Trans-Atlantic Carrion Crown - Thread #2 (IC)

[DarkOne-Rob]

As the company cleans up the blood and rights the furniture in the guest room Kristoph slowly gets back on his feet. "Let's go as soon as we can - if we could track Gundwolf's trail here others might too. We need to get to the breakfast and clear any tracks he made quickly," he says. Turning to Kendra he thanks her and apologizes for the disturbance. Then, he gathers his things and helps Gundwolf finish cleaning himself before leading the party outside. There he asks the party's tracker(s) to help blur the path Gundwolf took before guiding them to the appointed place for breakfast.

Smiling, he makes it a point to greet villagers as they pass and puts on an encouraging air to everyone they see. He greets any council members when he arrives before ordering a meal from the establishment and sitting down with them.

[JWallyR]

"I think you were possessed by one of the spirits at the prison - perhaps the Splatter Man! He was using you to do his bidding, which seems to involve completing the spelling of 'Vesoriana'..."

Gundwolf watches the young woman with a mixture of fascination and horror at her description. Suddenly, his face contorts into a snarl of silent rage...

"How tired are you, Gundwolf? Can you fight? I think it would be unwise to assume we have three days to deal with this 'Splatter Man'..."

The half-orc turns, teeth bared in a mirthless grin at Elian. "Not too tired to smash any creature that thinks to control me!" growls Gundwolf, punctuating the action with a clenched fist slamming against the floorboards of the room. "I will be dead before that day comes."

After a moment, he notices the startled face of their hostess, and he seems to master himself. "I am sorry, Kenda. Just..." he falls silent, giving a sullen shrug at the mess surrounding him in the room. Without further comment, he works his way to a stand and collects his things, making ready for the day's ventures to come.

[CleverDragon]

Kendra favors Gundwolf with a warm smile of understanding as he utters his sullen apology. "My friend, you needn't apologize. It was not your choice." She kneels down to pick up a painting that was knocked from the wall and sets it back on its hook again. She and the rest of the group make short work of cleaning up most of the mess and then they make their way to the statue where the letters have been written. Sure enough, there's a jagged R written in now-dried blood on the stone.

Ra'Hulhrim and Gundwolf set about the task of clearing any tracks that may have been made by the magically controlled half-orc while the rest finish removing the bloody letter from the memorial statue. There's a moment where Kristoph swears the face on the statue of the guardsman looks at him with disappointment, but after blinking away his confusion, the statue continues to stare off proudly into the distance as usual.

It takes everyone a moment, but after having been in the office at the prison a few times and having spoken with the ghost of Vesorianna, it clicks: this statue is of warden Hawkran himself! The irony of the placement of the letters is certainly not lost on the group.

After working to clean the base of the statue and the area of any potentially incriminating tracks, they make their way northeast to the town center where the Laughing Demon - the local tavern and site of the requested breakfast - is located. A few townsfolk nod or say their greeting to the group, even while huddled against the cold winter wind. There's even a few smiles mixed in among the greetings.

They pass through the town center and then head off along the leftward path that leads to the riverside tavern. Roughly a dozen locals are gathered in front of the tavern, talking quietly, smoking pipes and drinking from steaming mugs. They, too, greet the party warmly and ask how they fare this morning. As the group stops momentarily to talk to the locals, a few of them are recognized. Suddenly, it occurs to the group that each of the folks outside are shop-owners and merchants in the village.

Here's Marta and Luthko whom own the General Store. Over there is Jorfa, the female dwarven owner of the town forge. Beside her is the aged Alendru, owner of the Unfurling Scroll. The owners of the Silk Purse, Luramin and his wife Quess are there as well. Even the stern, grumpy Jominda, owner of the local apothecary, is here and favors the group with a tight-lipped smile for a moment before grumping about how cold it is and sips her tea.

Meanwhile, from within the tavern, one cannot help but hear a singularly beautiful soprano voice carry on the wind, singing a local favorite with perfect tone and pitch.

[JWallyR]

Gundwolf seethes with barely-contained rage at the sight of his own footprints, and at first he seems prepared to pave over the trail by flattening the entirety of it with his savage stomping. Noticing the concerned (and faintly disapproving) stares of his companions, the half-orc masters himself more fully, smudging the heavy prints and stirring up the foliage to conceal evidence of his shameful passage.

Later, as they pass through the town, Gundwolf assumes the stern facade which is his first habitual defense against the expected glares of provincial suspicion and racial distaste. While his effort to ward off conversation seems at first successful, the more sociable members of the party halt to share pleasantries, and the half-orc notes a subtle difference in the furtive looks that come his way. While his size, strength, and prickly exterior continue to intimidate the majority of townsfolk into avoiding his gaze, a few of the largest and heartiest men actually seek it out, and meet his stern gaze with ones of their own... but accompany them with curt nods of respect.

Brows furrowed with suspicion and confusion, Gundwolf's head tilts back on his sinewy neck as he gauges this new phenomenon. After a moment's consideration, he begins to meet these gazes, responding (more and more readily) with his own nods of acknowledgment.

Suddenly, he hears the voice emanating from within the tavern. Entranced, the half-orc meanders around the clump of townsfolk and adventurers, seeking out the source of the beautiful music...

[CleverDragon]

Inside the tavern, Gundwolf sees that most of the tables at the center of the room have been pushed together to fashion one large table. He sees Zokar (the owner of the tavern) bustling around along with his daughters and sons, setting up various places at the table - an admittedly impressive spread of plates and mugs (mostly mismatching) and tableware. He whispers commands to his labor force but doesn't speak loudly. He sees Gundwolf and favors him with a wide smile and wave of his meaty hand and then returns to work getting everything ready for the breakfast.

A few of the council members are standing near the large central table, silent and holding mugs in hand. Among them, Vashian - the head councilman - looks particularly enraptured by the source of the nearly angelic voice. A few other residents of the town gather near the bar, all also held in adoring silence by the soprano.

