Ulfrik's face becomes choked with emotion and he kneels by the bedside and puts his hands gently but firmly on the man's left arm - well above any damage from frostbite.
"Gods, Uncle Yuln!! What in the name of the Creator happened to you?" He gazes into the eyes of the man on the bed, waiting for recognition.
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The older man blinks several times, trying to clear his vision. It takes several moments before recognition sets in. The moment that it does is obvious. His head turns away in shame, his right hand clenches harder, and his left grabs Ulfrik's arm despite the frostbite.
After a moment, he turns back to his nephew. "Ulfrik, I failed! You...," he coughs violently, finally continuing, "...you have to help her. She was kidnapped, the Lady Argentea. We...*cough*... thought they were just bandits. But as we turned them away into the storm....*cough*... the thrice damned witches..." He tries to spit, succeeding only in sending spittle running down his chin. "...sent winter-touched against us. They defeated us and dragged her away. You can avenge my shame!" His gaze lands on your sword, his eye widening.
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Sionna follows along with the group with a small bounce in her step until she hears the words "trouble comes in three's, you better not be the third." To anyone looking her way it is obvious this has caught her attention.
Sidhe...psst... Sidhe...This just suddenly went to the not so happy place of.. Sionna lingers a bit to speak more quietly to Sidhe. You know... Omen...
A look of deep concern crosses over the otherwise jovial girls face.
Ulfrik brings his sword closer to his uncle's grip, and helps him lay his hand upon it. Then he closes his hands over his uncle's, and swears: "By our might and blood, it shall be done!
"Tell me where the Lady was taken, and I shall hunt them down and slay them for you."
Sidhe...psst... Sidhe...This just suddenly went to the not so happy place of...You know... Omen...
Crossing through the square, Sidhe flinches when she hears the witch speak of bad things in threes. She turns to look at Sionna, to find her friend already whispering in her ear about OMENS.
She's just worried, Sionna, there's no sign of an OMEN yet, nor even talk of one, Sionna tries desperately to reassure her friend.
Please, Sidhe pleads quietly at she murmurs hopefully soothing words to Sionna, not a one of us has any desire to suddenly have to stand on our heads and untie a seeker's knot with our toes.
Sidhe transfers what is left of her breakfast to her left hand so she can put her right arm around Sionna. She shoots Khaleesi a meaningful look that says, hopefully, OMEN scare.
Shh, shh, it's alright Si, she tries to comfort her friend, Even if it's an OMEN, I think this one may be Ulfrik's, Sweetie, not ours.
Sidhe shudders at this, and glances at Ulfrik, striding purposefully ahead on his long legs. Though only newly acquainted, she had no desire to see any ill luck befall her new gambling buddy.
Tell me where the Lady was taken, and I shall hunt them down and slay them for you.
Sidhe steps forward and lays her hand gently on Ulfrik's arm.
I don't know what all this means, Ulfrik, she says softly, but I feel awful for your uncle. I hope it don't come down to him losing none of his fingers or his nose.
Sidhe swallows and glances a moment at her friends, knowing she hasn't discussed any of this with them.
I don't know if anything as little as me could be much help to all of you, Sidhe says to Ulfrik quietly, But if there's a fancy lady in trouble, and if your Uncle needs to be avenged, maybe I could be of some help. This ain't right, what's happening, and I'd imagine that whatever this "winter-touched" is, it's got to be powerful bad to winter-bite a big fellow like your uncle.
Not knowing what else to do, Sidhe stands in silent respect of Ulfrik and his family. Feeling like he might need some reassurance, she lays her cheek against Ulfrik next to her hand and hugs his huge arm in what she hopes is a comforting way.
Ulfrik's body is fairly shaking with restrained energy. He's like a mountain lion filled with purposeful tension barely held in check.
Sidhe's touch reminds him of his sisters at home, and he is both grateful for it, and embarrassed at this demonstration of warmth from a relative stranger.
Sidhe looks up at the old wise woman curiously.
Did ya put the grease on his fingers and nose? Gershom always told me that if you put the grease on when it's cold that you can save frostbite, she suggests eagerly, I don't know if it's too late for that, but maybe if you put the grease on him it'll help?
All too aware that she is no kind of healer, Sidhe looks towards Old Mother Theodora with a pleading, hopeful glance.
