"Very well," Denae affirms as she shifts her longbow on her shoulder and issues a command: "Imp, lead the way." Momentarilly falling back on his familiar-like loyalty, Pipyap begins stepping toward CRAP's next destination without a grunt or complaint. Denae looks at Utar and nods: "I'll lead the way once we find the trail. I'll keep close to the imp for now."
Since the group walked all the way to Halvin's cabin, the trek to the trail leading to Serelis's place takes them back toward Kabel's Hill, at least partially. Not only that, but it is not necessarily a short distance either. There is plenty of time during the trek for some preparation, planning, and even idle talk should the mood allow for it. Denae shows an initial preference for recapping what you have learned about Serelis so far: "So, this Serelis is a half-elf ranger who acts as an occasional go-between for the locals and the elves in the Quivering Forest. The folk of Kabel's Hill, said that there is a path heading into the woods by way of Serelis's cabin, and know where to find it. Luckily, so does the imp. That said, we have been told that no one actually goes to the cabin since it is in the woods, so it's considered off limits. This Serelis simply appears from time to time to check on everyone and see if they need anything. Let us hope he performs such a service out of the goodness of his heart."
At another moment during the walk, Denae finally asks a question that has been in her mind for some time: "Imp, what do you carry in that bloody sack? The obvious answer is cow bits, but I've waited long enough and would rather know the answer than assume it. Talk." Pipyap seems quite proud of his belongings in all fairness, and does not hesitate in answering: "Cow bits is correct, my latest hunt! I also have my weapon, a folding knife! I have also claimed a hoard of small trinkets, but they are mine, stay away!"Denae seems a bit bothered by the last bit: "What are these trinkets?" Pipyap does not relent: "What they are... well, MINE, that's what they are. MINE!" Denae looks at the others, wondering if they are as uncomfortable with this secrecy as she is.
(OOC: Feel free to insert here any RPing you's like; there is plenty of time for it during the walk.)
Eventually, once CRAP is much closer to Kabel's Hill, Pipyap begins to turn and walk ever closer to the edge of the forest. The group is close enough to the town now that it would be hard to avoid some townsfolk's eyes. Noticing that CRAP is approaching the forest, some passing villagers meet your gaze with gasps of shock and alarm. The bravest among them vocalizes a warning: "Look what happened to Rerk!" If you look around for Pipyap around the this time, you notice that he has successfully disappeared from sight, so not to be seen by the passing villagers following Utar's earlier warning. Even though you can't see him, as you get even closer to the trees, you hear Pipyap's voice pointing out a small dirt patch at the treeline. He says: "That's the way."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"No one is saying they're going to take your, uh, trinkets, Pipyap. But a bloody sack does give off a less than wholesome vibe. Maybe it might with upgrading it something, I don't know, less horrendous?"
Changing tack away from how Pipyap might better present itself, the half-orc cleric attempts to sing the conversation back into what exactly is in the bloody sack.
"Maybe you could let us know about what you like in a trinket, or don't like. Just, you know, to make conversation while we travel."
"Hmm..." The imp relents after Utar tries a softer approach. "Give me one of your pouches then. I'll trade my bloody sack for it. Deal?" While Utar considers the offer, Pipyap indulges his follow-up comment. "I likes the shiny, I likes the fancy, I likes the sharp, I likes the bloody, I likes the bony. I gots all of which in the sack. And its all mine. No takes'em!"
NEAR THE TRAIL ENTRANCE
Neya heightens her senses near the entrance to the path. She sees no additional eyes on the group. Instead, she notices that the path itself is little more than an animal run, narrow and twisting through the forest.
With his thoughts primarily occupied processing the most recent revelations during the journey, the back and forth between the imp and Denae, while of idle curiosity for Biscuit, mostly falls on deaf ears where it concerns Doozey himself. Only the yelling really draws any of his attention along with mild ire. But with the others taking point in handling 'that' situation, Doozey simply shook his head and washed his hands of it. If the imp and his "trinkets" became a problem, it could be dealt with later and swiftly enough... or so was the stoutling's last thoughts on the matter before becoming absorbed once again in his own concerns.
