Jak leans back in his chair. The long march to Albridge ending with an immediate investigation is leaving him with barely the energy to think straight. Regardless, he musters whatever brainpower he has left to think through the day.
"Well," he says, keeping his voice low out of paranoia, "I'm not really sure what to think just yet. It's hard to discount that this whole thing happened after our black mist and they had all the undead and wildlife stuff. I haven't seen anything that says this was an unnatural kinda murder, but then I can't really make heads or tails of much of it. And there are only a handful of things I think we've uncovered that Albridge's own didn't find."
He spends a few moments considering the things they did discover. "One thing did stand out to me, though."
He idly spins his mom's ring on it's leather cord, "According to Jannys and her husband, Philmore wasn't really known to be a green thumb before his 'string of good years'. He had just as hard a time working the fields as everyone else. Then he suddenly has a few good seasons, making enough coin to begin buying up the land around his. It apparently causes the understandable disgruntlement of the people whose farms and livelihoods he purchased… though nothing more than bad words and hurt feelings seemed to come of it. That was five years ago, and he's done pretty good for himself in the time since… living a quiet, isolated life. Then, a few weeks ago, Jannys notices that Philmore's getting more withdrawn. Brooding or worried. He even mentioned to Jannys that maybe he should give back some of the lands or give it to the town. Then he turns up dead. In a violent but seemingly calculated manner if that needle is any indicator."
Jak leans forward in fatigue, cupping and dry-washing his face with both hands. "It feels like I'm trying to shake hands with Old Grey, but this is the only thread I could pull out of what we found. And even assuming that turn of events has anything to do with his murder, it doesn't tell us who did it or why, really… only a suggestion that it may have had to do with his possibly deciding to turn his lands back over to someone else." He looks over at the bone-setter, "And it certainly doesn't help account for that needle in the throat thing."
"It feels like I'm trying to shake hands with Old Grey, but this is the only thread I could pull out of what we found. And even assuming that turn of events has anything to do with his murder, it doesn't tell us who did it or why, really… only a suggestion that it may have had to do with his possibly deciding to turn his lands back over to someone else."
"Jak, I think you are right. I think Philmore knew something that threatened his life and he was eager to give back the land back for that reason. Perhaps we should actually investigate the land tomorrow. Maybe there is something on the land that may have changed his mind. What if he was compelled to take the land by some evil power, and he started having second thoughts about following through with the wishes of the evil? Maybe he lost his life when he stopped cooperating. I don't know, Jak, the needle makes me think it was somebody, but the brooding and the worry do not fit unless he was under a great deal of pressure from somebody else."
I can help you search Philmore's land tomorrow, but I think Aerik should take Zeke and Jak to see Victahana. It wouldn't be smart to ignore what may be another part of the prophecy, and if she is a suspect than maybe they can see something we missed the first time around. Might be wise to talk to some of the folks that sold their land to Philmore, too.
Thinking back, Marcus believes that on the night Philmore died a set of bloody horns (Outsiders) rode the moon.
Jak nods, "I'm happy to look in on Victahana, but I definitely would like to be a part of the interviews with the other folks. It may or may not turn anything up, but their perspectives on the Philmore issue may prove useful... at least I'm hoping."
He looks back over at Lyrica, "Yah, I hate to speculate too much, but that series of events seems like it could mean something. Hopefully more questions will turn up some more leads."
"Anyone else have any thoughts on the needle? More than anything else we found at Philmore's house or on his body... that stands out. Would a practiced seamstress have that kind of ability? Or are we specifically looking for someone with healing expertise like Zeke?"
"It'd have to be someone skilled in the human body to pull off what they did. I'd say someone trained like myself most likely. Wouldn't necessarily have to be for helping people though. The art of healing isn't that different than the art of killing. It's mostly about how you implement it. I dobut a seamstress would have done this, but a healer might have. Perhaps someone skilled at taxidermy, but they'd have to know more about how our bodies are built." Ezekiel pauses a moment in thought.
"Tomorrow, I'd like to talk to this Victahana as well. But if we do split up, make sure to keep an eye out on anyone you talk to. Whoever did this is mighty dangerous, don't want to see anyone here hurt dealing with them."
"The needle and the tongue convinces me that somebody did not want Philmore speaking. I wonder he had a journal or if anybody could speak with the dead. I imagine that would prove rather useful."
Thinking back, Marcus believes that on the night Philmore died a set of bloody horns (Outsiders) rode the moon.
