Zeke is happy to let Fae tuck into his shadow as he helps prep the wagons for departure. 'Fae I'm thinking you're best suited on the wagon for our travels - I'm assuming if we run into any difficulties you're skills are best deployed from a distance? I'm thinking Tarja and I can focus on keeping any danger at bay while the rest of you convince our assailants of the error of their ways.'
With Fae's permission, Zeke hands her up onto the wagon and helps her find a comfortable position that obscures her behind several sacks of flour, but still allows her to see out and respond to any danger that may present itself.
As he does, Fae gets a glimpse inside his voluminous cloak and sees that his apparent bulk isn't all muscle....
Far would nod to Zeke, “Yes, That would be correct. I am a spell caster.” She’d reach into the front of her cloak and pull out a violet crystal tied with black leather strapping from around her neck. At the top of the crystal where the leather meets the stone, it is knotted together with 2 black crow feathers. “Much like Elra’s holy symbol, this family heirloom is my arcane focus which assists me in channeling my spells.” The violet from the crystal matched the violet in her eyes.
Fae would happily accept Zeke’s assistance into the wagon and take her place in the space he fashioned for her. She’d smile with a nod, “Thank you.” She’d place her bag beside her to help take some of the weight off, though it’d still be slung on her shoulder.
Catching a glimpse inside Zeke’s cloak, suspicious it’s not all muscle, would cock her head a little in curiosity. Though, she’d just smile to him, “I appreciate your and Tarja’s watchful eyes on the road. I can’t say I’ve felt this confident on my travels in years.” She may even feel a little excitement beneath all her anxieties.
Tarja is all ready to go. She drops a quick word to Rosene before heading out:
Ya might want to be wary of snakes. I think there's a big 'un around here somewhere. If cats n' dogs, start to go missing, that's why, call the city guard and get 'em to help out.
She takes her place alongside the wagon, ready to go on.
I'm not much one for scrapping with bandits either, but I'll do what I can.
Loremaster Atlavast replies playfully "welllll, I could use some help transcribing some delicate old scrolls...""No child, it seems your time has come if He is sending you dreams that draw you away from us. Who am I to argue with that? I am but a humble servant of the knowledge He bestows. I do have one condition though, since you are still listening to this old man for the moment." He stands and walks her to his office. "You go with my blessing if you promise to take something with you." Atlavast opens a low drawer on his desk and reaches in deep, pulling out an item or two. He presents Elra with a neatly folded Cloak of Protection. "You are not the only one who set out to find their own truth's during their younger years. This was once mine." He also pulls a Potion of Healing out from behind his back and adds "oh, and one of these never hurts." He winks at her.
Atlavast slowly sits and clasps Elra on the shoulders. "Remember child, in venturing out it is not to show the world that you are the strongest, the fastest, or the bravest. You will only do great things if you are true to yourself. Show them who YOU are. If I had to guess, your strength comes from here, and here." He touches her on the temple, and then over her heart. "Thus if your wits tell you to run, you run. If they tell you to forge ahead and help others, then do so. And when others think something nigh impossible, you show them just how clever you are!" He smiles are her warmly, then stands and ushers her towards the door.
Before she is out the door he adds "oh Elra my dear, I may have been mistaken a moment ago. Perhaps you are the bravest."
----------------------------------------
Rosene looks at Tarja curiously but nods and smiles regarding the snake.
After Zeke rearranges the barrels and other cargo of the second wagon to create some space and defensive positions and then helps Fae up to ride, the wizard finds she is face to face with a familiar symbol. A single barrel has a very faded blue and white symbol on it, a part of it even missing altogether from a section of the barrel having been repaired. It is that of the Lionshield Coster.
At the same moment Finnan is atop the first wagon once again and calls back to Farnin "alrighty we're off." "You and your ugly mug had better keep up!" The wagons start rolling as Farnin replies "you know, that hurts brother." "I happen to think you are without a doubt the second best looking halfling this side of the Trackless Sea!" Farnin also turns to Zeke and confirms "oh, we got everyone, don't we?"
