Day 1 in Dragonshore (Part 2)
Atriox enters the lieutenant's room, finding simple and plain lodgings. There's a single bed, a table, a few chairs, and a pile of extra bedding folded neatly in the corner. There also appears to be a closed and locked trunk, likely with Donovan's personal effects.
The kobold on its makeshift leash stumbles in after you, still blindfolded and looking miserable. He trips and falls over the uneven threshold, grimacing from the pain. He twists around and uneasily stands again, snarling, finding it difficult with his arms bound.
Atriox looks at the Kobold and decides there’s not a whole lot he can spy on from in here. He takes the kobolds blindfold off and escorts him to the bed. There he rearranges the bindings so that the Kobold is tied comfortably on the bed.
Atriox himself sets his weapon up against a wall and then puts one of the chairs by his weapon and sits down looking at the kobold.
After a moment of silence, he says "how are your burns little one? Alrik did a fine job mending them soon they will just be scars."
His eyes dart around the room taking everything in. At the question though, he glares and turns his head away with a loud "Tch..."
His little snaggle toothed mouth twists into a painful sneer, pulling at his healing burns. In draconic he spits, "You only spare me to use me, worm. And you bring me to this stinking pit, with these demons... The scars don't matter. I'd have been better off dead."
(He'll possibly warm up to you...... It might just take time lol)
Atriox grunts steam billowing out from his nostrils and mouth this time.
"I like your spirit. Your right I do want something from you. But as I said that's not the only reason that I spared you. As I readied to cut you down once and for all I felt something. I felt that you didn't die for a reason from my initial onslaught.
Atriox waits a few beats before continuing all the while looking at the kobold on the bed.
"Do you think I'm comfortable here??? In an armed fortress of humans? While I don’t consider them demons, they are not kin. They are not Draconic. I am from a place far from here where all Dragon kind was welcome......granted there weren't that many actual dragons around. The first born don’t mingle often."
Atriox chuckles at that.
"It was attacked long ago when I was young and I've been mostly on my own ever since....doing what I can to survive. But I miss it. I miss home. There were a few kobold tribes believe it or not. I used to run with them when I was small.
"That's my end game. Return home. Kill whatever destroyed my family and our people and rebuild what was lost. A place for all Draconic species. It probably sound silly...... but that's my goal and I'll kill who ever stands in my way if I must!
Atriox realizes at some point he had looked down and now he looks back up fiercely looking at the kobold with determination
"You have no reason to trust me and I don’t entirely trust you. But I'll make a deal with you. Tell me what I want to know. Help me. Fight for me......or with me at least. And when your freedom is earned, I'll give you a choice. Stay with me or scamper back to your forest. Either way I'll give you this back."
Atriox holds up the platinum piece for the kobold to see.
The kobold, tied where he is, listens begrudgingly without much of a choice. He continues staring at the wall. But at the mention of Atriox's people being destroyed and his mutual dislike of being here, the creature glances over, his yellowish eyes studying you. Thinking.
He seems to have a flicker of understanding and pity on his face; a look of empathetic pain. He holds his reptilian gaze when you look back up, too... Likely considering your offer. There's a definite debate going on in his little head, weighing his options and your honesty.
However, when he sees the platinum coin in your hand the kobold's fierce eyes turn furious. He struggles to leap from the bed, his words escaping like a dog's bark.
"That's MINE!! Thief! You have no right to that, NONE! Give it back or I'll claw your eyes out!!"
Alrik, you come to the door with Donovan at that moment, pushing it open just in time to see this last exchange.
Alrik sighs. "Settle down, there... I brought you some food." He sets a tray of food down in front of him. "I'll untie you, but I warn you, don't try anything. You'll regret it. Just eat, please."
He leans down and looks the kobold in the eye. "I have no problem with you or your kind. I hold no grudges or qualms. I won't hurt you if you don't try to hurt me."
The kobold's eyes turn furiously to yours, Alrik, his sinewy muscles straining against their bindings. He takes a deep breath through his nostrils, then looks down at the plate in your hands and back to you.
In choppy undercommon he lets out a whining growl, "No qualm, all lie! Ring have, smells priest blood!" He licks his tongue.
Yet... He's still rather exhausted, injured and starving. The smell of meat is too much for him. His body shakes and he collapses back down on the bed, his muscle's strength giving out. His eyes glisten, still full of pain and hurt.
He glances over at Atriox and the coin, then turns his face away from both of you. "Tch... I'll eat. Maybe poison, I die. Yes." He shifts uncomfortably in his bindings, having rubbed them terribly against his burns.
Atriox puts the coin away.
"Your right I have no claim to it other than that of victory spoils and I do NOT intend to keep it. You must earn it back though. I think you are loyal to our people. Yes, OUR people. And I respect that. I pray to Lo you come around to my offer because I do not want to kill you little tooth."
Atriox does what passes for a deep sigh.
Alrik friend please untie him so he can eat. He’s knows what will happen if he makes the wrong move."
The kobold watches Atriox put the coin away with intense desire. Then his eyes dart nervously between the three men in the room. Donovan just relaxes good-humoredly, his back against the door.
Alrik reaches down and unties the kobold. "I don't have any qualms with you. Yes, I killed the priest. He attacked me, I defended myself. You would have done no different if something attacked you."
He sets down the tray of food next to him. "I can't keep calling you Kobold. I'm sure Atriox would like to know what to call you as well. I am Alrik. I have no second name because I am a bastard child. Where I'm from, you only get a second name if you're born of important parents."
Alrik sits on the floor, leaning against the bed as if a kobold's company isn't unfamiliar. "Believe it or not, when I was in the far away sands, I worked with your kind..."
The kobold rubs his freed arms gingerly, peering over the food. Seeing Alrik sitting against the side of the bed in such a vulnerable position made him feel more in control. He could easily maul him if he wanted to.
The little fiend takes a piece of meat in his claw and sniffs it, then slowly tastes it. Satisfied it's not really poisoned (or past caring at this point) he begins to ravenously feast on the elk, potatoes, and everything else slopped into the plate.
He had half-listened to Alrik through his hungry haze, but eyes him when he states his work with other kobolds. He looks intrigued but skeptical. Licking and chewing on the plate, he mutters in between chomps, "Tak."
