–Episode 5–
-Threshing 9th-
-warm, clear skies, calm-
-Immersion-Two people laughing-
Ep 5: Scene 23: Resupply (Threshing 9th)-object removed (tent?)
Chaos Factor: 4
After breakfast, I travel the market and purchase a new blanket, and bedroll. Then I pick up a new whetstone. I load all of this onto the pack saddle atop my poor, unfortunate riding mount! And then twenty pound of oats as an emergency supply for the beast. Unfortunately, I cannot find a tent at the first few places I visit.
Leading a fine riding animal around as though it were a pack mule provokes a bit of laughter, but at the moment, it can’t be helped. I lead it over to one of the many corrals, hoping that there are some mules available and that they weren’t all sent west to war or south with the relief column.
Q: Does the first livestock dealer have any mules? 50/50 No (encounter, mistaken identity, negative)
I visit the livestock dealer from which I bought that first mule, but he doesn’t have any right now. Leaving, I am confronted by a sallow faced man a few years older than myself, “Arsene!” he calls me, “You owe my master money for that blade he forged, but is still sitting in the back of the shop!”
-Rainbald’s insight 3-
“What blade is that? What shop?” I ask.
“The Cold Steel! The jeweled short blade you ordered with the raven filigree,” he relates with an angry scowl.
-Persuasion 12-
“Jeweled? Why? I mean, my name is Senfry Talbot, and I am a fighting man, not a lord knighting people, and if I were, I’d use a blade like this one,” I pat my longsword, “And if I could afford a jeweled blade, I wouldn’t be using a borrowed horse as a pack mule.”
“Ummm…,” Rainbald stammers, “I…may have made a mistake.”
“Where is your shop?” I ask, “Off the main market?”
“Yes…yes, of course,” he replies, excusing himself and quickly walking away. I shake my head and continue towards the next corral.
Q: Does this one have any mules? 50/50 Yes (Bone jarring gait and rubs fences, robust and chews fences)
I watch the animals for a bit, and realize one of them chewing the railing of the corral, and the other keeps rubbing up against things. I am really looking for a better animal than these two, so I head to the next corral.
-Encounter-local character-Mabelle!-Q: Is Mabelle alone? Unlikely No Q: A client? 50/50 No (Generate person…children) Q: Hers? Likely No Q: Is a bodyguard with her? Very Unlikely No
“Come along little ones,” I hear Mabelle’s familiar voice, and see her ushering a trio of young girls down the street with her.
“I want to see the horses!” one of the girls, maybe five years old, urges, staring towards the corral.
“Hold on a moment, we’ll see the horses soon enough!” Mabelle replies, hoisting the youngest, a one year old I’d guess, up high on her waist she follows the five year old. “Be patient, darling!”
“Seems you have your hands full,” I tease on seeing her.
Q: Is she amused? Likely No
She spins around, eyes narrow, “You try wrangling three children through city streets, then laugh.”
I hold up my hands, protesting my innocence,”Your children, I take it?”
She shakes her head, “My sister’s! I promised to show them the horses and now I have to show them the horses!”
“Funny how that works,” I shake my head, falling in pace with them. The one in her arms reaches out to pet the animal I lead, so I pause to allow it. “I’m looking for a mule this morning.”
“That’s why you haven’t left yet?” Mabelle raises an eyebrow.
“That and a tent,” I shrug.
“You won’t need a tent. There are villages every day along the route,” Mabelle retorts.
“That’s what I thought heading south. Most of the inns were full,” I reply.
“Every village has a shrine, and a rectory for the village priest. Cedulia will always find lodging,” she smirks.
“Oh. Well, good to know. I’d still feel better with a tent,” I reply.
Q: Does the next corral have mules? 50/50 No Q:The fourth? 50/50 No Q: The fifth? 50/50 Exceptional yes (3d4=8 mules) Q: Does the sixth? 50/50 Exceptional No
(exceptional leaper, refuses to gallop)(rears unexpectedly, headstrong) (fearless, bucks unexpectedly)(bucks unexpectedly, refuses to gallop) (rears unexpectedly, robust) (bone jarring gait, rubs fences)(exceptional leaper, stops unexpectedly)(bucks unexpectedly, gentle)
I spend the rest of the morning with Mabelle and her nieces, watching horses in the corrals, and eventually settle on a mule. It has an uneven gait, but I don’t plan on riding the thing. I transfer the pack saddle to it, buy some more oats, and afterwards, I purchase a tent as well.
-Townsman, drugged and kidnapped aristocrat- (Insight 22) Q: Tough men? 50/50 Exceptional Yes
Leading my two animals through town, I notice a well dressed man staggering down the street, supported by two others of similar estate, but markedly more sober, and while I realize his man is in trouble. I also realize the men escorting him wear long blades with well worn hilts and carry themselves as warriors. Whatever trouble he is in, it is to get out of!
I mutter a quick prayer for the man’s safety, and head to the temple to collect Cedulia. There is still plenty of time to reach Shoalwatch by nightfall. Or perhaps Stenchbog and a good meal if she is willing to push.
(Add thread: Two very dangerous looking men kidnapped Lord Croque Mensange, a courtier in Kiddimir)
-Immersion-see something decorated through a gap-
Ep 5: Scene 24: Hitting the Road (Th 9th)
Chaos Factor: 4
I arrive at the temple, and let the attending novice know that I am here for Cedulia. While As the novice steps inside the temple to fetch her, I notice the ornate tapestries just inside the door depicting the creation tale. I smile, and step back down from the door, returning to where my animals are tethered at the edge of the busy market square below the temple.
Q: Is Cedulia excited to depart? Likely No
Cedulia comes down the steps to join me, a dour look on her face. “Alright. Let’s go,” she says.
-Persuasion 5-
“Is something wrong?” I ask.
“How far will we get today?” Cedulia responds, ignoring my question.