Gundwolf seeks out the source of the voice and finds it in a rather short, mousy looking woman in glasses with gray streaks in her dark brown hair. Her skin is not nearly as pale as the rest of the Ustalavan residents, marking her as one that hails from nearer the shores of the Inner Sea far, far to the south/southeast. She is dressed plainly, in a dark green heavy dress and leans with one arm on the hearth of the fireplace. She is gazing into the fire as she sings, her foot tapping slowly in time to the song. Her face is in profile, making it difficult to see her expression, but it is clear that she does not quite realize that she has gathered quite the audience. Indeed, nearly all conversation inside the tavern has ceased as she sings the chorus of On Verell's Wings.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Gazing out into the fog still clouding his vision, Kristoph notes Gundwolf's stomping with a resigned expression. Turning back to the statue he is visibly taken aback as he thinks he sees a face looking down upon him. Sighing and covering his eyes, he says a silent prayer for grace from his goddess before turning his back to the memorial and leading the party to the town square.

As he sees Gundwolf begin to greet the various townfolk in his own, taciturn way Kristoph smiles and glances at his other companions. Taking some measure of encouragement from their presences he takes a deep breath and tries to ignore the mist at the edge of his vision. "Not this year not yet...I must be strong, just as they are..."

Once he sees the gathered townsfolk the paladin greets the merchants by name, shaking their hands warmly and wishing them all well. "It is a pleasure to see you all safe and sound this morning. Ravengro will need your leadership too during the coming days - the council may govern, but it is the merchants who are the heart and soul of a village such as this. Be generous, friends, and help your neighbors when they are in need. Remember - 'All who live must face her judgement.' Celebrate this life and share its joys so that the Lady of Graves will judge you favorably in the next!" he says, gesturing enthusiastically around him at the little hamlet and its citizens.

For a moment he looks like he is about to continue. Then he notices the veritable siren call coming from the tavern and watches Gundwolf follow it. "Please excuse me, everyone," he says as he turns to follow. At the door to the building he stops and listens for a moment, humming the chorus of the song to himself with a smirk on his face. Nodding he looks to find the table set for the breakfast meeting and makes his way there, standing patiently for the council members to sit first. As the song continues he gets the attention of one of Zokar's family members and orders a hearty breakfast for himself, saying, "Please bring it out as soon as you see me sit. Can you keep it hot by the fire until then?"

[Farmerbink]

Elian's expression in the upper room betrays confusion for a moment, and embarrassed realization as Kristoph reminds the bard of their breakfast plans. "I had completely forgotten, amidst the.... bustle," he comments with an easy, self-deprecating laugh.

---

The trek towards the statue is a sombre one. Keenly aware of the risk inherent in their action, yet fully in agreement of the necessity, Elian forms a sort of lookout while the rest of the party mars the evidence of Gundwolf's unwilling involvement. A few near misses cause his heart rate to spike, but otherwise they seem successful for the moment.

Approaching the townspeople evokes a decidedly different response from the lithe magician. Smiling easily, if a hair on the restrained side, he greets each person by name, locking eyes and affecting a confident and composed air. "Good morning, Master Luramin, Madam." With a discreet nod of acknowledgement, he moves through the crowd offering implicit reassurance to everyone gathered. He allows Kristoph to speak uninterrupted, comfortably stepping into the metaphorical shadow of his friend's brief declaration of unity. He offers only deliberately timed nods of agreement and support.

Drawn by the singing, Elian half follows/half ushers the gathering towards the tavern. He listens appreciatively, a quiet expression of longing on his face. As the chorus swells, his gaze falls upon Kristoph, humming quietly, and his eyes begin to twinkle with unbeckoned tears. Smiling sadly, he blinks them away and approaches the young paladin. He stands quietly beside him, until the song ends, with a smile.

[MuffinMan]

Aurora stays close to the rest of the group on their journey across the village, although she does overcome her shyness enough to favor a few of the villagers with a smile of her own. She exchanges a few words with Alendru about his work on the haunt siphons before following the others into the Laughing Demon.

The song and the spectacle of the woman singing it pique Aurora's interest, and she discreetly sidles up to Vashian while the song is still going in order to ask softly, "What a beautiful voice - who is she?"

[CleverDragon]

Vashian looks at Aurora and smiles, whispering a quiet welcome and 'Good morning.' As she asks her question, he nods towards the woman, "Ah, that's Sarianna - she owns the inn in town. Beautiful voice, no? It's rare that she sings though, so consider yourself blessed."

The woman's mournful tune reaches its climax and then fades away slowly, the last hauntingly beautiful notes lingering in the air. She turns away from the fireplace and finally realizes that she drew a bit of an audience. Her cheeks flush and she averts her gaze and stammers, "Oh....uh...quite sorry. Just...um...felt like singing...err, s-something for those poor souls. I'm sure I held you up from your breakfast." She scurries off to a chair at the bar and studiously avoids the gazes of those around her.

Vashian leans towards Aurora and Kristoph, speaking quietly as the rest of the chatter in the inn picks up, "Used to sing opera in Calimshan, that one. Something happened though and she doesn't sing much anymore. She won't say what. It's a shame - she's a real gift for it."

A moment passes and then he continues, this time louder. "Thank you for coming. Won't you have a seat, everyone?!" He gestures to everyone in the room to the long table that is now full of food. "I'll keep this short and sweet. We," he looks at the other townsfolk, "thought it would be...appropriate to have it family style. Grab what you like. You're one of us now." He says simply as he picks up his fork and points at the food. Offerings include chicken, fish, vegetables, eggs, bacon, a local soup, water, wine, ale, cider, and many other local delicacies. It's evident to all that Zokar and his family has been working on this meal for quite some time.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Without a moment's hesitation Kristoph raises his hands and voice, loudly announcing, "Let us pray! Lady of Graves, today you have blessed us with another day to live - let us live to the fullest, taking great pleasure in this time together. Thank you for those who prepared this fine meal - may they be richly compensated for many seasons. Send your blessings down upon us all to flow like rainwater. May we envision a bright future and by our actions bring about that day when our children will live without fear. Bless our efforts to cleanse the taint from this land. When you call us to be judged at the foot of your throne may we stand tall, proud of our actions in this life as we receive our just rewards. Amen."