It's probably too late for the grease, Sidhe reckons to herself sadly, but maybe it could do some good. I don't know a thing for healing up noses and fingers what have been winter-bit.
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Sidhe looks up at the old wise woman curiously.
Did ya put the grease on his fingers and nose? Gershom always told me that if you put the grease on when it's cold that you can save frostbite, she suggests eagerly, I don't know if it's too late for that, but maybe if you put the grease on him it'll help?
All too aware that she is no kind of healer, Sidhe looks towards Old Mother Theodora with a pleading, hopeful glance.
"Are you suggesting that I don't know my craft...," the elderly woman brusquely begins before noticing the look on Sidhe's face. Her own expression softens. Much softer, she says, "He will be well, child. In time, he will be well."
After Ulfrik's assurances, Yuln seems much more coherent and reasoned. Yuln grumbles, "Don't worry about me. They grow us big and strong in the North." Finally noticing the gesture between Sidhe and Ulfrik, he gives what is currently a rather grotesque smile. "Guessin' you already know that." He winks his one eye at Ulfrik. "No wonder you're still in the South."
Yuln coughs, less violently this time. "We were on the southern road from here, just as it bends east. They took the Lady Argentea into the forest. I could only follow so far before being overwhelmed." He hangs his head in shame. "She's the sweetest little thing."
Seeing the wink, Ulfrik feels a wash of relief and smiles. He grips the older man's hand and then stands, towering over the bed and the others in the room.
"Mother always said I took after you," Ulfrik says with a wry grin. "And I know you'll do well, Uncle, for you always told me: 'As long as you can laugh, even at Death, you'll do just fine. A dead man has no sense of humor!'"
With that, Ulfrik starts to laugh. He laughs until it becomes a full belly laugh, practically roaring, all tension melting away from him. Wiping his eyes, he reaches down and touches the older man's shoulder, and nods as their eyes meet.
"I'll go save this sweet little thing for you, Uncle," he says, though his tone is only half-playful.
Turning to look at those who followed him from the tavern, Ulfrik is surprised by the sea of faces. In his rush to aid a fellow countryman, he completely lost awareness of anyone or anything else - save, perhaps, the small, oddly-eyed woman at his side.
Gods, Uncle Yuln!! What in the name of the Creator happened to you?... By our might and blood, it shall be done! Tell me where the Lady was taken, and I shall hunt them down and slay them for you."
Dekkembe moves to the other side of wounded Yuln looking touched by Ulfrik's reaction. He takes in the man's wounds and looks compassionately towards him. "May the blessings of the Heavens and the Power of your ancestors restore you to health! May the goodwill in my heart for you help to soothe your wounds." Dekkembe touches his own chest and focuses inwardly as he speaks the last line. A glow arrises in his chest and transfers to his hand which then gently touches Yuln. The healing energy flows into Yuln bestowing some healing. (cure light wounds)
Dekkembe then looks to Ulfrik and says I will help you find the kidnapped woman.
"Guessin' you already know that." He winks his one eye at Ulfrik. "No wonder you're still in the South
Sidhe looks back and forth between Ulfrik and Yuln for a moment, before the realization dawns on her. She opens her mouth to speak, but closes it again when it appears that Yuln has more to say. She then tries to vanish in plain sight as a creeping blush rises from her toes up to her hairline, turning her a bright shade of scarlet that rivals her hair.
It's not...I mean, I haven't done THAT. People keep thinkin' that...
Sidhe looks up at Ulfrik, studying his handsomely rugged features as he shares a tender moment with his uncle, a bit of gloss to his ice-colored eyes.
I mean, HE wouldn't...he's obviously a proper sort of fellow in his people, and I'm a-a...
Sidhe looks down at her slightly road dusty, poncho clad self and sighs.
Noticing Ulfrik turn to address the room, she tries to forget her current rumination and waits for...well, whatever is going to happen next. A fancy lady is in danger, and frost witches are attacking innocent huge people. She stares up at Ulfrik expectantly with wide eyes.
Dekkembe then looks to Ulfrik and says I will help you find the kidnapped woman.
"I thank you for your offer of aid," he says to Dekkembe. He touches Sidhe in thanks for the comfort she showed him. To the rest, he says: "I know we've only just met, and this obligation lies on my shoulders not yours, but the Weavers of Fate often conspire to bring heroes together in such unlikely ways, and I welcome any who are brave enough to seek this kidnapped woman together."
