Lucian does his best to be useful, offering to pull the cart as usual and doing his best to be cheery. When Chara begins talking to him in a quiet tone, he grows a little worried before covering up that worry as best he can.
Spoiler for Chara and the DM:
"R...really?" he stammers before managing to recompose himself. "I mean... do you think he's a danger to the group? But...he seems so nice. I'd assumed he was put there by some sort of supernatural magic, but... a dark cloud?"He shakes his head, "I...think we should keep it quiet for now...more for Bran's sake then the others really. I don't think they will mind... as long as the darkness isn't Ban's own making--and as long as he isn't an immediate threat to us. But if he doesn't already know about it, then finding out...well it could be really hard on him and he's been through enough today already." He pauses, realizing how strange it is that Bran just happened to show up in the graveyard they were sent to. Could it be that he is some sort of spy for the Count? No...surely... "All of you accepted me without a second thought. Even Lenn...aside from Nikolai's distrust, everyone else accepted him too. I think we should give him a chance to reveal whatever this is himself. If he knows about it and he isn't an enemy, I'm sure he'll tell us. If he is an enemy...well we can watch for a slip up. Besides... we don't know if he is going to even stay with us once we get back to town. But, if he does decide to, we can ask Blinsky about it right? Maybe he can help Bran."
He perks up a little when Bran starts singing. He doesn't recognize the song...the tune perhaps, but the words are unfamiliar to him. He gives Chara a quick glance, shrugging a little and giving a smile.
Once they get back to down, Lucian is eager to get back to Blinksy's shop to deliver the package. He...also doesn't really have lodging at the moment so if the shopkeeper is willing to grant him a place to sleep again he won't hesitate to take it. He glances at the posters for the festival... wolf's...head? He frowns slightly, rubbing his neck briefly and glancing down at the wolf pups.
Shaking his head, he turns to his companions, "So...do you all want to head straight over?"
"I honestly have no idea if he could make things worse for us," Chara says a bit sadly. "He seems like a good man, so I doubt that any of this is his fault... I just hope you're right that Blinsky can help him..."
Chara is still a bit nervous, but she does her best to relax. She listens to Bran's song, and it tugs at her heartstrings. It is a beautiful tune, and the bard's voice is incredible.
Chara doesn't do or say anything else of note for the remainder of the trip back except make sure that Ichabod doesn't buy anyone's soul when she isn't looking.
When Lucian asks if they should go straight to Blinsky's, Chara gives her opinion. "Yes, I think that's probably the best idea. Blinsky will probably be able to give us some insight on what to do next."
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Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
Bran lets Eithne speak while paying careful atention, the only real interruption happening when she mentions being thankful for her clothes not being ripped apart and the bard laughs heartily. It seems like a lifetime since he last did that...
When she finishes, he says:
- Yours is a tough story, Eithne. Tough and heartbreaking. But it is also a story of growth and empowerment. Though I maintain that no one should have to experience what you have gone through, I think you should be proud of the woman you have become because of it. I have no doubt that you'll be able to solve the riddles and dangers ahead of you. I'm happy to be on your team ... and gods help whoever stands in your way.
- Let's make a promise- the bard says, taking the savage woman's hand and looking at her serious - We will do everything in our power to solve our missing pieces and put an end to whoever did this to us. Yes?
...
In Vallaki, when the group is deciding what to do, the bard says:
- I should probably mention that I have nothing on myself except for my clothes and my lute. I wish the one that put me on that coffin had included a few coins, too - he chuckles - So, I don't know where you're planning to stay, if you have any kind of lodging or something, but I cannot really stay anywhere that requires any money right now. Are you planning on visiting the person you work for righ now? May I join you?
- Let's make a promise- the bard says, taking the savage woman's hand and looking at her serious - We will do everything in our power to solve our missing pieces and put an end to whoever did this to us. Yes?
...
Eithne has the feeling that she is out of breath, when she feels Bran hold her hand, give her those wonderful compliments and then finally propose the deal that could shed some light on what happened to them!
She doesn't even care about the storm of her voices in her mind - say what they will, she's having a unique moment, feeling a sensation she can't remember since she hasn't felt it and... and...
...and she finally remembers that she should answer! What will he be thinking, seeing she there, gaping at him with her azure eyes wide open?
