Post/Author/DateTime	Post
WizO_Siani 10-06-03, 09:51 PM	The setting for this one is the Domain of Greyhawk and points south. It starts in the stableyard of the Crossroads Tavern at Ford Keep and ends, well, hopefully in the same place later on. Posting should begin soon.
WizO_Siani 10-07-03, 10:25 PM	* walks across the courtyard to the stables, pausing to look at the fading stars as the approaching dawn washed them away with a pink and rose blush. Smiling slighty, she turns and enters the stable, the warmth and heavy smell of horses and hay greeting her nostrils. Pacing along the stalls she pauses at one, eyeing the dapple-grey warhorse within* "Soon my friend. Soon we will be off together again. It has been overly long I know." *smiles as the horse nuzzles her in search of a treat, then pulls some apples and carrots from her bag, offering them one at a time to the animal.* "Fizzle sent those carrots. That was decent of him I think." *frowns momentarily* "It is a good thing we plan, necessary I deem. But it is dangerous. As deadly as any thing I have attempted before. Perhaps Simon in his worldly ways has seen worse, but I have not. A good test of my courage. And my faith." *with a sigh and smile, she turns and moves back out of the stable and makes her way across to the gate. Slipping through, she sits nearby, watching the ferry start its morning business and the ships that always ply the river.*
WizO_Simon 10-08-03, 11:26 AM	Simon Thorne moved quickly to the stables the moon well above the horizon. "Well, Twilight, We've got a bit of a ride home. It looks like we might be seeing a little action together sooner than I had previously thought." Simon soon finished saddling up the large dark stallion, and vaulted up into the saddle. With a slight kick in the stirrups the horse started on its way. Simon took the time to relax, and contemplate the events soon to come, trusting the horse knew his way home. It didn't seem long at all before the walls of Righteous Fervor were before him. The keep while not overly large was practical and served it's purpose. The thick stone walls as well as the battle trained acolytes and warriors provided the surrounding populace with a sense of security. The Steeple of the chapel rose high above the outer walls, a beacon of order in an otherwise unlawful place. Simon was not stopped as he rode through the gatehouse and over to the stables. Simon ensured the gates and the chapel doors remained open at all hours, for he never knew when the services of the church might be needed. Simon dismounted the horse and left him with the stableboy, moving swiftly to the chapel doors, he stopped before them. "Need to make sure the dining hall is ready for tommrow's guests." Simon made a mental note and moved into the large chapel for his evening prayer.
WizO_Siani 10-08-03, 08:25 PM	*moodily runs through the days' chores with no comment; sweeping out the tavern, changing the straw on the common room floor, ordering new stock, overseeing preparations for the nights' work, and keeping the books for the place* oO(Dinner at Righteous Fervor will be a welcome change of pace, even if it is overshadowed by what comes.) *frowns and shakes her head, then goes off and retrieves her arms and armor, making her way to the clearing and eyeing the pells, quintains, and rings there.* oO( Should have brought Stormwind. Quintain work would be good in more ways than one. However, the pells will do for the moment.) *sets to working out with her sword and other weapons, using the brightly painted pell as her target. She moves slowly and with deliberation, able at any moment to stop a given stroke without a quiver, working her muscle memory, hand-eye coordination and emotional control thoroughly. Working until she is soaked with sweat, she notes the sun settling in the sky and straightens.* oO(I'd best go get cleaned up and start over to Simons' keep.) *stretching as she goes, she returns to the Tavern to check up on the goings on, then goes to the Chapterhouse to clean up and change.*
Arathil 10-08-03, 11:22 PM	It is a solid fact, that wherever there be humans in this part of the Flanaess, there is a shrine to the Sun-Father somewhere to be found. Arathil draws some warm comfort from this fact as he kneels before the Shining One's symbol, and bows his head in prayer. o O (Should be the Father I send my thoughts to... Forgive me, Shining Father. I find my mind is wandering elsewhere...) *finds his thoughts roaming to the woods of his home, to his childhood amongst the thick forests of the Highfolk region, helping his father with the hunting and with his woodcarving... becoming not so unskilled with the craft, himself* o O (It wasn't all that long ago, really... Not so very long ago...) *Recalls his Elven tutor, her mastery of words that made everything she taught to him so clear... her mastery of the bow, which allowed her to aid him in his hunting expeditions. The other things... things, she was going to teach him, regarding the herbs of the wild places, the plants with medicinal uses, the way to speak to the birds and the beasts and even the trees themselves that grew so tall and strong...* o O (So many unanswered questions... choices made, for better or for worse) *There was the time his father sickened with fever during the long winter... Arathil used his tutor's teachings to procure enough food for the family, his own knowledge of where to cut and where to let the trees be to keep them warm. But it was the wandering knight Loyn, who possessed the knowledge and the faith which it took to save Arathil's father from his illness* o O (In the manor that wouldn't have been a problem... But life in Highfolk was hardly suffering... I don't even know why it was lost, in the first place... Or when, only that once it was ours...) *Stories of the monsters now inhabiting Greystone Manor, apparently now a fairly famouse locale in its own right, came with the knight to Highfolk, and he was quite amazed to find that Arathil's father was born in the place, an heir to the Greystone lands and title. As was Arathil... When it came time for Sir Loyn to depart and head to the south, he offered to take the youth, now approaching nineteen, as his Squire* o O (Leaving was the easiest, and the hardest thing I have ever done. But the right thing, I have always felt... Am I wrong? Was I wrong? Should I be here, should I be going south, should I never have left at all?) *His tutor merely smiled pleasantly at the news... her reaction to most things that did not come as a blatant thread to her or hers or to the lands about Highfolk and the creatures that lived there. "You will find your path, and find your way, and you will return here if it is to learn what more I have to show to you, and you will not if it is not to be that way. We all have our goals, and we all have our destinies, and fate may take an unexpected turn." She smiled gently, then; an unusual expression, which came as some comfort to the mightily torn young man. "Fear not, for I am sure that your path will not take you far from the principles I have bestowed upon you, seeded by your father and nurtured by the creatures you have both respected and hunted, by the trees you have climbed in and the grass you have lain in on hot summer days... whilst evading chores." She chuckled. "I will see you again."* o O (That was the last I saw of her... It has been scarce more than a decade and now I find, I may be ready to retake my family's ancient home from those things that now call it their own unwholesomely. I feel I have kept my respect for things wild and things free, yet tempered that with duty, honor, and obligation to the Sun-Father, the second father as she was a surrogate mother... He that Sir Loyn introduced me to, taught me of... Father, tell me now, do I do the right thing? Should I go to the south and lend your strength to that of Mayaheine and Cuthbert in the inspection of the black cancer that now spreads? Should I continue on in the night and seek to find the ancient home of the Greystones? Should I merely turn back... Blood, redemption, restoration, which is it to be?) *A shadow passes over the sun, and he looks up; then starts, and climbs swiftly to his feet. The golden orb looks down upon him, and all seems coated in shades of crimson as the face of the life-warmth of the world becomes a bright, blood red, as if the sun were setting through a haze of war, fire and blood and action that needed, however dreadful, however distracting, to be taken...* o O (I could not ask for a clearer answer, not if I waited a thousand years, I imagine... So this is it) *The young knight rises to his feet* "Another test..." Spoken quietly, "Another test, another quest, another journey... I grow, still, perhaps. Soon, then, I shall continue to find and reclaim what is goodly mine and my father's before me. Until then... I go south, and face... one of the darkest men to walk the Oerth in my lifetime." He smiles, faintly. "If this is a test of worth, I simply can't wait to see what's moved into the manor." The sun returns to its normal hue and all seems well and good once more, as Arathil girds himself for war and saddles his warhorse Fural. "Well, Fural... We've been companions, for some time. I hope you're willing to trust me on one more deadly, unlikely, vastly outnumbered quest, before we move on to claim our legacy?" The stallion's glare speaks volumes, before Arathil mounts and the two move off towards Righteous Fervor at a leisurely pace... lost once again in thoughts of four thousand or so yesterdays.
