(Since everyone else is heading upstairs, handling Jacks post first.)

As Moira, Nivi, and Beren all seem to have chosen to head upstairs, leaving poor Jack at the mercy of the thronging crowds, soon to devour his... stories. The guard, who had only just began to head upstairs turns her head only, seeming bothered by the interruption but not nearly as frustrated as she was with Little Mrs. Sarcastic. Not that it matters, but Svenka. Now If you'll excuse me, we need to get this girl to a bed. Her father will be here soon, and she likely needs the rest. And Urwin should soon have some bread ready to atleast sate her in the immediate. And with that she continued her march as the proffered hand had been retracted, Motioning for Nivi to follow.. as muc has she could while holding Arabelle, and not wanting to engage with the elf with words anymore as - aside from the many misunderstandings, she was simply don with the elf.

jack soon turning to address the many people watching as Arabelle is taken to the second floor. At Jacks first comment, half the patrons scoff but not maliciously, but rather in a way that portrays that Jacks observation was the understatement of the day. One of the many patrons -all humans, some looking like Vistani, others like normal humans, all of those gathered different shades of white, and the only commonality among them being brightly colored apparel, mostly roguish, but some more mercantile.- said in response You have no idea! Most of us thought her lost for good. Some of us just lost bets. Half of us didn't really care, but in the end it is an overall good. to which most of the patrons agreed with verbal or physical responses.

Urwin - though busy, seemed to pause with interest as the story of how it came to be might simply fall in his lap. Besides, Arabelle wasn't going anywhere.... he waived through one of the rear entrances, likely waiving down an employee to take care of the delivery in his stead. And most of those gathered around taking an interest, only a few seeming to go back to their cups or meals. Sure, we'll tell ye some things, just get on with it! Where was she? How did she get there? What 'appened? And who were that glowing man? was the general consensus though each phrase was spoken by different people. Urwin waiting with baited breath...

Upstairs, with the Guard leading the way, Bluto being dragged by Beren, Nivi just behind Moira who made sure she was as close to Beren as possible, making sure no one came between her and the sun. Svenka moves into the first open door, as Urwin had gone downstairs to get the food, or atleast that was the last thing he seemed to be doing. Svenka gently sets the child on the bed, not with a motherly love but caution due someone small and fragile. Everyone filing into the room or just in the hall as room allowed. Moira staying silent, atleast for now, as was her wont. Beren staying in the hall to keep Bluto away from the girl. Moira likely staying just outside as well, with only Nivi likely entering. Leaving the room mostly unoccupied, but the hall a little cramped. However this part of the hall was only half of a hall, more of a balcony, allowing those outside the room to observe below. From here at least, Nivi didn't see any immediate exits aside from the one she'd come through, but there were plenty of doors she hadn't looked behind yet. However, from here, she has a better view of the inn as a whole, noticing more details than the rest. 

Damp cloaks hang from pegs in the entrance portico. The tavern is packed with tables and chairs, with narrow paths meandering between them. A bar stretches along one wall, under a balcony that can be reached by a wooden staircase that hugs the north wall. Another balcony overhangs an entrance to the east. All the windows are fitted with thick shutters and crossbars. Lanterns hanging above the bar and resting on the tables bathe the room in dull orange light and cast shadows upon the walls, most of which are adorned with wolf heads mounted on wooden plaques. (Sorry, from this area you can't see anything aside form a few doors that could lead anywhere.) Though two of the wall don't seem to fit in with the rest of the frame. And across the way, is another balcony though no obvious way to get there shows itself. This twenty-foot-long balcony provides a clear view of the bar and has a wooden railing carved with raven motifs. The taproom’s many lanterns illuminate the rafters and cast ominous shadows on the peaked ceiling.

Though Nivi see's little overall, it's clear this place has many doors.

(After the next round of posts, The burgomaster will enter.)

Nivi also catches two patrons below who seem to be a little different from the others. A bit more fierce. They had been in the corner, though not skulking like the typical tavern skulker. they weren't blending or hiding in the shadowed corner. They simply were two that hadn't gotten up at Arabelles entrance, so they blended in behind the 'treeline' of human bodies packing the room. They didn't seem malicious but they did seem fierce, dangerous.

 Arabelle herself rests easily on the bed, her overall condition aside. Perhaps just a bit more healing would wake her, giving her enough energy to open her eyes. Svenka eyes Nivi watchfully. On guard but not tense. Even if Nivi could get out, it would still take her time. Regardless, the guard sighs and say. All there is left to do, is wait. The Burgomaster should be here soon, and he'll decide what to do with you and Bluto. I'd suggest you show him more respect than you did me.

 Meanwhile, with Shiv, the four ravens watch the bird of prey approach, each of them cocking their heads back  and standing taller. Their behaviour not that of a creature feeling threatened but rather ones who were on top of the food chain. However as the owl makes a little known gesture  to signal it has no ill intent does .. a little to make them cease their own aggressive postures but after looking amongst eachother for a moment, seeming to deliberate amongst themselves. But they ultimately seem to choose against conspiring with the owl, it is not one of them. They raise their hackles, and though they do not attack, they are clearly saying that the bird should get away or face the consequences.

Beren takes note of the guard's name, having considered asking what it was himself but ultimately being beaten by Jack. He keeps his mask faced forward, already feeling unwanted gazes upon him as he makes his way towards the stairs and up them. He shakes his head slightly as he hears Jack preparing to tell the 'story' of them recovering Arabelle, and silently hopes that he keeps potential embellishments to the minimum. Honestly, he'd rather not have the elf telling the tale at all and grimaces slightly when he picks up on a few asking after his identity. It wasn't as if Jack could tell them much more than his name, but still, the last thing he needs is to walk back down those stairs and have everyone in the inn calling him 'Avatar of the Sun'. 

He takes up a position just outside the room, pressing Bluto against the railing of the balcony so that he himself can stand next to the door and look out over the staircase and the crowd below. This way he can keep an eye on Bluto and the staircase as well, should anyone decide to ascend it. He leans back against the wall, letting out a quiet but weary sigh. With nothing else to concentrate on, the aches from his wounds demand attention. Unfortunately, they'll have to wait until after the Burgomaster arrives. As it is, he glances down at his torso, the light flickering slightly as he takes note of the bloodstains and broken chainmail. Great, he'll have to get that fixed. Hopefully there is a blacksmith in town--assuming they are allowed to stay here.  

