Ryona acknowledges Noah's request with an unapologetic nod. As Master Feywing speaks, she smiles, facing her. She almost protests when she claims the task of cleaning things up. Realizing it would probably be her magic servants doing the work, she gets swept up in the moment and turns back to Noah. Brow furrowed in concentration of her power, she still smiles and speaks with the slight echoing effect of magic at work. "Feel better, Noah." she commands. The empowering force immediately shines softly over the tight binding on his leg, the pain of the bite disappearing almost as fast as she speaks his name. ((Healing Word, 8 HP healed for Noah, as per previous post.)) This is the first time she's used her magic to heal anyone since she got here- perhaps just now dispelling the doubt that she could, in fact, heal with magic. Despite that, offers no explanation as she sweeps up her pack and light on her feet, almost skips out of the room, her chain mail jangling loudly. Before anyone leaves, she makes a suggestion to everyone. "Let's celebrate our first victory tonight."
Once settled back into her usual attire a half hour later, she spends the next hour painting the scene on parchment at the table where she finishes her breakfast, starting with a drawing. Jarnick coming to Noah's aid. Falenas balancing on the barricade as he fires his Eldritch Blast. Yevele knocking a rat off it's feet with her staff in an upward sweep. Noah with his wand raised with blue wisps circling around it. Malfearance leveling his staff at a rat. Ryona about to backswing her mace at the rat. And lastly, she depicts Elaria watching them at the side of the painting, arms crossed, head raised. She uses as few colors as she can get away with, focusing on shading and proportions on the characters. She focuses on it in her usual manner, talking little.
After, she exercises lightly on her own, prays in the middle of the day and wanders nearby, spends some time in her room, then prepares for the small party. She'll round everyone up for the small celebration just after sundown.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ryona Perception (Painter's Supplies): 11
"Go enjoy yourself for awhile, Jarnick, there won't be many more opportunities for that while I'm training you," Elaria shoos the party away.
Noah heads to his room to rest for awhile, his wound fully healed by Ryona, who gets to work painting an accurate depiction of the day's battle.
OOC: As deduced in the OOC thread, we have a moment to close out this scene before taking a long rest. How does the party spend the rest of the day they have off? Once it looks like the RP is wrapping up, I'll advance further.
Falenas is content that they could finish the task without major issues, but he's not as glad as some others. "Thanks master" is the only thing that he says before promptly going to his room.
He joins the celebration, but he keeps the quiet demeanor that you saw in him in the first days of training. If asked, he'll just say "It's nothing, I'm just glad that we passed our first test". Unless actively stopped, he will go back early to his room.
Yevele was feeling more relief than exhultation at the completion of the battle. She bows to The Master in appreciation for the compliment, but, mutters quietly on her way up the stairs "We got lucky, only Mal was prepared for the rats to attack as soon as we opened the door. And, our battle formation was horrible. Letting Noah lead us into battle could be a disastrous mistake in the future." After leaving the basement, Yevele headed up to her room to meditate and then went down to join the others in the celebration. During the celebration, she is more quiet than usual, and will join Falenas in the early departure club.
OOC: What Yevele is trying to say is that an unarmored magic-user should not be in the front of their battle formation, but, as she is socially inept, I'm trying to make her say it in a way that others might find insulting. She doesn't mean it that way, but, she does have a habit of putting her foot in her mouth.
Maelfearance listens silently as Elaria gives her assessment of the battle and the actions of the group. He stands unmoving as the rest of his companions react and take off while he contemplates The Master's words. As he finally leaves the basement he says "It was a first step," to his teacher and casts a couple Prestidigitation on his way out to assist in cleaning up some of the rat blood.
As he walks the grounds after he discusses the events with his wife, reviewing all that had happened and their thoughts. He talks quietly, as is his nature, but makes no efforts to hide the fact. If he happened past where anyone was and/or if anyone tried to listen they would, of course, hear only his side of the discussion. If they tried to follow the discussion at all they would easily pick up the fact that Maelfearance was casually deflecting praise being given by his wife of his and the groups actions, instead Maelfearance was of the mind that they had acted adequately but not overly impressively, that he believed The Master was a bit free with her praise but it was likely that the young ones would garner as much confidence from said praise as from the victory.
Early on in his walk, Maelfearance took Rat out of the hidden pocket in his robe and released him onto the ground to do rat things. Over and above foraging for food and other typical rat practices, Rat poked his nose silently and unobtrusively into where everyone else was and what they were up to. Just checking on them, not spying or actively watching.
When Ryona comes and tells him of the celebration, he gives a slow nod of acknowledgement and will turns to his left. "Shall we, my dear?" he asks the empty space there and they head out toward the gathering.
"It is a lovely art," Maelfearance says to Ryona. "My dearest wife thanks you for making me look so heroic."
Mael will then stay on the outskirts of the revelry, present but only partaking as much as required to be polite. He is quite happy the watch the young ones celebrate and be happy while he himself enjoys a comfortable chair, a warm spot in the room, and pleasant conversation with his wife...
Agreeing vigorously with Ryona that a bit of revelry is in order (when is it not?), Noah indulges himself in the selection of arcane texts that he has accrued in his quarters for a couple of hours, before removing the bandage and examining what remains of his wound. He discards the used bandage, and thinks it wise to have a solid meal before the celebration. The sorcerer finds himself a lunch, and eats it in the dining hall. He observes Ryona painting, amused by the depiction of himself in the battle with the fiendish rodents. Noah compliments her art, and then departs to practice his spellcasting until the celebration.
