Mizu blinks as Leeta runs off after the girl she hadn't even seen... well that settles it then. He can't just let her run off by herself when she doesn't know who she is looking for. He gives a brief glance back at the others before taking off after his friend and the dirty girl. As he enters the alley, he attempts to parkour up to the roof by jumping from wall to wall (if it is narrow enough) thinking that traveling by rooftop will be faster and lend him a better vantage point to find both Leeta and the stranger.
Butttt.... it seems his time on the ship did accustom him to some sort of motion that he wasn't aware of, and he severely miscalculated the width of the walls, resulting in him basically just vaulting off one side and slamming into the other wall. He grimaces, but doesn't let himself look back to see if anyone was watching. The last thing he needs is distractions, and if they all start thinking of him as just some silly kid that's not going to help anything. He lets out a long breath, then does his best to content himself with just running after Leeta--not that he can really catch up to her by now...
As Leeta dashed towards the narrow alley that Rixi points out, Mizu decides it's a good time to practice his parkour only to find that the alley is a little TOO narrow to run through. He has an awkward moment of being wedged between the two buildings even though he is plenty small enough to fit between them.
After Mizu gets himself unstuck, both of you can clearly see a wooden fence at the back which attaches the two buildings, but no sign of the red-haired girl. However, if you venture forward, as soon as you hit the fence you locate an obvious hole entering the building on the right. Kneeling down, you can see into the building and see that there is another hole of the same side exiting out the back of the building. Luckily, you are both the size of small children and could squeeze your way through the hole.
(You both can roll perception and or survival) (Anyone who followed would be able to see the same thing, but the rest of you would be to big to fit through that hole)
As Rowarin looks around he does see a couple familiar faces. Mostly those of the people standing at the booths selling food and the sorts. However, one face stands out among the crowd. A human who you recognize as one of your childhood friends, Nathanial. The man hands some coin to one of the shop owners in return for some bread and apples and turns to walk away. He seems sad, and doesn't look like he has much energy.
(For those of you who head strait for the Inn)
Meanwhile, the rest of the party continues a little deeper into town. The Stonedog inn is a rather large two story building, seems they've added on since the town's been growing. At the base of the stairs leading to the door sits a Stone statue of a dog holding a sign in it's mouth. "Welcome to StoneDog Inn." Overall, the place seems quite friendly.
Entering the building, the party is met with the sound of laughter. Looking around, the source is easy to pick out. Sitting at a table almost in the center of the room, a Human man, a Dwarven man, and a Bronze Dragonborn woman refill what is likely not just their second glass of ale. The Human and the Dwarf look to be town residents, farmers or merchants, the dragonborn however wears adventuring attire, studded leather and a rapier at her hip.
Slamming her mug on the table she exclaims, "I do be promisin ye this laddies, I'll put n end to whatever done be takin your townfolk! Then I'll be usin it's head as a trophy!"
The Human laughs loudly, "HAHAH! But what if Jone here is the Killer! Would you really be wantin his head on yer wall?" He juts his thumb at the dwarf.
"Wahhh? You've had to much to drink Frank, you know I ain't responsible!" The dwarf retorts.
As that odd group continues laughing and talking amongst themselves, a small halfling rushes back and forth between the few customers in the building. The innkeep, Bill Trent stands idly behind the counter polishing a mug that doesn't look dirty. He has a distant look in his eyes, and doesn't notice the party enter.
(All of you who went to Stonedog with a passive perception of 11 would notice)
There is a figure sitting in the darkest corner of the inn. He is wearing a dark trench coat with a broad-brimmed hat low over his eyes, but it does not cover all of his charcoal grey skin or the locks of silver-white hair falling just past his pointed ears. A cup sits on the table in front of him, but he has no food. He seems to be watching the group of laughing people, but you get the feeling he's watching you as well.
Leeta runs up to the hole, but hears the loud slam behind her, and that stops her from continuing. Could that have been Mizu? She waits a little for whoever caused the noise to catch up, while she takes a look at the hole.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
It takes a few moments for Mizu to catch up with Leeta--rubbing his bruised shoulder when he thinks no one is looking.
