Beren is admittedly tempted to leave prior to Lucien's prayer, but seeing how his companions are willing to stay he decides he should as well. He stiffens slightly at the sensation that washes over him, recognizing it and... not really sure how to feel about it. Whatever inclination he'd had to be appreciative disappears immediately however, when Saelethin speaks up.
His only response to her words is a short growl and a brief flare up of the light behind the mask. Then he turns a little too quickly to leave the church, not even noticing Jack's curious glance. He seems extremely tense, doing his best to hold back pent up anger that's only been building since they returned to find Saelethin still present at the church. Now that they know Saelethin will simply be staying there, Beren has little intention of actually returning to the place. Part of him wants to tell Lucien to be careful around the woman, but he doesn't know what words would be best to explain that, and he definitely doesn't want to try anything else with her in the room. Not while she could twist his words around and make him look the fool once more. He still feels a flicker of embarrassment about what happened earlier.
As they follow Jack to the inn, he stays silent. Some of his tenseness washes away the further from the church they get, but he remains sullen-- and the light behind the mask holds a steady glow as if he's staring off at nothing as they walk. This of course changes when they enter the inn, only for a mug to nearly crash into Jack's face. Beren's mask turns towards the unruly youth, the light flaring angrily at the scene he'd just seen unfold. Judging by Urwin and his wife's begrudging restraint in response to the boy's behavior, this boy must be either someone important, or he's related to someone who is. ...unless Beren is reading into this too much. Regardless, after everything that's happened today, he's more than willing to rough up this bastard even if he isn't one of the Wachter kids.
He nods to Jack when the Eladrin wishes them luck, then turns his attention back to the drunken boy. He stands there for a moment clearly thinking about simply jumping into action but instead he turns to Argual and says quietly, "Do you know this drunk?"
After receiving a response, he'll nod and then hand Argual enough money to buy a meal for him and Bluto, "Get yourself some and Bluto some food. I don't care if you want some drink too, just keep Bluto under control for now." He feels a little bad for making Argual babysit the drunk fisherman, but right now he doesn't have the time nor the patience to do it himself. If Argual wants to tie Bluto up and toss him into a room for the night, he doesn't care, so long as the man stays out of the way and out of trouble.
Once those two have moved on (assuming no one else has taken action yet) he'll wordlessly pick up the mug that had previously sailed past Jack's head from where it had fallen to the floor. Then he walks over to the table where the drunk is and sets it in front of him, "I believe this is yours." His voice is low, and laced with barely bridled irritation.
As all the commotion is taking place in the common room of the Blue Water Inn, Nivi remains at the back of the group, her face expressionless.
As Shiv wings inside to perch on a rafter, Nivi murmurs and gestures. Well hidden from the interior of the Inn, her figure and appearance transform to become that of Smiley (Svenka), the guard who had put manacles on Nivi when the group returned from the lake with Arabelle. (Casting Disguise Self).
Despite her altered look, the three other PCs who have spent time around Nivi and heard her speak can tell who it really is from her words and tone as she conceals her daggers in her palm and strides confidently into the common room as Smiley/Svenka might, in her apparent guard uniform.
"Potatoes, Wachter? Thought your dear old mum said her dog liked bones. That's you, yeah? Her pup? Bet you don't know where she kept those bones she got in the house, do you? Like she'd let the yapping drunk of her litter in on anything like that? Or prove me wrong - tell me where the bones are."
(Svenka/Nivi approaches the Wachter lad with both daggers concealed behind her palms, and Shiv perched unobtrusively overhead. She does not think the group will get much out of the drunk, just talking, but she is giving him one chance before attacking non-lethally with the pommels of her daggers).
Entering the inn, and narrowly avoiding a light bludgeoning from a tankard, Jack makes his way to the vaguely perturbed Urwin. Urwin, immediately going into full service mode once spoken to, outside of a breif moment of reaction time. Greetings.. I believe it was Jack, yes? No, Master Rictavio has not been in in a half-day atleast. Give or take. he says at the end, admitting his timing may be off. Our supplies are still low in that regard, but we still have some of my families special. The first will be on the house. The rest you'll have to pay for. One moment. he says normally, as he turns to be about his task of cleaning a mug proper before slowly filling it with the alcoholic beverage.
Arugal, with the now silent Bluto in tow -it seemed Bluto had finally learned that his beatings of late had come from his own comments. Urwin gives Bluto the faintest of pitiful glances but lasting only a moment as the fool had brought all this upon himself, and Urwin didn't particularly like him. Though Nivi would likely catch a glimpse of a knowing pity, rather than an empathetic one. The kind one might give a villain in a legend who had murdered hundreds, all for the sake of reviving his daughter - you could understand the reason but disagree with the journey.
That's Karl, one of the two Wachter youths. Luvash leaves them alone mostly cause they're the only ones in town aside from the Burgomaster who have any ..power. only to soon after find a few coins worth of gold. To which the man quickly complies with the 'order' - Bluto aside, he hadn't eaten in atleast a day, and perhaps Bluto's Blubbering about 'Oh i'm so hungry!' might cease... the thought of that bringing more silence to the drunkard made the Vistani man smile. Ordering some food, and a single ale.. to deny to Bluto but at-least they would both be fed. they sat in the center of the room once their order had been placed.
As Beren approaches the teen - Karl. With Moira not far behind, most likely - The boy looks up, a sneer covering his visage. An jes who in the feckin nine hells are you? The new busboy no... there's two of you... AH! I see... you're entertainers sent by Urwin to keep me company eh? You smell like shite though golden boy... And your dark skinned friend here looks like it... AH! I see the pun now! he says, laughing at his own 'wit.' atleast before Beren speaks, where a hint of hesitation creeps into his laughter, as if suddenly unsure.
Only for the guard, Svenka to enter the room, catching the boys attention, at first his face brightens as if he was the typical ***** noble's crotchfruit, spotting the town guard to 'deal' with the riff raff. And despite his sudden bravado, only for it to fall more into uncertainty between the aggressive golden boy, and the accusatory Svenka.
Er.. excuse me? Bones? shaking his head he clears his throat. I'll pay you a tendays worth to remove this glowing man from my presence. He is threatening me. If you'd like to see where i hide my 'bone' after that if you still wish~ he says, his voice slurring at the end during his pisspoor attempt to hit on the woman.
Nivi/Svenka favors the drunken Wachter brat with a sardonic look and a raised eyebrow.
"Such a charmer. It's a date, Karl. Don't know that you're enough man for me, though. Seen your brother around?"
Nivi allows just enough time for Karl to react and provide his initial answer before Shiv flies down from the rafter he was perched on, flapping his wings in Karl's face before flying back up, taking the help action and using owls' Flyby to avoid an opportunity attack.
The elven rogue (disguised as Svenka) takes advantage of her familiar's distraction by whipping the pommel of her concealed dagger around to crack against Karl's temple, aiming to knock the degenerate out cold. Then the other dagger if the first is not enough to do the job. (Attacking non-lethally).
Nividagger with Booming Blade to hit (with advantage from help): 15 - non-lethal, using pommel of blade. Nividagger damage plus Sneak Attack: 6 + 9 = 15 non-lethal bludgeoning (Only if Karl is conscious and moves voluntarily before his "turn": 8 more thunder damage from Booming Blade as deep blue energy encases him).
(Hope that attack did the trick, because the to-hit roll on the bonus action off-hand dagger for Nivi was a 10 to hit for 1 non-lethal damage).
IF that does not render Karlunconscious, Nivi/Svenka prepares to fight.
If on the other hand, it does knock him out, Nivi guides the drunkard's head to bonk lightly against a table on it's way down, then continues in a conversational, almost bored, tone to address everyone else in the Blue Water Inn as if she had not just sucker-punched Karl, shaking her head and giving Urwin and his wife a respectful, apologetic nod and rueful shrug.
"Tale as old as time. Can't hold his liquor, this one. Going down to take a dirt nap but thumped his head on a table along the way. We all saw it, right? Looks like it falls to us to return the lad home and get him out of your hair, Urwin. Wachter residence, yeah? Someone care to help me lug him?"
(Nivi/Svenka glances at Beren as she makes this final query).
Nivi also goes to check Karl's vital signs and stabilize him if needed, but botches it, looking then to Olamoira for help with her eyes. (Medicine: 7)
"Of course, of course, and your generosity is most appreciated as always, Urwin. T'is only a shame that me and mines cannot properly reciprocate it just yet. But rest assured, should we resolve some rather unexpected and quite pressing matters in town soon enough, I feel any further excuses on our part would be done little more than out of maliciousness." Jack said, though moreso jested towards the end. "But such matters aside for a moment, if by some glorious miracle we find ourselves whisked away 'fore 'Master Rictavio's' return, do let him know that we're looking for him, and need to speak with him at his earliest convenience." The Eladrin requests before sweeping the proffered drink up and take a nice, good sip.
Well, start to, in any event. But if Nivi's play went awry in some way, the only half-attentive Eladrin may find other business changing his mind from casually nursing his drink until called on. Not so much with an act of violence, but mores so by way of aiming to knock out the youth with a gesture, a "Shh~", and subtle weaving of magic to see him dreaming before he can run.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Beren stares flatly at the drunk Wachter boy, the light flickering as if to emphasize just how much he hates this kid at the moment. He was about ready to slam Karl's face into the table, but Nivi and Shiv were quicker to take action.
However, in the case that Nivi's strike wasn't enough to render the bastard unconscious, Beren doesn't hesitate to grab the kid by the back of the head and introduce him to the table.
Unarmed strike: Attack: 17 Damage: 3
Once the drunk is soundly knocked out, Beren turns to the rest of the tavern, staying silent as Nivi states her plan. He intends for everyone here to go along with what they were doing, and is currently more than willing to use intimidation tactics to get what he wants. The light behind the mask glows brightly as he stares down each individual within the Inn before he nods to Nivi, moving to drag Karl's sorry hide out of the chair.
