Heading down the street with the other two “Straight up we’re being sneaky, this group thinks we’re all at the party, hoping no one comes around looking for anything, we should be able to get some info easier because they are more relaxed” Merkas says as he takes the kerchief and tucks it in between items that are more likely to rattle or clink. (Nat-1 Stealth total 7 this is going to be fun!) Stopping and ducking into the shadow of a building as he hears another set of footsteps approaching. “Hastos, glad you could join us, nice to see the advances of another woman hasn’t completely fogged your focus”
Sera spotted Hastos approaching at a run, his deer leather vest tugged over his shoulders in haste—clearly, he hadn’t had time to don his beloved armor. She gave him a warm smile as he reached them.
“From party to graveyard in a heartbeat,” she said softly, amused. Then, with a small chuckle, she offered him her shield. “If you want, you can borrow this. Might come in handy.”
With a steady breath, she whispered a quiet prayer to Paladine. A faint blue glow shimmered briefly around her form before fading, leaving her with a divine lightness in her limbs. Despite the weight of her armor, she moved with sudden grace, each step nearly silent as they crept forward. Her god walked with her tonight.
As Hastos caught up with them. "Hey... we should rethink this."
"I was just talking to Ororana, she told me that there was something weird going on at the graveyard. People disappearing at a specific gravestone. This could turn bad very quickly and were not..." He sees that Sera has her armor. He continues as he looks inquisitively at Seras apparent preparedness... "...*some* of us aren't prepared for combat."
"Besides, while this party isnt really any of our preference, these people went to a lot of effort and expense. We can't just leave - it would be considered disrespectful."
"Ohhh shit." Hastos blurts out as Merkas' message played in his head. "Whhhyyy???" He muttered in a whisper as he grabs the braids on the sides of his head.
Ororanas voice trails off in confusion.
"I mean, oh shit, that does sound weird." He says absently as he scans the room for the team. "Amelista, huh? How long has this cemetery thing been going on?"
(Edit:) Hastos tries desperately to pay attention to Ororana, but his mind is full of thoughts bouncing back and forth. Why would they leave this hugely extravagant party put together for us at great cost to this town? If this was urgent, Merkas didn’t indicate that. Where the hell is Sharn, did he leave, too? I’m not even dressed for this shit!
Hastos puts his finger up between he and Ororana. “Hold that thought.” He says and dashes out to the back to try and intercept the group before they take off to the graveyard.
Ororana shrugs and heads back to the party, dancing between a couple of ladies. She pulls them close and they giggle scandalously.
As Hastos caught up with them. "Hey... we should rethink this."
"I was just talking to Ororana, she told me that there was something weird going on at the graveyard. People disappearing at a specific gravestone. This could turn bad very quickly and were not..." He sees that Sera has her armor. He continues as he looks inquisitively at Seras apparent preparedness... "...*some* of us aren't prepared for combat."
"Besides, while this party isnt really any of our preference, these people went to a lot of effort and expense. We can't just leave - it would be considered disrespectful."
Hastos catches up to the group in the dark. The town is eerily quiet. There's a light in Kasi's shop. Dana is walking over to it, carrying one of her trademark candles and what looks like a plate filled with snacks. The Hachakee are out in the wilderness, dancing next to a massive bonfire. The graveyard ahead of you seems deathly still. Mist hangs low amongst the weeds. You're too far away to make out details, but you catch a vague flash of a silhouette amongst the tombstones. It's roughly the size of a child, but you can't tell if it's running on all fours, or loping like a gorilla.
OOC: If you want to turn back to gear up or enlist help, now is the time.
"More disrespectful than letting something happen in the town, I fear that there's something going on to discredit the council and make Amelista look bad. Not to mention the constant wranglings to keep the people here hopped up on blood lust looking to kill anything that resembles a dragon.Merkas voice rises as he continues "More disrespectful than bringing the very weapon that tried to kill us to the very party meant to honour us, More than spouting words of Kill the Kobolds when an entire group of them did nothing but try to protect and help them in various ways and the one right here in town put their life on the line so they could have a good time without them!" He looks at Hastos exasperated "Y'know maybe you're right, you go on back and soak up the praise, maybe while your there getting fawned over and whatever else comes of that you could learn more from Sharns admirer about what they figures going on. I never said I was going to get into a fight just going to check things out cause it all didn't seem right to me!"
