"Lem," Thistle starts, trying to soothe him. "Remember, Skreed is here to find something. Their army, whatever it is, is not ready to march, they need this... item. Maybe it is a symbol for them to rally around, or maybe even some item of power. But an invasion is not imminent. Our best bet for finding Skreed is to get his description in front of as many of the guard as we can, and our best bet for doing that is to get Lord Markelhay on our side, so that the Commander sees it as reasonable. We *do* need to do it quickly, I agree, but we also need to use our heads. I know you understand that."
It seems Lem is determined to go ahead and leave, but Thistle hopes some of that she says will stick with him and temper his actions.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he). Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
Lem's eye fix on Thistle, and he slowly nods, gears turning in his head. "You may be speaking sense. Thank you... for listening. Perhaps Yokini will return soon but let us go find Markelhay before this service so we're not caught off guard by anything Skreed's planning when everyone is distracted."
Thistle smiles at having gotten through to the dwarf. “Tyari sent a monk, but it *has* been an hour. I’ll wait here with Daktani if you still want to go. Just be back in time for Romero’s ceremony, it would be a shame for you to miss it.”
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ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he). Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
Though Zashier had readied to depart with Lem last, with Thistle's point made about Nobles and his own expectation's supporting it, wrong or right though they might've been, he couldn't help but breath a small sigh of relief in a messenger being sent in their stead. Though moments later some of Lem's antsy seemed to rub off on the elephantine man, he squeezed his eyes shut, and brushed a hand along the trunk until calmed once more.
Goodbyes are said, a great big hug given, but once Yashiera was on her way, the only thing remained was to wait. During the initial wait, Zashier would approach Daktani once more, inviting whether than letting a moment's urgency compel him towards interrogations. If accepted however, little to nothing of the topics broached by Zashier has anything to do with the present at all, but about Daktani himself and the plight of the half-orcs in every aspect the man could think of when it came to fallcrest. There are times as well as went into the topic of friends made, other hops Daktani might've had, other things that might naturally come out of a heart to heart. Knowing to some extent how much of a talker he himself could be as well, Zashier in some ways restrained himself, but in others had been truly content to just listen.
But closer to the end of that hour, one thought would steadily return to former man.
He still had yet to go visit the body of Romero. Alone. To see his brother from another mother (or so they sometimes joked) in his current state. So, it was unless lured away from conversing with Daktani or sitting somewhere else in the Sanctuary, that he would have no part in any further talks of seeking the Lord again. And if he had been at some point, he just absentmindedly nodded in agreement with Thistle, but didn't seem to be all there until her last suggestion. "... I... need to take a walk myself. Get some fresh air, 'n all that. So, uh, lead on, Mr. Lem. I'll be right behind you."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Lem and Zashier head out in search of Lord Markelhay, making their way through upper Fallcrest to the opposite side where Moonstone Keep is. There is a bit of a hold up at the front gate as the guards are enamored by the Heroes of Fallcrest, but they do finally let you in after some parchments are autographed and whatnot.
You make your way inside only to find the monk that had been sent with the message earlier. He informs you that he was unable to find Lord Markelhay, but had been detained in the keep...but he is hesitant to say why. If pushed about why he was detained, you notice his hair seems disheveled, and the buttons of his overshirt are....off by one, as if he dressed hastily. Not knowing all the details of the message, he was not aware of the urgency of your discussion with Lord Markelhay. He had an afternoon rendezvous with one of Lord Markelhay's daughters while he was there to deliver the message and the Lord was unable to be found.
After he finished...whatever he was doing...he was able to find out that Lord Markelhay was actually out visiting with Bireal and Commander Jagrin Grath about Romero.
You both make your way back to the Sanctuary, along with a few dozen other folks heading that direction, for the ceremony. It is obvious Romero had quite an impact on this community. Yokini comes not far behind you, all of you arriving in time for the ceremony to start.
Thistle comes out to meet you in the crowd, and shortly after behind her a solemn Tyari Varvados, the High Priestess, leads a processional out the door. Behind her several monks from the temple have a makeshift palette, held on their shoulders, the body of Romero in repose atop the palette, arms folded, face at peace.
The crowd parts to make way for the procession, then falls in step behind. (you can be wherever you want in the crowd - totally up to you where you fall in)
Jagrin Grath and Bireal and Salazar are ushered to the front of the following crowd, directly behind the body. Brinya slowly makes her way through the crowd as they walk, being sure to stay close to the body of her beloved, but being sure to stay behind Jagrin and the family.
The procession winds its way North, a solemn column of Fallcrestians, bound by their determination and grit and their history together in this town. They have defended it side by side, shoulder to shoulder, and now one of their own has fallen.
In case you are keeping a lookout for any of the images Lem has been able to conjure, no need to roll perception. You dont see anyone matching that description in this crowd.
You continue North to the Flame of the Fallen (see map in World Building Document - in case you dont have it, https://www.notion.so/davesteele/Fallcrest-025fa4d990fa48dfb5f086e5a33f4466) where a large Pyre has been built. There isnt room to bury the dead in town, and out of concern for orcs in the surrounding area desecrating their remains, Fallcrest's dead are burned in a pyre here; this pyre also serves as one of the beacons in town that are lit during times of siege, to alert other settlements in the area of danger and the need for help.
Tonight the pyre will be used to consume a fallen comrade.
The procession arrives, and the body is laid atop the pyre, and Tyari asks if anyone would like to speak on behalf of the fallen...
Thistle will not have left the Sanctuary without a discussion with Tyari or her people about the protection of Daktani. Clearly, the half-orc cannot come to the funeral. But Thistle will be inclined to stay behind if she is not satisfied that he will be well protected (and prevented from leaving if he decided to do so). If it comes to it, she would rather miss the ceremony than leave the witness alone.
