Shoe Thief

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: N/A Location: Vineyard tasting room Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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As the night continued, Kathryn could feel the booze working through her system. Not enough for her to do anything too crazy she hoped. And for the most part she still felt only impaired enough to drown the shy awkward side of herself. Now! The confident noble woman was allowed out to play. Physically Kathryn had the confidence that she could physically out match anyone that opposed her. In this moment she was feeling pretty damn near that socially. Hells, in this moment she felt beautiful, she had the most adorable date, she had the titles to back up her social standing against over confident social bullies, and she was winning! She was on top of the world! Mostly. With the toast, Kosara had offered to sober up in this moment. With a chuckling smile Kathryn shook her head. "I'm good love. If I start throwing things or doing impressions though? Maybe then. I am okay for now though." Kathryn said warmly as she gave a kiss to Kosara's forehead. Kosara was clearly not as much of a drinker that Kathryn was. Which was fair. Kathryn had the slight chance of being a mild alcoholic. But she also could drink a ton more before alcohol began to kick her ass. "Most cases I would have to agree with you. Something simple without being mind numbing is better for day to day situations. Though I do have a soft spot for a sweet whiskey. My pallet isn't for everyone." She had just noticed it now, but her tone wasn't even its usual relaxed laid back tone she picks up when being social. Despite her drinking and semi relaxed posture, she was still very much acting as a proper representative of her name. A more official tone that could be used for low stress professional political and asset meetings. That is when she realized she was sounding a lot like her father in this moment. Shame no lands were attached to her titles. Nor did she have heirs. Or a married spouse. Even looking at Kosara she wasn't even sure marriage was something the tiefling woman would ever consider, or even wanted. Then the problem of heirs came up. Unless warlock magic could solve that problem too, Kathryn could never marry Kosara and attempt to continue plans of returning to power. Not without lands, and a spouse who could give her an heir. But that wasn't tonights problem. Tonight! She just had to prove to the woman she wasn't shit faced enough to need sobering up. "We could try some salted crackers to cleanse your pallet and a dark red maybe for that sour taste you're looking for?" Kathryn offered the woman.

Blackberry's look in Kathryn's direction was one she couldn't resist. She gave a rather affirmative nod, and returned a grin pointing her eye brows back at Kosara with a smile that said anything but innocent intentions. Not that Kathryn had any notions of where the night would go. Or the fact that most of those less than innocent thoughts she only knew from books and second hand retellings. She was high on her wins, and wanted the world to know she was on top of the world! Plus seeing Bb's face amused her. The way the monk was trying to figure her out, Kathryn figured keeping him guessing would be the most fun. At the mention of horse shoes Kathryn looked puzzled. "I think we'll find ourselves in a comparable situation Jon. I appreciate the idea but the contest wouldn't even come close again. Outside of my skills with a weapon I happen to be rather great at iron works too. Swords, axes, buckets, knives, plates, and of course, horse shoes. But that is the sort of creative thinking we need to find ourselves some competitions that don't end with one of us bloody and beaten." Kathryn chuckled warmly and confidently not getting horse shoes was in fact, a playable game. Though she did think it odd that a smithing competition of making horse shoes came to the stable mans mind. Maybe he really needed a bunch of horse shoes? And saw a way to kill two birds with one stone? If Kathryn had free time she could likely still help him there. Though BB did take a moment for proper introductions to the stable man which made things easier for Kathryn to address the man. "It is a pleasure to properly meet you Jon. Allow me to return the introduction. Lady Kathryn Pyke of Arcanaple. But just Kathryn works wonderfully. We're here socially, not on business after all."

Kathryn turned to Kosara to excuse herself a moment telling her, "I'll be right back darling. I want to go take care of something real fast." She spoke warmly to the smaller woman before making her way over to Monsieur Laurent and the Mosswaters. With a warm and polite smile, and a soft curtsy Kathryn greeted the land owners. "Greetings. Tarace Mosswater. Barbal Moss water. Monsieur Laurent. I hope all has been well." She said giving a curtsy to each of them as she greeted them. "Monsieur Laurent, I was hoping we could chat. privately?" She tried to ask sweetly. Alas, her womanly charms were not enough to win him yet. He seemed far from interested in joining her for a private talk. "Okay then." She spoke sweetly as she stepped to his side. Using his person as a way to separate the conversation to a minimal at least. Though at her height using people as barriers socially didn't really work out so well. Still, speaking softly she didn't want to announce their conversation to the whole room.

"I must apologize for how our last conversation went. I hope you didn't feel embarrassed or targeted. You seem like a very pleasant gentleman. A good solid man who would get along rather nicely with a man like my father. He's a bit of a traditionalist himself. A man who respects authority, power, and position." Kathryn said simply, stepping off to the mans side so she didn't accidentally give the impression she was talking down to him. Being physically taller than most people in the area, that was something easy to do accidentally. She didn't want to seem to be giving him a lecture. "I think you would struggle to get along with my mother. She is a bit less traditional. But my father loved her. So not getting along with her, could create problems with him. Though father said she is a lot better about keeping her thoughts to herself in recent years. I'd like to think I am learning too. But its been a crazy few years." Swirling her drink, and taking a sip not making eye contact again to make sure she wasn't physically talking down to him. "If you'd like to make friends with my family we can talk. I am my father's heir, inheritor of his lands and titles. Being unmarried that also means no one else has claim to them. Unless that changes, you would end up working with me when my father is unable to maintain those relationships anymore. If you'd prefer to have me send letters back and forth with my father I will accommodate, But I do believe it would save us all some time and effort if you and I work together to get things going." Even without lands and funds, Kathryn had something that a lot of people didn't, and that was something that money alone couldn't buy. She was a young unmarried woman in her child bearing years with a string of titles and no heir of her own. Heir to her family titles, and with the right pulls, the lands that rightfully belong to her. "Let us have a good night tonight, but please think on my offer. I'm currently wintering down in the couch house if you'd like to talk. Apologies again for any negative interactions tonight. I'll behave better next time we cross paths." She spoke softly before taking a sip of her drink, and locking eyes with Monsieur Laurent. "You seem like a man I could learn a lot from." She said warmly before taking her leave. "I hope you will consider talks Monsieur Laurent. Until then." Kathryn said as she stepped away, a sway in her hips as she joined the tour.

As the tour began Victoria had made the mention of wanting too get a tour of what was going on in and next to the tasting room rather than the main tour. Kathryn would be lying if she said she wasn't curious too. Especially with all the weird events taking place recently. Though, apart of her wondered if now was the time to go poking about. First, she had been drinking. Second, Cecily seemed uneasy with the whole idea of that room and her father in laws working space. Maybe with less eyes on things. BB also brought up a rather valid point about the missing man. He could be hurt, or lost, or worse given recent weeks. Though Kathryn wanted to drink wine, tour, drink some more, enjoy her first date since she was 9 years old, that responsible part of her brain told her that she couldn't let this go unanswered. "Would you like some company BB?" Maybe they would find him quick, or maybe they would be able too catch up really fast? Or maybe he would barge right through the door before they left at all? But BB brought up a good point. It was getting weird. This whole place was getting fucking weird.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: N/A Location: Vineyard tasting room Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn was at the top of her world! She knew she could win pretty much any physical confrontation she found herself in, and could go toe to toe with most of the rest without much problem. And at worst, she could play it careful until an opportunity came to fight. She had friends and allies that could assist her in battles she couldn't win on her own. Social gatherings? Especially with people of elite status? That was a whole new ballpark and she was enjoying it to such a degree she wished she could do this every day. She did push back a little further against Laurent then she meant too. But the rude comments he was making, letting him stew in his own social defeat could hopefully blunt his ego for a bit. There seemed to be interest none the less though. Interest Kathryn could hopefully use to get what she wanted. Though what did she want? Specifically? She wanted power. But raw power could only do so much. She wasn't proficient in magic, she wasn't some godly being who could vaporize evil and heal those with good intentions using a touch, but she had a name. And she could enforce her name through paper and might. So what did she want specifically? Incomes. Strongholds. Resources. Fighting men. Large Plots of land. In her tipsy state, she chuckled at that last one. To the right people, the titles attached to her name were worth more than whole counties. Her father being well on the way to becoming an Earl, her titles hold weight. She still technically had a claim to her father's lands, but lacked resources to claim by legal right or by force of arms. The titles alone though especially if their rank could be transferred to a new home nation could still hold weight. Even if her father never made it to the rank of Earl. But she had a lead none the less.

