Back to Basics (Group 3)

[Amanil]

Spoiler: Asher

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Freewarriors, mercenaries and adventure-seekers:
The Church of St. Cuthbert is hiring.
Applications to Father Quintus

What more could the halfling hope to see on the noticeboard of The Rowdy Merchant? Maybe this was his chance to escape the hum-drum of town life, to finally see the world like his great-great-grandfather had? They can't all have just been stories? Even if there was but an ounce of truth in them, the world was an exciting place to explore - and what better way than with some like-minded folk? There was that nice tallfolk lass who'd shown up a few days ago, Eila, maybe she'd be interested in coming along? She'd said she was after an adventure as well, and she told some great stories.

Asher knew of Father Quintus - stern, unforgiving, apparently a former crusader - but fortunately he'd never been unlucky enough to catch his attention. Head of the church of St. Cuthbert near the village centre, he'd be easy enough to find. It might be worth avoiding the eye of some of the church's acolytes who knew his name and a little of his past.

Spoiler: OOC

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Your starting scenario is a lot less involved than most, but you've got the advantage of having some local knowledge. If you have any pertinent questions, let me know.

You start on the way to find Father Quintus with Eila coming along as well. The two of you don't really know each other, but you find her more interesting than the usual merchants and drunkards in the tavern.

Spoiler: Eila

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Towns didn't keep Eila's attention for long - within a matter of days their routine was already eating away at her free spirit and she was always looking for the next road out of there. Harlskeep had served its purpose - the merchants coming through had given her a little coin to look after herself, but it was hardly exciting work. Her temporary dancing at The Rowdy Merchant was interesting, but it lacked any real charm. Most of those here were here to drink, and that just wasn't right.

One person who'd actually paid her attention was a halfling called Asher. He had an interesting quirk about him - definitely piquing Eila's interest more than the loudmouth farmers and drollish merchants - and he apparently shared her adventerous spirit. In fact, it was him who'd pointed out a poster stuck on the noticeboard.

Freewarriors, mercenaries and adventure-seekers:
The Church of St. Cuthbert is hiring.
Applications to Father Quintus

The thought of working for the church wasn't overly thrilling, but it did say "adventure-seekers". What's the worst that could happen, right?

Spoiler

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At the IC start you are heading with Asher to meet Father Quintus. The two of you have chatted for a couple of nights.

Spoiler: Isaac

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The church in Harlskeep was well-founded, and Isaac had found himself welcomed warmly by his fellow brothers of St. Cuthbert. For a church this grand and a flock this size there was a definite lack of members of the clergy, which struck Isaac as odd but gave him the perfect opportunity to find some tasks he could perform to help out.

Within a week he was already leading his own small sermons, and he'd relished the opportunity to spread the good word. Over a supper of bread and cheese one evening, where he sat with the other two brothers and Father Quintus, the head priest's expression was more sombre than usual. When asked about it, he brushed the question off.

Yesterday, a dwarf called Sar'tul had arrived in Harlskeep. He, too, was a member of St. Cuthbert's clergy. His history was a little uncertain, but Father Quintus seemed to respond positively to his arrival, busying himself in his chambers as he evidently planned something.

Today after the morning sermon he summoned Isaac and Sar'tul to his chambers. Upon arrival, he indicated an arrangement of papers and maps on his desk.

"Brothers, we have some grave news. Apparently a cult has been kidnapping villagers near Jannisthorp - to what end, we can only imagine. The village elder has pleaded with us for aid after receiving nothing from the military." He paused to let the news sink in a moment.

"I can only assume your recent arrivals are a blessing from our Lord Himself, and as such beseech you to take up this task such that order can be returned to the people of Jannisthorp. I have requested the aid of local mercenaries and the like, who shall be convening today. From them we will form two task forces, with each of you at the head."

"Brother Isaac, you are to lead a group in finding and rescuing the kidnapped villagers. Brother Sar'tul, you are to seek out the roots of the evil and do what you can to bring the cult itself down. May His Justice be served."

Spoiler: OOC

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Unlike the others, you are not queuing outside but will be accompanying Father Quintus in the interviews. While it might be a bit immersion breaking for you, I ask that you don't strongly object to any of the other players as applicants, or at least have Isaac keep his objections to himself.