Jak nods, "I'm happy to look in on Victahana, but I definitely would like to be a part of the interviews with the other folks. It may or may not turn anything up, but their perspectives on the Philmore issue may prove useful... at least I'm hoping."
Agreed--I think that you'll get more useful information out of them than the Sybil, just didn't want to ignore the fact that she might have knowledge of more of the prophecy.
"It'd have to be someone skilled in the human body to pull off what they did. I'd say someone trained like myself most likely. Wouldn't necessarily have to be for helping people though. The art of healing isn't that different than the art of killing. It's mostly about how you implement it. I dobut a seamstress would have done this, but a healer might have. Perhaps someone skilled at taxidermy, but they'd have to know more about how our bodies are built."
That's possible, Doc. But these folk seem like good people, and I can't figure why anyone would want to kill Philmore, 'specially in such a fashion. This torture, it's someone--or something--that likes to hurt and kill. As I recall, the moon was horned when Philmore was murdered. He was no great farmer, but has success out of nowhere? Then he wants to give the land back, right before this happens? I think he was bargaining with dark forces and got scared when he knew the demon was coming to collect. Don't know how much y'all know about demons and such, but if you have any knowledge on 'em could be useful, now's the time to tell it. Course, our weapons being 'anointed' and all, they could work, I suppose.
Jak thinks back on all the stories his mother told him about devils, demons and other outsiders... hoping to come across anythign that will help them prepare if they are actually up against one of their ilk here in Albridge.
"To be honest, I didn't even consider that line of thinking." The bonesetter runs both hands through his hair, resting them on back of his head looking down at the table. A moment passes before looking back around. "If that is indeed the case of what we're dealing with here, we might be in for some serious trouble. Depending on what the moon brings tonight, we best be wary ourselves. I'd venture we try to alternate someone staying awake, keep an eye out for signs of trouble."
"Well, it's all speculation at this point, but I guess it's smart to play it safe."
Jak tries to stifle a yawn with a fist, "Unless we have something else to chat about.. .I gotta hit the hay. Especially if I'm taking a watch shift tonight."
The Druid finally speaks up after quietly taking in the theories posited by his companions.
"I can't say I know too much about devils or demons or the like, but the mist.... Well, we know it can take folk, and we know it can get in the dead and make em walk again. What if it could get in someone alive and make em do things? Then it could be anyone...."
Jak stands, rolling tired shoulders as he looks at the group, "Not sure what there is to tell about demons, devils, or anything at this point. From everything ma said, they'd cerainly be cruel enough to do something like this. And there are no lack of stories of people making deals with that sort... but short of that..."
He shrugs, "If we are dealing with something like that, and once we can narrow down what kind is at work, maybe I can come up with soothing."
He looks over at Aerik, "That's certainly true. Which leaves us where we started... looking for more information."
"I had concerns that it might be a powerful outsider of sorts. Murder does not sound like the sort of thing good villagers would do, regardless of how they felt about someone."
"Depending on what the moon brings tonight, we best be wary ourselves. I'd venture we try to alternate someone staying awake, keep an eye out for signs of trouble."
"I agree completely. The enemy may likely be watching us, especially as we come closer to uncovering the truth. I am happy to take watch for a period."
How much would Lyrica know about demons and devils? Would she know their traits and resistances?
Daemons (NE) thrive on ruin - immune to acid, death, disease, and poison with variable resistance to Cold, Electricity, and Fire.
Demons (CE) come from the Abyss - immune to electricity and poison, with variable resistance to Acid, Cold, and Fire.
Devils (LE) come from Hell - immune to fire and poison, with variable resistance to Acid and Cold.
"Not sure what there is to tell about demons, devils, or anything at this point. From everything ma said, they'd cerainly be cruel enough to do something like this. And there are no lack of stories of people making deals with that sort... but short of that..."
"Well, I've never experienced one, but from what I've learned, I know that demons and devils come from the planes of the abyss and the hells respectively. I also know that devils are bound by laws and rules unlike demons, who are creatures who thrive on chaos and destruction. Both creatures have many resistances and immunities that will make fighting them rather difficult. For example, devils are completely immune to fire and demons are completely immune to electricity. They are also both very resistant to acid and cold. Whatever else is to be said, I think we can agree that these are not creatures we want to face!"
"Right, but I'm not sure how any of that helps us determine if any of those creatures are actually involved here. And if they are, which ones? And once we know that, then maybe we can consider how to beat it." He finishes with a shrug.
