Megan's Carrion Crown

Game Master Megan Robertson

Terrick seems pensive for a bit, and Nesser just sits quietly. Finally the half orc speaks. "So something is happening with some group called the Whispering Way...involving some place called Harrowstone...and ghosts?" Shrugging slightly, Terrick grins a bit. "Anyone care to tell the out of towner what most of that means?"

Knowledge(religion) about the Whispering Way if applicable: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (15) + 5 = 20

Taelin sits quietly while the journal is read aloud. "There appears to be some information we are lacking. How long ago did the Professor die? Where was he found? What, if anything, was stored in this false-crypt?" She muses for a minute, then starts. "I am sorry, Miss Kendra. I hope we are not making the pain of his passing worse for you. It does appear, however, that there is a degree of question regarding the circumstances of his death."

Kendra sniffles a bit.

"All I know is that 17 days ago he went on one of his explorations of the ruined gaol - 'ghost-hunting' he called it - and... never came back. I enlisted the help of some of the townsfolk, and it appeared that an unstable wall had fallen and... and... crushed him to death."

"Would any of those townsfolk of been in the group that tried to stop his burial?" Dillan pauses giving her time to answer before continuing with his next question, "What is this Ruined Gaol? Is it in town?"

Tre'duinne puts down the journal, listening to the group think and to Kendra's explanation of the Professor's death. His mind wanders back to his time at the university, had he learned of this necromantic cult, The Whispering Way? And what of this Harrowstone, what did he remember? Unsure of himself, he just says to himself, "Whatever, we must tread carefully in this place, Ravengro, they may be scared and frightened of any happenings and quick to blame it on 'outsiders'. Never easy when a population's first reaction is one to mistrust and fear you, just like those who opposed the burial."

Not sure on the rolls you'd want for knowledge he may have of these two things?
Knowledge(history) 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25 Whispering Way
Knowledge(history) 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28 Harrowstone
Knowledge(local) 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 = 11 Whispering Way
Knowledge(local) 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26 Harrowstone

Terrick nods at the wisdom of his new companions words. "Well, why don't we investigate the crypt that the professor last went to? See what we can find? Or do you think we should check and see if there is any information in any of the other books here in his home?" Looking over at Kendra, Terrick smiles. "Ms Kendra? Did your father have a library here in the home? That might have some information?"

None of the people who helped find the Professor's remains were amongst the group who tried to prevent the burial. The tavern keeper who was one of the pallbearers was the first person Kendra approached, he rounded up a few others to help search for the Professor when he didn't return.

The Whispering Way is a sinister organization of necromancers that has been active in the Inner Sea region for thousands of years. It is said that agents of the Whispering Way often seek alliances with undead creatures, or are themselves undead. Just what they believe and what they are trying to accomplish is not known amongst conventional historians - you think that it will take specialist arcane or religious knowledge to find out much more about them.

Harrowstone is a massive gaol, whose ruins loom over the town from atop its bleak hilltop - See R - off the south of the town map. It was built in 4594. Ravengro was founded at the same time as a place where guards and their families could live and that would produce food and other supplies used by the prison. It was partially destroyed by a fire in 4661, the building has stood vacant ever since. The locals suspect that it's haunted, and don't enjoy speaking of the place.

The fire that killed all of the prisoners and most of the guards destroyed a large portion of the prison's underground eastern wing, but left most of the stone structure above relatively intact. The prison's warden perished in the fire, along with his wife, although no one knows why she was in the prison when the fire occurred. A statue commemorating the warden and the guards who lost their lives was built in the months after the tragedy — that statue still stands on
the riverbank just outside of town.

Most of the hardened criminals sent to Harrowstone spent only a few months imprisoned, for it was here that most of Ustalav's executions during that era were carried out. The fire that caused the tragedy was, in fact, a blessing in disguise, for the prisoners had rioted and gained control of the prison's dungeons immediately prior to the conflagration. It was only through the self-sacrifice of Warden Hawkran and 23 of his guards that the prisoners were prevented from escaping — the guards gave their lives to save the town of Ravengro.

At the time Harrowstone burned, five particularly notorious criminals had recently arrived at the prison. While the commonly held belief is that the tragic fire began accidentally after the riot began, in fact the prisoners had already seized control of the dungeon and had been in command of the lower level for several hours before the fire. Warden Hawkran triggered a deadfall to seal the rioting prisoners in the lower level, but in so doing trapped himself and nearly two dozen guards. The prisoners were in the process of escaping when the panicked guards accidentally started the fire in a desperate attempt to end the riot.

You sure know your history! Excellent rolls...

And yes, the Professor does have a library. Or at least, his house is like mine - books everywhere!

Yes, I was rather surprised by the rolls too, and that 1st level feat has paid off a bit, allowing Tre to be a bit bard like with those knowledge rolls.