"I do say, I wish you the best with your allergies. It is a shame when something you can't control forces you to bend over backwards to adjust to it." Had he been armed and armored Kathryn may have taken that slight with a bit more threats of duels. But it felt crummy to duel an old man without weapons. Even if he was being a bit of a snob. "Alright honey I gotta set you down now. I feel like drinking still." Setting Kosara down delicately, carefully, and making extra sure she would land on her feet, Kathryn bent back up to finish the drink in her hands. She wasn't a wine person normally. Especially expensive vintages. But she had to say, she was enjoying the wine. That is when she noticed that Laurent was going after Victoria. Kathryn's face turned quickly into disappointment and distrust. She took to large steps, only slowed by a third so she could stop in place to realize, Victoria had this. She remembered the poor sap outside the public house, and she knew Victoria could fight if she had too. As a whole, Kathryn had nothing to worry about when it came to Victoria. Relaxing, she poured herself another drink, swirled it around, and watched in amusement as Victoria also put the snob in his place. Kathryn did admit, she jumped a little with the crow when it appeared and promptly left. Once the moment had passed Kathryn quickly began to let out a long giggling laugh. "That was great." She laughed out between breaths. Maybe she went a little heavy to start, drinking before they came, having... a number of drinks since she arrived. But she was pacing herself! Mostly. She figured as long as she didn't do anything stupid she was fine. And maybe got her laughing under control. "I did... I did not expect that to happen. I didn't think I would jump so much from a bird holy shite..." She said as she forced her laughter to calm down.

Things got tense for a moment. Victoria had asked about the war that the good doctor had been apart of. She was... very bitter still. It was clearly a very sore spot for the older woman. Kathryn felt she should be comforting someone. But wasn't sure that she would do anything more than be an overwhelming presence for either Victoria or Floquet. Plus, she didn't leave the doctor's place with the best of terms. Kathryn made sure to give both woman space, but wasn't so sure on where that left her now. When the offering for trying another wine came up, Kathryn decided that is where she needed to be! Walking back over to Kosara Kathryn grabbed herself a small plate, cheese and crackers, cleansed her palette, and would get herself some of the wine Cecily was offering.

Late Harvest Reserve Honigblume. It was a mouthful, but when Kathryn tried it, she had to admit, it was definitely the best of the night. When Victoria spoke it again keeping just the end of the long name, Kathryn decided she liked that one far far better. "Must admit myself, I am not much of a wine lass. However, this batch has me second guessing that notion quite a bit." Kathryn said with a warm and pleased smile on her face. "Master Rens, you and your people have done wonders." She did hope his friend arrived soon too, she would love to thank him before things got too crazy. And before things got too silly. "Kosara, have you tried the wines yet? They're really good. Never thought I'd taste a wine I liked more than my whiskey's." She spoke softly with an inviting tone, making sure to offer Kosara a glass if she wanted one.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: N/A Location: Vineyard tasting room Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn caught bits and pieces of BB and Cecily's conversation about the weird locked door. Between all the other weird stuff going on in the vineyard, she worried if there was more. She worried what that more could be. She told herself she would follow it up, but not until it was safer to to do. For now, she would drink, she would verbally spar, she would hug her date close, drink again, and overall do her best for a pleasant evening. Looking over to Lizbeth she was glad to see the young bean adjusting so well to everything that had been happening. She was learning fast, and she was adjusting well. She wondered about moving to steel training weapons soon... It was a whole new league, but she was learning fast and winter would end eventually. There was no telling where the warm season would take Kathryn.

This was pretty close to the life Kathryn wanted from nobility. She had a cute woman wrapped in her arm, expensive drinks in her hands, positive yet surprisingly judgmental attention from people in power. Though she thought of Monsieur Laurent as kind of an ass, he was a traditionalist. One with resources and power, and seemed willing to part with some of it. Guessing by the rude remarks that Kathryn had to stop herself from chucking at she had an idea what. Reading the room wasn't her strong suit. She was someone who when she found a problem she dealt with it, but finding the problem was always a challenge for her. She didn't have great ability to read people, she knew she had the skills and strength to force her way through most problems, but the ones she couldn't required skills she was lacking. This, was her chance to change that. "My retainers?" Kathryn let a warm almost flattering smile pear through with a soft chuckle one might expect from a woman who found herself simply, amused. "I am afraid we are not that sort of adventuring party. I haven't gone through my roaming years with staff on payroll. I wanted the excitement, the challenge. I wanted to grow as a person, and learn to face my own problems." That wasn't far from the truth. Most of it was wishful thinking when she was left with little choice. "As for a husband, I am lacking there as well. I'm afraid things didn't work out with my original betrothal, and I was hoping to find a replacement in my roaming years. So far, I have this wonderful woman here." Kathryn said pulling Kosara close to herself, doing her best to make sure the smaller woman's horns didn't poke her. And doing her best to not be too rough with the smaller woman. She was tough, but Kathryn was leagues tougher. Last thing she wanted to do was hurt someone with that strength.

Kathryn figured she still had a chance to play her cards. She was young, though older than many noble woman got married, decently attractive with Victoria's help, and she hoped her height didn't detract too much from her goals. "If you happen to know any gentlemen of higher station still in need of a wife do let me know." She said sweetly. She almost said noblemen, but she wanted to leave just enough of a hook. She made it a point to not show interest in Monsieur Laurent, but wanted to leave room for doubt that someone like him or his sons could still win her over. If she showed how desperate she was, she could lose her first major lead in a long time. "As for my father, that would spoil the fun of being a Pyke." Kathryn said with the enthusiasm that only a young tipsy woman could share. "If you are unfamiliar with the concept, it is where noble youths of Arcanaple and her territories go on roaming years while trying to keep the bias of their family names at bay, and in some cases mitigate any shame they may bring due to their recklessness, while still retaining some of their noble privileges. It is a wonderful chance to make a name for one's self without competetors claiming that they are only where they are due to their name. I rather enjoy it, and so did my father. Being the man he was though, he spent nearly two years in Arcanaple's largest library. To each their own I guess." That offer he had though... She had to show interest without showing her cards. "However, what is the point of making a name for one's self if we don't wrap things up? Like Kosara said, if I am not suitable enough for your gratitude I will make sure to forward that to father when the time comes." She said in her most polite tone, though she wanted to add sarcasm to it. She wanted Monsieur Laurent to know if he insisted on waiting for her father, there would be a wait.

"Father knew better on these sort of things. What I do know is he would probably agree. Holding lands in the heart of Arcanaple, and in new frontier lands, and I am sure many other things that were a bit out of my wheel house." She paused a moment with the considerations. Taking a sip of some lovely wine, spending a moment enjoying the taste like Victoria showed her, she continued after much visible contemplation. "Establishing lands are expensive doings. Doing so again so soon after a recent land grab may be more than father is willing to do." taking another sip of wine, she continued doing her best to keep up being a proper noble lady. Though she was out of practice, and inexperienced, she had practice from years ago, and she had a refresher from Victoria. She was hoping the rest could be excused from alcohol. "I guess it depends what you would like in return for such an investment." She said as she pondered her drink some more, finishing it off and pouring another. "Much like the gratitudes, you're welcome to share them with me, or wait until the end of my roaming years to speak with father. Depending where the rest takes me." She tried her best to speak with a tipsy matter of fact.

