Shoe Thief

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 43 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: Another Growth spirt Location: Old Distillery Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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So far the investigation into this weird place had yielded little results. What it had yielded, was a rather large stock of alcohol, something Kat would never turn down. After sampling a cup, Victoria even joined her as well! As a whole, solid win. Even when Blackberry seemed to disapprove on her antics. "Who in their right mind would poison or curse all this brandy? And to get enough resources to sabotage this much alcohol? Someone would have to be pretty petty or spiteful." Kathryn said confidently, before looking over at the bodies of the duo who were locked in the cellar here. Looking at them, looking at the drink in her hands, she decided that maybe two people trapped in here would be that spiteful... But alas, She and Victoria were still fine. "Plus, the barrels were sealed. If they were the cause of the wild magic, shouldn't we have seen another boon of magic take place when the barrel was opened?" She said rather confidently towards Blackberry. Though internally, she had no idea how this sort of magic worked. And maybe apart of her wanted to be ignorant so she could keep drinking a tad bit more.

After clearing her throat, taking another sip of the brandy, Kathryn figured she should probably do some to help figure out more about this place. First taking attempts to read labels on the barrels, and to also see if she could maybe find shipment papers. And hell, if she could learn anything from tasting the drinks? Even better!! Apart of her was tempted to open another barrel to see if it came across as any different, but she held off for now. She didn't want to risk spoiling the brandy by opening them all up. IF Victoria said was true, these were worth a small fortune to the L'Rose family. Confirming the label on the side, it was definitely theirs at one point... Maybe she should go easier. After this cup though. She also after spending several moments, failed to find much in the form of documentation on the barrels. "I am not finding anything here for records for these barrels and their contents. But like our much dead friends here, they have been here a long time. If I had to guess, likely pretty fresh when they were loaded up, and sealed since." Maybe it was standard practice, but maybe she could figure out a way to use it to tell how long the bodies were here. There's no way they were here longer than the barrels were. So that would at least be a maximum window to work with.

On a more light hearted side of things, Kosara seemed to really be enjoying her new flowers. "Those flowers look good on you Kosara. Really fit with..." she stumbled for a moment, thinking of her words. If she was ever going to return to nobility, she would have to work on this. "With you. They fit you rather well." She said sweetly. "We could probably find a way to braid them into your hair so they look a little less random? Unless you're into the randomness of it. But it could be fun non the less." And as well, she wanted friends to socialize with. Kosara is the closest Kathryn has had to a proper friend in a long time. The previous closest attempting being a woman Kat later learned to be... An aid to Ser Lucas. While he was out working, Kat was trying to dress up and make herself pretty for a big event for the regional nobility. The desperate attempt to reinforce her noble titles. Go to dance, introduce herself to a knight or lordling, get married, obtain power, get justice. Catalina was the one who finally helped her work up the courage to do this, and she had goofed it when she panicked thinking of her whole life ahead of herself with this knight. And had blurted out a random step along her life plans. Alas, her proposal was likely declined. And though Catalina reassured her things were fine, and amusing, she and Ser Lucas had to flee as Kat had overstepped some boundaries. She hadn't seen the woman since. And hoped she was well. Kosara on the other hand was here right now! So having a chance to compliment her friend and keep reassuring that friendship was a win to Kat. She probably wouldn't take dating advice from the tiefling woman though. She seemed a little on the immature side for that. But she was fun to spend time with.

Kathryn's attempts to reassure friendship were quickly ended when she heard a rather sudden and startling flash of light and sound. She jumped back far more steps than she would like to admit, drew a hand axe, and looked ready for a fight. Thankfully, not thrown. Upon seeing Blackberry recover from a rather violent looking sneeze Kat slid the axe back into its spot on her belt. "Are you alright my guy? That sounded lethal." She paused, looking around the room filled with well aged brandy. "Potentially very lethal..." She said considering just how concentrated the juices in the barrels must be. "Let's uh... no blow up. In small confined rooms." To be fair looking about, the room wasn't as packed as it could have been. She figured she could still fit in most of the room in her Runic Giant's form. Likely at least.

The last leg of the investigation yielded different results. Or more concerning, lack there of. Kathryn watched as Victoria cast her spell, and nothing seemed to happen. Kathryn didn't know a ton of magic, but between Victoria's confusion, backberry's concern, Kat was worried that things were about to kick off. "Are they too dead maybe?" But as Blackberry pushed forward, she wondered if maybe the opposite was the case. "Or not dead enough..." Kat mused. Locking her helmet back on. And making sure her shield and hammer were ready. A cold shiver went up Kat's back though as Blackberry poked the dead fellow in the eye socket. "ew..." The warrior half giant mumbled as she looked for a good way to approach. There wasn't enough space to travel through the group, especially with Blackberry already in the way. So she would go around the other barrels to be able to approach the likely less than dead things from the other angle.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 43 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: Another Growth spirt Location: Wall thing --> Old Distillery Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn understood that much of her skills for the party consisted of her ability to wield All the weapons, and her ability to fight well with them. Her ability to physically overpower her foes came in handy often, as for many enemies it removed that option for them entierly. Otherwise, she didn't have too many skills to offer to the party. Raw strength helped, but not as often as she would like. She had the introduction to a high quality formal education, but never finished. She wasn't as dumb as a rock, but she wasn't the wisest either. She wasn't fast or agile, but she wasn't slow either. She supposed she could reach the top shelves for her shorter party members? But with magic many had a work around for that too. So when the chance came to literally brute force the dirt until a doorway appeared, Kathryn was excited! Sure, she wasn't the best of laborers, but she was strong as an ox and wasn't afraid of a little dirt. Though thinking on it, she was probably stronger than an ox. As well, she had more than just a little dirt on her. "damn... there's dirt packed into the links." She muttered. Doing manual labor in full armor after getting into a one on one with Blackberry was exhausting, and her concern with taking off her armor were hindering her probably more than it was helping to keep it on.

Her thoughts on keeping the armor on when she saw the reinforced door bar from the outside were reassured though. But as the party was already likely to go in despite concerns, Kat simply attached her helm, gripped her shield, and kept a hand on her hammer taking point and preparing to face off against whatever poor sap had been locked in here. Or monster. She wondered what could be in here? Treasure? Undead? Mimics? Could mimics survive so long on their own bared down here? She wasn't too sure. An old prison maybe? Or simply an abandoned building that the locals wanted to deter kids from exploring? She was determined to find out! Thankfully, the exterior once bared door was for all intents and purposes, not a problem. The second door, was still very much intact. And could present a problem or two. Until she saw... it was open. Creepy. Taking the edge of her shield, she prepared to face whatever came out head on. And if need be send it deeper into the dirt. But nothing came. At least... not a monster, or a humanoid.

Kathryn wasn't sure what she saw. But... there was something for sure. She was still getting used to dark vision with assistance of her runic magic. And the gentle glow from her hammer made it even easier to see in the dark. Other than more exaggerated shadows, it was almost like looking at things in the daylight. But there was... a gust of wind? Or maybe... a ghost! Kat reflexively swung the hammer, missing entirely the non existent target and taking a small chip out of the wall. She didn't swing too hard in the confined space, not wanting to risk a cave in. But whatever it was, she had missed it and probably looked like a paranoid fool. She stood up strait, attempting to move on from the situation. Until... "Thunk" She paused a moment, confused. She hadn't changed her footing, and unless the tunnel was about to cave in, she didn't understand how she could have hit the ceiling? "Ow?" Kathryn spoke in a confused tone. She wasn't in any sort of pain, just shocked as she tried to process what was happening. Did the tunnel get narrower as she walked along?

