Davos placing his book down when the others enters the house
"Good evening Markus, well I had an ok day kept myself busy making copies of the local newspaper"
Davos looks over to Olav play with his cup and ball
"Well guess you had quite an entertaining day then, you still doing the show in the inn this evening?"
Upon completing his meditation Sebastian stands and runs through a series of stretches. "Ahh, that is better."He says with satisfaction.
Realising that there are others in the room he says "Good evening. Did you all have productive days?"
He listens with interest as the others tell their tales, smiling when Markus recalls his teaching experience thinking A task that is tougher than would first seem, no doubt; then frowning at the tale of the blood soaked statue. Most disturbing.
He tells them of his day with Ikkaku. "We went to the bakery to help build a new oven. Unfortunately, it was not producing enough heat so we are returning tomorrow to finish the job properly. Would anyone care to join us?"
He then turns to Ikkaku. "Do you want to tell of our chance meeting with the little girl in the square, or shall I?"
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"tell them what you will, but I do not wish to relive it and do not desire the funny looks and comments I am sure to receive in its telling. I'm going outside, do not worry sebastian I will not venture off the grounds you have my word, I just wish to be alone for a moment I can't think will all this noise"
Olav carries on trying to get the ball in the cup
One..two..three... Ahhh!!! What did you say ahh yes sorry they are still investigating at the statue if you want to join them seems like it would be boring to me but you may get a kick out of it I think Kendra with them or doing some shopping in town who knows as long as she's back and ready for the amazing show tonight.. Which reminds me
Olav jumps out of his set and thrusts the ball and cup into Davos hands
Here you have a go i am going to try on my new clothes
He quick ascends the stairs new clothes in hand
Sebastian nods when he hears the warrior's words. he turns to the others and says sadly: "We saw the daughter of the man that was killed yesterday. She was terribly sad as you can imagine. We both tried to comfort her, but to no avail. It was awful." He ponders for a minute then says "Our companion may be a man of few words, but he did open up today. I begin to understand him a little more. I tell you, when he saw that girl he shed a single tear. Knowing what I know of him, that was a show of remorse more profound than a thousand tears."
He speaks to Markus. "Have you plans tomorrow? We could use your wisdom with that oven. You seem like a practical man, perhaps you could identify where we went wrong today? I intend to donate whatever payment we get to the family of the deceased. I suggest we all do the same if we get paid for any jobs we take."
Jon waits for Cara to finish examining the pig before they set off back towards Gibs shack.
I don't know how cooperative Gibs will be, especially with me. We had another run in yesterday on my way out of town, don't be surprised if he slams the door in our face
When they get to the shack, Jon walks up to the amshackle dwelling and knocks on the rough wooden door.
Olav descends the stairs a couple of minutes later in his new outfit
This bright yellow and red outfit is flashy and clearly meant for entertaining. Yet somehow still flattering. While the outfit looks whimsical,you can tell its practical design does nothing to inhibit Olavs ability to tumble, dance, walk a tightrope, or run (if the audience turns ugly).
What do you think guys?
Olav slumps into a chair and puts his feet up
I hope caradwen isn't long she still has to get ready for the show
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After several moments there is no answer. Then, just as Jon raises his hand to knock again, the rickety door swings open.
Gibs stands there, in dirty underclothes and bleary-eyed. His slab of a belly over-hangs the waistband of his shorts and he squints even aginst the dull light of the afternoon.
You. His eyes narrow when he makes out it's Jon at his door. You've got some nerve coming here. What the hell do you want?
"I'm glad to hear your both doing some good around here." He smiles to Davos and Sebastian then as Ikkaku starts to talk Markus starts to chop up the last of the ingredients louder and does not pay attention to the man as he leaves.
"You think that man shows remorse? maybe because he was confronted with the fruits of his actions. Bully's and murderers are not forgiven easily." Markus closes his eye's I cannot forgive so quickly, this man could be confronted again and kill. "That was also my plan, the man's family has no one to look after them now, we should get a donation together something at least to keep them going in these hard times. We should also go see his widow i'm not sure if it's wise you take him." He nods to the door where Ikkaku went. "I'm not sure what my plans are tomorrow another job maybe, if he's with you i'm sorry but i don't think i can accompany you." He then looks down alittle disappointed and awkward at the point he was making.
Markus then starts to get plates down and ready to server tonights food as Olav walks in. "You sure look the part.."
