Moving through the dark with only a half moon to light the night the companions began following the north eastern edge of Jewelspider, the woods were alive with the sounds of nocturnal life but Tana and Famh identified each and every sound and knew there was no danger as they moved ahead. Tana also managed to collect a fair amount of useful herbage along the way without slowing her steps.
Coming upon the Abbey they found a deal of foodstuffs left out in a safe box for the poor and hungry...and took a little as they certainly resembled one if not both of those.
Skirting Newham and the chained hounds and scarred men that watched the village borders they struck out across the Oster Moor.
As they neared the river Cainneach suddenly called them to freeze in place, he pointed to the north......as their eyes adjusted a large figure could be glimpsed capering madly along a distant ridge. At first it seemed a man without any means to judge its size as it came ever closer wrinkled grey-white skin, slimy and scabrous in the moon light became apparent and blank eyes stared from that awful man-like face. An odour of spilled blood wafted from it as the wind changed, it sniffed the air apparently having lost whichever scent it was following and then a second awful head revealed itself crying on the wind like a beaten child.
The figure continued to move away until it was lost in the darkness again....and the companions hurried on. They found the road again part way between Wufulston and Market Cross as the sky began to lighten in the east. Exhausted and footsore they entered Market Cross....almost to their destination....
Just before entering Market Cross, Famh splashes some cold water on her face from her waterskin and pinches herself. She knows she will need to stay alert to keep the group's magical camouflage up in a market town. Raising her eyes as we trudge into town, she looks carefully about her while trying to not look like she's looking carefully about her.
=========================
Perception 12
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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
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Thatch thought it was a stroke of luck that they avoided Sir Beorn and his men in Karrickbridge and learned that they may cut him off by heading cross country. Without the need to avoid being followed, Thatch didn’t take the time to hide their trail. But the travel was beginning to take its toll on his slight frame and he struggled to keep up as they navigated the forests and marshes in the dark. He breathed a sigh of relief as they hit the main road to Market Cross. He keeps an eye open for any signs or markings of Thieves Cant that may indicate that Sir Beorn or his men had arrived ahead of them to put their plan into play. He catches up to Sir Almeric “ Now what? Should we find a place to clean up before we approach the Baron? Is there time? I doubt our current condition would help us in our argument.” He pulls his hood up in an attempt to blend in with the people beginning to stir in the early morning street.
Almeric found his second breath upon reaching Jewelspider Wood, re-invigorated by their success in avoiding Beorn and stealing a march across Oster Moor. Now came the most challenging part of their mission, persuading 'the old wolf' himself. Answering Thatch but addressing the whole group.
"Your appearance is not important, neither is your opinion. Baron Aldred will not want to hear or see you at all. I will be lucky to get an audience myself. If you are allowed an audience, address your concerns directly to me, discretely and politely. DO NOT address the Baron unless asked a question. Remember our first encounter with Beorn? How upset he was by your free thinking and outspokeness. If we upset Aldred, he will not want to believe us, so please be nice. We do not have a lot of eveidence and must play our hand carefully."
"You're right there; my magic couldn't do much more than provide a subtle distraction ... noises in the distance or something I could do with whispers and finger waves. And I doubt but I might be one of the least likely to be granted the audience at all." Famh quirks one corner of her mouth up wryly as she says this. "Is there aught I could do or find out in the castle burgh, if not?"
"Sounds like a real man of the people. I'm not much of one to know my way around nobles and politics, but if the man wouldn't want to listen to someone, no matter the status, who comes with a evidence of a plot against them... well probably best the lot of us stay with Harold. I think he's the best rested of our whole crew and won't have us in the gallows for speaking out of turn." Realizing what his exhausted brain just made him say out loud, he figures he just managed to offend Sir Almeric somehow, though Ori wouldn't know how. "Maybe best you handle this one while we rest up and see what we can do for Harold."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
After signalling to his companions, Cainneach, in his fatigued state, is unsure if the spectral figure stalking the ridge is real or a hallucination. He quickly glances at the party and, thankfully, the shocked looks on their faces indicate that the sight must be real, horrible though that may be. "Keep it together, Cainneach, we're near our destination, you can rest soon enough. Must push on for now." He grimly continues, doing his best to remain aware of their path and any dangers that lurk.