The weird ceiling wasn't the only notable thing that had happened. Blackberry was... shinier?! Kosara had flowers in her hair?! Though... Kosara may have done that while they were working in the dirt. She would have to check to be sure. But Victoria had probably the most noticeable change to Kathryn. She was taller! Visibly taller! She couldn't be too sure without measuring, but the short woman had gotten average! "V, I think you're taller..." She paused, then looked up to the ceiling and let out a frustrated sigh after thinking for a moment. "Mother fucker... I'm taller too!" She exclaimed when she put the dots together. Maybe not as much as Victoria, or maybe because Victoria was so short in comparison to Kat that the same height change is more noticeable on the smaller woman was more noticeable. Did this mean she was over 7 foot now? That would be at least 4 inches in half as many weeks! She was joking when she said she was a half giant, but now she is concerned that she may not stop growing! Problem for later though. For now... weird underground room.

Kat moved on into the next room prepared for... whatever may be there. She first noticed the two corpses in the room, and wondered if they were intentionally trapped in the room. The room also appeared to be a storage cellar of some kind. Putting the hammer away, she walked up to the closest body to see what she could tell on the corpse. The answer? She wasn't so sure. They had definitely been here a really long time. Past that she had no clue. She had no idea how long though. Listening to Kosara's line of questions Kathryn soon spoke up as well. "No one I spoke too knew either. But, it looks like it used to be apart of the winery. Maybe someone knows of the old distillery, even if not the wall as we described it?" A chance to rephrase the question could help ten fold. But for now, they would have to figure out their own answers. Taking a chance to get buzzed, Kathryn grabbed some tools from a nearby shelf, opened up a barrel, and poured herself a cup of what definitely smelled like alcohol. "Can't say I know a ton about wild magic... but what if it's not a one time thing? And passing through will cause other effects?" Kat asked pouring herself a cup of the strange alcohol. "Or, what if we find a way to trigger it again?" Kat said right before taking a few very long sips of the wine. Rather good wine at that! Though... familiar. She sampled a few flavors to be sure, and no matter what, the booze was a win.

"I think this is still the L'Rose brand of wine. This one tastes a lot like the one I had the other day that paired so well with Morty." Pondering that, she would have to ask if there was much left of Morty. He was a great treat, and nothing tastes sweeter than loyalty. "Can't say I know much on the corpses. Though I am concerned that they were locked in here. The fact that it is a storage room is even more concerning. This is not a small inventory of expensive alcohol. So maybe it was a rush job? But why seal these two inside? There has to be some history on this somewhere right?" Kat asked concern. But pondering what Victoria said about something causing a buildup of magic. "You don't think that the alcohol could be causing the magic build up do you? Because it's either that or the bodies. And dead bodies to my understanding, are rarely a source of magic." She supposed there could be some sort of magical artifact hidden away in here. But she wanted to know if she just drank 100ccs of raw magic.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 26 --> 43 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: N/A Location: Gazebo Patio --> Couch house --> Wall thing Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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They were in fact not training weapons that Lizbeth had been carrying for Kat. A small great sword, used for home defense and for executions, and a magical warhammer taken from a cheeky warlock constable. That was what Kathryn saw as good instruments to a sparing match. Albeit, she did end up losing. Partially because she went to try and disable Blackberry instead of outright punishing him physically. And partially because she didn't think he would be able to effectively retaliate against her. She was also wrong there, and both herself and Lizbeth would learn a lesson at being humble, and to never underestimate your opponents. And to never get too full of yourself. "If you have the time Lizbeth, I would recommend talking with Blackberry here on some of his skills. Any other bloke in his situation would be in a rough spot or in a real battle, dead. And not only did he save himself in that case, he had me on the back foot immediately." She said admiring the monk's abilities. Then with a big grin on her face, she turned to face Blackberry as she slid the hammer back onto her belt. "Next time, I won't underestimate you. And I'll kick your ass!" She sang song in the most musical of tones to the dragon-born monk. He hit far harder than she thought someone of his stature could hit with their bare hands. Well... magic flying ghost hands.

Giving a quick stretch audibly cracking a few joints as she bent about, she turned to Blackberry and spoke up. "Here, you still got pretty bruised up." She approached Blackberry and waited until he was ready for whatever treatment she could provide. "Lizbeth, watch closely. I may not be the best doctor, but its good to know these sort of things just in case you gotta help out from time to time too." The correct response was she had absolutely no training in this regard. Only what she had seen Ser Lucas pull off when he was treating his wounds and hers. But taking a cloth she wet from her pack, she attempted to treat the places she had attempted to flatten him. And even did some lite bandaging work on him to make sure nothing would fall out of place. She didn't think she hit him that hard. Buuuuut, better safe than sorry. "Like I said. Nothing fancy. But it should help over time yeah?" She asked more than told, a little unsure of herself. In turn, to a little discomfort of Kat, she allowed Blackberry to do the same to her. Patching up her injuries she sustained and recovering from the blows she took.

"Training may do you some good. Doesn't hurt to have a few extra tricks up your sleeve, or to be able to strike an opponent harder than they can hit you." She said confidently. Maaaaybe she wasn't as lady like as a lot of noble woman. But she could hit harder than a lot of people who wanted to do harm to those around her. That came in handy a lot. Even if as a deterrent to more violence. "I think you're right. We should catch up to the others. While at the couch house maybe pick up a broom or shovel. If the wall is old enough, there may be debris blocking some fun stuff!" Kathryn said very excitingly. "That, and if we end up digging I'd rather not do it with my bare hands." She mused before standing up stretching again. The audible crack echoing from her back. "Ow.... was waiting for that to go..." She mumbled as she bent over to stretch more, and stood up right. "On our way lets ask about see if anyone knows about this weird structure? Sure like you said we don't have an exact spot, but I am sure if anyone knows something we can figure it out."

Off on adventure again, Kat asked about learning not as much as she would hope. She did learn of the underground wine making section, and how it could be accessed not too far from the Gazebo that Blackberry and herself beat the ribs out of each other not too long ago. Kathryn would take Lizbeth with her to investigate should she want to come more, but this time not to act as a pack mule for all of her gear. Grabbing a broom, a pair of shovels, a trowel, and some weird metallic poker looking thing, she walked off encouraging Blackberry and Lizbeth to follow. "Come on my fellow adventurers! Let us explore! Daylight is a burning!" The half giant exclaimed carrying her full kit and an assortment of tools she had gathered up.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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

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

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The morning was delightfully crisp with a freshness that snatched the breath from a persons lungs and delighted in showing it off in short lived clouds. White snow bounced the bright sunshine back up into the crystal blue sky. It was a marvellous day for a battle. Kathryn was the first of the combatants to arrive at the Gazebo patio, with her faithful squire-int-training Lizbeth carrying the knights great sword and hammer behind her. A few pairs of eyes had caught sight of the armour shining in the sunlight and their owners were now hurriedly either tidying up their tasks or calling over to others nearby in excitement. A small crowd began to form in the fringes and edges of the patio with a few exchanging words and coinage with eachother.

