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

[JWallyR]

Gundwolf lets out a raspy shriek as the flaming projectiles sear his back. Spinning to the rear and glaring hatred, the half-orc reaches for an abandoned chair and flings it toward the nearer of the hated foes before allowing Kristoph's extended arm to pull him slightly towards the door.

Spoiler: Actions

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Mechanically, Gundwolf readies an improvised thrown projectile, throws it, and takes a partial move toward the exit.

Attack: (1d20)[14] (includes -4 penalty for nonproficiency)
CC: (1d20)[2] for x2 on 20
Damage: Whatever the appropriate die roll would be for, say, a chair (or another unattended object if closer) plus 6 for current strength bonus
Crit damage: see above

Spoiler: Stats

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Gundwolf
M Chaotic Neutral Half-Orc Barbarian 3, Level 3, Init 2, HP 31/47, DR 0, Speed 30
AC 13, Touch 9, Flat-footed 12, CMD 17, Fort 9, Ref 2, Will 4, CMB +9, Base Attack Bonus 3
Trip, Disarm Heavy Flail Melee (1d10+Str*1.5, 19-20, x2)
Dagger Melee (1d4+Str, 19-20, x2)
Sling (Bullets x 50) Ranged (1d4+Str, x2)
Hide Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Dex, -2 Misc)
Abilities Str 22, Dex 12, Con 22, Int 10, Wis 12, Cha 7
Condition Raging: +4 Str, +6 Con, +2 Will saves, -2 AC (9 additional HP temporarily added)

[CleverDragon]

Fonts of water spring from Kristoph's hands, dousing a portion of the flames nearest him at the entrance, but the fire rages on and continues to grow and consume the meeting hall. Gundwolf's makeshift projectile hurtles end over end towards the cackling, floating head but misses, crashing into the burning wall behind it. In response, the creatures close in slightly - bobbing through the air - and then lob more balls of flame. This time the holy servant of Pharasma seems to have caught their attention and two balls of flame rush towards Kristoph. He dodges the first one, which impacts with the wall behind him, but leaves himself open to the full brunt of the second one, which burns painfully into his left shoulder and chest.

Father Grimburrow's large eyebrows furrow deeply and he appears ready to retort to the preposterous idea that his prayers aren't for anyone, but then he sees the grave state of Kristoph and Gundwolf at the threshold of the meeting hall and the admonishment fades from his lips. Elian and Ra'Hulhrim successfully evade the priest, who instead holds aloft his pendant and asks his deity for intercession, "Our Lady of Mysteries, soothe the defenders of our town!" With that, another pulse of holy energy radiates out, bathing Aurora, Gundwolf and Kristoph in healing energy.

A half-second later, Leone scowls at the burning interior of the building as the floating menaces come into view. She charges into the room, heedless of the growing flames, and holds aloft her holy symbol. Her voice is full of authority and conviction as she yells, "BEGONE!!!" A roll of power similar to the elder priest's emanates from her, though weaker in potency. It slams into both of the floating heads, causing them to bob in mid-air as if dangling on a spring, and they screech in hatred as the flesh and parts of the bone sizzle and rise in gray-black tendrils of smoke. Still, the magic keeping them animated persists, and the hateful glares she receives makes it immediately evident that she is their next intended victim.

Spoiler: OOC All

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Summary:
Gundwolf's attack misses.
Kristoph puts out the square of fire nearest him, but takes 6 damage from the flaming skull.
Kristoph, Aurora and Gundwolf are all healed for 11 points by Father Grimburrow.
Leone moves to E9 and channels energy, harming undead. Skull 1 saves, Skull 2 does not. Skull 1 takes 1 points of damage while Skull 2 takes 3 points of damage.

It's players' turn now!

[DarkOne-Rob]

Spoiler: Round 6, Kristoph's Status

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Kristoph Harrisson
Male Lawful Good Half-Elf Paladin 2/Oracle 1, Level 3, Init 2, HP 17/31, Speed 30 ft. Base
AC 18, Touch 11, Flat-footed 18, CMD 14, Fort 9, Ref 4, Will 9, CMB +4, Base Attack Bonus 2
Longsword (N/A) +4 (1d8+2, 19-20/x2) (+1 Damage vs. Undead )
Scale Mail, Heavy Steel Shield (+5 Armor, +2 Shield, +0 Dex, +1 Natural)
Abilities Str 14, Dex 10, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 7, Cha 18
Condition Lay on Hands 5/5 Used
Smite Evil 1/1 Used

With a surprised start Kristoph watches Leone bravely face the flaming skulls. "Sister Leone, watch out for their unholy, flaming belches!" he cries as he moves beside her and continues his prayers, dousing any flames beginning to threaten the priestess.

