The second story has a total of 12 private rooms and 1 common room. In the middle of the common room is a round fire place. Each private room has a straw bed.
The right side of the pub is a small stable. Capable of housing approximately five horses.
Staff:
Marroc Brambleburr - (Bartender and owner). A halfling of little stature, standing just over 3 feet tall. Appearance wise, he looks to be 35 to 40 years old. His eyes show otherwise. If working, Marroc sits behind the bar on a halfling size stool. He is usually smoking a pipe. His mood appears to be pleasant, but he is suspicious of anyone who is new. While not behind the bar, he is in the back room. No one goes in but him or with his permission. The door is locked and usually guarded by a rather large and angry looking half-orc. (If Marroc is not on, assume you have been served by Billa or Wealdy).(Player NPC)
Grack - (Guard) This is the half-orc guard that stands by the door leading into Marroc's back room. He never leaves it as far as anyone knows. If approached, whether kindly or unfriendly, he simply growls. His large axe and many battle scars tell you he is not someone to be trifled with. Click HERE for Grack's Portrait.(NPC)
Billa - (Barmaid) A small mean spirited Gnome woman. She waits tables and is the only barmaid there. She is sarcastic and doesn't take nonsense from anyone. It is usually best just to make your order and not worry about conversation. (NPC)
Wealdy - (Bartender) A tall, thin human. Not too bright, but he is very friendly and always has a smile on his face. (NPC)
Piper - Stable boy. Eager to please and even more so when given a tip. (NPC)
Price List (all prices are per person):
Rooms:
Common Room (1sp per night), Private room (5 sp per night), Stables (2cp per night )). Horses (2sp per day (including feed).
Food:
Breakfast 1sp, Lunch 2sp , Dinner 4sp.
Drinks:
Water (2 gp), Ale 1cp, Mead 5cp, Spirits 1sp, Dwarven Spirits 3gp, Wine (common) 5sp per bottle.
Information: priceless
*Brodda enters the building and immediately finds a small table near the back where she might think. After several minutes, she is served an ale, which she takes and nurses very slowly.*
.oO(What woould the Motherr have meh do? A good question. Use meh talents, surrely. Ah'm Lorremistrress to meh clan -- and to the worrld.)
*She smiles at the self-important thought, knowing it to be self-important but not caring.*
.oO(Ah seem teh be good at inferrmation findin' too, given rrecent experrience. But Ah'd rratherr steerr this toown towarrds rreal justice than simply go aboout fact-findin'. Hmm...)
*She ponders on that for a moment, remembering the conflict between the Strikers and the Tattered Rose Gang. She finishes her drink and orders another as she continues thought-wandering.*
.oO(Zan's storreh is a good example of justice... Ah coould rreworrk it a bit teh brring it morre teh the point and do rreading's all acrross the city... it woould be easy enough teh worrk into song, too.)
*She takes out her notebook and begins writing, crossing words and sentences out, writing again. Occasionally, she mutters a part of her writing or sings a piece -- usually while looking past Grack to Marroc's office door, her focal point of the moment.*
.oO(Ah rreally need teh get to the marrket tomorreh.)
*...lights it then, after a few initial puffs, she picks up the paper and goes over her notes. As she reads, her smile grows bigger. Then, she slams the paper on the table with a grin on her face, and orders up another ale and some dinner.*
"Meh dearr, Ah'll have some rroast rrabbit, biscuits, and whateverr veggies the cook has prreparred!"
*When it arrives, she pushes the money plus a small tip to the waitress and, with a smug look, begins to eat.*
.oO(Ah didn't rrealize how late it is. Orr is it earrly? *grins* Whateverr.) :D
*After a moment of thought, she opts to just sleep till morning right where she is, rather than trudging back to the boarding house at this hour.*
[OoC: Thus ends the night.]
.oO(Well, that was pleasant.)
*She stands, stretches, and twists then sits to order breakfast.*
.oO(Afterr which Ah need teh get cleaned up then find a good spot teh be tellin' stoorries frrom.)
*Soon breakfast appears before her and she starts to eat.*
Billa "Well well, now what do we have here eh?
Kai turns around to face the familiar voice with cold eyes. Billa frowns as she looks upon his dark demeanor
Billa "We charge for room and board" *looks at Kai's torn and battered clothing* "So you might as well as leave"
Marroc...
Billa stares at Kai for a moment, then nods. After Billa walks away, Kai takes a seat at his normal table in the corner
Grack seems to grip his axe a little tighter as Marroc goes.
"Welocome ta moi place boyo. Don't moind Billa, things 'ave been a little jouimpy around 'ere fer the past few days. Seems a loit o' people think that with the jackals outa town that the guards 'ave got there 'ands to full ta keep the peace properly."
"Ya weren't plannin on causin no problems were ya me boyo."
Marroc gives Kai a firm but friendly smile.
I must ask you a question...in private
Marroc motions for Kai to lead the way to the room, and then shuts the door behind them.
"What's yer question then, me boyo? "
The Strikers Guild...
"What about them? Oim going ta assume yer not askin what they are. Oim thinking you must know that or ya wouldn'ta asked, now then would ya 'ave?"
How can I contact them?
"That is if ye done soimethin ta get there attantion."
"If ya don't moind me askin, what do ya need ta contact them about?"
"Oi aint troin ta get involved in yer buisness or anythin loike that, but it 'elps ta know, so ya know what arm of their organization ta contact."
"It aint just one big group, they've got their 'ands in everything."
*clenches his fist*
get my revenge
"Revenge? Well Oi 'aint one fer tellin people 'ow ta live their loives, so Oi won't."
"Oi'll see what Oi cin do fer ya, me boyo. Oi know a few people 'oo know a few people if ya git moi meaning. But it moight take soime toime."
"Oim sure they'll be wantin ta foind out more about ya before they make contact."
"Are ya sure its worth that to ya me boyo?"
He takes the gem none the less and carefully pockets it.
"Loike I said, it moight takes soime toime. An if ya foinds them, or they foind you, before Oi cin set soimethin up Oi'll get this back ta ya."
"Ya cin stay here till then, but Oi'd suggest the Fox Boardin House, personally. Not that moi rooms aint noice, but the rooms there are better fer gettin yerself noticed by the roight crowds."
Marroc moves towards the door and holds it open.
"Oi'll be troin ta 'elp ya me boyo. But Oim not sure 'ow much Oi cin do."
[Elsewhere]
Billa "I assume you want some food too eh?"
*turns toawrds the stairs*
Billa "I'll have it sent up...
*walks to his room*
[Elsewhere]
*Brodda enters the establishment and looks around, deciding where to seat herself. She sees Billa milling about, wiping down tables and serving a few patrons. She notices Brodda standing at the door and gives her customary scowl. Brodda shrugs and spies a nice, empty table against a wall, sort of in the shadows. She seats herself there and gingerly touches her bruised eye.*
.oO(What a clutz Ah was! But Ah felt so bad aboout the damage teh the hoouse, and Mrs. Weatherrby so angrry with meh... the worrld just sorrta spun outta contrrol ferr a minute.)
*She sets her hands on the table and looks at the cuts on them.*
.oO(And noow Ah've brroken herr shelves and a set of dishes as well! Ohhh, how much is this day gooin' teh cost meh?!)
*She winces at the memory of the dishes falling on top of her.*
A few minutes later Marroc ambles out of his office, and lights up his pipe.
He climbs up behind the bar and puffs away.
"Hey therre, barrkeep. How's a girrl get a drrink arroound herre, eh?"
*She places a yellowish coin on the table and pushes it towards him.*
"Well, thats one way lass."
He ducks under the bar and reappears with a mug of the good stuff.
"Of course another good way is ta 'elp solve the murder of the cities best brewer."
He drops the coin and slides it back towards her.
"With oll the troible that's been 'appening 'ere in the city as of late, its good ta know soime things get roighted."
.oO(Ouch.)
*She takes the coin and tucks it back into her pouch.*
"Aye, it is indeed good teh knoow that soome wrrongs cin be made rright."
*She takes a long, slow pull from the tankard. When she sets it down on the counter, no pain in her face can keep her from smiling.*
"Ah thought Ah might continue worrkin' teh make things rright, too. Ah've got a hankerrin' teh find out morre aboout who's involved with these Strrikerrs."
*She takes another drink of ale, sets down the tankard, and looks at Marroc.*
.oO(At the moment, Ah doon't imagine Ah look any betterr than he does.)
*She almost chuckles at the thought.*
"Well Oi'd lbe careful if ya poke around in the Stroikers affairs. Not even moi ol friend Daron 'Aldor 'as 'ad much success in doin that."
"An 'E's a public figure. Its a little 'arder just to make 'inm dissapear then it would be you."
His frown lessons slightly.
"Though if ya really want to do a little investigatin into them, Oi've got another friend o'mine doin that roight now. Though fer different reasons then you Oi'm sure."
"Ya could try ta keep an oiye on 'im. 'E's not easy to miss unless 'e knows yer lookin. "
"Oi wouldn't be to ungrateful if ya were ta accidently foind out what 'e's up too."
"A public figurre is also easierr teh see comin', meh frriend. One such as mehself might have betterr success findin' inforrmation than yeh'rr frriend Haldarr."
*She listens with interest as Marroc speaks of this other friend.*
"A frriend of yeh'rrs, eh?"
*She chuckles*
"And he's lookin' into the Strrikerr's, yeh say. Currious."
*She fidgets with her tankard as she considers.*
.oO(A "frriend" of Marrroc's who is seekin' inforrmation on the Strrikerr's, and ol' Marrroc doesn't knoow why. Sounds verry intrriguin'.)
"What cin yeh tell meh aboout this frriend. What's his name, wherre's he live, what's he said to yeh?"
*She grins a grin that she hasn't grinned in weeks.*
"But 'e is easy to recognize. "Es got a strange mask on these days. Ta 'ide soimethin thats happened to 'im."
"Oi suspect thats whoi 'es lookin ta join the Stroikers."
"To get revenge fer whot ever 'appened to 'is face."
"'Es a dangerous one so be careful about approachin 'im."
.oO(No name, no descrription otherr than he wearrs a mask. And Ah doon't see too many of Garric's citizen's gooin' arround wearrin' masks. Shouldn't be too harrd teh follow him.)
"What aboout wherre he's stayin'? Orr wherre he spends his time? Ah need teh locate him teh find him."
*Unconsciously, her eyes trace back and forth one of the creases on the barkeep's face.*
"Oi'd keep an eye on both places. Particularily 'ere. The beers better."
He smiles,.
"An the bartenders better lookin Oi'd bet. Of course that aint sayin much, seein as 'ow they're aint one there."
"Shouldn't Oi be the one starin at you?"
*She blinks then blushes, only now realizing that she'd been staring at him.*
"Ah wasn't starrin', Ah was thinkin'."
*She smirks at him and finishes off her ale.*
.oO(Let's hoope Ah'm gettin' betterr at tellin' false tales. What was Ah dooin', lookin' at him like that? Ah...)
*She stops and blushes again.*
.oO(Worrk. Think of worrk.)
"Well, if Ah'm gooin' teh become invisible, Ah shoould prrobably stop beeblin' with yeh, and go sit soomewherre inconspicuous."
*She slides off the barstool and, making herself focus on looking for someone wearing a mask, she returns to her table and waits quietly.)
He wipes his hands on his dish towel and sets to work cleaning his favorite dirty glass.
.oO(Well, Ah haven't seen any masks yet. Perrhaps Ah'll step ooutside and see what therre is teh see. Therre's always the Fox Boardin' Hoouse teh locate.)
*She pays her tab and, giving Marroc a smile and a wave, she heads out the door.*
[to Elsewhere]
*pulls his hood over his head and insures his scarf still covers his face*
Keeping his head tilted downward, Kai scan the room. Stopping his eyes on Billa, he notices that he's recieved her attention. Realizing that Kai watching her, Billa frowns and makes her way to the office. As she enters the office, words part from her lips and Grack slightly nods
After a quick scan of the room he moves towards Kai.
"Did ya check inta the boardin 'ouse Oi told ya about me boyo?"
Not yet...
*looks at marroc from under his hood*
A person like me wouldn't fit well.
Kai stands up and turns from Marroc and begins to walk towards the door
Marroc "The Fox Boarding House...check it out me boyo"
Kai reaches the door and exits the inn
[Elsewhere]
.oO(It's been so long...)
*she looks at the patrons and walks up to the counter and smiles at Marroc*
"Well Lass Oi aint seen ya aroind 'ere in awhile. Woird around town was that ya 'ad died. Nice ta see yer fellin better."
Yes I'm feeling much better. I just got back from being away for a while.
*she sits at the bar*
So how has business been treating you?
"Been gone on a long trip ya say? Oi guess ya 'aven't 'eard then?"
Heard what?
"Its a shoime that she didn't 'ave soime one more responsible ta 'elp 'er, what with ole' Kywyn out ta the war an all."
"Yup, its a roight shame that."
Some one stole Dak? Did she find out who it was?
*she pauses for a moment*
.oO(Blue bell boy? Who could that be?)
And what's this about Kywyn being at war? Last time I saw either of them they were just moving into their new apartment. I had left town shortly after that, so I'm a bit out of sync with what's been happening around town.
*she orders some wine and a meal while she talks with Marroc*
Marroc looks at Anaya.
"It weren't long after they lost their dog, that Kywyn volunteered ta 'elp the Jackals in foightin the orcs."
"Oi 'aven't got any proof, but Oi think losin ' 'is pet must a been a big stress on 'im. Thats not the koinda rthing Kywyn would normally do."
"An whoile 'e was gone, NaShae 'ad 'Ermys wife move in with 'er ta keep each other company whoile their 'usbands were out playin 'ero."
"An not much longer after that, the boy was taken boi NaShaes family. Seems they wanted 'er ta marry the new ambassador, an figured black mailin 'er was the best way ta acomplish that."
"Obviously they don'yt know 'er that well. That lass aint as soft as she seems."
"She set out ta get 'er boyo back with all the 'elp she could gather."
"Moind you it weren't much. Oid a sent Gtack with 'er, but a 'alf-orc aint the best choice ta be sendin ta tailk ta elvish nobles."
.oO(I left a note for them to let them know where I was going..I didn't think I would have caused this much trouble...)
*she nods to his mention of Grack*
Yes having a half-orc go into any elven community, noble or not would be a bad idea.
*she looks up at him*
So what all do you know about this "pet" of theirs? I don't usually see Shae with any other animal besides maybe Palasha.
And has anything else been happening in town besides what has been going on with Shae and Kywyn?
"What do you know about their lost pet? Thats a better question isn't it."
Marroc takes a big puff from his pipe.
"Well there was the tournement, and of course the wedding. But not much 'as 'appened. Everythings been slopw due to the war an all."
Nothing gets passed you does it Marroc?;)
Actually I know more about their pet than one might think.
And I've noticed that it has been unusually quiet when I came back into town.
*she takes out the black pearl in the linen and opens it again to look at it*
You haven't seen Kai around by chance have you?
*she looks up at him*
Marroc frowns.
"Oi 'aven't seen Kai since last toime 'e was 'ere with you."
Oh..it isn't like that. Something has just been troubling my mind as of late. When Kai left..he left a note..but it was very awkward how he had written it.
Something about he had to leave and it would be best that I didn't go looking for him, and if I did see him, that I wouldn't recognize him and that he would find me.
He had a bit of an argument with a friend of mine before...I just hope he didn't get himself into trouble.
*she looks at the pearl*
And I have been having these strange dreams as of late...all having to do with darkness, Kai and this place.
*she covers the pearl with the linen*
I think he's back in the city and he might be in trouble.
*she shrugs then pauses*
The one part in his note..about not being able to recognize him...what do you think that might be about? He always covered his face with a scarf...
"I'd spend soime toime thinkin about the part that says don't troiy an foind 'im."
"'E's got 'is reasons fer that Oim sure. An yer troin ta foind 'im could endanger 'im if 'e is in trouble."
"'Es a smart boy. 'E cin 'andle 'imself."
I know that. I just don't want to see him hurt is all.
*she smiles*
*when billa comes up with her food and wine she drinks and eats then pays for her meal*
I'd also like room Marroc. I'll be staying in town for a bit and this is the best place I can think of.
*she hands him the money for the room and takes the key in return, placing the pearl back in her side pouch*
Thanx for the talk Marroc.
*she smiles and heads up to her room*
*she sets her things down and plops onto the bed staring up at the ceiling*
.oO(If you are back in town I hope you are doing ok....)
*she closes her eyes and eventually falls into a trance*
Return now, Ascarer.
*she blinks and gets out of bed, grabbing her pack and cloak before leaving the room*
*she locks the door behind her and heads down the stairs and leaves the inn*
To Elsewhere
*she walks inside and heads upstairs to her room*
*she opens the door to her room using the key and locks the door behind her*
*she throws her bag on the bed and picks up her unfinished bow and runs her fingers along the carvings she started in the wood*
*she smiles as memeories of Cas run through her mind*
*she sets the bow back down against the wall and lays back on the bed and takes out the black pearl, removing the cloth and looking at its black surface*
After laying back for a while, rummaging through her thoughts she sits back up and places the pearl back in her bag. When she picks up the bow she looks at the carvings that she has made thus far in the wood and thinks on what she wants to add.
After a short while of contimplating she figures out what she wants and pulls out her dagger and begins to work on the wood.
She works on the bow for a couple of hours, noticing it is well after dark when she puts down her dagger.
She cleans up the shavings from the wood and sets the bow aside and climbs into bed, letting the energies flow as she changes back into her wolf form and then falls fast asleep.
Present
After waking in the morning she sits in a corner of the room and meditates for several hours, then looks out the window and notices the sun is setting
.oO(Days pass by so fast.....)
She closes her eyes and lets the energies flow once again changing back into her elf form and grabs her things before walking out the door, locking it behind her and heading downstairs.
She sits at a table and orders something to eat, pays for her meal then heads out into the city, lit by the night sky. She lifts the hood of her cloak to conceal her face as she walks down the street
To Elswhere
*He jumps through the door, a big grin on his face. He runs towards the stairs waving at Grack as he passes.*
"Is Alissa stills her! Ise back from savin the city, an ready ta finish my honetmoons!"
*He doesn't wait for an answer, but bolts up to the room where he last saw her.*
*He finds it empty.*
*He knocks on a few doors loudly calling out for his wife.*
"Hey! Snugglekitten! Yer Hermykins is back!"
*Before he gets far Marroc climbs up the stairs and calls out to him.*
Marroc:"'Ermy me boyo! Stop that! Yer bride aint 'ere! She llefy ta go 'elp ole Kywyns woife while 'e was away foightin."
*Hermy stops knocking on a door and looks to Marroc.*
"She aint here? But we wasn't done hav... She wents ta stay with NaShae? I guess I'll hafta go there ta get my welcome home kiss then."
* Hermy grins while Marroc nods and motions for Hermy to follow him downstairs. He pours the hero an ale.*
Marroc:"Oi gotta a bit o'bad news fer ya though me boyo. Kywyns wee boy was taken. Yer woife an NaShae went ta get 'im back...Before ya ask, it were NaShaes family that toik the lad. Oi don't think 'es in any danger. But Oi don't think they've got back yet. Ya moight 'ave ta wait a bit ta get yer kiss."
*Hermy can't decide to frowm or smile so he alternates between the two.*
"Well its gunna be hard ta waits, but ifen youse ever kissed Alissa youse woulds knows it worth any wait there is."
*He takes a big sip of his ale and wipes some foam off his lips.*
"An I think its fer a good cause. Gettin Kywyn Jr. back to his parents is a pretty important thing to do. It's very heroic of Alissa don't ya think."
"Ise glad to see her actin all brave and stuff. I was afraid that she'd never get fully betters afters what Kirby dids to her."
*Marroc nods along and wipes his glass.*
"I hopes that they didn'ts go alone. Ise been teachin Alissa how ta fight, but she aint good enough ta protect NaShae too good yet."
*Hermy smiles.*
"Course they can't have gotten into any real danger just goin ta NaShaes moms. Shes an elf queen, they probably had ragers an stuff makin sure NaShae got there safe an stuff. Her parents had ta know she was comin seeing how theys the one who stole Kywyn Jr."
"I won'ts tell Alissa that though. I wants her ta think she was as heroic as I is."
*Hermy finishes off the ale, and puts down the empty mug.*
*He gives Grack and Marroc a wave and heads out the door.*
"I better get backs ta the guild an waitsa fer Alissa ta gets back sose she cin tell me all about her heroic deed. I'll even ask Minto ta writes a song about it!"
"Ifen she shows up here lookin fer me, let her know where Ise at!"
*Hermy dashes out the door and heads for home.*
After a nice walk at night, a mysterious stranger and some fresh air at the park she enters the inn and orders some food, then heads up to her room, locking the door behind her
She sets the plate of food on a small desk than gets undressed and ready for bed then eats her dinner, setting the empty dish to the side.
She lays back in her bed and works on her bow some more before falling asleep, letting the energies flow, changing her form.
She sleeps for a long while and when she wakes, she meditates in her wolf state and after several hours of meditation, she changes back into her elven form and dresses.
She picks up her cloak and her pack and sets out of her room, picking up the empty plate on her way out the door and setting it on the bar for Billa to take when she gets the chance.
She walks out of the inn and lifts the hood.
.oO(Maybe I should go see Natala...I haven't been by to see her for a very long time..I wonder how she is doing)
*she sets down the street and towards the park and Natala's*
Tell Marroc im here...
Billa " Now whos do ya thinks I am!!!"
Without a word, Kai turns and walks towards the private gambling room. He gives Grack a side glance while he passes him and enters the room. Leaning up against a wall he grips his dagger and awaits Marroc
"Well, me boyo, Oi'm understandin' ye've decided ta pay my Billa's wages, then, eh? Since ye be thinkin' ye cin boss her around..."
Do you have the information...?
"Hey! Grack? Have you seen Hermy? "
"I'm afraid he may have done something stupid once he heard his wife had been killed."
Grack does not respond.
Minto nods his thanks.
"Tell him I'm looking for him if he shows up. Thanks again."
Minto hurries back onto the street.[/i]
"Yer moight be wantin' ta let loose of yer little knoife there me boyo. Grack doesn't take koindily ta people 'oldin weapons near me."
He takes a puff from his pipe.
"Oi don't either fer that matter."
Marroc moves and takes a seat.
"Did ya check out the Fox boardin 'ouse loike Oi told ya too? "
"That's where ya kin get yer information."
He puffs on his pipe again.
"Though Oi would be even more careful about troin ta intimidate folks there with yer little knoife."
"They aint got moi sense o'omour."
__________________
Minto Newberry. halfling B
It's not intimidation...
*takes a step back and leans up against the wall*
I will never make the mistake of trusting anyone again.
Kai looks down and pull back the hood and lowers the scarf revealing his mask. He turns his head and looks at Marroc.
This is trust..in it's finest.
*lowers his hand and looks up at the ceiling*
Why does the Fox Boarding House have the information I need?
Marroc raises his eyebrow and looks up at Kai. The elf raises his scarf to conceal the mask and pull his hood back over his head
Well see.
*walks towards the door*
Tell Billa I apologize.
Kai makes his way out of the inn but not without recieveing a frown from Billa before exiting
[Elsewhere]
*Brodda enters the bar and, as usual, looks around to see who's here and where she might sit. Billa's working the tables and snapping at people, per the norm. Grak's sitting in his customary place beside Marroc's door.*
*She grins*
.oO(Ah wonderr if Ah kin make that crreaturre twitch orr soomethin...)
*She walks casually up to Grak and leans on the corner of the bar.*
"Hey therre, Grrrak! How have yeh been, lad? Ah haven't hearrd yeh telling storries aboout yeh're hoomeland lately."
*walks into the inn and takes a look around the room*
.oO(Same as usual)
*she gives a nod and a smile to Billa as she runs from customer to customer and heads up toi her room, locking it behind her*
*she sits on the bed and undresses, laying her things to the side of the bed and lays back and closes her eyes as she lets the energies flow, returning her to her wolf form*
*she wakes in the morning and works on her bow for a bit before meditating and then changes back into her elf form, dresses and heads downstairs*
*as she enters the common room she notices a familiar dwarf talking to Grack*
*she stops for a moment and watches the dwarf*
.oO(Hmm..the dwarf who asks to many questions...what was her name again? Broody? Brodda? Ahh yes..Brodda..I wonder if she is still on the wolf hunt?)
*she quirks a sly smile as she sits at a table*
Marroc does though.
He steps out of the gameroom, puffing n hs ppe.
"Well lass, Oi didn't know ya 'ad a thing fer moi boyo Grack. Maybe Oi should tell 'im ta take a noight off so the two o'ya cin 'ave soime privacy."
He laughs again, and ambles behind the bar drawing two ales up almost immediately.
"What brings ya in taday Brodda me lass?"
"Hey Marroc! Ah was just trryin' teh give yeh'rre boy herre some interraction. Seems he just isn't interrested."
*She laughs and climbs up onto a barstool.*
"What do yeh feed him, anyways?"
*chuckles*
*She glances around and sees a face that she didn't see when she came in.*
.oO(Musta been who Ah hearrd behind meh.)
*She takes an ale with a grin and tastes it immediately.*
Marroc chuckles, and then adds "Though 'e 'as a fondness fer chickensoup that 'e picked up soimewhere."
"Weren't from me though. Oim a stew man moi self."
He takes a sip from his ale and scans the room quickily the pausae he makes on Anaya not noticable,, noting everyone in it, and making mental notes.
"Are ya still on the 'unt fer moi friend?"
"Ah 'bumped' into him today, yeh might say."
*She chuckles*
"Interrestin' mask he wearrs. And quite a temperr too. He's made contact at the Fox Boarrdin' house wherre he was inquirrin' aboout joinin' soomethin. Ah was shooed away quite effectively beforre Ah coould see orr hearr too much."
*She pauses for another swig of ale. Then she looks at Marroc.*
"Do yeh think Ah coould have soome o' that stew yeh werre talkin' aboout? Ah'm a bit famished."
*takes his hand again and walks to the bar*
.oO(Looks like he's busy with the bard. Should we get some tea until he's finished??)
The two take a side table and sit and watch. Facing each other, they can communicate anything the other is missing behind his or her back.
Marroc shakes his head.
"O course ya don't, what was Oi thinkin. A well bredd lass loike yersel eatin alone. We both know wot a shame that would be."
"Oi'll be roight back."
Marroc heads off into the kitchen waing at Kyynas he goes..
****************************************************
Billa approaches Anaya.
"Are you going to order sometbing or are you purposely taking up one of my tables so I can't earn any tips to support my kids with?"
She scowls slightly at Anayas teacup.
“I’ll go talk to a real customer and let you think about my poor starving children for awhile.”
Billa hobbles towards NaShae and Kywyn.
“I hope you plan on buying something. “
"Could we get two cups of water, please?" Kywyn asks.
"Of courrse Ah doon't mind, yeh silly halfing."
*She watches him head into the kitchen. When he's gone from sight, she turns again and see's more faces.*
.oO(Aye. Ah rrecognize that pairr frrom the otherr barr.)
*She chuckles at Billa's manner, then smiles and waves at NaShae and Kywyn.*
*Her gaze settles on Anaya for a moment. But only for a moment, then she turns back to her ale.*
He looks to NaShae, "I remember her, I think. What was her name again?... right."
Kywyn keeps an eye on the comely dwarf.
marroc offers a quick apology and then sets the bowls down on the counter.
"Ya met moi friend then did ya? Yeah 'e is an interesting fellow."
"But Oi learned whoiy 'e wears that mask. Lets just say its better then the alternative."
"'E foinally made it ta the Fox did 'e? Oi sent 'im there awhile ago but fer soime reason 'e skulked around 'ere instead of goin there."
"Ya say he talked ta soimeone about joinin soimething? It wouldna 'appened ta be a fellow about moi 'eight would it 'ave been?"
***************************************************
Billa returns with the waters and slams them on a table.
"That will be two gold."
She casts a look back towards Marroc.
"Unless he's giving you a discount... again."
She scowls at Kywyn.
"Ohh that looks good, Marroc!"
*He sets a bowl in front of her and the odor wafts up into her nostrils, when she inhales deeply. Her eyes close with delight.*
"Smells good, too!"
*Her mouth is watering, but she lets it be so it might cool a bit.*
"Aye, he met with soomeone and..."
*She smiles wickedly at him when he describes Mundavai.*
"...yeh knoow who he met, doon'tcha! Fess up, lad. Stop hooldin' oout on meh!" :D
*She laughs then looks at the barkeep, her eyes alight.*
"I don't think so, but even if he is..." Kywyn hands her two gold pieces.
*before she can say anything Billa stomps off and she shakes her head and sighs, enjoying her tea until Billa makes her way back to her table*
*she notices the quick glances from Brodda and also that Kywyn and Shae didn't notice her there when they walked in*
*she stays quiet and collect and waits for Billa to return, making her order and reminds herself to give a decent tip, just to lighten Billa's spirits a bit*
*while she waits for her food..she keeps Kywyn and Shae in her view from the corner of her eye*
"Oi just wasn't sure 'e was the one ta talk too, now Oi am."
He smiles and takes a spoonful of stew.
"Ya did a good job lass."
He takes another spoonful.
"Ya moight want ta moind yerself now though. The people moi friend went ta meet are known ta 'ave tempers loike 'is on occasion."
"Oi doubt yer in any danger. Oi woulna 'ad you a spoiyin on 'im if Oi though ya would be."
"But be careful anyways. That's always good advice."
*********************************************
Billa takes the coins and scurries away to berate another customer who finished his soup well over a minute ago, but still has the nerve to occupy a chair.
"Ah'm not done therre yet, Marrroc. Therre's soomethin' aboout that halfling that... nags at meh. Soomethin' aboout his voice..."
*Her voice trails off as she hears it again and a chill runs down her spine. She shakes her head.*
"Who is he?"
Then she wanders away grumbling loudly about cheapskates.
"Oh! What a big tipping crowd we have here today! I might be able to afford that cracker my littlest one was pleading for last week."
***********************************************
Marroc frowns slightly.
""im? He's a man that goes boi the name o' Collio Mundoval ."
'E runs a very profitable buisness."
"Makes moi little place look amauterish.
.oO(I guess she's not having a very good day
)*she takes another drink of her tea and then begins to eat her food in silence*
.oO(How do I approach Kywyn and Shae in this form without making a scene? )
*she picks at her food abit as she thinks*
"Mundavai..."
*She shakes her head again as nothing happens. She begins to eat her stew. When she looks up at Marroc and sees the look on his face, she smiles.*
"Doon't worry aboout M--"
*She stops as she realizes that's not what she wants to say.*
"Noo. Doon't stop worryin' aboout meh. Ah kinda like it."
*She smiles at him again and takes another bite of stew, quickly followed by more ale.*
"But Ah've got teh be meh. And rright now that means findin' oout why this Mundavai tickles the hairrs on the back o' meh neck."
He chuckles and takes a nother mouthfull of soup.
"Just moind yerself lass. The cities already one beutiful woman less these days, Oi'd hate ta see it become two."
He looks towards Kywyn and NaShae and frowns as he eats another bite.
"A thing forr halflings, eh? Ah suppose it woould seem so."
*Brodda frowns*
"'One beautiful woman less'? Marroc, who...?"
*She follows his gaze to the pair from the LLI.*
"Ah'm keepin' yeh frrom tendin' teh business. Go ahead. Ah've got meh stew and ale teh finish."
"Ole 'Ermy Woodhomes new woife went outa town with NaShae over there. She didna make it back."
"Tell Wealdy ta get ya soime o' the good stuff once ya finish that one."
"'E knows you're allowded."
"An if ya need more stew feel free ta go back an get yerself another bowl. Don't moind Billas grumbling."
"I'd better go see what me boyo Kywyn needs."
Marroc hops down from behind the bar and heads towards Kywyn.
*************************************************
""'Ow are ya doin there Missy? Oi 'eard what 'appened on yer trip and 'ow 'er sister reacted."
Marroc frowns slightly as he talks to NaShae and then turns to Kywyn.
"An 'ow are you faring? Oi 'eard about yer littlew foray into the army as well."
Kywyn glances to NaShae, then back to the innkeeper, "We really don't mean to treat you like an information service, but we have some leads and were wondering if you had anything you could add."
"We've heard that something is taking an unhealthy interest in our boy. Naturally, we're trying to find out if it's true and how to put an end to it."
"Also, you've heard about Hermy's wife. Her body is being held in a magical repose while we try to acquire the money to help her... There is a chacne she can be brought back from the edge. If you had any ideas we could pass along to Hermy, it'd be appreciated."
Kywyn takes a breath, then adds, "Finally we have a few potions and scrolls we're willing to part with if it can help raise money for the girl. I was wondering if you had any interest or know someone who would supply a good price."
"Herrmy? Isn't that Minto's frriend? The herro?"
*She shakes her head with sadness for her friends.*
"A shame it is. Thank yeh, Marroc."
*She focuses on her stew and ale as he heads off to speak with the others.*
.oO(Mundavai... now just teh find oout what it is aboout yeh that botherrs meh so.)
*She accepts Marroc's offer of more stew and heads into the back, ignoring Billa's complaints. Then she moves to the table with the lone woman. Brodda smiles.*
"Helloo. Mind if Ah join yeh?"
No..not at all..please have a seat.
*she offers her the chair across from her, keeping Kywyn and Shae within her view*
"I noticed how nice yeh seem teh be. Farr to nice teh be stayin' herre long."
*She chuckles as she sets her bowl on the table and begins to eat.*
"Meh name's Brrodda."
Marroc is a good friend, plus the place is nice a quiet.
*she smiles*
Nice to meet you Brodda...though I'm sure we have met before..though on different circumstances.
*she continues to smile as she takes a drink of her tea, a sparkle in her eye as she sets the cup back on the table*
The name's Anaya.
*she smiles and take another drink*
"Met beforre, have we?*
*She looks closely at Anaya's face.*
"Ah doon't rrememberr yeh, and its rrarre that Ah forrget a face."
*Her scrutiny reaches Anaya's eyes.*
"And Ah cerrtainly woould not forrget yourr's. Such lovely grreen eyes."
*Brodda smiles and resumes eating.*
"It's a pleasurre teh meetcha, though Ah doon't knoow wherre we mighta met beforre."
Thankyou.
*she takes a bite of her food*
I can never forget a face and one as beautiful as you is hard to forget, but I must say that I wasn't my normal self when we did meet..
Anyway I'm glad to actually be able to talk to you on better terms.
*she takes another bite and glances over at Shae and Kywyn*
"Yeh werren't yehrrself? Werre yeh feelin' ill oorr soomethin'?"
*She tries to remember meeting this woman but is unable to do it.*
"Ah'm terribly sorry."
*Brodda is looking rather unhappy with herself.*
Is there something wrong Brodda?
"Ah'm an enterrtainerr and people arre meh business. It rreally hurrts meh business if Ah goo arroound forrgettin' people Ah've met."
"Well if yer sellin potions an scrolls, ya moight want ta try the Hightower. It's just the sorta thing those spellflingers there fancy."
"I don't normally hold with cavorting with their toype but in this case it 's fer a good cause."
"Of course ya could also troy the Mystic Shop. Oi believe yer friends with the owner aint ya? She moight be ablw ta get ya a good proice fer them."
"An if it's money yer lookin fer, Oi wouldn't suggest openin an inn."
He chuckles uneasily and nods to NaShae.
"Or workin in one."
He stops laughing .
Marroc looks around the room uncomfortably and nods towards Brodda and Anaya.
"Ya could troiy askin the elf over there about a good way ta afford comin back ta liofe... Last thing Oi 'ad 'eard was she was dead. An then she comes skippin back in 'ere orderin tea an such. Poor Billa 'ad ta go out o' her way ta foind somethin ta mix with the water to gives it a teaish taste."
"Oi really should start stocking things loike that. Oi 'ave nop idea wot Billa used. An fer an information broker loike me thats a wee bit scary."
He chuckles uneasily again.
"Well, ole 'Ermys a 'Silver Sword aint 'e? That guild he's in was formed fer adventuring, an back in my day we adventured fer our money."
"Thats the most reliable way ta get coin fast that Oi know of."
"As ta wot Koind o'adventure ta go on, well, Oi'll talk to a few people an see wot Oi cin foind."
"An the same goes fer yer boyo... Though Oi don't want ta get yer 'opes up too much there. iOi've been lookin inta that since the wee boy was first taken."
"It took me more toimew then it shoulda ta even foind out that it was yer parents 'oo took 'im last tiome."
"It seems no one wants to talk about yer boyo to moi usual sources."
"Oi'll keep troin though. Oi 'ave a few ideas Oi cin troiy out. Oi've got one friend Oi aint troid yet."
"But 'e's 'ard ta get 'old of."
"It moight be best ta get a crackin on that now."
"Oi'll get back ta ya if Oi foind anything."
Marroc nods at Kywyn and NaShae and excuses himself.
He waves towards Brodda and whispers to Grack before slipping into his office.
Grack sniffs the air, and points at Wealdy and then the bowl of stew Marroc did not finish.
Wealdy takes it away, and those who know Grack well can see him relax slightly.
Well I can understand that, but I'm sure it will come to you in time.
*she pauses*
So you are an entertainer? What kind of entertainment do you provide?
I met a man who was an actor yesterday..went by the name of Lucian. He was a quiet fellow but a nice man none the less.
I also have a good freind who is a singer for the Jackals... Ashina..such a sad story that one is..
*she runs her finger around the rim of her glass as thoughts of Lan run through her mind*
I don't think Ashina ever got over what happened. She has such a beautiful voice and used to be a regular at the Last Lich..well until she lost Lan..
*she shakes the thoughts from her mind and tries to give a quaint smile to Brodda..to at least lighten the mood*
*Brodda perks up and smiles. Until Anaya mentions Lucian. Her smile falters for a brief moment only.*
"Yeh met Lucian? Yes, Ah met him today mehself. Verry nice indeed. Said he might trry teh find meh a singin' job with some o' them highbrrow folks in the norrth end of toown."
*She finishes her stew and sits back. When Ashina is mentioned, Brodda looks sharply at Anaya.*
"What do yeh mean, sad storry?"
*She gets the nastiest feeling that she knows the answer.*
.oO(Higher ups? Hmm....)
*she lowers her head and a sadness comes over her*
Yes. She had lost her lover and mate to a horrible halfling by the name of Kirby. We at first we thought he was just missing, but then we found his owl and that's when we knew something was wrong...
She wanted so bad to find him and to know what was wrong and I offered to help her in any way I could. So we set out to find him, but what we found was more than she could bare.
A bunch of wild dogs were fighting over a corpse outside of the city and I went to investigate..but what I found...
*she goes quiet*
Lan was tortured, stabbed and buried alive..something that haunts me to this day. The stab wounds suggested that someone that was very good with the dagger and I had only seen one person who could use daggers like that...
His name was Kirby..Kirby Woodhome...
*she takes a drink and notices Marroc look in their direction as he talks to Shae and Kywyn. She then turns back to Brodda*
Well eventually we were able to get him into custody with the help of some friends of mine and Shina's, but I haven't heard anything about Kirby ever since. I assumed he got what he deserved for the act and I visit Lan's grave often.
*she picks at her meal*
.oO(Kirrby Woodhome? Isn't that Herrmy's last name?)
"That is a terrrible, terrrible storry indeed."
.oO(Too terrrible forr a ballad? Hm.)
*She thinks about that in silence.*
That it is.
*she continues to finish her meal in silence, occasionally glancing over at Shae and Kywyn*
*once he leaves, she squeezes Kywyn's hand and turns back to him*
.oO(The dwarf's name is Brodda, I believe. Remember, she wanted to write a song about us? But she's been looking for information, so I'm sure that was not the reason she wanted to talk to us.)
*reaches out and brushes her fingers down his cheek with her free hand*
.oO(It worries me that nobody is talking about Dak. If they didn't know anything, wouldn't they just say??)
*sighs softly*
.oO(Should we stop by the Silver Sword to see if Hermy has any idea on where to adventure for the money?? In any case, I'd like to leave now. I'd rather not talk to Anaya. I'm still not convinced that leaving her alive is best.)
*eyes narrow and turn cold for a moment*
*shaking it off, she leaves a couple silvers on the table and grabs her pack*
*stands with Kywyn and walks out of the inn quickly*
[to Elsewhere]
.oO(What sense does it make teh go all the way back to the Mrs Weatherrby's when therre's perrfectly good beds upstairrs?)
*She thanks Anaya for her company and her hopes that they may chat again soon. Then she goes to the bar and tells Wealdy that she'll be needing a room for a few hours. She hands him some coins and he hands her a key.*
"Thank yeh, lad."
*She sleeplily heads upstairs, finds the room, locks the door behind her and tumbles onto the bed, falling immediately to sleep.*
.oO(Mmph. Ah wonderr what time it is.)
*She stretches, stands, and stretches again. She scratches her shoulder, reminded of the burn she suffered there not long ago.*
*She grins.*
.oO(It was worrth it teh brring down Merrcerr!)
*Rearranging her skirts and bodice into the proper place once again, she looks at herself in the mirror and grimaces.*
.oO(Ah need a good bath. And look at what a mess meh hairr is.)
*She sighs and does what she can with her hair. [Truth be told, it really isn't all that bad, but you know Brodda.]*
*Finally she heads downstairs and turns the key in to Wealdy, who smiles and asks how she slept.*
"Well enoough, thank yeh, lad."
"Good to hear it. Oh...!"
*About to turn and walk away, Brodda pauses, watching the bartender duck beneath the bar for a moment, then coming back up with a filled mug in hand.*
"Marroc said you were to have this last night, remember?"
*He slides the mug to her and she grins.*
"Wealdy, yeh arre a trrue frriend!"
*She takes the mug and, Burleg-like, drains it, setting the empty container on the counter.*
"Aaahhhhhh! Ah hoope that stuff neverr rruns oout!"
*With a wave and a smile, she head out the door, wiping her mouth on the edge of her sleeve as she goes.*
[to Elsewhere]
*frowns*
.oO(She must be more upset with me than I thought...)
*she sighs and finishes off her tea and leaves some silver on the counter for Billa then heads out the door*
To Elsewhere
*she walks into the inn and gives a nod to Billa who just grunts and heads back to the kitchen*
.oO(I don't think I will ever understand that woman...)
*she heads up to her room, unlocking the door with her key and locking it behind her as she enters*
*she throws her bag onto the floor and plops down onto the bed*
.oO(Oy what an exhausting day...)
*She closes her eyes and lets the energies flow..forming herself back into her wolf form and rests for the rest of the night*
*she wakes in the morning and meditates. After meditating she lets the energies flow once again, changin her form back into the elf*
.oO(I need to find a way to have this last longer...)
*she gets ready to leave, picking up her bag and sets out the door, locking it behind her*
*she heads downstairs and out the door*
To Market
*Brodda enters the inn with her gear in tow. Billa gives her usual scowl but added a very effective rolling of her eyes. As she approaches the bar, Wealdy looks at her in surprise.*
"Staying for a while, Miss Brodda?"