Then, the paladin begins to eat with an enthusiasm that cannot be mistaken. His smile and ready laugh hearken to his visit to the inn's common room several nights ago (before the full threat of the haunted prison was yet realized). For several long minutes the half-elf seems to forget his troubles and simply enjoy the moment with the many townsfolk.

[MuffinMan]

Vashian leans towards Aurora and Kristoph, speaking quietly as the rest of the chatter in the inn picks up, "Used to sing opera in Calimshan, that one. Something happened though and she doesn't sing much anymore. She won't say what. It's a shame - she's a real gift for it."

"Oh my, what a pity..." Aurora's curiosity is ignited, and shortly after the meal begins she excuses herself from her seat and makes her way across the common room to where the woman sits at the bar of the inn. "Excuse me - Miss Sarianna, was it? You have a lovely voice and we all enjoyed your song very much. You should share your talent with us more often, if you don't mind my saying so - oh! Where are my manners? I forgot - my name is Aurora, very pleased to meet you." She drops a small curtsy as her years of etiquette training exert themselves in a kind of subconscious muscle memory.

[JWallyR]

Gundwolf stands still as a statue as the final words of the song dissipate into the unusual stillness of the common room. His reverie is only broken by the woman's own stammered words, and he flushes almost in time with her, the pinkish tinge marked against his weathered gray skin. He turns to where Kristoph is boldly invoking the blessing of his deity, and dazedly makes his way to a seat at the table, reaching slowly for portions of fish and game. His eyes bore unseeingly into the table beneath curiously unfurrowed brows as his jaws make slow work of the bounteous meal.

[Farmerbink]

As the woman makes her timorous exit, Elian can't help but smirk at Aurora- their mannerisms seem so similar. He is still watching the young arcanist, as she makes her query of the head councilman.

"Used to sing opera in Calimshan, that one. Something happened though and she doesn't sing much anymore. She won't say what. It's a shame - she's a real gift for it."

"What?!" Before he can master himself, Elian betrays his feelings both vocally and visibly: ]his face is a contorted mask of confusion, anger, and disappointment. Half a heartbeat later, his expression softens, and he mutters as explanation and apology, "A waste, that..." Stepping back, he allows the councilman to offer his greetings, and respectfully holds his peace through Kristoph's benediction.

As Gundwolf begins awkwardly partaking of the morning's meal, the astute observer would note Elian's discomfort. He sits nearby, looking at the table with a carefully guarded expression. An expert in masking his emotions, only the keenest of eyes truly grasps the cause. As more and more plates fill, Elian begins to pick at the serving dishes, slowly adding little more than a bite at a time to his own plate- only of the nearest dishes.

Spoiler: OOC

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Elian has, above all else, never had a family. The councilman's intention of welcome managed to touch on perhaps the single facet of Elian's person that most readily sets him off his ease.

[DarkOne-Rob]

As the conversation and meal progress Kristoph notes Elian's discomfort. With a smile he walks over to the dhampir and quietly asks, "Is everything alright, friend? You look a bit pale - the food isn't disagreeing with you, is it? There is plenty to choose from if what you have there isn't to your liking."

[CleverDragon]

Sarianna smiles softly and dips her head and curtsies similarly towards Aurora. "Che piaceri viderti, Aurora. I have heard much of you and your friends, though I have not yet met you. The inn sadly requires much attention. But I...thank you for the compliment." She pauses for a moment, then her smile grows a bit sad. "I do not sing much, it is true. Sometimes it is...difficult to find things to sing about."

Meanwhile, the assembled group at the table issue a hearty "Amen!" to Kristoph's prayer, and the group descends into lively conversation. A brave few try to talk even to Gundwolf, talking about the local delicacies and things he should try and combinations for them. Vashian asks Kristoph idly of his background between extremely mannerly bites of his food, always dabbing at the corners of his mouth with a napkin and placing his utensil on the table before he speaks again. At the same time, Shanda - one of the other council members - engages Elian is as much lively conversation as he is willing to participate in. She asks of his history with the professor and of his travels, sharing a couple of "aha!" moments where she says she was in a similar place as he. It's quickly evident that she was well-traveled in her younger days, and admits that she used to serve for the Ustalav crown in some capacity, but is deft at avoiding the topic directly.

All the while, Zokar and his family continues to bring more food and drinks for as long as the occupants of the inn are willing to eat and drink. Zokar's booming laugh can be heard as he tells his infamously horrible jokes and at times, his children can be seen eyeing the party with obvious interest - possibly even a touch of hero-worship as they swing imaginary swords at each other or wiggle their fingers in what they think is a representation of casting magic.

The next two to three hours pass surprisingly quickly, and the group discovers that behind Ravengro's somewhat xenophobic facade is a tight-knit, jovial 'family' who genuinely care for each other and distrust the outside world as a result of forces close and far, mostly the rulership and enforcement of the counties and nation. The conversations evolve constantly and easily as the merchants and the council-members learn more of their would-be saviors...and now, friends.

Spoiler: OOC

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If there's any sort of information you are interested in trying to ascertain about one of the NPCs, this is your time to ask. Make a Diplomacy check with a +5 bonus. Otherwise, I'm good with moving on to the end of the meal and on with the story. Thanks for your patience, folks!