"Bran, it's… I mean… Yes, thank you Bran!" smiles brightly the savage stranger "Both for your wonderful words, and for your proposal! It's a great idea and I accept with all my heart! Yes! Yes! Yes!"
She realizes that in the excitement of the moment she also put her other hand on his hand which was already holding hers and, slightly embarrassed at having had a reaction that to someone might have seemed excessive (but the others must have noticed? Definitely not...) she lets Bran go, concluding: "And gods help whoever stands in our way!"
Either because he shares the excitement of the last of the dusk elf maidens, or by pure coincidence, Juhowly howls with enthusiasm and wags his tail, as if to further seal the pact just concluded.
In Vallaki, when the group is deciding what to do, the bard says:
- I should probably mention that I have nothing on myself except for my clothes and my lute. I wish the one that put me on that coffin had included a few coins, too - he chuckles - So, I don't know where you're planning to stay, if you have any kind of lodging or something, but I cannot really stay anywhere that requires any money right now. Are you planning on visiting the person you work for righ now? May I join you?
"Indeed!"Eithne istinctively comes near him, at his side, speaking enthusiastically "Better to report immediately - and I think it's important that you come with us! So many and so strange things have happened, during our mission, that I'd prefer not to omit anything... Who knowswhat is important and what is not? So I would also like to tell what happened to you - and you may remember details that we do not remember. Also, so we can ask our employer to employ you right away! I am convinced that this will be definitely better for everyone, so the sooner the better!"
"Oh, and don't worry about the money," replies to his concern "I don't have any either… I guess we'll be offered accommodation. Or at worst we'll camp out. I can't offer you any piece of armor, because I don't have any. You know, I used to simply count on my reflexes to get out of the way of attacks, and on my toughness when some blow lands. But you are welcome to take a javelin from me. I usually go for bigger tools" she point with the thumb to the greataxe resting on her back"when discussions become serious".
(@Farthilien: just confirm if you take the javelin, so that I updatw inventory. Eithne had it just to be able to range in case of need, but never used in the end. If Bran might use it, itvis probably better in his hands that in Eithne's)
She then starts, in fact, leading the way to the shop of Blinsky the toymaker, urging her companions to come.
The bard nods, showing his agreement with Eithne and also a clear gesture of relief. He would have continued alone if necessary, but he very much prefered saying with them all. At least for the time being.
He wondered who this employer might be, and if they could help him somehow. "Well, only one way to know", he thought.
When offered the javelin, he doubts at first:
- Hmmm. Javelins are definitely not my forte, but ... it's better to have a weapon that none at all, right? Who knows if my magic will fail me at any given moment...! Yes, I think I'll give it a try. Thank you, Eithne - he says, smiling warmly.
With that, he's ready to follow the group to the location of their employer, staying a little in the background while "know faces" lead the way.
(You're welcome! It will be probably more useful for you than for me anyway)
"Agreed!" Eithne smiles back (why it is so easy to smile in this man's company?) "I'll try to stay between you and the eventual physical dangers, but who knows? Better to always have a last resort weapon".
As you approach Blinsky'sshop, it is getting dark. The streets are cast in shadow and what little light there is only emphasizes the encroaching darkness. You approach the shop and, looking through the window, you see Blinskyseemingly meekly listening to a human man yelling at him. Piccolosits on Blinsky'sshoulder, as well. As you draw nearer, you hear snippets of the confrontation: "Not close enough!...I'll hang you by your...Better get it right next...burn this place to the ground!" The man himself is short and swarthy, as far as you can tell, with a bald head shining in the oil lamps of Blinsky'sshop. You notice that one shoulder appears a little misshapen and you see a glint from something on his wrist. He storms out of the shop as you walk up to it, rushing off into the night.
You walk into the shop and Blinsky'seyes light up. "Hyello, my friends! Blinsky very happy to see you. Piccolo, too." The monkey jumps up and down on Blinsky's shoulder. Suddenly noticing Bran, his smile fades a little. "I see you hyave brought new customer to Blinsky's shop. Please look around at all my lovely toys. Remember, 'Is no Blinsky; Is no fun!'"
"Blinsky! I'm sorry the man before was giving you trouble! Do you wish me to have a word or two with him?" Eithne frowns; but soon relaxes again, given the good new she had "We had fun. And success. And Bran, here, our new dear friend" she puts an arm protettive on his shoulders "Would be ready to sign to have fun with us".
