The gathering continues on for a bit. Others join in the music making with their instruments of choice. Chadwick's sister plays a flute, his brother a drum and one of the cousins a lute. All are pretty good and have clearly played together many times. There is visiting and getting to know one another as everyone enjoys the cask of Monstordrink Mist while enjoying the impromptu celebration of Chadwick's return home. Each of you look about and see smiling faces in this idyllic, pastoral setting. But, they are practical people as well. The evening is not very late at all when the kids all head for their beds, mostly directed to their beds by their parents. The adults bid good night and head for sleep as well. The morning sun is coming, and with it a new day's work to be done. Each of you are set up with a place to sleep for the night as the tables are brought in and clean up is completed.
As the tables are cleared Trolkarl stands Friends of the Company- and family of Chadwick- thank you for your hospitality this evening. Your home is warm and welcome. I have no doubt as to where our friend finds his spirit of strength.
Glancing at the door Our road to your home was shaped by long travel and more than a few sleepless nights. I apologize on behalf of myself and of course, the company for any lack of gratitude we may have shown and beg you to forgive our weariness.
Turning again to the family and raising his goblet slightly To the Jenkins family, and the peace you have kept. May it hold as strong tomorrow as it has tonight.
Kragen raises his mug in toast at Trolkarl's fine close to the evening. Loudly "here, here! May Tyr continue to bless the Jenkins family with fertile lands, abundant crops, and the comfort of Kin." slams his mug and hands it to Ma Jenkins.
Heads off to his temp sleeping arrangements to reflect and pray before retiring.
Sorry for the late response, here are my additions to the events.
--The greeting—
Chadwick reddens when Ma Jenkin’s refers to him as Pinky but continues to look on her fondly.
As ma Jenkin’s begins her introductions you wonder if perhaps this is the wave that crashes through town that Chadwick was talking about. When she mentions Hoid he adds “Ma I said gruff, that’s completely different!” He mouths “Sorry” and looks abashed. Ma doesn’t seem to notice and continues right over him. He tries to intervene a few more times explaining the outdated info she has, or smoothing things over, but she just rolls along. He looks to his father for help, but he just shrugs. Towards the end he just sighs and waits for her to finish.
Chadwick winces after Hoid’s introduction and clearly looks uncomfortable. When Starker starts going on about the Mind Flayer staff he tries to interject over the more gruesome bits, but he also doesn’t seem to notice and carries on with his lecture. He seems grateful that the others appear to have not taken offense from her awkward summaries.
Once inside and the meal preparations begin Chadwick seems to relax. Ma Jenkin’s directs the preparations waving a large wooden spoon much like a director. She doesn’t seem shy about using the flat end to hurry along someone who appears to be dawdling. There is an efficiency that even Jotrun would find impressive.
--After dinner—
When everyone is settling down in the living room and Pa Jenkins offers the pipeweed Chadwick starts to help himself using one of Pa’s spare pipes. Pa comments “Don’t use that one, the draw isn’t good. Here, I carved you this one. Been waiting for you to return from saving the world (he adds a bit of a smile at this) so I could give it to you.” Ma seems to disapprove but doesn’t say anything. Chadwick seems taken aback and looks at the pipe admiring the smooth finished wood and carved wheat stalks that runs from the stem to the bowl.
As Xymox begins his song Chadwick is captivated leaning forward hanging on every word. Afterward he finishes…” Thank you Xymox, that was truly a beautiful, I never thought anyone would ever write a song about me and my family.” He shakes his hand with a hand on his shoulder his eyes a bit misty.
When Pa asks about news Chadwick rises. “While I am no bard like Xymox I’ll try my best to fill you in on the details since my last letter. Too much time has passed since my last one, which I apologize for and any concern or troubles it may have caused.” He glances about The Company as his says that.
Chadwick then begins a recounting of events since his last letter. He glosses over the gory bits keeping it G-rated for the kids, and to not frighten his mother too much. Everyone in The Company is portrayed as heroes of old, while keeping his contributions minimal.
