The searching yet determined cleric turned sorceror Katherine shares her latest journal entry with us. Her Trevor will soon tell his story as well.
I awake refreshed, once more, in this house of the son Broderick. I am determined this will be the last night in this house. I must also make peace with Trevor, and find out who is responsible for the woman's injuries. After the loose ends are woven, we can go hunt goblins to the north, and rescue survivors.
I knock on Trevor's door. He answers, a bit tired. In the first few moments, I immediately stumble my apology. It was early, and I can only remember half of what I said, and Trevor, probably only heard half as much, and remembers even less. But I must make amends. He says it is not necessary. But I know it is. I continue, and state that I don't want to leave on bad terms. I cannot go to the temple, and I have no coin for a tavern. I go on to explain that the house is causing me to have feelings that are not natural, feelings for Trevor. Wait. I never said that last sentence, at least not that I know. That was what I wanted to state. I forgot. I remember trying my head, thinking, there was something else. Trevor says that it is time to end the stay at Broderick's, and he will suggest to the others to also leave. He was in agreement with leaving the house. It was like with the Priest, Lore, at the temple, we were in total agreement. I also ask Trevor if he can help with my sorcery practice, for I feel the sorcery brewing and he agrees.
Trevor calls a meeting this time. Brute is playing with his new bow. He shows how he pulls the string back and an arrow appears. Very neat. I mean, not every day one sees a bow and how an arrow appears on it, and no one, other than Brute and I are interested in that. Trevor explains that we should move out of the mansion. To add to Trevor's statement, I explain again about my plans to leave. Brute states that we can stay at a tavern, the party coin will pay. Not my favorite choice, but it is better than in the streets. So, we set our agenda for the day: Ohm Uri, Trevor, Boomtuck and Brute will go to the court to see about ownership papers, while Kull and I will take the woman to the temple, and then later will meet at the courts. With a room at the tavern, we can stay longer to figure out who did this to the woman.
Kull and I take the woman to the Law Temple, while Trevor, Brute, Boomtuck and Uhm Uri go to the court to get the ownership papers transferred. Kull's and my trip is without incident. We did discover that the guards were placed there to stop looters. I make a mental note that some one might be watching us.
Unknown to me at the time, the others, despite my urgency I expressed strongly to Brute, are delayed by the house business, yet again. This time, in the cellar, Trevor is heart broken over a discovery of smashed wine bottles that the little gnome did. If Broderick were to press charges on the gnome, we might be minus one. And Ohm Uri wonders off to explore the family crypt. Brute is like herding cats to a bathhouse. Boomtuck states nothing of note, except five coffins and one is opened. This could be bad. How did this little detail not get passed on to me, sooner? Someone is either robbing the graves, or the dead are moving... This could be really bad.
When we meet I see both Brute and Ohm Uri bruised and Brute's weapon is bloodied. They state it was a challenge, from a clan member that Ohm Uri knows, and the challenger retreated, after taking some wounds. I notice blood also on Trevor's shoe, but he is not concerned. Ohm Uri explains that he is protecting some scrolls that a rival clan wants. A new interest is in Ohm Uri, a protector of knowledge. I call that a librarian.
Soon, we see people, many people are talking about a fair or a carnival. It was years since I went to one. The smell of greasy fried food, sweats, trissle tops, smoked and roasted meats, cheeses all filled the air. I am awe struck - all of the tents, fire-spitters, sword-swallowers, jugglers of fire balls, or of swords, animal trainers, and all manner of performers, fortune tellers, and con-artists. I can see why we never went when I was at the priory, I see many more entertainers than actual honest working folks. I can lose myself there, but, I have so many responsibilities and I am swamp by them; I keep my wits. Trevor and I wander around, enjoying the sites. Then Trevor starts explaining to me about a rival of his and how he is here now. And he wants to make right a wrong done to him, by this rival. I agree to help, as I still felt so bad about what I said earlier. Brute disappears and reappears, later, with news that he has a room for me in a tavern. But Ohm Uri and Kull are elsewhere.
While Brute is away, Trevor explains:
The mocking performer, called Rovert, copies Trevor's act, and uses Trevor's name backwards. Trevor plans to stop this, in Trevor's way. Since I already agreed to help, I suggest a few things, one to burn down the tent once everyone is out. That I did to see if anyone was listening to me. With the weird looks from the group, yes, they are listening. I continue with more serious tones, "Trevor should talk to him, and ask him to stop." Trevor jumps in and states, "What if he will not?" "And if he refuses," I add, "then challenge him to a match." The challenge was fresh in my mind, since Ohm Uri just had his challenge. It was better than the normal tactics that Trevor would use, and since I am involved, it must be acceptable to me. Trevor concludes his plan to just go straight for the challenge, in public.
While we wait for the "Greatest Show on Earth," Brute, Trevor and I find a reader of items, a lore master. Brute shows him the bow and axe, and I show the mace. The cost for two items is one gold coin, and Brute pays it. The unnamed lore master weaves magic, and his eyes turn blue. This one is not a charlatan. He examines the axe, and states it is called the executioner. Somehow, it seems that the lore master is identifying Brute, and not the blade. Or I hope a Brute of the past. The lore master adds that the axe will be doubly better against evil. The bow he looks at next, and he says it will shoot arrows without putting shaft to string, just pull back and the arrow appears. Other than that, it is normal, just normal?! This is really nifty. Its odd how some think this bow is just passive, or not great. I think it is one of the coolest things I have ever seen. But, I cannot use it. The magic involved is powerful indeed. It is one thing to make people believe in an illusion, for the mind is easy to play tricks. Unless you have powerful magic, you can't get something from nothing. This is what I see in sorcery, to create force, from nothing. This bow does that, much like I use the sorcerers palm push, to create a force from nothing.
The lore master is done. I say, "You didn't look at my mace." He wants another five silver coins to read it, and Brute pays again. Again, the master loreman's eyes turn blue, as he starts the weaving. As I watch this colleague in the arts, I see my reflection - aglow or bathed in bluish light. The lore master's spell is close to my domain, so it is reasonable that its affects are similar. He starts speaking: "The mace requires a good person to hold," and I affirm in answer. He continues "...there is extra power against undead." When we leave, I look for a sign to his tent, but see none. That is strange, but strange too, that Trevor disappears after we leave the lore master's tent.
Trevor returns back in a little while and is set on exposing the imposter. In the end, Trevor did ruin the show and thus Rovert's show, but Trevor's reputation also suffered. What better way to end a copy cat, than to stop - the copy cat cannot copy anymore? Although I am not sure if that is Trevor's wants. I don't see much point in entertaining, for there are so many more important things to do, and it doesn't matter of Trevor's reputation since he is not performing. I wanted to help a few times during the performance: I thought about standing up, and have the challenge progress by working the crowd, but Brute suggested no. His eyes told me that Trevor got himself in this madness, let him work it out. I see Brute enjoying the show, too. I also see that woman from the tavern, Veronica, and it would be much harder to appear impartial, if she points me out. I would just make it worse. I could not use any sorcery in camouflage, as I am bound by my vows, to use it openly and honestly, and only for good. The domain of the Light is not here. I am helpless and can only watch.
Trevor's magic is better I think, trying to be objective. His hounds are more ferocious. The others are poodles. They do minor trade-offs of illusions. Then Trevor sees an opening and he pulls the trump, he un-masks the fraud by revealing the true hair color, the dark hair color fades to red - truly impressive! Rovert's real name escapes me now, but he is exposed.
The feud took its toll on the crowd, too, and they left upset with both Rovert and Trevor. Then they exchanged words, and only time will tell if Rovert will stop. Last of note is Veronica, after seeing Rovert leave, she tries to force, by way of a hand shackle, to lock her arm to Trevor's, to be with him - forever. Forever - are her words. I have never seen a woman act like this, totally strange and alien. Most would be fleeing for their lives, at least the ones that father brought home on a number of times, after mama died. And now I can act - Veronica steps into the domain of the Light when she imposes this force. I open the shackle and put her free arm in the other cuff, with my now mastered songs of sorcery. She does not even notice. It is a gesture to Trevor that he is free from anyone or thing, and is almost lost in the chaos of the moment.
Finally with Veronica shouting, Trevor is emboldened, and states to Veronica that he "cares for another." Most unexpected - or is it what I wanted? I wait for Veronica to leave after she says another few words. After I am sure they are gone, I start to ask “is this other: me?” but, that would set the answer. Instead, I blurt out, "who is this other?" I set him up. I put him on the defensive. Trevor replies some one else. The same answer at the tavern a few days ago. I think it is good. Nothing's changed - business associates. Did I want him to admit it was me? It is easier if he doesn't care for me. Or is it Trevor just not wanting to admit it? I turn and walk away, but stop, so I can just hear if Brute talks.
He does. I don't hear much, because of the carnival sounds, but do hear Brute saying something like, "Do you like her? If so, tell her!" This was bad. What did I tell Brute? We agreed that Trevor and I have nothing more - Trevor's and Brute's words: business associates. How did this happen? But this now makes matters worse. Do I also care for him more than I want? Maybe I only want it when I knew it is impossible. I cannot let it happen.
I see and hear noises and a ruckus outside of the tent. Trevor and Brute come to me. Trevor lends an arm for me to take, a kind gesture to sum up the evening. I hold back. Was it because I had to tell him more: that we may be under a spell? I cannot allow this? Or was it the ruckus of Kull outside, that made me say, "Not now. I hope you have more up your sleeve, for things may get nasty." Trevor gives me that wink of an eye, stating, "of course," confident he is a magic man.
We all depart Rovert's tent and go outside and see Kull chasing Ohm Uri's rival clan members all over the place. One jumps in a well, and another on Kull’s back. Kull can certainly handle these guys without our help. That was a welcome relief after Trevor's show.
Then we drop back into the usual business, swapping the casual tones for more business talk, as we then travel to get the remaining newly acquired items identified. The spear is of double distance, the Rapier is of the first circle of force, and will not break.
My thoughts move to the group. Brute continues to be so kind to me and so is Kull. Ohm Uri has revealed to us that he is protecting certain scrolls, and adheres to certain combat traditions, where he must duel by himself. With Boomtuck, I have seen very little virtues in the gnome. All of the others have qualities that make them nobler than the rest. Now that I know Trevor is truthful with me, I must make sure no witchcraft is involved. And maybe this caring for me will dissolve along with the witchcraft. It will never work out - I am too busy with the sorcery and all of the other business. I must tell him.
The lore master finishes with the short sword: it glows when near undead, a handy beacon. The he tells this was from a cleric. I knew some clerics that could sense the presence of undead when invoking the power of the Light. This is definitely handy to have as it can save a spell. I think of how I can relax in the tavern room tonight, with Trevor helping me with magic - no, he and I must keep a distance - but I will be away from the mansion.
"And we should see if the sword glows in that mansion, in the cellar, in the crypt, where there are five coffins, and one of them is opened," says Boomtuck!
Friday, November 1, 2013
Friday, October 25, 2013
My RPG Person Profile (thanks Zak)
Okay, so I was over at the Age of Ravens blog and Lowell put up his RPG Person Profile, an idea posted by Zak S. yesterday over at Playing D&D With Porn Stars. So, here is my profile:
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/06/handy-list-of-skills-for-traveler-rpg.html
Free RPG Content I made for any game is available here:
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/02/ideas-for-rpg-gaming-for-visually.html
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/07/more-on-wwi-rpg-campaigns-outdoor.html
I'm currently running (at home): Pathfinder (modified Shackled City adventure path)
Tabletop RPGs I'm currently playing (at home) include: Pathfinder, Castles & Crusades
I would especially like to play/run: Albedo: Platinum Catalyst, CthulhuTech
...but would also try: D&D 4th Edition, Exalted, ACKS
I live in: Maryland; people eat a lot of crabs here
2 or 3 well-known RPG products other people made that I like: Empire of the Petal Throne, Three Sixteen (3:16), Call of Cthulhu, Paranoia, Dyson’s Delves
2 or 3 novels I like: The Gray Prince (Jack Vance), The Stainless Steel Rat's Revenge (Harry Harrison). The Princess Bride (William Goldman)
2 or 3 movies I like: The 5th Element, Castaway on the Moon, Princess Mononoke,
Big Trouble in Little China, Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind
Big Trouble in Little China, Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind
Best place to find me on-line: on Google+ or my blog, The DM from Outremer
I will read almost anything on tabletop RPGs if it's: a world or city guide (especially with maps!)
I really do not want to hear about: general griping/whining without a point
Games I'm in are like: my chance to do bits of improv acting to entertain myself and my friends
Free RPG Content I made for D&D type games is available here:
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/10/the-dwarven-rearguard.html
Free RPG Content I made for Pathfinder/3.5 games is available here:
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/08/the-yellow-dragonkin.html
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-red-dragonkin.html
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-black-dragonkin.html
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/07/so-you-want-to-be-witch-in-pathfinder.html
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/07/so-you-want-to-be-witch-some-more-in.html
Free RPG Content I made for Traveler games is available here:
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/06/handy-list-of-skills-for-traveler-rpg.html
Free RPG Content I made for any game is available here:
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/02/ideas-for-rpg-gaming-for-visually.html
http://outremerdm.blogspot.com/2013/07/more-on-wwi-rpg-campaigns-outdoor.html
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Chronicles of the Amazing Trevor: Chapter Six (Words of Passion)
In which Trevor encounters a ghoul, witchcraft, Veronica, magical treasures, and fantastical portals to other worlds--all of which pale in comparison to the incredible words which his lovely Katherine speaks to him in a moment of unreserved passion...