Ulfrik turns his gaze to Old Mother Theodora as something she said nudges his awareness: "You said trouble comes in three's... What have been the other two?"
Sidhe worries about Old Mother Theodora's response affecting the very superstitious Sionna. Concerned about her friend hearing something that speaks OMEN, Sidhe scampers over to Sionna and uses her hands to cover both of Sionna's ACTUAL ears (she's made that fox ear mistake before...only once).Aware that some of their companions are looking at her oddly, Sidhe looks over to Khaleesi with a small nod that says "It's okay, I've got this handled."
Sidhe worries about Old Mother Theodora's response affecting the very superstitious Sionna. Concerned about her friend hearing something that speaks OMEN, Sidhe scampers over to Sionna and uses her hands to cover both of Sionna's ACTUAL ears (she's made that fox ear mistake before...only once).Aware that some of their companions are looking at her oddly, Sidhe looks over to Khaleesi with a small nod that says "It's okay, I've got this handled."
Khaleesi smiles at Sidhe's protectiveness and then approaches Ulfrik and gently touches his hand. “I know you feel this is your burden, but you are our friend now, so it does not just fall on you. I know I can be of great help, with my resistance to severe cold and the magic that I can wield.” Khaleesi turns away from Ulfrik and approaches Yuln.
"Hello Yuln, I am Khaleesi, I come as friend. I am deeply sorry for what has happened to you; I wanted to ask you some questions if you feel up to it. I can’t help but to notice that you are frostbitten. For you to have come this far with your life is a miracle unto itself. I want to hear your story, how this came to pass, were you accompanied by others that were not so fortunate, what monsters await. I know it’s a lot to ask, but this will not only help us to save the noblewoman, but prepare us for what’s to come." Khaleesi smiles down at the man as she gently brushes her hand on his forehead with compassion. “Be well my friend, all will be alright."
Sidhe smiles in relief as Khaleesi addresses Yuln.
She's always the diplomatic one, who knows what to say. I'm glad she's on board with this.
Still holding Sionna's head between her palms, Sidhe nods her agreement.
I know we haven't known each other a whole day or anything, Sidhe adds, but what is happening here affects everyone, I think. I mean, this unseasonable cold snap going on, people making off with women in the middle of the world, that sort of thing doesn't happen in MY mountains without someone taking a face full of lead. And I'm no hero, so I don't think I fit that bill, but if I could be of help to some REAL heroes, well, that would suit me alright.
She smiles, holding fast to Sionna's head as her friend tries to escape the protective grasp.
Besides, I'm not quite sure I'm ready to not know you anymore yet, she smiles at Ulfrik, still struggling to keep Sionna's ears covered.
Sionna tries to turn her head from side to side as if trying to shake off Sidhe's grasp but to no avail. The look that crosses her face is one of concern at first and then simple child like frustration as she tries to nonchalantly shake off her friends hands.
You do know that holding my ears only makes you feel better, Sidhe... Talks of things coming in three's.. that's bad OMEN if I ever did see hear of one! The question is more of whose OMEN is it?
Sionna tries to keep her tone calm and collected, yet a hint of panic seems to line her words. Her eyes seem to travel, as her hearing is in fact compromised she looks to lips and faces to discern the level of concern she should be expressing.
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Ulfrik turns his gaze to Old Mother Theodora as something she said nudges his awareness: "You said trouble comes in three's... What have been the other two?"
Sidhe scampers over to Sionna and uses her hands to cover both of Sionna's ACTUAL ears (she's made that fox ear mistake before...only once). Aware that some of their companions are looking at her oddly, Sidhe looks over to Khaleesi with a small nod that says "It's okay, I've got this handled."
The spry elderly woman stands with her hands on her hips, eyeing the big Ulfen up and down. "I'm still not convinced that you lot aren't the third." She sniffs derisively, and pulls at her braid of grey hair. "The first is that there has been strange rumors about the forest. Unusual weather, strange creatures, and such. Nonsense, I'd normally say! But then he showed up." She gestures towards Yuln, just as Khaleesi approaches him.
