*** Caravan ***
Right well, I'll get my affairs here wrapped up and then you lot can call on me when you think the way to this ancient holy place of Torag is clear enough. Gorat says Where can I get a decent room here? he wants to know.
The rest of you know that most of the inns and pubs in town are pretty much under the thumb of the Labour Consortium. They're mostly all on the muddy shore of the river close to the ferry. Not only that but they're also pretty lawless and visitors to town routinely get robbed with the Sheriff unable to help them as he gets no assistance from the staff or owners of the establishments
A little further into town on one of the main intersections though is Jak'A'Napes. A pretty ramshackle inn that's run by Jak Crimmy, a retired tourbadour from Riddleport. For whatever reason Kreed and his goons have no sway over Jak and Jak seems to have no fear of them. It's a favorite place for the Sheriff's guards and also with the townsfolk at large for Jak's locally famous cinnamon encrusted flapjacks. That really should be where Gorat should get a room.
***
Sheriff's office.
Albus sees the Sheriff cleaning his axe on the porch right outside the Sheriff's office. It was him hitting Kreed's goon Payden Teedum on the side of the head with the flat of it for demanding double tax that had vaulted Baelson to the elected title of Sheriff.
Sheriff looks up and smiles widely as Albus approaches. Ah, hero twice over. Albus! Glad to see you. Heck you saved Kreed's own son from fell magicks and kobold sorcerers deep in the belly of the earth is what the townsfolk are saying. That really sticks in that bastard's gut! The Sheriff laughs not really caring who hears him badmouth the person in charge of the lumber operations in the Vale, and therefore, the town of Falcon's Hollow. So, given any thought of becoming a deputy of mine on a more pemanent basis? You'd make a heckuva Sheriff one day soon.
***
Laurel's shop.
The door to Roots and Remedies swings open and the little bell on top of it rings to announce Aeleire coming in.
Laurel is humming to herself as she grinds some herb or the other in a pestle at her workbench. She looks up and waves her over with a grin.
Aelerie! How are you keepin? And how's your ma and da doing? Heard you went out with Ablus and a few others and saved a bunch of kiddies from kobolds. That really true?
Laro nods to Gorat, "Right. First off stay outta the inns and pubs on the river. They all belong to the Lumber Consortium and arn't safe. Where you want to go is Jak'A'Napes. Not the prettiest place but it's safe. It's where the local and town guards hang out. I'll take you there and then join Aelerie. You wanna come with Javell?"
Gorat is grateful for Laro's help and follows the halfling (and presumably the large human) into town after finishing packing up his stall and entrusting the contents of it to another of the vendors to take back when the caravan leaves town.
Well if i was looking for pretty then I wouldn't have come to a small town in the middle of nowhere... no offense Gorat says as he follows Laro as he is led through the dirt streets of Falcon's Hallow towards Jak'A'Napes. The large, somewhat dilapidated building is one of the larger intersections in town and there's a steady stream of folks coming in and out. Inside the smell of freshly made flapjacks suffuses the air, overpowering even the smell of ale and beer. Gorat nods This will do just fine. We were told by the people who helped us set up that the places on the riverfront were the good ones but this smells way better. The Lumber Consortium not well liked huh?
Javell spends a bit of time on his own, wandering for what felt like the first time in forever, simply following his feet as he walks through the forest. His new shield gleams on his back and new starknife hangs next to his old one.
It's nice to finally have some time alone he thinks, It feels like it's been so long since I've had the chance.
However, as the scout ventures into the woods, he stays vigilant, keen for potential signs of trouble or other disturbances in the forest.
Albus walks part way with Laro and Gorat, replying to Gorat, "Some ... see benefit in being seen as supportive of the Lumber Consortium but many resent its overbearing greed. It squeezes all it can out of its workers and all those that have to due business with it, any who object disappear. Some fewer that stood up to them more publicly ... well the woods are infested with bandits according to the 'justice' here. Dad was murdered by ... 'bandits'. Albus says the last quite grimly.
Albus walks up to the sheriff loaded with his minor armory. "Greetings Sheriff. Yes I have, I'll give notice to the Legion as soon as I'm able, then join as guard or woodward as you choose. Though, Lady Cirthana is interested in having the lost orphanage investigated and cleaned and wants my help. Also Gorat the Merchant is interested in making pilgrimage to the Dwarf monastery now that it has been cleans of much of the evil that infested it." Albus stops, then says, "I should make a full report but a bit more privacy would be in order."
