|
Hello, well a friend kind sort of pleaded/asked me to write this little journal in counter point to theirs, as our two characters are twins, and I have finally agreed to do it, undoubtedly this will turn out to be a lot of fun.
The Starting Party
•Esmyrelda Mvashti (Myself) – Human (Varisian) Cleric of Desna. Aliases/Nicknames include; Esme, Ruby, Amber and a few others.
•Emyralda Mvashti – Human (Varisian) Battledancer. Esme’s Identical sister. Aliases/Nicknames include; Emy, Emerald, Ember and many more.
•Deivan Valdemar – Human (Mixed blood) Rogue. Aliases/Nicknames include; Fatty, Tubby and ‘Hero’.
•Tammer –Human (Chelexian) Bard, Adoptive son of Headmaster Ilsoari Gandethus. Aliases/Nicknames include; Emo.
•Glorli – Dwarf Fighter and Craftsman. Aliases/Nicknames include; Glori, Gori.
Character Background
Esme was born out in the wilds, being preceded by her identical twin Emyralda by a few minutes. The births were thought of as a blessing from Desna, as it fell on the festival of Swallowtail release. This blessing was truly realised as the twins showed a talent for dancing and an aptitude for learning new things, they were thought to be touched by destiny and so were sent to the ever wise ‘Grandmother’ Mvashti in Sandpont. Fortunately she took us in, and raised us as her own, being taught many interesting things as well as being sent to the Turandarok Academy.
The young twins were always getting into trouble, and took great delight in mistaken identities, and skipping Academy lessons, with the glib lie; “On a errand for our Grandmother� on their lips whenever they were caught. They were nearly inseparable and enjoyed celebrating all the Desnan festival, spending most of the night on the dance floors. Both twins were very talented but each chose to take slightly different life paths.
Esmyrelda had embraced Grandmothers teachings, and showed an aptitude for divine magics, being the slightly weaker twin, she never saw herself as a warrior and embraced the priesthood instead. She found herself drawn to the teachings of Desna, slightly different from the beliefs of Grandmother, but strangely compatible.
Emyralda found an interesting tutor, who taught her the ways of the Battle dancer, and learned lots of new dance moves.
The twins blooming into two beautiful young ladies, and enjoyed using their identical nature to their advantage as well as their fine looks whenever they got a chance.
Starday 22nd Rova 4707
Dear Diary,
Must admit I have been wishing this day to go faster and just end, suppose I should explain, you see it is our Birthday tomorrow, well in about 9 hours technically, and well it can’t come quickly enough. Roll on the fun, all the drinking and dancing and even some jewellery maybe, I think my sister and I have made enough hints over the last year. Plus it is an important festival tomorrow too, Swallowtail release and the consecration of the new Cathedral, do hope the Father is feeling nice and lets me have the day off though.
Kiss Es.
Sunday 23rd Rova 4707
Dear Diary,
Finally it was our birthday, time to wear that special dress, don the sashes and go and play. Grandmother had laid out a fine breakfast, and they were two hair ties in the shape of a butterfly awaiting us as well. Seemed such a lovely start, but it all turned sour so quickly. Though I do confess much of this day seems a blur to me, for more reasons than one; Gin, mead, wine and whiskey, to name the ones I actually remember.
Well, it continued to get better, as the Good father let me have the day off, ‘woohoo’, so no incredibly long consecration ritual to sit through. The starting ceremony was quite good, though the sheriff brought a big downer to the occasion with his talk of death and so deserved our light hearted heckles, but at least the others were more upbeat and fun, though still no honorary mention of his favourite priest’s birthday ‘pout’. Things continued to improve too, so many drinks were bought for us, we had them lining up, plus I even mentioned I fancied a gin, and ‘hey presto’ there was a bottle in front of me, so it was a quick drink and stored in the folds of my sashes for later.
Lots of drinks were bought for us, but sadly no little gifts of jewellery, guess some men really do never listen, but I was still having a fantastic time. Though I think Deivan was being quiet generous when at the bar, and I am sure I noticed the Brooding Tammer and the dour Glori nursing beers together and making pointed dark comments on the festivities, that caused a wry grin. I seem to remember that Tammer is a twin too, though I am not sure where his brother is, can’t say I have ever met him, but he is a few years older than sis and I anyway, and well disposed to the Head of the school. This whole brooding emotional type thing is new though, wonder if something is getting him down. Deivan seemed quite enthusiastic at the festivities; well at least his heart was in the right place.
Then that nice sugar coated bubble burst big time, first there was a creepy, haunting song in some odd slightly guttural language, that was a little painful to hear. Just didn’t know where to look, then young Kethri’s dog gave a yelp. All I could see was its slumped form, and blood seeping from it, quite shocking I could only stare and feel sorrow for the poor canine, and feel fear gripping my heart, meanwhile my sister is beating small goblinoids into pulp, even chasing them out of town a little, and killing one of their terrible little singers, I did try and follow when I could, anger was starting to get the better of me, after all they had ruined our birthday. Can’t say I had a very active part in these activities, kind of felt my anger made my attacks more futile rather than fuel them, or maybe the vast amounts of alcohol in my system was in part responsible..
We did manage to save a particularly notable young man Mr Foxglove, quite the looker and a nobleman too, bet he has had some travels too. Though I think my sister and I were both entertaining the same thoughts concerning this ‘numy treat’.
We ended up in tavern of all places to end the day, a few quiet drinks, while Em’s and I discussed having a second birthday since this one turned out to be such a dud.
Kiss Es.
Moonday 24th Rova 4707
Dear Diary,
Got to spend time with Deivan, Tammer and that Nobleman, whose name was actually Aldern, nice to have a name, strange I missed it before. We spent a fine time in the Rusty dragon, and it seems Deivan wanted to be in our good books or was trying to make up for our terrible previous day, he thoughtfully got lovely silver brooches for us. We were asked to tell our story, and just couldn’t help tease my sister a little, she is the ‘butch’ one after all ‘giggle’. Though Tammer told the story with much better flair and made us all sound quite heroic, and downplayed my sister’s gory exploits too, no doubt she is pleased about this.
Couldn’t believe our luck after this, that fine fellow Aldern, only went and invited us all out hunting, even offered to buy us all horses too, well like I was going to say no. so we twins now have matching black horses too, though the white stars on their foreheads didn’t quite match, but that is easily sorted. I have already named mine ‘Starshine’, ‘Star’ for short, not sure if sis has decided yet.
Well it was soon evening, and I had to run off to do my duties, leaving Em’s all on her own with all the men, well I tried to get back as soon as possible, she sometimes needs a little protecting, this being the case it did mean I was a little distracted during the services, and an exasperated Father sent me home. Though Father did mention that during the ruckus of the goblin attack, the previous priests remains were stolen from the graveyard, he mentioned that I was not to speak of this with others, and that the Sheriff was looking into it, though I was informed I could tell sis, after all we don’t keep secrets from each other, well we do tend to stumble upon each others diaries.
Just know I won’t sleep well tonight, a hunting trip, pastures new, unfrequented trails and paths just can’t wait.
Kiss Es.
Toilday 25th Rova 4707.
Dear Diary,
Well Sis seemed very happy and pleased with herself today, the men in our little group seemed to have something on their minds, while Aldern was fine company indeed, can’t say I am big on hunting, just happy being out in the wilds with the fresh air and new challenges. Sadly I think sis and Glori were disappointed and thought the boars would be more testing of their abilities. Hope we get a chance to go further a field soon, as bound to be other interesting places to discover and explore.
Kiss Es.
Wheelday 26th Rova 4707.
Dear Diary,
Another long day working, always seems to be endless problems to help solve, people to help, it always seems rewarding you feel like you have made a little difference in the world every day. Though I do wonder what my sis gets up to everyday, as far as I know she is ‘between jobs’ at the moment, though she does seem to have found a new hiding place for her diary.