Responding to Tarja's concerns, Zekenods his head in agreement: 'I certainly hope we don't have any bandits to scrap with, in fact, I'm hoping you and our feathered friend can help us avoid them entirely - or at least ensure we don't stumble into an ambush. And if it does come down to a tangle, I somehow suspect that my sheer bulk will be outstripped by the damage our friends here on the wagon will be able to dish out. I figure if I can keep them safe long enough, they'll be able to handle any ruffians we may run into on the way.'
Confident in their marching order and plan, Zeke stands quietly at the very rear of the small caravan, his head on a slow swivel watching for anything out of the ordinary, eager to get them moving but content to wait for Elra to make it back and re-join them.
Perception 20
If he hadn't been consumed with his watchful waiting, Zeke might have marveled at how quickly he had absorbed all these strange people into his circle of protection. Just how desperately he had been seeking meaning in the lives of others, and how empty and lonely his world had become. But, being nothing more than a hulking demon-like monster, Zeke was freed from any such introspection.
Fae’s voice would pipe up from inside the wagon after Arvel and Ethan, “Yes we are waiting for TWO more! We can’t leave without Elra AND Vincent!” She’d remember Elra’s owl, they came as a pair.
You could hear her voice, but only those from the back of the wagon who were paying attention would be able to see Fae hunched over inspecting one of the barrels near her in the wagon.
Investigation: 5
Can I gather any other information from this barrel? What’s in it? Where it may have been loaded? Did it come from Yartar? What else is special about this Lion crested barrel?
(lol or I’ll just stare at it XD)
I may have to pick the brains of my comrades on this one. Elra or Zeke may have better eyes for this sort of thing?
Elra hugs him and says, "Thank you," before waving goodbye to everyone and dashing out of the House of Knowledge while trying to put the cloak on. Back over the dolphin bridge and to the tavern where the party was waiting. "Sorry I'm late, but I had to say goodbye to the Loremaster before leaving. I didn't hold us up did I?" Vincent hops from Elra's shoulder to gripping onto one of the carts.
Fae would sit back up upon hearing Elra’s voice, her head peaking up over the contents of the wagon. She’d throw a hand up to wave at Elra, “Just in time Elra! And once you’re all settled in, I was wondering if I can run a thought by you, and maybe the others as well.” She was referring to her barrel ‘friend’ she was attempting to inspect.
Zeke nods as Elra rejoins the group. 'Good, we're all here now and ready to move out Mr. Finnan.Elra, would Vincent be willing to help scout out ahead of us as we move? His eyes are better than mine and I'd feel better with knowing we had a bit of air cover as we move.'
"Huh," Elra turns to Zeke, then back to Vincent. "Oh Ya! He'd be happy to help out. I'm going to have to sit in the cart though so I can see what he sees without tripping over anything. If that makes any sense."
The wagons begin to move down the bumpy streets of Neverwinter and eventually make their way out the southern gate onto the High Road. Finnan yells at pedestrians to not be foolish and get out of the way of his girls the whole way, making sure to fill any remaining silence with insults and jokes for his brother. Things quiet down a bit once they are on the road and there is less traffic for the halfling to bark at.
Fae inspects the barrel along the way and finds it to be indeed a very mundane piece of cargo. The smell and a few flecks of scales near the top rim indicate that it is surely salted and preserved fish. The most recent marking on it is just a powdery white mark easily obscured with a finger and making up a three digit number, 203. One might think it a mere coincidence that this familiar symbol is present here, while others might think more of it, especially those putting their faith in the Gods to guide them.
Progress on the road is slow but steady with the oxen pulling such a large load, and thus the ride is bumpy but not as loud as could be at a faster rate of travel. The sun shines high in the clear, mid-day sky but darker clouds can be seen gathering far to the south. Finnan and Farnin tell you they plan to drive the oxen until dusk today, and spend the entirety of the following day heading south on the High Road, leaving them right near the Triboar Trail to start day three (the second full day). They'll then make a hard push east up the Triboar Trail and then south to Phandalin all in a day if they can make it as the trail is rough and more dangerous than the High Road, and is thus not ideal for spending the night in the wilds. They do also admit, however, that they just work here, and you all must be in charge with Gundren nowhere to be seen.