Lady Kathryn cast a well trained eye over the patio while she waited patiently for her opponent to finish jogging up the freshly cleared path towards her. The knight waited for BlackBerry to set foot upon the patio before she nodded with a grin, then turned and moved away from him to point about 30 feet away on the other side of the patio. The blue dragon born came to a stop wearing his own excited grin as he began hoping from foot to foot, twisting his torso, and stretching out each limb in preparation.
Lisbeth stood turning her head between the two combatants.

"Until someone yields right? Let's not hold back. As long as no one suffers anything permanent I think we'll be okay. But I promise to not light you on fire yeah? I hope that same courtesy goes both ways." Kathryn said in a calm manner, a giddy smile on her face. The tall woman just loved a good fight.

“The terms are most reasonable and I agree to them.” BlackBerry called back after one more twist. “I do say it would be no fun if either party were to hold back.”

To start things off, she locked the helmet to her head as she held out her hand for Lizbeth to have her weapon brought to her. At which point, the young squire scurried over and, after juggling the equipment in her arms, held out the sheathed greatsword. Kathryn pulled the sword from its sheath, the polished castle forged steel sword glistening in the sunlight. The snow and ice particles on the ground making it seem to glow further. But to those who knew a thing or two about swords, this wasn't a sword intended for duels. The flat tipped blade was a style popular amongst executioners. The sharp sound it made as it was pulled from the sheath sending a metallic echo across the patio. Despite it's rough looking shape a few weeks ago, some clean up, and the few chips and scratches still visible made the blade look more experienced than worn. A blade with the sole purpose of killing the enemies of Kathryn's home. "Gods I've been waiting to do that." With a smile on her face, she placed the "Decorative" blade back into its sheath. Taking the hammer from the same belt that Lizbeth was holding. Removing the shield and cape from her back, and equipping herself for battle. She faced Blackberry. "Are you ready?" She said surprisingly warmly despite the friendly battle about to take place.

The battered DragonBorn pursed his lips eyeing the weapon in Lady Kathryns hand. His head tilted to the side and he momentarily paused as the only inkling of doubt evident on him. His hand went to the belt holding the Viscious Shortsword to his waist and, undoing the clasp, wrangled the sword into his grip which with a quick flick spun the tightly around the guard and handle. “Now, I am ready.” Then, without taking his eyes of the Knight, he called out. “Young Lizbeth. If you would be so kind as to count us down from three please.”

The young squire nearly bounced with excitement from behind the Knight. She didn’t need asking twice, and with a grin called out. “Three!”

BlackBerry softened his knees and fell into his stance.

“Two!”

Lady Kathryn secured her grip on the Warhammer.

“One!”

The combatants locked eyes. Their hearts beating as one.

“Fight!”

BlackBerry powered forwards with powered snow erupting behind him, struggling to keep up with his speed. The monk pulled at the power sitting at his core and pulled it into the world for Spectral Fire to blossom out from his shoulders like wings. He planted a foot down hard on the ground, coming to a dead stop in front of Kathryn, but the spectral force at his shoulders continued on and washed harmlessly over the shining armour. BlackBerry scowled up at the knight who dared stand tall, unaffected by his spectral attack. He changed tactic. The spectral force retreated, instead he lashed out with the sheathed sword, stabbing with the same motion trained by his opponent, up and high towards the target only for it to bounce harmlessly off the armour without any fuss. Back to basics, the left fiery limb curled in on itself, edges rounding into the vague shape of fingers rounding into a fist. With blinding speed the limb snapped forward and the hit landed with a dull ring against the metal chest piece.
Kathryn found herself unprepared for the blows and attacks Blackberry had at his disposal. She wasn't sure what to expect from her dragonborn friend, but it was clear that maybe he had a trick or two up his sleeve.
“Your Turn dear Kn-” BlackBerry started. He didn’t get to finish the sentence.

The second Kathryn got a moment to strike back, she did, and hard. Stepping back a pair of steps, she then shifted her weight forward for the six or so steps it would take to close the distance between the duo. In that time, her height changed from nearly 7 foot, to nearly 14 feet. Swinging the hammer like an underhanded instrument, she struck BlackBerry in his lower torso like a pin in some sick game of alleyways! But as he fell backwards from the blow she had struck him with, she used her speed and power, assisted with the force of Gravity and brought the blunt weapon down again on his chest. Yes, he had a good hit, but she hit harder.
"You can yield at any time, there's no shame in it." She said with a soft and warm tone as she reeled back the hammer to strike the down BB again. It was a shame really, she was looking forward to a solid fight.

The hammer had come down on his torso. Hard. The air had been forced out of his lungs, and a dull ‘crunch’ could be heard. The crowd gave a low ‘ooh’ and not just one cheer. BlackBerry, finding himself suddenly horizontal, fought against instinct to curl up in pain. Instead, when the hammer rose he flung himself to the side and with a hard kick of his left leg spun back upright onto his feet. Darkness circled the edges of his vision, he fought to drag into his lungs, he had to act fast.

“Good hit.” BlackBerry wheezed as he circled Kathryn. His eyes hunting for a weakness in the knights defenses. He had underestimated her by a long shot. This wasn't going to be as easy as the other night. “I was using that rib.” Not to say he wasn’t going to try. He knew speed was he real advantage right now. BlackBerry Knew he couldn't let up for an instant; another hit and he'd have to concede! Against the pain in his ribs he dragged in another breath to fuel the fire in his being. The flames around his shoulders surged to a roaring inferno. He step forward to close the gap between them. The left lashed out but missed, the right however struck the knights helmet making it ring.

But he didn't let up, BlackBerry flicked the sword in his grip again and making it spin. He grabbed the handle and charged at Kathryn who showed off her own fleet footwork and manoeuvred around the attack with ease. BlackBerry followed her steps and lunged again.

Kathryn had clearly underestimated the monk. And was now in a surprising amount of pain. Though she was able to block many of his attacks, and Blackberry's blade had trouble doing much against her armour, those magic fists hit hard. Really, fucking hard. But something about that last blow…she had seen the left fiery limb curl around BlackBerry’s arm and flow across the swords sheathe to where it struck at the centre of her chest, felt the hit collide with her armour. But then she felt the strike again without BlackBerry moving for another attack, her training and experience distinguishing the second blow hidden somehow in the first. Her muscles seized up, like a muscle spasm. She bent back as her body was unable to respond to anything but pain. Nothing but pain. What had BB done to her?! Had he meant to do that?! If so could he always do that?! Maybe Kathryn underestimated her opponent. A fight she thought would be quick and easy, was quickly turning on her head. Then, he stepped back with a grin an forks of lightning dancing frantically across sharp white teeth. All she could think was... Oh shit. BlackBerry let out a yell unleashing a torrent of lightning towards her. The electrical breath struck her and her body continued to only respond in pain. She failed to take the fight seriously, and now she was getting the shite beaten out of her. She fought to regain control, but that last blast had taken a ton out of her. She felt weak and dizzy, unsure how much more she could take. Not wanting this fight to escalate, and not ready to take any more tricks that blackberry had up his sleeves she found the strength to speak up. "Wow wow wow." She called out regaining her balance. "Alright my guy, I yield. You won." She said in a cheerful tone. Yeah, she lost a fight she thought she was going to win by a landslide. But she still had fun. Shrinking back down to her normal size.

