This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Savid looks at Noel askance, as if Noel was speaking nonsense. Clearly the elf doubted his words, but in the end, it didn't matter much whether it was true or not. In the end, the elf shrugged, saying If you insist. I mean no offense, but such a thing has never been heard of. The blessing of a preist maybe, or the enhancement of a wizard, but if stories could give such boons, why have they never? He raised a hand to stop any arguments, in the same way an atheist might say "you believe what you will, and I shall as well" but he seemed to be recovering slowly as they moved.
Once stopped, Savid moves from the cart, some of his agility showing finally. Everyone resting, observing or otherwise paying attention to the general area during the hour long reprieve. (Beren perception, gigantomax: 3)
Chance Roll 1: 13
Chance Roll 2: 1
Specific: 11 + 6
As Beren continues to have the worst eyesight and hearing known to man (poor guy!) Noel ends up discovering a small satchel, hidden just behind some nearby shrubbery. Upon inspection, he finds a set of common clothes sized for a human adult. The clothes are bland, and colorless, as if depression itself had seeped into them, but they seemed harmless. Savid takes notice once Noel begins to unravel it, flinching.
That is the stashed clothing of some were creature. Though whether raven or wolf you can never tell. Nor can I tell how long it's been here... he says after inspecting the area. Be on your guard - it could easily be as far away as it is near. Though I haven't sensed anything in the woods nearby.
Nothing else of note occors other than the sun shifting behind the mask of clouds as they part slowly, revealing a sheer but never completely open view of it. The fog surrounding you all allowing you to see for some great distance. The hour passes, and everyone either sits in the cart, or walks alongside it to avoid further frustration/awkwardness after Jack is once more hitched to it after shifting. Everyone intent on getting to Vallaki as soon as possible.
Chance 1: 18
Chance 2: 15
Jack: 7
Noel: 7
Beren: 8
Jack embraces his inner animal, becoming one with it, as his perception is without peer, unfortunately, it is for naught, as nothing of note occurs but atleast the party is sure of it! This time, you've managed to make it to the fork in the road you were at before altering course.
(I'll proceed for now. And sorry for rolling for you, but this would take so much longer if i paused just to say "X roll Y")At this point, you all choose to either assist in pulling the cart, or abandoning it entirely.
(Please make your decision clear!)
By now, the day is dragging on and the sun is beginning to set, though you have a good 2 hours before it trades places with the moon. Do you proceed, or stay? Savid gives you all general ideas of how long/far away Vallaki is from there, at this point another 5-6 hours.
(@Raiketsu: Although it probably goes without saying, I have no problems with it for the sake of expediency. Same for doing any saves)
Although there are plenty of things in idle conversation to grab Jack's attention, none seemed to spark the man's curiosity's more than Savid's commentary about Noel's discovery! "A Were creature? Hah! I suppose I shouldn't be so surprised given the state of these lands!" Jack said with a bit of a chuckle to his voice. "Best to leave them be, my friend. Whether they be raven or wolf or some other manner of Were altogether, I would imagine none would take too kindly to having their things taken, let alone touched by unfamiliar hands. And we though I enjoy the occasional distraction, I'm afraid our dance card is rather full today."
Jack then rubbed his chin in thought before adding in a more serious tone, "Best to keep its placement in mind however... Just in case." At that, Jack had once more laid back down in the cart to continue to rest, if though now with more troubled thoughts. Nonetheless, once he felt his strength returned, so too had his concern equally waned in favor of once again enjoying stretching both his legs and testing the strength of his more primal forms.
Some time later at the crossing....
If Jack by the time they arrived at the crossing and felt he could presson on a little further, than he'd did so without a second thought! But regardless of whether he had yet the strength or not to press on for a bit more in primal form, his attention in part went skyward by then to get a measure of the time... before shaking his head and look a touch disappointed. After which he'd be sure to pause and revert as needed to address the group with a faux sad frown on his face. "So close yet so far. And to think, we might've even been able to make a decent mint of this cart, if nothing else upon reaching town! But alas, even if I were to assume a form with the strength to pull and sight to manage in the dark, I fear we may yet be better off obscuring it off the road a bit and carrying on by foot." He expressed to the group.
"Not that we'd get there in time or any faster mind you, but... a cross road makes for an easy marker to retrieve the cart later if we had the need, wouldn't you say? And perhaps at the time we may yet have even have a proper... eh... 'friend' that could handle such heavy burden, wouldn't you say? Either way, I leave the decision to you two! .... Unless, of course, there's a split in choices."
(lol, I guess that blow from Strahd damaged him permanently :'D. I don't mind you rolling for me, it does keep things moving faster and its not like it's likely to change the results. Just so it doesn't get overlooked...Savid didn't respond to Beren's second set of questions about the missing girl. He asked where she was taken from, and how long ago it was.)
Beren takes note of Savid's remark about the clothing. It seemed odd to him that one would just assume the abandoned cloths belong to a lycanthrope, but that just means that such creatures must be common place in this realm. This place just keeps getting better and better it would seem. Regardless, he says nothing, though he does think it wise to move on as soon as possible. If this were creature were to take issue with them now...even from just catching Noel's scent on the cloths, it might decide to track them if it doesn't show up earlier.
When they reach the crossroads, Beren nods to Jack saying, "I have no issue with this." He doesn't really care much for the cart, its only real use was carting them along while they were still weak from their wounds. If Savid is well enough to walk on his own, the cart is no longer a necessity.
He looks up at the sky as if to confirm that they really won't reach the town before nightfall, only to let out a quiet sigh. "Even if we cannot reach our destination before nightfall, I say lets continue on. At the very least we should make use of the remaining daylight even if we still end up camping along the road tonight. It will shorten our journey tomorrow." Personally, he would have no qualms with simply walking through the night until they reached the town. They would only miss a few hours of sleep, but they would rest within the safety of civilization. However, he does realize that Jack has been pulling the rest of them this whole time--even if his animal forms enable him to do so with no more stress then if he were simply crying a pack, it wouldn't be right to ask him to press on with the rest of them. So he will leave his opinion of that unspoken for now, waiting to see what the others choose.