Spoiler: Mechanics

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Move adjacent to Leone, cast Create Water - focusing in keeping the squares in which characters can be found clear of flames - and hopefully draw the attack of at least one skull...

[MuffinMan]

Closing her spellbook, Aurora looks up to find Elian out of immediate danger and breathes a sigh of relief before noticing the struggle at the building's entrance. She sees that the undead are floating high amidst the flames, out of range of her allies' blades, and decides to fetch help. "Dreamstrider! Elian! We need your bows at the entrance - Kristoph and Gundwolf cannot reach through the flames!" As she passes Elian she casts a spell and pours negative energy into his battered frame. "If anyone asks, you drank a curative potion!" she whispers.

Spoiler: Actions

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Move outside to Elian and Ra'Hulhrim, speak, and cast Inflict Light Wounds (spending an arcane point for +2 caster level) to heal Elian for (1d8+5)[8]

[JWallyR]

In his frenzied state, Gundwolf gives Leone a wide-eyed stare before grinning uncannily at the apparent shift in strategy. Fixing a hate-filled stare at the nearest of the skulls, the half-orc springs across the intervening feet, sweeping his flail from its loop and bringing it down in a crushing attack toward the foe!

Spoiler: Actions

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Fort save passed in Die Roll thread to avoid coughing etc.
Move to O,20

Power Attack:
Attack: (1d20+8)[26]
CC: (1d20+8)[22] for x2 on 27+
Damage: (1d10+12)[21]
Crit damage: (1d10+12)[13]

AoO, if applicable:
Attack: (1d20+8)[17]
CC: (1d20+8)[12] for x2 on 27+
Damage: (1d10+12)[19]
Crit damage: (1d10+12)[21]

Gundwolf
M Chaotic Neutral Half-Orc Barbarian 3, Level 3, Init 2, HP 42/47, DR 0, Speed 30
AC 13, Touch 9, Flat-footed 12, CMD 17, Fort 9, Ref 2, Will 4, CMB +9, Base Attack Bonus 3
Trip, Disarm Heavy Flail Melee (1d10+Str*1.5, 19-20, x2)
Dagger Melee (1d4+Str, 19-20, x2)
Sling (Bullets x 50) Ranged (1d4+Str, x2)
Hide Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Dex, -2 Misc)
Abilities Str 22, Dex 12, Con 22, Int 10, Wis 12, Cha 7
Condition Raging: +4 Str, +6 Con, +2 Will saves, -2 AC (9 additional HP temporarily added)

[marrok]

"Dreamstrider! Elian! We need your bows at the entrance - Kristoph and Gundwolf cannot reach through the flames!"

Rushing back through the doorway with an arrow nocked, Dreamstrider growls at the townsfolk under his breath, "Move... get out of the shot...".

"It's useless! I can't get a clean shot! Too much smoke, too many bodies!"

Spoiler: Actions

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He'll double move back into the room in the doorway, if he can get there.

[Farmerbink]

In the space of an instant, Elian's expression runs the gamut from objection to Aurora's scatterbrained suggestion, confusion at her whispered advice, and surprise at the results of her ministrations. Time too short to formulate a proper phrase, he simply nods before turning back towards the fray. He reaches over his shoulder to ready his crossbow as he warily strides towards the burning room.

Spoiler: Elian, round 5

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Elian Evenstarr
M NG Dhampir Blood Bard, Level 3, Init +5, HP 10/18, DR cold res 5, DR 5/- nonlethal, Speed 30
AC 16, Touch 13, Flat-footed 13, CMD 14, Fort 1, Ref 6, Will 2, CMB +1, Base Attack Bonus 2
Light crossbow (18 bolts) +5 (1d8, 19-20/x2)
Dagger +1 or +5 (1d4-1, 19-20/x2)
Studded Leather (+3 Armor, +3 Dex)
Abilities Str 9, Dex 16, Con 10, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 18
ConditionBlood is life: 7/7
Bard Spells, 4/4 1st level remaining
Familiar, House Centipede: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=169452

Receive "healing." Double move, using the second to draw my weapon.

[CleverDragon]

The cackling skull in front of Gundwolf explodes mid-shriek into dozens of fragments, the glob of fire that it had been forming in its mouth clings to the end of Gundwolf's flail for a few moments. Meanwhile, Leone hoists her pendant high in the air and glares hatefully at the last remaining skull. She yells aloud, "Pharasma take you!!" as another ripple of holy energy emits from her pendant. The last skull screeches in pain and wobbles in the air as the last remnants of flesh sizzle and peel from its bones and then the bones themselves turn to ash in a burst of holy blue fire. She lowers the pendant to her chest and cradles it, her head dipping for a moment as she solemnly says loud enough for only Gundwolf and Kristoph to hear, "That was for you, Chad."

