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 Coach House (taproom) Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 5/5

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BlackBerry blinked several times at Lady Kathryn so that to anyone elese it would look as if he was trying to send a message in blinks. In actuality he was trying to figure out if he had slipped down the stairs and knocked himself out, and everything happening now was just a dream. He decided it probably wasn’t.

He was relieved though to see Kosara arrive fully clothed though still slightly damp from her bath earlier and give Lizbeth an apology. While Lizbeth obviously seemed a bitthrown off from the whole ordeal she seemed quite happy to set about ordering the Cleaners onto their task, adding onto Lady Kathryns own words from earlier for the Cleaners to start their work upstairs.

BlackBerry couldn’t say he was entirely surprised by Lady Kathryns response, the woman seemed to be happy to offer her services and evidently her very being to anyone who needed even the slightest bit of help. On its own the trait was exemplary but in the face of being temporarily killed just to show off a neat trick it left something to be desired.

But then again BlackBerry was also admittedly a little bit curious as to what this trick of Victorias could be. Playing with his scarf with a churning sense of excitable dread in his stomach, he crept forward a few steps after Lizbeth towards the table that was offered to Victoria. He still, overall ,wasn’t too happy about the whole ordeal.

He rolled his eyes with a sigh. “Very well, but only if you are certain Lady Kathryn. So, Victoria. You have your audience,” He gestured then to the Cleaners, and then to Lady Kathryn herself “And willing assistant. Do you need anything more? No Ritual Daggers or Bones of The Damned? This had better not be at all…graphic.”

As an after thought, he then commented more towards Lizbeth than anyone else. “I shan’t dare to wonder what your Aunt would say about all this.”

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 Coach House (taproom) Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 5/5

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"Ah! Good morning Young Lizbeth.” BlackBerry chirped back “I trust you slept well then to be up at such an hour as I did hear a small crash. But it appears that no harm was done?”

He followed her, after she came from around the counter, towards the hearth with her tray filled with various breakfast stuffs. Bread, butter, and various spread jostle for room around the teapot and mugs that rattled when the tray was put down on the table. He let out an appreciative ‘ooh’ and smacked his lips. Another one of natures calls sounded from his stomach.

“A veritable feast for the eyes! And soon for the body as well. You do far too much much Young Lizbeth, I insist on doing the washing up afterwards. And I will not hear a word otherwise.”

Lady Kathryns unmistakable voice then began to drift over from beyond the not-quite-closed kitchen door sounding strained, almost pleading, to whomever she was talking to. While Blackberry couldn’t hear the all of what was being said he did overhear a few choice words like ‘jail’, ‘nefarious’, ‘not be shared’, and ‘castration’. He kept tilting his head slightly with each barely heard snippet, and he frowned felling utterly confused about the whole thing he was only overhearing half of. BlackBerry took a few steps trying to catch a glimpse through the gap of kitchen door but only a thin slice of the kitchen hearth visible to him.

“Well, it certainly sounds as if something interesting is happening.” He addressed Lizbeth as he returned to stand near the Hearth. “Should I even ask?”

BlackBerry could only assume that Young Lizbeth had decided to try and finish her cooking out here to escape whatever strange event was taking place in the Kitchen. He let her continue in peace and soon the smell of cooked breakfast began to fill the room, making his stomach rumble with anticipation.

Standing beside the hearth, his attention was then quickly taken by the Raven sitting atop the mantel. Its feet clacked quietly against the stone mantel as it shuffled under BlackBerry’s roving eyes. He was somewhat taken by the birds feathers which at first glance where a simple black where actually iridescent in shades of deep purple and rich cobalt.

“Hello there handsome fellow. You are Victoria's little bird, are you not?” Tentatively, he reached out his hand to the bird roughly the size of his head. “Yes, I thought I recognised you.”

At that moment, Lady Kathryn and Victoria came traipsing into the taproom both. His chipper morning greeting once again died in his throat when he caught sight of them both wearing long, drawn faces. Lady Kathryn then advised the just arrived cleaners to begin their work upstairs.

