This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
As soon as she sees that Beorn has been thrown, Famh carefully ceases any earth moving she had already begun; not suddenly ending it if that would look suspicious but rather tapering off quickly but naturally. If she had not begun casting, of course, she does not even start. Rather, she shifts herself forward and continues her pretence of intoxication while actually observing the whole of her surroundings with focused attention to be ready for whatever may ensue.
==================
Perception 11
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Fergus trails after Almeric a few feet behind and to his right in an attempt to show servitude and offer some level of protection. He silently mimics Sir Almeric's movements.
Fergus eyes the hounds back for a moment before lowering his eyes as the Baron glances at him before addressing Sir Almeric. Fergus grows nervous, he assumed he would be all but invisible to these nobles. He looks the old man up and down in response to his whisper to see if he recognises him or if there was some insignia he should be wary of.
Not feeling like there was much of a choice he nods to the old man before following Sir Almeric's lead to speak with the Baron privately.
(Investigation of Old Man: 23)
( The old man appears to be left handed and his fingertips carry the stain of ink, tucked into the belt of his tunic is a vellum scroll and he wears an ivory pendant in the shape of an oak leaf around his neck on a leather throng. There is an air of power about him despite his frail somewhat delicate build.)
Almeric strides into the private chamber, relief and excitement rushing through his fatigued body. He waves Fergus to follow him! They had got here first, out-foxing Beorn and getting Aldred alone in his chamber. Now the doors of the hall were sealed until Almeric had given testimony and gives his best chance to inform and persuade the Baron of the truth. Almeric does his best in his exhausted state to recount everything clearly, concisely and in good order.
Almeric whispers to Fergus as they enter. "Sing up if mis-remember, forget, and or get anything wrong, will you?"(HELP Action from Fergus? Reducing DIS to a straight roll?)
Here are the highlights of Almeric's testimony to Aldred
An unexpected duty of honour found Almeric in command of the Dayne Retinue.
Beorn's disrespectful behaviour when recruiting for the mission, his low regard for the welfare of Harold the Tax Collector and lack of concern for the lost Taxes.
All that was important to Beorn is a Prize Sword gifted to Alcuin from Beorn, which had been entrusted to Harold and was lost.
Despite his resource, Beorn chose to send sell sword in this mission, which actually turned out to be very dangerous!
Harold the Tax Collector was seen riding at the gallop, pursued by two horseman with beards on heavy horse (the 2 Men-at-Arms with Beorn are the prime suspects)
Harold rode too close to Hobs Dell, was thrown by his horse over the iron fence and later killed by the Revenant Tuannon Dur. Eye witnesses available for questioning.
Harold's horse was recovered but the Taxes were stolen (by the 2 Men-at-Arms). Even if Beorn didn't order or know of his Men's actions, he is still responsible for them.
Harold's last act was to identify the Prize Sword he bore as important. He died in Hobs Dell protecting it.
The Prize Sword is very expensive and pretty, but poorly balanced and not made for combat. Evidence #1 Allow Aldred to examine it closely before continuing.
The Prize Sword contains a secret compartment in the hilt, where a secret message was concealed. This is in Beorn's own hand. Evidence #2
I had my scribe, Fergus, copy it just in case. You can compare the handwriting and see Beorn's own hand. Evidence #3
The text is most alarming, naming Beorn as Baron in waiting, with Alcuin his lapdog, supported by Montombre, Grissaille and Ulric? Evidence #2
Alcuin was to take control of the Castle when the rest are out on the Harvest Hunt. Very sadly, Aldred will die, mauled to death by a wild boar or some such.
As a Gentleman, a member of this family and a Knight Capellar, this is my testimony. Primary Statement.
The other members of the Dayne Retinue are in the village, who volunteered to slow Beorn and give me time to get here safely. He has been tracking us for two days.
Beorn hunted us like foxes, paying informants, employing spies and using his Men-at-Arms to trap us. It was my local geography and expert scout that got us here safe.
Beorn, Alcuin and none of their men can be trusted. We can stand will you, I have 5 others in the village, and are ready to serve.
