Jack joins the commotion, saying nothing and standing beside Beren and Moira, near the unconscious -and slightly bloody- Wachter Matriarch. Breifly, Luvash acknowledges what Moira said, offering her a nod so she would know he had heard her. Aye, though somehow I doubt she was worshipping in true. She was a con-artist in the end, and every few months she seemed to have some new scheme or another. Dunno if she had a devil but I can see the mark on your neck from here. and it was true, the tail had struck deep, and left a welt where it had been, and likely without rest or a proper spell, it would linger for a while, though wouldn't cause any farther harm. The wind picked up just a bit, though it provided no relief from the fog or mist, as it brought just as much with its somber path as it pushed away.
Luvash looking up into the sky with a sigh. The guards remaining dutifully at attention, though clearly bored - They had once more put their weapons at slack-ready (as they would while waiting at a gate, guarding it). For once, Luvash's tone was serious, rather than lazy-roguish poor-humor. Oi, lass. You're taking this fall far too seriously. his arms crossed. Aye, you were, and Aye, I thought it'd be a funny jab. You should to. Wachter's unconscious? Thank you fer informing me. I wasn't aware you couldn't talk at someone what were napping. Oh wait... you can! It's a joke. Calm your skirts, wench. You are single handedly making me wonder if perhaps I misplaced my trust and should take back that hilt from you all so it don't get lost in a more permanent manner.
His attention was solely on her now, and his eyes burning with the faint coals of fustration. I don't care if you like me, or my methods. I don't care what name you call me. I've kept this town safe through how I've handled it. Because, unlike you... I understand Strahd.. because i'm Vistani, lass. We are his favored people, and he is our patron. But just like all Vistani don't like what Strahd has become, many do. Many in this town here don't like that I'm harsh on the dissenters who actively try to cause harm to the folk here, but many do. I could just leave this land behind, and live in Faerun, but i choose not to, to try to guide souls with some sense and a bit of heart in the direction of Strahds heart because that is the only way you can leave, and the only way he will stop bein a tyrant to the poor folk who.. like you, are trapped in the cage with the tiger with no hope.
Strahd thrives on terrorizing people. He kills entire families for fun, or to make points, just to see how people'll react. he pauses only to take a deep breath. The gamblin' lad what came with your friends there... he said, pointing at the others. Did they tell you what Strahd did that effected him so?
Strahd strode in with a boy of barely ten summers. Taunted them with the boys life. When your friend there, Beren, bravely stood up to him, he was smacked down to the earth and nearly died. Then, as the man was about to reach the boy, Strahd blew 'im up, the boy, i mean... just because he could.
His arms spread out, and he turns here and there, looking around. You saved some orphans? Returned a holy relic? Saved my daughter? All are good things, aye! And I mean that with no disrespect, and honest praise. But Strahd wants to **** with your mind, and your psyche. He wants to see what it takes to break you. He wants you to entertain him until he bores of you. He'll kill your friend for no reason than to see what expression you make. He'll turn your family into vampire spawn, to revel in the irony of watching you die to your own children's hands! at this point his voice had rose, and even the soulless, normally passive, were looking at him, though no sign of interest crossed their features, they were simply observing the loud man.
And if so little a thing as a joke, poor taste, tone deaf, or otherwise is enough to rattle you this much, then you're just going to end up falling for his schemes, and ending up little more than a blood-meal for a vampire. If you can't smile when you need to, even if its at your own expense, you'll lose heart long before you ever see his castle.
his hand rushing out to swipe the offered book, opening it to look through and skim its contents. Taking roughly a minute in this before saying in a flat tone. Aye, this is enough proof to jail 'er. Though I still doubt she has had any contact with many.. if any.. otherworldly beings.. atleast not any that weren't brought in from the outside. You know neither the divine or the hells can penetrate this plane. And if you didn't before, you do now. Any of you serve a diety or a devil, I'm sure you've noticed you can't quite commune with them as well. Maybe a whisper, little else.
Not sure why, but this is Strahds domain, and no others hold power here.
Strahd is no longer the benevolent savior he was when the Vistani saved him all those centuries ago. And thats why I'm against him myself. I want to save him from himself. And the only way to do that is to end him, as much as it saddens me. from the tales we pass down, he used to be a good man, till he lost his woman or so the tale goes.
To be honest, I wouldn't have cared if you robbed the ***** blind. Vistani steal and con those we don't respect. that brought a slight uncomfortable shuffle from the guards but they maintained decorum. I do thank you for finding out about Wachters plans and for bringing them to light. We'll put her in a cell until she talks, or we figure out. Her boys'll complain but nothin they can do.
I'll say one last thing, though I'm sure you're tired of hearin' it. This place is dangerous... the land, i mean. And Strahd is the top of the food chain. If you need a yard stick to compare by. Your group 'ere is just one of hundreds, if not thousands lured inside, and because Strahd still lives, it means they all failed.
...... Or gave up and lived here like the bard. As for saving my girl.. once again, you have my eternal gratitude. That won't change barring a few things that I doubt you'd do. But again, you four are gonna have to learn to laugh more if you want to keep your spirits high. Even if you just keep repeatin' the same joke. The moment you can't laugh no more, is the moment Strahd's guillotine will fall.
((((I re-read post #907 ten times after you said she stated her reasoning. But I don't see it. You explain it to us/me as the players/DM why you're doing it but she never says it until post #910.
(in 907)Her words don't convey it to him, and in the non verbal portion its never stated that she explains it or states it in any way to Luvash himself, or to any other NPC/Character. So in my post where he slaps her back, from his perspective, all he would see is Nivi coming up, and him being slapped by a hand he can see, and a hand he cannot, for what to him would appear to be suddenly, and for no reason)))
Nivi begins to fidget and look bored as Luvash gets well into his multi-paragraph soliloquy. Much as her mind had wandered when her tutors droned on, while her sister had lapped up every word. She hears her sister's melodious voice in her mind. Methinks the gentleman doth protest too much.
"Sure, Lu-lu. I'm hearing you got yourself a silver tongue and a slick sense of humor that ain't tone deaf at all. And here I thought a joke had to be funny to get some laughs from anyone not on your dime. But yeah, no chuckles from us - must be cause the darklord's mists ate our sense of humor, not any lack on your part, no. You're a real stand-up guy too, to hear you tell it for the last five minutes. Got to remember that next time you grope me."
Having clearly formed her opinion of Luvash, Nivi is ready to move on. "You got the devil-book. You know Wachter's the one who impersonated me to get Bubbles to chuck your daughter into the lake. All this to overthrow you, yeah? Oh, don't think I mentioned she's got dead old Lord Wachter up in the master bed, dressed to the nines and coins on his eyes. Not rotting cause of some enchantment. Good times. So... we done here?"
Having counted off the main points, she turns back to her companions one eyebrow raised as if to ask, anything else for Mr. stand-up guy Lu-lu here?
Despite himself, Jack faintly nodded at some points of Luvash, but at others... there were definitely moments of either frowning at one point, and a clearly forced attempt at keeping his expression neutral at others. But it's only when he finally and fully seemed to accept the book as proof enough that the eladrin's shoulders finally relax as the tension left them. Still, any other semblance of relief shown in that moment is quick to fade in the wake of Nivi's frank response. Which he listened to respectfully, and even cracked a smile at what at least felt like sarcasm at some points. Although the moment anyone pays too much attention to it he'd try to hide it behind a sudden need to massage his jaw or look off into the dark at something.