“Out of their bath?” BlackBerry repeated. He looked at Victoria, then Lady kathryn and then back to the former as she gave an explanation of sorts to Young Lizbeth decreeing the beauty of different songs. His eyes widened in abject horror while his facial scales did an impressive job of becoming several shades lighter. “Say it not so.”

Hearing Victorias offer to show Young Lizbeth a fun, family friendly trick of temporarily killing someone, his head snapped towards Victoria so quickly it damn near broke the sound barrier. For another rare, but becoming regular, moment Blackberry stood still in sheer flabbergasted astonishment watching Victoria then call Lady Kathryn over.

“N-n-n-now hang on, hang on just a moment.” He just about managed to pick his jaw off the floor. “Victoria. Would, would you mind explaining a bit further this uh…’interesting’ bit of magic? It is safe, yes? After all, Lady Kathryn's behaviour last night doesn't deserve such a punishment as death.” Forcing a laugh he endeavoured to convince himself this was a joke on Victoria's part. “Perhaps an animal would do just as well for the trick such as uh…rabbit or duck?”

The following moment came a clarity that surely Victoria wouldn’t kill someone, least of all one of the group, right in front of their hosts child. Especially after the last two incidents that had taken place this would easily, simply be, an illusion the talented bard with a penchant for necromancy would cast to entertain Young Lizbeth. Lady Kathryn would not be killed, she would not die and then come back to life. BlackBerry chose to ignore the part of him mind reminding him there was an undead swine standing by the wall.

In the wake of all this happening his original reason for coming downstairs had been momentarily forgotten.

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 Coach House (taproom) Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 5/5

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BlackBerry fought hard against waking up. He pulled the blanket over his head and curled up tight to shield himself from the light clawing in from the cracks between the curtains, and the very, very cold world outside his little warm bubble. It worked…for all of ten minutes until a loud crash from below jolted him back awake.

Bracing himself against the cold cold he peeked his head out from his warm cocoon and listened intently to the world below. The cold of the night had managed to slink into his room and was now turning his breath to fog in front of his face. His hearing strained to hear a small voice, unmistakably Lizbeth, say something he couldn’t make out but nothing more. Whatever she had said didn’t sound to him to have been in any pain or distress. Plus his bed was still very nice, warm, and very comfortable making it a very nice change of pace from sleeping under trees or whatever inn he could usually afford.

More signs of life continued to emerge; he could hear someone emerging from Victoria and Kosaras room, and then someone else several minutes later. In his comfortable doze he waited to see if he could hear any movement from Lady Kathryns room. He could hear more voices and movement coming from downstairs suggesting that the others were already awake for the day, leaving him as possibly the last to emerge, other than Lady Kathryn who he still couldn't hear anything off from her room.

He then remembered, just as nature decided to call, the deal he and the rest of the party had made. BlackBerry tried to fight it. He tried to turn over and hide from the oncoming call but it was of no use, no matter how cosy and warm he got nature continued her battle cry that all creatures, man and beast felt in the rising rays of dawn. The party had made a deal and nature was going to make certain the deal would be upheld.

He needed to piss.

With begrudgment rivalling winds against mountains he left the warm safety of the blanket and set about dressing himself in all his clothes, comprised only of his robes, shirt and jacket, in an effort to ward off the cold. He could hear someone singing outside and he paused in his morning routine to appreciate the formless but pleasant vocalisations confirming his suspicion of who had just gone outside. This followed by a splash of water, and a brush of the teeth to ready himself for the day. His bag was left alongside the swords leaning against the dresser.

Stepping outside he was greeted by the small gust of wind, bringing with it promise of colder days to come. He shivered and pulled his jacket closer in protest against the weather. His feet crunched upon the thin layer of ice that had formed on the stairs during the night. He made sure as he descended the icy stairs that he had a good hold of the hand rail.

