Jubilation fills the evening air in the normally staid town of Trunau, for it is the twelfth birthday of the Chief Defender’s youngest daughter, Ruby, and the townsfolk have been preparing all day for the ceremony and festivities to follow. A throng of spectators has amassed at the town Commons; the buzz of the crowd subsides as the weathered town leader, Halgra of the Blackened Blades, takes the stage and begins to speak.
“Thank you all for joining us this night. I take immense pride in my responsibility as Chief Defender, especially when it comes to the honor of the hopeknife ceremony. It is always a great privilege to bequeath Trunauan youths their hopeknives as they come of age.” Halgra stops speaking long enough to open an ornamental case and retrieve a slender, ornately decorated dagger hanging from a silver chain.
“But tonight is a special occasion, for the recipient of this hopeknife is none other than my youngest daughter.” Once again, Halgra pauses, but this time she turns to talk to the child beside her. “Ruby, by the traditions of our town, you have come of age. This hopeknife represents your responsibilities as an adult and defender of Trunau. You must be willing to use it on yourself, your fellow Trunauans, and your family—even me, should it come to that. It will be a far quicker death than that which the orcs will offer, and providing it is your duty. Do you swear to guard Trunau from all comers, and to use your hopeknife only for its intended purpose?” Ruby—dusky skinned, black haired, and painfully shy—nods her head in response to her mother’s question.
“If the orcs come, and there is no other option, this is where you cut—here, here, and here.” Halgra demonstrates which arteries to sever while Ruby watches. When she is finished, Halgra sheathes the hopeknife and places the necklace around Ruby’s neck before turning back to address the crowd. “Tonight, Ruby becomes a full member of our community! Let us welcome her, and celebrate her passage into adulthood! Trunau forever!” The crowd echoes Halgra’s last words in unison, signaling the end of the ceremony.
After Halgra finishes her speech the towns folk transition into a more jovial mood as the traditional Hopeknife ceremony games are about to begin. The first game, as anyone who has spent some time in Trunau knows, is a tug of war. The match takes place between The child’s chosen and members of the guard, today’s game includes both of the Grath brothers. Rodrick announces the game and tells Ruby to go pick out her champions. After a short time of starin downwards Ruby half skips half runs through the crowd taps on each of you thereby selecting you as a member of her team. When she taps Roosevelt she specifically mentions “You not Toorg, Roo.” When selecting Ragha and Malthu Ruby is a bit more timid, but eventually taps both of you on the shoulder. For Romar and Rurik she decides to be a bit funny and taps you both on your head as she is equal or almost equal height as you two. You all take your position at the rope. This is a weird mini game, I’m just going to roll it out.
At first there seems to be trouble as the guards are able to easily pull you guys 5 ft forward. However after that point your group easily pulls them back. After a few standoffs where no one moves some of you may notice Rodrick Grath toss you guys a wink as you then easily pull the militia men into the mud. After this the crowd erupts into cheers and hoists Ruby into the air. After a few more game, which you are not selected for the event moves into a festival with foods and drinks to be partaken in.
After some time you either find yourselves together at a table or Rodrick corrals you all together.
What do your characters do between the tug of war and Rodrick? Do they stick together? also roll kn. local or diplomacy for gossip as you move about the festival.
Rormar faces Ruby. "Pretty strong there for a 12 year old, I have to say. I think you did half the pulling."
Rormar then swivels around to address the rest of the group, "That got me worked up a bit," he then scans the crowd quickly before turning back to the group, "Anyone interested in seeing if there's anything else we can sink out teeth into around here?"
As Ruby picks her out of the crowd Ragha curtsies, "It would be my honor." Her voice is a lot sweeter and softer than her appearance makes one expect.
After the tug of war Ragha passes by Ruby to high five her. Afterwards she kneels and whispers in the girl's ear, "When you're a little older and you have trouble with boys you know where to find my. I can teach you a trick or two." She offers the girl a smile and a conspiratory wink before moving into the crowd.
It took some time but it seemed most at least tolerated Ragha these days and many were happy to talk with her on a festive day like this.
Before the food and drinks Ragha moves to the table where Ruby and her family are seated. She speaks up, raising her voice, "Before we all dig in I'd say we honor young Ruby here with a song. I'll start but you're all free to join in any time you like." After that she starts in the most common birthday song of the area. Her singing voice is beautiful, if sometimes a little rough around the edges.
Posting basically about anytime between the start of the tug of war and Rodrick rounding you all up.
As Ragha leaves Ruby, Roosevelt goes up to the birthday girl. "Nice job, kid. Now, remember what I told you the other day about that knife-it's damn useful for a ton of other stuff...just don't let your mom catch you."
During the party, Roosevelt (in typical fey fashion) flitted around from guest to guest, talking with as many people as he could about pretty much everything.