“Shoalwatch with ease. I’d like to reach Stenchbog if we can, but we are getting a late start,” I shrug.
“I was ready at dawn,” she replies, hoisting her pack over her shoulders.
I nod, “But we have a mule…for that.” I gesture towards her pack.
“I just want to get going,” she replies, and starts towards the city gate. I follow.
-Encounter-Town watch spots me and wants to question me…later, add to Kiddimir threads-Perception 6, I don’t realize they are studying me-
We leave the city and head south. The air is warm and there is no breeze at all. I have the mule tethered behind the horse so I can lead them as a single train. Spear in my right hand, lead in my left. Cedulia walks along beside me, a quarterstaff in hand that she is using as a walking stick.
“Ever been to Farhold before?” I ask.
Q: Has she ever been to Farhold? Unlikely Yes (d4-1=3 times, 3d8 for when)
“Yes, once shortly after I joined the church, and twice a couple of years ago, running errands between the great temple and the church in Farhold,” she explains. “It’s a rough region. Rough men.”
“Where are you from then?” I ask.
Q: Is she from Kiddimir fief? Likely Yes (50% Kiddimir proper, otherwise-roll village) Q: Does she have family there? 50/50 Exceptional Yes Q: Good terms? Likely Exceptional Yes Q: Parents alive? Unlikely Yes
“Stenchbog, actually,” she replies. “It will be good to see them before I leave.”
I nod and quicken my pace, “I reckon so.” She matches my stride.
-Encounter-Herders with animals-(Playing a game, rolled a 1 to hit!)
Passing through the countryside I we spot a small flock of sheep off the roadways a bit. The shepherds are casually watching over them while flinging stones at a nearby tree. “Bet you can’t nock the nest off that bough!” one challenges.
The other lets a stone fly and it bounces off the limb below and straight back at him! “Ow!” he yelps in pain to his fellow’s collective amusement.
Q: Is Cedulia amused? 50/50 No
I can’t help but chuckle at the scene. Cedulia scowls, and I start to wonder how pleasant this journey might be. The friendly young woman from two nights before has seeming vanished.
Q: Are we stopped at Goodroad? Very Unlikely No Q: Does she want to stop for lunch? Unlikely Exceptional No
Reaching Goodroad, Cedulia asks, “We don’t need to stop do we? I’ve got bread we can eat as we go. Can the animals handle it?”
“Well pause to water them, but yes, we can continue,” I agree. We stop by the village well and I let the horse and mule drink from the trough.
-encounter-No village encounter–Evening Encounter-Ruins-
We continue onward and I pull the bits from the animal’s mouths so they can nip at vegetation as we follow the trail. Along the way, I notice a stone structure some distance west of the road that I hadn’t seen in my earlier travels. “What’s that?” I ask.
-Cedulia history 7-
Cedulia pauses to stare, “Just the old arch. I think the road might have gone that way centuries ago. Or maybe it’s all that’s left of some old building. Let’s keep going. It’s going to be dark before we get to Stenchbog,” she worries.
-Con Saves, all pass- Q: Are we stopped at Shoalwatch? Unlikely Exceptional No -No Encounter-
We pass through Shoalwatch, pausing only to feed and water the animals from the trough and my oat bags, eating some of my travel provisions as well, then we push on, arriving at Stenchbog a couple of hours later.
Q: Will she go to one of her sisters? Likely No
“I don’t want to wake anyone,” Cedulia says, as we reach the village. “The inn”. I nod and we head towards the Retching Raven.
Q: Is it crowded? Unlikely No (d4=4 rooms available)
I put my animals in the stables, and get the hand to help me bring things inside while Cedulia rents us each a room. She hands me a key, and we each take our gear up to our respective rooms. “I’m famished,” she admits, and we return to the taproom to eat.
-Tapproom event-customer complaint- Q: Is Berthe her sister? Unlikely Exceptional No-
“I gave you a tenpiece! You owe me two pennies back!” the sharp featured, well dressed young man argues.
The expressionless red haired tavern wench shakes her head, “No. A tenpiece for the stew, the bread, the peaches and the four tankards. There’s a lot of meat in that stew. If you wanted broth, you should have said so and it would save you some coin.”
“Four tankards? I’ve only drunk one?” the man complains, slurring his words.
“Four times over. You keep asking me to fill it again. Perhaps I should have ignored you then, as I will ignore you now. Go to bed, Emery. You’re drunk!,” she replies flatly.
“Berthe,” Cedulia calls out as we sit. The redhead comes to our table. “My companion and I need…whatever you are serving tonight.”
Q: Does she recognize me this time? 50/50 Yes
“Cedulia,” Berthe nods curtly. Then, looking at me, “You’ve been here before.”
I smile warmly, “yes. The food here is excellent.”
“I know. I prepare it,” she replies flatly. Then looking to Cedulia, then in her monotone, “I’ll bring out a couple of bowls. It is good to see you.”
“Likewise,” Cedulia responds, and a short time later, we have bowls of delicious pork stew, warm bread with butter, and sliced peaches.
-Persuasion 20- Q: Politics? Likely No Q: Homesick? Likely Yes
“So, what’s troubling you?” I ask Cedulia.
“I don’t really want to move two weeks away from home. It’s one thing to be in Kiddimir. I can leave the temple in the morning, and visit my sisters that night. Spend a day here, then return to the temple the following day. Or they can come and see me. It’s nice. Two weeks to Farhold. If one doesn’t get robbed by bandits or eaten by gnolls. I don’t know when, or if, I will see anyone here again,” she furrows her brow. Then she sighs, “but if Freia wills it, it shall be done.”
“Well, does Freia will it? Or did the church just need to send someone and picked you when it could be anyone?” I ask.