When the guard mentions showing the Burgomaster more respect than they did her, Beren crosses his arms and pointedly keeps his gaze on the scene in front of him. I'll show him whatever respect he deserves, he thinks bitterly. He's done his best to be 'respectful' to these people, and it hasn't gotten him very far. So he'll just wait and see how this goes. For now, he'll busy himself with resting as much as he can leaning against the wall while watching over those around him. 

Perception (If needed): 2 (critical fail) 

At the ravens' dismissal, Shiv takes no offense.  With the avian equivalent of a respectful nod, he takes wing and circles near the entrance of the Blue Water Inn.  If it is open, he swoops through the top of the door and up to the balcony alight on his accustomed perch on Nivi's shoulder.  If there is no easy way in, instead he flies to a different rooftop from which he can watch the entrance to the Inn and as much area around the building as possible.  (60' movement).

Interesting.  The ravens are not only intelligent but acting in concert.  Conspiring.  Could be allies if they hide from Strahd.  Shiv and Nivi share the thought.

Back on the balcony, seeing that Smiley (Svenka) is watching her, Nivi makes no attempt to jimmy the manacles with the tools palmed in her hands.  Though she does make note of where on her person the guard has kept the key.  She keeps her invisible Mage Hand ready but not yet used.

Standing tall with her shoulders back, as she remembers her bard sister doing when speaking on behalf of one of her endless delegations, Nivi turns her back on Smiley to observe the common room below.  She makes note of the two spots on the wall that don't seem to fit for later investigation with her Mage Hand.  Perhaps more importantly, she focuses on the two fiercer, stoic men.  She nudges Sunshine and the Prophet and points down at the men briefly with her eyes and chin, though she wonders whether her companions are in the mood to care (or would ever be).

Her voice is different, now.  More Niva'ele Farstrider, the high elf who grew up on an estate near Silverymoon and less Nivi, the Waterdeep dock ward fixer.

"Those two look like adventurers to me," she observes quietly.  "At the very least, they may have a realistic assessment of the dangers we face in this land, of which I suspect we have witnessed only a sampling.  Also, Shiv reports ravens on the roof here, sentient birds with intelligence.  Working in concert, not unusual for animals, but there is a conspiratorial air about them, not necessarily evil.  If they hide from Strahd, they may be possible allies."

Her sardonic grin returns.  Back to Nivi of Waterdeep's dock ward.  "Thought you two should know.  'Case the burgo-whatever decides a drunk's word is good enough to execute a prisoner for a crime I'd be an idiot not to cover up better.  Might be hard to say much after my head is off my shoulders.  But if that happens, don't forget - someone set this up and they're still around.  Could be Strahd, could be someone right down there or in town."

As a creature more often driven by impulse, an often times peculiar sense of fair dealing, and the pursuit of idle amusements even in his most dreary of states, the thought never crosses Jack's mind to weave a tale that might galvanize the gathering crowd so that they might become another strength -- another tool in the arsenal to help persuade or coerce the burgomaster into ruling favorly for Nivi. To do so would've meant abusing the sacred past time that was storytelling, which was definitely something the Eladrin could not -- WOULD not do... even for a good laugh. Nor had he the confidence anyhow to try, but such was beside the point. Nonetheless, he's given pause at the thought, and even grew a little misty-eyed thinking of a certain bard and their lack of presence that evening.

... But soon enough, he played off the moment saying, "Sorry everyone. Just thinking back to reminded me this story might be more of a tear jerker than expected!" A rather musical bout of laughter slips out before Jack finally shifted in his seat for comfort before telling the story. "Though many a twist and unexpected turns led me and mines on the path -- a wonderous story in itself, I assure you all -- no evil could escape the sight of my latest compatriot found along the way, O' Nimble Nivi, the Crimson Thorn! Or that of her noble and bold owl brother. And once she, well, they spied it, such was her haste to act that one would liken her to an ember erupting into a full blown flame as her hair danced in the air! But what are the flames of youth without a humble but powerful shadow ever at its heels? Well, why its none other than my other recent compatriot, Olamoira the Sun-Touched, who without her strength in propelling our recently rented vessel across a misty and treacherous lake, we would all be doomed to never reach her time!" He exclaimed passionately, before leaning forward in his seat wagging a finger for a bit.

"But we knew... we knew that even with time on our side, it may very well not be enough." Jack admits, effecting a more solemn air even at the risk of losing himself as the more genuine mccoy -- the weight of all the grimness faced up to this point tried to seize the moment and began bubbling to the surface. His next words thus came out more hurried as he went on to say, "But fortunately, we had one other stalwart companion, golden-eyed Beren, who in an effort to increase our odds of finding dear Arabelle some time before, found himself most embroiled with shambling undead whose limbs refused to stay put even after being cleaved from their body! But having survived a tangling with far more robust forces, such as a former knightly order to the far north of here, he would not yield so easily my friends!"

And on and on he went for a time, lightly embellishing the party's part to play and even that of Skeva at one point, while also downplaying his own role to the point of being near comedic, if not assuredly so whenever it seemed the story needed a bit more 'punch' at points. Of Bluto's part in things, he doesn't entirely hide the man's own intoxication throughout at least part of the story. But rather than put the full fault on the man, he'd more emphasize some manner of bewitchment having fallen the poor old sailor, sensed by noble Beren. All too likely the end of his story would come about at most a minute ahead of the burgomaster's arrival. So during that time, he'd happily field any questions, provide small encores to parts of the story at others request, and in-between those moments try to slip in questions of his own about notable places in town, people's perspective on the burgomaster, and places to avoid.

Occasionally, a few of those below look to the balcony, to the glowing man upstairs, if not for Arabelle's return, he would be the talk of the tavern right now - likely very much to the Beren's chagrin. But most of those below seemed interested in hearing Jack's story, as the girl had been missing for days and had been the talk of the town for the most part. Beren likely soon realized that the guard was talking to Nivi specifically, rather than the party as a whole, about respect. Regardless, as Beren tries to get his Ber-ings, his side fills with blinding pain, making him unable to focus on anything really. Bluto seems mostly content to meet his 'fate' though he does seem to look longingly downstairs, even boldly asking Beren Oi! Wuld ye buy me n' ale? I 'avent 'ad none in over a week and my throat's feelin mighty dry! he says to the knight, leaning over the rail. Bergomaster ain't 'ere yet, just a few sips?

