He nodded in agreement. "The townspeople will be invaluable, indeed. They live here afterall." He turned to Kesh when he came and sat at their table and Othorion offered the dragonborn another friendly smile. "But, I have to admit, I am in favour of seeing how things unfold as well. This little venture could turn out to be quite exciting."
He caught the attention of the barkeep. "Ale, for the rest of us who don't have drinks, if you please," he said, before looking back at Kesh. His way of talking was strange, referring to himself in the third person. He'd seen individuals talk that way, but not often. He seemed genuine though, from what little he could gather. Not that he was the best judge of character or anything. He'd been deceived before. Far more than he would like to admit.
But he had a good feeling about Kesh, and the others present.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Othorion Sarfir - Half-Drow Eldritch Knight - The Murder Court
The hour draws nigh and you each have finished your refreshments and your small talk. The Olde Crow has grown more quiet with only a few patrons present besides your group, and the innkeep has stoked a fire to fend off the chill autumn air seeping its way through the cracks in the roughshod building. Most passersby in Jaekin consist of caravans and merchants picking up metals brought down from the mountains or lumber from the forest. A few supplies are regularly brought in for the residents here as well, and most of these travelers lay their heads at the hostel-style quarters of the caravansary just down the street from the inn.
A gust of chill air wafts over your table as the door creaks open and a blonde elven woman takes a few steps inside as the door shuts behind her. She's armed and dressed in mostly greys and blacks with a thick cloak drawn about her shoulders. A blue sash adorns her right hip which marks her as the constable of Jaekin to any with knowledge of such things. Her stern green eyes slowly look over those gathered here for a few moments as she stands in the doorway with one hand on her hip. "You're the ones the Mayor has summoned I take it?" Her voice is definitively Elven as the accent belays her struggle with the common tongue, and her tone is short and to the point as she taps the fingers of her other hand along the hilt of a rapier at her side. "I'm the Constable of Jaekin. The Mayor has sent me to fetch you to the Townhall."
Shaephina turned slightly as Kesh approached, taking in the dragonborn’s unusual manner of speech with a measured gaze. His third-person self-reference was intriguing, but she kept her reaction composed. With a small, polite nod, she responded, "Welcome, Kesh. We’ll see what this venture holds for all of us."
As the constable entered, Shae's attention shifted immediately to the elven woman. The atmosphere in the room grew more tense, signaling the end of their casual gathering. Shaephina rose from her seat, her crimson eyes locking onto the constable’s stern gaze. "We are," she replied with a steady tone, nodding slightly. "Lead the way."
She then glanced briefly at her companions, ensuring they were ready, before following the constable out. The time for idle talk was over; it was time to face whatever awaited them at the Townhall.
The Dragonborn nods. "And it would seem the venture begins, he thinks. One wonders what fine riches or valuable materials he might find along the way." He downs half again of his refill before standing once more. He grabs his satchel and crossbow before proceeding, securing the former over his shoulder and the latter on his back.
He draws in a deep breath as a hiss before stepping out into the colder air. He misses the heat of his home, but fortune favors the bold. And he likes fortune.
"Good to meet you, Shaephina and Kesh." What an interesting group they'd make! Shaephina seemed wise and calm, while Kesh appeared self-assured. The Dragonborn's unique manner of speech interested her though it was a little confusing at first.
When the Constable arrived to pick them up, Joy quickly gulped down the rest of her drink before standing, not wanting any to go to waste. Fortunately, her sturdy constitution made her rather resilient against getting too inebriated. "Yes, let's see what the Mayor has to say. I have a few questions for him already."
As they headed towards the Townhall, Joy couldn't resist attempting to make pleasant small talk with the stern Constable. "So, what's your name? How long have you been the Constable here? It seems like it would be a nice, quiet home without the....well, you know."
