Hunt Or Be Hunted

[Revenant]

Vari, Ruskin and Kade all help the prisoners off their horses, looking to the Captain to see if they are about to be hustled off to cells. Vari remarks to Torvik, "I think we must be in the wrong town Commander. No one's tried to attack us or trap us in a tomb with ravenous zombies yet." Ruskin adds, "I'm sure that comin' soon enough Vari."

Miklos coughs when he sees you have five prisoners in all, "Well Commander, in the jail we've got two cells that can sleep two each. If you don't mind one cell being overcrowded, I won't object to stowing them away for ya. Young Noren Alvar, son of one the local farmers, helps me keep watch when we've occupants. But I wouldn't want to keep them long term. We're not really set up for that. We can send word to the Landing for the Lord's men to come get them though. I'll send a rider today, if you and the Ladies are so obliged."

He then turns when Nis approaches and places a kiss on his forehead. Startled, he blushes slightly at her words, "I...I do me best." Turning to the two nobles, he adds, "Tellin," pointing towards his store, "He sells mostly goods to the farmers and hunters hereabouts. He buys stuff too on occasion. And Kalron is the local smith. Not much call for armor here but he does make weapons for the folk when needed. And Makalis is a hunter and leatherworker. Might have some goods, if he's not out roving. As to lodging, there's but one inn and that's the Traveler's Rest. Benjin Feadd is the owner."

Theossia greets Nis warmly and adds to the others, "If there isn't enough room at Feadd's, I can let any who wish to camp in the shrine. While I cannot offer much it is warm and a free roof over your heads."

Abaessa too blushes at Niserie's touch nodding in agreement to her words, "You called her De'ath? My mistress had not revealed her name to me and...this is not one I would have guessed. What has she revealed to you?"

A couple of young men at work in the fields nearby look your way and stop and stare. It is clear they have never seen two elves before. Their father cuffs them on the back of their heads and they return to their chores.

[tristenc]

Nis smiles warmly to Miklos at his humility.

She thanks Theossia, I may take you up on that, if you would allow my companion. Don't be rude, Ducky. Say hello. The black cat with white socks rubs De'Athyra as he moves to the front. Sitting next to Nis' now-bare feet he lets out a casual Mrow.

To Abaessa, Yes, De'Athyra. I was told to find her and protect her. She new my name when I found her, and who sent me. Unfortunately we haven't found anyone who can speak her language, aside from one of her captors who was slain.

[GreyWolfVT]

Miklos coughs when he sees you have five prisoners in all, "Well Commander, in the jail we've got two cells that can sleep two each. If you don't mind one cell being overcrowded, I won't object to stowing them away for ya. Young Noren Alvar, son of one the local farmers, helps me keep watch when we've occupants. But I wouldn't want to keep them long term. We're not really set up for that. We can send word to the Landing for the Lord's men to come get them though. I'll send a rider today, if you and the Ladies are so obliged."

Torvik in response to this part "I'll volunteer ta help guard em an, I'll volunteer me recruits to help as well." listening to his recruits chatter before this he just chuckles and shakes his head.

[spanningtree]

Thena

Thena dismounts while Vari, Ruskin and Kade take the prisoners.

When time permits she approaches Theossia and Abaessa: Sister Theossia, Sister Abaessa, salutations, I am sister Thena, Crusader of Tempus. The prisoners are particularly nefarious… please advise me if the burden is excessive. We can take them to Gulls Landing if that is the case. We have recovered several potions that need identification, is that something that can be performed here?

Approaching Nis: There is a full suite of fur armor in what was recovered… in need of repair, I think the locals may be able to assist with that. The taint of those that used it may… make it undesirable though. Shrug.

As the day goes on a bit Thena grabs Kade, when he has a chance, and hits up the local smith to see if they can rent his forge to repair the plate armor from the battle. Thena will also kick in some extra monies if the local smith can help expedite both suits.

Approaching Miklos: I am sister Thena, Crusader of Tempus. The prisoners are a rotten lot... the burden is great. I will take a watch over the prisoners as well...

[Rex]

Bryne

"Mave's decision but I think sending word to the lord for some men is a good idea."

To the guardsman,

"I will also help with securing the prisoners, they are a dangerous lot."


She will go to the cells and make sure the building they are in is secure, inside and out.

[Darithe]

Mave

Mave takes Miklos by the hand, "I wonder good sir, if you might give me a quick tour of the town, while my friends attend to their business? I would report to my father any needs you or the townsfolk might have."

[The Bindoner]

Wilwayaisawén


Wilwarin keeps very much to herself, being uncomfortable among strangers, and aware of her status as “curiosity” in this remote village.

She bows her head respectfully to the elders, and young cleric, but remains silent (unless addressed directly).

When the security of the prisoners is discussed, she glides up and quietly adds:

I, too, will take my share in guarding these men. They are wicked and resourceful, I have no doubt, and as such should be watched at all times. Besides, I think we need to question them on some matters that interest me.