Reaching Market Cross as the sun begins to appear on the horizon is both a relief and somewhat harrowing, as Cainneach struggles to remember when he last properly slept. Morkaan willing, their march will pay off and Beorn will be exposed. However, given his current state and that of most of his companions, he fears that they will simply have to accept whatever fate deals them.
"Sounds like a real man of the people. I'm not much of one to know my way around nobles and politics, but if the man wouldn't want to listen to someone, no matter the status, who comes with a evidence of a plot against them... well probably best the lot of us stay with Harold. I think he's the best rested of our whole crew and won't have us in the gallows for speaking out of turn." Realizing what his exhausted brain just made him say out loud, he figures he just managed to offend Sir Almeric somehow, though Ori wouldn't know how. "Maybe best you handle this one while we rest up and see what we can do for Harold."
"Ori, I think you've got it right. I can only imagine what I'd say to a noble in my current state, but I'm sure it wouldn't be flattering. I'll lend you a hand with the ol' tax man here, but you have to promise that after we all find a place to lay down. I'm not sure how much I've got left to give at this point!"
Passive WIS (Perception)20 (keeping a general eye out for trouble) Perception9 (attempt to overhear or lip read conversations amongst the townsfolk to get information on Beorn's whereabouts)
"Your appearance is not important, neither is your opinion. Baron Aldred will not want to hear or see you at all. I will be lucky to get an audience myself. If you are allowed an audience, address your concerns directly to me, discretely and politely. DO NOT address the Baron unless asked a question. Remember our first encounter with Beorn? How upset he was by your free thinking and outspokeness. If we upset Aldred, he will not want to believe us, so please be nice. We do not have a lot of eveidence and must play our hand carefully."
"Hmph, Beorn is a stuffed fool"Thatch grunts noncommittally and performs a mocking bow to Sir Almeric "As you wish my grace, you will hear naught even a peep from me." Thatch turns to pass by the stable, looking for any sign of the horses Beorn and his men had taken from Sir Almeric and Fergus to see if they had arrived before them. He will also try to determine if any large groups arrived in town recently.
Sir Almeric and Fergus left Market Cross almost immediately making haste for Gorham Castle, the remainder of the retinue did a quick reconnoitre of Market Cross and quickly determined that neither Beorn or his men were not present, unlikely as it were.
Sir Almeric and Fergus approached the castle noting the small village surrounding it and Sir Almeric noting that despite being a keep the building itself was not much larger than his family manor though the perimeter wall was far more impressive. As they moved quickly towards the gate they attracted little attention from the villagers though the guardsman at the gate did step lightly in front with a friendly expression. He was dressed in somewhat faded livery and a gambeson and holding lightly a well maintained guisarme.
" Morning! May I be of assitance, Sir?"
.............................
The rest of the retinue followed down the road soon after arriving in Gorham only scant minutes after Almeric and Fergus did, again a quick investigation of the village turned up no sign of Beorn or his men.
They set up within the drinking hall which gave a good view of the entry trade road north and the owner seemed happy to have them used to hosting the overflow from visiting retinues.
Almeric tries to maintain some air of dignity and composure when in Gorham, even though he was exhausted. He has made an attempt to brush down his clothes, removing as much dirt and detritus as possible. Whispering to Fergus,
"Do not forget, Sir Alcuin is Beorn's brother, who is an implicated in the plot and also trusted member of the household. Alcuin will be waiting for a message from his brother and it may be difficult to get the sword to Baron Aldred without arousing suspicion. Getting past Alcuin to see Aldred is going to be difficult."
"When we do get inside, stay as close to me as you can, follow my lead and watch my back! You can talk to me, quietly, but don't address anyone else directly."
As they approach the castle, Almeric raises himself to his full height, shoulders back, chest out, striding purposefully towards the Gatehouse.
"Good morning my good man!"*smiles broadly* "Sir Americ Dayne at your service!" *small bow, shows family signit ring* "a distant relative of Baron Aldred. I request an audience with the Baron, at his earliest convenience. It is a matter of grave import and it would greatly benefit him to hear it from myself forthwith!" Persuasion with DIS (Exh) = 19, 9
The man regarded Sir Almeric a little dubiously, his eyes flicking back to inspect the ring more than once.