With the imminent threat of the undead foes vanquished, the three divine servants - Kristoph, Leone and Father Grimburrow - begin to douse the heavily fire-ravaged areas with magically summoned water. Meanwhile, the bucket brigade begins to provide further water to the efforts, with runners grabbing expended buckets and dashing them back to the wells. Amidst all of this, some adults and children outside of the meeting hall are terrified if not openly sobbing in shock from the attack. The councilors, Sheriff Caeller and some of the heroes tend to those beleaguered individuals while others assist with the organization of the fire brigade and keeping people from harm.

After a few minutes of tiring effort, the fire has been brought under control and a few minutes after that, the smouldering remnants are entirely doused and the town hall has been saved from destruction! Many, many people approach the various newcomers to town, hugging them and shaking their hands and profusely thanking them for saving their lives, saving a relative and/or helping the town against the now very evident threat. A few brave souls even swallow their pride and issue heartfelt apologies for their earlier actions and statements, including a couple of the members of the initial mob at the professor's funeral those many days ago.

Bryce and Isaac Fenlorn give Kristoph a tight embrace, the latter giving full permission for the former to be trained by Kristoph, should the offer still be on the table. Leone goes to join Aurora in her attempts to help the rest of the town members and gives her a squeeze on the shoulder in wordless thanks. Sheriff Caeller seeks out Gundwolf and claps the barbarian on the shoulder firmly and nods. "I'm sorry. And thank you," he says a bit awkwardly and yet sincerely. Father Grimburrow seeks out Elian and places a hand on his shoulder, "I do not know why that one said my prayers are not for you, but I don't care. You - all of you - are part of my flock and you'll have my prayers and support," the heavily wrinkled old man smiles, "whether you want them or not." His gnarled hand squeezes Elian's shoulder gently and then the elder priest wanders off to tend to the rest of his "flock". Kendra runs over and hugs Ra'Hulhrim tightly and gives him a kiss on the cheek. "I...you...all of you, did great! Father would be immensely proud!"

After the chaos dies down and the villagers begin to disperse back to their homes after being tended to by Father Grimburrow and the other faithful of Pharasma, including Kristoph, Vashian Hearthmount gestures for them to gather close. "It is very humbling to be so wrong about so many people. I do so hope you will accept my most sincere of apologies. We are incredibly fortunate to have you here in our little village. Furthermore, I would request you join me and the rest of the council for breakfast at the Laughing Demon. We have much to discuss, but now is not the time. For now, rest. You have most decidedly earned it." After hearing their response, the large man bids them good evening and slowly walks back to his house.

Spoiler: OOC

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Well done! You've saved everyone in town and kept the town hall from being destroyed! Feel free to roleplay how you react to any/all of the above and anything else you may wish to do.

[JWallyR]

Letting out a peal of shrill laughter as a flaming skull shatters beneath his flail, Gundwolf's wide eyes turn in time to see the effects of Leone's divine energy on the other. For a few heartbeats, his eyes dart from the shattered windows to the charred and discarded furniture and everything between. Seeing that no proper object remains for the exercise of his anger, the half-orc blinks, and begins to relax- and suddenly the smoke that had so provoked his ire rakes at his throat, strained further by his instinctive battle-cries, and he begins to stumble woodenly toward the room's exit. Only momentarily interrupting the chain of buckets being passed toward the blaze, he lurches toward a wall, bracing himself against it with one arm while his flail dangles loosely in the other.

After several seconds, Gundwolf finds himself sitting on the floor, leaning against the wall. No longer breathing as heavily, he looks at Kristoph and the other devotees of Pharasma being aided by the townsfolk in combating the flames within, and gauges them sufficient. Shortly, the flames are vanquished; the barbarian watches as the townsfolk begin to celebrate and mingle with the rest of the party. At first it seems as though the pronounced canines and stern gaze on his face will ward off any such overtures, but the half-orc's wary gaze rises to meet that of Sheriff Caeller as the latter steps toward him.

"I'm sorry. And thank you."

Gundwolf's eyes widen, and his eyes turn to the rest of the party, where Kristoph kneels, comforting a townswoman, still distraught from the ordeal. After a moment of thought, an expression of determination solidifies on his face, and he extends a hand to the Sheriff, who helps the muscular half-orc to his feet. With a low rumble, he replies, "For the professor. This was his home." Reaching over to grasp the man's shoulder in kind, the half-orc gives a short nod of acknowledgment before releasing him to join with the party in helping the townsfolk recover from the chaos.

[DarkOne-Rob]

"That was for you, Chad."

As Leone and Grimburrow join him, Kristoph leans close enough to the priestess for her to hear him and says, "The Lady of Graves has surely smiled down upon us this night. You have honored Chad's memory, and we are blessed that you were here." He then continues to fight the fire, respectfully giving the woman distance after it is over and not mentioning the private moment again.