"... Eheh... yes, well, uhm... It is getting rather late, and I dare to imagine you'll have your work cut out preparing things for sorting out Lady Wachter here; especially if she yet happens to have sharp eared supporters out and about... like that bard, you mentioned?" Jack said, initially sounding sheepish before feigning a thoughtful look while rubbing his chin. "A charming fellow as I recall and not likely to get directly involved in matters. But as they say back faerun, often a few choice words in the right places can lead to most unexpected results. But, what do I know?" Jack feigns a smile as he shrugged, then turned to regard his party. "Either way, we have to get up quite bright and early ourselves, don't we? Promises to keep and shinies to find as we travelers are want to do, no?"
Olamoira listens to Luvash's spiel with interest, especially the parts about Strahd. There is almost a familiarity in her expression, the way she listens to Luvash's horror stories. "There is nothing that Strahd can show me that I have not seen already... or done. False accusations? Framings? Murder? Treachery? Deceit? Twisting a victim's mind until they break? All I have done. All I have seen the emptiness of. I am not afraid of Strahd. And perhaps one day he will achieve the grace of the Light as I have, even though I must always walk in Twilight. Ah! Strahd is the sort who weaves webs... like my people do... but is chained to them himself far more tightly than are any of his victims. If they find a way to escape, they can leave the web forever. Not so the one who spins it... yes, I think we are in quite an advantageous position with regards to Strahd." Ola seems unperturbed by the argument between Nivi and Luvash, staring off into some higher eternal realm as she often does. "He has not learned how to transcend his own suffering, and so he spirals further and further down... who fears him murdering children before our eyes? I don't. I have done worse, myself."
Beren listens in silence, feeling he already made his opinion clear by his quickness to drop the subject. He doesn't particularly like Luvash and has said as much before, what little respect he had for the man has since dwindled both because of the poorly timed joke and his response to Nivi. On one hand he wasn't thrilled about the elf dragging out the encounter, wishing she'd just let the prank go so they could just move on. On the other hand he realizes that he is accustomed to ignoring or accepting things he doesn't appreciate whereas she is not. In another life, he might have given the same reaction as she, especially considering her words. So, he is content to let Nivi handle it how she sees fit.
Laughter isn't something Beren was very familiar with personally--a rather sad reality but the truth. Yet all of Luvash's talk about learning to laugh more lest they become easy prey for the vampire fell flat to him. It isn't like he ever really had high spirits, so he doubts whatever happens in the future will shake his resolve. Did he think this was really something to get worked up about? Not really. Did it irritate him? Yes, yes it did. His anger remains clear though it has died down to burning annoyance at this point. He never really was given an option to state his opinion in the past, and so that translates to now as he keeps his mouth shut.
It is obvious though that this exchange bothered Nivi greatly, and that in turn bothers him as well. From his perspective, Luvash is just another man who reeks of evil. Just like the rest of the people in this town. That fact speaks for itself, so even if the Vistani thinks he's in the right he clearly has other intentions or motives as well--at least in Beren's mind. Otherwise why would his aura translate to wickedness to the paladin's senses? Perhaps there is more to Luvash than meets the eye, and Beren cannot deny what the man said about the Vistani's ability to leave. So he chose to stay and stand against Strahd? Good for him. Perhaps there is some undetectable goodness in his heart somewhere. But regardless, actions speak louder than words, and right now Beren just witnessed him slap his comrade and then proceed to spew excuses for his actions.
He glances at Olamoira as she speaks of 'having done worse' grimacing at the mention of what he'd witnessed the vampire do prior to meeting the two women. Part of him wonders if her words are as true as they sound, considering she's always seemed to view and present herself. Yet he also knows a little about the drow, though not enough to really draw conclusions. Still, what does it matter to him? The mask hides a frown as he realizes that he'd grabbed the broken hilt at some point during his thoughts. Worthy? Him? Perhaps Luvash isn't the only one with a poor sense of humor.
With a sigh, Beren lifts Wachter by one arm and drags her over to the nearest guard. "Lock her up with some magics in place. I don't know the extent of her abilities but she had enough power to impersonate Nivi so I wouldn't doubt that she could break out of a cell. At the very least, keep her gagged and bound." He drops her, clearly expecting the guard to take care of that issue moving forward. Then he turns to Luvash and Nivi, the light glowing steadily as if to reinforce Nivi's question to Luvash. Are we done here? Beren clearly is.
"I assume your men will handle this from here, so unless there is something else you need from us I personally would like to tend to my wounds." Tend to his wounds, and get away from the Church before a third elven woman decides to come outside and see what the talk is about.
With a dismissive hand wave, Luvash bats away Nivi's retorts with the simplest of replies. You'll learn one way or another lass, no matter what you think of me. Motioning for the retinue whom was with him to take care of the Wachter issue. They did as ordered aside from two of them who stayed by his side. As the guards picked Wachter up from the gorund -not too gently for Wachter- He then responded to Moira, crossing his arms -in a comfortable way, not defiant- Maybe not you. I've heard plenty of tales of the Drow. Most of them bad. Though I've heard o' Drizzit or however you say his name. As long as you can all keep yer composure, you atleast won't die easily. As for what exactly made him spiral.. and I know you didn't ask... but no clue what was the true trigger, or if it was a set of things. Those are the finer details that no one really knows cept Strahd himself.
One of the guards, when Beren mentions to keep an eye out, they shrug in a manner before simply saying it We will try.. but we don't have any anti-magic. All we'll have are the old peepers. So .. I say we just keep an eye on her day and night, and make sure everyone knows that 'no, I am not in the cell asking you to let me out' and the like. But we'll try. We just don't have any way that isn't... mundane. the guard admits, hoping that would be good enough for the man.
Luvash finally satisfied that Wachter was under arrest in true, says Aye. Nothign else. Wouldn't have been here if I hadn't been called if I'm being honest. Be about your business. He says matter of factly. Waiting till Wachter was being carried proper before heading back up the way he originally came.
The group makes their way back to the Blue Water Inn, just as the evening is settling in. Many people are here... or atleast many by this towns standards. The two hunters who had been here before were not here this night. Though Urwin, his wife, as well as Bluto, who was nursing on some heavily watered down ale from a less than clean mug, sat alone in the corner of the room, with the leavings of a single cooked chicken leg. Though true to his charge, Arugal was watching him, bored out of his mind by the looks of it, but he was doing his job... away from the sop of a man. His eye met the group as they came in with the speed of a hawk, and left just as swiftly. Acknowledging you were all here but not in a mood to talk. He too had an ale and a meal, though his was atleast the average fare of the inn.
Urwin smiled when he saw you all enter, this time, no birds had been present on the way in - atleast not that anyone noticed - Ah! Welcome back. I hope your day wasn't overly eventful. Sit, sit. I'll have my wife make you all a complimentary.. though small meal. If you want more you'll have to pay... I want to be generous but.. well I'm working on a copper budget as it is.
Though wounded and tired, Nivi is all business, chatting up Urwin and his wife while nibbling on her meager dinner. Using her dagger as a utensil.
Call me crazy, but those ravens act like his eyes and ears. Could be Urwin knows more than he lets on but doesn't trust us yet. Don't blame him, really...
"Might not look like it, Urwin," Nivi grins as she realizes she has not thought of a nickname for the innkeeper. Somehow she thinks Mr. Raven-Man might be too on-the-nose... "... but we're still on the job like a longshoreman on his lager. Wizard of Wines. Tomorrow, yeah? Thing came up with the church and Father Lucian. That's what was up couple-three hours back when we took out Karl. Hoping no blowback from that - you let us know if there is."