You must form a Court of High Justice to investigate this further, my lord.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Cainneach is fully dazed at this point, his normally alert self all but oblivious to what is going on with Beorn and his riders. When he snaps out of it, he sees that Thatch and Famh have created wonderful diversions that have both slowed and angered Beorn. Thatch slinks off into the shadows, while Famh is doing a bang up job impersonating a drunk. "Has she ever been drunk?", he absentmindedly wonders. Ori and Tana don't seem to be too bothered by what is transpiring, so he shakes them both and hisses, "Let's get out of here! We should make our way to Aldred's in case things go poorly for Fergus and Almeric." He attempts to follow Thatch's lead, while routing the others with him.
Already prepped to move Ori follows Cainneach and Tana towards the house gate but accidentally kicks over a basket of turnips sitting outside the drinking hall. Rising Beorn sees him, though his men do not busy as they are assisting Beorn to rise.
Famh and Thatch so far have gone unnoticed, Beorn stares after the trio for a moment calculating that if Almeric is not with them he must already be within, he rounded on his men.
" They're already here, only reason for this much haste is if they have it...."
" Capellers probably already got the old wolfs ear..."
" Lets go!"
Beorn turned and made to mount up as his men did the same....
( Note the Housegate into the Keep is too far away and slightly around a bend from the main road so the guard there has seen none of this so far.)
Almeric strides into the private chamber, relief and excitement rushing through his fatigued body. He waves Fergus to follow him! They had got here first, out-foxing Beorn and getting Aldred alone in his chamber. Now the doors of the hall were sealed until Almeric had given testimony and gives his best chance to inform and persuade the Baron of the truth. Almeric does his best in his exhausted state to recount everything clearly, concisely and in good order.
Almeric whispers to Fergus as they enter. "Sing up if mis-remember, forget, and or get anything wrong, will you?"(HELP Action from Fergus? Reducing DIS to a straight roll?)
Here are the highlights of Almeric's testimony to Aldred
An unexpected duty of honour found Almeric in command of the Dayne Retinue.
Beorn's disrespectful behaviour when recruiting for the mission, his low regard for the welfare of Harold the Tax Collector and lack of concern for the lost Taxes.
All that was important to Beorn is a Prize Sword gifted to Alcuin from Beorn, which had been entrusted to Harold and was lost.
Despite his resource, Beorn chose to send sell sword in this mission, which actually turned out to be very dangerous!
Harold the Tax Collector was seen riding at the gallop, pursued by two horseman with beards on heavy horse (the 2 Men-at-Arms with Beorn are the prime suspects)
Harold rode too close to Hobs Dell, was thrown by his horse over the iron fence and later killed by the Revenant Tuannon Dur. Eye witnesses available for questioning.
Harold's horse was recovered but the Taxes were stolen (by the 2 Men-at-Arms). Even if Beorn didn't order or know of his Men's actions, he is still responsible for them.
Harold's last act was to identify the Prize Sword he bore as important. He died in Hobs Dell protecting it.
The Prize Sword is very expensive and pretty, but poorly balanced and not made for combat. Evidence #1 Allow Aldred to examine it closely before continuing.
The Prize Sword contains a secret compartment in the hilt, where a secret message was concealed. This is in Beorn's own hand. Evidence #2
I had my scribe, Fergus, copy it just in case. You can compare the handwriting and see Beorn's own hand. Evidence #3
The text is most alarming, naming Beorn as Baron in waiting, with Alcuin his lapdog, supported by Montombre, Grissaille and Ulric? Evidence #2
Alcuin was to take control of the Castle when the rest are out on the Harvest Hunt. Very sadly, Aldred will die, mauled to death by a wild boar or some such.
As a Gentleman, a member of this family and a Knight Capellar, this is my testimony. Primary Statement.
The other members of the Dayne Retinue are in the village, who volunteered to slow Beorn and give me time to get here safely. He has been tracking us for two days.
Beorn hunted us like foxes, paying informants, employing spies and using his Men-at-Arms to trap us. It was my local geography and expert scout that got us here safe.
Beorn, Alcuin and none of their men can be trusted. We can stand will you, I have 5 others in the village, and are ready to serve.