Tre, seems quite tired after finding the information he was looking for, relaying it to Kendra and his compatriots. Time to reflect and take it all in.

"Investigating the crypt and the gaol might not be the best idea this soon after the funeral. If members of the community thought Professor Lorrimor was a necromancer, being seen investigating around, or possibly entering, a crypt might make them think we are the same. Snooping around Harrowstone might also be seen as suspicious. Perhaps we should spend time doing research beforehand, and getting to know the community. We might be better trusted that way, or at least show them that we mean no harm to the community. I myself would be interested in researching the Whispering Way and seeing what further connections they might have with this Harrowstone."

"Your speak wisely Taelin, we should understand our adversaries, their strengths and weaknesses, before we blindly wander into a hostile environment. As you say, I may know some details of the history of the society and place, but that is past, we must understand the present too." as Tre' nods at the female elf.

I will assume Tre will traet Taelin as an elf, until such a time that she makes her differences known.

I will assume Tre will traet Taelin as an elf, until such a time that she makes her differences known.

She sort of did, back at the gravesite. ;)

Still, if/when she notices things, she'll probably quietly correct you.

OK, what do you want to do?

Kendra says that you are all, of course, welcome to stay in the house for the full month her father's will requires. She seems quite intrigued by Nesser.

Tre' looks around at the others, who seemed consumed by their own thoughts, "Perhaps we should take in the tavern and speak with the inn keeper there. He was the one who went and found the body for Kendra, perhaps he can help us understand how the professor died." the elfs eyes sparkle, as he adds, "and a drink in a friendly and cheerful place may make us all feel a little better. Would you join us Kendra?"

Dillan smiles, "A drink would be good at this somber time." He looks at his companions in turn; the elves then resting his gaze on the half-orc and his pet. "Though if Ravengro is anything like Caliphas I think most of the locals will be unyeidling to relinquishing information."

He smiles again, "Then again good spirits are always known to loosen lips."

Gerlick smiles, and then Nesser pokes him. They stare at each other for a moment, and then Gerlick jumps a bit. "Oh Ms Kendra! Nesser say she saw you staring at him. Are you curious about him?" As Gerlick says this, Nesser puts his hood back up and stands, stretching.

Turning to his new friends, Gerlick nods. "We should share a drink, and get to know each other better if we are going to be working together as it were!"

Dillan smiles, "A drink would be good at this somber time." He looks at his companions in turn; the elves then resting his gaze on the half-orc and his pet. "Though if Ravengro is anything like Caliphas I think most of the locals will be unyeidling to relinquishing information."

He smiles again, "Then again good spirits are always known to loosen lips."

"I'll echo your suggestion. A toast to the Professor is in order."

Gerlick smiles, and then Nesser pokes him. They stare at each other for a moment, and then Gerlick jumps a bit. "Oh Ms Kendra! Nesser say she saw you staring at him. Are you curious about him?" As Gerlick says this, Nesser puts his hood back up and stands, stretching.

Turning to his new friends, Gerlick nods. "We should share a drink, and get to know each other better if we are going to be working together as it were!"

I think you used the wrong alias Stomp. lol

Dillan looks at Silas, "Well two is enough for me!" he turns to Kendra, "Are there weapons laws here?" I sure hope not, I don't think this is a town I want to go drinking in unarmed.

Thats what I get for posting right after waking up derp

Turning to Terrick, the elf smiles a sad looking smile, "Hmmm, Terrick, I don't mean to offend, but in most of these hicksville towns, your apologies Kendra, the populace are often quite superstitious and fearful of strangers and even more so of strange beings. Your honorable and fearless friend, Nesser, might not quite fit into their idea of a quiet eveing having a drink at the tavern. It's bad enough with me and my pointy ears, for many of the common humans still have unforgiving and violent feelings towards those of my race. Perhaps Nesser might like to rest here awhile, whilst we relax in the comfort of the tavern?" Tre' looks at the strong half-orc, trying to discern his reaction, and should he need to explain himself more, or have to utter a profusion of apologies.

Nodding, Terrick looks over at Nesser. "Ready to head home for the night big guy?" Nesser grins, and nods himself. "Ok then, I will see you in the morning!"

Terrick then shuts his eyes, and puts one finger on the rune on his forehead. The rune flashes, and then in an instant Nesser vanishes, his robe falling to the ground. Terrick's forehead no longer has a visable mark on it, and he quickly walks over to the robe and picks it up. "Ms Kendra? Can I be shown my room so I can put my things away before we get going to the tavern?"

Seeing Nesser disappear into nowhere, Taelin gives a low whistle. "Quite the trick. Where has he gone?"