(Apologies, I'll update, i was thinking about what he was goign to say and then all the rolls... just forgot.)
Back in time during the conversation)))
And she dissappeared barely two days ago. I went out not long after. She was taken from the Vistani camp just outside the town proper. The thing is WE don't know much more than you. She was simply gone, noticed, and we proceeded to seek her out - blind. The only thing that's changed is w- well I and us know where she's not. I'm sure the other scouts have already returned, or will be soon.
Beren simply nods in response, having expected a similar answer. Still, it was good to know what sort of timeframe they were working with…two days though, doesn’t sound promising.
Eventually the three of you decide to abandon the cart where it is for the sake of easier travel. Savid doesn't care either way, and the quartet of a party begin to move once more down the slowly darkening road. Though light still persists for the next few hours at the very least. Your vista is met with much of the same, well travelled dirt road, with many many tree's, and the seemingly unending, pervasive fog.
After nearly three hours of travelling unimpeded, ahead in the road you spot the corpse of a dead wolf. Spear-wounds and crossbow bolts feathering it, though no sign of whomever caused it's demise. Savid seems unconcerned, explaining Likely it was met by one of the scouts or even a group returning from Vallaki, it likely attacked and was dealt with. I would not concern myself with it overmuch. But by my guess, we're nearing the bridge... he said as he looked up to judge the time, as the last rays of light faded from the world more than half an hour ago, replaced by the gloom of a muted full moon, judging you all from above.
I'd say were about two to three hours away from Vallaki.
Jack clicks his tongue a bit and shakes his head. "They could've at least had the decency to take it with them to repurpose the remains, or moved it further off the road." He said chidingly. "But, I take it the people of Vallaki care not much for such customs, if not for wolves in general? I can't recall if you cover that bit or not, so needless to say, I am curious."
Whether given some answers or not, his attention shifts to the others afterwards. Although he had to squint a bit at first as whatever item Beren opted to fill with divine grace partially blinded the elf, as he'd spent the past half-hour keep largely an eye out into the dim and dark beyond its radiance. "Either way, let's pick up the pace a bit. Much as I'd rather not be consider a hypocrite in not tending to the dead, the wilder things we'll see to it yet, if not the creatures dear Savid here warned us about. And even if not, time is not exactly our friend these days." On that note, Jack moved to press on down the road giving the wolf a fairly wide-berth, but pausing before fully passing to bow to it and utter a phrase in druidic.
The light behind the mask flickers slightly as Beren glances briefly at the dead wolf. He doesn't spare it much more then that glance however, seeing no point in wondering about the death of the animal. From what they've seen of this land, it is a cruel one. A dead wolf is the least of their concern--at least it looked to have been killed by humanoids rather than torn apart by something more sinister.
He nods slightly when Jack mentions picking up the pace, and silently does so seeing no use in wasting his breath. The sooner they reach the village the better.
After a long moment of silence, Noel ultimately decides to press on, despite his misgivings on the whole current situation. Savid agree's with the decision.
Having just passed the bridge a while ago, you all press on at a faster pace. Savid guiding you, not that he really had to at this point. But after two hours, Vallaki comes into sight. The land was much as it had been since you got here. The trees pressing in on the road, their upper reaches seeming to watch your every move though you knew that wasn't true. This land had a way of haunting your thoughts, and every-day normal things seemed out of place, or to have a malice that wasn't normally there. The fog, that ever-present fog limiting visibility to a few hundred feet when combined with the darkness, and the muted sky. The wind had picked up again, and the tree's howled their lamentations in a chorus-dirge.
Finally, the town came into sight another forty minutes later. Only just barely lit with torches at the front.
The Old Svalich Road meanders into a valley watched over by dark, brooding mountains to the north and south. The woods recede, revealing a sullen mountain burg surrounded by a wooden palisade. Thick fog presses up against this wall, as though looking for a way inside, hoping to catch the town aslumber.
The dirt road ends at a set of sturdy iron gates with a pair of shadowy figures standing behind them. Planted in the ground and flanking the road outside the gates are a half-dozen pikes with wolves’ heads impaled on them.
Finally, Noel chimes in, saying, his voice quivering with some hesitation uncharacteristic to what Jack knew of the man.
Jack... Beren. I've been thinking for a while.he says, eys averting for a moment as he carefully considers his words. Hand instinctively reaching for his candle for just a moment. We blasted the first few fiends we saw with ease.... we managed to avoid some barbarian-like beings.... but then when Strahd showed up, he nearly killed Beren in a single attack.... then back at that dragon mansion.... we almost died again, if not for Tymora watching over us... I.. I need some time to think, to myself. And this will be the first real civilization we've come across.
I think I'm going to stay here in Vallaki for a while. I'm sorry, especially to you jack, but.. I just can't shake it out of my mind. What Strahd did to that boy.... He ended his life just to show us how little we... or they matter to him, and how easily he can just snuff us out.
Savid grunts for the first time, saying I will let them know you aided in saving me. You may not be able to stay in town, but you will be able to stay in one of our dusk elf tents atleast. As long as you're willing to work, you will be fed fairly. But Vallaki is ahead of us, let us go.
After whatever responses you give to Noels comments, you all begin to approach the gates. Instead of being met with the usual greeting one might meet outside a city. One of the guards, well hidden behind the safety of the wolveshead spikes, but each carrying a Pike that could easily fit between them and stab at a foe from safety yells out.
Stop. Who the hells are you, and what the hells do you want with Vallaki?
Savid approaches, stating his name, then I am Savid, of the Dusk Elves. Returned from my scouting. I found no signs of the Bergomasters Daughter in or near the old manse, nor En route in either direction. I was saved by these three here, and we seek entry to rest and mend our wounds without fear of the dead.
The other guard scoffs at the Dusk Elf.
You know the rules, elf. They must speak for themselves. This may be another ploy.
