Keildrithe says nothing for a while and lets the words sink in after he finishes reading the scroll. Finally, he breaks the silence that his fallen upon his companions.
"No matter how I try to twist and turn the message in my mind, Gosia, you appear to be right. Perhaps this was all preordained by the old gods? And if it so, then perhaps Jirkin fulfilled his task as one of their messengers... Weep not, Gosia, weep not..."
The worry and sadness seem to lift from the bard's face as a new sense of purpose sets in. "So Laithe, Kajetan, you are right... west it is for us (and Alton)? Jarred, what more can you tell us of the lands to the west? What are they like? How wide is the forest, how far the nearest town? Do you know of others in the woods that we might turn to for aid, or of particular denizens that we must avoid at all cost? Do you have any other advice that might help us make the journey successfully?"
Once the ranger has provided his answer, Keildrithe will turn his attention to the mage. "Kajetan, I am pleased that you will be coming with us. And since it seems that the goblin spell book will go unclaimed, you may have it, if you wish... though I pray you will not fall victim to some vile taint as a result of gazing on its pages. But if you do not want it, then perhaps we would be better off burning it at the first opportunity."
Gosia takes back the offered pendant, explaining that it was a gift to her from Jarred.
Kajetan, you’re not really sure about the “martyr” reference in the verse. You suspect it has something to do with the Artonite religion, which seems to have more than it’s fair share of martyrs, but you cannot be sure.
Matters geographical, Barg is located in the far north west corner of the country of Mabvoria. This stretch of the Dimwood, and the rugged hills beyond to the west, form the border with the northern reaches of the kingdom of Thuringia. If you are remembering correctly, that would make the nearest largish town to the west … Lichford, perhaps a week or two’s journey away.
Kajetan looks to the Bard after several moments in thought, “You are right regarding the Goblin’s tome. No knowledge is worth the potential evil written on those pages. We should destroy it when the appropriate time comes.”
Kajetan:
Jarred nods at Kajetan’s mention of Lichford. “Aye, that’d be about right. I’ve been there once, many years back. A strange place, even for a town of the Artonite lands, though I’ve not been to many of them. There’s quite a large population of dwarves and gnomes, even some of your people I believe,” Jarred nods at Alton. “Rare for those lands, or even these!”
He looks thoughtful for a moment, lost in reflection. “Fact, I met one of the few decent Artonite preachers I’ve come across – begging your pardon Yruch,” (The paladin waves away the comment), “on my way back from Lichford, about fifteen years back. Stephan was his name I think – shared a campsite, a meal and a few stories with the man.” The ranger thinks some more. “He had some strange theories for an Artonite. Reckoned that a lot of what was written in their Book of Truth had been corrupted through the years, and he was part of some order that was looking for the real stories … the Order of Truth he called it. I got the feeling they were pretty secretive, not much liked by the rest of the clergy.”
Yruch speaks up. “Yes, I’ve heard of the Order of Truth. They were declared heretical by the Inquisition some years ago. Many of the order were rounded up and burnt, or else forced to publicly recant their heresy… you still hear of them from time to time though, operating in secret.”
Jarred looks thoughtful. “Well, at any rate, this Stephan seemed like a decent enough sort. Keildrithe, to answer your question on how to get to Lichford; if you head west from the valley along a path that I will show you, you should find the forest starts to thin about a day’s walk west from here. There is a moss covered standing stone by the forest path – that’s generally counted as the official edge of the Dimwood. You’ll reach a small river before sunset – don’t touch the water after the sun has gone down! It’s said that that stretch of water is haunted by a vodyanoi, but you should be safe enough if you camp a little away from the water.
“There is a path beside the river, heading north initially, then west. The river and path wind their way through a land of hills and light woods for several days – wild lands for the most part, but there are a few villages along the road – before meeting up with the Pembrose River. Follow that downstream and you’ll find Lichford.”
Laithe sits quietly and listens to the reading of the scroll and the ensuing discussion. He smiles at Keildrithe's compliment of seeing Laithe as a brother and thinks And I you, hedilye. He takes keen note of Jarred's instructions on the path to Lichford, keen to learn as much on the lay of the land as he can.
"Regarding the magic tomes - Jirkin's father felt his dream important enough to send his son to Gosia to pass it on. I feel he would be happy for those who would follow its course to make use of his son's book. Kajetan, if you can use it, you should take it. We can always aim to return it to Jirkin the Ninth at a later date.
