Rydell sighs to himself. Perhaps I'm letting my bias against orcs get to me. Perhaps half-orcs like Sara and a few others aren't uncommon... Best check in on Basil and his antics. Don't want trouble brewing... make sure that is what he is doing first.
Rydell Walks over to where Basil was talking with the other two. He stands nearby, trying to look like he is just enjoying the atmosphere and trying to eavesdrop on their conversation.
Rydell moves over by the three disgruntled Trunauans and hears normal grousing about half orcs and how they shouldnt even be allowed in town. How they are all loyal to their heritage first. But no direct antagonistic thoughts.
He see's Imara, Rory following after Shel heading out of the Commons in the direction of the lower quarter.
Ovril starts heading out towards The Killing Ground, his normal haunt and finds himself right with Imara, Rory and Shel...heading towards the gates to the Inner Quarter as they headed to the Temple of Iomedae
Im telling you one day we will regret ever letting Half Orcs be part of this community
Youre right about that Basil. Too bad you cant convince Lessie to bring it before the council to have them exiled.
You forget Samuel, Sara, that half breed, sits on the council it wouldnt get any traction.
Shel glances down at the halfling riding up beside her. She could not recall ever speaking with him, but the wolf rider had caught her eye before by virtue of being the only wolf rider in town. ”He is a water spirit.” She says, correcting the halfling. ”He is not always with me. He often goes off to do his own things. Some days I only see him at dawn.” Her eyes run over the canine’s lithe body and it strikes her as odd that they had never had reason to speak before. She was a healer and had skill with animals, the halfling was a member of the militia and had a wolf. ”I’m surprised we’ve never had occasion to talk before. I’ve treated half the animals in Trunau. Has your pup never been injured on the job?”
Phoenix hops from Shel’s shoulder to Rory’s and crows. FORWARD, MIGHTY STEED!
Ovril catches up to Shel, Phoenix, and the others and inquires where they're going since they seem to be actively escaping the party. "Hey! Shel, right? What's going on? I thought now would be a time to celebrate, not to escape."
He then shoots a confused look at Phoenix, who is now adorning Rory's shoulder, perched atop the halfling in its quest for glory. "Eh, I see you're actively embracing the outcome of your Harrow reading, Phoenix. That's good to see. Don't let dreams be dreams, and do as Desna does: travel and wander."
Ryedell sighs. I agree with a little of that they say I suppose... but... Now isn't the time to talk of it.
Rydell walks over to the group. I won't disagree or agree with what you say. However now is not the time or place to brood over it. Why not go enjoy the festivities and at least try to look like you enjoy it? Before truly giving them time to respond, he starts walking away.
Baseil seems shocked that Rydell butted into the conversation...then stammers a bit and says simply Right. before giving theother two a sideways glance and wanders back towards the Temple of Abadar.
Darrick seemed like he was going to swallow his tongue when confronted. and just looked sheepishly away before going back to the food table for 3rds? 4rths?
Samuel was a bit more forceful at first. he said This is none your business Rydell. Keep your nose on your own face.... but when the other two disappear he stammers a bit and then says looking down at the ground I guess your right Guardsman. and moves over to the horsehoe pits
Jagrin walked over and patted Rydell on back. Well Done Rydell. Those three can be trouble thats for sure. I wanted you to know something. Could be important. I leave for a patrol at Dawn I have it from a couple of sources theres something in the wind. Not sure what yet. But Omast heard it from the riverboat Captain Raag Bloodtusk out on his patrol that Hes heard whispers of something big going on. All the Goblinoid traders are leaving Barterstones according to Merriam like they sense something and Rodericks friendship with Katreza...She said in her fevered dreams she sees A Giants Hammer crush Trunau. Now if that isnt a dangerous dream I dont know what is. We need be doubly careful in the coming days. Ill be depending on you!
walked past Rory and Thistle laughing to herself as she saw the wolf running in circles with Rory on his back and a chicken on his head.
She couldnt stop laughing as Rory fell and then picked himself up.
Ror. That was entirely too entertaining. Thanks for that. Hi Imara. Ovril? Right? and Shel. Im off to man the desk at Ramblehouse. Thanks for giving me a laugh. and the halfling was off to the gate.
Rydell gives him a very serious look at the news. Just so you know, I don't think their concerns are entirely false, but then, well... whose to say. They would likely distrust another group were half-orcs not here. He thinks on his avoidance of certain areas and places People like to lay blame on something. Makes things easier sometimes... As for trouble, I'll keep my eyes peeled for any when I go for a hunt.
He casts his glance to the ground for a few moments.
Perhaps my father saw something of this coming? Did he leave to investigate it? If he found something why wouldn't he return?
He glances up, scanning the crowd for Amelia to make sure she was still around and safe.
