DM Jelani's Carrion Crown

Game Master Brian Minhinnick

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Half-Elf Spirit Ranger 8 (HP 33/68; F+8, R+8, W+4 (+1 vs. Arcane); AC 25/12/23; Perception +18, Sense Motive +2, Initiative +2)

Janos steps up to speak closely to Tibideau. "Go. You need to be with her." Pain shows on his face. "I lost my mother when I was young. Make sure she knows how much she means to you. There will always be a place for you here
Don't worry about us. We can handle this."

-Posted with Wayfinder


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

Excuse me? You're leaving me!? B'yelka doesn't know what to say to that. She left her family and found a greater stage. Why can't Tibi stay? As she listens to the others say their goodbyes she realises that she has grabbed Tibi's hand, and is now squeezing it. Her mask is perfect, but she can sense her best friend's discomfort. Suddenly she drops his hand and flings her arms around him. Decorum be thrice damned! I don'want him to go! But of course it isn't her choice - it is Tibi's. After a long moment of bawling her eyes out, her tears slow to a steady sniffle and drip.

"Of course you must go. But you have to promise me that you'll write! And you have to go to all the best parties and let me know all the torrid scandals. Oh, and the Opera. But how can that ever be worthwhile until I come to paint the whole of Opparra red with my husband at my side?"


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Male Human Witch 7 | HP 44 | AC 14 (18 w/ Mage Armor) FF 12 T 14 | Saves F+3/R+5/W+4 | Init + 5 | Percep +7

Tibideau bursts into tears as soon as Anton puts his hand on his shoulder. "You're ALL getting hugs and there's NOTHING you can do about it!" he wails, pointing accusatorily at Dantrian. He wipes his eyes, but still cries steadily, and twists his lips into a grimace. He looks gravely at Anton. "I think I'll be okay. I'm more worried about my sister. She doesn't… take things well." Tibideau hugs Anton wholeheartedly and sniffles. "You were always the most fun! What a sense of adventure!"

He smiles through his tears at Drosil's words. "You're a doll! You know, I always think I can't do anything right." After pulling the fetchling into another hug, Tibideau sighs and looks him in the eye. "Start thinking before you run, okay? I've seen you an inch from the grave one too many times!"

As Dantrian shakes his hand, Tibideau pulls him in with surprising strength and wraps him up in a huge hug before the alchemist can do anything about it. "What am I going to do without you? I've really truly never met anyone as… you as you! Who's going to make all of my plans? I'll need a personal assistant!" He points to Anton and smiles conspiratorially. "Hang out with that guy more, it'll do you good," he instructs Dantrian. He steps back and gives the alchemist a once-over. "If I can one day figure out how to make you smile, I'll die a happy man. How would I go about that? Suggesting an afternoon of filing papers and drinking warm water?"

Next, he gives Janos the best bro hug* he can muster. His tears start to dry up a little bit at all the kind sentiments. "Thanks, bud. I'll just bring my mom a glass of brandy and a trashy novel and she'll be happy. Like mother, like son." He puts his hand on Janos's shoulder and narrows his eyes mischievously. "If you find some really good tobacco up here, send me some," he requests.

Last, he hugs B'yelka for a long, long time. He pushes her hair behind her ears and places both hands on her shoulders. He sniffles quietly, then breaks into a huge grin. "I'll have a new dress prepared for you whenever you come to visit, and you can be my date to the opera. I'll write as soon as I find the time. I know my mother will have her take on all the latest scandals. And my sister's husband is very important, you know, he's the great-great-grandson of Prince Marcus V, so she knows everyone and will be in the middle of all of it I'm sure." He gives her one last squeeze and a kiss on the forehead. "Bye, hon."

He blows his nose quite dramatically with his kerchief, bows to his companions, winks, and hops on a carriage. He stands rather unsafely, leaning halfway out the door as the carriage pulls away, waving until he is out of sight for good.

*My apologies for the anachronism, but there's just no other way to describe it.


Okay. Get your shopping done, and then we can return to the Schloss and the hidden hunting trail into the Shudderwood!


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

Anton watches with some sadness as the Witch rides away. He would have liked to have seen this through with Tibideau but equally he is glad his friend is now out if harms way.

He turns back to the task at hand and makes his way into town, looking to rearm himself for the continued hunt.

I'm ready


Half-Elf Spirit Ranger 8 (HP 33/68; F+8, R+8, W+4 (+1 vs. Arcane); AC 25/12/23; Perception +18, Sense Motive +2, Initiative +2)

"I'll send the very best." Janos embraces Tibi and then lets him get into the carriage. He waves as the wagon creaks away. The Ranger wipes his nose, not daring to look anyone in the eyes. "I hope he finds peace in her passing."

