Sivui's readied attack grounds the peasant with the rake before he can threaten Levelle. The man falls forward on the ground, prone, and his life blood begins pouring out of him.
Davor you are last in the round, and it is still Round 2
"Foolish people..."
Sandman bends over and performs firstaid on the fallen man with the rake. (he was #10 right?) He rather not see these people die, even though they attacked us first.
Heal
Sandman's efforts to resuscitate the foolish peasant soothe him but does not stop the bleeding. He still breathes and his heart continues to beat, however, so he is not dead.
Round 3
The battle map remains the same as in the previous post.
Levelle, your action, please. And Uriah, your total defense action has been noted.
Round 3
Sandman draws his light crossbow and loads it. He then takes aim at one of the peasants that can see and hear him and says, "Do not make me shoot this son. Go home to your family and embrace the living. Don't worry about the already dead."
If there are none awake, or they have all fled, Sandman attempts to stabilize the dying man again.
Heal
Levelle frowns as the man at the half-orc's feet fleetingly clings to life. Stepping over him she mutters I cannot help him, I hope you can. and walks to the front of the casket where the peasant is attacking the stranger in the coat and hat.
In a clear voice she will raise her hand to the man, We are stronger than you. We run the risk of taking your life to defend ourselves. Stop this and leave.
Seeking to end the bloodshed before anyone suffers permanent hard, Arkadi seeks to lay low anyone who doesn't seem in the mood to flee on their own.
Silvui twirls his Urumi around his head staring menacingly at peasant 7, the blood of his comrade flying off the blade whip in all directions. He moves around the coffin to better defend it, hoping his threat has finally been understood.
Andrezi's grin widens as he sees men flee. "Begone fools. My brother once killed four men with a coffee cup, and he's got his best weapon with him." He whirls his guisarme in a complicated series of feints and rolls, seeming to jab towards one of the men a dozen times at once, then yells "HHHYYYYAAAHHH!!!"
And is unsurprised to see Peasant 4 shake and jump back as he does so.
Peasant Fortitude Save to Stabilize
Round 3
Uriah and Levelle's threats, Silvui's quick work on one of their brethren and their blood swinging from his foreign weapon, and the peasant's complete inability to penetrate your superior defenses, those who remain lose their enthusiasm for the exercise, and flee. Andrezi is left screaming after their exit, the display of his martial prowess and his roar serve only to haunt the sudden silence in the Restlands. Sandman, your efforts with the peasant felled by Silvui's attack seem to take, and his breathing, though thready, seems to become more regular.
The Aftermath
Kendra is shaken by standing witness to the attack, but Andrezi's strange behavior seems to have inspired some amount of confidence, or levity. "You must forgive them," she pleads, "they were only defending what they believe is theirs."
Shortly after the fray, a rather sedate, elderly man wearing roughly spun gray robes and Pharasma's holy symbol arrives, accompanied by a young novice. The priest kneels beside one of the combatants put to sleep by Levelle's spell to determine his condition, and then rises and studies each of you in turn, his eyes narrowing in recognition of Levelle's obvious lack of armor, and he gives a firm nod. He looks to the Sandman, who remains beside the fallen, and approaches the bulk of the group.
"Allow me," he says, touches his holy symbol channels a measure of magic to heal the peasant's wounds, and any that you have taken as well. "My flock is unwieldy of late. I believed that I had addressed their concerns, but it seems that my guidance fell upon deaf ears," he sighs. He looks to Levelle. "Your mercy is well received, Mistress. Have you any objection to my novice rousing these men and letting them return to their homes?"
Uriah sheathes his sword in disgust. He glances at Silvui before moving to stand between the man and the fallen peasant.
"That was brash. These men were no threat to us and you try to kill them?"
The Professor kept stranger company than I knew.
Andrezi sheathed his weapon across his back once more, removing his brass knuckles and looping them into his belt, then stepped next to his brother. "My brother knows his own strengths, the man was in no danger, and he was only making sure they didn't get near the coffin."
Uriah looks pointedly down at the man lying on the ground, his life saved only by the actions of others.
"No, your brother is a fool who almost killed another fool and dishonored the memory of a man who deserves better than this."
Uriah walks away from the group to await the old priests ministrations and allow the misguided peasants to flee.
I've left one hellhole for another it seems. Are there no heroes left in this world?
Levelle looks about the scene and frowns, Not what I was expecting...
