Bartel and Uilly were slumped together in a corner, their heads resting against each other in a way that suggested they had fallen asleep mid-conversation. Hernkull was sprawled out on the floor, her massive frame taking up most of the space, while Grendor lay curled up on a makeshift bed of blankets, his bow still within arm’s reach. Captain Alaric was seated in a chair by the window, his head tilted back, snoring softly. The room was a mess—empty mugs, discarded boots, and scattered gear littered the floor, evidence of their first night back on shore.
Sern stretched, his muscles stiff from sleeping on the hard floor. He glanced around, taking in the peaceful scene. It was a rare moment of calm, a stark contrast to the chaos they had faced on the island. He couldn’t help but smile as he watched his crewmates, their faces relaxed in sleep. They had been through so much together, and now, for the first time in what felt like forever, they could breathe easy.
Quietly, Sern stood and made his way to the window, careful not to wake the others. He pulled back the curtain slightly and peered outside. The streets of Balkerteret were just beginning to come alive, the early morning light casting long shadows across the cobblestones. A few fishermen were already making their way to the docks, their nets slung over their shoulders, while a lone merchant pushed a cart laden with fresh produce toward the market square. The city was waking up, and with it, the promise of a new day.
Sern let the curtain fall back into place and turned to look at the room again. His eyes lingered on the Jade Monkey Idol, which sat on the table in the center of the room, its emerald eyes glinting faintly in the dim light. It was a strange feeling, holding something so valuable yet so seemingly ordinary. Uilly had been right—it was just a stone, a beautifully crafted one, but still just a stone. The real treasure, Sern realized, was the bond they had forged as a crew. They had faced death together, fought side by side, and come out stronger for it. That was something no amount of gold or jewels could ever replace.
As if sensing his thoughts, Uilly stirred, his eyes fluttering open. He blinked a few times, then grinned when he saw Sern standing by the window. “Morning, mate,” he said, his voice husky with sleep. “You’re up early.”
“Couldn’t sleep,” Sern replied, keeping his voice low so as not to wake the others. “Too much on my mind.”
Uilly nodded, understanding in his eyes. “Aye, I get that. It’s not every day you take down a sorceress and live to tell the tale.” He stretched, wincing slightly as he moved his injured leg. “How’s the cheek?” he asked, nodding toward the bandage on Sern’s face.
“Stings a bit,” Sern admitted, touching the cut lightly. “But Bartel did a good job patching me up. How’s the leg?”
“Healing,” Uilly said with a shrug. “Hernkull’s magic did the trick. Still hurts like the devil, though.” He glanced around the room, his gaze settling on the Jade Monkey. “You know, for all the trouble that thing caused, it’s not much to look at, is it?”
Sern chuckled softly. “No, it’s not. But I suppose that’s the way of things. The real treasure isn’t always what you expect.”
Uilly raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. “Listen to you, getting all philosophical. Next thing you know, you’ll be spouting poetry.”
Sern rolled his eyes but couldn’t suppress a grin. “Don’t push your luck, dwarf.”
The two of them shared a quiet laugh, the sound drawing a groan from Hernkull, who shifted in her sleep but didn’t wake. Uilly stood, wincing again as he put weight on his injured leg, and hobbled over to the table. He picked up the Jade Monkey, turning it over in his hands. “Still can’t believe it’s not dwarven,” he muttered, more to himself than to Sern. “The craftsmanship is too good. Whoever made this knew what they were doing.”
Sern joined him at the table, his eyes on the idol. “Maybe it’s from a culture we’ve never heard of. Elaria’s full of mysteries. Who knows what else is out there?”
Uilly nodded thoughtfully. “Aye, that’s true enough. Maybe one day we’ll find out.” He set the idol back down and glanced at Sern. “So, what’s next for you? Now that the adventure’s over, you planning to stick around?”
Sern hesitated, his gaze drifting to the window again. “I don’t know,” he admitted. “I’ve been on my own for so long, it’s hard to imagine staying in one place. But… this crew, you all feel like family. I’m not sure I’m ready to walk away from that.”
Uilly clapped him on the shoulder, his grip firm but friendly. “Well, you’ve got time to figure it out. For now, let’s just enjoy being back on solid ground, eh? Maybe grab some breakfast before the others wake up and eat everything in sight.”
Sern laughed softly. “Sounds like a plan.”
As the two of them made their way to the door, Sern cast one last glance at the sleeping forms of his crewmates. They had been through hell and back together, and he knew that whatever came next, they would face it as a team. For now, though, he was content to savor the quiet moments, the simple joys of good company and a warm meal. The adventures would come again, but for today, they had earned their rest.
The door creaked softly as they stepped out into the morning light, the city of Balkerteret stretching out before them, alive with the promise of new beginnings.
