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Interlude

DM Kathy
Friday October 6th, 2006 1:13:05 AM
"Hello, Florin, my name is Ivy," replies the black-haired girl. She peeps at you from behind lowered lashes. "I'm not sure it would be quite proper to meet you later," she says demurely. "Will you practice here again tomorrow?"

Lorth doesn't want for attention either. "You must be very strong, to swing a heavy sword like that," says a brunette with velvety dark eyes. "Don't you ever get scared? Fighting dragons and trolls and things?" asks a slender redhead.

Davros completes his purchases and returns to the inn, where he finds Fosco enjoying an immodest repast. The wizard, however, eats hurriedly and retires to his room, intent on his task.

Arminas, Harvest, and Any make their farewells and return to town, with Ewan flying above them.

Fosco
Friday October 6th, 2006 3:36:38 AM
After drinking a couple mugs and feeling the past couple of days catching up on him, especially with the way he slept last night. I will retire to my room early, washing my face first, then collapsing on the bed and falling right away into a deep slumber.

Lorth
Friday October 6th, 2006 8:28:43 AM
"I've never fought a dragon.", Lorth says, "But I have fought trolls, and yes of course fright is something that you must deal with. But I've never not been able to overcome it, one must do what is right, no matter what the odds."
Lorth goes back to sparring with Florin. When they are done he wishes the ladies well and retires to the inn.

Any
Friday October 6th, 2006 9:44:39 AM
Upon arriving back in town, Any makes sure the horses are cared for, and pays for an extra bait of corn for them all, along with settling any lingering bill for the time they were gone.

Before entering the inn, he asks Harvest,

"Is there anything else you would like to do? Do you have any shopping or errands to run? If not, perhaps you would join me for a relaxing meal.

How about you friend Arminas? What are your plans? The first funeral is not untill tomorrow"

If they agree, Any will lead the way into the Inn, and order a meal--soup, main course, and dessert along with some cold eiswine if avaiable.

Bralin
Friday October 6th, 2006 3:49:43 PM
The dwarf remains hunched over the stone, his thick fingers somehow delicately tapping intricate lines across its surface.

Harvest
Friday October 6th, 2006 4:03:11 PM

"It is hard," Harvest replies to Arminas Calaelen, "to watch others suffer." The clop of Fyrda's hooves fill the silence as she rides on for a bit. "Especially children."

Again she falls silent.

"My mother and I were very poor when I was a child," she continues after a moment. "She was ... feeble. But she cared for me in the best way that she could. And when I grew older, still little, but old enough, I began to care for her."

"One day, a man came through our camp. His name was Pasix Mixmindor. He saw ... " A frown passes across Harvest Moon's face. A dark cloud that blocks the sun, then moves on.

"He ... stayed to care for us. He taught me. He taught me many things. And he made sure that my mother was fed and protected."

"After my mother died. And after we'd laid her to rest. He told me that he had to move on."

"And he told me that in this Wold it is possible to help too much. If you give too much to someone, you will often make them weaker. Sometimes, you must stand by. Do no more than watch as others struggle, and sometimes suffer. He said that this is sometimes very difficult. Often it is more difficult than simply helping them."

"He said that sometimes it is so difficult a thing, that you cannot bear it. And in such a case, you have no choice but to leave."

"The next day, he was gone."

The rest of the trip is made in silence. Though, at the Inn, Harvest turns a bright smile to Anthos. "I would be pleased if we could dine together. There are many things to do." She shrugs. "But there are always many things to do." Her smile does not diminish as she looks to Arminas Calaelen for his answer.

Florin Jadenth d20+2=6
Friday October 6th, 2006 4:28:13 PM
Florin nods to Ivy and takes her hand if she allows and kisses it gently before speaking again, "Well Miss Ivy, it is a harmless meal and coversation however I honor you wish and understand. I plan to practice more tomorrow also. Daily routine of mine inless I'm unable too for some reason." Florin smiles, "If you happen to change your mind then I will keep a eye out for you so we can enjoy a meal, if not then I look foreward to seeing you tomorrow."

Florin goes back to practicing with Lorth once again, giving Ivy another smile and a bow. After a few more hours of practice Florin heads back to the Inn with Lorth and talks to him along the way, "I'm going to head to the Catacombs later and get some supplies and plan to have my sword enhanced more." Florin smiles and slides his mithril longsword+1 from it's sheath and turns it in his hand, the High Woldian runes spelling it's name glowing fainly, "A wonderful weapon and one thats been with me the longest. It's called Glimmer." Florin offers to let Lorth look at the sword, the handle shaped like a dragon with it's wings spread for the guard and ruby chips set for it's eyes, a true work of art but a deadly one at that.