This wasn't exactly the method he'd been thinking of, but if it works then he won't complain. He's content following Nivi's lead for now.
He won't bother attempting to stabilize the drunk, instead deciding that he'll just heal the wounds once they reach the manor--just enough so that if anyone inspects the lad they won't be able to determine it was the pommel of a dagger that actually knocked him out.
Olamoira follows Beren into the inn, the brash voice of the youth carrying to her alert ears and drawing her once again into a memory. We had prisoners who thought they were all that, bold, muscled, they came before us and we were implacable, insults, bravado, it all dissolved into terror, begging, pleading, screaming... they could never prevail... we made them know the wrath of Lloth, we made them know the insignificance of their achievements, what they thought of themselves, everything they held dear in their own mind, we tore it to pieces, dismembered it, let them watch it die a slow and painful death.
Svenka addresses the boy, and even the boy's returning insults sound empty to Ola, empty as one who will soon be begging, pleading, laying himself bare in the scant hope of a shred of mercy that will never, ever come... not from the drow... Ola clenches one fist and grits her teeth, fighting back the tears that try to spring to her eyes. What monsters we were... deserving of the darkness that our skin shows externally to the world...
She is snapped from her reverie when Svenka knocks the Wachter boy cold (and possibly Beren joins in). For a moment she looks shocked, staring down at the boy's unmoving form, her shock as if it were to see him intact, not riddled with the wounds of torture, a thousand images of what he would have looked like at her own hands passing through her mind, and nausea churns in her stomach. But she is able to push it away. Not even realizing, although she might if she thought about it, that Svenka is actually Nivi, she still catches the look in her eye, and moves over to check the lad and stabilize him if she can. Her skin crawls as her fingers make contact with him.
Karl's expression twists, too ignorant of the meaning to be offended.. as though he's never heard such a response, or at the very least is un-used to getting one like it - and looking as dumb as he acted. Soon after, a flurry of feathers falls from the roof, and Urwin doesn't seem pleased about the developments - yet they're happening faster than he would possibly have time to react.. Blinded by the predatory night owl, only for it to vanish, it's visage replaced with the pommel of a dagger hitting against his skull. Even drunk though, he almost managed to put if a defense... Nivi could tell she had just barely managed her hit, though it was forceful enough to knock him out cold there, his constitution not matching his reflexes. (barely hit his AC, but did more than enough to 0HP normally)
The soulless wretches at the table barely seem to acknowledge Nivi's words, as if her actions are irrelevant to them. They seem... tired in every meaning of the word, accepting and apathetic. Urwins gaze meets Nivi's when she looks to him, obviously trying to 'teehee' in her reaction, and her rueful shrug is met with a close-eyed smile that projects 'you have no idea how much trouble you may have just caused me...' as he continues wiping a plate that had been clean for atleast a minute at this point. Though obviously, to Urwin, all he saw was the guard... and he clearly thought she would know better.
Yes. The Wachter residence. Urwin says flatly, playing along, dejected in tone but playing along.
Urwins attention turned then to Jack. Oh, master Jack, I know you likely have pressing business.. and I apologize for the guard. I have no idea what she is up to.. or Luvash I suppose... he says as he takes in the scene at the table once more. I am only glad it is the soulless folk and not.. others. Please do try not to tell Lady Wachter about what you just saw... it will cause me no end of potentially fatal trouble if word.... But yes yes, if I see Master Rictavio I shall pass along your message. But please try to hurry on that request.. every cycle of the ..'sun' that goes by my caskets dwindle ever more... and eventually... they will run dry.
Luckily for Beren, Nivi's strike was enough and he didn't have to further intervene. As he scanned the area aside from Urwin and his own party, only those few soulless were there, and in them he saw the eyes of people who did not care, for themselves, or anything else most likely. Their bodies still had their needs but Beren wouldn't be surprised if they were numb in all regards.. beyond even depression yet still alive.
The boy unconscious as Moira looks him over during the time that Nivi is effectively placating Urwin at most, as the other patrons don't react... she makes sure his heart is still beating, and his breathing normal 'enough' and after a few moments and various checks, determines that he is more or less fine beyond the bruising he would likely have within a few hours.
Things resolved, in one way shape or form at the Inn.. Give me a simple example of what you guys do next and I can flesh it out. I should be able to post by friday.
Nivi/Svenka tilts her head at Urwin, then considers a moment, hoping that the Innkeeper and his family do not become targets.
"Oh right. Cracked his skull outside, this one. Right? Just brought him in here to clean him off. Check his pulse. Dark elf healer inside and all. You carrying him home with us on your shoulder, right Beren? Seems like something the Avatar of the Sun would do. We'll see ourselves out."
Before departing, for some reason Nivi orders two cups of whatever Karl had been drinking and overpays for it, leaving 5 gold pieces for Urwin and Danika. She does not imbibe any, however, carrying the drinks out of the Blue Water Inn with her.
Once outside (and out of earshot/eyeshot of any ravens on the roof), Nivi proposes her plan to her companions, open to reasonable suggestions. In fact, as it stands, her plan will not fully work unless the group take a short rest, somewhere secluded, so that Jack can regain both uses of Wild Shape, but she does not know that yet. Her premise is that the Bones were stolen through misdirection and we are merely reclaiming them through misdirection. So...
She relates the specifics (as stated OOC): not just returning Karl to the Wachter home, but leaving him hidden an alley near the home, good and knocked out. Meanwhile, Nivi casts Disguise Self once more to look like a passed-out-drunk Karl and pours the drinks all over her face and a bit on her clothes to add some verisimilitude. So that she, and not Karl, is the body that is returned to the Wachter home in an effort to infiltrate it.
The plan also involves Jack in mastiff (Morty) form to sniff out the bones inside the house. So Jack would have to first Wild Shape into something small like a spider to be carried in with Nivi (disguised as passed-out-drunk Karl), perhaps hiding in her hair or clothes. Then, once in, Wild Shape again to turn into Morty to sniff out the bones. This is the point in the conversation at which Jack would presumably let her know that an hour's rest is required for that.
As for what Beren and Olamoira do, Nivi suggests not bringing up the Bones since that might arouse suspicion. Instead, as well-meaning newcomers, make a (genuine) plea for Lady Wachter to impart some sense to her son before he endangers himself (as he clearly has) through his drunken escapades.
(Nivi is open to suggestions to improve or change the plan!)
"And you can only stretch things out by watering down a few services -- yes, yes, I... I understand." Jack assured Urwin in both words and clapping a gentle hand on the man's shoulder. "We'll see about keeping our other business in town as short and sweet as possible." Following the flashing of a quick smile and a couple more pats on the shoulder, the eladrin stepped away to follow Beren and "Svenka" at a fair distance of twenty or so feet.
Or so had been his plan at first, but Nivi saw to its swift and incidental ruination in prompting a meeting outside. Not that he overly minded as much! And nevertheless, he listened with rapt attention and with no small amounts of amusement creeping onto his face in a grin or mock surprise over certain aspects of Nivi's bold plan. "Mm~ Might've been easier to find such rest had that poor fellow there-" He gestures to the unconscious Karl. "-had not been so quickly and summarily been made to pay the sleep tax, but far too late to cry over spilled toys and what not I suppose. As for, eh, returning to my other state, a rat would suffice enough. That is, so long as she has no feline on the premises."
He closes his eyes for a moment and shudders as if relieving some unpleasant memory. "Alternatively, a weasel could.... actually, the safer bet might just be to go as a cat. I'd be more noticable that way, of course, but.... Hmm.... Now I'm complicating things with overcaution." He chuckles softly. "Bah. Direct me as you see fit in this little endeavor, my friends. Though Beren-" He gives the helmed man an eerily hard look. "If a moment presents itself, it may behoove you to see what ties she might have to a certain card reading we had before coming here. As I believe there was the one that was most curiously related. Though, it could be given the line about the treasure being near bones that I might very well stumble upon it anyhow.... still, best ot hedge our bets a little?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
"He'll be all right," Olamoira mumbles, after checking over the unconscious boy. She looks up in surprise at Svenka's request that Beren carry him back home, but acceptance comes quickly over her face as they had, of course, planned to go to the Wachter residence anyway. Ola follows Beren and Svenka outside, only for it to slowly dawn on her that Svenka is really Nivi, in disguise. As she realizes this, a storm of anger crosses her features. She listens to the entirety of Nivi's plan, though, before she speaks up.
"Nivi? You have taken the visage of a person in this town, and stand to put her and her family in terrible danger by your actions in her form. Have you forgotten, already, your ire at whomever took your form, presumably, to tell Bluto to drown that poor girl? Yet you would put the same helpless fate to another. Shame on you! And you will do it again, as this Wachter lad? There is no need for this deception. To bring him home is certainly commendable, and we may see from there how the bones may be acquired. For if it is not theft to take what has been already stolen, the means by which we position ourselves to do so may be morally compromising in themselves. With the art of deception, injustice, and right neglect of an injured man, hiding him in an alleyway... this cannot be. I myself will volunteer to sneak into the house rather than accompany this plan."
Beren nods to Nivi, ready to go along with the plan even if he would much rather be more direct about accusing Wachter. He does have to admit that Jack is right in regards to their actions. Perhaps if they'd waited things could have gone easier. However, there was also the possibility that they could have lost their opportunity, so as the eladrin said, what's done is done.
The light behind the mask flares up substantially at the mention of the card reading. That hadn't even occurred to him until now, and... he does see Jack's point. His fist closes on the hilt given to him by Luvash, and it takes him a moment to realize he'd grabbed it instead of his own sword. Could this hilt belong to the blade spoken of in the reading? He can't help but be irritated at how quickly these prophecies seem to be taking hold. Great, so he's already set himself on a predestined path.
"Yes," he says, his voice low as he agrees. If Wachter is the woman mentioned in the reading, then... well, he won't be sorry for whatever happens while they attempt to recover the bones. If she is a friend of the darkness, then she is their enemy. That's that.
