Orphanage and Orphans of Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

[sweetlikesplenda]

The topic of history doesn't leave much of an impression with Amanda or Timmy but the rest of kids appears mildly interested.

Dannic would gently press for the Knighthood story from Aaron, whenever the Knight had time.

After a longer while Amanda comes back to where she was and picks up the little sweet gift before darting away somewhere.

Quinn observes the chess piece, then after searching a moment in his tools picks up a small blade and a piece of wood from in front of the fireplace. A thoughtful moment passes then he starts his own carving and soon a rook piece, even and well proportioned, stands in front of the knight.

Aaron would pick up the rook piece and examine it with visible appreciation. "Very well done, Quinn. A powerful piece that is used in many combinations. Do you know how to play the game?" He would ask, setting the piece down.

As he waited for the boy's response he would pull from under his collar a platinum necklace with a red colored, stylized knight piece that was made from stone with small diamonds in the eye sockets attached to it.

After the boy's response to his question of if he played Lanceboard, he would ask Quinn "Do you think you could make for me a wooden version of this piece, and the other pieces?"

[Mac]

"Ashley" Would be seen at the Pathfinders hall offering to donating her time cleaning up after the children and assisting Michael Dunn in the kitchen. She would if allowed, spend time with the children playing games and singing songs. In an effort to help the Orphans of Baldur's Gate.

[YourMoveHolyMan]

Michael and Rain become more frequent visitors in the Pathfinder's Hall, with Michael continuing to help not just with the breakfasts and dinners, but lunch time meals as well. He sticks to his simple meal preparations, Tarina has to do the 'heavy lifting' of the complicated recipes or baking. Meanwhile, Michael lets any of the children willing or wanting to play with Rain. He even provides a leather ball (lent from a particularly fey-like local elf) for the children to take her out in the back alley and throw and play fetch.

Rain herself is full of energy - wagging tail, doggy grins, and snuffles and snorts at all the new scents coming and going from the hall and its denizens. When she's playing with the children Michael eventually has to step in and make her rest inside - as she's given to play fetch to past the point of exhaustion. Catching the ball dutifully each time its thrown.

Michael eventually approaches Dorne with the line of questioning.

"I know you're taking up their martial training. You think any of them have an interest in archery? Maybe working with animals?"

[kleomenes]

"Ashley" Would be seen at the Pathfinders hall offering to donating her time cleaning up after the children and assisting Michael Dunn in the kitchen. She would if allowed, spend time with the children playing games and singing songs. In an effort to help the Orphans of Baldur's Gate.

It already having been established that contact with the children was only allowed by those vouched for by Pathfinder Hall's guardians, this would not be allowed until Ashley was vouched for.

Hidden: show

It would be clear that only those who have been vouched for are allowed to see the children, as the safety of the children is taken seriously. The doors to the quarters where the children are unless supervised by a caretaker or another adult, are always kept locked.

When Ameris learned of Ashley's offer, he would make clear to all she was not to be admitted without his express approval; and would ask that if she called back it was made known that Ashley was to speak to him, or Telia, about helping around Pathfinder's Hall.

The implication is that she has not been vouched for.

[kleomenes]

Meanwhile, Michael lets any of the children willing or wanting to play with Rain. He even provides a leather ball (lent from a particularly fey-like local elf) for the children to take her out in the back alley and throw and play fetch.

Ameris would, over breakfast, politely make clear that its important that any children who leave the orphanage, or are even in the main porch area temporarily, need to be supervised and guarded at all times. He cites the past history of the orphanage with Bhaalists, and the recent suspected Bhaalist seen in the sewers, as reasons for why such strict security needs to be observed.

He'd be apologetic if Michael gave him an "I know." reaction!

He would suggest that the training room could be used for a ball game if no one to watch over the children in the back alley was available.

[YourMoveHolyMan]

"I'd prefer the training room myself, but don't have a key to let them in and out. I'll make sure they're guarded if they want to go outside though - fresh air is good for them." Is Michael's reply to Ameris. He avoids the knowing look, shrugging off the reminder with a smile instead. "Good eye on the safety check, Ameris."

