Varen accepts the offer of a handshake from Baelfire. She might not know who he is, precisely, but reading the room of the others gives context clues enough that she should accept his condolences. "Thank you, m'lord. We were quite shocked by the news... the King had declined quickly and we hoped being in the..." She pauses, looking around the grand Cathedral, "... in such close proximity to the Light would help him turn the corner for the better."
Kiran bows the moment he sees who the figure is, and starts to raise his hand to shake when the man seems to offer, but lowers it with an almost guilty glance at his own hand, "My apologies, my Lord, I do not doubt what you say, but I'm afraid I have seen too much of those who oppose the teachings and the empire to doubt what some of them would do to bring down the bulwark of order against the chaos of the darkness."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
V/Ro/K
Ronegan pales at Kiran's warning. "That's not what I..." He's cut off at the arrival of the man, and as soon as Baelfire removes his hood, Ronegan's eyes widen and his nudges Varen to attention. Following them inside, Ronegan will peer at the man whenever he is not being addressed, trying to discern any sign of these so-called boons beyond divine magic that the Defender of the Faith is said to possess.
Perception - 18
Addressing Baelfire very respectfully, and trying to avoid meeting his gaze whenever he speaks, Ronegan adds "We have come to see if we might offer any services to Queen Citrine and the Prince or Princess. So far away from home, in this situation, it breaks my heart." Ronegan felt awkward displaying this much emotion in front of Baelfire, but the little halfling couldn't help it. "We want to help, if we can," he finishes thickly.
Petal looks up at Ran smiling, ”Did I do good? I couldn’t let that nasty man-child and his joke of a beard push you around like that - I just got mad....”Petal wrings her wrists, her smile betrayed by her uncertain eyes.
”So we are pretty sure someone is trying to get all the houses to fight then? I mean, at least two houses! So we know Turco and Firstforges were targeted, that leaves the houses of....” She gestures wildly with her hands, trying to channel Ronegan as she tries to think. “Dhkar the um... Dragonborn royals, the humans are the.... Pedryas, we have the elves, they had a long name.... yes, the Caelano, Vahar are from the capital - so they couldn’t be attacked on the road, but Varen said the courier wore their colours.! And then there’s the marshfields, Halfling royals. The innkeeper who sent that package was in contact with the marshfields, so I’ve got a funny feeling about them. So if we keep track of who was attacked, we might be able to rule out the families until we find the right one right? Just like mushroom picking!” Petal is left gasping for air, clutching her head from all the brainwork.
As they walk on to the Barracks, petal nods at Rans reasoning. “Righty, so we are going to see if anyone was offered work right, or if anyone they knew was offered jobs from mysterious sources? I had a thought.... people are on high alert - do you really think they’ll talk to a firstforge?” “She points to her crest “And without it, they’ll probably thing I’m a Turco... You know who people never feel uneasy around? Their horses! If I come with you, as something really small, you can rattle them up, and anyone funny looking - I’ll follow and get the truth!” Petal grins, confident - she’s getting used to this sneaky world of politics - maybe too used to it.
“Yes, I was going to tell you how I met the Firstforges! Well, waaaaay back, I was living in the forest, with all my friends and all the animals - and things were great! The place was so beautiful, and it’s a natural beauty - not like these buildings here that you all marvel at. The only problem is, every day, there were less birds in the sky, less squirrels in the tree, and less of my own people.”
”The thing is, and I’ve noticed this a lot.... You city dwellers, you like to build and build - but you don’t look at what was already built by the earth and how you are tearing it down. You don’t stop to look at the beauty around you, you get distracted. Now that doesn’t make you all bad, you are a part of the land too, but you’ve forgotten it - you just need a little reminder. Now, the rest of my tribe were really old, like really really old! And ever since the darkness they’ve been dying out. They said, in order for our people to survive - for the land to thrive - we were gonna have to adapt. But they were too old they said, I would have to go out there and survive for them - keep our stories alive, and remind you lot.... that you have your place with the rest of this world, and it’s worth caring about.”
”So, I made it to Bhil Durahl. People were nasty, they didn’t understand me.... and I wasn’t as savvy as I am now. I heard the queen was coming, and I didn’t know what that was... but I wanted to see! But as she was coming through, some people grabbed me, said I was a thief! I remember she stopped them and said I was her servant and to be left alone. As I went to thank her, she just gave me a stern look, you know the one? And told me to carry her train. The thing is, in her face she was frowning, but I could see a little smile, just in her eyes you know? I stayed with her, and the family ever since, just trying to help! They’re good people, and the prince and princess especially, are so open to ideas... they see the beauty of this land - even though they listen to Ronnies inane waffling too! They’re going to be good rulers, not just for your lands, houses and people, but also for the land itself.”
Ran listens to Petal as they walk, wondering how someone that small can have lungs large enough to hold the air long enough to say so much. She barely gives him time to digest one question or statement before launching into another.
By the end though he does give a short laugh.
"That does sound like the Queen," Ran says. "She's stern but still seems to have a soft spots for those of us who don't quite fit in."
"I have to admit I never gave the woods and wild much of a thought. Any time I've been in them there was usually someone or something trying to kill me or there was someone or something I was trying to kill. Can't say I've given the cities much thought either though. People seem to like the sweeping awe of the tall cathedrals and castles. Maybe reminds them a little of the tall stands of trees they cut down to make them."
Petal's offer of changing herself into a small animal of some sort finally sinks in through the rest of the talk.
He stops and looks down at here, making sure she is listening.
"You have to be careful. Here more than anywhere. If anyone sees you change," he pauses. "well it won't end well."
He thinks a moment longer.
"But it's a good idea."
They turn a corner. It's not quite what he remembers, but he's sure the barracks are just ahead.