He glanced at the Dragonborn, then back at Alrik. Then he looks down and grumbles again in his best attempt at common. "I am... Tak."
Atriox smiles "it's our honor to know your name Tak." Atriox stands up and brings his chair by the bed and casually sits down propping his feet up on the bed.
"I trust the food was good?" Atriox laughs "you devoured it like a starving hatchling"
"So Alrik tell us of our brethren in the desert while I eat. I'm sure Tak here would find it just as interesting as I would."
"For starters, their scales are light colored... I suspect it's due to being hatched for generations in the deserts... kind of a natural camouflage. They also have shorter muzzles and bigger teeth, from what I'm noticing. Lots of scaled and armored beasts in the desert. I suppose the bigger teeth help when they bite through that."
He smiles wryly at Tak, before continuing. "Same vicious behaviors, and ruthless as all get out. They make weapons out of bones, mostly. They have some sort of short sword they make out of the jawbone of a basilisk... serrated and nasty."
Atriox chuckles.
"I bet Tak would love one of those short swords. Or maybe some throwing spears made from the same thing? Too bad were so far from the desert. I've never seen a basilisk.
Tak looks skeptical, but you can see a little more intrigue on his tiny face than before. The description of such a vicious sounding weapon makes him grin evilly. He eyes Donovan in the corner.
The lieutenant just stares coolly back, then makes a small comment about fetching a healer before leaving. The kobold licks his lips, watching intently as the door opens and shuts.
"Desert... What is?" His little head swivels back to stare at the others. He has never left this area before and knows practically nothing of other biomes or monsters.
"But. Big teeth. Nice sound too..." He adds as he considers it. His voice switches to draconic for a moment, grumbling a vicious excitement. "It'd be easier to tear apart a deer or young moose... Rip its throat out faster. Bleed it dry. Crush its bones. So tasty."
He licks his plate again, already spotless.
Atriox grunts switching to Draconic for Tak to better understand.
"The desert is for the most part a wasteland Tak. Instead of grass and trees and all sorts of plant life there’s only sand for the most part. It's so hot and dry there that there’s very little water. Ultimately a death trap for those who weren't raised there or those who aren't prepared."
"It just goes to show how tough our storm caller is."
Alrik catches a few words of the conversation, but not being fluent in draconic, just kind of listens. "If you're still hungry, Tak, I'm sure I could have another tray of food brought in..."
Tak glances between you both, staring hard at Alrik. "Desert nasty." He sniffs loudly, thinking about the offer of more food. He looks suspicious.
The sound of the door suddenly opening sends him scrambling. He holds up his chipped plate as a shield, his teeth barred and claws out. Donovan walks back in, followed by a gentle looking young woman. She had a golden braid down her back and the fair features of a half-elf.
"H-hi, I heard you are in need of healing?" She smiles shyly, holding up a basket of herbs and vials.
"Hail there fair one" Atriox
To Tak "She means you no harm Tak she is only here to heal my wounds. At least I think that's why she’s here ( Atriox smirks)
To the half elf he says "I am in need of your assistance fair one. I sustained wounds from this spirited one over here and my friend Alrik over there although I begrudgingly admit it probably saved us."
Alrik glances up from under his hood before pulling it down a little further. "Miss... thanks for coming."
Her expression turns from one of peaceful shyness, to one of nervous unease at the kobold, then to... aghast displeasure and surprised disgust at Atriox's statements. Glancing at Alrik her mouth is set into a grim, fine line.
She approaches Atriox first. The half elf looks over his injuries, pulling out a bottle of salve and a powder. "Kobolds are known for poisoning their blades," she murmurs, pouring the powder onto his exposed shoulder. It stings like salted hell. Tak just sneers and snaps his teeth together.
"Best clean it out just in case," she says rather matter-of-factly. She slathers soothing ointment on and adds in surprisingly cold and fluent draconic, "Watch your words here, Dragonborn. Most of us know enough dragon-tongue to get by."
She then turns to Alrik. Donovan seems to realize something and... let’s out a little cough of discomfort. She pulls the storm mage's hood back without a second thought. "Alrik. The Tempest? Hm. I've heard of your... Exploits." She doesn't say more, but she peers closely at his head injury. She repeats the stinging, soothing process, then packs up in a huff and leaves.
Donovan shakes his head with a little laugh. "I didn't clarify but, uh... I wasn't the only of our old battalion stationed here. So are Fredrick, Gothyarthic, and... Georgette. Little Flora here must be friends with Georgette... Undoubtedly shared some sour tales. My apologies."
Alrik puts his face in his hand, rubbing the scar in exasperation. "Ugh... Georgette... why of all women did it have to be her? She'll spread blown out of proportion rumors from here to the Crags!"
He looks at Tak. "Apparently, she doesn't care about your wounds, my little friend. Guess you'll have to do with my tending. Apologies..."
Turning to Atriox, he smirks. "I guess I should have told you... most military personnel, especially the officers and medics, know many languages... dragon-speech is one of the primarily spoken in the deserts."
Tak just glares at Donovan, then looks at the door again with both dislike and hunger. His "Here. All demons. All same. Tak no want pain medicine. Rather die." He tenses his muscles, pulling at the blackened, scorched and melted scales. Despite the salve, they would scar terribly later.
Donovan just shrugs as he opens the door. He dislikes the way the kobold looks at him. "We'll have you on your way before Georgette ever catches wind. I'll go fetch a case of supplies for your trip. We have just basics here though... most soldiers are sent to the temple of Pelor in Dragonshore."
Atriox looks sincerely confused as he looks between Alrik and Tak....
He finally says to Tak in Draconic "sometimes I can’t understand these soft skins either Tak. So confusing making things so complicated." Atriox growls in annoyance
Now turning to Alrik he says, "as soon as we have those supplies we should be off and see to the mission at hand."
Alrik turns to look at Tak, making sure his scar is clearly visible. "Well, kobold kind in the desert wear scars like badges of honor. They give each other nicknames or second names to refer to their scars or how they got them. For instance, I worked very closely with a kobold that lost a few fingers to a basilisk. His kin started calling him Bint Finger-gone." He holds up a hand and folds down his pinky and ring finger to imitate missing fingers. "And me, they called me Alrik Storm Face... so I'm thinking I might start calling you Tak Flame-Scar... that is, if you like it."