Q: Does the question annoy her? 50/50 No Q: Does she believe it? 50/50 Yes
“Freia chose me. And she has her reasons, even if I do not understand them yet,” Cedulia replies with a gentle smile.
I nod, “Then if she wills it, you will see your family again.”
Cedulia smiles, “That is true.”
-Topic-Treasure-
“So…you are a lord with no land, and you are from Norgard, but have travelled here. You are…seeking your fortune, I take it?” Cedulia asks.
“That’s why that old ruin sparked my interest. I hear these lands are rife with old forgotten places laden with lost gold. Gold that could restore my family’s wealth, if not its rank and honor,” I admit.
“What is greater? The wealth, the rank or the honor?” Cedulia asks.
“We have honor. And if we forsake it, we have nothing, and if we surrender it to gain the others, we are worth nothing, but I’d rather see our rank restored than grow wealthy. Gold is a means to an end, reclaiming our family’s status as lords and vassals of a greater lord is most important,” I opine.
“What if you were sworn to the church? The church has knights, equal in status to the errants and landed men,” Cedulia suggests.
“That title is not passed from father to son, and…it is for more pious men than I,” I grin.
“You gave up half of what you could have been paid to help a leper who told me she doesn’t even really know you. Only met you a few days ago asking for bread, and you brought her bread, twice! And a token of our goddess. Then you came fetch her for healing. What is more pious than that?” Cedulia asks me.
-Persuasion 21-
I shift uncomfortably in my seat, “Perhaps I should go wenching at the Posh Pillow.”
Q: Does she know it’s a joke? Very Likely Exceptional Yes
Cedulia burst into laughter, “You are not that kind of man! Too honorable!”
“It is good to finally see you smile,” I offer.
She shakes her head, still amused and takes another sip of her ale, “It is good to laugh. Sometimes, I fear I forget how.”
“Father Turulf seemed a jovial man,” I offer.
Cedulia shakes his head, “His faith is such that…nothing troubles him. He doesn’t worry over everyone he sees. Believes it will always work out. I’m…just not there yet.”
I shrug, “You cannot stop the rain from falling, nor cause a drought to cease.”
“Through prayer, the most faithful can!” Cedulia protests.
Q: Does she continue her protest? Likely No
I sigh, “I’ve heard the tales as well.”
We finish our meals discussing the quality of the stew, the flavor of the peaches and other things of little consequence, before we excuse ourselves to our rooms to sleep.
-Perception 23-
As I lay down to rest, I hear through the walls, the quiet, rhythmic thwack of whip from the room beside mine where Cedulia is lodged. “Oh, that’s it,” I yawn, as I drift to sleep.
-Threshing 10th-
-Sweltering, rains all night, rough winds-
-Immersion-sound of sawing-
Q: Apology? Very Unlikely No
Ep 5: Scene 25: Stenchbog (Threshing 10th)-Interrupt: Siars-Communicate/Individual (generate his mission since he is here, special delivery to Truestone)
Chaos Factor: 4
Having eaten breakfast, Cedulia and I stop outside the Retching Raven. There is a youth at the smithy trying to saw piece of wood into the general shape of a weapon handle. I shake my head as the lad really should just go visit a carpenter who’s more skilled and has a wider range of tools. But it’s none of my business.
“I want to see if they have a better mule than the one I’ve got at the corral. I guess you are going to see your family?” I ask.
“Of course she’s going to see her family,” a voice from behind responds. I glance over my shoulder and it is Siars, the red haired warrior that was supposed to be her escort.
“What are you doing here?” I ask.
Q: Will he say? Likely Exceptional No
“Why? So you can steal another contract from me?” Siars sneers.
“Do you know this man?” Cedulia asks me.
“Yes, this is Siars. The man who Mabelle wanted to escort you. Siars, this is Sister Cedulia,” I introduce them.
Q: Does he apologize to her? Very Likely Yes (Siars Persuasion 5)
“A pleasure to meet you,” Siars replies with a nod, “I am sorry that I missed you the other day. I was unexpectedly detained. I’m sure you understand.”
Q: Does she invite me to tag along? 50/50 No
“Safe travels then,” Cedulia replies, indifferent to his attempted apology. “Yes, I am going to visit my parents and sisters. I will meet you here after lunch, I suppose?”
“Of course. Take all the time you need. If we leave after lunch, we should still arrive at Gateway before sunset,” I nod to her.
“Good luck finding a better mule,” she grins, and then heads into the village.
I glance at Siars, “So…from Gateway, want to head south together if you are going that way?”
Q: Will Siars agree? Likely Exceptional Yes
He chuckles with a smirk on his face, “That would be the wisest course, so yes.”
“Alright then. I’m going to see if they have a decent mule,” I head over to the corral while Siars swears at the heat and heads back inside the shade of the inn.
-Encounter-village guard- negative reaction-(Generate guard-Galdin)
“I don’t know you, stranger,” a village guard approaches me as I am walking towards the corrals.
“I don’t know you either, Senfry Talbot,” I extend my hand.
“What’s your business in Stenchbog?” he asks, regarding me warily.
“Passing through. This is the road towards Gateway, yes?” I raise an eyebrow.
“Travellers usually arrive midday. Nobody stops here overnight,” the guard regards me with suspicion.
-Persuasion 19-
I glance back at the inn, “That must be hard on the Retching Raven if nobody rents their rooms.”
The guard follows my gaze, stammers a bit, and then walks away. I shake my head.
Q: Does he have any mules? Likely No
I head to the livestock dealer, and…unsurprisingly, there are mules for sale. I sigh, and take a walk around the village to see what else they have. It seems to be a fairly prosperous village in spite of the lovely aroma from the nearby swamp. On seeing the herbalist’s shop, I decide that I could use some fleabane for the mule and horse.
-Generate Herbalist-Ailmer-Friendly-
Inside the herbalist shop and out of the heat once more, I am assailed by the aroma of a wide variety of drying plants. “Good morning, friend,” the pale, white haired herbalist greets me.