He eyes the hole,
Perception: 17 Survival: 21
Then he looks to Leeta, "This looks... suspicious." He eyes the hole again, then shrugs, and holds up one arm as he casts Find Familiar. A snow hawk materializes on his arm. Leeta would recognize the creature as Soma, Mizu's familiar. "So we can keep in contact with the others," he says. Perhaps a raven would have been a better choice, but the snow hawk was Soma's default form, so he hadn't considered that a creature with voice mimicking abilities might be more useful. Oh well. He instructs Soma to stay with the rest of their companions, and she flies off towards them--that way Mizu and Leeta don't have trouble meeting up with them again. Then he readies himself to enter the hole.
(I don't want to edit my last post for fear of 'manipulating' the dice rolls, but I wanted to add that Soma will join up with the rest of the party, likely choosing one of the other 'water folk' to perch on :) )
- That girl must be really scared... I hope we can talk to her and make her see we only want to help!
When Soma appears, Leeta caresses his little head fondly, a familiarity given by so many years of the three of them being together and doing all sort of stuff at their Order's grounds.
- Good idea. Okaaaaay, in we go! - she says, following the genasi inside the hole.
Scanning the crowd, Rowarin spots on old friend, Nathaniel.
"Nathaniel, wait!" Rowarin shouts from across the street, as he makes his way over to where Nathaniel is.
"Nathaniel my old friend, how are you?"Rowarin notices the look of sadness upon his old friends' face. "Are you alright? Listen, if you got some time I'd like to have a catch-up. Especially to find out what is going on here. Some of my companions are heading over to the inn, would you care to join us?"
Rowarin points towards the StoneDog, where they spot some of his companions heading into.
Mina watches the small ones of their group chase after the dirty girl and shrugs. "We'll be at the Inn!" she calls after them, not really wanting to go on a wild goose chase at the moment as some ale is sounding mighty fine.
Heading towards the large building she notices that Rowarin spots someone he knows. Watching him head off, she continues with the rest to the StoneDog Inn and heads inside. Startled by the laughter after the quietness of the town, she finds herself staring at the three loud drinkers at one of the tables.
Once she stops staring, she looks around, noticing the one in the trenchcoat in the corner, but decides to leave them to their faculties and heads up to the bar. Seeing that the man behind the counter is quite distracted, she coughs loudly to get his attention, "Hello there, might I get something to drink?"
Rixi felt conflicted at first; One hand there's a halfling and a water genasi, his worst nightmare, trying to pursue what he just saw. They're both fast, he isn't, so he's unsure if trying to follow secretly behind would be the best maneuverer. On the other hand though... the Sea Elf, Triton and the perfectly 'normal' Wizard are at a slow pace to the inn. But... Two 'sworn enemies...' not a good sign either. Maybe he might fare worse if he's around them... or...
Faced with either losing his strange new teammates or turning insane, he slowly unhooks his polearm from his back before firmly gripping it on his left hand, which is currently wreathed in burning hot flames. "Shikata ga nai 仕方がない..." (Translation: I guess It can't be helped) he mutters as he decides to follow Mizu and Leeta rather than risk himself turning into an actual threat in the early stage. Maybe whoever was watching us might be able to provide some info for him.
The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Campaign Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation) DM - The Road to Redemption (Homebrew, WIP)
Noticing that Rixian has followed her and Mizu, Leeta waits for the fire genasi to come a little closer and waves at him. She even jumps a little, hoping this can help him see her, for he doesn't seem to have not notice her... Not an weird thing at all, taking into account she's a tad bit small.
Kulogall strides up to the bar and puts his hand on the counter. “Parched. I am. Yes. Quite thirsty. Do you have any water?” He snaps his fingers, getting the innkeep’s attention. “My manners. I apologize. My name is Kulogall and this is my good friend Mina. What do you have? Besides water I mean.” He turns at the sounds and the discussion at the table, jerking his webbed thumb back towards it, “Do you know what they’re talking about? What’s going on?” His eyes dart around the room and he sees the figure in the trench coat, he lets his eyes not linger but continue to move around the room like he is looking for someone..
Mizu turns as Rixian approaches. Soma is just lifting off, when she too takes note of the fire genasi. The white hawk circles Rixian's head for a moment before landing on his shoulder and cocking her head--eyeing him. She seems to be quite comfortable there, as if his fiery nature is something familiar to her. Mizu gives the bird a flat look before mentally telling her, Go find the rest of the group. I guess he's with us. He is, admittedly, a little confused at why Rixian was there--he'd been getting the feeling for a while that the other genasi isn't super fond of him. In response, Soma ruffles her feathers as if stating that this is the only other party member she can think of.