You must form a Court of High Justice to investigate this further, my lord.
PERSUASION = 18
( Assuming Help from Fergus as thats why he's here.)
As he listens Baron Aldred inspects both the sword and the hidden missive before passing both to the grey one beside him to examine.
" I know Beorns hand well enough, sadly this is indeed his."
" Alcuin while no doubt the intended recipient I cannot say for sure if he is truly involved or if this missive is an attempt to approach or involve him more fully....his brothers involvement will necessitate his removal regardless."
" The robbery and death of Harald is tragic news....Harald rode at my fathers side back when he still wore his maille. That you have brought his body will be a great burden off his familys shoulders at least they have someone to bury. Though you do not believe that Beorn had him murdered but it was rather misadventure after the robbery?"
" Well.....it is not the first time this year that Montombre or Grisaille have put their hand in to see me off........Ulric is new though. I wonder if that was presumed or confirmed I haven't troubled the old recluse for many a year."
" Myrddin? Have you had dealings with Ulric before?"
" Many years ago, milord. A cantankerous old hermit.....though not without power. Its concerning if his interests do align with the others. I'll send a query.......politely."
Baron Aldred nodded, " Thankyou for bringing this to me swiftly and at personal risk. Feel free to take lodgings and refreshment and have your household recorded in ledger so they may come and go as they wish."
" Do you have other business at the moment or are you at leisure.? "
" Now I have letters of intent to write requesting Beorn present himself promptly.........I suppose I must also inform the bishop....", he rubbed his temples.
Seeing Beorn suddenly focus on the group and call his men, Famh realizes the companions have been discovered. "Shite, the feartie nyaff's spotted us!", she hisses to Cainneach before shifting to action. As she intended to do before, she uses her drunken act to conceal the subtle gestures and words she is beginning to learn suffice for the lesser magics. Instead of a trench to trip Beorn's horse, she improvises on the idea she had before of an underground stream by creating a muffled, subterranean-sounding gurgling, and then churning up the road before Beorn into the difficult and boggy-seeming terrain that one would expect had that in fact occured with the magic she had planned to use before. "Buaidh no bas", she says with satisfaction before quieting down and slipping off to the side in the hope to inconspicuously follow Beorn even as he follows the others.
Ori allowed himself to be pulled back to slink away against his better judgment, he didn't feel comfortable with the others in staying out there without support incase things went downhill. But trying to keep an eye on the unfolding situation instead of getting away caused Ori to stumble a bit into turnips. At least it wasn't a pile of cowbells! He snuck about with Tana and Cainneach unsure of where they planned to go, Almeric? A tavern? Ori wasn't good at blending into the crowd, just the opposite really. "Well that was as smooth as a cats tongue. We probably should separate ourselves too much incase they need an extra hand or two."
Already prepped to move Ori follows Cainneach and Tana towards the house gate but accidentally kicks over a basket of turnips sitting outside the drinking hall. Rising Beorn sees him, though his men do not busy as they are assisting Beorn to rise.
Famh and Thatch so far have gone unnoticed, Beorn stares after the trio for a moment calculating that if Almeric is not with them he must already be within, he rounded on his men.
" They're already here, only reason for this much haste is if they have it...."
" Capellers probably already got the old wolfs ear..."
" Lets go!"
Beorn turned and made to mount up as his men did the same....
( Note the Housegate into the Keep is too far away and slightly around a bend from the main road so the guard there has seen none of this so far.)
If Cainneach has a sight line to Beorn, he will attempt to read his lips (Observant). Seems like a long shot, especially in his state of exhaustion, but it seems like a good idea. (Per the text, only being able to see the creature's mouth is required, but I'll roll Perception as well, just in case. Still Exhausted, of course.)
Ori allowed himself to be pulled back to slink away against his better judgment, he didn't feel comfortable with the others in staying out there without support incase things went downhill. But trying to keep an eye on the unfolding situation instead of getting away caused Ori to stumble a bit into turnips. At least it wasn't a pile of cowbells! He snuck about with Tana and Cainneach unsure of where they planned to go, Almeric? A tavern? Ori wasn't good at blending into the crowd, just the opposite really. "Well that was as smooth as a cats tongue. We probably should separate ourselves too much incase they need an extra hand or two."
