S01E14 - Taking Root

General Summary

Excerpt from the Journal of Garrick Halloway, Steward of Thornbrush Manor

Morning:

Breakfast was served in proper fashion today, though one might hesitate to call what unfolded “proper” in the traditional Thornbrush sense. The dining hall, usually a place of ordered conversation and respectful quiet, rang instead with the laughter of Lady Martha, the wandering curiosities of young Toma, and the ever-peculiar presence of the one called Chewbacca. The latter, a reformed killer by all accounts, now bounces about like a hound off its leash—harmless, for now, but I remain unconvinced he knows the bounds of civilized behavior.

Baron Maximus—ever the statesman even at table—guided the morning’s discourse toward the matter of Toma’s upbringing. He’s taken it upon himself to shepherd the boy’s development, clearly sensing some larger destiny in him. The idea of pairing divine philosophy with Chewbacca’s... religion... was raised. I withhold judgment, but if I ever see that creature leading a prayer circle, I may request early retirement.

Midday:

Ashryn arrived not long after breakfast with the look of one who’s read too many grim portents in the stars. She voiced concern that the miasma—curse it—might have some affinity for young Toma. (Gods help us if that proves true.) The conversation turned heady and abstract—ants, defenses, the nature of suffering, the moral weight of power. I fetched tea and left them to it.

Chewbacca and Ashryn later departed for the village. I made note to send word ahead to prepare the general store for their arrival—no sense letting the beast frighten the staff. Reports returned that Ashryn procured a proper walking stick, and Chewbacca, some manner of club. Apparently the two encountered Sister Emeril, who, to her credit, was already suspicious of Toma’s condition. She expressed concern—not for the first time—that the boy may pose a threat, however unintentionally. Sensible woman.

Afternoon:

Sister Amaryl arrived at the manor in short order. I ensured the parlor was cleaned and stocked with something calming—lavender tea and oat biscuits. Baron Maximus received her with his usual practiced ease. Maia observed from the corner, her eyes too sharp by half.

The Sister and Toma spoke at length. Philosophy, again. The boy is too clever for his years and perhaps too curious for his own good. He posed questions on suffering and community that left even the Sister pausing for thought. (Note to self: monitor Toma’s reading materials. And keep him out of the study after dusk.)

Dinner followed, though it more resembled a symposium than a meal. Talk of trust, existence, and the moral fabric of reality flitted across the table like flies in summer. The Baron attempted to restore order—clearly uneasy with discussions of mortality while reaching for the gravy boat. A mild argument on etiquette ensued. It would’ve been amusing had I not feared for the fabric of the household.

As the day began its nightly chill, Brynn offered Chewbacca a study guide to the teachings of Ashram. The boy asked to be taught. Thoughtful, if a touch patronizing. The boy’s heart seems in the right place, even if his mind wanders too far, too fast.

The Sisters departed with blessings and formal thanks. I oversaw their exit and ensured no further village gossip would be stirred.

The Baron lingered by the hearth, reflecting aloud on the tenuous bonds of trust within our walls and without. Ashryn then asked, of all things, whether the boy could make a star fall. The Baron’s response was measured—but I saw the tension in his shoulders.

Final Note:
Tomorrow, I shall review the security of the Manorhouse again with Cedric Thorne. If the child draws stars from the sky and miasma to his breath, we must be prepared. Even kindness, I’ve found, needs a firm hand to hold the gate.

— GH

Campaign

Twilight in the Dales

Protagonists