Janos makes his way back to the inn, to give the news to Kendra. While she's distraught at missing Tibideau's departure, Janos promises her she can write to him in Oppara. "Maybe we'll even go visit when all this is done."

Then he proceeds to fill her in on the events at Schloss Caromac. Knowing she won't take no for an answer, he shows her the small scar where the Promethean nearly crushes his head and the bruising from his dislocated shoulder. While others might succumb to the tale of the injuries he sustained, Kendra knew that whatever was endured, Janos was there standing in front of her whole. In many ways it was better than what he had suffered through before. As he explains the lead to the Whispering Way and their plans to go after them, he says, "Kendra, I know these people killed your father, but whatever they're mixed up in in getting very dangerous. Who would think they'd have the gall to control Aaron? I think the dark forest we're going into is going to yield all sorts of danger. I want you to stay here in Lepidstadt for the time being. I promise to write and I'll send for you if we find it safe.”

Kendra protests, but in her heart she knows he’s right. She won’t fare well in the forests, and she worries that Janos would be forced to sacrifice himself to save her. She closes her eyes and sigh. ”Ok, fine. But you send me a letter if you find anywhere I can be safe. I want to continue my magical experiments, but I can’t help at all if I’m a thousand miles away. I’m working on learning a spell to be able to observe you all anywhere anyway. Give me a lock of your hair. And keep that pendant with you. In short order, I think I’ll be able to track you.” She gives him a mischievous and defiant look. ”So don’t you dare think you can mess around with any other girl and I not find out about it!” She laughs. ”Besides, B’yelka will help me kill you!”


retired (arc completed)

As Tibideau pulls Dantrian in, the stuffy alchemist lurches awkwardly into the unexpected embrace, his stoicism briefly lost as his eyes widen in surprise. He pats his flamboyant companion clumsily on the back as he looks to the others with confusion before Tibideau releases his hold.

He nods as Tibideau steps up to his carriage, the gesture more a half-bow than a slight dip of his brow.

---

Later in the afternoon, Dantrian excuses himself from the others and strolls through the city on his own, procuring a few needed supplies and relishing the now all-too-rare time to himself. As the day wends on though, a growing sense of foreboding begins to develop in his gut as he considers the Shudderwood and the Whispering Way's interest in it.


Half-Elf Spirit Ranger 8 (HP 33/68; F+8, R+8, W+4 (+1 vs. Arcane); AC 25/12/23; Perception +18, Sense Motive +2, Initiative +2)

The next day, Janos and Kendra accompany the others through the city to purchase supplies for their upcoming excursion to Shudderwood. The Ranger finds a new bow with a much heavier draw weight and even more finely crafted than the previous one from Ravengro. Kendra insists he have more protection than his old chainmail allows, and the pair finds a magical breastplate. While agreeing to the cost, Janos is happy to find out the armor actually allows him a better range of movement. After climbing the ropes at the top of the Schloss, he becomes eager for the increased functionality.

Finally, the pair return to the inn to relax. Janos takes out a pouch of the Count's private tobacco and sits in the common room with his pipe. Suddenly Kendra appears and drops a box onto the table with a smile. It's wrapped with a deep red bow. She grins. "Open it! It's for you." Janos sits up and begins tugging at the bow. "What is this? When did you have time to get something?" He opens the box and lifts out a new pair of boots in a dark green color.

"Oh, don't be silly. You're not the only one who can be sneaky! It's magic. It will help you get along in the forest." Janos grunts. "I can get along in the forest just fine!"

"Don't be a spoilsport. The magic will let you know the forests as well as you already know the swamp. See what wonderful things magic can do!" Janos rolls his eyes, but put the new boots on. Immediately, he can smell the scent of pine and oak. While he doesn't feel any different, he knows Kendra's claim that these will help in the forests is true. He stand and hugs the girl. "Thank you, love. These will help. Who knows, might even save us at the right time."

She bites her lip, holding back tears at the thought of him being in danger again. "It's the least I can do. If I can't be there to help, at least I can make sure you have what you need. You have to promise to come back safe. I lost my father to these people, I can't lose you too."


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

B'yelka is unsure how to take Tibi's abrupt departure. He had become such a big part of her daily routine. Bathe, dress, laugh. Now, she had Mister Sour alongside the Swamp Rat, Drosil and his ever present 'brother' Anton. Well, at least Anton was nice to look at. So is Mister Almaeus. I think? She catches herself mid thought and jumps in her own skin. What was that I just heard me think? Oh no, no, no! The man is impossible. With that she gets up, goes to Drosil's door and knocks loudly. When he answers she offers no explanation but takes him by the hand and says, "We're getting drunk." and leads him down to the common room and sets to getting very, very drunk. All drama and maudlin tears, she laments, "My husband left me! Oh, what am I to do?"