" Ah, well the Baron is quite busy today...but as a....relative....I suspect he will make time to see you."
" Very well, you may enter."
The two of them were ushered through into the courtyard; on their far right were the stables and stores, almost directly ahead the kitchen and staff entrance and quarters and to their left large ajar double doors leading into the main hall.
The gate guard signalled to one of the two men stationed outside the double doors and one of them moved forward towards Sir Almeric and Fergus, " Just this way, Sir."
...........................................
As the others sat and rested their weary legs and, in some cases, eyelids Cainneach, Thatch and Famh noted three forms moving rapidly down the north road towards them. Three horses and riders the one in the lead much larger than the two following.....they would be here in a matter of minutes.
Almeric strides with a purpose, in the strong belief he only has one chance to succeed in this mission. At least Almeric was with Fergus, his newest friend and associate. Whispering to Fergus.
"Remember how we dealt with the robber knight on the Clyster Road? An indefatigable belief in what we are doing is right! Never doubt yourself, whatever happens, because I lives depend on it! I expect Alcuin will be in the Main Hall, so watch him like a hawk. You have my explicit permission to act if he makes to attack us."
As they enter the Main Hall, Almeric will ignore everyone else (including Alcuin), striding purposefully towards Aldred seated on his Baronial throne. Kneeling immediately before the Baron, Almeric gives his petition without waiting to be announced or given permission.
"Noble Lord, Almeric Dayne at your service. Recently arrived in country from Outreemer. I have discovered the most serious and grave plot to unseat you from your position and throw the Northern Territories into chaos. It concerns the murder of your Tax Collector, the theft of Taxes and a conspiracy within the heart of your household. I have evidence from my own eyes and ears, witnesses to the fact and articles to prove my allegations. I request those responsible be seized, to prevent their vile act from being realised, until a Court of Justice can be convened. This is a personal matter for me, you being the patriarch of our family, and as a Knight Capellar, I feel compelled to act."
Almeric is totally committed to this course of action, with no way back. His body language, speech and very aura demonstrate his indefatigable belief. Persuasion DIS = 19, 16
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
“Look!”Thatch elbows the person closest to him and points at the figures racing down the road. “The jig is up, here comes Beorn and his cronies. We need to give Sir Almeric some time.” Thatch jumps up and moves to the side of the road. Pulling out a bag of ball bearings from his pack, he spreads them across the trail. He is in no shape for a fight, but if he could just slow the riders down he would worry about what comes next later. After quickly placing his trap, Thatch moves back away from the road and attempts to hide in the underbrush.
Ori, not noticing the riders, says to Thatch after taking an elbow from him, "Easy partner, people come and go all the time through these parts, we just need to blend in a bit better. Almeric is working under the assumption the gang will be the next on through the doors behind him. We just need to lay low and keep our eyes out and keep our heads... There he goes, with .. beans? Well so much for keeping a low profile." Ori starts to gather his belongings, "Best get set to move or prep for a scrap."
"Clag Deireadh Fanaidh Balaichean Falbh a Ghabhail do Ghnuis Airson cac, Bod Ceann. Falbh Dairich Fhein Mhac na Galla Cliospairneach ... Taigh Nam Gasta ort Faigh e Deas Suas Fhein, Magairlean Blaigeard..." The stifled muttering in Thulish that Famh has been engaged in ever since seeing the horsemen ride into town rises to a new height of intensity as she realizes that they are headed straight for us,l and presumably straight for Baron Aldred immediately after. She takes the time to whsiper to Ori, "Travelers, yes. Pursuers at full gallop ... that's a little less common.", before shifting her mind to the waking trance in which she learned to do her magic. Using the same spell she used before to degrade the condition of the road, she focuses on a spot just in front of the lead horse and causes the ground to collapse into a deep and steep-sided washout for the horse to stumble in. She focuses on making the excavation look as if an unsuspected underground stream had suddenly worn through the earth above it and collapsed the road, and pretends to be drunk while she is casting the spell to conceal her arcane gestures and words.
