The Stag Campaign - Completed Book 1
Book 1
Chapter 1 - Grahl’s Gift
1st of Mirtul, 1492
The staff clicks along the river rocks that would be underwater during the rainy season, the gnome stepping carefully as he examines the gravel and larger rocks. Nimly Sparkleshine crouches to look closer at a minute glinting speck, and turns to look upstream, shading his eyes; the course of the waterway is hidden for now by the dense forest that obscures all but a few distant peaks. He stands up and writes three quick lines in a leather-bound journal, snaps it shut, and returns to the wide beaten path next to the Whispering Woods that eventually leads to the city of Everlund. The staff is taller than the gnome and is slender, with an intricately carved rat at the top and a succession of Earth and Nature runes running down the length of it.
As it so often is, his path was set by another, though he happily walks it. Nimly’s patron is a creature of Grumbar, and this creature has given him the task to survey the area and locate an appropriately rich cache of gemstones within the Whispering Woods. There is often a fee for such work, beyond the magic granted to him from his patron; his hip twitches and a stoutly stitched leather pouch rises and falls back against his leg, a comforting weight of gems of various types inside. He has known his patron, an earth elemental named Grahl, for nineteen years now. The elemental had offered him power while Nimly was in mortal danger, cut off from the mining party he had been with and being relentlessly pursued by a hook horror. The gifts from the elemental allowed Nimly to phase through solid rock, escaping deftly from the enraged beast. A long twisting path of choices and tragedy led the young gnome to the surface, where he has spent the last five years.
Nimly has traveled south from Silverymoon to search in the Whispering Woods, a region of forest west of the town of Everlund. He is somewhat familiar with the city, and he will gladly pay in gems for a bed and a meal at the Silver Stag Inn, where he plans to restock provisions and gather information on a likely place to start looking.
Alone next to the Whispering Woods, Nimly feels the insistent pull of his patron, urging him towards a mysterious mine hidden deep within the forest. The air crackles with arcane energy, and he knows the patron's desires should not be ignored.
He begins to make camp as the sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the forest floor. As he makes preparations for a fire, he feels the familiar tug on his mind - a beckoning from his patron. Closing his eyes, he sees a vision unfold before him.
Standing at the mouth of a dark and forbidding mine, he hears the voice of his patron, commanding and persuasive.
Grahl: "My faithful servant, heed my call. Within this mine lies a treasure of great value—gems of untold power. Go forth and claim them for me. Your reward shall be fitting—a mount, swift and fierce, to aid you in your endeavors. Waste no time, for the shadows grow long."
With the vision fading, Nimly is under no illusions on what Grahl wants.
For the slow count of ten, Nimly stares down the road towards Everlund. He sees a vision purely of his own imagination. The steam rising from a bowl of stew drifts past the sashaying hips of a red-haired barmaid and up towards the rough wooden beams of the ceiling. Delicious ale sits in a half drunk tankard. The notes of a lute are playing that song that he keeps hearing everywhere and … the vision fades and he rolls his eyes. Elementals don’t really understand creature comforts as a motivator or an excuse.
He gathers the tinder he had just laid, and he shoulders his pack.
Guided by the delicate manipulations of his patron, he sets out. The Whispering Woods are dense with ancient trees, their gnarled branches intertwining to form a natural cathedral overhead. Shafts of sunlight pierce the canopy, illuminating patches of the forest floor carpeted with moss and scattered with vibrant, otherworldly flowers. The air is thick with the scent of cedar and damp earth, and the distant calls of unseen creatures echo through the trees.
As Nimly navigates the tangled maze of vegetation, he catches a glimpse of something extraordinary. A majestic silver stag stands in a small clearing ahead, its coat shimmering with an ethereal light. The creature’s eyes meet his, and for a moment, time seems to stand still. The stag exudes a sense of ancient wisdom and untamed power, its presence both awe-inspiring and unsettling.
The silver stag bows its head slightly before darting off into the depths of the forest, disappearing as quickly as Nimly watches. He is left with a sense of wonder and a feeling that the journey holds even greater mysteries than he anticipated.
After several hours, he reaches his destination - a desolate clearing where the mine’s entrance lies hidden beneath a canopy of vines and moss, its maw dark and foreboding.
After consulting a compass and making notes in his book, Nimly stows both. He pulls his crossbow from the tie straps on his pack, cranks the bow back and loads a bolt, hanging it in easy reach on his belt. He tries to determine if there are any recent signs of humanoid traffic into this mine. He rolls an Insight check and gets a 15.
Nimly notices faint footprints in the dirt leading into the mine. The prints are relatively fresh, suggesting that someone or something humanoid has entered the mine recently. There are also a few broken branches and disturbed vegetation around the entrance, indicating recent movement.
Nimly enters the mine and is enveloped in comfortable darkness, save for the faint glow of luminescent fungi clinging to the damp walls. The air inside is cool and stale, carrying the faint scent of sulfur. His footsteps echo through the cavernous tunnels, each step stirring up small clouds of dust and dislodging loose stones.
As he ventures deeper, he comes to a fork in the path. Two tunnels stretch out before him, one to the left and one to the right. Nimly rolls Investigation and gets a 9.
He picks up a rock the size of a medium potato, casts Light on it, and places it inside his belt pouch. He thinks real hard about which way to go, but nothing obvious occurs to him. He turns left and proceeds.
2nd of Mirtul, 1492
The left tunnel is narrow and winding, the walls closing in slightly as Nimly moves deeper. The warlock calls up an illusion using Silent Image, and a large rat appears and moves ahead, scouting the path and possibly triggering any hidden dangers. As they progress, Nimly keeps a watchful eye, the tension mounting with each step. The air grows cooler, and the tunnel begins to widen, opening into a larger cavern. From one step to the next, Nimly looks up and finds himself in a magnificent cavern. The walls are studded with glittering gems, their surfaces reflecting the faint light emanating from Nimly's pouch in a dazzling array of colors. The sight is breathtaking.
He takes out the illuminated rock and sets it at head height against the wall amidst some crystal. He looks around again, trying to assess any other things of note within the cavern and whether the tunnel he traveled through is the only entrance to the cavern. He rolls Investigation and gets a 21.
Nimly's sharp eyes discern a faint glimmer of light reflecting off a small crevice in the far corner of the cavern, obscured by clusters of gemstones. Moving closer, he discovers a narrow opening leading to a hidden passage, partially concealed by natural rock formations. He can tell by looking that beyond the entrance lies a network of tunnels. The potential of further exploration and potential discoveries lie further into the mine. He does not sense any danger in the gem cavern.
The enchanted rock sits amongst the gems and glows a warm comforting glow. It stands as a silent sentinel, serving as a reminder of Nimly's resourcefulness and ingenuity in the face of darkness.
Nimly takes two minimally worked spherical small gems from his pouch. He locates an outcropping of rock that, if removed, would cause the symmetry of the cavern to increase, casts Mold Earth on it and deposits it in the center of the cavern. With ten minutes of careful work, he creates a pedestal in two pieces, where the base is solidly attached to the cavern floor as if it grew over time, and a platter above it that sits on the pedestal with the statue of an earth elemental growing out of it. In the last moments of the ritual, he tosses the gems above the statue and speaks a phrase of welcome in Terran, wherein the gems snap into place where eyes would be and the platter begins to rotate slowly. The gems began to glitter with an inner light.
As the ritual reaches its climax, the air crackles with arcane energy, and the earth beneath Nimly’s feet trembles with anticipation.
The pedestal and statue shake as Grahl takes form from them.
The elemental manifests in the material plane; their presence is both awe-inspiring and intimidating.
Their form is rocky and rugged, weathered with jagged edges and fissures criss-crossing their surface like ancient runes carved into stone. Grahl’s eyes, glittering gems of fiery orange that burn with intensity, shine brightly in the lit up and sparkling cavern.
As Grahl speaks, their voice resonates with the deep rumble of shifting earth.
“Nimly, my faithful servant. You have summoned me. Have you found that which I seek?”
As the statue slowly turns, Nimly paces to the left to stay centered. In Terran, he croaks and clicks and swooshes his reply. “Grahl, your support and stability is legendary. Thank you for hearing my call. I wish to draw your attention to the contents of this cavern, full of crystals and gems of more than a dozen types.” He pops open his journal and hops over a large rock while continuing to pace. “I have recorded the location of this mine in relation to the Everlund road for any future locating needs. How may I further serve in regard to the disposition of these jewels?”
Grahl speaks, and the stone statue radiates contentment. “Well done, Nimly. Your loyalty and perseverance is duly noted. Now, stand back and observe.”
As Nimly steps back, the ground within the cavern trembles. From the rocky floor, several smaller earth elementals emerge, their bodies formed from the very rock and soil of the mine. With single-minded purpose, they begin to collect the gems, cradling them within their stony hands. As the gems are collected, the elementals once again return to the floor and walls of the cavern, the gems disappearing with them.
Grahl booms, “Take this creature as your mount. Let it serve you well, as you continue to serve me.”
In a whirl of shadows, a massive giant rat materializes before Nimly, its fur dark and sleek, eyes gleaming with intelligence and loyalty. Their muscles ripple under their glossy coat, and they regard Nimly with a fierce, protective gaze.
With this final command, Grahl prepares to depart from their earth elemental form. The cavern is bathed in a soft, ethereal light, casting shadows that dance and flicker across the rugged stone walls. With a slow and deliberate motion, Grahl begins to retract their essence, gradually shrinking and returning to the form of the statue that was deftly crafted by Nimly.
With their departure, the cavern returns to its natural state, the quiet solitude broken only by the gentle drip of water echoing from distant stalactites. Nimly retrieves the glowing rock from the wall near a cluster of crystals.
Nimly opens his pack and takes out the last of his cheese. He peels back the rind and breaks it in half. He stows one half and holds out the other to the rat. “Hello, friend. May I offer you some cheese? I have business in Everlund and I hope you will join me. My name is Nimly Sparkleshine.”
The giant rat scurries over and gently takes the offered piece of cheese from Nimly, their whiskers twitching with delight. The rat gnaws on the cheese with gusto, the sound of their careful nibbles echoing softly through the cavern.
The giant rat, now energized by the cheesy snack, scurries to Nimly’s side, ready for the next leg of their adventure. Nimly tentatively mounts the rat, the warm fur covering a muscled form that provides a surprisingly comfortable seat. With a gentle nudge, the rat begins to move, navigating the cavern with ease and agility.
The cavern soon gives way to the open air as they emerge from the mine. Nimly takes a moment to orient himself, the familiar scent of the forest filing his lungs. He looks to the southeast, where the city of Everlund awaits.
Chapter 2 : The Folk Hero’s Oath
1st of Mirtul, 1492 DR
The mayor's office is a modest room lined with shelves of books and maps. A large oak desk, cluttered with papers and documents, stands in the center. Sunlight streams through a small window, casting a warm glow over the room. Mayor Shasta Windrider sits behind the desk, her face marked with concern as she reviews a map of the High Forest.
The door creaks open and Valeria steps inside, her plate armor clinking softly with each step. Mayor Windrider looks up, a relieved smile spreading across her face. "Valeria, thank you for coming. Please, have a seat."
Valeria takes a chair opposite the mayor, her towering presence making the room feel even smaller. She studies the map on the desk, her eyes narrowing at the sight of the High Forest. She says, "Mayor Windrider, you mentioned strange disturbances and missing villagers. What do you believe is causing this?"
The mayor leans back in her chair, sighing deeply. "The High Forest has always been enigmatic, but recently, the place has become hostile. Unusual weather, unnatural creatures... and now, our own people are vanishing without a trace. We suspect it's connected to a legendary relic called the Whispering Chalice, said to be hidden deep within the forest."
Valeria's eyes widened with interest. She leans forward, her curiosity piqued, "The Whispering Chalice? What do you know about it?"
"The Chalice is believed to hold great power over the forest and its spirits. If we can recover it, we might be able to restore balance and protect our town. But the journey will be perilous. We need someone strong, brave, and skilled—someone like you."
Valeria's mind races with the possibilities. She feels a sense of destiny pulling her towards this mission, a call she cannot ignore. "I will do it. I will recover the Whispering Chalice and bring it back to you. The people of Colton deserve to live without fear."
Mayor Windrider’s eyes light up with hope.
"Thank you, Valeria. Your courage means everything to us. Once you have the Chalice, however, you must not bring it back here. It must be taken to Everlund. The authorities there, either the High Priest of the Temple of Lathander or the head of the local mage guild… they have the knowledge and resources to properly contain and utilize the relic's power."
Valeria nods, understanding the gravity of her mission. "I won't let you down, Mayor Windrider. I will bring peace back to Colton and ensure the Chalice is safely delivered to Everlund."
The mayor rises from her chair and extends her hand. Valeria shakes it firmly, sealing her commitment to the quest. "May Annam All-Father guide you on your journey, Valeria. The town will be forever grateful for your bravery. And for the town, to strengthen the hearts of our people, I will give you this commission in front of the citizens. I had to talk it through with you first, though. I had to know that we could count on you.
Valeria nods, her heart filled with resolve. She turns and leaves the office, ready to face both the theatrics and challenges ahead.
As Valeria steps out of the mayor's office, the town square comes into view. The villagers are already gathering, their faces marked with worry and anticipation. Valeria takes a deep breath, her mind focused on the task at hand. She strides towards the center of the square, ready to embody their hopes and begin her quest.
As she walks forward, her imposing figure is clad in gleaming plate armor. Her long, braided blonde hair glistens in the morning light, and her more typical mischievous grin is replaced by a look of determination. The fountain at the center of the square, usually a symbol of tranquility, now seems a somber reminder of the town’s plight.
Mayor Windrider, a tall woman with silver-streaked auburn hair and piercing green eyes, steps forward. Her regal bearing is evident, though her worry for her people is plain on her face. She raises a hand to quiet the crowd before speaking.
"Citizens of Colton. The High Forest has always been a place of mystery, but never have we felt the threat from it like we do these days. Strange weather! Unnatural creatures. Our own people, disappearing... Something ancient and powerful is at work. I have taken the step of sending a champion of our people to face this threat. Valeria, come forward."
The mayor hands Valeria a scroll, its seal bearing the emblem of Colton. "This is a map to guide you to the Whispering Chalice, an artifact believed to control the spirits of the forest. Our historian, Elder Thrain Stonebrew, can tell you more about it. Our priestess of Lathander, Sister Meriel, has guidance to ease your path.”
The mayor gestures to a stout dwarf standing nearby. Elder Thrain Stonebrew, with his long, braided beard and eyes somber behind round spectacles, steps forward. He speaks with a voice rich with years of wisdom.
"Lass, the Whispering Chalice is more than a relic. It's a conduit of nature's power, hidden deep within the forest. You'll face many trials to reach it, but with the blessing of Annam All-Father, I'm confident you can prevail."
Sister Meriel steps forward, a serene elven priestess in flowing robes of pale blue. She offers a small pouch with three healing potions. "Take these blessings with you, Valeria. They are potions of healing, and they will aid you in your journey. May the light of Lathander guide you."
Valeria accepts these gifts, knowing the hope that has been invested in her in this moment. She speaks, “People of Colton, long have I considered you all my family. And now I have the duty and honor to protect my family. I go forth with the blessings of Annam All-Father, but knowing I'm ensuring my family’s safety is the greatest of all blessings!" With a flourish, Valeria casts Prestidigitation, making her armor gleam brightly in the sunlight. The villagers gasp and cheer, their spirits lifted by her display of confidence and power. With a final nod to the gathered townsfolk, Valeria turns towards the edge of the forest. The High Forest looms ahead, the ancient trees shrouded in mystery. Taking a deep breath, Valeria steps forward, her heart set on the quest ahead.
As Valeria enters the dense foliage, the air grows cooler, and the sounds of the village fade behind her. The path is overgrown, barely visible among the twisting roots and thick underbrush. The whispering of the trees seems to grow louder, as if the forest itself is speaking in hushed tones.
The path west from Colton to the High Forest is narrow and overgrown, flanked by tall grasses and wildflowers swaying gently in the breeze. Valeria walks with purpose, her plate armor making a rhythmic clinking sound with each step. Birds chirp cautiously, and the occasional rustle in the underbrush suggests the presence of unseen wildlife.
As Valeria walks, she glances at the map Mayor Windrunner gave her, ensuring she stays on the right path. Her thoughts drift to the villagers' faces, their hope and trust placed squarely on her shoulders.
The forest starts to grow darker and more oppressive as she ventures further. The whispering grows louder, almost as if trying to communicate directly with her. Valeria’s senses remain sharp, every rustle and snap of a twig putting her on high alert.
As she travels, she is aware of animal tracks here and there along the path. Drawing her sword, she carefully examines the prints, noting depth and direction, as she tries to determine if the tracks that she has seen are more likely to be predator or prey.
She mumbles to herself as she studies them. Surprised, she finds both.
"These hooved tracks are fresh, probably deer. But these... these are something else."
She traces the claw marks with her fingers, her expression thoughtful.
"Predators. Wolves, most likely. And from the looks of it, a sizable pack. This could get interesting."
She stands, her grip tightening on her sword hilt. The thought of facing a pack of wolves doesn't deter her; it invigorates her.
"If the forest is as alive as it feels, then I'll need to be ready for anything."
No sooner do the words leave her lips than the underbrush rustles ominously. Three wolves, their eyes gleaming with a predatory hunger, slink out of the shadows. The leader of the pack lets out a low snarl, signaling the attack.
Valeria, her senses honed and muscles tensed, stands her ground. Her sword glints in the moonlight as she raises it, ready to defend herself against the imminent threat.
The wolves circle her, their movements synchronized and predatory. One leaps forward, fangs bared and aiming for her throat. Valeria pivots gracefully, bringing her sword down in a swift, lethal arc. The blade cuts through fur and flesh, severing the wolf's artery with precision. Blood sprays the forest floor as the wolf collapses, its snarls turning to whimpers before it lies still.
With adrenaline coursing through her veins, Valeria turns to face the remaining wolves. She throws her head back and lets out a fierce, primal roar. The sound reverberates through the trees, a challenge and a warning. "Come on, then! Face me, if you dare!"
The two wolves, taken aback by the sudden ferocity, glance at their fallen comrade. They growl and howl in unison, but the fight has left their eyes. Slowly, they begin to retreat, slipping back into the shadows from which they came.
With the immediate danger passed, Valeria takes a moment to catch her breath. She approaches the fallen wolf, her keen eyes scanning for anything unusual. She finds only the usual items: teeth, fur, and meat. Nothing out of the ordinary.
Deciding to leave the corpse for the forest's scavengers, Valeria steps back. The mess from the battle clings to her armor and skin, but with a simple wave of her hand and a muttered incantation, she casts Prestidigitation. The grime and blood vanish, leaving her clean and ready for the next challenge.
Valeria takes one last look at the fallen wolf before turning her gaze back to the path ahead. The forest, alive and whispering with secrets, waits for no one. She steels herself, ready for whatever may come next, and strides forward with renewed determination. "The forest is alive, and so am I. Onwards."
With her sword at the ready and her senses alert, Valeria prepares to continue her journey through the High Forest, ever vigilant and ready for the unknown dangers that lie ahead.
Chapter 3: Capers and Treasures
3rd of Hammer, 1492
Yávië Ru, a former hand for the Witchlight Carnival, had lived most her life amidst the magic and chaos of the Feywild, her days filled with wonder and enchantment. However, her journey took an unexpected turn several months ago when an incompetent wizard, attempting a complex summoning spell, had botched the incantation. Instead of drawing forth the creature he intended, he inadvertently summoned Yávië to the Material Plane. The wizard, blissfully unaware of his spell's success, went about his business, oblivious to the fact that he had summoned Yávië to Myth Drannor instead of to himself.
Yávië's arrival in the Material Plane was sudden and disorienting. One moment, she was amidst the colorful tents and lively sounds of the Witchlight Carnival, and the next, she found herself in the ancient ruins of Myth Drannor. The city's once grand architecture, now crumbled and overgrown, stood in stark contrast to the vibrant and ever-changing scenery of the carnival.
Though initially bewildered, Yávië soon adapted to her new surroundings. With her natural curiosity and mischievous spirit, she explored the ruins, uncovering hidden nooks and crannies, and making the acquaintance of the various magical creatures that still lingered in the area. Her fey nature allowed her to charm her way into the hearts of the local inhabitants, and she quickly found herself embroiled in lighthearted mischief and playful antics.
During her time in Myth Drannor, Yávië delighted in causing harmless trouble. She enchanted the local wildlife to play tricks on the residents, swapped signs to lead people on wild goose chases, and used her innate magical abilities to create whimsical illusions. The locals, initially wary of the mysterious Eladrin, soon came to enjoy her playful presence, their lives momentarily brightened by her antics.
Despite the fun, Yávië knew she couldn't stay in Myth Drannor forever. Her spirit craved exploration and adventure, the thrill of the unknown, and the excitement of new places. With a heavy heart, she bid farewell to the friends she had made and set her sights on the next chapter of her journey.
Her wanderings eventually led her to the bustling town of Triboar, a place of constant activity and opportunity. Here, Yávië hoped to find new adventures and make the most of her time in the Material Plane.
In Triboar, Yávië’s knack for chaos and trickery danced the fine line between charm and exasperation. Her recent masterpiece, an elaborate prank on the town's wealthiest merchant, had become the talk of the town, a blend of awe and irritation rippling through the streets.
30th of Tarsakh, 1492
Yávië, always one to entertain herself and others with her antics, decided to target Orvis, the town's wealthiest and most pompous merchant. Orvis was hosting a grand feast to celebrate his success, with the centerpiece being an enormous and elaborately decorated pie made with the rarest and most expensive ingredients.
Yávië, with the help of her charming and stealthy nature, managed to sneak into Orvis's estate during the preparations. Using her Fey Step ability, she teleported past the guards and servants unnoticed. She then used her trickery domain spells to create distractions and illusions, leading the kitchen staff on a wild goose chase.
While the staff was occupied, Yávië cleverly replaced the prized pie with a decoy that looked identical but was filled with harmless, colorful fireworks and confetti. During the feast, when Orvis proudly unveiled the pie and cut into it, the room exploded in a burst of colors and laughter, leaving the guests in awe and Orvis humiliated.
Lady Mirabelle, who attended the feast, and recognized the unmistakable touch of Yávië’s mischief, found herself both impressed and intrigued by her audacity and skill. With a glint of cunning in her eye, she approached her with a task—a challenge that promised significant reward.
1st of Mirtul, 1492
The sun is setting, casting a warm, golden glow over Lady Mirabelle Stormsword’s estate. The grand manor, surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens, exudes an air of elegance and opulence. Servants move about with practiced grace, tending to their duties as the noblewoman awaits her guest in the study.
The study itself is a testament to Lady Mirabelle's adventurous spirit. Shelves are filled with ancient tomes and rare artifacts line the walls. A large, ornate desk sits in the center, covered in maps, scrolls, and curiosities collected from various expeditions. The soft glow of magical lamps casts a gentle light over the room, highlighting the intricate details of the decor.
Lady Mirabelle, a woman of striking beauty and regal bearing, sits behind the desk. Her fingers, adorned with rings that catch the light, tap rhythmically on the polished wood as she waits. Her eyes, sharp and discerning, reflect a lifetime of adventure and curiosity.
The door to the study opens, and Yávië Ru steps inside. At 5’4”, Yávië's presence is both enchanting and commanding. Her swirling eyes, a mesmerizing blend of colors that seem to shift like liquid, immediately draw attention. They hint at her fey heritage and the magic that courses through her veins. Her long, auburn hair cascades down her back in loose waves, and her lithe form moves with an effortless grace. She wears a simple yet elegant outfit, suitable for both travel and adventure, with a hint of the carnival flair she grew up with.
"Ah, Yávië Ru," Lady Mirabelle says with a welcoming smile, gesturing to a plush chair opposite her desk. "Please, have a seat. I've heard much about your... talents. Your recent escapade with Orvis's feast was particularly impressive. It takes a unique blend of skill and audacity to pull off such a stunt."
Yávië grins mischievously as she takes her seat, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Thank you, Lady Mirabelle. I do try to keep things interesting."
Lady Mirabelle leans forward, her expression turning serious. "I believe I have a task that suits your particular set of skills. There is a relic in Everlund known as the Celestial Orb. It is said to possess incredible magical properties, and I want it retrieved. This task will require not only your stealth and cunning but also your ability to navigate through potentially dangerous situations."
She slides a map of Everlund across the desk, along with a small, ornate token. "This token will ensure the protection and credibility of the courier who will deliver the Celestial Orb back to me in Triboar. You will be richly rewarded with 500 gold pieces once the relic is in my possession."
Yávië examines the map and the token, her swirling eyes reflecting a mix of excitement and determination. "Consider it done, Lady Mirabelle. The Celestial Orb will be yours."
"Excellent," Lady Mirabelle replies, her smile returning. "I have no doubt you will succeed. Now, go and prepare for your journey. The road to Everlund is long and fraught with challenges, but I believe you are more than capable of overcoming them."
With the map and token in hand, Yávië rises from her seat, her mind already racing with plans and strategies. As she leaves the study, the setting sun casts a final, golden light over the room, signaling the beginning of a new adventure for the former carnival hand- turned-adventurer.
Before setting out on her journey to Everlund, Yávië Ru decides to prepare for any obstacles she might face, including locked doors and hidden compartments. With this in mind, she heads to the bustling market of Triboar to acquire a set of thieves' tools.
The market is filled with the sounds of merchants hawking their wares, and the chatter of townsfolk. Stalls and shops line the streets, offering everything from fresh produce to exotic goods from distant lands.
Yávië weaves through the crowd with ease, her swirling eyes scanning the stalls for the specific items she needs. She soon spots a small, unassuming shop tucked away in a corner, with a sign that reads "Borin's Fine Tools and Supplies."
Pushing open the door, Yávië steps inside to find a cluttered but well-organized shop. Tools of all kinds hang from the walls, and the counters are covered in various gadgets and supplies. Behind the counter stands, presumably Borin, a grizzled dwarf with a thick beard and a keen eye for business.
"Ah, welcome, welcome!" the dwarf says, his voice a gravelly rumble. "What can I do for you today?"
Yávië approaches the counter, a charming smile playing on her lips. "I'm in need of a set of thieves' tools. I hear you have the best in town."
He raises an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "Thieves' tools, eh? Not something I sell to just anyone. You planning on some... less than legal activities?"
Yávië chuckles softly, her swirling eyes glinting with mischief. "Let's just say I need to be prepared for any situation that might arise on my travels. You understand, don't you?"
The dwarf studies her for a moment, then nods. "Aye, I do. Follow me."
He leads Yávië to the back of the shop, where he unlocks a small cabinet and pulls out a neatly arranged set of thieves' tools. "These here are top quality. Lockpicks, files, small mirror, the works. They'll set you back 25 gold pieces."
Yávië appears to ponder the tools a moment, before shaking her head, “Not quite what I’m looking for, but thanks.”
Realizing she lacks the funds to purchase the thieves' tools, Yávië decides to return to Lady Mirabelle's estate to explain her situation and see if she can procure the necessary tools for the quest.