"I-" Jack started to respond before Savid added his piece and gave him pause. "Not allowed to.... Actually, nevermind. I'm sure once we reach the gates and have a talk with the guards, any questions I might have will clear themselves right up!" He said in a chipper tone, but gave a more strained smile to all. "But Noel my friend, there is nothing you need apologize for. Though your company will soon be surely missed, and though I may want yet to discourage you from your chosen course, I cannot even begin to conceive of the words that might compel you to do otherwise."
"So, I won't even try!" He admitted with a chuckle to his voice. "But take care my friend. While me and Beren here might yet find ourselves alone on the stage, and while I at least will certainly do my damnest to keep undo attention of a certain someone away, we.... Bah! I'm sure things will work itself out." That's when Jack tries to throw an arm around the shoulders of the Bard, and gave him a warm sidehug for good measure. Even if afterwards Beren brings down the mood with his own bid of doom and gloom, Jack at least took in stride and readily urge after the piece was said that they press on for the gates and its grizzly display of brutality outside of it.
When it later came time to address the guards, Jack gave a flamboyant bow and said, "Greetings, salutations, and well met good sir'rah! You may call me Jack! And for little that it may be worth as we are strangers to this little pocket of paradise of yours, I can certainly attest to dear Savid's claims. For while we've been fortunate as to keep our lives up to now, these lands of your have not been entirely welcoming as you are no doubt aware! So if you could do us the kindness of entry and direction to a place we may rest our wary souls, I would happily make a gift perhaps of a bit of foreign wine for the hospitality."
Beren waits silently until after Jack responds to Noel's announcement. Honestly, he is surprised that the elf wasn't going to stay with his friend. Why stick around Beren when he'd known Noel longer--not to mention Noel's company was likely more enjoyable. Either way, he won't argue with either of their choices. "So long as you find safety, I see no harm in you taking time to yourself. I wish I could do more to see you out of these lands, but that future seems distant. I'll make no promises, but if I discover a way to leave this place, I will seek you out." He clenches his fist, "That monster has no right to keep any of us here." With that he falls silent again until they reach the town.
Again, Beren waits silently as the two elves speak to the guards. He isn't particularly pleased by their rude welcome, but he also understands their reasons. In a place like this, it is a wonder they would even consider letting them in.
Once Jack has said his share, Beren steps forward and gives a stiff bow. "I am Beren, and as my companion has already said, we are strangers to this land." He pauses, looking between the spikes for a moment before saying, "Savid has informed us of your Burgomaster's daughter. I do not know if our aid will make much of a difference, but if you are willing to let us take shelter within your walls we will do what we can to aid in the search." The light behind the mask flickers slightly as if uncertain, and he takes a step backwards, falling behind the two elves to take up the rear.
Noel took a long moment before responding to Beren... Finally saying I know friend. You're the type who does that. And I'll keep my fingers crossed that you and Jack don't find any harm. And at Jacks response Noel simply nods. Thats how Jack had always been. Look friend, I feel I need to apologize only because I know how dangerous it is here. But... right now... I'm too distracted. Anytime there isn't something to focus on, my mind flashes back to that moment. I've put on a brave face but I just can't go on right now... and if there is a town here with living folks.... that means they have some degree of safety. And who knows... maybe I'll earn their trust and learn something in the meantime. he says, half-giving the hug back but it was non-commital.
In the present:
As Jack begins to introduce himself, his demeanor, words, and behavior overall make them look at each-other and scoff, particularly at his declaration of 'paradise' as sarcastic as it was. Their Pikes lowering just a bit but in a way that seemed ready to attack though not quite at the point of attacking. Noel was slightly shocked at the cold reception, but at the same time, he wasn't. It made sense but... if he couldn't get inside...
It was then that Beren spoke, and Beren would likely be shocked as it seemed they somehow hadn't noticed him initially, despite his neon. Initially confused looks cross their faces, and they stared long and hard at Beren, as if attempting to discern something. Heard about the Bergo... Wait... it's only a fewdays till... both fell silent for a moment longer. the subtle wind the only noise as it cried through the trees branches still.
He said they're outsiders... one of them said, it was about this time you'd notice the guards wore slightly colorful clothing, though not as fine nor flamboyant as the Vistani. Savid remaining silent, and clearly nonplussed at the situation. You, uh... Beren. Are you an avatar of the Sun? they both asked in near unison. Noel couldn't help but smile, as he walked over to Beren, putting a hand on his shoulder and speaking just low enough to not be heard beyond the party.... Seems like your coming was prophecied, oh 'avatar of the sun' he said with a knowing smile, as he looked to the glowing man. If it'll get us inside, you can atleast pretend to be this avatar, can't ya?
As this is all going on, a dark woman attracted to the noise and having been following the road for a while begins to approach. Currently, no one has seen her.
(This is where Moira can make her entrance whenever she chooses! I will be bringing in Nivi soon)
What? Beren thought, the light behind the mask flickering a little as if to illustrate his confusion. Aside from the flickering, he gave no outward reaction in spite of the thoughts running through his head. Avatar of the Sun? Well he can't really blame them for thinking that considering this accursed power causing him to glow... He glances down as Noel puts a hand on his shoulder, saying something about prophesy, and asking if he can just pretend. At this, he lets out a long breath, which inadvertently causes a puff of light to flow from the lower slats in the iron. Prophesies. It seems he can't escape them.
He hesitates a moment longer, finding himself rather reluctant to just play the part. In fact he rather hates the idea, tired as he is of playing whatever role is set before him. Avatar of the Sun? What exactly do they mean by that? What would they be expecting of him anyways? If this avatar is supposed to be some sort of savior...some sort of divine being manifested into flesh... well how could Beren hope to play that role anyways? In spite of his...glow, he is only human. What would happen if they gained entry thanks to this pretense, only for these people to find out that he lied? What then?
