leaving the wetlands and walking through the forest again Pippa comes across another hollow tree. this one is much smaller but it seems someone tried to use it as a stash of sorts. it doesn't look like it belongs to Pippa's recent host, rather someone else
"that's rather curious"
Pippa gets closer to check on it, to see who would be in there
there is noone inside it, it would be too small for even a creature of Pippa's size, but some items are left.
There's a few rations stashed away, mostly dried and cooked venison and some fruits and vegetables. some leather scraps are lying around as well and a piece of woven cotton that holds the food inside
Pippa doesn't have problem yet with food or hunger, so she doesn't feel right stealing that for now.
But she can wait close by to see who live there, maybe ask for clues then
how does Pippa plan to wait by circling around, checking seldomly
waiting around to see who comes to collect their hidden goods, Pippa starts to hear the by now familiar sound of a pan flute. and between the trees the figure of the elven girl appears, playing a slow melody while she walks towards Pippa
"not again. I'm out"
Pippa not longer wants to talk with whom live there, she tries to flee the music without listening to it
the woman stops playing
"Will you stop running away already?"
Pippa doesn't stop, neither for a reply nor a lookout, she keeps her pace away, hoping to get out, now that she's been seen.
the elf sighs and starts playing her instrument again, letting Pippa leave
while Pippa runs away, she wonders what would be the goal of that elven girl, with that music and all the animals.... And what would be Pippa's part in this goal?
pondering that the elven girl wasn't really trying to hunt her, Pippa decides to give her the benefice of doubt.
She walks back to the music, but still being cautious of animals and other possible threats.
when she sees Pippa comes back she puts down her instrument
"Oh? You came back? That's nice."
"I was scared at first... but let's see what that's about."
"This is about our relationship in a sense.... since you have made a pact with me and are using my powers... or at least you are able to. I was interested in you ever since you managed to get away from the hag. And when you traded your offspring for the spell, our contract was complete."
"I'm not sure I'm fully understanding all of that magical stuff... But go on, what would be next now?"
"Well. The more power you want, the more you'd have to offer. What i collect are the unwanted children of this forest. And unlike my other warlocks you apparently do not try to cheat me out of my gains...."
"Other than that.... I do not mind you leaving. While i can't show you the way i won't hinder you if you leave."
"that's good to know, i guess. Thanks for that, i suppose.
May be it's because i'm not on the look for more power now. I would say it's not a priority.
I have to say, during our encounter, i was not under the impression that you were in charge, it looked more to that cloaked figure, but i won't pry much... "
she laughs and waves her hand, the hooded figure appearing behind her
"I am both. If you raise in rank and power maybe i'll share my story with you. For now, whenever you feel you have something that interests me..."
she looks at Pippa's belly
"..invoke the symbol you carry in your eye. I'll come and collect what you wish to offer. For a sliver of my power of course. And should you yourself desire more strength let me know as well, and i'll offer you a bargain."
"Impressive...
I'll keep that offer in mind.
Can i try that now, just to be sure that i will be able to invoke?
Could be a bother if i don't have the right symbol, or something... As magic can be tricky... "
"Go on. It is the same as casting the spell. Shouldn't feel any different."
Pippa tries to get the symbol in her eye, or mind, and to focus on it
it feels similar to the spell invocation, but somewhat shorter. More like an echo within your mind but without any word or sound, just a vibration really. Pippa's vision blurs for an instant then everything is clear again, her patron standing in front of her still
"That seems to work well. Now, what do you wish to offer or ask for?"
there is an undertone of amusement in her voice
"it was just a test call, and you said you couldn't or wouldn't show me a way out. I'll go wandering knowing that i can call for help... Yes, for a price, i know..."
she nods
"Take care. I would be sad to see you die.... Anything else you wish to ask before we part ways?"
"I'll try to live to thoses expectations. Bye."
Comments