WizO_Simon 10-09-03, 09:25 AM	The Sun set over Righteous fervor leaving the illumination of the multiple torches along the walls and lining the road up to the keep itself. Simon stood in the courtyard, bronzewood cudgel in his hands as he thought on the events to come. “What could Robilar be up to? It is surely not in our best interest to allow it to continue.” A small woman with graying hair approached Simon as he watched the gate, awaiting his guests arrival, “Milord, The dining hall is ready and the boar is on the spit. Is there anything else you desire?” “No, no thank you. You’ve done quite enough as it is Sarah. May the Cudgel be with you, “ Simon returned to his thoughts as the woman hurried off back into the keep. Simon looked around as he waited for his guests to arrive, “There is a lot here worth protecting. May the Cudgel be with us all”
WizO_Siani 10-09-03, 01:58 PM	*She looks at her gowns and dresses with a touch of longing as she prepares to leave for Righteous Fervor* "None of that sort of pleasantry for some time to come, if I am not mistaken." *glancing at her reflection in a sheet of polished bronze which is not quite a mirror, she takes in the hosen, bries, linen shirt, pourpoint and padded gambeson. Slipping her feet into her well worn boots and settling her belt about her hips, she twitches a few things into place, braids her hair and leaves her cell" "A fine evening," she says as she notes the darkening eastern sky "though a touch of frost in the air, as it should be." *She crosses to the big dapple grey warhorse and strokes his forhead for a moment.* "This really isn't the sort of journey you want my friend, but it is a bit of exercise on a cool evening. Fear not! In good time you will be doing that for which you were born and bred!" *She mounts up easily, settling into the familiar shape of the saddle and taking up the reins with a smile* "Bear me to Righteous Fervor, my friend. It is dinner and good company I seek this night." *Lightly touching her spurs to his flanks, she guides him from the yard and along the road, watching the river traffic when she can and nodding greetings to the common folk she passes on the road.* oO( All is peaceful here, as peaceful as may be. Still too many signs of the wars. Too many people in need of protection. Great Lady lend me strength to do what I may for them!) *She passes along the road as evening deepens on the land, arriving in good time at the gates of Righteous Fervor. Seeing them open she guides Stormwind in and halloos the fortress* "Halloooo the Keep! I seek entry and peaceful speech within the Hall!" *She prances Stormwind about the courtyard, his shoes ringing on the flagstones as she waits for her host to greet her and give her leave to enter.*
Golddigger Dwarf 10-09-03, 02:54 PM	As the elegant woman rides up to the gates and waits entrance. Rocky the dwarf takes off his well-worn hat and speaks. “Well met me lady, I am the stable-hand, with ye permeation I shall take thy horse and give this fine animal water and oats.” He waits as the woman eyes him For those who knew Rocky’s past, they would be surprised that he had lowered himself to such a lowly job. Yet those same people would have heard the rumors, of his repentance. His need to atone for his sins, from his rather bloody fighter days as adventure, and thief.
WizO_Simon 10-09-03, 03:48 PM	Simon stands unseen in the background a moment as he was not aware the householder had hired on a new stablehand. He steps out into the open. "Greetings to you Lady Siani, and to you friend dwarf. I was unaware Sarah had hired a new stablehand. I am Simon Thorne, priest of St. Cuthbert, and the Inquisitor General of Ford keep. Also, current owner of Righteous Fervor where you are now working." Simon seems to remain somewhat perplexed but, waits for the dwarf's response.
Golddigger Dwarf 10-09-03, 07:19 PM	Rocky didn’t hear the master of the manor come out. He quickly gets down on one knee “Me lord thy did not know, because I have not applied yet. Forgive for stretching the truth Im still working on that part of my sinful self. In me head I thought ye would be impressed, if I did a good job with this mount; with the honorable lady who rides it, and give me the job Rocky lowers his head as he still is on one knee. “Please me Lord Simon, give me thy word that you will not cast me out from thy sight. For I seek to redeem me self, through good deeds and honest work.”
WizO_Siani 10-09-03, 08:17 PM	*looks down at the dwarf and nods as she reins Stormwind in, then looks at Simon and smiles as he greets her* "Good eventide to you Simon!" *hears the dwarfs' words to Simon and looks from one to the other with amused interest before dismounting.* "Interesting. I see your fame has spread far and wide such that you have workers who do the work before asking for the job." *looks at the dwarf speculatively* "Hmmm, an inventive way to gain work I think. Speaks of some wits perhaps. You're a dwarf, and that means hardy and capable of good work. Yes, an interesting and inventive technique you have devised master Dwarf." *looks to Simon* "It's your home and he's asking you, not me. Your choice. I'm more interested in warmth and food in the short term." *laughs with a twinkle in her eye.*
WizO_Simon 10-09-03, 08:42 PM	Simon looks to the dwarf somewhat Sternly, as if sizing him up, "As much as I don't approve of your methods, I have to admire your spirit." Simon takes a few moments to consider, "I could likely use the help, but you don't look like a stablehand. We'll see what you're good at, over dinner. Would you be willing to submit to a Zone of Truth as well a discern lies...just in case the former is not effective? Of course, my wife shall have to approve." "At any rate, let us get into the warmth of the common room until Arathil arrives. Siani, our stables are to your right. Feel free to any empty stall and any feed or tools you see fit, The stablehand I think is away for the evening." Simon leads the way to the large oaken door of the main building, holding it open for all the guests so that they may enter the tapestry laden well furnished common room. It has a few couches, coffee tables, as well as a couple straight backed chairs. A large fire is burning in the fireplace, providing illumination as well as fending off the cold. Every now and again a servant will move out one door and into another.
WizO_Siani 10-09-03, 09:00 PM	"My thanks Simon." *leads Stormwind into the stable, removing his saddle and rubbing him down, then measuring out oats and forking in sweet hay.* "Enjoy it my friend. I will see you later." *patting his flank, she makes her way out of the stable and into the hall, making a beeline for a chair by the fire.* "This is more like it!" *looks around the hall.* "Impressive Simon. Most impressive. What does Pou think of it?" *settles into a chair and rubs her hands before the fire.*
Arathil 10-09-03, 09:37 PM	o O (Perhaps a little late... but not over-much). Arathil rides up towards the open gates of Righteous Fervor. o O (Imposing.) *Thoughts drifting to Greystone Manor... Wondering what it might look like... Picturing it softer in appearance, but no less strong. More quietly imposing...* "Hail Watch!" Arathil reigns in before the gates, a bit more sharply than he had intended as his mind returns to the here-and-now, calling out a greeting. "I come for a meet with the lord sir; I am expected!" Barring any delays or other impediments, Arathil proceeds to ride on through and into the fortress proper beyond; once there, he dismounts gracefully, and looks about for a one to give him further direction. He has come bearing a large pack, over a traveller's worn green cloak; beneath he wears only a mail hauberk, his flaming Sun-Father's medallion, and his usual sword and axe.
Golddigger Dwarf 10-09-03, 10:56 PM	Rocky was taken by surprise at the lords words, the very least he thought he would be given several lashes for his deception. Certainly not eating at his table of all things. Yet here he was walking into this festive hall, with all its wonderful food. Rocky just had one question. “Me lord Simon tis not me place to question thee in thy own home. For I just be your humble servant Rocky, I can fights and rogue when need be. But what is Zone of Truth? Is it a drink or a pie?” Rocky gives an honest wide-eyed look at lord of the manner.
WizO_Simon 10-10-03, 12:08 AM	As the party arrives, Simon leads the party to the table and shows them to their seats, "A zone of Truth, My good dwarf, is a prayer that ensures that all within must tell the truth. Please have a seat and enjoy yourself while I say the prayer . Simon begins the prayer and ends it after only a few moments, "So Good dwarf, tell us about yourself and why you are here, as well of how you think you will be of use to a priest such as myself?" Simon takes a seat and looks towards Rocky.