Spoiler: Silgar

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Harlskeep - the first true civilisation Silgar had reached. He had travelled north, skirting past the dense forests known to belong to the elves; surrounded by trees was no place for a warrior of the plains. The town was... interesting. Apparently a busy trading hub, Harlskeep was loud with bustling markets and the sounds of industry. This, too, was no place for a horse lord.

These people valued coins too much, and within 24 hours Silgar found himself out of appropriate goods to barter and coin to trade with. Concerned over his lack of food, he spotted some notices on the communal boards of the inn he had spent the night in. Writing had never been Silgar's strong point, but he'd learned to read passably enough.

One notice in particular caught his interest:

Freewarriors, mercenaries and adventure-seekers:
The Church of St. Cuthbert is hiring.
Applications to Father Quintus

Clearly this was good work for the likes of him.

Spoiler: Tom

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Deacon Tiller sent Tom on his way with a friendly smile and a blessing. He knew the boy would do well, young as he may be, and the experience of the open road could only further his progress towards enlightenment. He handed Tom a letter as he headed out of the door, with instructions to read it once he was in Harlskeep.

Tom had travelled there on occasion with another member of the monastery as an escort to purchase provisions, and it was with them that he arrived. It had only been a two hour journey, and after saying his farewells to his adopted brothers he opened the letter:

Tom,

Father Quintus has asked me for assistance, requesting the aid of one like yourself in an apparently righteous task. Though he follows the teachings of St. Cuthbert rather than the Sun Father, I have known him since my youth and he is a good man. Take this seal as my recommendation, and may your first venture into the world be a blessed one.

Remember your prayers, but respect those who do not share them. Be mindful of their beliefs, however, for many lack the purity of heart you are used to.

May His light shine upon you,

Father Artemis Tiller

A wooden token with a wax seal on it is rolled up within the letter.

The church of St. Cuthbert in Harlskeep is a rather imposing yet simple building - smooth stone walls, solid buttresses, and a large bell tower. It's evident that there's some interest, as a rather diverse queue is forming outside the main door. A human wearing simple robes and a large iron holy symbol about his neck stands at its head with a piece of parchment on a board, and is slowly checking off names and sending people in one by one.

Spoiler: OOC

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You arrive in the order that you post. Once invited inside please post in spoiler tags (the discussion will be in private). Feel free to chat amongst yourselves, ask questions, etc. while in the queue.

[Breitheamh]

Silgar treads cautiously toward the intimidating stone walls, thinking to himself, How do these people move this thing if there's a fire or a twister?

Embarrassingly, the young warrior finds himself so deep in awestruck wonder that he bumps into the person at the back of the line. The horse at his side nickers at him in amusement, and Silgar's face flushes as he flicks the horse's ear. "Shut up, Reathai," he mutters quietly.

He shifts and fidgets uncomfortably as he waits in line, itching to do...something. He grabs a handful of horse feed from a saddlebag and tries to feed it to Reathai, who sniffs at it a little, takes a nibble, and then huffs at him, so he absentmindedly takes a bite himself.

The young man is nervous, but excited; unsure, but eager. He tries his best not to make eye-contact with anyone for more than an instant.

[gremlin-pult]

With a spring in his step, Asher trots over to the back of the line. With a smile, he pulls his widebrimmed hat down to shade his eyes. "Hmm, many odd faces here, and even more new ones." He muses."Best to keep my head low and my smile high, as pop would say."

As he looks around at the other people assembled, Asher can't help but feel his pulse quicken in excitement. "This is so much better than snatching the guards' belts during their patrols. I can practically smell the adventure. or maybe its those fellows in front of me."
Asher snickers faintly to himself, amused at his own attempt to calm down. He then positions himself in a more relaxing stance, and waits

[redzimmer]

Isaac Arkon

Isaac fidgeted nervously. He knew the value of gathering a suitably skilled force for the expedition, but every minute he wasted here...

No, it was not his place to question Father Quintus. He tried to keep his anxiousness to himself.