After the Sheriff's response Albus continues with a full military trained scouts detailed report of all the events of the trip and the recovery of the children. Highlights include the threat of the stirges, the tragdy of the orphanage and Jeva, emphasizing how dangerous she is, the fate of the dwarf hero, the terrible creatures faced, the undead and evil dwarf and the corruption it implies, the fall of the kobold tribe and the possibility of trouble resulting from it. In all of that he credits the gods for all their help, noting the Torag seemed to take a special interest in the events.
Albus tearful as he explains, "Jeva is a terrible threat now, but I don't want to kill a child, even if she is monster. But the town must be protected, I bought a silver longsword for you and a number of silver shortswords for the town guard. Do be careful, I barely survived her attack, and could not stop her fleeing, she is swift and tough beyond mortal limits."
Albus wryly says, "We sold some items that we brought back and bought others. Still some items are left over. I worry about taxes on all this. I'm not sure how the system works; can taxes be paid to you? These items should cover it if so. The hammer of admantine that the evil dwarf used is now blessed, likely by Torag, someday it should go back to dwarven hands. I'd like to leave any items we don't use here in any case, though with this new magic bag, I may not need to do so any more. Still getting use to all this mystic stuff."
"Hi Laurel!" Aelerie returns the herbalist's cheery greeting as she closes the door and moves toward the back of the shop. "Mama's doing well. She's healthy again, thanks to you! She just misses Papa, as I do. We haven't seen him since the day after you cured the town, and we won't be for at least another week." Aelerie's smile turns shy as Laurel brings up the latest gossip in town. She gives a modest little shrug, not denying the rumors, but not very keen on bragging about their recent exploits either. Eventually she admits, "It's been a long couple of days."
And the 'excitement' isn't over yet. Blowing out a weary sigh, Aelerie tells Laurel the reason for her visit. "I was wondering if you might have some supply of wolfsbane I could purchase from you."
*** The Forest ***
Javell retreats from civilization with his new weapons and heads back into the wilds. He'll be gone for a few hours from town but he feels far more comfortable in nature and needs the time away to ease the tension that comes from being so close to so many people.
The party's concern over the stirges leads him to keep an eye out for the husks the overgrown insects leave behind when they moult. As he expects he sees more of them the closer to the river he is. If they are searching for the source of the infestation, it will be somewhere along the muddy swamp like banks of the River Foam.
In the woods, and Javell doesn't go very far in as he will have to go back to town soon to meet up with the rest of the group if he wishes to do so, the wildman devotee of the Star Goddess makes another discovery.
He finds a dead tree smeared with colours that are just not found in nature. The source of the colours is obvious. Three sprites are pinned to the branch of the tree with nails made of cold iron, their bodies turned to gnarls of wood with faces twisted in pain at the moment of their death. It's their blood that has seeped into the bark.
Javell knows the Lumber Consortium and the remaining fey of the Vale do not like each other one bit. Still, the discovery is more morbid that what the warpriest usually finds.
***Jak'A'Napes***
Har! So much for all that Andoran talk about equality and democracy and such. Gorat snorts in response to Albus' explanation of the Lumber Consortium. All goes out the window when they want darkwood to be harvested and sold Eh?
***Sheriff***
Baelson listens attentively to Albus' report.
Kobolds in the old halls of dwarven gods eh? Sounds like stories. But I got no reason to doubt, 'specially since I've heard the same from the kids you brought back. Well the ones that are willing to talk anyway. Which was only two of 'em. As for the Kobolds The Sheriff shrugs at the report of the group responsible for the disappearance of the five children. We'll keep an eye out. Sounds like you cut the snake off at the head though so I they'll scurry back deep underground fer a good long while.
At the story of Jeva the Sheriff sighs and shakes his head sadly Her family were good folk, but, hell, weres are bad news, and folks from town go missing every now and then. A werewolf on the loose could explain it.
His eyebrows shoot up at the princely gift Albus brings for him Blow me down with a feather this is way more fancy than the arrows I gave ya. Hah. You win the competition Albus, I ain't going to be able to top this stuff. You found a lot of loot going after those kids seems like.
His expression of wonder mixed with amusement grows serious You can be damn sure Kreed and his thugs already know you've been throwing coin around. Hell they probably know that you're giving it to the Guard to boot. Listen Albus, Kreed doesn't mess with us much because he knows we don't have enough influence to threaten him and we're too much of a bother to root out anyhow. Baelson takes the sword and examines its masterwork blade glittering like moonlight But you're changing that balance. Just like your da did and Kreed won't like that one bit. I'm damn glad that you've got your adventurin' friends that you go around with to watch out for you. Watch your back son, yeah? Be safe.