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ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he). Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
Tyari discusses the situation with you and Daktani. She offers the basement area where they keep the bodies, and will lock him down there. Daktani is visibly shaken at this, but with some reassurance that you will return for him and he will not be left there to die seems to calm him. If it is ok with you, Tyari will lock him in the basement with 2 monks standing guard.
Thistle will question the monks lightly, using her Ear for Deception, but ends up satisfied. She *does* want to be there, since it will be an important moment for Bireal, even though she plans to keep her distance.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he). Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
Lem is very frustrated not to be able to find Markelhay, but returns to the Sanctuary. He asks the group before they begin leaving, "should I go out and look around town for Skreed while everyone's at the funeral? It might be the perfect time to find him. That seems like a fair memorial to a fallen warrior -- finding his killer hiding in his town."
Yokini, seeing Thistle's worry and frustration, volunteers to stay with Daktani. "I don't remember Romero, or if we even met during the war. I know your friend would appreciate you being there to hold her hand." The gray-haired gnome gives Thistle a kind, motherly smile, encouraging her to not worry and to go to the ceremony.
Yokini allows herself to be locked up with the half-orc. If he seems apprehensive about her, she'll give him a disarming smile. "Don't worry there, bucko. I'm not going to hurt you." She lifts her gloved hand and wiggles her fingers. "Don't get me wrong. I can put on the hurt when I need to." She smiles a humorous grin and lowers her hand. "So, I don't think I introduced myself," she says, sitting down. "I'm Yokini Nackle. I'm a doctor. I live here in Fallcrest. My sister and her family run an inn and tavern here in town. We used to live west of here, but the orcs —" She suddenly stops talking and cuts her eyes toward Daktani. "Well, we don't need to talk about that, do we?" She looks at the floor and swings her legs in awkward silence.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
While not one to press, Zashier's recent 'awakening' into the world of being observant made it harder to ignore the dishevelness of the monk. Thus, only due to concern regarding the monk perhaps having been intercepted and roughed up by some supposed "guard" meant pushing more than usual. The news given is such, that a very furiously blushing Zashier would simply nod slowly, try to effect a look of disappointment, but then failed to as 'rendezvous' resurfaced in mind.
In any case, whenever they would return to the Sanctuary and Lem made the suggestion, Zashier just faintly smiled. "That would be one, if albeit a risky one. I would accompany you, but-..." He trailed off for a moment, and just looks towards whatever last minute preparations might be going on in the temple. He then bows his head for a moment, before slowly nodding at a thought. "I'm not much for wiles, or not nearly as much as Romero used to be. But, he'd probably say something like this could just be a perfect distraction for someone like Skreed, so... do what you think would be best, I guess, and be safe." He replied to Lem.
If there's nothing more to discuss prior to the ceremony, when its time, Zashier is closer to the back of the procession, not wanting to deny any fellow Fallcrestians a view. At least, that is what Zashier would tell himself. Just as he told himself that he needed to keep more than just an eye out for Skreed, disguised or not, but on the Fallcrestians. Searching for any signs of a similar incident as the Lord's keep. An impossible task, more than likely, and yet... such things were the distractions sought by a desperate elephantine man seeking to delay take his mind off current events.
But eventually they reach the pyre, and eventually -- though at least after anyone else wished, he would make his way forward to speak...
(If able to have taken a short rest during the waiting period) --> SR Healing(2): 16.
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When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Thistle is glad to let Yokini stay with Daktani, and even squeezes the gnomes hand in a sign of affection as she departs. "Thank you, Yokini."
She is, as always, on her guard during the procession, watching the people, especially the ones who are also watching the people. She'll nod in acknowledgment to any of the guards on duty tonight who meet her eyes. Once nearer to the end, she has trouble taking her eyes off Bireal, but she does not get close. Once the procession has stopped, she'll find a vantage point a little higher than most (she's shortish) so she can see clearly what is going on. (And just maybe so Bireal can see that she is there.)
She has no intention of saying anything during the ceremony.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he). Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
With a short rest, 2 HD for 3 healing, and also a second level spell slot back from arcane recovery.
"Yokini, can you tell me where you saw the graffiti? Maybe Skreed will be around them. I'm going hunting. Carefully. I'll come back to catch the last bits of the memorial, whether I find something or not."
Lem'll take ten minutes to ritually cast unseen servant, and then let Yokini and Thistle (and Zashier before he headed to the funeral) know that he was heading out into town, casting invisibility and having Moon trail above him, rooftop to rooftop, toggling into her head from time to time. The unseen servant would just trail invisibly behind him as he walked, ready to help cause a distraction or do something he didn't want to do while invisible. And he'll walk as much of the town as he could, 30-40 minutes.
He'd gotten to know the place fairly well, but there were certainly places he didn't know. But he'd be suspicious of anything he saw, anyone who wasn't at the funeral. Any sign of Skreed or someone up to no good. Romero had been through some of the same trials Lem had, and deserved memorialization, and justice, but most of all memory. He deserved memory. Lem hadn't forgotten the man, even though they hadn't crossed paths much in the war. He hoped to uncover some of the mystery, while those better at talking to people did he talking and listening and socially agile things.
There's an initial nervousness that besets Zashier while making his way forward. A guilt that weighed on the conscious with every step, as his last moments with the man played again in mind. Knowing the elphantine man had the tendency to goof up even the most serious of moments at time, none would've been surprised had he got just close enough to the front as if to seem one way, only to duck off to the side; giving those that paid him any mind at first a sheepish grin. Yet, this did not occur, and before long the elephantine man is close enough to meet the family of Romero's eyes, asking silently for final permission.
For while Tyari, the high priestess, had already given it, it is the families that mattered more to him in that moment. Once given, he took up whatever spot Tyari motioned for a speaker, straightened out his back, and cleared his throat. "Evening everyone. The names Zashier Zaltomane, on the off chance you didn't know. And if didn't, well, now you do."He stated, giving his best disarming smile, before then letting it drop naturally into a more solemn one.
