Chapter 2: Exhumation

ariel · October 12, 2023

Dalin Ghillison

AC: 16 | HP: 59/59 | Rages: 2/3 | Passive Perception: 12

Dalin's lop-sided grin slid into view and she winked at Cordelia. "And here I thought I was going to hide behind her..." She looked over the blades with a quick glance to see that any were a good slice better than her walking stick. Without too much thought, she picked the axeNot completely sure if both axes can be used single-handed? If so, she'll take the double-bladed one, if not, she'll take whichever can be used single-handed... that would handle better with her shield.

She hefted the weight and stifiled a sigh. It had been almost a year since she'd trusted herself with a blade. It felt surprising normal.

"Thanks. if things do go sideways... at least I won't be holding a toothpick." She affixed the blade on her back, looped into her pack for somewhat easy access. "As long as I'm still walking, I'll get it back to you before leaving town."

The smile slid off her face as she admitted, at least to herself, that the stakes were high enough that she didn't know if she could handle them. Walk it off. She gestured to the group and to path leading out of the estate. "Shall we be going?"

Peacemonger · October 13, 2023

Jozelle - Human (Rogue/Monk)

AC: 16 | HP: 33/33 | Initiative: +8 | Passive Perception: 13

Jozelle listens, enjoying the exchange and trying to pick up a few tips for what may be a most troublesome fight. She cannot decide if the man might know her nature when he mentions poison or if it's just her own mind.

One is more troublesome than the other.

"By the by... is there any other trouble for us to be aware of? Ghouls and a runaway seducer are quite the challenge. I find sometimes the world likes to bring a flood, and if there are yet more worries... you would share them, wouldn't you?"

There's a bit of humor in her voice, and yet her eyes have a glint to them, intent on knowing if the situation is even more complicated. She's not keen to stumble upon a herd of owlbears, or be stabbed in the back by a thug belonging to some criminal underbelly, all because her vision is blurred by the threats she knows of.

Mechanics

Main Hand: - (Rapier at hip)
Off Hand: -

Action: -
Bonus Action: -
Move: -
Manipulate: -

HD: 4/4d8

Edited October 14, 2023 by Peacemonger (see edit history)

Whitleyrr · October 13, 2023

Donati smiled at Jozelle, “No, we’re a peaceful lot round here.” He wheezed out a raspy laugh, hard years in the field can take a toll on the lungs. “Evidence to the contrary being ignored and all.” A moment passed and a serious look crossed his face. “What do you folks intend to do? I can tell there’s more to you than meet’s the eye. Knew it from before Hearthshome. But people’s business is their own, so I kept quiet. Kept my eye on ya, but kept quiet. But now I find myself curious, what are you gonna do?”

PureChance · October 16, 2023

Alban Lord Stuart - Human Shadow Sorcerer

AC: 14 | HP: 32/32 | Initiative: +4 | Passive Perception: 11 (Darkvision 120ft) | HD: 3/3 | Inspiration 0/1

Alban escorted Cordelia from the Lady's room appropriately when she joined him by the door, happy to follow the lead of their more martial companions in questioning the guards on the ghouls. His own interactions tended to be more of the instructing kind. As for the guards waring on trust - well Alban was always careful who he trusted. Trust was a currency that rarely held value in his mind - certainly not compared to the price of information or power, and only naive fools trusted blindly. Not to say there was nothing to gain from working together, but that was almost always a fairly contractual agreement he found, even if both parties didn't acknowledge it. Still, Vadim had demonstrated an endless ability to recruit. He nudged Cordelia beside him discreetly, reasonably sure she would have picked up on this prospect of subversion as well.

Dalin drew his focus back to the room, and away from the conversation, once again. Squinting slightly as she hefted the axe he felt a sympathetic thrill deep within, nodding imperceptibly. "Better than a toothpick indeed..." he murmured, unwilling to draw too much attention to his suspicions in case the guardsman's offer was made in ignorance, and enlightenment led to it's withdrawal.

