Episode 6
-Threshing 13-
-Warm, Cloudy no rain, no significant wind-
-See something brightly colored and conspicuously placed-
Q: A circus? Likely No Q: A tournament? Likely Yes
Ep 6: Truestone: Threshing 13-Alter increase an activity, decrease another
Chaos Factor: 4
As Cedulia, Siars and I prepare to leave North Watch, I spot a colorful flyer tacked to the wall of the stables. “What’s that?” Siars asks as I examine the parchment.
“A tournament in honor of Lord Darren’s Birthday, in Trestone from the 29th thru 35th. This is a challenge open to the general melee and other competitions in what? Three weeks? Who is lord Darren?” I ask.
“The Baron. Baron Darren, so he prefers Lord,” Cedulia explains. “He and his twin brother are two of the first lords to carve out inland fiefs. Both men endure. Hard men and wise ones.”
“How old are they?” I ask.
“Some say a hundred years already,” Cedulia explains. “Freia favors them it seems.”
“Somebody does,” scowls Siars.
We finish packing our gear and then head south, following the road towards Truestone.
-Morning Encounter-Herdsmen-(Friendly)
As we follow the road south, the path is blocked by a large flock of sheep crowding the road. “Make way!” hollers Siars as we approach.
The herdsmen shout a few commands and the dogs help usher the sheep off the road so we can pass, “Good morning travelers. You come from Kiddimir?” asks one man, about twice my age.
“Yes, we are on our way to Truestone,” Cedulia replies. “A fine flock you have.”
“The goddess has blessed me, sister!” the man replies.
“May you honor her in return,” Cedulia smiles, and we wish the man well as we continue our journey.
-GreyBarrow- Q: Has the relief column caught up to us yet? Unlikely No Q: Are we stopped at the gate? Unlikely Yes (Friendly)
We soon come to the village of Greybarrow, so called for the large barrows covered in grey stones that dot the countryside surrounding the village. “Hold there!” a guard calls out as we approach the gates, “What’s in your packs?”
“Oats, tents, bedding. We are on our way to Truestone. Then beyond that to Farhold,” I explain as the guard starts poking around.
“Feywander?” he asks. I shake my head. He nods, “See anything interesting on the roads?”
“A pack of worgs in the highlands. Not much else. Is there a tavern or inn in this village?” I respond.
“Yeah, the Apple Inn My Eye. Decent food. Joulia’s a charmer. Treat her nice,” he suggest.
I nod, “Thank you.” The three of us then enter the village, water the mules and then head inside the Inn for a meal.
-Immersion rustling sounds-
Ep 6: Greybarrow (Th 13)
Chaos Factor: 4
Entering the Apple Inn My Eye, I hear the sound of a deck of cards being shuffled at a side table. The serving girl, a colorfully dressed young woman with a pock marked face gestures for us to sit, “I’ll bring over some pottage and a tankard for each of you,” she winks with a smile. The three of us are soon seated and being served a meal.
“Decent enough place, ” Siars nods as he tries the stew.
“So, after Truestone, you head back north?” Cedulia asks. “Or will you linger for that tournament?”
Q: Will he head back north immediately? Very Likely Yes
“As soon as I can find a caravan going north, I’ll return to Kiddimir. I prefer to get paid as quickly as possible.” Siars replies
-Persuasion 24-
“How long have you been doing work for Mabelle?” I ask the man.
-Pick his former company-
“A month. I had been fighting alongside the Order of Swords, but…killing orcs for four crowns a day, and trying to stretch it when you aren’t fighting, but being paid no more than a regular soldier yet lacking the lodging and free food. One never quiet gets ahead. I figured, maybe there are more profitable ways to put my skills to use?” Siars explains.
I nod appreciatively.
Q: Does Cedulia question his motives? 50/50 No (Move away from thread, find work/coin)
“Thing is, there is only so much work to go around in Kiddimir. Mabelle is isn’t going to be able to use both of so…the sooner you push off, and stop stealing work from me, the better off I am,” Siars glares at me.
-Persuasion 24-
“The way I see it, partnerships can handle greater challenges, turn greater profits, and in a fight, you have to have someone watching your back, but I think we let Mabelle decide who to keep and who to cut loose,” I shrug.
Siars considers my words as he leans back in his chair, “You may be right. Look me up when you get back. Mabelle will know where to find me.”
I nod, “I’ll do that.”
Q: Does anyone approach us? Unlikely No -Afternoon Encounter-None- Q: Does the guard slow us? Unlikely No
After lunch, we get back on the road to Truestone and eventually arrive at a stone bridge that leads to a bustling village surrounded by apple orchards and fields. There is a sturdy looking stone gate and reinforced walls that look relatively old. The guards look us over as we enter, but say nothing until we ask the village name, “Welcome to Halcenth,” the man at the gate replies, studying us as we pass by.
-No village encounter-(party will meet Jessa at Rotten Apple)
We feed and water our mounts, then stop inside the Rotten Apple Inn where a very young, buck toothed woman brings us hot meals, “On the road, huh? Heading to Kiddimir? Oldenfall? Or Truestone?” she asks.
“All three pass through here?” I ask.
“All three roads but not many gentlemen,” she winks. “Lot’s of swords though. Everyone carries a sword if they travel the roads,” she muses.
Q: Does she explain her theory? 50/50 No
“Are the roads here dangerous?” I ask.
“Not at all. Especially with all of the soldiers running back and forth down them all the time,” she shrugs.
“What’s your lord like?” I ask.
“Boring! Foul tempered. Always has us drilling in the square week after week. I mean, why? Long way from the border, why should I have to learn to shoot a bow?” she shakes her head. “My parents don’t even remember the last time anything happened to Halcenth. Or even nearby.”
