On their way through, Constance looks about for where the black smoke could be coming from, attempting to find the source of kindling. She would also pause near Viga and rise to her toes to better see the crest being added to the shield. The symbol of the tree certainly feels significant considering what they discovered in the square.
She keeps two bespectacled—and tired—eyes out for any other tree symbolism within the forge and shop area. Though that search is briefly interrupted as Rammand shows off a contraption she’s not seen before and she has to bite her tongue against a thousand questions. She does wish DERBIE was here so he might show Ms. Stoneforge the marvel of craftsmanship and engineering that the defender is.
((Is the heraldry on the shield recognizable by any chance? Representative of a certain deity or lore?))
Constance roll history or religion for the origin of the crest.
Viga doesn't seem to pause for a second when Constance comes near. She continues to hammer out the edge of the crest briefly pausing to examine it before moving swiftly away from Constance to quench the ornament!
Viga finally speaks but in orcish (if any one understands). It seems the smith isn't speaking to anyone in particular but the air around her, not exactly to Constance or the party. Then looking at Constance with a surprisingly soft expression Viga glances to Dulana then back. The half-orc woman then stands straight to her full 6'5" frame looming over the party as well as her own dwarven companion. Turning towards Dulana completely Viga calls out something in a soft tone still speaking in orcish to her companion.
"Oh, " Dulana exclaims temporarily caught up with Rammand craftsmanship and distracted. She excuses herself before she moves closer to her companion. "Viga invites you all to eat with us and rest awhile," she adds gesturing at the party as Viga nods curtly again and nods.
OOC It's now been close to a day and a half the party has been awake without rest. Everyone please roll a CON save DC 13. Constance and Persephone suffer disadvantage from their previous point of exhaustion.
Salamir smiles when Dulana translates Viga's words and it turns out to be a lunch invite.
"I have to confess to being a little tired and hungry, and you seem far more hospitable than the High Warden and her....you know. Perhaps we can break bread together and then introductions can be made properly", he replies, then looks to the others for their input.
“Sorry, I get caught up. A meal sounds fantastic. As for introductions, my companions are Salamir Hawkwinter, Persephone Perianth, Constance Drake, and I believe Eyes in the Dark is tending to the horses.”
Constance's features soften as she looks upon the two--whether it be a the wave of exhaustion that hits her square in the chest like a bulette or something else is hard to tell. The scribe takes a slow step forward, limbs like lead, and offers a hand to shake as she address the two formidable women, "That would be most welcome, thank you. Ms. Viga. Ms. Stoneforge. Though I must apologize for the scent of travel that no doubt accompanies us." She smiles warmly and sways slightly on her feet.
"Steady as she goes, my dear," Alphinius whispers at her.
((CON save: 4 oof. Bringing her to Level 2 of exhaustion. And the History check was a ten -_- ))
"Well indeed welcome! Yes...uh the newest addition to the citizenry has...uh surely changed the nature of our tiny village, " Dulana replies as Viga gives a loud snort and returns to the forge where she hangs her apron and ushers the party to follow Dulana inside the door she's opened leading down a short corridor before opening into a great room.
Constance doesn't recognize the crest. She could ask for them to information on the crest.
Dulana moves to the kitchen area while Viga stokes the hearth that's large enough to roast a worg in! Viga then turns to face the party.
"Apologies for me not speaking earlier," Viga begins speaking to Salamir and Persephone with a soft expression but not exactly a smile. "Dulana is the last elders left you see they haven't run off or... taken into care," she explains using the the last word more like a curse than it's true meaning. "I...," Dulana clears her throat in the kitchen, "we can offer any help you might need. Protection to sleep, a meal, and whatever questions you might have that we can answer, " the half-orc explains. "My...my wife Kurru has just disappeared two days ago right after Acker Gunnulf. Kurru is Dulana's only daughter. We uh...we help the twins escape to seek aid," she then explains as Dulana hurries to the sitting area where she sets down a tray.
The large brass tray is filled with all manner of pastries both savory and sweet as well as a large kettle she then puts on the fire to boil. She then goes to a cupboard where she takes down enough cups for everyone.
"Unless you'd like something stronger tea will be ready soon," Dulana explains taking a seat closer to Viga and exchanging glances. "What uh...how much did the twins explain," the dwarven woman asks next looking out over the party.