[DarkOne-Rob]

Kristoph chats with Vashian for several minutes, describing the process by which he became a paladin of the Lady of Graves. "I don't usually like to talk about myself, but the good people of Ravengro deserve honest answers, so I will tell you what I can without boring you... I was raised by a farmer and his wife, and though they were kind they made it clear I was not their natural child. They had found me at the edge of the Shudderwood, and when I was only about seven they gave to the Pharasmin church to raise. It was there that I learned about the undead threat that so plagues Ustalav. The church had been grooming me for priesthood, but a chance encounter with a knight from one of the crusades out of Lastwall introduced me to the way of the anointed champion of the church - a paladin. It is exceedingly rare for a paladin to worship the Lady of Graves, but her opposition to undeath is compatible with the way of a holy knight, so I have committed myself to serve her church in this unlikely role. It can make interaction with the priests of our faith a challenge - rarely do they accept me easily - but I am utterly devoted to service her church," he concludes, his passion obvious from the intense look in his eyes. Taking a deep breath he eats a bit more before continuing, "My visit to Ravengro was too late, it seems. I had often intended to visit the good Doctor Lorrimor, but when news arrived of his untimely death I came to pay my respects. He was an often misunderstood man - with which I can relate - but his fervent hatred of the undead matched mine. In different times I like to think we would have worked more closely together..."

Spoiler: OoC

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I am trying to give FarmerBink an opening for RP - the details about Kristoph's background, especially the Shudderwood, have been said specifically to poke at the relationship Elian and Kristoph have - of which Elian is aware, but not Kristoph. I am not sure when/if FarmedBink will want to respond, but I wanted to let the opportunity happen.

As the meal looks to be coming to a close, Kristoph looks to the council and speaks, saying, "We really must thank you for this meal and the reception everyone has given us today - especially after the terrifying events of the last several days and the attack last night. However, we cannot allow the entire day to pass without making strides to prevent such an attack from repeating. To that end, has the council considered our requests from the meeting yesterday? I believe we must cleanse the prison grounds and sanctify the place to the best of our abilities. Ravengro has already suffered a cancerous spy in its midst and repeated overt attacks. Once our party vanquishes the remaining foes inside Harrowstone, will the town step up to do its part? Will you all lead them, along with Father Grimburrow and the other clerics, to ensure that the haunted prison remains free of the blight of undeath? What say you all? How will you help?"

Spoiler: OoC

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This is my way of saying, "Let's move on with the action!"

[MuffinMan]

Sarianna smiles softly and dips her head and curtsies similarly towards Aurora. "Che piaceri viderti, Aurora. I have heard much of you and your friends, though I have not yet met you. The inn sadly requires much attention. But I...thank you for the compliment." She pauses for a moment, then her smile grows a bit sad. "I do not sing much, it is true. Sometimes it is...difficult to find things to sing about."

"I think I know what you mean..." Aurora replies quietly, looking back out at the common room full of celebrating townsfolk. "I was training to be a scholar, to write treatises and advance academic knowledge, but I don't do that very much
myself these days. I remember, right before I left the academy, of just being scared all the time, jumping at my own shadow..." she shakes her head with a soft laugh, "but with the things I've seen since coming here, well, some of them make those days look like a holiday picnic in comparison. But what I've learned from my friends - well, um, still am learning - is that no matter how scared you are,
what matters is only that you act. So, um, I think you should let everyone hear sing more." She blushes at hearing her words come out so forwardly. "Oh! I mean, um - how exactly did you learn to do that? Were you ever classically trained?"

Spoiler: Diplomacy

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Sure, why not!
Diplomacy to learn more about Sarianna's background and why she's reluctant to sing these days: (1d20+5)[9]

After this I, too, will be ready to move on with the action!

[Farmerbink]

Elian relaxes almost palpably, as the councilwoman Faravan strikes up conversation. More content to converse than attempt to navigate the unusually awkward ground of family meals, his plate lies mostly forgotten as he begins to share some of the less-juicy details of his past. in particular, the discovery of a figure who at least respects the late professor for what he accomplished evokes a surprised pleasure in the lithe arcanist.

His eye is drawn to Kristoph more than a few times as the young paladin relates his own experiences with the professor- to a councilman who appears to be politely invested in the conversation, despite lacking any real interest. Elian makes no effort to interject, nor leave Shanda without a conversation partner, for now.

As it becomes more and more obvious that the woman is well-traveled (an uncommon trait for the locals), Elian's interest becomes more and more piqued. Such a figure in dreary Ravengro who yet knows her way around Caliphas?! The questions flow with practiced, yet natural, ease as the pair's conversation begins to shift little-by-little into more of an articulate dance of words than idle banter. Incredibly, as the conversation draws to a close- forced by the urgency of Harrowstone's presence- Elian finds himself with more questions than answers about the attractive woman's past. His eyes twinkle playfully as he bids her a good day, turning his attention towards less pleasant, but greatly important matters.

[JWallyR]

Gundwolf responds sluggishly to the overtures of the townsfolk, and traces of his habitually gruff exterior can be found in the beginnings of a scowl at the first brave souls that part the fog of his contemplation. Blinking as to clear the haze of a long sleep, he sees a hopeful, but almost fearful expression in the corners of his momentary companions' eyes. Somehow he can sense their good intentions, and with what is clearly an effort of will, he smiles gently at their statements, and begins to sample the foods as suggested. With uncharacteristic graciousness, he allows himself to be directed away from the meats and toward the pastries and roasted vegetables. His reluctant sampling of unfamiliar dishes gives way to surprise, which grows into enthusiasm! As Kristoph begins his final address to the group, there is hardly a dish that has not yielded its treasures to the half-orc, and the warmth of the inn (and its company) mingles with the fullness of a belly to produce a languidly smiling half-orc.

The pleasant moment is not to last, of course, and as Kristoph reminds the gathering of their grim duty to the memory of the good Professor, Gundwolf's stoically stern expression returns to his face. With one final, longing look at the table and its bounty, he pushes away from the table and stands expectantly.