To draw the attention on he stepped forward, disentangling himself from Cordelia for a moment. "Enticing us to share just after warning us of traitors in the midst? A bold move Captain!" he chuckled melodiously. "I jest, of course. Your loyalty is clearly without question. Besides whilst I can imagine the enchantments of Vadim entrapping allies, I can hardly imagine anyone supporting ghouls. Though it is good to know his tricks won't work on them either."

"Whilst you mention the creatures immune to charm I presume they rely on their senses the same as any beast or man. I had intended to utilise this," he waved his hand - and Donato's gaze - back to Dalin before the wagoneer could sneak away, "humble woman's most excellent bushcraft to create an ambush, one raised further my my own art, and wait within as spiders to see whom we might trap. Perhaps though, given the hours nocturnal predilections, dusk would be the best time to do so, and catch them as they are emerging. The darkness to me is an old friend, but my companions may not share my love."

OOC

Stat Block

Imperial (variant) Human Sorcerer 4

Languages Common, Elven

Background Noble Background Feature Position of Privilege

StrSave +0
Athletics +0 11 Dex 18 ConSave +5*
No skills associated. 16 Int 12 Wis 12 Cha 20

Proficiency Bonus +2 Saving Throws Con, Cha

Speed 30

Tools Calligrapher's Tools

Spell Attack Bonus +7 | Spell Save DC 15 | Spell Slots L1 4/4 ; L2 3/3

Sorcery Points 4/4

Actions

Dagger +6 to hit for [1d4+4] piercing damage | Light, Finesse, Thrown 20/60
Light Crossbow +6 to hit for [1d8+4] piercing damage | Loading, Two-handed, 80/320
Mind Sliver DC15 INT Sv for [1d6] psychic damage | V, one creature, 60ft | -1d4 next saving throw
Frostbite DC15 CON Sv for [1d6] cold damage | VS, one creature, 60ft | disadvantage next weapon attack roll
Chill Touch +7 to hit for [1d8] necrotic damage | VS, one creature, 120ft | can't regain hitpoints until the start of your next turn, if undead disadvantage on attacks targeting you

Bonus Actions

Reactions

Shield [Hit by an attack / targeted by Magic Missile]

ariel · October 16, 2023

Dalin Ghillison

AC: 16 | HP: 59/59 | Rages: 2/3 | Passive Perception: 12

Dalin was waiting, if reluctantly, for the group to finish talking with the Captain before moving off. Her chin dipped with a confused, if bemused, expression when Alban talked about using her, "using this", to create some kind of ambush.

Unless we're talking rabbits... I don't know how he thinks I can help. The dwarf stayed silent for the moment though. She wasn't sure she trusted Alban, but she knew she couldn't handle whatever was going to happen on her own.

Also, it wouldn't help to show disagreement in front of the Captain. For better or worse, they were a team... perhaps not all with the same purpose, but at least on the same side, for the moment.

Karma Kameleon · October 17, 2023

Cordelia Nightshade

Cordelia maintained her composure, even as Donati couldn't resist teasing her about her question. She didn't particularly enjoy being laughed at but still managed a polite smile, realizing that her inquiry may have seemed excessive. "Thank you for clarifying, and I appreciate the jest. I suppose simplicity is often the most effective path. We'll keep your advice in mind."

She watched as Dalin chose her weapon, the lighthearted wink and banter between them lightening the mood momentarily. It appeared they had switched roles, as she was now the one feeling somewhat uncomfortable in the present situation. But she was pleased to see that the dwarf had settled back into her more natural, relaxed state.

Cordelia observed Donati's changing expressions as he spoke, acknowledging his curiosity. She felt a sense of unease, uncertain about how much to reveal about their mission. After a moment's contemplation, she decided to be discreet. She answered with a cautious smile, her tone measured. "Our main goal is to help restore stability and safety to Hethton. We've heard about the disturbances with the ghouls and observed the aftermath of the recent jailbreak. We intend to address these issues, as we believe it's our responsibility to assist in any way we can."

