Arty Fox

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: N/A Location: The Inn Action: Chatting and yawning Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 3/5

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Overall BlackBerry was, to say the least, taken back by the sheer hatred Lady Kathryn radiated in what he hoped was a moment of weakness and a lapse in judgement. Staring up into the imposing woman's face, contorted with drunken rage, he wondered if had been a little bit rash in dumping the ale. A pale hand belonging to Kosara slapped away the expression with a cheerful burst of light as the Lesser Restoration spell worked its magic on the knight and quite possibly saved BlackBerry’s life.

Composing himself, BlackBerry scowled up at the shamed knight as she apologised for her behaviour with her voice full of remorse and no longer slurring as it had just moments ago. Kosaras Lesser Restoration spell had clearly been as effective as it was dramatic.

“Well that certainly did the trick I must say.” The comment slipped out as Lady Kathryn passed. He then said to Kosara, still hanging on to Lady Kathryn as if she were a starving dog and Lady Kathryn a very tasty bone. “Comfy up there?”

He let go of his anger, mostly formed from secondhand embarrassment and a wish to put forward a good impression for their hosts. If they were to be here for a whole season he didn’t wish to cause any upset lest they be turned away and into the winter season. The idea of trying to traverse the roads filled with snow and the dark evenings of the oncoming winter did not appeal to him in the slightest. Heaving a sigh he followed after the shamed knight as she traipsed her way through her remorse, with a detour to get another drink he noted with disapproving raise of an eyebrow and click of his tongue.

“Lady Kathryn, you need not torment yourself so. There has been no harm done after all. Well…apart from maybe someones reputation.” The last part of Lady Kathryns stint at impressions had finally arrived and BlackBerry sucked in a gasp through his teeth. The poor man. “Well, nothing to be done now I suppose. But I remind you that we have been invited to stay here all season lest you worry there will be any lack of time to enjoy ourselves. Though I daresay you might just drink us all under the table.”

BlackBerry had followed Lady Kathryn, and Kosara still hanging on for dear life, back towards the table where Victoria sounded as if she was finalising the deal with Urmdrus. It was as he rightened his chair that BlackBerry had an idea.

“Furthermore, it would only be fair for you to be clear headed to have at least a chance at besting me.” Elbow on the back of his chair and chin in his hand, his voice dripping with enough confidence alone to curl his lips into a cocky grin towards Lady Kathryn. A few sparks crackled from between his sharp teeth. “A battle between Dragon and Knight. A often told tale but I am unfamiliar with the classic ending thus far.”

With his challenge appropriately set he then settled down in his seat at the table, hoping to join the end of the conversation.

“But without further ado! What is this business of pissing in a bucket? I must admit I did only catch about half of the conversation unfortunately, but I did hear the mention of making use of the ah…Carapace?” He couldn’t quite hide the little rise in his voice from astonished but curious disgust. “Rather fascinating to hear you can make such things from…well..bugs. Would it be a stretch to assume bracers, belts, or helmets on that list? Boots, even?” The last suggestion came a moment after everything else as he though suddenly of snow and sleet brought on by winter. He hadn’t packed any shoes or wrappings for his travels
.
BlackBerry could feel the evening coming to a close despite its relative youth. He wondered if the others felt as he did; comfortably warm and full of tasty food, the weariness from their long journey coupled with the excitement of the battle of the bugs had left him wanting for a quiet and restful slumber. There was still work to do before they could all retire though; BlackBerry would volunteer to help tidy and clean the table and crockery while he hoped one of the others could find somewhere for Young Lizbeth to sleep for the night. With so many rooms at their disposal he guessed they could even offer a place for Master Urmdus should he desire.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: N/A Location: N/A Action: Nab Lady Kathryns drink (25) Reaction: Catch the ale Bonus Action: Dump the ale Ki: 3/5

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BlackBerry blinked up at the ceiling trying to clear away the stars from behind his eyes while Kosara spoke, painting scenes of horses with large fatty lumps on their backs galloping across shifting waves of sand with wagons of people in tow. It would have been an amusing image to think about if it weren't for the sharp pains at the back of his skull, and base of his horn, where had had hit the floor. His foot also reminded him it had been hurt as well. It was odd to think he could easily take being stabbed, punched, kicked, bitten, and smacked with a haddock without so much as a wince or a grunt, but it was falling backwards on a chair which had left him stunned for a moment.

From his spot of the floor he could hear people running through introductions for the newcomer.

“Baronfjørd Chedgusah.” BlackBerry said on hollow instinct, his hand popping above the table to give a quick wave. “Pleasure to make your acquaintance. And yes, I would appreciate a hand, but in a moment thank you. Let the room stop spinning first.”