The savage stranger then tells about the success, gives the book, but also tells in detail about the pranks, the pure idiot, the incognito doll-girl (asking who she is - Blinsky will know! He has dolls of her!), Ichabore (she is still concerned about the imp staying with the group), the crow, and, of course, how they found poor Bran.
As Eithne begins to share what happened, Blinskylooks panicked and shushes her. "Not here," he says, "Not here!" Looking at Bran, he says, "You are sure vee can trust him? And vere is girl? Zere was girl with you, yes?" His face grows more worried.
When Bran and Eithne talk of having no money, he gives them a surprised look... It was odd, that he had coin and they didn't. Even if it was just a couple coppers--his life's savings. He chuckles, "Heh...I...don't have much either."
When they head into the shop, he gives the stranger a timid glance as the fellow storms away. He wonders what was going on, but isn't sure if asking would be a great idea. When Eithne says something about Bran being all ready to sign up, Lucian gives her a surprised and confused look, "But... he doesn't even know what we are doing... I mean... It would be great if he signed up but..." He looks to Blinsky, "Uh...well he's had something awful happen to him, and...well we don't know why. Do you think there is anything we can do to help him?" He doesn't want to explain what happened to Bran, that's the bard's story to tell. But he does have a feeling that it has something to do with Strahd or one of the vampire's followers... then again it could just be some random demon who decided to play pranks, but who could really know? Either way, it seemed odd that the bard turns up in the same graveyard they just happened to be searching. He can't help but feel like it is connected somehow...not to mention what Chara told him earlier...
He glances at Bran and gives an awkward chuckle, "It's up to you how much you want to say. ...But I think it's up to Blinsky here to decide whether or not you can sign on. We can't exactly just...tell you what we are doing...because...well...we can't." He diverts his gaze for a moment, then lifts it again as if to say something more. Finding he doesn't know what to say, he just falls to the back of the company and waits to see what happens.
Eithne looks in Blinsky's eyes firmly and convinced: "Yes, I am sure, we can trust him. Brings us wherever you want and let's do it. He shares our dreams. And lived the same nightmare I did. He needs us not less than we need him. His help will be invaluable, because he will never betray us. And Onika..."
The savage stranger lowers her azure eyes, saddened: "The same night we met the Pure Idiot with the Doll Girl" she points to one of the dolls with the face of the mysterious girl "Onika went missing. We were not able to find her, so we assumed her dead or lost... and went on with what we had to do. And her loss is one more reason to welcome every help we can" she puts her arm on Bran's shoulder. "Trust him, Blinsky. We will need him. Nobody will have to regret".
Bran never imagined he would be led to a toy shop. What a strange place to deal with something the group had found in a graveyard. But then again, after all that had happened, he tried to keep an open mind and just go with the flow.
He lingered a few seconds before entering, taking a look at all the toys and imagining how Cassie would be jumping excitedly if she'd ever laid eyes in such a trove of fun. The thought pained him and he clutched his silver locket pendant trying to imagine a brighter future in which he'd be able not only to see his daughter again, but also take her to a shop like that one and even buying her a couple of toys.
His mind quickly came back to the present moment, specially when the group entered to find a short man yelling at the owner. Bran looked at him, trying to make more details as the man stormed out of the shop. Well, hopefully they'd never cross paths with that one again.
- Erm... did that man just threaten you with burning down this place !? - he asks the owner, a little concerned.
When the conversation leads directly to his presence in the shop, Bran tries to sound calmed and understanding of everyone's positions.
- It's okay, Eithne. And Lucian, you're absolutely right. Blinsky has a right to be concerned and I understand it is his call to allow me to enroll with you - he then adresses the shop owner directly - I will explain how I came to meet them. Do you want me to do it here or shall we move to a more private space?
When they find themselves in a more appropiate space to speak, Bran continues:
- Well, my situation is strange enough and I myself do not understand any of it, so I'll just be straightforward: a couple of days ago I woke up inside a coffin in the graveyard where these friends were looking for something. I don't know how I came to be there, who did this to me and the reason behind it. I'm not even sure when it really happened! Prior to waking up there I was just having a normal day with my wife and daughter in Krezk. Went to bed as every night and next thing I know, I am trapped inside a coffin. Gods know I can't thank them enough for finding me in time and letting me out. I don't know if I'll ever be able to repay that. All I know is I want to find out who did this and why, and if my wife and daughter are safe. And I believe I'll have more chances if I stay with this group than being by myself. I would like to help them - he points to the group - in any way I can, because while I don't really know what they are up to, I have the feeling our interests are aligned. I think we all want these kind of things to stop happening.
