Event RP, DMed by Rook. Players: Rigby, AJ, Degu
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Rook — 03/17/2021
Planning up my event here, as mentioned before.
The group will be led by Harpur, likely, or one of the NPC hunters who knows the spot the missing group had been going to. During the RP, people can roll (d20) to see if their characters find anything during their trek and when they get to the area mentioned.
Rook — 03/17/2021
At the rendezvous spot, the pair of hunters waited alongside Anna, all equipped with camping gear and a couple of sturdy-looking horses. Weapons, too, because they were like going to hunt for their dinner rather than bring along supplies for that. Water, however, was the other necessity brought as well. Once the others arrived, the younger hunter; Raylyn faced them and nodded a greeting.
Degu — 03/17/2021
Harpur arrived on Valentinus, the horse loaded up heavily with enough gear for at least a couple of nights in the woods. They were going into dangerous territory and so he regarded them seriously, nodding "Good morning." and he smiled more tenderly to poor Anna. "Are you all ready? are we waiting on anyone?"
Rigby — 03/17/2021
Perhaps unfortunately for Harpur, this one attracted a mercenary. And doubly unfortunate for Harpur, he would have recognized this one: an armed Aldo, eyes unlit (relatively), leading something that appeared as a horse saddled with the necessities on first glance...if one ignored the oddly-jointed legs and clawed paws. But other than that, the most unusual thing about the man today was how usual he was. Even the smile and nod for Harpur was one someone would give a stranger.
AJ — 03/19/2021
Harpur may have been hoping to avoid Bazil showing up on this trip, but he'd failed to consider the alternative: a tiny, emotionally detached Indian! And on whose shoulders inevitably rested the weight of the future of his new friendship with a certain knuckle-headed definitely-human. Better impress them! The doctor rocked up not on anything horrifyingly uncanny-valley Eldritch, but on a simple cream and black mare. A new sight. They checked their bags, but didn't do much in the way of offering greetings.
Rook — 03/19/2021
"We are, yes. Have you-." Before Rayl could finish, the other two showed up and he nodded to them. More numbers was always helpful! "I think just those two. Is everyone set? The ride to their spot shouldn't take long if we don't take too many breaks. Our horses were fed before we left, so they won't need much." Water maybe, but there plenty of streams to help.
Anna smiled up at Harpur, but seemed a tad more shy around the other two. "Be safe.." That'd be as far as she'd go, even if she did want to help. She'd watch them leave, but travelling and searching wasn't for her.
Off they'd go, a decent trek (we'll speed up about a day, they rode, they didn't socialize well and likely found an old hunter's cabin).
"This is where a lot of us take a break back and forth. Everyone usually keeps it stocked for the next group, keeps it clean and the like, though I believe Harpur knows that." He hunted, too! Mostly information for the new folks. "We can take the horses to a paddock and search around..?"
[So! if people want to start investigating the cabin, roll d20s!]
Harpur Eberhardt — 03/19/2021
Harpur wasn't expecting anyone he knew to turn up. When he saw Aldo approaching he stiffened up rather visibly and his lips quirked downwards, eyes fixing seriously on the man. He didn't trust him, and he was quick to notice that something wasn't right with that horse either. He narrowed his eyes when given a nod and then spotted...Vaidya. Perhaps his point of view had changed, because he almost seemed happy to see them "Vaidya." he greeted "Your services may be valuable on this trek." after all, they might find the hunters wounded or even dead.
The captain was quiet on the journey after bidding Anna farewell. He kept his eyes peeled for any signs on the trek but none appeared until the cabin. Dismounting he went about examining what he could, especially in the soft soil outside. After a good few minutes of making sense of what was in front of him he frowned "They were here, but they haven't come back." he began, kneeling next to the fresh prints. He rubbed some of the soil between his fingers "...Someone else was here recently. No mount that I can see evidence of." he regarded the group seriously.
Perhaps his worst fears were true, that these men had been hunted themselves. "Eat and rest for only a short time, we need to keep moving."
Aldo — 03/21/2021
The group didn't socialize well at all - Aldo was expectedly chummy (though that horse-that-wasn't would often grimace like a dog or cat smelling something horrible - revealing rows of unnatural, sharp teeth. And whether by discreet - or rather immature - direction or coincidence, this'd most often be in Harpur's direction).
One benefit of having the horse-that-wasn't was that it could track, and it snuffled around while the man remained seated. Eventually though, the horse would go to the paddock
Unfortunately, he'd not found much more than Harpur, and he'd mime the directions to himself, walking through and retracing possible steps, shaking his head, before finally grumbling. "The hunters went in..." Only signs of that near the door, nothing relating to anyone new. Yet. Suppose he had to listen to Harpur, this round.
Vaidya — 03/21/2021
The physician looked up at their title, a slight tilt of their head and raising of their eyebrows; their fluid, nonchalant mannerisms were open and polite, even if they avoided a direct smile. Maybe they wer trying. For Jax. "I hope to be." Which, taken at face-value, was an optimistic declaration that they hoped to find them alive, to be patched up. Definitely. There was nothing sinister there.
They left greetings and departures to the others, securing their own equipment and food to Apples Firesoul (yes, really). Approaching the cabin, the physician dismounted, tying their horse off nearby. They didn't follow after Harpur and Aldo, stepping away themself and looking with a more distracted, distant eye. Perhaps using truthsight, but not focused on the ground, in the soil where Harpur was looking. They stepped off farther to distractedly collect a few mushrooms, wrapping them carefully. They'd picked up some tracking ability from Jaxamir, but apparently they were too good to help.