"In regards to the goblin's tome I am a little more wary. Yet I feel evil is in the heart of the person, not in the tools he uses. In other circumstances the church might be correct in claiming that shapechangers do evil deeds. The shape I take on is capable of doing evil deeds, as is the sword wielded or the spell cast. Yet ultimately it is the individual that uses the power for good or evil. Kajetan I think you should use this tome with caution. If your heart tells you the contents are evil, then it should be burned. If however it provides you new tools, or tricks, to use in your pursuit of good, then it would be a shame to waste."
Changing topics he continues "If Lichford has a large population of smaller folk, then perhaps it is the 'town beset by half-size danger' mentioned in the verse" he comments as Jarred finishes his recollections of Lichford and the road there. "And perhaps this preacher Stephan, or one of his brothers in the Order of Truth is the 'martyrd stranger' mentioned?" He turns once more to Keildrithe "In your travels have you ever heard tell of this order or any of it's members?"
After giving Keildrithe a chance to reply, he turns to the group "What of our preparations for tomorrow? We have 4 horses between 7, though I would happily travel without, and if Alton doesn't mind he can possibly double with Keildrithe or Kajetan. Jarred, will the road we travel accomodate horses? And what of your path, or the one Yruch will take? In her current state Gosia may need the assistance of a horse to travel."
Turning to Gosia he speaks softly. "Lady, I know something in the way of healing and the Lady of the Forest grants me some power to assist my knowledge. You too, I hear, have knoweldge of the healing arts. Would you like to see if we can do anything about the state of your foot? If it requires re-breaking it will be painful, but we might be able to then heal it straight so that you may walk freely once more? What say you?"
"Regarding the magic tomes - Jirkin's father felt his dream important enough to send his son to Gosia to pass it on. I feel he would be happy for those who would follow its course to make use of his son's book. Kajetan, if you can use it, you should take it. We can always aim to return it to Jirkin the Ninth at a later date."In regards to the goblin's tome I am a little more wary. Yet I feel evil is in the heart of the person, not in the tools he uses. In other circumstances the church might be correct in claiming that shapechangers do evil deeds. The shape I take on is capable of doing evil deeds, as is the sword wielded or the spell cast. Yet ultimately it is the individual that uses the power for good or evil. Kajetan I think you should use this tome with caution. If your heart tells you the contents are evil, then it should be burned. If however it provides you new tools, or tricks, to use in your pursuit of good, then it would be a shame to waste."
Keildrithe nods his head in agreement. "Wise words on both counts, my friend. Given the way the Inquisitor has portrayed our own traditions as evil, I should have known better than to portray without question even goblin knowledge and magic in the same simplistic way." Looking at the paladin, the bard feels compelled to add to his last statement. "And, of course, Yruch and this Stephan make it clear that my portrayal of all Artonites as evil is not entirely correct, either..."
Changing topics he continues "If Lichford has a large population of smaller folk, then perhaps it is the 'town beset by half-size danger' mentioned in the verse" he comments as Jarred finishes his recollections of Lichford and the road there. "And perhaps this preacher Stephan, or one of his brothers in the Order of Truth is the 'martyrd stranger' mentioned?" He turns once more to Keildrithe "In your travels have you ever heard tell of this order or any of it's members?"
Keildrithe ponders for a moment the Order of the Truth, the town of Lichford, and the vodyanoi alluded to by Jarred, trying to remember stories he may once have heard in which those names appeared. The name Lichford in particular is worrisome...
"... I am also curious as to who this 'man without the beast within,' who is burdened by sin, may be," mutters Keildrithe. Then, as Laithe starts speaking to Gosia about healing -- possibly via re-breaking -- her foot, the bard becomes instantly silent and his skin pale. "Forgive me, but I don't think I can bear to watch that..." he murmurs, barely audibly.
“You should be able to ride most of the way to Lichford,” says Jarred. “Myself, I’d rather go by foot, if Gosia’s feet can take it; our path will mainly be through the forest, and by ways that horses will not easily traverse.”
Gosia accepts Laithe’s offer to look at her feet, whilst Yruch says that he has no wish to take one of the horses … he stops short of suggesting they should be returned to Barg.