Spoiler: For DM

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Not 100% certain. Should just be reading their spoilers when interviewing, or some other approach?

[Amanil]

The priest monitoring the queue ushers Silgar inside, pointing at a nearby post for him to secure his horse. The inside of the church is in the same style as the exterior: simple wooden pews, wide stone aisles, and a great block of rough stone as an altar. Plain brown curtains block off various parts, and the priest indicates a door behind a drawn-back curtain towards the back of the church.

"Knock twice and enter, then introduce yourself to Father Quintus."

The priest scratches a few words down on his ad hoc clipboard before returning to monitoring the queue.

Spoiler: Silgar, Isaac

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The side room is small and simply furnished - a wooden desk with a neat arrangement of parchments and scrolls. Seated behind the desk is an elderly man, probably in his sixties. A stern expression is on his face, and his long, white hair is pulled neatly back. A short, neatly-combed, grey - verging on white - beard adorns his chin. Standing to his side is a man taller than Silgar - he has a sturdy frame and close-cropped hair the colour of fire. Both wear grey robes with white trim, with those of the seated man's having a second band of sky blue. The standing man is armoured in studded leather.

The seated man eyes Silgar up and down, obviously silently appraising him.

"You have the look, and might I say the smell, of a hunter about you, my son." The seated man speaks. "Are you a tracker? A nomad?"

Spoiler: OOC

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Remember to post in spoiler tags from now on, addressed to "DM, Silgar, Isaac".

Spoiler: Isaac, OOC

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Silgar is a human. He is short and thin, with sinewy muscles running along his exposed arms.
He wears a thin, sleeveless shirt underneath his hardened leather tunic, and light leggings underneath his tough chaps.

Spoiler: Isaac, OOC

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Hopefully it'll be obvious what tags you should be reading. If there's any doubt I doubt there's much harm in just reading it. I'm keeping things private to a degree for a sense of mystery about each others' capabilities.

[Acco Spoot]

Such was his dedication to the Sun-Father that Tom had somewhat fallen out of accustom with the wider elements of the great pantheon. He knew of and respected the devotee's of St Cuthbert, but could still not restrain a little of his unease at the imposing structure and congregation held outside.
Not contented with merely passing the time in such a dense crowd he strikes up idle conversation, imparting with informal blessings, May blessings of his light shine upon you. News from out in the bishopric farmsteads, Aye, a wet summer, surely this may be a rich year yet! and a simple donation to the Almshouse of five gold pieces.

[redzimmer]

Issac

Spoiler: Silgar

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Out of deference to his host, Issac allows Quintus to do the bulk of the interviewing. Meanwhile, the young cleric tries to get a measure of the scruffy man before him.

Spoiler: Sense Motive. Why not?

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Untrained (1d20+2)[4]

[Amanil]

The priest outside seems to note something down as Tom makes his donation, a warm smile on his face.

"His light is most welcome here, brother."

Spoiler: OOC, Tom

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For your interest, I've got an established Pelorite set of customs within the setting that you are welcome to adapt for your own usage:

• Typical group prayers are of the form "We are <adjective>, as the Sun Father <verbs> us; oh Shining One, may your light <some abstract request>". Example: "We are found, as the Sun Father guides us; oh Shining One, may your light drive back darkness."
• The typical response from the congregation to the above is "Your light <verbs> us", with the same verb as in the refrain.
• Lots of general talk about "his light", "illuminating", etc.

Spoiler: OOC, Isaac

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What you see is what you get.

[Acco Spoot]

My thanks brother. He bowed deeply towards the layperson, putting forth his best teachings in etiquette. Pray tell, if it is of no small inconvenience, how long until Father Quintus will make himself available? I come with business from the Monastic houses, but do not wish to deny his congregation their due sermon.

[Breitheamh]

Silgar walks his horse over to the post and rubs the colt's neck several times, shushing him in an attempt, really, to put himself at ease. Finally, he points to the ground, indicating that Reathai should stay, then nervously enters the church building, nodding his acknowledgment of the clergyman's directions.

He approaches the door and takes a deep breath, summoning his courage, before knocking twice as instructed and entering confidently.

