Frozen from horror, your eyes open. It's morning. There are two kobolds on your lap.
Atriox looks at the two kobolds in his lap so to speak. He's curious how this came to be but doesn't care to much. He cant help but yawn, he tries to stifle it but he still makes a small roar.
The two wake with a start, surprised at the noise. Vele squawks in embarrassment, then also because she notices Tak so close to her. Without thinking she shoves him roughly away. He's unable to catch himself and tumbles to the floor with a clatter.
He lets out a mishmash of koboldian curses, mumbles something about having work to do, and grabs his gear on the way outside.
Atriox looks at the female kobold with a mix of amusement and confusion
"Now what.......pray tell was that all about little one ? Why on earth did you push Tak off ? If one of you is going to invade my space why not both of you hmm ?"
She looks shocked, letting out a little embarrassed whistle. Slipping off your lap, Vele grabs the end of her tail and slinks back a little. "N-nothing. Just, thought we should get up if our leader has awoken. I will go prepare more of the camp for you."
(18 deception.. Wow didn't think she'd roll so high XD)
With a stiff bow she quickly skuttles off. Not even seeing the kobold headed her way, she almost runs right into the thin lithe fellow. "Hey hey hey watch it! He hops around her, trying to keep his momentum up.
Arriving at your chair the kobold smirks, "Hey, have this for you! From Darr. From some soft skin." He gives you a scroll with a bag tied carefully to it. The wax seal on it looks impressive.
"Got it yesterday, but ran into trouble in the woods." He shrugs, and you notice blood on his clothes. Aside from a cut on his arm he himself looks fairly unharmed.
Atriox takes the scroll carefully looking at it in detail for a moment before flicking his eyes back to the messenger
"Good work. Feel free to drink from the fountain and heal your wounds then after a short break return to your tasks soldier."
The kobold salutes, turning on his heel in a very exaggerated manner. After a long pull at the fountain he heads out to the camp.
You break the seal on the letter, setting the small bag in your lap as you unroll the missive.
Atriox begins to read the Letter. Admittedly he didn't know what to expect but as it turns out he would have never predicted what was in his hands. After he reads the letter three times over he opens up the bag.
In the bag you find a precious stone glinting up at you. The shimmering gem radiates with a soft magic, and looks just like the one that was in Etny's coronal.
Atriox holds the gem in his hand debating everything that he just read. His animal instincts tell him to say no to peace and to continue the fight. The darkness inside him turning. For a brief second his eyes flash red and he just sees blood everywhere.
He has no idea what just happened. He runs his eyes and shakes his head a little trying to snap out of it. He feels his morality come back and knows that he must accept this peace.
There is to much going on to afford infighting and truth be told he must admit he's partially to blame. He does not truly want to kill the huntress........much. But her promise of gold is a half promise at best. He may never actually claim what is promised so until it is he will keep the gem safe with him.
Deciding to check on the progress of the other rooms the kobolds have excavated, you travel down the main hall to the north. A few flit in and out of the way with buckets of rocks, and there is a t-intersection at the end. You try the left first, ducking under a support beam.
Entering this room there is a blue granite statue. The male figure seems elven in nature, perhaps just a piece of art. You can't gauge any special significance from it. However you notice a shining stone in his hand. Brushing away the dirt you pry it out. Now clean, it seems to be a peridot worth about 100 gold.
Heading the other direction you find a small cavern with a pool. The room is very dark, but... somehow not as dark as you'd expect. Your eyes pick up more light than they normally would, you think.
Brushing your hand across the mirror surface of the water, you reach down into the cold depths. Along the rocky bottom you feel an unknown object. As you lift the object up out of the water, you realize it is a severed skeletons arm. Its hand is clutching something--some strange amulet.
Atriox examines the strange necklace
It gives off a magical aura. You feel a little stronger while you wear it, as if it is threading strands of the weave around you.
Vele peeks in at you, trying not to startle you. "Sir," she clears her throat. "We've something for you downstairs. Would you be able to spare a moment?"
Atriox looks at her then back at the necklace. He pockets the trinket and looks back at Vele
"Of course. Lead the way"
She hops up a little then skitters back out the door. Following her footsteps, you're led down the spiraling staircase to the rooms below.
You can tell that there's a lot more that's been excavated since you've last been down here. The treasury room has all of the hoard you took from Tyranus, as well as other bits and pieces from the Fang. A few other kobolds see you and skitter about, laughing and cackling delightedly.
Vele grins. "We have stripped down the skull of Tyranus." The others hold up a large section of the skull, the headplate, snout and teeth cleaned of all the flesh. One of them sees a rot grub crawling along it, one that they used to clean the head with, and quickly flicks it away. The skull is gleaming white like snow. Another piece lays nearby, the jawbone of the creature. Both are twined with supple leather straps and beads. The headpiece is made to hang on your shoulder and the jawbone, over your tail as armor.
