Episode 9: Sestatrea
General Summary
8:30 AM - 11th Vlaihr
Ceona cares for Veta and gets her to her feet. Ceona then tells Veta, once she feels able, to hitch the horses to the cart as they will all be journeying back to Hirane as quickly as possible to deal with Celindriel's poisoned condition. Celindriel nods her approval in this plan of action. The party exits the cottage and evaluates their assets. An empty cart lies in front of the cottage while 7 horses are currently tied at a hitching post nearby. Kasek ponders a moment, and asks Veta about the number of individuals that had been at the cottage. Veta tells them that she, Aghad, and Curendir had a horse each. Together with the two scouts and the two cultists, 7 horses means all individuals are accounted for, however Veta mentions that she knows for a fact more individuals had been at the cottage a few nights prior. The party takes all the horses and begins heading back to where they had camped the previous night. They gather up Levkaria, the additional horses and begin riding back to Hirane at a quickened pace with Veta and the bodies of the cultists, Aghad, and Curendir draped across the spare mounts.
11:30 - 11th of Vlaihr
The party rides into town and immediately head towards the Leaf it to Me Herbalist Shop. Celindriel dismounts and gently knocks on the door before proceeding inside. Feadog follows her in while Ceona and Kasek remain outside. Once inside, Ennen Kytson pops her head around the corner of her back room and looks slightly disheartened at seeing Celindriel and Feadog coming through her door. Celindriel apologizes for once again darkening her store, but informs Ennen that she has been afflicted with the Midnight Tears (Silver Raven Blend) poison and needs help. Ennen tells Celindriel that she had suspected that there may be more instances of poisoning given the circumstances with Lord Andel Caldel, and because of that, she has been given instructions by Berny Page to brew up antidote. She informs Celindriel that she had just finished brewing a batch right before they came into town. Celindriel is immensely relieved, and tells Ennen she would be more than happy to pay double of whatever Berny is paying to have the antidote made. Ennen charges 5 gold, and hands Celindriel the cure. Feadog asks if they have any more antidote, and Ennen reveals she only had an opportunity to brew two additional doses. Feadog asks if they can purchase those doses as well, and Ennen agrees and charges them 5 gold pieces for the remaining two batches. Celindriel and Feadog thank Ennen for her services, and exit the Herbalist Shop.
As Celindriel and Feadog come back outside, the party sees Rosla Grurim running from across the Town Square and clasps Veta in a warm embrace with tears in his eyes. After a few moments, Rosla thanks the party for bringing Veta back to him. He pulls out a coin purse and offers it to the group as thanks for returning his daughter to him. Kasek tells Rosla to keep his money, and Rosla is extremely grateful. He thanks the party and attempts an awkward bow as he backs away from the group. He embraces Veta again and begins walking with her back towards the northern end of town. The party is left standing holding 13 horses.
Kasek inquires as to whether Celindriel had any luck with seeking a cure from Ennen, and she informs them how Berny had ordered that addition cures be brewed. Kasek, impressed that Berny had that kind of foresight, mentions that they should at least go say thank you, and turn in the recovered bodies as well. The party agrees and leads the horses over to the Hirane Town Guard Barracks.
They enter the Barracks and find Berny alone at his desk. He sits up and is slightly alarmed at their return. The party fills him in on what had transpired and that they had recovered the bodies of Aghad and Curendir. He examines the bodies and confirms that the dwarf is indeed Aghad. He tells the party that he wants to give them another letter regarding Aghad to be taken to Sestatrea since that's where Aghad is from. He examines Curendir and is pained to see him dead. Berny reveals that Curendir has no surviving family members in Hirane, unfortunately, but he'll see to it that he and Aghad have a proper burial. He also instructs the party to secure the bodies of the cultists and the scouts within the Barrack's cells, which he intends to interrogate later with the help of Vyncis Marte.
After everything is sorted, Berny returns to his desk and writes a letter addressed to Urmmir Sundergrass, a member of the Sundergrass Clan who was Aghad's employer. Berny inquires about the stolen goods, and the party informs them that they were unable to recover any. The party then inquires about the horses, and Berny does a head-count. He estimates there were two horses pulling the cart, and that Aghad, Curendir and Veta each had a horse, which comes to 5 horses that are spoken for. Berny then tells the party he would have no problem giving them ownership of the remaining 2 horses. Kasek asks if Berny would be interested in purchasing the horses back from them at 35 gold total. Berny accepts and hands the party the gold.