I nod, “Good to know.”
-Taproom event-Brawl-Q: Card game? Unlikely No Q: Jealousy? Likely Exceptional No Q: Livestock dispute? Likely Exceptional No
“What the hell! I told you and your friends not to come here anymore!” a burly looking farmer shouts at another man who scowls at him.
“I have just as much a right to stop for a drink as anyone else in this village!” retorts the other man.
“Nah! Go back to your mill and drink! The Rotten Apple is for the rest of us!” the first man replies. Then one of his buddies gets behind the second man and shoves him from behind.
-Intimidate 15-
“Stop it!” Cedulia stands up.
Everyone looks at her in surprise, “Oh, um…sorry sister. We didn’t see you there.”
-Raimunt’s Religion roll 10-
She walks over to the man who shoved the other, and places her scourge in his hand. “What is the fourth sin?” she demands of the man.
“Ummm…don’t commit acts of cruelty?” he asks studying the well used scourge in his hand.
-Persuasion 9-
“And you will undergo penance for shoving that man, for the sake of your own immortal soul,” she instructs him.
Q: Does Siars support her? Very Unlikely No
“Ummm…no,” he tries to thrust the scourge back into her hands, but she refuses to take it. “No! I said,” the man repeats.
“Look at who she travels with! Freian clergy are always like that! She wants you to beat yourself because you break her rules. Do you ever see Brother Bordel scourge himself? No! It’s just a way to keep us little people under control, while she travels around with…two swordsmen to scare us into submission,” he sneers at us.
Q: Does Hamlen escalate? 50/50 Exceptional Yes
The first man then snatches the scourge away from the third man’s hands, “Always so full of yourselves! I ought to beat you like a spoiled little brat!” he says, grabbing Cedulia to bend her over his knee.
Q: Does Siars get involved? Unlikely No
I spring to my feet, and punch the man in the jaw! Then all hell breaks loose. Three men come at me, the last releasing Cedulia even though she had failed to break free of his grip. I am quickly overwhelmed and in spite of landing a couple of solid blows, find my strength failing me, when I suddenly feel a sense of overwhelming peace, and renewed vigor as I notice Cedulia offering up a prayer that I prevail. Then the man who was being bullied, initially shocked by what was happening, tackles the man who started the fight, leaving me with just two men to face. I quickly put one down as I feel my strength continue to return, and then, two on one in my favor. We soon stand over three battered bullies, moaning and groaning on the ground. “Thanks for your help,” I nod to the farmer who stood up for us.
“Hey, if the sister hadn’t spoken up, they’d have taken me outside for a beating. Name’s Bren,” he offers his hand.
“Senfry Talbot,” I reply, shaking his hand.
“You three! Get out of here! I don’t want to see ruffians like you here ever again! And that goes double for you Bren! Always stirring up trouble!” the innkeeper, a man with slightly pointed ears, commands.
“Isaiah! This is Hamlen’s fault! I just came in for a drink!” Bren objects.
“And now you can get out!” Isaiah responds.
I am already heading towards the door, Cedulia with me, scourge back in her belt. “You throw a solid punch,” Siars notes as we retrieve our animals.
“Steel isn’t always the answer,” I reply.
“Nor is asking someone to beat themselves,” Siars scowls at Cedulia.
“If he doesn’t offer penance now, how will he be worthy to enter Celestia?” Cedulia protests.
Siars shakes his head, “Not my problem.”
“But it is mine!” Cedulia affirms as we continue our journey.
-Immersion-Smell of Manure-
Ep 6: Truestone Town (Th 13)
Chaos Factor: 4
As evening falls, we appraoch the red stone walls of Truestone town. Siars smiles, “Easy money so far,” as he pats a satchel hanging from his mule.
“What are you delivering, anyway?” I ask.
He shakes his head and declines to say, but whatever it is, the guard in Greybarrow didn’t think it out of the ordinary. Approaching the town gate, Cedulia fishes out the pennies to pay for me to bring the animals inside with us and we join others arriving in town.
Q: Do the guards question us? Unlikely Yes (Reaction Negative)
“What brings you to Truestone?” the watch sergeant scowls as we approach and Cedulia offers our gate fee.
-Cedulia persuasion 3-
“We are on our way to Farhold, from Kiddimir, and we need lodging for the night,” Cedulia replies. “And of course, I have business at the temple. A letter for Mother Helisa”
-Droque’s intimidate 21-
“Show me the letter,” the sergeant commands.
-Persuasion 11-
Cedulia fishes out the letter, but I interject, “That is sealed by the Bishop in Kiddimir. You’d best not open it.”
“And who are you?” the sergeant scowls.
-Intimidate 20-
“The man the bishop is paying to get Sister Cedulia to Farhold and his letter to Truestone,” I reply.
The sergeant passes the letter back to Cedulia, “Carry on then.”
The sergeant and I glare at each other as I pass through the gate, then we head towards the city square. As we pass by the stockyards near the gate, the place reeks of filth and manure, but farther in, the air is full of dust, and a thin red powder seems to coat the cobblestone streets.
-Evening encounter-none- Q: Is lodging available at the Hungry Hearth? Likely No
We head towards the town square with Siars leaving us to pursue whatever business he has in town. I am still a little sore from the fight a couple of hours ago, but thankfully, suffered no serious harm. Not even a busted lip, oddly enough. “That place!” Cedulia gestures towards a large inn with a sign that depicts an empty bowl in front of a blazing fireplace. I head that way, and let her go inside to check on lodging before I stable my mounts.
