Hamish wakes up early to watch the sunrise and enjoy the peace of the morning. When Nova gets back, he will move to sit near the group. "Well, I've gotta tell you all. All of this is really exciting. I don't know why but I have a strong feeling that things are going to work out fine. Phandalin sounds like a good plan. Is everyone ready to leave?"
Nova just beams from Onu's enthusiasm and praise, hips wiggling. She did good. Then her mismatch eyes ping to KD before she bounces over with her arms in the air. "Mmhmm! Mmhmm! Sounds like a plan!" She spins. "Let's do eeet!" No matter what the plan, Nova usually gets distracted anyways but always trusts someone, or her instincts, to eventually guide her back on the right path.
Reviewing her notes, KD would be reminded that close examination of the bell reveals that it’s thin sides are solid gold covered with peeling copper paint. The bell, which is 3 feet wide and weighs 50 pounds, hangs from an iron fixture bolted to a wooden crossbeam. Someone with carpenter’s tools or smith’s tools can use them to detach the bell from the beam in about 1 minute. (Post #1122)
(To add, the belfry can be reached from outside by climbing the outer walls and rooftop, which requires a successful DC 15 Strength (Athletics) check.)
Fae places a gentle hand on Nova's shoulder to pause her from making herself too dizzy. She'd spin until she'd lose her breakfast if they let her. Hopefully it wasn't too late. Before Fae could say anything, Nova would wobble and wander off to the other room. "Should we keep to the road, it will take us the whole day to reach Phandalin." She says to prepare the group for the trek ahead. "Twelve hours without stops." The wizard reminds. "The first hour takes us back to Conyberry where we can continue along the Triboar Trail to Phandalin."
Ting!
Looking over, Nova had been returning from her meander when she'd walk into the doorway. She had a big rusty pot on her head. Correcting her trajectory, she makes it through and scampers over. "I found pot!" Nova's voice echoes from inside the large iron pot. "Get cookin' good lookin'!" She gestures in jest to where she thinks KD or Hal are. "Might be a bit filthy..." She murmurs after taking a deep sniff, then pulls it off her head.
Cooking... Pot... Thinking about the bell, KD would be inspired that they could always melt down the bell to something less bulky. However, that'd take time. And heat. Gold melts at 1068C. That’s about five times hotter than the average kitchen oven. They may have to pay a visit to their friendly neighborhood blacksmith again...
Should the group decide to trust the bell to remain hidden for now, as their back up cache...
Continue:
Once clear that they were leaving this space, Nova would start to hum a tidy up song to herself. "Clean up, clean up, everybody, every where. Clean up, clean up, everybody, do their share." And together the group works on cleaning up after themselves, making sure to leave it cleaner than they arrived. Satisfied, Nova would dust her hands off like a job well done. It was a good thing the group got an early morning start with all their preparations. They were finally ready to set out for their day.
Together the group steps out of Savras' Shrine into the bright morning sunlight. All could hear the deepest inhale coming from none other than Nova. She just loved the fresh air. Hal feels a tap on his shoulder. "RACE YOU!" Nova blurts in a burst of energy. And with that, she kicks up dirt she takes off to lead the way, leaving a cloud of dust in her wake.
"It's best to let her tire herself out." Fae offers a small smile and begins her walk, at an even pace. She trusted that between Nova and Hal they'd be able to keep them informed of anything up ahead. And should they find themselves in any trouble, they'd manage together until the rest of them caught up.
Already familiar with the route to Conyberry the group makes good time.
Conyberry
Coming from the southern dirt road, you all are familiar with the small farming village Conyberry which consisted of around a dozen houses standing close to the eastern side of Neverwinter Wood, sheltering within the forest edge like many such villages in the area. The neighboring homesteads and farms extended east and south, separated by a small cart track leading to Triboard. The Triboard trail that will lead you back to Phandalin runs right through this abandoned town that was sacked by barbarians years ago. It still lies in it's familiar ruins from when you were here just yesterday.
However, walking towards the area anyone looking closely would come to notice that it looked like thing were recently turned over, as if sifted through last night. Listening closer, some may be able to hear something. Nova? Hal?
Onu sees KD give Hal the signal to scamper forward and loosens the blade in its hidden slot in his walking stick. He continues to walk down the center of the road, chattering loudly with Nova, but actively working to keep all his companions in sight and in line.