[Revenant]

Mave leads Miklos off as she inspects the town and the accomodations at the inn. Bryne takes this time to inspect the jail quarters and finds them quite sturdy and well-built. No prisoners will be escaping these confinements. The commander and rangers ensconce the prisoners in the cells, the two from the tomb in one cell and the three from campsite in the other. Kade Ruskin and Vari will take turns on watch to be supplemented by the others as needed. Before he leaves with Mave, Miklos entrusts the keys to the cells to Torvik.

Sister Theossia and Sister Abaessa both warmly receive Thena. Though Abaessa leaves you once introduction and pleasantries are exchanged. She is interested in talking to Nis and De'Ath, though certainly the girl won't understand their conversation as the novice doesn't speak whatever language she speaks. "So she knew your name?" Abaessa asks. Wondering how, and wishing she could ask the girl herself, who seems utterly uninterested in the conversation, more concerned with playing with Niserie's cat.

Theossia and Thena talk of the potions and while she doesn't have the knowledge to identify them herself. She does tell Thena that the church of Chauntea in Gull's Landing would likely be able to help her. She will tell her where in the city the temple is located.

After rooms are arranged by Mave, and free of charge at the innkeeper's insistence, there are enough bed for 6 within the inn and dinner will be served to the entire company.

After dinner Kade and Thena walk over the smithy which is open late as he works on repairing one of the farmers' plow. The forge is already lit and the bushy bearded smith says you can use it for a couple of gold as long as you clean up any mess you make.

At night the town is quiet and tranquil, with little going on save your own activities.

[tristenc]

Nis thanks Thena about the fur armor and will examine it to see if it is redeemable or too filthy to use. She would also enquire at the hunter's about repairing it or replacing it.

Nis will stay in the Temple.

To Abessa. Yes, she knew my name and knew me by sight... perhaps she had some sort of vision? How was it you came to search for her?

[Rex]

Bryne

Bryne will check/clean up her equipment/armor/weapons and make sure everything is in good repair and deal with it is she needs to.

[spanningtree]

Thena

Will give the smith thanks a and two gold and two more if he stays to help expedite the repairs to the suits of plate mail. She will try to help and learn as much as possible. When they finish she will pray for spells and take sleep in the shrine, if there is enough time.

OCC: 4 gp deducted, let me know if Thena has time

[GreyWolfVT]

Torvik tends to the guard duty with his recruits. Checking in on them when he is not on watch. He makes sure to keep the keys in his possession and never near enough to the prisoners for them to try and pick from his pockets. When he isn't doing that his mind thinks back to the dwarves at the mine they escaped and he hopes the three of them are still alive. He'd like to have a drink with them again some day. The dwarf woman he can't stop thinking about she was his type of woman.

[The Bindoner]

Wilwayaisawén





Wilwarin helps get the prisoners into the cells, and checks the security of the room.

As the captives are shut in, she tells them: Some of my companions speak of justice, but theirs is human. I have a different standard, I am not bound to hand you to any lord.


She approaches Torvik, and explains she needs to question the prisoners from the brigand camp, to ask them about Zedamande – where he joined them, what they were doing with him, where he might head next. He is the reason she is here, and she must pursue his trail.

She hopes he will help, or at least not hinder.

Wilwarin explains that her first incentive will be better food, but she may offer a freedom she has no intention of granting, and perhaps threaten a torture or execution she also has no intention of committing. As far as she is concerned, these are dishonourable men, and dishonourable methods are permitted with them, so she has no compunction in lies or coercion.

[Revenant]

Thena and Kade busy themselves with the repairs to the plate armor. Kade is surprisingly skilled, though he explains he apprenticed as a smith before he and Ruskin ran off from the big city to join the rangers. Kalron, an older man in his fifties with a flash of grey at the temples of his dark hair watches after finishing the plow repair and then steps in to help with one of the more difficult repairs. Kalron says to Kade, "You do good work lad. If you ever tire of the rangers, I've need of an apprentice." Kade merely grins and replies that for now all he wants is the ranger life. After some time, both Thena and Kade finish and their plate armors fully repaired, are ready for the next altercation. Kalron bids them a goodnight and waits while the forge cools down before he heads off to bed.

Wilwarin's words seem shake the two dark haired men, Grange & Jiv, but Mek merely smirks and assures them the elf hasn't the guts to hurt them and her companions would object if she tried. He gruffly tells them to not tell *the damned elf* a word. Tobby and Clayte the two from Brindleseep remain silent.

Abaessa responds to Nis, "I wasn't told her name, I only saw her in a dream sent by the Moonmaiden. I saw her clearly and she was surrounded by shadows. I was told there were many who sought her death, that her....presence...was important in the coming darkened days. And that I was to give my life to keep her safe. As a novice, I am limited in my skills, which is why I assume others like yourself were sent." She reaches out a hand to touch hers. "I guess our task makes us sisters."

[The Bindoner]

Wilwarin allows herself a small smile. Mek has already earned her animosity, and now he has selected himself as "an example". He can be first.


Unless Mek actually attempts to escape, all Wilwarin intends to do is tie him hand-and-foot, cause him enough non-damaging pain to make him cry out, gag him and stash him out of sight before questioning the others. If she is lucky, Mek will genuinely underestimate her and attempt something stupid.