"Those that know me well enough know I'm a... I tend to go off a wee bit on tangents whenever I speak. So, for all our sakes, I'll... you know, avoid that... Me and Romero, before I became what I am in ever since in the world.. we grew up together. So, it should come as no surprise then that over time we became like brothers. Ones who would go to the Ninez and back for each other. Certainly something he proved during the war. Though back then, that feeling expanded to all that stood beside us, as a number of you can attest to. I'd even go so far as to say he was more of Hero of Fallcrest than I ever was or been claimed to be. Because he never stopped looking out for others, and this place we called home." He paused for a moment, looking over the gathering and letting the words sink in.
"That isn't to say he wasn't without his flaws, as we all are. With so many looking up to him or towards him expecting a certain way of things, there comes a weight thats hard to ignore, you know... Yet, he preserved though, as he always had, and in time-..." Zashier trailed off nodding more to himself than anyone. "... Even though he has gone off to a better realm, that doesn't mean he isn't watching out for us still. Or that anything he's accomplish is destined to end in ash. For we all carry a bit of Romero with us, to inspire us in our darkest moments, to give us strength to see our ambitions through, and.. well, you all the rest." He smiled. "With that said, and as final send off for my friend, I'd like to... like to pass along one of his more musical creations before poems became a bit of a thing for him."
Again, Zashier clears his throat, and if not stopped at this point for speaking for a bit too long, which subconsciously worried him, the elephantine man began in a resonant tone a bittersweet song from the days of the war. "It's time to strap our boots on. This is the perfect day to die. Wipe the blood out of our eyes~ In this life there's no surrender. There's nothing left for us to do. Find the strength to see this through~ We~ Are the ones who will never be broken. With our final breath, whe'll fight ot death-..." And on he sung, intending to end after a few more verses. But, if the crowd -- those within it that remembered it from the first and only time it was sung during the quieter moments of the defense -- took upt he song as well, he would continue having been inspired.
(S/N: Attuning to the Staff of Healing as part of the SR)
Yokini, in a kind gesture, stays behind with Daktani, locked up with him in the basement of the sanctuary. Daktani at first looks a bit concerned at this new development, but as you settle into comfortable conversation, his nerves are put a bit more at ease. Your talk dissolves into uncomfortable silence, for both of you - neither one interested in making further conversation.
--
Lem, seeking to find Skreed and possibly avoid any awkardness at the ceremony, sets off invisibly into the city, Moon drifting from updraft to updraft overhead in slow, lazy circles above Lem as he makes his way through the streets to where Yokini told him she found the paint.
With it being evening, and darkness beginning to creep into the sky, Lem is able to make his way quietly through the city without being noticed. Many citizens are still at their homes or places of business, as not everyone knew Romero, or perhaps was not a fan of the Grath family. Whatever reason they had, folks still drifted through town, finishing up dinner or locking up their business, heading home after a long, but average day.
Though it had only been a few days since the murder, the town seems to have quickly gotten back to normal. Just like all humans do - they seek out normalcy when suddenly meeting something so unexpected.
Lem, you make your way to a few of the spots mentioned to you by Yokini, but you do not see any orcs or half-orcs at these location. You dont know if they found a new place, or are using a different marker now, but none of the graffiti spots seem to garner any special orc-ish attention. Moon confirms as much, flying over the town, there doesnt seem to be any activity out of the ordinary within the Fallcrestian walls.
Dejected by your lack of discovery, you slowly make your way back to the ceremony.
--
Thistle, you make your way inconspicuously to the top of a nearby cart, being sure to keep a bird eye view on the ceremony. Zashier, you stick around near the back, believing it is because you dont want to block anyones view...knowing there is a deeper meaning to your choice.
The family makes their way to the front of the ceremony. When Tyari offers the floor to anyone who wants to speak on behalf of Romero, a few of the guards step up and say a few words. In typical brutish fashion, they muddle their way through a few words, trying (one or two failing) to avoid being crass. They are saddened by the loss of their brother-in-arms, and so they hide behind the false bravado of soldier-ly might.
A few others from around town step up and say a few words.
Zashier, unable to wait any longer, makes his way through the crowd to the front, where he waits his turn to speak.
Seeing Zashier move through the crowd seems to have emboldened one of the watchers, who make their way through the crowd as well....Brinya Kelver comes to stand behind Zashier.
Zashier is finally able to get in front of the crowd, and his words are moving. The crowd echoes the sentiments said about Romero, and when he goes into song, there are easily a dozen or so voices from the crowd that join in singing with you.
--
Lem, you make your way up to the ceremony during the song. You catch Thistle's eye, and shake your head letting her know you were unable to find Skreed.
--
Once the song is finished, there is a bit of a hush over the crowd as everyone is lost in their thoughts, thinking about ones they have loved and lost in this battle-torn land, but it is not sadness in their faces - it is pride in their fellow Fallcrestians, it is a resolute strength ingrained in every man, woman, and child with a Hope Knife.
Bireal asks you to stay with them, at the front...and slowly, from where you were standing earlier, Brinya Kelver steps up. She is not facing the crowd, she is facing Jagrin, as if waiting to see what his next move will be.
Jagrin takes a deep breath, looks to Bireal and Salazaar, and yes even to Zashier, then he steps forward, moving toward Brinya. When he gets in front of her, Zashier you can see this battle-hardened warrior is shedding several tears as he opens his arms and embraces Brinya. There is an audible gasp from the crowd, but this does not stop them. He whispers something in her ear, then steps back so she can step forward to say a few words.
