The Marvelous Adventures of Galavin Wraith: Radical Sabatical: Part 1
Galavin Wraith, A moon elf with fare skin blue eyes and silvery white hair, flew through the air riding his enchanted carpet while Faltex, a brass dragonborn that was always covered in black soot and ash, glided in tandem using leathery wings. They flew in through a window on the top floor of Traxigor's tower. A tower that floated high above the water 20 miles off the sword coast.
Galavin knew the mage, but they had not spoken in some time. The couple needed a way of transportation to the Nine Hells, which of course Traxigor had. The East Waterdeep Company recently received a business opportunity that requires intimidate attention. Which of course means Galavin Wraith needs to go first followed by Louie, the real deal maker.
"Welcome, Welcome" Came a small voice from the descending staircase.
As Galavin rolled up his carpet and began to stuff the thing into his satchel, the carpet disappearing completely, an otter dressed in a tiny cassock scurried up to the top of the stairs. Faltex approached Traxigor arms stretched out in front of him.
"Please do not pick me up" Traxigor said firmly.
Embarrassed the dragonborn retreated a step back.
"Traxigor?" Galavin asked.
"The one and only"
"You seem taller than when we last met"
That brought a laugh from the otter. "yes yes, it has been far too long. We'll have plenty of time to catch up while we wait."
"Wait?" Came the reply from Faltex. "I thought the plan was to leave immediately?"
"A few moments ago Candlekeep sent word of an adventuring party needing help getting to Avernus. One of your own I believe" he finished with a pointed paw to Galavin.
Galavin gave a knowing nod. Most likely the crew from Baldur's gate he reasoned. "But what quest takes them to Hell?" He asked openly
"I did not ask" Traxigor rubbed his paw on his chin. "Perhaps they found out what happened to Elturel"
Faltex crossed his arms. "you think Elturel, a holy city would just teleport into hell? Quiet the power move"
"I do not believe that we their intention" Galavin put in. "Either way, you want us to wait, better to make one trip"
Traxigor nodded in agreement. "Please come make yourself comfy, oh I have a friend for you to meet as well"
Traxigor motioned for them to follow and started down the staircase.
Galavin followed Traxigor to the stairs but stopped to turn to his companion. Faltex stood with a hand on his stomach "I'm... going to get some food."
"where are you going to get food?"
Faltex shrugged as if it did not matter then made his way to the window they had arrived through.
Galavin knew the mage, but they had not spoken in some time. The couple needed a way of transportation to the Nine Hells, which of course Traxigor had. The East Waterdeep Company recently received a business opportunity that requires intimidate attention. Which of course means Galavin Wraith needs to go first followed by Louie, the real deal maker.
"Welcome, Welcome" Came a small voice from the descending staircase.
As Galavin rolled up his carpet and began to stuff the thing into his satchel, the carpet disappearing completely, an otter dressed in a tiny cassock scurried up to the top of the stairs. Faltex approached Traxigor arms stretched out in front of him.
"Please do not pick me up" Traxigor said firmly.
Embarrassed the dragonborn retreated a step back.
"Traxigor?" Galavin asked.
"The one and only"
"You seem taller than when we last met"
That brought a laugh from the otter. "yes yes, it has been far too long. We'll have plenty of time to catch up while we wait."
"Wait?" Came the reply from Faltex. "I thought the plan was to leave immediately?"
"A few moments ago Candlekeep sent word of an adventuring party needing help getting to Avernus. One of your own I believe" he finished with a pointed paw to Galavin.
Galavin gave a knowing nod. Most likely the crew from Baldur's gate he reasoned. "But what quest takes them to Hell?" He asked openly
"I did not ask" Traxigor rubbed his paw on his chin. "Perhaps they found out what happened to Elturel"
Faltex crossed his arms. "you think Elturel, a holy city would just teleport into hell? Quiet the power move"
"I do not believe that we their intention" Galavin put in. "Either way, you want us to wait, better to make one trip"
Traxigor nodded in agreement. "Please come make yourself comfy, oh I have a friend for you to meet as well"
Traxigor motioned for them to follow and started down the staircase.
Galavin followed Traxigor to the stairs but stopped to turn to his companion. Faltex stood with a hand on his stomach "I'm... going to get some food."
"where are you going to get food?"
Faltex shrugged as if it did not matter then made his way to the window they had arrived through.
...