Then Olamoira speaks up, clearly displeased with their actions. Beren hadn't really considered that Svenka could be wrapped up in this. Urwin yes, but he figured he could alleviate that problem by taking responsibility. Really, the same could be said for Svenka, if Karl even remembers the face of the person who knocked him out when he wakes up. "I will take responsibility for what happened and avert the blame from Svenka and Urwin," he says. "As for this bastard," he nudges Karl. "He's apparently been making trouble for the whole town for a while, without punishment. My largest concern is more him waking up before Nivi can get out. Deception is not my strength, but I see the benefit of it in this scenario."The light behind the mask flickers for a moment as he looks at Olamoira. Part of him would rather Nivi or Jack be the one to talk to Wachter, considering they both are much better with words than he is. But right now, they need to make sure that no one is left alone in this endeavor, and Nivi and Jack stand the best chance at getting in unnoticed. Sighing, he says, "I understand your hesitance to go along with this, Olamoira, but if what Jack and I suspect is true about the Wachter woman..." Perhaps he shouldn't assume before confirming their suspicions.
He shakes his head before turning to Nivi, "Is there any other way you could enter undetected if we still return Karl to his home. Perhaps you help take him to his chambers and then assume the face of a guard?" He personally couldn't care less if they leave the kid in an alley, but if they can't get Olamoira on board then he's not sure how well this is going to work out. "If that is an option, I could still attempt to distract Wachter with conversation. If not, I will still follow through with the original plan. Olamoira, if you do not wish to involve yourself in his then you could stay behind and make sure nothing happens to Karl. Once this is over, I will see to it that Urwin and Svenka do not face ramifications for our actions. I do not see us making friends with Wachter, so I do not care if she finds out everything that has happened here. All that matters is that we recover the bones and see to it that they stay where they belong. Depending on how things turn out, we may need to get Luvash on our side to ensure Wachter stays in check... if there is anything he can do against her at all." He has is doubts there, considering the Wachter boys have evaded punishment thanks to their mother's money. Regardless, he also doubts that they will be able to recover the bones without making an enemy out of the Wachter household. That's something he accepted as soon as they discovered what happened to the bones.
He would rather not leave Olamoira by herself either, but if she doesn't want to go along with Nivi's plan, he also doesn't want her to attempt to sneak in on her own. It's dangerous enough for Nivi and Jack to sneak around one they get inside, to attempt to break in from the outside as well just adds more danger. If they are going to do that he might as well just storm the gates and create as big of a distraction for them as he can... and perhaps wring the information out of Wachter if he can get an audience with her.
Nivi accepts Jack's point with a wry twist of her mouth. She had not known how often he could turn into a beast without rest. Apparently just once more.
At Olamoira's forceful remonstration, Nivi tilts her head, listening. It is not the first time she's been dressed down and it certainly would not be the last unless the night proves fatal. She rolls her slim shoulders as Shiv flies down to perch upon one.
"Two people so different, you and me, one person's judgement makes no sense to the other. So no judgment, but most of that makes no sense to me. 'It is not theft to take what has been already stolen'? Right. Got to remember that one. Glad that'll let you feel better and keep your moral high ground, Prophet. Sneaking in, I've done plenty. Could do again if that's the plan. Second story work, taking something from the Baroness' own home when she doesn't know, and doesn't want you inside. Seems as deceptive and immoral in my book, all hair-splitting and moral fig-leaves aside. But what do I know. Thinking my plan's better since it gets by the house's outer defenses, watchdogs, maybe worse things ol' darklord gave Wachter to keep interlopers out. Sneak in, we have to deal with all that. Get in as Karl, maybe with Shorty in tow, we might be clear, and we get further into the place. Then 'Karl' can 'wake up' and wander around his own house. Seems like the best shot at getting the Bones back, you ask me."
"And you have it turned around with the whole 'ire' bit, Prophet. Strahd's ruse with the disguise? No ire. Respect his chops. Just shows he wants me dead. Little miffed at the folks back in town who thought I'd leave such an obvious trail back to myself, but I'll get over it. The real problem? Oh let's see, let's see... that's right! Strahd got Bluto to straight up murder an innocent kid. Almost worked until we stopped it. THAT'S the real problem I got with Mr. darklord. Not getting my feelings too mussed about some disguise. And last I checked, none of our plans have us killing kiddos. False equivalence."
Nivi looks at everyone. "Tell you what, though. Agree with one thing. This disguise was no good. Was thinking with all Smiley's going on about how we had no idea, the real danger she knows all about, that she wouldn't complain much at a little more of it coming her way. But that's not right. So listen. You don't own this, Beren. I'll walk back in there and tell Urwin and Danika what's what right now. And Karl when he's awake? I'll tell him to his face who put him down. Me, not Smiley. Same with Lu-lu if he asks. Should have just done it as me all along. Saved some of my magic too."
"So I'll go with whatever plan we pick. Listen. Karl's fine. He'd probably be like this with another hour's worth of drinks anyway. Yeah Beren, I could try to sneak in while you all return him for real. Or maybe Shorty comes with me. Maybe Prophet too. It's all good. Until the watchdogs or zombies or whatever else Wachter has guarding her grounds sniff us out and it goes sideways. It's why I still like my plan better."
Olamoira listens as Nivi commendably explains her view on the plan. After the memories disturbingly triggered by the young high elf had faded or otherwise found their way back to their proper place in the dark recesses of Ola's mind, Ola since realized that she likes Nivi's candor and unabashed ambition for worthy goals. She has a good heart, better than mine,Ola concludes, she just doesn't understand the difference between right and wrong, and that is only because she's never learned it.
"Here is one thing to consider," Ola says, addressing all of them. "What knowledge and powers we have may be considerable, but they do not match the extent of any situation we will be in. We cannot know, or control, everything that is involved in our action or its consequences. We never can. There will always be factors we did not consider. Everything may change in a moment in a way we did not expect and could not predict. I am a drow. I understand control, and the lengths to which my people go to secure it. Horrific lengths. And yet a light broke through, when control began to cost more and more blood. When it cost those I held dear, by my own hand. I lost control of everything then. Who, then, is in control, if we are not? It is the Divine Order only that is in control, weaving a tapestry far beyond what our eyes can see. We may look at a situation and think that this, or that, approach may give us the best outcome, the best hope of achieving our goal. But we don't know if that's true, and we can't know. We can make our best judgment, but it is never guaranteed. That is why, in any situation, we must start from principle, not from our own limited judgment of what will grant us success. That is the basis by which we must act, or we move out of alignment with Divine Order, trying to set ourselves up as gods who know more than our ken, yet we can divine no motive of the gods ourselves. Choose your principles, then, and stick to them, and the Divine Light will protect you. Not as you would have it, but for the ultimate good and right. Be a part of that order, and not of one you make yourself. That is what I have learned, and so that I will adhere to, or there is no salvation for me."
She tilts her head to one side, pondering. "The bones must be reclaimed. To call it stealing could be confusing--if you, say, Nivi, grab Beren's sword and walk off with it, is it stealing if he comes after you and takes it back? You had no claim to it, and he does, so if he takes it back from you, you could not in justice call him a thief. One may take what one has no right to, but that does not grant the right. If it did, the concept of stealing would not exist. We act on behalf of Saint Andral, against one who has taken that which she has no claim to. And, this is another reason why we must adhere to the same principles that the saint would; because we are acting on his behalf. Our success may be dependent in ways that we do not know on his assistance, and on the assistance of the Divine who succors him. I have said this already, and saw it dismissed, but the mission or purpose for which we work here--it is not mundane, not purely natural. This is a spiritual battle. And so our own adherence to Divine Law must be impeccable or we may fail. The ends do not justify the means, and this is a cornerstone of Divine Law."
"So, if you like, Nivi, I will sneak in with you, and Jack, while Beren returns the lad..."
When Nivi states that she will take responsibility for her own actions, Beren just inclines his head in agreement. He'd expected as much, having just wanted to assure Olamoira that they would ensure no one outside their own group suffered for their actions. Still, he doesn't like the idea of the three of them trying to sneak in. Nivi's original plan still sounds like the best option, even if Olamoira doesn't like it. It cuts the risk in half, and... while he usually isn't one to worry about risks, in this instance he isn't working alone. Just because he's willing to throw himself into the crossfire doesn't mean he's willing to let the others do so as well. Then again, Olamoira seems perfectly willing to take whatever risks are necessary. He's not too keen on trusting this Divine Light, regardless of how benevolent or wise it is supposed to be. Right now, he doesn't see any issue with letting this kid take some punishment for his actions. If what they've heard about him is true, leaving him in the alley likely won't pose much of a threat to him. Most of the people here are soulless, so they shouldn't mess with him, and the rest of them seem afraid of Wachter. Their largest concern would be some other Good Samaritan finding him and returning him home... leading to two Karl's being dragged to Wachter's doorstep.
He sighs, releasing a puff of light as he shakes his head and crosses his arms. This is becoming way to complicated.
"I have to agree with Nivi," he says finally. "Her plan is much safer than all three of you attempting to sneak in." He tilts his mask towards Olamoira, "I understand your conviction, even if I do not necessarily agree with it, but in my opinion..." he hesitates, as if unused to giving his own opinion on plans proposed by another. "I don't see a problem with leaving Karl here. I doubt anyone will do him harm considering his families reputation, and if all goes according to plan, this venture shouldn't last long. If we wanted to, we could bring him closer to the manor before leaving him, and perhaps Nivi could wander back outside in disguise. Then we could bring the real Karl back again, this time leaving him with the guards..." He shakes his head, letting out another sigh before saying, "I have never attempted anything like this before. So, I will follow whatever plan the rest of you think is feasible."
The more they delay, the less he wants to bother with deception and stealth. He's starting to think waiting until Karl wakes up so they could interrogate the kid would be their best option, but he won't say that out loud. He also has a feeling that Olamoira may be even less on board with that idea than she is with Nivi's.