[kleomenes]

Aaron would be very concerned as the children are taken outside to play. He would dutifully be within close proximity to them, on the occasion they were outside playing. Though, he would consult with Ameris and agree with his statement that the children should remain indoors during their play time.

Perhaps over the same busy breakfast, Ameris would suggest that Michael's suggestion that fresh air and outside play is a good thing is very true, and it just needs to be made doubly safe. It should be fine with proper supervision and a guard, but he would defer to Aaron on what arrangements were suitable.

[Mendoza]

Subject: Pathfinder Hall RP

Michael eventually approaches Dorne with the line of questioning.

"I know you're taking up their martial training. You think any of them have an interest in archery? Maybe working with animals?"

Dorne tilts his head and listens closely to Michael's offer before nodding slowly and replying, "I am not sure truth be told, I suppose I could ask the Lion Cubs at the next lesson. I have had three new additions to the group that are considering joining the Nerys and Greyfox Tribe. Perhaps one of them may be interested since such training would certainly be advantageous to their new life with the Greyfox.

[Nomster]

Subject: Pathfinder Hall RP

"Ashley" Would be seen at the Pathfinders hall offering to donating her time cleaning up after the children and assisting Michael Dunn in the kitchen. She would if allowed, spend time with the children playing games and singing songs. In an effort to help the Orphans of Baldur's Gate.

It already having been established that contact with the children was only allowed by those vouched for by Pathfinder Hall's guardians, this would not be allowed until Ashley was vouched for.

Hidden: show

It would be clear that only those who have been vouched for are allowed to see the children, as the safety of the children is taken seriously. The doors to the quarters where the children are unless supervised by a caretaker or another adult, are always kept locked.

When Ameris learned of Ashley's offer, he would make clear to all she was not to be admitted without his express approval; and would ask that if she called back it was made known that Ashley was to speak to him, or Telia, about helping around Pathfinder's Hall.

The implication is that she has not been vouched for.

Telia would leave a short note for Ashley,

Dear Ashley,

I need to speak with you at your earliest convenience.

Signed,
Telia Santraeger

When there is talk of the children being outside, Telia would be quite firm on that the children do need some fresh air and not only see walls. She explains that the city has few green areas inside and mentions the pond area in front of the White Mask Theater which they have considered. It is however a refugee camp and not likely to move away soon.

The back alley of Pathfinder Hall will have to do for now but she agrees that the children cannot go out alone, they will always need supervision. Perhaps some field trips could even be made to the Farmlands, which are relatively safe under the city watch's eyes. She seems to value the children's freedom and wants them to experience the outside world, in a positive way.

She further would add that she trusts Michael with the safety of the children and lets him know that she will hand him a key the next time she sees him.

[Duster47]

Another visitor arrives at the Ilmater-tended orphanage building. This visitor a blonde-headed, fur-and-leather-wearing woman. She looks a bit scruffy and wind-blown, perhaps from a long journey?

Hidden: show

She tells the nearest temple staff person, "Cool winds. I'm Nerys, Emissary of the Greyfox Tribe. I'm here to talk more with Sister Juna about some of the orphans. Also, can anyone tell me where I can find Lion Blade Dorne?"

She takes note of whatever information there is to share about Dorne then waits for an audience with Sister Juna.

[DM Arrakeen]

After few days Dannic changes his strategy and instead of rhymes and notes starts leaving little, funny pictures of children, animals, adults at the Hall or food, which mostly consist of cake, pie, and more cake.

Tarina feels less teased by the pictures, due to their comedic nature and as they are no longer targeting her as the poems seemed to. Being the avoidant type she is still unsure how to respond to them, and doesn't say anything about them to anyone else. Unlike the poems, she does keep the pictures, if for no reason other than feeling guilty about throwing away a child's drawings. She stacks them in a pile near her bedroll, under an empty bottle to keep drafts from blowing them around.

When Sylvi is addressed by the shaman the woman seems rather incredulous about the idea of a shaman dealing with Amanda's nightmares.
"With all due respect miss. I'm not sure what spirits may have to do with her terrible dreams. I'm afraid that whatever... Magic spiritualism you talk about may only scare her more."