The sun is now low in the sky, casting a warm, golden hue over the estate as Yávië approaches. She makes her way back to Lady Mirabelle's study, where the noblewoman is still seated, engrossed in a book. Lady Mirabelle looks up as Yávië enters, her expression curious.
"Back so soon, Yávië?" Lady Mirabelle asks, setting her book aside.
Yávië offers a charming smile, her swirling eyes reflecting a hint of embarrassment. "Lady Mirabelle, I realized that in order to successfully retrieve the Celestial Orb, I will need a set of thieves' tools. Unfortunately, I find myself short of the necessary funds to purchase them. I thought it best to consult with you before proceeding."
Lady Mirabelle raises an eyebrow, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. "I see. It is indeed important to be well-prepared for such an undertaking. Thieves' tools are a reasonable request for a task of this nature."
She stands and moves to a nearby cabinet, opening it to reveal several drawers filled with various supplies. After a moment of searching, she retrieves a finely crafted set of thieves' tools and hands them to Yávië.
"Here you are. Consider these an advance on your reward. Use them wisely, and ensure that the Celestial Orb is returned to me safely."
Yávië accepts the tools with gratitude, her smile genuine. "Thank you, Lady Mirabelle. I will not let you down."
Lady Mirabelle nods, her eyes conveying a mix of trust and expectation. "I believe you won't. Now, go and make the necessary preparations, for a long journey awaits you."
And so, on the 1st of Mirtul, 1492, with the set of thieves' tools securely in her possession, Yávië left the estate once more, her confidence renewed. She stepped onto the road to Everlund, her mission clear. The night was cool, the wind cold, with a canopy of stars overhead, whispering secrets of the Feywild's beauty, guiding her steps into the unknown.
Yávië travels light, her gear carefully packed and secured. The road from Triboar to Everlund is known for its scenic landscapes but also for its potential dangers, from wild animals to bandits and remnants of ancient magic. Each step she takes is filled with anticipation and excitement for the adventure ahead.
2nd of Mirtul, 1492
Yávië navigates her way carefully and cautiously throughout the night. As the morning sun rises, casting a warm glow over the rolling hills and forests that line the road, Yávië moves with purpose, her swirling eyes constantly scanning her surroundings for any signs of danger or opportunity.
As she travels, she encounters a few friendly travelers and merchants who share tales of their journeys and offer advice about the road ahead. One particularly talkative merchant, a gnome named Finnwick, mentions a hidden grotto a day's journey ahead where rare and magical items are sometimes found.
Around midday, Yávië comes across a small caravan of travelers taking a rest by the side of the road. Among them is a roguish half-elf named Rylan, who is passing the time by playing a dice game with a few others. Intrigued, Yávië approaches, and Rylan, noticing her interest, invites her to join the game.
"Well hello there! Care to try your luck?" Rylan asks with a grin, shaking a set of worn dice in his hand. "The game's simple: highest roll wins the pot. Buy-ins 5 silver pieces."
With an Insight roll of 23, Yávië closely observes the game, paying attention to the body language and subtle cues of the players, especially Rylan. Her keen eyes catch every detail—the slight movements, the glances exchanged, and the way the dice are handled. She quickly determines that Rylan is playing honestly. His body language is relaxed and confident, and there are no signs of deception or trickery. The other players, too, seem to be enjoying the game genuinely, without any obvious attempts at cheating.
Unable to resist a good gamble she happily responds with “Why, yes… yes I would. A little gamble sounds thrilling even if I just walk away with a friendly exchange.”
Chapter 4 - Bonds and Blows
2nd of Mirtul, 1492
With the light of the enchanted rock still glowing softly in his pocket and the giant rat’s keen senses guiding them, Nimly and his loyal mount set off through the Whispering Woods to the south, making steady progress on an indirect route that gives the pair a chance to get used to their bond before encountering the bustle of other travelers. The forest around them is alive with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant animal calls. Nimly feels a sense of purpose and determination bolstered by the recent success of his quest and the presence of his new companion.
As they travel, Nimly remains vigilant, scanning the surroundings for any signs of danger or opportunity. The journey to Everlund may still hold challenges, but with his companion beneath him, Nimly is ready to face whatever lies ahead.
As Nimly rides through the Whispering Woods on his giant rat mount, he feels a deepening connection with the creature. Nimly realizes that the bond between them, strengthened by Grahl’s magic, might allow him to understand the rat on a more profound level. Curious about whether his mount has a name, Nimly decides to delve deeper into their bond to uncover it. He closes his eyes and focuses, attempting to connect with their thoughts and emotions. Nimly decides to use his innate magical abilities to aid in his task, drawing on his warlock powers to communicate with the creature. He rolls a 15 Arcana check.
Nimly feels a warm, subtle connection forming as he reaches out to the rat with his mind. Images and sensations begin to flow between them, painting a picture of the giant rat’s life and personality.
Nimly sees the rat as a small, ordinary rat, navigating through the dark, twisting tunnels of an underground burrow. He is surrounded by a larger family of other rats. He has always been a bit different - more curious, more daring.
One day, he ventured farther than ever before, down by a strange, otherworldly scent emanating from deep within the earth. The scent led him to a cavern filled with glowing crystals. Mesmerized by the light and energy, he touched one of the crystals with his twitching nose, and in an instant, everything changed.
His body grew larger and stronger, infused with the power of the crystals. The once ordinary rat became something extraordinary - a giant rat with a keen intellect and a mysterious connection with the earth. This transformation caught the attention of an earth elemental named Grahl, who saw potential in him as a loyal companion for their warlock servant.
Nimly’s vision shifts to the moment the rat first encounters Grahl, feeling the elemental’s presence and sensing a new purpose. Grahl bestowed upon the rat a name that resonated with the power and resilience of the earth. Thorn.
Nimly opens his eyes, the vision fading, but leaving behind a deep sense of connection and understanding.
Thorn twitches his whiskers in acknowledgment, his eyes glinting with a knowing light. Nimly feels a surge of warmth and camaraderie, knowing they are bound not just by Grahl’s will, but by mutual respect and every shared experience in store for them.
The air is filled with the sounds of rustling leaves, chirping birds, chittering squirrels, and the occasional distant howl of a wolf. As they travel, Nimly encounters a series of natural obstacles. Fallen trees, dense thickets, and rocky outcrops occasionally block their path. Nimly and Thorn navigate these carefully, using Nimly’s knowledge of the wilderness and Thorn’s natural agility to find the best routes. They roll Survival and get an average of 16.
Nimly expertly guides Thorn through the forest, finding the safest and quickest paths. They make good time, and the journey is smooth. Nimly even finds a small, bubbling stream where they can stop to rest and refill their water supplies.
Further into their journey, Nimly and Thorn come across a clearing where a group of deer are grazing. Among them is a majestic silver stag, its coat shimmering like moonlight. The stag looks directly at Nimly, and for a moment, there is a sense of understanding and connection. Nimly does a Perception check and rolls an 8.
Nimly is captivated by the beauty of the stag but he is unable to discern any deeper meaning from the encounter. Nevertheless, he feels a lingering sense of awe and inspiration as he continues on his way.
As the sun begins to set, casting long shadows through the Whispering Woods, Nimly decides it’s time to find a suitable spot to make camp for the night. His keen eyes scan the forest, seeking a place that offers both safety and comfort.
Nimly and Thorn come upon a natural alcove formed by a large, overhanging rock. The rock juts out from a small hillside, creating a sheltered area beneath it that is dry and protected from the elements. The ground is covered in a soft layer of moss and fallen leaves, providing a natural bedding that is both comforting and insulating.
Nearby, a cluster of tall, sturdy trees forms a protective barrier around the alcove, their thick trunks and dense foliage offering additional cover. A small, clear stream runs just a few feet away, its gentle babbling providing a soothing backdrop and a convenient source of freshwater. Nimly finds a variety of edible plants and berries, as well as some medicinal herbs that might come in handy.
The camp is soon a cozy and inviting haven. The fire crackles merrily, providing warmth and place to cook a simple meal. Nimly uses foraged herbs to brew a soothing tea, and he shares the fresh berries with Thorn, who nibbles contentedly on his portion. The stars begin to twinkle overhead, visible through the gaps in the tree canopy.
Nimly lays out his blanket roll and a few feet away, he raises his emerald arcane focus, glittering in the firelight, and begins to cast Mold Earth, scooping out a contoured depression in the earth. Clay rises from the ground below and forms a smooth and even layer. “Thorn, will that suit you?” He gestures to the makeshift bed.
Thorn sniffs the freshly molded clay bed, his whiskers twitching in curiosity. He steps onto the smooth surface, testing it with his paws. After a moment, Thorn settles down on the clay bed, curling up comfortably. He looks up at Nimly with a contented expression, his eyes gleaming with appreciation. Thorn gives a slight, approving chitter, indicating his satisfaction.
The night in the Whispering Woods is peaceful, the natural sounds of the forest creating a soothing backdrop. Nimly lies back, staring up at the stars twinkling through the gaps in the canopy, feeling a profound sense of connection to the world around him and the faithful companion at his side.
As sleep begins to overtake him, Nimly reflects on their journey so far and the adventures that await in Everlund. With Thorn resting comfortably and the camp secure, Nimly allows himself to drift off, confident and ready for whatever challenges the next day might bring.
3rd of Mirtul, 1492
As dawn breaks, the soft light of the rising sun filters through the dense canopy of the Whispering Woods, casting a golden glow over the camp. Nimly wakes refreshed, the fire reduced to glowing embers. Thorn, sensing his companion stirring, lifts his head and stretches, ready for the new day.
Nimly packs up their camp, ensuring everything is secure. He retrieves his enchanted rock, the soft light providing enough illumination to check their surroundings. After a quick breakfast, Nimly mounts Thorn, and they set off to the east, quickly making it to the main road between Silverymoon and Everlund.
The journey starts smoothly, the forest gradually thinning as they approach more open terrain. They see no travelers this early on the packed and pitted dirt road. Birds chirp overhead, and the morning air is crisp and cool.
As they travel on the road, Nimly fails a Perception check. His senses do pick up subtle signs of a disturbance ahead: broken branches off to one side of the road and an unusual silence among the wildlife. Realizing something is amiss, he slows Thorn and dismounts.
As his boots hit the ground, a group of rough-looking bandits spring from the underbrush, weapons drawn. Caught off guard, Nimly and Thorn are forced into an immediate confrontation.
The bandits, numbering three in total, encircle Nimly and Thorn. Their leader, a burly, scarred man, steps forward with a sneer. “Hand over your valuables, and we might let you pass unharmed.”
Nimly sighs and says, “"I've dealt with worse underground. Try me, and you'll regret it." He readies his weapons and rolls initiative.
—-
Round 1
With a menacing grin, Bandit 1 lunges forward, his scimitar gleaming in the dim light. The blade strikes Nimly, but his magical defenses absorb some of the blow, leaving the gnome with a mere scratch. Bandit 2, flanking from the right, seizes the moment to strike, his scimitar adding another wound to Nimly's growing tally.
The bandit leader, moving with practiced precision, closes in from the left and delivers a powerful slash, leaving Nimly gasping in pain as he absorbs a significant blow. "Oof!" Nimly squeaks, his small frame shuddering from the impact.
Thorn, sensing the dire situation, turns and sprints back the way they came, using his speed to create distance. Nimly, always quick on his feet, steps inside Bandit 2's reach, spins on his heel, and casts Rockslide. The very earth trembles beneath him, and he skates across the rocky ground, quickly catching up to Thorn sixty feet away. As Nimly hops onto Thorn, he glances back to see Bandit 2 knocked prone, though the other two remain on their feet.
Round 2
The bandits are momentarily disoriented by Nimly's unexpected maneuver, but they quickly realize their quarry is attempting to flee. Bandit 1 and the bandit leader charge forward, determined to close the gap, while Bandit 2 scrambles to his feet and joins the pursuit, still lagging behind due to the Rockslide.
Nimly, riding on Thorn's back, turns and fires an Eldritch Blast at Bandit 1, but the shot goes wide, missing its mark. Thorn, not wasting a moment, dashes another 45 feet away, putting more distance between them and their pursuers.
Round 3
Bandit 1, undeterred, pushes forward, closing the gap to 15 feet from Nimly and Thorn. Bandit 2 and the bandit leader also move closer, but they couldn't quite match Bandit 1's relentless pace. Nimly, seizing the opportunity, unleashes another eldritch blast. This time, the blast strikes true, slamming into Bandit 1 with a force that sends him sprawling to the ground, lifeless.
Thorn continues to retreat, carrying Nimly another 60 feet away, their enemies now a distant threat.
Round 4
The remaining bandits hesitate, glancing at their fallen comrade with uncertainty. They move to the side of the road, seeking cover behind a tree as they reconsider their approach. Nimly and Thorn, now 75 feet away, halt their retreat and circle back. Nimly raises his hand, green light swirling around his arm as he casts Shatter.
The spell erupts with a deafening crack, sending needles and debris showering down. The bandits are caught in the blast, their cries of pain silenced as they crumple to the ground, defeated. With all three bandits vanquished, Nimly and Thorn survey the road ahead, clear and safe for their journey onward.
—-
Nimly pats Thorn's side, a triumphant grin on his face. Nimly and Thorn approach the bodies with distaste and satisfaction. He searches the closest one for items and any sort of identification/insignia. When he’s done, he directs Thorn to drag the body off the road so they are out of sight to most travelers. He continues with the second and third corpses.
After searching the bandits, he finds:
3 scimitars
3 sets of leather armor
12 silver pieces
3 iron badges with a snarling wolf symbol (identification/insignia)
A small pouch with basic supplies
A crude map showing a nearby hideout
A half-eaten piece of bread
A basic healing potion (2d4 + 2 healing)
A locket with a faded picture inside
With the bandits dealt with and their bodies hidden, Nimly and Thorn are ready to continue their journey. They now have some additional resources and information, including a map to a possible bandit hideout.
Chapter 5: Friends and Foes
1st of Mirtul, 1492 DR
As Valeria walks, the trees are taller and thicker, adding a deep air of mystery. Their branches intertwine to create a canopy that almost blocks out the light entirely. The bioluminescent flora provide a faint, eerie glow, illuminating her path. The encounter with the wolves left her on edge, her senses on high alert for any further danger. She follows the tracks, leading her on a narrow, winding path that goes deeper into the heart of the forest. The air is cooler here, and the whispering of the trees grows louder.
The path twists and turns, leading Valeria through a series of natural arches formed by the intertwining branches and roots. The wind through the trees grows louder still, impossible to block out, almost as if they are shouting secrets of the forest at each other.
The air is cool and damp, filled with the scent of pine and earth. She occasionally glances at the map Mayor Shasta gave her, ensuring she stays on the right track.
After walking for some time, Valeria notices the path widening ahead. She emerges into a hidden glade, a place of serene beauty and powerful magic. The glade is surrounded by ancient trees, their leaves shimmering with an otherworldly light. In the center of the glade stands a large stone circle, covered in moss and ancient runes.
Standing within the stone circle is a druid, her appearance blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. She has long, flowing hair adorned with flowers and leaves, and her eyes shine with wisdom and mystery. "Welcome, traveler. I am Sylvara, guardian of this glade. You seek the Whispering Chalice, do you not?"
Valeria steps forward, speaking in a hushed tone, "Yes, I do. I was sent by the people of Colton to recover it and bring peace back to the forest." Her hand rests on the hilt of her longsword, signaling her complex response to this situation of power and serenity.
Sylvara nods, her expression thoughtful. "The Chalice is a powerful artifact, and it is not easily found. To prove your worth, you must pass a test of wisdom. Only then will I share with you the knowledge you seek."
Valeria stands taller. "I am ready. What must I do?"
The druid folds her hands in front of her. "Answer me this: In the heart of the forest, where shadows dance and spirits whisper, what is it that binds all living things together, from the tallest tree to the smallest creature?"
Valeria stands in the serene, mystical glade, contemplating Sylvara's question. The druid watches her closely, waiting for her response. The ancient trees around them seem to listen as well, their leaves dancing in the gentle breeze.
Valeria takes a deep breath, her mind racing through everything she knows about the forest and its secrets. She finally looks up at Sylvara, her expression thoughtful. "Is the answer... water? It sustains all life, from the tallest tree to the smallest creature."
Sylvara smiles, a look of approval in her eyes. "Water is indeed a powerful force of life, essential to the survival of all living things in this place. Your answer shows a deep understanding of nature’s unity and interdependence. You are wise, Valeria."
Sylvara gestures for Valeria to step closer to the stone circle. As the young woman approaches, the runes on the stones begin to glow softly.
"You have passed the test of wisdom. The path to the Whispering Chalice is still fraught with danger, but I will share with you the knowledge you seek. The Chalice lies deep within the forest, guarded by powerful spirits and ancient magic. Follow the path marked by these runes, and you will find it." The druid reaches into a pouch at her side and pulls out a small vial of shimmering liquid. "Take this as well. It is a potion of healing. May it aid you on your journey."
Valeria accepts the vial, her resolve strengthened by Sylvara's words and her gift. "Thank you, Sylvara. I will find the Chalice and bring peace back to the forest."
Sylvara nods, her expression serene. "Go with the blessings of the forest, Valeria. The spirits will watch over you."
Valeria takes a brief moment to rest and snack on a dry ration. The forest remains eerily quiet, the whispering leaves providing a constant background noise. She chews thoughtfully, her eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of danger. After finishing her quick meal, she ensures her shield is at the ready, prepared for whatever may come next. To the living forest, she speaks softly, "I need to stay vigilant. This forest holds many secrets, and I'm not alone out here."
As she travels deeper into the forest, Valeria notices subtle signs of recent activity—broken branches, disturbed foliage, and several scuffed spots resembling boot prints. Her instincts sharpen, knowing that danger could be lurking nearby.
Suddenly, a rustling sound catches her attention. Before she can react, a group of bandits emerges from the shadows, weapons drawn. They encircle her, their leader stepping forward with a sneer. "Well, well, what do we have here? A lone lass wandering through our territory. Hand over your valuables, and maybe we'll let you walk out of here.”
Valeria calmly unsheathes her sword, cracks her neck, and looking the speaker dead in the eyes says, “You have one chance to run away and change your lives. Otherwise, your choices end now!"
The bandits hesitate for a moment, glancing at each other and then back at the speaker. The speaker's scowl deepens, but there’s a flicker of doubt in his eyes. However, he seems determined not to lose face in front of his men. “Nice try, but we’re not scared of you. Get her!”
The bandits steel themselves, preparing to attack. Valeria readies her shield and sword.
Roll Initiative.
—-—-
Round 1
The first two bandits rush forward, their attacks swift but sloppy. Valeria dodges their blows with ease. She retaliates by swinging her sword, but she misses the agile bandit who pivots away. The third bandit moves up into the fray swinging at Valeria, his scimitar clanging harmlessly off her armor.
Round 2
Bandits 1 and 2 attack again, but their strikes are clumsy and miss their mark. "Ha ha!" Valeria shouts as she swings at bandit 3. Her sword bites deep, cutting a long slash into the bandit’s side. The bandit clutches at his abdomen, looks at Valeria in horror, and slumps to the ground, breathing no more. Valeria shouts, “I warned you bastards!"
Round 3
Bandit 2, angered by the fall of his comrade, attacks again but misses. As Bandit 1 lunges at Valeria with his weapon, he overextends himself in his eagerness to land a blow. Unfortunately for him, his foot catches on a hidden root, and he trips forward awkwardly. His weapon slips from his grasp and flies through the air, landing harmlessly in a nearby bush.
"I'm surprised you're so mad about your friend when you should be mad about me using your mom like a sock puppet last night!" Valeria casts Vicious Mockery, but Bandit 2 resists the spell.
Round 4
Bandit 1, after his critical failure, needs to retrieve his weapon before he can attack. He scrambles over to where his sword landed and uses his turn rooting around in the bushes until he is able to pull his sword free.
"Taste my steel!" Valeria swings her mighty sword one handed, dealing a heavy blow to Bandit 2.
Round 5
The bandits attack again, but their blows miss. Valeria lashes out at Bandit 2 with a flourish of her sword slashing along his neck and collar bone. Without a chance to respond, Bandit 2 falls to the ground lifeless.
Round 6
Bandit 1, desperate and angry, lunges at Valeria, but she parries it easily, the blow glancing away.
"I warned you. I urged you to change your ways. Your choice of violence has brought violence upon yourself. May you find a better path on the other side."
She strikes Bandit 1 with a powerful blow, and Bandit 1, already weakened, falls to the ground in a pool of his own blood.
—-—-
Valeria stands amidst the fallen bandits, her breathing steady as the forest returns to its eerie silence. She methodically searches the bodies, pocketing valuables, including a map. “Well, waste not, want not. Plus, if there's coin it'll go in a pouch at my…” she snickers, “waist.” Deciding to leave the corpses for scavengers, she continues on her way, following the glowing runes deeper into the forest.
As Valeria walks, she notices a soft, fluttering movement up ahead. Raising her shield slightly, she prepares for any potential threat. However, as she approaches, she realizes the source of the movement is a small, harmless creature. It is a tiny winged being resembling a butterfly or faerie. Its eyes sparkle with intelligence and curiosity.
The creature speaks in a melodic voice, "Greetings, traveler. Do not feel alarm, for I am Pippin and I mean you no harm."
Valeria smiles at the little creature. "I am on a quest, in fact! I seek a chalice of import. It is said that this chalice is connected to the spirits of these woods. We fear something is amiss, because the woods have been acting strangely. Odd beasts and unsettling phenomena. And recently, villagers have begun to go missing. We must restore the balance."
Pippin flits closer, her wings shimmering with iridescent colors. "A noble quest indeed. Follow the runes; they will lead you to the enchanted river, guarded by a water elemental. Show respect to the forest spirits, and they may aid you." The tiny fairy gives Valeria a warm smile. "May the blessings of the forest be upon you. Farewell, and good luck on your quest." With that, Pippin flutters away, disappearing into the foliage. Valeria watches the little creature fly away, feeling a boost of purpose and confidence.
With the knowledge from Pippin, Valeria continues to follow the path marked by the glowing runes. She remains vigilant, knowing that the enchanted river and its guardian await her. The path winds deeper into the forest, the bioluminescent flora casting an ethereal glow on her surroundings. The whispering of the leaves grows more harmonious, as if singing a song of encouragement.
After some time, Valeria hears the growing sound of rushing water ahead. The trees part slightly to reveal a beautiful, crystal-clear river flowing through the forest. The water glimmers with a magical light, and the air is cool and refreshing. As Valeria approaches the riverbank, she notices the water starting to swirl and ripple unnaturally. From the center of the river, a figure begins to emerge. A large water elemental takes shape, its form continuing to shift and flow like the river itself.
A voice, loud and authoritative fills Valeria’s mind, "Who dares to cross my river? State your purpose, traveler, and prove your worth!"
Chapter 6: Wagers and Worries
Date: 2nd of Mirtul, 1492
Yávië, eyes glinting with a mischievous sparkle, gracefully joined the travelers by the side of the road. The midday sun cast a warm glow over the scene, creating an air of lighthearted anticipation. With a smile, she placed her ante down, the clink of coins adding to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of birds.
Round 1: The dice danced across the makeshift table with a life of their own, tumbling and spinning before coming to a halt. Yávië watched intently, her breath held.
Results:
Yávië: 7
Rylan: 10
Traveler 1: 11
Traveler 2: 19
A murmur of excitement spread through the group as Traveler 2 triumphantly gathered the pot.
Round 2: Unperturbed, Yávië flashed a confident grin, her fey charm undeniable. She tossed another 5 silver onto the table, her movements fluid and captivating. With a dramatic flourish, she rolled the dice once more. They caught the sunlight for a moment, landing with a resounding clatter.
Results:
Yávië: 20
Rylan: 12
Traveler 1: 15
Traveler 2: 6
Gasps and cheers erupted as Yávië's 20 clinched the victory. She collected her winnings with a wink, the coins jingling merrily in her pouch.
Round 3: Determined to press her luck further, Yávië anteed up one last time. Her fingers caressed the dice as she cast them onto the table, her gaze unwavering. The dice rolled and came to rest, sealing her fate.
Results:
Yávië: 14
Rylan: 14
Traveler 1: 1
Traveler 2: 4
A tie with Rylan! The air grew thick with tension as the two prepared for a tiebreaker. The travelers leaned in, eager to witness the outcome.
Tiebreaker Round:
Yávië and Rylan rolled their dice once more, the clatter echoing through the warm midday air. Time seemed to slow as the dice settled.
Tie Round Results:
Yávië: 17
Rylan: 15
Yávië's lets out a triumphant laugh, having bested Rylan. The travelers cheered, and Yávië basked in the glory of her victory, her pouch significantly heavier and her spirit soaring with the thrill of the game.
After her victorious rounds of gambling, Yávië decides to pocket her 30 silver, and entertain her current companions with a little music. She pulls out her wooden pan flute, a cherished instrument from her carnival days.
Yávië gives a short bow, "That was a lot of fun, but I think I've had enough gambling for now. How about a little music to keep the good times going?"
The party nods enthusiastically, eager to witness her performance. Yávië begins to play a soft, enchanting melody on her pan flute. The gentle notes float through the air, creating a serene and magical atmosphere around the small camp. As she plays, the music attracts some of the local fauna. A few curious rabbits, squirrels, a large barn owl and a few birds gather around, drawn by the soothing sounds. The travelers are delighted by the unexpected audience, their smiles growing wider as they enjoy the performance.
After a short while, Yávië concludes with a final, lingering note. The travelers applaud warmly, expressing their appreciation. Rylan nods to her, "You've got quite the talent, Yávië. Both with dice and with music. This is a real treat."
Traveler 1 agrees, "That was beautiful! Thank you for sharing your music with us."
Traveler 2 nods in agreement, "And for bringing these little critters to keep us company!"
The sun is beginning to dip towards the horizon as Yávië prepares to continue her journey, leaving the party in high spirits, "Thank you for the kind words. It was a pleasure playing for you. Safe travels to you all." She packs away her flute, gathers her belongings, and with a final wave, and a bit more silver in her pouch, sets off once more on the road to Everlund.
She finds herself traveling through a dense forest that seems almost untouched by time. The road narrows into a well trodden path, winding through the ancient trees that tower above her.
Rich with life, the majestic oaks and maples intermingle with slender birch and pine trees. Ferns and wildflowers cover the ground, adding splashes of color to the green underbrush. Moss and lichen cling to the trunks of the trees and the stones scattered along the path. The sounds of nature are loud all around. Birds chirp and sing from their perches high in the trees, while squirrels scamper along the branches. Occasionally, a deer can be seen grazing in a clearing, and the rustle of leaves hints at other small creatures moving about in the undergrowth. She feels a deep connection to the natural world here, a reminder of her fey heritage and the magic that flows through her veins.
Yávië crosses a small, clear stream that winds its way through the forest. The water babbles happily over smooth stones, and she stops for a moment to refill her waterskin and enjoy the refreshing coolness. She scans the water for any creatures that might make a good snack for later. The stream is teeming with life, and she spots several small fish darting about, their scales glinting in the sunlight. She also notices a few crayfish hiding among the rocks and plants along the streambed. Yávië carefully scoops up a couple of the small fish and a crayfish, placing them in a small container she carries in her pack. The cool water keeps them fresh, and she knows they will make for a delightful meal when she stops to camp later.