Spoiler: OOC

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No big RP, but Gundwolf is ready to move on!

[CleverDragon]

Vashian listens raptly to Kristoph's description of his upbringing, nodding thoughtfully between bites of breakfast. His eyes grow wider as Kristoph mentions Lastwall and the knight from there. "I wonder whom that could have been? You see, I - in my much more slender days, of course, haha! - was stationed with the cavalry there in Lastwall!" He points to a small pin on his collar that has the symbol of a blue star with three smaller silver stars underneath it. "The Order of the Anointed Star!" He says proudly followed by a slightly unfocused gaze, as though remembering those long-ago days. "These days I have traded in my war destrier for one that pulls a plow, but she's still the healthiest horse in town! Always have had a way with the beautiful creatures." He continues to chat heartily with Kristoph, an obviously new-found respect present for the paladin in the eyes of the head-councilman.

Meanwhile, slightly off to the side of the din of the conversation around the table, Sarianna listens to the equally soft-spoken arcanist. The inn-keeper smiles, "Oh, I have no doubt you've seen some incredibly frightening things up at that horrid prison. You've a strong will, Aurora. Stronger than mine, I daresay." She sighs, shaking her head and lowering her voice such that only Aurora can hear. "Meanwhile, here I am, a thousand or more leagues from the place of my birth and I cannot shake the fears of my past. I went through perhaps the most expensive, the most exclusive operatic academy and...pardon my boldness...excelled, but life has its way of reminding you that," she stops, a sad expression clouding her visage, "you cannot escape your decisions, no matter how far away you run."

The woman is silent for a time, staring off into the distance long enough that Aurora is unsure if the conversation is over or not. But before too much longer, Sarianna seems to shrug it off, "Perhaps I should sing more. If only a little. A little won't hurt. Right?" She says, looking to Aurora for reassurance. At the arcanist's soft nod and spoken affirmative, the barest hint of a smile curls at the sides of her lips. "I...do miss it. Perhaps I just may."

Across the room, Shanda and Elian trade witty stories and engage in subtle verbal sparring. She has such a stinging dry sarcastic wit that he can't help returning a few of his own jabs. The conversations around them seem to fade away as the two obviously skilled orators and storytellers ply their trade. At times, one laughs loud at the other's jests and comments. At some point, Shanda puts a hand up, tears sparkling in her eyes from laughter, "Peace, Elian, peace!" Her laughter continues unabated for some time until finally she pulls herself back together. "Ohh, it has been some time since I've had such an interesting conversation! It reminds me of those many years ago in the service of the crown as royal accuser. Granted, such conversations were not always enjoyable, but there was many an interesting tale to hear! And I do miss wandering the country!" He learns that she used to travel extensively in service of the crown, ferreting out admissions of guilt (or innocence) for the lords of Caliphas. "That life is long behind me now, but it was a life well-lived. I truly hope you continue yours and find whatever it is that you seek, my friend."

After he gives his thanks, she smiles and waves her hand dismissively. "Oh, think nothing of it. Just be sure that you know this town will always give you refuge if you find yourself ready to escape the daily doings. And further, if you find yourself in a scrape, I still have some old friends scattered around. I may be able to help, if even a little." She laughs again, and says, "Oh, you should see your face. It reminds me of..." and she launches into another anecdote about her travels as they continue to talk until Kristoph addresses the room.

Gundwolf's slow change in demeanor - and appetite - sparks more heartfelt recommendations from the townsfolk to try this or that food, as well as general light friendly conversation with and around him. It's perhaps the first time in a long time he's experienced such comfort and ease, and a sense of community and welcome.

Still, all good things come to an end, and the bounteous breakfast is no different. Eventually the food is mostly gone (though there's still enough leftovers for later, which Zokar is quick to remind everyone), and Kristoph's earnest plea is uttered. Vashian stands next to him and offers his hand to the paladin, looking around the rest of the table as he does so. "I have already taken the liberty of speaking with the rest of the council and most of the others also present, and they agree to your terms Kristoph. Whatever it is that we can do, I can assure you that we will. In return, we ask that you please be safe in that accursed place."

Shanda grins at Elian and absently pats him on the shoulder, and whispers to him with a slight shake of her head, "Oh look at the proud peacock. He positively could not wait to tell you all this next part."

Vashian continues unaware of or not acknowledging Shanda's comment, "And so, along those lines, we want to help keep you safe as well. We don't have much in our little village, but it doesn't mean we don't have anything. Those that own shops here in town are willing to help by offering some of the more...select items that they have. Plus, as you've done so much for the town already, we - the council - have thrown in a certain amount of coin that you may..borrow against. Moneychanging isn't my specialty, so thankfully we have our resident moneychanger here to give you the details." He gestures towards a shrewn-looking older woman with long white hair, pulled neatly back into a ponytail, and wearing spectacles.

She stands and nods towards Vashian with a bit of a bemused smirk, "Well, while I don't feel that we need this level of pomp and circumstance," her gaze lingers on the councilman, "I do feel it is vital to go over the logistics of our transaction. The council has entered into a binding agreement that you..." she describes in rather specific legal terms the agreement, which essentially gives the group 4,500 gold worth of collateral for purchasing equipment from the stores in town. The party is not required to pay back the debt, but instead the agreement hinges on the completion of their task in the prisons - "freeing the doomed souls within and eliminating the threats to the town within and around the property."

After she has concluded, she nods to the group with a measure of respect and then sits down. After a moment, she hand-waves towards Vashian, "Go on, then. Continue your dog and pony show."

Vashian chuckles, a tinge of red coloring his face, "Why thank you Quess." He turns to the group once more, "So...at risk of letting my 'show' go on any longer, are there any questions?" He stands, a bit of a proud smile on his face. Elian receives a playful elbow and a knowing look from Shanda.