They returned as Harpur spoke. "Oh? Hm. Do you think it was a coincidence, or an ill-prepared second search party?" They wouldn't get far by horse. Their meal was light and quick—it was easier when they didn't have to contend with Jaxamir's huge appetite—and they rested with a book in hand as they ate, before quickly packing up again.
Rook — 03/21/2021
"They would need a horse if they were planning to catch up with them, wouldn't they?" Rayl asked, and the hunter nodded, even if he seemed unsure.
Once their horses were taken to the back, the pair headed into the cabin, albeit nervously. Inside, everything seemed in order, but one of the windows had been broken enough as if something large punched through it. Food that sat out, jars and the like were either scattered or broken on the spot. The latter were partially empty.
Insects a-plenty.
Harpur Eberhardt — 03/22/2021
"Strange to be out here without a mount anyway... deep enough into the forest now that it'd be real stupid to do it."
Harpur lingered, got some food from their own rations and rested only for a short time...examining the map to plan the route they'd take next. He didn't let them linger long, moving on quickly as if worried that time was of the essence. He'd head along the tracks made by the previous party if there were obvious ones, keeping an eye out on the trail for any extra prints in the soil or discarded items.
Aldo — 03/23/2021
Aldo rested with the group, lying against the creature's flank, hat over his face, barely touching his own rations and offering some startlingly fleshy bits of meat to his own horse-creature. It only heightened the mildly disconcerting sense about the pair when he leaped back into action so sharply from that picture of slightly-unnerving leisure.
And they, too, followed the tracks, doubling back around on some, snuffling about the other, Aldo's mount leaving large paw-prints the size of saucers instead of hoof-prints; there'd be no mistaking one for the other where this creature was concerned.
Vaidya — 03/23/2021
The physician hummed, as if in agreement, resting with their small meal. They likely spoke idle words to Aldo, before hovering nonchalantly over Harpur's shoulder to inspect the map he'd pulled out to plan with. They didn't object to moving on so quickly, packing up their light setup and mounting.
They followed the rest, eyes on the tracks where needed, but also occasionally to the sky, searching for some remnant in the ether that the hunters had met a poor fate. Apples had been a solid choice of mount on Jaxamir's part, for she kept pace with the others while her rider zoned out to look Beyond.
Rook — 03/23/2021
Raylyn joined the group, but the other hunter decided to wait at the cabin, incase more people showed up.
The tracks, at some point, would circle about a few trees almost aimlessly. A jar had found its way out there as well, carrying preserved beets, as if the thief hadn't cared much for them. Eventually, the follower's footsteps ended while the hunters continued.
When they continued, they'd be approached; not by one of the hunters, but a horse. Unfortunately, it walked with a limp and then turned aggressive. Probably cause of their own horses. Tail flagged and head up, the stallion immediately tried pushing the others.
A typical encounter, perhaps, if it wasn't missing half of its flesh.
[Roll to kill, if they want to!]
Harpur Eberhardt — 03/24/2021
Harpur pushed on but the moment that horrible horse made itself known his protective instincts flared up (even if Aldo was one of the people in the group, ugh). He drew his sword quickly "Undead! Don't get bitten, keep your distance" not because people would turn into zombie horses, but if you survived a fight with one you almost always got a damn life threatening infection... Harpur of course didn't know about bacteria but he had seen enough to know it happened plenty.
He of course didn't keep his distance. It was a horse and his legs were armored at least, going around the back of it was sure to get a kick, front would prompt a bite, so he curved his beast around it to come in from a diagonal angle to at least minimize its advantage, bellowing in some attempt to at least startle the thing (worth a try anyway). Getting in close he swung his sword down hard towards the back of its neck to try to sever the spine at the very least. He wasn't stupid enough to cut the arteries of a creature that was already dead.
[rolled 13 to attack]
Rigby — 03/25/2021
His initial attack was a bolt, a shot loosed from a hunting crossbow that whizzed off into the forest harmlessly.
Only because the loper had spilled him directly into the dirt as it had reared and screamed, its own tail flagged and lips peeled back spooked and erratic at the smell of the thing. If he'd more time to think, Aldo would bemoan that he'd not yet had more time to train the beast to be steadier around undead monstrosities, if it were to be any good around him. But
Plan B; focus, get a grasp on the thing, a metaphysical, magical lasso and will it to slow or still for the others to finish it. It wasn't his construct, and he could certainly miss a mental throw...
Vaidya — 03/26/2021
The physician drew their curved tulwar with the rest of them. They may have had an affinity for the undead, but that bond wasn't emotional. The construct was still mindless and dangerous. They circled from a distance as Harpur went in for an attack, knowing their own sharp blade likely wouldn't do much more than nick the flesh. Instead they searched the creature for a tether, some connection either to whoever had animated it, or a physical sink in its form keeping it animated—if there was one. Something they might be able to physically attack, or otherwise sever.
If there was nothing they could focus and disrupt with their attack, they would instead move in to try a fly-by swipe of their long curved sword at the horse's front leg, hoping to hack at it enough that it would fail the creature, leaving it prone.
Rook — 03/27/2021
The undead horse was having none of it. The three of them seemed illprepared, but not shocking, since it just came out of nowhere. It kicked towards Harpur's leg with both of its hindlegs, managing to avoid what the necromantic pair threw its way.
Raylyn attempted to assist himself, even if his horse was ready to buck (less courageous than Harpur's stallion) and he'd fire an arrow from his own crossbow at its eye.
Degu — 03/27/2021
Harpur absolutely feels and hears his knee CRUNCH as hooves make powerful contact with him and force his knee at a nasty angle against the horses side. He lets out a bellowing yell of agony, doubling over. He has to force himself to bite it back as he uses his good leg to charge Valentinus up alongside the horse again and try to drive a sword into its ribcage beneath its front leg. The jostling of the horse doesn't do him any favors and he's panting through the pain.