He was enjoying his drink when the constable arrived. Upon hearing the door open, he turned to see the elf woman walk in, a stern look on her face, her overall demeanour that of someone was used to being obeyed and their commands followed. When she spoke, her thick elven accent broke through, informing them she was sent to fetch them for the mayor. That was all he needed to hear.
Downing the rest of his drink, he stood after Shaephina and Kesh, shifting the weight of the longsword at his hip so the scabbard wouldn't keep hitting his leg while he walked. Othorion made a slight flourish with his finely made cape. "Off we go, then," he said and followed the group out. Smirking at the way Joy was bombarding the constable with questions. He had a feeling she was going to be the life of their little group.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Othorion Sarfir - Half-Drow Eldritch Knight - The Murder Court
Jaekin has grown quiet as the sun hides its light below rock and wood. The half moon peaks its way from behind thin clouds in a dimly lit sky as you all leave The Olde Crow. The Constable's knee-high boots rap against the cobblestone interspersed with patches of muddy dirt paths. Her eyes reflect the moonlight and never divert from her forward gaze as she addresses the hexblade, "Arlayna Moonglade. I have served as Constable since Haelviird...ahem..Mayor Brodenbuck's election. Prior to that there was no rule of law in Jaekin, none worth mentioning anyway. 'Quiet' here usually means something sinister is afoot between the trees and mountain, you may rest assured of that." Arlayna continues on past the sparse dwellings and workshops that border the rough main thoroughfare through town until a long building facing down the main street comes into view. The townhall sits above most of the other buildings in town and even from this distance it seems as if all of Jaekin's town guard are posted around it.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
The Constable cuts her green eyes at Geren and smirks, "If I had information I would not share it outside the pervue of Mayor Brodenbuck. Townhall is but a few paces away if your patience can withstand the journey. Strange happenings have filled this valley as long as any can recall. Of which sort would you care to hear tall tales?" The elf casts her gaze back toward the long building up the hill as a murder of ravens takes flight behind Townhall. The caws echo down the street as a peel of thunder rumbles low in the darkening clouds above.
Arlayna Moonglade furrows her brow and follows the flight pattern of the crows before focusing her attentions back to her destination. She had grown weary of the stream of 'adventurers' Haelviird had brought in over the past months and it was becoming more and more difficult for her to feign eagerness at the arrival of a fresh crop. If only she could find The Court herself, things would be made much simpler. If only any of the brave explorers had ever returned from this fool's errand...
Geren may make an Insight check with Advantage from his companions observing the conversation.
Shaephina walked in silence, her senses keenly attuned to the surroundings as they made their way to the Townhall. The sight of the guards posted around the building caught her attention, a small furrow forming between her brows. It seemed unusual for such a remote town, and the sight of the ravens taking flight only deepened her unease.
As they neared the Townhall, she finally broke her silence, her tone calm but direct. "You have quite the number of guards posted, Constable Moonglade. Are you expecting trouble?"
Her crimson eyes flicked toward the Townhall, then back to the constable, observing her response carefully. Shaephina wasn’t one to jump to conclusions, but the heavily guarded building suggested more than just a routine meeting.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
The Constable cuts her green eyes at Geren and smirks, "If I had information I would not share it outside the pervue of Mayor Brodenbuck. Townhall is but a few paces away if your patience can withstand the journey. Strange happenings have filled this valley as long as any can recall. Of which sort would you care to hear tall tales?" The elf casts her gaze back toward the long building up the hill as a murder of ravens takes flight behind Townhall. The caws echo down the street as a peel of thunder rumbles low in the darkening clouds above.
Arlayna Moonglade furrows her brow and follows the flight pattern of the crows before focusing her attentions back to her destination. She had grown weary of the stream of 'adventurers' Haelviird had brought in over the past months and it was becoming more and more difficult for her to feign eagerness at the arrival of a fresh crop. If only she could find The Court herself, things would be made much simpler. If only any of the brave explorers had ever returned from this fool's errand...
Geren may make an Insight check with Advantage from his companions observing the conversation.