“Beg your pardon?” Small sparks jumped across his puzzled face. He looked Lady Kathryn up and down wondering for a moment if he had heard her right. And then realised he had heard her correctly as he watched her shrink back down to normal height. After laying his sword, with only a small amount of complaint from his ribs, he stepped forwards to lend a hand catching the arcs of lightning trying to jump across the seams in Kathryns armour. “Here one moment, allow me. I find lightning does try to reach the ground by any means, and if it gets stuck it will give a nasty shock if you are not resistant to it.” He patted the Knights armour as if he were simply wiping away dust. “A simply marvellous fight Lady Kathryn. I truly mean it when I say you land one hell of a hit.” He winced and rubbed his stomach and then bit back a cry when his hand touched a very sore rib "One more and I would be the one conceding.”

"You're a good fighter my guy. And you have far more tricks up your sleeves than I thought." She said patting him on the shoulder, a satisfied grin on her face. Turning to Lizbeth she continued. "Let this be a lesson in humility. Never underestimate your opponent. And be a good sport when you lose." She chuckled before turning back to Blackberry. "Now I know however, I can hit you a little harder next time." She said in a sweet tone still, but clearly excited to try again in the future. "Not today though, I gotta rest and see how bad that damage you dealt to me was." She chuckled removing her helm, and her charged hair magnetizing to her helm as she pulled it off. Only the weight of her braid keeping most of it in place.

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: On route to Gazebo Patio Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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And what a week it had been. After her failure at breakfast the other day, Kathryn shied away from everyone for the rest of breakfast. Attempting to hide the embarrassment and the taste of cheese. She did her best to correct her manners after The Incident, but the damage had been done. Thankfully! The week was passing at a good rate, and soon everyone had their own problems to worry about! Kathryn would work on her physical condition a fair amount through the week, carrying as much as she could and taking it as far as she could for as long as she could. With mixed results. Twice in the week she had to set down the barrels she used for weights prematurely. She kicked herself for that and would make up for the failure with pull ups using the railing to the stairs up to the second floor, and with crunches until she was flat in the dirt.

She went easier on herself when Lizbeth was with her. In part because every muscle in her body ached all the time now. As well, she didn't want to give Lizbeth the impression she was trying to show her up. "We're going to work on endurance and stamina a lot this winter. Adrenalin can carry you pretty far in a fight but the last thing you want to do is collapse due to exhaustion. And when you're fighting, you're not just pushing your own limits, but so is whoever you're fighting. If they can't beat you in a strait fight, they'll work on breaking you down until you can't fight anymore." Kathryn said trying to educate the young Lizbeth during their workouts. But Kathryn wanting to have fun with this girl who was like a sibling to her wanted to do more than pushing physical limits.

After a few days of doing discipline and physical work, Kathryn brought Lizbeth to the base of the lookout tower she had explored her first day here. "Now, we're not quite ready for proper fighting training yet. Buuuuuuuut..." Kathryn said with a less than subtle hint of excitement. "We're not far from that point either." Kathryn said giddy like a little girl! Kathryn pulled out the short sword from the back of her belt and laid it out on top of a flat stone by the two woman. Then she pulled her family great sword from her hip and laid it out by it. Still chipped in places, and scratched to hell, the old blade looked like it had seen a thousand battles. "I have a duel coming up in a few days here. And I would love for you to be my squire for this event. I don't expect it to be a particularly challenging fight, but Baronfjørd may have a few tricks up his sleeves. Normally squires help set up armor, polish and clean weapons, and hand a knight their gear and supplies as needed. Wine and water when in need of a drink, a sword when fighting, and to assist a knight in problem solving difficult situations. Granted, we're not going the full thing here. Proper squire and knight training takes a long time. For all intents and purposes, you'd be my assistant before I kick Blackberry's ass in a fight." Kathryn chuckled, rather full of herself.

Kathryn then sat down on a nearby stone, and picked up her family sword from the flat rock. "However, you should know how to maintain a weapon. And mine is in need of a lot of love at the moment." She said a bit embarrassed. "SO this is a good chance to show you how to do so." For much of the rest of the day Kathryn would show Lizbeth how to oil, clean, and sharpen a sword. Letting the small girl work on Kathryn's short sword which was already in pretty new condition. After some hours of showing Lizbeth how to maintain her gear, Kathryn then pulled out a pair of wooden swords, a little longer than a short sword, but by no definition a long sword. And a pair of very simple made shields. "These wont serve you in a proper fight. But it'll probably be safer to train with than blunted swords. When I kept insisting to my parents I wanted to learn to fight, my uncle agreed to teach me. That day he had the blacksmith make two long swords and told him to not sharpen the blades." She chuckled at the nostalgia for a moment. "I got to dance at the spring harvest ball with my hand wrapped up to let it heal. And it was the funnest winter I have ever had." She said with a giddy expression. Much of the rest of the week was spent on much the same. Pushing physical limits, polishing armor, and by the tail end of the week, Kathryn was showing Lizbeth the basics of stances to use with a sword. Even showing her how to counter and block attacks. As a whole, a productive week.

The rest of the week was pretty simple for Kat. Working out, long walks and jogs, finding new places to get a good view, the works. Though at one point Master Urmdrus had surprised her cutting her off with a rope and a stool in hand. Kathryn froze in shock as the smith began to measure her. But not before letting out a surprised "Eeep!" In a pitch way higher than someone her size would normally make. But after a brief recommendation to pee more and a quick measurement, the moment had passed without further incident. But this wasn't her only interaction with the dwarf this week. Earlier, she had approached his shop to work on the training weapons that she and Lizbeth would be using together while Lizbeth learned to handle a blade. She had asked the man a few questions here and there, but she wasn't really sure the best routes to go about them.

While working in the shop setting up the practice weapons that her and Lizbeth would use later in the week, Kathryn turned up to listen to the smith talk about the bug armor he was crafting. "So like... totally acid proof? I suppose if we come across more of those things we'll be in a much better spot. The way they hit us before was pretty brutal. But their acid attacks were the real killer in that fight. Plus, the idea of not being melted like a lit candle on a hot day sounds rather nice." Kathryn joked unable to help herself to the small jest. Realizing the joke may not be as funny to him as to herself. Changing the topic Kathryn moved onto other matters. "So, I haven't seen a lot of dwarves in my lifetime. But you seem... different." Kathryn wasn't sure the best way to ask the question, but curiosity was winning out in this case. She had a solid admiration for the dwarf. He was a skilled trade worker, an experienced warrior, and despite all of that, he was still willing to teach young Lizbeth how to fend for herself. She had seen many people fit that bill, who would never do such a thing as to show a young woman how to fight. Either due to cultural social norms, or due to the fear that they may experience what they had when it was their turn for war. To see Master Urmdrus help Lizbeth was a huge win in her book.