Later that night, after she has gotten besotten, and taken herself to bed, she wakes up still feeling the effects of the whiskey and wine. She steals into the hallway and knocks on a door. After a moment of shuffling Anton opens the door...

Anton:
B'yelka is standing, swaying, in the hallway. Her eyes are bleary from tears and her hair is unbrushed. Wearing nothing more than a night shift, she looks up but can't say a word past her trembling lip.


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

Felt like a change of avatar. Anton has tidied himself since being dunked in the river beneath Castle Frankenstein Caromarc

It feels like an age since Anton got any sleep. Real sleep anyway. The Trial had been relentless, all rushing by him in a blur and the Count's manse was a horror-filled house of the macabre.

Tibideau was gone. It was startling to think it and more so to say it out loud, which he had done, looking in the dirty mirror of the small bathroom that adjoined his room in the inn. He remembered the vision he had had back in Harrowstone, after the Splatterman's gruesome touch. How he had wandered into a sweet-smelling field and seen his father, though he could not remember his face. He had known then that though they had all started on this path, not all of them would finish it. Since that day, as his friendships had grown stronger, he dreaded the moment he knew was coming, when this mad chase for the Whispering Way would end in tragedy.

He smiled, hoping that the vision... instinct... whatever it was, had only meant Tibideau's departure, and not the demise of any of those people he had grown closest to in this world.

Anton removed his shirt and washed down, barely letting himself dry before collapsing on to the bed.

There's still Dantrian. he thinks. And whatever is happening to him. Desna, sometimes I wish you had made me a wiser man, so that I would know what to do.

Those were the final thoughts that crossed his mind before he drifted.... off..... into..........

B'yelka:

Someone was knocking on his door. It was light, but insistent.

Anton rolls out of bed and rubs his eyes. He looks out of the window and sees it is still full dark so after stretching - he notes the cracking noise of his aching joints. His body is lean and toned from the weeks of travel and combat, but drawing a bow is like chopping at a tree and he feels a burn settle into his muscles at the end of each day. He quickly lights a candle and strides to the door.

B'yelka, what...?

The bard is standing in his door, dressed only in a slight shift, her tousled, eyes red from tears or alcohol, or both.

His first instinct is of concern, that overriding hope to keep his friends safe making his heart leap into his chest at the thought that danger might be close. But this feeling is chased hard by the sudden realisation that the beautiful bard is standing in his doorway, barely clothed......

Anton shakes his head, dismissing the thought and chiding himself internally.

He sees her lip quivering then.

Hey... what is it? he asks, setting the candle down on the side and placing his hands on the smooth skin of her shoulders, then one moving up to gently smooth her unruly hair pushing a lock behind her ear. B'yelka, you're cold. You can't stand out in the hall, sweetheart, come in and tell me what's wrong. Is it Tibideau?


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

In the dim light of Anton's chamber:
B'yelka leans into Anton and begins crying. His gentle touch such a relief after the horrors of Caromarc. Watching her friends get mangled by something that simply should never have existed, then Anton being cast off like a broken toy! And then the news of Tibi leaving her following hot on the heels of all of that!

Anton leads her into the room and quietly closes the door behind them. He guides her to sit on the bed while he stands. Suddenly feeling very young and very - His eyes, glitter in the light. Is he crying, too? "Sit with me, Dear Anton." She tries to straighten and does a fair job of it, but she still feels less than herself. Something has a hold of her though. When Anton sits with her she takes both of his hands into her lap and smiles at him. Her hand traces the same path that his did just a breath ago on her cheek, brushing an unruly lock of hair back. Her eyes fill with tears again and she starts, "I just don't know how we can get away with what we're doing. Maybe your brother's right? We are in too deep." She looks up into Anton's eyes, knowing he will tell her something beautiful, something of tomorrow. "Are we? In too deep, I mean?" She almost holds her breath waiting for his voice to tell her...


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

Anton's chamber:

Anton's breath catches in his throat as B'yelka leans in to him.

He can feel her hot tears on the bare skin of his chest, feel her heart beating rapidly like a frightened rabbit and for a moment he stands dumbly, hands hanging limply in the air behind her. Then, he simply folds his arms around her, holding her tightly, so that she can feel the strength of his embrace and take comfort from it.

He says nothing for a moment but gently lets himself be guided to the bed where she sits and looks up at him with eyes brimming with tears. When he sits, she takes his rough, traveller's hands in her own and he notes how soft her skin is.

B'yelka wrote:
Are we? In too deep, I mean?

B'yelka I...