"That's not Master, Soma." Mizu says in an undertone, then, realizing he spoke aloud he turns his head away from Rixian--not wanting to make eye contact--before continuing mentally. Go find the rest of the group. You might be comfortable there, but Rixian might not appreciate becoming your new perch.
Soma lets out an irritated sound--as well as something that could have been a huff--and then flies back down the alley and towards the inn.
Finally, Mizu turns his attention to Rixian--briefly glancing at Leeta, who is trying to get the fire genasi's attention. After a moment he gestures towards the hole and says in his quiet voice, "The girl probably went through here. ...Not sure if you can follow us though." He turns to Leeta, as he expects that he and she will be following the girl regardless as to whether or not the fire genasi can fit through the small opening.
Rixi approaches the hole and notes how small it looks. He then notices the white eagle briefly circling around him before it perches on his shoulder. In retrospective, he's more than ok with animals, especially rare birds like these, coming into friendly contact with him, especially since he's always surrounded by animals back in the Sword Coast. He gives off an unnoticeable grin; If his crush Daisy was there she would be screaming with jealousy. But, since its master must be that Water Genasi, he couldn't help but frown and arch his aching head down at this coincidence. Oh well... And as he looks back up, he easily notices Leeta waving towards him on the otherside. Sigh, yeah, yeah I get it. I'm coming. He thinks as the edges of his silky black hair fizzle with sparks upon coming into contact with his flame-wreathed jacket. But... it doesn't seem like he can fit through either, despite his slim height, not mention that his glaive might be in the way. "...I don't know if I can, but If not, I won't force it." He does his best to squeeze in whilst keeping his glaive from being lodged in between the gap if he does so.
"That's not Master, Soma." Mizu says in an undertone, then, realizing he spoke aloud he turns his head away from Rixian--not wanting to make eye contact--before continuing mentally. Go find the rest of the group. You might be comfortable there, but Rixian might not appreciate becoming your new perch.
Rixian immediately winces as he flashbacks to what Mizu unconsciously said in front of his face. Huh? The little hawk think I'm his master? No that's ridiculous! There's no way I'll ever be fit to become one especially towards him! Argh... What is he even talking about?! He thinks with wave of uneasiness, completely oblivious of the fact that the master Mizu was referring to was in fact, the same race as he is.
The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Campaign Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation) DM - The Road to Redemption (Homebrew, WIP)
Leeta and Mizu manage to squeeze themselves through the tiny hole and into the dining room of the house. While this building doesn't appear to have been in bad shape (apart from the child-sized hole) it's clear that it hasn't been occupied for a while. By the looks of the bare shelves and cabinets, whoever lived here packed up all that they could carry. A thin layer of dust covers the dining table, and the six chairs surrounding it. A withered rose lays on the seat of the chair just left of the table's head, perhaps this family lost a child and fled for fear of losing the rest. There's a staircase on the far end of the room, along with an open wall which likely leads to the living room. Both of you notice a distinct footprint clearly leading through the other hole exiting the house, however you also note that a lot of the dust on the floor has been disturbed leaving a faint trail towards the stairs, and that there's a lot of dust falling from the ceiling...
Rixi on the other hand, is left outside in the narrow alley he's just a little to big to fit through the child-sized hole. (Sorry if this wasn't clear, Leeta is small, and I'm considering Mizu child-sized based on Aroc's physical description of him...which now that I think about it may have been in the PMs...) Unfortunately for him, Soma may have proven to be a distraction as he doesn't notice anything significant.
Nathaniel looks confused for a moment when a stranger calls his name. However when Rowarin gets a bit closer, recognition slowly dawns on the man. "Rowarin? That's you isn't it?" His hands start shaking and he suddenly drop his basket and grabs the aasimar's shoulders. "You went to become a soldier didn't you? Did you come to save the missing?" You see tears forming in his eyes, "Please say you are. They...it...she's gone. We just had our wedding--" He chokes, trying to hold back a sob but failing. His grip on your shoulders grows weak and he bows his head letting his tears fall to the ground. Realization dawns on you. You remember the girl Rowarin always liked, and it had been pretty obvious that she liked him as well. Her name was Fraya. She was a half elf.