As they settled in the clearing, Uilly pulled out his journal, the pages slightly crinkled from their recent adventures. "Okay," he said, his voice tinged with excitement, "I forgot how much we actually got from those guards. Let me read it out."
He cleared his throat and began to recite from his meticulously kept log:
"Loot from the Elite Guards (x4):
Weapons:
- +1 Longsword (x4)
- +1 Heavy Mace (x2)
- +1 Composite Longbow (+2 Strength) with 20 arrows
Armor:
- +1 Full Plate Armor (x4)
- +1 Heavy Steel Shield (x4)
Miscellaneous Gear:
- Potion of Cure Serious Wounds (x6)
- Potion of Bull's Strength (x4)
- Masterwork Dagger (x4)
- Cloak of Resistance +2 (x4)
- Ring of Protection +1 (x4)
Coins and Gems:
- 600 gold pieces (150 gold pieces per guard)
- 20 gems worth 50 gold pieces each (5 gems per guard)"
As Uilly read out the list, he simultaneously laid out a roll of canvas on the forest floor. With careful precision, he began arranging the items as listed, creating a display that made their recent victory tangible.
The weapons gleamed in the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy. The +1 longswords caught the light, their enchanted blades seeming to hum with barely contained energy. The heavy maces, solid and imposing, spoke of the brute force they could deliver. The composite longbow, its +2 strength enhancement visible in its taut string, lay beside a quiver of arrows, ready for a skilled archer's hand.
Next came the armor. The +1 full plate armor sets were impressive, each a masterpiece of metalwork enhanced by magic. Beside them, the +1 heavy steel shields formed a protective wall, their surfaces unmarred and gleaming.
The miscellaneous gear formed a colorful array. The potions of Cure Serious Wounds and Bull's Strength were carefully arranged, their contents swirling with magical potential. The masterwork daggers, each a testament to expert craftsmanship, lay in a neat row. The Cloaks of Resistance +2 shimmered slightly, their protective magic almost palpable. The Rings of Protection +1 caught the light, small but powerful symbols of the magical defenses they could provide.
Finally, the coins and gems created a small treasure pile, the gold pieces clinking softly as Uilly arranged them, while the gems sparkled, each one worth a small fortune.
Being a dwarf, Uilly's expertise came to the fore as he touched each item, his fingers seeming to read the enchantments woven into them. "The weapons and armor are all of excellent quality," he murmured, his eyes gleaming with appreciation. "The enchantments are strong and stable."
He uncapped each potion, and either he or Hernkull identified them by their distinct aromas. The scent of herbs and magic mingled in the air as they confirmed the nature of each brew.
Grendor stepped forward to examine the cloaks, his elven heritage allowing him to appreciate the fine weave. "These are of elven make," he said softly, running his fingers along the fabric. "The magic is woven into every thread."
Hernkull, ever the warrior, tried on one of the sets of full plate armor. The metal sang as she moved, but her face fell slightly. "It's beautifully crafted," she admitted, "but it cuts off my connection to the earth. Too cumbersome for my fighting style." With a hint of regret, she removed the armor, and Uilly carefully packed it back into the bag of holding.
As they began to divide the spoils, Uilly initially declined to take anything, insisting that the others should benefit from the loot. However, the group wouldn't hear of it, insisting that he was now one of them and deserved an equal share.
In the end, they distributed the items based on each person's strengths and fighting styles:
- Each member took a masterwork dagger, appreciating the fine balance and sharp edge.
- Grendor and Sern each claimed a +1 longsword and a Cloak of Resistance +2.
- Hernkull, preferring her great axe, took a Ring of Protection +1 to bolster her defenses and a Cloak of Resistance +2.
- Grendor also took the +1 Composite Longbow, as it was left-handed and he was ambidextrous
Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
- Bartel, remembering her triumph over the sorceress, exchanged her simple club for a +1 Heavy Mace and a Cloak of Resistance +2.
- The potions were entrusted to Bartel for now, given her experience in distributing them during their sea voyage.
- The +1 Heavy Steel Shields, while impressive, were deemed too cumbersome for their current fighting styles and were carefully stored in the bag of holding.
As they were finishing up, Uilly had a sudden thought. He rummaged in the bag of holding and triumphantly pulled out a small dwarven buckler. "Here's something special," he said, his eyes twinkling. "It's a +1 buckler shield, and it's from a cleric sect. It provides an additional +2 defense against the undead!"
Bartel's eyes lit up as Uilly presented her with the shield. It was a perfect fit for her, complementing her new mace and transforming her into a formidable combatant. She hugged Uilly tightly, her eyes conveying more than just gratitude. "Thank you, Uilly," she said softly, causing the dwarf's ears to turn red as he stammered a reply.