Jak stands up, "It seems like we have more than enough to do tomorrow, and I'm beat. Anyone have anything else we need to chat about? Otherwise, come get me when it's my watch."
At the point of diminishing returns in their theorizing, our heroes wave goodnight to Regis (who obsessively gives the nearly empty bar a quick wipe) and head to their beds in their two rented rooms. As they fall asleep, they hope that tomorrow's investigations will provide more answers than questions...
Our heroes sleep well and deep... in real beds after nearly two weeks of bedding down on the ground. They wake up as dawn breaks, not from any real desire to get up but rather due to the shuffling noises and muted talk from downstairs. Looking out the window, they see that the folk of Albridge assembling in small groups, wearing somber clothes and more somber faces. It seems the local tradition is to conduct burials at dawn. A wagon - led by Galt and a mule - carries Philmore's coffin and rolls back and forth through town collecting the townsfolk in it's wake. Presently, Regis leaves the Inn and moves along with the townsfolk up toward the church, following the impromptu hearse. The Inn descends into silence as you watch.
Lyrica wakes up and gets dressed.
"Good morning, Folks, I think I am going to attend Philmore's funeral and see if I can gather any more information that may help our investigation."
She then proceeds downstairs and outside to witness the funeral. She doesn't say too much, but she spends time watching people. She takes notes of their reactions and listens to comments that any may make. She wonders if perhaps she can gather any clues or further information from the processional and the funeral.
She doesn't say too much, but she spends time watching people. She takes notes of their reactions and listens to comments that any may make.
You can also use Diplomacy to gather information about a specific topic or individual. To do this, you must spend at least 1d4 hours canvassing people at local taverns, markets, and gathering places. The DC of this check depends on the obscurity of the information sought, but for most commonly known facts or rumors it is 10. For obscure or secret knowledge, the DC might increase to 20 or higher. The GM might rule that some topics are simply unknown to common folk.
Canvass - to solicit votes, subscriptions, opinions, or the like from.
Lyrica (and anyone else who attends) finds the funeral a sad and quiet event. Father Galt provides the eulogy, speaking about Philmore's character as well as his generosity. His comments are greeted with nods from many people. Jannys also speaks briefly of her old friend and Davril recounts a few fond memories of the man. In the end, Galt commits his soul to the Gods as his body is committed to the funeral pyre. As Philmore's earthly remains are consumed, Galt recites a litany of prayers to the dead, from several different Gods. Finally, he addresses the unstated concerns of the assembled mourners.
"Friends, we've faced difficult days since the moon turned to blood. But we've weathered that storm well by working together. Now, a closer, horrid event has struck at the heart of our community - sewing fear. I ask you to stay together, work together, and trust in your neighbors. The elders of Albridge and our new visitors are working tirelessly to uncover the truth behind this murder. Our efforts are bent on that goal and no other. So, please, stay calm and stay safe. Gods' speed, my friends."
Some people stay to console or speak with one another but many others head back to their homes. A frisson of fear is palpable among many. Lyrica sees and hears nothing that seems unusual or revealing. No one acts strangely, seems pleased with Philmore's death, or seems worry-free in this stressful time.
Lyrica will observe quietly and if spoken to, will offer words of comfort. When the service is finished, she approaches the coffin and says a prayer for Philmore.
"Oh guiding Dawnflower, I ask you to comfort and protect Philmore in his transition from life to death. Forgive him for all his failings and shine upon him your healing light. For us mortals who remain behind, I ask you to shine your light down in all of our lives that we may follow your will, forgive each other, and bring goodness to the lives we live and the people we meet. May you ever protect us from evil. I humbly ask this in your name. Amen."
When she is finished, she will return to the inn to rejoin the others.
Lyrica returns to the Inn as another day of labor begins. Regis returns from the funeral shortly thereafter, apologizing for his tardiness when he see the party members are all awake. He quickly whips up and serves breakfast, mortified to keep his guests waiting. Not as quickly as the meal is presented, is it eaten. Regis sets a good table and our crew is in no particular hurry to start their day. It is perhaps an hour later when the table is cleared.
Our heroes leave the Inn and consider what tasks to accomplish and in what order as they enter the square that comprises the town center. Their embryonic plans are put on hold as a set of high, shrill, screams sound from somewhere to their left - the West side of town.
"That was a mighty fine breakfast indeed, Regis. Fine indeed this morning." Zeke keeps cheerful expression up despite the grim circumstances of the day.
