This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"I think we should all stay together as a group," Theldrin says with a thoughtful frown as he rubs his beard. "Checking in with the constable seems wise, and yes, we should see Maajid to the temple."
He continues as he scans the area ahead to see if he spots anything of interest, "Perhaps Sir Grover could suggest a place for us to stay the night."
Xanrym had been walking near the cart, mostly letting Avery or one of the others push the cart if they are willing. He engages in idle conversation at first, but by the time the group arrives in Orlane, he's lagging a bit behind the group, reading from a book as he walks. When Avery stops to survey the town, Xanrym doesn't notice until he practically bumps into the group. He looks up, surprised to see a town stretching out before them. He sets down his backpack, puts a ribbon in his book to mark the page, and puts it away sadly in his backpack.
"What say you friends, how do we look into these tales we have heard? While I want to check up on Sir Grover for my comrade in arms, as the constable of the town he should have a good knowledge of what is happening, especially if there is a threat."
Xanrym says, "Well, we should probably find a place to stay so that we have a 'base' in the town and a place to leave any gear that you wouldn't want to carry all over town, like that saddle and barding. But then I agree, the farmer whom we met at the Inn last night seemed to have confidence in Sir Grover still. I'd like to hear from the constable first to learn what he has been seeing in Orlane.'"
Looking around I am going to see if there is any sign of the rumors I have been told. Then to the group in general, "I am going to continue on to Temple of Merikka with Maajid to ensure his safety." Looking around, if I can see the Inn from where we are. If so I nod in that direction, " That Inn there looks as good a place as any to rejoin after you check with Sir Grover Avery."
Xanrym nods and says, "I'd like to go with you to the temple." He smiles at Maajid as he continues, "I feel bad that I wasn't able to heal your leg completely, Maajid, and I hope that the priests there can help."
Xanrym asks the group whether they're going to split up: "Should we all go together, Avery? We'll walk right past that Inn, so we could secure rooms before we go to the temple. Or do you want to secure rooms at the inn while Lldryk and I--and anyone else who wants to come--take Maajid to the temple, and then we can all go to over to talk to Sir Grover together after lunch?"
He continues as he scans the area ahead to see if he spots anything of interest, "Perhaps Sir Grover could suggest a place for us to stay the night."
"Oh!", Xanrym sounds surprised, "Do you think that even the Inn isn't safe?" He seems to have trouble imagining an inn that would actually be dangerous in a little town like this. "Yes, I suppose we could talk to Sir Grover first. Then get rooms at the inn and have lunch before we head up to the temple this evening. As long as you're OK waiting a little longer, Maajid? Talking to some people would also give us a chance to learn whether any local customs about requesting aid at this temple."
Theldrin's frown deepens and he answers slowly, "Well... we just don't know and considering what we've heard... yest it seems that checking with someone here who knows the situation might be the best place to start?"
Theldrin - There isn’t a lot of activity in the village. You see that in a couple of the farms there are some kids playing in the front yards, although they all go inside when they see strangers walking by. The inn that Lldryk nodded at had a large statue of some grain, coated in flaking cheap gold paint.
So just so I have the plan straight, your all staying together.
Morning - Constable’s Quarters to meet Sir Grover
Afternoon - Golden Grain Inn to book a room
Evening - Temple of Merikka to see to Majiid’s leg.
Ill be a couple hours before I can do the next post. If no one says anything until then I’ll just assume that’s the plan.
Xanrym may be able to command a room and be persuasive when the need arises (as seen during and after the troglodyte attack), but he's fundamentally a consensus builder. He agrees with accomplishing at least those three objectives today, and he thinks it's a good idea for the group to stick together at least until they hear what Sir Grover has to say.
After that, it might make sense to split into two groups (Inn and Temple). That way, they might have time to visit Alan Clayborn's farm this evening. But it'll really depend on what they hear from Sir Grover and how that impacts their assessment of the danger.
Lldryk is wondering if waiting to have Majiid's leg attended to and evening travel in a town rumored to be dangerous in an unknown way is the wisest choice. "Perhaps it would be in Majiid's best interest to get to the temple sooner rather than later. We should also maybe reconsider late day travel in this town. We have heard the rumors that it is dangerous in an unknown manner and we have witnessed for ourselves the Troglodytes, and that may be best to face in the full light of day as opposed to the shades of evening.""