Almost regrettably he could hear the conversation above him turn towards what to do with the bug carcasses. Kosara seemed to have it in mind to wear some of the chitin in her hair from the sounds of it, while Victoria had the more reasonable idea to instead have some fine light armour created. Lady Kathryn meanwhile had managed to grab a drink for Urmdrus, and another on for herself for good measure, and was now stumbling her way back towards the table as if the floor was rolling like the golden waves of sand Kosara had mentioned. The floorboard beneath his back juddered with every nearing step, filling BlackBerry with the acute sense he was in danger of being stepped on if he didn’t move.

“Lend me a hand would you please Kosara.” He then added with more than hint of urgency, reaching up to Kosara. “Quickly now.”

Fate however decided this would not come to pass. As Blackberry reached out towards Kosaras offered hand the pale tiefling was whisked away by large hands wrapping around her and carrying her out of reach, leaving only the fleeting feeling of their finger tips brushing past each other.

“Ah.” BlackBerry said simply The dread finally blooming into abject fear. “Oh no.”
Scrambling feverishly up from the floor BlackBerry chased after Lady Kathryn around the room while trying hard not to be hit by Kosaras limbs being thrown this way and that as she was paraded about like a springtime maiden. He ducked under Kosaras flying legs with a small yelp when Lady Kathryn suddenly spun again to make a beeline towards her momentarily forgotten drink at the bar. BlackBerry tried to jump ahead of Lady Kathryn in attempt to snatch away the drink before she could grab it, but even in her current state her long legs carried her to her prize, only for BlackBerry hit the bar and his hand grasping at nothing but air. He smacked the bar with a furious snarl.

“Lady Kathryn! Would you please beh-yipe!” He ducked under another spin of Kosoras legs. “Do you take the request to ceased this nonsense and calm down for a moment? It is incredibly unseemly to behave in such a manner in fron-goondness!” Another hurried duck beneath her captives legs. “To behave in such a manner in front of our host and guest!” He finally finished with a snap of his teeth for good measure.

BlackBerry wisely took a step back to gesture at the much, much calmer conversation taking place at the table which he was admittedly missing the majority of. He didn’t dare think what Lizbeth thought of them all now behaving like a bunch of animals and fools. He didn’t dare think of what Madame L’Rose would then think of them after hearing of this not only from her Niece, but also from Master Urmdrus as well.

“Perhaps you should slow down?” He suggested.

“Or even another bite to eat?” He pleaded.

“Lady Kathryn, Would you at least allow Kosara to stand on her own two feet?” Although just after he said that he looked to the Teifling and figured she was actually enjoying this.

Unfortunately his suggestions were either ignored or simply not heard as BlackBerry found himself in the surprising position of not being the loudest person in the room. Given the circumstances, he didn’t like it. With the patience of a cat he stood, fuming, bristling almost as Lady Kathryn declared her her skills of mocking impressionism to the world. Meanwhile BlackBerry’s eyes had snapped onto the pint still in her hand waving too and fro as she jump from one voice to another, biding his time, only half listening to her talk while waiting patiently until….Lady Kathryn came to stop.

He struck like lightning. BlackBerry stepped forward and wrapped his hand around LAdy Kathryns wrist of the hand carrying her drink, with his index and middle fingers on the back. Without even a moment lost, surprise was key to this movement, he pushed Lady Kathryns hand inwards with his index and middle fingers. The sudden force strong was enough to crash through the knights resistance but crucially not enough to break the wrist. At any other time the Knight would likely have been able to resist the movement to break her grip through sheer strength or dexterity from endless training honed into instinct. Instead, BlackBerry watched Lady Kathryn's fingers slacken as the tendons within were unwilling stretched to their limit and then gave out, breaking her grip from the cup. His knee snapped upward to meet the falling cup and send it, and its contents shooting up into the air.

The cup began its descent first.

BlackBerry released Lady Kathryns wrist and snatched the cup from the air. The now freed ale was still up high but had already begun it’s own descent within the loving embrace of the force known as gravity. Still deeply within the moment, BlackBerry saw the world; he saw the beauty of the firelight at the same time reflected and refracted through the globules and drops of the golden ale spinning and shining. His movements were as steady as they were blisteringly fast, drawing the cup in an arc across the air to gather the ale back into its home. He did have to drop into a crouch to catch a stray drop he hadn’t been able to get in the initial arc but otherwise he had caught nearly every bit of the ale that Kathryn hadn’t yet drank.

“I do apologise for that Lady Kathryn, that was somewhat rash of me.” BlackBerry drew himself back up straight, the drink he now held had gained a very large head of foam from its exciting travels. “I hope I did not cause you any harm. But as I was saying Lady Kathryn, you should really pace yourself. We are in the company of our very gracious host and I unfortunately must inform you that you are not making the best impression.”

Promptly turning on his heel, the fish tied to his horn ratted with laughter at the shamed knight, he then strode towards a potted plant. “You have had quite enough for this evening.” He upended the ale into the potted plant.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: Comfortably warm and full Location: The Inn Action: Insight (12) Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 3/5

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BlackBerry listened to Victoria and was impressed the explanation of her abilities and then digression into her family history as well. He did however stick out his tongue in mild disgust when she mentioned Necromancy, though he was somewhat impressed that she had just said it aloud without any hesitancy at all. The image of her cousin hung in the air before him with such a strong family resemblance it was almost uncanny, and if he hadn’t known any better he would have assumed they were siblings.