Aldo — 03/28/2021
Panting and muddy, Aldo climbed back to his feet, loaded up another bolt...and slipped in the mud again at the slight shift in his stance as the next bolt fired.
"FUCK-ing FINE." It was a burst of (rather understandable) rage that bubbled over into those ever-sparking eyes as a furious, brief flare; one that was only dulled somewhat when he saw it actually hit the poor thing.
It (and the surrounding team) was spared the guy jumping down its throat rather literally, for now.
Besides, he should be defending Harpur or something. Maybe.
Vaidya — 04/03/2021
The Vaidya was ill-equipped for horseback combat. They needed something large and heavy to bash the creature's leg out with, and they hadn't that. They circled Apples around where Aldo fell, briefly checking that he was unharmed (except, perhaps, for his ego).
Bringing their horse around again, the fearsome and petite Apples Firesoul charged down the undead harsh again, bringing the physician in close enough for another wide-arced swipe at the creature's front knee, attempting to do enough damage to cause it to buckle. As they did so, they let out a brief, low whistle, either directed to their mount or something else.
Rook — 04/03/2021
It seemed the now-combined efforts of the three would be the horse's second end. It gave another attempt to kick out, though towards Apples this time. Whatever served as the item keeping it going was cracked by Harpur's sword and it went down after. No breath, no movement, just silence.
Rook — 04/08/2021
Inside, when Aldo checks the pulsating hint of magic, he'll find a cracked trinket that reeks of necromantic energy. It looks like a star-filled sphere)
Rigby — 04/08/2021
Perhaps fortunately or unfortunately, there were two members of the necro-trio present in this party, and this was a particular trio that had no compunctions about chasing shiny things. And Aldo himself couldn't resist, even after all of the mess that had preceded this. (His loper had come crawling back in the interim as they searched, head down and ears flattened, apologetically).
"Doctor." A little bob of his head, a little psst and he calls them over (though likely they were moments away from finding this thing, themselves). And unless stopped by someone with a little more impulse control. he'd move to pick it up.
Degu — 04/09/2021
Harpur was gritting his teeth hard, the pain was excruciating. It was probably only a nasty fracture but still enough to put him out the game for a while and he hated that.
He started working on the clasps of his armor on that side, trying to release the pressure before the knee finished swelling up and got him caught up in his damn armor.
Riding a horse like this was going to suck. The jolting would make it worse if he didn't do something to secure it.
He was too distracted to figure anything out and when he saw Zeta lingering and bobbing his head to the doctor he tried to pull back in close with a strangled sound "Have y' found somethin?" he asked through gritted teeth.
Vaidya — 04/09/2021
Shiny things? Did somebody mention shiny things? Having dismounted, the Vaidya reached out to touch a hand to the face of Aldo's stead as it ambled, shame-faced back into the clearing. They turned at their name, dutifully collecting up the sets of reigns but, catching the curiosity and urgency in his 'psst', scampering over with well-concealed intrigue. The Vaidya had not the impulse control he was looking for. They hovered as he picked it up, reached out to touch a finger to the glassy surface as well.
So much for, uh, Doctoring and tending to their injured. The physician looked up at Harpur's words, but wasn't about to share the discovery until Aldo said something. Instead there was a long, drawn pause before they (reluctantly) stepped away to retrieve their bag, retreating to Harpur's side. "Let me see."
Rook — 04/09/2021
Raylynn was concerned about them finding something and he avoided this horse like the plague it was, moving over to the injured Harpur. "Are you going to be alright further and going back? I could find something to cushion your leg against the horse?"
Harpur — 04/09/2021
Harpur grumbled at Vaidya but would let them tend to him if they could "Pretty sure I felt something at least crack. Bastard thing got me good" he huffed.
He almost snapped at Raylynn, he didn't like feeling vulnerable even just a little but then sighed and nodded "Yes- that might help. We're not stopping until we find them."
Aldo — 04/09/2021
Aldo's poor loper seemed grateful for the contact - for however it might have been spooked by their adventure, it seemed plenty content to be around a cambion, voidling, sorceror or chupakri without issue, and after shaking its head and coughing out a few whuffs, it raised its head and stood on guard, at attention.
He knew very well that they'd snatch the thing up if they could and while he did allow their touching it and any insight they might have, he wasn't above shooting them a little immature 'finders-keepers' Look or two, too, should they try anything! His Mystery Pockets were designed to specifically bother sticky fingers, after all.
...oh fiiiiine, guess they had to patch up Harpur first before any fun things happened. He continued to examine his find, occasionally flicking his own magic over it to explore that crack, keeping one ear out to Harpur.
"Let me know if y'need assistance, Doctor!" It probably would've been more professional had he not also been playing with the new toy. And investigating. Totally. See what magic signatures this thing had...
Vaidya — 04/10/2021
Aldo was smart to protect his prize, but the physician was still interested, crouching down to investigate it with him and attempt to offer any insights where their necromantic knowledges didn't overlap. They kept their voice low-ish, not entirely concerned with keeping Harpur out of the loop, but managing a baseline level of respect. They hummed and hawed but eventually let Aldo pocket it properly so that they could retreat to Harpur's side.
"An extra pad would be helpful," spoken to Raylynn's suggestion as they reached out to tenderly stretch out Harpur's leg, feeling along the break. "I can set the bone and fuse the break. In the short term, a splint will keep it steady while we continue." Whatever 'fuse the break' meant--it probably came down to subjecting Harpur to their Bag of Horrors Alchemy Medicine.