After leaving the inn. "So where are we starting first, Vichtana or the farms? I'd say let's get the seer out of the way first myself, give people a chance to get some work done before we intrude. Might be a little happier for a break to speak with us then as well."
Jak—after waking up far too late to attend the funeral, and after strapping on arms and armor as he imagines a heroic investigator might use —is about to make a light-hearted response to Ezekiel when he scream pulls him up short.
There is a half-second where he just looks at the others before he bolts towards the screams… making a b-line directly towards them. As he runs, he tries to keep his eyes peeled, hoping to be able to spy any threats before they spy him and—if possible—approach them from an unseen angle.
Jak races down the road following the echoing remnants of the high, girlish, screams. When the sounds fade, he is able to follow the wide-eyed stares of the locals. They lead him quickly to the source of the vanished screams - the Pegason house - white-washed fence and all. It stands silent, waiting.
After hearing the scream, Lyrica becomes on high alert. "This sounds like trouble, but I've got to put on my armor. Can one of you please give me a hand. If my instinct is correct, I will be grateful to have this on."
Lyrica dons her armor and once geared up, she will race out to catch up with Zeke and Jak. When she reaches the house, she asks, "What is going on? I heard screaming. Is everything ok here?"
Marcus perks up at the sound, and glances sideways at Lyrica.
Whoever that is has less protection than you right now. Forget the armor, or she could be dead by the time we get there. C'mon!
He picks up his axe and shield and runs after Jak.
"Whoever that is has less protection than you right now. Forget the armor, or she could be dead by the time we get there. C'mon!"
"You run along without me! I will be there in just a few minutes. If it is some evil outsider, I will be ready for battle! Go and make sure that she is alright!"
Lyrica sprints to the Inn, bounds up the stairs three at a time, bursts through the bedroom door, and grabs her armor...
While Jak, Marcus, Aerik, and Zeke streak down the side path and arrive at the now-silent Pegason house.
Jak does his best to approach the house quickly but quietly, using the fence and whatever other cover he can to mask his approach from whatever may be inside.
As he reaches the side of the ominously-quiet house, he takes a moment to turn back to his friends, holding a finger in front of his lips to suggest stealth. It's at this moment that he realizes with a concerned scowl that Lyrica isn't with them. Putting that out of his mind, he peeks through whatever window is closest to him, straining with eyes and ears for hints of endangered townsfolk or threats.
Jak sneaks onto the porch and peers through a window. He sees the living room in which they sat yesterday, sharing drinks. Tamor, Janny's husband, is sprawled in a chair. You'd think he's napping but for the massive wound that's opened his belly like a slashed bag of grain. His intestines have spooled out and gathered on the floor. Even from here, it is obvious he is dead.
Aerik grabs his shield and sickle and runs to the sound of the scream.
"Everyone stay together and take care. The killer is still around here somewhere..."
Zeke quietly watches Jak move up to the window looking in, his hand grasping his staff tightly. He spares a glance up and down the street, looking for any signs of movement, seeing Marcus and Aeryk look ready to head around the back.
Their embryonic plans are put on hold as a set of high, shrill, screams sound from somewhere to their left - the West side of town.
Marcus and Aerik creep around the back of the house. Dew from the grass wets their boots. Their recollections are confirmed as they spy a door off the kitchen. They sidle up to the modest door and look in...
Unwashed breakfast dishes sit in the sink and on the counter. Jannys lays across the floor - still in her best clothing. Clearly, she hadn't changed after the funeral.
Jannys' body is stretched out and face-down. Her head, however, is turned all the way around and regards the ceiling with a look of embarrassed surprise. Her torqued and snapped neck is several shades of deep purple.
Jak takes a moment to pull his whip from its loop, keeping it coiled so it doens't drag on the ground as he quietly makes his way to and through the front door as quietly as he can. The sound of his own thundering pulse makes it hard to hear inside the house.
Jak moves initially to the body, waving Zeke forward and miming that Zeke should check the body while Jak keeps a look out. When Zeke is next to Jak, Jak puts his lips right up to the bone-setter's ear, whispering as quietly as he can, "We need to check on the kids... anything useful in this mess?"
As he waits with Zeke, he mutters a few syllables, sweeping the room around him for arcane auras.
Jak and Zeke move into the living room without impediment.
Ezekiel quietly moves up to the body, giving only a cursory glance at the moment. "I'll need time to do a thorough check, so try not to move anything for now. Let's see if we can't meet with the others, then head up."