Running... Why are you running, fool?! Stand and fight...
Darkness... Don't look back! There! A light ahead...
Fear... I am not going to make it! They are gaining too quickly...
STAND AND FIGHT!
Wilam wakes in a cold sweat and spasms briefly before sitting straight up in bed. Taking deep breaths he re-orients himself. The dream fades quickly as he tries to recall the details. He can't make sense of it. This is the second night in a row. There must something about Winterhaven that is bring them upon me. Perhaps it would be best if I leave this town to it's doom and find the knowledge I seek elsewhere. Why are you here in the first place, old man? You stayed here because of the good deed that little paladin showed you and your pride won't let you move on until you repay him. You should have bolted for the city gates the moment he invited you to the meeting with that meddling priest. You know it's true... If I did what was best for me, I wouldn't stay here for another sunset. Wilam stops himself and shakes his head. No... that won't do. Wilam, you are a fine man and a fine man does not leave a town to be consumed by the fires of darkness. You must help the priest and paladin and you must not do it solely for their sake. Now get up and get going before the sun really does set while you're still in bed.
Wilam rolls out of the lumpy bed, dresses and freshens up before heading down to a table. He's already forgotten the nightmare and had a rather heated debate with himself... This may turn out to be a good day after all.
As Wilam enters the main room of the Inn, he spots a group of adventurers, all geared up, sitting at a table, almost finishing a bottle of whiskey. You can make out what they are saying, seeing as how the Inn is only half as populated as it usually is.
They seem to be talking about a dead dragon that they just left behind.
Asking for directions from passersby "Where be da healers and da priests?"
Many folks just point further down the main road thru town.
Varro drags the stretcher thru town towards the temple, making a special note as to where the tavern was located.
Once arriving at the temple Varro sets the stretcher down and gathers his belongings and asks the priests there to send word back to Fallcrest about his fate.
"I be leavin him in ya care, I recken he be better off here den where he was. I not be knowin if he be havin any family but I'll be leaving dat ta ya to be findin out."
Varro fidgets about for a few moments as the local priests and clergy tend to the body
Varro then digs into his pouch and places 6 silver coins with Bronn's belongings
"I reckon dis be an offerin ta ya temple fer tending ta him"
With purpose Varro picks up his axe and exits the temple and makes a beeline for the local house of spirits, that he passed on his way in.
The temple is a large stone structure dedicated to the many different Deities worshipped by the villagers, but one thing is certain, Avandra is the patron Goddess of this Temple.
The clergy accept the responsibility of Bronn and wish the party safe travels.
They take Bronn's body into a back room for preparation for his journey to the Afterlife.
With a few simple directions, the party is directed to Wrafton's Inn, the local Tavern, Inn, and Public gathering place for Winterhaven.
As you push the door open, you see a handful of villagers enjoying a late lunch, or frequenting the bar as a habit they are working on breaking.
The bartender looks up as you walk in and greets you with a hearty wave and a "Hello!"
"Bah ... shove da hello and get ta gettin me your best mead."
Varro slides into a nearby booth with a stern look on his face.
Disgruntled at the rude response, the bartender brings a mead to the table, then holds out his hand.
"3 Silver peices for the mead. What's eattin' at you today?"
Even trying to seem bothered, the bartender obviously has a gentle soul.
"fer da love ov mead! ... if ya be havin ta know, Me dragon died taday and ya prices are goin ta make it dat much worst but 'er" Varro hands the bartender 6 silver "see if ya can be findin me a mug bigger den a thimble dis time."
The bartender takes the silver, puts it into his pocket and returns to the bar. He brings back two more mugs of mead and a plate of food including chicken and potatoes.
"Here this should help a bit. Don't want upset visitors goin' hungry now." The bartender smiles and goes back to work.
"Hello, some whiskey please, five should be fine, and a plate of food. Oh, and an ale, preferablly brewed with bitters, and a plate of whatever tonight's meal is. I'll be at that table there." Ehud says to the bartender and sits at Varro's table. "Oi Varro, I see you've gotten a head start. Have ta play catch up."
Varro's mood does seem to brighten with the Bartenders kind words and his even kinder offering of mug and meal. (the latter being what found its way to Varro's interest)
The first mug goes dry after the first swig of mead. He places it near the edge of the table so that it is easier for a passing by wench to retrieve it. Hmmm dis chicken 'n taters be not bad. hmmm ... yea ... not bad at all. Maybe I be owein dat barkeep a hello! ... Na, Sandstone... I be sure he done forgets about it no how.