Avery nods, "Then let's make our way to the constables, and see what Sir Grover can say, the inn is right across from there. Once we get the situation from Sir Grover, and secure some rooms, then up to that large chapel there to see to his leg." While still cradling his sword, he places the handles of the cart on his shoulder, lifts and begins to push it into town.
Ok let’s start off with the Constable’s Quarters and you can then decide weather you want to go to the Inn or the Church.
You all make your way the short work to the Constable’s Quarters, Avery pushing Maajid’s cart through the quiet town. Very few people walking around, even on this crisp morning. The Constable’s Quarters is a nondescript square wooden building with heavy shutters closed over the windows. The door looks stout, but stands open. No people are visible. Behind this building is another long, low structure.
Inside is a very small office with a desk and a few chairs. Behind the desk is a skinny man with combed back hair and a tight moustache. His small frame is still quite muscly as he sits at his desk with a straight back looking at the door. Two other men sit in the corner, more relaxed in their demeanour with beards and long shaggy hair. All are well armed with swords, spear, and shield.
”Yes hello, what can I do for you travellers?” The skinny man asks as you all walk in. “What brings you all to this wonderful village of Orlane?”. He is very serious in his speech, clearly not a man used to small talk.
As he pushes the cart in, does he perceive anything out of the ordinary? (Perception: 20) He is watching the towns people and their activity, how the move, how they interact with one another. With such a crisp morning, is smoke rising from chimneys, does he smell food cooking. Does he hear kids playing, does he hear the sounds of a normal town would have in the morning. He pulls up and stops in front of the office, and seeing the shutters closed, slowly shakes his head and thinks to himself-"This is not right, why would the shutters be closed tight? At least one window or two would be open for light and fresh air, not to mention if there is a situation in the area, to hear the cry for help."
Not trying to look threatening, Avery returns his sword to his carry position across his back. "Shall we help you inside, or do you wish to remain out here?" Avery asks the injured trader. He then enters and does a quick scan of the office (Perception: 10; Investigation: 8). The two other men-Avery notes their appearance concerned about the beards and shaggy hair, non-professional demeanor. He approaches Sir Grover.
Avery does a slight bow to Sir Grover, his arm facing down by his side, bent at the elbow, fist to your heart. "Hail and well met good sir, I was traveling through these parts, and having finished my time in the Bloody Fist Company, am off to seek new employment. A fellow comrade-in-arm, who is an acquaintance of yours I believe, Aurthur, asked me to check up on you and to see how you fare. I am not sure you have been made aware, but while at Hochoch the other night, a trader was set upon by Trogs and wounded. We have brought him here for healing, but as the constable, thought you should be made aware of this."
Avery - You notice that this village exhibits none of the things that you would expect on a morning such as this. You smell no food. Perhaps some smoke rising from chimneys but not as much as the weather would usually dictate. Certainly no kids playing in the street. Some out the front of their houses, but they all run inside at the sight of strangers. When you enter the room you notice all the things i described, the three men and the simple nature of the operation.
At the mention of Aurthur and the gesture with your hand, Sir Grover (the man at the table) looks confused at first, then his eyes widen just slightly. "Ah yes, Aurthur. I did tell the man not to worry about me, but i suppose he was never a good listener. It is good to meet another member of the company." He smiles at you, although perhaps it comes off slightly colder than he intended. "You should let him know that i am fine, and that my charge is still well, nothing to worry about." The two other men look at him inquisitively, and he makes a gesture for them to stay seated. "Troglodytes you say? that is curious indeed, although perhaps not completely so. The Rushmoors breed many strange creatures that find their way to Orlane. I will attempt to track the creatures and find their nest, put an end to them, that will do it. Maybe in a day or two, yes." He goes to write a note but becomes slightly distracted by his own words, looks out the window briefly, then snaps back to the conversation. "If your friend is in need of healing, i would suggest he go to the Temple of Merikka up on the hill. I'm sure the the cleric Misha will gladly see to his wounds." He smiles at the thought of the priestess. "After that i suggest you all take in the sights of Orlane for the day, such as they are. This is of course a small village with little to offer tourists. I imagine you'll want to continue on after that, to Keoland or Gran March or wherever." He looks back at his notes, the conversation seemingly over in his mind.