Harpur Eberhardt — 04/10/2021
Harpur doesn't question what he hears "I just need to see this trip through, do what you need to do." he'd be good at gritting his teeth through the pain... but once it was all over he'd be determined to set off again regardless. He'd forgotten all thinking Zeta might have found something on the horse for now "Onwards, before the sun gets too low." and no matter the pain he'd ride his horse onward with only one foot in the stirrups. He does however keep his eyes out for the tracks of that undead horse.
Rook — 04/10/2021
Raylyn was happy to let the doctor do their work and he'd dismount from his horse, so he could dig through one of his saddlebags. With the bone properly set, he'd offer a small blanket so Harpur could cushion his leg for the ride ahead. When they were all ready, he joined them once more.
The undead horse's tracks were easy to follow, given the way it had walked and the mess it left against plants and trees alike. Eventually, they'd make it to an old mine that had the mine-carts piled infront as if to act as a barrier. "Should we...?" The young hunter asked, but looked to Harpur for guidance.
It wouldn't be long until a wary voice called out to them, sounding as weary as it did anxious.
Aldo — 04/11/2021
The find is held in full view of the loper so he could snuffle properly at it, before it disappears into Aldo's own bag. It's his, now! And it could be useful for this mystery too, or something. But it's his, now.
He lingers; should anyone require further assistance with setting Harpur's leg, he'd be there to assist - but otherwise he'd hop back on the loper and set off with the lot, once more.
Who's there! would be the call, and he moves to restrain his own mount from moving forward any more. Nearly answers, but Harpur and Raylyn have more information on who's gone, and where. That much is conveyed in a quirk of his brow, a slight frown and 'you-heard-that-right?' expression.
Vaidya — 04/11/2021
The Vaidya's work wasn't pleasant to watch, but it was short and efficient. A congealed-like alchemical substance from a jar, a splint built from sturdy wood and linens, and the brute force of their own two hands to set the fracture. It was sturdier than a mundane fix, allow him to put some pressure on his foot, but it would still need time to fully heal. At the very least, they offered him something to relieve the pain, his bandages soaked in something strong and chemical, and the strip of an altered willow for him to chew on. The doctor thanked Raylyn for his assistance, helping to secure the blanket cushion once Harpur had mounted.
They continued on. At the call, they almost called back--instinctively--but glanced to Aldo. He hadn't, and the doctor followed his look to Harpur and Raylyn for a lead on the situation.
Harpur Eberhardt — 04/11/2021
Harpur thanks Raylyn too, thankful for his camaraderie and concern. He thanks Vaidya most of all but he does NOT enjoy the process, and he seems alarmed by the substance. Maybe it was just a normal medicine? he hoped so.
Once they found the site he held up a hand to halt them all "Looks like they barricaded themselves in...but trust nothing in these woods. Fae will leave babies cradles as bait in the middle of the woods, deception is rife." he growled and slowly eased a little closer but stayed back.
"Captain Harpur Eberhardt of Thornmouth Guard. I am here with a rescue team!" he calls to the mine "Who are you?" he calls in, rather than asking if they are the missing hunters, he wants to hear something that will make him trust them.
Rook — 04/11/2021
Raylynn merely watched as the Vaidya worked, but he was no medic. Thankfully, it seemed Harpur wouldn't need to rush back, though he would've taken him to the cabin if need be. Like the others, the voice that called out concerned him, too and he stayed back to watch the other area.
An ambush could be a very real threat.
Instead of threats or anything, one of the hunters, Bazyck, stepped out from the darkness with a limp and he'd move a cart. "It's my friend and I, but there's a horse roaming about. Dead thing, and aggressive."
Aldo — 04/15/2021
"We've met." It's wry and understated and slightly smirking despite his best intentions; Aldo would feel a bit more comfortable answering now that Harpur had broken the silence. Rank and presentation mattered until the hunters would imply it didn't. "The horse, I mean." Not that he needed clarification! "You don't have to worry about the horse, any more."
His loper shifts from paw to paw, snuffling at the darkness, and Aldo's own eyes keep flicking about at any slight movement around them.
Vaidya — 04/19/2021
The physician, at least, doesn't rubit in Harpur's face. They remained polite, and--dare one say--professional? Not quite avoiding his eye but working diligently without meeting it.
As the hunter steppedout of the darkened tunnel, the vaidya leaned subtly to peer behind him for the companion he spoke of. Or anything else. "The creature has been dealt with. You are in need of medical aid. Is your companion injured as well?"
Harpur Eberhardt — 04/26/2021
Everyone said as much as Harpur had hoped to, now he wanted to see the man (or men) inside. "Come out. It's safe...We need to know that you are who you say you are." he said with authoritative tone despite the throbbing pain in his leg.
Rook — 04/26/2021
[Going to speed this up with a let's say sort of thing, since it lasted a while]
The hunters would come out, certainly showing they were who the said they were. They likely took some damage from the horse, but not to the extent of Harpur. When likely prompted, they'd tell their story of finding some strange things in the mine that hinted to ritualistic and that's when the horse showed up to refuse to let them out. What they found inside were strange footprints, a sort of altar and a mess of blood and entrails.
Some from the horse, some not.
They would've brought a couple strange trinkets, if the group wanted them. As Aldo already has the one, the rest available are:
Dark Candle
When lit, the candle surrounds the person in shadows, giving them the ability to pass through areas unseen during the night. If they stand in one spot, they're also unnoticeable to anyone going by them. While the strange wax never melts, the effect lasts for only an hour a night.
Amulet of Blade Ward
A soldier's amulet, perhaps lost. It's fitted on a silver chain with a pendant of a man holding a sword at his chest. It grants the wearer one opportunity per day to use Blade Ward in combat.
For Aldo's:
While cracked, it can be mended with magic. It grants the user the ability to heighten their magic or, when attuned to another creature, grants them the ability to control it from a distance unless the connection is broken.