Q: Is lodging available at the Jester’s Cup? Likely No
Cedulia comes back out, shaking her head, “There’s another place this way,” she says gesturing for me to follow. This place has a jester holding a tankard on the sign. Once again, I wait outside before lodging the animals. Cedulia comes back outside, visibly flustered. “There’s one more inn, up near the palace,” she complains. “I’m going to stay at the temple. It’s up to you if you want to stay the night in a cell or a soft bed,” she pulls out a gold crown and two tenpiece. “That will help with the lodging, but I hear it costs more than this.”
“Will the temple have a place for the animals?” I ask.
“Yes. There is likely a stable,” she nods, so I follow her to the temple.
-Immersion-Sense of Anger-
Ep 6: The Temple (Th 13)-Intrupt: Guards Depart Hope
Chaos Factor: 4
Arriving at the temple, Cedulia and I approach, but an acolyte bars my entry. “The temple is busy. Please return in the morning to offer your prayers.”
“He is with me, and needs lodging for the night,” Cedulia explains.
“Not here. There are inns for that,” the acolyte protests.
Irritated, I nod my head to Cedulia, but just then, several soldiers walk out from the temple. The acolyte looks to them, “How is your friend?”
“It’s in the goddess’ hand now,” one replies as another gestures the sign of falcon.
Realizing why there is no room, I tell Cedulia, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“The morning after tomorrow,” she amends. I nod, then lead my horse and mule back into town.
-Encounter-Holy man- use local character Asha-
Walking towards the wealthier end of town, easy to figure out as the palace is visible from the steps of the temple, I soon come across the scene of a young priestess offering an impromptu sermon to passers by. “Are you the custodian of these animals?” the woman asks me.
I glance back at the horse and mule in confusion, then at her, “Yes?”
“And you see to all of their needs, as the goddess sees to yours, am I right?” she asks.
-Persuasion 19-
“Well, the goddess has never brushed my hair, shod me, or doused me in fleabane,” I shrug, to the amusement of other bystanders.
The priestess grins, “But you see to their needs, as Freia ensures our crops grow and our sows litter, and guides us in love and comfort.”
-Senfry Religion 15-
“Isn’t some of that…the First Father?” I object.
“But she is his daughter, and intercedes to him on our behalf!” the priestess explains.
“I…wouldn’t know,” I admit, “I’m just looking for lodging for the night. Really,” I sigh, and drop a tenpiece in the cup at her feet.
“Take good care of those entrusted to you, friend,” she nods her gratitude, “And the goddess will bless you in kind.”
“I pray that is true,” I nod, then continue down the street.
I find a large in depicting a rotund king on the sign, hand my mounts to the stable hand, and head inside.
Q: Is lodging available at the Portly Prince? Likely No
“Do you have any room available?” I ask the man inside the premier inn.
The man behind the counter shakes his head, “No. We are all full here at the Prince. Have you tried the Hungry Hearth?”
“I’ve been to three inns tonight and all are full,” I scowl.
“Sorry friend. Perhaps a boarding house has an empty room?” the innkeeper suggests.
I sigh, “And…I am wandering an unfamiliar city at night to find one? May I use your cellar to change?” I ask.
“The bathhouse is below,” he suggests.
I go downstairs and change into my court clothing, don my signet ring, then leave, retrieving my animals and leading them up to the gate of the keep.
-Evening No Encounter-neutral
Arriving at the palace gate, a soldier stops me, “My lord?” I bows his head lightly.
I nod to the man, “I am Lord Senfry Talbot, from Norgard. I was wondering if I might trouble Lord Darren’s household for lodging for my animals and I tonight. It seems…the inns are all full.”
“I will send word to the steward,” the sergeant replies, and he command a man go into the keep.
Q: Am I invited inside? Nearly certain Yes
A short time later, the soldier returns, “Follow me, milord,” the soldier says. A stablehand arrives to take my animals from me, and another servant to help carry my saddlebags and backpack inside.
Q: Am I granted an audience? 50/50 No (NPC Action Sister Cedulia Repair Fame) (Reaction Neutral)
At the door of the palace, a pudgy, well dressed man about twice my age awaits. “Lord Senfry Talbot of…”
-Persuasion 7-
“Nowhere and nothing, but my brother, my father and my father’s father have served Baron Conrely in Norgard as our line has been forced to do since losing our own lands. I understand your lord was once in a similar situation?” I explain.
“Landless, penniless and pointless?” the man shakes his head, “And yet, if you are who and what you say you are, I am obliged to offer lodging in your travels.”
Q: Does he host me? Very Likely Yes
I produce letters of introduction from my lord and the high chancellor, which the man studies. Finally, with a sigh, he agrees, “Very well, Lord Senfry, welcome to my father’s home. The court of Lord Darren of Truestone.”
“You are most gracious, milord,” I bow my head.
“Lord Danyel,” he introduces himself. “As my father has already eaten, I will have a servant show you to a room and then bring up some food. I would kindly ask that you not wander about nor…forgive me, touch things of value you might see laying about.”
I smile and nod as I am being insulted and my honor impugned. I really just need a place to sleep. Soon, a servant, a woman twice my age, guides me upstairs
Q: Are they good quarters? 50/50 Exceptional Yes
I am taken to a magnificent guest room far superior to any place I have ever stayed! Stained glass windows, a warm brazier, silver mirror on one wall, a large feather bed with silken sheets from the far south! A wash basin and a servant girl already filling it with warm water! “I am Yvanne,” my guide introduces herself. “This is Delene. After she has prepared your bath, she will take your travel clothes to launder and bring up a meal for you. If you need anything at all, please ring the bell and she will attend you.”
-Persuasion 14-
“Thank you, Yvanne,” I nod to her, “And you as well, Delene.” Both women bow lightly, and Yvanne leaves.
I begin putting my things away from where the stable hands left them in the room, then clean my blade while Delene continues limping in and out of my room filling the wash basin.