=====================
Mold earth yet again, courtesy of Famh and Famh Construction and Excavation Inc. LLC LOL
“Look!”Thatch elbows the person closest to him and points at the figures racing down the road. “The jig is up, here comes Beorn and his cronies. We need to give Sir Almeric some time.” Thatch jumps up and moves to the side of the road. Pulling out a bag of ball bearings from his pack, he spreads them across the trail. He is in no shape for a fight, but if he could just slow the riders down he would worry about what comes next later. After quickly placing his trap, Thatch moves back away from the road and attempts to hide in the underbrush.
Ori, not noticing the riders, says to Thatch after taking an elbow from him, "Easy partner, people come and go all the time through these parts, we just need to blend in a bit better. Almeric is working under the assumption the gang will be the next on through the doors behind him. We just need to lay low and keep our eyes out and keep our heads... There he goes, with .. beans? Well so much for keeping a low profile." Ori starts to gather his belongings, "Best get set to move or prep for a scrap."
"Clag Deireadh Fanaidh Balaichean Falbh a Ghabhail do Ghnuis Airson cac, Bod Ceann. Falbh Dairich Fhein Mhac na Galla Cliospairneach ... Taigh Nam Gasta ort Faigh e Deas Suas Fhein, Magairlean Blaigeard..." The stifled muttering in Thulish that Famh has been engaged in ever since seeing the horsemen ride into town rises to a new height of intensity as she realizes that they are headed straight for us,l and presumably straight for Baron Aldred immediately after. She takes the time to whsiper to Ori, "Travelers, yes. Pursuers at full gallop ... that's a little less common.", before shifting her mind to the waking trance in which she learned to do her magic. Using the same spell she used before to degrade the condition of the road, she focuses on a spot just in front of the lead horse and causes the ground to collapse into a deep and steep-sided washout for the horse to stumble in. She focuses on making the excavation look as if an unsuspected underground stream had suddenly worn through the earth above it and collapsed the road, and pretends to be drunk while she is casting the spell to conceal her arcane gestures and words.
=====================
Mold earth yet again, courtesy of Famh and Famh Construction and Excavation Inc. LLC LOL
...and then lowers her head sadly. "Poor beast. I wish there was time to slow them some other way."
The trio continue thundering in, Thatch now concealed by the roadside. Famh has to wait until the very last minute but Beorn and his men have more to worry about than recognising her......at least for now.
The destrier....a veteren of the Crusades in Outremer spots the metallic sheen of Thatchs ball bearings and shies to the left smashing its hooves into the packed earth as it throws itself into a sudden and complete stop, already slowing but not expecting a dead stop Beorn is thrown sideways off the war horse and crashes to the ground mere inches from where Thatch is hidden. He groans and wipes away the blood from where he struck his head with an angry bellow.
The two ponies following plant their forehooves as the destrier stops throwing their riders forward almost over their heads but both men manage to stay unsteadily in their saddles, though they begin to dismount to assist their leader.
The villagers who had been mostly ignoring the companions, begin rushing over to assist but come to an uncertain halt as Beorn raises his head eyes full of fury.....
Almeric strides with a purpose, in the strong belief he only has one chance to succeed in this mission. At least Almeric was with Fergus, his newest friend and associate. Whispering to Fergus.
"Remember how we dealt with the robber knight on the Clyster Road? An indefatigable belief in what we are doing is right! Never doubt yourself, whatever happens, because I lives depend on it! I expect Alcuin will be in the Main Hall, so watch him like a hawk. You have my explicit permission to act if he makes to attack us."
As they enter the Main Hall, Almeric will ignore everyone else (including Alcuin), striding purposefully towards Aldred seated on his Baronial throne. Kneeling immediately before the Baron, Almeric gives his petition without waiting to be announced or given permission.
"Noble Lord, Almeric Dayne at your service. Recently arrived in country from Outreemer. I have discovered the most serious and grave plot to unseat you from your position and throw the Northern Territories into chaos. It concerns the murder of your Tax Collector, the theft of Taxes and a conspiracy within the heart of your household. I have evidence from my own eyes and ears, witnesses to the fact and articles to prove my allegations. I request those responsible be seized, to prevent their vile act from being realised, until a Court of Justice can be convened. This is a personal matter for me, you being the patriarch of our family, and as a Knight Capellar, I feel compelled to act."