"Whut? Huh? Who?...ya did what to her?... Sorry lad whut did ya say?"
Varro just realizing there was someone else at his table and also just realizing they said something.
Brann has seen death before many times but it never becomes easy to bear.
When your time is up, the Gods will take your soul and theres nothing any of us can do about it.
Although he didn't know Bronn very well, he does his part to prepare for Bronn's final journey. Brann heads over to the temple and starts to softly chant and pray to Moradin.
Belimir just folows the group. The death of the dragonborn didn`t disturb him much. He was disturbed by the fact that they were entering another city. He`d be happier if this was an open village, or a small town. I guess I`ll have to get used to the tall walls. He walks with the others to the inn, sits at the table and orders some dark ale.
Ehud grins at Varro, "Gots us some shots comin."
...and may his ancestors take him and rest him.
After praying for the dragonborn's soul, Brann eases up off his knees. He looks around at the various tapestries and murals that are displayed liberally around the temple. Despite being a devout follower of Moradin, Brann has always been curious about other deities and sees if he can learn more about the followers of Avandra.
Varro, Ehud, and Belimir sit around the booth inside Wrafton's Inn, eatting, drinking, and enjoying their spirits. The bartender, finally understanding what the dwarf meant by his "dragon died today" decides to bring the group a whole bottle of whiskey on the house.
Brann, inside the temple praying, shows a devotion that many of the fellow clergy share with him. They seem to innately understand what he is praying for and join him in silent prayer, as to not interrupt.
Rising after his prayers to Moradin, Brann begins studying the flavor of the temple. Tapestries depciting the ideals of several different deities can be seen around the temple.
This being a temple of Avandra, Brann recalls what he knows about her clergy.
*The goddess of change, Avandra delights in freedom, trade, travel, adventure, and the frontier. Her temples are few in civilized lands, but her wayside shrines appear throughout the world. Halflings, merchants, and all types of adventurers are drawn to her worship, and many people raise a glass in her honor, viewing her as the god of luck.
Brann can't recall all of the Goddess' commandments, but he can remember one. 'Strike back against those who would rob you of your freedom and urge others to fight for their own liberty.'*
Brann ponders over the commandments of Avandra and reminds himself that he should always respect others' beliefs.
This idea about striking back fits in well with repaying those responsible for Bronn's death.
I wonder if there's a reason for this temple dedicated to Avandra here. Are these folks in the thrall of others or having their liberty stifled? Perhaps I should find out more about this town.
Brann wanders over to one of the nearby clerics.
"Greetings follower of Avandra. I've travelled from Fallcrest and had only recently arrived there. Perhaps you could share some of the history of your village. I have noticed some of the villagers have been looking tired. Is there anything a fellow healer might be able to do?"
One of the priests of Avandra turns to Brann and says:
"The people of Winterhaven have been extremely nervous as of late. I am not sure what is causing this disruption, but it is quite unnerving. I have also heard tell of a woman's husband gone missing. This could just be idle rumors though. Husbands do wander off every once in a while."
The priest smiles at Brann.
"Perhaps I could be of some assistance to this woman if her husband has indeed gone missing."
Brann takes directions from the priest for finding Tabitha Layne.
I'll see how my companions are fairing and then speak to Tabitha if I can find her. Perhaps she has some idea about what is unnerving the village.
As the group talks about their lost friend, an old man wearing fine robes and a long beard comes down the stairs into the main dining room of the Inn. He seems to notice your conversation about Bronn.
Varro seems more interested in drinking then talking, although he does make a comment here and there "Dos critters will pay fer killin me dragon" "Stop hoggin da bottle ... give it ere." "which wench be going ta help me ta me room?"
"ya be knowin dat we are goin ta be missin a finger-waggler ta take on dos critters in der lair in da mornin. Ya recken we could scare us up anudder? Wit me dragon dead now, and all." Varro looks around the room for any prospective wagglers. Noticing the old man in the fine robes, Varro goes into hunting mood *sniff, sniff.* "I tink I be smellin me someting"
After seeing Varro sniffing, Belimir shakes his head, takes a long sip from his tankard and thinks. Not again.
Taking a seat at an empty table, Wilam waits patiently for the wait-staff to take his order. He can't help but notice four adventurers sitting at a nearby table. Wilam found himself becoming interested in their conversation... hoping for a clue that might explain their current goal. If I play my cards right, this may be just the type of escort we'll require for an excursion into the keep.
Despite his interest in the conversation, Wilam attempts to hide the fact that he's eavesdropping.