At the Inn Florin speaks to any of his friends that are at the Inn, seeing what they have heard or anything new has happened before he heads to his room to have a bath and then heads downstairs out of his armor and in a royal blue tunic and pants with his black boots, his trusty sword still hangs from his waist though as he never leaves without it. He orders something to eat and a drink, also glancing just to see if Ivy might of changed her mind.

(Spot:6)

Davros
Friday October 6th, 2006 11:12:57 PM
Davros has a meal ordered and sent to his room as he continues his work. I enjoy the road he thinks to himself, but it is nice to be in a quieter environment for this kind of work. As he continues working on the scrolls, Whiskers busies himself by exploring the room and looking out the window. He enjoys the view from up here.

Arminas
Saturday October 7th, 2006 4:36:00 PM
Arminas learns even more about Harvest's difficult childhood on the ride back to town.

"Your pain has given you strength, I hope the children also gain strength from the experience in Koshe Marr. You have plainly said you do not seek revenge for the death of Gerdi and Devrin. I also do not see the advantage in returning so Koshe Marr to destroy Baelfred. What is lost cannot be regained. I fear though that those who seem to quickly take oaths may feel compelled to return. It is not for me, I wish to stay here and safegaurd those who need help in this Wold."

Looking thoughtful for a long while, Arminas adds:

"I do not have the history of a difficult childhood as you do. My youth was spent exploring the Culverwood, a more pleasant experience cannot be had. It was not until I joined up with you that I was stung by betrayal. It has been a difficult time as of late, and I fear I am slow to learn from the painful lessons. I am glad that Any has joined us, as he has brought you peace and is a good friend to me as well."

Arminas then moves Darkfire up ahead as they ride, an embarrassed look upon his face.

Back at the Inn, Arminas is pleased with the invitation to dine with Harvest and Any.

"Yes, I would be happy to join you. Though do not feel obligated to keep me as company. Sometimes I feel that I fare better alone. It is easier to talk to Ewan than to people."

DM Kathy
Monday October 9th, 2006 12:02:28 AM
Lorth makes conversation with the young ladies, but pursues matters no further. Florin, on the other hand, continues his flirtation with dark-haired Ivy.

Any, Harvest, and Arminas return from their excursion and share a meal, perhaps joined by the two paladins.

Fosco has retired early, and both Bralin and Davros seem intent on projects of their own. And Ivy, alas, does not grace the inn with her presence.

The next day, you all [I assume] make your way to the temple to attend Devrin's funeral. There is a huge turnout; everyone in town seems to have heard the story of the brave young boy who lost his life so far from home. It is a somber ceremony, with many tears shed. Little Dolo looks bewildered by the whole thing, and more than once you hear him ask why "Devwin" isn't coming home.

Toward the end of the service, those who knew Devrin are invited to speak if they choose. His father manages to choke out a few loving words before emotion overcomes him. His mother doesn't even make the attempt. A neighbor tells a bittersweet tale about how the would-be adventurer, then eight, rescued her cat.

After the service, the casket is taken off for burial. Some of the mourners accompany it; most do not.

[OOC to Justin: In my opinion, you should be able to use Hero Points however you want. In the grand scheme of things, though, I'm not sure that, say six more hit points are going to make a big difference one way or another. It's up to you, though. :) ]

Davros
Monday October 9th, 2006 3:57:15 PM
Davros shows up on time for the funeral. He is wearing a brand new Courtiers Outfit shaded a dark blue. He does not speak at the service and spends most of his time near the rest of the group.

OOC- I had intended to buy the outfit sooner at the catacombs but I was not up right away.Hope its ok.

Harvest
Monday October 9th, 2006 5:23:44 PM
Amidst the crowd of mourners, Harvest stands next to Anthos, a bundle of wildflowers clutched within her arms.

"Hello, Davros Sapphiredge," she whispers as the mage who they had met in Koshe Marr appears for Devrin's Funeral. "It is pleasant to see you again. Sad that it should be to mark the death of one so young. I see that Fosco Loamsdown has come as well."

Harvest Moon falls silent. She sighs deeply. Then her lips move silently in prayer.

When the funeral breaks, she hurries off with her armload of flowers in the direction in which they are taking the casket.

"Perhaps we should speak while we remain in Jarlwolf, Davros Sapphiredge," she says in parting. "It cannot bode well that we were both, your self and we, were transported to that dark land from this same area. It may be best to speak of our experiences and then warm the Pitchfork Council. And, perhaps, we might speak of magic as well."

She turns her head to the departing casket.

"But I must follow Devrin to the grave site. The beauty of these flowers may ease his soul as it travels on to Gargul's realm. I do not know whether that is so or not, but one can only hope."

Any d20=14
Monday October 9th, 2006 6:29:12 PM
When it comes time to allow each person to speak thoughts concerning Devrin, Any rises, amd moves to the front of the assembly.

"I know I am a stranger here, but if you will allow, I would like to sing my thoughts. I hope you will find them fitting, and forgive me if not."