While marvelling at Famh's next arcane display, Cainneach hears Ori's remark. "Good idea, especially since by the looks of it, Beorn may have made us. Best to pick up the pace if we're to help Almeric and Fergus!"
Baron Aldred nodded, " Thankyou for bringing this to me swiftly and at personal risk. Feel free to take lodgings and refreshment and have your household recorded in ledger so they may come and go as they wish."
" Do you have other business at the moment or are you at leisure.? "
" Now I have letters of intent to write requesting Beorn present himself promptly.........I suppose I must also inform the bishop....", he rubbed his temples.
Almeric breathed out in relief and sadness at the words of the Baron, but then breathed in sharply, realising the job was not done.
"My lord, I do have pressing business which can be of further assistance to you. Beorn is certainly outside the castle right now, probably murdering my Retinue as we speak. They volunteered to stay behind and slow him to give me more time to get to you safely. Lord, give me some horseman and I'll bring him straight back."
Almeric bows and makes to leave the private chamber, then remembers something. "Also, there is a less pressing matter for your attention, regarding Le Cloche at Maiden's Vale." Almeric passes Sir Valor's written testimony to Aldred. "Other members of my Retinue can give eye witness testimony of Le Cloche's behaviour and we discuss this later."
Fergus remained silent unless signalled to contribute in order to corroborate Sir Almeric's testimony.
Relieved that the Baron believed them, Fergus nodded in agreement with Sir Almeric on returning to the others. He was less interested in apprehending the traitor, more so he wanted to ensure the others were brought to safety under the Baron's protection.
Thatch holds his breath and freezes in place as Beorn is unhorsed and lands almost on top of him. Thankfully, the knight and his retinue did not notice the stableboy. As they remounted and headed toward the gatehouse, Thatch rose and followed close behind, trying to catch up to Cainneach, Ori and the others. He hoped they delayed Sir Beorn long enough to give Sir Americ a chance to present his case, but he wanted to be close just in case.
Already prepped to move Ori follows Cainneach and Tana towards the house gate but accidentally kicks over a basket of turnips sitting outside the drinking hall. Rising Beorn sees him, though his men do not busy as they are assisting Beorn to rise.
Famh and Thatch so far have gone unnoticed, Beorn stares after the trio for a moment calculating that if Almeric is not with them he must already be within, he rounded on his men.
" They're already here, only reason for this much haste is if they have it...."
" Capellers probably already got the old wolfs ear..."
" Lets go!"
Beorn turned and made to mount up as his men did the same....
( Note the Housegate into the Keep is too far away and slightly around a bend from the main road so the guard there has seen none of this so far.)
Seeing Beorn suddenly focus on the group and call his men, Famh realizes the companions have been discovered. "Shite, the feartie nyaff's spotted us!", she hisses to Cainneach before shifting to action. As she intended to do before, she uses her drunken act to conceal the subtle gestures and words she is beginning to learn suffice for the lesser magics. Instead of a trench to trip Beorn's horse, she improvises on the idea she had before of an underground stream by creating a muffled, subterranean-sounding gurgling, and then churning up the road before Beorn into the difficult and boggy-seeming terrain that one would expect had that in fact occured with the magic she had planned to use before. "Buaidh no bas", she says with satisfaction before quieting down and slipping off to the side in the hope to inconspicuously follow Beorn even as he follows the others.
All three equines are confused and disturbed by the strangeness of the apparent collapse of ground and the noises the earth is making but their riders keep them under control, the the rightmosts pony almost darts off the road he hauls her head around once more and they begin riding off at speed....
Ori allowed himself to be pulled back to slink away against his better judgment, he didn't feel comfortable with the others in staying out there without support incase things went downhill. But trying to keep an eye on the unfolding situation instead of getting away caused Ori to stumble a bit into turnips. At least it wasn't a pile of cowbells! He snuck about with Tana and Cainneach unsure of where they planned to go, Almeric? A tavern? Ori wasn't good at blending into the crowd, just the opposite really. "Well that was as smooth as a cats tongue. We probably should separate ourselves too much incase they need an extra hand or two."