Bryce and Isaac Fenlorn give Kristoph a tight embrace, the latter giving full permission for the former to be trained by Kristoph, should the offer still be on the table.

"There will be time to discuss that later. For now, Pharasma, in her wisdom, has seen fit to give us all another day of this life. Let us appreciate it gratefully. Tonight, spend time in prayer with your family, Bryce, and revel in their love and good memories. Remember, 'Not this year, not yet,' and be at peace. When this business is ready to pass on to the good people of Ravengro we will speak on this again. Until then, be a good and obedient son," Kristoph says, a faux-stern expression on his face and a twinkle in his eyes as he directs the young boy. Then, with a genuine smile he grips Isaac's hand and makes the spiral of Pharasma on his own chest in salute to the man and his son. Bryce's responding salute is performed enthusiastically and perfectly back to the knight.

Gundwolf's eyes widen, and his eyes turn to the rest of the party, where Kristoph kneels, comforting a townswoman, still distraught from the ordeal.

Out of the corner of his eye Kristoph sees Gundwolf and Sheriff Caeller and smiles, but does not move to interrupt them, instead continuing to minister to the traumatized townfolk.

"Furthermore, I would request you join me and the rest of the council for breakfast at the Laughing Demon. We have much to discuss, but now is not the time."

Kristoph nods and replies, "Of course, Councilman Hearthmount - we are all committed to this endeavor, and your support will be essential to its success. As best you are able, have a restful evening, sir."

[MuffinMan]

Aurora helps to minister to the wounded and shell-shocked townspeople as the recovery efforts get underway, her skinny frame not well suited to the task of hauling water buckets. Her hair is in disarray and her clothing is more covered with soot and ash than not when Leone comes to find her among the wounded and offers her gesture of support - Aurora responds with a full-on bear hug! "Oh, Leone, you were great back there! I was so scared of the fire, and then those things - but you showed them! We're lucky we had you with us tonight!" She sighs deeply and leans against the other woman, grateful for the momentary support of not having to bear her own weight unassisted.

As the townsfolk begin to disperse she suddenly remembers another member of the party, and dashes off in search of Elian. "Elian, there you are! How are your wounds! Did it-? Oh, um- Did it help? The spell, I mean - I can do it again if you're still hurt!"

Spoiler: "Healing" Elian

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Aurora offers to cast more Inflict Light Wounds spells (as discreetly as possible) to heal Elian if he still needs it (which I think he does).
Two castings, using an Arcane Point for +2 CL on the first:
(1d8+5)[13]
(1d8+3)[10]

[Farmerbink]

Father Grimburrow seeks out Elian and places a hand on his shoulder, "I do not know why that one said my prayers are not for you, but I don't care..."

Elian sighs as the inexorable weight of cursed heritage once again alights on his shoulders. The frantic urgency of a few minutes battling undead and flame alike having pushed less urgent thoughts to the background, Elian self-consciously inspects his person for any overt indications of his nature. Just as the priest is about to depart, Elian reaches out a hand and places it on the man's wrist. "No." He shakes his head sullenly. "That... That is not good enough. You deserve to know, but..." Looking about the scene, it is apparent that there are more onlookers than are comfortable. "Perhaps I can meet with you privately tonight?"

He sighs as the elderly cleric departs, already tentatively regretting his insistence. He's almost caught off guard when Aurora approaches, but he finds his wits quickly enough to offer her a welcoming, thankful smile. He shakes his head at her new offer. "I think, perhaps, it would be wisest to wait until we retire to Miss Lorrimor's." His conspiratorial whisper is banished when the councilman steps forward, humbling himself before the party at large.

Elian smiles warmly, and offers a hand to shake. "I am quite sure I speak for all of us when I say that your apology is accepted. Breakfast sounds lovely. I, for one, look forward to it." The twinkling in his eye is the only hint of Elian's unexpected foray into what appears to be high society. Meeting a councilman for breakfast?!? In wonder, Elian makes ready to depart for rest, recovery, and perhaps a less-than-pleasant dialogue...

[marrok]

He sighs as the elderly cleric departs...His conspiratorial whisper is banished when the councilman steps forward.

Seeing the councilman approach, he takes the opportunity to speak with Elian. Leaning in close, clapping a hand on Elian's shoulder, so that others cannot hear, "Elian. I hope you understand. I kept your secret as best I could in the thick of the chaos. I feared if I said nothing, well... I don't have enough friends to take those sorts of risks."


As the elf turns to walk away from Elian:

Kendra runs over and hugs Ra'Hulhrim tightly and gives him a kiss on the cheek. "I...you...all of you, did great! Father would be immensely proud!"

