You knew you were getting closer to Vertigo, not only by the looming mountain overhead, but by the quickened pace of the hunters wanting nothing more than to be home after their harrowing experience.  Elias and Elinaora shared a smile, before racing to the gates to see who would reach there first; Elinaora clearly the more fleet of foot.

As the rest of the party neared the wooden stockade fences of Vertigo, some may have been surprised to see Sebastian up on the wall, dark circles around his heavy eyes as his tired body slumped up against and leaned for support along the top of the wall.  His demeanor quickly changed as he heard your approach, excitement in his face and step.  You wonder if he was sleeping while standing, as it wasn't until you were quite close before his change in demeanor.  Suddenly barking all sorts of orders at the guards, it seemed as if the town had suddenly come alive as the two gates lifted up for your arrival.  A half dozen guards ran out and took positions on each side of party and their cart to ensure everyone's safe entrance, a couple of the citizens you were less familiar with came out with bandages and quickly moved one by one, asking anyone if they needed any medical treatment; a couple walking with the hunters even though the hunters seemed to reassure them that they were okay.

As the party and cart made its way through the 2nd gate and into the main compound, the guards, even though there was nothing in sight were vigilant and took care to enter only two at a time, while the rest kept an eye out for danger, before the final two ran in, the first gate closing behind them.

The two final guards made their way in, the second gate closing behind them.  Inside, there were a lot of people already gathered, including Thorin and a bunch of the town's citizens.  Thorin, had a warm look on his face, seeing that everyone looked to be safe and sound.

Sebastian seemed frantic, until he locked eyes with Aleena.  Rushing up to her, he looked her over, even picking up her arms and turning around, Are you okay Aleena?  Were you hurt? Please, what can I do?

Aleena smiled at him, finding some joy in his erratic behavior, before saying, You could start by kissing me you fool.  They quickly embraced, not caring whom was around them, to the point it became quite uncomfortable for everyone else, who remained quiet until Thorin spoke up.

Well...um....It is good to see you all home and safe.  It seems you've not only brought home some new friends, but food for a feast and a story to tell I'm sure.  That can wait until you've all rested and we make sure everyone is well.

Turning to the party, Thorin speaks up again and says, Thank you my friends, for bringing them home, alive and well.  I can't thank you enough.  You truly are part of our family now and should you need anything, know that we are here for you.

Now let's get you all some food, drink, and rest.  Shall we? Thorin motions to the caves leading into the mountain.

Once through the gate, I immediately look for Thorin as the throng of people who had come to meet us descend upon us. He is easy to spot in the front of the group of citizens but I quickly lose sight of him as they surge forward. A young man carrying medical supplies asks me if I am hurt and I politely tell him no and push forward in the crowd as I push through the crowd toward where I saw Thorin.

It takes me a minute to find him but the small, awkward bubble surrounding Sebastian as he welcomes Aleena back makes things easier. Good for them, I hope they find happiness. Maybe she will be able to smooth out some of his courser behaviors. I reach Thorin as he finishes his own welcome to the party and incline my head in his direction. "Well met Thorin, we are glad to be back." I turn back to the party which is just clearing the crowd and wave Erik and Zail forward. "I have the pleasure to introduce to you Erik Moor," I gesture to the savage looking man hunched over in his usual crouch, his eyes a little wild. I wonder how long it is has been since he was around this many strangers. I should ask Thorin if there is a quiet place outside the settlement where Erik could go to get away yet be sheltered from the elements. I doubt he will want to stay in the inn. "And Zail Hakken. They willingly put themselves in danger to help us find two of your hunters that had been taken. I have not known them long, but they have shown themselves to be brave companions and decent people." While speaking, I pay close attention to Thorin's reaction to our unusual companions; this is a delicate situation and must be carefully handled.

The arrival at Vertigo was quite the event for the little troop, as if all the inhabitants came out to greet them. Fortunately, there had been no casualties, and everyone had an happy ending, even the grating Sebastian, locking lips with Aleena, in a curious display that Sand did not understand, his head cocked to the side as he was watching the couple. Clacker was nervous around so many people and caught Sand’s attention, that managed to calm his beast.