Merkas stands, the crossed arms and determination on his face"I trust you three as much as I trusted my sister so I am going to tell you something really quick, Lady Verhana's note was to let me know that there is an evil in town, and Tekel and goons haven't been doing anything about it. It's some sort of war mongering group that helped at first but seems to be intent on turning the town against itself. She asked that we look into it, I just didn't expect it would be this soon"
"I know..but as Merkas said...now is the time they might strike...when everyone have a party" Sera looks torn. Like it is dumb not be equipet when their enemies most likely would be. " I think we can wait a minute for youbto gear up..."
"The stars guide us to a rotting parasite attached to the limbs of this town. It might consume an organism in this town, or we might be able to follow to the root and what sustains it. I am happy for the town, and I am happy to be seen as part of it." Sharn nodded as if he had finished his thought or as if his words had made clear sense. He was clearly ready to walk into whatever awaited, but he would wait for his companions.
Hastos stares at Merkas dispassionately as Merkas speaks. Then listens to Sera and Sharn. Turning back to Merkas, his face unemotional. “Clearly you have forgotten to whom you are speaking. Regardless, the answer to all your questions is ‘Yes, without question.’ And the reason is because it will be *us* being disrespectful to Glynnis and this town.” Hastos pauses for a breath.
“There’s more food on display in there than these people have seen in months. The pride that this is giving Glynnis to host this will last them years. I am not willing to undermine this trust. If you feel strongly about this then I agree you must act on it, but the situation demands we handle this delicately. Since I am the least prepared, I must stay behind and represent the Dawnbound while you three investigate. Be careful, there is strong magics at play here. Return as quickly as you can. I’ll do what I can here.”
Putting a hand on Sharns shoulder, "Be very careful.” He gazes at Sera intently before turning a sour face towards Merkas. “Do not expect me to save *you* any praise.” Hastos straightens up and asks the group. “Time is critical. Is there anything else?” He asks the group.
Hastos heads back to The Laughing Dwarf. People near the door greet you with drinks, and ask you if you went out for some fresh air. Buckeran bows and offers you a shiraz. "Finding the life of a celebrity challenging?" He says, clearly a little tipsy and feeling quite merry. "It certainly has its perks, but sometimes, the worshippers can be... overwhelming. I find a bit of wine helps." He hiccups and covers his mouth, a bit embarrased.
The celebration is still in full swing, and the band is playing another raucous hit. You can't pass by a body without being drawn, at least for a moment, into a dance. Verhanna is still watching you closely, but seems amused to see you being passed around from one dancer to the next.
Near the cemetary...
Sera, Sharn, and Merkas sneak their way towards the graveyard. As you get closer, you notice that child-sized silhouette again dashing between the tombstones. It's movement is startlingly fast, and it's about 20 feet away from you.
“Praise? Praise?! Didn’t want it, didn’t ask for it, not looking for it. I’d rather be forgotten or hated and know that I saved the life of someone than get rewarded while there’s people planning death and destruction” Merkas deflates a little at the mention of Glynnis “but you are right about those that have put their trust in us, Sharn, Sera maybe one of you should go back to, just so Has isn’t stuck covering for us by himself.” Looking over them he says, “Sera was the one with the dream and I am the one concerned about this so maybe it’s best we two go? Promise to take care of her and we’re only scouting, any fighting we disengage and make our way back here quick as possible”
When Hastos moves off, Merkas sends a message to him again:
"I have not nor will I ever forget who I am talking to, you are very much my voice of reason to keep me from to crazy an action. Thank you for your cool head and strong arms. You can reply if you wish"
"We better move quick, wait" Merkas stops and peers through the darkness at the shadow (12 perception check) "What's a kid doing roaming around in the dark like this, especially with everyone at the hall? Maybe a gnome or kender?"