Hearing Atriox speak draconic again, he recognizes a phrase and smirks. "Seems your entire kind calls us that... soft skins. I don't mind..." after a few seconds, he adds, his smirk deepening and eyes flickering a playful look, "especially since we often refer to Dragonborn as scaly bastards." He says in a teasing manner
Tak furrows his scaly brow. "Flame-Scar"? He contemplates that. There is a strange, conflicted expression on his face.
Atriox chuckles
"Tak Flame-Scar......I like it. As to being scaly bastards at least we have some basic protection. That soft skin won't do anything to stop a blade. But no harm done.
Tak looks at Atriox. His eyes dart to where his platinum coin was placed in the Dragonborn's belongings.... Then back again to his face. It's the most serious and calm he's been.
"What you want from me?"
Atriox looks at Alrik and then to the floor pondering for a minute......
Finally, he looks at Tak and says in Draconic. "What I want Tak is for you to tell me about your master. This Tyranus of the Frost. What is he like? What are his intentions? And can he be reasoned with? This I NEED to know......past that the rest is up to you. I would ask how many of your brethren follow this dragon and what fortifications they have but I understand if you feel you cannot tell me such things."
Atriox grunts "past that I would like you to stay with me and Alrik. We could use the company and the help. You could become one of the greatest of your kind. Tak Flame-Scar great adventurer and slayer of terrible evils. You could become strong, famous, respected by many of your kind, and rich....rich enough to make this platinum here (Atriox pats where is keeping the coin) look like a simple copper." Someday you could maybe even help me rebuild my dream. A place where all Draconic kind are welcome and that means the kobolds to especially. You could make your own clan Tak. The Flame-Scar clan. I know you may not trust us and you have every right not to but despite that....look me in the eye and tell me what I'm saying doesn't appeal to you. Tell me you don't want all that.......... I wouldn't believe you if you did. Though we are somewhat genetically different we are both of dragon decent and I know you want what's best for all of us deep down." (Persuasion 17)
Tak stares at Atriox for a long time, unblinking. His hands clench and unclench uncomfortably.
"Tak not able to stop you, when you came to forest." He starts in broken common. "Tak... weak. You strong." His tail twitches. "But Tyranus stronger. Reason with... Not sure."
The kobold's eyes glisten. "Tyranus cold. Feral. Smart. Tyranus a great white dragon. Intends--" he glances at Alrik for a moment nervously, "--to gather lesser dragon races. For us here... help terrorize Dragonshore. Tyranus look for something."
"Kobold follow strong. Dragons are... Gods." He stares harder at Atriox. "But they want able teeth. Claws. Other tribes, they eat weak. Strong survive. I not--" He sniffs. "I lost. You scar me. They not like desert folk." He points at Alrik. "They not give Tak name, they..." he trails off.
"I just traitor. I better off dead."
He stares at the door. "You not like these demons. But you was them. You help them still. Kill lesser people. Kobolds? Why you say you want peace with all dragonkind if you kill them? I hear what you say... In cart. Not all unconscious." He turns away finally.
Atriox looks at Tak.......trying to find the words......not to convince Tak necessarily but just to convey the truth.
Finally Atriox speaks "Tak.... I don’t want to kill you or your people...... you’re not even lesser beings truly. I said what I said out of anger."
Atriox looks away but continues speaking "when you go through what I've gone through Tak it can make someone very hateful....dark on the inside.......my survival instincts are honed to a point. The anger that fills me keeps me going. If that makes sense? Think about why you where robbing people in the forest following a dragon’s bidding to hurt people? You're angry are you not? You attacked me without knowing who I was or my story? You understand what it's like I suspect to be judged by a world that doesn't understand you because you are different."
At some point Atriox gets up and goes over to where Alrik is sitting. He puts one hand on the Storm Bringers shoulder and says to Tak "while there are very few of them, there ARE those in the world that don’t have dragon blood who do not mock or judge us because they are different. Some are even jealous of us. But some are not demons some are friends. Atriox grins at Alrik then looks back at Tak.
"I do want to make such a place as I described to you Tak. A place where we can ALL be accepted and happy with dragon kind at the top. But not everyone will stand with me on that Tak that idea threatens some......even dragons. Though connected through blood and heritage we are not all noble or great. Some of us are evil corrupt. I will stop anyone who gets in my way even if they are dragon kind though it would make me sad beyond measuring.
"We all have to find a place to stand when the storm comes and stand our ground! I choose to stand against evil and make a better home for my kind no matter what it costs me personally."
Atriox comes over to the bed and squats. He looks into Tak’s eyes. " if your people would brand you a traitor and punishing you for losing one fight then are they a people worth having? Yes, me and Alrik are strong and fearsome. But we worked together. And do you think either of us has not ever been bested? I have had my ass kicked more times than I can count, and I bet Alrik would say the same. Experience comes from exactly that Tak experience. It's not something to be ashamed of little one."
"Experience..." He licks his lips. "Yes. Fear, shame. Yes." He looks down. "Anger..." His eyes glow cruelly, but he can't seem to answer that.
"Tak thought you lie. You no prince like you claim. But you talk like one. You regal. Like dragon... Like Tyranus." He flexes his claws. "And your human friend, he different."
"...You different." He stares at Alrik. Clambering over to get close to him, he looks intently at his face, his scar, just inches away. "Storm Face." You both can smell him strongly up close, like wet dog and stagnant water.
"You both treat nice. Even if angry. No torture. No death. Suppose slave. Yes." He looks at the ring on Alrik's finger. "I not like stupid priest anyway."
Tak backs up and looks around nervously. He glances at the door again as if listening, or if he's expecting soldiers.
In draconic, Tak quietly states, "Dragonborn Atriox, I will serve you and earn my coin back, as you said. As you promised." He lowers his head in both a committed and defeated manner.
Atriox smiles "Lift your head up Tak there is no shame in this. You have chosen the right path and someday you will look back and be glad you made this choice. And I keep my promises Tak."
Atriox takes the platinum coin out and puts it in Tak’s hand. "This is not mine and you already earned it. Making the choice to be better despite everything you know....that’s very brave Tak. I pray you do not disappoint me. Stay true and there will be many more where that came from friend, I also promise you that."