“Good morning everyone! I do hope you all slept…” Stepping inside his joyful greeting quickly faded in the empty room, save for the undead swine dutifully standing to one side. “I shan’t say how you likely slept.” He closed the door behind him. “Hello? Anyone around?”

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 (taproom -> back bedroom) Action: Going nap nap Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A Ki: 3/5

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BlackBerry nodded politely to the Master Craftsmans explanation, and then appreciatively took a mental note of the Shoecrafter in Southmoor thinking that once they had all settled and gathered their barrings over the coming days a little excursion could be planned. While Madame L’Rose had said their stock would be refreshed weekly there would undoubtedly be something they would need over the coming weeks. He had, of course, chuckled good naturedly as at the comments around old tales of dragons, knights, bards, and princess’s escaping such, quietly intrigued by the various tales the others had heard over their lives. But it would be a conversation for another day, possibly after his and Lady Kathryns sparring match, which he was delighted to hear her wholeheartedly agree to.

“I would daresay a good deal more than just a bottle and a glass.” His eyes drifted towards the undoubtedly now lighter barrel of ale Lady Kathryn had been enjoying earlier.

Master Urmdrus’s departure, stressing beyond just general insistence that only piss be in the buckets, triggered and almost exodus from the taproom as the others began to file away to bed. While he had originally planned and even begun to volunteer to lend a hand with clean up it became quickly apparent that Lizbeth, with Lady Kathryns help, had everything in hand. Young Lizbeth was a marvellous host indeed, he would have to commend the young girls behaviour to her Aunt when the party returned her in the morning.

Waving away Victorias apology for not answering his question earlier, he said. “No need to worry at all, Victoria. I am glad to hear you did not take my questioning the wrong way. Now, off with you to bed and we may continue our conversations in the morning when we are all refreshed. Sleep well, same to you as well Kosara.”

The tale-tale thud-thud-thud of the cart wheel being pulled up the stairs by Morty soon came after Victoria and her undead swine had left the room, with Kosara following shortly after. Each time the door opened a small gust of the cold wind slipped into the taproom and BlackBerry wasn’t quite ready just yet to face it on his own journey to his room. There was still one matter of business left.
“Well until then, it seems Young Lizbeth you do have several options for accommodation available to you. I would assume Victoria and Kosara would not say no to you bunking with them in the same room though if you prefer?” Turning in his chair to face Lady Kathryn he then answered, “Myself? The bedroom at the back will do me well as it appears none are against the arrangement.”

The idea of staying here, in Avonshire, on the L’Rose estate finally started to settle on BlackBerry. A whole Winter. A few weeks at least, possibly more depending on how blocked the roads became with snow. Sitting at the now empty table he drummed without any rhythm or pattern with his claws upon the wood. An entire Season here.

“Time marches on, yet still I am forced to be.” His heavy thoughts tumbled out quietly and apparently without his own notice. “Still, may as well make the best of it.”

Not that he had any leads, or any of anything really. All he had was a restless, frantic energy boiling beneath the dread of the future and tiredness of the day. Slapping the table to break himself out of his spiralling thoughts, BlackBerry took a breath as he stretched up from the chair with a popping of joints and a small sigh.

“Well, Lady Kathryn, I hope you don’t mind but I shall excuse myself as well. I must admit it has been not an overall eventful day but certainly a long one. I shall be much glad to rest my head somewhere warm and dry for the evening.” He commented as he headed towards the door, intent on making his own way to bed. “We certainly must find some way to repay this kindness during our stay. A meal or two certainly would not go amiss either I say.”

His foot tapped against the other bucket sitting empty on the floor. BlackBerry, with his hand still on the door handle, looked down at the empty bucket and then back towards Lady Kathryn. Victoria had taken the other bucket with her leaving the obvious even split of both buckets and party members.

“If you do not mind I shall provide my share of the payment in the morning. Goodnight!”

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
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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.