Almeric is totally committed to this course of action, with no way back. His body language, speech and very aura demonstrate his indefatigable belief. Persuasion DIS = 19, 16
When Almeric entered the hall he clocked Alcuin as the man resembled his brother quite a lot though taller and with more delicate features, Alcuin for his part had no idea who Almeric was.
Also within the hall were an assortment of other men and woman, a youth stood beside the Barons seat in the house livery, Almeric suspected this must be the Barons son who was named Almeric as well, though the lad had been a mere boy the last time Sir Almeric had been in Albion. beside him stood Sir Grisse, an elder knight that Almeric recognised from his own past as the old knight had called in at the Dayne Manor a number of times in his youth. A young girl watched from the rear of the hall in a lavendar dress and most of the others present were dressed in simple dark woolen clothes.
Beside the seat lay two massive deerhounds who regarded Sir Almeric....and especially Fergus....with glittering eyes. As for the Baron himself he is of middling height and build, his dark curly hair speckled with grey and sporting a short salt and pepper beard. Aldred, Baron of Gorburn, could easily pass for a moderately prosperous merchant or townsman in his late forties.
Aldred’s only distinguishing features are piercing blue eyes which glint from beneath bushy black brows and a surprisingly booming voice suited to battlefield command. He is dressed predominantly in somber blacks, greys and browns. His clothes well made but lack the ostentatious style more common amongst Southern nobles.
An older man in a simple grey smock and cloak hurried forward and whispered in Baron Aldreds ear, the Baron nodded glancing quickly at Fergus before returning to Sir Almeric.
" Rise, Sir Almeric. These are heavy words to throw about in open air, but not the first time I have been targetted as such. Close the doors, none may enter or leave until I have spoken further with my distant cousin."
" Almeric, my son, please take the seat and continue daily council....Sir Grisse will assist you. I believe the next scheduled was a matter of a flour mill or somesuch?", an older man in brown wool nodded as he came forward to speak with the Barons son.
" Sir Almeric.....and your herald.....join me in chambers.", he rose and pointed the way towards a stout oak door, the old man in gray came up behind Fergus and whispered, " Go with your Master, now."
Baron Aldred held the door open for Sir Almeric and Fergus to enter the chamber.....
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)
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Moving through the dark with only a half moon to light the night the companions began following the north eastern edge of Jewelspider, the woods were alive with the sounds of nocturnal life but Tana and Famh identified each and every sound and knew there was no danger as they moved ahead. Tana also managed to collect a fair amount of useful herbage along the way without slowing her steps.
Coming upon the Abbey they found a deal of foodstuffs left out in a safe box for the poor and hungry...and took a little as they certainly resembled one if not both of those.
Skirting Newham and the chained hounds and scarred men that watched the village borders they struck out across the Oster Moor.
As they neared the river Cainneach suddenly called them to freeze in place, he pointed to the north......as their eyes adjusted a large figure could be glimpsed capering madly along a distant ridge. At first it seemed a man without any means to judge its size as it came ever closer wrinkled grey-white skin, slimy and scabrous in the moon light became apparent and blank eyes stared from that awful man-like face. An odour of spilled blood wafted from it as the wind changed, it sniffed the air apparently having lost whichever scent it was following and then a second awful head revealed itself crying on the wind like a beaten child.
The figure continued to move away until it was lost in the darkness again....and the companions hurried on. They found the road again part way between Wufulston and Market Cross as the sky began to lighten in the east. Exhausted and footsore they entered Market Cross....almost to their destination....
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
Thatch thought it was a stroke of luck that they avoided Sir Beorn and his men in Karrickbridge and learned that they may cut him off by heading cross country. Without the need to avoid being followed, Thatch didn’t take the time to hide their trail. But the travel was beginning to take its toll on his slight frame and he struggled to keep up as they navigated the forests and marshes in the dark. He breathed a sigh of relief as they hit the main road to Market Cross. He keeps an eye open for any signs or markings of Thieves Cant that may indicate that Sir Beorn or his men had arrived ahead of them to put their plan into play. He catches up to Sir Almeric “ Now what? Should we find a place to clean up before we approach the Baron? Is there time? I doubt our current condition would help us in our argument.” He pulls his hood up in an attempt to blend in with the people beginning to stir in the early morning street.