Nivi once more looks far into things  with insight, though whether her insight is proven to be correct .. only time will tell. Stop mumbling to yourself elf... Or I'll start to get suspicious... Svenka says, as Nivi mumbles her mage hand back into existence, but the guard seems almost too frustrated to really do anything. The guard had overheard Nivi telling the others as well, as Nivi had spotted them from the stairs as everyone was walking, but had made no comment then, but sighed heavily before saying Those are likely hunters. If you are found innocent, you may want to ask them about the lay of the land. Pay them and they may guide or teach you some things. Consider that my 'olive branch,' noodle limbs. she said to Nivi.

Shiv finding no immediate path in, unless he wished to attempt to fly inside as the bergomaster entered. Meanwhile, Jack finally beginning to weave his tale to the crowd of half drunk vistani and humans gathered around, as they began to focus, some standing, others taking their seats once more. 

As Jack began they seemed intrigued, and excited, though as Jack began to describe who Nivi was atleast in appearance, they began to mumble amongst each-other Wasn't that pale elf a ginger? and similar commentary.  Though he hadn't lost them yet, they seemed a little less enthusiastic than they had initially been. But still listening.. They seemed confused as to whom Moira was, but as they did not realize she was the dark elf that had came in, they seemed to perk back up at the stalwart helmsman that sped them along the lake. Even a few cheers erupted at this part.

Their interest further piqued at the sound of a fight. Not so much against the undead, as they had become desensitized to such things, and those were usually kept outside the walls. But still, the way he weaved the tale made it seem to them, half drunk as they were that Arabelle was saved by boat even while undead bore down upon them. A misunderstanding to be sure, but that's what seemed to be rumoring amongst the throng. The two more gruff men listening intently, but not cheering or reveling.

Though at Jacks last comment, they seem to huff out confused murmurs, wondering what Jack could possibly be talking about... North of here? Thats just the lake n the mountains... he's of his nutter... and similar comments briefly filled the room as murmurs continued, though some excitement still lingering. As jack continued downplaying here, and embellishing there. Being mostly honest about Bluto's conditions, he occasionally heard murmurs of drunk? sounds like Bluto.... and like-commentary. Though at the mention of bewitchment a few theorized it to be Strahd, while others said it was likely some ***** of a hag. As he asked his own questions, he was told about a few, including the church, the coffinmakers shop, the watcherhaus, and a toy shop. As this was going on Urwins wife had came up with food for Arabelle, as well as some water, and a rag, in case drinking outright was off the table. Arabelle began to stir but had not awoken just yet.

The people seemed to have mixed feelings on the Burgomaster. Some loved him, some thought he was a fool, but a good man, others feeling he wasted time on weekly festivals, while others championed that very fact. Jack would likely remember hearing about such a festival though nonspecifically.

Soon, the Burgomaster arrived, quickly walking through the doors, shouting above the thronging noise - asking Where is my daughter? Where is my little Belle? to no one in particular. He likely didn't know, as the guard who had went to get him hadn't been there when most of the decisions were made. Svenka was about to get up, but then looked at Nivi, and thought against it. Shouting down She is up here Luvash! which likely sends confusion through the party, as Luvash himself had said 'the burgomasters daughter' at one point. However, this would likely cause Nivi herself to question what was going on, as Luvash was the one who'd promised them much before.

Pushing his way past Jack with little concern for respect, the man made his way upstairs, with another man who looked like a vistani in tow, his hands were bound, and he was held by two other gate guards, or atleast people in similar attire. He looked into the room, seeing first Svenka, then Nivi. He eyes Beren neutrally, then Bluto, dull curiosity playign on his face, as he asks the obvious.

So elf, tell me what happened to my daughter. And Svenka, why is she bound so? 

As much as what little pride the Eladrin had might later claim the little errors on his part during the storytelling were intentional, and to a certain degree they had been in order to keep his audience engaged among other things, even Jack couldn't fully fool himself. This knowledge hadn't kept him from continuing to weave the tale, as back peddling could only sow more unnecessary confusion and make him lose the crowd altogether! And just when he'd begun to formulate the next series of question he might level upon the crowd, the Burgomaster's arrival and outcry for his daughter immediately snapped up the Eladrin's attention, as he all but gave himself whiplash trying to turn around in time to take in the man's countenance and entrance in full.

With soft grin Jack gestured up towards the step in response to the 'Luvash's' question, but could say no more before Svenka or whoever it was yelled down further confirming things. Although his grin soon faltered at being pushed past, Jack be nimble as he was quick(when he wanted to be), so managed to keep his balance easily enough. And not wanting to miss out on the action, he'd give what few of his captive audience were still looking to him a quick bow before aiming... well, he -had- intended to scamper up after the procession once the quartet were a little more settled, only to instead stop and lean over to a nearby customer(the most sober one he might've noticed earlier) to whisper, "That man bound up with those guards.. Recognize him by any chance and who he might be?"  

Once he had answer(or lack thereof), Jack nodded and at least affected a more serious expression before casually scampering his way up stairs for at least a better look at what was to follow from a better view. He is, however, a bit more mindful of the rudeness of the burgomaster and his men, and so would try to make a point of not getting so close as to alarm or wind up shoved off the balcony once they inevitably turned about to head back downstairs.

Beren winces visibly at the pain in his side, which drew his attention away from the crowd below. In fact it was so distracting that he didn't even see the two that Nivi pointed out. At least the elf was perceptive...especially considering his own vision seems to be suffering due to exhaustion. He listens in when Svenka explains who the two were, but doesn't comment, realizing this time that the words were meant for Nivi. 

When Buto speaks up, Beren simply ignores him. There was no point in talking to the drunkard, and currently he's preoccupied with his own ailments. Fortunately, the pain eventually subsided, though he has a feeling that any little movement could spark it again. For now, he just remains in his place leaning against the wall and listens to Jack's retelling, taking note of whatever changes the elf decides to make. Why downplay his own role? That didn't make sense, but who was he to judge. 

When the burgomaster comes in, it takes Beren a moment to recognize the name. Wasn't Luvash the man Nivi was speaking to when they met her? Admittedly, during the 'banter' at the beginning of that meeting, he hadn't payed too much attention to the man standing in the background. He'd just wanted a heading and to be on their way. So that fellow was the burgomaster all along? He watches the man as he ascends the stairs, taking note of his neutral and then curious expression. Then he simply waits to see how the rest of the encounter pans out. 