The party asks if there is any new news, and Berny tells them there is nothing new, however he insists they deliver the letters he's written for them as soon as possible since one of those letters is addressed to Barriltar Bhandraddon requesting Paladins be sent to protect Hirane. The party reassures him that they intend on heading directly to Sestatrea, and take their leave.
The party leaves Hirane traveling at an easy pace. After four hours of travel, they come upon Troah Lake roughly in the same spot where they went off the road towards the Cultist's Cottage. The party decides to make camp for the evening, and Kasek attempts to fish with the help of Ceona. In about 25 minutes, Kasek catches four Bass, with the smallest being roughly 5 lbs in size, and the largest being 8 lbs. Ceona is slightly incredulous over his luck and skill at fishing. Levkaria is fascinated with the fishing and silently watches on. Feadog then attempts his hand at fishing with Kasek giving him his fishing tackle to try. Meanwhile, Ceona shows Levkaria how to properly construct a campfire. After a moment, Feadog catches a small 3 lb trout, and shows it to the group excitedly. The party oohs and ahhhs at Feadog's catch, and he returns it to the lake since they are currently flush on food.
The party eventually establishes camp for the evening off the road, but not quite up against the forest either. They make a small fire and cook the fish they just caught as dusk descends. Feadog entertains the group by playing his pan flute, and the party relaxes after eating. Kasek spends his time partitioning collected alchemy components so he can attempt to brew his own antidote for the Midnight Tears poison. Noticing his lack of materials, he starts to wander off to collect materials, and Levkaria offers assistance. Kasek admits not quite knowing what to look for, and Levkaria says she'll be happy to help him. Together they find 4 lbs of Mandrake Root, 1 lb of Birch Bark, and 2 lbs of Poppy. Satisfied, Kasek and Levkaria head back to camp and announce their finds.
The tale of Cherish 'No-Tongue' Layre
As they sit around the fire, Ceona asks Levkaria if she's had any luck in remembering anything more from her past. Levkaria admits she remembers the sea, snow, and a lot of other Tieflings while she was in the slave pens in Bhaevor. She describes thick-scaled creatures she remembers also in cages, and she remembers seeing people that look like Kasek and Celindriel, though not as dark-skinned as Celindriel. As she stares at the fire, she says she remembers fire....she remembers seeing fire a long time ago, and screams. She was holding her arms out reaching for someone that looks like her. Something was burning -- a building, or a house. Ceona comforts her saying that perhaps Levkaria was too young to remember everything in detail. Levkaria says she remembers shouting words....she remembers shouting someone's name. She looks crestfallen and says she can't remember the name. Ceona attemps to comfort her by telling her the story of Cherish 'No-Tongue' Layre, and also hopes the story will help Levkaria remember her past. The party all listened on in wonderment at the tale, with Levkaria being completely enraptured by the story.
The tale finishes and Levkaria is in awe of Cherish. After a small back-and-forth of Levkaria and the party asking Ceona for certain details of the story, both Levkaria and Ceona decide to turn in for the evening. As they fall asleep, Faedog inquires as to Celindriel's background. She tells Feadog that her people don't tend to leave their homeland often, as they are...'busy' with things. She's encouraged to reveal more by Feadog, and she continues by saying most of the people from Aennamar don't interact much at all with foreigners. Feadog recalls the name Aennamar, and remembers sailing through there while on the Anellas. Celindriel nods and says they sailed to Graygate which is the Moon Elf Capital. That's where she boarded the ship, though they wouldn't have noticed since it was in the middle of the night. Kasek then jumps into the conversation by asking how it came to be for her to gain passage on the Anellas in such a secretive manner. Celindriel mentions that she believes it was due to a request made by her Matron since her errand is important and she has to get to Sestatrea as soon as possible.
Feadog changes tact and asks about Moon Elves in general -- specifically why is it that they don't like to leave their homeland. Celindriel answers vaguely that they just like to keep to themselves mostly. Kasek asks if this is the first time that Celindriel has left Aennamar, and she admits that it is, and it is the first time that she's interacted with other races other than those she's met as delegates or visitors to their foreign quarter. Feadog questions why it is then that most of the people they've met in Laskea seem to know her. Celindriel tells him that they know 'of' her because she's distinctive looking...they don't know her personally, but they can certainly make assumptions about things because 'she's' out and about. Feadog nods and then asks if there are any Moon Elves in Sestatrea. Celindriel answers that there are, but they are not who she is going to see.
