Shoe Thief

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: The Public House Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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With the mixed reactions to the writing on the table Kathryn found herself at a loss. Sure, she recognized the word, knew it was elvish. But shy of those she was totally lost. Kathryn also found her attention cut short with the smell of delicious food. She knew she should focus on the concerns that are present, but she felt like she was starving. Victoria thankfully helped bring things back on track with the explanation of Geas. A magical contract. It did sound vaguely familiar, but she couldn't pull a lot. Stories of how horrible some of the contracts got. But she had no idea how they worked, or what the consequences were of breaking them. But she knew it was bad news. From what Victoria explained, that seemed pretty accurate. So was Robert under one of these? And who held him bound to this contract? She wondered what it was but found herself struggling to ask. Since it was written in elvish maybe that meant that they were elvish? Or maybe it was written like that since whoever bound him didn't know elvish? "Can you tell us who or... not." She worried that it may be another piece tied into this rather confusing knot of a puzzle, and if it was how it related. But if Robert could tell and it was related, they would have another path to follow. If not, they would just have to see how they could offer help to the man.

On a calmer note, Kosara offered to have her grandfather help Victoria with her quest. So another excuse to visit Kosara's home and see what that was like. Granted Kathryn knew little of the desert lands. Of any kind. Her uncle told her some stories from the kingdom's last major declaration of war, but those details were older then she was. And she had no idea how accurate any of them were. But at least Kosara also seemed up for helping Blackberry. Overall it seemed the party were already here to help one another! If that wasn't good progress for them she wasn't sure what was. Kosara listed off a couple of her potential abilities that may be able to help Robert, and she wondered what kinds of tricks she had up her sleeves. Or lack there of as it seemed the only thing with sleeves the tiefling owned was her new coat she got from Victoria. She was definitely impressed with how Kosara was trying to handle the situation, offering solutions that may be flexible enough to work around Robert's situation. "If it's not something you want to chance we get, but we want to help if at all possible." He hadn't sold them out to the constable this morning, she wasn't sure if it was a more true neutral stance or if he was being helpful. But knowing what she knows now maybe it was an attempt to help. She wanted to say thanks for that, but she she also didn't want to chance giving away the location of their hideout. She wondered if the Constable was behind this too though, or if it was one of the other suspects she had in mind. She had a growing paranoia about this town, and it wasn't going to get better until she was able to get some answers that didn't just open up more questions.

Kathryn wondered if it would be rude if she went to eat some of the food now? The free food was the best news she had gotten all day with how tense things were getting. Her skills were not well suited to this, so she served as little more than a body guard for the group as they did their things. One who apparently robbed silver smiths, scared the locals, and visited places like the Honey Barn while on duty. All while pissing off the local law and drinking enough alcohol to make most people black out. But she had the ring, she discovered the constable has ill intentions towards the party. She was doing her best to carry her own weight, but she was out of her element. She'll need to work on that. She decided that since the food was already here, enjoying some of it would be just fine. Someone had to help out with the two bowls of soup and the long list of fruits and breads she ordered.

Kathryn walked back to her seat and grabbed the bowl without sitting and drank from it as if she was finishing off the little bit on the bottom too shallow to get with a spoon, downing the bowl in what felt like record time before moving onto one of the loaves of bread biting off the end before grabbing any remaining soup with the now exposed inner bread. Kathryn didn't care what Kosara said, the bread is one of the most important parts to any meals. "So, with the context we have now, I think it's fine if we take the job. Assuming it's not something that's gonna be a problem for any of the parties involved?" She asked Robert hoping that he could give an answer to that. Kathryn found herself snacking on this free meal between sentences. "Last I knew, our man was also closed for the time being. But if we can just pick up an order, then I don't see why we can't grab it."

Blackberry had declined Kathryn's offer to have the party help once things were cleared up. Maybe he would change his mind should that time come, maybe not. But as long as he knew it was there that was a start for Kathryn. As usual though, it was a lot of questions for Robert. Marita then opened up, having taken the situation she had revealed the whole truth of their mission, and definitely felt it was the case that the party was way under-qualified for and under equipped for this sort of mission. But that seemed to hold no real deterrent on any of the party, herself included. Kathryn was glad to see the cleric return once she realized how extreme things may be, and how the man who had just given them free food may be in need of their help. But... Lycanthropy? Wererats? Kathryn was totally baffled as she tried to quietly go through her food. Marita seemed to be a far greater expert on things then Kathryn was. But, if what she said was true, the situation could still be salvageable. "You said the silver hurts them, does that mean we need silvered weapons if things get into a confrontation?" Kathryn knew she was physically able to go toe to toe with most creatures her size, and especially smaller. But the heaviest hitting thing she had ever faced was an Orc in a pub. This was a whole new ballpark to her.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: The Public House Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn listened with excitement as her fellow party members listed off their reasons for wanting to go on this adventure. Kosara wanting to go out and see the world, and go on... well adventures! A want to help others, and a chance to see what she could offer the world and vice versa. A sweet and humble enough reasoning! Overall she was glad that her really good tiefling friend was able to go on this adventure. "I'd love a chance to see your journal if you don't mind. Before you send it off! I think it would be really cool what you decided to record and share!" That alone was a rather epic thought. What had Kosara decided to save and share? She wondered what kind of home the tiefling grew up in, and Kathryn wondered if she would ever get a chance to see it? Hopefully so. She wondered what Kosara's sisters were like and if they were anything like Kosara herself.