.Tarja walks contentedly alongside the wagons. It’s good to have some open air after the crowded city. Sometimes she veers off to the side and walks along the road rather than on it, for a stretch. The oxen also seem to be in good cheer.
She wouldn’t mind spending an extra night in the wilds, so she doesn’t see the need to drive extra hard on the third day. A lot can change in a few days though; the halfling plan is fine for now. The clouds in the south are looking pretty ominous.
Once they were well on their way and settled into the start of their journey, Fae would allow her hood to fall off her head from the bumpy ride. She'd look up to feel the sun on her face, soaking it in. It was nice to be away from the crowds and to have made it through another city trip without being recognized. Eventually another bump in the road would bring Fae back to the present. "Right! I did say I wanted to ask you something." And with a dimpled smile now visible, Fae would reach for her black leather bound journal. She'd use one of the thin leather book markers to turn the pages to the near back of the book where she drew the lion symbol back at the inn. From what she could remember from her dream, and from what she was able to gather from her barrel inspection, Fae had jotted down a couple notes below the picture of the crest.
[DREAM] The Lionshield Coster Graywind Family Merchant Company Based in Yartar, the Savage Frontier
[WAGON SUPPLIES] Barrel of salted preserved fish? 203
She'd simply just open up the conversation with one question "Is this familiar to you?" Fae would look it over her notes once more before offering her journal to Elra to look over. She'd encourage the others to take a look along with Elra. If Fae's journal gets passed amongst her friends, the sunlight would catch the worn leather binding just right, revealing a feather crest that's also repeated on the front and back of the leather book. She trusted them to handle it with care.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Zeke too is happy to be out of the city and moving. There is a safety in movement that helps calm the constant nagging fear that eats at him day in and day out. The fear that's only made worse by his dreams. He walks easily behind the wagons, occasionally stopping and dropping off the road to watch their backtrail, occasionally checking in with Tarja in the front and Vincent through Elra overhead. Even as the sun rises overhead, he keeps his cloak on, but lets his hood slide off his head - showing his pale grey skin and nubby horns sprouting from his forehead. With his cloak pushed back, Zeke's sheer size is evident - his chest broader than the halflings are tall and rippling with muscles.
Stealth to hide and watch backtrail: 13
Perception 14
While a night in the wilds may sound lovely to the Druid in the group, Zeke is anxious to keep them moving forward towards Phandalin and their new employer. He worries about how this group will handle themselves in a dust-up. They all seem lovely and talented - but Zeke has known far too many lovely and talented people who fell once the blades came out and the arrows started flying. He doesn't want to see that happen again.
Three hours have passed since leaving Waterdeep and all, save for the chatty halflings, has been quiet. Zeke sees no trouble from behind, but soon Vincent and Elra report a rider approaching quickly from the south.
Still plenty of time to RP whatever you all like, including any replies to Fae's inquiry. Not skipping past it, such RP can happen at any time while on the road. I don't anticipate your imminent demise for at least another hour or two in game time! ;)
Zeke is happy to let Fae tuck into his shadow as he helps prep the wagons for departure. 'Fae I'm thinking you're best suited on the wagon for our travels - I'm assuming if we run into any difficulties you're skills are best deployed from a distance? I'm thinking Tarja and I can focus on keeping any danger at bay while the rest of you convince our assailants of the error of their ways.'
With Fae's permission, Zeke hands her up onto the wagon and helps her find a comfortable position that obscures her behind several sacks of flour, but still allows her to see out and respond to any danger that may present itself.
As he does, Fae gets a glimpse inside his voluminous cloak and sees that his apparent bulk isn't all muscle....
"So you're not going to dig your heels in and try to find something for me to do so I have to stay here?" Elra asks.
Elra Skylash - Human Cleric | Vanzaren Tanidoni - Half Elf Wizard
Mindartis Liadon - Eladrin Barbarian | Naivara Siannodel - Half Elf Ranger
Arrila Evenwood - Half Elf Paladin | Callaphe of Setessa - Human Rogue
Katernin Nemetsk - Aasimar Cleric | Melody - Tiefling Bard
Far would nod to Zeke, “Yes, That would be correct. I am a spell caster.” She’d reach into the front of her cloak and pull out a violet crystal tied with black leather strapping from around her neck. At the top of the crystal where the leather meets the stone, it is knotted together with 2 black crow feathers. “Much like Elra’s holy symbol, this family heirloom is my arcane focus which assists me in channeling my spells.” The violet from the crystal matched the violet in her eyes.