He eventually finds himself next to Halgra. "They grow up so fast, don't they? Seems like just yesterday she was...slightly smaller than she is now. At least now she can protect herself, me and Toorg can sleep a bit better at night. Well...I can, at least. Toorg just kinda stands there next to my bed at night, staring. It's really kind of creepy if you're not used to it. But I digress."
Romar you only have to walk about 30ft. before you find some delicous food.
Before you perform,Ragha, Halgra gives you a hesitant gaze and looks as if she is about to speak, but as you begin the birthday song that quickly turns to a smile as the crowd all is very pleased by the performance and joins in after a brief pause.
"Roosevelt are you saying that I can't protect my own. You helped me out once, but don't think thats the usual pattern, Ruby has always been a wanderer. I would also prefer that she never has to use that knife, FOR ANYTHING." passing you a knowing gaze.
"Halgra, you know I'm not saying you can't protect your own. And I have no idea what you're talking about when you say she should never use that knife. No idea at all..."
"My little ones tell me much." She then returns to the festivities.
Pretty strong there for a 12 year old, I have to say. I think you did half the pulling.
Rurik adds in with a wide grin, "With her strength we could have won against twice the men!".
Anyone interested in seeing if there's anything else we can sink out teeth into around here?
In response Rurik gives him a hearty pat on the shoulder and replies, "I could sure use some grub... and a drink while we're at it! First round of drinks on me!"
Rurik half waddles, half walks over to the bar and asks the bartender, "Bartender, ya got anything non-alchoholic behind there?"
The bartender gives Rurik a strange stare before saying "Really? uh maybe some milk, but that's meant for the children. A little something shiny might help me help some find its way into an ale stein. I assume the rest of your party wants something a little stronger though." and pours a set of steins with ale. to match whoever is still with Rurik and Rormar.
Rormar saunters over with Rurik (after picking up a roasted fowl leg from the nearby table), after hearing that the first round is on him and being never one to pass up a free drink.
"Ah, Perfect, just what I was asking for" as Rormar picks up the stein. He then turns to Rurik, "This is awfully generous of you, many thanks." saying it with a hearty grin on his face.
"I'm not usually one for parties, but I suppose it's not every day the Chief Defender's daughter comes of age. They oudid themselves this time, I really am enjoying myself. By the way, I don't believe we've formally met, the names Rormar , it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance"
Rurik places 5 cp on the counter, "My thanks"
I'm not usually one for parties ... By the way, I don't believe we've formally met, the names Rormar ...
"Rormar! The pleasure is mine! My name's Rurik. I believe I've seen you out on patrols before... Any recent news beyond the walls? I usually provide my services to protect caravans traveling through Belkzen, but trades been slow as of late, so I haven't been beyond the palisade in a while.
The bartender does not look pleased with the paltry bribe.
Rormar notices the bartender's discontent and hastily throws out a few coins, which ends up being 5 sp, 50 cp.
"Sorry about my friend, he must be distracted by all the festivities, please, keep the change." Rormar says with exasperation.
Ay, who have I sat next to...All I came here for was a free drink, and now I'm buying the round
Time to jump forward in time to about 7pm. You are all corralled together again by the Grath brothers. Rodrick says “Excellent work today in the tug of war.” And presents you all with a refill of whatever you were drinking. “I’ve noticed you all around town, but never got the chance to really talk to you. Today was a good day. There have been few of those these days. Trouble seems to be a foot. But lets not sully the good mood, tell me how have you all been getting along here in Trunau?” As he is talking to you, you notice people watching you, not so much you as Rodrick, especially the ladies. As your characters are all probably aware Rodrick is THE MAN, the golden child of the town. His brother less so. He seems to be content to live in his brother's large shadow, he isn't unskilled or clumsy, just lacks the bravado.
Rurik replies, "I've had my ups and downs these past couple of weeks..."
He looks down sullenly, but just as suddenly perks back up, "But the festivities have definitely made this week a good one! It's nice to see everyone laughing and having a good time. It's important for our town to take some time off and enjoy ourselves at least once in a while."
Kurst replies "Uhh, yes it is nice to see this festival. It came at a good time, hopefully we can figure a few things" realizing he is probably saying to much he pauses and glances at his brother. Rodrick rolls his eyes, as if to say come on Kurst, but eventually nods "out, while the mood is still good."
Before any of you have a chance to reply Rodrick asks "So Roosevelt when are you joining the militia to do your time? You've got a hopeknife better truly earned it. Too much longer and Halgra might come under fire. That knife says your a true Trunauan, true natives serve."
"Trunau has been treating me reasonably well. As well as can be expected by someone like me considering fighting Orcs is the lifework of many people here." She smiled. "At least I get peace and quiet here."