Salamir starts to properly relax when Viga explains who she and Dulana actually are. He had been worried that they were affiliated with the High Warden, but to know that Dulana was a village elder was more than he could have hoped.
"Don't give a second thought", he says to Viga regarding her apology. "I noticed you looking at us in the church before you left and figured something was up, I just didn't know what. I am glad it was because you and Dulana are on the side of the village".
When tea is offered he accepts. "I guess it is a little early in the day even for me to ask something stronger", he says throwing a wink to Constance before spotting how exhausted she is and moving to help her to a seat.
As he does so, he explains a little of what they know. "As far as we were told, we were looking out for some kind of creature that took the twins the father along with some livestock. We had no idea about the High Warden and her lackeys. I think you had better start from the beginning in truth, because what we have walked into is beyond strange".
"The shadows started not long after they felled the yew tree...our...," Dulana begins with a frown as Viga impulsively interrupts.
Dulana then stands again to start serving tea as her daughter-in-law speaks.
"No, no...we should go back further, " Viga says shaking her head as she moves her tea cup towards Dulana. "High Warden Reeves arrived with minimal entourage about a year ago looking for recruits. It seemed to her our village was prime location for a new bastion of faith considering the crossroads and market, " she explains looking to Dulana who nodds her head in approval before excusing herself to hand Rammand the teapot while she gets a knitted blanket for Constance and hands it over. "We've been occupied since," the half-orc says curtly. "They then decided the building they assumed ownership of was not grand enough. So, they built the temple out of stones they scavenged from the ruins of an ancient wizard's tower just north east of town," at thd mention of that Dulana visiblely shivers. "That," she exclaims but then pauses for emphasis, "that is when the initial disturbance started. The villagers began to see dead ancestors and the temple began experiencing hauntings as well serious encounters with spirits. The elders then prayed to the old gods at the yew tree like they always have in the past in times of trouble. High Warden Reeves however insisted on putting our faith in the Dawn Father and rallied her garrison to removing the tree altogether. None of those bastards could abide worship of another god in the face of the Dawn Father's light," Viga adds through gritted teeth and bared tusks. "These people took me in when I had nothing but the clothes on my back. We....Kurru and I were married under that tree as is the custom here. It's stood against the Spell Plague and the wars fought on this land for nearly a milliena and they cursed it and felled it like so much kindling," she laments as Dulana whipes a tear off her the apple of her cheek. "The...the shadow beasts came after the tree..., " she begins again in a sorrowful voice but pauses as Dulana interrupts with an exclamation!
"The felled our guardian and the shadows began to take the most devout amongst us," Dulana explains.
Persephone sips her tea as she asks. "Is there more detail? If the tree was a guardian, what did it guard against? Is there a history of Evil, bound shadows, a thin veil between worlds? I'm trying to think "how do we stop it without the tree". Perhaps the wizard tower is the key. Something fell carried with the stones. Constance, what do you think?"
Constance, grateful for Salamir's assistance and cozier than she's felt in months between the tea, the knit blanket, the impeccably crafted chair, and the comforting presence of the two women, is drifting to the left while her quill--mid note-taking--drifts to the right. At being addressed, she quickly straightens her posture, rapidly blinking the threat of sleep from her heavy lids.
"Mmm, mhm!" she nods emphatically, pushing her glasses back up her nose and pulling the blanket tighter around her shoulders. "It could certainly be related. Is much known about the wizard that inhabited it? Or why it came to ruin?" she asks of Viga and Dulana.
"It does sound as though, and forgive me for the melodramatics, but... revenge. If these shadow beasts are specifically targeting your most devout, it could be that there is a puppeteer pulling their strings. Though that's entirely theoretical and I certainly don't have the evidence to support such a claim. But, if it is, then your stolen kin are likely still alive, otherwise why not kill them on the spot? There's certainly a chance they're being... collected for some purpose or another. A ritual. Vengeance upon the old gods or new, perhaps." She seems to fizzle out of energy for this stream of consciousness, sinking a bit lower in her seat.
She ponders other possibilities, other theories and hypotheses, but the fog of her mind makes it difficult. It's a moment later that she looks to the partner and mother left behind with a deep sincerity in her big brown eyes. "I am sorry. So very sorry for what you're going through," she says, then casts her gaze down to the floor.
I understand what it is to lose someone you love, is a sentiment she leaves unspoken.