Feadog asks, if there are Moon Elves, isn't Celindriel at least going to say hello? Somewhat baffled by the question, Celindriel admits that if she sees them, she will most likely say hello to them. Kasek asks if Feadog, by that reasoning, says hello to every Half-Elf he comes across. Feadog ponders a moment and says that's a good point, but he probably would. There weren't many half-elves that he interacted with when he was young since he was raised by two Humans. Now Celindriel becomes interested and begins asking him questions. Feadog reveals that he never met his Elf parent, and his human family never brought it up. He moved away from home before he really began to think about it. Kasek asks Feadog where home is, and Feadog mentions it's a small village called Leeside located outside of Bayvale. Feadog says he would like to visit again with his parents someday and find more out about his past. Kasek tells Feadog that Bayvale was just about as close as one could be to getting back to Leeside, now he's half the continent away. Feadog nods but admits he didn't have much choice as he had to get out of Bayvale in a hurry. Celindriel pushes for more information, and Feadog sheepishly admits there was a big misunderstanding and he was forced to flee due to having too-many winnings while playing Liar's Dice. The Anellas was the first ship that offered him passage in return to playing for the crew, but he had no idea it was going to take him this far. Kasek asks Feadog then if it's not a good idea to return to Bayvale, and Feadog agrees he should lay low for a time, though he has a friend that he got separated from while there and would very much like to return someday to find him. Kasek asks if he was his Liar's Dice partner, and Feadog admits that he is as well as just being his partner in all adventures -- and he's the one that taught Feadog magic.
Kasek inquires about Feadog's ability to cast magic through his instruments, and Feadog spends some time educating Kasek on what a bard actually does and how they do what they do. Feadog further reveals that he went to Bayvale to become famous by either traveling with a band of adventurers and recording their sorted tales and stories, or by playing for royalty. Celindriel asks if Feadog has ever been to the Bard's College, and Feadog reveals that he hasn't, but he does have a book from there. He goes on to say that he did in fact make a rather large sum of money while playing the Lute in Bayvale -- a Lute that was his since he was little, but it all had to be left behind in Bayvale when he had to escape. Kasek and Celindriel both begin to give Feadog encouragement by suggesting he could write songs about their adventures, and Feadog agrees.
9:30 PM - 11th of Vlaihr
The conversation winds down, and Kaseks stays awake on first watch while the rest peacefully sleep/trance. As his watch progresses, around midnight, Kasek notices a faint movement back on the road that is 'beast-shaped' and somewhat large in size. It trots along the road from Hirane in their direction. Kasek quietly tries to approach the shape and as he gets closer, the shape slows and eventually comes to a stop. It then wanders off the side of the road and goes into the woods out of view of Kasek. Kasek returns to the camp slightly disappointed, but wakes Faedog to take the next watch. He tells Feadog about the shape but says he doesn't think Feadog should be concerned.
7:00 AM - 12th of Vlaihr
Feadog's watch goes without incident, and Celindriel begins the last watch which also goes without incident. Eventually the sun rises and the party begins to wake. They enjoy a quiet breakfast of fish from the previous evening's catch, saddle up, and continue their journey towards Sestatrea. The countryside is beautiful with lush green rolling hills and scattered trees. Eventually the party comes upon a fork, and after reviewing their map decide to take a left traveling north towards Sestatrea. The terrain then starts to become more mountainous the further they travel, and eventually dusk begins to settle once more while still on the road. They make camp again and bed down for the evening with Kasek, Ceona, and Celindriel taking turns on keeping watch. Around 4:00 AM, Celindriel's eyes make out a large shape that occasionally moves in circles off in the distance. She just keeps an eye on the shape, but doesn't alert the party.
The Wolfhound. 8:00 AM - 13th of Vlaihr
The sun rises and as the party awakens, Celindriel informs the party about what she saw. The party eats their breakfast, packs up camp, and begins to leave. While they ride and chat among themselves, they catch sight of a large Wolfhound some distance back from them. It's not running, but it is gaining on them as it follows. The party decides to stop and see what happens. The Wolfhound continues to approach and upon reaching the party it stops, sits, and looks at them. Kasek tosses a half ration to the Wolfhound, and Ceona scolds Kasek that this is exactly the reason why the dog is following them. The party discusses the Wolfhound and the reasons why it could be following them, and then Kasek slides from his saddle and approaches it. Kasek pets the dog and tells the party that they're going to keep the animal. Celindriel tells Kasek it'll be his responsibility to care for it and train it. Kasek agrees and returns to his horse and commands the dog to follow. The Wolfhound sits unresponsive until the party begins to ride away, and then the dog begins to follow. Ceona questions as to whether it was Kasek's command that actually encouraged the dog to follow them or not. The party comes to a stop again and looks at the dog. Celindriel asks Kasek what he intends on calling the dog, and Feadog wonders if the dog may already have a name. Feadog suggests Kasek just ask the dog what it's name is.