He then reaches up and touches a patch on the arm of his Jerkin, and suddenly, a lute appears in his hands. He begins to play a sad lament, and after a moment, his voice rises to the melody in a rich baritone.

"The shaft was dark, the spirits dim when the hope of freedom shone,
But the fates did twist their erstwhile flight, and took them far from home.
The land to which they had been sent was grim and full of gloom,
But even then they did not know that this place would bring them doom.

The creatures of this fell place soon sought out child and man,
And took from them one bright light--she did not understand.
The fate that had befallen her brought death, and then a curse.
Gerdi was not free, she could not leave, her spirit bound to Earth.

The help that came, a friend in need, beyond all hope or thought,
Was help indeed to save their lives, while the enemy they fought.
Though help he gave, their lives to save, and took them to safe haven,
Yet his purpose dark, he hid from them, his attitude was craven.

Baelfred, his name he said, a peasant of little note,
But his name of dread he hid from them, and on them he did dote.
And so he led them far away, his schemes that they would face,
While he planned, a soul to take, and lead it to disgrace.

And so another innocent, his hunger led to fall,
And Devrin joined young Gerdi, though guilty not at all.
Now his true countenance appeared before their gaze,
They rose as one to strike the beast, and he ran sore amazed.

Devrin-- poor Devrin, slave to the evil master,
Was left, to detain the lot, while the beast avoided disaster.
They struck him down, his body rent, to save all the rest,
Then took him home to free his soul, and become Lord Gargul's guest.

We sing the song, this sad lament, to honor their young lives,
They shall not grow, or sing, or play, or take to them young wives.
An oath was made, there would come a day, and their lives then would change.
They would all return to Koshe Mar, and on it be revenged,

The time would come for beast and man, to face the oaths then made,
And time itself shall not prevent--this debt shall all be paid.
Koshe Mar, that blighted land, will not remain unmarked,
For the Gods all know the time will come for the vengeance it has sparked.

Our friends are lost, our lives seem less, that we are left to live,
And we remain, to regard the pain that Gargul's path does give.
Life goes on, the unbroken song, 'till he will call us home,
And we can but hope we face that last test with grace, that leads us to the tomb."

When he is finished, the lute disappeares from his hands, and he joins Harvest in the journey to the graveside. He is quiet, and does not speak again during the remainder of the service.

Perform +7 = 21

Any (2nd post)
Monday October 9th, 2006 6:31:30 PM
OOC--Sorry, forgot to add

Goblin Seal of the Lute used to make a Lute appear for 15 minutes

Bralin
Monday October 9th, 2006 8:58:06 PM
After 20 continuous hours of labor, Bralin considers his creation acceptable for its task. The dwarf grabs a few hours sleep, and then rises with his comrades.

Contrary to habit, he bathes. He washes face, combs out his beard, then rebraids and ties it into its customary twin forks. He leaves his armor in his room, wearing instead a plain black shirt, breeches, and boots.

At the funeral, he stands silent while Any sings his lament. Tis a good song, and the dwarf nods in approval. When the bard is done, Bralin steps up.

"I have no gift for words," he states plainly to the parents. "But, I have some gift with stone. I would have you keep this, in rememberance of Devrin."

With that, Bralin presents Devrin's father with a 4 inch square of light colored stone. Etched into it is a bas-relief of Devrin. The boy stands, left leg on a stone pedastal, with both arms on his knees as he leans forward. An unseen wind blows his hair right to left, and he has an expression of expecation, as if seeing a good friend for the first time in a long while. On the back is a lip of stone, a catch for a nail or hook. The small picture is thin enough to easily be mounted on a wall or fireplace.

Bralin looks sadly at Dolo, his mother, and his father.
"Devrin was good, and brave, and honorable," he tells them sadly. "I lament his loss."

Fosco
Monday October 9th, 2006 9:27:45 PM
Always hating funerals, especially the laying to rest of someone who's life was just suppose to be beginning, I fidget.

Upon completion of the ceremony I use the distraction of people moving between the church and the processional to slip back to the tavern.

I head to the room, locking the door behind myself. I then lay my weapons out on the bed, and my armor, and begin cleaning, oiling, cleaning and sharpening. I then position everything in its proper places.

After taking due care of the items, I go back down to the tavern. I order a round for those in the room, toasting the the souls of the departed and to the health of those still alive.

Posting Report
Monday October 9th, 2006 9:42:44 PM
game #9, Swords of Light
week of October 2, 2006

Name --- MTWTF
Kathy --- xxxxx

Any --- xxxxx
Arminas --- xxxxx
Bralin --- xxxxx
Davros --- xxxxx
Florin --- xxxxx
Fosco --- xxxxx
Harvest --- xxxxx
Lorth --- xxxxx

Florin Jadenth
Monday October 9th, 2006 9:59:38 PM
Florin makes his way after eating breakfast and not wanting to intrude on Harvest, Any and such he will eat by himself inless asked otherwise.