*Brodda smiles for the man.*
"Aye, until Minto an' Herrmy coome teh get meh."
*Wealdy looks thoughtful.*
"Are they after you?"
*Brodda chuckles and winks at him.*
"May Ah have a key, lad?"
"Oh, of course!"
*He reaches beneath the bar and hands her a key. She hands him enough coinage for a night.*
"Ah'll pay by the night since Ah doon't knoow how long Ah'll be herre."
"Fine, fine. Will you be back down soon?"
*Brodda grins.*
"Moorre than likely, meh boy."
*She takes the key and heads up the stairs to her room. She unlocks the door and finds she's got a nice view of the street in front of the building.*
.oO(Hmm. That'll be nice ferr keepin' an eye on things.)
*She sets her things down on the bed and unpacks everything, creating a shopping list for things she yet doesn't have, if she has time to get them tomorrow.*
bread & cheese
more tobacco .oO(Burrleg rrealy knoows how teh pick it!) :D
bits if dried meat
an extra set of clothes, explorers
caltrops
canvas, 2 sq.yd.
pitons, 2
trail rations .oO(Ferr how many days? Ah'll have teh ask.)
sack
.oO(Ah think that might do it.)
*Leaving her room, she locks the door behind her and returns to the main room. Wealdy smiles and, not needing to ask, sets an ale on the counter for her.*
*Brodda rewards him with a bow before climbing onto a barstool. She drinks her ale and chats with him when he's not working
we needs a dwarf.... For a very importants job."
*Minto nods.*
"So naturally I thought of you ."
*Minto smiles.*
"Yeah, I thoughts of a few others dwarfs. But Minto thinks yer the best choice."
*Brodda smiles lazily between puffs of the pipe. As the pair of halflings seem to fade away, Burleg comes into sharp focus.*
Burleg turns to Tensek
"Turn around boyo"
He turns back to Brodda and takes her in his arms and plants a long, strong, but gentle kiss squarely on her lips.
*Brodda feels herself blushing slightly as she exhales a breath of sweet-smelling smoke. The image of Burleg slowly fades and is suddenly superimposed by that of Marroc.*
Just moind yerself lass. The cities already one beautiful woman less these days, Oi'd hate ta see it become two."
*Brodda frowns slightly.*
.oO(One o' these things dooesn't belong.)
*lays her pack on the floor as well as her cloak as she undresses for the night*
*she lays on the bed, the cool feeling of the covers against her skin, make her smile...a nice feeling after being in the sun all day*
*she picks up her bow and takes a dagger from her belt on her pants, which lay next to the bedd and begins to shave away the wood adding more detail to the carvings*
*after a while she becomes quite tired, the bow almost finished enough to put the polish on, she lays it against the wall and pulls the cover over her and falls asleep, eventually changing back into her wolf form from the wild shape expiring*
Tagg rode to the nearest Inn he could find, for he thought he might be able to get some informationi about a job by one of the occupants. He tied Brie to a nearby tree with some rope, then entered the inn. He was immediately seen by the bartender-a short man, but Tagg couldnt quite identify his race-and started a conversation with him.
Aye, I havent seen you around these parts 'afore. What's your name and where do you come from?
Tagg, and I come from the forest o'er to the east of this city. I just moved here, and am looking for work. I hope to get some information from the folks staying overnight here.
Oh, forest, eh? Tha confirms my elf theory. Well, it looks like you may be waiting a while, its quite early. Would you like a drink in the meantime?
What do you have?
We've got water, ale, mead, spirits, dwarven spirits... or I can offer ya a cheap breakfast, only 2 sp... It's not much, but you get what you pay for.
.oO(Hmm.. alcohol in the mornings probably not a good idea... I better avoid the drinks)
"Um... Ill take the breakfast, thank you."
Okay, breakfast coming right up. It'll be a couple minutes, sit tight.
*the bartender puts an order to the cook in the backroom for a breakfast*
*a few minutes pass, then the cook comes from the back room with a tray of food, and lays it in front of Tagg, who removes two silver coins from a pocket and gives it to the man, then begins his meal*
Say, you never told me your name.
Oh, what kind of a host forgets to introduce hisself? I'm Wealdy, a human, born and bred here in the city. So, how's the meal?
The food was quite honestly horrible, but Tagg didn't want to insult the cook's culinary skills
"Um, fine, thank you."
*Tagg finished his meal, and Wealdy removed the tray from the counter, and took it in back. He came out soon, and concluded their conversation*
WIll I be seein' more of ya here? Are ya looking for shelter? We've got a couple rooms left, cheap fees...
No, I already have a room at the Boarding House. As for the coming back here, sure, I suppose.
Thus ended their conversation, and Tagg sat at the bar, waiting for a tenant to awake.
*She checks her look in the mirror, fiddles with her hair a bit, then leaves her room, locking the door behind her. She descends the stairs, smiling to Wealdy and wishing him a good morning. She orders up some breakfast, eggs and ham and potatoes plus whatever fresh fruit is handy, the looks around to select a seat. She is pleased to find the newcomer Tagg present. She steps forward to his table and greets him.*
"Good morrnin' Tagg! Mind if Ah jooin yeh?"
"So how is it gooin' with yeh? Is the boarrdin' hoouse woorkin' oout alrright?"
*She smiles to Billa as the gnome woman brings her breakfast. Naturally, Billa doesn't return the smile, only grumbles about the lack of tips. Brodda nearly chuckles as she walks away.*
"Neverrmind Billa. Yeh have teh git used teh herr." :D
*She cuts up the ham as she listens to Tagg.*
"Mrrs. Weatherrby makes a fine brreakfast. She's a wonderrful cook!"
*Brodda grins remembering the last meal she took at the boarding house.*
"Jobs, eh? What line o' worrk arre yeh lookin' ferr?"
*She chops up her fried eggs and mixes them and the ham with the potatoes, stirring it all into one mashy pile.*
*She digs her fork into the mashy pile on her plate and lifts a small heap to her mouth. The look on her face as she eats indicates clearly that she's enjoying her breakfast.*
[to SSAG]
"Eh, yeh'rre welcome."
*She shrugs and continues with her breakfast.*
"Wealdy, hon, kin Ah git an ale?"
"I've been sitting here a few hours, Im eager to get up and do something. I'm pretty sure I know the place your talking about, its that big place west of the Boarding House, I can see it from my room's window."
*with that he departs*
.oO(That was good!)
*With her shopping list in mind, Brodda heads out of the inn.*
[to the Market Square]
*With her arms laden with purchases, Brodda heads straight up the stairs and to the door of her room. She fumbles for the key and manages to find it and unlock the door without dropping anything. She lays it all out on the bed and studies it and the other things she had already brought.*
"Well, this shoould be the brrunt of it. Time teh git it packed."
*She folds and re-folds items, sorts, stuffs, rolls, and otherwise packs her backpack. Her bedroll ties to the bottom. After an hour of organizing, she smiles proudly.*
"All rrright! Soon we'll be off!"
*She takes her notebook, ink, and pen and sits in the chair by the window writing down her thoughts and watching the people on the street, alternately.*
When Tagg arrived at the Inn, he was about to tie Brie to a tree, but when he saw his sad looking face, decided to let him spend the night at the stable. When Tagg was walking close to the stable with Brie, almost immediately a young boy came out of it.
Hello, sir. Are you looking to use the stable? Only 2 cp. and a tip...
.oO(did he just say something about a tip?)
"Um, yes."
*he walked Brie in front of the boy and gave him 5 cp*
.oO(hmm.. that ought to cover any tip he might have been talking about)
*the stable boy slowly counted the money, and after making sure how much it was, his face lit up.*
"Right this way sir, would you like a tour of the stables? My name's Piper and I'm the stable boy! Feel free to come back here often!"
no, I dont want a tour. I really better be getting inside.
Tagg left the odd stable boy and entered the inn. Expecting to see Wealdy behind the bar, he was surprised when he saw a gnomish woman. Unlike Wealdy, she just kept her head down scrubbing some spot on the counter instead of greeting him. Tagg sat down at the bar and attempted conversation.
So, you must work the night shifts for Wealdy, eh?
Oh, great an elf who wants to talk...
Excuse me?
Tagg thought he heard the woman grumble something, but couldnt quite make it out.
Oh, uh, hello... Are you... here for reason?
Um, not really, I was just seeing if anyone was here. But I guess Ill take uh.. (he recalled the menu Wealdy had provided) Spirits, I suppose.
The woman didnt even reply, just went and got the drink, then put it in front of Tagg.
"1 sp."
*Tagg reached into his pocket and took out a silver coin, and handed it to her. He sipped his drink, thinking of what to do.*
.oO(She appears to be a gnome, maybe I could try speaking in her language, might make her more friendly.)
"Um, *speaks a few seemingly unitelligable words*"
*The look on the womans face was obviously one of surprise, for she didnt expect the elf to speak gnome. After some recovery, she replied.*
"*speaks more gnomish words*"
{Translate: Oh... this is quite surprising.... Where are you from?}
*Tagg took another sip at his drink, then spoke more gnomish words*
"*gnomish words*"
{Translate: I'm Tagg. I'm from the forest east of the city. What's your name?}
"*unintlligable words*"
{Translate: Uh, Billa. From the mountain caves north here.}
*Tagg finished the drink, which Billa took.*
"*more gnomish words*"
{Translate: So, do you take night shifts for Wealdy?}
"*gnome words*
{Translate: Why are you still here? You had your drink, unless you want something else, why stay?}
.oO(Obviously the effect wore off...)
"Gdran"
{Translate: Bye}
With that, Tagg got up and left the inn, deciding to try his luck with another inn.
[to Last Lich Inn]
*she grabs her pack and cloak then heads out the door, locking it behind her and heads downstairs for something to eat*
*she makes her order, Billa grumbling as usual as she takes the order to the kitchen, and watches the patrons*
.oO(After breakfast I should head over to Gamis's place beforer he heads out for the day)
*Billa soon comes back with her meal and drink. She nods and hands her a couple of silver before eating. Billa grumbles something in her own tongue and runs off to another table*
*after breakfast she pays for her meal and leaves the inn*
To Elsewhere
"Hey. Hi Mister Haveorc. Wese looking for Brodda. Shes a dwarf. Shes abourt this tall and aint got a beard.... Oh, and shes a girl."
*Grack does not respond.*
.oO(Minto!!!)
*She finishes descending the stairs and smiles.*
"Helloo Minto!."
*Hermy turns to watch them. and then smiles at Grack.*
"Thanks Mister Haveorc. Thats just the one we was looking for."
*He moves behind Minto.*
"Brodda! Just who we were looking for. Theres been a change of plans."
"We need to find a mummy instead. To save NaShaes mother from turning into a horrible creature."
"Yeah, an we heards where ones might be. An its probably a dwarf mummy."
"Have you ever heard any songs about an ancient dwarf kingdom past the west desert?"
"I haven't, but I don't know many dwarven songs.... yet."
"Maybe you could teach me some while we go ladventuring. I could teach you a few things I know."
*Minto winks.*
"Yeah, Minto knows a lot of songs about me. And a couple about other people too."
"Change o' plans? Mummy? NaShae's motherr? Dwarrf mummy?"
*Brodda looks to Minto, horribly confused, for some help.*
"Ah doon't think... dwarrf mummy? Dwarrves doon't mummify theirr dead..."
"Hes a nice fellow, not usually known for jumping to conclusions, so I suspect there must be some validilty to what he's found."
"And he's a paladim, he can't lie. Sose its got to be the truth."
"He says theres a dwarf mummy that drives a chariot out in the desert."
"An if we don't get it, then NaShaes mom will turn into an undead guy. And I know an undead guy. They aint very nice."
"He didn't say that Hermy. He said there was a mummy found out there years ago. And referances to dwarves who rode chariots."
"And from what I know about mummys they are usually buried with a lot of gold and gems."
"An thats what we needs for Alissa."
"Darkars gunna go raid the pie castle. Me an Minto an NaShae an Kywyn an Gamis an you is gunna go find the mummy."
"If you are still interested of course."
[whisper]"...pie castle..."[/whisper]
.oO(Therre arre paladins in this toown? Therre's hoope yet.)
"Aye, Herrmy, Ah'll still help."
*When she hears the party members, her brow furrows a bit.*
"NaShae and Kywyn? Therre' the pairr frrom the LLI arren't they? With the young'un?"
*Brodda remembers her last encounter with NaShae.*
.oO(She seemed rratherr suspicious of meh. Ah woonderr how she feels aboout meh bein' in the parrty. Still, it doesn't matterr much. Herrmy needs meh help, and help Ah will.)
*She smiles finally.*
"When do we leave?"
"Theres a meeting tomorrow atthe guild about noon to se if wese figured out wherethatis."
"Gamis an Nashae an Kywyn arestill reading books."
"Us three is suppose to go listen to singers to see if theres a song that has clues."
"I was hoping you knew one. But if you don't NaShae said there is an elf bard staying at the Last Lich who might know."
"I coulds go check with him, while you too check other bards you know. We coulds covers more ground that way."
"Therre arre no barrds betterr than me and Minto, but it's not a contest of ability noow, is it?"
*Brodda grins.*
"Ah kin think of worrse things teh do that gooin' arroound the city with Minto listenin' teh music."
"Don't forget to be at the guild tomorrow at noon though."
"So don't stays up all night having sex."
*Minto blushes as Hermy exits the inn.*
"ummm, ... well... Its a good thing he's a hero. He really doesn't have the tack to be a bard."
"Ah doon't... um, Minto is... "
*She looks at Minto, sees him blushing, and blushes herself.*
"Well damn."
*Then she begins to laugh.*
"I'm sorry about that. He's been acting very strangely lately. Ok, stranger then usual."
"I don't blame him though. Trying to decided to bring back your one true love can't be an easy choice to make."
Minto slowly stops laughing.
"Where should we start looking?"
"That's a good question. Ah've not met any otherr barrds, but therre must be some. We can't be the oonly two. Ah wonderr if this toown has a rregistrry ferr enterrtainerrs? So the lorrds kin hirre who they need ferr events?"
*She walks over to the bar and asks Wealdy for an ale, who nods and draws one for her. She looks at Minto questioningly.*
"Want soomethin'? Ah'll buy."
He joins Brodda at the bar.
"I know there were several bards in the Jackals. But i don't know how many survived against the dragons."
"I suspect not many."
Wealdy pours Minto an ale which he gladly accepts.
"And I've seen some others performing at the market every once in awhile."
"And there was Ashina at the Last Lich, though rumour has it she never returmed from the March."
"But most of the inns in this city don't exactly encourage performers in them."
"TI've sung a few times at the Blue Pumpkin but I don't think they appreciated it much."
"And I know some of the nobles hire bards to perform at their parties. I've done that once."
"Though I doubt that partcular noble would be willing to help us. Especially if he knew why we were looking for other bards to help Hermy."
"His daughter might. Or her boyfriend."
"We could always check with the Travellars as well. Big music fans they are."
"And Alissa was one of them once. They might be willing to help as well."
"Jackals? Drragon? Barrds verrsus drragons?"
*Brodda shakes her head, not sure she wants to know.*
"Perrhaps we shoould check with these 'Jackals' then, then with these Travellarrs. Soounds like those will be ourr larrgest soourrces of inforrmation."
*Brodda drains her ale quickly, nodding to Wealdy who refills it for her.*
"Yeh knoow, we dwarrves accept the deaths of oourr looved ones. Therre's noo questionin' whetherr they want teh rreturrn to us."
"And in Hermys case even less so."
"Almost everyone he's known that has died has come back to life."
"Arnor, Daron, Natala,... Kirby."
"I don't think he knows that it is usually permanant."
"But he is trying to do the right thing."
"I don't know if we've mentioned it. But some of the money we are getting is to pay for a spell that will let him find out if she wants to come back."
"His first priority is that she is happy."
"It's got to be hard for him though. IHe had never been happier then when he was with Alissa."
"Ah'm glad Ah'm a dwarrf."
*She takes her second ale a bit slower.*
"Ah've not knoown Herrmy long, and he seems a bit confused aboout soome things, but when yeh'rre in loove, therre's no confusin' that with soomethin' else. Too, he's yeh'rre frriend, which makes him meh frriend too."
*She smiles.*
"These Trravellarrs... when and wherre arre they best foound?"
*She takes a drink.*
"And who arre these Jackals?"
"It would be best to wait until morning to talk to her."
"We could find a few of the others roaming around the city."
"Perhaps we could find Derry sneaking out of the
karsten Manor. I doubt he is allowed through the front door."
He takes a sip.
"The Jackals are, or were Lord Maelifaeyrs elite bodyguard."
"And from what I've seen, basically Garics army as well."
"Most of them were killed in the last outing from what I have seen."
"I doubt theyt will be in a very helpful mood."
"Tnough if it is for Hermy they might help."
"He was knighted as one of them."
"And does not usually have a problem getting an audience with Lord Maelifaeyr himself."
"But I believe Alissa's sister Aria has already made adeal with him."
'"The Trvellars would be our best bet."
.oO(The elite bodyguarrd o' one o' the lorrds o' this foul city. Shooulda knoown.)
"Alrright. Beatrrice in the morrnin' it is then."
*She takes a drink, gazes long at Minto, takes another drink.*
.oO(It makes sense ferr Minto teh stay herre at the inn t'night since we'll be gooin' on an errand t'getherr in the moorrnin'. Heck, he coould even stay in meh rroom with meh! Dooesn't mean annythin'll be happenin' like Herrmy expects. Afterr all, we'rre two grrown adults who happen teh appreciate each otherr's company.)
*She smiles at Minto.*
.oO(Doesn't mean we'll just fall into soome lustfull embrrace at the firrst moment of prrivacy. Besides, Ah hate dooin' anythin' expected.)
"Yeh'rre welcome teh sharre meh rroom with meh. It woouldn't make sense ferr yeh teh haf'ta go all the way back teh the guild this late."
*She drinks more ale.*
"Well if you are going to share your room, then it would only be fair of me to buy athe next few rounds."
"It's far to early to be going to sleep now."
"Wealdy. Another ale for the lady please."
.o0(Hmmm, maybe theres something to being as blunt as Hermy.)
"And having a few drinks with a friend isn't a bad way to kill a few hours. Theres only a few better ones that I can think of in fact."
.o0(No. I think I'll stick with being charming.)
"Ah accept."
*She drains her second ale and takes another from Wealdy.*
"Tell meh, what arre the few ways teh kill a few hourrs with a frriend besides havin' a few drrinks. Ah kin think o' only one mehself." ;)
"Or a combination of both."
"I seem to remember a very fascinating chant I heard once."
He winks.
"And a very interesting bit of movement that accompanied it."
He takes a swig of his ale.
"That particular bit of singing and dancing was better then any drinking I've ever done."
.oO(He's sooo charrmin' and funny. Why am Ah worried aboout anyone else?)
*She leans in close to Minto.*
"Ah think a rrepeat perrforrmance coould be arranged." ;)
*She slides off the stool, surprised at how wiggly the floor seems to be. She steps backward towards the stairs, crooking her finger at him, and a very pleasant smile on her face.*
"Perhaps you could teach me a few words of dwarven on the way to the room?"
He wraps an arm around Brodda's waist to help support her, and himself.
"Songs are always better when you know what is being sung."
He helps Brodda up the stairs and into her room.
Grack does not respond.
*she walks up to the bar and sits, getting a drink from Wealdy as well as something to eat*
*when her dinner comes out she eats enjoying the taste and drinks her wine*
*after finishing her meal and a few drinks she heads upstairs to her room and undresses, then notices the smell*
.oO(Ugh! I need to take a bath..how can anyone stand it..no wonder Shae looked sick when she walked up to me...)
*she grabs a towel and her clothes and heads to the washroom, closing the door behind her and then draws a nice warm bath*
*the tub fills and she steps in, letting her body soak in the warm water before scrubbing all the dirt off of her. She washes her hair next and then her clothes, wringing them out.*
*she wraps the towel around herself and grabs her clothes and heads back to her roomm, locking the door behind her and then hangs her clothes on the window sil to dry*
*she climbs into bed and lays back to relax, eventually falling asleep*
It sounds like singing. Well, some of it at least.
*she tries different methods of muffling the noise from her mind..from covering her head and ears with her paws, or putting her head under neath the pillow*
Achoo!
*one of the feathers from the pillows tickle her nose and then it happens....the singing voice hits an octive so high that glass would break*
.oO(Can't fight it...must hold back...)
AROOOOOOOOooOOOOOOoooooo!
*she howls as the pitch pierces her ears*
.oO(:embarrass )
*wood against wood begins to bang in the next room*
That's it!!!
*she growls as she jumps out of bed and walks over to the door*
WILL YOU TWO PLEASE KEEP IT DOWN!!!!!!!!
I'm trying to SLEEP!!!!!!
*she places her head under the pillow*
.oO(I should look for a quieter residence in the morning..this is just too much...)
*she eventually falls back asleep*
*Brodda's ears pick up the sound of a wolf howling nearby. She chuckles in Minto's ear.*
"Even the woolves arre havin' a good night." :D
[In The Morning]
*Brodda slowly approaches consciousness with an awareness that the room seems to be slowly spinning. She gives a muffled groan. Then she realizes her back and neck seem to be a bit...uncomfortable.*
.oO(Wherre in heaven am Ah?)
*Slowly she opens her eyes, making a small cry at the sudden invasion of morning sunlight. She swiftly raises her arms to hide her face from the brightness, losing her balance on her perch and promptly tumbles to the floor with a thud and another groan.*
"What...?"
*She looks around to find herself in her room at the inn, on the floor, next to the writing desk near the window. Brodda carefully sits up.*
"Now how did Ah...?"
*She remembers and a grin slowly spreads across her face.*
"Oh. Yah."
*She looks around for Minto.*
Tagg approached the inn, and walked over to the stable nearby. Piper immediately came and greeted him.
hello, sir! What do you need?
Im here to pick up my donkey. I dropped him off here yesterday morning.
Ah, yes.. that donkey. Just a second.
*the boy walked into the stable, and emerged a few moments later with Brie, and walked him over to Tagg.
Thank you.
*he was about to mount Brie, but noticed Piper's expectant face, and threw him a couple copper pieces, then rode away into the city, glad to have Brie back and wanting to find someone to hunt with.*
[to Elsewhere]
.oO(Such a warm welcome after such a horrible night..)
*she gets up and does her morning meditation before changing into her elven form and dressing*
*she combs out her long black hair then makes two braids just above each ear then making a third as she ties them in the back*
*after finishing her hair and getting dressed she grabs her bag, leaving her cloak and leaves the room, locking it behind her and then heads downstairs for something to eat*
*she sits at a table in the corner of the room and orders some fruit for breakfast. Then eats in a quiet somber as she watches the goings on in the room*
"Dog hair. In the sheets. I ain't asking about yer private life, but keep the dog outta the bed!"
Billa stomps back to the kitchen.
.oO(Yep I definately need to find a better place to stay...)
*she finishes her meal and leaves a tip with the tab and heads out of the inn*
To Elsewhere
"Good morning Brodda."
Minto smiles andd lets his eyes readjust to themorning light.
"I must say that that was the most creative use of a washbasin I've ever seen. Is that an old dwarven custom. Or a new one?"
He chuckles and looks around the room for his clothes.. Spotting his pants hanging from the doorknob he jumps down from the desk to fetch them.
"I think we might have time to pick up a bite to eat before we head to Bertrice's home."
"Would you prefer to eat here or to get something in the market?"
"It was an entirrely new custom that Ah intend teh continue."
*She chuckles.*
"The Marrket, Ah think. We can eat on the way therre."
*She gets up, grabs a towel, and heads for the washroom, winking at the halfling bard as she shuts the door. She returns a few minutes letter looking quite refreshed. She quickly dresses in casual clothing and kisses Minto.*
"Rready!" ;)
Once she returns, Minto grins.
"The market it is then."
"No offense to Marroc meant but I really don't want having to deal with that gnome ruin our perfect morning."
He holds the door to the room open for Brodda.
"After you, M'Lady."
"Soomehow Ah doon't think Marroc'd mind us gooin' oout ferr a bite."
*She walks with him down the stairs and out the door.*
"Wherre do yeh think that woolf was last night?"
[to Market Square]
"I wouldn't be surprised if it was teleported in from the forest. It was a very magical night."
Minto winks as they head out.
*Tensek opens the door for Anaya as the reach the inn.*
After you.
Why thankyou.
*she walks to a table and sits, and a gnome female walks over grumbling about tips*
Billa: *sigh* What'll ya have?
*she smiles at Billa*
A glass of wine for me and whatever he wants.
*she indicates Tensek*
Don't worry about her, she's just a bit grumpy like always.
*she smiles*
So tell me a little about yourself Tensek. What brings you to Garics?
*she sips her wine as she thinks*
.oO(Hmm..well it would be nice to have people accustomed to the wilds to go on this task with me...speaking of which I need to talk to Donn..)
So he saved your life? What is this dwarf's name?
Odd taste...
*Setting the wine down for a moment Tensek looks at Anaya.*
His name is Burelg Kahrn...
.oO(I know that name...but where?)
*she gathers her thoughts and memories of her past and recollects the venture to find Kirby*
.oO(Oh..him...
)*she nods*
I know Burleg. I haven't seen him a long while though..he has this obsession that elves smell..or something or other.
*she shakes her head*
I found him quite rude and disorderly frankly, that is just my opinion...but if he saved your life..
*she smiles*
I guess he isn't all that bad.
*she takes another sip of her wine*
He isn't that bad just alittle rude.
So what have you been doing now that you are in the city. I didn't see Burleg with you..
*Tensek takes another sip of his wine and looks at the liquid with a raised eyebrow.
Something wrong?
*she looks at the wine glass and nods*
Ahh..it's not the best wine...I believe their ale is more popular though, but I don't drink the stuff.
*she pauses*
Have you been looking for work since you came to the city? I mean other than helping Burleg in his mine.
No nothing's wrong... I've never had wine before. It's just new.
*Tensek smiles*
Work? NoI don't really need work I can live off teh land perfectly fine. I'm not really sure how much work a tracker and hunter could find in a city. What about you? What's your story?
You would be surprised to see how often a tracker or a hunter is needed.
*she raises and eyebrow*
My story? Well..hmmm..I was born and raised in the wilds to the northwest of the city and I was trained in the path of the druid. I live off the land, and what I take I give back.
After coming of age I left to seek my own path and I came across Garic's. I have a grove not to far from the city, but I have been stuck in the city trying to remedy some unfinished business.
I've made many friends and allies and have offered my services as a druid in tasks that come up periodically, but the reason I asked if you were looking for work is because I have been asked to gather a group to find a creature outside of the city...a manticore to be exact.
He didn't really give me a reason to why he needed it, but he stressed that it was very important and he wants it preferrably alive. I of course wouldn't be able to do such a task on my own and that is why I'm looking.
I prefer it be people that are well accustomed to the wildernes..it just leaves out some of the problems you have when bringing someone from the city out on a venture into the wild.
It is a big task I admit. I have only heard legends of manticores, but have never seen one myself.
*Tensek smiles.*
Capturing a manticore alive would be a great feat.
*she smiles*
I think that the adventure itself would be enough to try. To see a live manticore in its own habitat...is a wonder to see in itself.
I could only imagine...
Do you think you would be interested in helping me? and if Burleg is interested..the more the better. I still have to get ahold of a couple of old friends to see if they would like to come as well, but you are the first person I asked.
*Tensek nods enthusiastically.*
I would expect I could get Burleg to accompany the group.
Thanx..I am much appreciated.
*she begins to feel the energies flow*
Excuse me for a moment..I'm going to get my things from my room. I'll be back.
*she smiles and heads upstairs to her room, unlocking it with her key and locking it behind her*
.oO(That was a little too close..)
*she lets the energies change her into the wolf and then she lets them flow once more back into the elven form*
.oO(That's better..)
*she grabs her things, making sure she has everything and then goes back downstairs, stopping by the bar to hand the bartender her key and walks back over to the table, her cloak layed over her arm and her bow which is carved in intriquet designs of leaves, a wolfs head sits at the center of it*
*she lays it on the floor so it rests agains the table and she sets down her bag and cloak on the empty chair*
*she smiles at Tensek*
So you have any plans on what you want to do while you are in the city?
No reason really. Sometimes people do and some don't. Being in the city gives peopl alot of opportunity to experience things that they wouldn't otherwise.
*she smiles*
I rarely stay in one place for very long.
I suppose I never found a real reason to...
I never really found a reason either..and I'm sure that one day I'll leave Garic's as well...maybe go back to my little part of the woods..
*she smiles and pays for their drinks*
I need to drop my stuff off at the Weatherby boarding house...if you want we can get something to eat?
Of course but only if it's my treat.
Alright.
*she gathers her things a leaves a couple of silver on the table for Billa's tip*
Shall we?
*she smiles and they exit the inn*
To Elsewhere
"hello sir. what would you like today?"
"actually, i need a place that i could use for at nights for a while, at least a couple weeks. How much would lodging per week be?"
Well, at the regular price of a stable, it would cost you 14 cp for 7 nights. but Ill give you a slight discount because your doing it in one go. Plus, some tips...
.oO(look at the kid. bargaining with copper. ill brighten up the kid's day and just give him some extra. After all, its still a lot cheaper than the last lich...)
"How about this, Ill give you 20 copper a week for stabling. Thats plenty tip, I'd say."
*Tagg offers a hand to the boy, containing some copper*
"oh, thank you... dont worry, your donkey will be in good hands."
*the boy takes the copper hastily then walks Brie to the stable*
Tagg watched him go into the stable, then walked into the inn himself. He enters, and looks around for a noticeboard. While looking, he is greeted by the familiar voice of Wealdy.
Howdy there, Tagg. Are you looking for something?"
"actually, i am looking for a noticeboard... Im trying to get some freelance work."
oh... well, unfortunately we have no notices currently, but check in every so often, we get updates occasionally. Would you like a drink?
*tagg was disappointed, but then he remembered that rent was due at the boarding house today. He immediately looks at the sky and notes that that the day is not quite done, and still has time*
"Um, im sorry, Wealdy, but I've just recalled something I have to do... Some other time. ...But one thing before i go. I met that gnomish woman here once... ive been wondering if i could get a schedule so i know who to expect when i come here..."
Again, im afraid i cant help you too much. Our schedules vary each week, we mostly play it by ear, its not very predictable. But, thanks for stopping by, hope I'll see you soon. Farewell.
"Yes, I'll be back here tomorrow, I wager, but if not, sometime soon. Thank you for your help, and good-bye."
with that Tagg leaves the inn and walks hurriedly back to the boarding house.
[to weatherby boarding house]
Far too long.
He taps out his pipe and motions towards an empty bar stool.
"Loing toime since Oi seen you around lass, been up to anything excoiting?"
"A bottle of wine if you would."
*smiles and shrugs*
"Nothing overly much, though I'm sure that will change in good time."
"Oi really need to stort stoikin more of this. "
He places the bottle in front of her and picks up his pipe,.
"Moind if Oi don't smoke?"
He stuffs his pipe into a pocket and grins.
"Oi really need ta get more smoking tobacco too."
He looks at Fern for a second and then opens the bottle for her.
"One thing ya cin count on around 'ere is that excitiment aint never too far away."
"That dangerous is it?"
*leans back trying to contemplate the bottle and Marroc at the same time*
"Dangerous enough to warrant a glass?"
*laughs suddenly*
"Or two?"
"Oi'll be sticking to me ale. Wine an Oi don't get along to well. It gives me gas."
He pours the wine into Ferns glass.
"An what are yer plans fer this evening? Oi doubt you plan on spendin all noight drinkin away yer troubles do you?"
*picks up the glass*
"I didn't have any other plans, but if you have something that needs to be done..."
*takes a sip*
"Well that would depend on you lass."
"Are ya still lookin ta get even, or are ya ready ta move on with yer loife?"
"I intend to keep the promises I've made, but getting even for my own sake?"
*downs the rest of the glass*
"I'm not going to waste my life on that."
*sets the glass back down*
"I'd rather be the one laughing in the end, than the fool who died fighting a fight she didn't need to win."
"In that case Oi moight be able to use yer 'elp."
He takes another sip.
"One of moi usual information sources seems to 'ave gone off adventuring."
"And Oi was 'aving 'er look after another friend o' one that seems to be headin' fer the soime mistake you made."
"Yer a little to well known boi the folks 'es associating with to actually watch 'im, but ya could troi an foind out fer me just whoi 'es so keen on getting revenge."
"Oi suspect it's got soimethin to do with a woman."
"An not the elf lass whose been dreamin about 'im."
"Though she moight be a good place ta get some information from."
"An an easy one at that."
"Be careful toikin to her. Anything ya say will most likely get around quicker then a dwarf cin crack open a keg."
"Any suggestions on how I might go about finding her?"
"Well she 'ad a room 'ere until recently, but she moved out an got a room at ole Mrs. Weatherbys."
"Or you could try the Silver Sword as well.. She wears oneof their pins."
He takes another sip of ale.
"'Er name is Anaya. She's somesort a druid most of the toime. Readily identifiable tatoos."
"It shouldn't be to hard to find her or to gety her to toik about ole Kai."[/i]
"I'll see what I can do, wouldn't want anyone else to make that mistake after all."
*smiles slightly*
Though it would be interesting to watch...
*shakes herself*
"I'll see what I can do."
He takes a swig of ale and then wipes some foam of his face with his sleeve.
"Oi doubt you'll run into any more trouble then you cin handle."
"If I do I'm sure someone will let you know."
*stands and bows her head slightly*
"I'll be back when I have something for you."
*heads for the door*
Tagg approaches the Inn, and walks over towards the stable.
.oO(odd... Piper is usually out by the time I get here...)
He nears the door, and still no signs of the stable boy. He eventually enters the stable, and finds Piper in the corner tending to one of the donkeys. Tagg greets him, and Piper immediately responds, obviously surprised by the visitor.
Oh, hello. Er... didnt see you. Anyway, I assume you are here to pick up your donkey, right?
"Yes. Sorry I didnt pick him up earlier, been busy..."
Thats quite alright. For 20 copper, you could leave him here the week straight.
*he walks over to Brie in one of the stalls, and walks him over to Tagg*
*Tagg pets Brie on the head, then mounts him.*
"Thank you. Ill be back soon."
Okay, Goodbye.
With that he rides away, eager to reach his home.
[to Weatherby Boarding House]
Tagg rode up to the familiar inn. He rode up to the stable on the side of the inn, and didnt find Piper about. he entered the stable, and the boy was sleeping in a corner on a bed of hay. He slowly walked Brie up to an empty stall and tied him to a side railing. With that he made his departure, for he was sure Piper would recognize Brie and what had happened. He walked back to the boarding house, eager to get into bed after the long day.
[to weatherby boarding house]
oO.(Smoking, nasty habbit. Not only does it make you cough, it reeks. Bad Idea.)
Lucian makes his way to the bar and grabs a seat, walking stick resting on his lap.
"Could I get an ale please?"
Marroc fills up a mug of ale and slides it over.
"Anything else Oi cin get fer ya?"
oO. (Beh..)
"Thanks. Actually I was looking for someone and wondered if she'd come here before."
Marroc looks Lucien over and cracks a small grin.
"A good lookin' chap loike yerself, probably fer Onya, I'd recon."
"She moved out of 'ere awhile ago."
Marrocs smile lessens.
"An ye moihjt want t o reconsider troin ta foind 'er. You'd just be another notch in 'er belt if ye get moi meaning."
Marroc starts filling up another ale.
"Let me tell ya wot. 'Ave an ale on the 'ouse to drown yer sorrows in. Oi find it's best to do that before they actually start. Saves a bit o' 'eartache in the end."
"Ah.. so Anaya's that kinda girl. I didn't think she'd be..."
Lucian licks his lips.
"I'm actually looking for a dwarf named Brodda, maybe you've heard of her. "The most beautiful dwarven bard around.""
Lucian chuckles at the memory.
"You don't 'ear those words everyday do you?"
"But when ya do it's usually about Brodda. She coimes in 'ere fairly often."
"She loikes the ale 'ere."
"A real lush that one is."
He looks at Lucien.
"But a pleasant enough person. Oi couldn't tell ya much more about 'er though."
"Oi don't allow spellflingin' or performing in moi inn. The clientele comes 'ere to wallow in their sorrows. Not ta be eased of them."
He looks towards Grack.
"An Grack 'ere does a good job o' enforcing these rules. "
"That it is. However, I'm having a hard time finding here. She said she was looking for employment so I've asked a few people who might be interested. It's like seperating rice from sand to find 'er."
"'E's ole 'Ermy Woodomes minstrel. She probablly ran off on soime fool 'eaded adventure to save the city."
He rolls his eyes.
"Oi don't go fer messing around in other peoples buisness, but Oi can't say that's the best way for a bard to make a living"
"Sure it get's you fame, but it doesn't do much fer the old purse."
He takes a big puff from his pipe and slowly exhales.
"If she survives an 'asn't caught the 'eroing bug that that 'alflin seems to spread Oim sure she'll appreciate the work."
"Ye could try leaving a message fer 'er at Miss Weatherbys boardin' 'ouse."
"Oi suppose Oi could let 'er know next toime she coimes in 'ere too."
"Fer a price of course."
"Oi aint a messenger service. Oim a innkeeper."
"She's with the Mr. Woodholms minstrel? The Hermy Woodholms Minstrel?"
Lucian lets off a low whistle.
oO. (I should tell boss that...)
"Thanks for the offer but I'll go leave word with Mrs. Weatherby." oO. (Note: I've been learning about you when you're out of the city. Hope you don't mind but there's also a message at your room.)
Lucian sips at his ale thoughtfully.
Marroc takes another big puff and picks back up the dirty glass and starts wiping it.
"Oim not the best at giving messages. Oi tend to moind moi own buisness."
"Oi don't even know most of moi regular customers names. Unless they tell me, Oi don't ask."
"It's none of moi buisness 'oo comes in 'ere. Moi buisness is just ta keep'em in drinks."
He smiles.
"Would you like another one?"
"No thank you sir. If you don't mind me asking what's your name?"
He spreads his hands and points around the inn.
"It's not much, but it's a living."
He takes another puff of his pipe.
And stares at Lucien.
"It seems quite comfortable."
Marroc puffs away on his pipe and starts washing his glass again.
"If theres anythin else Oi cin do fer ya let me know, but theses dishes don't clean themselves."
Lucian quickly downs the rest of his ale then exits the inn. His walking stick hitting out a steady rhythm.
Tap. --- Tap. --- Tap.
"Yes?"
*he quickly digs around in his pocket and extracts 3 silver coins*
"Here, this is my fee increased by 50 percent."
*he hands the gold to Piper, who eagerly accepts it, and his face appears to light up, as he seems to forget the lateness*
"Would you be liking to take Brie now?" he says while already beginning to walk towards the stable
"Yes, thank you."
"No trouble." Tagg hears him say from the distance, for Piper is already a few steps away from the stable. Soon he emerges with Brie and present him to Tagg.
*he pets Brie, having not seen him in so long."
"But can you just keep him here for a moment? I need to check something at the inn..."
He walks over towards the inn, he hears Piper say "ok," and he proceeds to the doors. he enters and sees the gnomish woman behind the counter. He skips straight to gnome and greets her.
"Et hage. De grien ki awasl ei lerpos?"
~Hello. Any updates on the noticeboard?~
*she shakes her head, message already clear to Tagg but she proceeds to answer verbally*
"Gw, fe` javwre keji de grien hui quiernsd." she says, with an unwelcoming tone.
~No, we havent had any updates in awhile.~
*Tagg's head spins slightly to see the noticeboard, and she had spoken true; nothing had changed since the last time he was there. He turns back to Billa.*
"Luersg. Hjialw."
~I see. Good bye.~
*he stands up and walks out the door, Billa already absorbed in her work and Tagg doubts if she had even heard him, but from what he had gathered she would not care either way.*
He walks outside and Piper is waiting with Brie, and so Tagg mounts him and says farewell the boy. He gallops away, and soon the outline of the inn vanishes as he gets farther and farther away.
[to weatherby boarding house]
Tagg arrives at the inn, and walks in. He is pleased to see that Wealdy is at the bar. He quickly scans over to the noticeboards, not really expecting a change but not about to pass up the opportunity to look. Then he takes a seat at the counter and skims over the menu.
"Hello Wealdy. Some spirits, please."
*he puts a silver coin onto the counter, which Wealdy picks up*
"Howdy Tagg. Just a moment."
*he turns his back to Tagg and fills the glass with a bubbling liquid, then turns and puts it in front of the elf*
"Thanks."
*he picks it up and at first sips carefully to drain it a little lower to a safe height and then takes more of a gulp.*
Wealdy asks about the weather and a few other common topics, and Tagg responded predictably and drank more out of the glass. Soon he was finished with it and he lingered a little while longer to let the drink settle in. He said farewell to the bartender and walked over to the door, and while doing so feeling a slight twinge of pain from the swollen bump where the spider had bit. He heads out and begins travelling home where rent was due once again.
[to weatherby boarding house]
"Oim guessing that were yer friend Tagg, roight? The woodsman?"
Wealdy smiles and nods.
"Not much o' a talker is 'e?"
Again Wealdy nods.
"Da ya think he's more of an adventurer then 'e is a conversationalist?"
Wealdy shrugs.
"Well why don't we foind out next toime 'e's 'ere."
Marroc returns to his office and then comes back to the bar with a sheet of parchment and a inked quill. He starts writing on it.
"Grack tells me 'e keeps looking at the board over there. I suppose ya could 'ave told 'im that it's not a message board but fer keeping score on the crud tables, but since it don't get used fer that either..."
Marroc finishes writing and ambles over to the board. He pushes a chair up below it then hops up and sticks the parchment to the board with a wad of wet tobacco.
"'ere we go. Let's see 'ow good this guy is,."
He gets down and returns to the bar.
"Wot do you think Wealdy me boyo? Da ya think this lads gunna be usable to me? I keep losing people Oi cin trust to the 'eroing bug."
Wealdy shrugs, Marroc shrugs back..
Wealdy grins and wipes the bar, Billa walks by the notice stopping briefily to read it and scowls.
Grack does not respond.
The note reads:
Billa looks to Marroc and shakes her head.
"Don't ye worry Billa, Oi think Wealdy cin 'andle this. If soimeone asks you about it just tell them ta moinfd their own buisness in yer customary way."
Marroc taps his pipe on the counter to get Wealdys attention.
"Listen up lad. When yer friend Tagg asks about the notice tell him one of the more well ta do customers 'ere lost his wedding ring while hunting outside the city."
"An he asaked me to see if Oi could foind it, because 'e didna want 'is woife ta know that 'e 'ad left the city. An as yer friend Tagg should know Oim known fer moi discreetness."
"Ask 'im if 'e'll go try to foind it fer me. Oi'll split the reward money fairly of course."
Marroc chuckles for a minute. Billa does as well. Wealdy looks around and scratches the top of his head in confushion.
"Oh, an let 'im know that the ring was lost to bandits. 'E moight want to prepare fer that."