*** Laurel ***
Wolfsbane? Laurel asks surprised You feeling hurt or something? That stuff's poison if you don't process it right. I can make you a tonic for a headache or backstrain instead of you messin' around with the raw material. Free of charge.
Aelerie softly shakes her head at Laurel's inquiry, a little sadly. "I wish it were something that simple..." she answers cryptically before checking the shop to make sure they are alone. Once assured of their privacy, Aelerie comes out with it, saying, "We're trying to cure a werewolf." After a pause to allow the herbalist to take in that information, Aelerie continues. "It might be something you can help us with actually. I haven't read much about the affliction, nor of wolfsbane's efficacy in treating it. Do you know how much we would have to administer to try to cure someone of lycanthropy? Or of the... chances of success?"
A werewolf huh? Laurel says shaking her head. There's always something isn't there. The herbalist looks concerned but not overly so. Monsters were a fact of life after all and the people of the Hollow had just gotten used to the dangers of living in a town on the harsh frontier. It was not unusual to hear about someone or the other disappearing despite the best efforts of the Lumber Consortium and Baelson's guards.
Well like I said, wolfsbane's a poison. They say it can cure a werecreature, but it can poison 'em as well. As for chance of success? This be all hearsay of course but they say that the hardier a person be the more likely they'll be able to be cured. And the only way to know will be at the next full moon. Laurel sighs Curing the thing is my cousin's idea isn't it? That man's muttonbrained when he gets a cause.
Albus nods at the Sheriff's assessment. "I agree that's the likely result but there are other groups of kobolds out there, they may wonder if they're next on the chopping block. Also the balance of power may change in unpredictable ways out there, something may see an opening and exploit. Still I'll take it one day at a time and just keep an eye out."
Albus grimaces, "A great deal actually in value though little in volume, a few precious items, even though we didn't trade all, it was around 12-15 thousand gold value traded together; 3 traders had to pool in order to do it. I don't know how you get the funds to run the sheriff office, the quartermaster of the legion was always bellyaching at the cost of running a few hundred men or even a small squad. I hoped paying you might be legal at least. I know the law means nothing to the Gavel or his men except as a whip to beat people with. It's not the money, it's just the unwillingness of the LC to do anything just with any of it." Albus sighs, "I'm not sure how to respond to a demand for payment or what taxes are legitimately owed."
Albus gives a smart salute to the sheriff, "Anything you want from me now? Otherwise I'm off to see what the Lady of the Inheritor has in mind. Since the head of the Legion is a Iomedean I'm sure she can get in touch with him and I should know in a week or two if my resignation is accepted. Then I'll be glad to be your man. There is much to be done."
**Sheriff**
Nothing here's legitimate Albus The Sheriff shrugs Legitimately speaking the Constortium shouldn't be running anything other than the darkwood extraction'. But that's not how things are. If they come after you for taxes. They'll come after you for taxes. And they'll make up a number on the spot. You can pay, or you can fight back. Neither's good. I smacked Teedum about the head with the flat of my axe and look at where I am now! Anyhow nothing from me now. Look's like the church's got something for ya to do that'll help keep the town safe. I'll call for you if I need anything. Meanwhile just having you around and a part of my team will help more than you know. The more people folks see not under Kreed's thumb, the more it'll encourage people to stop being scared themselves.
***Roots and Remedies***
Aelerie nods solemnly, confirming Laurel's suspicions. "It sounds terrible, but I wouldn't be here asking for a cure if it were up to me," she admits, shamefully dropping her gaze to Laurel's cluttered workbench. "She may look like just a girl, but every time I think about her or hear her name, I only remember her as the monster that nearly killed me." She shakes her head and lets out a small sigh. "Albus, though... he sees a little girl that needs saving. I just worry that no matter what we do, this tale isn't going to have a happy ending. And I know how badly he wants it to."
Breathing in and then out, Aelerie finally looks Laurel in the eye again and tries to give the woman a smile. It isn't a very convincing smile and, realizing this, she opts to give a slight shrug instead. "But we have to try, right?" she asks rhetorically, not expecting the herbalist to say otherwise. "I'll buy however many doses of wolfsbane you think we'll be needing, but I'll also let Albus know that we shouldn't be getting our hopes up."