He pauses. It has always been so hard for him to get a read on the bard and now was no different.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13

Each of us finds strength in the other. When we started this it was to pay respects to our friend. Now, I could not deviate from this path if I wanted to.

Not only because I want to see those responsible pay for what they did to Petros. But because if I turned away when the rest of you continued on, it would haunt me forever to know I wasn't there to help protect you. So in that way, yes, I think we are too deep, because now I could not imagine my life without you.

Anton reaches up and gently wipes away a tear with his thumb.

When that thing threw me from the tower, I called your name. And you saved me. he smiles then, that charmer's smile. She has seen a thousand smiles like it in Cheliax and yet this one was different. It was with both mouth and eyes; with nothing deceitful behind, just warmth.

When I hit the water, I swam until my arms turned to lead. When I got to the shore, I ran until I thought my heart would burst. That thing was worse than anything I have seen in my darkest nightmares and yet I knew that when I once again reached the top I would throw myself on the horror, the sum of all the hate and love I possess; and then, if my burning chest had been my bow, I would have shot my heart upon it...

And this time his eyes do glitter in the candle light.

..to save you

...
..
.
.

He flushes suddenly, and reflexively releases B'yelka's hands;

To save you all, I mean. he adds hurriedly, his hand running through his hair in a gesture that always told of his nervousness.


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

When Anton's choice was taken from him...:
*fade to black*


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

The next morning:

The next morning, Anton rises early and washes in the bathroom. B'yelka stretches lazily like a cat and turns over, her breathing soft and regular - asleep once more.

Anton stands and watches her for a moment, his face implacable. Inside he is churning, feeling like the biggest fool in the world.

Before I met this group the most expensive thing I owned was my now, a piece of bent yew. She is a diva, used to fashion and fame and the finer things. What a proud idiot I am to think she wanted anything but to feel comforted and what a piece of work to say those things when she was drunk and vulnerable. Anton what were you thinking...

He quickly throws on a shirt and leaves the room


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

B'yelka awakes with a start. Oh, just the door closing. Wait. Why is my door closing. Her eyes go wide as she realizes, That's not my door. She rises and looks around. Oh, Anton! what have we done? She pushes her hair back away from her face. I remember him doing that... Cracking open the door she peeks into the hall, seeing the coast is clear, she steps out and slinks back to her room to get ready for the day.


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

Anton heads downstairs and sees the others already in the common room, though B'yelka is thankfully not yet present.

She probably won't even remember he reassures himself.

Morning everyone. he says cheerfully. It's strange not to see Tibideau and Bonbon this morning. I think I am ready to travel today, what about you?

Kendra, I wish there were more time for you to spend with Janos


retired (arc completed)

Dantrian rises early in the morning, as had been his normal, disciplined routine before the events in Ravengro and the group's subsequent travels disrupted his normal habits. He finds some relief and comfort in his familiar exercises and is himself somewhat surprised to find his body fully recovered from his encounter with Caromarc's promethean.

When Drosil emerges from his room and B'yelka returns to hers, each finds a small satchel hanging from their respective door knobs: a simple bundle of alchemist's kindness to help ward off some of the unpleasantness that typically follows a night of vigorous drinking.

As Anton enters, Dantrian nods in greeting, "Anton."


Male Fetchling (World Walker) Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8 [ HP 65/76 | AC 29/18T/22FF | Fort +6, Ref +13, Will +3 | Init +7 (+2 with panache) | Perception +10 | Panache: 4/4 ]

Drosil wakes, eventually, to light streaming between curtains that he was sure he pulled when he arrived the night before. Bleary-eyed and head pounding, he readies himself for the day and sways briefly in the doorway to his room before he notices the satchel. Looking inside, he smiles wanly. Ah, Dantrian - such a cold exterior, but inside, I do believe there might actually be a beating, if not kind, heart...

He heads back into his room and pours himself a glass of water, adds the crystals, and, barely waiting for them to begin their fizzing, gulps the glass down. A few moments pass, then an enormous belch escapes his lips. Whoa, careful - almost lost a bit more there than intended... He sits heavily on his bed, head lowered, and takes several steadying breaths.

A few minutes later, he is downstairs, feeling much better than when he woke. He nods his thanks to Dantrian and, hearing Anton's words, nods to him as well. "I don't see any real reason to stay here. Waiting won't make our jobs any easier, either."


retired (arc completed)

"Indeed, the sooner we are prepared and depart, the less cold our quarry's trail will have grown again."