Arlayna's chuckle is the first break in her demeanor and one that is reigned in quickly, "There is always the potential for trouble especially since Hael...the mayor has been openly defying The Court. You'll see soon enough," she nods to the sky and the ravens growing smaller as they fly across the light of the moon and toward the mountain peaks, "as the crows fly so follow the troubles. You can bet your coins there was something brewing this very night. I can only hope my guard, as poorly trained as they are, can continue to fend those troubles off a while longer. Maybe the lot of you will be the ones to find The Court."
Between Geren and Shae, you can sense the elf is hiding something. She knows more than she's letting on and the slight twist of her lip when she refused to share information about The Murder Court seemed to reveal she knows more about the mysterious group and its location that she is willing to share.
At her reference, the Alchemist cannot help but speak up, unnerved. "This one is confused. He sees a capable... er, warrior before him, yet you say your men are poorly trained. One does not think you are the type to shirk her duty." His voice quivers slightly. "Would you mean to say they die or quit too often to train right? Perhaps this one has misunderstood." The frigid air laps at the flesh beneath Kesh's scales, drawing soft puffs of breath from him as he warms the palms of his hands. He should have dressed warmer. Still, the implications being made serve to only chill him further, in ways even a roaring fire could not allay.
Joy reached to fiddle with her sunburst shaped holy symbol thoughtfully. So, it seemed like the Mayor expected some sort of retaliation for calling them here. "And, if you expect something...couldn't you spare a few of those guards to post around the rest of the town? Just to alert you if something happens. The Murder Court may not go after Hael directly but his people." She glanced through the street and between buildings, towards the dark sea of trees and then back at the Constable.
Arlayna stops short and turns to face the group still out of earshot from the townhall and her guard. She takes in a deep breath before speaking, "These men consist of a few townsfolk and caravan guards who'd either fallen out with their employers or offered a greater reward from the mayor. Their loyalties are shallow and the ones who desire to actually see Jaekin safe, the ones who call Jaekin home, are little more than miners and woodsmen. I do my best but what the Dragonborn speaks is true - the town guard turnover is higher than most. The dangers of this place, predicated by the whims of The Murder Court, hinder any training efforts I may purport." Her tone is one of annoyance and a twinge of despair. The Constable clearly has a daunting task set before her it seems. She looks to Joy, "Hostilities seem to be directed mostly at Mayor Brodenbuck...ever since he began defying our oppressors. If our numbers were greater, if our skills were greater, we could afford to stand sentinel around Jaekin. As it is, we are lucky if we can continue to defend the mayor and townhall from The Court's vile strategies." She stares at the group for just a moment sizing them up before turning on her heel and continuing onward towards the long building set up on the highest hill of Jaekin. "You'll all do well, I'm sure. Perhaps the drow's retainers can share their expertise with my men while they are in town? Any aid would be greatly appreciated." The last is almost uttered with an air of sarcasm and Arlayna trods ever closer to townhall adjusting the blade on her side along the way.
Joy notes nothing more than the empty streets of Jaekin, the mist clinging to the alleys and treelines, and the growing cloud cover that has now hidden the murder of crows flying away. She does catch sight of a few windows being shuttered from inside several buildings, both residences and businesses. She shivers at the chill carried by the breeze and gathers her collar closer about her neck.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
During most of the trek, Othorion had kept his thoughts mostly to himself, following the group at an even pace. Listening intently to the conversation and appreciating all of the wise questions asked by his new compatriots. These were a capable lot, and they seemed enthused to help the mayor and the people of Jaekin against this Murder Court.
When he heard himself being referenced by the constable, he looked up at her and offered an easy smile, his eyes shifting towards the guards as he spoke, looking among them, trying to see if there was anything amiss amongst their group. "Two of my retainers are ordinary civilians, I'm afraid," he said in a somewhat distracted tone, "but my squire, Lucious, is quite capable if you wish to use him. Just keep him out of harm's way if you do. Waterdavian nobility can thorough in exacting their revenge."