'Well, yes my dear I do find tea to have a regulating effect on my constitution, rather a helpful application for those of us with, shall we say irregular habits forced upon us by a life on the road'
As Hammy scans the village ahead, Onu makes a point to steer Nova and Fae towards the edge of the road where he can get them in cover quickly if need be.
Nova scurries off through the bushes with Hal in tow. As they do, Hamish is able to see them head off towards the remains of the church. He hears them before he sees them.
“Hey I know you!” It was Nova’s voice. “You ran off with the pretty stag!” He hears her gasp the sees her pop out of the bushes up. “I know you too!” She appears to be talking to two individuals. One an impeccably beautiful male elf with flowing hair, and the other a very scholarly Dragonborn with vibrant scales. “Are you guys going somewhere?”
The Dragonborn was glowing slightly green, he speaks calmly from where he sits. "Indeed, our erstwhile companions hath met thee once upon a time...Thou art called Nova, correct?" He asks.
The gorgeous elf’s face lights up in recognition of Nova. “Oh, hello there! Why as a matter of fact, we are off to visit some orcs that...”The man pauses then adds: “To be honest, I can't recall exactly what manner of naughtiness they are accused of. Would you like to come along?”
While Fae would love to hear Onu tell Nova more about his morning constitutions and share the wisdom of their tea drinker’s ‘tricks of the trade’, they had company. Onu feels Fae place a gentle hand on his arm to reassure him that she was safe. Stepping forward, Fae looks into the shadows of some of the ruins. She raises her elbow and a raven flutters down onto her elbow. “Hello, Mr. Dark.”
"You... you know them." KD says. She looks to Hal and gives a look that says, "we good?" and waits for a response. She steps forward. "Orcs? We just dispatched a band, along with some ogres. They were up to naughtiness. They are no longer. How do you know each other, once upon a time?" She motions for the metal monkey to keep Nova safe in case things are not what they seem.
Hamish is unnerved by the new arrivals. He moves moves forward to be with the group and keeps an eye on them. He listens intently as Fae speaks. He is itchy and nervous.
Nova continues yammering on to the cleric and dragonborn as KD steps forward, essentially reiterating what the artificer just said. “Naughty orcs? We just spanked some naughty orcs over at the shrine.” She gestures over her shoulder in the direction to Savras Shrine. “Are you going that way?” She asks and then she starts to tap her nose. “What way were we are going?” Nova spins around a couple times in an effort to orient herself and buy time to remember what she was doing. “Right! We are on our way to Phandalin before heading out tomorrow to a dragon’s burrow!” She bounces. “I just wanted to make sure yous guys don’t blast us thinking we be some crazy squatters or something!” Nova leans to KD, I'll tell ya later. And winks.
The tall dark dressed man Fae was greeting looks over at Nova. He glances at the raven on Fae's arm, then back at Nova, then back at the raven. He subconsciously places a protective hand over his small pocket. "Oh...hi there Nova. Nice to see you. I hope the pups are doing good. We'll try not to blast you......or your crow."
"Not just me and Rasmus, sir Dark!" Nova pshaws at the man. "My friends here too!" She beams. "There are...." Putting up her hands, the woman concentrates really hard to count. "7 of us?" She counts again. That was about right when she included herself, Hal, the crow, Fae, KD, Onu and Hamish. Nova holds up 7 fingers to show him.
"I'm called KD,"KD says, speaking only for herself and her defender, not wanting to reveal more than Onu and Hal want. "That metal monkey there is Hal. So we have Mr. Dark, and who else? Were you looking for something in Conyberry? Or just passing through in pursuit of orcs? And what will you be doing now that the orcs have been dealt with?"
She's trying to figure out what exactly is going on here. She looks at Fae with a crooked eyebrow. Then, to Onu, a small hand signal meaning, "status?"
"My name is Hamish Morgella, Acolyte of Kelemvor. It is a good, I mean, a pleasure to meet you."He had been practicing his introduction in his mind ahead of time but was still taken over by his nerves. Anyone watching closely would notice an almost imperceptible wince and his shoulders slump slightly.
"No surprise that baby Hammy mucked it up again. No wonder he doesn't speak to you. You should crawl back to mommy and see if they'll even take you." The inner voice was feeling mean lately.
”Having thine company wouldst please me greatly,” replies the dragonborn to Nova before adding to KD, “For we are endeavoring to defeat the dastardly arcanists who prod the orcs into their malfeasance near the Hunting Lodge, unless thy intrepid company hast already accomplished this task.”