Noting the terse exchange between the man in the strange coat and the man with the polearm, Levelle looks over the "brother" and the damage he seemed to have done to the peasant before him.
I wonder, skilled as you or your brother are, do you have the training or mental reserve to detach your frustration at this interruption from the punishment you met out upon those who violate these proceedings?
Levelle puts her hand up suddenly. An intellectual debate for another time perhaps. We are strangers and each person's customs are…so very very strange… Levelle's words fade for a moment as she notes those men that are fleeing, those who are soon to stir or rise from their humiliation and the one whose life was on the balance of death. Perhaps it is best we finish these proceedings. I am sure the rights of the dead are more important than the debate, valid though it may be, about the use of lethal action in the face of threats or lack of honor.
Turning abruptly on her heel Levelle approaches Kendra. I believe when you are ready we should move on.
Silvui quietly wraps his weapon around his waist twice and then across his shoulder finally looping the hilt in the small of his back. He frowns at Uriahs words but remains silent allowing his brother to speak for his actions, as is their custom.
He listens to the elvish womens words his eyes narrowing. he turns to his brother and whispers to him I dont like this brother, we should bury the professor and leave as soon as possible.
The elderly priest and his acolyte, joined by the gentleman who attended Kendra at the gate rouse their sleeping comrades. The priest bends beside the leader and exchanges a number of words with the man, and offers his hand to help him to rise, but his assistance is refused. The leader rises on his own power, and furnishes your group with a glare where his associates simply gather their tools and exit.
You gather the Professor's coffin again and assist him to his grave. The elderly priest delivers a short sermon with an air of a standard and well practiced benediction, but it is not ill intended. From what you know of the Professor, he was not one to bend his ear lightly to the agents of the divine, and it is likely that the priest has no great personal knowledge of the man to impart. He invites Kendra to share her thoughts about her father, to support his soul's passing.
Kendra appears to gather her courage and mindful of her feet, steps forward. She recounts a tale which gives an impression of the Professor you are not likely to have experienced, that of the kind and patient man that was her father. The expression on her face is slightly hopeful when she leans down to grab a bit of earth and tosses it onto the coffin. "We will meet again, Papa," she says softly.
Kendra inhales, and dabs at her eyes again, and then looks to you. "Let us not allow the weather and the poor behavior of the villagers sully this rite. It would honor my father if you would share your memories of him, as well."
The tension drains from Arkadi as the remnants of the mob flee. "Poor souls, blinded by fear and anger. The poisons of Ustalav's past are tenacious." He keeps a stern glare fixed on the sleepers as they are awoken and shuffled off.
With a bowed head he listens respectfully to the priest's sermon and mutters a few prayers of his own. After Kendra tells her story and asks for others to speak he raises his voice. "I never socialized much with the Professor. Certainly I can't tell you a story as intimate as his daughter's. But what I remember most about his character is that he always wanted to know the truth. He didn't let danger or superstition make him take the easy answer. He was a man of learning who always tried to learn more. That's something I respect."
"Even an unskilled hand with a farm tool can strike a lethal blow. Although I don't agree with the lethality of Silvui's attack in this case, they were given fair warning, I cannot fault him for protecting him self. Luckily the man will survive. Desna's guidance has prevented causalities this day, and for that I am thankful."
.....
When it is Sandman's turn he groggily says "I did not know the professor as well a many of you must have. I had only met him once, in passing. I helped him out when he was attacked by monsters. afterwords we sat and chatted for a while and I must have made an impression on him to be invited here today. He was a good man with a good head on his shoulders. Others could learn alot form his example."
Levelle watches the proceedings of the burial ritual with an alert gaze. She had never seen a Pharasmite ritual, or human burials (the last few humans she knew who died were either sent from Greengold or buried in Elven tradition) so it was quite fascinating. Levelle thought for a moment to take out a book and prepare some notes on the event but then she frowned because she realized she had only brought her spellbook and then frowned because she realized the other might think the behavior odd....of course, were they as interested in things as she was perhaps they wouldn't.
Levelle nods to herself that her thinking on the matter is correct when she catches the eyes of the pastor who had given the sermon. Others had been speaking but there was silence and she construes the eye contact as indicating Levelle should speak. Clearing her throat Levelle steps ever so slightly towards the casket.
