The Tale of a Lycanthrope IC

[Zweanslord]

The Tale of a Lycanthrope

Solo Campaign for Kanllu Soress (http://www.thetangledweb.net/forums/profiler/view_char.php?cid=38964), played by tonberryking.

OOC Thread: http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=157770

-----

The evening turned darker as Kanllu Soress found herself on the run from the place she had called home for two decades. The undergrowth rustled under her feet and she could narrowly avoid a branch hidden by the shadow of a tree looming over her as she ran underneath it. Had she run far enough already?

Quickly able to dodge the streak of bright moonlight falling down amidst the trees that would certainly betray her presence if she was being followed closely, the question was if she was truly being followed.

Having escaped her elderly home, the home where her parents and siblings now lay as mere corpses, she could only wonder if the assasin had tracked her. She remembered the strangeness of the assassin. It had dark scales and a form that might resemble the lizardfolk had it not been for that dinosaurus head. Standing tall, it had brutally clawed through Kanllu's mother and it might have done to same to Kanllu. Her arrow had hardly managed to hurt it, if at all. She remembered how it had stepped over the corpse of her sibling, one of the twins, towards her. Having come after hearing her mother shrieking, her presence seemed to have surprised the strange dinohuman.

Had it not been for the guards, the strange cross between a megaraptor and a human might have been able to land in more attacks than just the bite. She remembered Peter Rusan, a sturdy and burly guard shouting towards her: "<b>FLEE!</b>" After which he led the ensemble of guards into their doom. Even as she ran she heard the last cries of death from the guards. Taking a shortcut through the house and leaping away, she had run away, heading through some sneaking routes towards the small forest nearby. Having the clarity of mind to tie some cloth around the bite bleeding on her arm before having left, she had no clue if she was being persued.

And now she stood in the forest, a chilly wind blowing through her short hair. Her parents were no more. Those twenty years full of emotion, from love to the anger of the last few nights, what did they mean to Kanllu now that her family was brutally killed, leaving her as only witness?

Standing in the forest where her family was known to hunt some wildlife, was she now to be hunted as well? So far, she had heard no persuers. And what options did she have remaining? As the chilly breeze for a moment brought some peace of mind, thoughts about the nearby surroundings stirred through her.

The Soress home was not too far, where she had gotten from. It lay close to the Sante woods, where she was currently in. She knew that only one ranger in the service of the Soress family made his home in the forest itself. The ranger's hut was still a distance away, but was the closest she knew of.
The city of Tarien was the closest civilisation, a coastal city. Where the Soress home stands on the same hill where the Sante woods are on, Tarien stands on the base. While Tarien was not directly visible from the home, a few hundred meters from the house had stood a small building on a rising that did give an excellent view of the city.

The Soress home was not the only home they had. In Torien was another home, but that was mostly for business and local arrangements if the Duke had to discuss things until late in the night there and did not return to the larger home just outside of Torien. Or if he received captains for a short visit before they left from the docks of Torien again.

However, Torien was not in the direction she was currently going, which is northeast. Torien was rather the opposite direction, south-west, beyond her home. Though she could naturally move in a circle around, taking the long way through the forest or the other way around along the base of the hill. If she went as she was going now, she would head through quite a lot of forest, but would vagually go in the direction of the village of Woodsthrive, a village filled with woodcutters to the east. It was a peculiar village, as it was not always on the same location. The woodcutters shifted their activities to other huts as they cut down parts of the forest and let it grow again. This leaves quite a lot of places along the eastern edge of the forest where therer are growing forest with nearby abandoned huts.

There was a road near the base of the hill, going around fully, though to the west the forest stretched longer. There were other villages, towns and hamlets further away, but those she could not reach this evening, that was sure.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu runs a hand through her sweaty cropped tuft, daring to close her eyes for a moment, just a moment before she puts her back to a sturdy tree and surveys the path she came from, one arrow of startlingly few pulled back.

It wasn't her bow. She'd dropped her precious 'toy' when the raptor bit her; and it was even a miracle she'd had it at the time for a single shot.

When the guards swarmed over the monster, one of Hanovar's squires saw her stagger into a run from the foyer and threw her his own weapon and arrows, trusting in the sharp spear he had with him. The fool; Tamo was one of the reckless ones but his heart was utterly loyal.

Blinking back sweat, Kanllu tried to focus on the matters at hand but instead she merely thought of what'd been going on. Her 'mother' Rachelle was reminding her of who her real mother was and the shouting had started from there. Sir Hanovar was trying to keep out of it, red faced, Fahn was jeering at her and...and alot of things. Hanovar had staggered from the room, bloodied, possibly dying to call the alarm. She had no choice but to leave his body where it lay and flee.

Rachelle'd been ignorant of what Father had intended for her to be, a lackey to one of her half brothers, and a wedge had (purposely?) been driven between them. She had wanted a daughter, and Kanllu spurning dresses and courtly things to shoot a bow and lead men alienated the women.

She allowed herself a sigh. What might've been. Rachelle's attempt to actually befriend Kanllu after her concubine mother died made more sense in bitter hindsight. She felt no loss of love for Fahn though; even though he didn't deserve to leave this world the way he did. While Anllu gained the presence of mind to leave his hardy half sister be and concerned himself with impressing the king's court every other season, Fahn wanted her put in her place from the moment he had the idea that he would be the next duke. Not that that mattered now. The killer had come from where Anllu was, already bloodied, and Fahn's guts were all over the floor.

"A bastard child has no royal claim unless it is by default." her father had said, thinking it would end Kanllu's hopes. Well, laugh it up, she is by default now... If she can live through the night.

Her home wasn't safe. She couldn't risk doubling back and re-arming herself because the monster could be gorging itself on the remains of the duke's livery, waiting for her. If she wanted to live long enough to claim herself Duchess of the south, she'd at least need more arrows and any cadre of remaining men her father didn't have in the villa. Which meant Torien...

The woodcutters were close too, though none would recognize her but the closest aide was the ranger loyal to Hanovar and her father. She'd known him for some time, and recognition helped. She'd at least force supplies out of him and for him to spread the alarm; if he wouldn't help her otherwise, she'd go to Torien herself. She was known to a few residents, and she had her signet ring around a chain on her neck. It was the best she could hope for, as she starts to duck under some underbrush towards the ranger known as Grenn.


Hokay, big first coupla posts, big so I can establish some of my own input... but also, ROLLS:
Spot/listen: [roll0] / [roll1]
Move silently: [roll2]
Survival: [roll3]

She's going to make for the ranger's station (*snicker*) and try to see about getting a melee weapon at the least and start sounding the alarm. However, if it doesn't look too good she will double back, damn sleep, and make for Torien post-haste.

[Zweanslord]

The hooting of an owl became apparant as she listened to the wind softly rustling the leaves of the trees. A bit further away, she heard the light threading of some small wildlife rustling through the undergrowth before it became silent - another prey meetings its end at the mighty claw of the hunter.

Yet there seemed to be no sign of anybody chasing her. Her own steps were so silent she herself had difficulty pinpointing a flaw in her footwork. Even if there was somebody out there, to be heard she would not be, or so one would hope.

Starting to make her way towards the woods, she moves through the dark forest, with only a few rays of moonlight sometimes hitting through the folliage. Time passes and still, Grenn's hut is not in sight. Moving over the roots of another tree, she thought that the hut was closer than this, but continues on. What seems like hours pass, though they could have been just a few hours, Kanllu has difficulty telling. What she does know as she halts at a tree is that she has become lost. Watching carefully, she tries to re-align herself and find the correct destination. Confident and sure of herself that she is on the right road, she follows her direction sense and sets out.

After an hour, that confidence is shattered as she realises that she has been going totally the wrong way. The trees are not this tall near Grenn's hut! She figures that she must have went more west or north, but is still unsure of where she is, having to admit that she is lost. She can guess that Grenn's hut is now even further away than when she began, though. And it is much later in the night now. With no idea where she actually is in the Sante forest late at night and tiredness setting in as she remains in this dark forest, much gloomier than during the day, what will Kanllu do now?

[tonberryking]

Kanllu, in misery and ill temper nearly fires an arrow from frustration but eases the string back knowing that wouldn't do her any good. Neither would simply parking it under a tree for the evening, but her options are few.

However those options do preclude going above a tree. Feeling childish but not dismissing the help it will bring Kanllu skirts through the surrounding woods until she finds a very tall tree with an overabundance of thick branches a veritable ladder, or the closest relative chunk of wood, and takes her time climbing it A take ten 13 here, lemme know if I should roll. with her bow slung over a shoulder. Crawling up through the branches, Kanllu dares climb as high as she can, as high as the tree will bear her weight and hopefully this includes breaking over the tree line itself.

She doesn't care if it means she's out in the open. Or that under the pale moon she could be seen. Simply put, one would have to be able to fly to see her upper body poking through the leaves and if she has that kind of trouble on her hands, she's as good as dead.

Hopefully up above she can see enough of the terrain bathed in moonlight and judge her position from there, inwardly thankful that as a child she was perhaps the only Soress child who had much of a childhood that involved climbing anything else than a social ladder.

[roll0] Spot check with base modifier.. I know there's gotta be other mods for the height and time of night. Also a survival roll:[roll1]EDIT: whoops, that should be a flat 10 total.

[tonberryking]

...or so she thought. A branch snapped off in her hand and the following tumble bruised Kanllu up but good. She has to cover her mouth from swearing or gasping aloud and thanks whatever luck left to her she didn't break anything in her body or any of her arrows. Bruised? Maybe. But it could be worse; her arm could be bent at the wrong angle. Or worse her bow would be splinters.

But that did it. Dragging herself up, and plunging into the woods at random, Kanllu treks ahead trying to find a path. She's stubborn. As a mule according to Hanovar, and the humiliation that despite no one else seeing makes her even the more rash for it. She's going to find some damn help if she traipses through the forest all night--her family's dead and she's not going to sleep out in the woods like an animal over it.


[roll0] Survival check comes first this time. And then move silently and spot/listen: [roll1] [roll2][roll3]

[Zweanslord]

As Kunllu presses on, she realises that while her stubbornness is carrying her forward, she is taxing her body as she continues trekking through the forest. Fatigue sets in and though Kanllu does move on, it is not an easy task.

You are now fatigued.

But despite that, she continues on and on. While her body may feel the burden increase as she heaves herself further through the forest, she feels confident that she is following the course she has so randomly set out. She hears some wildlife skitter in the distance, but nothing that seems out of the ordinary.

Trees pass on and on and evnetually, the trees become almost a blur as Kanllu feels a weight pressing down the lids of her eyes. Stubborness is keeping them up and denying her body the rest it longs for. While she is certain that she is heading in the same direction as before, she has to admit that the woods seem unfamiliar here. She has never been here before during these dark hours.

But that does not matter. As long as she keeps heading straight on, she will find the outskirts at one point, no? And indeed, her stubbornness carries her far and on in that direction. Time loses meaning as she moves on, but it all pays off eventually. She sees light piercing through the foliage as the foliage thins. Is it moonlight? It matters not as she moves on.