Atriox looks at the armor in shock and appreciation. He approaches the set and runs his hand along it, appreciating the smoothness of it. Finally he looks away and at Vele
"Would you please help me put this........beautiful armor on Vele ? I want to see what it looks like on me. I want to look the part that you all expect of me."
She looks a little flustered and nods shyly. Hopping up on a broken pillar, she deftly straps the armor across your shoulder, then one around your waist to decorate your tail. It's an intimidating display to say the least.
Atriox stretches and tests how the new armor fits his body. He growls deeply.....but the kobolds can tell from Atrioxs smile...albeit a scary very sharp toothed smile it's a good growl.
"My loyal soldiers.....this is a great gift you have made me. I will treasure it and wear it proudly. Vele may I talk to you about something? I wish for myself to have a private chamber to sleep in here at the temple. I will be staying here on a more.....permanent basis for awhile. Do you think you could let me know if you and your men uncover a room that would work as such ?"
Vele nods emphatically. "Yes, most definitely sir." She looks a little enamoured at your new armor and how intimidating it makes you.
You head back outside into the fresh morning light. It's slightly cloudy, the heat of summer waning. Crows caw in the distant trees, and the sounds of the kobolds feasting on a fresh deer carcass fill the air.
Tak spots you, nodding at the armor. He looks tired. "Looks good... Need anything? Going back to camp soon."
Atriox looks at Tak.
"Why are you being so moody brother ? You have proved yourself capable time over and she still has a while till she's anywhere near you. While I trust her to do her job you are my family. Not Vele. Now have you seen my horse anywhere?"
Tak blinks, puffing up his chest a little. "T-Tak knows that. Been here longer. Know what I'm doing." He licks his lips. "Keeping horse at other camp. This camp... They like horse. Ate one already. You need? I bring to you or you wish come with?"
Atriox thinks on it then decides going with Tak will be faster even if he has to backtrack a little.
"I'll come with you little one."
Tak nods. "Alright." He hops on his felldrake and lets you jump behind him. He heads down the path at a fast, slithery pace.
"The armor does look good." He scratches his scales as he looks you over again. "You look like a tribesman."
Atriox chuckles
"I'll take that as a compliment. Now. You and vele MUST get along. You MUST be able to work together Tak. Leaders need freinds. Vele Is no ordinary kobold, plus she's a female. Your kind do not often promote female leaders ehh ?"
Tak is quiet for a while. The weaving and bobbing of the mount is hypnotic, and quite unlike riding a horse.
"We do work together. She help Tak with traps. Teach me tricks. Females not usually leaders, no. They can fight, viciously. But also..." he trails off. "I... don't know."
Atriox puts a hand on Taks shoulder
"Trust her. Help her. And she will do the same for you. Trust me. I've never lied to you Tak"
He stiffens. "Y-yes. Alright... I know. You being helpful. You're a good leader."
He looks down at the reins. "I'll try for you. She just... I feel strange around her. She make smart things. She talk smart. She obviously like you lots, trying butter you up."
He pulls on the reins. The felldrake stops. You're in a deeper part of the forest now. "Here. I show you something sacred."
Tak hops off, his eyes averted. He walks toward a small grove of trees.
Atrioxs follows him a bit confused but also intrigued
He slowly approaches a young sapling. You wouldn't have even noticed it if he hadn't been with you to point it out. In front of it is a cairn of white rocks. Tak kneels gently beside it, placing a claw atop.
Atriox approaches slowly
"Is this the final resting place of your family brother ?"
He bows his head. "Tak stop to see them sometimes. Brought them here... Peaceful place."
He runs his claw down the rocks. "O-one of our eggs had hatched. When... That day came. Tak was a-a father for few hours. So much fighting a-and fire... Scooped him up and ran. The smoke was so bad... It too much for him. He took last breath in my arms."
He shudders. "Trying to be good leader. But Tak remember that and it makes me doubt. Makes me doubt every choice. Being around Vele hard, Atriox. Reminds me of... Of Wren. She smart, capable. I'm..."
He lets out a sob and curls up. The facade of toughness shattered. "Tak jealous when she sleeping with you. You MY family now. B-but sleeping with you... both you, n-near her... It felt..." Tak can't seem to talk anymore. He looks full of guilt, feeling like he's disappointing you. Like he's betraying Wren.
You recall a memory from your childhood, Atriox. How the kobolds you played with always liked sleeping with others. They would share warmth and protection in their nests.
But you've only ever seen Tak sleep alone. Almost purposefully isolating himself.