Stealth: 13.
Perception: 11.
.
Almeric found his second breath upon reaching Jewelspider Wood, re-invigorated by their success in avoiding Beorn and stealing a march across Oster Moor. Now came the most challenging part of their mission, persuading 'the old wolf' himself. Answering Thatch but addressing the whole group.
"Your appearance is not important, neither is your opinion. Baron Aldred will not want to hear or see you at all. I will be lucky to get an audience myself. If you are allowed an audience, address your concerns directly to me, discretely and politely. DO NOT address the Baron unless asked a question. Remember our first encounter with Beorn? How upset he was by your free thinking and outspokeness. If we upset Aldred, he will not want to believe us, so please be nice. We do not have a lot of eveidence and must play our hand carefully."
"You're right there; my magic couldn't do much more than provide a subtle distraction ... noises in the distance or something I could do with whispers and finger waves. And I doubt but I might be one of the least likely to be granted the audience at all." Famh quirks one corner of her mouth up wryly as she says this. "Is there aught I could do or find out in the castle burgh, if not?"
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
"Sounds like a real man of the people. I'm not much of one to know my way around nobles and politics, but if the man wouldn't want to listen to someone, no matter the status, who comes with a evidence of a plot against them... well probably best the lot of us stay with Harold. I think he's the best rested of our whole crew and won't have us in the gallows for speaking out of turn." Realizing what his exhausted brain just made him say out loud, he figures he just managed to offend Sir Almeric somehow, though Ori wouldn't know how. "Maybe best you handle this one while we rest up and see what we can do for Harold."
After signalling to his companions, Cainneach, in his fatigued state, is unsure if the spectral figure stalking the ridge is real or a hallucination. He quickly glances at the party and, thankfully, the shocked looks on their faces indicate that the sight must be real, horrible though that may be. "Keep it together, Cainneach, we're near our destination, you can rest soon enough. Must push on for now." He grimly continues, doing his best to remain aware of their path and any dangers that lurk.
Reaching Market Cross as the sun begins to appear on the horizon is both a relief and somewhat harrowing, as Cainneach struggles to remember when he last properly slept. Morkaan willing, their march will pay off and Beorn will be exposed. However, given his current state and that of most of his companions, he fears that they will simply have to accept whatever fate deals them.
"Ori, I think you've got it right. I can only imagine what I'd say to a noble in my current state, but I'm sure it wouldn't be flattering. I'll lend you a hand with the ol' tax man here, but you have to promise that after we all find a place to lay down. I'm not sure how much I've got left to give at this point!"
Passive WIS (Perception) 20 (keeping a general eye out for trouble)
Perception 9 (attempt to overhear or lip read conversations amongst the townsfolk to get information on Beorn's whereabouts)
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"Hmph, Beorn is a stuffed fool" Thatch grunts noncommittally and performs a mocking bow to Sir Almeric "As you wish my grace, you will hear naught even a peep from me." Thatch turns to pass by the stable, looking for any sign of the horses Beorn and his men had taken from Sir Almeric and Fergus to see if they had arrived before them. He will also try to determine if any large groups arrived in town recently.
Fergus wearily leans against a nearby wall, heavy bags under his eyes.
"I will go with Sir Almeric and act as his silent scrivener if it will help gain an audience. Otherwise I will rest here with the others."
Sir Almeric and Fergus left Market Cross almost immediately making haste for Gorham Castle, the remainder of the retinue did a quick reconnoitre of Market Cross and quickly determined that neither Beorn or his men were not present, unlikely as it were.
Sir Almeric and Fergus approached the castle noting the small village surrounding it and Sir Almeric noting that despite being a keep the building itself was not much larger than his family manor though the perimeter wall was far more impressive. As they moved quickly towards the gate they attracted little attention from the villagers though the guardsman at the gate did step lightly in front with a friendly expression. He was dressed in somewhat faded livery and a gambeson and holding lightly a well maintained guisarme.
" Morning! May I be of assitance, Sir?"
.............................
The rest of the retinue followed down the road soon after arriving in Gorham only scant minutes after Almeric and Fergus did, again a quick investigation of the village turned up no sign of Beorn or his men.