During most of the trek, Othorion had kept his thoughts mostly to himself, following the group at an even pace. Listening intently to the conversation and appreciating all of the wise questions asked by his new compatriots. These were a capable lot, and they seemed enthused to help the mayor and the people of Jaekin against this Murder Court.
When he heard himself being referenced by the constable, he looked up at her and offered an easy smile, his eyes shifting towards the guards as he spoke, looking among them, trying to see if there was anything amiss amongst their group. "Two of my retainers are ordinary civilians, I'm afraid," he said in a somewhat distracted tone, "but my squire, Lucious, is quite capable if you wish to use him. Just keep him out of harm's way if you do. Waterdavian nobility can thorough in exacting their revenge."
Othorion notices nothing much untoward about the guards other than the fact that they seem rather rag-tag. Several are seated on the steps of the front entrance while others meander about the perimeter of the structure, and none seem very disciplined or well-armed. The noble drow is not always the most observant though, and tends not to rely on his skills of perception overly much.
Joy gave each of the guards they passed a bright smile and wave, wishing she could do more. Still, she knew from experience that a simple kind look really could make a difference. Othorion's offer of training from his squire for the town watch was encouraging. "And I can help any sick or injured you have. Oh, and I'll be doing morning prayers if anyone would like to join me! Up with the Morninglord, as they say."
He watched the guards milling about and gave a dissatisfied look towards them. Their lack of discipline was concerning, which brought back memories of his training. Years out on the courtyards and training grounds, being shouted at by the finest warriors and knights Waterdeep could get. Squiring for a rather rude and demanding knight, he remembered how the slightest slip of discipline was punished severely.
Seeing the guards as they were, his lips thinned slightly, but he could understand why they were thus. The high turnover must not have been easy to constantly train. He suspected, at this point the guards were being used for their numbers than their effectiveness. "I imagine the sooner we help this town, and the mayor, the sooner everyone will the better for it,"he mused aloud, "guards like these are a detriment to just about everyone."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Othorion Sarfir - Half-Drow Eldritch Knight - The Murder Court
Shaephina continued to walk in silence, her sharp eyes taking in every detail of the journey to the Townhall. She listened carefully to the conversation around her, noting the various dynamics at play within the group. The tension between the Constable's apparent frustration and the group's willingness to assist was palpable, but it was Joy's eagerness that truly caught Shae's attention. As the young cleric spoke about her willingness to help the sick and injured, and her offer to lead morning prayers to the Morninglord, Shaephina felt a pang of unease. The Morninglord's light was a stark contrast to the shadows that cloaked her own faith. Kiaransalee, the Lady of the Dead, was not a deity many would openly accept, especially not in a group that seemed so eager to spread warmth and healing.
Shaephina had long understood the complexities of her own faith. Vengeance, while often viewed as an evil pursuit, could also be a force for justice, for righting wrongs that others had allowed to fester. Not all aspects of Kiaransalee were shrouded in darkness, but she knew well enough to keep her beliefs close to her chest until she could gauge the reactions of her new companions. As they neared the Townhall, Shaephina turned to Joy, offering a small, sincere smile. "Your dedication to the Morninglord is admirable, Joy. I would be interested in joining you for your morning prayers. It is always enlightening to learn of different perspectives on the divine."
Her tone was warm, genuine even, though there was a hidden layer of calculation. Shaephina knew that by expressing interest, she could learn more about her companions and how they might react when her own faith inevitably came to light. For now, she would play along, observe, and keep her own secrets well-guarded.
He nodded in agreement. "The townspeople will be invaluable, indeed. They live here afterall." He turned to Kesh when he came and sat at their table and Othorion offered the dragonborn another friendly smile. "But, I have to admit, I am in favour of seeing how things unfold as well. This little venture could turn out to be quite exciting."