Marroc gives Wealdy a tap on the forehead and then chuckles.
"Ye cin ;'andle all this can't ya me boyo?"
Marroc chuckles and then returns to his office and locks the door behind him.
"Interested, eh? Mr. Marroc thought you'd be. Now one of our customers lost his wedding ring out in the forest, and has asked us to get it back. Say his wife must be mighty agitated with him for that, huh? Or do you suppose she even knows? Hm. Oh, back to what I'm supposed to tell you. Now the ring was supposedly lost to bandits, so you may want to bring more than that little nail file, eh?" Wealdy points to the dagger handle sticking out of a holster on the elf.
*Tagg cannot suppress the emotions, the information an overload from the usual, and a smile spreads across his face, which he quickly puts away*
"Yes, I'm sure his wife would be very upset with him but I wouldnt put it past the bravest of men to hide it. I'm sure he'll want that ring back soon before she finds out, eh?" Tagg responds humoring the part of the conversation he was confident Wealdy had more interest in. Then he sat down at a table, calmer now, and began to access the situations.
.oO( Ok, now this won't be a walk in the park. Will need some thought. But what information do I really have to speculate off of?)
*Tagg begins to rummage through his mind and recalls the odd dream from the boarding house. Come to think of it, he never really fell asleep... but an odd thing for the conscious mind to conjure up. He reviews over Mrs. Weatherby's concern on the topic and decides to give it more thought*
.oO( That dream... so bizarre, but it seems to have stuck in my mind... could this be for a reason? Its seems so unlikely it would have any bearing on reality, but I'm heading straight back into the forest, where many a stranger thing have been seen than a spider. That goblin for example was weird and that's only the tip of what is out there. I wouldn't put it past mother nature to think of such a beast as the one in the dream... Could that have been some kind of warning? No, thats ridiculous. Or is it? Only one way to find out, I suppose. Head out there and take whatever fate has in store for me. but this takes preparation... Wealdy is right a single dagger might not be enough. better head back to the boarding house, get some sleep, think it over a little more, and stock up with what I need.)
Wealdy watches Tagg from behind the bar but notices the look on his face not to disturb his thoughts, until he stands up and engages the conversation himself.
"Thank you very much, dear friend. I have some things to think through and preparation to make, it would be best I head back to my residence."
"No problem at all. And a good decision; no point in rushing out and taking unecessary risks. Farewell and may luck be on your side."
Tagg leaves the inn and heads back over to the boarding house, sorting through his thoughts.
[to weatherby boarding house]
He gives Grack a nod and then steps up behind the counter to continue the never ending process of wiping that glass.
Tagg was relieved to see the inn in the horizon knowing he would not have to walk much further. He approaches the door and enters, and instead of Wealdy behind the counter saw Marroc taking the position.
.oO(Hm. That is convenient.)
"Hello, Mr. Marroc. I'm glad you are here. I have a few things I'd like to talk to you about regarding this ring... well more particularly the bandits."
"You muist be that Tagg lad Wealdy mentioned then."
"How did it fare? Did ya foind the ring?"
"Yer aloive so I doubt the bandits were too much trouble fer ya then."
Marroc takes another puff on his pipe.
*he gestures towards the blood stain on the back of his tunic where the ambusher struck him*
"Eh... to get back to why I'm here. I am pretty confident these ambushers were of the same clan as the bandits who took the ring. However I was unable to track them once they fled, and I am looking for any information about them. Do you happen to know anything more about these thieves?"
He looks closely at Tagg and shakes his head.
"But if ya couldna beat them when you 'ad yer weapons, wot makes ya think goin after them without then will prrove ta be any different?"
Marroc sighs.
"Well Master North really wants that ring back... an Oim a little to busy to look fer it myself..."
Marroc takes another puff off his pipe and gives the glass a good solid wipe.
"Oi'll tell ya wot, me boyo."
"Gracks got a few spare weapons layin around soimewhere."
"Oim sure Oi cin toilk 'im in to lending them to you."
"Do ya think ya cin take the bandits this toime? Better yet, da ya think ya could spot them 'ere in the city."
"Oi'd wager they 'ad to come back 'ere to sell off the things they took from ya."
"Oi'd check the Iron Wolf ifen Oi were you ta see if yer weapons 'ave shown up there."
"Its as good a place ta start as any Oi 'd wager."
Marroc nods and wipes the glass again, and as Tagg begins to walk for the door his aching muscles irritate him but he presses onward. Heading out into the daylight, he begins walking towards the armory, determined to find out more about the villainous thieves.
[to iron wolf armory]
"Interesting fellow, aint 'e?"
"Shall we foind 'im a few weapons?"
Marroc heads into his office, Grack follows but reappears a few minutes later and takes up his usual post by the door.
Brodda and Minto enter the inn, laughing and smiling at each other.
"...and then he turrned and ran! Ah've neverr seen anythin' soo funny since!"
She guffaws at the memory of it (whatever it is) as they head to the bar. Not seeing Marroc, Brodda happily greets Wealdy.
"Ho, Wealdy! Ah'm back, and Ah knoow yeh've missed meh!"
She chuckles. A bit more quietly, speaking directly to Wealdy, she continues.
"We need a bath and a rroom, lad. Pleeeease tell us yeh have soomethin' available."
"Oh, and we coould use soome o' the good ale up therre too!"
Wealdy greets the pair with a familiar smile.
"We've always got a room for you! Here..."
He gets a key and hands it to Minto.
"I'll see about getting some ale sent up, too."
Brodda grins
"Ah, Wealdy! What woould Ah do withoout yeh?"
She turns to Minto.
"Arre yeh hungrry? We coould orrder soome food up too."
Minto hands Wealdy the money for the room.
"Make sure it's the goodstuff, eh? Marroc won't mind. We're two of his favorite customers."
Marroc gives Wealdy a wink, and then gives Grack one too.
He takes Brodda's hand and leads her up the stairs to the room.
"This room looks familiar."
He opens the door and holds it for Brodda.
"After you."
"Aye, verry familiarr indeed!"
She enters the room with Minto close behind. She turns to him, gives him a big kiss, steps back and grins.
"Last one into the bath is smelly!"
She laughs and heads for the tub.
"If I weren't smelly, I wouldn't need a bath would I?"
Minto whistles as he watches Brodda get in the tub, and carefullly removes and neatly folds his before joining her.
"Now? Who wants to scrub who first?"
"Well, Ah've hearrd it said 'ladies firrst'. In this situation dooes that mean Ah scrrub yoou firrst orr Ah git scrrubbed firrst?"
She pretends to ponder that thought as she sinks under the water. After a few moments her grinning head breaks the surface of the water.
"Ahhh, the waterr feels good."
She looks around and frowns.
"Wherre's the bubbles?"
"Bubble's would just interupt the view."
"I'd be more then happy to scrub you down first."
"Hmmm, where to start?"
A long time later Brodda finds herself much, much cleaner.
Until she realizes its her turn. His turn. Or... you know.
She grins and takes the washcloth and soap.
After a while...
"Therre now. Yeh'rre lookin' quite..."
A smile spreads across her face. Until she looks at her fingertips.
"Aaaahhhh!"
She giggles.
"All wrrinkly."
She shows Minto.
She stands as if to get out. Her face freezes in horror and she sits back down.
"It's verry coold oout therre!"
He looks to Grack, who does not respond.
Marroc looks up at the roof.
"Oi 'ope you got a security deposit Wealdy? Those two cin be a tad rambuncious."
Wealdy frowns.
"No, I didn't think about that."
Marroc gives Wealdy a stern look before busting out a short laugh.
"Oi was kidding lad. Can't ya tell a joke when ya 'ear one?"
Wealdy grins.
"Ha, very funny joke too."
Marroc rolls his eyes.
"Send up some of the goodstuff will ya. Oi imagine they could use a good drink. The desserts a very droiy place Oi hear."
"Just be sure ta knock first."
"Theres soime sights ya moight not want to have burned inta yer skull."
.o0(What is it with those 'alflings at Darons place.. Ol' 'Ermy marries a 'uman. Minto an Brodda. Oi even 'eard those boys 'oo follow th4m around 'ave taken up with a gnome lass. No hanky-panky yet Oi 'ear but its only a matter of time.)
"An knock loudly. They're both bards. "
.o0(Oi hope it's not catching. Oi'd hate ta hafta ban them from me place.)
Marroc casts a strange look at Billa and then Grack and shudders.
Minto gets out, and keeping his back to Brodda to hide the effects of the chill retrieves a blanket.
He wraps himself in it and then returns to the tub and holds it open for Brodda to join him.
"I don't think getting the blankets wet now will make much of a differance. I'm pretty sure I'll be sweating up a storm soon enough."
"Sweat?"
She scoffs
"Ah doon't sweat. Ah thoought ye'd knoow that b'knoow." ;)
"But, therre arre otherr things Ah do."
She kisses him, musses his hair, picks him up and...
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK
"Nuts."
"I suspect that's the ale."
"It's got to be, we haven't made enough noise to bother anyone else.... Yet."
He gives her a kiss, and crawls down from her arms and wraps his arms around her.
They shuffle to the door and open it a crack.
"Wealdy? Is that the ale?"
Wealdy, his eyes clamped firmly shut nods. He thrusts two big mugs out towards the couple.
Minto takes them and hands them to Brodda.
"I'm afraid I can't tip right now. I don't seem to have my pockets close. But if you bring us another round, I'll get you on the way out."
"Just leave them by the door though. I think we'll be a little occupied for the next while."
Wealdy nods and hurridily heads away.
Minto closes the door and gives Brodda a kiss.
He gnudges her towards the bed, and then as he iease her onto it...
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK
Wealdy's voice calls out.
"What about the food you ordered? Should I leave it by the door too?"
"Yet..."
Brodda takes the ales and sets them on the table. She looks at them sitting there, all lonely. She shakes her head and drinks half of one, wiping the dribble from her chin.
"Oh heaven's that's good. Ah'd forrgotten how good."
She sets it down again and meets with Minto at the bed. She just starts to feel some warmth creep into her body when Wealdy knocks at the door again. She chuckles.
"Poorr guy."
She calls to the other side of the door.
"Aye, Wealdy. Yeh kin leave the food out therre too. We'll get it when we'rre rreaddy."
She looks at Minto.
"Wherre werre we?"
They kiss.
"Aye, that seems rright..."
[fade]
.oO(The biggerr the featherr, the smallerr the...)
She chuckles softly, knowing that not to be true in Minto's case.
Gently she rolls out of bed, careful not to wake the halfling bard. Taking a sheet that had ended up on the floor, she wraps herself in it and opens the door, checking for the food that Wealdy had promised to bring.
She had expected to find room-temperature fare for as long as it must have st in the hallway. Much to her delight, she discovers instead a small pot of hot soup, two bowls, and two spoons, accompanied by a loaf of bread.
She carefully brings the tray into the room and, kicking the door closed with her foot, sets it on the table.
She lifts the lid of the pot, steam escaping and filling the air with a delicious aroma.
.oO(Mmmmm! Smells wonderrful!)
She ladles soup into one of the bowls, replacing the lid onto the pot. Taking up a spoon, she returns to the bed, allows the sheet around her to drop, and sits beside Minto, careful to keep the soup from spilling, yet not so gentle as to not wake him. She waves the aroma towards his sweetly sleeping face.
He sees Brodda sitting with the soup and smiles.
"You know, I think soup may quickily become my favorite meal, if it's served this way often enough."
Minto carefully sits up, wiggling as little as possible so as not to bump Brodda and the soup. He notices a trace of steam coming from the bowl.
"It's still hot?"
Minto frowns.
"I could have sworn I lasted lon... "
Minto stops and winks.
"Marroc sure knows how to treat his best customers, doesn't he?"
"Aye, he does indeed."
She realizes she probably should have brought the second spoon with her.
.oO(Ah well!) :D
She ladels some broth into the spoon and feeds it to Minto.
"Ah think afterr anotherr bath Ah'll be rreaddy teh head doownstairrs and talk with Marrroc, if he isn't busy. Ah was supposed teh be lookin' inteh soomethin' forr him."
She continues to absently feed him soup, muttering bits and pieces of things as the concerns of things before the desert adventure begin to creep into her thoughts.
When the bowl is empty, Minto gets up to refill it. As he ladels more soup into the bowl he talks.
"Do you need any help with this buisness of yours? You were invaluable to Hermy and I on our task. It would only be proper to return the favor."
Minto returns to the bed, and sits. He takes a spoonful of soup, and after gently blowing on it offers it to Brodda.
She stares almost blankly at her hands as she realizes the bowl and spoon are no longer in them, but in Minto's.
"Oh."
"Sorrry. Ah got lost in thought forr a minute."
She smiles warmly at him and accepts the offering of soup.
"Ah just need teh trrrail this fella, see what he's up teh."
She accepts another spoonful of soup.
"Once that task is completed, Ah've got soomethin' else cookin'. A long terrm prroject."
.oO(Takin' doown the powerr behind the Strrikerrs is gooin' teh take quite a while, if the storries arre teh be believed. And Ah've no rreason teh not believe 'em.)
She smiles but shakes her head.
"Thanks. But yeh've got Herrmy teh take carre of, and Ah doon't knoow wherre this otherr prroject might take meh."
After the bowl is empty, she takes it and the spoon from him, returns them to the tray on the table. Coming back to him, she kisses him.
"Has anyone told yeh rrecently how sweet yeh arre?"
"But then again I've been out in the desert for the last few weeks."
Minto winks, and offers another spoonful of soup.
"Trailing a man? Have you learned the invisability trick yet? It could help you with that."
"I was thinking of making a wand to do that inext time I get enough funds."
"Once I do, be sure to ask to borrow a few charges."
"It makes stalking much easier."
"Even Hermy can use a little magic to help him, and he's pretty well invisabile on his own when he wants to be."
Minto chuckles quietly.
"Even in those bright red pants."
He laughs a little louder.
"And they really are bright red. You'd see that if you ever saw them clean."
"Speaking of which, I think we need to send out for more hot water."
"I 've a strange urge for another bath."
She smiles.
"That woould come in quite handy, thoough."
She laughs as Minto talks about Hermy's pants, then sighs.
"Ayye, anotherr bath woould be lovely. Let's do that." :D
She kisses him again.
While Wealdy heats and fills the tub, Minto and Brodda exchange kisses and wait for more privacy
And once they get it, well....
"Mmph! Heh." :D
She straightens the brass circlet on her head.
"Thank yeh, darrrlin'. Ah needed teh rrelax afterr puttin' up with..."
She lets her voice fade out and shakes her head.
"Well, neverrmind. Ah've got things teh get back to. Ah'll see yeh soon." ;)
With a parting kiss, she heads downstairs. She glances around for Marroc, but not seeing him, she promises herself she'll return very soon then heads out the door.
[to Elsewhere]
"Hello Wealdy."
"Hi Tagg. Can I get something for you?"
"No... but I have something to ask of you. Has a human, brown hair, green eyes, tall about 6 feet ever come in here that you can remember?"
Tagg allows a few minutes to pass as Wealdy thinks carefully, but by the lack of response and facial expression, Tagg feels it unecessary to strain the barkeeper's mind any more.
"That's okay. But if anyone like that comes in here I want you take a note, alright?"
"Sure Oi can do that." Wealdy smiles.
"Thanks. Is Marroc around?"
"Yep, he's in his office back there, but if you just plant yourself here he'll come out eventually to check up on the place."
Tagg nods in acknowledgment and takes a seat at the bar.
"'Allo there Tagg me boyo. Any luck foinding those bandits o'yers?"
Marroc nods at Grack, and the big half-orc slips into the office.
"Ole' Grack 'ad a few weapons 'e aint used in quite soime time, 'is axe works foine fer dealin with most trouble 'ere."
"'E didna 'ave a scimiter Oi'm afraid. 'E never fancyied small weapons much, but 'e did 'ave a few shortswords 'e's confiscated o're the toime 'es been working 'ere."
Marroc blows a smoke ring and watches it drift towards the ceiling.
"Now normally Oi'd be charging ya ta borrow these weapons, but since yer needin them on account of somethin fer a friend of moine, Oi'll let ya 'ave them fer the low price of a promise or two."
He looks Tagg straight in the eye.
"Da ya want to 'ear the promises or are ya just gunna agree to them now?"
"As for the weapons, it wouldnt hurt to hear the promises I suppose althought in the end I cant think of a reason that I wouldnt agree to them."
"It shows ya aint about to go rushing bloindily inta things, but that ya aint gunna be to cautiousa either."
"Both are bad things fer wot Oi'm going to need ya for."
Marroc takes a deep puff from his pipe and slowly exhales.
"Oi'm in need of a good sword arm on occasion."
"Oi've got a frew eyes an ears around town, but Grack can't watch over them all."
"Especially from 'ere."
He takes another deep puff.
"My 'eyes an ears' 'ave found yer bandits by the way."
"Oi cin tell ya where ta foind them, but in return Oi'll need yer word that ya'll watch out fer some people fer me on occasion."
"Don't worry, it won't be a full toime job loike ole' Grack 'as, but every once in a whoile one of moi agents could use soime muscle ta back them up."
He puffs again.
"Now Oi'm very aware ya didna make that good of an impression on yer last outing. But ya were working solo."
"It's a lot more dangerous that way."
"Not that Oi won't be asking ya to work solo again, but Oi understand the risks with iinvollved with it."
"Now da ya think ya cin 'andle working fer me?"
"I'll do it."
“Now then, Oi won’t be payin ya much ta be on retainer.”
“Normally Oi let moi employees stay ‘ere fer free, but ya got yerself a noice place at ole’ Mrs. Weatherby’s. An Oi’d hate ta take business away from ‘er I think Oi cin let ya keep yer animal in moi stables free o’charge when yer not working fer me though.”
“An o’course Oi’ll be payin ya fer any actual joibs ya do. Oi cint tell ya ‘ow much, that’ll depend on the job.”
.
Marroc blows out another smoke ring and watches it drift for a few seconds before looking at Tagg again.
“Now that that’s settled, ‘ow abouts we get ta foinding them bandits, eh?”
Marroc smiles.
“Oi got names on both of them, an an address fer one.”
“Marco an ‘Amlock Farther.”
“Their a pair o’ brothers. Marco, ‘e’s the younger one an the more dangerous o’ the two. Also the ‘arder one ta foind.”
“’Amlocks got ‘im a place not too far froim ‘ere. Down on Tumbleweed Street just above the shantytown.”
“Ya moight be able ta get soime information on ‘is brothers whereabouts froim ‘im, ifen ya don’t go rushing straight in an start swinging.”
“Oi cin arrange fer ya ta have a bit o’ help with that if ya don’t moind waiting a bit.”
“Or ya could troi it alone.”
“One on one neither of the Farther Brothers’ll be much of a threat to you.”
"I'll try it alone."
"If I go in with other people it might look a little conspicuous."
"Also, it's in a fairly public area; nothing too dangererous would be able to happen without some bad publicity I'd reckon."
Tagg looks out a window at the sky, which is a light shade of blue, a sign that night is beginning to fall.
"Perfect time for a surprise drop-in, dont ya think?"
“Aye, it’s a good toime indeed.”
“Though, Oi really do think ya should wait fer the’elp.”
“The ‘elp Oi ‘ave in moind will make you even less conspicuous.”
Marroc nods at Grack, the half-orc nods back and lumbers away from his post and heads up the stairs.
Marroc looks at Tagg and smiles again.
“Don’t ya be worrying, you’ll be doing all the work. Theres a bit of business with yer ‘elper that needs to be settled. It’ll make yer job a lot easier, but it’ll all still be up to you ta get the job done.”
Grack returns from upstairs, a well dressed halfling dangling from one of his arms.
Marroc! You know I’m good for that washbasin. As soon as I get back from helping Hermy at the temple I’ll pay for it.”
Marroc smiles at the halfling and then Tagg.
“Tagg, me lad, meet Minto Newberry, ‘alfling bard extroidinare.”
Minto smiles at Tagg before refocusing on Marroc.
”And it’s not really Brodda or mines fault. You really shouldn’t put things that close to the bed.”
Marroc nods at Grack who drops the halfling on the ground.
“Minto ‘ere is a spellflinger. ‘e cin cast ya a spell to make ya go invisible for a bit, right Minto?”
Minto looks at Marroc and shrugs.
“It’ll make yer job of sneakin into the ‘ouse a bit easier Tagg me boyo.”
“A it’ll even out tne cost of replacing soime of moi furniture for ole Minto.”
Minto sighs.”I really don’t have time Marroc, I need to be at the tem…”
Marroc cuts him off. “All you need to do is help Tagg find Tumbleweed Street, and then fling a few spells on him.”
“He’ll do the rest. Right Tagg?”
Marroc nods at Grack again. Grack slips into the office and returns holding two very nice looking shortswords.Masterwork weapons
Grack hands the blades to Tagg, and resumes his post by the office door.
Marroc looks at Minto and raises an eyebrow. “Well Minto?”
”I suppose I could, as long as it won’t take up too much time.”
“It won’t. Right me boyo?”
Marroc nods at Tagg, and then continues speaking. “The sooner you get moving thew sooner you cin be done.”
Minto shrugs.”Well lets get started then.”
“Tagg, was it? Well pleased to meet you. I hope Marroc hasn’t tricked you into doing something you’ll later regret.”
“Are you ready? I suppose I can lead you there and help you out a bit.”
“Where exactly are we going Marroc?”
Marroc takes a big puff on his pipe.
“The big yellowish looking ‘ouse on the southend of Tumbleweed Street.”
Minto nods.
”I think we can find that,. If you’re ready follow me then Tagg.”
Minto waits for Tagg to get ready and then heads out the door.
(Next post will be in elsewhere)
"Hello? Is anyone around?"
Wealdy approaches the newcomer
"Can I help you?"
"I was looking for some accomadations, and maybe some work?"
"I can help you with the accomadations, but you'll be needing to speak to Mister Brambleburr about work."
"Well, I'll wait here for him. Meanwhile, I'll have some food, if you've any available"
Wealdy fetches some bread and cheese for Maelut, along with some mead. Maelut pays for the victuals, and settles down to eat.
*Under his breath*
"If I want a job as a cook, it looks like I'll only have to compete with the rats"
"I'm sorry sir, but I had forgotten that mister Brambleburr won't be able to talk to you right away. He's busy with some of his own affairs."
"That's not a problem. I have some things I must take care of in the town. I shall be back later."
[to Market Square]
"Wealdy, don't forget to let mister Brambleburr know that I'm here. I'll be sitting over by the fire"
He settles down to rest by the fire. Looking through his recipie book, he mutters to himself until he drifts off to sleep"
Wealdy finishes pouring Norm his ale and scurries over.
"Theres a fellow over there who wants to talk to you about a job."
Marroc glances over at where Maelut is dozing, and then looks back at Grack and shrugs.
"As wot? Oim doubting 'es a warrior o' much sort, wot with those cooking knives instead of a sword."
Marroc quickily smiles a Grack.
"Ore an axe."
Marroc looks at Maelut again and shrugs again.
" Oi'm doubting 'es looking ta be a bouncer. Ya don't suppose 'es interested in being a cook? Here?"
Well, he is new to town I think."
"Well that moight explain it."
Marroc blows a puff of smoke and watches it drift towards the roof.
"Well, Oi can't say that we couldn't use a new cook. No offense Wealdy, but thats not why Oi 'ired ya."
"Of course not.
"An we 'ave been getting a bit more buisness ever since ole' Cog got 'imself killed by... Well we 'ave picked up a few more regulars that woulda been in 'is place before."
"An a few of them moight actually 'ave tastebuds."
Wealdy frowns, Marroc puts a hand on his elbow.
"An Oi 'ave been meaning ta git ya more involved in the otherside o'me buisness."
Wealdy smiles, Marroc returns the smile but when Wealdy isn't looking shrugs towards Grack.
"Wot da ya say we give 'im a chance ta impress us, eh Wealdy me boyo?"
"Oi've a 'ankerin fer soimething muttonish. Why don't you go wake 'im up an see if 'e any good ?"
"Oi'll be in moi office, 'ave Grack get me when it's ready."
Marroc slips back into his office, and wealdy beaming with pride approaches Maelnut and taps him on the shoulder.
[color=sienna]"Excuse me? Sorry to wake you, but you wouldn't happen to know how to make glazed lamb chops would you? Perferrably with spicey potatoes?"[/color]
"And just a word of advice, avoid anything that might give Grack gas. Like fruits. Or vegtables. He's the big half orc over there."
"Trust me, it's for the best."
Maelut stumbles to his feet, slightly dazed. He stumbles over his words at first, before regaining some composure.
"Oh, I didn't see you, that is to say that I was asleep...I came in earlier to...oh, but you already..."
*clears throat, and begins again, finally understanding the question*
"Lamb chops, sir? I can certainly cook those for you, and not only can I do spicey potatoes, but I can make them mild for the sensitive, and strong as a waraxe for the tall, dark and gassy fellow. All I'd ask as pay is a place in the common room and 2 sp a week."
"I'm also trained in serving special occasions, but that would be extra, depending on the size of the gathering."
"So...what do you say?"
"Mr. Brambleburr is a halfling by the way. You've heard of their legendary eating powers haven't you?"
"Good luck. I really hope you get the job."
Wealdy points towards the kitchen.
"Feel free to use the kitchen, but stay away from the gnome as much as possible."
"She bites."
Wealdy looks around to make sure Billa didn't hear him. He spies her browbeating a customer who only ordered soup and he breathes a sigh of relief.
"As for pay, I'm sure you'll get your own room at least."
"Mister Brambleburr wouldn't trust some of his clients to seek revenge on you for heartburn or indigestion while you sleep."
"I get my own room, Piper gets a stall in the stables, (But that's where he wants to be.) Grack, well he doesn't need a room."
"Billa has a home somewhere withj several children so she pretty much stays here all the time."
"And 2 silver a week doesn't sound unreasonable. Not if you cook good enough."
"He could probably make that back just from Hermy alone."
Wealdy steps behind the bar.
"Go gather your ingridients and get a cooking."
Wealdy grins at his witty remark and gets another ale for Norm.
Grack does not respond.
*muttering to self*
"Well, at least I won't have to worry about the room. If only pop could see me now...he'd laugh himself silly. Me, a real cook! What a riot..."
[to Market Square]
*the gnome turns to Maelut after pouring an ale*
"Hey, what are you doin back there? My nose can't take any more of that poison that Wealdy keeps turning out. You better not be doing the same."
"Don't worry, these herbs will make your nose sing with delight. Just leave me be."
"All right...but don't be expecting any help from me if you light the whole place on fire."
Maelut draws his two cooking knives, and meticulously cleans them of any imperfection until they shine with a mirror finish.
He then prepares the lamb using a recipie that was popular with his father's halfling friends, but adapted to make use of some local spices. Slicing an onion in with the potatoes, grilling them using the lamb's juices, spicing them with everything he can think of, he puts his all into this meal.
For the first time since he left home, Maelut really feels at peace. His cooking gives him comfort, as he settles into a familiar routine.
Once it is prepared, he asks Wealdy to inform the owner that the food is ready. Maelut waits anxiously, his eyes on Marroc's door.
*strolls up to the bar*
"Hello sir, what can I get for you."
*as if not paying attention* "Oh, hello barkeep, I'll have a mug of your cheapest ale"
"That'll be 1 copper."
*hands a silver* "Can you break a silver"
the barkeep nods and hands over a handful of copper coins
*siping his ale he pears around the room looking at its current patrons*
*not looking at Wealdy* "Do you know where someone can get somework around here?"
"You'll have to speak to the boss about that, he's around here somewhere."
Gleamy squints at Boirin, as if he looks slightly familiar
He looks at Maelut.
"Well me boyo, it certainly smells decent. Oi 'ope you made enough fer me an Grack."
Grack does not respond.
Wealdy points to Borin.
"This guys looking for a job as well Marroc."
Marroc motions for Wealdy to go fetch a few plates of food, and then turns his attention to Borin.
"Well Oim not sure Oim 'iring anyone roight now. After Oi 'ave sampled this food Oi'll let ya know if Oi'm in the market fer a new cook though."
Wealdy sets the plate down in front of Marroc and then hands Grack one.
Grack moves to the bar and sets it on the counter, before resuming his post.
Marroc pokes his mutton with a fork and then nods at Grack.
"It's all roight Grack, yya cin take a break."
Grack retreives the food and begins shoveling it in his mouth. His sour expression does not change.
Marroc puts a forkful into his mouth and chews slowly. He swallows and gets another forkfull ready.
"It's not bad."
"Moind ya its not as good as moi mothers but then again nuthing is."
He takes another bite.
"It is a lot better then anything Oi've 'ad around 'ere in awhile though."
He looks at Maelut.
"Oi think ya may 'ave yerself a job."
"Oi'll give ya a week of free board an pay ya a few silver. If ya keep up thia good work, Oi'll keep ya on lomger."
"Wealdy, show 'im a room an pay 'im back fer the cost o' the mutton please."
Wealdy nods and motions for Maelut to follow him up the stairs.
"You can have this room. One of the old bartenders used to use this room until he got all fancy and got himself knighted."
"Don't worry though, I've cleaned it several times since then."
Wealdy pulls out a small coin purse and after finding out how much Maelnut spent on the lamb gives him that much.
"Most times you'll be able to get money for the groceries from me, but if you plan on something extravegent, you'd best ask Mister Brambleburr first."
"He 's a little picky on what he spends his money on."
"No need to get the goodstuff for most of the customers either. Most of them can't tell the differance between an apple pie and a mud pie."
"Save the fancy cooking for the boss and Mister Grack."
Wealdy nods and then heads back down the hall.
"If you play your cards right, you may have found yourself a very secure place in life. Good luck."
"It looks loike that opening fer a cook 'as been filled. An most moi other positions are filled as well."
"Not that Oi can't use a little 'elp with other things everyonce in awhoile."
"Do ya got yerself any useful skills?"
"Well, now I've got a steady job, and Marroc doesn't seem too bad at all. At least he can recognize good cooking when he tastes it."
He takes out the cooking knives from their sheathes and lays them out on his table, admiring his fine craftsmanship. The feeling of being in a new city inspiring an adventurous train of thought.
"I hope I'll get to use these for more than cooking, though. This place doesn't look too peaceful...maybe Marroc will know of some extra things I can do.
And I still fully intend to find out whether I really do have some magic in me."
Smiling to himself, Maelut gets his first good night of sleep since he left home. In the morning, he wakes up and prepares a simple but delicious breakfast, spiced with some of his favorite herbs from home.
"Aparrently this fellow isn't just a cook...he's looking for some adventure, and he said something about having some magic in him. By the looks of him, an adventure would knock the stuffing out of him. Then again, you can always get another cook."
Wealdy retreats back to the bar, while Marroc thinks.
"But I would be more than welcome to washing dishes if you are not in that kind of business."
"Oi'm not in that type o'buisness."
"Oi run an inn. Not the most respectable one in town, moind you, but it's still a legitamate buisness."
"An Oi really don't need a dishwasher. Oi enjoy doing that moiself."
Marroc steps behind the bar and produces a dirty glass and an equally dirty washcloth and begins smudging the glass more.
"An Oi've already got a back up bartender, an a cook, an a waitress, an a security force."
"Oi've got a stable boy as well."
"Oi'm not sure what other positions there are that needs filling."
Marroc looks itowards the game room.
"Well Oi could use someone ta do a bit o' dusting up in the gameroom."
"It's not a full toime position. Oi'd only need yer 'elp once a year or so at most with it."
"But if yer down on yer luck at the moment a few coppers can't 'urt can they?"
"If ya want the work, follow me."
Marroc puts down the glass, grabs his pipe and a tindertwig and starts lighting up his pipe as he heads into the game room.
Grack shifts his stance slightly and stares at Boirin.
After a while, Maelut loses interest in the conversation, and returns to his cooking, trying to reproduce that feeling in his hands. Unsucessful, he still manages to make a respectable meal, and prepares it to be served whenever anyone wants it.
Filling a plate for himself, Maelut sits down at the bar and looks around hopefully.
"Well, I suppose I should stay here for the next couple of days. Once I've got Marroc hooked on my cooking, I'll start looking around for some more exotic assignments. Of course...maybe I won't have to look that far."
He smiles to himself again, and settles down to eat.
"Sorry to insult you with the suggestion that you weren't running a legiamite business."
"So what do you need dusted?"
"Maibe a sense o'caution out o' ya."
Marroc is clearly not a happy little man.
"Ya don't go advertising skills loike that. Especially in a place loike moine. Not unless you've got soimone ta back you up moi boyo."
"Or the people with the backup will snatch ya up."
"It don't much matter wether its the stroikers or the guards either."
"Both of them are about the soime when it coimes down to it."
Marroc paces to and fro, and then pauses to calm himself before changing dorections to walk here and there.
"Those are moighty useful skills ta have, but they cin be taken advantage of real quick if ya aint got yer 'ead screwed on roight."
"An from moi first impression, you don't seem to 'ave that."
Marroc spits.
"Oi really oughta let ya run out an get yerself aquanted with the harsher side o' town."
"Ol' Silver Buttons ain't around anymore, but 'e aint the only one 'ooed like ta teach ya the ropes 'ere in town."
"Well ya do look loike ya could use soime more scars..."
Marroc stares and then sighs and shrugs.
"Or, Oi could spare ya that."
Marroc lights up his pipe and takes a deep puff.
"Wot do you know about serving drinks? Bartendings a great way ta learn 'ow ta moind yer own buisness, an 'ow to not moind others."
"I know something of ales and beers, however I don't really know much about these fancy mixed drinks, but I will learn. I suppose people born in these big cities know how to keep their heads down, and I realise your sticking your neck out here for me, so thanks for not flinging me out of your resturant and calling the watch, or these Strikers on me."
"Wait, don't you allready have a bartender?"
"An thats only fer very special customers. An only Oi serve it unless Oi tell ya otherwise."
Marroc takes a big puff on his pipe and slowly exhales.
"Yer roight about already 'aving a bartender."
"Wealdy does all roight but 'es been a bit overworked since Darkar went an got all fancyboy on us an joined the Jackals."
"Between you an the new cook, 'e moight be able ta get a decent noights sleep at last."
"An due ta recent events Oi aren't going to be able ta spend as much toime watchin the bar as Oi'd like."
He points the end of his pipe at Boirin.
"But don't you dare troi washin tmoi glass!"
He smiles and puts his pipe back in his mouth to inhale a bit of smoke.
"If ya do a good enough job at the bar, Oi might be able ta help ya improve those 'useful skills' o'yers."
"Oi used ta be considered quite fair at 'em myself back in moi adventuring days."
"But ya do need ta keep quiet about 'aving them. At least till ya establish a reputation. That way ya only get the toipe o'people comin after ya that yer prepared to deal with."
"Besides no body loikes a braggart."
"Well except fer bards."
Marroc chuckles a bit.
"The jobs yers if ya want it."
"An if ya don't then no 'ard feelings. Yer still welcome ta coime in."
"Most of moi customers 'ere 'ave the toipe of skills you were talking about earlier."
"Oi don't discriminate."
"Except towards the city guards."
"But only cause they're bad fer buisness."
*walks into the inn*
*nodding to Grack, she and Kywyn walk to a table and sit, waiting for Marroc to finish with his business*
"But Oi've got a job ta do, stay 'ere an think iabout it."
"Oi'll be tendin the bar or in moi office."
"Just let ole' Wealdy know when you've deceided."
Marroc walks out of the gameroom into the common room. After a quick survey of the room he heads towards the table Kywyn and NaShar occupy.
"'ow was yer trip?"
"We got what we went for."
Kywyn glances around the bar.
"We were wondering if there was any news here?"
"Of course that depends on wot koind o'news ya are interested in."
Marroc blows a smoke ring.
"Ol' Widow Drury 'ad 'er 'ouse broken into by thieves last week. They took everything she 'ad that was worth anything."
"An there was a guardsman 'oo got in a foight in the market with a 'alf-orc 'oo thought breaking up a stall was good clean fun."
"An of course there was those miscreants o' 'Ermy's catching a wolf that 'ad wondered into the city. Oi'd never felt sorry fer a wolf before but after Oi 'eard about wot they did to it..."
Marroc shudders and mutters something about ribbons and bows under his breath.
"But Oi doubt thats the koind o'news yer interested in, is it?"
"Hmm...Maybe they'd like something to eat while they talk. My dad always said that good talking needs good eating."
Arranging a couple of plates with some food for the guests, Maelut walks over to the table.
"I hope I'm not interrupting, but I thought you might like something to eat, you look as though you've been very busy recently."
He takes his time setting out the food, continually sneaking glances at the elf.
*never having seen anyone new working here, she turns to Marroc to make sure he's alright, then nods to the young man and smiles slightly*
Greetings. I'm NaShae. And this is Kywyn.
*As the man puts out the food, Palasha (the small bird on her pack), stares at him for a moment before swooping toward a shadowy corner*
*a few seconds later, she comes back, with a small mouse clutched in her beak, which she promptly drops on the table in front of Maelut, then begins to eat her meal, keeping her little black eyes on the new person*
*Shae frowns at the bird*
[swf]Why don't you go out to the stable? There's probably many more mice out there. [/swf]
*Palasha turns to look at Shae, chirping and nipping gently at her fingers, then flys off with her food*
*looks at her food, too used to Palasha's proud displays of her catches for that to ruin her appetite*
*glances up at the man*
I haven't been here much, but I've never seen you here before. Are you new or have we just come here at the wrong times?[/FONT]
.o0(I hope she didn't see me staring at her)
"My name is Maelut Spiceslinger, I'm new to the city. I came here to...seek my fortune, I suppose."
He blushes at saying something that must sounds so silly to an elf.
"I was looking for work, and I've always been a passionate cook. Marroc was very generous, and offered me a position here. It's very exciting, and I'm still getting used to seeing such unusual people coming in at all times of day...."
The cook suddenly turns pale as he realizes what he just said.
"Not that I think you're unusual...well, you are, but not in a bad...oh dear...I didn't mean to...that is to say that I...."
Trailing off, he lapses into silence for a few moments. But the elf's slightly amused expression encourages him somewhat.
"Anyway, I thought that I would bring you some food. I hope I won't spend all of my time in the kitchen, however. I want to get out and see the world...go on adventures."
At this last, he gets a hopeful look in his eyes. Quickly realizing that he is out of place, he drops his gaze to the floor.
"Well, if there is anything else I can do for you, please tell me."
*shakes her head*
No, it's alright. I am unusual, I guess. Thank you for the food.
*tilts her head*
Could we have some water, please?
The overexcited cook stumbles over himself as he runs to fetch some water for the elf and her silent companion.
"Here you are, and I'll leave you to your business. But...if you ever happen to have some time, I would love to speak to you about Elven cooking. I learned the language by myself before I came here so that I could read the recipies in their native tongue. Something about the musical quality of the words seems to carry over to the cooking....but as I said, I've intruded long enough. It was wonderful to have met you..."
The somewhat starstruck Maelut goes back to the kitchen, trying not to trip over every table and chair in the room as he sneaks glances at his exciting new...friend?...aquaintance."
*she turns to Kywyn, then Marroc*
I...I never learned to cook elven food. There's not much I have learned to cook at this point, but it's all human food.
*blushes and looks down at the food in front of her*
*shakes her head and her voice turns quieter as she speaks to Marroc*
Our son, Marroc. Have you heard anything new about Dak? Or is everyone still being tightlipped?
Then he puts the pipe down.
"Well lass, Oi may 'ave learned a little."
"Do ya remember a fellow boi the name of Richard?"
Yes. I remember him.
"Rather talkative lad if ya know the roight questions."
Marroc glances back at Grack, and then picks up his pipe for a big puff of smoke.
"It seems 'e was a friend of ole' Silver Buttons."
"An friends of 'im aren't exactly well liked in their organization any more."
"Especially a certain spell flinger."
"I recon without ole' Silver Buttons ta protect 'im, the rest of the guys on that organization are callin 'im out fer the loon 'e is."
"Just goin' by the fact Oi was able ta talk with this Richard chap about 'im, an Richard is still olive, Oi've got no doubts about that."
"Normally ya only get one chance to interview a Stroiker. An either they come after you, or they go after 'im. Whichever is easier ta soilence."
"Oi talked ta 'im twice."
Marroc blows another smoke ring.
"From wot Oi cin gather, the spellflinger was the driving force beinds troin ta take yer boy."
"Oi couldn't foind out whoi, but Oi think Oi'll be able ta wrangle that out o' someone soon enough."
"In the meantoime though, with the spellflinger being on the outs with the rest of the organization an all, 'is power ta grab yer boy 'as been severly limited."
"Moind ya, a Stroiker is never toothless."
"An a spellflingers got even sharper ones, but Oi think it's only a matter o'toime until soimeone makes a move on Mister Praen, an puts an end ta whatever 'es plannin fer yer boyo."
Good. It seemed that 'Silver Buttons' wasn't in favor at the end either.
*tilts her head, thinking*
He offered me something once. A chance to work for them. I know he had something else in mind... a way to control me or something. I wouldn't have taken it anyway at the time. But...
*shakes her head*
It may be my best way of finding out anything. Unfortunately, I'm known. Or at least I would think so. Someone went though a lot of trouble and I'm not convinced it stops with the wizard.
Would you know how to get in? I have ways of disguising myself, if that would help. But I have to know. And this has to stop. How is Dak supposed to grow up with constant threats like this?
"Aye, Oi moight know 'ow you'd go about joining."
"Oim not sure it's the best oidea though."
"Ya may 'ave a few skills in disguising yerself, but they've got a lot more in seeing through disuises."
"If it were that easy ta get in, Daron woulda 'ad a few men in there when 'e was in charge of the guards. An as far as Oi know 'e didna."
Marroc takes a deep puff on his pipe and leans back in his chair.
"It moight get ya passed the lower -up types though."
Marroc taps his pipe on the table.
"You'd 'ave ta 'ave a bit of patience. Yer not going ta be able ta just walk in and foind out what ya want. No matter 'ow much disfavor Praen is in, 'e's still got soime power."
"An a few friends most likely too."
"Still..."
Marroc takes a few deep puffs.
"Yer friends with Darkar aint cha?"
It depends. He doesn't agree with some of my methods. But I do know him.
*tilts her head*
He's a Jackal, though.
*sighs*
You may be right, though. It's likely not my best idea. But I have time to learn things. And ways other than just asking.
*shakes her head*
But they may know what part I played in.... with 'Silver Buttons'. I'm sure they do, considering that his backup was there and ran away.
Marroc looks very interested for a second and then shakes the look off his face.
"Darkars a Jackal that's true."
"But 'es got a magic 'at that could 'elp you with yer disguise."
"Oi'm not sure if ya could get 'im ta lend it too ya, but it moight be worth troing."
Marroc begins to reload his pipe with tobacco.
"Changing yer loiks is one thing, but what koind of skills do ya got ta offer the Stroikers?"
"Oi know ya cin fling a few enchantments around, but that moight make ya loik a bit suspicious."
"They moight could use a waitress, Oi know ya've got soime skills at that, an it's a great way ta foind things out. But you'd still need a few other things ta offer them."