Keildrithe, you have heard stories of the Order of Truth, but little more than what Jarred and Yruch have already relayed. You have no knowledge of the town of Lichford, beyond having heard the name before. Vodyanois are said to be elusive and quite possibly hostile – or at least unpredictable – water spirits, but you know little beyond that.
"Jarred... have you encountered a vodyanoi before? I have heard them to be elusive and quite possibly hostile -- or at least unpredictable -- water spirits... what more can you tell me about them? Do they have particular weaknesses? Might anything in particular bring them to parley? I hope we don't encounter these creatures, but just in case..."
“You should be able to ride most of the way to Lichford,” says Jarred. “Myself, I’d rather go by foot, if Gosia’s feet can take it; our path will mainly be through the forest, and by ways that horses will not easily traverse.”
Gosia accepts Laithe’s offer to look at her feet, whilst Yruch says that he has no wish to take one of the horses … he stops short of suggesting they should be returned to Barg.
While Keildrithe continues to discuss the road ahead with Jarred, Laithe settles down with Gosia, carefully unwrapping the bandages and taking a look at her foot. He draws on her knowledge of healing (assuming she has some) to try and assess what will be required to heal it.
As the group discusses Lichford and the possibility that this is the destination from the riddle in the letter, Kajetan nods, “After you all left in search of Jarred in the Valley of the Snails, I met a curious Gnome staying in Barg. A mapmaker by all accounts. His name is Brindle Westkey. Very friendly. He was looking for an escort back to Lichford. We may possibly run in to him on our journey.”
At the mention of the Book of Truth, Kajetan’s eyes go wide in wonderment for a moment. ‘Could these be one in the same of what I discovered back in Lorin. Could this still be part of my original mission here? Could this be some sort of destiny?’ Kajetan thinks to himself.
Laithe presents his ideas about the magic tomes, “If we have a mission to fulfill, any potential for aid should be kept. You are right in this. Lady Gosia, would you mind if I held on to Jirkin’s book? Information in here may help, and I promise, to the best of my ability, to keep it safe and return it to you or his family one day. As to the Goblin’s tomb … Maybe we can tuck it away and keep it safe. When I am more confident in my abilities, then maybe some use can come of it.”
Seeing Laithe go to Gosia to help heal her wound, Kajetan steps up, “Laithe, I have read books on anatomy. Maybe I can help."
Before departing, Kajetan shyly approaches Lady Gosia, “My Lady, I am glad you are well, and I hope for your safety for your journey with Jarred and for many years to come. I do not know if you sense the same unity I feel, but when I first gazed upon you, I felt a connection. A magical experience that seemed so real. I know this may seem strange, but I cannot shake out of my head what I saw. Once my task here is done, I hope to return to find you well, so then I may relate my dreams and experiences.” Kajetan looks down for a moment, then slowly lifts his head. Speaking softly, he looks into Lady Gosia’s eyes, “My Lady, do you at all feel this connection … ?” The scholar lets his words trail away as he looks at her hopefully almost to the point of desperation.
Between them, Laithe and Kajetan – with help from the lady herself – are able to assess what is needed to restore Gosia’s injured foot, although in the end the druid decides to wait until the morning when his healing magics are available.
Gosia has no issues with Kajetan taking Jirkin’s spellbook; “As I said, I think he would have preferred you to have it, if you can use it.”
Jarred and Keildrithe meanwhile are discussing vodyanoi. “Never have I faced one,” admits the ranger. “I’ve heard only stories, and they vary wildly in describing the spirits’ desires and abilities. I would say that if you find yourself in a position to fight one, do not do so in the water! That is where they are at their strongest … and keep your minds strong, to avoid being lured in … The good thing is that most other dangerous creatures of the woods avoid the banks by the vodyanoi’s haunt, so long as you do not enter the water you should be safe enough.”
In the quiet moment they catch alone, Gosia looks back into Keildrithe’s eyes. “I believe that you have a touch of the elven about you Kajetan – and in me, it is obvious.” She looks at him again. “Yes,” she says slowly, “I recognise something in you … more like a memory or a dream of a recognition … or like I recognise in you someone that I once knew ….” She briefly takes Kajetan’s hand, squeezes it, then turns away.
Kajetan accepts the small comfort that Gosia gives him quietly and vows to find out more when the time is right. The scholar settles in for a night’s rest. Tucked safe inside his pack are the two newly acquired tomes. He dreams of fairies, joy, and dancing in a grove.