Performance check 21
Addressing his parents; “There is more to discuss about why we’re here, but for now let’s enjoy the evening and each other’s company. To life, health, and bountiful yield!”
--The troubles- -
After breakfast Chadwick addresses the table. “I think it’s time to talk about what’s been going on around these parts. For us it started when I got Ma’s letter.” He pulls out the letter and reads from it.
“Pa had a bad dream last night about a wall of black water sweeping down the mountain and washing Monstordrink away. I laughed and told him I am amazed at what his brain can come up with. He said he heard a voice saying, "The Covenant is Broken,"
“We all have dreams, and Pa has never shown any knack for prophecy, but then while we were celebrating the return from the mine in Shalecliff, which is (insert number of days) days ride from here all the MonstorDrink Ale went bad at once. It wasn’t just skunky, it radiated the powers of death. The two events brought dread to my heart and a need to return promptly. My friends graciously agreed to travel with me to investigate what was going on. During our trip we were having some issues with an artifact that was causing some (brief pause) issues. I had this dream, which I feel is related.” Chadwich seems uncomfortable but continues.
“I was a little boy at home, and my grandfather was there as well. The family was sitting in front of the hearth enjoying themselves except grandfather. He was sitting in the next room looking up at a shelf where a silver chalice with intertwining vines engraved upon it sits. I have seen that chalice every day since I was a kid. It’s grandfather's, given to him as a gift. As I walked over to him, he turned to speak to me, but his face is that of a corpse. Then grandfather's corpse said ".....keep the seal.....”
Chadwich pauses before going on addressing The Company.
“If any of you had any dreams that might be related, please let us know.” After any sharing.
“I would like to examine the farm first, then head over to MonstorDrink. I can use my Divine Sense and Kragen can use detect evil and see if we can find anything. Perhaps the others, looking at Xymox, can see what folks might be talking about that might be related.
Ma, Pa, if you need anything from town let me know. My plan is to leave after we finish our walk through of the farm.”
"Fair enough," Pa Jenkins replies to Hoid. "Hap Jenkins. You and I may get along well," he says with hand extended to shake. "And please give Liria some grace. We were not expecting you and she is beside herself with joy to have Chad at home."
(( Heroic Inspiration for everyone after the evening of celebration ))
(( Proceed with the action in the morning, after breakfast. For those of you who arise on a farmer's schedule and finish breakfast while the sun has not yet climbed over the horizon..... ))
Chadwick rises early with the rest of the family and the farm hands. He takes a few minutes to thanks Tyr for all his blessings on him, his family, and friends. The he moves out to the stable to assist with the horses getting them fed and ready for their day. He catches up with the folks he knows, and tries to get to know anyone he doesn't.
When he sees Kragen up and about he'll excuse himself and go and greet him. "Kragen, good morning! Last night was a grand celebration, my folks really took a shine to you. Now we must start looking into these dark matters though. While nothing Ill has been reported at the farm I would feel better if we did a sweep around the grounds. If you want to take the north side I'll take the south and we can see if we can pick up anything."
Chadwick will use Divine sense during his scouting. If ten minutes isn't enough he'll also use a casting of detect evil.
Kragen reports to Chadwick. "I have sensed no evil afflicts this farm Sir Chadwick. Suggest we gather The Company and head in to town and work to see if we can find the source, if there is one.", "The Bard and others can work the local pub while we seek out evil around the town."
Looks at Chadwick, with those odd Eagle googles on, cocks his head. "thoughts?"
Chadwick nods along with Kragen, then starts chuckling and smiling. "Friend I greatly appreciate everything you are doing for me and my family but those goggles make you like like a demented tinkerer."
He regains his composure, but still smiling fondly at Kragen.
"That sounds like a solid plan. Let's round up the others and head out. (Again chuckling to himself) Sometimes it seems like herding chickens is easier than getting this group on the road."