Q: Does she attempt conversation? Unlikely Yes
“Forgive me lord,” Delene asks. “I’ve not seen you before. Are you one of my master’s vassals?”
“No, I am from across the sea. Norgard, from a small keep near Frogsend and Westwall,” I explain.
“I do not know those places,” she confesses. “What brings you here?”
“Seeking my fortune. Or, more immediately, all of the inns were full and I needed a place to sleep. And a bath,” I chuckle, nodding towards the full basin.
“And a meal? I will go to the kitchen now and retrieve your garments on my return,” she offers.
“Thank you,” I nod, and she leaves the room, allowing me to undress, setting out clothes for her to clean before I slip into the warm bath.
I hear her collect my things then take them to the laundresses. She returns a few minutes later with a tray of sliced mutton, fruit and bread, along with a carafe of wine, setting it on the table near my bed. “Will there be anything else, milord?” she offers.
“Thank you, Delene. You may retire for the night,” I nod. She smiles and departs.
I finish my bath, enjoy a good meal, and then…collapse into the must luxurious bed that I have ever encountered. Sleep comes quickly.
-14th Threshing-
-Pleasant, light rain in the afternoon, good breeze-
-Immersion, I whisper a question to someone-
Ep 6: Lord Darren’s Hall (Threshing 14th)-altered, remove object
Chaos Factor: 4
I wake as colorful beams of light stream through the narrow windows of my room. I sit up, soon hear a gentle tapping at my door. “Enter”, I say, and Delene limps in carrying my garments, folded and clean.
“There was blood on your tunic, it is still being cleaned,” Delene says, apologetically.
I reach for my purse, and pull out five tenpiece, “For you, the stable hands who brought in my things, and the laundress who had to forgoe her sleep to prepare me for court.”
She shakes her head, “It is our duty, and your host’s kindness.”
“And your lord’s generosity saved me twice this. I remain indebted to him, but…I appreciate your help as well. And if you will not accept your portion, give it to the others,” I insist thrusting it into her hand. As she accepts it, I whisper, “Why does Lord Danyel seem to despise me?”
-Persuasion 14- Q: Does she know? Very Likely (given her traits) Yes
“He envies your youth, and that of all ambitious young lords who seek their fortune in these lands, and sometimes gain titles which he will never have,” Delene whispers sadly.
“Is he a good man?” I ask.
Q: Does she admire the steward? Very Likely Exceptional No
She looks up at me in surprise, “He’s hardly the kind of man any would follow into battle, even if one could find a horse large enough to carry him.” Then she catches herself, casting her eyes down, “Forgive my insolence, milord.”
I nod, “I value your candor too much to betray it.”
She smiles and waits outside as I dress for court. Then I follow her to the Lord’s Hall.
-Immersion-silence- (Lord Darrens’s reaction-Friendly)
Ep 6: Breakfast (Th 14th)
Chaos Factor: 4
I enter Lord Darren’s Hall where his household sits at table, and I am stunned by the eerie silence of the room. Though plates sit, untouched, before the lord and his house, none are eating. None are speaking. Instead, all eyes are upon me!
The ancient lord, grey with years, eyes tired, and sunken, gestures for me to sit at the end of the table, to his left, between one young maiden with a gaunt face, and another, who’s finger is halfway up her nose.
“Lord Senfry Talbot?” the old man half ask, half announces, eyes studying me. “To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?”
I bow before taking my seat, “Forgive my intrusion into your home, but I am most grateful for your hospitality, the welcome your son…”
“Grandson,” the Lord interrupts, to the amusement of the muscular lord sitting to his right, and another couple of bold looking youths further down on his right. Lord Danyel, seated on Darren’s left, blushes.
“The welcome your grandson provided and the diligence of your servants in seeing that I might be presentable here in your court. I am in on my way to Farstone, but there was no lodging available in the town, and while I am in no position to repay your kindness, should my fortunes ever change, I hope to.”
Q: Is Helisa here? 50/50 No Q: Did Darren know the Duke? 50/50 No
“And what is Lord Senfry Talbot, the lord of?” Lord Darren asks.
-Persuasion 20-
“Absolutely nothing milord. I’ve my name, my honor, and my blade. No land, nor even a horse of my own nor spurs to ride. But I have heard rumors, that you, my lord, arrived in these lands in a very similar state?” I offer.
“Not even his spurs? And he’s a lord?” chuckle the three younger men sitting opposite me.
“I can best him,” the youngest suggests. The gaunt young woman to my right shifts uneasily, while the girl to my left has…switched nostrils.
Q: Am I challenged? Likely No
I shrug, “I will not be staying for the tournament. I must escort a priestess to Farhold, and…I’ve no mail to wear in the lists.”
“Nor a horse to ride!” jeers the youngest of the lords, seated farthest from Lord Darren
“Now, that’s not true!” replies the young lord seated closest to their patriarch, “marshal said our guest has a very fine horse!”
-Persuasion 23-
Lord Darren raises an eyebrow, but I explain, “It belongs to a Master Johann in Farhold. It was lost to bandits, and I recovered it, and am returning it to him as I escort the priestess.”
“Your running errands for a caravaneer?” the muscular man beside Lord Darren asks, incredulously while Lord Danyel studies me more intently.
“It’s not my horse,” I shrug, “I would have held it in Kiddimir for his return, but Fate and Fortune put me on the road to his home instead.”
“I like horses,” the gaunt woman to my right whispers.
I glance at her, but the woman to my left leans far forward, to address her, “It’s a good thing to return what isn’t yours! Mother Helisa says that!”
The younger girl beside her says, “And it’s rude to spit over people’s food when you talk!”
I glance down at my plate, and sigh. The men across from me laugh, the youngest saying “Seraphe makes a fool of herself again!”