Jon looks the man over and he can recognise the signs of a drinker, after all he's been there many times himself.
Jon spreads his hands wide in a pacifying gesture.
we don't want any trouble Gibs, were here on behalf of the sheriff. Official business if you like. The memorial overlooking the river has been vandalised, a pig was gutted and its blood spread all over the place . We were wondering if you saw or heard anything?
Davos catches the toy looks it over and places it down on the table, shouting to Markus in the kitchen
"You need a hand in there Markus?"
Davos watches Olav run down the stairs and jumping in the chair
"Well that's certainly a bright outfit to dazzle the crowd with"
Caradwen listens to Jon as they travel towards Gibs shack - "Very well Jon, we'll try to smooth things over as much as we can, but I must admit I do not know what has passed before between you or any of the others and Gibs..."
As they arrive, and in spite of the potential bad blood, the woman allows Jon to go first - Perhaps, in spite of everything, a familiar face makes things somewhat more acceptable..."
"I don't believe we have met before sir - I am Caradwen - the sheriff has been kind enough to allow our participation in this short and simple investigation - the monument back there is important to Ravengro as far as we understood, and having it defiled in such a way is not acceptable at all. I'm believing everyone would be satisfied if the responsible ones would be confronted - who knows how many rounds such a story may earn someone at the Inn..?" - she smiles.
Sebastian shakes his head sadly. "that is unfortunate." he turns to Place. "Iak mindful of the fact that we have not yet had a chance to speak much. Where do you hail from brother?"
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Tales at the inn, memorial? What are you talking about?
He rubs his temple and, rather comically, noticeably holds in his belly when Cara addresses him.
She explains the situation at the statue and he replies;
Listen, I didn't see anyone going past last night I was... he tries to subtly move a bottle to one side with his foot. .. Working all night
Give explains he came home after the funeral in a foul temper. He spent the afternoon walking where he bumped into Jon, Who threatened my life incidentally sheriff. After that he had work up on the Longbottom farm. After that he remained home for the rest of the night.
Several hours have passed since you first arrived at the statue. The sheriff, satisfied he has collected as much evidence as he reasonably can, sets off to Jomindas with Kendra. He orders two of his deputies to clean up the mess.
"No i'm nearly done Davos thanks for the offer." Markus looks at the food, trying to not see the sadness in Sebastians face at his answer.
"I hope they get home soon, we'll have food then head off for Olav's performance, it should be interesting."
Soon after everyone returns Olav grows impatient and can not wait to leave he tries hurrying everyone along to get ready but first they must eat food he wolfed his down as fast as possible but during the hours it takes the others to eat and get ready he puts the finishing touches to his performance, as the approach the inn his excitement slowly starts to turn to nerves Wish I hadn't eaten so fast and for the first time in the last two days he remains quiet. As the arrive at the outward inn Olav reports to the manager to say he's here for the night performance as he walks through the bar he gets some funny looks and snigger from the locals. After a quick pint he takes to the stage to warm up the audience for caradwens performance
Hello ladies and gentlemen then names Olav and I shall be the opening act of tonight performance
Olav stands still for a moment as if frozen centre stage then reaches into his pockets and pulls out three balls and begins to juggle them as he does he looks out at the audience
Once i approached a lovely young lady at the bar, "May I buy you a drink?" I asked her
She replied, "No, thank you. Alcohol is bad for my legs."
So I replied, "Oh. I'm sorry to hear that. Do they swell?"
She said, "No, they open!"
Instantly at the punch line of the joke Olav seems to tumble backwards in to a summersault and jumps back onto his feet he tries to catch the juggling ball but they all hit him on the head one after another he then rubs his head comically and looks out to the crowd .
So ladies and gentle I have travelled a long way to be here tonight, be nice to get to know some of you, so sir where are you from? Have we met? I never forget a face, but in your case I think I'd make an exception
Olav smiles a big grin and rolls to the other side of the stage
Ahh good thing we are in an inn tonight, I've started this new thing called the whiskey diet. I've lost three days already... When do you kick a halfling in the balls? When he is standing next to your wife saying her hair smells nice Olavs goes on for a while telling various one liner jokes. Then it comes to the end of his set
Well thanks you ladies and gents you have been a great audience I shall be accepting drinks at the bar later, but up next a fantastic performer and good friend of mine caradwen!! Olavs takes a bow walks of the stage and goes to sit next to the others
Jon shakes his head as gibs accuses him of threatening his miserable life.
well thanks Gibs, it's been a pleasure as always.