**Laurel**
Well I got bunches of it Laurel sighs The root's the important bit and the plant's common enough. Five gold will get you 10 bunches of it. At cost.
**Church**
The four friends gather together again at the church, which is now empty save for the few acolytes making sure the little space is clean and tidy. They're ushered in quickly to Lady Cirthiana's chamber.
The Lady turns around. Ah praise be to the Lady of the Sword. Thank you all for coming so soon. I am concerned about the sight of the former orphanage. As some of you may be aware, areas of great pain and sorrow have a tendency to become haunted by the tragic events that occurred there and even attract evil beings. There are a few such places around the Hollow and it would be surprising if the orphanage did not become another one. It should have occurred to me earlier that the church could act to prevent such evil from taking root. Truth be told it wasn't in our capability to do anything about such things. But, if you could escort me to the site then, perhaps, I would be able to carry out a ritual of consecration that might keep the ground from becoming unahllowed at the very least.
The Lady sighs and makes a small shrugging motion I regret that we would not be able to pay the four of you for this service. It is not a rich congregation that I serve.
*The Forest*
Javell grimaces at the gruesome scene, Desna... this is horrifying. How could anyone do this?
He tries to follow the tracks back to the consortium and identify the culprits, but still keeping his distance.
Javell isn't an expert on fey physiology, but he can tell that this happened a little while ago. There are some faded human tracks that he can detect. Following them for a little while seems to lead in the direction of one of the Lumber Consortium logger camps but that's about all he can tell.
*The Sheriff*
Albus says, "So they have no law to tax with then, they've done it so long that everyone thinks they do. Well, then if they try, I'll not be so willing. I'll watch my back and tell the others. And as always if you need anything I be there to help."
**The Church**
Albus first lays an offering of 300 G.P. to the church.(around a tenth I think).
"It's an honor to serve the Inheritor, M'lady, no payment needed for me. I would like you minor aid, in sending a message to the Legion, I believe you have regular contact with the faithful of the legion. I wish to submit my resignation so I can be free to join the Sheriff's men." Albus considers and continues, "When would you like to go, M'Lady?"
Aelerie's eyebrows nearly disappear into her hairline at The Lady's request. "You wish to accompany us to the ruins?" she asks as if she has somehow misheard the priestess. The thought of traveling with the Head of the local Iomedaean church is an odd one for the irreligious arcanist, to be sure. Aelerie imagines the journey being long and mostly quiet for her, broken up by only the occasional awkward conversation on her part. Nevertheless, if the Lady was the only capable of carrying out the purification ritual...
Aelerie recovers from her surprise, saying, "It would be an honor to escort you." Immediately, her mind turns to the logistics of the trek ahead. "I don't know if we'll make it there and back to the Hollow by nightfall, so you may want to bring something to sleep on. We'll have plenty of rations to spare, though." She briefly pats Albus's shoulder, smiling. "Albus here can tell you more about what preparations you might like to make, though."
When Lady Cirthana brings up the issue of payment, Aelerie demurs with a shake of her head. "Please. Being able to help make sure the town is safe from whatever creatures might be drawn to the tragic site is reward enough."
Lady Cirthiana smiles at Albus
Ah, you will be staying in town then? That is wonderful news. You will be missed at the Legion but, I daresay, Falcon's Hollow has more need of you. I will have the missive sent immediately, with my quite extensive report on all that has been happening here. Perhaps that will convince them to send more permanent aid to our little Church as well.
To Astrianna she says I thank you for your advice Astrianna. The four of you are far more accomplished than I on these sorts of matters. When can we venture forth?
Albus nods at Lady Cirthiana, "Yes, M'Lady, I'm needed here, the Legion has scouts enough to more than get by, the Sheriff needs every man now. We will too, the gentlemen who run this town will try to get profit of our venture out of us, illegally; when we don't cooperate, things will get tense. Can you have someone watch over Aelerie's mother while we are gone?" Albus lets that point hang grimly over the group before continuing.
Albus says, "I'm pretty much always ready, I need to pick up a few more arrows at Aelerie's store. I'm not sure about her duties at the shop or Master Laro's duties at his job. Master Javell, I can't speak for you but I daresay, you seem ready to wander at a moments notice. So I could depart in less than an hour, if you wish. So it's as much of how ready you are, M'Lady."
