It's a little past noon, and you are all travel weary. Despite this fact, Kalegren, immediately recognizes his hometown, though it seems to have expanded a good deal over the years of his absence. It's no longer the quaint little town that it once was. This isn't surprising, it had always been a well off trading town.
At first glance, the town looks like...well any other profitable town. Most of the houses on this side of the neighborhood are on the larger side when compared to the residences of most working folk. However, upon walking under the "Welcome to Withermore" sign above the main street. It becomes apparent that something is wrong.
As the group makes its way into the village, the area gives off a feeling of emptiness. Even in the middle of the day, there seem to be far less people around then the number of buildings would suggest. Many of the townsfolk who see you either stare with half-glazed eyes or scurry indoors. However, a few look at the new comers with curiosity if not hope.
Out of the entire town, there are two buildings that stand out the most. The first being the Mayor's house, not because it is large, but rather because it has been built on a small hill in what likely used to be the middle of town. It's red tiled roof is easily seen over the brown roofs of the surrounding buildings. The town Mayor, Mickael Herrenson, was the one who sent out the plea for help and the promise of a reward.
The second building is likely the largest building in town. Thar easily recognizes the StoneDog Inn and Tavern, Bill Trent, the owner of the Inn, and his wife, Millain were always kind people. They would never turn away a customer, even if that customer was a large bugbear and his family. Of course, there are other inns and taverns in Withermore, but StoneDog is the most popular. The more popular, the more information and Thar would guess that if his father had visited the town, that would be the place he would have stayed.
With his head covered by a hood, that he had to make a pair of holes for his ears to stand, trying to cover his face more from being used to it than a real need, not here at least, the towering bugbear looked around.
“I suggest we go to the StoneDog Inn. It will be the first place to start and probably Bill and Millian would have some information about my father… and the other missing ones…”
Despite his words he heads in that direction not really looking if the others follow him or don’t. The point of the Glaive he carries crossed at his back moved steadily as he walked away.
Kit gives Omen an apologetic look, knowing he's a creature of subtlety and finesse while Thar...well Thar is a Bugbear in a porcelain shop, blunt and direct.
"I'm sorry," she mouths at the Kenku before scurrying after Thar.
"Hey there, Big Guy. I know you're hurting but..."
She stands in front of the Bugbear, looking him directly in the eyes.
"These people are hurting too. What happened to your father, it's happening to them. To their families and their loved ones. We need to be sensitive to that. If we just go barging in and demanding answers we aren't helping anyone, we're part of the problem."
Omen's head would gently sway back and forth as they walked through the town. His eyes darting from one person to the next as he tried to mentally record every face and every feature of the town as they passed. The shinning sun would reflect upon his silky black feathers, while his black tophat would bob up and down with every step. The kenku had never been to this town. Omen had never taken on a case with such a large reward as well. He knew some of his new associates better than others but only really trusted Kit. Seeing the bugbear make his way towards the inn, and the following look from Kit... he would simply give her a nod. "The inn is a good place to start Thar... Good idea" He would say with a nod towards the bugbear. "I'm sure we can find someone inside that can get us pointed in the right direction. The trick is to do so without getting too much attention... Although I suppose if the attention is on YOU Thar, that means it isn't on ME... and that would be a nice change of pace." He would add with a beaky grin.
That stops and looks down to his friend and the Kenji, listening to the echo of voices when he speaks still amazes him.
“I wouldn’t be rude… but certainly I tend to attract the attention of the crowd hehe. No time to waste though let’s go…” but now he waits for Kit to nod to him.
Amery Waylen scans the somewhat deserted town of Whithermore. A bustling town on the rise would definitely suit Vera's taste, but where is she. As a habit he pats is sidearm in its holster on the right side of his waist covered by his long coat. I hope I won't be needing you, but I have a feeling that is a false hope. If I have learned anything at the Bryashe agency as that people like to talk especially if they have been drinking."I am in agreement lets go to the tavern."
As he walks, he looks to the few people still about hoping to see his half-sister.
Withermore. Home... At least it before I ****ed everything up.
The wind cut harder through me than Mordenkainen's Sword. In lieu of a cloak I opted into my pocket to retrieve a flask of Amberfire and flipped the lid open. One sip to keep the cold out, two sips to gather my wits, and three sips to keep the demons at bay. I wiped my mouth with the corner of my sleeve. It was hard to tell what had changed more: the olde hometown or me. And none for the better.