Nivi listens respectfully to Olamoira, hearing her out.
"You mean what you say, Prophet. Respect that. Don't mean I agree, though. Yeah, I have no control. Doesn't mean Divine Order's in control. That's your leap of faith. Who knows if you're right. I do what I think is right, most times. Not always, like with the Svenka thing here. But stealing something back, - no way is that moral in my book. Whole concept only works if everyone agrees who stole from who. Gets messy. Maybe the guy who took Beren's sword thinks it was theirs to start with. Starts wars, things like that, one side forever taking back what they think is theirs. Endless cycle."
"This case? Best I can tell, stealing the Bones back is the right job. Wachter's probably Strahd's ally and tricked the kiddos into lifting the Bones, which likely ain't hers or for any good cause, to take away the church's protection. Father Lucian's a good man. So yeah, I'm in for getting the Bones back. Just don't see it as moral, or saintly like you do. Way I see it, it's no more moral to sneak our way in your way, than to trick our way in like I say. Far as I'm concerned, 'reclaiming' the Bones by breaking and entering is every bit as much 'ends justifying means' as my disguising myself as ol' Karl."
Nivi shrugs. "Anyway, you all know my vote. Trick, not break in. Be right back." And with that, she turns and trots back into the Blue Water Inn.
Summoning Urwin (and Danika if she is near) close for a private conversation, she tells them who she really is, and to clear things up in case Svenka gets blamed. Tells them the party suspect Lady Wachter of a grave crime (Nivi winces at her unintentional pun, one for which her oh-so-perfect bard of a little sister would have mocked her mercilessly, she imagines) but leaves it at that, not going into specifics.
She looks them in the eye as she hands them ten gold pieces before leaving to rejoin her companions. "Know it doesn't come close to making up for what went down here. Best I can do for now. We'll try to make this right. And hopefully find out what's what at the winery for you once we're done here."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Urwin couldn't quite tell if the Eladrin was being sincere, or if he was patronizing him but he elected to choose the former in his assumption, breathing only a half-sigh of relief that the party had not forgotten his request from the prior day. Regarding Nivi breifly and saying It certainly seems that way. His tone was strained still b ut not as much as it might have ben prior to both peoples assurances. Though he was still cleaning a new dish extra hard even as the gold sat on the counter, him eying them breifly intent to pocket it once the group was out of the inn. Ultimately Urwin didn't seem so much mad, as he was a mix of feelings. Obviously he seemed glad the codger had gotten some comeuppance, yet also worried about what it might mean for him if it was discovered that it had happened within his establishment.
( Consciousness roll: 3 )
Though it seems Karl will likely be out for several hours, by Moira's estimation, atleast 3 (as per original dice roll above, in case it 'manip rolls')
Eventually Nivi makes her way back in, the original 5 gold pieces gone, and Urwin suffering from adrenaline crash, sighing heavily as if he'd just finished a long run without moving. Despite this, he puts on his best smile as Svenka returns only to inform him of what was really going down. It didn't seem to abate his current plateu of concern but he seemed to understand more of the situation, however as the gold is offered, he takes only half of it. You and yours have already given me five... And if this is your folks doing, I have a feeling you're more likely to succeed than not... I only ask you leave our establishments name from your tongues, unless it is somehow already known to them... Which I doubt but... who knows.. he says defeatedly.
((Seems everyone's still sort of planning... so I'll need a concrete decision on the 'approach' or approache's' basically I need to know who is doing what so I can play out the beginning and you can all go from there. It's still somewhat up in the air at the moment))
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Previously back at the bar:
Though his wording and attitude might've come off somewhat flippant in the moment, Jack had been sincere to Urwin. On the other hand, whether or not the group would manage to avoid becoming embroiled in so much more within the city was.... beyond any word of certainty. At least not one the Druid had been willing to provide...
Closer to the Present:
As much as Jack appeared to idly be enjoying listening to the exchange between others (at least for the most part), even to the point that some greenery began creeping its way into his hair and skin, even he was not immune to experiencing some measure of reflection in the heat of a moment. So it was that his attention began to waver as assuredly as his gaze upon the others, as the debate over the plan left him looking a mixture between a pinch of guiltiness, but also a touch something indescribable.
Hearing the name 'Strahd' though not only immediately draws Jack's attention back to the present, but with a shudder of discomfort at that. If anyone took notice however he's quick to play it off as always. But in the absence of any more dedicated attempts to dissuade questioning, he'd simply give Nivi nod before she jets back to the Inn. As she does, Jack motioned for the rest of the party to continue down the street with complete confidence in Nivi catching up swiftly; especially given the deadweight slung over Beren's shoulders.
In the meantime, he'd try to make himself at least a little useful in examining 'Kaaaarl~' and try his best to gauge how much time the group might have until his inevitable awakening.
Once Nivi's return and presumably without even MORE things to consider, Jack says, "For the record, I'm all for the whole, uhhh, two pronged assault as it were. But if that means my innocent and dear Beren here on his lonesome, well... I'm not sure I can have that now~" He pauses just long enough to let the words sink in before sighing softly in exasperation. "That all said, let's first find an alleyway at least 'near' the estate -- one hopefully with plentiful enough debris to shield ourselves and darling Karl as well. That way we can continue to hash things out while I recover a bit more of strength, and in this way your humble servant here may yet have more options and means to serve." He half-jokingly gives a bow to the others. "But frankly speaking, if this whole matter is so very, very, ehhh,... divisive, then we might as well stick to the brute option of getting Luvash involved immediately. Odds are that'll complicate things just as assuredly as anything else we do! BUT it would perhaps be the safest route for us. Just couldn't say the same for the guards depending on just how 'tight' the good Lady is with the dark landlord and any vassals he might have seeded throughout the realm... Speaking of which, we should look into that at some point, Beren." At that, he continues onward down the road with the presumption of others at least following along, walking and talking until the group found their alleyway to finalize things.
Beren huffs, growing impatient. "I'll be fine. If we follow Nivi's original plan, Olamoira will accompany me. If not, I suspect the three of you will be in more danger than I."That was something he did not like. Still, at this point he just wants to get this over with. Using Luvash doesn't seem like the best option, but then again what does he know? "I do not like the idea of using Luvash, as I am unsure of how effective it would be. Wachter seems to have enough power already to keep him in check. If we want someone to storm the keep, I might as well do it myself." He pauses, crossing his arms and shaking his head before staring at Karl for a good moment. Regardless as to whether or not him 'storming the keep' himself would even be possible, he doesn't seem to think it any less feasible than getting Luvash and whatever men the burgomaster commands to do it for them.
After a moment he says, "If we change plans, perhaps it would be better for Jack to find that bard and see about infiltrating that way. Perhaps you could weasel more information out of her than I would be able to."He shakes his head, more at himself than anything else before adding, "I will agree with you, Jack. We should determine if Wachter has any relations with Strahd. However, I do not know how effective I will be at gathering that information if I speak to her alone."Cleaver conversation is not something he has as a strength. If intimidation is an option in this, then he could use that to his advantage, but that could quickly go wrong and stir up trouble before they even have a chance to learn anything. Either way, if he is the one to speak to the Lady, then he doubts that he'll be able to get any of the wanted information from her without making her their enemy in the process. If that's not a problem, fine, he'll do what's needed. But if they have any desires to not make an enemy with this first visit, then it is something to consider. "Whatever we choose, we should make haste about it. If we want to use Karl's current state to our advantage, whether it be bringing him to Wachter, or leaving him here, then our time is running short."
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Beren is admittedly tempted to leave prior to Lucien's prayer, but seeing how his companions are willing to stay he decides he should as well. He stiffens slightly at the sensation that washes over him, recognizing it and... not really sure how to feel about it. Whatever inclination he'd had to be appreciative disappears immediately however, when Saelethin speaks up.
His only response to her words is a short growl and a brief flare up of the light behind the mask. Then he turns a little too quickly to leave the church, not even noticing Jack's curious glance. He seems extremely tense, doing his best to hold back pent up anger that's only been building since they returned to find Saelethin still present at the church. Now that they know Saelethin will simply be staying there, Beren has little intention of actually returning to the place. Part of him wants to tell Lucien to be careful around the woman, but he doesn't know what words would be best to explain that, and he definitely doesn't want to try anything else with her in the room. Not while she could twist his words around and make him look the fool once more. He still feels a flicker of embarrassment about what happened earlier.
As they follow Jack to the inn, he stays silent. Some of his tenseness washes away the further from the church they get, but he remains sullen-- and the light behind the mask holds a steady glow as if he's staring off at nothing as they walk. This of course changes when they enter the inn, only for a mug to nearly crash into Jack's face. Beren's mask turns towards the unruly youth, the light flaring angrily at the scene he'd just seen unfold. Judging by Urwin and his wife's begrudging restraint in response to the boy's behavior, this boy must be either someone important, or he's related to someone who is. ...unless Beren is reading into this too much. Regardless, after everything that's happened today, he's more than willing to rough up this bastard even if he isn't one of the Wachter kids.
He nods to Jack when the Eladrin wishes them luck, then turns his attention back to the drunken boy. He stands there for a moment clearly thinking about simply jumping into action but instead he turns to Argual and says quietly, "Do you know this drunk?"
After receiving a response, he'll nod and then hand Argual enough money to buy a meal for him and Bluto, "Get yourself some and Bluto some food. I don't care if you want some drink too, just keep Bluto under control for now." He feels a little bad for making Argual babysit the drunk fisherman, but right now he doesn't have the time nor the patience to do it himself. If Argual wants to tie Bluto up and toss him into a room for the night, he doesn't care, so long as the man stays out of the way and out of trouble.
Once those two have moved on (assuming no one else has taken action yet) he'll wordlessly pick up the mug that had previously sailed past Jack's head from where it had fallen to the floor. Then he walks over to the table where the drunk is and sets it in front of him, "I believe this is yours." His voice is low, and laced with barely bridled irritation.