“Good luck marrying her off,” the one in the middle nudges the one closest to the patriarch. Seraphe, the nose picker, glares at the two, “Shut up!”
“Behave yourselves!” Lord Danyel commands.
The strong man to his grandfather’s right, interrupts, “Let them play! It’s funny! Who needs a fool when my children are here?”
Several look suddenly ashamed of themselves at their father’s words, but then Lord Darren lifts his cup to take a drink, and all begin eating, my interrogation seemingly over.
-Topic previous scene-
The gaunt woman picks at her food while Seraphe suddenly asks, “Why did you arrive in town so late? It must have been after dinner, yes?”
“We walked from Northwatch through…Greybarrow…Halcenth…then here. Then we checked three different inns and the temple for lodging before I had to beg the favor of your…great grandfather’s hospitality?”
“You should have come here first. We have to welcome you! It’s Freia’s law. That’s what Helisa says!” she points out, talking with a mouth full of half chewed food.
“Don’t talk with your mouth full,” mutters the gaunt woman.
“Don’t mumble, Alinor,” Seraphe retorts.
“Who is Helisa?” I ask.
“Our grandmother,” Seraphe replies as though it was common knowledge.
“Bishop of the Temple of Light here,” Alinor explains, more usefully. “She often joins us for meals, but there was…trouble…and the temple needed her last night.”
“What sort of trouble?” I ask.
“Goblins!” shouts the youngest of the three across the room. “Goblins have swarmed over Iron Hold and now the roads along the hill country are unsafe.”
“Not as unsafe as the goblins are,” beams the older of the three brothers with a wink.
The middle one studies me, “If you are heading to Farhold, watch yourself. We’ve increased our patrols, but my brothers and I are taking men south to aid the dwarves. Yet, goblins are sneaky when they put their minds to it.”
I nod, “Thank you.”
“I’m looking forward to killing a great many of the little bastards!” the youngest boasts. “Earn my spurs. You should come along! Prove your worth!” he laughs.
“I am sworn to the church for several days more,” I explain.
“Bah! Glory is greater,” he responds.
Q: Does anyone rebutt? Likely Exceptional Yes Q: Coughing fit? Likely No
“Honor is greater!” thunders Lord Darren, who had been quietly eating, seemingly oblivious to the prattle of his descendants. He fixes his eyes on the younger generation. “There is a sickness in this land! A great evil that lurks beneath the surface, waiting, preparing! Biding it’s time! And it will take more than glory, more than steel to overcome it! And if it prevails, every wasted victory over some inconsequential foe will mean nothing, but the honor of those who held true to the gods and stood their ground will carry their souls to Celestia in the end. Zacharias! Quentin! Niclesse! You should know this! Steel wins the day, but without honor, no man will stand beside you! The goddess will abandon you! And whatever is coming, will sweep us all away!”
Q: Does she try to take me with her? 50/50 No
The man to his right and his sons, all shift uneasily, but Lord Danyel nods in agreement with his grandfather. “I’m done,” Alinor mutters, fear in her eyes as she rises from the table and exits the room.
Seraphe then reaches across my plate to grab Alinor’s and scrape the rest of her food onto hers. Then she grins at me, “Can I see your horse?”
“Master Johann’s horse? Of course,” I agree. She smiles at me, food between her teeth. I avert my eyes and finish my meal.
-Immersion childhood memory-
Ep 6: The Stables (Th 14th)
Chaos Factor: 4
As we approach the stables, Seraphe lets out a long belch, then giggles at me. I shake my head in disbelief, and cannot help but laugh in return, “You remind my of my younger brother!”
“I hope not!” she gasps, “He’s not built like this is he?” She pushes up her breasts, giving them a squeeze. Then she laughs at she shocked look on my face, the laugh turning into pig like snorts near the end. “You should see the look on your face!”
“You are unlike any daughter of a lord I have ever met before,” I confess.
“Which one is yours?” she asks as the stablehands throw open the barn doors and I guide her to my animals.
“This one belongs to Master Johann,” I gesture, opening the stall to let us inside.
Seraphe eases her way in after me, and joins me in helping brush down the animal, then watches as I check its hooves. “You take care of you own animals? Alinor does that too!”
“You don’t?” I ask.
She shakes her head, “What would the stable hands do if we each tended our own animals?” she asks. “Starve?”
I chuckle, “I suppose you wouldn’t need them at all.”
Q: Does she want to go riding? Likely No Q: Is she enamored? 50/50 No
“No, we wouldn’t. And then they’d be standing behind plows or things like that. It’s a good looking horse, I guess,” she shrugs. “Alinor should have come to see it, but…I don’t want her to fall in love with you, because you can’t marry any of us. Sorry! No land.”
“Ummm…what?” I ask in confusion.
“You are a lord with no spurs and no land. You have to marry a lady or your children will be lowborn, so I know you are looking for a bride, right? We have to marry barons if we can, or loyal, landed vassals of our grandfather or his allies. So…none of this for you!” she pushes her tits up again.
“Oh…um…yes. That is all true. Thank you for looking out for your sister and ensuring I don’t get my hopes up about either one of you,” I agree.
“Or Melie either, but she’s only fifteen so, too young still anyway,” she reminds me.
“Thank you for your advice,” I bow my head lightly.
Q: Does she offer a favor? Unlikely Exceptional No
“But if you come back for my great grandfather’s tournament, I won’t give you a favor. I can’t, because you don’t have any land,” she shrugs.
-Insight 16-
“Yes, I understand that,” I agree. She grins, as though enjoying tormenting me, but I think she truly believes she is helping me out by stating very obvious truths that everyone knows. I laugh.
“What?” she laughs.