I cocked my head. The chatter besides me served as a reminder why I prefer to work alone. But when the bozos back at the church tell you to jump, I'm to ask "how high?" and shunt all thoughts of defenestrating myself. At least they had been kind enough to provide me with some information on who I'm working with. Of course they relayed it through Lulu. Sweet thing, Lulu, but her handwriting was worth less than a dwarf's beard in Evereska. Not to mention I had to literally use a magnifying glass to decipher her scribbles. What was it she said?
- Amery Waylen: one part farmboy, one part trouble, all around nice guy. He's with something called the Bryashe Agency. Freelance, nothing backing them up other than reputation. Got to respect that. Has family in Withermore. Guess that's why he's here.
- Kit Forthall: street artist. So she claims. Doesn't give off the vibe that she's from the street. Probably has some skeletons rattling around in her closet but none that the Order could discover yet. Not clear on what she's doing in Withermore.
- Omen Blacktalon: former thief turned investigator. Got caught with jewels and managed to turn it into a sweet deal with the Baldur's Gate city guards. Is in it for the money. Has history with Kit.
- Thar the Tower: cute nickname. Knows rune magic, which is typically only found among giants. No idea how he came across it. Has the face of a thug and the prowess to beat up anyone who calls him out on it. His father is one of the missing people so for him, it's personal.
I frowned. I actually had a run-in with Thar a while back. The poor schmuck had just passed through an active crime scene and just because he looked like he did it, everyone jumped the wand to slam his paws into manacles. He was innocent of course, not that it took that much investigating, and walked away an experience richer and an opinion poorer. He probably doesn't even remember me. Just got one of those faces. And magic. But mostly the face, I'd wager.
The group headed off. We were going to the Stonedog Inn. Local watering holes were always the popular spot to start a new investigation. Nothing that gets the lips going than some coin and liquor. I shot a telepathic message to Lulu to stay invisible and keep her eyes open. If people were going missing from Withermore, I wouldn't like to add two more to them.
'Sure, let's go. I could use a drink anyway.' I put my hands in my pockets and followed. I didn't like the look of the town. Never did.
Minds made up, you all make your way towards the StoneDog Inn. As Amery asks around about his half-sister, he finds that many of the townsfolk aren't willing to talk. Many responding with a worried "I-I don't know. You should go ask the Mayor. He's the one who called for you right?" before scurrying away. However, there are also a good few who seem genuinely grateful for your arrival, and are relatively friendly giving responses along the lines of, "Vera? I'm not sure, its a big town...well it used to be anyways. I do hope you find her though. Along with the other missing of course! Uh..not to say Vera is among them." However, after asking around a bit he does manage to find a few people who knew her. Mostly the owners of some a few of the shops that have remained open. Apparently, Vera had been a fairly frequent visitor of theirs and they haven't seen her in almost a month. Not good news.
Continuing towards the Inn, you all get the feeling that you are being watched.
Everyone can roll perception DC 12. Those who pass will see:
A young girl pokes her head out from between two buildings. She looks to be around 13-14 years old, has a face full of freckles, piercing green eyes, and a mass of unkempt curly red hair with two slightly pointed ears barely managing to point through the curls. Based on this, she looks to be a half-elf, half wood elf to be precise.
She watches you curiously, with a hint of suspicion in her eyes. She sniffs, and wipes her nose leaving a smudge of dirt on her already dusty face. As soon as you look her direction, she darts back between the buildings.
Amery is disheartened about what he is hearing about his sister Vera. He puts his hand over his heart and looks up. In his mind he says a prayer to the gods in hopes they watch over Vera and keep her safe and sound.
Omen spots the green eyed freckled girl as she watches the group from the alley. "don't look now but we're being watched..." The kenku would say while motioning over his shoulder towards the girl..
Some street urchin was watching us. Young, dirty, suspicious, probably eyeing us to see if we're worth the hassle of mugging. Two of the group went over to check it out. They could handle it: they're big adults. I turned my attention back to the matter at hand. The Stonedog Inn and a stiff drink awaited. Just out of precaution I muttered a swift incantation and opened up my senses to the unseen. After ordering Lulu to follow Kit and Thar unseen and to report back to me, I entered the inn and headed straigh for the counter.