Following our late-night contretemps with the riverine child slavers who had posed as clerics of the Temple of Light we returned at length to the mansion, a place I was beginning to feel more and more at home in. Katherine slept in the same room as the rescued children so as to relieve their fears but a couple preferred to spend the night in the stable with the gentle giant Kull. Uhmri informed us that he planned to sleep up on the roof, but as I had earlier determined that he was in fact a druid I was little surprised. I was however very much taken aback to glance down a corridor on my way to a well-deserved feather bed and see Katherine happily embracing the odd-fellow Brute.
Katherine happily embracing the odd-fellow Brute?
I stopped, uncertain that I had seen what I had seen. But then it happened again...and again.
Well.
I quite literally did not know what to think. So with that I simply took myself off to bed and let the deep oblivion of the dreamlands take me away.
The sound of marching military boots awoke me with a jolt early the next morning. A raid! No stranger to the sudden arrival of the watch, I immediately dressed and mentally reviewed escape routes off the property. The troop halted outside the front gate and I heard the sargeant post two of his watchies and march the rest on. But they could be posting guards in a cordon all around and so speed was of the essence. I rushed downstairs post-haste to where Katherine already was gathering our troops, as it were. She was all business and brushed off my attempts to apologize for the fiasco with Veronica at dinner the previous evening.
For some minutes we waited in breathless anticipation of the assault, but none came. Apparently the house was simply being placed under closer guard. We soon continued discussing our next move. Katherine was determined to take young Broderick Natal to the city court and get him somehow recognized as the legitimate heir of his late councilman father Remi. I demurred, pointing out that the remainder of his family and apparently also the household staff had been mysteriously detained. If Broderick was presented as a surviving member of the family he might well be clapped in irons straightaway (and us with him, mind you). Katherine, however, was not entirely dissuaded. To mollify her I offered to make use of my not inconsiderable skills as a thespian to don a disguise and make inquiries at the court. I planned to pose as a distant cousin of Remi's innocently arriving in town for a visit and finding him missing. The group's reaction to my reasonably clever plan was mixed but in the end they were for it.
Katherine, Brute, and Kull gathered the children to head down to the temple once again. My K. was particularly concerned that young Merity be included--as was I, to be quite frank. However she was nowhere in sight. The mute servant Kevin, in typically semi-helpful fashion, tried to pantomime the situation for us. After a few moments of fruitlessly watching him we simply decided on our own that since she was not here she must be hiding inside somewhere. The gnome, too, was missing. This time Kevin was able to explain that the bearded little grasshopper was dead asleep somewhere inside. Clearly this Kevin fellow would have to be replaced as soon as Broderick and I got around to reopening the mansion.
So we went our separate ways for the day. Katherine, Brute, and Kull proceeded out the back with the children towards the temple. Uhmri set out for the market for something--mostly likely a new fishing pole. I went quietly back up to Remi's room to browse his wardrobe for a disguise. The contents were of reasonable quality materials but of a somewhat nouveau riche style. Clearly I should start planning for my own wardrobe once I was all settled in. Remi had been slightly taller and a bit thicker around the middle but I was able eventually to effect an ensemble suitable for the role I planned to play.
Suddenly it struck me that the mansion was very quiet indeed. Then I remembered: the secret treasure room behind the fireplace! It wouldn't take long to give it a look, and perhaps pocket a choice item or two, before heading out to the courts. I slipped down the corridors towards the study, the entire time dreading an encounter with Merity who was still on the loose somewhere. But luck was with me and I made it undetected.
A bit of prestidigitation on the mosaic and the back of the fireplace easily swung wide. To my surprise, and mild consternation, it was not a small treasure room but a fairly large bare room with a staircase going up and stone steps leading down. Downwards seemed dark and unappealing so I chose upwards. After a very long set of stairs I arrived at a landing with a door.
I paused, remembering that the houses of the wealthy often had secret back staircases. These allowed a way to get out of trouble if secret assassins arrived and a way to get into trouble if secret lovers arrived. This simple door likely opened into a bedroom--where Merity might be waiting. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up like a hedgehog's spines. I imagined her there in nothing more than a thin nightgown she was just trying on from Madam Natal's wardrobe, seeing me, and rushing over just in time for the gnome to walk in. I would never be able to explain my way out of it, secret staircase or no. But then, this might be just the hidden treasure-house of my dreams. I couldn't turn back now. I grasped the knob in authoritative fashion, took a breath, and made my entrance.
My rakish tilt of cap and well-executed grand sweep of cape were, alas, entirely wasted. The room was unoccupied--but by no means unfurnished. In fact the furnishings gave me more of a start than Merity in a nightgown. This was clearly a chamber of magick most foul. The room was hexagonal, the two walls to right and left each had a large mirror and the far wall a wardrobe. Mirrors again! Thankfully all the mirrors were covered with silk drapes to ensure that the viewer's soul could not be accidentally sucked from his heart and transported to the far nether regions of hell where cackling fiends would tear at it with cruel red hot claws and lash it with the tentacles of strange octopus-like creatures chained to the long rune-inscribed spinal columns of lich-werewolves which had been magicked by immersion in the caustic steaming oozes excreted from the bloated hind end of a...erm...I shook the visions from my head and focused once again on the intriguing wardrobe on the far wall.
It appeared ordinary enough--but as an experienced illusionologist I knew just how deceiving looks could be. A bit of prestidigitation from a safe distance opened the door, revealing an assortment of women's clothing and two wooden boxes. I gently lifted one box out with an additional bit of weirding and tossed it on the ground. It shattered and out tumbled a tome of the most obvious evil. I left it where it lay and brought out the second box. Removing the lid I discovered two cloth bags lying inside. Throwing caution to the wind I opened one and then the other. The first contained four rings, fitted with a gem of red, dark blue, green, and white respectively. The second held three items of mildly interesting jewelry. I was quite chuffed. Finally, things were looking up in the wealth department. But I had stayed in this room of arcane devilry long enough--perhaps too long. I descended the staircase, my spirits buoyed by the lovely twinkly bits of jewelry tucked snug in my purse.
As I learned later, the trio of Beauty and the Odd-Beasts had arrived in due time at the Temple of Light. They met a priest there, apparently a genuine one this time, and discussed placing the orphans as apprentices at farms and other rural places with a lot of animals and poop. Kull assisted the temple with repositioning a particularly large bit of ornamental stonework and they were rewarded with permission to arm themselves from an old crusader trove in the cellars. Kull found a superb greatsword, Brute a greataxe and massive bow, and Katherine a shortsword, mace, rapier, and spear--almost as good a haul as two bags of jewelry, one might say.
Umhri, meanwhile, was browsing the market stalls. He spotted the sneak-thief gnome we'd dealt with before who apparently made an entire career of posing as a child. The little blighter was helping himself to purses right and left. Failing to engage the interest of nearby guards he pursued the cutpurse on a merry chase about the market and finally cornered him in a woman's stall. Awkwardly, the scamp concealed himself under her enormous skirt. Uhmri seized the gnome's legs under her skirt and was almost arrested by the watch--who only now took an interest--for attempting improprieties with her nether regions. To Uhmri's satisfaction the gnome was apprehended and marched off. The young druid resumed his shopping and eventually purchased a rather decent set of protective bracers.
Back at the mansion I paused behind the fireplace and was annoyed to hear the gnome and Merity outside in the study. Merity had apparently seen me entering the study. For a tense few moments I listened to them search about the fireplace but they were unsuccessful. With my exit temporarily encumbered with their presence I decided to descend the stone steps to whatever lay below. A simple flourish of the wrist produced a quotidian arcane light to guide my way. The steps wound down into a small room with a heavy iron-bound door with a small barred window. The question was whether this door was to keep intruders out or something in. After viewing the witch's playroom upstairs I was on my guard. There could be any manner of creature penned in here. Then I spotted a key on a hook on the wall--proof that this was indeed for containment. Cautiously I peered through the bars of the small window...and something stirred within! Indeed there were two, one lying on the ground the other straining at chains set into the wall. They wore ragged-looking clothing and the active one made unnatural croaking and moaning sounds as it attempted to break free and feast on my flesh.
I leapt back. What manner of creature were these? The mansion had been unoccupied for some time and these hidden rooms did not appear frequently used. How long had they been down here? Then it struck me: they must be ghouls, unliving creatures kept here by the witch to dispose of the bodies of her victims. The unliving did not need food or drink and could be kept in such a place indefinitely. The view into the shadowed chamber through the small opening was poor but what else could they be? Ghouls were accounted to be extremely dangerous. Even thus chained they might use the necrotic weirding power in their eyes to compel me to place myself in their cruel grasp. But I knew that the unliving recoiled from the Light and quickly resolved to find Katherine at once to aid in dispatching the foul creatures.
Katherine, meanwhile, was enduring an awkward interview with the head of the temple, a certain Brother Lore. The trio described him later as freshly barbered, uncommonly fastidious, and smelling strongly of soap. Lore did reveal that the temple was closed on certain days because most of his people were away up north opposing the goblin menace. He also mentioned that he had not heard from them in weeks. Lore promised to ask the L&Os to station a paladin on days the temple was closed to prevent bogus priests from operating there.
Hurrying up from the cell level I paused behind the fireplace to ascertain whether Merity or Boomtock the gnome were still there. Merity babbled on for a bit as young girls do and then left to find more interesting pursuits. There were some indeterminate noises and then I heard some unpleasant grunting noises from the gnome. I was just blanking my mind to avoid imagining what Boomtock might be doing to himself after spending a time in unrequited proximity to the young maiden when the fireplace swung open. Damn! Damn gnomes and their annoying cleverness with mechanisms!
I stood nonplussed for a moment, then hit upon an idea. "I say, Boomtock, you're just the man I was looking for. I've found the treasure room. It's downstairs. It's desperately stuffy down there and I just had to come up for air. Do have a look won't you, there's a good chap." I went over and opened the window. He took the hint and disappeared down the steps. I edged over towards the door so I could run and get Katherine as soon as I heard the heavy door open. Alas, the annoyingly clever little monkey-man reappeared almost immediately. He reported finding no treasure, just some "people" in a room.
Back in town Uhmri continued his perambulations and by ill chance encountered Veronica, a woman who until last night had been my Biggest Fan Ever. In typical fashion, she immediately took a fancy to his wiry physique (apparently despite the home-made wolf pelt overgarment which he insisted on wearing). She was just moving in to take possession of her new toy when Kull, Brute, and Katherine arrived. As the two champions of womanhood took the measure of one another, Uhmri took advantage of the distraction to make his escape. But Katherine had no intention of shouldering his burden and helpfully showed Veronica the direction he had taken.
The three continued their shopping. Kull purchased some footwear, possibly his first ever personal experience with that particular item of apparel. Brute, stout fellow, found himself in the unenviable situation of holding Katherine's belongings while she examined several gowns. Bored and chagrined at his well-meaning but somewhat unmanly situation he made a terrible miscalculation. Turning to Kull he whispered in jest, "Run". Alas, he had entirely forgotten what a steadfastly literally minded fellow was our Kull.
Kull naturally assumed that Brute was warning him of some hidden danger and immediately began a one-man stampede through the crowded marketplace. His massive bulk went through the crowd like a plow down a furrow. The watchies on guard nearby made the mistake of taking up the chase. Awnings and baskets flew up like geese disturbed by a naughty child as Kull followed his new orders to the best of his ability. The pursuing agents of law and order struggled to match the raw power of his heroic thighs, each one possessing individually the might of a raging bull. He was unstoppable.
Katherine, after an extended period of careful consideration, finally decided on a truly lovely gown of finely woven deep sapphire blue wool with a lining of the fairest silk. Embroidery sewn by the most patient grannies in the city graced the hem and collar in delightful fashion. It was absolutely worth every last gold coin she had (which is exactly what she paid for it). But the romantic music of harps in her mind faded suddenly as Brute dragged her off to find Kull.
By now the largest of our odd-fellows was down by the cemetery. Kull stood, looking about with deeply furrowed brow. He rummaged about in the echoing caverns of his skull for the reason he was in this place but came up empty handed. It was a hard question. Kull wasn't good at hard questions. His friend Brute was good at questions. Perhaps Brute would know. So he set off to find his friend and ask why he was at the cemetery.
Brute, Katherine, and their shopping bundles followed the trail of sweaty, exhausted town watchmen scattered in the streets in the wake of the bipedal leviathan. They caught up with him at a small smithy. The massive odd-fellow had happened on it and asked to work on his newly acquired sword. Thus was he at his work, the very picture of controlled might. His childhood skills came back to him easily as he worked the steel. And he sang. He sang with a voice uncountably pure for one so misshapen. He sang with passion and feeling unleashed as his mind was concerned with hammer and fire. Nearby the teenaged daughters of the smith secretly enjoyed watching his glistening, rippling, shirtless skills as he worked. Brute and Kull had a joyful reunion like long-lost brothers then returned with Katherine to the mansion.