The elf turns scarlet and stammers a string on inaudible nonsense. He looks at Elian. "I... uh... well... Del'dretch. I need to see if he's alright. He's felt _this_ surely upset."
He turns and walks a half-dozen paces before rushing back to Kendra, awkwardly dropping to one knew, kisses her hand, "Lady Kendra, your words are kind."

Dreamstrider fumbles to his feat, and exits the smoky hall. He whistles shrilly a few times while he undoes his charred shirt and drops it to the ground. A large black bird flies to his side and he buries his hand in the inky black feathers.

[CleverDragon]

Isaac nods to Kristoph, "I believe that we'll be doing a lot of that. I can't," he sighs and gathers his thoughts, "...can't believe there has been so many strange things happening of late. We'd be right idiots if we didn't thank the powers that be for our safety. And you lot, 'course." The man gives Kristoph an earnest look and then ruffles his son's hair and beckons him to come with him on their way home.

Leone widens her eyes in surprise at the hug but returns it no less fervently. She pulls back from hug and chuckles, shaking her head, "I don't think it's lucky that I was there. I think the town's much luckier for you," she says, looking around at how the various townsfolk have survived the night and at Kristoph's quiet conversation with the Fenlorns, Gundwolf's moment with the Sheriff, Elian's exchange with the high priest and Dreamstrider's awkward conversation with Kendra. She gives the young arcane adept another brief hug and then chuckles as she runs off after Elian, then begins to help administer to the remaining villagers.

Meanwhile, Father Grimburrow looks back as his wrist is caught in Elian's grip. He is about to inquire as to the reason and then quietly listens as Elian makes his request with slightly furrowed bushy brows. He pats the young man's hand with his own and nods, "Son, you have no need to explain anything. But, I would not refuse an opportunity to bend an ear when asked. I shall call by the Lorrimor house later, after this whole mess is sorted out," he says, indicating the activity around them. After listening to Elian's response, he nods and then looks over the man's shoulder and yells, "Dmitri! Slow down and watch where yer goin', boy!" A boy of ten or eleven years of age blushes and slows to a fast walk, barely missing a pile of buckets.

Del'dretch lands heavily and practically tackles Dreamstrider, cawing a few times concernedly before being placated by the druid's pets and reassuring whispers. Kendra watches from the side in amusement as the two reunite and then makes her way over to Gundwolf and the sheriff. "Nice to see you two getting along so well," she says with a chuckle, and then her face grows more serious. "You look a fright, Gundwolf. Come, there's not much left to be done 'round here. Let's go settle and relax, shall we?" She looks down at the flail hanging heavily in the man's hand. "Here, let me help you with that?" She reaches for the flail, offering to carry it back to the house.

Later

The sun has long set. A chill wind blows through the village as winter has yet to lose its grip on the area, but at this point nearly everyone is inside, enjoying the warmth of their hearths and the company of family and friends. Similarly, the group is gathered in the living room and relaxing at the Lorrimor house, enjoying their respite after the rather eventful, if not stressful day. A fire crackles in the hearth and a few lamps have been lit throughout the living and dining area, bathing the rooms in a warm and inviting light. They have had the opportunity to wash the soot from their skin and their clothes as best as possible. When necessary, the professor's wardrobe has been accessed to provide comfortable and clean clothing.

Kendra has arranged an assortment of light snacks, like fruits, cheese, bread and similar finger foods as well as some hot tea and even a bottle of the Professor's red wine. "I think father would think this an apropos time for this." She pours a few fingers of wine for each guest that wishes for some and then lifts her glass to everyone and then levels her eyes on Ra'Hulhrim, "To good friends and the dearly departed."

[JWallyR]

Kendra makes her way over to Gundwolf and the sheriff. "Nice to see you two getting along so well," she says with a chuckle, and then her face grows more serious. "You look a fright, Gundwolf. Come, there's not much left to be done 'round here. Let's go settle and relax, shall we?" She looks down at the flail hanging heavily in the man's hand. "Here, let me help you with that?" She reaches for the flail, offering to carry it back to the house.

Gundwolf turns from his soldierly acknowledgment of the sheriff to... smile down on the young woman. The gentle look of relief at her safety and comfort at her words is particularly incongruous on the half-orc's face amidst the soot on his face and the wild tangle of his sweat-soaked hair. "If you wish it." As Kendra reaches toward the flail, he gently pulls it back before returning it to its loop. "No- it's much heavier than it looks." The wistful, but confused look on the half-orc's face evinces some emotion hiding beneath the rugged exterior that the half-orc appears unable to express, but Kendra's gentle laughter and murmured, "You're welcome, just the same." bring the gentle smile back to his lips. The hulking half-orc gestures toward where the rest of the party is gathering for the trip back to the Lorrimor residence, and with a smile and nod, Kendra precedes him in joining.