Planning up my event here, as mentioned before.
The group will be led by Harpur, likely, or one of the NPC hunters who knows the spot the missing group had been going to. During the RP, people can roll (d20) to see if their characters find anything during their trek and when they get to the area mentioned.
Rook — 03/17/2021
At the rendezvous spot, the pair of hunters waited alongside Anna, all equipped with camping gear and a couple of sturdy-looking horses. Weapons, too, because they were like going to hunt for their dinner rather than bring along supplies for that. Water, however, was the other necessity brought as well. Once the others arrived, the younger hunter; Raylyn faced them and nodded a greeting.
Degu — 03/17/2021
Harpur arrived on Valentinus, the horse loaded up heavily with enough gear for at least a couple of nights in the woods. They were going into dangerous territory and so he regarded them seriously, nodding "Good morning." and he smiled more tenderly to poor Anna. "Are you all ready? are we waiting on anyone?"
Rigby — 03/17/2021
Perhaps unfortunately for Harpur, this one attracted a mercenary. And doubly unfortunate for Harpur, he would have recognized this one: an armed Aldo, eyes unlit (relatively), leading something that appeared as a horse saddled with the necessities on first glance...if one ignored the oddly-jointed legs and clawed paws. But other than that, the most unusual thing about the man today was how usual he was. Even the smile and nod for Harpur was one someone would give a stranger.
AJ — 03/19/2021
Harpur may have been hoping to avoid Bazil showing up on this trip, but he'd failed to consider the alternative: a tiny, emotionally detached Indian! And on whose shoulders inevitably rested the weight of the future of his new friendship with a certain knuckle-headed definitely-human. Better impress them! The doctor rocked up not on anything horrifyingly uncanny-valley Eldritch, but on a simple cream and black mare. A new sight. They checked their bags, but didn't do much in the way of offering greetings.
Rook — 03/19/2021
"We are, yes. Have you-." Before Rayl could finish, the other two showed up and he nodded to them. More numbers was always helpful! "I think just those two. Is everyone set? The ride to their spot shouldn't take long if we don't take too many breaks. Our horses were fed before we left, so they won't need much." Water maybe, but there plenty of streams to help.
Anna smiled up at Harpur, but seemed a tad more shy around the other two. "Be safe.." That'd be as far as she'd go, even if she did want to help. She'd watch them leave, but travelling and searching wasn't for her.
Off they'd go, a decent trek (we'll speed up about a day, they rode, they didn't socialize well and likely found an old hunter's cabin).
"This is where a lot of us take a break back and forth. Everyone usually keeps it stocked for the next group, keeps it clean and the like, though I believe Harpur knows that." He hunted, too! Mostly information for the new folks. "We can take the horses to a paddock and search around..?"
[So! if people want to start investigating the cabin, roll d20s!]
Harpur Eberhardt — 03/19/2021
Harpur wasn't expecting anyone he knew to turn up. When he saw Aldo approaching he stiffened up rather visibly and his lips quirked downwards, eyes fixing seriously on the man. He didn't trust him, and he was quick to notice that something wasn't right with that horse either. He narrowed his eyes when given a nod and then spotted...Vaidya. Perhaps his point of view had changed, because he almost seemed happy to see them "Vaidya." he greeted "Your services may be valuable on this trek." after all, they might find the hunters wounded or even dead.
The captain was quiet on the journey after bidding Anna farewell. He kept his eyes peeled for any signs on the trek but none appeared until the cabin. Dismounting he went about examining what he could, especially in the soft soil outside. After a good few minutes of making sense of what was in front of him he frowned "They were here, but they haven't come back." he began, kneeling next to the fresh prints. He rubbed some of the soil between his fingers "...Someone else was here recently. No mount that I can see evidence of." he regarded the group seriously.
Perhaps his worst fears were true, that these men had been hunted themselves. "Eat and rest for only a short time, we need to keep moving."
Aldo — 03/21/2021
The group didn't socialize well at all - Aldo was expectedly chummy (though that horse-that-wasn't would often grimace like a dog or cat smelling something horrible - revealing rows of unnatural, sharp teeth. And whether by discreet - or rather immature - direction or coincidence, this'd most often be in Harpur's direction).
One benefit of having the horse-that-wasn't was that it could track, and it snuffled around while the man remained seated. Eventually though, the horse would go to the paddock
Unfortunately, he'd not found much more than Harpur, and he'd mime the directions to himself, walking through and retracing possible steps, shaking his head, before finally grumbling. "The hunters went in..." Only signs of that near the door, nothing relating to anyone new. Yet. Suppose he had to listen to Harpur, this round.
Vaidya — 03/21/2021
The physician looked up at their title, a slight tilt of their head and raising of their eyebrows; their fluid, nonchalant mannerisms were open and polite, even if they avoided a direct smile. Maybe they wer trying. For Jax. "I hope to be." Which, taken at face-value, was an optimistic declaration that they hoped to find them alive, to be patched up. Definitely. There was nothing sinister there.
They left greetings and departures to the others, securing their own equipment and food to Apples Firesoul (yes, really). Approaching the cabin, the physician dismounted, tying their horse off nearby. They didn't follow after Harpur and Aldo, stepping away themself and looking with a more distracted, distant eye. Perhaps using truthsight, but not focused on the ground, in the soil where Harpur was looking. They stepped off farther to distractedly collect a few mushrooms, wrapping them carefully. They'd picked up some tracking ability from Jaxamir, but apparently they were too good to help.
They returned as Harpur spoke. "Oh? Hm. Do you think it was a coincidence, or an ill-prepared second search party?" They wouldn't get far by horse. Their meal was light and quick—it was easier when they didn't have to contend with Jaxamir's huge appetite—and they rested with a book in hand as they ate, before quickly packing up again.