He watched with growing embarrassment and dread as Lady Kathryn continued down her merry way towards drunken abandon, with Lizbeth taking on the role of caretaker for the knight who looked to be loosing track of her limbs. He offered the young girl an apologetic smile for his companions behaviour. But Lizbeths talk of her crush and her devious schemes did earn her also a lopsided smirk and a chuckle; he could appreciate the fun games could-be-couples would play simply in the hunt for scraps of time spent together. Oh the stories BlackBerry could tell of such games played back home.

Lizbeths pause at his question wasn’t entirely unexpected but it did make him sit up and listen to her answer, nodding with agreement as she laid out her thoughts on training. Perhaps her idea of how long training took was a bit on the optimistic side but he didn’t blame her for it, obviously she had a good head on her shoulders but she was still young, but there was something more to her excitement. BlackBerry leaned back in his chair and pushed against the table with his knee, balancing on the chairs back legs precariously while he continue to listen.

Whatever was pushing Lizbeth down this path to train didn’t seem like a run of the mill fleeting fascination with adventure spurred on by watching battles and fights, this seemed like something more. He wondered if it was the recent passing of her Grandpa that might have caused this, perhaps the man had been killed in the attacks or otherwise had an unsavoury end. BlackBerry worked hard not to show the forming worries on his face, to keep his expression that of agreeable interest.

“Indeed, best to take the time to find your own strengths and what methods work best for you. There is more than one way to skin a cat after all.” He agreed joyfully with Lady KAthryns own somewhat slurred assessment. Lizbeths enthusiasm was proving infectious despite his worries. “I daresay you are spoilt for choice for what you may wish to learn. Lady Kathryn and myself can teach you that ways of weaponry or even hand to hand combat. But if you so fancy our esteemed magicians.” He gestured to Victoria and Kosara. “I am sure will happily offer their own expertise to you as well.”

Speaking of magicians. BlacBerry’s gaze then returned to Victoria but Lady Kathryn saw fit to try her hand at her own brand of music. He listened politely to the unfamiliar tune, his chair creaked on its back legs from him gently swaying in an attempt to follow the rambling rhythm Lady Kathryn sang before she descended into slurred and halfhearted mumbles.

“Perhaps another go at it in the morning Lady Kathryn? When your head has cleared somewhat, hopefully. But moving on, Victoria, there has been a question on my mind for sometime now.” He raised his hand and tapped upon his chin in mock contemplation, the momentum of the motion pulling his knee away from the tables edge for a moment, balancing on the chairs back legs. “You clearly have talent and skill for both the performing and magical arts, easily enough to get by on either alone. So I must ask why Necromancy?” BlackBerry’s voice was still happily loud and light with curiosity, but with a definite undercurrent of distaste as his lips curled around the word ‘Necromancy’. “Though I do admit that this may of course not be the best time for such a question. Topics for the dining table and all. While I am not a Cleric I am aware of several Gods who would frown upon such acts. Though I must admit that beast of yours is useful and all without the stre-”

Whatever BlackBerry was about to say next was mangled into a startled yelp when the front door crashed open and BlackBerry lost his balance. He fell backwards and fell out of view past the edge of the table in a wild flailing of limbs, a foot smacking at the underside of the table, swiftly followed by a clattering racket of chair, horn, and body hitting the floor in that order.

From the floor came a long hiss of pain and then a quiet. “Ow.”

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: N/A Location: The Inn Action: Enjoying food Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 3/5

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BlackBerry stared at Kosara in stunned disbelief when she had asked WHY discussing bedroom habits was not suitable for the dinner table. His spoon, hovering halfway to is lips, dribbled its contents back into the bowl. He put the spoon back into the bowl with a deepening frown after the rest of Kosaras sentence.

The picture she showed of the horse with a hump on it was very interesting, and if the rest of Kosaras sentence hadn’t been weighing on BlackBerrys mind he would’ve been inclined to ask more questions. Instead, he simply laid his hand on Kosaras shoulder and said, in the tone of someone deeply, deeply, concerned for another’s well being;

“Perhaps later I shall explain.” And then finished off his wine with a grimace at its sharp sweetness.

With that bit of business of the way he returned to the more important matter of his meal with gusto, having had no idea when the next interruption would be, while Lady Kathryn explained the various dynamics of marriage to the group. Overall it all sounded rather complicated to him, his thoughts betrayed by his eyes flicking back and forth tracking the topic of all involve parties families approving of the marriage. A flag popped up in his mind.

“You’re married!” BlackBerry said with a bit too much surprise while almost chocking on a bit of pheasant. After a small coughing fit and with tears still in his eyes he continued. “A bakery sounds marvellous, Lady Kathryn. Apologies for the outburst I did not realise that when you had spoken before of exchange in lands and titles the marriage had been completed.”