WizO_Pounamu 10-10-03, 03:07 AM	The young woman ran along the path back to Righteous Fervor, brating herself in a foreign tounge. Pounamu had known about the dinner, even reminded herself, but it was so easy to lose track of time back in the garden of the house she had occupied with her husband for a year and a half before the Keep was completed. The cottage with its duck pond and fruit trees was what she had known as her home, a far cry from the Tower of Evengil in Juxta City or the Cross Roads Tavern in nearby Ford Keep. This new home of stone reminded her much of the authoritive Tower, or the castles where mages cast spells upon the worlds and their inhabitants... The watchman smiles in amusement as she darts across the courtyard and into the main building, bare feet almost soundless upon the stone floor. Just inside the door she pauses to run her hands through her hair in an attempt to bring the shoulder-length black mass into some resemblance of order. A quick-thinking serving girl brings over a bowl of water for Pounamu to wash the charchol smudges off her hands and face. A blush deepening her darkly "tan" skin, Pounamu lets the girl take her handful of drawings, resists the urge to wipe her hands on her skirt, and takes a deep, relaxing breath. . o O ( Oh! Is only few folk? This no is bad... ) Approaching from behind Simon, she hangs back for a moment until he finishes his prayer. Once he sits, she approaches to put a hand on his shoulder, nodding to Siani with a smile and castig a curious look at the dwarf.
WizO_Siani 10-10-03, 08:46 AM	*watches placidly as Simon executes the spell, enjoying the heat radiating from the fire.* "You have nothing to fear, Master Dwarf, unless you carry some darkness within you. All shall be equally constrained to be truthful this night." *catches movement behind Simon and smiles as she sees Pounamu approach and stand by her husband. Rising, she executes a fluid bow saying:* "I give thee good greetings my Lady. It seems this eventide things are reversed, for now I am but a guest and yourself the Mistress of the House. I thank thee for so graciously allowing us to intrude upon your private life." *smiling, and with a merry twinkle in her eye, she winks.* "What say you Pou? Do you like your home here? Many a noble would give much for such a place as this. " *resumes her seat and relaxes in the heat of the fire*
WizO_Simon 10-10-03, 10:30 AM	Simon looks up at Pounamu, "Glad to see you have made it, love." He stands and helps his wife into her seat beside him. "You know Siani, this is Arathil, and as for the dwarf we are still waiting for his formal introduction. Arathil, Friend Dwarf, this is my wife Pounamu, " Simon sits back down only after Pounamu has seated herself and returns to looking at the dwarf, awaiting his introduction and story.
Golddigger Dwarf 10-10-03, 02:44 PM	Rocky was sipping some type of fruit drink from an elegant mug, when the prayer was finished. He smiled and waited but did not feel any different. Then he heard a question asked and for some reason freely started talking about his name and his past. “Me name is Rocky I have traveled around for several years now. Those that I was with over the years, nay could not be called law biding. Nor decent in any sort of way, I have been on the dark side of too many fights and adventures. Blood is on me hands I been known to kill woman, men even those elderly folk, for a few coins. Tis a bad life but one day I be traveling with a bunch of goody goods. I didn’t be knowing at the time, I thought they is greedy like me.” He stops and takes a drink then continues. “I liked the girl Leetah, she was a good Cleric if there ever was one. She got me some how with her ways, and Kat another woman in my band; of what I thought was cut throats. Showed me friendship and loyalty. It be a strange thing for Rocky, who is used to killing over a bottle of Rum. I hates to say it but even that bumbling magic user Agudo and his lets love the Light this, and lets be one family, dung” Rocky turns a bit red from embarrassment .even with his red beard covering his face. “Sorry me ladies and lords I still be learning the good ways. Anyway Agudo and those lovely girls Leetah and Kat helped me to see there was more than blood and money. As far as me being any use to me Lord, I is a Fighter with hammer and axe. I also no the ways of a Rogue for trap setting and finding.” Rocky then just sits there not sure if he helped himself, or was about to be thrown out on his ear,
WizO_Simon 10-10-03, 03:51 PM	Simon's look becomes grim, "Do you truly seek Atonement, Rocky? Are you Truly repentent of your ways? and if so, would you submit yourself to a Quest to prove your worth and repentence. Mind you, it will not be easy, and you shall suffer great pain should you willfully stray from the path."
Golddigger Dwarf 10-10-03, 04:15 PM	Ye can count on Rocky me Lord, Thy ways will become me own. Tis killing ye be needing” The dwarf shakes his head “I mean saving the needy! I be ready for the goody good fight, just show me the evil head to crack open with me hammer.” The dwarf seems to be getting into this fighting for the good side.
WizO_Pounamu 10-10-03, 05:48 PM	Pounamu gives Simon's hand a squeeze as she sits, nodding to Arathil and the dwarf before turning to Siani. "Mmm? Ahh. I no is mistress of any thing, Lady Siani. You still is boss to me and this place still strange. It is like I living in a Guildhall, or guest complex of Castle Silvertears with The Lady mistress of Juxta. I knew time before, 'noble' folk like live very different to most other." Still, she grins. "Yet no worry. Even with many many folk work here, I still like work in Tavern. Is place I know. Was home, and Mista Beegee is good friend.... most time." Pausing to listen to Simon and Rocky, she glances around the table and back to Siani. "Umm.. please can tell? Who is big nasty man you is seeking for only watch?"
WizO_Siani 10-10-03, 08:55 PM	*watches and listens to Rocky tell his tale, arching her brows at his admissions of bloodshed and rough behavior* "Simon, if you can make this one repent and stay the course, that will be a real coup for you." *looks to Pou as she hears the question she knew would come* "Who is he?" *sigh* "Probably the single most dangerous mortal in the Flanaess and possibly all of Oerik. An evil man, though with a peculiar soft spot for adventuring types. He is called Sir Robilar and it is rumored that he is a member of the Lords of Sorrow. He is definitely a Discord of Hextor." *looks into the flames* "At one time he served the traitor Rary as his General. Things appear to have cooled between them in recent years and Robilar now has a keep away south and a bit west of the Selintan." *looks back at Pou* "Word has come through various means that he has of late been down in the Pomarj working on something for Turrosh Mak. Exactly what we don't know, but the very fact he does it for Turrosh means it is a threat to all in the area." *shakes her head* "It could be a construct of some kind, a war engine, or something else entirely. We do know Robliar is training the more disciplined of Maks' troops. Our purpose is to go down there and find out what he is doing while avoiding a fight if at all possible." *frowns* "We hope to return with solid information on Robilars' doings such that our various temples will agree to deal with the situation." *looks back at the dancing flames in the hearth*
WizO_Simon 10-11-03, 09:04 AM	Simon eyes Rocky for a few moment, "Very well, we shall meet in the chapel tommorowo morning after breakfast for the casting that needs to be done." Simon looks back over at Siani, "Well, that seems about the fun we'll be having." Simon turns his attention back to Rocky, "Well, it's Robilar. and we're going to spy on him. You do well, you'll be granted atonement. Fair enough?"