Hastos laughs and confirms he needed a breath of fresh air. Hastos accepts the Shiraz, but spills most of it greeting and shaking hands with everyone. He hears Merkas voice in his head again, and pretends to finish off the drink so he can hide his response.
“Thank you. Be careful, stick together. Strength in numbers. Summon me if you need me. I have this covered.”
(Perf: 14)
A young woman grabs him and pulls him onto the dance floor. The music tempo is fast and it takes a moment for him to get the hang of the woman’s dance pattern, but with him on the floor it’s clear that he’s a open target for a dance and soon enough he’s being passed around freely to anyone interested in a spin!
Hastos smiles large and shows that he has quite the grasp of various dance styles. He really puts on the charm and politely flirts with the women as he laughs and spins. As each town person passes him to the next he makes his way closer and closer to the stage. He wants all eyes on him. When he reaches the stage, at the end of a song, he hops up and asks to sit in with the band. He announces to the crowd “Thank you all for showing us such hospitality! You’ll pardon me if this isn’t up to the quality of musicianship you had just a minute ago, but if you’ll allow me, I’d love to try and play a bit for you!”
The crowd cheers and he breaks out into a series of strathspeys, jigs, and reels. While not challenging for the band to keep up with him, it keeps the mood on the dance floor lively and focused. As they synced together as a group, the band brought their flavor to the older song styles and the dance floor returns to its chaotic state!
Watching Hastos return to the party tugs at something in Sera. He’s right, of course—leaving the celebration like this is reckless. If it hadn’t been for the dream, for the weight of divine warning behind it, she might have gone with him. But you don’t discard a vision from your god so easily.
She just hopes this will be over quickly.
As they arrive at the cemetery, movement catches her eye—a small figure darting between tombstones. It’s humanoid. Not undead, by the look of it. A sentry? A scout?
Sera frowns. She thought she’d been quiet, moving like a shadow in her armor thanks to divine aid. But if that thing is already running, it might be heading off to alert someone. That can’t be allowed.
Without a word, Sera bursts forward. ( enhanced dex to run smoothly and not tripping getting dex+ath 20 )
Her magically-empowered limbs propel her across the graveyard, agile and silent. She weaves through headstones, leaps a cracked crypt, and pushes herself to close the distance—her eyes fixed on the fleeing creature, determined not to let it escape.
Sharn saw Sera dart out and moved around the other side to intercept and corner the figure. (20 athletics to catch up and flank on the other side.) Sharn was ready for what came next. He cursed his intuition, for he imagined the evil he would face.
The crowd cheers as Hastos plays with Vix-Sin and dances along to the jaunty tune. When it ends, Namuya clasps hands with you and hoists it high. "Hastos everyone!"
Namuya leans in, "That was pretty good! Wanna join us for another one?"
The band fires up another fast-paced protest song...
At the Cemetery...
Sharn and Sera form a pincer maneuver, cutting off the shadow lurking amidst the tombstones. You catch it completely offguard! It sees Sharn first, and turns to bolt... right into Sera's diving form! The both of you tumble through the weeds and land in a skid. It scurries to get back on its feet, but Sera catches it by its furry boot. Or... is that a foot?? You look up to see a terrified Harengon who falls back down on its face, dropping a basket that scatters brightly colored items across the dirt.
"I didn't see anything! I swear! I won't tell anyone! Just please let me go!" The Harengon whimpers, covering their eyes. "I didn't even see your faces. I can't tell anyone if I didn't see your faces!"
With Sharn flanking from the side, the two execute a swift pincer maneuver. Sera doesn’t hesitate—she surges forward, and with a well-timed leap, tackles the fleeing figure to the ground.
They tumble into the dirt between gravestones. Sera pins the creature beneath her with practiced strength, ready for a fight.
But... it’s no undead.
Blinking in disbelief, she stares down at a startled haregon—large ears twitching, eyes wide, and clutching a wicker basket overflowing with brightly colored eggs, trinkets, and sweets.