He caught the attention of the barkeep. "Ale, for the rest of us who don't have drinks, if you please," he said, before looking back at Kesh. His way of talking was strange, referring to himself in the third person. He'd seen individuals talk that way, but not often. He seemed genuine though, from what little he could gather. Not that he was the best judge of character or anything. He'd been deceived before. Far more than he would like to admit.
But he had a good feeling about Kesh, and the others present.
Othorion Sarfir - Half-Drow Eldritch Knight - The Murder Court
The hour draws nigh and you each have finished your refreshments and your small talk. The Olde Crow has grown more quiet with only a few patrons present besides your group, and the innkeep has stoked a fire to fend off the chill autumn air seeping its way through the cracks in the roughshod building. Most passersby in Jaekin consist of caravans and merchants picking up metals brought down from the mountains or lumber from the forest. A few supplies are regularly brought in for the residents here as well, and most of these travelers lay their heads at the hostel-style quarters of the caravansary just down the street from the inn.
A gust of chill air wafts over your table as the door creaks open and a blonde elven woman takes a few steps inside as the door shuts behind her. She's armed and dressed in mostly greys and blacks with a thick cloak drawn about her shoulders. A blue sash adorns her right hip which marks her as the constable of Jaekin to any with knowledge of such things. Her stern green eyes slowly look over those gathered here for a few moments as she stands in the doorway with one hand on her hip. "You're the ones the Mayor has summoned I take it?" Her voice is definitively Elven as the accent belays her struggle with the common tongue, and her tone is short and to the point as she taps the fingers of her other hand along the hilt of a rapier at her side. "I'm the Constable of Jaekin. The Mayor has sent me to fetch you to the Townhall."
Murder Court Discord OOC | Phandelver Discord OOC
Shaephina turned slightly as Kesh approached, taking in the dragonborn’s unusual manner of speech with a measured gaze. His third-person self-reference was intriguing, but she kept her reaction composed. With a small, polite nod, she responded, "Welcome, Kesh. We’ll see what this venture holds for all of us."
As the constable entered, Shae's attention shifted immediately to the elven woman. The atmosphere in the room grew more tense, signaling the end of their casual gathering. Shaephina rose from her seat, her crimson eyes locking onto the constable’s stern gaze. "We are," she replied with a steady tone, nodding slightly. "Lead the way."
She then glanced briefly at her companions, ensuring they were ready, before following the constable out. The time for idle talk was over; it was time to face whatever awaited them at the Townhall.
|| Myrla - Wood Elf Rogue - After the Fall || Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Trystane - Trollblood Lycanthrope - Vecna || Taiga - Genasi Fighter - Looking for Group || Riyphou - Loxodon Druid - Secrets || Tez - Half Elf Artificer - Looking for Group || Valerian - Pallid Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Zelaerys - Halfling/Celestial Divine Soul - NWN || Kesili - Human/Dhampir Monk - Witchwood || Trystane (main/gestalt) - Gestalt Trollblood - DOOM ||
The Dragonborn nods. "And it would seem the venture begins, he thinks. One wonders what fine riches or valuable materials he might find along the way." He downs half again of his refill before standing once more. He grabs his satchel and crossbow before proceeding, securing the former over his shoulder and the latter on his back.
He draws in a deep breath as a hiss before stepping out into the colder air. He misses the heat of his home, but fortune favors the bold. And he likes fortune.
"Good to meet you, Shaephina and Kesh." What an interesting group they'd make! Shaephina seemed wise and calm, while Kesh appeared self-assured. The Dragonborn's unique manner of speech interested her though it was a little confusing at first.
When the Constable arrived to pick them up, Joy quickly gulped down the rest of her drink before standing, not wanting any to go to waste. Fortunately, her sturdy constitution made her rather resilient against getting too inebriated. "Yes, let's see what the Mayor has to say. I have a few questions for him already."
As they headed towards the Townhall, Joy couldn't resist attempting to make pleasant small talk with the stern Constable. "So, what's your name? How long have you been the Constable here? It seems like it would be a nice, quiet home without the....well, you know."