I did get a nice present from Glorli, a fine set of studded leather armour, means I have two sets now, Grandmother got me my other set, just don’t want to hurt their feelings, but well I don’t like wearing armour, always found it restrictive and unflattering. My sister got a fantastic new starknife, which helps us look the same when we go out, which is always good for some fun.
Tammer seems more cheerful and less mopey, maybe getting out of Sandpoint for a while helped him shake loose some of his daemons, that or maybe it was some sort of act, if so I wonder what our bard is up to, will have to keep my eyes on him.
Kiss Es.
Fireday 28th Rova 4707.
Dear Diary,
Em tells me Deivan asked her out to dinner, couldn’t help but laugh when I heard, I know it was a little cruel, just struck me as funny. Though an idea did strike just then, maybe if he does want to be with sis maybe he will start to get his act together and look after himself, maybe even stop hanging out at that ‘Feedbag’ place, maybe even he could shape as a true ‘Hero’ too.
Aldern has left already, I believe sis said she would stay in touch and got his details, I think she and Aldern shared a moment, ah well I am sure there are plenty of other interesting fish out there. Well if I had been feeling in the right mood probably would have given him a farewell kiss to remember us by, not sure why I didn’t, maybe it was something in Em’s eyes, or my strange distracted mood.
Kiss Es.
Starday 29th Rova 4707.
Dear Diary,
Well you see kind of found out from the subtle posters up all over town that Deivan landed a role in the latest production at the theatre, so I thought it was time to rouse the troops and go and support our ‘Local Hero’, it was a good production, fine singing and instrumentals, and I always like seeing the myriad of colourful costumes, and our ‘Little Hero’ was quite the sight to see, proper size Hero pants too, his ensemble arrayed in fine blues, pinks and reds. Seeing up there just made me think again, he really should be a proper Hero, not some pretend one, so I took it as a sign from Desna, and decided to make it so, which as sis can attend to, normally means interesting times for all involved, what can I say I take my faith very seriously. Will get around to making plans soon, for now I will just have to sleep on it.
Pleasant dreams, Es.
Sunday 30th Rova 4707.
Dear Diary,
Another mournful tale to write in your little pages, I can only wish this is the last entry of such ill tidings. The tale once more begins in a tavern, a popular place for we two girls, The Rusty dragon, and once again we were joined by the boys, what can I say it is not unusual for the Mvashti twins to be surrounded by men. Our merriment was short lived though, as Amelie Barrett rushes up to us babe in arm and her young boy in hand, she was upset and blurted out her story, it seems not all the goblins were driven out of town, and one had been hiding out in their house and menacing her child, but had been thwarted by Petal their faithful dog, till that night, when the cunning critter maliciously slew Petal, and attacked her son, his cries had awoken his parents and they were quick to save their son and flee. Her husband had remained to root out and deal with the goblin, while Amelie came to enlist our help.
My friends rushed off while I dallied a moment, to gift the children with small charms I had blessed with Desnan prayers in the hope they would help combat their nightmares, plus a few kind words, if I knew what was to greet me later I would have given them something much stronger to banish the nightmares.
I dashed off to catch my friends up, and at the Barratt house we tentatively went in trying to be quiet, hoping we might hear something, it was just too quiet, and we feared the worst. Heading upstairs, Tammer, Sis and I eat took a door, Tammer was to be the unlucky one as he found the prostrate form of Aligast Barratt, Tammer moved in to look at body, and I followed in to check if he was still alive, heart pumping in my chest I just hoped his was as well, most of his body was lying inside a hole in the wardrobe, so I could only use a femoral artery to check his pulse, my heart sank, and I just shook my head to Em’s look. We pulled the body out of the hole to look for the hateful assailant, as soon as the body was free of the hole, the critter launched itself at Tammer, who seemed to narrowly avoid the blow, then sis succinctly vaults over Tammer and breaks the goblin, she is so going to get a reputation. I think the dwarf was really looking forward to ending that goblin too.
Of course it wasn’t long before we had all the gang there, and then we saw that the goblin had been famished and had been feeding on Amelie’s late husband, no a pretty sight, and one I wanted to spare everyone I knew, I grabbed sheets to cover both Husband and Petal. I know Deivan had excused himself, he had gone quite pale, I felt kind of ashamed that this horrific scene did not turn my stomach, but I guess I had desensitised during the years of tending wounds and diseases. Though my heart was already heavy, and I still knew it would fall to me to tell his now Widow Amelie. Tammer went off to seek the watch and attend to the bodies, while I sought the relatives, with every step I took towards the Rusty dragon so my dread and misery increased.
I slipped in to tavern, and tried not to be noticed, asking a barmaid if they could possibly tell Ameiko I needed a quick word, I must say she was so understanding and helpful, she said she would happily entertain the children in the back so I could speak to Amelie privately. Amelie saw me before I was that close, and I guess my face gave it away, not knowing what to do I launched myself into a hug, supporting her, and gently said ‘I’m sorry, I have some awful news…’ she just broke down, I was able to guide her to a bench , as we hugged and talked, it was all I could do not to cry myself, but I knew this would not help her, I had to be strong, I know I talked a lot, most of what I said I do not recall, I know I helped a little but not enough, in time Father was there and he was able to calm her down. I just wish I had know the right words to say, if there were any, being a priest is a tough job.
I was rejoined by my friends and we all just sat around a table and nursed our drinks, Ameiko brought us a fine decanter of whiskey to drown our sorrows, though I found the heartfelt hug with my sis and Ameiko more heartwarming. Our friends wandered off home, Tammer first, quickly followed by Glorli, and then Deivan sort of well passed out. Sort of fell to sis and I to arrange for somewhere for him to sleep, though she didn’t welcome the idea of taking home with us, Ameiko was happy to let us have a room, Sis le me get him ready for bed, got him all tucked in nicely, a small candy and a big glass of water for the morning hangover, and I laid in the bed briefly to grant a Desnan blessing to banish bad dreams, plus scrawled a quick name tag ‘Hero’ to put on his door. Shutting the door quietly I wandered off home, thinking how it might look when he awoke in the morning, and couldn’t help but suppress a little giggle, I am wicked sometimes but always with the best of intentions.
Slightly depressed, Naughty but still Nice too, Es.
Moonday 1st Lamashan 4707.
Dear Diary,
Work up nice and early, and did the rounds with sis, to make sure everyone was feeling ok, took the chance to order some Hero pants too. When visiting Tammer we discovered he had been keeping it a secret that the goblin had stabbed him, think I may have over reacted when I heard this, as I tore him off a strip, while healing him with a quick prayer. He defended himself by saying he was trying to be macho, I was so angry, refer to be people to be healthy, rather than all manly, kind of threatened him with character assassination in the female world, I may have gone too far, but oh well I do tend to speak and act before I think.
Glorli worried me too, as he talked about his recurring nightmare he has been having, the details were a little too dwarven for me, but it boiled down to some clasp on some armour he was crafting, just wouldn’t work right and it was causing him some distress. Must say this will end up giving me nightmares, offered some ideas, but well I am no craft lady so I don’t think I helped much, but I will keep giving him suggestions everyday till he sleeps better.
Deivan seemed worse for wear when we met him in the Tavern, and I think Ameiko had been teasing a little over his performance the previous night. He seemed happy enough to see us, possibly as then Ameiko had us to talk to as well, or possibly because Sis was there. I will tease her later about that one. Well at least you my little diary can remind to at least.
Troubled Es.
Toilday 2nd Lamashan 4707.
Our little intrepid group of would be Heroes were invited to meet with the Major today, seems the Sheriff if leading a group out to fight the goblin menace, we got to meet a lovely Elven lady (Shaylu or something like that I believe) as well, who told us all about the goblin race and the local tribes, and the ‘persona non gratis’. Oddly we all ended up in a nice Tavern, The Rusty Dragon, oh yes and they have two wonderful new barmaids working there too, yep you guessed it, The Mvashti’s ‘Tah-dad’, got to introduce Shaylu to Ameiko’s fire whiskey too, yay me.
Merry Hugs Es.