He closes his eyes for a moment, causing the light behind the mask to dim. When he finally speaks he says, "I... don't know." He hesitates again. Though he hates to admit it, if this was prophesied then for all he knows he could be this avatar--which makes him even more reluctant to accept the role. He gives Noel a small glance--just a tilt of the mask, as if in apology. Though if things went wrong because of some fallacy they invented, then Noel wouldn't be able to stay in this town either way. "I have never been called by such a title." He turns his mask towards the guards again--the light still flickering. Going quiet again, he raises a glowing hand in front of him, palm facing upwards. He stands there, staring at his hand for a moment before letting it fall once more to his side. At this point he doesn't know what else to say, not wanting to ruin their chances of a safe place to stay for the night.
My time ran out. Olamoira sits on the dull sand below the bridge, staring into the unforgiving fog that seeths as it curls around the trees. She can feel her hands shaking. The long gone echoes of the screams of the mother and child still reverberate in her mind. It wasn't enough. She knows she has inadvertently traveled to some other realm---but she doesn't know if she died to get here. Would I feel this afraid, if I was dead? And why feel afraid? After some long minutes, Olamoira stands and picks up her things---they're still there---she feels the ache of soreness in her limbs. She vaguely remembers swimming for her life, fighting a current. Somehow, she thinks that death would feel different. Olamoira still feels alive.
Give me a sign, she pleads to the silent darkness. I'm not ready to give up yet. She still struggled to understand the inner promptings, like whispers, and something told her this wasn't the end. She climbs up from under the bridge to the dirt road, peering uneasily through the fog. Darkness gives her no trouble, but the fog obscures everything. Still, brushing it away impatiently with one hand, she can see a wooden palisade a few hundred feet ahead, and lights, it seems, indicating the gate. Olamoira heads quickly towards the light. Within a minute or two she can pick out a group of figures standing before the closed iron gates. Their voices carry over the fog.
But Olamoira doesn't quite hear what they're saying, nor see who they're talking to. What she does see is a figure glowing with light. Her eyes widen; the light stings them. The sign. Relief floods through her, and she leaps into a run towards the figures. Oh, Holy Light that I can not approach. You have never failed to be a beacon to me in the darkness of my life.
Olamoira comes up suddenly to the group at the gates, and she falls to her knees in front of the radiant, glowing man, dropping her hands and forehead to the ground in a nine-point obeisance. "My Lord!" she cries.
Here is a photoshopped AI generated image to give the group some small idea of what is running up on them. It is immediately recognizable as a drow woman, dressed like a cleric.
Although Jack meant no sarcasm in any of his introduction, the fact that it was taken as such wasn't lost to him. Nonetheless, the Eladrin kept from backpaddling on his choice of words before they had at least a chance to respond, and kept to relaxed posture, least he'd but elicit more genuine hostility. A thin brow is raised at the guard's reaction to Beren's piece. But if able to catch even a hint of Noel's suggestion to Beren, he held his tongue and simply looked expectantly at the knight errant(as far as Jack was concerned!).
His expression almost immediately fell following Beren's rather noncommittal reply. Then there's a bit of a chuckle that slips out before Jack shook his head as well. Just as he's about to slap a hand on Beren's pauldren and maybe try to elaborate on things, as the fear of being kicked out for proving to be some charlatans fails to even cross his mind, he stops short with Olamoira's sudden appearance.
Recognition of -what- she was led Jack to narrowing his eyes a bit. But then as >really< dawns on him as to what she's doing, he took nearly a full step back in surprise, before allowing a smile to return. "What's this now? Not one of >her< children, or... that of the moon maiden I take it, seeing as you seem so enraptured by my friend here as well." Jack then looks to Beren. "Old friend of yours from the other side?" He asked, but then turned to the guards to give them an apologetic smile.
Appearance/Desc:
Desc Excerpt from 1st Post: For whereas Noel dressed fancifully in his high quality clothing, Jack's own apparel was colorful, but was otherwise of a well-worn and simpler affair that would be a little less be out a place of the average traveler. He wore a long sleeved tunic, pants, and poncho, all in various shades of green. Though some flecks of yellow and orange seemed to have seeped its way into the corners of his clothes, hair, and skin. His shoes were barely a step above being roughspun in quality, yet somehow held together through sheer spite for the world, and the love their creative owner, as there were plenty of patches denoting past repair work done to them.
He was not lacking in personal protection as well, as a scimitar resting in its sheath sat at his side. A set of decently made hide armor covered his frame just beneath the poncho as well, a yew wand shaped into a spiral sat snuggly strapped to his hip, and a rounded, wooden shield was absently being rolled about along the ground. As slight of build as he was, which may come as no surprise to any given his clearly elven lineage, Jack's height exceeds most of his common kin by leaps and bonds, and even that of the average human, as he stood easily six feet and then some in height! Yet despite the somewhat spidery appearance that came with his light green frame, Jack' looks like the sort in which a smile comes easily to him as well as a jest.
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Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Beren, noting Jack's near-action and having a pretty good guess at what he was about to do, feels a hint of irritation. He doesn't want to be roped into this role, not just because he isn't comfortable with the idea, but for other reasons as well. Besides, getting into this town by lies will only lead to bad things down the road. Suddenly, his thoughts are cut short when a strange drow collapses at his feet. He takes a step backward in surprise, raising a hand as his light flickers in confusion.
"I...think you've mistaken me for someone else..." he says slowly, his breath sending puffs of light from the mask. Who or what does she think he is? This better not have to do with this avatar of the sun business. He looks at Jack, "No, I've never seen this woman in my life."
If she is still on the ground at this point, he looks down at her and says hesitantly, "Please... stop that. I don't know who you think I am, but I'm not him." At least...he doesn't think he is. For all he knows this could be some other blasted prophesy. After a moment of hesitation, he bends over slightly and offers a hand to help her up.
Description:
(an old drawing, but still accurate :D )
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Savid looks at Noel askance, as if Noel was speaking nonsense. Clearly the elf doubted his words, but in the end, it didn't matter much whether it was true or not. In the end, the elf shrugged, saying If you insist. I mean no offense, but such a thing has never been heard of. The blessing of a preist maybe, or the enhancement of a wizard, but if stories could give such boons, why have they never? He raised a hand to stop any arguments, in the same way an atheist might say "you believe what you will, and I shall as well" but he seemed to be recovering slowly as they moved.