And then, she finds herself on the outskirts of the forest. At the base of hte hill the forest is located on. Finally, her back is to the forest. And she sees now that the light she saw was not that of the moon, but of the sun. She has trudged through the forest all night long. Now she has found her way out of the forest, the burden of fatigue seems to come down crashing even more.

You are now exhausted.

What may be worse is that the surroundings are only vaguely familiar at the moment. Kanllu knows this is not near Torien nor Woodsthrive. But whether this is to the north or west of the forest? She has difficulty telling, especially because her mind seems a bit foggy because of the exhaustion.

In the distance she sees the path that circles the hill and the forest and beyond that, she sees the plains surrounding the hill. The path seems to lead around, but a bit away it splits up and the road leading away from the hill instead leads to a hamlet further away. Kanllu's guess is that in this state, she could reach it in an hour or so. Further in the distance there seem to be other things visible, but those are too far out of reach for Kanllu's tired body to take her now.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu lets a hoarse groan escape her lips, though it's a hopeful one. She only takes a moment to stuff her signet ring (worn round a chain) down beneath her chest bindings to hide it.

She doesn't recognize the area but since she *has* to still be in the duke's holdings, the hamlet will hold loyalty to her late-father. Probably none of them know about what happened but this is as good a place as any to sound the alarm...

Though she realizes with an even greater weight that due to her stubbornness she's lost far, far too much time. It may even be well known at this point.

But she still has to get in touch with what's left of her militia. She needs water and possibly food and worse, rest. But her credibility is at a low point, she barely reasons. She'll try to find a headman and see about getting help to find Grenn. From there... well he head's too swimming for her to reason out anything else.

[roll0] [roll1] spot and listens on the hamlet as she drags herself down that aways...

[Zweanslord]

Kanllu drags herself to the hamlet, though what is an hour seems like an eternity. Feeling her strength seep away more and more, she still manages to hear the first person, or rather the animals she herds, before she notices her. She walks along the path to the hamlet and past one of the houses when a local woman notices her. The woman is guiding some geese around and is rather fat and in her fourties or fifties. Letting gasp of worry and surprise, she rushes over to Kanllu, faster than one would expect with such mass.

The geese cackle right behind the woman as she approaches Kanllu. "My! Hel'o over there! Say, you look in pretty bad shape! You should not drag yourself like that! What happened?" The woman looks worried and hurries over to Kanllu, quickly grabbing an arm and draping it over her own shoulder. Caring about this stranger while the geese curiously walk around the couple, Kanllu notices that the rest of the hamlet is composed out of a few houses further ahead.

The hamlet is merely a collection of farmer's houses. Kanllu can see some fields with different crops and some grass fields with sheep and cows. But other people she can not see at the moment. "You be needin' some rest, deary! Let me take care of you, sweety." The woman tells, trying to cheer Kanllu up.

[tonberryking]

"No... I..." Kanllu stammers, nearly dragged along as her boots brush against geese and she nearly topples into the mess of them. Gods but she's tired...

"There's been trouble at Duke Soress' compound.." she manages, trying to stand on her own two feet without aide. "I need to get to Torien and along the way notify Ranger Grenn about it... time's..." she nearly passes out. Dammit. She needs two things at once but can't have them both: rest and movement.

"Time's a factor. It's very important... I'm... I'm from the Duke's Household... Got lost in the woods...

[Zweanslord]

The woman looks disturbed at the news. "You be sure of that, missy? You seem rather.. well, you look bad! And who is this Grenn you talk of? Anywya, that does not matter, come along now, deary!" The woman is not of the intention to let Kanllu off on her own, instead half supporting her, half dragging her along to the nearby house. It is clearly a farmer's house, looking rather average. Her own wear is relatively average as well. A simple brown dress with green patches and a light-brown skirt with some sturdy boots.

"The Duke's place is on the other end of that hill over yonder! You must be going so far then! Well, I'll go roundin' 'bout me husband and see what we can do fer you, missy! But first, le's get you restin'!" The woman says, concern obvious in her voice as she tries to move Kanllu to the house.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu doesn't fight back when she's placed in the house, and sits down wherever the kindly woman sits her. However that's it; she just sits, thankful for the load off her poor feet, but she fights off any attempt to put her into bed where sleep would surely take her..."I...took a fall and got lost when I was in the woods near the Duke's. I'm very off course and if your husband's the headman around here, all the more lucky for me, but I need to see someone in charge... she sputters, batting her own cheeks to stave off sleep.

"Throw me in a wagon if you have to but I have to get back in the right direction as soon as I can..."

[Zweanslord]

"Now don' be gettin' silly, missy. No taking you off on anything! We will get you in bed now. We'll go check or something, just let us handle it for now and rest and gather your energies, missy." The woman says confident, not about to let Kanllu get away with that. She tries to push Kanllu down on the bed, to make sure she goes rest. She seems rather stubborn about the thought. The room Kanllu finds herself in is rather plain and simple, with a few small wooden carvings on a nearby chest of drawers.

Strength check to push you onto the bed. You have to match or beat the check to not get pushed into the bed. If you beat it, you can push the woman away. Remember your exhaustion penalties, though.

[roll0]

[tonberryking]

I deleted the first attempt at this post because I forgot to close off the brackets of the roll command and it came up a bum-roll. Just being honest.

"You don't understand, it's too important for me to just sleep while there's danger about!!"

[roll0]

Kanllu however, doesn't win this fight. She's weaker than a child by the moment and she's pushed onto the bed, engulfed by it and her cries go weaker, turning to mumbling as she finally falls into a deep sleep.

Also, this is gonna sound bad but please don't let her sleep in her armor and become MORE exhausted when she wakes up.

[Zweanslord]

Before Kanllu falls asleep she barely notices that the woman is taking off her armour before tucking her to bed. Then she falls in a deep slumber..

Eventually, she wakes up again, her mind a bit hazy. Nobody is in the room with her and the light of dusk shines through the window, casting the shadow of a tree on the wall. Kanllu has slept through the day and finds herself in a relatively plain room. A small wooden carving of a wolf, made of quite a good quality, gazes down upon her with a toothy smile.

Kanllu can hear some noise further in the house, but can at the moment not place it yet as she wakes up.

[tonberryking]

First Kanllu searches to see if her signet ring is in its hiding place, before she rolls out of bed. All the while she mentally screams herself awake over the telltale signs of how long she's slept. She feels worthless now, even moreso than if her brothers were on the throne, but dammit if she's not giving up. Not bothering, or perhaps forgetting to look for her gear (In this case her armor and bow) she wanders towards the noise in the house, expecting the housewife and her husband to be nearby.

"Who's there? I need to leave with even greater haste now! The Soress estate has been dealt a terrible blow and I need to get to Torien before another night passes!"

[Zweanslord]

Still finding her signet ring where she left it, Kanllu eventually gets up and moves through the house. "Oy there! Already getting out of bed? Don' think that be wise." Said a burly man, with ragged hair and beard, both brown. His outfit is that of an obvious farmer and he grins a bit at Kanllu.

"No need to worry, miss. Already sent out my son to see if anything happened. Will go to Thorweed first, to see if they know. And then off to Torien if not. So no worries there. For ye, it be important that ye rest. And here I be finding ye out of bed already! Tss, tss!"

[tonberryking]

Kanllu has had enough.

It's not that she's spoiled, far from it. She's been told no or pushed to the side plenty of times in her youth, to know you can't always get what you want. But when she were to make a statement, an order, or otherwise observe something important, people of lower station would hop to. Or at least tell her why her father or mother or hell, even her brothers prevented her whim to be carried out.

Here though, she's tired and expects results.

Don't tell me what's wise, and what's not! If I say I need to get to Torien as soon as possible-- she fishes out the signet ring--modesty be damned-- and holds it up for view "Then I need to get to Torien as soon as possible!

She catches herself, however, before getting too worked up. And she also realizes how she's about to mistreat her hosts, so she tries to keep her anger in check.

"This matter ...I'm sorry; you've done nothing but help me and I will repay your kindness when I can but there is an urgency here; lives have already been taken and more may be lost if I do not get to Torien or to someone directly in the duke's employ. I'm a member of his household and I need to ensure that the duchy's best interests are kept safe..."

Diplomacy time~ ....I hope: [roll0]

[Zweanslord]

"Wow, wow, how, how. Hold on there missy, I mean, miss. If you really, really want to get to Torien that badly, I ain't goin' ta be in the way to stop ye, really. But I am going to say that it is not wise. Ye understand?" The man looks sympathetic to her plight, but only means well.

"Now, listen, if you are going to go now, I can give you a lantern or such, and some food for the way, but not much more. It is quite late in the day already and you will be travelling during the evening, possibly the night. I can offer you a dinner and another night of sleep, if you desire. But if you want to go that badly, then by all means, take off. Whatever be happening there in Torien that is that important be drivin' ye, I don't mind nor care, just trying to look out for a fellow human." He holds his hands up a bit and looks slightly confused. What Kanllu said about the duke and whatever did not seem to mean much to him and notable was that he did not find the signet ring to be very meaningful. Live on the farm in a hamlet has put this farmer quite far away from the high society such as the duke.

[tonberryking]

"It isn't what happened at Torien, it's what happened to the Duke at his keep..." Kanllu starts to explain, feeling weariness but also a bit of shame for bothering people who've given her more care and comfort than she'd expect.

Its urgency has left me...ill-tempered and I apologize." she starts, and actually bothers to go outside for a look to see just how late it is...

"Wake me as early as possible, even before sunrise... I won't do anyone any good if I make it to Torien and collapse (again.) So I will heed your wisdom for the moment, though please understand that beyond that I cannot stay any longer, no matter how much rest I may need.

[Zweanslord]

"T'is alright, miss. You will be woken up at that time, but are ye sure ye do not want any dinner before heading back to bed? We have some pota's and veggies if ye want." He suggested, walking back a bit to another room as Kanllu looks outside. The sun is setting and the night is starting to take over part of the sky in the east. From there, she can see a full moon rising in the dusk.

Make a Wisdom save when you go to sleep.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu feels... somewhat woozy and she has to clench her teeth to keep herself from making a face. For a brief moment she was overcome with a carnivorous disdain for vegetables...

"That's alright... i need more rest than food.." she says, waving the offer away before trying to get some rest on the bed...

[roll0]

[Zweanslord]

Sleep overtook Kanllu. Her sleep is completely devoid of dreams, but when Kanllu wakes, she does feel much better rested. She also finds that she is no longer lying on a man-made bed. She is resting on a patch of moss in a very shallow cavern and outside she sees many trees again. In her mouth she feels a strange flavour in the back of her throat, but at least she does not feel hungry at all.

What she does notice is that her equipment is nowhere to be seen. In fact, she is in possession of not a single item. She does not feel very cold and the moss is strangely comfortable, but fact remains that she is not wearing a shred of cloth on herself now. Not that anybody is around to see her at the moment.

The forest is much more lit than last time, as sunlight seems to get through the treetops from above. While the foliage still makes sure that it is relatively gloomy compared to the open field, at least everything is quite visible. She also notices something else. The forest seems to be filled with much more smells, as if it had just rained and you can smell the forest quite well now. But at least, to what she sees, it has not rained recently.

She does feel reinvigorated, well rested and not hungry. While she knows she is lost, she may yet find a way out of here. Though this will be a bit harder due to the lack of equipment..