After a moment more, Vashian turns back to Kristoph and says, "Oh, and...I have a personal request. Would you honor me by wearing my old armor? I sadly have no use for it - and truth be told cannot fit in it anymore - but I'm certain that you can." He nods to Zokar, who hurries into the kitchens and then comes back out with a sizable bundle wrapped in cloth and leather. The tavern-owner unwraps it to reveal a breastplate that has a similar symbol in the center of the chest-plate as that which adorns his pin. The metal has a bluish tint to it when it catches the light. "It has not seen battle in years but I have the utmost confidence that it will serve you quite well in any that you find yourself in in the future."

Spoiler: OOC

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On the Google spreadsheet, there is a tab called "Town Inventory" that lists all of the items that are for sale and their cost from the various vendors. As mentioned, you do not need to pay back the town, provided you succeed at dispatching whatever threats are within the prison still. The money is effectively similar to the sale price from Lorne's sword and a fair bit more. The money is also good for purchasing from the temple, as a result. Father Grimburrow will give you a further 20 percent discount if you purchase anything from the temple (which is already reflected on the spreadsheet).

If/when any character does a detect magic on the breastplate from Vashian, it is indeed enchanted.

For Elian:
The "boon" for having such a successful Diplomacy check with Shanda is that once during the campaign, if you're in a city or near one, you can call on her influence for some sort of minor aid. That may be a loan of money, a place to hide, some sort of political ally that will reasonably aid you, etc. The nature of your request is up to you, just so long as it's relatively harmless to the one to whom you request it. It will not provide you with an ally in battle or anything inherently dangerous.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Kristoph listens to the presentation with a satisfied expression of relief. When the legal explanation is made he listens closely but looks as if he doesn't quite understand all the terminology. After a brief explanation of the terms he nods and looks like he is about to say something.

Instead he is shocked at the head councilman's request. Standing, the usually loquacious knight appears lost for words and just looks at the fine piece of armor appreciatively. Then, kneeling and making the sign of the spiral on his chest he says, "Councilman Vashian, you deeply honor me with this...gift?" At the man's nodding response he continues, "I will be proud to wear it in memory of the noble order you once served. You will not be offended if I wear a tunic with Pharasma's spiral over it, will you? My goddess must command my first loyalty, but I will cherish this and ensure that the symbol beneath it never fades..." Looking conflicted and embarrassed at his request he finishes more quietly, "I will certainly understand if you must take back such a fine gift - please do not mistake my request as any offense..."

Bowing his head, the knight waits for the man's response, his demeanor one of deep respect and humility.

Spoiler: Mechanics? OoC?

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Kristoph needs to have the holy symbol of Pharasma displayed openly - his current armor provides this. He would proudly wear this armor with a tunic overlaid to show his religious affiliation, however...

If a Diplomacy check is necessary to not offend Vashian, here we go: Diplomacy: (1d20+9)[24]

[CleverDragon]

Vashian puts his hand outward, palm outward and shakes his head, "Oh, no my good man. I take no offense from it at all. The knowledge that you wear it satisfies my request more than enough. Thank you for this honor." He says with a bow that is stiff from age and poor daily regimen, but still honest and earnest in its intent.

[Farmerbink]

Elian smiles, his impeccably shaven jawline elegantly framing a careful display of the least unusual portions of his teeth as Shanda continues to banter quietly during Vashian's speech. More than a few times, he casts subtle glances towards the councilwoman, continuing to develop his impressions.

He politely (and deliberately) offers his attention to the moneylender, making no effort to hide his surprise at the undeniably generous terms of their agreement. For a moment, he appears a hair worried, as if waiting for the anticipated demands. When they come and it's nothing more than they planned to do anyway, his shocked expression turns towards Kristoph. Meeting the paladin's gaze, he smiles, offering a simple nod of support for the party's agreement.

His eyes continue to scan the room, now trying to decide if the council's offer is founded more on foolishness or generosity. As Vashian prattles on, now directed at Kristoph, he's beginning to reach the conclusion that perhaps equal parts are at play.

Zokar begins to unwrap some bundle, and draws Elian's attention to the activity. The bard's eyes widen at the display of a clearly well-made breastplate. His eyes immediately go back to Vashian, and gleans from context (having ignored most of the declaration of such) that the now-overweight councilman not only once wore the armor, but clearly maintained it well. Not the soft old man I took him to be, then. Not by any measure! His eyes once again turn to the other councillors, now considering them in a totally different light.

Kristoph accepts the plate, with his usual dose of humility and reverence, and Elian slowly rises. His face takes on an odd expression as he notices eyes turned towards him. "I feel..." He looks to his companions, their own surprise and awe self evident. "We are humbled by your generosity, councillors. And for myself, I feel I owe you an apology. When we first arrived, I felt we would be honoring a friend's parting and leaving naught more than another backwater village in our footsteps, but you have proven that Ravengro is much more. You make it much more, by your care and deeds." He shakes his head, visibly embarrassed to be admitting such an awkward prejudice.

"I was wrong to judge you so quickly, and apologize. We first intended to cleanse the blight of Harrowstone simply because it was right. The professor died struggling against the forces therein, perhaps in part because he strove to carry the burden himself, and we aimed to finish what he started. With your help, and blessing, we will succeed where he was unable, not only because it is right, but because you deserve it." He nods slowly, meeting each of the councillor's eyes briefly. With a simple smile, and a wistful expression for the lost friend. Unable to find the words to adequately express himself, he finishes his own brief response: "Thank you, all of you."

[DarkOne-Rob]

"Oh, no my good man. I take no offense from it at all. The knowledge that you wear it satisfies my request more than enough. Thank you for this honor."

With a grateful look Kristoph rises and returns to his seat, an expression of deeply felt emotions playing across his face. He listens to Elian's response and nods, not trusting himself to speak as the moment threatens to overwhelm him. The half-elf's fingers play along the gifted breastplate idly as Kristoph's eyes become unfocused and he mumbles a prayer, "Lady of Graves, enlighten me with your insight into this fine gift - how will it protect me as I perform your will?"