Kasek approaches the dog again and speaks up in a commanding voice "Hey! Dog! Do you have a name?" (Kasek unknowingly casts Speak with Animals) The dog begins whining, but in Kasek's mind he hears the dog clearly say "I have no name". Celindriel comments on how cute the dog looks while attempting to speak, and Kasek begins looking around wondering if the others can hear the dog speaking. After a brief pause, Kasek asks the dog if he has a master. The dog states that he does, and he was told by his master to watch Kasek. The rest of the party begins looking strangely at Kasek, as it appears to them that he is speaking in barks and whines back to the dog. Levkaria whispers "That's weird" to the rest of the group while watching this interaction, and Celindriel nods in agreement. Kasek asks the dog where his master is, and the dog responds "Very far away". Kasek then asks the dog why his master instructed the dog to watch him. The dog responds that his master said that Kasek was very special. Kasek comments to the dog that his master must be a bad master if he didn't give him a name. The dog growls in disapproval at Kasek's statement, and Kasek asks if the dog disagrees. The dog states that his master is very, very nice and looks just like Kasek, only with a bigger beard. Kasek asks the animal for clarification on what he means by he looks 'just like him'. The dog indicates to the rest of the party saying that his master does not look like any of the others, but looks similar to Kasek. Meanwhile, Ceona is conversing with Feadog and Celindriel, speculating that maybe Kasek is part dog which explains his disheveled appearance most of the time -- maybe that's why he can communicate with the animal.
Kasek asks how the dog got here -- did you walk? The dog responds "Yes....walked a long, long way to get here". Kasek turns to the group and asks if they are hearing the conversation he's having, or is he just crazy. The group nods and say that yes they can hear him speaking like a dog to the animal. Kasek says the dog is conversing with him rather eloquently. Feadog is excited and asks for more information and Celindriel wonders if Kasek hit his head in the last battle. Kasek states that he's fine and brings the group up to speed on what the dog has said thus far. Feadog asks the dog for his name, and Kasek asks the dog if he understands Feadog's question. The dog responds to Kasek that yes, he does understand Feadog. Kasek orders the dog to answer Feadog's question, and the dog begins to bark and whine at Feadog -- Feadog does not understand any of the dog's response. Kasek tells Feadog "He's telling you he doesn't have a name". Feadog is slightly unconvinced, saying he doesn't speak dog so he doesn't know if that's what the dog is saying or not. The rest of the party begins asking where Kasek learned how to speak dog, and Kasek, growing slightly frustrated, tells the group that he doesn't know how to speak dog! Feadog questions Kasek further on his apparent new-found ability, and asks if Kasek knows where the dog is from. Kasek asks the dog if he knows the name of where he's from, and the dog tells Kasek that he does. Kasek asks what the name is and the dog tells Kasek he is from a place called Erackinor. Kasek, realizing that Erackinor is home of the Dwarven Pantheon located on the Slopes of Solania of Mount Celestia, becomes extremely disturbed and freaked out.
Kasek looks at the dog, and questions the dog again on the statement that he 'walked' here from Erackinor. The dog says "Yes!.....I'm a good boy." Ceona, somewhat suspicious that Kasek is pulling their leg, tells Kasek to have the dog perform tricks as a means of verifying this whole ordeal. Kasek introduces the group to the dog speaking in common, and then he asks the dog to sit, and then speaks the command again using animal speech. The dog sits as instructed. Kasek asks the dog to stand, and the dog complies, and then Kasek asks the dog to walk in circles. The dog performs all commands as requested. Ceona is convinced, and Kasek gives the dog a pet on the head and tells him that he is a good boy. The dog gives Kasek a slobbery lick on his face in appreciation. Feadog wonders why the dog is wanting to watch Kasek, and Kasek states that apparently it's because he is 'special'. Feadog wonders if it's because of Kasek's whiskey, and the dog's ears perk up at the mention of it. Kasek asks if the dog likes whiskey, and the dog becomes extremely excited. Not having any whiskey on hand to give, he allows the dog to sniff his jug instead. The dog licks the jug trying to get any drop of whiskey from the jug. The party laughs at Kasek, saying he's now the proud owner of an alcoholic dog. Feadog wonders if the animal knows who it was that sent him, and Kasek asks the dog if he knows the name of his master. The dog responds that yes he does indeed know his name. Kasek grows extremely nervous, and decides not to ask further questions. Kasek tells Feadog that the dog doesn't know the name, and he drops the subject. Kasek then asks the dog if he himself is in danger, and the dog looks around and tells him "No, not right now". Kasek is not impressed with the answer.