The realization hits you... How much that probably meant for him to trust falling asleep beside you. And to try sharing with Vele.
Atriox feels a tear slide down his cheeck uncontrollably. He can't ever remember a time when he cried..........except for the night that he lost everything. Atriox remember crying as he stood on hill in the night......watching his home burn. Atriox stands there for a moment as he's bombarded with emotions. Finally he gets it together enough to kneel down by Tak and put a hand on his brother's shoulder
"I am honored to be your family Tak. You are a good person. A great leader in the making. As for Vele.......all I can say is I doubt Wren would have ever wanted you to be unhappy. Now there is no shame in being alone after you loose your partner as long as you can be happy that way. Now there is shame in holding back and forcing yourself to be alone when........you cant be happy that way Tak. If you need a partner to share your life with......if you need to have more children someday......that is nothing to be ashamed of. Only you will know what makes you happy and when you may be ready to move on. Until then do not push Vele away Tak. You can be freinds. Like you and me. Just because she's a female doesn't mean that's not possible."
(Persuasion 24 mmmm yeeeeet! ❤)
Tak takes a deep breath and shudders out a sigh. His claw trembles on the grave stones, and then... quietly slides off.
"You're right. Tak think Wren would be happy to learn I made friends. T-that I'm trying to be a leader." He swipes his eyes across his arm and staggers to his feet.
He can't seem to meet your gaze, but you feel the sincerity in his voice. "You're a good friend, Atriox."
Fetching the felldrake, the kobold climbs back on and adjusts the skeletal helmet on his head. "Thank you for the chance to prove myself. And..."
He pauses, turning his head to the side to speak. "And for giving them a chance to meet you."
Atriox trys to return himself to normal. Wiping away tears and straightening himself up he follows Tak and gets back on
"Theres nothing to thank me for. You've gotten yourself to where you are not me and it was my honor meeting them."
He nods at the grave
Tak grips your hand tightly for a brief moment. He can't seem to bring himself to speak again.
Setting a face of resolve, he spurs the beast into action. The two of you rocket off through the woods and arrive at the camp without issue some time later.
Atriox hops off looking at all the troops around him doing there different tasks. He looks back at Tack
"How are the troops doing ? Hows there training going ? I ask because I think instead of waiting for our enemies to attack itd be better if we made the first move. Lead them into a few traps. Then attack with our full force. If we let them make the first move, the longer we wait, the more casualties we risk. I'd rather have a clear victory than a sad one. But some death on our side of course will be unavoidable."
Tak looks out across the bustling hive of activity. "Training is going well. They're strong. Good diggers and throwers. What kind of traps are you thinking?"
Atriox watches the troops
"I showed Vele where I want some underground trenches dug. They will have a multipurpose job. Itll make it easier for our boys to move around and sneak attack the enemy. We could also probably lay some traps throughout the trenches, My plan is to send a mixed unit of human and kobold troops to lure the enemy out. We will then fake a retreat and lead the troops into a ambush. We should cut off the path behind them at that point......perhaps a wall of fire ?"
Tak considers the suggestions, the wheels in his head turning. "That sounds very clever... We could get some of that in place. How soon do you need it done?"
Atriox barely blinks before he replies.
"As soon as possible, you have days Tak. Coordinate with Vele. Move scout patrols around and into Whitebirch. Give the orcs something to think about, it may give us the distraction and time we need to get our surprises done. Tell Vele to get creative....she's good at that stuff. I need to get to Stonebreak outpost and then back to Dragonshore. I have a lot of details to go over before everything is ready."
He nods. "A-alright. Will make sure we get as much done as possible. Tak will... coordinate with Vele." He signals a few others to round up the horse you borrowed from Stonebreak to make your journey there as quick as possible.
"Will get troops moving now. If you need find me, will be stationed at the burned house north of town." Tak looks up at Atriox, nervous but determined. "You can trust me."
Atriox mounts up then looks at Tak with a smile
"I know brother, I know. I'll see you soon."
Atriox spurs the horse into action and heads for Stonebreak.
The horse moves quickly, the thundering hooves powerful against the packed earth of the trail. You can see the mountains up ahead, and the pass which the Stonebreak Keep protects. Within an hour you arrive at the gates, your horse foaming and chomping at its bit as it catches its breath.
Guards approach, helping take your horse and leading you in. Commander Knox Ironfist steps out to greet you almost immediately. "Atriox! What a surprise." He looks you over, rather taken by the state of your improved armor and lordly looking stature. "You look ready for battle."
Atriox holds his hand out to shake.
"You might be more right than you think Commander. I have some news to share, perhaps we should go look at a map ?"
"Absolutely. This way." He turns and walks with you into his office, signaling Donovan to come with them. Once inside they close the door. Knox approaches the map on his wall with his hands clasped behind his back.