Jon turns and leaves him standing in his doorway.
I knew we would not get much help there cara. I am going to visit jomindas before I go back to the house there are a couple of things I wish to buy
Jon shakes his head as gibs accuses him of threatening his miserable life.
well thanks Gibs, it's been a pleasure as always.
Jon turns and leaves him standing in his doorway.
I knew we would not get much help there cara. I am going to visit jomindas before I go back to the house there are a couple of things I wish to buy
"Maybe he in fact knows nothing Jon - we always have to consider that possibility, but he definitely is not particularly cooperative... I will head on to the house, Olav is probably waiting for me"
Soon after everyone returns Olav grows impatient and can not wait to leave he tries hurrying everyone along to get ready but first they must eat food he wolfed his down as fast as possible but during the hours it takes the others to eat and get ready he puts the finishing touches to his performance, as the approach the inn his excitement slowly starts to turn to nerves Wish I hadn't eaten so fast and for the first time in the last two days he remains quiet. As the arrive at the outward inn Olav reports to the manager to say he's here for the night performance as he walks through the bar he gets some funny looks and snigger from the locals. After a quick pint he takes to the stage to warm up the audience for caradwens performance
Hello ladies and gentlemen then names Olav and I shall be the opening act of tonight performance
Olav stands still for a moment as if frozen centre stage then reaches into his pockets and pulls out three balls and begins to juggle them as he does he looks out at the audience
Once i approached a lovely young lady at the bar, "May I buy you a drink?" I asked her
She replied, "No, thank you. Alcohol is bad for my legs."
So I replied, "Oh. I'm sorry to hear that. Do they swell?"
She said, "No, they open!"
Instantly at the punch line of the joke Olav seems to tumble backwards in to a summersault and jumps back onto his feet he tries to catch the juggling ball but they all hit him on the head one after another he then rubs his head comically and looks out to the crowd .
So ladies and gentle I have travelled a long way to be here tonight, be nice to get to know some of you, so sir where are you from? Have we met? I never forget a face, but in your case I think I'd make an exception
Olav smiles a big grin and rolls to the other side of the stage
Ahh good thing we are in an inn tonight, I've started this new thing called the whiskey diet. I've lost three days already... When do you kick a halfling in the balls? When he is standing next to...
Noticing Olavs' excitement, Caradwen smiles and addresses him - "I have not prepared anything for tonight my friend - I will have to go with improvisation" - she reaches for her backpack and produces an odd looking drum of sorts and taps it for good measure, adding with a smile - "Lets see if we can get this town shaken out of its torpor"
Before leaving she inquires if it would be possible that Kendra would borrow her a slightly more revealing outfit - "There are too many strange things going on around here. People need to take their minds of this whole gloom - I will try and help with that tonight" - she winks.
At the inn, after Olavs' introduction, Caradwen slides up the stage without a word, and stands there until silence drops in the room, and the attention is focused on her - it is not something she adverts, but her woman figure is definitely alluring as she sits down with only that unusual drum on her lap.
Unexpectadly, as the whispers start growing back up in the room, she begins jamming like there is no tomorrow, her hands transmitting an amazing rythm to the instrument, one she hopes will contaminate the audience with its energy.
Jon leaves gibs behind, the man was obviously drunk during the whole event and wouldn't have noticed anything. Finding the sheriff Jon gives him the bad news that gibs can be no more help.
if you need anything else sheriff or if you manage to get to the bottom of this I'd be interested to know what it was all about. Anything g you need you know where I am.
Later that day..... Jon finally gets back to the house, his head clearing after taking the alchemical hangover cure. he is beginning to feel almost human again.
Walking into the house Jon can hear the others talking. As he passes through the hallway and into the study he passes one of the many piles of paper that the professor left lying around. Although he passes the pile of papers by a good foot or so the pile suddenly tips over, the sheets scattering everywhere and a faint evil cackle seems to come from somewhere behind Jon.
damn it all! Jon curses sorry, ill pick them up now. How was everyone's day? Get much done? he asked hastily as he stoops and busily collects the papers hoping no one noticed he did not cause them to fall.
Olav you are looking , ah ... well different. Are you ready for tonight, this town may be a tough crowd
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Kendra arrives back at the house an hour or so after the others, the sheriff kindly offering to walk her back. She bids him goodnight and enters the house to the welcome smell of cooking.