"They don't accept just everyone."
I have my own magic that can disguise me.
*shrugs*
I have magic. And a few other skills. Opening locks. Hiding. I can be very quiet. And I look a lot more harmless than I am.
"An rather common around 'ere."
"Oi 'ired a new bartender that claims the same skills."
"An Oi've no doubt 'e 'as them."
"Any one without at least soime of them aint going to last two days down 'ere in the slums."
Marroc lights his pipe.
"Da ya 'ave soimthing ta set ya apart from everyone else."
"Oi know ya do, an not just cause of yer magic."
"But wot are ya going to offer them?"
"Are ya willing ta do whatever it takes?"
"Oi know you'll kill ta protect yer family, but are ya willing to 'urt soimeone else ta put money in their pockets?"
"They'll be testing you. Da ya got wot it takes ta pass the test?"
What do you think I have that sets me apart? I know my skills are not anything that others can't do. And likely better than I can.
*shakes her head and raises an eyebrow*
That is what they will not understand. And neither do most. This is for my family. To keep them safe, I'll do anything. And this is only part of that.
To his surprise, without a word spoken, the lines on the table take on a hue. Dim golden light at first, fading through green and finally blue as Kywyn's finger leaves the trail.
Not wanting to draw attention, he leans over the surface in front of him with his elbow, catching NaShae's hand under the table with his free hand.
"I don't know what's going on... I want to kill the spellflinger, I don't want you to do something too dangerous, I want to find a way for some serenity, I..." his thoughts jumble in patterns only NaShae would know.
But on the surface, Kywyn keeps a straight face toward Marroc.
"Wot do ya got? Well Oi'd say yer stubborn beyong belief."
"And yer gunna need that if yer gunna suceed."
His laughing stops.
"But yer also goina 'ave ta curb that temper of yers. The first toime ya try ta stand up ta them will also be the last toime."
"Cin you do that?"
"Because it's not just yer loife or yer families that'll be in danger if ya can't."
"It's moine as well."
Marroc blows out a smoke ring.
"This won't be lokie dealing with drunk customers, or annoying 'eroes."
"These guys are sharp as knoves an twice as deadly."
"An they're use ta getting wot they want, when they want it."
Marroc leans forward.
"Oi know ye'll do anything ya can ta protect yer son and me boyo Kywyn. But are ya sure this is the best way?"
I've dealt with them, and others like them, before. I know how to control my temper.
*laughs and shakes her head*
No, I'm not sure. But I've been going along with whatever's been thrown at me for a while now. Trying to clean up after.
I've got to do something to take more control of the situation. Maybe stop something before it happens. Maybe have a bit of warning.
*shrugs*
I don't know. I can't just sit by anymore. And there's nothing else I can think to do about that.
*under the table, squeezes Kywyn's hand*
I know, beloved. But I have to do something. I'll be careful. You know I will.[/FONT]
"I know you will. But it doesn't help."
"Oi just want ta make sure yer not rushing inta things without thinking them out."
Marroc takes another deep puff and looks at Kywyn for a second before turning back to NaShae.
"Oi cin set soimthing up ta get you yer introduction in."
"But once yer in yer on yer own."
"You won't be able ta coime in 'ere for more 'elp without blowing yer cover."
"Or near Kywyn."
"And it won't be an easy or short task."
He takes another puff from his pipe.
"Theres a few not so bad folks involved wuth them, but you'll 'ave ta figure out fer yerself which ones those are."
"And theres at least one fellow there that ya moight be able ta trick to yer side fairly easy."
"Oi can't tell ya 'oo, but 'ies got is own motivations fer joining them just loike you do."
Marroc blows out more smoke.
"'ow soon do ya want to get started?"
"It'll take me a few days at least ta set up a contact."
"Or ya could troi ta set up yer own if yer in a big 'urry."
"But Oi think spendin a few days coimin up with yer disguise an backstory would be the best idea."
"Oi wouldna count on yer magic anymore then ya afta."
"It'll only take one spell fer them ta see through that. An yer going want ta save as much of yer magic fer emergancies, Oi guarantee you that."
Marroc takes another puff and another glance at Kywyn.
"An Oi don't suppose spendin a few days with Kywyn will 'urt you much either."
"Oi'd 'ate ta see 'im moping around more then nessasary."
Marroc smiles and turns to look across the room at Grack.
Grack does not respond.
Marroc turns back to the sorcerors.
"Is there anything ya cin think of that Oi cin 'elp with?"
[i]We've both been in bad situations. Had to do things that were dangerous. Things we didn't want to do. I need to stop this all.
Praen will be gone. And so will Richard, but I don't know if that's where it all stops and there's not another way to find it. [/i]
*frowns*
I won't do this if you ask me not to. But I think it needs to be done. [/FONT]
"We should find out if the crystal I have will work to keep track of you, or if it would give you away."
"Do you think we need to move on this right away? What about your mother's condition and checking on Dak?"
I'll have to leave Kywyn??
*nods, looking very miserable*
I guess that makes sense. It would be suspicious if they watched me.
*turns to look at Kywyn*
I definitely need a few days. Maybe a bit more than that.
*shakes her head*
I'm tempted to ask for a few days to decide if this is even the right thing.
"You cin back out any toime before that."
Marroc gets up and starts walking towards the bar.
"Spendin a few days thinking it over is the smortest thing ya could do roight now."
"There moight be other ways."
"See wot ya cin coime up with an check back with me when ya've decided what yer going to do."
Marroc hops behind the bar and waves Maelut over.
"Give them somethin ta take 'ome fer dinner. Oi don't think they should be wasting their toime with cooking roight now."
[i]I.... I don't know. There should be a way to get to see Dak. And a way to work on my mother's condition. It may take some work, but I think it can be done.
And I'll find a way to see you. I couldn't do this without you.
[/i]
[/FONT]
Thank you, Marroc. We'll let you know what we decide in a few days, then we'll work from there.
I hope we can find another way.
He leans closer to NaShae, lifting his arm to see the runes faintly showing on the table.
"You mean let everything run at the same time."
*brushes her hand along his face*
[color=blue]It's what I have been doing. Everything always runs at once.
That's how the world works. Most just let themselves see what they need to do or can effect.
Like Gamis. He sees only what he needs to do next, if he knew about the Strikers, the others, any of this, the way we do.... I'm not sure what he would do, but I don't think he would be able to handle things. His view is too narrow. So are most people's.
[/color]
*smiles softly*
Weren't you the one who said that first? Or something like that, at least.
[/FONT]
"Here you are, I hope you enjoy it. It's one of my personal favorites, a mix of Elven and Dwarven styles...odd, but it works."
He smiles again, but notices the somewhat more somber mood of everyone at the table. He nods to the elf and her companion, and then disappears back to the kitchen.
Thank you, Maelut.
"The last time I saw a elf...3 years ago...the kobold raiding parties."
He remembers how his town had organized a militia to fight of the raiders, he had enlisted, but couldn't afford a sword. His cooking knives were his only weapons, but they proved to be very effective.
But...the village was losing people. Many had given up hope, until a group of elves miraculously appeared. They seemed to dance as they fought, as though they didn't need to touch the filthy kobolds to kill them.
"We beat them...most of them anyway."
Maelut's mind goes back to the small group of kobolds that had survived. They'd left the area of the village, and were last seen heading roughly this direction. That was part of what had drawn him to this city...maybe he would find the kobolds that had killed his friends.
"Marroc seems to know much of what goes on here. If there are kobolds around, he would know. I'll ask him in the morning...after breakfast."
Eventually his eyes succumb to sleep. But his dreams take him back to the horrible images of flea-ridden kobolds killing and maiming his friends.
*taking the wrapped food with them, they head out to their apartment to discuss things*
[to Elsewhere]
"Sure, I'll take the job, its the kinda thing my father would approve of."
"So what type of ale do we have on tap?"
"A fothers approval is a good thing if yer asking me."
He motions to the various kegs they have.
"Dwarven Dark Ale, we don't get many dwarves in 'ere, mainly just Brodda, but when we do, they seem ta loike this as a chaser fer their spirits."
"Brodda, gets the good stuff, this 'ere Greycloak ale. Occasionally Minto moight order it too, but 'is taste buds aren't as good as 'e thinks. Ya cin usually give him this Cream Ale 'ere an 'e won't know the differamce."
"'Eres a noice red ale, we've got a few customers that request this, but most of them just want what Oi loike ta call. 'The Cheap Stuff", he points to the kargest of the kegs. "Every once in awhuile soime fool will order a elven ale."
"If that happens poor a drop or to of the cheapstuff inta a mug and fill it the rest of the way up with water."
Marroc then starts pointing out wine bottles.
"We've got that one there that I like to keep always corked. Never open that one. An when the others start ta get empty. Pour a bit o'water into them."
"Drunks can't usually tell."
"Once its all water though, ya moight hafta get a new bottle."
"We keep them in the back. Wealdy'll show you where later."
"Pour the new bottle into the old ones in equal parts."
"Occasionally ya moight 'ave a customer that knows their wine. When that 'appens.... 'oo am Oi kidding, it aint 'appened yet."
"Roight. Where was Oi? Oh yeah, roight the wine."
"Theres a few customers ya want to be noice too, if they ask fer woinew in a new bottle yah cin go get them one."
"Wealdy 'll show you which new bottles 'ave been watered down, an which ones 'aven't been."
Marroc starts pointing out a few of the harder drinks.
"Dwarven spirits, Scary Dwarven Spirits, Orcish Wine, Old Red Eye, Halfling Eldererry, (Don't give that one ta anyone under four feet tall, it aint worth the trouble), we've got a few different toipes of Gnome liquors."
"Anyone ask fer soimithing we aint got just pour soime of this."
Marroc points to a bottle with a skull and crossbones on the label.
"They won't remember wot it was they asked for after that."
Marroc hops to thew front of the bar and takes a seat.
"Now 'ow about giving me a mug o' the goodstuff."
"That's good stuff that, smells pretty much like what we drink back home, but only taste will tell and I ain't got the money fer that."
"Do you have a rag I could use to wipe down the bar with, just feels like what you have to do as a barkeep."
"You sure Wealdy won't mind about me doing his job."
"Oi'll 'ave ya yer own towel tamorrow."
"Yer rooms the secomd from the end at the top of the stairs. Wealdy will give ya a key."
"An don't ya be worrying about 'im. Oi'll be keeping 'im plenty busy."
Marroc gets his ale, motions Wealdy over and then hops down and heads into his office.
"Oh, an keep yer ears open fer anything interesting."
Marroc steps into the offuice closing the door behind him and locking it with a loud click.
nods aprovingly and hops over the bar
.oO (now i've got a job, and a place to sleep, and by the smell of the stuff that Maelut was cooking, good food to eat)
walks out the bar grinning
[to elsewhere]
walks in looking slightly digected
Wealdy speaks from behind the bar "Goodevenin' I see your back from whatever it is you do, would you like your key?"
"Yah, thanks, I would like that alot."
"Well come here then" Wealdy leads Boirin up the stairs to his room, then hands him a key
"Thanks Wealdy, I'll see you in the mornin."
Wealdy "Be up early, I'll show you where the wines and such are. Gonite"
Boirin unlocks his door and stumbles into his room shutting and locking the door behind him, and for the first time in days, sleeps in a bed
"This city is going to take some getting used to. I suppose I'll get used to the noise just like everyone else."
Bathing, and putting on his cooking attire, he goes downstairs and starts the day's cooking. As he prepares the food, he sees Marroc wander towards him, obviously hungry.
"Good morning sir, I'll have your breakfast ready in just a minute."
The two exchange some pleasantries, and Maelut begins to ask about the city.
"This city seems pretty peaceful at the moment. It seems unnatural. Are there ever problems with raiding parties, or the like?"
Outside he hears the sound of a blacksmith hard at work
"Ah, just like home."
cleans up a bit, dawns his "streat clothes" and heads downstairs to his first day of bartending
[downstairs]
"Goodmorning Maelut, how are you this fine day?"
.oO(I sure hope I can remember everything)
"I'm well, thank you."
.o0(Another new worker here...Marroc must have his hands full. I wonder what he thinks about this city. Oh well...maybe he and I will talk later.)
He returns to the conversation with Marroc...curious for the latest news.
"What can I get you mam?"
"wha?...oh, a picher of water and a clean glass please."
"There ah' go miss, is there anything else you'd be wanting today? We now have an exellent new chef who cooks quite tasty food."
.o0(Hmm...he's obviously busy with his own affairs. This is a bad time to talk to him, I'll come back later.)
Grunting with an equally meaningless purpose, Maelut heads off into town.
[to Elsewhere]
Returning with his groceries, Maelut heads back to the kitchen to prepare the next meal. Once it has started cooking, he goes out to the tables and sits down by the fire; relaxing after a long day.
Grack of course never whispers back, but to anyoe watching closely he does nod and grimace in responce.
He doesn't even seem to try listening in on conversations today.
Finally, he harumphs, and takes a seat in the kitchen.
Holding his head between his hands, he rolls his eyes at the noise coming from the common room.
"Cook? Were ya askin aboot raiding parties earlier?"
Marroc runs his hand through his hair and sighs.
"We get a few around 'ere occasionally."
"Usually the Silver Sword or the Jackals deal with 'em"
"But Oi'm not sure either is in much shape ta be doin' that roight now."
"The Jackals were just aboot wiped out not to long ago, an the Silver Swords been troing to 'elp train the new recruits an takin care of personal matters."
"Whoi were ya askin? Ya aint thinkin' of going out an troi ta earn a living as an adventurer were ya?"
"It would be a great waste o'yer talents."
"Any one cin go stab a few goblins, but it takes skill ta bake a good soufflle''."
"I know it isn't the most epic battle, but it was...fun. Sounds silly to go risk my life to have fun, I know. Still, I'd like to try."
Maelut pauses, trying to decide what to tell Marroc.
"And I was talking to one of the magic-users in town. He thinks I might have some magical abilities in me. He said a good way to bring them out is in dangerous situations. I'm not gonna find any of those sitting in the kitchen."
"Anyway, I was just curious. Besides, how many adventuring parties would turn down a cook who's good with his knives?"
"Back before Oi became respecatable."
Marrocs lips curl into a small smile.
"Don't ya go worrying about loosin' yer job if ya cin foind yerself an adventure. Wealdy cin 'andle the kitchen. Oi aint given 'im 'is new assoignment yet any 'ow."
"Moind ya, Oi won't be payin' ya whoile yer out galavanting about savin' the world an that koinda nonsense."
Marroc takes out his pipe and starts to pack it.
"Yer going to wanna foind soimone ta go adventurin' with o'course."
"Oi know a few people 'oo moight be interested in that. Boirin, the new bartender fer one."
"As ta wot ta go adventurin for, well if ya give me soime time I might be able ta foind out where the action is."
"Oi've got a few conections 'oo keep up with that toipe o'thing."
Marroc lights his pipe, and blows out a puff of smoke.
"Oi'll get ta work on that now."
Marroc exits the kitchen and heads for the door out of the inn.
He stops to nod at Grack, and then hits the streets.
Grack does not respond.
(OOC: I'll have something for you fairly soon. By the weekend at the latest. Just keep yourself busy until I can get the ball rolling.)
Excited by the prospect of an adventure, Maelut can hardly focus on his cooking. But, as he finally settles down to preparing the meal, the strange warmth comes into his hands again. The food tastes its best, more typical of a palace than an inn.
"There it goes again...I wonder what it means."
Maelut puts together some food for the customers, and then prepares two plates. One for himself, and one for Boirin. Taking them over to the bartender, he sits down and tells him about what Marroc had said.
"So, does it sound like something you'd be interested in?"
*pats sword hilt familiarly*
"Just as long as what we're doing isn't say assasinations, I'd be more than happen to come along."
*grins hugely
"Anyway, any excuse to see what you cook like in less comfortable situations would always be fun."
"I'm sure it'll be more like hunting down an escaped bunny rabbit...but still, any excuse to see what's out there. I've always heard stories of the famous heroes, but none of them could cook... Maybe I'll be the first!"
He smiles at this, and tightens his knife belt. Trying not to seem utterly terrified at leaving the safety of the city.
.o0(I want to go adventuring. Really I do. It'll help me develop my skills. I'm not scared out of my mind. The thought of going into the wilderness doesn't fill me with dread. Really, it doesn't...)
Maelut contains his thoughts, and tries to seem brave.
"I'll cook better under an open sky than I can in any kitchen. You'll see."
He pauses.
"Well, I should get back to my cooking. If Marroc has something for us, we'll need to find some help with getting things together."
After a few seconds, he retreats back to the comfort and familiarity of the kitchen.
"I know its none of my business, but you seem awfully hot to go kill some kobalds, they did something to you. I know what it feels like, and you can hate them all you want, but you can only kill so many of 'em."
"And no matter how many you kill, they still did whatever they did to you, and killing and hating them doesn't change that. And at the end of the day when its all said and done, you'll still feel as angry as you ever did."
"Now I'm not saying you shouldn't get some adventuring experiance under your belt, I'm as eager to get some as you, but I am saying that revenge only does so much, and eventually you have to except what happened."
Turns and walks back up to his room, unlocks the door, and steps through into his room. Locks the door.
Leans heavily against the door
"Ye, gods, I'm starting to sound like my father. When will I learn to mind my own bussiness."
strips down and washes up, then lays down and closes his eyes
.oO(I hope I can still manage to keep Maelut on my good side, it'll be nice to have someone to watch my back.)
lets his thoughts drift and slips into sleep
.o0(He seems like a well-meaning kid, but there's a lot of complications here that he can't understand. It's nice to know that someone's concerned about me, though.)
He begins grabbing mugs, plates, glasses and most everything he can that is breakable and carrying them to the kitchen.
He looks to Grack and waves five fingers across his forhead.
Grack tightens his grip on his axe.
Billa and Wealdy see the sign as well, and hurry with filling the orders they have already taken. And then refuse to take more.
Billa grumbles. "He knows they are coming, you'd think he'd do something to stop them."
Wealdy nods.
Marroc looks at them. "Whoi would Oi stop them? Oi invited them."
Even Grack looks at him strangely.
Marroc smiles. And then gathers up Boirin and Maelut.
"Oi've found ya a few 'elpers fer yer little adventure."
"Expieranced adventurers the lot o'them. "
Billa chortles in the background.
"An Oi found ya an adventure as well."
"Ya wouldn't 'appen ta be interested in roundin up a few goblins would ya?"
"Rumour 'as it a decent soized group of them ere spotted not to far away from the city."
"The Jackals,"Marroc does not seem to be happy saying that word, "'ave already taken care o' that Oi 'ear."
"But theres a few scragglers left . The Silver Sword is going after a few o'those, but theres not enough o'them available roight now."
Marroc looks around the room.
"Oi've toiked ta a friend in the guild an 'e wanted me ta know if Oi knew anyone 'oo could 'elp out a few of 'is boys."
"Oi told 'im Oi moight."
"Was Oi roight about that?"
"The Jackals? I wouldn't have thought they'd need the help. But, I won't question it. I'd be glad to go with people who know what they're doing; it'll help me avoid getting dead."
"Goblins, huh? Filthy little things, from what I've heard. I'll have to get my knives cleaned after this. And they probably won't have any recipies worth learning. Drat."
He realizes that he's blathering on, and stops himself.
"Yes, I'm in. Boirin, what about you?"
"Goblins you say, well if we're in a group and theres not to many of them it would probably be safe enough for me to go. Anyways, these filthy creatures might have some treasure worth partacing of."
"So, yah, I'm in. When do we start."
"Well me boyo, these Jackals we got ourselves now aint really Jackals."
"Most o'them were wiped out boi the orcs an dragons at 'Ents Manavelins, the guys runnin around the palace aren't much expieranced then you two."
Marroc shakes his head again.
"An Oi never said they guys you were goin with knew wot the were doing neither. Oi said they were expieranced adventurerers. A good percentage of adventurin' is just luck."
"That's wot yer companians got going fer them."
"You two will be the brains beind it all."
Marroc heads behind the bar.
"An ya start just as soon as 'Ermy's followers get 'ere."
"Oi aint 'eard no terrified screams or yelps from small animals so you've still got a bit o'toime ta get ready."
"Thats wot Oi'm going to do."
Marroc grabs a bottle of dwarven spirits and then enters his office and locks the door.
"Well, at least they've got luck. My dad always said that luck's better than skill, especially when it's all you've got."
He thinks for a moment, and then realizes something crucial.
"Wait! I can't risk taking my recipie book out where some filthy goblins might get their grubby hands on it. But I can't just leave it in my room either..."
.o0(Hmm...I wonder whether my friend from the magic shop would be willing to hold onto it for me.)
"Wealdy! Quickly, please come over here. I need a favor from you. Please take this book, and this silver piece to Natala's Store in the town. It's extremely important. Tell Codrian that it's my recipie book, and that I would like for him to look after it in the shop while I'm gone. I'm sure it won't be too much trouble for him, since he has all those expensive magical thingys there anyway."
He fetches the book from the kitchen and gives it to Wealdy, along with a silver piece.
"Thank you so much, it's very important to me."
Wealdy leaves, to Natala's Mystic store.
"Well, I should go upstairs and check that I'm all ready for whatever's coming next."
A short while later, Wealdy returns, having left the book with Codrian.
.oO(So this whole adventuring thing is accually goin' to work out, I should get ready)
"Wealdy, I'll be in my room if anyone needs me ok."
heads up to his room and begins to prepair his things
*enters the Inn and knocks some of the dirt from his boots*
*he goes over to the bar and waits for Marroc to notice him*
The moment Silis enters he notices the entire bar staff watching the door except Marroc.
And Marroc is out of his office before Billa has a chance to complain about the mud.
Marroc 's reaction is mixed upon seeing who has just entered. He looks both frustrated and relieved.
He waves Silis to a seat at the bar.
"Oi ain't seen you in awhoile . Almost thought ya 'ad gone back 'ome."
"Wot 'ave ya been up to lad.?"
"Soimethin important Oi'll warrant. Other woise you'd a been 'elpin yer brother out with 'is problems Oi'm sure."
Marroc gets an empty glass and holds it out.
"Cin Oi get ya anything?"
*Silis's face shows no sign of shock, with the exception of a deep breath*
"Not as much as I should have been up to. Can I get something to quench a serious thirst?"
"Oi think this moight do the trick."
Marroc glances past Silis to the door, before focusing on the young sorcorer again.
"'aven't been up ta much."
" Oi 'aven't 'eard that sayiin much recently."
"It seems everyones always off adventurin, or tryin ta foind an adventure ."
"Even moi two newest employees."
"They aint been 'ere more then a couple o'days an their already wantin ta 'ead back out."
Marroc lights up his pipe.
"It's a bit refreshin ta 'ear a lad say 'e's not been up ta much."
*he puts the glass down, half emptied, and looks up at Marroc*
"It's all about perspective. Not much to some is too much to others."
*he shakes his head as the alcohol hits his stomach*
*his mind drifts back to Verinal's words*
"What's this about an adventure?"
"A few o'moi lads are 'eading out with 'Ermy's boys ta track down a few goblins that are roamim about."
Marroc chuckles a bit more and takes the glass and tops it off again.
"It's not the most dangerous bit o'adventure but Oi think 'eading out with those Brannon Runners is 'eroic enough."
Marroc blows out a smoke ring.
"Ya seem ta got yer brothers knack fer broodin, da ya got 'is knack fer spell flingin' as well?"
"If yer interested in a bit o'excitment, 'avin a spell flinger about never 'urts."
"On adventures that is. There's not much call fer them in a bar."
"That is unless you've also got yer brothers sense ta try ta stay out o'trouble."
"Not that it does 'im much good moind ya."
"Oi swear 'e'd foind less excitement if 'e went lookin fer it."
Marroc takes another deep puff.
"Seems that's the way it works. And yes, I do have his 'knack' but it's of a somewhat different sort than his. Not as harmful. Well, not yet at least. I'd be glad to have a chance to go and test myself. When do we leave?"
"As soon as the rest o' the lads get 'ere."
"Oi imagine it won't be too much longer."
"Theres only so much they cin damage on the way 'ere."
Marroc calls over Boirin and Maelut.
"Maelut. Boirin. This 'ere is Silis. 'E's the brother o' a friend o'mine."
"An a spell flinger."
"Oim thinkin 'e could 'elp ya out a bit."
"Whoi don't ya get 'im a bit ta eat while we wait fer the rest o'yer group."
Marroc takes a big puff and meanders over to the door and looks out.
"Better make it somethin small though."
"They'll be 'ere soon boi the sound o'things."
*he bows his head in greetings*
"Hello."
*his eyes flick over the two*
"Are you warriors?"
"I am Boirin son of Naerin, of the Ironmug clan."
"I am a warrior of sorts but I could be best described as a specialist"
*he replaces his gauntlet on his hand after firmly shaking Boirin's hand*
"I could say the same for myself. I have some warrior training, but they were more focused on the mental aspects of combat rather than the physical ones. As Marroc said, my main strength his in my magic."
"Anyways if things get particularly nasty, goblins might be scared of cetain aspecs of arcane magic."
"It'd be an honer to have ya on board."
"They might be, but they might not. Goblins and their like have a callousness that lets them spit at the rest of us."
*he raises his glass*
"Which is all the more reason for me to wish to be rid of them."
*he takes a drink*
"This is probablly true, and you are right. We need to get rid of these goblins quickly."
"So we will have to get this done soon. I hope our associates will get here soon so we will be able to act."
"As do I. Do you know who these associates are to be? Marroc didn't give me many details."
"No, all I know is that you and I and Maelut and a group that Marroc called Hermy's followers."
shaking his head
"No," Boirin says again, "no, Marroc has said nothing to me about who they are and when we will be starting out."
"I guess we have some time to kill then."
*he drinks some more of his ale*
"So tell me, how did you come to Garic's?"
"They're 'ere."
Billa flinches and Wealdy pales slightly.
Voices can be heard approaching the inn.
"Marroc'll 'ave apples. Ya cin look at 'im an tell that e'll eat anything."
"Even a 'orse?"
"Woof!"
"'alflings don't eat horses."
"Only orcs an gnomes do."
"Hey!"
"Oi bet 'e'll be so 'appy ta see us that 'ell get us all drunk."
"I'm not sure that would be a good idea."
"Whoi not? Wese 'eroes. We deserve a good drink."
"Ya ifen it weren't fer us that rat moight have eaten the city's cheese supply!"
Seven young halflings boys and a gnome girl all dressed in red pants and green shirts barge into the inn.
They ascend on the bar like flies and begin reaching over it towards the glasses.
""ey there Marroc. "
"Give us soime apples!"
"Hey is that a half-orc?"
"Yeah throw soimethin at 'im. It's fun, 'e don't even blink."
Marroc moves everything out of the halflings reach, and turns to Boirin, Silis, and Maelut.
"Meet your adventuring companians."
Marroc begins pointing at some of them.
"That's Davvo Sandoven, and Oi think that ones a Shrimptown. Mick, Oi believe."
"The one with the crazy look to 'm is Vivvo Savage."
"That ones Dirkko Smalls an the one with 'is hand stuck in moi glass,"Marroc takes the dirty glass from the halfling,"Is Nige Toughnail. Yer gunna 'afta keep a close eye on 'im. "es not all together there."
"Oi think the taller one there is Dirkko Smalls and the two that look alioike are Tealeafs."
"Which ones are you boys."
"I'm Phill. He's Will."
Marroc nods.
"And the gnome lass.. Oi never did catch 'er name."
"Billa? Do you know 'er?"
Billa scowls and shakes her head. "I aint never seen her before in my life."
Marroc shrugs.
"Anyways, these are the 'eroes yer gunna be 'unting goblins with."
The halfling horde stop hitting each other and look at Marroc, Maelut, Silis and Boirin.
"We're goin' adventurin?"
"Oi didna bring moi lucky stick, Oi'll 'ave ta go get it."
"Good thing we goit swords aint it."
"Oi wanna be a govblin. Gobble-gobble!"
"Oi cal firsts on killin soimethin!"
Marroc looks almost apologetic as he faces the sorceror and his employees.
"Are ya still sure yer a wantin ta go 'unting?"
.oO(Mother above...)
*he takes a deep breath and finishes his drink after Marroc introduces the lot*
*he turns to Maelut and Boirin*
"The sooner we begin, the sooner we can end."
.oO(Oh, dear gods why did it have to be me)
"Sure... these heros... well I'm sure they can help some way."
leaning over to Silis, and wispering
"Do you have the feeling that we're going to come out of this with less than we started with?"
"Depends on you definition of 'less'. I'm not 'going in' with very much, so anything I get out will most likely be 'more'."
"Oi coulda swore Oi 'eard a dragon, or at least a very big troll movin' around in there last moight."
The halfling boys, (and gnome girl) charge out the door, Wealdy trying very hard to keep up.
Marroc sighs.
"Oi'm sorry aboot this. Oi don't think ya wanted yer adventure ta turn inta a babysitting session."
"Them boys aren't as incompetent as they act though."
"Five of them survoived incredibile odds at 'Ent Manavelians."
"There's more an a few of the cities foinest 'oo can't claim as much."
Marroc looks to the ground for a minute before looking at the adventurers again.
"Don't ya worry though. Oi aint sendin ya ta just go traipsin around in the woods ta give the city a break from them boys."
"Them gobo's are out there."
"Oi'll give ya instructions ta where one of the groups was last seen 'ere in a minute. Foirst Oi want ta foind out wot yer plan is."
"Other then stayin aloive of course."
Marroc smiles and lights up his pipe.
"Oi'm just recommendin soimthin 'ere, ya don't 'ave ta take moi advise. But it wouldna 'urt ya ta consider it."
"If ya cin get them boys ta shut their traps, they're an extremely quiot group."
"If ya cin trick them inta settin up an ambush, ya cin get them out of yer 'air whoile ya go foind the gobbos."
"An then ya've got them ta fall back on if ya need ta, or at least don't 'ave ta worry so much about one of them accidently gettin in yer way."
Marroc blows out a smoke ring and watches it float to the roof.
"'ow ya do that is up ta you though."
"Oi'm sure you'll coime up with soimthin."
.o0(I wonder whether that's one of the people that will be going with us?)
Once he reaches the bar, he greets the newcomer.
"Hello, I'm Maelut Spiceslinger. Part-time militia in my village, full time cook here. Are you going to be coming with us to hunt the goblins?"
"My magic may be able to help. I can send the goblins to sleep, so we may be able to capture a scout and question him to fomulate a plan."
*he looks to Maelut and Boirin for other ideas*
Tagg maneuvers through the streets and is soon rewarded with the familiar sight of Nobody's Inn. He walks though the door, seeing Wealdy at his regular post, chasing a fly around the counter with what looks like .... a shoe?
. . .
Tagg sets the two swords in his hands onto a nearby table and removes the borrowed weapons from various holsters placing them next to the others.
"Hi there Wealdy." Tagg calls out to the barkeeper who up to now has not recognized the elf's entrance.
Wealdy hits at the fly one more time unsuccessfully before placing the boot-esque object down and turning attention to Tagg.
"Oh, hello. Didn't see you come in..."
"No problem. And look at this object here..." Tagg quietly slips the ring out of his pocket, places it on the counter in front of Wealdy and smiles.
After a few moment of waiting for the barkeeper to register the information, he returns the grin.
"Why, is that..."
"Yep."
"Aye, Marroc will be gurtly pleased! Just wait a few moments and I'm sure he'll be out soon."
Tagg nods and walks over to the table with the weapons on them and takes a seat.
Marroc excuses himself from Maelut, Boirin and Silis and goes to meet the ranger.
He takes the ring and puts it in his pocket without looking.
"Ya got yer personal buisness wrapped up then eh?"
"Good, Oi've got soime buisness ye cin do fer me."
He waves over the others.
"These guys are about ta 'ead off ta do a bit o' gobbo 'untin."
"An they cin use all the 'elp they cin get."
"Tagg, meet moi new cook Maelut, an bartender Boirin."
"The one therew lookin' all moody an depressed is Silis. 'Es a spellflinger."
"Guys, meet Tagg, 'e's a skilled ranger. 'e'll make trackin those gobbos dowm a lot easier."
"An any lost boys as well."
Marroc nods at Wealdy, and Wealdy goes towards the back to get the halfling army.
"It loiks loike yer ready ta go then."
"'ead out the south gate an 'ead fer the woods."
"Tagg should be able ta pick up a trail or too."
"Just foind an destroy. It's usually the best option when ya got a gobbo problem."
"Sure ya cin interogate them, but yer not likely ta foind out anythin ya couldn't foind out some way easier."
Marroc puffs on his pipe.
"Any loot shuld be divided equally o'course. Between the four o'you."
"If ya keep it secret enough the boys won't even know there was treasure."
"Their in it fer the 'eroics. Not the money."
"If they do foind out Oi think givin 'em a share moight be a noice thing ta do. Not nessasary though."
"But ifen ya foind yerself pelted with ewggs everytoime ya go fer a walk ya moight be able ta figure out whoi."
Marroc chuckles.
"One share for the 'ole group at most though."
"Their coming along as a favor ta them, not ta you."
The halfling army hustles into the inn, eager ta be off. They scuttle around for position and punch each other repeatedily.
Marroc watches for a sccond and then shakes his head in frustration. He turns back to Tagg, Silis, Maelut, and Boirin.
"Good luck, me boyos."
He smiles.
"Now get them terrors out o'ere. Their scarin off the lcustomers."
The halfling horde takes off in a rush, the others having to run to catch up.
(Moving to an adventure thread. Post there from now on.)
Spotting NaShae and Kywyn he hurries over to them.
"Yer 'ere already? Oi'm 'avin a bit of a problem foinding moi source. Oi'm gunna need a few more days."
Marroc stops himself and then smiles.
"But Oi'm sure the two o'ya cin find soimethin ta occupy that toime can't ya?"
He winks.
That's not what we came here for. We came to ask for at least a couple weeks, the potion for my mother should be ready very soon and we need to get it to her.
"Ya cin never be too prepared."
"Oi'll keep working on setting things up, an you go take care of yer mother."
Marroc whispers.
"An when ya come back, don't let anyone know."
"It'll be a lot easier ta sneak you in, if everyone thinks you are out o'town."
Thank you, Marroc.
*speaks more quietly*
That was what I had thought as well.
"Well Oi think ya moight do fairly well then. Yer gunna need ta think loike that ta survive there."
Marroc pulls out his pipe and starts to fill it.
"Any thing I cin do fer ya before ya go?"
No, thank you, Marroc. You've done quite a bit to help us. Hopefully everything can be settled as soon as possible.
"'ave a safe trip. "
Marroc lights his pipe and takes a seat next to the fire.
Thank you, again, Marroc.
*walks with Kywyn out into the streets, heading back toward their apartment*
[To Elsewhere]
Boirin steps into the Inn, and looks around at the usual crowd, and then goes to Marroc
"Well I'm back, Maelut should be around here somewhere, I'll be down in a bit"
Boirin walks up to his room, dumps his stuff on the floor, peels out of his clothes, washes up, puts on clean clothes and heads back downstairs, he then heads behind the bar
Maelut enters the Inn after having retrieved his recipie book from Natala's shop. He silently carries his pack up to his room, and cleans himself up before returning downstairs.
Once in the kitchen again, he spends several minutes polishing his knives, and then settles down to resume his duties.
As he cooks, he thinks out loud.
"Hmm...with all that gold I've got, maybe I could afford to make myself some better cooking tools. Or maybe even get some better knives to fight with."
OoC: Profession(cook) check for this week, minus room and board
Then he strips out of his clothes and washes some of the blood off his wounds, and climbs into bed
.oO(That wasn't so bad, you'll have to go out adventuring again sometime)
Quickly Boirin falls into a deep. dreamless, sleep
He opens his eyes, and looks around the room until he sees the mace that he took off the goblin's body. He picks it up, the head of the weapon still stained with his blood, and hangs it up on an empty hook across from his bed.
.o0(Something to reassure me that things will always work out.)
After a quick wash, he heads downstairs and prepares the food for the day. He keeps an eye out for Marroc, hoping to have a chance to tell him about the adventure.
As he walks down he spots Maelut, and smells breakfast
"Goodmorning, boy that smells good. How are you today."
As he speaks he steps behind the bar and starts idly polishing the counter
He speaks to Wealdy
"If Marroc comes looking for me tell him I'm going for a walk ok."
Boirin steps out of the Inn into the fresh air
[To Elsewhere]
[To Market Square]
Maelut hurries through the door with his purchases and takes them up to his room. Quickly tossing everything on his bed, he locks his room and then heads back downstairs to prepare dinner.
"I hope nobody's been waiting for me. I've been buying some supplies in town, but I promise it's been worth the wait. I found some fresh alporantis root for the meat tonight."
*she finally spots the Inn, having taken a wrong turn or two from not being used to a city like this
*hurrying her pace she gets to the door and pushes it open, peering inside to make sure it would be safe for her
Hello? Does anyone mind if I step in?
*not really minding her own words, she steps into the Inn and looks for the Innkeep
"Hello, my name is Maelut Spiceslinger. This is Marroc Brambleburr's inn. I take care of the cooking, and Boirin, the bartender, is somewhere around here. We're both pretty new to this city, although you look like you're newer than us."
For the first time, Maelut notices the elf's road-weary clothes, and her incredibly slight frame.
"You look like you've been on quite a journey. Please come sit over here by the fire, and I'll fetch you some food."
He fetches a plate of food and some water from the kitchen.
"Here you are, this should put some meat on your bones. It just came out of the oven, and I've added some elven spices to it, so you'll feel at home."
He sets down the plate, then brings over his own and sits with the elf as she eats.
"So, what brings you to the city?"
Thank you, kind sir! My name is Angeliqué Noel, of the Ranielina.
*she sits as indicated, a little concious of the way she looks, and looks eagerly at the plate of food
Thank you again, I've not had a hot meal in some days. I travelled with a caravan of elves to this city, I have come here to hopefully start a life as a performer.
*she inhales the aromas of the food heavily and begins to eat
.o0(I've never seen an elf quite as...un-elfish...as her.)
"A performer, you say? How exciting that must be! As for the food, I'm happy to offer a portion of my cooking in exchange for any recipies you might have collected in your travels. But if you need somewhere to live, you'll want to talk to Marroc when he's around. He gave me a room of my own, but that's only because I work here. You would probably want to rent a mattress in the common area."
"Are you a fighter too, like many of your elven kin?"
Tagg sees the inn and as he nears it can almost swear he smells the aroma of food brewing from inside. . . if the wind were not interfering with his sense perhaps he could be more sure. He shrugs and enters the inn, catching Maelut behind the counter.
"Ah, hello! See you've made it back alright."
The smell of the food reassures itself as Tagg is now confident food has been cooking recently.
"Whatever's cooking smells good there, Maelut. Chance I could get a plate of it? I haven't eaten all day and I have some silver waiting to be spent here."
He gives off a small smile at the cook as he walks forward. Not until he is further in does he notice another elf sitting at a table in the corner of the inn eating one of Maelut's meals.
.oO ( Ah so that's what I must've smelled cooking...)
Tagg walks up to newcomer and slips into his native tongue.
(elven)"Hello there. I haven't seen you around here before. Well I don't see many people around here for that matter... Nothing wrong with the food or area or anything, just as you might of seen, well.. not the most attractive of places..."
Tagg catches himself before he rants on much longer.
(elven"Anyways... what might your name be?"
"Tagg, you look well. Of course, you're welcome to some food, and the silver is equally welcome."
He takes the silver at gets another plate of food for the ranger, and then sets it at the table with himself and Angelique. He pulls up a third chair, and then sits back down to listen to the female elf.
Fighter?! No! Never! Fighting is such a de-meaning manner in which to conduct interpersonal relations. I do not believe in fighting.
*she says this with an air of absolute certainty
I dance, I sing and I can do cute little puppet shows, all in the name of furthering peace. I believe that even the oldest and worst tempered mage will sit quietly with his enemies if they were to watch a comedic puppet routine. Or a few dances that appeal to our kind side, perhaps a tale of love and joy!
*sits down demurely after that outburst and eats daintily, having satiated the first pangs of hunger
As Maelut unlocks his door, he sneaks a glance at the sleeping elf. Amused at the sight of such a strange person asleep on the floor, he heads off to bed.
Who speaks my tongue?
*she turns and looks relieved when she sees another elf standing there
And just when I was starting to think I was in trouble with no other elves around. I am Angeliqué Noel of the Ranielina. And you are?
*stands and bows to Tagg, smiling amusedly at his assesment of the Inn
I hope the owner does not speak our tongue, unless you are a good friend of his.
(elven)"Nah the owner is a halfling."
"My name is Tagg. I dropped my last name long ago, nothing against my family but I find it more meaningful to keep it in a single word."
"Although a name like that can certainly make one doubt such a choice."
Tagg takes a seat and begins to eat the dish Maelut presented him.
(elven)Ranielina... intriguing. What made you come to the city?"
I am here to convince people that perhaps fighting is not the best way to do things. I also wish to perform, in dance and song, to promote my message of peace.
*smiles to herself
I think a City like this is a good place to start, as the cultural diversity existant here is an excellent field for the seeds of peace. To have elf and human, orc and halfing living in harmony, because they appreciate the finer points in life.
*she falls silent and eats the remainder of her meal, engaging Tagg in conversation to learn of the City and of himself
*she then pays for her meal and board, and goes to sleep, vowing to explore the city some the following day
to Elsewhere
.o0(The elf-woman said she was an entertainer. Perhaps she could help me sew up these clothes.)
He heads downstairs and begins preparing breakfast for the Inn. Once done, he sits down with his recipie book, and one he borrowed from his friend in the market square, and starts converting the recipies into his own notation. As he goes, he makes special note of the local herbs, and their equivalents in his home village.
*remains in the common room, seeing it empty, and begins to do some streches, and warm-up exercises.
*once she is done she walks down to the main room and sees Maleut, but more importantly smells breakfast
*with a curtsey
Good morning, sir. I hope you had a good nights rest?
*waiting for a response she continues
I wonder if I might procure some breakfast?
[Elven]
"No need for the curtsey, this isn't a castle. Well, not a reputable one anyway. Most of the breakfast is gone, eaten up by those that wake at a decent hour."
He sets down his recipie book, marking the page in his friend's book as well as his own.
[Common]
"But, I'm certain that I can find something for you...maybe some stale bread? Or perhaps a few peelings from an apple."
As Maelut says this, he prepares a plate of fresh fruit and some toast and marmalade.
"That should keep you from keeling over with hunger."
While she eats, Maelut cleans up in the kitchen, and then goes out to sit with her.
"You said that you were a performer, which I suppose means that you know your way around a needle. A thoughtless goblin ripped my clothes when he stuck a sword into my gut. I've healed, but my clothes havent. Do you think that you could help me repair the damage?"
It matters not where I am, I believe in being polite to all people.
*she laughs when he mentions the late hour in which she awakes
I had not had a night of un-interrupted sleep for a while now, and that felt like heaven upstairs.
*she smiles ruefully
I guess I had better get used to sleeping out of a bed now I have struck out on my own.