Rook — 03/21/2021
"They would need a horse if they were planning to catch up with them, wouldn't they?" Rayl asked, and the hunter nodded, even if he seemed unsure.
Once their horses were taken to the back, the pair headed into the cabin, albeit nervously. Inside, everything seemed in order, but one of the windows had been broken enough as if something large punched through it. Food that sat out, jars and the like were either scattered or broken on the spot. The latter were partially empty.
Insects a-plenty.
Harpur Eberhardt — 03/22/2021
"Strange to be out here without a mount anyway... deep enough into the forest now that it'd be real stupid to do it."
Harpur lingered, got some food from their own rations and rested only for a short time...examining the map to plan the route they'd take next. He didn't let them linger long, moving on quickly as if worried that time was of the essence. He'd head along the tracks made by the previous party if there were obvious ones, keeping an eye out on the trail for any extra prints in the soil or discarded items.
Aldo — 03/23/2021
Aldo rested with the group, lying against the creature's flank, hat over his face, barely touching his own rations and offering some startlingly fleshy bits of meat to his own horse-creature. It only heightened the mildly disconcerting sense about the pair when he leaped back into action so sharply from that picture of slightly-unnerving leisure.
And they, too, followed the tracks, doubling back around on some, snuffling about the other, Aldo's mount leaving large paw-prints the size of saucers instead of hoof-prints; there'd be no mistaking one for the other where this creature was concerned.
Vaidya — 03/23/2021
The physician hummed, as if in agreement, resting with their small meal. They likely spoke idle words to Aldo, before hovering nonchalantly over Harpur's shoulder to inspect the map he'd pulled out to plan with. They didn't object to moving on so quickly, packing up their light setup and mounting.
They followed the rest, eyes on the tracks where needed, but also occasionally to the sky, searching for some remnant in the ether that the hunters had met a poor fate. Apples had been a solid choice of mount on Jaxamir's part, for she kept pace with the others while her rider zoned out to look Beyond.
Rook — 03/23/2021
Raylyn joined the group, but the other hunter decided to wait at the cabin, incase more people showed up.
The tracks, at some point, would circle about a few trees almost aimlessly. A jar had found its way out there as well, carrying preserved beets, as if the thief hadn't cared much for them. Eventually, the follower's footsteps ended while the hunters continued.
When they continued, they'd be approached; not by one of the hunters, but a horse. Unfortunately, it walked with a limp and then turned aggressive. Probably cause of their own horses. Tail flagged and head up, the stallion immediately tried pushing the others.
A typical encounter, perhaps, if it wasn't missing half of its flesh.
[Roll to kill, if they want to!]
Harpur Eberhardt — 03/24/2021
Harpur pushed on but the moment that horrible horse made itself known his protective instincts flared up (even if Aldo was one of the people in the group, ugh). He drew his sword quickly "Undead! Don't get bitten, keep your distance" not because people would turn into zombie horses, but if you survived a fight with one you almost always got a damn life threatening infection... Harpur of course didn't know about bacteria but he had seen enough to know it happened plenty.
He of course didn't keep his distance. It was a horse and his legs were armored at least, going around the back of it was sure to get a kick, front would prompt a bite, so he curved his beast around it to come in from a diagonal angle to at least minimize its advantage, bellowing in some attempt to at least startle the thing (worth a try anyway). Getting in close he swung his sword down hard towards the back of its neck to try to sever the spine at the very least. He wasn't stupid enough to cut the arteries of a creature that was already dead.
[rolled 13 to attack]
Rigby — 03/25/2021
His initial attack was a bolt, a shot loosed from a hunting crossbow that whizzed off into the forest harmlessly.
Only because the loper had spilled him directly into the dirt as it had reared and screamed, its own tail flagged and lips peeled back spooked and erratic at the smell of the thing. If he'd more time to think, Aldo would bemoan that he'd not yet had more time to train the beast to be steadier around undead monstrosities, if it were to be any good around him. But
Plan B; focus, get a grasp on the thing, a metaphysical, magical lasso and will it to slow or still for the others to finish it. It wasn't his construct, and he could certainly miss a mental throw...
Vaidya — 03/26/2021
The physician drew their curved tulwar with the rest of them. They may have had an affinity for the undead, but that bond wasn't emotional. The construct was still mindless and dangerous. They circled from a distance as Harpur went in for an attack, knowing their own sharp blade likely wouldn't do much more than nick the flesh. Instead they searched the creature for a tether, some connection either to whoever had animated it, or a physical sink in its form keeping it animated—if there was one. Something they might be able to physically attack, or otherwise sever.
If there was nothing they could focus and disrupt with their attack, they would instead move in to try a fly-by swipe of their long curved sword at the horse's front leg, hoping to hack at it enough that it would fail the creature, leaving it prone.
Rook — 03/27/2021
The undead horse was having none of it. The three of them seemed illprepared, but not shocking, since it just came out of nowhere. It kicked towards Harpur's leg with both of its hindlegs, managing to avoid what the necromantic pair threw its way.
Raylyn attempted to assist himself, even if his horse was ready to buck (less courageous than Harpur's stallion) and he'd fire an arrow from his own crossbow at its eye.
Degu — 03/27/2021
Harpur absolutely feels and hears his knee CRUNCH as hooves make powerful contact with him and force his knee at a nasty angle against the horses side. He lets out a bellowing yell of agony, doubling over. He has to force himself to bite it back as he uses his good leg to charge Valentinus up alongside the horse again and try to drive a sword into its ribcage beneath its front leg. The jostling of the horse doesn't do him any favors and he's panting through the pain.