Mmmm... something smells good!
She greets you all and asks politely about everyone's day, listening intently whilst removing her coat and unpinning her hair.
Awful business at the memorial today. She relays the scene for anyone still uninformed. some kind of graffiti, a gang affiliation, religious symbol... Benjen is speculating about all of them at the moment and Jominda is confirming the blood was that of the pig. awful business. she says again.
The group eats their meal together, awkwardly cramming around the dining table but made easier by Olav scoffing his share and excusing himself hurriedly.
If Olav dreamed that the Outward Inn's open stage night would involve hordes of screaming fans and become his springboard to fame and fortune, he is sorely mistaken.
About two dozen townsfolk sit at tables throughout the tavern, conversing among themselves, throwing dice, eating meals. They are paying little attention to the singer on stage. a shame as it the same one from yesterday with the rich voice, clearly talented and interestingly you now recognise him as one of the deputies.
A few cast sideways glances at Olav's flamboyant yellow and red outfit, one commenting that The kid must be doing rooster impression.
A warm fire burn merrily in the large place in the east wall. You notice the big, shaggy dog, Old River, lounging beside it, occasionally getting up to pad from table to table looking for scraps. He spots Jon with his one good eye and comes loping over. He nudges the oracle's hand with his nose and looks up with a doggy smile. You got a treat for Old River? that look seems to say.
Kendra orders a round of drinks for everyone, careful to remember fruit juice for Sebastian and Jon and a clear spirit called vodka for Ikkaku. It was as close as they had to the rice wine he described.
This should be good! Cara looks amazing, she suits that dress far better than I did, but who knows what they'll make of Olav!
Any fears about the performance are soon allayed. Olav's outfit only seems to add to his routine and he earns more than a few good-natured belly laughs. The man who made the rooster jape claps him on the back as he leaves the stage.
Funniest thing I seen since Earnie Reynolds fell in that slurry pit! Drink?
Cara takes to the stage with her drum. A hushed silence descends. It is broken by her rapid syncopated rhythm, like the rumble of thunder in a storm. Her energy and emotion pour into her performance and after it is done, when the last beat sounds around the tavern, it is met by a wall of stunned silence.
Sariana Vai, behind the bar, a mug overflowing as it sits under a running beertap stands open-mouthed. She starts to clap, softly at first and then it is taken up by the others until the two dozen patrons sound like two hundred.
the combination of the apothecaries hangover powder and the hearty meal he has eaten makes Jon feel better than he has for days.
As Olav rushes off Jon smiles to himself I had better attend his performance or the youngster will be crushed. You can be strong Jon boy! you don't need the drink, remember what the professor taught you
Later at the tavern.....
gods this is harder than I thought Jon thinks to himself, the familiar smells of lamp oil, tobacco, woodsmoke and beer are almost intoxicating . As he sits there he struggles with his fruit juice, his glass may as well be full of ash.
Suddenly his new friend comes to his aid once more. Jon smiles as old river pads over to him good boy! How's it going big fella? Jon asked as he roughes up the old dogs fur scratching him behind his good ear.
reaching into his pocket Jon smiles as he gives him a handful of jerky and sees it swiftly devoured. good boy
Jon relaxes a little as Olav takes the stage, he even laughes at several of the youngsters jokes. As he finishes his set Jon congratulates him.
well done Olav, I am not often surprised. You were damn good. I don't know how you will follow that Cara Jon says turning toward her she does scrub up well! Who'd have thought it? then again, with that dress and your dazzling smile you've got more than enough to wow these simple folks. You look stunning Cara , go get em!
Jon applauds loudly as Cara finishes her performance. Glancing over at Ikkaku the foreigner seems to appreciate her drumming, even recognise it.
Getting up Jon moves over to sit beside the warrior.
she's good isn't she? I be never heard anything like that. Jon says
I haven't had a chance to speak with him properly, I think he feels a bit alone. I can identify with that
how are you faring Maderame?can I call you by your first name? It must be difficult, these small towns they will always back their own against an outsider even if their own aren't whiter than white. I know what it's like to be stared at and feared . Trust me I know. But give it time , it will get better .
Olav gladly excepts the mans drink offer
Half a pint of ale please
Olav sits down with the others to watch caradwens performance
She does put an amazing show ill give her that, this is a night these locals won't forget in sometime.