The innkeep gives a start when two sea-folk suddenly appear before him asking for drinks. "Of course."He says, putting down the mug he had been holding then pulling another from under the counter. Then he pauses for a moment and looks at Kulogall. "That lot?" He nods to the rowdy group in the middle, "That dragonborn's new to town, she's started investigating the disappearances. As you can see, she hasn't gotten far." He pauses for a moment. "Uh, sorry Did you want water or something else?" The man is clearly distracted, though it looks it may be from lack of sleep.
"Nope. I can't."Rixi grunts as he struggles to fit even his foot inside the hole before he stands back up. "I'll stay outside. Go ahead and inform me what you saw when you're back."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Campaign Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation) DM - The Road to Redemption (Homebrew, WIP)
Mizu takes in the dusty scene around him, "Hmmm..." He tilts his head, eyeing the footprints and the falling dust above them. "The girl probably went out, so I don't really think we'll be able to find her again." Turning his attention to the staircase, he takes a step towards them before looking back through the hole, where Rixian is waiting on the other side. He blinks, considering for a moment, then leans over, just enough to where Rixian can see his face through the small hole as he says, "It's mostly just dust... but there might be something upstairs. ...If you can find a way around, you might be able to get in through a door?" He didn't see a front door leading into this room, but he's assuming that... well this is a house so there has to be a front door somewhere. So if the fire genasi really wants a way in he doesn't really have to just sit out there and wait... does he?
Standing up, he begins making his way up the staircase.
Rowarin catches up with Nathaniel, who upon recognition, seems to falter and become both visibly upset and relieved. When he drops the basket and grabs Rowarin by the shoulders, it startles Rowarin a little as he wasn't prepared for such a greeting.
"Who has gone? Do you mean Fraya? Yes, I have returned to come home, and find out what is going on here. Along my travels I have encountered a few like-minded fellows. They too are searching for answers here, with their own purpose. Me, this is my home. If there is something going on here that I can help stop, then I am duty-bound to do so."
Rowarin grasps Nathaniel by the hands soft, but firmly. He sees the look of despair on his old friend's face. He places his hand on his shoulder, with the intention to soothe and relieve some of the pain. Perhaps inside he can be more talkative. Then I can ask about my family.
"Please, let's go inside the inn. It would be good for you to tell me everything you know. Let's get to the bottom of this, and surely find your beloved."
Rowarin begins guiding Nathaniel towards the inn, picking up his basket to hand back to him. "Wedding you say? Finally plucked up the courage huh!"
“Water and something else. What kind of ale do you have in these parts? And anything to snack on? Thanks … and your name is?.. “. He turns around and looks at the Dragonborn again, listening to their conversation, then turns back around to the innkeep, saying “And who would have actual knowledge about these disappearances, not rumor, but someone who isn’t blowing smoke up everyone’s arses. Do you know who we should talk to?” Kulogall pauses for a moment, considering the innkeeper, noticing his behavior. “Hey, are you ok? You look like you need some sleep! Is there anyone here to help you? You just seem ah… a little distracted?” He stops and observes his response.
Leeta looked at the withered rose with sadness. It reminded her of Withertown itself: while it seemed to have been a well-off and beautiful town, the tragedy that had befallen it had turned it into a sad looking almost empty place. As if it was, like the flower, dying too.
She wondered about the family that had sat around that table. They must have been happy! And as she thought about this, she felt a twinge of envy. She could have sat at a similar table, if only her parents hadn't abandoned her. The tinge of envy turned to anger, and when she realized her inner turmoil she shook the head. To hell with her parents, her family were Jezza and Mizu, and those two child-abandoning persons could burn in hell for all she cared.
Looking at the two sets of footprints and the dust coming from the ceiling, she whispered:
- The footprints exiting the hole could be older. Perhaps she went upstairs? Anyway, there's definitely someone upstairs... Let's check.
As she followed Mizu, she asked:
- By the way, what's up between you and Rixian? You both act preeeetty weird...!
Mizu blinks as Leeta runs off after the girl she hadn't even seen... well that settles it then. He can't just let her run off by herself when she doesn't know who she is looking for. He gives a brief glance back at the others before taking off after his friend and the dirty girl. As he enters the alley, he attempts to parkour up to the roof by jumping from wall to wall (if it is narrow enough) thinking that traveling by rooftop will be faster and lend him a better vantage point to find both Leeta and the stranger.