After his speech Bran stops for a few seconds, looking at Blinksy first and then at his newfound friends:
- Look, I don't know what else to say. I know these are just words and words don't build trust by themselves. If there is anything I can do for you to trust me, please tell me and I will do it to the best of my abilities.
"He would be ready to take action for a better Barovia, Blinsky..." insists Eithne "What more could be expected by someone that does not know anything more about us? Explain all to him and he will be signin before you are finished".
In a lower voice, only for the toymaker's ears: "I know what he is through... He is like me, Blinsky. I'd prefer not, but I know it is so. He has nothing left, by now. Nothing but us. He will be the most loyal and determined among us. Don't waste this opportunity".
As Chara watches Blinsky's customer storm out raving like a lunatic. That was... concerning.
Inside the shop she mostly listens to Eithne and the others for a while. But she takes note when Lucian points out that Bran doesn't even know what Blinsky is having them do. On the other hand, if the bard signs, then they'll know for certain that he isn't one of Strahd's spies... right?
"Eithne, Lucian has a point..." the she-devil says. "I think that Bran should really know what he's signing up for... and it is Blinsky's call. That and... well... he has a wife and children. Is it really a good idea to have him sign up for a mission like this one?"
She considers saying more on the subject, but decides against it. Instead, she has something else she needs to ask.
"Speaking of... um... should I have Ichabod sign that paper we all signed? I'm not entirely sure if he's part of the contract by proxy since he's bound as my familiar."
There's a sad light in Eithne's azure eyes as she looks at Chara for a moment, but she doesn't answer aloud. Not with Bran nearby. She certainly does not want to cruelly deny him hope! But she thinks: 'No, Chara... Bran had wife and children, but he doesn't have them anymore. Who knows how long ago he had them. And what happened to them in the meantime. I wish she still had them, but it's all too… similar. He is like me. He has nothing left. Except us'.
However, the savage stranger has already told Blinsky everything she could tell him. She doesn't see a single good reason not to make Bran the same offer that was made to them. So she patiently waits to find out what Blinsky decides, petting Juhowly in the meantime.
Lucian gives a small chuckle at the mention of Ichabod signing the paper, but quickly goes quiet again before saying, "Honestly...I think it would be a good idea. It would ensure his loyalty...somewhat at least." He glances at Chara before looking at Eithne as well...catching the sad glint in her eye. He briefly wonders what is going through her head, but doesn't question it. If she want's to talk about it she can.
He turns back to Chara again, clearly wanting to say something...but he doesn't want to do so in this space. He tilts his head towards Bran doing his best to indicate that he is thinking about their conversation from earlier. If Bran does end up signing on, that is a good indication that he is not a spy. But, that won't change whatever this cloud is. If the bard is unaware of it, someone should tell him... If he is going to sign on with them, then Blinsky and the others need to know. Whether or not it is a threat...Lucian hopes that they can help him out.
Chara exchanges a look with Lucian... his expression tells her what he's thinking. She nods in agreement.
"Bran... I... I think that I need to talk to you about something in private before you make any important decisions," the she-devil sounds uncertain of herself as she speaks, and she looks a bit worried. She doesn't want to make Bran feel any worse than he already does... but he has a right and a need to know if he doesn't already. She glances down at Ichabod, as he is the source of her information.
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Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
Bran turns his attention from Blinsky to Chara and moves towards her. Maybe giving the toymaker a little space will help him make his decision, or even ask whatever question he could have about him to Eithne and the rest more comfortably.
- What is it, Chara? It looks serious. Is it about my song? Was it that awful? - he jokes trying to hide that he is in fact nervous, but the sigh that accompanies the joke clearly gives away his feelings. Although he understands why his presence was being questioned, he wasn't enjoying being the centre of attention of all this situation in the least.
Lucian looks from Chara to Bran and back again before inching backwards a little, unsure if he should be in on this conversation or not... then again, Chara told him without telling anyone else, so perhaps it would make sense for him to stay? He gives Chara a questioning look, but doesn't want to ask the question outright.
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Lucian does his best to be useful, offering to pull the cart as usual and doing his best to be cheery. When Chara begins talking to him in a quiet tone, he grows a little worried before covering up that worry as best he can.
