Vaghn der Grafft |
Hurray! Finally! :P
Vaghn looks up and blinks bleary-eyed as everyone enters. He gives his spectacles a quick polish and smiles wearily.
"Ah! Yes, um, hello all. The Pharasmans have some very thorough records here, yes. I've learned some things about Harrowstone; apparently it was quite the prison in its time, and is in fact the reason Ravengro exists in the first place. It seems the fire was started purposefully by some of the guards to prevent a full-scale breakout; the inmates had escaped and seized control of the lower levels. The Warden, his wife, and a score or so of guards died stopping them, but, thankfully for the town, stop them they did. Apparently there were five particularly notorious criminals imprisoned there when this happened, the worse Ustalav had to offer. I have a theory that it is one of them that interested the Way, perhaps some evil artifact or spell that was in their possession. I intend to research them more thoroughly in the days to come."
He stands and stretches.
"For now though, I think I need a bit of fresh air and a spot of tea."
TheReplacementGM |
It feels like days. With all the hours put in sorting through the Temple library, interviewing shop keepers and sheriffs, and just wandering about, you come to the collective conclusion that a simple meal and a good night's rest is in order.
While taking a break, your group takes an opportunity to share notes. Rendel and Vaghn share what they've learned in the library, telling the rest all about Harrowstone and theorizing as to why the Whispering Way might have an interest there.
Dortlin, for his part, shares what he knows about the Professor's death, telling the rest about his talk with Dhari.
Madeline, Creel, and Heinrich share their tale about the shopkeep, telling the rest about the book, his overall reluctance to work with them, and their encounters there. Then, they share what they've learned about the sheriff, the town, and Harrowstone from their end.
It doesn't take long for everyone to put a fairly accurate list of potential leads together, with Harrowstone topping the list.
As the sun sets, all of you take this collective information back the Lorrimor Estate, sharing the appropriate bits with young Kendra and Tharnik, both who seem interested in finding out more about Harrowstone. It seems, after you mention it, that Kendra recalls her father going there on occasion to learn more about the spirits there. She later tells you that while others do believe it's haunted, she can confirm the truth of it. She has detected, through arcane means, spirits there herself. She tells you that you had best be on your guard when you go. And better by day, of course.
With that, you all depart, bedding down for the evening as the sun crawls into the dark west, leaving the small town of Ravengro silent, except for the occasional howl in the distance.
When you awake early the next morning, the sun is hidden by clouds and the air smells of electricity. A light patter at the windows tells you one thing - it's raining.
Rendel Bladetwist |
As Rendel takes his breakfast he announces intent. "We should visit that tomb mentioned in the professor's notes before attempting to tackle Harrowstone directly. He mentioned protections. If there are ghosts involved then such protections might become very necessary indeed. My only question is whether or not to involve the curch of pharasma. I for one would like nothing more then their support in this particular matter to avoid any legal recourse. On the other hand if the Whispering Way has compromised the chruch I would not like to find myself walking into a trap or bein barred from the option entirely."
Creel |
"The good father seems a reasonable man I am sure he would allow us to use whatever is in that forgotton tomb. We are on Phrasma's business after all."
"As far as a trap it would at least let us identify our enemies."
_Dortlin_ |
Dortlin leaned back as he ruminated on all that he had learned in the past day.
"I've gotta wonder why Lorrimor didn't feel the need to share that with them. Indeed, like that journal says, he was plannin' on sneakin' in and out with that stuff. Now it seems to me there must be a reason to that."
I'm assuming that the journal was included along with the great sharing of information, hope that's okay.
Vaghn der Grafft |
"Well, as dusty as it was in there, I think we would do well to spend another few days in the temple's library. I think I could dig up some information on the five noteworthy prisoners that my research indicated were at the prison at the time; five evil souls, one of which might have clung to this world strongly enough to haunt the ruins, and maybe possessing information that the Way thought would help them. Forewarned is forearmed after all."
Rendel Bladetwist |
"He didn't think they even knew about it. Which may be true. We might eb doing them a favor by telling them. At the same time however we may run into difficulties. Plus, there is a chance the professor might have went before us and already retrieved whatever protection might be found. In that case finding it will be even more difficult as we won't even know what to look for."
