You manage to head back to the Fang without too much mishap or running into too many people. From the way you hear the employees talking when you arrive, it's one of the busiest years thus far. Right now the facility is mostly empty but should be at full capacity tonight. You don't think you've ever seen the place sold out, but it most certainly is.
After a well-needed bath, which isn't as uncomfortable as it first was, you change into more appropriate attire. It's getting close to noon now, and you believe the others should be around the festival too. It would be a good time to touch base with everyone and really enjoy what moves this town.
You arrive at the festival, seeing many familiar faces. Like the others, you are bombarded with smiles and thanks. Everyone here knows the names of the heroes and there is no shortage of congratulations.
You wander the market, running into Petvin and Dahlia, and also Wilster and Janae. You even see Tak looking awkwardly around at all the people while Vele shows off her newest contraption--a very elaborate dunk tank.
Kids and adults line up with eager apprehension, throwing apples at a target and sending piles of blue kobolds splashing into a large trough of water. A few kobolds at a small booth are bartering and trading with strange trinkets they've made. Guards stand nearby to keep the peace between everyone.
You spot some of the other strange games, and dozens upon dozens of wreaths. You see a strange pie eating contest being prepared. A bolder smashing contest at which you spot Etny and Ore, and some kind of fishing game with the premade seaweed net decoration.
Atriox sees that he actually has some time to spare and heads over to Tak and Vele
Tak has a basket full of apples in hand and passes one to a boy in front. The kid tosses a copper to Vele and winds up a throw--
THUNK!
It bounces off the trough instead of the target. The kid groans and the kobolds on the platform cackle, more swarming to sit. It looks like a pile of at least seven or eight, all eager to splash in the water.
Vele spots you and her face splits into a very admiring, grateful grin. She rushes over, pushing past Tak who spins in a circle to keep on his feet.
She's more balanced than she used to be and her scales have healed. There's some kind of makeshift leather tail strapped to her waist helping her move.
"Atriox! Atriox! Would you like to try?"
Atriox chuckles at her excitment and is glad his people are having fun he pats her on the head and says
"Sure little one, sure I'll give it a try. I assume this is your genius invention then ?"
She blushes and a light embarassed whistle escapes her. "Yes, dragon prince."
Vele beams with pride. Tak just rolls his eyes at her gushing and walks up to hand Atriox an apple.
(Athletics check to hit the target, dc is 12. XD)
Atriox takes the apple and looks at the target. He chuckles at Vele and Taks equal amusement and annoyance
"Cheer up Tak. This is supposed to be funnnnn. You know what fun is right ?"
With that Atriox throws his apple
(17+4=21)
It smacks the target dead center. With a cheer and a course of yipping, the kobolds all tumble down with a resounding splash!
Tak chuckles seeing the fun the others are having. "Yes, yes... Tak know. It is fun." Vele smiles again and he looks away sheepishly.
Atriox chuckles
"You two are just to cute together. Good work on this game Vele. Very smart. Enjoy your evening little ones"
Atriox pats them both on the head and heads torwards were he is supposed to meet Cere
Vele wiggles happily from the praise given to her, jumping back into action and getting it all set up again.
Tak looks like he took a bite of something bitter, awkwardly grumbling in broken draconic as he turns to hand out more apples. He keeps glancing at Vele out of the corner of his eye.
You make your way to the town square where Cere is laughing loudly and wearing a grand cape of leaves. You see him entertaining a crowd and getting ready for a speech. Nearby you see your friends, the other Heroes of Dragonshore. People know your names and herald them among one another, retelling the exploits they know of (and some stories you don't, interesting takes on rumors you expect).
Cere spots you and beams. Shielding his eyes from the spotty sunlight and gauging the time of day, he decides it is time. Stepping up onto a well decorated box so he can be seen better by the crowd, he addresses the company with a booming voice.
"My fellow citizens and esteemed visitors of Dragonshore, welcome! Welcome to this year's annual Harvest Festival!"
There is a cheer among the people, toasts being given, small confetti being tossed in the air, noisemakers being jittered by children... he smiles. He looks at home here, at peace among his people. Squaring his shoulders, he continues his address.
"Although this is always a call for celebration, and celebrate we shall--" here he pauses again to a second chorus of cheers, "--it follows a somber period indeed, a time of great loss and tragedy."
The crowd quiets, listening carefully. "Having been beset upon by war and terror, those standing here today are blessed; those drawing breath in this beautiful summer warmth, enjoying the sea air, those who not but a month ago were holding their breath against the wave of darkness that engulfed us. And surely we would have drowned, were it not for the valiant efforts of those brave souls who fought to the last on the northern fields. Those men who gave their lives to save this land, this people, from certain doom."
Cere takes a deep breath, calming the memories. "And surely it would have been too late indeed even then, if not for the efforts of our brave heroes--those who lead the charge and kept us one step ahead of the enemy! Those heroes who defeated our foes before the dagger was at our back! Those heroes who saved men, women and children, indiscriminately--they feared no monster, they united us with common allies, who stand with us here today. Once enemies but no longer!"
The kobolds present, not all but a good number, look a mix of nervous and sheepish. The crowd is wary but definitely more accepting of these scaly neighbors now. A few orcs, those who were closer on relations with the peoples of Dragonshore, hold their heads high. Families embrace their loved ones who returned, or quietly dab tears away for those they knew that did not make the trip home.
Most noticeably of all the crowds part around you--our heroes--as Cere speaks your names.
"Hail to Atriox, the Unbroken Prince! Who even now wishes to ally his kingdom with ours, and help us grow into the greatest port city in all of Baralona! Long live the true king of Skyhold!"