"I-I, I wouldn't have to talk to her none, ma'am. I don't want to scare her, I don't. I just want to help. Spirits affect dreams, they, they affect everything you do. When someone's feeling bad, they've bad spirits about them. If you get rid of them, you can, you can help make someone feel better."

Tarina looks upset about Sylvi's response, and so makes only this one attempt at arguing her case. If Sylvi continues to disapprove, Tarina doesn't press the issue further and departs. In such case she'd begin to avoid Sylvi for some time after, except when contact is strictly necessary.

Dannic, despite Tarina's lack of response, keeps making his comical little drawings of food. Now different types of cookies, pies, fruits start to grow legs arms and heads and dance together or fight a enormous spoon monster.



Sylvi nods thoughtfully to Tarina's words then speaks her mind.
"I'm no healer miss, just a teacher so please discuss this matter with Brother Ameris. I am no specialist in such magical matter and I'm truly sceptical about the spirits you talk about."That being said the woman gets back to her duties.

[DM Arrakeen]

A letter arrives for sister Juna of Ilmater, sealed in blue wax and bearing the imprint of Mystra's eight-pointed star.

"Dear Sister Juna of Ilmater,

It has come to my attention that one of the children being cared for in Pathfinder's Hall is Mystran by faith, and has attained some measure of knowledge of magic.

I am pleased to announce that this child has been offered a patroned apprenticeship with the Temple of Mystra if she is willing to serve the Lady of Mysteries in such a manner. If it pleases you, and the Temple of Ilmater, we should dearly like to introduce ourselves to her and offer her this bright hope in a new future here in Baldur's Gate.

Please inform me of the progress of our proposal, either in writing or in person.

With the richness of the mystery of the Lady,
Priestess Aeili Azenci."

Juna sends a return letter to the Temple of Mystra

Priestess Aeili Azenci of Mystra,

Both the Temple and the Orphanage would be grateful for such an opportunity being offered to Mili. You have our blessings in proceeding with this matter.
It is such a joyous moment to see that some of our charges have such a bright future ahead of them.

Mercy's bless,

-Sister Juna

[DM Arrakeen]

After few days Dannic changes his strategy and instead of rhymes and notes starts leaving little, funny pictures of children, animals, adults at the Hall or food, which mostly consist of cake, pie, and more cake.


When Sylvi is addressed by the shaman the woman seems rather incredulous about the idea of a shaman dealing with Amanda's nightmares.
"With all due respect miss. I'm not sure what spirits may have to do with her terrible dreams. I'm afraid that whatever... Magic spiritualism you talk about may only scare her more."

Michael Dunn, upon hearing first hand from Tarina about Sylvi's response, seeks the woman out himself. Of course following in his steps is the ever-loyal Rain, his faithful canine companion.

"I know you're worried about Tarina scaring the girl worse. But she won't. She's got a true gift. My little lady here, Rain Dog. She got bit by a vampire, she was badly wounded, and I don't know what I'd have done if Tarina hadn't been there to do what she does. She chased off the foul spirits that lingered, and Rain Dog slept peacefully through the night, til we could bring her to a priest the next day."

He nods his head and continues his explanation,

"She can help. Let her at least try. She can do a lot of good with her gift."

"Mister Dunn I am a pragmatic woman, spirits and shamanistic practices are not my area of expertise. Knowing Amanda that would only frighten her more." Sylvi folds her hands looking sternly to Michael, trying her very best to ignore the dog. "And in the end the call is not mine to make. Brother Ameris will decide if this shamanistic approach is something to be allowed. Now if you excuse me I have kids' homework to check." Sylvi nods stiffly then returns to the pile of homework waiting to be graded.

[DM Arrakeen]

Telia would seem displeased at the answer. She takes notice of Dannic trying to avoid her. She prepares a paper where she has written the dogma of Llira. The writing is surrounded by musical instruments, people dancing and musical notes, all quite colourful. She would not speak of the paper but Dannic would find it a few days after the incident, when he is about to have a lesson. A short note is placed above the colourful paper.

Dear Dannic,

I would like you to read these words and think of them.

Signed,
Telia

Our Lady of Joy - Lliira

Exult in life, and find joy in all things.