The Professor and I talked often of my home, and the accomplishments of my people. He asked many questions about the rituals and history of our magic. He enjoyed various topics such as the poly-dynamic spell harmonic theories and the concept of using moondew and bottled sun as substitutes for rare spell component reagents in the application of...
Levelle ticks her head ever so slightly and looks out at the graveyard. She closes her eyes for a second and and then reopens them.
He was tenacious and vibrant. He was a true scholar and he loved my home and that was wonderful. He was so...well...not human in his love and connection to the world of my people. It now occurs to me how sad it is that his great quest for information is over... Levelle's voice fades and she simply steps back and looks around ready for the next person to speak.
Once the others have spoken their peace Uriah calmly steps forward. He removes his hat and you see a mane of unruly black hair tied back out of his face. His left eye is blue and the right is green.
"Not much of a talker, pretty words ain't my style. I knew the Professor, was a good man. World's a mite uglier without him in it. 'spect that's all I got to say about it."
Uriah bends down and grabs some mud in his left hand, throwing it on the casket after Kendra's. Stepping back and putting is hat back on, Uriah waits expectantly for the rest of the funeral.
Kendra remains beside the grave for a good time more, watching the attendants shovel wet earth onto her father's coffin. When it is fully covered, she speaks to the remainder of the party, thanking them for their support on this day. The boy who assisted you in carrying the Professor's casket is given a hug, from which he breaks with the typical awkwardness of youth, red faced and staggering, looking for a time towards the attractive Kendra Lorrimor, who addresses your group once more.
"My father's will is to be read at our residence within the hour," she says. "We've not much in terms of refreshments, but the fire is warm and it is dry."
Kendra leads the group down the muddied path from the Restlands and across a covered bridge spanning a river and through the city of Ravengro's cobbled main street to a modest home near a tributary spring. As you approach, the rain seems to let up slightly, allowing some manner of sunlight to peak through the storm clouds, casting eerie shadows across the edifice of the house, and if you care to look, about the city as well.
Professor Petros Lorrimor's home is what one might expect a Wizard might keep, Spartan, dull, and filled near bursting with books. Every common room, and you can assume, perhaps more than a few of them private as well, is lined with bookshelves filled to capacity, some even bowing in the middle from the weight of their charge, yet oddly, upon further investigation, there is not one speck of dust nor the mildewed smell of rot commonly associated with large collections of tomes displayed by the affluent. It lends to the impression that until recently, Petros Lorrimor's home was a living library.
Almost precisely an hour after you have arrived, there is a knock on the door. Kendra, who is dutifully attending your conversations, rises to answer the call. There is some discussion at the door, and she returns with this man who you recognize from the funeral, and whom identifies himself as Councilman Vashian Heathmount, Ravengro's local and only solicitor. Kendra shows you all to Petros's study, where he assumes the Professor's chair. He produces a scroll case sealed with wax stamped with what Kendra recognizes is her father's seal, then breaks it, causing a key to fall on the desk and from the scroll within reads the following:
Professor Petros Lorrimor's Will
“I, Petros Lorrimor, being of sound mind, do hereby commit to this parchment my last will and testament. Let it be known that, with the exception of the specific details below, I leave my home and personal belongings entire to my daughter Kendra. Use them or sell them as you see fit, my child.
“Yet beyond the bequeathing of my personal effects, this document must serve other needs. I have arranged for the reading of this document to be delayed until all principals can be in attendance, for I have more than mere inheritance to apportion. I have two final favors to ask.
“To my old friends, I hate to impose upon you all, but there are few others who are capable of appreciating the true significance of what it is I have to ask. As some of you know, I have devoted many of my studies to all manner of evil, that I might know the enemy and inform those better positioned to stand against it. For knowledge of one’s enemy is the surest path to victory over its plans.
“And so, over the course of my lifetime, I have seen fit to acquire a significant collection of valuable but dangerous tomes, any one of which in the wrong circumstances could have led to an awkward legal situation. While the majority of these tomes remain safe under lock and key at the Lepidstadt University, I fear that a few I have borrowed remain in a trunk in my Ravengro home. While invaluable for my work in life, in death, I would prefer not to burden my daughter with the darker side of my profession, or worse still, the danger of possessing these tomes herself. As such, I am entrusting my chest of tomes to you, posthumously. I ask that you please deliver the collection to my colleagues at the University of Lepidstadt, who will put them to good use for the betterment of the cause.