Atriox goes over and gathers his things then with weapon in hand and a smile on his face "so Alrik Storm Bringer and Tak Fire-Scar shall we begin?"
Tak looks wide-eyed at the coin in his hand and clutches it dearly to him. After a moment he says, "Yes. T-Tak can take you to ruins."
Atriox nods to Tak and then says, "should we make sure he can defend himself? arms and armor for the little guy?"
He glances between the two of you, looking nervously excited. He's currently wearing very old and scorched leather armor, just bits and pieces from past raids.
At that moment, Donovan comes back to the room with a box in his hands. Tak scrambles behind Atriox without thinking about it, glaring at the man.
Donovan just rolls his eyes. "Sorry I took so long. Had to calm Flora down and convince her that what was said was a misunderstanding. She wasn't keen on me bringing anything here."
He sets the box on the bed. "I got you two soldiers a set of healing salves each, along with a more potent healing vial... I could only sneak one out, our supplies are rather low. Also got some bandages, a silk rope, and some rations."
He glances at the kobold. "You get the information yet that you needed from this guy?"
Atriox grunts "Indeed. His name is Tak by the way. Tak Flame-Scar. Say Donovan I don’t suppose we could get some arms or armor for Tak? He is to be our new companion and I won't see him unprepared. We'd pay of course
Atriox looks at Tak. "Speaking of which what is your preferred weapon Tak?"
He stares for a moment at Atriox with his mouth agape. Then he busts out laughing. "BWAHAHA! You're so serious, Dragonborn, it was hard to tell you were joking there. Aah..." he wipes a tear from his eye.
Atriox grunts loudly blowing steam. Annoyed at the human.
"That went about as well as I suspected. We will have to see if we can get you something in Dragonshore Tak."
He stops. "Wait, you're serious?" He glances between Alrik and Atriox. "I thought you were going to--" he looks down, disgusted at the little kobold.
"You know he's just going to slit your throat in the night, and steal anything not nailed down, right?" Donovan shakes his head. "I meant no offense, only being honest."
"We have some... Gnome-sized armor available. You can go check it out in the armory, down the hall. Is there anything else you need before your mission?" He smiles a bit, trying to be friendly.
Atriox reigns in his anger resisting the urge to impale the man.
"Tak knows what will happen should he try, and he also knows that I am offering a far better life than what he has now."
"Tak stay with Alrik here. You CAN trust him. I promise. Donovan you seem like a nice man and I appreciate what you have done for us truly. BUT if I return and find something has happened to Tak........ I will raise unholy hell on this fort and those who call it home. I pray that will not happen. Now Tak what weapon do you prefer?
Donovan holds his hands up as if to say, 'nothing to worry about' and he leans back against the wall in as non-threatening a manner as possible. He glances at his friend and whispers with a chuckle, "You always had a soft spot for the scaly fellas in the desert too... Damn."
Tak stares up at the Dragonborn, rather speechless. He glances anxiously at Donovan and Alrik, then back. "I-I always used... Kobold weapons. Smaller. Things with... With reach. Spears." He fiddles with his coin as he talks in draconic. "But I can learn any weapon you bring back. You spared me. I'll... Try to protect you with whatever I have."
Atriox, you head out of the room and down the hall. Near the end you come to a storage area full of weapons and armor. A few soldiers exiting the room are startled by you but smile and continue on their way.
Inside you see mostly leather, studded and plain, along with the complementary soldier garb everyone here sports. There are a few smaller sizes, but nothing quite the size of a kobold. The closest is something for a gnome.
You do find extra fittings, such as arm guards, gloves and belts, along with varying sized boots and helmets.
Among the weapons you see mostly swords, spears and pikes, with the odd mace or morningstar. But what does catch your eye is a pile of javelins, a bit smaller than the spears. A broken one is far shorter than the others, likely here to be mended.
Atriox grins at himself for finding these items for Tak.
He grabs the gnome armor as well as bracers, gloves, a belt and a pair of boots and a helmet just in case Tak wants to cover his head.
The last thing Atriox grabs is two of the javelins. He decided to take some of the unused ones so that they would be in better condition. If he needed to break them later to shorten them for Tak he would.
Alrik looks at Donovan, an inquisitive expression on his face. "You still collect skulls of beasts you've killed in your travels?"
Donovan cracks a big smile. "You kidding? Course I do! Not too much interesting out here in the woods and hills, but... I've collected a good bugbear or two, and a massive dire wolf. Gnarly thing. Missing half its jaw from something that took a bite outa it before I found it."
"You want to see?" He smirks. "You could bring your little charge with us, he's feral enough. I'm sure he'd enjoy the collection."
"Yeah, let's take a look... and if you still got that basilisk that I helped you take down, I may try and talk you out of the jawbone... see if I can't figure out how to turn it into the short sword the desert kobolds would make..." Alrik stands up and gestures for Tak to follow him. "Want to go look at some skulls?"
"Pft, you want to what? Good luck with that. Damn thing was a sucker to mount, their skulls are like iron..." He motions for them to follow as he heads outside again. His voice trails off, "I've got em stored in one of the conference rooms. Ironfist's request, says it helps with morale..."
Tak glances around the corridor, then up at Alrik next to him. He fidgets and shakes his head no, backing up and sitting in the corner.
"Nobody will hurt you, of that I can assure you..." he grins. "And I'm sure we'll be passing the mess tent... I bet you I could scrounge up another plate of food for you if you tag along."
He swallows, standing up again uneasily. "O-ok."
***
Meanwhile, Atriox, you head back outside, your arms full of gear. Without meaning to, you bump into an individual. "Ow!"
Stumbling back, you see it is the healer from earlier. She seems to have been carrying an armful of clothes to take to launder, now bending down to scoop up ones she dropped. Rubbing her nose, she stares up in embarrassment. "H-hello again, Dragonborn."
Atriox steps back due to the awkwardness.
He helps her pick up the fallen clothes and then looks down at the ground trying to find words......finally he says to her " I am sorry that I startled you earlier...... I forgot to switch out of my native tongue. I only meant to pay you a compliment by calling you fair one and explain to the little guy who you were. I beg your forgiveness fair one and I thank you for your healing hands."