Florin makesh is way to the funeral and stays back while watching everything, he holds his helmet under his armor and wore full armor which is polished to it's best shine. This being the common way of a paladin to show up in full armor and as clean as possible to show respect. It might look weird to those not use to a paladin's ways or atleast his ways. He keeps his head bowed through most of the talking and will offer words of sorrow to the parents once more and will let it go as that as he knows it is a hard day for them and himself since it reminds him of things that had to be done and how the young keep dying so soon in their life.

With this done he will head back to the Inn and back to where he was sparring with Lorth before and leans against a wall or tree there sighing to himself.

Arminas
Monday October 9th, 2006 11:48:40 PM
Arminas stands quietly in the back during the funeral. He walks with Harvest to the graveside, and before the casket is lowered into the grave he gives a whistle.

Ewan drops from the sky. Arminas has a discussion with Ewan in her tongue, and after a while Ewan reaches back and pulls a feather from his wing.

Taking the feather, Arminas drops it into the grave on top of the casket.

"This will help Devrin's spirit soar to Gargul."

With that, he heads back to the Inn and joins Fosco for a drink.

DM Kathy
Tuesday October 10th, 2006 12:24:45 AM
Each in your own way, you commemorate Devrin's life. His parents seem to understand each gesture, and there is no doubt they appreciate what you've done. They weep when Any performs his lament, and shed a few more tears when Bralin presents his lifelike portrait. Devrin's mother touches the flowers gently with a sad smile, and his father acknowledges the feather with a little nod. Both express their appreciation to Davros and Florin for honoring the ceremony with their finery.

Dolo, too, sheds tears over the likeness of his brother, and sticks close to his parents, clutching his mother's hand.

After the ceremony, you drift back into some semblance of your normal "in town" lives, acutely aware that Gerdi's funeral is the day after tomorrow.

Lorth
Tuesday October 10th, 2006 9:00:37 AM
(OOC: Sorry I missed monday was away for the long weekend)

Lorth doesn't speak through the entire cerimony. He bows his head respectfully and stands a short distance behind all the other mourners.

Harvest
Tuesday October 10th, 2006 11:02:01 AM
The walk back from the grave site is solemn. After a time of quiet reflection in which Harvest Moon does no more than walk along with Anthos and Arminas Calaelen, she reaches out to take Anthos' arm. It is pleasant to walk in this way, warm and comforting. She lays her head against his arm.

"I should like to visit the refugee camp today, Anthos." Harvest listens to her own voice speaking from afar. This other Harvest Moon is a different creature. She has new clothes. And she has a handsome half-elfish bard who dotes upon her. She needs no longer scavenge the leftovers from other people's plates.

"There may be some things that they need," she continues. "And we should speak with the Pitchfork Council about Koshe Marr. It cannot be a good sign that both we and Davros Sapphiredge were taken into that land within a short period of days. A thing that takes people there would be very dangerous."

So many things to tend to now as well. So much that needs caring for.

"Walk the Wold, Harvest Moon. To wander where fate may lead and to help the helpless where you may find them. That is, in and of itself, a sacred act of worship."

And so had been Solonn's words to her as they had walked together outside Parnoth's stronghold within the Emerald Kingdom. Solonn the Walker, his words had been inspirational, and even now they remain so. And yet ... there is so much to care for here. How is one to reconcile the responsibilities of the present with the needs of the future?

Thought upon thought rushes through Harvest Moon's mind as they walk back to town. So many thoughts, clamoring against the stalwart shield of Anthos' comforting presence.

"What is it that you wish to do today?" she asks of him.

Any
Tuesday October 10th, 2006 12:21:26 PM
"Let us visit the refugee camp. We can help there as we can, but I feel that something permanent must be done to fully relieve that situation. I do not know what we can do--we have already failed once in an attempt to resolve the difficulty with Parnoth. Perhaps the Pitchfork council will have something further that they would like us to attempt to help out here.

As far as the rest of the day, I am awaiting parcels which I ordered from the Catacombs. When they arrive, I feel that I will need to work with some of them to allow their best usage in battle and other situations.

For now, let us visit, and then return to the Inn for a midday meal."

Any is content to go where Harvest would like to go. He is still contemplating things that have happened and how they will effect his future.

Arminas
Tuesday October 10th, 2006 1:09:47 PM
Sitting back at the Inn, Arminas has a drink with Fosco. Yet his mood is sullen. So much has happened, and here he sits wasting his time.

"Fosco, excuse me but I cannot sit here while the people in this town have suffered so much. I know it is not much, but I am going to offer my services to those who need it."

Taking out a parchment and a pen, he jots down a small notice:

Arminas gets up and walks outside. Looking around, he finds the public posting board. Pulling out the paper, he attaches it to the board.