"Lady Ittia told us you were Captain Uriah's right-hand man, correct? I was wondering what your thoughts were on the Captain's final words. He accused Vadim of sorcery. Is this something he spoke openly with you about? Perhaps you could elaborate? As you said, Vadim likely had help with his escape. However, we feel that perhaps his helpers were forced against their will to do so, just as Lady Ittia was forced into being his... play thing." she spat out the final words, making her disdain of Vadim very clear.

PureChance · October 19, 2023

Alban Lord Stuart - Human Shadow Sorcerer

AC: 14 | HP: 32/32 | Initiative: +4 | Passive Perception: 11 (Darkvision 120ft) | HD: 3/3 | Inspiration 0/1

"Well that has been most helpful Donati," Alban announced once the guard had answered Cordelia's questions about Vadim's story, almost thanking him. "Should Vadim appear however, I suspect what he seeks will not be found above ground, so I'll offer you the same advice I did Lady Ittia - rather let him learn that than spend blood concealing it." On that final advice Alban dismissed the man - or rather themselves - turning towards the door imperiously and leading Cordelia out alongside. Given Dalin's clear desire to get the sky over her head, and Jozelle's tendencies to wander without direction he was confident the rest of the group would follow his lead.

They wound back through the manicured estate towards the wrought iron gates. For all her grief and distress, the Captain's servants had not let standards slip he idly noted. As they passed to the village proper the gates creaked closed behind them, taking a sentinel apiece. The air was crisp as Alban's words as he sought Dalin's opinion on her part. "I had imagined a simple screen over one corner of the graveyard - preferably where we would be able to both see most of it and reach the Captain quickly. As I mentioned to Donati I would augment it with illusion, however by its very nature the spell lacks permanence and would last an hour or two at most. I could of course refresh it, but my well of power is not limitless. Besides, as I'm sure Jozelle would attest, blending truth and lie makes both harder to discern. From there we may watch who is drawn to the graveyard 'til dusk falls, at which point we may reassess our position."

They reach the crossroads in good time, though the village is still subdued enough that few are around to overhear their conversation many a curtain twitches. Alban inquires in low tone, "If no-one else has goods to collect before, I will suggest it is the early bird that catches the spider..."

OOC

Stat Block

Imperial (variant) Human Sorcerer 4

Languages Common, Elven

Background Noble Background Feature Position of Privilege

StrSave +0
Athletics +0 11 Dex 18 ConSave +5*
No skills associated. 16 Int 12 Wis 12 Cha 20

Proficiency Bonus +2 Saving Throws Con, Cha

Speed 30

Tools Calligrapher's Tools

Spell Attack Bonus +7 | Spell Save DC 15 | Spell Slots L1 4/4 ; L2 3/3

Sorcery Points 4/4

Actions

Dagger +6 to hit for [1d4+4] piercing damage | Light, Finesse, Thrown 20/60
Light Crossbow +6 to hit for [1d8+4] piercing damage | Loading, Two-handed, 80/320
Mind Sliver DC15 INT Sv for [1d6] psychic damage | V, one creature, 60ft | -1d4 next saving throw
Frostbite DC15 CON Sv for [1d6] cold damage | VS, one creature, 60ft | disadvantage next weapon attack roll
Chill Touch +7 to hit for [1d8] necrotic damage | VS, one creature, 120ft | can't regain hitpoints until the start of your next turn, if undead disadvantage on attacks targeting you

Bonus Actions

Reactions

Shield [Hit by an attack / targeted by Magic Missile]

Whitleyrr · October 19, 2023

Donati had nothing further useful to offer Cordelia, though he clearly wished he had. The mystery was an impenetrable to him as it was to them and it visibly caused him grief. He reaffirmed his status as a man of action and not one given to many ponderings, but, in the end, surmised that if there were more things on this earth than he had dreamt of, then he wished not to meet them.