Responding to Victoria's comment about the Honey Barn Kathryn said "We didn't really get a chance to look around or see what's up. Even before we entered things had escalated. And when we got inside, there were concerns they had gotten more extreme. Maybe we'll get another chance?" It was not the normal place Kathryn would go to hang out at nowadays. But she had to admit, she was a little curious herself. The concern of getting back to the barn though... Maybe there was more they could do to help make sure they were not followed. "Maybe we can still lure them off our trail in case we were followed? Walk randomly on roads, waiting to see if we can spot if we're being followed. All together I'm sure we could spot something. Once we are sure we make our way back to our safe spot." She wondered if they would include Blackberry in that safe spot? Or if like Rickard he may have to stay in the public house. It was interesting to hear about the sisters of Kosara and Victoria as well, hearing some of Victoria's stories added into the pot made things all that more interesting. Kathryn listened as Victoria talked about Virgil. The two sounded close, but Kathryn worried when the idea of using her abilities to solve this problem. Did she mean... bring him back from the dead?

Blackberry was an interesting case of his own. His home was in trouble, and he was running out of options of those who could help. He was unfortunately not familiar with goblin tongue. But he was still willing to help how he could. "Maybe we can return the favor when we are wrapped up here? I don't know if we're the most qualified, but maybe we can help non the less." And if not all of them, maybe just herself? She held no commitments outside of this quest. No lands to call her own, no property outside of the clothes on her back and the supplies in her bag, and no friends or family to return too once the mission was over. On more good news, Everyone seemed to be willing to help with this quest with Roberts. How perfect! Free food, a job t hey could do on the job, a chance to figure out more with the Silver Smith. Overall a good day! Marita began detect magic on the ring, and Kathryn was relieved to hear she didn't curse the whole party with this test she knew so little about. Kathryn then listened to Marita's story. Lost with nowhere else to go, her family home destroyed. A cleric without a church? And a woman without a home. "I'm sorry to hear about your home. I hope we're able to help you on your quest to return to your place of worship." She had no idea if the cleric wanted their help. But she wanted her to know that the offer was there if she ever wanted it.

Kathryn then figured it was her turn. Everyone else had shared their stories. "So uh... Me now. Well, I'm a lady without land, and so myself and my most loyal knight have been traversing the lands attempting to rebuild our own names and keep ourselves fed for some years. We did some jobs to help ourselves, some jobs to help those we met. But after Ser Lucas passed, I was lef tto find my own place in the world. And a few weeks after his passing I got a letter intended for Ser Lucas from our neighborhood Sheriff. I saw it as my chance to figure some things out, do some good while getting my foot in the door to figure out my own life." Kathryn said a bit amused with herself. "Kind of funny, 15 years ago I was being set up for marriage, talks from our parents about which castle and what lands we shall someday hold, and having to decide which family name we shall take. Now? Every day is just day by day. It's kind of exciting in a way, not knowing what the future holds." She spoke with a bit of glee to her face. Though her home being taken from her at such a young age was tragic, she was doing what she could to enjoy her day to day life. And she had been doing okay so far.

Kathryn watched as Lea brought out the food. SO much soup, so much bread. The half giant warrior was starving to the point where she wanted to take the whole thing and dig in as if she was in her own personal eating context with her willpower. THEN DAISY CAME OUT WITH MORE!!! Things then got weird. Marita turned down the job suddenly, and with a hurried tone that implied there would be no talking. When she started to leave Kathryn almost protested. She still hadn't eaten all day and it was getting into the afternoon! And today's lunch was free! But the hurried tone in Marita's voice compelled Kathryn to stop. She was a sensible woman, maybe she spotted something Kathryn missed? She wouldn't question her here. No matter how much she wanted lunch. Maybe Morty wouldn't mind a nibble... Just a small one. Kathryn watched as things broke down, but re-stabilized. Robert took some Chalk, and began writing. Kathryn stood up to take a look at what he wrote, and moved to read it when asked for a translation. Elvish. Kathryn knew Elvish pretty well. Elvin nobles were not uncommon for her growing up.