Once stopped, Savid moves from the cart, some of his agility showing finally. Everyone resting, observing or otherwise paying attention to the general area during the hour long reprieve. (Beren perception, gigantomax: 3)
Chance Roll 1: 13
Chance Roll 2: 1
Specific: 11 + 6
As Beren continues to have the worst eyesight and hearing known to man (poor guy!) Noel ends up discovering a small satchel, hidden just behind some nearby shrubbery. Upon inspection, he finds a set of common clothes sized for a human adult. The clothes are bland, and colorless, as if depression itself had seeped into them, but they seemed harmless. Savid takes notice once Noel begins to unravel it, flinching.
That is the stashed clothing of some were creature. Though whether raven or wolf you can never tell. Nor can I tell how long it's been here... he says after inspecting the area. Be on your guard - it could easily be as far away as it is near. Though I haven't sensed anything in the woods nearby.
Nothing else of note occors other than the sun shifting behind the mask of clouds as they part slowly, revealing a sheer but never completely open view of it. The fog surrounding you all allowing you to see for some great distance. The hour passes, and everyone either sits in the cart, or walks alongside it to avoid further frustration/awkwardness after Jack is once more hitched to it after shifting. Everyone intent on getting to Vallaki as soon as possible.
Chance 1: 18
Chance 2: 15
Jack: 7
Noel: 7
Beren: 8
Jack embraces his inner animal, becoming one with it, as his perception is without peer, unfortunately, it is for naught, as nothing of note occurs but atleast the party is sure of it! This time, you've managed to make it to the fork in the road you were at before altering course.
(I'll proceed for now. And sorry for rolling for you, but this would take so much longer if i paused just to say "X roll Y")At this point, you all choose to either assist in pulling the cart, or abandoning it entirely.
(Please make your decision clear!)
By now, the day is dragging on and the sun is beginning to set, though you have a good 2 hours before it trades places with the moon. Do you proceed, or stay? Savid gives you all general ideas of how long/far away Vallaki is from there, at this point another 5-6 hours.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(@Raiketsu: Although it probably goes without saying, I have no problems with it for the sake of expediency. Same for doing any saves)
Although there are plenty of things in idle conversation to grab Jack's attention, none seemed to spark the man's curiosity's more than Savid's commentary about Noel's discovery! "A Were creature? Hah! I suppose I shouldn't be so surprised given the state of these lands!" Jack said with a bit of a chuckle to his voice. "Best to leave them be, my friend. Whether they be raven or wolf or some other manner of Were altogether, I would imagine none would take too kindly to having their things taken, let alone touched by unfamiliar hands. And we though I enjoy the occasional distraction, I'm afraid our dance card is rather full today."
Jack then rubbed his chin in thought before adding in a more serious tone, "Best to keep its placement in mind however... Just in case." At that, Jack had once more laid back down in the cart to continue to rest, if though now with more troubled thoughts. Nonetheless, once he felt his strength returned, so too had his concern equally waned in favor of once again enjoying stretching both his legs and testing the strength of his more primal forms.
Some time later at the crossing....
If Jack by the time they arrived at the crossing and felt he could presson on a little further, than he'd did so without a second thought! But regardless of whether he had yet the strength or not to press on for a bit more in primal form, his attention in part went skyward by then to get a measure of the time... before shaking his head and look a touch disappointed. After which he'd be sure to pause and revert as needed to address the group with a faux sad frown on his face. "So close yet so far. And to think, we might've even been able to make a decent mint of this cart, if nothing else upon reaching town! But alas, even if I were to assume a form with the strength to pull and sight to manage in the dark, I fear we may yet be better off obscuring it off the road a bit and carrying on by foot." He expressed to the group.
"Not that we'd get there in time or any faster mind you, but... a cross road makes for an easy marker to retrieve the cart later if we had the need, wouldn't you say? And perhaps at the time we may yet have even have a proper... eh... 'friend' that could handle such heavy burden, wouldn't you say? Either way, I leave the decision to you two! .... Unless, of course, there's a split in choices."
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
(lol, I guess that blow from Strahd damaged him permanently :'D. I don't mind you rolling for me, it does keep things moving faster and its not like it's likely to change the results. Just so it doesn't get overlooked...Savid didn't respond to Beren's second set of questions about the missing girl. He asked where she was taken from, and how long ago it was.)
Beren takes note of Savid's remark about the clothing. It seemed odd to him that one would just assume the abandoned cloths belong to a lycanthrope, but that just means that such creatures must be common place in this realm. This place just keeps getting better and better it would seem. Regardless, he says nothing, though he does think it wise to move on as soon as possible. If this were creature were to take issue with them now...even from just catching Noel's scent on the cloths, it might decide to track them if it doesn't show up earlier.
When they reach the crossroads, Beren nods to Jack saying, "I have no issue with this." He doesn't really care much for the cart, its only real use was carting them along while they were still weak from their wounds. If Savid is well enough to walk on his own, the cart is no longer a necessity.
He looks up at the sky as if to confirm that they really won't reach the town before nightfall, only to let out a quiet sigh. "Even if we cannot reach our destination before nightfall, I say lets continue on. At the very least we should make use of the remaining daylight even if we still end up camping along the road tonight. It will shorten our journey tomorrow." Personally, he would have no qualms with simply walking through the night until they reached the town. They would only miss a few hours of sleep, but they would rest within the safety of civilization. However, he does realize that Jack has been pulling the rest of them this whole time--even if his animal forms enable him to do so with no more stress then if he were simply crying a pack, it wouldn't be right to ask him to press on with the rest of them. So he will leave his opinion of that unspoken for now, waiting to see what the others choose.
(Apologies, I'll update, i was thinking about what he was goign to say and then all the rolls... just forgot.)