WizO_Pounamu 10-11-03, 09:20 AM	Pounamu nods slightly as she listens to Siani, clearly not understanding every word but enough to comprehend the danger. She considers asking more but as she glances around the serious faces (and the zealous dwarven one) she decides a change may be best. Touching her husband's hand softly, she rises and heads for the kitchen to have food brought. . o O ( Ae, is very dangered journey... No think have had time enough returned with my Simon for try come with they. Most like he think I distraction... Still, no is easy for accept have he with me time again and can lose so soon... )
Arathil 10-11-03, 02:04 PM	Arathil stands, executing a deep bow to Pounamu as the latter makes her somewhat breathless entrance. He then seats himself, once she has already done so, and upon the conclusion of the dialogue with the dwarf (whom he regards with a faint frown, but little else of any apparent significance), and of the subsequent conversation with Lord Simon's noble wife, coughs unassumingly, brushing the dust hesitantly from his traveller's cloak. "If we proceed as far as Safeton via ship, I should be able to contact my superiors there... They will have more information, it is guaranteed. What isn't guaranteed, will be the amount of puzzling and riddle-solving it will take to make any use of it, but in the end seeing them for advice has proven in the past to be worthwhile... almost all of the time." He frowns. "Assuming, of course, that travel by ship is a possibility... Dame Siani, you spoke of the Slavers' return..." o O (There's always something...) "That... would, complicate matters, but once we've pushed the borders of the Pomarj by whatever means I should be able to navigate us close enough to our destination that we'll be able to spy unobserved. Assuming, again, no interference from the Brotherhood or the Horned Society." o O (Can't get a reading on anything in that direction... when the question of late deals with a southward journey, the chits always come up woe... and the Circle says the stars foretell ill tidings) o O (Not that they've ever said anything different) "You've mentioned, also... Drow, and Gnoll rangers..." Arathil's eyes roll slightly as he focuses on ticking off items from a mental list as if he were preparing for a market day. "The eventuality may be reached that stealth will be called for from others than myself, and where ambush and catching unawares may be a necessity. If a large patrol of... anything... is encountered, and we cannot evade it, word of our presence brought back by survivors would be an eventuality... too dangerous to allow." He looks at Dame Siani, and Lord Simon, completely ignoring the Dwarf... o O (Somehow, I doubt he'd be much averse to the idea of an ambush...) "How... do you feel about that?" He coughs. "If such a potential is unthinkable... we would need to increase the distance between yourselves, and my foreward position, so that I would be able to return to you with notice of any oncoming threats that would require a wide berth... giving enough time to divert our course." o O (Can never really be quite sure what a Paladin will think...)
WizO_Simon 10-11-03, 05:18 PM	Simon Ponders Arathil's words quietly for a few moments, "If we chance upon a patrol, we shall simply have to deal with it. I am no wizard, but when it comes to calling upon the fury of the Cudgel I am no slouch. I have a few tricks up my sleeve when it comes to dealing with larger groups than ourselves." Simon pauses a few moments as if collecting his thoughts, "I am personally hesitant to have one scouting too far ahead unless we have some form of communication. We are not walking through narrow corridors and the potential for amush exists from all directions. The most I can offer towards the communication end is the prayer of sending. But it is very limited in the number of words that can be sent and returned." Simon sighs and looks at each individual at the table folding his hands before him, "I suppose, if Arathil were to scout ahead and check back every half hour to an hour at a fixed time. I could keep the prayer as a backup in case he fails to report in a timely fashion. At the very least it would be a simple way of knowing if he is alright."
WizO_Siani 10-11-03, 11:21 PM	*laces her fingers and purses her lips as she stares into the flames.* "Mmmmm, I am not at this time disposed to concern myself with gnolls or drow. They may or may not be a problem and I tend to place them in the latter category. However...." *pauses and frowns for a moment* " I do believe that there are enough wicked humans and humanoids to provide eyes and trouble aplenty. Even so, I do not think that simply being spotted is necessarily a sign to loose our fury nor to panic. Especially near the borders; there we will find the most chaotic of Maks' troops. They do squabble and fight constantly. The border there is in a constant state of flux. A band of warriors shouldn't stir up large amounts of comment if we keep our heads." *looks around at each of them in turn* " While I shall indeed go forth from here in full panoply, also will I pack away such trappings and don the garb of a simple errant knight seeking her fortune. It is not, strictly speaking, a falsehood and given the sorts it is intended for, I do not feel it is out of place. Our best defense from curious eyes is to look as though we belong where we are." *turns her eyes back to the flames* "A scout we must have betimes, no doubt. At far distance ahead I think not. Let me instead suggest this; that we stay together as a group on the plains where all can see well enough, but that we send scouts ahead at need in denser country. Communication should not be so difficult since I can use magic to command their return from up to a mile away." *looks to Arathil* "As for getting to Safeton, that may be dealt with already. Much more easily than by ship." *looks at Simon* "But we shall see. Arathil, it seems you have some knowledge of Safeton. If I might be so bold as to ask, how well do you know the town?"
Golddigger Dwarf 10-12-03, 12:25 AM	Rocky looks up from the chair that he is sitting at and responds to his new boss. “Yes lord Simon, I will be there on time for breakfast.” But before he could continue others started speaking of the coming quest. Some words filed with danger and intrigue. Rocky eyes the food and drink that is on the table. But even though he has to bite his upper lip, he holds off eating everything in sight. The hungry dwarf also wonders if the large cooked duck is for everyone, or will each guest get a whole duck. Then he hears the debate about scouting, and focuses back on the conversation. “Me ladies and gentlemen” The dwarf says rather proud of his choice in eloquent words. “I have heard thy words and see thou aret wiser than meself. I can see yer saying its better to stay in the group.” He thinks about his next words. “ But I have a bad reputation. Nay! An evil one. I may be able to walks amongst the enemy and not be suspected of spying, for thee righteous knights that some of ye are. I be saying is! That when we come to a place where ye want a dirty dwarf to infiltrate; just let me know,and I be doing it.” Rocky kind of sits there hoping that it was a helpful suggestion.
WizO_Pounamu 10-12-03, 12:29 AM	Pounamu returns, balancing plates in her arms as if back at the Crossroads of Ford Keep and two similarly laden women in tow. They move around the table and its occupants as unobstructively as possible, setting down steaming dishes of roasted meats, vegetables, warm breads and cheese in the centre of the table, empty plates and utensils nearby at the ready. Ensuring the jugs of drink still contain a good supply, the brown-skinned woman reclaims her seat by her husband's side, the others returning to the kitchens. She glances between Arathil and Siani, listening to the talk of spells and scouting and trying to place "Safeton" from the times she has gazed curiously at a map.
Arathil 10-12-03, 01:58 AM	Arathil ponders, slowly; "Not well, at all, really... I've been there before, twice, and once was on an emergency basis. I didn't have the time to explore the town. However, my Order maintains a chapterhouse there; my presence will be known almost as soon as I enter Safeton's walls, and there are not so many of us about as a new arrival should go un-hailed." He smiles, faintly; "It's not as large a gamble as it might sound, truly." He coughs. "I have some... skill, with the divining, and the augury; mine have been dark to me of late, foretelling bad omens. I believe them to be influenced somehow, beyond the true level of foreboding that we ought to be preparing for." He shrugs. "Also, I had been unaware that Robilar was amongst the ranks of these Lords of Sorrow, whose name I have heard only in passing rumor and legend 'til now. The phrasing of my castings, thusly, could have influenced the result; I would often inquire as to the dangers of going up against he and his." "My superiors at Safeton will be able to provide us with far sounder advice... and possibly a more detailed description of what is to come, than weal or woe. As to what else they might do to aid us..." He shrugs. "A great deal, or nothing at all. None outside of the reigning Circle know any great deal about that shrouded group's sources, and thus we cannot guess accurately at most of their reasoning." o O (A cohort... a squire, now. A second pair of eyes would be useful... Perhaps, I might petition the local temple at Safeton for one...) "Regarding our journey; I will be travelling lightly, but with means of travelling heavily, and carrying my heavier arms with me for the duration... just in case." He smiles. "My cloak will cover me."
WizO_Pounamu 10-13-03, 01:48 PM	Still seated quietly and attentively, she mentally begins to draw a picture of how this may go, what she understands of it. By her look of concentration, there's a few things she's striving to understand... Sighing silently and giving a half smile in general, she looks expectantly at her husband. . o O ( This is big thing. Yet food get cooler and mista dwarf look real hungering... No will invite he for take until time Simon say a thing. No wish for ruin. )
Golddigger Dwarf 10-14-03, 12:23 AM	The dwarf can see more food has been brought in, but he is trying to show good maners by waiting. "So boss about me idea, what-cha think?"