“Good morning, master. I am in need of some fleabane for a horse and a mule. Let me see what else…” I muse as he begins bagging enough of the powder for two mounts. I also get some seasonings in case I need to actually cook something, plus some sweet breath, bug bane, and wound wash, just in case. A couple of crowns poorer but better equipped, I then continue walking the village.
Q: Do I encounter the family reunion? Likely Yes (Cedulia Perception 17) Q: Does she call me over? Very Unlikely No
As I walk, I spot Cedulia giving small pouches she is pulling from her satchel to each of her excited nieces and nephews, their “Thank you Auntie Cee” brings a smile to my face, but I turn back another way so as not to intrude.
Q: Is Siars relaxing here too? Likely No Q: Is it busy? Unlikely Exceptional No
After checking on my animals, I return to the tavern and relax for the rest of the morning. “I need to buy a journal,” I mutter to myself as I enjoy a tankard of ale.
“You are a friend of Cedulia’s?” Berthe asks flatly.
“Travelling companion,” I explain. “Bodyguard for the road.”
She nods, “The roads can be dangerous. Especially along the swamp during dry seasons.”
“Lizardfolk, I hear,” I reply.
“Yes. Do you know them?” she asks.
“Not these ones, but I’ve dealt with others,” I reply.
“My love, please don’t worry this man over the dangers of the swamp! He is our guest,” interjects the innkeeper warmly as he joins me at my table.
Berthe glances down at her husband, replying flatly, “Shutting out the cares of the world doesn’t make them go away. But I won’t worry our guest.”
“It isn’t a bother, really,” I chuckle as Berthe walks away.
“Forgive my wife, she isn’t the warmest soul, but her heart is pure. My name is Rasiphe,” he explains.
“Senfry Talbot. Before you ask, I am heading south,” I offer.
“With Cedulia, I saw last night. She’s a good one, that girl. Pious, sincere…and a lot more compassionate than she might let on. Gets it from her mother,” Rasiphe suggests.
I nod, “Tis often our parents who make us who we are, unless Fate and Fortune intervene.”
-Topic Relics Q: Does he know a rumored site? 50/50 Yes
“True that is!” Rasiphe replies. “So, you often hire yourself out as a bodyguard to travelling priests?”
“No, but I am trying to build a name for myself, and pick up a bit of coin along the way,” I shrug.
“A bit of coin? A lot of people seeking wealth and fortune plunge the depts of old ruins. Those who return often come back the richer. Why just two years ago the Blade Singers went exploring the swamp and somewhere, not even ten miles south of here, they discovered some old keep that overlooks the ocean and came back with stories of skeletal guardians, and a fair amount of ancient gold and silver coins. They had some other things as well, but I didn’t get a good look at their packs. They seemed quite pleased.” Rasiphe shrugs.
I nod, “And the blade singers are?”
“Travelling performers and…problem solvers for the high chancellor. Not sure if he sent them there, or if they just got an itch to go exploring. Adventurous lot they are,” he shakes his head. “Not a healthy occupation, mind you, but they pulled it off.
We sit and relax, trading tales a bit longer. I tell him about growing up in Norgard and he talks about people coming and going along the trade road. Eventually it is time for lunch, and afterwards, I head outside, saddle up the animals, and am joined by Siars and Cedulia.
“Is he coming with us?” Cedulia asks, glancing at Siars.
“Of course. We are all three heading south. Safety in numbers,” I explain. “Did you enjoy your visit?”
Q: Does she feel better? Likely No
“I’m going to miss them,” Cedulia replies.
-Persuasion 13-
I nod, “It is good when we miss those we love while apart. It means they hold a place in our hearts.”
“Let’s go!” Siars interrupts, and the three of us head out through the village gate.
-Immersion-see something broken but strangely lit-
Ep 5: Scene 26: Highway (Th 10)-Event PC Negative, Suppress Physical
Chaos Factor: 4
Siars and I both remove our armor, given the heat, loading it on to our respective mules. His animal at least seems well behaved. Mine keeps rubbing up against either his or the horse, crowding the other animals along the trail. “Control your animal,” Siars scowls.
I tug the reins off to one side and fall back a bit. Then, glancing towards the swamp, I spot an old fallen tree that seems to have some sort of strange glow behind it. “What’s that?”
“Swamp gas, most likely,” Cedulia replies.
“Or a will o wisp, trying to lure us into the deep,” Siars suggests. “You should go check it out.”
I bite my tongue in annoyance.
Q: Does Cedulia chastise him? Likely Exceptional Yes (Cedulia intimidate 5)
“If you are going to travel with us, behave in a respectful manner. Senfry has been nothing but a gentleman, yet you had the ill manners not to even show up to meet with me when I was looking for an escort. Now you suggest my bodyguard wander into a swamp to chase ghostly spirits? You should look to the state of your soul, lest your envy draw you into the Dark Brother’s domain,” Cedulia snaps.
Q: Does he retort? Very Likely Yes
Siar’s laughs, and glances at me, “Maybe it is best you escort this one. Sounds a boor!”
-Persuasion 20-
“She’s better than either one of us,” I reply. Cedulia throws me a smile, and Siars falls silent, lowering his head slightly as we continue down the road.
-Encounter-Farmers working-(Neutral reaction)
Passing by one of the many small farmsteads along the road, I can see the laborers threshing their grain. They pause in their work as they pass by, but none approach, nor do we approach them, but each carry on with our own business. “Rough day for that kind of work,” I note.
“It’s not so bad if you can relax in a cool stream afterwards,” Cedulia suggests.
“Well, that’s not a bad idea,” Siars responds as we continue our journey.
