Andrezi watches the exchange, bemused. "Perhaps the book has Grumlins in it too?" He asks with a smile, rolling his eyes a bit. "Who'd bother to curse a book? For what purpose?"
"Curse a book that promises power, enslavin' them to your will? No reason t'all I suppose."
Uriah's tone is soft but there is clearly sarcasm in the statement. His pitch remains the same though his tone becomes serious as he speaks again.
"The book is cursed as a weapon would be cursed, to bring ruin to any that would wield it. Imagine a wizard powerful as the Professor with a weaker will to resist it's lure."
Arkadi snorts. "First I have to understand it to be at risk. The Professor's notes are not easily deciphered by those less skilled. I can only pray that Iomedae lights my path. Here, Davor, what do you make of this?"
Andrezi pales, considering the implications and clearly rebuked. "I'm sorry... I know little of magic and little more of such dark things."
"No time for feelin' bad lad, you'll note I'm in no hurry to test my will against such fell things. Where I'm from paper is feared as surely as steel."
And best not to get your blood on that paper or see your soul off with naught to show for it.
Silvui grins at his brothers words.
I know what your trying to do brother...but perhaps there is some truth to that, the riches and fame could do us good I suppose.
cant start a real gang with nothing but money, a poetic tale of heroism will surely stir them all the more.
Silvui sighs annoyed by his thoughts of agreement and his brothers victory.
Very well, we shall go search this place, but I demand you promise to turn back if things get out of hand, I know how determined you can be to get yourself killed. He says with a smug smile.
Davor listens quietly to the others as he silently takes it all in.
"Here, Davor, what do you make of this?"
"I will see what I can uncover..." Sandman cast's his own guidance and takes the book and sees what he can discover.
Knowledge (Religion) }+1 guidance included.
Does the book that Sandman has been examining have any notes or anything like that? if so...
Knowledge (Religion) }+1 guidance included.
Your Kn. Religion check on The Umbral Leaves suggests that you, of all persons in the party, would likely not wish to read this book. Zon-Kuthon is the Lord of Shade and Madness, his lexicon is nothing more than a treatise on how best to spread human misery. Your cursory investigation of the book reveals that there is no indication that Professor Lorrimor had any particular interest in this book specifically, no notes or marks, but his possession of it indicates that he likely has read passages on occasion.
Your Kn. Religion check on Serving Your Hunger, a collection of unholy texts of Urgathoa reveals Urgathoa was a mortal once, but when she died, her thirst for life turned her into the Great Beyond’s first undead creature. Undead and dark necromancers are her primary worshipers, though those who hope to become undead (such as a vampire’s minions, potential liches) seek her favor as well. Professor Lorrimor's notes seem to be concentrated in areas that suggest paths one might take towards becoming a sentient undead.
Research Topic - The Harrowstone
Knowledge (history) and Knowledge (local) can be used to research the Harrowstone.
Research Topic - The Whispering Way
Knowledge (arcana) and Knowledge (religion) can be used to research the Whispering Way.
"Конечно, брат, я никогда не получаю нас в беде не случайно." Andrezi says with his lazy smile, then switches to Common. "I know little of this prison... maybe the Professor's books could help? I could look around in the morning, though I'm not the best bookworm." Andrezi shrugs. "Never heard of the Necromancers... except... you know... common people talk. 'They'll turn ye into a newt!!'" He says in a passable imitation of an old crone.
"All I know is Harrowstone is a haunted prison feared by the locals. That much I picked up on my short journey through town to the graveyard. I think the most important question now is what is our next course of action going to be?"
Arkadi shrugs. "I've heard the name of the Whispering Way mentioned before. Necromancers who claim a linage centuries old, as every secret cult does. Nothing more than that. But we'll find nothing certain here. We need to visit the Temple and this cache of tools, in the morning if not sooner."
So I formatted a post weird and somehow my rolls got discombobulated, I am going to dump a bunch here and repost so I know what I am working with.
Levelle stands as the group's conversation turns to Harrowston and the Whispering Way. Standing to once again peruse the books Levelle comments in an off hand tone, Harrowstone was built in 4594 and was once the premiere execution location for all of Ustalav. It burned in 4661. Most of the underground eastern section was lost but the top structures remain. As far as I have ever read the fire was fortuitous as there was, at the same time, an uprising. The warden and many other guards died keeping some of Ustalav's worst from getting out during the panic. Ravengro was built to serve as a settlement forthe guards I believe, and there should be a statue... Levelle stops and looks off for a second. Near the river if I recall. Oddly enough the warden, Hawkran? His wife died in the fire too...although many wonder why she was at the prison.