Spoiler: Mechanics

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I would have Kristoph dast Detect Magic and use Spellcraft (1d20+6)[24] to determine the magical properties of the breastplate, but he doesn't know that spell. However, I will make the roll and see where that gets me...

Spoiler: OoC

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Kristoph just got a nice item of some kind, so I am not going to claim any of the cash advance yet. Once everyone else has an opportunity to chime in on their desires I will express mine.

[Farmerbink]

A short time later, Elian has begun visiting the various shops to take their owners up on their generous offer. In particular, while perusing the offerings of Luramin Taigh's "Silk Purse," he looks on the goods with unmasked interest. "What does this do," he asks of the shopkeep, pointing towards a fairly large gemstone. "The quartz?"

[JWallyR]

"[COLOR="#008000"]...We - the council - have thrown in a certain amount of coin that you may..borrow against.

Gundwolf's brows furrow at the mention of "borrowing" coin... but as the resident moneychanger elaborates on the conditions and it becomes clear that the risk is little more than had already been considered by the half-orc and his growing circle of friends and acquaintances, a grudging appreciation creeps onto the half-orc's chiseled face. A muscular arm curls upward, and Gundwolf begins to absentmindedly scratch at the stubble of his chin while lost in a look of contemplation as the remainder of the meeting winds down.

As the members of the party diverge to the shops that most pique their interest, Gundwolf finds himself drawn to the smithy. The tangy smell of worked iron tingles in his nostrils as he surveys the goods in the storefront. A few bladed weapons fail to capture the half-orc's interest, but he notices an unornamented but serviceable breastplate draped across a framework. The half-orc looks down appraisingly at his worn leather harness, with its bits of leather and scavenged hide that have provided what protection the half-orc has enjoyed in his wanderings thus far. With a resolved expression, he approaches the shopkeeper, jerking one thumb over his shoulder at the armor. "How much is that?"

Spoiler: OOC

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I'm aware it's 200GP but I'm choosing to write stuff out as an opportunity for RP interaction, yada yada. Gundwolf's gonna buy it.

After the negotiations for the bit of armor are complete, the half-orc turns to the blades, some of which are clearly of greater quality than the rank-and file. "These blades seem... well-made, but risen skeletons fear not a blade. One of those," he gestures to an unremarkable warhammer, "but... bigger, and heavier, would be perfect. Could such a thing be made, and with the same workmanship as the best of your blades?"

Spoiler: OOC

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Gundwolf wants to commission a Masterwork Earthbreaker, for 340GP.

Having concluded his business with the smith, Gundwolf considers the remainder of his options. After perusing the general store with disinterest and declining to further explore the temple of Pharasma, he eyes the sign of the Unfurling scroll with something akin to suspicion. For a moment his fingers twitch toward the haft of his flail, but with a visible effort of will he steels himself, and walks in through the front door.

Eyeing the displays of scrolls and wands with an odd mixture of confusion and hostility, the half-orc turns to the small collection of more comprehensible items. After poking probingly at a floating stone that gives off the light of a torch, the half-orc turns to see a cloak that seems to shine with an unexpected luster. He turns to Alendru (who seems to be watching him with guarded caution), and gestures at the cloak. "I don't... keep with much magic. Is that just a cloak, or...?" The open-ended question hangs in the still air of the shop.

Spoiler: OOC

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I think the fact that it helps to repel enemy magic is going to make Gundwolf unexpectedly enthusiastic about a cloak of resistance, so feel free to play it up.
Otherwise, that's another 1000 GP, for a running total of 1540 GP. At 1/3 of the 4500, Gundwolf will be covering the last 40 out of his personal reserves.

[DarkOne-Rob]

As the rest of the party goes about their shopping, Kristoph stays behind. Looking at the gathered crowd he finds his would-be squire, Bryce. Upon seeing him he calls out, "Bryce! Come here - I have your first lesson as a squire..." He then explains to the young boy how a squire helps his knight remove and don armor. After answering a couple of questions the paladin then gestures at himself and says, "Let's try it. Councilman Vashian has kindly offered me the use of his old armor. With his help and yours, I would like to put it one in place of my scale mail. Let's begin."

After several minutes of hard work, during which time the councilman has to guide Bryce as much as Kristoph did, the trio gets the armor in place and the straps adjusted. The boy looks proudly at the Pharasmin paladin and grins at his parents. Stretching and moving, Kristoph says, "Well done, Bryce. And thank you, Vashian. Before I go and get a tunic from the temple, may I ask how this is enchanted? It feels quite amazing - I have never worn enchanted armor before." At the paladin's words, Bryce's eyes grow wide in amazement and the boy's mouth hangs open in shock. Several of the townsfolk giggle good naturedly at the boy's reaction before they turn to listen intently to the councilman's answer.

Spoiler: OoC

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Kristoph cannot identify the armor without help. Can one of the other PCs help or can Vashian tell Kristoph about the armor's enchantment?

The rest is just RP for Kristoph donning the armor and engaging with Bryce.

[CleverDragon]

The councilors meet Elian's eyes as he issues his apology and admission. They returns his apology with a mixture of guilty, strained and yet earnest smiles as they realize - and then admit - that they too held similar prejudices against the group. Shanda rises and puts a hand on the man's shoulder and gives a conciliatory smile, "Please my friend. Rest assured that we are similarly aggrieved of our own preconceived notions against you and - just as bad if not worse - one of our own," she says, referencing the recently deceased professor. The rest of the people at the table offer similar reparations for their past treatment of the group and accept Elian's apology as well.

Meanwhile, Kristoph takes a moment to beseech the Grey Lady for Her wisdom and insight about the armor, but none comes. However, he definitely notices that there are very small arcane markings along the edges of the armor here and there, so it's definitely magical, but he cannot determine much more than that.