*her eyes widen at the mention of apple peelings and stale bread, then close in relief when she sees the fresh fruit, toast and marmalade
*remembering to speak in common this time
Thank you again!
*she eats carefully, not being quite famished and smiles at Maelut when he joins her at the table
I would be happy to help with that, just bring me the clothes, I have thread and a needle. Is there any particular reason the goblin was trying to poke a hole in you? I don't think he meant it for aesthetic purposes.
Boirin walks in just in time to here the tail end of Maelut and Angeliqué's conersation
"A beleive Maelut acquired that particular scratch because he was trying to cut the gobs head off."
Boirin steps behind the bar and pours himself a beer, puts a coin in the register, takes a long drag and speaks to the bard
"Pleased to meet you, my names Boirin."
"Well, yes. But they were planning on eating our friends. I think it was justified."
Maelut takes off the vest and hands it to the elf.
"My thanks. I can never handle a needle very well. And I appreciate the courtesy, it never hurts."
I am Angeliqué Noel, of the Ranielina. It is a pleasure to meet you.
*she tilts her head to one side as she looks at Boirin
Cut it's head off? Why?
*she seems confused as to who was the agressor, but seems to see Maelut's side after his explanation
You could have just hunted food together and then no one would have been hurt! Rather than attacking each other needlessly!
*she extracts a needle and thread and begins to mend Maelut's clothes
Maelut pauses and leans back. He takes a deep breath, and continues on.
"But this is depressing talk, and your life is for happiness, not misery. Perhaps I could have the honor of showing you some of the city. I know little of it, but perhaps we could explore it together? I need to take this recipie book back to my friend in the market, and I would very much like the company."
*she finishes mending his clothes and hands them back, carefully stowing away the needle and thread
There! Now don't get any more holes poked in them, unless you learn to sew!
*she considers his offer
Very well, I would be happy to accompany you, it would certainly be easier than exploring on my own, and two heads are always better than one!:D
*she gathers her backpack, and pays for breakfast, then waits for Maelut to get ready.
Maelut scribbles a few last-minute notes from the recipie book, and then dashes upstairs to fetch his backpack. He quickly straigtens out the kitchen, nods to Boirin and then heads out to the market with Angelique.
[to Market Square]
[to Market Square]
He mutters as if to himself
"Respect Goblins? Obviously shes never seen a goblin."
As he works, he sees Boirin sitting quietly on one of the bar stools. Maelut waves him over.
"That elf is a strange one, isn't she? She's opposed to all types of fighting, and she won't even carry a quaterstaff around to protect herself. She said she'd teach me magic for my cooking, so maybe you've got some good meals to look forward to."
"Good day sir I would ask you to leave now..."
The orc only laughed he approached Boirin's father he struck him again and again. Boirin's father never lifted a hand in his defense.
Boirin absorbed completely in his thoughts starts slightly as Maelut aproaches
"Yah, strange discribes those types pretty accurately. I bet she would advocate rehablitlating demons or talking nice to red dragons to make them feel better. I think my parents might have been like that."
"Would you like a beer?"
As he says this Boirin pours himself one and digs out another mug for Maelut
*leaves almost immediately to the common room to trance, and will then spend 8 hours (early in the morning to midday) working on crafting a puppet
*comes downstairs and gets lunch, paying for it and decides to do some exploring of her own, maybe to find the boarding house that Maelut mentioned
*leaves Maelut a note to the effect that she will help him with the magic and will be back later on in the day
[to Elsewhere]
He takes a drink of water instead, and relaxes into a stool.
"Things seem so quiet here, especially compared to the excitement of the adventure. Have you heard anything interesting lately?"
"Nothing to out of the ordinary, the most intresting thing I heard was that someone thought the baron was a demon, and that a talking cat wandered the streets. But guessing our clientell it would not suprise me if they just made that up."
[edit stupid low wisdom mistake, stupid newb mistake, GM's I need to talk to you about this]
Maelut sees a pan of chicken about to catch fire, and sprints over to rescue it. After setting things in order, he rejoins Boirin.
"Actually, I should probably stay here, I have to get the meal ready. Thanks for the offer, though."
*she then packs her backpack again, and going downstairs sets off to the market, giving Maelut a cheery wave along the way
[to Market Square]
*hurries back into the Inn and bids Maelut good morning, leaving a silver with him for the upcoming night
Sorry I don't have much time to talk right now, but I have to make a puppet, and I don't think i have too many days to finish it.
*smiles again and goes upstairs to the common room, and finding a good spot to sit, she gets out her tools and the materials needed for the puppet and commences construction
As he steps out the door he notices Angeliqué head into the common room and he sticks his head inside the door
She works steadily completely engulfed in her work, Boirin watches as she collects rags and sews some of them together
After awhile he yawns and heads down stairs
Once in the bar proper he nods to the bouncer and Maelut, and steps behind the bar pouring himself his customary morning drink and grabbing his breakfast
"Do you know what Angeliqué is doing? Is she making a dress?"
.o0(I wonder why she was so rushed...)
Maelut heads upstairs to ask the young elf. He sees her on the floor hard at work.
"So what's the huge rush? I thought you were supposed to be all about relaxation and tranquility."
Boirin finishes his breakfast and puts the plate in the dirty dish pile, he then goes around and gathers up the guests dirty dishes
"Well I need to go out and get some new clothes so I'll be out at the market ok."
Boirin speaks to Maelut and then heads out the door
[To market square]
No, I'm not rushing, I just wanted to hurry back from the market. I have a puppet to make for that man who drew the sketch of me in the Market. And he is leaving town, so I don't have awfully long to complete it. I should be done by nightfall, so maybe we can talk then? Sorry...
*she then resumes assembling the puppet, humming to herself as she works on the detailed toy
"That man seems a little old to be playing with puppets...but, to each his own."
He then finds Maelut in the common room and sticks his head in
"Hay Maelut do have a sheat of parchment and a quill I could borrow?"
*Hermy and Minto enter the room, soon after Marroc comes out of his office to meet them.*
"'Ermy me boyo. Oi 'eard about yer woife. Moi condolences."
"Thanks. I needs a favor frum you Mister Brimblebird. If ya cian."
"Oi'll see wot Oi cin do. Wot do ya need?"
*Minto speaks up.*"Information."
*Marroc smiles.*"That Oi think Oi cin do. Wot da ya need ta know?"
"Has you heard anything about Area? She stormed off after Alissa didn't come back to life, an I needs to finds her so we cin have the funeral. I'd hate fer her ta miss it."
"As a matter o'fact, Oi 'ave 'eard a bit about 'er."
"You have? What?"
"She left town a few 'ours ago. 'eading towards 'er mothers Oi beleive. Oi 'eard she plans on staying there fer a bit. Until 'er mind clears up a bit frum wot Oi gather."
"Really? That'll make things a bit easier. I was planning on going there woth Alissa's ashes so her mom coulds come ta the funeral too."
"How'd you find all this out so quick?"
"Oi got a few sources. Oi 'eard she was planning on going ta the capital, Oim glads she changed 'er moind on that. It's a long way off."
"Is it? Ise never been there."
"Yeah 'ave. Ya just didna know it at the toime. Yer brother spent a lotta toime there. Oi imagine 'e musta 'ad you with 'im fer a lot of that."
"Oh? That was the capital? I guess I have been there."
"I likes this city a lot more."
"Even the rats are nicer here."
"You've done well fer yerself 'ere."
"I has. Except for all the people dieing and stuff likes that."
"Well, those are people you wouldna 'ave meet otherwise."
"Yeah. It's that balance thing of the Mothers again, aint it? She's a lot mores busy doing her god type things then you'd think aint she. I kinda used ta think all she did was lay around on a cloud eating pie."
"Thats what I woulda done ifen I was all powerful an stuff. But I guess it aint so easy."
"It never is."
"Nope... Thanks Mister Brimblebird. I guess I cin stop looking fer Area now. At least until I get to her moms house."
"Her mom will help her feel better. It's what moms are suppose to do."
"At least that's what I like to think."
"Oi like ta think that moiself."
"Yer moms dead too aint she like mine?"
"That she is moi boyo. But she 'ad a long full loife."
"And she might be having another one now."
*Marroc gives Hermy a strange look.*
"Oim not sure Oi understood that?"
"Alissa got reincarnated. Maybe yer mom did too."
"Ah! Well its a possability."
"Yup. iI don't think my mom did, but I'm guessing not everyone does."
"Well maybe se's enjoying the after life with yer father."
"I doubts it. My dad aint dead."
"Wot's that?"
"My dead mom tolds me that he aint dead."
"Yer dead mom told you... that sounds a bit familiar."
"No she's really dead. Not dead like Kirby was when he left the note saying he was dead. Dead likes Kirby was after Cog cut his head off. Except she's not coming back so that I have to kill her. Kirby already did. And no mother should be killded by both of her sons. It aint right."
"Minto? Are you followin any o'that?"
"Some of it. He spoke with what he thinks was his mothers spirit while in the Labinryth at the Temple. And evidently she told him his father is still alive."
"Yeah. I just thought he was dead cause he got sent ta the mines when I was very small."
"Sent to the mines, eh? Wot fer?"
"Fer something Kirby did of course."
"Well that woulda been a long toime ago. 'e can't still be in the moines. Not if 'e's still alive. Ya can't survive fer twenty years or so in them koind o'conditions."
"Ya can't? I always thought when ya got sent ta the mines it was for the rest of yer life."
"I think thats what Marroc was implying."
"Oi was imploying that 'es probably not there."
"Then why hasn't he come ta find me? I would go find my son ifen I was sent to the mines for a crime I didn't commit, an then I was freed."
"At least I would ifen my wife hadn't died before I could have a son."
"What about Baby Kirby?"
"Well yeah, I'd go find him ifen I was freed from the mines."
"Maybe yer dad doesn't know where ya are?"
"Only if he's deaf or somewhere really far away. My songs about Hermy are incredibably popular."
"Yeah. I'm famous."
"That ya are me boyo. But not that famous. Not everywhere 'as 'eard of you yet."
"But ya'd think my dad woulda."
"Oim sure theres a good reason."
"I bet there is too. And I'm gunna find out what it is as soon as I get done saying goodbyes ta my wife."
"Da ya trhinks you coulds help me out there too Mister Brimblebird?"
"You seem to be ables to finds things out a lot easier then I cin."
*Marroc laughs.*"That's because thats wot Oi do. Yer a lot better at 'eroing cause thats wot you do."
"We've all goit our specialties."
"Mines singing."
"And Alissa's was being pretty."
*Marroc and Minto both nod.*
"Da ya think ya cin find out about my dad for me Mister Brimblebird?"
"Oim not sure wot Oi cin foind. Ya didna give me much ta work on, an it's a very old bit ofd information yer a seaking."
"But you cin do it, right?"
"I cin give it a troi, no guarantees though."
"Well yer troing is better then someone elses not trying."
*Marroc smiles.*
"Oi'll take that as a compliment. Oim gunna need a bit of information from ya. Ya wouldna 'appen ta know yer dads name would ya?"
"Sure I do, it's the same as mine."
"So yer dads a 'Ermy Wood'ome too? Oim surprised the Mother would allow something loike two a ya runnin around."
"Well, he's a lot older. He probably can't run near as fast."
"Oh, an he probably don't got magic boots neither."
*Marroc laughs again.*"I think yer probabvly roight about that."
"Yup. Thankls Mister Brimblebird. Thanks fer the information an stuff. I'll bese backs in a few days."
"Oi'll troi ta 'ave soimethin fer ya boi then."
*Minto and Hermy exit the inn, and Marroc enters his office, locking the door behind him.*
Maelut fishes some paper and a pen out from behind the counter of the bar. He hands it to Boirin.
"What do you need that for?"
"Thanks."
"Its about time I write a letter home, my foster-father is probably worried."
Maelut pauses as he chews on a piece of cheese. He takes out his recipie book and looks through it.
"But it's nice to look through this book, and know that most of what I can do is because of what my dad taught me. The connection is very comforting."
"I understand the feeling, this was a gift from my foster father."
Boirin pats his shortsword familiarly
"However he asked me to write once I got settled. Thank you."
Boirin bows his way out and heads to his room to write his letter. In it he includes everything he has done so far in the city.
[To Elsewhere]
Boirin nods to Maelut on his way out
"I'll be out for a bit ok Maelut."
[To Elsewhere]
Joseph sleeps with his hand concealed under his cloak, leaving what it clasps to an onlooker's imagination.
"How much do I owe you?" Joseph askes.
"One silver for the corner, and another for not asking permission."
Knowing better than to anger the proprietor of an establishment any more, Joseph fishes three silver pieces out of his purse and hands it over. "I hope the extra two silver can more than make up for my rudeness, I was performing all night and I was very tired," Joseph apologizes.
"While I have your attention, do you have any private rooms?" the embarrassed bard askes.
Joseph locked the door, put his backpack down on a stool, his mandolin on table, and his sword belt under the bed.
Ahh... a bed... Joseph thinks as he falls a sleep, draped over the bed like a bear skin rug.
While Joseph slept, he dreamed of how he ended up at Garic's city.
Joseph rode into Sarien Point on Dante, his late father's draft horse. Dante neighs. "Calm Dante, we are going to start over here," Joseph said as he patted Dante's right shoulder. The young man prods the horse onwards to the town.
Joseph dismounts as they reached the town and led Dante in by his bit and bridle. Joseph and Dante passed the town guard house and into Sarien's Point.
The pair continued to move through town until Joseph spotted an inn, Sarien's Pint. Joseph chuckled and headed around back to the stable.
"How much for a night's stabling?" Joseph asked the boy on duty.
"Five silver a night sir," the stable boy said.
"Okay." Joseph dug into his pouch and pulled out five silver, and his purse is lighter for it.
Joseph walked into the inn from the back. He noticed the Pint is quiet. The bard sought out the proprietor.
"I'm sorry young man, but while I don't have as much business as I would like, I am busy with what I got," the owner said.
"I understand, but I think I can improve your business. My name is Joseph and I am a performer. I would like to offer my services to your establishment," Joseph said while he pulled his mandolin around to the front.
"And how much are your services going to cost me?" the skeptical owner replied.
"Well, I would offer them in exchange for stabling for my horse, Dante, two meals a day, and a corner in your common room. If you decide my performances are bringing in sufficient business, perhaps we can renegotiate it to a private room?" Joseph asked cautiously.
"Well, if you play well tonight, you can have a place in the common room and dinner, but during the day you have to go around town advertising for yourself and the Pint. Do we have a deal?" the owner offered.
"You bet," Joseph said with more confidence.
"My name's Darell Byhin, I'm sure you'll meet everyone else eventually," Darell said.
"Thank you for this opportunity Master Byhin."
"Don't thank me yet, if you are terrible you will be sent out in the cold."
* * *
And so the days went, Joseph playing in the evening for tips, room, and board, and wandering the Point during the day to fill up the common in the evening. Joseph's most notable performance was when a young man hired him to serenade his fiancee while the young man proposed.
* * *
One night while Joseph he noticed a young woman watching him play. She wore her hair long, brushed over her right shoulder, draping over a long sleeve white blouse and a long lavender dress. She had a thin weave red shawl wrapped around her shoulders. Joseph smiled and lowered his head, closed his eyes and continued to play. Every now and then, Joseph looked up and saw the same woman looking at him.
During his break, the young woman came over and sat at the table next to him.
"You must've travelled all over to learn those songs," the mysterious girl said.
"I've been to a few places. I learned elven from a Sylvan Minstrel, and dwarven from a Skald. My name is Joseph, and you are?"
"Jasmine. You'll be performing tomorrow night, right?" Jasmine asked
"Yes, I am."
"I'll see you tomorrow night then." Jasmine stood up and walked out of Sarien's Pint.
* * *
The next night, Joseph was playing his mandolin again when Jasime walked in. She sat closer to the stage. As Joseph played, everything fell away in his perception except for Jasmine and the music.
Eventually a hand shook Joseph from his musical trance. It was Darell.
"Joseph, you feeling alright?"
"Uh, yeah. I'm just..." Joseph said as he came out of his daze. He looked back to where Jasmine was sitting, but she was gone. "...fine. What time is it?"
"It is three in the morning. Brian was worrying you were under a spell the way you were playing without blinking. We were able to call for an apothocary!"
"Sorry for worrying you."
* * *
The next day, Joseph was playing his mandolin around Sarien's Point to attract attention to Darell's inn. Joseph had mixxed feelings about the night, Jasmine might or might not be there, and he didn't really want to find out.
* * *
Sure enough, Jasmine showed up. And during Joseph's break she again came over. "When do you finish tonight?" she asked.
"Eleven. Why?"
"I want to go over to your place," Jasmine replied.
"Well... I sleep here, in the common room," Joseph said somewhat embarrassed.
"Then I'll just have to bring you to my place," she said patting Joseph's hands.
* * *
"You live here?" Joseph asked in partial shock. They stood outside a large house near the edge of town.
"Well, sort of. My family works for the owners of the house. Come on, I have my own small room in the attic." Jasmine half dragged Joseph to a back servant's door.
She led him up a winding stair case to a room with a pile of hay in a corner with a blanket over it. Jasmine pulls Joseph over to the hay bed.
"So, how long are you going to be in Sarien's Point?"
"Well, everything seems to be going so well. Why would I want to leave?" Joseph asked with a smile.
"You never think of running away to parts unknown?"
The door bursts open.
"What do you think you are doing?!" a man in half-plate demanded of Joseph. Joseph looked closer and finally noticed the symbol on the warrior's tabard. "What are you doing with the lord's daughter?!"
"Daughter?"
"You're under arrest!" the man declared.
Joseph popped up from the sofa and arrogantly said, "And who and what.. army.." Joseph swallowed hard as four more men wearing armor and carrying swords entered. He looked around like a trapped fox. The bard looked at his would-be captors again. He spun, flaring his cape, and dived head first out the window. "THIS WAS A BAD IDEA!" Joseph shouted at the air as he sailed down into a pile of hay. He crawled out of the hay and looked up at the window for a moment before taking off for the Pint.
* * *
Joseph thought as he ran.
* * *
Joseph had grabbed his backpack and was heading to the stables to get Dante when it hit him. A steel gauntlet to his face. Joseph cursed loudly as he fell away from his assailant.
Joseph's vision started to clear and he saw an unattended serving tray. He snatched it up and fended off another punch. The bard bludgeoned the guard with the wooden tray before discarding it. Joseph was about to continue on to the stables when, "I think I heard something come from inside," a voice called from the stables.The bard took off out the front door and didn't look back until he was a quarter mile from the Point.
*once she is done she gathers all her stuff and getting directions from Wealdy to the public bathhouse, she sets off towards that area
[to Elsewhere]
Maelut looks in his spice pouch and realizes that he's running low on Calorphinius seeds, the main flavor in several of his favorite dishes.
"Hmm...I wonder if Dorian would have some today"
He leaves some food for the Inn, and then grabs his backpack from upstairs, in case he sees some extra goodies to cook with.
"Well, I better get going."
Leaving a note behind the bar, Maelut heads out the door.
[To Elsewhere]
.oO(I wonder if Gamis is home yet, no I doubt it maybe later...)
.oO(I wonder where everyone is, bet their off having a party without me)
[to elsewhere]
Joseph comes striding down the stairs and stretches again. He moves over to the counter and says with a grin, "So, what's for breakfast?" Joseph suddenly has to scratch behind his ear. Oh my... It's been three days since my last bath... that is like a... oh that was a good bath... that is a record for me... "I don't suppose there is a sponge and wash pan I can rent? And maybe a few towels?"
"No sponge, no wash pan, and no towels."
What kind of establishment is this? Joseph thinks, Why, I've been in hovels that had more luxeries.
"So, do you know where I can get cleaned up, or at least get those items I mentioned to get cleaned up? I'm new in town."
"Well, there is the public wash house, or the market. But that is about it."
Public wash house? Why did it have to be public? Joseph thought. I guess I lost my right to expensive luxeries when they took my horse... and all the gold I had... that is why Dante was so slow... all that gold!
"So which way to the public wash house?"
...
Joseph heads back upstairs and removes his sword belt and instrument, but he keeps his dagger.
[To Off camera Bath House...]
Joseph passes a gold piece to the person on duty. "I'll be keeping this room for two more nights. That should cover it."
"See ya later."
[To Elsewhere]
Joseph comes in whistling. And walks to the bar and pulls out the five new silver pieces. "A bottle of wine please? And a couple of glasses," says Joseph.
"'ow many glasses do ya need? Oi aint one ta tell a man 'is buisness but ya only got two 'ands, so Pi wouldn't recomend more 'en that."
Marroc produces a pair of mostly clean goblets.
"But its yer coin."
Joseph accepts the wine and two goblets and walks to a table. The bard takes a seat and plays his Mandolin while waiting for the Elven dancer to appear.
"Oi noticed ya got yerself a twelve stringed twanger there. Ya wouldn't 'appen ta be a bard would ya?"
.o0(Why do Oi get so many bards in 'ere. Oi don't even 'ave a stage.)
"Are ya in town fer the festival, or are ya thinkin a stayin awhoile?"
Marroc blows out a smoke ring.
"Oi hope ya aint the spell flingin koind. Oi don't allow spell flingin' in moi inn."
"Except fer Maelut. A good meal cin make up fer an short coming of personality."
Marroc blows another ring and retyrns behind the bar.
Originally posted by Marroc
"Oi hope ya aint the spell flingin koind. Oi don't allow spell flingin' in moi inn."
Joseph cocked an eye brow at this. "You are a funny person Mr. Brambleburr. I wish I could fling spells... no... I can conjure a musical instrument, move small things, and I see things. No flashy spells or show stoppers... Speaking of show stoppers, do you know of any of those.. firework makers? Them alchemists? Not that it really matters since I lost my gold! Ugh!" Joseph reminded himself of the theft on him and his face takes on an angry frown.
"The only thing in 'ere thats allowed ta burn the place down is moi pipe."
Marroc takes a deep puff.
"But if yer plannin on usin them in a show ar some other inn, well Oi 'ear ole' Natala's Mystic Storew as themselves one of those alchemists."
"Ya could troi there."
Marroc looks at Grack."Keep an eye on 'im Grack me boyo. If 'e looks at anything flamable toss im out."
Marroc dissapears into his office. Gracks expression does not change.
"No reason to just wait..." the bard says as he takes a sip. Not the worst wine I've had. Not the best either.
Marroc is out of his office before Wealdy can reach the cook.
"Wot's goin on 'ere? Quick! Put the lass down on that table!"
"Just drop the 'alftuck there on the floor, 'e won't be going anywhere Oi'll wager."
"Aint this the waitress fron ole' Cogs place? Wot is she doin way out 'ere? Oi know 'er father don't loike 'er ta be in this part o'town."
Marroc puts pressure on the girls bleeding leg, until Billa arrives with a stack of clean towels.
"Oi cin get 'er stabilized enough ta move. An then yer gunna wanna take 'er ta Natala's Mystic Store. She'll be able ta 'eal 'er up good as new."
"Ya shoulda gone there in the first place. Oim an innkeeper, not a 'ealer. Ya wouldna go ta a 'ealer fer a glass o'beer would ya?"
Marroc wraps one towel around Elsies wound and uses another to wipe the blood off her. He throws anothewr towel to Maelut and one to Joseph.
"Ya did the roight thing gettin 'er soimewhere safe first. This aint that bad a wound, but if ya woulda let it be, there'd be an opening at the Last Lich Inn."
""Clean yer self up a liitle. If she wakes up an sees ya lookin' loike that she's likely ta faint."
Marroc wipes his hands on the last towel and moves towards the bloody halfling.
"Oi hope ya didna get the other two as messy when ya killed them. Oi dunna think we've got enough towels fer Grack when 'e brings back there bodies."
Marroc shrugs and motions to Wealdy.
"Take 'im out back. Grack'll take care of the rest when 'e gets back."
Wealdy starts to drag the body towards the kitchen, Marroc stops and takes a fancy money purse of the body and then nods for Wealdy to keep going.
He tosses the bag on the table next to Maelut.
"Split it up any way ya sees fit."
The purse contains 7 gold, 14 silver and 8 copper coins.
"Why were they attacking us inside the walls of the city? Isn't there supposed to be a guard to prevent this? And why would they attack two innocent people for no reason? Joseph, did you recognize either of them?"
He leans back and shakes his head. Then he turns to the money purse, and takes out four gold pieces before tossing it to Joseph.
"Hopefully Natala will heal her as a favor. There's not enough in here to pay for the spell."
After resting for another minute, Maelut gets up and walks into the kitchen. He cleans off his wounds and carefull washes and resharpens his knives and their sheaths. Once done, he makes two cups of very strong tea and brings them out for himself and Joseph.
"Here, drink this. Once we've got our strength back, we can take her to Natala."
The bard accepts the tea. "Thanks."
Joseph pats his cuts with the towel. "I'll be right back."
----------
Joseph goes to his room and collects his sword belt and attaches it around his waist. "That's better, I bet the other two [belts] were getting lonely without you," Joseph sighs.
----------
Joseph comes down the stairs after a few minutes.
"I seem to recall that it costs around 10 gold pieces for casting spells of this power. I had hoped that she would be willing to cast it for free, since it is such a low powered spell. I'm sure that she would want to help an innocent victim."
He thinks for a moment, and then continues.
"But since she might prefer some payment, I'll drop my gold back into the pouch. You and I can split it later if she doesn't want it."
Maelut draws his knives again and checks the area outside the door.
OoC: If it looks clear, then I lead the way towards Natala's Shop. Once we're going, I will protect the others as my first priority. I won't pursue any enemies that run away after they attack.
"An ya don't need ta worry about them 'alftucks comin' after ya again taday."
"If they're still anywhere around 'ere, Grack'll 'ave found 'em. An that'll be that."
"What ya do need ta worry aboot is not reopenin the lasses wounds while ya carry 'er there."
"Maelut. Go get a blanket froim yer room."
"Wealdy, go ut ta the stables an get a pair o'shovels."
"An then use them ta make a stretcher."
Marroc lights up his pipe and takes a seat next to Elise, and puffs away on his pipe while waiting for Wealdy to fetch the shovels.
"Well, shall we go?"
Joseph maintains listens for any warning of approach.
[Exit to Natala's]
Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.
The next morning, he awakes feeling a little refreshed but still bothered by the wound he sustained from the boar. He dresses it, and then heads downstairs to begin his day's work. As he cooks, he hums a tune he learned from his father when he was working in their tavern.
Tagg finds the inn and approaches it. He steps through the door and finds himself in the entrance hall. He looks around as a quiet tune reaches his ears. He follows where he thinks the sound is coming from with his eyes and spots Maelut cooking some breakfast.
"Hello there. I'm surprised you can even think about food after last night."
"But no big deal I guess, I ate an egg or two at Weatherby's myself."
Tagg speaks in a slightly quieter voice than normal, not wishing to awake anyone still sleeping at the inn.
"Tagg, how are you feeling? Still tired, I'd imagine. I hope you left some room for some fresh bacon."
On the last word, Maelut flips a piece of freshly cooked bacon into Tagg's hands without waiting for a response. He grins, and pours the guest a glass of juice and slides it across the cooking counter to him.
"I had a bit of an adventure last night, on the way home from the feast."
He proceeds to tell Tagg all about the mugger and Elise's misfortune.
"I'm just glad that everything turned out alright. Anyway, what are you up to? You're not usually out and about this early."
Tagg looks dumbfoundedly as the food is slid to him. He shrugs and starts to eat the bacon as Maelut tells his tale.
"Wow. Well I guess the good out of that is you were able to get all patched up."
He takes a sip of the juice.
"Well, at the feast I was talking to Minto (he's the fellow that recited those long tales about Hermy's heroics) and he asked me what I've been doing as an occupation. As you may or may not know, I don;t really have a job. And then we came upon the topic of the Silver Sword Adventuring Guild. I had stopped by there a few times before I had met you, and one of the requirements of membership was having done a deed for the city. Minto said that perhaps rescuing the halflings would be considered a deed, and at the least build some credibility over there."
"So, I'm over here looking for those that were along on that venture to see if you'd like to come along with me to the Guild and bear witness, as well perhaps, if you'd like, start the first step of joining yourself."
Tagg takes another drink of the juice to wet his mouth after the long speech.
As he waits for the answer, Maelut cleans up the kitchen, leaving some food for the rest of the Inn.
"Ok, you can tell me all about it on our way."
[Exit, stage left, to SSAG]
*Angeliqué enters the inn after Maelut and Joseph had left for Natala's and hears the story from Marroc. After exchanging pleasantries for a few minutes, she hands over the correct coinage for a wekk in the common room and sets off upstairs to trance for the night. The next two days she spends performing in the marketplace for coin
[ooc: 7sp spent for one week in the common room, and then two days in the marketplace to get me back up to speed with Garic's]
Joseph enters and looks around. "Where is he?"
Joseph goes over to the bar. "Have you seen Maelut? He forgot to take something."
"Maelut? Yer 'ust mess'd 'im."
Joseph groans. "Thanks anyway."
Joseph heads to his room.
----------------
"First you don't get the girl. Then you are playing errand boy for some mysterious dagger man... it would serve him right if I kept the money," Joseph says to himself while lying on his bed. His cloak, sword belt, and dagger belt have been unceremoniously dumped on the floor in a line from the door to the bed. His left book is on its side by the foot of the bed and the right is upside down in a corner.
"That is it, you are swearing off women..."
As an after thought: "...for tonight."
Originally posted by Maelut
"Hmm, that sounds like something to do. Let me just finish up with my cooking, and I'll come along with you. If I wanted to join, would I have to pay?"
As he waits for the answer, Maelut cleans up the kitchen, leaving some food for the rest of the Inn.
"Ok, you can tell me all about it on our way."
[Exit, stage left, to SSAG]
Tagg starts to open his mouth but Maelut's second wave of words meet him and he nods and follows him out the door. When they are on the streets on their way to the Guild he explains.
"You pay 25 gold each season in exchange for simple meals for free, five silver if you want to spend the night. But I don't think they like it very much if you spend all your time using such resources. You also get a slight discount on armory purchases, and you can use their training facilities. That's what I remember, there's probably more though."
The two continue walking until they reach their destination.
to SSAG
Brodda enters the bar, but not with her customary smile and good cheer. Frowning, she heads straight for a table in the corner. Billa approaches and sees the look that Brodda gives her. The gnome refrains from her usual sarcastic comments, but her expression doesn't change.
"Ale, Billa, and keep it coomin'."
She digs a handful of coins out of her purse and sets them out on the table, choosing a few and pushing them towards Billa. She also pulls out the gem, given to her by Tensek, a parting gift from Burleg. Completely putting Billa out of her mind, she rolls the gem in her fingers and studies it.
Billa, realizing she has essentially been dismissed, grumbles sarcasm to the bar and back, bringing a pitcher of ale and a tankard, setting them both on the table in front of the dwarfess, noisily. Brodda barely registers the gnome's presence, but drains her first tankard and refills it from the pitcher, taking more time with the second.
Brodda spends the better part of the night and the next day in this manner.
Pulling off his winter cap to reveal thinning brown hair, the man peers from one end of the room to the other, straining his eyes in the dim light. He tentatively advances on the main counter.
"Greetings," he voices in a friendly manner, "I'm wonderin' if by chance a Master Spiceslinger resides 'ere, init? I've tried a few uvver places wivout luck."
The look he receives from the gnome barmaid gives him pause, and he lingers in a sort of spontaneous staring contest.
"Er, how about an ale, right, ffen?"
.o0(It seems very nice, but 25 gold a season....? I don't think I'm interested.)
Once back, he walks over to the fireplace to warm his hands. He stands there, thinking about all the strange groups and people in Garic's City. Lost in thought for several minutes, he becomes almost toally unaware of anyone or anything else.
Morning Maelut, how are you? Is your leg a bit better today?
While indulging in his drink, the man at the counter fails to notice the object of his search enter. When he reaches into his pouch for the money to pay his server, he asks one more time if she has seen the man he's looking for. After placing an extra coin on the table for the tip, he is directed toward the fire with a tilt of the gnome's head.
A faint red coloring his cheeks from his ale, the man approaches Maelut from the right side. He squints, making sure this is who he wants.
"Howdy, yo'ng master Spiceslinger?" he pauses to allow time for correction.
"Happy Midwinter ter yer, sir. I came ter Garic's ter cull the herd and all, and yo' parents axed me look in on yo'. I've a farm in So'at-Arlon thet has dealin' wif their inn, as enny fool kin plainly see. They sometimes wo'ry about yo' bein' away an' all, ah reckon."
Noticing Angeligué, he hasitly bows, "Excuse me, miss. Didn't see yer tiny se'f thar."
He points to the seat next to Maelut to see if he may join the cook.
"Yer probably don't recognize me wiv all the bloomin' comings and gahns, but I've seen yer a time or two in the past. The bloody names is Edmund."
Edmund extends a hand.
Now
Boirin comes down from his room and gets his breakfast and sits behind the bar eating and serving patrons.
"Morning everybody." Joseph yawns. "Why does sleeping too much seem make to you more tired?" He stratches his bed heady hair.
. o 0 (He'll be around later, and maybe he'll introduce me to that man.)
Not at all sir, I'll wait until your business is done with Maelut, after all, you are here temporarily.
*seeing Joseph come downstairs, she stifles a giggle at his unkempt look then waves him over
How are you this morning? Were you at the midwinter festival? I didn't see too many people so I am not sure. I was a little preoccupied. Please sit, and have some breakfast with me.
"Yeah, I was at the festival. But I don't want to talk about it... terrible night," he says as he strokes a cut in the upper arm of his sleeve.
*as he sits, she appraises the leather clad man in front of her and smiles to herself. When he gets up for some breakfast she looks curious and calls out to him
Excuse me, but I am unfamiliar with the day to day habits of men, so I must ask; do you always wear leather sleeping clothes? Is it not too hot in the summer for that?
"It's wonderful to see you, please sit down. And don't worry about Angelique, it's doubtful she'll take offense. She takes offense at very little, in fact."
"Anyway, what news do you have of home? Is my father still burning the carrot soup? How fares the village?"
"A pair of halflings tried to mug me and... a bar maid, Maelut came to our aid," Joseph grudgling admits.
It is truly terrible that these halflings would attack a gentleman escorting a young girl home in the early morning! Just they wait till I educate them on peaceful actions, it's an outrage that they are so badly treated and must resort to mugging and stealing like that! I'm glad you are Ok, did the young girl get to her home safely?
*waiting for him to return to the table, she begins to eat her breakfast, while wondering about the conflict. She nods in agreement with Maelut's words to the stanger and laughs at his comments, if a little hollowly at that
"Oh Maelut, you forgot to take your share at Natalas, let me go get it," Joseph says as he stands up and heads back up the stairs.
Joseph comes back down after a few minutes wearing his fabric gauntlet, studded vest, and weapon belts. He places the purse with four gold, two silver, and four copper in front of Maelut before retaking his seat.
Originally posted by JosephKell
"I think one of them was killed, and the other either got away or was killed by Grack."
*she looks shocked, and a little peeved
Dead?! Why? You were obviously a superior force to them and with Maelut there you should have been more concerned with getting the girl home than killing a hafling. How outrageous that you would stoop to their level and kill them. How are we supposed to educate them with people like you murdering them left and right?
"I wanted to question the thief to break up their little crime ring, but sometimes you have to make sacrifices. My original plan was to just out run our pursuers, but Elise got scared and started cowering, so we lost time and our lead on them."
"We didn't make them attack us, they wanted our money, and since I am next to broke, I knew they would've tried to kill us... possibly even if I had the kind of money they were after. They dug their own graves, and now they will lie in them," he says grimly.
No, they did not dig their own graves. Everyone has the opportunity to change, even a poor halfling. Subdual damage can be better if you must fight, and it is not asking too much. I will speak to Maelut later, I thought I was making progress in getting him to agree with me about peaceful tactics.
*frowning, she looks a little sad also and returns to eating
"Come on, let's go somewhere, I think I know what will make you feel better," he says crypticly.
[to Elsewhere]
"Angeliqué, sometimes violence, and killing is a neccesity. You have to just deal with it. In some cases its your hide, or theirs, and if it was between me and some poor, stupid mugger guess who I'd pick. I mean I would expect the same from my enemy if there was really that desprite."
See you later Maelut. Bye Boirin! Have a nice day.
"Yer Spiceslingers, always finkin' of food first. Yor favver is doin' not so bad wiv 'is place, earnin' a good reputation. I tell yer, there nuffink more powerful than sharin' food wiv anuvver person. It's the spirit of 'ospitality,"
Edmund laughs a down to earth chuckle.
"Good ter see yor doin' not so bad. News of hammer and tack home, guv? Well, there's not too much change, yer know 'ow it is. There 'ave been some new shops openin', right, some Elven fare seems ter be the bloody new trend," Edmund finishes draining his cup and shakes his head good-heartedly.
"And before it got too cold, Alan, right, the son of ole Baldwin the engineer, not sure if yer've met 'im before, figured out 'ow ter build a new retainin' pond on the bloomin' east side ter store more water for waterin' the bloomin' livestock and in case of fire."
The man stretches out his arms and smiles at Maelut.
"Closer ter yor 'earff, yor yung sister is 'elpin' out at The bleedin' Traveler's Friend for yor folks. There seems ter be new breaff in the chuffin' lungs of blokes lately. Right excitin'."
"Then there's the, right, yer know, right, the beasts... the kobolds.." this last word is almost whispered as if not wishing to bring up the subject.
A twinkling knocks uninvited at the door of Maelut's thoughts, a shape of a face, reptilian and yet somehow dog-like in features, a shadowed grin etched into the muzzle by a disfiguring scar. The smell of blood. Then it is gone like a heavy breath vanishing in the winter air.
"Kobolds."
He growls the word, as though hoping his voice could destroy the wretched creatures in one fell swoop.
"The elves drove them away, and it seemed like they would leave us alone. I knew I shouldn't have left, not before we were sure they were gone for good. Is everyone all right? My family, the town? What have those gods-forsaken beasts been doing to my village?"
"Aye, right, creatures like that don't often find logic among their priorities. Just last week, right, an attack in the bloomin' outskirts in the west to raid a caravan leavin' tahn. Bloody mess that turned out ter be."
"They came less frequently for a wile, but they seem more focused wen we do spot ffem. Odd, that. The bloody times they don't come and we're expectin' them is worse, savvy? Like we don't know wot they're up to."
Edmund stares at Maelut, "No, no, yung master, it's good yer got away. It's just a wee tahn, right? Less and less blokes seem ter care about that ole way of life anymore 'round thes parts. Times are changin'. The wretches of the wild spot it as easier prey."
"I worry for me children, though. I 'ave two. One boy 'round the same age as yor sister, and the uvver girl is turnin' six this year.."
Edmund's eyes glaze over as his reflections drift toward home.
"They should be able ter play outside, in the chuffin' fields like I used to," he frowns.
"I'll be out for a bit Maelut. If you need me I might be a the SSAG."
[to Elsewhere]
[to elsewhere]
"Someone needs to stop those kobolds. I should be back there, helping. I have some friends here in the city that might be able to help, and maybe we could get rid of the kobolds for good. It sounds like they're more organized, so we'd need some experienced people to help us. I'm sure my friends would be willing to join me. And if not, then I'll just have to go by myself."
Maelut thinks back to the kobold attacks he witnessed, and remembers the total chaos. The implication of the farmer's comment begins to sink in.
"Organized? As I recall, those beasts were never very smart. This could be bad, and if they're organized then they might be planning a big attack. I need to get back there, I need to be there."
"Edmund, if you can wait for a couple days, I can try to find some people to come with me. Then we'll all go back there together, I wouldn't want anything happening to you, given how far you have to travel. Can you spare the time?"
"Thet soun's like a mighty fine thin' yo'd be tryin' t'do. Dangerous, but yer aware of thet."
"Ah acshully need t'git back t'th' town. Thar's always thin's thet need mendin' an' sech. An' brigan's o' no brigan's, th' farm still has t'be ready fo' th' next season. Thin's may change, but we still plough th' fields cycle af'er cycle," Edmunds seems to take some comfort in that statement.
"But yo' knows th' way home, doesn't yo', suh?"
He reaches out to shake Maelut's hand once more before snapping on his cap.
Maelut dashes into the back room and fills a small bag with some morsels for the road. He brings it back out, along with a skin of ale.
"That should see you back home. I'll speak to you when I arrive in a few days."
He firmly shakes Edmund's hand, and smiles at the thought of being home soon.
"Oh! Thank yer. Yer right are a kind soul."
The man places his hand on Maelut's shoulder warmly.
"Farewell."
He turns toward the door and is gone from the inn swiftly, leaving a draft of cold air as the door swings shut.
Suddenly her eyes pop open and she jumps up as quickly as she is able and locates the empty washbasin...
*************PASSING OF TIME***************
Some time later, after getting cleaned up, she slowly and painfully makes her way back to the common room of the inn. Looking for a quiet corner to settle herself, she finds not an available corner table, but a table along the wall. She eases herself into the chair, wincing whenever any noise in the inn gets loud.
.oO(Ah'm awfully glad the patrrons of this inn have a tendency teh keep quiet.)
Billa, looking very smug, approaches Brodda.
"Ale, dear?" she asks in what must be her most sarcastic tone.
Brodda glares at the little woman.
"Sooup. Brrroth if yeh have it."
The dwarfess pushes money for supper plus a large tip for the gnome's cooperation for quiet service. Billa takes it and disappears into the kitchen, soon bringing back a bowl of vegetable soup and bread. She then disappears off into the crowd.
Though her intent is to eat quietly and keep to herself, she can't help listening to the conversations around her for anything of interest.
"Hay Maelut who was that person you were talking to when I left anyway?"
.oO(Looks like Marrroc got himself soome extrra help.)
She watches the young man for a few moments, until something else diverts her attention away.
.oO(Thats strange seeing a dwarf woman for the first time in this city makes me realize how few of them there must be...)
Once the countertop is sufficiently, evenly, dirty, Boirin tucks his rag in the back of his belt and straightens out his tunic. And walks, around the bar this time, over to the Dwarf in the corner.
In Dwarven: "Is there anything I can get for you today?"
[Dwarven]"Well... thank yeh, not now, lad."
She indicates her soup.
"Ah've got all Ah need forr the moment."
She smiles, weakly, but with a friendly manner.
"How came yeh teh knoow meh language?"[/Dwarven]
Boirin's green eyes sparkle with the memory of home.
"Yeh'rre bearrd is a bit shorrt forr a dwarrf, but not bad forr a man."
She winks, and a sudden wave of nausea hits her. She closes her eyes and the feeling passes quickly. She looks back to the man with her friendly smile.
"Ah'm Brrodda, loveliest dwarrven barrd in these parrts. It's a pleasurre teh meet yeh, lad."
"Boirin, son of Naerin. The pleasure is mine lady Brodda. Ah well you know, the beard was always gettin' stuck in things when I had it grown out. Wait didn't you sing at the Midwinter festival?"
"Pleased teh make yeh'rre acquaintance, Boirin."