Hope we can trust Lu-Lu to at least keep the Wachters in check for now...
She glances briefly at Arugal and Bluto with cool reserve, wondering whether it would be wise to bring those two the next day... then looks back at Urwin.
"Gotta ask though." Nivi lowers her voice so only Urwin and her companions can hear. "These wine shipments. How do they even get through, normally? Everyone and their brother keeps jawing about how dangerous this place is. Truth is, no need to warn me, coz I've believed it from the start. So really, no surprise if it's undead or wolves or hags or dark druids or barbarians or whatever ambushing the shipments and taking out the couriers, yeah? All the baddies those hunters Szoldar and Yevgeni talk about in their cups. Thinking any trade down the roads here's always a risky proposition."
She pauses, pointing with her dagger and the bit of food on it for emphasis. "So what's different now?"
Unfortunately, Nivi's normally sharp read on people isn't the best with Mr. Raven-Man, Urwin. Insight: 7 (Passive: 15)
Urwin shrugs with uncertainty. Thing is, I don't know. I know a lot.. beign an innkeeper.. what few adventurers pass through always eventually come here. But my father runs the winery itself, and he can be a bit... well. So it's a bit more difficult for me to learn what exactly is going on. He has always kept the winery functioning, with me selling it. but the relationship is strained, and I have not heard anything in the time frame I've told you. And its unlike him not to maintain atleast base contact.. for business atleast. he says as he moves some objects behind the counter around, and the sounds of stacking plates can just barely be heard.
So I wish I could answer that question, unfortunately, I cannot. Normally though, my father, a rather accomplished man himself I hate to admit, and others would guard the wagons between here and there. And we keep the winery safe as well in a similar fashion, which is why I don't understand why the shipments haven't came in. It has been generation after generation.. the winery predates the ... he rolls his hand as if it would help stir the thought, the proper word or phrase to come up, and after several seconds an 'ah' Condition of this land... as it were. Back when Barovia was part of Faerun. Before it became an isolated land. And just in case you missed it... I'm saying that my father and some other strong folk would guard the shipments.
"You'd be surprise how effective mundane solutions can be, Luvash. And as I doubt she was so skilled practioner as to have mastered casting at least simple spells with her toes -- and yes, that is a thing! Though that takes decades of dedicated practice, so I wouldn't worry too much about that. And if you do need her to speak, make sure's blinded and still bound as most charms require seeing your intended... prey." Jack flashes a broad smile. "Buuut in any event, we bid you adieu, Burgomaster, and I hope you and yours have a more pleasant day." With that and a final bow given, Jack more than readily followed after the others to their next destination...
"The hospitality is appreciated as always, Urwin." Is Jack's immediate response as he took up the innkeeper's offer. At first content to patiently wait on the meal and drink to arrive, he perked up a bit at Nivi's line of questioning, and looked to Urwin all the more interested in the answer. Near as he could tell he wasn't Vistani, be it by blood or association, though the idle thought alone led to him peering over steepled fingers at the man, hands being propped up with elbows at rest on the bar.
"Starting to see even more so why you are so concerned. Fortunately, barring an revelatory incident come the morning, I don't see us NOT heading out then and there. Though, how long did you say it would take to get up there by the way? At least by foot, though I suppose we do have the option of the wagon should we get another horse for that I suppose."
Beren nods to Jack... blindfolding Wachter was not something he'd thought of, but then again he wasn't all that well versed in casting spells either. To the guards he says, "Mundane should be good enough so long as you are vigilant. Bind her, blindfold her, and keep her gagged while you can."Some spells require spoken word, or so he's been told.
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Reaching the inn, Beren nods to Argual before the man scampers off. He can't blame him for wanting to get away as quickly as possible, Beren likely would have reacted the same had he been forced to babysit Bluto for as long as Argual had.
"Thank you,"he says wearily to Urwin, unsure of how else to respond to the innkeeper's offer of food. Whatever Urwin is willing to provide will be enough, right now Beren just wants to get some sort of nourishment and then head to his room to recuperate. He might have gotten through that fight with minimal injuries, but all this talking and such has left him more drained then he'd care to admit.
He listens silently as Nivi questions and Urwin answers about the wine shipments, but doesn't have anything to ask or add to either as of right now. Instead he finds a seat and waits for the others to sort out what tomorrow will look like. It doesn't take long for him to become lost in thought, absently tapping the broken hilt with one finger before realizing what he was doing. Why does this sword bother him so? Tomorrow he'll leave it tucked away in his pack, or strap it to his back instead, somewhere out of reach and out of mind.
Olamoira smiles and accepts Urwin's offer of a small meal. "Our day has been anything but uneventful," she says, "but it has borne much fruit, and so I am at peace." She listens as Nivi discusses the particulars of and risks of trade and shipments with Urwin, but she isn't paying attention. Her tired mind is still on the events of the day, of the escapade with Karl where she sat in the alley to wait because she would not participate in the deceptive ploy, and how glad she had been to see Beren and storm Lady Wachter's manor with him as a distraction while Nivi and Jack furiously searched the manor for the bones. Just recalling how everything had happened--despite the drama and disaster of the bloodthirsty demon worshippers and the inadvertant setting of the house on fire--made her smile. They had succeeded. The favor of Saint Andral was with them, and they had returned his relics to their proper resting place. And in fact the Saint had left them a present in return... Ola finds her eyes drawn to the broken hilt at Beren's waist that the knight is restlessly tapping. She remembers Nivi telling her about how the gem that was with the bones had fit precisely in the hilt. "Beren," she says, suddenly becoming curious, "what does that gem do for your sword, exactly?"
Beren hesitates... his sword? It feels wrong to call it that... to him it's just the sword. He looks down at the hilt, then back to Olamoira, the light flickering as he says uncertainly "I... don't know." He removes the sword from his belt and sets it on the table between them so that she can see it. He'd intended to let everyone inspect it before they decided who would wield it... and while he'd expected that it would suit him or Olamoira best, he really hadn't expected it to stay with him. "It seems to have given it sentience... or returned sentience to it?"He leans back in his chair, crossing his arms and staring at the hilt. "It spoke in my mind, wanting us to reforge it."Again, he leaves out the sunlight part, feeling like this is all the information he need share at the moment. The rest shouldn't be important until they decide to pursue mending the blade.
Ola curiously touches the hilt with one finger, tracing the gem. Her eyes shimmer and she murmurs a magical word as her tracing takes on the somatic component for Detect Magic. "It spoke to you?" she says to Beren. "Do you suppose the sword is a force for good, or for evil? Or neither?"
Urwin, by the time Jack had asked his question, was already turned around, seeming to be taking stock counts wordlessly, though he spoke as he did so. From Vallaki, depending on your speed... and if you follow the road... a little more than half a day at a walking pace. It is West of here, past the first, second, and third forks in the road. The fourth path that leads south-west, is the one you want.. if you want a simple way of considering it. It will eventually turn from a properly worn road to a more wild one not long after, but a path nonetheless. As for horses, assuming everything is good enough, should be on that side of the target.. at the Winery. And you are welcome Beren. it's not much, but any food is good food, my mother always said! showing that Urwin was likely a mothers man.