The rest of Kathryn's week wasn't as exciting. The rest was spent working out by herself, drinking, and reading. Lots, and lots of reading. A question she still hasn't been able to find an answer for. A question that has only gotten more complicated the more she thought on it. The goblins. The question had many parts to solve though. Why were they there? They clearly weren't some random bandits. They were also too well equipped, how did they get said gear? What the hell were they doing with old runic magic? Old runic magic which its origins can be traced back to across the world? With little to no sightings from there to here? It's not something that can just find itself somewhere random. A private library of a former traveler or merchant? Maybe. But a pack of well equipped goblins? Something was up. She already had some suspicions on the goblins to begin with due to the nature of their quest. But now? What were the chances that magic that that was considered outdated and rare in her homeland, where it's roots began, found its way out here? From her homeland. The place she was trying to avoid. She spent hours every night, dedicating herself to learning more about this situation. She needed answers.

Kathryn was finally allowed a moment of respite. Something relaxing to calm her nerves as the week drew to an end. A duel until one yielded. With arguably the only person in the party who could go toe to toe with her in melee. Baronfjørd "Blackberry" Chedgusah. Walking up in full gear with Lizbeth in tow, who got the privilege to hold her sword in it's sheath, and the hammer attached to it's same belt. She briefly saw Kosara and Victoria as she walked her way to the Gazebo patio. Kathryn's powerful stride broke to a stop when she overheard what Kosara was explaining. "I uh... Yeah that sounds pretty weird huh. But sounds fun to explore. First, Blackberry has brought a fate onto himself that only he will understand the true cost." Kathryn said confidently. "You're both welcome to watch Blackberry and I beat the shite out of each other down by the Gazebos. Lizbeth will be my acting squire for the event. And, I am expecting a rather fun time." Kathryn said proudly with a grand old smile on her face.

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: Patio Breakfast Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn found herself giddy as a princess picking out her dress for her first ever ball. That was if the ball was breakfast, the dress was a tasty omelette, and she was closer to a half giant murder drone than a princess many days. Calming herself, as she was supposed to be the lady of the party, Kathryn straitened her posture and attempted to act more professional. She then waited until V was wrapped up with her order before Kathryn made her own. "Once you are done there, if it is no trouble my good sir, a six egg omelette, with plenty of cheese. Peppers, grilled onions, and a meat product of your choice." Kathryn said in her most polite lady like tone. "Thank you ever so much." She said in a sweet tone. Kathryn held a lot of respect for people with skills. Skills had to be learned, and earned. The skills she shared with others, she understood what it took to obtain those skills. Those skills she doesn't currently posses, and has little chance to obtain, she held a whole different respect for. She hoped this chef understood his value.

Kathryn listened to Cecily closely as she spoke about her future. She seemed so unsure of it, but it seemed like Cecily and Lizbeth got along great? Why was that such a huge concern for the woman that she may not have this as a home someday. "You seem really worried about being forced to leave here someday? I doubt Lizbeth has any plans to get rid of you once she takes over. Plus, you seem like a great caretaker of the property. You both have far more skills at such a thing than I do." Kathryn said with a reassuring smile towards Cecily, but was hoping that her assumptions were right. "I'll admit, I should probably improve my skills there. For an heiress my property management skills are lacking. Unless it's clearing a storm cellar of ale, or challenging and accepting duels, I don't have a ton of people managing skills. But that is a long way off from now." That part wasn't exactly true. As of this point it was non existent. She lacked money, supporters, an army, and no backing of nobility to lay claim to her titles and lands. And acquiring new lands would be nearly impossible without the rest. And though it was still on her mind, she tried her best to not let that part of her life that she lost get in the way of the life she was living now.

What she did have however, was Victoria. Who thought wasn't a lady in title, she was as close as someone could be to a lady in practice! At least out of those Kathryn knew. Maybe she could learn a thing or two from her mini friend? And maybe Kat could return the favor to the small woman? Victoria's actions seemed to be deliberate. And not just because she was actually practiced in being a well mannered woman, but because... Maybe she was trying to help? The eye contact she made helped to confirm that. As Victoria made her motions, Kathryn did her best to imitate them. She had the foundation of the skill to follow them, but she was very out of practice. The skills she picked up from Ser Lucas mostly consisted of bar brawling, sword fighting, drinking, and how to make a fool of one's self in front of someone you tried to romance. Kathryn followed closely, paying more attention to V than her own actions, but began using the right utensils, organized her dishware, placed her napkins neatly and gingerly, and went at a pace of eating that didn't imply she was a starving child or a looter looking for a quick meal. Had she been wearing a dress, hadn't just come back from a run, and had put in the effort from the beginning, she could have passed as a noble woman, visiting her supporters as they discussed their plans for the year. Kathryn found herself so ingrained in the moment, she didn't notice when her fork missed her plate, and stuck one of the serving plates with a block of cheese on it. With eyes firmly locked onto V, Kathryn brought a not so small block of cheese up to her mouth, and pushed it partially in. Kathryn realized the mistake she made far too late to correct it though. Deciding it was better to finish what she started and act like nothing happened rather than spit out most of a block of cheese, she simply kept swallowing the block of cheese until her lips closed around the fork, and her cheeks looked like that of a chipmunk preparing to hide a stash of food for the winter. Slowly and awkwardly Kathryn chewed, now unable to break eye contact with V as she panicked making the situation worse. After what seemed like forever, she had finally chewed the cheese enough to swallow a few times to deal with her mistake. "'Cuse me...." She muttered as she pounded her chest briefly. Then paused, remembering her manners. "Excuse me." She said correcting herself, before letting out a loud and defining belch to be heard by all on the river. "...sorry..." she muttered meekly. Face beat red, Kathryn finally found herself able to turn away from everyone while she found a way to salvage the situation. Finding none, she tried to turn to other matters hoping this incident would pass fast.

It seemed a lot of things were going on at once here and there giving Kathryn an out hopefully. When she asked Kosara if she wanted to try some coffee, the tall woman almost didn't notice that Kosara was watching her... intently. The tall woman couldn't quite make out the face. Was she angry? Upset? Thinking too hard? Oh gods... what if she was flirting?! And if she was what if it was real flirting and not just Kosara being Kosara?! Where flirtatious actions were just the norm for her instead of flirting?! Kathryn unsure what to make of the situation, simply smiled holding up the cup of coffee with a big toothy grin on her face. "Understandable. You enjoy your tea, I will enjoy this... Coffee." She said hesitantly before taking another sip, seemingly regretting it, and then taking another sip to wash it down, and the tasty cheesy taste of embarrassment. "Dancing sounds like it would be a lot of fun. Never been a good once myself, though my father made sure I picked up some dances when I was younger. Funny enough, my mother even agreed I should learn to dance. One of the few things that they ever agreed on." Kathryn listened intently as Kosara and V explained their winter plans. She had to think a bit what she wanted to do though. "I guess over the winter myself, I am just going to keep training myself. There is always room for improvement. Maybe smith up a couple training weapons for Lizbeth and I to use so neither of us get hurt too badly while we train." Kathryn commented to the smaller girl. "And if we're not too worried about marching and the giving and taking of orders, we can work mostly on how to fight and defend yourself. It'll be interesting as I doubt Lizbeth and I will have the same fighting styles. But I am fairly familiar with many forms of combat. I can set Lizbeth up and she can figure out what is most comfortable to her." Kathryn stopped and pondered it some more. "Otherwise I am just likely to explore a bit like Kosara. But mine will be more as a workout than anything. Could be nice to slow down from time to time though." Kathryn said a bit excited for the winter. She loved the snow herself. And absolutely wanted to build snow forts, throw snow balls, and see what could be found in this winter wonderland!