Facing toward Malthu and Ragha, "I agree where you're coming from, I, and probably many from here, would be hard-pressed to say we like an orc. On the other hand, I fully respect half orcs for having the strength and courage and choosing to break away from their clan and come here."
Rormar then turn toward the Grath brothers. "Enough of this though, I tire of the discussion of feelings, and you two are not telling us something."
"There is nothing a foot that citizens need be aware of at the moment." retorts Kurst. "There are things the milita is working on, but there is no danger currently." while bluntly staring at Rormar.
Roll perceptions or sense motive on Rodrick to see his reaction. We'll say DC 15
Rormar in his slightly intoxicated state starts trying to dig through his mind. As he remembers, his eyes subtly widen, and he says "Yes, of course, and there are always things that the militia is working on, so nothing out of the ordinary." He turns his head and slightly smiles toward the rest of the group. As he turns back toward Kurst, "Sorry for intruding on your business.
Rormar then walks over to a chair to continue enjoying his stout.
Rurik leans in closely to Malthu and Rormar, "Agreed, those two are definitely up to something".
Rormar, Malthu, and Rurik you guys are now approached by Cham Larringfass owner of the Ramblehouse. "Gentlemen where are you staying this fine evening, I know many of you have your own homes or places to stay, but i insist that you spend the evening with me at the Ramblehouse or if you already stay with me an upgrade to stay with your friends this evening, Free of charge. On the condition you spread word of your wonderful stay of course. Plus Rodrick is staying the evening as well. The Ramblehouse will be the safest place in all of Trunau tonight. I won't take no for an answer." She then walks away motioning to follow. "Don't worry I'll bring along the other two when they finish talking to the Graths."
if you guys take to long she will turn around and shout "NOW NOW."
Ragha and Roosevelt I am considering you guys to still be talking to the Grath brothers.
Rormar looks up with surprise at seeing Cham appear so suddenly. "Well, Matlhu, Rurik, if I look even half as bad as you two do right now, I'd be dumb to try to make it home, but this means we can do another round, right!?"
"So, Cham, you doing this for any of the other guests tonight? Or are we the chosen few? I thaqnk you profusely, and I'll let your hospitality be known around the longhouse."
Whispering she replies "You're heroes of the day. Anyone is of course welcomed. I'd be losing far too much money to offer the same deal to all."
You can now probably deduce she is using your status of the day to draw in business. She wants people to see you all entering and think hey that's a good idea. I'll stay here tonight.
After thinking for a second, Rurik replies to the three of them, "Well, I'm never one to pass up a free night's stay. Especially if it means company and a warm fire."
He adds after, with a wink, "And many thanks Cham, I'll make sure to let everyone know where we are staying tonight."
Rurik also amusedly thinks to himself, "I don't look that ugly do I?"
Cham Shows you three to a great room in the inn. Based on all of your backstories this is probably one of the nicest rooms you have stayed in. At least in a while. She opens the door next to it as well and says "disperse yourselves in these two rooms as you see fit." There are a total of 5 beds in the two rooms. She then returns outside to gather Ragha and Roosevelt when they finish talking to the Graths.
"Fantastic! We've been doing pretty well together, do you two want to join me tonight?" Rormar exclaims as he gestures wildly toward the room with three beds.
"Oh man, the lads at the longhouse are going to be jealous tomorrow."
"Since we're here, and it's still maybe a bit early to sleep, and I don't know much about you.... Anything you have planned for the near future?"
Roosevelt shifts a bit uncomfortably in his chair. "I mean...I help out around town, don't I? Ask Cham, the Ramblehouse has never been cleaner. And I don't mean to brag, but uhh...I'm kind of indirectly the reason we're even having a party today. Kinda. And you know, I'm always available for whatever you need from me. Now, it seems like my friends have disappeared somewhere. I should probably get going-have a nice evening, you guys."
Roosevelt makes his way back to the Ramblehouse, where he rents a small room for him and Toorg.
Ragha feel free to ask a question or two to the Graths using a spoiler or a quote type format, but to get the plot moving I'm going to assume you eventually also join the others at the Bramblehouse at the aggressive behest of Cham, if necessary .
Roosevelt Cham quietly refuses your gold. "Your friends are already here. Up on the third floor there are two rooms for you five. Just be sure you are seen as a group tomorrow morning, honey" and winks.
Feel free to continue talking amongst yourselves for a bit, but the evening, after you go to bed, passes without event. You all awake refreshed and around the same time. Those of you that had imbibed in alcohol are surprisingly not hungover. However you guys can faintly hear a large commotion on the first floor. If you look outside you will see a large crowd gathered in front of the Ramblehouse. What do?