Spoiler for Chara and the DM:
"R...really?" he stammers before managing to recompose himself. "I mean... do you think he's a danger to the group? But...he seems so nice. I'd assumed he was put there by some sort of supernatural magic, but... a dark cloud?" He shakes his head, "I...think we should keep it quiet for now...more for Bran's sake then the others really. I don't think they will mind... as long as the darkness isn't Ban's own making--and as long as he isn't an immediate threat to us. But if he doesn't already know about it, then finding out...well it could be really hard on him and he's been through enough today already." He pauses, realizing how strange it is that Bran just happened to show up in the graveyard they were sent to. Could it be that he is some sort of spy for the Count? No...surely... "All of you accepted me without a second thought. Even Lenn...aside from Nikolai's distrust, everyone else accepted him too. I think we should give him a chance to reveal whatever this is himself. If he knows about it and he isn't an enemy, I'm sure he'll tell us. If he is an enemy...well we can watch for a slip up. Besides... we don't know if he is going to even stay with us once we get back to town. But, if he does decide to, we can ask Blinsky about it right? Maybe he can help Bran."
He perks up a little when Bran starts singing. He doesn't recognize the song...the tune perhaps, but the words are unfamiliar to him. He gives Chara a quick glance, shrugging a little and giving a smile.
Once they get back to down, Lucian is eager to get back to Blinksy's shop to deliver the package. He...also doesn't really have lodging at the moment so if the shopkeeper is willing to grant him a place to sleep again he won't hesitate to take it. He glances at the posters for the festival... wolf's...head? He frowns slightly, rubbing his neck briefly and glancing down at the wolf pups.
Shaking his head, he turns to his companions, "So...do you all want to head straight over?"
Spoiler for Lucian:
"I honestly have no idea if he could make things worse for us," Chara says a bit sadly. "He seems like a good man, so I doubt that any of this is his fault... I just hope you're right that Blinsky can help him..."
Chara is still a bit nervous, but she does her best to relax. She listens to Bran's song, and it tugs at her heartstrings. It is a beautiful tune, and the bard's voice is incredible.
Chara doesn't do or say anything else of note for the remainder of the trip back except make sure that Ichabod doesn't buy anyone's soul when she isn't looking.
When Lucian asks if they should go straight to Blinsky's, Chara gives her opinion. "Yes, I think that's probably the best idea. Blinsky will probably be able to give us some insight on what to do next."
Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
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Bran lets Eithne speak while paying careful atention, the only real interruption happening when she mentions being thankful for her clothes not being ripped apart and the bard laughs heartily. It seems like a lifetime since he last did that...
When she finishes, he says:
- Yours is a tough story, Eithne. Tough and heartbreaking. But it is also a story of growth and empowerment. Though I maintain that no one should have to experience what you have gone through, I think you should be proud of the woman you have become because of it. I have no doubt that you'll be able to solve the riddles and dangers ahead of you. I'm happy to be on your team ... and gods help whoever stands in your way.
- Let's make a promise - the bard says, taking the savage woman's hand and looking at her serious - We will do everything in our power to solve our missing pieces and put an end to whoever did this to us. Yes?
...
In Vallaki, when the group is deciding what to do, the bard says:
- I should probably mention that I have nothing on myself except for my clothes and my lute. I wish the one that put me on that coffin had included a few coins, too - he chuckles - So, I don't know where you're planning to stay, if you have any kind of lodging or something, but I cannot really stay anywhere that requires any money right now. Are you planning on visiting the person you work for righ now? May I join you?
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Eithne has the feeling that she is out of breath, when she feels Bran hold her hand, give her those wonderful compliments and then finally propose the deal that could shed some light on what happened to them!
She doesn't even care about the storm of her voices in her mind - say what they will, she's having a unique moment, feeling a sensation she can't remember since she hasn't felt it and... and...
...and she finally remembers that she should answer! What will he be thinking, seeing she there, gaping at him with her azure eyes wide open?
"Bran, it's… I mean… Yes, thank you Bran!" smiles brightly the savage stranger "Both for your wonderful words, and for your proposal! It's a great idea and I accept with all my heart! Yes! Yes! Yes!"
She realizes that in the excitement of the moment she also put her other hand on his hand which was already holding hers and, slightly embarrassed at having had a reaction that to someone might have seemed excessive (but the others must have noticed? Definitely not...) she lets Bran go, concluding: "And gods help whoever stands in our way!"