KD realizes he's referencing: (Which is different from Savras' Shrine, therefore there are more orcs.) Woodland Manse Quest. “The orcs have fallen under the sway of evil spellcasters in Neverwinter Wood, and have been sighted in growing numbers near Falcon’s Hunting Lodge. The spellcasters dwell in a ruined manse. Falcon needs someone to make a preemptive strike against it. Destroy the evil in the manse, then expect him to reward you.”
The beautiful elf looks around to account for the six people Nova speaks of. He then remembers the wretch that attacked them, and wonders if that is one of the six. Er... perhaps we met one of your 'friends' already. Then looking at Dark he asks: Where is that chap anyway?
There's a bound and gagged berseker passed out snoring in his own filth. No one would recognize him as anyone of note with the exception of all the signs of an unpredictable berserker who are known come together in war parties and seek conflict wherever they can find it. Not much different from your average bandit.
Fae would speak up in an effort to ease any tensions or confusions. "Of course you all know Nova." Positioning herself with each group on either side, the wizard would pull her hood down. "My name is Fae." She bows slightly as she hasn't ever formally introduced herself to the others. "This is Rasmus." She gives the crow scritches before gesturing to the others. "This is KD, Hal, Hamish and Onu. They are adventurers and just assisted me with eradicating the orc's, and ogres, that plagued Savras' shrine." She explains. "We are on our way back from the Shrine."
The wizard then motions to point out the others from the other group. "This is Auric." She motions to the scholarly dragonborn. "Hansel." The handsome elf. "Mr. Dark, Rasmus' 'biggest fan'." The man of few words. "Xenophon." A dragonborn of even fewer words but large in size. "They are also adventurers. Nova had assisted them on an endeavor a little while back, and they were the group that sent her with the warning about the wererats at the mines for you." She explains to KD for Nova. "And this is Stacey. You may recognize them as the bartender at Stonehill." Fae points out the bartender at the back of the group.
"Stacey!!!" Nova exclaims when she comes to realize the redhead had been standing off to the side so quietly. With an excited bob, the young woman runs and leaps to cling onto Stacey in her excitement. Nova is caught with ease as Stacey accepts her with strong arms and a soft chuckle.
(You've officially ran into the other group! In an effort to avoid any misunderstandings, you have now have been introduced:
- rkmobius as KD and monkey Hal - Sa1nt_Pat as Hamish - DirePilgrim as Onu - Ixi PC Fae - Ixi PC Nova
- Scott_R_Simmons as Auric - ZorgAlmighty as Hansel - NathanPizazz as Mr. Dark - SarcasticFury as Xenophon - Ixi PC Stacey
- An bound unconscious berserker who attacked them at Conyberry. He's just a squatter, not much different than your average bandit.)
Onu steps forward, pulling his hat off his head and executing an ornate bow in front of the newcomers 'Well met friends and fellow travelers! Well met indeed.'
Anyone watching closely would see that the bow was an elaborate cover for a series of quick hand signs to KD 'seem safe enough, standard spread and protocol'
As he rights himself, the well-dressed man moves himself to the front of the group, gesturing with his hands and complimenting each of the newcomers effusively, actively chatting them up and drawing attention to himself. It's a practiced bit, a little razzle-dazzle to give KD time to set up the marks - old habits die hard. Even if they didn't intend to rob them - are we? I don't think so, right? - it's still good practice to keep strangers off balance and keep as much control of these situations as possible.
Prior to Onu stepping forward for his introduction Hansel's face lights up as more people emerge. His first instinct as introductions are given is to go forward and give everyone a warm handshake, or even a warm hug. But the finely-dressed Onu seemed a bit too guarded, the cleric Hamish a bit too twitchy, and the metal-monkey-master KD a little untrusting. Too soon for hugs. Nova still unsettled Hansel with her blemished mismatched eyes, and Nova... well he'd never met her before, but she seemed less uptight than the others. Still too soon for hugs though. Polite words will have to do.
”Hello there everyone. So nice to have more company! Would anyone like some refreshment?”
”Ah, yes, so wouldst I presume,” answers Auric, “The manse near the hunting lodge mayhaps indeed be a shrine.” Considering the opportunity, he adds, “Additional allies against the Draconic foe wouldst be quite fortuitous, thinkest thou also?”
Hansel takes a few moments to process Auric's sentence then replies in the affirmative.
