gets directions to the Temple of Apis the Healer, the primary church of the District.

Arn finally gets Fedik to the healers and asks them for aid for the evening. Arn explains that the young man was stopped harshly and he wishes to reset the man’s leg and avoid him being crippled. The healers inside are more than happy to do it and of course charge Arn their customary “donation” fee. Arn begrudgingly hands over the money, and tells them to do a good job setting the kid’s leg properly.   

As the healers do their job with Fedik, Arn takes a moment to talk to him.“Look ‘ere lad…..I know that ye had a rough life. None of us can change where we come from, but we can change where we go from there. Your background as a pirate and thug can actually be useful. So after ye heal and have time off from thievery for a while and learn more about being an honest man.   We can help you with food and services for your companions.However, I expect equal respect back to me and my companions. How would you like a chance to break away from the scum and villainy you reside with, and a chance at being  a real hero first?”

Fedik shakes his head in affirmative, “I don’t know. Sounds dangerous, I’ll have to see after a month, but I’ll probably just go back to my same old ways of living off the street and the misfortune of others,” Fedik gasps as he tells this to Arn, then shrinks back, expecting an assault of some kind from the Dwarf and surprised at the honesty the Oath requires of him.

Arn looks up at the young human and his eyebrows raise up in surprise at Fedick’s comment. “Ye all too worried about thievin’ and getting that stupid flayleaf. I ain’t got none of yer leaf, but I do have LEFT. LEFTY in that regards.” Arn walks up to Fedick and brandishes his large, ornately studded gauntlet on his right hand.    

“See this?!! This is LEFTY! Lefty hates thieves and flayleaf. It was Lefty that threw the mace at ye, not me Arn. Lefty wants ye dead. I’m showing mercy on ye, healing you up and fixin’ yer leg.    Lefty thinks we’re wasting our time and money and he thinks he should just strangle you and leave you for dead. Is that what you want there kid? Because if it is, I’m not sure I can hold Lefty back.”

Fedick looks back at Arn as if he suddenly realizes that the dwarf may actually be crazier than he is. The dwarf’s eyes are bulging and blood-shot, spit coming from his mouth as he yells. Fedick is too horrified to answer, fearing not only the forced truth, but perhaps facing the rage of the now angered dwarf. “I-i-i-don’t know….” is all Fedick can blurt out.

Arn closes his eyes in a slow blink, and the madness that was once there seems to have subsided as a more clear-minded dwarf now speaks to Fedick.

“Here’s what’s going to happen Fedick. If ye want to stay here in town, that’s fine. You will serve me and my companions as an informant. You will be my eyes and ears in the alleys and streets.   You will find and report information to me. I will allow you to live and do as you do in life, but know this, if you harm any children or your crimes are anything more than simply petty thievery, know that I will be back to hunt you down and turn Lefty loose upon you yet. I seek information and you can be useful to us in that capacity.”

A Visit to the Witchwardens Tower

After a few minutes Frump steps into an unoccupied alley and disappears, leaving Fortis to reemerge a moment later. The Ellyl moves back towards the Witchwardens tower, his freshly gravid purse seeming to pull him more forward than down. After a short trip Fortis arrives at the Witchwardens hall and seeks admittance. “Good afternoon, I have a small bit of business to conduct, but would also ask that I be allowed to speak to whomever it is who determines membership in your association. I am curious what one must do to learn and teach within your group. I had a brief conversation recently with Alzel and would ask to speak with him if he is available.”

After a few minutes Alzel appears at the door, again wearing a dark purple silk robe. “Ahh… hello my little friend from yesterday. I hope you have been able to find accommodations suitable to your status. Unfortunately you find us in the midst of something of a political and legal crisis at the moment. As you have probably heard, the Harbormaster was murdered last night and the city is roiling more vitriolically than a negligent alchemists unattended cauldron. Now what is it you need? And where is your charming companion from yesterday?”

The Witchwarden's Seal

The Ellyl sketches a flourish embellished bow while hovering at eye level. ”A good afternoon to you as well Alzel, though I do apologize for foregoing your appropriate title. Perhaps it would be best to start with formal introductions.My name is Maester Fortis Levenhander, formerly apprenticed to Maester Reginald Foeldsworth and originating from Borough Legash. My companion of last evening Is Valinya, a song mage. She will of course make her own formal introduction if and when she visits again. May I ask your title?”

Alzel grins at the litany ”Ahh my little Fey friend, We are not often so formal here, Though I am known to use titles when I need to travel abroad. My favorite is ‘Alzel, Summoner of the Final Ember’. It is something of an inside joke harkening back to a friend’s jibe when we were apprenticed together.” He then steps back and sweeps his arm into the entry hall. “Would you care to com in and continue our discussion in more comfort? Can I offer you refreshment Maester Fortis Levenhander of Borough Legash?”