Tracker and Ranger
Arminas Calaelen
offers free services:
Missing persons or livestock found.
Problem predator control.

He then finds a young boy and gives him a silver piece.

"Go and tell people about the notice."

DM Note: Arminas will go find any lost animals or track a lost person. Predator control will involve tracking the animal, and then speaking with it. He will cast entangle if necessary if the creature won't stay and listen. He gives it two options, leave the livestock alone or be killed. He will kill only as a last resort.

Bralin
Tuesday October 10th, 2006 6:02:22 PM
After the funeral, Bralin returns to the tavern and starts drinking. He's gotten a good head start by the time Fosco comes down and offers up a round.

The dwarf takes the halfling up on it.

Afterwards, he leans in conspiratorily.
"I shall inspect the Catacombs," he announces, " to ensure we may go back."

With that Bralin stands up and follows his intention. The warrior wants to know if he can return to Koshe Marr.

Davros
Tuesday October 10th, 2006 6:13:26 PM
Davros finds Harvest and Any (and any others?) at the inn for a midday meal. He is still wearing his nice new outfit and his rat, Whiskers appears to be very sad while laying on his shoulder.

"Harvest, thank you for your kind words. It was the least I could do to show up for the funeral. I would be glad to speak with you to the Pitchfork council. I was hoping to introduce myself to them and offer my services. It has been awhile since I offered my knowledge instead of my magic to aid those in need. I would also be glad to answer any questions on magic which I am able to."

"Any, I must say I am most impressed with your song today. I nearly wept to hear it. Some of the other apprentices I went to wizard college with had some poetry contests, even trying to weave spells with poetry. But I never had much apptitude with it. Your song reminded me of when I was younger, and I left the family farm behind to go to the wizard college. Devrin and Gerdi were about the ages some of my siblings were the last time I saw them."

Florin Jadenth
Tuesday October 10th, 2006 6:30:35 PM
Florin clothes his eyes while leaning against the tree in near the Inn and thinks to himself on things. His mind drifting finally to Domi and his training as a paladin of Domi. Only a few paladin's are known to be in the Float and now here he was in this area with a paladin of Gargul who was a interesting guy and someone Florin thinks is a good brother in arms. An then there is Bralin, his friend from the Float, a defender in alot of ways like him and someone he was close to, battle hardened together causing a good bond of friendship among their common views. He smiles as he thinks over these two and then the others, wondering how well he will get to know them.

Florin moves off with his thoughts, planning to talk to some of the other group members in hopes to get to know them better.

DM Kathy
Wednesday October 11th, 2006 12:53:24 AM
The rest of that day and the following day are uneventful. Townsfolk still want to hear of your adventures in Koshe-Marr, but respect your wishes if you don't want to talk about it.

Everyone who shopped at the Catacombs has their packages delivered with a smile and a thanks.

Ivy and the other young ladies always "happen" to be near the practice yard at the time of day Lorth and Florin are likely to be there.

Harvest visits the refugee camp and finds the conditions there unchanged, and the mood tense. There is a rumor going through the camp that the Pitchfork Council has made some sort of decision about the refugees, but nobody knows for sure what it is. Rumors spread like wildfire.

Arminas is approached by a timid hmana farmer, who says he's been having trouble with a fox. Arminas spends a day tracking the animal, then speaks with him. The fox says that he enjoys the tasty chickens and ducklings he's been able to catch, but mostly, he raids the farm for the challenge. He loves outwitting the farmer. Arminas tells him to stop or be killed, and the fox reluctantly agrees to stop. There is a sullen hunch to his shoulders and tail as he moves away.

Davros and Fosco are invited to meet with Dulcet, along with any of the companions who would like to accompany them. [Dulcet is your contact on the Pitchfork Council; she is an older human woman and an arcane caster. You can read up on her in the game's archives, if you like.]

Bralin re-enters the Catacombs, and cannot find the passage into Koshe-Marr. Those who work there shake their heads when asked about it. "Sometimes it's there and sometimes it isn't," they say. "Right now it isn't. We're not sure how it works."

The day of Gerdi's funeral dawns with blustery winds and a light rain, which tapers off by mid-morning.

Fosco
Wednesday October 11th, 2006 1:35:56 AM
At breakfast.
So, who is this Dulcet person and why are Davros and I asked to go speak to her?

<*> Once the story is told I turn to Davros.<*>

So Davros, looks like the new people are wanted for inspection. Shall we go there together?

Lorth
Wednesday October 11th, 2006 7:27:47 AM
Lorth continues to spar with Florin daily if the other paladin is willing.
He keeps an eye on Bralin making sure his friend doesn't try something rash like going off to Koshe-Mar by himself. Unlikely of Bralin to do anything rash, but one can not be to careful since Bralin is out of sorts.
When he has a chaance he calls Tobiasz and outfits him with his new gear. "I bought you some presents.", he tells his companion, "I hope you enjoy them."