She gives Atriox a funny look, then gently takes the clothes from him. "T-that's alright, sir. T-thank you for your assistance here at the fort. You are very eloquent, considering the company you keep. His words are honeyed, but I know of his history." She flashes a coy smile.
"I shouldn't judge you as t-the same, nor provide care in so rough a manner. It serves as a p-poor representation of my skills. Is your arm okay?"
Atriox would probably be blushing if a dragon kind could blush.......
"I thank you fair one and my arm is just as new. The little guys attack was poorly executed, and I avoided Alrik’s attack as well as I could. You mended it expertly. You know........ I made a comment earlier that wasn't respectful and mow that I think of it......it’s probably what got you upset. I don’t know what convinced me to insinuate you were there for any other reason but to heal me.........."
Flora blushes and turns her face away a little. "Y-yes, but be that as it may, I should be more mindful of my duties." Standing, she holds out her hand to shake his. She smiles and in draconic, adds, "I appreciate your sincerity and honesty, young Dragonborn."
Atriox clearly humbled takes her hand carefully in hers and then bows as best he can.
He comes back up and releases her hand. "Fair thee well fair one I hope life is kind to you and sees you safely to somewhere other than these dreary stone walls.
With one last head nod Atriox continues on his way.
Flora blushes and continues on her way. Atriox, you hear a commotion up ahead in the mess hall. Shouting and clattering, and a few things breaking.
***
The two of you follow Donovan down a few hallways into a small promenade, and across to another room. Quite a few heads turn again as you pass, both for the sight of the small kobold as much as the infamous Tempest. Word about your arrival has continued to spread.
Donovan pushes the heavy door open. "If you hear of any strange monsters on your trip, let me know. I'd love to go on a hunt with you again, Alrik!" As you go in...
You see a room with a heavy wooden table, surrounded by several benches. At the head of the table on the wall resides a large skull with 1000 razor sharp teeth. It's easy to tell by the size and scale of it, and the lightning bolt hole in the forehead, that it was the Basilisk hunted in the deserts so many years ago. The one who graced Alrik with his scar.
Along all the other walls are a host of other pieces, expertly cleaned and bleached. You can spot the dire wolf Donovan had spoken of, the jawbone half gone. You see a great bugbear, a rather large snake, and several cat skulls. Then a wall dedicated of other lizard-like pieces. Some large, some... Small.
Tak stumbles in, nervous around all the soldiers outside and staying as close to Alrik as possible. He stops, staring at the large basilisk in awe. "Storm Face, you... kill?"
Alrik nods to Tak. "Yes, I killed the basilisk to which that skull belongs. You see, it was about to bite Donno here in half. I shoved him out of the way, but it still got me." He points at the pulsing scar on his face. "It made me mad. I hadn't ever been hurt that bad before... so I threw all my magic power into one careless, wild spell... an enormous storm emerged from my fingertips, raining the wrath of the lightning gods upon the desert. The lightning bolt that killed the basilisk arced and seared my wound shut, but it also damaged me... I can no longer do magic of other elements... only that of storms."
Tak stares up at your scar, then back at the basilisk. "You have mighty power. You like dragon."
He walks to the side to look at the jawbone of the creature. "This massive... Really used for kobolds? Did they--" He stops as he stares past Alrik at the wall behind him.
He looks horrified for a long moment, then lets out a barking cry like a wounded dog. Tak looks around in fury as if for a weapon, but having nothing, his expression changes. He pushes past the storm caller and bolts out the door.
Alrik turns around, looking at the wall, not knowing what could cause such an expression. "What in the hells?"
Donovan stares over at you, shrugging. "Sorry mate, he probably saw the other dragon beasts here... Didn't mean to upset him." He looks sincerely sorry. "I'll hurry off to see if I can help."
As he leaves you look at the wall. You see not just drakes and alligators, but smaller species. Some the size of Tak. A few you see with horns carved with unique symbols.
You also begin to hear noises coming from the mess hall. They are definitely getting louder.
Alrik rushes out the door, following the sound.
Atriox rushes to the clamor to see what's going on and to help if he can.
You both rush in to see Tak on top of a counter, an armful of whatever it looks like was in reach of him--plates, a large knife, a canister of seasoning. He's crying out in anger, slashing with the knife like a sword. Several soldiers try to grab him or knock him off, some stand back drunk and laughing and using him as target practice for their potatoes. One catches the canister of pepper in the face and cries out in surprise and pain, his eyes burning.
You hear Tak talking, but it's nearly unintelligible. He's switching between draconic and undercommon, yelling obscenities and curses, threatening death and icy destruction. You can tell if you don't do something, he'll get himself killed.
"Flame-Scar! My idiot of a companion knows not his own stupidity... don't join him by getting yourself killed..." (14 diplomacy? Lol)
He can't even seem to hear you over the din, whether in the area or in his head.
Atriox comes rushing in and when he sees what's going on, he roars as loud as he can blowing out hot steam from his jaws and nostrils trying to get everybody's attention.
When he’s assured that he has it he yells "EVERYBODY BACK! KEEP QUIET!" He approaches Tak slowly. Keeping eye contact with the little guy. He gets as close as he deems safe and then slowly kneels down putting the equipment, he found for Tak before him to see.
He keeps eye contact and then says in Draconic "it's ok Tak I know not exactly what you may have seen......but I can guess and I'm sorry. I got delayed on my return to you. I apologize Tak. I brought you some good equipment here, just for you. Will you please come down and try it on? The sooner we get you outfitted the sooner we can leave."
I'm sure Alrik did not mean to upset you. He has a respect for our kind and would not intentionally upset you.
(Charisma 19+2)
The soldiers back off at the bellowing dragonborn. But murmuring trickles through the crowd watching him act so kindly and so humbly to a kobold. Bringing their own gear to a kobold.
Tak turns his eyes on you, with a feral killing instinct you didn't even see in his eyes when he faced you in the forest. Breathing heavily, he holds the knife up like a dagger, but... his breathing slows as he processes your words. His eyes unglaze. The draconic language snapped him out of it.
He glances around, shaking, seeing everyone watching him. Setting the dishes down, he leaps to the floor. He looks ashamed. Tak slips into the leather armor effortlessly. He grabs the other bits up in his arms, snatches the javelins, and stands near Atriox. He keeps his eyes averted. "Let's go. Please."