Near the Trail Entrance:
"Aye! We're well aware, thank ya very much. But we got promises to keep, and fences to maybe mend. So just take care of Rerk, and make sure no one else enters the forest after us until we've returned!" Doozey called back, but would hardly wait to see how his words would be taken before turning to the group. "We got our trail, now let's hurry on for any brave ones show up to try and stop us."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
(@MB: Let me know how you want to resolve the "during the trek" bit.)
NEAR THE TRAIL ENTRANCE
The straggling villagers murmur and grunt to themselves in response to Doozey's comments. They continue grumbling on their way back to town, where, no doubt, they will engage in some unhealthy village gossip.
Once the area is clear, Denae let's Pipyap know that he is welcome to show his face again, but the imp does not seem ready: "I'll stay invisible, thank you very much. All you have to do is follow the trail. I'll be right behind you."Denae frowns, clearly mistrusting the imp's claim. "You better follow, imp, or I'll find you on my way out and gut you." Pipyap does not audibly responds to the threat apart from blowing raspberries.
Keeping to her word, Denae leads the group into the forest by way of the animal run leading toward Serelis's home.
(OOC: Assuming you are all ready to go...)
The path is narrow and twists through the forest. As you step into the dense forest, the air thickens with the scent of earth and foliage. Sunlight trickles through the canopy above, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor, but even then the sudden loss of daylight makes for a stark difference from just a moment ago. Moss-clad trees tower overhead, their branches reaching out like the arms of ancient guardians. You follow the path for a mile or so before reaching your destination.
The narrow, twisting path opens at last into a small glade, where a picturesque babbling stream tumbles past a cabin built of natural timbers and a sod roof. The first sign of occupancy is the small garden along one side of the cabin, with a number of herbs and vegetables growing in neat rows watched over by a scarecrow. The idyllic garden is being tended to by a male half-elf. Noticing your approach he stops working and props his elbow on the end of the shovel he holds. "I take it that they haven't returned yet?" he says with a note of concern in his voice.
Prompted by Pipyap, Utar pats his pouches. Coins... Spell components... His fingers then drift across an empty pouch which previously held his personal supply of chamomile tea. Taking the pouch in his hands, he opens it and inhales the gentle, floral smell one more time, before handing it out for the imp to take. "Do you think it would be large enough for your trinkets and folding knife?"
At the hut:
Utar raises a hand in greeting to who he assumes is Serelis. "One of them was returned but umm not in great condition. He's currently recoving from his wounds but I'm afraid he has a new raft of challenges to overcome. We were hoping we could count on your help to return the others safely?"
"-and it doesn't have to be the too direct kind, if there's any concern of winding up the wrong fey or elven kin over this whole mess."Doozey further assured, though only after spending a lengthy moment studying the elf and sniffing at the air in some vain attempt to determine no fey/hag trickery was a foot. For even if doubtless Serelis had his own means of warding off such dangers after living so closely, the stoutling wasn't one to dismiss the possibility. "We'd, eh.... We'd also wish to know if a halfling by the name of Halvin came by as well. Would be close to a month ago by now I think, but ya don't strike me as the type to receive a lot of visitors. So, I'd imagine such a meeting would stand out quite a bit, would'n ya say?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Pipyap accepts the pouch offered by Utar. and begins to transfers contents from his bloody sack. It is clear not all of them will fit, so the imp chooses to keep his sack filled with cow bits while transferring the less organic trinkets to the leather pouch. The cleric's (absurd passive perception) eyes can't help but linger and study the imp's belongings. In addition to various coins (amounting to 10gp), Pipyap owns a bone comb (5gp) and a scroll filled with arcane script.
AT SERELIS'S CABIN
Utar is the first to introduce himself to the the third ranger in this encounter. Neya and Doozey follow up with questions and comments while Serelis absorbs it all in silence for a bit, much like the halfling does simultaneously. The male half-elf soon speaks again: "It seems like you come to me with the villagers interest in mind, and that you know part of the story already. You have also already entered the forest, so I gather that there is little I can say to convince you to go back the way you came. So, let me show you some respect by not wasting your time. I'll tell you what you want to know." Serelis puts down his gardening utensils, dropping his hoe where he stands, before ushering you all into his cabin. "Best if we talk inside."
Denae hesitates for a second, whispering a question to the group: "Something about fey-descendants inviting us into their home within a magical forest doesn't seem right? Or was that supposed to be a good omen? I should know but..." She shrugs.