Q: Are we stopped at the gate? Very Unlikely No
Soon we arrive at the more heavily fortified village of Gateway, and the guard quietly opens the gate for us, allowing us inside. We then head towards the Keyhole in to board our animals and check about lodging.
-Encounter-villager-Generate Esten-
“Sister!” a voice calls out as we cross the village square. A tall farmer about my age approaches, “Sister! May I have a blessing?”
“Is not Sister Rohese your shepherd?” Cedulia asks.
“Well, of course she is, but…could I not be doubly blessed?” the tall man responds.
Cedulia smiles and gestures for him to kneel before her. Then she lays a hand upon his forehead, asks his name, which is Esten, then prays over him for the state of his soul. Siars and I wait nearby until she is done, then continue towards the inn after she bids the man farewell.
Q: Is the inn crowded? Unlikely No Q: Does Arlette greet me as I enter? Very Likely No (Cedulia Perception 7, fails to notice the serpent pendant)
Returning to the inn, I spot Arlette behind the counter, and her sister, Molle, serving tables. “Arlette,” I greet the innkeeper with Cedulia following behind, “We need three rooms, and we left three animals in the stables.”
Glancing briefly at Cedulia, then to me, Arlette replies, “Of course. One and a half crowns.” Cedulia passes her one crown and Siars places five tenpiece on the counter for himself. Arlette sweeps the coins into her coinbox and hands us keys to our rooms. “A cool bath after we bring our baggage in?”
“Of course. I’ll let one of the lads know to draw it for you out back,” she replies and retreats to the kitchen.
-Cedulia Insight 6, My insight 15-
“You know her?” Cedulia asks. “She didn’t seem to know you.”
“She’s jealous I’m travelling with you,” I wink. Cedulia rolls her eyes as I leave her to get us a table while Siars and I collect our packs from the mules and bring them inside.
-Tapproom event-rival gang leaders?- Q: Do they have goods? 50/50 Yes (Yesshuan 13, vs Tedwin 18 on negotiations)
As soon as we get settled, Molle brings us tankards of ale and bowls of stew. I let mine cool as I am warm enough already. That’s when I notice a lizardman sitting at a nearby table opposite a weathered looking man who I take to be a hunter. They are speaking in tradefist, negotiating wine for furs. The man having several small casks on the table and the scalie having a pile of animal hides of various types. The human seems to be driving a hard bargain, and I’m guessing he’s getting the better deal.
Q: Does he like lizardfolk? Unlikely Yes
“Strange folk, those lizardmen,” Siars notes, following my gaze. “But if you treat them fair. They do the same.”
-Senfry religion check 21-
“Their souls are broken,” Cedulia opines. “They don’t know how to love.” I nod in agreement.
Siars shrugs, “I suspect you could say that about a great many people too.”
-Topic-recent scene-
“So when you wander around town, do people often approach you for a blessing?” Siars asks Cedulia.
“I wouldn’t say often, but sometimes. It isn’t unusual,” Cedulia explains. “Sometimes, people just want to know their mother listens.”
“Normally, one offers a donation to the church for a prayer,” I point out.
Cedulia shrugs, “Not always. I find it tactless to ask such a thing for such a simple prayer. Estin just wanted a reminder. He could pay a penny for her thoughts, but it isn’t necessary.”
Q: Has Cedulia retired? Unlikely No Q: Has Siars? Unlikely No -Persuasion 23- Q: Does anyone approach us? 50/50 No
After dinner, I head out back and refresh myself in one of the water tubs. Then, seeing Cedulia and Siars are still talking, I rejoin them, and we talk about the road ahead, becoming more relaxed in each other’s presence, but as rain begins to beat down on the inn as the storm clouds that have been gathering throughout the day finally burst open, we retire to our rooms. I let the sound of the storm lull me to sleep.
Q: Are there other travelers heading south right now? Unlikely No Q: Have escorts been reestablished? Very Unlikely No
-Threshing 11th-
-hot, clear skies, light wind-
-immersion-sidekick asks npc question-(d6, Siars will ask Cedulia about…knowledge)
Ep 5: Scene 27: Gateway (Threshing 11th)
Chaos Factor: 4
The three of us eat breakfast, and I don’t have any opportunity to privately speak with Arlette about her coldness towards me last night. Perhaps, she doesn’t even remember me? That would be odd. As we start to pack, Siars asks Cedulia, “How familiar are you with the road to Farhold? You know, the first leg requires crossing the Gnoll Highlands. Do you know what gnolls do to people they catch?”
-Cedulia intimidate 3-
Q: Does Cedulia want to travel today? Likely Yes Q: Does she answer his question respectfully? Likely No
“If you are afraid of gnolls, you shouldn’t have agreed to travel to Truestone, and you would have made a sorry escort for me,” Cedulia responds curtly.
-Siars insight 5-
Siars laughs at her, “I think you’re terrified, but too proud to admit it! Let’s go.”
With the animals brushed down, and grateful that I had time to apply that fleabane while I was waiting around in Stenchbog yesterday, we head south into the wilds. Passing through the village gates and into the wilds.
-Morning Encounter-Worg out hunting- (our perceptions beat its stealth)
As we travel through the thick grasslands, following the ancient road. The horse and mules continue their usual antics but I notice something following it. Taking a quick glance back, I spot an unusually large wolf that ducks behind some scrub. “We’re being hunted…worgs, I think,” I warn my companions.
“How many?” Siars asks, turning to look. Cedulia seems uneasy, and begins muttering a prayer.
“Only saw the one,” I reply.
Q: Is there a second one? Likely Exceptional Yes (add a mate and a pup)
“Alright then, best we kill it before it calls others of its kind,” Siars replies. “You bait it, then we bring it down.”
I nod, glance back at my mule, “Sorry bud,” and unlash it from the horse, handing the horse’s reins to Cedulia. “If something goes wrong, mount up and ride to the fort.”