[tonberryking]

Kanllu stirs eventually, but at first she doesn't really seem to be coherent about *anything*, rising up in a half stupor from feeling full, well rested and no longer smarting from when she fell last night or the bite--

--And then she remembers everything up until she went to bed, though her subsequent shout of surprise comes from her nude condition and having no clue where she is now.

'WHERE am I??' she thinks, scrambling up and looking around for attackers, her captors, or whoever else may yet be involved. Hands balled into fists, she crouches and waits for an assailant, twisting in stance in case they come from all sides.

This lasts for about half a minute or so until her signet ring swings into her peripheral. Blinking at it, realizing she's not yet lost everything Kanllu holds it up and wonders just what in hell has happened, or why she's in a bloody cave. Naked.

A quick examination shows she doesn't suffer a scratch anywhere, including the bite wound. Kanllu's mind races. It wasn't a terrible bite but it was inflicted two days ago if she hasn't slept for longer and there's no trace of a scar. Animal bites do not work that way--

--So what had bitten her?

Wrapping an arm across her chest out of modesty, Kanllu ponders this, and what in blue blazes she must do NOW, not to mention where she is.

The latter can be remedied as she heads for the cave entrance and trying to ignore her lack of clothes she looks about, while she tries to put together what could have happened...

[roll0][roll1] Spot and listens, followed by Knowledge Geography: [roll2]. Meanwhile, I'm going to try to use Kn. Dungeoneering to see if I can entertain the idea that her current state has something to do with her bite that is now gone: [roll3] Also, I should probably procure some water and maybe some covering: [roll4]

[Zweanslord]

While the forest in its sights is quite overwhelming to detect anything specific out of it, when Kanllu listens she does hear that some wildlife must be in the vicinity, disturbing some branches and leaves.

Whatever caused her to get here must be quite something special. Perhaps it was the farmers with some insidious goal? Perhaps a kidnapper? Perhaps some divine purpose, or perhaps some kind of fey creature from the woods? Kanllu recalls stories of some tricky fey living here, teaming up with what she remembers to be duargar, some kind of blue-ish dwarf.

As she walks through the forest, it does not take her long to determine which way to go to find a small stream and find some water. As for covering, that depends on what Kanllu finds acceptable. She figures she could strip off some moss from the ground to cover herself up, but that might cause more problems than it solves, considering the ground sticking to the moss.
Leaves would need some kind of sowing and knitting to go together, which is quite difficult to do here. What is possible is to take one of those branches, like on that bush over there, which separates in two branches, sling it over your shoulder and let the leaved branches cover part of yourself up. Though no solution really seems comfortable.

[tonberryking]

Going in the buff it is then, Kanllu decides; though she's certainly not too happy, it's not the first time she's been barefoot out in the wild either.

Looking at herself in the stream's reflection confirms she has nary a scratch aside from anything she picked up this morning. Her perfect health still perturbs her; she feels full and well rested which doesn't seem like the symptoms of being drugged or enchanted to sleep. After getting some water to drink and moving down stream, Kanllu again tries to figure out where she is exactly, hoping for a ridge or something with 'higher ground' in mind, all the while racking her brain for clues to what's happened to her.

It wouldn't hurt to find food, either.

[roll0][roll1] Spot/Listen

[roll2] Another Kn. Dungeoneering to figure out this mess based on how she's so healed, what she could have been fed, and why if she was kidnapped would they leave her her ring.

Finally: [roll3] Kn. Geo and survival: [roll4]

[Zweanslord]

Kanllu establishes that she is in the Sante woods, the same forest she had moved in before. Finding that her surroundings are sloped, she concludes she is on the hill where the Sante woods lie and getting to higher ground is easy enough, just go up.

Putting more effort to her listening, she notices that the higher she goes, the closer she comes to that wildlife she heard before. It has four feet, or hooves, or paws, or whatever and is right behind that gathering of bushes, behind that tree to the left and over that trunk further away. From the sounds of rustling, it does not seem alerted to your presence.

So far, she also feels confident the way she is going. Further ahead to the right she does see a small ridge, but considering there are still quite some trees here, that does not truly provide a means to see more. Though where one ridge is, perhaps more are?

[tonberryking]

Kanllu stops at this. She sniffs the air and possessed by the strangest feeling, she creeps after the creature causing the sounds. [roll0], hiding before she gets too close [roll1]... She's never been so keen at sensing life and as she sneaks she wonders if she's started to get a knack or showing off a natural druid talent...

(However, if this doesn't work out she resumes her trek towards the ridge)

[Zweanslord]

As Kanllu moves, she notices she is rustling through some leaves. From the bushes on ahead, a deer's head perks up, looking alert as it moves its head quickly around, trying to see where the danger is. Seeing none at all, it stands still for a while, uneasy by the sound, but eventually it seems to start nibbling on its lunch again, though it is more alert than before.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu looks at the deer with a twinge of hunger but this is definitely not the time to try to pick a fight with a fleet breakfast. She slinks back through the woods, towards the ridge she spied earlier to see just how far off she is. The events of yesterday, the trip to the town and the farmer and his wife seem like a half remembered dream.

Not familiar with the area but feeling she is at least closer to home than before, she moves uphill through the woods, wishing she had sandals at the very least.

The bite still bothers her though, thinking about it further and how it could have healed so fast [roll0] As well as just what in blue blazes was she fed? [roll1] Whatever the case, as she heads uphill, Kanllu figures this is going to be a very long day.

[Zweanslord]

Thinking about the bite, she does believe that the wound healing itself has to do with the bite. She recalls that sometimes such wounds by supernatural creatures bestow some of their powers on oneself. Perhaps a similar thing happened to her? One thing is for sure, it is not natural human healing.

Leaping further with thought, she thinks about what that taste is. She concludes that she tastes a strange taste, vaguely familiar to her, but can not put a point to it. The image of blood comes to her mind, but she can not be sure of that at all.

Meanwhile, Kanllu makes her way uphill. She finds the first small ridge, which is just a ridge a few meters tall. Not really that helpful, she moves on and soon enough finds clues to other ridges which she follows. After an hour or two, she is note sure how long, she stands a top a ridge that provides her view of the hill. She can see the sun and look at a magnificent view as she watches over the tree tops. She sees the forested hill running to its base and down there, she can see signs of civilization. A road and some hamlets and villages. She concludes that she is not on the side of the hill where Torien lies. Seeing the sun, she guesses that it is around noon now, perhaps a bit beyond that.

The way down is quite a way, as is the way to the top. Indeed, this will be a long day. Though at least due to her being so deep in the forest, nobody is seeing her like this, well, except for that bird that just flew by.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu takes a hike. Literally, she heads upwards along the easiest trail she can find, though if she finds any man made trails that could lead to the family ranger or some kind of settlement up or around the area, she will attempt to follow it.

The nature, or rather unnature of her healing worries her, but unless she were to meet a wandering wizard (who didn't fist give her something to wear) who could explain things, why dwell upon it?

Kanllu isn't, though at some point she will scavenge for more food and water, her belly finally starting to grumble.

[Zweanslord]

Kanllu travels through the forest, hiking through it, and seems to be on a roll as she manages to take the routes to find water and food. At the sight of a snapped off branch, she hikes along that way and finds bushes with berries, a small pond, and then not much later finds some edible nuts and mushrooms along the journey. In short, today she has no troubles finding food and hardly feels much thirst or hunger during the journey. If only she had something better than her fists when that bunny skirted past, then she might have eaten some meat as well.

She manages to get to the top of the hill after a few hours and finally is able to make use of another luckily found, high-up ridges to see the direction to Torien. She has difficulty spotting where her home would be, but thinks she did see it. Heading in that direction down, she is soon enough overwhelmed by the trees around her again, blocking her sight and the only correct way she knows she is following is the way down.

Hours pass and while she feels lost and unsure if the way down she is following will lead her where she wants, this uncertainty becomes replaced with some other feeling. A feeling of familiarity. She found a few trunks with one cut down and fallen down hollow tree, a tree which she knows is not too far away from the ranger's place. It would be perhaps a quarter of an hour away from here, probably less!

[tonberryking]

Kanllu breaks into a run, one arm pressed against her chest again so she can in fact do so with ease, and jogs the rest of the way to the ranger's house.

"Grenn!" she calls in the direction of said abode, "It's me, Kanllu-- are you at home? We've got big problems..." she trails off, huffing a little and as she gets closer to the household she slows into a trot and begins using trees as cover. Grenn has tact, but even he is going to want some explaining and Kanllu would rather not just run out of the woods au natural and up to him. She will stay behind whatever obstacle closest to the house can hide her body from the neck down.

[Zweanslord]

She sees the hut emerging between the trees and easily manages to find something she can hide behind. One of the advantages of a forest, anyway. However, even despite calling out, there is no response. In fact, as she listens, she does not hear anything from within the wooden hut. It is a simple, but functional hut with a small wooden overhang in front, allowing one to stand outside without getting wet when it is raining. A bit of moss on top of the hut, but Grenn always liked it like that. Natural camouflage, he called it. Its effectiveness could be debated, considering it was still a man-made hut.

[tonberryking]

Grenn may still be out; or he may be involved with helping the remnants of her father's court. Regardless, Kanllu makes for the door lightning quick, but hides behind it as she enters. Under the circumstances she has little choice but to borrow (and she intends to only borrow) anything she can use as cover and arms in the hut, assuming Grenn isn't around.

"Grenn? Are you here?" she cautions, looking inside.

[Zweanslord]

Grenn obviously is not there. The small rack he uses for his coat is empty, proving that he has gone out. There is a small table with chairs to the left standing underneath the window, just as she remembers. One of the chairs creaking still, as it always had. To the right is a small 'kitchen', basically a fireplace with another table to prepare things and some closets above and below it.

At the wall opposite to the door entrance is another door. It leads to his bedroom, where he keeps his clothing and the like. If Grenn were to go there, she could easily find some of his clothes in his closest. She also sees some dozen arrows lying on the floor near the table in the main room, and some unfinished ones as Grenn makes his own arrows. She would also be able to find a spare bow in his room. A shortbow she remembers having made use of when she was smaller. Beyond that, some of the kitchen knifes would be able to serve as a dagger. There could be a real dagger around here.. but Grenn always hides such sharp items, due to nosey little girls having tried to find them before.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu takes her sweet time, first pilfering the smallest clothes Grenn has before tearing strips from the shirt. She binds herself as well as the trousers about her waist and ties off the shift above her abdomen. Though it gives an inviting shot at her, she doesn't care; she cuts off some of what's tied off and wraps her feet with it.

Time passes as she goes through the house, laying what she finds on the table, a short sword, knife and all the arrows she can find on the floor. Eventually, she takes it slow and cautious, finishing her rounds on the cabin by taking the weapons to a very cinched belt and methodically loads arrows into a quiver and prepares for a run to the castle.

[Zweanslord]

And off she goes. This time, she does manage to find her way with the light still there and having a feel for the direction she is meant to go. Also, not as much pressure as last time. By the time she gets to the outskirts of the forest and manages to see her home again, she does realise that dusk is starting. In the distance, she can see the keep and currently, there does not seem to be anybody there. At least, not from this side; the deep forest side. Unable to see the front from here, everything does look at peace for now.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu nearly charges in, but looks carefully at the surroundings. No one seems to be around but, as she doesn't quite realize it's getting dark with the improvements on her eyes, she looks anyway. Spot: [roll0]If she spots a monster or some unknown troops, assume she's staying back in the woods some. if not...