(@Ori: Give me a perception check concerning your sniffing about. I'll say that Hunter's Bane applies even if it wouldn't RAW. @MB & @Drache: You can roll insight checks.)
Danae's warning echoes in his ears but surely refusing an offer of hospitality would be an affront too and just as likely to offend. Besides, it sounds like they need Serelis' help, and trying to secure it seems like the best play. The half-orc moves to enter the half-elf's cabin.
Doozey side-eyes Denae with slyly smirks, but haphazardly shields his mouth from Serelis as he whispers, "It's typically a good omen, so long as ya observe some basic rules of etiquette, such as avoiding violence within and being generally polite."His eyes briefly flickers back to Serelis before he adds, "Though it's good to be mindful of the same of who's doing the inviting, and to be very mindful of their wording."With that said, Doozey moves to catch up to Biscuit, as the mastiff had all to eagerly took Serelis invite at face value.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Serelis seems genuinely disappointed to hear that the villagers haven't returned, save the one. He is also quite taken aback when you mention Rerk's fate, even if the details have not been shared with him. The invitation into the home sounds similarly genuine.
@Doozey:
You can smell fey trickery in the air and, more specifically, as your smelling senses zero in on the smell even further, you recognize it as the stench of a green hag. It is hard to pinpoint where exactly the smell is coming from or when did it start emanating, but you suspect it is not coming from Serelis himself.
"You know best," Denae says to CRAP in general and follows the group inside. You also notice that Pipyap has not made a squeak, making it hard to know if the invisible imp is following the group into the cabin, or even if he has made it to the clearing at all.
Once within the cabin, Serelis gestures to empty chairs around a small table or other sitting apparatus nearby as he doesn't seem to have exactly five chairs available. The ranger then offers each of you a glass of homemade hard cider, claiming that it's "his life's work." Once settled, he seems ready to summarize his earlier encounter with the departing villagers, but not before making sure you are well serviced by his host duties. "The sitting is tight and the cider simple, but please enjoy."
Utar waits for the others and their host to sit before leaning against the sturdiest piece of furniture he can. Taking the glass of cider, he takes a small sip. The drink is neither too sweet nor too dry and is refreshing after the walk. Taking a second sip, Utar notices that it seems to have some other flavours mingling with the apple too. "This is delicious, your time and effort were well spent. And thank you for inviting us into your lovely home, although, obviously I wish we were here under different circumstances."
Having some self-assurance of Serelis' motives, Neya accepts his invitation and has some cider, herself.
After taking a sip, she coughs a bit due to the alcohol. She the speaks, "It's hard to hide one of the reasons why we're here. Has there been a reaction to Halvin's intrusion?"
For all of his earlier bravado, coached though it was with a hint of caution (mostly for Denae's benefit), no trace of it's left by the time the party is inside the building. Rather Doozey almost immediately became so distracted trying to examine the interior, occasionally sniffing at the air here and there, that by appearances it seemed he missed the gesture from Serelis. The same can't be said of Biscuit however, as he more than happily hops into one of the remaining chairs and looked on expectantly at the ranger with tail wagging happily in anticipation!
"Hm? Oh, uhm, the offer is appreciated kind... sir. But, you know us halflings well enough, I'm sure. If I start getting too comfortable, nothing save the sharing of stories will get done anytime soon." He says when it came around to his turn being offered some cider, before giving an apologetic bow. Afterwards, he returned to his idle look about without being too intrusive, and ultimately found himself only speaking up again (aside from following-up any reaction to his refusal of drink and a seat) only after Neya was answered. "And, uh, pardon my boldness in further inquiry, but... aside from Halvin and maybe the other villagers, eh... Have you entertained other guests recently?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"A touch of coriander," Serelis responds to Utar's nonverbal reaction to the cider and Neya's cough. He is proud of that little detail in his recipe and eager to share. He nods in agreement with Utar's statement, and then turns to Neya: "Outwardly, no, or at least not yet, but the elves of Greenhall have become even more suspicious and secluded than before." Noticing Biscuit then, the host serves some cider in a bowl to the mastiff if permission is given to do so. Serelis does not take offense to Doozey's refusal.