And we have made your rooms fresh as can be, even added a few blankets to make it softer, at no cost. Considering you are doing something for us. We will also prepare you some travel food that can be kept for several hours before spoiling. It won't be anything fancy but it will keep your belly full enough for that day atleast, and taste a level above rations atleast if our salt has anything to say about it.
Moira casts her spell subtly. And as before, the hilt itself beams with holy energy, leaning towards a green color now - Conjuration. However, it is not noticeably more or less brilliant than before. She can just barely sense a mind, or a psuedo mind but it is weak, fragile, barely there. Like a battery left too long without purpose, clinging to the last vestiges of energy within it.
Although Jack passively listened in on Olamoira and Beren's exchange, Urwin remained largely the eladrin's primary focus. Jack's eyes appear to almost sparkle as he looked at Urwin with admiration. "My word isn't that all lovely to hear. I think.... yes, I think your establishment is one of few that viisted in my many lifetimes that has gone truly above and beyond. Though in fairness, it's only really been in this life that I've felt as much the need to travel so much." Jack admitted with a bit of sheepish smile.
But then it faltered for a second or two. "Now not to doubt you my friend, but does Vallaki itself not possess any, uhhh.." He trails off snapping his fingers a couple of times before pointing languidly at Urwin. "Ranches? Farms? You know places to raise horses and the like for sell and rent? Or given your words before does the Winery also handles such business? If not, then things are far worse in this world than I expected." Admitted the druid of all people."But such is life here, and all the more reason set certain things in motion."
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Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Nivi continues to pick at her food as she listens to Urwin answer both her and Jack's queries, and to the conversation between Olamoira and Beren. Her mind rotates the idea of tomorrow's job, looking at it from different angles, only hoping today's successes will last the night despite the mess...
At an opportune conversational gap, she builds on Jack's point to Urwin, "Stands to reason Shorty's asking about horses, Urwin. Cause you're telling us it takes more than half a day on foot, probably same coming back. Don't see us making it back to Vallaki before dark. Keep hearing how it's certain death outside the walls at night. Comes to that, not sure I'm ready to count on Lu-Lu or Smiley even letting us back through the gates, yeah?"
Nivi is kidding about that last part... mostly... she hopes... She decides to take a chance, and her voice drops to a whisper as she broaches another topic.
"Any chance of a scout, Urwin? Used to have tower-top overwatch, back in Waterdeep, posted and ready with signals for a job or two back in Waterdeep. No towers here, but might be that we could use a different kind of overwatch tomorrow. Dark wings, dark words, as my sister would say..."
Shiv seems to take a break from his preening to nod vaguely, recalling his brief encounter with the birds in question.
(Nivi is making an oblique allusion to the ravens on the roof of the Blue Water Inn, who Shiv met, and who she suspects Urwin communicates with).
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
To Jack, Urwin chuckles half heartedly. Well, it's not like I haven't asked you for something in return. A bed, and a few small bites is the least I can do.As for horses, the onyl land near here that is good for plants is at the Winery and the surrounding areas. I don't know if that was Always the case or not though... Barovia.. the village, has better farmland. That is why most of what we eat here is game, and fish. And we sprinkle whatever we can find from nearby in terms of plants but little grows in terms of crops. So we keep almost all of our horses at the Winery, aside from deliveries.
Then, to Nivi, as one of the hunters Nivi had spoke to before makes a quick double order, paying for it, Urwin relaying it to his wife before responding. (Nivi: 18 Urwin: 9)
(sorry, i hate rolling FOR a player but i couldn't finish the post otherwise)
Nivi's mind wanders to her sister after making her questioning statement. Distracting her as Urwin gave his answer. We have no such tower. We've never had the need for one, since my family has been guarding it for centuries now... I'd say in some ways it's more safe than it is here to some degree. So we have no such scouts. And if you're worried about the ravens, don't They're simply intelligent creatures like your owl seems to be.
Jack snaps his fingers and then waggles one at Urwin. "You raise a fair point. If but the roads could be properly secured it wouldn't be too much an issue to -- oh, I dunno, have a few stables and keep them well stocked with oats. Yet with the way things are currently, actually maintaining such protection is easier said then done." Jack chuckled lightly under his breath before letting his attention either drift to his meal had it been delivered by that point, or in the loose direction of the kitchen as he patiently waited for its arrival.
"Ravens are quite clever creatures. Which is perhaps why the Raven Queen took such a liking to them." The eladrin later commented on following Urwin's response to Nivi. At that, having exhausted most of his personal interest in the moment, Jack was content to let the rest of the evening play itself, eat his dinner, and then bid everyone a lackadasically executed goodnight on his way up to retire to his room. Yet with the right words spoken -- even if not necessarily directed to him -- it could be he'd linger a little longer...
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Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Nivi sighs, realizing she is not going to get any further information about the ravens from Urwin. Or perhaps just not until the party proves themselves further. She does respond to his comparison of the ravens to her owl familiar, regarding them both being intelligent birds...
"Aye Urwin, Shiv's all right. Good in a scrap. Good on a scout. Got a link in my head so I can talk to him. Even bring him back next day if he goes down. He's a familiar, like wizards keep. Not saying I'm a wizard. But I know a couple-three tricks. My sister tried explaining to me one time about how familiars ain't even beasties - come from the Feywild like Shorty over here. Shiv just laughs when I ask him. Could be she was pulling my leg."
I was just wondering if there's anything deeper like that with you and your ravens, Urwin, Nivi thinks but does not belabor the point further. Might be one day you'll trust us enough to tell us. Could use all the help we can get in this forsaken land, by blade or wing or claw Or might be they're just ravens...
She glances at Jack with a grin. "Sister talked some noise about this Raven Queen once too. Sounded like a real piece of work, that broad. Never could figure her out. Who or when she might be watching. Shrouded in shadow and mystery, yeah? Speaking of which..."
Nivi rousts herself and trots out of the Blue Water Inn with Shiv to do a quick circuit of the structure, the elf on foot and the owl in the air, as if just stretching her legs, but looking for watchers in the night or other trouble. Already know we got enemies in this land. Made a few more tonight, I'd guess...
(IF neither sense anything): Returning indoors for a last few desultory nibbles at her food, Nivi finally buses her plate with a wink at Urwin, and if there are no further conversations to be had, takes her leave of her companions, heading to her room for her nightly stretching and calisthenics before trance.
"Big job tomorrow, sounds like," she drawls on her way up the stairs. "Probably day after too, if it takes more 'an half a day to get up there like Urwin here says. See you all bright and early. Or misty and early, more likely. Got to love this bloody place..."
Jack joins the commotion, saying nothing and standing beside Beren and Moira, near the unconscious -and slightly bloody- Wachter Matriarch. Breifly, Luvash acknowledges what Moira said, offering her a nod so she would know he had heard her. Aye, though somehow I doubt she was worshipping in true. She was a con-artist in the end, and every few months she seemed to have some new scheme or another. Dunno if she had a devil but I can see the mark on your neck from here. and it was true, the tail had struck deep, and left a welt where it had been, and likely without rest or a proper spell, it would linger for a while, though wouldn't cause any farther harm. The wind picked up just a bit, though it provided no relief from the fog or mist, as it brought just as much with its somber path as it pushed away.
Luvash looking up into the sky with a sigh. The guards remaining dutifully at attention, though clearly bored - They had once more put their weapons at slack-ready (as they would while waiting at a gate, guarding it). For once, Luvash's tone was serious, rather than lazy-roguish poor-humor. Oi, lass. You're taking this fall far too seriously. his arms crossed. Aye, you were, and Aye, I thought it'd be a funny jab. You should to. Wachter's unconscious? Thank you fer informing me. I wasn't aware you couldn't talk at someone what were napping. Oh wait... you can! It's a joke. Calm your skirts, wench. You are single handedly making me wonder if perhaps I misplaced my trust and should take back that hilt from you all so it don't get lost in a more permanent manner.