As all the commotion is taking place in the common room of the Blue Water Inn, Nivi remains at the back of the group, her face expressionless.
As Shiv wings inside to perch on a rafter, Nivi murmurs and gestures. Well hidden from the interior of the Inn, her figure and appearance transform to become that of Smiley (Svenka), the guard who had put manacles on Nivi when the group returned from the lake with Arabelle. (Casting Disguise Self).
Despite her altered look, the three other PCs who have spent time around Nivi and heard her speak can tell who it really is from her words and tone as she conceals her daggers in her palm and strides confidently into the common room as Smiley/Svenka might, in her apparent guard uniform.
Nivi's Sleight of Hand to palm and conceal her daggers: 24
"Potatoes, Wachter? Thought your dear old mum said her dog liked bones. That's you, yeah? Her pup? Bet you don't know where she kept those bones she got in the house, do you? Like she'd let the yapping drunk of her litter in on anything like that? Or prove me wrong - tell me where the bones are."
(Svenka/Nivi approaches the Wachter lad with both daggers concealed behind her palms, and Shiv perched unobtrusively overhead. She does not think the group will get much out of the drunk, just talking, but she is giving him one chance before attacking non-lethally with the pommels of her daggers).
Mud(Paladin2):Frandal's Scourge/Inge(Barbarian1):Krayveneer's After the Fall/Seri(Cleric1/Sorcerer1):Uhtred's Windward Isles/Shin(Wizard2):Dimir_MTG's Surviving
Dyson/Eleo(Cleric3):Vos' Beyond the Veil/Soren(Druid4):Bartjeebus' Ravenloft/Nivi(Rogue3):Raiketsu's CoS/Lyra(Warlock2/Bard2):BlameItOnWinter's Will of the Ancients
Joren(Fighter5):NotDrizzt's Simple Request/Quyen(Adept1):Constance's Nentir Vale/Rel(Warlock2):Uhtred's Phandelver/Xarian(Fighter1/Wizard1):ShieldHero's Drakkenheim
(Will post tomorrow night.)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Entering the inn, and narrowly avoiding a light bludgeoning from a tankard, Jack makes his way to the vaguely perturbed Urwin. Urwin, immediately going into full service mode once spoken to, outside of a breif moment of reaction time. Greetings.. I believe it was Jack, yes? No, Master Rictavio has not been in in a half-day atleast. Give or take. he says at the end, admitting his timing may be off. Our supplies are still low in that regard, but we still have some of my families special. The first will be on the house. The rest you'll have to pay for. One moment. he says normally, as he turns to be about his task of cleaning a mug proper before slowly filling it with the alcoholic beverage.
Arugal, with the now silent Bluto in tow -it seemed Bluto had finally learned that his beatings of late had come from his own comments. Urwin gives Bluto the faintest of pitiful glances but lasting only a moment as the fool had brought all this upon himself, and Urwin didn't particularly like him. Though Nivi would likely catch a glimpse of a knowing pity, rather than an empathetic one. The kind one might give a villain in a legend who had murdered hundreds, all for the sake of reviving his daughter - you could understand the reason but disagree with the journey.
That's Karl, one of the two Wachter youths. Luvash leaves them alone mostly cause they're the only ones in town aside from the Burgomaster who have any ..power. only to soon after find a few coins worth of gold. To which the man quickly complies with the 'order' - Bluto aside, he hadn't eaten in atleast a day, and perhaps Bluto's Blubbering about 'Oh i'm so hungry!' might cease... the thought of that bringing more silence to the drunkard made the Vistani man smile. Ordering some food, and a single ale.. to deny to Bluto but at-least they would both be fed. they sat in the center of the room once their order had been placed.
As Beren approaches the teen - Karl. With Moira not far behind, most likely - The boy looks up, a sneer covering his visage. An jes who in the feckin nine hells are you? The new busboy no... there's two of you... AH! I see... you're entertainers sent by Urwin to keep me company eh? You smell like shite though golden boy... And your dark skinned friend here looks like it... AH! I see the pun now! he says, laughing at his own 'wit.' atleast before Beren speaks, where a hint of hesitation creeps into his laughter, as if suddenly unsure.
Only for the guard, Svenka to enter the room, catching the boys attention, at first his face brightens as if he was the typical ***** noble's crotchfruit, spotting the town guard to 'deal' with the riff raff. And despite his sudden bravado, only for it to fall more into uncertainty between the aggressive golden boy, and the accusatory Svenka.
Er.. excuse me? Bones? shaking his head he clears his throat. I'll pay you a tendays worth to remove this glowing man from my presence. He is threatening me. If you'd like to see where i hide my 'bone' after that if you still wish~ he says, his voice slurring at the end during his pisspoor attempt to hit on the woman.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Nivi/Svenka favors the drunken Wachter brat with a sardonic look and a raised eyebrow.
"Such a charmer. It's a date, Karl. Don't know that you're enough man for me, though. Seen your brother around?"
Nivi allows just enough time for Karl to react and provide his initial answer before Shiv flies down from the rafter he was perched on, flapping his wings in Karl's face before flying back up, taking the help action and using owls' Flyby to avoid an opportunity attack.
The elven rogue (disguised as Svenka) takes advantage of her familiar's distraction by whipping the pommel of her concealed dagger around to crack against Karl's temple, aiming to knock the degenerate out cold. Then the other dagger if the first is not enough to do the job. (Attacking non-lethally).
Nivi dagger with Booming Blade to hit (with advantage from help): 15 - non-lethal, using pommel of blade.
Nivi dagger damage plus Sneak Attack: 6 + 9 = 15 non-lethal bludgeoning
(Only if Karl is conscious and moves voluntarily before his "turn": 8 more thunder damage from Booming Blade as deep blue energy encases him).
(Hope that attack did the trick, because the to-hit roll on the bonus action off-hand dagger for Nivi was a 10 to hit for 1 non-lethal damage).
IF that does not render Karl unconscious, Nivi/Svenka prepares to fight.
If on the other hand, it does knock him out, Nivi guides the drunkard's head to bonk lightly against a table on it's way down, then continues in a conversational, almost bored, tone to address everyone else in the Blue Water Inn as if she had not just sucker-punched Karl, shaking her head and giving Urwin and his wife a respectful, apologetic nod and rueful shrug.
"Tale as old as time. Can't hold his liquor, this one. Going down to take a dirt nap but thumped his head on a table along the way. We all saw it, right? Looks like it falls to us to return the lad home and get him out of your hair, Urwin. Wachter residence, yeah? Someone care to help me lug him?"
(Nivi/Svenka glances at Beren as she makes this final query).
Nivi also goes to check Karl's vital signs and stabilize him if needed, but botches it, looking then to Olamoira for help with her eyes. (Medicine: 7)
Mud(Paladin2):Frandal's Scourge/Inge(Barbarian1):Krayveneer's After the Fall/Seri(Cleric1/Sorcerer1):Uhtred's Windward Isles/Shin(Wizard2):Dimir_MTG's Surviving
Dyson/Eleo(Cleric3):Vos' Beyond the Veil/Soren(Druid4):Bartjeebus' Ravenloft/Nivi(Rogue3):Raiketsu's CoS/Lyra(Warlock2/Bard2):BlameItOnWinter's Will of the Ancients
Joren(Fighter5):NotDrizzt's Simple Request/Quyen(Adept1):Constance's Nentir Vale/Rel(Warlock2):Uhtred's Phandelver/Xarian(Fighter1/Wizard1):ShieldHero's Drakkenheim
"Of course, of course, and your generosity is most appreciated as always, Urwin. T'is only a shame that me and mines cannot properly reciprocate it just yet. But rest assured, should we resolve some rather unexpected and quite pressing matters in town soon enough, I feel any further excuses on our part would be done little more than out of maliciousness." Jack said, though moreso jested towards the end. "But such matters aside for a moment, if by some glorious miracle we find ourselves whisked away 'fore 'Master Rictavio's' return, do let him know that we're looking for him, and need to speak with him at his earliest convenience." The Eladrin requests before sweeping the proffered drink up and take a nice, good sip.
Well, start to, in any event. But if Nivi's play went awry in some way, the only half-attentive Eladrin may find other business changing his mind from casually nursing his drink until called on. Not so much with an act of violence, but mores so by way of aiming to knock out the youth with a gesture, a "Shh~", and subtle weaving of magic to see him dreaming before he can run.
But ONLY, again, if things came to a head...
Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Nobody - [Feral-Tiefling]Wizard/Sorcerer - War/Draconic (HoTDQ)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Dreams/Archfey
-
Hiatus:
Xanrazan - [Earth Genasi]Bard - College of Swords(Shadowthorn's Princess of the Apocalypse)
Beren stares flatly at the drunk Wachter boy, the light flickering as if to emphasize just how much he hates this kid at the moment. He was about ready to slam Karl's face into the table, but Nivi and Shiv were quicker to take action.
However, in the case that Nivi's strike wasn't enough to render the bastard unconscious, Beren doesn't hesitate to grab the kid by the back of the head and introduce him to the table.
Unarmed strike: Attack: 17 Damage: 3
Once the drunk is soundly knocked out, Beren turns to the rest of the tavern, staying silent as Nivi states her plan. He intends for everyone here to go along with what they were doing, and is currently more than willing to use intimidation tactics to get what he wants. The light behind the mask glows brightly as he stares down each individual within the Inn before he nods to Nivi, moving to drag Karl's sorry hide out of the chair.
This wasn't exactly the method he'd been thinking of, but if it works then he won't complain. He's content following Nivi's lead for now.
He won't bother attempting to stabilize the drunk, instead deciding that he'll just heal the wounds once they reach the manor--just enough so that if anyone inspects the lad they won't be able to determine it was the pommel of a dagger that actually knocked him out.