Back in time during the conversation)))
And she dissappeared barely two days ago. I went out not long after. She was taken from the Vistani camp just outside the town proper. The thing is WE don't know much more than you. She was simply gone, noticed, and we proceeded to seek her out - blind. The only thing that's changed is w- well I and us know where she's not. I'm sure the other scouts have already returned, or will be soon.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(I'll push us forward in a day or two if Noel has no input, just trying to give fair time to respond)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(No worries, it happens ;). )
Beren simply nods in response, having expected a similar answer. Still, it was good to know what sort of timeframe they were working with…two days though, doesn’t sound promising.
Eventually the three of you decide to abandon the cart where it is for the sake of easier travel. Savid doesn't care either way, and the quartet of a party begin to move once more down the slowly darkening road. Though light still persists for the next few hours at the very least. Your vista is met with much of the same, well travelled dirt road, with many many tree's, and the seemingly unending, pervasive fog.
Chance 1: 12
Chance 2: 3
Chance 3: 14
Chance 4: 5
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(Gah i forgot to space break)
Chance 5: 7
Chance 6: 18
Chance Culmination: 9 + 2
Chance Culmination2: 1
Occassional Dungeon Master.
After nearly three hours of travelling unimpeded, ahead in the road you spot the corpse of a dead wolf. Spear-wounds and crossbow bolts feathering it, though no sign of whomever caused it's demise. Savid seems unconcerned, explaining Likely it was met by one of the scouts or even a group returning from Vallaki, it likely attacked and was dealt with. I would not concern myself with it overmuch. But by my guess, we're nearing the bridge... he said as he looked up to judge the time, as the last rays of light faded from the world more than half an hour ago, replaced by the gloom of a muted full moon, judging you all from above.
I'd say were about two to three hours away from Vallaki.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Jack clicks his tongue a bit and shakes his head. "They could've at least had the decency to take it with them to repurpose the remains, or moved it further off the road." He said chidingly. "But, I take it the people of Vallaki care not much for such customs, if not for wolves in general? I can't recall if you cover that bit or not, so needless to say, I am curious."
Whether given some answers or not, his attention shifts to the others afterwards. Although he had to squint a bit at first as whatever item Beren opted to fill with divine grace partially blinded the elf, as he'd spent the past half-hour keep largely an eye out into the dim and dark beyond its radiance. "Either way, let's pick up the pace a bit. Much as I'd rather not be consider a hypocrite in not tending to the dead, the wilder things we'll see to it yet, if not the creatures dear Savid here warned us about. And even if not, time is not exactly our friend these days." On that note, Jack moved to press on down the road giving the wolf a fairly wide-berth, but pausing before fully passing to bow to it and utter a phrase in druidic.
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
The light behind the mask flickers slightly as Beren glances briefly at the dead wolf. He doesn't spare it much more then that glance however, seeing no point in wondering about the death of the animal. From what they've seen of this land, it is a cruel one. A dead wolf is the least of their concern--at least it looked to have been killed by humanoids rather than torn apart by something more sinister.
He nods slightly when Jack mentions picking up the pace, and silently does so seeing no use in wasting his breath. The sooner they reach the village the better.
I will be continuing the game tonight!
Occassional Dungeon Master.
After a long moment of silence, Noel ultimately decides to press on, despite his misgivings on the whole current situation. Savid agree's with the decision.
Having just passed the bridge a while ago, you all press on at a faster pace. Savid guiding you, not that he really had to at this point. But after two hours, Vallaki comes into sight. The land was much as it had been since you got here. The trees pressing in on the road, their upper reaches seeming to watch your every move though you knew that wasn't true. This land had a way of haunting your thoughts, and every-day normal things seemed out of place, or to have a malice that wasn't normally there. The fog, that ever-present fog limiting visibility to a few hundred feet when combined with the darkness, and the muted sky. The wind had picked up again, and the tree's howled their lamentations in a chorus-dirge.
Finally, the town came into sight another forty minutes later. Only just barely lit with torches at the front.
The Old Svalich Road meanders into a valley watched over by dark, brooding mountains to the north and south. The woods recede, revealing a sullen mountain burg surrounded by a wooden palisade. Thick fog presses up against this wall, as though looking for a way inside, hoping to catch the town aslumber.
The dirt road ends at a set of sturdy iron gates with a pair of shadowy figures standing behind them. Planted in the ground and flanking the road outside the gates are a half-dozen pikes with wolves’ heads impaled on them.
Finally, Noel chimes in, saying, his voice quivering with some hesitation uncharacteristic to what Jack knew of the man.
Jack... Beren. I've been thinking for a while. he says, eys averting for a moment as he carefully considers his words. Hand instinctively reaching for his candle for just a moment. We blasted the first few fiends we saw with ease.... we managed to avoid some barbarian-like beings.... but then when Strahd showed up, he nearly killed Beren in a single attack.... then back at that dragon mansion.... we almost died again, if not for Tymora watching over us... I.. I need some time to think, to myself. And this will be the first real civilization we've come across.
I think I'm going to stay here in Vallaki for a while. I'm sorry, especially to you jack, but.. I just can't shake it out of my mind. What Strahd did to that boy.... He ended his life just to show us how little we... or they matter to him, and how easily he can just snuff us out.
Savid grunts for the first time, saying I will let them know you aided in saving me. You may not be able to stay in town, but you will be able to stay in one of our dusk elf tents atleast. As long as you're willing to work, you will be fed fairly. But Vallaki is ahead of us, let us go.
After whatever responses you give to Noels comments, you all begin to approach the gates. Instead of being met with the usual greeting one might meet outside a city. One of the guards, well hidden behind the safety of the wolveshead spikes, but each carrying a Pike that could easily fit between them and stab at a foe from safety yells out.
Stop. Who the hells are you, and what the hells do you want with Vallaki?
Savid approaches, stating his name, then I am Savid, of the Dusk Elves. Returned from my scouting. I found no signs of the Bergomasters Daughter in or near the old manse, nor En route in either direction. I was saved by these three here, and we seek entry to rest and mend our wounds without fear of the dead.