As Kosara was getting ready to leave to try snacks and drinks Kathryn turned her around. "One second darling." Some of it was Kathryn's own boosted self confidence, some of it was the alcohol, some of it was just her overall good mood. But she pulled the tiefling woman in close hugging her close with both arms. "Mind grabbing me something to drink too? I want to sample a little more before the night carries on too far." Kathryn went to rest her head on the smaller woman's head, only to realize she had to really lean down to get her chin to tiefling woman's head, and still had to maneuver with the horns. SO far? Epic date. Letting the woman go she called out. "See you soon darling!" Kathryn tried to say as sweetly as she could. The confidence was rolling today! She felt she could take on the whole fucking world!

A gentleman soon came in introduced as the head winemaker of the property. He seemed pretty interesting as a whole, and Victoria already seemed to be working her bardic magic on the man. She hadn't seen Victoria flirt with anyone despite what she heard about bards, but maybe Victoria kept it in reserve as a final trump card to avoid tying herself down to a target? Or maybe there was a bigger game she was playing here? She would have to ask her at some point. When that wrapped up, BB had offered a new competition! As it seemed both Kathryn and BB had the ability to down the other if given the chance, something new was much appreciated. Except... "Bale tossing?" Kathryn said both confused and amused. "I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to win again, but..." Thankfully at this moment, Kosara had returned and Kathryn had an idea. "Thank you darling." Kathryn said taking the wine in one hand after setting her drink down, and while slowly taking a sip of the wine that... tasted like a really bad batch of wine, she scooped Kosara up with her other arm without looking away from her drink, and lifted the tiefling woman so she could sit comfortably on her shoulder while Kathryn finished off the drink in the glass. Then setting it down on the table. "I think we should find a competition that isn't a raw feat of strength." Kathryn said while supporting the tiefling woman on her flexing arm. In an ideal world she would have someone on her other arm, but alas she only had one date tonight. She wasn't sure if BB knew it either, but showing feats of strength in a dress was fucking hard. Especially ones with long sleeves.

When it came time for a toast to the big man himself, the one who had been running the vineyard until recently, who had indirectly set events in motion for some of the craziest months in Kathryn’s life, the man who Lizbeth almost died to transport, the man who seemed to have far bigger secrets than Kathryn herself, she gave a warm smile for the sake of the L’Rose family that had taken her in. Refilling her drink with something that didn't taste like slightly flavored water, she held the glass with her free hand while Kosara sat risen above all and answered the toast. “To Monsieur L’Rose!” she exclaimed. She had to stop letting her baseless fears and concerns rule her life.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: N/A Location: Couch House --> Vineyard tasting room Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Victoria's assistance with the makeup and prep work came a long way. As long as Kathryn could keep up her confident presentation it would be impossible for one to tell she was a fallen noble. But instead a woman in waiting who was a representative of her people, her household, and a figure worth looking upon. She felt good, she felt confident! She felt POWERFUL! "Thank you Victoria. I couldn't have done this without you." She had no idea how she could ever return the favor to her bardic friend. But she would be ever grateful even when the debt was paid. Should she ever return to a seat of power, she needed to know how to look and act the part, and Victoria has been a huge part in getting herself back up to par again. Kathryn was still unsure if she would ever be able to return to a seat of power, but the thought was nice. A thought she could enjoy for just tonight at least thanks to Victoria's help.

Walking confidently as close to a proper noble woman as she could manage, she recited the trainings she took when she was growing up. She practiced walks she saw other woman of higher stations on the day to day. She even paid attention to Victoria and added a bit of what she noticed from the bard into her step. The compliments were almost overwhelming at first, she had to fight not to break the show with heavy blushing and embarrassment. But she held firm. Her will tonight was stronger than ever. "I've had the dress for a bit less than a year now. It's a little difficult to travel with but it does well. I'm honestly surprised the thing still fits." Kathryn said as her tone began to break speaking to Blackberry. Praise of any kind left the woman who could physically beat a bear into submission about as flimsy as a wet noodle. But she recovered and continued to hold firm. "I mean... I did wear pajamas a couple times yeah?" She asked being a little literal. But she got the comment. It was rare for Kathryn to wear much other than her armor. And when it wasn't armor, it was thick padded clothing that protected her from physical harm, the cold, and also shielded anyone from being able to imply a figure she may or may not have. The dress she wore now was a rare occasion within a rare occasion. And it left Kathryn feeling rather... All sorts of things really. Womanly, soft, vulnerable, beautiful, and powerful in ways that she couldn't even imagine were real until she felt them herself. There was power in self confidence.

Kosara's reaction was so over the top that it could only have come from her! And again, she felt like her spine was turning into a wet noodle as she was inspected by her date. "You do? That's so cool! When Ser Lucas and I got the dress we wanted something that could still be used to represent my family's colors, but they're hard colors to make look nice on a dress. Mother used to always complain about it saying how our household colors really limited her options if she was to follow that tradition." Kathryn chuckled. But she was glad to hear that the dress was doing wonders! And thankfully, Kosara agreed to not suddenly sober up Kathryn unless she was on the path to do something Really problematic. "Thank you, on both counts. Its nice to have you watching my back." Kathryn said as the confidence began to return to her.

Kathryn turned to great Cecily and Lizbeth as they entered to escort them. "You both are looking rather lovely tonight, I love the matching themes you both have going." Kathryn then took a moment to note Lizbeth's whip on her hip. "Little curious on your belt there? Mine's a ceremonial piece. How about you?" Kathryn asked curiously her hand resting on the hilt of her sword. She didn't mind that Lizbeth was going armed, but was indeed curious. When given the chance, she would have to show Lizbeth how to fight with such weapons. The girl was clever enough to be good with it, and she was faster than Kathryn gave her credit for. Considering her size chances are that most people that she may come to blows with would be bigger than her. In most lands, woman tended to be smaller than men, and in most lands, men did much of the fighting. Even in cultures where woman were permitted to fight it was noticeable the difference in numbers unless the culture made it a point to break that norm. That still meant Lizbeth had to know how to fight people bigger and stronger than her. Kathryn was an exception on an exception and an extreme example at that. The whip seemed like a good counter. "I will happily get a head start to drinking." Kathryn said as she accepted Victoria's offer for some of the brandy that was recovered. And taking a few sips herself before she got going.

The walk up was nice, BB giving a recount of their duel that turned into more of a bullying match, Kosara on Kathryn's arm as they walked, and Lizbeth just having the time of her life! The night really couldn't get much better. Plus, Kat was on her first real date in her life! She had done practice dates before. And she had spent time with the boy she was supposed to marry. But even then, never a proper date. Hiding her excitement was a challenge of itself. "Like what BB said, any recommendations for our duels and challenges is much appreciated. I think we can only beat on each other so much before we start losing track of teeth." Kathryn joked. Plus, she got a little carried away last time, and had almost done some real harm to BB. She wondered about tug o war, but she wasn't so sure it would be fair either. Not that BB wasn't as strong as Kathryn. But... he wasn't. And Kathryn was a lot bigger. And could get bigger. It was an unfair game at the best of times.