Kathryn spoke the word outloud. As she learned the bulk of her elvish from when she was in her family home, her homeland accent was more noticible than usual. "Geas." Kathryn spoke in a serious, though confused tone. She knew the word. Or at least did at some point. She had heard it before, and she had heard it used in context... but she couldn't place it. It was on her mind but she couldn't place the context to it. The comment Robert made about being morons wasn't reassuring. She knew this. She was sure. But she couldn't place it now. She just needed something to jog her memory.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: The Public House Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn was slow to accept help from Backberry. She would be vulnerable as he dealt with the stuck buckle, and if his intentions were anything but honest and helpful there would be nothing Kathryn could do to stop it. She winced slightly as he bent the prong back into place, and relaxed as he retracted his hands. "I... Thank you very much." Kathryn said very relieved. She took off her helmet and set the battle worn helmet down on the table and pulled her long braid out of the confines of her armor. "It's been a crazy moment here but uh, I'm Lady Kathryn Pyke. Or Ser Kathryn Pyke depending on which titles you prioritize above others. It's nice to meet you Blackberry. I hope we can help you with your quest here." The dragon born was a strange creature to Kathryn, but he was polite and helpful. "As for the ring..." She hadn't considered if it could have been enchanted. She just assumed it was silver and there was nothing else to it?! "Well uh... You just place it on your tongue... but... I don't actually know if it's enchanted..." Kathryn's inexperience to matters such at these were very evident. She saw information that seemed important, and took it an ran with it. Her lack of knowledge in magic seemed to also not help her.

Kathryn listened closely and Blackberry and Marita explained the situation with the child monster. First, a spy, then a spy turned... Monster. The whole thing was strange. And Kathryn was wondering if this whole thing was a lot stranger and had a lot more too it than was implied. She paused for a moment, Marita seemed to want to say more, but didn't. Kathryn gave the woman a knowing nod. She figured she either had something she didn't want to risk saying in a public space, or she was still building trust with Blackberry. She would have to find a chance to talk with the Cleric in private. She may also be one of the better people to talk about with her own suspicions. To either tell her she was crazy, or that she had a legitimate concern. Or maybe she could get answers right here and now? She turned back to Blackberry when the conversation seemed to wrap up. "I don't suppose by any chance you speak goblin tongue?" If they could wrap that up, then maybe they could get some answers instead of questions. So many questions opening up. Too few answers. And she worried more and more about the connections of those goblins and their mission.

Though a lot had happened, things were calm now. They were relatively alone within the public house, and now that the party was back at full strength-plus, she doubted Constable Cavendish would attempt anything against them. At least not like what was going on at the Honey Barn. Lea soon approached the table. Kathryn hadn't really gotten to meet the woman yet but she seemed really nice from what she could gather. Kathryn found herself intrigued by Lea as she held off a on her "Something". Kathryn's curiosity would always take a priority in her thought process. "Oh that does sound good, if I could get two bowls of that with some bread and..." She paused for a moment, skipping breakfast meant her stomach was on a warpath. "If you still have some fruits I'd like some apples as well, maybe a slice or two of watermelon if you have it. Could I also have some milk? If not some water would be lovely please!" Her purse would lose this battle against her stomach as Kathryn ordered with glee. Maybe she should pick up cooking and see about making her own food to save on purse? Then, the best news she had gotten all day.

Robert had approached the party and had offered the lot of them free meals. Had today gotten much better, Kathryn may have forgotten that she was about lured into a hidden part of town by members of the law participating in suspicious activities. Though he made sure to add a comment about the ale, looking at Kathryn with that line. Had she really drank that much last night? She paused to think about it, and remembered a brief moment where she gripped how loose her chain mail was in an attempt to determine if she had gotten fat. She went red face at the thought and had to resist the urge to hide underneath her helmet. Then, he offered the lot of them a job. Pick up an expensive order from Mr. Mallard and bring it back here. Not timely, but she assumed the job wasn't one to just be forgotten and done whenever the party felt like it. "I don't see why not, seems strait forward enough. And it shouldn't take long at all." She saw the pay, five gold coins. Whatever it was, it was pricey. She wondered though... If the shop was closed then how were orders being made? Did he have contact with the silver smith while he was in hiding? Maybe it was a back order? She was tempted to ask about it, but held her tongue.

But they had a job and at the very least a direction, and an excuse to followup with the silver smith. And maybe also figure out if that ring Kathryn made everyone put in their mouth was cursed. She could also return it as well. But until the rain calmed down, it was better to wait it out. They were not in a rush at the moment, and for now they were safe. Adding to Marita's question to have Blackberry explain his situation a bit, Kathryn figured she would try to learn a bit more about the people she was working with. "Adding to this, I know how some of you came to be here on this mission, but I don't know why if that makes sense. What brought you lot here? Money? The idea of adventure? Something more personal? I think it would be good if we lot got to know each other just a little bit." Kathryn said with an innocent smile on her face, a little excited to know more about the people she had been working with, and if things kicked off to the extreme, people she would have to depend on.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: The public house Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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It was nice to see the others again, even if Rickard wasn't able to catch up. Kathryn hoped the man knew what he was doing, and he was alright. Seeing everyone though had relaxed Kathryn somewhat. Though her facial expressions were not visible, her posture relaxed a little, her shoulders were no longer tense, she leaned forward a bit to listen to what others had to say, and her hands were not in immediate reach of her weapons. Though she was still on guard, she had relaxed enough to have a real conversation with her fellow party members. Seeing Victoria dry herself off with magic reminded Kathryn to take another attempt at her stuck helmet. Taking off her gloves, she made another attempt on the still damp clamp. Still no luck. If all went well, she'd get a new helmet at the end of this. New everything if things went well. Though that was far from her top concern, she would be glad to get her ageing gear replaced. Some bits of it were older than herself, and were battle tested before she got her hands on it.