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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

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Kathryn arrived later than she would have liked. Missing a chunk of the fun gossip, but thankfully not too much. Though seeing that much of it wasn't the fun kind of gossip, maybe it was best that she missed some of it. Kathryn walked up just as Lizbeth was talking about how much of her family had passed since she grew up. It was heart breaking. And unlike most people present, Kathryn understood what it was like to suffer such losses at such a young age. She wished she could do more to help the small woman. But maybe she could help out at least some. She was going to teach her how to defend herself, and with the kind of misfortune that has fallen onto her family, that had to mean something. Maybe she could defend herself should she be attacked, or even deter any attempts just by people knowing what she was capable of. Hopefully that could help the poor woman. It seemed the L'Rose curse only got worse as it turned out so much of the family had passed over time, leaving now... only Cecily and Lizbeth it seemed. But Kathryn listened on in sympathy. Not pity though, she worried for the people here. "It's a rough spot you find yourselves in. But you both seem like you have good heads on your shoulders. And don't discredit yourself Cecily, you're a very attractive woman. I'm sure if you wanted too you could find a wonderful suitor for yourself." Kathryn complimented the woman. There was no reason to put down someone who had been so accommodating to her and the party. It helped that she was a rather attractive woman.

Kathryn also found herself a woman of simple wants. She wanted the feeling of the rush she felt when she fought. She wanted to live in a grand castle with court yards, multiple keeps, several high towers, a great hall, lesser halls, and to have the power and respect that came with such a home. But in those simple tastes and wants she had, was a good breakfast. As Kathryn saw the sprawling food laid out before them it was difficult to not just dig in before anyone else could respond! "Cecily, Lizbeth. This is simply to much. This is a feast fit for a queen and her closest companions." Kathryn let out still trying to process their wonderful treatment. A dumbfounded smile on her face to help emphasize her pure shock. "I mean well.. Like Thank you!" She said still giddy with excitement! Yes the bits of Morty she had while on her walk were nice and all, even if it seemed weirdly familiar. She would have more later to try it again, see if she could place it. But this... this was a feast! Kathryn quickly got a plate and began loading it up with a little bit of everything! Like a starved child entering a candy store and being told they could keep whatever they could get onto their plate.

When Kosara and Blackberry stepped over with fresh flatbread, Kathryn swore she was going to melt! "These will go great with breakfast Kosara. In fact... I wonder if we could put an omelette inside it and wrap it up!" Kathryn was in full thinking with her stomach mode. But if she was going to be offered such a treat, something like she hadn't been able to experience since being a little girl, she was for sure going to take it. She then paused, looking at all the jams, honey, and other syrup like products on the table. DAMMIT! She thought. If she used the flatbread for the omelette then what would she put all the jams and such onto?! But then she saw it! The heavy crusted bread! She quickly went to work taking a couple pieces of that bread, and piling all a mix of... every single jam jelly and honey onto these pieces of wheat made food. The half giant eager to try all the sweets. As she worked on it, she enjoyed several boiled eggs, nearly swallowing them whole as they went. When Blackberry offered up about tea and milk, Kathryn had to disprove that theory as she stopped, chewed, and made sure her mouth was clear as she tried to respond. "Eh-hm" She coughed up clearing her throat. "Yes please. Tea sounds rather lovely at the minute." But some weird smell caught her nose. Something she may have smelled before... but not recently. And not something she could recognize at first. It was coming from a nearby kettle. Pouring some of the drink, the dark liquid smells both enticing, and smelled of warning. Taking a sip, she reflexively wasn't amused. The bitter taste contrasting the sweetness of the jams she was looking forward too. But curious, she tried another sip. Still hating it, but growing on her. She would continue to take small sips of the weird drink each time seeming to be visibly not pleased with the taste, but almost unable to stop herself. A few more sips and she found herself hooked. Soon setting down the weird dark and hot drink before she burned herself.

"Kosara! You have to try this drink. It tastes so bitter but its so good! I can't explain it!" The coffee in question wasn't a common luxury in Arcanaple. It was a rare treat for the wealthy lords who could afford to import it. Though sometimes her father would get her hands on some, it wasn't something to waste on a child who wasn't even allowed into political and war meetings. As Kathryn continued to prepare her rampage of the table, she stopped when she overheard Victoria asking about etiquette. Mother fucker. Kathryn's impulsive side had won out again. She was unable to wait for longer than a moment before her short attention span took over. Shamefully, she slowed herself, and found a comfortable seat near where she was piling up her breakfast. Took a napkin, arranged her silverware, and acted rather like a proper noble woman as she began to set up. Like V though, she would also wait to enjoy breakfast (Even more so) until she had a better idea of the proper etiquette to follow.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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

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Kathryn pondered what Kosara said. And in all honesty she was probably right. Though Kathryn had seen a desert briefly she had never been inside of one for longer than a couple days. Chances of it being the same desert were astronomically small. "I know there is a desert not too far from Arcanaple. But I don't remember the name of it for the life of me." That honestly surprised her with how much her uncle talked about it. He had called it the last campaign to secure the frontiers. Where he and several other nobleman led a series of small hosts into the dunes to fight some king in the sands in retaliation for his raid into the frontier lands. He said though they were successful it was a costly victory. Several of the smaller groups hadn't even been able to make it to siege the settlement the king called home. Some from dehydration, getting lost, or attacked by raiders, desert beasts, and small war bands sent to slow them down. Others had taken such a beating when first entering the desert that they had to turn back. May died in the siege itself to many of the same fates. "I don't think it is the same desert. I'd imagine if it was we would both know of each other's people a little better." Kathryn also didn't like the idea that their people could have been at ends with one another. Especially in such a brutal conflict. Then came the hug.

So this was it. She was the giver of hugs. Distributor of snuggles. The most arm wrapping drama of the century. The embracer of embraces. The huggiest huggable knight this side of Avonshire. And Kosara was all in on it. Kathryn tensed at first, uneasy at first but soon relaxing a little. she properly returned the hug soon after rather than just awkwardly wrapping her arms around Kosara. And she had to admit, it was nice to hug again. It still gave her anxiety, but not as much as she thought she would struggle with. It felt real though. The problem with that is she had no idea how to end a real hug. With V it was easier because it seemed the smaller woman was offering the hug for Kat's benefit to help make up for the fear she caused when... well killing her. And now? This felt like something for both of them in a way. How did people end real hugs?! she briefly remembered years ago asking this woman Ser Lucas had brought back with him how to ask people out, and in the end how to kiss them. Around the time she was 18 she had developed a crush on a knight from one of the local houses. Hugs however were not one of the things she prepared for. They seemed easy?! To be fair she thought asking the knight would have fared better too. In the moment she panicked and said something to the tune of "Can I have your babies!" She ended up blurting out before even introducing herself. She and Ser Lucas left town rather quickly after that. Catalina wishing Kathryn the best of luck on her future flirting attempts. Nothing quite as embarrassing happening this time though as Kosara let go. So... it was that easy. "I'll have a good walk yeah. "

Kathryn gave a light chuckle when Blackberry asked her about the barrels outside. Setting down her empty mug of ale she began to step towards the door. "They were apart of my workout routine. It's really hard to find proper and sufficient weights to work out with once you get beyond the strength of your average peers. So you gotta improvise sometimes." She pointed out towards the barrels with her thumbs. "A good march on the road there with both barrels in full kit? Now that's a workout." She said proudly. She didn't have confidence in herself in a lot of respects. But she was rather proud with how strong she was. Moving those barrels was no joke. Moving two at once? That was a challenge and a half even for her. "I wish I had timed it or measured the distance better. But today was more of a proof of concept to see how far I could push myself and still keep going afterwards. I'm thinking I did pretty good this morning." She straitened up with her pride and accomplishment. Doing so with enough force to cause an audible thud as she hit her head with the angled beam assisting the ceiling, immediately bending back down holding her head like she wanted to curse the maker of the beam themselves. Quickly though she took a breath, calmed down, and kept her head low. As if the gods themselves were humbling her for being too prideful. Or it could just be back luck being just a couple inches under seven foot and standing in one of the few areas of the room where that would be a problem. Doors she could handle (Mostly), but it always seemed to be ceiling beams that caught her off guard. "I'm going to go put these back now... I'll see you at breakfast." She said in a much more humbled tone.