(OOC: It's about noon? What time does it get dark? To find out if we have time for a long rest. Would a combination of 6-7 hours rest + riding count as a long rest? Is northwest in the Gunnulf farm direction?)
To the party: "We should check on Ed. He knows we're here, but I don't know if he'll come over or expects us to meet him."
Turning to our hosts: "Is there a place our horses can stay?"
"Only rumors, " Dulana begins taking her seat again once everyone has tea. "Wizard was called Upo Srinshee," she explains. "A necromancer if the rumors are true but long before my time outside the mountain. My late husband was a tradesmen from here. He wooed me from my mountain and I settled her only in the last fifty years or so ago. The village has grown much in that time and was at the time of my arrival primarily human. So...no one alive here knows quite what happened with Srinshee," she adds. "Just what was passed down orally. Carrowkeel is home to common hard working folks. Srinshee is the only wizard that I'm aware of in a hundred miles," she says shrugging. "The tree is one of three in the area. It's said to be old growth from the great forest of the ancient elves that once to had a city in the canopies here. But again rumors. My guess is elder Gunnulf might know more or even elder Howard but he's traveling. He's a bard you see and knows a bit of magic. The man's more a poet than great practioner though. His powers fo not go beyond those of entertaining a crowd with stories, " Dulana answers Persephone. "As for the shadow beasts, " she frowns looking to Viga who is sipping her tea. "Well, I believe the tree held a ward but now it's gone. So, whatever it warded against has been able to move about. My daughter and Aker Gunnulf have a way with the domestic animals. They're shepherds. Aker a shepherd of the flock but my Kurru trades in leather goods. We raise cattle on our farmstead outside of town near the Gunnulf farm. The leather she makes for the needs of Viga's forge and my fletchery," she adds. "Both were snatch from their watch over the animals in the fields," she explains. "We realized the dangers but it...it's our lively hood," she adds cutting herself off with a muffled cry before she begins to allow tears to streak over her face. "Sorry," Dulana exclaims getting up as Viga stands as well.
Dulana gestures for the half-orc to stay as she leaves the room to steady herself.
"It's...it's been less than 48 hours Kurru disappeared. Almost week to the day Aker did. We've all moved into town now and the farmsteads are all abandoned. Those who could leave did but sent no help. That's why the twins were sent out for help. You've seen these Heralds of the Dawn as they call themselves, lunatics! You can't pray evil away! You have to stop it," she exclaims impassioned it seems not tearful like Dulana! "What do you make of the braziers?" Viga then asks the party with a cocked eyebrow. Then Persephone speaks. "Yes, we have space here in the paddock but it'll be tight if they need shelter from the elements if the weather turns, " she answers. "Space enough in here too for you all if you don't mind a bedroll on the floor, " sje explains gesturing out at the big room with plenty of room for the whole party once assembled to rest comfortably.
"Upo... Srinshee," Constance repeats as she jots down the name, erasing it a number of times with her magic quill until she's satisfied with the legibility--her penmanship clumsy from exhaustion. Perhaps this was a wizard Alphinius might've known, if only she had the power to help him recall memories from his life before the tome. "A necromancer would most certainly have influence over spirits and creatures of shadow." There's a small part of her that is disappointed to realize this might not be a beast they're after after all. That same part shifts from disappointment to guilt over such a thought, especially considering their current company.
As the two women explain the circumstances under which the two farmers were taken, Constance traces her gloved index finger across her lips in thought. "That would explain why the sheep were attacked first. And the hounds. To lure out the shepherd to protect his flock..."
The outpouring of emotion from Dulana surprises her, and she looks up from her journal just as the dwarven woman exits the room. "The braziers?" she repeats belatedly. "Well, despite their stench seeming to be conjured from the very Hells themselves, they appeared to be rather mundane. It seems unlikely that non-magical wards would have much effect against spirits and the like, though religious indemnities are more our cleric's purview," she explains, looking to Persephone.
The wizard then gazes up at the half-orc woman, studying her face and the pain hidden behind that passion. "And we will. We will stop it," she avows with righteous determination. This is their chance to make up for the life they lost--by saving others. "You are already doing so very much for us, I'm loathe to ask for more, but... is there an object of any kind Kurru might've been wearing or had on her person at the time of her abduction? And are there others in the town you would qualify as being 'the most devout?' A list of names would be most helpful in determining who might be targeted next, if anyone."