Andraste had found Thorin and introduced Zail, in her curious dress… when did she had time to change? But it was Erik that concerned Sand, so the construct made his way to him, the wild man looking around like a frightened beast. Sand squatted beside him, Clacker going on the other side and gently nudging the druid.

Erik has no need to be afraid. Sand is here. Erik among friends here.

He gently put his hand on the man’s shoulder, to help calm him down.

Thorin walks a little closer to you all with a warm smile.  He makes sure to keep his space, seeing the nervous look on the two newcomers, but quickly comes in for a hug to Andraste.  It is a pleasure to meet you Erik and Zail.  I thank you all for your help in the return of our hunters, but especially you two for helping our family out of the goodness of your hearts.  Know that you are welcome here now and always as part of our family.  It may seem strange in times like these, but that is exactly why it's so important.  In the short time Andraste and her friends have been here, as I'm sure you've heard, it's been quite chaotic, but they've now stuck their neck for us twice and we are eternally grateful.

You must be the most nervous young one, especially considering our most recent events, but I will make sure everyone here knows that you are one of us and to be welcomed with open arms.

If there is anything else I can do for either of you, or you Andraste, please let me know.

"Thank you Thorin. I need to speak with you and Sebastian but that can wait until tomorrow morning. In the meantime, is there a quiet, sheltered place that Erik can use outside of the main settlement? It has been sometime since he has been near this many people and it would be nice if there was somewhere he can go to get away."

I hate to say this, but there really isn't anything safe outside of the main settlement.  I'd be happy to accommodate here in anyway that I can, though I'm not sure what would suit his needs appropriately.  We don't have houses and our caves are cramped, as you know.  I mean, we have a stable that can be used as a shelter, but I wouldn't feel comfortable having a newly acquainted family member stay there.  It just wouldn't be right.  We'd be happy to clear the animals out.

The only other thing I can think of, is if Sand is up for it, we can carve out a cavern right outside of the town itself or within the gates out here, where there are less people, if that would make him feel more comfortable.  I would just have to get my engineers on it as well, so we don't have any cave-ins, of course.

Do any of those options sound like they could work?
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:41, Fri 16 July 2021.

I turn to face the person in question, "Erik, what would you prefer?"

Sand rose from his squat and looked at Thorin.

Sand knows where stable is. Sand thinks that Erik will be happy with long... ponies. Sand thinks Erik likes animals more than peoples.

The construct started to walk toward the structure, Clacker in tow, and turned back to see if Erik was following.

As they'd approached Vertigo, Erik's steps had become slower and slower. There was a hesitation that wasn't quite identifiable. Rather than fall back behind the group though he fell into close step behind Sand. By the time they were at the gates he was so close to San he was practically treading on the metal man's feet. He didn't know what awaited him in this place. His mind kept really at his ability to break one of the strongest lessons his father had unwittingly taught him before his disappearance. Keep the downward mountain ever in sight but never close. He was close now.

And then there was a flood of people. More people in one place than he had ever seen this close up. Every one of them had their own scent and feel and they all walked upright and he was so different here he was the outcast again he was something to be turned away. Except he wasn't. His eyes had darted wildly trying to track all of the potential threats that had surrounded him and the few individuals he had started to like. He had bared his teeth and growled warnings at any who came to close including the one offering bandages. And then there was breathing space. Giltris had said his name and was talking to a man. A stocky short bearded man, a dwarf. With a beard different from Erik's in every way. Where his was unruly and unkempt this beard was woven into an intricate pattern. It was beautiful. And strange. All of these people were so strange it was so much all at once. To much. As Erik prepared to run back out of this place and give up on the search for the one person he desperately wanted to see again he heard them making arrangements to make him feel more comfortable. Why? He was nobody he was a beast he was a monster waiting to be born and they wanted to keep him here and make him welcome...