Kathryn quickly put the barrels away in the storage building on the couch house lot, only to remember there was in fact a tasty treat waiting for her in the form of Morty bits. Grabbing a pouch from the same storage building she ran back in shoving her hand into the bag of Morty a few times to create her own bag of Morty. “Sorry, now I’ll see you both at breakfast…” she said before scampering off. And then began her cool down run for the morning. Nothing like a good easy cardio to wrap up an intense workout. The pass she found wasn't particularly easy to travel, but far from a challenge. She couldn't safely go a full sprint but she could keep a good pace as she got to enjoy nature for a bit, enjoy the peace of things, and overall just relax. The watch tower was something to be amazed by. A tall beauty that could only be described as... wonderful. Climbing to the top as fast as she could, she got a view that she couldn't even imagine describing to the others. A view that had to be seen not heard or read about. Kathryn was honestly surprised just how much land seemed to be under the influence and ownership of the L'Rose family. "Oh my gods..." This was the sort of place to live. A high up stone tower with a view unmatched by anything. Not that she could ever afford such a tower. But she wanted to come out here as often as possible while she was here.

Taking in the view she wished she herself could fly, and see the world as birds do. She wondered if this is what V experienced with her new creature? She would have to ask the small woman. And if so… could she share that experience with Kathryn? She would have to ask. In the meantime, this was a view she would never get tired of. She made a mental note to return here as often as possible! But now she was risking being late for breakfast. Taking her pack she climbed back down the tower, a cheerful smile across her face as she explored the greenery around the vineyard and jogged back towards the main house via a path she had spotted while on top of the tower. Kathryn making good speed, she soon caught up with Victoria, Lizbeth, and Cecily. "Hey everyone!" she called out as she approached. "Sorry for being tardy. I need to get back into shape if I want any hope of... well a lot of things." She gave an awkward chuckle, an arm wrapped around the back of her head as she struggled to think of the words. "So, what did I miss?" She ten turned out to see the view of the lands from the terrace. "Wow... the view is amazing from here too." Kathryn mused looking off into the distance.

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: Coach House Main rooms Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn was glad to hear that a battle didn't seem to break out between V and Kosara. Though it would have been an amusing sight to watch, she didn't want to watch two of her companions unleash hell and fury on one another. Especially over herself. Kathryn couldn't be sure if Kosara was joking or just speaking the potential worst case scenario rather casually. But as it didn't really come to blows, she wasn't going to worry herself too badly on that. But it also appeared that Victoria was the one who had slapped her while she was out. "Tactile test huh?" Kathryn asked in a half amused manner. "Fair enough..." Kathryn spoke with some hesitation. Then, a grin that could be taken as a joke to some, or something a little more against the tone of shenanigans broke out on Kathryn's face. "Speaking of tests. You're probably the closest here to Lizbeth's size, you should join us for sword practice so she can see how to go toe to toe with someone bigger than her. I can teach her a lot, but how she will learn to fight, will be far different than how I tend to fight." Kathryn took a sip of her ale and pondered her words. She wanted to make room to joke and tease Victoria without out right revenge striking the woman. Kathryn held no ill intent towards the small woman, and simply wanted to joke about with her. "Nothing intense obviously. But she should see how a fight of two people in different size groups fight. It'll be good for her to know!" Kathryn said giddy. And yes, she just wanted a good sparing match. But BB would probably be far better at doing such a thing than Victoria was. And there was some legitimate points there too. Kathryn was bigger than most of her opponents, and that was one of her greatest strengths. But people may try to exploit it. As for how V fit into things, if V ever found herself in hand to hand combat, she would likely fight people a lot bigger than her. Which for now, was Lizbeth. Though Lizbeth may grow up some more...

Kosara offering to help setup breakfast, even making some flat breads, Kathryn couldn't help but make a little joke of the matter. "Gasp! Kosara! You, working with bread!" Kathryn jested towards her friend with a soft chuckle and a warm smile. "Jokes aside, it is kind of funny then how we haven't met before. Ser Lucas and I stopped in nearly every Caravan stop and tavern between here and Arcanaple. Wouldn't that have been a fun coincidence?" Kathryn amused to Kosara. The world was big, and as a whole Kathryn could see how despite the number of places Kathryn and Ser Lucas had to call home for a time how she could have missed Kosara's home. Especially if it was in any other direction. Apart of her did wonder if the desert Kosara was from was the same one her uncle used to talk about? She couldn't be sure, but apart of her didn't really want to know. If it was, her uncle didn't have a lot of nice things to say about the desert. He said the frontier's lands on the edges of the deserts were better, but the stories he told Kathryn growing up past the frontiers, they still scared Kathryn a bit. Even if Kosara and her people weren't the people that her uncle were pitted against, she heard the fighting got pretty brutal for everyone involved. Taking another sip of ale to let remove herself from that train of thought, she moved on to other matters.

Kathryn listened as Cecily spoke on about her struggles at the moment. So far, it seemed to be building up to a crazy winter for her. Her husbands father passing, that being Lizbeth's grandfather. Staff not showing up due to schedule conflicts or errors, and just a hectic time. She wished she knew how to help the poor woman, but her experience managing an estate was cut short years ago. Sure, maybe she could do better than your average commoner, but not by as much as you would expect a noble woman to do. To make matters worse, she found herself being a little short on the emotional side of things to provide much support there too. "Well, since we're here, if you do need assistance do let us know. We don't want to be leeches to your hospitality while you struggle this winter. If we can help all you have to do is ask!" Kathryn offered with the brightest cheer in her tone!

Kathryn looked down at the sweet innocent face Kosara put on when asking for a hug, much like the one she felt obligated to give Victoria. How was Kathryn supposed to refuse to hug Kosara after she willingly gave a hug to the small half elf woman who just killed and unkilled her? Kosara other than some issues with not understanding what a sandwich was, and some cultural issues that they were going to work on, had been nothing but kind to her! The hug for Victoria has been hard though. Hugs gave Kathryn anxiety. She had to worry what would happen if the person she trusted to get that close secrete vendetta against her? What if Kosara did have one and had been hiding it so well the last week? No no no no that was crazy paranoia talking. She was over worrying herself! "Okay." She said a little meekly, but a smile on her face none the less. Kathryn then bent over a bit as if she was giving a bow to her tiefling friend. When in arms reach she hugged Kosara tightly, and then quickly let go taking her free hand and grabbing her mug of ale, downing it until it was empty to numb the fear. Her smile seemed much less forced now.