“What are you doing?” she asks. I then pull stop tugging the mule’s reins, and as he is already unbitted, we casually continue walking as he grazes along the road behind us.
Q: Does the mule keep up? Unlikely Yes Q: Does the Worg realize we are trying to draw it in? 50/50 Exceptional Yes Q: Does it decide to attack anyway? Unlikely No
The mule continues to keep pace with us, to my annoyance, and I catch another glimpse of the worg, and its mate and pup come out onto the trail behind us, staring at us. I nudge Siars and he and I turn to face them. Cedulia pauses as well. “They’re huge!”
As Siars and I sling our shields down onto our arms, our apparent lack of fear seems to unnerve the hunters, and they leave the trail. “That’s…unnerving,” I mutter.
“Agreed. I’d rather they attack,” Siars replies.
I transfer my spear to my shield hand and grab the mule’s reins, lash it back to the horse, and continue on our way, “Cedulia, if you would be so kind as to lead the animals.”
“Yeah, good idea,” she replies. Siars looks around warily, as we continue on our way.
-Afternoon-Rustling in grass nearby-
We continue throughout the day, pausing briefly to eat, and water the animals at one of many streams, but staying very close together. Throughout the day, we’ll hear occasional rustling in the grass nearby, but get no sight of anything…nor are we willing to investigate too closely. “I think they’re still shadowing us,” I offer. Siars nods agreement.
“Will the fort let us stay within the walls?” Cedulia asks.
“They should. Red Flux isn’t contagious. We’ll eat our own food. We have provisions for our animals. We just need walls for the night,” I explain, then we continue on our way.
-See a strangely lit shadow- Q: Is the banner still up? Unlikely No
Ep 5: Scene 28: Fort Norgard-Altered remove object, add character
Chaos Factor: 4
We arrive at Fort Norgard and see that the plague banner has been taken down. There are a few more men on the wall than last time I was here, and we approach, confident that we will be allowed inside.
Entering the open gate, the sergeant on duty asks, “Brave or foolish? Either way, come in side. I don’t like having the gate open for long.”
“Thank you. How is everyone? I saw the plague flag when the caravan I was with came through a few days ago and left some food,” I ask.
Q: Were there deaths? Unlikely No Q: Did Kiddimir relief arrive first? 50/50 No Q: Does he realize I must have gone to Kiddimir? Unlikely No
“Relief came in time. That caravan gave us enough to survive and not slaughter all of the horses. Then the aid came from Truestone…and Kiddimir as well. Not sure how they got word. Pigeon probably,” he muses.
“Why didn’t the Fort send word?” I ask
Q: Sabotage? Nearly Certain Yes Q: Did they catch the culprit? Unlikely No Q: Are wounded being sent away? Unlikely No Q: Are relief columns leaving tomorrow? Likely Yes
“All the birds were dead the night people started coming down sick,” the sergeant replies. “Still not sure who did it. Watch your back inside these walls. Someone here is a traitor, so none can leave. But you three. You can stay the night, continue on your way with whichever relief column is heading your way. Stay out of trouble. I hope you brought your own food. There isn’t much to spare right now,” he adds.
“We have enough. Where should we stay?” Cedulia interjects.
Q: Is there lodging for us? Unlikely Exceptional No
The sergeant points towards a couple of bunkhouses beside which are parked a number of large wagons, “The relief columns have the bunkhouses. You can throw up some tents over there. Stable your mounts. Plenty of room in the stables right now, unfortunately.”
She nods, and we head over towards the bunkhouses, then pitch our tents between them. Siars and I each have one. “I’m going to the chapel to pray,” Cedulia says, leaving the two of us behind.
-Persuasion 5-
“So…” I begin, as I strip down the animal’s gear and begin brushing them down, checking their hooves and such, “You and I in one tent, Cedulia in the other?”
Siars laughs, “She’s your charge. If she’ll share a tent with you, good for you! If not, you can work out who is sleeping under the stars in the mud we’ve been walking through all day.”
I shake my head, “Ever a gentleman.”
He laughs, “I take it, you are under the stars?”
“Probably, probably,” I agree.
Q: Does anyone approach us? Likely Exceptional Yes (1-8 Garrison, relief Truestone, Relief Kiddimir) Q: Does Siars have any? 50/50 No
As we get settle in, a soldier from the garrison approaches, casting hopeful glances at our supplies “Hey there! Saw you arriving while I was up on the parapet. Wouldn’t happen to have any wine on those mules of yours would you?”
“Sorry,” Siars responds.
I shake my head as well, “Didn’t think to bring any.”
“Aw! That’s a shame. The relief columns didn’t bring any either, and…well…I drank my stash while we were all getting sick, had to share what I had smuggled in, just to keep my squadmates going. I’ve been promised a lash for my crime, after everyone’s all recovered and all, but…you know. Gotta have a drink when we can, right?” he grins.
(add thread)
I shake my head, “Next time I come through. I’ll try to remember to have a bottle for you.”
“Appreciate it. Name’s Ranulf,” he introduces himself.
“Senfry Talbot. That’s Siars,” I introduce my companion and I.
“So, what’s taking you south?” he asks. “Not merchants I take it.”
“Escorting a priest to her new posting. Heading to Farhold,” I offer. Siars remains silent, nodding in agreement.
-Topic Contacts- (Roll a local character in Farhold) Q: Does he want to send a letter? Unlikely No
“Long road, Farhold. I’ve got a friend, Corbett. He used to be sergeant here at the fort. When he mustered out, was given a land grant…a claim to set up his own little free farm out there. You run into him, tell him we miss him here,” Ranulf grins.
“I’ll let Sister Cedulia know. She’ll undoubtedly meet him at some point,” I offer.