Either because he shares the excitement of the last of the dusk elf maidens, or by pure coincidence, Juhowly howls with enthusiasm and wags his tail, as if to further seal the pact just concluded.
"Indeed!" Eithne istinctively comes near him, at his side, speaking enthusiastically "Better to report immediately - and I think it's important that you come with us! So many and so strange things have happened, during our mission, that I'd prefer not to omit anything... Who knows what is important and what is not? So I would also like to tell what happened to you - and you may remember details that we do not remember. Also, so we can ask our employer to employ you right away! I am convinced that this will be definitely better for everyone, so the sooner the better!"
"Oh, and don't worry about the money," replies to his concern "I don't have any either… I guess we'll be offered accommodation. Or at worst we'll camp out. I can't offer you any piece of armor, because I don't have any. You know, I used to simply count on my reflexes to get out of the way of attacks, and on my toughness when some blow lands. But you are welcome to take a javelin from me. I usually go for bigger tools" she point with the thumb to the greataxe resting on her back "when discussions become serious".
(@Farthilien: just confirm if you take the javelin, so that I updatw inventory. Eithne had it just to be able to range in case of need, but never used in the end. If Bran might use it, itvis probably better in his hands that in Eithne's)
She then starts, in fact, leading the way to the shop of Blinsky the toymaker, urging her companions to come.
The bard nods, showing his agreement with Eithne and also a clear gesture of relief. He would have continued alone if necessary, but he very much prefered saying with them all. At least for the time being.
He wondered who this employer might be, and if they could help him somehow. "Well, only one way to know", he thought.
When offered the javelin, he doubts at first:
- Hmmm. Javelins are definitely not my forte, but ... it's better to have a weapon that none at all, right? Who knows if my magic will fail me at any given moment...! Yes, I think I'll give it a try. Thank you, Eithne - he says, smiling warmly.
With that, he's ready to follow the group to the location of their employer, staying a little in the background while "know faces" lead the way.
(Javelin equipped! Thanks!!)
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
(You're welcome! It will be probably more useful for you than for me anyway)
"Agreed!" Eithne smiles back (why it is so easy to smile in this man's company?) "I'll try to stay between you and the eventual physical dangers, but who knows? Better to always have a last resort weapon".
As you approach Blinsky's shop, it is getting dark. The streets are cast in shadow and what little light there is only emphasizes the encroaching darkness. You approach the shop and, looking through the window, you see Blinsky seemingly meekly listening to a human man yelling at him. Piccolo sits on Blinsky's shoulder, as well. As you draw nearer, you hear snippets of the confrontation: "Not close enough!...I'll hang you by your...Better get it right next...burn this place to the ground!" The man himself is short and swarthy, as far as you can tell, with a bald head shining in the oil lamps of Blinsky's shop. You notice that one shoulder appears a little misshapen and you see a glint from something on his wrist. He storms out of the shop as you walk up to it, rushing off into the night.
You walk into the shop and Blinsky's eyes light up. "Hyello, my friends! Blinsky very happy to see you. Piccolo, too." The monkey jumps up and down on Blinsky's shoulder. Suddenly noticing Bran, his smile fades a little. "I see you hyave brought new customer to Blinsky's shop. Please look around at all my lovely toys. Remember, 'Is no Blinsky; Is no fun!'"
Tamryn - lvl 4 Wood Elf Rogue - Circle of Light Campaign || Drusilla - lvl 1 Half-Elf Ranger - Sleeping Gods || Grrzark - lvl 1 Goblin Barbarian - Danger at Darkshelf Quarry || DM - LTG - Curse of Strahd
"Blinsky! I'm sorry the man before was giving you trouble! Do you wish me to have a word or two with him?" Eithne frowns; but soon relaxes again, given the good new she had "We had fun. And success. And Bran, here, our new dear friend" she puts an arm protettive on his shoulders "Would be ready to sign to have fun with us".
The savage stranger then tells about the success, gives the book, but also tells in detail about the pranks, the pure idiot, the incognito doll-girl (asking who she is - Blinsky will know! He has dolls of her!), Ichabore (she is still concerned about the imp staying with the group), the crow, and, of course, how they found poor Bran.