Olamoira follows Beren into the inn, the brash voice of the youth carrying to her alert ears and drawing her once again into a memory. We had prisoners who thought they were all that, bold, muscled, they came before us and we were implacable, insults, bravado, it all dissolved into terror, begging, pleading, screaming... they could never prevail... we made them know the wrath of Lloth, we made them know the insignificance of their achievements, what they thought of themselves, everything they held dear in their own mind, we tore it to pieces, dismembered it, let them watch it die a slow and painful death.
Svenka addresses the boy, and even the boy's returning insults sound empty to Ola, empty as one who will soon be begging, pleading, laying himself bare in the scant hope of a shred of mercy that will never, ever come... not from the drow... Ola clenches one fist and grits her teeth, fighting back the tears that try to spring to her eyes. What monsters we were... deserving of the darkness that our skin shows externally to the world...
She is snapped from her reverie when Svenka knocks the Wachter boy cold (and possibly Beren joins in). For a moment she looks shocked, staring down at the boy's unmoving form, her shock as if it were to see him intact, not riddled with the wounds of torture, a thousand images of what he would have looked like at her own hands passing through her mind, and nausea churns in her stomach. But she is able to push it away. Not even realizing, although she might if she thought about it, that Svenka is actually Nivi, she still catches the look in her eye, and moves over to check the lad and stabilize him if she can. Her skin crawls as her fingers make contact with him.
Medicine: 13
Karl's expression twists, too ignorant of the meaning to be offended.. as though he's never heard such a response, or at the very least is un-used to getting one like it - and looking as dumb as he acted. Soon after, a flurry of feathers falls from the roof, and Urwin doesn't seem pleased about the developments - yet they're happening faster than he would possibly have time to react.. Blinded by the predatory night owl, only for it to vanish, it's visage replaced with the pommel of a dagger hitting against his skull. Even drunk though, he almost managed to put if a defense... Nivi could tell she had just barely managed her hit, though it was forceful enough to knock him out cold there, his constitution not matching his reflexes. (barely hit his AC, but did more than enough to 0HP normally)
The soulless wretches at the table barely seem to acknowledge Nivi's words, as if her actions are irrelevant to them. They seem... tired in every meaning of the word, accepting and apathetic. Urwins gaze meets Nivi's when she looks to him, obviously trying to 'teehee' in her reaction, and her rueful shrug is met with a close-eyed smile that projects 'you have no idea how much trouble you may have just caused me...' as he continues wiping a plate that had been clean for atleast a minute at this point. Though obviously, to Urwin, all he saw was the guard... and he clearly thought she would know better.
Yes. The Wachter residence. Urwin says flatly, playing along, dejected in tone but playing along.
Urwins attention turned then to Jack. Oh, master Jack, I know you likely have pressing business.. and I apologize for the guard. I have no idea what she is up to.. or Luvash I suppose... he says as he takes in the scene at the table once more. I am only glad it is the soulless folk and not.. others. Please do try not to tell Lady Wachter about what you just saw... it will cause me no end of potentially fatal trouble if word.... But yes yes, if I see Master Rictavio I shall pass along your message. But please try to hurry on that request.. every cycle of the ..'sun' that goes by my caskets dwindle ever more... and eventually... they will run dry.
Luckily for Beren, Nivi's strike was enough and he didn't have to further intervene. As he scanned the area aside from Urwin and his own party, only those few soulless were there, and in them he saw the eyes of people who did not care, for themselves, or anything else most likely. Their bodies still had their needs but Beren wouldn't be surprised if they were numb in all regards.. beyond even depression yet still alive.
The boy unconscious as Moira looks him over during the time that Nivi is effectively placating Urwin at most, as the other patrons don't react... she makes sure his heart is still beating, and his breathing normal 'enough' and after a few moments and various checks, determines that he is more or less fine beyond the bruising he would likely have within a few hours.
Things resolved, in one way shape or form at the Inn.. Give me a simple example of what you guys do next and I can flesh it out. I should be able to post by friday.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Nivi/Svenka tilts her head at Urwin, then considers a moment, hoping that the Innkeeper and his family do not become targets.
"Oh right. Cracked his skull outside, this one. Right? Just brought him in here to clean him off. Check his pulse. Dark elf healer inside and all. You carrying him home with us on your shoulder, right Beren? Seems like something the Avatar of the Sun would do. We'll see ourselves out."
Before departing, for some reason Nivi orders two cups of whatever Karl had been drinking and overpays for it, leaving 5 gold pieces for Urwin and Danika. She does not imbibe any, however, carrying the drinks out of the Blue Water Inn with her.
Once outside (and out of earshot/eyeshot of any ravens on the roof), Nivi proposes her plan to her companions, open to reasonable suggestions. In fact, as it stands, her plan will not fully work unless the group take a short rest, somewhere secluded, so that Jack can regain both uses of Wild Shape, but she does not know that yet. Her premise is that the Bones were stolen through misdirection and we are merely reclaiming them through misdirection. So...
She relates the specifics (as stated OOC): not just returning Karl to the Wachter home, but leaving him hidden an alley near the home, good and knocked out. Meanwhile, Nivi casts Disguise Self once more to look like a passed-out-drunk Karl and pours the drinks all over her face and a bit on her clothes to add some verisimilitude. So that she, and not Karl, is the body that is returned to the Wachter home in an effort to infiltrate it.
The plan also involves Jack in mastiff (Morty) form to sniff out the bones inside the house. So Jack would have to first Wild Shape into something small like a spider to be carried in with Nivi (disguised as passed-out-drunk Karl), perhaps hiding in her hair or clothes. Then, once in, Wild Shape again to turn into Morty to sniff out the bones. This is the point in the conversation at which Jack would presumably let her know that an hour's rest is required for that.
As for what Beren and Olamoira do, Nivi suggests not bringing up the Bones since that might arouse suspicion. Instead, as well-meaning newcomers, make a (genuine) plea for Lady Wachter to impart some sense to her son before he endangers himself (as he clearly has) through his drunken escapades.
(Nivi is open to suggestions to improve or change the plan!)
Mud(Paladin2):Frandal's Scourge/Inge(Barbarian1):Krayveneer's After the Fall/Seri(Cleric1/Sorcerer1):Uhtred's Windward Isles/Shin(Wizard2):Dimir_MTG's Surviving
Dyson/Eleo(Cleric3):Vos' Beyond the Veil/Soren(Druid4):Bartjeebus' Ravenloft/Nivi(Rogue3):Raiketsu's CoS/Lyra(Warlock2/Bard2):BlameItOnWinter's Will of the Ancients
Joren(Fighter5):NotDrizzt's Simple Request/Quyen(Adept1):Constance's Nentir Vale/Rel(Warlock2):Uhtred's Phandelver/Xarian(Fighter1/Wizard1):ShieldHero's Drakkenheim
"And you can only stretch things out by watering down a few services -- yes, yes, I... I understand." Jack assured Urwin in both words and clapping a gentle hand on the man's shoulder. "We'll see about keeping our other business in town as short and sweet as possible." Following the flashing of a quick smile and a couple more pats on the shoulder, the eladrin stepped away to follow Beren and "Svenka" at a fair distance of twenty or so feet.
Or so had been his plan at first, but Nivi saw to its swift and incidental ruination in prompting a meeting outside. Not that he overly minded as much! And nevertheless, he listened with rapt attention and with no small amounts of amusement creeping onto his face in a grin or mock surprise over certain aspects of Nivi's bold plan. "Mm~ Might've been easier to find such rest had that poor fellow there-" He gestures to the unconscious Karl. "-had not been so quickly and summarily been made to pay the sleep tax, but far too late to cry over spilled toys and what not I suppose. As for, eh, returning to my other state, a rat would suffice enough. That is, so long as she has no feline on the premises."
He closes his eyes for a moment and shudders as if relieving some unpleasant memory. "Alternatively, a weasel could.... actually, the safer bet might just be to go as a cat. I'd be more noticable that way, of course, but.... Hmm.... Now I'm complicating things with overcaution." He chuckles softly. "Bah. Direct me as you see fit in this little endeavor, my friends. Though Beren-" He gives the helmed man an eerily hard look. "If a moment presents itself, it may behoove you to see what ties she might have to a certain card reading we had before coming here. As I believe there was the one that was most curiously related. Though, it could be given the line about the treasure being near bones that I might very well stumble upon it anyhow.... still, best ot hedge our bets a little?"
Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Nobody - [Feral-Tiefling]Wizard/Sorcerer - War/Draconic (HoTDQ)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Dreams/Archfey
-
Hiatus:
Xanrazan - [Earth Genasi]Bard - College of Swords(Shadowthorn's Princess of the Apocalypse)
"He'll be all right," Olamoira mumbles, after checking over the unconscious boy. She looks up in surprise at Svenka's request that Beren carry him back home, but acceptance comes quickly over her face as they had, of course, planned to go to the Wachter residence anyway. Ola follows Beren and Svenka outside, only for it to slowly dawn on her that Svenka is really Nivi, in disguise. As she realizes this, a storm of anger crosses her features. She listens to the entirety of Nivi's plan, though, before she speaks up.
"Nivi? You have taken the visage of a person in this town, and stand to put her and her family in terrible danger by your actions in her form. Have you forgotten, already, your ire at whomever took your form, presumably, to tell Bluto to drown that poor girl? Yet you would put the same helpless fate to another. Shame on you! And you will do it again, as this Wachter lad? There is no need for this deception. To bring him home is certainly commendable, and we may see from there how the bones may be acquired. For if it is not theft to take what has been already stolen, the means by which we position ourselves to do so may be morally compromising in themselves. With the art of deception, injustice, and right neglect of an injured man, hiding him in an alleyway... this cannot be. I myself will volunteer to sneak into the house rather than accompany this plan."
Beren nods to Nivi, ready to go along with the plan even if he would much rather be more direct about accusing Wachter. He does have to admit that Jack is right in regards to their actions. Perhaps if they'd waited things could have gone easier. However, there was also the possibility that they could have lost their opportunity, so as the eladrin said, what's done is done.