Oh sweet! Kayos got you to do it huh? Awesome. Don't be weirded out be we think the competing twin angle should be a very intertaining way for most of us to experience our first immersive RotRL journal.
*Goes to top and starts reading* Be back down here soon.
Very very nice Esme....
I can't wait to see these diaries going back and forth from now on.
And here I thought something 'bad' happened with Hero-boy.
Now, by Hero-pants....what exactly do you mean? Skin tight ones with a copious codpiece? Thats what I keep picturing...something out of the old Romeo and Juliet movie. Anyway...
I am really liking the similarities and the differences between the two of you that are going on. Its going to make a very interesting ride.
|
|
Hello, sorry for being sooooo slow to respond.
I am glad you like our little diary, I am hoping for lots more interplay, and it is always amusing to read two different versions of a story, you kind of get to understand the storytellers drives and goals a little more.
Ok, onto the famous, or should I say infamous 'Hero' pants, in actual fact they are like the English 17th century breaches, just these are made from a fine light fabric, and lots of it, they are heroic in proportions, and of course would look silly on anyone else but a True hero.
The majority of the fabric is all gathered around the thighs, as they are drawn in either just above or blow the knee, depending on how high a boots the 'hero' is wearing.
I do hope this conjures up some interesting pictures in your mind, as it definitely did for our little group, plus for Tubby we did make these pants truly adjustable too.
^_^
I can't wait for more of the twins.
Bump bump bump!
*poke!* ... *prod* .. *poke poke prod prod*
...*gets itchy typing fingers* Don't make Em write Es' diary for her!
Just wanted to throw some kudos for the great journal - it's making for an interesting read from the two sisters. If you need any encouragement...please keep it going...it's great!
Toilday 2nd Lamashan 4707
Oh Dearest of Diaries,
Our little intrepid group of would be Heroes were invited to meet with the Major today, seems the Sheriff if leading a group out to fight the goblin menace, we got to meet a lovely Elven lady (Shaylu or something like that I believe) as well, who told us all about the goblin race and the local tribes, and the ‘persona non gratis’. Oddly we all ended up in a nice Tavern, The Rusty Dragon, oh yes and they have two wonderful new barmaids working there too, yep you guessed it, The Mvashti’s ‘Tah-dad’, got to introduce Shaylu to Ameiko’s fire whiskey too, yay me.
Merry Hugs Es.
Wheelday 3rd Lamashan 4707
Oh Poor Diary of mine,
I think I had a restful nights sleep, so hard to remember back that far now, I know early on in the morning we were disturbed By Ameiko’s maid, she brought us a note, that Ameiko had left behind after she had run off to help her sister, but I am getting ahead of myself. The maid had to translate the note for us, seems Ameiko has this brother who she had a little falling out with some time back, and well he was back in town and possibly causing problems, and may even have been linked to the Goblins, so since Ameiko’s sis Tsuto and her didn’t want their family blamed, they decided to go and confront the seemingly ‘Evil’ brother. That was some time last night, but she still wasn’t back, and this is where sis and I got pulled into it. Though would have happily leapt in to help out Ameiko our new friend, and may I say esteemed employer as well.
Ah, a note from the mysterious brother, always intriguing and well like , my curious nature was going to let that one by, so we kind of plunged headlong into this one, the note said something about Ameiko going to meet her brother at the glassworks, so that was where we went. I ended up being with Hero and Gory, while sis had Tammer, now I was sure she was meant to be spending more time with Deivan after their little liaison, but oh well, guess things got mixed up in the chase. Well the door was found was fo course locked, and well trying to be less conspicuous, I allowed us illustrious rogue an opportunity to prove himself useful, though oddly he seemed to draw more attention to himself as a kindly old lady cam round the corner and started to ask us what we were doing, I started to explain how we were helping out our employer, and how what we were doing could be misconstrued.
This was interrupted by a crash, which I supposed was my sis making her covert entry, meanwhile we had also managed to get the door open as well, and were entering the dimly lit place, Glorli and Deivan entered the main door, while I quickly checked the other ways, I heard fighting from ahead and decided to let the boys deal with, that is if my sis left any for them. I had just opened a door to a long corridor when a nasty little goblin came running right for me, and kept running and slipped right through my open legs as I stared aghast at it, looking back, I really do think I skipped way too many combat classes, my sis and I are just so different these days, makes me a little sad too but oh well it is who we are, and I just like fun stories and tales more I guess.
My colleagues managed to catch up to that goblin and he didn’t last long I can say. They didn’t mention what was in the large backroom, just imagined more goblin nastiness so decided not to ask. This left one little stairway to the basement for us to explore, well we found two doors a little way in and decided that sis and I would take one each, opening them at the same time, mine seemed a little dark within, as I peered in and my eyes started to become adjusted, wham, a fist out of nowhere smacks me straight in the face, my hands flew to my face as I just fell back onto rump and just sat there stunned. My mind a blur trying to process the information, I was seeing, guess I had found the mysterious brother, not so intriguing now, just damn right rude and horrible, was hoping he wasn’t involved with the goblins, but after feeling the cold hard reality of his fist, hard to think of him as an innocent. When I really came to and had managed to get upright once more, Sis had laid him out, and Deivan was eyeing up his shinies I am sure. Just to rub salt into MY wounds, I kind of had to check on him to make sure he wouldn’t die, all I can say is, he should thank his lucky stars, that I followed Desna and her teachings.
We found the lovely Ami, and got to release her, and I was happy to check her wounds and ease her suffering, Em and I took her back to the Dragon, so she was back in familiar surroundings before we could speak of Tsuto to her, leaving the boys to sort out our captive, and clean up the place.
I was also to learn at this point that Ami’s Father had been killed, and silently thanked the stars that I had not had to carry the burden of telling someone else that they had lost a loved one, perhaps now my Sis might understand why I decided to avoid my combat classes, and understand just hard this part of my duties can be, sadly the life of a Desnan is not all party games and starlit dances, though there are a few.
Having given sad tiding, sis talked of her tunnel and after a brief time we were reunited with the boys’ and off a exploring we went once more, like we were going to leave a strange dark tunnel all alone like that.
Down that damnable tunnel, oh my what an awful place misshapen things, and all of covered in bruises scraps and cuts in no time, I spent nearly the whole time on edge, my nerves were frayed, and forever worrying about my reckless sis, especially when she met the monstrous Coruvus, and his multiple arms and legs sprouting from .. every which way.. from his contorted deformed form. After this just wanted to keep Em safe, I had seen one of the only people I actually care about crumple into a heap, and with my nerves as they were I was not in good way, so well maybe I became a little protective I think that is understandable in the circumstances, plus my link was Desna was growing faint, as I had bestowed her blessings so much this day. I think this was the moment when I started feeling a little frail, not as strong as my Sis, and even she had fell, so now I really did feel a little lost. I do so hope Em never finds my diary.
There was still more to explore after this, though I do think we were a little more careful from now on, a strange red statue, a funny floaty room, and eventually a reviled Temple of Lamashtu, which explained so many of the things that we had found down here. It was tended by a strange little gnarled humanoid in what was once fancy clothes (Tammer told us later it was quasit or such like). This was a cunning but mad little critter, which was very resilient as well as agile, I let fly my trusty starknife only to see it clatter to the ground way beyond the target, maybe one day I will get the knack of these things. Tammer was the hero of the day, managed to lasso and wrap the nasty beast up in his scarves, before sis halted its struggles with a well placed stamp.
Now you think we would have saved the day and bee able to rest a bit now, maybe even have a little drink, but oh no. Tammer had seen the strange little creature cut itself and let blood enter the dark pool which was a centre point in the temple, so he thinks, “ooh I will try that too� and ends up cutting himself too, I mean what is it with Tammer and leaking his life blood everywhere, bah boys, but I have learnt I do need a big bag of bandages just for him. To make matters worse this summoned more strange big teeth beasties, which luckily we made short work of, and eventually the pool stayed silent, and seemed drained.