"If you're going to, you have to be hidden when you do."
"Hmm.. well, anything new happening in Ospel? I'll be heading over to the Blue Boar here in a bit, but I just wanted to check in with the guild first. Maybe see if there's any new jobs to take on... "
Coming upon the gate and a high wall they find it guarded by two guards a female human and a dwarven man.
"Hold," the woman in gold and crimson says with her shield up. "What is your business here," she adds her jaw set and her eyes hard peeking out of a helmet.
The dwarven man looks at you both curiously before cracking a smile.
"Calm yourself Maeb...it's members of my old house. Ran," he calls out pushing back his helmet to reveal a vaguely familiar face of a Firstforge bannerman, Julius Firebrand!
Firebrand was a good solider but a prankster and loved his cup!
Petal looks curiously too. He's a pest and a proud man you recall who you observed pining for Opal but the princess wouldn't give him the time of day!
Party 2 Elavor
"The tournament all for the tournament! It's been a slow week as far as business goes! Everyone coming to the city wants to be as close to the action as possible. We're getting a new high king from it as you know," Kara replies with a curt nod. "An the Boar," he then says licking his lips and sighing. "It's...its about the time she lays a table for dinner for the guild should we show up. Lyra might be pleased to see you've not wandered off to your death my boy although I can't say I'm not surprised myself..."he trails off snickering. "Ospel I should add has been Ospel. A rumor the church is mounting another crusade against the Darkness growing in the western lands but that's...thar's all I can recall," he adds smiling.
Party 3 Varen/Kiran/Ronegan
Ronegan your appraisal Jubel's appearance yields nothing more than the surface. He seems a well kept man who's vocal concerns are more about people than his appearance. His clothing has fallen into disrepair but he looks and smells clean. Insight maybe is more what you're looking for?
"You've seen those turned from the Light where? Are they in so many numbers in the lands of the Firstforges that we should worry here you are implying," Jubel asks with a wry smile, from his expression he finds your seriousness and accusations laughable but doesn't say it in so many words. "My interpreting of the Light tells me we should instead strive instead to see the goodness in people not the potential for ill. The Lightbringer gives many gifts that some of us have yet to truly understand. Now..." he says to all the party. "May you lay down your worries of other things awhile and let us join your house. I am sure more familiar faces will give them much more solace than my words ever could..." He trails of gestures for the party to follow.
It's a sincere place. Soft candlelight and large glass unadorned widows letting in the waning sunlight surrounds you as you walk through the center isle for a time behind Jubel. Many approach him but e says nothing only bows his head gesturing behind himself at your party. These people quickly move away. Leading you to the left of the center isle you find am alcove ablaze by candlelight and then an unassuming wooden door. Jubel pauses knocking twice before waiting to enter.
"You may enter," you all hear the strained voice of Onyx.
Jubel then pushed open the door allowing you all to enter first. In seeing you Onyx looks relieved but most of all made slightly less morose by the appearance of Ronegan. Opal and the queen are inconsolable. The women are huddled together weeping in a corner beside an amorphous statue of the Lightbringer's supposed visage. They don't seem to take notice you've entered the room.
"I think I'll leave you to...to talk," Jubel says softly his eyes showing his concern for those in the room. "Onyx...should you need my council before the meeting I will provide it but take heart with your companions. You will take more strength now in the friendship you've made and those you might make than you'll ever know ," he adds before bowing out of the chamber and closing the door behind him.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Kiran bows his head to Jubel again at his chastisement, “No, my lord, not in those lands. In my... previous duties, I was sent to seek them out.” Afterwards he remains silent and follows the group inside to the family, staying just inside the door, head bowed, whispering quietly to himself.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
K/Ro/Va
Ronegan Insight for Scary Church Guy (not Kiran): 19
Ronegan immediately goes to Onyx and wraps his arm's around the dwarf, though he barely comes up to the young Prince's shoulders. "I am so sorry, your Highness. I...I cannot imagine what you must be going through." Releasing Onyx, he will look to Opal and Queen Citrine. "This should not have happened here." He looks down sadly, then back up at Onyx, blinking away the slightest tears. "Whatever you need from, I am at your service. You know that, boy."
Varen looks to Onyx sadly, awaiting Ronegan's embrace to end. "Your father was truly a good man. Outside my own home, I had never felt more welcome in all of Bhil Durahl than when he invited me into yours."
She looks over to Opal, but knows the passionate dwarf will be taking this very hard, and wants to give her the space she needs. "If there is anything you, your sister, or your mother need, just say so."
She then speaks quietly to Onyx, to make sure that Opal and Citrine don't overhear. "Not to pile more weight on your shoulders, but... We have started looking into the ambush at Grambler. Our house was not the only one targeted, several other houses were attacked. Some by those bearing Firstforge arms and armor, much like our assailants wore Turco and Marshfield. Tempers are heated between houses already. We will keep our ears to the ground and get to the bottom of this."
"Well met, Julius," Ran says, extending his hand in greeting. "I'm surprised to see they haven't kicked you out yet. Must be hard getting good help lately."
He stands back and looks Firebrand up and down.
"You look good. This was the right decision for you."
Ran pauses and looks down at Petal and then back to Firebrand, much of the good-humor gone from his face.
"I wish I was here just to buy you an ale," Ran starts. "Did you hear we were attacked on the way to the city? Lost a lot of good soldiers. Almost as bad was that the attackers were wearing the colors of other houses."
He looks to Maeb and back to Firebrand.
"Everyone knows that a rumor's second home is the barracks. Is there anything floating around? Anyone throwing around lots of coin to try and hire guards away from here? There are good soliders being killed out there," he then looks at Maeb. "And not just Firstforge. It sounds like other houses have been attacked too. Anything, even the craziest of rumors could be helpful. I can't let our banner-men die in vane."