He thumped his chest in an effort to remove the offending pheasant piece from his windpipe Meanwhile a pair of labourers arrived to setup the casks of ale and set the parties collected weaponry across the bar. BlackBerry noted through his tears the collection of weapons looked a lot larger now spread out than they had in a pile in the back of the wagon.

“Remind me to put in an order for fruit pastries. I very much look forward to trying some of your goods.”
The conversation again switched to the topic of Lizbeths training, possible training BlackBerry corrected himself, with Lady Kathryn giving a quick demonstration of her control with a blade. The neat little knife spun and twirled to the warriors whim making the blade flicker silver and orange in the roaring light from the fireplace. Finishing his meal, he rested his chin in his hand to watch the show while silently debating having another glass of something to drink. Comfortably full and warmed by the fire and with a hard days travel behind him, BlackBerry was certain he would sleep quite easy tonight.

“Are you hoping to be a warrior then Lizbeth, walking in the footsteps of our fair Lady here ?” He turned his head from Lady Kathryn to the young girl.“A life of a fighter, whether you adventure, is not for the faint of heart or those without discipline to continue their learning as much as they may.”

He then added with a sly look to the bottle in Lady Kathryns hand. “Furthermore, one must also be aware of what they consume as well.”

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: N/A Location: The Inn Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 3/5

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BlackBerry guided the wagon ambling along behind the L’Rose wagon, accompanied by the comforting noise of the river babbling to itself. It was a rather fine afternoon and thankfully uneventful rest of the journey which suited BlackBerry who had only just begun to figure out the basics of wagon-driving and had no desire to see if he could drive it at speed or during any excitement. Once cresting the hill and entering the Vineyard grounds proper he had given a long, low whistle not just at the size but at the quality of the grounds as well; Madame L’Rose clearly knew how to run things, and he gave his own small words of approval alongside everyone else.

Similarly, once arriving at The Inn, the particulars of wine production as explained by Madame L’Rose sailed clear over his head as he happily hopped down from the wagon and handed the reigns to the waiting Hands to care care of The Old Boy.

“I assume that is not normal then?” He had asked when Lady Kathryn exclaimed in shock at the high rate of harvest, but he didn’t listen for any answer if given in favour for looking over the walls of their new abode at the vineyard and the structures scattered throughout. The discussion of tasting said wine however was absolutely caught with a polite smile in silent hopefulness.

He simply waved away Madame L’Roses’ apologies. “There is simply no need for such apologies, Madame L’Rose you are a most gracious host to even offer food let alone such a generous abode.” His voice hand gotten louder with excitement towards the end of the sentence as he gestured in a spin at The Inn building. Returning to usual loud speaking volume he then continued, after Lady Kathryn had offered her own piece, “That same goes for me also. I should not want to you to think of any of as anything less than grateful and willing to lend a hand as best we may.”

He had truly meant it and very much hoped that Madame L’Rose would call upon them soon to make good the promise. Following the rest of the party into the Inn only further strengthened this feeling as he came to find everything had been swept, cleaned, polished and set up just as Madame L’Rose had said. After he had taken some time to at least pop his head into all the room downstairs, and the cellar, he ascended the stairs to check out the bedrooms.

BlackBerry laid claim, at least for now, to one of the smaller bedroom to the north of the building. He would move easy enough and frankly he didn’t need a double bed but he did need somewhere for a moment to change and to splash some water on his face. Returning downstairs he had changed out of the faded shirt and back into his red tunic which peak out below the grey sleeveless vest he still wore. The swords and the rest of the robed fabric that had been tied around his waist had been left upstairs with the rest of his belongings, exposing the simple trousers he wore beneath. Of course he still wore his scarf around his neck, so the necklace Kosara had generously bought him had instead found a home tied around his left horn and where the little fish occasionally clinked against the horn happy to see the world. BlackBerry had spend a minute or two trying to figure out what they were meant to be, something between a Mackerel and a Haddock was his best guess but their weren't enough details to be sure. Carried under his arm was a roll of crimson fabric.

He arrived into the taproom just in time to hear Kosaras talk of Camels, wrestling, and bedrooms. He had no idea what a Camel was but the other two subjects he knew about and could guess as to the current topic of conversation. He did do a double take seeing Lady Kathryn downing an entire bottle of wine while wrapped up in a sleeping bag, which he could only mean she was feeling the cold a lot more than he was.

“Well, Kosra,” Trying to calm his astonished laughter as he placed the roll of fabric on the seat next to Kosara. “I think maybe discussing the particular of Camels and their bedroom habits is not suitable.” He pushed the words out through gritted teeth and a small tilt of the head towards Lizbeth. “For the dinner table.” Nor is it one, he figured, Madame L’Rose would appreciate to hear about from her niece after staying in their care for the evening. He certainly wouldn’t.