His attention was solely on her now, and his eyes burning with the faint coals of fustration. I don't care if you like me, or my methods. I don't care what name you call me. I've kept this town safe through how I've handled it. Because, unlike you... I understand Strahd.. because i'm Vistani, lass. We are his favored people, and he is our patron. But just like all Vistani don't like what Strahd has become, many do. Many in this town here don't like that I'm harsh on the dissenters who actively try to cause harm to the folk here, but many do. I could just leave this land behind, and live in Faerun, but i choose not to, to try to guide souls with some sense and a bit of heart in the direction of Strahds heart because that is the only way you can leave, and the only way he will stop bein a tyrant to the poor folk who.. like you, are trapped in the cage with the tiger with no hope.
Strahd thrives on terrorizing people. He kills entire families for fun, or to make points, just to see how people'll react. he pauses only to take a deep breath. The gamblin' lad what came with your friends there... he said, pointing at the others. Did they tell you what Strahd did that effected him so?
Strahd strode in with a boy of barely ten summers. Taunted them with the boys life. When your friend there, Beren, bravely stood up to him, he was smacked down to the earth and nearly died. Then, as the man was about to reach the boy, Strahd blew 'im up, the boy, i mean... just because he could.
His arms spread out, and he turns here and there, looking around. You saved some orphans? Returned a holy relic? Saved my daughter? All are good things, aye! And I mean that with no disrespect, and honest praise. But Strahd wants to **** with your mind, and your psyche. He wants to see what it takes to break you. He wants you to entertain him until he bores of you. He'll kill your friend for no reason than to see what expression you make. He'll turn your family into vampire spawn, to revel in the irony of watching you die to your own children's hands! at this point his voice had rose, and even the soulless, normally passive, were looking at him, though no sign of interest crossed their features, they were simply observing the loud man.
And if so little a thing as a joke, poor taste, tone deaf, or otherwise is enough to rattle you this much, then you're just going to end up falling for his schemes, and ending up little more than a blood-meal for a vampire. If you can't smile when you need to, even if its at your own expense, you'll lose heart long before you ever see his castle.
his hand rushing out to swipe the offered book, opening it to look through and skim its contents. Taking roughly a minute in this before saying in a flat tone. Aye, this is enough proof to jail 'er. Though I still doubt she has had any contact with many.. if any.. otherworldly beings.. atleast not any that weren't brought in from the outside. You know neither the divine or the hells can penetrate this plane. And if you didn't before, you do now. Any of you serve a diety or a devil, I'm sure you've noticed you can't quite commune with them as well. Maybe a whisper, little else.
Not sure why, but this is Strahds domain, and no others hold power here.
Strahd is no longer the benevolent savior he was when the Vistani saved him all those centuries ago. And thats why I'm against him myself. I want to save him from himself. And the only way to do that is to end him, as much as it saddens me. from the tales we pass down, he used to be a good man, till he lost his woman or so the tale goes.
To be honest, I wouldn't have cared if you robbed the ***** blind. Vistani steal and con those we don't respect. that brought a slight uncomfortable shuffle from the guards but they maintained decorum. I do thank you for finding out about Wachters plans and for bringing them to light. We'll put her in a cell until she talks, or we figure out. Her boys'll complain but nothin they can do.
I'll say one last thing, though I'm sure you're tired of hearin' it. This place is dangerous... the land, i mean. And Strahd is the top of the food chain. If you need a yard stick to compare by. Your group 'ere is just one of hundreds, if not thousands lured inside, and because Strahd still lives, it means they all failed.
...... Or gave up and lived here like the bard. As for saving my girl.. once again, you have my eternal gratitude. That won't change barring a few things that I doubt you'd do. But again, you four are gonna have to learn to laugh more if you want to keep your spirits high. Even if you just keep repeatin' the same joke. The moment you can't laugh no more, is the moment Strahd's guillotine will fall.
((((I re-read post #907 ten times after you said she stated her reasoning. But I don't see it. You explain it to us/me as the players/DM why you're doing it but she never says it until post #910.
(in 907)Her words don't convey it to him, and in the non verbal portion its never stated that she explains it or states it in any way to Luvash himself, or to any other NPC/Character. So in my post where he slaps her back, from his perspective, all he would see is Nivi coming up, and him being slapped by a hand he can see, and a hand he cannot, for what to him would appear to be suddenly, and for no reason)))
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Nivi begins to fidget and look bored as Luvash gets well into his multi-paragraph soliloquy. Much as her mind had wandered when her tutors droned on, while her sister had lapped up every word. She hears her sister's melodious voice in her mind. Methinks the gentleman doth protest too much.
"Sure, Lu-lu. I'm hearing you got yourself a silver tongue and a slick sense of humor that ain't tone deaf at all. And here I thought a joke had to be funny to get some laughs from anyone not on your dime. But yeah, no chuckles from us - must be cause the darklord's mists ate our sense of humor, not any lack on your part, no. You're a real stand-up guy too, to hear you tell it for the last five minutes. Got to remember that next time you grope me."
Having clearly formed her opinion of Luvash, Nivi is ready to move on. "You got the devil-book. You know Wachter's the one who impersonated me to get Bubbles to chuck your daughter into the lake. All this to overthrow you, yeah? Oh, don't think I mentioned she's got dead old Lord Wachter up in the master bed, dressed to the nines and coins on his eyes. Not rotting cause of some enchantment. Good times. So... we done here?"
Having counted off the main points, she turns back to her companions one eyebrow raised as if to ask, anything else for Mr. stand-up guy Lu-lu here?
Inge(Barbarian2): Krayveneer's After the Fall | Seri(Nature Cleric1/Divine Soul Sorcerer1): Uhtred's Windward Isles
Dyson/Eleo(Twilight Cleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(Shepherd Druid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Nivi(Arcane Trickster Rogue4): Raiketsu's CoS
Joren(Echo Knight Fighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Toa(Ancestral Guardian Barbarian6/Echo Knight Fighter4): MrWhisker's Dark Lord's Return
Despite himself, Jack faintly nodded at some points of Luvash, but at others... there were definitely moments of either frowning at one point, and a clearly forced attempt at keeping his expression neutral at others. But it's only when he finally and fully seemed to accept the book as proof enough that the eladrin's shoulders finally relax as the tension left them. Still, any other semblance of relief shown in that moment is quick to fade in the wake of Nivi's frank response. Which he listened to respectfully, and even cracked a smile at what at least felt like sarcasm at some points. Although the moment anyone pays too much attention to it he'd try to hide it behind a sudden need to massage his jaw or look off into the dark at something.
"... Eheh... yes, well, uhm... It is getting rather late, and I dare to imagine you'll have your work cut out preparing things for sorting out Lady Wachter here; especially if she yet happens to have sharp eared supporters out and about... like that bard, you mentioned?" Jack said, initially sounding sheepish before feigning a thoughtful look while rubbing his chin. "A charming fellow as I recall and not likely to get directly involved in matters. But as they say back faerun, often a few choice words in the right places can lead to most unexpected results. But, what do I know?" Jack feigns a smile as he shrugged, then turned to regard his party. "Either way, we have to get up quite bright and early ourselves, don't we? Promises to keep and shinies to find as we travelers are want to do, no?"