Acrobatics: 9
Butttt.... it seems his time on the ship did accustom him to some sort of motion that he wasn't aware of, and he severely miscalculated the width of the walls, resulting in him basically just vaulting off one side and slamming into the other wall. He grimaces, but doesn't let himself look back to see if anyone was watching. The last thing he needs is distractions, and if they all start thinking of him as just some silly kid that's not going to help anything. He lets out a long breath, then does his best to content himself with just running after Leeta--not that he can really catch up to her by now...
As Leeta dashed towards the narrow alley that Rixi points out, Mizu decides it's a good time to practice his parkour only to find that the alley is a little TOO narrow to run through. He has an awkward moment of being wedged between the two buildings even though he is plenty small enough to fit between them.
After Mizu gets himself unstuck, both of you can clearly see a wooden fence at the back which attaches the two buildings, but no sign of the red-haired girl. However, if you venture forward, as soon as you hit the fence you locate an obvious hole entering the building on the right. Kneeling down, you can see into the building and see that there is another hole of the same side exiting out the back of the building. Luckily, you are both the size of small children and could squeeze your way through the hole.
(You both can roll perception and or survival) (Anyone who followed would be able to see the same thing, but the rest of you would be to big to fit through that hole)
As Rowarin looks around he does see a couple familiar faces. Mostly those of the people standing at the booths selling food and the sorts. However, one face stands out among the crowd. A human who you recognize as one of your childhood friends, Nathanial. The man hands some coin to one of the shop owners in return for some bread and apples and turns to walk away. He seems sad, and doesn't look like he has much energy.
(For those of you who head strait for the Inn)
Meanwhile, the rest of the party continues a little deeper into town. The Stonedog inn is a rather large two story building, seems they've added on since the town's been growing. At the base of the stairs leading to the door sits a Stone statue of a dog holding a sign in it's mouth. "Welcome to StoneDog Inn." Overall, the place seems quite friendly.
Entering the building, the party is met with the sound of laughter. Looking around, the source is easy to pick out. Sitting at a table almost in the center of the room, a Human man, a Dwarven man, and a Bronze Dragonborn woman refill what is likely not just their second glass of ale. The Human and the Dwarf look to be town residents, farmers or merchants, the dragonborn however wears adventuring attire, studded leather and a rapier at her hip.
Slamming her mug on the table she exclaims, "I do be promisin ye this laddies, I'll put n end to whatever done be takin your townfolk! Then I'll be usin it's head as a trophy!"
The Human laughs loudly, "HAHAH! But what if Jone here is the Killer! Would you really be wantin his head on yer wall?" He juts his thumb at the dwarf.
"Wahhh? You've had to much to drink Frank, you know I ain't responsible!" The dwarf retorts.
As that odd group continues laughing and talking amongst themselves, a small halfling rushes back and forth between the few customers in the building. The innkeep, Bill Trent stands idly behind the counter polishing a mug that doesn't look dirty. He has a distant look in his eyes, and doesn't notice the party enter.
(All of you who went to Stonedog with a passive perception of 11 would notice)
There is a figure sitting in the darkest corner of the inn. He is wearing a dark trench coat with a broad-brimmed hat low over his eyes, but it does not cover all of his charcoal grey skin or the locks of silver-white hair falling just past his pointed ears. A cup sits on the table in front of him, but he has no food. He seems to be watching the group of laughing people, but you get the feeling he's watching you as well.
Leeta runs up to the hole, but hears the loud slam behind her, and that stops her from continuing. Could that have been Mizu? She waits a little for whoever caused the noise to catch up, while she takes a look at the hole.
Perception: 21. Survival: 13
Down, down, down by the river ♫
Nessa | Alana | Ashur | Saxa | Saoirse | Auriel | Leeta
It takes a few moments for Mizu to catch up with Leeta--rubbing his bruised shoulder when he thinks no one is looking.