If he passes Jarnick on the way there, he will thank him for the actions he took during the battle. "I got overconfident, I should have let you or Ryona take the lead,"He laments. "You were there for me, though. Thank you, Jarnick." Noah then informs Jarnick of his plans to casually practice his battle-casting, and invites him to join him if he so wishes.
During the celebration, Noah acts amiably and asserts himself at the center of the festivities. He remains immersed in conversation with anybody willing until the end of the night, enjoying the drink and company as he is known to. He tells humorous stories when apt, using Minor Illusion to illustrate his words.
When Rat appeared near Ryona, she hadn't noticed. At first, she had been uncertain of the critter, but now accepts it as Malfearance's loyal pet.
During the small celebration, Ryona's usual stiffness erodes with a drink. She joins the center with Noah, often asking those at the fringe what they thought- or what they would expect in their coming adventures, not intent on keeping them, but genuinely wanting to them to speak their mind with everyone. After a couple rounds of this, she flushes up, taking a deep breath before standing to speak. Her voice shakes.
"I really wanted to say this with everyone together... I'm glad you guys are here with me. All of you- when I came, I thought everyone would be bulky, or... really fancy... all tough, strange and mystical beyond understanding."She takes another deep breath, but her trembling only intensifies. "I believe what Elana said. I believe in us. We might not be the strongest, smartest, or fastest, but we have what's far more important- a bond and a desire to protect each other."
She puts a closed hand on her breast, finally calming a little. She closes her eyes, taking another deep breath. She looks to Noah first as she continues, looking to everyone in turn. "I really think that is what makes us the best students to have been in the last hundred years. No matter where we are or who we're with, that is true strength. Belief in one another, and the bravery to aid each other. Ha... ha... sorry, I'm preaching again... you can leave the prayers to me, I promise. You guys see that, though, don't you?"
She sits quickly after a short moment of silence before anyone responds, burying her face with her hands a moment while listening.
Realizing Noah was still in pain, “Come on, let me help you walk.” Jarnick offered him a hand but then Ryona came in and healed Noah, Jarnick's eyes slightly widens, as this is the first time Ryona had shown her ability, finally knowing what she is capable of, adds more in his admiration to her. Jarnick looks at the now recovered Noah, seeing him no longer needing aid, he retracts his hand into a wave, grins at Noah, “Never mind, you can walk now.”He ran back to the main building into the library and finds a book about tactics, he is affected by how things unfold and Yevele’s comment, also the fact that he wants to train his villagers fighting, he thinks reading some book about tactics would be beneficial for the near and the distance future. He then come back to the celebrate, hiding the book for the moment, reacting to Noah, “Yeah…We should be more aware next time. It’s nothing, you would have done the save for me…right?” when asked to participate in practice, “That isn’t even a question, Noah, you know I will take any chance to train, and training with someone is even better, just let me know when.”After that he listens to Ryona’s speech, he merely nods with a smile, not knowing how to respond. Jarnick enjoys a night of revelry, this is the first in six months that he could really mentally relax.
"So long as we are a team and working together, we shall only get better and better," Maelfearance says from across the room and then goes back to studying a small tome.
"Agreed," Noah says to Malfearance, tipping his glass in the air towards the man in acknowledgement. "We function as a group, and we will triumph."
Glancing around for a couple moments, Noah continues: "Not to be repetitive, but there's no shame here. We're a community, and we shouldn't let anything petty get in the way of our group cohesion." He takes a long swig of ale, wiping his mouth on his sleeve.
Noah remains until the night winds down, likely one of the very last to leave (fairly drunkenly) to his quarters for a rest. He jokes with Jarnick about his harrowing encounter with an oversized rat, asks Yevele of the technique she displayed with her staff, solemnly tells Ryona of his appreciation for her speech and empathy, does not speak much to Malfearance, and talks with Falenas of arcane matters.
Welcome to Parabor, a frontier village of diverse miners and adventurers. This community's economy is fueled by silver in the Cairgon Ranges, mithral in the Icebound Peaks, and explorers like those trained by The Master who scout the Merriam Vale for treasure.
The Cairgon Ranges cut Parabor and the Merriam Vale off from the rest of the Kingdom of Skylark where King Raziel Fortwyth II rules a prosperous civilization. While the small village falls under his domain, he largely ignores it. Its operations are in the hands of Governess Judith Seagarten, who keeps a small guard and can raise a larger militia if any trouble comes to town. She lets the villagers keep to themselves, coming around with her guards once a year to collect taxes.
The dangerous jobs and remote location of Parabor attract more than miners and adventurers. Plenty of people running from something - whether it be the law, a shady past, or an angry ex-lover - come to Parabor for refuge from their previous life. This is a village where people ask where you're going, not where you're coming from.
Three days ago, Elaria Feywing, a renowned mentor to you and many famous adventurers, died. "The Master" was known throughout the Merriam Vale. You were her final pupils. The ancient elf who taught you secrets of combat, magic, and wilderness survival passed away in her sleep on the very night she informed you that your training was complete. You had barely begun to look for work as tried and true adventurers when news of her death came. Though The Master was over eight hundred years old, she was always lithe and energetic; it seemed she could have lived another eight centuries.
Per the instructions of her last will and testament, Elaria is being buried quickly in a simple ceremony. While many who live in Parabor came to see The Master laid to rest, you are her only students able to attend given the short notice. Golonna, the local dwarf priestess who runs The Holy Beacon, Parabor's temple to Lux, god of light, presides over the ceremony. Her words have blurred together, a cold rain matching the ambience of the grave moment, but you soon find her looking in your direction.