"I suppose your news is not good news... what threat are we looking at, dragonborn?"
Atriox grunts
"Mixed news actually. Last time we spoke I told you of this orc threat. We thought they were camped here (Atriox points to Stonbreak mines) but we have since learned that they somehow slipped through our fingers and have made camp here. (he now points to Whitebirch on the opposite side of Dragonshore.) That's the bad news. The good news is we know about it in advance. I actually fought the orc cheiftes the other day........shes a clever fighter. This will not be easy. But I think we have a solid plan.....a plan that will require you and your men of course."
He points on the map in several places showing the Commander and Donovan what he has in mind and where itll happen.
"Interesting... Very interesting. The fact that you were able to survive and live to tell us of this impending threat... It has truly turned the tide of what would be a bloodbath upon the city."
The commander paces around the room. Donovan stands in the corner, a little ashen faced and thoughtful. Ironfist stops. "Then it's settled. We will send a battalion of men as soon as we can to help defend the area around town. You'll have at least two hundred soldiers at your back. We will protect the city at all costs."
His eyes glowing brightly, the talk of war stirs a battlesong within his heart. "I will be proud to fight alongside you and your compatriots. Let's give them hell."
Atriox claps the man on the back good naturedly and gives Donovan a smile.
"They will wish that they were in hell by the time we are finished with them. Have your men at the outskirts of the city in two days commander. That evening will let loose our wrath upon them."
Ironfist lets out his signature loud laugh. "Sounds good, soldier. We shall make ready and see you there."
Donovan walks you back out to the main gate, a contemplative look on his face. "You and your friends sure have made big changes here, Atriox." He shakes his head and claps you on the shoulder. "It'll be an honor to fight next to Alrik again, like in the old days. Oh! Did you need a horse, or will you be walking back?"
Atriox gives him a sheepish smile
"I could use a horse.......if it's not to much of an inconvenience to you boys. I'm in a bit of a rush. To much to do in two days and all. Would you mind ?"
The lieutenant shakes his head. "Not at all. We got a new one saddled up for you." He gives a whistle and a soldier brings one out, a chestnut brown. "We'll be seeing you again soon enough, friend."
Atriox mounts up and lifts a hand in farewell "indeed freind. I will give Alrik your greetings and excitement. Till the battle Donovan."
Atriox rides off torwards Dragonshore
After a few hours riding hard through Tanglewood, you arrive at the edge of town. Already you can see kobolds at work along the parameter of town, and many more are mobilizing out on the field. They hide well, but you can tell by the soft flickers of color that they are moving amongst fresh new burrows.
It's close to night by the time you reach the town square, slowing your horse to a trot.
You realize you haven't had anything to eat all day. It seemed like your appetite was completely forgotten with how much you had on your mind. Even still you aren't terribly hungry. You mostly feel.... thirsty.
Shrugging off the feeling you trot your horse through town, looking for anyone else you know. Not seeing any familiar faces, you turn the beast up toward the northern roads. It's time to check on those orcs you left in the forest...
It takes a little time but you manage to find your way up the path you took with Oxious and then later with Vele. There is still no sign of the tiefling anywhere, and the fact of that irritates you to no end. You're not sure why you would be left there, unless they took you for dead and he was still of some use alive to them.
The clearing is definitely burnt from your fire, and the orcs... gone. You look around and see the tell-tale signs of new boot prints, relatively fresh. Oddly enough the outlines of the tracks almost glow in the moonlight. Your eyes feel sharper than they have been of late.
Your nose twitches with the smell of something nearby. You feel eyes watching you.
Atriox stays calm and dismounts slowly. He ties his horse up and goes to the middle of the clearing. He straightens his head up and gives a good long growl before saying in a low menacing voice.
"I sense you out there.....who ever is watching......make yourself known or make yourself scarce..... now!"
You see movement amongst the trees. An orc, almost a little taller than you, steps out from the foliage. His tucks are long and curved, accenting his pale blue skin and yellow eyes. A scar runs across his neck as if someone had tried to slit his throat once and failed. When he speaks, it is raspy like gravel. He uses a broken common.
"You the beast that slew our brothers?"
More orcs appear behind him, leering through the forest at you. More than you faced before.
"The one who desecrated their bodies and arranged them here? Set fire to the woods as a sign?"
He advances slowly toward you, his presence accentuated by the blood stained armor and the blackened steel broadsword at his hip.
Atriox growls in a little bit of a warning
"And what if I am ? Have you come to avenge your fallen brothers ? You might kill me.......but I will take you all with me and burn this forest to the ground before I die."
The orc flashes a twisted smile, more of his teeth showing stark against his skin. He looks utterly bestial.