WizO_Simon 10-14-03, 09:08 AM	Simon looks around and then suddenly realizes nobody is eating, "I suppose I should allow a brief moment of silence for prayer and then we can dig in?"
WizO_Siani 10-14-03, 06:51 PM	*chuckles softly and grins at Simon* "Aye, food would be good, since some of us" *looks sidelong at Rocky* " look as though we've been fasting far too long." *murmurs a prayer before getting up and moving to the table* "Time enough for talk after the meal. I'm feeling a touch hungry myself. Thank you, Pou, for such a fine meal."
Golddigger Dwarf 10-14-03, 11:12 PM	The dwarf was willing to wait after the meal, to talk more about his great idea; or at least he thought it was a great plan. “Then I take it we can dig in” Rocky grabs some grub, chews loudly and messily. He then swigs down a large bottle of wine and burps. “Tis good food, I haven’t eaten like this since?” Rocky stops and thinks “ Well! Since went to that all you can eat and cortisone house of ill repute “
WizO_Siani 10-16-03, 10:09 AM	*settles back into her chair, a modest portion of food on her trencher and a goblet of wine at hand* "I suggest departing tomorrow then. We've each what we need as of the moment, I believe. We could depart at the midday mark and take our course in a leisurely way to start. I don't want to give anyone more cause than is needful to remark upon our bearing when we leave." *takes a morsel of food and a sip of wine* "What say you all?"
WizO_Simon 10-16-03, 11:48 AM	Simon takes a few bites of some food he served himself, "Well, I'm Ready. Rocky I think will be going along if he can get his things together. He might be useful in Pomarj, at least his knowlege of places of ill repute might give us an advantage, and as long as he behaves in a decent manner I've have no problem." Simon looks over at Rocky, "What do you say, Rocky? Can you be ready to go before you meet me in the chapel this morning so that we may perform the ritual?"
Golddigger Dwarf 10-16-03, 12:28 PM	The dwarf was using his tongue, trying to lick out the last drop from the goblet. But then lord Simon spoke about the trip. “Sorry me lord just enjoying the meal.” Rocky puts down the goblet and smiles. “Thou can rest easy Sir! For I carry everything I need with me at all times. Ye never know when a door needs to be open, with me thieves tools or an ugly troll be needing a hit on the head, with me hammer and axe.” Rocky then looks around. “Sooo when is the main course coming”
WizO_Pounamu 10-16-03, 06:55 PM	Listening carefully to the talk around her, Pounamu considers. Then, after offering to refil the dwarf's goblet, she rises and returns to the kitchens... She returns some time after with a tray of hot bread, half a wheel of cheese and a pile of fruit. Following close behind, two of the staff carry between them the roasted haunch of a cow on a platter. They set down these loads not within too easy reach of the dwarf, before the two return to the kitchens to start on replacing the foods that had been intended for some meals and travel supplies for the following day. Reclaiming her seat, the brown-skinned girl watches the dwarf curiously out of the corner of her eye...
Fairfeather 10-16-03, 11:28 PM	Myhnara leans back in her chair, laden plate in hand, feet resting on the table. She smiles slightly. Living alone most of the time does have it's advantages. The elf digs into her dinner, a simple meal of nuts, berries, roots, supplemented by a little rabbit stew. She finishes quickly, famished after a long day of hunting and guardwork. The Vesve Forest only seemed to grow more dangerous as of late... There comes pawing and growling at the door. She stands, smiling as she places her empty plate on the table and moves to open it, revealing a mountain lion, sleek and powerful. The creature nuzzles her leg, and she grins, reaching to scratch it behind the ears. "Good hunt, Cuhalli?" The panther licks its chops, purring in response. Myhnara chuckles, retriving a folded piece of paper from a pouch at her waist as she returns to her chair and pulls it up to the table. Sighing softly, she flattens the paper in front of her on the table, studying it...she already knows what it says, yet she reads it over repeatedly. She had recieved it this morning, a message, delivered by pigeon. From Arathil... Arathil...it's been, what, ten years? She shakes her head. Humans age so quickly...he'd be in his thirties now, likely changed so much from the whelp I taught not to trip over tree roots. She chuckles, one hand idly petting Cuhalli, who has settled at her side, cleaning one paw with her rough tongue. So he needs help... She frowns again. Strange he did not say why. Must be something big, though...else he would not have asked. Stubborn as ever, I see. Myhnara smiles again, then sighs. She stands, pondering what she might need to bring. Weaponry, of course: her favourite sword, Jilhaisil, the orc-slayer; the white longbow, Nilthas, strengthened with elven oaths; a quiver, said to be blessed by Ehlenestra herself; and finally, a few knives, strapped to a few surreptitious places. Her armour...a marvelous work of elven leathercraft, seeming almost to be a tunic of living leaves. Cloak and boots, also of fey make...a change of clothes, and other mundane supplies. Myhnara hoists her pack over her shoulder, and nods to Cuhalli, who follows at her heels as she leaves her house and locks the door, musing that it's likely redundant to do so, with all the warding-spells she's placed on her humble abode. She stands there, outside, in the woods...breathes in, deeply...and begins weaving a spell, to take her and Cuhalli there, to Ford Keep. Shifting through the trees themselves, as easily another person might walk along a road...
Golddigger Dwarf 10-16-03, 11:58 PM	Rocky smiles a toothy grin as more food is brought to the table. “Now we is talking” Rocky was just about to reach for some good old cow, when he saw Pounamu looking at him. The dwarf gives her a wink and raises his goblet to her.
WizO_Siani 10-17-03, 07:55 AM	*watches Rocky and laughs softly for a moment* "It seems our good dwur values the table you set highly, Pou." *smiles at Pou as she finishes her meal, getting up and setting the empty trencher on the table and pouring some more wine and watering it down a touch* "Well comrades, we depart tomorrow with the midday bell. We meet at the Ferry." *smiles, then grows more serious* "This is no simple thing we do. Some of us, mayhap most of us, may not survive this journey. However, we must ensure at least one does make it back to inform those in power of what we find." *pauses and stares at the fire* "I do believe something dark is being wrought away south, and if it is good for Mak or Robilar, then it is bad for us in any form. People are tired of war, and this I understand. But this does not mean the enemy sleeps or is himself tired." *looks around the room* "When have we ever known Iuz or his ilk to tire of their work? When has Robilar ever shown any sort of flagging energy? No, I am convinced that he is doing something best stopped now." *sips from her goblet and studies the liquid within* "One of us must return." *raises her goblet* "To a successful venture; may we all return alive and well." *drinks down her wine*
WizO_Simon 10-19-03, 08:49 AM	Simon raises his own goblet, "We'll all come back in once piece if I have anything to say about it." Simon grins at his companions, 'Besides, it could be worse. We could be dealing with Iuz himself."
Arathil 10-19-03, 10:06 AM	Arathil groans, at the mention of Iuz. "Aye, we could be... or Vecna, I'm sure he's lurking about somewhere." He raises his goblet to join with the rest.
WizO_Siani 10-19-03, 11:40 AM	eyes Simon and Arathil "Right, well on those happy notes I think it is time I were getting back to the Chapterhouse. I'd like a bit of sleep this night and there are still some details that need looking after." gets to her feet and sets her cup on the table, turning to look at the company "Tomorrow at midday, the ferry landing. I wish you all a good nights' rest and dreamless sleep." turns and walks to the doors, pausing there for a moment and looking back "We can leave Iuz, and Vecna, for another time. We've more than enough to deal with away south. Good night, gentlemen. Pou, thank you for your hospitality and the fine dinner. A good night to you as well." walks out side and after a few minutes the ring of iron shod hooves sounds on the stones in the courtyard before fading into the stillness of the night
WizO_Pounamu 10-20-03, 06:50 AM	Once Siani leaves, Pounamu automatically rises to clear the dishes left by the woman usually her boss. She seems lost in thought, efficient motions slowing occasionally as she pieces together what she has learnt into something she understands. A passing serving woman plucks the pile of dishes from Pounamu's hands during one such moment, the sudden change bringing the maori woman back from her musings. Looking around, she checks that the plates of food and vessels of drink remain on the table until those occupying it still are clearly finished of their own accord, herself staying near her husband.
