Still recovering from the battle with Longtooth, the party collects themselves. This includes a heartwarming moment of gear-swapping where rings are passed around like hors d’oeuvres at a fancy ballroom dance. Once everyone is content with their load out, Morgiv shouts out down the tunnels.
A couple more Spared skulks respond and set off to gather the others. The situation calls for a feast and a celebration of their freedom! Skulks come pouring into the room, pushing aside the bodies of dragons to make room for their mushroom-based dishes.
As the food is prepared, Krask investigates Longtooth’s metallic addition. He discerns that parts of the coating are actually made from smelted gold and silver, presumably from his hoard. You can abandon your hoard if it’s always stuck to you, as the saying goes.
After several hours of cooking, the leader of the Spared arrives. She extolls the actions of the heroes, and thanks them for freeing her people. They lack tangible payment, but she informs the party that the skulks will watch over their progress through Xin-Shalast, and aid them from afar.
As they mingle, there’s a lot of chatter about what they all Olan to do after all this is over. Most of them have become so wrapped up in Karzoug’s plot that they haven’t really given it much thought. Fobias and Richard go off down the tunnels for some much-needed introspection, especially after his brush with death.
While they’re thinking, several armed skulks approach. Fobias and Richard hide and let them pass, unable to discern friend from foe. As it turns out, the skulks have recaptured one of their holy shrines to Mesmina, and they come bearing the riches from the emancipation. With Longtooth’s influence subsided, the other skulks are returning to their senses, and the division between them is expected to disappear.
The party is awarded a share of the spoils, now that there are some physical items in the skulks’ possession. A second scroll of true resurrection is included. Not too shabby for a quick mission.
The next morning, the party follows Morgiv to the edge of the Tangle, underground. They emerge from the tunnels outside a massive colosseum topped with a Sihedron Rune. Next door is a long, partially-destroyed field that once hosted chariot races.
Fobias scouts ahead using Eagle Eye, and finds several landmarks that stand out. Fyn discerns that the rings, along with the Sihedron Medallions, are key in ascending the mountain to where Karzoug is likely stationed. Unfortunately, they don’t have enough rings to cover the entire party, so there must be more that they can acquire. Especially in Karzoug’a shadow.
On second thought – why don’t they consult the magical Peacock Spirit with the Revelation Quill. They prepare for their divine questioning as Krask feels the Sihedron Medallion heat up against his chest.
What questions will the Great Peacock be able to answer? Are the Medallions safe to wear? Why would you sell timeless medallions for a paltry payday?