Any
Wednesday October 11th, 2006 11:19:45 AM
Any gratefully accepts his packages from the catacombs. He removes a ring from among the packages, and places it on his right ring finger. Next, he removes a pair of gauntlets for his armor. These go on over his rings.

He brings out his bow and quiver from amongst his belongings as he unwraps a new quiver from amongst his packages. Then he quickly unwraps in succession a second bow, and a set of three javelins. All of this goes into his new quiver, including his arrows and walking staff.

Anyone watching will be amazed that everything seems to fit with ease, including the long walking stick, which is longer than the quiver itself.

Once all is in place he nods with satisfaction.

He moves out in to the courtyard where Florin and Lorth are practicing.

"May I join you for a little while? I need to get used to some of the items I received from the catcombs."

He begins to practice, both with Florin and Lorth, and on his own. His weapons leap into his hands almost of their own accord, as he draws them again and again, faster and faster in succession. Even his bow, comes easily to his hand, an arrow following it quickly from the quiver.

Next, he removes his gauntlets, tucking them into his belt, and choosing a likely branch for a target, slices at it with his sword. The branch was quite thick, and the sword does not quite go all the way through. Putting his foot on the branch, he pulls the sword free. Donning his gauntlets, he strikes again higher up the branch. This time, the sword passes completely through the branch, and again, Any gives a grim smile and a nod.

After a while, he steps back wiping the sweat from his forehead, and thanks the two Paladins for their help. He returns to the Inn, where he asks for a hot bath to be drawn, and goes to his room to soak away the effects of the workout.

Rising from the bath, he dresses, and goes to Gerdi's funeral with Harvest and the others. Here he repeats the song sung for Devrin, and then again remains silent for the rest of the ceremony, honoring her passing in his own way.

Summon Instrument-- to produce the Lute used in this performance.

Any (2nd post)
Wednesday October 11th, 2006 11:30:35 AM
OOC--Sorry, even with my long post, I didn't do everything :o))

Any tells Davros that he would like to accompany him to see Dulcet, and turns to Harvest to see if she too would like to go. They had been planning on something of this nature anyway.

Harvest
Wednesday October 11th, 2006 4:05:36 PM

Harvest Moon holds out a finger for the pet rat of Davros Sapphiredge to inspect through the scent of its whiskered nose.

"Your rat is cute." Harvest smiles. "And you need not fear Ewan Arminas Calaelen's friend." She points at the ranger's broad-winged bird. "She seems very smart. And I think she knows when one rat is friend and another food."

With these words she and Anthos had departed for the Refugee Camp. The news had been vexing. What decision would the Pitchfork Council have made that would disturb the elves so? Best would be to go to the source. From there, she could confirm or deny any rumors. The elves would trust her word and that would be the end of it.

Along with the arrival of the new day, come packages. Harvest Moon stands quietly next to Anthos as he opens his purchases and tests out each piece. Dressed in the dark skirt with flower embroidered band, she accompanies the bard to practice with his new weapons. With the shapeless velvet hat perched upon her head, she stands apart from the other girls and watches as Anthos with Paladins Florin and Lorth train with weapons.

While Anthos bathes, Harvest collects more flowers, this time for Gerdi. She had been a strong willed girl, and would, perhaps, have grown into a strong young woman one day. If she had lived. Again there is the pain of loss. And again, Harvest Moon wonders at the cruelty of necessity. If necessity is cruel, she ponders, then, perhaps it is also true that cruelty is necessary. For without the example of cruelty would one know kindness? It is a thought that brings a dark crease to the skin between her brows.

Later, as Harvest waits to leave for a meeting with Madam Dulcet she pets the rat of Davros Sapphiredge upon the head, stroking its fur with the tip of one finger.

Arminas
Wednesday October 11th, 2006 4:56:51 PM
Arminas does his job for the farmer, and though it makes him sad to tell the fox not to do what foxes love doing, he knows what would happen if someone else caught the fox. The fox would be killed, no conversation would take place.

Arminas turns to Ewan, and talks to her with her animal speech.

"It is sad that creatures do not feel content with natural prey. I hope the fox feels the thrill of the hunt, and forgets the farmers animals."

Arminas makes it back to town to receive his package from the catacombs. Opening, he takes out his bow that he left breifly for magical enhancement. Placing an arrow in the bow, Arminas reads a command word off the slip of parchment, the arrow starts to glow with magical fire. Repeating the word, the magical fire goes out. A smile plays upon Arminas' mouth. Arminas then takes out some small crystal lenses, and places them over his eyes. He looks about in wonderment.

"So Ewan, this is how the world looks to you. No wonder you are such a good hunter."

Arminas then takes out a large lens mounted in a frame, looking through it he can spot details that were difficult to see before. Arminas then counts out the scrolls, and places them in his pack. The silver arrows go into his quiver.