Theldrin - Maajid seems to be in no mood to go into the constable's quarters. Slightly annoyed perhaps that he isn't being taken straight to the Temple. The two of you sit out the front chatting about whatever you like.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Theldrin keeps a watchul eye out as he makes small talk with Maajid. "So...where do you hail from if I may ask? I spent some years in Ekbir studying, loved it there."
Theldrin - Maajid looks inquisitive at the mentioning of Ekbir. "Ahh, i thought i heard a tinge of accent in your voice. Yes, Ekbir, quite the jewell isn't it. The cities this side of the Barrier Peaks can be so brutalist no? Ekbir is beautiful. Although i feel nothing is beautiful as my Lopolla, the perfect marriage between East and West i must say, although i am quite biased i must say." As he prattles on he makes a gesture to you, holding his hand in front of his stomach and pointing his last two digits straight out. You only see it for a second before his hand goes back to gesticulating in a grand manner.
As Maajid is talking two people walk past, a man and a woman, both young and handsome. They carry bags with new clothes and bedding, heading north. They smile at the two of you politely, yet perhaps slightly suspiciously. "Well met travellers. Business with the constable is it? Seems quite a few new guards are coming to town. Hopefully you all will be able to do something about the strangeness. People are quite strange here you know." They seem very earnest in their mannerisms, glad just to be talking to someone, it seems.
(Assuming Theldrin doesn't recognize this gesture, or should I make a skill check?)
"Ah yes, I've always heard good things about Lopolla." Theldrin smiles. To the newcomers he says, "Well met indeed... good day to you both. It is true, we have heard strange tidings as of late, can you tell us any news?"
Theldrin - The woman responds, "News?To be honest, not really. We are both new in town as well, only moved here a year ago. I run the weavers down the road a little, my husband here helps me, Julienne and Darnell." They both shake your hands. "We haven't really gotten to know anyone really. People seem to buy our wares and want nothing else to do with us. We came here to start a life together but it has turned out to be very lonely." They seem sad, but there is still the spark and hope of youth about them. They go to continue heading north.
Having been in the village a little while and hearing these two's story. Maajid seems to be understanding now that there may be something up in this village. He seems more anxious now to get to the church and get out of this place.
Three as I stayed with Maajid as well. Trying to quench his annoyance, not quite understanding myself why his wounds were not a priority. “Ah Maajid they will be brief and then we will escort you to the temple.”
"I think we should all stay together as a group," Theldrin says with a thoughtful frown as he rubs his beard. "Checking in with the constable seems wise, and yes, we should see Maajid to the temple."
He continues as he scans the area ahead to see if he spots anything of interest, "Perhaps Sir Grover could suggest a place for us to stay the night."
Perception: 16
Xanrym says, "Well, we should probably find a place to stay so that we have a 'base' in the town and a place to leave any gear that you wouldn't want to carry all over town, like that saddle and barding. But then I agree, the farmer whom we met at the Inn last night seemed to have confidence in Sir Grover still. I'd like to hear from the constable first to learn what he has been seeing in Orlane.'"
Xanrym nods and says, "I'd like to go with you to the temple." He smiles at Maajid as he continues, "I feel bad that I wasn't able to heal your leg completely, Maajid, and I hope that the priests there can help."
Xanrym asks the group whether they're going to split up: "Should we all go together, Avery? We'll walk right past that Inn, so we could secure rooms before we go to the temple. Or do you want to secure rooms at the inn while Lldryk and I--and anyone else who wants to come--take Maajid to the temple, and then we can all go to over to talk to Sir Grover together after lunch?"
"Oh!", Xanrym sounds surprised, "Do you think that even the Inn isn't safe?" He seems to have trouble imagining an inn that would actually be dangerous in a little town like this. "Yes, I suppose we could talk to Sir Grover first. Then get rooms at the inn and have lunch before we head up to the temple this evening. As long as you're OK waiting a little longer, Maajid? Talking to some people would also give us a chance to learn whether any local customs about requesting aid at this temple."
Theldrin's frown deepens and he answers slowly, "Well... we just don't know and considering what we've heard... yest it seems that checking with someone here who knows the situation might be the best place to start?"