Sera sits back slightly, frowning as if the world’s gone sideways. “By Morgoth’s rotten balls,” she mutters, baffled. “Who in the Abyss are you supposed to be? The... the graveyard bunny?”
The Harengon gets up and dusts himself off. He's wearing a smart looking purple vest and a pink bow is tied around his neck. "I go by many names. You may call me Jacklop, I suppose. I serve Politan during the Spring Awakening. Though..." he looks around at the barren surroundings, "it would seem spring has passed this place over. Which is why I am here tonight. I thought your little village could use some cheer. As I was hiding my colorful delights throughout this dreary place, I noticed robed figures heading towards the graveyard. They seemed to be a sinister lot, so I hid from them. I was trying to flee when you attacked me. I must say... this is the first time I've ever been tackled and interrogated while on my mission. You don't seem so sinister though. Who, may I ask, are you?"
The strange creature stammers out a reply, calling himself Jacklop—a Spring Awakening Rabbit, he says, here to spread cheer by hiding sweets and little gifts around town. His bright eyes and jittery voice make him seem more festival mascot than threat, and Sera finds her fierce grip relaxing with a twinge of guilt.
She helps him brushing more dust from his fur. “This village needs cheering indeed, the kids will love this” she says with a gentler tone. “You’re most welcome, Jacklop. I’m Sera uth Darnon, from Solamnia"
He nods nervously, ears twitching as he explains he’d been hiding from creepy hooded figures. That catches Sera’s full attention.
She turns to Merkas and Sharn, her voice firm. “We were right. Something’s going on tonight.”
Then, glancing toward the deeper shadows of the cemetery path, she looks back to Jacklop. “Can you tell how many there were? And which way they went?”
Her hand rests lightly on her weapon as she waits, still alert despite the strange encounter.
Approaching the three as the chatter is happening"Well, I'll be, I was pretty sure you were a myth, and please don't say you're a 'Myth'ter, too old of a joke. We're Dawnbound, and actually looking for these robed figures your talking about. Not that we want to join them just that we want to find out if they're doing anything that may harm the town." Looking around the space as her carries on "Yeah, Spring is pretty hard to happen in a place that's missing the water needed, though we aren't looking forward to summer without getting more water. What kind of things you hiding? Anything that may help with the water issue?" Reaching down to help collect the spilled treasures and return them (20 Sleight of hand, can't help being a kender) "SO yeah, you hear these guys say anything about where they were going or what they were up to?"
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Loyalty Begets Honour
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Heading down the street with the other two “Straight up we’re being sneaky, this group thinks we’re all at the party, hoping no one comes around looking for anything, we should be able to get some info easier because they are more relaxed” Merkas says as he takes the kerchief and tucks it in between items that are more likely to rattle or clink. (Nat-1 Stealth total 7 this is going to be fun!) Stopping and ducking into the shadow of a building as he hears another set of footsteps approaching. “Hastos, glad you could join us, nice to see the advances of another woman hasn’t completely fogged your focus”
Loyalty Begets Honour
Sera spotted Hastos approaching at a run, his deer leather vest tugged over his shoulders in haste—clearly, he hadn’t had time to don his beloved armor. She gave him a warm smile as he reached them.
“From party to graveyard in a heartbeat,” she said softly, amused. Then, with a small chuckle, she offered him her shield. “If you want, you can borrow this. Might come in handy.”
With a steady breath, she whispered a quiet prayer to Paladine. A faint blue glow shimmered briefly around her form before fading, leaving her with a divine lightness in her limbs. Despite the weight of her armor, she moved with sudden grace, each step nearly silent as they crept forward. Her god walked with her tonight.
As Hastos caught up with them. "Hey... we should rethink this."
"I was just talking to Ororana, she told me that there was something weird going on at the graveyard. People disappearing at a specific gravestone. This could turn bad very quickly and were not..." He sees that Sera has her armor. He continues as he looks inquisitively at Seras apparent preparedness... "...*some* of us aren't prepared for combat."