In time, the breakfast is adjourned and fond farewells are said as everyone goes about their daily business. The door to the tavern opens, each time allowing a cold breeze from outside reminding the residents of Zokar's warm tavern that winter is still not yet ready to release its grip on the area.

*******
Bryce comes forward eagerly and attempts to help Kristoph as best he can, obeying his new master's instructions as well as the former owner's helpful hints. Vashian seems to cotton on as to what's happening rather quickly, and tries to remove himself from the process as much as possible, allowing the knight to lecture and instruct his new squire alone. However, at times, Vashian steps forward and helps, offering tips about how to manipulate the leather straps due to years of previous experience.

As Bryce grins wide as Kristoph is finally fully adorned in the beautifully made armor. "You like a true knight in that armor!" He blushes and then stutters, "err...sir! You look great....uh...sir!"

Then, when Kristoph asks his question of the councilman, Bryce's expression turns to shock and amazement at the concept of real magic armor! Vashian tussles the boy's hair and chuckles, and then nods at Kristoph "Indeed, my lad. I had worn that armor for nigh on three years before it had been enchanted! The magic was a reward for a successful rescue of...an important personage from the orc stronghold of Throk'Anvor. From what I understand, it is magic that bolsters the hardness of the steel. But as to the actual nature of the enchantment, I apologize my boy - I really do not know."

Spoiler: OOC

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It is a breastplate +1

*************

With a resolved expression, he approaches the shopkeeper, jerking one thumb over his shoulder at the armor. "How much is that?"

Jorfa is quite similar to Gundwolf in many ways. She is a woman of few words. She's not necessarily rude, but why say ten words when one will do? The skilled dwarven smith putters around the smithy, tending to her tools and stoking the fire in the forge as Gundwolf wanders around the various weapon and armor stands. She's in the process of putting on her stained, thick smithing apron as Gundwolf asks his question. She looks where the half-orc gestured while tying the straps around her waist. "The breastplate?" At his nod, she says simply, "Two hundred."

When Gundwolf indicates that he'll take it, she says, "Take that...armor off, then. Stand right there." She points next to a worn wooden stool. As he looks at her with suspicious eyes, she sighs, "For...your...fitting. Unless you want loose straps?" Chastised, he takes his place by the stool while Jorfa gathers the armor from the stand and then steps up on the stool. She spends the next several minutes adjusting the straps of the armor and instructing the half-orc how to don and remove the armor. After she's done, he definitely feels the unfamiliar weight of the armor start to become much more comfortably distributed across his shoulders and while it's not nearly as flexible and supple as his leather and hide, it's surprisingly well-made and he has better maneuverability than he expected. With a grunt, she nods. "It suits ya," and then steps off of the stool and carries his old armor off to the wooden counter.

When Gundwolf asks about crafting a bigger and heavier hammer, she gets a knowing grin. "Oh, I think I know exactly what you need. Never made one before though. But for one with your height and strength? Not a skeleton will exist that won't fear its mass. Anything special you want about it otherwise? A design? Family crest?."

Spoiler: Gundwolf

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Do you want the masterwork earthbreaker to have a certain look and design? I kind of like how this one looks such that the flat of the hammer is on one side and the spikes are on the other side. But ultimately its up to you if you want it to look a certain way and/or have any designs worked into it.

Some time later, after Gundwolf relayed his order's specific details, he finds himself in the Unfurling Scroll, looking uncomfortably at the sundry magical goods there. Alendru has a mixture of suspicion and growing bemusement as he begins to understand that the half-orc is just put at ill ease around magic. When he asks about the cloak, the mage gets a bit of a grin. "I think you need a drink, sir." And without a moment to question why, the mage disappears into another room for a moment and then comes back with a simple mug of water and hands it to the confused half-orc. At which point, Alendru holds the cloth in his hands. "Now. Dump that mug on the cloak! No. Really. Go on."

A confused moment later, the half-orc shrugs and complies and then dumps the contents of the mug on the cloak. Or, at least, he tries to. The end of the cloak seems to move of its own accord to avoid the water from falling on it, fluttering out of the way with an unseen breeze. "See! It's definitely no meager sewn length of cloth! It helps you avoid calamity, if only by a meager amount. It may wrap around you to protect you from flame and ice, push you out of the way from falling dangers, and more. They seem to have a...preternatural awareness and help you avoid that which may harm you. More powerful versions of these cloaks exist, but this is only the most simple variety. But, you will certainly find it invaluable in your travels." After a pause, he says, "Interested? It will cost you a thousand of the offered amount by the council."

***********
Luramin's "Silk Purse" is also co-owned by the older woman that Elian saw at the breakfast, Quess. He sees the two moneylenders behind the counter. While Quess is tending to some ledgers, Luramin is dusting off the shelves of various odd goods here and there, one of which is a small carved gem that has a small label that simply says, "Smoky Quartz."

When Elian asks his question, the older man has a quizzical gaze, "I'm sorry? What does it do? My good man, it's just a finely carved gem. I suppose it would make a nice fitting on a pendant. That would be a good purpose for it, as good as any. Either way, it was offered as collateral by a farmer several years ago and was never repurchased. So, it's available to you, should you wish to acquire it."

Spoiler: Image of the stone

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It looks something like this.

[Farmerbink]

"My good man, it's just a finely carved gem...."

Elian looks to Luramin with an unsure scowl. "Are you quite sure? It looks..." He shakes his head briefly. "May I cast a simple divination?" At the shopkeeper's acceptance, Elian quickly speaks a short incantation, opening his eyes to the auras at play.

[CleverDragon]

Luramin shrugs as if to say, "If you wish," and goes about his business around the small display area. Elian's eyes briefly glow with a golden light as the divination magic is called upon and he quickly sees that there is a quite strong magical emanation coming from the gem.

Spoiler: OOC

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It has a "strong" aura. To determine the school of magic, you'll need a Spellcraft check.