They set up within the drinking hall which gave a good view of the entry trade road north and the owner seemed happy to have them used to hosting the overflow from visiting retinues.
Almeric tries to maintain some air of dignity and composure when in Gorham, even though he was exhausted. He has made an attempt to brush down his clothes, removing as much dirt and detritus as possible. Whispering to Fergus,
"Do not forget, Sir Alcuin is Beorn's brother, who is an implicated in the plot and also trusted member of the household. Alcuin will be waiting for a message from his brother and it may be difficult to get the sword to Baron Aldred without arousing suspicion. Getting past Alcuin to see Aldred is going to be difficult."
"When we do get inside, stay as close to me as you can, follow my lead and watch my back! You can talk to me, quietly, but don't address anyone else directly."
As they approach the castle, Almeric raises himself to his full height, shoulders back, chest out, striding purposefully towards the Gatehouse.
"Good morning my good man!" *smiles broadly* "Sir Americ Dayne at your service!" *small bow, shows family signit ring* "a distant relative of Baron Aldred. I request an audience with the Baron, at his earliest convenience. It is a matter of grave import and it would greatly benefit him to hear it from myself forthwith!" Persuasion with DIS (Exh) = 19, 9
The man regarded Sir Almeric a little dubiously, his eyes flicking back to inspect the ring more than once.
" Ah, well the Baron is quite busy today...but as a....relative....I suspect he will make time to see you."
" Very well, you may enter."
The two of them were ushered through into the courtyard; on their far right were the stables and stores, almost directly ahead the kitchen and staff entrance and quarters and to their left large ajar double doors leading into the main hall.
The gate guard signalled to one of the two men stationed outside the double doors and one of them moved forward towards Sir Almeric and Fergus, " Just this way, Sir."
...........................................
As the others sat and rested their weary legs and, in some cases, eyelids Cainneach, Thatch and Famh noted three forms moving rapidly down the north road towards them. Three horses and riders the one in the lead much larger than the two following.....they would be here in a matter of minutes.
Almeric strides with a purpose, in the strong belief he only has one chance to succeed in this mission. At least Almeric was with Fergus, his newest friend and associate. Whispering to Fergus.
"Remember how we dealt with the robber knight on the Clyster Road? An indefatigable belief in what we are doing is right! Never doubt yourself, whatever happens, because I lives depend on it! I expect Alcuin will be in the Main Hall, so watch him like a hawk. You have my explicit permission to act if he makes to attack us."
As they enter the Main Hall, Almeric will ignore everyone else (including Alcuin), striding purposefully towards Aldred seated on his Baronial throne. Kneeling immediately before the Baron, Almeric gives his petition without waiting to be announced or given permission.
"Noble Lord, Almeric Dayne at your service. Recently arrived in country from Outreemer. I have discovered the most serious and grave plot to unseat you from your position and throw the Northern Territories into chaos. It concerns the murder of your Tax Collector, the theft of Taxes and a conspiracy within the heart of your household. I have evidence from my own eyes and ears, witnesses to the fact and articles to prove my allegations. I request those responsible be seized, to prevent their vile act from being realised, until a Court of Justice can be convened. This is a personal matter for me, you being the patriarch of our family, and as a Knight Capellar, I feel compelled to act."
Almeric is totally committed to this course of action, with no way back. His body language, speech and very aura demonstrate his indefatigable belief. Persuasion DIS = 19, 16
“Look!” Thatch elbows the person closest to him and points at the figures racing down the road. “The jig is up, here comes Beorn and his cronies. We need to give Sir Almeric some time.” Thatch jumps up and moves to the side of the road. Pulling out a bag of ball bearings from his pack, he spreads them across the trail. He is in no shape for a fight, but if he could just slow the riders down he would worry about what comes next later. After quickly placing his trap, Thatch moves back away from the road and attempts to hide in the underbrush.
Stealth: 20.
.
Ori, not noticing the riders, says to Thatch after taking an elbow from him, "Easy partner, people come and go all the time through these parts, we just need to blend in a bit better. Almeric is working under the assumption the gang will be the next on through the doors behind him. We just need to lay low and keep our eyes out and keep our heads... There he goes, with .. beans? Well so much for keeping a low profile." Ori starts to gather his belongings, "Best get set to move or prep for a scrap."