Half-Elf Spirit Ranger 8 (HP 33/68; F+8, R+8, W+4 (+1 vs. Arcane); AC 25/12/23; Perception +18, Sense Motive +2, Initiative +2)

"Relax, Dantrian. An hour or so for everyone to wake and ready themselves is hardly too much. The Way has been gone for days now. We can take a small bit of time." He smiles at Kendra and sips some tea. "I have to remember her as much as possible. Out there, we'll just be the rain and damp moss." Kendra rolls her eyes, but leans in to whisper to the Ranger.

Perception DC 20:

"You didn't memorize me last night? Your hands were everywhere..."

Janos gives the girl a fierce grin and then kisses her deeply. It's a touch long for decency and both of them are a bit out of breath afterward. Janos turns back to Dantrian. "All in good time, Master Almaeus. Besides, I think we're one singer short anyways. Where is B'yelka? Sleeping in, is she?"


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

B'yelka makes her way down the stairs just as Janos asks after her. "You know at home they say 'Speak of the Devil and he will come.'" She smiles looking more radiant than ever. Keep the brave face on, little girl. Her new breastplate is bare mithral and gleams brightly in the angled light of the sun through the windows. When do we leave? Other than a quick bite to break my fast I am ready." Leaning over the table she glances at Anton and immediately picks up his nervousness. She offers him a quick smile as she picks out a bit of bread and cheese, then sits down next to him. Not too close! The others might think we are 'involved'. as she munches her light meal she makes idle chit chat with everyone.

Dantrian naturally puts her out of her good mood, Am I in a good mood? How can I be. Anton is positively screaming at me, and Tibi's gone! with his constant hurry to be underway. B'yelka suddenly blurts out with a realization. "Mister Almaeus. You should have been a captain in her Imperial Majestrix's Navy! Always so serious, always so determined. I can just see you holding the ships wheel, your hair flowing in the wind as you sail for the Glory of, well, maybe not House Thrune, but for a cause." She smirks at the man's discomfiture, "Or you can be a patient gentleman and let us eat in peace." That was unkind! Why do I let him needle me so? My Hell would be him droning on about 'the right way to do things'! And yet, he was thoughtful enough to leave me a tonic for a headache... She hides her thoughts by pushing that one unruly lock of hair back behind her ear. I remember that part, at least.


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

Morning B’yelka. Anton says with an almost apologetic smile.
He remains silent for most of the meal but eventually speaks up as everyone is finishing their plates.

I went to the stables this morning and paid to have our horses groomed and re-shoed. I don’t know anything about the Shudderwood but the Count mentioned an old hunting trail, the kind of place it would be easy for a horse to slip. They’ve been well looked after and will be ready to go this morning.

I honestly couldn’t remember if we had horses. If not, Anton will buy riding horses for the party.


You do not have horses. Well, you didn't. I guess Anton bought them.


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

I did, but it has been glossed over, so, apparently we have *new* horses. Please tell me mine is a sleek black mare that has a not-quite fiery disposition ;)


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

Nah, Antons not thinking straight. So I think he got B'yelka a three legged riding dog lol


retired (arc completed)

Perception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (17) + 12 = 29

Dantrian steeples his fingers as Janos rebutts him and nods. "While I understand your desire to linger, Janos, I do not see how any of that invalidates what I have said. Still, I am not insisting that we depart this very moment. I am merely suggesting we proceed and approach the day with a sense of urgency."

He's only able to return his attention to the small book in his hands for a few moments before B'yelka's admonition is joined with the ranger's. He glances up at the diva, his face frustratingly stony, and replies, "Perhaps a career in the military would have suited me, B'yelka. Perhaps not." Without acknowledging the remainder of her petulant rant, his eyes then fall back to the small book in his hands and he takes another sip of his pungent, bitter tea. The wolfsbane was harsh and stark, especially in the excessive quantities the alchemist now added to the brew.


Half-Elf Spirit Ranger 8 (HP 33/68; F+8, R+8, W+4 (+1 vs. Arcane); AC 25/12/23; Perception +18, Sense Motive +2, Initiative +2)

Janos smiles. The Ranger is obviously in the good mood. "Fair enough, Dantrian. We'll be on our way shortly. We do want to be able to make it a respectable distance before nightfall." The thought of leaving Kendra wipes the smile from his face. He takes a deep breath and wraps her arm in his.

Kendra, on the other hand, is watching B'yelka. She tilts her head to one side, watching the singer. Suddenly, her eyes widen. She looks around at the group, biting her lip. After a while, she pats Janos on the leg. "Dear, maybe Dantrian's right. You all should be off soon. The Shudderwood will be a long road. Something tells me you five will need to rely on each other more than ever before."


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

"of course it would have, Mister Almaeus. You could tell people what to do and have them flogged if they refused." Suddenly bored of the conversation she drops it. Absolutely no sense of humor!