The table had been set and laid out with enough places for everyone, including Lizbeth was busying herself with the fire and generally setting about handling the dinner arrangements for them. While BlackBerry had no doubts the young girl could handle things, and probably knew where everything would be stored, he still offered to lend a hand plating any remaining food, getting glasses, or tending the fire. Once all had been taken care of he then gently steered Lizbeth by the shoulder to sit down at the table.

“Do sit down a moment Young Lizbeth. I doubt your Aunt would approve of us working you to the bone this evening.”
After grabbing his own serving of pheasant and pumpkin soup he sat down next to Kosara, offering the roll of fabric he had placed minutes before on the chair. “Here you are Kosara, you might find more use of this than myself. Think of it as thanks for the marvellous necklace.” He turned his head so she might see the little fish swinging happily from his horn. The fabric would unravel to the marvellous crimson scarf the halfling woman had given him last week.

The conversation continued to move around him as he tucked into his meal, but as Lady Kathryn continued to talk the meal less and less important until he set down his spoon to listen better. He instead focused on her words, focused on her eyes no longer seeing the world around her, focused on her shoulders tensing and making the patchwork fabric of her sleeping bag rise and fall like the swells of a large waves out at sea. BlackBerry had noticed that stories of her past and her home, Arcanaple, were never far from Lady Kathryns lips, and now taking the time to listen the hushed tones of loss in her voice were almost palpable.

The words from The Voice crashed into his mind. ‘The sizeable warrior fled responsibility of clan and community for the illusion of safety, leaving nefarious things to fill the vacuum left behind.’ Had she ran from home for Love? Or ran from it? Or maybe something completely different altogether?

“Indeed. One must look upon the silver lining of even the worst situations. ” He smiled as Lady Kathryn made to pull herself away from her memories. “Perhaps such travels could even tell us what a ‘Camel’ is?”

The arrival of the wine Lady Kathryn had found prompted him to pack away the thoughts, and the questions, and the worries for another day, and instead focus on the offered wine in front of him and raising it in a toast with the others. He copied the motions he had seen Victoria do before he drank; swirling the liquid, holding the glass to his eye, giving it a quick sniff and then swallowing a small sip.

“I would agree with you Lady Kathryn on that assessment. It is wine, it is white, it is sweet.” He smacked his lips and took another appreciative sip of the drink. “No doubt our expert though could give a more detailed discussion of it. Might I ask how you even do so Victoria? How did you learn such a skill? All that you can say from a sip, if I did not know any better I may have said you were having us all for a laugh.”

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: N/A Location: SouthMoor Action: Questioning the Locals Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 3/5

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While waiting for the others to return from their various own shopping trips BlackBerry stayed with the wagons, and kept the Old Boy company. Occasionally he gave a polite wave or small greeting to the crowd that had formed around them, drawn in by both curiosity and the aforementioned bards display of musical prowess. With the idea they would be staying with Madame L’Rose at her Vineyard for a while, to BlackBerry’s mind, the least they could do would be to get to the bottom of the Ankheg business. Thankfully while the crowd had dispersed after the novelty of their arrival had worn off there were still plenty milling around either trying to look into the wagon from a distance, or simply minding their own business in the late afternoon.

This was the perfect time for him to start asking a few questions and given the willingness they had answered Victoria on where to fin soap he assumed they would be fairly helpful. Leaning against the wagon he looked about for someone who looked like they might know something, preferably someone who looked like a farmer or another farmhand. But just as BlackBerry had spotted his prey Lady Kathryn returned from her shopping and alighted upon the Wagon seat. From the ground he waved away her dismissal of his own theories.

“Mark my words, Lady Kathryn. Such a sort as those ruffians are liken to bad pennies if they are not dealt with one way or another.” He grimaced at the grim thought, he then added. “However, we may hope that when they do they have seen the error of their ways. But if you would excuse me for a moment.”

With Lady Kathryn back the wagon and the Old Boy were in safe hands for BlackBerry to do his own little wanderings. His targets, three in all, were directly opposite to where the wagons were parked and while all three appeared to be minding their own business chatting to one another, BlackBerry had seen their curious glances and gestures to the group. Time to politely pester the locals. BlackBerry just hoped this time would go better than it had in Avonshire.

Several minutes later BlackBerry returned to the wagon chewing his thumb-claw and his eyes jumping around in thought. Leaning on the Wagon seat with his elbow he then gave a deep sight before he spoke up at Lady Kathryn again.

“All right perhaps best to leave my words unmarked at this point and leave any bets off for now. I asked the gentlemen back there a few questions as to the current situation. As luck would have it they are local so were fairly helpful. Firstly, It seems that, other than ourselves, there have been no new comers of note lately, nor even any monsters moving into the area.” He gave a dissatisfied click of the tongue and he began tapping the wooden seat as he continued. “And secondly, it is as Mister Barbal and yourself explained earlier that being Ankhegs are not uncommon to this area are fairly docile during these months. Even Mister Tarace mentioned that they normally eat dirt.”