Galavin and Lulu, a Holyphant, spoke telepathically to each other while under the mass of blankets lying on the floor. Galavin shared stories and tales from his adventures. Lulu giggled and loved every tale. She’d share her own if she remembered any, the holyphant lost most of her memory and she does not remember how. The wizard was happy to lead the conversation.
The sound of Traxigor calling their names brought them out of their conversation. Lulu was the first to burst forth from the mountain of blanket leaving Galavin, still sitting on the ground, poking out from the mound. The adventure party had just arrived and were filtering into the larger room from the staircase leading to the top floor. Traxigor was running about looking for the tuning forks they needed for the spell. That left Galavin and Lulu with the new arrivals.
"Hi hello everyone!" Lulu telepathically said to each and everyone in the adventuring party. She flew around to address each one individually, some spoke to Lulu while others smiled and just enjoyed the one sided conversations as best they could.
A mighty bronze dragonborn clad in plate armor approached Galavin who was still sitting. “Well met, who might you be?”
“I’m Galavin Wraith” he replied with a big smile.
“Will you be joining us on this fine day?”
“It would seem so, but only for the trip. We have our own... quest that needs attention” Not trying to reveal to much to the.
The dragonborn gave a simple nod of understanding. He then reached out a gauntleted hand for the wizard to take. Galavin was soon up on his feet adjusting his outfit and straightening his outrageous hat. Finally taking in the new characters about the room. Like any typical party, he noticed, they were a mixer of misfits from all different walks of life. Masters of their own domain each one. A dragonborn, minotaur, elf, and a few humans made of this young group.
"Should I know who you are?" The dragonborn continued.
Galavin smiled and looked the armored holy warrior up and down. "I would not worry about it too much, I am possibly a short character in your story." Galavin didn't want to get to know the party to well. He thought some if not over half of these adventures will not make it back out. It was a grim but ultimately true reality.
Faltex strolled down the stairs then, hardly paying any mind to the newcomers. His focus was on his giant bowl of thick broth and spoon that never stopped moving from his bowl to him maw and back. He finally stopped when his way was blocked. In front of the sorcerer stood a suit of armor filled with a strong bronze dragonborn.
Though a genuine smile, "Hello, what do have there friend?"
"good question" came the cryptic reply, Faltex of course never trusting someone he just met. Dragonborn or not.
"um, may i have some?"
This took the sorcerer back a bit but didn't show it. He gazed past the warrior to meet Galavin's stare. The wizard simply nodded in reply then turned to help Traxigor in his search. Thinking quickly Faltex suddenly tilted the bowl in his mouth and gulped loudly for a few moments. With his hunger satisfied and the bowl empty he handed the now empty bowl and spoon off to the warrior. "you can have the rest" he stated with a sly grin.
"Th-Thank you" warrior reply sincerely.
As Faltex walked away that reaction did not sit well with the seasoned sorcerer. Something wasn't right with that one; Or any of them he pondered, they all avoided eye contact, and stood shifting back and forth. They did not even seem to help poor Traxigor who, with the help of Galavin, finally found the tuning forks required for the spell.
With out a word the small crowd gathered in a circle, Traxigor and Galavin taping their tuning forks on the floor casting the plane shift spell.
...
The air assaulted their senses, the city street they found themselves was lined with building that are crumbling if not already collapsed. The ground shuddered beneath their feet, in the red smoky sky a massive sphere of darkness discharges strokes of bluish-white lightning that strike the city at irregular intervals.
Traxigor gazed up at the black orb nervously, uttered a few arcane syllables, and disappeared in the blink of an eye.
“Oh that’s cheating!” Galavin exclaimed.
That brought confused looks from the party and a chuckle out of Faltex. Hubbard and Duane had the sense of Deja vu but still could not put together what spell the great mage had cast.
Suddenly the minotaur charged down the city street deeper into the burning city. The young party sprang into action giving chase. The minotaur had spotted a woman and her children in danger. They attracted the attention of two bearded devils. The minotaur continued his charge around the street corner, so fast indeed he passed the two devils and blocked their path. The first devil could not stop when the horns of the minotaur dipped and came up suddenly to drive through the fiend’s diaphragm and punctured it’s lungs. The rest of the party, not too far behind, turned the corner just in time to launch their barrage of simple spells and arrows. The second even more stunned devil never saw it coming.
…
Galavin waved to the departing party and turned his companion. “They sure have spunk”
“They’re going to run right into the maw of some fiendish monstrosity.” Faltex laughed.