Perhaps we should talk with Katreza to try and better understand the vision? I doubt any giant is large enough to crush this town in one blow. He asks after several more moments.
Shel covers her mouth to hide a small smile as the wolf chases the chicken. She was used to his antics, but this was more comical than usual. She feels indignation coming from Phoenix as he is unseated; the bird was incapable of feeling fear. ”S-sorry.” she giggles, scooping up her spirit animal despite its protests.
”I was also headed that way.” Shel says, responding to his invitation. ”We’re hoping we can help the seer and get back to the games quickly.”
Behold the power of the Phoenix. Phoenix clucks from Shel’s arms. His feathers glow white and the lost bone slowly rises into the air.
Shel shrugs one shoulder. ”Seems like half the town is in a mood today. Maybe Halgra should order the alcohol put away early. On the other hand, a brawl would be good for my coin purse.”
When nothing strikes her as suspicious, Imara follows absently behind Rory, lost in her own thoughts. [i]Maybe I'm just jumpy because these things always remind me of my father. Ruby said Katreza told her to pick us, but we won, so maybe that's all? Rydell seemed bothered by something earlier, but then he slipped off before I could talk to him. That reminds me...I never saw Sid. Maybe he's still baking for later today? I hope he has some left for me. I wonder if he's making those..." She is vaguely aware of catching up to Shel and being joined by Ovril.
Nevertheless, she continues along behind them until Rory comes flying through the air and lands in a heap at her feet. Imara stops dead, goes into a crouch and again places her hand on the hilt of her sword. After a few moments of confusion, she registers that Thistle is twirling in circles and realizes that Rory must have been thrown. "What in gods names is going on? Did something happen to Thistle?"
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Rydell Saw Amelia talking with Ruby and a few other teen girls and doing henna make up on each other at a table in thecommon area under the watchful eyes of Malcolm and Halgra. He glanced down the lane and saw Rory dusting himself off from taking a fall while Thistle jumped and barked at The Chicken of Shels who seemed to delight in taunting the wolf. Cham was laughing and saying something to the group...even Ovril was their chuckling. His keen ears picked up something about going to see Katreza The matronly half orc seer who Jagrin had mentioned to him.
In the mean time The 4 some headed toward the stout iron gate that separated the upper quarter from the inner quarter. The Upper Quarter was on the flat top of a hill with 50 foot cliffs surrounding it except for the side that slanted down to the Lower Quarter which was only about 15 feet above the ground except at the front gate. Thick Stone walls separated the Inner Quarter from both the Upper and Lower, while a wooden palisade separated the lower from outside. Twin Portcullises separated the lower from the Inner.
Guardsman were posted at each of the gates. What was a little odd was even today a pair of guardsman were hauling lumber into position in the inner quarter and beginning to work on what might be thought of as barricades. odd.
As the group approaches the Killing Ground off to the left, they see the door is locked and the lights are out. Of course. Rabus would be at the festival.
They continue on down to the lower quarter, the hopesprings waterfall splashes melodically in the distance. Silvermane Could be seen kneeling at the waters edge.
The bakery was well lit and Imara gave thought. of course with a patrol going out at dawn Sid would be preparing hardcakes for them to take as part of their provisions.
Past Ramble House and to Sanctuary The group continued. seeing the Sword of Iomedae perched atop the building...but what was strange as well...and the group gave thought to this seeing it here....the fluorescent sword painted above the door below the roofline. These painted swords were a new thing. they were found near the waterfall of Hopesprings, on the East Tower of the wall separating Lower and Inner Quarters, On Sanctuary, and on The Common North wall. Standing before the doorway to Sanctuary made it hard not to think of these. They glowed in the near sunset light
Th only thing Rory knows is they started showing up on things about 2 weeks ago...to a week ago.
Rydell goes to follow after Rory, Imara and the others. He silently falls in behind them, half lost in his thoughts.
Shel gives another one-shoulder shrug. "Maybe the Iomedaeans have some kind of new ritual. I don't expect Silvermane appreciates them painting up his waterfall."
I know, but I'll never tell. Phoenix croons from Shel's arms.
DO I want to go see Katreza? Hmm...spend the rest of the day brooding, or let it go and get back to the present?
Imara nods at Rory. "Yes. I do! Did you say something about her being sick?"
As they walk, she notices the bakery lit up and dashes inside to wave at Sid and steal a fresh-baked roll. "Love you! Thank you! I'll stop by later tonight!" She dashes back out again to catch up with the group.
"I have seen them as well...I don't know what they mean. It's sort of strange, though, don't you think?" And why are they working on a new barricade today? That seems strange as well. Noticing Rydell nearby, Imara turns to him. "I noticed you took off earlier - is everything alright?" I can usually count on Rydell to notice if something isn't right. Am I just being paranoid today or is something really going on?