"Plenty of blather of course! People accusing all of us who are from the six houses of trying to kill off the others. Even Medb here got into a fight and she was raised here in Ospel," Julis explains with a grimace. "Defending a elven friend of ours who's a cousin of the royal house Caelano! Plenty of folks in stocks from the barracks because of rabble-rousing and brawling the last few days. Mostly those who can't see their hand in front of their face in the dark seem to start it...," he says then remembering your human Ran he chuckles. "No offense," he adds quickly. "Anyway a lot of talk of someone somewhere higher up that maybe hired some outcasts to disrupt the tournament. All I know is that someone somewhere is hiding something or doesn't want something to happen..." he adds lowering his voice and stepping closer. "If you ask me the Lightbringer is losing favor now that the wasting is back and troubling more folks that it ought to," he adds tapping the side of his nose. "Medb here has a way about her. Healing minor things you know with the natural magic her mother taught her but those injuries seem to just get worse after a while," he explains but stops when Medb pokes him with the blunt end of her spear!
"I...it's not magic. They're herbs and...tinctures I told you before," Medb says glaring at Julis. "it's a...a shame that someone would use the disguise of any of the Six to do harm on the high king's roads. Who can you trust now is all I am wondering," she adds with a frown nodding at an approaching group of paladins of the faith, three in total, appear then beckon you both from the barrack gates.
"House Firstforge," a genderless looking tall slender moon elf with delicate features and braided white hair calls out to you both as Medb and Julis seem to stand at attention as the paladins draw nearer to where you stand.
"We have news," a halfling female paladin with spike brown hair and a cherubic face wearing a somber expression. "Shall we walk," she adds ushering you towards the street that leads back towards the palace where you'll pass the tournament grounds once more.
Party 3 Varen/Kiran/Ronegan
"In all the time I have studied I..." Onyx trails off nodding at Varen but holding up his hand. He then pulls Ronegan aside as if for council and he whispers in halfling:
Ronegan only
"I never thought a healing magic could wither away a person so quickly but no matter how hard my mother tried to heal him with her own magic..." he pauses to frown, "it only seemed to sicken him further," he explains looking at Ronegan in the eyes his expression worried. "Now all this talk of treason in the houses...I...I don't know whom to trust and not...not even my own mother," he adds in the quietest tone not looking away from Ronegan!
"Yes, thank you Varen," Onyx begins again moving forward with Ronegan at his side his tone and expression serious. "The church has offered us some council as to the correspondence between them, my father, and the high king..." he says slightly louder than his normal tone gesturing around the small chapel and shaking his head at her next. "We...we hall discuss much when we return to the royal apartments," he adds with a knowing nod. "There's much to shop for as well...what a time to have had to abandoned so much on the road," he says while Onyx then subtle casts message to Varen whom he's holding eye contact with while going on about bags and the things the house needs.
Varen only:
"There are too many eyes and ears here...trust no one and be on your guard," the young prince explains whilst using his mother's trick of discussing something else while speaking to your mind from his own mind.
"So, gather the others who..." he looks to see Elavor, Petal, and Ran missing, "and please get what the household needs to replace what we've lost. We then shall discuss all I think in the royal apartments or...somewhere else that will remind us less of what we've lost this day," he adds nodding at Varen as he pats her shoulder. "Master Kiran I see you're still with us..." he adds her tone hard as his expression still not over it seems the altercation on the road. "I guess this would be the best time to find a new assignment sir if my house and the members of it are so...ill suited to be in your company...sir," he adds his tone and expression still hard.
"Onyx..." Opal calls out having briefly perked up hearing Varen's voice. "Not here...not today," she adds looking mournfully at her twin brother who again has changed dramatically again in a matter of hours.
"This is my house now..." Onyx begins puffing his chest out a little. "Father's wishes were plain. I am to protect all who are loyal to us and get to the bottom of these attacks sister. If what they've said is true many more lives might yet be lost if those accusing others have other agendas in play," he adds looking again hard at Kiran. "My place is with those loyal to the house Firstforge," he adds sternly.
"Father's body is being prepared. Mother and I will remain here you can go with the others. We will see you later in the apartments," Opal says waving her brother off.
"I..." Onyx faulters seeing his pride has made him seem unfeeling. "I can go with them but only if you don't need me," he adds.
"Go," Opal says in a clipped tone. "Make your discoveries if you must but leave us in peace," she adds gritting her teeth as Onyx looks ashamed.
"The high king's guard is here should you need them. I...do not..." Onyx begins moving closer to Opal, "do not travel alone from these walls to the apartments without an escort," he adds firmly as Opal nods.
"Yes, my king," Opal replied sharply but the moniker is more a jab than a sign of respect.
Sighing loudly Onyx waves his hands at the party and exits the chapel in a huff ahead of them!
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Kiran bows his head to Onyx, "I am here to serve, your majesty. I have accused no one amongst your group, and I have no reason to believe anyone among us in involved in the attacks. With your permission, I would like to remain with your family to protect you all and to unravel these attacks, for so long as you'll have me. But if I am unwanted, I will remove myself from your household."
Elavor laughs, "Another crusade? They love those, don't they? Well, I'm off to the 'Boar for a bit... see where the evening takes me. I may stumble to my room here, or there might be another waiting for me elsewhere! Take care, Kara!"
Elavor waves at his old sometimes'-mentor before he leaves... Then rides Dust to the Blue Boar, hitching her to whatever post is there and entering.
Petal smiles at Julius and Mebh, “Nice to meet you both! Ran never told me he had such lovely friends!”
As Petal walks over to the paladins with Ran she shrugs at his comment “The gnome said they were rounding up those that travelled with the royal families - I suppose I’d better be in my best behaviour!”