"At he cabin?" Serelis replies to Doozey's question. "No, but I happened to be in town about two tendays ago. The residents of Kabel's Hill asked me then to lead a small group into the Quivering Forest to treat with the elves of Greenhall. I told them that the elves were the least of my concern, but they wouldn't hear it. I cautioned them against their voyage, insisting that the fey would react poorly to their intrusion. This was also met with disregard. Then, a few days later, six villagers knocked on my door. I did what I could for them. I hesitantly outfitted the six villagers with equipment more suitable than the rake and shovels they were armed with. Each was given a sword, a good cloak, a tenday's worth of rations, and the warning that their plans would result in nothing but tragedy. As unsurprising as it was, it saddens me. And that, well, is the story... at least the part I am privy to. To the best of my knowledge, Halvin did not seek me. I heard of his suspected intrusion into the forest from the villagers."
Noticing that the silence that follows lingers in the air a bit awkwardly, Denae takes the initiative to ask the next question: "I noticed your summary of events does not mention the local hag, Jeny Greenteeth. We believe Halvin may have gone to her residence for assistance. The fact he did not come here makes that theory even more plausible in my eyes."
Serelis's facial expression is one of pain and disappointment. "Perhaps he favored her instead of me then. The villagers were wrong in venturing into the forest, but Halvin made the larger mistake if he indeed paid Jeny Greenteeth a visit. I can only hope the other six villagers did not make the same mistake. That said, apart from your theory, I have no reason to believe that Jeny Greenteeth has anything to do with the missing villagers, and would rather not linger on the subject."
Continuing to drink the cider, Utar wonders how the coriander was imparted to the beverage. Seed most likely, but maybe stem or root too. Leaves maybe not but an outside chance. He would have to ask, but maybe later.
"Actually we believe that at least one of the missing villagers met with Jeny Greenteeth." Utar recounts Rerk's injuries and his return to the village. "He was returned with a note and the sigil of Jeny Greenteeth."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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"Very well," Denae affirms as she shifts her longbow on her shoulder and issues a command: "Imp, lead the way." Momentarilly falling back on his familiar-like loyalty, Pipyap begins stepping toward CRAP's next destination without a grunt or complaint. Denae looks at Utar and nods: "I'll lead the way once we find the trail. I'll keep close to the imp for now."
Since the group walked all the way to Halvin's cabin, the trek to the trail leading to Serelis's place takes them back toward Kabel's Hill, at least partially. Not only that, but it is not necessarily a short distance either. There is plenty of time during the trek for some preparation, planning, and even idle talk should the mood allow for it. Denae shows an initial preference for recapping what you have learned about Serelis so far: "So, this Serelis is a half-elf ranger who acts as an occasional go-between for the locals and the elves in the Quivering Forest. The folk of Kabel's Hill, said that there is a path heading into the woods by way of Serelis's cabin, and know where to find it. Luckily, so does the imp. That said, we have been told that no one actually goes to the cabin since it is in the woods, so it's considered off limits. This Serelis simply appears from time to time to check on everyone and see if they need anything. Let us hope he performs such a service out of the goodness of his heart."
At another moment during the walk, Denae finally asks a question that has been in her mind for some time: "Imp, what do you carry in that bloody sack? The obvious answer is cow bits, but I've waited long enough and would rather know the answer than assume it. Talk." Pipyap seems quite proud of his belongings in all fairness, and does not hesitate in answering: "Cow bits is correct, my latest hunt! I also have my weapon, a folding knife! I have also claimed a hoard of small trinkets, but they are mine, stay away!" Denae seems a bit bothered by the last bit: "What are these trinkets?" Pipyap does not relent: "What they are... well, MINE, that's what they are. MINE!" Denae looks at the others, wondering if they are as uncomfortable with this secrecy as she is.
(OOC: Feel free to insert here any RPing you's like; there is plenty of time for it during the walk.)
Eventually, once CRAP is much closer to Kabel's Hill, Pipyap begins to turn and walk ever closer to the edge of the forest. The group is close enough to the town now that it would be hard to avoid some townsfolk's eyes. Noticing that CRAP is approaching the forest, some passing villagers meet your gaze with gasps of shock and alarm. The bravest among them vocalizes a warning: "Look what happened to Rerk!" If you look around for Pipyap around the this time, you notice that he has successfully disappeared from sight, so not to be seen by the passing villagers following Utar's earlier warning. Even though you can't see him, as you get even closer to the trees, you hear Pipyap's voice pointing out a small dirt patch at the treeline. He says: "That's the way."