Starker to Chadwick: ”You have a charming family. I am an only child and we moved away from all our relatives to Waterdeep when I was quite young. Perhaps I understand some of our differences in outlook better now that I have more insight into both your nature and your nurture.
”I hope I can help discern and diminish whatever ill cloud hangs over Monstordrink. Let us investigate.”
Starker to Kragen: “I will remember your words and will continue to ponder how they should affect my future actions.”
Kragen chuckles at Chadwick fondly “indeed they do my friend! Hoid suggested they would enhance my perception… in which I certainly can clearly see more and at greater distances. However I wonder now if it was all in jest?! Ha” turns to gather the others.
upon encountering Starker, nods at his comments “good that you do Mage. I am oath bound to protect those of true heart and purpose, and I do see that you have genuine intent, even if it seems twisted at times. I have proven that you will not fall while I stand, you are apart of our brotherhood! Please do not test the boundaries of that trust with warped purpose.” then turns to go however stops. “I can handle the warped wit just not actions.”
Chadwick will take Freya and normal set of gear, but leave Daisy.
"Normally I'd say go with our chain shirts to not stick out too much, but any adversaries in town are already going to know we're here. It'll seem a odd having folks in town with heavy mail, but most know me so it should be too much of a bother."
Once on the road and out of earshot of family. "I want to return tonight rather than stay in town. I'm anxious now that we've made an appearance someone might target my family."
Chadwick- that chalice- your grandfather's - do you know where it came from? You said it was a gift... but from whom? And the words of your dream- did he ever speak like this while alive? Any old family stories passed down about him?
I only ask to better understand the situation. If we believe these dreams have any sort of meaning... well... I am pondering about the Covenant broken and keep the seal. What is the meaning of those phrases.
Smirking Perhaps it all means nothing. And maybe the only curse is whatever Kragen stepped on in the barnyard back there. Truth be told that may be an improvement.
Starker to Trokarl: “Friend Trokarl, would you be so kind as to secrete this backup copy of my spellbook somewhere among your effects? I am wary of putting all of my eggs in one basket, as it were.”
The Company makes its way to Monstordrink. Chadwick is recognized by several people along the way again who call out greetings. You now stand before the bridge and guard house crossing the Aan River as it flows by town. The river is a fast moving mountain sourced river with clear water and appears anywhere from four to ten feet deep. Several small watercraft are seen moving about, mostly pole barges. There is a sailboat as well. The town is alive and active. There is a market in progress in the town square sitting before the Tower. That is the main building of town where the mayor and sheriff's offices are located. As well as the jail and town guard barracks.
The livery is to the right as you enter town. The butchers and tanners are located there as well. A mill sits just downstream from the bridge beside the brewery where Monstordrink Mist is brewed. There are two roadhouses serving as inns and taverns; the Pale Stag and the Docile Donkey. Both sit on opposite sides of the main square. The faint ringing of hammer on anvil can be heard from further downstream where the blacksmith is located. Many houses and apartments are located throughout the town of varying quality and sizes. Other shops and small businesses are located on the ground floors of these buildings with residences above.
The town is nestled against the rising slope of the forested foothills of the mountains. It is a quaint and somewhat picturesque village.
Chadwick- that chalice- your grandfather's - do you know where it came from? You said it was a gift... but from whom? And the words of your dream- did he ever speak like this while alive? Any old family stories passed down about him?
I only ask to better understand the situation. If we believe these dreams have any sort of meaning... well... I am pondering about the Covenant broken and keep the seal. What is the meaning of those phrases.
Smirking Perhaps it all means nothing. And maybe the only curse is whatever Kragen stepped on in the barnyard back there. Truth be told that may be an improvement.
Kragen chuckles fondly thinking to himself. Trolkarl has the right of it, Tyr put that there to keep me humble! Piety smells like a steaming pile of horse fodder you often step in… A subtle lesson indeed!
People entering and leaving town move around The Company as you stand there admiring the view of the town. Most have something at least mildly rude to say about you standing in the busy road obstructing the way....