Creel |
"If the place is so haunted, why don't we just go up and ask them...?" Madeline mutters more to herself than as a serious question.
"A good idea madame Peshtussle, unfortunately that would take necromantic magic we do not have access to. I agree with friend Bladetwist here. I think going with Dhari or the good father to the false tomb and taking a look would be the best path.
Beloved Replacement. Was it raining during/just before the wolf attack?
Vaghn der Grafft |
If we are planning on sneaking into the false crypt on our own I suggest waiting until dark. If we are planning to ask permission then let's go to the temple. Either way, and regardless of what we find, I suggest more research before going to Harrowstone.
Vaghn der Grafft |
Knowledge (religion) 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15
"You are correct that most forms of incorporeal undead are weakened, if not rendered all but powerless, by the light of the Sun, so yes, it would technically be safer during the day if any such beings exist among those ruins."
TheReplacementGM |
It takes you a few minutes to locate Father Grimburrow. Once you do, he listens to your request and then, after a few moments, replies, "Absolutely. If the previous caretakers of this Temple felt the need for such weapons, then logic would dictate their use would be warranted. I insist, however, that two of my acolytes accompany your group into this false crypt. Both Dhari and Ashwyn know the Restlands well. Seek them out."
Heinrich Strauss |
Heinrich stands arms crossed, deep in contemplation pondering research topics he abandoned at the University.
I'm beginning to wonder if my companions are as superstitious as the townsfolk. What danger could there be at a crypt in broad daylight? Mummies? Vampires?
Heinrich suddenly chuckles, unprovoked.
Old wives' tales have us jumping at our shadows. I'm sure this crypt is a nice, quiet place where a man could actually concentrate without distractions on an interesting book.
Heinrich is a "I don't believe it until I see it" type
Madeline Peshtussle |
As the group gathers outside (Or as they walk to their destination) Madeline raises her voice.
"Should we bring all of our equipment? I didn't think Smith would need the hammer, but now I am unsure." She looks at the others from under the brim of her hat. Ignoring the jeweled droplets of rain water that drip and glint in the day's grey light.
So, yes. Just checking to make sure that everyone has every thing and we are 'Kitted for bear', so to speak. =)
Creel |
As the group gathers outside (Or as they walk to their destination) Madeline raises her voice.
"Should we bring all of our equipment? I didn't think Smith would need the hammer, but now I am unsure." She looks at the others from under the brim of her hat. Ignoring the jeweled droplets of rain water that drip and glint in the day's grey light.
So, yes. Just checking to make sure that everyone has every thing and we are 'Kitted for bear', so to speak. =)
"Well we are opening an unknown tomb, beter safe that eviscerated I always say. Creel smiles. "If you could send Mr. Smith back to the Lorrimer residence and have him grab my shield and halberd. I would be grateful. He can meet us at the restlands. Oh, and there are 3 torches in my pack. Might be useful in the tomb."
Madeline Peshtussle |
Madeline nods at Mr Creel's words and looks to the others of the group,
"Does any one else wish Smith gather anything?" She asks, waiting for er companions to explain what they want, where it is located etc. Once things have been sorted out Madeline sends Smith off on his errand.
Edit: With a sigh, Madeline watches the slightly hunched figure of Smith trudge off into the drizzling rain. She smiles at her companions,
"I suppose I should help him carry some..." She says and starts off after her Man-servant.
Heh, an Eidolon is a very handy thing to have. Even if there are some 'strings' attached. *Bows* Thank'e Master Dm.
TheReplacementGM |
Is it safe to assume you demand Smith accompany you, instead?
Rendel Bladetwist |
Huh, I think it ate my earlier post.
Rendel has been standing there with a "well that was easy" look on his face.
"Bring me a hefty shaft of wood that can be easily gripped. Should be no longer then my sword and no shorter than my stake. Some thigns are just better handled with a club."
TheReplacementGM |
One of the best parts of the business lounge? Free wi-fi, free drinks, and loads of quiet! Also - updating our favorite PbP! I took the liberty of assuming one of you would look for Dhari and Ashwyn while Madeline and Mr.Smith were gathering gear at the Lorrimor place. So, when Madeline returns, we can jump right to the Restlands. Until then, feel free to chat up the npcs.