Spoiler: DM, Silgar, Isaac

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The young warrior steps forward with his right foot, seamlessly dropping onto his left knee as he lightly touches his forehead with his fingertips and then bows his head and reaches down to place his hand palm-up on the top of his right foot. He keeps his head down in deference as he speaks.

"I am Silgar of Capall tribe. I am hunter and tracker, if this is needed, but I am sorry, I do not know what is 'nomad'."

The young man smiles inwardly at his fluency in the common tongue, and brushes off his ignorance of the word 'nomad'. He had worked hard under his elder's tutelage to master it.

[redzimmer]

Isaac

Spoiler: To Quintus

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"Begging your pardon, Father, but could we not speed things along but asking St. Cuthbert to reveal those of good intention and hurry us on our way?

It already rankled him that people would expect remuneration for simply doing what was right, but to have to go through this ridiculous pantomime first irritated the young priest.

Spoiler: ooc

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Here is a good example why Isaac is constantly shuttled off from Parrish to Parrish. He is a firm believer in action over sense. Our left to his own devices he'd probably just cast detect evil on everyone and either lecture or smite depending on the result. And he tends to say either "with all due respect..." or "begging your pardon..." just before saying something completely without tact.

[Amanil]

"Father Quintus is currently conducting interviews for, as I understand it, a mission in His name, and is therefore unusually busy. Please join the queue, I'm sure he won't mind discussing your business between interviews." He gestures to the short queue.

Spoiler: Silgar, Isaac

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The seated man looks amused. "A nomad is one whose home is where he lays his head. There are many nomadic tribes to the south, do the Capall hail from there?"

He continues talking, as if the previous question was rhetoric or inconsequential. "Do you know the ways of St. Cuthbert?" he asked a little doubtfully. "We are commissioning a party in His name, and I believe a tracker would be of use." He turns to the figure next to him to see if he agreed. "If you are willing to at least abide by His ways you may well be a welcome addition to the expedition, regardless of your patron."

Father Quintus muses Isaac's question over. "Many of this town revere Pelor's ways above all, and those of our congregation are simple-folk, which is why we must enlist the aid of mercenaries as-is. As it stands we have no warrior of St. Cuthbert to judge these souls, you are of course welcome to appraise them yourself before your final assessment."

Spoiler: OOC

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In case there's doubt, by "warrior of St. Cuthbert" he means a paladin.

[gremlin-pult]

As the sound of coins changing hands reaches Ashers ears, he is immediately roused from his boredom, and looks toward the acolyte and the other, wellspoken man, and edges toward them. He waits for them to finish their exchange, and then adresses the strange donator. Well, if you are looking to help those in need, then look no further" He flashes the man his friendliest smile, and nods politely to the acolyte "Brother Phineas, so nice to see you got over that nasty cold of yours. I and the others prayed for you every night. Now" He says, and turns to the other man "I represent the triple H, the Home for Hungry Halflings foundation, and you sir would be doing a great service to us all if some of your coin could buy the dinner for my fellows that they so direly need" Pausing to draw breath, Asher looks expectantly at the man.

Spoiler: Tom

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And just so were on the same page, you are the lucky guy that gets the attention of one smiling halfling in a widebrimmed hat

[Breitheamh]

Spoiler: DM, Silgar, Isaac

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A look of shock crosses Silgar's face as he glances up quickly in surprise. A Capal-li warrior who had spoken out of turn in the presence of an elder in such a manner as the young priest's impudent question would have been immediately dismissed to await public shaming and possibly, depending on the severity of the disrespect, a lash with a horsehair whip.

The confidence nearly drains out of Silgar completely as he realizes just how strange this world is. But, he mentally shakes out his fears and answers the elder's questions.

"Yes, I am from south, but I am sorry twice. I do not know who is St. Cuthbert."

Nervousness continues to creep into Silgar's heart as he admits ignorance for a second time, though it is tempered somewhat by the knowledge that his tracking skills could be needed.

[Amanil]

The smile on the priest's face becomes somewhat less sincere as the halfling engages him. "Asher, thank you for your kind words. Been keeping out of trouble, I hope? I can't say I remember seeing you at the weekly sermon since it was required by Brother Devon's ruling."