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<Nothing to see here. Post edited due to alternate timeline.>
The gathering continues on for a bit. Others join in the music making with their instruments of choice. Chadwick's sister plays a flute, his brother a drum and one of the cousins a lute. All are pretty good and have clearly played together many times. There is visiting and getting to know one another as everyone enjoys the cask of Monstordrink Mist while enjoying the impromptu celebration of Chadwick's return home. Each of you look about and see smiling faces in this idyllic, pastoral setting. But, they are practical people as well. The evening is not very late at all when the kids all head for their beds, mostly directed to their beds by their parents. The adults bid good night and head for sleep as well. The morning sun is coming, and with it a new day's work to be done. Each of you are set up with a place to sleep for the night as the tables are brought in and clean up is completed.
As the tables are cleared Trolkarl stands
Friends of the Company- and family of Chadwick- thank you for your hospitality this evening. Your home is warm and welcome. I have no doubt as to where our friend finds his spirit of strength.
Glancing at the door
Our road to your home was shaped by long travel and more than a few sleepless nights. I apologize on behalf of myself and of course, the company for any lack of gratitude we may have shown and beg you to forgive our weariness.
Turning again to the family and raising his goblet slightly
To the Jenkins family, and the peace you have kept. May it hold as strong tomorrow as it has tonight.
Kragen raises his mug in toast at Trolkarl's fine close to the evening. Loudly "here, here! May Tyr continue to bless the Jenkins family with fertile lands, abundant crops, and the comfort of Kin." slams his mug and hands it to Ma Jenkins.
Heads off to his temp sleeping arrangements to reflect and pray before retiring.
Sorry for the late response, here are my additions to the events.
--The greeting—
Chadwick reddens when Ma Jenkin’s refers to him as Pinky but continues to look on her fondly.
As ma Jenkin’s begins her introductions you wonder if perhaps this is the wave that crashes through town that Chadwick was talking about. When she mentions Hoid he adds “Ma I said gruff, that’s completely different!” He mouths “Sorry” and looks abashed. Ma doesn’t seem to notice and continues right over him. He tries to intervene a few more times explaining the outdated info she has, or smoothing things over, but she just rolls along. He looks to his father for help, but he just shrugs. Towards the end he just sighs and waits for her to finish.
Chadwick winces after Hoid’s introduction and clearly looks uncomfortable. When Starker starts going on about the Mind Flayer staff he tries to interject over the more gruesome bits, but he also doesn’t seem to notice and carries on with his lecture. He seems grateful that the others appear to have not taken offense from her awkward summaries.
Once inside and the meal preparations begin Chadwick seems to relax. Ma Jenkin’s directs the preparations waving a large wooden spoon much like a director. She doesn’t seem shy about using the flat end to hurry along someone who appears to be dawdling. There is an efficiency that even Jotrun would find impressive.
--After dinner—
When everyone is settling down in the living room and Pa Jenkins offers the pipeweed Chadwick starts to help himself using one of Pa’s spare pipes. Pa comments “Don’t use that one, the draw isn’t good. Here, I carved you this one. Been waiting for you to return from saving the world (he adds a bit of a smile at this) so I could give it to you.” Ma seems to disapprove but doesn’t say anything. Chadwick seems taken aback and looks at the pipe admiring the smooth finished wood and carved wheat stalks that runs from the stem to the bowl.
As Xymox begins his song Chadwick is captivated leaning forward hanging on every word. Afterward he finishes…” Thank you Xymox, that was truly a beautiful, I never thought anyone would ever write a song about me and my family.” He shakes his hand with a hand on his shoulder his eyes a bit misty.
When Pa asks about news Chadwick rises. “While I am no bard like Xymox I’ll try my best to fill you in on the details since my last letter. Too much time has passed since my last one, which I apologize for and any concern or troubles it may have caused.” He glances about The Company as his says that.