With the loot divided and their new equipment secured, the group felt a surge of confidence. They bounced their pouches of gold and gems in their hands, still somewhat in awe of their newfound wealth.
Just as they thought they were done, Uilly's eyes widened as he remembered something crucial. "Wait," he said, his voice filled with excitement, "that's not all. We still have the sorceress' loot to go through. And let me tell you, she had a lot..."
The group leaned in, eager to hear what other treasures awaited them, each item not just a valuable asset but a testament to their incredible journey and the challenges they had overcome together.
The sorceress, it seemed, had been exceptionally well-prepared for her nefarious deeds. As Uilly cleared the canvas once more, the group gathered around with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The dwarf's nimble fingers began retrieving the sorceress's items from his seemingly bottomless bag of holding, each piece more intriguing than the last.
"Now, this is quite the haul," Uilly muttered, his eyes gleaming with appreciation as he laid out the items. "Let's see what we've got here."
The first item to emerge was a +1 Quarterstaff, its polished wood gleaming with an otherworldly sheen. Intricate runes carved along its length pulsed faintly with magical energy. "A fine weapon," Uilly commented, "though perhaps not suited for our current party composition."
Next came the Bracers of Armor +3, their metallic surface etched with protective sigils. As Uilly set them down, the air around them seemed to shimmer slightly, a testament to their potent defensive magic.
The Robe of the Arcane +4 unfurled itself as if by magic when Uilly placed it on the canvas. Its deep purple fabric seemed to ripple like water, constellations of silver thread forming ever-changing patterns across its surface. "Now that's a piece of work," Grendor whispered, his elven eyes captivated by the intricate design.
A Wand of Magic Missile came next, its 5th level enchantment promising devastating barrages of magical force. With 25 charges, it was a formidable weapon in the right hands. The wand hummed with barely contained energy, its tip occasionally sparking with arcane power.
The Amulet of Magi Armor +2 caught the light as Uilly held it up. Its deep red gem seemed to pulse with an inner fire, the golden chain glinting invitingly. "This little beauty will keep someone safe," Uilly noted, setting it down carefully.
A Headband of Intellect +2 followed, its slim band adorned with a central sapphire that seemed to glow with an inner light. "Ah, this could make even the dullest among us a bit sharper," Uilly chuckled, earning a playful glare from Hernkull.
The Ring of Protection +2 was next, a simple band of platinum that nonetheless radiated an aura of safety. As Uilly set it down, the grass beneath it seemed to stand a little straighter, as if bolstered by its protective magic.
Two scrolls emerged from the bag, their parchment crackling with barely contained power. "Fireball and Dispel Magic, both 10th level," Uilly announced, his voice tinged with respect. "Powerful stuff, to be used wisely."
Two vials of swirling, translucent liquid came next. "Potions of Invisibility," Uilly explained. "Might come in handy for some sneaking about."
A small pouch clinked as Uilly emptied it onto the canvas. Two hundred gold pieces spilled out, along with three gems that caught the sunlight and threw rainbows across the clearing. "Each of these beauties is worth a hundred gold pieces," Uilly said, holding up one of the gems for inspection.
Finally, with great reverence, Uilly produced the Sorceress's Spellbook. Its leather cover was worn but well-cared for, magical symbols embossed in gold leaf across its surface. "This," Uilly said solemnly, "contains various spells up to 5th level. A treasure trove of arcane knowledge."
Uilly had each member of the party pass the spellbook around, cautioning them not to open it. "This is a special item," he explained. "Only certain individuals can use it properly."
As the book passed from hand to hand, nothing unusual happened. But when it landed in Sern's grasp, the tome suddenly glowed with a soft, pulsing light. Everyone fell silent, staring in amazement.
"Well, I'll be a goblin's uncle," Uilly breathed. "Sern, my boy, you're full of surprises. You fight like a tiger, pull a bow like an elf, move like a seasoned rogue in the woods or the city, and now it seems you've got a touch of the arcane in you as well."
Confused by this unexpected development, Sern tried to hand the book back to Uilly. But the dwarf shook his head, pushing it gently back into Sern's hands. "No, sorry, you can't give it away now. That spellbook is yours, lad. It's linked with you when it glowed; it won't open for another soul now."
The rest of the party nodded in agreement, still somewhat stunned by this revelation about their companion. As the initial shock wore off, they began the process of dividing the remaining loot.
The Bracers of Armor +3 were given to Sern. "These will serve you well when you need to rely on your blade," Uilly explained, helping Sern fasten them to his forearms.
Hernkull received the Amulet of Magi Armor +2, the red gem complementing her fierce demeanor. "This should keep you safe when you're charging into the thick of things," Uilly said with a wink.
Bartel was given the Ring of Protection +2, which slid perfectly onto her finger. "A little extra protection never hurts," Uilly noted as Bartel admired the ring's subtle glow.