As Kit and Thar approach the narrow alley, Thar soon finds that getting around in there might be a problem. His broad shoulders are a good deal wider than the alley itself. He could inch through it sideways, but it would be a bit awkward. Kit however can fit through without a problem. Both of them can clearly see a wooden fence at the back which attaches the two buildings, but no sign of the red-haired girl. However, if Kit ventures forward, as soon as she hits the fence she finds an obvious hole entering the building on the right. Kneeling down, she can see into the building and see that there is another hole of the same side exiting out the back of the building. Unfortunately, even Kit would have a hard time fitting through this hole.
(Both of you can roll perception and or survival.)
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.
When Kalgren casts his spell, he can detect some faint traces of Enchantment magic, it seems to hang around several of those in the room like an odd mist. Something about it feels old. It's hard to place your finger on, but if you had to guess the spell was probably cast a while ago. The mist does not hang over the Dragonborn, or over Bill.
When he stops at the counter, Bill looks up a bit surprised. "Kalgren? Is that you? Haven't seen you in these parts for a while."He puts the mug down, "What can I getcha. nn, would I be correct in guessin you've heard what's been happening here?" The man asks, though he seems a good deal less enthusiastic than Kalgren remembers him being.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"Hello, Little One," Kit calls out in Elvish as she enters the first hole into the building. "I'm Kit and, if you can hear me, I'd like to talk to you. I'm new to town and looking for a guide."
As she enters the building she quickly looks around to take stock of the room she's in.
It's a little past noon, and you are all travel weary. Despite this fact, Kalegren, immediately recognizes his hometown, though it seems to have expanded a good deal over the years of his absence. It's no longer the quaint little town that it once was. This isn't surprising, it had always been a well off trading town.
At first glance, the town looks like...well any other profitable town. Most of the houses on this side of the neighborhood are on the larger side when compared to the residences of most working folk. However, upon walking under the "Welcome to Withermore" sign above the main street. It becomes apparent that something is wrong.
As the group makes its way into the village, the area gives off a feeling of emptiness. Even in the middle of the day, there seem to be far less people around then the number of buildings would suggest. Many of the townsfolk who see you either stare with half-glazed eyes or scurry indoors. However, a few look at the new comers with curiosity if not hope.
Out of the entire town, there are two buildings that stand out the most. The first being the Mayor's house, not because it is large, but rather because it has been built on a small hill in what likely used to be the middle of town. It's red tiled roof is easily seen over the brown roofs of the surrounding buildings. The town Mayor, Mickael Herrenson, was the one who sent out the plea for help and the promise of a reward.
The second building is likely the largest building in town. Thar easily recognizes the StoneDog Inn and Tavern, Bill Trent, the owner of the Inn, and his wife, Millain were always kind people. They would never turn away a customer, even if that customer was a large bugbear and his family. Of course, there are other inns and taverns in Withermore, but StoneDog is the most popular. The more popular, the more information and Thar would guess that if his father had visited the town, that would be the place he would have stayed.
With his head covered by a hood, that he had to make a pair of holes for his ears to stand, trying to cover his face more from being used to it than a real need, not here at least, the towering bugbear looked around.
“I suggest we go to the StoneDog Inn. It will be the first place to start and probably Bill and Millian would have some information about my father… and the other missing ones…”
Despite his words he heads in that direction not really looking if the others follow him or don’t. The point of the Glaive he carries crossed at his back moved steadily as he walked away.
PbP Character: A few ;)
Kit gives Omen an apologetic look, knowing he's a creature of subtlety and finesse while Thar...well Thar is a Bugbear in a porcelain shop, blunt and direct.
"I'm sorry," she mouths at the Kenku before scurrying after Thar.
"Hey there, Big Guy. I know you're hurting but..."
She stands in front of the Bugbear, looking him directly in the eyes.
"These people are hurting too. What happened to your father, it's happening to them. To their families and their loved ones. We need to be sensitive to that. If we just go barging in and demanding answers we aren't helping anyone, we're part of the problem."