Albus elaborates, "Going to the lamented orphanage is not too difficult, though food for several days is always warranted for any long trip, carry water, tough clothing, armor if possible, good foot-gear with stockings, and be ready for a tiring long walk, it's starts as a subtle rise to the mountain, however level it seems, but even as close a walk to there will feel like climbing stairs after a few hours. Given the time we will need to cover the area in detail, an overnight stay, in the area, seems very likely as well, so bedrolls, or even a tent has its uses, but I don't bother with tents, a lean-to is quick and easy to build."
If you could provide for whatever supplies I might need that would be appreciated. Lady Cirthiana nods at Albus I will of course provide recompense. Let me know when we can set out under Iomedae's watchful eyes.
Laro laughs when Albus mentions his job. "I don't think I'm going to be very popular at work even if I did help save the boss' son. I think they can just consider my resignation tendered and everyone will be happier. In which case I am ready to go."
Albus says, I'll see to supply, other matters, like armor, to your discretion. Don't worry about cost it matters little it won't be much.
We can be ready in less than an hour, lets meet by the gate out of town on the way."[/b]
Albus says, "I'm off to Master Brickasnurd Hildrinsocks' Goose n' Gander for a few more basic supplies, wouldn't want him to feel left out. Any wish to join me?"
Aelerie, who had been quiet with worry since Albus had brought up the possibility of Lumber Consortium thugs coming after her mother, nods jerkily to the woodsman's invitation to visit the General Store. "Of course I'll come along. I'll have to let Master Hildrinsocks know that I'll need a few more days off yet." Aelerie shakes her head and, trying for a lightheartedness she doesn't feel, says, "Poor fellow brought me on so he would have more time to explore. Now he's forced to mind the store so that I can go adventuring."
*** Store ***
Aelerie and Albus make their way to the general store. Roow calls out companionably to Aelerie from the eaves as they enter and flutters down from the eaves to land on her shoulder. The bird nok noks at her, hoping for a treat.
Hildrensocks is humming away on his stool when the two of you come, jangling the bell on the door. He looks up Ah Aelerie! A little birdie told me that you came back from your walksie! Ah and you're back with your friend. Does that mean you're going on another? So soon?
*** Journey ***
Much like the last time you set out, only a few days ago, your activities around town has allowed the morning to turn into noon. The road towards the site of the former orphanage will take a little more than half a day which means that it will be evening when you arrive. The four of you, with Lady Cirthiana joining you this time, set out. The Lady's travelling clothes are simple and practical and she carries a simple rucksack with her. There is a longsword strapped to her waist as befits a cleric of Iomedae.
I must confess I have never been north of the Town. she says a few minutes into the walk glancing back at Falcon's Hollow It has always felt like if I left town, even for an hour, the church would collapse behind me. There's always so much to do just to hold things together.
Laro walks next to Lady Cirthiana and says to her "Well, I wouldn't put it past the Lumber Consortium to strike against your temple while you are out of town so that is an understandable feeling. I don't think they will do it this time unless we spend a lot of time out of town. If they do, we'll make em pay. I know where a lot of the bodies are buried and where the proof is."
*Store*
Albus nods at the proprietor saying, "Yes Master Hildrensocks, off to check on things right away, so I'll need a few more arrows and an extra couple of waterskins would be good."
Albus will buy a few items.
* Journey *
Albus is about to reply to the Lady when Master Laro speaks with surprising news. "I doubt, Master Laro, that an overt attack on the church would take place, the are not bold, usually but tend to strike from shadows or otherwise out of sight. Actually we should be on guard for this trip and any other, or we may encounter the same 'bandits' that my father did." Albus continues very quietly, "But your statement that you have knowledge and proof of wrongdoing is more interesting and dangerous. There is no law in this town but the Sheriff that they do not own, and his ability to bring them to justice is limited. But sufficient proof may be brought elsewhere to justify revoking their charter - hurting what they love most, their gold. It would not be easy though, the government is not all that strong yet, little more than a generation, and gold is most persuasive."
*** Store ***
"Hello Roow! Have you been keeping an eye on the store for me while I've been away?" she asks the bird on her shoulder faux sternly as she searches the pockets of her skirts for treats. She comes up empty this time, realizing she must have given the last to Whisper during their trek home. Luckily for the familiar, she keeps a stash of them behind the front counter; unfortunately for him, the treats are all but forgotten at Master Hildrinsocks' questions. Despite the gnome's perpetually upbeat tone, the assistant shopkeeper can't help but feel a little chastised.