[DarkOne-Rob]

"To good friends and the dearly departed."

Kristoph raises his glass quietly, his usual enthusiasm worn down by the exhaustion of the day. He has long since removed his weapons, though he maintains a grip on Lorne's blade - still in its secured sheath - his obvious concern too much to allow him to discard it. "Elian, did I overhear Father Grimburrow say that he would be coming by later tonight?" he asks, after several minutes of silent prayer and meditation on the state of things. It is clear that his usual tendency to celebrate life has been dulled somewhat, and that he wishes to be rid of the weapon that so concerns him. "I would like to speak with him about this blade and Lorne, when you are done..."

[Farmerbink]

"l... I don't have enough friends to take those sorts of risks."

Elian smiles weakly, knowing full-well the gravity of the druid's words.

Later, Elian fidgets with an unusual listlessness as they try to unwind. He starts when Kristoph asks his question. "Ah, yes. He did mention that. I see no reason you would be unable to take a moment of his time..." Elian's gaze returns to his tea, gently steaming in the chill of late evening.

Spoiler: OOC

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If there's no objection, I'd like to officially accept Aurora's aid back in the Lorrimor estate.

[MuffinMan]

Kendra has arranged an assortment of light snacks, like fruits, cheese, bread and similar finger foods as well as some hot tea and even a bottle of the Professor's red wine. "I think father would think this an apropos time for this." She pours a few fingers of wine for each guest that wishes for some and then lifts her glass to everyone and then levels her eyes on Ra'Hulhrim, "To good friends and the dearly departed."

"Here, here!" Aurora drinks her toast a bit too quickly, sputtering on the strong drink, and looks about sheepishly. "Um, it's very good - I'm just not used to it! Yes, I'm sure the Professor would approve. We have certainly earned it today."

Later, she waits until Kendra has left the room to finish mending Elian's wounds with applications of negative energy. As she does so she listens to Kristoph and Elian's conversation quietly. "Elian, are- are you sure about telling Father Grimburrow?" she asks, apprehensively. "Even if he is a good man, he's just seen his town attacked by evil spirits and the forces of the undead. After all that, to tell him of your... condition, well... you can see how he might take it badly. Do you really think it wise?"

[DarkOne-Rob]

Kristoph raises his head at Aurora's concern for Elian. "The good father will surely understand, especially given Elian's noble actions. The Church is aware of dhampir and cautious with them, but they are not undead. Grimburrow is surely educated enough to understand the difference.

Besides - I won't let anything happen to Elian...or any of you after all that we have done together. It will be alright."

[Farmerbink]

Elian smiles, this time more fully- though whether the cause is some unseen confidence or the blush of good wine is anyone's guess. "Am I sure it is wise? Absolutely not. Am I sure he has demonstrated sufficient compassion and wisdom to know that whom he assists? Absolutely. I have spent too much of my life forced to hide in the shadows, cower even among what few friends I have known.

I... I do not know how to express my gratitude to you all- I am unfamiliar with the concept of friendship as it applies to myself, but I intend for the experience to grow. I think Father Grimburrow is one to consider worthy of the opportunity..."

[JWallyR]

From his position conspicuously near the cheeses and other, more filling fare, Gundwolf sips at the glass of wine, listening silently. Silently, that is, if one does not consider the lip-smacking and chewing noises from the half-orc's unmannerly grazing.

[marrok]

[Kendra] levels her eyes on Ra'Hulhrim, "To good friends and the dearly departed."

He raises his glass and blushes.

"I have spent too much of my life forced to hide in the shadows, cower even among what few friends I have known.

I... I do not know how to express my gratitude to you all- I am unfamiliar with the concept of friendship as it applies to myself, but I intend for the experience to grow. I think Father Grimburrow is one to consider worthy of the opportunity..."

Sipping his wine and nibbling on the refreshments, Dreamstrider sits in the corner. A few glasses give him courage, he stand and joins the others."I' was forced from my enclave too. An elf who sleeps, they didn't know what to make of me... It was easier for everyone if I just left... Popping a bit of fruit into his mouth, "We are a sort of family now, I think. Isn't that what friends are? Like a family that you choose? It's been a very long time since I've surrounded with such...comfort. Del'dretch and I have been on our own for so long..." realizing he's rambling, he raises his glass "Well, to good friends, to family.

[CleverDragon]

Kendra listens to the ensuing conversation, leaning back in a sturdy wooden chair and sipping the glass thoughtfully. After a time, her focus on the conversation slowly slips away and her gaze is unfocused as she holds the now half-full glass. The loud, wet sounds of Gundwolf's smacking lips and sucking the tips of his fingers draws her from her private reverie. She favors him with a quiet chuckle and slightly raised brow, and then resumes drinking her wine and stares off into the fireplace, a peaceful though pensive look upon her face.