Oh after a day like this I so wanted to just curl up near the fire in the Dragon, and just DRINK, that whole drunken oblivion was really looking attractive back then. Though a goodnight rest would have been much more sensible especially for Em, but since when have we Mvashti been sensible.
As I finally get a few moments to write this, and admittedly it is the morning after, and praise Desna for another morning free of hangovers, but well I digress, it was along day, a horrible day, and looking back I would quite happily try and forget that day too. Oh the Goddess, fate and the stars have really cooked something up for me, I thought I would just end up matchmaking my Sis to someone, and organising nice little festivals, in some ways I am glad life is more interesting, and well with us being Mvashti, our lives were destined to never be boring.
~Es.
Oathday 4th Lamashan
To my Esteemed Diary and confidant,
Now I know some days att eh Church were long, but this day beat them all, I think most Vigils which are used as punishments are shorter and less gruelling than this day was. Can‘t say the day started all that well anyway, almost starting to note a theme to my life. Hmmph. Well you see Tammer painstaking translated Tsuto’s little diary, I vaguely remember seeing some pictures of Nualia with daemon bits over his shoulder or Sis’ when they were looking at it, anyway it seems she is up at Thistletop planning something, so being the “Heroes of Sandpoint� we decided we would go and nip it the bud, well this so called planned attack that is. Now there were quite a few things we needed to get sorted before this could happen though,, Talk to the church, talk to Tsuto, find out more about the caverns and the strange symbols, gather supplies, and get to Thistletop. Emyralda got it into her head, and was being stubborn about having to visit Tsuto and “have words� with him, can’t say I liked the look in her eyes as she said this, and begrudgingly gave into her, but did get her to agree we both needed to be there.
Going to the see Father Zanthus was my first priority as I wanted to make sure he was aware there was an awful evil temple of Lamashtu under the city and that it needed to cleansed as soon as, just couldn’t rest easy leaving a town completely unknowing of a slumbering evil beneath it, if we were going to Thistletop, I wanted someone to take action in our stead. I do wonder if our news did disturb him just a little too much though, as that nice little smile of his did falter a little too long for my liking, and well he was a dear friend and tutor to me and I didn’t like to cause him undue stress, worry and strife. Throughout the many years he guided me, he had always been a sweetie, and also maybe allowed me, some leeway in my “church studies� too.
So then it was onto the pre lunch chat with Tsuto, this was ill fated from the onset, we arrived too late, it seems he had hung himself in the night, just knew Em, was cursing me for not coming earlier, kind of surprised she didn’t say something to that effect though. The watchman that was on duty, was also the one that had found the body and seemed still in shock, wish a glance at Sis, we went in for the Mvashti twin hug manoeuvre, but even this didn’t lift his spirits, was hoping this might distract him enough, but sadly no, we promised him drinks later at the Dragon and really did hope he could manage to meet us there. Bless him he looked so small and vulnerable, I am almost felt myself slipping into a motherly like response, and quickly caught myself. We left the watch house in low spirits ourselves.
Still too early for lunch we popped into see Mr Quink, the towns resident scholar, kind of hoping he might be able to shed some light. Though I think my Sis and I were actually on the same page as we entered Mr Quink stuffy little place, as I am sure we both mentioned Grandmother to him, well they would be good for each other, similar interests, and well comparable ages, though I think my enthusiasm, our lack of success at the watch house, and my poor rest kind of worked against me, my tongue kind of got away from me, and took a while to reign it in. Though I still think it may work, probably best to get Grandma to approach him anyway, she is such a strong woman anyway. Well since this has failed abysmally I moved onto the important research type stuff and well conversation just flowed so much easier then, ventured some ideas and theories I had had when down there, and interestingly enough found out the 7 pointed star symbol was ancient.
Returning Home for lunch, was had a nice little repast, which I think I got lumbered making, though I forget Em’s excuse this time. We had a nice chat with Grandma, and she said the symbol was wrong, almost as though it was unnatural kind of got us thinking of the 7 cardinal sins, especially after remembering all those angry monsters we had met beneath the town. Though we did talk of the schools of magic and how the divination school had been dropped as a school in ancient history, plus we talked of the 7 virtues, but still deep down thought the sins were a more likely explanation.
With all these musing in our heads, we headed off to see Tammer, it took us such an age to find the library in the building, just shows how often we actually went there, but admittedly we got more interesting answers from asking Grandma when we were little, rather than silly dusty old books, that made us sneeze. My nose itches just thinking of them. We found the bard hard at work pouring over books and truly lost to them, well I suppose each to their own. It seems he was hoping the 7 pointed star was to do with the schools of magic too, we told him our theories as well as our sad news.
The next duty that fell again to us I was not looking forward to, going to see Ameiko to give her more bad news. It turned out the watch had already been and given her the bad tiding, she seemed to have taken it well, I guess they had drifted apart and were a little estranged by now, but even so I guess it still hurt. We offered our help and to be there for her for whatever she needs, and of course hugs too.
We also checked in with Deivan who had actually managed a full day working at the fish market, and Glorli who had got quite a lot of work done due to no interruptions from strange girls. Teehee.
Soooo, the best part of the day, the Pub, at last a time to relax, the nice but shaken watchman did come and see us and we were true to our promise, plus there were more hugs, well hello we are the Mvashti twins we have traditions to uphold too. Deivan turned up later too, and well you could tell where he had been working, well if you got close to him you could, silly boy. Not sure what he said, but he did seem to inflame sis, I did hear the Scarnetti’s mentioned which got my eyebrow to raise, but I quickly returned to the crowd of watchman that were there.
It was such a nice relaxing evening, almost like evening of old. I was looking forward to my nice warm bed, and that dreamfeast awaiting me, Praise Desna and may she bless everyone with sweet dreams.
~Blessed Es
Toilday 9th Lamashan 4707
Dear Diary,
Oh how I have missed you so, it is sometimes comforting to just let your thoughts pour out onto paper. Sorry I had to leave you behind, but there just wasn’t room in my little bag, though must admit you were better off staying here, such a nasty place. We travelled for quite a way, and it was hard to get our bearings at some points and even my Desnan senses failed me at times, but eventually we arrived, Thistletop at last. Just seeing it fills you with a little dread, but our little group was determined to save our town, and we were kind of full of heroic bravery back then, but sadly this was not to last. So I hope I manage to get most of the mad adventure down right.
We made it to this briar maze like thing, and that was our first big obstacle, Deivan was able to scout ahead and find many hidden doors, but this did lead to him being in the front and open to ambushes and attacks, he also seemed quite out of his element fighting in enclosed spaces and spent quite a fair amount of time pulling himself off of thorns. With a few skirmishes behind us my healing arts were already quite depleted, and it seems Tammer had also learned a little of the art too, was finding I felt a little like a 5th wheel, since I never really contributed in any of the fighting. I kept myself out of harms way, and provided healing when I could. We continued on through this maze and were ambushed by a goblin nature priest, probably should call him a druid but was never going to put in the same basket as Grandma, he was horrible just appearing out of the thorns, throwing his hand held balls of fire at us and then retreating back into the thorns, his attacks could just come from any direction, he even took to using a firesword on Sis too, and there was so little I could do to prevent it, luckily I still had a little healing left. I don’t know what we would have done during this weekend if Desna had not been with me, as well as Glorli’s faith and Tammer’s art.
Since we were in poor shape by now, with nearly all of us covered in bruises and scraps, we decided to rest, even though sis was being stubborn and wanting to continue, she is so reckless these days. As it was, she was up early out exploring with Deivan, while the rest of us attended to prayers and other preparations for the day. Sis mentioned something about a fish like beast, and I would hear Deivan mention “scary fish” later on, well I think that is what he mumbled.
Coming out of the maze, we found to reach Thistletop proper we had to go across a rickety rope bridge, I decided to go first as I was quick, agile and the lightest, plus I beat sister to it, think she was distracted, of course it collapsed stranding me on the other side, with a goblin welcoming party, it wasn’t long till my friends had got themselves across, and Glorli was really in his element fighting off a small horde of them single handed, I pretty much just defended myself and tried to stay alive, it is so good to have friends and a scary brutal sis too (Note To Sis (NTS)joking Sis, if you happen to be reading this, you know I like pulling your levers).