He eyes the hole,
Perception: 17 Survival: 21
Then he looks to Leeta, "This looks... suspicious." He eyes the hole again, then shrugs, and holds up one arm as he casts Find Familiar. A snow hawk materializes on his arm. Leeta would recognize the creature as Soma, Mizu's familiar. "So we can keep in contact with the others," he says. Perhaps a raven would have been a better choice, but the snow hawk was Soma's default form, so he hadn't considered that a creature with voice mimicking abilities might be more useful. Oh well. He instructs Soma to stay with the rest of their companions, and she flies off towards them--that way Mizu and Leeta don't have trouble meeting up with them again. Then he readies himself to enter the hole.
(Soma)
(I don't want to edit my last post for fear of 'manipulating' the dice rolls, but I wanted to add that Soma will join up with the rest of the party, likely choosing one of the other 'water folk' to perch on :) )
- That girl must be really scared... I hope we can talk to her and make her see we only want to help!
When Soma appears, Leeta caresses his little head fondly, a familiarity given by so many years of the three of them being together and doing all sort of stuff at their Order's grounds.
- Good idea. Okaaaaay, in we go! - she says, following the genasi inside the hole.
Down, down, down by the river ♫
Nessa | Alana | Ashur | Saxa | Saoirse | Auriel | Leeta
Scanning the crowd, Rowarin spots on old friend, Nathaniel.
"Nathaniel, wait!" Rowarin shouts from across the street, as he makes his way over to where Nathaniel is.
"Nathaniel my old friend, how are you?" Rowarin notices the look of sadness upon his old friends' face. "Are you alright? Listen, if you got some time I'd like to have a catch-up. Especially to find out what is going on here. Some of my companions are heading over to the inn, would you care to join us?"
Rowarin points towards the StoneDog, where they spot some of his companions heading into.
Mina watches the small ones of their group chase after the dirty girl and shrugs. "We'll be at the Inn!" she calls after them, not really wanting to go on a wild goose chase at the moment as some ale is sounding mighty fine.
Heading towards the large building she notices that Rowarin spots someone he knows. Watching him head off, she continues with the rest to the StoneDog Inn and heads inside. Startled by the laughter after the quietness of the town, she finds herself staring at the three loud drinkers at one of the tables.
Once she stops staring, she looks around, noticing the one in the trenchcoat in the corner, but decides to leave them to their faculties and heads up to the bar. Seeing that the man behind the counter is quite distracted, she coughs loudly to get his attention, "Hello there, might I get something to drink?"
Rixi felt conflicted at first; One hand there's a halfling and a water genasi, his worst nightmare, trying to pursue what he just saw. They're both fast, he isn't, so he's unsure if trying to follow secretly behind would be the best maneuverer. On the other hand though... the Sea Elf, Triton and the perfectly 'normal' Wizard are at a slow pace to the inn. But... Two 'sworn enemies...' not a good sign either. Maybe he might fare worse if he's around them... or...
Faced with either losing his strange new teammates or turning insane, he slowly unhooks his polearm from his back before firmly gripping it on his left hand, which is currently wreathed in burning hot flames. "Shikata ga nai 仕方がない..." (Translation: I guess It can't be helped) he mutters as he decides to follow Mizu and Leeta rather than risk himself turning into an actual threat in the early stage. Maybe whoever was watching us might be able to provide some info for him.
Perception: 8 Survival: 16
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Campaign
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
DM - The Road to Redemption (Homebrew, WIP)
Noticing that Rixian has followed her and Mizu, Leeta waits for the fire genasi to come a little closer and waves at him. She even jumps a little, hoping this can help him see her, for he doesn't seem to have not notice her... Not an weird thing at all, taking into account she's a tad bit small.
Just in case he doesn't see us and the hole!!
Down, down, down by the river ♫
Nessa | Alana | Ashur | Saxa | Saoirse | Auriel | Leeta
Kulogall strides up to the bar and puts his hand on the counter. “Parched. I am. Yes. Quite thirsty. Do you have any water?” He snaps his fingers, getting the innkeep’s attention. “My manners. I apologize. My name is Kulogall and this is my good friend Mina. What do you have? Besides water I mean.” He turns at the sounds and the discussion at the table, jerking his webbed thumb back towards it, “Do you know what they’re talking about? What’s going on?” His eyes dart around the room and he sees the figure in the trench coat, he lets his eyes not linger but continue to move around the room like he is looking for someone..