Varro leaps from his seat to stand on the table, masterfully avoiding any glasses, bottles or dishes. from this perch he continues his hunting ritual. *sniff* *cough* *sniff* "Whate'r it be it be comin from old dirt and dust. Maybe dis be a lich" *sniff* "ya ... maybe a lich."
Varro continues to try to get a better view of the "Lich"
*Sniff, sniff* Varro leaps off the table and lands with mug in hand without so much as spilling a drop.
*sniff,sniff* Varro then darts into the crowd. Varro goes up to each patron in turn *sniff, sniff*
Ehud laughs drunkenly, his head seemingly rolling around his shoulders. He starts singing a bawdy song about a loose Sembian maid. He makes up for his lack of singing ability with sheer loudness.
Wilam is starting to get the sense that he is about to be the target of some sort of rabble rousing. His muscles tense and he waits, motionless. His mind, however, is racing.
Francis awakens to loud noise coming from the Inn's main room. He slowly, methodically, gets dressed. You are a representative of Oghma, he thinks. You shall meet treacherous, violent, uncharitable individuals who live in this world ignorant of real good and ill. You can neither be harmed by then, nor can you be angry with them.
He walks down to the main room to find some breakfast and see if Wilam has come down.
Varro eventually makes his way to Wilam's table
*sniff, sniff* Like a bird dog Varro points and asks "Lich?"
"You'll find no Lich here, I'm afraid." Wilam does his best to appear unamused by the dwarf's antics.
"δυσωδία," Wilam say, then adds. "If it's a lich you're looking for, you need to look no further than your own nose." A wry smile slides across the old Wizard's lips and he turns away from the dwarf to the ale that had just been placed on his table.
The foul odor of death begins to fill the room.
Varro having no real sense of smell of his own, notices nothing from the misguided spell, instead Varro slides in beside the old man blocking him in the booth. "so, now ya be saying yous not be a lich? ... Hmmm ... well I be reckening dat you be da closest we be havin ta a lich ... ya be making sounds like a lich, ya smell like a lich but if ya be sayin ya not a lich den I recken I gots ta take ya word fer it but I be callin ya a lich none da less." Varro motions to a passing by wench fer another mead as he finishes off the one that he has been carrying around the inn on his hunt.
"Well I suppose that's reasonable enough... for a dwarf's logic."
"Well anywho I be Varro, wut do dey call you ....other dan lich?"
"I am Wilam, of Waterdeep," he responds, trying to keep his eyes from tearing from the putrid smell that was sitting next to him.
He's able to bear it for now, but isn't sure how much longer his attempt to turn the tables will work before it backfires.
"What brings you and your... friends to Winterhaven?" Maybe I can pretend to be a local... it may give me more sway.
Varro continues to look around for "serving wenches" but continues to not find any.
Every time he mentions a 'serving wench' the Innkeeper looks his way, shooting him a somewhat cold glare that only a woman could give.
"Waterdeep ...ya don't say ... what brings you way out here?"
"I asked first, friend... besides, it's a long and boring story that isn't fit for a place or time such as this."
"Well, How ya feel about dos critters dat some call Kobolds, Murderin lot if ya be askin me .. whut ya think of those beardless gnomes?”
Wilam's head begins to hurt from the tossing questions. He takes a deep breath and tries to keep up. "Well, I can't say I've had a run-in with them. I must be lucky... but I've heard nothing good about them, if that's what you mean."
His nostrils are burning now, but he ignores the pain. Dwarves are nearly dispicable with their hygiene. How they manage is beyond me!
Varro whips out a piece of crumpled paper and lays it out on the table, Leaning in close to Wilam he states
"de villianios bugger who be killin me dragon had dis on em .. do you read critter scratches?"
"Oh, well let me have a closer look. I happen to be a specialist with languages. It's probably Draconic in nature." Wilam holds the paper at arms length, moving it in and out to bring the scribbles in focus.
Varro leans in closer.
Taking his time to decipher the markings, Wilam quickly gets the rough idea.
"Hmmm..." Wilam rubs his chin. "Yes, I do believe I've got it." This is your chance, Wilam! He will certainly want you to take him to the kobold's lair to exact his revenge... Trade this for his help with the keep. Thank Ioun!
Wilam puts down the note and looks Varro in the eyes. "I have a proposition...I'm certain the contents of this note will be of great interest to you, but I would like to bargain for your help in a matter of my own."
"well lets be hearin it Lich ..er ... I mean... Wilich."
"Wilam," he corrects.
"dat be what I meant .. Willy"
"Well anyhow, the note describes the directions to the kobold's lair. I will take you there, and possibly even help you with avenging your departed comrade if you'll agree to help me investigate some old ruins to the north east of Winterhaven."