Kosara explained a little of their situation, but in her adorable fashion, she did leave out the important context. Kathryn took witness to Victoria putting the silver ring on her tongue. She didn't notice anything, and with that, was wondering more and more if maybe the Silver Smith was just a crazy old man who had lost his mind. Having nothing to do with what they were doing. "Food would be wonderful. I haven't eaten since yesterday. Anything warm will make me one happy gal." Though it seemed that Victoria and Marita had their own moment or two of interest. It seemed they were making progress on their job, she worried it was the kind of progress though that would turn them into victims of current events rather than those who would be the heroes of this story. She left that concern to herself. They had no way of knowing where this story would go until they did something about it. And doing nothing was not an option. Victoria had her own questions on the events Kosara and herself have been on. "It's... complicated. So if you have questions as I explain, do ask. And I will do the best I can to answer." Kathryn took a deep breath as she decided which bits of information were the most important.

"Kosara and I made our way to see the L'Roses, they are doing okay, though shaken up. They seem to be safe now, and I have asked them to stay on guard." And Cecily was armed now. For whatever good that did. Kathryn hoped the poor woman wouldn't need the hand axe, but it was better than leaving her unarmed. "Kosara and I then went to check out the Silver Smith, and with some persistence from Kosara, we were let in by a Mr. Milard. Our resident silver smith who held us as crossbow point until we did his little test." Kathryn emphasized the ring now sitting on the table once Victoria was done with it. "Once we passed, he calmed down drastically, until mention of imprisonment came up. Then he lost it, and we found ourselves outside again. At this point, I can't tell if he was onto something, or maybe he had lost it. Or... Both." Kathryn had heard of some dungeons being so brutal, that the people who returned from them never were the same again. "With our immediate leads dried up, and time on our hands, we decided to explore our options and found ourselves at...." Kathryn realized it sounded almost silly, or that they may have been looking to slack off on the job while the others worked. "Madame Marcie's Honey Barn..." Kathryn said with a bit of a shy tone.

Kathryn sat back, a little more tense again. "That is when things got concerning. More so then they already were. Constable Cavendish was there with some guards. Taking a bag of coin offered to him by the staff. It reminded me of almost like a gangs protection deal, or some kind of bribe. We were not able to get a lot of details but they seemed very off." Kathryn wanted to choose her words carefully here. Maybe she misread the situation, or maybe he was on the lookout for something else. But if he wasn't, then they could all be in danger. "When he was aware of our presence, he appeared to be trying to take us out of the public eye. He seemed to be looking around for... witnesses. I have reason to believe he planned on taking us somewhere to arrest us, or something more..." She paused, she didn't want to jump to assumptions. But he left little to be implied. "Extreme. We exchanged some words, though not entirely friendly, far from hostile. When we tried to walk off, his men tried to stop us. He called them off saying he would go have a chat with you. Once he walked off Kosara and I entered the Honey Barn to figure out our next move. Fearing he may be waiting for us to leave either to catch us off guard, or for us to lead him back either the rest of the party, or our hideout, we began making our way out the back. At which time we heard about... A monster. With you two." Kathryn spoke with a puzzled tone. She briefly wondered if the Orphan Monster was this Dragon man with them now. How things were turning, it would surprise Kathryn, but she had an idea how rumors could spread if left unchecked.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: Streets of Avonshire --> The public house Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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The rain poured down harshly on Kosara and Kathryn. Though Kathryn's helmet helped mitigate some of the downpour, it was far from water tight. The leather that held the chainmail in place was damp as hell, her under garments were beginning to get soaked, and she could feel her braided up hair getting more and more wet underneath her armor. Though the rain was annoying, it was far from her top concern. Her concern in this moment was the Constable. Kathryn had taken a few looks behind herself as she and Kosara walked down the roadway, and she was fairly confident that they were not followed. She didn't want to chance their safe house being compromised off the chance she didn't see anyone following. Or if someone had been waiting around for the party to return. They had too few allies and safe places to risk what they had. The more things progressed, the more she was concerned things would turn into a fight. Occasionally she would reach behind her head to make sure the grip of her family's sword was still there. A rather large and unweidly blade to most hands, struggling from it's years of age, combined with not seeing the maintenance of a true professional in years. It had also seen harsher conditions in recent years than it had since the founding of her house. In her hands though? It was a lethal weapon comparable to the best of arms available to any foot soldier. After confirming yet again it was still present, she looked around again to look for the others, and to make sure they were not followed.