Some of the others look at his half pint
Ahh yes I don't drink that much see, if I get drunk I can become a bit hyper and annoying and we wouldn't want that would we
He says with a big grin on his face
I think I'm going to sit with some of the locals for a bit
He walks over to a group of the locals
thanks for the drink matey, enjoy the show did you all? Hopefully I’ve got a book coming out soon. Shouldn’t have eaten it, really....
He continues sitting and talking to the locals for some time telling jokes and general chatting but at the same time trying to gather information on the town
Markus looks around as the new bunch of people he met only yesterday sit down to watch a show at the local inn, taking in the local sights and local wit. "This is an interesting inn, i've always found on my travels you can get a real feel for a community if you spend a night at the local inn and normally make a few friends." He laughs as he takes a drink, Then quiets down as Olav walks on the stage. He cracks a smile at Olav's performance caught up with the crowed. "He sure plays the clown superbly."
Then when Olav joins up with the group. "Brilliant work Olav, the way to a people's heart is through their funny bone. You've got them right where you want them." He is falls to silences again as Cara walks onto stage, tell Kendra speaks of the outfit. "That's one of your outfits? you could make anything look good Kendra." He says and then quickly takes another drink.
Silence then takes the room, as a performance not normally heard in an inn like this blows people away. "She plays marvelously, that gave me goosebumps." Then after the performance is finished he stands up and claps.
"Delicious food Markus anything special in this?."
After eating the food Markus has prepared. Davos heads upstairs and has a wash before heading out.
Davos enters the inn with the other and spots the locals playing cards
Think ill join them later on for a game and see if they heard any news about this status issue to help the others out"
Taking a seat and tanking Kendra for the drink, Davos sits back and enjoys the show
"Excellent Olav and Cara good show"
Pouring out some more wine for himself Davos turns to Sebastian
"I was meaning to ask, what was that exercise you was doing back at the house?".
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The man takes Olav to the bar and gets him his drink.
Aye... that was good lad, and I needed a laugh too after yesterday. the man says.
Oh... here we go again.... one of his friends groans.
It's bloody true! he takes a long swallow of his ale and orders another. They say now and then, if you visit Harrowstone near sundown, you can hear the ghost of the warden's wife wailing and sobbing from somewhere within the ruins. he leans closer to Olav, so that he is within inches, his voice becoming hoarse and desperate. She haunts the prison now, mourning her husband and frightening away anyone who dares intrude. His eyes wild and wide. And I'll be damned if I didn't hear it myself!
He holds his breath at the end of his desperate tale, his hand clamped on Olav's shoulder, so tight his knuckles are white.....
Sarianna cries as she slams down his ale making both he and Olav jump. Next you'll be spinning a yarn about the man in the moon!
The rest of you join in the laughter at her joke but notice several of the patrons do so nervously and without much feeling.
Thank you for the compliment Markus, well intentioned but wide of the mark I fear. This past three months I feel like I've been pulled through a hedge backwards!
Thank you for tonight, I felt like i needed it!
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"worry not i was merely practicing"
He says with a rye smile, he then sit down at the table with everyone else and eats in silence.
@Kendra
she passes him the clear liquid, Ikkaku bows and smiles..
"Arigatō Kendra-chan"
he smells it and shrugs he then holds it up toward Kendra..
"Kanpai"
then downs the small measure in one,
his cheeks almost immediately turn red he smiles again then beckons the waitress for another.
@jon
"Jon Moulton-san"
he turns and smiles
"you may indeed call me by my first name which is not Maderame, that is my family name my first name is Ikkaku and yes she is magnificent, it sounds allot like the drummers from home, the rhythm and ferocity. I appreciate your words but one thing i am more than used to is being treated as a lesser life form. its..this Tsumi...sorry how do you say...guilt it eats away at me, gnawing like a rat trapped in a hot pale. i have never felt like this before, at the time i was convinced my actions were just, that i did my duty and it was merely unfortunate that the man died.....after seeing her....i just....i feel this will haunt me, something you look like you can relate to Jon Moulton-san, tell me a bit about yourself"
he says as he downs his third vodka
Sweat running all down her face and neck, Caradwen comes down to the table where her companions are sitting - "Well, we shook up the room and got a smile on these peoples' faces for a change huh Olav?"
Turning around, she heads over and sits at the bar, smiling at Sariana Vai - "So... How did I do? And any chance for a drink?