Throughout the wild encore of Jack's tale, Olamoira stands near the doorway to watch the frail, unconscious girl laying on the bed. A terrible fascination seems to have seized her, of this would-have-been sacrifice, just barely rescued. By O' Nimble Nivi, the Crimson Thorn, and Olamoira the Sun-Touched. Jack's exaggerated descriptions drift past her hearing like notes on a breeze, catching her attention momentarily before swirling to join the dark morass of her brooding thoughts.

Her attention is then distracted from Arabelle's pulse and respiration rate by an odd sort of faltering from the beaming light next to her outside the door. The thought first crosses her mind, pulling her out of her reverie. Was the man behind the celestial Sun injured? Jack's tales of great battles and Beren's inexhaustible heroics likely hold some truth to them, and surely his tangle with the zombies on the beach was not his first rodeo. Tentatively, as if fearing she might be burned, Ola reaches out one hand, seeming to strain to reach although Beren is not that far away. It's the Divine light that calls her--of all the channels you could have chosen, I was not a fit vessel!--and finally she lays a hand on Beren's armor, stifling a cry of pain--or anticipation of pain, as if believing that she would be burned. She bites her lip. But a wave of healing energy concentrates itself in her hand and flows into Beren to knit together the edges of his wounds. Let the Light renew all things...

She stands there in a stunned reverie even as the Burgomaster ascends the stairs and begins to ask questions...

"No kidding, Smiley," Nivi deadpans in response to Svenka saying she might become suspicious of Nivi's mumbling.

"Wouldn't want you getting *suspicious*.  No telling who you'll throw manacles on next."

There is no heat in Nivi's voice, and has not been any essentially the entire time.  It should be clear by now that this is just how she banters.  Her main issue had been the implication that she was such a careless and shoddy criminal.

She has little reaction to Smiley's "olive branch" since the guard seems to be telling Nivi what Nivi herself had already said to the group (Nivi mentioned the two rough-looking men "may have a realistic assessment of the dangers we face in this land").  She does grin at the "noodle limbs" moniker, though.  We might just get that giant stick out of Smiley's rear end yet!  Maybe even before this crazy town decides it needs one less "ginger"...

Nivi observes the tavern crowd's reaction to the yarn that Jack spins, gathering without surprise that these backcountry yokels don't think much of elves, especially not pale-skinned ones.  The Eladrin seems to be overstating Nivi's own contribution, perhaps in a futile attempt to sway popular opinion.  My sister Tara would have enjoyed the tale, though.  And if anything, Shorty undervalued the Prophet.  She's the one that bloody saved the girl!

And Sunshine... Nivi glances at Beren's apparent pain, genuine concern on her face.  Can't have our crew's muscle keeling over at a moment like this...

But the thought is short-lived as the door opens.  The Burgomaster?  Luvash??  He's the girl's father?  Nivi shakes her head.  Oh, Lu-lu, you got me good...

Shiv flies in through the door as it opens and up to alight on Nivi's shoulder once more (60' movement with Flyby, taking the dodge action as he moves).  Recovering from her momentary surprise, Nivi grins impishly when Luvash asks about Arabelle and about why Nivi herself is bound.

"Your daughter's safe, Lu-lu.  Right there on the bed.  Could have told us earlier she was yours and that you run this town.  But these pretty bracelets?"  She holds up her manacles.  "Gift from Smiley, here."  Her voice drops to a stage whisper.  "You know, I think she fancies me."

Sighing ruefully, Nivi continues.  "Well that and the town drunk sitting right here.  Says I told him to 'sacrifice' Arabelle.  And I don't doubt he saw someone disguised magically as me, though why he would agree to drown the girl just to help his fishing luck, you'd have to ask him.  But give me this - I'd have to be not just a monster, but brain-dead if I plotted to kill or pretend to save your daughter and left him alive to tell the tale.  Instead we brought Bubbles back along with your girl after we tangled with zombies on the shore and the Prophet here saved her from the lake bottom."  She gestures with her chin at Olamoira.  "Smiley wondered if maybe I can change shape, but all the more reason to ask why I would appear as myself while doing it."

"As for how we knew where to look, you all but told us.  Riders searching east, west, south.  North on the lake was the only place she could be."

She pauses, thoughtfully.  "Something happened out there, no lie.  While the thick fog was on us, the undead were swarming and Bubbles here was comatose.  Throwing the girl overboard and then not responding to a thing.  Fog recedes, and suddenly he's all chatter about drinking and fishing and accusations.  Doesn't add up.  Someone with magic is pulling the strings on this.  Clouding the sky and clouding Bubbles' mind, both."

Shrugging, she finishes.  "Your call.  If you think I did it, not much more I can say.  But you think I didn't, then you know someone else set this up.  Using your daughter's life to sabotage your festival plans and blame it on a convenient outsider like me.  We could help you find who."  She winks at Luvash.  "And last I recall, you promised me a nice smile if we found Arabelle.  No one likes a welcher, Lu-lu."

Luvash wasn't trying to be rude to Jack, but anything between a father that actually cares for their child and... well, their child is an obstacle to be moved, but it took only moments for Luvash to make his way up, gliding past three steps at a time, while the others that had came in with him who held the captive man followed at a more casual pace. Th man they held looked to have been roughed up at-least a little prior to coming in.

Though as Jack leaned in conspiratorially, begging to know whom the roughed up man was, the man slurred out 'Ats old Vargas. Former burgomaster of the town, an' one o' Luvash's ol' friends. Sumpin mustah 'append fer 'im to rough em up like that. Luvash aint perfect but... he's a good sort... the man admitted before Jack found his way  upstairs to the now crowded balcony/hallway. With the eyes of everyone upstairs now, even from the ground floor, as Urwins wife sits between Nivi and Arabelle, with some soft bread crumbs and a flagon of water with a teaspoon as Arabelle herself opens her eyes, slowly, taking in her surroundings.

Luvash eyes Beren momentarily, though his visual tone was neutral, the man could see that Beren was in pain but his daughter was his priority right now. The man drug behind Luvash  being dropped to the floor unceremoniously near Beren and Bluto before putting their feet down on his back to keep him in place. Moria, once again being of little words or interactions, see's that her chosen champion is in pain. She likely saw it prior but it hadn't truly registered for her yet... atleast not until now. Moving forward, and callign on her patron, who still felt so far away, yet still granted her the blessings she possessed.. and as Luvash was making his way through the door, she walked just behind him as he passed to touch Beren gently over his wounds, causing a slight flinch from even the feather pressure, only for it to lessen moderately as the bruises receded to a dull pain rather than an active one as her healing flows through Beren's body.