Entering the winery through the gazebo was an adventure of its own. Kathryn was awe struck seeing the place and was mostly just surprised a place like this could exist under the property! It was absolutely huge! Kathryn listened closely through as they were given the tour, simply just excited to be present. It was all such a process that Kathryn really had to think about how much labor and patience when into her drinking problem. The answer? A lot probably. Would that slow down Kathryn? Probably not no. "Took me some time to put it together, but my father used to partake in some of your vintages. By the time they got to Arcanaple they were far from cheap, but he enjoyed them as a treat from time to time when we made it to port cities." Kathryn said enthusiastically when she saw a moment she could include her tidbit without interrupting Cecily. Entering the wine tasting room, Kathryn was almost in shock seeing the room. Though smaller than the previous rooms, she found herself almost in awe at the place. Though a little secluded, it felt perfect for a private event!

Kathryn would strut in like the honored guest she felt she was with Kosara's arm still wrapped in her own, and would graciously meet those introduced and reintroduced to them. Kathryn gave a polite curtsy to the Mosswaters with a warm smile on her face. Apart of her wondered if she was even recognizable without armor on? Then she realized that not many humans stood just shy of 7 foot tall, and figured that alone made her recognizable enough. "Pleasure to see you both again. I hope all is doing well." She spoke warmly and welcomely to the two land owners. Monsieur Laurent. He gave Kathryn an off feeling. Condescending almost. That is when it clicked for Kathryn. This arrogant prick who needed his land saving was looking down on her. He was the sort of person who should never be granted any form of power, yet by some terrible fate, here he was. It left a sour taste in Kathryn's mouth. Maybe she was bias, being of noble lineage herself, or bias because she found arrogant pricks annoying, but she wasn't warming up to him well. She didn't let it show on her face though. Once everyone was done with their introductions Kathryn spoke up to the man. "Please to meet you Monsieur Laurent. My name is Lady Kathryn Pyke of Arcanaple. Heiress to the family homesteads, and glad we were able to provide assistance in these concerning and confusing times." Kathryn would not admit subservience to this man. Nor would she allow herself to be treated as less than this man. He gave Kathryn the impression of a small man who needed to demean others to feel good about himself. Kathryn would do what she could to mitigate this tonight while not provocating the evening. First, by taking a seat directly next to the man. Kathryn would continue to be a shield for her party, and hopefully her presence could help keep the man's ego in check. In that moment, she realized how much power tripping pricks got to her. As long as her temper stayed in check she should be fine.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: N/A Location: Past: Madam Annick's healing house. Present: Rose River Vineyard Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn had gotten some answers. She wasn't sure if they were the answers she was looking for, or if she was the one with the right skills to do much with this information, but it was still a lot further than she was. Kathryn listened intently as Annick spoke of her times. The dagger seemed to cause more harm than help. Though Kathryn got answers, it did come at the cost of souring any good will the woman had for Kathryn. "Apologies for my ignorance. To my knowledge Arcanaple didn't participate in these wars. Most of what I know about these wars I learned only in the last couple weeks." Minutes... The last few minutes. "I am sorry to have made you uncomfortable in your space. It won't happen again. And thank you very much for your time and your knowledge." Kathryn said polity. Debating giving a curtsy, but decided that would make things worse, so collecting her things she stepped away and made her way home. The walk home was much quieter and much more thought provoking, but alas she wasn't really sure the best ways to go over this information. Maybe Kosara knew more? Maybe not... She had to take a next step though.

Back in the present after Kathryn had destroyed many of the remaining cinnamon rolls much to her guilt, she returned to her room to get ready. Owning only one dress at least picking out an outfit was easy. And to her pleasant surprise it still fit! She had grown at least 3 inches in height since she last wore it, and to her annoyance put on a little weight. Remembering the recently endangered cinnamon rolls, and her love of alcohol, she had no one to blame but herself. Using a short sword as a mirror Kathryn attempted to get a vibe for how she looked. She wanted to present as attractive yet not being too... slutty. Under normal circumstances her dress was probably fine, but she worried it made her bust look way too big. She wanted to draw a crowd, but didn't want to seem like an attention whore. She wanted too come across as powerful, but not terrifying. She absolutely loathed this balancing act.

While getting ready she decided she seemed rather... plain. Kathryn wasn't particularly amazing with makeup. She had helped some woman Ser Lucas spent time with applying foundation, but even then she was never good at it. When she attempted to propose a relationship with a household knight to a city state during her travels she had to get help from a couple prostitutes to get her makeup going. Alas, that went down hill rather fast. Catching Victoria while she was getting ready she asked the half elf for assistance. "I um... don't know how to do makeup..." Kathryn mumbled to the bard. "I can't even be sure if my dress is set up correctly... " As for as noble woman went, Kathryn was one of the least qualified. Sure, she could rough and tumble with the squires and knights just fine, but ladies of court? She stands out like a sort thumb that can't stop thumb wresting all the other fingers. Victoria seemed eager to help! Prettying up Kathryn so she would be able to step up to tonight's events with no conflicts whatsoever! With Victoria's help Kathryn could walk around like she owned the place, and have the humbled tone to acknowledge she was a guest happy to be involved. Looking at herself in the reflection of her short sword, Kathryn smiled. "Thank you so much V, I couldn't have done this without you." Kathryn said trying to hide just how super gleeful she was! And to prevent herself from crying tears of joy.

Kathryn made her way down the stairs in the court yard some time later. Her family's longsword on her side, the silvered dagger on one ankle, and a short sword strapped to the other. The last two hidden expertly under her skirt that ran to her ankles and then some. With Victoria's help, she felt like a noble woman. She felt a whole different sort of power that she hadn't experienced before. She felt she wielded an authority that though posture alone! She had the confidence of a woman who could walk into anywhere she chose and people would listen. Not that she had any actual authority. But the feeling was nice. In this moment she did wish the couch house had an internal stairway, for the chance to put on a grand show and have people bask in her confidence! She wondered briefly if this is how Victoria felt all the time? Surely so right? Stepping into the main pub she joined the others as they prepared to set out for the night. "It may be a mostly human holiday, but to my surprise Arcanaple doesn't really practice it. At least not in the same manner. A few families from more landed households may practice something comparable, or settlers who moved to Arcanaple bringing their culture with them, but winter is a harsh time for us. We have some summers that barely get warm enough to plant summer crops. Though some old clans would go on ritualistic hunting trips around mid winter. And every now and again my father would have us celebrate winter solstice as we had survived the shortest of days, and would soon be watching the days grow brighter and brighter." Kathryn spoke warmly. Though the old clans had other purposes for their old ritualistic hunts. For several families, it would become apparent that there wasn't enough food to feed everyone for the winter. The hunt would either yield enough food that everyone stood a chance, or it would provide less mouths to feed. It wasn't uncommon for old men, widowed uncles, sons with no claims to land, to gather up, and go into the woods and mountains to disappear until the spring thaw. Sometimes, the youngest would return with food in tow. Sometimes the uncles would travel far and wide to settle in larger towns far away from home, and sometimes old men would find themselves a nice comfortable spot in the mountains to live out the rest of their days in peace and isolation. It was a brighter spin on what for many families, could be very dark times.