Checking his map, Auric clears his throat and says, “Ah…Savras’ Shrine, didst thou proclaim? Thy quest was to the south, but the Woodland Manse of mine intrepid group laith yet north—mayhaps even the font of orcish insurgency in this beset region.”
Mr.Dark nods his hello to the influx of new faces and people. He finds some place to lean and look casual as he watches them all silently, waiting to hear the outcome of Auric's fancily worded questions.
[Then I’ll have Onu step forward with his Hello etc.]
Onu steps forward, pulling his hat off his head and executing an ornate bow in front of the newcomers 'Well met friends and fellow travelers! Well met indeed.'
Anyone watching closely would see that the bow was an elaborate cover for a series of quick hand signs to KD 'seem safe enough, standard spread and protocol'
As he rights himself, the well-dressed man moves himself to the front of the group, gesturing with his hands and complimenting each of the newcomers effusively, actively chatting them up and drawing attention to himself. It's a practiced bit, a little razzle-dazzle to give KD time to set up the marks - old habits die hard. Even if they didn't intend to rob them - are we? I don't think so, right? - it's still good practice to keep strangers off balance and keep as much control of these situations as possible.
[Apologies, trying to coordinate two threads at the same time, and I’m doing a bit poorly at timing the conversations to line up with each other lol]
[Essentially Hansel and Auric were discussing and figuring out that Savras’ Shrine is separate from Woodland Manse. You guys have cleared Savras’ Shrine, south of Conyberry, of orcs, however, there are still Orc’s occupying Woodland Manse which is to the north of Conyberry. The group members you’ve run into are heading to Woodland Manse and have invited you group to join them, if you would like. The group is not obligated to pair up, and may continue on to Phandalin if they so choose.]
KD's posture relaxes as the others speak more welcomingly. Her mouth eases into a smile that reaches her eye, and she speaks up to the new group, "Allies and resources to fight a dragon would be welcome. We were headed to the burrow to perhaps find some assets there. I don't think any of us are game for tangling with a dragon, but we have information about it that suggests we do not have all the time in the world if we want to stand a chance. But I think the Manse is on the way to town, so perhaps it won't add too much to our time. We help you out, share any spoils, and then head to Phandalin, and we can talk about you joining our trip to the burrow?"
She realizes she's over her skis here a bit and hopes Onu doesn't chide her for it too badly afterwards. Those orcs in the shrine were a lot to handle, and who knows what comes next. They could feel out the new group and see if they're a value-add. She tries to size each of them up to see if they seem like they've seen some action or are greener than she was. What are their apparently strengths and qualities?
"I should say that I'm a bit of an arcane tinkerer. You see Hal there. I made him, and fiddle with other things. I do better working at a distance. And I never get lost."
(Auric is a golden dragonborn who is dressed in sturdy but worn travelling clothes. He has no armor and carries what looks like a wand and an orb, marking him as a likely spellcaster. His hands are currently close to neither, both being occupied by a large tome with a picture of a Flumph on it. He seems to be glowing a faint green at the moment, which in itself is somewhat odd, but not indicative of any powerful magic. His manner of speech mark him as quite foreign to this region of the world, and indeed his mannerisms seem unusual as well--not alien, just different (Far Traveler background).
Xenophon is a topaz dragonborn that's wearing simpler clothes and heavier armor, with a large maul on his person. He's also carrying a pot that's roughly the size of his head.
Hansel Moonflower is the perfect specimen of a man. With the perfect blend of both human and elven features, perfect skin, perfectly salon-styled golden locks, perfect teeth, perfect manly figure... even the aroma and weight of his perfume is perfect. His shield is so perfectly shiny he can see his reflection in it (and often does), and the club he wields - who even wields a club anyway? - well Hansel does, and it looks just perfect on him!
Onu nods as KD glances his way and signs to her assent, more bodies, more help would be well.... helpful.
'And I keep KD and Hal flush with the things they need to continue to tinker!' he chimes in cheerfully before twirling his walking stick and fencing with an invisible foe 'and keep the worst of the baddiest far enough away that KD can blast them!;
Hamish relaxes a bit as the group talks. "So...It looks like it might be a good idea for us to take on this next challenge together. I feel like I should be up front with everyone. I've been infected with lycanthropy. Don't worry. I haven't turned or anything and I know how to fix it. I just need to learn some more. Do any of you happen to have any experience with this? We've already discussed as a group that I may need to be put down if I turn before I can get cured. I just want all of you to know. There's nothing to be scared of."