"I wouldn't go if it wasn't terribly important, but there are still a number of threats still facing Falcon's Hollow that need to be dealt with. Lady Cirthana—" Aelerie is unsure whether Master Hildrinsocks puts much stock in the local religion or its head priestess, but doesn't imagine the small name-drop will hurt her case "—has asked us to take her to the ruins of the halfway house so that she might perform a purification ritual. Then we have a werewolf to track down and attempt to cure..."
Aelerie scuffs the toe of her boot on the floor as she waits to see how her employer and magical mentor feels about her taking more time off.
*** Journey ***
An untimely swig from her waterskin leaves Aelerie sputtering as she hears Laro's somewhat less than reassuring response to the Lady's concerns. After clearing a few droplets from her lungs, the arcanist recovers and, still red-faced, gives her own reply. "I wouldn't normally doubt your word about Kreed's behavior, Laro, but I have to agree with Albus on this one. It would be very unwise for him to move against the Church so blatantly. Even those townfolk who aren't particularly devout would be up in arms over such an attack," she says, not so subtly alluding to her family and herself. As the color in her face returns to normal, Aelerie leaves room for concessions by way of shrugging. "But I don't imagine anyone's ever accused Gavel Kreed of being especially wise."
**Store**
Ahhhh the gnome says nodding You are not to be a shopkeeper then Hildrenstocks hops of his stool and wanders around his counter to come up to Aelerie. He gives her a hug. Well her knee a hug. But the intent is clear.
Your former mentor looks up at you. I did not think you would be a small pebble skipping across a small lake while making nary making a ripple. No. You are a one to make waves. Go. Go. Do the right thing. Yes? Make Roow and I proud. Your friend can have his arrows and waterskins free of charge!
***Journey***
The Lady sighs as you leave the town behind ruminating on what was said. Wise or not, Kreed is... clever from what I can see she says choosing her words carefully He is in charge, he is making money from the trees, and he does not like anyone making waves to upset those two things. The sheriff, the Town council, my church. We are not enough of a threat to his control for him to bother with us. He could clamp down on any of us at any time but if he did it would create a backlash. she shakes her head. But nevertheless we must do what is right as the Acts of the Inheritor guide us and inspire us. The Lady ends with a prayer Praise be the Lady of the Sword, may she guide us as we venture into danger in her name.
**Near the orphanage**
The group sets a far steadier pace this time around as they head towards the orphanage. Unlike last time, where they were chasing after five wayward children, there is no pressure of time and no reason to rush.
The group, for a change, does not run into any bloodsucking flying monsters. It is past dusk though as they approach the hill on which the remains of Elara's Halfway House stands. As they make their way up the group feels an unseasonable chill. It should not be this cold even though the sun is now just a glowing line on the western horizon and night is settling in. The Lady, who has been doing a reasonably decent job of hiking considering she's unused to the wilds, grasps her holy symbol with a frown.
Blood and fire, slash and burn
All of you hear a voice say Whisper yelps and nuzzles close to Albus.
It seems to echo around you, coming from everywhere, but if you strain...
The Lady whirls around. That voice. It came from behind us! she says in a strained voice.
Javell, Aelerie, and Laro are convinced the voice came from up ahead, uphill, where the orphanage is.
Albus is convinced it came from the west.
*** Store ***
Aelerie looks stricken at Hildrinsocks' statement, initially thinking he means to fire her. It isn't until the gnome comes around to embrace her that she understands that he isn't dismissing her, but rather letting her go. With a watery smile, Aelerie crouches down to return the shopkeeper's hug. "Thank you, Master Hildrinsocks. For everything. I'll never forget all you've done for me. I'll do my best to make you proud." At Roow's indignant caw, Aelerie brushes the wetness from her eyes with a growing smile and amends, "Both of you."
Rising from her crouch, Aelerie clears her throat before turning to Albus and gesturing toward one of the aisles. She links arms with him companionably before moving off in that direction. "Here, let me help my last customer find what he needs."
*** Orphanage ***
Suppressing a shudder for the third or so time since the beginning of sunset, Aelerie draws her cloak tighter around herself in an attempt to stave off the chill. She shudders again only moments later, though this time it has nothing to do with the cold. She turns around at the priestess' claim but, seeing nothing, voices a differing opinion. "It sounded to me like it came from the ruin. Have we come too late to perform the ritual?"
*Store*
Albus says, "Thank you, Master, Aelerie I only want 15 arrow, an extra waterskin and bedroll. Naught more is needed I think." A thought strike him and he turns back to the proprietor, "Master Hildrinsocks, I've not heard from Master Virdel Harg, you seem well informed, have you heard anything?"
