Chapter 4: A New Hope

The party head back to town...

When they reach the river, despite the water being cold, Naeris takes a dip fully clothed to wash off as much of the foul mud of the cesspit as possible from herself and her clothing.

The afternoon has turned rather breezy, and the walk home is chilly. Autumn is around the corner.

Hope's volunteer militia spot the group coming across the plain and crossing the river. The bowmen treat you differently this time, shouting "The heroes have returned!" rather than knocking arrows. The town bell rings and Sheriff Ruth Willowmane emerges from the constabulary, dressed in her Arkasian armor. She strides over to meet you.

"Hail friends. Did the Night Blades take kindly to your visit?"

As Hilmar tells his tale, other townspeople start gathering, clearly anxious to find out how things went. You recognize Rose (the girl who was mind controlled into service with the Night Blades) and her mother Daisy (who baked you muffins); Amanda, owner of the Summerspring Inn and local expert; and Gavun Grayhorn who runs the outfitter's shop. Others gather as well, including some of the kids that Kaa played with and some of the bowmen that guard the town.

Hilmar has the town on his every word as he recounts the story. They gasp when he reveals that Ralavaz was a prison and that his brother, Gardren, was behind the operation. They cheer as he recounts the fight - the young children break into sword fighting with sticks, unable to contain their excitement. But when he mentions the demon, a somber hush falls over everyone. When he describe's the demon's demise, the townfolks breathes a collective sigh of relief.

As Naeris and Alfrey explain Ralavaz's situation the town shuffles uneasily, but they hang off every word that the heroes say.

Ruth is first to respond. "Hilmar, that is quite the tale. We can't thank you enough for your help."

"About Ralavaz ... he wasn't the only one who did wrong those many years ago when he first lead the Night Blades. Burning those bandits alive was a cruel and evil thing for our leaders to do, and it opened the door for dark retribution. Hearing that Ralavaz was ready to sacrifice himself to help save our town despite what we did to him and his brother, well, that's proof enough for me to let him join the community. "

There is a murmur of agreement from among the crowd. With the matter settled, Ruth continues.

"We did promise to gift you the contents of the Arkasian vaults. We'd like to present these to you tonight, at a feast to honor your deeds. We'll set it up at the Summerspring Inn, under the big hand. While we get that set up, you can all get cleaned and patched up and take a well-deserved break. Sound good?"

Ralavaz is happy to hear that Sheriff Willowmane is open to him. When he comes across the river, a hush falls over the townsfolk. He approaches, his eyes avoiding contact.

"I, uh ..." he starts and stops. He tries a few more times to find the words, clearly getting choked up. Eventually he manages to say "I'm sorry," his voice raw with emotion and regret.

Ruth responds. "Thank you, Ralavaz. And for what it's worth, so are we." Ralavaz isn't able to answer with words, but he nods.

Ruth continues. "What do you say we start fresh? Focus on the future, not the past. We could always use another strong sword arm around here, and there's plenty of farmland. But late in the year to plant, but we'll help you through the winter and set you up for next spring."

"That's ... mighty generous. I'd be honored."

The two exchange a firm handshake and the townsfolk gather around to welcome him. A few walk way, however. It looks like it will take some time to build trust.

The party has a chance to head over to the Summerspring Inn afterward to get changed and cleaned up. Amanda cracks open a few bottles of vintage Arkasian wines and makes sure there are no dry throats in the party.

Anyone who heads down to the hotsprings experiences the healing benefits and mind-cleansing effects of the natural mineral water (heal 1d4 hp).

Alfrey seeks out the local temple, an ancient, open-air building of stone. The townsfolk have kept in in good order, although it is clear Inside it is quiet and solemn where he is able to reflect on the day's miraculous and demonic twists and turns. The location is perfect for solitude and prayer. Ralavaz eventually comes and joins him, and asks many questions about the faith of the platinum dragon.

As Hilmar meditates in the steam, a vision arises in his mind. The voice of his old Master, Helvetius, speaks from a hundred miles away.

"Hilmar, my dear boy. Good show. I am pleased you put your magical talents to good use. What did I tell you, that old sleep spell gets them every time! The town of Hope is in good hands now."