Hamish wakes up early to watch the sunrise and enjoy the peace of the morning. When Nova gets back, he will move to sit near the group. "Well, I've gotta tell you all. All of this is really exciting. I don't know why but I have a strong feeling that things are going to work out fine. Phandalin sounds like a good plan. Is everyone ready to leave?"
Nova just beams from Onu's enthusiasm and praise, hips wiggling. She did good. Then her mismatch eyes ping to KD before she bounces over with her arms in the air. "Mmhmm! Mmhmm! Sounds like a plan!" She spins. "Let's do eeet!" No matter what the plan, Nova usually gets distracted anyways but always trusts someone, or her instincts, to eventually guide her back on the right path.
Reviewing her notes, KD would be reminded that close examination of the bell reveals that it’s thin sides are solid gold covered with peeling copper paint. The bell, which is 3 feet wide and weighs 50 pounds, hangs from an iron fixture bolted to a wooden crossbeam. Someone with carpenter’s tools or smith’s tools can use them to detach the bell from the beam in about 1 minute. (Post #1122)
(To add, the belfry can be reached from outside by climbing the outer walls and rooftop, which requires a successful DC 15 Strength (Athletics) check.)
Fae places a gentle hand on Nova's shoulder to pause her from making herself too dizzy. She'd spin until she'd lose her breakfast if they let her. Hopefully it wasn't too late. Before Fae could say anything, Nova would wobble and wander off to the other room. "Should we keep to the road, it will take us the whole day to reach Phandalin." She says to prepare the group for the trek ahead. "Twelve hours without stops." The wizard reminds. "The first hour takes us back to Conyberry where we can continue along the Triboar Trail to Phandalin."
Ting!
Looking over, Nova had been returning from her meander when she'd walk into the doorway. She had a big rusty pot on her head. Correcting her trajectory, she makes it through and scampers over. "I found pot!" Nova's voice echoes from inside the large iron pot. "Get cookin' good lookin'!" She gestures in jest to where she thinks KD or Hal are. "Might be a bit filthy..." She murmurs after taking a deep sniff, then pulls it off her head.
Cooking... Pot... Thinking about the bell, KD would be inspired that they could always melt down the bell to something less bulky. However, that'd take time. And heat. Gold melts at 1068C. That’s about five times hotter than the average kitchen oven. They may have to pay a visit to their friendly neighborhood blacksmith again...
Should the group decide to trust the bell to remain hidden for now, as their back up cache...
Continue:
Once clear that they were leaving this space, Nova would start to hum a tidy up song to herself. "Clean up, clean up, everybody, every where. Clean up, clean up, everybody, do their share." And together the group works on cleaning up after themselves, making sure to leave it cleaner than they arrived. Satisfied, Nova would dust her hands off like a job well done. It was a good thing the group got an early morning start with all their preparations. They were finally ready to set out for their day.
Together the group steps out of Savras' Shrine into the bright morning sunlight. All could hear the deepest inhale coming from none other than Nova. She just loved the fresh air. Hal feels a tap on his shoulder. "RACE YOU!" Nova blurts in a burst of energy. And with that, she kicks up dirt she takes off to lead the way, leaving a cloud of dust in her wake.
"It's best to let her tire herself out." Fae offers a small smile and begins her walk, at an even pace. She trusted that between Nova and Hal they'd be able to keep them informed of anything up ahead. And should they find themselves in any trouble, they'd manage together until the rest of them caught up.
Already familiar with the route to Conyberry the group makes good time.
Conyberry
Coming from the southern dirt road, you all are familiar with the small farming village Conyberry which consisted of around a dozen houses standing close to the eastern side of Neverwinter Wood, sheltering within the forest edge like many such villages in the area. The neighboring homesteads and farms extended east and south, separated by a small cart track leading to Triboard. The Triboard trail that will lead you back to Phandalin runs right through this abandoned town that was sacked by barbarians years ago. It still lies in it's familiar ruins from when you were here just yesterday.
However, walking towards the area anyone looking closely would come to notice that it looked like thing were recently turned over, as if sifted through last night. Listening closer, some may be able to hear something. Nova? Hal?
Perception Check!
Roll Call: Anyone!
just an unstable unicorn.
KD sends Hal ahead to look around - and offers to help keep an eye out for whoever is trying to spot things…
Hammy perception roll with help - 13
Onu sees KD give Hal the signal to scamper forward and loosens the blade in its hidden slot in his walking stick. He continues to walk down the center of the road, chattering loudly with Nova, but actively working to keep all his companions in sight and in line.