“Then we should head in the direction opposite of them” Galavin said, turning and walking off.
Soon the couple stood on the edge of the city looking down some 500 feet to the raging blood war that was ever present. The river Styx flowed through the middle of the battlefield, a constant war between devils and demons.
“I recommend we avoid jumping into that foul water. If you can even call it that.” Galavin noticed the city floated right above the Styx, slowing descending.
“Yes, I would have to agree with that assessment” Faltex said in a mocking tone.
The wizard smiled. “First one to 100 then?” He asked slyly
“I can think of a larger number”
“Typical”
The Dragonborn Laughed “Do we have a time limit? I know you’d hate to be late to whatever meetings you’ve arranged.” again in a mocking tone.
The wizard quickly retrieved small piece of adamantine and went into casting, finishing with a flourish, he had enchanted himself with a strong enchantment able to defeat any incoming attacks. “I’d say we have about half my spells worth” He said before falling sidelong off the edge.
The falling elf reached into his extra dimensional bag and pulled out a rolled carpet. With the flick of his wrist it unfurled, he spoke it's command word and began to transition from falling to flying at an angle to the legions of demons running along the river bank. Faltex glided on his wings taking a similar path, but his aim was to focus on a large demon, big strong and ugly by all measure.
When the wizard felt his aim was true he quickly flipped over and rolled the carpet back up and slipped it into his bag. Just in time for a Barlgura to get a face full of a wizard. Galavin, not a scratch on him, hit the demon and rolled off as the monster fell. Nearby demons almost crushed the wizard as they all raced to get the kill, crawling over one another in a frenzy. for their effort all they found was a cloud of smoke. In the air again and for the second time, the wizard fell on the larger demon. Still on it’s back, Galavin landed, leading a hard shoulder into the demon's stomach. Roaring through the pain the demon grabbed Galavin by the head thinking to squeeze the clever wizard and drink from his skull. To the monsters surprise and all its strength the elf's head reminded intact, still casting spells the demon realized! Galavin then sent out a small white bead that smacked the demon right on the nose before it erupted, sending out a wave of energy in all directions. With no time to react the demons head exploded into mush and his body laid broken, nearby lesser demons fells to the ground. Their bodies mangled and disassembled, further out many were able to brace for the sudden wave of force but not without injuries. The wizard took in the sight for a moment, just as a dozen or so demons descended upon him.
...
Faltex came soaring in a few winged devils and demons came up to meet him. Using his magical gifts he casted his trademark spell, blink, before the approaching monsters had a chance to react. The Dragonborn vanished into the Ethereal plane and passed unseen, leaving the monster to turn on each other instead. Faltex appeared right above the Goristro, his chosen target, and promptly exhaled one of his many breath weapons. Acid rained down on the Goristro and the scrambling demons beside the fiend. Wiping away the oozy liquid the Goristro was surprised to the new foe was gone. Ready to Gore the nearest enemy it began to run off but was assaulted from behind by a burning fireball! It's inclination to not react cost it greatly as the fire burned bright white and the parts of it's body turn with acid began to boil and burst at the flamed licked at it's wounds. Standing among many dead demons it flailed wildly and turned just in time to see the dragonborn vanish once again into the Ethereal plane. It charged and swung at the location the sorcerer had once been. Suddenly Faltex came back in to the plane choosing to appear right behind the Goristro and casted a powerful and loud ringing noise just to the left of the Goristro ear. The fiend staggered at the headache and swung out in a circle motion to the it's left. Faltex dodged as best as he could but got clipped sending him to the ground. He had to spend the next few moment in the open, while he waited to shift back. "Need some help" Galavin called out from above. "hold on to something!" Galavin landed next to his partner and began chanting with a wink. As he finished they became weightless. As did every other demon and devil that had just started to push the front line to their position. All together they fell upwards into the red smoky sky! Following Galavin's lead Faltex started his spell, the toughest spell in his repertoire, Meteor Swarm but with the help of Galavin the spell had been altered. Instead of four Fiery Meteors what dropped from the sky were four Illithid Astral dreadnaughts. Just as they all reached the apex of they ascent Galavin released his spell and Faltex finished his. The scene was one of beauty, Faltex and Galavin choose to stay the some hundred feet in the air and watched the destruction. For the Goristro and the many upset fiends it all transpired in slow motion, just as they slammed in to the hell landscape those whom survived trembled in horror as the second spell assaulted their minds, putting fear into all those who saw the spectacle. Instead of brute force and heat the spell attacked their mind, an illusion of sorts.