Mizu turns as Rixian approaches. Soma is just lifting off, when she too takes note of the fire genasi. The white hawk circles Rixian's head for a moment before landing on his shoulder and cocking her head--eyeing him. She seems to be quite comfortable there, as if his fiery nature is something familiar to her. Mizu gives the bird a flat look before mentally telling her, Go find the rest of the group. I guess he's with us. He is, admittedly, a little confused at why Rixian was there--he'd been getting the feeling for a while that the other genasi isn't super fond of him. In response, Soma ruffles her feathers as if stating that this is the only other party member she can think of.
"That's not Master, Soma." Mizu says in an undertone, then, realizing he spoke aloud he turns his head away from Rixian--not wanting to make eye contact--before continuing mentally. Go find the rest of the group. You might be comfortable there, but Rixian might not appreciate becoming your new perch.
Soma lets out an irritated sound--as well as something that could have been a huff--and then flies back down the alley and towards the inn.
Finally, Mizu turns his attention to Rixian--briefly glancing at Leeta, who is trying to get the fire genasi's attention. After a moment he gestures towards the hole and says in his quiet voice, "The girl probably went through here. ...Not sure if you can follow us though." He turns to Leeta, as he expects that he and she will be following the girl regardless as to whether or not the fire genasi can fit through the small opening.
Rixi approaches the hole and notes how small it looks. He then notices the white eagle briefly circling around him before it perches on his shoulder. In retrospective, he's more than ok with animals, especially rare birds like these, coming into friendly contact with him, especially since he's always surrounded by animals back in the Sword Coast. He gives off an unnoticeable grin; If his crush Daisy was there she would be screaming with jealousy. But, since its master must be that Water Genasi, he couldn't help but frown and arch his aching head down at this coincidence. Oh well... And as he looks back up, he easily notices Leeta waving towards him on the otherside. Sigh, yeah, yeah I get it. I'm coming. He thinks as the edges of his silky black hair fizzle with sparks upon coming into contact with his flame-wreathed jacket. But... it doesn't seem like he can fit through either, despite his slim height, not mention that his glaive might be in the way. "...I don't know if I can, but If not, I won't force it." He does his best to squeeze in whilst keeping his glaive from being lodged in between the gap if he does so.
Rixian immediately winces as he flashbacks to what Mizu unconsciously said in front of his face. Huh? The little hawk think I'm his master? No that's ridiculous! There's no way I'll ever be fit to become one especially towards him! Argh... What is he even talking about?! He thinks with wave of uneasiness, completely oblivious of the fact that the master Mizu was referring to was in fact, the same race as he is.
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Campaign
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
DM - The Road to Redemption (Homebrew, WIP)
Leeta and Mizu manage to squeeze themselves through the tiny hole and into the dining room of the house. While this building doesn't appear to have been in bad shape (apart from the child-sized hole) it's clear that it hasn't been occupied for a while. By the looks of the bare shelves and cabinets, whoever lived here packed up all that they could carry. A thin layer of dust covers the dining table, and the six chairs surrounding it. A withered rose lays on the seat of the chair just left of the table's head, perhaps this family lost a child and fled for fear of losing the rest. There's a staircase on the far end of the room, along with an open wall which likely leads to the living room. Both of you notice a distinct footprint clearly leading through the other hole exiting the house, however you also note that a lot of the dust on the floor has been disturbed leaving a faint trail towards the stairs, and that there's a lot of dust falling from the ceiling...
Rixi on the other hand, is left outside in the narrow alley he's just a little to big to fit through the child-sized hole. (Sorry if this wasn't clear, Leeta is small, and I'm considering Mizu child-sized based on Aroc's physical description of him...which now that I think about it may have been in the PMs...) Unfortunately for him, Soma may have proven to be a distraction as he doesn't notice anything significant.
Nathaniel looks confused for a moment when a stranger calls his name. However when Rowarin gets a bit closer, recognition slowly dawns on the man. "Rowarin? That's you isn't it?" His hands start shaking and he suddenly drop his basket and grabs the aasimar's shoulders. "You went to become a soldier didn't you? Did you come to save the missing?" You see tears forming in his eyes, "Please say you are. They...it...she's gone. We just had our wedding--" He chokes, trying to hold back a sob but failing. His grip on your shoulders grows weak and he bows his head letting his tears fall to the ground. Realization dawns on you. You remember the girl Rowarin always liked, and it had been pretty obvious that she liked him as well. Her name was Fraya. She was a half elf.