Inside the room, Arabelle stirs, groaning from strain, exhaustion, and likely other invisible ills. Spittling out just a bit more water that had found her lungs to be a warm home, but soon after, catching herb breath as Nivi and Svenka go back and forth. the dm loving the manacle joke though Svenka seems put off by the insinuation of Nivi's comment. Downstairs there's a brief uproar as Shiv flew in, a chorus of 'whoa' and similar noises as the patrons grew furious that they couldn't opportunity attack the bird, feeling robbed of their turns before it flew in, past Luvash and the gathered to perch. Luvash seemed only momentarily caught off guard, but he'd seen Nivi with the thing many times...

Before Luvash could even begin to ask what was going on, Urwins wife gingerly feeding Arabelle some crumbs interspersed with sips of water to begin her recovery to fullness, Nivi started her elevator speech once more. Before even Svenka could get a word in.

Luvash listened intently, arms crossed the entire time, looking to whomever was being spoken of or pointed to, though his eyes fell on his now-recovering daughter almost as often. There was genuine concern on his face, but he also had his position to think about on top of it all. When Nivi revealed where she had been he half cursed... clearly he had honestly believed she wouldn't be in that direction... the fishers were all that was there... that and sometimes monsters. But it was the one place he clearly hadn't considered her having gone... and that if she had gone there, that ONE of the fishers might have seen her....

Svenka then told her own account, and by the end of it, Luvash could only say I can see the merit in both arguements. I lean towards Believing the elf, but as Svenka said, you don't know what life is like here Nivi. And you could have cooked up a plot to gain my favor. But I don't believe that is the case. Regardless, you should not dismiss Svenka's caution so willy-nilly either, my town is only so safe due to such vigilance.

With a sigh, he walked over to Nivi, and cuffed her on the side of the head, in the fashion of someone who was just pranked by a friend and wasn't actually trying to hurt them. After which he offered an atleast half-genuine smile I recall promising more than that, but if a smile is all you want.. Then we've got a deal! it was then that with a croak in her throat, Arabelle called out faintly P-papa....

Beren flinches slightly at the unexpected touch from Olamoira, only to notice some of the pain subsiding. He turns his mask towards her, the light flickering as if...uncertain. He'd never been offered healing so freely, having been taught to rely on his own magics to keep himself alive. The only healing he'd ever been given was when he was on the brink of death, when he could not fend for himself and the clerics decided they didn't want to loose their creation. Even when Jack had healed him back at the ruined temple, he'd been on the edge of life. It had been a surprise, but not so much as this. It bothers him that he'd been weak enough to let the pain show, he should be stronger than that. 

Tentatively, he reaches to touch the semi-healed wound, noting its smaller size and reduced pain. It wasn't nearly closed, but it was better than it had been. For a moment, he studies Olamoira in silence. Why was this drow so...fixated on him? Where did she come from? She...looks like a cleric--something he hadn't really registered before--what god does she follow? Her behavior is so different from the clerics he's known from the Church. Before this, he'd been set on ignoring Olamoira, not wanting to encourage her focus on him. He didn't like that she seemed to see someone else when she looked at him. Admittedly, this was better than her seeing him as some sort of sword to be used, but he still wasn't anymore comfortable with it than he was with the village folk calling him the Avatar of the Sun.

Newfound questions run through his head as the silence drags on. Then, he hesitates a moment before saying in a low voice, "...Thank you." 

____

As the conversation between Nivi and Luvash leads to what hopefully will be a positive conclusion, Beren allows himself a moment to close his eyes. He leans heavily against the wall, and the light behind the mask dims, until he lets out a breath sending out a puff of light. The moment is brief though, as he forces himself to stand erect and turn to face the room where Arabelle was waking up. He still has enough energy for one more spell in case the little girl needs additional healing. For now though, he still waits to see what happens, not wanting to impose on the conversation at hand. He'll busy himself with monitoring Bluto in the meantime. 

Nivi welcomes Luvash's cuff on the head with a warm and sincere smile, it being the most familiar and comforting thing that has happened to her since she set foot in this land.  Reminds her of some the boys she ran with back in her dock ward crew.  An unexpected tinge of nostalgia touches her.

Aware of having spoken at length to a father being reunited with her now-awakening daughter, Nivi stands, with a respectful nod to both Luvash and Svenka, and walks out to the balcony to give them some privacy.  Her back towards them and her manacled hands in front of her own belly.

Nivi continues to gaze out over the crowd for a time while attention is on Arabelle (or the injured Beren or tale-spinning Jack or elsewhere).  She is clearly not leaving the scene, just people-watching.  Genuinely observing the two rough-looking hunters that she had noticed and Svenka had described.

At a moment when no one is looking at her, with her manacles in front of her, her body blocking the view of Svenka and Luvash and others in the room, and the railing of the balcony blocking the view from the crowd, Nivi uses her spectral Mage Hand to take one of her palmed Thieves' Tools and quietly jimmy the lock to the manacles.  The Mage Hand is invisible, and she only chooses a moment when no one is watching, having been excused and the manacles hidden from view.  She herself is completely still, with the Mage Hand doing all the work.  Thus, I am assuming she can make the check with advantage.

Nivi Sleight of Hand at advantage:  24

If successful, she leaves the manacles seemingly still binding her, just subtly unlocked and on her wrists for now, hopefully with everyone else unaware that they are unlocked.  Let's see if this gets a chuckle out of Smiley when she comes to take them off me...

(Nivi is not planning anything nefarious, just amusing herself).

If Jack had been given anything to snack on, the Eladrin would've surely been absent-mindedly snacking on the morsel while trying his best to keep an eye on the unfolding drama. Alas, unless freely given something at any point in time during the earlier storytelling session, the Eladrin's lips remained a touch parched, and hands painfully bereft of anything to occupy them beyond any fleeting need to keep balance on the crowded balcony/hallway. He also -- in his own limited capacity as his attention was want to waver -- tried to puzzle out more on what had happened given the state of the ex-burgomaster. But while eager to drop the effort and just bluntly call out questions regarding the man TO Luvash, self-preservation based instincts won out. After all, one didn't casually provoke a wild beast and a parental one at that unless they were of the lesser fey variety or cared not for their life!