Uhmri made his way to the river bank just outside of town. He intended to relax after his rather unnerving encounter with Veronica, the Ravenous She-Wolf of Adan, with a bit of fishing. There was nothing quite so enjoyable as a bank, a stream, and a baited line. The sun was warm and the grass soft. Soon he was accompanied on the bank by several decently sized fish. He was just starting to really relax when he was suddenly accosted by two oafish watchies who claimed that fishing was illegal here. It was then that the young druid noticed the inconvenient sign nearby to that effect. The two demanded he pay a fine--in cash. Uhmri refused and after some roughhousing he dived in and swam quickly to the safety of the far bank. The pair bantered with him a bit then confiscated his fish. Squeezing the water from his assemblage of wolf pelts the soggy druid headed back to the mansion.
I, meanwhile, tracked down the servant Kevin. The fellow always seemed to know more than he let on and it was possible he knew all about the horrors in the secret cellars. However he seemed genuinely amazed at the secret room behind the fireplace when I revealed it to him. Then I led him downstairs to gauge his reaction to the ghouls. The poor fellow leapt back in abject terror, then fled with a silent scream curiously framed on his voiceless mouth. Needing time to think all this over I headed to a nearby tavern in search of a much needed strong drink.
Kull, Brute, and Katherine were nearing the house when they beheld the spectacle of Boomtock bouncing down the street like some large, bearded rabbit. He was pursued by an enraged watchie intent on his capture. The escapade was occasioned by Boomtock needing an entertaining diversion after the disappointment of not finding any treasure in the secret cellar. Looking out the window he'd spotted the two guards posted at the mansion gate that morning. The watchies were always a handy source of entertainment. He had quickly activated his magic boots and engaged them in a game of tag. After Boomtock disappeared off down the street, Kevin rushed up to the trio and wildly pantomimed something about "Trevor in prison".
At the tavern I ordered a drink. The barmaid began chatting me up, apparently taking a fancy to me. She asked me what I did. Confident in my well-chosen set of fine garments, with cap and cape adjusted to best affect, I looked into her eyes and said "I'm an illusionologist". Now, women love a well-dressed man. And when one combines that with a profession of significant status the effect is irresistible. She would be the moth to my flame. She looked back at me, clearly appraising my strong jaw and perfectly trimmed moustache. Then she said, "Oh", and wandered off to take some dirty glasses in the back for washing.
Back at the mansion, Katherine, Brute, and Kull followed Kevin down into the cellar. Entering the cell with little regard for their own safety they found a woman and man in servant's clothing chained to the wall. The man was already dead but the woman was barely alive. She struggled to speak but they saw that her tongue had been cut out. Also in the room were whips, some odd devices for drawing blood, and several brass goblets with dried blood in them. They brought the surviving victim up and made her comfortable.
Then they went upstairs to the witch's hex room. Entering to explore, Kull accidentally knocked one of the coverings off a mirror. Instead of reflecting him there in the room it showed him standing in a green forest. They quickly pulled all the coverings off and found that the other three mirrors showed scenes of a sea coast, a winter landscape, and a desert. The frames of the four mirrors were painted in colors suggesting the scenes: green, blue, white, and red. Noticing the arcane tome on the floor where I left it, Brute considered destroying it with his ax. Katherine prevailed on him to leave it, suggesting that the magic within could be used for good.
On my way back to the mansion I was almost trampled by Boomtock. He bounded down the street with a wild grin on his face, clearly enjoying the effects of his new boots. The two watchies pursuing him, however, were clearly not enjoying the effects of his new boots at all. Entering the house I encountered my three companions downstairs. I quickly warned them that there was a secret area with chamber of black witchery in the attic and ghouls chained in the basement. In turn they quickly explained to me all that they had uncovered in those very same rooms.
I was devastated. My mind reeled in consternation. How could I have been so blind? That poor woman in the cellar! How many times had one of us gone down there, looked in with a light, then departed leaving her still chained in darkness? Katherine challenged me on why I had not rescued the prisoner. She was incredulous. Her eyes blazed with passion. She was magnificent while I was nothing. Crushed, I attempted to explain how it all had seemed, the strange sounds the woman made, the darkness, and my plan to bring Katherine to use the Light. She would hear none of it. "Trevor, grow some balls!", she exclaimed. It was like being stuck in the face with a hard-thrown snowball.
I was spared further devastation by the sudden arrival of Uhmri, still dripping. We informed him of the recent important events. I showed the group the four rings I had discovered in the wardrobe with colored gems corresponding to the colors of the mirror frames. Then Kull finally remembered that he had a question for his friend Brute. "Why Brute say run?", he asked. That led to mention of the shopping in the market and only then did I notice all the weapons, armor, clothing, bracers, and shoes which my companions had acquired. I found that a bit annoying. I asked if they'd really spent the entire afternoon just shopping and flitting about town while I heroically braved dangerous secret rooms alone. They countered with a query on whether I'd actually gone to the courts as agreed. I counter-countered with the explanation that once I'd found a chamber of witchery and an apparent ghoul in the house the clandestine visit to the courts became of secondary importance.
We bickered and traded counter-counter-counter accusations for a while, then I left to make what apologies I could to the unfortunate woman from the cellar. She was resting in bed but seemed to not recognize her surroundings at all. Apparently the horrifying experience in the cell had driven her senseless. Humbled, I fed her some soup and tucked in the bedcovers.
Afterwards I returned to my room. Exhausted and rather demoralized I dumped my borrowed finery on a chair and crawled under the covers. The fragments of my shattered relationship with Katherine were now completely ground down into dust. How could things possibly get any worse? At length I drifted off into an uneasy sleep and had a dream wherein I stepped through a mirror into a bright, fantastical meadow...
Following our late-night contretemps with the riverine child slavers who had posed as clerics of the Temple of Light we returned at length to the mansion, a place I was beginning to feel more and more at home in. Katherine slept in the same room as the rescued children so as to relieve their fears but a couple preferred to spend the night in the stable with the gentle giant Kull. Uhmri informed us that he planned to sleep up on the roof, but as I had earlier determined that he was in fact a druid I was little surprised. I was however very much taken aback to glance down a corridor on my way to a well-deserved feather bed and see Katherine happily embracing the odd-fellow Brute.
Katherine happily embracing the odd-fellow Brute?
I stopped, uncertain that I had seen what I had seen. But then it happened again...and again.
Well.
I quite literally did not know what to think. So with that I simply took myself off to bed and let the deep oblivion of the dreamlands take me away.
The sound of marching military boots awoke me with a jolt early the next morning. A raid! No stranger to the sudden arrival of the watch, I immediately dressed and mentally reviewed escape routes off the property. The troop halted outside the front gate and I heard the sargeant post two of his watchies and march the rest on. But they could be posting guards in a cordon all around and so speed was of the essence. I rushed downstairs post-haste to where Katherine already was gathering our troops, as it were. She was all business and brushed off my attempts to apologize for the fiasco with Veronica at dinner the previous evening.
For some minutes we waited in breathless anticipation of the assault, but none came. Apparently the house was simply being placed under closer guard. We soon continued discussing our next move. Katherine was determined to take young Broderick Natal to the city court and get him somehow recognized as the legitimate heir of his late councilman father Remi. I demurred, pointing out that the remainder of his family and apparently also the household staff had been mysteriously detained. If Broderick was presented as a surviving member of the family he might well be clapped in irons straightaway (and us with him, mind you). Katherine, however, was not entirely dissuaded. To mollify her I offered to make use of my not inconsiderable skills as a thespian to don a disguise and make inquiries at the court. I planned to pose as a distant cousin of Remi's innocently arriving in town for a visit and finding him missing. The group's reaction to my reasonably clever plan was mixed but in the end they were for it.
Katherine, Brute, and Kull gathered the children to head down to the temple once again. My K. was particularly concerned that young Merity be included--as was I, to be quite frank. However she was nowhere in sight. The mute servant Kevin, in typically semi-helpful fashion, tried to pantomime the situation for us. After a few moments of fruitlessly watching him we simply decided on our own that since she was not here she must be hiding inside somewhere. The gnome, too, was missing. This time Kevin was able to explain that the bearded little grasshopper was dead asleep somewhere inside. Clearly this Kevin fellow would have to be replaced as soon as Broderick and I got around to reopening the mansion.
So we went our separate ways for the day. Katherine, Brute, and Kull proceeded out the back with the children towards the temple. Uhmri set out for the market for something--mostly likely a new fishing pole. I went quietly back up to Remi's room to browse his wardrobe for a disguise. The contents were of reasonable quality materials but of a somewhat nouveau riche style. Clearly I should start planning for my own wardrobe once I was all settled in. Remi had been slightly taller and a bit thicker around the middle but I was able eventually to effect an ensemble suitable for the role I planned to play.
Suddenly it struck me that the mansion was very quiet indeed. Then I remembered: the secret treasure room behind the fireplace! It wouldn't take long to give it a look, and perhaps pocket a choice item or two, before heading out to the courts. I slipped down the corridors towards the study, the entire time dreading an encounter with Merity who was still on the loose somewhere. But luck was with me and I made it undetected.
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| Trevor by the mosaic (image found on the internets, not mine) |
I paused, remembering that the houses of the wealthy often had secret back staircases. These allowed a way to get out of trouble if secret assassins arrived and a way to get into trouble if secret lovers arrived. This simple door likely opened into a bedroom--where Merity might be waiting. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up like a hedgehog's spines. I imagined her there in nothing more than a thin nightgown she was just trying on from Madam Natal's wardrobe, seeing me, and rushing over just in time for the gnome to walk in. I would never be able to explain my way out of it, secret staircase or no. But then, this might be just the hidden treasure-house of my dreams. I couldn't turn back now. I grasped the knob in authoritative fashion, took a breath, and made my entrance.
My rakish tilt of cap and well-executed grand sweep of cape were, alas, entirely wasted. The room was unoccupied--but by no means unfurnished. In fact the furnishings gave me more of a start than Merity in a nightgown. This was clearly a chamber of magick most foul. The room was hexagonal, the two walls to right and left each had a large mirror and the far wall a wardrobe. Mirrors again! Thankfully all the mirrors were covered with silk drapes to ensure that the viewer's soul could not be accidentally sucked from his heart and transported to the far nether regions of hell where cackling fiends would tear at it with cruel red hot claws and lash it with the tentacles of strange octopus-like creatures chained to the long rune-inscribed spinal columns of lich-werewolves which had been magicked by immersion in the caustic steaming oozes excreted from the bloated hind end of a...erm...I shook the visions from my head and focused once again on the intriguing wardrobe on the far wall.
It appeared ordinary enough--but as an experienced illusionologist I knew just how deceiving looks could be. A bit of prestidigitation from a safe distance opened the door, revealing an assortment of women's clothing and two wooden boxes. I gently lifted one box out with an additional bit of weirding and tossed it on the ground. It shattered and out tumbled a tome of the most obvious evil. I left it where it lay and brought out the second box. Removing the lid I discovered two cloth bags lying inside. Throwing caution to the wind I opened one and then the other. The first contained four rings, fitted with a gem of red, dark blue, green, and white respectively. The second held three items of mildly interesting jewelry. I was quite chuffed. Finally, things were looking up in the wealth department. But I had stayed in this room of arcane devilry long enough--perhaps too long. I descended the staircase, my spirits buoyed by the lovely twinkly bits of jewelry tucked snug in my purse.
As I learned later, the trio of Beauty and the Odd-Beasts had arrived in due time at the Temple of Light. They met a priest there, apparently a genuine one this time, and discussed placing the orphans as apprentices at farms and other rural places with a lot of animals and poop. Kull assisted the temple with repositioning a particularly large bit of ornamental stonework and they were rewarded with permission to arm themselves from an old crusader trove in the cellars. Kull found a superb greatsword, Brute a greataxe and massive bow, and Katherine a shortsword, mace, rapier, and spear--almost as good a haul as two bags of jewelry, one might say.
Umhri, meanwhile, was browsing the market stalls. He spotted the sneak-thief gnome we'd dealt with before who apparently made an entire career of posing as a child. The little blighter was helping himself to purses right and left. Failing to engage the interest of nearby guards he pursued the cutpurse on a merry chase about the market and finally cornered him in a woman's stall. Awkwardly, the scamp concealed himself under her enormous skirt. Uhmri seized the gnome's legs under her skirt and was almost arrested by the watch--who only now took an interest--for attempting improprieties with her nether regions. To Uhmri's satisfaction the gnome was apprehended and marched off. The young druid resumed his shopping and eventually purchased a rather decent set of protective bracers.