Brinya: As many of you may have heard, Romero and I were engaged. To many of you he was a protector, to others a friend. To me, he was my world - my sun, moon, and stars. When he looked at me, I knew that despite how I felt invisible for so many years, I was not invisible to him. In his gaze, the hate and derision washed away, and I was renewed. She turns to face the body on the pyre I will forever miss you my love, my tender warrior, my Romero.
She steps back to offer the speaking place to Jagrin, but he is choked up and unable to speak. He motions for Tyari to continue with the ceremony.
Several monks pull lit torches from a small fire barrel, and hand one to Jagrin, one to Bireal, one to Salazaar, and one more to Zashier (likely this is why Bireal wanted you to stay - she wanted to honor your relationship with Romero by letting you be a part of the process), and each of you takes a position on the corner of the pyre, and in unison, touch your torches to the pyre.
As it goes up in flame, Tyari steps up and address the crowd:
We’re here to say goodbye to our brother and friend Romero. Do not lose heart, do not lose faith. Have hope.
and as she says "have hope" she holds out her hand, and Brinya hands her Romero's Hope Knife, which Tyari takes and holds aloft, then moves and plunges the knife into the flame to requench the blade , the metal is heated and turns black. She consecrates the Flame of the Fallen with some herbs and other items, and pulls the blackened blade from the fire, and hands it back to Brinya.
--
The air is somber as the ceremony finishes, and the crowd slowly disperses. They all want to continue in their remembrance. Its hard to imagine, just a few days ago they were gathered together celebrating Lord Markelhays daughter, Romero pulling on the tug of war team, and now they are mourning his loss. It is with these thoughts in their head that the townsfolk of Fallcrest make their way from the Flame of the Fallen and back through town to their homes.
And I assume Thistle, Lem, and Zashier find each other in the crowd? and Yokini is still in the basement of the Temple...
Lem, after returning and watching the rest of the ceremony, performs the mage cadre's memorial salute for fallen soldiers: a lone fire bolt into the sky in a very high arc, off toward the horizon. Then, looking at Brinya, another (green? blue?) hued fire bolt, spiraling around the still-fading line left by the first.
After the ceremony he finds the group, toting his backpack which seems much heavier than it did before. "You have a lovely singing voice, Zashier. I didn't find any sign of Skreed. Either he's gone to ground, he looks like someone new, or he's gone. Can we let Markelhay know there's a bastard in his town plotting with an army to destroy it now? And then I'd like to head back to 'Ini and drown our sorrows for the night."
Thistle stays where she is, so she can watch the departing crowd (Bireal) more carefully, knowing Lem saw her and knows where she is, letting the others come to her.
"Yes, Markelhay was here, right? We should let them know, now that we have Daktani safe." She looks for Commander Grath, Bireal, and Markelhay.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he). Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
As the sun sinks below the horizon, the peaceful evening is shattered by the brazen calls of signal horns. Shouts and screams from the town’s lower quarter join the clamor, followed by a crash as an airborne boulder smashes into one of the guard towers. Fallcrest is under attack!
When the raid begins, the solemn atmosphere at the Flame of the Fallen transforms into a chaotic race to prepare Fallcrest for attack and protect its citizens. Patrol Captain Jagrin Grath, who moments before was mourning his son, immediately rallies the nearby guards and and Omast Frum staggers forward from the crowd to take command of the town militia to repel the invaders (Omast looks like he has been drinking a bit too much as he mourns the loss of his friend). Those residents capable of fighting stop what they are doing and head to the walls, while the town leaders hurry noncombatant townsfolk into the Moonstone Keep (area C) for safety, as it is the largest, safest building in town.
Zashier, you dont know where Yashiera and your mom are. You saw them at the ceremony, but they have been lost in the pandemonium of everyone running around trying to get to safety or fortify the militia.
Bireal, who had run off to with the other guards at the ceremony, extricates herself and approaches Zashier. Bireal says "Zashier, I need you once again. You have cleared my brothers memory, and I thank you for that, but now I need you and your friends once again. We are headed to the wall. I need you and the others to light the beacons (the beacons that are kept in readiness in various locations around town in case of a raid) I must assemble other militia members to thwart the attack. You and Thistle and the others will be able to move more quickly. Please Zashier, do this for me! Direct any townsfolk you see to the Keep (Moonstone Keep, area C) to take refuge, or if you think they can fight, send them to the wall to rally with the other defenders! and she runs off to join the other militia guards, heading for Lower Fallcrest where the attack seems to have broken through the wall.
--
Yokini is at the temple (area A), and all you hear is a crash above you. Not the temple, but something has been shattered. You are locked in with Daktani. He looks at you, fear in his eyes. All he says is "It has started. She must have been impatient."
--
Thistle, you see the boulder come flying in and crash into one of the towers. You lose sight of Bireal as everyone scatters, but quickly rescan and see her with the guards, then pulling herself away to speak with Zashier.
Lem is with Zashier.
The three if you are in area I
--
Tabletalk:
The instructions are simple. You must light the beacons at three key locations around town: the Commons beacon (area J), the Elevator beacon (area K), and the Hopespring beacon (area M). The Flame of the Fallen (area I) is already lit from Rodrik’s funeral, but if the Fallcrestians are to have a chance in this fight in the dark, the other beacons must be lit as well. Your secondary objective is to secure as many areas as possible as you make your way to the beacons. While slaying orcs is helpful, it’s even more important to rescue townsfolk from danger. Send them to the Moonstone Keep (Area C) for safety.
Thistle allows herself a small sigh before springing into action. She rushes to join Zashier and Lem, just missing Bireal as she heads off. Catching up with the plan, she asks, "Am I right in thinking the closest is the Commons? We should go there first?"