Sebastian sits at the table in the bar and listens quietly to both performances. I'd rather be practicing my form, but it is important we integrate with the townfolk after yesterday. Perhaps this will help....
He hardly touches his fruit juice and when Ikkaku orders another drink, he asks for a pitcher of water and a cup. As Davos moves alongside him, he smiles and nods his greeting. When asked about his meditation he replies, "It is a technique I learned at the Monastery. Meditation is a fundamental part of our training, it helps centre one's self - ensuring the body and mind are in perfect harmony. 'Mindfulness' or sati in the language of my people, plays a central role in the teaching of meditation where it is affirmed that correct or right mindfulness (sammā-sati) is the critical factor in the path to liberation and subsequent enlightenment."
"Sampajanna is another word for mindfulness, it is described as a calm awareness of one's body functions, feelings, content of consciousness, or consciousness itself. Mindfulness is the seventh element of the Noble Eightfold Path, the practice of which supports analysis resulting in the development of wisdom."
He continues, "It also helps hone one's senses and awareness. I have heard tell of adepts developing a kind of sixth sense as a result. I find clearing my mind refreshing and it helps aid one's concentration. There is a simple trick that you begin meditating with to help clear the mind, which I can show you if you like..." He is cut off mid sentence by Cara's performance. He sits contemplating the rythms and layering of the drum work. Exquisite! When she has finished and the room has shown his appreciation, he turns back to Davos. "What of you my Elven brother. Would you share your knowledge and experiences with a relative stranger such as I? I am interested to hear where you come from and how you came to know the Professor."
Markus enjoys his time out, speaking with each of the new people he'll be spending time with for the rest of the month. It shouldn't be to bad this month I've spent time with more annoying people that have tested my faith, Kendra makes it a lot easier. but as the hour gets late Markus stands up to excuse himself. "I must excuse myself, my bed is calling me and I've learnt listen." He smiles. "I'll see you all back in the house later.
After spending some time discussing past experiences with Davos, Sebastian rises and stretches. He speaks to Ikkaku, "I grow weary of this place and have a longing to see that blood stained monument for myself. As your appointed chaperone, I should ask if you would like to join me. Perhaps some fresh air will do us good."
He dons his coat as he waits for the warrior's response.
Guilt is like a cancer, it will grow and eat you up from the inside. The professor taught me that you have to accept the guilt, let it in, learn from it and then get rid of it or it will destroy you. Jon says as he stares into space remembering the man
there isn't much learn about me ikkaku, I come from a small village near Magnimar. Not too different to this.my father was an inquisitor for the church of iomaedae. He owned a small holding, a couple of dozen acres of land. We bred horses mostly. Jon pauses as if he is not sure how to proceed but for some reason he feels the urge to tell this strange warrior about his own pain.
you said I can relate to your guilt? That I seem haunted? You don't know the half of it my foreign friend. I was younger than Olav is now, my father was often away on church business and as the eldest I was responsible for the farm and the family.
My whole family burned to death whilst I was supposed to be looking after them, my twin sisters were only eight, my mother and my infant brother..... he trails off as he finds it hard to talk the house caught fire whilst I slept, their screams woke me. Gods that sound will be with me forever, there was nothing I could do, outside my room was just a wall of fire. I couldn't get to my family, the heat drove me back and I had no choice, I jumped from my window to the barn below. Hoping to gain entry into the house from below. I fell through the roof, breaking my leg and I lay in agony and I could do nothing except listen to their shrieks of agony as the fire consumed them.
After that my world collapsed, my father died the same night attending to his mysterious church business and though my leg mended my mind hadn't , it was still broken. i crawled inside a bottle of whiskey and didn't come back out, everyone I knew turned their back on me, even my fiancé. a sad whist full look crosses jons face the professor stumbled upon me by chance and he saved me, gave me back my sanity and showed me that the fire was not my fault.
The guilt I felt didn't lessen but I became able to accept it and let it go before it destroyed me
Jon takes a deep breath and reaching for his glass ikkaku can see his hands shake badly as he takes a drink of the orange juice.
I am sorry ikkaku, I haven't spoken of that for many years , once I started I couldn't stop.there is more but I don't go into it tonight.
What about you? What is your story?