It takes Dhari and his companion Ashwyn a few minutes to gather all their gear, but they still manage to arrive before Madeline and Smith do. Each wears a simple, albeit nicely carved, holy symbol of Pharasma on a light steel chain. Each is dressed in heavy canvas work clothes, with reinforced leather patches sewn into critical locations. Small steel studs decorate the leather parts. Both wear maces on their sides, although they don't look like the sort to use them with any level of proficiency. Both carry shovels.
Dhari walks up to your group and asks, "So where is this false crypt Father Grimburrow says you've learned about? Do you have a map of any sort?"
Rendel Bladetwist |
Dortlin nodded at Dhari by way of greeting. "Hmph, I reckon they wanted to be prepared for somethin'. Though I don't guess there's ever been any cause to use it, given you all forget it was even there. Anyway. Kinda curious what you'd use to combat spirits, outside of a holy man."
"Depends on the spirits." Rendel says. "Sunlight, certain magic, most magic actually can harm them to a degree, circles of salt have been said to ward some off depending on what they were, ghosts in aprticular can be vulnerable to things that were sentimental to them in life, barring that grave dirt or their actual body seems to have an effect."
Creel |
Creel looks at the armed acolytes and frowns. "Nice to meet you Dhari, Ashwin. It is good you are taking this seriously. We hope everything will be peaseful but you never know..." "Tell me have there been any disturbences in the restlands lately? I ask because the armor does not look new-purchased."
Heinrich Strauss |
Heinrich stood by patiently while Creel and the others chatted with the Pharasmans.
He took a mental inventory of all of his alchemical components.
Six... seven... eight. Yes, that should be sufficient. Although if I see some wild bloodwort about town, I should pick some, as it will be most...
As his mental inventory completed, he was surprised to see the discussion about ghosts and spirits still continued on.
Superstitious townsfolk... I wonder how many have spotted a yeti in their woods?
TheReplacementGM |
Gen Con = Win.
Dhari and Ashwyn address Creel first, saying "The armor isn't new, no. We are charged with protecting the Temple and, when the Lady of Graves demands it, bringing final rest to the dead that endeavor to persist among the living. In a small town like this, superstitious as it is, we are rarely called upon to do the latter. Of course, from what Father Grimburrow has shared with us, this may change if your group is right."
Dhari then turns to Dortlin and says,"One does not forget what one does not know. Father Grimburrpw has only recently - along with many of us - taken over this Temple. Its prior caretakers may have shared this information with Professor Lorrimor, but not us. The information may also have simply slipped into obscurity over time, as well. I truly can't say."
With that, Dhari and Ashwyn began to walk toward the Restlands.
Ashwyn, quiet up to this point, looks back and asks "Coming?"
Creel |
Right behind you! Creel smiles at the divines as he slings his shield on his back and steadies his gear for the walk.
"What a lovely day." he says to no one in particular as the rain begins to soak into his cloak.
Creel |
Testing the heft of the club Rendel nods and follows behind.
Had an out of character revelation earlier that Rendel will have later at a more appropriate time. Rendel will probably be kicking himself over it for a while. Just thought I'd share.
Well that's nice and mysterious.
TheReplacementGM |
Your walk from the Temple of Pharasma to the Restlands is short but pleasant. Although it was raining earlier in the morning when you awoke, it appears to have cleared for now, the sun peeking out from behind the heavy, grey clouds that have followed you all morning.
Nonetheless, the earth below your feet is still muddy, wet from last night's rain. The grass, in small and well-trimmed patches, glistens. Even the black iron gates that surround the Restlands seem a little newer, shining from the light playing off the rain.
Overall, the Restlands seem peaceful.
Taking you to the address you offered him on the walk over, Dhari and Ashwyn lead you to an ancient looking crypt. The crypt is simple, with the etching of a tall woman hovering slightly above a grave. In her outstretched hands, she holds a scale and a sickle.
The door itself is sturdy, made from what appears to be a solid granite. It has a greenish color to it.