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ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he). Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
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"Lem," Thistle starts, trying to soothe him. "Remember, Skreed is here to find something. Their army, whatever it is, is not ready to march, they need this... item. Maybe it is a symbol for them to rally around, or maybe even some item of power. But an invasion is not imminent. Our best bet for finding Skreed is to get his description in front of as many of the guard as we can, and our best bet for doing that is to get Lord Markelhay on our side, so that the Commander sees it as reasonable. We *do* need to do it quickly, I agree, but we also need to use our heads. I know you understand that."
It seems Lem is determined to go ahead and leave, but Thistle hopes some of that she says will stick with him and temper his actions.
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he).
Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
Lem's eye fix on Thistle, and he slowly nods, gears turning in his head. "You may be speaking sense. Thank you... for listening. Perhaps Yokini will return soon but let us go find Markelhay before this service so we're not caught off guard by anything Skreed's planning when everyone is distracted."
Thistle smiles at having gotten through to the dwarf. “Tyari sent a monk, but it *has* been an hour. I’ll wait here with Daktani if you still want to go. Just be back in time for Romero’s ceremony, it would be a shame for you to miss it.”
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he).
Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
Sure, Yokini will go to the sanctuary when she's done to report on what she found. If it coincides with the memorial, that's up to the DM to decide.
Though Zashier had readied to depart with Lem last, with Thistle's point made about Nobles and his own expectation's supporting it, wrong or right though they might've been, he couldn't help but breath a small sigh of relief in a messenger being sent in their stead. Though moments later some of Lem's antsy seemed to rub off on the elephantine man, he squeezed his eyes shut, and brushed a hand along the trunk until calmed once more.
Goodbyes are said, a great big hug given, but once Yashiera was on her way, the only thing remained was to wait. During the initial wait, Zashier would approach Daktani once more, inviting whether than letting a moment's urgency compel him towards interrogations. If accepted however, little to nothing of the topics broached by Zashier has anything to do with the present at all, but about Daktani himself and the plight of the half-orcs in every aspect the man could think of when it came to fallcrest. There are times as well as went into the topic of friends made, other hops Daktani might've had, other things that might naturally come out of a heart to heart. Knowing to some extent how much of a talker he himself could be as well, Zashier in some ways restrained himself, but in others had been truly content to just listen.
But closer to the end of that hour, one thought would steadily return to former man.
He still had yet to go visit the body of Romero. Alone. To see his brother from another mother (or so they sometimes joked) in his current state. So, it was unless lured away from conversing with Daktani or sitting somewhere else in the Sanctuary, that he would have no part in any further talks of seeking the Lord again. And if he had been at some point, he just absentmindedly nodded in agreement with Thistle, but didn't seem to be all there until her last suggestion. "... I... need to take a walk myself. Get some fresh air, 'n all that. So, uh, lead on, Mr. Lem. I'll be right behind you."
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Lem and Zashier head out in search of Lord Markelhay, making their way through upper Fallcrest to the opposite side where Moonstone Keep is. There is a bit of a hold up at the front gate as the guards are enamored by the Heroes of Fallcrest, but they do finally let you in after some parchments are autographed and whatnot.
You make your way inside only to find the monk that had been sent with the message earlier. He informs you that he was unable to find Lord Markelhay, but had been detained in the keep...but he is hesitant to say why. If pushed about why he was detained, you notice his hair seems disheveled, and the buttons of his overshirt are....off by one, as if he dressed hastily. Not knowing all the details of the message, he was not aware of the urgency of your discussion with Lord Markelhay. He had an afternoon rendezvous with one of Lord Markelhay's daughters while he was there to deliver the message and the Lord was unable to be found.
After he finished...whatever he was doing...he was able to find out that Lord Markelhay was actually out visiting with Bireal and Commander Jagrin Grath about Romero.
You both make your way back to the Sanctuary, along with a few dozen other folks heading that direction, for the ceremony. It is obvious Romero had quite an impact on this community. Yokini comes not far behind you, all of you arriving in time for the ceremony to start.
Thistle comes out to meet you in the crowd, and shortly after behind her a solemn Tyari Varvados, the High Priestess, leads a processional out the door. Behind her several monks from the temple have a makeshift palette, held on their shoulders, the body of Romero in repose atop the palette, arms folded, face at peace.
The crowd parts to make way for the procession, then falls in step behind. (you can be wherever you want in the crowd - totally up to you where you fall in)
Jagrin Grath and Bireal and Salazar are ushered to the front of the following crowd, directly behind the body. Brinya slowly makes her way through the crowd as they walk, being sure to stay close to the body of her beloved, but being sure to stay behind Jagrin and the family.
The procession winds its way North, a solemn column of Fallcrestians, bound by their determination and grit and their history together in this town. They have defended it side by side, shoulder to shoulder, and now one of their own has fallen.
In case you are keeping a lookout for any of the images Lem has been able to conjure, no need to roll perception. You dont see anyone matching that description in this crowd.
You continue North to the Flame of the Fallen (see map in World Building Document - in case you dont have it, https://www.notion.so/davesteele/Fallcrest-025fa4d990fa48dfb5f086e5a33f4466) where a large Pyre has been built. There isnt room to bury the dead in town, and out of concern for orcs in the surrounding area desecrating their remains, Fallcrest's dead are burned in a pyre here; this pyre also serves as one of the beacons in town that are lit during times of siege, to alert other settlements in the area of danger and the need for help.
Tonight the pyre will be used to consume a fallen comrade.
The procession arrives, and the body is laid atop the pyre, and Tyari asks if anyone would like to speak on behalf of the fallen...
Thistle will not have left the Sanctuary without a discussion with Tyari or her people about the protection of Daktani. Clearly, the half-orc cannot come to the funeral. But Thistle will be inclined to stay behind if she is not satisfied that he will be well protected (and prevented from leaving if he decided to do so). If it comes to it, she would rather miss the ceremony than leave the witness alone.
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he).
Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
Tyari discusses the situation with you and Daktani. She offers the basement area where they keep the bodies, and will lock him down there. Daktani is visibly shaken at this, but with some reassurance that you will return for him and he will not be left there to die seems to calm him. If it is ok with you, Tyari will lock him in the basement with 2 monks standing guard.
Thistle will question the monks lightly, using her Ear for Deception, but ends up satisfied. She *does* want to be there, since it will be an important moment for Bireal, even though she plans to keep her distance.
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he).
Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
Lem is very frustrated not to be able to find Markelhay, but returns to the Sanctuary. He asks the group before they begin leaving, "should I go out and look around town for Skreed while everyone's at the funeral? It might be the perfect time to find him. That seems like a fair memorial to a fallen warrior -- finding his killer hiding in his town."
Yokini, seeing Thistle's worry and frustration, volunteers to stay with Daktani. "I don't remember Romero, or if we even met during the war. I know your friend would appreciate you being there to hold her hand." The gray-haired gnome gives Thistle a kind, motherly smile, encouraging her to not worry and to go to the ceremony.
Yokini allows herself to be locked up with the half-orc. If he seems apprehensive about her, she'll give him a disarming smile. "Don't worry there, bucko. I'm not going to hurt you." She lifts her gloved hand and wiggles her fingers. "Don't get me wrong. I can put on the hurt when I need to." She smiles a humorous grin and lowers her hand. "So, I don't think I introduced myself," she says, sitting down. "I'm Yokini Nackle. I'm a doctor. I live here in Fallcrest. My sister and her family run an inn and tavern here in town. We used to live west of here, but the orcs —" She suddenly stops talking and cuts her eyes toward Daktani. "Well, we don't need to talk about that, do we?" She looks at the floor and swings her legs in awkward silence.
While not one to press, Zashier's recent 'awakening' into the world of being observant made it harder to ignore the dishevelness of the monk. Thus, only due to concern regarding the monk perhaps having been intercepted and roughed up by some supposed "guard" meant pushing more than usual. The news given is such, that a very furiously blushing Zashier would simply nod slowly, try to effect a look of disappointment, but then failed to as 'rendezvous' resurfaced in mind.
In any case, whenever they would return to the Sanctuary and Lem made the suggestion, Zashier just faintly smiled. "That would be one, if albeit a risky one. I would accompany you, but-..." He trailed off for a moment, and just looks towards whatever last minute preparations might be going on in the temple. He then bows his head for a moment, before slowly nodding at a thought. "I'm not much for wiles, or not nearly as much as Romero used to be. But, he'd probably say something like this could just be a perfect distraction for someone like Skreed, so... do what you think would be best, I guess, and be safe." He replied to Lem.
If there's nothing more to discuss prior to the ceremony, when its time, Zashier is closer to the back of the procession, not wanting to deny any fellow Fallcrestians a view. At least, that is what Zashier would tell himself. Just as he told himself that he needed to keep more than just an eye out for Skreed, disguised or not, but on the Fallcrestians. Searching for any signs of a similar incident as the Lord's keep. An impossible task, more than likely, and yet... such things were the distractions sought by a desperate elephantine man seeking to delay take his mind off current events.
But eventually they reach the pyre, and eventually -- though at least after anyone else wished, he would make his way forward to speak...
(If able to have taken a short rest during the waiting period)
--> SR Healing(2): 16.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Thistle is glad to let Yokini stay with Daktani, and even squeezes the gnomes hand in a sign of affection as she departs. "Thank you, Yokini."
She is, as always, on her guard during the procession, watching the people, especially the ones who are also watching the people. She'll nod in acknowledgment to any of the guards on duty tonight who meet her eyes. Once nearer to the end, she has trouble taking her eyes off Bireal, but she does not get close. Once the procession has stopped, she'll find a vantage point a little higher than most (she's shortish) so she can see clearly what is going on. (And just maybe so Bireal can see that she is there.)
She has no intention of saying anything during the ceremony.
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he).
Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
With a short rest, 2 HD for 3 healing, and also a second level spell slot back from arcane recovery.
"Yokini, can you tell me where you saw the graffiti? Maybe Skreed will be around them. I'm going hunting. Carefully. I'll come back to catch the last bits of the memorial, whether I find something or not."
Lem'll take ten minutes to ritually cast unseen servant, and then let Yokini and Thistle (and Zashier before he headed to the funeral) know that he was heading out into town, casting invisibility and having Moon trail above him, rooftop to rooftop, toggling into her head from time to time. The unseen servant would just trail invisibly behind him as he walked, ready to help cause a distraction or do something he didn't want to do while invisible. And he'll walk as much of the town as he could, 30-40 minutes.
He'd gotten to know the place fairly well, but there were certainly places he didn't know. But he'd be suspicious of anything he saw, anyone who wasn't at the funeral. Any sign of Skreed or someone up to no good. Romero had been through some of the same trials Lem had, and deserved memorialization, and justice, but most of all memory. He deserved memory. Lem hadn't forgotten the man, even though they hadn't crossed paths much in the war. He hoped to uncover some of the mystery, while those better at talking to people did he talking and listening and socially agile things.
There's an initial nervousness that besets Zashier while making his way forward. A guilt that weighed on the conscious with every step, as his last moments with the man played again in mind. Knowing the elphantine man had the tendency to goof up even the most serious of moments at time, none would've been surprised had he got just close enough to the front as if to seem one way, only to duck off to the side; giving those that paid him any mind at first a sheepish grin. Yet, this did not occur, and before long the elephantine man is close enough to meet the family of Romero's eyes, asking silently for final permission.
For while Tyari, the high priestess, had already given it, it is the families that mattered more to him in that moment. Once given, he took up whatever spot Tyari motioned for a speaker, straightened out his back, and cleared his throat. "Evening everyone. The names Zashier Zaltomane, on the off chance you didn't know. And if didn't, well, now you do." He stated, giving his best disarming smile, before then letting it drop naturally into a more solemn one.