The innkeep gives a start when two sea-folk suddenly appear before him asking for drinks. "Of course." He says, putting down the mug he had been holding then pulling another from under the counter. Then he pauses for a moment and looks at Kulogall. "That lot?" He nods to the rowdy group in the middle, "That dragonborn's new to town, she's started investigating the disappearances. As you can see, she hasn't gotten far." He pauses for a moment. "Uh, sorry Did you want water or something else?" The man is clearly distracted, though it looks it may be from lack of sleep.
"Nope. I can't." Rixi grunts as he struggles to fit even his foot inside the hole before he stands back up. "I'll stay outside. Go ahead and inform me what you saw when you're back."
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade); Crimson Sands of Time
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Campaign
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance); Path Of Blood
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
DM - The Road to Redemption (Homebrew, WIP)
Mizu takes in the dusty scene around him, "Hmmm..." He tilts his head, eyeing the footprints and the falling dust above them. "The girl probably went out, so I don't really think we'll be able to find her again." Turning his attention to the staircase, he takes a step towards them before looking back through the hole, where Rixian is waiting on the other side. He blinks, considering for a moment, then leans over, just enough to where Rixian can see his face through the small hole as he says, "It's mostly just dust... but there might be something upstairs. ...If you can find a way around, you might be able to get in through a door?" He didn't see a front door leading into this room, but he's assuming that... well this is a house so there has to be a front door somewhere. So if the fire genasi really wants a way in he doesn't really have to just sit out there and wait... does he?
Standing up, he begins making his way up the staircase.
Rowarin catches up with Nathaniel, who upon recognition, seems to falter and become both visibly upset and relieved. When he drops the basket and grabs Rowarin by the shoulders, it startles Rowarin a little as he wasn't prepared for such a greeting.
"Who has gone? Do you mean Fraya? Yes, I have returned to come home, and find out what is going on here. Along my travels I have encountered a few like-minded fellows. They too are searching for answers here, with their own purpose. Me, this is my home. If there is something going on here that I can help stop, then I am duty-bound to do so."
Rowarin grasps Nathaniel by the hands soft, but firmly. He sees the look of despair on his old friend's face. He places his hand on his shoulder, with the intention to soothe and relieve some of the pain. Perhaps inside he can be more talkative. Then I can ask about my family.
"Please, let's go inside the inn. It would be good for you to tell me everything you know. Let's get to the bottom of this, and surely find your beloved."
Rowarin begins guiding Nathaniel towards the inn, picking up his basket to hand back to him. "Wedding you say? Finally plucked up the courage huh!"
“Water and something else. What kind of ale do you have in these parts? And anything to snack on? Thanks … and your name is?.. “. He turns around and looks at the Dragonborn again, listening to their conversation, then turns back around to the innkeep, saying “And who would have actual knowledge about these disappearances, not rumor, but someone who isn’t blowing smoke up everyone’s arses. Do you know who we should talk to?” Kulogall pauses for a moment, considering the innkeeper, noticing his behavior. “Hey, are you ok? You look like you need some sleep! Is there anyone here to help you? You just seem ah… a little distracted?” He stops and observes his response.
Insight : 10
Leeta looked at the withered rose with sadness. It reminded her of Withertown itself: while it seemed to have been a well-off and beautiful town, the tragedy that had befallen it had turned it into a sad looking almost empty place. As if it was, like the flower, dying too.
She wondered about the family that had sat around that table. They must have been happy! And as she thought about this, she felt a twinge of envy. She could have sat at a similar table, if only her parents hadn't abandoned her. The tinge of envy turned to anger, and when she realized her inner turmoil she shook the head. To hell with her parents, her family were Jezza and Mizu, and those two child-abandoning persons could burn in hell for all she cared.
Looking at the two sets of footprints and the dust coming from the ceiling, she whispered:
- The footprints exiting the hole could be older. Perhaps she went upstairs? Anyway, there's definitely someone upstairs... Let's check.
As she followed Mizu, she asked:
- By the way, what's up between you and Rixian? You both act preeeetty weird...!
Down, down, down by the river ♫
Nessa | Alana | Ashur | Saxa | Saoirse | Auriel | Leeta