Character image reminder in spoiler:
Omen's head would gently sway back and forth as they walked through the town. His eyes darting from one person to the next as he tried to mentally record every face and every feature of the town as they passed. The shinning sun would reflect upon his silky black feathers, while his black tophat would bob up and down with every step. The kenku had never been to this town. Omen had never taken on a case with such a large reward as well. He knew some of his new associates better than others but only really trusted Kit. Seeing the bugbear make his way towards the inn, and the following look from Kit... he would simply give her a nod. "The inn is a good place to start Thar... Good idea" He would say with a nod towards the bugbear. "I'm sure we can find someone inside that can get us pointed in the right direction. The trick is to do so without getting too much attention... Although I suppose if the attention is on YOU Thar, that means it isn't on ME... and that would be a nice change of pace." He would add with a beaky grin.
That stops and looks down to his friend and the Kenji, listening to the echo of voices when he speaks still amazes him.
“I wouldn’t be rude… but certainly I tend to attract the attention of the crowd hehe. No time to waste though let’s go…” but now he waits for Kit to nod to him.
PbP Character: A few ;)
Amery Waylen scans the somewhat deserted town of Whithermore. A bustling town on the rise would definitely suit Vera's taste, but where is she. As a habit he pats is sidearm in its holster on the right side of his waist covered by his long coat. I hope I won't be needing you, but I have a feeling that is a false hope. If I have learned anything at the Bryashe agency as that people like to talk especially if they have been drinking. "I am in agreement lets go to the tavern."
As he walks, he looks to the few people still about hoping to see his half-sister.
Kit gives Thar a nod and stands aside, reaching up to pat him on the back as she follows him to the inn.
Actress Ruby Cruz as the character Kit Tanthalos, Willow (2022) inspiration for Kit's name and appearance.
Withermore. Home... At least it before I ****ed everything up.
The wind cut harder through me than Mordenkainen's Sword. In lieu of a cloak I opted into my pocket to retrieve a flask of Amberfire and flipped the lid open. One sip to keep the cold out, two sips to gather my wits, and three sips to keep the demons at bay. I wiped my mouth with the corner of my sleeve. It was hard to tell what had changed more: the olde hometown or me. And none for the better.
I cocked my head. The chatter besides me served as a reminder why I prefer to work alone. But when the bozos back at the church tell you to jump, I'm to ask "how high?" and shunt all thoughts of defenestrating myself. At least they had been kind enough to provide me with some information on who I'm working with. Of course they relayed it through Lulu. Sweet thing, Lulu, but her handwriting was worth less than a dwarf's beard in Evereska. Not to mention I had to literally use a magnifying glass to decipher her scribbles. What was it she said?
- Amery Waylen: one part farmboy, one part trouble, all around nice guy. He's with something called the Bryashe Agency. Freelance, nothing backing them up other than reputation. Got to respect that. Has family in Withermore. Guess that's why he's here.
- Kit Forthall: street artist. So she claims. Doesn't give off the vibe that she's from the street. Probably has some skeletons rattling around in her closet but none that the Order could discover yet. Not clear on what she's doing in Withermore.
- Omen Blacktalon: former thief turned investigator. Got caught with jewels and managed to turn it into a sweet deal with the Baldur's Gate city guards. Is in it for the money. Has history with Kit.
- Thar the Tower: cute nickname. Knows rune magic, which is typically only found among giants. No idea how he came across it. Has the face of a thug and the prowess to beat up anyone who calls him out on it. His father is one of the missing people so for him, it's personal.
I frowned. I actually had a run-in with Thar a while back. The poor schmuck had just passed through an active crime scene and just because he looked like he did it, everyone jumped the wand to slam his paws into manacles. He was innocent of course, not that it took that much investigating, and walked away an experience richer and an opinion poorer. He probably doesn't even remember me. Just got one of those faces. And magic. But mostly the face, I'd wager.
The group headed off. We were going to the Stonedog Inn. Local watering holes were always the popular spot to start a new investigation. Nothing that gets the lips going than some coin and liquor. I shot a telepathic message to Lulu to stay invisible and keep her eyes open. If people were going missing from Withermore, I wouldn't like to add two more to them.
'Sure, let's go. I could use a drink anyway.' I put my hands in my pockets and followed. I didn't like the look of the town. Never did.