“Yet before you leave for Lepidstadt, there is the matter of another favor – please delay your journey one month and spend that period of time here in Ravengro to ensure that my daughter is safe and sound. She has no one to count on now that I am gone and if you would aid her in setting things in order for whatever she desires over the course of this month, you would have my eternal gratitude. From my savings, I have also willed you each a sum of one hundred platinum coins. For safekeeping, I have left these funds with Embreth Daramid, one of my most trusted friends in Lepidstadt – she has been instructed to issue this payment upon the safe delivery of the borrowed tomes no sooner than one month after the date of the reading of this will.
“I, Petros Lorrimor, hereby sign this will in Ravengro on this first day of Calistril, in the year 4711.”
After the will has been read, the Councilman looks to Kendra, who politely excuses him. He takes a sweeping glance at all of you, then rises and takes his leave.
"I will need some weeks to put my affairs in order," she tells all of you. "As my father said, you are welcome to stay, here if you wish, there is no lack of space," she says hopefully.
"I believe that I know where these tomes are, if you will excuse me."
Uriah enjoys the warmth of the home. He takes care to shake the water off his coat and hat before entering the home and then politely hands them up in the appropriate place. He takes his boots off and cleans the mud off before entering the Professors home.
[ooc]Oh to have prestidigitation.[/occ]
Now that he has shed his great coat and hat you see a young man of less than two decades. His body is lean but you can see it is more a case of hard living than constant exercise. His right hand is badly scarred but seems no less agile than the left. At his right side is sheathed a sword and on his left a strange device whose curved handle is set near the belt buckle.
After the reading of the will Uriah sits back in his chair and moves his hand as if to tip his hat back.
"Well Kendra that's interesting, and I've nowhere else to go so I'll take your kind offer, but this will begs a question so forgive me if I seem a mite rude in the asking. How did your father die?"
Andrezi remains silent at the funeral, his head heavy with thoughts unkind, and not wishing to embarass the professor with his fool words. Among the others at the house he attempts to be more fun, with an open smile and an easy joke for everyone (Most of them as dirty as you'd expect from the streets of Caliphas).
At the mention of the money his eyes light up. A hundred platinum would feed Mother and little Iozef for a year at least. Then me and my brother can look for more honest work. Oh Professor, you're looking out for us even from beyond the grave. He feels momentarily sad and then chastises himself for thinking of the money like that.
"Allow me to help you Kendra. I'd not let such a fine woman carry a heavy box alone." He stands, with a significant look to his brother, and follows her.
Sandman listens silently during the reading of the will. His attention peaked at mention of the tomes. After the councilman leaves, Sandman says to Kendra in is usual sleepy tone. "Desna has sent me to this country to do good, and I cannot believe meeting the professor and now learning of all this is no mere coincidence. Thank you Kendra. I will also accept the offer of staying here, if you would have me."
Kendra frowns, then shakes her head. Her voice when she answers Uriah is somewhat broken. "He was investigating at the Harrowstone, and a statue fell on him," she replies. "He was always so careful, and knew the prison better than any here might claim. I do not understand how it might have happened."
When Andrezi offers to help her, Kendra is visibly relieved. "Thank you, Andrezi," she says.
Andrezi
Kendra leads you through the house and the tidy kitchen to a small wooden door. A lantern lies just inside, continuously lit, it seems. Kendra takes it from the hook and leads you down the narrow stair to the Professor's basement, and when you look up, and all along the walls, you can see that it has been fitted with some manner of metal. Potions, beakers and books of all shapes and sizes reside within. On one workbench you see a rig with liquid still in it, notes and a quill stuck in ink stationed beside it, but when you investigate, there are not but a few words on the page, and none of any significance. It appears as though the Professor was beginning an experiment when he was called away. Kendra clears her throat and draws your attention to a narrow closet, where the chest in question lies. You lift it, and Kendra guides your way back up the stair.
All
Kendra sets a simple oaken chest on the desk. There is a padlock holding it closed. Kendra takes the key on the table asks if one of you will do the honors of unlocking the chest. Within you find five books, four elder tomes and one younger, stacked on top with the phrase "Read me now!" scratched into the leather surface.
Upon investigation you find that this is Professor Lorrimor's personal Journal. It dates back several years, but as you page through its contents, several passages are highlighted.
Ten Years Ago
The Whispering Way is more than just a cabal of necromancers. I see that now. Undeath is their fountain of youth. Uncovering their motivation does not place me at ease as I thought it might. Their desire to be eternal simply makes them dangerous.