Chadwick then begins a recounting of events since his last letter. He glosses over the gory bits keeping it G-rated for the kids, and to not frighten his mother too much. Everyone in The Company is portrayed as heroes of old, while keeping his contributions minimal.
Performance check 21
Addressing his parents; “There is more to discuss about why we’re here, but for now let’s enjoy the evening and each other’s company. To life, health, and bountiful yield!”
--The troubles- -
After breakfast Chadwick addresses the table. “I think it’s time to talk about what’s been going on around these parts. For us it started when I got Ma’s letter.” He pulls out the letter and reads from it.
“Pa had a bad dream last night about a wall of black water sweeping down the mountain and washing Monstordrink away. I laughed and told him I am amazed at what his brain can come up with. He said he heard a voice saying, "The Covenant is Broken,"
“We all have dreams, and Pa has never shown any knack for prophecy, but then while we were celebrating the return from the mine in Shalecliff, which is (insert number of days) days ride from here all the MonstorDrink Ale went bad at once. It wasn’t just skunky, it radiated the powers of death. The two events brought dread to my heart and a need to return promptly. My friends graciously agreed to travel with me to investigate what was going on. During our trip we were having some issues with an artifact that was causing some (brief pause) issues. I had this dream, which I feel is related.” Chadwich seems uncomfortable but continues.
“I was a little boy at home, and my grandfather was there as well. The family was sitting in front of the hearth enjoying themselves except grandfather. He was sitting in the next room looking up at a shelf where a silver chalice with intertwining vines engraved upon it sits. I have seen that chalice every day since I was a kid. It’s grandfather's, given to him as a gift. As I walked over to him, he turned to speak to me, but his face is that of a corpse. Then grandfather's corpse said ".....keep the seal.....”
Chadwich pauses before going on addressing The Company.
“If any of you had any dreams that might be related, please let us know.” After any sharing.
“I would like to examine the farm first, then head over to MonstorDrink. I can use my Divine Sense and Kragen can use detect evil and see if we can find anything. Perhaps the others, looking at Xymox, can see what folks might be talking about that might be related.
Ma, Pa, if you need anything from town let me know. My plan is to leave after we finish our walk through of the farm.”
"Fair enough," Pa Jenkins replies to Hoid. "Hap Jenkins. You and I may get along well," he says with hand extended to shake. "And please give Liria some grace. We were not expecting you and she is beside herself with joy to have Chad at home."
(( Heroic Inspiration for everyone after the evening of celebration ))
(( Proceed with the action in the morning, after breakfast. For those of you who arise on a farmer's schedule and finish breakfast while the sun has not yet climbed over the horizon..... ))
Chadwick rises early with the rest of the family and the farm hands. He takes a few minutes to thanks Tyr for all his blessings on him, his family, and friends. The he moves out to the stable to assist with the horses getting them fed and ready for their day. He catches up with the folks he knows, and tries to get to know anyone he doesn't.
When he sees Kragen up and about he'll excuse himself and go and greet him. "Kragen, good morning! Last night was a grand celebration, my folks really took a shine to you. Now we must start looking into these dark matters though. While nothing Ill has been reported at the farm I would feel better if we did a sweep around the grounds. If you want to take the north side I'll take the south and we can see if we can pick up anything."
Chadwick will use Divine sense during his scouting. If ten minutes isn't enough he'll also use a casting of detect evil.
Chadwick and Kragen are able to take a tour of the farm and buildings as well as the wells. Nothing seems amiss.
Kragen reports to Chadwick. "I have sensed no evil afflicts this farm Sir Chadwick. Suggest we gather The Company and head in to town and work to see if we can find the source, if there is one.", "The Bard and others can work the local pub while we seek out evil around the town."
Looks at Chadwick, with those odd Eagle googles on, cocks his head. "thoughts?"
Chadwick nods along with Kragen, then starts chuckling and smiling. "Friend I greatly appreciate everything you are doing for me and my family but those goggles make you like like a demented tinkerer."
He regains his composure, but still smiling fondly at Kragen.