"...her final class of students. Please, would any of you say a few words about Elaria in eulogy, by sharing a favorite memory, or an unexpected lesson that she taught you?" she asks as the rest of the attendants look on.
Then the question tears Ryona away from somber thoughts. She shies in a small sway, looking to Noah as though expecting him to be prepared for that. A part of her demanded that she speak, but the crowd's attention made it hard to remember in that instant. The clash between resolve and fear make her heart pound, the tremble in her chest causing her to bring her hand up as though to make it stop. "There's no shame here," she says in a low voice.
In her mind, Elaria's memories seem a bright multicolored pool, blurred together in that moment. As though a giant reaching in, she runs her hands through them, images surfacing clearly for only an instant before fading into the others. She closes her eyes, nodding and focusing on the feeling of surprise. The pool becomes a light green, losing some of its intensity, but still bright. Elaria had plenty of mischievous moments. She inwardly smiled at the image of her as her eyes twinkled, the knowing smile eager to see revelation in her students. Ryona truly loved her leading puzzles, delighting in the anticipation Elaria had shown. Perhaps it was just meant for them- she always seemed to have that role as a mentor. Then her hand finds the memory just for this moment, reliving it as she pulls it out of the pool.
She's back in Elaria's library. Halfway pointing at the shelf in a slow sweep, she's looking for a reference. Falenas mentioned the book while talking about one of her ideas. She extends her hand to her quarry, taken aback when another hard covered book floats in front of it. She hesitates, then grabs the book. Flipping it over once, then back to the cover, she turns back to see Elaria now watching her from the opposite side of the room, sitting comfortably as she was with legs crossed. The book Elaria was reading, now closed on her lap with a long bookmark hanging from it. She smiles expectantly.
"You've worked hard to impress others, haven't you? Have some time for a book between all that laboring?"She looks down at the book in Ryona's hands.
"I do," Ryona answers both questions, pleased by the irony. "this book. 'Alchemist?' It's in elven. I can't-"
Elaria nods, the smile growing. "It was a sylvan story before anyone wrote it in elven."
Ryona's eyes widen, taking the book in both hands with sudden care. Sylvan speakers very rarely ever wrote books, making this worth far more than any other thing she held, second only to a baby. "I... I shouldn't...!"
She chuckles. "Read it in the original language? Of course you should. This book kept itself in one piece so that it may live at least one more time. I think we both can relate to it." She opens her book, still looking to Ryona. "And if the words spark in you, perhaps you can remake it before it is gone. Go ahead, give it a try."
Ryona swallows and opens her eyes. Still holding a hand to her chest and smiling with the memory, she nods to herself, ready to share it-
-when she realizes she had just done so as she recalled it in the moment. She flushes. Her eyes well up, and finishes, voice now trembling. "I feel so honored that she shared her time with us. I think she really loved to live, and I think she wanted to help as many people as she could to feel the same way."
Maelfearance stands stoically amongst the others, unmoving and appearing unmoved. "Death is not the end of life. It is not as if a life is wiped away like grime from a table or smut from a cloak. Life and death are both but segments of the greater pathway that we all tread. By dying Elaria Feywing may have left us but her deeds, actions and influence do not disappear from us or the world. While she graduates from one segment of the path to another she carries on here through those she has influenced.
"You are stronger as a team than as individuals," Maelfearance says quoting the Master. "Elaria Feywing knew we were individuals. Very different individuals. But part of her brilliance was not only knowing what we were, but what we could be. Slowly. Subtly. Inevitably. She molded us from just individuals into a cohesive unit. Into a team. Into a family. This was the gift of Elaria Feywing to us, and our gift needs to be to take that bond she forged and put it out into the world for the purpose she believed we could fulfill."
Jarnick is standing straight, he tightens his facial muscle stiffly, he is trying very hard to not let loose of his emotions. In the time frame of one year, he’d be through a lot, happy times, hard times, he remembers coming in not knowing much, Elaria trained him, taught him so much about the world, gave him all that he needed. He also remembers when the students were bonding together, she was always there smiling and watching, her mischievous, her encouragement, still vivid in his mind. He feels regret, he didn’t think she was going to be gone so soon, she opened a door to a new world in front of him, but he barely knows her. Jarnick refrains himself from thinking deeper, he opens his mouth, “She reminds me of my mother, in a way she was, providing, inspiring, helping us reach our potential…We will not, and I’m sure, put that to waste, we’ll honor her with what she taught us, she’ll not be ashamed.”
Falenas chuckles nervously when addressed, still partly in denial. "Master Feywing knew who we were from the beggining, but as Mael said she knew not only that, but also who we could be as individuals and as a team. Yes, she was mischievous and loved putting us in trouble, but she could also be so... caring and thoughtful". His voice trembles as the voice comes out from his mouth. As he stands watching the rain fall, a memory flashes in his head:
It was also raining that night, Falenas had just finished packing. After leaving a thank you note on his desk he reached for the door's handle, but before he could get it the door opened wide. "Where do you think you're going boy?"
"Master, I..."
Elaria sighs. "No need to explain, you have it written all over your face" Falenas notices that she carries a liquor bottle and two small glasses, as she pours she smiles and says "It's elven, don't tell the others. And drink up, it will calm you down". They both start drinking. "I know that you admire them, and you have reason to do so, they have so much potential. They look up to you as well, you know that, right?" Falenas stares at her silently. "You can leave if you want to, just stop trying so hard to impress others and start trying to make an impression in yourself. Remember that you could not do any of these things not so long ago, and you have taken great strides. You don't owe anything to anyone, not your family, not your comrades and certainly not to me. You can be great if you want to, and I think that deep down you know it too, after all, you were chosen for a reason. Now, promise me that you'll get stronger for yourself, not for anyone else."
