Tolvan would have thought of such things as Holy Water, Scrolls of Magic targeting undead, garlic, those types of tools and weapons.
On Verified Madness: This jet-black book 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 text is a copy of one of several unholy books sacred to the goddess Urgathoa. Lorrimor’s notations liberally sprinkle the margins.
The Umbral Leaves: This lexicon is a translation into Common of the unholy book of Zon-Kuthon.
Locked Purple Book : The rich purple cover contains a brass scarab set with a single eye in its center. The book’s covers are rimmed in polished steel and clasped with a small but intricate lock, the keyhole of which appears to be for a key with a strange, triangular shaft.
We must discover what, or whom, they sought within Harrowstone. And if possible, we must prevent them from attaining it.
Anna laughs incredulously. A thousand-year cult of undead necromancers? I knew some half-orcs who wouldn't back down from a fight, but WOW! You've got a set of tusks on you.
She pushes herself out of her chair, feeling weary despite the flutters in her stomach, and takes the suggested action of checking the locks on the windows and doors of the professor's -- Kendra's -- home. With it being late and the light (and weather) poor, she'll skip the elf's suggestion about trip wires and snares. Not that she's all that good at making them anyway.
She'll patrol the grounds of the estate for a bit, staying close to the shadows and making sure nothing is lurking about.
Tolvan will detect magic on all 4 tomes to make sure again, and look the locked book over as best he can, looking for possible traps.
Afterward he shares what he learns and asks the group about maybe opening the locked book before we turn it over. He is operating under the premise that all knowledge is good knowledge, which might not be right when it comes to some of this stuff. Anna, If we decide it must be opened, do you think you could open it?
Anna doesn't notice anything or anyone suspicious while making her rounds, but once she does feel a distinct feeling of being watched -right between her shoulder blades- and what could be a breeze but feels like the a breath of a man on the back of her neck. If she turns around she sees nothing behind her but darkness and the lingering touch of that same breeze on her neck.
Inside, Tolvan reads and ponders, and the three known books reveal no hidden secrets. They appear to be genuine and contain exactly what you'd expect inside them. The purple volume is another matter, and after tapping his great memory of the arcane, he recalls an obscure reference about a locked purple book. He finally recalls it is referred to as the Manual of the Order of the Palatine Eye, one of the principal works of the Esoteric Order of the Palatine Eye. This order is a secret society whose members have deep interests in all things political and arcane.
Anna scampers back inside and closes the door in a rush. She shivers a few times, and glances back outside through a nearby window. Calistria's pity! she swears under her breath.
Shaking her head and getting ahold of herself, she moves back into the parlor. Glancing at the book in Tolvan's hand, she shrugs. Dunno. Probably would be better with a key. I might be able to get it open. She looks around for some spare utensils that might be useful in the task. Picking up a cheese knife, fork and a corkscrew, she turns back to him. You want me to try?
A thousand-year cult of undead necromancers? I knew some half-orcs who wouldn't back down from a fight, but WOW! You've got a set of tusks on you.
Pyotr turned to the woman, his head canted at an angle. The object of their desire lies in the haunted and cursed ruins of a prison that once housed the most vicious and bloodthirsty criminals in all the land. You think, perhaps, we are safer if we allow them to succeed?
At the least, we must learn what they seek. It may be necessary to protect it. It may only be necessary to disable or destroy it. Until we know more, we can only speculate.
A thousand-year cult of undead necromancers? I knew some half-orcs who wouldn't back down from a fight, but WOW! You've got a set of tusks on you.Pyotr turned to the woman, his head canted at an angle. The object of their desire lies in the haunted and cursed ruins of a prison that once housed the most vicious and bloodthirsty criminals in all the land. You think, perhaps, we are safer if we allow them to succeed?
Anna grimaces. Well, when you put it like that, perhaps not.
At the least, we must learn what they seek. It may be necessary to protect it. It may only be necessary to disable or destroy it. Until we know more, we can only speculate.
Ugh. Well, maybe in the morning we can check out the town, see if anyone knows anything about the prison. The professor's been dead how long now? The whisperers have had their run of the place for days. They're either dug in, or they're long gone.
Anna glances back over her shoulder a few times while talking with Pyotr, and makes sure she stays away from the windows.
The Professor desired a list of those housed within the prison walls. He believed such a list resided in the local temple. We should seek the aid of Father Grimburrow.
Tolvan considers Anna. Hmm. Perhaps we should get you a decent set of tools before you give it a try. We do have a month before we turn it over, after all. You seem, well, shaken Anna. Are you ok?
To Pyotr he agrees. Yes, excellent recommendation. And we must of course check out that potential cash of items that could protect us from the spirits.