A question was asked of him, a choice. He simply nodded not knowing what to pick. Sand took charge and started leading somewhere and Erik quickly took the cue and broke away from everyone. He moved to follow Sand and paused looking back at the beard again. His fingers moved to his own scraggly mess. They caught in a knot. He shook his head. Then his eyes went to Giltris and there was a gratitude there. He nodded his head in thanks this time with a flicker of a smile. He turned back.

"Sand." It was barely above a whisper and all the animalistic sounds whines and grunts that came with his speech before were back. "So   many people. Know..    them, trust them?" He was very carefully not looking upward upward upward to the far roots of the inverted mountain. Instead forcing himself to keep his eyes in front of him.

As he was bringing Erik away from all the animation, the druid literally following him in his footsteps, Sand thought he heard the man talk between his growls. It took him a moment to realize what Erik meant and turned towards him as he stopped in front of the stables, the manure smell overpowering.

Sand arrived here not too long ago. It was first time Sand saw that many people. Do Sand trust them all?

He shook his head, then cocked it to the side.

No, Sand barely knows Vertigo. But Sand trusts Thorin, the small…. The Dwarf. Thorin is good leader for those people. Sand saw him lead and take charge after dark ones… drows… attack. Sand thinks people safe here, under Thorin’s guidance.

He opened the door to the stables and walked in, each animal in it’s own enclosure. He brought Erik in front of one, and a robust pony answered his call, nuzzling the warforged.

This is Sprite, Sand brought him here after dwarf friends that found Sand died. Erik can stay here, Sand will stay with Erik.

Erik nodded at Sand's speaking for Thorin. "Nice beard." Briefly his hands flicked up to his own mess again.

Even though the smell was strong, Erik visibly relaxed over here. He immediately lit up at the sight of the pony. "Sprite?"

What followed was a sight to behold. Erik looked at Sprite and began to greet them in the manner a horse should be greeted. He began by raising his head and turning to the side slightly. He let out a knicker that sounded like it should have come straight from a horse, his head bobbed a little up and down as he continued to knicker. He pushed his face right up toward Sprite's nostril and breathed his air into Sprite's nose and inhaled as the pony returned the affectionate greeting.

Immediately after, he pranced away and back. As much as a person can prance. There was a splitting smile on his face like hadn't been there in a long while. Greetings done he started to whiny and knicker in something that wasn't anything close to human speech but his meaning came across clearly to the pony and any other horses stabled here. He greeted them all in the same manner he greeted Sprite and begun to talk to them. "Hello four legged friends I have met your cousins in the hills, the wild mustangs and I am pleased to meet you as well. This one calls you Sprite dear friend but I find that two leggers call many things by wrong names when they do not know true names. Some call me Erik but to my dear friends I am known as the one who leaps and bounds without fear. What are all your names?"

For the next ten minutes he devoted his attention wholly to learning about these creatures, who they were, what they did, what they thought of this place. Were they happy here?

As his play time drew to a close he looks back over to Sand with the smile still on his face. "Thank you. For  staying. You are good friend. Will sleep here, what to do tomorrow? Can find my father? What does Sand do here?"

He also shared the true name of the one called Sprite so that Sand could be involved. At least as best as it could be translated to human speech.

We had finally arrived back in Vertigo and the entire village had come outside to greet us. I knew everyone was excited for the return of their comrades, but there were new faces amongst us; faces that might not be taken too kindly from the audience. So far no one had many any hostile remarks or actions towards them, but that could just be a matter of time. I hoped Thorin would address this with everyone later to be safe. Giltris led Zail and Erik to be introduced to Thorin and I noticed Sand accompany them; Erik seemingly glued to his side. I stood a little way back and watched the interaction, not only waiting for my turn to address Thorin but also to keep an eye on the crowd surrounding them. After a few minutes, Sand led Erik toward the stable and away from the gaze of most of the people. I felt this would probably suit Erik better and I'd make sure to beg some food from Corsica to take out to them later.

I made my way over to where I saw Thorin still stood, mentally preparing myself for the conversation I would need to have. Excuse me, Thorin, might I have a word? I have some news about Althidon and Elias. Can you meet to discuss this before the party tonight? I just have a few things to take care of first. A bath, change of clothes, the usual things after a long journey.