"Yes, our family crest is stamped in her leathers," Viga says shaking loose an amulet with the same tree beneath the rays of light under the disc showing Constance the se symbol she was attaching to the shield. "As for devout Dulana is the only one they haven't taken into care," Viga adds.
"They have mother Gunnulf and Phineas Potter," Dulana appears again having composed herself. "If Viga wasn't the smith they'd probably have me too," she adds patting Viga's shoulders.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
Salamir has been listening to all the talk about the history of the village and the circumstances of the disappearances, feeling that Sef and Connie are definitely the best placed to provide opinion.
But when there is mention of Viga being the smith, he interjects.
”I am assuming that weapons and armour are not your usual creations. Are you making these for High Warden Reeves or to oppose High Warden Reeves?”.
“We saw a shadow creature on our way here, some miles away. We assumed it might have been tracking the twins. It took the form of a wolf. I wonder if it takes the form of what is expected? There was certainly talk of wolves with the twins. You mentioned some spirits came appearing as dead ancestors, but if the village hasn’t been here that long I am not sure why”, he adds, then stands to go and find Ed.
"No. I don't make weapons traditionally but I did before coming here. I was a bit of a brawler in my youth but my fires here have made more weapons and armor in the last year than I have in the decade I've been here," Viga answers Salamir. "The shield is for me and the weapons are for anyone who can wield them but these people aren't fighters. As for the ancestors we haven't been here that long but some of the human families have been here for two-hundred years or more, " she corrects Salamir next. "Elder Potter's family settled here first when the gaurdian tree still had remenates of the elven city. As for the hauntings I haven't seen the shadow beasts myself nor the spirits," she adds.
"Yes, " Dulana speaks up with a softer expressions. "My husband's family have been here in Carrowkeel since the beginning of the human settlement," she explains. "The elves had moved on by then after Srinshee had built her tower but her tower was raised to the ground by adventurers so the local stories go and those people settled here," she adds. "Carrowkeel is old. The tower is old but the temple is built from those ruins," she reiterates.
Persephone sits down her tea and stands. "I'll go get Ed and we'll put the horses in the paddock. Then I can help you cook if needed, and we need to sleep. Thank you very much for your hospitality. Wake us at dusk if the Gunnulf twins haven't returned and we'll ride to meet them. If an owl shows up, he's a friend returning with a message. And if the Gunnulf twins return before dusk, have them stop by here before they go home. The tree was dragged toward their farm, I don't know if that'll repel or attract the shadow beasts."
"Quite a wonderfully storied history, then," Constance notes with apt interest. "Perhaps there is some recorded account here somewhere? Ancient texts that may hold some clues? Does Carrowkeel have an archive or library?"
As Salamir and Persephone both go to check on Ed, Constance sketches out the crest and the amulet in her field journal, paying close attention to the details. "And does your wife wear a similar amulet? Or a wedding ring? The more details the better. I may be able to focus my magic on locating a specific item on her person, which would, in theory, also help us to find her. Once we decide where best to start, at least."
The wizard's mind, exhausted though it may be, is moving a mile a minute, thoughts upon thoughts within thoughts, pieces of the puzzles rapidly put together then taken apart and realigned with others. Then the puzzle pieces becomes chess pieces, moved across a checkered board--move upon move with no checkmate in sight. Thinking aloud she mutters to no one in particular, "There are many moving parts to consider. Do we focus on investigating the shadows or freeing those taken into the wardens' custody first--those who might have more insight into what's at play here? Search the farm areas or seek the tower ruins? What tactics might we use to control the board? Bait the shadows into attacking on our terms, perhaps? Would a disguise be sufficient to fool them or would we need the devout themselves to lay the trap?"
"Constance Lydia Drake, you asked a question! Have the decency to wait for the answer," the awakened tome scolds.
Salamir heads outside with Persephone to try and find Ed, his thoughts filled with the history of the area and how it could relate to the shadow spirits.
"I wonder if the elves that used to live in the area left anything that we might find. If these trees were relics from an ancient elven forest and they contain warding magic, perhaps the elves were also subject to the spirits. It sounds as the though the necromancer built her tower some time after the elves left though", he muses with a shrug as they walk. "I wonder if the necromancer was the cause of the shadow spirits, or if they came to the area because they heard of the shadow spirits".