"Just as planned" Galavin Laughed. It took a moment but the devilish army pushed up to a new "front line" against the horde of demons. A shadow loomed over Galavin and he spun to meet eyes with a large pit fiend. Looking down at the wizard but saying nothing "I am looking for Zariel, you wouldn't happened to know where I can find her?" Galavin spoke loudly in the devil's own language.
"Maybe I have, then again, maybe I haven't." The pit fiend paused before continuing. "Are you thinking I will just give this information, after what you just displayed" The Devil smiled wickedly.
"I favor for a favor, I pushed your front line, you give me information" He gestured in the fighting below.
Feltex slowly moved to the side not wanting to be apart of this particular conversation.
"I know where you can find her." The pit fiend conceded. "You'll find her here, near the Styx" he said smiling at the vague answer and proceeding to punch Galavin in the face, causing the wizard's nose to bleed for he had no defenses up in order to concentrate on his previous spell. The pit fiend retracted his fist before swinging out with his giant mace. Galavin this time brought forth a magical barrier to intercept. "How many hits can you take before your magic fails!" the fiend taunted. Bringing the mace up over his head to hammer down than swinging across his chest, each hit bouncing off the wizard's magic. Faltex moved back and launched a barrage of fiery missiles, too many for the Pit fiend to block. Focusing still on Galavin he pressed the attack getting in the wizard face and trying to run him off his flying carpet. Galavin had to think quickly and figured the best option was to fight the fiend head on. A quick incantation teleported the him behind the fiend some ways, while the Faltex once again assaulted the pit fiend with fiery missiles. Galavin's spell book transmuted into a fine golden gauntlet and latched on to his hand, coming forward into a launch at the fiend. "You dropped this" he said before the gauntleted fist slammed into the fiend blocking mace, but the power behind the fist was too strong and it slipped passed colliding with the fiends face braking off a large tooth. The fiend roared in protest but another fist shut it up as it struck. The fiend, more prepared came in methodically, thinking to wait out the magic and it's own pride. Ready for another magical barrage the fiend dropped suddenly to dodge most of the incoming assault, only getting clipped by a few. The wizard was on him again punching out, and fiend blocking and dodging as best he could.
Galavin could feel his magic fading but wasn't worried for one look at the fiend told him everything. Using his quick incantation he teleported next to Faltex just as his spellbook returned to it's normal form. "Turn him to ash" The Wizard stated bluntly and Faltex nodded in agreement. They finished the spell before the fiend could make the distance and took two green rays that burned the fiend from within. It's eyes went wide, it roared, "not here" it thought. It could win still, it pushed forward, then everything with dark. Galavin and Faltex watched at the Pit fiend turned to dust, it's remain trailing off into the wind.
...
Galavin and Faltex flew in tandem, this time unseen to most eyes, down the river of styx looking for the ruler of Avernus. They traveled until they came upon a large section of the battlefield. It was quite easy for the two to spot her even from their vantage point.
“She looks busy, maybe we can come back later” Faltex said, a bit of unease in his voice.
Galavin chuckled “We can always reschedule I suppose. It does seem she had us double booked” That brought a smile from his partner.
Soon enough they were miles away from the river and walked the surface looking for the perfect spot. “What do you think?” Galavin gesture as they approached a large rock.
“It’s a bit small for my liking, and the color is bland”
Galavin walked over to the face and began casting. A moment later a wooden door manifested itself on the rock, the wood was engraved revealing a bald female face and infernal symbols covered the background. Galavin was taken aback, his extra-planar portal had been warped. He produced a spectral hand that flew over to twist the handle. As the door swung open, Galavin stepped forward again reluctantly peering inside. All seemed normal, he noted; the walls, the floors, and even the lighting all in the likeness of Candlekeep’s interior. The wizard finished his stride, the cool air filling his lungs. After checking for prying eyes Faltex followed Galavin and closed the door.
…
The two met up the next morning at the extra planar mansion’s dinner table. The two enjoy a nice meal and fresh clothes. Galavin read from his large tomb while he ate, preparing for what they’d need for the day. Faltex enjoyed the meal even asking the invisible servants for thirds, Galavin never cared to notice as the plates piled up. Satisfied and hating himself fully, Faltex fell into a short food coma.
He opened his eyes sometime later and groaned as he tried to stand up. Galavin closed his spellbook with a Slap! and stood up as well. “Finished are we”
“Shut up”
The two laughed.