As Eithne begins to share what happened, Blinsky looks panicked and shushes her. "Not here," he says, "Not here!" Looking at Bran, he says, "You are sure vee can trust him? And vere is girl? Zere was girl with you, yes?" His face grows more worried.
Tamryn - lvl 4 Wood Elf Rogue - Circle of Light Campaign || Drusilla - lvl 1 Half-Elf Ranger - Sleeping Gods || Grrzark - lvl 1 Goblin Barbarian - Danger at Darkshelf Quarry || DM - LTG - Curse of Strahd
Lucian gives Chara a nod, "I hope so too."
When Bran and Eithne talk of having no money, he gives them a surprised look... It was odd, that he had coin and they didn't. Even if it was just a couple coppers--his life's savings. He chuckles, "Heh...I...don't have much either."
When they head into the shop, he gives the stranger a timid glance as the fellow storms away. He wonders what was going on, but isn't sure if asking would be a great idea. When Eithne says something about Bran being all ready to sign up, Lucian gives her a surprised and confused look, "But... he doesn't even know what we are doing... I mean... It would be great if he signed up but..." He looks to Blinsky, "Uh...well he's had something awful happen to him, and...well we don't know why. Do you think there is anything we can do to help him?" He doesn't want to explain what happened to Bran, that's the bard's story to tell. But he does have a feeling that it has something to do with Strahd or one of the vampire's followers... then again it could just be some random demon who decided to play pranks, but who could really know? Either way, it seemed odd that the bard turns up in the same graveyard they just happened to be searching. He can't help but feel like it is connected somehow...not to mention what Chara told him earlier...
He glances at Bran and gives an awkward chuckle, "It's up to you how much you want to say. ...But I think it's up to Blinsky here to decide whether or not you can sign on. We can't exactly just...tell you what we are doing...because...well...we can't." He diverts his gaze for a moment, then lifts it again as if to say something more. Finding he doesn't know what to say, he just falls to the back of the company and waits to see what happens.
Eithne looks in Blinsky's eyes firmly and convinced: "Yes, I am sure, we can trust him. Brings us wherever you want and let's do it. He shares our dreams. And lived the same nightmare I did. He needs us not less than we need him. His help will be invaluable, because he will never betray us. And Onika..."
The savage stranger lowers her azure eyes, saddened: "The same night we met the Pure Idiot with the Doll Girl" she points to one of the dolls with the face of the mysterious girl "Onika went missing. We were not able to find her, so we assumed her dead or lost... and went on with what we had to do. And her loss is one more reason to welcome every help we can" she puts her arm on Bran's shoulder. "Trust him, Blinsky. We will need him. Nobody will have to regret".
Bran never imagined he would be led to a toy shop. What a strange place to deal with something the group had found in a graveyard. But then again, after all that had happened, he tried to keep an open mind and just go with the flow.
He lingered a few seconds before entering, taking a look at all the toys and imagining how Cassie would be jumping excitedly if she'd ever laid eyes in such a trove of fun. The thought pained him and he clutched his silver locket pendant trying to imagine a brighter future in which he'd be able not only to see his daughter again, but also take her to a shop like that one and even buying her a couple of toys.
His mind quickly came back to the present moment, specially when the group entered to find a short man yelling at the owner. Bran looked at him, trying to make more details as the man stormed out of the shop. Well, hopefully they'd never cross paths with that one again.
- Erm... did that man just threaten you with burning down this place !? - he asks the owner, a little concerned.
When the conversation leads directly to his presence in the shop, Bran tries to sound calmed and understanding of everyone's positions.
- It's okay, Eithne. And Lucian, you're absolutely right. Blinsky has a right to be concerned and I understand it is his call to allow me to enroll with you - he then adresses the shop owner directly - I will explain how I came to meet them. Do you want me to do it here or shall we move to a more private space?
When they find themselves in a more appropiate space to speak, Bran continues:
- Well, my situation is strange enough and I myself do not understand any of it, so I'll just be straightforward: a couple of days ago I woke up inside a coffin in the graveyard where these friends were looking for something. I don't know how I came to be there, who did this to me and the reason behind it. I'm not even sure when it really happened! Prior to waking up there I was just having a normal day with my wife and daughter in Krezk. Went to bed as every night and next thing I know, I am trapped inside a coffin. Gods know I can't thank them enough for finding me in time and letting me out. I don't know if I'll ever be able to repay that. All I know is I want to find out who did this and why, and if my wife and daughter are safe. And I believe I'll have more chances if I stay with this group than being by myself. I would like to help them - he points to the group - in any way I can, because while I don't really know what they are up to, I have the feeling our interests are aligned. I think we all want these kind of things to stop happening.