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)
Olamoira listens to Luvash's spiel with interest, especially the parts about Strahd. There is almost a familiarity in her expression, the way she listens to Luvash's horror stories. "There is nothing that Strahd can show me that I have not seen already... or done. False accusations? Framings? Murder? Treachery? Deceit? Twisting a victim's mind until they break? All I have done. All I have seen the emptiness of. I am not afraid of Strahd. And perhaps one day he will achieve the grace of the Light as I have, even though I must always walk in Twilight. Ah! Strahd is the sort who weaves webs... like my people do... but is chained to them himself far more tightly than are any of his victims. If they find a way to escape, they can leave the web forever. Not so the one who spins it... yes, I think we are in quite an advantageous position with regards to Strahd." Ola seems unperturbed by the argument between Nivi and Luvash, staring off into some higher eternal realm as she often does. "He has not learned how to transcend his own suffering, and so he spirals further and further down... who fears him murdering children before our eyes? I don't. I have done worse, myself."
Beren listens in silence, feeling he already made his opinion clear by his quickness to drop the subject. He doesn't particularly like Luvash and has said as much before, what little respect he had for the man has since dwindled both because of the poorly timed joke and his response to Nivi. On one hand he wasn't thrilled about the elf dragging out the encounter, wishing she'd just let the prank go so they could just move on. On the other hand he realizes that he is accustomed to ignoring or accepting things he doesn't appreciate whereas she is not. In another life, he might have given the same reaction as she, especially considering her words. So, he is content to let Nivi handle it how she sees fit.
Laughter isn't something Beren was very familiar with personally--a rather sad reality but the truth. Yet all of Luvash's talk about learning to laugh more lest they become easy prey for the vampire fell flat to him. It isn't like he ever really had high spirits, so he doubts whatever happens in the future will shake his resolve. Did he think this was really something to get worked up about? Not really. Did it irritate him? Yes, yes it did. His anger remains clear though it has died down to burning annoyance at this point. He never really was given an option to state his opinion in the past, and so that translates to now as he keeps his mouth shut.
It is obvious though that this exchange bothered Nivi greatly, and that in turn bothers him as well. From his perspective, Luvash is just another man who reeks of evil. Just like the rest of the people in this town. That fact speaks for itself, so even if the Vistani thinks he's in the right he clearly has other intentions or motives as well--at least in Beren's mind. Otherwise why would his aura translate to wickedness to the paladin's senses? Perhaps there is more to Luvash than meets the eye, and Beren cannot deny what the man said about the Vistani's ability to leave. So he chose to stay and stand against Strahd? Good for him. Perhaps there is some undetectable goodness in his heart somewhere. But regardless, actions speak louder than words, and right now Beren just witnessed him slap his comrade and then proceed to spew excuses for his actions.
He glances at Olamoira as she speaks of 'having done worse' grimacing at the mention of what he'd witnessed the vampire do prior to meeting the two women. Part of him wonders if her words are as true as they sound, considering she's always seemed to view and present herself. Yet he also knows a little about the drow, though not enough to really draw conclusions. Still, what does it matter to him? The mask hides a frown as he realizes that he'd grabbed the broken hilt at some point during his thoughts. Worthy? Him? Perhaps Luvash isn't the only one with a poor sense of humor.
With a sigh, Beren lifts Wachter by one arm and drags her over to the nearest guard. "Lock her up with some magics in place. I don't know the extent of her abilities but she had enough power to impersonate Nivi so I wouldn't doubt that she could break out of a cell. At the very least, keep her gagged and bound." He drops her, clearly expecting the guard to take care of that issue moving forward. Then he turns to Luvash and Nivi, the light glowing steadily as if to reinforce Nivi's question to Luvash. Are we done here? Beren clearly is.
"I assume your men will handle this from here, so unless there is something else you need from us I personally would like to tend to my wounds." Tend to his wounds, and get away from the Church before a third elven woman decides to come outside and see what the talk is about.
With a dismissive hand wave, Luvash bats away Nivi's retorts with the simplest of replies. You'll learn one way or another lass, no matter what you think of me. Motioning for the retinue whom was with him to take care of the Wachter issue. They did as ordered aside from two of them who stayed by his side. As the guards picked Wachter up from the gorund -not too gently for Wachter- He then responded to Moira, crossing his arms -in a comfortable way, not defiant- Maybe not you. I've heard plenty of tales of the Drow. Most of them bad. Though I've heard o' Drizzit or however you say his name. As long as you can all keep yer composure, you atleast won't die easily. As for what exactly made him spiral.. and I know you didn't ask... but no clue what was the true trigger, or if it was a set of things. Those are the finer details that no one really knows cept Strahd himself.
One of the guards, when Beren mentions to keep an eye out, they shrug in a manner before simply saying it We will try.. but we don't have any anti-magic. All we'll have are the old peepers. So .. I say we just keep an eye on her day and night, and make sure everyone knows that 'no, I am not in the cell asking you to let me out' and the like. But we'll try. We just don't have any way that isn't... mundane. the guard admits, hoping that would be good enough for the man.
Luvash finally satisfied that Wachter was under arrest in true, says Aye. Nothign else. Wouldn't have been here if I hadn't been called if I'm being honest. Be about your business. He says matter of factly. Waiting till Wachter was being carried proper before heading back up the way he originally came.
The group makes their way back to the Blue Water Inn, just as the evening is settling in. Many people are here... or atleast many by this towns standards. The two hunters who had been here before were not here this night. Though Urwin, his wife, as well as Bluto, who was nursing on some heavily watered down ale from a less than clean mug, sat alone in the corner of the room, with the leavings of a single cooked chicken leg. Though true to his charge, Arugal was watching him, bored out of his mind by the looks of it, but he was doing his job... away from the sop of a man. His eye met the group as they came in with the speed of a hawk, and left just as swiftly. Acknowledging you were all here but not in a mood to talk. He too had an ale and a meal, though his was atleast the average fare of the inn.
Urwin smiled when he saw you all enter, this time, no birds had been present on the way in - atleast not that anyone noticed - Ah! Welcome back. I hope your day wasn't overly eventful. Sit, sit. I'll have my wife make you all a complimentary.. though small meal. If you want more you'll have to pay... I want to be generous but.. well I'm working on a copper budget as it is.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Though wounded and tired, Nivi is all business, chatting up Urwin and his wife while nibbling on her meager dinner. Using her dagger as a utensil.
Call me crazy, but those ravens act like his eyes and ears. Could be Urwin knows more than he lets on but doesn't trust us yet. Don't blame him, really...
"Might not look like it, Urwin," Nivi grins as she realizes she has not thought of a nickname for the innkeeper. Somehow she thinks Mr. Raven-Man might be too on-the-nose... "... but we're still on the job like a longshoreman on his lager. Wizard of Wines. Tomorrow, yeah? Thing came up with the church and Father Lucian. That's what was up couple-three hours back when we took out Karl. Hoping no blowback from that - you let us know if there is."
Hope we can trust Lu-Lu to at least keep the Wachters in check for now...
She glances briefly at Arugal and Bluto with cool reserve, wondering whether it would be wise to bring those two the next day... then looks back at Urwin.