Commander Ironfist walks in at that moment. "What the ever-loving hells is going on here!? Are you men making a mockery of my keep? Get this whelp out of here before I kill him myself!" He turns to the other soldiers. "And all you men to the training grounds, NOW! If you can't kill a single damn rogue kobold in our own keep, I should stick you all to digging trenches! Double training until sunset, no breaks."
Alrik's eyes erupt into light, the scar flashing brightly. "Commander Ironfist... you will apologize to Tak. Now..." lightning dances across his fingertips.
"This kobold is under the guard of The Tempest. Are you going to put yourself in the way of the eye of the storm? I guarantee you; you won't make it out the other side!" Alrik glares at the man, his eyes sparking and flashing with rage at the insinuation of harming Tak. (18 intimidate)
Commander Ironfist looks unfazed, his mouth set in a grim line. He takes a step forward, his voice steady. "Soldier, I appreciate what you did fighting for your people--our people--during your service. I admire your guts."
He takes another step forward. "But you're an unmarked soldier. A delivery boy. Coming into my keep. Letting your prisoner free, mind you, an enemy of us and all of Dragonshore, without supervision, wreaking havoc on my men! When I specifically asked when you arrived that he remain blindfolded for obvious reasons! And now... Threatening a commanding officer! You have some balls on you, kid! Stand down now or you will be brought to trial as a traitor and war criminal, Tempest!"
You can see his arm guards light up, his fists turning stone-like before your eyes. His face looks furious.
(These are skill challenge checks you guys are making btw. Like the horse and cart. You have one success and one failure so far. This is also a much higher level npc mind you.... Lolol. Be careful xD)
(Granted, that was a fantastic speech, and as such it does have another effect on someone else...)
Tak stares wide eyed at Alrik. The first soft skin to offer him any kindness or compassion. To treat him as an equal. He wasn't sure if all the kind words before were lies or not, but turning against the tribe leader here? For his sake? There was no doubt in his mind now Alrik was honest...or insane.
Atriox grunts and then turns to the commander standing between him and Tak. His weapon still at a neutral position but easily ready if it comes to a fight.
In common speech) "I understand your reluctance Commander at letting Tak run around free and he is sorry for how he just behaved. Tak has made the decision to join me and Alrik. To forge a better life for himself. Surely all living sentient beings have that right. Tak is going to help us solve the problem at the temple. He just is still adjusting and when he saw the skeletons of his kin he got upset. I imagine we all would do the same in his position."
Atriox pauses for a moment and then continues "I see no reason Commander why we still can’t work together. We have the same goals here. The activity at the temple must stop. And now we have the advantage. Let's just all calm down, shall we? (Charisma 17+2)
Commander Ironfist turns to look at you, his eyes hard. But you see a smile grow. Then he throws his head back and laughs a big, boisterous laugh that shakes the walls.
"You make a fair argument, Dragonborn Atriox. You would make a fine lieutenant with words like those. But," his eyes are fierce. You can sense a rather formidable opponent in this man.
"You best leave now."
Alrik, still holding the storm in his eyes and small lightning bolts arcing between his fingertips, looks at Commander Ironfist with a dangerous smile. "Oh, we're leaving... don't think we aren't. We'll go take care of the problem at the temple, and when we return..." he points at Tak. "When we ALL return... you will owe this little one an apology and part of our payment." (18 persuasion. Thought about using intimidation, because it'd be a total 20, but... better to persuade than bully)
He turns slowly back to face Alrik. "IF he happens to not get himself killed, by some unholy miracle, you're welcome to pass back through here as guests and not traitors. If he can prove himself an honorable kobold, I'll be happy to apologize." He sneers.
"I already made a deal with you at the gate. Knowledge concerning this area, what we knew of the Tanglewood Ruins, and any plunder in which you find, is yours. In exchange for helping us clear out the other wretches like him that have been pillaging the roads for months. That was our deal. We had no payment agreement aside from the money you received for those weapons."
"Killing merchants, slaughtering priests from the temple, burning carts with no regard for women or children, for the sake of some coin...... You know how many orphans have been sent to Dragonshore due to them?" He jabs a finger in the kobold's direction. "How about this, if you can bring me back definitive proof you've wiped out the threat, I'll pay you another 50 gold. A piece."
Alrik gestures for Tak to come stand by his side. "I accept these terms."
Tak looks between them both, then scampers over to where Alrik is. He trips over the things he's carrying, and stumbles back up to sheepishly stand beside the storm mage.
Alrik tucks the little kobold behind his leg and slowly begins backing out of the room, never breaking his gaze at the Commander.
Once he is at the door, he finally allows the sparking to stop on his hands and in his eyes. "Tak Flame-Scar will be back... may I suggest you begin writing your apology now."
The Storm Caller then switches his gaze to Atriox. "We will be out front of the keep. Gather the few supplies we have and meet us there, my friend."
Finally looking at Donovan, he smiles. "You and your damn trophies... if it weren't for you thinking these little fellows are beasts, this whole ordeal wouldn't have happened..." he smirks. "I think I'll be taking that basilisk jawbone for our trouble... especially since I killed the damn thing."
Donovan chuckles. "I'll fetch it for you with some of the boys. We'll bring it out to your cart."
Commander Ironfist just looks around at the other soldiers, standing in silence. "Well hop to it, men! Exercise grounds. NOW." He turns and walks away, steaming.
On the way out, Tak scrambles to slip on the arm guards and a belt but can't fathom how to use the boots or helmet properly with his clawed feet and horns. He chucks them to the side and rushes to keep up with Alrik's long leg strides. He grasps the javelins carefully, keeping his head down.
Atriox understanding the delicacy of their current situation hurries back to the room to get they're supplies
You hurry back and grab the items. You stuff the following into your satchel:
4 healing salves (heal 1d10+2) 1 Healing vial (heal 2d6+4) Silk rope (50ft) Rations (3 days) Bandages
With a satisfied grunt Atriox heads of to the gates to meet up with the others
Upon seeing Atriox approaching, Alrik nods. "Glad that stubborn jackass let us have what was given to us... I really didn't want to have to kill him, nor do I think I could... but if it came down to Tak dying, you and I both would have fought him to the end..." he claps the large Dragonborn on the shoulder.