When all is done, he will follow those who go to speak with Dulcet. If they are already gone, he will follow after them.

Florin Jadenth
Wednesday October 11th, 2006 8:48:35 PM
Florin continues his daily workout with Lorth and is glad when Any shows up to train also and he nods to Harvest.

Florin goes through some sword routines with Any also and offers him the use of the greatsword also, speaking to him as he offers, "Is good for strength training to if your interested."

Thinking Florin walks over to Harvest and speaks to her for a moment, "Excuse me Harvest. I'm not good with my fists like you are but would you be willing to show me some pointers? No harm in knowing some self defense for when a person is weaponless I would think."

After training he walks over to Ivy and looks to her, "Hello again. Is nice to see you here once more. I still hope you might take me up on that offer of a meal and some talk. I wouldn't mind getting to know you, what you do in this place for instance? Were you born here? you seem abit different then the other girls. No offense meant by that." Florin keeps his comments nice as he is just curious of her and trying to get to know Ivy better.

Florin goes to Gerdi's funeral like he did the previous one and he at the end speaks to Gerdi's parents, speaking to them gently, "You had a wonderful daughter and I'm sorry for your loss. I got to know her on our way back here and she cared for you both alot."

Davros
Wednesday October 11th, 2006 10:54:34 PM
Davros rolls his eyes as as Whiskers soaks up all the attention from Harvest he can get. He just loves to feel important.

"Fosco, after I have packed up my new purchases, I would like to go and see Dulcet with you and whoever else may be going. I hear she understands the ways of magic and I am anxious to meet her. Do you think we should go before or after the funeral?"

DM Kathy
Thursday October 12th, 2006 12:41:44 AM
Davros and Fosco's meeting with Dulcet is a brief one--just an introduction, really. She promises a longer visit after the funeral, but says that just now, she is much occupied with Council business. Harvest accompanies them, concerned about the refugees; Arminas, too, comes along. Dulcet confirms that the Council has made a decision about the refugees.

"And I think you'll like it," she adds with a little smile, "although unfortunately I'm not at liberty to discuss the particulars yet. Soon. Actually, I'm hoping you'll agree to be a part of it."

Any chooses to practice with Lorth and Florin. The gaggle of feminine spectators appreciates this new addition, until it becomes clear that the handsome bard is already "taken." They shift their attentions back to the paladins.

Ivy gladly continues conversing with Florin, although she demurely declines to meet him for a meal. She tells him that she grew up in Jarlwolf, and that her father is a priest at the Temple. Her mother was a player in a traveling troupe, but stopped traveling shortly after getting married. Ivy has an older sister and several younger siblings.

Gerdi's funeral is, if anything, more difficult than Devrin's. Her pretty young mother is absolutely devastated; her father is barely responsive. The couple had no other children, and are plainly lost without their lively, opinionated daughter. Many tears are shed, but there is little of the bittersweet love or tentative hope that characterized Devrin's family and his service. This family is going to have a very hard time of it.

Lorth
Thursday October 12th, 2006 7:43:07 AM
Lorth attends Gerdi's funeral, to him it is just as hard as Devrin's.
Thinking of Harvest's work with the refugees, Lorth decides that sometime in the future, when the pain for Gerdi's parents has subsided, he will suggest they adopt one of the refugee orphans, perhaps that will fill a place in their hearts.
After the funeral Lorth is even more determined to return to Koshe-Mar ro deal with Baelfred.

Any
Thursday October 12th, 2006 10:19:41 AM
Following Gerdi's funeral, Any slips his arm around Harvest, and walks back to the Inn.

"It is always thus, the innocent suffer when the wicked seek to increase their power or influence. We can try our best to offset things of evil, but there is only so much any person or group can do. It was this that convinced me to join with this group--with you. I saw how you were trying to fight for the innocent who do not have the ability to fight for themselves.

I grew up with a traveling Troupe of Entertainers. Because I was a half breed, I did not have many friends early in life. The Troupe accepted me, and my mother, but I was never truly one of them. I fought with them, ate with them, worked with them. I appreciate what they taught me, but when my mother died, I knew it was time to move on.

Shortly after I left them, I met my master, Westar, whose name I have added to my own to honor him. He is the first who truly showed me my own worth, and who taught me the ways of the Bard. We traveled together for several years, until he too passed on. He helped me make my first Lute--the one that was broken--and taught me to recognize the words of power that are used to control the chaos of magic. Even now there are many of those that I dare not use, for I have not the strength to control them. Some day, perhaps I will.

For now, I am simply glad to be here, with you and the others, and to feel your acceptance of me for what I am. I hope I never give you cause to regret my joining you."

He gives Harvest a squeeze, as they enter the Inn, sits at a table and orders a meal for the dinner repast.

Arminas
Thursday October 12th, 2006 11:17:55 AM
Again at the funeral, Arminas calls Ewan down and offers a feather for the child.