Aldo — 03/28/2021
Panting and muddy, Aldo climbed back to his feet, loaded up another bolt...and slipped in the mud again at the slight shift in his stance as the next bolt fired.
"FUCK-ing FINE." It was a burst of (rather understandable) rage that bubbled over into those ever-sparking eyes as a furious, brief flare; one that was only dulled somewhat when he saw it actually hit the poor thing.
It (and the surrounding team) was spared the guy jumping down its throat rather literally, for now.
Besides, he should be defending Harpur or something. Maybe.
Vaidya — 04/03/2021
The Vaidya was ill-equipped for horseback combat. They needed something large and heavy to bash the creature's leg out with, and they hadn't that. They circled Apples around where Aldo fell, briefly checking that he was unharmed (except, perhaps, for his ego).
Bringing their horse around again, the fearsome and petite Apples Firesoul charged down the undead harsh again, bringing the physician in close enough for another wide-arced swipe at the creature's front knee, attempting to do enough damage to cause it to buckle. As they did so, they let out a brief, low whistle, either directed to their mount or something else.
Rook — 04/03/2021
It seemed the now-combined efforts of the three would be the horse's second end. It gave another attempt to kick out, though towards Apples this time. Whatever served as the item keeping it going was cracked by Harpur's sword and it went down after. No breath, no movement, just silence.
Rook — 04/08/2021
Inside, when Aldo checks the pulsating hint of magic, he'll find a cracked trinket that reeks of necromantic energy. It looks like a star-filled sphere)
Rigby — 04/08/2021
Perhaps fortunately or unfortunately, there were two members of the necro-trio present in this party, and this was a particular trio that had no compunctions about chasing shiny things. And Aldo himself couldn't resist, even after all of the mess that had preceded this. (His loper had come crawling back in the interim as they searched, head down and ears flattened, apologetically).
"Doctor." A little bob of his head, a little psst and he calls them over (though likely they were moments away from finding this thing, themselves). And unless stopped by someone with a little more impulse control. he'd move to pick it up.
Degu — 04/09/2021
Harpur was gritting his teeth hard, the pain was excruciating. It was probably only a nasty fracture but still enough to put him out the game for a while and he hated that.
He started working on the clasps of his armor on that side, trying to release the pressure before the knee finished swelling up and got him caught up in his damn armor.
Riding a horse like this was going to suck. The jolting would make it worse if he didn't do something to secure it.
He was too distracted to figure anything out and when he saw Zeta lingering and bobbing his head to the doctor he tried to pull back in close with a strangled sound "Have y' found somethin?" he asked through gritted teeth.
Vaidya — 04/09/2021
Shiny things? Did somebody mention shiny things? Having dismounted, the Vaidya reached out to touch a hand to the face of Aldo's stead as it ambled, shame-faced back into the clearing. They turned at their name, dutifully collecting up the sets of reigns but, catching the curiosity and urgency in his 'psst', scampering over with well-concealed intrigue. The Vaidya had not the impulse control he was looking for. They hovered as he picked it up, reached out to touch a finger to the glassy surface as well.
So much for, uh, Doctoring and tending to their injured. The physician looked up at Harpur's words, but wasn't about to share the discovery until Aldo said something. Instead there was a long, drawn pause before they (reluctantly) stepped away to retrieve their bag, retreating to Harpur's side. "Let me see."
Rook — 04/09/2021
Raylynn was concerned about them finding something and he avoided this horse like the plague it was, moving over to the injured Harpur. "Are you going to be alright further and going back? I could find something to cushion your leg against the horse?"
Harpur — 04/09/2021
Harpur grumbled at Vaidya but would let them tend to him if they could "Pretty sure I felt something at least crack. Bastard thing got me good" he huffed.
He almost snapped at Raylynn, he didn't like feeling vulnerable even just a little but then sighed and nodded "Yes- that might help. We're not stopping until we find them."
Aldo — 04/09/2021
Aldo's poor loper seemed grateful for the contact - for however it might have been spooked by their adventure, it seemed plenty content to be around a cambion, voidling, sorceror or chupakri without issue, and after shaking its head and coughing out a few whuffs, it raised its head and stood on guard, at attention.
He knew very well that they'd snatch the thing up if they could and while he did allow their touching it and any insight they might have, he wasn't above shooting them a little immature 'finders-keepers' Look or two, too, should they try anything! His Mystery Pockets were designed to specifically bother sticky fingers, after all.
...oh fiiiiine, guess they had to patch up Harpur first before any fun things happened. He continued to examine his find, occasionally flicking his own magic over it to explore that crack, keeping one ear out to Harpur.
"Let me know if y'need assistance, Doctor!" It probably would've been more professional had he not also been playing with the new toy. And investigating. Totally. See what magic signatures this thing had...
Vaidya — 04/10/2021
Aldo was smart to protect his prize, but the physician was still interested, crouching down to investigate it with him and attempt to offer any insights where their necromantic knowledges didn't overlap. They kept their voice low-ish, not entirely concerned with keeping Harpur out of the loop, but managing a baseline level of respect. They hummed and hawed but eventually let Aldo pocket it properly so that they could retreat to Harpur's side.
"An extra pad would be helpful," spoken to Raylynn's suggestion as they reached out to tenderly stretch out Harpur's leg, feeling along the break. "I can set the bone and fuse the break. In the short term, a splint will keep it steady while we continue." Whatever 'fuse the break' meant--it probably came down to subjecting Harpur to their Bag of Horrors Alchemy Medicine.