Two Months Ago
It is as I have feared. The Way is interested in something here in Ravengro. But what could it be?
One Month Ago
Whatever the Way seeks, I am now concerned that their goal is connected to the Harrowstone. In retrospect, I suppose that it all makes sense - the stories they tell about the ruins are certainly chilling enough. It may be time to investigate the ruins, but with everybody in town already being so worked up about them, I'd rather not let the others know about my curiosity - there's plenty of other folks herebouts who already think that I am a demonologist or witch or something. Ignorant fools.
Twenty Days Ago
It is confirmed. They Way seems quite interested in something - no, strike that - someone who was held in Harrowstone. But who, specifically, is the Way after? I need a list of everyone who died the night of the fire. Everyone. The Temple of Pharasma must have such a list.
Eighteen Days Ago
I see now just how ill prepared I was when I last set out for the Harrowstone. I am lucky to have returned at all. The ghosts, if indeed they were ghosts (for I did not find it prudent to investigate further) prevented me from transcribing the strange symbols I found etched along the foundation - hopefully on my next visit I will be more prepared. Thankfully, the necessary tools to defend against spirits are already here in Ravengro. I know that the church of Pharasma use to store them in a false crypt in the Restlands at the intersection between Eversleep and the Black Path. I am not certain if the current clergy even know of what their predecessors have hidden down below. If my luck holds, I should be able to slip in and out with a few borrowed items.
Seventeen Days Ago
Tomorrow evening I return to the prison. It is imperitive the Way does not finish. My caution has already cost me too much time. I am not sure what will happen if I am too late, but if my theory is right, the entire town could be at risk. I don't have time to update my will, so I'll leave this in the chest where it'll be sure to be found, should the worst come to pass.
Uriah eyes the others as these passages are read.
"I ain't no expert Kendra but it don't sound like any falling statue had anything to do with your father's death. The rest of ya'll reaching the same conclusion?"
Silvui had said words only to himself during the funeral, keeping his thoughts his own. The journey to the professors home was a quite one for silvui, in which he ignored the others and thought silently to himself of his time with the professor and the effects he had had on him and his brothers life.
Upon reaching the home, silvui felt like he should protest to his brother, their task was done, the professor was buried time for them to leave. However the welcoming sight of shelter and hospitality quickly won him over, and he still had a lingering sense of unpaid debt toward his hosts father.
As his brother attempted to lighten the mood Silvui chuckled at a few of the jokes and seemed to relax. He listened calmly to the will not expecting anything for himself.
The mention of money sent his mind racing. With that kind of money, mother could live the way she deserves, we could get together a gang proper and finally break out of this small timer rut.
He nods his head slowly and smiles, all thoughts of departing forgotten. perhaps when all is said and done, one of our pals will travel home alone, and could be persuaded to depart with their earnings... it seems even in death you help us professor.
Silvui looks to kendra My brother and I would be honored to remain in your home.
Andrezi's look is met with a grin and raised eyebrow from Silvui. He is wise enough to keep his vulgar thoughts to himself for the moment, he simply waves his brother on, not wishing to intrude, and not considering for a moment that his brother is just trying to be nice, he is too lost in greedy thoughts to care at the moment anyways.
Arkadi too removes his hat and coat in the comfort of the Lorrimor home, though he makes no move to put aside his armor or sword. He listens calmly as the will is read. "All of us? This many guardians for the Mistress to put her affairs in order seems overprotective. But for what I owe him, I won't begrudge a month."
After the trunk has been brought up and the journal read, his calm demeanor darkens to an angry glower. "Necromancers and murderers! Monsters at least have the excuse that they're fulfilling their nature. For men to willingly seek out undeath and cast aside their humanity is the worst of sins."
He draws himself up and casts his gaze across the group. "My duty is clear. I must investigate whatever dark dealings are underway at Harrowstone, put a stop to the plans of this Whispering Way, and if possible bring justice to those who are responsible for the Professor's death. I can't call you friends yet. What fellowship we have is as those the Professor trusted enough to call here. So I ask in his name, will you stand with me to see through his final request?"
"I've no love of necromancers or murderers. I don't know any of you but if the Professor trusted you then I'll see this through. If'n the ghosts drove the Professor away we need to find this weapons cache first."
Of course the Professor's judgement wasn't always good.