"Besides, while this party isnt really any of our preference, these people went to a lot of effort and expense. We can't just leave - it would be considered disrespectful."
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Ororana shrugs and heads back to the party, dancing between a couple of ladies. She pulls them close and they giggle scandalously.
Hastos catches up to the group in the dark. The town is eerily quiet. There's a light in Kasi's shop. Dana is walking over to it, carrying one of her trademark candles and what looks like a plate filled with snacks. The Hachakee are out in the wilderness, dancing next to a massive bonfire. The graveyard ahead of you seems deathly still. Mist hangs low amongst the weeds. You're too far away to make out details, but you catch a vague flash of a silhouette amongst the tombstones. It's roughly the size of a child, but you can't tell if it's running on all fours, or loping like a gorilla.
OOC: If you want to turn back to gear up or enlist help, now is the time.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
"More disrespectful than letting something happen in the town, I fear that there's something going on to discredit the council and make Amelista look bad. Not to mention the constant wranglings to keep the people here hopped up on blood lust looking to kill anything that resembles a dragon.Merkas voice rises as he continues "More disrespectful than bringing the very weapon that tried to kill us to the very party meant to honour us, More than spouting words of Kill the Kobolds when an entire group of them did nothing but try to protect and help them in various ways and the one right here in town put their life on the line so they could have a good time without them!" He looks at Hastos exasperated "Y'know maybe you're right, you go on back and soak up the praise, maybe while your there getting fawned over and whatever else comes of that you could learn more from Sharns admirer about what they figures going on. I never said I was going to get into a fight just going to check things out cause it all didn't seem right to me!"
Merkas stands, the crossed arms and determination on his face "I trust you three as much as I trusted my sister so I am going to tell you something really quick, Lady Verhana's note was to let me know that there is an evil in town, and Tekel and goons haven't been doing anything about it. It's some sort of war mongering group that helped at first but seems to be intent on turning the town against itself. She asked that we look into it, I just didn't expect it would be this soon"
Loyalty Begets Honour
"I know..but as Merkas said...now is the time they might strike...when everyone have a party" Sera looks torn. Like it is dumb not be equipet when their enemies most likely would be. " I think we can wait a minute for youbto gear up..."
"The stars guide us to a rotting parasite attached to the limbs of this town. It might consume an organism in this town, or we might be able to follow to the root and what sustains it. I am happy for the town, and I am happy to be seen as part of it." Sharn nodded as if he had finished his thought or as if his words had made clear sense. He was clearly ready to walk into whatever awaited, but he would wait for his companions.
Hastos stares at Merkas dispassionately as Merkas speaks. Then listens to Sera and Sharn. Turning back to Merkas, his face unemotional. “Clearly you have forgotten to whom you are speaking. Regardless, the answer to all your questions is ‘Yes, without question.’ And the reason is because it will be *us* being disrespectful to Glynnis and this town.” Hastos pauses for a breath.
“There’s more food on display in there than these people have seen in months. The pride that this is giving Glynnis to host this will last them years. I am not willing to undermine this trust. If you feel strongly about this then I agree you must act on it, but the situation demands we handle this delicately. Since I am the least prepared, I must stay behind and represent the Dawnbound while you three investigate. Be careful, there is strong magics at play here. Return as quickly as you can. I’ll do what I can here.”
Putting a hand on Sharns shoulder, "Be very careful.” He gazes at Sera intently before turning a sour face towards Merkas. “Do not expect me to save *you* any praise.” Hastos straightens up and asks the group. “Time is critical. Is there anything else?” He asks the group.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Hastos heads back to The Laughing Dwarf. People near the door greet you with drinks, and ask you if you went out for some fresh air. Buckeran bows and offers you a shiraz. "Finding the life of a celebrity challenging?" He says, clearly a little tipsy and feeling quite merry. "It certainly has its perks, but sometimes, the worshippers can be... overwhelming. I find a bit of wine helps." He hiccups and covers his mouth, a bit embarrased.
The celebration is still in full swing, and the band is playing another raucous hit. You can't pass by a body without being drawn, at least for a moment, into a dance. Verhanna is still watching you closely, but seems amused to see you being passed around from one dancer to the next.