Levelle continues to peruse the books. When Arkadi mentions the Whispering Way Levelle adds, I hear they were once led by Tar-Baphon, the Whispering Tyrant. He was particularly powerful I suppose. I have also read that they not only are necromancers but seek more intelligent undead as allies. Levelle frowns for a moment. I was sure there was more here...I am confident that I could learn more if I had more time with these books... Levelle stops talking and continues to comb over the shelves.
Sandman puts on a pair of reading spectacles and starts skimming his book and the one that Arkadi gave him. "Hmm...From what I can tell, the Professor did not use The Umbral Leaves often. I don't blame him, this is a vile book allied to nightmares. I don't even wish to hold it, let alone read it." And with that he tosses it on the table. "Probably quoted in another book, or used to reverence something on occasion."
He then starts to look at Serving Your Hunger. After reading it for a short time, he looks over to Kendra and after a long pause lowers his glasses and asks.
"Kendra, I hate to be frank, but was Lorrimor a necromancer and did he worship any of the gods?"
The Whispering Way.
Knowledge (Religion) }Library bonus, Guidance
Untrained Knowledge (Arcana) }Library bonus, Guidance; max 10
Research Topic - The Harrowstone
Untrained Knowledge (History) }Library bonus, Guidance; max 10
Untrained Knowledge (Local) }Library bonus, Guidance; max 10
"...I don't know anything about the Harrowstone, but the whispering way is a sinister organization of necromancers. They have been active in the Inner Sea Region for thousands of years. Agents of the Whispering Way often seek alliances with undead creatures, if they are not undead themselves. The Whispering Way’s had a very notorious member... what was his name again... Ter... no, it was Tar-Baphon, the Whispering Tyrant. Tar-Baphon is a mighty necromancer, but the society itself has existed far before his time. What, Levelle already said that? Must of been reading these books, sorry about that... Anyway, the Whispering Way itself is a series of philosophies that can only be transferred via whispers— the philosophies are never written or spoken of loudly, making the exact goals and nature of the secretive philosophy difficult for outsiders to learn much about. So, as much as I know about them, I have no idea what The Whispering Way's actually Philosophy is, but history has proven that whatever it is, it is not good."
Levelle turns to Davor, an almost blank expression on her face her eyes linger over the butterfly birthmark for a moment, More than a pretty face...how...pleasant. Levelle turns back to the books on the wall without another word.
"Stop That Davor!" Andrezi says angrily. "The Professor would have never dealt in Necromancy. And he wouldn't follow these foul gods. He worked against evil, just as he said, and these tomes are to help him know the enemy." Andrezi sits and places his head in his hands. "Necromancers and Lich Kings... what did the poor Professor get into without us around to help him?"
Kendra's eyes narrow and she rises, incensed. "My father was a scholar! He studied evil to learn how to confront and defeat them whom who seek to bring darkness into this world!"
Kendra looks at all of you. "I did not believe that it was possible that my father death was some accident, but this new information..." she trails. "If you have had enough of suspecting my father, will you assist in uncovering the truth behind his death? I do not feel as though I can leave this town until this is resolved."
Oh I think we are all quite interested in the Professor's death at this point. But I think we need to be realistic about some things. The Professor surely did deal with necromancy. But do not confuse that with being a Necromancer. While I have neglected study in the area there are spells of necromantic origin that are quite useful....besides the man entrusted us to see these books elsewhere safely. Surely were he of dubious character he would be giving his collection to The Whispering Way... Levelle does not turn from the books at any point during her comments.
Arkadi starts at Levelle's description. "Of course! The gagged skull cult of Tar-Baphon. I'd forgotten they go by Whispering Way now." A grimace of distaste spreads on his face. "The knights of Iomedae have to upset one of their plots to free their master every few years. They all aspire to cast aside their humanity for an eternal undead, and are reputed to visit haunted spots for research. Or worse, to capture those already denied a peaceful rest and use their ghosts as test subjects. They make a point of murdered anyone they think knows their plots."
He turns to Kendra. "Be assured, your father was the enemy of these foul people. His research into the nature of undeath and those who seek its touch was so that we could stand against them. I swear we will not waste the opportunity he bought us with his life. These criminals will be held to account."
"More than a pretty face...how...pleasant.
"The mark of The Tender of Dreams is my most prized feature, Ms. Levelle!" Sandman answers with a smile, however without taking his gaze away from Kendra.
Kendra's eyes narrow and she rises, incensed. "My father was a scholar! He studied evil to learn how to confront and defeat them whom who seek to bring darkness into this world!"
Kendra looks at all of you. "I did not believe that it was possible that my father death was some accident, but this new information..." she trails. "If you have had enough of suspecting my father, will you assist in uncovering the truth behind his death? I do not feel as though I can leave this town until this is resolved."