OOC: I'm assuming Varen's training in Arcana means that while she does not know how to cast normal spells, she can recognize them and knows some facets, such as that she can respond to a Message in turn. If not, let me know and I can edit this out.
A slight smirk passes Varen's lips. She had gathered the prince had talents, and is pleasantly surprised by this newest trick. Very useful. She responds, "We suspect the same at the Palace. Elavor mentioned the Blue Boar Inn as a discreet meeting place for tonight."
Ki/Ro/Va:
Before leaving to follow Onyx, Varen makes eye contact with Opal, and mouths "Talk later?"
As Varen follows Onyx, she speaks to him. "She'll come around, Onyx... ulp, I mean Your Grace." Varen pauses a moment, realizing she had goofed up the proper honorific. Mother would be horrified. "Sorry, my King. This will take some getting used to."
"Sire, if you have a discreet cloak or other outerwear, I suggest you don it while we travel. We can take you back to the palace, or you can accompany us to the meeting point I mentioned."
“We must hurry…the council has been called again,” a dragonborn with bronze scales says joining the moon elf and the halfing.
Once they have led Ran and Petal away from the barracks gate the moon elf looks at a male bronze-scaled dragonborn and sighs loudly.
"Shall I,” the halfling says frowning. “This...I hate to be the bearer of this terrible news...your king has passed on," the female halfling finally says. "I...we were sent by the defender of the faith his eminence Jubel Baelfire himself to inform you. We are truly sorry for your loss," she says as the other two paladins do not speak only bow their heads. "Your house is being gathered at the chapel in the Dawn cathedral. We will take you there…now," she adds and trails off as the bronze dragonborn steps forward.
"These sad tidings however are not all that brings us here,” the dragonborn begins. “There have been reports of treasonous attacks between houses on the roads and a formal inquire is being mounted but the church as well as the high king himself. All who were involved and witnessed these attacks must submit to questioning," the male dragonborn explains quickly as the other two paladins fall in behind him. "We shall we escort you to the chapel…we plan to question everyone tomorrow so that you might have time to collect yourselves and rejoin your house," he adds and ushers you both towards the road that leads to a set of docks not far off.
OOC: Please react but assume you are going to the cathedral. I am hoping to rejoin all parties, please.
Party 2 Elavor
You arrive at the Blue Boar and find a lively crowd. The interior is brightly lit by candlelight from the wall scones, a large hearth, and the ceilings where a large chandelier built entirely from dire boars tusks hangs over the center of the room. All manner of beast heads mounted all over the place adorn the walls while sets of bones articulated into majestic skeletal remains are tucked into corners! There are several dire boars heads on the walls over the long bar and portraits of famous adventures from legendary folks to present-day heroes of Embera. You see a motley bunch of folks collected here as patrons but they all look jovial and seem to keep to themselves from large groups taking up multi tables to the odd lone patron seated at the bar enjoying a brew.
“He’s back! Elavor my lad,” a fiery redheaded dwarf with a Mohawk shouts from the bar! “What a pleasure it is to see you’re still breathing,” he adds waving you over.
This is Dougal Ironfist a former adventurer and big game hunter. He is known to spin a tale or a hundred! He's known for talking your ear off about the many beasts that adorn the walls he himself killed. You also know he helped Lyra buy the tavern after they retired from adventuring. It's one-story he will not tell however about the hunt that went terribly wrong. Rumor has the hunt killed all of their party members except Lyra and himself who nearly died if it wasn't for Lyra helping him escape. Lyra still bares nasty scars from the incident and Dougal doesn't have a left leg from the knee down nor a right hand using a hook or other adaptations to aid him! Lyra however doesn’t seem to be around.
Party 3 Kiran/Varen/Ronegan
Once on the steps of the cathedral and out of earshot of the faithful, mostly Onyx turns to Kiran.
“Your…your loyalty isn’t being questioned for the incident on the road sir for you did give us aid and at no point did I find you suspicious. Your loyalty is being questioned for the way you treated members of my house who gave us aid to defeat those who wish to kill us!” Onyx reminds Kiran with a stern look before glancing at Ronegan then back at the monk. “My sister…” he sighs touching his temples, “she is much better at understanding the Light and what drives people like you. She seems to think however you’ve got the right intentions but you have been given the wrong impressions of what happened back there on the road. To me regardless of how the Lightbringer falls into it, our actions did no one but our enemies ill," he adds. "So, as if stand with me your king, if you choose to remain in my house, you need to prove...to prove to us,” he gestures at Ronegan and then back at himself, “we can trust you know who the real enemy. Because many seek to harm us...to kill us! We need all the allies we can get and I know...my sister trusts you so I have decided to give you the benefit of the doubt,” he adds frowning his eyes then darting around to see if anyone is listening or watching the group!
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“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Ran hears the news and lets out the air in his lungs in a long, slow sigh. He can't say that he feels surprised. From the state of the king it had been only a matter of time. And while he had not been close to the king, he had still been Ran's liege and there was still a moment of emptiness. And now there was a new king to serve.
"Thank you for finding us and letting us know," says Ran. "Is it safe to presume it was the wasting sickness?"
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Sleight of Hand 21
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
V/Ro/K:
Varen accepts the offer of a handshake from Baelfire. She might not know who he is, precisely, but reading the room of the others gives context clues enough that she should accept his condolences. "Thank you, m'lord. We were quite shocked by the news... the King had declined quickly and we hoped being in the..." She pauses, looking around the grand Cathedral, "... in such close proximity to the Light would help him turn the corner for the better."