Brodda smiles, pleased to have been recognized.
"Aye, indeed Ah did, lad. Ah trrust yeh enjoyed it?"
"As am I. Of course I enjoyed it. Can't get any of the Bards who hang out here to sing any proper Dwarven music."
"Ah doon't always sing prroperr Dwarrven music eitherr -- though occasionally the mood does strrike meh."
She grins.
"Ah will have teh do soomethin' just forr yeh, though. But not herre."
She winks again.
"Marrroc isn't too keen on havin' singin' in his establishment."
Another unpleasant wave hits her, and the smile fades from her face. She pushes back her bowl of soup.
"Ah'm sorry, Boirrin, lad. Ah need teh rreturrn teh meh rrroom forr a bit. Ah had a bit too much parrrtyin' last night."
"Of course, if there is anything you need don't hesitate to call on me. I might not be in, in that case Maelut our cook will be more than happy to accomodate you."
"Thank yeh. Undoubtedleh we'll be seein' moorrre of each otherr."
She turns and makes her way back up the stairs to her room, this time she gets as far as undressed and under the covers.
Joseph walks over to the counter and slips a gold piece to Marroc. "That should cover the next two days."
He helps up to his room and locks the door behind him.
--------------------------
Joseph sits down on his bed and pulls off his right boot. And pours the parchment wrapped coin into his left hand. He sets the boot down.
What makes you so special? Joseph thinks as he unfolds the parchment.
Joseph pulls a lens out of his spell component pouch and holds it up to his right eye as he casts detect magic.
"Boirin, I just spoke with a farmer from my village. He told me that kobolds are attacking again. I'm going back there to do what I can, and to see if I can get rid of them for good. You were a strong fighter when we were fighting those goblins, and I would be honored if you'd join me again. I don't expect you to say yes, but it would be a favor that I wouldn't soon forget."
"Of course I'd help, I'm always up for a spot of adventure. So when do we leave? Who else is going?"
Once he's done speaking he takes a drag at the beer.
The tradesman must have known this coin was special.
"As for our departure, I will want to find some more people. As we learned on our last trip, a healer could prove invaluable. And a spellcaster too, my magic is for cooking not killing. I shall ask around, and look for some companions."
Boirin takes another sip of cheap beer.
"Well theres a new spell slinger in town, but I think he needs a little more experiance under his belt before hes ready to do some thing like this, but I'll ask around for a healer. Anyway I heard that some bards can heal. Maybe that JoesephKell figure would be a choice if we can't find a preist. Also some palidins have healing powers so maybe if we can find one... hmmm, I think I know the person to ask about that."
You can't risk getting help identifying this thing because you stole it... There is no telling who might know its origin... Besides, you can't afford to get it identified...
What has an enchantment aura... Only mind altering effects...
You've heard of luck stones... but lucky coins? No... that is too cliché.
Joseph places his thumb and index finger on the coin softly.
He winces his face as he pinches it.
He opens a squinted eye. No... I guess that wouldn't do it.
The bard raises the coin to eye level and lets go to see if it will float or do anything to keep from hitting the floor.
He picks the mystery magic item up again and orients it perpenticular to the floor and drops it again to see how it lands.
He flips it again.
Joseph hears a rattling noise from the alley.
"Well Maelut I'm getting tired. Goodnight."
Boirin walks up the stairs to his room, unlocks steps inside and locks it again. He then undresses and hops into bed falling asleep quickly.
.oO(I wonder what Maelut's town is like.)
--------------------
"Marroc, I think I saw someone stalking in the back alley from my window." Joseph is careful to not mention anything about the coin.
*she follows Joseph into the Inn, and sits down for a bit while he goes upstairs. While sitting at a table, she looks around at the Inns patrons and decides to sit a while and reflect on her knowledge of the town
She looks around to see who's on duty.
.oO(That man, Boirrin, he was interrestin'. Ah doon't see him, though. Ah shoould like teh speak with him moorre aboout his experriences.)
Spotting Grack at his usual post, she walks up to the half-orc.
"Hey therre, handsoome! How arre yeh t'day? Good! Ah'm dooin' much betterr than yesterrday, thank yeh forr askin'. Hey, if'n yeh see Marrroc, yeh'll be good enoough teh let 'im knoow Ah'm back in toown now, woon'tcha? That's a good fellow. Ah'll see yeh arroound. Take carre now!"
With a small chuckle to herself, she heads for the bar and climbs on a barstool, ordering a small breakfast. As she eats, her brain, recovered from the hangover, starts circling around certain thoughts.
.oO(Ah wonderr if Marrroc still needs that masked fella located. Ah feel terrible that Ah drropped the ball on that, but Herrmy's situation seemed moorre urrgent. Still, Ah shooulda come teh Marrroc and let him knoow Ah was steppin' ooutta toown forr a few days.)
She takes a bite of potatoes and continues thinking.
.oO(Ah wonderr how NaShae and Kywyn arre dooin' on theirr searrch forr theirr little one. Ah doon't carre much forr the elf-woman, but a child shoould not be caught up in such matterrs.)
The door to the inn opens as an unknown human male exits.
.oO(Herrmy seemed a bit betterr at the celebrrration. Ah shoould go visit and check up on him. Thoough Ah'm surre Minto is takin' good carre o'him.)
She turns back to her breakfast, and her mind reluctantly turns to unpleasant thoughts. She takes the gem out of her pouch and holds it in her fist.
.oO(Burrleg, what happened? We we'rre dooin' so well t'getherr. What made yeh leave withoout even sayin' goodbye?)
An image of Minto against the desert night sky flashes through her mind, but she pushes it away to concentrate on her thoughts of the dwarf.
.oO(Did the city just get too stinky forr yeh? Did one too many elves in toown push yeh too farr? But even so -- no perrsonal goodbye? No worrd on wherre yeh went so Ah coould look yeh up? Not even a note?)
She looks at the gem in her palm and sighs. She finishes her breakfast and leans against the wall, humming softly to herself, careful she is not disturbing any of the other patrons.
"Good morning, there. Fancy some breakfast and conversation?"
Without waiting for her reply, he sits down and begins talking. He tells her all about the kobolds and his village.
"So, I was wondering if you might like to join us. We need someone who could heal our wounds. I know you'll refuse to fight so I won't ask."
The bard stands up and heads out the front door.
[to Elsewhere]
Originally posted by Maelut
Maelut finishes cooking the breakfast, looking at the ex-drunk dwarf with unmasked amusement. He puts some pancakes on a plate and heads over to sit with Angelique.
Not pausing in her soft humming, Brodda notices the human's amusement, not quite understanding it. She raises an eyebrow at him as he sits with one of the patrons.
.oO(Odd. Ah wonderr what the sourrce of his amusement was. Ah'm surre Ah checked the mirrrrorr carrefully this morrnin'. Coould be he's just neverr seen a dwarrf woman beforre.)
She shrugs and drinks some ale.
You know I won't fight, and I am against fighting of any sort, yet you want me to come along to tend to your wounds received from fighting?
*she seems half amused and half angry at this proposition
This is your idea of a compromise? I don't have to fight, but I can help you to fight better? If I come, it will be to convince the kobolds there is a better way to live, not to patch you up on some silly quest for revenge. I can't understand your feelings against the kobolds, as I have never suffered at their hands as you did.
But, just as I can't expect you to put down your knives and never use them to kill anyone again, you can't resonably expect me to just happily go along on this jaunt, knowing full well that you intend to kill.
.o0(I knew that she'd never agree. It was worth a shot though. Hmm...one other idea.)
"If you truly believe that kobolds can change their ways, then come with us and try. You can try to talk to the kobolds, if you believe it'll make a difference. Just make sure that you're ready to duck."
"In any case, I'll leave you to your breakfast. Sorry to have disturbed you."
Maelut stands and heads back to the bar. As he passes the dwarf, he thinks:
.o0(The gods made so many races, yet we all get drunk the same. Odd.)
Duck? Duck?! You don't believe me do you? You think I'm crazy trying to make people see the world as a united place, where no one has to fear another intelligent being. You just believe in the power of your swords, not words. I'll show you, I'll teach those kobolds what I want to.
*she blinks the tears rising to her eyes away angrily, and stands up, exiting the inn in a huff
[to Elsewhere]
"She's probably twice my age, but with half the understanding of how things work. Well, at least she wants to come, even if it is to bash my head in."
"Good morning Maelut, so whats for breakfast today? Any word about a healer for your little goblin hunt?"
He claps Maelut friendily on the should, notices Brodda and nods in her direction
"I was thinking we'd leave as soon as I can get everything together. I'll try to find you later to give you the specifics."
OoC: Kobolds, not goblins.
"Okay Dokey, I'm probably going to be out and about for a bit. Hold your horses though I might get us an acuall healer, one who accually fights."
"Seeya!"
[to Elsewhere]
[OoC:
Oops, continuity error.]Maelut packs a snack for Angelique and uses some of his magic to make it extra-special. Once done, he heads out the door to find where she went.
[Exit stage right to Elsewhere]
.oO(Time teh see if'n Ah kin find that masked man forr Marrroc and see what he's up teh. Back teh the Fox...)
She picks up her things and heads out.
[to Elsewhere]
Not soon after Marroc comes out of his office sniffing the air. "Oi think Maeluts back Grack me boyo... Wot 'appened ta you? Yer blushing."
Grack does not respond. Marroc laughs and lights up his pipe. He pokes his head into the kitchen and gets chased out of it by the cook.
Marroc mumbles to himself as he heads towards the table Tagg is at. "Ya'd think 'es the one 'ooowns this place. Still Oi can't complain. Its 'ard ta argue with a good stew."
Once he reaches the table he turns his head and blows the smoke away from Angelique. "Tagg me boyo. Oi don't think that shirts gunna 'elp you blend in with the forest very well."
"Might not be to bad ta blend in with all the bards'oo aint left since the festival though."
Brodda marches into the inn, and none too quietly. With the look of anger on her face, not many attempt to hold her gaze for long as she passes through to the bar.
"An ale, then anotherr ale!" she barks.
The tone of her own voice makes her blink in surprise, and her expression softens as she blushes.
"Ah'm soorry, lad. Please, two ales."
She sets her bag down beside the barstool, digs some coins out of her purse and sets them on the counter, and sits with her forehead in her hands, pounding lightly.
Marroc heads to the bar and pushes Wealdy out of the way and pours a mug of Greycloak.
"If Oi didna know better, Oi'd think soimthin was upsettin ya Brodda me lass."
"Hi Marrroc. Aye, Ah'm upset. Thoough upset dooesn't rreally coverr it."
She sighs and pounds her forehead one more time. Except now she is more aware of the throbbing in her left hand. She turns it over and sees scrapes on the back and a bit of blood on the knuckles.
"Ah, rright, the box."
She picks up her mug and drinks long, leaving her mug half empty.
"Ah seem teh be rreally bad at spyin', Marrroc."
She frowns.
"How can Ah be an investigatorr if'n ah'm always caught spyin' on meh quarry?"
"Yer a charmin lass. Oim sure ya wouldna 'ave no problem charmin soimone inta doin yer spoin fer ya."
"The best way ta not be seen is ta not be there."
Marroc blows another smoke ring and winks. "Ya don't think Oi go out an foind moi own information do ya?"
Marroc pours himself an ale.
"Ya see moi friend Tagg over there. 'E's not bad at 'iding. Fer a non 'alfling that is."
"An 'es twice the outdoorsman Oi am."
"When Oi need soimethin done in the wilderness Oi send 'im."
"When Oi need soimethin done that involves a bit of strongarmin, Oi send Grack."
"Not that oi ever need that."
"An when Oi need soime good food Oi 'ave Maelut do it."
"Ya got ta use wots available to ya."
Marroc inhales deeply and exhales just as fircefully. "If ya want ta be a better investigator ya just got ta choose the roight tools fer the job."
"Ah'd neverr thought..."
She shakes her head.
"Ah doon't have..."
She looks back at Marroc, considering, then shakes her head again.
"Therre isn't..."
Then suddenly, silence. An idea comes to her and she smiles, a light shining in her eyes.
"Ah wonderr if'n he'd help."
She considers the thought.
"Well, why not? Isn't that what the two of them do? No harrm in askin' anyway!"
In her joy, she reaches over the counter, tosses her arms about the halfling's neck, and gives Marroc a nice kiss. Then she sits back down and swigs the rest of her ale.
"Marrroc, yeh'rre a sweet, sweet doll!"
She jumps from the stool, grabs her bag, and dashes out the door.
Originally posted by Marroc
Once he reaches the table he turns his head and blows the smoke away from Angelique. "Tagg me boyo. Oi don't think that shirts gunna 'elp you blend in with the forest very well."
"Might not be to bad ta blend in with all the bards'oo aint left since the festival though."[/i]
Tagg looks back down at his shirt somewhat reluctantly.
"Well I think it turns back to normal color.. If not I have a spare set."
He takes a sip from his drink then looks over to Angelique.
"It does change back to normal, doesn't it?"
As he sits down, he hears Tagg's question.
"Yeah, it should wear off any second now. It only lasts for an hour. And I suppose I should stop playing around with it...someone might take offense. I hope Grack is colorblind."
*she sips her mead and looks pointedly at Maelut
"You're hungry? Well, I think the Last Lich Inn has some food. We're all out of it here, I don't think I'm allowed to serve people that pretend to be trees."
He stares deadly seriously at Angelique for a moment, and then produces two bowls of soup that he was carrying behind his back and places them in front of his friends.
"Just kidding, enjoy!"
Originally posted by Maelut
Maelut looks back at the elf with an intentionally blank stare. He looks confused.
"You're hungry? Well, I think the Last Lich Inn has some food. We're all out of it here, I don't think I'm allowed to serve people that pretend to be trees."
*she opens her mouth in disbelief, then shoves Tagg slightly
It's all your fault! You said you thought he was talking to a tree.
Originally posted by Maelut
He stares deadly seriously at Angelique for a moment, and then produces two bowls of soup that he was carrying behind his back and places them in front of his friends.
"Just kidding, enjoy!"
*looking embarrassed, she takes the stew meekly and the smiles
I'm glad your not mad at me! I'd hate to miss your cooking. And I was joking Tagg...seriously.
*giving Tagg a wink, she begins to eat her stew sneaking glances at the other two occasionally
Joseph walks in with a grin on his face.
"Hello everyone!" He seems extraordinarily cheerful. "How are all of you today? Me? I'm great."
He walks over to the bar and orders a bottle of wine. Joseph pulls out five silver coins and passes them to Wealdy. He takes the bottle of wine and a glass over to a table.
I can't believe the luck of this coin...
Joseph carefully opens the wine and pours it into the glass before sitting down in the wooded chair.
Perhaps you should go back to that boarding house tomorrow Patches, Joseph thinks. Then again, they were a pretty boring bunch...
Originally posted by Maelut
Maelut looks back at the elf with an intentionally blank stare. He looks confused.
"You're hungry? Well, I think the Last Lich Inn has some food. We're all out of it here, I don't think I'm allowed to serve people that pretend to be trees."
"But I didn't pretend to be a tree. Can I eat?"
He returns the serious face and ignores the gentle push from Angelique. As Maelut presents the soup he picks up a spoon and takes the first bite.
"Excellent as usual."
"Oh, and Angelique, of course I wouldn't eat whilst a little bard was sitting hungry." ;)
He attempts to cover up his earlier statement and continues to eat in silence.
Tagg takes a few more spoonfuls of the soup before looking up again at Maelut.
"All the silliness of late aside, perhaps we should start to talk about somethingn that might matter."
"Maelut, where is your hometown again? And if you are aware, it might be helpful to know what kind of terrain and how far we will be trekking to reach our destination."
He pauses and looks at Angelique as she gives him a pointed stare.
"Listen, Angelique wants to see if some of these kobolds can be reasoned with. So unless we see them attacking us or anyone else, we should let her try to talk to them first."
Maelut nods to the elf, hoping that she will find this an acceptable arrangement.
"Boirin said he might be able to bring another healer along, which would be a welcome addition to our group. It'll just be the five of us, or four if his friend decides not to come. Either way, we should leave within a couple of days."
"Once we're there, the plan is to make sure everyone in the town is safe, and then to try and track the kobolds back to their camp. I'm sure they have one now, since they've been more organized as of late."
"If they have a leader, then maybe Angelique can convince the leader to take the kobolds elsewhere. I doubt it, but I'm more than willing to let her try. I'll accept anything that leaves Sorat-Arlon in safety. If the kobolds refuse to stop, then I'm afraid we'll have to use force. Anyway, we'll know more about the situation once we're there, and so we shouldn't make any big decisions until then."
He pauses for a couple moments.
"That is fine to attempt, but we should have some kind of insurance that can be used in case someting were to go unaccording to this plan."
He takes another bite of the soup.
"Although, you are correct Maelut, we take it one step at a time. We'll get more details when we arrive."
"Our main focus for now is to just get there."
"Yes, that would certainly be a nice addition."
"Especially after our last venture, the importance of having one has grown in my mind."
------------
Inside his room, Joseph sets down the wine bottle and glass. The young bard secures the door with its lock.
Joseph growls, turns around, draws his dagger, and throws it into the opposite wall.
[to Elsewhere]
All that is left behind is the wine glass and partially finished wine.
[OoC: only a single glass is missing from the wine]
When he reaches the bar, he sets down a mug of the cider for the frail man.
"You haven't got much flesh to keep those bones warm. This ought to help a little. Just finished making it. Cloves, cinamon and a touch of powdered vanilla. Were you looking for me?"
.oO( I wonder what business he has in a place like this... He certainly doesn't fit the description of many of the people that come here.)
*her eyes follow the direction Tagg is looking after Maelut gets up, and she examines Ulerian briefly before looking back at Tagg
Do you know what language kobolds speak in? I hope it's a language I know, otherwise peace talks will be very difficult. I would think they are rational creatures, if maybe a bit disorganized. I should go and research some information on them, to better understand what I am dealing with. Maybe the Hightower, or a chuch library.
"Hay everyone, how goes the adventure?"
Boirin walks over and hops the bar pouring himself a beer and drinking it thirstily. Nodding to Angeliqué and cocking his head at Ulerian.
"So whos this?"
Boirin says indicating Ulerian.
"No, I'm afraid I'm not sure what they speak. Although I dont think research is necessary quite yet, Maelut will probably be able to fill in some of these questions. If i remember correctly he said this isn't the first time the kobolds have harassed Sorat Arlon."
I don't know, he has just walked in. He sought Maelut out.
*Looking back to Tagg, she shrugs and steeples her fingers
I'm sure Maelut knows, as you said, he has been around them before. But I can't remember whether I have heard that or not.
[OoC: Angeliqué will make a Knowledge (Arcana) check to find out what language Kobolds speak. +4 modifier]
"My name is Ulerian, you are the cook? I come from the High Tower. My supierors want me to accompany you and your friends on your endevor. I am simply going as a representative of the High Tower. I am to aid you if need be in completing your task. I will be given potions for the party use, healing potions. I need to know when you plan to set out.. You may not want me to go, it is little matter to me, but keep in mind the High Tower, and it's influence. Talk amoungst your people, I will return in the morning."
Ulerian stands waiting for a response, he does smell the cider but does not drink it.
"Friend, I just gave you a mug of the finest cider this side of a dwarven mine. And you let your nose have all the fun, leaving your tongue to go lonely. I'd be offended, but it means more for me."
He grins, and waits for a laugh. He hears none, and continues on in a less jovial tone.
"We'd welcome a spellcaster onto the team. Especially one who brings potions from the Hightower. I assume you mean that they would be available to whoever needed them, and the price would be sorted out later. But never mind, we'll work that out on the road."
"And I wouldn't recommend leaving, since the rest of the group is already here. Let me introduce you to them."
Escorting the wizard over to the table where his friends have gathered. He pulls up a chair for the wizard and sits down. One by one, he introduces the group to Ulerian.
"Well, now that's over with. I've been growing more worried about my town...the longer we wait the worse it'll get. I think we should set off as soon as possible. I have everything I need, but I don't know about the rest of you. We can meet back here tomorrow, and then we should go."
He takes a deep breath, and then continues with something that has obviously been bothering him.
"I don't have a plan once we get there, other than finding the kobolds and stopping them once and for all. Hopefully we can do that without force,"
With this, he nods to Angelique.
"But I will do what I must to protect the town. Has anyone thought of anything else that we've forgotten to do, before we set off?"
He looks to Maelut.
"Assuming you feel it is alright we postpone our travels one more day?"
"I must gather my things for the road, and get the potions. They will be provided, I do not think the Hightower will make you pay for any used. I will be one hour. "
Ulerian looks to the group, then to Maelut. He nods once to Maelut and exits the inn for the Hightower.
"Thats good cider."
"I too, will need some time to get set up. Mostly to get my armor on and pack some things. Strange fellow that Ulerian, he has a disconcerting look abouth him."
I think he needs more food, that would make him less cranky and a little fatter. Why are wizards always so cranky? Are books really that boring?
"Well, what time of day do you want to set out? Under cloak of night or break of dawn? It will help to determine in what order I'll want to make my stops."
"Why not do it now and be done with it??"
He goes back to reading and writing down.
*she winks at him, hoping that beneath the cold demeanor there is a spark of humor
We need to pack stuff, and perhaps get some supplies. Rations, tindertwigs and the like.
*she smiles at the prospect of spending several days near to nature, then looks at Maelut, waiting for his response to Tagg
Maelut looks around, and can't help but feel secure knowing the friends he'll be travelling with. He looks with masked concern at Ulerian, feeling a little uncomfortable about allowing someone he barely knows to join them on the trip. He pulls Ulerian aside, out of earshot of the others.
"Ulerian, I mean no offense by this, but I'm somewhat concerned about you joining us. I understand the Hightower wanting to send a representative, I've come to understand that they are quite a powerful organization in the city. But I just want you to know that I expect you to protect the village as the rest of us will. Not knowing what we face, we must rely on trust. You can trust us, and we shall trust you unless you give us reason not to. I wouldn't even be saying this, but you must admit that your appearance is somewhat...dark. As I said, I mean no offense. Just a reminder that whatever task the Hightower has assigned you, our job is to protect the village."
He turns and goes back to the table without waiting for a reply, sitting next to Angelique.
"So, now to the heart of the matter. What food shall I bring to eat on the trail?"
"Stays here Major, an keeps an eye out fer any sneaky type guys."
"I'll be wantin ta talk them as soon as I finish talking inside."
*Major yawns, and lays down a few feet from the entrance. The dog half closes its eyes and pretends to sleep.*
*Hermy pushes open the door to the inn, and strides inside.*
"Hey Mister Have-Orc! Is Marroc here? I needs ta talks to him about findin some sneaks!"
*Grack does not respond.*
"I cin wait fer a bit. "
Originally posted by Maelut
"So, now to the heart of the matter. What food shall I bring to eat on the trail?"
Good food? I don't know I'm not the cook.:P
*she thinks about it for a few moments
I suppose food that keeps and doesn't get crushed by being in a pack easily. Nuts, rations, bread, jerky and that sort of thing. We can always set snares for rabbit or something near the campground. Will you bring pots to compliment your knives?
[i]Boirin's mind voice off in its own direction, lost in thought.[i]
"It's not a picnic without pie. You're gunna wanna takes some pie with you."
"Pie? I don't think that we can carry pie in our packs. It would get all squishy and inedible."
"Yer Sir Hermy arn't you? Why is there anything I can get you?"
"Well most the time at least. I didn't have some pie once that was the best thing I never ate."
"But I ate never been able to bake anything like it wasn't."
*Hermy sighs.* "So squishy pie will have to do."
*Hermy moves away from the bar and closer to the adventurers.*
"Where's you going fer yer picnic? I'd go to the Church of Aggie the Loose ifen I were you. Its magically always spring there so you don't has worry about getting a cold but."
Originally posted by Boirin son of Naerin
Looks down at the halflings red pants, and a question bubbles up into his mind.
"Yer Sir Hermy arn't you? Why is there anything I can get you?"
"Yup thats me."
"Well I coulds use some pie. It's not as good here as back at the guilds, but it's not bad neither."
*Hermy smiles.*
"Is came looking fer Marroc and some boring guy I was told waskinda sneaky."
"Ise got a preposel fer them."
"Boring did you say? My names Boirin, I spose I can be sneaky when I need to."
"I needs some sneaky peoples fer a scouting mission ta saves the city from an army of orcs, an evil priests, an a very ugly troll."
"Gamis tolds me you was interested in doing some srvice fer the city.. Well this'll be a service."
"We'll be doing it as Jackals, though we won't hafta wear the ugly uniforms cause we won't really be jackals. At least not ifen yoy don't want ta be one."
"Not that theres anything wrong with being a jackal ifen thats what you want. Darkar seems to like it."
"I would love to help but I've already obligated myself to help clear out the kobalds out of Maelut here's town. How soon are we starting? Cause I can start once I get back if time is not of immediate importance."
Buy a box, with a little straw or rags to line it, and put the pie in the box. It won't get squished that way, and you can have pie on your picnic to the church. When are you going anyway? Maelut's a really good cook, do you want him to cook your picnic for you?
*tapping her fingers on he table, she sings softly to herself as Hermy talks to Maelut and Boirin.
"An finds the peoples Ise gots ta trains too, so it aint gunna be anytime soon."
"I was hoping ta be able to get a chance to see hows sneaky you was before we goes, but ifen youse gotsa a city ta saves... well thats pretty good training rights there."
"I didn't becomes a great hero by not saving cities after all."
*Hermy notices Marrocs office door opening, and waves at Marroc before finishing talking to Boirin.*
"Well I'd better go talks ta Marroc now. Ise hopping he'll be coming too. He used ta be a hero ya know."
"Backs before he got so old."
*Hermy waves to Boirin and his associates and starts walking towards Marrocs office. He stops at the door to make one more addition to the conversation.*
"Oh! An if ya knows anyone else whose sneaky lets me know. Wese gunna need a lot a scouts."
*And he ackknowledges Angeliques suggestion.*"I don't picnic no more. Thats fer ... other peoples now."
"But the church is a good place. Lots a daffodils."
*Hermy enters Marrocs office, and Marroc stands outside the door looking at his employees for a second and then shakes his head.*
*Marroc enters his office and closes the door behind him.*
Off for now. Be back in a few hours if anyone is still awake.
"Pie.. Mmmm.."
"Sure, Maelut, make us a few. I personally like blueberry, cherry..."
"...Oh hell just about any berry." ;)
He stands up and stretches from his long period of sitting.
"So we will set out in the morning? Sounds good. I'll be on my way to get some rest then I want to stop by the market. I'll try to be here as early as I can."
He looks to the rest of the companions.
"I suppose all of you will be here anyways, except Ulerian, so let's make the point of congregation here."
"Farewell and see you in the morning, all."
Tagg excuses himself and heads out the door and onto the streets as he begins on his way back to the boarding house for some rest before the long day of travel.
To Elsewhere
Ulerian leans forward closing his book, and stares directly at Mealut.
As for my appearance, that is irrelevant... I will provide plenty of resorces to make for my 'dark' look."he adds cynically, and then relaxes, sitting back in his chair and sipping his tea.
"Now... you are all worrying about food, are we not going only a day's travel, to an inhabited village? I have gathered that much... I do not think we need worry about what we will eat weeks or months from now...Overpreparation leads to delay, which allows this threat to grow...this is not a picnic.."
Ulerian scribbles a few notes, places his things in his pack, and packs his pipe. He smokes silently.
.o0(But, perhaps he's right. You can't judge everyone by the way that they look. I doubt there's anything wrong, really.)
Tagg approaches the inn but instead of heading into the main building he branches off and walks towards the stables to the side of it. As he enters Piper can be seen giving one of the mules its daily feed.
"Hi.."
He manages to get out as he drops the bag of feed and saddle on the floor.
"Hello, Mister. And..."
He pauses as the equipment lands with a thud.
"...How may I help you?"
"Well I'll be looking to take Brie out for a couple days. That's 'im."
Tagg points towards a lght brown colored donkey with white splotches around its feet and neck. Piper turns to look at the indicated mount.
"Yes, yes of course. I remember Brie."
Piper looks down at the saddle.
"Have you brought that to put on him?"
"Yes, thank you."
Piper nods and hoists up the saddle. He expertly attaches the piece to Brie, skills developed from untold seasons of experience.
"There you go, sir. Anything else you need help with?"
"Nah, I can fill it up myself."
Tagg approaches Brie and after a gentle stroke behind its ears he takes off his backpack and extracts the package of feed from it as well as the one he had just purchased and stores them in the bags on each side of the saddle, then unattaches his own bedroll and fastens it to the back of it. Brie doesn't seem to have much of a reaction as the gear is placed on him. When Tagg is done he puts his backpack back on.
"Amin nauva n'alaquel rato... Lye autuvaien 'no ai lemuva."
He speaks to the donkey calmly with a smile. He pats it on the head before turning.
"I'll be back to get him soon, just going inside for a little bit."
He hands Piper a few coins (5 copper) as a tip then walks out of the stable and heads inside the inn where he sees the rest of the group gathered.
"Good morning, all. I have all my preparations made."
He takes off his backpack and sets it on the floor before taking a seat.
"Oh, and I think I'm goig to bring Brie, my donkey, if you don't mind."
Brie (male donkey, medium-sized animal, mundane mount), HD 2d8+2 (11 hp); Initiative: +1; Speed: 30'; Armor Class: 13 (+1 Dex +2 natural); BAB: +1; Attack: Bite +1 melee (1d2 damage); Space/Reach: 5 ft./5 ft.; SQ: low-light vision, scent; Saves: Fort +4, Ref +4, Will +0; Abilities: Str 10/+0, Dex 13/+1, Con 12/+1, Int 2/-4, Wis 11/+0, Cha 4/-3; Skills: Balance +3, Listen +3, Spot +2; Feats: Endurance; Load: 0-50 lb. light, 51-100 lb. medium, 101-150 lb. heavy, 750 lb. drag
Brie's Load (light encumbrance; 40/50 lb.):
pack saddle (15 lb.)
feed, 2 days (20 lb.)
bedroll (5 lb.)
Tagg's Load (light encumbrance; 48/58 lb.):
studded leather (worn, 20 lb.)
explorer's outfit (worn, 8 lb.)
silver bracelet (worn [left wrist], 0 lb.)
scimitar (left shoulder, 4 lb.)
short sword (belt right front, 2 lb.)
flask, full/water (belt left back, 2 lb.)
3 daggers (belt chest, 3 lb.)
composite shortbow (above backpack, 2 lb.)
quiver of 20 mundane arrows (right shoulder, 3 lb.)
backpack (center back, 2 lb.)
trail rations, 4 days (backpack, 4 lb.)
flint and steel (backpack, 0 lb.)
====
included in case remotely needed ;)
*she looks up at the wooden sign hangin in front of the door and walks inside to te smoke filled inn*
.oO(Not much changed I see)
*she nods to Grack who stands by Marroc's office and takes a seat at the bar*
"Well, it looks like we're ready to go. I'll head out to the gates, anyone who's coming, follow me!"
With this, he heads out the door to the city gates.
[To Elsewhere]
to Elsewhere
[purchices three days trail rations. don't have my books so I'll edit costes in later]
[to elsewere]
Originally posted by Hermy the Hero
*Marroc enters his office and closes the door behind him.*[/i]
"'Ermy me boyo. Wot cin Oi do fur ya?"
*Marroc motions for Hermy to have a seat in the large cushioned chair.*
*Hermy plops down on it and sighs.*
"Sure is a comfy chair. I cin see why you spends so much time in yer office. If I had a chair like this I might gives up heroing too likes you did."
*Marroc smiles and lights up his pipe before leaning against his desk.*
"Oi gave up adventuring before Oi got the chair."
"A lot o' moi adventurin loot went inta the chair. An the inn."
*Hermy sighs again, this time not a sigh of comfort though.* "I don't thinks I'lls ever get me a chair. I don't thinks Ise gunna ever give up heroing. It's all I gots."
"Well if ya got yerself a chair ya'd 'ave that."
"Nah, I don't think Alissa woulds thinks a chairs a good trade fer saving lives."
*Marroc takes a long puff on his pipe, before speaking.*"She was a lovely lass. Oi don't think she'd deny ya a simple pleasure loike a good chair."
"No she wouldn't."
"But it just don't seem right. If ya knows what I means."
"Shes doing some task fer the Mother. It wouldn't seem fair fer me ta just sit around relaxing while shes out savings the world."
*Marroc takes another long drag off his pipe.*
"Lad. Yer welcome ta coime sit in moi chair when ya feel loike taking a break."
"Thanks. But I don't thinks I'll has time fer relaxing. Ise got an assignment I needs to do."
"Thats why Ise here."
*Marroc puffs on his pipe again and waits for Hermto continue speaking.*
"Ise gunna be training scouts fer the Jackals."
"An then going outs to scouts on the fort with all the orcs."
"Oim not surprised. Oi didna think the Lords would forget something loike that."
"Nope. Me neither."
*Hermy gets out of the chair and stands in front of it.* "Has you ever considered going adventuring again? The Jackals could use the help."
"I knows ya used ta be pretty good at it. Ya gots ta be ta slay dragons and giants."
"Ise done it, so I knows."
*Marroc puts down his pipe.*
"'Ermy. Lad. Moi adventuring days are long over. Oi don't move loike I used too."
"But yer still a halfling. An I bet yer still twice as sneaky as most everyone else."
*Marroc laughs.*"Ya know, most people don't take being called sneaky a compliment."
"But ya aint most people. Yer a hero."
"Or at least you used to be."
"I'm betting you an Durin were almost as good a pair as me an Durin was at saving the city."
*Marroc stops laughing.*
"We did make a good team. Thats fur sure."
*Marroc shakes his head.*"But that was a long toime ago."
"Oi've got a buisness ta run now."
"Mister Have-orc could run it while youse out."
"'Grack? 'e's not excatly a good socializer. 'e'd be more likely ta cut off soime ones 'ead then cut off their drinks if they got out of 'and."
"Besides. Would you go out adventuring without Minto?"
"Ifen I had too. But 'es pretty sneaky too. An a bard. I'm pretty sure Mister Have-orc aint."
"He don't seem ta be the singing type."
"Oi wouldna say that. 'es not a bad singer if ya lokie the word 'die'. An if ya cin 'ear it over the sound o'is axe smashin inta soimone."
*Hermy shrugs.* "That don't seem ta be the best way ta keeps an audience."
"At least I doubts it woulds work fer Minto."
"Bit Ise a hero, not a bard."
*Hermy shrugs again.*
"Is he sneaky?"
*Marroc takes a puff off his pipe.*
""es not in the same class with either of us. But 'e aint a clanking knoight."
"An 'e knows when ta stay put."
"Well that is an important thing. He coulds always guards our escape routes ifen we needed ta escape."
"That 'e could."
"That is if we were ta be going with ya."
"An Oi don't think we will be."
"Loike Oi said. Moi adventuring days are behoind me."
"But.. "
"Oim sorry about it me boyo, but Oi've too much going on 'ere ta just pack up an leave ta go out adventuring."
"But the city needs you!"
"Oi don't doubt that. But so does moi inn."
"But ifen theres no city, then there aint no inn either!"
"Oi don't think that's soimethin Oi need ta be worrying about just yet."
"Afterall yer out there protectin the city."
"Oi think it's in good 'ands."
*Marroc stops in mid-puff.*
"Whoi would ya think that?"
"I couldn'ts even saves my wife. Or Natala when she doeded. Or Durin. Or Ivan. Or Arnor."
"Thats only five peoples I couldn't saves. An theres a lots more then that in the city."
"An there'ld be a lot less if it weren't fer you an yer friends."
"Ya can't save everyone. Ya got ta troi ta saves as many as ya cun though."
"I coulds saves a lot more ifen ya were ta come on the scoutin trip with us."
*Marroc laughs again.*
"'Ermy. Ya really are a sneaky lad aint ya."
*Hermy briefily smiles.*
"Well I is the guilds trainer at it."
*The smile fades.*
"But I'm really not sure Ise sneaky enough."
"The last time I scouted ups there aint gone so well."
"Me, an Darkar, an Dumboven, an Kirby didn't scouts well enoughs ta see how big the orc force was. Or that they had dragons an trolls."
"A lot of Jackals died cause of that."
"I don't want that ta happen again."
"No, Oi don't think ya would."
*Marroc frowns.*
"'Ermy. Oi'd loike ta 'elp. But Oi 'ave a job ta do 'ere."
"Theres more ta runnin moi inn then ya think."
"Theres more ta saving the city then you'd think."
"I left my wife on our honeymoon ta go outs an keeps yer inn safe from the army."
*Finally Marroc breaks the silence.*
"That you did my boyo. That you did."
*Hermy moves towards the door of the office. and opens it.*
"I never saw her alives again."
*Hermy stands in doorway.*
"Some hows I don'ts thinks you'll has that problem with yer inn."
*Hermy quickily leaves the office and then stalks out of the inn without waving good bye to Grack.*
*Marroc steps out of the office and mumbles to himself.*
"Yer roight about that moi boyo. Yer roight about that."
*Grack does not respond.*
"Oi think Oi need a break Grack. Oim going fer a walk. Oi'll be back in the morning."
Grack nods.
Marroc retreats back into his office to get his cloak and then exits the inn.
Originally posted by Anaya
[From Elsewhere]
*she looks up at the wooden sign hangin in front of the door and walks inside to te smoke filled inn*
.oO(Not much changed I see)
*she nods to Grack who stands by Marroc's office and takes a seat at the bar*
Marroc strolls into the inn, and nods to Grack before heading into his office to hang up his cloak.
And then he takes his place at the bar and starts wiping his favorite glass clean. He nods at Anaya.
"Oi 'aven't seen you around in awhoile."
Yeah I know, just been busy off doing other things...though it feels nice to visit at least once in a while.
Marroc continues wiping the glass. "'ow are these other things different then wot ya usually do?"
"Oi get the impression wot ya usually do is wot most people would call 'other things'"
Marroc sets down the glass and lights up his pipe.
I don't really know. Things just turning up that hadn't been there before...
*she pauses*
More like me trying to get back to myself..if that makes any sense.
*she shrugs and orders an ale*
(Elven: Hello, beautiful lady. My name is Tyros Elessar and you are the first elf I've seen in a life time, other than my own father. A sight to behold, indeed. May I dare to ask you your name?
He turns to Marroc, who's still drawing small puffs from his pipe.
(Comon: Good day, sir. It is a good Inn you have here. Is it possible for you to serve me some water? Thank you.
He looks back at Anaya, to admire her beauty.
"A mug o'ale might be a better choice."
"It's a bit safer if ya know wot Oi mean. This is the sloms afterall."
Marroc grabs a mug and waits for Tyros to respond.
Assume your self served. Most likely I won't e on again for another 10 hours or more.
Aer..... I must say that I do not know what is ale. My father may have taught me what that meant but I do not know what it is. Maybe in elven I would know, but, a last, my comon isn't that good. Maybe I should try it, if you advise me to it. Thanks to you.
Marroc serves the mug of ale to Tyros who takes it, and with a frown smells it. The intense odor of the drink penetrates the sensitive nostrils of the elf.
Is this meant to smell so nasty? I only hope it does not taste equally.
Tyros takes a sip of the ale, tasting it in its mouth for a while. He frowns again. He swallows the small portion of the drink he sipped with some dificulty.
It has a horrible taste for it. No offense, of course, my good friend, but I would prefer some clean water. Either that or some juice, please.
He puts down the mug and pushes it over to Marroc who looks to him and rolls his eyes.
No offense taken, boyo. But oi thinks ya would be better 'ith a warm mug of ale. 'Ere's ya glass o' water. Oi don't have juice 'round 'ere. Unless it's some fermented grape juice tha' you'r lookin' fer. Sorry.
Tyros eagerly takes the glass of water and gulps its content away, washing thebad flavour of the ale off his mouth.
Thank you, my friend, I was needing that.
(e)Greetings to you as well. Tis nice to hear the elven tongue. Common just seems to crowd over everything with noise and words.
*she sips on her ale and looks at Tyros*
(e) The name's Anaya...and I wouldn't suggest the water here if you want to live very long...just the smell of it would make a grown human sick.
*she muses as he talks to Marroc about his ale*
It's not so bad after you've had it a couple of times, but the first is always an interesting experience... it helps to add some honey to the ale, to help it go down and gets rid of the sour smell of the yeast.
(Elven: Anaya... that's a beautiful name, indeed. And it won't loose its beauty in any mouth it is spokenned with.
Tyros listens carefully to Anaya's advice on the ale. He becomes curious and intrigued.
(Elven: Well, that water tasted heavenly to me, mainly because I've been a couple of days without any drink. I don't think i should drink the ale but... Since you have so kindly instructed me in a way to drink it, I will give it another try.
Tyros smiles and takes the mug of ale being served to a nearby drunk man. He then takes a small keg off his backpack and pours some honey into it.
(Comon: You won't be wanting another one of these, sir. (Elven: And this... is a little something I use with a deer's milk. Just for the flavour.
The drunk man leaves the place mumblinig and cursing away at a wooden wall. Tyros sips a little bit of honeyed Ale,
It's within the same flavour but sweeter. Must've been your voice, Anaya.
So, may I ask what is it that you do when not conquering lost traveller's hearts? Tyros smiles at Anaya, waiting for an answer.
.oO(If he keeps doing things like that... he isn't going to live very long)
*she takes another sip of her ale and listens to the man curse as he leaves, more worried at what Billa will say than the man walking out the door*
*she shakes her head and muses a bit taking another sip*
You're just filled with compliments aren't you?
*she smiles*
What I do? I work in the ways of the natural world, herbalism becoming mroe of my trade than anything else.
Originally posted by Tyros Elessar
Tyros smiles and takes the mug of ale being served to a nearby drunk man. He then takes a small keg off his backpack and pours some honey into it.
Marroc motions for Grack to lower the axe he raised and growls at Anaya. "Oi think ya moight want to explain ta yer little friend there that Grack aint to fond o'thieves."
Marroc hobbles from behind the bar to chase down the leaving customer.
"'Old on there a minute Ichabode. Oi'll get ya a few rounds. On the 'ouse."
Marroc turns to glare at Tyros before escorting the man to a table and personally taking his order.
(Elven: My father used to tell me that one should always talk with seet words to a woman, an elvish woman, at least, should those words be true. I can't help but to talk sweet in front of a person who can make my honey's bitter in comparison to her, just by being around.
He shuts up. And then continues to speak.
I did it again, didn't I?
Tyros smiles again. His thin lips parting away to show his white teeth.
(Elven: Herbalism, you say. Yes, I have some knowledge on the matter but i prefer animals, rather than plants. I love them still but I can't help feeling stagnated when looking at an herb or a tree. I get fascinated with the simple sight of a deer feasting on the tender grass, in the plains, or the mighty wolf caring for his family in the winter. And animals are good companions when you feel lonely..