"My men and I... wished to find the one who slew the others. We heard the story from the wizard. He thought you were dead."
He circles you slowly. "But then we found the fire. The note. It intrigued me... Dorokor does not mark someone for death and not follow through. How did you survive?"
---
Alrik... You wake. Your eyes glow slightly in the dark gloom of pre-dawn.
You don't see Tucker anywhere in the room. His bedroll is messily tied up and stuffed in the corner. A half eaten loaf of bread sits on your makeshift table.
Alrik hurriedly grabs his gear and dresses then steps outside, looking for Tucker or any signs of him. (Bleh.... 7 perception. Lol)
You step outside and see a fire already going, but no Tucker.
Suddenly he leaps beside you, having been sitting on the roof and jumping down upon your exit. He is escatic and holding a bowl full of grapes. "ALRIK! Try this! Hurry before it wears off!" He practically pops one in your mouth.
Instead of grape it tastes like... Pineapple? A very gamey pineapple.
Alrik wrinkles his nose as he chews the odd flavored grape. "You're getting there, kid! A little off, but that comes with practice. That musty taste they have must be your magic seeping into them..."
Tucker shrugs. "Better than what they tasted like earlier! It's working though, that's all I care about. I'm stoked... I'll keep practicing, I just need to go pick up some more fruit later. After... well..." He trails off, thinking of his friends.
"I hoped maybe those other weird friends of yours would have some clues. But... I don't know. I'm at a loss of where to look for Sarah and the others now."
"I know, lad... let's head into town and ask around about that apron. Maybe someone recognizes it."
You both spend some time preparing your gear and you head into town, the apron wrapped carefully in a bag. Spending a few hours going business to business, you ask questions of the locals and try to pinpoint what type of apron it is.
It doesn't seem like a baker's apron, as you try the bakery first. It's much too dark and soiled for the kind of work they do. Several people think it looks familiar, and it is finally clear that it is some kind of laborer's apron. Perhaps a tanner, smith, cobbler, or someone who works down at the docks. It's a common item that may laborers in Dragonshore use, but...
It does seem to match someone in town. You both feel unnerved.
Alrik scowls, kicking the dirt as he explains to the boy when the reconvene in the town center and swap information. "Tucker, you know of anyone with a dog in town? Maybe a hunter who uses his hounds to help him track animals?"
He thinks to himself. "There are a few trappers that stop in the market from time to time. They usually have hounds. You think they could help?"
His eyes light up eagerly. You both start to head that way, and happen to bump into someone familiar on your walk. Olohand and Nathaniel look surprised to see you. The old man has a stack of papers in his arms, and his security is carrying a basket in one hand full of scrolls.
"Oh hello! Nice seeing you again storm mage! It's been some time." He almost drops his papers as he tries to shake your hand. "What a time it has been, what a time... I had Nathaniel head out with me to my house to pick up a few more things."
He leans in and whispers, "Have... you seen Oxious anywhere? He hasn't come back for a few days. I'm starting to worry."
"I have not. Young Tucker and I have been staying in my cabin the past few days rather than in town."
He nods, a little lost in thought. "Hopefully he turns up again soon." He and Nathaniel wave, the latter letting out a loud yawn, and they let you go back to your business.
Heading into the market you find one of the stalls Tucker was talking about. There's a trapper selling various snares both rope, twine and metal. Tied up near his booth is a pair of bloodhound looking creatures. The dogs pant in the heat, sniffing and growling at passers by.
Alrik approaches the hunter, pushing his hood back. "Greetings houndmaster!"
The man turns to face you, a grizzled looking ex-soldier with a very scarred, wrinkled face. His smile cracks as he speaks. "Why hello there! You and your son there looking to do some hunting? I've got all the supplies you need... The hills along this coast are rich in game, you just gotta go find it... Guaranteed to catch."
Alrik looks at Tucker and smirks at the remark. "Actually my apprentice and I are hoping you and your hounds could be of use to us... the boy here lost one of his friends. We found him, murdered in the forest. We want to find who did it..."
He reaches into his bag and pulls out the carefully wrapped apron. "We found this nearby. We are guessing the blood is Rufus's, but I hope your dogs can pick up on the scent from the apron... maybe the part that goes behind the neck..."
Alrik places a hand on Tucker's shoulder, giving him a sad look before looking again at the hunter. "Some of his other friends are still missing... I'll make sure you are properly compensated for your time, as well as for your dog's."
The man strokes his chin. "Murdered children? That's disgraceful... let me see..." He takes the apron, handling it carefully. He passes it to the dogs who take a good sniff of the leather. They both become frenzied with the blood spilled on it, and begin to grunt and howl, tugging at their leashes.