Varro strokes his beard a few times as he ponders the proposition. " Hmmm ...well ... der mighten be a problem wit dat ... ya see. hmmm ... we ta be needing ta ... hmmm ... ya after we be gettin dem critters back ... does dat map say anyting about shinies ... I recken dat dis spot 'er on da map ... I be thinkin fer sure it be saying something about the critters shinies
Anywho ... Ya see after we get dem critters back fer whut dey did to me dragon ... den dis feller from Fallcrest be wantin us ta chheck out some keep 'er abouts ...den I recken we could be checkin out dos ruins ov yours"
"The keep? There's only one keep here... and the ruins that I speak of are that very place. I do believe we're both heading to the same place," Wilam is getting almost beside himself in excitement... or at least as excited as he can get for an old man. "I'll be happy to leave all the 'shinies' from the Kobold Lair to you and we'll see what we find in the keep, if anything, and discuss it at that time."
The stench finally overwhelms Wilam and he's forced to call off his spell. The smell instantly disappears and the room returns to the mixture of beer and roasted chicken.
"Well I recken ya best be meeting da udders den."
"Of course!" Well done, old man, well done! ... Ahem! And thank you, Ioun. I never understand how I manage to doubt your wisdom.
"Come ov'r er wit me and I be doin da introductions"
Varro holds on to Wilam's robes and leads him to the table with the others.
"Caught me a Lich... I be tellin ya I smelled something ...and sure enough, I caught me a lich. it be touch and go der fer a bit ... thought me nose was goin ta fall off with dat stench .. but I recken he got sick ov smellin it so ...den it stoped.
Granted he says he ain't no lich ... but if I be a lich I be sayin I wasn't one too.
Dis be Wilich ... I mean Willy. Willy dis be da udders"
Varro slides ehud over a bit so wilam can sit down and then takes his seat back beside Belimir
"Dis feller can read critter scratch ...and he be sayin dat when be helpin us get dem critters back fer whut dey did ta me dragon dat we be able ta keep all da shinies ... he said dat ..so dat must mean der be lots of shinies ...says so right on da map don't it willy?"
Belimir`s eyes start to spark at the mention of shinies. He looks at the two, apparently trying to find out where the shinies are.
Throughout Varro's speech, Wilam smiles with tight lips and a half embarrassed expression. He lets the dwarf get all the rambling out of his system and then begins to clarify...
"Greetings, my name is Wilam, of Waterdeep. It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance." He spreads the paper back on the table and explains, "The writing is most primative, but I was able to decipher what I believe is directions to and from the kobold's lair. Now, our friend here," he motions at Varro, "has explained you're also interested in checking out the nearby abandoned keep. It just so happens that a friend of mine and I have also been planning on paying a visit to the same keep. We're told it's dangerous, but you look like the sort who would be handy in a battle, so I've proposed that we join together to aid each other in our quests."
"Willich... Will... Lich... Lichwool...Lich... Willly willy will you take me to your licher. Wilam Waterdavian lich king. Decipher oh lich...," Ehud slurs rolling his head on the table, getting some gravy in his hair. He's finished the bottle of whiskey. "Umm... Wilich. You got... you got a keep to visit and I gotz battles to happen. Deal." He moves to shake Wilam's hand and ends up shaking his shoulder. He then climbs over the table/others, "Inn keeper--ROOM!" He pulls out a bunch of coins and shoves them in the innkeepers hands and lets himself be guided to a room where he promptly disolves into sleep.
Wilam isn't really sure what to make of this sudden outburst. He silently watches it unfold. Don't be offended, it's just the ale talking.
"Nevermind him, he be a lightweight ... he be fine come mornin."
"It is morning."
"Yea, I be knowing dat ... I didn't say whut mornin he be fine by. But I be reckening from dat looks ov him it not be dis mornin."
Annoyed that the conversation has steered away from shinies, Belimir interupts the conversation. "So............You say there are shinies in that......" he looks at the map, and points his finger to the scratch "....that!"
"I understand what he be sayin." Belimir once again attempts to talk like Varro. "I say we rest and move there as soon as possible."
"ya still need work on dat accent but I be agreein wit ya der me feline friend."
Remembering Belimir's ability to tranform into a cat, Varro's eyes widen
"Speakin about ya werekitty powers, I be meanin ta discuss wit ya da prospect of ya biting me and givin me dat power."