So many goblins in this place, and we ended up defeating so many, though Deivan went over the edge, worrying all of us, saying all goblins must die, women, and children, all must be put to the sword. We also found that seems the goblins were having problems keeping their pickles safe, and had a secret pickle eater loose, I wonder if they only came out at midnight, never knew goblins were so in love with pickles, who would have known. Sis found a horse too, taken to calling it Misty, she has claimed it as her won already, grows attached to things so quickly, she founda blue gown too, but I don’t think anyone else knows she has it, only caught a blue flash of colour as it disappeared into her bag, hmm I don’t know.
We eventually found the leader, he was putting on a show with his pet magic users using an illusion to show the attack on Sandpoint, Tammer stepped in and started to tell the story of how it actually happened, making everyone feel renewed and invigorated, I watched from the doorway, ready to step in and aid my friends should one falter. The leader was named Ripnugget as I found out at later, Sis has a list og goblin heroes to defeat, this was her second one I believe, well I know I gave the game away that we defeat him, but well you knew we would after all, I am here writing this aren’t I. He was annoying and frustrated my Sis a lot of he had a riding mount in the form of a giant lizard that could run up the walls, so avoiding Em’s retribution. He was brought down in the end though.
Well now that was the top bit done, and then we had under the goblin lair to go, which was more for the Humans that Nualia had brought in. found some strange octopus or squid thing, sure Grandma had mentioned once, but my memory fails me now, if she reads this I just know I will get a lecture. Another disgusting Lamashtu temple and guardian was found and then the standard evil torture chamber as befitting all good Evil gang leaders.
Then we found Lyri, someone who was actually happy to just talk rather than try and blow us up, set us alight or stab us, it was so refreshing. An intelligent wizardly scholar with some odd views, but here mainly for research, and paid to do a job, which had nothing t do with the attack on Sandpoint, was quite happy to let her go, as long as she didn’t make trouble for us, but Glorli insisted she be taken back for justice. I think jus by being here the town would happily convict her and true justice would not be done, she would just be someone they could all blame, and then go back to their normal lives, she was only doing a job, she may have been unwise to take it in the first place, but that is not a crime in of itself. So Glorli and Deivan were going to take Lyr to the cells we had seen earlier near the torture chamber. Hmm Dwarves are the MOST stubborn unyielding people I have ever met, it like trying to talk a rock into moving.
We left them to it, Sis, Tammer and I went off to continue exploring, and “oddly” was didn’t hear Glorli or Deivan slump, to the floor or the quiet running footsteps that occurred moments after. From an unpleasant discussion, we opened a door right onto a disturbing scene, my mind immediately fled to a “happy place”, and I only vaguely remember details, though there is definitely Tammer’s droning voice as background noise. There were definitely some goblin females, and a Bugbear wearing rings, who I know Sis dealt with, while I defended myself against the goblin women, yes most definitely women.
In another room we met Orik, a mercenary who really had just taken the wrong contract, he did seem to be the unlucky sort, hopefully meeting us his luck will turn around a little, may Desna make clear his path. He seemed most eager to follow Lyri, guess he liked her a lot, ah Goddess speed to him.
A few more rooms to explore, found the humans rooms, nicely tidy and looked after, and Nualia’s room had a gorgeous king size collapsible bed, the minute I saw it I knew it was mine, Sis can have her Horse and gown , this one was mine. As it turns out I think she is going to make me share it, but deep down I know it is really mine. It was love at first sight, she can’t deny fate and Desna’s will. That was so coming home with us, no matter what we had to do.
With that done, we still had another level to go, and we still hadn’t found the big daemon thing, or Nualia, though I had some spells in reserve for her. Heading intot he really old parts of this place, we found more devious traps, and more by luck than design managed to avoid their nasty effects though they warned other we were coming, Nualia was ready for us, luckily I was filled with Desna’s light, and was lightly glowing at the time, concentrating the light inot bolts I was able to defeat the horrible hound things Nualia had with her, and cause Nualia herself to some pain. She has a wicked looking sword, and was able to overcome my Sis, I saw her collapse again, pulling at my heartstrings again, why I am always the one that has to suffer like this, watching her get beaten and cut, and knowing how little I can do, you feel so helpless knowing that all you want to do is rush to their side and help them, but understanding that if you do that your life will be forfeit too. I will berate my Sis till I am blue in the face for rushing and being reckless but she never learns.
Sis was still breathing it was ok, I took a steadying, and cast forth Desna’s spiritual weapon, between Tammer, Desna’s weapon and I we were able to defeat her. Collecting my thought I started towards my Sis, to heal her, but Tammer was already there his lips on my sister giving the kiss of life, so that’s how his “art” works is it, wonder if he has to d that to boys too, must remember to ask. Plus I guess Deivan has competition. Though to be honest I normally found healing magic’s to be better when applied to the injured area, ahh well bards and their romantic ideas, guess you can read too many books.
(NTS, by the way, remember I was always the one that was good at languages, I have to decipher all those old teachings of Desna after all, Plus I do feel it is a very good idea to record your real thoughts, less you forget them or they become twisted or distorted)
We had a little more exploring to do, and found an altar dedicated to money or something like “Greed” maybe, big fiery room and a giant hermit crab with a giant size helmet for a shall, and a crypt guarded by shadows that sis had to rescue Deivan from, plus I believe she took a blow from one of them for him, and so in her drained state proceeded to slap him for being so stupid. Though Deivan’s brushes with death were not over, on the way out, we went to the scary fish hole, and luring it out with pickles, Tammer was able to tell us it was a Bunyip and that they had a scary amount of teeth, Deivan decided to give the rest of the pickles to the beast, and promptly tried to follow the barrel into the hole when he overbalanced, luckily Sis saved him again wrenching her shoulder, yet another excuse for her to ask for massages.
We had a lot to talk about on the way home including that Deivan has decided to stay in Sandpoint and join the watch, and hence stop adventuring, as he feels he is not quite cut out for it, so goes our big plans for the Big Hero, but at least he will always be a local Hero, and one that is actually around. Do hope we didn’t forget to do something at Thistletop though.
Drained but Alive, Es.
Fireday 12th Lamashan 4707
Dear Diary,
We are back and its market day tomorrow, and I am so going to shop, shop till I drop, plus we have to try and get rid of all the various bits and pieces we found, and additionally I don’t like having lots of loose change, it clinks a lot and slows me down, though I have a few ideas of some things I need. Well you see I have this fine bed, while Sis got the dress, and well I don’t really want to leave that nice bed behind, so I am determined to get myself a nice wagon/caravan, so I can take it everywhere, plus we Varisians do like to travel in style when we can, gives me a chance to practise my painting too. Now really should think of general decorations, lots of bright colours, though some deep blues and star patterns would be very Desnan, and be great in the bedroom, inspire sweet dreams too, ok I so need to do that now, and in the main room, warm colours, comfortable furniture and many cushions. Some little bells, wind chimes and a pet Thrush in a lovely little bronze cage would be nice too, I am so going to be busy at the market tomorrow, hope they have the nice throws they had last year, oh yes and those fine silks too, I wonder if I can bells shaped like butterflies. On another note I really should grab a healers bag, some more scarves, and some nice new bangles, ooo and jewellery.
Em wasn’t a happy bunny this morning, she was quite the sight, hair all in disarray and fuming about missing some beads, I know the ones she meant, some nice little green and blue ones, I know I helped pick some of them out at the market years ago. Though sadly I couldn’t remember how many she had bought, plus she put her hairbrush away somewhere and forgot it, probably dropped it again and it has disappeared under the wardrobe, Was quite happy for her to borrow mine, but this didn’t seem to placate her, well at least she would be well groomed like usual. I even offered to do her hair for her, but I think she needed some alone time, to cope with her loss, first losing Deivan and then her beads and her hairbrush.