To Dillan, "Perhaps we should go without weapons, just to show them we mean no harm. I am willing to leave my glaive and crossbow here to help set them at ease. My hands are a bit more difficult to leave here." She holds up her hands, showing how the nails have lengthened past normal length and hardened into claws. "An unfortunate part of my heritage, but it is one I must live with."

Let's get you oriented - Town Map

You are staying at N, the Lorrimor house.

There are 2 taverns in town, The Laughing Demon (C) down by the river, and The Outward Inn (K) on the town square. Zokar Elkarid, the innkeeper who helped find the Professor after his death and attended the funeral runs The Laughing Demon.

Kendra says she'll walk down with you and introduce you, but does not really feel like going out drinking tonight. Naturally, she makes sure that everyone is sorted out with rooms (it's big enough a house that you don't need to share), and can leave things safely. She tells Terrick that she's a diviner by trade, and fascinated by anything magical.

She also tells you that the township boasts a small school, a temple of Pharasma, a general store, an apothecary, a moneylender, and a forge, should you have need of any of these services. Governance is by a four-man council, the councilmen all live in town.

Dillan looks at Taelins' hands as they are displayed, "I think it best if we are somewhat armed. I'll bring only my blades." Unconsciously his right hand moves to his ear, "I do not plan to be unprepared for prejudice again in my life." As if aware of his hand it quickly snaps back down. He quickly departs going to his room and returning shortly; his shortsword on his left hip and his dagger on his right.

Terrick goes up to his new room and puts his things away carefully. He then grabs his morningstart and hooks it onto his belt. Coming back down, he smiles at Taelin. "Nesser went home. He is not of our plane, he is from somewhere else. He comes when I ask, and goes home when I tell him to. I can also bring in other small beasts from the celestial realm as needed, but they dont stick around like Nesser does. Does that answer your question?"

"Somewhat. I have not made much study of calling creatures from other planes. My goddesses do occasionally grant me a spell to summon a creature, but they do not last long. I tend to pray for spells I can use to more directly protect people, though." Taelin smiles, then moves off to make sure Sunny has some feed and that her glaive and crossbow are well-kept before returning to join the group.

Headin out to my vacation! Will return on Sunday! *waves*

Have a good one, Terrick.

Am I correct in thinking that you good folk wish to visit The Laughing Demon?

"Thank you Kendra, your guidance is most helpful, to the 'Laughing Demon' then." the elf says, as he smiles warmly at Kendra.

The Laughing Demon. The name pique's Silas' interest. "The name seems ominous in a place like Ustalav but let it not be said that I let the name of a place daunt me. Lead on then."

I believe that is the plan!

Kendra leads you all briskly through the town to the Laughing Demon. Dusk is falling, the air is chill with a hint of rain although at the moment it's dry.

The Laughing Demon is a warm and cheerful-looking place, already quite full. Zokar Elkarid bustles forwards to greet you. He's a shortish human, built like a fire plug, with a bristling moustache under a round nose, and an almost-permanent grin on his face. (Had you not seen him at the funeral, you'd have said 'permanent grin on his face'!)

"Welcome, strangers," he greets you. "Let me tell you this. My philosophy is simple: the best way to meet the horrors of the world is with a jest, for if one can laugh at the worst life has to offer, there remains little to fear! Come in, sit down, have ale and a bite to eat!"

He leads you inside to a large table near the fire, and you scarcely notice Kendra slip away into the darkness. Zokar gestures towards a chalkboard on the wall, listing such delights as vampire steaks, wolfballs, corpse chowder and liquid ghosts.

"What'll it be, folks?"

"I like your philosophy. Consistent with that, how about this? Surprise us with the best in the house."

Dillan looks at Silas and grins, "You buying?"

And I am back!

Terrick walks with his new comrades to the bar, sits down, and simply says "I would like some water please!"

Dillan looks at Silas and grins, "You buying?"

"Why not?"

Dillan smiles then looks at the barkeep, "Indeed a selection of your finest then!" Looking about the room, "Do you have a table suitable for us?"

Sitting at table near the fire, Taelin smiles up at the barkeep. "A glass of water, and I will try one of your liquid ghosts. When you have a moment," and she gestures at the near-full tavern, "pour one for yourself and join us. First round of drinks is on me." Taelin smiles, then turns to look at the room.

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12

Grinning, Zokar comes over with a tray of drinks. Held in pewter half-pint goblets, the drinks have a faint green glow.

"These are liquid ghosts, neighbours."

He passes them out. Cautious sips reveal that it's a light sweetish ale.

"I'll bring a selection of food for you when you are ready, a bit of everything."

A burly fellow at the next table turns towards you. "Just don't ask whose balls he claims are wolfballs... you might not enjoy them as much if you knew..." The others at his table guffaw with laughter at this.

"Pay no heed," says a smaller man with a shock of ginger curls. "It's all quite wholesome, we haven't had a death in... months."