Alton looks up and animatedly says "To Lichford then? I've got a cousin there. Cousin Brom. He's a carpenter. I've not seen him in ages. We used to play together when we were children and were quite good friends, at least until uncle moved to Lichford. It'll be good to see him again." with a smile. Realizing he's babbling, Alton quites down and then says "I'll share a horse with whomever I must. Kaejatan, I'm glad you'll be staying with us. I don't understand the arcane arts, but I appreciate how useful you can be. Besides, its always nice to have another friend with you on a dangerous road."
Eventually the conversation dies down, night watches are organised, and people drift off to sleep.
The night passes safely, and in the grey, pre-dawn light Jarred begins shaking people awake, ready for the day’s travel – and the inevitable farewells.
Kajetan wakes slowly from Jarred‘s prodding. After two nights of sleeping outside and a full day of horse riding, the scholar is quite sore and stiff. After stretching his back, limbs, and neck, he gathers his things to prepare for another hard day of traveling. "Adventurers in books never said how tough sleeping was. They always focused on riddles and monsters. Right now, I'd face a Goblin for a warm bed," Kajetan gives a small grin to whomever might be listening.
When it is time, Kajetan says brief goodbyes to Jarred and Yruch. Never really getting to know them, the scholar was lost for words other than 'safe journey' and 'well-wishing'. His eyes do fall briefly on Gosia and he smiles, “Hopefully one day we will meet again. I bid you farewell. May your new life be filled with joy, happiness, and always, much wonder.”
Before settling to sleep, Laithe spends some time at the edge of the camp in meditation, communing with Ehlonna and requesting more magic that may be of use in the next day.
Laithe awakes early, feeling rested and happy at the prospect of a week out in the wilderness. He smiles slightly as Kajetan's discomfort - sympathetic yet not necessarily sharing the man's sentiment about a bed.
He moves over to Gosia, calling Jarred and Kajetan over to help, and works on her foot, quickly casting a healing spell once the grim work is done.
As the group readies to leave. He grips Yruch's hand "Travel well my friend - I hope to cross paths with you in the future". He repeats the gesture with both Gosia and Jarred, not overly good at goodbyes. Once everyone has said their farewells, he calls Gosia, Jarred and Yruch over briefly.
Touching each of them in turn he says "May the lady of the forests cover your tracks so that you leave no trace." After completing the spell he says quickly "You will have about 3 hours in which you will leave no tracks or sign of your passing. It should ensure that anyone who follows will follow our trail, hopefully finding no sign that you have left the group and thus leave you untroubled. Push hard for the 3 hours to gain us much distance from this spot as possible. Be safe, and may the Lady watch over you."
All done, Laithe readies himself to leave.
Keildrithe sits astride his horse and watches his companions bid farewell to one another. The bard seems unusually detached this morning, and eager to hit the road.
As the party members prepare to go their separate ways, Keildrithe begins to beat his beldach gently. "This is an old Karandic hymn that my grandfather would recite when his mind would turn to my grandmother, who had passed away many years before him," says the bard in a solemn voice over the stirring beat of the drum. "I dedicate it to Jirkin, but also to you, my lady Gosia... and to Yruch and Jarred... For it speaks to far away friends as much as it does to deceased loved ones, especially in these dark times..."
Where have you gone
My love, my friend
Somewhere without the rain
I feel afraid now, I feel alone
Will we meet again?
Can you recall what we once knew
Somewhere without the pain
I feel afraid now, but not alone
We will meet again
I can't hear your voice
But you know I feel your soul
Where have you gone
My love, my friend
Somewhere without any pain
I'm not afraid now, I'm not alone
We will meet again
Then, as Keildrithe kicks his horse into a canter and leads the way into the forest, the morning breeze carries another poem from his lips to his companions as they each go their own way:
When the dark wood fell before me
And all the paths were overgrown
When the priests of pride say there is no other way
I tilled the sorrows of stone
I did not believe because I could not see
Though you came to me in the night
When the dawn seemed forever lost
You showed me your love in the light of the stars
Cast your eyes on the ocean
Cast your soul to the sea
When the dark night seems endless
Please remember me
Then the mountain rose before me
By the deep well of desire
From the fountain of forgiveness
Beyond the ice and the fire
Cast your eyes on the ocean
Cast your soul to the sea
When the dark night seems endless
Please remember me
Though we share this humble path, alone
How fragile is the heart
Oh give these clay feet wings to fly
To touch the face of the stars
Breathe life into this feeble heart
Lift this mortal veil of fear
Take these crumbled hopes, etched with tears
We'll rise above these earthly cares
Cast your eyes on the ocean
Cast your soul to the sea
When the dark night seems endless
Please remember me
THE END OF EPISODE I
I listen, smiling to Keildrithe's song, staring off into the horizon. It feels good to be on the road again. To be free. As he finishes I look to my companions and new friends "Shall we be off then? There's a lot of the world we've yet to walk upon, a lot of sights unseen, a lot of friends and foes un-met and the day's not getting any longer."