Dorn_Stormhammer 10-20-03, 02:09 PM	: The powerful built, and tall for a Dwarf anyways, wakes to the sounds of his stomach growling loudly, and some loud noise coming from the stables pushing himself up from the bed slowly he nearly staggers as a wave of lightheaded dizziness passes through him causing him to nearly stumble, catching himself he touches his forehead lightly, trying to remember something, anything but his mind still seems to be a blank, he glances around the room he's being kept in, noticing the night sky, muttering to himself, he grumbles about being late to dinner, and stopping to comb out his beard, then braid it skillfully he looks himself over spying his armor he debates if he'd look better with it on or off, and then deciding as most Dwarves would that he'd look better with it on straps it on quickly the heavy weight feeling right to him, like it belongs around his body shifting his stance lightly, almost on instinct, he moves from the room heading to the common room of the Crossroads, glancing around at the empty tavern he grumbles loudly talking to himself. "Aye here I was looking to get meself something te eat, but it looks like it be a tad late in the evening for that. "
Arathil 10-20-03, 10:47 PM	Sighs, as the Paladin stands and makes her departure, waiting until the hoofbeats sound in the courtyard outside before standing up himself... "I had best be underway myself, I feel; Lord Simon, M'lady... *he bows, gracefully* The feast was magnificent, and I feel we accomplished much." He stretches... "I have some last-minute preparations to make; also, I await the companion of whom I have briefly mentioned. If all goes well... She will be with me, when we depart on the morrow." All said, Arathil makes his way towards the exit, with the intention of returning to the Tavern.
Fairfeather 10-21-03, 01:02 AM	Myhnara steps out of the last tree, a large oak in a copse perhaps three-hundred feet away from the inn itself. She stands for a moment with her lips pursed, eyeing the building, idly stroking the head of Cuhalli. After a moment, she turns her emerald gaze to the beast. "Stay here, my friend. I'll come for you later... until then, keep out of sight." The panther nuzzles her hand, before turning to move deeper into the trees. Myhnara gazes after her for a moment, then inhales deeply... concentrating, her very form seeming to shift and reshape itself... feathers erupt from her flesh, her arms lengthen, her features sharpen and change, until her body is not that of a slender elf, but instead of a large eagle, rich brown for the most part, but with golden feathers on the head and neck. With a short screech, she takes to the air, rises, circles the inn for a few moments... then, swoops, to perch herself on a particular windowsill... waiting for Arathil, tapping her hooked beak on the glass, should he arrive...
Arathil 10-21-03, 01:16 AM	Arathil mounts without difficulty, and with a new clattering of hooves he is on his way. It takes no great span of time for him to traverse the distance between fort and tavern, and soon he is back, stabling his mount in the tavern's own stables. o O (I do hope she comes... Sun-Father, forgive me. I feel a lingering sense of self-doubt when it comes to these talents, which I have not used for so long to such an extent... Even with the magic I have obtained to reinforce them, will they be enough for the task at hand?) The image of the sun, setting red, returns vividly and uncalled-for to his mind. o O (An unsettling omen of uncertain portent, Father... But, you graciously show me my path, and I am thankful... The light of the Shining One shall ever illuminate my way, and it will never fade, unto the breaking of the world...) Arathil enters the inn, and leans up against the bar... briefly... eyeing the golem. He engages it in a very short and quite one-sided discussion, for a time, regarding the nature of pride and modesty. After ordering up a crystal decanter of wine, Arathil pays for his purchase and carries the drink up to his room. The sight of the hawk at his window stops him cold, and nearly causes him to drop the wine. "What, in the name of... Can it..?" He leaves the question unspoken... and his sword loose in its scabbard... as he walks up to the window, and opens it gingerly, before stepping back. "Well, Myhn, if it's you... Please, do come in." o O (Can't think of too many hawks who would want into my room...)
WizO_Simon 10-21-03, 03:41 PM	After the meal Simon shows Rocky to the guest room at which he will be staying and then goes to bed for the night only after a prayer in the chapel., "Cuthbert be with us all on this task, that we might all come back in one piece."
Fairfeather 10-21-03, 03:55 PM	The eagle eyes Arathil for a moment, cocking its head in a curious manner. Then, with a friendly chirrup, it hops from the windowsill to the floor...pausing a moment, before beginning to shift in form, to something more humanoid; it is a few scant seconds before the eagle has been replaced by the elfmaid, Myhnara, who chuckles faintly at Arathil's surprise. Indeed, he has grown much... no longer a callow youth, but a man. However, he is not entirely changed... "I see you're remembering your manners, even to strange, feathered visitors." She grins. "Good to see you again, Arathil."
Arathil 10-21-03, 09:12 PM	o O (I feel like a little boy, in front of her... She hasn't changed, to look at, since I saw her ten years and more past... She has the look of one who won't change, to look at, for ten years, and twenty, and more still to come... How old is she, I wonder?) "Myhn..." Arathil shakes off his wonderings, and moves forward with a smile to embrace his former mentor. "It is good to see you again... I am sorry to call upon you only now, with such dire things ahead of me. I fear that I may require your help, in a venture the success of which I cannot foretell." With a smooth, slow gesture, Arathil reaches into a pouch at his belt, and draws forth two small chits of bone. Both are the size of the tip of one of his little fingers, and shaped like teardrops, colored white on one side and black on the other. Arathil whispers a few words that seem to vanish into the air as they emerge from his lips, and gently lets the chits tumble to the floor. They land, both of them, black side up, with the tear-points aimed southward. "Always, southward..." He shakes his head, his smile less now. "Myhn... I think we should go downstairs, and eat, and drink... And speak of things. There is... Much, I need to tell you."
Fairfeather 10-21-03, 09:35 PM	The elf watches, one eyebrow raised, just slightly, as Arathil casts his chits. He practices divination, now? Interesting... I wonder where he aquired such a skill... As Arathil informs her of the portent, Myhnara frowns, deeply, and turns her gaze to him. "Yes, I... suspected as much." She nods, slightly, moving to open the door, then striding out into the hall, her cloak billowing silently behind her.
Arathil 10-21-03, 09:51 PM	Arathil smiles, scouping up his chits... o O (We are not so dissimilar, perhaps... those like Myhn, of the path towards which I, was once slated... and the Stargazers. Do not both look towards the heavens for signs of what is yet to come? Perhaps we will aid each other... Perhaps I can learn from her, once again...) His thoughts thus pondering, the young knight replaces the tiny items within their pouch at his belt, and follows his newly re-discovered instructor out of his room and down the stairs into the common room of the Crossroads Tavern. He briefly wonders what to say upon the appearance of one coming down the stairs with him, who had never been observed heading up in the first place. Upon observing the crowd currently present, however, he decides that nothing about Myhnara is likely to attract any attention at all... He selects a small table, not in a particularly darkened corner, just empty and far enough away from the general conversation that nobody will pay any heed to their words. "Now... I imagine, Myhnara, you'll... probably be wondering, why I've called you here..." ...((This Matter)) To Be Continued in Live-Chat RP. Please Proceed with the Storyline :-D
Golddigger Dwarf 10-22-03, 12:13 AM	“Thanks me Lord “ As the lord of the manner shows him to his room, Rocky is more than ready for bed. He looks around the room for a moment then blows out the candle. “Yaaaawnn Time for bed” And a few minutes latter he was a sleep snoring.