“You’re cute. I like you. When you do marry, I would like to visit your husband’s court. You make me smile,” I confess.
“Of course! You will always be welcome in my grandfather’s house, or in mine,” she winks and then heads back to the palace, leaving me to groom my mule as well.
-Immersion, see something tiny through a gap-
Ep 6: About Town (Th 14th)
Chaos Factor: 4
After donning my road clothes, which I find cleansed of bloodstains in my room, I head into town to explore Truestone. The relief column was returning as I left the keep, I recognized the wagons and several men.
Walking down the street towards the temple, I spot something shiny in the red cobblestone. I kneel down, and realize it is an earring caught between two stones. I use my dagger to gently fish it out so I can get a better look at it. A little copper fox! I smile as I put it in my purse.
-Encounter-Elf on a quest- (Hunt harpies, for the church)Q: Does Tereoso wear the matching earring? Unlikely No
“What did you find?” a melodic voice asks. Looking up, I see an elven hunter standing over me.
I draw the earring back out, “A little copper fox.”
“You’ve a keen eye. And a sword. Are you a warrior?” he asks.
I stand, “Senfry Talbot, but I am not currently available for hire.”
Q: Does he know where they are? 50/50 Yes Q: Does he have another partner? 50/50 No
“Tereoso. Hunter. Why are you unavailable?” the elf asks.
“I am currently hired to escort a priest of Farhold,” I explain.
The elf looks around, “It seems you have lost your ward then, for I see no priest. But the temple will pay you 100 crowns to run a different errand for them. Merely a day of your time.”
“I’m listening,” I cautiously respond.
“Best if you don’t,” Tereoso grins, “But beeswax in your ears will help with that. There are a tro of harpies who’ve been stealing sheep near Red Stone. I discovered their nest, but do not wish to fight three on one.”
“Three on one is a death sentence. And harpies? How do you hold them in place?” I ask.
“That’s the trick. We kill, destroy the nest, drive them away, and…keep tracking,” he replies.
“How does one track through the air?” I shrug.
“Keen eye. They cannot fly long distances without rest. And if they flee, it solves the problem, doesn’t it?” he smirks.
“Perhaps. The temple is over there. Allow me to check with my employer that she will not need me,” I suggest.
“Very well,” Tereoso agrees and follows me to the temple of Freia.
Q: Is Cedulia available? Likely No
At the temple, I see the hare lipped priestess from last night, “Acolyte? May I speak with Sister Cedulia?”
“Cedulia? Oh! You are her escort? From Kiddimir? I am Sister Asha. I heard what you did in Halcenth. Mother Helisa was most impressed at your courage and discretion,” Sister Asha beams.
“Well, Tereoso here,” I gesture towards the elf, “says that the temple has asked him to remove a nest of harpies near…”
“Red Stone,” he offers.
“Says it is close by, but I want to make sure I am not needed before then,” I ask.
Q: Will Asha release me? Likely Yes
“Yes! Mother Helisa wants the harpies removed for they endanger the herdsmen and our lord is busy mustering against goblins. So…Sister Cedulia’s journey can wait. Go with the temple’s blessing!” she smiles.
“Satisfied?” Tereoso asks with a smirk.
“Yes. Let me return to my lodging, collect my weapons and…mule?” I raise an eyebrow. He shakes his head. “Weapons then.” He nods.
A short time later, we meet in front of the temple and are heading out of town.
-Encounter-Master Haralt–topic equipment-
“Elf!” a voice rings out, but Tereoso sighs and keeps walking. “Elf! A word please!” A wealthy looking man nearly three times my age runs up to us, “Those blades you carry? Elven made? How much do you want for them?”
“They aren’t for sale,” Tereoso sneers.
-Haralt’s Persuasion 15-
“Two hundred crowns for the pair!” the man quickly offers, and I blink in surprise.
Tereoso seems taken aback, “I…who are you? Perhaps we can speak when I return to town?”
“When will that be? I need them within the week,” he asks.
“Tomorrow then?” Tereoso replies.
“I am Master Haralt of the Quarryman’s Guild. I’ll make it worth your while.” he urges.
“Yes, we can discuss tomorrow. They’ve blood to taste tonight,” Tereoso responds to the delight of Master Haralt.
I follow the elf out of out town, “Does that happen often?”
“More often then one would expect. Fortunately, there are craftsmen in Silvernar, so I would not have to travel too far to replace them.”
“You are considering it?” I ask.
“Two hundred crowns is a great deal of coin. Very useful,” he shrugs. I nod in agreement, and we are soon following a trail south through grasslands and then up into the hill country south of the city.
-Afternoon Encounter-Hill Country-Kobold hunting party (5) torturing a small animal-Perception checks 21 and 24- (Teroso stealth 25, mine 12)
Travelling up into the hill country, I am astonished at how qietly Tereoso moves, but keeps a good fifty feet ahead of me, and suddenly, signals for us to stop. I hear it too, the occasional word in draconic, but higher pitched than the lizardfolk of Frogsend. He pauses, and listens quietly, signals the number five, and for me to move up to the left, while he goes to the right, nocking an arrow. My crossbow is already loaded.
We move into position, and sure enough, there are five kobolds torturing a plump squirrel they caught. Tereoso nods to me, and I take a shot, but my bolt soars wide, causing the creatures to stare after it in surprise. Then Tereoso’s arrow catches one through the back of the skull.
Q: Do they flee from the first strike? Likely No
The kobolds look around, and soon, sling stones are flying in my direction! Several stones hit me before I kill a second one with my crossbow, and Tereoso a third. Another shot from Tereoso wounds a fourth…and they turn to run…only one manages to escape our view alive.
“Let me look at you,” Tereoso says, then starts examining the various cuts and bruises. “I hope you are better with that sword than the crossbow.”