... Still, a mild sense of frustration began to visibly build in the form of gentle rail taps and delicate brows being furrowed. Yet quickly had the feeling diminished in the wake of what little he could see and hear of the cutesy scene unfolding between Luvash and Arabelle, eventually even eliciting a soft "Awww~" from the Eladrin as well. Yes. Yes, he could wait a little longer and not spoil such a scene. Just as he would wait to grill Nivi further on her relationship with the Burgomaster, as either the man was too relieved to care about the younger elf's flippancy or used to it to some degree. 

AUUUUGHHGHGHGHGHGHGHGGH I WAS HALFWAAY DONE, 7 paragraphs in WHEN MY BROWSER CRASHED UFJSBN .fkjasnbkdnba.skjfha.sjkdblqwjygerfalsdh;vlk:NAZSf;lw~~~~!!!!!!!

Moira was doing her usual, of internal monologuing and hanging around Beren, apparently his appreciation silencing her for the moment as everything proceeded. The balcony at this point was crowded, especially once Nivi made her way out, tailed by Svenka, who was intent to remain the dutiful guard, to the point of placing herself on the side where the stairs were, thus forcing Nivi to run past her, or leap from the balcony should she try to escape. Beren leaning to ease his remaining aches. Nivi's eyes wandering round, though once they fell upon the gruff men below, both of them, after several moments though not in sync look up, eyes meeting hers, them watching her watching them. After a while they went back to their ale and meat.. mostly fish. Apparently, for better or worse, deciding that Nivi wasn't a threat.

Above, Nivi found a moment where Svenka was distracted by the Burgomaster, breif as it was, and expertly unclasped the manacles, though they would need to be held closed by her middle fingers.. or the mage hand...

Inside, Luvash knelt by his girl as they just finished gently feeding and hydrating the girl with fresh water. Urwin watching from the other balcony across from, and not connected to the one everyone was on, concern on his face for the girl clear as day as his wife returned downstairs, her job done, for now atleast. Both Urwin and his wife had raven-black hair, kept well enough considering the place. None having taken note of this till now, if at all. His wife heading back into the kitchen to continue serving the other guests, who had begun to go back to their normal places, as Arabelle was out of sight, and what was goign on upstairs couldn't be heard by those not there.

Bluto seemed to not mind his fate likely being decided just past the threshold of the room, as Arabelle was sat up, her father giving her a gently-firm hug of a man who thought his daughter lost, and every emotion therein, aside from tears... at-least on his part. He asked her to explain how it all happened, and after she took a breath, she spoke, her voice raspy, but intelligent, and sounding as though unhindered, she would grow into a strong, intelligent, and capable woman.

Arabelle began explaining that Vargas had began chatting with a woman while he was watching her and had gotten distracted. Not that she had minded... everyone knew her, and she was used to solo forays anyway. It wasn't long after, as she was on her way to the Vistani camp that she met a light-skinned elf woman, with fire for hair, who told her about a man needing help, who had been down in the dumps as he hadn't caught a single fish in weeks, and that he might starve without aid, and that Arabelle should help him in whatever way she could.

Everyone knew Belle to be kindhearted, so she went to look for him, finding him near the shore, where they chatted for a bit. Him saying just what the elf lady had, and when she agree'd to help in any way she could, he seemed to brighten, and that had made her happy too. It wasn't long before they both pushed off from the shore, and she asked how she could help. Him telling her to wait till they were deeper over the water. Him telling her that the vistani were lucky folk, always happy and that he needed to sacrifice her to the lake so he could reel in some fish, and finally both eat and get his favorite wine. She said she didn't know what a 'sacrifice' was but she agreed to it, then Bluto bound her, and that had scared her, before the bag was placed over her.

Fearing for her life, she began to scream, as she was unaware of what was going on, and felt she had been tricked but eventually, without food or water, she began to tire, falling in and out of consciousness for what felt like weeks (though it was only a few days in truth) and that she suddenly felt wet, and darkness surrounded her. During all this Luvash had looked to Nivi, Bluto, and Vargas, with varying degree's of ire or curiosity throughout it all. More oft on the two males.

Then, there was a long silence, Luvash kissing Arabelle on the cheek, and saying Rest up moonlight. I'll have Svenka keep watch over you. Daddy has to see the truth of this. But daddy believes you no matter what. Okay? a pause, before Arabelle nodded with a soft 'mhm'

With that, he told Svenka to go into the room and be vigilant of his little girl. To which she obliged, giving Nivi one last look, that held far less ire than it had before. Though still tinged with suspicion. 

Luvash reluctantly leaving his girls side to join those on the balcony. All of you, come with me. We need to talk. he said firmly, addressing Nivi, Moira, Jack, and seemignly particularly Beren. We'll rondezvous at the shack just out front. This is ... important. and with that, he moved to Nivi, who's back was to him, as she had been observing the pair below at this time, his arms slipping around her as she leaned over the balcony keys in hand. or rather 'key' that he attempted to place into the latch.

Beren's light flickers and he gestures towards Bluto and looks to the men who'd come in with Luvash, "I trust someone here will watch after this one. He hasn't been much trouble so far, but regardless I don't trust him." He glances towards the room where Svenka was watching over Arabelle, at least the girl will have a guard. Plus Bluto is manacled so he shouldn't be to much of a threat. 

He nods to Luvash and moves to follow him towards the shack he'd indicated. As they head out, he does his best to locate the 'hunters' that Nivi had pointed out earlier, thankful that his eyes hidden by his mask so they shouldn't notice him searching. Thanks to Nivi's description and letting him know their general location, they were fairly easy to find. So he takes note of them, and moves on. 

Nivi's fingers hold her manacles closed.  As she makes eye contact with the two gruff men below, the adventurers or hunters or men-at-arms, she gives them a brief, professional nod.  Shiv follows suit, though in the owl's case, his too-large eyes close and then slowly dawn once more like twin moons.

She is not too oblivious to notice Olamoira healing Beren, and the masked figure's terse thanks in response.  Can't say as I ever met anyone like them.  Sunshine and his Prophet.  She hears her old captain in her head, the Zhentarim Viper, giving her the first job she ever got in Waterdeep.  Surveillance.  Two targets.  Each of them's got a story, sure as the floating docks rise and fall with the darkmoon tide.  You want to live, best find them out, girl.