He was enjoying his drink when the constable arrived. Upon hearing the door open, he turned to see the elf woman walk in, a stern look on her face, her overall demeanour that of someone was used to being obeyed and their commands followed. When she spoke, her thick elven accent broke through, informing them she was sent to fetch them for the mayor. That was all he needed to hear.
Downing the rest of his drink, he stood after Shaephina and Kesh, shifting the weight of the longsword at his hip so the scabbard wouldn't keep hitting his leg while he walked. Othorion made a slight flourish with his finely made cape. "Off we go, then," he said and followed the group out. Smirking at the way Joy was bombarding the constable with questions. He had a feeling she was going to be the life of their little group.
Othorion Sarfir - Half-Drow Eldritch Knight - The Murder Court
Jaekin has grown quiet as the sun hides its light below rock and wood. The half moon peaks its way from behind thin clouds in a dimly lit sky as you all leave The Olde Crow. The Constable's knee-high boots rap against the cobblestone interspersed with patches of muddy dirt paths. Her eyes reflect the moonlight and never divert from her forward gaze as she addresses the hexblade, "Arlayna Moonglade. I have served as Constable since Haelviird...ahem..Mayor Brodenbuck's election. Prior to that there was no rule of law in Jaekin, none worth mentioning anyway. 'Quiet' here usually means something sinister is afoot between the trees and mountain, you may rest assured of that." Arlayna continues on past the sparse dwellings and workshops that border the rough main thoroughfare through town until a long building facing down the main street comes into view. The townhall sits above most of the other buildings in town and even from this distance it seems as if all of Jaekin's town guard are posted around it.
Murder Court Discord OOC | Phandelver Discord OOC
Geren leans in towards the constable as the group walks.
"Since we're being hired to deal with the Murder Court any information you have on them could be useful. Or anything else strange going on."
His tone is congenial, but his eyes flick over the constable to better tell if she's lying about anything.
"That along with where the best place to get a bite to eat, I doubt any of us plan to live on trail rations while we're here after all."
The Constable cuts her green eyes at Geren and smirks, "If I had information I would not share it outside the pervue of Mayor Brodenbuck. Townhall is but a few paces away if your patience can withstand the journey. Strange happenings have filled this valley as long as any can recall. Of which sort would you care to hear tall tales?" The elf casts her gaze back toward the long building up the hill as a murder of ravens takes flight behind Townhall. The caws echo down the street as a peel of thunder rumbles low in the darkening clouds above.
Arlayna Moonglade furrows her brow and follows the flight pattern of the crows before focusing her attentions back to her destination. She had grown weary of the stream of 'adventurers' Haelviird had brought in over the past months and it was becoming more and more difficult for her to feign eagerness at the arrival of a fresh crop. If only she could find The Court herself, things would be made much simpler. If only any of the brave explorers had ever returned from this fool's errand...
Geren may make an Insight check with Advantage from his companions observing the conversation.
DC: 19
Murder Court Discord OOC | Phandelver Discord OOC
Shaephina walked in silence, her senses keenly attuned to the surroundings as they made their way to the Townhall. The sight of the guards posted around the building caught her attention, a small furrow forming between her brows. It seemed unusual for such a remote town, and the sight of the ravens taking flight only deepened her unease.
As they neared the Townhall, she finally broke her silence, her tone calm but direct. "You have quite the number of guards posted, Constable Moonglade. Are you expecting trouble?"
Her crimson eyes flicked toward the Townhall, then back to the constable, observing her response carefully. Shaephina wasn’t one to jump to conclusions, but the heavily guarded building suggested more than just a routine meeting.
|| Myrla - Wood Elf Rogue - After the Fall || Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Trystane - Trollblood Lycanthrope - Vecna || Taiga - Genasi Fighter - Looking for Group || Riyphou - Loxodon Druid - Secrets || Tez - Half Elf Artificer - Looking for Group || Valerian - Pallid Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Zelaerys - Halfling/Celestial Divine Soul - NWN || Kesili - Human/Dhampir Monk - Witchwood || Trystane (main/gestalt) - Gestalt Trollblood - DOOM ||
Geren tries to get a read on the constable.