Of course Althaea.  How about you rest and freshen up while I get the party organized and moving.  Let's meet back, say...in 3 hours?

I expect the party to start when the sun has fully set and most of the real youngins are put in their beds for the evening.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:43, Sun 06 Sept 2020.

Yes, that will give me plenty of time. Where would you like to meet?

Judging from the concern on your face, would my quarters work better for privacy?  Or would a walk outside suffice? Either works for me.

Your quarters will suit fine. It might be wise to bring Sebastian and Corsica along. They are Sebastian's people and Corsica may have some ideas as well, should a solution not be viable at this time. I will explain in more detail when we meet in three hours.

I bowed as I departed from Thorin and went to draw myself a bath. Once I was clean, I returned to the quarters I had come to know as my own and selected my nicest shirt and breeches. I knew it was still another two hours before I had to meet with Thorin and I was getting hungry, so I went to see Corsica.

I know you are probably busy getting ready for the party later, but could I trouble you for something quick? I am famished. Also, Corsica, do you know anyone in Vertigo that makes dresses? There seem to be a lot of activities here that require one to look presentable.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 18:32, Sun 06 Sept 2020.

Sand looked at Erik talking with the horses and ponies of the stable, seemingly having the time of his life. Cursed with an inexpressive face, he nodded, happy to have found something for Erik to relate with. He then turned to Clacker, that had sustained some damage during the walk back, one of its leg's articulation having lost some mobility.  With a resigned clack, the mechanoid dropped on its belly and raised the faulty leg, for the artificer to look at. The wood fibers of Sand’s right leg started their uncoiling, opening the secret tool box of the construct, and he selected a screwdriver from it. A few seconds later, the insectoid leg was dismantled and Sand saw what was wrong; some wood had insinuated itself in the mechanism. Using different tools extracted from his leg, he cleaned up the articulation and put it back together, before realizing Erik had finished talking with the horses. Sand carefully put the tools back in their proper place in his leg and the wood fibers coiled again, closing the opening.

Erik then told him Sprite’s real name, that Sand tried to repeat, without much success. Then the druid asked him what he was doing in Vertigo. Sand shrugged.

Sand has known Vertigo for less than a week. Before Sand walked a lot, coming from south. Then dark… Drows attacked and hunters did not come back and Sand helped. Sand has no role in Vertigo. But there is lots to fix, Sand could do that here.  Sand likes to fix.

For Erik’s father, Sand thinks Erik should ask Thorin. Maybe he saw father or heard of him.

Seeing the alarm in Erik’s eyes, he raised a placating hand.

Sand will ask Thorin to come see Erik here, after party and rest, is that acceptable to Erik?
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:14, Sun 06 Sept 2020.

You are worrying me Althaea.  I will make sure they are with me. Thorin left the conversation with puzzlement and concern on his face.

Not surprising, Corsica is found in the Better Times Inn, bustling around cleaning the tables, helping with what decorations they could muster up, as well as sweeping the floor, getting some of the cavern dirt that always finds its way in.  She looks up as you walk in, her smile, genuine and warm:

Hey there Red! I am quite busy over here, but happy to grab you something from the kitchen.  Especially for someone who brought my eye-candy back to me. She winks and nudges you were her elbow. 

Darcassan is so lithe, and strong.  Just thinking about him is getting me all in a tizzy.  Why did you have to bring him up Red?  She giggles at her own attempt at humor, smiling.

Anyways, we have some leftovers from lunch, though it ain't much.  Boiled Onions, Dried Artichoke, and some stewed turnip.  I could have them whip you up some Barley porridge if that is more your thing.  Unfortunately, with the hunters gone so long, the only meat we have is that Owlbear you brought back.  How did you guys kill such a thing?  I've heard those things can put up quite the fight!

Hmm...we do have a older woman here, named Mera, though she might not have much on hand, as far as materials.  If you ever wonder why Aleena looks as fancy as she does, it's because Sebastian buys up all the good stuff before anyone else can.  Aleena's a pretty lass, like yourself, but with all them fancy materials, she might even give you a run for your gold!