When Victoria asked about plus ones, Kathryn's pale face blushed. Kosara spoke up and Kathryn found herself staring at the small tiefling woman's dress. It was surprisingly modest for Kosara, and when she mentioned she was going with Kathryn the tall woman's overt confidence faded into melted butter. "Yeah we are uh... going together." If her father was still alive, he would probably be pissed. Kathryn was far too old to go gallivanting dating people that couldn't knock her up. Unless Kosara could... Tieflings got more and more confusing the more Kathryn learned about them. But still. Kathryn was far from a position in life to be having kids. Even if she was behind. Hell, by most definitions she was homeless. The couch house will soon be the longest place she has stayed since she left the Capital of Arcanaple. She was pretty sure her record was half a year... but she was young then and the months and years float by so fast. "You look very nice tonight Kosara. Very nice." Kathryn took a deep breath and settled herself. She was a strong noble woman. Both physically and mentally. She was going to stay strong and not let anything knock her down. "Wine tasting is a lot of fun. But I do have to ask Kosara, don't Lesser Restoration me unless I am doing something dangerous or way too silly to recover from. Please?" Yes Kathryn had a tendency to get carried away sometimes... But also this was a party. And unless she was gonna get stabbed in the back she intended to have fun! This would... also be one of the few public outings she has had since she was a lot smaller that she wasn't wearing armor. But she wasn't going to let that thought wear her down. She was still armed! And the sword still had a rune carved into the hilt. Faded and old, but it was present. If she had to fight, she could. If someone dared to start trouble tonight, she was going to stab them.

"A toga isn't a terrible idea. Some families from the frontier lands would wear them for formal events." Not many as those people would stand out as late comers into the fold, but many persisted as time went on. Many were from families that had assisted Arcanaple in their conquests of the frontiers. It was an interesting setup, and togas were rather strange outfits to Kathryn. They seemed like... in a sense dresses. But who was she to judge? She wore steel plate and combat boots. And for years threw boys twice her age into the mud. Plus, dragons and togas seemed like they would go well together. "Do we all wanna walk up together or shall we all approach in our respective pairs to make a dramatic entrance? I'm afraid I don't have an announcer on retainer so we may have to improvise on that front." Kathryn chuckled. "Though I am curious, who are you two bringing to the event?" Kathryn said curiously to Victoria and Blackberry. "Or are Kosara and I going to be the only ones who share who our people shall be?" Kathryn smirked before turning to BB to lend a hand. Then stopped, realizing she was the least qualified to help out of everyone here. It was honestly a miracle she got herself into her armor and or dress as well as she did. "I'll help if I can, but I may end up making it worse far more than helping." Kathryn said as she kept her hands at bay.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: Exhaustion (x2) Location: Past: Madam Annick's healing house. Present: Rose River Vineyard Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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The Past

Subtlety isn't Kathryn's strong suit. Many could compare her to an oaf in terms of social skills and her personal dexterity. But that simply would not be accurate. Despite it all she could be rather sociable, and nimble. Even more nimble than average for a lot of people. But she was far from perfect. That combined with her massive size, and her rather awkward nature, meant being subtle was not a skill she was particularly great at. Kathryn had hoped to come here to learn, and learn she was determined to do. Madam Annick seemed to at least not be hostile towards Kathryn's inquisition. "If.... it is not too much to ask. Could I also inquire on if you know if any of the necromancers survived the war?" Sure, maybe that is something Kathryn could find in a book. But what book would one even start in to find that out? A book about the war? Reconstruction? Tales of those who survived? She figured her best lead was someone who was present. And she hoped to the gods she wasn't over stepping her boundaries. "Or any notables who worked for them? And please tell me if I am over stepping. The last thing I want to do is make you uncomfortable in your own place." Kathryn said as humbly as she could. Something that standing at nearly 7 feet tall was a challenge.

The Present

Cleaning up things at the the couch house from all the pastry making, the drinking, the baths, and much more, Kathryn was thankful for a chance to get some house work done. Sure, there was staff. But as she wasn't in a position to do her normal work, she wanted to do more than sit around all day. Especially with tonight's event... She wasn't sure what the best wear would be. Victoria asked about the formal wear, but even then, Kathryn only had the one dress. She wasn't even 100% sure she still fit in it... With that notion, she was already feeling embarrassed at the idea that the only dress she owns is too small for her. Kosara was going to wear her new wear, and bring presents? That sounded sweet! Kathryn had nothing in return though... Maybe she could work something out... "Gonna give us a hint what those present could be?" Kathryn teased. But was quickly caught off guard with Kosara's question of... if she would be Kosara's personal guest to the event tonight. Kathryn soon found herself unsure what to think. Was this Kosara being Kosara, or was she asking Kathryn out as something more?! How does one even ask such a question?! "I mean uh... yeah sure... like a date though or like... " Kathryn hadn't realized it at the time, but her face was rather flush, making her silvered eyes stand out even more as her voice pitched several octaves higher than it was used too. "Sounds cool... cool cool cool cool cool...." She trailed off.

"I'mma go and clean myself up then yeah?" Kathryn said her words nearly fusing together unsure what to say as she turned and sped walked into the kitchen. What if Kosara all along had been flirting with her and she had been far too dense to notice it? What if Kosara meant Really good friends all along?! Did she see Kosara that way? She had no clue... At least she didn't say anything too stupid this time. Before she realized it, she was nervous eating the leftover cinnamon rolls. Upon the realization of her second cinnamon roll, she swore a silent "Mother fucker..." and set it down. What did she do here? Who did she talk too? Lizbeth was far too young to understand the struggles Kathryn was going through... Victoria might understand... but she was excellent at social situations and people... Blackberry understood Kathryn pretty decently though, they spared a fair amount and despite the injuries that one of them maaaaay have caused on the other, she was sure they were still friends. So, BB or V.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: Exhaustion (x2) Location: Coach House Taproom Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn had a busy few weeks. Despite the concern of dead people crammed into barrels, things seemed to calm down and didn't get too weird since. She was still lacking answers though. To amend this, she needed to learn what she could about the southern deserts, the people who ruled over them, and who were the major players. Kathryn's own knowledge limited her rather drastically, but as a whole she was far from dim in this regard. With a little research she was able to think up a few key players. Including, but hopefully not limited too, Lords of Argentum, the Princes of the Southern Deserts, the Elves of Kyrilor. She knew little and less on these people. Other than the fact they were fuck you levels of rich. They were a good start to get things going. Some groups of dwarves and paladins came to mind, but she put them on lower priority and less likely suspects. But she would keep note of them just in case. She didn't have a lot of leads to filter out the wash of irrelevant information. So she would need to make a new lead. She vaguely remembered that Victoria's new teacher was a soldier during the necromancy wars. As this seemed related, Kathryn hopes she may be able to share some information. And maybe it would give her some answers to the weird dreams she has been having recently... She hated how related all of it seemed to be.

The investigation wasn't the only thing to take place, Kathryn still worked hard on her studies! And had been making solid progress on her notes. She was finally able to make out simple sentences without having to use her notes! Most of the time... But she still found herself relying on her notes to translate less and less! IF that wasn't progress she wasn't sure what was! Soon she would be able to fully translate the note they had found with the goblins. She hated not knowing what the deal with those little fuckers was. They were clearly up to something... more than just raiding. Unless some sort of factory lost a shipment of weapons a few months ago, none of it added up. And apart of her worried that she and the party were meant to come across the horrid beasts. Soon, she would have that note translated. Soon she would have her answers. For now, she waited and learned.

For more good news, Kathryn finally had her armor. With a fresh clean bath for herself, a nice polish work done by herself and Master Urmdrus and soon herself just to make sure it looked perfect, Kathryn found herself looking at her reflection in the window admiring a new woman. Stronger, more powerful, fiercer, prouder, and despite her lack of skills in dressing up and makeup, she thought she looked rather nice too. Overall, this was a huge win for Kathryn. Her confidence was booming and it showed. She felt she could take on the world! For now though, it would be the teenager.