Andrezi jumps at Kendra's prodding to move and grabs the chest. Upon the reading of the Professor's Journal, his anger shows plainly on his face, but he slowly breathes back into calmness. "I will assist you, Arkadi." He replies to the odd worshipper of Iomedae. "I and my brother will see to it that the Professor's death is properly investigated, and that Kendra is cared for." He sits back down in his chair, rubbing the stubble on his face. "A weapons cache does sound useful... but somehow I doubt that the Pharasmins will be overjoyed by us breaking into crypts in their graveyard. Perhaps we should ask their permission? Or at least be... discreet" He looks to his brother as he says this.
Levelle keeps to herself for the first hour, occasionally offering a short answer to a direct question but otherwise spending her time scouring the myriad collections of books throughout the home. The collection was exhaustive and Levelle found herself quite impressed that a single human could have amassed such a large quantity of volumes. Levelle makes a note to herself to ask Kendra about the history of the collection.
Doing her best to focus on the will rather than the books on the shelves, Levelle listens wordlessly about 100 platinum and keeping the lady Kendra safe. The point about the books piques Levelle's interest but she shows little emotion in the face of such news. As some of the other members of the group offer to assist the lady Kendra, Levelle thinks about using her magic to make quick work of he task but decides its better to let the others assist. Like before she remains quiet.
As the passages of the Professor's journal are read aloud Levelle notes the details in her head. She would need to review the journal more carefully to catch any other subtleties but Levelle feels confident that she has the rough picture of events in hand.
As the men seem to foment themselves into a bubbling concern over the ways and means of the late Professor's death Levelle narrows her eyes as one after the other swears a vow or makes some plan of action. As Andrezi offers his perspective Levelle raises her hand to catch the groups attention.
In her off key sing song of a voice she looks at the others, First of all you may very well need not go anywhere, the Professor may have already accomplished the task of gathering tools. You will note that he said he would gather these object then return to Harrowstone. The things you are looking for may very well be among his effects.
Levelle looks at her outfit and realizes there is dirt, stops, waves her hand and with a quick arcane word and scrubs the dirt off. Satisfied with her work Levelle sits back in her chair and steeples her fingers. All a moot point, however as our charge is to protect the lady Kendra and do as she bid, not face off against some ne'er do well cabal of necromancers...unless that is the lady's wish, of course.
The first three of these tomes have notes stuck in them that indicate that they should be delivered to one Montagnie Crowl, a professor of antiquities at Lepidstadt University. The fourth, the Manual of the Order of the Palatine Eye has a note indicating that it should be delivered to Embreth Daramid, and includes the woman's address.
The Remaining Tomes
Manual of the Order of the Palatine Eye
The rich purple cover of this tome contains a brass scarab set with a single eye in its center. The book's overs are rimmed in polished steel and clasped with a small but intricate lock with a triangular shaped keyhole. You note that there is no key that seems to match it in the chest, and when asked, Kendra has no knowledge of such a key existing in the home.
The Esoteric Order of the Palatine Eye is a secret society whose members have deep interests in all things political and arcane.
On Verified Madness
The title of this book bound in jet black leather is embossed into the spine, and save for the note indicating that it should be delivered to Montagnie Crowl, is bereft of any ornamentation.
This text is a treatise on aberrations and other entities found on Golarion that possess remote ties to the Dark Tapestry, the name given to the dark places between the stars in the night sky.
Serving Your Hunger
This tome is a collection of several snippets of texts of various sizes and qualities bound in a plain leather portfolio and secured with leather lacing. The note indicating that it should be delivered to Montagnie Crowl has been tucked under the lace.
This text is a copy of one of several unholy books sacred to the goddess Urgathoa.
The Umbral Leaves
This binding of this book has a particularly queer texture, unlike any leather you have felt before. The title seems to be burned into the leather, almost like a brand.
Common of the unholy book of Zon-Kuthon.
At this time, please state your actions. Note: making Knowledge checks to recognize the titles does not require that you study the books. Please indicate in your posts which books you are identifying as per the title, so I have an idea of who knows what.
Akradi mutters as he glances over the titles, "Madness, death, and the lady of disease. The Professor didn't exaggerate about risking dangerous knowledge."
Turning back to Levelle he replies, "The notes said it was a forgotten storehouse. He may not have taken everything it contained. We should visit it to see if more supplies remain. Even if he took everything, we might learn what it once contained so we can arm ourselves similarly. In fact, retracing all his steps might be wise. We should also visit the Temple to find out more about this Harrowstone place and what fire left it accursed."