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Va/Ro/Ki
Kiran bows the moment he sees who the figure is, and starts to raise his hand to shake when the man seems to offer, but lowers it with an almost guilty glance at his own hand, "My apologies, my Lord, I do not doubt what you say, but I'm afraid I have seen too much of those who oppose the teachings and the empire to doubt what some of them would do to bring down the bulwark of order against the chaos of the darkness."
V/Ro/K
Ronegan pales at Kiran's warning. "That's not what I..." He's cut off at the arrival of the man, and as soon as Baelfire removes his hood, Ronegan's eyes widen and his nudges Varen to attention. Following them inside, Ronegan will peer at the man whenever he is not being addressed, trying to discern any sign of these so-called boons beyond divine magic that the Defender of the Faith is said to possess.
Perception - 18
Addressing Baelfire very respectfully, and trying to avoid meeting his gaze whenever he speaks, Ronegan adds "We have come to see if we might offer any services to Queen Citrine and the Prince or Princess. So far away from home, in this situation, it breaks my heart." Ronegan felt awkward displaying this much emotion in front of Baelfire, but the little halfling couldn't help it. "We want to help, if we can," he finishes thickly.
Group 1 Ran/DM
Petal looks up at Ran smiling, ”Did I do good? I couldn’t let that nasty man-child and his joke of a beard push you around like that - I just got mad....” Petal wrings her wrists, her smile betrayed by her uncertain eyes.
”So we are pretty sure someone is trying to get all the houses to fight then? I mean, at least two houses! So we know Turco and Firstforges were targeted, that leaves the houses of....” She gestures wildly with her hands, trying to channel Ronegan as she tries to think. “Dhkar the um... Dragonborn royals, the humans are the.... Pedryas, we have the elves, they had a long name.... yes, the Caelano, Vahar are from the capital - so they couldn’t be attacked on the road, but Varen said the courier wore their colours.! And then there’s the marshfields, Halfling royals. The innkeeper who sent that package was in contact with the marshfields, so I’ve got a funny feeling about them. So if we keep track of who was attacked, we might be able to rule out the families until we find the right one right? Just like mushroom picking!” Petal is left gasping for air, clutching her head from all the brainwork.
As they walk on to the Barracks, petal nods at Rans reasoning. “Righty, so we are going to see if anyone was offered work right, or if anyone they knew was offered jobs from mysterious sources? I had a thought.... people are on high alert - do you really think they’ll talk to a firstforge?” “She points to her crest “And without it, they’ll probably thing I’m a Turco... You know who people never feel uneasy around? Their horses! If I come with you, as something really small, you can rattle them up, and anyone funny looking - I’ll follow and get the truth!” Petal grins, confident - she’s getting used to this sneaky world of politics - maybe too used to it.
“Yes, I was going to tell you how I met the Firstforges! Well, waaaaay back, I was living in the forest, with all my friends and all the animals - and things were great! The place was so beautiful, and it’s a natural beauty - not like these buildings here that you all marvel at. The only problem is, every day, there were less birds in the sky, less squirrels in the tree, and less of my own people.”
”The thing is, and I’ve noticed this a lot.... You city dwellers, you like to build and build - but you don’t look at what was already built by the earth and how you are tearing it down. You don’t stop to look at the beauty around you, you get distracted. Now that doesn’t make you all bad, you are a part of the land too, but you’ve forgotten it - you just need a little reminder. Now, the rest of my tribe were really old, like really really old! And ever since the darkness they’ve been dying out. They said, in order for our people to survive - for the land to thrive - we were gonna have to adapt. But they were too old they said, I would have to go out there and survive for them - keep our stories alive, and remind you lot.... that you have your place with the rest of this world, and it’s worth caring about.”
”So, I made it to Bhil Durahl. People were nasty, they didn’t understand me.... and I wasn’t as savvy as I am now. I heard the queen was coming, and I didn’t know what that was... but I wanted to see! But as she was coming through, some people grabbed me, said I was a thief! I remember she stopped them and said I was her servant and to be left alone. As I went to thank her, she just gave me a stern look, you know the one? And told me to carry her train. The thing is, in her face she was frowning, but I could see a little smile, just in her eyes you know? I stayed with her, and the family ever since, just trying to help! They’re good people, and the prince and princess especially, are so open to ideas... they see the beauty of this land - even though they listen to Ronnies inane waffling too! They’re going to be good rulers, not just for your lands, houses and people, but also for the land itself.”
Gilgin Hardhammer - Mountain Dwarf Cleric (Forge Domain) - Icewind Dale
Petal - Forest Gnome Druid (Circle of the Land - Forest) - Unsung Heroes of Embera
Party 1: Petal/DM
Ran listens to Petal as they walk, wondering how someone that small can have lungs large enough to hold the air long enough to say so much. She barely gives him time to digest one question or statement before launching into another.
By the end though he does give a short laugh.
"That does sound like the Queen," Ran says. "She's stern but still seems to have a soft spots for those of us who don't quite fit in."
"I have to admit I never gave the woods and wild much of a thought. Any time I've been in them there was usually someone or something trying to kill me or there was someone or something I was trying to kill. Can't say I've given the cities much thought either though. People seem to like the sweeping awe of the tall cathedrals and castles. Maybe reminds them a little of the tall stands of trees they cut down to make them."
Petal's offer of changing herself into a small animal of some sort finally sinks in through the rest of the talk.
He stops and looks down at here, making sure she is listening.
"You have to be careful. Here more than anywhere. If anyone sees you change," he pauses. "well it won't end well."
He thinks a moment longer.
"But it's a good idea."
They turn a corner. It's not quite what he remembers, but he's sure the barracks are just ahead.
"If you're going to, you have to be hidden when you do."