A roar of cheers and elated surprise rushes through the crowd. You're surrounded and embraced, bowed to and covered in silks and flowers. Never in your life, even as a young prince, have you felt or experienced something quite like this. It is an overwhelming, joyous, intense feeling.
"Hail to Alrik the Tempest! Youngest and most noble of all the Mage Guard and the Court of the Magi! He who brought peace to our harbor as he brings peace to the world!"
Despite the number of people about you, they give you space out of respect and humility. All those around you bow or drop to a knee, honored to be in the presence of such a highly praised hero. You even catch the eye of Zinnia, hovering nearby with Oxious. She looks weak but happy, smiling and leaning on the tiefling's arm.
"Hail to Oredion the Bronze! The fearsome warrior of Radhal, slayer of thousands! Our enemies fell before his axe like a dead wood forest, burned in the wrath of his flames! May his blade forever be sharp and his eyes keen!"
"Hail to Etny the Huntress of Sossahl! Blessed be her bowstring and her sharp-witted mind, who helped not only defend our people but healed and fed those afflicted. Bless her heart to be strengthened a thousandfold!"
A group of revelry-goers surrounds Ore and Et, lifting the dwarf up on their shoulders. Etny laughs and smiles as she is hugged by a dozen children. The two of you covered with flowers and ribbons of every facet of the rainbow. Someone places a fanciful bearskin hat on Ore's head, even. Many townsfolk have seen you arm in arm today and fill the air with songs of love and admiration.
Cere allows the celebration to continue for a moment before concluding, "Here we officially dub this day, no longer the Dragonshore Harvest Festival, but in honor of those who fought and died for our freedom and the heroes who still hand with us today...
The Dragonkindled Harvest!
And those heroes here shall be decorated with highest honors--the Dragonkindled! Should you visit our fair city again you are free to go where you please. You have keys to our city now, honored guests. We appreciate all you have done for our people."
As the cheers roar again, Cere applauds with everyone else. "This evening as the sun begins to set, please join us in the harbor for the releasing of the wreaths. As every year past we shall continue with our tradition. All walks of life are included and encouraged to participate. Everyone, either individually or in groups may bring a floating wreath in whatever way you wish to present it. When the water is at high tide and still, we shall release them as an offering to the gods. As always, this is to thank the powers that be for the bountiful year, our health and safety, to mourn those lost, and to pray for the safe return of others. Bless you all, and a happy harvest!"
Cere bows, stepping down from the box with a smile. There is an excitement in the air as partygoers continue their festivities, or take turns greeting and thanking the heroes. You even hear a bard, one well known in town, strike up a hauntingly beautiful melody--a praise to your journey and accomplishments. Many start to sing along with him as he goes...
The age of old dragons has come and has gone,
Old Pyrlanth's grave filled the forest with song
The hum of the fireblooms peaceful and still
Glow with his blood and his gentle goodwill
White Birch in cinders brought forth Dragonshore
A beautiful city which our kind heroes bore
Safe from the danger, the dark and the cruel
Freed from the grip of dread necromance rule
Tak the Flamescar, who has shown us the might
Of dragonkin rallied to honorable fight
Spear in one claw and in the other, a sword
The kobold of legend has pledged us his word
Atriox the Unbroken, the undead hoard slayer
Uniter of races divided, soothsayer
Commander of both the arcane and the blade
By fate he brought hope and immeasurable aid
An heir to a empire rising from ashes
A phoenix, a dragon, his power is matchless
Etny the Huntress, the quick and the fierce
Andraya born, her arrows did pierce
The nameless foul horrors that beset our poor town
Rallied her hunting horn, our courage was found
Quick and precise, her traps laid our foes bare
Brought peace to our homeland, noble and fair
Oredion the Bronze, The unstoppable force
With his axe in his hand he bore forth our new course
Across the pitch, hear his might, hear his roar
Secured the freedom of all sick, weak and poor
His rage did ignite, his green power did fume
Against the impossible, an oncoming doom
Tucker the Brave, whose hope brought us all
The rescued, the lost, then witnessed the fall
Of that great monster let loose on the hill
He aided the culling, the night finally still
Alrik the Tempest, raging bright storm
Around whose presence the lightning strikes swarm
Came to our aid and withstood against all
A tremor of power from heavens did fall
Rent the battlefield nearly in twain
Tore asunder our enemies, evil's great bane
Dragonshore stands to this day because those
grand champions did thwart the evilest foes
May their names and their deeds forever stay strong
And inspire new heroes, our hearts and our songs
Cere pats you on the back as he passes. He seems quite thrilled with the response of the speech, and is still proud at the new title you used to address him eatlier.
A swarm of kobolds yips and yops their way through the ankles of antagonized crowdgoers. They run around you, jumping over and ducking under your tail, decorating you with some kind of gold paint-like powder.
Cere laughs. "You have quite a number of fans, don't you?"
Atriox grunts in amusement as the Kobolds do they're thing
"Apparently. Although I imagine anything is better than being a pawn for a crazed selfish dragon. You were to kind up there Cere."
Cere looks bemused about the comments concerning the dragon. "Yes I suppose so. And I only told the truth. I do strive to be honest." He chuckles. "My honor as a dwarf wouldn't dare otherwise."
His beard twitches as he grins. "Enjoy the party. If you need anything, at all, let me know." He shakes your hand, depositing something in it. When he pulls away, you see a silken yellow bag. Inside are pendants, five in total. They each bear the emblem of Dragonshore and an intricate key, cast out of pewter.
Atriox yells after the dwarf
"Thanks Cere ! You have fun as well ! Youve earned it !"