Kasek spends the next few moment teaching the dog the concepts of come, sit, and stay and explains to the dog that they will be heading into a large city and might need the dog to remain out of sight, or boarded in a kennel/stable. The dog listens to all commands and obeys. Feadog wonders if the dog hunts, and Kasek relays the question to the dog. The dog states that yes he does indeed hunt, and he likes to hunt rabbits and foxes. The dog excitedly tells Kasek that he'll get one for him, and takes off at a dead run off into the countryside, leaving the group blinking at one another. The party watches the animal depart, waits a few moments for his return, but then decide to continue on towards to Sestatrea.
Sestatrea. 12:00 PM - 13th of Vlaihr
The party continues riding north and after cresting a hill they see the city of Sestatrea below with the ocean surrounding the city. The party begins to descend the hill on the road towards the city when the Wolfhound reappears, galloping up to them with two large rabbits in its mouth. It releases them on the ground and wags its tail at them obviously happy with its catch. The party collects the rabbits, and continues on with the dog following behind. The party enters the town through the center road into Sestatrea, and experiences a rather bustling city with all sorts of different races. The party recognizes the town guard standing at the gate by their blue uniforms, polished armor and the royal emblem of the Kingdom of Laskea. Celindriel hails the guards, and one approaches. She asks for directions to the Temple of Torm's Coming, to which he gives her several options for getting there. Kasek inquires about stables, and the guard indicates it all depends on where they're staying for the evening. The guard tells the group that they can choose to stay at the Crescent Dream in the Elven District which is a cheaper option, or they can choose the Ivory Pantry Inn which is more expensive but is closer to the Temple of Torm's Coming. The guard also indicates that both establishments are owned and operated by Moon Elves. The Crescent Dream used to cater to all Elves, but recently started catering to Moon Elves exclusively, and the Ivory Pantry Inn caters to the rich and heads of state. The guard informs them that the Ivory Pantry Inn has their own stables which are for residents of the Inn. Celindriel thanks the guard for the recommendations. Feadog inquires about where to buy armor, and the guard recommends they try inquiring at the Ore Else Blacksmithy ran by the Sundergrass Clan. Feadog asks about gambling establishments, and the guard indicates there are no 'formal' establishments for gambling within town. He states that it isn't illegal to gamble, but there are no permanent establishments that are committed to gambling only. The party thanks the guard for his information, and proceed on their way.
The party proceeds north along the road they entered the City on and come into a busting trade plaza known as Perseverance Plaza which has all manner of booths and stalls setup with people selling various armor and weapons. As they ride along, Ceona attempts to primp and preen her clothing in an attempt to look presentable if they are to meet with the King and Queen. Kasek grows slightly nervous and uncomfortable watching her, and asks if they should secure room and board at an Inn first to give them the opportunity to freshen up before meeting. The party agrees, but continue to ride into the plaza. Feadog stops and inquires about Studded Armor at a local booth, but finds the price to be too steep at 45 gold each and decides not to purchase any at this time. Kasek asks if the armor seller is interested in buying armor, and presents the saleswoman with 2 ruined leather armor that he has. She offers 12 gold and 5 silver for the ruined armor, and Kasek makes the deal and collects his money. Kasek finds a dwarven salesman selling weapons nearby and addresses him. He offers to sell the spare weapons they have in their inventory, and the dwarf evaluates their haul. After a bit of haggling, the dwarf offers 30 gold and 2 silver for the lot. Kasek accepts the offer and collects his money.