As she continues to examine the stream, Yávië looks for anything shiny or valuable that might be hidden among the pebbles and rocks. The sunlight creates sparkling patterns on the water's surface, making it a bit challenging to see clearly. However, with a bit of patience, she spots a few glimmers among the stones. On closer inspection, Yávië finds a small, smooth pebble that shines with an unusual luster. It doesn’t appear particularly valuable, but its unique appearance intrigues her. She decides to keep it as a token of her journey, a small memento of the peaceful forest stream.
Looking about, she notices a massive, ancient oak standing by the side of the path, its gnarled roots spreading out like the fingers of an old giant. Yávië senses a faint magical aura emanating from the tree, suggesting it may be a remnant of older, more enchanted times. With a practiced eye, Yávië examines the ancient tree, noting the way its roots twist and turn, and the way its branches reach skyward. The tree is incredibly old, likely several centuries, if not millennia, and it exudes a sense of timeless wisdom and ancient magic. As she studies the tree, Yávië feels a connection to the Feywild. The magic she senses is of a natural, druidic nature, likely tied to the ancient spirits of the forest. It is a type of magic that seeks to protect and nurture the natural world, a remnant of the powerful enchantments cast by druids or fey creatures long ago. The tree itself may have been a guardian or a focal point of these enchantments.
Yávië notices faint carvings on the bark of the tree. These carvings are intricate and delicate, depicting scenes of nature and symbols of protection. They are worn with age but still hold a subtle glow, indicating their magical origin. Placing her hand on the trunk, Yávië feels a gentle pulse of energy, as if the tree is alive and aware of her presence. The magic is calming and protective, a testament to the harmony between the tree and the forest around it. Feeling a sense of reverence and awe, Yávië takes a moment to meditate by the tree, allowing its ancient magic to fill her with a sense of calm and purpose. She knows that this connection to nature and magic is a part of who she is, and it strengthens her resolve for the journey ahead.
Satisfied with her investigation and feeling more attuned to the natural world, Yávië stands up, ready to continue. She carries the weight of the ancient tree’s wisdom and magic as she ventures deeper into the forest, ever closer to her destination and the adventures that await.
Deeper into the dense thicket of forest, she hears the unmistakable sounds of a struggle up ahead. The clash of metal, shouts of fear, and the growls of a wild animal echo through the trees. Her heart quickens, and she moves swiftly towards the source of the commotion. Pushing through the underbrush, Yávië emerges into a small clearing and sees a young girl being attacked by a large, aggressive dire wolf. The girl, no more than twelve years old, holds a small dagger, trying to fend off the snarling beast, but it's clear she's no match for the creature's strength and ferocity.
Yávië springs into action as she sees the young girl being attacked by the dire wolf. She casts Sanctuary on the girl as a bonus action to protect her and then Guidance on herself to bolster her abilities. Yávië raises her arms, her swirling eyes filled with determination, and lets out a deafening roar, "LEAVE NOW, BEAST! GO AWAY! RUN!" Her voice, amplified by the spell, echoes through the forest, startling birds from their perches and causing the trees to tremble.
The dire wolf, already confused by the Sanctuary spell, is now faced with an overwhelming, booming voice and a figure waving its arms menacingly. The combination of the magical and physical display proves too much for the beast. With a frightened yelp, the dire wolf turns tail and flees back into the forest, disappearing into the underbrush. With the dire wolf driven away, Yávië quickly moves to the young girl's side, ensuring she is unharmed. "Are you alright? You're safe now."
The young girl nods, obviously shaken. "Yes, thank you! I was so scared. Thank you for saving me."
Yávië smiles and beckons to her, "How far are you from home? It’s getting kind of late. Would you like company on the way back?"
The girl nods, her eyes filled with gratitude. “I live just a bit further down this path, in a small village. I was out gathering herbs for my family when … the wolf attacked. I would really appreciate your company."
Yávië smiles warmly, gently placing a reassuring hand on the girl's shoulder. "Of course. Let’s get you home safe."
As they walk together, the forest begins to take on a tranquil, evening glow. Yávië remains vigilant, her senses alert for any further danger, but the journey remains peaceful. The young girl starts to relax and she opens up a bit, sharing stories about her family and life in the village. Yávië listens attentively, offering kind words and occasionally sharing a light-hearted story from her own adventures in the carnival.
After about half an hour of walking, they reach the outskirts of a small, quaint village nestled within the forest. The sight of familiar surroundings brings a visible sense of relief to the young girl. She looks up at Yávië , "Here we are. Thank you so much for everything." As they approach the girl’s home, a small cottage with a well-tended garden, her parents rush out, worry etched on their faces. They embrace their daughter tightly, their relief palpable. The girl’s mother looks her over from head to toe," Melanie! Oh, thank the gods you're safe! We were so worried."
Melanie quickly explains what happened and how Yávië saved her from the dire wolf. Her parents turn to Yávië, their eyes filled with gratitude. The father offers Yávië a hand in greeting, "We cannot thank you enough for bringing our daughter back safely. Please, come inside. Stay for dinner and rest. It's the least we can do."
Chapter 7 - Listening & Leather
3rd of Mirtul, 1492
Nimly and Thorn, now having dealt with the bandits and gathered useful items, resume their journey towards Everlund. With the road ahead clear, they travel through the Whispering Woods, making steady progress towards the city.
As they travel, the dense forest begins to thin, and the path becomes more well-trodden. The sounds of the forest envelop them, with birds chirping and leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. The sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground.
The sound of approaching voices and the creaking of wagon wheels reaches their ears. As they crest a rise, they begin to overtake a diverse group of travelers headed in the same direction.
A family in a wagon includes a burly man with a friendly face who is driving. Beside him sits a kind-looking woman cradling a baby, while two young children peek out from the back of the wagon, their eyes wide with curiosity. Riding alongside on horseback are two merchants. The first is a jovial man with a bushy beard and a wide-brimmed hat, laughing heartily as he rides. The second is a slender woman with sharp eyes, dressed in practical clothing that speaks of many journeys. Flanking the group are two guards, a sturdy man with a sword at his hip and a woman with a spear, both maintaining a vigilant watch over their surroundings.
As Nimly and Thorn approach, the travelers hail them warmly. The burly man driving the wagon calls out with a welcoming tone, "Greetings, traveler! Heading to Everlund, are you? Care to join us for a bit? Safety in numbers!"
Nimly meets their kindness with a grin. “Hello, good folk! We will happily join you. My name is Nimly and this is Thorn, and we are indeed heading to Everlund. Having company along the way will be quite nice.”
The merchant with the bushy beard chimes in, "If you're in need of supplies, we've got some extra provisions we can trade. Always happy to help a fellow traveler."
Nimly gestures to a bundle lashed beside him, where he has the three sets of leather armor, three scimitars, and a small pouch of basic supplies. “I do have a few goods that may catch your eye. I’m happy to accept coins, rations, or other valuables." Before presenting the items, Nimly removes a small carved bird and a miniature whistle from the pouch, tossing them to the children. "The world is full of wonder. Be ready for it and you will go far," he says with a warm smile.
The children's faces light up with joy as they catch the trinkets, their parents showing surprise and appreciation. The father laughs, saying, "Thank you, Nimly. Those are lovely gifts. Our children will treasure them."
The sharp eyed woman takes a keen interest in Nimly's wares. "Ah, good quality leather armor and scimitars. Always in demand, especially with the increased bandit activity. Let's see what we have to trade.” She opens a saddlebag on her mount and brings out several leather bags and tosses one to Nimly for him to peruse. "We can offer you some rations and a bit of coin in exchange.
Nimly opens the bag, finding some excellent dried meat. He catches a second bag tossed from horseback and finds several wedges of hard cheese inside. “This will do!” Nimly and the merchants barter back and forth, arriving at an agreed exchange. For his three sets of leather armor, three scimitars, and a small pouch of basic supplies, Nimly receives five days' worth of rations, including dried meat, dried fruit, hardtack, cheese, and nuts and seeds, along with ten gold pieces.
The bearded merchant beams, "Pleasure doing business with you, Nimly. These goods will sell quickly in Everlund. The shops have been short on supplies of all kinds lately. The bandits…” His exuberant demeanor falters a bit.
Nimly takes the opening and asks more on this. “You did mention increased bandit activity. Is it worse than the usual assortment of a few scattered brigands?”
The woman answers, with a look to her trading partner. "Yes. It’s much worse than usual. Ask such questions cautiously. Safe travels to you and Thorn." The woman engages the man in a hushed conversation after that and Thorn falls back from the two, giving them space. With the trade completed, Nimly ponders the exchange. He has been to Everlund several times before on brief stays, and this notable level of bandit activity is news to him.
The added companionship of the caravan takes on a new light, and while he does not see any more threats as they travel towards Everlund, he remains watchful. Safety in numbers and having what were certainly guards along might have scared away unseen watchers already. He throws back his own cloak, making the well-used leather armor on his torso easily seen. The dangers of this day will pass and you will sleep soundly at the end of it. It was a saying of his Grandma Mossberry, who had done her best to impart confidence and caution in equal measure. Nimly missed her very much, and always would. The guards remain vigilant and visible, ensuring the safety of everyone. The path gradually becomes more traveled as they get closer to Everlund.
Lost in thought, Nimly continues to ride Thorn. The laughter of the children brings his gaze around, to see them playing a game where the carved bird reacts to the whistle. Nimly casts Silent Image and an orange cat jumps up from behind Thorn to perch on Nimly’s shoulder. After a few minutes there, the cat jumps across to the wagon, landing without trouble on the moving cart. The cat sits, tail swishing, and watches the carved bird.
The children’s eyes widen in awe as the illusionary cat gracefully leaps onto their wagon. "Look, look! A magical kitty!" one of them exclaims, their excitement bubbling over. They reach out tentative hands, expecting the cat to vanish upon touch, but the illusion holds firm just out of reach, maintaining its ethereal presence.
The parents exchange amused and appreciative glances with Nimly, their smiles broadening as they see the joy in their children’s faces. "It’s so pretty!" the younger child squeals, giggling as the cat swishes its tail and flicks its ears as if it were truly alive.
The illusionary cat, appearing as real as the carved bird and whistle, adds an enchanting element to their journey. The children, now fully engrossed in their imaginative play, create stories about the magical cat and its adventures. Nimly watches with a fond smile, glad to bring such delight to the young ones and to forge a small but meaningful connection with the traveling family.
Thorn moves closer to the wagon and Nimly strikes up a conversation with the children’s mother. “The uncertainty caused by the lawlessness cannot dim those bright spirits. It must be quite hard to bring them along, or to leave them behind.” The woman stares at Nimly to gauge the direction of his comments. They pass a minute in silence as the children play and she considers how to answer.
“How far away are your parents, Nimly?”, she asks.
Nimly looks at the kids before he answers and softens it for their sake. “I don’t know. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen either of them. The lawlessness in my own upbringing wasn’t much of a factor inside the main cavern of Glimmerstone, but there was no expectation like that outside the city. If a childhood has an expectation of safety, it must come from a society that promotes it or perhaps parents that create the illusion of it. I meant no judgment towards you in that… you have hard choices to make.”
The mother smiles at this and nods. “A casual conversation about dire choices? That has flair, if not the comfort of predictability. Glimmerstone sounds nice, though I doubt I could see it in the same way you do.” She puts both hands over her eyes to mimic blindness and giggles. “Have you been on the surface for long, Nimly? My name is Corasa and my husband is Eilgri. Your kindness towards our children is no small thing.”
“There are ways to see it, if you choose to seek that out.” The illusionary cat takes one final grand leap at the carved bird, missing it widely and poofing into a shower of colored sparks. Nimly pulls out the rock from his pouch and it begins to glow with an inner Light. “It’s not an easy path, though. Most everything in the Underdark is bloodthirsty or so cautious and untrusting that it comes to the same thing.”
After traveling most of the day, the group finally sees the walls of Everlund in the distance. The city's silhouette against the setting sun promises safety, opportunities, and new adventures. The high stone walls surround the city except where the River Rauvin flows in from the east and out through the west side, continuing into the Whispering Wood before it turns north towards Silverymoon.
Nimly gives a farewell to those in the caravan and takes his leave, as he and Thorn pull ahead from the group and enter the Silverymoon Gate of Everlund. Houses and shops are visible from the wide avenue that leads into the heart of the city. The Hall of the Moon is directly in view several blocks up, built in a graceful, flowing architectural style, with curves and arches that mimic the phases of the moon. A large, silvered dome tops the temple, symbolizing the full moon. The dome is adorned with intricate carvings of moon phases and celestial motifs.
Nimly gets directions for a likely place to get some barding for Thorn and hears about a shop called Ironclad Creations on the east edge of the Bell Market. He and Thorn navigate the bustling streets of Everlund, making their way towards the described location. The city is alive with activity, with merchants hawking their wares, artisans displaying their crafts, and townsfolk going about their daily routines. The scent of freshly baked bread mingles with the sound of haggling, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. As they meander their way through the market, the sign for the shop comes into view.
Nimly hops off Thorn and walks into Ironclad Creations, mentally instructing Thorn to enter the shop and chill near the doorway. “Hail, good lady! Could you accommodate a fearsome giant rat seeking protection from cold steel and hot tempers? Thorn is his name, and I am Nimly. We are in the market for a set of barding made to his particular frame.”
The blacksmith chuckles warmly and steps out from behind the counter, walking over to where Thorn is patiently waiting near the entrance. She examines the giant rat with a practiced eye, nodding thoughtfully. "A fine creature indeed. I’m Hilda, by the way. I've crafted armor for many types of mounts and pets, but a giant rat is a first for me. Still, I relish a challenge. Let's see what we can do for Thorn here."
She gestures for Nimly and Thorn to follow her to a workbench at the back of the shop, where various tools and materials are neatly arranged. She takes out a tape and begins taking Thorn's measurements, making notes as she goes. Nimly watches with interest. Thorn strikes a combat pose and enjoys the attention.
Hilda sets the notebook aside. “I need to ensure the armor is both protective and flexible, so Thorn can move naturally. I can craft something from reinforced leather, which should provide good protection without being too heavy. If you prefer metal armor, it will offer more protection but may restrict his movement a bit more. Are there any special requests or modifications to the armor that you are interested in? This being a giant rat, of which I’ve never outfitted before, I am quite interested in creating something quite spectacular.”
Nimly watches as Hilda does her work, communicating with Thorn through mental impressions, hearing the rat’s preference for lightweight armor, valuing agility and speed over heavy protection. The image of moving swiftly through obstacles and dodging attacks flashes through Nimly’s mind, and of prowling with skill and silence through a darkened forest.
She continues, “Should you like the leather option, it will take me two weeks to craft it, supplies being more erratically come by, lately. It will cost 50 gold. The supplies for the metal armor are well enough in stock and I could begin immediately. That will take about 5 days to craft and cost 100 gold. Of course, the more customizations, the more time to create it and the cost may go beyond the previous estimates.” Hilda finishes this last part in a rote way of talking, eyes getting far off for a moment.
Nimly nods at the rat that is still standing at attention, preening and imagining his new gear already in place. The gnome looks back up at Hilda, saying “We would like to purchase a studded leather armor option if that is possible, and the time it takes is well worth it. How does this sound: 50 gold now and 150 gold paid upon completion?”
Hilda listens to Nimly's request and nods thoughtfully. "Studded leather armor, you say? I can certainly craft that for Thorn. Studded leather will provide better protection than regular leather while still being relatively flexible. Two weeks, give or take a few days, will be the crafting time. Your offer is generous. I can agree to 50 gold pieces now and the remaining 150 gold pieces upon completion. I will get started on this right away."
Nimly hands over the bag of 50 gold. “If you do need to reach me, word can be sent to the Gemcutter’s Guild. We cannot wait to see what you create!” Hilda stands up from more quick scribbling and hands Nimly a purchase order with a description of the gear, the cost, and the estimated completion date.
Purchases concluded, Nimly and Thorn leave the shop and look to the southwest, across the city, where on the bank of the River Rauvin sits the Gemcutter’s Guild of Everlund. They walk through the quiet Bell Market as the light of the sun dims into twilight, taking the time to reflect on their long day sprinkled with violence and peace.
Chapter 8 - Trials of Valor
1st of Mirtul, 1492 DR
Valeria observes the water elemental closely, attempting to discern its demeanor and what might positively influence it. Using her keen senses, she gathers several impressions. The elemental seems likely to respond favorably to someone who respects the natural world and its spirits. It appears to be a guardian, so it will most likely appreciate honesty and a noble purpose. Elementals often respect strength and determination, qualities that demonstrate one’s worthiness.
Armed with these insights, Valeria straightens her shoulders and prepares to address the elemental. "Well, you are quite the magnificent being, now aren't you!? I'm mesmerized by your flows and whirls! But I do ramble so... Great Water Spirit, I seek a legendary chalice so that we might restore the balance to these woods. Strange beasts have been spotted about, and unusual occurrences have been happening. And most recently, our villagers have been disappearing. My path leads across this mighty river, and I beg your leave to continue my journey."
The water elemental's form shimmers and shifts, exuding both power and serenity. It seems to understand and contemplate Valeria's words carefully before responding. A voice fills Valeria’s consciousness, reminiscent of water swirling over rocks at the base of a crashing waterfall, "Your words are sincere, and your purpose is noble. The balance of the forest is indeed threatened, and the Whispering Chalice holds the key to its restoration. I will allow you to cross, but first, you must prove your resolve." The elemental gestures towards the river, and a series of stepping stones rise from the water, leading to the opposite bank. "These stones will guide your path, but beware—the river's currents are strong, and the journey will test your balance and determination. Should you falter, the waters will sweep you away. Show me your worth, brave warrior."
Valeria nods, understanding the challenge before her. The stepping stones seem to pulse with a gentle glow, inviting her to take the first step. With a single bead of sweat on her brow, Valeria steps confidently onto the first stone, maintaining her balance with ease as the water swirls around her. The stone is steady beneath her feet, and she prepares to move to the next one.
As Valeria steps onto the second stone, her foot slips on the wet surface. The strong currents pull at her, causing her to wobble dangerously. She manages to catch herself just in time, her heavy armor pulling at her balance. Valeria straightens, and steps onto the third stone with more confidence. The stone holds firm beneath her feet, and she feels a surge of determination.
With a deep breath and a well balanced posture, Valeria leaps onto the fourth stone, her movements fluid and sure. The water roars around her, but she stands firm, unwavering in her resolve. She can feel the river's power beneath her feet, but she meets it with her own strength and grace. The elemental watches, its form appearing to ripple with approval. Valeria grins, "Hah! This river won't best me!"
As Valeria makes her move onto the fifth stone, her foot slips once more. The water's powerful currents tug at her, and she struggles to maintain her balance. Her arms windmill wildly, and she barely manages to steady herself. Sweat once again beading on her brow, Valeria makes the final leap from the last stone. Her movements are swift and precise, and she lands solidly on the opposite bank. The river's current roars behind her, but she stands triumphant and unshaken. "Hah! Made it!"
Overcome with a surge of triumph and joy, Valeria can't help but break into a celebratory dance. She spins and twirls, her armor clinking rhythmically as she moves. The sheer exhilaration of overcoming the challenge fills her with a contagious energy. "Yes! Huzzah! Take that, mighty river! Nothing can stop me!" She finishes her impromptu dance with a flourish, raising her sword high in the air.
The water elemental, witnessing her exuberant display, nods in approval. Its form shimmers with a soft, radiant glow. Once more, that watery voice pushes inside Valeria’s mind, "You have proven your worth, brave warrior. May your journey be blessed, and may you find the Whispering Chalice to help restore balance to these woods."
Valeria sheathes her sword, nodding toward the elemental, "Onwards then. There's a chalice to retrieve!" As Valeria continues along the path, the forest grows quieter and more daunting. The light filtering through the canopy takes on an otherworldly quality, casting eerie shadows on the ground. Suddenly, a chill runs down her spine, and the air grows colder. Out of the mist, a ghostly figure begins to materialize.
It is the specter of a fallen hero, his armor tattered and his face etched with the sorrow of a lost quest. His eyes, though indistinct, hold a deep wisdom tinged with sadness. "Greetings, brave warrior. I am the spirit of Sir Alden, a knight who once sought the Whispering Chalice, just as you do now. I failed the trials and paid the ultimate price, but my spirit lingers to guide those who follow this path." The ghostly figure stands with the remnants of his hands clasped in front of him, waiting for her response.
Valeria raises her gauntlet in greeting, "Well met, Sir Alden. I am Valeria of Colton. My condolences on your current condition. I pray to the gods your spirit will be released once the Whispering Chalice is retrieved and the balance is restored. What can you tell me of the trials ahead, so that I can better prepare for what's to come?"
Sir Alden's spectral form flickers slightly as he nods, a look of gratitude in his eyes. "Thank you, Valeria. Your compassion and determination are commendable. The path ahead is fraught with perilous tests that will challenge both your mind and body. The next trial you will face is the enchanted grove, where your wisdom and respect for nature will be tested. Show reverence to the spirits and use your wits to navigate the challenge. I cannot tell you anything past that, as I did not conquer it."
The specter pauses, his form shimmering with a soft light. "Heed my words, Valeria. The forest is alive and watches your every move. Show it respect, and it may aid you in ways you do not expect. My failure was not in strength or courage, but in understanding the true nature of these trials." As the ghostly specter begins to fade, his form dissipating into the mist, he gives Valeria a wry smile. "And for the love of all that's holy, I hope you're not doomed to join me on this damned forest path. One dead hero is enough!"
Valeria feels a renewed sense of determination, bolstered by the advice and dark humor of the fallen hero. She sets her shoulders and continues down the path, ready to face the trial of the enchanted grove. The forest becomes denser and the air thicker with magic. The glowing runes on the path grow brighter, leading her towards a place of ancient power and mystery. The whispering leaves and the rustling of unseen creatures create an eerie yet invigorating atmosphere.
The light filtering through the canopy takes on a greenish hue, as Valeria finally reaches the edge of the enchanted grove. The grove is a circular clearing surrounded by towering trees that seem to reach for the sky. In the center of the clearing stands a stone altar, covered in intricate carvings of nature spirits and ancient symbols. The air is filled with the scent of blossoming flowers and the soft hum of magic. The ground around the altar is carpeted with vibrant green moss, and small, glowing orbs of light float gently through the air. The atmosphere is serene but charged with a sense of anticipation, as if the very grove itself is aware of Valeria's presence.
As the knight steps closer, she notices several ghostly figures milling around the grove. These spectral adventurers, clad in the tattered remnants of their gear, walk to and fro stuck in the grove, taking no note of Valeria. She believes that this place holds the final trial in her quest for the Whispering Chalice. She takes a moment to address them, her voice filled with determination and compassion. "My brothers and my sisters, I will do all I can to free you from your aimless questing. Know that I shall do my best, and my best is no small thing."
With a deep breath, she steps into the grove, ready to face whatever challenge awaits her. The ethereal glow of the bioluminescent flowers and floating orbs of light guide her path. As Valeria reaches the altar, the air around her hums. The carvings on the stone surface begin to glow, and a soft, melodic voice echoes through the grove. "Welcome, brave warrior. Proceed and be tested. Prove your worth to the forest or be held here forever in bondage."
The glowing carvings shift and change, forming a series of intricate symbols and patterns. Valeria realizes that she must solve a puzzle to prove her worth. The puzzle appears to consist of arranging the symbols in the correct order to complete the pattern on the altar. The symbols represent different elements of nature: earth, water, fire, and air. Valeria must use her knowledge and intuition to determine the correct sequence. As Valeria gets close to study the altar, she feels a piercing pain in her head. Her vision goes black. As her vision clears, she realizes that she is once again walking into the grove.
The grove still appears the same, the ghostly figures still mill about, but with one major difference. Valeria can see the altar in the middle of the grove, and now, upon it sits a chalice. Nothing else is amiss, and nothing now appears to be between her and the chalice. From where she is standing it is hard to tell what exactly is on the pedestal, but it looks like there may be something like an infinity knot on the chalice.
Valera moves away from the chalice to talk to the ghostly figures, as she does, she once again gets a piercing pain in her skull. Her vision goes dark and she finds herself at the edge of the glade once more. Again ... the scene is exactly the same - except where the chalice was upon the altar - there is now a figurine of a stag.
Valeria approaches the ghostly figures and asks them the same question she attempted to ask before. "Excuse me, are any of you able to offer assistance, guidance, or maybe even a hint?"
The ghostly knight looks at Valeria with an absent expression on his face, "We have waited long for someone like you, brave warrior. Many have come and failed, trapped in this eternal loop. The challenge you face is not just physical but also a test of understanding and perception. I wish I had prayed to my god for guidance when I still had the chance.”
The other specters remain silent. The stag on the pedestal awaits her.
Valeria approaches the altar slowly, looking at every detail. The stone figure slowly turns its head to look at her as she approaches. The stag's movements suggest it is not merely a statue but a sentient being or a manifestation of the forest's spirit. The form shimmers and says, "What do you seek, Knight?"
Valeria shakes her head to clear it, and answers, "I seek to restore the balance of the forest by finding the Whispering Chalice. This is my quest. But first I must pass these trials."
The figurine of the stag appears to grow slightly. "Truth or Lies?"
Valeria quickly answers. "Truth. I have no need for lies."
The image grows a bit more - and the color begins to change from stone to white. "Balance or Corruption?"
Valeria answers a bit more slowly, yet firmly, "Balance, for I already seek to restore it. I will fight corruption by any means necessary!"
The image grows more - and it changes from stone to flesh, with fur growing where smoothness once was. "Fear or Hate?"
Valeria ponders this question, taking her time, "These are two terrible choices. I would much prefer to choose love or care. But of your two evil choices I feel fear is the better choice. For in conquering fear one becomes courageous."
The image of the Silver Stag grows and solidifies fully formed. "Your answers are correct. Your heart is pure and your intentions are clear." From the center of its antlers, power flows. A chalice appears - the horns dip towards her, indicating that she should take it.
Valeria hesitates. "Before I take this, I have a question. Once I take this, will all the trapped spirits be set free? I feel for their plight and wish that they should be freed, for I have completed what they strove for."
The stag regards her. "The spirits will be free once you accept your destiny." Once again a piercing pain splits her skull. With her eyes closed, a vision appears.
It is that of the stag. Though its form is different. It is twisted - seething with unnatural energy. The scene changes. It is shackled - barely able to breath - the very earth around it rotting. The scene changes. The stag is free - the world is verdant and wild, with harmony evident in the vast interdependent web of nature. The scene changes again and there is war, death, the stag is stabbed and is bleeding out.
Valeria’s eyes open and the stag continues speaking. "Discord festers in the hearts of many. You are the chosen one. Blessed with strength and courage to bring peace to the world. You have seen many different paths that could happen. Soon, in Everlund a hunt will begin for a Silver Stag. It needs your protection from those who seek to harm it. Accept this quest, drink from the Chalice, and the spirits will be free."
Valeria reaches out and takes the chalice. "I accept this quest. I will protect the stag with my life, if needed." She takes a drink without looking or smelling what it might be. Faith in her destiny guides her.