Already prepped to move Ori follows Cainneach and Tana towards the house gate but accidentally kicks over a basket of turnips sitting outside the drinking hall. Rising Beorn sees him, though his men do not busy as they are assisting Beorn to rise.
Famh and Thatch so far have gone unnoticed, Beorn stares after the trio for a moment calculating that if Almeric is not with them he must already be within, he rounded on his men.
" They're already here, only reason for this much haste is if they have it...."
" Capellers probably already got the old wolfs ear..."
" Lets go!"
Beorn turned and made to mount up as his men did the same....
( Note the Housegate into the Keep is too far away and slightly around a bend from the main road so the guard there has seen none of this so far.)
If Cainneach has a sight line to Beorn, he will attempt to read his lips (Observant). Seems like a long shot, especially in his state of exhaustion, but it seems like a good idea. (Per the text, only being able to see the creature's mouth is required, but I'll roll Perception as well, just in case. Still Exhausted, of course.)
Ori allowed himself to be pulled back to slink away against his better judgment, he didn't feel comfortable with the others in staying out there without support incase things went downhill. But trying to keep an eye on the unfolding situation instead of getting away caused Ori to stumble a bit into turnips. At least it wasn't a pile of cowbells! He snuck about with Tana and Cainneach unsure of where they planned to go, Almeric? A tavern? Ori wasn't good at blending into the crowd, just the opposite really. "Well that was as smooth as a cats tongue. We probably should separate ourselves too much incase they need an extra hand or two."
While marvelling at Famh's next arcane display, Cainneach hears Ori's remark. "Good idea, especially since by the looks of it, Beorn may have made us. Best to pick up the pace if we're to help Almeric and Fergus!"
Cainneach both sees and hears Beorns words, but also catches another snatch of conversation as they move away and down the road.
Thatch holds his breath and freezes in place as Beorn is unhorsed and lands almost on top of him. Thankfully, the knight and his retinue did not notice the stableboy. As they remounted and headed toward the gatehouse, Thatch rose and followed close behind, trying to catch up to Cainneach, Ori and the others. He hoped they delayed Sir Beorn long enough to give Sir Americ a chance to present his case, but he wanted to be close just in case.
The group, Famh beside, make haste toward the house gate of Castle Gorham, the guard stationed there is craning his neck trying to work out what all the fuss was on the village outskirts just then.
He runs his eyes over the companions fairly openly not overly impressed with their exhausted and ramshackle appearance.
As he examined them the doors of the castle hall were thrown open and a middleaged broad shouldered man in gray and black thundered out followed by Sir Almeric and Fergus, he called four guards over to attend him looking rather annoyed.
Baron Aldred nodded, " Thankyou for bringing this to me swiftly and at personal risk. Feel free to take lodgings and refreshment and have your household recorded in ledger so they may come and go as they wish."
" Do you have other business at the moment or are you at leisure.? "
" Now I have letters of intent to write requesting Beorn present himself promptly.........I suppose I must also inform the bishop....", he rubbed his temples.
Almeric breathed out in relief and sadness at the words of the Baron, but then breathed in sharply, realising the job was not done.
"My lord, I do have pressing business which can be of further assistance to you. Beorn is certainly outside the castle right now, probably murdering my Retinue as we speak. They volunteered to stay behind and slow him to give me more time to get to you safely. Lord, give me some horseman and I'll bring him straight back."
Almeric bows and makes to leave the private chamber, then remembers something. "Also, there is a less pressing matter for your attention, regarding Le Cloche at Maiden's Vale." Almeric passes Sir Valor's written testimony to Aldred. "Other members of my Retinue can give eye witness testimony of Le Cloche's behaviour and we discuss this later."
" Here? Now? Your certain?"
Baron Aldred rose to his feet, passing Sir Valors testimony automatically back to Myrrdin, " Later."
As Aldred stormed back into the hall he fixed the two door guards with a stare, " Escort Sir Alcuin to his chambers, and see that he remains there."
He nodded to his son to continue deliberations even as he marched out of the hall and into the courtyard, calling for four other guardsmen to attend him.