Harpur Eberhardt — 04/10/2021
Harpur doesn't question what he hears "I just need to see this trip through, do what you need to do." he'd be good at gritting his teeth through the pain... but once it was all over he'd be determined to set off again regardless. He'd forgotten all thinking Zeta might have found something on the horse for now "Onwards, before the sun gets too low." and no matter the pain he'd ride his horse onward with only one foot in the stirrups. He does however keep his eyes out for the tracks of that undead horse.
Rook — 04/10/2021
Raylyn was happy to let the doctor do their work and he'd dismount from his horse, so he could dig through one of his saddlebags. With the bone properly set, he'd offer a small blanket so Harpur could cushion his leg for the ride ahead. When they were all ready, he joined them once more.
The undead horse's tracks were easy to follow, given the way it had walked and the mess it left against plants and trees alike. Eventually, they'd make it to an old mine that had the mine-carts piled infront as if to act as a barrier. "Should we...?" The young hunter asked, but looked to Harpur for guidance.
It wouldn't be long until a wary voice called out to them, sounding as weary as it did anxious.
Aldo — 04/11/2021
The find is held in full view of the loper so he could snuffle properly at it, before it disappears into Aldo's own bag. It's his, now! And it could be useful for this mystery too, or something. But it's his, now.
He lingers; should anyone require further assistance with setting Harpur's leg, he'd be there to assist - but otherwise he'd hop back on the loper and set off with the lot, once more.
Who's there! would be the call, and he moves to restrain his own mount from moving forward any more. Nearly answers, but Harpur and Raylyn have more information on who's gone, and where. That much is conveyed in a quirk of his brow, a slight frown and 'you-heard-that-right?' expression.
Vaidya — 04/11/2021
The Vaidya's work wasn't pleasant to watch, but it was short and efficient. A congealed-like alchemical substance from a jar, a splint built from sturdy wood and linens, and the brute force of their own two hands to set the fracture. It was sturdier than a mundane fix, allow him to put some pressure on his foot, but it would still need time to fully heal. At the very least, they offered him something to relieve the pain, his bandages soaked in something strong and chemical, and the strip of an altered willow for him to chew on. The doctor thanked Raylyn for his assistance, helping to secure the blanket cushion once Harpur had mounted.
They continued on. At the call, they almost called back--instinctively--but glanced to Aldo. He hadn't, and the doctor followed his look to Harpur and Raylyn for a lead on the situation.
Harpur Eberhardt — 04/11/2021
Harpur thanks Raylyn too, thankful for his camaraderie and concern. He thanks Vaidya most of all but he does NOT enjoy the process, and he seems alarmed by the substance. Maybe it was just a normal medicine? he hoped so.
Once they found the site he held up a hand to halt them all "Looks like they barricaded themselves in...but trust nothing in these woods. Fae will leave babies cradles as bait in the middle of the woods, deception is rife." he growled and slowly eased a little closer but stayed back.
"Captain Harpur Eberhardt of Thornmouth Guard. I am here with a rescue team!" he calls to the mine "Who are you?" he calls in, rather than asking if they are the missing hunters, he wants to hear something that will make him trust them.
Rook — 04/11/2021
Raylynn merely watched as the Vaidya worked, but he was no medic. Thankfully, it seemed Harpur wouldn't need to rush back, though he would've taken him to the cabin if need be. Like the others, the voice that called out concerned him, too and he stayed back to watch the other area.
An ambush could be a very real threat.
Instead of threats or anything, one of the hunters, Bazyck, stepped out from the darkness with a limp and he'd move a cart. "It's my friend and I, but there's a horse roaming about. Dead thing, and aggressive."
Aldo — 04/15/2021
"We've met." It's wry and understated and slightly smirking despite his best intentions; Aldo would feel a bit more comfortable answering now that Harpur had broken the silence. Rank and presentation mattered until the hunters would imply it didn't. "The horse, I mean." Not that he needed clarification! "You don't have to worry about the horse, any more."
His loper shifts from paw to paw, snuffling at the darkness, and Aldo's own eyes keep flicking about at any slight movement around them.
Vaidya — 04/19/2021
The physician, at least, doesn't rubit in Harpur's face. They remained polite, and--dare one say--professional? Not quite avoiding his eye but working diligently without meeting it.
As the hunter steppedout of the darkened tunnel, the vaidya leaned subtly to peer behind him for the companion he spoke of. Or anything else. "The creature has been dealt with. You are in need of medical aid. Is your companion injured as well?"
Harpur Eberhardt — 04/26/2021
Everyone said as much as Harpur had hoped to, now he wanted to see the man (or men) inside. "Come out. It's safe...We need to know that you are who you say you are." he said with authoritative tone despite the throbbing pain in his leg.
Rook — 04/26/2021
[Going to speed this up with a let's say sort of thing, since it lasted a while]
The hunters would come out, certainly showing they were who the said they were. They likely took some damage from the horse, but not to the extent of Harpur. When likely prompted, they'd tell their story of finding some strange things in the mine that hinted to ritualistic and that's when the horse showed up to refuse to let them out. What they found inside were strange footprints, a sort of altar and a mess of blood and entrails.
Some from the horse, some not.
They would've brought a couple strange trinkets, if the group wanted them. As Aldo already has the one, the rest available are:
Dark Candle
When lit, the candle surrounds the person in shadows, giving them the ability to pass through areas unseen during the night. If they stand in one spot, they're also unnoticeable to anyone going by them. While the strange wax never melts, the effect lasts for only an hour a night.
Amulet of Blade Ward
A soldier's amulet, perhaps lost. It's fitted on a silver chain with a pendant of a man holding a sword at his chest. It grants the wearer one opportunity per day to use Blade Ward in combat.
For Aldo's:
While cracked, it can be mended with magic. It grants the user the ability to heighten their magic or, when attuned to another creature, grants them the ability to control it from a distance unless the connection is broken.