Olav smiles at the man as he tells the story
That's a good one friends, perhaps one night I will tell you the one of the grumkins and snarks that's steal your socks when you are sleeping
He laughs to himself
Thanks lads its been a most entertaining evening perhaps ill catch you another night
He then returns to sit with the group
How's it going guys? Enjoying your nights? Some of the locals are full of interesting tales of the prison on its ghooooostly in habitants, won't tell you all now though Davos may not sleep tonight
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Sebastian, there will be nothing left to see when you get there. Benjen was making arrangements to have it all cleaned off as we were leaving. Kendra says. She gives Sebastian a full and frank description of the scene however and continues; I was planning on going back to Jominda’s in the morning and I believe you still need to see Benjen at the Jail – perhaps you can ask him about it then.
The evening winds down to it’s natural conclusion. Several of the locals stagger out under their own power, others half carry eachother out. Old River looks somewhat mournfully at the dying fire and pads to the door, sniffing the air outside once or twice before trotting off in the direction of the town square.
There are few patrons remaining and Sarianna is beginning to clean up with Jon tells his story.
My god. Kendra says, That’s awful. I don’t know how you survived. Not the fall or the fire, but the time afterwards. These past three months have been the longest and hardest of my life and some days I felt like it wasn’t worth getting up in the morning – I’d only wander through the library and see my father wasn’t there, make breakfast in the kitchen and realise Father wasn’t there to join me, sit in the garden and think about how Father wasn’t going to ask me how my day had been. Not ever again. she touches Jon’s hand. I know you’ve had problems, Jon, but you must be stronger than you think to have got through all of that.
She sighs and stands.
Well, I don’t know about you but I’m just about ready to drop! Sarianna is closing up in a moment anyway, anyone care to escort me back?
She says her farewells to Sarianna and steps out into the night.
The group makes its way back through the cold, misty streets and Kendra pulls her coat tighter against the cold. Somewhere in the night a fox calls in that awful screaming fashion they have, so human in it’s anguish and Kendra instinctively hurries her steps.
Once back at home she puts a pot of tea on for anyone who is interested or those who decide not to head back immediately and bids everyone good night.
Some of you stay up for a while, Cara cleaning off the sweat of her performance, Markus and Sebastian conversing in the darkness for a few minutes as they share the sitting room – watching the last dying embers of the fire barely illuminate the room with a pale orange glow.
Eventually, you each drift off to sleep....
THUDD…THUDD…THUDD!!
There is a loud, almost urgent knock on the door. More than a knock, a thump.
Sebastian and Markus, resting fitfully in the ground floor sitting room, are awoken by the sound. They, like Davos upstairs, have no need for sleep but their meditative state is jarred by the sudden noise.
They also hear a stirring from upstairs as Kendra wakes and pulls herself out of bed.
Jon smiles at kendra and places his hand atop hers.
if it wasn't for your father I know I would not have survived. When I heard the news of his passing I admit it hit me bad and I fell off the wagon big time.
You are the strong one kendra you have had no one to support you it seems and you have carried on regardless, I admire you for that.
I visited your fathers grave again after the funeral and I made a vow to him once more, I will not drink again! Protecting you and the debt I owe your father is too important to me, I will not let that demon claim me again.
I am ready to return also, I will walk with you. Jon says as he rises and gets their coats
Markus get's up and checking the clock above the fireplace. Who could this be? it's so late. He then looks to Sebastiane "Let's go check it out hopefully it's just kids messing about no need to wake the others up." Markus then makes his way to the door waiting on Sebastian to join him before he goes to check whos at the door.
Sebastian is up and moving in an instant. As soon as the firth thud sounds he is in motion; by the time the second sounds he is at the door to the hallway, whipering to Markus in a commanding tone, "Cover the hallway, I'll check the door."
He moves silently out of the room into the hallway and by the time the third thud sounds he is standing behind the front door, listening intently. He stands in a seemingly relaxed pose, head slightly inclined towards the door but his senses are focused to a fine edge; every fibre of his being coiled like a spring.
Stealth
Perception
He waits for a minute as Markus moves into the hallway then calls out "Who is there? What do you want at this late hour?"
Markus moves to the hallway, He then crouches down copying Sebastian, and whispers ahead.
"I'm sure not all this is needed"
Then seeing how stupid all this is stands up again, and walks past Sebastian and towards the door and opens it. "Hello?"
"Well that does seem quite a technique you've mastered there. I met the professor at the college of wizards in New Stetven which is my home town, he was attending as a guest speaker and giving us lectures on various topics.