Atriox chuckles to himself as he looks at the keys in his palm. He decides to head over torwards Ore and Et to catch up and give them they're keys
Etny smiles and pats the children as they rush off. She can't help but chuckle and tossle the ears of the bear hat atop Oredion's head.
She notices Atriox's approach and straightens up, focused.
"Hello! Having a good day thus far?" Etny looks over your golden paint with mild interest.
Oredion turns to see Atriox and his smile perks up once again. He waves his hand as he walks over to the dragonborn.
"Heyo scale face. What has your dragon royalty been up to on such a joyous day."
Oredion pulls out his magic stein and starts to drink from it joyfully. A air of joy surrounds the dwarf.
Atriox chuckles at the Dwarfs merry making and amusement but can't help in hesitating for a moment. He looks around at everything going on
"In all honesty I wish I could appreciate this more than I am. No matter how much I try to enjoy myself my mind keeps wondering off. Preparing for what is to come I suppose. But I'm glad to see everybody getting along and enjoying themselves."
He looks back at them and is reminded of the keys he's holding
"Oh by the way I have something for you both. A thank you from the town so to speak."
Atriox takes two of the keys and gives them both one
Oredion takes the key in his hand flipping it over with interest. He looks to Atriox and then to Etny a little confusedly.
"What are these for prince boy? Dont tell me I got locked out of my house again..."
Oredion chuckles heartedly and a smile grows upon his rugged face. He thinks back to what Atriox initially said and looks at the dragonborn with mild concern. He leans in and gives Atriox a slug on the shoulder with little force behind his punch.
"Come now lizard face this festival is full of life and merry making. I thought I'd hate it or at least not enjoy it, but Et over here changed my mind. Now I get endless drinks for all my days to come."
Oredion smirks as he pulls out his Stein and takes a big gulp of the fluid that would normally almost drain a c ok container of the same size. He then proceeds to show Atriox of his new prized possession with a smile on his face.
Etny blushes at the kind words from Ore. She's sincerely glad he's been able to unwind and enjoy himself--that they all have.
Carefully taking the key from Atriox, she makes a polite, noble bow. "Harra, Angakresh-elenn. It is truly a break in the storms. I hope you get the rest you need before your quest continues. All of our quests, truly." Etny looks down carefully at the key, some unknown emotions mixing behind her eyes.
Atriox hears Etny and gives her a kind smile before laughing at Ores drinking
"Perhaps I should get one of those. I might have more fun as well. But alas someone needs to help Etny get you home when you can't walk anymore eh ?"
Atriox chuckles and returns the favor and punches Ore in the shoulder.
"Ore while i have you here in somewhat of a sober state....will you join Oxious and I in a few days time for a little job ? No offense Etny but this is a guys trip."
Etny snickers at Oredion's enthusiasm concerning his new magical mug. She nods to Atriox. "No offense at all. I need some time to prepare for the voyage as well."
Oredion looks to Etny and then to Atriox.
"Welp you heard her. She wants me gone for a bit to. So I suppose I'll go with your band of merryman when the time comes."
Oredion smiles at his own teasing words and continues to take a few swigs of his drink happily.
Etny looks taken aback, the joke going over her head. "No no, Oredion-elenn! I did not mean--of course I don't want you gone, I only meant--"
Seeing the twinkling mirth in his eyes she stops, the realization he was teasing slowly sinking in. She's beginning to get better at reading him, at least a little bit. More than she does with the jokes of other people.
"Ah, well I--yes, I hope you have fun on your adventure." The huntress pockets the key, fumbling slightly. "Just stay safe."
Oredion seeing Etny confused and flustering over his words makes him walk over and give her a tight hug. Once shes in his arms he looks up and speaks playfully.
"I was only kidding you big goof ball. I'll stay safe so dont you worry your pretty little head, besides the trips in a few days if I understood lizard breath over there well enough."
Oredion releases Etny from his vice grip like hug and backs away. He gives her a wink as he continues to speak.
"Its not like I'm going to almost die for the umpeath time again, hopefully, besides I have... compelling reasons to come back this time."
Oredion chuckles and looks around at the festivities once more. He takes a long swig and then takes a deep breath as he begins to speak joyfully.
"Now who's ready to enjoy this festival with me or must I tackle it alone." "No more spice eating contests though my stomach couldn't handle much more"
Oredion says the last bit quietly to himself and Pat's his stomach.
Etny smiles from the reassurances. "Okay, okay. I know I can trust you. And," She smirks, looking at Atriox, "We'd love for you to join us. I'm sure there's something fun we can all do!"
The signs and crowds around you show quite a lot. Unique shop stalls with wild goods; a fortune teller, hunched with age below a starry tent; the nearby bolder smashing games where cheers and booms echo. You also see signs for a fishing contest near the docks, a pie eating contest near the bakery, some kind of scavenger hunt or mental contest being hosted by Petvin at the temple. Off in the distance there is also an archery contest--sort of--fire breathing replaces the traditional bows and arrows. There's also some kind of construction competition down on the edge of town in the opposite direction--catapult like contractions launching pumpkins and goards.
Atriox chuckles before looking at Ore and pointing at the boulder smashing competition
Oredion follows Atrioxs finger to the boulder smashing competition. He gives a sly smile as he speaks while walking towards it.
"You could have used your words lizard brain, but I'm still game."
(Thanks for your patience guys, been a rough morning lol boulder smashing it is!)
The three of you approach the contest amid the roars and cheers. People part and make way for you, whispering excitedly and patting your backs as you pass.
"Ah, three new contestants!" says a tall, thickly built man with gray streaked, tawny hair and beard. You remember seeing him around town before; he's helped a bit in his own way with projects, but you never knew his name. Most recently he's been seen helping fortify the wall around town and build the foundation for the new guardhouse for the Dragonshore mercenary group.