Walking back to the Inn, Arminas finds his companions and says:

"It is a sad occasion, and a shame that we could not protect the children better. Perhaps Dulcet can investigate why people are drawn into Koshe Marr against thier will. That needs to be fixed quickly. Yet I am concerned, I hear many speak of revenge against Baelfred. What good comes of going back to that dismal land to fight against creatures there? There is evil aplenty in our own land that we need to fight against. Parnoth is still a threat."

Fosco
Thursday October 12th, 2006 1:44:13 PM
Stays in the shadows figuratively during the funeral and first out the door once it is concluded. Never really liking them. Instead of going with the others to the graveyard to pay their last respects, being I didn't know the child at all, and again, its something I wouldn't like to do, I head to Gerdi's parents' home. I take an empty pouch. I place a Moonstone in it. (100gp value) And I scribble a note.
DM Highlight to display spoiler: {
Gerdi would want you to go on with your life knowing she is not hurting and in a better place. She loves you both and has a wish for the both of you. To find a child or two that has noone to take care of them and love them and take care of them like you would her for she knows how great parents you both are.
This gem is to help you should you choose to take up the request of your daughter.

A friend.
}

Harvest
Thursday October 12th, 2006 3:41:28 PM
"I will have to bring them food," Harvest Moon says as she watches Gerdi's parents from afar. "Preparing food will be one less thing that they will have to do."

Fit comfortably into the countours of his side, Harvest later walks along with Anthos, listening to his story. She looks up into his face as they walk. With a hard look, she scrutinizes his features.

"Yes," she says after a moment, and then nods as though confirming her own conclusion, "you are a half breed. I had not noticed."

Then she breaks out into a smile, her eyes laughing at the jest. She wraps her arms around him and pulls him to her causing them both to bump roughly along as they walk.

Balanced precariously on her toes she lifts up to kiss his cheek, but it is a moving target, and Harvest Moon drops back off of her toes and giggles, a sound that she immediately finds odd coming from herself.

For a time, she she does no more than walk along with him.

"Still," she says at last, "I think Arminas Calaelen is correct. There is no need to return to Koshe Marr. I do not wish to. There is much to do here already."

"I wonder what it is that the Madam Dulcet and the Pitchfork Council has decided?" Deep curiosity is evident in Harvest Moon's voice.

Davros
Thursday October 12th, 2006 7:36:16 PM
Davros attends the funeral still dressed in his finery to show respect for the family. He has no words to say to the family as he finds himself choked up with memories of his younger sister. She was of similiar age and temperament to Gerdi when he saw her last. Finally he composes himself and takes to leave, going to the inn to join the others for the evening meal. During the meal he attempts some light conversation.

"Arminas, you mentioned a name earlier. Who is Parnoth? And how did these refugees come to be here?"

"Harvest, I believe this is yours." He hands a wand to her. "I believe you wanted to discuss magic?"

"Koshe-Marr leaves me with bitter feelings. In a sense I feel that we failed. The funerals alone are proof of that. But what can we do? Revenge is a path of darkness and evil must be fought with the light. With no clear way to even get there, perhaps the most we can hope for is to seal the magic pathways between here and there. I still feel helpless that we will not be able to help all of the many oppressed peoples of that land."

"Does it occur to anyone else that since Baelfred is a vampire, he could have gotten the potion from the Still on his own and snuck through the Inn to this world?"

Bralin
Thursday October 12th, 2006 8:22:51 PM
The dwarf returns from the Catacombs in plenty of time to attend Gerdi's funeral. Unlike Devrin's service, Bralin says nothing and stands in the background. He simply didn't know the girl well enough to feel any kind of connection. Nor does he feel responsible for her death, as he does Devrin's.

Afterwards, he joins the others in the tavern.
"The door to Koshe-Marr has disappeared," he reports sourly. "We cannot get back."

Bralin is far too annoyed by his discovery to dwell on Davros' question. He gets several ales, and sits in a corner to brood and drink. His comrades are welcome to determine their next course.

Florin Jadenth
Thursday October 12th, 2006 8:41:14 PM
Florin smiles to Ivy after his practice and talks with her and speaks gently, "Well Lady Ivy that we get to have one meal before I must go off with my friends to deal with more evil in the Wold. However with or without that your presence is good enough and your smile and laugh is refreshing."

Florin goes to the Inn and when he sees Bralin and hears the news Florin gets a glass of wine and moves to join his friend. Sitting down across from him he smiles gently and speaks to his friend, "Bralin, I know most of all of us wanted to go back and finished what we started but maybe this is for the best for now. Domi or one of the gods ways of saying we are not ready. Our chance will come again, I believe that and when it does I will stand beside you and the others in that fight." Florin holds his glass out in a toast like gesture, "My promise, from one friend and fellow warrior to another."

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