On the way to the stables B'yelka takes the time to say hello and good morning to the merchants and common folk about their daily business. She beams at them regardless of whether they seem to recognize her, Get your face out there! Maybe when I get back I can produce my own play - about us, of course!

At the stables she watches Janos, assuming he will know what to look for. After he inspects the mounts she asks, "Mine isn't too aggressive is she? I don't have much experience riding."

Anton, are you offering to be B'yelka's riding dog 'tripod'?


The group finishes their preparations and departs Lepidstadt for the Schloss. The ride takes about three hours at a brisk pace.

You could conceivably ride for another 5 hours. Any stoppage at the Schloss, or just straight on into the forest?


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

Lol no, he got everyone very hale and healthy horses.


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

They should be very steady. Anton says, trying to allay B'yelka's fears. I knew some of us were experienced riders so I made sure to ask for mounts with an even temperament.

He offers the lady his hand and then boosts her up into the saddle.

Just take it slowly and you'll be alright. he reassures her with a smile.


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

"Thank you dear Anton." She mounts the horse a bit discomfited by the fact that she is straddling the horse, rather than sidesaddle as she was more used to. Side saddle may be a bit awkward if we have to run the horses!

The ride is mostly quiet, as she enjoys the view of the country side. Well, as she daydreams over top of the rather dreary Ustalavic landscape. "And to think, I just imagined building a home up here. I am glad I was reminded not to!"

Press on, if we know where the trail is, that is ;)


Male Fetchling (World Walker) Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8 [ HP 65/76 | AC 29/18T/22FF | Fort +6, Ref +13, Will +3 | Init +7 (+2 with panache) | Perception +10 | Panache: 4/4 ]

Drosil mounts the horse easily enough, then waits patiently for the others.

I don't see a particular reason to stop at the Schloss...


retired (arc completed)

After the group has set out for the Shudderwood directly, as their course draws near to the schloss, Dantrian suddenly reels in his saddle as if struck. Shaking his head, he looks around in stunned confusion for a moment before his face darkens. "I am afraid we must stop by the schloss before heading for the hidden pass Caromarc mentioned." Without further elaboration, he heads for the enormous cliff-side structure once more.

---

The group barely has a chance to knock on the door to the castle before they hear a ruckus coming from within. Ceramic shattering on the floor, chairs clacking loudly on stone after they topple, glass and mirrors breaking, fabric curtains tearing, the sounds grow louder and louder as the source careens and bounces off of numerous things as it nears the door. Cracking the door open in caution, the group is nearly bowled over as a small, flying creature comes barreling around the interior corner and rockets through the now open portal, slamming hard into Dantrian's chest.

Weapons are drawn and spells half-way spoken before the group realizes their assailant is no real threat at all. The small creature is basically similar in appearance to Waxwood, but with mismatched wings, overly large and rounded ears, and a curly tuft of fur atop the crown of its head. A bushy wolf's tail wags excited as the small thing clings to Dantrian.

"Ah. You are what I heard then." Dantrian grabs the creature under each armpit and slowly tugs until he pulls it free from his chest. He holds it awkwardly at arms length then looks at the others. "I left Caromarc a sample of my blood, in the hopes his experience with reanimation might reveal a means of neutralizing my curse. It seems he has put it to another use." He spins the excited creature around to look at the group, still obviously unsure how to hold it. "Presuming I understand him correctly, I believe his name is 'Mosswick'."

The homunculus nods excitedly and offers a salute by way of greeting before wiggling free of Dantrian's grip and zipping around the group, scampering over shoulders, around waists, and on top of heads as he seeks to shake each person's hand. With a hissing, wheezing sound that seems its version of laughter, Mosswick then flits back over to Dantrian, hugs him at the waist, then scoots up to his shoulder where he waves cheerfully at the group again.

Dantrian observes dryly, "Wonderful."


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

Did Dantrian come all this way.... to make a friend?

Anton whispers to Drosil with some surprise.


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

For all of his high and mighty airs, rules can be bent oh so easy to suit *him*. Yes, he would fit right in with the Chelish nobility. She smiles, delighted, "How precious, Mister Almaeus."


retired (arc completed)

Dantrian's lips turn down in a tight, thin frown. "Yes. 'Delightful'." He glances at the homunculus on his shoulder and shakes his head. "At least now he is no longer screaming in my head. I do not know how much of that I would have been able to endure." Taking a deep, steadying breath, he then nods back across the bridge and to path they must take to reach the trail. "Thank you all for humoring the brief detour. Now that Mosswick's terrible shrieking has subsided, I believe I am fit to press onward." The dour alchemist shoots Mosswick a frown, to which the homunculus merely wags his tail and grins contentedly.


