14 Pelorus, 4520: Verdant Isle Visitation

Arkomir writes...   We got ourselves moving at a decent hour this morning. After a quick breakfast, we finalized plans with Lyria for a short visit to Verdant Isle. Once that was in place, we made our way over to Mage’s Armoury to stock up for the mission ahead. Their inventory was solid — not overly extensive, but reliable. Between us, we picked up:

2 Potions of Healing

2 Potions of Greater Healing

1 Potion of Hill Giant Strength

Dharra also found a small Steinwark-made dagger for Devlin — a token from the East. I picked up a short vest to help obscure my armor and blend in a little more. While there, I also purchased paper, inks, and quills for Kezahr, a summer dress for Holly, and some fresh bed linens for the Chandlerveil — a little something to bring a touch of comfort back home. With our shopping and brief tour of Steinwark wrapped up, we turned our attention to preparations for the return trip. Dharra spent some time at the cornerstone in the Shield Wall, sketching and marking to aid in magical alignment for her spell.   Lyria then guided us to a quiet stone section of Harbourview — discrete enough for the spellcasting. Dharra sent a quick message to Devlin, and we all readied ourselves: Lyria, Sigismund, and I taking positions. I did my best to reassure them. Planar travel isn’t exactly mundane for everyone. Dharra opened the portal, shimmering into form. I stepped through first, then Lyria and Sigismund followed, and finally Dharra brought up the rear, the portal closing behind her.   "Welcome to Verdant Isle," she said, and we found ourselves standing in the Main Hall above the settlement.   We were greeted warmly by Devlin, along with Arven, Bryndis, Thrain, and Zeph. Isadora arrived through the main doors just as we landed, and Krail and Durgash loitered near the rear of the hall. Lyria and Sigismund seemed to have taken the journey well enough — though both were visibly awed by their surroundings. Isadora pulled me aside for a moment and let me know that Kezahr was waiting for me in the library upstairs. She also mentioned the tower’s construction was nearly complete. I excused myself and made my way up, greeted by Fafnir just outside the library door. After a quick word with him, I stepped inside.   Kezahr was there — radiant and calm. We exchanged gifts and words, and I told her that I wanted to rebuild this broken world with her at my side. She told me that her time in Confluence had helped her find clarity. There were no more words needed. We fell into each other’s arms as Fafnir stood guard outside. Meanwhile, Dharra led the others on a tour of the settlement. Sigismund grew visibly emotional at the Heritage Wall, taking time to sit and read through the names. Lyria was practically speechless with wonder. The gardens outside were thriving, carefully tended, and the Embassy had seen significant progress. By the time the tour returned to the Main Hall, Holly had arrived, and her excited hug with Dharra nearly knocked the wind out of her. Kezahr and I eventually made our way downstairs again, and I caught up with Holly — giving her the dress I'd picked up, and checking in. The tour resumed, this time into Glade’s Tower — or at least the areas we were comfortable sharing. Lyria and Sigismund were both deeply impressed.   We planned a meal for that evening, open to all residents and guests. It was a wonderful spread — dishes from both the island and supplies brought from Belhaim. Dharra performed, supplementing her music with Major Image illusions. The result was stunning. The crowd was enraptured and gave her a long, well-earned ovation. While Dharra played, Isadora sidled over and asked for an update. I filled her in on everything:

Glade’s Folly

Darin’s Fall

The Hall of Shrines

The Unclaimed Lands

The Shards

Dunkelgrun East

The Hag, Quercaya, and Rhubarb

The Beltway

Krieg Chest

Jotanswatch

And finally, Steinwark.

Sigismund had a fantastic time — finding kinship with our resident dwarves. Lyria, for her part, was starstruck upon meeting Isadora and could hardly contain her admiration. Holly danced without a care in the world, and her joy was infectious. At some point, Dharra and Devlin disappeared to his quarters. Kezahr and I followed suit a bit later. We got a long rest… of sorts.   It was good to be home.