Once again, her reverie is broken, this time by knocking at the front door. She stands, straightens out her skirts, sets her glass of wine on the table and glides across the living room to the foyer to open the door. The cold winds outside blow into the house as the high priest of Pharasma smiles gently, his steel gray eyes atwinkle. "Might I come in, Kendra?" The elderly priest asks while pulling a cloak tighter around himself.

Kendra stands back, allowing him to step past, "Of course, Father! Just you?" She says, peering past the man through the door.

The priest nods and says his thanks, then shivers, gripping the cloak tighter for a moment as he acclimates to the warm interior. Kendra closes and re-latches the door and makes her way back towards the dining area. Father Grimburrow hangs his cloak upon the coat hook and heads for the hearth, extending his hands outward towards it and flexes his fingers. Elian and Gundwolf notice that he winces slightly as he does so. He looks at Kendra and then the others, "It seems that Gozreh has favored us with a long winter and a strong breeze," he says wryly, though with mirth hiding in his eyes beneath the thick gray brows.

Kendra asks the priest, "Can I get you anything, Father? We have..."

He cuts her off with a wave of the hand, "Oh, no thank you, miss. If I eat anything this late, I'll be up all night. But I thank you, just the same," he pauses as he swivels his gaze towards Elian and Kristoph. Never one to mince words, "So, you wanted to talk?" The man's bushy brow raises just a touch.

[Farmerbink]

Elian rises as Grimburrow enters the sitting room. He reaches out a hand to shake, and makes it a point to take note of the man's frailties- only clasping enough to be a presence, without much force. An almost feral grin splits the lithe, attractive man's face at Father Grimburrow's introduction.

"Indeed." Elian nods. He looks around the room once, taking time to note the faces of the men and women who have become so important in such a short time. Knowing he has their support, and knowing that they already know his dirty secret, Elian allows himself to sit- his posture impeccable- at the edge of a chair. He takes a deep breath. "Put simply, father, I am not Human. I... I have only seen my mother a few times- though I would recognize her if I ever had the favor again... It is... extremely unlikely. I never met or knew my father, but have learned enough over the years to know he was not- could not have been human. You see, I have the hunger. Whatever blood flows through my veins, I have been cursed with anatomy of the dead. Things which should heal me, hurt. Things which should hurt me, revitalize me in ways I do not understand..." Elian takes another deep breath, and allows his unfocused gaze to rise to the ceiling. He closes his eyes.

"I believe my father is, or was, a vampire." He looks down, opening his eyes, and allowing his hands to part in a disarming gesture. "I understand the Professor was studying my... unique situation. He was never able to fully explain it to me.... and I felt that you should know."

[DarkOne-Rob]

Kristoph listens to Elian and watches the priest as the other man speaks. At the conclusion of the explanation, Kristoph waits patiently for Father Grimburrow to respond, silently praying for the understanding and respect he believes the Church should show to a remorseful and decidedly anti-undead dhampir, such as his new friend...

Spoiler: Assuming the Father responds to Elian kindly...

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After Father Grimburrow is done speaking, Kristoph asks, "How much has the sheriff told you about Lorne?"

Depending upon the answer, Kristoph recounts everything the party learned that afternoon, describing the transformation, letters, battle, and finally presenting the late-deputy's sword to the priest. After directing his attention to the pommel, the paladin concludes, "We recognize that the blade is enchanted, and possibly with significant power. However, it has been used in the service of the enemies of life - whose name I will not speak here..." he glances to Aurora meaningfully, "- and before we attempt to use it for good, it surely needs some kind of purification or cleansing. What can you tell us about these enemies, this blade, and how we could make it a weapon for the powers of righteousness instead of the profane?"

[MuffinMan]

Aurora's cheeks flush and she looks to the floor at Kristoph's chastening, but otherwise she remains still, listening to Father Grimburrow's words and trying not to attract attention to herself in the stern cleric's presence.

[CleverDragon]

Father Grimburrow listens to Elian’s brief tale and explanation and then turns to face the fire. He still has his hands outspread towards the flame, rubbing his hands slowly and flexing his fingers from time to time. The firelight dances across the elder priest’s heavily wrinkled countenance, casting many deep shadows across it as he ponders the dhampir’s words. His jaw works slowly and his lips are pursed into a thin white line while his bushy brows are furrowed deep as he thinks.

After a few moments of awkward if not tense silence, the priest turns back to face everyone. His eyes are intensely focused on Elian with an intense but inscrutable expression on the father’s face. “I have one question.” He raises the gnarled index finger of one hand as he grips the pendant around his neck with the other and mutters a brief incantation. A ripple of some sort of unseen power fills the room - unseen but very tangible. “Have you succumbed to the hunger before?” He pauses for a moment, then reconsiders. “Let me rephrase that. Have you done so in the last year, willingly?”