"I will send you to those who may be able to aid you." With that, the stag bows. Once again a piercing pain shoots behind Valeria’s eyes. She falls to her knees, the chalice clutched tightly. She feels a WHOOSH of air and hears a very loud CRACK. Then her ass aches as it lands HARD on a desk in the middle of what looks like an interrogation. She sees a pacing gnome, a giant rat sitting by the door, a swirly eyed woman that appears to be highly annoyed, and a bedraggled angry scared human seated behind a desk. Valeria looks around in an attempt to make sense of where she is and notices a memo next to her elbow, addressed to a Corporal Thorne and dated the 16th of Mirtul.
16th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
Chapter 9 - Feywild Magic
2nd of Mirtul, 1492
Yávië graciously accepts Melanie's father’s offer, "Thank you. I would be honored to join you for dinner and rest here tonight."
The family beckons Yávië into their cozy cottage. The scent of freshly baked bread and herbs fills the air. Melanie’s mother prepares a hearty meal, and the family gathers around the table, sharing stories and laughter. Yávië enjoys the company, feeling a sense of camaraderie and warmth.
After dinner, they sit by the fireplace, exchanging tales of their lives. Melanie, now more relaxed, shows Yávië some of the herbs she collected and talks about their uses. Yávië, in turn, shares some of her own knowledge and experiences from her travels and life in the Feywild. The hour begins to grow late, and Yávië can sense the family is close to turning in for the night. "Thank you for the wonderful evening. I’ll stay up a bit longer to meditate. Have a good night’s rest."
Melanie’s mother nods, “Thank you again for what you did today.” She looks protectively at Melanie, “Without you, we would most likely be in mourning this night.” With pleasantries aside, the family heads to bed, leaving Yávië by the flickering firelight. She finds a comfortable spot and enters her meditative trance, drawing strength and calm from the serene environment.
3rd of Mirtul, 1492
Yávië awakens before dawn, feeling refreshed and alert. She quietly steps outside, taking in the crisp morning air. The forest is still and peaceful, with only the faint sounds of waking birds. She sets off into the nearby woods, her sharp eyes scanning for signs of nests. It doesn’t take long for her to find a few nests with eggs. She carefully collects some without disturbing the birds.
Returning to the stream where she had found the fish, Yávië uses her survival skills to clean them. She gathers some wild herbs and returns to the cottage. Back in the kitchen, Yávië quietly begins the task of preparing a simple yet delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs and fish. The aroma fills the air, gradually waking the family from their slumber. As the first rays of sunlight begin to pierce through the windows, they emerge from their rooms, surprised and delighted to find Yávië cooking.
Melanie’s mother gasps, "You’re up early! And you’ve made breakfast for us. Thank you so much." They all sit down to enjoy the meal together. The family is deeply appreciative of Yávië's kindness and the delicious breakfast. Melanie’s father voices his appreciation through a mouthful of food, “This is wonderful. Thank you for everything you’ve done for us."
Yávië smiles, "It was my pleasure. Thank you for your hospitality." After breakfast, Yávië gathers her belongings and prepares to continue her journey. "I must be on my way now. The road ahead of me is long."
The family bids her farewell, wishing her safe travels. With the sun now fully risen, Yávië sets off once more, her heart light and her spirit rejuvenated by the kindness of the family.
Later that morning, Yávië’s path continues on, winding in and out of the forest; she begins to feel a familiar, tingling sensation in the air. The forest around her seems to grow more vibrant, and she notices the familiar feeling of Feywild magic. Her keen senses pick up on subtle changes—the colors are more vivid, the sounds more musical, and the very air seems charged with energy. Following her instincts, Yávië diverges slightly from the main path, drawn by the increasing sense of magic. She soon finds herself standing before a hidden glade, a small clearing surrounded by ancient, towering trees. In the center of the glade stands a tangle of twisting vines, covered in moss and faintly glowing with a soft, glimmering light.
Yávië identifies the type of magic emitted by the vines. She recognizes it as ancient druidic energy, likely placed here by powerful creatures to create a safe passage between the Feywild and the Material Plane. The magic is strong and stable, indicating that the path has been used many times over the centuries. Yávië understands the basics of how to activate the Feywild path. While she doesn’t grasp all the intricacies, she knows enough how to proceed safely. She performs the necessary rituals, tracing her fingers over the ancient runes carved into the vines, while whispering incantations in the language of the fey.
As she completes the ritual, the vines begin to glow brighter, and a shimmering portal appears and grows into a circular shape. Yávië stares at the portal, murmuring to herself, "This should take me much closer to Everlund." Taking a deep breath, Yávië steps into the portal, feeling the familiar rush of Feywild magic envelop her. The transition is swift and disorienting. One moment she is in the forest, and the next she is surrounded by the vibrant, otherworldly beauty of the Feywild.
Knowing that time moves differently in the Feywild, Yávië proceeds quickly. She follows the path laid out by the ancient magic, feeling the connection to her homeland strengthen with each step. After what feels like mere moments, but could have been far longer, Yávië emerges from the Feywild, finding herself on the outskirts of a large city. The portal behind her shimmers and fades, leaving no trace of its existence.
She takes a moment to adjust to the change, feeling the solid ground of the Material Plane beneath her feet once more. Ahead there is a bustling city, which must be Everlund, its gates welcoming and its streets filled with the promise of new adventures. Yávië's journey has been significantly shortened thanks to the Feywild path. She now stands ready to continue her quest for the Celestial Orb.
Yávië makes her way to the closest gate and enters the city; on the stone arch over the entrance are large, block letters, showing this to be the Silverymoon Gate. Taking a deep breath and blending in with the crowds, she keeps her ears open for any useful information.
Deciding a key place to gather more information would be a tavern, she heads off to the Silver Stag Inn. She enters the bustling common room, filled with the warm glow of lanterns and the hum of conversation. She orders a cheap drink and finds a seat in a corner where she can discreetly observe the room.
From a table filled with adventurers to her left, snippets of conversation drift over:
Adventurer 1: "Can you believe it’s already the 16th of Mirtul? Time flies."
Adventurer 2: "Yeah, and with these bandits causing trouble, it’s been a rough month."
Nearby, a table of merchants catches her ear:
Merchant 1: "I’ve heard Nimly Sparkleshine, the gemcutter, is making a name for himself as a private investigator. He’s been looking into some interesting cases."
Merchant 2: “Did you hear about ‘aggard’s new inventory? Got ‘imself a bag of holding in stock, ‘e did. Lucky bastard, ‘aven’t gotten my ‘ands on one in ages!”
A loud conversation at the bar draws her attention next:
Local 1: "The Hall of Elders is on high alert. They say they’re protecting something really valuable."
Local 2: "Maybe it’s that Celestial Orb everyone’s been whispering about. You think it’s true?"
16th of Mirtul, 1492
Yávië sips her drink and makes a note of the current date. Her “moments” in the Feywild were almost two weeks in the Material Plane. Her ears perk up at the mention of the Bag of Holding. With a penchant for collecting anything that isn't nailed down, she has long harbored a desire for one of these magical bags. Despite her travels in the Feywild, she had never come across one, and now, here in the Material Plane, is her chance to finally get her hands on one.
After gathering valuable information at the Silver Stag Inn, Yávië decides that her first stop should be Haggard's Magical Emporium. The rumors about Haggard being the merchant to see about a Bag of Holding make it a promising place to start her quest.
Yávië navigates through the bustling streets, her keen eyes taking in the sights and sounds of the city. She follows the directions given to her by the innkeeper, Darian, making her way across the River Rauvin and up to the northwest section of the city where Haggard's shop is located.
Haggard's Magical Emporium is a quaint, two-story building with a sign above the door depicting a wand and a crystal ball. Through the windows she spies various magical trinkets and curiosities, each one glowing faintly with enchantment.
As Yávië steps inside, a small bell above the door chimes, announcing her arrival. The interior of the shop is filled with shelves and cabinets crammed with all manner of magical items-scrolls, potions, enchanted weapons, and more. The air is thick with the scent of incense and her skin tingles with magic.
Behind the counter stands Haggard, a dark skinned welcoming old man with a neatly trimmed white beard and sharp, intelligent eyes. He looks up from the tome he was reading and offers Yávië a warm, albeit curious, smile. "Welcome to Haggard's Magical Emporium. How can I assist you today, traveler?"
Yávië steps forward, her swirling eyes wide with excitement. "Hi there! I’ve heard many things in this town in the short time I’ve been here… one being the Bag of Holding you’ve recently acquired." As she finishes her sentence, she almost stands on her tiptoes, her eagerness palpable. "I’ve wanted one ever since I laid eyes on one and they’re just so hard to come by… but I’ve got a few odd jobs lined up so I should be able to afford it soon but I know they are sought after and go quickly… Is there anything that I could do for you? A chore, a quest, a favor… so that maybe you will hold the bag until I can afford it? It shouldn’t be too long." Yávië's voice drips with eagerness as she speaks.
Haggard's eyes twinkle with amusement and interest as he listens to Yávië's enthusiastic plea. "Ah, a Bag of Holding is indeed a sought-after item. You’re in luck, I do have one in stock. And I must say, your enthusiasm is quite infectious." He strokes his beard thoughtfully. "Tell you what, I do have a task that needs attending to. There’s a bit of trouble with some bandits on the road leading to one of my suppliers. They’ve been making it difficult for my goods to arrive on time, or at all. If you can deal with this bandit problem and ensure safe passage for my next shipment, I’ll hold the item for you until you can afford it. How does that sound?"
Yávië's excitement bubbles over, her entire body vibrating with enthusiasm. "ABSOLUTELY!!!"
Haggard chuckles, clearly amused by Yávië's eagerness. "Very well, then. Here are the details. The bandits have been targeting the road to the south of Everlund, near the old watchtower ruins on the southern edge of the Whispering Woods. My next shipment is due to arrive in two days' time." He hands Yávië a small map showing the location of the watchtower ruins and the expected route of the shipment. "Be careful, these bandits can be quite cunning. I look forward to hearing of your success."
With the map in hand, Yávië bids her farewell, and heads toward the Gemcutters' Guild, intrigued by the rumors she overheard about Nimly Sparkleshine, a gemcutter turned private investigator. She hopes to learn more about his recent adventures while appearing to shop their wares.
The Gemcutters' Guild is a grand building, with intricate carvings of precious gems and tools adorning its façade. The interior is equally impressive, filled with sparkling displays of expertly cut gemstones and fine jewelry. The air is filled with the soft hum of conversations and the clinking of tools. Yávië casually browses the various gems and jewelry, her fingers lightly tracing over the intricate pieces, all the while keeping her ears open for any interesting conversations about Nimly Sparkleshine.
Conversations Overheard
Gemcutter 1: "Did you hear about Nimly’s latest adventure? He discovered a hidden chamber filled with ancient gemstones! His skills are truly unmatched."
Gemcutter 2: "I know! And not just that, he also solved the mystery of the missing miners. Turns out they were hill dwarves trapped by a cave-in. Nimly's quick thinking saved them all."
Gemcutter 3: "He’s really making a name for himself, both as a prospector and an investigator. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets called upon for even more important tasks soon.”
As she idly wanders, she is approached by one of the guild members. "Good day! Can I help you find something specific? Our gems are of the highest quality, perfect for any purpose you might have. We would ask that you not touch our displays."
Yávië’s eyes dart around taking specific note of the high value items and their locations, which might be useful for a later visit. “Oh hi there, not looking for anything specific, no. Just out shopping and browsing for the day. This shop is beautiful!”
The guild member acknowledges Yávië’s comment with a nod and a look that barely hides his impatience, his eyes clearly saying, move along... and quickly please, without touching anything else.
Yávië spends a few more moments pretending to browse before making her way out of the shop.
As she leaves the Gemcutters Guild, her stomach growls, reminding her that she hasn’t eaten lunch yet. She walks slowly through the streets of Everlund picking out many different types of food vendors. There are taverns, inns and merchant stalls… selling everything from dried hardtack rations to elegant seafood. As she makes her way, she spies a little “hole in the wall” shop with a merchant selling quaint fare that smells delicious. The merchant looks up at her, “What’ll you have dearie? I have fresh pears today, a bit of smoked squirrel, some pigs feet, smoked cheese and savory bread.”
Yávië ponders for a moment, looking over the offerings before making her choice. “Smoked squirrel sounds lovely.”
The stooped old man grins, “I’ll kindly take 1sp for that, and I’ll throw in a piece of yesterdays’ bread.” Yávië smiles, accepting the trade.
Yávië continues her trek to the Hall of the Moon, munching on the smoked squirrel as she walks. The savory smell is not disappointing, the squirrel is fresh and the greasy gamey flavor is ripe with spices and herbs. She passes Silverleaf Hall, and she can hear the sound of a minstrel’s harp playing sweetly on the breeze.
As she arrives at the temple, the waning light is reflected in the long windows. The stones glow with a silvery light that beckons passersby to stop and rest a minute from their travels. By contrast, for Yávië, a temple isn’t her first choice for a place to rest, but like all temples, it is conveniently free and a place to stay. She heads inside and finds a quiet corner in which to meditate, hoping not to be cornered by any nosy staff trying to sway her to their goddess's teachings.
She focuses on Mask and asks for guidance in her endeavors. Her thoughts wander over her recent activities. She feels confident asking for protection and power as she faces the bandits and works to gain control of the Orb.
As Yávië slips into a deeper state of meditation, the ambient noise of the temple fades away. Shadows from the flickering candles stretch and twist, wrapping around her like a protective shroud. The temperature drops slightly, and she feels a chill run down her spine. She opens her eyes to find herself in a different place, a realm of shadows and whispers.
From the darkness, a figure steps forward. Mask, the Lord of Shadows, emerges. His form is ever-shifting, cloaked in darkness, with only his piercing eyes visible, gleaming with a mischievous, knowing light.
“Yávië Ru,” Mask’s voice is a silky whisper that seems to come from all directions at once. “You have pleased me with your recent endeavors. Your skill, your cunning, your willingness to embrace the shadows… all these things make you a true servant of mine.”
A wave of pride washes over Yávië as Mask’s words sink in. The god of thieves and shadows is proud of her, acknowledging her illicit deeds and efforts.
"I have a task for you." As Mask speaks, the shadows around Yávië shift and part, revealing a scene of a dense, mystical forest bathed in silver moonlight. In the heart of the forest, a majestic stag appears, its fur glistening like liquid silver. The stag moves with a grace and serenity that seems almost otherworldly, its eyes glowing with an inner light.
"The Silver Stag," Mask continues, "is a symbol of purity and power, sought by many for their own purposes. Some will seek to protect it, others to harness its power. You, however, must remain neutral. Do not aid anyone, whether they intend to protect or harm it." Mask's voice grows more intense, each word filled with a sense of urgency and command. "You are to observe and learn, Yávië. The balance of power must be maintained, and your neutrality is crucial. Remember, in the shadows, you are unseen, and your influence, though hidden, is profound." The vision of the forest and the Silver Stag begins to dissolve, the shadows closing in once more. Mask's form becomes indistinct, his final words echoing in her mind. "Do not forget my command. Stay neutral; observe and let others play their part."
Yávië blinks, and finds herself back in the temple, the flickering candlelight and distant murmurs of prayers filling her senses once more. The vision lingers, the image of the Silver Stag burned into her mind. Mask has given her a mission, a chance to prove her worth and to gain even greater power. The path ahead is clear, and Yávië feels a renewed sense of purpose.
In the dim light of the temple Yávië notices, in addition to the temple staff milling about, a gnome has taken a seat not far from her. He sits there examining a wand, obviously avoiding disturbing her. However, seeing that she’s come out of her meditation, the gnome waves and approaches. At his side waddles a giant rat, its whiskers twitching and nose snuffling. The gnome smiles at her and speaks, “Good evening! Yávië Ru? A mutual acquaintance, Darian from the Silver Stag, gave me your name and said you had some strong feelings on the bandit issues that Everlund is dealing with. My name is Nimly Sparkleshine and I have strong feelings too.”
Chapter 10 - Polishing and Potions
3rd of Mirtul, 1492
The sun has already set as the gnome and the giant rat walk through the quietest parts of the Bell Market. Towards the river and on their left, the green space is still a steady buzz in the night air. The Moonlit Market is softly lit on any night, either by the light of the moon or by enchantments in the various structures that are brightest when the moon is dimmest. The orbs are now glowing in a comfortable light to make up for the new moon moving across the sky.
As they cross through the Bell Market and onto the city streets, they travel quietly over the cracked cobblestone. Just ahead, lit up in the darkness, is the Gemcutter’s Guild. Nimly takes in the familiar sight of the intricate carvings on the doors and pillars, with stained glass windows that depict scenes of gem working and mining. A large sign featuring a chisel and a gem hangs above the entrance, making it easily recognizable. The gem itself is the brightest part of the structure, glowing with a deep orange light.
Nimly feels a sense of pride and belonging as he approaches the place that has made him feel welcome on every trip he has taken to Everlund. Inside, the guildhall is fairly quiet at this time of night, with a lone staff member on duty at the welcome desk. Workbenches sit idle against the walls and will be busy once more as the sun rises. Absent are the sounds of tools clinking and the quiet murmur of focused craftsmen. The receptionist, a short slender wood elf, looks up as the pair enter the lobby. He greets Nimly, his voice soft and excited, "Welcome, Master Sparkleshine! It's good to see you this evening. You, and your new friend! How can I assist you?"
Nimly searches his memory for this person’s name and comes up empty. “Greetings! It has been too long. Could I use a workstation this evening?” Nimly puts a hand on the rat’s shoulder. “This is Thorn!”
The receptionist nods agreeably. “Of course, Master Sparkleshine. You can use any of the workstations here in the lobby. Feel free to set up where you wish.”
The receptionist returns to his tasks as Nimly moves to an open workstation. The desk is well-equipped with high-quality tools and materials, ensuring that he can begin work immediately. Thorn curls up nearby. Nimly settles into the familiar rhythm of his work, carefully examining a large uncut emerald. He envisions the potential within the stone, planning to take the long hours needed to transform it into a step-cut octagon. His skilled hands deftly use the tools, making precise cuts and adjustments as he works.
The sounds of his own clinking tools account for all the noises in the guild hall building. Through two passages near the back of the guild, there are some lights flickering near office placards. The occasional whir of his grinder adds to the symphonic duet of transforming potential and the creation of gem dust. Nimly's concentration is intense as he gets lost in the work.
Four hours pass, the gemcutting process holding his full attention. In the last hours before midnight, Nimly becomes aware of the burbling hunger ever growing in his stomach. He looks toward the napping Thorn and rouses the rat. “Let’s go visit Darian at the Stag, for a room and a hot meal.”
The gnome and the giant rat leave the Guild heading towards the Knightbridge, the Moonlit Market more active than ever as they pass. Just across the bridge, they see the Silver Stag Inn, bright and cheerful, with the sounds of happy patrons nearly drowning out the lively melody of a flute. Rubbing his hands, Nimly pictures a Sun’s Glory and a cheese platter and a fruit tray and pot pie. Thorn squeaks and sends his own message of some fish well cured and tasty, next to a cartoonishly large wheel of cheese.
Nimly enters the inn, with Thorn following closely behind. The common room is warm and inviting. The smell of pine and peat moss is wafting from the hearth, swirling around the patrons enjoying their meals and drinks. The innkeeper, a distinguished older man named Darian, approaches with a welcoming smile. "Welcome back, Nimly! It's good to see you. What can I help with?"
Nimly smiles up at the familiar innkeep, “Darian, how are you!? I would like you to meet Thorn…” He steps aside and gestures grandly. “We would like accommodations for a few nights with dinner and breakfast included. The kitchen smells amazing. Is it possible that you have a Sun’s Glory and a cheese platter and a fruit tray and … perhaps a pot pie as well? Thorn will also want a cheese wheel for himself and some smoked salmon.”
Darian's eyes widen slightly as he sees Thorn, but his welcoming smile doesn't waver. "Well met, Thorn! It's not every day we get such a unique guest. I'm doing well, thank you for asking, Nimly. Let's get you both settled in." Darian grabs a ledger from the counter and flips it open. "I’ll get a tab started for you. We have a comfortable room on the ground floor that should be perfect for you and Thorn. I’ll check with the kitchen, we should be able to accommodate that order just fine." He jots down the details in the ledger and then looks up, still smiling. “Will there be anything else?”
Nimly nods, “Could you have everything sent to our room? Thorn and I are ready to settle in for the night.”
Darian waves a hand, “Of course, I’ll have it sent over when it’s ready. Rest well, my friends.”
As they arrive in their room, Thorn finds a comfortable spot near the bed. Nimly takes a moment to reflect on his journey thus far, before settling into an armchair.
The past few days have been eventful and full of challenges. He thinks about the bandits he encountered on the way to Everlund, feeling the victory and relief as he overcame them with Thorn by his side. Nimly's heart swells with pride at the thought of how far he has come from the depths of Glimmerstone, and the five long years he’s spent cultivating a life on the surface.
4th - 10th of Mirtul, 1492
Nimly awakes at the Silver Stag Inn and heads to the Gemcutter’s Guild. The next seven days spent in Everlund pass in a blur. He dedicates his time primarily to the Guild, driven by the compelling need to finish the step-cut octagon he’d started. Only taking breaks to eat and sleep at the inn, Nimly immerses himself in his craft. While he intended to spend his days focused on finishing the gem, he gets pulled away again and again by his interest in enchanting.
Thorn spends the days sacked out at the inn and the nights exploring the city on his own, making connections with the local rat populations and becoming more familiar with the alleyways and sewers. The two friends exchange brief conversations when they see each other.
During Nimly’s time at the guild, he requisitions several enchanting tomes from the quartermaster’s library to further enhance those skills. His hours are spent meticulously polishing and cutting the gem, while also delving into the borrowed texts. Over the course of these days, Nimly invests a total of 25 hours perfecting the gem and an additional 83 hours honing his enchanting abilities. This obsessively focused time earns Nimly 124 dedicated hours toward his enchanting, due to the pleasant atmosphere, lack of distractions, and access to written materials.
It is early evening on the 10th of Mirtul. Nimly takes a final look at the gem in progress, though not yet finished, it is exquisite. In the proper hands, it may yet be a masterpiece. He makes his way to the clerk and gets his attention. “I wish to talk with one of our agents in raw acquisition.”
The clerk nods enthusiastically, “I’ll arrange for that immediately. You might be able to speak with Aric, our primary contact for raw materials in this region. He is still in the guildhall tonight." The helpful functionary steps back and bows. "I'll let Aric know that you wish to speak with him. He should be able to join you shortly."
A few moments later, an immaculate high elf approaches Nimly’s workstation. He is wearing a smart three-piece gray suit with red accents. "Master Sparkleshine, it's impressive to watch you work. Your craftsmanship never ceases to amaze me. Your last few days here have proved quite fruitful."
Nimly acknowledges Aric with a nod. “It is good to see you again, Aric. I find myself in the area for the short term at least and I do not wish to step on others toes. I do have an interest in working on locating new mines for the guild. Is there an area that currently lacks our attention?” He holds the partially completed gem up to a workstation light. “It is nice to get lost in this work. This rock will nearly glow with its own inner light once finished.”
Aric listens, nodding thoughtfully. "It's always a pleasure to have you involved, Master Sparkleshine. We do have some areas that could use attention. While our main supply lines are stable, we've had disruptions due to the increased bandit activity. It takes most of our resources to keep excavation efforts in known claims safe.”
He pulls out his ledger and opens it to a page filled with notes and maps. "There are a few areas that stand out. First, the hills to the northwest of Everlund. We've had reports of potential gem deposits there. It's relatively unexplored and there's a possibility of finding new mines. Secondly, the mountains to the northeast. This area is more challenging due to its rough terrain and the presence of potentially hostile creatures, but it has historically yielded high-value gems. We've had some preliminary scouting done, but nothing comprehensive."
Aric continues, "Lastly, there’s a region south of here, in the closest parts of the High Forest. It's a bit riskier due to bandit activity, but there have been rumors of significant gem deposits. Any expedition there would need to be well-prepped and possibly accompanied by guards."
Aric glances at the emerald Nimly is working on, admiring its emerging brilliance. "Your work is truly remarkable, Nimly. If you decide to take on any of these tasks, it would be a great boon to the guild. We could arrange for some initial funding and supplies for your expedition, and I can provide you with more detailed maps and reports."
Nimly idly holds the gem while he considers the flood of advice and opportunities. “The maps and reports are invaluable; I will happily take any that you have for the hills northwest of Everlund. I will pick up the work where others have left off. For funding, I propose to leave this emerald in the capable hands of another craftsman and under the ownership of the guild, for whatever payment you find reasonable. You have always had a keen eye for worth in such matters. I already have supplies and the hills are calling to me.”
Aric nods appreciatively at Nimly’s proposal, taking the gem and examining it closely. "This emerald is very good, and it has remarkable potential. Your skills are exquisite, Nimly. Given its quality and the work you’ve already done, I would estimate its value at around 1200 gold pieces."
He hands Nimly a bundle of papers. "These maps and reports on the hills northwest of Everlund should provide you a good starting point. They include the areas we’ve scouted so far and potential hotspots for gem deposits."
Aric makes a note in his ledger and hands Nimly a sizable pouch of 1200 gold pieces as payment for the emerald. "Here are the funds. If you need any additional supplies or support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Safe travels, Nimly. The guild eagerly awaits news of your findings."
Nimly nods, securing the pouch of gold and the sheaf of papers. "Thank you, Aric. I will set out soon and keep the guild informed of my progress. Until then, may your days be filled with light and your hands with skill." He gives a final glance around the otherwise empty lobby of the guild hall, then turns to leave, ready to embark on his next adventure. Thorn gets to his feet from a nap and follows the gnome out the door.
Chapter 11 - Work & Wonder
10th of Mirtul, 1492
As he leaves the guild with his new wealth turning over in his mind, Nimly keeps an eye out for shops that cater to adventurers and magic users. He recognizes the familiar sign of Robes, Rods, and Potions, a family operated chain of establishments that can be found in a few of the cities around Faerûn. This shop is adorned with intricate arcane symbols and runes, and the windows display a variety of magical items, including enchanted clothing, ensorcelled rods, and bubbling potions in every possible hue, in a fantastic variety of glass bottles. The air is filled with the faint scent of herbs and alchemical ingredients, and the soft glow of magical light illuminates the interior.
Nimly enters the shop, with Thorn following closely behind. The shopkeeper, a tall and elegant elf with silver hair and piercing green eyes, greets him with a warm smile. "W-welcome to Robes, Rods and Potions; I am Eben! H-how can I assist you today? We have a wide selection of magical items, potions, and other necessities for an adventurer such as yourself."
Nimly looks around, taking in the displays. “I’m in the market for a few potions and an enchanted rod, if the deal is right. How is your selection of warlock rods, my good sir?”
Eben nods and gestures towards a display case filled with various rods, each glowing with a faint magical aura. He smiles, his eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. "Ah, an excellent choice," he says, motioning towards a display case filled with ornate objects. "We have a fine selection that would be perfect for a warlock such as yourself. Allow me to show you our best offerings."