"That sounds like a solid plan. Let's round up the others and head out. (Again chuckling to himself) Sometimes it seems like herding chickens is easier than getting this group on the road."
Starker to Chadwick: ”You have a charming family. I am an only child and we moved away from all our relatives to Waterdeep when I was quite young. Perhaps I understand some of our differences in outlook better now that I have more insight into both your nature and your nurture.
”I hope I can help discern and diminish whatever ill cloud hangs over Monstordrink. Let us investigate.”
Starker to Kragen: “I will remember your words and will continue to ponder how they should affect my future actions.”
Kragen chuckles at Chadwick fondly “indeed they do my friend! Hoid suggested they would enhance my perception… in which I certainly can clearly see more and at greater distances. However I wonder now if it was all in jest?! Ha” turns to gather the others.
upon encountering Starker, nods at his comments “good that you do Mage. I am oath bound to protect those of true heart and purpose, and I do see that you have genuine intent, even if it seems twisted at times. I have proven that you will not fall while I stand, you are apart of our brotherhood! Please do not test the boundaries of that trust with warped purpose.” then turns to go however stops. “I can handle the warped wit just not actions.”
Travel to Monstordrink with horses? All of your gear?
Chadwick will take Freya and normal set of gear, but leave Daisy.
"Normally I'd say go with our chain shirts to not stick out too much, but any adversaries in town are already going to know we're here. It'll seem a odd having folks in town with heavy mail, but most know me so it should be too much of a bother."
Once on the road and out of earshot of family. "I want to return tonight rather than stay in town. I'm anxious now that we've made an appearance someone might target my family."
As the group moves toward town
Chadwick- that chalice- your grandfather's - do you know where it came from? You said it was a gift... but from whom? And the words of your dream- did he ever speak like this while alive? Any old family stories passed down about him?
I only ask to better understand the situation. If we believe these dreams have any sort of meaning... well... I am pondering about the Covenant broken and keep the seal. What is the meaning of those phrases.
Smirking
Perhaps it all means nothing. And maybe the only curse is whatever Kragen stepped on in the barnyard back there. Truth be told that may be an improvement.
Starker to Trokarl: “Friend Trokarl, would you be so kind as to secrete this backup copy of my spellbook somewhere among your effects? I am wary of putting all of my eggs in one basket, as it were.”
The Company makes its way to Monstordrink. Chadwick is recognized by several people along the way again who call out greetings. You now stand before the bridge and guard house crossing the Aan River as it flows by town. The river is a fast moving mountain sourced river with clear water and appears anywhere from four to ten feet deep. Several small watercraft are seen moving about, mostly pole barges. There is a sailboat as well. The town is alive and active. There is a market in progress in the town square sitting before the Tower. That is the main building of town where the mayor and sheriff's offices are located. As well as the jail and town guard barracks.
The livery is to the right as you enter town. The butchers and tanners are located there as well. A mill sits just downstream from the bridge beside the brewery where Monstordrink Mist is brewed. There are two roadhouses serving as inns and taverns; the Pale Stag and the Docile Donkey. Both sit on opposite sides of the main square. The faint ringing of hammer on anvil can be heard from further downstream where the blacksmith is located. Many houses and apartments are located throughout the town of varying quality and sizes. Other shops and small businesses are located on the ground floors of these buildings with residences above.
The town is nestled against the rising slope of the forested foothills of the mountains. It is a quaint and somewhat picturesque village.
Sure thing, Starker! I’d be happy to carry your back-up book in my pack. It’s all about teamwork….
Well teamwork and the reminder of value of the book when deciding how you decide to shape your spells.
Kragen chuckles fondly thinking to himself. Trolkarl has the right of it, Tyr put that there to keep me humble! Piety smells like a steaming pile of horse fodder you often step in… A subtle lesson indeed!
People entering and leaving town move around The Company as you stand there admiring the view of the town. Most have something at least mildly rude to say about you standing in the busy road obstructing the way....