"Gotta ask though." Nivi lowers her voice so only Urwin and her companions can hear. "These wine shipments. How do they even get through, normally? Everyone and their brother keeps jawing about how dangerous this place is. Truth is, no need to warn me, coz I've believed it from the start. So really, no surprise if it's undead or wolves or hags or dark druids or barbarians or whatever ambushing the shipments and taking out the couriers, yeah? All the baddies those hunters Szoldar and Yevgeni talk about in their cups. Thinking any trade down the roads here's always a risky proposition."
She pauses, pointing with her dagger and the bit of food on it for emphasis. "So what's different now?"
Unfortunately, Nivi's normally sharp read on people isn't the best with Mr. Raven-Man, Urwin. Insight: 7 (Passive: 15)
Inge(Barbarian2): Krayveneer's After the Fall | Seri(Nature Cleric1/Divine Soul Sorcerer1): Uhtred's Windward Isles
Dyson/Eleo(Twilight Cleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(Shepherd Druid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Nivi(Arcane Trickster Rogue4): Raiketsu's CoS
Joren(Echo Knight Fighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Toa(Ancestral Guardian Barbarian6/Echo Knight Fighter4): MrWhisker's Dark Lord's Return
Urwin shrugs with uncertainty. Thing is, I don't know. I know a lot.. beign an innkeeper.. what few adventurers pass through always eventually come here. But my father runs the winery itself, and he can be a bit... well. So it's a bit more difficult for me to learn what exactly is going on. He has always kept the winery functioning, with me selling it. but the relationship is strained, and I have not heard anything in the time frame I've told you. And its unlike him not to maintain atleast base contact.. for business atleast. he says as he moves some objects behind the counter around, and the sounds of stacking plates can just barely be heard.
So I wish I could answer that question, unfortunately, I cannot. Normally though, my father, a rather accomplished man himself I hate to admit, and others would guard the wagons between here and there. And we keep the winery safe as well in a similar fashion, which is why I don't understand why the shipments haven't came in. It has been generation after generation.. the winery predates the ... he rolls his hand as if it would help stir the thought, the proper word or phrase to come up, and after several seconds an 'ah' Condition of this land... as it were. Back when Barovia was part of Faerun. Before it became an isolated land. And just in case you missed it... I'm saying that my father and some other strong folk would guard the shipments.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
"You'd be surprise how effective mundane solutions can be, Luvash. And as I doubt she was so skilled practioner as to have mastered casting at least simple spells with her toes -- and yes, that is a thing! Though that takes decades of dedicated practice, so I wouldn't worry too much about that. And if you do need her to speak, make sure's blinded and still bound as most charms require seeing your intended... prey." Jack flashes a broad smile. "Buuut in any event, we bid you adieu, Burgomaster, and I hope you and yours have a more pleasant day." With that and a final bow given, Jack more than readily followed after the others to their next destination...
"The hospitality is appreciated as always, Urwin." Is Jack's immediate response as he took up the innkeeper's offer. At first content to patiently wait on the meal and drink to arrive, he perked up a bit at Nivi's line of questioning, and looked to Urwin all the more interested in the answer. Near as he could tell he wasn't Vistani, be it by blood or association, though the idle thought alone led to him peering over steepled fingers at the man, hands being propped up with elbows at rest on the bar.
"Starting to see even more so why you are so concerned. Fortunately, barring an revelatory incident come the morning, I don't see us NOT heading out then and there. Though, how long did you say it would take to get up there by the way? At least by foot, though I suppose we do have the option of the wagon should we get another horse for that I suppose."
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 nods to Jack... blindfolding Wachter was not something he'd thought of, but then again he wasn't all that well versed in casting spells either. To the guards he says, "Mundane should be good enough so long as you are vigilant. Bind her, blindfold her, and keep her gagged while you can." Some spells require spoken word, or so he's been told.
____________________________________
Reaching the inn, Beren nods to Argual before the man scampers off. He can't blame him for wanting to get away as quickly as possible, Beren likely would have reacted the same had he been forced to babysit Bluto for as long as Argual had.
"Thank you," he says wearily to Urwin, unsure of how else to respond to the innkeeper's offer of food. Whatever Urwin is willing to provide will be enough, right now Beren just wants to get some sort of nourishment and then head to his room to recuperate. He might have gotten through that fight with minimal injuries, but all this talking and such has left him more drained then he'd care to admit.
He listens silently as Nivi questions and Urwin answers about the wine shipments, but doesn't have anything to ask or add to either as of right now. Instead he finds a seat and waits for the others to sort out what tomorrow will look like. It doesn't take long for him to become lost in thought, absently tapping the broken hilt with one finger before realizing what he was doing. Why does this sword bother him so? Tomorrow he'll leave it tucked away in his pack, or strap it to his back instead, somewhere out of reach and out of mind.
Olamoira smiles and accepts Urwin's offer of a small meal. "Our day has been anything but uneventful," she says, "but it has borne much fruit, and so I am at peace." She listens as Nivi discusses the particulars of and risks of trade and shipments with Urwin, but she isn't paying attention. Her tired mind is still on the events of the day, of the escapade with Karl where she sat in the alley to wait because she would not participate in the deceptive ploy, and how glad she had been to see Beren and storm Lady Wachter's manor with him as a distraction while Nivi and Jack furiously searched the manor for the bones. Just recalling how everything had happened--despite the drama and disaster of the bloodthirsty demon worshippers and the inadvertant setting of the house on fire--made her smile. They had succeeded. The favor of Saint Andral was with them, and they had returned his relics to their proper resting place. And in fact the Saint had left them a present in return... Ola finds her eyes drawn to the broken hilt at Beren's waist that the knight is restlessly tapping. She remembers Nivi telling her about how the gem that was with the bones had fit precisely in the hilt. "Beren," she says, suddenly becoming curious, "what does that gem do for your sword, exactly?"
Beren hesitates... his sword? It feels wrong to call it that... to him it's just the sword. He looks down at the hilt, then back to Olamoira, the light flickering as he says uncertainly "I... don't know." He removes the sword from his belt and sets it on the table between them so that she can see it. He'd intended to let everyone inspect it before they decided who would wield it... and while he'd expected that it would suit him or Olamoira best, he really hadn't expected it to stay with him. "It seems to have given it sentience... or returned sentience to it?" He leans back in his chair, crossing his arms and staring at the hilt. "It spoke in my mind, wanting us to reforge it." Again, he leaves out the sunlight part, feeling like this is all the information he need share at the moment. The rest shouldn't be important until they decide to pursue mending the blade.
Ola curiously touches the hilt with one finger, tracing the gem. Her eyes shimmer and she murmurs a magical word as her tracing takes on the somatic component for Detect Magic. "It spoke to you?" she says to Beren. "Do you suppose the sword is a force for good, or for evil? Or neither?"
“I do not think it is evil,” Beren replies. It seems that the blade is a force of good, but he won’t say what he isn’t sure of.
Urwin, by the time Jack had asked his question, was already turned around, seeming to be taking stock counts wordlessly, though he spoke as he did so. From Vallaki, depending on your speed... and if you follow the road... a little more than half a day at a walking pace. It is West of here, past the first, second, and third forks in the road. The fourth path that leads south-west, is the one you want.. if you want a simple way of considering it. It will eventually turn from a properly worn road to a more wild one not long after, but a path nonetheless. As for horses, assuming everything is good enough, should be on that side of the target.. at the Winery. And you are welcome Beren. it's not much, but any food is good food, my mother always said! showing that Urwin was likely a mothers man.