"But..."
"Promise me!"Elaria interrupts
"I promise" Falenas says to himself as he looks to the coffin. After a pause, he looks to the rest of his companions, his eyes start showing resolve, he puts his hand over his heart and he says loudly "We'll make you proud Master Fe... Elaria"
Noah stares at the coffin for most of the early ceremony, his emotions unreadable from the blank expression plastered across his face. It could be read as him repressing emotion or a lack of care - in reality, he was trying to feel sorrow. Feywing was a good teacher (he never got comfortable using her first name, it felt too intimate to use liberally with such a prestigious instructor) and a kind heart, but despite Noah's respect for her legacy and character, he did not become as personally attached as some of the others. His empathetic side told him that it was not his fault, that he was more focused on his companions - another said that she had exhausted her usefulness.
He brought his mind away from this matter and quickly forced himself to don a convincing frown, softening his stare from one of consideration to one of wistful grief. The others seemed to regale the crowd with touching monologues - Noah did not planning to do so. He would speak striking and complimentary words on her behalf, and then disengage. A well acted and concise speech would be enough - the crowd would not be at their most insightful, clouded by grief.
As Falenas stepped down, Noah passed him with a meek nod of acknowlegement. He cleared his throat, surveying the crowd briefly.
"Master Feywing was a kind heart, a vigilant teacher, and an unwavering beacon of light for all classes she taught. It is truly a dark day that such a soul has moved on from this material coil, but I trust that she will find her place in the After with the great figures of her caliber. Do not despair that she has left us - she has passed on her infinite wisdom to us, the next generation. We will continue her legacy and honor her prestigious name. I have confidence that Elaria Feywing, as her dying action, has improved the lives of six more exponentially. Her memory will not go trampled by the merciless boots of time - we will preserve and share it, so the generations beyond may remember. Lest we forget."
With that, Noah steps down, glancing between his companions and assuming his previous demeanor as the proceeds continue. He nods solemnly and encouragingly to whoever goes next.
Yevele listened quietly to the words everyone else was saying, and thought about her own encounters with the Master. She was still in a bit of shock about the woman's death, but, also knew that seemingly healthy ancient monks would die suddenly. After Noah talks, Yevele stands up and takes a minute before speaking "Master Feywing was someone we could all look up to. She understood that all people have strengths and weaknesses and encourage us to look past a person's faults and see the good inside them. She understood that a true group of friends was more than the sum of its individuals. She worked to forge those bounds between her trainees."
As she finished, Yevele's thoughts flashed back to an incident shortly after the battle with the rats 'walking down the hallway near the Master's office, Yevele heard her talking "The young monk doesn't mean to be hurtful or harmful. She thinks she is helping you with constructive criticism, but, she is not as dexterous with words as she is with her staff."
Yevele turned and walked away at that point, not knowing who Master Feywing was talking to. In her subsequent interactions with Master Feywing, the young woman was sure that the Master knew Yevele was in the hallway. But, Yevele also was less critical of her companions, and tried to watch her words, sometimes unsuccessfully.'
Those in attendance look on stoically, hanging on every word; some smiling, some sobbing at the memories of the beloved elf.
The ceremony concludes, and the folk of Parabor slowly depart. Some go out of their way to approach and give their regards, but most walk out of The Holy Beacon with their heads hung low. Only one other remains as you exit The Holy Beacon: Yelsa Hedwick, Parabor's only solicitor. The middle-aged gnome woman approaches, pushing her half-moon spectacles further up her nose. She embraces you one by one (any who will return it), barely holding back hysterical tears.
"Ms. Feywing spoke fondly of all of you. In fact, you are all mentioned in her last will and testament. If you have time today, would you please stop by my office? I know it is a lot to ask...but..." Yelsa cannot finish her sentence, as the tears finally come. She holds her hands out in apology and walks away from you, honking into a handkerchief. "Please...stop by...later," she manages to get out through the tears.
Parabor Locations Known: Parabor Solicitor (Yelsa's office) The Holy Beacon (Shrine of Lux) Hinger's Hammer (Weapons/Armor) Pegleg Trading Port (Adventuring Gear) Quill and Stopper (Arcane Goods) The Rowdy Room (Inn/Tavern)
"Individually or as a group?" Malfearance will inquire before Ms. Hedwick departs but otherwise not delay her.
Maelfearance will otherwise do some window shopping at the Quill and Stopper, getting a feel of what they have to offer, a general sense of the prices and such. His coffers are empty so he'll be making no purchases at this time, just getting a general feel for the place. After that Maelfearance will find a comfortable place to loiter not too far from The Rowdy Room, someplace he can be more or less unobtrusive. He will discreetly release Rat and have them play spy, checking out the tavern, listening for gossip, seeing if there is anything interesting or profitable to learn.
Noah pitches in one or two gold pieces (depending on how much she needs) to Ryona, figuring that the purchase of a healing kit would benefit the group as a whole.
His expression demure as he watches Ms. Hedwick exit the venue, Noah turns to the members of the party that have not gone off alone. "Well, if anybody is in need of rations or other odds and ends this would be the time to speak up. I don't think many of us are in the mood to go shopping - I suggest we depart to Ms. Hedwick's office as soon as possible."