DM:
"Hmm.. well, anything new happening in Ospel? I'll be heading over to the Blue Boar here in a bit, but I just wanted to check in with the guild first. Maybe see if there's any new jobs to take on... "
Party 1 Ran/Petal
Coming upon the gate and a high wall they find it guarded by two guards a female human and a dwarven man.
"Hold," the woman in gold and crimson says with her shield up. "What is your business here," she adds her jaw set and her eyes hard peeking out of a helmet.
The dwarven man looks at you both curiously before cracking a smile.
"Calm yourself Maeb...it's members of my old house. Ran," he calls out pushing back his helmet to reveal a vaguely familiar face of a Firstforge bannerman, Julius Firebrand!
Firebrand was a good solider but a prankster and loved his cup!
Petal looks curiously too. He's a pest and a proud man you recall who you observed pining for Opal but the princess wouldn't give him the time of day!
Party 2 Elavor
"The tournament all for the tournament! It's been a slow week as far as business goes! Everyone coming to the city wants to be as close to the action as possible. We're getting a new high king from it as you know," Kara replies with a curt nod. "An the Boar," he then says licking his lips and sighing. "It's...its about the time she lays a table for dinner for the guild should we show up. Lyra might be pleased to see you've not wandered off to your death my boy although I can't say I'm not surprised myself..."he trails off snickering. "Ospel I should add has been Ospel. A rumor the church is mounting another crusade against the Darkness growing in the western lands but that's...thar's all I can recall," he adds smiling.
Party 3 Varen/Kiran/Ronegan
Ronegan your appraisal Jubel's appearance yields nothing more than the surface. He seems a well kept man who's vocal concerns are more about people than his appearance. His clothing has fallen into disrepair but he looks and smells clean. Insight maybe is more what you're looking for?
"You've seen those turned from the Light where? Are they in so many numbers in the lands of the Firstforges that we should worry here you are implying," Jubel asks with a wry smile, from his expression he finds your seriousness and accusations laughable but doesn't say it in so many words. "My interpreting of the Light tells me we should instead strive instead to see the goodness in people not the potential for ill. The Lightbringer gives many gifts that some of us have yet to truly understand. Now..." he says to all the party. "May you lay down your worries of other things awhile and let us join your house. I am sure more familiar faces will give them much more solace than my words ever could..." He trails of gestures for the party to follow.
It's a sincere place. Soft candlelight and large glass unadorned widows letting in the waning sunlight surrounds you as you walk through the center isle for a time behind Jubel. Many approach him but e says nothing only bows his head gesturing behind himself at your party. These people quickly move away. Leading you to the left of the center isle you find am alcove ablaze by candlelight and then an unassuming wooden door. Jubel pauses knocking twice before waiting to enter.
"You may enter," you all hear the strained voice of Onyx.
Jubel then pushed open the door allowing you all to enter first. In seeing you Onyx looks relieved but most of all made slightly less morose by the appearance of Ronegan. Opal and the queen are inconsolable. The women are huddled together weeping in a corner beside an amorphous statue of the Lightbringer's supposed visage. They don't seem to take notice you've entered the room.
"I think I'll leave you to...to talk," Jubel says softly his eyes showing his concern for those in the room. "Onyx...should you need my council before the meeting I will provide it but take heart with your companions. You will take more strength now in the friendship you've made and those you might make than you'll ever know ," he adds before bowing out of the chamber and closing the door behind him.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Ki/Ro/Va
Kiran bows his head to Jubel again at his chastisement, “No, my lord, not in those lands. In my... previous duties, I was sent to seek them out.” Afterwards he remains silent and follows the group inside to the family, staying just inside the door, head bowed, whispering quietly to himself.
K/Ro/Va
Ronegan Insight for Scary Church Guy (not Kiran): 19
Ronegan immediately goes to Onyx and wraps his arm's around the dwarf, though he barely comes up to the young Prince's shoulders. "I am so sorry, your Highness. I...I cannot imagine what you must be going through." Releasing Onyx, he will look to Opal and Queen Citrine. "This should not have happened here." He looks down sadly, then back up at Onyx, blinking away the slightest tears. "Whatever you need from, I am at your service. You know that, boy."
Ki/Ro/Va:
Varen looks to Onyx sadly, awaiting Ronegan's embrace to end. "Your father was truly a good man. Outside my own home, I had never felt more welcome in all of Bhil Durahl than when he invited me into yours."
She looks over to Opal, but knows the passionate dwarf will be taking this very hard, and wants to give her the space she needs. "If there is anything you, your sister, or your mother need, just say so."
She then speaks quietly to Onyx, to make sure that Opal and Citrine don't overhear. "Not to pile more weight on your shoulders, but... We have started looking into the ambush at Grambler. Our house was not the only one targeted, several other houses were attacked. Some by those bearing Firstforge arms and armor, much like our assailants wore Turco and Marshfield. Tempers are heated between houses already. We will keep our ears to the ground and get to the bottom of this."
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Party 1: DM/Petal
Ran laughs when he sees Firebrand.
"Well met, Julius," Ran says, extending his hand in greeting. "I'm surprised to see they haven't kicked you out yet. Must be hard getting good help lately."
He stands back and looks Firebrand up and down.
"You look good. This was the right decision for you."
Ran pauses and looks down at Petal and then back to Firebrand, much of the good-humor gone from his face.
"I wish I was here just to buy you an ale," Ran starts. "Did you hear we were attacked on the way to the city? Lost a lot of good soldiers. Almost as bad was that the attackers were wearing the colors of other houses."
He looks to Maeb and back to Firebrand.
"Everyone knows that a rumor's second home is the barracks. Is there anything floating around? Anyone throwing around lots of coin to try and hire guards away from here? There are good soliders being killed out there," he then looks at Maeb. "And not just Firstforge. It sounds like other houses have been attacked too. Anything, even the craziest of rumors could be helpful. I can't let our banner-men die in vane."