Kathryn had not let up Lizbeth's training one bit. If anything, Kathryn got harder with it. Kathryn never let Lizbeth win, but she made it an effort to never just flatten her into the floor every time they practiced. She wanted the girl to learn. So Kathryn would call out attacks Lizbeth could make, and for a while even called out her own shots so Lizbeth could react to them. Now, that stopped. She expected Lizbeth to be able to register most of Kathryn's swings as she did so. After the first few bruises, Kathryn opted to layer some padding on Lizbeth's arms so that the swings Kathryn did hurt far less. Though she was holding back, Kathryn was still nearly 3 times Lizbeth's size, and no less than 10 times as strong. Kathryn's new addition of plate armor only made things more intense. During a day when the snow was light and shallow, Kathryn had approached in full armor with no weapons or shield in hand and had simply said "I am going to pick you up, and lay you down flat in the snow. Your goal is to stop me. Either by tiring me out, tripping me up, or preventing me from making contact. Understood?" And before Lizbeth could reply, Kathryn began an aggressive march over to the small bean. The shallow snow not slowing her down one bit. At first Lizbeth had worked on keeping distance and maneuvering under low branches to slow Kathryn down, but as Kathryn failed to slow and had used her strength and size to muscle her way through every obstacles that Lizbeth maneuvered around. Letting Kathryn get closer and closer. It wasn't until Kathryn went to grab Lizbeth's arm that the teenager took her first swing, knocking away Kathryn's hand before she could pin Lizbeth to the snow. "Good job. Now keep it up." Kathryn refused to slow, muscling her way through obstacles, and blocking Lizbeth's wooden sword with her armored forearms, speaking up only occasionally to give Lizbeth advice on how to face off against a larger opponent. "Many people who are good at fighting are big, strong, and are used to being able to push about people smaller than them. You need to know how to face off against them." During one of these advice strips, Kathryn had walked through a cluster of branches Lizbeth had passed through in an attempt to slow Kathryn down, and Kathryn began walking through it as if it were snow in the wind, only to get tripped up on a sudden but short drop that had tripped up Kathryn sending her face down into the snow. Before Kathryn could get up to continue, she felt the wooden sword whacking her repeatedly on the back of her helmet. Lured into a trap via her own arrogance. It was clear Lizbeth was far better prepared to battle people bigger than herself than she gave her credit for. "Shit Fuck Hell alright alright I yield. You win." Kathryn spoke up surprised, proud, and confused all at the same times. And for the first time since training began, Lizbeth had gotten a victory over Kathryn.

Kathryn also figured she was overdue for a rematch against Blackberry. An opponent who could not only go toe to toe with her, but also had won their past duel when Kathryn underestimated him. SO! She was only going to pull punches enough to not cause any permanent injuries. She was ready to win! A time and place was set, and soon there would be a rematch.

It seemed things were going great with the estate as well! Cecily had approached the party and offered them to join her in wine tasting! Not just any wine tasting! Tasting older years of the batches that were about to be released now! "That would be so wonderful! I can't wait!" The problem, she had no guests to bring. They were all present. She had no family (At least none that shared a name with her household), she had no friends who were outside of the party, and she had no lovers. She was pretty sure most of the rest of the party was in the same boat. But she couldn't be sure, and wondered if for a brief moment if she would be the only one going by herself. What if she was the awkward lonely alcoholic of a girl being edgy on the back wall of the party?! Shite... But maybe others didn't have people to invite either? She didn't know, and figured she should probably not depend on that to save her pride. "I don't practice Frostval personally, but it seems like something fun to participate in!" A holiday involving booze? What was there to not love.

With Lizbeth's training going well, the goblin learning going also acceptably, Kathryn wanted to show her party that she could in fact be of great help other than just raw muscle and her ability to win in battles. Most of the time. First! She had gone to Victoria with the intentions to see her new teacher Annick the healer. Though it took a moment for Victoria to realize it wasn't a jest, she seemed to agree. Hearing how uneasy the woman got with strangers Kathryn also wanted to make the best first impression possible. Apart of her debated grabbing her dress and wearing that over. But she figured that would make her uncomfortable, and visibly so. Giving bad vibes seemed like a great way to not make friends. So, full armor, but with the proper colored talberd over it to give it the best looks possible. Make her seem powerful without seeming intimidating. That is when Kathryn was most confident, and she wanted to be confident, but not arrogant. So no booze... Shame. But necessary. Next! Treats, Cinnamon buns! Kathryn heard the old war vet loved cinnamon, so why not lean that way but with a sweet treat? Not being an expert baker as of yet, Kathryn did opt for some help from Kosara. And honestly? Kathryn found baking with Kosara some excellent fun! Even if some more moments may have played out that made Kathryn question is her friend was a bit of a perv or just sweet and innocent in the most confusing ways possible. With enough made for her bribes of friendship and a few leftover, Kathryn thanked Kosara, and made sure she was ready to face the old vet. "Thank you Kosara! I'll let you know how it all goes! Same some rolls for me though!" Kathryn spoke up on her way out. The temptation to snack on all the cinnamon rolls now was ever present... But she must resist. To help her case, Kathryn made sure to grab some of the bug meat that was left over from the great battle as an offering. They had gone through a bit, but they still had some left. Though Kathryn figured she was probably one of the bigger reasons they had gone so much... she enjoyed her snacks...

The road to the hamlet was long, but considering the fact that Kathryn wasn't carrying 1200lbs of wine today, it was more of a casual stride for her. No working out, no battles to the imitation death with Lizbeth this morning, and she honestly slept rather well! With a little bit of a moral boost from Victoria in the ways of her magic music, Kathryn felt ready to take on the world! Or at least talk face to face with an old war medic. Things were looking optimistic! Walking in with Victoria also gave Kathryn a bit of a boost. Though it was clear by the way Kathryn would go on her worrisome ramblings during the whole walk, seemingly without taking a breath, she was a little concerned with making a bad impression. So when Kathryn finally approached the house at the edge of town, isolated in the woods, she was able to hold her warm smile as she knocked politely on the door. Though dressed in full armor, her helm sat buckled to her belt so her head was visible and it was easier to see her as friendly. Kathryn waited for permission to enter, and when doing so did so slowly, and with both hands visible. One hand holding a burlap sack, and the other gently and slowly off to her side to ease the door open, and too then grin the top of the bag with her other hand. Kathryn even came in lightly equipped by her standards today. Taking only her family sword that hung on her belt on one side, the hammer which hung on the other, and the boot dagger. Though fitted with the belts, straps, and buckles across her person, everything fit together rather nicely.

"Hello Madam Annick." Kathryn said with a polite curtsy before returning eye contact and a warm smile again. "My name is Lady Kathryn Pyke. I hear some good things about you." She spoke gleefully, but did her best to not lay it on thick. She was really excited to be here. This was like a mini adventure in her journey as she tried to piece little bits and bobs together. "I wanted to thank you for your time today, I know you're a busy woman so I wanted to bring my thanks. My friend and I made some cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven this morning, and I brought some of our Ankheg jerky too in case you were interested. I hear it's a great treat though out of season. Still, I thought you might like it." Kathryn said. Unsure if it would be better to hand the woman the bag, or to take the treats out individually and give them to her. Kathryn opted to give the woman the bag, if she didn't want to take it in hand, Kathryn could find a surface that was hopefully out of the way to leave it. "I must admit... I do come here with motives outside of just meeting an impressive individual with experiences that... I don't think I could match in five lifetimes." She spoke sheepishly as she pondered the best ways to approach these questions, so she figured she could start simple. "I was wondering if I could ask you some questions about the necromancy wars." She said bluntly, figuring beating around the bush would be the last thing that could help her. But she didn't want to encroach more than she had too until she knew it was safe to do so.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: Exhaustion (x2) Location: Coach House Taproom Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn rather enjoyed being a bit buzzed. It numbed the aches and pains caused from a long night of hard labor, boosted her confidence, and she honestly liked the taste of alcohol to probably an unhealthy degree. Yes, she would have to moderate, and yes she was very bad at it, but she was working on it! And this was a winter vacation! Turning more and more into a series of potential problems... Problems which could and should be totally dulled by alcohol! Kathryn being as relaxed as she was, enjoying her snacks and fine wines, didn't take full note of what Victoria was saying at first. But when the thinking gears began to turn! The old thinker soon kicked into full power! "For once, I think this makes me the smart one of the group." Kathryn said with an ever so confident grin on her face as she picked up one of the daggers. Kathryn's air of confidence was soon wore down with the words she was beginning to dread. "Lesser, Restoration." Suddenly Kathryn felt much more aware of her surroundings, and all the aches and pains she was trying to dull returned. "What the fuck dude..." Kathryn mumbled to her friend in a weak defeated tone. "I ain't throwing people out windows yet, that seemed so unnecessary!" Sure, maybe that thin line Kosara was talking about was hard for Kathryn to recognize when she was drinking. But dayum. "We don't even get a morning! I am going to bed soon!" Kathryn said the exhaustion trying to fight back. Alas, the tiefling woman had robbed Kathryn of her ignorant bliss and the erosion of her social filter. Maybe if she drank fast while Kosara was cooking she could hide the tipsy-ness? Only time would tell.