He gestures to the ring that the previous participants are vacating. Large stone boulders have been set around, all about the same size and composition. They look as if they're from the mine up in White Birch. Greathammers sit about in the dirt, ready for use among all the debris.
"Game is simple! Groups of 4 come up and batter at their chosen rock! Give it up to 3 good swings. Whoever demolishes their rock the best wins!"
He holds up a shiny, razor sharp rock with lances of bright color through it. "We're handing out samples of gold sheened obsidian from up at the mine to the winners... Broke into a new chamber and found a whole seam." He grins. "Trying to get more interest for it out there. Can't wait to get the ol' beauty up and running again. You three wanna try?"
(Rules of this game are 3 attack rolls with the hammer. If you meet the strength DC of the rock (AC 12) you do 2d6 bludgeoning + Strength damage. Half damage on a miss. Highest total damage all together wins.)
A fourth fellow joins in, a stocky half elf with a chipped smile. With a wink at you three, mostly at Etny, he easily hefts up one of the hammers.
"'Ello there fellas. Good luck, eh?"
He takes a mighty swing, (16) clobbering the rock in front of him with a massive hit. It cracks clear down the middle. Spurred on by his success his second hit is a little lack luster, (4) but his final hit contains the rest of his force and power. He seems to want to show off for the crowd and the ladies. (19) (22 damage total between the three hits)
By the end of it his rock is mostly broken into three pieces, two larger and one smaller. He wipes the sweat off his brow and smiles, leaning on the hammer.
Etny raises her eyebrow and finds a hammer of her own. Feeling the weight in her hand, she tries to practice moving it through the air. Walking toward another rock, she takes a deep breath and exhales, bringing the hammer up and around and down. With a powerful CRACK Etny manages her first hit even better than the elf. (18)
He watches in surprise. A bit winded, her next swing manages to just chip away a bit more. (6) She looks rather exhausted from the effort, the hammer much heavier than weapons she is used to. Biting her lip, she readies up another swing and--with a prayer on her lips--she slams her weapon down. (12) (29 damage total)
With a smile and the cheers of the crowd to follow after, Etny stumbles back a step from her pummeled rock.
(23,15, 23. Aubs explained it.)
Etny and the half elf watch with the crowd as both the war-decorated dragonborn and the fierce bear of a dwarf pick their hammers and rocks from the quarry. Without hardly batting an eye, they both raise their weapons.
Atriox grip tightens as black shadows lick from his claws down the handle. It's a feeling he hasn't sensed for some time now, but it's like an old friend... old magic. The hammer slams down onto the boulder like a cannon blast. KABOOM! Instantly splintering, his second strike seems goaded by his first. Bringing the weapon back around it blasts into the ground even harder, half the rock turned to dust. The third and final hit rains pebbles down around him, glinting in the sunlight. The hammer hits the ground, still ringing, and the crowd roars.
Oredion's eyes blaze bright, a bluish green hue that Joey matches perfectly from within his beard. A mighty roar escapes him, almost feral, a sound of power and ferocity that causes some to gasp. At the height of the warcry his hammer connects, cracking not just the rock but the hard ground beneath it. Shock and awe wash through the crowd as the second strike hits, fracturing the boulder. With the drink and the excitement washing through him, and a trickle of nostalgia from his youth... the last strike obliterates. He slings the hammer on his shoulder and Etny beams with joy.
"WOW! Well, folks, I hate to say it but I think we have a tie!" The conductor can hardly be heard over the cheers and shouts and yips and yowls, (the latter of course mostly brought on by the kobolds). The half-elf who participated with you grumbles and shrugs nonchalantly as he makes his exit, Etny paying him absolutely no attention as she is as excited as the rest of the crowd.
Approaching you both, the bearded man smiles and withdraws two large, shimmering pieces of obsidian lined with golden streaks. They each come with a cloth to wrap around it to prevent them from cutting you. "Here you boys go! Mighty fine work you did. Mighty fine. If you were staying I'd ask you to help out in the mine! Haha..." He pats you both on the shoulder and turns to wave at the crowd. "Who would like to try next? Show the might of man and woman against the infamous White Birch mine!"
Etny walks up, beaming at you both. "Shiza! You two were really something! And what beautiful prizes... well earned I'd say." Her grin lingers on Ore for a moment longer, impressed with his abilities as always. She suddenly blushes and clears her throat.... not wanting to seem like poor company in front of Atriox. This day is going well, and she does not want that to change in the slightest. "Ora! What is next?"
Oredion looks around to all the other festivities with a twinkle in his eyes.
"You know I'm not sure what we should do next. How about we let our new tag along decide."
Oredion turns giving Atriox a wink and another slug to the shoulder. As he waits for Atriox to decide he carefully deposits the obsidian in his travel bag carefully. He then looks to Joey wiggling in his beard excitedly flashing all sorts of colors before settling on a bright orange. With a grin Oredion picks up his salamander friend and places him atop his weird hat.
Etny snickers, watching the happy salamander atop the bear ears. "Sounds fine with me," she pipes up with a smile.
Atriox chuckles at the two of them and they're cuteness before replying
"Aye alright then. How about we go check out them catapults eh ? Maybe we can toss Ore in one and launch him. He's so hard headed I'm sure he'd be fine."
Etny laughs a little, both finding it funny and also unsure of the seriousness of the statement. She somewhat subconsciously puts her arm around Ore's shoulders and stares at the sign pointing the way.
"It does seem a strange festival attraction, but yes... Perhaps we can see. Mr. Axemage did a fine job with the machine you found at the temple after all."
Oredion looks up smiling at Etny.