The party then proceeds on to the Temple of Torm's Coming passing by the Government and Military Districts and arrive at the main gates to the Keep. They come across two town guardsman standing on either side of Keep gate entrance, and Ceona begins to approach one. The guards notice her approaching, and one guard steps away from his post and meets her before she has a chance to reach the gates themselves. The guards inquires as to her business and she asks the guard for directions to the Ivory Pantry Inn. The guard politely gives her clear directions to the Inn, to which she thanks him and rejoins the party as they head off in the direction the guard gave. They travel a few buildings down and come to a rather large and opulent building where the patrons entering and exiting the building appear rather well-dressed and obviously wealthy. Across the street from the building is a stable with the name 'Ivory Pantry Stable' in clear lettering above the main entrance. The party begins to doubt whether this should be the place for them to stay.
The Ivory Pantry Inn
Ceona begins by commenting on how neat and clean everything looks, while Levkaria oohs and ahhs. Kasek and Feadog begin taking a count of how much coin they have, and Celindriel nods in approval at the accommodations. Levkaria asks Ceona if this is where they're going to be staying, and Ceona hesitates by merely saying 'Maybe....for one night...". Ceona wonders aloud if, since they're meeting the King and Queen, this should be the place where they stay for the evening. Kasek offers that perhaps it comes with a discount if they're royal guests? Feadog smiles and claims "This is my kind of place". The party dismounts, and three stay outside to watch the horses and the Wolfhound while Feadog and Celindriel head inside the Ivory Pantry Inn to check on pricing.
They walk inside to a room which opens up to a main lobby decorated with a beautiful crystal chandelier and rich red carpet running throughout the entire building. Off to the side is what appears to be a check-in desk where two Half-Elf women stand ready to greet customers, along with a rather debonair Moon Elf gentleman. The Moon Elf sees Celindriel and Feadog enter and immediately comes around from behind the counter and introduces himself as Deldrach Vajyre, owner of the Ivory Pantry Inn. Deldrach begins to inform Celindriel and Feadog on the many wonderful amenities the Inn has, which include indoor plumbing, a bathhouse, massage parlor, a restaurant/tavern, and concierge service for resident's mounts. All services are included when booking a room at a fee of 5 gold a night, minus tips. Feadog mentions to Deldrach that he currently has 4 other guests traveling with him, and surely Deldrach has heard of him, Feadog Mhor, Pan Flute Entertainer Extraordinaire! Deldrach admits that he has not heard of him, however given the fact that they're in Laskea, news tends to travel slow. Feadog says it's no bother, and explains to Deldrach that he has been invited by the King and Queen of Laskea to perform. Deldrach assures Feadog that there is no finer establishment within Sestatrea, and they often cater to VIPs, Heads of State, and Delegates that visit the Temple of Torm's Coming and are therefore familiar with the service requirements of those individuals. Feadog then attempts to persuade Deldrach in giving the party a discount if they decide to stay at the Inn. Unfortunately Feadog's persuasion attempt is unsuccessful.
Celindriel attempts to communicate with Deldrach using Thieves' Cant. He responds in kind saying that it's a pleasure to welcome her to Sestatrea. He insists that Celindriel come speak with him at a later time. Feadog then suggests that if he were to provide a letter or such that would insist on them receiving a discount, would that be sufficient for Deldrach. Deldrach agrees saying that if feadog can produce any sort of recommendation, he would certainly be open to the possibility of offering reduced rates for the rooms. Feadog thanks him for his time, and Deldrach asks Feadog and Celindriel for their names again. They provide their names, and Deldrach thanks them again for stopping by, and also adds that he hopes to 'speak with them again soon' while nodding to Celindriel. Feadog and Celindriel thank him again, and exit the building to return to the three others waiting outside. As they approach, they overhear Kasek explaining the process of preserving Boar Bacon, and Ceona is listening somewhat skeptically and giving her own take on how to properly preserve meat. Celindriel turns to Feadog and warns him to not attempt to forge a letter to Deldrach, as he will immediately know that it is a fake. Feadog states that he was merely exploring options, and nothing more.
Kasek asks Celindriel for the details of what transpired, and she informs the rest that the price of lodging is quite expensive at 5 gold pieces a night. Ceona nearly falls over from hearing the price, and Kasek is quite incredulous as well. Feadog tries to assure the party that he's working on a method of getting a reduced rate, but Celindriel warns against doing anything of the sort. After a moment of discussion, the party decides to look into lodging at the Crescent Dream Inn located in the Elven District. The party mounts their horses and head to the other side of the City. While enroute, the party passes by a building that they somewhat recognize due to it being constructed to look like a ship. The building is obviously a temple devoted to the worship of Valkur, and a large painted pearl stands over top of the front entrance which bears the emblem of the deity -- a thundercloud with three bolts of lightning. The party recalls being told that Athyen Eddyns was recommended to serve as an acolyte to Vyncis Marte by the head Priest of the Deep Pearl Shrine named Azud Rhunan. The party makes a mental note of the building and decide to press on towards the Crescent Dream Inn.