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
Tyrgram, the Butterfly Knight: Dwarf Warlock - Secret of Greenwold
Iòlinder Corrach: Half Elf War Cleric - Allansia Adventure
Minds made up, you all make your way towards the StoneDog Inn. As Amery asks around about his half-sister, he finds that many of the townsfolk aren't willing to talk. Many responding with a worried "I-I don't know. You should go ask the Mayor. He's the one who called for you right?" before scurrying away. However, there are also a good few who seem genuinely grateful for your arrival, and are relatively friendly giving responses along the lines of, "Vera? I'm not sure, its a big town...well it used to be anyways. I do hope you find her though. Along with the other missing of course! Uh..not to say Vera is among them." However, after asking around a bit he does manage to find a few people who knew her. Mostly the owners of some a few of the shops that have remained open. Apparently, Vera had been a fairly frequent visitor of theirs and they haven't seen her in almost a month. Not good news.
Continuing towards the Inn, you all get the feeling that you are being watched.
Everyone can roll perception DC 12. Those who pass will see:
A young girl pokes her head out from between two buildings. She looks to be around 13-14 years old, has a face full of freckles, piercing green eyes, and a mass of unkempt curly red hair with two slightly pointed ears barely managing to point through the curls. Based on this, she looks to be a half-elf, half wood elf to be precise.
She watches you curiously, with a hint of suspicion in her eyes. She sniffs, and wipes her nose leaving a smudge of dirt on her already dusty face. As soon as you look her direction, she darts back between the buildings.
Amery is disheartened about what he is hearing about his sister Vera. He puts his hand over his heart and looks up. In his mind he says a prayer to the gods in hopes they watch over Vera and keep her safe and sound.
Perception
6 rolled in game log.
Omen perception 21
Omen spots the green eyed freckled girl as she watches the group from the alley. "don't look now but we're being watched..." The kenku would say while motioning over his shoulder towards the girl..
23
"I'll see if I can talk to her," Kit says as she traces a finger tip up her own pointed ear. "Meet you at the Stonedog?"
(Unless there are any strenuous objections, Kit will head around the corner in the hopes that the girl is still nearby)
That had noticed the girl but doesn’t react to it.
“Be watchful she probably want to rob us…” he mutters to Kit as she follows the girl
PbP Character: A few ;)
Thar's warning stops Kit short.
"How dangerous can it be? It's not like we're down in the low side of Baldur's Gate."
Despite her bravado, Kit's movements are noticably more cautious as she continues to head in between the buildings.
"Watch yourself Kit, I don't need you disappearing" Omen would whisper as he continues on his way down the street.
Some street urchin was watching us. Young, dirty, suspicious, probably eyeing us to see if we're worth the hassle of mugging. Two of the group went over to check it out. They could handle it: they're big adults. I turned my attention back to the matter at hand. The Stonedog Inn and a stiff drink awaited. Just out of precaution I muttered a swift incantation and opened up my senses to the unseen. After ordering Lulu to follow Kit and Thar unseen and to report back to me, I entered the inn and headed straigh for the counter.
Casting Detect Magic
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
Tyrgram, the Butterfly Knight: Dwarf Warlock - Secret of Greenwold
Iòlinder Corrach: Half Elf War Cleric - Allansia Adventure
As Kit and Thar approach the narrow alley, Thar soon finds that getting around in there might be a problem. His broad shoulders are a good deal wider than the alley itself. He could inch through it sideways, but it would be a bit awkward. Kit however can fit through without a problem. Both of them can clearly see a wooden fence at the back which attaches the two buildings, but no sign of the red-haired girl. However, if Kit ventures forward, as soon as she hits the fence she finds an obvious hole entering the building on the right. Kneeling down, she can see into the building and see that there is another hole of the same side exiting out the back of the building. Unfortunately, even Kit would have a hard time fitting through this hole.
(Both of you can roll perception and or survival.)
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.
When Kalgren casts his spell, he can detect some faint traces of Enchantment magic, it seems to hang around several of those in the room like an odd mist. Something about it feels old. It's hard to place your finger on, but if you had to guess the spell was probably cast a while ago. The mist does not hang over the Dragonborn, or over Bill.
When he stops at the counter, Bill looks up a bit surprised. "Kalgren? Is that you? Haven't seen you in these parts for a while." He puts the mug down, "What can I getcha. nn, would I be correct in guessin you've heard what's been happening here?" The man asks, though he seems a good deal less enthusiastic than Kalgren remembers him being.
"Hello, Little One," Kit calls out in Elvish as she enters the first hole into the building. "I'm Kit and, if you can hear me, I'd like to talk to you. I'm new to town and looking for a guide."
As she enters the building she quickly looks around to take stock of the room she's in.
(Oops, forgot the perception check 18)