The other guard scoffs at the Dusk Elf.
You know the rules, elf. They must speak for themselves. This may be another ploy.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
"I-" Jack started to respond before Savid added his piece and gave him pause. "Not allowed to.... Actually, nevermind. I'm sure once we reach the gates and have a talk with the guards, any questions I might have will clear themselves right up!" He said in a chipper tone, but gave a more strained smile to all. "But Noel my friend, there is nothing you need apologize for. Though your company will soon be surely missed, and though I may want yet to discourage you from your chosen course, I cannot even begin to conceive of the words that might compel you to do otherwise."
"So, I won't even try!" He admitted with a chuckle to his voice. "But take care my friend. While me and Beren here might yet find ourselves alone on the stage, and while I at least will certainly do my damnest to keep undo attention of a certain someone away, we.... Bah! I'm sure things will work itself out." That's when Jack tries to throw an arm around the shoulders of the Bard, and gave him a warm sidehug for good measure. Even if afterwards Beren brings down the mood with his own bid of doom and gloom, Jack at least took in stride and readily urge after the piece was said that they press on for the gates and its grizzly display of brutality outside of it.
When it later came time to address the guards, Jack gave a flamboyant bow and said, "Greetings, salutations, and well met good sir'rah! You may call me Jack! And for little that it may be worth as we are strangers to this little pocket of paradise of yours, I can certainly attest to dear Savid's claims. For while we've been fortunate as to keep our lives up to now, these lands of your have not been entirely welcoming as you are no doubt aware! So if you could do us the kindness of entry and direction to a place we may rest our wary souls, I would happily make a gift perhaps of a bit of foreign wine for the hospitality."
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
Beren waits silently until after Jack responds to Noel's announcement. Honestly, he is surprised that the elf wasn't going to stay with his friend. Why stick around Beren when he'd known Noel longer--not to mention Noel's company was likely more enjoyable. Either way, he won't argue with either of their choices. "So long as you find safety, I see no harm in you taking time to yourself. I wish I could do more to see you out of these lands, but that future seems distant. I'll make no promises, but if I discover a way to leave this place, I will seek you out." He clenches his fist, "That monster has no right to keep any of us here." With that he falls silent again until they reach the town.
Again, Beren waits silently as the two elves speak to the guards. He isn't particularly pleased by their rude welcome, but he also understands their reasons. In a place like this, it is a wonder they would even consider letting them in.
Once Jack has said his share, Beren steps forward and gives a stiff bow. "I am Beren, and as my companion has already said, we are strangers to this land." He pauses, looking between the spikes for a moment before saying, "Savid has informed us of your Burgomaster's daughter. I do not know if our aid will make much of a difference, but if you are willing to let us take shelter within your walls we will do what we can to aid in the search." The light behind the mask flickers slightly as if uncertain, and he takes a step backwards, falling behind the two elves to take up the rear.
Noel took a long moment before responding to Beren... Finally saying I know friend. You're the type who does that. And I'll keep my fingers crossed that you and Jack don't find any harm. And at Jacks response Noel simply nods. Thats how Jack had always been. Look friend, I feel I need to apologize only because I know how dangerous it is here. But... right now... I'm too distracted. Anytime there isn't something to focus on, my mind flashes back to that moment. I've put on a brave face but I just can't go on right now... and if there is a town here with living folks.... that means they have some degree of safety. And who knows... maybe I'll earn their trust and learn something in the meantime. he says, half-giving the hug back but it was non-commital.
In the present:
As Jack begins to introduce himself, his demeanor, words, and behavior overall make them look at each-other and scoff, particularly at his declaration of 'paradise' as sarcastic as it was. Their Pikes lowering just a bit but in a way that seemed ready to attack though not quite at the point of attacking. Noel was slightly shocked at the cold reception, but at the same time, he wasn't. It made sense but... if he couldn't get inside...
It was then that Beren spoke, and Beren would likely be shocked as it seemed they somehow hadn't noticed him initially, despite his neon. Initially confused looks cross their faces, and they stared long and hard at Beren, as if attempting to discern something. Heard about the Bergo... Wait... it's only a fewdays till... both fell silent for a moment longer. the subtle wind the only noise as it cried through the trees branches still.
He said they're outsiders... one of them said, it was about this time you'd notice the guards wore slightly colorful clothing, though not as fine nor flamboyant as the Vistani. Savid remaining silent, and clearly nonplussed at the situation. You, uh... Beren. Are you an avatar of the Sun? they both asked in near unison. Noel couldn't help but smile, as he walked over to Beren, putting a hand on his shoulder and speaking just low enough to not be heard beyond the party.... Seems like your coming was prophecied, oh 'avatar of the sun' he said with a knowing smile, as he looked to the glowing man. If it'll get us inside, you can atleast pretend to be this avatar, can't ya?
As this is all going on, a dark woman attracted to the noise and having been following the road for a while begins to approach. Currently, no one has seen her.
(This is where Moira can make her entrance whenever she chooses! I will be bringing in Nivi soon)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
What? Beren thought, the light behind the mask flickering a little as if to illustrate his confusion. Aside from the flickering, he gave no outward reaction in spite of the thoughts running through his head. Avatar of the Sun? Well he can't really blame them for thinking that considering this accursed power causing him to glow... He glances down as Noel puts a hand on his shoulder, saying something about prophesy, and asking if he can just pretend. At this, he lets out a long breath, which inadvertently causes a puff of light to flow from the lower slats in the iron. Prophesies. It seems he can't escape them.
He hesitates a moment longer, finding himself rather reluctant to just play the part. In fact he rather hates the idea, tired as he is of playing whatever role is set before him. Avatar of the Sun? What exactly do they mean by that? What would they be expecting of him anyways? If this avatar is supposed to be some sort of savior...some sort of divine being manifested into flesh... well how could Beren hope to play that role anyways? In spite of his...glow, he is only human. What would happen if they gained entry thanks to this pretense, only for these people to find out that he lied? What then?