"How do you have time for this again?" Faltex asked as they walked.
Traxigor gazed up at the black orb nervously, uttered a few arcane syllables, and disappeared in the blink of an eye.
“Oh that’s cheating!” Galavin exclaimed.
That brought confused looks from the party and a chuckle out of Faltex. Hubbard and Duane had the sense of Deja vu but still could not put together what spell the great mage had cast.
Suddenly the minotaur charged down the city street deeper into the burning city. The young party sprang into action giving chase. The minotaur had spotted a woman and her children in danger. They attracted the attention of two bearded devils. The minotaur continued his charge around the street corner, so fast indeed he passed the two devils and blocked their path. The first devil could not stop when the horns of the minotaur dipped and came up suddenly to drive through the fiend’s diaphragm and punctured it’s lungs. The rest of the party, not too far behind, turned the corner just in time to launch their barrage of simple spells and arrows. The second even more stunned devil never saw it coming.
…
Galavin waved to the departing party and turned his companion. “They sure have spunk”
“They’re going to run right into the maw of some fiendish monstrosity.” Faltex laughed.
“Then we should head in the direction opposite of them” Galavin said, turning and walking off.
Soon the couple stood on the edge of the city looking down some 500 feet to the raging blood war that was ever present. The river Styx flowed through the middle of the battlefield, a constant war between devils and demons.
“I recommend we avoid jumping into that foul water. If you can even call it that.” Galavin noticed the city floated right above the Styx, slowing descending.
“Yes, I would have to agree with that assessment” Faltex said in a mocking tone.
The wizard smiled. “First one to 100 then?” He asked slyly
“I can think of a larger number”
“Typical”
The Dragonborn Laughed “Do we have a time limit? I know you’d hate to be late to whatever meetings you’ve arranged.” again in a mocking tone.
The wizard quickly retrieved small piece of adamantine and went into casting, finishing with a flourish, he had enchanted himself with a strong enchantment able to defeat any incoming attacks. “I’d say we have about half my spells worth” He said before falling sidelong off the edge.
The falling elf reached into his extra dimensional bag and pulled out a rolled carpet. With the flick of his wrist it unfurled, he spoke it's command word and began to transition from falling to flying at an angle to the legions of demons running along the river bank. Faltex glided on his wings taking a similar path, but his aim was to focus on a large demon, big strong and ugly by all measure.
When the wizard felt his aim was true he quickly flipped over and rolled the carpet back up and slipped it into his bag. Just in time for a Barlgura to get a face full of a wizard. Galavin, not a scratch on him, hit the demon and rolled off as the monster fell. Nearby demons almost crushed the wizard as they all raced to get the kill, crawling over one another in a frenzy. for their effort all they found was a cloud of smoke. In the air again and for the second time, the wizard fell on the larger demon. Still on it’s back, Galavin landed, leading a hard shoulder into the demon's stomach. Roaring through the pain the demon grabbed Galavin by the head thinking to squeeze the clever wizard and drink from his skull. To the monsters surprise and all its strength the elf's head reminded intact, still casting spells the demon realized! Galavin then sent out a small white bead that smacked the demon right on the nose before it erupted, sending out a wave of energy in all directions. With no time to react the demons head exploded into mush and his body laid broken, nearby lesser demons fells to the ground. Their bodies mangled and disassembled, further out many were able to brace for the sudden wave of force but not without injuries. The wizard took in the sight for a moment, just as a dozen or so demons descended upon him.
...