Hmm, yet she does not answer my actual question. Interesting...
Sense Motive"No,no, I just wanted to hear it from your own mouth. I did not know the Professor as well as the rest of you is all. Just trying to get into his mindset. Anyway, after looking through this book, I theorize that The Whispering Way is possibly setting someone or someones up to become an intelligent undead. I don't much about how this is done, but such a death charged site as the Harrowstone would probably be where such a ritual would take place. Either the aftermath is the danger that the city will be facing, or perhaps the killing of people of this town are what they will use to power such a ritual. Even if this theory is wrong, we need to do something about this post haste!"
IC: Your sense motive is not enough to reveal anything.
Np. I totally understand. I just got this feeling that Lorrimor is going to rise from the dead with all the burying him at the beginning. The townsfolk and the research into becoming undead furthered this thought. Can't help but being a little suspicious. :)
"Let's not get too hasty Padre. The Professor was driven from Harrowstone by ghosts and I reckon we should find the same cache of items he did in order to fight back. I don't fancy heading into known danger with no way to protect myself and I doubt the others do either."
Hmm it seems the day is fading and if we are to set out for trinkets and protections we do best to rest. I need attend to my studies anyway. We are agreed then? HEad to this "hidden tomb" and investigate, without consulting the church?
"Seems the church ain't like to give up these treasures lightly and I ain't like to let the Professor's murder go lightly. I'm inclined to say we take what we need and ask forgiveness later, as the saying goes. If'n you'll pardon me Padre religiosity ain't one of my strong suites since leaving Westcrown."
"I suggested speaking with the church not to ask about some supplies they'd long since abandoned, but because the Professor went there for information. If we're following his trail, it would be helping to both know what he sought and have the same knowledge he did."
"Churches keep records right?" Andrezi points out. "Perhaps we can learn more about this prison before heading in... though I'll admit I'm not the best researcher. Andrezi yawns and stretches. "I'm with Levelle though... I think it's time for bed. The investigation can begin on a more wakeful note."
Yawn "Yes, Let us get some sleep. Perhaps The Great Dreamer will gift upon us insight during our rest. At the very least, a fresh mind will do us all good. We will set out to speak to the church in the morning and then we head out to investigate the tomb and the Harrowstone. I shall pray that we all have the protection of The Tender of Dreams to thwart the vile things we have studied and read this night. Have a pleasant rest all..." Sandman says in his sleepy tone, and then makes his way to where he is to sleep for the night.
AS others also talk of going to bed, Levelle will also retire. Casting Unseen Servant to assist in preparing her space and attending to random needs in the room, Levelle will take care of her nighttime needs and settle down to rest.
Arkadi casts an almost longing glance out the window at the darkening night and sighs. "Yes, in the morning then." He too retires for the night.
Kendra, a consummate hostess shows you each to the guest wing, and appraises you of the facilities and the amenities. She asks that those of you who take books to your rooms are careful with your candles, just as a general rule, and bids you good night.
Kendra remains close to you through this process. She shows you personally to the room that you choose, and speaks to you just inside the door. "My father's study is particularly well equipped, if you feel the need. And I shouldn't like to be alone there, either," she admits, coloring slightly. She looks at you somewhat bashfully, apparently waiting on a response.
You wake in the morning, and each of you finds container of warm water set outside your bedroom doors. it comes in various shapes and for various purposes, re-purposed vases and water decanters, giving the impression that the professor was not wholly invested in entertaining so many guests at once. You wash and dress, and slowly shuffle down the stairs to find a simple yet wholly tantalizing meal set out on the table. There is bacon, some sweet flat breads, and oat porridge, as well as some fruits. An elder woman wearing a clean apron over worn clothes introduces herself as Magda, and you can tell by her weather beaten face, strong hands and the creases at the corner of her eyes that she is inured to hard physical labor in the elements. Kendra is sitting at the end of the table with a book, and looks up at your entrance.
"After a night of rest, have you decided upon a course of action?" she inquires. "I have some knowledge of the city, and have adequate motivation to assist you," she manages the barest of smiles, her expression and body language adding please, allow me help.
"I think Davor summed our plans completely last night. We will speak to the Temple about what the Professor was searching for, then check this supply cache he mentioned, then make our way to Harrowstone." He seats himself for breakfast. "I expect trouble at Harrowstone, if not before. Everyone should be prepared to defend their lives and souls against whatever dangers we encounter."
"Aye then, let's be about it, though I'm hoping we avoid problems with the townsfolk this time through."
Uriah has once again donned his coat and hat.
Kendra offers to guide you to the temple herself, after breakfast. "If my father's death was unnatural, the Lady of the Graves should know of it," she states. "Her cause is not revenge, but She should rail against the severing of his Fate and lend Her power to your cause. I will pray for you."