Silvui looks over the journal entries himself as the other talk of investigation and necromancers. His joyful mood souring at his brothers words.
He listens to the others speak eyeing his brother then taking a moment to go over the books.
As Arkadi begins speaking to Levelle Silvui moves quickly to his brothers side and pulls him away from the others.
Do you really think this is wise? Why risk our lives on this? The professor never asked us to investigate his death. Mother and Iozef are relying on us, we should let the others take care of this, its not our fight.
Silvui eyes the others darkly and turns back to his brother, dont be a fool he says with a degree of urgency.
"A fool? The Professor's the only man who gave us gainful employment Silvui. We owe him. The man practically fed our family from his own pocket for weeks." Andrezi is quite angry, and as usual is having trouble not showing it. "Shall we just let him rot, his death unavenged? He might as well have been family brother. I'd just as soon leave your murder uninvestigated."
Taking 10 grants Davor knowledge of Serving Your Hunger & The Umbral Leaves
"Hmm, Yes, it is diffidently fate that brought me here. According to the Professor's notes, if his theory is right, then all of Ravengro, including Kendra and her house here, are in trouble. The Professor has staked his entire life and a fortune on this, and died doing it. I am getting a feeling that things transpiring around here are far more sinister and far more serious than we could imagine."
Silvui recoils as if struck by his brothers words. You feel that strongly about him?
he shakes his head rubbing his fingers across his closed eyes letting them linger there for a moment.
You have always treasured our time with him, i respected him too... but we have a duty to survive, this tomb robbing, necromancer confronting, idiotic act you propose would put us in uneeded danger.
Silvui's voice grows more strained, he desperatly trys to force himself to remain calm.
(
As the tomes are passed around Levelle becomes distracted from her previous point. Her fingers passing over The Umbral Leaves and Serving Your Hunger her eyes get a glassy look. These are, unknown to me...for now.
Pulling her eyes to the other books Levelle passes over On verified Madness with a kind of dismissive gesture, Dark things from beyond, ghastly reading... Levelle's eyes focus intently on The Manual of the Order of the Palantine Eye. This is rare, exceptionally so...Retrieving the key to this book is of the utmost importance. She sighs out the words almost reverently, her head ticks to the side slightly and she stands up ramrod straight, After all other more pressing matters are dealt with.
Levelle makes a point to return to her investigation of the other books in the room, interested to see what other items may be on the shelves. Never taking her off of the books she says out loud in a brisk tone, Perhaps I am a creature of some ritual but until the lady Kendra indicates she wants me to spend my time away from her side on some task of investigation or the purging of evil, I shall not contemplate it. You all scurry about with intentions with the poor woman watches us paw through her father's items.
Levelle turns sharply and takes in the room. Ms. Lorrimor I must insist, charge us as you will and I will set my intellect to the task, but I will not set foot out of this house or anywhere near Harrowstone without you express desire we do so. Your father asked I do as you request, I assume it was to some purpose. What would you have me do?
"Well I've no notion to be scurrying anywhere but it would seem taking out those who want her dead afore they come lookin' here is a better plan than hunkering in. Being proactive my da called it."
Such a strange group the Professor gathers to him. Wonder where the other layabouts went after his funeral?
Uriah has burrowed his way into the most overstuffed chair possible during the wait for the solicitor and hasn't moved much since.
Such comforts are rare in my life, best take advantage while I can.
Kendra has been sitting quietly while you all discuss your zeal for investigating her father's death, and possibly avenging it as well. Her father's journal sits open on her lap, which she snaps closed and places her hands upon, as if clinging to his memory.
"Ravengro is my home," she answers, "and has been for fifteen years. Until today, I could not have said why my father chose to stay here when so many were cruel to him in ignorance. To... read his words..." Kendra appears to struggle, conflicted. "He chose each of you as his benefactors. This could not have been cooincidence. The mention of the Whispering way... You are correct, there is great evil here, and it were always my father's way to stand against it. You would honor him by continuing his work.
"For myself... I do not believe that I am in any danger. Besides, there is so much to do in this house, sorting these books," she looks about her. "Oh, the books! They... they were great references for my father's studies. I am certain that they may provide information for you as well."
Levelle bows to Kendra. As you wish it, we shall put our efforts to the task. Levelle casts he whiteless eyes to the Denikov's as she makes the comment, an almost imperceptible shrug passing over her shoulders.
