Session 35: Of Inns and Otters

Within sight of Mancesham, the group is gathered near the charred remains of what was once a large tree...   Having dealt a deep blow to the mind of the strange old mage, Melios tries unsuccessfully to rouse him from his stupor. Finally trying to get him to his feet to join them in the city for healing or restoration, the man responds... by standing and walking off towards the woods, with only a small bit of recognition and acceptance.   Deciding that this is as much as they might accomplish for now, the group mounts back up and continues the ride into Mancesham. Getting closer, the city walls and smoke from crafting and production loom in front of them from across a great bridge. Thia challenges Brottor to a competition of athleticism by attempting to swim across the river, and as he accepts, the rest of the group continues on to investigate the city gates. While Melios speaks with a Verdant Watch guard at the gate, and the others begin to stable their horses nearby, Brottor wins the race as Thia is nearly washed away in the river current. Luckily, she snaps out of her panic and becomes an otter to efficiently swim back upstream and retrieve her equipment.   Re-grouping, the party heads into the city and begin to investigate the city's many inns, when Ana splits away from the party, mentioning business she needs to attend to. The others explore a bit further before deciding to head into a large building housing The Iron Bird, atop a series of shops, and procuring a multi-person suite on the top floor for several nights.   As they settle in and work to decide on how they should handle their evening, a message arrives from Ana. She'll be busy for several days, and the others will have to entertain themselves with their recent earnings until she returns...