Though, you are about the same size, so you might be asking Aleena if she has something you could borrow.  I'm sure she won't mind, with you saving her and all.

I, too, giggled at Corsica's joke. Leftovers from lunch will be fine. Could you beg enough for two? We met a couple of people in the forest and one of them is not comfortable around people. I would like to take him something to eat since he will not attend the party. We did not have to kill the owlbear. A creature from my home was set loose upon the forest and it killed the owlbear. It was mutated, so I am not sure whether it is a herbivore like its normal brethren or if it is a carnivore. Either way, it left its kill for us to take. If the creature becomes a problem, we will have to go exterminate it, however, at the moment it is currently too strong for me to take it on just because. I am glad I was able to bring your sweetheart back to you, although, I know someone will be sad to hear of it. Could you by chance tell me where I can find Mera's and Aleena's quarters?

I found a seat that was not currently surrounded by decorations for the party and waited for the leftovers to be warmed up and brought out.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:58, Sun 06 Sept 2020.

Well that's good you didn't have to tangle with that thing.  Fierce looking it is, that one.  Those claws could cut me right in half, they could.

What sort of creature from your home was so strong it could do what it did to that Owlbear?  Wait, before you tell me that, let me go and grab you that food.  You must be starving Red.

Corsica hurries off to the kitchen, isn't gone more than five minutes, when she returns with a steaming tray, with what looks like a little bit of each of the leftovers, as well as two mugs of cider.  Since you didn't really tell me what you were in the mood for, I brought you some of everything Red, and enough for the two of you.

Well Darcassan, he's not necessarily my sweetheart.  Maybe one day.  He's kinda out of my league and all.  Besides, I'm too busy to be getting all dolled up, just to be waitressing and such.  Wait, who would be sorry to hear it?

Mera is further down the cave, on the left hand side.  She is the one with a really thick and heavy maroon curtain covering her quarters.  She has her own, because she doubles as a shop, so to speak, and has all the materials in there with her.

Aleena can be found right next door to Sebastian.  It was Sebastian's idea of course, though some think that's his way of making sure he is the only suitor stopping by.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:12, Sun 06 Sept 2020.

All afternoon I had felt the pressure within slowly building. It was not so bad while we were on the road and I had to keep an eye out for danger, but now that we had returned to Vertigo, it was becoming unbearable. My thoughts skitter all over the place, unable to settle, and I feel uncomfortable in my own skin; the urge to do something almost overwhelming. It is odd, today I did my normal morning exercises, marched for several hours under full load, and fought a brief but intense fight, normally that would be enough to burn off any excess energy.

With Sand looking after Erik I keep close to Zail as we move clear of the crowd. There are a few hostile glances our way, but no one acts on them; it seems the word had made it around that she had nothing to do with the raid. Hopefully in time she will be able to earn their trust. Or maybe she will leave before then, the choice is up to her.

Soon the forced idleness gets to be too much and I have to go do something. I lean over to Zail, "I have to go let out some steam or I am going to be completely unacceptable company tonight. You are welcome to join me if you wish, but if not I will be in the open area inside the inner wall to the west of the main gate. Come and get me if anyone bothers you or if you just want to talk to talk with someone." I say to her quietly and give her my most reassuring smile.

I manage to work my way outside the tunnel leading into the settlement, despite the people moving excitedly the other way as they prepare for the evenings festivities. It is good to see them in such high spirits; I doubt they have much to celebrate. Finally clear of the tunnel, I make my way to the well and wait my turn. Once I have filled my water skin and an additional bucket, I head to my preferred exercise spot and start going through my sword katas.

The familiar movements are soothing and I concentrate on each contraction and release of muscle, the discipline to make each movement exact and not over extending or rotating. Slowly as my muscles begin to burn my thoughts slow and I start to reach for the clarity exercise has always brought me but it remains stubbornly out of reach. Alright, I will have to try something else.