Fortis returns the smile in an entirely goodnatured manner, aware of the incongruous pomposity he brought to a town in turmoil and with no established nobility. “I apologize for my overly formal introduction, but I am attempting to ensure there can be no perception of slight on the part of a group I seek to befriend. Please do just call me Fortis. Thank you for your kind invitation and I would very much like to conduct our discourse in the cool of the tower rather than in the heat of the afternoon sun.” He flies slowly across the threshold into the interior of the tower and, at Alzel’s direction, off to a small but well appointed side room containing a desk and a few chairs. “I am a bit parched, if you have a cool drink of water available I would like to take you up on that offered refreshment.”

Alzel moves to a side table and retrieves a silver ewer and a small crystal aperitif glass. “I’m afraid I don’t have anything in a smaller size. We are not often fortunate enough to host members of the Fey community, as so few of them pass our shores.”

Fortis shakes his head as if to say Think nothing of it while effortlessly calling forth a beautiful crystal vessel of his own. “I have learned to come prepared for these eventualities. It would be unfair for every race to expect special treatment in someone else’s domain.” He holds out the vessel and accepts a brief pour from the proffered ewer. “Thank you very much”

The fire mage hides his reaction to the created crystal tankard. “It is difficult for me to see the detail, but is that a replica of our tower?”

Fortis nods. “Yes it is, though unfortunately this particular cup will disappear like normally Created objects, if you like I can add to your collection of servingware with a more lasting copy, should you ever need to use one again.” Fortis raises his tankard towards Alzel and drinks deeply to relieve his thirst while the fire mage seats himself behind the desk with his own drink.

“Now, what is it I can do for you Fortis? You seemed to have quite a number of questions yesterday.” Alzel spreads his hands inviting the Ellyl to state his business.

Fortis settles himself onto the high back of a chair “As you know, my companions and I are recently arrived in your city. We are looking for ways to learn a few new spells, teach some of what we know to those who are interested and, depending on the duties, obligations and benefits, petition for membership in your group, should it be open for new inductees. What can you tell me about the requirements to become a Witchwarden? Is it separate from a normal apprenticeship?”

Alzel looks at the diminutive Ellyl seriously for a moment. “It is not every day we have someone asking for membership. As you might expect there are a number of strictures we place on our members, though none are too burdensome. Primary among them is maintaining the safety and security of our city. We would take quite some time to consider your petition. Are you certain you have the patience to dedicate months of time to our brotherhood?”

Fortis wrinkles his brow. “Unfortunately I’m uncertain of my ability to commit time that far in advance, our task is… fluid and unpredictable. That being said, I would still very much enjoy trading useful knowledge with you or members of your conclave. I am certain we each possess secrets the other would find useful to trade, with of course, a willingness on my part to promise not use those secrets in away that would compete with your business.” Fortis attempts to negotiate diplomatically.

Sensing Alzel’s hesitation Fortis decides to sweeten the deal “Of course, as a newcomer to the area and non-member I’d be happy to teach three spells for each two I learn” Well, they are primarily merchants after all. “It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest.”

Alzel smiles. “I’m certain we can find some way to accommodate your interest in learning.”

The Witchwarden continues, “We are more than happy to provide you with available scrolls for your learning. You seem like an up and up gentleman and maybe we can come into an agreement on multiple purchases allowing us to wave some of the costs generally associated with custom spells. Since you will be learning from these scrolls, maybe we could also provide them to you uncharged, that will drop the cost somewhat as well. You could even return the blank scrolls and cases when done so our mages could prepare them with new spells. Any way to cut costs saves us all a bit of coin, I believe. Does this sound agreeable?”                                 

Fortis considers this new information carefully before replying and, recognizing a lack of interest in what he has to teach, agrees. “That sound like a fine arrangement. Thank you. I’ve a few requests for you to write non-charged versions of scrolls when you or your compatriots have the time. I can guarantee you a sale for Purify Air, Walk Through Earth and a few others such as Suspend Spell, Suspend Magic, Displace Spell, Create Warrior, Test Food, Cook and Create Food. If you would like a deposit as a show of good faith I am perfectly happy to conduct our terms of sale that way as well. That should work out to about 17 days of writing, which is a bit on the high side of three weeks at five days per week.”

After concluding their business Fortis takes his leave. “Thank you so very much for your kind hospitality Alzel. If at any point in the future you find yourself in a position where I might be of assistance I do hope you will contact me. Please have a very pleasant evening”

With another slightly self mocking bow the Ellyl departs the tower and heads back to the manor. “I do believe I should be there in plenty of time for supper, perhaps I'll even be early enough to discuss my good news with the team prior to the meal.”

Link Back to Sundered Lands #20 - Turmoil in Essanos

Cast of Characters: 

+Arne Jamtgaard plays Seeker, a teenage Wolfen Warlord

+Ben Zittere plays Fortis, an Ellyl trickster and Mage

+Stephen Kolmetz plays Valinya, an Elven Wildsong Mage

+Mike Biancone plays Arn, a surly Dwarven Warrior

+Amergin O'Kai plays Moonscar, the esoteric Kankoran Druid

+Daniel White plays Silver, a young and curious Dragon
and +Jason GURPS as the GM