Fae would happily accept Zeke’s assistance into the wagon and take her place in the space he fashioned for her. She’d smile with a nod, “Thank you.” She’d place her bag beside her to help take some of the weight off, though it’d still be slung on her shoulder.
Catching a glimpse inside Zeke’s cloak, suspicious it’s not all muscle, would cock her head a little in curiosity. Though, she’d just smile to him, “I appreciate your and Tarja’s watchful eyes on the road. I can’t say I’ve felt this confident on my travels in years.” She may even feel a little excitement beneath all her anxieties.
just an unstable unicorn.
Tarja is all ready to go. She drops a quick word to Rosene before heading out:
Ya might want to be wary of snakes. I think there's a big 'un around here somewhere. If cats n' dogs, start to go missing, that's why, call the city guard and get 'em to help out.
She takes her place alongside the wagon, ready to go on.
I'm not much one for scrapping with bandits either, but I'll do what I can.
Loremaster Atlavast replies playfully "welllll, I could use some help transcribing some delicate old scrolls..." "No child, it seems your time has come if He is sending you dreams that draw you away from us. Who am I to argue with that? I am but a humble servant of the knowledge He bestows. I do have one condition though, since you are still listening to this old man for the moment." He stands and walks her to his office. "You go with my blessing if you promise to take something with you." Atlavast opens a low drawer on his desk and reaches in deep, pulling out an item or two. He presents Elra with a neatly folded Cloak of Protection. "You are not the only one who set out to find their own truth's during their younger years. This was once mine." He also pulls a Potion of Healing out from behind his back and adds "oh, and one of these never hurts." He winks at her.
Atlavast slowly sits and clasps Elra on the shoulders. "Remember child, in venturing out it is not to show the world that you are the strongest, the fastest, or the bravest. You will only do great things if you are true to yourself. Show them who YOU are. If I had to guess, your strength comes from here, and here." He touches her on the temple, and then over her heart. "Thus if your wits tell you to run, you run. If they tell you to forge ahead and help others, then do so. And when others think something nigh impossible, you show them just how clever you are!" He smiles are her warmly, then stands and ushers her towards the door.
Before she is out the door he adds "oh Elra my dear, I may have been mistaken a moment ago. Perhaps you are the bravest."
----------------------------------------
Rosene looks at Tarja curiously but nods and smiles regarding the snake.
After Zeke rearranges the barrels and other cargo of the second wagon to create some space and defensive positions and then helps Fae up to ride, the wizard finds she is face to face with a familiar symbol. A single barrel has a very faded blue and white symbol on it, a part of it even missing altogether from a section of the barrel having been repaired. It is that of the Lionshield Coster.
At the same moment Finnan is atop the first wagon once again and calls back to Farnin "alrighty we're off." "You and your ugly mug had better keep up!" The wagons start rolling as Farnin replies "you know, that hurts brother." "I happen to think you are without a doubt the second best looking halfling this side of the Trackless Sea!" Farnin also turns to Zeke and confirms "oh, we got everyone, don't we?"
“One straggler who will be here in a moment.”
DCI: 3319125026
Ethan looks mildly concerned as Finnan gets ready to leave, looking back the way that Elra run off.
As Arvel informs the brothers that not every one is quite here yet, Ethan adds,
"Yeah we cant leave without Elra.
"I would hate to leave her behind, we have only just begun to explore the knowledge we may be able to learn from one another."
Ethan turns back keeping an eye out for Elra.
David Gearlock | Human | Artificer | Revenge Heist
Knox | Warforged | Cleric | Shadowthorn's Out of the Abyss
Responding to Tarja's concerns, Zeke nods his head in agreement: 'I certainly hope we don't have any bandits to scrap with, in fact, I'm hoping you and our feathered friend can help us avoid them entirely - or at least ensure we don't stumble into an ambush. And if it does come down to a tangle, I somehow suspect that my sheer bulk will be outstripped by the damage our friends here on the wagon will be able to dish out. I figure if I can keep them safe long enough, they'll be able to handle any ruffians we may run into on the way.'