He carefully picks up the first item, its surface shimmering with a faint magical aura. "Th-this is the Rod of the Pact Keeper +1," he explains. "It grants a competitive edge (+1 bonus to spell attack rolls and saving throw DCs) for your warlock spells. Additionally, once per long rest, you may use an action to recover a spell slot." He pauses, letting the weight of his words sink in. "This one is priced at 1500 gold pieces."
Next, Eben presents a slightly more elaborate device. "H-here we have the Rod of the Pact Keeper +2, which offers even greater advantages for your warlock needs (+2 bonus to spell attack rolls and saving throw DCs)," he says, his tone reverently indicating its enhanced power. "This one is priced at 5000 gold pieces."
Eben then ever so gingerly picks up a rod that seems to hum with energy. "Th-this is the Rod of Absorption," he says. "It can absorb and store spells cast at you, which you can later use to cast spells of your own. It is an invaluable tool for any warlock, priced at 50,000 gold pieces."
Eben places the rods back in their display case with a satisfied smile. "Now, allow me to introduce you to our fine selection of potions, each one crafted to aid you on your adventures.”
He picks up a small vial filled with a vibrant red liquid. "First, we have the Basic Healing Potion," he explains. "This potion will heal you of minor injuries (for 2d4+2 hit points, and as you level it increases in potency). It's a staple for any adventurer and each is priced at 100 gold pieces."
Next, Eben lifts another vial containing a brighter red liquid. "For more serious injuries, I recommend the Potion of Greater Healing, which is this potent brew (4d4+4 hit points, and as you level it increases in potency). Each vial costs 400 gold."
Eben's hand moves to a vial filled with a golden liquid that seems to glow with an inner light. "Here we have the Potion of H-h-heroism. It grants immediate aid (10 temporary hit points) and the effects of the Bless spell for an hour. Truly a boon in battle, each of these potions are priced at 1000 gold pieces."
Setting everything back in its place he says, “These are our finest rods and potions. If you have any questions or w-would like to see anything in more detail, please let me know. We can also discuss price deals if you're looking to purchase multiple items."
Nimly’s eyes gleam with excitement as he surveys the shop’s wares. "A most excellent selection! I have my eye on the Pact Keeper Mark I," he declares, with a bit of wonder. Reaching into his pouch, Nimly retrieves a large, gleaming ruby and places it with a flourish on the immaculate countertop. "Will you part with the rod and two potions of healing for this magnificent ruby and 1000 gold pieces?" he asks with a grin.
Eben's eyes widen at the sight of the ruby, clearly impressed by its quality. "Th-this is indeed a splendid ruby. L-let me take a closer look," he says, leaning in to inspect it. He examines the ruby carefully, using a loupe to scrutinize its clarity and cut. After a few moments, he nods appreciatively. "Th-this ruby is exquisite, truly a gem of exceptional quality. I believe we can make a deal."
Setting the ruby down gently, Eben turns to retrieve the items Nimly requested. He places the items on the counter. "The Rod of the Pact Keeper +1 and two Basic Healing Potions, in exchange for this ruby and 1000 gold pieces. It's a pleasure doing business with you," he says, a satisfied smile on his face. "If you need anything else, feel free to let me know. I wish you the best of luck on your adventures," Eben adds, his tone warm and inviting.
Nimly smiles and makes the items disappear into his pack. "I hope to be back soon, with more wondrous trades ahead of us," he replies, giving a courteous nod before exiting the shop. He gives Thorn a wide grin and spins his Rod of the Pact Keeper. “The next bandits that stop us on the road will be launched right out of their boots! C’mon Thorn, Let’s head to Darian’s and get rested before we head out tomorrow!”
As they enter the Silver Stag, Darian hails them over. Nimly approaches the bar, and Darian leans in slightly, lowering his voice just enough to add a touch of intrigue. "Nimly! There have been increasing reports of bandit activity on the roads leading out of the city. Some of the bandits are becoming more organized, which has traders and travelers on edge. The city guard is doing their best, but it's been tough keeping them in check."
He glances around the room, making sure no one else is listening too closely before continuing. "Also, there's talk about some strange occurrences in the nearby forests. A few folks claim they've seen unusual lights and heard eerie sounds at night. The druids believe it might be something to do with the Fey, but no one knows for sure."
He straightens up and smiles again. "And on a more positive note, there's a big celebration planned for the end of the month. It's to honor the city’s founding, and there will be feasts, games, and all sorts of festivities. If you’re still around, you should definitely check it out." Darian pats Nimly on the shoulder. "Are you settlin’ in for the night? Would you both like some dinner?"
Nimly thanks him for the information and removes the bandit map from his inside pocket, spreading it out briefly on the counter. Once Darian registers the context of it, Nimly folds it closed. He speaks softly, “If you still offer mailing services here, could I have this discreetly sent to Captain Anara? I am heading out of town tomorrow. I do not know her personally, but perhaps with your contacts, you could see that she receives this bit of intelligence to assist in the fight against the bandits. I acquired this map from three brutes that attempted to rob me about a day north of Everlund on the Silverymoon Road.”
Darian’s eyes widen slightly as he sees the bandit map. He nods slowly when Nimly explains its significance. "I understand, Nimly. We still offer mailing services. I can ensure that this map gets to Captain Anara. She’s been working tirelessly to combat the bandit threat, and this information could be invaluable." He takes the map carefully, ensuring it remains folded and discreet. "Is there anything else I can assist you with?”
Nimly nods, “Have dinner sent to our room, please. We’ll be turning in early so we can head out at first light.” The pair leave the bar and make their way to their room.
Nimly flops down on the bed, both exhausted and satisfied from his work over the past several days. His interactions with the Gemcutter's Guild in Everlund had brought back memories of his family in Glimmerstone, where his father worked in gem cutting and sales, while his mother was kept quite busy on away missions into the Underdark to find raw materials. The crafting and the sale of the emerald felt like a return to his roots; finding Thorn and the commissioning of his leather barding felt like a new chapter in his life, where he would have a constant companion and friend at his back.
This blend of the old and the new fit well together in his mind, and he smiles at the thought of new gems to be found and the manner in which they would overcome new foes on the way. Nimly also reflects on the warm reception he received from Darian and the comforts of the Silver Stag Inn. Despite the threats lurking outside the city, he feels a sense of belonging and purpose in Everlund. With all the experience gained so far in their adventures, Nimly and Thorn will reach level 4 after their long rest!
As sleep begins to overtake him, Nimly feels the familiar, comforting presence of Grahl, his elemental patron. The room seems to darken, and the air grows heavy with an earthy scent.
In his mind’s eye, Nimly sees the ancient and powerful figure of Grahl, a being of living stone and earth, his appearance that of an amalgamation of rocks, minerals, and soil.
The voice of Grahl resonates deeply within Nimly's being, echoing like the rumble of shifting earth. "Nimly, my faithful servant, hear my call. The time has come for you to pursue the Silver Stag. This creature is no ordinary beast; it is a manifestation of the earth’s purest essence, a symbol of balance and harmony. The Silver Stag’s presence in this region signifies a convergence of powerful natural energies. Its delivery to me will bring us closer to understanding the deep, hidden forces that shape our world."
Nimly sees a vision of the Silver Stag, a magnificent and ethereal creature with a shimmering silver coat and antlers that sparkle like precious gems. The stag moves gracefully through a dense, mystical forest, its every step leaving a trail of light.
Grahl continues, “You must seek out this stag, not only for the power it holds but to protect it from those who would exploit its essence for darker purposes. The balance of nature is delicate, and the Silver Stag is a keystone in maintaining this equilibrium. By bringing it to me, you will help preserve the harmony of our world and unlock secrets that have been buried for millennia."
Grahl's vision fades, leaving Nimly with a sense of purpose and determination. The call to pursue the Silver Stag is clear, and he knows that this quest will be a defining moment in his journey. As the vision ends, Nimly drifts into a deep sleep, his dreams filled with images of the Silver Stag and the path that lies ahead. He feels the weight of Grahl's expectations, but also the thrill of the adventure that awaits.
11th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
In the early morning light, following his dream of the stag, Nimly spends time writing down his best recollections of his two previous sightings of the mystical creature, including visual description, locations, times of day, distance upon sighting and how skittish the creature acted. Upon reflection of this new quest and his previous intentions, he chooses to continue on his quest to seek out gem deposits to the northwest, while retaining an awareness for the stag and a willingness to alter his objectives if another sighting should happen.
He makes his way to breakfast with Thorn and also to check in for any updates from Darian. The room is filled with the comforting smells of freshly baked bread, sizzling bacon, and brewed coffee. Patrons are already bustling, exchanging stories and plans for the day.
Darian, ever the hospitable innkeeper, spots Nimly and Thorn entering and waves them over. "Good morning, Nimly! And a good morning to you too, Thorn. I hope you both slept well. Please, take a seat and I’ll get breakfast out to you shortly."
Nimly and Thorn settle at a table, and Darian brings over two plates heaped with steaming scrambled eggs and buttered toast. "Thank you for the delicious food, Darian. I also wanted to check in on any updates, particularly regarding the map I entrusted you with."
Darian nods, his expression serious for a moment."Yes, indeed. I made sure the map was delivered to Captain Anara last night. She was very appreciative and mentioned that this information could greatly aid their efforts against the bandits. You did a good thing, Nimly."
With his morning preparations complete and both of them well-fed, Nimly steps out of the Silver Stag Inn, feeling the warmth of the morning sun on his face. The city of Everlund is bustling with activity, the streets nearby filled with merchants, crafters and all the other townsfolk beginning their day. Nimly adjusts his gear and ensures his notes about the Silver Stag are securely tucked away. Thorn stands beside him, eyes alert and ears twitching at the surrounding noises. Nimly pats the rat affectionately and the two set off to the north, across the Knightbridge, skirting the west side of the Bell Market, and following the widest streets out towards the northwest gate.
The guards at the Silverymoon Gate nod in recognition as Nimly and Thorn pass by, having become somewhat familiar with the gnome and his giant rat during their stay. The dirt road ahead is well-trodden and busy with traffic already, leading out into the wilds beyond the city's protective walls.
As they leave the city behind, the sounds of urban life gradually fade, replaced by the rustling of leaves and the chirping of morning birds. The road curves to the north towards Silverymoon, with the River Rauvin visible in the distance off to the left. The pair travel through dense bits of forest and occasional clearings that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Nimly and Thorn move at a steady pace, the gnome’s keen eyes and the rat’s sharp senses keeping watch for danger.
The journey is peaceful, the morning air fresh and invigorating. Nimly reflects on his dreams and the vision from Grahl, feeling a deep connection to the earth and its hidden wonders. The thoughts of the Silver Stag cross his mind frequently, keeping him alert and observant. They come to a side road that heads west, towards a small bridge across the River Rauvin that Nimly has used before. The pair turns and heads for the bridge, and beyond that into the wild splendor of the Whispering Woods.
Chapter 12 - Fight or Flight
11th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
By midday in their travels, Nimly and Thorn reach a particularly dense part of the forest, where the canopy overhead provides cool shade from the sun. They decide to take a short break, sitting quietly and enjoying the tranquility of the wilderness. Nimly turns to Thorn. "This area looks promising. Let's keep our senses sharp and see what we can find.”
As Nimly runs his hand through the grass and dirt of the forest floor, his fingers glow green for a moment as he casts Guidance on himself. He looks around the forest, searching for any large outcroppings of bedrock that might indicate the presence of valuable mineral deposits. Despite his best efforts, his perception is somewhat dulled (rolling a 6), and the forest remains unremarkable to him, save for the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant call of a bird. Nimly’s attention seems to wander, and he doesn't spot anything significant. The thick foliage and shadows play tricks on his eyes, making it difficult to discern any promising geological features.
Nimly reaches out mentally to Thorn, who is sniffing around nearby. "Thorn, can you sense any streams or water sources nearby? We might find some interesting rocks and minerals along the water’s edge."
Thorn's ears perk up at Nimly's mental communication, and he begins to sniff the air more intently, his whiskers twitching with concentration. After a few moments, he squeaks softly and starts moving to the south, his nose bobbing in the air as he mentally relays that he's following the scent of water.
Encouraged, he trusts Thorn's instincts and follows his giant rat companion. The forest grows more lush, the sounds of rustling leaves and distant bird calls providing a soothing backdrop to their journey. Nimly feels a sense of anticipation, knowing that even if he didn't spot anything significant, Thorn's keen senses are likely to lead them to a valuable discovery.
After a short while, the sound of running water reaches Nimly's ears. They come upon a small, clear stream bubbling gently over smooth stones. Thorn stops at the edge of the water, sniffing around and occasionally glancing back at Nimly. They walk upstream, examining the rocks for any promising signs of gems and looking for significant rock outcrops. As they continue upstream, the forest encroaches further and the sound of water becomes more pronounced. The canopy overhead is thick with foliage, casting shifting shadows on the forest floor. The air is cool and fresh, filled with the scent of cedar and damp earth.
Suddenly, Thorn freezes, his ears twitching and nose sniffing the air intently. Nimly senses “wolves” through their mental bond and spots movement in the underbrush ahead. Emerging from the foliage, a pair of large wolves step into view. They are lean and muscular, their dark fur blending seamlessly with the shadows of the forest.
Nimly sets his feet and, attempting to scare them off, sends an Eldritch Blast infused with Repelling Blast at the larger of the two wolves (14:hits). The cantrip hits with a powerful force, dealing 13 points of damage and sending the creature tumbling backwards 10 feet.
The larger of the two wolves, distinguished by several scars, remains undeterred and growls menacingly, its eyes locked on Nimly. It appears to be the leader, directing the movements of the other wolf. The second wolf, slightly smaller but no less dangerous, stands its ground, following the lead of the larger wolf.
Roll Initiative.
—-—-
Round 1
Nimly sets his stance, his fingers crackling with arcane energy, and unleashes an Eldritch Blast at the smaller of the two wolves (16:hits). The bolt of force strikes true, dealing 9 points of force damage.
Thorn scampers up to the smaller wolf. His small but sharp teeth find purchase in the wolf's flank (18:hits), ripping away a chunk of flesh and dealing 5 points of piercing damage. Blood spatters the forest floor, and the smaller wolf, now bloodied, snarls in pain.
The smaller wolf, driven by a mix of pain and rage, lunges at Thorn, but the wolf finds no purchase with his feeble attempt.
The larger wolf, seeing its packmate's plight, growls deeply and charges at Nimly. Its powerful jaws close around Nimly's arm (14:hits), dealing 8 points of piercing damage. Nimly grits his teeth against the pain, determined not to falter.
Round 2
Nimly glances around assessing the terrain and casts Rockslide. He slides towards the smaller wolf in a 60 foot line, skating on rocks and dirt that catches both wolves in his wake. Closer to Thorn now, he cheers at his friend. Nimly casts Elemental Shield as a bonus action, making his skin ripple in a gray shade once again and he gains 3 temporary hit points. He runs an additional 10 ft away from the larger wolf. The effect of the Rockslide causes the larger of the wolves to be knocked prone (failed save), while the smaller of the two remains standing.
Thorn lunges again, his teeth flashing in the dappled forest light. He bites into the leg of the same wolf (15:hits), dealing another 6 points of piercing damage. The smaller wolf begins to limp, its injuries mounting.
With a final burst of energy, the smaller wolf's hackles rise, and it snaps at Thorn (13:hits), its teeth sinking into the rat's fur and flesh, dealing 5 points of piercing damage.
The larger wolf struggles to its feet, using half its movement to stand. With a determined growl, it lumbers toward Nimly, closing the distance by 20 feet.
Round 3
Thorn, undeterred by his wounds, wiggles his butt and lunges at the smaller wolf once more (18:hits). His teeth sink deep, causing 5 points of piercing damage.
Nimly, with a flourish, turns on the smaller wolf and hurls another Eldritch Blast (23:hits). The force of the blast strikes the wolf, dealing 4 points of force damage.
The smaller wolf, disoriented but not yet defeated, lunges at the rat (14:hits). His bite sinks deep and causes 6 points of piercing damage to Thorn.
The larger wolf, frustration evident in its eyes, lets out a howl and uses its dash action to close the distance between itself and Nimly.
Round 4
Nimly, with an eye for avoiding damage to his friend, points precisely to a spot on the forest floor near both wolves. With a decisive gesture, he casts Shatter for 17 points of thunder damage. An intense blast of sonic energy erupts, hitting both wolves. They drop to the ground, doing their best to shield their sensitive ears. Each takes 8 points of damage after successfully passing their Constitution saving throws. The smaller wolf collapses, unmoving.
With one last surge of energy, Thorn rushes up and sinks his teeth into the larger wolf (18:hits), carrying it to the ground and dealing 9 points of piercing damage. The wolf’s carotid is severed and it lays still on the forest floor.
Nimly breathes a sigh of relief, the adrenaline of battle slowly ebbing away. He mentally checks in with Thorn, grateful for their survival amidst the dangers of the Whispering Woods.
—-—-
With the wolves dead and the forest quiet once more, Nimly attempts to salvage what he can from the corpses (survival 3). Using pliers from his gemcutter kit, he successfully extracts two canine teeth and two rations of wolf meat. He cleans the canines, wraps up the meat, and adds both to his pack. He gives his pliers a dubious look and cleans them as best he can.
Nimly and Thorn take a short rest, munching on rations while they each share their favorite moments from the battle. After the rest, both companions feel invigorated. Using their hit dice, they regain full health, and Nimly recovers access to his more powerful warlock spells. Encouraged by their successful encounter with the wolves, they continue up the river in search of gems. Despite its dangers, the forest smells nice and holds great promise.
With the sun low on the horizon, he decides to keep moving upstream, looking for a suitable campsite. He soon spots a small clearing near the stream, providing enough space for both him and Thorn to rest. Although it doesn’t offer a great view of their surroundings, it is cozy and appears to be safe enough. They clear away debris, gather firewood, and set up a makeshift shelter. Starting a fire, they roast the wolf meat harvested earlier that day, the gentle sound of the river providing a soothing melody to their dinner.
With all preparations complete, Nimly and Thorn decide to sleep in shifts. Nimly takes the first watch, and they take turns through the night, ensuring their safety from potential threats.
12th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
As dawn breaks, Nimly and Thorn awaken to the soft light of morning bathing the forest. The air is filled with the sounds of birds and other wildlife. Feeling refreshed, they pack up their camp and continue their journey upstream. The forest is vibrant in the morning light, and they are hopeful to find their intended quarry this day.
They move carefully along the riverbank, keeping an eye out for any sparkles and staying vigilant against potential threats. Up ahead, Nimly spots a promising glint on the visible bedrock. As they get closer, he sees veins of minerals and a few small rough gems embedded in the stone.
Excited, Nimly decides this is a promising site for gem extraction. He takes out his tools and works the visible gems loose (3 small gems), noting their quality before stowing them away for further inspection. He then looks around for a higher vantage point to get his bearings, hoping to accurately record the location of his find. However, the dense forest and uneven terrain prove difficult, and he is unable to get a clear view.
With the higher vantage point proving unfruitful, Nimly decides to use his Earth Glide ability near the spot where he extracted the gems, hoping to find a hidden cavern or tunnel beneath the earth. Slowly sinking into the ground, Nimly moves with ease. It isn’t long before he discovers a small, narrow tunnel that leads deeper into the earth. The tunnel appears to be naturally formed, possibly by water flow or geological activity, with some small veins of minerals visible along the walls, suggesting the potential for more gemstone deposits further inside.
Nimly moves closer to the surface, examining the tunnel as he goes. He finds a spot where the dirt appears thinner, with faint rays of light filtering through small cracks. Confident that it could be excavated to create a small opening to the surface, Nimly mutters a word and with a flash of his hands, he begins to cast Mold Earth. He uses the spell to open a way to the surface, allowing fresh air and light to pour into the tunnel, making it easier to navigate and explore further.
Nimly clambers out of the opening and motions Thorn over. Together, they delve into the tunnel and begin exploring. The light from the opening provides initial illumination, though neither companion needs light to make their way. They explore the tunnel system for several hours until they come to a branch with three separate paths.
Peering down each tunnel, Nimly chooses to go down the middle branch as it is wider and looks more traveled, with occasional signs of old mining activity. The air is cooler, and there are small deposits visible on the walls. Nimly continues forward, peering through the dim light for signs of valuable minerals. Taking heart from the old mining activity, he hopes that he might find something that they missed.
Further along (investigation:18), Nimly’s keen eyes spot several rich veins of gemstones. They are deeply embedded in a slight crack in the walls, and with careful extraction they might yield valuable gems. Nimly also spots a bunch of old, rusted mining tools left behind and forgotten. While not in the best condition, the tools could be useful for rudimentary gem extraction.
Noting this location, Nimly and Thorn continue further into the tunnel, hoping to find something more promising. They lumber along and are about to turn back, having found nothing except fully mined locations, when Thorn (perception:16) alerts Nimly to a draft coming from a small, narrow crevice in the rock wall. The draft suggests there may be a hidden passage or chamber beyond.
Nimly ponders for a moment, then heads back to retrieve some of the rusted mining equipment they found earlier. He swings an old mining pick, eventually widening the crevice enough for Thorn and himself to pass through.
Inside, they find rich gemstone deposits in the chamber. Nimly spends the next several hours excavating gems, focusing on retrieving larger gems while collecting a few lesser ones along the way. Using his gemcutter knowledge, he carefully extracts the best ones. The fruit of his labor is nine small gems and three large gems.
After hours of toil, they leave the tunnel and return to the surface. With the sun having set, he and Thorn set up camp just inside the tunnel. They again take turns alternating watches throughout the night.
Chapter 13 - Headway and Hideouts
13th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
In the morning with fresh eyes, Nimly looks around for high ground to pinpoint their location. He spots a suitable area. It isn’t the tallest hill or the most prominent vantage point, but it provides a decent view of the surrounding area and helps him get his bearings.
Down below, Nimly sees the entrance to the tunnel. To the southeast, he spots where the stream flows back toward the River Rauvin. He notes these points in his journal along with other landmarks. Deciding they should return to Everlund, he plans to follow the water halfway back, then head north toward the bridge they had used days before.
The journey back is uneventful. The forest is calm, with no hostile encounters from humanoids or wildlife. As the day progresses, they find the long wooden crossing, and by late afternoon, the outskirts of Everlund come into view. The city's familiar sights and sounds are a welcome relief after days in the forest.
Nimly nods to the guards at the Silverymoon Gate as he and Thorn make their way back into the city. Their first stop is the Gemcutters Guild, along the banks of the River Rauvin where the wide waterway flows through the middle of the city. Excited by the gem seam in the cavern, he wants to relay his findings to Aric immediately. Entering the guild, Nimly sees Aric talking to the clerk at the front desk. He walks over and waits patiently to get his attention.
When Aric turns, Nimly smiles and holds his hands out, palms up. "Aric! Just the person I’m looking for! I discovered a few rich veins of gemstones in a hidden tunnel within a day's walk northwest into the Whispering Woods. There could be even more gems deeper within. The tunnel branches off into unexplored areas." Nimly digs into his pack and lays out the twelve gems he took from the tunnels. "These are the samples I brought back.” Nimly hands him a copy of the notes he made in an effort to locate the claim using topographical landmarks.
Aric listens intently, nodding as he takes in the information. "These are impressive, Nimly. This is excellent news. The guild will be very interested in exploring these tunnels further. You've done well! We can arrange for a team to investigate and extract the remaining gems. In the meantime, let's appraise these stones and see what we have."
Aric begins the process of appraising the gemstones Nimly collected. He carefully examines each one, noting their quality and potential value. "These are indeed valuable raw gems. The larger ones vary in size and quality. The smallest of the three shows the most potential and is worth 500 gold. The largest is worth 200, and the mid-sized one is worth 150. Each of the smaller gems is of high quality and worth 50 gold each. Altogether, these are worth 1300 gold pieces. The guild would be happy to purchase them from you."
Nimly nods in appreciation. "Thank you, Aric. I am willing to part with seven of the small gems and two of the large gems. Would 850 gold be fitting for those?”
Aric smiles and nods. "That is a fair price for these gems. As per guild policy, your share will be 10 percent of the total cache, once we send a team out with your notes to find and extract the seams." Aric hands Nimly the 850 gold and takes one large gem and seven small gems. "If there isn’t anything else, I will begin making plans for the mining expedition." Aric bows and heads downstairs to his office.
Nimly heads back to the guild clerk. "I am looking to use a workstation. Could you also send a message to Captain Anara for me?"
Eyes alight with curiosity, the clerk nods. "Of course, Master Sparkleshine. What should it say?"
Nimly clears his throat. "Captain Anara, I would like to request an audience regarding the ongoing bandit problem. A mutual friend, Darian of the Silver Stag Inn, has also sent correspondence to you about this matter." Nimly pauses and looks over the note, signing his name at the bottom once it is finished. “That will do nicely. Thank you.”
With a slight bow, the clerk replies, "Consider it done! I’ll ensure Captain Anara receives your note as soon as possible! Workstation three is open for your use."
With the letter sent, Nimly heads to the available workstation and sets out his tools and materials. Thorn curls up beside the desk for a pre-dinner nap. Nimly carefully inspects his remaining small gems and begins to polish them. Thinking of the summoning ritual for Grahl and the gems it will require, Nimly uses his time to make these fit for the occasion.
He spends the next several hours focused on his work, the sound of tools and the sight of sparkling gemstones providing a familiar and satisfying atmosphere. He remains vigilant, ready to respond if he hears back from Captain Anara or if someone else needs his attention.
As the day turns to evening, Nimly decides his small gems are worthy of their task. He meticulously stores away his gemcutting tools and tidies up his station. While he is gathering his things, he sees his pliers and looks closely; dried blood is visible near the pivot point. He ponders the worn tool and the unconventional use it endured the day before. He stands and makes his way to the guild basement, approaching the quartermaster.
A distracted dwarf is busy behind the counter cataloging books. Nimly coughs. “Excuse me? I’m in need of a few basic supplies. My pliers have come to the last of their days, I fear. I could also use a simple and sturdy knife. Would those be available here?”
Caught by surprise, the dwarf knocks over a bucket of loose gears as he turns around. “What? Oh, um… yes, hang on! Wait, you need… let’s see.” He stares around himself, looking terrified of the workspace. “This… isn’t really my department. Hang on.” He roots around for a few moments and comes up with a small plain knife in a sheath, and a pair of lightly used pliers. “Would this do for ye?” He asks with a hopeful expression.
Nimly blinks. “Yes. Yes, those are exactly what I need.” Nimly takes the tools. “You are most helpful… do you need any help with that?” Nimly looks at the chaotic mosaic of gears strewn across the floor.
The dwarf’s face goes a bit pink. “No, ahem, no help necessary. Anything else?”
Nimly backs away, giving a smile and a bow. “Nothing at all. Good day.” As he climbs the stairs to the main floor, Nimly says a short prayer of thanks to Grahl. Thorn joins his side once more and squeaks. “I know the expression is short on gears, but I think this problem was too many gears.”
On the way out, Nimly pauses and returns to the front desk. "Hello again. I'm interested in buying a house in Everlund. Could you tell me who I might talk to about purchasing property?"
The clerk considers the question for a moment. "Of course, Nimly. For purchasing property in Everlund, you should speak with one of the local real estate offices. One well-known agency is Everlund Estates, located up near the Silverymoon gate. They have a good reputation for helping newcomers and residents find homes. Another option is Northbank Realty, situated close to the northeastern corner of the city. Both should be able to assist you with finding and purchasing available property around here."