The mood of the half giant was warmed up watching Blackberry claim to Master Urmdrus that the barrels he brought seemed to be way too much for the party to produce. Thankfully, Master Urmdrus laughed first. Making it so Kathryn wouldn't seem like a child for laughing first and likely loudest of the group. As he left though Kathryn's professional posture began to fade. "hehehe" Kathryn let out in a giggle trying to get a word out before she struggled to speak. Her laughing seeming to take precedent over the words trying to come out of her mouth. "Hehe, those are..." She coughed trying to get a more words out through her chuckles. "Sorry I uh, left those there. I'll deal with them here." She let out once the laughing settled. She had no idea why Blackberry pointing out the barrels was so funny to her, yet here she was laughing her ass off at them! Maybe it was the implication that they were massive piss buckets, or maybe it was like a nervous twitch as Kathryn struggled with embarrassment of not dealing with those yet.

"I'm going to clean up my own work for a bit, and go for a short walk before breakfast."Kathryn spoke to Cecily mostly, but also to Kosara who was looking into plans for the morning. "Flat breads sound nice, I don't know a ton of what goes into them but if you can get that going while I put the barrels away you're also welcome to join me for my walk before I go up to the house?" Kathryn offered to the small tiefling woman. "The offer is also out there for any of you as well." Kathryn spoke up to Victoria, Blackberry, Cecily, and Lizbeth. But she didn't want them to feel obligated too. Kathryn's casual morning walk was supposed to be a cool down workout before her day kicked off after such an extreme workout this morning. She did wonder where would be the best places to go for a walk while out here. But maybe that would be a good use of this walk, to learn more of the layout of the vineyard before breakfast!

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Fighter (Rune Knight), Level 05 HP: 49 / 49 Armor Class: 19 Conditions: Alive Part III Location: Coach House Main rooms Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn turned to face V after the resurrection had taken a hold. "Thank you?" She said a little shakily as V told her she made a great test subject. Kathryn say V's arms out to embrace in a hug, and Kathryn found herself a little frozen. Not overall negatively effected emotionally against Victoria. But between the fear she just went through, and the fact that Kathryn struggled with physical contact, Kathryn gave a sort of dorky smile in response. She found herself a little unsure of what to do. It seemed rude to not embrace now that she was holding out her arms like that? Plus, if V was going to anything, surely she would do it when Kathryn was out cold. Everyone at this point knew Kathryn was strong enough to lift considerable weight and mass. She had lifted and did a short targeted toss of one of the beasts in the town square. She could move barrels of wine as if they were her regular kit. And she hit hard enough with blunt weapons to separate appendages from their previous owners in a single blow or two. Surely V knew this, and wouldn't try anything while Kathryn was awake and able to swing back right?

Walking up awkwardly to the small woman, Kathryn wasn't really sure the best way to hug someone so short their heads wouldn't even touch in an embrace. She supposed she was wearing armor so awkward smotherings shouldn't b a problem. So very carefully she wrapped her arms around V and returned the hug, being extra careful to not crush her half elf friend. Then quickly letting go to continue with no more touching. Things finally began to calm down. Mostly. The cleaners were still trying to not freak out, and Kathryn was still drinking to suppress her fears and concerns. But they were indeed calmer! Kathryn's mood did lighten when Blackberry joked on how long she had been asleep. "Centuries you say? Hell, I've made my steward proud. I have been so good at me studies I became a wizard and have been granted eternal life." She said jokingly to the ever so clever dragonborn. "I do wonder what magics I have learnt in the years I have been out. I bet I can cool all the beers now!" She attempted to pull off in her best non noble sounding voice. Overall, 6/10 performance. "Between what you and V said, I am destined to be a master class of magic huh?" She said to wrap up her joke, a toothy smile crossing her face as she did so. Kathryn let out a short, but loud and blunt laugh as Kosara said she didn't have to blast V with magic death balls. Quickly covering up her mouth to hide the laughter. "...sorry..." She mumbled trying to not seem rude.

"I think your wife ran off down the road a ways. I uh... don't know how far she went... or what direction she went. Sorry my guy." Kathryn said sheepishly wanting to help, but at this moment just needed a moment to recover the ability to stand and not freak out. Yes, the worst was over. But Kathryn was still shaken, and to say she was jumpy was an understatement. Even by her standards. Should something try and surprise her now, fight reflexes could take over and she could find herself fighting for her life like a wild animal. No no... that wouldn't do. Topping off her ale she figured this was the best approach. The ale wasn't strong enough to get her plastered quickly, but just strong enough to maybe buzz her. Especially without breakfast. Which did remind her... she was starving. Between her fucked up appetite recently, her heavy work out this morning, and just how late the day had begun, she was starving. Felt like she could single handedly hunt down a while animal with her bare hands, and then eat it on the spot. Thankfully, breakfast was soon, and no one would have to witness Kathryn making a foolery of herself so much.

As Cecily stepped in, Kathryn found the land owning woman very much fit the noble atheistic far better than Kathryn did. Much like Victoria did. Kathryn did wish she could also fit into that niche better being the only noble woman here. But her practice in it stopped young, she rarely spent time out of her armor, and was very self conscious on her looks. Not that she was unattractive. But when compared to nobility like members who knew how to make the most of themselves, Kathryn gave off the impressions of a laid back guy barely caring guy than a proper noble woman. "You're looking rather lovely this morning Cecily. I hope we didn't get too rambunctious while Lizbeth was here. She's been a great host, while we may have gotten a little too comfortable at times." Kathryn said a little awkwardly as last night and this morning hadn't panned out the way that things probably should have. "With that, I do hope that we haven't caused too many problems." Kathryn emphasized towards the open door where the poor screaming cleaning lady had exited not too long ago.

"Wait a moment, who slapped me?" Kathryn said cautiously. That is firstly a bold move considering if Kathryn wasn't dead, and had woken up, most of the people in the room were small enough for her to toss around like a children's game of ball or toss. The exception being Blackberry probably. But then more of what Lizbeth said got Kathryn's attention. "Are there other strange things going on besides the giant bugs and rat man monsters?" Kathryn asked cautiously. Things seemed a little off since they got here, but Kathryn chalked a lot of it up to her own caution. Hell, even Cecily mentioning overnight staff changes got Kathryn a little concerned. Had something happened? Where more people disappearing?! More people turning into monsters?! "Is everything alright there? Did something happen to the staff? Is anyone hurt?" Kathryn asked concerned. Maybe apart of her wanted to make up for her lack of mental skills she usually held within the group. She was great muscle, and likely if she put some effort into it a half decent pretty face. But makeup would smear the inside of her helmet, and not look good when it came off. Maybe apart of her was still in that investigative mindset. Unable to properly relax, and not be ready for something to go wrong.

Oh shite.... the piss buckets... "I'm uh... I'm sorry... I forgot... and uh... went somewhere else..." Kathryn said shamefully. Hell, she was likely going to benefit most from this exchange, but had contributed the least amount of... well... piss. "I can try again later if that still helps?" She said unsure what else to say, before seeing Cecily's confused face. "We need it for working with the hides we harvested yesterday." Kathryn said simply. She didn't get into the details much though as she didn't know them that well either.