[i] Tyros' face saddens for a while, while he remembers the lonely days of his youth, when squirrels and birds were the only ones to whom he could comunicate with, even if in a very archaic way. By gestures and actions, mostly. His face lightens up again when he remembers about Anaya sitting in front of him. [/b]
(Elven: Well, It's been a pleasure talking with you, my lady. But I fear that i must be going. You should not refrain from asking anything to me. If I can help you in any way, I will do so. Just say it to a stray dog or to a singing bird, and one of them will lead the message to me, most likely.
Be well, my fair lady. Tyros takes a small bow to Anaya and another to Marroc. He then walks to the door. He gets out and back in again, very quicly.
(comon: I almost forgot. Sorry about that, Billa!
Tyros throws a Gold coin into billa's hands.
(e) It was nice meeting you... I'm sure we will run into each other again.
*she turns to look at Marroc and shakes her head*
*she takes a sip of her ale and pauses*
You wouldn't happen to know a human ranger by the name of Tensek would you?
"Oi can't say that Oi do. But 'e might not use 'is real name in 'ere. Wot does 'e look loike?"
Marroc hustles back to Ichabodes table and delivers the ale before returning to the bar.
He's a bit taller than me... black hair... grey eyes. He's kind of quiet and to himself. He hasn't been in the city for very long though...maybe a few months at the most.
He does have somewhat of a temper though and has an odd feeling to him.
*she pause for a moment as she thinks*
He's also good friends with a dwarf named Burleg.
"The dwarf Oi do know."
"A trouble maker."
"Can't say Oi've meet yer ranger friend though. Ya just described a good portion o' moi customers."
I have only met Burleg a couple of times...not to fond of him either, but I do remember Tensek mentioning that he knew Burleg.
I thought maybe Tensek had been in here before with the dwarf...
*she pauses*
Yeah I can understand that...
*she sips her ale and thinks*
.oO(He doesn't seem to be the type to ventre to the LLI often. but maybe there are places around this area where he has been)
Say would you know of any places that might know where I could find him?
"But then again neither or druids."
Yes that is very true..
*she takes another drink*
But still there are alot of rangers staying in the city... and I am sure he is one of them... I have recently seen him at the winter festival at the LLI with a half elf bard named Lucian and..
*she turns her head to the side a bit as she recalls*
...and another fellow...quite the shadowy character... kept a scarf over his face and wore a dark cloak over dark clothes.
*she shakes the picture from her head*
I'll check it out...
Any other places where I could possibly look?
"Ya could troi looking in the market. A lot of the bards loike ta disterb innocent shoppers there with their singing an carrying on."
True, but Lucian isn't that kind of a bard..more of a performer, an actor than a singer.
Where does this Lucien live? Ya moight troi lookin around there fer 'im."
Last time I talked to him was here I beleive, but I am sure if he was staying here you would've told me already.
*she looks at Marroc as she drinks some more of her ale*
"Oi'd almost rather 'ave a spellflinger stayin 'ere then an actor. At least they cin pay their bills."
Marroc frowns and waves Wealdy over.
"Sorry Oi couldna 'elp ya, but Oi've got soime buisness Oi've got ta tend too."
Marroc opens the door to his office and waits for Wealdy to go in. A few words of the conversation carry out of the room before the door closes.
"If either o'them gets back whoile Grack an..."
.oO(Hmm... there is something going on... I am sure if he would recognize any of his customers he would definately recognize Lucian or Tensek for that matter...)
.oO(There is more going on than what he is telling me...)
*she looks at the door for a moment, then pays for her ale and leaves*
To Elsewhere
Marroc escorts Wealdy out of his office and then motions for Billa to enter.
"Oim gunna need ta tolk ta ya to Billa."
"Oi'll tip ya moiself ta make up fer wot ya'll miss out on."
Billa only mumbles briefly before entering the office. Marroc closes the door and Grack steps in front of it.
He watches the people in the room, noticing thatthey are looking at him with mistrustful eyes.
.o0(Dont blame em, I'd think I was a bandit or worse in this get up... but it gets the job done.)
When Billa comes to take his order he quiety askes for an ale and a nights stay in thier cheapest room, after she tells him the price he slides the silver and copper coins to her across the table.
.o0(It feels so good to rest, that ale will taste so good when it gets here...I'll ask the barkeep about jobs and the liek in the morning.)
Billa returns with a mug of ale, and places it on the table, and tells him how to get to the common room.
When she leaves he lets out a deep sigh. Takes a sip of the ale and pulls out a whet stone, a pint of oil and a rag.
He then gets to the business of sharpening his great sword, long sword and two daggers.
After a good deal of time he leans back, shuts his eyes, and dozes off.
**after a few hours Brand wakes up and wanders upstairs to the common room then finds a spot to sleep in**
He hands Wealdy a sheet of paper. "Oi want ya ta take an inventory o'wot we got 'ere in stock roight now."
"Kegs, bottles, an even glasses."
Once Wealdy has started counting Marroc lights up his pipe and wanders through his inn, stopping to check for lose floorboards, windows that let drafts in, chipped washbasins.
He lets out a heavy sigh when entering each room.
Once again he goes off to find a table off to the side, preferably away from the fire place, where he can get a good view of the whole room.
When Billa comes to take his order he quickly orders an ale and what ever is available for breakfast. He then pays the silver and copper.
Brand sits at the table slowly eating and drinking just watching the others at the Inn.
.o0( Well here I am, out in a large city for the first time. If I play my cards right here I just might be able to make a name for myself. Play them wrong and I may still make a name for myself, just not a good one.)
.o0( Before I do anything I have got to learn more about this place. I need to know who is who, who to talk to for information, who to talk to for better information. I have got to figure this place out or else I wont get very far at all.)
Brand sits quietly thinking as others come and go.
"Ya need anything else me boyo?"
He lights up his pipe and looks at the man.
'Oh um..'
Brand looks down at the table for a second his eye that Marroc can see sqiunts just a bit as he thinks for a moment.
.o0( Information! Come on now is your chance to learn some things about this place, and maybe find some work.)
'Actually, maybe you can help me with something. I am new to this city, and I need to find some work. I'm an honest man who can weild a sword and shield competently enough. Currently I am bounty hunter, but I lack a bounty to hunt. Might you know of any, or any other work a fellow like my self might want to look into?"
.o0( Oh, great... I only said how much useless information in that statement? Too much, next time its to the point no filler, I cannot go around giving out information on myself like that... its not safe.)
[i] after he finishes saying that his half face flashes a quick look as if e said too much,
but then returns to normal. [i]"But Oi seem ta recall 'e got a few jobs boi checkin with the goirds back at the chapterhouse."
"Ya moight want ta check that out."
Marroc takes another puff.
"Or ya could troi the Silver Sword Adventurers Guild."
"Oi doubt they'd let ya join until ya meet a few requirements, but once ya do that, they tend ta get a lot o' the 'igh profile jobs 'ere in the city."
"Silver Sword Adventurers Guild, or the Guard Chapter house eh? Alright I'll go look there, could you sorta point me the right direction to them? Thank you, mister.. um, I don't believe you gave me your name, mine is Brand."
"An this is moi inn."
Marroc offers out his hand.
"It's a pleasure ta meet ya Brand me boyo."
Marroc takes another puff from his pipe.
"The Silver Swords over in the ware'ouse district, slightly northwest o' 'ere."
"An the chapter 'ouse is a bit north o' the market."
"Any goird cin direct ya to it."
"Pleasure meeting you as well good sir."
With that Brand gathers his stuff and leaves the inn.
off to elsewhere
Brand enters the Inn a while after he left. He goes and takes a seat at the same table he was in earlier.
He orders some lunch, pays, and as he eats it he fiddles with his manacles, oiling and cleaning them.
"Judgin boi 'ow soon yer back, Oi take ie ya didna foind much in the way o'work didya lad?"
Marroc takes a puff from his pipe.
"It's not the easiest thing ta build a reputation around 'ere. At least until ya got yerself a reputation."
Marroc smiles.
"An Oi may know somethin that cin 'elp with that."
"Ya probably won't get paid fer it, but Oim sure you'll make a lot o'people 'appy if ya take the job."
"There's a 'alftuck roamin the streets around 'ere that's been causin trouble fer a long whoile."
"If ya could get a hold o' 'im, well it's a way ta get yer name out there ta the authorities."
Hello Marroc, No I wasnt able to find any work, so far the only thing not taken care of is something called striker that I have been told Im not strong enough to handle.
Brand perks up a bit when marroc tells him he may have soemthing for him.
Oh, really? Do tell.
.o0(What is an alftuck?)
I usually prefor jobs in which I know I will get paid but if it will help me get my name out there I will look into it. How much can you tell me about this 'alftuck?
Marroc watches the smokering float away.
"Wot cin Oi tell ya about the 'alftuck? Well... 'e's a dirty sneaky fellow loike all 'avetuvks."
"Used ta team around with 'is two brothers. Muggin' innocent people, an startin bar foights. Typical 'avetuck activities."
"One o' is brothers disopeared a whoile ago under mysterious circumstances, an the other one got 'imself killed a few days ago when he troid ta rob the wrong people."
"Moi cook an a stringstrummer boi the name o' Joseph killed one but the other got away. Grack tracked 'im fer a bit but lost the trail near the shantytowm."
"'e maay be a 'avetuck, but 'e's still a 'alfling, even if only barely."
"We aren't the easiest folk ta foind if we're troin ta avoid being found." Marroc takes another deep puff of his pipe. "An this 'avetuck 'as a lot o'reasons fer wantin ta do that."
"Rumour 'as it, 'es on the prowl again. An without 'is brothers ta back 'im up, 'es a bit more desperate."
"'E aint given much of a wornin before 'e strikes."
"Nearly killed a few men a bit south o'here two days ago. "it them from beind. The only reason they know it was 'im, is someone stumbled onto 'im as 'e was goin' through the men's coats."
Marroc looks at Brands manacles. "Ya could troi an take 'im alive. Theres a lot o' people that would want ta watch 'im hang, but Oi don't think they'll moind not seeing 'im die if it comes ta that."
"As long as 'e aint prowlin the streets anymore."
Halfling, hmmm shanty town, well I'll try to bring him in alive if I can, but if he insists on it I have no problems bringing him back dead.
Oh and if you still have room, I'd like to stay another night here in the common room.
Brand hands Marroc the coins for the nights rent.
.o0(Halfling, so someone around the size of Marroc, yeah not gonna be easy to find. Hmm i wonder if my manacles would even hold wrists that small...)
Brand sits at the table and plans things out for the next few hours.
.o0(Well Marroc said he nearly killed a few men comin at them from behind. I must watch my back when after that one then, I don't want to find myself with a nasty surprise in it.)
Hours later...
.o0(Hmm its pretty dark out, it has to be a few hours off sunrise by now.. I may as well try my luck tonight,while its still night, can't hurt much... well...)
Brand stands, replaces the manacles back to their spot on his belt, and steps out into the night/early morning air.
to elsewhere
Brand walks in, and goes right up to the common room and falls asleep.
.o0(Well.. lets see, I learned that was not the best way to go about looking for a sneak thief. I probably scared more of the peopel in that little town place then was needed.. dumb brand... very dumb.)
After he has finished all of his weapons Brand steps outside.
to elsewhere
Brand steps into the Inn and heads right for the bar. He doesnt take a seat however.
Marroc is busy serving a few men at the bar, so Brand waits for an opportune moment to interrupt.
'Scuse me Marroc, when your not busy, I would like to pay for another nights stay in the common room.
Brand says quickly as he places the silver on the bar and slides it towards Marroc.
.o0(dont know if I'll be back in to enjoy it though...)
"Oim always 'appy ta give a man a place ta sleep if 'es willing ta give me a few coins."
Marroc lights up his pipe.
"So, 'ow goes the 'unting?"
Could be better, but I'm going to be out most of the night, just sorta keepin low profile as best I can.
Brand laughs a bit to himself when he hears himself say that.
.o0(low profile... you stand taller then anyone you've seen...)
"Most of moi customers only come out at noight."
"Ya'll get a better bed too."
With that Brand leaves the inn to go wander the streets
Brand comes in from the streets and heads to common room finds a spot, and goes to sleep.
Brodda enters the inn looking a bit downcast and heads straight for Grack. With a look of determination, she stands right in front of him, hands on her hips.
"Wherre's Marroc, Stoneface?"
He doesn't answer, or even flinch, much to the dwarfess' consternation -- however she thinks she may have seen an eyelid twitch.
She folds her arms across her chest and waits.
"Moi new cook rearranged everything before 'e left on an adventure, an now Wealdy can't seem ta foind anything."
"'E aint use ta things being where they are suppose ta be."
Marroc lights up his pipe and grabs two mugs as he slips behind the bar.
"Now then, wot cin Oi do fer ya."
He winks. "Besoides gettin ya soime of the good stuff."
"Thanks!"
She turns and climbs onto a barstool.
"Marrroc, Ah'm gooin' teh ask yeh point blank."
She takes the filled mug and prepares to toss the contents back into her throat and down her gullet, nearly forgetting that she was holding a mug of Greycloak ale.
.oO(This stuff won't last ferreverr. Ah'd betterr take it easy.)
She takes a small sip as Marroc waits patiently for her to be point blank. She looks at him.
"Oh, rright. Soorrry. Got distrracted therre. Now, what was Ah sayin'? Oh..."
She takes a larger gulp of ale then sets the mug down.
"Marrroc, Ah need teh knoow if Minto is exactly what he says he is and what he seems teh be."
Marroc takes a sip of his beer and tries to gauge Brodda's reaction.
"Oim surprised ya 'ad ta ask."
"Yer skilled enough ta know 'e's not the greatest baird ever."
Marroc smiles.
"Ifen that's what ya wanted ta know, Oim a bit dissapointed."
"Ya moight want ta be less direct an more specific."
"Wot 'as 'e said that's got ya wonderin aboot 'im?"
"By the Gods, Marrroc! But a good point."
She gulps down a bit more ale to help her recover from her momentary panic. Then she looks at him uncertainly, not wanting to be so specific that she reveals her past shame. She gulps.
"Ah'm thinkin' he's a good and honest man, er, halfling. Marrroc, Ah need teh knoow rright now beforre..."
She pauses, wishing she could swallow that last word.
"...Ah just need teh knoow if he's a lyin', manipulatin'..."
Pausing again, she refrains from using most of the words she would now use to describe him. She takes a deep breath.
"...halflin'."
Her green eyes, turned somewhat watery by her emotional state, look into his, silently pleading for a gentle but honest answer.
"Oi'd wager he aint soimeone ya need ta worry aboot."
"When Oi knew 'im back in Brannons Run, 'e was just a wee boy."
"An loike most children, 'e did 'is share of lyin' an manipulatin."
Marroc stops and gently smiles.
"But never with the intent ta 'arm anyone."
"An whoile 'e certainly aint a choild no more, Oi don't think that 'as changed."
Marroc takes a sip of his drink.
"Not many people cin git through loife without a little bit o' stretchin the truth. Or forgettin it fer a bit."
"But it's the reasons be'ind it that or important."
"An Oim bettin Minto's reasons are usually good ones."
"Thank yeh, Marrroc. Ah rreally needed..."
The blushing grows a little deeper and she looks down into her ale.
"Well, just thanks."
She suddenly lifts the mug to her lips and drinks deeply of the ale, hoping to calm her nerves and make the darned blushing go away!
"It's a great bit o brewing."
Marroc takes a deep gulp of his.
"Oh, an just in case 'e wakes up whoile yer 'ere... Oi've got a visiter 'ere 'oo wears a mask."
"I don't think 'es any relation ta the goi yer lookin fer."
"Much taller fere one thing."
"An different race."
"Soomeone else who wearrs a mask? What is this? Masquerrade Toown?"
She sighs.
"Thanks ferr the heads' up. Ah'll make surre not teh trrack the wrrong one. Thoough Ah've not had much luck trrackin' the firrst one. Thoough Ah did see him at the celebrration overr at the LLI. Ah didn'a have a chance teh follow him when he left, though."
Suddenly a scent wafts beneath her nose from the kitchen.
"Yeh say Wealdy's in therre cookin'? Smells grreat, and Ah skipped brreakfast this morrnin'. Mmmm! Ah'll have a dish o' whateverr he's cookin' up in therre!"
"Oi must be spoiled boi moi new cook food."
Marroc laughs again and calls out towards the kitchen.
"Wealdy! Bring out a couple o' plates o'that slop yer burnin back there!"
Marroc winks at Brodda and takes another gulp of his ale.
"Wealdys a good enough cook, an not a bad bartender either. Oim not sure 'es ready fer running the inn yet though."
She looks at him curiously.
"Arre yeh lookin' teh rretirre, Marroc? Ah can't imagine what else yeh'd do."
"Ole 'Ermy asked me ta 'elp 'im out with a bit o'scoutin fer the Jackalls."
"Oi told 'im no, but .."
"'E did raise a few good points."
"Scoutin'? Arre the lorrds lookin' ferr soomethin'? Has therre been worrd of soomethin' headed this way?"
She didn't like the sound of that, something headed this way. The hairs at the back of her neck stand up, making her shiver a bit.
"An frum wot Oi cin gather the Lords want ta know wot there doin up there an woi they 'aven't coime down ta finish off the job."
Marroc's frown deepens.
"There aint much left 'ere ta stand in there way if wot Oi 'eard about them is true."
"They'rre still oout therre? But why? Well neverrmind. That's what the scooutin' is ferr."
Looking concerned, she asks the next obvious question.
"What have yeh hearrd?"
"If the expieranced men were woiped out so easily, these goiys will be like sloicin butter."
Marroc takes a deep swig of his drink."With a battle axe."
"Damn."
She's quiet for a moment as she finishes her ale.
"Grreen, eh? Well, they coouldn't be in betterr hands ferr trrainin' than Herrmy and, Ah prresume, Minto."
She finds herself struggling between an urge to be of help and the knowledge that she's still learning stealth.
.oO(How much help woould Ah be?)
She ponders as breakfast arrives, eating in companionable quiet with Marroc.
[be back later]
Brand pulls up a seat at the bar a stool or so away from a rather attractive dwarf woman that is speaking with Marroc.
Brand places a silver on the counter and waits for a moment.
Good morn...um.. afternoon, I think, Marroc, an ale when you can.
Marroc pours a mug from the standard stock for Brand and hands it over.
"Did ya think of anything ta 'elp out yer 'unt whoile ya were resting?"
"Grreetins."
She nods to his face.
"Nice mask. What's it ferr?"
Nope, I figure I'm never going to run into this thief... mainly because well... look at me, would you mug me? I'm thinkin this a'lftuck is gonna be a lost cause for me. I'll just hafta go lookin some place else for some work, bound to be some around here some place.
Brand turns to Brodda and nods.
Hello, the mask is for, well it, um... eases the eyes of the people who look at me.
.o0(Ooh that was nicely put... I should say that all the time.)
"Yeh can'na be that homely, can yeh, lad?"
She chuckles.
"Well, isn't therre a sayin' aboout an eye of a beholderr? Ah'm surre what's behind that mask isn't as bad as all that. Have yeh everr seen a beholderr."
She holds out her hand in greeting.
"Ah'm Brrodda. A pleasurre teh meetcha."
"Thanks Marrroc, ferr everrythin'."
She stands and nods to the man in the mask, then heads out the door.
Brand reaches out and shakes Brodda's hand
Brand, nice to meet you.
.o0(beholder...)
A beholder...I can't say that I have, and I think thats a good thing.
I think its worse then homely.
Brand waves farewell as Brodda leaves.
Billa comes over after a bit and he orders an ale and pays.
.o0(Hmm, I need to make connections here, network, then maye I can get more infromation on jobs and such.)
Billa returns with Brand's ale, she places it on the table then goes off to check something in the kitchen.
Brand sits there drinking his ale thinking.
Most the patrons of the inn give him a quick glance and then resume their drinking.
Grack's only response is to clutch his weapon tighter. Billa starts grumbling, and Marroc blows out a smoke ring before hobbling over to him.
"Wot are ya carrying on about me boyo? 'oo robbed ya? An where?"
.o0(What in the....!)
When brand hears the man claim to have been robbed he stands up and walks over so he can hear his story better.
.o0(This could be the 'alftuck I'm lookin for who robbed him!)
"He jumped my brother and me about three streets from here."
"Neillis... I think he's dead."
Marroc takes a deep puff on his pipe and then looks over at Brand before continuing towards the man.
"Oi don't think 'e was moi koind.. Are ya hurt boyo?"
Marroc pulls the mans hand away from his stomache and shakes his head.
"Thats a nasty little cut ya got there. Billa, tell Wealdy ta get a few rags wiill ya?"
"'es gunna be bleeding all over the floor."
Marroc leads the man to a chair and starts examining the bleeding gash in the mans belly.
Sir three streets in what direction?
Brand makes for the door as he waits for the man's reply.
"Please, check on my brother. I shouldn't have left him, but I couldn't carry him, and no one would answer my cries for help!"
brand reaches for his shield and sap as he opens the door and leaves.
to elsewhere
Marroc, I need some rags here fast! he is bleeding real bad, his throats been cut. Where can I put him?
Brand looks around for a place to put him down.
I dont know where a healer near here is, or if there is one so I brought him back here. If you can tell me where I can find a healer fast I will go and try to bring one back.
Marroc bends down to look at the body and shakes his head.
"It loiks loike its to late fet that though."
The man's brother breaks into tears. "He's dead!"
Marroc stands up and moves next to Brand..
"Oim afraid 'e is moi boyo. Oim afraid 'e is."
As the man kneels next to his brother and sobs Marroc puts a hand on Brands side.
"Not much ya coulda done about a wound loike that. "
(in dwarven) I almost had im! May he rot in the gutter like the filth he is!
Brand looks to the man kneeling beside the body.
I am sorry I could not save your brother, and that I was unable to catch the thing that did this to you.
Brand shakes his head and goes to find a place to sit. He pulls another rag out of his pack and tries to wipe the blood off his hands and armor.
.o0(I shouldn't have given chase, I should have just grabbed this man and brought him back.. he may still have been alive if I had...)
"You tried."
"No one else did."
"I won't forget that."
"Nor will my family."
Marroc nudges Brand. "Ya did wot ya could boyo. Don't let it eat ya up."
The crying man looks at his brother again and when Wealdy arrives with towels he takes one and starts to wipe his brothers face clean.
"His name is Chold."
"Chold Fenris."
And you sir, what is your name?
Wealdy begins to wipe up the blood on the floor, Marroc moves over and pulls him away, whispering. "It cin wait."
Brytt looks at Brand.
"Our father owns a general goods store in the market. We were delivering a package for him when we were attacked."
"Did you happen to see it?"
Brand looks the man in the eyes.
Brytt you have my word that I will catch who ever did this, he will be punished for his crimes.
Brand sits there just blankly staring at Chold's body.
.o0(I couldnt save Rurin, and now I couldnt save Chold, both because I wanted to catch the criminal more...)
He looks at his brothers body and then slumps down.
"I think getting my brother home is more important then the package."
"I don't think my father will be too upset at losing a...."
Brytt breaks into tears again.
".... I think he'd rather I get Chold home."
Once the healer Marroc sent for arrives and you get patched up a bit, I will see that you and your brother make it back home.
Brand goes to sit down at a table.
It isn't much longer until Grack returns with a half elf woman in a patchwork skirt.
Marroc greats her and then helps her as she tends to Brytt.
"YOim afraid we didna get ta ya in toime ta help one of them Natala."
"But the other appears ta 'ave a roight nasty gut wound."
Natala nods and begins to summon up some healing energies. The wound closes up after she places her hands on it.
"Don't exert yourself to much and it should heal up in a few days."
She examines Cholds body and frowns. "I'm sorry about your loss."
Brytt nods as Natala stands. Marroc moves to her side.
"Oi'll walk ya 'ome. Oi need ta toilk ta ya about gettin a few things fer the inn. We've 'ad an unusual amount o' poeople bleeding all over the place lately."
Marroc escorts the healer out of the inn, and Grack takes his usual place next to the office door.
Brytt stands and walks over to Brand., "I think it might be a good time to go now"
Alright, if you are ready. I shall carry your brother as you lead, if thats alright with you.
Brand moves over to Chold and bends down to pick him up. Then heads near the door and waits for Brytt.
to elsewhere
"Fenris Goods."
"My father will be there waiting for us to return."
Brytt breaks into tears again as he follows Brand out of the inn.
Oi'll take a water 'n whate'er ye got ta eat. Oh, and Oi'd loike ta talk ta Marroc, if'n ye would fetch 'im fer me, Billa.
Billa keeps complaining as she takes a few ales to a group of cloaked and hooded men at another table. "Don't even think about asking me to go ask the guards when they'll be patroling, what..."
A cloud of smoke pours out of the office as Marroc opens the door and strolls out. He quickily looks around the room and then spots Threfdil.
"Well if it aint me boyo Threfdil."
"Oi 'eard rumours o'a bear roamin the city. Oi should a figured that meant ya were back in town."
"Wot cin Oi get ya?"
As fer what ye cin do fer me...Oi was lookin' fer someone Oi could trust ta give me infermation without paddin' it wit' rumor. It's bin a while, 'n there's many stories roamin' the streets.
"Oi've 'eard quiote a lot o tales since ya... went outa commision."
""An several differnt versions o'most o'them ta boot."
"It oll depends on yer point o'view."
Marroc blows out a smoke ring before continueing.
"As fer tales o' woe an joy... there's been a lot of that the last few months."
"'Ermy Woodhome got 'imself married, an then widowed not long after. An 'ad ta do away with that evil brother o' is once an fer all. Oi think that fits both yer qualifications."
"Did ya 'ear about Natala the 'ealer diein'? She got better, so thats both sad an joyous."
"An there was the situation up in the moutains with the Jackals. Most o'them got wiped out boi a orc army an a few dragons. An that army is still out there plannin soimthin'. Not much joy in that story."
"But they are startin' ta rebuild with soime 'elp from the Silver Sword. I suppose that moight be seen boi soime as a good thing."
"It'll be awhoile before they get back ta a respectable force though."
"The man 'oo murdered ole Zandart the Brewer was foinally apprehended, an his receipes moight be seeing soime use again."
"An it seems a gang o'alftucks that 'ad been terrorisin the city suffered a serious loss in it's membership. There's still one left, but the other two aint around ta rob anyone anymore."
" An Oi foinally got moiself a decent cook. Ya can't get more joyous then that."
"Unfortanetly 'es got ideas o' 'eroing in 'is 'ead an took off adventurin."
"Goin back ta Wealdy's cookin aint soimthin ta get excitied about."
Marroc blows another smoke ring.
"Is that the toipe o'tale ya wanted ta 'ear?"
Ye cin be sure o' that. Wealdy always did leave a bit ta be desired. But yes, me boyo, that is the sorta tale Oi did be lookin' fer. Glad ta 'ear that Zanderat's killer be caught; 'is ale was always good.
He falls silent and picks at the food again, then gives Marroc a guilty glance.
'N before ye ask, aye, there do be somethin' on me mind. Oi'm jest not so sure Oi ken what it is.
"Can't say Oi 'aven't felt that way moiself a toime er two."
"An thars a lot ta be said fer not knowin wot yer doin... It works fer 'Ermy Wood'ome."
"Just get out thar an start doin soimethin. Yer a smart boyo. Ye'll figure out wot it is in no toime."
Thref drops a couple silver on the bar, nods, and walks out.
Brand wakes up and heads out of the Inn to go wander around the city a bit more.
to elsewere.
[orc]"Has Brodda been in here? Or a skinny little human?"[/orc]
Grack does not respond. Billa does though. "Why are you asking him? She's obviously not here. Or we'd have to tap a new keg."
"And good day to you too Billa."
"I guess I'll have to just wait for her then."
"So I think you'll be having to tap that keg anyhow."
"Is Marroc around? We're going to have a few questions for him."
Billa curses under her breath. "Big surprise."
"I swear, you stringstrummers can't even dress yourselves without asking Marroc for help."
Minto raises his eyebrows. "Excuse me? I would think if any one were to ask someone for fashion advice it would be Marroc asking me."
"He's almost as bad as Hermy at changing his clothes. And worse on looking fashionable."
The door to Marroc's office opens. Marroc steps out and blows a stream of smoke in Mintos face.
"Er maybe oll moi clothes just look the same."
"Not everyone wonts ta stand out loike a strutting peacock."
Marroc steps behind the bar and pours Minto an ale.
"Evening Marroc. I think Brodda and I are going to have a few questions for you once she gets here."
Marroc puts an empty glass on the bar.
"Oi'll 'ave a glass ready fer 'er then."
Brodda comes slamming through the inn's door...
.oO(Oops...)
...looking around from Minto or Tynk. She's rewarded by the sight of Minto sitting at the bar talking to Marroc. She rushes over to them, flushed with excitement.
"Minto!"
She stops at the bar and sees an ale sitting there, all alone, with no one to drink it.
.oO(Ale!) :D
"Minto... news..."
"News? Well that is good... news?"
"Umm, what did you learn?"
"I got the clerks at the palace to make it a priority search but I'm not sure how much good that will do?"
"What did you find out?"
Marroc puffs on his pipe and listens to the conversation.
"Ah trrust this is mine?" :D
She takes a long pull from it, then sets it down and takes a deep breath.
"Firrst, Misterr Oakwood is the sweetest felleh! He's verry kind and generrous. It was a pleasurre teh visit with'im."
She smiles.
"And full o' inferrmation. Herrmy Sr was sentenced to the salt mines to the west."
She takes another drink from her mug.
Minto cast a quick glance at Mqarroc and then focuses on Brodda.
"That's great. Now we know where to look."
"After we figure out how to clear him first."
Marroc pours himself a drink and puffs on his pipe. "Yer toilkin about 'Ermy's da aren't ya?"
"From wot Oi've gathered that aint gunna be an easy task."
"Old cases are 'ard ta solve. Especially when theres a confession."
Minto looks at Marroc. "You knew about this?"
.oO(She smiles, remembering the aid she gave to the Greycloak brothers.)
"Tynk went teh see Fatherr Camrrun, didn't he?"
She smiles a mischevious smile.
"It seems Acolyte Camrun was a frriend of Misterr Woodhome's, attempted to speak up on his behalf, but was ignorred."
Takes another drink.
"It doesn't sound loike Oi found out much more then Brodda did though."
Marroc smiles at Brodda and raises his glass.
Minto looks at her too. "Camrun eh? No wonder he's been so good at helping Hermy."
"Hopefully Tynk will find something out."
Minto looks down at his drink.
"Though one of us might need to go back for further information. Tynk's a bright enough boy, but he's not the best conversationalist."
"I think he's got to much going on in that brain of his."
Minto takes a drink, and then returns his gaze to Brodda.
"Did you find anything else out?"
"Like why none of Hermy's cousins ever tried to get in contact with him?"
Minto turns his gaze on to Marroc and raises his eyebrows.
"There is no way they couldn't have noticed the similarity in both Hermy's names."
She turns her attention to Minto.
"Well, now, Ah didn'a rreally ask why therre wasn't an efforrt put in teh contact Herrmy. Irris said Kirrby took him and left, none of'em everr knoowin' wherre to."
She frowns.
"It isn't possible that worrd of Herrmy the Herro neverr made it deep into the halfling quarrterr, do yeh?"
Her frown softens.
"When Ah mentioned that Herrmy didn'a knoow he had any family left, Liam was surrprrised. 'That explains why he never came to any of the parties,' is what he said. Maybe they didn'a expect Kirrby teh keep knowledge of'em to himself, thinkin' Herrmy knew aboout'em but didn't want teh visit?"
"It moight 'ave been that. It's not loike 'Ermy spent much toime in the 'alfling quarter."
Marroc takes a drink.
"Ore it moight a 'ad soimethin to do with Kirby/"
"Oi don't know about you, but Oi wouldna wanted ta make moiself a target fer 'im"
"An 'e wasn't exactly koind towards 'is family was 'e?"
Marroc puffs away.
"As Ah've hearrd it, Kirrby wasn't nice t'anybody."
She finishes her ale.
"What's keeping Tynk, Ah wonderr? We've got worrk teh do."
She looks at Marroc with amused suspicion.
"How much odd trrivia and secrrets do yeh have locked away in therre?"
She taps her temple with her forefinger.
"I imagine a conversation between him and Clarice would be... interesting."
"Ones got to much stuff in his head, and the other doesn't seem to have anything in hers."
"I don't think he'll be too much longer though. Father Camrun knows how to get to the heart of the matter."
"And besides, I can think of worse ways to wait for someone can't you?"
Minto raises his glass to his lips and puts on an amused smile of his own.
"Indeed, therre's not many betterr ways teh spend one's time than this!"
She looks at the two of them puzzled.
"Clarrice?"
"A charity case I think."
"She's a half wit. I suspect if the priests there had not taken pity on her, she'd be living in the streets."
"Or worse."
"I'm betting its another one of Father Camruns good deeds."
Marroc laughs.
"Minto me boyo, ya jump ta conclusions almost as much as ole 'Ermy."
"Clarice aint a 'alf-wit."
"Or a charity case."
"She's a hoighly respected mystic."
When Marroc compares Minto to Hermy, she giggles.
"Well, they say when two people spend enoough time with each otherr..."
She giggles again.
"So she's this mystic, but coomes acrross as brrainless. Interrestin'."
"And a bit odd."
"Its sort of like that halfling I ran into the other night."
"He was pretending to be an idiot too."
"Sometimes I just don't understand people."
"It's noothin' ferr a halflin' teh be odd, Minto Newberrry."
Her face becomes more sober.
"But ferr yoou teh think its odd is... odd. What was he up teh?"
"Good news!"
*He is smiling ear to ear, obviously proud of himself. Still, something seems different about him...though it could be the imagination.*
*He nods to the bartender, who he can't figure out why is watching them.*
*In a low voice that Tynk doesn't know Marroc can hear.*
"He o.k.?"
She waves him over.
"Marrroc? Aye, he's good. What have yeh got?"
She looks from Marroc (with a wink) to Minto (with a smile) and back to Tynk again.
"It was wonderfull! I met this beautiful receptionist, who tried to share her wisdom with me. She's pretty wise, if not a bit on with the prattling. Anyway, she ended up taking me to this place called the Labyrinth."
"But that's besides the point. I would have come sooner and not taken so long, but it was something Clarice thought needed to be done, and I didn't have a choice in the matter."
"The Labyrinth was...I don't quite know. Amazing, I guess."
*Stops all of a sudden in his ramble, recalls, and continues on more slowly.*
"I am sorry, I get so muddled when things go well."
"Meeting Father Camrun was quite an experience. He is very wise, and spoke a few words I'd do well to remember."
"Turns out not only did he know Hermy's father, but was good friends with him in his early years working with the church. He told me he walked the whole-way with Hermy to the Gates as he was brought to the mines."
"He even remember the exact date after twenty years, if that says somethin'."
"And having both of them speaking on our side will make convincing the authorites that they sent the wrong man to the mines a bit easier."
"Brodda found out a few things out about the investigation that sent him away as well."
"Mainly rumours, but theres usually some truth to rumours."
"Right, Marroc."
Marroc nods. "The trick is ta foind out wot part o' the rumour is true an wot part aint."
"Ya still got a lot a investigating ta do me boyos before ya cin take this ta court."
"Oi donna think just a few testimonies from well respected people will be enough."
"Not if they didna believe it the first toime."
.oO(I'll definately need to know him one day...)
"Well, rumors or not we'll take what we can get. Beggars can't be choosers, and we are certainly in want."
"But now we have much more than we first expected to so easily find. Question is what to do with it..."
"Father Camrun spoke of a few other things. I believe he will testify to Kirby having confessed to the crime commited. He did not say under what circumstances or when, but that will hold weight."
"Perhaps others that knew him will tesify as well, seeing as his reputation as a good man."
"But we lack evidence."
*He falls into silence, then a thought strikes him.*
"Kirby managed to take the inheritance..."
Minto takes a swallow of his ale and then smiles. [color=royalblue]"On the bright side, it probably wasn't much of an inheritance any ways."
"It sounds like Hermy Sr. was rich in the repect sort of way rather then monetary."
"I'm betting Kirby wasn't too pleased to find out he... took care... of Hermy for all those years for what he got."
"And anything bad happening to Kirby sounds good to me."[/color]
Minto takes another swallow and chuckles.
"We need teh git the date t'the palace so we kin find oout what they knew, what evidence they had, and what we need teh clearr poorr Herrmy's name."
.oO(That was dirrect and t'the point, lass...)
.oO(Aye, it was, but therre's a parrty at stake! The longerr we dally herre...)
.oO(*chuckle* Indeed.)
She grins, apparently for no particular reason that Marroc, Minto, or Tynk can think of.
Marroc blows out a puff of smoke and looks at Tynk. "Boyo, Tynk roight?"
"Ya mentioned that Kirby confessed. When?"
"Was it after 'is da was sent away? Or was it after 'e died?"
"Oim not sure a dead man's confession is wotholl that much in a court o'law."
"Though Brodda would be the one ta ask aboot that. Seeing 'ow she's done some work fer the lawyer's guild."
Marroc turns his gaze on to the dwarf. "Are ya still on good terms with them? 'avin a proffesional on yer soide can't hurt when it coimes ta the law."
"The lawyerr's guild! Ah didn'a even think of'em! Marrroc, yeh'rre a doll!"
She grins at the halfling behind the counter.
"Ah might hafta worrk anotherr case ferr'em, unless Herrmy Srrr has a frriend therre too. Ah'll go an' visit with Misterr Chandl. He had a habit of worrkin' late. Maybe he's still therre."
"Come to think of it, I didn't think to ask. Though I have seen it, the fact that dead people can speak doesn't occure to me so easily."
"But now I know a little better..."
*He mumbles, then continues on.*
"I can only guess that the testemony of Father Camrun having heard a dead man's confession will hold in court."
"Let's hope I am correct. If not then we will definately need the hard evidence."
"And we still haven't spoken to the x-captian. Even as unlikely as it would be that she could help, it's definately worth pursueing if Camrun's testimony wont hold."
*His stomache grumbles.*
"Dear me, I have forgotten to eat all day. Aside from the cookies that Irs gave me I haven't had a thing."
"We'll see about that."
"Marroc what do you know about the captain of the guard at the time Hermy's dad was sent to the mines."
Marroc smiles at the same time Minto does.
"Oi know she wasn't ighly thought of."
"A think a few of the real old timers in the guards still complain about 'er."
"An that she aint been seen fer a long whoile."
"Oi wouldna be surprised if she met up with someone she wrongfully jailed."
Marroc waves at Billa.
"Billa, bring the boyo soime stew."
Billa grumbles as she heads into the kitchen.
"...and Marroc, thanks a lot."
"Did you happen to catch what war she went off to with the mercenaries, and if she made it back Marroc?"
"An Oi don't think she came back."
"At least not that any one's admittin'"
"Oi wasn't around back then, Dareon 'Aldar an Oi were a bit occupied with adventurin' in those days."
Minto nods.
"If neither Marroc or Iris Toadfoot do not know, then she probably didn't come back."
Marroc looks at Minto and shakes his head. "We don't know everythin me boyo."
"Almost though."
*When Billa brings the soup Tynk begins to eat trying not to appear ravenous. The bowl is done rather shortly, and he orders a glass of juice.*
"Not bad."
"Well, sorry to hold things up. I guess our next move is to the Palace then. I can't think of anything we can do until we know more about the details of his arrest."
*Grabs his multi-wooded staff and stands up.*
"How much for the meal Marroc?"
*After leaving the tab he looks to Brodda and Minto.*
"Shall we?"
"Yer doing a favor fer the community."
"Wot koinda a citizen would Oi be if Oi didna do moi part ta 'elp ya."
Marroc looks down at the bar and shuffles a few glasses around.
Minto gets up from his stool.
"Thank you Marroc, both Hermys will appreciaye your help."
Minto gets up to follow Tynk.
"Brodda, would you mind checking with your lawyer friends while Tynk ad I go back to the palace?"
"We'll meet back up tomorrow morning at the Temple."
Brodda agrees and then Minto blows her a kiss and heads out the door.
"Come on Tynk, we need to get there before the lock the gates up."
*Tynk heads out with Minto with a nod to Brodda, slowing a little to match his pace but forcing him to walk a little fast to keep up.*
"I really think we have a chance. I can't fathom him not being set free, it's just too inconcievable."
To Palace
Originally posted by Minto Newberry , Bard Extroidinaire
"Brodda, would you mind checking with your lawyer friends while Tynk ad I go back to the palace?"
"We'll meet back up tomorrow morning at the Temple."
Brodda agrees and then Minto blows her a kiss and heads out the door.
Brodda smiles warmly at Minto.
"Of courrse, darrrlin'. Ah'll see yeh both in the morrnin'."
She watches them until the door closes behind them, then turns to Marroc.
"Thanks ferr all the help, Marrroc. Ah prromise not teh tell anyone, but Ah think yeh'rre a sweethearrt."
With a smile she gives him a wink, then heads for the door.
[to Elsewhere]
Billa, can I get an ale for myself and what ever my friend here would like to drink, I'll also need a spot in the common room. Brand hands Billa the correct coinage for the drins and his stay in the common room.
Brand and Joseph enjoy thier drinks then head off to bed.
* They stay at Nobodys for the next three days, going out to the market to buy supplies for an upcoming trip. (cold weather out fit and rations for 10 days for Brand)
Joseph takes these three days as an opportunity to perform to accuire more funding for his trip.Joseph recieves 45sp in total for his performances.
Brand's total bill at the Inn totals 12sp 3cp (3 days common room, breakfast and lunch and an ale per meal per day) along with the 13gp for supplies for the trip(10gp of that was covered by Joseph)
Joseph's tab atthe Inn is the same.
* catching up
So, now what do we do? He asks the bard.
"No clue... I think today I shall go perform by the palace... maybe even earn a temporary commission there. What about you?"
Actually I have no idea, I could go check the guard chapter house again see if any new work is available.
Brand thinks for a minute as he drinks from his mug.
.o0(what was that other place Marroc told me about?)
Say, do you know anything about the Silver Sword Adventure Guild? Marroc mentioned it as a place to look for work, but said something about probably not meeting requirements so I never got around to checking it out myself.
Bardic Knowledge Mod +5. Total Roll 17 (GM rolled it)
"Ahh yes... the Silver Sword Adventuring Guild... it is located over in the warehouse district, and its members wear a silver pin to indentify themselves," Joseph said.
Hmm, I think I may just take a stroll, see where my feet take me around town and all.
"That is a fine idea, you do that, I'm going to head over to the palace now."
With that, the bard strode out of the inn.
[to Elsewhere, by the Palace]
.oO(That's why Ah like it betterr herre in the evenin's. Moorre people, moorre converrsations teh listen to.) :D
She removes her cloak and hangs it over the back of her chair, then goes up to the bar.
"Moorrnin'. Whateverr yeh've got cookin' up ferr brreakfast woould be wonderrful. And an ale."
She leaves the appropriate coinage on the table, plus tip, smiles, and returns to her table, working on the lyrics to a song.
She wanders off to berate another customer.
As the gnome woman crosses the room, Brodda calls after her, "Thank yeh, Billa! Have a good morrnin!"