Near the cemetary...
Sera, Sharn, and Merkas sneak their way towards the graveyard. As you get closer, you notice that child-sized silhouette again dashing between the tombstones. It's movement is startlingly fast, and it's about 20 feet away from you.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
“Praise? Praise?! Didn’t want it, didn’t ask for it, not looking for it. I’d rather be forgotten or hated and know that I saved the life of someone than get rewarded while there’s people planning death and destruction” Merkas deflates a little at the mention of Glynnis “but you are right about those that have put their trust in us, Sharn, Sera maybe one of you should go back to, just so Has isn’t stuck covering for us by himself.” Looking over them he says, “Sera was the one with the dream and I am the one concerned about this so maybe it’s best we two go? Promise to take care of her and we’re only scouting, any fighting we disengage and make our way back here quick as possible”
Loyalty Begets Honour
When Hastos moves off, Merkas sends a message to him again:
"I have not nor will I ever forget who I am talking to, you are very much my voice of reason to keep me from to crazy an action. Thank you for your cool head and strong arms. You can reply if you wish"
"We better move quick, wait"
Merkas stops and peers through the darkness at the shadow (12 perception check) "What's a kid doing roaming around in the dark like this, especially with everyone at the hall? Maybe a gnome or kender?"
Loyalty Begets Honour
Hastos laughs and confirms he needed a breath of fresh air. Hastos accepts the Shiraz, but spills most of it greeting and shaking hands with everyone. He hears Merkas voice in his head again, and pretends to finish off the drink so he can hide his response.
“Thank you. Be careful, stick together. Strength in numbers. Summon me if you need me. I have this covered.”
(Perf: 14)
A young woman grabs him and pulls him onto the dance floor. The music tempo is fast and it takes a moment for him to get the hang of the woman’s dance pattern, but with him on the floor it’s clear that he’s a open target for a dance and soon enough he’s being passed around freely to anyone interested in a spin!
Hastos smiles large and shows that he has quite the grasp of various dance styles. He really puts on the charm and politely flirts with the women as he laughs and spins. As each town person passes him to the next he makes his way closer and closer to the stage. He wants all eyes on him. When he reaches the stage, at the end of a song, he hops up and asks to sit in with the band. He announces to the crowd “Thank you all for showing us such hospitality! You’ll pardon me if this isn’t up to the quality of musicianship you had just a minute ago, but if you’ll allow me, I’d love to try and play a bit for you!”
The crowd cheers and he breaks out into a series of strathspeys, jigs, and reels. While not challenging for the band to keep up with him, it keeps the mood on the dance floor lively and focused. As they synced together as a group, the band brought their flavor to the older song styles and the dance floor returns to its chaotic state!
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Watching Hastos return to the party tugs at something in Sera. He’s right, of course—leaving the celebration like this is reckless. If it hadn’t been for the dream, for the weight of divine warning behind it, she might have gone with him. But you don’t discard a vision from your god so easily.
She just hopes this will be over quickly.
As they arrive at the cemetery, movement catches her eye—a small figure darting between tombstones. It’s humanoid. Not undead, by the look of it. A sentry? A scout?
Sera frowns. She thought she’d been quiet, moving like a shadow in her armor thanks to divine aid. But if that thing is already running, it might be heading off to alert someone. That can’t be allowed.
Without a word, Sera bursts forward. ( enhanced dex to run smoothly and not tripping getting dex+ath 20 )
Her magically-empowered limbs propel her across the graveyard, agile and silent. She weaves through headstones, leaps a cracked crypt, and pushes herself to close the distance—her eyes fixed on the fleeing creature, determined not to let it escape.
Sharn saw Sera dart out and moved around the other side to intercept and corner the figure. (20 athletics to catch up and flank on the other side.) Sharn was ready for what came next. He cursed his intuition, for he imagined the evil he would face.
At the Laughing Dwarf...