Ryona acknowledges Noah's request with an unapologetic nod. As Master Feywing speaks, she smiles, facing her. She almost protests when she claims the task of cleaning things up. Realizing it would probably be her magic servants doing the work, she gets swept up in the moment and turns back to Noah. Brow furrowed in concentration of her power, she still smiles and speaks with the slight echoing effect of magic at work. "Feel better, Noah." she commands. The empowering force immediately shines softly over the tight binding on his leg, the pain of the bite disappearing almost as fast as she speaks his name. ((Healing Word, 8 HP healed for Noah, as per previous post.)) This is the first time she's used her magic to heal anyone since she got here- perhaps just now dispelling the doubt that she could, in fact, heal with magic. Despite that, offers no explanation as she sweeps up her pack and light on her feet, almost skips out of the room, her chain mail jangling loudly. Before anyone leaves, she makes a suggestion to everyone. "Let's celebrate our first victory tonight."
Once settled back into her usual attire a half hour later, she spends the next hour painting the scene on parchment at the table where she finishes her breakfast, starting with a drawing. Jarnick coming to Noah's aid. Falenas balancing on the barricade as he fires his Eldritch Blast. Yevele knocking a rat off it's feet with her staff in an upward sweep. Noah with his wand raised with blue wisps circling around it. Malfearance leveling his staff at a rat. Ryona about to backswing her mace at the rat. And lastly, she depicts Elaria watching them at the side of the painting, arms crossed, head raised. She uses as few colors as she can get away with, focusing on shading and proportions on the characters. She focuses on it in her usual manner, talking little.
After, she exercises lightly on her own, prays in the middle of the day and wanders nearby, spends some time in her room, then prepares for the small party. She'll round everyone up for the small celebration just after sundown.
Ryona Perception (Painter's Supplies): 11
"Go enjoy yourself for awhile, Jarnick, there won't be many more opportunities for that while I'm training you," Elaria shoos the party away.
Noah heads to his room to rest for awhile, his wound fully healed by Ryona, who gets to work painting an accurate depiction of the day's battle.
OOC: As deduced in the OOC thread, we have a moment to close out this scene before taking a long rest. How does the party spend the rest of the day they have off? Once it looks like the RP is wrapping up, I'll advance further.
See my profile for all my PbP threads!
Falenas is content that they could finish the task without major issues, but he's not as glad as some others. "Thanks master" is the only thing that he says before promptly going to his room.
He joins the celebration, but he keeps the quiet demeanor that you saw in him in the first days of training. If asked, he'll just say "It's nothing, I'm just glad that we passed our first test". Unless actively stopped, he will go back early to his room.
Yevele was feeling more relief than exhultation at the completion of the battle. She bows to The Master in appreciation for the compliment, but, mutters quietly on her way up the stairs "We got lucky, only Mal was prepared for the rats to attack as soon as we opened the door. And, our battle formation was horrible. Letting Noah lead us into battle could be a disastrous mistake in the future." After leaving the basement, Yevele headed up to her room to meditate and then went down to join the others in the celebration. During the celebration, she is more quiet than usual, and will join Falenas in the early departure club.
OOC: What Yevele is trying to say is that an unarmored magic-user should not be in the front of their battle formation, but, as she is socially inept, I'm trying to make her say it in a way that others might find insulting. She doesn't mean it that way, but, she does have a habit of putting her foot in her mouth.
Maelfearance listens silently as Elaria gives her assessment of the battle and the actions of the group. He stands unmoving as the rest of his companions react and take off while he contemplates The Master's words. As he finally leaves the basement he says "It was a first step," to his teacher and casts a couple Prestidigitation on his way out to assist in cleaning up some of the rat blood.
As he walks the grounds after he discusses the events with his wife, reviewing all that had happened and their thoughts. He talks quietly, as is his nature, but makes no efforts to hide the fact. If he happened past where anyone was and/or if anyone tried to listen they would, of course, hear only his side of the discussion. If they tried to follow the discussion at all they would easily pick up the fact that Maelfearance was casually deflecting praise being given by his wife of his and the groups actions, instead Maelfearance was of the mind that they had acted adequately but not overly impressively, that he believed The Master was a bit free with her praise but it was likely that the young ones would garner as much confidence from said praise as from the victory.
Early on in his walk, Maelfearance took Rat out of the hidden pocket in his robe and released him onto the ground to do rat things. Over and above foraging for food and other typical rat practices, Rat poked his nose silently and unobtrusively into where everyone else was and what they were up to. Just checking on them, not spying or actively watching.
When Ryona comes and tells him of the celebration, he gives a slow nod of acknowledgement and will turns to his left. "Shall we, my dear?" he asks the empty space there and they head out toward the gathering.
"It is a lovely art," Maelfearance says to Ryona. "My dearest wife thanks you for making me look so heroic."
Mael will then stay on the outskirts of the revelry, present but only partaking as much as required to be polite. He is quite happy the watch the young ones celebrate and be happy while he himself enjoys a comfortable chair, a warm spot in the room, and pleasant conversation with his wife...
Agreeing vigorously with Ryona that a bit of revelry is in order (when is it not?), Noah indulges himself in the selection of arcane texts that he has accrued in his quarters for a couple of hours, before removing the bandage and examining what remains of his wound. He discards the used bandage, and thinks it wise to have a solid meal before the celebration. The sorcerer finds himself a lunch, and eats it in the dining hall. He observes Ryona painting, amused by the depiction of himself in the battle with the fiendish rodents. Noah compliments her art, and then departs to practice his spellcasting until the celebration.