Q: Does he tell us of a nearby ruin? Likely No
Ranulf chats with us a bit longer about things he’s seen here in the highlands, the boredom of garrison life. About his whoring sergeant who chafes at being stationed so far from any women and the difficulties of getting anything good to drink beyond the weak daily ration. He is a funny man, quick with a joke.
When Sister Cedulia joins us, he repeats his request that she send is regards to Corbett, and she agrees to do so. After that, he leaves and we eat from our travel provisions.
Q: Does she offer to share the tent? Unlikely No
“Sister, you should use the tent. I can sleep outside,” I offer.
“Thank you Senfry. I appreciate. I was…mistaken about not needing a tent. When we reach Truestone, I will buy one as well should this situation come up again,” she offers. I nod my head in agreement.
-Perception 15-
A bit later, she retires to her tent, as Siars does to his. Laying on my bedroll between them, I hear the rhythmic thwap of Cedulia’s scourge, and realize that…she’s reciting the names of scores of individuals between each blow. “Mercy on Croques Bashams. Compassion for Wueve Luett. Guidance for Senfry Talbot…” etc, and I am taken aback at this and mutter a prayer for myself as well, and for her safe travels and peace of mind. After her mortifications come to an end, her tent grows silent. I drift off to sleep sometime later, howls of wolves, worgs….or perhaps gnolls in the distance making the animals restless, but my eyes are weary. So I sleep.
-12th Threshing-
-Immersion-sound of digging-
-Warm, clear skies, good wind-
Ep 5: Scene 29: Heading south
Chaos Factor: 4
I wake to the familiar bugle call, and sitting up, I spot a dog digging a hole near the edge of one of the bunkhouses. I yawn, get dressed, and start getting animals ready for travel.
Siars and Cedulia soon join me in getting packed up, and we share jerkey, bread and hard cheese as that is all we have packed.
The bunkhouses are cooking breakfast inside and soldiers are heading to the mess hall as well. And I wonder, looking at them, who turned against his fellows?
Q: Does anyone approach us? Unlikely No random event, current context (Ruin Exterior)
“Fire!” someone shouts. Looking around, I see smoke rising from the far end of the fort. Several men are heading in that direction. “To the gate,” I tell my companions.
Siars nods, “Yes, let’s get out of here. I don’t want to be accused of sabotage.”
Q: Does Cedulia want to help? 50/50 Yes (random event, character action, Sister Cedulia Move, Pain) (Intimidate with advantage 5,3)
Sister Cedulia’s scourge catches Sians and I each across the shoulder, “Go help put out the fire!” she commands. I head over to join the bucket brigade while Siars protests that she shouldn’t have struck him. A few moments later, she is at my side as well. “What a useless man!” she complains about Siars.
Q: Is the fire quickly brought under control? Likely No (My perception 14, don’t see anyone acting suspicious) Q: Do the caravans depart now? Unlikely No
The fire soon gets out of hand even as increasing numbers of soldiers are brought over to fight it. “This isn’t accidental,” I note. Cedulia nods her head in agreement. Glancing at the gate, I see the relief columns, though ready to depart, are being held and the men among them questioned. Their wagons inspected. Siars is waiting with them, clearly unwilling to wait with us, or help with the fire.
(Str 19, and Str 8) Q: Is the fire stopped? Likely Yes Q: Were the horses rescued? Likely No
I continue working through the morning, helping the company fight the fire. Cedulia wears out quickly, and in the heat, ends up leaning against the wall of a stone building, shaded from the sun.
The fire was started in the stables, the door to which was blocked by a wagon, causing the death of many animals inside. The stench of burnt horseflesh hangs thick in the air. Adjacent barns were set alight, and one of the barracks had some roof damage, but there is less to burn on stone structures. The garrison commander has every man formed up and accounted for, with the relief columns, Siars, Cedulia and myself formed up nearby.
Q: Is anyone missing? Very Unlikely No (Generate the commander)
“Last night! I dreamt there was a serpent among us. Swallowing birds eggs, and dripping its venom into our meals. I dreamt it basked in the hellish fires of the abyss…and today, there is fire,” the plump but angry looking garrison commander bellows. “I look you all. Soldiers, servants. Knights sworn not to the High Chancellor, but to our King himself! And one of you….one of you…is a serpent in disguise. What whispers do you hear in your dreams? Do you betray your brothers for money? Or from some dark corruption in your very soul? When I find you, you will wish to hang. You will beg for it! And you will…hang…from your innards wrapped around your neck and hanging from the walls of this keep! Sergeants! Find the man who did this!” he commands.
At this point, men start being taken into the keep one at a time for questioning, while the rest of the garrison is held in place on the parade ground beneath the rising sun, under the watchful eyes of their sergeants. Even the knights of the order! The relief force from Kiddimir is stationed on the walls to keep watch.
Q: Is Cedulia brought inside to help question people? Likely No Q: Are we questioned? Very Unlikely No Q: Is the Truestone Caravan allowed to depart? Unlikely Yes Q: Are we allowed to leave with them? Likely Exceptional Yes
While the interrogations are underway, the Kiddimir relief open the gates for the group from Truestone to depart. The sergeant then calls to us, “You had best go as well!” and we do.
-Morning Encounter-Rustling in the grass- Q: Do the caravaners talk to us? 50/50 No
We fall in behind the wagons heading south. The soldiers in the column are quiet. They whisper among themselves, unnerved by what they just witnessed. The lord leading the column, an errant knight no doubt, and the sergeant at his side, glance back towards us, but then carry on, unconcerned. As we travel, there is often a rustling in the grass, and I wonder if it is the worgs, or more likely, hare we don’t spot as they scatter on our approach.
-Afternoon Encounter-Bleating of deer-
Midday, as we pause for a meal, I hear in the distance some deer cry out in fear at something, but cannot spot the animals. Down in a ravine or something. “I hate this place. You think you can see for miles, but there are enough little gullies and ravines, you don’t know for sure,” Siars laments. I nod in agreement.