" I want to hear your story, how this came to pass, were you accompanied by others that were not so fortunate, what monsters await. I know it’s a lot to ask, but this will not only help us to save the noblewoman, but prepare us for what’s to come." Khaleesi smiles down at the man as she gently brushes her hand on his forehead with compassion.
Yuln smiles in gratitude at the kind words and gestures as well as Dekkembe's efforts to heal him. "I'll tell you what I can...*cough*. We were escorting Lady Argentea from Zimar where she met her betrothed. She caused a scandal by calling off the engagement and deciding to return home. Not far from here...*cough*... we were waylaid. We thought they were just bandits at first—outlaws who hide like wolves in the forest. They were no match for us. But then came the winter-touched. They appeared among us and the battle turned quickly. I never expected to meet them this far south.” Yuln throws his left arm across his mouth as he has a violent coughing fit.
After a few moments, he continues, "They took her into the forest, back through the ice and snow. I followed as far as I could, but the winter-touched were too many and too hard to fend off in the snow by myself. I barely escaped, and rode to seek help here. I don’t know why they would take her, but if one of the White Bit..." He catches himself, looking to Old Mother Theodora sheepishly. "...White Witches is behind it, no good shall come of it. The winter-touched follow the orders of the those who placed the ice in their hearts. If they’re here, it’s because a White... Witch... sent them. And much worse will follow.” Yuln sinks back, exhausted, his eyes closed.
Old Mother Theodora brushes past Dekkembe to feel Yuln's forehead, patting him several times with a damp cloth afterward. She looks to all of you, saying, "He needs his rest. There is nothing more to be gained here." She starts shooing you away.
You turn to leave, but suddenly Yuln grabs Ulfrik's right wrist in his frostbitten left hand with a grip that would crush most people. His head turns slowly, his eye widens, glazed over. He takes Ulfrik's right hand in his own. " Miekka. Älä menetä miekka. Se toimii hyvin." His head falls back again and he begins loudly snoring.
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Sionna brushes Sidhe's hands away as we are being shooed from the room and looks intently at the people around her. She jumps when Yuln grasps Ulrik and her eyes widen with alarm. She looks at Sidhe and then at Ulfrik and then again to Sidhe.
In a hushed tone OMEN........
Her hand grasps firmly at the locket she wears around her neck, the color in her cheeks falling away toward her toes.
In a hushed tone OMEN........
Sidhe limply releases Sionna as she turns to stare at Yuln and his strange declaration.
What'd he say? Anybody know what that meant?
She is mostly asking Khaleesi, who she generally assumes knows all the things that smart people ought to know.
Sidhe turns back to Sionna.
Okay, I believe you, 'cause that looked a lot like an OMEN. So what do we do, like chew on a rabbit's ear while dancing a kobold war shuffle or somethin'?
Sidhe keeps Ulfrik in her peripheral vision. She's worried that this might be his OMEN, and Sionna's already told her how fast OMEN magic can work.
Please don't let nothin' bad happen to him, she prays out to the winds of fate, He's too nice of a fellow to be taken down by silly OMEN junk.
In a hushed tone OMEN........Sidhe limply releases Sionna as she turns to stare at Yuln and his strange declaration.
What'd he say? Anybody know what that meant?
She is mostly asking Khaleesi, who she generally assumes knows all the things that smart people ought to know.
Khaleesi gladly translates what Yuln says. Your sword. Do not lose your sword. It will serve you well.
Khaleesi has never been superstitious, but is a bit alarmed as well. Whatever you want to call it, one thing is clear, great evil will be among us. Khaleesi tries not to seem alarmed. Khaleesi says to both Sidhe and Sionna, There is no shame in being afraid, fear is the very thing that will save us. Courage, I believe every single person in this room has it. We will fight as one.
There is no shame in being afraid, fear is the very thing that will save us. Courage, I believe every single person in this room has it. We will fight as one.
Sidhe nods at Khaleesi. Even when she doesn't understand exactly what her friend means by it all, she is always soothed some by Khaleesi's calm demeanor.
Fighting frost witches, that'll cure an OMEN for sure, right? she questions Sionna.
She looks back at Ulfrik, and at the huge sword she'd noticed almost as soon as she'd noticed him.
Only BIG trouble would require that much sword. That is a big fellow in a big heap of trouble. And what did Gershom always say? "When you're in a BIG heap of trouble, it's the LITTLE things that will save you, so keep a lookout for them."