If he passes Jarnick on the way there, he will thank him for the actions he took during the battle. "I got overconfident, I should have let you or Ryona take the lead," He laments. "You were there for me, though. Thank you, Jarnick." Noah then informs Jarnick of his plans to casually practice his battle-casting, and invites him to join him if he so wishes.
During the celebration, Noah acts amiably and asserts himself at the center of the festivities. He remains immersed in conversation with anybody willing until the end of the night, enjoying the drink and company as he is known to. He tells humorous stories when apt, using Minor Illusion to illustrate his words.
When Rat appeared near Ryona, she hadn't noticed. At first, she had been uncertain of the critter, but now accepts it as Malfearance's loyal pet.
During the small celebration, Ryona's usual stiffness erodes with a drink. She joins the center with Noah, often asking those at the fringe what they thought- or what they would expect in their coming adventures, not intent on keeping them, but genuinely wanting to them to speak their mind with everyone. After a couple rounds of this, she flushes up, taking a deep breath before standing to speak. Her voice shakes.
"I really wanted to say this with everyone together... I'm glad you guys are here with me. All of you- when I came, I thought everyone would be bulky, or... really fancy... all tough, strange and mystical beyond understanding." She takes another deep breath, but her trembling only intensifies. "I believe what Elana said. I believe in us. We might not be the strongest, smartest, or fastest, but we have what's far more important- a bond and a desire to protect each other."
She puts a closed hand on her breast, finally calming a little. She closes her eyes, taking another deep breath. She looks to Noah first as she continues, looking to everyone in turn. "I really think that is what makes us the best students to have been in the last hundred years. No matter where we are or who we're with, that is true strength. Belief in one another, and the bravery to aid each other. Ha... ha... sorry, I'm preaching again... you can leave the prayers to me, I promise. You guys see that, though, don't you?"
She sits quickly after a short moment of silence before anyone responds, burying her face with her hands a moment while listening.
Realizing Noah was still in pain, “Come on, let me help you walk.” Jarnick offered him a hand but then Ryona came in and healed Noah, Jarnick's eyes slightly widens, as this is the first time Ryona had shown her ability, finally knowing what she is capable of, adds more in his admiration to her. Jarnick looks at the now recovered Noah, seeing him no longer needing aid, he retracts his hand into a wave, grins at Noah, “Never mind, you can walk now.” He ran back to the main building into the library and finds a book about tactics, he is affected by how things unfold and Yevele’s comment, also the fact that he wants to train his villagers fighting, he thinks reading some book about tactics would be beneficial for the near and the distance future.
He then come back to the celebrate, hiding the book for the moment, reacting to Noah, “Yeah…We should be more aware next time. It’s nothing, you would have done the save for me…right?” when asked to participate in practice, “That isn’t even a question, Noah, you know I will take any chance to train, and training with someone is even better, just let me know when.” After that he listens to Ryona’s speech, he merely nods with a smile, not knowing how to respond. Jarnick enjoys a night of revelry, this is the first in six months that he could really mentally relax.
"So long as we are a team and working together, we shall only get better and better," Maelfearance says from across the room and then goes back to studying a small tome.
"Agreed," Noah says to Malfearance, tipping his glass in the air towards the man in acknowledgement. "We function as a group, and we will triumph."
Glancing around for a couple moments, Noah continues: "Not to be repetitive, but there's no shame here. We're a community, and we shouldn't let anything petty get in the way of our group cohesion." He takes a long swig of ale, wiping his mouth on his sleeve.
Noah remains until the night winds down, likely one of the very last to leave (fairly drunkenly) to his quarters for a rest. He jokes with Jarnick about his harrowing encounter with an oversized rat, asks Yevele of the technique she displayed with her staff, solemnly tells Ryona of his appreciation for her speech and empathy, does not speak much to Malfearance, and talks with Falenas of arcane matters.
Six months later...
Welcome to Parabor, a frontier village of diverse miners and adventurers. This community's economy is fueled by silver in the Cairgon Ranges, mithral in the Icebound Peaks, and explorers like those trained by The Master who scout the Merriam Vale for treasure.
The Cairgon Ranges cut Parabor and the Merriam Vale off from the rest of the Kingdom of Skylark where King Raziel Fortwyth II rules a prosperous civilization. While the small village falls under his domain, he largely ignores it. Its operations are in the hands of Governess Judith Seagarten, who keeps a small guard and can raise a larger militia if any trouble comes to town. She lets the villagers keep to themselves, coming around with her guards once a year to collect taxes.
The dangerous jobs and remote location of Parabor attract more than miners and adventurers. Plenty of people running from something - whether it be the law, a shady past, or an angry ex-lover - come to Parabor for refuge from their previous life. This is a village where people ask where you're going, not where you're coming from.
Three days ago, Elaria Feywing, a renowned mentor to you and many famous adventurers, died. "The Master" was known throughout the Merriam Vale. You were her final pupils. The ancient elf who taught you secrets of combat, magic, and wilderness survival passed away in her sleep on the very night she informed you that your training was complete. You had barely begun to look for work as tried and true adventurers when news of her death came. Though The Master was over eight hundred years old, she was always lithe and energetic; it seemed she could have lived another eight centuries.
Per the instructions of her last will and testament, Elaria is being buried quickly in a simple ceremony. While many who live in Parabor came to see The Master laid to rest, you are her only students able to attend given the short notice. Golonna, the local dwarf priestess who runs The Holy Beacon, Parabor's temple to Lux, god of light, presides over the ceremony. Her words have blurred together, a cold rain matching the ambience of the grave moment, but you soon find her looking in your direction.