Faltex came soaring in a few winged devils and demons came up to meet him. Using his magical gifts he casted his trademark spell, blink, before the approaching monsters had a chance to react. The Dragonborn vanished into the Ethereal plane and passed unseen, leaving the monster to turn on each other instead. Faltex appeared right above the Goristro, his chosen target, and promptly exhaled one of his many breath weapons. Acid rained down on the Goristro and the scrambling demons beside the fiend. Wiping away the oozy liquid the Goristro was surprised to the new foe was gone. Ready to Gore the nearest enemy it began to run off but was assaulted from behind by a burning fireball! It's inclination to not react cost it greatly as the fire burned bright white and the parts of it's body turn with acid began to boil and burst at the flamed licked at it's wounds. Standing among many dead demons it flailed wildly and turned just in time to see the dragonborn vanish once again into the Ethereal plane. It charged and swung at the location the sorcerer had once been. Suddenly Faltex came back in to the plane choosing to appear right behind the Goristro and casted a powerful and loud ringing noise just to the left of the Goristro ear. The fiend staggered at the headache and swung out in a circle motion to the it's left. Faltex dodged as best as he could but got clipped sending him to the ground. He had to spend the next few moment in the open, while he waited to shift back. "Need some help" Galavin called out from above. "hold on to something!" Galavin landed next to his partner and began chanting with a wink. As he finished they became weightless. As did every other demon and devil that had just started to push the front line to their position. All together they fell upwards into the red smoky sky! Following Galavin's lead Faltex started his spell, the toughest spell in his repertoire, Meteor Swarm but with the help of Galavin the spell had been altered. Instead of four Fiery Meteors what dropped from the sky were four Illithid Astral dreadnaughts. Just as they all reached the apex of they ascent Galavin released his spell and Faltex finished his. The scene was one of beauty, Faltex and Galavin choose to stay the some hundred feet in the air and watched the destruction. For the Goristro and the many upset fiends it all transpired in slow motion, just as they slammed in to the hell landscape those whom survived trembled in horror as the second spell assaulted their minds, putting fear into all those who saw the spectacle. Instead of brute force and heat the spell attacked their mind, an illusion of sorts.
"Just as planned" Galavin Laughed. It took a moment but the devilish army pushed up to a new "front line" against the horde of demons. A shadow loomed over Galavin and he spun to meet eyes with a large pit fiend. Looking down at the wizard but saying nothing "I am looking for Zariel, you wouldn't happened to know where I can find her?" Galavin spoke loudly in the devil's own language.
"Maybe I have, then again, maybe I haven't." The pit fiend paused before continuing. "Are you thinking I will just give this information, after what you just displayed" The Devil smiled wickedly.
"I favor for a favor, I pushed your front line, you give me information" He gestured in the fighting below.
Feltex slowly moved to the side not wanting to be apart of this particular conversation.
"I know where you can find her." The pit fiend conceded. "You'll find her here, near the Styx" he said smiling at the vague answer and proceeding to punch Galavin in the face, causing the wizard's nose to bleed for he had no defenses up in order to concentrate on his previous spell. The pit fiend retracted his fist before swinging out with his giant mace. Galavin this time brought forth a magical barrier to intercept. "How many hits can you take before your magic fails!" the fiend taunted. Bringing the mace up over his head to hammer down than swinging across his chest, each hit bouncing off the wizard's magic. Faltex moved back and launched a barrage of fiery missiles, too many for the Pit fiend to block. Focusing still on Galavin he pressed the attack getting in the wizard face and trying to run him off his flying carpet. Galavin had to think quickly and figured the best option was to fight the fiend head on. A quick incantation teleported the him behind the fiend some ways, while the Faltex once again assaulted the pit fiend with fiery missiles. Galavin's spell book transmuted into a fine golden gauntlet and latched on to his hand, coming forward into a launch at the fiend. "You dropped this" he said before the gauntleted fist slammed into the fiend blocking mace, but the power behind the fist was too strong and it slipped passed colliding with the fiends face braking off a large tooth. The fiend roared in protest but another fist shut it up as it struck. The fiend, more prepared came in methodically, thinking to wait out the magic and it's own pride. Ready for another magical barrage the fiend dropped suddenly to dodge most of the incoming assault, only getting clipped by a few. The wizard was on him again punching out, and fiend blocking and dodging as best he could.
Galavin could feel his magic fading but wasn't worried for one look at the fiend told him everything. Using his quick incantation he teleported next to Faltex just as his spellbook returned to it's normal form. "Turn him to ash" The Wizard stated bluntly and Faltex nodded in agreement. They finished the spell before the fiend could make the distance and took two green rays that burned the fiend from within. It's eyes went wide, it roared, "not here" it thought. It could win still, it pushed forward, then everything with dark. Galavin and Faltex watched at the Pit fiend turned to dust, it's remain trailing off into the wind.
...
Galavin and Faltex flew in tandem, this time unseen to most eyes, down the river of styx looking for the ruler of Avernus. They traveled until they came upon a large section of the battlefield. It was quite easy for the two to spot her even from their vantage point.
“She looks busy, maybe we can come back later” Faltex said, a bit of unease in his voice.
Galavin chuckled “We can always reschedule I suppose. It does seem she had us double booked” That brought a smile from his partner.