Spoiler: Asher, OOC

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I'm assuming Asher has been caught committing a minor infringement at some point in the past, and attending two month's of sermons seems a fair "sentence".

As Asher has likely had a few run-ins with the law, it's relevant that you know the following:

There are three levels of laws:

• King's Law - the individual rulings of the monarch (known as Queen's Law if the current monarch is female), who can overrule the lesser laws in any case. Generally King's Law is only invoked after direct petition, and then almost entirely in cases involving nobles. Cases of treason are always covered by King's Law.
• Church Law - sometimes known as Temple Law, this is the rules enforced by a given religious body. It rarely covers areas covered by Common Law, but often comes down harshly on those who would do ill against the religion. Church Law can only be in effect if one of the criteria is met:
  
  • It directly involves a priest/clergyman of the given religion.
  • It occurs on land owned by the religion.
  • The head of any given local church says so. Because of this, the predominant religions in an area are almost always good, and often lawful, otherwise they can be viewed as corrupt. Some seek leniency regarding an infraction of Common Law, and clemency often comes with a monetary "donation" or promise of service/pilgrimage.
• Common Law - enforced by the local lord and the town watch, this is the set of rules that affect most people day-to-day. It lays out what's generally illegal and the appropriate punishments. It covers crimes such as murder, rape, robbery and assault. It varies slightly from region to region but mostly only in severity.

Feel free to pick a lesser-crime, or perhaps a slightly cruel prank that he played on a priest of St. Cuthbert.

[gremlin-pult]

Asher looks up at the priest, a mischiveous glint in his eye Oh come now Phinny, I already told both you and the Constable that I have no idea how i ended up in the nunnery. You should blame the Barkeep at the Hog for spicing up my drink without telling me. Besides, I already paid a goodly donation to your church as repayment. and you did get your robes back." He breaks into an innocent smile "Can't we call it even, my friend? I am simply trying to get this good, honest man to donate some coin to my fourteen starving siblings. And if everything goes as I hope, I will soon be working for the church on this worthy endeavor" He gestures vaguely at the line of people. "It is, after all, my duty as an honest, law abiding citizen"

[Amanil]

"Indeed." Brother Phineas notes something down on his ad hoc clipboard, keeping an eye on Asher.

[Acco Spoot]

Spoiler: OOC Asher

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So this is gonna be your standard Human Paladin/Halfling Rogue relationship then? Alright, let's play!

Tom dips his head in lamentation; I'm sorry friend, I make my donations to the Almshouses only, in good faith that it does its best there. I am sorry to hear of your conditions however, if you would like I can break bread with your family, I am told my lamb stew is of a most filling recipe, or perhaps assist your foundation in providing warm clothing and blankets? He says through a smile which displays the most charming ignorance.

[gremlin-pult]

Asher looks up at the man, for a moment unsure of whether he is serious, or simply playing him for a fool. Asher then shakes his head, laughing softly to himself. Ah, but alas my friend, my comrades have been through so much in their hard lives, and are as a result extremely vary of strangers. but i thank you for your kind gesture nonetheless." He reaches out his hand to the man "The name's Asher, Asher Skulldugger. Pleased to meet ya. Are you also here to hire on with the church for this job of theirs?"

[Acco Spoot]

I pray his light soon shines upon you and your kin. Tom bows his head in respect, then nervously takes the halflings hand, unfamiliar with the particulars of the custom. Somewhat, aye. I am here under request of my Monastic House, the clergy herein I am told seek good, honest men to fulfill a righteous duty.

[gremlin-pult]

"Troll's breath, man. You do have a complicated vocabulary. They must really take education seriously where you're from. Most people here can hardly speak in full sentences." Asher says with a grin, shaking the mans hand firmly before letting go. "But I'm sure we can have a lot of fun on this job, since were both canny gentlemen. I personally can't wait for this to start. It's sure to be a great adventure"

[Acco Spoot]

The Monastic House had a rich library in which to study, and aye, I were taught to practice proper etiquette before the clergy, the landowners and when in observation of the marshalled courts. Sorry, I didn't introduce myself did I? My name's Tiller, eh, Tom Tiller, Palatinate at Charge, and might eager too to carry his light into those places at their darkest, I'm glad to have made your acquaintance Mr Asher, can I humbly ask your trade, I mean, outside of your charities?