"I dont know Et. It sounds like a grand idea to me. I'm ready to be launched."
Oredion laughs as he starts to walk towards the direction the sign leads.
The three of you head toward the outskirts of town where you find a massive supply of lumber, tools, rope and all manner of materials. Being led by Ferrar, Donovan and Markas Dryadson, you see teams working to construct different machines.
Donovan waves you over, smiling. "Well hello there, out causing trouble?" He chuckles with a wink. "Great turnout this year I'd say."
Atriox laughs and claps Donovan on the back
"Indeed. In fact I came to see if you'd let me throw Ore here out of one of your catapults. But before that.....hows Ironfist doing ?"
Donovan shakes his head unabashedly, trying to find the words. "He's..."
After a moment he gives up, pointing to the far end of the field. There's one team working, being given rough instruction by a familiar face. It's most definitely Ironfist, sitting in a chair-like contraption. His iconic husky laugh and gruff voice carries well.
"He's salty... But finally conscious. Hopping pissed when he woke up. Still getting his strength back but insisted on coming out today. Sir Petvin very reticently agreed."
Atriox looks over at Et and Ore after listening to Donovan.
"Will you guys mind if i dissapear for a second ? I wont be long. I definitely need to see Ore go flying."
Donovan snorts. "I take no responsibility for injury... But let me find out some information before we launch you. Pick your poison," he chuckles, gesturing to the different catapults. "Whichever you want to ride."
Oredion laughs and waves Atriox away.
"Go for it dragon breath. I'm sure me and Et will be fine for a few. Besides I need to figure out where I'm flying to and if I can convince her to let me."
Oredion turns away laughing and takes Etnys hand in his. With a pleading look he starts to speak.
"Will you let me soar this day. I feel the birds calling to me."
Oredion tries to keep a straight face as he speaks, but cant help but chuckle.
Atriox laughs at Ores pleading and heads torwards Ironfist
Etny's mask of apparent worry cracks under the humor from her friend. She squeezes his hands, putting her forehead against his lovingly.
"Oh my darling Antrahtu, how you surprise me more and more. It's not the flying that worries me, it's your landing!"
She laughs, kissing his nose. "Ava nala de, dear Oredion... How can I say no to you? But how will this work?"She looks at the strange objects, watching with some trepidation.
"What, you sleeping on your feet? Fire it up, boy!" Ironfist's voice carries more easily the closer you get. He is definitely more crotchety at the moment... But you can understand why.
The last you saw him he was on his deathbed, an axe wound severing his spine as he lay in the blood and mud on the battlefield. You're still not sure on the specifics of how he survived, but it did not come without a price; he sits in a makeshift wheelchair of sorts, his legs paralyzed.
He looks at you and does a double take at your approach. "ATRIOX! Atriox, how are you? I heard news that you and Alrik took out the vile source of the armies? What a miracle it was..." he reaches up with one hand to shake yours, his left jerking slightly. It seems slightly affected by his nerves as well.
Atriox shakes the man's hand and while holding it bends down on one knee so that they are eye level.
"Aye we did. It was hard fought and bloody work but we saw it done. I'm so glad your alive. How are you friend ?"
He seems appreciative of your response. The men carry on their work as he speaks with you.
"I'm alive, I suppose." He tries to shift to relieve some discomfort. "My back feels like fire but I couldn't stand being in bed any longer. Ol' Ferrar and some... Small blue scamp... made this ridiculous thing for me to use."
He smacks the arm of it, creaking the metal. "Damned if I could look any more like some old geezer out of his prime... Pah! I still got fight left in me."
He eyes you, his expression hard but kind. "Are you doing well? I heard you and the others aren't staying much longer." There's a note of disappointment in his voice that he tries to hide. He's obviously become fond of both you and Alrik since you met.
Donovan returns, a funny smile on his face. Wilster Decanter, the alchemist, is with him.
"Sounds like an interest opportunity, eh?" You can hear him say to the skinny, twitchy elf. Wilster just nods with enthusiasm, smiling when he sees Oredion and Etny.
Atriox gives the man an encouraging smile
"Aye i reckon you do have some fight left in you. Maybe over time we will find ways to get you out of the chair but for now just enjoy your holiday. And yes we are leaving......but I'm hoping you'll come. Ironfist i could really use a man like you. Train my troops, turn them into proper soldiers. Structure my growing army properly. Plus there's no one I'd rather trust the security of Skyhold to. Donovan is ready to lead here. You've done well with him and this is your chance to start a new page of your story. Axemage and his son are joining us as well."
His eyes widen in surprise. It takes him a moment to recompose himself, but his first response is to let out a hearty belly laugh. One you haven't heard since you first met him many weeks ago. It seems to loosen some of the wrinkles around his scars.
"Skyhold? This mystical place I keep hearing about from my men over in Arkosia?" He snorts, drumming on the arm of his chair. His eyes turn to Donovan standing by the others. As teasing as he is, you can sense the call for adventure is still strong in his heart.
Knox Ironfist looks at the princely dragonborn kneeling in front of him. "This is a mighty offer you're extending to me. I'm honored that you see past my..." he trails off, a thoughtful look in his eyes. His broken body obviously bothers him, but there's a fresh hope now. "You showed me that when you first met me, you know. With those kobolds. I thought you were absolutely insane, but since... It's had me thinking quite hard."
He mouth sets a firm line amid his gray whiskers. "I accept. You will have the finest army this side of the Sea of Mandre, if I have anything to say about it."
Atriox looks at his feet lost in thought for a second before looking back up at the old soldier
" There's nothing mystical about it commander. It's a ruin. A broken kingdom. But.....it could be so much more. I know you have no stake in the future of my kind or know our history.......but there is a chance Ironfist. A chance to raise my people from the ashes and forge a new empire. And at it's center will be Skyhold. Then it will be something special commander, in part because you helped make it so. I promise you won't regret this."