Belimir keeps a straight face at the dwarfs request. "You really think you can handle it? It`s not that simple. It requires that you be without sleep for 3 days and that the last enemy you fought was a cat-like creature. Also, we`ll need some herbs to treat the wounds after I bite you, and.........you`ll have to do.........The Dance!"
"So what ya be tellin me is dat if ya was ta be bitin me right now and we did all da girlie stuff dat goes along wit it dat I would be turnin inta a kobold?”
"Ok, dat does it ... I guess I be havin ta fight ya den, den ya can be bitin me and den I guess we can do all dat girly stuff"
Belimir continues in a flat but serious voice. "No. Not me. You have to fight another cat-like creature. A lion, panther, tiger, and you must not kill it. And it must not kill you. Until this happens, we cannot continue your transformation."
Having remained outside the town gates for quite some time in meditation, Nuit finally decides to seek sustenance within the town and heads to the Inn. Once there he orders a mug of ale before joining his new companions where they are sitting.
"Oh Hell Nuit ... I be thinkin we be missin somebody, where ya been Lad?"
Catching only the last bit of the conversation, and seeing the new person, he is slightly confused but holds his tongue, assuming he will soon be tolk all about it by one of his more, overenthusiastic, companions
"By de way dis be me Lich, Willy. He be able ta read Critter Scratch. He be just tellin us about all da shinies we reckenin ta find in der Lair ... we goin ta rest a bit den go after den critters dat killed me dragon, an' whut ever an Irontooth be."
Nuit's hand springs to his heavy flail.
Did you say a Lich?
Black wisps begin swirling around Nuit's hand as it grips the handle, arms tensing for combat.
Doesn't look like a lich, but I must be on my guard anyway.
Belimir jumps off his chair the minute black wisps start appearing near Nuit. This is FOUL! He then talks to Nuit, annoyed. "You really have to stop doing that.....or at least announce those........" he points at the wisps, "........thingies will start flying." He politely bows to Nuit and sits back on his chair, mumbling in disapproval.
"Do not be alarmed, friend," Wilam smiles warmly, "I'm no lich... My name is Wilam. I'm a student of the gods and a... wizard, if you must classify my ties to magic."
Wilam goes on to explain the deal, once more.
Nuit removes his hand from his weapon and visibly calms, but is still slightly wary.
I apologise for my reaction then. I suppose I should know better than to take Varro's claims of such a nature at face value, but I cannot help but react to mention of things such as Liches.
"Well he be old as da dirt and he be a finger-waggler so whut else be old and be a finger-waggler ... a Lich.. He be claimin ta not be a lich but I recken if I be a lich, I be claimin ta not be one to. We be jus havin ta see if he be a lich or not ...till den we will take im fer him word. Jus like me dragon, May he be restin in peace, he be claimin ta not be a dragon but we know how dat went down. Anywho. So Like I be sayin me lich 'er be willin ta take us ta da lair ov da Critters dat killed me dragon, extract our revenge and deal with whute'er a Irontooth be. den we going ta team up and check out dis Keep dat me Lich be callin Ruins ... I not sure if dat be da same place but he be certian dat it is. So eat, drink, be merry, den rest up we gots us a good day ahead ov us .. maybe several days." Varro finishes another mug.
"Say, Varro... Who is this Irontooth you keep mentioning?"
"In da battle dat me dragon be fallin, I be able ta subdue a critter fer questioning. I be interegatin dat critter, I be askin dat bugger who told dem ta attack us. Den dat lil goblin dung said one ting before he peed on me and dat be Irontooth. Did I mention dat lil yeller bugger peed on me? Whut kind of bitter badger would do such a thing." I can't believe he peed on me...
Blahblahblahblahblah...........Belimir`s thoughts start wondering to some wild places filled with untamed nature. He was comfortable there, until some random noise from the inn brought him back to the table. He turns to Varro, who was still talking: "You talk too much. You should talk less. And keep things simple. I never heard dwarves talked this much. You sure you`re a dwarf?" He stands up (again) and says. "We should rest, then off to get us some shinies. And then do all the other blahblahblah you`ve been mumblin` about." He bows to everyone at the table, naming them separately. "Varro, Nuit, Wil....lam, I`m off to join Ehud. He is a smart, drunk, man. Good n.......day. I will be waiting for you at the gate."
Having said that, Belimir walks out through the door, then through the Winterhaven gate, goes to the nearest thicket where he shapeshifts into a puma. He makes himself comfortable in the nearest bush and goes to sleep.
The day has passed considerably with the party sitting around the table inside Wrafton's Inn. Several party members ahve retired for the day to rest up for their adventure in the morning.