Regardless, she tries to creep along into the keep proper, not calling out, not trying to make a sound. Instead she's scouring the place, and perhaps making it to the armory or her own room to get better equipped. She'll stay the night and head to Torien if she can, but first, it's time to explore...

[roll1] Move silently. She's not traipsing about the castle, she's taking it slow.

[Zweanslord]

Nothing particular stands out, but when she gets closer she notices that the grass is a bit greener to the front of the keep, probably by some further off light source. However, she is certain that no light shines near the back. This in turn allows her to climb in easily and open a window. She can easily make her way to the armoury or her own room, however..

She sees the blood. Bodies have been dragged to the corridor she finds herself at, finding the clues of blood present. One end will lead to where they fought and the other end of the trail will lead to the front of the building.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu takes the path to where the fight was held. She has to know if her family is truly gone, even though she holds no hope of being wrong. She walks with bow and arrow in hand, ready to pull back.

[roll0]Move silently

She'll see what lies at the end of the blood trail and then head for the armory, before finally getting better clothes. That she's seen no one, nothing at all, concerns her, thinking she would at least find looters or soldiers from Torien or someone. She amends to stay here tonight or back at Grenn's hut if things get dicey here before leaving for the town at first light.

[Zweanslord]

Kanllu moves through the corridors, following the trail of blood. The scenery still is apparent, with knocked over furniture and blood and a bit of entrails still visible, but the gross part of the scenery is gone: the bodies of the dead are no longer here.

Kanllu manages to find her way to the armoury, but once there she notes a burning candle in the corridor, lighting the way. She can make her way to her room and get some clothes in the dark, but if she wants to proceed to the armoury, she will have to go through some light at least. Who knows if somebody is around?

[tonberryking]

Kanllu knows the armory is tantamount. She can't recall if she left anything of weaponry in her room, knowing the servants, and she wants to be secure in the knowledge of it being safe.

...But how is the candle still lit after so long? Something's up, as she takes caution: [roll0] listen

And then tries to make a sneaky break for it, but will attempt to hide if things go sour: [roll1] Move silently [roll2] hide

[Zweanslord]

She does not hear anything and luck have it, if anybody is around, he, she or it is not spotting her, or at least she thinks so, because she does not hear or see anybody. Not even hearing her own footsteps, she is confident that nobody heard her and finally manages to enter the armoury. She notes that the armoury chests and closets have additional locks on them, securing them tight.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu makes an aggravated growl...but is instantly on her guard. These locks weren't here before and even if they were, the scramble for weapons in leaiu of a giant monster attack would have them scattered over the floor.

The castle isn't safe; she will move back to her room, grab outfits and her satchel, anything else she can find, and then retreat to Grenn's for the night. So she stealthily makes for her next destination. [roll0][roll1] MS and hide

[Zweanslord]

Kanllu easily makes it out without being detected - or so she thinks. Suffice to say is that nobody is immediately jumping out the keep after her when she leaves. She moves through the forest again and as the sky turns darker, she makes her way to Grenn's place, which is the same as she has left it. However, this time around, she has additional items she grabbed from her room.

[tonberryking]

Laying out the gear, and still assuming it's much earlier than it is, Kanllu leaves her assorted bundle on the table, and slinks out of the cabin and into the woods to get something to eat.

She doesn't hunt rabbit or anything, cautious of lighting a fire and alerting whoever's running the castle, and intends to set in the night eating mushrooms and nuts from a bowl, taking sips from a canteen she took from her room. In the dark she watches the outside from a window, just in case Grenn were to return or she has unexpected company. Her short sword lies across her lap, the other weapons bundled with her gear, as she waits... and watches.

[roll0]

[Zweanslord]

When she went to sleep, she does not recall, but she does notice that she in a familiar situation. Once again finding herself with no equipment and only carrying her signet ring on a necklace, she sees the trees around her. By the dim light falling through the leaves, she guesses it is morning now. Finding herself on a bit of grass and leaves, the place she was lying on was not too uncomfortable, but not exactly comfortable either. This time, while she does feel healthy, she feels some tinges of hunger again and realises that once again, she is lost in the woods, as the trees do not look particularly familiar.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu awakens with a good fashion scream of aggravation. What keeps HAPPENING??? Stumbling out of the brush, she doesn't even bother trying to cover herself as she moves around, trying to get her bearings, wondering what could have brought her here. This includes a look down on the forest floor, looking for tracks or anything of the sort.

Nude sleepwalking isn't a factor. Something is playing a magical prank on her or she's playing the victim of a sick mind game, possibly with whoever unleashed that monster... Being carted around until she breaks.

Well, she's not going to take THAT.

I take ten on a search check in the surrounding area before trying to get my bearings otherwise.

Spot/listen: [roll0] [roll1]
Survival: [roll2]

[Zweanslord]

Kanllu definitely notices that some kind of creature went stamping around here. But what? No idea. Other than that, nothing out of the ordinary seems to be around here. She just hears the wind rustle through the leaves and squirrels hopping through the trees. Well, maybe not so much the latter, but nothing really stands out otherwise.

After getting her bearings, and not getting much wiser, she does manage to find the way back to Grenn's hut after an hour or so. The trees did become more familiar a stroll off. Arriving there, she finds that the window she was looking out of is quite damaged, as if something went through. Perhaps somebody assailed her the last night.. if only she had not fallen asleep there. Oddly enough, she does find all her clothes and equipment in the hut, down the window. What kind of sick bastard could have gotten through the window, undressed her and taken her along? Or was it perhaps something else..?

[tonberryking]

Kanllu darts inside and quickly throws clothes on, strapping blade and bow to her body as well. Taking no chances, she gets everything ready to go and to bolt in a moment's notice, looking inside to see if anything else was disturbed. Her clothes and weapons were fine, the house wasn't ransacked (aside from her doings) and the window...

...Wait a minute.

Kanllu looks stupefied at the window for a long moment. The debris of the window's destruction, the frame, the wood, et. all. The debris is on the OUTSIDE of the house, not in. Whatever creature was assailing her it came crashing through from the inside of the house.

Was it hiding in here? IS it hiding in here? The hole was too big for it to be comfortable inside, and a quick scan of the house leaves her assured that nothing else is here, at least nothing of applicable size.

Kanllu searches around the house for a long while and finds something else. Her clothes. Grenn's clothes that she appropriated, to be precise. They're sort of all over.

The remains of her clothes are all over the floor in shreds, something broke OUT of the house and she found herself outside at daybreak in the buff. She was bitten by a monster and her wounds from that ordeal healed in less than two days.

...

...Did she do all of this?

[tonberryking]

Kanllu leaves the house. She doesn't go to Torien, not until she has more proof of the situation. Instead she spends the day filling her canteen, getting food and finding a hiding place in the woods. A place big enough as the cave and the clearing was last time, something apparently a bigger her would find comfortable. She finds a suitable cave.

Survival: [roll0] Hide: [roll1]

And then she waits for the moon to come up. It's a very boring day, but somehow time goes by faster until the end, when the final few hours before dusk drag on, as if to purposely keep her from knowing.

She tells herself if what she thinks is true, then as soon as she sees the moon she will transform. She's wearing one of Grenn's other tunics and a rope belt (so she doesn't get cold, and in the chance she's wrong) and tells herself, regardless, she must go immediately to Torien on the morrow.

[roll2] [roll3]

[Zweanslord]

The moon shines and she feels the urge. The feral lying inside of her. The curse of lycanthropy striking her. She changes, her body is no longer that of her own. Her mind is clouded. Hunger! HUNGER!

HUNGER! Must! Feed!

The prowl begins. The small front arms chitter about as she snaps her hungry teeth forward. Racing on two legs she moves quickly through the forest.

Hunger!

There! A deer! Racing, racing! Much, much faster than the prey. Rawr! Bite, claw, grab! Tear a piece of meat from it and start dinner. Mmmm. Dinner.

Yes, the blood running through the mouth with the delicious flavour of meat. Ah, it is so welcoming, so bloody and desired. Munch, munch. The carcass lies there as the trail continues.

Thirst!

Perk up, look around. Watch surroundings. More trees. Walk, walk. Sniff, sniff. Stream was nearby, so says memory. Move, chase, jump. Ah, stream! Drink, drink.

Prowl... the night beacons.. and you prowl through your territory. The familiar trees. Grenn's house. More trees. Those trees too close to the keep. More trees. Deeper forest. Was comfy place before.

Chase, chase. Run, run. Comfy place. Sleepy. Sleep sleep.

Something! Heard!

Jump up. Rawr, beast! No get near! Bite, claw! It gets near! Bite, bite, claw, claw. It no longer moves. Good. Move back in cave. Sleep sleep. Perhaps nibble a bit. Sleep sleep.

---

Then the dawn arrives. Kanllu finds herself naked, with just her necklace and ring. She recalls the night. And the proof is obvious. A wolf lies not too far from her. Dead, eaten on. Large bite marks, and claws having ripped through it. Her bite. Her claws. She recalls.. the curse of the moon.

[tonberryking]

It was her.

The monster that killed her family was a lycanthrope. And she's one now too, thanks to the bite it left her.

She sobs for a time, realizing she may very well have killed the old couple who first took her in, and goodness knows anyone else back at the village. Their kindness wasn't repaid. Wracked with guilt, crushing horrendous guilt that she caused death as easily as the monster who took her family, Kanllu cries, an act that she hasn't done since, well... since her dog died. She has never shed tears for other people until now.

Stop

The voice is her own, echoing in her mind as the dominant side of her persona, the regal commanding nature, pipes up. She has to get a hold of herself, she realizes as she hugs her body, and casually wipes blood from her mouth. What she may have done would be a damning action if she had been self conscious. But at the time she was an animal... Two things not worth hating were an animal, because they only behaved on instinct, and a corpse.

That doesn't make the guilt or the horror go away but it recedes, pushed down; she is in control of herself again. Looking at the wolf corpse, Kanllu thinks to try out her new powers and decides against it. She can feel the raptor deeper down in her mind, but isn't fully assured if she changed just to see what would happen that she could assuredly change back. Not even partly was worth the risk, as a raptor-woman. It would have to come later.

Kanllu buries the wolf, cleans herself off and dresses. Garbed and equipped, with knowledge and new ability, she leaves the hills and moves down to the road, down towards Torien and whatever awaits her. The heads of the town know her, as do the cadre of her father's troops. She has to get to them without another delay...

[Zweanslord]

Waling over the road, she moves in the direction of Torien over the Lost Coast Road. However, before she arrives in Torien, she sees that there are three people on the road ahead. Getting closer, their uniforms betray they are guards. They have not spotted Kanllu as of yet, as the trees around the road towards Torien have not yet made them aware of her yet. Two of them seem to be talking amidst each other, while the third glances towards them at the moment.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu keeps walking towards them. For all appearances she's just a huntswoman, casually giving the guards a wide berth on the road as she makes her way into town.