"Where was I..." Kathryn said taking another bite of morty trying to think again. "The short and sweet version? These here are some old, and a rather high commodity. Giving out to nobles for gifts sort of thing. Skilled smiths could maaaaaaybe replicate it in the right conditions? But it takes years of training, practice, specific steel and iron qualities, and is overall considered a rather dated process to make blades. Still doable, but they're also not locally made. At least by anyone native to the region. Along those lines, it can probably all be traced back to the southern deserts. Even then, if you're not upper class, chances are you won't ever lay your hands on something like this. Unless you can throw a lot of money at your problems." Kathryn said with an air of confidence normally only seen when she is either extremely buzzed, or violently removing the head of some poor bloke with a blunt weapon. "What makes these blades even more strange? They're made of Yasmin steel. Probably related to the otherwise out of date metal working skills here." Kathryn said pondering the dagger over. A vicious blade, one that would absolutely be hung up in a library or in a private room. Taking a few sips of her brandy, looking over her shoulder to make sure Kosara wouldn't stop her, Kathryn continued. "These are the sort of weapons people obtain to be flashy. Not only because they look pretty, but they are expensive, and are so well made they get their own myths and legends about them." So what the fuck were 5 undead dudes doing with them. Only to explode and lose them. Same for the clothes. Are they gifts? Traps? Curses? Apart of Kathryn did want to pull a prank, touch one of the blades and pretend to lose her mind. But she was tired, and so was everyone else. Also she didn't want to get blasted in the back with some sort of magic beam.

As Kathryn listened in to what Blackberry had to say about updates, Kathryn sighed with defeat again. This vacation was turning out more and more weird as it went on. Finishing the brandy in the waterskin Kathryn sighed again. She'd drink to sleep tonight, but fuck she'd kill for a hot meal. If her bones didn't ache so much it felt like the muscles would slide off any moment she would go make something. But alas, she was hurting, she was tired, and the alcohol she used to numb her aches and pains also made her tired. There was simply no winning in the life of a noble half giant. "Sending it back could be hard... If Victoria or Kosara didn't find more instructions... I suppose we wait..." Looking over to Lizbeth, she wondered if she should mention the need to ask Cecily. There was something weird going on here, and maybe she knew, or maybe she didn't. While Lizbeth was so... stressed out seemed the best word, Kathryn wouldn't risk bringing that sort of burden on the small bean.

When Blackberry and Victoria brought up the sheer self importance of whoever sent these... creatures. Kathryn couldn't help but bring up her long lost past. "When I was little. Like, half of Lizbeth's age. Maybe a tad older..." Kathryn stopped to ponder, took a sip of the sweet red she grabbed, and set the bottle back down. "My parents took me to this huge ball in the capital. When I say huge, I mean my parents had a new dress made for me, and my mother got her best dress out of storage for this event. The big reason for the ball was basically a massive consolidation of power by the king. Rewarding loyalist, making sure the right houses got the new lands, and making sure everyone had the allies they needed to hold onto new claims. To do that, lots of us tikes were to be married off to one another. A mix of tightening our new holdings, and to help prevent too much infighting while everything was sorted out." Kathryn paused a moment, trying to consider how to word the next part. "My dress was nice, but I was little, and had a tendency to play in the dirt a lot. My mother's dress? I swore that night she was the most beautiful woman in all the world that night. Both of us were dressed in all of our best silks. Hell's I think my father and brother were as well. The point being, us, a noble house that wasn't huge, but by no means was small, all got to wear some rather fine and nice silks. A lot of them." She couldn't remember if any of her other siblings wore silks... or if they were even there...

Then Kathryn pointed sharply to the piles of silks that Victoria had cleaned off and brought in. "That right there is more silken garbs than my family had mustered up for potentially one of the most influential weekends of our house's span. And it is being used on undead envoys. With some of the most expensive short blades I have ever seen. This is someone who wants the world to know they have money to burn." And if you play your cards right, some of it may even be yours. She figured the others understood that part. But someone who had this sort of wealth to just burn, also had the means to take so much more. When that realization hit Kathryn, she was definitely unsettled. The plus side about being tipsy again, it was a lot easier to hide the fear.

As Blackberry went over to check in on Lizbeth, Kathryn worried she may have added way too much stress and hardship to the small bean, already struggling enough. Kosara had soon announced the need for assistance with carrying out the platters, Kathryn would take this chance to walk into the kitchen to help Kosara bring out plate after plate. Thinking of ways to help the small bean as she did so. And hiding the fact that she had already gotten herself a bit drunk again from Kosara. When an idea hit her! "Hey Lizbeth, you know we got a lot of silks here. Maybe we can see about getting it sized into some fine garbs? I own a dress but it's nothing fancy, and I am pretty sure its just a fancier version of those dresses tavern woman wear to get better tips." Kathryn jested trying to help cheer up Lizbeth. "I know nothing about sizing up clothing, but I am sure we could figure something out yeah?" Kathryn asked optimistically. "Not tonight though... Tonight... or today I guess, We all could use a nap. Or a short term coma. But when we are all feeling rested up, we can all work on some fines clothes together, and maybe Blackberry can tell us how big his eggs will be when he lays them!" Kathryn said full of joy and excitement, though the last comment seemed less like a jest than the one before. Taking another sip of the sweet wine, it appeared that was also gone. Maaaaaybe she also got carried away with that too.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: Exhaustion (x2) Location: Coach House Courtyard --> Coach House Taproom Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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With the bits and pieces all set aside inside of the barrel, Kathryn felt assured that soon this whole mess would be behind them. Surely no more dead people would come to be creepy when Kathryn and Kosara burned them all to bits. That is at least the logic Kathryn's have burnt out mind could muster. Kathryn made no attempt to stop Kosara from digging through the corpse pieces. She would however, try her best to not be sick as she watched Kosara. On the plus side, Kosara seemed to have a better idea of what was going on with the dead people than Kathryn did. Though she still seemed inconclusive. Shame, but at least Kosara had better ideas than Kathryn. "Whatever be the cause its still weird. I don't trust them one bit." But alas, Kathryn was ready to torch the bits and be done with it.

That was until a sharp tone Kathryn hadn't heard before spoke up. Kathryn already had her dagger in her hand before the bird could finish its challenged sentence. Eyes wide, clearly a little jumpy, Kathryn locked eyes with the dagger prepped to launch. Seeing Victoria's bird and waiting for it to speak, Kathryn slowly lowered the dagger, and soon sank it back into her boot. Tired, confused, and attempting to process the situation, Kathryn sighed. There would be no barrel burnings yet. "I guess hot tea sounds rather nice..." Kathryn spoke exhausted and defeated. But hot tea did sound nice... Maybe something to nibble on too. A night of hard work without treats and snacks was difficult. Kosara and Victoria had won. Despite Kathryn's aversion to ransacking the dead, they both had a point. They may have clues, evidence, and other important bits of information. Or in Kosara's case, more loot. The bodies would have to wait.