* Journey *
Albus pets to reassure Whisper, "It'll be okay boy." Albus is a little puzzled, "It sounded like it came from the west, whatever spoke but it seemed a bit weird. What are we dealing with?"
Albus says, "Master Javell, would you lead the group forward cautiously? I'll check to the west and back to see what's what." Albus intends to towards the west to see if he can see or find a trail of something then would check back along their trail if he finds nothing. He'll move swiftly not stealthily to do a fast recon and get back to the group fast. If something attacks, he'll attempt to retreat to the group.
Laro smiles and says "I made it my business to know where they keep the incriminating papers when I saw what type of company I was working for. No better than my owners in Chelix." His head spins around upon hearing the voice and says "It sounded like up ahead to me. I wonder if there is magic afoot."
Javell nods, "There's some kind of magic afoot here, I'm sure of it." he draws his starknife and hefts his shiny new shield as he takes point, casting his gaze all around an listening for any possible danger points as he leads the group onwards.
The main group moves forward warily while Albus splits from the group a little bit to try and find the source of the whisper. The ruined foundation of the orphanage looms closer. The last time the group saw it, it looked mournful, now it seems oddly threatening. The jagged remains of the foundation and the twisted beams of burnt timber starkly menacing against the deepening twilight.
Neither Albus or Javell's sharp eyes spot anything untowards
Suddenly a piercing scream rings out. It sounds like a shrill yell from a child in unimaginable pain. It comes from the North East, on the other side of the ruined orphanage from where Albus is investigating.
Lady Cirthiana is now breathing heavily and with an almost panicked look in her eyes. The rest of you are more hardened from your previous adventures.
We must... help she manages to say, clutching her holy symbol with a very tight grip.
Aelerie visibly startles at the scream despite all of her recent experience. Although the sound of the child's cries tugs at her heartstrings, the arcanist is slightly more wary than the priestess seems. "And we will, Lady Cirthana. Assuming what we find is not already beyond our help."
Following Javell's assertion, Aelerie intones a brief, familiar incantation; her eyes glow blue as they become attuned to any residual arcane energies in the area. As the group approaches the ruined orphanage, Aelerie's pace begins to slacken as she concentrates on maintaining her spell.
Albus sees nothing out of the ordinary, then hears the cries of a tortured child. He turns to bolt to the sound then a though causes caution. [i]That's a little on the nose isn't it.[i]
Albus swiftly rejoins the group greataxe in hand. "That sounds like the torture Jeva described doesn't it, a replay of sorts. We need to go in but be wary, this feels like a trap."
The group advances cautiously towards the sound of the scream, getting closer and closer to the suddenly ominous looking remains of the orphanage. When they gets close, in the deepening twilight, they see a figure in a figure dressed in grey rags standing stock still in front of what had been the front door which looked down the hill towardss Falcon's Hollow.
Now it turns its head and under its cowl you see.. absolutely nothing. Underneath the rags there is nothing but a howling darkness.
By this time Whisper has had enough and takes off with a loud whine, scampering away down the hill fleeing the unnatural apparition.
By now the Lady has a death grip on her amulet. Dear Lady of the Sword I beseech you protect us from the evils of the world she prays. We face a Ghost. Its touch causes grievous wounds and it can scare even the most stalwart with its moans. Magic. It is vulnerable to magic and holy energies. Oh protect us with your shield Dear Lady as we wish to be your sword in purging the world of evils in your name
As she prays off you hear a whisper, it sounds very young and you can't quite tell what direction it's coming from.
The first time I saw her, I called her skinny.
Suddenly very clearly behind you you hear the voice continue.
The next time I saw her I was lying at the bottom of the stairs. Looking up at her snarling at me. fatty, fAtty, faTTy, FATTY, FATTY!
The voice ascends to a high pitched SCREAM and you whirl around to see a young boy with his neck bent in a completely unnatural angle, his face is pale and his mouth is yawing open as he screams and screams and screams.
While most of you are able to hold your ground while the child with the broken neck screams, it is all too much for Aelerie and the Lady who are both overcome with the urge to get away from the madness.
Iomedae preserve us It is TOO MUCH! The cleric screams for her turn as she tries to scramble away in a most undignified manner. She flees towards the West and the setting sun as fast as she can.
While all of this is happening Laro gets hit, hard, in the head by an incredibly well aimed chunk of masonry. It's only his hardiness that keeps him from being knocked out from the blow.