She didn't have to wait long before she could see the others, but what she did notice, is that Rickard wasn't present? And they were being followed by... A dragon? Kathryn's first instinct was to prepare for a fight, having never seen a creature like this. Though seeing the casual nature of Marita and Victoria and this dragon like creature, she eased up a bit. She had heard rumors of humanoid dragon species, but she chalked them up to Kobolds, maybe larger then average Kobolds. It really made her wonder about how diverse her home land was considering the number of species she has seen in the last couple months she has never seen before. Kathryn gave a wave of one of her arms to get the other's attention, hopefully keeping them away from the hayloft for now. She had no idea how harsh the situation may end up being, so everything now had to be approached with caution.

Kathryn gave the dragon man a small wave as he entered, with her helmet on though her dumbfounded face was well hidden. She waited for Marita and Victoria to catch up before speaking up. "Things have changed. We need to talk, but not at home. Or out here. Let's get inside." She made it an effort to not mention the hayloft. Though it was no fortress, it was somewhere they had total control of the environment. Kathryn made her way inside, ducking further than usual to make sure she didn't bump her head on the doorway again. She had done enough of that recently. She took a quick look around to make sure no one was eyeing the party as they entered, as best as she could tell though, they were safe. But she ha trouble telling the difference between people curious about the strangers who had just entered, and those who may be looking for the party specifically. But she was comfortable enough to take off her helmet. As she went to take it off, she had trouble first locating the buckle holding her helmet on, and when she did find it, she found it stuck. After several jerking motions she wondered if the rain and wear and tear had finally had it's way with the old piece of metal. She could live with the buckle on for now, hoping it would be easier to remove once the leather it was attached to dried out some more.

Kathryn grabbed one of the large tables towards the back of the public house and sat down. Once everyone had joined she pulled her glove off, letting water pour out of it as she did so. Then she slid off the silver ring and put it in the center of the table. She had no idea if she would see what the silver smith was looking for, but with how things were going she wanted to figure out what she could. "I have a request for everyone. Kosara and I have already done this test, But we'll do it again if need me. I want everyone here to take this ring, and put it on their tongue, and hold it there for a moment. Once you are done pass it along to whoever is going next." Kathryn tried to give it as a request, but between her cautioned tone and the helmet covering her face, she sounded a bit more serious. "As well, has the constable confronted any of you yet?" she didn't think it was likely that he caught up to the others before they met up, but she wanted to be sure. She wanted to make sure all relevant information was out and on the table. In this case, literally.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: Streets of Avonshire Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn waited until they were out of conversation distance from Madame Marcie and the other workers before replying to her comments. She wanted to keep any party issues as internally as possible. "You never say his name right, and it sounds like you're doing it intentionally. Most people don't enjoy their names being intentionally mispronounced." She wasn't sure which would be harder to work with when it came to Kosara, explaining customs, or explaining why what she was doing wasn't going to help their situation. Or both. Either way it was making problems they had worse. Granted, Kathryn wasn't he;ping things as much as she could either. Her quip to the constable after he tried to diminish the worth of Kathryn's titles likely did not help things.

Kathryn listened as Kosara mentioned about mercenaries. This... was concerning. Maybe mercenaries were used differently from where she used to live? But as she listened to what Kosara had to say, it sounded pretty spot on with a lot of other mercenaries she had seen Ser Lucas work with. Blood lust, money hungry, perverts, many unfriendly folk. But she found people like that in any professional setting where there was a physical power over others. She tried to make the distinction between mercenaries and Adventurers and Kathryn had to think about it. The closest to adventure stories she got were family tails from when her house went to war. Tales from and about her uncle and his exploits, her great grandparents in founding their house, though she heard a couple others the more extravagant ones that Kosara was likely referencing were not stories Kathryn heard until recent years when herself and Ser Lucas arrived in the kingdom for work. "Kosara... We may be adventurers, but we're doing mercenary work. At last our cover is mercenary work. an many adventurers are in this gig for the money as well. Many yes are here to help where they can, but many also want to get paid. Hell, myself and Ser Lucas would also be considered mercenaries for the longest time. We worked guard jobs once I was old enough to fight properly." She wasn't sure she was helping now that she spoke the words. "It sucks you got stuck with assholes like that at you home. If it makes you feel better Ser Lucas and I had to deal with a couple of those kind of people ourselves when they didn't understand to back off at a tavern we like to frequent? I will say, adventurer sounds like an upgrade from mercenary. Assuming we can get this situation under control..." She was enjoying her time with party, though she could see things rapidly getting out of control here.