[tristenc]

Nis smiles and takes her hand warmly. Indeed it seems so. Unfortunately I've no idea where what her destination is since we cannot yet speak to her. Perhaps her vision has shown her where she is bound... Giving the girl's hand a gentle squeeze first, she releases it.
Do you or sister Theossia have any prayers to allow communication with one who speaks an unknown tongue? I have not yet earned that particular favor from my mistress. Otherwise, we may have to help her find someone who can communicate.

She considers Abaessa, If her path takes her away from here, will you follow? Or was your task to protect her until she was in the care of others?

[GreyWolfVT]

Torvik if on guard during the interrogation just ignores what's going on and guards the others. If any of the other pioneers look his way he just replies "Just be glad it ain't you."

[Darithe]

Mave

After the tour of the town and making mental notes for any help the town needs, which she intends to relay to her father, Mave retires to her room. Happy to be in a warm bed once again.

[Revenant]

Thena and Kade leave the smithy and make their way back to their accommodations for the night.

Abaessa thinks a moment on Nis' questions, "Alas I have not the blessings to speak in tongues." A comment that Sister Theossia seconds, as she too confirms neither have that ability. The Moonmaiden has deemed I protect her, where ever she goes. So if she travels on, I must follow, whether you will have my company or not," she half-smiles.

Mek's eyes go wide as Torvik unlocks the cell and Wilwarin and Ruskin both bind his hands and feet and drag him out of sight of his two companions. When they are outside the jail, Ruskin boots Mek in the back legs causing him to fall face first in the dirt and let out a cry of surprise. Mek then cusses loudly and spits in Wilwarin's direction missing her by several feet. Ruskin leans down and puts his knee in Mek's back and glances up at Wilwarin grinning. Ruskin then pulls his dagger and places it against the top of his ear, and whispers in the man's ear loud enough for Wilwarin to hear what he says, "Mek, you're gonna scream like I'm cutting your ear off. If you fail to convince me with those screams, I'll cut if off for real." Mek begins to holler like a stuck pig. Ruskin looks up at Wilwarin and grins.

Wilwarin returns back to the jail and both Jiv and Grange cower back from the bars. Jiv asks, "Did ya kill him?" When Wilwarin asks her questions both men stumble over the other to give her prompt answers. Zed and his crew joined us at the campsite a couple of days before you showed up. He was friends with the boss. They weren't talking outside of the tents so I don't know why they showed up. I heard Scaithe say they were headed to the Landing, don't know why but the boss was headed that way to and going on then to Lionsgate. They look at the elf, fear apparent on their faces awaiting if she has more questions.

[tristenc]

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Rev,

Would you allow an unconventional use of "Cantrip" to, say.... allow Nis to detect if De'Athrya is in some way capable of being or already a conduit for Nicneven's power? Just trying to get a read on her.

If so i wrote a little attempt at the end of this post, if not, disregard the implied magic effect, but she will still join hands and introduce De'Athrya and Abaessa
=====

Nis squeezes Abaessa's hand at the jest. Seems I couldn't stop you if I wanted to. she winks and smirks. Looping her elbow with the Selunite's she turns so they are both facing their young charge who is currently playing with Ducky. De'Athrya must be pretty important for our Mistresses to involve two such charming, talented and yet amazingly humble devotees like ourselves. she grins a little at her own jest.

Pursing her lips, she tilts her head onto Abaessa's shoulder as she muses over the young enigma before them. I wonder what her fate is... Once we know a little more about her maybe I can take a peek at it... But first...

Unlooping her elbow she takes Abaessa's hand and walks over to De'Athrya, where she takes the young girl's hand in her other. She nods, encouraging the two to join their hands as well and complete the circle as they all face each other. She nods to the rescued girl, De'Athrya. then she nods to the cleric, Abaessa. She smiles at the young stranger, hoping at least something of the importance of the connection the three share can sink in without language. Mew, Ducky concurs, stepping to each in turn and rubbing his side against their shins.

(If the cantrip thing is a viable attempt)
Nis closes her eyes and breathes deeply and smoothly, filling her lungs completely and emptying them in a slow sigh. Drawing upon thhe source, the lady of Copper and Crystal she speaks softly but enough for the two beside her to hear; though they may not understand. Mun cuairt, mun cuairt, araon shuas agus sìos; ann an cuibhlichean farsaing agus snìomhain teann. Gu h-àrd, gu h-ìosal, a-staigh agus a-muigh; agus nighidh iad uile san t-solus. An driùchd de mhaduinn cheòtha, 's oidhcheannan ciar-dhubh ; leig le motes faerie de shradag nàduir a dhol nar sealladh.

Around, around, both up and down; in wheels wide and spirals tight. Above, below, within and out; and all awash in light. The dewy drops of misty morns and twinkling twilight nights; let faerie motes of nature's spark flutter into our sight.

(The idea being if the girl is a conduit or potential one, little green motes of light will appear and swirl about her like a cloud of fireflies. Let me know if it's too much)

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edited for sooo many typos. Ugh