And we have made your rooms fresh as can be, even added a few blankets to make it softer, at no cost. Considering you are doing something for us. We will also prepare you some travel food that can be kept for several hours before spoiling. It won't be anything fancy but it will keep your belly full enough for that day atleast, and taste a level above rations atleast if our salt has anything to say about it.
Moira casts her spell subtly. And as before, the hilt itself beams with holy energy, leaning towards a green color now - Conjuration. However, it is not noticeably more or less brilliant than before. She can just barely sense a mind, or a psuedo mind but it is weak, fragile, barely there. Like a battery left too long without purpose, clinging to the last vestiges of energy within it.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Although Jack passively listened in on Olamoira and Beren's exchange, Urwin remained largely the eladrin's primary focus. Jack's eyes appear to almost sparkle as he looked at Urwin with admiration. "My word isn't that all lovely to hear. I think.... yes, I think your establishment is one of few that viisted in my many lifetimes that has gone truly above and beyond. Though in fairness, it's only really been in this life that I've felt as much the need to travel so much." Jack admitted with a bit of sheepish smile.
But then it faltered for a second or two. "Now not to doubt you my friend, but does Vallaki itself not possess any, uhhh.." He trails off snapping his fingers a couple of times before pointing languidly at Urwin. "Ranches? Farms? You know places to raise horses and the like for sell and rent? Or given your words before does the Winery also handles such business? If not, then things are far worse in this world than I expected." Admitted the druid of all people."But such is life here, and all the more reason set certain things in motion."
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)
Nivi continues to pick at her food as she listens to Urwin answer both her and Jack's queries, and to the conversation between Olamoira and Beren. Her mind rotates the idea of tomorrow's job, looking at it from different angles, only hoping today's successes will last the night despite the mess...
At an opportune conversational gap, she builds on Jack's point to Urwin, "Stands to reason Shorty's asking about horses, Urwin. Cause you're telling us it takes more than half a day on foot, probably same coming back. Don't see us making it back to Vallaki before dark. Keep hearing how it's certain death outside the walls at night. Comes to that, not sure I'm ready to count on Lu-Lu or Smiley even letting us back through the gates, yeah?"
Nivi is kidding about that last part... mostly... she hopes... She decides to take a chance, and her voice drops to a whisper as she broaches another topic.
"Any chance of a scout, Urwin? Used to have tower-top overwatch, back in Waterdeep, posted and ready with signals for a job or two back in Waterdeep. No towers here, but might be that we could use a different kind of overwatch tomorrow. Dark wings, dark words, as my sister would say..."
Shiv seems to take a break from his preening to nod vaguely, recalling his brief encounter with the birds in question.
(Nivi is making an oblique allusion to the ravens on the roof of the Blue Water Inn, who Shiv met, and who she suspects Urwin communicates with).
Inge(Barbarian2): Krayveneer's After the Fall | Seri(Nature Cleric1/Divine Soul Sorcerer1): Uhtred's Windward Isles
Dyson/Eleo(Twilight Cleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(Shepherd Druid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Nivi(Arcane Trickster Rogue4): Raiketsu's CoS
Joren(Echo Knight Fighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Toa(Ancestral Guardian Barbarian6/Echo Knight Fighter4): MrWhisker's Dark Lord's Return
To Jack, Urwin chuckles half heartedly. Well, it's not like I haven't asked you for something in return. A bed, and a few small bites is the least I can do. As for horses, the onyl land near here that is good for plants is at the Winery and the surrounding areas. I don't know if that was Always the case or not though... Barovia.. the village, has better farmland. That is why most of what we eat here is game, and fish. And we sprinkle whatever we can find from nearby in terms of plants but little grows in terms of crops. So we keep almost all of our horses at the Winery, aside from deliveries.
Then, to Nivi, as one of the hunters Nivi had spoke to before makes a quick double order, paying for it, Urwin relaying it to his wife before responding. (Nivi: 18 Urwin: 9)
(sorry, i hate rolling FOR a player but i couldn't finish the post otherwise)
Nivi's mind wanders to her sister after making her questioning statement. Distracting her as Urwin gave his answer. We have no such tower. We've never had the need for one, since my family has been guarding it for centuries now... I'd say in some ways it's more safe than it is here to some degree. So we have no such scouts. And if you're worried about the ravens, don't They're simply intelligent creatures like your owl seems to be.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Jack snaps his fingers and then waggles one at Urwin. "You raise a fair point. If but the roads could be properly secured it wouldn't be too much an issue to -- oh, I dunno, have a few stables and keep them well stocked with oats. Yet with the way things are currently, actually maintaining such protection is easier said then done." Jack chuckled lightly under his breath before letting his attention either drift to his meal had it been delivered by that point, or in the loose direction of the kitchen as he patiently waited for its arrival.
"Ravens are quite clever creatures. Which is perhaps why the Raven Queen took such a liking to them." The eladrin later commented on following Urwin's response to Nivi. At that, having exhausted most of his personal interest in the moment, Jack was content to let the rest of the evening play itself, eat his dinner, and then bid everyone a lackadasically executed goodnight on his way up to retire to his room. Yet with the right words spoken -- even if not necessarily directed to him -- it could be he'd linger a little longer...
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)
Nivi sighs, realizing she is not going to get any further information about the ravens from Urwin. Or perhaps just not until the party proves themselves further. She does respond to his comparison of the ravens to her owl familiar, regarding them both being intelligent birds...
"Aye Urwin, Shiv's all right. Good in a scrap. Good on a scout. Got a link in my head so I can talk to him. Even bring him back next day if he goes down. He's a familiar, like wizards keep. Not saying I'm a wizard. But I know a couple-three tricks. My sister tried explaining to me one time about how familiars ain't even beasties - come from the Feywild like Shorty over here. Shiv just laughs when I ask him. Could be she was pulling my leg."
I was just wondering if there's anything deeper like that with you and your ravens, Urwin, Nivi thinks but does not belabor the point further. Might be one day you'll trust us enough to tell us. Could use all the help we can get in this forsaken land, by blade or wing or claw Or might be they're just ravens...
She glances at Jack with a grin. "Sister talked some noise about this Raven Queen once too. Sounded like a real piece of work, that broad. Never could figure her out. Who or when she might be watching. Shrouded in shadow and mystery, yeah? Speaking of which..."
Nivi rousts herself and trots out of the Blue Water Inn with Shiv to do a quick circuit of the structure, the elf on foot and the owl in the air, as if just stretching her legs, but looking for watchers in the night or other trouble. Already know we got enemies in this land. Made a few more tonight, I'd guess...
Nivi's Perception: 23
Shiv's Perception with Keen Hearing and Sight: 14
(IF neither sense anything): Returning indoors for a last few desultory nibbles at her food, Nivi finally buses her plate with a wink at Urwin, and if there are no further conversations to be had, takes her leave of her companions, heading to her room for her nightly stretching and calisthenics before trance.
"Big job tomorrow, sounds like," she drawls on her way up the stairs. "Probably day after too, if it takes more 'an half a day to get up there like Urwin here says. See you all bright and early. Or misty and early, more likely. Got to love this bloody place..."
Inge(Barbarian2): Krayveneer's After the Fall | Seri(Nature Cleric1/Divine Soul Sorcerer1): Uhtred's Windward Isles
Dyson/Eleo(Twilight Cleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(Shepherd Druid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Nivi(Arcane Trickster Rogue4): Raiketsu's CoS
Joren(Echo Knight Fighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Toa(Ancestral Guardian Barbarian6/Echo Knight Fighter4): MrWhisker's Dark Lord's Return