He closes his eyes for a moment, causing the light behind the mask to dim. When he finally speaks he says, "I... don't know." He hesitates again. Though he hates to admit it, if this was prophesied then for all he knows he could be this avatar--which makes him even more reluctant to accept the role. He gives Noel a small glance--just a tilt of the mask, as if in apology. Though if things went wrong because of some fallacy they invented, then Noel wouldn't be able to stay in this town either way. "I have never been called by such a title." He turns his mask towards the guards again--the light still flickering. Going quiet again, he raises a glowing hand in front of him, palm facing upwards. He stands there, staring at his hand for a moment before letting it fall once more to his side. At this point he doesn't know what else to say, not wanting to ruin their chances of a safe place to stay for the night.
My time ran out. Olamoira sits on the dull sand below the bridge, staring into the unforgiving fog that seeths as it curls around the trees. She can feel her hands shaking. The long gone echoes of the screams of the mother and child still reverberate in her mind. It wasn't enough. She knows she has inadvertently traveled to some other realm---but she doesn't know if she died to get here. Would I feel this afraid, if I was dead? And why feel afraid? After some long minutes, Olamoira stands and picks up her things---they're still there---she feels the ache of soreness in her limbs. She vaguely remembers swimming for her life, fighting a current. Somehow, she thinks that death would feel different. Olamoira still feels alive.
Give me a sign, she pleads to the silent darkness. I'm not ready to give up yet. She still struggled to understand the inner promptings, like whispers, and something told her this wasn't the end. She climbs up from under the bridge to the dirt road, peering uneasily through the fog. Darkness gives her no trouble, but the fog obscures everything. Still, brushing it away impatiently with one hand, she can see a wooden palisade a few hundred feet ahead, and lights, it seems, indicating the gate. Olamoira heads quickly towards the light. Within a minute or two she can pick out a group of figures standing before the closed iron gates. Their voices carry over the fog.
But Olamoira doesn't quite hear what they're saying, nor see who they're talking to. What she does see is a figure glowing with light. Her eyes widen; the light stings them. The sign. Relief floods through her, and she leaps into a run towards the figures. Oh, Holy Light that I can not approach. You have never failed to be a beacon to me in the darkness of my life.
Olamoira comes up suddenly to the group at the gates, and she falls to her knees in front of the radiant, glowing man, dropping her hands and forehead to the ground in a nine-point obeisance. "My Lord!" she cries.
Here is a photoshopped AI generated image to give the group some small idea of what is running up on them. It is immediately recognizable as a drow woman, dressed like a cleric.
Although Jack meant no sarcasm in any of his introduction, the fact that it was taken as such wasn't lost to him. Nonetheless, the Eladrin kept from backpaddling on his choice of words before they had at least a chance to respond, and kept to relaxed posture, least he'd but elicit more genuine hostility. A thin brow is raised at the guard's reaction to Beren's piece. But if able to catch even a hint of Noel's suggestion to Beren, he held his tongue and simply looked expectantly at the knight errant(as far as Jack was concerned!).
His expression almost immediately fell following Beren's rather noncommittal reply. Then there's a bit of a chuckle that slips out before Jack shook his head as well. Just as he's about to slap a hand on Beren's pauldren and maybe try to elaborate on things, as the fear of being kicked out for proving to be some charlatans fails to even cross his mind, he stops short with Olamoira's sudden appearance.
Recognition of -what- she was led Jack to narrowing his eyes a bit. But then as >really< dawns on him as to what she's doing, he took nearly a full step back in surprise, before allowing a smile to return. "What's this now? Not one of >her< children, or... that of the moon maiden I take it, seeing as you seem so enraptured by my friend here as well." Jack then looks to Beren. "Old friend of yours from the other side?" He asked, but then turned to the guards to give them an apologetic smile.
Appearance/Desc:
Desc Excerpt from 1st Post:
For whereas Noel dressed fancifully in his high quality clothing, Jack's own apparel was colorful, but was otherwise of a well-worn and simpler affair that would be a little less be out a place of the average traveler. He wore a long sleeved tunic, pants, and poncho, all in various shades of green. Though some flecks of yellow and orange seemed to have seeped its way into the corners of his clothes, hair, and skin. His shoes were barely a step above being roughspun in quality, yet somehow held together through sheer spite for the world, and the love their creative owner, as there were plenty of patches denoting past repair work done to them.
He was not lacking in personal protection as well, as a scimitar resting in its sheath sat at his side. A set of decently made hide armor covered his frame just beneath the poncho as well, a yew wand shaped into a spiral sat snuggly strapped to his hip, and a rounded, wooden shield was absently being rolled about along the ground. As slight of build as he was, which may come as no surprise to any given his clearly elven lineage, Jack's height exceeds most of his common kin by leaps and bonds, and even that of the average human, as he stood easily six feet and then some in height! Yet despite the somewhat spidery appearance that came with his light green frame, Jack' looks like the sort in which a smile comes easily to him as well as a jest.
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
Beren, noting Jack's near-action and having a pretty good guess at what he was about to do, feels a hint of irritation. He doesn't want to be roped into this role, not just because he isn't comfortable with the idea, but for other reasons as well. Besides, getting into this town by lies will only lead to bad things down the road. Suddenly, his thoughts are cut short when a strange drow collapses at his feet. He takes a step backward in surprise, raising a hand as his light flickers in confusion.
"I...think you've mistaken me for someone else..." he says slowly, his breath sending puffs of light from the mask. Who or what does she think he is? This better not have to do with this avatar of the sun business. He looks at Jack, "No, I've never seen this woman in my life."
If she is still on the ground at this point, he looks down at her and says hesitantly, "Please... stop that. I don't know who you think I am, but I'm not him." At least...he doesn't think he is. For all he knows this could be some other blasted prophesy. After a moment of hesitation, he bends over slightly and offers a hand to help her up.
Description:
(an old drawing, but still accurate :D )