Jarred, Gosia and Yruch wave their farewells as the three groups begin their separate journeys out of the Valley of Snails in the crisp morning light.
The End.
(of Episode 1 as Keildrithe says).
Kajetan rides along listening to Keildrithe's song and looking around at the nature surrounding him. The song relaxes him and his mind drifts off. The scholar thinks about the group's recent accomplishments and the promises of Lichford and the riddle written in the letter.
Laithe notices Keildrithe's unusual behaviour, but its significance is lost on him, and all to soon any further thought of it is forgotten in the enchanting music of the talented bard.
As they start making their way from the valley, Laithe turns and takes a last look at the beauty of the valley spreading out behind him. His eyes follow the path taken by Gosia & Jarred, and Yruch, and as he catches a brief glimpse at them, he feels confident that they will escape the persecution of Vorn and the church, at least for the short term.
Finally he looks to his new companions, men he did not know a week ago. So much had happened in so little time, that he could scarcely imagine leaving this valley without them by his side.
Turning back to the road ahead, a slight smile breaks through his often stern facade. They had done well and made a difference, at least in a small way. Despite the fact they were not free of danger and had not gotten through unscathed, for the first time in a long while he felt he was not helpless to events taking place around him. He felt some hope for the future.
Throughout the journey, Kajetan spends time with Laithe learning the language of his people. Kajetan is a quick learner and pays attention to the surrounding countryside to better familiarize himself with the land. This allows him to better blend in and draw less attention to himself.
Throughout the journey, Kajetan spends time with Laithe learning the language of his people. Kajetan is a quick learner and pays attention to the surrounding countryside to better familiarize himself with the land. This allows him to better blend in and draw less attention to himself.
Laithe happily spends what time on the road he can with Kajetan, teaching him what he can of the Karandic tongue. With his ability as a teacher somewhat below par, he appeals to Keildrithe whenever he is struggling to get the proper meaning of a word over.
In turn he asks the sorcerer about his history - where he comes from and what events led him to Barg. He does likewise with Keildrithe and Alton, around the campfire at night. Though he had picked up bits and pieces of their backgrounds, the hectic events of the last week had prevented a more in-depth telling of their stories.
Kajetan tells of his homeland of Lorin. He describes the vast orchards and farmlands surrounding great cities filled with amazing institutions of learning. He explains in great detail his time in the libraries inundated with books and great tomes. Kajetan goes on to explain that he originally traveled here in search of hands-on learning and knowledge.
When Kajetan has a chance, he pulls out Jirkin's tomb and pours over its pages. He keeps the Goblin's tomb hidden though, not ready to take that step yet.
Kajetan tells of his homeland of Lorin. He describes the vast orchards and farmlands surrounding great cities filled with amazing institutions of learning. He explains in great detail his time in the libraries inundated with books and great tomes. Kajetan goes on to explain that he originally traveled here in search of hands-on learning and knowledge.
** spoiler omitted **
Laithe listens with great interest while Kajetan tells of his homeland, though he does get the feeling there is more to the story than the sorcerer is letting on. He shrugs inwardly I'm sure it will be revealed in time.
During the day's ride I eagerly listen as Laithe begins to teach Kaejatan Karrandic, eager to learn the language myself.
That night when we stop to camp I listen as stories of my new companions past deeds are told, finally adding my story to the night's tales. "I'm just a simple halfling trying to do good in a world with far too few kindered souls. There's really not much to my story; I became a squire to an old warrior and ffrom him I learnt my trade. I was going to become a defender of our village and join our guard but my mentor told such tales of his past exploits that I instead left my home to see the world, paying my way as a mercenary. I didn't have any particular goal in mind, I just wandered, following the jobs. Eventually that brought me to Barg. The rest you know." I say.