As the afternoon closes, Winterhaven's regular patrons to the inn wander in and take their expected seats.
This night, however, offers a few more visitors to the inn that the night before.
Wilam recognizes Valthrun as he enters the taproom. The old sage sits at a table near the door, Salvana bringing him what appears to be his usual food and drink order.
A few moments after Valthrun entered the establishment, in walks a short man dressed in fairly regal clothing. He has an air of importance about him, although no one at the inn seems to give him an excessive amount of attention. He does receive a friendly greeting from all inside.
Wilam raises a curious ear directed at any conversation between Valthrun and his companion... tries not to draw any attention to himself.
Varro deciding that he should probably rest so that he is at his best for the morning, takes his leave of all who are left at the table. picking up his dishes and mugs that the barkeep has not had a chance to collect on his rounds, he goes to the bar.
"Me fine sir I be thanking you fer ya kind words and kinder service ta meself and ta me friends I be hopin dat we not be too much trouble. I be reckenin dat I be in need ov rest now. Can I bodder you fer a room?"
Varro places the dishes and mugs on the bar like a makeshift busboy.
Where dos dat bugger Belimir get off telling me I talk too much ... If I be able ta jus get upstairs and be layin down den I surely be able ta get some rest, dat is when da room stops spinnin.
Salvana looks at the dwarf curiously for a second then smiles lightly, realizing that he has had a lot to drink. "G'night sir, and perhaps in the morning you will remember that I am a woman. No harm done though. Have a good rest. Your room is the third door to the left up the stairs."
The innkeeper marks something down on a peice of paper, and goes back to cleaning dishes.
Looks like we're heading out tomorrow morning, then... I suppose I should find Francis and tell him of my... our... the plan.
Wilam stays a little longer and takes his time finishing off his drink. He continues to ponder the situation and decides everything is working out well. He pulls out his Tome and begins studying some of his favorite spells and rituals. He eventually finds himself tired and, after inspecting the world beyond a nearby window has gone dark, realizes he should probably turn in for the night. Wilam, you have a big day ahead of you... a big day, indeed.
Francis comes down after having prayed and meditated for several hours. Catching Wilam on his way to bed, he says in Elven, "I noticed you talking to a rambunctious group earlier today and thought I might give you leave to deal with them, assuming you were investigating information regarding the keep. I did not want to disrupt rapport you were building. Did you find anything?"
Wilam rolls his eyes. "Rambunctious is just the word... but I assure you there was hardly any rapport being built. It will be a wonder if they remember me in the morning. They're a bunch of drunken fools wandering aimlessly about. But, never-the-less, I believe they'll be of some use to us." Wilam relaxes a little. Francis' cool demeanor and level headedness is a welcome relief. "It just so happens they were also planning on paying a visit to the keep. I don't think they realize what dangers lie within, but I'd be willing to bet they're at least useful in a fight. I've agreed to help them with a small task in return for their help with investigating the keep. They know nothing of the reward we've been offered, so if we preserve our secret, we will have no trouble keeping it to ourselves.”
Francis squints his eyes. We can't assume these people are trustworthy. "Task? What does this task involve?"
"Oh, it's nothing, really... They want to get revenge on some kobolds that attacked them just outside the city. They found directions to the kobold's lair, but they're written in Draconic. My side of the deal is to simply take them to the lair."
"Kobolds," Francis says, slowly to stall for time as he silently prays to Oghma:
Lord of knowledge
Binder of what is known
I pray that Your whispers,
brilliant and sparkling,
shine upon the darkness
of what I do not know:
is this unusual behavior for Kobolds? How do they normally act?
Francis finishes his prayer and a quiet voice whispers in his mind:
*Kobolds are a simple race. Capable of great feats when they band together. They take on many evil roles including banditry and theivery. They hunt in packs, and generally follow orders from a smarter, stronger, or more powerful being. This can be anything from Orcs to Ogres, to Goblins or even Dark Elves.*
The voice fades quietly.
"We must be wary," Francis says quietly, still speaking in Elven. "These Kobolds may be connected to the evil we seek. If they are, then it would be no coincidence that these travelers were attacked on their way there. We shall discover if these Kobolds are an obstacle or a distraction." With that, he bows, bids Wilam a good night and returns to his room for the night.
"Hmmm... Wise words, my friend," Wilam pondered... "Wise words, indeed."
"Well, Francis, I have spent most of the day wasting time in this inn. I think I shall tour the town to get a breath of fresh air before I retire for the night."