23
Arlayna's chuckle is the first break in her demeanor and one that is reigned in quickly, "There is always the potential for trouble especially since Hael...the mayor has been openly defying The Court. You'll see soon enough," she nods to the sky and the ravens growing smaller as they fly across the light of the moon and toward the mountain peaks, "as the crows fly so follow the troubles. You can bet your coins there was something brewing this very night. I can only hope my guard, as poorly trained as they are, can continue to fend those troubles off a while longer. Maybe the lot of you will be the ones to find The Court."
Between Geren and Shae, you can sense the elf is hiding something. She knows more than she's letting on and the slight twist of her lip when she refused to share information about The Murder Court seemed to reveal she knows more about the mysterious group and its location that she is willing to share.
Murder Court Discord OOC | Phandelver Discord OOC
At her reference, the Alchemist cannot help but speak up, unnerved. "This one is confused. He sees a capable... er, warrior before him, yet you say your men are poorly trained. One does not think you are the type to shirk her duty." His voice quivers slightly. "Would you mean to say they die or quit too often to train right? Perhaps this one has misunderstood." The frigid air laps at the flesh beneath Kesh's scales, drawing soft puffs of breath from him as he warms the palms of his hands. He should have dressed warmer. Still, the implications being made serve to only chill him further, in ways even a roaring fire could not allay.
Joy reached to fiddle with her sunburst shaped holy symbol thoughtfully. So, it seemed like the Mayor expected some sort of retaliation for calling them here. "And, if you expect something...couldn't you spare a few of those guards to post around the rest of the town? Just to alert you if something happens. The Murder Court may not go after Hael directly but his people." She glanced through the street and between buildings, towards the dark sea of trees and then back at the Constable.
ooc: attempted Perception: 9
Arlayna stops short and turns to face the group still out of earshot from the townhall and her guard. She takes in a deep breath before speaking, "These men consist of a few townsfolk and caravan guards who'd either fallen out with their employers or offered a greater reward from the mayor. Their loyalties are shallow and the ones who desire to actually see Jaekin safe, the ones who call Jaekin home, are little more than miners and woodsmen. I do my best but what the Dragonborn speaks is true - the town guard turnover is higher than most. The dangers of this place, predicated by the whims of The Murder Court, hinder any training efforts I may purport." Her tone is one of annoyance and a twinge of despair. The Constable clearly has a daunting task set before her it seems. She looks to Joy, "Hostilities seem to be directed mostly at Mayor Brodenbuck...ever since he began defying our oppressors. If our numbers were greater, if our skills were greater, we could afford to stand sentinel around Jaekin. As it is, we are lucky if we can continue to defend the mayor and townhall from The Court's vile strategies." She stares at the group for just a moment sizing them up before turning on her heel and continuing onward towards the long building set up on the highest hill of Jaekin. "You'll all do well, I'm sure. Perhaps the drow's retainers can share their expertise with my men while they are in town? Any aid would be greatly appreciated." The last is almost uttered with an air of sarcasm and Arlayna trods ever closer to townhall adjusting the blade on her side along the way.
Joy notes nothing more than the empty streets of Jaekin, the mist clinging to the alleys and treelines, and the growing cloud cover that has now hidden the murder of crows flying away. She does catch sight of a few windows being shuttered from inside several buildings, both residences and businesses. She shivers at the chill carried by the breeze and gathers her collar closer about her neck.
Murder Court Discord OOC | Phandelver Discord OOC
During most of the trek, Othorion had kept his thoughts mostly to himself, following the group at an even pace. Listening intently to the conversation and appreciating all of the wise questions asked by his new compatriots. These were a capable lot, and they seemed enthused to help the mayor and the people of Jaekin against this Murder Court.