As they walked, Alban explained his plan. By the time he was finished, they were almost to the graveyard. The first thing they noticed were all the new graves; the fresh corpses made by the past night's tragedies found final rest beneath the dirt, now mounded over them. The Captain's grave stood off a way, solitary and marked with a carved stone. The rest of the yard looked as one might expect: slightly overgrown with grass now browning in the cooler air, a blanket of fallen auburn and flax leaves. The rise and fall of the undulating hills passing into the distance seemed to them as flesh and these graves as wounds.

There were one or two mourners come to beat their chests and stifle sobs, but no others. It was mostly quiet and no one gave them a second look. The pall of death had fallen over Hethton and there were few who wished to pierce it. Alban identified an area that met his requirements and suggested they make their arrangements there, back by the woods line, beneath trees embarrassed to bare their branches.

ariel · October 19, 2023

Dalin Ghillison

AC: 16 | HP: 59/59 | Rages: 2/3 | Passive Perception: 12

Dalin was silent on the walk to the graveyard. She glanced around several times as if looking for something, anything. Upon passing through the gates, she pulled Bonnie from her pocket. She let the mouse sit on her open hand, nestled in her palm. She watched the mouse sniff at the air.

"So, I couldn't say before... but the dove I was chatting with, the one that came to the mansion, she tol' me that the graveyard was clean, that... the devil smell was gone... it had taken flight... beyond, something like that."

"So, to me, it seems like we got two choices... one is to sit here and wait, as you say and see if the "devil" or its friends comes back and tries to get at the Captain's grave. Other choice, we take a walk in the woods... try go to find King in the place or direction where he took the Lady. Either way, I'd rather meet the fella in the light... even if I can see in the dark.

It might partly depend on what we're trying to do here... are we trying to stop King or are trying to get the amulet? I got no trouble saying that I care more about the "devil" than some piece of jewellery."

Peacemonger · October 20, 2023

Jozelle - Human (Rogue/Monk)

AC: 16 | HP: 33/33 | Initiative: +8 | Passive Perception: 13

"I have found wandering very rewarding. One tends to find curiosity and trouble if they walk long enough." It seems as if Jozelle is relaxing into her usual self... which is to say the more abnormal persona. "I had thought to walk the streets once more, listen to how this town has changed, see what looks back at me and follows."

She breathes out lightly through her nose. "But I realize that we may be served staying together. It is... I do not know the words, but it feels right."

She then turns fully to Dalin, wide eyes boring into the Dwarf. "I am still waiting for this taste of redemption promised, whether gem or man, whether justice against the living, or confronting the dead."

Mechanics

Main Hand: - (Rapier at hip)
Off Hand: -

Action: -
Bonus Action: -
Move: -
Manipulate: -

HD: 4/4d8

PureChance · October 20, 2023

Alban Lord Stuart - Human Shadow Sorcerer

AC: 14 | HP: 32/32 | Initiative: +4 | Passive Perception: 11 (Darkvision 120ft) | HD: 3/3 | Inspiration 0/1

"Oh what a tangled web our spider weaves..." Alban mused in response to Dalin's question. Tapping a slender ivory finger to his chin he asked "Do you or your dove know to whom the devil smell belongs? I saw something dark within Vadim that night, but beyond that we have no evidence of demonic nature - humanity is carries enough seeds of evil within to act as he without outside interference. The ghouls presumably smell of death... Could there be a third party drawn into this dark nexus despite Donati's denial?"

His gaze roamed over the fresh graves, lingering on the Captain's - as yet undisturbed.

"I agree that at present three tasks stand before us." He enumerated them as he spoke, "Retrieve the amulet, achieve justice over Vadim King, manage the ghouls. The third I suppose is not strictly our problem. I can't help but feel all woes centre on this artefact - the mage did warn that many would seek it's power, and from Lady Ittia's words it's clear this is what Vadim was after. I can't believe he would leave town without his goal now that he has glimpsed it at last, and I worry that meeting him in the woods would be walking into his trap. At least the threat here should trouble him as much as us, immune as the ghouls would be to his charm, and with such bounty spread before them I can't believe they would stay away."