Theldrin - There isn’t a lot of activity in the village. You see that in a couple of the farms there are some kids playing in the front yards, although they all go inside when they see strangers walking by. The inn that Lldryk nodded at had a large statue of some grain, coated in flaking cheap gold paint.
So just so I have the plan straight, your all staying together.
Morning - Constable’s Quarters to meet Sir Grover
Afternoon - Golden Grain Inn to book a room
Evening - Temple of Merikka to see to Majiid’s leg.
Ill be a couple hours before I can do the next post. If no one says anything until then I’ll just assume that’s the plan.
Xanrym may be able to command a room and be persuasive when the need arises (as seen during and after the troglodyte attack), but he's fundamentally a consensus builder. He agrees with accomplishing at least those three objectives today, and he thinks it's a good idea for the group to stick together at least until they hear what Sir Grover has to say.
After that, it might make sense to split into two groups (Inn and Temple). That way, they might have time to visit Alan Clayborn's farm this evening. But it'll really depend on what they hear from Sir Grover and how that impacts their assessment of the danger.
Lldryk is wondering if waiting to have Majiid's leg attended to and evening travel in a town rumored to be dangerous in an unknown way is the wisest choice. "Perhaps it would be in Majiid's best interest to get to the temple sooner rather than later. We should also maybe reconsider late day travel in this town. We have heard the rumors that it is dangerous in an unknown manner and we have witnessed for ourselves the Troglodytes, and that may be best to face in the full light of day as opposed to the shades of evening.""
Avery nods, "Then let's make our way to the constables, and see what Sir Grover can say, the inn is right across from there. Once we get the situation from Sir Grover, and secure some rooms, then up to that large chapel there to see to his leg." While still cradling his sword, he places the handles of the cart on his shoulder, lifts and begins to push it into town.
Ok let’s start off with the Constable’s Quarters and you can then decide weather you want to go to the Inn or the Church.
You all make your way the short work to the Constable’s Quarters, Avery pushing Maajid’s cart through the quiet town. Very few people walking around, even on this crisp morning. The Constable’s Quarters is a nondescript square wooden building with heavy shutters closed over the windows. The door looks stout, but stands open. No people are visible. Behind this building is another long, low structure.
Inside is a very small office with a desk and a few chairs. Behind the desk is a skinny man with combed back hair and a tight moustache. His small frame is still quite muscly as he sits at his desk with a straight back looking at the door. Two other men sit in the corner, more relaxed in their demeanour with beards and long shaggy hair. All are well armed with swords, spear, and shield.
”Yes hello, what can I do for you travellers?” The skinny man asks as you all walk in. “What brings you all to this wonderful village of Orlane?”. He is very serious in his speech, clearly not a man used to small talk.
Xanrym follows the others into the room. Since Sir Grover is Avery's friend-of-a-friend, he looks to Avery and waits for him to respond.
As he pushes the cart in, does he perceive anything out of the ordinary? (Perception: 20) He is watching the towns people and their activity, how the move, how they interact with one another. With such a crisp morning, is smoke rising from chimneys, does he smell food cooking. Does he hear kids playing, does he hear the sounds of a normal town would have in the morning. He pulls up and stops in front of the office, and seeing the shutters closed, slowly shakes his head and thinks to himself-"This is not right, why would the shutters be closed tight? At least one window or two would be open for light and fresh air, not to mention if there is a situation in the area, to hear the cry for help."
Not trying to look threatening, Avery returns his sword to his carry position across his back. "Shall we help you inside, or do you wish to remain out here?" Avery asks the injured trader. He then enters and does a quick scan of the office (Perception: 10; Investigation: 8). The two other men-Avery notes their appearance concerned about the beards and shaggy hair, non-professional demeanor. He approaches Sir Grover.
Avery does a slight bow to Sir Grover, his arm facing down by his side, bent at the elbow, fist to your heart. "Hail and well met good sir, I was traveling through these parts, and having finished my time in the Bloody Fist Company, am off to seek new employment. A fellow comrade-in-arm, who is an acquaintance of yours I believe, Aurthur, asked me to check up on you and to see how you fare. I am not sure you have been made aware, but while at Hochoch the other night, a trader was set upon by Trogs and wounded. We have brought him here for healing, but as the constable, thought you should be made aware of this."
Liarin has been following the group, nodding her approval of the plan so far.