The trapper looks shrewdly at both of you. "The name is Fenris. I'll hold you to your word. Let's hunt." He unhooks his dogs, Gripping their leashes in a muscular arm. They tug and pull, definitely on some kind of trail.
He leads you through town, the dogs sniffing up and down every street, ally and building. They bay and howl at times, rushing forward here and darting there.
They finally stop at one place in particular, not one you were expecting.
The blacksmith Ferrar's shop.
Alrik enters the shop, trying to keep his calm. "Ferrar, you in here?"
Ferrar comes out from the back of the shop, wiping his hands on an apron. "Oh hello Alrik! Fine seein' you. I was just out back with Ginger for a moment. Lunch time for the both of us, ha. How's the armor holding up?" He beams, his eyes looking tired and bloodshot. He doesn't seem like he's had much sleep lately.
The trapper stands outside, the dogs sitting and whining at the door. They paw and snort at the ground, rather antsy at the whole endeavor.
Alrik nods, swallowing hard. "It's holding up great, thank you... but that's not the reason I'm here. There's a bit of a.... delicate situation, I'm afraid. Do you recognize this apron?" He reaches out the door and takes it from the hunter.
The blacksmith furrows his brow and tentatively takes the apron in his hands. "W-what is this?" He runs his calloused hands over it, feeling the material. "It looks the same color as one of... one of Leo's. Why does--why is it covered in blood?" His face blanches, and he's almost white as a sheet.
Staggering back he slumps into a chair, holding it. His hands shake. "Where's my son? Where did you find this!?"
"We found it in the forest... it was near the body of one of Tucker's friends. It wasn't your son, but the boy has friends still missing..."
The man lets out a sob, clutching it to his heart. "Oh my dear boy..." Shaking his head, he looks at Tucker with wide eyes. "I-I'm so sorry, son. W-who is doing this, Alrik? Kobolds? Orcs? Goblins?" He looks in shock, having a horrible time processing everything that is going on.
"We aren't sure..." he looks at Tucker, placing his hand in his shoulder. "But we're damn sure going to find out... we'll find your boy, too..."
The blacksmith nods, trying to stifle his sniffing. "T-thank you. Thank you both so much. I'm eternally grateful to you all. Atriox has been looking for him since he's been missing, I... I wonder if he's found anything yet."
His eyes look like they're yearning for hope, scared of what might be on the horizon. "I just got a project from him I've been working on out back. It sounded urgent... something for a battle. I'll keep working on that in the meantime." He hesitates. "Let me know if anything else comes up... any news."
As you leave the blacksmith's shop, the trapper raises his eyebrow at you. "Well? Anything interesting?" The dogs sniff at your feet, weaving and tugging at their leashes. "Do you have further need of my services?"
"Not currently, Fenris. I will call for you should I need your services again. What do I owe you?" Alrik pulls out his coin pouch.
The man scratches his neck. "Eh, a gold is fine. Didn't have to go far."
Alrik drops two gold pieces into his hand. "Get your dogs a bone or something to chew on... call it their payment." He smiles and gives a curt nod. "Let's go, Tuck... we have to keep being proactive. You keep studying and practicing... I'll see if any of my Mage Guard contacts have any advice..."
Etny rises from her bed in the Dragon's Lair Inn, stretching noisily from the deep sleep she had received. The rays of the summer sun poke through the blinders on the window, lancing their azure beams throughout the room.
She throws the covers off and hops off of the bed, having grown fond of the comfort these bring to her, as opposed to a bedroll in the woods.
She recalls everything that happened the previous night, what with her overly emotional reaction to Oredion's need to journey on his own. Etny mentally kicks herself for acting the equivalent to a pining teenaged girl, wearing a delicate heart on her sleeve.
Etny spits on the ground in revulsion to herself, wishing she had been more wise and mature about her actions last night. She is determined to strive to be the woman Oredion OUGHT to have, and work on bridling her emotions a little more; at the very least to demonstrate to Oredion that she is capable and grown up.
With that thought, she exits her room, and comes downstairs to see the dwarf, Tank, Zeed, and Bitey enjoying their drinks and meals at the bar. She approaches them, seating herself next to Oredion, and waves at Janae for a drink.
Today, she muses in her mind, she hunts!
"How was the sleep cry baby?"
Oredion nudges her shoulder playfully and continues eating his food before him. He eyes tank still remembering being strapped to his back. He will never live that humiliation down, but he can't help but enjoy the big lugs simple company. He also knows he can knock back quite a few drinks before tapping.
Bitey remains focused on his food, listening and watching everyone in the tavern. He seems to be enjoying a very very rare steak and eggs. Zeed looks tired and happy, relatively good natured compared to a few weeks ago. Tank chuckles a little goofily under his breath as Etny arrives, trying to focus more on his meal.