You spot Alrik and Tak outside. The kobold looks miserable, but at the same time much better off in his new gear. He has his hand grasped around his coin again, mumbling.
A woman comes out leading several soldiers. "This way, gents! Easy does it now!" They are carrying the large jawbone of the basilisk, placing it into the back of the empty wagon cart. Another soldier is hooking Ginger back up. The tawny horse looks miles better than earlier, with a fresh brushing and new ointment on her wounds.
She saunters over, tall with black cropped hair and very tan skin. "You certainly made this day a lot more interesting by showing up." She glowers at Alrik, then gives him a hearty slap across the face. "Never change, do ya?"
Alrik smirks at her, his face tingling from the slap. "Why Arlene, I had no idea you got transferred here!" He turns and sets his satchel down in the wagon, patting Ginger on the side before turning back to the woman. "No hard feelings, okay Laurie?"
He walks over to the front of the wagon and grabs Ginger's lead rope, waving at Georgette as he does. "See you next time, Susan!"
Tak glances at Atriox, highly confused. He skitters after the cart, wanting to get away from the ghastly fort as soon as possible.
Alrik calls back to Tak. "So, any ideas on how to turn that jawbone into a sword for yourself?"
Tak clambers up into the cart, stumbling head over heels into the back. You hear a loud TWACK as his head makes contact with the wood. He sits up, rubbing his skull and looking at the jaw.
"Tak not work big beast bones, only wolves, goblins..." he mutters. He runs a claw over it, feeling the huge, needle like teeth.
He stands next to it and admires the strength of the material. "Sure, needs tools, big ones. Tak not have... Want try!" He looks nervous. "Not mean rude. Tak thanks for chance, much biggest present Tak get all life."
He looks sullen and fiddles with one of the javelins. "Even these, strong. Metal, wood. Not goblin bone. Breaks fast. Great thanks..."
Heading down the road for some time, you pass the rockslide and the gully at the foot of the mountains. Birds saw as you drive past, and Ginger snorts a little uneasily.
The woods grow up red and shimmering around you like before, but now brighter in color with the actual light of sunset coming on fast. The forest noise is more noticeable this time, a good indicator that danger isn't lurking near.
Atriox is glad to be free of the fort and on the road like he’s so used to. But he's even happier now because he’s got friends.
For a while he begins singing in Draconic. Probably an interesting noise to Alrik but it's more a lullaby for Tak.
After a while he looks at Tak. "You know little one at some point we should improve your common speech"
Tak, jostled from a light sleep, grumbles a bit. "Tak bad not."
He rubs his eyes and wraps his tail around him, yawning. He looks a little disoriented at first, then sees the path they're on.
He rubs his eyes and wraps his tail around him, yawning. He looks a little disoriented at first, then sees the path they're on. "What need do?"
"We need to get to Tanglewood grove Tak. We need to collect a plant from there so we can get some shiny coins."
He blinks. "G-grove?" He stares down the crossroad as they reach it. He swallows. "What plant need for shiny coin?"
"Firebloom, or something like that..." Alrik calls from the front of the cart
"They used healing... Yes? For soldiers?" He struggles to speak in more a common tongue. "Priest came... Tried to take..." he trails off.
"Yeah, the priest in Tanglewood needs some. Grumpy enough of a bastard, but coin is coin..."
"Tak no want his nasty coin..." He slumps down sulking in the back of the cart.
Atriox grunts getting Tak’s attention. " I know you don't want to help those soldiers any little one and I don't blame you at all. (Atriox smiles at him) but we need this coin. Everything helps. Helps us live, get food, armor, weapons. You want a real weapon from that basilisk skull, don’t you? That will take nasty coin."
Alrik walks back and looks at Tak. "As far as I'm concerned, whatever you did in the past is just that. In the past. Can't change it, shouldn't try. I only care about what you do in the future. Fair enough, Flame-Scar?"
Tak is silent for a moment. "Would rather kill all soldiers... Nasty priest... But... can do that with new weapon. Nice weapon."
His eyes gleam, and he sings gleefully. "Ooooh, Tak see... Make them think get help... Get nasty coin... Then get weapon! Kill them later. They fund own death. You both so smart! You crafty dragon brains."
"Tak be better in future, you see Storm Face. Like you say." He grins evilly. "Learning smart from you masters. Care about future."
"Well, I guess if they attack us, then yes... we'll kill them later. More what I meant was whatever bad you did in the past, I don't care about... as long as you try and live good and keep yourself to your promise to Atriox, that's what I care about..."
His expression changes and he slumps down. "Oh."
He remains quiet for a while, holding his tongue. You take the other road at the intersection, following the more overgrown path deeper into the woods. The light overhead glows even redder, like a burning sunrise. After several minutes, you come to a small grove in the trees where surprisingly, a merchant sits beside a fragrant fire. His back is to a large chest of mercantile goods, and he’s dressed in strange, colorful garb, all threaded together in a fine spider-like silk. He sports rather large, human ears and very bright, brown eyes. It’s almost like looking into the eyes of a deer or an elk.
He looks up from his silverwood smoking pipe as you approach. With a peaceful smile he says in a singsong sort of way, “Greetings to you strangers! Are you heading towards the Tanglewood Grove? Very strange place…” He points down the way with the tip of his pipe and gets a mischievous glimmer in his eye.
(13 insight. What can I tell about this guy? What does my gut feeling tell me?)
(Sorry, was having dinner. I'll be back more in a bit. XD but you can't sense anything evil with him. He seems super sincere. Chill. )
“Mighty interesting place…" he smiles benignly, continuing. Watching you all happily. "I’m not sure if you know, but some say it was a spawning circle for demons down in the grove... What with the huge rib bones in the center of the field... Others believe that it has been cursed by the ghostly figure that lives there. I’d be careful if your planning on heading that way, it has become very dangerous of late; a hunting ground for goblins and wild beasts alike!”
He tamps in some more sweet-smelling tobacco and stretches his shoulders a bit. The smell of the smoke is intoxicating and relaxing. “I used to travel through to the grove on my way to Dragonshore, but I haven’t been that way for some time now... The path has become overgrown and the journey has become too unsafe, I can’t return until this area has settled down. Oh!” The man chuckles, “Forgive my inhospitality. Feel free to rest in front of this fire for as long as you need. There is some stew too if you fancy any…” He gestures vaguely to a medium copper pot sitting nearby the fire, a delectable aroma permeating from inside. It makes your mouth water.