So, Deivan and Tammer both have a birthday on the 18th, I think Sis has an idea of what to get Deivan, though she seems worried we won’t have enough money, which is worrying, which means I think it falls to me to try and think of something for Tammer. Well he likes his scarves, but I think he has a goodly number of them already, he is not badly turned out, so doesn’t need new clothes, really only likes his books and studies, but really have no idea where to start if I wanted to get him a book he would want. He is not your typical bard with all the singing and music and such so that’s those ideas out of the window, maybe something that is useful on his travels, hmm yes, a little sling bag with a waterproof journal, and a modified scribes box, with inks, quills and charcoal and things, yes that should work, will check things out at the market.
Kiss Es
Starday 13th Lamashan 4707
Oh my bestest friend, oh Diary of mine,
I woke up in such a great mood, having had a fine feast in my dream, sorted Em one too, so we could get an early start. At last Market day had come, time to sell stuff, not so much fun, and buy stuff woohooo. Now I am not materialistic, I just like a few pieces of nice jewellery and well I so want a caravan now, dreamed most of the night of it, and was so full of ideas this morning, discussed the with Sis all the way to the market, and during most of the selling too, well Sis did a lot of the actual bargaining while, I created stories and told tales of the items, and gave them a little history and sentimental value, seemed to do the trick too, as we seemed to amounting quite a fair sum of coin. Then it all changed as we started to actually buy stuff, after commissioning our caravan from a vendor that Grandma recommended, the Mvashti’s share of the treasure was dented a little, and was severely depleted once we hit the market properly looking for furnishings, as we at least had the rough measurements now, I am surprised we didn’t have to make several trips, but those boys at the market can be so accommodating sometimes, offering to deliver it later to our home, such sweeties. Though I did laugh when Sis and I were trying to sell the manacles and then just looked at each other and both said we should just attach them to the end of our new bed, the boys’ faces were a picture. Speaking of pictures, we bought lots of paints and various colours too, so we could decorate our new caravan, but still not sure exactly what to do, still thinking a nice natural scene like a woodland, with small birds and mammals, and then a starlit night above the canopy of the forest, but then I do like my dark blues and lustrous greens.
I got Tammer’s present all sorted, and Sis got Deivan’s put by for us, so seems we had a good productive day, and all was sorted for our new adventures, just a few more arrangements to be made for the birthday. Sis mentioned that maybe we want a few more girls at the party, and thought maybe I could bring some. You see we Mvashti, seem to know a lot of men, but we needed to invite a few women other than us, my priestly duties did mean I knew some interesting people, plus I got on well with a number of nice ladies at the brothel too, so I invited who I could, and it should make for a mixed and interesting group of people if nothing else, I hope it goes ok. Plus of course I invited members of the watch that were off duty and the students of the school, and our old classmates of course, though it was hard for Sis and I to recall them all, we didn’t go to “all” of the lessons shall we say.
It was night off for me, from Priestly things, but It did mean time to work at the Dragon, though it never really seemed like work, always seemed to have so much fun. It was a relaxed night really, and during a lull, thought I would discuss the ides of uniforms with my co workers, plus then people would actually know when we were actually working the bar, and we wouldn’t be disturbed during our free time, not that we don’t mind helping out Ami if she is pushed. Then I mentioned maybe just having aprons, the patrons interest had already been piqued by the uniform discussion, they were now enrapt, especially the males, who I sure thought I meant wearing “only” an apron, bah as if, without even a flush in my cheeks, I just rolled my eyes at them, and continued to serve.
Well there is a new arrival in town, and one very hard to miss; i) he is Shoanti from the Axe clan, ii) quite loud, iii) Massive man, he towers over everyone, just feel so small and fragile next to him, got a much better look at him when we did our usual dance on the bar, plus did mean I wouldn’t get a crick in my neck from having to look up so much. We must have done something right tonight as got a great response from our patrons, and no complains of spilled drinks or such, either our dancing has improved, or they were still imagining uniforms or aprons on us. If it carries on like this, Ami may have to concede and give us a pay rise. Not that we earn much as we tend to drink most of it away so it just about covers our own bar tabs.
Tammer told the story of the Goblin attack once more, probably for the new comers benefit, and to make Sis feels better, she likes the way it makes her feel slightly more graceful heroine, always like to remind her of her brain on her foot comment from that night though, it is good to tease her, and she pulls the funniest faces sometimes. Got to hear some of the Shoanti’s tales too from his homeland, turns out he is called Tanrov, Shoanti seem interesting and their language is interesting, still glad I am a Varisian though, their tribes seem a little too harsh for me, but maybe that is just how the men are brought up, I will have to ask a Shoanti woman when I meet one.
We checked with Ami is everything was ok for the 18th, and I had already a discount at the bar in the brothel, for the regulars of the Dragon if they did want to escape the party, well in my defence, I didn’t know any of the other tavern owners well enough to try and organise a discount at their establishments, so just used what I had.
Shopping :) Es.
Moonday 15th Lamashan 4707
Dear Diary,
Ahh well, it is nice to be back and all, and it never takes too long to get settled again, and start falling into your old routines, must admit I didn’t expect quite as much cleaning duties as I was lumbered with, probably something to do with humility lessons or suchlike, still it is nice to explore the temple a little, some of the rooms are so rarely used. Not the same as exploring some long abandoned temple though, much less thrills and of course less danger.
Sis has been complaining she can’t find her hairbrush again, I worry if she is starting to misplace things now, what will she be like, when she gets old, hmm best keep this quiet don’t won’t to damage her chances of a nice match. Ah wonder if she dropped it on the way back from Thistletop, must remember to pray for one of those nice locating spells, or mind reading, so I can find out if Em remembers where she last had it.
Hugs Es.
18th Oathday Lamashan 4707
Dear Diary,
Party day at last, think we got everything sorted, even managed to find time to create a little treasure hunt for both of them, with Tammer’s being translated in Minkai to make it a challenge for him, and with Deivan’s we just tried t keep it simple, so he wouldn’t get lost, plus I didn’t want to make Elissia wait too long for him at the Pixie, she is well thought of by many patrons of that establishment. She makes a fine warm beverage too. The image of her silhouetted in a doorway in a revealing gown, carrying a huge repeating crossbow, is quite hard to shake from my mind, and well I just know Deivan will enjoy them both, though I hope he gives each the time and respect they deserve.
I am sure Tammer will like his thoughtful and useful gift too, he doesn’t strike me as a man who tends to like silly little presents and prefers more practical things, I think Sis has been worrying if the gift is good enough, wonder if that has anything to do with that kiss, I don’t know one kiss and she is all flustered, she so needs to travel more… ah thoughts of our caravan, happy place :).
Now I thought the party went very well, all the items on my internal checklist were ticked, Alcohol in large supply, various pretty girls, friends of the birthday boys present, presents present, two lovely, well groomed, hardworking Mvashti hostesses (we so need a pay rise for these extra duties), regular patrons given discounts at the Pixie so not inconvenienced, and of course the Birthday boys’ themselves, all in all I think all was accounted for, we even had the Tammer’s twin brother turn up to which was a bonus, though he was his normal deep brooding self, which seemed quite infectious too, as Tammer mirrored his twin’s hard set features and dark look for a while. It probably is for best that those two don’t see too much of each other generally, just imagine both of them mopping around all day, and to think Sis entertained the notion of the Mvashti’s being coupled to those two, in her earlier years, I do hope she doesn’t start entertaining that idea again, as I am sure she will partner me with the brooding one, and really don’t see us getting on all that well.
Oh well, time to sleep and dream of a gorgeous breakfast and no hangover,
Snuggles Es.
Moonday 22nd Lamashan
Oh my Dear Diary,
I am now starting to think we are cursed, ever since we kind of saved the town, we are now drawn into the most terrible things, Toady again we were called forth to see the Sheriff. It seems that last night there was a most heinous and grisly murder up at the sawmill, Sandpoint hasn’t had anything like this since Chopper, and I was really hoping this wasn’t going to lead down that road. Added to this apparently at the scene a note was left that was meant for my Sis, though she was quite secretive about all this.