"No one is saying they're going to take your, uh, trinkets, Pipyap. But a bloody sack does give off a less than wholesome vibe. Maybe it might with upgrading it something, I don't know, less horrendous?"
Changing tack away from how Pipyap might better present itself, the half-orc cleric attempts to sing the conversation back into what exactly is in the bloody sack.
"Maybe you could let us know about what you like in a trinket, or don't like. Just, you know, to make conversation while we travel."
Persuasion - 3
"Regardless of Serelis' frequent trips from and to the forest, we better keep our head on a swivel."
Perception: 21
Extended Signature
DURING THE TREK
"Hmm..." The imp relents after Utar tries a softer approach. "Give me one of your pouches then. I'll trade my bloody sack for it. Deal?" While Utar considers the offer, Pipyap indulges his follow-up comment. "I likes the shiny, I likes the fancy, I likes the sharp, I likes the bloody, I likes the bony. I gots all of which in the sack. And its all mine. No takes'em!"
NEAR THE TRAIL ENTRANCE
Neya heightens her senses near the entrance to the path. She sees no additional eyes on the group. Instead, she notices that the path itself is little more than an animal run, narrow and twisting through the forest.
During the Trek:
With his thoughts primarily occupied processing the most recent revelations during the journey, the back and forth between the imp and Denae, while of idle curiosity for Biscuit, mostly falls on deaf ears where it concerns Doozey himself. Only the yelling really draws any of his attention along with mild ire. But with the others taking point in handling 'that' situation, Doozey simply shook his head and washed his hands of it. If the imp and his "trinkets" became a problem, it could be dealt with later and swiftly enough... or so was the stoutling's last thoughts on the matter before becoming absorbed once again in his own concerns.
Near the Trail Entrance:
"Aye! We're well aware, thank ya very much. But we got promises to keep, and fences to maybe mend. So just take care of Rerk, and make sure no one else enters the forest after us until we've returned!" Doozey called back, but would hardly wait to see how his words would be taken before turning to the group. "We got our trail, now let's hurry on for any brave ones show up to try and stop us."
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
(@MB: Let me know how you want to resolve the "during the trek" bit.)
NEAR THE TRAIL ENTRANCE
The straggling villagers murmur and grunt to themselves in response to Doozey's comments. They continue grumbling on their way back to town, where, no doubt, they will engage in some unhealthy village gossip.
Once the area is clear, Denae let's Pipyap know that he is welcome to show his face again, but the imp does not seem ready: "I'll stay invisible, thank you very much. All you have to do is follow the trail. I'll be right behind you." Denae frowns, clearly mistrusting the imp's claim. "You better follow, imp, or I'll find you on my way out and gut you." Pipyap does not audibly responds to the threat apart from blowing raspberries.
Keeping to her word, Denae leads the group into the forest by way of the animal run leading toward Serelis's home.
(OOC: Assuming you are all ready to go...)
The path is narrow and twists through the forest. As you step into the dense forest, the air thickens with the scent of earth and foliage. Sunlight trickles through the canopy above, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor, but even then the sudden loss of daylight makes for a stark difference from just a moment ago. Moss-clad trees tower overhead, their branches reaching out like the arms of ancient guardians. You follow the path for a mile or so before reaching your destination.
The narrow, twisting path opens at last into a small glade, where a picturesque babbling stream tumbles past a cabin built of natural timbers and a sod roof. The first sign of occupancy is the small garden along one side of the cabin, with a number of herbs and vegetables growing in neat rows watched over by a scarecrow. The idyllic garden is being tended to by a male half-elf. Noticing your approach he stops working and props his elbow on the end of the shovel he holds. "I take it that they haven't returned yet?" he says with a note of concern in his voice.
During the trek:
Prompted by Pipyap, Utar pats his pouches. Coins... Spell components... His fingers then drift across an empty pouch which previously held his personal supply of chamomile tea. Taking the pouch in his hands, he opens it and inhales the gentle, floral smell one more time, before handing it out for the imp to take. "Do you think it would be large enough for your trinkets and folding knife?"