The doors to Sanctuary are stout oak with bands of iron across them. A set of double doors designed to stop all but the most deliberate of assaults. Inside the foyer An Acolyte asks how he could help you as he lights a candle on a table with a bowl and cup. both have the upraised sword that represents the Swordmaid. An Archway forwrd leads to the temple proper while a pair of doors lie off the left and right.
Rydell gives a glance to Imara. I don't know, there were... activities and people that roused my suspicion. And an underlying sense of unease among some of the people. He involuntarily glances at Shel before quickly forcing his gaze back.
But, perhaps it was just my overly suspicious nature. There was another issue involving talk against half-orcs which had to be resolved. But, I think things are fine now. Though I will likely keep my eyes out for a large part of the night. Something just itches in my stomach and the news about these visions don't help to settle it. You are welcome to accompany me tonight if you so wish. Long as you can keep up.
He glances up towards the Sanctuary for a long moment before speaking to the rest of the group as a whole, though never makes eye contact with Shel. We are here to find out more about this vision I assume. Let us hurry and be done with it. I'd rather not linger.
The Acolyte says simply. Why of course. Though I think with Katreza's advance sickness it is probably better for the pets He glances at Thistle and Phoenix Should remain out here in the foyer. I cannot promise she will be awake, of if she is, that she will be able to be coherent. She has been very feverish
He turns to the left door coming into the foyer and opens it. A hall goes straight and turns. Several doors run off the hall on either direction as it turns again going deeper, though you do not go that far. He leads you to the 2nd door on the right, and knocks on the door...hearing nothing, he cracks it and a darkened room that reeks of sweat and sickness is opened to the air. A small room barely with enough space for a bed and a small table and chair can be seen from the hall. Katreza is laying in bed eyes shut. A single candle in a candle holder sits on the table but the wick is not lit. The glass of water that sits on the table is half empty. There obviously is not enough room for everyone to crowd into the small room and The Acolyte steps back saying Ill leave you folks alone recognizing three militia members as well as a healer present.
”Phoenix is not a pet. He is a water spirit and a healer.” Shel corrects the acolyte, clutching to the furious chicken struggling to escape her arms. ”Shh shh. It’s alright, we have work to do here.” The shaman lacks the ability to see in the dark that most of her kind have. She casts a spell and touches the hope knife around her neck, causing it to glow with a sterile white light and approaches the bed. The angle of the light source would not be ideal, but it was better than nothing. ”Katreza?” Shel calls softly. ”Are you awake?”
Katreza lay on the bed, her eyes shut. sweat apparent on her face. her head moving side to side. open sores...postules were spread across her shoulders, arms and neck. a few on her forehead and cheeks. Her pillow had blood and flem soaked in them. It was obvious the church was trying to help with healing and treatment but hadnt been able to forestall the disease spread, by the smell of unguents and incense in the room.
she was muttering in half whispers, words to soft to hear.
”Why wasn’t I called before she got this bad?” Shel mutters angrily. She casts her eyes around the room and spots an empty basin. Walking over to the basin, she utters a commanding word and the basin fills with clean, fresh water. She scrubs her hands and forearms in the water to remove the mud caked on her palms from the rope game earlier, and dries them on a relatively clean looking cloth. With a wave of her hand, she dismisses the water in the basin and refills it, dipping a clean strip of cotton from her satchel into it and wringing it out. She returns to Katreza’s side and places the back of her hand on the seers forehead to gauge her temperature, then lays to wet cloth across her forehead to provide some relief from the fever. She then turns her attention to the sores, the most concerning aspect of her condition, examining their shape, color, and smell to try and place their source.
Phoenix puts his plans for vengeance against the acolyte on hold when he sees the sick seer. He hops from Shel’s arms to the bed, hopping along one side of the mattress as to not step on the patient, and looks over her symptoms. Hmm, yes yes. I see. Why wasn’t I called before she got this bad? He clucks, eyeballing one of the sores.
Though I will likely keep my eyes out for a large part of the night. Something just itches in my stomach and the news about these visions don't help to settle it. You are welcome to accompany me tonight if you so wish. Long as you can keep up.
Imara snorts. "Keep up? Please. You are not the only one - something seems off tonight. I would like to join you. I can keep you out of trouble." She smirks playfully at him before following the others into the Sanctuary.
Once they enter the hallway, Imara looks around with interest. Never been here before. It's not a terribly exciting hallway, but Imara always enjoys the opportunity to explore a new area, no matter how mundane.
When they reach Katreza's romm, she wrinkles her nose and grimaces. "There is not enough room in there for all of us. I'll stay out here and keep any eye on things." Imara leans against the wall in the hallway, and watches anyone that walks by with intimidating stares. She keeps an eye out for anything out of the ordinary or suspicious.