The light behind the mask flares up substantially at the mention of the card reading. That hadn't even occurred to him until now, and... he does see Jack's point. His fist closes on the hilt given to him by Luvash, and it takes him a moment to realize he'd grabbed it instead of his own sword. Could this hilt belong to the blade spoken of in the reading? He can't help but be irritated at how quickly these prophecies seem to be taking hold. Great, so he's already set himself on a predestined path.
"Yes," he says, his voice low as he agrees. If Wachter is the woman mentioned in the reading, then... well, he won't be sorry for whatever happens while they attempt to recover the bones. If she is a friend of the darkness, then she is their enemy. That's that.
Then Olamoira speaks up, clearly displeased with their actions. Beren hadn't really considered that Svenka could be wrapped up in this. Urwin yes, but he figured he could alleviate that problem by taking responsibility. Really, the same could be said for Svenka, if Karl even remembers the face of the person who knocked him out when he wakes up. "I will take responsibility for what happened and avert the blame from Svenka and Urwin," he says. "As for this bastard," he nudges Karl. "He's apparently been making trouble for the whole town for a while, without punishment. My largest concern is more him waking up before Nivi can get out. Deception is not my strength, but I see the benefit of it in this scenario." The light behind the mask flickers for a moment as he looks at Olamoira. Part of him would rather Nivi or Jack be the one to talk to Wachter, considering they both are much better with words than he is. But right now, they need to make sure that no one is left alone in this endeavor, and Nivi and Jack stand the best chance at getting in unnoticed. Sighing, he says, "I understand your hesitance to go along with this, Olamoira, but if what Jack and I suspect is true about the Wachter woman..." Perhaps he shouldn't assume before confirming their suspicions.
He shakes his head before turning to Nivi, "Is there any other way you could enter undetected if we still return Karl to his home. Perhaps you help take him to his chambers and then assume the face of a guard?" He personally couldn't care less if they leave the kid in an alley, but if they can't get Olamoira on board then he's not sure how well this is going to work out. "If that is an option, I could still attempt to distract Wachter with conversation. If not, I will still follow through with the original plan. Olamoira, if you do not wish to involve yourself in his then you could stay behind and make sure nothing happens to Karl. Once this is over, I will see to it that Urwin and Svenka do not face ramifications for our actions. I do not see us making friends with Wachter, so I do not care if she finds out everything that has happened here. All that matters is that we recover the bones and see to it that they stay where they belong. Depending on how things turn out, we may need to get Luvash on our side to ensure Wachter stays in check... if there is anything he can do against her at all." He has is doubts there, considering the Wachter boys have evaded punishment thanks to their mother's money. Regardless, he also doubts that they will be able to recover the bones without making an enemy out of the Wachter household. That's something he accepted as soon as they discovered what happened to the bones.
He would rather not leave Olamoira by herself either, but if she doesn't want to go along with Nivi's plan, he also doesn't want her to attempt to sneak in on her own. It's dangerous enough for Nivi and Jack to sneak around one they get inside, to attempt to break in from the outside as well just adds more danger. If they are going to do that he might as well just storm the gates and create as big of a distraction for them as he can... and perhaps wring the information out of Wachter if he can get an audience with her.
Nivi accepts Jack's point with a wry twist of her mouth. She had not known how often he could turn into a beast without rest. Apparently just once more.
At Olamoira's forceful remonstration, Nivi tilts her head, listening. It is not the first time she's been dressed down and it certainly would not be the last unless the night proves fatal. She rolls her slim shoulders as Shiv flies down to perch upon one.
"Two people so different, you and me, one person's judgement makes no sense to the other. So no judgment, but most of that makes no sense to me. 'It is not theft to take what has been already stolen'? Right. Got to remember that one. Glad that'll let you feel better and keep your moral high ground, Prophet. Sneaking in, I've done plenty. Could do again if that's the plan. Second story work, taking something from the Baroness' own home when she doesn't know, and doesn't want you inside. Seems as deceptive and immoral in my book, all hair-splitting and moral fig-leaves aside. But what do I know. Thinking my plan's better since it gets by the house's outer defenses, watchdogs, maybe worse things ol' darklord gave Wachter to keep interlopers out. Sneak in, we have to deal with all that. Get in as Karl, maybe with Shorty in tow, we might be clear, and we get further into the place. Then 'Karl' can 'wake up' and wander around his own house. Seems like the best shot at getting the Bones back, you ask me."
"And you have it turned around with the whole 'ire' bit, Prophet. Strahd's ruse with the disguise? No ire. Respect his chops. Just shows he wants me dead. Little miffed at the folks back in town who thought I'd leave such an obvious trail back to myself, but I'll get over it. The real problem? Oh let's see, let's see... that's right! Strahd got Bluto to straight up murder an innocent kid. Almost worked until we stopped it. THAT'S the real problem I got with Mr. darklord. Not getting my feelings too mussed about some disguise. And last I checked, none of our plans have us killing kiddos. False equivalence."
Nivi looks at everyone. "Tell you what, though. Agree with one thing. This disguise was no good. Was thinking with all Smiley's going on about how we had no idea, the real danger she knows all about, that she wouldn't complain much at a little more of it coming her way. But that's not right. So listen. You don't own this, Beren. I'll walk back in there and tell Urwin and Danika what's what right now. And Karl when he's awake? I'll tell him to his face who put him down. Me, not Smiley. Same with Lu-lu if he asks. Should have just done it as me all along. Saved some of my magic too."
"So I'll go with whatever plan we pick. Listen. Karl's fine. He'd probably be like this with another hour's worth of drinks anyway. Yeah Beren, I could try to sneak in while you all return him for real. Or maybe Shorty comes with me. Maybe Prophet too. It's all good. Until the watchdogs or zombies or whatever else Wachter has guarding her grounds sniff us out and it goes sideways. It's why I still like my plan better."
Mud(Paladin2):Frandal's Scourge/Inge(Barbarian1):Krayveneer's After the Fall/Seri(Cleric1/Sorcerer1):Uhtred's Windward Isles/Shin(Wizard2):Dimir_MTG's Surviving
Dyson/Eleo(Cleric3):Vos' Beyond the Veil/Soren(Druid4):Bartjeebus' Ravenloft/Nivi(Rogue3):Raiketsu's CoS/Lyra(Warlock2/Bard2):BlameItOnWinter's Will of the Ancients
Joren(Fighter5):NotDrizzt's Simple Request/Quyen(Adept1):Constance's Nentir Vale/Rel(Warlock2):Uhtred's Phandelver/Xarian(Fighter1/Wizard1):ShieldHero's Drakkenheim
Olamoira listens as Nivi commendably explains her view on the plan. After the memories disturbingly triggered by the young high elf had faded or otherwise found their way back to their proper place in the dark recesses of Ola's mind, Ola since realized that she likes Nivi's candor and unabashed ambition for worthy goals. She has a good heart, better than mine, Ola concludes, she just doesn't understand the difference between right and wrong, and that is only because she's never learned it.
"Here is one thing to consider," Ola says, addressing all of them. "What knowledge and powers we have may be considerable, but they do not match the extent of any situation we will be in. We cannot know, or control, everything that is involved in our action or its consequences. We never can. There will always be factors we did not consider. Everything may change in a moment in a way we did not expect and could not predict. I am a drow. I understand control, and the lengths to which my people go to secure it. Horrific lengths. And yet a light broke through, when control began to cost more and more blood. When it cost those I held dear, by my own hand. I lost control of everything then. Who, then, is in control, if we are not? It is the Divine Order only that is in control, weaving a tapestry far beyond what our eyes can see. We may look at a situation and think that this, or that, approach may give us the best outcome, the best hope of achieving our goal. But we don't know if that's true, and we can't know. We can make our best judgment, but it is never guaranteed. That is why, in any situation, we must start from principle, not from our own limited judgment of what will grant us success. That is the basis by which we must act, or we move out of alignment with Divine Order, trying to set ourselves up as gods who know more than our ken, yet we can divine no motive of the gods ourselves. Choose your principles, then, and stick to them, and the Divine Light will protect you. Not as you would have it, but for the ultimate good and right. Be a part of that order, and not of one you make yourself. That is what I have learned, and so that I will adhere to, or there is no salvation for me."
She tilts her head to one side, pondering. "The bones must be reclaimed. To call it stealing could be confusing--if you, say, Nivi, grab Beren's sword and walk off with it, is it stealing if he comes after you and takes it back? You had no claim to it, and he does, so if he takes it back from you, you could not in justice call him a thief. One may take what one has no right to, but that does not grant the right. If it did, the concept of stealing would not exist. We act on behalf of Saint Andral, against one who has taken that which she has no claim to. And, this is another reason why we must adhere to the same principles that the saint would; because we are acting on his behalf. Our success may be dependent in ways that we do not know on his assistance, and on the assistance of the Divine who succors him. I have said this already, and saw it dismissed, but the mission or purpose for which we work here--it is not mundane, not purely natural. This is a spiritual battle. And so our own adherence to Divine Law must be impeccable or we may fail. The ends do not justify the means, and this is a cornerstone of Divine Law."
"So, if you like, Nivi, I will sneak in with you, and Jack, while Beren returns the lad..."
When Nivi states that she will take responsibility for her own actions, Beren just inclines his head in agreement. He'd expected as much, having just wanted to assure Olamoira that they would ensure no one outside their own group suffered for their actions. Still, he doesn't like the idea of the three of them trying to sneak in. Nivi's original plan still sounds like the best option, even if Olamoira doesn't like it. It cuts the risk in half, and... while he usually isn't one to worry about risks, in this instance he isn't working alone. Just because he's willing to throw himself into the crossfire doesn't mean he's willing to let the others do so as well. Then again, Olamoira seems perfectly willing to take whatever risks are necessary. He's not too keen on trusting this Divine Light, regardless of how benevolent or wise it is supposed to be. Right now, he doesn't see any issue with letting this kid take some punishment for his actions. If what they've heard about him is true, leaving him in the alley likely won't pose much of a threat to him. Most of the people here are soulless, so they shouldn't mess with him, and the rest of them seem afraid of Wachter. Their largest concern would be some other Good Samaritan finding him and returning him home... leading to two Karl's being dragged to Wachter's doorstep.