This doesn't mean, however, that she's inattentive: paying to mind what they look like and what they're saying [roll0] [roll1] Spot/listen

[Zweanslord]

These seem like normal city guard as seen by their garb. Kanllu has seen those uniforms before, simple leather armour, or studded, a bit difficult to determine since most of it is behind a tabbard, signifying that these are pretty low ranking guard.

When she tries to pass, she is halted by the guards. One steps in front of her and raises his hand, hand open and forward. "Halt, please. May I know your business in Toren, milady?" He seems rather polite, which gets him some grins from his colleagues.

Being stopped on the road here is odd, this is not standard procedure at all. Most times, people are just let through at the edge of the city (unless suspicious, but you are sure you are not), but this is not yet even the edge yet, but the path leading there.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu says as much. "It's against the Duke's law to get something to eat in town?" she states rather blandly, as if this were the simplest task, but she tries to come off as ignorant. Although she wishes she had the silver tongue of her half brothers to waltz in without effort.

"...There, isn't a problem, is there? Aside from lunch I just needed to see some people in town and also..." she points to her bow and lean amount of ammunition. "I need arrowheads if this bow's going to be of any use in a hunt."

[Zweanslord]

One of the other two guards grins with her remark and whispers something to the other guard. They are firmly ignored by the guard in front of you, who politely answers. "No, Milady. But there is indeed a problem in Toren. You will be let through, but could you please state your name and where you have been the recent days?" He looks back at the two other guards, after which one, after a short grin, quickly gets out some pencil and paper jotting something down.

[tonberryking]

"My name's Kanna," Kanllu starts, looking calm and collected, "I was just close to the hills hunting the past few days and had the worst luck in keeping my arrowheads and shafts safe. My master would have thrown me off a cliff if he were around to witness it all."

Kanllu doesn't hide all of her irritation to these guards, trying to make it seem that she's more put off by the goon squad's inquisition than the thought of there being a particular problem lurking about. It may not seem all that insubordinate, but the scout turned dino feels these guards aren't all that legit...

[roll0][roll1] Bluff and sense motive respectively

[Zweanslord]

Well, even if they are not legit, they sure act like they are. In body language nor verbal communication there are any hints of what they say being untrue. Could this be because the dino sense is off or because it is such a clever ruse? In any case, they do seem to have a better dino sense developed, as the guard raises his eyebrow and states quite blandly: "I believe you are not telling us the full truth, Milady. You do not have anything to hide, do you?"

The two other guards mumble something to each other, causing them to grin, but they do seem a bit more serieus afterwards. While they seem fond of making jokes on the guard in front of Kanllu, they do take him seriously enough about such matters.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu tries to maintain a pokerface, however well that may look. Until an idea strikes her and she huffs, honestly embarrassed to admit (even in a partial truth) the following:

"The full truth? What, do you want to know that I ripped the seat of my other pants off completely and I heard all sorts of weird animal sounds??? They aren't exactly related but I'm not about to tell you everything that went wrong due to some clumsy mistakes that my old master would use me for target practice over!" she gets right in the guard's face, blaming him (clearly) for this. "I may have also hide under some bushes when I heard those noises which.. well, dammit! let me through! I'm not going to be your entertainment!!!"

[roll0]

[Zweanslord]

Well, she has that wrong, in a sense. It may not be to that specific guard's entertainment, but the two other guards are laughing loudly. While the guard in front of Kanllu gives them an angry stare and causes them to cease laughing, they only grin towards each other, he looks apologetically towards Kanllu. "My apologies, Milady Kanna." He bows for her. "Please continue your travels and may the Lady's Luck shine upon you while in Toren. Also, my apologies for my companions." he says, quickly adding another stare at the other guards in the distance, who go like: "Oooh, I'm so scared now, haha!"

[tonberryking]

Still red in the face Kanllu wordlessly brushes past the lead guard, shakes her fist at the other two guards impotently before making the show of stomping off into town, inwardly relieved that they bought it all. But she doesn't break her angry gait until she's well out of sight and into town, glancing about at Toren activity, to see if anything looks too amiss.

[roll0] Spot.

[Zweanslord]

And thus, Kanllu found herself at Toren. Walking over the Lost Coast Road as she emerges from the woods, she can opt to take the path left, over the Schooner Gulch Road, or move on to the city proper and cross the bridge spanning the Turandarok River. The harbour is visible to the left and houses arise before her. As she intends to go into town, this is hardly a choice and after passing another couple of guards on the bridge, she marches along the Market street until she finds herself at the Toren Marketplace, which is currently empty save for the odd group of children who enjoy using the wide-open area to play whistleball.

Most of the buildings Kanllu knows and sees are made of wood, with stone foundations and wood shingle roofs. The majority are single-story structures with a number of exceptions. She finds herself in downtown, the area that lies lower than uptown, which resides on a level bluff overlooking downtown. Downtown is built on a gentle slope, running from about twenty meter above sea level to the far end of Toren from where Kanllu is to only a few meters above the waterline where she just crossed the water with the bridge.

Map: http://img651.imageshack.us/i/sandpoint.jpg/

Lost Coast Road is to the lower right of the map. Market place is spot 35.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu takes a moment to just stand where she is, looking over the place. Smelling the sea air, hearing the sounds... it's all to steel herself for what's coming. She has to get to the council hall and rally not only her late father's aides and henchmen, but the sizable militia as well.

She didn't recognize the embarrassing trio (but she is going to remember them once she's the duchess) and with foresight that's helped keep her alive, she decides to figure out what the heck's going on. Starting with the children and moving onto some of the vendors and civilian passerbyes, she tries to find out, smoothly, why the patrols and soldiers have been appearing, what trouble they're causing, and even if the councilmen are in fact at the council.

[roll0] (gather information)

[Zweanslord]

The councilmen are ofcourse the council, proclaims one male human passer-by, misunderstanding the question. After Kanllu clearing that up, the man, a carpenter, seems to think for a bit and eventually states that he thinks so, not knowing a reason why that not be the case.

A vendor manages to tell that the patrols and soldiers have been because of the grave murder on the duke's family, though he does not know about any details. Instead, he seems much more intent on selling Kanllu some leather items.

Some of the children skip around Kanllu and giggle a bit before providing some answer. They tell that the weapon carrying people are around more now, and that some of their mommies and daddies talk more about 'the gofferunmant' and 'kaunsil' and ask you what that is.

[tonberryking]

Answering that the government is to help make laws and rules (no doubt some of the kids will look sour at that) Kanllu briskly heads towards the council building, wondering about showing her signet ring to get inside. It's not that she was unknown to them--it was part of their job to know about the family succession (and who wasn't getting it)-- but Kanllu has met barely 7 or 8 of her late-father's retinue, and barely seen half of them in the past year.

Approaching the building with caution, Kanllu comes towards it from the opposite side of the street, taking a gander at who's around and if anyone is leaving the building who could help her.

[roll0] Spot check.

[Zweanslord]

The Town Hall (Nr #11 on the map) is the main gathering place of the Council, and can be found in the Main Street, across the Garrison (Nr #10 on the map). The town hall is a two-story building, where the jaority of the ground floor is a meeting hall large enough to seat of the town's adults. The upper floor contains offices and the odd storeroom, while the vault in the basement below has been functioning as the town bank for decades. Plans to build a proper bank have been present in past generations, but through inaction the plan has been forgotten.

Across the Town Hall is the Garrison, a stone fortress which also serves as the town's jail. The jail itself is located in an underground wing, while the above-ground portion houses the town's guard. Not surprisingly, there are several people walking out of the Garrison at this time, most commonly watchman.

A number of these watchman go to the Town Hall at one point, but there seem to not be that many people in general leaving or entering the place. There are currently two guards posted outside the doors, looking rather stoic at the moment.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu huffs, and just goes for the direct approach by heading right towards the Council hall. Knowing she'd be stopped if she just headed inside, the bastard heir stops herself in front of the guards, taking up a sense of command as she eyes them.

"I have urgent business in here; must speak with Councilman Gomma, now," she names one of the council members who know her on sight, and in particular the last one to see her and from her stance, she hopes that she comes off as serious. But just in case... "It's news concerning the Duke and his Family."

[Zweanslord]

When Kanllu speaks to one of the guards, he raises his eyebrow first, betraying that this has not happened to him before, or at the very least not today. "Madame, what news of the Duke and his family may that be, then? And why would it require the attendence of Councilmember Gomma?" He seems to ask this more so because it is his job to ask people questions before you know, letting them in the building you are guarding.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu figures at least Gomma's in the building. And that this lowly guard doesn't know a damn thing about bastards. "That's not for a guardsmen to worry about but for the councilmen. And Councilman Gomma will assuredly have an interest. If you won't let me in immediately, I understand but you must tell him Kanllu is waiting outside, right now, and everything else will be taken care of.

[Zweanslord]

The guard sighs, as he does not exactly seem interested in having a conversation with this headstrong and arrogant lady. "Hold on, I'll go in and check. Chester, keep an eye on the lady." The last he says to his mate, who lets out a gruff sound. Going in, he comes back after a while. His expression seems to have changed, as he looks at Kanllu. Seeing her in a new light, he holds the door open for her. "Councilmember Gomma wishes to see you now. Jerry will escort you there." Another guard, dressed in the usual tenue, who looks quite strong, but not big, nods to you inside.

When you enter, the guard resumes his position outside at the door and closes the door behind him again, while Jerry ushers you further. "Greetings Madame. If you will follow me please, I will escort you to Councilmember Gomma." Walking through the large meeting hall, large enough to let the town's adults sit on the benches facing the stage further ahead, the guard leads Kanllu towards one of the doors on the side. Walking through a short hall, he leads you up the stairs towards another room there. Holding the door open to you, he motions for you to enter before him.

The room is an office room, with a desk and several dressoirs on the side. A window or two let in the light, while Kanllu sees councilmember Gomma sitting on one of the seats on the opposite of the desk. He does not sit directly behind the desk itself, there is seated somebody else Kanllu recognises. It is Kendra Deverin, also a councilmember and the one responsible for daily business and the reception of people. Both Gomma and Kendra are humans and not of any age to call "young" any more. The two look at the door opening intestedly. Across the desk, on your side, is another chair. There are also two other chairs to the side of the room. When you decide to enter, the guard Jerry comes in as well and places himself next to the door.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu unloads her bow and quiver but takes the chair in front of her with her sword still on her belt, still easily drawn from the way she's reclined. There's little relaxed about her stance, or her eyes though, which bore down towards the two council members. She doesn't fish out her signet ring, however, wanting to keep that safe until someone she doesn't know demands proof of her lineage.

"Well. My father and half brothers are dead." she stats bluntly from across the table. "I imagine you've found that out already but what else do you know now?" aside from the fact I'm not dead and am rightfully in charge... she keeps to herself. "Have we any idea who sent that monstrous killer after my whole family? Has he been caught? What's been happening in the three days since?"

Kanllu knows full well they'll want to know where she's been, but she starts the questions off as if to establish superiority, and to get some knowledge first before she gives her own.