As Almeric looked over toward the gate he saw the majority of his retinue there, held at the entry.
Baron Aldred nodded, " Thankyou for bringing this to me swiftly and at personal risk. Feel free to take lodgings and refreshment and have your household recorded in ledger so they may come and go as they wish."
" Do you have other business at the moment or are you at leisure.? "
" Now I have letters of intent to write requesting Beorn present himself promptly.........I suppose I must also inform the bishop....", he rubbed his temples.
Almeric breathed out in relief and sadness at the words of the Baron, but then breathed in sharply, realising the job was not done.
"My lord, I do have pressing business which can be of further assistance to you. Beorn is certainly outside the castle right now, probably murdering my Retinue as we speak. They volunteered to stay behind and slow him to give me more time to get to you safely. Lord, give me some horseman and I'll bring him straight back."
Almeric bows and makes to leave the private chamber, then remembers something. "Also, there is a less pressing matter for your attention, regarding Le Cloche at Maiden's Vale." Almeric passes Sir Valor's written testimony to Aldred. "Other members of my Retinue can give eye witness testimony of Le Cloche's behaviour and we discuss this later."
" Here? Now? Your certain?"
Baron Aldred rose to his feet, passing Sir Valors testimony automatically back to Myrrdin, " Later."
As Aldred stormed back into the hall he fixed the two door guards with a stare, " Escort Sir Alcuin to his chambers, and see that he remains there."
He nodded to his son to continue deliberations even as he marched out of the hall and into the courtyard, calling for four other guardsmen to attend him.
As Almeric looked over toward the gate he saw the majority of his retinue there, held at the entry.
"Yes lord, I am certain, let us make haste!" As they all thunder out of the Hall, Almeric fixes Alcuin with a cold stone glare!
As they approach the Gatehouse, Almeric sees the others waiting. "There is the Dayne Retinue lord, at the gate."Calling out to them, he shouts "WHERE IS BEORN?"
"Well mate, he got a good look at us and high tailed it right back out the way he came. Well after he picked his horse flung arse out of the dirt and back on his saddle that is." Ori was relieved to see the Baron and Almeric together and asking for Beorn, a sign of things going thier way. "We tried to stall him getting to the castle but he likely knew what we were here for and thought better of sticking around after spotting us."
Cainneach interjects, "I was fortunate to see a bit of their conversation while they were gathering themselves to flee. Beorn was definitely able to deduce that we've spoiled his treachery and they've fled west to shelter with Grisaille. Hopefully Aldred has riders that can head them off, for I don't think we're in the best shape to make pursuit."
As soon as she sees that Beorn has been thrown, Famh carefully ceases any earth moving she had already begun; not suddenly ending it if that would look suspicious but rather tapering off quickly but naturally. If she had not begun casting, of course, she does not even start. Rather, she shifts herself forward and continues her pretence of intoxication while actually observing the whole of her surroundings with focused attention to be ready for whatever may ensue.
==================
Perception 11
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
( The old man appears to be left handed and his fingertips carry the stain of ink, tucked into the belt of his tunic is a vellum scroll and he wears an ivory pendant in the shape of an oak leaf around his neck on a leather throng. There is an air of power about him despite his frail somewhat delicate build.)
Almeric strides into the private chamber, relief and excitement rushing through his fatigued body. He waves Fergus to follow him! They had got here first, out-foxing Beorn and getting Aldred alone in his chamber. Now the doors of the hall were sealed until Almeric had given testimony and gives his best chance to inform and persuade the Baron of the truth. Almeric does his best in his exhausted state to recount everything clearly, concisely and in good order.
Almeric whispers to Fergus as they enter. "Sing up if mis-remember, forget, and or get anything wrong, will you?" (HELP Action from Fergus? Reducing DIS to a straight roll?)