Well, I'm a little thing, so take that, big trouble! Sidhe says defiantly to no one in particular.
Ulfrik's face is clouded as he exits the old mother's house, ducking under the lintel. He holds his sword in his left hand, and his right is clenched tightly in a fist.
For those who are new to him, it's as if a storm cloud has rolled in, blotting out the affable and open Ulfen youth from the evening before. Ulfrik's strides are long and purposeful, his jaw clenched, and people just seem to move out of his way like water before a mighty ship, leaving questioning gazes in his wake.
Winter-touched? Here?
And my sword... Ulfrik ponders his father's gift. Did HE know, somehow? Or Mother? She does have the Sight, though only rarely. Did she suggest the cold iron? Too many questions. And Ulfrik prefers to do his thinking through action - movement, battle, these things helped to clarify his mind.
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After Yuln's peculiar outburst, Old Mother Theodora is even more insistent on getting all of you outside. She is muttering under her breath as she does so, "...threes...knew it...mark my words..." She exits with you, but does not say anything, waiting to see what all of you do. She raises an eyebrow questioningly as a figurative storm cloud rolls in over Ulfri's face and he strides purposefully away.
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Sidhe watches in surprise as Ulfrik takes on the aspects of a thunderhead and walks out the door. She is reminded of Gershom's 'game face' and pauses to let the others exit ahead of her.
Well, what did you think? she chides herself dejectedly, It's not like you are REALLY friends. You just kept a game of cards for the night. And what did Gershom always tell you? "The greatest fault of a woman is that she cares too much and not about her own hide." If he were here right now he'd tell me I was a right sotted fool to agree to go and do a bunch of work for which I haven't agreed to be paid. I just thought....
Sidhe eyes Ulfrik's form walking outside.
If I had seen him just last night when we first got here, and not again until now, I wouldn't recognize him at all.
Sidhe grabs her battered hat and shakes it out, then catches Old Mother Theodora giving her the look that seems to say 'this is your last warning to get the heck out of my house.' Sidhe pulls her hat on, low over her eyes, and files in at the end of the line of people, chewing on worrisome thoughts that make a poor dessert to her breakfast.
Well, fool or not, I said I would. Ain't nothin' for it now.
Sidhe keeps the rear pace of the group and walks on.
Dekkembe nods to Old Mother Theodora in deference and takes leave. Outside he looks into the skies for a long moment, then to Ulfrik and says, Ulfrik, do you know any information that may help us in this task? Where do you wish to begin? I believe we need more information. Perhaps, Roknard and Bruna would know something useful or who best to speak with...
Ulfrik stops, his face puzzling with something. "The forest is where this began. That's where WE need to start. I have some small skill at survival in the wilds, but I am new to the South and do not know these woods so well. If you, or one of your party, has such skill to guide me, I would be forever in your debt."
Ulfrik sees the trail of new companions and sighs. "Forgive me, my new friends. I didn't mean to charge off on my own. It's just - how I am." He gazes at each of you, ending with the tiny Sidhe. His eyes shift from troubled to cheerful, and he smiles weakly. "Any and all aid is most welcome and heartily appreciated."
Sidhe tilts up her hat enough to take a look out towards the woods.
I'm no professional tracker, she says, but I grew up on the back roads and in the backwoods of these lands my whole life. So, I can probably help get you where you're goin', but probably not as direct or quick as a proper woods trawler might.
Sidhe will crouch down, pick up some loose dirt and release it slowly to test the direction of the wind.
It's getting colder, though, and if we mean to travel out there, we'll want to head out as soon as possible. Whatever storm is brewing in those clouds, we don't want to wind up wearing it as a hat.
Sidhe looks around, unable to see everyone here through the cluster of taller heads.
Where's that pretty fellow we were playing Tree and Canary with last night? Ain't he supposed to be some sort of woods trawler?
@ Ulfrik Kai is an excellent woodsman! I am not sure if he and Pacianna intend to join us on this quest. We would be well served to have their skills at hand! I have a map of the area and some knowledge of the woods. Im sure between all of us we can find the way. It maybe wise to gather a bit more information before we set out. With that said, I defer to you.
Ulfrik nod's in response to Dekke's words.