Nimly considers his options. "Thank you for the information." Jotting down the location of Northbank Realty, Nimly sets out to find and introduce himself to Captain Anara. Thorn stays nearby, refreshed from his mid-afternoon nap. Recalling the various places she might be, Nimly decides to start at the Barracks and Armory, where city guards and officials coordinate their efforts to maintain order and safety.
Upon arrival, Nimly makes his way to the front desk. A tall, raven-haired elf with dreamy hazel eyes is stationed there. "Good day. I’m looking for Captain Anara. Could you tell me where I might find her?"
The elf nods. "Good day to you, too. Captain Anara is currently ‘round behind the barracks, overseeing training exercises. You can’t miss her. Tall, probably scowling, with blue skin and short black hair."
Nimly thanks the elf at the desk. Thorn joins him from a spot beside the door and the two set out in search of this tall, serious-sounding woman. They come upon a group of guards practicing drills under the ever-watchful scowl of the tall woman with piercing gray eyes, blue skin, and short-cropped black hair. Leaning on Thorn, Nimly watches the training exercises being conducted. The Captain observes her drill sergeants as they lead with precision, their commands sharp and clear. The guards respond with disciplined movements, showcasing their training and proficiency.
After about twenty minutes, Nimly sees his moment to have a word. Captain Anara calls for a break, allowing the guards a moment to rest and rehydrate. Nimly walks with Thorn toward the Captain. She watches the gnome and the giant rat approach, and she gives Nimly a short nod of acknowledgement. “Greetings. I see you have something on your mind. How can I help you?”
Nimly nods, “Well met, Captain Anara. My name is Nimly Sparkleshine. I have sent two letters and I trust they have reached you. The first was from Darian at the Stag. It contained a bandit map, which I hope was useful to you. I wasn’t aware of the bandit problem until they jumped me on the road to Everlund a few days ago.”
Captain Anara listens intently, her expression serious. "Ah, Nimly Sparkleshine. Yes, I received them. The map you provided will be very helpful in our efforts to locate and dismantle the bandit operations in the area. Your assistance is greatly appreciated. I commend your bravery for handling those bandits on your own."
Nimly waves a hand and gestures at the giant rat, “It was nothing. Thorn and I were happy to make sure they didn’t ever rob another traveler. We wish to assist in whatever way we can.” Nimly pauses for a moment. “Thorn says he is impressed by the teamwork in your brood.”
Captain Anara gives Thorn a solemn nod. She pauses, considering Nimly’s offer. "If you're willing, there is a task we could use your help with. Scouting out potential bandit hideouts based on the map you provided. Your skills and experience, particularly your knack for discovering hidden locations, would be invaluable in this."
Nimly’s eyes light up, and he nods eagerly. "I'm willing to assist, Captain. I'm here to help. Where shall we start?”
The captain gives a slight smile. "I’ll have you choose an area to investigate based on the map. This will help us gather more information and coordinate our movements. Once you've completed the scouting mission, report back to me with your findings. If all goes to plan, we’ll prepare a raid on the confirmed location."
Captain Anara returns the map to Nimly. "I have made a copy. Here are the locations that need to be investigated. Be cautious and avoid direct confrontations wherever possible."
Nimly accepts the map and mission. "Very good, Captain." He safely stows it away in his pack. He bows and withdraws, leaving her as the recruits begin to drill once more.
The gnome and the rat leave the barracks at around seven in the evening; the sun has set, and it is almost dinner time. With a busy day behind them, they follow the river downstream at a sedate pace, enjoying the night air and the feel of the city at this hour. Ahead, they can see the well lit entrance of the Silver Stag Inn, standing tall and welcoming. While the city is beginning to sleep, the common room won’t get there for several hours yet.
Pushing the doors wide, the pair walk into the noise and smells of light drinking and fine entertainment. The notes of a harp unfold into several quick arpeggios as the musician’s fingers fly across the strings of the tall instrument. Darian spies them as they enter and waves them over. "Welcome back, Nimly. How can I help you this evenin?”
Nimly taps the bar with his nails. "I'd like to request a room for another night for myself and Thorn. Same arrangements as before, if possible. Sleeping in the woods gives this place a run for its money, but I want to stay here out of charity, you understand?” Nimly winks.
Darian beams and pulls a key from behind the bar and hands it to Nimly. "Of course! You won’t find too many pine needles and skunks in your bed, but if you would like more, I will do my best to accommodate." The innkeeper looks at Thorn. “Dinner as well?”
Thorn squeaks and taps his claws on the wood of the inn floor in a few meaningful sequences and looks up at Darian intently. Nimly passes on the message, “Quite right, dinner for both of us. Smoked ham, if you have it. The cheese and fruit platters have been quite a hit. You take such good care of us.” After they both bid Darian good night, Nimly and Thorn head up to their room.
Nimly sets the map out on the desk to study. As dinner arrives, he continues to take notes and plan, making a valiant attempt not to smear ham juice and cheese across his workspace. There are several locations marked:
Location 1: Rocky hills to the northeast of Everlund. Occasional bandit activity and campsites have been reported.
Location 2: An abandoned mine to the northwest of Everlund. Previously used by bandits, but its current status is uncertain.
Location 3: An old tower deep in the woods to the west. Travelers have reported hearing suspicious whispers and seeing smoke from campfires.
Location 4: Ruins of an old fort south of Everlund, rumored to be a bandit stronghold.
Thorn munches through his portion and curls up near the door. Nimly retires to the bed and attempts to calm his mind, painting a clear picture of the tasks he wants to accomplish tomorrow before setting out on their mission. It takes time, but he slowly drifts off to sleep.
Chapter 14 - Reconnaissance and Riches
14th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
As dawn breaks, Nimly and Thorn awaken feeling refreshed. A crisp breeze flows through the opened window, and the sun casts a warm glow about the room. They have a light breakfast in the quiet common room. Nimly looks over at his companion, nearly finished with his cheesy potatoes. "Let's see if your armor is finished. It sure would have come in handy with those wolves!"
As they approach from the road, Nimly sees Ironclad Creations come into view. The workshop is open to the air, supported by large sturdy columns of stone. The columns rise to meet high ceilings, creating a sense of grandness and space, yet the atmosphere inside is anything but airy. Smoke and heat billow out from the openings, creating a hot, sweaty, oppressive environment that would be unbearable for most.
The forge within glows with an infernal heat, casting a flickering orange light that dances across the workshop. The intense heat radiates outward, making the air shimmer. Tools of all shapes and sizes line the walls, meticulously organized and clearly well-used.
Finished items are proudly displayed on sturdy wooden shelves, showcasing Hilda’s craftsmanship. Swords with intricately designed hilts, gleaming suits of armor, and shields emblazoned with detailed insignias catch the eye, each piece a testament to her skills and dedication poured into their creations.
Around the room, half-finished projects clutter the workbenches. There are breastplates awaiting final touches, hilts yet to be attached to blades, and shields that need to be fitted with straps. The sound of metal striking metal fills the air, a constant rhythmic clanging that blends with the roar of the forge.
Hilda herself is a commanding presence in the workshop. Clad in a tight short sleeved tunic and cut off briefs, she moves with the confidence and precision of someone who has mastered her craft. Her short brown curls bounce, staying out of her eyes as she works. She is unbothered by the heat; her face is focused and determined.
Nimly stands for a few moments looking around before Hilda pauses and spots him. "Ah, Nimly! Good to see you again. Come to check on Thorn's barding, I presume?"
Nimly smiles and nods. "Yes, I wanted to see how the progress is going."
Hilda waves him over. "Let’s take a look, shall we?" She leads Nimly and Thorn toward the back of the workshop where Thorn’s armor is being crafted. "As you can see, I’m making good progress. It’s being shaped to fit our furred friend perfectly. I’ve added some metal reinforcements along the chest, shoulders and flanks. Ensuring he retains maximum maneuverability is tricky and it will take more time. It should be ready in a couple more days.”
Satisfied with the armor’s progress and with the latest gem proceeds in his pouch, Nimly decides to pay a visit to Eben, hoping to find new items or potions. Nimly and Thorn make their way through the lively streets of Everlund, heading towards Robes, Rods, and Potions.
They enter, Nimly being greeted by the familiar scent of exotic herbs and magical components. Eben looks up as the door opens, and he smiles. "Welcome back, Nimly. H-how can I assist you today? Looking for something s-specific, or just browsing our selection?"
Nimly looks over the options, “Well, Eben? I am loving this Rod I purchased. Now… what can you offer me for wands and rings?”
With a delighted smile, Eben turns to pull out his wares. “W-wands and rings… yes, let me see.”
Eben elaborately presents the first wand, its surface shimmering with a faint magical aura. "This is the Wand of Magic Missiles," he explains. "It allows you to cast the Magic Missile spell, which will go through almost anything! This powerful tool is priced at 750 gold."
Next, Eben picks up another wand, its surface intricately carved. “Now, this beauty is the Wand of Web," he continues, "It will allow you to cast the Web spell when holding it (save DC15). It has 7 charges, and it regains (1d6 + 1) charges daily at dawn. Beware that if you expend the wand's last charge, (roll a d20, on a 1 the wand crumbles) the wand has a chance to crumble into ashes. Th-this one is priced at 800 gold pieces."
Eben then moves on to the rings. He carefully picks up the first ring, its surface gleaming. "This is the Ring of Protection," he explains. "This ring is imbued with protective magic. While wearing it, you gain, as the ring suggests, a bit more armor and spell avoidance (+1 bonus to AC and saving throws). It requires attunement. Once attuned, the magic of the ring will be in effect as long as you are wearing it. This one is priced at 1500."
Finally, Eben very carefully picks up a ring that seems to shimmer and shift in the light. "Now, this is one of my favorites. It is the Ring of Invisibility," he says in a whisper. "It allows you to turn invisible… at will. Th-this invaluable tool is priced at 20,000 gold pieces."
Eben grins with satisfaction, pleased by the selection he has to offer. “As before Master Sparkleshine, let me know if anything has caught your eye, and if multiple things have, we can m-make a deal.”
Nimly listens as the products being listed climb well beyond his price range, though he can’t pull his gaze away from one item. “Seven charges? Held in place, you say… I’ll take the Wand of Web, please.” He places 800 gold on the counter eagerly.
Eben turns to retrieve the wand from the display case. “Very good choice indeed! Here you are. Do come back again s-soon!”
Nimly, new wand in hand, decides to make a quick stop at the Silver Marches Bank to manage his finances. He turns to Thorn, “Let's go see the banker; no need to go out on the road with riches in hand, eh?” As the bank comes into view, Nimly marvels at its construction.
The Silver Marches Bank stands as an imposing and elegant structure just to the north of the bustling Bell Market. The building's exterior is constructed from finely cut gray stone, giving it an air of stability and timelessness. Tall, narrow windows with runes etched into the stained glass line the front, each window depicting scenes of prosperity in vibrant hues.
A grand set of marble steps leads up to the main entrance, flanked by two statues of imposing lions, symbols of vigilance and protection. Far above the large oak double doors is the bank’s name, proudly displayed in Common, Dwarvish and Sylvan.
Nimly enters and approaches the counter, where a bank clerk stands, ready to assist visitors. She is slim and of medium height, with a prominent bill and obsidian black feathers edged in deep red. "Good day, sir. My name is Truefly. How can I help you today?"
Nimly smiles, setting a few items on her desk. “I'm here to deposit some gold and a few gems, if you can take me on as a customer."
She pulls up a ledger, “Of course! We would be happy to take you on. Let's get you set up with an account. Please provide your name and any identification you have." Within moments, the efficient clerk turns back to Nimly, “Your account is all set up, Mr. Sparkleshine. How much gold and how many gems would you like to deposit today?"
Nimly looks down at the items on the desk, and pushes them across to the clerk, "I'd like to deposit 500 gold pieces, 2 large gems, and 2 small gems.”
The clerk takes a feathery green quill and carefully records the details of the deposit, then provides Nimly with a receipt. "Your deposit has been successfully made. Here is your record of the transaction. Your account now securely holds 500 gold pieces, 2 large gems, and 2 small gems. If you need to make any withdrawals or further deposits in future, just let us know!”
Nimly pushes the receipt back across her desk. "Could you please store my receipt, as well? I wouldn’t care to bring proof of funds with me where I’m going."
The clerk laughs, taking it back with a smile, "Good thinking! Of course, Master Sparkleshine. We'll keep your receipt safely stored here at the bank. If you need to access it or require any proof of your funds, just let us know, and we'll provide the necessary documentation."
Purchases and finances handled, Nimly and Thorn are ready to set off on their scouting mission. Nimly makes a few adjustments to his pack, ensuring it’s as comfortable as possible for the journey. With one last look at the map, the duo head off in search of the abandoned mine.
They cross the familiar bridge over the River Rauvin and travel west for two hours into the forest. Nimly pauses while still in familiar territory to use his cartography skills; he improves the locating map for the Gemcutter’s Guild. From this point, instead of heading south toward the known stream, they orient northwest toward the marked location of the mine.
After several more hours of travel, Nimly and Thorn are able to make out the abandoned mine up ahead in the distance. The area is quiet, with the entrance to the mine partially obscured by overgrown vegetation. Though the mine appears abandoned, upon investigation Nimly and Thorn find multiple sets of footprints leading in and out of the entrance. The footprints vary in size, suggesting a group of people has been using the mine recently. There are deep tracks embedded in the earth that appear to be from heavy laden carts or wagons. Near the entrance, Nimly finds a campfire, still slightly warm. Scattered around it are empty food containers and broken tools.
Nimly turns to Thorn and whispers, “We’d better get to some high ground and set up camp. This place is clearly being used for something.” Looking around, they find a hill back in the woods that provides a clear view of the mine entrance. As the sun dips below the horizon, Nimly and Thorn prepare a rustic camp, and settle in for their stake out. Nimly draws a tic-tac-toe grid in a small patch of dirt with a stick, and the two begin making marks, keeping a watchful eye on the mine entrance all the while.
Time passes and the two companions take turns on watch. After a few hours, on Thorn’s watch, his ears perk up. He hears faint footsteps and the murmur of voices coming from the direction of the mine entrance. He alerts Nimly, indicating that there are humanoids nearby. Quiet and watchful, Nimly and Thorn remain hidden, watching the activity near the mine entrance.
A small group of bandits approach the mine. They are moving crates that appear to contain food, weapons and other supplies, suggesting they are preparing the area for some kind of permanent operation. Nimly counts five bandits while he watches, all of them armed and well-organized.
Throughout the night, the bandits continue their activity working in shifts, some standing guard while the others rest or work inside the mine. The pair watch as one of the bandits prepares basic traps near the front entrance. Nimly takes note of the security measures and records their activity as best he can. They continue their vigil throughout the night.
15th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
With the early light of dawn breaking over the horizon, it begins a steady downpour of rain. The bandit activity has ceased, the mine providing them shelter from the storm. Deciding that enough information has been gathered where they were, Nimly quickly scouts the area above and around the mine. They soon find a concealed secondary entrance to the mine hidden behind dense vegetation. This entrance doesn’t appear guarded and could serve as a potential entry or exit point. There is also a ventilation shaft above the mine that could be used to monitor or perhaps could be used for dropping in small items.
Walking around the perimeter of the mine, Nimly maps out possible escape routes the bandits may use. Toward the north side of the mine, he finds a small hidden supply cache. It is stocked with basic provision and tools. Nimly pulls up the hood of his traveling cloak to combat the weather, and gathering the supply crate in his hands, he nods to Thorn, “Lead the way back to Everlund, my friend.” The pair begin their trek. Careful to avoid the main road, they keep out of sight of any potential bandits headed to or from the mine.
The sun is hard to make out through the rain and fog. Everlund finally comes back into view after their soggy travels around 2pm. The guards in the gatehouse barely stir as Nimly and Thorn make their way into the city through the Silverymoon Gate.
Cold and wet, the pair head straight for the Barracks to give their report to the Captain. Upon arrival, they are directed toward Captain Anara’s office. Nimly knocks, and is promptly invited in. “Nimly, it is good to see you. What did you find?” The captain sits behind a desk that is mostly neat, scattered with a few papers. A bookshelf and a cube-like storage for rolled maps sits behind her.
Nimly removes his cloak, “It’s been a long day already.” He lowers his tired body into an armchair and begins his report. “We scouted the abandoned mine to the northwest. The bandits are using it. I counted five. I watched them set some traps up at the main entrance. I found a secondary entrance, some vents up above, and these basic supplies.” He gestures to the crate beside his chair. Thorn twitches his whiskers and begins a full body shake, scattering water in all directions.
Captain Anara frowns at Thorn before turning her attention back to Nimly. "The supplies you brought back will be helpful. We will plan our raid immediately. Your information about the secondary entrance and their movements will give us a significant advantage. I will mobilize a team as soon as we’re done here.”
Nimly squeezes some of the water from his arm sleeves while he talks, “Thorn and I would like to join that effort. We need some time around town for a few things, but we’ll be ready to go shortly.”
Captain Anara nods solemnly, “We’ll use your information to attack using the cover of darkness. Meet us back here at 7pm.”
Nimly gets to his feet and picks up his sodden cloak, feeling his fatigue shift to vigor at the thought of the upcoming action. “We will be ready!”
Chapter 15 - Action and Attunement
15th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
Conversation concluded, Nimly thanks Captain Anara, redons his cloak and makes his way towards the Silver Marches Bank. He approaches Truefly with a dazzling smile, “Good afternoon! I’d like to withdraw 450 gold, two large gems and two small gems from my personal account.”
Truefly nods with a slightly puzzled look, “One moment please, Mr. Sparkleshine.” She turns and walks toward the vault near the rear of the bank.
While waiting, he looks around. There is a dwarven family a few seats over, discussing the possibility of a loan for a farm. Their children sit restlessly, fiddling with everything within reach. A bit further along is a tall serious woman sitting calmly in long, dark blue robes, talking quietly with a banker. Little is being said and she is nodding with a serious expression. A large package is pushed across the table toward her. After looking at it for a moment, she nods, picking it up and leaving the bank promptly.
Nimly’s attention is brought back when Truefly returns, “Here we are.” She sets the items between them on the desk. “This will leave 50 gold safely in your account. Would you like me to keep your receipt here?”
Nimly stows the items away inside his pack. “Yes, thank you Truefly. Take care.” Outside, looking up at the gray sky, Nimly decides he has plenty of time to run a few errands before nightfall. Flipping through his notebook, he decides to visit Northbank Realty. He turns to look at his friend, “A house of our own wouldn’t be so bad, eh Thorn? Yeah, we would miss Darian… but we could have him over for dinner!”
The pair make their way along the cobbled streets away from the Bell Market. They come to a building nestled between the river and the walls of Everlund, sporting a large sign reading “Northbank Realty” above its door. The building appears to be an old one, repurposed from an old bakery. Several extraneous chimneys jut out from the roof, hinting at its past life. The scent of flour and yeast seems to linger in the air, and the wide, inviting windows still bear the marks of long-removed baking displays.
Inside, Nimly finds a quiet cozy atmosphere. One of the chimneys is indeed still attached to a roaring fireplace, the glow attempting to push through the cold gloom of the day. There are several desks inside, and a few agents are busy with clients and paperwork. A friendly looking half-elf with neatly combed hair notices Nimly and Thorn enter. He quickly drops what he’s doing and approaches, “Good day, sir. Welcome to Northbank Realty. My name is Elaran. How can I assist you today?"
Nimly throws back the hood of his cloak near the door, attempting not to douse anyone with water. “Hello there. I’m Nimly, this is Thorn.” He motions toward his companion. “We are interested in purchasing property here in Everlund.”
Elaran nods eagerly, “Oh yes of course! We have a variety of listings. Come sit down for a minute and we can go over them.” The trio make their way to some chairs positioned around a short table near the fire. Nimly sits, and Thorn eyes the chair before curling up nearer the fire. “Now, what are your needs? We can start there!”
Nimly stretches his legs out and ponders a moment. “I’d like a property in Everlund with plenty of space inside. Perhaps three bedrooms and a workspace? It does not need to have extensive gardens, as I most likely will not have time to keep them up. What do you have, and what are the prices?”
Elaran pulls out a portfolio and flips through a few pages. “I understand. Very good. We have a few properties that might fit your needs." He pauses on one page. "First, we have a spacious townhouse in central Everlund near the Bell Market for 1200 gold. It has three bedrooms, a large common area, a study, and a basement suitable for a workshop.” He turns the book to show Nimly a sketch of the property before continuing.
Flipping a few more pages, Elaran reads, “Next, we have a large apartment across town near the southeast edge of the city for 900 gold. You might adore the open floor plan. It has two bedrooms and one large dedicated room that could be used as a workshop.” He shows Nimly the sketch of this property as well.
Finally, Elaran flips two more pages. “The last option I see fitting your needs is a converted warehouse near the Silverymoon Gate. Now, it may not sound like much, but it has very large open spaces, high ceilings, and multiple storage rooms. We have this one listed for 1500.” He turns to show Nimly the warehouse. “Now, do any of these catch your eye?”
Nimly nods, “I'd like to visit the spacious townhouse in central Everlund. If you have any other options with more than two bedrooms, I would be interested in those as well."
Elaran rises smiling, “Of course, let me show you the townhouse first, and I'll check other listings within that criteria." They move towards the door to leave. With a mighty effort, Thorn pulls himself away from the fire to follow after.
Nestled between the trees on the northwest side of the Bell Market stands a charming two-story townhouse. The little walk leading through the front gate has a few flowers scattered here and there, adding a touch of color. The roof, though weathered and showing signs of age, stands sturdy against the gloomy onslaught of the day. The house is made of stone, giving it a rustic and solid appearance, with ivy creeping up one side. The windows are framed with dark wood shutters that can be closed to keep out the chill.
Just inside the front door, a small entryway offers a cozy place to store cloaks and traveling gear. The main floor exudes warmth, with wooden beams crossing the ceiling and a stone fireplace in the common area. In a small room off to the right, there is a study lined with bookshelves. A kitchen with an old-fashioned hearth is also visible near the back.
A wooden staircase leads up to the second floor, where three bedrooms can be found. Each room has a window that offers a view of the surrounding cityscape. The master bedroom includes a small balcony overlooking the Bell Market below. The basement, accessible from the kitchen, provides ample space for a workshop or storage.
After the tour is concluded, Elaran gives Nimly a moment before proceeding. “This is the only house on the market with three bedrooms currently. What do you think?”
Nimly looks around the house and back to the realtor. "Elaran, this has given me much to think about. I am interested, but with the price, I will need to give it more thought."
Elaran nods agreeable, “I understand, Nimly. Purchasing a home is a significant decision, and it's important to take your time. If you have any questions or need more information, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help whenever you're ready.” The half elf hands Nimly a small square of parchment with the Northbank Realty logo on it, along with a short description and sketch of the townhouse listing.
With the raid this evening and the new home possibilities weighing on his mind, Nimly makes his way to the Gemcutters Guild. He sells them the remaining two large unworked gems and the two small unworked gems he has, as well as one large worked gem he’s been holding onto. He happily walks away with another 950 gold on his person.
Rubbing his hands together in excitement, Nimly turns to Thorn. “Let’s go get that Ring of Protection. We’re going to need it tonight!” Nimly enters Robes, Rods, and Potions and walks up to Eben. “Good day, my friend. Do you still have that Ring of Protection you showed me?”
Eben’s lips turn up into a dazzling smile. “Yes, of course, the Ring of Protection, 1500 gold!” He turns, selects the item, and hands it to Nimly.
Nimly places a pre-counted bag of 1500 gold on the counter and takes the ring with a big grin.
Errands concluded, Nimly and Thorn find a peaceful grassy spot near the River Rauvin. The water’s flow creates a calming atmosphere, perfect for focusing on attuning to the new ring. Nimly sits comfortably by the riverbank, taking a few moments to relax and clear his mind. He slips the Ring of Protection onto his finger and closes his eyes, focusing on the magical properties of the ring. As he concentrates, he feels a warm sensation spread through his hand and up his arm, indicating that the ring's magic is beginning to attune to him.
After an hour and with the ring properly attuned, Nimly shifts his focus to preparing for the upcoming raid on the bandit hideout. He makes sure that he and Thorn are focused and ready for the mission. As dusk approaches, Nimly returns to the Barracks to find Captain Anara addressing her team.
"Everyone, gather ‘round. We're about to move out. Let's make sure we execute this raid effectively and safely." Captain Anara nods to the approaching gnome. “Nimly has already scouted out our approach. He will lead us; let's be off.”
As night falls, Nimly and Thorn lead the party out of Everlund, across the River Rauvin and deep into the woods. As they get close to the abandoned mine, Captain Anara calls for a halt. She whispers, "We will use the secondary entrance Nimly discovered to surprise the bandits. Everyone, stay alert and follow the plan."
Nimly looks to Captain Anara and nods with determination. They move through the forest, avoiding the main path and staying as quiet as possible. After a stealthy approach, the raiding party reaches the secondary entrance hidden by dense vegetation.
The Captain nods at Nimly, “”I’ll take the lead from here. Good work.”
Nimly casts Guidance on himself, feeling a surge of divine insight that enhances his readiness. With the spell in place, he prepares to follow the raiding party into the mine, ready to assist in any way necessary.
The interior is dimly lit, with flickering torches casting eerie shadows on the walls. The air is cool, damp, and smells as caves sometimes do. Distant voices can be heard echoing through the tunnels. The party advances, staying alert. They come across a large cavern where several bandits are gathered, discussing their plans and moving supplies. The party takes cover behind some rocks and observes the scene. The cavern is large, about 100 feet across and 15 feet high with a second tunnel leading out near the far end. It is dimly lit by flickering torches that cast dancing shadows on the rough stone wall.
As Nimly and the raiding party position themselves, they observe three bandits standing near the center of the cavern, engaging in idle conversation.
“Have you noticed how much better this camp is compared to the last one?” the first bandit remarks, his voice tinged with satisfaction. He stands against a wooden crate, casually inspecting his sword.
“Absolutely,” the second bandit agrees, adjusting his leather armor. “The old camp was damp and cramped. Always felt like the walls were closing in on me. Here, we’ve got space to breathe and move around.”
The third bandit, a wiry man with a scar across his cheek, nods. “Not to mention the supplies. We’re much better stocked here. The boss really outdid himself with this place. Plus, being closer to the main road means more potential targets for us.”
The first bandit chuckles. “Yeah, and I’m not missing those nights of sleeping on wet ground. This cavern may not be luxurious, but it’s a step up for sure.”
Their conversation continues, punctuated by occasional laughter, as they remain blissfully unaware of the raiding party positioning themselves around the cavern, ready to strike at Captain Anara's signal.
Anara raises her hand, and the team prepares their weapons.
Chapter 16 - Anguish and Arrests
15th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
At Captain Anara’s signal, her team begins to move forward, most of them in position to take the gathered bandits by surprise.
Roll Initiative.