"Those that know me well enough know I'm a... I tend to go off a wee bit on tangents whenever I speak. So, for all our sakes, I'll... you know, avoid that... Me and Romero, before I became what I am in ever since in the world.. we grew up together. So, it should come as no surprise then that over time we became like brothers. Ones who would go to the Ninez and back for each other. Certainly something he proved during the war. Though back then, that feeling expanded to all that stood beside us, as a number of you can attest to. I'd even go so far as to say he was more of Hero of Fallcrest than I ever was or been claimed to be. Because he never stopped looking out for others, and this place we called home." He paused for a moment, looking over the gathering and letting the words sink in.
"That isn't to say he wasn't without his flaws, as we all are. With so many looking up to him or towards him expecting a certain way of things, there comes a weight thats hard to ignore, you know... Yet, he preserved though, as he always had, and in time-..." Zashier trailed off nodding more to himself than anyone. "... Even though he has gone off to a better realm, that doesn't mean he isn't watching out for us still. Or that anything he's accomplish is destined to end in ash. For we all carry a bit of Romero with us, to inspire us in our darkest moments, to give us strength to see our ambitions through, and.. well, you all the rest." He smiled. "With that said, and as final send off for my friend, I'd like to... like to pass along one of his more musical creations before poems became a bit of a thing for him."
Again, Zashier clears his throat, and if not stopped at this point for speaking for a bit too long, which subconsciously worried him, the elephantine man began in a resonant tone a bittersweet song from the days of the war. "It's time to strap our boots on. This is the perfect day to die. Wipe the blood out of our eyes~ In this life there's no surrender. There's nothing left for us to do. Find the strength to see this through~ We~ Are the ones who will never be broken. With our final breath, whe'll fight ot death-..." And on he sung, intending to end after a few more verses. But, if the crowd -- those within it that remembered it from the first and only time it was sung during the quieter moments of the defense -- took upt he song as well, he would continue having been inspired.
(S/N: Attuning to the Staff of Healing as part of the SR)
"Romero's" Song/Inspiration for the final bit:
Soldiers by Otherwise
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Yokini, in a kind gesture, stays behind with Daktani, locked up with him in the basement of the sanctuary. Daktani at first looks a bit concerned at this new development, but as you settle into comfortable conversation, his nerves are put a bit more at ease. Your talk dissolves into uncomfortable silence, for both of you - neither one interested in making further conversation.
--
Lem, seeking to find Skreed and possibly avoid any awkardness at the ceremony, sets off invisibly into the city, Moon drifting from updraft to updraft overhead in slow, lazy circles above Lem as he makes his way through the streets to where Yokini told him she found the paint.
With it being evening, and darkness beginning to creep into the sky, Lem is able to make his way quietly through the city without being noticed. Many citizens are still at their homes or places of business, as not everyone knew Romero, or perhaps was not a fan of the Grath family. Whatever reason they had, folks still drifted through town, finishing up dinner or locking up their business, heading home after a long, but average day.
Though it had only been a few days since the murder, the town seems to have quickly gotten back to normal. Just like all humans do - they seek out normalcy when suddenly meeting something so unexpected.
Lem, you make your way to a few of the spots mentioned to you by Yokini, but you do not see any orcs or half-orcs at these location. You dont know if they found a new place, or are using a different marker now, but none of the graffiti spots seem to garner any special orc-ish attention. Moon confirms as much, flying over the town, there doesnt seem to be any activity out of the ordinary within the Fallcrestian walls.
Dejected by your lack of discovery, you slowly make your way back to the ceremony.
--
Thistle, you make your way inconspicuously to the top of a nearby cart, being sure to keep a bird eye view on the ceremony. Zashier, you stick around near the back, believing it is because you dont want to block anyones view...knowing there is a deeper meaning to your choice.
The family makes their way to the front of the ceremony. When Tyari offers the floor to anyone who wants to speak on behalf of Romero, a few of the guards step up and say a few words. In typical brutish fashion, they muddle their way through a few words, trying (one or two failing) to avoid being crass. They are saddened by the loss of their brother-in-arms, and so they hide behind the false bravado of soldier-ly might.
A few others from around town step up and say a few words.
Zashier, unable to wait any longer, makes his way through the crowd to the front, where he waits his turn to speak.
Seeing Zashier move through the crowd seems to have emboldened one of the watchers, who make their way through the crowd as well....Brinya Kelver comes to stand behind Zashier.
Zashier is finally able to get in front of the crowd, and his words are moving. The crowd echoes the sentiments said about Romero, and when he goes into song, there are easily a dozen or so voices from the crowd that join in singing with you.
--
Lem, you make your way up to the ceremony during the song. You catch Thistle's eye, and shake your head letting her know you were unable to find Skreed.
--
Once the song is finished, there is a bit of a hush over the crowd as everyone is lost in their thoughts, thinking about ones they have loved and lost in this battle-torn land, but it is not sadness in their faces - it is pride in their fellow Fallcrestians, it is a resolute strength ingrained in every man, woman, and child with a Hope Knife.
Bireal asks you to stay with them, at the front...and slowly, from where you were standing earlier, Brinya Kelver steps up. She is not facing the crowd, she is facing Jagrin, as if waiting to see what his next move will be.
Jagrin takes a deep breath, looks to Bireal and Salazaar, and yes even to Zashier, then he steps forward, moving toward Brinya. When he gets in front of her, Zashier you can see this battle-hardened warrior is shedding several tears as he opens his arms and embraces Brinya. There is an audible gasp from the crowd, but this does not stop them. He whispers something in her ear, then steps back so she can step forward to say a few words.