Jannae greets Et with an enthusiastic hello. "Good morning, sunshine! Here's some porridge and juice for you." Setting it down in front of the huntress, she bustles over to clean some plates from the tables. The porridge is savory, seemingly made with cubes of rabbit--her catch from the previous night.
"Well, my dear dwarven companion, shall we hunt some big game today? My bow string is loath to snap at this rate of disuse!"
A smile plays at the corners of Etny's lips.
"That sounds good with me Et. As long as I don't break another arm on this hunting trip as well."
Oredion let out a deep chuckle and Pat's Etny on the back affectionately. He finishes his food and drink and heads up stair to grab all of his gear and a piece of jerky out of his jerky stash.
Joey hops on the table, licking the plate now that Oredion has left. He skitters across the counter looking for stray crumbs.
Etny, noticing the little lizard, tries her hand at playfully snatching at him, giggling as she attempts over and over again to catch the lizard.
(18 sleight of hand to catch the lil reptile! XD)
(13) Joey leaps out of your hand a few times but then is caught--perhaps on purpose--licking your fingers. He turns various shades of colors as if a kaleidoscope. Flecks of gold sparkle along his back and in his eyes, but it only lasts for a few moments.
Etny holds Joey gently in her fingers, and finishing the last bites of her porridge, makes her way upstairs to get her gear.
As she gathers get things, setting little Joey in a small cup, she thinks on the plight of this city. She can't tell exactly what it is in the air, but there is some sort of energy there that wasn't there before. The kobolds of Atriox continue to fortify and build around the city. People are abuzz with an activity that she hasn't noticed yet in this little town. It is...reminiscent of war time.
Once she has all of her things, including her bow, quiver, and poleaxe, she gathers up Joey again, and meets Oredion issue the inn.
"It seems, elenn, that your little companion here got separated, but don't fear: he's safe in my hands."
She smiled in anticipation. "Ready for the hunt?"
"Ready as I'll ever be! Ah I don't think he got separated he just likes your company now. He's probably sick of staying in my beard all the time."
Oredion let's out a laugh and continues out the door. He feels excited to have an actual hunt this time. He let's Joey stay with Etny for now hoping the little bugger likes the change of scenery. He gives a farewell wave to everyone at the bar as he leaves.
You both head north to Birchwood, wondering if any of your traps have captured something new. You know there are larger game animals there as well, but they would likely need to be tracked further into the forest.
(Both of you make survival checks for me)
(22)
(24)
It takes a few hours to hike up toward Birchwood, past the kobold troops around the city and past the burnt husk of a farmhouse. The road seems friendly today though, despite the memories of what happened in those woods before.
Once you arrive you check the traps around camp and pack up any residual items you left previously. You find three more rabbits along with a fox and a porcupine, all in fair condition.
After processing the animals as you see fit, you set up a base in the middle of your camp. Scouting the nearby area, you search for about an hour before you both come across some interesting tracks...
Etny, you find the tracks of a fair-sized elk on the western side of the forest.
Oredion, you find the tracks of a bobcat on the eastern side of the forest.
Etny turns to Oredion. "These are interesting. I think we should go after these elk tracks here. If it's a bull, then I suspect it will have good meat on it, and Janae-dera could use it for her dishes."
"What do you say?"
"I'll trust your instincts Et. I'm not to good at hunting myself. I'm much to clumsy."
Oredion chuckles and quickly and follows Etny's lead.
You both move forward after the tracks, pushing your way through some thick brush. You can see snapped branches and twigs from where the animal went by. It takes some time and careful footwork, but you manage to keep up with the tracks at a relatively easy going pace. They get fresher the further you go.
Finally... in the distance, you spot the animal. It is definitely a bull elk, with an impressive set of antlers. It's currently grazing by a stream, upwind of you.
Etny signals for both her and Oredion to lower themselves. Drawing out a thunder arrow, she takes aim carefully, slowly, deliberately with her bow. She draws back. (17 atk)
The arrow flies and hits its mark. Slicing through the animal's hide and right into a lung, it blasts the beast back off its feet. Disorienting it, the thing wheezes and staggers back up, trying to get its footing so it can run.
(Ore, you have just a moment to act--would you like to do anything before it tries to flee?)
Oredion rushes forwards as soon as the arrow hits its mark. As the elk gets up to its feet Oredion jumps upon it putting it into a headlock.
(14+7 Athletics)
The elk bleeds profusely from the wound, having a hard enough time breathing before the dwarf thunders his way over and grabs it by the throat. It's legs buckle from the force and it bellows as it goes down, choking from the incredibly tight grip and muscular strength.
After a moment the breathing ceases. You've both successfully taken down the bull, a massive animal well worth a fair bit of coin.