On their way through, Constance looks about for where the black smoke could be coming from, attempting to find the source of kindling. She would also pause near Viga and rise to her toes to better see the crest being added to the shield. The symbol of the tree certainly feels significant considering what they discovered in the square.
She keeps two bespectacled—and tired—eyes out for any other tree symbolism within the forge and shop area. Though that search is briefly interrupted as Rammand shows off a contraption she’s not seen before and she has to bite her tongue against a thousand questions. She does wish DERBIE was here so he might show Ms. Stoneforge the marvel of craftsmanship and engineering that the defender is.
((Is the heraldry on the shield recognizable by any chance? Representative of a certain deity or lore?))
Constance roll history or religion for the origin of the crest.
Viga doesn't seem to pause for a second when Constance comes near. She continues to hammer out the edge of the crest briefly pausing to examine it before moving swiftly away from Constance to quench the ornament!
Viga finally speaks but in orcish (if any one understands). It seems the smith isn't speaking to anyone in particular but the air around her, not exactly to Constance or the party. Then looking at Constance with a surprisingly soft expression Viga glances to Dulana then back. The half-orc woman then stands straight to her full 6'5" frame looming over the party as well as her own dwarven companion. Turning towards Dulana completely Viga calls out something in a soft tone still speaking in orcish to her companion.
"Oh, " Dulana exclaims temporarily caught up with Rammand craftsmanship and distracted. She excuses herself before she moves closer to her companion. "Viga invites you all to eat with us and rest awhile," she adds gesturing at the party as Viga nods curtly again and nods.
OOC It's now been close to a day and a half the party has been awake without rest. Everyone please roll a CON save DC 13. Constance and Persephone suffer disadvantage from their previous point of exhaustion.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
11 con save w disad
Salamir smiles when Dulana translates Viga's words and it turns out to be a lunch invite.
"I have to confess to being a little tired and hungry, and you seem far more hospitable than the High Warden and her....you know. Perhaps we can break bread together and then introductions can be made properly", he replies, then looks to the others for their input.
Con Save: 13+1=14
“Sorry, I get caught up. A meal sounds fantastic. As for introductions, my companions are Salamir Hawkwinter, Persephone Perianth, Constance Drake, and I believe Eyes in the Dark is tending to the horses.”
Con save 24
Constance's features soften as she looks upon the two--whether it be a the wave of exhaustion that hits her square in the chest like a bulette or something else is hard to tell. The scribe takes a slow step forward, limbs like lead, and offers a hand to shake as she address the two formidable women, "That would be most welcome, thank you. Ms. Viga. Ms. Stoneforge. Though I must apologize for the scent of travel that no doubt accompanies us." She smiles warmly and sways slightly on her feet.
"Steady as she goes, my dear," Alphinius whispers at her.
((CON save: 4 oof. Bringing her to Level 2 of exhaustion. And the History check was a ten -_- ))
"Well indeed welcome! Yes...uh the newest addition to the citizenry has...uh surely changed the nature of our tiny village, " Dulana replies as Viga gives a loud snort and returns to the forge where she hangs her apron and ushers the party to follow Dulana inside the door she's opened leading down a short corridor before opening into a great room.
Constance doesn't recognize the crest. She could ask for them to information on the crest.
Dulana moves to the kitchen area while Viga stokes the hearth that's large enough to roast a worg in! Viga then turns to face the party.
"Apologies for me not speaking earlier," Viga begins speaking to Salamir and Persephone with a soft expression but not exactly a smile. "Dulana is the last elders left you see they haven't run off or... taken into care," she explains using the the last word more like a curse than it's true meaning. "I...," Dulana clears her throat in the kitchen, "we can offer any help you might need. Protection to sleep, a meal, and whatever questions you might have that we can answer, " the half-orc explains. "My...my wife Kurru has just disappeared two days ago right after Acker Gunnulf. Kurru is Dulana's only daughter. We uh...we help the twins escape to seek aid," she then explains as Dulana hurries to the sitting area where she sets down a tray.
The large brass tray is filled with all manner of pastries both savory and sweet as well as a large kettle she then puts on the fire to boil. She then goes to a cupboard where she takes down enough cups for everyone.
"Unless you'd like something stronger tea will be ready soon," Dulana explains taking a seat closer to Viga and exchanging glances. "What uh...how much did the twins explain," the dwarven woman asks next looking out over the party.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
Salamir starts to properly relax when Viga explains who she and Dulana actually are. He had been worried that they were affiliated with the High Warden, but to know that Dulana was a village elder was more than he could have hoped.