She rates her odds of understanding these two as... well, not good, and yet better then figuring out the Eladrin, now standing nearby.  Shorty remains a cipher to her.  Not for the first time, Nivi wishes she had paid more attention during her insufferable tutor's lessons on the Feyrealm.  Tara'ele, her sister had drank up every drop of lore, and even Alend'el, her warrior brother had seemed enthralled.  All while Nivi, stone-faced, picked a trinket from his pocket.

Not for nothing am I known as the shame of the Farstriders.

She listens to Arabelle's story behind her and finds herself oddly proud of the girl.  Steady on, kid.  You're all right.  Better than I was by a bloody sight.

As Luvash's arms encircle her from behind, Nivi turns.  "Lu-lu!  At least buy me dinner first!  And some better bracelets.  If I was guilty, I'd be long gone."

She removes and passes the Burgomaster the already-unlocked manacles before his key reaches them.  "You want to talk, let's talk.  Shack, on the roof with the ravens, out on the lake - anywhere private.  You've got to know we can help you.  And should be clear by now, someone's setting you up."

Jack made a silent 'o' with his mouth only to partly obscure it with a raised hand as he looked about without really moving his hand. 'Now the plot thickens!' He further thought before clapping his hands together and rubbing them gleefully together. Then another occurs and led the Eladrin to cocking his head to the side and raising a brow. "A shack? Truly?" He questioned. But as his ears pick up on the murmurs and so on of the patrons below, he soon righted himself and nodded sagely in agreement. "Fair enough, my good sir. Fair enough indeed. Intrigue may not exactly be my forte in the material plane sense, but further the fool would any be to deny your command in your city." He said, speaking or trying to at least speak only loud enough to really be heard by those on the balcony. Even then, his tone stayed bright and with a hint of warmth and jovialness to it. 

He too is ready to fall in line after whatever procession is to be made Luvash's request, but not without bidding his most "loyal" and "avid" listeners a goodbye wave in passing. 

(OOC: In case that first line is a bit hard to parse, as it was a bit difficult on my end to even describe)

Olamoira steps away from Beren after she feels the response of the newly knitted flesh, relieved that the spell worked. All life, given its proper outlet, follows its natural course. Somehow the thought makes her think of Jack, who looks as inextricably caught up in the drama of the situation as Beren looks tired and annoyed of it. The dark elf's expression, already somewhat distant as if in a reverie, seems to dissociate further when Beren thanks her for the healing. She looks back at him when he does, vaguely surprised. My duties were my duties, I deserved not to be thanked for them... but this is how creatures live on the surface, this is how they relate to each other, this is how they build the bonds they need to forge great heroic acts in the remembrance of life and virtue, to protect from evil the good things that are. Stiffly, she smiles at him in return for his thanks, the small attempt at socialization rather than groveling reverence feeling very strange and awkward to her as the celestial vision still crowded around her peripherally.

Olamoira steps closer to hear the wakening Arabelle's tale to her father. It still pains her to look at the girl, to look at the obvious affection and concern between the strong and the weak, the parent and the offspring. Her fingers tremble a little and she twists them together to still them. My people knew nothing but power and violence, use and suspicion. The bonds of nature they had long forgotten in their service of blood. In my service of blood... where duty and exactness blotted out any warmth or weakness... Sylkalana taught me weakness, through her own weakness... and the price she paid for it. The price I paid for not allowing my own weakness. The remorse and misery washes over her again. Something so innocent and natural as the scene before her has been lost to her for centuries, but she is grateful that she now sees the value in it, even if she cannot share it.

Even Jack and Nivi's enthusiasm for the Burgomaster's suggestion as he quickly takes the group into his confidence only reinforces the strange, family feel she is basking in. Oblivious to the crowd in the tavern or to the careful perceptions of her comrades in picking out potential allies and enemies, Olamoira loyally drifts after her new friends as if in a dream.

But the atmosphere would change quickly to the serious and the secretive as they entered the Burgomaster's shack rendezvous...

One of the men, with a rather striking appearance  looked Bluto over with a mix of disgust and faint ever so faint pity. Initially it seemed like he'd refuse but had changed his mind. Taking Bluto by the manacles themselves. We'll deal with him. Luvash likely has plans. He wouldn't be dragging you all off otherwise. But don't worry, we'll take care of him. His punishment, if any, has yet to be decided. The man informed Beren as he began to move Bluto along forcibly, despite his compliance with the action making his way down the stairs, Bluto stumbling and falling all the way down, causing the congregated to look, Urwin included, though this time there was an air of anticipation and anxiety as Bluto was escorted out. Though unlike before they stayed seated. The two more gruff men shaking their heads but chuckling a bit, though at the situation or his misfortune, was hard to tell.

Though only moments before the pair had given Nivi a strange look of confusion when she nodded at them so familiarly. Their expression of of 'do we know 'er? I think I'd remember that face if we did' sort of expression only one of them half nodding back before Bluto had fallen down the stairs, with nary a complaint aside from a few pained sounds. They had watched the owl act strangely, though they seemed more surprised that it seemed so intelligent, as well as other more hidden thoughts.

Within the room, Arabelle herself seems content to sit on the bed, clearly looking exhausted but like, with time, that she'd overcome this like a child with a scab. For now, she nibbled on the bread, and had begun to sip the water herself, with help from Svenka when she looked unsteady. If it hadn't already been noticed, Luvash, Arabelle, and Svenka all had brighter tones of clothing, even if Arabelle had been under water, fading the appearance. Likely they would have changed her out of her wet clothes if not for the sheer number of eyes.

Luvash sighs at Nivi's quip, as if it had brought back all the memories of dealign with her before. Look el- Nivi. You're a damn fine looking woman. But I ain't planning to replace Arabelles late mother. his tone was neutral holding neither sadness or anger, or any other real emotion, though even despite this the faintest pang of loss was in his tone. Though as the manacles are  so easily removed, he sighs heavily. Should have expected.... with that he bonks her on the head with the wooden part of the manacles. Just soft enough not to hurt, but enough to make someoen flinch in anticipation You're lucky I believe your stories. Though I had some convincing in the between time. he said, admitting something yet not revealing it.