Confident in their marching order and plan, Zeke stands quietly at the very rear of the small caravan, his head on a slow swivel watching for anything out of the ordinary, eager to get them moving but content to wait for Elra to make it back and re-join them.
Perception 20
If he hadn't been consumed with his watchful waiting, Zeke might have marveled at how quickly he had absorbed all these strange people into his circle of protection. Just how desperately he had been seeking meaning in the lives of others, and how empty and lonely his world had become. But, being nothing more than a hulking demon-like monster, Zeke was freed from any such introspection.
Fae’s voice would pipe up from inside the wagon after Arvel and Ethan, “Yes we are waiting for TWO more! We can’t leave without Elra AND Vincent!” She’d remember Elra’s owl, they came as a pair.
You could hear her voice, but only those from the back of the wagon who were paying attention would be able to see Fae hunched over inspecting one of the barrels near her in the wagon.
Investigation: 5
Can I gather any other information from this barrel? What’s in it? Where it may have been loaded? Did it come from Yartar? What else is special about this Lion crested barrel?
(lol or I’ll just stare at it XD)
I may have to pick the brains of my comrades on this one. Elra or Zeke may have better eyes for this sort of thing?
just an unstable unicorn.
Elra hugs him and says, "Thank you," before waving goodbye to everyone and dashing out of the House of Knowledge while trying to put the cloak on. Back over the dolphin bridge and to the tavern where the party was waiting. "Sorry I'm late, but I had to say goodbye to the Loremaster before leaving. I didn't hold us up did I?" Vincent hops from Elra's shoulder to gripping onto one of the carts.
Elra Skylash - Human Cleric | Vanzaren Tanidoni - Half Elf Wizard
Mindartis Liadon - Eladrin Barbarian | Naivara Siannodel - Half Elf Ranger
Arrila Evenwood - Half Elf Paladin | Callaphe of Setessa - Human Rogue
Katernin Nemetsk - Aasimar Cleric | Melody - Tiefling Bard
Fae would sit back up upon hearing Elra’s voice, her head peaking up over the contents of the wagon. She’d throw a hand up to wave at Elra, “Just in time Elra! And once you’re all settled in, I was wondering if I can run a thought by you, and maybe the others as well.” She was referring to her barrel ‘friend’ she was attempting to inspect.
just an unstable unicorn.
"Oh I like thoughts, What is it? Abstract, sureal, funny, sad? Something in between? Oh!" she looks excited, "is it an idea?"
Elra Skylash - Human Cleric | Vanzaren Tanidoni - Half Elf Wizard
Mindartis Liadon - Eladrin Barbarian | Naivara Siannodel - Half Elf Ranger
Arrila Evenwood - Half Elf Paladin | Callaphe of Setessa - Human Rogue
Katernin Nemetsk - Aasimar Cleric | Melody - Tiefling Bard
Zeke nods as Elra rejoins the group. 'Good, we're all here now and ready to move out Mr. Finnan. Elra, would Vincent be willing to help scout out ahead of us as we move? His eyes are better than mine and I'd feel better with knowing we had a bit of air cover as we move.'
"Huh," Elra turns to Zeke, then back to Vincent. "Oh Ya! He'd be happy to help out. I'm going to have to sit in the cart though so I can see what he sees without tripping over anything. If that makes any sense."
Elra Skylash - Human Cleric | Vanzaren Tanidoni - Half Elf Wizard
Mindartis Liadon - Eladrin Barbarian | Naivara Siannodel - Half Elf Ranger
Arrila Evenwood - Half Elf Paladin | Callaphe of Setessa - Human Rogue
Katernin Nemetsk - Aasimar Cleric | Melody - Tiefling Bard
The wagons begin to move down the bumpy streets of Neverwinter and eventually make their way out the southern gate onto the High Road. Finnan yells at pedestrians to not be foolish and get out of the way of his girls the whole way, making sure to fill any remaining silence with insults and jokes for his brother. Things quiet down a bit once they are on the road and there is less traffic for the halfling to bark at.