The Crescent Dream Inn
As the party enters the Elven District, the landscape changes where the buildings are all of elvish construction, and the streets are populated by Sun Elves, Wood Elves and Half-Elves. The party passes by a building that Celindriel recognizes as being a temple dedicated to the worship of Corellon Larethian, and further down they eventually come to the entrance of the Crescent Dream Inn. Ceona, Kasek and Levkaria decide to take the horses and the Wolfhound and look for stables, while Celindriel and Feadog inquire within on rates. Once inside, they find the ground floor to be one large room populated with tables and chairs, a staircase at the far wall, and an oak counter off to the left. Sitting at the tables are 6 Moon Elf men drinking and conversing with themselves, and behind the counter stands a female Moon Elf. As the two enter, everyone in the room stops their conversations and stare at the two. The woman behind the counter and Celindriel exchange greetings in elvish, and Celindriel inquires about rooms. The woman asks if it's just Celindriel wanting lodging or if there are more. Feadog states in elvish that there are five of them in total. The woman ignores Feadog and asks Celindriel if the others are all like him. Celindriel states that they're not all like him, but they're not all like her either. The woman tells Celindriel that she won't charge Celindriel for a room, but for everyone else it's 5 silver a night. Feadog, taking offense, asks what the problem is. The woman says there's no problem, her establishment merely caters to Moon Elves specifically. Feadog is incredulously at the level of racism on display, but the woman merely states it's their choice on whether they wish to stay here or not. Celindriel asks if there are any stables nearby, and the woman tells her there are stables nearby and gives her directions. Celindriel thanks her and tells her that she would be happy to give her news of the homeland when she returns. The woman perks up and states that it would be wonderful to receive such news. The woman asks for Celindriel's name, which she gives as Celindriel Bryleth, and in turn the woman reveals her name to be Xalyth T'arr. Celindriel thanks her, and both her and Feadog walk from the building as the room of individuals continue to stare them down.
Meanwhile, Kasek, Ceona and Levkaria find the stables on their own and lodge the horses and the Wolfhound for the evening at 5 silver a night. Ceona pays 30 silver, and Kasek tells the Wolfhound that he'll be back soon. The Wolfhound heads inside the stables as Celindriel and Feadog approach. Celindriel warns the group about how the people in this establishment might come across as a little racist. Kasek sarcastically feigns being incredulous that any Elves could seem that way, which Celindriel finds amusing. Feadog begins describing how he was insulted, and he felt extremely uncomfortable, and he somewhat feared for his life. The group joked with him about the encounter, but assured him he would be fine. The party all head back to the Crescent Dream Inn, and all enter in to a similar scene as Celindriel and Feadog had encountered before with everyone ending their conversations and staring at the group in silence. Celindriel recommends that the party members all head upstairs and let her talk to Xalyth. The party head upstairs save for Celindriel, who remains behind and watches the group ascend the stairs along with every other Moon Elf staring on as well. Celindriel makes a big dramatic production and states out loud that she's relieved to be away from those 'others', and the whole process has been exhausting. She says out loud that they were shipwrecked in Hirane and have been making their way to Sestatrea where she now has to go to the Temple of Torm's Coming, and it's been terrible babysitting these non-elves with her. The room of Moon Elves merely listen and stare at her. Celindriel then leans on the counter and asks Xalyth how it was that she came to be in possession of the Inn. The Moon Elves at the tables begin to resume their conversations, and Xalyth tells Celindriel that she came into possession of the Inn after receiving a letter of recommendation from Celindriel's father, Ardreth Bryleth. This comes as a pleasant surprise to Celindriel, and she then inquires about a bath and the possibility of getting their clothes washed. Xalyth tells her there are water closets upstairs and to just leave their clothes in a pile in their rooms and she'll take care of the wash. Celindriel thanks her for her hospitality, and Xalyth nods in appreciation but also asks that Celindriel keeps a 'chain on her friends'. Celindriel promises to do just that, and then heads upstairs to join the others.