'Well, yes my dear I do find tea to have a regulating effect on my constitution, rather a helpful application for those of us with, shall we say irregular habits forced upon us by a life on the road'
As Hammy scans the village ahead, Onu makes a point to steer Nova and Fae towards the edge of the road where he can get them in cover quickly if need be.
Nova scurries off through the bushes with Hal in tow. As they do, Hamish is able to see them head off towards the remains of the church. He hears them before he sees them.
“Hey I know you!” It was Nova’s voice. “You ran off with the pretty stag!” He hears her gasp the sees her pop out of the bushes up. “I know you too!” She appears to be talking to two individuals. One an impeccably beautiful male elf with flowing hair, and the other a very scholarly Dragonborn with vibrant scales. “Are you guys going somewhere?”
The Dragonborn was glowing slightly green, he speaks calmly from where he sits. "Indeed, our erstwhile companions hath met thee once upon a time...Thou art called Nova, correct?" He asks.
The gorgeous elf’s face lights up in recognition of Nova. “Oh, hello there! Why as a matter of fact, we are off to visit some orcs that...”The man pauses then adds: “To be honest, I can't recall exactly what manner of naughtiness they are accused of. Would you like to come along?”
While Fae would love to hear Onu tell Nova more about his morning constitutions and share the wisdom of their tea drinker’s ‘tricks of the trade’, they had company. Onu feels Fae place a gentle hand on his arm to reassure him that she was safe. Stepping forward, Fae looks into the shadows of some of the ruins. She raises her elbow and a raven flutters down onto her elbow. “Hello, Mr. Dark.”
just an unstable unicorn.
"You... you know them." KD says. She looks to Hal and gives a look that says, "we good?" and waits for a response. She steps forward. "Orcs? We just dispatched a band, along with some ogres. They were up to naughtiness. They are no longer. How do you know each other, once upon a time?" She motions for the metal monkey to keep Nova safe in case things are not what they seem.
Hamish is unnerved by the new arrivals. He moves moves forward to be with the group and keeps an eye on them. He listens intently as Fae speaks. He is itchy and nervous.
Nova continues yammering on to the cleric and dragonborn as KD steps forward, essentially reiterating what the artificer just said. “Naughty orcs? We just spanked some naughty orcs over at the shrine.” She gestures over her shoulder in the direction to Savras Shrine. “Are you going that way?” She asks and then she starts to tap her nose. “What way were we are going?” Nova spins around a couple times in an effort to orient herself and buy time to remember what she was doing. “Right! We are on our way to Phandalin before heading out tomorrow to a dragon’s burrow!” She bounces. “I just wanted to make sure yous guys don’t blast us thinking we be some crazy squatters or something!” Nova leans to KD, I'll tell ya later. And winks.
The tall dark dressed man Fae was greeting looks over at Nova. He glances at the raven on Fae's arm, then back at Nova, then back at the raven. He subconsciously places a protective hand over his small pocket. "Oh...hi there Nova. Nice to see you. I hope the pups are doing good. We'll try not to blast you......or your crow."
"Not just me and Rasmus, sir Dark!" Nova pshaws at the man. "My friends here too!" She beams. "There are...." Putting up her hands, the woman concentrates really hard to count. "7 of us?" She counts again. That was about right when she included herself, Hal, the crow, Fae, KD, Onu and Hamish. Nova holds up 7 fingers to show him.
just an unstable unicorn.
"I'm called KD," KD says, speaking only for herself and her defender, not wanting to reveal more than Onu and Hal want. "That metal monkey there is Hal. So we have Mr. Dark, and who else? Were you looking for something in Conyberry? Or just passing through in pursuit of orcs? And what will you be doing now that the orcs have been dealt with?"
She's trying to figure out what exactly is going on here. She looks at Fae with a crooked eyebrow. Then, to Onu, a small hand signal meaning, "status?"
"My name is Hamish Morgella, Acolyte of Kelemvor. It is a good, I mean, a pleasure to meet you." He had been practicing his introduction in his mind ahead of time but was still taken over by his nerves. Anyone watching closely would notice an almost imperceptible wince and his shoulders slump slightly.
"No surprise that baby Hammy mucked it up again. No wonder he doesn't speak to you. You should crawl back to mommy and see if they'll even take you." The inner voice was feeling mean lately.