Here are the highlights of Almeric's testimony to Aldred
PERSUASION = 18
Cainneach is fully dazed at this point, his normally alert self all but oblivious to what is going on with Beorn and his riders. When he snaps out of it, he sees that Thatch and Famh have created wonderful diversions that have both slowed and angered Beorn. Thatch slinks off into the shadows, while Famh is doing a bang up job impersonating a drunk. "Has she ever been drunk?", he absentmindedly wonders. Ori and Tana don't seem to be too bothered by what is transpiring, so he shakes them both and hisses, "Let's get out of here! We should make our way to Aldred's in case things go poorly for Fergus and Almeric." He attempts to follow Thatch's lead, while routing the others with him.
Stealth 6
Passive WIS (Perception) 20 (keeping an eye out for Beorn's group and their progress)
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Tana scrambles to follow Cainneach, glancing back briefly to ensure that Famh is holding up alright in addition to keeping an eye on Beorn.
(Stealth: 14)
Noire Havensong | Harengon Archfey Warlock 6/Lore Bard 4 | Westmarch - Guild of the Phoenix (Discord)
Tanatari Crelieu | Kalashtar Druid 2 | Damian_May's Sleeping Gods
Jynx Starrkeep | Changling GOO Warlock 2 | Astien's Tyranny of Dragons
DM | Eberron Eternal (Discord)
Already prepped to move Ori follows Cainneach and Tana towards the house gate but accidentally kicks over a basket of turnips sitting outside the drinking hall. Rising Beorn sees him, though his men do not busy as they are assisting Beorn to rise.
Famh and Thatch so far have gone unnoticed, Beorn stares after the trio for a moment calculating that if Almeric is not with them he must already be within, he rounded on his men.
" They're already here, only reason for this much haste is if they have it...."
" Capellers probably already got the old wolfs ear..."
" Lets go!"
Beorn turned and made to mount up as his men did the same....
( Note the Housegate into the Keep is too far away and slightly around a bend from the main road so the guard there has seen none of this so far.)
( Assuming Help from Fergus as thats why he's here.)
As he listens Baron Aldred inspects both the sword and the hidden missive before passing both to the grey one beside him to examine.
" I know Beorns hand well enough, sadly this is indeed his."
" Alcuin while no doubt the intended recipient I cannot say for sure if he is truly involved or if this missive is an attempt to approach or involve him more fully....his brothers involvement will necessitate his removal regardless."
" The robbery and death of Harald is tragic news....Harald rode at my fathers side back when he still wore his maille. That you have brought his body will be a great burden off his familys shoulders at least they have someone to bury. Though you do not believe that Beorn had him murdered but it was rather misadventure after the robbery?"
" Well.....it is not the first time this year that Montombre or Grisaille have put their hand in to see me off........Ulric is new though. I wonder if that was presumed or confirmed I haven't troubled the old recluse for many a year."
" Myrddin? Have you had dealings with Ulric before?"
" Many years ago, milord. A cantankerous old hermit.....though not without power. Its concerning if his interests do align with the others. I'll send a query.......politely."
Baron Aldred nodded, " Thankyou for bringing this to me swiftly and at personal risk. Feel free to take lodgings and refreshment and have your household recorded in ledger so they may come and go as they wish."
" Do you have other business at the moment or are you at leisure.? "
" Now I have letters of intent to write requesting Beorn present himself promptly.........I suppose I must also inform the bishop....", he rubbed his temples.
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Ori allowed himself to be pulled back to slink away against his better judgment, he didn't feel comfortable with the others in staying out there without support incase things went downhill. But trying to keep an eye on the unfolding situation instead of getting away caused Ori to stumble a bit into turnips. At least it wasn't a pile of cowbells! He snuck about with Tana and Cainneach unsure of where they planned to go, Almeric? A tavern? Ori wasn't good at blending into the crowd, just the opposite really. "Well that was as smooth as a cats tongue. We probably should separate ourselves too much incase they need an extra hand or two."
If Cainneach has a sight line to Beorn, he will attempt to read his lips (Observant). Seems like a long shot, especially in his state of exhaustion, but it seems like a good idea. (Per the text, only being able to see the creature's mouth is required, but I'll roll Perception as well, just in case. Still Exhausted, of course.)
Perception 8
While marvelling at Famh's next arcane display, Cainneach hears Ori's remark. "Good idea, especially since by the looks of it, Beorn may have made us. Best to pick up the pace if we're to help Almeric and Fergus!"