[gremlin-pult]

"Well, I don't exactly have a trade, as such. I never had the opportunity to learn one, so I have simply gone through life as a... free agent, I suppose you could call it. doing different kinds of jobs. whatever put coin in my purse, really. Of course, if I had devoted myself to a trade, I wouldn't have been able to join this, whatever it turns out to be. And I am aching to leave this town, and see the world."

[Amanil]

Spoiler: OOC

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For the record, Harlskeep is a small town. To some it may seem grand enough to be a city, but it's far from it.

[Acco Spoot]

Aye, I shall miss the houses in which I grew, and the companions I shared, but it is us who are burdened with the most virtuous of curses; determination and curiosity, let us swear it is directed at a noble cause.

[Amanil]

Spoiler: Isaac, Silgar

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"Then today will be as good a day as any to learn His ways. I'm sure Brother Isaac will be able to educate you," Father Quintus responds. "The task I ask of you will require travelling to Jannisthorp. You likely haven't heard of the village, but it is easy enough to get to. From there, assist Brother Isaac with his enquiries and execution of St. Cuthbert's law. I don't anticipate this taking much longer than a week, but could be more depending on what his investigations find. Payment will be ten gold per day, from which you are to cover your own expenses. You will be paid twenty gold in advance, and the rest on your successful return."

The Father steepled his fingers and rested his chin on them. "Are there any questions?"

[Breitheamh]

Spoiler: DM, Silgar, Isaac

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He'd been selected! He hadn't expected to be after his embarrassing second admission of ignorance. He figured they would want someone who was not a child to their ways.

Silgar sat in stunned silence for a long few seconds before it registered that the elder had finished speaking and expected him to respond.

"Thank you for your kindness. Your bow is mine and your horse is mine, but I am sorry three times. I do not know who is Brother Isaac."

[redzimmer]

Isaac

Isaac clears his throat meaningfully and pulls himself up to his full height.

"I am he," Isaac says, unsure how to take his sudden promotion to catechism teacher.

"If you wish to learn of St. Cuthbert, it shall have to be while we travel to Jannisthorpe."

Isaac fidgets impatiently and shouts towards the door.

"Time is of the essence. Are there other applicants?"

[Breitheamh]

Spoiler: DM, Silgar, Isaac

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Silgar stays bowed on his knee for as long as he feels necessary to show proper deference to Father Quintus despite Brother Isaac's disrespect. Finally, after a long moment, he stands and greets Isaac as a fellow trusted warrior, feet firmly planted on the ground, even his heels, and fingers touched lightly to his throat, coming to rest clasped in his other hand in front of his stomach.

"Hail, fellow. I hope this journey will be verygood," he says politely, then turns again to Father Quintus and inclines his head before speaking. "I am sorry. I ask for leaving to see my horse."

When he is dismissed, Silgar walks quickly outside to the sound of nickering as Reathai sees him. He pats the horse on the side, then hugs him around the neck and nuzzles his head into the colt's shoulder. Reathai huffs in contentment, and then Silgar mounts up. The horse warrior murmurs lightly in the horse's ear in the Capal-li tongue, and then straightens up. Suddenly the horse breaks into a gallop and carries Silgar to the edge of Harlskeep, then out into the fields beyond. He rides for a couple of miles, feeling the wind on his face and the freedom of the open plains, but eventually he turns back, knowing he has a responsibility to travel with this Brother Isaac.

Spoiler: OOC

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He'll be back in less than an hour, but he needed to clear his head a bit. When is the party leaving?

[Amanil]

Spoiler: Isaac, Silgar

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Father Quintus looks somewhat surprised at Isaac's outburst. "Perhaps you are right, but temperance is a virtue, brother."

He addresses Silgar. "Please make whatever arrangements you need to and convene here at noon."

The priest outside looked inside and nodded. "Asher, the Father will see you now." He gestured inside towards the side door.