It seems that Ivor Thorn had the misfortune of finding his workmate Harker and Katrine Vinder ritually murdered. Harker had been skinned, his jaw removed and that terrible 7 pointed star engraved into him, while poor Katrine had thrown into the wood saw, and there was such a mess, this was a scene I was not soon to forget, I can only pray for the blessing of Desna to make my night rest free from these visions. Unfortunately for me, as one of the resident healers of Sandpoint, it fell to me to examine the bodies a whole lot closer, while my Sis was allowed to leave early with Tammer. Glorli was sure he would find some clue, and meticulously started going over the murder scene. I was able to find out that the assailant was very strong, likely undead, and very scary.
Funnily enough I want to keep many of the details of this long and terrible day quite short and concise lest I remind myself of these terrible times when I am much older. Sometimes I think some things are best forgotten. We talked to Quink, and found out that horrible star is called the Shederon, and long ago used to stand for the 7 virtues but it got corrupted and twisted, as the Thelosian empire fell from grace and prominence. Must admit after leaving this place and meeting up with the others, we started discussing rather nasty scenarios about why someone or a cult would want with my Sister, suggesting maybe as a replacement for Nualia, and the awful Lamashtu birthings. I think we may have been a little outspoken here and drawn attention to ourselves, and of course caused a little distress, luckily Tammer was able to cover up this indiscretion.
This did of course make it quite easy for the Sheriff to locate our little group, and let us know even more grisly details. Now it turns out this wasn’t the first set of murders, that occurred down in a barn in Cougar Creek, three men conmen had been ritually killed like Harker. Though one did actually survive, their bodyguard, a Varisian by the name of Savilla, though when he was found wandering the roads, his mind was gone, so for his and others safety he was sent to the Saintly Haven of Respite. Another latter had been left here as well, though not addressed to anyone this time, this was given to Tammer and that was the last I ever saw of that. I was starting to get the feeling of being left out in the cold now, I know something was going on, I knew it involved my sister, but Tammer and her were keeping quiet. I even promised I wouldn’t read her diary for at least a week too, thought it best to be good and swore by the Goddess too. Though I was saddened Sis felt she couldn’t talk about it, I even have total strangers tell me their woes when in the Church too. No doubt I shall tease her some other day about it, just so she knows I worry and hurt too.
So, as you can probably guess, off we went to the Haven, the trip was “interesting” I didn’t get a chance to really talk to Sis, as Tanrov felt he wanted to know all about Desna, and tell us of his strange tribal customs, enlightening and disturbing at the same time, though it explained much about the man. I must say that places like the Haven I always find so very depressing, and I am always glad to leave them, and always offer prayers to Desna that I will be free of such places. Had to convince the surly Doctor to let us in to see Savilla, but at least we had the Sheriff’s blessing in this.
Savilla looked truly awful, so pale and drawn, I moved in and Glorli moved in more to keep me safe I think, my unofficial protector, Bless him. He seemed to be in an advanced stage of a disease, and then it clicked it was Ghoulfever, it explained so much. With this he seemed to slump and the death rattle escaped his lips, moments later he sat up once more, and quite clearly addressing me, made a pronouncement from his master, A promise to stop the harvest, if I went to the misgivings and joined his master’s Pack, standing stunned, he leapt to the attack, scoring quite painful blows upon me, just great I get attacked because they think I am Em. Oddly at this point, strange thoughts filter through your mind, mine was being different is a good thing, time to do my hair in a new style from now on. Luckily this poor creature was easily dealt with quickly, and after Tammer said he knew of a place named Misgiving’s, and alter we were to learn it was also known as the Foxglove manor, which led us to think that Aldern may be involved in this Pack in some way, and after all he was a Lord, so master would be an appropriate term.
We made our way back to town, and the Sheriff ambushed us once we finally got back, saying something else had come up, something about scarecrows. You see Farmer Gump, had arrived earlier that day to Sandpoint, reporting that he had been attacked by his won scarecrows, and kept repeating old rhyme, that Grandma had taught us, about creepy scarecrows that would eat you if you didn’t behave. This day was just getting better and better it seemed arrghhh.
So it was decided that come the morning we would set out early to deal with the scarecrows. So off to our normal haunt to relax, meanwhile Tammer and Glorli kept checking up on Sis for most of the evening, I just know something is up, maybe I should ask Grandma before I go to sleep
I decided an early’ish night was for the best.
Rest well Faithful Diary,
Es.
Moonday 22nd Lamashan: Late at night
Sorry to Disturb you Diary,
Thought I should not this down, so wasn’t quite getting off to fine sleep as usual, so thought some nice warm milk would do the trick, having crept downstairs so as not to disturb the others, and find both of them having a not so nice chat in the Kitchen, seems Grandma had caught Emyralda, trying to sneak out without the rest of us, and thought it was a bad idea, I made a nice drink for the both of them, and added my own views on the folly of going alone, and then went back to my bed. Plus no dream feast for naughty Sis.
Night and sorry again Diary,
Es.
Toilday 23rd Lamashan
Dear Diary,
Well you just know this wasn’t going to be a good fun day, what with the events of the previous, Sis was in a foul'ish mood, still thinking she was doing it for the good of all, bah she can be so impulsive, didn’t she remember Grandma’s teachings of unity and how a cavern of many is safer that a caravan of one, I despair. Kind of feel betrayed too, she thinks I told Grandma on her, when I really didn’t know what was going on, what with all the secrets and such. Arrghh plus what does she actually know about ghouls, at least my priestly training has helped prepare me in some ways to defeat those foul creatures. I do truly despair
Anyway back to our “day”, well surprise surprise the scarecrows turned out to be ghouls, but those sick people, even tied up people suffering from ghoulfever as well, though sadly it discovered this too late, as Tanrovs axe cleaved one poor woman’s husband in two. I did start a painting the scarecrows we had checked, and this was when we kind of got separated from my over exuberant sis, luckily I had Glorli looking after me, or it may have gone very badly for me, as out of the cornfields came a number of ghouls hungry for “us”. Glorli a star as always when faced with such odds, and backed by the power of Desna, we were able to prevail.
Having defeated quite in a few in the fields, we came to the manor house, and were able to defeat the last remaining ghouls, including what seemed like some leader of some sort, though we were pretty sure by the now the Master was still Aldern. I think it best not to say anything of their food storage, that was once the barn. We also found an odd box contained a lot of silver all in carefully wrapped little bags each with a certain number in, and very carefully organised.
We travelled on, thinking it best to get this place behind us, we found another farm and sought refuge in their barn, and finally got some well earned rest. I helped the Farmer the best I could and made him comfortable, before finally collapsing into my bedroll as well.
Es.
Wealday 24th Lamashan
Dear Diary meet the Misgiving’s, as I write this, I can still seem the creepy disturbing building, as it barely clings on to existence on a crumbling cliff face, that by all accounts it should have tumbled off decades before. Luckily I am sitting on my fine caravan, too weary to really care, I think Tanrov has collapsed under here somewhere, and my Sis and Tammer are asleep in my bed.
Ahh but I get ahead of myself, I am a little shaken not everyone get to fail to become a liche everyday. So we woke up in that barn, and I started my prayers, hearing hoof beats in the distance, and trying not to disrupt my prayers, I managed to upturn a bottle of water onto Tanrov, to get his attention, and continued my prayers. Tanrov noisily as normal woke most people, in trying to find out was going on, and discovers a “wagon” was approaching, sis was soon to correct him that it was actually our caravan, at that my prayers became slightly more hurried. It turned out Chaine (Or “Cha cha” as I call him), an old acquaintance from when I was younger had returned once more to the area, he was always quite the traveller and rogue. Sis bounded up and hugged him immediately after he had gotten past our bewildered Tanrov. My prayers increased once more, and were soon finished so I could go greet our new guest, of course he expected a hug, so I was happy to oblige and hugged “Hobo” his fine hound, and then Cha second, it always fun to wind him up a little, plus why would you call you faithful companion “Dog”. Though it lightened our mood somewhat, even Sis seemed happier once we were inside our caravan.