"Don't give a second thought", he says to Viga regarding her apology. "I noticed you looking at us in the church before you left and figured something was up, I just didn't know what. I am glad it was because you and Dulana are on the side of the village".
When tea is offered he accepts. "I guess it is a little early in the day even for me to ask something stronger", he says throwing a wink to Constance before spotting how exhausted she is and moving to help her to a seat.
As he does so, he explains a little of what they know. "As far as we were told, we were looking out for some kind of creature that took the twins the father along with some livestock. We had no idea about the High Warden and her lackeys. I think you had better start from the beginning in truth, because what we have walked into is beyond strange".
"The shadows started not long after they felled the yew tree...our...," Dulana begins with a frown as Viga impulsively interrupts.
Dulana then stands again to start serving tea as her daughter-in-law speaks.
"No, no...we should go back further, " Viga says shaking her head as she moves her tea cup towards Dulana. "High Warden Reeves arrived with minimal entourage about a year ago looking for recruits. It seemed to her our village was prime location for a new bastion of faith considering the crossroads and market, " she explains looking to Dulana who nodds her head in approval before excusing herself to hand Rammand the teapot while she gets a knitted blanket for Constance and hands it over. "We've been occupied since," the half-orc says curtly. "They then decided the building they assumed ownership of was not grand enough. So, they built the temple out of stones they scavenged from the ruins of an ancient wizard's tower just north east of town," at thd mention of that Dulana visiblely shivers. "That," she exclaims but then pauses for emphasis, "that is when the initial disturbance started. The villagers began to see dead ancestors and the temple began experiencing hauntings as well serious encounters with spirits. The elders then prayed to the old gods at the yew tree like they always have in the past in times of trouble. High Warden Reeves however insisted on putting our faith in the Dawn Father and rallied her garrison to removing the tree altogether. None of those bastards could abide worship of another god in the face of the Dawn Father's light," Viga adds through gritted teeth and bared tusks. "These people took me in when I had nothing but the clothes on my back. We....Kurru and I were married under that tree as is the custom here. It's stood against the Spell Plague and the wars fought on this land for nearly a milliena and they cursed it and felled it like so much kindling," she laments as Dulana whipes a tear off her the apple of her cheek. "The...the shadow beasts came after the tree..., " she begins again in a sorrowful voice but pauses as Dulana interrupts with an exclamation!
"The felled our guardian and the shadows began to take the most devout amongst us," Dulana explains.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
Persephone sips her tea as she asks. "Is there more detail? If the tree was a guardian, what did it guard against? Is there a history of Evil, bound shadows, a thin veil between worlds? I'm trying to think "how do we stop it without the tree". Perhaps the wizard tower is the key. Something fell carried with the stones. Constance, what do you think?"
She turns to see if Connie is awake.
Constance, grateful for Salamir's assistance and cozier than she's felt in months between the tea, the knit blanket, the impeccably crafted chair, and the comforting presence of the two women, is drifting to the left while her quill--mid note-taking--drifts to the right. At being addressed, she quickly straightens her posture, rapidly blinking the threat of sleep from her heavy lids.
"Mmm, mhm!" she nods emphatically, pushing her glasses back up her nose and pulling the blanket tighter around her shoulders. "It could certainly be related. Is much known about the wizard that inhabited it? Or why it came to ruin?" she asks of Viga and Dulana.
"It does sound as though, and forgive me for the melodramatics, but... revenge. If these shadow beasts are specifically targeting your most devout, it could be that there is a puppeteer pulling their strings. Though that's entirely theoretical and I certainly don't have the evidence to support such a claim. But, if it is, then your stolen kin are likely still alive, otherwise why not kill them on the spot? There's certainly a chance they're being... collected for some purpose or another. A ritual. Vengeance upon the old gods or new, perhaps." She seems to fizzle out of energy for this stream of consciousness, sinking a bit lower in her seat.
She ponders other possibilities, other theories and hypotheses, but the fog of her mind makes it difficult. It's a moment later that she looks to the partner and mother left behind with a deep sincerity in her big brown eyes. "I am sorry. So very sorry for what you're going through," she says, then casts her gaze down to the floor.
I understand what it is to lose someone you love, is a sentiment she leaves unspoken.