Wilam stands and clears the table of his dishes, dropping them off at the bar. He then leaves the inn and spends some time walking around somewhat aimlessly around Winterhaven. He's not looking for anything particular... he's just getting familiar with the lay of the city and getting away from the thick atmosphere of the inn.
After his walk, he returns to his room and continues studying the limited material he is able to carry while travelling.
After spending many hours in the Temple of Avandra, Brann finally emerges.
I've done all I can for Bronn's soul, the rest is in the hands of the Gods. Moradin be praised. Now to find the others and let them know what I've learnt. Perhaps we can spare some time to visit Tabitha and see if there is any truth to this rumour.
It's night outside and Brann notices his own weariness. He wanders over to the tavern and peers in through the door. The innkeeper is cleaning up for the night and it looks like someone had a good night. There is a table off in the corner with several tankards piled up and empty greasy platters.
"Greetings, I arrived this afternoon with a small group from out of town. I've been at the temple helping to send our late Dragonborn friend on his journey to the afterlife. I haven't yet had a chance to eat and was wondering if you still had some food in your kitchen and time to let me have a quick drink?"
Perhaps this young lady has more information about the town?
Sitting down at the bar, Brann quizzes the innkeeper, "I've seen that there is some unrest around town and the priests have told me that they heard Tabitha's husband has gone missing. My companions and I might be able to assist if you are having problems?"
Salvana smiles at the dwarf.
"You're in luck! I saved a portion of tonight's meal for any late-night stragglers who venture in. Let me get you a plate."
With a light step, Salvana exits into the room behind the bar. The sounds of a few plates clinking together and a metal laddle scrapping against a pot float out of the room.
A moment later, Salvana presents Brann with a plate of chicken and potatoes, and a cold mug of cider.
"Here you are, I hope you enjoy it! The food was a popular choice tonight with a group of adventurers who were visiting. The cider is my personal favorite. I hope you like it as well."
She listens as Brann asks her about the town and about Tabitha's husband.
"Hrmmm...Well, the townspeople have been walking around fairly nervous lately. But who knows? I am not able to read minds. As far as this woman Tabitha, I'm not sure I've heard of a Tabitha. Although, Winterhaven is fairly big, she might be a new inhabitant of the town. Old Eilian might know of someone missing. He tends to know a lot about Winterhaven and it's going-ons. He has left for Fallcrest this afternoon and should be back within a day or two. Other than that, I am not having any problems myself. But thank you for asking!"
The night passes and all in the party get a full nights sleep, waking fully rested and rejuvinated. The dawn is just breaking and the inn is quiet.
Varro emerges from his room bright and early. He gathers all of his things and heads down to the bar for breakfast. He appears to be in high spirits.
"Barkeep, I be hopin dat we not be keepin ya up too late last eve. I must be thankin ya again fer such a livly time we be havin. I be wonderin can I be askin ya fer breakfast, if ya be havin a moment. Da udders be down soon, I be reckenin." Varro taps his greataxe. "We be settlin some wrongs dis mornin, can't be doin dat on an empty belly."
The barkeep smiles warmly at the friendly dwarf.
"I am sure you all had a good time, Salvana mentioned the lot o'ya when she left this morning to get some rest. She be enjoyin' yer company and welcomes your stay longer if ye want. An best o'luck to ya on yer venturin' out!”
Francis rises, self-flagelates while praying to Oghma, and decides to prepare for the trip to the Kobold lair by purchasing healing potions at Bairwin's. He gets dressed, then walks downstairs and out of the Inn without acknowledging anyone there. He then walks briskly toward Bairwin's Shoppe.
Francis enter's Bairwin's Shoppe. Inside there are numerous shelves full of miscellanious odds and ends. Bairwin is sitting behind a counter that stretches from one wall to the next, blocking off access to the back of the building. He greets the paladin as he enters the shop.
"Hail my short friend! You look as though you are in need of some adventuring equipment! You have come to the right place! I have a few grappling hooks that I just got in early this week. I carry rope, bags, bedrolls, candles, almost anything you could name. What can I interest you in?"
Francis nods as Bairwin greets him. He walks towards the counter as he talks. "I am actually looking for healing potions. I'm leaving town with some associates and wish to prepare for trouble if it arises"
"Healing potions....healing potions...hrmm...lemme see here."
Bairwin disappears under the counter for a moment. You can hear rummaging around, glasses clanking, items rattling around. Finally he emerges from under the counter.
"Ah ha! Found a couple! I have two potions of healing available today. They are 50 gold each. Care to purchase them my friend?"
Francis momentarily widens his eyes in surprise. He calmly smiles and says, "yes, I would like to purchase both of them." He pulls out four bags, each holding 25 gold pieces, hands them over, and calmly waits for Bairwin to count them.