Fae inspects the barrel along the way and finds it to be indeed a very mundane piece of cargo. The smell and a few flecks of scales near the top rim indicate that it is surely salted and preserved fish. The most recent marking on it is just a powdery white mark easily obscured with a finger and making up a three digit number, 203. One might think it a mere coincidence that this familiar symbol is present here, while others might think more of it, especially those putting their faith in the Gods to guide them.
Progress on the road is slow but steady with the oxen pulling such a large load, and thus the ride is bumpy but not as loud as could be at a faster rate of travel. The sun shines high in the clear, mid-day sky but darker clouds can be seen gathering far to the south. Finnan and Farnin tell you they plan to drive the oxen until dusk today, and spend the entirety of the following day heading south on the High Road, leaving them right near the Triboar Trail to start day three (the second full day). They'll then make a hard push east up the Triboar Trail and then south to Phandalin all in a day if they can make it as the trail is rough and more dangerous than the High Road, and is thus not ideal for spending the night in the wilds. They do also admit, however, that they just work here, and you all must be in charge with Gundren nowhere to be seen.
The map again:
.Tarja walks contentedly alongside the wagons. It’s good to have some open air after the crowded city. Sometimes she veers off to the side and walks along the road rather than on it, for a stretch. The oxen also seem to be in good cheer.
She wouldn’t mind spending an extra night in the wilds, so she doesn’t see the need to drive extra hard on the third day. A lot can change in a few days though; the halfling plan is fine for now. The clouds in the south are looking pretty ominous.
Once they were well on their way and settled into the start of their journey, Fae would allow her hood to fall off her head from the bumpy ride. She'd look up to feel the sun on her face, soaking it in. It was nice to be away from the crowds and to have made it through another city trip without being recognized. Eventually another bump in the road would bring Fae back to the present. "Right! I did say I wanted to ask you something." And with a dimpled smile now visible, Fae would reach for her black leather bound journal. She'd use one of the thin leather book markers to turn the pages to the near back of the book where she drew the lion symbol back at the inn. From what she could remember from her dream, and from what she was able to gather from her barrel inspection, Fae had jotted down a couple notes below the picture of the crest.
[DREAM]
The Lionshield Coster
Graywind Family
Merchant Company
Based in Yartar, the Savage Frontier
[WAGON SUPPLIES]
Barrel of salted preserved fish?
203
She'd simply just open up the conversation with one question "Is this familiar to you?" Fae would look it over her notes once more before offering her journal to Elra to look over. She'd encourage the others to take a look along with Elra. If Fae's journal gets passed amongst her friends, the sunlight would catch the worn leather binding just right, revealing a feather crest that's also repeated on the front and back of the leather book. She trusted them to handle it with care.
just an unstable unicorn.
Zeke too is happy to be out of the city and moving. There is a safety in movement that helps calm the constant nagging fear that eats at him day in and day out. The fear that's only made worse by his dreams. He walks easily behind the wagons, occasionally stopping and dropping off the road to watch their backtrail, occasionally checking in with Tarja in the front and Vincent through Elra overhead. Even as the sun rises overhead, he keeps his cloak on, but lets his hood slide off his head - showing his pale grey skin and nubby horns sprouting from his forehead. With his cloak pushed back, Zeke's sheer size is evident - his chest broader than the halflings are tall and rippling with muscles.
Stealth to hide and watch backtrail: 13
Perception 14
While a night in the wilds may sound lovely to the Druid in the group, Zeke is anxious to keep them moving forward towards Phandalin and their new employer. He worries about how this group will handle themselves in a dust-up. They all seem lovely and talented - but Zeke has known far too many lovely and talented people who fell once the blades came out and the arrows started flying. He doesn't want to see that happen again.
Three hours have passed since leaving Waterdeep and all, save for the chatty halflings, has been quiet. Zeke sees no trouble from behind, but soon Vincent and Elra report a rider approaching quickly from the south.
Still plenty of time to RP whatever you all like, including any replies to Fae's inquiry. Not skipping past it, such RP can happen at any time while on the road. I don't anticipate your imminent demise for at least another hour or two in game time! ;)
Arvel lazes indolently on the lead cart, occasionally chatting and joking with Finnan.
DCI: 3319125026