Turning back to Kendra, I wonder, if you might allow it, can we look through the Professor's personal effects such as what was on him when he was found?
"And what of the other things in the Prison brother?" Andrezi whispers, trying a different tact. "Think on it... sure the Professor gives us a payout, but that will only pay so much. Think about how much we could make if we found something magical in there. No one goes near it because it's haunted, and so it's been abandoned." The taller brother's roguish grin makes a triumphant return. "And what of the girls who will be eager to throw themselves at the men who destroyed the Haunts of Harrowstone?"
Turning back to Kendra, I wonder, if you might allow it, can we look through the Professor's personal effects such as what was on him when he was found?
"There were not many. His pack was found a ways from his body. He had some climbing equipment, sunrods, and a few utility scrolls of spider climb, and feather fall," Kendra shakes her head. "His bonded item is inert now. Whether or not there was more, I have no idea."
Arkadi leaves the brothers to resolve matters between themselves, for the moment, and addresses the other two. "I'm thankful for your willing aid, Mister Hays. Yours too, Miss Mahe, as I'm no position to debate motives when the need for action presses." Turning to Kendra he says, "It's likely they do. But these tome cover wide topics. Until we know what we're looking for they may not be of much use. Unless, perhaps, the Professor was in a habit of making notations..."
Quickly he passes On Verified Madness to Levelle, The Umbral Leaves to Davor, and claims Serving Your Hunger for himself. "Look through these with me for any sign of what the Professor was researching in them. A bookmark, a dogear, a coffee stain, anything that shows where he was reading."
Levelle takes in Kendra's words and nods, taking on the book that Arkadi has indicated in her off hand. That is too bad, I had hoped we would be lucky and he would have items of interest on him, however, if his end was not natural... Levelle leaves the thought unfinished.
Turning to Arkadi Levelle gestures to the book with her free hand, I will look it over with the utmost accuracy.
Serving Your Hunger has copious amounts underlining, and notes jotted in the margins in the Professor's hand.
[ooc]If you wish to explore these notes further, you may make a Knowledge Religion Check DC 25.
Levelle Mahe Will Saving Throw
Levelle Mahe Wisdom Check
While you page through On Verified Madness you get the distinct impression that you are being observed, as you continue paging through it, this feeling grows even more unsettling. You begin to wonder if perhaps it is mundane, if one of your companions is looking over your shoulder, but when you look that is not the case. Arkadi sits near you, studying his own text...
Levelle fidgets for a moment in her seat, unnerved from checking over her text. Looking about the room to see who was watching her she sees everyone engrossed in their own conversations or tasks. A sneer breaks across Levelle's face and she pushes the book from her. Stupid child, you are likely to be killed for acting so hastily!
Staring at the book for a moment, a look of flat irritation on her face, Levelle reaches for the tome and pulls it back to her. Novice, the procedure for such things is always the same, do not let circumstances overwhelm your training!
Levelle Wisdom
When you push the book away from you, your mind clears, as though a fog has been lifted. It stands to reason that a tome dedicated to the study of the Dark Ones who Reside Beyond the Void may have some manner of power to it that calls persons to study it...
Your Detect Magic spell reveals that there is indeed an aura of enchantment surrounding the book, a faint compulsion, as per the spell . You feel relieved that you did not read the book.
The remaining tomes (()) are not magical.
Levelle will turn to Arkadi and gesture at On Verified Madness. Would that I have thought more clearly before opening the book, this tome is magical and wills the reader to explore further. My academic interest overrode my reason. This tome should not be read, it will lead only to darkness. I certainly hope this Montagnie Crowl is of better facuty or knowledge then I and will keep this book far away from prying eyes.
Arkadi grimaces at Levelle's words. "Even books are tainted now? By Iomedae's blade, there's no end to the curses that cling to this land. Please check the other books. This one at least is covered in notations that I hope to make sense of, but only if it is safe for my mind and soul."
Arkadi grimaces at Levelle's words. "Even books are tainted now? By Iomedae's blade, there's no end to the curses that cling to this land. Please check the other books. This one at least is covered in notations that I hope to make sense of, but only if it is safe for my mind and soul."
None of the others give off an aura of magical enchantment like the tome before me. As to the contents...well... Levelle shrugs ever so slightly and a slight smirk plays across her face. I can make no promise as to how your soul will fare against that