Bairwin jingles the bags in his hands, holds his tongue out and squints his eyes.
"MMmmmm...." He concentrates for a second. "Perfect! One hundred gold exactly! Thank ye kindly sir! Here are your potions!"
Bairwin hands over the healing potions and tucks the bags of gold neatly under the counter.
Belimir wakes up. Nothing like a good sleep in the wilderness. The puma yawns, stretches its paws and is of hunting. After a few minutes, it is back in it`s bush, eating a rabbit. They grow so big here. After he finishes his meal, he scouts the surrounding area, then goes back to the town entrance and shapeshifts back into his human form. I don`t want to scare the others like last time.
Brann yawns and stretches out after a good nights rest. He kneels down to carry out his ritual morning prayers to Moradin.
That cider was pretty good, might have to get some more this morning before we leave. Right, well lets find the others and see what they've been up to.
Brann fills up his pack and heads downstairs to the bar. He looks around and notices Varro ordering some breakfast.
"I'd be grateful for a large plate of meat and some more of that cider from last night", he asks the barkeep.
"Varro, how are you faring this morning, it looked like you all had a good time last night judging by the state of the inn when I arrived. I'm guessing you tried the cider, it was almost as good as some of the stuff back home."
"Have you had any luck with that map the Kobolds dropped? I'd like to track down this Irontooth and give him a taste of dwarf steel."
"Aye, twas a damn good time, indeed. Caught me a Lich, Ov course he be claimin ta not be a lich but dat be expected. Anywho, He be able ta read critter scratch and he be joinin us on our raid on da critter's camp. I be reckenin dat whatever an Irontooth be we be findin it der.
As far as dat cider, I didn't get da pleasure ov tryin it last eve, stuck to mead and whiskey, but if dat be wut da gave me dis morn den I got me a mug right ere. Mighty fine brew fer not bein kin.
ya get me dragon all ready fer him trip home and ta da afterlife?"
Varro continues his breakfast and cider, as he takes inventory of his troups and their preparedness.
Wilam was surprised that he didn't wake in a nightmare. He went about his morning routine and made his way to the inn.
"der be me lich now. He gets kinda pissy when ya call him a lich, So I be stickin ta wilich or ... ummm ...Willy... ya Willy."
He easily notices the group familiar faces and takes a seat with them. He keeps silent, but gives a nod and small smile to those he makes eye contact with.
arro nods to Wilam as he sits on at the table. Putting his arm around Brann "Dis be me kin, Brann. Brann dis be me ... ummm ... hmmm ... Well dis be Willy."
He notices there is a dwarf that he hadn't met the day before. He quickly attempts to count the number of people that he could remember. The crazy dwarf... Varro. The quiet, awkward fellow... the drunk human... the paranoid elf... Yes. There were 4 until now. I don't remember anyone saying anything about a 5th member. Wilam briefly studies the new dwarf and tries to infer something about him.
Wilam can tell this dwarf has something to do with the gods, perhaps he is a cleric, but of which god he is unsure of.
Nuit wakes in the morning and stops by the Inn to get a light breakfast. He lets Varro know he will meet up with the group on the way out of town before heading out to go meditate just outside of the the town, sitting in prayer to the Raven Queen.
"Sure ting Nuit, ya be keepin an eye fer Belimir, I tink he was meetin us out dat way as well. Remember he be likin ta run about as a Devil cat of some sort." Varro continues with his hearty Breakfast.
Varro takes a final count. "Well Brudder, It seems we be havin belimir and Nuit meetin us about da gate out ov town, Me and you be eatin ere, dat leaves Ehud, he must be sleepin 'ard, he be mighty piss drunk last I saw him. Prehaps one ov us need ta be checkin on him.
Willy, You joinin us alone or ya be bring an ov yours friends?
Oh an someting ta keep in mind we not be doin dis raid fer contract ... we be doin it fer revenge so if ya not be up fer it den we be understandin. I be feelin bad if ya were ta end up like me dragon over all dis, yous not even be havin a quarrel wit des critters like us.”
"Oh, had no intentions of staying behind. I believe we've come to a deal about my participation in this... adventure. I'll be your guide to the kobolds and you'll be my escort in the keep. Our ends will both be met and all Winterhaven will..." Wilam catches himself and fumbles his words for a second. Stop! You fool! That's far too much information. "Ahem... I met with my companion, Francis, last night and he should be arriving soon. He is a nice fellow and I'm sure you'll get along just fine with him."