"Clag Deireadh Fanaidh Balaichean Falbh a Ghabhail do Ghnuis Airson cac, Bod Ceann. Falbh Dairich Fhein Mhac na Galla Cliospairneach ... Taigh Nam Gasta ort Faigh e Deas Suas Fhein, Magairlean Blaigeard..." The stifled muttering in Thulish that Famh has been engaged in ever since seeing the horsemen ride into town rises to a new height of intensity as she realizes that they are headed straight for us,l and presumably straight for Baron Aldred immediately after. She takes the time to whsiper to Ori, "Travelers, yes. Pursuers at full gallop ... that's a little less common.", before shifting her mind to the waking trance in which she learned to do her magic. Using the same spell she used before to degrade the condition of the road, she focuses on a spot just in front of the lead horse and causes the ground to collapse into a deep and steep-sided washout for the horse to stumble in. She focuses on making the excavation look as if an unsuspected underground stream had suddenly worn through the earth above it and collapsed the road, and pretends to be drunk while she is casting the spell to conceal her arcane gestures and words.
=====================
Mold earth yet again, courtesy of Famh and Famh Construction and Excavation Inc. LLC LOL
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
...and then lowers her head sadly. "Poor beast. I wish there was time to slow them some other way."
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 trio continue thundering in, Thatch now concealed by the roadside. Famh has to wait until the very last minute but Beorn and his men have more to worry about than recognising her......at least for now.
The destrier....a veteren of the Crusades in Outremer spots the metallic sheen of Thatchs ball bearings and shies to the left smashing its hooves into the packed earth as it throws itself into a sudden and complete stop, already slowing but not expecting a dead stop Beorn is thrown sideways off the war horse and crashes to the ground mere inches from where Thatch is hidden. He groans and wipes away the blood from where he struck his head with an angry bellow.
The two ponies following plant their forehooves as the destrier stops throwing their riders forward almost over their heads but both men manage to stay unsteadily in their saddles, though they begin to dismount to assist their leader.
The villagers who had been mostly ignoring the companions, begin rushing over to assist but come to an uncertain halt as Beorn raises his head eyes full of fury.....
When Almeric entered the hall he clocked Alcuin as the man resembled his brother quite a lot though taller and with more delicate features, Alcuin for his part had no idea who Almeric was.
Also within the hall were an assortment of other men and woman, a youth stood beside the Barons seat in the house livery, Almeric suspected this must be the Barons son who was named Almeric as well, though the lad had been a mere boy the last time Sir Almeric had been in Albion. beside him stood Sir Grisse, an elder knight that Almeric recognised from his own past as the old knight had called in at the Dayne Manor a number of times in his youth. A young girl watched from the rear of the hall in a lavendar dress and most of the others present were dressed in simple dark woolen clothes.
Beside the seat lay two massive deerhounds who regarded Sir Almeric....and especially Fergus....with glittering eyes. As for the Baron himself he is of middling height and build, his dark curly hair speckled with grey and sporting a short salt and pepper beard. Aldred, Baron of Gorburn, could easily pass for a moderately prosperous merchant or townsman in his late forties.
Aldred’s only distinguishing features are piercing blue eyes which glint from beneath bushy black brows and a surprisingly booming voice suited to battlefield command. He is dressed predominantly in somber blacks, greys and browns. His clothes well made but lack the ostentatious style more common amongst Southern nobles.
An older man in a simple grey smock and cloak hurried forward and whispered in Baron Aldreds ear, the Baron nodded glancing quickly at Fergus before returning to Sir Almeric.
" Rise, Sir Almeric. These are heavy words to throw about in open air, but not the first time I have been targetted as such. Close the doors, none may enter or leave until I have spoken further with my distant cousin."
" Almeric, my son, please take the seat and continue daily council....Sir Grisse will assist you. I believe the next scheduled was a matter of a flour mill or somesuch?", an older man in brown wool nodded as he came forward to speak with the Barons son.
" Sir Almeric.....and your herald.....join me in chambers.", he rose and pointed the way towards a stout oak door, the old man in gray came up behind Fergus and whispered, " Go with your Master, now."
Baron Aldred held the door open for Sir Almeric and Fergus to enter the chamber.....
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)