Atriox stands up and smiles down at him
Ironfist gives a sharp smirk. "Most definitely. It sounds like a grand adventure. I'll work with Donovan until then... and continue to work with Petvin." He lets out a bit of a reluctant sigh, as if he really doesn't wish to go back. He definitely needs to be well enough to travel such a far way, but he's struggling with his pride.
"Just let me know when you're leaving, and I'll--" He turns and snaps at the nearest soldier. "--Franklin! You re-tie that knot and you do it proper, or you're gonna end up losing someone an arm! Don't you dare cut corners, boy!" He sniffs, smiling at Atriox. "Gotta keep my eye on these rouges 'til then. Good luck in your preparations, lad." He reaches forward and pats you on the arm before grabbing the wheel on his machine and twisting it to the side to attend to his men.
Atriox chuckles at the old man as he yells at his men and heads back torwards Ore and Et
Etny looks curiously between everyone. Wilster fiddles with his bag, not used to being surrounded by so many people. Donovan nudges him from behind, chuckling. "He just finished up with the pie contest.... a smashing success if I do say so myself. The winner was quite thrilled overall."
Wilster flushes and smiles. "Well yes, um, I think it was one of the best years we've had. Alchemical pies are definitely more interesting."
Donovan shrugs. "And brings in more crowds. Speaking of which..." He raises an eyebrow and looks at Oredion. "This fellow brought an interesting idea to us... launching people. Not just pumpkins."
Wilster chews on his lip, his eyes calculating as he stares at the machines. "And you want to charge people? Once word gets around?"
Donovan laughs, "Hell yes. Think of the money we could raise... just need some kind of consent form..."
Etny stares at both of them, then at Ore. "How will he stay... safe? Landing? Will people pay to be shot out of one of these machines?"
Wilster withdraws a vial of shining, sky blue liquid. "Potion of Featherfall." He grins. "You'll float down like a cloud once you reach the maximum height... just have a long walk back I'd imagine, unless you use one of the smaller catapults. The potion lasts for a good 20 minutes after you ingest it."
Oredion smiles mischievously as he approaches Donovan and Wilster.
"Ah come now lads, as much as flying light as a feather threw the sky sounds... Is there anyway we could set one up say... by the water? The idea of a sudden crash sounds to exciting to me to let go. A brisk swim sounds swell as well. Hell I think I'm the only dwarf I know who likes water, but hates boats."
Oredion let's out a loud bellowing chuckle as he looks to the pair with a small flame in his eyes. He straightens up and starts to smile to himself as an idea pops into his mind.
"What would happen you reckon if I did both? If I took the potion and had a catapult launch me from here to the water? Would I make it to the sea from here? I dont know about anyone else, but I volunteer as the test dwarf with or without the potion!"
Wilster chuckles, glancing at Donovan. "Think they can launch that far?"
The soldier laughs. "If anyone's could it would be Xnox and his team." He looks with good humor at Ironfist. Clappnig his hands he rubs them together. "Let's get this show under way!"
Leading Ore toward the machinery, he briefly talks with Ironfist. Another loud belly laugh from him seems to indicate he's 100% on board with the idea, and quite confident in the abilities of his machine.
Wilster hands Ore the potion. It's light, almost as if it's empty... but you can see the swirling sky blue color inside. Popping the cork, it smells like crisp, cold mountain air.
Oredion takes the potion in his hand swirling it once before downing the light, almost non-existent concoction. He starts to feel his body instantly feel weightless. He turns to look at Etny with a smile growing on his broad features.
"I bet you never saw a dwarf do this!"
Without hesitation Oredion jumps as strongly as he can putting his full muscle into the ground.
( Strength 17+5)
As he looks down (from how ever high he managed to jump) he starts to shout to everyone.
"I think I'm ready to be launched lads somebody throw me a rope!"
Oredion helplessly laughs to himself as he spins in circles as he lightly falls to the ground.
As adorable and comic as it is, Etny looks highly concerned at the whole procedure. And with the single magical mug, she's not able to tell how many pints of argaklel her friend had. She's sure he's slammed at this point.
"Oredioooon-eleeeeenn..." She fights her desire to keep him safe and her desire to allow him his freedom. Jumping up she hooks her fingers around his boot and tugs him back down, speeding his descent. "I'm not so sure about this, I think you're a bit... drunk."
Donovan strokes his chin, overhearing. "It might be good to have someone at the... landing point... to make sure people are able to get out of trouble safely. Who's down at the shore right now?" He looks at Wilster, who fiddles with his satchel.
"Hm, I think some of the guard is down patrolling for the anglers. Should be enough?"
Etny holds Ore's hand and Joey skitters across to her, playing in her hair. "If I cannot dissuade you about going, might I go on ahead to greet you when you land?"
"That'd be dandy lass. Itd be a dream to float down from the skys and see why I stay on the ground."
Oredion laughs as hes pulled down. He feels his cheeks flush a deep red, from the drink or realization of what he said he does not know. He looks away from Etny quickly and trys to change what he said quickly by talking to the others.
"Welp I'm ready when you men are!"
Etny swallows her nerves as he turns away, and she hurries off through town to head to the beach.
Donovan smiles. "Sounds good my brave soldier! This way!"
He leads the way over to Ironfist, who's more than happy to test out his sturdy catapult. They wind it down with the ropes and levers, helping to heft you inside (which isn't too difficult with your floating condition).