After his speech Bran stops for a few seconds, looking at Blinksy first and then at his newfound friends:
- Look, I don't know what else to say. I know these are just words and words don't build trust by themselves. If there is anything I can do for you to trust me, please tell me and I will do it to the best of my abilities.
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
(I'll leave a perception roll in cas I can get any more details about the yelling man. Maybe to see what glinted in the man's wrist? 14)
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
"He would be ready to take action for a better Barovia, Blinsky..." insists Eithne "What more could be expected by someone that does not know anything more about us? Explain all to him and he will be signin before you are finished".
In a lower voice, only for the toymaker's ears: "I know what he is through... He is like me, Blinsky. I'd prefer not, but I know it is so. He has nothing left, by now. Nothing but us. He will be the most loyal and determined among us. Don't waste this opportunity".
As Chara watches Blinsky's customer storm out raving like a lunatic. That was... concerning.
Inside the shop she mostly listens to Eithne and the others for a while. But she takes note when Lucian points out that Bran doesn't even know what Blinsky is having them do. On the other hand, if the bard signs, then they'll know for certain that he isn't one of Strahd's spies... right?
"Eithne, Lucian has a point..." the she-devil says. "I think that Bran should really know what he's signing up for... and it is Blinsky's call. That and... well... he has a wife and children. Is it really a good idea to have him sign up for a mission like this one?"
She considers saying more on the subject, but decides against it. Instead, she has something else she needs to ask.
"Speaking of... um... should I have Ichabod sign that paper we all signed? I'm not entirely sure if he's part of the contract by proxy since he's bound as my familiar."
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There's a sad light in Eithne's azure eyes as she looks at Chara for a moment, but she doesn't answer aloud. Not with Bran nearby. She certainly does not want to cruelly deny him hope! But she thinks: 'No, Chara... Bran had wife and children, but he doesn't have them anymore. Who knows how long ago he had them. And what happened to them in the meantime. I wish she still had them, but it's all too… similar. He is like me. He has nothing left. Except us'.
However, the savage stranger has already told Blinsky everything she could tell him. She doesn't see a single good reason not to make Bran the same offer that was made to them. So she patiently waits to find out what Blinsky decides, petting Juhowly in the meantime.
Lucian gives a small chuckle at the mention of Ichabod signing the paper, but quickly goes quiet again before saying, "Honestly...I think it would be a good idea. It would ensure his loyalty...somewhat at least." He glances at Chara before looking at Eithne as well...catching the sad glint in her eye. He briefly wonders what is going through her head, but doesn't question it. If she want's to talk about it she can.
He turns back to Chara again, clearly wanting to say something...but he doesn't want to do so in this space. He tilts his head towards Bran doing his best to indicate that he is thinking about their conversation from earlier. If Bran does end up signing on, that is a good indication that he is not a spy. But, that won't change whatever this cloud is. If the bard is unaware of it, someone should tell him... If he is going to sign on with them, then Blinsky and the others need to know. Whether or not it is a threat...Lucian hopes that they can help him out.
Chara exchanges a look with Lucian... his expression tells her what he's thinking. She nods in agreement.
"Bran... I... I think that I need to talk to you about something in private before you make any important decisions," the she-devil sounds uncertain of herself as she speaks, and she looks a bit worried. She doesn't want to make Bran feel any worse than he already does... but he has a right and a need to know if he doesn't already. She glances down at Ichabod, as he is the source of her information.
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Bran turns his attention from Blinsky to Chara and moves towards her. Maybe giving the toymaker a little space will help him make his decision, or even ask whatever question he could have about him to Eithne and the rest more comfortably.
- What is it, Chara? It looks serious. Is it about my song? Was it that awful? - he jokes trying to hide that he is in fact nervous, but the sigh that accompanies the joke clearly gives away his feelings. Although he understands why his presence was being questioned, he wasn't enjoying being the centre of attention of all this situation in the least.
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Lucian looks from Chara to Bran and back again before inching backwards a little, unsure if he should be in on this conversation or not... then again, Chara told him without telling anyone else, so perhaps it would make sense for him to stay? He gives Chara a questioning look, but doesn't want to ask the question outright.