WizO_Pounamu 10-22-03, 03:31 AM	While her husband pays his nightly visit to the chapel, Pounamu ensures the table is cleared and cleaned. The Keep workers endure this with wary patience - perhaps the lady does not yet trust them to do their jobs. There was much work to be done in the kitchens replacing the food offered additionally to the dwarf and packing new supplies into the cart expected to accompany the group to the border. Taking in the dwarf's capacity Pounamu had decided the kitchen should prepare the meat of yet another small beast for the journey and was surprised when the staff accepted but then promptly shooed her out. "Still..." she mused, switching to her native language in the privacy of her mind, "it is true that I would rather be at my warrior's side than attending the cooking fire, so long as it is assured that what is needed shall be done." Indeed she stays by her husband throughout what seems all too short a night, rising only once in the darkness to ensure that the supplies would be ready long before the appointed departure.
WizO_Siani 10-22-03, 08:39 AM	she walks in dark places lit betimes with roaring flames, burning and searing her. Through it all she sees a demonic visage laughing with delight Moaning she turns, but this brings pain which pushes her towards waking. *murmurs* "Ka'yn." with a start and muttered oath soaked in pain, she opens her eyes and slowly looks around her cell. Gradually the events of the battle on the previous night return to her with hard clarity *grates out* Baalodias, hellspawned bastard. I will have you, yes I will. It is not ended! exhausted with the flare of anger, she settles back onto her bed, breathing hard and gritting her teeth against various aches and pains; still very present if not nearly so bad as a few hours before *mutters* "This puts a most annoying kink in things." she begins to slip back into healing sleep, murmuring a few more things as she fades "Foolish, aye, my lady. But..necessary. Leaving....tomor..." regular breathing replaces the murmured words to someone only she could see
Jenwyn 10-23-03, 08:14 AM	*Rising from her prayers, she genuflects before the image of the Shield Maiden before turning and leaving the Sanctum. Entering a corridor, she paces along until she comes to the cells which house the monks and knights in service to the goddess.* oO( Maiden grant me the strength to do what must be done. Guide me in the succour of your servant.) *Pausing before a door, she glances around at the priests and acolytes who have followed in her wake, nods once, and opens the door. Stepping in, she looks at the poulticed figure on the bed, noting the singed hair and blistered skin with sad eyes* murmurs softly "Thou art most seriously afflicted, Daughter. Yet it seems I have been brought here in time, as the Maiden wills. He was a foe beyond your power. For now." *Turns to the priests and acolytes behind her, looking at their expressions for a moment* "Go you now and prepare! We must begin at once to defeat the evil in her body and give our Sister rest. We will begin an hour before the midday bell." *Looks back at the knight on her pallet before turning to go* softly "Abide with it yet a little longer. Relief is coming." *Leaves the room to prepare for the lengthy process of healing to come.*
WizO_Siani 10-23-03, 06:34 PM	slowly she awakens, awareness and memory returning and making her wince. After a moment realization that the pain is much reduced. Turning her head she realizes she lies upon a straw pallet on the floor, surrounded by a ring of candles. Turning her head again, she sees the statue of the Maiden looking down upon her oO( How did I get here? What has been done?) rasps "Well, lying here will get me no answer. Up with you girl!" with effort, expecting pain that doesn't come, she pushes herself to a sitting position, looking around more intently oO( The Sanctum. They must have tried something that needed sacred space. Where is everyone, come to think of it?) gets to her feet with some difficulty, feeling wobbly and uncertain though determined. The Sanctum around her remains empty and silent mutters "I wonder how long I have been out of my senses. However long, I can't stay here. There is work to be done and my tavern to see to." carefully she steps across the line of candles, pausing for a moment as if expecting something, then slowly moving away down the room to the doors "I'll find everyone later. I need some air. Whatever they did has helped, I feel far better than I did, though nothing like I ought to."
WizO_Siani 10-24-03, 08:08 AM	Finishes breaking her morning fast and cleans up after herself, noting with pleasure the splashes of color in the room as the sun streams through the stained glass windows oO(It is good to be hale, if not entirely whole again.) Absently runs a finger along the scar on her jaw, eyes hardening a bit. Shaking her head in resignation, she moves out of the room and into the courtyard, nodding to the monks and knights she passes along the way oO(Time to be off. I need this, Maiden help me, I do.) Greets the various folk of Ford Keep as she wends her way through the streets to the 'Roads, keeping an eye on the heavy freight wagons already rumbling along the River Road. oO( Simon should be here soon enough. I hope Arathil and the others are prompt. Time is against us here.) Enters the stableyard of the 'Roads and smiles at the attendant, handing him some orbs as she notes Stormwind saddled and ready, caparison bright in the sun. Pausing, she feeds him a carrot and pats his nose, muttering quietly to him. "It's time my friend. We are off this day. While I do not yet feel entirely myself, still we will away." Glances around the stableyard again before going through her gear and checking the packhorse and palfrey.
WizO_Simon 10-24-03, 09:23 AM	Simon looked over the group of eight soldiers critically, “Today we leave for Pomarj. Robilar is up to something and we are to find out what it is. This could possibly be a dangerous mission and if we’re to survive there is to be no loafing. Every order from Cedric, Siani, or myself must be executed with perfection. You know I will accept no less. May Cuthbert be with you. I will meet you all at the stable yard in Ford Keep once you get yourselves together. You have 2 hours. Go go go!” With that Simon mounted twilight and road off to Ford keep himself. He rode fast this morning, not the leisurely pace that he normally took. There was business to be done. , and he was ready to get it over with. Simon soon found himself in the stable yard perhaps just a little surprised to not be the first to arrive, “Morning Siani, I trust you’ve slept well. We’ve got a long day ahead of us it seems.”
Drekath 10-24-03, 09:32 AM	The flind wakes up bright and early from his room at the Roads, then gets himself ready rushing down the stairs to where he kept his supplies. Looking at the two kegs of goblin Thudrud and the hanging deer carcass, he developed a plan. He made a loop in the rope the deer was hanging from he tied a sack around it then hung it about his neck, and with his long arms and inhuman stregth lifted each keg onto one of his shoulders then walked out to the stableyards. Grinning to See Simon and Siani already there. Drekath sets the keg's down where indicated and unpackages the deer and offers it to Siani, "I brought yous a dead deer to help feed us on the journey" With that, he drops the carcass in front of her, then after looking around for a few moments, "Er...where is I to be? I don't have a horse."
Simon's Soldiers 10-24-03, 09:37 AM	Cedric, Aron the cleric and six other men finally rid up to the stableyard heavily armed and ready for battle. Cedric dismounts his horse and moves over to Simon and Siani, looking at Simon, "We're ready my friend. We ran through a few more drills since we had a bit of time."
WizO_Siani 10-24-03, 10:53 AM	Looks up at the sound of a horse entering the yard and smiles at Simon "Good morn, Simon. Good to see you bright and early. I have slept...as well as may be expected. " A slightly gaunt look and slumped posture illustrate her fatigue. She turns as Drekath speaks to her and looks at the dead deer and two barrels, then back to the flind. "Good morning, Drekath. Good to see you ready. Good thinking, to bring venison for the party. As for where you will be, I think it best for now that you handle the cart. When the time comes, we will make other arrangements at need. Stow your gear, if you please. I would away soonest." Turns as Cedric and company clatter in and waves to them before turning, donning her helm, and mounting Stormwind "We have only to await Arathil, the Olve, and the Dwur. But not too long will we abide." Lets her shield hang from its guige strap and takes up her lance, setting it to rest in the socket by her right stirrup, and laughs with pleasure as Stormwind dances sideways and snorts with impatience
Arathil 10-24-03, 06:52 PM	Arathil is next to appear, riding into the courtyard at a swift pace. o O (Siani... No surprise there... Simon, well, Cuthbert's folk have always been out to make anything a challenge, including waking up. Drekath... and the thudrud...) Thoughts of the strong, foul-smelling goblin liquor put a faintly amused smile on Arathil's face, which is smothered at the last instant as he joins up with the company. "Your pardon, for my late arrival; I was kept overlong by my devotions, allowing my mind to drift to other matters long passed." He looks around, reigning in his horse. "I look forward to this little venture. I feel it will be good for growth in all aspects." o O (And for shrinking, if Mak's folk still use those great-axes... Where is Myhn?) The young Sentinel looks about, faintly disconcerted at the lack of his only recently re-located mentor.