[Zweanslord]

Seeing Kanllu keep her sword still is obviously noticed by Kendra Deverin, who looks at Kanllu more intensely. Both Gomma and Kendra were looking at Kanllu and listening to her. Gomma, being closer to Kanllu, quickly replies, while Kendra studies her patiently. "Ah, Kanllu, please calm down. We know this has been a trying time for all of us, especially for you, but we are doing our best to find out what we can. We have been busy with the investigation over the last three days, and trying to track the monster down with the best people we have."

However, Gomma's reply is halted as Kendra raises her hand. "And who is to say that said monster is not right in front of us now, disguised incidentally as the one member of the family who is least known?" Gomma looks shocked at that implication and looks at Kanllu to hear her response.

[tonberryking]

Oh that's right. Kanllu and Kendra never really got along much, even when concerning the (illegitimate) daughter of your boss. Still, she realizes if she were to answer poorly, it'd play right into the old hag's hands...However Kanllu has no intention of being tactful with this shrew after the way she's worded her suspicions.

Her eyes narrow, and in response she leans forward with a withering look the old woman's way, trying to cow her for the moment. "Who's to say you're not the self-same monster that tore apart Fahn, Anllu, my step-mother and myfather??? Or the guard behind me or anyone else in Torien for that matter; maybe they're the monster! Why don't you keep quiet; I've seen everyone I've grown up with either be torn apart or throw themselves at the lizard-monster as I was ushered into the woods, and I will not tolerate this... this INSOLENCE."
Intimidation time! [roll0]

Regardless of how well she told Kendra off, Kanllu purposely sinks into her seat some. If she can figure out who to trust, she may let on she was bitten, but her powers now have to stay hidden, no doubt. it leaves her looking tired, but for reasons that may be easy to misinterpret.

"Argh. Let's start over, shall we? I've been doubling back and forth through the woods for the past several days ever since my flight from the castle. I want an appraisal of what's happened since the night my family died..."

[Zweanslord]

Kanllu's reaction threw off Kendra immediately. Kanllu can hear the chair scrape along the floor as Kendra backs off in her chair and actually moves backward with her chair. Looking at her with a mixed expression, she looks as though Kanllu is some fierce fire she has no intention to get burned on further. This gives Gomma the chance to answer her questions. "Please, calm down Kanllu, I know that you are upset with this situation, but that is no reason to lash out. We do not know who is the culprit behind that, but we are careful, something that we have to be, you know?"

Gomma sighs a moment, after which he explains. "We have found your family in their.. state..." He halts a moment and looks quite sick for a moment. "..ahum, well, our investigators have been able to find out that this is the deed of a monster, and well, they actually identified the kind responsible, but.. uhm, well, it is kind of odd. They suspect a dinosaur did this, which is, uhm, well.. strange to say the least. Not exactly normal.. animals.. for this region and how it could get in there?" Gomma looks a bit embarassed as he speaks about, what must Kanllu think of such a rediculous explanation that "a dinosaur did it"?

[tonberryking]

Kanllu shakes her head and gives Gomma a look of understanding. "No, it's not normal... But the reports are right, I assure you. I glimpsed the beast--no, the monster during its attack and its body was humanoid but it had the head, arms and tail of a raptor." And it bit me, but I can't trust you with that just yet, she thinks. It wasn't a lizardman--too big-- and I don't think it was part dragon, either."

Slowly play out your hand. "I don't think anyone would miss seeing it escape, and based on what I know I have to wonder if it was summoned here... or if it was a shapeshifter. But regardless, this was a planned attack. Someone deliberately sent it out to kill my entire family."

[Zweanslord]

Kendra might have said something, reacted or whatever, were it not for the fact that Kanllu's intimidating had been extremely effective. So Gomma still kept the word. "You were there? Are you.. are you alright? How did you escape? There were no survivors as the report tells..." He coughs a bit, but quickly continues. "Which is why we have no witnesses.." Sighing, he looks at Kanllu. "He could be summoned.. or a shapeshifter.. but the first is difficult to find out, and the latter.. would indeed complicate things."

[tonberryking]

"I only survived because I was the last target; the monster slew the rest of my family by the time our castle guard showed up-- this gets Kanllu a little choked up; royal or no, it's a burden on her soul that so many people willingly threw their lives away for her...They gave the monster more to worry about and I was bade to run. I don't mind admitting I felt like a coward, but I escaped into the woods as the guardsmen dealt with the beast. I don't know if they killed him or not, perhaps there's an extra body amongst the slain? In any case I've been in the woods for the past few days, doubling back, marking my trail until it seemed safe to come back to Torien. Alone.

She leaves that last statement hanging in the air to denote how difficult things've been, since running up in the open would have again made her a target.

[Zweanslord]

"We're... quite sure.. that it was not killed." Gomma adjusted his neck collar. "Anyway, it is good to see you well and safe here now. Please allow me to offer you protection and safe keeping, Kanllu. You are, after all, the only member still alive of the family.." He let those last words hang in the air, not wanting to point out the obvious, but he wondered if Kanllu was aware of that as well at this moment.

[tonberryking]

Something catches Kanllu's attention. Shifting into a more comfortable position, but still seeming serious, yet also seemingly passing up what was just said. That's right, I'm supposed to be in charge now, she thinks. But as for what she says:

"Explain," she gestures, "What proves that the killer wasn't slain in the castle? I tried to get back in but found that my father's rangers and EVERYONE had vanished. From there I found it prudent to be more covert before comign her, so inform me. why are you so sure the killer isn't dead, and where is everyone?

[Zweanslord]

"Ah, well.." The man now seemed a bit uncomfortable to speak and looked at his collegue Kendra. She gave a short nod, looking away from Kanllu. Gomma twitched a bit, but spoke up. "Some of the remains he left.. were quite.. ah.. gruesome. Half-eaten organs..." Gomma is obviously shivering now, and he shakes his head. "No, he most definitely lives. But where he is.." Gomma looks unknowing. "But what do you mean, rangers and everyone had vanished? Surely you do not expect us to station so many at a graveyard?" Gomma said, looking bewildered at Kanllu.

[tonberryking]

"What I mean is that none of my father's people--his warders, woodsmen, none of them-- were to be found when I returned. Not just in the castle--no one was there-- but his ranger, other people who live nearby were all missing. They too were among the slain?"

Kanllu cannot tell if her underlings (yes, she's starting to get used to the idea) are just squeamish about the grisly attack or if something's being kept from her. She didn't like the way they seemed to be withholding things from her, at least, given the circumstances. She watches them closely.

Trying to see if these guys are just honestly nervous, upset or if something really is being kept away from Kanllu: Sense motive-[roll0]

[Zweanslord]

While Kanllu can't really get a read on the honesty of Kendra's words due to, well, the lack there of at the moment. Gomma seems honest, though. "Well, the.. remains.. have been taken along for the ceremonies. There are very few who wish to be there, though there should be some stationed there now. Perhaps you have missed them?" He shrugs momentarily. "In any case, most are here now who at the time of the murder were not there. Such as some of his woodsman, for example. And you mean Grenn, yes? Ah, he is safe and sound, but not here at the moment. He has been send out to give the message to other outposts so that hopefully we may catch more traces of the murderer.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu ponders all this for what feels like an eternity. Reclined once again, she tries to come off as relaxed, in control of herself. Tradition and divine right would have cowed the officials without another word but her 'providence' is by default with the two legitimate heirs dead.

"How much does the populace know?" she diverts this thought by asking this one. "And have you sent any word to the higher ups?" By higher ups, she means the king, the old half elvin her father swore fealty to, or at least whatever regents or patricians would need to know. Out of the four duchies, never has an entire family of royals ever been so close to being extinct. Sure, the 'directional duchies' have bickered and fought each other before but aside from a few duels and the rare instance where a duke lead their armies, wholesale slaughter of some royals is unheard of... Kanllu wonders just how the King's court would take the news.

But that takes time... In the meantime, the bastard-turned-heir realizes she may need some level of support. Preferably support with a show of arms.

"If you haven't sent word to the king's court, we need to let them know what's transpired, that I'm still alive, and we need to do so fast..." especially if she wants the duchess seat.

"I need to speak with Grenn and any remaining commanders or officers of my late father's army, like Redfa Mon and 'Honest' Frel; those two officers weren't stationed in the castle in the past week. I need capable men like them we can trust, and this must be done posthaste."

OOC: Basically, everything Kanllu said. Aside from some reminders of the political situation, she's trying to assert her rulership. She figures if the council listens to her, it's a step towards her being officially 'crowned' and she needs that to happen fast. ICly, anyway. :smallwink:

[Zweanslord]

Gomma quickly nodded as Kanllu asked if word had been sent to the king. Ofcourse it had, this was too important news to let just hang here. "The populace knows the family was killed, that was something that would not be able to be hidden. What the populace does not know is any information about the killer, except that he was naturally branded an assassin.

Word has been sent to the King. We have not received word yet, though. Naturally, no word has been sent out that you are still with us, Milady. We just learned of that fact! We can naturally arrange for Lord Frel to come, Milady, as soon as possible even. Redfa Mon and his company will be back tomorrow, upon which you can speak with him then, Milady."

At this point, Kendra, who had been keeping silent, stood up. "Ah, milady, let me take care of that. I will summon Lord Frel and make sure the message is sent out. Please continue your talk with council member Gomma in the mean time." It was obvious enough that Kendra liked to get away from Kanllu. The intimidating effect on her had really shook her up and she saw an opportunity to get out of the presence of this fierce woman.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu eyes Kendra as she leaves with a sharp look. Sense motive! Kendra is a liability: [roll0]

"Send one of the soldiers to fetch Frel," she tries ordering, to see if it sticks. "I would prefer the two of you bear with me a little longer. I would welcome any advice from two trusted advisers, especially in our duchy's time of need. Please, do let me know what wisdom I can benefit from concerning this... this ordeal."

Diplomacy to butter Kendra up some. [roll1] She won't know until the Sense motive check clears if Kendra's on the level, but she's trying to play it safe by keeping the In council council members close by. In case, you know, someone needs to go out back and quickly alert an assassin to their target's whereabouts, or some other usurper tactic. Kanllu's just stalling for time at this point until she gets in some more 'help'

[Zweanslord]

It becomes obvious enough to Kanllu that Kendra does not like this situation at all. She is displeased, especially because of how she got so easily intimidated by one like you. You see fear in her eyes as she gazes at you. Whether she is a liability or not depends on which aspects. She is certainly a liability in providing earnest advice, though not on providing information, as she dare not try and fiddle with that, scared you may find out. Whether she is a liability in the grand scheme of things is difficult to tell at a glance. She does not seem to be getting out of here to warn an assassin, though, but rather does not wish to stay here.

What is obvious is that Kanllu's kinder words have no effect. "No, I can not stay. Not only do I have other duties to attend, but the message must be sent and that is not a task which a mere soldier should do. You yourself said that such a message must be done fast, Milady." While saying she has other duties to attend is a half-lie/half-truth, she is right that sending the message of Kanllu's survival is not something you can just pass off to the soldier in front of the door. "Though if you wish that I stay, I can, though it will mean the message will have to wait." It was obvious that she said this with gritted teeth, only showing a certain level of politeness because of her current state of mind about Kanllu.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu decides for the best:

"No, by all means, if it's in your capable hands, please send for Frel and have him join me as quickly as possible. I will have none of my time wasted." she finishes with a comment that can be taken a number of ways itself, but mostly she's trying to affirm Kendra's fears, and to possibly give the woman a chance to get out of her bad graces. She flicks a look at Kendra before turning back to Gomma.