Eventually when everyone seems prepared to sleep I say "We should have watches; we can't be certain we've entirely escaped detection from the Artonites and even if we have there are plenty of danger's in the wilderness. I'll take whatever watch I must."
The next morning I approach Kaejatan, presenting him with the dagger I found and asking him "Can you use your arcane senses to determine if this has magical properties? I found it on our journey into the Valley of the Snails."
Laithe happily spends what time on the road he can with Kajetan, teaching him what he can of the Karandic tongue. With his ability as a teacher somewhat below par, he appeals to Keildrithe whenever he is struggling to get the proper meaning of a word over.
In turn he asks the sorcerer about his history - where he comes from and what events led him to Barg. He does likewise with Keildrithe and Alton, around the campfire at night. Though he had picked up bits and pieces of their backgrounds, the hectic events of the last week had prevented a more in-depth telling of their stories.
Keildrithe's sullen mood improves as the days pass, and his former cares seem to gradually melt away. During the journey, the bard chimes in to aid Laithe in the Karandic instruction of their companions whenever the latter requires it. He even smiles with pride on occasion, seeing the progress that Alton and Kajetan are making so quickly with the language. "It is good to see that even outsiders wish to learn our tongue, and in so doing help in keeping it and our culture alive."
Keildrithe also seeks to learn about woodland lore from Laithe, following the latter as he forages for berries, identifies plants along the trail, and interprets the behaviour of animals as well as their tracks. "My father and grandfather had taught me much concerning the gifts of the land, though I have forgotten much since they passed on. I am grateful for this opportunity to remember this lore, my brother... I feel it deepening my spiritual connection to the land, a connection the Artonites had broken for many long years..."
He listens closely as Kajetan relates his story. "Kajetan, we are grateful to you for sharing your story. Alton, Laithe and I have already shared much of our own past with one another prior to meeting you, for we felt it essential to share such things given the uncertainty of our fate during our quest to liberate Gosia. Someone should know of the other's deeds, if only to be able to carry words of praise for their brave deeds to the community and loved ones long after they have gone. But if it does not bother Alton and Laithe to hear my tale one more time, then I will gladly share it... . Kajetan, I believe I overheard you tell Gosia that you had met her before, or had some kind of connection with her... is this something you are willing to discuss with us, or is this too... personal? I must admit that this untold aspect of your story intrigues me... would a scholar really have had much reason to come to a backwoods town like Barg, if there weren't a deeper personal motive? Of course, I will respect your privacy and beg your forgiveness if this is something you do not wish to share..."
Keildrithe agrees with Alton's assessment that a watch is necessary at all times during their nights on the road.
He tries his hand at archery with Atrek's long bow, but before long gives up in frustration, as the weapon seems to require exceptional strength to draw back the string.
"I wonder what we will find in Lichford, if Fharlanghn wills that we should find the place... the name of the town is not very reassuring... and you say you have an uncle there, Alton?"
Keildrithe also recommends that the party steer clear of hamlets and homesteads until they leave the forest ("lest the inhabitants should give away our direction to Vorn's men... We can sell off what we want to get rid of once we reach Lichford or more distant points...").
During one night, several days into their journey, various items are brought out of packs and bags. The companions sit around the warmth of a campfire as they discuss what to do with these items. Kajetan mostly stays silent and listens, since he was not part of the gathering of these items. Eventually, Alton presents an interesting dagger to the scholar. Taking the dagger, he closes his eyes for a moment and whispers something under his breath. Opening his eyes shortly after, Kajetan peers over at the Halfling, “This is no ordinary dagger. If you would like, I could study this a bit longer and find out more information on the blade.”
Coin is also presented and split between everyone. Kajetan tries to decline but Laithe insists. After a nod and a smile, the scholar tucks his share in a pouch and says, “I will use this to benefit our cause, and I thank you.”
Throughout the night, conversation and company is good. Kajetan learns much about his new friends. Keildrithe gives a very detailed and interesting account regarding his heritage. His eyes widen at first and he jerks at the mention of Gosia, but he quickly calms and relates what he could, “It is actually very strange. No, I never actually met Gosia before, but when I saw her for the first time up on the pyre, something very strange happened. I looked at her and it was like the world disappeared, and I had a vision. I was with her, and we were dancing in a forest, but we were … we were,” Kajetan uses hand gestures to try and think of the proper term, “I guess the word would be incorporeal. As if we were there in this real place, but we were not real. Well, as quickly as this vision came, it faded. I do not understand this connection and never intended finding it while in Barg. But, believe me,” Kajetan gives a smile, “I am glad I found it.”