“But.” He held up a finger for emphasis. “Those beasts attacked us, which the gentlemen were quite surprised to hear I might add. It does appear that only Mister Laurent has been having the unfortunate stroke of luck recently with the beasts. Though I wonder if that would change in the coming weeks if something is not done.”

He resumed tapping upon the wooden seat again in thought and noted his thoughts tended to be on the grim side rather a lot as of late.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: N/A Location: Southmoor Action: Drive the Wagon (21) Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 3/5

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Despite Madame L’Rose’s reassurances that Barbal was probably just ‘being himself’ it didn’t work well to eliviate BlackBerry’s concerns. The idea of the Ankhegs having Queens and Soldiers, as MAdame L’Rose had explained, put some very strange images in BlackBerry’s head. Perhaps the creatures had decided to expand their borders? Or perhaps even they had been banished? An amusing image of one such Ankheg stealing the crown of another stubbornly refused to leave his mind for some time.

Once again, seated at the front of the wagon Blackberry was giving driving a go with much better success than his first attempt and had even surprised himself being able to turn the wagon around smoothly with minimal issue after the cargo had been loaded. A simple click of the tongue and a gentle flick of the reigns had been all that was needed for the Old Boy to move on at a steady pace, now after calming down thankfully quickly from the earlier excitement, and even didn't seem the least bit concerned about the cargo he was pulling. The wagon continued its way down the track as it trundled after the L'Roses' with the wind occasionally biting at BlackBerry as if reminding him that colder days were soon approaching despite the calm afternoon sun still relaxing above them.

BlackBerry's thoughts kept returning to the Ankhegs. His eyes kept snapping across the road ahead and the fields on either side, looking but not actually seeing, while his leg bounced with enough vigour that anyone sitting next to him would struggle to tell if it was the road or Blackberry making the wagon shake.

He had commented with approval once Victoria had returned from handing Lizbeth a sword. “A very handsome gift indeed. Let us hope your story, Kosara, has not left a sour taste of it for Madame L'Rose.”

Otherwise though the rest of the journey was uneventful (thankfully) save for towards the end where Victoria summoned her steed back into the world as the travellers drew closer to Southmoor. BlackBerry couldn’t help but let out a small whistle of appreciation at both the theatrics Victoria employed in the summoning and the state of the steed as well. The bard certainly knew how to put on a show.

BlackBerry politely slowed the wagon a little to allow Victoria her moment in the spotlight, announcing their arrival through song as the party drew into the boundary of the little town, and the road beneath the wagons wheels transitioned slowly from compacted earth to gravel and cobbles. He directed Old Boy to follow after the L’Rose wagon into the town with its charming little houses lining what must have been the only large street it had, though more houses up on the hill above did tease at more. BlackBerry pulled back on the reigns as he saw the L’Rose wagon come to a stop, and he hopped down to lead Old boy next to them as Victoria brought her tune to an end. BlackBerry of course gave a polite applause by clapping his hand upon his shoulder.

“If you are all looking to make some purchases I would be happy to stay here with wagons. Apart from some rations I have no need of anything currently so I can make some enquiries whilst we wait.”

"But if there is time, I should like to accompany Masters Barbal and Tarrace in a day or two.” He said, finally voicing his concerns that had been plaguing him throughout the journey. “You, Victoria, say you did not see any sign of nests and while I do not doubt your skills or perhaps even the advantage of a 'Birds eye view' I still worry that there is something we may have missed. Neither folk appear to be the combative sort either should the worst come to pass."

“So who wishes to place bets on what the cause is then? Another unsavoury fellow in power? Or simply some strange goings on in the animal kingdom? Perhaps even one of the ruffians once part Cavendish's troupe are responsible. I shudder to think.”

"However, perhaps we could sell off some of our uuuh..." His nose scrunched. "Some of the cargo. I can only assume it will not keep well for long."

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: N/A Location: Edge of the field Action: Checking on the Mule (10) Bonus Action: pet the horsey Reaction: N/A Ki: 2/5

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BlackBerry watched Lady Kathryn with a careful eye when she suddenly began to wobble where she stood and then curiously shrank back down to her more familiar, though no less substantial and imposing height. He stood at the ready to dash over and help her stay upright but thankfully he wouldn't have to in the end, as Lady Kathryn gave a few whoops of joy from not throwing up. Given what she had said about her last attempt with her runic magic he couldn't blame her.

His own stomach however was still threading a revolt which only grew stronger when Barbel added onto Lady Kathryn's explanation of the creature, Ankhegs, with fun instructions to Kosara about how best to capture, prepare, and cook the beasts. For the most part he simply help his hand over his snout in an attempt to politely cover his grimace of disgust. It seemed like everyone was on board with the idea of collecting a good amount and bringing it with them, likely intending to fill the wagon as much as they could with whatever survived the gathering process.