Back at the mansion I paused behind the fireplace and was annoyed to hear the gnome and Merity outside in the study. Merity had apparently seen me entering the study. For a tense few moments I listened to them search about the fireplace but they were unsuccessful. With my exit temporarily encumbered with their presence I decided to descend the stone steps to whatever lay below. A simple flourish of the wrist produced a quotidian arcane light to guide my way. The steps wound down into a small room with a heavy iron-bound door with a small barred window. The question was whether this door was to keep intruders out or something in. After viewing the witch's playroom upstairs I was on my guard. There could be any manner of creature penned in here. Then I spotted a key on a hook on the wall--proof that this was indeed for containment. Cautiously I peered through the bars of the small window...and something stirred within! Indeed there were two, one lying on the ground the other straining at chains set into the wall. They wore ragged-looking clothing and the active one made unnatural croaking and moaning sounds as it attempted to break free and feast on my flesh.
I leapt back. What manner of creature were these? The mansion had been unoccupied for some time and these hidden rooms did not appear frequently used. How long had they been down here? Then it struck me: they must be ghouls, unliving creatures kept here by the witch to dispose of the bodies of her victims. The unliving did not need food or drink and could be kept in such a place indefinitely. The view into the shadowed chamber through the small opening was poor but what else could they be? Ghouls were accounted to be extremely dangerous. Even thus chained they might use the necrotic weirding power in their eyes to compel me to place myself in their cruel grasp. But I knew that the unliving recoiled from the Light and quickly resolved to find Katherine at once to aid in dispatching the foul creatures.
Katherine, meanwhile, was enduring an awkward interview with the head of the temple, a certain Brother Lore. The trio described him later as freshly barbered, uncommonly fastidious, and smelling strongly of soap. Lore did reveal that the temple was closed on certain days because most of his people were away up north opposing the goblin menace. He also mentioned that he had not heard from them in weeks. Lore promised to ask the L&Os to station a paladin on days the temple was closed to prevent bogus priests from operating there.
Hurrying up from the cell level I paused behind the fireplace to ascertain whether Merity or Boomtock the gnome were still there. Merity babbled on for a bit as young girls do and then left to find more interesting pursuits. There were some indeterminate noises and then I heard some unpleasant grunting noises from the gnome. I was just blanking my mind to avoid imagining what Boomtock might be doing to himself after spending a time in unrequited proximity to the young maiden when the fireplace swung open. Damn! Damn gnomes and their annoying cleverness with mechanisms!
I stood nonplussed for a moment, then hit upon an idea. "I say, Boomtock, you're just the man I was looking for. I've found the treasure room. It's downstairs. It's desperately stuffy down there and I just had to come up for air. Do have a look won't you, there's a good chap." I went over and opened the window. He took the hint and disappeared down the steps. I edged over towards the door so I could run and get Katherine as soon as I heard the heavy door open. Alas, the annoyingly clever little monkey-man reappeared almost immediately. He reported finding no treasure, just some "people" in a room.
Back in town Uhmri continued his perambulations and by ill chance encountered Veronica, a woman who until last night had been my Biggest Fan Ever. In typical fashion, she immediately took a fancy to his wiry physique (apparently despite the home-made wolf pelt overgarment which he insisted on wearing). She was just moving in to take possession of her new toy when Kull, Brute, and Katherine arrived. As the two champions of womanhood took the measure of one another, Uhmri took advantage of the distraction to make his escape. But Katherine had no intention of shouldering his burden and helpfully showed Veronica the direction he had taken.
The three continued their shopping. Kull purchased some footwear, possibly his first ever personal experience with that particular item of apparel. Brute, stout fellow, found himself in the unenviable situation of holding Katherine's belongings while she examined several gowns. Bored and chagrined at his well-meaning but somewhat unmanly situation he made a terrible miscalculation. Turning to Kull he whispered in jest, "Run". Alas, he had entirely forgotten what a steadfastly literally minded fellow was our Kull.
Kull naturally assumed that Brute was warning him of some hidden danger and immediately began a one-man stampede through the crowded marketplace. His massive bulk went through the crowd like a plow down a furrow. The watchies on guard nearby made the mistake of taking up the chase. Awnings and baskets flew up like geese disturbed by a naughty child as Kull followed his new orders to the best of his ability. The pursuing agents of law and order struggled to match the raw power of his heroic thighs, each one possessing individually the might of a raging bull. He was unstoppable.
Katherine, after an extended period of careful consideration, finally decided on a truly lovely gown of finely woven deep sapphire blue wool with a lining of the fairest silk. Embroidery sewn by the most patient grannies in the city graced the hem and collar in delightful fashion. It was absolutely worth every last gold coin she had (which is exactly what she paid for it). But the romantic music of harps in her mind faded suddenly as Brute dragged her off to find Kull.
By now the largest of our odd-fellows was down by the cemetery. Kull stood, looking about with deeply furrowed brow. He rummaged about in the echoing caverns of his skull for the reason he was in this place but came up empty handed. It was a hard question. Kull wasn't good at hard questions. His friend Brute was good at questions. Perhaps Brute would know. So he set off to find his friend and ask why he was at the cemetery.
Brute, Katherine, and their shopping bundles followed the trail of sweaty, exhausted town watchmen scattered in the streets in the wake of the bipedal leviathan. They caught up with him at a small smithy. The massive odd-fellow had happened on it and asked to work on his newly acquired sword. Thus was he at his work, the very picture of controlled might. His childhood skills came back to him easily as he worked the steel. And he sang. He sang with a voice uncountably pure for one so misshapen. He sang with passion and feeling unleashed as his mind was concerned with hammer and fire. Nearby the teenaged daughters of the smith secretly enjoyed watching his glistening, rippling, shirtless skills as he worked. Brute and Kull had a joyful reunion like long-lost brothers then returned with Katherine to the mansion.
Uhmri made his way to the river bank just outside of town. He intended to relax after his rather unnerving encounter with Veronica, the Ravenous She-Wolf of Adan, with a bit of fishing. There was nothing quite so enjoyable as a bank, a stream, and a baited line. The sun was warm and the grass soft. Soon he was accompanied on the bank by several decently sized fish. He was just starting to really relax when he was suddenly accosted by two oafish watchies who claimed that fishing was illegal here. It was then that the young druid noticed the inconvenient sign nearby to that effect. The two demanded he pay a fine--in cash. Uhmri refused and after some roughhousing he dived in and swam quickly to the safety of the far bank. The pair bantered with him a bit then confiscated his fish. Squeezing the water from his assemblage of wolf pelts the soggy druid headed back to the mansion.
I, meanwhile, tracked down the servant Kevin. The fellow always seemed to know more than he let on and it was possible he knew all about the horrors in the secret cellars. However he seemed genuinely amazed at the secret room behind the fireplace when I revealed it to him. Then I led him downstairs to gauge his reaction to the ghouls. The poor fellow leapt back in abject terror, then fled with a silent scream curiously framed on his voiceless mouth. Needing time to think all this over I headed to a nearby tavern in search of a much needed strong drink.
Kull, Brute, and Katherine were nearing the house when they beheld the spectacle of Boomtock bouncing down the street like some large, bearded rabbit. He was pursued by an enraged watchie intent on his capture. The escapade was occasioned by Boomtock needing an entertaining diversion after the disappointment of not finding any treasure in the secret cellar. Looking out the window he'd spotted the two guards posted at the mansion gate that morning. The watchies were always a handy source of entertainment. He had quickly activated his magic boots and engaged them in a game of tag. After Boomtock disappeared off down the street, Kevin rushed up to the trio and wildly pantomimed something about "Trevor in prison".
At the tavern I ordered a drink. The barmaid began chatting me up, apparently taking a fancy to me. She asked me what I did. Confident in my well-chosen set of fine garments, with cap and cape adjusted to best affect, I looked into her eyes and said "I'm an illusionologist". Now, women love a well-dressed man. And when one combines that with a profession of significant status the effect is irresistible. She would be the moth to my flame. She looked back at me, clearly appraising my strong jaw and perfectly trimmed moustache. Then she said, "Oh", and wandered off to take some dirty glasses in the back for washing.
Back at the mansion, Katherine, Brute, and Kull followed Kevin down into the cellar. Entering the cell with little regard for their own safety they found a woman and man in servant's clothing chained to the wall. The man was already dead but the woman was barely alive. She struggled to speak but they saw that her tongue had been cut out. Also in the room were whips, some odd devices for drawing blood, and several brass goblets with dried blood in them. They brought the surviving victim up and made her comfortable.
Then they went upstairs to the witch's hex room. Entering to explore, Kull accidentally knocked one of the coverings off a mirror. Instead of reflecting him there in the room it showed him standing in a green forest. They quickly pulled all the coverings off and found that the other three mirrors showed scenes of a sea coast, a winter landscape, and a desert. The frames of the four mirrors were painted in colors suggesting the scenes: green, blue, white, and red. Noticing the arcane tome on the floor where I left it, Brute considered destroying it with his ax. Katherine prevailed on him to leave it, suggesting that the magic within could be used for good.
On my way back to the mansion I was almost trampled by Boomtock. He bounded down the street with a wild grin on his face, clearly enjoying the effects of his new boots. The two watchies pursuing him, however, were clearly not enjoying the effects of his new boots at all. Entering the house I encountered my three companions downstairs. I quickly warned them that there was a secret area with chamber of black witchery in the attic and ghouls chained in the basement. In turn they quickly explained to me all that they had uncovered in those very same rooms.
I was devastated. My mind reeled in consternation. How could I have been so blind? That poor woman in the cellar! How many times had one of us gone down there, looked in with a light, then departed leaving her still chained in darkness? Katherine challenged me on why I had not rescued the prisoner. She was incredulous. Her eyes blazed with passion. She was magnificent while I was nothing. Crushed, I attempted to explain how it all had seemed, the strange sounds the woman made, the darkness, and my plan to bring Katherine to use the Light. She would hear none of it. "Trevor, grow some balls!", she exclaimed. It was like being stuck in the face with a hard-thrown snowball.
I was spared further devastation by the sudden arrival of Uhmri, still dripping. We informed him of the recent important events. I showed the group the four rings I had discovered in the wardrobe with colored gems corresponding to the colors of the mirror frames. Then Kull finally remembered that he had a question for his friend Brute. "Why Brute say run?", he asked. That led to mention of the shopping in the market and only then did I notice all the weapons, armor, clothing, bracers, and shoes which my companions had acquired. I found that a bit annoying. I asked if they'd really spent the entire afternoon just shopping and flitting about town while I heroically braved dangerous secret rooms alone. They countered with a query on whether I'd actually gone to the courts as agreed. I counter-countered with the explanation that once I'd found a chamber of witchery and an apparent ghoul in the house the clandestine visit to the courts became of secondary importance.
We bickered and traded counter-counter-counter accusations for a while, then I left to make what apologies I could to the unfortunate woman from the cellar. She was resting in bed but seemed to not recognize her surroundings at all. Apparently the horrifying experience in the cell had driven her senseless. Humbled, I fed her some soup and tucked in the bedcovers.
Afterwards I returned to my room. Exhausted and rather demoralized I dumped my borrowed finery on a chair and crawled under the covers. The fragments of my shattered relationship with Katherine were now completely ground down into dust. How could things possibly get any worse? At length I drifted off into an uneasy sleep and had a dream wherein I stepped through a mirror into a bright, fantastical meadow...
The Journal of Katherine, Entries 39 and 40
Following our last Castles & Crusades romp, the young sorcerer-cleric Katherine once again ponders recent events in her personal journal.
Entry 39 (continues)...
Because of the evening's awkward moments, I wait for Brute to come back, for I must talk and reflect the day’s events. He is such a big brute of a brother, I give him three hugs, once for being a big brother to me, once for going to diner, and once more for being right about Trevor. My concerns lay with what the party does with thugs and brigands once they surrender or we subdue them. I reason with Brute that killing defenseless people will not allow them to explain their actions. He argues that if we don't kill them, they will just do their murdering again. However, we are not sure if the thugs were coerced into doing their actions, much like the ogre being controlled by witchcraft. Brute thinks this through and agrees to it, and agrees to talk to Kull as well. We also talk about Trevor and why Brute and Kull must protect me. Brute was fine if I liked Trevor, but not fine, if Trevor only wanted to make me like him. He states but not in that nice of a way, instead a bit more of a "brutish" sort of a way. I agree with Brute, in that I am not fine if Trevor makes me like him or if any man forces this upon me.
Trevor and I are at odds today and it has built over the past few days. The differences are with his leadership role of the group, and also with where the responsibilities lay with the children. And as the leader, he must guide the party to follow through with our intentions. We accompanied young Broderick back to his mansion, and promised to have him restored rightfully so. But we have returned twice and have done nothing with the court to have the ownership change.
The talk with Brute is good, talking about our differences make both of us aware of the other's concerns. I express my concern about Trevor, and his lack of noticing me at diner. Also, Trevor and I don't talk. If only he stated how elegant I was, in my nice evening dress earlier in the night, and talk about us. Why could he not say something? Brute suggested that Trevor was only a "business associate." I reluctantly agree.
I turn in for the night thinking of what might have been...