Kajetan then goes on to explain that his scholarly research originally led him to Barg, but the events of that fateful day a fortnight or so ago changed many things. Kajetan smiles again, “Now, I am an outlaw. Maybe when we are done, I will write my own book about our tales, or if we are lucky, someone will see our heroism for what it is and write the tale about us. Maybe even a future Hedilye.”
Keildrithe also seeks to learn about woodland lore from Laithe, following the latter as he forages for berries, identifies plants along the trail, and interprets the behaviour of animals as well as their tracks. "My father and grandfather had taught me much concerning the gifts of the land, though I have forgotten much since they passed on. I am grateful for this opportunity to remember this lore, my brother... I feel it deepening my spiritual connection to the land, a connection the Artonites had broken for many long years..."
Laithe eagerly teaches Keildrithe what he knows of nature and survival in the wilderness, happy to have someone to share the knowledge with, as it was shared with him in times which now seem long past. He talks about his life before the Artonites upheaved it. Occassionally he has to stop and fight against tears as the recollections bring back memories of those he had lost. Mostly though the memories are fond ones, and he finds it helpful to talk about them.
Keildrithe also recommends that the party steer clear of hamlets and homesteads until they leave the forest ("lest the inhabitants should give away our direction to Vorn's men... We can sell off what we want to get rid of once we reach Lichford or more distant points...").
Laithe agrees to avoid towns and civilisation as much as possible until they reach Lichford. "We are likely to find a better market for that we wish to sell anyway in the bigger town. And I agree it wise to give Vorn as little trail as possible to follow."
During one night, several days into their journey, various items are brought out of packs and bags. The companions sit around the warmth of a campfire as they discuss what to do with these items. Kajetan mostly stays silent and listens, since he was not part of the gathering of these items. Eventually, Alton presents an interesting dagger to the scholar. Taking the dagger, he closes his eyes for a moment and whispers something under his breath. Opening his eyes shortly after, Kajetan peers over at the Halfling, “This is no ordinary dagger. If you would like, I could study this a bit longer and find out more information on the blade.”
"I'd be very grateful if you did." I say and leave my dagger with him so that he may perform whatever rituals he must.
"Aye, I've got an uncle there. I don't know know anything about Lichford though."
Pharris:
Kajetan returns the dagger to Alton. "Sorry my friend. At this time, I have not the supplies required to determine the uses hidden in this dagger."
Kajetan returns the dagger to Alton. "Sorry my friend. At this time, I have not the supplies required to determine the uses hidden in this dagger."
"Oh well. What do you need for your spell?"
"Well ... let's see. First a rather expensive jewel called a pearl, for starters. I would also need some wine and a feather from an owl. Hey, don't ask me why. The world is strange. What is stranger is that I really do not know how I know how to do these things."
"Well ... let's see. First a rather expensive jewel called a pearl, for starters. I would also need some wine and a feather from an owl. Hey, don't ask me why. The world is strange. What is stranger is that I really do not know how I know how to do these things."
"Wait, a pearl? I think we got some of those from the goblins. Hey Keildrithe, didn't we find some pearls in the Valley?"
With the pearls brought to the scholar's attention, Kajetan lifts out his hand, "May I see them?" Holding them horizontal and using the fire as a light source, Kajetan closes one eye and peers into the misshapen jewels.
Kajetan lowers the pearls, "Hmmmm, it is too dark. The fire does not give off enough light. Maybe the daylight will be more fruitful."
"Wow, what a glorious sun to appraise jewels in," Kajetan smiles as he basks in the morning light.
Keildrithe produces the requested pearls and hands them to Kajetan. "Are they worth anything?"
These pearls are a far cry from the lustrous jewels sometimes prised from the grip of oysters and clams off the coast of Lorin. Rather, these are small, misshapen and off colour stones, semi precious at best, and you wonder what sort of small or sickly mollusc may have produced them. Still, they would no doubt have some value in lower end jewellery – you estimate them as being worth perhaps 10 gold coins each.