OOC

Stat Block

Imperial (variant) Human Sorcerer 4

Languages Common, Elven

Background Noble Background Feature Position of Privilege

StrSave +0
Athletics +0 11 Dex 18 ConSave +5*
No skills associated. 16 Int 12 Wis 12 Cha 20

Proficiency Bonus +2 Saving Throws Con, Cha

Speed 30

Tools Calligrapher's Tools

Spell Attack Bonus +7 | Spell Save DC 15 | Spell Slots L1 4/4 ; L2 3/3

Sorcery Points 4/4

Actions

Dagger +6 to hit for [1d4+4] piercing damage | Light, Finesse, Thrown 20/60
Light Crossbow +6 to hit for [1d8+4] piercing damage | Loading, Two-handed, 80/320
Mind Sliver DC15 INT Sv for [1d6] psychic damage | V, one creature, 60ft | -1d4 next saving throw
Frostbite DC15 CON Sv for [1d6] cold damage | VS, one creature, 60ft | disadvantage next weapon attack roll
Chill Touch +7 to hit for [1d8] necrotic damage | VS, one creature, 120ft | can't regain hitpoints until the start of your next turn, if undead disadvantage on attacks targeting you

Bonus Actions

Reactions

Shield [Hit by an attack / targeted by Magic Missile]

ariel · October 23, 2023

Dalin Ghillison

AC: 16 | HP: 59/59 | Rages: 2/3 | Passive Perception: 12

Dalin tucked Bonnie away and started rocking back and forth on her heels. It almost seemed like the motion was helping her work out her thoughts. "I agree... if we're going to face King, it's gotta be a surprise. For me, if we could be sure of finding him, I think getting him where he's holed up in the day time would be a good idea, he wouldn't be expecting that..."

"But, there's no way to know if he's in woods... wherever it was he was taking the Lady. We could get there and back, before it got dark, but I guess he could just as easily be in town... didn't you say you saw him in a building somewhere? Where was that anyway?"

Somewhat resigned to the idea, she continued. "We can hole up here, in the graveyard... probably should keep an eye on it anyway. But, it could be long, we might need shifts. And, maybe we need a plan of what we do if we see him... or anybody, messing with that grave.

Being honest now, I don't know if he's got some kind of worm into my own apple. What happens if I can't... like... control my own self?"

PureChance · October 26, 2023

Alban Lord Stuart - Human Shadow Sorcerer

AC: 14 | HP: 32/32 | Initiative: +4 | Passive Perception: 11 (Darkvision 120ft) | HD: 3/3 | Inspiration 0/1

Alban listened carefully to the dwarfs concerns. After all, he would be relying on her to be between him and any blade claw or tooth. Brittle leaves crushed under his feet as he shifted slightly, rubbing a sleeve as he pondered her question "I think I could probably find that building again from the inn, though I don't recall it being more memorable than any of the other hovels round here that pass for homes." He grimaced at the memory, adding with rare vulnerability "I was unfortunately not in the best state of mind at the time. I didn't think to pay particular attention to the surroundings rather than his companions, and the man himself. I've no idea if it was a regular haunt, or simply his latest victims residence."

He nodded at the remainder of her concerns - sensible ones. If he could avoid staying up all night himself that would be preferable. "If anything is seen, we should face it together whatever it is. That in part and alongside our earlier ritual, should I hope mitigate Vadim's effects. Otherwise I have no real solution. We've never seen him incite anyone to violence, save the Captain where circumstances were somewhat different, so perhaps he can only cause infatuation," Alban mused, "in which case whomsoever is caught need merely distract him long enough that the remainder of us can solve the issue. A lustful embrace may be as good as a violent one." He offered a wan smile.