(OOC: It's about noon? What time does it get dark? To find out if we have time for a long rest. Would a combination of 6-7 hours rest + riding count as a long rest? Is northwest in the Gunnulf farm direction?)
To the party: "We should check on Ed. He knows we're here, but I don't know if he'll come over or expects us to meet him."
Turning to our hosts: "Is there a place our horses can stay?"
"Only rumors, " Dulana begins taking her seat again once everyone has tea. "Wizard was called Upo Srinshee," she explains. "A necromancer if the rumors are true but long before my time outside the mountain. My late husband was a tradesmen from here. He wooed me from my mountain and I settled her only in the last fifty years or so ago. The village has grown much in that time and was at the time of my arrival primarily human. So...no one alive here knows quite what happened with Srinshee," she adds. "Just what was passed down orally. Carrowkeel is home to common hard working folks. Srinshee is the only wizard that I'm aware of in a hundred miles," she says shrugging. "The tree is one of three in the area. It's said to be old growth from the great forest of the ancient elves that once to had a city in the canopies here. But again rumors. My guess is elder Gunnulf might know more or even elder Howard but he's traveling. He's a bard you see and knows a bit of magic. The man's more a poet than great practioner though. His powers fo not go beyond those of entertaining a crowd with stories, " Dulana answers Persephone. "As for the shadow beasts, " she frowns looking to Viga who is sipping her tea. "Well, I believe the tree held a ward but now it's gone. So, whatever it warded against has been able to move about. My daughter and Aker Gunnulf have a way with the domestic animals. They're shepherds. Aker a shepherd of the flock but my Kurru trades in leather goods. We raise cattle on our farmstead outside of town near the Gunnulf farm. The leather she makes for the needs of Viga's forge and my fletchery," she adds. "Both were snatch from their watch over the animals in the fields," she explains. "We realized the dangers but it...it's our lively hood," she adds cutting herself off with a muffled cry before she begins to allow tears to streak over her face. "Sorry," Dulana exclaims getting up as Viga stands as well.
Dulana gestures for the half-orc to stay as she leaves the room to steady herself.
"It's...it's been less than 48 hours Kurru disappeared. Almost week to the day Aker did. We've all moved into town now and the farmsteads are all abandoned. Those who could leave did but sent no help. That's why the twins were sent out for help. You've seen these Heralds of the Dawn as they call themselves, lunatics! You can't pray evil away! You have to stop it," she exclaims impassioned it seems not tearful like Dulana! "What do you make of the braziers?" Viga then asks the party with a cocked eyebrow. Then Persephone speaks. "Yes, we have space here in the paddock but it'll be tight if they need shelter from the elements if the weather turns, " she answers. "Space enough in here too for you all if you don't mind a bedroll on the floor, " sje explains gesturing out at the big room with plenty of room for the whole party once assembled to rest comfortably.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
"Upo... Srinshee," Constance repeats as she jots down the name, erasing it a number of times with her magic quill until she's satisfied with the legibility--her penmanship clumsy from exhaustion. Perhaps this was a wizard Alphinius might've known, if only she had the power to help him recall memories from his life before the tome. "A necromancer would most certainly have influence over spirits and creatures of shadow." There's a small part of her that is disappointed to realize this might not be a beast they're after after all. That same part shifts from disappointment to guilt over such a thought, especially considering their current company.
As the two women explain the circumstances under which the two farmers were taken, Constance traces her gloved index finger across her lips in thought. "That would explain why the sheep were attacked first. And the hounds. To lure out the shepherd to protect his flock..."
The outpouring of emotion from Dulana surprises her, and she looks up from her journal just as the dwarven woman exits the room. "The braziers?" she repeats belatedly. "Well, despite their stench seeming to be conjured from the very Hells themselves, they appeared to be rather mundane. It seems unlikely that non-magical wards would have much effect against spirits and the like, though religious indemnities are more our cleric's purview," she explains, looking to Persephone.
The wizard then gazes up at the half-orc woman, studying her face and the pain hidden behind that passion. "And we will. We will stop it," she avows with righteous determination. This is their chance to make up for the life they lost--by saving others. "You are already doing so very much for us, I'm loathe to ask for more, but... is there an object of any kind Kurru might've been wearing or had on her person at the time of her abduction? And are there others in the town you would qualify as being 'the most devout?' A list of names would be most helpful in determining who might be targeted next, if anyone."