He sighs, releasing a puff of light as he shakes his head and crosses his arms. This is becoming way to complicated.
"I have to agree with Nivi," he says finally. "Her plan is much safer than all three of you attempting to sneak in." He tilts his mask towards Olamoira, "I understand your conviction, even if I do not necessarily agree with it, but in my opinion..." he hesitates, as if unused to giving his own opinion on plans proposed by another. "I don't see a problem with leaving Karl here. I doubt anyone will do him harm considering his families reputation, and if all goes according to plan, this venture shouldn't last long. If we wanted to, we could bring him closer to the manor before leaving him, and perhaps Nivi could wander back outside in disguise. Then we could bring the real Karl back again, this time leaving him with the guards..." He shakes his head, letting out another sigh before saying, "I have never attempted anything like this before. So, I will follow whatever plan the rest of you think is feasible."
The more they delay, the less he wants to bother with deception and stealth. He's starting to think waiting until Karl wakes up so they could interrogate the kid would be their best option, but he won't say that out loud. He also has a feeling that Olamoira may be even less on board with that idea than she is with Nivi's.
Nivi listens respectfully to Olamoira, hearing her out.
"You mean what you say, Prophet. Respect that. Don't mean I agree, though. Yeah, I have no control. Doesn't mean Divine Order's in control. That's your leap of faith. Who knows if you're right. I do what I think is right, most times. Not always, like with the Svenka thing here. But stealing something back, - no way is that moral in my book. Whole concept only works if everyone agrees who stole from who. Gets messy. Maybe the guy who took Beren's sword thinks it was theirs to start with. Starts wars, things like that, one side forever taking back what they think is theirs. Endless cycle."
"This case? Best I can tell, stealing the Bones back is the right job. Wachter's probably Strahd's ally and tricked the kiddos into lifting the Bones, which likely ain't hers or for any good cause, to take away the church's protection. Father Lucian's a good man. So yeah, I'm in for getting the Bones back. Just don't see it as moral, or saintly like you do. Way I see it, it's no more moral to sneak our way in your way, than to trick our way in like I say. Far as I'm concerned, 'reclaiming' the Bones by breaking and entering is every bit as much 'ends justifying means' as my disguising myself as ol' Karl."
Nivi shrugs. "Anyway, you all know my vote. Trick, not break in. Be right back." And with that, she turns and trots back into the Blue Water Inn.
Summoning Urwin (and Danika if she is near) close for a private conversation, she tells them who she really is, and to clear things up in case Svenka gets blamed. Tells them the party suspect Lady Wachter of a grave crime (Nivi winces at her unintentional pun, one for which her oh-so-perfect bard of a little sister would have mocked her mercilessly, she imagines) but leaves it at that, not going into specifics.
She looks them in the eye as she hands them ten gold pieces before leaving to rejoin her companions. "Know it doesn't come close to making up for what went down here. Best I can do for now. We'll try to make this right. And hopefully find out what's what at the winery for you once we're done here."
Mud(Paladin2):Frandal's Scourge/Inge(Barbarian1):Krayveneer's After the Fall/Seri(Cleric1/Sorcerer1):Uhtred's Windward Isles/Shin(Wizard2):Dimir_MTG's Surviving
Dyson/Eleo(Cleric3):Vos' Beyond the Veil/Soren(Druid4):Bartjeebus' Ravenloft/Nivi(Rogue3):Raiketsu's CoS/Lyra(Warlock2/Bard2):BlameItOnWinter's Will of the Ancients
Joren(Fighter5):NotDrizzt's Simple Request/Quyen(Adept1):Constance's Nentir Vale/Rel(Warlock2):Uhtred's Phandelver/Xarian(Fighter1/Wizard1):ShieldHero's Drakkenheim
Urwin couldn't quite tell if the Eladrin was being sincere, or if he was patronizing him but he elected to choose the former in his assumption, breathing only a half-sigh of relief that the party had not forgotten his request from the prior day. Regarding Nivi breifly and saying It certainly seems that way. His tone was strained still b ut not as much as it might have ben prior to both peoples assurances. Though he was still cleaning a new dish extra hard even as the gold sat on the counter, him eying them breifly intent to pocket it once the group was out of the inn. Ultimately Urwin didn't seem so much mad, as he was a mix of feelings. Obviously he seemed glad the codger had gotten some comeuppance, yet also worried about what it might mean for him if it was discovered that it had happened within his establishment.
( Consciousness roll: 3 )
Though it seems Karl will likely be out for several hours, by Moira's estimation, atleast 3 (as per original dice roll above, in case it 'manip rolls')
Eventually Nivi makes her way back in, the original 5 gold pieces gone, and Urwin suffering from adrenaline crash, sighing heavily as if he'd just finished a long run without moving. Despite this, he puts on his best smile as Svenka returns only to inform him of what was really going down. It didn't seem to abate his current plateu of concern but he seemed to understand more of the situation, however as the gold is offered, he takes only half of it. You and yours have already given me five... And if this is your folks doing, I have a feeling you're more likely to succeed than not... I only ask you leave our establishments name from your tongues, unless it is somehow already known to them... Which I doubt but... who knows.. he says defeatedly.
((Seems everyone's still sort of planning... so I'll need a concrete decision on the 'approach' or approache's' basically I need to know who is doing what so I can play out the beginning and you can all go from there. It's still somewhat up in the air at the moment))
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Previously back at the bar:
Though his wording and attitude might've come off somewhat flippant in the moment, Jack had been sincere to Urwin. On the other hand, whether or not the group would manage to avoid becoming embroiled in so much more within the city was.... beyond any word of certainty. At least not one the Druid had been willing to provide...
Closer to the Present:
As much as Jack appeared to idly be enjoying listening to the exchange between others (at least for the most part), even to the point that some greenery began creeping its way into his hair and skin, even he was not immune to experiencing some measure of reflection in the heat of a moment. So it was that his attention began to waver as assuredly as his gaze upon the others, as the debate over the plan left him looking a mixture between a pinch of guiltiness, but also a touch something indescribable.
Hearing the name 'Strahd' though not only immediately draws Jack's attention back to the present, but with a shudder of discomfort at that. If anyone took notice however he's quick to play it off as always. But in the absence of any more dedicated attempts to dissuade questioning, he'd simply give Nivi nod before she jets back to the Inn. As she does, Jack motioned for the rest of the party to continue down the street with complete confidence in Nivi catching up swiftly; especially given the deadweight slung over Beren's shoulders.
In the meantime, he'd try to make himself at least a little useful in examining 'Kaaaarl~' and try his best to gauge how much time the group might have until his inevitable awakening.
Medicine: 18.(16)
Once Nivi's return and presumably without even MORE things to consider, Jack says, "For the record, I'm all for the whole, uhhh, two pronged assault as it were. But if that means my innocent and dear Beren here on his lonesome, well... I'm not sure I can have that now~" He pauses just long enough to let the words sink in before sighing softly in exasperation. "That all said, let's first find an alleyway at least 'near' the estate -- one hopefully with plentiful enough debris to shield ourselves and darling Karl as well. That way we can continue to hash things out while I recover a bit more of strength, and in this way your humble servant here may yet have more options and means to serve." He half-jokingly gives a bow to the others. "But frankly speaking, if this whole matter is so very, very, ehhh,... divisive, then we might as well stick to the brute option of getting Luvash involved immediately. Odds are that'll complicate things just as assuredly as anything else we do! BUT it would perhaps be the safest route for us. Just couldn't say the same for the guards depending on just how 'tight' the good Lady is with the dark landlord and any vassals he might have seeded throughout the realm... Speaking of which, we should look into that at some point, Beren." At that, he continues onward down the road with the presumption of others at least following along, walking and talking until the group found their alleyway to finalize things.
Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Nobody - [Feral-Tiefling]Wizard/Sorcerer - War/Draconic (HoTDQ)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Dreams/Archfey
-
Hiatus:
Xanrazan - [Earth Genasi]Bard - College of Swords(Shadowthorn's Princess of the Apocalypse)
Beren huffs, growing impatient. "I'll be fine. If we follow Nivi's original plan, Olamoira will accompany me. If not, I suspect the three of you will be in more danger than I." That was something he did not like. Still, at this point he just wants to get this over with. Using Luvash doesn't seem like the best option, but then again what does he know? "I do not like the idea of using Luvash, as I am unsure of how effective it would be. Wachter seems to have enough power already to keep him in check. If we want someone to storm the keep, I might as well do it myself." He pauses, crossing his arms and shaking his head before staring at Karl for a good moment. Regardless as to whether or not him 'storming the keep' himself would even be possible, he doesn't seem to think it any less feasible than getting Luvash and whatever men the burgomaster commands to do it for them.
After a moment he says, "If we change plans, perhaps it would be better for Jack to find that bard and see about infiltrating that way. Perhaps you could weasel more information out of her than I would be able to." He shakes his head, more at himself than anything else before adding, "I will agree with you, Jack. We should determine if Wachter has any relations with Strahd. However, I do not know how effective I will be at gathering that information if I speak to her alone." Cleaver conversation is not something he has as a strength. If intimidation is an option in this, then he could use that to his advantage, but that could quickly go wrong and stir up trouble before they even have a chance to learn anything. Either way, if he is the one to speak to the Lady, then he doubts that he'll be able to get any of the wanted information from her without making her their enemy in the process. If that's not a problem, fine, he'll do what's needed. But if they have any desires to not make an enemy with this first visit, then it is something to consider. "Whatever we choose, we should make haste about it. If we want to use Karl's current state to our advantage, whether it be bringing him to Wachter, or leaving him here, then our time is running short."