“Weren’t the big ones.” BlackBerry parroted Barbal with an incredulous tone as he gestured towards the Ankhegs. “Begging your pardon, but are you suggesting these Ankhegs get bigger? Actually, no I do not wish to know.”
A horrible thought popped into his mind; he remembered not long ago taking shelter in a friendly homestead where he had been kindly offered a simple meal in return for tales and news from afar, the meal including a nice slice of meat the host had called 'Fields Fiend'. Blackberry chose in that moment to believe it had just been a fun name and in no way related to the current topic, likely it had been too far away from where these creatures roamed so there was no chance it could have been the same. It was simply a coinciden. Just a Coincidence.

Lizbeth arriving with a small bottle of drink pulled him back to the present and out of his horrors. Graciously accepting the bottle he returned to the conversation but kept his gaze away from the impromptu lesson Kosara was being given.

"It would seem there is a mystery then; Why are they here?" Following Lizbeths kind advice, he took a small sip of the drink and found it cool, refreshing, and did in fact calm his stomach. "Were the creatures brought here or came of their own volition? It does hardly seem that Mr Laurent is moving on from sheep to Ankhegs." Taking another small sip, he then continued the previous thought. "I would suggest it wise to check for any sign of a nest nearby. It would not do for us to go through all this trouble only for more Ankhegs to appear then again later on. However, if I may leave that to the rest of you, I shall attend our dear mule."

He hopped back over the fence with slightly less spring in his step than before the talk of eating bugs, and headed towards to the party’s wagon where their mule waited almost exactly where he had left it.

He gently patted the creature on the nose and looked into its big black eyes. “There you are Old Boy. I trust you are doing well?”

BlackBerry fussed over the creature as he tried his best to figure out any tell-tale signs of stress, but otherwise glad to see the creature hadn’t bolted from its spot during the short skirmish. Overall the animal seemed, as far as BlackBerry could tell, but its ears kept snapping back and forth to any noise while fidgeting on the spot, and mouthing around its bit. It seemed to him that their poor Mule was at least bit put out by the whole ordeal, and perhaps trying to put brave face for everyone.

“Ah, easy now Old Boy. there is nought to worry about now.” He stroked down the beasts neck making hushing and relaxing noises, hoping to calm it down. He snapped his fingers remembering something. “One moment, I have just the thing for you.”

In the back of the wagon he found a small bag containing a few brushes and other tools someone back in the Township had said was a grooming kit, along with a small bag of what he had been assured was some very nice oats. BlackBerry returned to the Mule and spent some time feeding it the very nice oats before moving on to using the big brush from the bag, one of the few tools he recognised and he decided to later ask someone what the rest of the tools were for.

Not long after and with the parties spoils packed and ready to go he took the time to relax a little to simply enjoy the scenery, as well as removing some of the strains from his new clothing, and hopefully take advantage of Victoria's prestidigitation abilities if she allowed. It seemed that Lady Kathryn was still taking the time to walk Lizbeth through her own impromptu training; showing the motions of swinging the hefty weapon before handing it over to the young girl, and then patiently correcting her mistakes while praising her accomplishments.

Let them have their fun for a little longer, he thought, there is still time after all before dark.

He lent upon the fence while nearby Victoria and Madame L'Rose discussed matters around how to use the bug Carapace that had been gathered. The thought of all they were carrying still disgusted him but BlackBerry saw no need to argue against it now. Instead, he watched the lesson in front of him making sure that firstly, Lizbeth didn't come to any harm, and secondly, that no more Ankhegs decided to make another appearance. Placing his chin in his hand, the whole scene in front of him put him in mind of home, far, far away from where he was now, and to the thought of another young girl he knew. A heavy weight settling across his chest and heart, an oppressive weight which pulled his brows together in a sad furrow, while he tried to look far beyond all he could see at that moment. BlackBerry lifted his chin and began to play with the cloth wrapped around his neck. The poor girl had been through a lot but he wondered if this was really the best idea.

"Very well done young Lizbeth, no doubt you will make a marvellous fighter soon enough He called to the pair. "Especially soon with Lady Kathryn as your mentor."

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: N/A Location: Field Action: Perception (8) Bonus Action: General Disgust. Reaction: Holding down his lunch. Ki: 2/5

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BlackBerry shook his head vigorously, Lady Kathryns final blow to the creature had sent its skull sailing over his head and trailing a marvellous arc of viscera and sinew across the sky and all over him. With the immediate threat removed he could take a moment to try and wipe as much of the creature guts off his face as his could before the stinging sensation became any worse. The fiery limbs unravelled from around him and lowered but still remained. Through watery eyes he gave the area a quick survey around but thankfully couldn’t see any more of the creatures and nothing seemed to be rising up from the ground in search of vengeance.

“I agree, Lady Kathryn. A further investigation may be in order.” He gave his sword a sharp flick to remove the worst of the blood(?) from it, but he would have to clean it properly before putting it back into its sheathe. “But perhaps we can safely assume the beasts present have been dispatched most efficiently.”