"Yes, our family crest is stamped in her leathers," Viga says shaking loose an amulet with the same tree beneath the rays of light under the disc showing Constance the se symbol she was attaching to the shield. "As for devout Dulana is the only one they haven't taken into care," Viga adds.
"They have mother Gunnulf and Phineas Potter," Dulana appears again having composed herself. "If Viga wasn't the smith they'd probably have me too," she adds patting Viga's shoulders.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
Salamir has been listening to all the talk about the history of the village and the circumstances of the disappearances, feeling that Sef and Connie are definitely the best placed to provide opinion.
But when there is mention of Viga being the smith, he interjects.
”I am assuming that weapons and armour are not your usual creations. Are you making these for High Warden Reeves or to oppose High Warden Reeves?”.
“We saw a shadow creature on our way here, some miles away. We assumed it might have been tracking the twins. It took the form of a wolf. I wonder if it takes the form of what is expected? There was certainly talk of wolves with the twins. You mentioned some spirits came appearing as dead ancestors, but if the village hasn’t been here that long I am not sure why”, he adds, then stands to go and find Ed.
"No. I don't make weapons traditionally but I did before coming here. I was a bit of a brawler in my youth but my fires here have made more weapons and armor in the last year than I have in the decade I've been here," Viga answers Salamir. "The shield is for me and the weapons are for anyone who can wield them but these people aren't fighters. As for the ancestors we haven't been here that long but some of the human families have been here for two-hundred years or more, " she corrects Salamir next. "Elder Potter's family settled here first when the gaurdian tree still had remenates of the elven city. As for the hauntings I haven't seen the shadow beasts myself nor the spirits," she adds.
"Yes, " Dulana speaks up with a softer expressions. "My husband's family have been here in Carrowkeel since the beginning of the human settlement," she explains. "The elves had moved on by then after Srinshee had built her tower but her tower was raised to the ground by adventurers so the local stories go and those people settled here," she adds. "Carrowkeel is old. The tower is old but the temple is built from those ruins," she reiterates.
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
Persephone sits down her tea and stands. "I'll go get Ed and we'll put the horses in the paddock. Then I can help you cook if needed, and we need to sleep. Thank you very much for your hospitality. Wake us at dusk if the Gunnulf twins haven't returned and we'll ride to meet them. If an owl shows up, he's a friend returning with a message. And if the Gunnulf twins return before dusk, have them stop by here before they go home. The tree was dragged toward their farm, I don't know if that'll repel or attract the shadow beasts."
Seph walks to the door and goes to fetch Ed.
"Quite a wonderfully storied history, then," Constance notes with apt interest. "Perhaps there is some recorded account here somewhere? Ancient texts that may hold some clues? Does Carrowkeel have an archive or library?"
As Salamir and Persephone both go to check on Ed, Constance sketches out the crest and the amulet in her field journal, paying close attention to the details. "And does your wife wear a similar amulet? Or a wedding ring? The more details the better. I may be able to focus my magic on locating a specific item on her person, which would, in theory, also help us to find her. Once we decide where best to start, at least."
The wizard's mind, exhausted though it may be, is moving a mile a minute, thoughts upon thoughts within thoughts, pieces of the puzzles rapidly put together then taken apart and realigned with others. Then the puzzle pieces becomes chess pieces, moved across a checkered board--move upon move with no checkmate in sight. Thinking aloud she mutters to no one in particular, "There are many moving parts to consider. Do we focus on investigating the shadows or freeing those taken into the wardens' custody first--those who might have more insight into what's at play here? Search the farm areas or seek the tower ruins? What tactics might we use to control the board? Bait the shadows into attacking on our terms, perhaps? Would a disguise be sufficient to fool them or would we need the devout themselves to lay the trap?"
"Constance Lydia Drake, you asked a question! Have the decency to wait for the answer," the awakened tome scolds.
"Oh, yes, forgive me! A wedding ring?"
Salamir heads outside with Persephone to try and find Ed, his thoughts filled with the history of the area and how it could relate to the shadow spirits.
"I wonder if the elves that used to live in the area left anything that we might find. If these trees were relics from an ancient elven forest and they contain warding magic, perhaps the elves were also subject to the spirits. It sounds as the though the necromancer built her tower some time after the elves left though", he muses with a shrug as they walk. "I wonder if the necromancer was the cause of the shadow spirits, or if they came to the area because they heard of the shadow spirits".