"...her final class of students. Please, would any of you say a few words about Elaria in eulogy, by sharing a favorite memory, or an unexpected lesson that she taught you?" she asks as the rest of the attendants look on.
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Then the question tears Ryona away from somber thoughts. She shies in a small sway, looking to Noah as though expecting him to be prepared for that. A part of her demanded that she speak, but the crowd's attention made it hard to remember in that instant. The clash between resolve and fear make her heart pound, the tremble in her chest causing her to bring her hand up as though to make it stop. "There's no shame here," she says in a low voice.
In her mind, Elaria's memories seem a bright multicolored pool, blurred together in that moment. As though a giant reaching in, she runs her hands through them, images surfacing clearly for only an instant before fading into the others. She closes her eyes, nodding and focusing on the feeling of surprise. The pool becomes a light green, losing some of its intensity, but still bright. Elaria had plenty of mischievous moments. She inwardly smiled at the image of her as her eyes twinkled, the knowing smile eager to see revelation in her students. Ryona truly loved her leading puzzles, delighting in the anticipation Elaria had shown. Perhaps it was just meant for them- she always seemed to have that role as a mentor. Then her hand finds the memory just for this moment, reliving it as she pulls it out of the pool.
She's back in Elaria's library. Halfway pointing at the shelf in a slow sweep, she's looking for a reference. Falenas mentioned the book while talking about one of her ideas. She extends her hand to her quarry, taken aback when another hard covered book floats in front of it. She hesitates, then grabs the book. Flipping it over once, then back to the cover, she turns back to see Elaria now watching her from the opposite side of the room, sitting comfortably as she was with legs crossed. The book Elaria was reading, now closed on her lap with a long bookmark hanging from it. She smiles expectantly.
"You've worked hard to impress others, haven't you? Have some time for a book between all that laboring?" She looks down at the book in Ryona's hands.
"I do," Ryona answers both questions, pleased by the irony. "this book. 'Alchemist?' It's in elven. I can't-"
Elaria nods, the smile growing. "It was a sylvan story before anyone wrote it in elven."
Ryona's eyes widen, taking the book in both hands with sudden care. Sylvan speakers very rarely ever wrote books, making this worth far more than any other thing she held, second only to a baby. "I... I shouldn't...!"
She chuckles. "Read it in the original language? Of course you should. This book kept itself in one piece so that it may live at least one more time. I think we both can relate to it." She opens her book, still looking to Ryona. "And if the words spark in you, perhaps you can remake it before it is gone. Go ahead, give it a try."
Ryona swallows and opens her eyes. Still holding a hand to her chest and smiling with the memory, she nods to herself, ready to share it-
-when she realizes she had just done so as she recalled it in the moment. She flushes. Her eyes well up, and finishes, voice now trembling. "I feel so honored that she shared her time with us. I think she really loved to live, and I think she wanted to help as many people as she could to feel the same way."
Maelfearance stands stoically amongst the others, unmoving and appearing unmoved. "Death is not the end of life. It is not as if a life is wiped away like grime from a table or smut from a cloak. Life and death are both but segments of the greater pathway that we all tread. By dying Elaria Feywing may have left us but her deeds, actions and influence do not disappear from us or the world. While she graduates from one segment of the path to another she carries on here through those she has influenced.
"You are stronger as a team than as individuals," Maelfearance says quoting the Master. "Elaria Feywing knew we were individuals. Very different individuals. But part of her brilliance was not only knowing what we were, but what we could be. Slowly. Subtly. Inevitably. She molded us from just individuals into a cohesive unit. Into a team. Into a family. This was the gift of Elaria Feywing to us, and our gift needs to be to take that bond she forged and put it out into the world for the purpose she believed we could fulfill."
Jarnick is standing straight, he tightens his facial muscle stiffly, he is trying very hard to not let loose of his emotions. In the time frame of one year, he’d be through a lot, happy times, hard times, he remembers coming in not knowing much, Elaria trained him, taught him so much about the world, gave him all that he needed. He also remembers when the students were bonding together, she was always there smiling and watching, her mischievous, her encouragement, still vivid in his mind. He feels regret, he didn’t think she was going to be gone so soon, she opened a door to a new world in front of him, but he barely knows her. Jarnick refrains himself from thinking deeper, he opens his mouth, “She reminds me of my mother, in a way she was, providing, inspiring, helping us reach our potential…We will not, and I’m sure, put that to waste, we’ll honor her with what she taught us, she’ll not be ashamed.”
Falenas chuckles nervously when addressed, still partly in denial. "Master Feywing knew who we were from the beggining, but as Mael said she knew not only that, but also who we could be as individuals and as a team. Yes, she was mischievous and loved putting us in trouble, but she could also be so... caring and thoughtful". His voice trembles as the voice comes out from his mouth. As he stands watching the rain fall, a memory flashes in his head:
It was also raining that night, Falenas had just finished packing. After leaving a thank you note on his desk he reached for the door's handle, but before he could get it the door opened wide. "Where do you think you're going boy?"
"Master, I..."
Elaria sighs. "No need to explain, you have it written all over your face" Falenas notices that she carries a liquor bottle and two small glasses, as she pours she smiles and says "It's elven, don't tell the others. And drink up, it will calm you down". They both start drinking. "I know that you admire them, and you have reason to do so, they have so much potential. They look up to you as well, you know that, right?" Falenas stares at her silently. "You can leave if you want to, just stop trying so hard to impress others and start trying to make an impression in yourself. Remember that you could not do any of these things not so long ago, and you have taken great strides. You don't owe anything to anyone, not your family, not your comrades and certainly not to me. You can be great if you want to, and I think that deep down you know it too, after all, you were chosen for a reason. Now, promise me that you'll get stronger for yourself, not for anyone else."