Its late and I don't think I will glean more from these tomes tonight. The elf stands, places all the books back into the chest and locks it, placing the keep onto an old bow string and secures it around his neck. He strings his bow and leans it and a quiver of arrows against an over-sized chair. He then puts the chest back into its sack and puts it in the same chair.[b]This chair is comfortable. I will sleep here.[b/] he announce and he sits down and leans onto the bagged chest, his sword belt still belted around his waste.
As Tolvan states his readiness for rest, a tired Kimberly points out several spare rooms, both upstairs and on the main level, for any who are more interested in feather beds than leather chairs.
Noticing the elf's sudden movement, Kimgald glaces up from the copies of the Professor's journal pages. He nods, only catching Tolvan's final words. "There is still much to learn, but I agree; further investigations must wait for morning. We have all had a stressing day."
Kimgald nods in thanks of Kimberly's directions and retires to one of the upstairs rooms for the night.
To Tolvan, she laughs nervously. Shaken? We've just learned of a haunted prison, evil cultists, and the very real probability that Lorrimor was murdered. Why should I be shaken?
She sets down the cutlery with a sigh. Looks like everyone else is going to bed. I'll do the same.
The Next Morning
As promised Kendra is up and the aroma of eggs, sausage, and coffee fill the home. The food is set up in a dining area in an area deeper into the house you haven't seen before, with a red-eyed Kendra there already picking at her food. "Welcome to tomorrow. Come in, come in, the food won't stay warm forever." The table has some assorted fruit laid out as well, in large decorative bowls. Kendra has her fathers journal in hand, smiling and frowning from page to page, but she seems to be enjoying the read. While her eyes are red and puffy from crying, the tears seem to have stopped for the time being.
After you have had a chance to sit and eat some, Kendra speaks up, "First of all I'm glad you decided to stay, I was a bit out of sorts last night. But I've been thinking about what Father said in his journal and will, and I had some ideas if any of you are looking for more information." There at the table she lays out some possible locations you can gather additional information on various mysteries. The Whispering Way, Harrowstone , and the gradual worsening of the towns demeanor the last few years. Kendra, who is an avid reader, says there are several impressive libraries around town; 1) Her fathers personal library here in the home. 2) Ravengro Town Hall records room. 3) the Temple of Pharasma library - home of Father Grimburrow. 4) The Unfurling Scroll, a school/magic shop run by Alendru Ghoroven - a good friend of her fathers.
Kendra admits these places might help a lot or not at all, and may help with certain topics, but not others... she isn't sure. She also reminds of the hidden stache of tools and weapons her father mentioned, which might bear some research. She urges all caution, who knows what the Whispering Way has done in the 18 days since murdering her father. The townspeople, she says, won't be happy with strangers making accusations or barging in doors, and she is none too popular lately with the location of her fathers death. "Be as diplomatic as possible, and hopefully that will open doors and mouths, and feel free to use this home as a place of rest or discussion at any time. I'll help as I'm able, but I intend to stay within these walls, to be near my father and his things, as well as protect it." She sits back, having talked for several minutes, "If you don't intend to pursue this, and wait the month out, I understand. Look what happened to my father. I will be fine no matter what you decide, but I'd be lying if I didn't say I hope you find those responsible and bring them to justice."
Tolvan comes to the table stifling a yawn and carrying the chest from the night before. He places the chest onto the floor beside him and slides it partway under the table with his foot. In response to any strange looks about the chest he simply says What? I feel responsible for these is all. .
He sits and serves himself. As he does so he reaches into his tunic and retrieves a dog eared notebook and places it on the table beside him and smiles very satisfied with himself. Thank you for this wonderful breakfast Kendra. After a fork full or two and some approving sounds he asks. Kendra, I have a few questions about your father. Was your father a spell caster? And did he often carry any weapons? And what was found with him when his body was retrieved? Its important to know if he had been robbed of any possessions as that would further indicate foul play.
Kimgald shuffles wearily down the stairs. Led by the smells of breakfast he makes his way to the dining area. The dwarf smiles as he draws close enough to see Kendra and Tolvan, and takes a seat at the table. "Good morning, to you both."
A look of concern crosses the dwarf's face as he helps himself to some food at Kendra's repeated invitation. His gaze drops from her face to the journal in her hands, before returning to once again regard her demeanor. "You should not force yourself to relive the tragedies in life alongside its joys, child. At least, not at the moment. It is clear you find your father's writings to be distressing. Let us worry about his work; you should focus on recalling fonder memories. It is what Petros would want."