Entry 40
So much has happened this day. I find myself writing here, more and more, almost daily. A woman at death's door lies close by, as I nurse her back to good health. She is a victim of senseless destruction. And while we plan to search for more survivors in the villages attacked by goblins, Brute has a dilemma. I, however, made my decision to stay here to find out who did this act of cruelty. Let me explain how we rescue her, as it is by accident that we find her. This is the following day, on a Friday, from my previous entry.
In the morning, I wake refreshed and ready to deal with the challenges I will face. My first concern is the unfinished business. I hear voices of guards outside of the house. I peek to view through the shutters and see two men guarding the front door. There must be a reason they are here, but that one will be for a different time. Without waiting for the others to create more problems, I call a meeting of our group to tie the loose ends on the problems we already have.
My problem to handle is with my temple. And Kull and Brute want to take the children to the temple, for we found homes before for a group of children we already saved once. We all agree to this. I suggest for Trevor, with his amazing talents, to go to the court, and have the ownership of papers move to Broderick. Trevor thinks he should first find the reason why the family members were removed from the house, as maybe Broderick would be removed, too, using the same reason. Trevor suggests making a disguise and appearing as an uncle. This is Trevor taking charge, I like this, he is the leader. Next is the house. I want Boomtuck to clean the house under Uhm Uri's supervision. I also suggest that Trevor talk to the gnome about the mess he made. When I asked, the little one lies about doing the mess. I point out here in my journal, how Kull does not want me to lie, yet, the gnome, just lies so obviously, and no one tries to change that. Maybe I might have a word with Kull about that. And Trevor did not seek me out to make an apology about last night. No. That did not happen.
The children, with Brute, Kull and I walk to the temple. We make sure the children are safe. Kull shines in that moment, as much as any saint, when he bends down on a knee, and asks the children what they want. He continues to explain that we can not provide for them, and the children cannot stay with us. This is another moment, so unexpected with the group, Kull specifically. I feel the urge to embrace Kull, his action - so simple, but so correct. I later give that big brother type of hug. While we wait for the high priest to return, we discuss where we can find an armory. The naives overhear us, and suggest we follow them. They show us a place, a storage room, full of old weapons, from battles fought long ago. With a little encouragement from the Power of the Light, we find some items of exceptional qualities, and generously donate to the cause. I see a banner of a symbol from the temples long ago, when the Light and the Law were joined.
Once the High Priest returns to the temple, we conduct our meeting. The office has an odor of supreme cleanliness, like fresh incense fills the air. The priest appears as if his hair was trimmed a few minutes ago. He is dressed in his normal robes. Brute and Kull exchange glances and makes sure the priest does not see, then Kull seems upset about something and leaves to wait outside. I prepare to argue with the priest, having my support reasons, and to demand the temple to be open every day of the week, volunteering if I must. But he calms me in a second, explaining that many clerics are away to fight the goblins, and that the Law will have some Paladins check on the unopened days. I am relieved. It is almost like he read my mind, just total agreement. With the issue of the children and the temple concluded, the priest asks of my name. I state the truth, bracing for the consequences of my actions years ago - words travel fast. He mentions a brother I remember, it has been years ago since I saw him last. As we are leaving, he eludes to the reason of my departure, and the dreaded H word. I move to take my leave, and avoid another awkward moment, by ignoring the statement. This did bring back some unpleasant memories. When I left, I was never told the reason, or I didn't pay attention. I thought it had to do with my involvement with the sorcerers. I did not have a trial, or at least I was not present at it. I do know I did dedicate myself to the Faith, but that differs from the Order. For orders interpret the Faith differently where the teachings are unclear. I reference the Order of the Spirituals that believe in poverty. And they are persecuted because there are many in the temples that want to retain and get more wealth. And with wealth is power. I must be careful. I quickly leave without giving a look to Brute.
With our business done at the temple, we walk back and I move my thoughts from those years ago, to my new "business associates." I'm sure Trevor has made progress with his task, I remembered thinking, too. So we stop at the market for some new clothes, as I can not use my armor when practicing sorcery. After making sure the items fit well, and the colors are to my liking: a nice blue silken robe, cloak and green pants, Brute calls out to Kull to run. That is strange, almost like a battle cry. Brute does not move. I am startled by this, but with Brute not moving I continue to look at the wares. The strangeness: do they not want me to know or is it a guy thing? Brute gives the most strange conversations to Kull. But Brute is very kind to me; he carries all of my stuff and he gives the clerk a large tip.
I think about how I will wear these new clothes, and I wander to think about Trevor, again. I remember how interested he was with making the disguise, a new spark in him. In my sleep I mulled over it, it was just a passing thought. No, his action the night before, and no apology today, definitely says he is not interested. If I write it here often enough, it helps me get on with other things. I sure hope he thought of my actions as just business, too, for if I express any signs, he may take... No, I must not worry about that, he has no feelings for me what-so-ever, it is only my feelings I must cope with. I practically threw myself at him - nope I have nothing to worry about. Besides, it would never work out, for I am bound to my Faith, above all else. And I find we are far apart on more and more issues: like consistency and dedication, as I will explain soon.
With all of my busy thoughts, I hardly notice Brute saying we must take a detour, for Kull ran, and we must find him. We follow the path of many tired guards, for again, some strange reason they are chasing him. We follow the guards like breadcrumbs dropped in the forest to find a way back. Soon I am distracted by a most lovely tenor voice singing out a melody, accompanied by a rhythmic beat to a hammer and anvil. I slow my walk since the voice is familiar. With my eyes closed, I remove the visual distractions, and let my ears guide me. One can study the sounds while immersed in darkness better. I am swept off my heels as I listen. I move closer, I can here others gossip. It adds to the song. I open my eyes and see a group of women observing the massive hulk of Kull, bent over the anvil, shirtless, muscles flexing, ripe with sweat, glowing and reflecting the red hues of the hot coals from the forge. The girls, I can call them that, for they are enjoying the lust of their lives. But me, I see something else that they don't see. I see at first, a meticulous craftsman, taking iron ingots, and hammer shape and form, becoming a father of each creation. I look again, and see an honest and caring, gentile giant that is great with children. I also see an ideal that stands for his principles and a protector, but also an enforcer. I also see a darker man, a boy that grew old to quickly, fighting an internal struggle, one able of immense destruction. And for the first time, I see Kull, ready with voice to match any in the temple choir.
I want to tell him he has a great voice, I cannot remember if I did. I remember walking back to the mansion. Swimming in so many thoughts: of heresy, of new clothes, Trevor done with the court, finally the loose end tied, of the children cared for, new weapons, planning the next trip into goblin land. And how did Kull learn to sing so well? I try remembering the words to the tune, humming it over. The melody voice with the ping and the clack, then the hiss of the water on the hot metal - I cannot remember more, for I am snapped back to the house, Brute is talking to Kevin, who is now hysterical.
I take a few moments to adjust to the new scene. Kevin gives us gestures, his seriousness begs us to follow him to the basement quickly. His gestures also show that Trevor is in a cell, somehow this vaguely makes sense. Kevin leads us through a secret doorway behind a large fireplace in the study room. A dark passage follows, but after a little conjure of light, I can see steps leading up and down. Kevin points down and we wind down the stairs and find a cell, and this woman, which I mentioned at the beginning of this entry, is found chained inside of the cell. She is a victim of torture, and has recent wounds suggestive of a dark blood drinking ritual. Her wounds are not fresh, like made a week ago. Brute breaks the shackle from her neck and she is free. We remove the woman and place her near the kitchen, where I tended to her wounds. But my healing can not replace her tongue so she can speak, as she was silenced by her captives, too. I feel for her. How easily could it have been me. Most probably, she works in this house as a maid, and sees something, and then she is silenced in a very horrific manner.
We also check out the steps that go up, they lead up to a hexagonal room, with four mirrors, and each has a curtain covering them. Each mirror has a picture of a scene: a desert, a forest, a coast, and a cold ice plain. A wardrobe sits at the far side. At the bottom of the wardrobe are two boxes, a large box with a book of arcane magic, and a smaller empty box. We later find out that Trevor took four rings from the smaller box, that most likely control the four mirrors. Black ritual robes are inside of the wardrobe. Trevor's involvement I will describe next.
Once we are downstairs, Trevor returns to the house, bringing "...the images of shows, the wine is strong on his lips, tavern smoke is in his clothes, the dancing dwarven women, are reflected in his eyes, he just does not know how he looks, through my very own eyes..." (credit to the butthole surfers), and follows a heated discussion on where he was to go: the court, and where he obviously went: the basement, the attic and "out." I will keep the dwarven women bar scene out of this - strickly "business," from now on. What is his involvement with the secret rooms and the woman locked in the cell? Obviously, he did nothing to the woman, but why did he leave her there, and why did he go out for ...? Also, why was Kevin so upset with Trevor?
Neither do I want to defend his actions nor write an essay about his thoughts, but, I am writing the facts, and his statements, whether are true or false, must be included. He said that the business here took all day, and he was to go to the court after this was done. He thought the woman was a monster in the cell, and he did not want to risk opening the door, but he added that he risked his life for checking boxes, and found magic items. He waited for me, the cleric, to be there to dispel the monster. And when I show my frustration, he accuses me, of being slow and getting stuff at the market? But I, along with Brute and Kull, solved two matters, one with the children and the other with my temple.
The discussion continues, and with discretion, I do not write every word, for I say a few inappropriate words which I should not have - but I am furious. Still, I must apologize to him, for I am not being "business like." Am I more upset because he failed to let me know, one way or another, what he thought of me or because he risked his life for material items and not for another life? Before long, Brute steps in to quiet the discussion. In after thought, if it were a monster, having more in the party would be better. And his actions do discover this woman, who would have died had we not discover and free her. If I may be judgmental, he should have gone to the court first, like we agreed, and then return to the house, like I did with Brute and Kull, after finishing our respective businesses. Then we all could have explored the secret passage and have discovered the captive, together.
Back to the discussion, through some absurd aside, Ohm Uri walks right through our discussion, soaking wet, leaving puddles of river water where he steps. And to finish out the day, Meritie bursts in, who is still here, comments about how complicated it is to listen to us. She murmurs something about the temple, and she leaves us all. Trevor could have hooked up with that, since he has no interest in me, or is Trevor leaning... back to the matters at hand. With nothing more to say, in silence, I prepare to stay with the woman and will watch her, so she gets rest and in case she has any reactions or convulsions while resting. I begin to write and now, I am caught up with the day’s events.
To think of Trevor's actions, they are most difficult for me to accept. This, I alluded to earlier. He works secretively, usurps his own directives, makes bad or incorrect decisions, drinks every night, and forgets his duties. What was I thinking! We are worlds apart. It would only be of magic. Or is there strong witchcraft at work? This all started when we got to this house. Let me review my entries...
... Entry 34 mentions of how I recall that Trevor is amazing, something I try really hard to avoid. And this entry is after our first stay at the house, and after Trevor saw me sleep walking. This must all be witchcraft! These are not real feelings I have - I am sooo relieved. This house is affecting me, maybe all of us, is that the reason why the others were removed? Wait, Kevin is also a mute, too coincidental?
Entry 39 (continues)...
Because of the evening's awkward moments, I wait for Brute to come back, for I must talk and reflect the day’s events. He is such a big brute of a brother, I give him three hugs, once for being a big brother to me, once for going to diner, and once more for being right about Trevor. My concerns lay with what the party does with thugs and brigands once they surrender or we subdue them. I reason with Brute that killing defenseless people will not allow them to explain their actions. He argues that if we don't kill them, they will just do their murdering again. However, we are not sure if the thugs were coerced into doing their actions, much like the ogre being controlled by witchcraft. Brute thinks this through and agrees to it, and agrees to talk to Kull as well. We also talk about Trevor and why Brute and Kull must protect me. Brute was fine if I liked Trevor, but not fine, if Trevor only wanted to make me like him. He states but not in that nice of a way, instead a bit more of a "brutish" sort of a way. I agree with Brute, in that I am not fine if Trevor makes me like him or if any man forces this upon me.
Trevor and I are at odds today and it has built over the past few days. The differences are with his leadership role of the group, and also with where the responsibilities lay with the children. And as the leader, he must guide the party to follow through with our intentions. We accompanied young Broderick back to his mansion, and promised to have him restored rightfully so. But we have returned twice and have done nothing with the court to have the ownership change.
The talk with Brute is good, talking about our differences make both of us aware of the other's concerns. I express my concern about Trevor, and his lack of noticing me at diner. Also, Trevor and I don't talk. If only he stated how elegant I was, in my nice evening dress earlier in the night, and talk about us. Why could he not say something? Brute suggested that Trevor was only a "business associate." I reluctantly agree.
I turn in for the night thinking of what might have been...
Entry 40
So much has happened this day. I find myself writing here, more and more, almost daily. A woman at death's door lies close by, as I nurse her back to good health. She is a victim of senseless destruction. And while we plan to search for more survivors in the villages attacked by goblins, Brute has a dilemma. I, however, made my decision to stay here to find out who did this act of cruelty. Let me explain how we rescue her, as it is by accident that we find her. This is the following day, on a Friday, from my previous entry.