Soon enough they were miles away from the river and walked the surface looking for the perfect spot. “What do you think?” Galavin gesture as they approached a large rock.
“It’s a bit small for my liking, and the color is bland”
Galavin walked over to the face and began casting. A moment later a wooden door manifested itself on the rock, the wood was engraved revealing a bald female face and infernal symbols covered the background. Galavin was taken aback, his extra-planar portal had been warped. He produced a spectral hand that flew over to twist the handle. As the door swung open, Galavin stepped forward again reluctantly peering inside. All seemed normal, he noted; the walls, the floors, and even the lighting all in the likeness of Candlekeep’s interior. The wizard finished his stride, the cool air filling his lungs. After checking for prying eyes Faltex followed Galavin and closed the door.
…
The two met up the next morning at the extra planar mansion’s dinner table. The two enjoy a nice meal and fresh clothes. Galavin read from his large tomb while he ate, preparing for what they’d need for the day. Faltex enjoyed the meal even asking the invisible servants for thirds, Galavin never cared to notice as the plates piled up. Satisfied and hating himself fully, Faltex fell into a short food coma.
He opened his eyes sometime later and groaned as he tried to stand up. Galavin closed his spellbook with a Slap! and stood up as well. “Finished are we”
“Shut up”
The two laughed.
"How do you have time for this again?" Faltex asked as they walked.
"Oh, I'm taking my sabbatical." Galavin explained
"A whattical?"
Galavin went on. "It is long vacation, but for teachers.
The two stepped out of their extra planar mansion into the hellish wasteland. “This is one radical sabbatical" Faltex stated.
…
After an hour of flying the two saw the city of Elturel, it had taken them twice as long this day to travel the distance, than it had the previous day. Finishing the distance to Zariel’s location they were distracted by the new site. A tall floating tower, black in color and shaped like a blade. “She must really like you” Faltex stated slyly.
“I have a feeling that is not a gift”
“It is if we steal it”
That brought a look from Galavin.
“It’s not the biggest thing we’ve stolen” the dragonborn exclaimed.
Galavin had to concede the point, turning to look at the ship again, he was already imagining the large structure floating next to the Wraith Tower. That was it he decided, looking back to Faltex who was still looking at the elf. The two shared a knowing look, a look often seen plastered across their faces, they would at least try.
Devils lined up in ranks before the horde of demons, they embodied discipline in the face of chaos and showed the extent of their training. The demons had numbers though and it was one of their few advantages, the sheer amount of enemies that faced hell, an endless supply from the abyss.
As the two mages observed the scene, they watched as Zariel flew about her ranks barking orders, stepping in when she had to, sometimes demoting soldiers right then and there. Transforming them into lesser devils where they stood.
Eventually Zariel broke from the fight to fly over to her floating ship. The couple took their chance, diving right after her passing by the many devils flying about the structure. Standing guard the pit fiend saw the two invisible mages land thinking themselves to be unseen. Looking for a fight the fiend strode over, his large mace dragging lazily from his right hand. Faltex noticed the approaching devil and slapped Galavin across the chest with an outstretched arm, they had been seen by the pit fiends powerful sight.
“I got this” the dragonborn stated. Pulling out in front of the wizard, producing a scroll from his pouch. He stood tall, unfurled the scroll and started “reading” Galavin, behind him, stuck a “superior” pose.
“Hear ye, hear ye.” This gave the pit fiend pause. Faltex continued. “The Arch Mage Galavin Wraith, first of his name, master of the Wraith Guild, Inventor of many magics, and slayer of the ancient white dragon Yealesthoth; has come to do business with Zariel, in the stead of the Great Master of Intrigue Loucifiel Morningstar, Ex-Morningstar, CSO of the East Waterdeep Trading Company, Enjoyer of Long walks and beaches.
The pit fiend closed his mouth and straightened, He could not deny the official entrance even if it was unexpected. He said nothing and turned to the doorway some ways behind him. The mages began to tail the fiend but a look over his shoulder halted them. The large fiend disappeared inside.
I few curious devils flew closer to the landing platform, most understand the risk of peeking too closely to matters not meant for them. The mages, still invisible, kept up a defensive posture and anxiously waiting. When the pit fiend finally returned he waved them to enter the ship.
“Could we not do our meeting outside in the fresh air” Faltex yelled over.
No response. The fiend only stared, exhaling steam through his big red nose.
Galavin took the lead this time whispering “The longer we’re inside the more we learn how to steal it”
“Is it worth death?” Faltex began. Thinking now might not be the best time for new real-estate.