As the rest of you whirl around to see where the attack came from you see that the the ghostly figure is suddenly much much more close to you.
Albus is taken aback by the terrible scene before him until the supernaturally terrifying scream cleaves through his mind, but with clarity not fear. Albus reacts quickly, seeing Whisper, Aelerie, and the Lady flee he runs to the ghost, drawing his greataxe and swings.
To hit target. Critical on a 20. Weapon Attunement +1 Hit and Damage., Power Attack -2 Hit +4 Damage.
Damage Weapon Attunement, Power Attack
To confirm a critical if rolled. Weapon Attunement +1 Hit and Damage., Power Attack -2 Hit +3 Damage, Bless.
Damage from critical X3, Weapon Attunement, Power Attack
Laro feels emboldened standing next to the Lady but dismayed as he sees her run off I thought she was supposed to protect us from these type of things.
Shaken, Laro moves up opposite Javell on the chubby kid and attacks him.
Javell cast his luck spell, as always, attempting to drive his starknif into Laro's attacker, but misses spectacularly.
Aelerie steels herself as she stares into the void beneath the creature's cowl. Her fingers crackle with violet energy as she calls up her magic, preparing to send the soul back to its rest. But her steely resolve shatters upon seeing the horrific spectre behind her. The magical energy she had been summoning dissipates, arcane words pushed from her mind by the overwhelming instinct to run. And she does, tearing off down the hill with the broken boy's terrifying scream still ringing in her ears—which she tries, unconsciously, to drown out with her own—and the sensation of cold fingers reaching for the back of her neck.
Albus and Javell miss, their blades seeming to pass through their foes like water. Laro's clumsy swing however seems to land on the child. A fresh wound appears on his belly and he clutches at himself before vanishing.
Two chunks of masonry fly towards Laro, but the halfling isn't as completely surprised as he was the first time it happened and he dodges both of them.
The ghost rotates to face Albus breathing.
Redemption. Failed. Now. VENGANCE.
It reaches out to touch the ranger and Albus is only barely able to move out of the way. The chill he feels from the outstretched hand makes his neck hairs stand on end and a freezing sensation travels throughout his body. He realizes that he does *not* want to be touched by the creature.
As Albus makes this realization he also notices slight swirls of dust that should not be happening on this, windless, twilight. One is 20 feet away from them to the east, the other is 30 feet away from them to the north, towards the orphanage.
Javell notices the swirl of dust 20 feet away from them also.
Whisper is nowhere to be seen but about sixty feet away you can spy the Lady huddled behind a boulder to the West.
Aelerie continues to run for her life, a small point of darkness moving across the deeper darkness of the landscape.
Albus cries, "Inheritor and Forestfather to our aid we plead." Albus looks a Javell, "Master Javell do you have any insight as to how we do? -" Albus breaks off as he spots the two swirls, "Unnatural swirling one at 20 feet east and one 30 feet north."
Albus desperately swings again on the apparition before him.
To hit target. Critical on a 20. Weapon Attunement +1 Hit and Damage., Power Attack -2 Hit +4 Damage.
Damage Weapon Attunement, Power Attack
To confirm a critical if rolled. Weapon Attunement +1 Hit and Damage., Power Attack -2 Hit +3 Damage, Bless.
Damage from critical X3, Weapon Attunement, Power Attack
Javell raises his starknife high, "Desna, cleanse this place!" he calls out, and a wave of starlight washes out from him, burning away at the undead around him.
Javell's burst of holy positive energy causes the whirling mounds of dust to falter but they keep going. The one 20 feet from them is ended though as Laro dashes towards it and plunges his magical sword deep into it. Whatever was causing the dust to swirl shrieks and then it fades away.
Another flying boulder flies at Javell but the warpriest is barely able to dodge it. As he does so the ghost takes another swing at Albus.
This time the brave ranger is unable to get out of the way of the ghostly touch. Severe pains racks his body and a severe chill settles over his bones that he tries to but fails to fight off.
Like the lifting of a veil, the oppressive feeling of fear suddenly clears from Aelerie's mind leaving shame and anger in its wake. Reacting to her seething temper, her magic stirs with a vengeance, covering her tightly clenched fists in violet energy. Whirling around, Aelerie marches determinedly back up toward the hill. She shouts something, but whatever it is is all but lost in the distance; the effect, however, is not. Three bolts of crackling magic light up the darkened grounds as they streak unerringly toward the ghost.