When he heard himself being referenced by the constable, he looked up at her and offered an easy smile, his eyes shifting towards the guards as he spoke, looking among them, trying to see if there was anything amiss amongst their group. "Two of my retainers are ordinary civilians, I'm afraid," he said in a somewhat distracted tone, "but my squire, Lucious, is quite capable if you wish to use him. Just keep him out of harm's way if you do. Waterdavian nobility can thorough in exacting their revenge."
Perception: 15
Othorion Sarfir - Half-Drow Eldritch Knight - The Murder Court
Othorion notices nothing much untoward about the guards other than the fact that they seem rather rag-tag. Several are seated on the steps of the front entrance while others meander about the perimeter of the structure, and none seem very disciplined or well-armed. The noble drow is not always the most observant though, and tends not to rely on his skills of perception overly much.
Murder Court Discord OOC | Phandelver Discord OOC
Joy gave each of the guards they passed a bright smile and wave, wishing she could do more. Still, she knew from experience that a simple kind look really could make a difference. Othorion's offer of training from his squire for the town watch was encouraging. "And I can help any sick or injured you have. Oh, and I'll be doing morning prayers if anyone would like to join me! Up with the Morninglord, as they say."
ooc: Insight on guards: 7
He watched the guards milling about and gave a dissatisfied look towards them. Their lack of discipline was concerning, which brought back memories of his training. Years out on the courtyards and training grounds, being shouted at by the finest warriors and knights Waterdeep could get. Squiring for a rather rude and demanding knight, he remembered how the slightest slip of discipline was punished severely.
Seeing the guards as they were, his lips thinned slightly, but he could understand why they were thus. The high turnover must not have been easy to constantly train. He suspected, at this point the guards were being used for their numbers than their effectiveness. "I imagine the sooner we help this town, and the mayor, the sooner everyone will the better for it," he mused aloud, "guards like these are a detriment to just about everyone."
Othorion Sarfir - Half-Drow Eldritch Knight - The Murder Court
Shaephina continued to walk in silence, her sharp eyes taking in every detail of the journey to the Townhall. She listened carefully to the conversation around her, noting the various dynamics at play within the group. The tension between the Constable's apparent frustration and the group's willingness to assist was palpable, but it was Joy's eagerness that truly caught Shae's attention. As the young cleric spoke about her willingness to help the sick and injured, and her offer to lead morning prayers to the Morninglord, Shaephina felt a pang of unease. The Morninglord's light was a stark contrast to the shadows that cloaked her own faith. Kiaransalee, the Lady of the Dead, was not a deity many would openly accept, especially not in a group that seemed so eager to spread warmth and healing.
Shaephina had long understood the complexities of her own faith. Vengeance, while often viewed as an evil pursuit, could also be a force for justice, for righting wrongs that others had allowed to fester. Not all aspects of Kiaransalee were shrouded in darkness, but she knew well enough to keep her beliefs close to her chest until she could gauge the reactions of her new companions. As they neared the Townhall, Shaephina turned to Joy, offering a small, sincere smile. "Your dedication to the Morninglord is admirable, Joy. I would be interested in joining you for your morning prayers. It is always enlightening to learn of different perspectives on the divine."
Her tone was warm, genuine even, though there was a hidden layer of calculation. Shaephina knew that by expressing interest, she could learn more about her companions and how they might react when her own faith inevitably came to light. For now, she would play along, observe, and keep her own secrets well-guarded.
|| Myrla - Wood Elf Rogue - After the Fall || Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Trystane - Trollblood Lycanthrope - Vecna || Taiga - Genasi Fighter - Looking for Group || Riyphou - Loxodon Druid - Secrets || Tez - Half Elf Artificer - Looking for Group || Valerian - Pallid Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Zelaerys - Halfling/Celestial Divine Soul - NWN || Kesili - Human/Dhampir Monk - Witchwood || Trystane (main/gestalt) - Gestalt Trollblood - DOOM ||