At the hut:
Utar raises a hand in greeting to who he assumes is Serelis. "One of them was returned but umm not in great condition. He's currently recoving from his wounds but I'm afraid he has a new raft of challenges to overcome. We were hoping we could count on your help to return the others safely?"
“I can only assume they had come by for some form aid?”
Extended Signature
"-and it doesn't have to be the too direct kind, if there's any concern of winding up the wrong fey or elven kin over this whole mess." Doozey further assured, though only after spending a lengthy moment studying the elf and sniffing at the air in some vain attempt to determine no fey/hag trickery was a foot. For even if doubtless Serelis had his own means of warding off such dangers after living so closely, the stoutling wasn't one to dismiss the possibility. "We'd, eh.... We'd also wish to know if a halfling by the name of Halvin came by as well. Would be close to a month ago by now I think, but ya don't strike me as the type to receive a lot of visitors. So, I'd imagine such a meeting would stand out quite a bit, would'n ya say?"
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
DURING THE TREK
Pipyap accepts the pouch offered by Utar. and begins to transfers contents from his bloody sack. It is clear not all of them will fit, so the imp chooses to keep his sack filled with cow bits while transferring the less organic trinkets to the leather pouch. The cleric's (absurd passive perception) eyes can't help but linger and study the imp's belongings. In addition to various coins (amounting to 10gp), Pipyap owns a bone comb (5gp) and a scroll filled with arcane script.
AT SERELIS'S CABIN
Utar is the first to introduce himself to the the third ranger in this encounter. Neya and Doozey follow up with questions and comments while Serelis absorbs it all in silence for a bit, much like the halfling does simultaneously. The male half-elf soon speaks again: "It seems like you come to me with the villagers interest in mind, and that you know part of the story already. You have also already entered the forest, so I gather that there is little I can say to convince you to go back the way you came. So, let me show you some respect by not wasting your time. I'll tell you what you want to know." Serelis puts down his gardening utensils, dropping his hoe where he stands, before ushering you all into his cabin. "Best if we talk inside."
Denae hesitates for a second, whispering a question to the group: "Something about fey-descendants inviting us into their home within a magical forest doesn't seem right? Or was that supposed to be a good omen? I should know but..." She shrugs.
(@Ori: Give me a perception check concerning your sniffing about. I'll say that Hunter's Bane applies even if it wouldn't RAW. @MB & @Drache: You can roll insight checks.)
Danae's warning echoes in his ears but surely refusing an offer of hospitality would be an affront too and just as likely to offend. Besides, it sounds like they need Serelis' help, and trying to secure it seems like the best play. The half-orc moves to enter the half-elf's cabin.
Insight - 29
Insight: 8
Extended Signature
-Perception: 29.
Doozey side-eyes Denae with slyly smirks, but haphazardly shields his mouth from Serelis as he whispers, "It's typically a good omen, so long as ya observe some basic rules of etiquette, such as avoiding violence within and being generally polite." His eyes briefly flickers back to Serelis before he adds, "Though it's good to be mindful of the same of who's doing the inviting, and to be very mindful of their wording." With that said, Doozey moves to catch up to Biscuit, as the mastiff had all to eagerly took Serelis invite at face value.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
@Utar & @Neya:
Serelis seems genuinely disappointed to hear that the villagers haven't returned, save the one. He is also quite taken aback when you mention Rerk's fate, even if the details have not been shared with him. The invitation into the home sounds similarly genuine.
@Doozey:
You can smell fey trickery in the air and, more specifically, as your smelling senses zero in on the smell even further, you recognize it as the stench of a green hag. It is hard to pinpoint where exactly the smell is coming from or when did it start emanating, but you suspect it is not coming from Serelis himself.
"You know best," Denae says to CRAP in general and follows the group inside. You also notice that Pipyap has not made a squeak, making it hard to know if the invisible imp is following the group into the cabin, or even if he has made it to the clearing at all.
Once within the cabin, Serelis gestures to empty chairs around a small table or other sitting apparatus nearby as he doesn't seem to have exactly five chairs available. The ranger then offers each of you a glass of homemade hard cider, claiming that it's "his life's work." Once settled, he seems ready to summarize his earlier encounter with the departing villagers, but not before making sure you are well serviced by his host duties. "The sitting is tight and the cider simple, but please enjoy."