Party 1 Ran/Petal
"Plenty of blather of course! People accusing all of us who are from the six houses of trying to kill off the others. Even Medb here got into a fight and she was raised here in Ospel," Julis explains with a grimace. "Defending a elven friend of ours who's a cousin of the royal house Caelano! Plenty of folks in stocks from the barracks because of rabble-rousing and brawling the last few days. Mostly those who can't see their hand in front of their face in the dark seem to start it...," he says then remembering your human Ran he chuckles. "No offense," he adds quickly. "Anyway a lot of talk of someone somewhere higher up that maybe hired some outcasts to disrupt the tournament. All I know is that someone somewhere is hiding something or doesn't want something to happen..." he adds lowering his voice and stepping closer. "If you ask me the Lightbringer is losing favor now that the wasting is back and troubling more folks that it ought to," he adds tapping the side of his nose. "Medb here has a way about her. Healing minor things you know with the natural magic her mother taught her but those injuries seem to just get worse after a while," he explains but stops when Medb pokes him with the blunt end of her spear!
"I...it's not magic. They're herbs and...tinctures I told you before," Medb says glaring at Julis. "it's a...a shame that someone would use the disguise of any of the Six to do harm on the high king's roads. Who can you trust now is all I am wondering," she adds with a frown nodding at an approaching group of paladins of the faith, three in total, appear then beckon you both from the barrack gates.
"House Firstforge," a genderless looking tall slender moon elf with delicate features and braided white hair calls out to you both as Medb and Julis seem to stand at attention as the paladins draw nearer to where you stand.
"We have news," a halfling female paladin with spike brown hair and a cherubic face wearing a somber expression. "Shall we walk," she adds ushering you towards the street that leads back towards the palace where you'll pass the tournament grounds once more.
Party 3 Varen/Kiran/Ronegan
"In all the time I have studied I..." Onyx trails off nodding at Varen but holding up his hand. He then pulls Ronegan aside as if for council and he whispers in halfling:
Ronegan only
"I never thought a healing magic could wither away a person so quickly but no matter how hard my mother tried to heal him with her own magic..." he pauses to frown, "it only seemed to sicken him further," he explains looking at Ronegan in the eyes his expression worried. "Now all this talk of treason in the houses...I...I don't know whom to trust and not...not even my own mother," he adds in the quietest tone not looking away from Ronegan!
"Yes, thank you Varen," Onyx begins again moving forward with Ronegan at his side his tone and expression serious. "The church has offered us some council as to the correspondence between them, my father, and the high king..." he says slightly louder than his normal tone gesturing around the small chapel and shaking his head at her next. "We...we hall discuss much when we return to the royal apartments," he adds with a knowing nod. "There's much to shop for as well...what a time to have had to abandoned so much on the road," he says while Onyx then subtle casts message to Varen whom he's holding eye contact with while going on about bags and the things the house needs.
Varen only:
"There are too many eyes and ears here...trust no one and be on your guard," the young prince explains whilst using his mother's trick of discussing something else while speaking to your mind from his own mind.
"So, gather the others who..." he looks to see Elavor, Petal, and Ran missing, "and please get what the household needs to replace what we've lost. We then shall discuss all I think in the royal apartments or...somewhere else that will remind us less of what we've lost this day," he adds nodding at Varen as he pats her shoulder. "Master Kiran I see you're still with us..." he adds her tone hard as his expression still not over it seems the altercation on the road. "I guess this would be the best time to find a new assignment sir if my house and the members of it are so...ill suited to be in your company...sir," he adds his tone and expression still hard.
"Onyx..." Opal calls out having briefly perked up hearing Varen's voice. "Not here...not today," she adds looking mournfully at her twin brother who again has changed dramatically again in a matter of hours.
"This is my house now..." Onyx begins puffing his chest out a little. "Father's wishes were plain. I am to protect all who are loyal to us and get to the bottom of these attacks sister. If what they've said is true many more lives might yet be lost if those accusing others have other agendas in play," he adds looking again hard at Kiran. "My place is with those loyal to the house Firstforge," he adds sternly.
"Father's body is being prepared. Mother and I will remain here you can go with the others. We will see you later in the apartments," Opal says waving her brother off.
"I..." Onyx faulters seeing his pride has made him seem unfeeling. "I can go with them but only if you don't need me," he adds.
"Go," Opal says in a clipped tone. "Make your discoveries if you must but leave us in peace," she adds gritting her teeth as Onyx looks ashamed.
"The high king's guard is here should you need them. I...do not..." Onyx begins moving closer to Opal, "do not travel alone from these walls to the apartments without an escort," he adds firmly as Opal nods.
"Yes, my king," Opal replied sharply but the moniker is more a jab than a sign of respect.
Sighing loudly Onyx waves his hands at the party and exits the chapel in a huff ahead of them!
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Ki/Ro/Va
Kiran bows his head to Onyx, "I am here to serve, your majesty. I have accused no one amongst your group, and I have no reason to believe anyone among us in involved in the attacks. With your permission, I would like to remain with your family to protect you all and to unravel these attacks, for so long as you'll have me. But if I am unwanted, I will remove myself from your household."
Party 1 - Petal/DM
Ran nods his thanks to Maeb, and grabs Julius's shoulder as a gesture of camaraderie and a sign of farewell.
He then turns and joins the paladins.
"They didn't draw weapons on us, but this still can't be good," he says quietly to Petal.
DM:
Elavor laughs, "Another crusade? They love those, don't they? Well, I'm off to the 'Boar for a bit... see where the evening takes me. I may stumble to my room here, or there might be another waiting for me elsewhere! Take care, Kara!"