"And you others? Are you ready and willing to venture into the woods, and danger? Sionna? Khaleesi?" He pauses when his eyes meet Sidhe. He knows you have already said you would go. There is a lot going on within him - clearly he is feeling some over-responsibility. Asking strangers to follow one into danger isn't an easy thing.
I have no right to ask them to risk their lives. If they offer, however, then I can gratefully accept them as sword-brother and sisters.
“I know you feel this is your burden, but you are our friend now, so it does not just fall on you. I know I can be of great help, with my resistance to severe cold and the magic that I can wield.”
Khaleesi looks at Ulfrik reminding him of her words spoken to him in the hedge witch's hut. Ulfrik, I am ready to venture off with you and the others. I am very aware of the dangers that lie ahead. I know there is the possibility of death. I hope that Ulfrik can see how ready I am.
Ulfrik nods again to himself, satisfied and heartened by the commitment to aid a stranger.
His right hand relaxes and he stares down into it. As it opens, you can see that he has been clutching a small metal disc about 3" in diameter, and maybe a quarter inch thick. He holds his greatsword firmly in his left hand and presses the disc into a slight depression in the pommel.
"I pray you meant well giving me this, Uncle," he says sotto voce.
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Ulfrik's pace as you talk leads you about twenty yards outside of town before he stops to engage in the conversation. You discuss what it is that you are going to do, coming to a consensus to pursue the ambushers through the woods. After the decision is made, Ulfrik reveals a small disk in his hand. He draws his sword in his left hand, holding up the disk briefly. He holds it against the crossguard, manipulating it for just a moment, and all of you hear a click.
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All of you find yourselves looking to each other, but see everyone else in the same position that they had before your experience, as if no time has passed.
"That was - unexpected."
Dekkembe opens his eyes looking somewhat shaken yet purposeful. He briefly observes each of you and then glances at Ulfrik's sword. A sign from above! We should make haste. Dekkembe points towards a specific area of the southern forest and says, There is no doubt in my mind that we are meant to be on this quest together. My spirit is called urgently to the forest, to the Sylvan lands. Come friends, let us talk and walk towards what is ours to do.
Sidhe looks quietly after the vision. Could it have been Gershom? Hardly. He's been gone these years, and I buried him myself...
Sidhe shakes her head, and stares up at her companions, still looking with awed faces, including Sionna and Khaleesi. Looking towards the girls she figures that they can talk later about what they saw.
Supplies, Sidhe finally manages to decide to say, We need to make sure we got enough of what we need to get us through this forest alive. I reckon no one here has a horse or a donkey for carrying things?
Sidhe scans her companions but does not expect an answer. She searches through her own bag to see what she has, and scoops out her pet rat to sit on her shoulder so she can search around him.
Yeah, I'm thinking we could pick up some extra food, and maybe some blankets or cloaks to help ward of the chill... Sidhe is hardly understandable as she reads off her potential shopping list to the bottom of her bag. Possibly remember to get some grease to put on in case of the chill, and maybe a tindertwig or two if anyone should keep such things in their shop.
Sidhe stops and looks up at her companions curiously.
I dunno, what do you all think? Albus is definitely in favor of more food.
She takes the ends of her breakfast toast and feed them to the plump white rat, who is hiding now under her hair.
Albus nibbles the toast quietly, fluffing himself against the chilly air and peering out towards Sionna. Though too far away to leap onto Sionna's shoulder and try to steal her earrings at the moment, he bides his time and waits for a reasonable opportunity to leap and make her shriek.
Soon, he thinks.
Excuse me all for a moment, Sidhe says to no one in particular, heading towards the hedge witch's cozy abode.
What WAS that? I have to know.
She creeps away quietly back towards the hut, indicating to Khaleesi and Sionna that she'll be right back.
Fighting frost witches, that'll cure an OMEN for sure, right? she questions Sionna.
Sionna nods in response to this, It's a start.. She quickly follows everyone out of the hut and remains observant of everyone for a while.
"And you others? Are you ready and willing to venture into the woods, and danger? Sionna? Khaleesi?"
She nods again at Ulfrik. I will travel with you.. I fear it would be a horrid OMEN to try to avoid what has happened here. I make no bad will with the fates of this journey.
Sionna looks out at the road ahead after the click, her eyes focus on the pathway. Something... This pathway must lead to something..