"As we wait, councilman, can you keep me abreast of anything my father had been working on before now? Aside from seeing that his matters do not go unattended, I must also try to sift through any knowledge for clues as to who sent this assassin. You know more of his doings at the King's court; did he have any enemies? Any...political problems away from home?"

She's just trying to look for any clues regarding dad getting butchered, but also to try to get someone to recognize she's in charge. Again, it's mostly stalling but somewhat legit.

[Zweanslord]

Kendra takes off, and would have glared at Kanllu were it not for the possibility Kanllu might have seen that. Gomma nods to Kendra as she leaves, and looks at Kanllu. "Most of the work was the work of everyday, keeping some nearby towns in order, keeping the city bustling and the like. The area is relatively calm and stable, which does make it the envy of the neighbouring duke, as he has had numerous troubles of his own. However, to claim him as a potential enemy seems like an overstatement, as those troubles keep him down enough. Now, there were talks about opening up new trade routes, but as you can tell, these will have to wait for quite a while. Other than that, it does not boil to my surface thoughts at the moment, Milady."

[tonberryking]

That would be the duchy to the east. Kanllu rubs her chin. The western duchy has always had problems (but then again, so would you if your 'royals' were part chromatic dragon and spent the majority of their time organizing defenses to stave off invasions from farther west.) though they wouldn't send trouble to any of the other dukedoms. Kanllu couldn't even begin to wonder if the north was involved. All she even knew was the climate was colder and they had the one Duchess amongst the duchies (well, not including Kanllu herself) and otherwise had no information on hand. She vaguely recalls meeting some of the northerners when she was *far* younger and had gone to court with her father. Back when she still called him papa and didn't hate him. They were contrite and eager to get as many little northern nobles to stay in court than stay at home. They must have a bigger family than the Soress did.

"Trade routes across the coast? ...That would benefit us greatly but it doesn't sign a signature on whomever called for my family's assassination..." That also probably rules out the west entirely; what family they bother to send as ambassadors into the king's court were always trying to promote trade.

"Hmm. Nothing will be obvious in this investigation then. I'll have to discuss with Frel next on these matters as well as conducting the investigation. Personally if I have to."

Now, she's just waiting outright for Frel to arrive.

[Zweanslord]

However, it will be a while until Frel arrives. Gomma gets anxious as he sees you waiting and suggest: "Perhaps I can have some food or drink brought, Milady? Also, well, forgive me for asking, but.. what do you intend to do? I mean, well, you are kind of in a.. how to put it.." Some pause. "...unique situation?"

[tonberryking]

"That should be obvious," Kanllu starts, while also gesturing for Gomma to send for food, "Apart from finding my family's killer, I intend to take my rightful place as duchess." Why wouldn't it be obvious? She's the last remaining royal of the Soress duchy. "Blood is blood; no matter that my mother was a concubine; unless my father was even more... lively than we've been led to believe I *am* the rightful heir." She sounds cross but Kanllu does her best to look civil.


"Speak your mind, Gomma. Is there anything in the way of my ascension? I imagine I will have to go to the royal court and let ceremony stand, but I'm the only one left. What can possibly keep me from it?"

[Zweanslord]

"Well, Milady, you know as well as I do that the killer of your family is still about.. people do not know you are still alive. When that gets known, well.. your life may be in danger, Milady." Gomma explained, clearly not having objections to your claim, but rather worrying about Kanllu's safety. Death certainly has a tendency of keeping somebody from one's heritage.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu had been trying to survive the past few days; the thought of being targeted again had always been on her mind. She'd like to say she was prepared for it (especially now...) and let would be killers come out from behind the curtains, however...

"I can only stay hidden for just a short time, Gomma. Without a duke or duchess, Soress will remain stable for just so long before we lose the autonomy the king gave our land." Or his advisors; Kanllu isn't sure of who runs the court: the king or the courtiers or both. "Think about it; the West would want Soress' resources and trade funneled to their war efforts. The East's been loosing influence and new holdings would improve that too." Kanllu's lessons seem to be serving her well; as horrible as it is, she's glad she's explaining this to a proper politician and not one of her brothers who had little to no experience in actually running a duchy.

"We'll at least have to send a secret messenger to the King to let them know I'm alive, which is why I need Redfa Mon and Frel. After that we can figure out how to flush out my family's killer in some fashion, but I don't think it will be easy... Where else could we find help to deal with him...it."

[Zweanslord]

Gomma bows before Kanllu. "As you wish, Milady. Know that I support you, but I had to bring up the issue. Not all will support this action. After all, you return a few days after the entire family died, and you are the least known member of the family." He explains in earnest.

Taking the hint she does not want anything to drink or eat at the moment, he waits along with her until Frel arrives.

After about twenty minutes, in which Gomma did order some food and drinks to be brought, Frel arrives. He is a broad man, and that he has some weight with the military could be taken quite literally, as his belly is rather large. Perhaps that is why he is hardly ever in the heavier armours, because those are heavy and such a bother to fit to the figure of this man.

His gaze, however, is less than jolly than his belly may suggest. They stand serious and experience is clear from it. While the man may indulge in food, he does not indulge in frolicking about, and despite his large measures, he does manage to dress himself properly in the well made and decorated leather armour with metal plates on vulnerable locations.

Upon his entry, he gazes upon Kanllu, and immediately seems to weigh her appearance and outlook. While his face may betray some of his opinions, it is only up for a skilled person to find those out. Usually, it is better to ask, as he is known to be honest. Brutally honest, in fact.

"Greetings." He states simply. "Please explain." He adds in a simple, but serious manner.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu gestures for Frel to have a seat and she recounts everything from right before the monster attack, to a detailed account of where she was. Somewhat. While she's honest about how she was arguing with her father prior, she omits entirely the part about her bite and her trip into the village. She was just lost in the woods for a long time, fearing an attack from an unknown source... which IS true.


She finishes up with a recap of the council meeting. "And Kendra isn't happy. I don't think alot of people are going to be, really, but the most important thing now is to let the King know my life isn't over and how we're going to take care of this assassin. I need you and Redfa Mon's help for both, if I'm to assume control as the new duchess."

She's outlined everything that's happened and needs support from him. Pretty standard, but do I need a bluff for her omission?

[Zweanslord]

Frel sits down and listens attentively, letting Kanllu talk things over for however much she likes. He nods when she is done and grins as she speaks about Kendra.

"What you describe is a serious matter. Know that you taking over control will not go without a fight. Not a physical fight, but a political one. There are those who will not want to see the bastard daughter of the deceased Duke take over control, and even the populace will find it hard to swallow as the last time they considered you a potential heir was when you were a mere baby.

To be honest, I do not even know whether it is a good thing to do what you are saying. As far as I gathered, you were being trained to be a mere bodyguard and assistant to the future heir, not to actually take control. You will face adversaries in multiple aspects, and it is rather suspecious that you alone survived, especially because everybody taught the whole family was killed.

I will have to think about what you are asking, and see whether to support you. While your father certainly earned my trust and loyality, you have not done so, and it is only because of my loyality to your father that I am not walking out right now."

For a moment, he shakes his head, and then looks at Kanllu. His gaze is firm and strict, showing that inside, he is a steadfast man. To win him over to your side, more than a mere request must be made.

No need for a Bluff.

[tonberryking]

Reacting as though she'd been slapped, Kanllu stares at Frel for a moment and doesn't seem to know whether to scream at him, slap him, or something else.

Kanllu gets right up in front of Frel, looking him right in the beady eyes. It's not *just* about her even if pride and birthright drive her on, it's not about her curse. It's about this:

"Then you walk out on this duchy. I am going to need your help in getting word to the royal court, as much as I need Redfa Mon's. There's no discussion there, Frel, because you are obligated for the sake of my father to help me that much. Afterward? Do whatever you feel is right. Stay by me or sit on your hands, or seek employment in another land. But if I die or if I'm thrown out then Soress is ended; the king will either let it be split apart by the other duchies or send a noble from another family, with their own agendas to run this place wether or not they're going to be benevolent towards the people. Yes, I'm certainly untested, but by my blood I'm also the only chance to keep the duchy as it is. So will you honor me by at least staying until I can prove to you, that your loyalty and skills are needed for my sake? Rightfully?"

[Zweanslord]

Frel remains unphazed as Kanllu talks to him. He simply responded in earnest. "You do not need my help to send a message to the royal court. Have several of Redfa Mon's horseman escort the messenger, and he will get to the court."

After that, there is a short pause, during which Frel looks dead serious and continues to do so as he speaks. His tone shifted to a more negative one. "I do not like your words, Madam. You do not have any power here until it is recognised, and so you have no say on what I do until then. You show a lack of trust in the royal blood of the King, and yet you ask trust in your blood? Who is to say your agenda is better than that of others? You state you are the only chance that the duchy will stay as it is and I disagree. The duchy will change, whether because you rule it or somebody else."

After this, Frel stands up and looks down upon Kanllu. "I remain in my current position, but that is not because of you. It is because of my loyalty to the duchy and because that is my job. And it is not my job to listen to women trying to become duchess. Any last words before I leave, Madam?" And with that, Frel gives Kanllu a chance to speak, as he obviously intends to leave soon. Meanwhile, a gulping Gomma can be heard. He does not dare interfere.

[tonberryking]

Refusing to concede that her view of the duchy may be wrong, Kanllu nearly orders him out before he gets the chance to leave on his own.

"Don't you care about justice then?? The lord you claim loyalty to is dead and you're walking out of here? I don't believe it. If you at least plan to hunt down the killer, I have the right to be kept informed, and to help plan it if I see fit. Whether or not you think I'm fit to lead, and even if the duchy is placed in others' hands I have that right." she nearly yells, wondering if everyone so loyal to her father is so intent on crossing her.

Or better yet, tell me then, what can I do to have my power recognized. If not by the law or you, but by the people.You seem to know the answer."

[Zweanslord]

As she nearly yells against Frel, Frel simply looks down upon her, or rather, he stared down annoyed at her. What is obvious, is that he is not impressed by those last words. Not having found anything amidst them to be convinced to stay, and indeed, his stare looking more aggravated when she started about justice.

When she said he seemed to know the answer, he replied: "I do not care about the answer. I do care that you seem to be wasting my time in a hissy fit. You can direct your questions to Councilmember Gomma." And with that, he stepped towards the door and opened it. "Goodbye, Madam." He said in an automatic and polite manner before leaving, the door closing behind him.

With just Kanllu and Councilmember Gomma remaining, Gomma seemed to realise that fact fully well. He looked nervous and was twiddling his fingers. He had seen how Kanllu could be very intimidating earlier and she did not exactly seem to be in a better mood now either. He remained silent, except for another gulp.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu turns her gaze over the council man's way and nearly starts giving him grief but the look of fear in his eyes sobers her as much as the circumstances allow. Heaving a sigh, she collapses into her seat and for a few brooding moments says nothing.