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Almeric breathed out in relief and sadness at the words of the Baron, but then breathed in sharply, realising the job was not done.
"My lord, I do have pressing business which can be of further assistance to you. Beorn is certainly outside the castle right now, probably murdering my Retinue as we speak. They volunteered to stay behind and slow him to give me more time to get to you safely. Lord, give me some horseman and I'll bring him straight back."
Almeric bows and makes to leave the private chamber, then remembers something. "Also, there is a less pressing matter for your attention, regarding Le Cloche at Maiden's Vale." Almeric passes Sir Valor's written testimony to Aldred. "Other members of my Retinue can give eye witness testimony of Le Cloche's behaviour and we discuss this later."
Fergus remained silent unless signalled to contribute in order to corroborate Sir Almeric's testimony.
Relieved that the Baron believed them, Fergus nodded in agreement with Sir Almeric on returning to the others. He was less interested in apprehending the traitor, more so he wanted to ensure the others were brought to safety under the Baron's protection.
Thatch holds his breath and freezes in place as Beorn is unhorsed and lands almost on top of him. Thankfully, the knight and his retinue did not notice the stableboy. As they remounted and headed toward the gatehouse, Thatch rose and followed close behind, trying to catch up to Cainneach, Ori and the others. He hoped they delayed Sir Beorn long enough to give Sir Americ a chance to present his case, but he wanted to be close just in case.
( Just a note Beorn and co. are attempting to head out of the village at speed not into the castle gate.)
Beorn Animal Handling-23
Kern Animal Handling-17
Fifer Animal Handling-3
All three equines are confused and disturbed by the strangeness of the apparent collapse of ground and the noises the earth is making but their riders keep them under control, the the rightmosts pony almost darts off the road he hauls her head around once more and they begin riding off at speed....
Cainneach both sees and hears Beorns words, but also catches another snatch of conversation as they move away and down the road.
West to Grisaille......we've need of shelter....
The group, Famh beside, make haste toward the house gate of Castle Gorham, the guard stationed there is craning his neck trying to work out what all the fuss was on the village outskirts just then.
He runs his eyes over the companions fairly openly not overly impressed with their exhausted and ramshackle appearance.
As he examined them the doors of the castle hall were thrown open and a middleaged broad shouldered man in gray and black thundered out followed by Sir Almeric and Fergus, he called four guards over to attend him looking rather annoyed.
" Here? Now? Your certain?"
Baron Aldred rose to his feet, passing Sir Valors testimony automatically back to Myrrdin, " Later."
As Aldred stormed back into the hall he fixed the two door guards with a stare, " Escort Sir Alcuin to his chambers, and see that he remains there."
He nodded to his son to continue deliberations even as he marched out of the hall and into the courtyard, calling for four other guardsmen to attend him.
As Almeric looked over toward the gate he saw the majority of his retinue there, held at the entry.
"Yes lord, I am certain, let us make haste!" As they all thunder out of the Hall, Almeric fixes Alcuin with a cold stone glare!
As they approach the Gatehouse, Almeric sees the others waiting. "There is the Dayne Retinue lord, at the gate." Calling out to them, he shouts "WHERE IS BEORN?"
"Well mate, he got a good look at us and high tailed it right back out the way he came. Well after he picked his horse flung arse out of the dirt and back on his saddle that is." Ori was relieved to see the Baron and Almeric together and asking for Beorn, a sign of things going thier way. "We tried to stall him getting to the castle but he likely knew what we were here for and thought better of sticking around after spotting us."
Cainneach interjects, "I was fortunate to see a bit of their conversation while they were gathering themselves to flee. Beorn was definitely able to deduce that we've spoiled his treachery and they've fled west to shelter with Grisaille. Hopefully Aldred has riders that can head them off, for I don't think we're in the best shape to make pursuit."
Active - Player: Sleeping Gods ---- Complete - Player: Masquerade, Teleportation Machine ---- Complete - DM: Extradimensional Spaces
Come join the Worlds of Pphost, a new and growing PbP community! Adventures are currently running in the world of Haven or do some role-playing!
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