Kimgald turns to Tolvan as he begins to eat. "Please, tell me what I have missed." The dwarf pays close attention to the elf's words, and sets aside his utensils upon the conclusion of Tolvan's summary. "I admit I am curious to discover what Petros may have gathered on the subject of his writings. Perhaps Lady Kendra is correct: the people of this town seem unlikely to welcome questions from strangers. It may be possible to gain a better understanding of the situation without leaving this house. If nothing else we may be able to find the list of names he mentioned, detailing those lost in the prison fire."
Kimberly comes to have breakfast almost as if the event the night before are a distant memory.
I know people at church. can I go see the books there? The doctor promised me he would read me a story, But I can read on my own now and I would like to read a story and pretend the doctor is with me listening. maybe one of you can come with me.
besides father "grimface" knows me she suddenly realizes she accidentially used father Grimburrow's nick-name she has for him (but would never say it if front of him).
She stops to have more food.
She looks to Kendra (almost instictively as if it is a morning ritual)
Am I to go back to the Hospital today?
Kendra smiles appreciation at Tolvan's gratitude, "You're welcome, I've found it's good to keep busy. As to your questions, I do not believe he was a spellcaster... more an adventurer/scholar. He would hire out if he needed a particular set of skills, magical or mundane. He would carry a small dagger with him, and perhaps rent the occasional crossbow, but that was a rare thing. He still had his knife when he was found, and his notepad and money were still on his person. If he took anything else with him before going there, I wasn't aware of it. That's part of the reason the Sheriff was so sure it was an accident, what thief would leave the valuables?"
She nods her greeting at Kimgald, not responding verbally to his advice, but nods in acceptance of the wise words.
"Good morning Kimberly, we'll see about going to the church today... the hospital. We can talk about it."
Kendra, Let me set your mind at ease. I for one plan to continue you father's work. What he has begun here is just too important to go un-completed. I hope the rest of the group agrees and will stay and help. He looks to the others to see what they say to this 'proposal'.
Kendra smiles, "That is good to hear Tolvan," and also waits to hear what the others say.
"I will stay as well, of course." Kimgald finishes his breakfast rests his head on one hand thoughtfully, his elbow resting on the table. "Perhaps I should accompany Lady Kimberly to the church. She could introduce me to Father Grimbriar."
Almost automatically Kendra replies, "Burrow, and thank you Kimgald."
"I will stay as well, of course." Kimgald finishes his breakfast rests his head on one hand thoughtfully, his elbow resting on the table. "Perhaps I should accompany Lady Kimberly to the church. She could introduce me to Father Grimbriar."
Kimberly smirks trying to conceal a laugh at the dwarf's comment. she then starts to set a second breakfast plate next to her and pretends to feed her Teddy some breakfast.
As Pyotr takes his place at the table, there is the faint, pleasant aroma of sandalwood soap lingering around him. His travel-stained clothes have vanished, and even his armor is polished and shining. As soon as he is seated, he serves himself a monstrous proportion of the breakfast, oblivious to whether he's left enough for others.
Perhaps I should accompany Lady Kimberly to the church. She could introduce me to Father Grimbriar.
I would like to speak to this Father Grimburrow, myself. I would also like to take a look at this town, called Ravengro.
After that, there is very little to be heard from the Half-orc, as he plunges into the business of breakfast, eating all he served himself and looking for more.
When he is finished, and the others are ready to depart, he will journey with them to the temple.
what did you say? Kimberly asks Teddy
Are you sure?
after a short pause
OK I will that was nice
Kimberly gets up and gives her teddy's plate of food to Pytor.
Teddy said you can have this I think he likes you
Kimberly gets up and gives her teddy's plate of food to Pytor.
Teddy said you can have this I think he likes you
Despite his practiced stoicism, and careful reserve, Pyotr grins. It appears less like a smile, and more like a wolf with hackles raised or a lion standing over a fallen gazelle. Under that salivating maw, you feel quite glad to have a plate of food in hand.
Thank you, dear child. And thank the one called Tedd--**slurps and chomps down the entire plate of food**--y
Tolvan finishes breakfast quickly and excuses himself from the group. My new friends, the professor's library calls to the academic in me. If you will excuse me, and Kendra will show me the way, I will busy myself with that task. While I would like to go with you to visit this church I simply must get to that library first. I do not blame you if you cannot wait for me and I trust you will take good notes. With that he holds out his and for Kentra. Looking back he adds. I do hope you will not enter the crypt without me. It could be dangerous. And keep in mind that this cult likely has spies in town, and maybe even in the church.
Anna comes dragging into the kitchen, still bleary-eyed and hair sleep-tousled. Mornin' she mumbles before sagging into a chair. There's a look about her, that maybe she had some trouble sleeping, and needed a nighttime sleep aid (i.e. wine) to help.