Etny had tried to restrain the dwarf, but when she sees how quickly he brings the struggling beast down in one go, she smiles. Coming out of her hiding place, she approaches both the dwarf and the dead bull elk.
"Nice work, there, elenn! I suppose wrestling a beast into submission like that is every bit as worthy as peppering it with arrows. You did well, I think!"
With that, Etny begins setting to work dressing out the animal. (11 survival, 23 athletics, both to dress it out and heft it around.)
"Yeah sorry bout that Et I though it was about to get away. Either way that was pretty fun."
Oredion gives a sly smile and goes to wonder near the stream and wash off the blood he got on him while Etny dresses the elk.
Your attempt at cutting up the animal goes well enough, but the size of the beast makes it rather tricky. By the end of it you have some very large, fine cuts of meat wrapped in cloth and the pelt of the animal, as well as a fine head and antlers that could be mounted if you wish.
"Ore-elenn, would you give me a hand with this? We are going to make some serious coin from Janae-dera! I am so glad you came with me, my friend. I really appreciate all you do, elenn. Really, I do. And...," she says hesitantly, not wanting to bring up anything uncomfortable, and yet feeling the need to, "...you don't need to worry about me, elenn." Her voice is kindly, soft, yet resolute. "I won't....I won't die anytime soon, you have that as a promise, the vision you had be damned!"
She plants a kiss on the top of his head, and smiles at him reassuringly. "While I yet draw breath, elenn, I will always be with you."
Oredion blushes and closes his eyes. He does not know how to take Etny lately. She seems to be more affectionate lately witch is surprising to him.
"Et what's up with all the kisses lately. Your making me a tad flustered lass."
Oredion moves by Et and picks up as much as he can carry. Slightly trying to show off.
Etny chuckles and shrugs. "Iiii...dunno. I guess you deserve it, elenn. You've shown me what it's like to have someone who truly cares...who listens, while not being afraid to speak his mind. I definitely appreciate that." Etny turns away and begins gathering her gear up, as well as starting to help with the gathering of the wrapped meat.
"Oredion-Antrahtu...when you came running after me, I honestly thought I would never see you again, that you were truly meaning to leave, whether sooner or later. My friend," she says, her voice wavering ever so slightly, "I thought I'd never see you again. Nevertheless, such is my nature...I..."
She stops again, turning and facing the dwarf, "I take things to heart, elenn, I really do. It is a curse of mine that I must dwell within for all of my life..."
Oredion places most of the meat upon his shoulders and turns towards Etny with a smile.
"Trust me lass I've learned by now you take everything too literally, but it is not a bad trait to have. If anything it's one of the things I like about you Et. As for leaving... it was selfish of me to not think about how you would feel being left alone... but I promise you Et I do not wish to leave you alone anytime soon."
Oredion feels a bit embarrassed at what he said, but he still looks into Etnys eyes with every word said.
Etny smiles then. Not a banal, or bland smile, but one filled with real intent and emotion. Her whole soul smiles with her at the dwarf, and she can't help but laugh as well, but it is not a mocking or jeering laugh. It is a genuine laugh of happiness and purity. Etny, for the first time in a long time, feels happy.
"Come, elenn, let us get this mess to the inn, and maybe we can get some drinks to celebrate!"
You both carry back the entire haul of elk, Oredion easily hefting the bulk of the animal. It's an impressive display of strength to say the least, the full animal weighing a fair 300 pounds.
It takes almost three times as long to return, but you arrive back by nightfall. Exhausted and aching from the journey, you drop the meat at the door outside The Dragon's Lair. Jennae walks out, completely blown away.
"My GOODNESS! You both have been busy haven't you!" She gives you both big hugs, signaling some of the servers to help carry in the load of food to the smoke room and kitchen.
She can't stop raving at how excited she is, and happily makes you both a large roasted chunk of elk and potatoes for dinner. She even sets out some of her hard cider for you both, a wink at Etny to take it slow and easy.
"Here's another twenty gold for each of ya, and room and board for the next week is free. I'll have one of the fellas in the market mount that antler rack for us too! What a beautiful animal! Along with the small game... You did exceptional. I'll be happy to pay for anything else you bring in."
Etny gladly takes the coin, stuffing it into her satchel, and, happy to finally have some of that, she reaches over to her mug with the hard cider in it. She eyes the drink at first dubiously, and then, swirling the liquid around in the glass, drinks it slowly, deeply, cherishing and savoring its taste.
(Make a con saving throw!)
(16)
The rich fruity burn of the alcohol is almost pleasant now that you're taking the time to enjoy it. It makes your stomach tingle, a much more subtle buzz than the first time you drank. It makes a fantastic pairing with the meal, the meat itself braised in some sort of apple cider glaze.