“You weren’t hitting with every shot either,” I reply, matter of factly as he starts treating my cuts. After treating the wounds, he mutters a prayer…and as happened in the tavern at Halcenth, I feel all pain disappear and his hands glow blue as he passes them over my wounds.
“Magic?” I ask.
“A gift from the First Father,” he replies. “Let us go…they are not far from here.”
I nod towards the kobolds. He shakes his head, “No ears, so no way to claim a bounty for them.”
I shrug and follow him.
Ep 6: Redstone Hills (Th 14th)
Chaos Factor: 4
As we draw close to the harpies nest, I end up asking myself, “Why am I chasing harpies right now? How am I going to kill a bunch of flying monsters?”
“Quiet!” Tereoso hisses, “Put this in you ears,” he hands me some beeswax covered cotton, which I wedge inside my ears. He does the same with his, and then we move foward. Presumeably, quietly.
-The only thing worse than our stealth rolls were their perception rolls-(Three harpies, fighting)
Soon the harpy’s nest comes into view. The trio of bird women are fighting between themselves, seemingly squawking over…a piece of jewelry? One of them shoves the other out of the tree and is stomping on her sister with sharp claws while the one on the ground fights hopelessly to protect herself. Weapons ready, Tereoso and glance at one another, and…wait.
Q: Does the bullied one yield? Very Likely No
Feathers are getting ripped out and blood sprays as the grounded harpy continues fighting in vain to hold onto her precious prize, but her sister is unrelenting. But as she prepares to finish off the weakling, the one on the ground gives her a mighty cut across the abdomen! It seems to shriek out in rage, then brains the pinned harpy. “Now!” Tereoso and I let fly…a bolt and an arrow slam into the bird prying the necklace from the cold grasp of its rival.
The third bird, that had been watching the fight, takes flight towards us, and suddenly, Tereoso lowers his bow and begins walking towards the bird that perches nearby
Q: Does the badly wounded one flee? Likely No
I fire at the wounded one once more, but enraged, she flies after her sister toward Tereoso and I, droppig on the ground just behind us, slashing at Tereoso to little effect, but the elf staggers towards the singing sister…and suddenly snaps out of his stupor, just as the singer pounces on him, slashing with its claws and beating him the femur of some past victim.
I draw steel, and slash at the foe behind me. My blade goes low as it lifts up into the air, and then claws me brutally as it comes back down with a screech! There, my blade bites flesh, and it falls to the ground, twitching in agony. I glance over to Tereoso fighting the third of the trio, and leap down to join him. But by the time I reach him, the last bird is dead. “You’re a wreck,” I say, looking him over. He says something to me that I cannot hear. And then both laugh, as I pull the wax from my ears and start cleaning my blade.
Weapons stowed, I then examine the elf’s wounds and bind up the worst of them, and he does the same for me…then mutters a healing prayer over himself that seems to have little effect. He sighs, and while the blood is wiped away, the scratches, bruises and bandages clearly tell anyone we have been in a fight. “I’m going to take their heads. Find that necklace and whatever else the filthy wretches might have had worth taking.” Tereoso advises. Then we each get to work.
-My Intelligence check 17-
Beneath the corpse of the one I cut down, I find the copper necklace they were fighting over. Worth next to nothing, but worth killing their sister over! And there are silver beads in this one’s hair that I cut free to untwine from its braids later. I find a copper ring that was likely someone’s wedding band, then a couple of signet rings with gems inlaid. In pouches damaged by the elements, I scrounge up gold, copper and silver coins of varying age, condition and origin. . Showing my findings to my partner, Tereoso says, “We’ll split the coins. And I’m taking this ring here,” he studies the one with two stones on it, “you can have the rest.”
“You’ve a good eye for quality,” I chuckle. He nods in agreement, as he tucks the valuable piece into his pouch. We split the 60 gold crowns we find, though many are dwarven make. Then each take about two pounds of silver, burying the rest up here for someone else to find. I won’t have time to return for it. Then we head back to town.
-Evening-No Encounter- Q: Does the guard question us? Very Likely Yes
Arriving at the town gates,”What happened to you two?” the guard asks.
-Intimidate 16-
“Temple business. Harpies,” Tereoso replies, holding up the three severed heads he has strung together on a cord. “Returning to get paid.”
The guard recoils and waves us inside. I smirk, and follow him to the temple.
-Encounter children-
“Are you an elf?” several children clamor on seeing Tereoso.
“No! He’s a half elf! He’s all dirty. Elves don’t get dirty!” anothe rebutts. Tereoso just shakes his head as we continue past the children and soon arrive at the temple. I follow him inside.
Q: Is he seen immediately? Likely Exceptional No
“Don’t bring that filth in here!” an acolyte cries out on in dismay on seeing us.
“The Mother charged us with killing…” Tereoso begins, but the acolyte cuts him off.
“Wait outside, please! No blood inside the temple unless for sacrifice, or you are being carried into the infirmary,” the acolyte explains. “I shall let her know you have returned safely.”
Tereoso and I glance at each other, then sit down on the temple steps. It was a market day, and vendors are packing up their goods now as we watch.
Q: Does Mother Helisa come to see us? LIkely Yes
An elderly priestess soon arrives, followed by Sisters Asha and Cedulia, who smiles on seeing me, as well as the acolyte who stopped us from entering. “By Freia’s grace you have returned to us having vanquished the servants of her brother’s corruption,” she intones with a gentle smile. “You have done well, Teseoro and…?”
“Lord Senfry Talbot,” Cedulia offers.