In the morning, I wake refreshed and ready to deal with the challenges I will face. My first concern is the unfinished business. I hear voices of guards outside of the house. I peek to view through the shutters and see two men guarding the front door. There must be a reason they are here, but that one will be for a different time. Without waiting for the others to create more problems, I call a meeting of our group to tie the loose ends on the problems we already have.
My problem to handle is with my temple. And Kull and Brute want to take the children to the temple, for we found homes before for a group of children we already saved once. We all agree to this. I suggest for Trevor, with his amazing talents, to go to the court, and have the ownership of papers move to Broderick. Trevor thinks he should first find the reason why the family members were removed from the house, as maybe Broderick would be removed, too, using the same reason. Trevor suggests making a disguise and appearing as an uncle. This is Trevor taking charge, I like this, he is the leader. Next is the house. I want Boomtuck to clean the house under Uhm Uri's supervision. I also suggest that Trevor talk to the gnome about the mess he made. When I asked, the little one lies about doing the mess. I point out here in my journal, how Kull does not want me to lie, yet, the gnome, just lies so obviously, and no one tries to change that. Maybe I might have a word with Kull about that. And Trevor did not seek me out to make an apology about last night. No. That did not happen.
The children, with Brute, Kull and I walk to the temple. We make sure the children are safe. Kull shines in that moment, as much as any saint, when he bends down on a knee, and asks the children what they want. He continues to explain that we can not provide for them, and the children cannot stay with us. This is another moment, so unexpected with the group, Kull specifically. I feel the urge to embrace Kull, his action - so simple, but so correct. I later give that big brother type of hug. While we wait for the high priest to return, we discuss where we can find an armory. The naives overhear us, and suggest we follow them. They show us a place, a storage room, full of old weapons, from battles fought long ago. With a little encouragement from the Power of the Light, we find some items of exceptional qualities, and generously donate to the cause. I see a banner of a symbol from the temples long ago, when the Light and the Law were joined.
Once the High Priest returns to the temple, we conduct our meeting. The office has an odor of supreme cleanliness, like fresh incense fills the air. The priest appears as if his hair was trimmed a few minutes ago. He is dressed in his normal robes. Brute and Kull exchange glances and makes sure the priest does not see, then Kull seems upset about something and leaves to wait outside. I prepare to argue with the priest, having my support reasons, and to demand the temple to be open every day of the week, volunteering if I must. But he calms me in a second, explaining that many clerics are away to fight the goblins, and that the Law will have some Paladins check on the unopened days. I am relieved. It is almost like he read my mind, just total agreement. With the issue of the children and the temple concluded, the priest asks of my name. I state the truth, bracing for the consequences of my actions years ago - words travel fast. He mentions a brother I remember, it has been years ago since I saw him last. As we are leaving, he eludes to the reason of my departure, and the dreaded H word. I move to take my leave, and avoid another awkward moment, by ignoring the statement. This did bring back some unpleasant memories. When I left, I was never told the reason, or I didn't pay attention. I thought it had to do with my involvement with the sorcerers. I did not have a trial, or at least I was not present at it. I do know I did dedicate myself to the Faith, but that differs from the Order. For orders interpret the Faith differently where the teachings are unclear. I reference the Order of the Spirituals that believe in poverty. And they are persecuted because there are many in the temples that want to retain and get more wealth. And with wealth is power. I must be careful. I quickly leave without giving a look to Brute.
With our business done at the temple, we walk back and I move my thoughts from those years ago, to my new "business associates." I'm sure Trevor has made progress with his task, I remembered thinking, too. So we stop at the market for some new clothes, as I can not use my armor when practicing sorcery. After making sure the items fit well, and the colors are to my liking: a nice blue silken robe, cloak and green pants, Brute calls out to Kull to run. That is strange, almost like a battle cry. Brute does not move. I am startled by this, but with Brute not moving I continue to look at the wares. The strangeness: do they not want me to know or is it a guy thing? Brute gives the most strange conversations to Kull. But Brute is very kind to me; he carries all of my stuff and he gives the clerk a large tip.
I think about how I will wear these new clothes, and I wander to think about Trevor, again. I remember how interested he was with making the disguise, a new spark in him. In my sleep I mulled over it, it was just a passing thought. No, his action the night before, and no apology today, definitely says he is not interested. If I write it here often enough, it helps me get on with other things. I sure hope he thought of my actions as just business, too, for if I express any signs, he may take... No, I must not worry about that, he has no feelings for me what-so-ever, it is only my feelings I must cope with. I practically threw myself at him - nope I have nothing to worry about. Besides, it would never work out, for I am bound to my Faith, above all else. And I find we are far apart on more and more issues: like consistency and dedication, as I will explain soon.
With all of my busy thoughts, I hardly notice Brute saying we must take a detour, for Kull ran, and we must find him. We follow the path of many tired guards, for again, some strange reason they are chasing him. We follow the guards like breadcrumbs dropped in the forest to find a way back. Soon I am distracted by a most lovely tenor voice singing out a melody, accompanied by a rhythmic beat to a hammer and anvil. I slow my walk since the voice is familiar. With my eyes closed, I remove the visual distractions, and let my ears guide me. One can study the sounds while immersed in darkness better. I am swept off my heels as I listen. I move closer, I can here others gossip. It adds to the song. I open my eyes and see a group of women observing the massive hulk of Kull, bent over the anvil, shirtless, muscles flexing, ripe with sweat, glowing and reflecting the red hues of the hot coals from the forge. The girls, I can call them that, for they are enjoying the lust of their lives. But me, I see something else that they don't see. I see at first, a meticulous craftsman, taking iron ingots, and hammer shape and form, becoming a father of each creation. I look again, and see an honest and caring, gentile giant that is great with children. I also see an ideal that stands for his principles and a protector, but also an enforcer. I also see a darker man, a boy that grew old to quickly, fighting an internal struggle, one able of immense destruction. And for the first time, I see Kull, ready with voice to match any in the temple choir.
I want to tell him he has a great voice, I cannot remember if I did. I remember walking back to the mansion. Swimming in so many thoughts: of heresy, of new clothes, Trevor done with the court, finally the loose end tied, of the children cared for, new weapons, planning the next trip into goblin land. And how did Kull learn to sing so well? I try remembering the words to the tune, humming it over. The melody voice with the ping and the clack, then the hiss of the water on the hot metal - I cannot remember more, for I am snapped back to the house, Brute is talking to Kevin, who is now hysterical.
I take a few moments to adjust to the new scene. Kevin gives us gestures, his seriousness begs us to follow him to the basement quickly. His gestures also show that Trevor is in a cell, somehow this vaguely makes sense. Kevin leads us through a secret doorway behind a large fireplace in the study room. A dark passage follows, but after a little conjure of light, I can see steps leading up and down. Kevin points down and we wind down the stairs and find a cell, and this woman, which I mentioned at the beginning of this entry, is found chained inside of the cell. She is a victim of torture, and has recent wounds suggestive of a dark blood drinking ritual. Her wounds are not fresh, like made a week ago. Brute breaks the shackle from her neck and she is free. We remove the woman and place her near the kitchen, where I tended to her wounds. But my healing can not replace her tongue so she can speak, as she was silenced by her captives, too. I feel for her. How easily could it have been me. Most probably, she works in this house as a maid, and sees something, and then she is silenced in a very horrific manner.
We also check out the steps that go up, they lead up to a hexagonal room, with four mirrors, and each has a curtain covering them. Each mirror has a picture of a scene: a desert, a forest, a coast, and a cold ice plain. A wardrobe sits at the far side. At the bottom of the wardrobe are two boxes, a large box with a book of arcane magic, and a smaller empty box. We later find out that Trevor took four rings from the smaller box, that most likely control the four mirrors. Black ritual robes are inside of the wardrobe. Trevor's involvement I will describe next.
Once we are downstairs, Trevor returns to the house, bringing "...the images of shows, the wine is strong on his lips, tavern smoke is in his clothes, the dancing dwarven women, are reflected in his eyes, he just does not know how he looks, through my very own eyes..." (credit to the butthole surfers), and follows a heated discussion on where he was to go: the court, and where he obviously went: the basement, the attic and "out." I will keep the dwarven women bar scene out of this - strickly "business," from now on. What is his involvement with the secret rooms and the woman locked in the cell? Obviously, he did nothing to the woman, but why did he leave her there, and why did he go out for ...? Also, why was Kevin so upset with Trevor?
Neither do I want to defend his actions nor write an essay about his thoughts, but, I am writing the facts, and his statements, whether are true or false, must be included. He said that the business here took all day, and he was to go to the court after this was done. He thought the woman was a monster in the cell, and he did not want to risk opening the door, but he added that he risked his life for checking boxes, and found magic items. He waited for me, the cleric, to be there to dispel the monster. And when I show my frustration, he accuses me, of being slow and getting stuff at the market? But I, along with Brute and Kull, solved two matters, one with the children and the other with my temple.
The discussion continues, and with discretion, I do not write every word, for I say a few inappropriate words which I should not have - but I am furious. Still, I must apologize to him, for I am not being "business like." Am I more upset because he failed to let me know, one way or another, what he thought of me or because he risked his life for material items and not for another life? Before long, Brute steps in to quiet the discussion. In after thought, if it were a monster, having more in the party would be better. And his actions do discover this woman, who would have died had we not discover and free her. If I may be judgmental, he should have gone to the court first, like we agreed, and then return to the house, like I did with Brute and Kull, after finishing our respective businesses. Then we all could have explored the secret passage and have discovered the captive, together.
Back to the discussion, through some absurd aside, Ohm Uri walks right through our discussion, soaking wet, leaving puddles of river water where he steps. And to finish out the day, Meritie bursts in, who is still here, comments about how complicated it is to listen to us. She murmurs something about the temple, and she leaves us all. Trevor could have hooked up with that, since he has no interest in me, or is Trevor leaning... back to the matters at hand. With nothing more to say, in silence, I prepare to stay with the woman and will watch her, so she gets rest and in case she has any reactions or convulsions while resting. I begin to write and now, I am caught up with the day’s events.
To think of Trevor's actions, they are most difficult for me to accept. This, I alluded to earlier. He works secretively, usurps his own directives, makes bad or incorrect decisions, drinks every night, and forgets his duties. What was I thinking! We are worlds apart. It would only be of magic. Or is there strong witchcraft at work? This all started when we got to this house. Let me review my entries...
... Entry 34 mentions of how I recall that Trevor is amazing, something I try really hard to avoid. And this entry is after our first stay at the house, and after Trevor saw me sleep walking. This must all be witchcraft! These are not real feelings I have - I am sooo relieved. This house is affecting me, maybe all of us, is that the reason why the others were removed? Wait, Kevin is also a mute, too coincidental?
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Kickstarter Updates: Ponies and 6d6
Both my current Kickstarter obsessions are still going strong: 6d6 and Ponies for Pathfinder. Both of these projects have done a terrific job of sending out updates, providing sneak peaks at material, and providing opportunities to vote on stuff--even at a fairly basic level. 6d6 has several free 'zines on RPGNOW and backers have access to drafts of products. As of right now I fully expect that both will be successful projects. Now if I could just get 6d6 to do a ponies setting...hmm.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
The Dwarven Rearguard
Andrew over at Fictive Fantasies just posted a really cool adventure generator for dwarves traveling old dwarven roads called "The Road Home". It's a great adventure generator and could even be played as a solo adventure.
As soon as I started reading it I remembered a really cool wargame idea from The Courier wargaming magazine (1993) called The Happy Little Rearguard by Jim Birdseye. Roughly the idea is that you run a group of random stragglers from Napoleon's army retreating from Russia. The board has a road running down the middle of it and your little band is in the middle. The scenery is moved by on either side to simulate the group moving forward. Each turn you randomly determine what scenery comes up next on each side and what random encounters happen. To win you need to get some minimum number of your guys to travel X amount of road to catch up with the main force. The keys are surviving fights, adding other stragglers as reinforcements, scavenging supplies (it's winter), and keeping morale up.
So...I was thinking that this game concept could mesh with Andrew's "dwarven road trip" game quite nicely. To keep with the original theme, the dwarves would battered survivors fleeing the recent destruction of their home fortress and trying to make it through a winter landscape crawling with roving enemies, monsters, and fellow refugees. They have a small cart pulled by strong draft ram with treasures and belongings, but no supplies (well, except the beer) and need to travel at least a week to safety.
So to Andrew's game I'd add these morale encounters, one per section of road (1d12):
As soon as I started reading it I remembered a really cool wargame idea from The Courier wargaming magazine (1993) called The Happy Little Rearguard by Jim Birdseye. Roughly the idea is that you run a group of random stragglers from Napoleon's army retreating from Russia. The board has a road running down the middle of it and your little band is in the middle. The scenery is moved by on either side to simulate the group moving forward. Each turn you randomly determine what scenery comes up next on each side and what random encounters happen. To win you need to get some minimum number of your guys to travel X amount of road to catch up with the main force. The keys are surviving fights, adding other stragglers as reinforcements, scavenging supplies (it's winter), and keeping morale up.