Quickly then. Let us get the needed supplies Sidhe and head off. I don't believe the missing woman can afford more time.
If the group buys supplies, I will purchase 3 extra days rations.
Ulfrik watches Sidhe creep off toward Old Mother Theodora's home, a puzzled expression on his face. He looks to Khaleesi and Sionna with an expression that reads: Does she often do this? He shakes his head wryly and turns toward the woods.
"I agree, Dekkembe. I feel there is urgency in our quest, and no time to delay." He looks over his shoulder at the two women and says:"Call your friend from her - whatever it is she's doing. We must away before any sign or trail grows cold."
With that, he gazes once more at his greatsword as if it is a stranger to him, and then begins to walk toward the woods.
Khaleesi is lost in thought for a moment and does not notice Sidhe stepping towards the town. I am overwhelmed with emotions and I need some privacy. Khaleesi walks away from the group to have a private moment.
With her back turned, it isn't possible to see what Khaleesi is doing, though at one point, she seems to reach up and touch her face. After another minute, she turns and walks over to stand by Sionna. She looks composed and thoughtful. I apologize for walking away and not excusing myself. It was rude but necessary. I will make a conscious effort to inform someone in the group if I need a private moment. Dekkembe, Ulfrik, I could not agree more; time is of the essence. The fate of this woman falls to us. I am ready.
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The early morning sun crests the hills to the east and illuminates the road fully. A couple of you take a moment after the semi-shared experience. Once regrouped, the consensus is to make haste towards the ambush site and try to catch up to the kidnappers.
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You travel down the road, and despite the sun rising higher in the sky, the temperature drops. In less than two hours, you come upon this sight: Map.
You are near the forest, and the road ahead is littered with debris and the corpses of slain humans and horses. An upright carriage stands in the roadway, its team of horses missing or cut free, while another overturned carriage lies sprawled and broken next to the tree line. To the south, more bodies have fallen around a statue of ice; .
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By the Heavens, this was a massacre! May the souls of these men and animals be at peace. Dekkembe is slightly teary-eyed. I've seen death before but never a slaughter like this. What evil would take life so wantonly?! We must stop these witches. We must get justice for those killed and find the girl before its too late. Stay close to one another as we explore. Siona, would you help me examine this area? Dekkembe points to G6, begins to slowly walk that way and looks to see if Siona is joining him.
Dekkembe casts detect magic and guidance on himself as he surveys the area. He walks to examine the corpses of the men and animals (roughly G6 area). How were they killed? Are their discernible tracks? What were the contents of the carriages?
(I added +1 from guidance)
(I added +1 from guidance)
Sword in hand, Ulfrik scans the scene and walks cautiously forward (to F5). His expression is dark and serious, and he examines the site like a panther hunting prey: ready to spring at a moment's notice. He frowns slightly at the sight of Dekkembe casting his magic.
(the body @ F6)
(the general area, looking for tracks, etc.)
"I suggest we keep a little distance between us," Ulfrik's voice rumbles, low. "Witches can cast spells that can catch an area, and we don't want to be bunched all nicely together in a herd for them."
Ulfrik gestures with a jut of his chin toward the statue and the small blobs around it. "Be wary of that," he warns, gripping his sword more firmly should ambush arise.
Sidhe draws her gun and readies herself to take a shot should anything happen. As Ulf and Dekkembe head to check the south part of the ambush site, Sidhe heeds Ulfrik's words and decides instead to check the standing carriage for signs of life, or maybe clues a kidnapped fancy lady might have tried to leave behind. She heads slowly up the road's edge towards the still upright carriage .
What in the world slaughtered these poor buggers like this? I mean, frost b+*@%es, sure, but what did they do?
Sidhe glances towards the body by the road and wonders what killed the poor man.
Her ears and eyes are strained to perceive any possible movement from the bloody scene, as she has known ambushers to lay in the road like bodies until their prey walks over them. She approaches the carriage slowly, looking to see if anything is left inside.
Sionna follows down the road after her friends and glares intently at the sight of the slain travelers. She looks around with weary eyes at the dark shadows and corners of the area. Her hand moves to her hip, resting gently atop her weapon. She moves toward the fallen person to the side of the road opposite the main crash to investigate the slain man.
Dekkembe, I'll be over that way in a few moments.. just.. checking it all out.