I remove my armour, strip down to my underwear, and start going through body-weight exercises, slow and deliberate. I focus on my breathing, making sure to keep it regular and in time with each exertion. Up...down...up...down... The measured rhythm helps but I still cannot reach it. I switch to a vertical push-up and slowly lower myself into the down position and hold it for as long as I can. My muscles protest under the strain and sweat drips off the tip of my nose and onto the ground, but I still hold the position. Finally, just before my strength fails me, I push back to the upright position and lower myself into a plank. I hold that position until my core and back feel like they are on fire before sitting back, my heels under my thighs ; if I keep going like this I will be useless for the rest of the day. I begin my cool down stretches and I finally am able to achieve the calm I sought. It has been years since I had to work so hard to find my centre.

Once those are done I drink deep from my water skin and wash myself and my clothes as best I can with the water I had drawn from the well. At times like this I miss my cleansing rod desperately, but I knew what I was doing when I set out from home and I chose to accept the hardships that go with it. I think what I miss the most is the feeling of being truly clean. I will just have to continue my work and do the best I can with what is available. I put on a clean set of clothes, gather my gear, and head back towards the town.

On my way I see the stable and change directions; I should check on Sand and Erik, see if they need anything. I knock on the door frame and wait a moment to give them a chance to respond before stepping inside. Sand is working on something in the corner with Clacker, resting next to him facing the door, but Scamp is nowhere in sight; it is probably up to some mischief. Erik is in the stall with a tough looking pony, idly stroking its flank and making soft huffing sounds at it.

"Good evening gentlemen," I say to them quietly while giving each of them a friendly smile, "I am heading back into the caves and I was wondering if the two of you needed anything?"

(Note: Before she left to do her exercises her hair had gradually darkened to a deep brown but by the time she is done it has changed back to a pale blonde.)
This message was last edited by the player at 01:55, Mon 07 Sept 2020.

Corsica was not gone more than five minutes when she came back with a little bit of each dish from lunch. Everything on the tray was steaming and smelled delightful.

Thank you, Corsica, everything looks delicious. The original is called an Elkthrawn, pray you never have to meet its mutation. I find it hard to believe that anyone would be out of your league but I do know someone else who is interested in you, Jacob the weaponsmith. Maybe I will give you a break tonight so you can spend some time with him. I have no reason not to, Alaric is not yet back from his trip home and I had not planned on staying long because of it.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:24, Sun 06 Sept 2020.

My pleasure Red.  I wouldn't go so far as to say it looks delicious, but I appreciate your kindness.

Jacob you say.  He is quite a built man, for sure.  Fiery hair like yourself there Red.  I think I can make that work.

Are you sure about this?  I don't want to be throwing myself out there on some rumor.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:34, Sun 06 Sept 2020.

I smiled warmly, I am quite sure. He told me himself before we left to go find the hunters. He will be quite pleased. I should get this to the stables before it gets cold though. Thank you, again.

I picked up the tray and carefully carried it out to the stables, doing my best to avoid jostling it when there were too many people moving through the tunnels at once. The stable doors were already open when I arrived, Giltris appearing to have also stopped to check in on Sand and Erik. I looked around for a clean surface to set the tray on and announced myself. Good evening, everyone. Erik, I thought you might be getting hungry so I brought some food out to share. Giltris, I would have brought some for you as well, had I known you were going to be here.

Clacker got back on its legs and moved around the stable to test the repairs out, almost getting kicked a few times in the process by the skittish animals.  Its round brought him close to the door when Andraste came in to check on the two, followed closely by Althaea, bringing some food for Erik.

Sand thanks Giltris and Althaea for checking on Erik and Sand. Sand not eat, but there is something you can do for Erik. Sand told Erik that maybe Thorin heard about Erik’s father. Sand would be grateful if Thorin and Sebastian could come here, to talk with Erik about Erik’s father.

No need for it to be now, but after rest? Sand not think Erik would be comfortable in cave with all the people. Sand gives thanks.

The construct nodded, glad to not have to leave Erik’s side. Although he seemed ok around the horses, he was not sure if a stranger barging in the stable would not startle the man and make him panic. So he preferred to stay here with his strange friend.