Wilster helps direct the men as to which direction to turn the machine. Positive it's facing the right way, he gives the signal and backs up quite a distance. Ironfist looks up at Ore sitting in the launch zone.
"Have a good flight, boy!" He chuckles, shaking your hand as best he can from his seat.
With a signal, the machine launches--TWANG--faster than you've ever traveled before you're rocketed clear into the sky. One hundred, two hundred, three hundred feet up. It's difficult to keep your eyes open against the chill rush of wind in your face. It's a feeling like you've never experienced.
Once you reach the peak of your ascent you begin to slow. Finally able to look around, you see all of Dragonshore below you; the city, the cooking fires, the new wall and the battlefield from weeks ago--still scarring the fields--but it is all small and beautiful and serene. It makes your head fuzzy with giddiness.
As does the plummeting drop in your stomach as you begin to fall. For a second there's a thrill of terror but the potion does its job. You float like a bird on an updraft, gracefully gliding downward. You can gauge where you're going to land further ahead, definitely out by the coastline. Depending how you choose to fall you can adjust your landing slightly--either in the water, on the sand, near the docks or by the town.
The closer to the ground you get, the more excited and surprised faces stare up at you. You see kids pointing and men laughing--the sight of a drunken, floating dwarf is beyond words.
(You can make a perception check to try to find Etny if you want but XD Otherwise you can just choose where to land)
(8+7 Perception to land on Etny 🤣)
You scan the town for the huntress, wondering where she's gotten to. She is fast, after all.
About 100 feet from the edge of the beach you spot her. Out of breath Etny looks up, waving with both hands. She looks elated that you're safe, terrified that you even did this, and laughing at your ridiculous appearance flying through the air.
About 50 feet from her, you see her eyes widen. She tries to back up, debating between catching you and avoiding being tackled. She hesitates too long, and--
BADUMP!
Oredion hits her forehead with his and they both hit the ground holding there foreheads in pain. Oredion grabs her hand as he about bounces away like a ball. He looks overjoyed to have landed with her, but is obviously upset about hitting her in his drunken state. He starts to speak with nervousness in his voice.
"I'm so sorry Et! I saw you on the ground waving and figured I'd try to land as close as possible near you, not give you a concussion..."
Oredion looks at her nervously trying to gauge her reaction to his blunder. With an excited shaky voice he continues to speak.
"You should have seen it Et! It... it was beautiful. I felt as free as a bird in the sky. I felt all my worrys wash away, but... then I realised at the sight of all these things something was missing. As much as the sky was freeing seeing you on the ground waving happily filled me with such joy. I just knew I had to come back to the place... the place that I belong..."
Oredion trys to stand up, but cant seem to get his feet down out of the air and just awkwardly floats there holding onto Etnys hand.
Etny's eyes are full of tears, both from pain and joy. There's a red welt on her forehead, but... She bursts out laughing. One of her genuine, full-hearted ones that makes her cry even more. She wipes her eyes with one hand, clutching to his with her other. It feels funny seeing him hovering off the ground, quite a bit higher up than he usually is. Pulling him into a giant hug she squeezes him tightly.
"Shiza!! Never in a million years did I think I would be as worried as I was, thinking about you wanting to do something as crazy as that! I... I'm not fond of heights, if I'm honest, Oredion-elenn." She laughs again, spinning him around. "I wanted to terribly to join you but I was frozen. So I did the only thing I could do and be here when you landed. It was more than I could bear racing here, I don't think I've ever run so fast!"
Etny lets him float away slightly, still holding his hands and ignoring the crowd staring and cheering at the dwarf's landing. People are already abuzz wondering what in the world happened and how he came flying from so far away.
"A prayer to Ata-Morri was on my lips the entire time for you! How great it must have been up there, but I just... Oleah! You are something else entirely. Your courage, your strength, it fills me with wonder!" Her cheeks are pink and she glows with happiness, pulling you forward into a floating, joyous kiss. Having you back, she seems about to float away herself out of bliss alone.
Crowds start to hurry their way to the catapult contest, the pumpkin launching completely forgotten and now filled with people wanting to try out what exactly their heroic dwarf had accomplished. Soon the air over the beach is full of folks paying to try the new game (and likely annual tradition from now on).
The potion begins to wear off and Etny still holds Oredion tight, the deep kiss replaced with dozens of little ones all over his face--wherever she can find place to. Joey flickers pink, rushing into his friend's beard again and nuzzling against his chin.
Putting her forehead against his she winces and laughs, embarassed and trying to find something to say. "I do think that was a hard knock there, is that how dwarves often greet one another?"
Oredion let's out a deep laugh as he finds his footing.
'Well unless you count my crazy uncle who used to headbutt everyone, then I dont think so."
Oredion continues to laugh as he holds Etnys gaze.
"You know... your really something Et."
Oredion leans in giving her one final kiss. He grabs her hand as he starts walking slowly back towards the crowds heading to the catapults.
"Well I guess we should go find Atriox again. Hell I have half a mind to be launched again"
He looks to Etny giving her a wink signifying he joking.
Still fluttering from the affections her heart skips a beat, but she catches his wink and laughs again. "Oooooora, don't scare me like that!" She lets herself be led by him, musing over the thought.
"Though if you did, I'd have to make sure to catch you properly! Or just go with you--" her voice squeaks a little at the suggestion and she stops, her exuberation making her feel more daring than she thinks she really is.
Eager to change the subject she stammers, "I-I think at this point a nap in the sunshine sounds nicest... Something before the stars settle in and we go fetch our wreath."
Oredion stops having almost forgotten about the wreaths after all of the days joyous events.
"You know what that sounds even better. Who needs old scale prince anyways!"
Oredion laughs as he let's Etny lead the way.