"But..."
"Promise me!" Elaria interrupts
"I promise" Falenas says to himself as he looks to the coffin. After a pause, he looks to the rest of his companions, his eyes start showing resolve, he puts his hand over his heart and he says loudly "We'll make you proud Master Fe... Elaria"
Noah stares at the coffin for most of the early ceremony, his emotions unreadable from the blank expression plastered across his face. It could be read as him repressing emotion or a lack of care - in reality, he was trying to feel sorrow. Feywing was a good teacher (he never got comfortable using her first name, it felt too intimate to use liberally with such a prestigious instructor) and a kind heart, but despite Noah's respect for her legacy and character, he did not become as personally attached as some of the others. His empathetic side told him that it was not his fault, that he was more focused on his companions - another said that she had exhausted her usefulness.
He brought his mind away from this matter and quickly forced himself to don a convincing frown, softening his stare from one of consideration to one of wistful grief. The others seemed to regale the crowd with touching monologues - Noah did not planning to do so. He would speak striking and complimentary words on her behalf, and then disengage. A well acted and concise speech would be enough - the crowd would not be at their most insightful, clouded by grief.
As Falenas stepped down, Noah passed him with a meek nod of acknowlegement. He cleared his throat, surveying the crowd briefly.
"Master Feywing was a kind heart, a vigilant teacher, and an unwavering beacon of light for all classes she taught. It is truly a dark day that such a soul has moved on from this material coil, but I trust that she will find her place in the After with the great figures of her caliber. Do not despair that she has left us - she has passed on her infinite wisdom to us, the next generation. We will continue her legacy and honor her prestigious name. I have confidence that Elaria Feywing, as her dying action, has improved the lives of six more exponentially. Her memory will not go trampled by the merciless boots of time - we will preserve and share it, so the generations beyond may remember. Lest we forget."
With that, Noah steps down, glancing between his companions and assuming his previous demeanor as the proceeds continue. He nods solemnly and encouragingly to whoever goes next.
Yevele listened quietly to the words everyone else was saying, and thought about her own encounters with the Master. She was still in a bit of shock about the woman's death, but, also knew that seemingly healthy ancient monks would die suddenly. After Noah talks, Yevele stands up and takes a minute before speaking "Master Feywing was someone we could all look up to. She understood that all people have strengths and weaknesses and encourage us to look past a person's faults and see the good inside them. She understood that a true group of friends was more than the sum of its individuals. She worked to forge those bounds between her trainees."
As she finished, Yevele's thoughts flashed back to an incident shortly after the battle with the rats 'walking down the hallway near the Master's office, Yevele heard her talking "The young monk doesn't mean to be hurtful or harmful. She thinks she is helping you with constructive criticism, but, she is not as dexterous with words as she is with her staff."
Yevele turned and walked away at that point, not knowing who Master Feywing was talking to. In her subsequent interactions with Master Feywing, the young woman was sure that the Master knew Yevele was in the hallway. But, Yevele also was less critical of her companions, and tried to watch her words, sometimes unsuccessfully.'
Those in attendance look on stoically, hanging on every word; some smiling, some sobbing at the memories of the beloved elf.
The ceremony concludes, and the folk of Parabor slowly depart. Some go out of their way to approach and give their regards, but most walk out of The Holy Beacon with their heads hung low. Only one other remains as you exit The Holy Beacon: Yelsa Hedwick, Parabor's only solicitor. The middle-aged gnome woman approaches, pushing her half-moon spectacles further up her nose. She embraces you one by one (any who will return it), barely holding back hysterical tears.
"Ms. Feywing spoke fondly of all of you. In fact, you are all mentioned in her last will and testament. If you have time today, would you please stop by my office? I know it is a lot to ask...but..." Yelsa cannot finish her sentence, as the tears finally come. She holds her hands out in apology and walks away from you, honking into a handkerchief. "Please...stop by...later," she manages to get out through the tears.
Parabor Locations Known:
Parabor Solicitor (Yelsa's office)
The Holy Beacon (Shrine of Lux)
Hinger's Hammer (Weapons/Armor)
Pegleg Trading Port (Adventuring Gear)
Quill and Stopper (Arcane Goods)
The Rowdy Room (Inn/Tavern)
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"Individually or as a group?" Malfearance will inquire before Ms. Hedwick departs but otherwise not delay her.
Maelfearance will otherwise do some window shopping at the Quill and Stopper, getting a feel of what they have to offer, a general sense of the prices and such. His coffers are empty so he'll be making no purchases at this time, just getting a general feel for the place. After that Maelfearance will find a comfortable place to loiter not too far from The Rowdy Room, someplace he can be more or less unobtrusive. He will discreetly release Rat and have them play spy, checking out the tavern, listening for gossip, seeing if there is anything interesting or profitable to learn.
Noah pitches in one or two gold pieces (depending on how much she needs) to Ryona, figuring that the purchase of a healing kit would benefit the group as a whole.
His expression demure as he watches Ms. Hedwick exit the venue, Noah turns to the members of the party that have not gone off alone. "Well, if anybody is in need of rations or other odds and ends this would be the time to speak up. I don't think many of us are in the mood to go shopping - I suggest we depart to Ms. Hedwick's office as soon as possible."