“Make it” Galavin smiled as the two entered.
...
“Thank you for having us” Galavin started. The two stood in the center of a large, dimly lit chamber. Off to their right stood the pit fiend, and Zariel was standing some feet in front and glared at the two uninvited guests.
“Who are you?” she replied, her voice full of venom.
“I’m Galavin Wraith” came a happy and quick reply
“Never heard of you”
Galavin cleared his throat. “We are here on behalf of Louie, Loucifiel Morningstar. ”
“Never heard of him”
“We were told the ruler of Avernus sot after Louie for his.. expertise.”
“Watch your tongue elf, I’ve sent for no help. Let alone from a lesser race. Now be gone before I kill you for this absurd accusation.” She began to turn and walk away but Galavin spoke again stopping her. “Our apologies. Who would be so weak as to call for aid? You wouldn't happen to know, would you?”
A cruel smile spread across Zariel's face but quickly faded. “Trying to strike a deal are we? Because I have an offer myself.”
Galavin offered a look to Faltex who responded “I ain’t making no deals. I like my soul right where it is.”
Galavin signed. “I’m listening”
“Good." She went on. "The creature that I... took over for is plotting something. Find out what you can, if the information you gather is adequate then I will reward you with what you desire.”
Galavin thought for a moment before answering, not wanting to keep the Archdevil waiting. "I wanna know who I'm spying on before i agree"
Now it was Zariel's time to think. She did not want the elf refusing the deal but desperately needed more "allies" watching over Bel. "Bel" She finely stated.
Galavin tried to recall what he could. All those years ago, back in Candlekeep he had learned about the Nine Hells. Bel must be as strong as Zariel he correctly concluded. Why else would she be worried. But he didn't know much about the fiend, he had Faltex, as strong an ally ever. "I will do this task for you, but I will sign no contracts until I feel I have the information.
Zariel silently cursed at herself but did not show it. "Fine" She will get her information she thought. One way or another, either this Galavin will agree to the contract or maybe the dumb elf will accidentally offer it up for free. Still, she was not pleased with the overall outcome, She thought to press the matter, even capture and torture the two before they left. No she'll let them leave, too much potential she decided.
The two took their cue as Zariel turned her back to them and left the chamber, the pit fiend, still to their right and still ugly, looked as if it were about to launch at the two. So they left.
"We don't even know were Bel is" Faltex stated after the two were far gone from the ship and even the blood war. "You should have asked her, honestly I let you do the talking and now look."
"Me do all the talking?" Galavin stopped flying to engage with his partner. "I always do the talking, if you wanted to talk then you should have talked."
"Oh and lose my soul. Good idea."
"Why are you so agitated? We got information, I didn't loss my soul, and we at least have a name."
"I don't trust it, the name, or her for that matter. This whole trip is a waste of time for a company that doesn't even pay me."
"This is about gold now? And it's not for the company it's for me. You don't want to help out a friend?"
"I'm helping you, which is helping Louie, which it guess what. Helping the company!" Faltex roared that last sentence.
Galavin took a deep breath. "What troubles you friend? If it's gold I can pay you, complements of the Wraith Guild. Which you are apart of."
"No it's really not about the money. I just don't want to lose my closes friend. Again." Faltex finally admited.
"I'll be fine, no contracts, I promise. Plus I don't need the contract to get what we want."
Faltex rose and eyebrow and smiled a little. "go one"
"It's simple" Galavin went on. "Louie gets captured, we save him and get the letter from hell. That letter was from Bel asking for help, more so demanding help. We show up and go to Zariel which means Bel saw us go to Zariel, which means he will want to know what she knows. Bargain a little to strike a deal, Louie shows up and puts it all in writing. Then last and most excitingly we fight more devils and demons.
"I like it. One thing though. I still think she's playing us. There's no way she'd give us that information and then let us leave without a fight or a contract." Faltex explained.
Galavin pondered. "That is likely true. We should get use to the idea that someone is always watching us."
"Or listening. We could use telepathy?" Faltex reasoned.
"Not likely" Galavin continued. "It is possible for them to read or intercept our messages. We're not playing on our home turf, which means they won't be playing fair"
"Then We will just have to cheat" Faltex pointed out. "one last thing, before I forget." before Galavin could respond. "No contracts"
"No contracts" Galavin confirmed, putting Faltex as ease. A smile returning to his face already.