Utar waits for the others and their host to sit before leaning against the sturdiest piece of furniture he can. Taking the glass of cider, he takes a small sip. The drink is neither too sweet nor too dry and is refreshing after the walk. Taking a second sip, Utar notices that it seems to have some other flavours mingling with the apple too. "This is delicious, your time and effort were well spent. And thank you for inviting us into your lovely home, although, obviously I wish we were here under different circumstances."
Having some self-assurance of Serelis' motives, Neya accepts his invitation and has some cider, herself.
After taking a sip, she coughs a bit due to the alcohol. She the speaks, "It's hard to hide one of the reasons why we're here. Has there been a reaction to Halvin's intrusion?"
Extended Signature
For all of his earlier bravado, coached though it was with a hint of caution (mostly for Denae's benefit), no trace of it's left by the time the party is inside the building. Rather Doozey almost immediately became so distracted trying to examine the interior, occasionally sniffing at the air here and there, that by appearances it seemed he missed the gesture from Serelis. The same can't be said of Biscuit however, as he more than happily hops into one of the remaining chairs and looked on expectantly at the ranger with tail wagging happily in anticipation!
"Hm? Oh, uhm, the offer is appreciated kind... sir. But, you know us halflings well enough, I'm sure. If I start getting too comfortable, nothing save the sharing of stories will get done anytime soon." He says when it came around to his turn being offered some cider, before giving an apologetic bow. Afterwards, he returned to his idle look about without being too intrusive, and ultimately found himself only speaking up again (aside from following-up any reaction to his refusal of drink and a seat) only after Neya was answered. "And, uh, pardon my boldness in further inquiry, but... aside from Halvin and maybe the other villagers, eh... Have you entertained other guests recently?"
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"A touch of coriander," Serelis responds to Utar's nonverbal reaction to the cider and Neya's cough. He is proud of that little detail in his recipe and eager to share. He nods in agreement with Utar's statement, and then turns to Neya: "Outwardly, no, or at least not yet, but the elves of Greenhall have become even more suspicious and secluded than before." Noticing Biscuit then, the host serves some cider in a bowl to the mastiff if permission is given to do so. Serelis does not take offense to Doozey's refusal.
"At he cabin?" Serelis replies to Doozey's question. "No, but I happened to be in town about two tendays ago. The residents of Kabel's Hill asked me then to lead a small group into the Quivering Forest to treat with the elves of Greenhall. I told them that the elves were the least of my concern, but they wouldn't hear it. I cautioned them against their voyage, insisting that the fey would react poorly to their intrusion. This was also met with disregard. Then, a few days later, six villagers knocked on my door. I did what I could for them. I hesitantly outfitted the six villagers with equipment more suitable than the rake and shovels they were armed with. Each was given a sword, a good cloak, a tenday's worth of rations, and the warning that their plans would result in nothing but tragedy. As unsurprising as it was, it saddens me. And that, well, is the story... at least the part I am privy to. To the best of my knowledge, Halvin did not seek me. I heard of his suspected intrusion into the forest from the villagers."
Noticing that the silence that follows lingers in the air a bit awkwardly, Denae takes the initiative to ask the next question: "I noticed your summary of events does not mention the local hag, Jeny Greenteeth. We believe Halvin may have gone to her residence for assistance. The fact he did not come here makes that theory even more plausible in my eyes."
Serelis's facial expression is one of pain and disappointment. "Perhaps he favored her instead of me then. The villagers were wrong in venturing into the forest, but Halvin made the larger mistake if he indeed paid Jeny Greenteeth a visit. I can only hope the other six villagers did not make the same mistake. That said, apart from your theory, I have no reason to believe that Jeny Greenteeth has anything to do with the missing villagers, and would rather not linger on the subject."
Continuing to drink the cider, Utar wonders how the coriander was imparted to the beverage. Seed most likely, but maybe stem or root too. Leaves maybe not but an outside chance. He would have to ask, but maybe later.
"Actually we believe that at least one of the missing villagers met with Jeny Greenteeth." Utar recounts Rerk's injuries and his return to the village. "He was returned with a note and the sigil of Jeny Greenteeth."