The Wand of Magic Missile and the powerful scrolls were entrusted to Sern, given his newfound magical aptitude. "Use these wisely," Uilly cautioned. "They're for magic users only, and they pack quite a punch."
The group decided to sell the +1 Quarterstaff and the three valuable gems when they returned to town. The 200 gold pieces were divided equally among the four, each receiving a tidy sum of 50 gold pieces to add to their previous shares.
Bartel took charge of the Potions of Invisibility, adding them to her growing collection of magical brews. Her eyes sparkled with excitement at the possibilities these potions presented.
As the division of loot was wrapping up, Uilly began rummaging in his bag of holding once more. He produced an assortment of backpacks and bags, including a specially designed potion bag with straps to hold vials securely and numerous pockets for other alchemical supplies.
"Here you go, Bartel," Uilly said, handing her the potion bag. "This should help you keep all those brews organized."
The others eagerly examined the other bags Uilly had produced. Sern's eyes lit up when he spotted a belt bag that seemed perfect for holding his new spellbook and scrolls securely.
As the items were claimed and distributed, Uilly meticulously recorded everything in his ledger, his quill scratching quietly against the parchment.
Grendor, who had been watching Uilly's generosity with growing curiosity, finally spoke up. "Uilly, not to seem ungrateful, but you've given away so much to us. We're in need, certainly, but... why?"
Uilly's cheeks reddened slightly, and he ducked his head in embarrassment. "Well, you see," he began, his voice soft, "I'm a bit of a pack rat, truth be told. That buckler I gave Bartel? I've had that tucked away in my bag for nigh on 20 years."
He continued, warming to his explanation. "While you were all resting after our encounter with the sorceress, I took it upon myself to have another look around the camp, both inside and outside the cave. You'd be surprised what people leave behind – a forgotten coin purse here, a cleric's potion bag there. I've always had a knack for finding these little treasures."
Uilly patted his bag of holding affectionately. "But you see, even a bag of holding isn't infinite. It's starting to fill up, if I'm honest. When we head back into town, I'll be selling off a good bit of the extra loot and odds and ends I've gathered over time."
His eyes softened as he looked at his new companions. "But if I feel I have something that can help you, something that might keep you safe or make your path easier, well... I'll gladly share it. We're in this together now, after all."
The party fell silent for a moment, touched by Uilly's words and generosity. Then, with renewed energy, they finished choosing their bags and arranging their new items.
Hernkull:
- Great Axe
- Ring of Protection +1
- Cloak of Resistance +2
- Amulet of Magi Armor +2
- Masterwork Dagger
- 150 gold pieces
- 5 gems worth 50 gold pieces each
Sern:
- +1 Longsword
- Bracers of Armor +3
- Cloak of Resistance +2
- Wand of Magic Missile (5th level, 25 charges)
- Scroll of Fireball (10th level)
- Scroll of Dispel Magic (10th level)
- Sorceress's Spellbook containing various spells up to 5th level
- Masterwork Dagger
- 150 gold pieces
- 5 gems worth 50 gold pieces each
- Belt bag for spellbook and scrolls
Grendor:
- +1 Longsword
- +1 Composite Longbow (+2 Strength) with 20 arrows
- Cloak of Resistance +2
- Masterwork Dagger
- 150 gold pieces
- 5 gems worth 50 gold pieces each
Bartel:
- +1 Heavy Mace
- Buckler Shield +1 (with +2 defense against undead)
- Cloak of Resistance +2
- Potion of Cure Serious Wounds (x6)
- Potion of Bull's Strength (x4)
- Potion of Invisibility (x2)
- Ring of Protection +2
- Masterwork Dagger
- 150 gold pieces
- 5 gems worth 50 gold pieces each
- Potion bag with straps and pockets
As the sun began its descent towards the horizon, casting long shadows across the clearing, the newly equipped party prepared to head back into town for the Naming Day celebrations. The weight of their new gear was a constant reminder of their recent victory and the challenges that lay ahead.
"Hold fast there, fellas," Grendor called out suddenly, his keen elven eyes spotting something in the distance. "See the fountain there in the middle?" He pointed off to the left, where the faint sound of splashing water could be heard over the distant revelry of the festival.
"Aye, see it. What of it?" Hernkull growled, her deep, rumbling voice tinged with curiosity.
Grendor's lips curved into a smile. "We'll meet there as the sun sets. I'll find us another berth for the night, we'll need a place to rest our heads for a couple of nights at least. Last night's room was worse than bunking with trolls the way those two snored." He said, nodding to the dwarf and halfling.
The others nodded in agreement, the excitement of the festival ahead mingling with the anticipation of new adventures to come. As they set off towards the town, their new equipment gleaming in the fading light, they knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together – stronger, better equipped, and more united than ever before.