—-—-
Surprise Round
Captain Anara's piercing gaze locks onto the Bandit Leader, her eyes narrowing as she whispers words of a dark incantation. The air around her hums with power as the Dissonant Whispers invade the leader's mind. In sudden agony, he clutches his head, eyes wide as the psychic force assaults his thoughts, leaving him reeling and desperate to escape the torment.
Meanwhile, Nimly, ever quick with his wand, aims the Web at the largest cluster of bandits. With a flick of his wrist, a thick, sticky web shoots forth, enveloping Bandits 1, 2, and 3 in its grasp. The bandits struggle against the webbing, but it clings to them relentlessly, holding them fast.
Thorn, with a feral snarl, pounces on Bandit 5. His sharp teeth sink deep into the dwarf's leg, eliciting a cry of pain. The dwarf stumbles, his bravado faltering as Thorn's bite takes its toll.
Not far off, Guard 2 moves with deadly precision, his spear thrusting forward to strike at Bandit 2. The blow is swift, but the impact is unmistakable, leaving the bandit gasping in shock and pain. At the same time, Guard 4 charges with fierce determination, her sword slicing through the air with practiced ease. She strikes true, her blade biting into the flesh of Bandit 1, the force of the blow driving him back.
Round 1
Captain Anara’s voice rings out with Vicious Mockery. Her words, laced with all the derision she can muster, cut straight into the Bandit Leader’s mind. The words twist and turn, sapping his resolve and causing him to falter. While the grip on his weapon tightens, his confidence wavers.
Nearby, Thorn continues his relentless assault. With a feral snarl, he lunges at Bandit 5, his sharp teeth sinking deep into the dwarf’s calf once again. The bandit cries out in pain as Thorn tears through muscle and sinew, leaving a gaping wound that bleeds profusely. Nimly looks over towards Thorn’s cowering bandit, and setting his sights, flicks his wrist, launching an Eldritch Blast at Bandit 5. The bandit takes the blow to his gut, letting out a surprised oomph from the impact.
Guard 2 moves up swiftly to assist Guard 4 in the effort to subdue Bandit 3. With a textbook swing of his blade, he strikes true, his sword biting into the bandit’s side, drawing a deep gash. Guard 4 locks his sights on Bandit 1, finding his moment to strike. His blade arcs through the air with deadly precision, slicing through his defenses and dealing an incapacitating blow. Bandit 1 crumples to the ground as darkness claims him.
The Bandit Leader, his eyes blazing with fury, lunges at Captain Anara with all his might, but his attack is clumsy, his focus clouded by her mocking words. Anara sidesteps his wild swing and the Bandit Leader’s blade cuts through nothing but the air.
Stuck fast in the web, Bandit 2 struggles in vain. The sticky strands cling to him, refusing to let go. Bandit 3 also strains against the web’s grasp, but his struggles only seem to entangle him further. Bandit 4, in growing desperation, sees an opening and swings at Guard 4. His blade swings wide, missing its mark. Bandit 5 takes a wild stab at Thorn, but the nimble rat is too quick. The blade swishes through the air harmlessly as Thorn dances back, his eyes gleaming with fierce determination.
Guard 1, shaking off the remnants of his initial surprise, plunges forward into the fray near Thorn. Guard 3, regaining her footing, rushes forward to assist Guard 2, her blade ready to strike. Meanwhile, Guard 5 delivers a powerful blow to Bandit 4. His sword connects with a satisfying thud, the force of the strike driving deep into the bandit’s leather armor, leaving a bloody wound.
Round 2
As she narrowly dodged the last swing, Captain Anara casts Heat Metal as a level 4 spell on the Bandit Leader’s scimitar. The metal glows red hot, and with a howl of pain, he flings the weapon away, his hand seared by the intense heat. Nimly, seizing the opportunity, launches another Eldritch Blast at the Bandit Leader. The blast strikes true, causing the Bandit Leader to stagger further. Thorn pounces again on Bandit 5. His teeth sink into the dwarf’s arm, delivering a vicious bite. The bandit cries out in pain, struggling to fend off the relentless rat.
Guard 2 steps forward and targets Bandit 2, who remains hopelessly restrained by the webs. With a swift slash, the guard’s blade finds its mark, and blood begins to drip from the bandit's shoulder. Guard 4, seeing Guard 5 engaged with Bandit 4, moves to assist. With a well aimed strike, he adds to the attack, his sword cutting deep into the flagging bandit.
Bandit 2, desperate to escape, critically fails his saving throw. Not only does he stay stuck fast in the web, but in his frantic struggle, he loses one of his boots to the sticky strands, further hindering his movement. Bandit 3, gritting his teeth, tries once again to break free, but the web holds him firm, keeping him trapped and vulnerable. Bandit 4, in a last-ditch effort, swings his weapon at Guard 3. His strike lands, cutting into the guard. The guard remains standing during the assault, determined to see the fight through. Bandit 5 swings wildly at Thorn, but he is too quick, ducking under the blow with ease.
Guard 1 moves up beside Thorn, his sword flashing as he strikes at Bandit 5. The blade finds its target, slashing out across the bandit’s ribs. Guard 3 takes a position beside Guard 2, swinging his sword at Bandit 3, but his attack goes wide, missing the mark. With a mighty heave, Guard 5, brings his sword down on Bandit 4. The blow is powerful, leaving the bandit lying unconscious on the ground.
Round 3
Captain Anara shimmers slightly, her voice ringing out with authority as she yells, "Stop this at once!" As she shouts, Raulothim's Psychic Lance originates from her forehead and streaks toward the Bandit Leader. He tries to resist, but his mind falters, and the lance pierces his skull with devastating force. The Bandit Leader crumples to the ground, whimpering, utterly incapacitated.
With their leader down and no hope left, the remaining bandits lose their will to fight. The battle ends as the subordinates surrender, some lying where they’ve fallen, others still struggling in vain to free themselves from the unyielding webs.
—-—-
Captain Anara sheathes her sword. “Good work, everyone. Let's secure the area and gather any intelligence or supplies we can find." Nimly dismisses the web as the guards move to secure the defeated bandits. He looks to Captain Anara for further instruction.
She looks around the chamber. Some guards are tending wounds, while others are securing prisoners. "Alright, listen up! We're going to split into two groups. Three of you will remain here gathering information from the captured bandits. The other two will join Nimly and myself in exploring the mine further. We need to be thorough and careful." She turns back to Nimly. "You two will scout ahead while we finish binding the prisoners. Let's see what else this place is hiding."
Nimly reaches out to Thorn to arrange their next move. Let's move ahead cautiously. Stay about 30 feet ahead of me and keep to the shadows. Alert me if you sense any danger.
Thorn chitters in response, understanding the goal. The giant rat's form seamlessly melds into the darkness as he moves silently down the passage, his keen senses attuned. Nimly follows, moving slowly and keeping pace, his eyes and ears alert for any signs of trouble. The rest of the party gives them a good lead and follows after.
The scent of earth and decay is thick in the air, mingled with a faint metallic tang from the remnants of the mining operations. It's a heavy, cloying smell that clings to their clothes and fills their lungs with each breath. The deeper they go, the more stagnant the air becomes. The sounds of their footsteps echo softly off the damp stone walls. Thorn’s ears twitch, and he mentally alerts Nimly to a faint, arrhythmic tapping coming from a side tunnel. The sound is barely audible, a distant echo from deeper within.
As they move forward, Nimly notices a barely visible crack in the wall that could be an entrance to a hidden chamber. He channels his magic with a subtle movement of his hands and casts Mold Earth. Neat, blocky script appears on the wall in glowing green letters: “Investigate possible side chamber.”
The pair can still hear the sound emanating from the side tunnel. Turning his attention back to the ground at his feet, Nimly uses Mold Earth again to create a green arrow pointing towards the source of the tapping. "Alright, Thorn, let's see what's making that noise. Stay alert." Thorn chitters softly and resumes his stealthy advance, moving 30 feet ahead of Nimly. They maintain a slow, deliberate pace.
As they move forward, the tunnel walls close in, the space becoming more confined and claustrophobic. The ground underfoot is uneven, a mixture of loose gravel and hardened earth, making each step a cautious endeavor to avoid stumbling. The occasional wooden support beams creak ominously, their age and disrepair a silent testament to the dangers of the abandoned mine. The arrhythmic tapping grows louder as they progress, echoing off the stone walls.
Nimly and Thorn continue, their senses on high alert. As they get closer to the source of the tapping, Thorn mentally alerts Nimly that they are nearing something significant. With an Insight check (15), Nimly is fairly sure that the tapping sound is the result of multiple picks and other heavy tools being used to remove rock.
Nimly sends out a mental command. Come back to me and we’ll approach together. As Thorn returns, Nimly casts Silent Image, conjuring a 10-pound rat with the stylized mountain of Grumbar tattooed on either side of its ribs and on its forehead. The conjured rat waddles nonchalantly ahead, making no effort to remain unseen. Nimly and Thorn follow quietly, keeping the rat image in sight as they move closer to the source of the mining activity. The sound grows louder, the overlapping rhythm of the taps causing a continuous din in the tunnel.
On the whole feeling optimistic, Nimly and Thorn continue forward. The rat image waddles ahead as a possible sign of good will to any creature that would see the markings of Grumbar as favorable. The curiosity in them burns. Their steps are careful and slow, sure and cautious.
As they move down the tunnel, they notice the faint glow of torchlight ahead, casting flickering shadows on the walls. They finally reach a wider chamber where a small group of dwarves are wearily at work, frazzled and beaten down. The miners are chiseling away at the walls, extracting an unfamiliar type of ore or crystal. They have ragged clothes and their demeanor suggests they might be captives, engaged in forced labor. Among the miners, a couple of armed bandits can be seen, keeping a bored eye on the workers. They do not seem to have noticed Nimly yet.
Nimly mentally instructs Thorn to stay close and hidden, ready to engage from ambush if the situation turns hostile. The gnome, remaining out of sight as best he can, dismisses both previous uses of Mold Earth. He then refocuses his magic, casting Mold Earth twice to transform the tunnel floor ten feet ahead of him. Smooth gray crystal protrusions emerge, creating difficult terrain and potentially hindering any approach from that direction.
Nimly stands up and walks to the left to be centered in the tunnel and clearly visible, with Thorn still hiding nearby. He calls out in a loud high tenor. “Ahoy there, you rascals! I am Nimly, and I am making a citizen’s arrest on behalf of all the downtrodden peoples of Faerûn. I will take you both into custody now and personally transport you both to Everlund to face justice for the crimes of kidnapping and slave trafficking. Lay down your weapons, please. No one needs to get hurt.”
The chamber falls silent as the bandits and miners turn to face Nimly. The bandits, momentarily stunned by the sudden appearance and declaration, quickly recover and exchange glances. “Eh, whaddya want there, and on o’s authority?”
Nimly puffs up his chest. "It is a citizen’s arrest! I have the moral authority to right wrongs wherever I find them. As to why I’m here, I believe that Grumbar has led me here to stamp out the rot within the mining community. You both will be an example. I haven’t got all day. Let’s go or we gotta do this the hard way." (intimidation:4)
The bandits exchange uncertain glances, clearly unsettled by Nimly's confidence and the confusing invocation of Grumbar. However, the tension in the air suggests that they are not entirely convinced to surrender without a fight. One steps forward, his grip tightening on his weapon. "You think you can just walk in here and take us down? We've got orders, and we're not about to let some gnome stop us!"
Roll Initiative.
—-—-
Round 1
Nimly raises his hand, fingers crackling with arcane energy. With a swift, graceful movement, he casts Eldritch Blast. The bolt of force cuts through the dim light of the cavern. The spell slams into the chest of the nearest bandit. The impact drives the bandit back, his breath escaping in a pained gasp as he stumbles, clutching his chest, the force wracking his body.
Thorn remains hidden off to one side of the tunnel, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. He waits, muscles coiled like a spring, ready to strike as soon as the brutes venture closer, his patience as deadly as any blade.
Bandit 1, teeth bared in a grimace of pain and fury, struggles to close the distance between himself and the gnome. Each step is a grueling effort, the uneven ground beneath him shifting treacherously, turning his advance into a slow, arduous ordeal.
Bandit 2 draws his light crossbow with a fluid motion. He takes aim, his eyes narrowing as he focuses on Nimly. The bolt flies from the crossbow with a sharp twang, whistling through the air towards its target. But Nimly, light on his feet, twists just in time; the bolt misses him by mere inches and clatters harmlessly off the cavern wall behind him.
Round 2
Nimly's eyes narrow, the shadows of the cavern reflected in their depths as he focuses on Bandit 1. With a swift motion he conjures another Eldritch Blast. The spell streaks through the air, striking the bandit square in the chest. The impact is devastating, sending the bandit hurtling backward, his body crashing against the unforgiving stone of the cavern wall. He slumps to the ground, unconscious.
Thorn chitters with anticipation before launching himself forward in a blur of fur and fury. The giant rat meets Bandit 2 head on, sinking his teeth deep into the man's leg. The bandit cries out from pain and terror.
Desperation flashes in Bandit 2’s eyes as he struggles to fend off the relentless assault. He swings his scimitar at Thorn, his grip tight with fear; the blow is hasty and wide, slicing through empty air as Thorn deftly dodges to the side.
Round 3
With a calm, practiced motion, Nimly flexes his fingers, gathering the dark energy once more. The air hums with latent power as he focuses on Bandit 2, the shadows seeming to thicken around him. With a swift flick of his wrist, the Eldritch Blast streaks forth, a beam of force cutting through the dim light like a bolt from the abyss.
The blast strikes Bandit 2, the impact so powerful it lifts him off his feet. The bandit’s eyes widen in shock as he’s hurled backward, his body slamming into the cold, hard ground with a sickening thud. The force of the blow leaves him motionless, the fight drained from his body. He lies still, his chest rising and falling in shallow breaths, his strength sapped, as he joins his fallen comrade in the dust of the cavern floor.
Nimly lowers his hand, the last remnants of the spell dissipating into the air.
—-—-
The sound of running steps echo through the chamber as Captain Anara and the two guards catch up to Nimly and Thorn.
Chapter 17 - Dwarves and Deliverance
15th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
Murmurs of freed captives echo through the cave as Captain Anara and her guards approach. She pauses, looking around, “Nimly, what happened here?”
Nimly takes a moment to catch his breath and then turns to her, "Captain Anara, before the combat started, I saw a group of miners working under the watchful eye of these two.” He motions to the unconscious figures. “I offered to take them into custody, but they weren’t having any of it; Thorn and I managed to incapacitate them. The miners were being forced to extract an odd ore from this tunnel. "
She listens intently, her expression stern and appreciative of the pair's efforts. "Good work. Let's secure the area and gather any information we can from the bandits and miners." Captain Anara turns to the rest of the party and begins issuing orders. "Keep an eye out. Secure these two and make sure they can't cause any more trouble. We'll need to interrogate them to find out what's going on here."
Nimly, seeing the room before him well in hand, leaves with Thorn to return to the crack in the wall for further investigation. On closer inspection, Nimly notices slight tool marks around the edges, suggesting that someone may have attempted to widen it or use it as a hidden entrance. There is no obvious mechanism indicating a door or some other way to explore into the crack.
Nimly tells Thorn to stay put and be on alert for any danger. He then focuses his magic and casts Earth Glide. He places his hands on the stone wall and feels the magic take hold, allowing him to phase through the solid rock. He moves carefully, feeling the texture of the stone around him as he passes through the barrier. He moves at a slow walk and emerges in a hidden chamber. The area is small, only about 15 feet by 15 feet, with a low 5 foot ceiling. It is dimly lit by faintly glowing crystals embedded in the walls, casting a soft, eerie light.
Peering around, Nimly performs an arcana check (arcana:15) to assess the chamber for traps or objects that might hold magical energy. He finds a small wooden chest off in the corner covered in dust. It glows with a faint magical residue, suggesting it might be protected by some minor spell. Ancient mining tools are scattered around, some partially buried in dirt on the chamber floor; none of these have arcane energy. There are strange markings on the walls that resemble runes or symbols, possibly indicating something of historical significance; again, none of these hold magical resonance. The glowing crystals are imbued with a great deal of elemental magic, though the nature of that energy is unclear.
Nimly pokes through the mining equipment until he finds a serviceable pickaxe. The tool is heavy and awkward. Nimly swings it over and over, the work slow and arduous. He manages to widen the crevice to the tunnel slightly, the opening now big enough for him to squeeze through. It will take more work for the passage to accommodate larger forms than a gnome.
The chamber and crystals on his mind, Nimly makes his way back to talk with the freed captives. He slowly approaches the group of hill dwarves, who appear relieved to see him and the rest of the party handling the situation. "Greetings, friends. My name is Nimly Sparkleshine. We’ve taken care of the bandits, and you’re safe now. Can you tell me what happened and why you were being held here?"
One of the older dwarves, with a weathered face and a long, braided beard, steps forward to speak. "Thank ye, Nimly. We were captured by these bandits and forced to mine for some kind of special crystals they were after. They said it was valuable, but we didn’t understand its purpose. They threatened us and used the same crystals to keep us in line."
A younger dwarf steps up, "Aye, they kept talking about some powerful person or group they were working for. We never saw anyone else, just the bandit leader who’d come by now and then, and two goons he would leave here to guard us."
Nimly frowns, thinking of the mined crystals and where they could be now. “Do you know how the crystals were used to maintain control of you?”
The old hill dwarf continues, "Aye, those crystals in the walls weren’t just for light. They had some kind of enchantment on them. Whenever we tried to resist or escape, the crystals would emit a painful shock or make us feel disoriented. The bandits had some kind of device or spell they used to activate the crystals remotely.” He shrugs, “It was enough to keep us in line."
The younger adds, "We didn’t have much choice. Those crystals made sure of that. We heard the bandits talking about how they were tapping into the earth's natural magic to power them. Some kind of dark magic, I reckon."
Nimly listens to this troubling account and nods. “"Where do you folks call home?"
The older miner's face softens with a mix of relief and a bit of sadness as he responds. "We're from a small settlement called Stonehollow, deep in the hills north of Silverymoon. It's a tight-knit community. We were on our way looking for new mining and settlement opportunities in the hills north of Everlund when these bandits captured us."
Eyes bright, the younger dwarf puts a hand on the other miner’s shoulder, "Aye, Stonehollow's not far, but it feels like we've been away for ages. We miss our families and just want to get back to them."
Nimly nods firmly, “I think I can speak for the Everlund militia and I do speak for the Gemcutters Guild. How can we help you get home?” Nimly carefully observes the group of hill dwarves (perception:16) in an attempt to discern who their leader is. Of the five, the one who spoke first appears to be the oldest, and speaks for the rest. "You, old one, what is your name?"
The older miner straightens up, a hint of pride in his eyes as he responds. "Name's Thrain Ironfoot. I've been leading this group of miners for as long as I can remember. We're grateful for your help, Nimly."
Nimly reaches into his pack and pulls out 50 gold, handing it to Thrain. "Here is a gift from the Gemcutters Guild. We will provide an escort for you back to Everlund. Hopefully, from there, you will find your way on a path that lifts your hearts."
Thrain's eyes widen in gratitude as he accepts the gold. "Thank you, Nimly. This means a lot to us. We'll make sure to put it to good use. Having an escort back to Everlund is most appreciated. Your kindness won't be forgotten.”
Nimly bows respectfully and withdraws, turning his attention to Captain Anara and her guards as they proceed with the interrogation. The Captain, an imposing figure, stands silently observing, allowing her soldiers to take the lead. The bandits are bound and kneeling before them, both glaring defiantly at their captors, their jaws set in stubborn defiance.
The air is thick with tension as one of the soldiers steps forward, his voice low and menacing. “You’ve been keeping these dwarves as slaves,” the soldier begins, his tone dripping with contempt. “And you thought you were going to just walk away? Think again. Start talking, or we’ll make sure you regret every remaining moment of your miserable lives.”
Both bandits hold their ground, their glares. The first bandit, his eyes hard and unflinching, meets the soldier’s gaze with a sneer. “Ye think the likes o’ you can scare us?” he spits, his voice steady. “Eh, we’ve faced worse than a few angry guards, ain’t we.”
The tall, broad-shouldered soldier with a scar across his cheek, steps closer and his expression darkens. “Your arrogance is going to cost you. We know you’re part of something bigger. The likes of you aren’t in charge. Who’s running this operation, and what are they doing with those crystals?”
As the soldiers press in, the defiance in one bandit’s eyes begins to waver. His companion remains resolute, but the second bandit starts to shift uncomfortably, glancing nervously between the guards and his comrade.
“Wasting yer time,” the first bandit says coldly, his voice dripping with disdain. “Even if we tol’ ya, it wouldn’t change a damn thing, y'hear.”
The first soldier steps forward, grabbing the defiant bandit by the collar and pulling him close, the tension in the air becoming palpable. “You’re going to tell us everything,” the soldier growls, his grip tightening, “or you’ll be the first to fall, here and now, followed by your operation.”
As the soldier tightens his grip, the second bandit, now visibly trembling, can no longer withstand the pressure. “It’s the crystals!” the second bandit suddenly blurts out, his voice shaky. “They used enchanted crystals embedded in the walls to control the prisoners! They had a device that activated them, causing shocks and messing with their minds!”
The first bandit turns sharply, glaring at his companion with a look of betrayal, but the soldier holding him tightens his grip, keeping him in place.
The scarred soldier turns his attention to the bandit who spoke, his voice cold and commanding. “And where’s this device now? Who has it?”
The second bandit, now visibly sweating, stammers, “It’s small, portable… one of the higher-ups always carried it. I-I don’t know where it is now, but they usually kept it close.”
Nimly, intrigued by the information, continues to watch the exchange.
The first soldier, still holding the defiant bandit by the collar, looks over at Nimly and nods. “He’s not saying where it is, but we know it’s close.”
Nimly waves Thrain Ironfoot over, hoping the experienced miner might have some answers.
“Thrain,” Nimly begins, “these guards aren’t telling us where they hid the device used to control you through the crystals. Do you have any idea where it might be?”
Thrain nods thoughtfully, recalling his time in captivity. “Aye, Nimly. I remember seeing a small, ornate box. They kept it close. Always brought it out to activate the crystals. I saw them heading towards that small alcove near the back of the mine after using it.” The old dwarf points toward a dimly lit area at the back of the mine, indicating where the device might be hidden.
Nimly turns, and with Thorn by his side, carefully heads toward the dimly lit alcove. Shadows flicker against the rough stone walls, a few tiny spider webs peppering the ceiling above. The air is cool, and the stones smell as damp and moldy as the rest of the cavern. Nimly and Thorn proceed cautiously, searching the alcove for any traps that may lie in wait, as well as the ornate box described by Thrain (investigation:10).
The light is dim, and the task challenging, however Nimly uncovers loose stones near the far wall of the alcove. Moving them aside, he finds a small compartment. The dim light flickers off a small silver box. Veins of gold run through the sides of the box, and adorned on the lid is a small glittering fire opal.
There are no visible traps and with a hurried arcana check (arcana:12), Nimly senses only a faint magical aura coming from the box itself. He concludes this is most likely from the device inside. The gnome cautiously picks up the ornate box and slips it into a pocket, ensuring it is safely secured.
He takes one last look around the alcove, and makes his way back to Captain Anara. “I found the device used to control the miners. It was hidden in a small compartment behind some rocks. I'd like to keep studying it, and figure out exactly how it works."
Captain Anara thinks a moment, then nods, “Understanding how this device works could be crucial for opposing the bandits in the future. Be sure to keep me informed on your progress.”
Chapter 18 - Caverns and Crystals
15th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
With the bandits captured and dwarves freed, Nimly decides his next course of action. Turning to Captain Anara, he begins, “I keep thinking about those strange crystals and how they work. I would like to remain behind and try to figure them out. I talked to Thrain, and the dwarves would like to return with you to Everlund, as they are in need of an escort. Hopefully, this will not be an imposition.”
The Captain nods. "We'll make sure the miners reach Everlund safely, and you can catch up with us once you've made your discoveries. Take care, and may the Moonmaiden be on your side." She makes preparations to leave, with the tall soldier leading the way followed by the dwarfs in a tight group. Captain Anara and the other soldier follow after, each with a firm hand guiding a bound bandit.
As the group departs, Nimly and Thorn return to the hidden cavern. Inside, Nimly focuses his mind and channels his magical energy, following the intricate steps of the summoning ritual he knows well. With practiced precision, he utters the gnomish and Terran incantations. Weaves of arcane energy form the outline of the altar yet to be and the gems in his hands glow faintly in response. Using Mold Earth, Nimly creates a pedestal and a vessel at the center of the circle.
The air shimmers with translucent energies as the sphere of rock on the pedestal glows with a gentle light, casting shadows that dance across the chamber. Grahl’s essence takes control of the shape, his gaze shining through the embedded gems. The eyes move as the elemental adjusts the vessel, until the gems lock onto Nimly and blink slowly.
Nimly makes a sweeping bow, “Grahl, thank you for answering my call. I have found something distressing and wish to direct your attention to it. The crystals before you contain some kind of dark magic that can be used to control people."
Grahl’s form shimmers and the pieces they are made of constantly shift and re-arrange. After the earth elemental looks around, they turn their focus on Nimly, "Hello, my loyal gnome.” He pauses a moment and then continues in a steady, dusty rumble, “Such artifacts are not to be trifled with lightly. Their power can corrupt the hearts of even the most steadfast souls. They hold within them the essence of manipulation.”
Nimly looks closer at one of the crystals. “Do you know of a way to purify them?”
There is a silence for a long moment before Grahl replies, “To purify these crystals, one must delve into the depths of their darkness and confront the shadow within. Only by facing the darkness head on can one hope to banish it."
Nimly ponders the daunting task, "Is purifying them a worthwhile goal, or should I attempt to destroy these so they will not hurt anyone else?"
Grahl's words are measured, emphasizing the weight of the decision. "Both options have their risks, and the choice is yours, young one. It should not be made lightly."
With a long look at the crystals, Nimly asks, "How can I safely remove them from the cavern wall?"
Grahl's voice resonates through the small chamber as they offer guidance. "First, ensure that you are adequately protected against any potential backlash from the crystals' magic. Next, approach the crystals with reverence and respect, acknowledging their power while remaining steadfast in your resolve to remove them."
Nimly looks from Grahl to the wall. He uses Mold Earth to write “Reverence & Respect” in flowing script on the ground in front of the crystals. He then picks up the pickaxe and attempts to pry a crystal out of the wall (athletics:natural 20).
Nimly's unorthodox approach pays off as he methodically works to pry the crystal from the wall. With each swing of the pickaxe, the rock gradually loosens its hold on the crystal, until finally it comes free with a soft, echoing resonance.
The gnome turns to Grahl, voice hitched from the strained effort of wielding the pickaxe, "I will attempt to purify some of these crystals. Thank you for your assistance."
The rock patterns of Grahl’s shape shift and churn as he answers, "May your efforts be guided by wisdom and determination, young one. Remember, the path of purification is fraught with peril, but the rewards of success are great."
Nimly nods in agreement, taking a moment to catch his breath. "On another topic, I did receive your sending about delivering the silver stag to you. I have seen it twice in the past few days, though I have not gotten close to it."