As all her companions from earlier that day depart Ragha looks at the two brothers. "If it is anything involving the Bearslayer tribe you know where to find me. Halgra comes to me for insight on them so I don't see why you can't. But I think Cham desires my presence so I'd better go. Keep safe you two."
After giving the brothers one last smile Ragha leaves the table
At the Ramblehouse Ragha is rather annoyed as she heads back downstairs to Cham, "Do you honestly expect my to bunk down with a bunch of men I hardly even know? I can't. I won't."
As you settle into the bed you realize Cham was right on both accounts it is small for you size, but easily one of the most comfortable beds Ragha has ever slept in. You are not awoken by Cham as she rises before sunrise to start getting things ready in the inn for today, you are far to comfortable and used to noise to let a little thing like her disturb your rest. You are however are awoken by the sound of a large number of people entering the inn and moving quickly past the door. You instantly stir and rise, a bit afraid that they are here for you. But the move past to what sounds like the room a few doors down. You quietly exit the room and do see several milita members and catch a glimpse of Kurst entering the room a few doors down. YOu exit into the main room of the inn and hear wailing coming from behind the bar. As you investigate the noise you see Cham curled up as small as possible just covered in tears and snot. She keeps repeating "Why, why , why, why would he do that. We need him. He can't be gone." Ragha, you approach her and ask "Who is gone Cham?"
She nearly shouts back at you "Rodrick Grath IS DEAD. OH GODS! OH MY GODS!"
"You mean you used to be even stronger than you are now?" Rormar quickly glances at his own body and subtly flexes before a mixture of awe and inadequacy flashes over his face.
Maybe I should be the one working on my strength here, but I suppose muscle isn't everything.
He quickly recomposes himself and states "I've got a bit of family business to conduct, been here for 20 years and I've put it off for a bit too long, and I'm growing anxious. Thinking about it, I should probably put in my two month notice soon, so they don't send me out on any more long excursions."
In response to Rormar and Malthu, "Nothing planned either, just waiting for business to pick back up, it's been quite slow lately. I mentioned to Rormar earlier that I protect caravan's and travelers passing through the Belkzens, but I think more and more orc raiding parties have been scaring people away. And that's quite nice that you help at the Sanctuary, do you worship Iomedae as well, if you don't mind me asking?"
When Rurik wakes the next morning:
He thinks to himself, "That's odd, wonder what the commotion is downstairs?"
As he rolls out of bed and stumbles groggily to the door, he notices through the window the people gathered outside of the Ramblehouse.
When he gets to the door, he tries, to open it quietly to listen to the commotion downstairs, but in his sleepy stupor he trips over his feet, slams headfirst into the door which swings open, whacking against the wall the wall with a loud Thud. Rurik looks sheepishly at Malthu and Rormar, and shrugs with an apologetic look on his face.
As far as you can tell it's just townsfolk. You can't tell their mood.
After you make the loud thud. A militia man come up the stairs. He tells you "all 4 or five of you need to get dressed and come downstairs now. Wake Roosevelt and his thing if that thud didn't do it."
He isn't angry or aggressive just blunt and prompt.
"Yes Sir!" Rormar then dons the clean short and breaches he conveniently was carrying around with him during the party last night.
Hopefully this isn't getting out of hand, we don't need any more unrest at the moment, he thinks as readjusts the shirt to sit well on him.
"You guys ready for whatever is going on downstarirs?" Rormar says toward Malthu and Rurik as he gingerly steps over the prone Rurik to knock on Roosevelt's door.
Knock knock knock...... "Room service!"
Don't see any sign of Ragha, she must be downstairs already
I'm sure you out rank the guy who came up stairs Rormar. Not that it matters much. Unless you're still a private.
"I'm not sure. There was a lot of blood I fainted. and when i awoke i was out here. OH! RODRICK" she is starting to calm down, but still whimpers a few times.
Eventually Kurst comes back out, about 10 minutes, and what you assume is Rodrick's body is brought out along side him the men carrying the body continue out the door. He comes over to you. "Ragha I know this is a bit prompt, but I uh.. have a favor to ask of you and the other folk from the Tug of War. I sent one of my men up to retrieve them. Please wait here for them. Thank you..." He is surprisingly calm even though his brother was just found dead. Maybe even stoic.
Are the rest of you three right behind Malthu?
Roosevelt answers his door, looking groggy and holding a cup of coffee. "Rormar? What's going on? There's a commotion going on outside, what's up?"
"Not a clue, but a militiaman just told us to come down immediately" Rormar answers Roosevelt before he quickly leaves to catch Malthu going down the stairs. "I'll see you down there!"
"Huh. Wonder what's going on." Roosevelt remarks to himself as he heads out. "Come on, Toorg old buddy!" Wordlessly, the treant lumbers out of their room and follows him downstairs.