In a moment annoyance he clicked his teeth at the groups audience at that they had decided to wait around gawking instead of moving at least a little bit away from the fight. Well it does no harm after all, he reasoned, the battle was over within a few moments and no one was hurt. He indulged their onlookers with a final flourish of the sword and a low bow, the ethereal limbs rising behind him like plumes of fire.

Coming back up he called over to the wagons. “One hopes the show was to your liking, good fellows, but I must ask your forgiveness if an encore is what you des-” BlackBerry heard Kosara talking between the sounds of wet thudding. “what are you doing?”

There was an almost audible crack in the air from the speed of BlackBerry’s head turning to see Kosarra happily chopping away at one of the creatures, gleefully wondering how they were to cook their latest kill. BlackBerry grimaced and stuck out his tongue at the very thought of eating the creatures, and Kosara home suddenly seemed a little bit less desireable to visit. Then to his horror, but not surprise, Victoria also approached the corpse and began taking her own samples.

“No, no. I am quite unharmed. Thank you.” He replied weakly to Victoria's offer.

His stomach did a small somersault at the sight of the creature being expertly carved apart beneath the gentle touch of Victorias blade, snipping and slicing away at the stringy connective tissues between its armour plates as if cutting away the fat from a slice bacon. Broken bones, viscous dog attacks, gaping wounds, patchwork goliaths, and blood soaked torture rooms, all absurdly sat well below his apparent limit of giant bugs being cut apart for food. BlackBerry turned and walked a few steps away from the sight of it all while silently fighting his lunch from making a reappearance.

“You did keep it well occupied, Kosara. If I were it, I would have attempted to flee as well.” BlackBerry did not turn around but spoke over his shoulder. His eyes resolutely fixed in the direction of the wagons and tried hard not to listen to the sounds of flesh being torn. “Had there been another threat to the creatures it is not there now.” He sheathed the blade once more, it was clean enough to his mind, and briskly made his escape to the edge of the field flanked by his fiery limbs like a pair of blinders.

“Gracious me, I believe we may have answered the question as to where your sheep had wandered off to.” Leaning upon the fence as he addressed the two Farmers with a nod of the head to the scene behind him while his stomach warned him against actually looking back. “The next question is of course, what manner of creature they are?”

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah Dragon Born, Monk (Astral self), Level 05 HP: 40 / 40 Armor Class: 16 Conditions: N/A Location: G9 -> N11 Action: Attack X3 (hit 26, dmg 5), (hit 11, dmg N/A) Bonus Action: Flurry of blows (hit 18, dmg 4), (hit 16, dmg 6) Reaction: N/A Ki: 2/5

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The bugs last moments were apparently of great pain and suffering if its flailing limbs and shuddering mandibles were anything to go by. BlackBerry ducked beneath one such limb in its final moments of screeching, horrid death throws. Watching the black ichor pour out from around its eyes he had a very good idea as to who had landed the final blow to the disgusting creature.

He paused for a moment to let his lip curl at the twitching form of the now, thankfully, dead giant bug. He was averse to most bugs even at their usual size, so this was absolutely beyond disgusting, and in his opinion they had no right to be this big. It was simply impolite for everyone else. Already hoping from foot to foot ready to sprint, he gave the bulbous skull a quick tap with his sword to make sure the damn thing was dead. Satisfied it wasn't playing dead he spun on the balls of his feet towards a startling scene of Kosara having turned the tables on her assailant, now victim scrambling to remove the screaming Tiefling from its back. He gave a quick glance towards Lady Kathryn to see she had managed to single handedly dispatch her bug.

BlackBerry wasted not a moment more and surged towards the pair. fiery limbs trailing behind him from the shoulder.

“I stand corrected. It is the beast who needs assistance.” He called to Victoria as he sped past.

He held the blades point directly ahead of him as he ran, speeding towards the creature, throwing up wheat and dirt behind him. He collided with the bug. The blade slipped between the chitinous plates and sunk into the beasts soft innards, drawing out anguish screams alongside Kosaras maddened bellows, but it had only managed to pierce about a third of the blades length. BlackBerry pulled himself away from the bugs hide, trying hard not to gag at the smell of its blood, and pushed hard upon the blade forcing it deeper into the wound. Then, BlackBerry did gag at the stench of its blood gushing over his hand as he snatched the blade away, and struggled to see past his tears for his next strike to even hit the creature.

“Bugs are far too small to have blood or veins like us.” Anothers helpful voice in a memory spoke, he tried to shake the it away but the memory persisted. “Their organs sit in a liquid inside their bodies. I’m not sure what its called but I’ll find out.”

His right limb fired out a delicate jab, a gentle caress, a little love tap against its (for lack of a better word) chest to confirm the creature was within striking distance.

“Brace.”

The left fiery limb, BlackBerry threw his whole body into the lunge with a twist at the hip, came in like a battering ram. The fiery fist came into focus upon the world as it slipped under the creatures fore-claws and struck the bugs torso with a satisfyingly audible crunch.

@Shoe Thief nicely done! Lets get the last beasty