Out of grief and despair, wrest joy, and join in the dance.

Celebrate and honor deaths and the dead—the best mourning is laughing remembrance.

My true servants seek joy always through working to bestow it on others.

Hide no true feelings, but dance them out if it is not prudent to speak them aloud.

Gather into celebrations the lost, the lonely, the exiled and outlaw, the shunned, and even your foes: Festivals are for all.

Let folk follow their own desires, and respect their choices.

Learn what folk find funny, and what lightens their hearts, and in this doing come to know yourself and how best to serve Lliira and all intelligent beings.

Spread joy wherever and whenever possible, and allow no one to be sad when mirth or comfort could be given to them.

Dannic reads the note and would appear thoughtful for a day or two, less quick to tease others or joke.
After that he still avoids Telia and Timmy as much as possible but leaves a note for the sorceress. His penmanship could use a fair amount of practice...

Mrs Santraeger,
I read your note. I won't tease Timmy or others that can't understand jokes anymore.

Dannic

When Telia notices Timmy getting sad and frustrated when she is busy with something else, she tries to encourage him to write down tales he thinks of so that he can share them with her later.

Timmy not being able to write so good yet only gets more upset upon failing in this task. He can't seem to write whatever he wishes to tell Telia.
This growing frustration would cause him to be more temperamental than usual and even more clingy when it comes to Telia.

Mili becomes intrigued by Telia's source of power and asks questions about that. It shows that the girl doesn't know much about spontaneous casters.

Telia would answer any questions she can. She would speak of that sorcerers have magic in their blood and that most of them come from dragons. That long ago, a dragon passed on their magic into humans somehow and that now and then, it shows up but not always in every child to a sorcerer parent and not even in every generation. She would liken this to how tiefling blood shows up, or even aasimar blood. Telia then speaks of that sorcerous magic can come from other sources too. Extraplanar beings are mention but she does not speak of it in detail. Instead, she focuses on her own bloodline. She explains that her magic comes from the old Netherse, gesturing at her pale skin and black hair. The Netherse being exceptionally talented in magic, fled Netheril when everything collapsed. Magic changed as Mystra herself changed but they were still powerful and passed that power onto their children and down generations.

Mili listens with interest, asking then questions about manifestations of magic and how did Telia learn to weave spells if she didn't study them.

In the beginning, the cat would be either ignored of if he was too close too Amanda's liking she simply puts distance between them. After few days, she starts to accept Silvyr's presence and even observe him from her hide or comfort spots.
///Remind me few days from now to give another update.///

Silvyr, being more clever than any regular cat, would take notice of what distance he can get away with. He would most often just casually approach and then lie down to sleep, seeming content to not try to attract Amanda's attention or even look at her, as staring at someone is in a cat's world trying to assert dominance. He would pretty much pretend that he is not around, even if he is - ignoring Amanda but somehow, still being present around her. There would not be much observable about the cat. He sleeps. A lot. It might be fascinating for a child however to watch how particular a cat is about grooming themselves. Silvyr is no exception, he knows he is magnificent and takes great care to make sure his coat shines. Silvyr can also often be spotted in the kitchen. Amanda might see the sneaky feline steal food now and then.

Over time Amanda would grow accustomed to the cat enough for her to even try an pet him gently and carefully. If he allowed that, she would try to share her food, which she usually barely touches, with him.

[DM Arrakeen]

A smiling, bright-eyed priestess visits with the children of the orphanage to speak to them, at Brother Ameris' request, of Beregost. Some will be meeting new families there, so to aid the transition the compassionate acolyte spends as long as necessary among the children, speaking to them with warmth and gentleness, answering childlike questions and making the acquaintance of the very little ones so they may know her face. She assures them that she will be in the temple in Beregost most all the time and that the families that wish to open their homes to the orphans are kind people.

After some time, toddlers seem to take a liking to the gentle priestess, trying to get her attention whenever possible. Alesea's presence at the small children wing of the Orphanage visibly helped the children to get to know her and even more so to split the workload between the caretakers.


Rumor has it that the Temple of Lathander in Beregost will be aiding Ilmatari in adoptions of some of the children by Beregost families.