Elavor waves at his old sometimes'-mentor before he leaves... Then rides Dust to the Blue Boar, hitching her to whatever post is there and entering.
Petal smiles at Julius and Mebh, “Nice to meet you both! Ran never told me he had such lovely friends!”
As Petal walks over to the paladins with Ran she shrugs at his comment “The gnome said they were rounding up those that travelled with the royal families - I suppose I’d better be in my best behaviour!”
Gilgin Hardhammer - Mountain Dwarf Cleric (Forge Domain) - Icewind Dale
Petal - Forest Gnome Druid (Circle of the Land - Forest) - Unsung Heroes of Embera
DM:
OOC: I'm assuming Varen's training in Arcana means that while she does not know how to cast normal spells, she can recognize them and knows some facets, such as that she can respond to a Message in turn. If not, let me know and I can edit this out.
A slight smirk passes Varen's lips. She had gathered the prince had talents, and is pleasantly surprised by this newest trick. Very useful. She responds, "We suspect the same at the Palace. Elavor mentioned the Blue Boar Inn as a discreet meeting place for tonight."
Ki/Ro/Va:
Before leaving to follow Onyx, Varen makes eye contact with Opal, and mouths "Talk later?"
As Varen follows Onyx, she speaks to him. "She'll come around, Onyx... ulp, I mean Your Grace." Varen pauses a moment, realizing she had goofed up the proper honorific. Mother would be horrified. "Sorry, my King. This will take some getting used to."
"Sire, if you have a discreet cloak or other outerwear, I suggest you don it while we travel. We can take you back to the palace, or you can accompany us to the meeting point I mentioned."
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Party 1 Ran/Petal
“We must hurry…the council has been called again,” a dragonborn with bronze scales says joining the moon elf and the halfing.
Once they have led Ran and Petal away from the barracks gate the moon elf looks at a male bronze-scaled dragonborn and sighs loudly.
"Shall I,” the halfling says frowning. “This...I hate to be the bearer of this terrible news...your king has passed on," the female halfling finally says. "I...we were sent by the defender of the faith his eminence Jubel Baelfire himself to inform you. We are truly sorry for your loss," she says as the other two paladins do not speak only bow their heads. "Your house is being gathered at the chapel in the Dawn cathedral. We will take you there…now," she adds and trails off as the bronze dragonborn steps forward.
"These sad tidings however are not all that brings us here,” the dragonborn begins. “There have been reports of treasonous attacks between houses on the roads and a formal inquire is being mounted but the church as well as the high king himself. All who were involved and witnessed these attacks must submit to questioning," the male dragonborn explains quickly as the other two paladins fall in behind him. "We shall we escort you to the chapel…we plan to question everyone tomorrow so that you might have time to collect yourselves and rejoin your house," he adds and ushers you both towards the road that leads to a set of docks not far off.
OOC: Please react but assume you are going to the cathedral. I am hoping to rejoin all parties, please.
Party 2 Elavor
You arrive at the Blue Boar and find a lively crowd. The interior is brightly lit by candlelight from the wall scones, a large hearth, and the ceilings where a large chandelier built entirely from dire boars tusks hangs over the center of the room. All manner of beast heads mounted all over the place adorn the walls while sets of bones articulated into majestic skeletal remains are tucked into corners! There are several dire boars heads on the walls over the long bar and portraits of famous adventures from legendary folks to present-day heroes of Embera. You see a motley bunch of folks collected here as patrons but they all look jovial and seem to keep to themselves from large groups taking up multi tables to the odd lone patron seated at the bar enjoying a brew.
“He’s back! Elavor my lad,” a fiery redheaded dwarf with a Mohawk shouts from the bar! “What a pleasure it is to see you’re still breathing,” he adds waving you over.
This is Dougal Ironfist a former adventurer and big game hunter. He is known to spin a tale or a hundred! He's known for talking your ear off about the many beasts that adorn the walls he himself killed. You also know he helped Lyra buy the tavern after they retired from adventuring. It's one-story he will not tell however about the hunt that went terribly wrong. Rumor has the hunt killed all of their party members except Lyra and himself who nearly died if it wasn't for Lyra helping him escape. Lyra still bares nasty scars from the incident and Dougal doesn't have a left leg from the knee down nor a right hand using a hook or other adaptations to aid him! Lyra however doesn’t seem to be around.
Party 3 Kiran/Varen/Ronegan
Once on the steps of the cathedral and out of earshot of the faithful, mostly Onyx turns to Kiran.
“Your…your loyalty isn’t being questioned for the incident on the road sir for you did give us aid and at no point did I find you suspicious. Your loyalty is being questioned for the way you treated members of my house who gave us aid to defeat those who wish to kill us!” Onyx reminds Kiran with a stern look before glancing at Ronegan then back at the monk. “My sister…” he sighs touching his temples, “she is much better at understanding the Light and what drives people like you. She seems to think however you’ve got the right intentions but you have been given the wrong impressions of what happened back there on the road. To me regardless of how the Lightbringer falls into it, our actions did no one but our enemies ill," he adds. "So, as if stand with me your king, if you choose to remain in my house, you need to prove...to prove to us,” he gestures at Ronegan and then back at himself, “we can trust you know who the real enemy. Because many seek to harm us...to kill us! We need all the allies we can get and I know...my sister trusts you so I have decided to give you the benefit of the doubt,” he adds frowning his eyes then darting around to see if anyone is listening or watching the group!
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Ran hears the news and lets out the air in his lungs in a long, slow sigh. He can't say that he feels surprised. From the state of the king it had been only a matter of time. And while he had not been close to the king, he had still been Ran's liege and there was still a moment of emptiness. And now there was a new king to serve.
"Thank you for finding us and letting us know," says Ran. "Is it safe to presume it was the wasting sickness?"