So...I was thinking that this game concept could mesh with Andrew's "dwarven road trip" game quite nicely. To keep with the original theme, the dwarves would battered survivors fleeing the recent destruction of their home fortress and trying to make it through a winter landscape crawling with roving enemies, monsters, and fellow refugees. They have a small cart pulled by strong draft ram with treasures and belongings, but no supplies (well, except the beer) and need to travel at least a week to safety.
So to Andrew's game I'd add these morale encounters, one per section of road (1d12):
- Beer keg leaked overnight: THERE'S NO BEER LEFT!!! (negative morale check)
- Small chest in road, probably fell off a cart, smashed open with coins spilled out (1d4 x 100 GP; positive morale check)
- Dying dwarf, riddled with arrows; 0 HP and just barely conscious; they have 1d4 turns to stabilize/heal or dies (negative morale check)
- Dwarf deserter comes out of hiding in rocks by side of road, claims he got separated in the dark, still wearing the clan guard tabard which is suspiciously clean (CN coward); fighter, with crossbow (full quiver of 20 bolts) and handaxe
- Abandoned cart, empty but in good condition; draft ram dead in the traces with enemy arrow in neck
- Spot cache of supplies in bushes by side of road, traditionally stashed by dwarf rangers for travelers; 1d6 person/days worth (positive morale check)
- Beheaded dwarf wearing royal messenger tabard of the fortress the group is heading towards; scroll case tossed nearby has official letter saying that the other fortress is under siege and asking the group's fortress for reinforcements (negative morale check)
- Draft ram pulling your cart steps on a thorn and gets a limp; half speed if not healed
- Sheets of ice: half speed unless they can think of something clever
- Sheets of ice: half speed unless they can think of something clever
- Pile of dead, stripped, gutted dwarves, clearly the members of an extended family, old and young alike (negative morale check)
- Pile of dead, stripped, gutted dwarves, clearly the members of an extended family, old and young alike (negative morale check)
- Shaken
- Frightened
- Panicked
- Confused
Sunday, October 6, 2013
The Journal of Katherine, Entries 35 to 39
This set of entries from the journal of the young cleric Katherine, as penned by the indomitable Kirk, brings her story up to the same point, chronologically, as that of the Chronicles of the Amazing Trevor.
Entry 35
I told them all. I am so relieved! It went well. I told them I ran away. I told them that I lied to the monks. I told them of the sorcerer Keith and his mentor. I told them of how I fell for him - and his magic. And I told them I was a lady of the Power of Light, traveling in disguise for safety and as a punishment. Done! I had to know that I would be safe; that I could trust them.
Karl was upset - in that I shouldn't lie again. Brute was upset about my treatment there. Brute also wanted to know why I ran away. That was a topic for another night, for the reason is complicated. Ohm Uri fainted. I stated that I was willing to leave the party, because I was not truthful with them, but they wanted me to stay. Maybe these are my new friends and family? I will always be truthful from now on; it is much easier this way. A fresh start, a new beginning, now is the time for me to work hard and earn their trust in me. I also told them that I learned some songs by the sorcerer. I wanted to make sure there would be no more surprises from me. I must explore that secret room in the house. I want to see if any books can help me learn more of White Sorcery. Back to the travels: we went north to find the tracks. We settled into a mindless trance, some days are worse than others, each one of us doing what is natural and expected: Brute - bent on destroying goblins. Karl - doing his workouts every night. Boomtuck - so money hungry, his illusions are spilling out of his head now. Trevor - wishing he was back in the city. Ohm Uri - quietly observing. And me - left to do all the rest, maybe because they think my place is the kitchen. Well, it seems like that. I lost track of how many days. Nothing much, but the road again.
We came to a burning village, filled with more horrors of war. I saw bodies tied up, tortured and killed. I immediately set about to prepare them for a proper funeral. Karl helped me, and the others went to explore. Soon, we heard battle cries and we started after them. On our way, we were ambushed by four goblins, two in front and two behind us. I turned and prepared for their charge, for Karl was well in front. The Power of Light held strong my shield, for one goblin's spear broke, and the other I blocked. I swung and connected a hard blow on a goblin, and its skull cracked under the weight of my hammer. Furry rose as I realized these hideous creatures were responsible for the torture and deaths of these villagers. Brute was right next to me in an instant, and felled the other goblin. The two in front of Karl turned and ran and then hid, but Karl just broke the hiding places and crushed them within. But still battle was raging. We continued to follow the sounds, and came across Trevor and Ohm Uri and soon the last goblin was dead. I healed our injured from the battles. My thoughts turned to the children, so I urged all of us to spend little time in the village, and resume the trail.
The tracks lead west, towards the trees and into the woods. We pressed on until we came to a camp. When we searched, Karl found an arrow head - the kind that rangers would use. This is a good sign.
Entry 36
We found Merity and the children. They were safe in a cave, I am now with them writing and answering their many questions. I am the same age as some of them, or maybe a year or two older. Seeing the trauma and strain in their eyes, I can tell they grow up fast in conditions like this - much like I grew up fast, under a different set of circumstances. The cave is home to a ranger, a girl, about as old as me, much stronger, but dirty, or should I write filthy, fighting for what she believes.
Let me back up for I skipped many details. It was morning, after we broke camp; Brute was following the trail leading through the woods. We passed in the woods in the late afternoon when the temperatures get hot, but here, the temperature feels cooler in the cover of shade. The trail went close to the clearings, but stayed out of site. Merity saw the same farm houses through the trees that we saw; only we saw burnt frames of ghostly reminders of the goblin's raid. I can only imaging the terror she and the children felt, as they were walking then, looking out at these very same houses, possibly with the goblins attacking, and they just huddled to remain unseen.
We came to a campfire where evidence showed the two groups of children were here together. This was the spot where they separated because of the wolf attack. Brute found the tracks leading towards the west. "This was not good," Brute said and he mentioned that Orcs live there."
We settled in to make camp, and in the middle of the night, we were awakened by Orcs attacking. They did not last long. In the battle, an unknown arrow sails into the last one alive. This arrow was from the young ranger, named Faylen, I mentioned earlier. Faylen led us to the cave where we are now. I was grateful that she held the children safe. I think she was more grateful they were coming with us. Half of them are now sleeping. Trevor dozed off first, and mumbled something about a mirror in his sleep. There is a different view of Trevor I see in the cave, how the firelight dances on his features. The others were hard on him, for not telling of my secret sooner, but he was doing it for me. That was thoughtful. Young Merity was there, and I watched closely how Trevor was with her. He treated her with respect. I approved. What am I thinking, how can I have any time for a relationship, when I've devoted my life to the Power of Light? But Trevor looks cute on the fur, almost comical with the way he tries to keep his clothes from getting dirty. The trip back to the city should be easy, but long with the children. Let us see how Trevor handles the children.
Entry 37
Back in Aden, the city, our first stop was to tend to the children. We promptly took them to the Temple of Light. A different priest we talked to now but, we left the children in good hands. We will check up on them in the morning. A short word about the trip back: I had suggested that Trevor sing a song for the children to make the time pass faster, but he would have none of that. Instead, I sang to Ohm Uri's playing. The music lifted the children's hearts. I gave encouraging words of comfort, retelling some stories I learned, and showed a joyful smile of infinite hope. Trevor was cold and frowning. On another night, I tried again to warm Trevor to the children; still he was cold, even stating that children are never to be around and in shows, or the like.
One last attempt to lighten Trevor's heart, I tried my old songs of sorcery that I learned years ago. I found out that my armor makes it near impossible to work these songs. After removing it, I showed the "Whisper: Softly on the Breeze," as I call it. This sends a message on the air, as I whisper to someone far away, but still within sight. To my amazement, Trevor heard my words! I had remembered it all this time! Keith and I would use that many times to plan late night meetings - we would talk about the far away places he traveled, and just show me so much magic. Somehow, he was able to alter the songs. He truly had mastery over it. Next I tried the "Sorcerer's Palm Push." This can move small objects without touching them, just by concentrating and with the right gestures. I tried it on a rock, but Boomtuck wanted to interfere. So, I used it to lift Boomtuck's dagger from its sheath. That was a surprise! The children and I laughed at that. It was nice to hear the children laugh, after all they were through.
I had persuaded Trevor to open the secret door, in exchange for a promise to have a glass of wine in his company. Once in the room, I found a nice book on arcane fire. I'll read this after the wine and food. Trevor also found something of interest.
Entry 38
Boomtuck, that gnome made a mess in the house. It was good that he did not go to dinner, as I had stated rather forcibly that he not go with us. However, his mess does not even compare to the mess that Trevor made this evening. Let me back up to before dinner...
Trevor thought going out for food would be best. So I wanted to get more comfortable, instead of this chain mail. I must really get a better suit, since I do not require this disguise anymore. I thought about Trevor. I agreed to just a drink, yet we are now going "out." He has been good to me. He did keep my secret when I asked of him. He has been close to me in battle, and was able to come to my help, when it seemed like I was in trouble. Could he have a fancy for me? Would he think of this as a "date?" Date or no date, I had to be presentable. I put on my formal white evening dress, and tied my sandals on my narrow feet. Letting out my long braided light-brown hair, the curls fell naturally over my fair shoulders. I haven't felt like this in a long time, but I knew Brute was near and I am much more confident in myself. Brute has become like a protective older brother. I went down stairs, Brute saw me with my hair let down, and a striking evening dress on my slender frame. He only shook his head sideways and rolled his eyes. I did not see the events that were coming this evening like Brute did, and he was able to see through Trevor.
We continued to wait for Trevor in silence. Then he appeared and well, appeared amazingly. He dressed in a scarlet red tunic, gold trimming on his outfit, his hair almost blowing in a non existent wind. A man of this talent and statue will make a fine lady proud some day. I wanting to say something, but I waited for him to say first. But did he? No. No remark of me or how I am dressed. He did speak, but only about food. Did he think I was fat or ugly, or not his type? This was just the first of many awkward moments this evening.
The inn was called the Boars Head. The three of us sat at a place where Trevor wanted a quick exit. Why, the reason will be along soon. Instead of talking about me or him, he was fixed on the smell of good food. After dinner was served, Trevor was annoyed by a rather vocal woman, with vast tracks of land, I can add. Trevor did not want the attention of that woman, and I saw that same look before, the look of avoidance. Then the woman remembered.
She invited herself to eat at our table right between me and Trevor, putting her back to me! That was so rude! Losing track of what they talked about, I was no match for that bosom of hers, for Trevor seemed fixated upon it. I thought Trevor was better than that. My pale green eyes seemed to pierce a cold wind, compared to her wide warm eyes with obviously fake eyelashes. My thin arms didn't have the massive soft texture of hers, the kind that show wealth. Then I was snapped back to the inn when I heard Trevor discounting me as just a business associate! That hurt! He must not have any feelings for me. How could I think of this as a "date?" Brute was quiet through all of this, but I can only imaging him telling me "I told you so." I was beginning to loose it. Brute must have seen me as a vengeful angel, for I was ready to strike like Karl in a blind rage, but again, Brute had that look about him that states "don't make a scene, finish and leave quietly." I recalled the breathing techniques that calm and relax, I slowly realize I am less stiff and the anger left. Then I hear this same woman telling the entire bar, that, Trevor never showed after he promised to meet her. This was a different Trevor that I knew. Was this true? I looked at Trevor, and he was caught in her trap. He did not look at me. If he made a promise, he had to keep it. I could not accept this. I do not mind who he saw, for I have my own past too, but, he should be sincere and keep his promises. My next memory was back at the mansion, I was swimming in thoughts, trying to put the pieces together. Maybe Brute had some words for Trevor (only of what a big brother would say), after I retired to my room, alone. I wrote the events, for good or ill, here in my journal. Did I discover the real Trevor without all of the illusions? I let down my guard with Trevor. With Keith, it was just so much more fun, musical, and magical.
Enough of this fantasy, I must be onto real work. The evening wasn't a total waste, I did get the book. And let me write of it. It mentioned a few elementary magics, but got cryptic early. It would take a while to learn of these runes...the book is too difficult. It decided I am not ready. But worse still, is this room. It is calling to me. The mirror. Let me find Trevor and Brute...
Entry 39
Instead I found Ohm Uri and he brought disturbing news that the children were missing from the Temple, the very same children that we dropped off there. He showed a bag of shackles he found. This was bad news, indeed. What happened to the priests at the temple? Were they killed? I rushed out of the house, not wasting time to get my armor, but only in my evening dress - the same that I wore to dinner on this ill fated night - and I asked that Brute be ready in the courtyard and all to head to the temple.
When we arrived, Brute started tracking the children's movements to the wharf. The priest at the temple stated that it is closed on certain days. I made a mental note to review this with the high priest in the morning. Meeting up at the wharf, the barge with the children was easily spotted. I had almost fallen into the water, if it were not for Boomtuck. He summoned colored lights which illuminated how close to the edge of the dock I was. I gave him a wink that I was grateful for his actions - maybe the small things matter the most with Boomtuck. The slavers were hiding the children in barrels. Ohm Uri and Karl were first on the boat. Karl lost control when he noticed the two slavers, and blindly swung his weapons and appeared like a wall of whirling blades. We had to get the children out of the boat, for Karl's rage threatened their safety. The rest of us did just that. Not realizing how many children were still in the boat, I tried the "Whisper: Softly on the Breeze," to get Karl to stop. However, only Karl knows what he heard in his head, but I must have reached him, for he did stop. Ohm Uri pulled the slaver free from Karl's view and bound him.