When your bellies have been filled, and the plates and utensils have been cleared away, Kendra excuses herself for a time to don her mourning outfit, and then leads you away from the house, heading vaguely east, across a bridge over a small stream and to a crossroads. At this crossroads there is a post upon which have been tacked several bills.
"The Zokarid lad attends these," Kendra says, pausing there for a time. "There are several through the city, it is where the residents get their news. The Council's weekly report is the greatest draw."
Kendra turns to the south, and gestures down the path. "The Harrowstone lies down this path," she states, and bows her head, facial expression clearly grieved. "You will excuse me if I do not follow you there."
Kendra continues to the east, leading you towards a narrow covered bridge spanning the river. As you approach, you recognize several residents standing on the path, held by another, speaking to each other.
"They say there's blood everywhere," one resident, a male, says to another. "Has someone been killed?" a matron asked, concerned.
"Hush now, Enis, ain't no evidence of that," says a fourth man, the one who appears to be holding them from continuing. "Sheriff said I ain't s'posed to allow no body near. Now get on back to yer homes and let us do our jobs."
"Something's wrong ahead, best be on our best behavior."
Seems this town needs more help than we thought.
"Good morning everyone, I hope the goddess of dreams has blessed you all with pleasant dreams." Sandman says in his usual sleepy, airy tone.
----
When Kendra mentions about not wanting to go to the Harrowstone, Sandman says, "I don't blame you for not wanting to go there, Kendra.
Perception
[b]"What is wrong Uriah?"
Arkadi replies quietly, "Trouble. The sort that leaves bloodstains behind." Raising his voice he hails group and takes a few steps closer. "I couldn't help but overhear. You have trouble of some sort? My friend here is blessed with a healing touch, and the knights of Iomedae have taught me much in the ways to ward against the dangers of this land. Might we assist you?"
Levelle had been prompt in her arrival to breakfast but had only taken part in the porridge and fruit. Remaining quiet Levelle follows the group without comment.
As Arkadi moves forward to offer his assistance, Levelle looks off down the road otwards their intended destination and wonders aloud, Are we welcome to intercede on this towns behalf? Considering yesterday I wonder if we harm ourselves in inserting ourselves into their business...
The probable deputy observes Arkadi for a moment, as does the gaggle of peasants he was attempting to forestall. After a pregnant pause, he sighs and nods. "Knights, eh? Like as not, you all will be better help to the Sheriff than we," he says, his tone implying you foreigners with yer fancy educations and speechifying. He hitches a thumb down a dirt path towards the south east, running along the river. "Down there aways, passed ol' Gibs's shack you'll find 'im at the Memorial."
The "memorial" is the Harrowstone Memorial, erected to commemorate the sacrifice of the prison's warden Hawkran and the guards who perished in the blaze that destroyed the structure 50 years ago.
"Reckon we'll check it out, thank ye kindly deputy."
"My thanks. I'll do my best to be of service." He nods to the man, and only then seems to remember he has companions. Turning to the others he says, "I apologize, but duty compels me to investigate. While I fear this may be related to our interests, if any of you wish to not be delayed and go ahead I'll understand."
"Nah, might be fun to watch a knight in action. It won't hurt to get these people on our side either."
Uriah makes sure the fastening of his coat is open enough to show he is armed but that both weapons are firmly holstered and no threat to the local authorities.
Knight. Hah! This should be fun.
Uriah makes sure the fastening of his coat is open enough to show he is armed but that both weapons are firmly holstered and no threat to the local authorities.
Uriah makes sure the fastening of his coat is open enough to show he is armed but that both weapons are firmly holstered and no threat to the local authorities.
Kendra appears a bit anxious, tugging at the cuff of her sleeve. "I will await your return," she decides, and steps in beside the deputy.
You make your way down the path, and as the Deputy indicated, you come upon a rather dilapidated shack. Further up a ways, near the river you spot the monument, a lone sentry standing much larger than a man upon stone base. At it, as you approach, you see a man wearing a military issue long coat and a stetson investigating. He looks up as you approach, and crosses a half distance to where you are, holding up his hands in a warding gesture.
"Now see here," he says. "I don't know what Deputy Miles told you, but this is a sensitive area. I can't have a group of you tramping around here. There's little enough of use left to see, anyhow."
You are close enough to the memorial itself that you can see passed the lone investigator's blockade, and that the statue and its base have been defiled. The stench of blood and rot is carried by the breeze from the river to assault your nostrils
I'll wait with Kendra unless you need me to investigate something. I think it best she is not left alone. Levelle will step off with Kendra and wait while the others go on.