Half-Elf Spirit Ranger 8 (HP 33/68; F+8, R+8, W+4 (+1 vs. Arcane); AC 25/12/23; Perception +18, Sense Motive +2, Initiative +2)

Janos watches Dantrian unite with Mosswick with a mixture of alarm, wonder and amusement. He looks at the others and gives a very slow shrug of his shoulders. Janos turns to the alchemist with a mischievous grin on his face. "Dantrian, did you say this creature is of your own blood?"

The Ranger then looks at Mosswick. "Are you? Are you born from him? Do you consider Dantrian your father?" The enjoyment is clear on Janos' face.

-Posted with Wayfinder


retired (arc completed)

"So it would seem, Janos. From what I learned of homunculi while reviewing what notes Caromarc could provide, they form a telepathic bond with whomever provided the blood for their creation. And, as I can hear Mosswick's exuberant chattering in my head at this very moment, I can only presume Caromarc put my blood to use in its creation." His face remains stoic, but it's plain in the stiffness of his posture and the tightness in his eyes that Dantrian's struggling with how to process this peculiar turn of events.

As Janos turns to him, Mosswick's big eyes light up at his questions and he nods excitedly at the ranger from his perch on Dantrian's shoulder, his tail wagging with delight.


Male Fetchling (World Walker) Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8 [ HP 65/76 | AC 29/18T/22FF | Fort +6, Ref +13, Will +3 | Init +7 (+2 with panache) | Perception +10 | Panache: 4/4 ]

Drosil smirks briefly at Anton's question, but remains silent.

"Right. Well, then - now that your..." Offspring? No, let's not set him on edge. "...creation is with us, let's continue."


Female Human (Chelaxian) Bard (Diva) 8 | HP 51 | AC 19 FF 17 T13 | Saves +3/+8/+6 | Init + 8 | Percep +11

"Mosswick Almaeus. We will have to get visiting cards made for him? He seems far more outgoing than his father; he may need them!"


BROKEN MOON

Mosswick pulls a piece of paper torn from the page of a book from inside his meager loincloth. Creator told me to give you this, Master, he thinks to Dantrian, handing him the grimy scrap. On it is printed the following:

"All manner of beasts and monsters lurk beneath the eaves of the Shudderwood, but none so numerous or feared as the forest’s werewolves. Although the wood contains packs of these feral killers beyond counting, they can be loosely grouped into five distinct tribes: the provincial Broken Ones; the Kellid-descended Primals; the Prince’s Wolves, with their ties to Sczarni; the mighty Silverhides; and the fiend-worshiping Demon Wolves. Of course, the greatest threat these werewolves pose is that they can be anyone— the rough woodcutter, the itinerant peddler, the riverboat captain— any of them might be a wolf in human skin, and travelers through the Shudderwood are well advised to keep moving, keep to themselves, and leave the dark shadows of the forest behind them as soon as they can. For when the moon is full, the true masters of the Shudderwood fill the night with their howls, and woe be to any man or woman who becomes their prey."

—Oleandra Amandine, Shadows of the Shudderwood

The attribution at the bottom is written by hand in ink, and appears to be Petros Lorrimor's handwriting. The script is faded with age, it must be years old.

Further, Creator wanted me to tell you that entry into the Ascanor Lodge is by invitation only. Even though Creator no longer rules Vieland, he retains his title of count, and as a member of Ustalav’s hereditary nobility he has certain privileges. He wrote a letter of introduction for you, I'll just fetch it. The humunculus flits back into the Schloss, only to re-emerge a moment later clutching a large, folded vellum sheet in both hands. He gives it to Dantrian. I will lead you to the path, come, Mosswick thinks at Dantrian. The construct flies off again, leading the Six...now Five.

Leaving behind the Dippelmere Swamp and Vieland, the group crosses the Troll’s Tail River into the neighboring Palatinate of Lozeri. Ahead, a dark shadow rises on the horizon, which soon grows into a massive forest of towering conifers known as the Shudderwood. Standing at the edge of the Shudderwood is almost like staring into another world. Ominous, towering pine trees blot out the sunlight, allowing only occasional splinters of light to pierce through. Within this dimness, broken branches and occasional shrubs growing up through fallen trees create shadowy illusions both wondrous and haunting. Apart from pallid lichens, colorful fungi, feathermoss, and wintergreen, little else grows in the forest. The Shudderwood possesses an eerie stillness only occasionally liftd by the sounds of passing birds and small animals scurrying across the dry pine needles littering the forest floor.

According to Alpon Caromarc, the Whispering Way cultists most likely took the Silent Path, an ancient and rarely used hunting trail that is one of the most direct and covert routes through the Shudderwood. Marked in places with strange bone fetishes, the trail runs several hundred miles through the forest, crossing both the Beustral and the Calscroix rivers, passing by Ascanor Lodge, and finally ending at the town of Chastel on Lozeri’s southeastern border.