The crowd cheers as Hastos plays with Vix-Sin and dances along to the jaunty tune. When it ends, Namuya clasps hands with you and hoists it high. "Hastos everyone!"
Namuya leans in, "That was pretty good! Wanna join us for another one?"
The band fires up another fast-paced protest song...
At the Cemetery...
Sharn and Sera form a pincer maneuver, cutting off the shadow lurking amidst the tombstones. You catch it completely offguard! It sees Sharn first, and turns to bolt... right into Sera's diving form! The both of you tumble through the weeds and land in a skid. It scurries to get back on its feet, but Sera catches it by its furry boot. Or... is that a foot?? You look up to see a terrified Harengon who falls back down on its face, dropping a basket that scatters brightly colored items across the dirt.
"I didn't see anything! I swear! I won't tell anyone! Just please let me go!" The Harengon whimpers, covering their eyes. "I didn't even see your faces. I can't tell anyone if I didn't see your faces!"
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
With Sharn flanking from the side, the two execute a swift pincer maneuver. Sera doesn’t hesitate—she surges forward, and with a well-timed leap, tackles the fleeing figure to the ground.
They tumble into the dirt between gravestones. Sera pins the creature beneath her with practiced strength, ready for a fight.
But... it’s no undead.
Blinking in disbelief, she stares down at a startled haregon—large ears twitching, eyes wide, and clutching a wicker basket overflowing with brightly colored eggs, trinkets, and sweets.
Sera sits back slightly, frowning as if the world’s gone sideways. “By Morgoth’s rotten balls,” she mutters, baffled. “Who in the Abyss are you supposed to be? The... the graveyard bunny?”
Sharn chuckled, containing a laugh. He wiped his eye from the tear caused by the absurdity of the situation.
"Well young friend, sorry for tackling you. May we hear your name and what you did not see?"
The Harengon gets up and dusts himself off. He's wearing a smart looking purple vest and a pink bow is tied around his neck. "I go by many names. You may call me Jacklop, I suppose. I serve Politan during the Spring Awakening. Though..." he looks around at the barren surroundings, "it would seem spring has passed this place over. Which is why I am here tonight. I thought your little village could use some cheer. As I was hiding my colorful delights throughout this dreary place, I noticed robed figures heading towards the graveyard. They seemed to be a sinister lot, so I hid from them. I was trying to flee when you attacked me. I must say... this is the first time I've ever been tackled and interrogated while on my mission. You don't seem so sinister though. Who, may I ask, are you?"
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
The strange creature stammers out a reply, calling himself Jacklop—a Spring Awakening Rabbit, he says, here to spread cheer by hiding sweets and little gifts around town. His bright eyes and jittery voice make him seem more festival mascot than threat, and Sera finds her fierce grip relaxing with a twinge of guilt.
She helps him brushing more dust from his fur. “This village needs cheering indeed, the kids will love this” she says with a gentler tone. “You’re most welcome, Jacklop. I’m Sera uth Darnon, from Solamnia"
He nods nervously, ears twitching as he explains he’d been hiding from creepy hooded figures. That catches Sera’s full attention.
She turns to Merkas and Sharn, her voice firm. “We were right. Something’s going on tonight.”
Then, glancing toward the deeper shadows of the cemetery path, she looks back to Jacklop. “Can you tell how many there were? And which way they went?”
Her hand rests lightly on her weapon as she waits, still alert despite the strange encounter.
Approaching the three as the chatter is happening "Well, I'll be, I was pretty sure you were a myth, and please don't say you're a 'Myth'ter, too old of a joke. We're Dawnbound, and actually looking for these robed figures your talking about. Not that we want to join them just that we want to find out if they're doing anything that may harm the town." Looking around the space as her carries on "Yeah, Spring is pretty hard to happen in a place that's missing the water needed, though we aren't looking forward to summer without getting more water. What kind of things you hiding? Anything that may help with the water issue?" Reaching down to help collect the spilled treasures and return them (20 Sleight of hand, can't help being a kender) "SO yeah, you hear these guys say anything about where they were going or what they were up to?"
Loyalty Begets Honour