I was a slow leaner to often id spent my nights in the library one evening the professor came in and we sat down and started talking about the arcane arts. For the time he was there he would join me in the library and help
me and before I knew it I was able to master the arcane arts."
Davos takes another drink from his cup
"Professor made me who I am today".
"Ghosts? Superstitious locals no doubt."
Upon hearing the noise Davos wakes up grabbing his robe, quietly steps into the hallway and heads for the staris
Markus and Sebastian are downstairs, no need to disturb jon
|
|
Markus moves past Sebastian, shaking his head at the monk’s paranoia.
…it’s just kids messing about, no need to wake the others.
He pulls the heavy oak door open; Hello?
A dark figure stands in the doorway, dripping from the pounding rain.
He is wearing a heavy, black coat or cloak – it’s difficult to tell in the minimal light.
The horror descends on Markus like a shroud.
The left side of the figure’s head is smashed in, the skull dented and patches of flesh ripped away, sewn back with thick stitches. All at once Markus sees the ragged flesh, the grave-dirt beneath the reaching, clawing fingers, the cloak – not a cloak at all but a burial shroud. The long ropes of entrails hanging down and dragging on the floor, writhing and pulsing like angry, diseased snakes. The viscera possess an unholy life of their own, pulsating obscenely as they wetly grip doorframes, tables, and anything else around them, like giant worms dragging their plump meal behind them.
And the eye. That one remaining, familiar eye. Now burning with malevolence.
It isn’t children playing a prank. Or even the Sheriff bearing bad news.
The figure in the doorway…. Is Professor Petros Lorrimor!
Kkkkeeeeeeennnnddd he calls in a choking voice.
------------------
Davos hauls himself out of bed and pulls on his robe.
As he opens his door he sees Kendra pulling a silk bedrobe around herself and moving to the top of the stairway.
Sebastian? Markus? Who’s there…?
She peers into the darkness, straining her eyes to see down the hallway.
A flash of lightning splits the sky, bathing the house in pale eerie light and it is enough, even for the briefest moment, for her to see the Professor-thing in the doorway.
Her hands reach to her chest, like she has been shot through the heart and after a shuddering intake of breath, she screams loud enough to rattle the window panes in their frames…
+7%
-7%
+7%
-7%
-7%
-7%
-7%
The bloated horror ceases its approach. The sloppy intestines seem to sense fresh prey, hovering momentarily before Markus before shooting forward with frightening speed.
Hit
Sebastian and Markus hear the sound of breaking glass to their right.
Olav jumps out of bed and quickly to the door he stands there in just his pants
..... The door handle is red hot as he grasps it, his hands blistering as he rips open the bedroom door , beyond he stares into the writhing fire as it seems to reach for him.
Jon plunges forward into the fire, his clothing bursts into flame, his hair becomes a fireball as it ignites and he begins to scream as the flesh crisps and blackens from the tremendous heat that devours him.
Jon moans and calls out as kendras scream pulls him from the nightmare. throwing off his covers he sees Davos is not in the room. clad only In a light pair of cotton shorts he moves swiftly to the door not bothering to get dressed. his own dream still clings to him and he half expects it to be hot as he reaches for the door handle
Markus shoots back from the shock of what he saw and the hit he falls to the floor, he reaches for his holy symbol around his neck. What was that... Desna please don't make it so Professor no! Then understanding what he's facing he looks up and claims his composer. "Evil has tainted my friend - Undead! Back to the grave! Desna give me the strength!" A light then emanates from Markus as it blasts outwards and hits the professor.
Current HP:5
0 - Level
Guidance
Resistance
Detect Magic
1 - Level
Shield of Faith
Longstrider
Bless
Comprehend Languages
Agile Feet (6/day)
Bit of Luck (6/day)
Priest Channel Positive Energy 1d8 (6/7day) (DC 13)
Sebastian pauses for a moment, taken aback by the horror that stands before him. His mind reels for the briefest of moments and what was once his friend seemingly returned from the grave like some nightmare out of stygian darkness. His hesitation is enough for the thing to attack his friend. Then suddenly his fugue is broken and fifty years of training kicks in, his body reacting of it's own volition he launches himself at the necrous terror and unleashes a flurry of blows at the one time professor's head.
Confirm critical
Damage(left hand)
Damage (Right hand)
Critical (if confirmed)