The forest around the path thins, and a brisk crosswind scatters concealing drift of pine needles across the trail. If not for the shallow grooves lef behind by the wheels of traveling wagons, following the path would be nearly impossible.


Male Fetchling (World Walker) Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8 [ HP 65/76 | AC 29/18T/22FF | Fort +6, Ref +13, Will +3 | Init +7 (+2 with panache) | Perception +10 | Panache: 4/4 ]

"Janos, I trust you can keep us to the trail?" asks Drosil as he tries to force his eyes to follow the path.


Half-Elf Spirit Ranger 8 (HP 33/68; F+8, R+8, W+4 (+1 vs. Arcane); AC 25/12/23; Perception +18, Sense Motive +2, Initiative +2)

As the pass into the forest, Janos feels a certain familiarity pass over him. He looks at the trees and sees old friends. He spots the disturbance of pine needles and knows a badger has been through about an hour before. His ears pick up the flitting of the thrushes through the trees, and his nose smells the old mixture of pine, dirt, and deer musk. It was like he was home, but he had never lived in the forest like he had the swamps.

See what wonderful things magic can do! Kendra had said. "She's right about that." Janos says to himself. He looks up, realizing Drosil has asked him a question.

"I think so. A gift from Kendra is helping my skills here. I feel quite at home."

I'll assume unless otherwise told that Favored Terrain now is in effect. +16 to Perception; +12 to Survival (+3 when tracking); and a +2 to Janos' initiative (total +4).


Male Human Paladin 8 | HP 36/53 (68)| AC 18 FF 15 T13 | Saves +11/+10/+10 | Init + 4 | Percep + 2 | Dip +14 | SM +10 | KR +6 | Heal +3 | HA +7 | HePo =0

Werewolves. Anton mutters to Janos as he kneels beside the ranger as he checks the trail. No wonder Dantrian was even more uptight than usual when it turned out the Way passed through here. Whatever is happening to him is getting worse. He told me that there might come a time when I might have to put him down. I tried to reassure him, that we would stand by him even if the worst happened... but if anyone knows about his condition it is him and I think he is becoming more and more convinced that his transformation into a monster is inevitable.

The paladin sighs.

The problem is... I think he might be right. This whole construct thing concerns me now too. Dantrian doesn't strike me as the kind of man who would order something like that to be made on a whim or because he just found it interesting. He said it was made using his blood... like he wanted to leave, I don't know, a legacy or something if he were to turn.

Is any of this making sense?


Half-Elf Spirit Ranger 8 (HP 33/68; F+8, R+8, W+4 (+1 vs. Arcane); AC 25/12/23; Perception +18, Sense Motive +2, Initiative +2)

Janos looks up at Anton. "Are you serious? I mean...I know we've talked about his curse, but..."He glances back at the alchemist. "You think he's losing control?"

The Ranger shakes his head. "I don't know if I could do it. I mean, yeah, if he turns into a complete monster and he's attacking us, sure. But if he's still Dantrian, but just unable to control himself? I don't know."

Janos looks back again at Dantrian and Mosswick. "You saw the Count's little construct. It can't really survive without him. I don't know what happens to it if the master actually dies. If he wants a legacy, I don't see it as being Mosswick. His brain at least should tell him that. But if he is losing control, maybe this is something he can rationalize."


As the group make their way into the forest, Janos spots a something glittering in the undergrowth. Upon closer inspection, he finds a gold coin. Bending down to pick it up, he sees another glint a few meters away, further into the forest.


Half-Elf Spirit Ranger 8 (HP 33/68; F+8, R+8, W+4 (+1 vs. Arcane); AC 25/12/23; Perception +18, Sense Motive +2, Initiative +2)

Janos stops and climbs down from his horse. "Look at this." he picks up the first gold coin. Then he spots the second one."There's another one." He inspects the coin.

Perception (FT): 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (14) + 16 = 30


Male Fetchling (World Walker) Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 8 [ HP 65/76 | AC 29/18T/22FF | Fort +6, Ref +13, Will +3 | Init +7 (+2 with panache) | Perception +10 | Panache: 4/4 ]

A chill, having nothing to do with the temperature of the air, runs down Drosil's back. "I'd be careful of that, Janos. I mean, if it were me, and I wanted to lure someone to an ambush, what better way to keep a target's eyes on the ground - and not on the forest around him - than to leave a trail of coins? Of course, this has the added bonus that you're almost sure to get your money back when the ambush is concluded."


After each coin, there is another, a few meters further into the forest, like a trail of golden breadcrumbs.

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