Making their way through the streets wasn't too bad. Most people had seen to have cleared the roadways going home to likely avoid the rain, or the rumors of monsters. "We all agreed to meet up at mid day. So that's what we'll do." But if the others were dealing with a monster? What would they do then? Just keep waiting while some creature had their way with their team? "We'll give them some time in case they are running late. But we have to assume at least for a little bit they're able to keep to the plan, and they will follow it." She paused as the front of the public house came into sight. If Cavendish was following or tracking them, then at least the Constable wouldn't be able to figure out where they were all sleeping at night. Maybe he was just annoyed, but he also seemed ready to escalate things. Something Kathryn would like to avoid. "If they don't arrive soon, we'll look for them. Alright? But we have to assume things are still going to plan at least for a little bit." Kosara went off a little more about not being mercenaries, but Kathryn already made whatever points she could about it. She hoped the others were okay, she hoped that the Constable wasn't already after them, or herself and Kosara. She hoped that whatever was going on was well within their scope of abilities.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: Madam Marci's Honey Barn --> Streets of Avonshire Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kosara seemed rather excited for working at the Honey Barn. Kathryn supposed she got why, but it wasn't the kind of work Kathryn was as open too. It left her feeling too exposed. She felt naked without her armor on, and doing it for show was a great way to make that feeling much worse. Kathryn would stick to manual labor tasks to help earn extra coin when needed. "She's right Kosara, we have enough problems without aggravating the constable. Take it easy, and if we get things smoothed over, try and apologize." She paused a moment herself before continuing. "I also need to work on that a bit too. I don't want to have to deal with the law on top of our already growing list of problems." Kathryn listened to as Madame Marcie explained their business deal with the constable. It didn't sound good, or legit. It sounded like something you'd offer a street gang so they wouldn't burn down your place of business. "If... that's a problem you regularly deal with, let us know. We'd love to help." She still held in mind she needed to make amends where she could with the constable. But this was getting darker and darker by the moment. First the back alley talks, and now a Protection Gig. The whole thing gave Kathryn the shakes. She tried to job her memory of the places that Madame Marcie mentioned. And though they were familiar, and she'd likely recognize them with the right reminder, she had nothing.

No secrete door to be offered, but Kathryn figured as much. But a back door through the wash room could do. There were many streets and breaking line of sight for long enough could work. "Thank you for your help. We really appreciate your assistance, and we only hope we can do the same for you someday." Kathryn turned to Kosara. "Important things have come up, we can come back when our friends are not about to be caught unawares." Kathryn said in a serious tone as she stormed her way full of concern towards the baths. Madame Marcie asked about Kosara's comment about the Goblins and the Constable. Sometimes Kathryn wished her tiefling friend had a bit more a filter. "Their not related no. Two separate issues we're dealing with at the same time is all." She hoped they weren't related. It would add yet another layer of complications to the list of growing concerns and theories Kathryn was working with. "We're doing mercenary work Kosara. That's why people keep saying we're mercenaries. The work we're doing is work mercenaries tend to do."

Then a woman barged in to get Madame Marcie's attention. She was talking about the rest of their team, one of the missing people, and... A monster? Kathryn saw the look the woman made looking at herself and Kosara and she went wide eyed. Kathryn shoved on her helm and tightened the belt. "Sorry we can't stay Madame Marcie, we look forward to catching up properly and look forward to helping out where we can but we got to go now sorry by!" Kathryn said in a single breath as she forced her way out of the door with a thud that sounded like she would have removed the door with her should had it not given way. "Come on Kosara! We gotta go. The other's need us!" She hoped she wouldn't cross the constable on her way to them. Mid day. They were so close to mid day. She hoped she could find the others before things got out of hand. On her way over and with Constable Cavendish on her mind, she decided she didn't want to risk their hideout. But she had to meet up with them somehow. "Kosara, we can't go to the hideout. We can't risk being followed. We'll go and wait outside the public house and try to catch the others before on their way through." Kathryn said at a running pace struggling to get the buckle on her helmet to stay closed. Another piece of her equipment that wasn't handling the wear and tear of time very well. It soon closed and locked into place. She hoped things wouldn't break into a fight, but she didn't want to get caught with her head exposed if one were to break out.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: Madam Marci's Honey Barn Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kathryn's hand edged closer to the hilt of her sword when one of the guards cut her off. A confrontation was looking more and more likely by the moment. She wondered if Kosara and herself could win this fight? Though winning would create problems, those problems seemed much more manageable then what would happen if they'd lost. Something shady was going on, and once there was no one to witness whatever happened to them, she worried things would get worse. For a moment she wondered if herself and Kosara would be the newest people on that list of missing people. Then Cavendish ordered the guards to stand down. Kathryn sighed in relief, her posture visibly relaxing. The words that followed next caused her to tense. They'd be going after the rest of the party. She felt that maybe Victoria and Marita were better prepared to talk themselves out of a situation, and she knew they could hold her own in combat rather well. But like Their own situation, they were at half strength. If conflict did break out, there was no good ending. The constable seemed to be looking for an excuse to take action. Or to get away with it. "See you around Constable. We'll let them know you're coming." That was a bluff, but if she could cause some hesitation on his part, buy some time for Victoria and Marita, maybe persuade him that now wasn't the time to go after them? It was something. There was no threat to the comment, just informative. But Kathryn had no arcane abilities. The closest to magic she possessed was her ability to handle a sword. She doubted she could use that to warn the rest of the party.