The Acolyte makes a noise as if scoffing at Shels words and attitude. Saying Why would we seek to call you? This a temple to the Swordmaiden and Tyari Varavtos is quite capable of performing healing. This is beyond her. Why would you think you are more capable?
Shel looks her over and Phoenix clicks at the base of the bed and after some careful study Phoenix looks at Shel and clucks a couple times.
Between the two of them they realize that Katreza has a form of Blister Phage.
This disease causes a painful and hideous outbreak of facial tumors and a sickening deterioration of the skin across the entire body, and also works on the minds of some, slowly driving them insane.
Cure: The disease cannot be cured with any number of successful saving throws. Whenever the afflicted creature succeeds at a saving throw to resist the disease’s effects by 5 or more, you automatically succeed at your next saving throw against the disease’s effects as well. Even spells that can normally cure diseases only cause the disease to become dormant for 2d4 days, after which the affected creature must begin attempting saving throws to resist the disease’s effects once more.
Only powerful magic like a miracle or a wish is sufficient to completely cure a creature of an incurable disease.
Special The disease responds violently to any attempts to heal it using magic. Whenever the diseased creature is subject to a spell or ability that cures diseases, it must succeed at a Fortitude save or suffer the disease’s effect. This does not reset the disease’s frequency, and succeeding at this check does not count toward the number of consecutive saves required to be cured of the disease.
Imara runs through the events of the day in her head as the others tend to Katreza. What happened today? Last night, I felt a sense of foreboding, for no reason. Today, Rodrick and Jagrin were arguing - but that was probably about Brinya. Someone bought all of the shovels in town. Rydell was on edge. He thought people were acting suspiciously, or seemed nervous. The guards were building a barricade - are they the ones that bought the shovels? And if we're in the militia, why aren't we aware of anything? Rory doesn't know?
She calls into Katreza's room. "Rory, you don't know anything about why the guards are working on those barricades? No one said anything to you about -" She stops abruptly, then looks into the room and lowers her voice. "-being on high alert?
"It's not the plague, but it is about as bad as it can be." Shel says, glancing across the bed to the halfling. She sighs heavily, shoulders drooping in defeat. Overwhelming feelings of sorrow and uselessness flood Shel's mind through her empathic link with Phoenix as the bird flops over on its side, despondent. "There's nothing that can be done. Nothing anyone can do. She has a few days, a week at most. This is not a normal disease. She didn't pick this up from a squirrel." Death was a part of life, but it was never easy to watch helplessly as someone was taken before their time. She sighs again, staring down at the seer for a few moments. "It's possible Phoenix could suppress the effects of the disease to give Katreza a few minutes of lucidity. Is there anyone in Trunau that might have dire need to speak with her?" She glances at Rory again. "Family?"
Rydell gives those with more medical training than basic first aid and minor trauma training room to work.
I would speak to her about her vision of a giant's hammer crushing the town and why she told ruby to choose us all to be her champions... was it something she saw? Or half crazed babbling from the sickness? he gives a glance to the acolyte before looking around the building, a scowl forming on his face as he looks back to the acolyte. once again this place proves useless it seems. Did you ever even think to ask anyone else? Or were you just so proud that to admit you could do nothing for her to people didn't even cross your mind? Rydell manages to keep emotion from his voice, but his eyes are almost daggers as he thinks back to him begging them to save his mother. He knew she was dead then. But lied to himself. Still. He has heard of resurrection magic, rare, difficult, expensive... but they had told him they could do nothing. He knew it was unfair to blame them, after all, they likely saved more lives than he ever had, but some part of him didn't care. It was that part that was stirring. As once again, it seemed a life was not important enough. The thought that it was a half-orcs life didn't matter to him anymore at this time.
perhaps Silvermane might know of a way to deal with the disease if more conventional magic healing can't. I heard tales of druidic circles and magic from my father. If he spoke truth, I'd say one of them would likely know if anything else could be done. A natural cure of sorts? he adds, never one to give up or admit defeat.
When Shel shares the verdict, Ovril doesn't know how to feel. For starters, he has trouble coming to grips with the fact Katreza isn't long for this world. And wow, not even Tyari can cure it, let alone keep it in check?! What terrible crossroad did Katreza stumble upon, to have met such a terrible fate? The Varisian's nervous tick scratches and itches at the back of his mind, whispering to be sated, causing his fingers to ache to draw a card.
But for now, he resists the urge. "Rory speaks wise words. Tyavi has a close relationship with Katreza, and it only seems right we'd ask her first. After all, perhaps this state of lucidity is a blessing in disguise, since she might not be aware of the pain ..."
All in all, it's quite clear that Ovril is uncomfortable with poor Katreza's state. He has seen death before, but never someone undergoing the process of dying.
The Acolyte didnt respond to Rydell jab merely saying The Lady of Valor saves who she will and takes who she will.