”Having thine company wouldst please me greatly,” replies the dragonborn to Nova before adding to KD, “For we are endeavoring to defeat the dastardly arcanists who prod the orcs into their malfeasance near the Hunting Lodge, unless thy intrepid company hast already accomplished this task.”
KD realizes he's referencing:
(Which is different from Savras' Shrine, therefore there are more orcs.)
Woodland Manse Quest.
“The orcs have fallen under the sway of evil spellcasters in Neverwinter Wood, and have been sighted in growing numbers near Falcon’s Hunting Lodge. The spellcasters dwell in a ruined manse. Falcon needs someone to make a preemptive strike against it. Destroy the evil in the manse, then expect him to reward you.”
The beautiful elf looks around to account for the six people Nova speaks of. He then remembers the wretch that attacked them, and wonders if that is one of the six. Er... perhaps we met one of your 'friends' already. Then looking at Dark he asks: Where is that chap anyway?
There's a bound and gagged berseker passed out snoring in his own filth. No one would recognize him as anyone of note with the exception of all the signs of an unpredictable berserker who are known come together in war parties and seek conflict wherever they can find it. Not much different from your average bandit.
Fae would speak up in an effort to ease any tensions or confusions. "Of course you all know Nova." Positioning herself with each group on either side, the wizard would pull her hood down. "My name is Fae." She bows slightly as she hasn't ever formally introduced herself to the others. "This is Rasmus." She gives the crow scritches before gesturing to the others. "This is KD, Hal, Hamish and Onu. They are adventurers and just assisted me with eradicating the orc's, and ogres, that plagued Savras' shrine." She explains. "We are on our way back from the Shrine."
The wizard then motions to point out the others from the other group. "This is Auric." She motions to the scholarly dragonborn. "Hansel." The handsome elf. "Mr. Dark, Rasmus' 'biggest fan'." The man of few words. "Xenophon." A dragonborn of even fewer words but large in size. "They are also adventurers. Nova had assisted them on an endeavor a little while back, and they were the group that sent her with the warning about the wererats at the mines for you." She explains to KD for Nova. "And this is Stacey. You may recognize them as the bartender at Stonehill." Fae points out the bartender at the back of the group.
"Stacey!!!" Nova exclaims when she comes to realize the redhead had been standing off to the side so quietly. With an excited bob, the young woman runs and leaps to cling onto Stacey in her excitement. Nova is caught with ease as Stacey accepts her with strong arms and a soft chuckle.
(You've officially ran into the other group! In an effort to avoid any misunderstandings, you have now have been introduced:
- rkmobius as KD and monkey Hal
- Sa1nt_Pat as Hamish
- DirePilgrim as Onu
- Ixi PC Fae
- Ixi PC Nova
- Scott_R_Simmons as Auric
- ZorgAlmighty as Hansel
- NathanPizazz as Mr. Dark
- SarcasticFury as Xenophon
- Ixi PC Stacey
- An bound unconscious berserker who attacked them at Conyberry. He's just a squatter, not much different than your average bandit.)
just an unstable unicorn.
Merry met!
Onu steps forward, pulling his hat off his head and executing an ornate bow in front of the newcomers 'Well met friends and fellow travelers! Well met indeed.'
Anyone watching closely would see that the bow was an elaborate cover for a series of quick hand signs to KD 'seem safe enough, standard spread and protocol'
As he rights himself, the well-dressed man moves himself to the front of the group, gesturing with his hands and complimenting each of the newcomers effusively, actively chatting them up and drawing attention to himself. It's a practiced bit, a little razzle-dazzle to give KD time to set up the marks - old habits die hard. Even if they didn't intend to rob them - are we? I don't think so, right? - it's still good practice to keep strangers off balance and keep as much control of these situations as possible.
Prior to Onu stepping forward for his introduction Hansel's face lights up as more people emerge. His first instinct as introductions are given is to go forward and give everyone a warm handshake, or even a warm hug. But the finely-dressed Onu seemed a bit too guarded, the cleric Hamish a bit too twitchy, and the metal-monkey-master KD a little untrusting. Too soon for hugs. Nova still unsettled Hansel with her blemished mismatched eyes, and Nova... well he'd never met her before, but she seemed less uptight than the others. Still too soon for hugs though. Polite words will have to do.
”Hello there everyone. So nice to have more company! Would anyone like some refreshment?”