Inside was a much more calming sight. The place was nicer then a lot of the places that Ser Lucas left Kathryn in growing up. Much more colorful, and seemed like it had a lot larger of a budget to work with. Though comparing places to her home wasn't an easy thing to do. Her home nation wasn't known for being the richest. Though it was a comfortable life, even luxury life styles were not as extravagant compared to many larger nations. Even Avonshire gave the appearance of higher trade. Even if not as much money was in that trade, the presence of trade even in material showed. Kathryn found herself looking in awe inside the Honey Barn. When Madame Marcie arrived and began speaking, Kathryn's attention snapped to her. She seemed worried, and a bit confused. "Sorry uh... We were asking around and a lot of places like this where I am from are open a lot sooner. We were also hoping to make some progress on our own work. See who knew what about those who have gone missing, those who have returned. We think it's relevant to out job with these goblin attacks. But..." She looked at the door, thinking about Constable Cavendish. The fact that his own comment made about talking to the rest of the party may have also been a ruse to either get them worries or discourage them from continuing. As well, him having a habit of waiting around? What if he was still preparing for a conflict, and was either waiting for Kathryn and Kosara to leave and lead him and his guard to the rest of the party, or would just outright attack once they were somewhere no one would spot them? "What was... What was Cavendish doing here? It didn't seem like usual business?" And they're closed. She wondered how much more was going on outside of the work that they were hired to do. Or if it was all related somehow. So many strange things were happening, and she wasn't sure what to make of any of it.

The comment about it being near lunch got Kathryn's attention, the morning had gone by fast, and she wasn't ready for it. She slid the gauntlet back on her hand covering the silver ring. If the Constable was waiting outside Kathryn didn't want to find herself surprised by his presence again. The advantage they did have? He had only two guards with him at the moment. They couldn't cover that many routes effectively. If they were careful, they could avoid him all together. "Kosara, we may need to leave. I think the situation has changed." The best way to get out? Kathryn wasn't sure. The front was where they saw Cavendish last, but if he suspected that herself and Kosara would try to sneak away would he be watching out back in anticipation? "Thank you Madame Marcie for the offers. I'm sure the wine would have been great, but I don't think we have time to sit and chat. I'm so sorry for how rude that must seem." As she debated which way to leave Kathryn paused before turning to Madame Marcie again. "I don't suppose by some chance to have a secrete exit to his fine establishment?" Kathryn said as a joke. But deep down she hoped it was true. They would also need to wrap up the quest fast, tensions were growing between the party and the towns people, and between the party and the law.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: Madam Marci's Honey Barn Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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The constable's change of face concerned Kathryn. Things were already going down hill, but she figured they were still passable. She leaned into her ignorant tones as much as she could, see if she could use it to any amount of her advantage. Kathryn opened her mouth to protest the events of the public house! Maybe even plead ignorance. Kosara confessed to it all before she could speak up. Not only confessed, but explained she felt justified in doing so and a lot more. Sure, maybe the bastard deserved it. But this was not the time to talk about that. Kathryn sighed, they would be dealing with the consequences of all of this for the rest of their stay. But even after all of this, Kathryn was still optimistic that she could salvage this. Until Cavendish mocked her heritage.

Kathryn's smile instantly became strained. A lot more forced. It was hard to tell if Kathryn was feeling enraged or saddened as this man so casually, so passively dismissed what little she still had of her home. She held her smile though after taking a moment. What did she care what this bastard thought of where she came from? He has his own little world where he can keep what power he thinks he has. He likely has never been, and never will be to her home. He doesn't understand the value in those memories, those forested mountains covering the horizons, and the people who helped preserve what little she did have to her name. Kathryn gave a chuckle at the constable. "Maybe you should. Breaking up bar kerfuffles the next day is a very important duty for the law." Kathryn spoke in a comparable tone. "Gotta show those hangovers who's in charge around here." Kathryn listened to Cavendish as he spoke about the park. As he looked around the streets for what Kathryn assumed were witnesses.

This worried Kathryn. The man was looking for trouble. He wanted justification to take action, and if action broke out it would end in one of three ways she saw. She and Kosara surrendered, being imprisoned by a man who seemed extremely self serving, and what Kathryn assumed likely corrupt. They break into a fight, and they lose. Kathryn understood that losing meant at best, they would be imprisoned by the same man, with likely a bruised ego. And at worst, death. Then the last outcome. Kathryn and Kosara win. They win at beating the law into submission while in the middle of town. There was no way that would pan over well. Even if they did so without killing any of the trio they would be in a situation impossible to back out of. This would be a loss no matter what happened.