WizO_Siani 10-24-03, 08:40 PM	Turns her helmeted head to look at Arathil, reining in Stormwind as she does Good morning, Arathil. You are not overlate, yet I will abide only slightly longer for your friend. We must away and that swiftly. I will admit, I look forward to the road again, though not so much to what lies at the halfway point. Turns about in the saddle, looking to see if she can spot any of the others still absent
Fairfeather 10-25-03, 01:33 PM	Myhnara arrives soon after Arathil, though from a different direction...fully armed and armoured, though curiously, unmounted. She gives a friendly nod to the company in general..though when her eyes settle on Drekath, she stiffens with a low hiss, her hand going instinctively to her blade and drawing it forth with the gentle chime of elf-forged steel. "What...exactly, is a flind doing here?!" Myhnara growls, but manages to stay her hand, if only because nobody else seems to be hostile towards the creature. She holds her blade in front of her, every muscle tense, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice...
Drekath 10-26-03, 01:30 AM	Drekath blinks at the newly arriving lady, "I am Drekath? Want Thudrud?" With that he grins a cheesy grin.
Golddigger Dwarf 10-26-03, 01:54 AM	Rocky wakes and runs down to the stables. “Me lord! Me Lord am I late? Have ye a mount for me? Rocky puts on his backpack on his shoulders and puts his axe near his side. He looks around for his master.
WizO_Pounamu 10-26-03, 01:32 AM	Pounamu looks over in surprise at the dwarf running around the stables. Excusing herself from the chat she had been having with the gatesman, she hurries over to the dwarf. "Mista Rocky! You should have been with men of my Simon, and they left much time ago!" Catching the attention of the current stablehand, she manages to direct the lad into readying the first horse she sees for the dwarf. While the restless horse is being saddled, she slips away to the kitchen, returning with a package of cheese and bread that she presses into Rocky's hand. "Could be Simon is still at Cross Roads Tavern. Hurry, or will have need chase warriors all way to border!" She waits until the dwarf scrambles aboard the tall steed, then points it in the right direction and gives it a firm slap on the rump... :angel:
WizO_Siani 10-26-03, 04:10 PM	Looks at the Olven woman and moves Stormwind to a spot between but to one side of the woman and Drekath "Put up thy sword, lass. Drekath is under mine own protection. He hath taken sword oath in service for this journey. Thou shalt accord him civility, if not trust." Glances around the stableyard at the others "It is time and past time we should away. To the ferry and across the river. Fortitude within, Valor without!" Paying no further heed to the Olven maid, she motions to Drekath and spurs Stormwind out the gates and down the rutted road to the ferry landing
Fairfeather 10-26-03, 04:55 PM	With a frown, Myhnara scabbards her blade. Strange... though no business of mine, if she sees fit to take this... creature under her protection. I shall watch him carefully, nonetheless. She gives a quick mental command for Cuhalli to follow the party, keeping out of sight... then, with a sigh, begins a transformation, into her familiar eagle-form. She takes to the air with a few flaps of her broad, powerful wings, closely following the group around fifty feet above their heads.
WizO_Simon 10-26-03, 05:08 PM	"Men, Fall into Formation! We are soon to Ride. Cedric, I leave them in your hands. You have been a good friend to me throughoout the years, " Simon takes off after Siani, moving the large black stallion up to her side. "My Lady, the plans? Er, you haven't happened to see Rocky anywhere have you? He was I sent the servants to wake him, they must have had a hard time of it. Though I'll bet Pounamu'll set him straight." Simon grins and keeps pace with Siani.
Simon's Soldiers 10-26-03, 05:11 PM	Cedric makes sure the soldiers get into formation, "Foward!" The mounted men fall into two lines of four behind Siani and Simon.
Drekath 10-26-03, 05:24 PM	Drekath pushes the wagon foward, guiding the animal with natural ease muttering on about different thoughts, "Is lonely life to be an outcast from ones people. Not likes I gets acceptace anywhere else. Is constantly having to defend myself from peoples who would attack on sight simply because I am a flind. At least Siani understands and trusts me. Is probably the only friends I have. Well Arathil is nice too, but I don't knows him very well. Hmm...maybe some day I will find someone who will teaches me how to flirt since Dontella will not. Still is waiting to see payoff on her teachings of....people skills."
Arathil 10-26-03, 06:52 PM	Arathil rides up on his own companion-mount, a massive heavy charger. He then moves up to one side of the cart, and keeps pace with the party, lost in his own thoughts... although he does occasionally glance upwards at the eagle following along behind the rest. o O (Some squirrel is in for a very unpleasant surprise...)
WizO_Siani 10-26-03, 10:00 PM	Turns her head to look at Simon, letting Stormwind find his own way "We will cross the river first. Once on the further shore we will move south of the road for a small distance, there halting to check our gear, outline our path, and......give the Dwur an opportunity to catch us up" Laughter echoes from the helm as she turns to look forward again
Golddigger Dwarf 10-27-03, 11:13 PM	Feeling a slap on the rump or was it the horse? :smirk: Rocky takes off after his master. “Yhaa mule faster!” he charges through the gates and out into the fields beyond. “Blast ye and yur drinking the night away” Rocky chastises himself for over sleeping. After about a day of hard riding he sees a group of riders ahead. “Is that ye master? Tis I Rocky” He says as he gallops towards the leader. “I said Is it ye?”
WizO_Siani 10-28-03, 08:52 AM	After meeting Lady Jenwyn at the ferry, accepting her message and blessing, and then crossing the river, she leads the company south a ways to a small dell off the riverbank. There she halts and advises everyone to check their saddle girths and gear one last time. Telling them they will await the Dwur while they do this, she also prepares to lay the plan before them oO(Warduke. An unexpected hazzard. We shall try to avoid him.) After seeing to her own gear she turns and looks upriver, deep in her thoughts though alert to anyone coming towards the group
WizO_Simon 10-30-03, 06:52 PM	Simon rides up beside Siani, "So, what's on your mind, my friend? Morale is good, the men are ready and I don't forsee too many problems we can't handle." The large black stallion twilight huffs softly as Simon gazes off in the same direction as Siani.
Simon's Soldiers 10-30-03, 06:54 PM	The eight men wait patiently on their horses on their horses, not even a whisper to be heard among them.
Drekath 10-30-03, 07:00 PM	Drekath moves around the wagon checking the axles and such making certain that it is up for possible rough travel, he looks up towards Siani, "When is we leaving?"
Fairfeather 10-31-03, 12:19 AM	Myhnara lands, gracefully, folding her wings as she does so... then begins to flow back into her natural shape, with a soft sigh... she glances about, blinking faintly as her eyes adjust from those of an eagle to her more familiar elven vision. She eyes Drekath thoughtfully, perhaps somewhat warily, for a moment, then sits at the base of a riverside willow, leaning against the trunk of the tree in a relaxed manner. Her gaze wanders over the general surroundings, alert, but calm.
Golddigger Dwarf 11-01-03, 12:46 AM	Rocky trots up to the group, of horse men. "Tis this the riders of Simon? I be Rocky, does the master have orders for me?":confused:
WizO_Siani 11-05-03, 11:05 AM	Stirs and glances at Rocky, then at Simon "Ah, just thoughts of what lies ahead. My Prioress, Jenwyn, whom you saw me speak to ere we crossed the river gave me word that Warduke has been seen where we are going. We must avoid him as best we may." Reins Stormwind about and motions to the group "Mount up, we ride south for half a day. Once there, we will be using magic to cover the needed distance swiftly." Spurs Stormwind off along the riverbank, heading south