Brinya: As many of you may have heard, Romero and I were engaged. To many of you he was a protector, to others a friend. To me, he was my world - my sun, moon, and stars. When he looked at me, I knew that despite how I felt invisible for so many years, I was not invisible to him. In his gaze, the hate and derision washed away, and I was renewed. She turns to face the body on the pyre I will forever miss you my love, my tender warrior, my Romero.
She steps back to offer the speaking place to Jagrin, but he is choked up and unable to speak. He motions for Tyari to continue with the ceremony.
Several monks pull lit torches from a small fire barrel, and hand one to Jagrin, one to Bireal, one to Salazaar, and one more to Zashier (likely this is why Bireal wanted you to stay - she wanted to honor your relationship with Romero by letting you be a part of the process), and each of you takes a position on the corner of the pyre, and in unison, touch your torches to the pyre.
As it goes up in flame, Tyari steps up and address the crowd:
We’re here to say goodbye to our brother and friend Romero. Do not lose heart, do not lose faith. Have hope.
and as she says "have hope" she holds out her hand, and Brinya hands her Romero's Hope Knife, which Tyari takes and holds aloft, then moves and plunges the knife into the flame to requench the blade , the metal is heated and turns black. She consecrates the Flame of the Fallen with some herbs and other items, and pulls the blackened blade from the fire, and hands it back to Brinya.
--
The air is somber as the ceremony finishes, and the crowd slowly disperses. They all want to continue in their remembrance. Its hard to imagine, just a few days ago they were gathered together celebrating Lord Markelhays daughter, Romero pulling on the tug of war team, and now they are mourning his loss. It is with these thoughts in their head that the townsfolk of Fallcrest make their way from the Flame of the Fallen and back through town to their homes.
And I assume Thistle, Lem, and Zashier find each other in the crowd? and Yokini is still in the basement of the Temple...
Lem, after returning and watching the rest of the ceremony, performs the mage cadre's memorial salute for fallen soldiers: a lone fire bolt into the sky in a very high arc, off toward the horizon. Then, looking at Brinya, another (green? blue?) hued fire bolt, spiraling around the still-fading line left by the first.
After the ceremony he finds the group, toting his backpack which seems much heavier than it did before. "You have a lovely singing voice, Zashier. I didn't find any sign of Skreed. Either he's gone to ground, he looks like someone new, or he's gone. Can we let Markelhay know there's a bastard in his town plotting with an army to destroy it now? And then I'd like to head back to 'Ini and drown our sorrows for the night."
Thistle stays where she is, so she can watch the departing crowd (Bireal) more carefully, knowing Lem saw her and knows where she is, letting the others come to her.
"Yes, Markelhay was here, right? We should let them know, now that we have Daktani safe." She looks for Commander Grath, Bireal, and Markelhay.
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he).
Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.
As the sun sinks below the horizon, the peaceful evening is shattered by the brazen calls of signal horns. Shouts and screams from the town’s lower quarter join the clamor, followed by a crash as an airborne boulder smashes into one of the guard towers. Fallcrest is under attack!
When the raid begins, the solemn atmosphere at the Flame of the Fallen transforms into a chaotic race to prepare Fallcrest for attack and protect its citizens. Patrol Captain Jagrin Grath, who moments before was mourning his son, immediately rallies the nearby guards and and Omast Frum staggers forward from the crowd to take command of the town militia to repel the invaders (Omast looks like he has been drinking a bit too much as he mourns the loss of his friend). Those residents capable of fighting stop what they are doing and head to the walls, while the town leaders hurry noncombatant townsfolk into the Moonstone Keep (area C) for safety, as it is the largest, safest building in town.
Zashier, you dont know where Yashiera and your mom are. You saw them at the ceremony, but they have been lost in the pandemonium of everyone running around trying to get to safety or fortify the militia.
Bireal, who had run off to with the other guards at the ceremony, extricates herself and approaches Zashier. Bireal says "Zashier, I need you once again. You have cleared my brothers memory, and I thank you for that, but now I need you and your friends once again. We are headed to the wall. I need you and the others to light the beacons (the beacons that are kept in readiness in various locations around town in case of a raid) I must assemble other militia members to thwart the attack. You and Thistle and the others will be able to move more quickly. Please Zashier, do this for me! Direct any townsfolk you see to the Keep (Moonstone Keep, area C) to take refuge, or if you think they can fight, send them to the wall to rally with the other defenders! and she runs off to join the other militia guards, heading for Lower Fallcrest where the attack seems to have broken through the wall.
--
Yokini is at the temple (area A), and all you hear is a crash above you. Not the temple, but something has been shattered. You are locked in with Daktani. He looks at you, fear in his eyes. All he says is "It has started. She must have been impatient."
--
Thistle, you see the boulder come flying in and crash into one of the towers. You lose sight of Bireal as everyone scatters, but quickly rescan and see her with the guards, then pulling herself away to speak with Zashier.
Lem is with Zashier.
The three if you are in area I
--
Tabletalk:
The instructions are simple. You must light the beacons at three key locations around town: the Commons beacon (area J), the Elevator beacon (area K), and the Hopespring beacon (area M). The Flame of the Fallen (area I) is already lit from Rodrik’s funeral, but if the Fallcrestians are to have a chance in this fight in the dark, the other beacons must be lit as well. Your secondary objective is to secure as many areas as possible as you make your way to the beacons. While slaying orcs is helpful, it’s even more important to rescue townsfolk from danger. Send them to the Moonstone Keep (Area C) for safety.
Thistle allows herself a small sigh before springing into action. She rushes to join Zashier and Lem, just missing Bireal as she heads off. Catching up with the plan, she asks, "Am I right in thinking the closest is the Commons? We should go there first?"
ey/em/eirs, or they/them works, too (just not he).
Role-playing since that keep on those borderlands. I love it so.