”Ah, yes, so wouldst I presume,” answers Auric, “The manse near the hunting lodge mayhaps indeed be a shrine.” Considering the opportunity, he adds, “Additional allies against the Draconic foe wouldst be quite fortuitous, thinkest thou also?”
Hansel takes a few moments to process Auric's sentence then replies in the affirmative.
Checking his map, Auric clears his throat and says, “Ah…Savras’ Shrine, didst thou proclaim? Thy quest was to the south, but the Woodland Manse of mine intrepid group laith yet north—mayhaps even the font of orcish insurgency in this beset region.”
Mr.Dark nods his hello to the influx of new faces and people. He finds some place to lean and look casual as he watches them all silently, waiting to hear the outcome of Auric's fancily worded questions.
[Then I’ll have Onu step forward with his Hello etc.]
[Apologies, trying to coordinate two threads at the same time, and I’m doing a bit poorly at timing the conversations to line up with each other lol]
[Essentially Hansel and Auric were discussing and figuring out that Savras’ Shrine is separate from Woodland Manse. You guys have cleared Savras’ Shrine, south of Conyberry, of orcs, however, there are still Orc’s occupying Woodland Manse which is to the north of Conyberry. The group members you’ve run into are heading to Woodland Manse and have invited you group to join them, if you would like. The group is not obligated to pair up, and may continue on to Phandalin if they so choose.]
[Link to other groups thread if it helps:The Return of the White Dragon]
just an unstable unicorn.
KD's posture relaxes as the others speak more welcomingly. Her mouth eases into a smile that reaches her eye, and she speaks up to the new group, "Allies and resources to fight a dragon would be welcome. We were headed to the burrow to perhaps find some assets there. I don't think any of us are game for tangling with a dragon, but we have information about it that suggests we do not have all the time in the world if we want to stand a chance. But I think the Manse is on the way to town, so perhaps it won't add too much to our time. We help you out, share any spoils, and then head to Phandalin, and we can talk about you joining our trip to the burrow?"
She realizes she's over her skis here a bit and hopes Onu doesn't chide her for it too badly afterwards. Those orcs in the shrine were a lot to handle, and who knows what comes next. They could feel out the new group and see if they're a value-add. She tries to size each of them up to see if they seem like they've seen some action or are greener than she was. What are their apparently strengths and qualities?
"I should say that I'm a bit of an arcane tinkerer. You see Hal there. I made him, and fiddle with other things. I do better working at a distance. And I never get lost."
(Auric is a golden dragonborn who is dressed in sturdy but worn travelling clothes. He has no armor and carries what looks like a wand and an orb, marking him as a likely spellcaster. His hands are currently close to neither, both being occupied by a large tome with a picture of a Flumph on it. He seems to be glowing a faint green at the moment, which in itself is somewhat odd, but not indicative of any powerful magic. His manner of speech mark him as quite foreign to this region of the world, and indeed his mannerisms seem unusual as well--not alien, just different (Far Traveler background).
Xenophon is a topaz dragonborn that's wearing simpler clothes and heavier armor, with a large maul on his person. He's also carrying a pot that's roughly the size of his head.
Hansel Moonflower is the perfect specimen of a man. With the perfect blend of both human and elven features, perfect skin, perfectly salon-styled golden locks, perfect teeth, perfect manly figure... even the aroma and weight of his perfume is perfect. His shield is so perfectly shiny he can see his reflection in it (and often does), and the club he wields - who even wields a club anyway? - well Hansel does, and it looks just perfect on him!
just an unstable unicorn.
"I would be most amenable to thine offer," says the golden dragonborn, bowing in a foreign style that conveys respect but not subservientness.
just an unstable unicorn.
Onu nods as KD glances his way and signs to her assent, more bodies, more help would be well.... helpful.
'And I keep KD and Hal flush with the things they need to continue to tinker!' he chimes in cheerfully before twirling his walking stick and fencing with an invisible foe 'and keep the worst of the baddiest far enough away that KD can blast them!;
Hamish relaxes a bit as the group talks. "So...It looks like it might be a good idea for us to take on this next challenge together. I feel like I should be up front with everyone. I've been infected with lycanthropy. Don't worry. I haven't turned or anything and I know how to fix it. I just need to learn some more. Do any of you happen to have any experience with this? We've already discussed as a group that I may need to be put down if I turn before I can get cured. I just want all of you to know. There's nothing to be scared of."
Auric:
Somewhat started by this abrupt but honest turn of conversation, Auric ponders what he knows about the affliction of lycanthropy.
Nature: 10
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"