We soon set off, and bade farewell to Glorli, as he had offered to take the poor farmer back to Sandpoint, so be could recover, many fond farewells were made and we off once more to the forebodingly named Misgiving’s.
We had to approach the manor itself on foot, as the paths had narrowed too much, and the place lived up to its name, a truly uninviting place, looking long lost, with grime and rot abound, and a large burned outbuilding evident to the front of the house, as well as sickly looking crows, just to add tot eh eerie nature of the place.
Clutching my starknife and symbol of Desna tighter, I watched over Tanrov as he searching the outbuilding, while the rest of our group approached the front door, which turned out to be locked, locked with the key I had in my slingbag. With Tanrov finished we approached the main door, and the lock turned with ease and proved to be very well made. Letting my sister open the large doors I hung back. The smell of rotten wood, mould and amp assaulted as the door swung open. Trophy adorned this large hall, the most impressive being a tattered stuffed manticore. Sis managed to find some strange monkey headed thing, with a bell pull, and of course did the obvious, still not sure why no one stopped her, maybe they thought the element of surprise was a pretty mute point by now I guess. The unholy and hideous sound that thing made, who in their right mind would ever use such a thing.
We continued to search the large imposing place, and then strange things started, the first being something strange that came over Sis, after stepping inot a room that seemed to have some pacing invisible creature in it, I am sure she said something like we must get out of here, and grabbed Tammer by the hand and fled, straight out the front door, think Sis has been practising her sprints as in no time she was gone, we chased after her a little stunned by the events unfolding, we reached the outside once more to only ly see Sis and Tmme fleeing, as they were enveloped by a huge flock of crows, as Tanrov and I rushed in to help, the crows displayed themselves to be undead, Sis now almost back to herself was now vehemently fighting back, and Tanrov was wading in. I trusted in Desna and sent forth her will, to see the crows start to crumble and fade before Desna. Sis seemed a little taken back, and all of us were confused. We now noticed Cha, was delayed leaving the house, and seemed shaken as he did. He informed us that the manticore had just burst into flame, and its face had become that of a beautiful red headed girl (trust him to find a beautiful girl, I don’t know everywhere he goes, you hear stories), though the manticore was back to normal when we entered the house once more.
This was only the start of a great many strange events, Tammer leaping into pirouettes and dance steps only to stop suddenly and look horrified, then he was attacked by a Varisian Kapenia, each time he looked more shaken, and refused to speak of what he had seen. Sis and Tammer seemed to fare less well in this haunted place. Tanrov and Cha attempted to commit suicide, the former to cut his own throat with a splinter of wood, and Cha to jump out of a stained glass window onto a sharp weathervane, which allowed him to escape a plunge over the cliff. I was assaulted with feelings of immense rage at all women, and hence Sis was apparently blasted by fiery light by me.
In one room with many portraits, Cha was treated to a vision of how each of the people portrayed had been affected by the house, one becoming mould, one burning and becoming crumpled, and I forget the others, that house is just truly evil and needs to be laid to rest.
We found Aldern’s wife (Iesha as we found out later), in her undead glory, though exactly what I could not tell, my friends asked me to lay her to rest, but sadly I could not, I feel her reason for staying was all powerful, and that seemed to be to exact vengeance, on the one in the same, husband and killer. She seemed trapped in her own self loathing whenever she saw her own self and items from her past like the Kapenia, we had to leave her like this, as we could do no better for her. This house has warped and changed to many, and I feel we are just the latest victims, as we shall all be changed by this.
We found a great many Stained windows with links to necromancy, which Tammer and I worked out to detail the transformation into a lich, though later I was to learn exactly what this was like in my own wonderful mind.
After much searching and exploring, (Plus I found a lovely set of silverware and decanters for the caravan) we had only one locked door left, feeling worn out by now, we decided to let Aldern’s wife have her revenge, Tanrov went upstairs to release her from her loathing in the attic, she destroyed the locked iron door in moments and was soon through and way ahead of us, we followed as quickly as we could, I was assaulted by visions of lichdom, and Sis once more was treated to more disturbing sights just for her. I bathed myself in the light of Venya before descending further into this depraved place.
We had to battle through more ghouls even goblin ones, and my faith in Desna served me well. At last we reached the final chamber. A sickly mould covered one wall, a large table dominated the room, and had many personal objects of Em’s, as well as a grisly altered painting. Lying slumped to one side was Aldern’s wife, looks like she had a chance to get her revenge, I only hope she can rest in peace at long last now. At the end of the table was the ghoulish Aldern himself. Cordial one moment, and then leaping to savagely attack Sis the next, he seemed a conflicted man, my sister ravaged and paralysed, he broke down and sobbed, starting to tell his tale, releasing the undead creatures hold over my sis, with a quick blessing to Desna, she started to lean in to listen, when he was rudely interrupted by an enraged Tanrov swinging his large axe, and then another change came over Aldern, he straightened up, holding himself poised, and looking coldly calculating, this was the true monster, in moments Tanrov was down and bleeding from a flurry of blows. Knowing I had to save Tanrov and halt the beast before he could claim another of my friends, I sought the peace of Desna, and sent forth the light to bathe and heal Tanrov, and with my other hand, clutching the starknife fuelling my determination with the indignation and outrage of what this fiend has done to my family, my friends, his many victims and his own poor Varisian wife, I focused the last of the light into a tight beam to piece him thought his heart, and looked on as his body crumbled.
With this we at last started to relax and then were assaulted once more by an eerie haunting trying to bring us closer to the mould, ad to feed upon it, I seized my chance before it could fully take hold of us, and let the blessing of Freedom and travel from Desna, grant us strength to resist ad overcome. Sis and Tamemr found some disturbing drawing of herself by Aldern, Cha wanted to have a good look, I jokingly said we should frame them, and Tammer promptly ripped them up and burned them, though they did find a letter, whch they both read, and then said we were going to Magnamar. At last it seemed we were finished, while Sis and Tammer made their way to the exit, Cha, Tanrov and I, went about collecting what we could, the Mirror my Ss liked, the painting of Iesha I wanted to renovate, plus we found the body of a notorious bandit.
At last we left the Misgiving’s, wearied and loaded up, and make our trek back to the caravan, the only thing keeping my legs moving, was the thought of finally getting a chance to sleep in my new bed, and use it for the first time. Imagine my disappointment when I find Sis and Tammer asleep in it, meaning I get to sleep on the uncomfortable floor, at least there are some spare cushions, and I have Desna’s dreamfeast to look forward to, though Cha did offer me a space in his large bedroll, saying something about Sis is too nice, but I was a little sleepy by then. After trying to sleep for a bit I got a numb part, and decided to write to you. Thinking back on this I think I shall wait and find out what my friends tell me about what is going on, if they end up keeping more secrets, maybe I shall stay with Grandma while they go to Magnamar, I think I have quite a few things to talk to her about.
Night Diary,
Es.
Oathday 25th Lamashan
Dear Diary,
Felt like I awoke in a Healer’s house this morning, firstly I ached all over, and secondly only Tammer and I were not suffering from awful diseases, Tanrov was so bad he couldn’t regain consciousness. Oh well guess, it's another morning of rushed prayers to Desna, I will have to make amends for this soon. It seems Sis and Tanrov both had ghoulfever, while Cha and Tanrov had some strange malady that was probably the one that killed the Foxglove family so long ago. All my blessings for the day were used in short order to keep all my friends alive. I don’t know, now they all want me here for them, bah nice to be needed, plus another night I don’t get to sleep in my bed. I am just so tired, maybe I can get some catnaps later.
Little hugs
Es.
BUMP!!!
I just wanted to remind you that the two differing journals that you and Kayos are doing for the AP present an interesting dichotomy of perspective on the campaign. Keep up the good work.