Tre looks with disdain around the room as they sit down, but only after he's brushed the seat with his hand. He leans across to Taelin and Dillan, quietly speaking to them, "This is business not pleasure, try to remember that, we need to talk to Zokar first. He will surely remember things from the scene of the professor's place of death that might help us in the future. Remember this my friends." he scowls slightly at the end, before leaning back and seeing the tankards of ale asks, "Zolkar, a fine ale no doubt, but my tastes have never let me really enjoy such fine fare. Perhaps you would bring some water and a little wine to complement your selection of food stuffs."

Tre' lets the foolish remarks from the other table pass over him without acknowledging them, his face remains dead-pan and serious in this place of frivolity.

"Water? WATER!!!" says Zolkar. "Of course..." He bustles off.

The fellow with ginger curls mutters something about "... going out back to pass it himself..."

But Zolkar is soon back with a pitcher of clear, fresh spring water, and a couple of round wooden platters painted to look like the full moon heaped with meatballs.

"Here you are. Wolfballs. Enjoy."

"Thank you," Dillan looks up at the man smiling, "It smells splendid, would you happen to have the time to join us for a moment sir?"

"Or might there be a chance to talk with you in private?" adds the elf gravely.

Silas smiles as he watches the others do their "espionage" thing. He readies to step in just in case there is a need. Though he believes that the others have the situation well in hand. Silas nibbles on one of the wolf balls. "Tasty, this."

Terrick eyes the balls of meat warily, and then takes one and pops it into his mouth. His eyes then widen in what appears to be joy. "Oh my this are very tasty! What is in them?" Then, with barely a pause, Terrick throws on his best smile and says simply "So, care to tell us how the professor died, where you found him, and whatnot? We really are quite curious sir! I mean, its very odd from what we here...the circumstances of his death that is!"

Diplomacy Check 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25

Finally, Terrick simply adds "Drinking dulls your mind! You need a sharp one if you are going to study!"

Zolkar says "I can chat for a moment but you see how busy we are... if you need a real conversation, to enquire as is natural about your late friend, it will have to wait... we tend to quieten down a bit in an hour or so, once those who wish to eat have eaten, but before the songs and games begin."

In the meantime, the wolfballs are delightful. Once you brave them, you find that they are actually ground lamb mixed with herbs, breadcrumbs and egg, rolled into balls and baked. There are flatbreads, rice and a couple of dips - one creamy, and one salsa-style with quite a bite to it - to accompany the wolfballs.

A tall thin fellow with mousy-brown hair starts to tune a lute. The fellow with ginger curls has started a dice game at his table, and appears to be losing.

An hour passes most enjoyably.

Then Zolkar comes over with a tankard.

"Now, folks, what is it that you are wanting to be told? Yon Professor, he always was poking around ruins and the like, we townsfolk didn't pay him much mind. But one afternoon, his girl Kendra came by in quite a state for he'd not returned after his latest foray having gone out the evening before. Eventually we found Lorrimor's body laying on its back near one of Harrowstone's walls. The stone face of a leering gargoyle that was on the roof above had fallen, the heavy block must have crushed the Professor in a tragic accident. Quite a mess it had made of him..."

Dillan takes in the activities of the inn and enjoys the food. And as Zolkar is able to joy the party at the temple he intently listens to the barkeep speak. Gargoyle heads just don't fall of age? "Was anyone inn town curious about his activities that you know of? Perhaps a stranger in town that strangely arrived after he started looking at the ruins?"

"Indeed Dillan, did no-one think to investigate how the gargoyle might have fallen, for it is a very unlikely co-incidence? Does the town have a guard, did they not look to investigate the death? And do you have any idea what the Professor might have been doing, did he have anything with him or on him when you found him? So many unresolved questions!" the elf asks, his visage one of perplexion and concern. He shakes his head and lowers his eyes, "Our dear friend deserved better."

Zolkar spreads his hands.

"No investigation was undertaken that I know of - the old structures of Harrowstone are known to be unstable. Perhaps the Professor poked around in the wrong place, that's all, a tragic accident.

"Now as for other folks' interest, you know us, a people that keeps themselves much to themselves. Oh, the odd mutterings, as you saw earlier at the burial, there were those said the Professor was a necromancer or practised the Black Arts or somesuch nonsense: but they say them kind of things about everyone who does anything out of the ordinary - work, sleep, drink, a tumble in the hay - step beyond that and you must be Up To Something. You know. I expect you've heard it said about yourselves at times.

"If you are minded to poke around for yourselves, I'll have my boy take you to the place come daylight."

Terrick devours another wolf ball. "Should we go poking around tomorrow? I wouldn't mind seeing a haunted prison! Would be kind of interesting to look at!"

Dillan nods at Zolkar, "That would be most welcome sir."