Taking the manacles in hand,  and keeping them on his person. he seemed half ready to make a joke about he might still need them on her for later but... he holds back. His spirits were clearly higher than they had been when he'd been so frustrated with her. Regardless the man sighed as he watched everyone go their ways, taking one last, long look at his daughter, his expression settling into something incomprehensible, likely something you'd have to have a child to understand.

yeah... it's uh, just outside the Tavern to the left. before the road. I'll be there momentarily. he assured Nivi. Though at her words near the end, he doesn't respond. When we're outside. is all he says. Nodding to Jack in response to his own question and eventually, the whole group makes their way outside, most ,but not all of the patrons watching it go. Urwin included as he finally seemed to come out from where he was. as everyone follows, including the two men with him, their prisoner who wasn't speaking, seeming to be too guilt or shame ridden to, Bluto stumbling into the area.

He nods to the one man who was holding Bluto, instead, holding him himself as he does. The man runs off to go do something likely spoken of before, and he turns to the group, he grabs Nivi by the chin. and gently guides.... her eyes to his mouth, and offers a genuine smile as he lets her jaw go. he just wanted to make sure she saw it, so she couldn't claim she had been robbed her due. Then he turns his smile to the rest of the party.

Well ****, you guys... he said in the least professional manner.... Maybe someone else would have found her. Maybe she would have saved herself somehow.. but maybe's don't matter in reality. The fact is you all saved my daughter, my one shining moon in this blasted, dark land. he sucks in air. The fish will be ready tomorrow, But I can pay for your food tonight. Urwin will prove you with free water, but I can't get you free wine.... his family owns the wizard of wines you see... the Quality's been getting poorer lately, though I'm not sure why, so if it tastes a little swilly... dont give him touch, he's a good sort. Each of oyu helped my daughter in some way, I'm sure the contribution wasn't even but that doesn't matter.  he said, trying to reassure anyone who felt like they weren't really needed. His arms moting wildly  as he talks but it's clearly just the passion of seeing his daughter found. 

First he looks to Nivi again I'll also give you each some gold. We... cant afford to give away much... I've hear a lot about ... your world, where gold flows freely, but here in Barovia... there hasnt been a single piece minted in hundreds of years.... so ther's not much to give.. and .. I'm sorry for giving you so much shit Nivayelle. he says, unable to pronounce it properly. The ... dusk elves, theyre the reason so many people hate elves. They .. killed Strahd's wife a few centuries ago... well one of em.

And he took his wrath out on he town, even to people who didnt do anything.. it was just the elves, but he attacked us all. Tahts why people get side eyed about you and yours. at jack, and Ola. I'll correct that tomorrow if... his eyes breifly scan to Beren... though he then looks to Jack.

Your friend told me your story, and so i came back to town since I figured if you found her you'd go there, he said 'He'd bet his candle' - i have no idea what that meant but, he was right. I.... he hesitates. A long pause drawing out before he finsihes. I... and many other vistani work for Strahd... not all of us.. but... most of us. And if a vistani ever tries to sell you a potion to 'get through the fog... it doesn't work. Only we can leave at will...

And tomorrow before things get started, go out to the place we all met, and ask for the 'treasure of Aht urgan' you'll understand when you're there.

he looks to Moira then, a bit puzzled but speaks anyway I've never seen a dusk elf woman myself, but I'm sure that the others will be happy. If you decid to bed one... I'd suggest Savid, aside from you all, he's the one who searched the hardest, and .. well found you to bring to us... so... And I can sense a strength in you Moira, you're just afraid to use it... Stop hesitating so much and strike. I don't know the specifics but you look more depressed than soem of the souless here. Whatever ghost is holding you down... isn't real. he didn't know what she had been through, or wa going through but he clearly had soem degree of judge of character.

Finally, looking to Beren... And I have a request of you.... eat your fill tonight, get some rest, and tomorrow, I need you to be in the Festival of the Sun  he says with a sigh. I know, I know, you aint the avatar... as he says that bluto, and Arrigal both look at beren then back to Luvash. But look... when a man worships a leaf, and he see's a leaf his spirit rises. it gives him hope 'its a sign' and all that crap.

I do my damndest here to keep everyone hopeful, we've no been attacked by Strahd in decades. I throw weekly festivals.. to keep people hoping. and you arrives just before the festival of the sun... glowing like it. It doesn't matter if it's real, you can fake it, HELL you don't even have to SAY anything, but would you swallow your pride or shame, or whatever it is... and yes the guards told me all about it....

And just tell a pretty lie? even if you don't speak? the people will see you, and it will give them hope beyond what they've ever had before... if you can do this just once.... I'll give YOU somethign very special. Somethign that might just help you accomplish your goal... if you can find the other part of it.

But that's my condition; you play a part..... I give you somehting that hasn't been seen in centuries.... somethign even my master fears.

I am so sorry for the delay..... 

please post your responses to whatever, and then describe your night. Tonight atleast nothing will happen thats bad, like do oyu eat? go straight to bed? try the wine? etc outside of NPC actions, you can assume anything such as ' I pay for a room, and use it' and if you want to do anythign else, like sneak through panels and such nibbles, post it there, Once everything gets resolved, we'll move to 'tomorrow'

As the party reconvenes with the Burgomaster in the shack, Olamoira stands quietly and listens. What a strange tale the Vistani weaves. Enchanted wine, leaving the fog, strange and hidden artifacts unlocked by unknown words. It's all too strange for her to keep it straight, but she finds herself listening as intently to it as she sometimes watches Jack. It's alive.

Until, at least, the Burgomaster looks at her, and speaks so frankly. She stands shocked, hoping it doesn't show on her face. Bed a dusk elf? I've been a temple virgin for centuries. It's almost funny, because she wouldn't know what to do, but whatever mirth she might find in the idea is impossibly soured by its similarity to her little sister's crime. Her only crime. Sylkalana... And that's when she realizes it. That is the ghost that always haunts her. Her sister. Ola drops her gaze, looks at her hands. They look covered in blood to her. She's seen them so, many times, and the vision sometimes won't quite go away.

A great spirit of mercy I received, that the celestial touch took my hand, and touched my brow, and that I did not turn away, but forced, kept my eyes open, and ever since I was able to see, to see the light that burned at the darkness that I was.

And, tomorrow, the Festival of the Sun! A broad smile breaks over Ola's face. Her gaze, ecstatic with the celestial vision that fills it once more, fixes on the charge blazoned on Beren's armor, the wings and the diamond. Strahd will not withstand this...