Elian realizes that he is strongly compelled to be completely honest with the priest, no matter whether he has a desire to be evasive or not. Everyone else in the room quickly realizes that they too are under a similar compulsion. Meanwhile, the aged priest awaits Elian’s response with a piercing stare.

Spoiler: OOC

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A successful Spellcraft with a DC = 19 reveals that he has cast a Zone of Truth spell. You may choose to resist the spell with a Will save DC = 16.

@DarkOne: I will attend to your question about the sword after this conversation has wrapped up. Kristoph would realize that this is a very important moment for the priest, as there’s definitely a conflict of interest with regards to Grimburrow’s (and your) religion and his personal opinion of Elian.

[Farmerbink]

Elian meets Grimburrow's stare with an uncomfortable but steady acknowledgement. As the priest makes his incantation, Elian nods slowly in recognition. With a deep breath, he makes a conscious, visible effort to allow the magic to take hold of him. "I wish you did not feel the need, but I understand," he murmurs, before carefully measuring his response.

“Have you succumbed to the hunger before?” He pauses for a moment...

Pain immediately floods Elians face, marred further by what can only be ashamed admission. There are no words necessary to betray the truth of his past. After a moment, he intakes breath to either give voice to his admission or frame a defense for himself-

“Let me rephrase that. Have you done so in the last year, willingly?”

Followed almost as quickly by relief. Without hesitation, Elian shakes his head to the negative. "It is perhaps untrue to say I have never succumbed willingly," he admits with a flicker of his previous shame. "It is a.... complicated subject, even for me." He pauses for a moment, striving to recall times long past, to speak the truth clearly despite the priest's compulsion. "You see, it is... beneficial to me. Not unlike the proper poultice or remedy, when I am injured or ill, allowing myself to... feed can provide stark relief, though I like it not." His face flushes with pain as memory comes welling forth, unbidden:

"I first discovered my affliction when living in Caliphas, alone, almost forty years ago. The first winter there was particularly harsh. I... nearly perished to the elements, as I lacked a proper, permanent home... I was set upon by a young brigand one night- I believe for my coat. Unbeknownst to me at the time, I already possessed a hint of my ability for peaceful incapacitation. When my assailant fell unconscious, he struck his head on the cobblestones, and began to bleed. I... I do not like to think on what happened next." Elian swallows, steeling himself to continue. "I am unsure if the man survived. I am likewise unsure I would have, otherwise..."

He shakes his head, half to dispel the memory, half a simple denial of his state. His eyes widen suddenly, in realization. "I must explain one additional... caveat. The hunger is not one for the flesh of man. It applies... equally to all sanguine beings." A vague expression of misunderstanding prompts Elian to explain more clearly. "It is the drinking of blood that calls to me. Its source need not be human. And..." with an expression that is confident enough it could almost be described as a challenge, he continues- "I have allowed myself to feed of that nature, though only of animals. Not unlike a hunter felling deer for its meat or pelt, I have done the same for its blood."

[DarkOne-Rob]

Spoiler: Spellcraft Check

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(1d20+6)[18] vs DC 19

When the priest uses his magic Kristoph's expression grows troubled. He listens and watches silently, unsure how to react to the story or the apparent distrust shown by his church's clergy.

[CleverDragon]

The old priest listens to Elian's tale in silence, his face betraying nothing of his opinions along the way. After the dhampir finishes speaking, his eyes flick over to Kristoph for a moment and then back to Elian. His shoulders relax and his features soften and a deep heavy sigh issues forth. "I apologize for the...unfriendly nature of my questioning. But, I had to know." He says, and then swipes his hand to the side, as though sweeping away a cobweb from the air. Everyone in the room feels the truth-inducing compulsion disappear as he continues speaking.

"Elian, my boy, I do not fault you for your heritage. And I would be willing to bet that neither does Pharasma. But in my much...younger years," Grimburrow lets out a wry chuckle, "there was another that came through Ravengro that shared your lineage. Sadly, he did not share your distaste for...for feeding on people. I regret to say that we learned of it much too late." He looks at Elian with a pained expression, his eyes betraying a deep hurt and extreme fatigue likely from the night's events. "Please forgive an old man his prejudices and suspicions. I had to think of my flock."

He slowly walks towards an available chair and sinks down into it with a wince and a bit of a groaning sigh. "Still, there are many in this village that aren't as familiar with such things and act purely out of ignorant fear, no matter how many times they're told otherwise. You were right to come to me in confidence." He shakes his head with a sigh, "I apologize for damaging yours in me."

He lets out an ironic chuckle. "And to think - I'd intended to use that spell on the council if they continued to be hard-headed buffoons."