Tak seems to have fallen asleep rather soundly in the cart. He's curled up around a javelin, snoring, his platinum coin clutched tightly to his heart. He looks so peaceful, it's almost like a different creature entirely than who you saw at the keep earlier. Ginger just nibbles gently at the grasses growing near the base of a tree.
Atriox resists the temptation of the stew despite how delicious it smells. He snorts and looks at Alrik
"What do you Alrik? Should we proceed or rest?"
Alrik stares from under his hood for quite some time at the strange man. Folding his arms across his chest, he finally speaks, calling out from a distance, "I like to know a man's name before I share his fire..."
He tips his floppy red hat back, staring over with a playfully serene look. "Tommy is the name, my boy." He takes another puff on his pipe.
He leans forward, scooping up a ladle of soup into a hand carved bowl. He relaxes again, having a bite himself. "Seems like you boys have had a time of it, haven't you? Hmm..." He muses to himself, somewhat rhetorically.
Atriox Grunts and gives a nonchalant smile. "You could say that Tommy"
Atriox moves a bit closer. "We've just come from the fort we have. They've employed us to track and find out all we can about the local Kobolds. Speaking of could I get my little friend a bowl of stew?"
He nods emphatically, his mouth full. He makes a motion with his spoon toward the pot. "Of course, but of course. I always make too much. Eyes bigger than my stomach you see."
He gestures with his bowl and hands you three more. "This here will be plenty for an old fool like myself, you and your friends are welcome to as much as you wish."
Upon filling the bowl and bringing it to Tak, the kobold rouses and rubs his eyes sleepily. He peers over the side of the cart at the man, slumps back down, and sniffs the meal you've presented. (18 investigation)
He doesn't seem at all suspicious, which is a bit surprising. He digs right in, ravenous, no spoon needed.
Once finished, he holds the bowl in his teeth, climbs out of the cart on all fours, and slinks over to the fire. Kobolds are cold-blooded after all. Tak looks content and sleepy still and is out again in less than a minute. You stifle a yawn just watching him.
Tommy chuckles. "My, my, what an interestin' little friend of yours... I'm sure he'll be a fine guide here in Tanglewood."
Alrik, finally satisfied that this stranger isn't trying to kill them yet, walks to the other side of the campfire as him and sits down, rubbing his legs. Still keeping his hood pulled low over his face, he produces the bronze case again. "Damn, running low. Have to pick up some more when we get back..." he mumbles as he pulls one of the three remaining cigarettes from the case. Lighting it in the usual fashion of small sparks arcing between his fingers, he leans back and blows a smoke ring that sparks and flashes as if rather than a smoke cloud, it's a storm cloud
Tommy looks jovial. "What a fantastic trick that is, lad! Mighty fine. It ain't gonna put out my fire, is it?" He chuckles, ladling out a bowl of stew for you both.
Alrik blows a puff of smoke out his nostrils, this time the smoke has lightning arcing throughout it. "I'm not picky... whatever they sell at the shop. I picked these up before I sailed here."
Alrik blows a puff of smoke out his nostrils, this time the smoke has lightning arcing throughout it. "I'm not picky... whatever they sell at the shop. I picked these up before I sailed here."
He nods wisely. "The port south of the Komodori Desert, right? Copperport grows all along the coastline there... The Court of the Magi takes good care of the area. Too hot for me though..."
He grunts as he sits up, turning toward his mercantile chest. Up close you can see it is hand carved from a single piece of hard wood. It must have been a huge tree... With a clap of his hands, it opens on its own. Tommy pulls out a small paper package sealed with a wax stamp and hands it to Alrik.
"You can try a sample of these, if you'd like. I have more to take into town, but," he points at the emblem, a hawk, "They're cigarettes from up near the crags. Redhawk nectar, they call it." He grins. "Smooth and sweet, like honey."
"Much finer stuff than that tar-like aftertaste Copperport is known for... That's why they added in the Greystone I'm sure."
He smiles over at the dragonborn with a glimmer in his eye. Patting the soft grass, he adds, "You care for smoking as well? I see you make your own, clear enough..."
"Appreciate it." Alrik dips his head in thanks, opening the small package and adding the cigarettes one at a time to his bronze case.
"Of course, of course." He waves his hand like it is no big deal. The chest closes on its own without a sound. He starts talking. It's gentle and lulling, like listening to the drone of the sea or cicadas in a forest. "This road used to be full of merchants, traveling up from north to south, east to west. The forest was different then too, greener back then. Strange how times change. But they don't really, now do they? Aren't we rather the same as ever anyone was? Dealing with wars, peace, travel, work, life and death. It's all good in the end..." he continues for a while in the drowsy smoke.
Atriox nods to the man and sits down. "Aye I'll take a smoke. Thank you."
Atriox looks around at the forest "it's sad what this forest has become. How many people have died here. It’s almost as if the forest has a sickness to it. We will see if we can make it a better place or at least scout out what's causing all the issues."
His looks serenely happy. "You are an astute, perceptive individual, Atriox. It would be a fine thing indeed if you could do that for this beautiful forest." He tamps in some fresh herbs and hands you his pipe for a smoke. You both relax, at peace, and enjoy the company and the food.
The stew is very hearty and fills you up. There are some sweet spices in the stew you can’t recall ever tasting before, and they mingle beautifully with the broth, cream and tender vegetables. As you sit against a log and begin to shut your eyes the merchant speaks to you again, droning on about various things.
“...the forest is beautiful after all. But I know a lot of people don’t trust the...person... that lives in the cottage. They'll say it’s a ghost, or a witch. But I can tell you, of all the time I have been travelling through the grove, which mind you, is a VERY long time, countless years... never once has harm come to me or has it threatened me in any way... I think perhaps the small-minded towns folk are making these rumors, because of its appearance. But then, who knows of its motives or why it lives there. None of my business really. All I can say to you is, if you go that way deeper in the woods, might want to be careful, I suppose…” and with these words, you gently fall asleep.
After a short rest you wake to a mildly chilly pre-dawn. You see the merchant has packed up and left, the campfire barely smoldering. Other than the embers... there is no sign of him having ever been there.
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