"I'm off to a wonderful start," she says, looking up with a tinge of apology in her town and face, Clearly, this whole debacle is taxing me; Gomma, where can I bed down until Redfa Mon arrives? I fear there's nothing left to do until then..."

[Zweanslord]

Gomma nods, and when he speaks he tries to quickly get that part out of the way. "Well, you could always try the Rusty Dragon or the White Deer." Suggested Gomma as options with regards to places to sleep: inns.

[tonberryking]

"And can you provide me with guards, or at least the fare to stay in the inn? I've no money." Kanllu's tone has soften considerably, but she doesn't dare apologize, or come off as weak sounding. "Furthermore, if you have an armory here, I would like to better equip myself in some armor or at least find a better knife for my bedside."

[Zweanslord]

"Well, not here." Gomma explained, as the Town Hall itself did not have an armoury. "The garrison is across the street, however." Letting a pause fall, Gomma added: "I will arrange for a guard, and some money."

"I can be back in a moment with a guard." Walking to the door, he looks at Kanllu for a moment, wondering if she would stay there or not as he fetched a guard.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu is lost within her own thoughts; she's not going anywhere for the moment, though she has taken to looking out the closest available window. She eyes Gomma with a look, as if asking why he's still hanging around.

[Zweanslord]

Gomma rushed out, leaving Kanllu to her thoughts for a while. After quite some time, Gomma returns, with a guard in tow. She is dressed in leather armour and carries a spear with her, looking strict and ready. Also in his hand is a pouch, probably filled with money. Closing the door behind them, the female guard steps forward to Kanllu and greets by pressing her free arm against her chest and leaning forward in a half-bow.

"Greetings, Milady. My name is Rachee Demure. I am here to serve and protect you, as instructed by Councilmember Gomma." Rising up again, she looks at Kanllu with her green eyes, quickly glancing over her to study what kind of person she has in front of herself. She looks calm and serious. Her brown hair reaches to just above her shoulders, and she seems to be somewhere in her twenties.

Gomma quickly speaks up before Kanllu can respond to Rachee Demure: "And here is some money for staying at the inn." And with that, he quickly presses the closed pouch in Kanllu's hand, which is obviously filled with coins.

[tonberryking]

Kanllu studies the Demure lady back for a few moments, inwardly noting the sense Gomma had to give her a girl guard.

"While I appreciate your sense of propriety, to keep rumors from spreading any more than they have, I expect you to refer to me as "Kanna", not "Kanllu" or "milady" or anything else until I ask otherwise." she gets up, retrieves her bow and heads for the door, expecting that she'll be followed.

"Councilman, you have proven yourself loyal and I'll not soon forget. Send a messenger when Redfa Mon arrives; the letter to the capitol is our utmost priority..."

So saying, Kanllu heads out, though her pace slows, expecting her guard to show her the way to the inn. However, once out of earshot, she does pose a question:

"Rachee, are you able to acquire anything from the garrison's armory?" she asks, casually.

[Zweanslord]

"Yes, Mi- Kannu." Rachee Demure quickly corrects herself and then follows Kanllu, studying her with her green eyes.

When Kanllu addresses Gomma, he smiles and nods, though there is a short look on his face of confusion as she mentions the letter just after mentioning Redfa Mon. "Yes, Milady. Will you be staying at the Rusty Dragon or the White Deer?" He asks, at which time Rachee Demure looks at Kanllu as well. If Kanllu expects Rachee to guide her to the inn, she will have to know which inn to guide Kanllu to.

When both Rachee and Kanllu are outside and Kanllu asks her question, Rachee responds simply: "Only for myself or other guards, Mada-" Rachee almost bites her lip as she corrects herself. "Kannu."

From what I recall, Kanllu is not that aware of all goings on in the city, so you will have to roll a Knowledge (local) check to know the difference between the Rusty Dragon and the White Deer. If your total check is below 10, you know nothing specific about them. Ofcourse, you can just ask as well.

[tonberryking]

"Kanna" the duchess to be hisses under her breath. "It's Kanna." which inn to choose gives her pause...

[roll0]

[Zweanslord]

Rachee Demure bites her lip in shame. "My apologies." She said.

Kanllu remembers why the inns were called like that. The White Deer has a pair of large wooden deers next to its entrance, while the Rusty Dragon has a (quite rusty) iron dragon on the building's roof. While Kanllu does not recall that much about them besides their looks, she does recall that while the White Deer offers better accomodation, the Rusty Dragon is more popular. There were some other details about them as well, but they seem to elude her memory for the moment.

[tonberryking]

"It's fine. But I'll be staying at the White Deer." Kanllu doesn't want to stay in a popular place, which would mean there would be too many other eyes on her.

So saying she gestures for Demure to lead the way, allowing her to walk in front of her.

[Zweanslord]

The two arrive at the White Deer, an inn in front of a pair of wooden life-sized deer stand, carved with painstaking care from white birch. They stand astride the entrance to the sizable tavern and inn. The White Deer commands an impressive view to the Gulf to the north. This new building is a grand affair, three stories tall with a stone first floor and wooden upper floors with what must be a dozen large rooms.

Entering said stone first floor through the door as you walk past the white deer, a spacious entry hall, clean and well taken care off, welcomes you. Standing at the counter is a somber and quiet man, looking at you two entering, as well as the man taking a drink at the bar. A girl is busy mopping the floor near the stairs leading up.

[tonberryking]

Remember those job/money issues I mentioned? I've been working nonstop to get more cash, and I may not have a shot to post again til thursday after this.

Getting Rachee to go arrange for her room, Kanllu remains silent until she's sitting at the bar herself. From there she tries to see why things are so somber; the visage outside nearly made her pause before entering the inn.

[roll0] Gather Information:

"So is everyone in this town stricken with sorrow?" she casually asks of the barfly...

[Zweanslord]

Rachee Demure nodss and walks over to the innkeeper to arrange a room. "Greetings. I would like to arrange a room for myself and the lady over there." The innkeeper raises a brown eyebrow for a moment, but then responds. "Alright. Who to note down?" "Rachee Demure and Kanna." The innkeeper looks at Rachee for a moment, but then jots something down as Rachee gets out the gold. Stating the price for the stay and briefly informing about eating options in a somewhat gruff manner, you hear his name is Garridan Viskalai. Rachee soon bids goodbye to both him and Kanllu when she goes to check out the room.

As Kanllu sits at the bar, Garridan moves from his counter to the bar besides it and turns to Kanllu. He looks confused upon hearing the question, as if he was wondering sorrow was that obvious on his face or anything. Soon he grasps for an answer though: "The Soress family? Yes, horrible." After a bit, he adds: "Want something?" Obviously referring to something to drink.

[tonberryking]

Okay. I'm done with the excessive absences now that for the next two weeks my hours have stagnated back into actually affording my needs. Sorry to cut it so close but I had to work so much this past week.

"Your house special, please. My friend Rachee will cover the charge." Kanllu reclines in her seat, appearing only half interested. "Can you tell me, good sir, are there any new rumors to what happened to the Soress?"

The fresh lycanthrope leans forward. She hopes she looks the part of some ignorant huntress who's been in the woods away from wherever news spreads. if this is a dead end, however, she's calling a night, eager to sleep in an actual bed without the fear of turning into a thunder lizard out of control until sunrise.



Okay, just flat out asking what the barkeep knows. if this is a dead end, I'm just going to speed things up. whatever your next move is, I'll wait for.

[Zweanslord]

Soon enough, there was some very house special, completely ordinary brand of ale standing in front of Kanllu. "There." He says before responding to your question: "No."

"Come on, don't be like that, Mister Viskalai." The man merely shrugs before turning back to his own business. "Hello there, my name is Hordan Gimlai." The other man at the bar says. He has a dark skin, brown eyes and a bald head. His atire is simple traveller's garb. "Been staying here for a bit. I heard that some believe vampires struck the Soress family, but I honestly think that is truly the realm of rumours. What really happened, well, who knows? Something severe happened, that's for sure."

[tonberryking]

Kanllu looks evenly at the man behind her mug of ale. "Really. Vampires?" despite trying to keep a low profile, she doesn't take the disdain and disbelief out of her tone. "I thought vampires feared water," she says, not *quite* getting the superstition right and assuming that ANY body of water that's large enough (like the nearby sea) would get the undead to flee.

"And where are you from, ...Mr, Grimlai? How far have you traveled?"

[Zweanslord]

"Yes, holy water. You'll scare the daylights out of them for sure with a bottle of that!" Sounding confident with that, he continues. "I've been around, you know. Been travelling through the region and all. I hail from this small farming village of Tensoi, named after a valliant hero, you know. But that's pretty much the only thing remarkable going for it, so here I am, trying to make some ends meet with no real place to call home anymore. And you?"

[tonberryking]

"Apprentice ranger to one of the..ah, late Duke's own men." Kanllu says with that bit of half truth she's come to rely rather strongly upon. Also, she tries to recall anything about this place called Tensoi...

[roll0]knowledge geography on the place. Also, sense motive; something irks me about this guy and I'm not sure what: [roll1] Sense motive to feel if he's lying about this.

After making a little more small talk, Kanllu excuses herself from the man from Tensoi and hopefully Rachee will have the room ready. She plans to eat and sleep as soon as possible.

[Zweanslord]

The man nods to that explanation. "Sad to hear, Miss." After making some more small chat, Kanllu retreats to the room. Rachee has everything prepared, and bed is made for Kanllu to dive in after a more than decent dinner. Even lying in bed, she can not recall anything froom Tensoi. She may have been irked by Hordan Gimlai, but there was no hint of there actually being a reason for that Kanllu could trace.

Rachee keeps guard by the door at the start of the evening, sitting on lotus pose for a while. She looks curiously at Kanllu at one point, but then lets it rest and goes back to guarding.

If Kanllu goes to sleep like that, she will find Rachee still in the room in front of the door the next morning, sleeping while her own bed is unslept. The next morning seems to be just another morning, with the morning sun rays being blocked by the shutters.

[tonberryking]

Then it's just another morning but with her purpose closer at hand. Kanllu doesn't find herself very hungry, so after getting her gear on (and refusing help from Rachee should it be offered) the scout turned lycanthrope opens the windows to see how the weather is before collecting her bodyguard and going on her way back the the council hall. With any luck, Redfa Mon will have arrived and she can start planning her intent to secretly let the King's council know that the Soress have a single heir left.

With any luck...

[Zweanslord]

As Kanllu walk out of the inn, there is not even a goodbye from the innkeeper. Rachee walks along with you, keeping quiet so far. She has looked at you much like she would look like a guard superior. The trip to the council hall is a normal one, with the usually bustling of a city this size at this time of hour.

At the council hall, Kanllu is greeted and let in, though there are some suspecious looks due to the unfamiliarity of your presence. Kanllu is quickly guided upstairs to the same room again, where Rachee proceeds to take guard outside. Councilmember Gomma is already in the room, as is Redfa Mon. He is a tall and broad person, strong and in his late thirties. Waving blond hair reaches to his shoulders and he is commonly described as a handsome person by the females in this city, having to decline many advances so far as he is happily married. Still, he devotes a lot of time to his job as leader of the cavalry forces, often leaving his wife and children behind at home. Both Gomma and Redfa Mon halt their talk when Kanllu enters and look at her.