He nudged the soft, damp earth with the tip of his worn leather boot. "If we are to try and sleep here, perhaps one of us should collect a bedroll and some provisions before Dalin sets our cover."

OOC

Stat Block

Imperial (variant) Human Sorcerer 4

Languages Common, Elven

Background Noble Background Feature Position of Privilege

StrSave +0
Athletics +0 11 Dex 18 ConSave +5*
No skills associated. 16 Int 12 Wis 12 Cha 20

Proficiency Bonus +2 Saving Throws Con, Cha

Speed 30

Tools Calligrapher's Tools

Spell Attack Bonus +7 | Spell Save DC 15 | Spell Slots L1 4/4 ; L2 3/3

Sorcery Points 4/4

Actions

Dagger +6 to hit for [1d4+4] piercing damage | Light, Finesse, Thrown 20/60
Light Crossbow +6 to hit for [1d8+4] piercing damage | Loading, Two-handed, 80/320
Mind Sliver DC15 INT Sv for [1d6] psychic damage | V, one creature, 60ft | -1d4 next saving throw
Frostbite DC15 CON Sv for [1d6] cold damage | VS, one creature, 60ft | disadvantage next weapon attack roll
Chill Touch +7 to hit for [1d8] necrotic damage | VS, one creature, 120ft | can't regain hitpoints until the start of your next turn, if undead disadvantage on attacks targeting you

Bonus Actions

Reactions

Shield [Hit by an attack / targeted by Magic Missile]

Whitleyrr · October 26, 2023

Dalin set to work laying the cover and the blind. She chose a location carefully so that they could keep particular watch over the Captain's grave, but still see most of the surrounding area. Jozelle and Cordelia helped collect materials, while Lord Alban "prepared his magic." Privately, Dalin wondered if he was just allergic to work. When the cover was finished, Dalin wiped her hands and said she was going to take a stroll before the sun set. It already hung low in the sky, so Cordelia reminded her to be quick. Jozelle flitted about, uncomfortable in the setting.

As Dalin strolled through the nearby forest she spoke to whatever animals would speak with her. The birds of the sky brought her tidings from near and far, but nothing out of the ordinary and certainly no sign of Vadim. The creatures who walked and crept upon the earth, however, we particularly disturbed. She kept hearing the same thing from them, "...scratching, scratching underground. Clawing dirt and stone resound. A tale they tell, woe betide: within our befouléd earth, the peace of death now be dearth. The hole! The hole! All decried!"

Disturbed, she hurried back to the group as the last sight of the sun disappeared behind the hills. A few mournful birds took up their dirge, while the crickets began, slowly, to join the song. Shadows lengthened on the ground and even the trees took on a threatening aspect. As it grew steadily darker, the companions huddled closer to confer in the steadily chilling air.

ariel · October 26, 2023

Dalin Ghillison

AC: 16 | HP: 59/59 | Rages: 2/3 | Passive Perception: 12

Returning to the group, Dalin's leather boots abused the earth with her thick steps. She was still chuffing to Bonnie, in the curious beastial tone the others had heard before.

She popped the mouse back into a pocket and looked up at the faces around her. "I think there's a hole." She waited a beat, as if expecting the others to understand her meaning. Of course, they did not.

"I dunno what kind of hole... might be a hole that ghouls are nesting in... but... seems like... more like maybe someone's digging a hole. Could it be that somethin' is digging straight to the Captain's grave on the under side? Might be... I dunno. I just dunno. But, there's definitely a hole... definitely digging."

Edited October 27, 2023 by ariel (see edit history)

Text_1	Text_2	Text_3	Bold_1	Accent_1	Mood_1
Warm_1	Warm_2	Warm_3	Bold_2	Accent_2	Mood_2
Cool_1	Cool_2	Cool_3	Bold_3	Accent_3	Mood_3
Bright_1	Bright_2	Bright_3	Bold_4	Accent_4	Mood_4

Chapter 2: Exhumation

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