Once the children were calm, due to another nicely timed conjuration from Boomtuck, we decided where they should go. I succeeded in arguing against Trevor. He insisted the children were noisy, a burden, and a number of other names I will not write here. He did not want the children to stay at Broderick's house, but I could not trust anyone to take the children.
In the morning, we will deliver the slaver to justice and be used to further expose anyone else involved in the enslaving. And the temple should have priests living there, to minimize this type of ruse.
When we arrived at the mansion, I wanted to have Ohm Uri and Trevor watch me as I get my things from the room. That room has strange witch craft powers. I cannot stay in that room. But, the same mirror that was calling out to me, the same mirror that I covered, the same mirror that lead me to the secret room, the same mirror that Trevor mentioned in his dream - that same mirror, Trevor was now staring into...
Entry 35
I told them all. I am so relieved! It went well. I told them I ran away. I told them that I lied to the monks. I told them of the sorcerer Keith and his mentor. I told them of how I fell for him - and his magic. And I told them I was a lady of the Power of Light, traveling in disguise for safety and as a punishment. Done! I had to know that I would be safe; that I could trust them.
Karl was upset - in that I shouldn't lie again. Brute was upset about my treatment there. Brute also wanted to know why I ran away. That was a topic for another night, for the reason is complicated. Ohm Uri fainted. I stated that I was willing to leave the party, because I was not truthful with them, but they wanted me to stay. Maybe these are my new friends and family? I will always be truthful from now on; it is much easier this way. A fresh start, a new beginning, now is the time for me to work hard and earn their trust in me. I also told them that I learned some songs by the sorcerer. I wanted to make sure there would be no more surprises from me. I must explore that secret room in the house. I want to see if any books can help me learn more of White Sorcery. Back to the travels: we went north to find the tracks. We settled into a mindless trance, some days are worse than others, each one of us doing what is natural and expected: Brute - bent on destroying goblins. Karl - doing his workouts every night. Boomtuck - so money hungry, his illusions are spilling out of his head now. Trevor - wishing he was back in the city. Ohm Uri - quietly observing. And me - left to do all the rest, maybe because they think my place is the kitchen. Well, it seems like that. I lost track of how many days. Nothing much, but the road again.
We came to a burning village, filled with more horrors of war. I saw bodies tied up, tortured and killed. I immediately set about to prepare them for a proper funeral. Karl helped me, and the others went to explore. Soon, we heard battle cries and we started after them. On our way, we were ambushed by four goblins, two in front and two behind us. I turned and prepared for their charge, for Karl was well in front. The Power of Light held strong my shield, for one goblin's spear broke, and the other I blocked. I swung and connected a hard blow on a goblin, and its skull cracked under the weight of my hammer. Furry rose as I realized these hideous creatures were responsible for the torture and deaths of these villagers. Brute was right next to me in an instant, and felled the other goblin. The two in front of Karl turned and ran and then hid, but Karl just broke the hiding places and crushed them within. But still battle was raging. We continued to follow the sounds, and came across Trevor and Ohm Uri and soon the last goblin was dead. I healed our injured from the battles. My thoughts turned to the children, so I urged all of us to spend little time in the village, and resume the trail.
The tracks lead west, towards the trees and into the woods. We pressed on until we came to a camp. When we searched, Karl found an arrow head - the kind that rangers would use. This is a good sign.
Entry 36
We found Merity and the children. They were safe in a cave, I am now with them writing and answering their many questions. I am the same age as some of them, or maybe a year or two older. Seeing the trauma and strain in their eyes, I can tell they grow up fast in conditions like this - much like I grew up fast, under a different set of circumstances. The cave is home to a ranger, a girl, about as old as me, much stronger, but dirty, or should I write filthy, fighting for what she believes.
Let me back up for I skipped many details. It was morning, after we broke camp; Brute was following the trail leading through the woods. We passed in the woods in the late afternoon when the temperatures get hot, but here, the temperature feels cooler in the cover of shade. The trail went close to the clearings, but stayed out of site. Merity saw the same farm houses through the trees that we saw; only we saw burnt frames of ghostly reminders of the goblin's raid. I can only imaging the terror she and the children felt, as they were walking then, looking out at these very same houses, possibly with the goblins attacking, and they just huddled to remain unseen.
We came to a campfire where evidence showed the two groups of children were here together. This was the spot where they separated because of the wolf attack. Brute found the tracks leading towards the west. "This was not good," Brute said and he mentioned that Orcs live there."
We settled in to make camp, and in the middle of the night, we were awakened by Orcs attacking. They did not last long. In the battle, an unknown arrow sails into the last one alive. This arrow was from the young ranger, named Faylen, I mentioned earlier. Faylen led us to the cave where we are now. I was grateful that she held the children safe. I think she was more grateful they were coming with us. Half of them are now sleeping. Trevor dozed off first, and mumbled something about a mirror in his sleep. There is a different view of Trevor I see in the cave, how the firelight dances on his features. The others were hard on him, for not telling of my secret sooner, but he was doing it for me. That was thoughtful. Young Merity was there, and I watched closely how Trevor was with her. He treated her with respect. I approved. What am I thinking, how can I have any time for a relationship, when I've devoted my life to the Power of Light? But Trevor looks cute on the fur, almost comical with the way he tries to keep his clothes from getting dirty. The trip back to the city should be easy, but long with the children. Let us see how Trevor handles the children.
Entry 37
Back in Aden, the city, our first stop was to tend to the children. We promptly took them to the Temple of Light. A different priest we talked to now but, we left the children in good hands. We will check up on them in the morning. A short word about the trip back: I had suggested that Trevor sing a song for the children to make the time pass faster, but he would have none of that. Instead, I sang to Ohm Uri's playing. The music lifted the children's hearts. I gave encouraging words of comfort, retelling some stories I learned, and showed a joyful smile of infinite hope. Trevor was cold and frowning. On another night, I tried again to warm Trevor to the children; still he was cold, even stating that children are never to be around and in shows, or the like.
One last attempt to lighten Trevor's heart, I tried my old songs of sorcery that I learned years ago. I found out that my armor makes it near impossible to work these songs. After removing it, I showed the "Whisper: Softly on the Breeze," as I call it. This sends a message on the air, as I whisper to someone far away, but still within sight. To my amazement, Trevor heard my words! I had remembered it all this time! Keith and I would use that many times to plan late night meetings - we would talk about the far away places he traveled, and just show me so much magic. Somehow, he was able to alter the songs. He truly had mastery over it. Next I tried the "Sorcerer's Palm Push." This can move small objects without touching them, just by concentrating and with the right gestures. I tried it on a rock, but Boomtuck wanted to interfere. So, I used it to lift Boomtuck's dagger from its sheath. That was a surprise! The children and I laughed at that. It was nice to hear the children laugh, after all they were through.
I had persuaded Trevor to open the secret door, in exchange for a promise to have a glass of wine in his company. Once in the room, I found a nice book on arcane fire. I'll read this after the wine and food. Trevor also found something of interest.
Entry 38
Boomtuck, that gnome made a mess in the house. It was good that he did not go to dinner, as I had stated rather forcibly that he not go with us. However, his mess does not even compare to the mess that Trevor made this evening. Let me back up to before dinner...
Trevor thought going out for food would be best. So I wanted to get more comfortable, instead of this chain mail. I must really get a better suit, since I do not require this disguise anymore. I thought about Trevor. I agreed to just a drink, yet we are now going "out." He has been good to me. He did keep my secret when I asked of him. He has been close to me in battle, and was able to come to my help, when it seemed like I was in trouble. Could he have a fancy for me? Would he think of this as a "date?" Date or no date, I had to be presentable. I put on my formal white evening dress, and tied my sandals on my narrow feet. Letting out my long braided light-brown hair, the curls fell naturally over my fair shoulders. I haven't felt like this in a long time, but I knew Brute was near and I am much more confident in myself. Brute has become like a protective older brother. I went down stairs, Brute saw me with my hair let down, and a striking evening dress on my slender frame. He only shook his head sideways and rolled his eyes. I did not see the events that were coming this evening like Brute did, and he was able to see through Trevor.
We continued to wait for Trevor in silence. Then he appeared and well, appeared amazingly. He dressed in a scarlet red tunic, gold trimming on his outfit, his hair almost blowing in a non existent wind. A man of this talent and statue will make a fine lady proud some day. I wanting to say something, but I waited for him to say first. But did he? No. No remark of me or how I am dressed. He did speak, but only about food. Did he think I was fat or ugly, or not his type? This was just the first of many awkward moments this evening.
The inn was called the Boars Head. The three of us sat at a place where Trevor wanted a quick exit. Why, the reason will be along soon. Instead of talking about me or him, he was fixed on the smell of good food. After dinner was served, Trevor was annoyed by a rather vocal woman, with vast tracks of land, I can add. Trevor did not want the attention of that woman, and I saw that same look before, the look of avoidance. Then the woman remembered.
She invited herself to eat at our table right between me and Trevor, putting her back to me! That was so rude! Losing track of what they talked about, I was no match for that bosom of hers, for Trevor seemed fixated upon it. I thought Trevor was better than that. My pale green eyes seemed to pierce a cold wind, compared to her wide warm eyes with obviously fake eyelashes. My thin arms didn't have the massive soft texture of hers, the kind that show wealth. Then I was snapped back to the inn when I heard Trevor discounting me as just a business associate! That hurt! He must not have any feelings for me. How could I think of this as a "date?" Brute was quiet through all of this, but I can only imaging him telling me "I told you so." I was beginning to loose it. Brute must have seen me as a vengeful angel, for I was ready to strike like Karl in a blind rage, but again, Brute had that look about him that states "don't make a scene, finish and leave quietly." I recalled the breathing techniques that calm and relax, I slowly realize I am less stiff and the anger left. Then I hear this same woman telling the entire bar, that, Trevor never showed after he promised to meet her. This was a different Trevor that I knew. Was this true? I looked at Trevor, and he was caught in her trap. He did not look at me. If he made a promise, he had to keep it. I could not accept this. I do not mind who he saw, for I have my own past too, but, he should be sincere and keep his promises. My next memory was back at the mansion, I was swimming in thoughts, trying to put the pieces together. Maybe Brute had some words for Trevor (only of what a big brother would say), after I retired to my room, alone. I wrote the events, for good or ill, here in my journal. Did I discover the real Trevor without all of the illusions? I let down my guard with Trevor. With Keith, it was just so much more fun, musical, and magical.
Enough of this fantasy, I must be onto real work. The evening wasn't a total waste, I did get the book. And let me write of it. It mentioned a few elementary magics, but got cryptic early. It would take a while to learn of these runes...the book is too difficult. It decided I am not ready. But worse still, is this room. It is calling to me. The mirror. Let me find Trevor and Brute...
Entry 39
Instead I found Ohm Uri and he brought disturbing news that the children were missing from the Temple, the very same children that we dropped off there. He showed a bag of shackles he found. This was bad news, indeed. What happened to the priests at the temple? Were they killed? I rushed out of the house, not wasting time to get my armor, but only in my evening dress - the same that I wore to dinner on this ill fated night - and I asked that Brute be ready in the courtyard and all to head to the temple.
When we arrived, Brute started tracking the children's movements to the wharf. The priest at the temple stated that it is closed on certain days. I made a mental note to review this with the high priest in the morning. Meeting up at the wharf, the barge with the children was easily spotted. I had almost fallen into the water, if it were not for Boomtuck. He summoned colored lights which illuminated how close to the edge of the dock I was. I gave him a wink that I was grateful for his actions - maybe the small things matter the most with Boomtuck. The slavers were hiding the children in barrels. Ohm Uri and Karl were first on the boat. Karl lost control when he noticed the two slavers, and blindly swung his weapons and appeared like a wall of whirling blades. We had to get the children out of the boat, for Karl's rage threatened their safety. The rest of us did just that. Not realizing how many children were still in the boat, I tried the "Whisper: Softly on the Breeze," to get Karl to stop. However, only Karl knows what he heard in his head, but I must have reached him, for he did stop. Ohm Uri pulled the slaver free from Karl's view and bound him.
Once the children were calm, due to another nicely timed conjuration from Boomtuck, we decided where they should go. I succeeded in arguing against Trevor. He insisted the children were noisy, a burden, and a number of other names I will not write here. He did not want the children to stay at Broderick's house, but I could not trust anyone to take the children.
In the morning, we will deliver the slaver to justice and be used to further expose anyone else involved in the enslaving. And the temple should have priests living there, to minimize this type of ruse.
When we arrived at the mansion, I wanted to have Ohm Uri and Trevor watch me as I get my things from the room. That room has strange witch craft powers. I cannot stay in that room. But, the same mirror that was calling out to me, the same mirror that I covered, the same mirror that lead me to the secret room, the same mirror that Trevor mentioned in his dream - that same mirror, Trevor was now staring into...
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