Coriana - Company of the Grey Chain
Wagner - Dragon Heist: Bards.
DM - The Old Keep
Theldrin will follow Avery into the office, unless Majiid wants to remain outside in which case he will stay with him.
Avery - You notice that this village exhibits none of the things that you would expect on a morning such as this. You smell no food. Perhaps some smoke rising from chimneys but not as much as the weather would usually dictate. Certainly no kids playing in the street. Some out the front of their houses, but they all run inside at the sight of strangers. When you enter the room you notice all the things i described, the three men and the simple nature of the operation.
At the mention of Aurthur and the gesture with your hand, Sir Grover (the man at the table) looks confused at first, then his eyes widen just slightly. "Ah yes, Aurthur. I did tell the man not to worry about me, but i suppose he was never a good listener. It is good to meet another member of the company." He smiles at you, although perhaps it comes off slightly colder than he intended. "You should let him know that i am fine, and that my charge is still well, nothing to worry about." The two other men look at him inquisitively, and he makes a gesture for them to stay seated. "Troglodytes you say? that is curious indeed, although perhaps not completely so. The Rushmoors breed many strange creatures that find their way to Orlane. I will attempt to track the creatures and find their nest, put an end to them, that will do it. Maybe in a day or two, yes." He goes to write a note but becomes slightly distracted by his own words, looks out the window briefly, then snaps back to the conversation. "If your friend is in need of healing, i would suggest he go to the Temple of Merikka up on the hill. I'm sure the the cleric Misha will gladly see to his wounds." He smiles at the thought of the priestess. "After that i suggest you all take in the sights of Orlane for the day, such as they are. This is of course a small village with little to offer tourists. I imagine you'll want to continue on after that, to Keoland or Gran March or wherever." He looks back at his notes, the conversation seemingly over in his mind.
Theldrin - Maajid seems to be in no mood to go into the constable's quarters. Slightly annoyed perhaps that he isn't being taken straight to the Temple. The two of you sit out the front chatting about whatever you like.
Theldrin keeps a watchul eye out as he makes small talk with Maajid. "So...where do you hail from if I may ask? I spent some years in Ekbir studying, loved it there."
Perception: 7
Theldrin - Maajid looks inquisitive at the mentioning of Ekbir. "Ahh, i thought i heard a tinge of accent in your voice. Yes, Ekbir, quite the jewell isn't it. The cities this side of the Barrier Peaks can be so brutalist no? Ekbir is beautiful. Although i feel nothing is beautiful as my Lopolla, the perfect marriage between East and West i must say, although i am quite biased i must say." As he prattles on he makes a gesture to you, holding his hand in front of his stomach and pointing his last two digits straight out. You only see it for a second before his hand goes back to gesticulating in a grand manner.
As Maajid is talking two people walk past, a man and a woman, both young and handsome. They carry bags with new clothes and bedding, heading north. They smile at the two of you politely, yet perhaps slightly suspiciously. "Well met travellers. Business with the constable is it? Seems quite a few new guards are coming to town. Hopefully you all will be able to do something about the strangeness. People are quite strange here you know." They seem very earnest in their mannerisms, glad just to be talking to someone, it seems.
(Assuming Theldrin doesn't recognize this gesture, or should I make a skill check?)
"Ah yes, I've always heard good things about Lopolla." Theldrin smiles. To the newcomers he says, "Well met indeed... good day to you both. It is true, we have heard strange tidings as of late, can you tell us any news?"
Theldrin - The woman responds, "News? To be honest, not really. We are both new in town as well, only moved here a year ago. I run the weavers down the road a little, my husband here helps me, Julienne and Darnell." They both shake your hands. "We haven't really gotten to know anyone really. People seem to buy our wares and want nothing else to do with us. We came here to start a life together but it has turned out to be very lonely." They seem sad, but there is still the spark and hope of youth about them. They go to continue heading north.
Having been in the village a little while and hearing these two's story. Maajid seems to be understanding now that there may be something up in this village. He seems more anxious now to get to the church and get out of this place.
Three as I stayed with Maajid as well. Trying to quench his annoyance, not quite understanding myself why his wounds were not a priority. “Ah Maajid they will be brief and then we will escort you to the temple.”
Maajid thanks you both for staying with him, and is calmed by the reassurance.