To Kathryn's honest surprise, Kosara offered an out. "Like Kosara said, we're still a bit busy. Though the work is easy, we are getting paid to do some... Followup work." Kathryn tried her best to sound like all the other mercenaries she talked to trying to get into a brothel while working. Work they called it. Yeah, sure David. "If ya got somethin' to say, say it here and please be fast with it. I'd rather not get rained on. Otherwise, we'll be seeing you around law man." Kosara wrapping things off with Cloverwish wouldn't help things, but maybe they could still avoid a fight. Kathryn began working her way inside. She hoped the man wouldn't be foolish enough to fight on the streets here. And she hoped Marita and Victoria were doing better. It wouldn't be worse than trying to avoid getting into a fight with the local constable.

Avonshire - D&D Based Adventure

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Kathryn Pyke Human, Battle Master, Level 03 HP: 31 / 31 Armor Class: 19 Conditions:N/A N/A Location: Madam Marci's Honey Barn Action: N/A Bonus Action: N/A Reaction: N/A

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Kosara's positivity really helped to bolster the mood. Kathryn was trying to find her place in the mission and found herself as a bit of an oaf. Though she could hold her own in combat, she had few skills outside of that with a blade. She could sweet talk from time to time sure, and it's not like she was poor at other skills, though she wasn't exactly good at them either. Though she was getting a better understanding how to use what skills she did have, she would have to work on things as time went on. Though these thoughts were easily pushed aside working with Kosara. "Aye, it'll be a great adventure." Kosara made some comments about maintaining beauty out this far north. "Personal beauty isn't something I've worried about too much. Growing up it just... wasn't a real concern for me. It took time, a lot of time. And Ser Lucas and I rarely could sit still for too long." She and Ser Lucas had many enemies, most were connected to the family that had attacked her home when she was little. Some were made taking jobs that others would rather leave not finished. And many were from people who had attempted to cause harm to those who couldn't protect themselves, and Ser Lucas and Kathryn found themselves getting involved. Though this far north? It wouldn't be worth anyone's efforts to keep coming after her. "Not that it's something I don't care for just... It's something I haven't taken the time to care for." She didn't put in no effort, but she had to keep her hair tied up so it wouldn't be exposed and a weakness on her armor. And she only recently had money to replace some of her damaged gear. Outside of basic washings and what limited options she had with her hair, she wasn't able to pull off a lot.

The walk through the calmer part of town was nice. No stares of people judging her, no crowds of people gasping and pointing at her, no one accusing her. It was nice, the view of the market, the quite homes, the calm local streets. It reminded her of what she thought city life would be like when she first went on the road with Ser Lucas. She was wrong, though Avonshire was likely pretty close outside of the festival season. The Honey barn was easy to spot wedged in between the local homes and shops not common in the main market places. Her heart sank when she saw the towngaurds. Maybe the bad feeling was unjustified, but with how things started this morning Kathryn was a little concerned. To Kathryn's surprise, Kosara held some restraint on the matter, but she found herself unsure either. She vaguely remembered the ring she wore on her hand. The silver tasting ring that was the deciding factor for the Silver Smith's reactions. "Let's... be casual. Walk up, say hi. Maybe ask what's up but let's not confront them here. We'll hear what's going on and if they refuse to talk we'll ask the staff inside once the guards leave." She didn't want a conflict with the town guard. She also had no understanding of what may be going on. For all she knew? This was some regular tax service for businesses. Collected by the local law. The head of the local law. With a lot of suspicious under tones. So Kathryn had her doubts. But she didn't want to start any trouble. "Casual. We want to collect information. Not to get into fights. Nor create more obstacles." She wasn't sure if she was telling herself this or Kosara, but she was anxious and had to fight down that fear before continuing.

Kathryn walked up to the front of the Honey Barn as casually as she could. She realized at this moment though, outside of the job she was hired to do she had no idea of an excuse to make up should she be asked about it. She hoped she was asked, and if she was she could make something up. Kathryn took note of the other guards flinching at the sight of Constable Cavendish grabbing his hammer. She didn't like that one bit. It only reassured her that getting into trouble here was a bad idea. "Good mornin' Lad's and Lassies." She spoke without hiding any trace of her accent. She hoped it would distract from any concerns she had in this moment. "You nice folk getting some companionship? Or jus' some drinks?" Kathryn remembered briefly that she never formally introduced herself to the man, and outside a single sentence each, she hadn't talked to the man much. "Aye, you're the Constable right?" Kathryn internally wanted to leave her steel laced glove on, but she wanted answers. Sliding off the gauntlet with the silver ring under it she reached out her bare hand and offered to shake it. "I don't think we've properly met, Name's Lady Kathryn Pyke of Arcanaple." Kathryn spoke with a big toothy grin that combined with her hair tied back she may have looked like a bit of crazy person, or a really tall peasant who somehow got her hands on armor. "I'd like to thank ya for your services to this lovely community sire. It's nice to get an easy job for once." Kathryn spoke as well with heavy over confidence. Hoping to get the Constable's guard down and let him ease up a little. Maybe let her gain something from him. Let him slip up.