Grahl's voice carries an air of intrigue, his answer slow and methodical. "Ah, the silver stag. It is a mysterious creature, often appearing as a harbinger of change or a sign of impending events. Its presence may hold significance beyond what is immediately apparent. Keep a watchful eye on the stag, young one. Its appearances may hold clues to the mysteries that surround you, and its guidance could prove invaluable in the trials that lie ahead."
Nimly offers a low respectful bow to Grahl, “I will take notice of it, and see what I can learn. I have nothing further.”
Grahl's form begins to fade, the air fills with the sound of echoing vibrations, reverberating throughout the chamber. "May your journey be guided by insight and intuition, young one. Until we meet again." With each fading echo, Grahl's presence dissipates, leaving behind only a lingering sense of ancient wisdom and power.
Nimly watches in silence as the last remnants of Grahl's essence vanish, leaving the chamber once again shrouded in stillness. With a deep breath, he gathers his resolve and stares at the stone walls around him heavily burdened with the strange translucent purple crystals. They ebb and pulse with an inner light that hints at their arcane qualities.
Grasping the handle of pickaxe, Nimly hefts it once again, swinging with renewed vigor (athletics:18). He loosens and collects two more crystals. Journal in hand, he takes a moment to investigate the crystals, noting any differences and peculiarities in their appearance. Research finished, Nimly pockets the three crystals.
He sends a mental note to Thorn. I’m almost done, just the chest left to look over. I’ll be deep in concentration for a few minutes. Stay stealthed and watch our backs at least 40 feet away towards the entrance.
Nimly’s eyes scan over the chest, peering at it through the layers of dust (investigation:23). There are no pressure plates or trip wires indicating any traps. There is an aura of magic emanating from the chest. Nimly does not sense any magical traps, and the aura from the chest suggests magical items are contained within.
With a confident smile, Nimly channels his arcane energies, casting Guidance upon himself to enhance his abilities. Feeling the reassuring touch of magic, he takes a deep breath and blows ancient layers of dust from the chest. The hasty cleaning effort reveals a slightly cleaner sturdy chest with intricate carvings etched into its surface.
The deep gnome gently lifts the lid of the chest, which opens with a soft creak, releasing a gentle gust of stale, jasmine-scented air. As he peers inside, a collection of items nestled within the velvet-lined interior catches his eye, each one faintly glinting with magical energy. Nimly closes the lid and carefully lifts the chest from the cavern floor; it is sturdy and weighs about 50 pounds.
Satisfied, Nimly waggles his fingers and casts Earth Glide. He slides through the small opening into the passage. He joins Thorn and smiles. “All done! Our efforts paid off tonight, though I’m not sure what we have yet. Let’s go back above the main entrance and make camp for the night.”
The pair cautiously exit the cave via the back entrance and find a sheltered spot on the forested hill. Nimly and Thorn settle in for the night, their spirits buoyed by the success of their endeavors and the promise of the adventures that lie ahead.
16th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
Light droplets of rain begin to fall as Thorn, last on watch, chitters and snuffles Nimly awake. Blinking sleep from his eyes, Nimly pats his friend and looks up at the sky just as a great arc of purple lightning tears through the clouds. The gnome grimaces, “Oh, lovely.” He gathers his things and makes ready to depart. His Wand of Web glows a little brighter than the evening before, refreshed by the dawn.
The damp duo sets off on their journey back to Everlund. Lightning lights up the eastern sky and booms of thunder echo around them. Deciding to stick to the traveled path back to the main road, they follow the hard-packed dirt path, doing their best to stay out of the increasingly common patches of mud.
Through the sheets of rain, Nimly and Thorn are startled as a majestic silver stag appears on the forest path before them. Nimly’s heart skips a beat as he recognizes the creature from Grahl’s instruction. With a surge of excitement and determination, Nimly realizes that this encounter is more than just a chance sighting.
For a moment, Nimly stands transfixed, captivated by the sight of the magnificent creature. Then, as suddenly as it had appeared, the stag vanishes from view, leaving Nimly and Thorn standing in stunned silence.
Nimly quickly jots down a brief entry next to the last two, noting the location and time of day of the sighting. He makes a mental note to revisit this stretch of road later, when they have more time to explore the significance of the encounter. The notepad is slightly damp, and he folds a layer of cloth over the written page before he puts the journal away.
Nimly and Thorn resume their journey back to Everlund, their steps steady and purposeful as they continue along the path. Though the sighting of the silver stag lingers in Nimly's thoughts, he remains focused on the task at hand, determined to fulfill their mission and return safely to the city.
As they near the long wooden bridge that crosses the River Rauvin, Nimly and Thorn come across signs of a recent skirmish. Nimly’s heart sinks as he surveys the ground around him, seeing discarded pieces of armor and broken weapons scattered about. This could very well be the aftermath of a confrontation between Captain Anara’s party and the bandits they hadn’t yet apprehended. His thoughts shift toward the rescued hill dwarves. He turns to Thorn and gives him a reassuring pat, “Let's hope everyone made it back to Everlund safe. We’ll see soon enough.”
Nimly and Thorn press on, their senses alert for any further signs of danger. They tread carefully through the area, mindful of the potential presence of lingering threats, but also determined to reach Everlund and ensure the safety of their comrades. As Nimly and Thorn finally reach the outskirts of Everlund, a sense of relief washes over them. The bustling city stands before them, its towering walls and busy streets a welcome sight after their journey along the muddy road.
With weary and determined steps, Nimly and Thorn make their way into the city, nodding at the guards on duty as they pass. Though the guards on shift stay inside the guardhouse in an attempt to stay dry, they both nod at the duo, and keep their eyes firmly on the road out of Everlund. This deepens Nimly’s suspicion that the battle before the bridge involved Captain Anara’s group.
The chest in hand, Nimly’s first stop is Silver Marches Bank. The familiar sight of the sturdy building brings a sense of security and routine after their arduous journey. Nimly enters the bank, and hangs his sodden cloak on a peg inside the door. Searching for a familiar face, he walks over and sits in the unoccupied chair across from Truefly. “Hello again, I have an item to deposit.”
Truefly nods, “Nimly! Oh, very well, how can I be of service today?”
He sets the large chest on the desk in front of him and opens it; he takes out a wand, a ring and an orb. Storing these items in his pack, he pushes the empty chest across the table. “Just this today, Truefly. Thank you!”
She takes the chest and smiles warmly, “Of course, Mr. Sparkleshine. Your items and receipt will be here, as usual.”
Nimly rises. “Thank you!” He moves back and picks up his sodden cloak. Once again stepping into the afternoon gloom, he seeks out Captain Anara to catch up on previous events.
Chapter 19 - Sisters and Secrets
16th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
Approaching the guardhouse, Nimly sees the familiar form of Captain Anara standing outside, engaging with some of her soldiers. He and Thorn make their way over. As she concludes her conversation, he calls out, “Captain Anara!” She strides toward them, a smile cracking her stony face, showing a hint of her relief and concern. “Nimly, it is good to see you’ve returned. Let’s go talk in my office, out of the rain and … away from interested ears.”
As they approach the door to the barracks, the Captain looks over her shoulder at Thorn, “You.” She points to a spot away from anyone else. “Shake yourself over there.”
Thorn lowers his head to the ground with a contrite expression. He daintily waddles off twenty feet, shakes himself out vigorously and scampers back, looking up at the Captain with a big toothy grin. The pair gratefully follow, happy to be out of the constant drizzle.
Nimly doffs his cloak and hangs it on a peg. Thorn curls up near the chairs, laying his head on his paws. As they all get settled in Captain Anara’s office, she continues. “On the way back, we encountered a group of bandits that we were able to apprehend. A few of my men were injured, but nothing too serious.”
Nimly listens, nodding, “And the miners? Are they safe?”
Captain Anara waves a hand behind her, “Yes, they are safe. I’ve arranged temporary accommodations for them at the guardhouse until they decide their next steps.”
Nimly lets out a sigh, one that he’s been holding since spotting the signs of the skirmish in the woods. "Most excellent. I did fear for you all, and I am thankful they were in your capable hands.” Nimly stretches his legs out, pondering his next moves. “I rather enjoyed scouting that abandoned mine and would like to continue in that capacity. Do the hills to the northeast still need to be checked out? I’ll head that direction next if you would find that intel useful.”
The Captain nods, “Yes, that area does need to be scouted. I would appreciate reports on any intelligence you gather, however…” Her demeanor shifts, her expression turning darker. "Nimly, there's another matter I could use your help with. A local priestess was recently assaulted by one of my Corporals. This incident has caused quite a stir, and we need someone to investigate and ensure justice is served. Given your skills and sense of fairness, I think you'd be perfect for the task."
Nimly listens closely, the gravity of the situation holding his attention. "I understand, Captain. I’ll look into this matter immediately. Can you provide me with any additional details about the incident or where I might find the priestess?"
The Captain sighs, relief evident in her tone, “"The priestess’s name is Sister Elara. She resides in the Hall of the Moon, just northwest of the Bell Market. She can provide you with more details about what happened. The Corporal’s name is Thorne. He has not been on active duty since the incident, and I do not know his current whereabouts. Please, do what you can to resolve this issue. The community is on edge, and we need to show that justice will be done."
The gnome nods, “I think I’m beginning to understand where to start. For the assault allegations, am I to be an investigator of the event in question, an advocate for one of the parties involved, or am I to be retained in some other capacity?”
Captain Anara considers Nimly's question carefully before responding. "I need you to act as an impartial investigator, Nimly. Your role is to gather all the facts, speak with both parties involved, and any witnesses you can find. We need to understand exactly what happened and why. Once you have all the information, you can provide a recommendation on how we should proceed."
Nimly rises and dons his cloak. “I will begin looking into this immediately. Could you please point me toward one of the guards that has served with the Corporal?” The Captain nods, “Follow me. Sergeant Harkin is currently on duty and I know that he has had Corporal Thorne in his squad.”
The trio make their way through the building toward the front of the guardhouse. Captain Anara leads them over to a soldier leaning on the front desk. “Sergeant Harkin, this is Nimly. On my authority, he needs to ask you a few questions.” With that, she nods and strides back toward her office, quickly vanishing from sight.
Sergeant Harkin looks over the gnome before him. “How can I help?”
Nimly opens his notebook and begins his work. “This is in regards to Corporal Thorne. There was a recent incident involving him and a local priestess. The Captain said you’ve served with him. Can you tell me more about his character, and any details that might aid in my investigation?”
The goliath looks thoughtfully for a moment before responding. “Corporal Thorne has always been a dedicated soldier. He does have a temper. Headstrong, sometimes doesn’t think before he acts. However, I’ve never seen him act like that. The altercation with the priestess surprised those of us who know him.”
Nimly scribbles a few lines. “That is most helpful. I will continue to dig. Did you or anyone here see the incident firsthand? If so, I’d like a list of names of those that could be relied on to give evidence should that be necessary. One more question. Corporal Thorne has not been on active duty since his apparent lapse in judgment. Do you know any establishments that he was known to frequent or any other people he associated with outside the city guard?”
Sergeant Harkin nods, “To my knowledge, only one guard here witnessed part of the incident; his name is Tomlin. It is standard to take one of the Guard off active duty when their conduct has been questionable, but I don’t know where he might be.”
He pauses a moment, writing a few names down and handing the paper to Nimly. The list reads: Private Lora, Private Tomlin, Sister Elara, Hilda, Garin and Darian. “He spends time at the Silver Stag Inn, Ironclad Creations and he sometimes spends free time with Garin, a retired soldier who lives on the outskirts of the city. Lora and Tomlin were on patrol duty in that area, and might have seen something.”
He pauses another moment, looking back toward an office deeper in the guardhouse. “If you want to speak to Lora, she’s in the briefing room. Tall elf, long black hair, can’t miss her. Tomlin should be out patrolling today in quadrant 2; that’s the northwest part of the city. He is a tall Aarakocra, mostly black feathers with a few blue streaks.”
Nimly offers a polite bow and turns, “Thank you for your time, Sergeant. I will go find her now.” He makes his way to the briefing room in the guardhouse, looking for Private Lora. The room is bustling with activity, but it doesn't take long for him to spot her. She is reviewing some documents at a table, her posture attentive and focused.
The gnome approaches, “Private Lora, may I have a moment of your time? I am Nimly, and I'm investigating an incident on behalf of Captain Anara. It involves Corporal Thorne and Sister Elara. Sergeant Harkin mentioned you might be able to provide some information."
Private Lora looks up from her documents, nodding as she listens. "Of course, Nimly. I'll help in any way I can. What do you need to know?"
Nimly pulls out his notebook and pencil, “Could you describe what you saw of the incident and any other details that are worth sharing?”
She nods, sitting back in her chair and crossing her hands in front of her. "I didn't witness the incident, but I heard about it later from other guards. From what I heard, Corporal Thorne had an altercation with Sister Elara in the Hall of the Moon. It seems out of character for him. He's known to have a temper, but he's never been disrespectful to civilians before, especially not a Sister."
Nimly finishes recording her information, “Thank you, Private. I will include your assessment in my findings.” Nimly and Thorn leave the guardhouse and head towards the Silverymoon Gate, alert for any sighting of Tomlin.
The rain has ceased, the sun now an intermittent glimmer through the receding cloud cover. The streets are filled with the usual hustle and bustle of daily life, and Nimly's sharp eyes scan the crowd. After a short while, he spots a likely figure in the distance; Private Tomlin is patrolling near the Hall of the Moon.
Nimly pulls out his notebook as he and Thorn approach the guard. “Good afternoon, Tomlin. May I have a moment of your time? Captain Anara asked me to investigate an incident involving Corporal Thorne and Sister Elara. I was told by Sergeant Harkin you might have seen something. Could you describe what you saw of the incident?”
The Aarakocra stands up a little straighter, “Yes, sir. I was on patrol near the Temple when I heard the commotion. When I got within sight, Corporal Thorne and Sister Elara were in the middle of a heated argument. Thorne was agitated, and things escalated quickly. He grabbed the Sister’s arm roughly and she cried out. I intervened. Thorne let go and stormed off. This was out of character for him… but I’ve seen him talking to some shady characters at the Silver Stag recently. It might be related. The temple attendants might have more information. I wasn’t there for what started the altercation.”
Nimly writes a few more lines before snapping his notebook shut. “Thank you, Tomlin. You may be called on to give an eyewitness account in a more formal setting.”
Tomlin nods in a very serious manner, “Of course, Nimly. I'll be ready to help however I can."
Nimly and Thorn approach the Hall of the Moon, the stones of the temple glowing faintly in the light of early evening. Entering, Nimly seeks out the attendant stationed at the greeting desk. “Excuse me? Is there anyone here at the temple that has experience studying or purifying crystals that are touched by Fel enchantments?”
The attendant’s eyes widen at the mention of the fel enchantments, "May the light of Selûne guide you. You are in the right place. Sister Elara has extensive knowledge in the purification of dark magic and enchanted crystals. I will take you to her."
The attendant leads them through the temple, past serene altars and soft candlelight, until they reach the inner sanctum where the priestess is at a sparse desk, reading a deep blue leather bound tome. "Sister Elara, this is Nimly. He seeks your expertise with crystals touched by Fel enchantments." The attendant bows deeply and leaves the room.
The tall elf looks up, her long silver hair swaying as she focuses on the gnome. Her skin is an iridescent rainbow of color, like the light from a prism scattered onto a moonlit statue. Sister Elara sets down her book, her gray eyes calm, reflecting inner strength and wisdom. "Welcome, Nimly. May the light of Selûne illuminate your path. Please, tell me more about these crystals and how I might assist you."
Nimly nods gravely, "I will gladly tell you the story of these crystals, but I do wish to say before we start that I’m also here for another reason. Captain Anara of the city Guard has asked me to look into the altercation between yourself and Corporal Thorne. If you are able to discuss that at this time, I would like to hear the event as it unfolded directly from you.”
Sister Elara's calm expression shifts slightly, reflecting a mix of sadness and resolve. "Of course, Nimly. This is as good a time as any. The incident took place just outside the temple a few days ago. Corporal Thorne approached me, looking very agitated. He accused me of some wrongdoing, though I didn't understand what he was referring to. When I tried to calm him, he became increasingly aggressive and grabbed my arm forcefully. Thankfully, a guard intervened before it escalated further. It was very unlike him. Corporal Thorne has always been respectful in the past."
Nimly takes notes while Elara speaks. When she is done, he looks up. “That must have been horrid! The explanation for his uncharacteristic behavior yet eludes me, though I will continue to search. You have been so helpful. It may eventually be necessary for you to tell of this event in a more formal setting. I will keep in touch on this matter. Do you have any questions for me or shall we move on to discuss the crystals?”
Sister Elara offers a gentle smile, "Thank you, Nimly. I appreciate your efforts to uncover the truth. I have no questions at the moment. Let us move on to the matter of the crystals. Please, tell me their story and how I might assist you."
Chapter 20 - Investigations and Intrigue
16th of Mirtul, 1492 DR
Nimly and Sister Elara finish discussing her encounter with Corporal Thorne. She runs her hands over her arms and looks around her. “It has been a long day, and the retelling has affected me more than I’d wish. Would you care to walk for a bit? The gardens have always had a calming effect on me.” She motions toward the exit.
She leads Nimly and Thorn out of the inner sanctum and through long sections of halls until they reach a courtyard and garden. In the center is a pond filled with silver fish. They dart through the water, jumping out periodically to shimmer in the moonlight.
Thorn curls up near the pond and watches the fish. Sister Elara and Nimly seat themselves on comfortable benches that offer a view of the sparkling pond and lush gardens. Nimly begins, “I found these crystals while on a raid with the city guard. We went to an abandoned mine northwest of the city based on intelligence of increased bandit activity in the area. After we journeyed into the mine, we rescued a group of enslaved dwarves that were being forced to mine for the bandits. The captive dwarves mentioned being controlled through use of the crystals using this…” Nimly sets the ornate box on the bench. “... which was somehow used to invoke painful shocks and disorienting effects on the dwarves. They were not clear on how it worked. I removed some of the crystals …” Nimly sets the three crystals on the bench “… and I brought them back to Everlund in hopes of understanding the process and goals of the bandits. I would appreciate you sharing your expertise in this, Sister.”
Sister Elara examines the crystals and the control box with a thoughtful expression. She gently glides her hands inches above them. "This is quite troubling, Nimly. The crystals indeed seem to be infused with dark magic, likely the source of the control and torment inflicted on the dwarves. The control box appears to be the device used to channel this magic. To understand and purify these crystals, we must carefully analyze their arcane properties and the nature of the enchantments placed upon them."
She looks up at Nimly, her expression resolute. "I will need some time to study these crystals and the control box. We have texts and tools here in the temple that can aid in this process. In the meantime, I recommend you continue your investigation into Corporal Thorne's behavior. There may be a connection between his actions and the dark magic within these crystals."
Nimly stands. “As you say, Sister. I’ll leave these in your care and I will be in touch soon.”
Sister Elara nods politely, “Thank you, Nimly. Take care, and may Selûne's light guide your path."
Encouraged by her words, Nimly beckons Thorn, and the pair quickly leave the temple, heading for the Silver Stag Inn. The sun has set, casting Everlund in a golden glow with long shadows stretching across the quiet streets. As they approach the Inn, the doors are open, and lively conversation mixed with the plucked notes of a lute spill out into the evening air.
Entering the Inn, Nimly looks around and quickly spies Darian behind the bar. As he approaches, a loud tummy rumble is clearly audible, which Nimly also feels through his boots. Mentally, he reaches out. Hey buddy, you feelin’ snacky? He receives back the mental image of a very thin rat with very large eyes.
Nimly reassures his friend and turns his attention to Darian, “Good evening!” He lowers his voice a bit, “Do you know if Corporal Thorne or Garin are around tonight? I’m conducting an investigation for Captain Anara, and I need to speak to both of them.”
Darian peers around the crowded room for a moment, and he points to a table in the corner. “Aye, that’s Garin over there. Thorne hasn’t been in tonight that I’ve noticed.”
The gnome smiles, “Thank you, Darian. Could we get a Sun’s Glory and two omelets with all the fixings sent over to that table?”
Darian nods, “Aya, it’ll be ‘round soon.”
The man in question has a rugged appearance, and sits in the corner nursing a drink. Thorn waddles over to warm himself up by the fire as Nimly makes his way over to Garin’s table. “Excuse me, sir. We have a mutual acquaintance. I spoke with Sergeant Harkin earlier today and he mentioned your name. May I share your table and some conversation?”
Garin slowly looks up from his drink, his eyes narrowing as he assesses Nimly. After a moment his expression softens, and he gestures to the empty seat across from him. "Sergeant Harkin, you say? Sure, have a seat. Any friend of Harkin's is welcome. What brings you out lookin’ for me?"
Nimly scoots around the edge of the table and takes a seat where he can see the rest of the tavern. “I was given a task by Captain Anara to look into an unsavory incident between Corporal Thorne and a priestess at the Hall of the Moon. I’ve been looking for Thorne in order to record his account. Do you have any knowledge of the event I’m referring to or anything you’d like to share about Thorne himself?”
Garin leans back in his chair, considering Nimly's words. "Aye, I've heard a bit about that incident. Thorne's a good one, but he's been actin’ strange lately. Seen him hanging around with some shady folks, and he's been more on edge than usual. As for the incident at the temple, I don't know the details, but I heard it was quite a commotion. Thorne's not usually one to cause trouble, so whatever happened must've been serious."
He pauses, taking a sip of his drink before continuing. "If you want to find Thorne, you might check the old barracks near the east gate. He's been there at his office a lot recently, often late into the night. Just be careful; whatever's going on has him riled up.”
As Nimly and Garin talk, Darian approaches the table with a tray. He skillfully balances a mug of Sun’s Glory and two steaming omelets overflowing with onions, cream, bacon and various meats. He sets the items down in front of Nimly with a friendly smile. "Here you go, sir. Enjoy." He then leans in slightly and adds in a low voice, "Before you leave, make sure to have a word with me. There's something you should know." With that, Darian straightens up and heads back to the bar. Nimly nods his thanks and turns back to the food.
With both plates steaming in front of him, Nimly looks down and casts Mold Earth, collecting sawdust on the floor into a slightly raised 2 foot square platform. With a flourish of Silent Image, a table setting appears on the sawdust platform, complete with a silver place setting, sturdy silverware, and a squat candle burning away. He sets the omelet down on the table, mentally relaying to Thorn that dinner is ready. Thorn pushes up from his spot by the fire and waddles over eagerly. His whiskers are twitching in delight at the aroma coming off the delicious food. The giant rat begins eating his omelet with gusto.
Nimly takes a drink from his mug, and his eyes, normally a deep green, take on a metallic glow. “Aaaahhhh. That’s nice. The old barracks near the east gate? I will look into it. How recent is Thorne’s change of behavior and association with shady characters? Are these characters connected with the organized bandits that have troubled the city of late?”
Garin watches Nimly’s magical display for Thorn with amusement before responding. “Thorne's odd behavior started about a month ago. He used to be reliable, always had a clear head. But lately, he’s been jumpy and secretive. As for the shady characters, I can't say if they’re connected to the bandits, but it wouldn’t surprise me. There’s been more bandit activity around the city, and Thorne’s been seen with people who look like they’re up to no good. If I were you, I’d be careful poking around the East Barracks. Unlike the guardhouse, it’s not open to the public.”
Nimly smiles at Thorn, taking another slow sip from his mug; he turns his attention back to Garin. “Hmmm. I’ve heard a number of times that Thorne’s recent behavior is a departure from what his friends expect. I don’t want to diminish what he did, but I do want to understand why it feels unexpected. Could you share a story or two about him from the past that describes his previous reputation? This won’t be part of the inquest. I’m merely trying to understand why his recent behavior has confused people.”
Garin takes a long draw from his mug, signaling to Darian he needs another. "Aye, Thorne's change is a puzzle for many of us who knew him well. About a year ago, there was a house fire near the Silverymoon Gate. Thorne was off duty, but he rushed in without a second thought. He helped pull people from the burning building, risking his own life to save others. The city recognized his bravery, and he was awarded a commendation for his actions."
Garin takes a deep breath before continuing, "Thorne was also known for his fairness. There was an incident where some local merchants were being harassed by a gang. Thorne took it upon himself to investigate and put an end to their extortion racket. He didn't just arrest them; he made sure they were brought to justice in a way that restored the merchants' trust in the city guard. He was the kind of man you could count on to do the right thing."
Garin leans back in his seat, taking a long swallow. "That's why his recent behavior is so troublin. It's like he's a different person. I don't know what's gotten into him, but it's clear somethins not right. I hope you can get to the bottom of it, Nimly."
Nimly nods in satisfaction, “Garin, you’ve been more helpful than I could have dreamed. Hopefully, this matter will be concluded soon, in a way that restores trust in the Guard and the safety of the citizens. If so, you deserve credit for it. As a token of my gratitude, your next two drinks are on me. I’ll speak to Darian in a moment and pass that on. I hope to chat with you again someday soon.” Garin nods, a note of appreciation in his eyes.
After his farewell, Nimly dismisses the Mold Earth and Silent Image effects, picks up the plate, and returns to Darian. “Your brewmaster is top notch, Darian. That’s the best Sun’s Glory I’ve had in a year. Put two drinks for Garin back there on my tab? He’s a fine chap. Now, you had something to discuss with me?”
Darian smiles as absorbs the high praise in a practiced way. “Of course, Nimly. I’m glad you enjoyed the drink. Come and get another when you are back for the night.” He says that last bit with a wink. “I’ll make sure Garin gets his drinks. Now, about that something I wanted to discuss… I've heard about a newcomer to town who appears to be poking around asking questions. She might be able to help you with the bandit troubles. If you’re interested, she should be at the Hall of the Moon this evening.”
Nimly reaches down and pets Thorn, “Oh? Did you catch a name? I’ll head over. I don’t know if I’ll be back for the night or not. If I do, I’m interested in a full mug of Honey Pine Dew, if you have a cask lying around. That’s a decent incentive to dodge arrows. It’s good to have goals.”
Darian chuckles, a twinkle in his eye. "The name is Yávië Ru. You can't miss her—she has these swirling amber and green eyes. And don’t worry, I'll have that Honey Pine Dew ready for you when you get back. Just make sure that you do dodge those arrows, alright?"
Upon reaching the Temple of Selûne, Nimly pauses for a moment, taking in the serene atmosphere. The moonlight and the gentle whispers of prayers create a sense of calm. He pushes open the large wooden doors and steps inside, Thorn close behind. Inside the temple, a few worshippers are scattered around, lost in meditation. At the far end of the hall, a woman that matches Darian’s description catches Nimly’s eye. She appears to be meditating as far away from the priestesses as she can get.
Nimly takes a seat that is in view of her and relatively close by so that, should she finish her task, he will notice and perhaps be noticed. One by one, he takes out the wand, ring and orb from his pack and examines them. Nimly puts the other items away and focuses on the wand. After a time, the woman in front of him comes out of her meditation, opening her eyes. They are indeed swirling green and amber.
Nimly waves and approaches, with Thorn following as politely and carefully as a giant rat might move through a temple. “Good evening! A mutual acquaintance, Darian from the Silver Stag? He gave me your name and said you had some strong feelings on the bandit issues that Everlund is dealing with. My name is Nimly Sparkleshine and I have strong feelings too.”