-Evening encounter-A snake in my boots!-Siars-
Marching throughout the day, Siars reaches into his saddlebag to pull out some jerky to chew on, then cries out, “Snake!” and swats the side of the bag with his spear repeatedly, spooking the mule, which only remains in place because he’s holding on the reins with his off hand.
“Are you…done killing that bag?” I ask after a minute.
Siar’s looks at me, “There’s a snake inside.”
Cedulia shakes her head, “Probably not anymore.”
I open the top of his bag and…pull out the bloodied and broken remains of a harmless kingsnake…with a bulge halfway down where a mouse had been. I toss it off the trail, and inspect the contents of the bag, “No snakes. No mice, and…may as well dump your food as well.”
“Agh!” Siars groans and empties everything out of that sack. Then, Cedulia and I quietly laughing at his misfortune while he grumbles, the three of us catch up to the wagons, which had not stopped.
-Immersion-Sense of Deja Vu- (Generate some details about the village, some inhabitants, etc)
Ep 5: Scene 30: North Watch-(Th 12)-Alter remove an object
Chaos Factor: 4
As the sun sets, we arrive at the village of North Watch, which is a mirror image of Gateway in terms of half constructed stone fortifications. Only the color of the men’s uniforms are different…and the color of the stone work.
The gate guard is waving his countrymen inside as we approach. He asks about the keep, but with their sergeant pausing by the gate until everyone enters, they tell him nothing.
Q; Does he question us? 50/50 No Q: Is lodging available? Likely Yes -No village encounter-
We pass by as well, saying nothing, and he closes the gate behind us. We then follow the wagons into the village square. The knight at the head of the column then heads over to the lord’s manor off the square while the sergeant directs his men to secure the oxen at the inn’s stables. Cedulia enters the inn to secure lodging while Siars and I brush down and secure our own animals.
Q: Is a minstrel here? Likely Yes Q: Local? Likely Yes
Entering the inn, I am impressed by the skill of the young man playing the lute in the corner. The walls of this place are painted white! And tapestries hang down between the numerous windows. The hearth is well decorated with what I assume is the local lord’s sigil over the mantle. Cedulia is already seated at a table waiting for us. “Wine,” she holds up a cup. There are plates of sliced ham, with bread, grapes and apples along with the usual greens. She hands me a key to a room and I go upstairs to secure my things while Siars sees to his own lodging.
The room has a locking trunk at the foot of the bed that matches the door lock. There is a feathered pillow and a well stuffed mattress, good warm blankets, and a nice oil lamp in the room. Even a wash basin with a pitcher of water! I smile, satisfied at the accomodations, and return to Cedulia downstairs.
“Did you see the rooms? Amazing!” she beams. “Expensive too.”
“Different than the temple, yes?” I ask.
“Like a lord’s palace!” she exclaims. I chuckle. Then she sighs, “I suppose you would know a lord’s palace better than I would.”
“This is the best lodging I’ve had since I arrived, but no, it is not like Baron Chanely’s guest rooms. Still, I look forward to that bed!” I explain.
“There is bath in the cellar,” Cedulia explains.
“Then that’s where I go after dinner!” I smile tucking into my meal.
Q: Does anyone approach us? 50/50 No (Taproom event-creaking floorboards) (Topic, the character)
Siars soon joins us, “Nice bed!” he grins. Cedulia and I smile at each other knowingly. “So, Senfry? What brings you west? You are from the mainland, yes?”
Q: Does Cedulia volunteer the truth? Unlikely No (Siars Insight 18)
“Seeking my fortune, same as anyone who crosses the sea,” I shrug.
Siars studies me, “No…there’s more to it than that. You speak very well, and that’s a quality blade on your hip. I suspect your fortune is…more than mere coin?”
-Persuasion 8-
“My family lost its lands to Zar Vekhul, and have been landless ever since. I aim to restore meaning to our noble title. Earn my spurs, and hopefully obtain a land grant, vassalage or something…that’s what I mean by seeking my fortune. What about you? Why do you live by steel?” I ask.
Q: Does he answer my question? Unlikely No
Siars snorts, “Be lucky if you don’t die with an orc’s arrow in your neck.”
Q: Does Cedulia insist on a response? Likely Yes (Cedulia persuasion 8)
“He asked you a fair question and you respond with an insult. Why do you live by steel?” Cedulia presses.
“I don’t owe either one of you an explanation,” Siars retorts. Then he looks at me, “But I’m good at killing. So I live by steel.”
I sigh and roll my eyes, then return to my meal, and listening to the music. As soon as he is done, Siars heads downstairs to the baths, so I wait here.
The minstrel sings, “There once was a maiden, down in Rustfir
Was such a beauty, red was her hair
Whenever she wandered out about town,
All of the young men would follow her round.”
“None was so bold to court her hand
For her pa was a fighting man.
Never a warrior, more knave than knight
A miserly drunk who liked to fight”
“He hollers and bellows no matter the season,
Drink in each hand with never a reason
The girl cries in shame and oft in despair
Tears out the braids that hold back her hair”
“And then one day there comes from afar,
A weary old soldier returning from war
Uniform torn, flesh ruined and battered
Greeted by him, no woman was flattered”
“Only one maiden would smile his way,
Her charming glance truly brightened his day
He told her his name and asked for her hand
Then father ran out wielding a brand.”
“With a powerful shove and a kick of his leg,
He knocked the old drunkard into a keg,
Then took the miserly drunkard’s true treasure
By making the daughter his wife and his leisure.”
“Where is Rustfir?” I ask Cedulia. She shrugs her shoulders, and we continue listening to the bard’s songs.
After time, Cedulia heads downstairs to the baths as well, and I follow. She to the women’s side and me to the mens. Siars is long gone and I enjoy washing away the grime from the road.
I sleep very well that night.
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