Etny enjoys a slow walk through the upper fields with Ore, finding a place for them to relax and unwind. She has some of the best rest she's had, napping with him and Joey bathed in the warm afternoon sun.
Atriox, watching a business blossom in front of you was a marvelous thing. The people didn't take long to head toward the area, greeting Knox and Donovan with excitement. Gold flows in like a river, more paid for the more intense catapults. You find that it's going to be put toward the growth of the city.
****
The day wanes and the crowds eventually make their way down the roads to the sea. Stars twinkle overhead.
The mayor Cere stands near the docks, welcoming people forward toward the high tide. Fireworks shoot into the sky, an array of reds and oranges like the fire of a dragon.
"Welcome!" His voice rings out. "As we end this festival day, let us lend our thanks to the sea and the sky, the waves of the deep, and the bountiful home that we call Dragonshore!"
Cheers ring out, and Cere walks toward the ocean with a coppery wreath in hand, covered in papery scales.
"We release our wreaths to the sea, a blessing of thanks and a prayer to the gods for safe passage of our loved ones. Both those at sea... And those of the war."
He lets his wreath go. Others step forward to release theirs to the seafoam.
Etny grins at Oredion, happily holding up their strange wreath. "I'm glad we made this together... It felt right." She blushes. "Would you like to do the honors?"
Oredion takes the wreath in his hands and gently wades into the water. He carefully sets it into the water whispering a silent prayer that it floats. Much to his surprise it easily floats. He gives it a gentle push and watches the currents slowly take it out to sea. He walks back to Etny and holds her hand. He watches the wreath float away further as he speaks.
"I'm glad we made the wreath together. It seems you were right, combing them did make it stronger. Just as you have made me... a much better dwarf. Thank you Et."
Etny blushes, tucking her hair behind her ear. "Of course, dearest Oredion-elenn." She watches the wreath with awe, giving his hand a gentle squeeze.
"Though, I feel wholly inadequate of your praise. I had lost myself, sometime ago." She looks into his eyes, taking in his features in the moonlight.
"But since I've been with you, I've found some of it again. You are the spark in my spirit... You are the one who makes me better. Ooora... ava nala de..."
She holds his hand tighter, looking back at the wreath. Theirs stands out beautifully among the surf.
****
Atriox, you find yourself watching over the amassing crowd, sitting in the cool breeze from the sea. It feels wonderful after the heat of the day, the sun more blazing than ever since your turning.
Still holding to your prestidigitation, your scales are shining and your eyes, blue as ever. No one would be any the wiser, but... it is slightly draining. The many partygoers remind you of the taste of your last meal... The hunt. The sweetness of the drink. The exuberance. It is subtle though. You feel you can easily hold back the nagging sensation.
"Hey, stranger." A voice jogs your revere. You turn to see Dahlia smiling at you, a wreath in hand. She's wearing the dress you bought her, along with the necklace and bracelet.
The wreath has glistening ribbons of gold wrapped around it, some spiderlike silk, some kind of fruits and berries, corks, and a head of garlic.
"Made you one. Figured you didn't have much free time... We all added something to it. The garlic was uh... Oxious' little bit of humor, I think." She chuckles embarrassed. "I tried to remove it but he's stuck it there with a permanence spell or something."
Atriox takes the wreath in his hands trying to be careful with it. He looks at it with a grateful and humble smile. For some reason that he cant quite place this touches him deeply
He finally looks back up at Dahlia gratefully
"This........is very kind of you. All of you. This means alot to me knowing you all helped in it. This is your towns tradition and you all were incredibly thoughtful in making me a part of it knowing I was busy and not fully aware."
Atriox bows slightly in gratitude torwards Dahlia and heads torwards the water to let his wreath go
Dahlia smiles warmly at you, sitting near where you left her. She seems happy you liked the wreath. Happy of a lot of things. It's definitely a more sincere, gentle expression for her.
Your wreath floats perfectly across the water, a gentle ripple following it out into the sea foam. It's a rather powerful sight; all these prayers for good fortune, for those who've passed on, and for those who have yet to return. It reminds you of home in a strange way... It's bittersweet. But the sensation feels pure and resonating. Cleansing.
Atriox watches happily as his wreath floats away for awhile then heads back torwards Dahlia
The half-dragonborn looks up as you approach, welcoming you back. She curls her tail around her legs to stave off the chill of the ocean breeze, patting the sand beside her.
"It's nice to watch them, isn't it? They say the gods embrace them as they wash out to sea. I'm not sure what I believe, but regardless.. no one has ever seen one show up somewhere else. It is kind of miraculous."
Atriox sits and chuckles to himself thinking "they probably just sink" but he of course doesn't say this outlowed instead he looks at her
"Indeed. I have an idea that just came to me that I wanted to run by you."
She tilts her head, giving him a curious look. "You always seem to have ideas. That's one thing I admire about you." With a chuckle she leans forward, intrigued. "What is is you're thinking of now, prince?"
Atriox gives her a small smile
"A party. The night before we leave at the Fang. The girls are all invited. You are as well of course and Oxious , along with Axemage, his son, petvin, Cere, Donovan, Ironfist, the ship captain. Our friends. I'd like it to be private so the fang will be closed for the evening. Just a private celebration of everything we have built here."
He reaches over and grabs her hand
Her eyes brighten at the idea. She squeezes his hand tenderly. "That sounds lovely, Atriox. I would be honored to make that happen."
She looks out at the crowd and the twinkling lights of the town. "I have a lot of fond memories here in Dragonshore. Yet somehow..." Dahlia shakes her head with a smile. "You and the others... you've really outdone yourselves. I've never seen it so alive in all the years I've lived here."
****
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