She looks about at the faces and picks up on the last shreds of the conversation. We entering a crypt? Oh, wait, yeah, Lorrimor's stash. Sure. Nothing like asking first before doing a little grave-robbing. No one'll find any problem with that.
Pyotr turns an upraised brow upon Anna. By his own words, it is not "Lorrimor's stash". It belongs to the Pharasmans. Father Grimburrow seems a worthy man, and does not share the common folks' superstition and suspicion of the Professor. I suspect he can be reasoned with.
If he knows about it. What if he doesn't believe us? We might need another way to get leave to go looking around in old tombs.
Kendra, who has been listening in, adds, "I think seeking permission would be appreciated. This is a fairly insular town, and if you were seen sneaking around the Restlands, it would taken badly I think. Good luck and be careful." With that she takes Tolvans arm and leads him and Anna to the library -a 15x15' room, with books from top to bottom on subjects of all kinds.
Kimgald, Kimberly and Pyotr set out on a meandering path through Ravengro, Kimberly pointing out buildings, birds, trees, etc... The poor weather from yesterday has blown over, and the sun is out and townspeople are out and about. You receive curious, uneasy, and in some cases hostile-looking glances from the bustling folks. On the way, you notice a group of five little Varisian girls dressed in shawls and dresses are playing a skipping rope game at the side of the road. Each of the girls takes turns jumping in the rope while singing two lines of a song, then skips out of the rope to let the next girl take up the next two lines. The way in which the girls switch from skipping to passing the ends of the rope to each other to keep the whole thing going is strikingly well timed and well choreographed.
Put her body on the bed.
Take a knife and lop her head.
Watch the blood come out the pipe.
Feeds the stirge, so nice and ripe.
Drops of red so sparkly bright.
Splatters spell her name just right.
With a hammer killed his wife.
Now he wants to claim your life.
Tricksy father tells a lie.
Listen close or you will die.
Kimberly stops a moment to watch the girls playing jump rope. she then looks to her escorts.
do you think they will let me play? she asks Teddy.
she listens to what Teddy says in her ear.
Kimberly starts to walk toward the girls playing until she is close enough for them to notice and she stops and stares for a moment.
can I play?
Pyotr follows close upon Kimberly's heels. Occasionally, he stops and sniffs at the air, turning his head or walking off a bit. But, he returns quickly.
Perhaps not today, little one.
Pyotr listens closely to the macabre lyrics, taking careful note.
Kimgald smiles warmly as Kimberly indicates things of interest to her, despite the fact that most of them lie beyond the limits of his ability to see them. At the same time, though he cannot see the majority of those looking at the trio with suspicion the dwarf does take note of the general sense of unease resulting from the strangers' presence.
As Pyotr moves to herd Kimberly away from the other children Kimgald rests a hand on the half-orc's forearm. "Let her be, friend Pyotr. We are in no hurry."
Kimberly looks to the half orc.
she smiles to him
I wasn't asking you silly.. she says playfully
I was asking them pointing to the girls.
Be careful out there. Those cultist have had 18 days to work their mischief. Tolvan warns as he disappears down the hall with Kendra. And come and get us before you enter that crypt. he reminds from some place beyond your sight.
The girls all stop as Kimberly and the others approach, the girls being known to Kimberly, but never played together over-much. Kimberly was more often in the company of adults such as Kendra or the Professor, among others. The sight of odd strangers are definitely making the girls uncertain, and stare blankly, the game a memory.
Kendra and the others start pulling a few volumes out, trying their luck at gaining worthwhile information, the sounds of pages turning and quiet breathing dominating the space.
Tolvan takes in the library smiling, obviously pleased to be within such a place. He happily looses himself in the volumes searching for more on Harrowstone itself and on the fire that took place there. He also looks for more on the Whispering way, and for any information the professor might have been keeping about what he had already found.
While happily researching away he will not forget basic security and make sure the house is secure and that basic chores like bringing in fire wood get done.
Sorry, Tolvan, I'm just not that up on local news right now. I only just arrived, and there weren't many folk around interested in gossiping.
After several hours of sorting and cataloguing books, Anna pushes away from the tomes and stretches.
I need a break from all this. You want to go hit the tavern?
Kendra spends lots of time with her nose in books, looking up obscure histories and journals, many of which she's never seen herself. You all even find a forgotten journal entry of a former Harrowstone guard. Kendra does take the time to prepare an early lunch at one point. After several hours you all sit back to consider what you've learned, a staggering amount of information really.
Harrowstone 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. 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 conf lagration. It was only through the selfsacrifice 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.
The girls just look at Kimberly, almost as if they want to ask her to play, but cast another look at the Dwarf and Half-Orc, and remain silent. Both groups regard each other silently.
You've studied for the morning and into the afternoon.