The Temple of Torm's Coming
The party spends some time cleaning themselves up, fixing their hair, washing, and preparing for their upcoming meeting at the Temple of Torm's Coming. The party heads back downstairs and find less individuals in the room, but just as before, those present end their conversations and stare at the party as they enter the room. The party exits the Inn feeling uncomfortabe and decide to head to the Temple of Torm's Coming.
They find the same two guards standing at the entrance of the gatehouse to the Keep, and as soon as they begin to approach, the same guard as before walks away from him post to intercept them. He greets them and asks for their business. The party presents the letter Berny Page had written for them, the guard reads it and then proceeds to tell them how to proceed within the keep. The party thanks him for his time and proceed within the keep grounds.
The party enters the courtyard of the keep coming to a series of white stone stairs leading up to the front entrance of the keep which is apparent by two large oak doors with a guard positioned on either side and a servant standing at the center of the doors. As the party approaches, the servant opens the doors for the party and they proceed inside. The party sees a long hallway lined with several benches decorated with potted plants. The floor is marble, and several stone statues of lions with their paw raised line the columns supporting the roof of the building. Stained-glass windows flood the hallway with colorful hues of light, and at the end of the hallway is a large ornate oak desk where an individual is seen scribbling in a large book. The party approaches and offers the letter to the individual. Without looking up from his writing, he greets the party indicating that he is the Chamberlain and asks their business. Celindriel tells the Chamberlain that they have a letter to be delivered to the King and Queen, as well as to Barriltar Bhandraddon. The Chamberlain tells the party to wait a moment as he rises and heads into a hallway behind the desk. The party takes a seat on one of the benches while waiting.
After a few moments, a human dressed in expensive blue robes with armored spaulders appears and speaks with the chamberlain at the desk, who indicates towards the party. The human approaches and introduces himself as the Pontiff and High Cleric of Torm Barriltar Bhandraddon and welcomes them to the Temple of Torm's Coming. Celindriel asks if there is somewhere they can speak privately, and Barriltar nods and offers to show them around the Keep. They begin to walk down the hallway behind the Chamberlain's desk, and Barriltar tells the party that he's glossed over the letter they had given the Chamberlain. Celindriel begins to tell Barriltar all about everything that had transpired in Hirane, and Barriltar is somewhat overloaded by the information. He tries to calm Celindriel, and indicates that he doesn't currently have a lot of time to listen to all the details of their exploits. Celindriel apologizes and states that she's merely trying to bring him up to speed on the possible dangers they uncovered in Hirane. She then proceeds to hand him all the letters from Berny and he takes a moment to gloss over them. He assures the party that they are certainly welcome, and they should calm themselves. Ceona and Kasek attempt an insight check to see if Barriltar is being flippant, but are unsuccessful in getting a good read. Barriltar takes a moment and asks the party how much they know about Torm. The party admits they don't know much, and Barriltar then asks if the party would be willing to indulge him a moment. The party, slightly confused, agrees and Barriltar leads them down the hallway to a door with a metallic golden lion head prominently displayed. He tells the group that this is the entrance to the guild hall of the Order of the Golden Lion, which he explains is a holy order of warriors dedicated to honoring Torm. He tells them that he would like to introduce them to the members. The party is highly suspicious, and attempt an insight check. For all they can tell, he seems sincere in his offer. The party agrees, and he opens the door.
He leads them through the door into a large open-floor two-story room where various individuals are engaged in different activities. Barriltar announces to the room "Golden Lions! We have visitors." Upon saying that, the individuals in the room all stop what they're doing and begin to line up in front of Barriltar.
To Be Continued in Episode 10
Rewards Granted
- 35 gold after selling two recovered horses back to Berny Page
- 13 lbs of Fish
- Wolfhound companion
- 7 lbs of rabbits
- 12 gold 5 silver for selling excess armor from the Cyn's Grove encounter
- 30 gold 2 silver for selling excess weapons from the Cyn's Grove encounter
Missions/Quests Completed
- Arrived in Sestatrea
- Delivered the hand-written letters to Barriltar Bhandraddon
Character(s) interacted with
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Celindriel Bryleth
Feadog Mhor
Kasek Bonebrewer
Ceona Haloren
Report Date
19 Jul 2018
Primary Location
Secondary Location
Veta Grurim
Levkaria Yumaia
Ennen Kytson
Healer by Mike Perry
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