(positive regard from Cedulia’s earlier “fame” prompt)
Helisa smiles, “You are one escorting our child to Farhold? Preventing unwarranted cruelty, defending one of our sisters, and now disposing a great threat to the community. I also understand you are a guest in my father’s house. You…had best clean yourself up before presenting yourself for dinner.”
“Lord?” Tereoso raises an eyebrow.
-Terioso’s insight 7- Q: Does she offer healing? Unlikely Exceptional Yes
“Of nothing,” I shrug. He looks at me in confusion, but I let it remain. Helisa signs a piece of parchent, and seals it with her ring, handing it to Terioso. He nods, and kneels before her as she raises her hands as though to bless him. Her hands glow blue as she prays, and his injuries vanish!
Then she reaches towards me, and I fall to my knees as well. Cedulia smiles, eyes bright with delight. “So might Freia succor her faithful servants.” The mother explains after we are restored. “Now…go change clothes before my father wonders at the rudeness of his guest!”
“Thank you, Blessed mother,” I bow my head. Stepping part way down the steps, I glance back at Tesoreo.
Q: Does he have the coin on him? 50/50
“Right! I owe you. He joins me halfway down the steps, and counts out thirty-five gold coins from his pouch, and another 20 from his pack. Then from deper in his pack a pair of gold earrings and a gold necklace, each with pale blue stones. “How about this? Or we can meet tomorrow and I can give you coin.”
“This is fair enough,” I agree, and then we bid each other safe travels and I return to Lord Darren’s keep.
Q: Same guard as last night? Very Likely Yes
A short time later, I stand before Lord Darren’s keep, and the sergeant from last night studies my appearance, “What happened to you?”
“Errand for the church,” I reply and he lets me enter.
-Sense of Hyperawareness-
Ep 6: Darren’s Hall Evening (Th 14th)-move away from Ranulf wine, abandon extrior
Chaos Factor: 4
Once inside the hall, I quickly head up to the guest room fully aware that servants are watching my every movement in a mixture of curiosity and trepidation. I change clothes, and leave the torn and bloodied garments folded on my bed, ringing the bell for Delene to collect and deal with them while I head down to the great hall.
Inside the hall, I see Lord Darren, Lord Danyel, the three girls, and the man who sits on Lord Darren’s right talking to a man in Kiddimir colors. It is Ranulf!
I quietly slip into the empty seat between Seraphe and Alinor. A plate and cup are quickly set before me. Lord Danyel’s narrow gaze follows me as his father asks, “What ill tidings have you for us?”
Q: Did they find the culprit? Likely No Q:Evidence of a wider conspiracy? Likely Yes (random event, current context Suffering Proceed
Ranulf glances at me, curious about my presence, then turns back towards the Baron, “The Captain wished to relay his gratitude for the quick relief your people sent to us in our time of need, and to inform you that the sabotage of our supplies, and the burning of our stables appear to be part of a larger conspiracy. Some documents of unknown origin were discovered, stained with red dust, indicating they might have been written here, but we do not recognize the hand. He steps forward and hands the documents to Lord Danyel who gestures for them. “The men in the barracks where these documents were found have been taken back to Kiddimir for…interrogation. But I was sent to advise of the situation as we do not have birds at the moment.”
Lord Darren glances to his right hand son, “How would you handle this?”
“Handle what?” the man asks, a bewildered look in his eyes. Danyel pinches his brow and clenches his eyes shut.
“Evidence that someone in our hold is perhaps in league with the traitor who compromised Fort Norgard?” Darren asks.
“Oh, ummm…start searching the homes of everyone who works in the quarry. Quarry workers get dust on everything,” he nods.
“Most quarry workers don’t write, brother!” Lord Danyel groans.
“Well…not if they think it will make us suspect them! But we will find out who did it once we start questioning everyone!” he beams.
“Danyel, look into this situation for me,” Darren suggests.
“Of course, my lord,” his grandson replies. “Sit at our table! Refresh yourself! You have done well,” he tells Ranulf, gesturing towards where the young men had been seated this morning. They have undoubtedly deparated to hunt goblins alongside their men.
Q: Is my tardiness questioned? Likely No -Topic last scene-
None ask about my tardiness, and given the situation, I don’t feel it appropriate to make an issue about apologizing over it. Instead, Seraphe asks if I enjoyed seeing the town. “Truly, I didn’t have much of a chance to see it. I met an elf who asked my help hunting harpies, so I ventured with him into the wilds near Red Hollow.”
“Did you find them?” she asks.
“Yes. One of the three killed its sister, then we finished the other two ourselves, the elf Tesoreo and I. It was a mission for the church, and Mother Helisa paid my companion quite well for it,” I explain.
Seraphe grins, “But not you? You did it for free?”
“You’ll never advance if you don’t claim what you are owed,” Alinor whispers. “It the church hires a man, the man should be paid.”
“The church hired Tesoreo, and Tesoreo hired me. My purse is full once more,” I shrug.
Seraphe then reaches under the table and cups my purse in her hand, jostling it, “It is very full!” she giggles.
“Cut that out!” Melie nudges her sister.
“Prude,” Seraphe teases her younger sister who glares at her. Then releasing my pouch, “You can’t buy a title, you know!”
Q: Does Alinor like this answer? Likely No
“With or without a title, gold allows one to live well, and with a title, coin allows one to hire craftsmen to build and soldiers to guard. It sows the seeds of future growth and success,” I reply.
Sariphe shrugs, “I suppose. I just think it is better to share than to hoard.”
I nod my understanding, “Charity is a virtue, but too much and one has nothing for the hard times of tomorrow. Too little and one forgets gratitude, and earns none. I hope to use what I earned to good effect. But only time will tell.”
We continue our meal, and then I retire to my room. My soiled clothing has been removed for mending and cleaning. So I lay down for bed, and soon drift off to sleep.
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