"Yeah lets deal with the bodies later..." Kosara did bring up a good point on removing the bits from public eye just in case. So barrel by barrel Kathryn moved the bits back to the workers quarters. Only to trip up on the last barrel as she set it down inside the windowless room. Though she was able to save the barrel from tipping and spilling, she collapsed to a knee to have her cheek land on the bits on the top of the barrel. Reacting quick, Kathryn jumped up, ran out of the room into the court yard and began hacking and gagging reflexively as she gained distance. "Fuck fuck fuck fuck no no nu uh." She mumbled as she calmed herself. Thankfully nothing came up, but she was still shaken. "[color=roleplayerguild.com/topics/186855-avo… just get inside...[/color]" Kathryn mumbled to Kosara as a couple small frozen specs were still stuck to her cheek.

In her half tired state, Kathryn hadn't adjusted herself to the doorway, and in retaliation for the wooden frame hitting her in the head as she entered she sharply replied with a fist hitting the frame, backed up with the words. "Dick Fucker." She spoke as she continued walking in, and seemed to relax rubbing the sore spot on her head and grabbing a cup of tea. "Did we miss anything interesting?" Kathryn asked tired and defeated. To accompany this feeling, Kathryn went over to the barrel of brandy that had been recovered a bit ago, and poured herself a pint before setting it on the counter, looking at it, and decided what would go great with it, is a bottle of sweet red. Thankfully, she had one of those opened from a previous evening. A few sips from the red to get started, a plate full of some left over Morty bits, and a mug of brandy, and Kathryn was ready to take on the day!

Then she saw it, the sweet biscuits. "Ooooooh... those look good." She said with a lot more energy than she had previously held. Nothing could stop Kathryn from getting her hands on treats. Shy of maybe someone rather sternly telling her no. "Hey BB is it cool if I have some of those?" Kathryn tried to ask in her best sweet innocent lass tone. And to her excitement, the dragonborn said yes! "THANKS!" Kathryn spoke up and took 3 long steps to get to the tray, shoved one in her mouth, chewed twice, and shoved another in her mouth. The biggest grin on her face, comparable to a child in a candy store being told she was allowed free reign of the sweets. With a third treat in hand, and the first two barely chewed, she stopped, looked around rather shamefully, and sat herself down. Slowing her excited chewing pace she finished until she swallowed and meekly spoke up. "...sorry..." She said the shyness winning over. To wash down her shame she began drinking down the brandy. Nothing cured awkwardness and guilt more than booze!

Kathryn with her array of drinks, Morty bits she snacked on, and buzzed enough to be ready to nap Kathryn spoke up again. "By chance, do we have any easy to make food still left? Soup? Stew?" Kathryn figured that making drinking when she was tired after a long night of work with no food in her system outside of Morty was a bit of a risk. To prevent more trouble like previously, she figured she should address that. "Also, Victoria, were you able to translate that letter at all? Anything we gotta worry about from the Barrel Brigade?" Kathryn spoke with a toothy smile as if she had delivered the best joke.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: Exhaustion (x2) Location: Coach House Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn prepared herself for a combat situation. A situation which she was most skilled. As she gained experienced her training and strength would soon make her unmatched against any other humanoid. A force to be reckoned with. So opening the door to find out that this problem was not one to be settled with blades and fists, but brooms and dustpans, Kathryn was a little disappointed. She had never done well with traditionally woman's chores. She couldn't clean that well, she was barely passable with a broom, and the only dishes she ever learned how to clean were camping supplies. Its not to say that she was useless, or that she thought herself above such work. But it was work she was ill suited for, and it was work that she rather didn't enjoy. Fighting was fun, clean up? Less so. Growing up kitchen work was sort of fun, but she also had a crush on one of the serving girls in her parents kitchen. Before she really understood why she had feelings for a woman she only spoke too a few times. Kathryn figured she had a stronger attraction to woman then men, but not an exclusive attraction. But also, Daisy gave her cookies. A lot. And for a woman who focused more on her work than on her ability to be beautiful, she was rather attractive. But, she was 9, and she learned later that Daisy was in fact, married. Probably best considering that her father rather harshly exclaimed that she was not only forbidden from marrying a commoner, but needed to marry someone who could give her an heir someday. And, she was way too young to be attempting to find spouses.

All of this did not change the fact that Kathryn loathed the kind of work that didn't come from camping, and from fighting. "yeah we're definitely gonna need a spade and a broom." Kathryn said as she dragged a barrel over, grabbing a shovel from behind it. "I've seen whole bodies explode a couple times before. But it required a lot of force... from a man far larger, stronger, and a lot more violent than myself." Albeit, Kathryn was rather violent herself when fighting. But her uncle was something... more. The assassins who had come for her while she pleaded her case? One had been... exploded. Had been lifted by his leg, and slapped against a stone tower with enough force that all that was left was his leg. The other was probably not an assassin, but someone who decided he wanted a ton of praise from his lords. When Kathryn's case had gone sour, and things were clearly turning against her, a band of soldiers without their marked crests had stopped her and her uncle. Harsh words were spoken, and the officer clearly intended to capture Kathryn and her uncle. That officer who was leading this band of soldiers with hidden allegiances drew his weapon, and clearly intended for his men to do the same. Kathryn's uncle made an example of the man by growing to his full height, and pulling the officer in half with his bare hands. The others backed off after that, but it became another hurdle to work over while Kathryn pleaded her case. A battle that at the age of 10 she stood no real chance of winning. "But that explosion, was nothing like this. They were stiff when we loaded them, but not... not like glass. Like... well... corpses." Kathryn said puzzled as she set up the barrel to be filled with undead people bits.

As Kathryn began to sweep poorly, and shovel marginally better the bits of undead people pieces, she turned to Kosara to speak up. "I suppose if you really want some of this clothing you should grab it before it fills the barrel with the... the bits." Kathryn said rather uncomfortable. She really didn't like the idea of taking clothes off the dead. Even less so since these corpses seemed rather cursed. Sure, the clothes were nice, sure, maaaaaaybe she could try and fashion a half decent dress that could fit her and look nice. Hell, with the right pins, knots, and pieces, she could make a rather attractive dress that could compliment her figure rather well. But corpse clothes, silk wasn't very protective, she had little understanding of fabrics and how to use them, and she worried that she may come across as rather indecent should she begin wearing clothes like that around the lands. Plus, there were no special events here going on that would warrant such apparel. And there was no one here she was trying to woo over.

Should Kosara dig through the bits of... bits. Kathryn would let her. But she wanted to get this job done asap before her legs failed her. She wanted nothing more than to drink, sit down, and pretend everything would be okay from here. And maybe devour some tasty food... breaded chicken? A real sandwich? Steak? Gods she would kill for some steaks and mashed potatoes. Or even some good tomato soup for something easy and warm to down. A nice cheese sandwich to go with it... FOCUS! Whatever Kosara didn't pick out, Kathryn had shoveled into a barrel and dragged it into the yard. "Kosara, when you're ready, we got a barrel of dead people chunks to burn." Kathryn sang songed. And wondered for a brief moment if the exhaustion was starting to wear on her sanity as they prepared the bonfire of corpse dust. "I wonder if they froze and exploded because they weren't outside or in sunlight anymore.... seemed weird though... why explode into pieces now..." Kathryn pondered looking at the barrel.