She stirs her porridge to help it cool.
.oO(What do we knoow so farr? We knoow that Kirrby killed an acolyte of Thalos in what appearred teh be a botched rroberry. We knoow that Misterr Woodhome confessed teh the murrderr when Kirrby was bein' sought ferr it. Didn'a Misterr Oakwood say soomethin' aboout Kirrby bein' hirred by soomeone? Therre's soomethin' teh look into. Fatherr Camrrun spoke in Misterr Woodhome's behalf, but it did no good. Misterr Woodhome was sentenced teh worrkin' in the salt mines. At some point laterr, Kirrby confessed teh the killin', but noothin's been done.)
She scoops up a bit of porridge and blows gently on it.
.oO(If soomeone hirred Kirrby, we need teh find oout. And why was Kerris so deterrmined teh convict Misterr Woodhome and not considerr otherr evidence? And what otherr evidence was therre? When did Kirrby confess, and teh whom?)
Her thoughts return to the possibility of someone hiring Kirby, whether for a robbery or a murder, which in turn lead her thoughts to Mercer. She growls softly.
He returns to the bar are and finds a table off to the side and tends to his weapons and manacles for most of the day while thinking about the mugger and the up coming trip.
.o0(I can't believe that happened at the bath house. Thats just embarassing. Now how am I going to pay Joseph back for helpin pay for my gear? Think Brand, think)
.o0(Hmm, argh, stupid manacle!)
Brand glares at his manacle as he tries to unjam it.
noon time: Brand steps out, but returns about 30 minutes later, and spends the rest of the time at a table in the tavern with an ale, fiddling with his manacles and weapons again.
.o0(hmm how does one maintain a sap?)
Joseph walked in and removed his hat, he looked around for Brand. Quickly spotting him, he strode over to the bounty hunter.
"Hey Brand, I think I'm going to go back to the Last Lich Inn, so if you need me, I'll be there."
Huh? Oh ok, well I'll be here if ya need ta find me for anything as well.
Brand goes back to fiddling with his gear.
[to Last Lich Inn]
"Good night." Brand says over his shoulder and waves to Billa. He hears her grumbling soemthing as he walks into the common room.
.oO(Ooh, how cute they arre, all boouncy and hoppin' arroound!)
Smiling, she follows them around, hopping to and fro, moving from the meadow to a sparse forest.
As she hops, she notices that her load is lighter than normal, and upon inspection, she notices that her axe is light as a feather. In fact, it is a feather! A large feather!
.oO(Oh! That's the featherr Ah boought ferr Minto!)
At the thought of Minto, the sunny sky becomes slightly overcast, and the hippity bunnies begin hopping in different directions.
"Wait! Oh, wee bunnies..."
She looks on in consternation as they scatter when one catches her attention. Rather than scattering with the others, it sprouts wings, its ears receding, fur gathering, climbing up its back to its scalp, then growing, becoming a long mass of lovely blond hair.
She gazes in wonder at the fairy that was a bunny.
"Who are you?" she asks.
"A messenger..."
Brodda frowns as it speaks, for the fairy sounds a terrible lot like Marroc.
"...you're supposed to be at the Temple."
Brodda's head snaps upward, her eyes wide and looking around the room, her chest heaving.
.oO(A drream... it was a drream...)
She catches her breath and ponders the fairy for a moment.
Then she gasps.
"The Temple! Ah'm supposed teh be at the Temple!"
Quickly, she gathers up her things and runs out the door.
.o0(I really shouldnt sleep all day...)
.o0(Hmm... I need to make some coin, maybe I can talk to Joseph he may have some ideas.)
Brand heads out of Nobody's.
To last lich
Brand walks into Nobodys and heads over to the bar. He takes a silver from his money pouch and slides it to Billa.
G'night. Brand mutters as he heads off to the common room.
Brand eventually gets to sleep. He wakes up the next morning a bit sore.
.o0(ugh... must have slept wrong.)
Brand goes down stairs and right out the door.
to elsewhere
"Trying to ditch me, eh?" Sensandela scolds them good-naturedly as they enter the inn. "And here I thought you boys were nice, 'saving the city from the evil baker' and all!"
She perches daintily on the edge of a seat. On a whim, she crosses her legs.
"Well, it just goes to show you, Pearly, you can't trust even the heroes."
"Billa, Can I get four ales?"
Lucian plops himself into a chair and sighs.
Three.
I don't drink while I'm hunting.
"I'll drink enough for the two of us, don't you worry. Kekeke!"
She studies Luke's face, carefully chewing on her lip.
.oO(He doesn't look... too evil. Or maybe he's repenting for ever having entertained thoughts of heartless slaughter, even better!)
"What's up, Luke? Are you okay?"
"I'm fine... Just a little tired."
Lucian leans his head onto his crossed arms on the table.
"If you wouldn't mind, could you tell me a little more about yourself? All I know is you wont stand for injustice and you are very charming."
I hate to break things up...
BUT
Perhaps we should focus on our task at hand before the ale arrives.
Kai takes his seat and and scans the inn. As he pulls his hood down, Billa turns towards the table as Lucian shouts his orders. She narrows her eyes at Kai once she recognizes him. Their silence makes things uncomfortable. After a few moments, she turns away to get the orders of ales but not without her usual grumbling .
*looks at Tensek*
No...I would also like to know. Kai says as he narrows his eyes. I'm not a trusting person.
The group get the feeling that Pearl is not the only person he doesn't trust.
*his cold eyes shift onto Pearl*
Well...
.oO(Argh, it be mutiny!)
When "Fred" agrees as well, she turns narrowed eyes on him. The seriousness of the moment, combined with the new, awkward silence, convinces her to make a similarly gruesome face at the masked elf.
She sits back and grins at him, subtly uncrossing her legs.
"Boy, but I do hate that question in any situation. I never know what to say. Besides, I hate talking about myself," she says as she picks at an imagined spot on her dress.
"No," she says to Luke, "I guess I won't stand for injustice. That's not to say I don't believe in a little payback, but I try not to hurt anyone if I can avoid it. Maybe embarrass them a little or swipe a little monetary repayment, or if violence is necessary for payback, nothing more than some scrapes and bruises -- and a whole lotta whoop-ass.
"Ahem, pardon my language.
"As for 'Fred,' I suppose I'm glad you don't trust me. It shows you're not stupid.
"Neither am I," she says cheerily, "(e)and I don't trust you either, pretty boy(/e)."
She turns to the others.
"Does that satisfy your question?
"Now it's your turn. You two have been nice to me. Which is odd, considering the way most men, whether human or elfin, react to me.
"I mean... look at me," she murmurs dismayed. After a couple of seconds, she shakes her head and returns a wary, narrowed gaze on the three.
"So what do you want from me? Spill it."
oO. (Did she just call me pretty boy?! Ugh...)
"Why am I being nice to you? You think looks are that important?"
Lucian shakes his head sadly. "Looks and race are the least of my concerns when dealing with others. Not all elves are good and not all dwarves honest. You cannot trust the normal for it isn't usually true."
Lucian rubs his ears wristfully. "I'm not exactly of 'pure' stock myself, if you catch my drift."
Sensandela laughs.
"If I thought looks were that important, I'd likely have... gone away a looong time ago.
"It would've made things a whole lot easier for me.
"Anyway," she says, smiling kindly at Luke, "most elfin males I meet are so hoighty-toighty, ew-the-half-orc-stinks. No wonder you're a nice boy. Thanks."
.oO(Although I still can't get over the feeling that y'all are hiding something from me. 'Specially that masked fella. Oh, dear. Don't let me start to like you two while the entire time you lie to me like I'm some sort of stupid airheaded twit!)
Than everything should be clear...you don't trust us...these two don't trust me...and I don't trust anyone.
Billa finally returns with the group's drinks. She complains as she roughly places the ale on the table. When her eyes make contact with Kai, another short and uncomfortable silence stirs. Billa scowls as she turns away and leaves the table.
We will forget about the inquiry for now. Let us take Tensek's advice and look at the problem at hand.
"Or should we concern ourselves with when to pay the visit? Perhaps if we wait inside for him tomorrow? Unless we can figure out which door he used ourselves, that seems the easiest way, unless we had a way to just go door to door and could ask where he lived?"
"And good afternoon to you as well, Mister Grack!" says Gerug cheerfully.
"I'm just here looking for a man named--"
Grack's muscles flex as he advances toward the dwarf.
"No need for that. He's not in any trouble."
.oO(I hope.)
"This gentleman here--"
The guardsman waves a hand toward Joseph.
"--is an acquaintance of his. He's just come to gather a few items Mister Ravenkin is holding onto for him. No arrests involved." :D
.oO(Oh, I certainly hope not. Got to remember at least a dozen guards if I'm going to need anyone from this place forcefully. Then again, maybe I should just wait outside for any suspects we need to apprehend. I'm sure Mister Brambelburr would prefer the little bit of consideration.)
"Would you know where I could find Mister Ravenkin?"
Ominous merely glare from a silent face displaying too many teeth. Gerug slowly -- very carefully -- turns to look around the inn's common room.
"Would anyone have seen Mister Ravenkin recently?" he asks.
"Really, it's just a matter of the man's lute and a sword. He plays a decent enough tune, and we could surely use a few songs now and then by those with the talent to play them? Besides, I'm sure none of you would want to be left defenseless on the cold, hard streets any longer than was necessary?" :D
.oO(That's right -- give them all ideas about how minstrel boy here is defenseless right now... good one. Okay, let's see it through.)
"Listen," Gerug says to Grack, approaching slowly in a friendly fashion -- and then stepping back carefully, with his hands raised in a half-shrug when the half-orc starts to loom.
"Okay. Okay, but it's just that this poor fellow has had a very rough time today. He could use a hand-- SORRY!"
He winces as he shouts the last apologetically to Joseph, then turns back to Grack, looking sheepish.
"It's just been a bad day, and he could use some assistance. He's not feeling quite right, and I'd rather make sure that there weren't any misunderstandings caused by that. I thought I could offer my assistance--
"Not that you'd need any help if things became violent," he adds hastily as Grack raises an eyebrow, and then, as he sees nostrils flare in response to his last comment, he rushes in with, "nor is there any reason to expect violence over this, no! No, it's just a simple transaction, but our friend here was feeling a bit disoriented today. Just here to help him out."
.oO(Oh, dear. That seems to have attracted attention. It looks like I'm here until Mister Ravenkin arrives now. How to calm the wolves down? Ah...)
The dwarf walks up to Wealdy at the bar, then turns to Joseph.
"I know ye don't have any money right now..." he says, sighly inwardly as he notices a few interested parties suddenly become a bit less interested, "...but let's get you a meal while we wait."
He lays a few coins on the bar, looks the bard over again, and then adds a few more.
"Ye could probably do with another drink or two while ye're at it. Don't worry about the cost; I have it covered. We'll just sit and wait a bit for your friend to show. What will you have?"
Wealdy speaks to Gerug, but the dwarf replies, "No, nothing for me at the moment; I'm on-- no, on second thought, I'll have some water."
Seeing the look Wealdy gives him, Gerug sighs and draws another coin, saying, "Yes, at the standard price..."
Originally posted by Shatteredtower
"How to find the baker's rooms, you mean?" asks Lucian.
"Or should we concern ourselves with when to pay the visit? Perhaps if we wait inside for him tomorrow? Unless we can figure out which door he used ourselves, that seems the easiest way, unless we had a way to just go door to door and could ask where he lived?"
Could we not stalk him into the building? Or perhaps rent a room within the building?
He's about as descreet as an apocalypse... I better learn how to fight with my right hand...
...
"Thank you for the meal Lieutenant," Joseph said politely.
[Dwarven]"I appreciate what you are trying to do for me... but it really isn't necessary to annouce my condition to the world,"[/Dwarven] the one-armed man whispered.
He dug into the food.
[Dwarven]"And it was more than just my mandolin and sword... there was also a whip and my money pouches. Not to mention all the coin in those pouches... none of it stolen..."[/Dwarven]
Joseph scanned the room between mouthfuls.
[Dwarven]"Just so you know... He's over there in the corner,"[/Dwarven] the bard nodded towards the big man in the green coat, face patch, and oversized sword.
[18:24:47] Ianj28: well soon as i find a decent time to post at nobody's ill catch up for his missed day... he should be some where resting in the common room when you get there.
Joseph went back to the food.
"Wealdy, either this food is wonderful, or I haven't eaten anything in two days," he paused and chuckled, "please give my compliments to the cook later. Just amazing... Why, I'ld bet my left hand that this meal is the best thing to happen to me in two days..."
"No need to worry about that. I'm told it itches for awhile, even the part that isn't there, but..."
The dwarf coughs. He listens to Joseph speak for a bit longer, before he suddenly rises, standing face to face with the sitting bard.
"I'll thank ye not to speak that tongue to me. I suspect you'll find that Grack feels the same way."
Grack's eyes flicker across the pair as his name is said, but he otherwise gives no reaction.
"Now you finish up, and we'll go say hello to the fellow over there."
"Thanks for the tip..."
Joseph finished the meal and thanked Wealdy again.
"I'm going to do ye one favour," he says, "free of charge. See our friend against the wall?"
It is apparent that he means Grack.
"If he thinks ye're trying to send secret messages to a member of the guard by talking in a foreign language, he's apt to rip yer head off and bring yer tongue to someone who can read what ye just said. If ye persist in being stupid enough to keep trying to prove how smart y'are, ye're on yer own."
.oO(I guess I'll need to find the boy's mother next, because he obviously doesn't know the first thing about taking care of himself. A shame that a decent education would only inflate his stupidity...)
PRESENT TIME
Brand is seated in the corner of the bar area away from the dwarf and a man wearinf a familiar cape, tending to his manacles.
He notices mention of his name but doesn't look up from what he is doing.
Joseph fought the urge to roll his eyes.
"Could you give me a minute to try to get my things back from him before you come over? I don't want him to think I'm strong arming him." The bard chuckled.
The young man walked over to Brand.
"Hello Brand. How are things?"
Brand's face takes on a look of surprise when he sees its Joseph standing there.
Out already? That was fast...
Brand realises he is tending the pair of manacles he had used on Joseph and puts them away quickly on his belt.
You here for your stuff?
"Yes, I'm here for my belongings. All of my belongings."
He keeps an eye on the interaction, however, knowing that there is little he can do in the longterm, should things go badly tomorrow.
.oO(Eh... so long as there is a tomorrow, today is a success. I just wish it had been a greater one.)
Originally posted by Tensek Vicar
Could we not stalk him into the building? Or perhaps rent a room within the building?
"Rent would probably cost us more than we'd be making from this, I think. We could try sneaking in after him, but he might recognize all of us. If we're waiting inside for him, at least it's too late for him to do anything about that."
Lucian thinks about it a bit more.
"We could try waiting in the halls, though, if we've got a way in but no way to figure out exactly where he went. That way, maybe we could hope to see him come out?"
"What do you mean, 'make from this'? What are we 'making from this,' if the baker is such a bad guy? Do heroes ordinarily expect payment to put a bad person out of commission?" she says with some note of disappointment in her soft voice.
"And if the baker is so... horrible... wouldn't it be better for us to notify the city guard?"
"And we'd rather not bother the guard. They... send people to the mines or do other dreadful things to them. We just want to make sure that the baker never does bad things again, like... steal other people's money or try to get away without... paying for... things..."
Lucian tries to smile brightly at Sensandela.
"We're not interested in hurting anyone, but he still needs to know that he can't get away with this."
Hello. Could I get some ale, please?
Wealdy nods.
Sure thing, mister.
Wealdy goes to get a glass of ale and puts it right in front of Tyros.
Enjoy.
Ah, thank you.
Tyros pays Wealdy and takes his ale to a table next to the fire. He eyes the dwarf drinking water and remembers the awfull taste he got when he tried to do so in the first day in the City. He then looks at the two man talking in a corner, one of them seeming a bit hurt.
.oO(They don't seem too friendly...)
Tyros takes a sip at his ale, swallows it and makes an ugly face at the taste of the drink. He takes his tongue out and sighs.
.oO(
) Waiting in the halls would still cause some bit of suspicion...
He leans forward with his both elbows resting on the table. The drumming of his fingers on his mask makes a soft consecutive *ding* sound from under the scarf.
Maybe we could have one of you deliver something like flowers to his house while he's away...I'm sure there's someone in the building that can direct us to the right room.
Originally posted by Tyros Elessar
Tyros pays Wealdy and takes his ale to a table next to the fire. He eyes the dwarf drinking water and remembers the awfull taste he got when he tried to do so in the first day in the City. He then looks at the two man talking in a corner, one of them seeming a bit hurt.
.oO(They don't seem too friendly...)
Tyros takes a sip at his ale, swallows it and makes an ugly face at the taste of the drink. He takes his tongue out and sighs.
.oO(
Grack scowls, maybe at the Tyros, or it could just be a continuation of the scowl at the dwarf. It doesn't matter who it is aimed at, its still ugly.
The door to the office opens, and Marroc hobbles out. He gives Gerug a quick frown and then meanders towards Tyros table.
"Foinally learned 'ow ta pay fer things did ya? Oi don't want ta see a repeat o' the last toime ya were in 'ere."
"That dwarf at the bar is a member o' the city guard. Ya troi stealin soimeones ale in 'ere this toime, 'e'll probably take ya away an lock ya up."
"Which would be a lot better fer ya then wot me boyo Grack would do ta ya."
Marroc smiles and then sits down.
"Now hat we got that cleared up... Moi names Marroc. Oi own this 'ere doive."
"Yer new ta this city aren'tcha? And new ta cities in general?"
Well, sir. I am sorry for what happened last time here and I did come here to say that I was sorry for it. It'd be a shame to be in the same city as this Inn and not be friendly with its owner. I am Tyros and I doubt I'll try to steal anything again. Well, yes... I'm new to cities. Lived all my life in the woods, exploring new grounds, until I came across this city and was directed to this place. And are you new to cities?
"Spent most o' moi loife in either this one or Brannon's Run. Even back in moi adventurin days we spent a lot o'toime in various villages enjoyin' the foiner things that loot cin bring."
"Oim lucky Oi saved enough ta afford this place."
Marroc laughs again. And then lights up his pipe.
"If ya don't moind me askin, just whoi did ya give up livin in the wilderness? Oi know a few people 'oo prefer not 'avin ta deal with all the people ya foind in cityloife."
"Oi don't think Oi would 'andle not being away from a reliable ale source moiself, but Oi've never 'ad ta live in the wilderness fer more then a few months at a toime."
"Oi might be able ta surprise moiself."
Marroc laughs again as he watches Tyros for a reaction.
I guess that the worst thing about the forest life is that it's too lonely out there. Now, I didn't know what that feeling was because I never met anyone except for my father, but once I found that there were other people in this world, I became curious. And now it would be hard to pass an afternoon without talking to Jereld or Kereld. And I don't think the ale is such a strong reason not to leave town.
Tyros frawns a bit when he mentions the ale and frowns a bit more when he takes a sip at his ale.
"Relativly speaking o'course. Give yer self a few years of adventurin or city loife an ya moight change yer mind."
Marroc takes a puff on his pipe.
"So ye came ta the city ta escape lonliness did ya?"
"'ow's that workin' out fer ya?"
"Oi know a lot o' people that cin be lonely in a room full o'friends, an a few that feel overcrowded in a room boi themselves."
That last bit of information gave a notch in my head... But I guess it's going well. I already met a few people but their either out of town or suddenly missing right now, so I was hoping to find someone to talk to in here. I found you! :D Originally posted by JosephKell
"You could say, I had a hand out of the jail cell," Joseph said sternly.
"Yes, I'm here for my belongings. All of my belongings."
Both Coin purses are in my pack, on the top. Your sword, whip and mandolin should be right next to my pack. I left it all in the common room right hand corner in the back. Brand said waving his hand in the direction of the gear.
Don't worry I haven't spent any of your money. He says giving the bard a glance.
Next time you plan to rob some one do yourself a favor and don't bring me along with you. He says as he gets up and heads over to the bar.
"I got what I came here for. I owe you for the meal..." the bard said as he dug out the silver to repay Gerug.
No sure which meal it was, assume Joseph gives as much silver as the cost of the meal: Breakfast (1 sp), Lunch (2 sp), Dinner (4 sp).
That would be better for us...
The drumming of his fingers on his mask stop as he leans back and places a palm on his long sword.
So...who wants to be the flower boy...or girl.
.oO(And I guess I'll get to see who really is the bad guy here.
Wouldn't I like to believe you boys, after all!)Originally posted by Tyros Elessar
"That ya 'ave me boyo. That ya 'ave."
"Oim not sure 'ow much fun Oi'll be fer ya though. Oi don't get out as much as a few people would loike me ta. Yer pretty much loikin at wot Oi do."
"An Oi don't think 'angin around an inn all day smokin a pipe is wot yer lookin' fer in loife is it?"
Marroc blows out a smoke ring and watches Tyros.
Tyros looks around himself, at the Inn overall.
"Because its moine."
Marroc takes another puff and slowly exhales.
"Oi don't imagine ya 'ad much chance to aquire many things out in the wilderness did ya? There's a feelin ya get from ownin' somethin,. Especially somethin' ya bought with yer sweat an yer blood."
There's also another matter. From what I understand, he has a wife, and she is not to be...harmed or notified about her husbands deeds...
*looks at Lucian*
I prefer Luke to do it, but...you would be more beliveable.
Do these count? A wolf tried to catch my prey so I had to take it down. I tood advantage of himbeing dead to take some pelt out of him and make these. Thei're warm and fuzzy.
But, what about that man standing in the front door? He doesn't seem very friendly. Don't people feel scared to come in here?
"Oi'd rather not have anyone in 'ere at all, then 'ave them causing trouble when they or in 'ere."
Marroc glances at Grack and smiles. Grack does not respond.
"Grack's good at keepin' things peaceful in 'ere."
"e's a natural at it. It's 'is calling in loife."
"You wouldn't 'appen ta be a natural at anythin' would ya be?"
Well... I'm a natural elf. An elf that can hunt well. Well enough for me, at least, for my own needs. And I am natural at eating... Mrs Weatherby keeps telling me that I should use some steel tools to eat at the table with her but... i just don't know why I should do that if I can use my hands.Tyros shows his hands, which are a bit dirty with dirt.
"Soime people don't want ta eat soimethin' that's been touched boi someone elses hands. An Oi don't always blame them."
"Theres a few people 'oose 'ands 'ave touched a few things Oi don't want to 'ave anythin ta do with."
Marroc lets his laughing roll to a stop, and then he smiles.
"An if Mrs. Weatherbys providin' yer food, ya should probably 'umor 'er. Ya never wanna get on a cooks bad side. Unless yer fond o'outhouses."
Marroc takes a puff on his pipe before changing subjects.
"Are ya foindin the 'untin' around 'ere challenging enough fer ya?"
"Oi'd think an elf that cin take down a wolf would foind rabbits a bit on the easy soide, an not much of a challenge."
The hunting isn't bad, I already caught two boars and lots of bunnies. You'd think they're easy to catch but they run like a deer and they are harder to catch because they are small. I don't usually take down wolves, only when they are trying to kill me. They don't taste very well. And it is hard to catch rabits if you're hunting from the top of a tree. Sometimes I miss, sometimes I don't. Have you ever been hunting?
What kind of two legged monsters? Didn't they have two arms, too? "An they're very common 'ere in the city. Ya don't often go a day without seeing their trails."
I've never seen a trail of a two legged monster. Not that I can remember. Anyway, how can they roam free in the city?Quoted because it got lost in some other posts
Joseph retrieves his possessions from Brand's pack and walks over to Gerug.
"I got what I came here for. I owe you for the meal..." the bard said as he dug out the silver to repay Gerug.
No sure which meal it was, assume Joseph gives as much silver as the cost of the meal: Breakfast (1 sp), Lunch (2 sp), Dinner (4 sp).
Joseph nodded as the dwarf refused to be repaid for the meal.
"Well, I'll see you around Lieutenant. Thanks for the meal," the bard said.
Joseph headed out of the inn.
[to Elsewhere]
"Some of them look loike 'umans, soime loik loike elves."
"An soime look loke moi kind."
"An not to many people are willin ta troi an foind them."
"The guards catch a few, but theres a lot more o' these monsters then there are guards."
"An a few 'eroes catch them too."
"An then theres the bounty 'unters..."
Marroc nods his head towards where Brand and Joseph are talking.
"Ya see that man in the mask o're there."
"'E's troin ta catch one of these monsters. A nasty little 'alfling. But it keeps gettin away frum 'im."
Why doesn't he call Jerel and Kereld for help? They are very good guards. They don't leave the gate for any reason. Halfling's are the little people, right? I know of little people called dwarves but I know that Hermy isn't a dwarf.
Right now i don't know many different races. I know humans, elfs, dwarves, halflings like you said and I wish I didn't, but I know orcs. I might go on an adventure with hermy someday.
.oO(Lucian you and I are going to have to have a talk soon...)
"But there's more of them then 'e, an yer guard friends cin ever 'ope ta stop completely."
"All ya cin do is troi ta stop the ones ya cin when ya cin."
"An roight now, the one that that man over there is loikin fer is one that cin be stopped."
"But 'e moight need soime help."
"e's loikin fer a 'alftuck. They're 'alflins loike me an 'Ermy, but a lot nastier."[/color]
Tyros quickly glances at the couple of men talking.
"Oim sure 'e could use soime 'elp. Us 'alflins aren't as easy ta catch as we look. Even 'alftucks."
"Its loike ya mentioned earlier. It's loike trioin ta hunt rabbits from the tree tops."
"The one 'es huntin knows every burrow around, an the fastest ways ta get to them."
"An unlike a rabbit, this onbe carries a very sharp knoife."
"'e don't coime in 'ere. 'e's out on the streets soimewhere robbin people o' there 'ard earned money or worse."
"'e killed a man a week or so ago, moi friend over there troid ta stop 'im but was too late."[/color]
"The 'alftuck killed the man, an Brand, the masked man, troid ta stop im."
"Oi don't think either one of them would be too interested in 'untin rabbits though."
"Not enough money in it."
Marroc blows out a cloud of smoke.
"I think 'avin ya 'elp 'unt the 'alftuck would be a stress relief fer Brand, an a make the 'alftucks loife a lot more stressed."
Originally posted by Halandar
Halandar steps in and stoops off to a corner hoping to listen in on any news of or from Joseph.
Grack sniffs the air and his ugly face gets uglier as he crinkles his nose.
He stares at Halandar and tries to breath through his nose.
The baker met Pearl already would there not be a risk of him becoming suspicious?
[i]Tyros lifts his body from the chair and starts heading to the corner where Brand is. He takes a good look at his overall silhouette and pulls a chair in order to stay at eye level with Brand.
Hello.
Excuse me for intruding myself in your affairs but I was talking to Marroc and he told me you were having problems catching an Halfling. I was wondering if I could be of any help to you. It could be easier to catch one of them rabbits with two hunters. Whats that? Rabbits? I'm not hunting rab...oh never mind, I got ya. He says as he leans back in his chair a bit.
Sure I could use a hand. So far I've had no luck at all.
Oh, my name is Brand Ravenkin, and yours is? Brand says as he extends his right hand across to the new comer.
The delivery will have to be done while he's at the shop.
Well that would make it easier to find out where his wife would be but...
Why not confront him in the store instead and be done with the mess in it's entirety. Or kidnap him while he's walkign home? And force him totake you to his place?
We were not asked to hurt the man...or kidnap him. We were asked to warn him.
*clenches his jaw from behind the mask*
Wasting such deeds on a pitiful man like him is a waste...no matter, I have something in store that should work to the same effect, if not better.
Leaning back on the chair, he lifts his gaze from Pearl up to the ceiling as he fingers his sword hilt.
Well Luke, what do you say...
Tyros looks as if intrigued when Brand extends his hand to him. He had never shaked hands with someone before.
.oO(
What's this? He is showing me his hand. What does that mean? I better play along...)Tyros smiles awkwardly and extends his own hand, not touching in Brand's hand but trying hard to imitate his gesture. He keeps his hand extended without making any motion to shake Brand's own hand.
I am Tyros Elessar. Well met. So, do you have any idea where the rabit is hiding?
I take it you don't shake hands where you're from? Brand says to the man as he takes his hand back and fiddles with his manacles a bit more.
I have an idea of where he may be hiding, but I can't be seen there or else there may be trouble. Brand said rolling his eyes.
A few blocks south of here there is an alley. In this alley there is a fence, on the other side of this fence there is a halfling bathouse. I suspect he may hide out in there. There are however two other doors in that same area, and he may well hide out bhind one of those. Brand says gesturing south then drawing a psuedo map on the table with his finger.
From where I come from, you don't usually see anyone else.
Tyros listens as Brand describes his hint on where the halfling might be hiding and ponders for an instant.
Well, then I doubt any of those halflings can know me so therefore I could go in searching for the rabit without arrising suspicion. Then I would probably tell you where the halftuck is. What do you think?
That sounds like a good idea.
Don't worry I'll wait in the alley by the fence ready to help if you need me to.
A bath house is a place a people go to so they can bathe and be clean, it costs a little money, usually a few silver.
Oh one more thing, while you are overthere, look around for anyway something the size of a halfling could get out of there, other then through the doors or fence.
Brand gathers his manacles and puts them on his belt and puts his rags inhis pocket.
When do you want to go? I'll be ready soon as I go get my stuff from the common room.
"It could work, though we need to avoid upsetting the neighbours or the wife. And are we sure she'll be able to get the message across to the baker properly?"
Whoever delivers the flowers just needs to locate the room, no more...no less.
He looks up at Kai, surpressing a small shudder.
"This time, of course. Still, it would be best if Pearl went in alone to ask for the specific address. Less intimidating to see just a flower girl, do we agree on that?"
Tyros follows Brand if he goes to the common room to get his stuff and if he goes outside.
Then it's agreed. Once the baker leaves tomarrow morning for his shop, you will do your part...and I will do mine.
Alright, lets get started now. he says as he heads to the common room and gathers his gear.
He then heads outside with Tyros following close behind.
.oO(Maybe he plans to sing to her! Or recite poetry!
Normally, that would be kind of romantic, if he was wearing a better style of mask and maybe wasn't so broody most of the time, but... never mind that! I must do something!)The bard realizes that the others are all looking at her.
.oO(Why are they all looking at me like- oh.)
She puts down the fist she has raised in front of herself and begins to sit once more, then changes her mind and turns to Tensek, putting on her best smile.
"Worry not, for I, Se- Pearl the... um...
.oO(Patient? Pedantic? Pig-headed?)
"--Practical--"
.oO(Oooh, good one...
)"--have perfected the art of disguise, wherby I may go unrecognized for days by even the most observant of bathers. I mean bakers! Yes, bakers! Eeeevil bakers..."
.oO(...never could they hope to match wits with one who had spent weeks in the guise of a pot, grateful for a dry place out of the rain and snow and the occasional company of an old lady who remained blissfully unaware of my presence the entire time.)
The half-orc sighs, her eyes far off.
"Ah, good times..."
.oO(A shame that I played the role too well...
)Shaking off the reverie, she grins and says, "Never fear, boys! Pearl will take care of it, as long as you're here in the morning and can afford to buy me breakfast." :D
Lucian immediately checks the weight of his purse and sighs very softly.
"I'm sure we can work something out," he says, "and we'll see you then. As it might be a long day, I'm calling it a night. See you all tomorrow."
He leans on his cane to stand and wanders out.
OoC: Kai, Tensek, please feel free to wrap up the evening here as you see fit between yourselvs, and to make a morning post if you like. After that, however, it's time to return to the adventure thread.
Oneof us should follow the baker and keep watch on him tomorrow I suppose.
*The ranger studies Kai for a moment before getting up and heading to the bar, where he purchases a room and heads up for the night.*
.oO( Tomarrow will not be a easy day...I may have to take things into my own hands if things start to become......unfavorable)
Leans his head back as he draws his hood.
.oO( The ranger is not a problem, its the girl. It would be much easier to kill her...)
Kai shakes his head as he suddenly stands up from his chair and leaves the inn.
.oO( I will worry about that tomarrow)
[To Adventure thread]
[to the Baker Adventure... mmmm baked goods.]
"I hope your well Grack.
Boirin smiles as Grack growls at him. He looks to Wealdy and smiles at the barkeep. He then walks behind the bar and dumps his stuff in the corner. He then walks to Marroc's office and knocks on the door.
The elf goes back outside to take care of Brie. After unstrapping the donkey's packs and bringing them inside, he leads him over to the stable, where Brie instinctively heads over to his usual stall. Tagg heads back into the inn, and greets Wealdy. He takes a seat at the table where he left the loot and starts to count it and sort out its value while he waits for Boirin to Marroc's attention.
"Hey, Boirin... d'ya ever think Marroc sleeps? Perhaps we'd best wait until the morning to bug him."
Boirin shrugs and comes over to Tagg, pours himself a beer, and takes a drag.
"You want one?"
Tagg says without looking up, not wanting to lose count as he adds up the loot.
"There ya go."
Tagg takes a gulp of the drink, and puts it back down. He drops a bag of salt from the table onto the floor next to it onto a couple other bags, after accounting for it. As he takes a momentary break from counting, he notices the darkness outside and swirling snow.
"I might stay here for the night.. Don't really want to head back out in this weather.."
he picks up one of the final bags from the floor and hoists it onto the table.
"I think I'll hit the sack here pretty soon. I'm pretty tired even though we only walked from Sorat-Arlon to here, I'm really sure whats come over me.
Boirin yawns again and drains his mug of beer.
"I spose I should get you a room key."
Boirin reaches under the bar and grabs one of the room keys. He then deposites the money for them into the cash box. He then hands the key to Tagg.
"I should be getting to bed before I fall over. Um you'll want to take your stuff up when you go to bed. Ya know this isn't the greatest neiborhood."
Boirin nods, gabs his stuff and heads up to his room. Once inside he strips down, washes off and heads into bed.
.oO(I wonder what I'll have for breakfast tomarrow...)
These are Boirin's last thoughts as he trails off into sleep.
---
The next morning, he returns the key to Boirin, gathers his equipment, and takes two of the shares of loot.
"I'll drop some of this off at the Hightower for Ulerian."
He heads out the door, and, as tempting as it is to get back to the boarding house, he decides to finish all of his other business before going home.
[OoC: to Hightower, still several weeks behind...]
[to LLI]
The next morning
Boirin rouses himself early and does his long stretches. He even bends over backwards, touching his hands to the ground and brings his legs over in a slow kart wheel. After yawning loudly he gets into his tunic and britches and puts on his armor carefully. Strapping his sword, in scabbard, to his right hip and then balances it with dagger on the other side. Then pulling his quiver over his shoulder, he pulls up the bauldric which bears the burden of his crossbow over his right shoulder. Next he pulls on his pack, making sure the crossbow can be drawn easily. Finally crowning himself with his old, battered dwarven-style halfhelm, he heads down stairs and exits the inn.
[To LLI]
Tagg finds his way easily to the weathered inn, and he follows the wall of the inn to the stables. He is, expectedly, greeted by Piper.
"Hello, mister."
"Hi, Piper. Just here to pick up Brie."
"Yes, yes, just a moment."
The stable boy gives a curt bow then scurries off, coming back leading the donkey by holding the front of the saddle.
When he exchanges control to Tagg, the elf removes a few silver coins from his belt pouch and gives them to Piper.
"Thank you."
The stable boy wears of face of overjoy and bows several times.
"Anytime, sir, anytime."
Tagg leads Brie a little ways away from the inn and starts to suit him up - depositing the bags of feed and rations into the side pouches, and tying the bedroll to its back.
"Quel..."
Tagg takes Brie and the two walk from the inn to the Last Lich to meet with Aramil, Boirin, and Ulerian.
{to LLI}
*Tensek enters Nobody’s slowly, the ranger has the look of a man on a mission of great importance. He sits down at an unoccupied table and waits to be served. When Billa comes by Tensek looks at her and orders a meal.*
Something to eat and have you seen an elven girl around here? She's about this tall, green eyes, black hair, has tatoos under her eyes.
"Oi think Oi moight 'ave. "oo's askin?"
An aquaintence of hers. The names Tensek.
"So yer that fellow she was askin abut then."
"She was in here a few days ago askin if Oi 'ad saw you."
"'ad no idea 'oo she was talkin' abut."
Well I was told she has some money of mine. I assume that's why she was looking for me. Would you know where she is?
"Ya know, she was askin me where she could foind you?"
"Oiu told her ta troi out in the woods."
"That's where ya usuallly foind rangers an druids."
"Or at least that's where ya'd expect ta foind them."
Marroc takes a deep drag feom his pipe.
"She used ta keep a room 'ere fairly often, but she stopped doing that awhoile ago."
"I 'aven't the foggiest idea where she'd be now, though ya mioght want ta troi lookin soimewhere where there's a lot of elvish males."
"Well just ;'ead out o'the city an pick a direction. Yer bound ta foind an elven kingdom within a few days."
" But 'ere in the city?"
"Well ya could troi askin at the elvish embassy, though Oi think thats not the toipe o'man yer friend seems ta loike."
That's not quite the answer I was looking for...
"Ya get wot ya give."
Nothign for nothing. Something for something. What is it you want than?
"I cin get yer money boi servin ya dinner. An Oi can't think of much use fer an archer 'ere in the city."
Marroc takes a puff off his pipe.
"Cin you?"
Not in terms of anything legal...
Tell me than if you don't want money nor have use for someone skilled with a bow. What is it you deal in?
"Ale, beer, spirits, and the other things that come with those. Joy, sorrow, forgetfulness...."
His voice lowers.
"But mainly information."
Than it seems we are at an impass. I'm still new here and know little about the city. And what I would know you probably already know as well.
"It ne'er 'urts ta get more then one perspective on things."
"'ow bad da ya want ta foind that girl?"
She has something that belongs to me. And it's causing more trouble for me than it should be. I'd like to find her as soon as possible.
"Yer probably just goina 'ave ta wait fer 'er ta foind you."
Marroc puffs on his pipe again.
"Oi've got a few sources that moight be able ta foind 'er, but if yer as new 'ere as ya claim, Oi doubt you'll be able ta foind anything."
"Unless she's lookin' fer ya ye've got a long wait on yer 'ands."
"Oi moight be able ta foind away fer ya ta keep busy until then."
"An if ya do well enough at it, Oi moight even be able ta foind 'er for ya."[/i]
"Nothin too 'ard fer a ranger."
"Oi' sent out a few of moi employess a bit ago ta track down soime goblins."
"Oi just want ta make sure they didna miss any."
So you want me to stalk them and report back?
"More or less."
Easy enough. When do you want me to head out?
"The only 'urry ya've got is 'ow soon ya wanta foind the lass."
"Oim not sure about 'untin' dogs. But ole Droggo Perrywinkles got a stable o'foine ridin dogs. A good perctentage of them are froim 'untin stock."
"Oi believe that's where Sir 'Ermy Woodhome got 'is dog, an ya won't foind a finer dog then ole. Major."
"If yer lookin at the long term, ya could see if ya could get one of 'is whelps if "Ermy ever studs 'im out."
"If yer wantin yer dog now, Oim sure Droggo cin find ya a decent enough one. 'is stables are a few blocks from 'ere on the edge o the 'alfling quarter."
Marroc slides the ale towards Tensek.
"My boyos ran inta their gobo's a few miles inta the woods out the southgate."
"Ya moight wanta stort there, though Oi think they may 'ave got most o'them close by."
*Tensek looks at the ale and shakes his head.*
I don't drink ale when on the hunt.
Tensek places enough coin to pay for the food and drink and leave Billa a nice tip on the bar. He pushes the coins across the bar towards Marroc.*
Thank you for the meal.
"No sense letting it go ta waste."
"Oi'll get ta work 'oldin up moi end o'the deal boi the end the day as well."Marroc takes another sip. "Oi should be able ta foind ya soimethin."
Excellent. I thank you for your aid.
*The ranger turns to his food and finishes it off with much vigor. Once done he rises from his seat and looks to Marroc.*
Who is it I'm to be finding?
Other than Goblins.
Marroc chuckles again, and takes another sip of his ale.
"Mainly you'll be 'untin fer gobbo's, but if ya 'appen ta coime across a wagon full of ale, you'll let me know won't ya?"
"One of moi suppliers seems ta 'ave missplaced a few barrells."
"Word 'as it, it was last seen 'eadin out inta the woods. It's most loikely gone now, but if ya 'appened to foind out 'oo an where it got taken too. Oi'd be much obliged."
Alright. Again thank you.
*With that Tensek turns and leaves the inn.*
[to elsewhere]
"Marroc, are you around?"
Slipping into the kitchen, he gasps in shock. The pots and pans have been left unattended, and all manner of burnt food is stuck to the utensils. Growling softly at the absent messmakers, he weaves a magical construct to help him clean up.
"What on earth were they doing in here?"
The next few hours are spent labouriously polishing the surfaces ad returning everything to a state of order As he works, he occasionally mutters magical words to himself to assist in the cleaning process when the grime is too tough for mundane cleaning methods.
OoC: Casts Unseen Servant and Prestidigitation
.o0(The kobolds…those disgusting creatures. I know Angelique meant well, but maybe it would have just been better if she hadn’t come with us.)
He smiles and shakes his head at the thought.
.o0(Then again, it was nice to have her with me.)
His muscles sore from the spellcasting and scrubbing it had taken to get the kitchen clean, the chair is a welcome relief. Drinking deeply from the mug, he leans back against a neighbouring table. On the far end of that table, out of his field of view, a pewter dish clatters to the ground. The sharp metallic noise on the stone floor startles Maelut to his feet. His hands snap towards his knives, sending the rest of his ale earthward.
On the other side of the room, Grack gives an amused snort.
As Maelut picks up the dropped items and takes them into the kitchen to wash out, he absent-mindedly talks to himself.
“By the gods, I’m jumpy beyond sense. This whole thing has been too much of a strain on my system, it’ll be good to get back to some simple work: the cooking.”
Putting a small pot of stew by the stove for anyone who wants to eat in the late evening, Maelut dries up the last of the kitchen items and walks upstairs to his room. Once inside, he strips down and indulges in a small bath before collapsing with relief into bed.
The Next Morning
The cook wakes up feeling refreshed, having slept so deeply as to not even remember dreaming. However, once he tries to get out of bed he realizes why he slept so deeply.
“Godswine, that hurts!”
Hiking all the way back from Sorat Arlon, plus the cleaning and magic he had used the day before had worn him out more than he realized. This morning, the soreness penetrates right through to his bones, making it nearly impossible for him to walk without shooting pain in his legs.
.o0(The best thing to do is walk the stiffness right out my system. The longer I lie here the harder it’ll be to get anything useful done today.)
He grits his teeth and works his way into his clothes. Several times he has to stop and massage the muscles with his hands before he can continue. On his way downstairs, he swears under his breath.
“That godless poison, it’s all thanks to that filthy dart. I’d like to see those kobolds do these stairs after a taste of their own medicine.”
Slowly, he gets the day’s food ready for the Inn’s residents. Still not seeing Marroc, he leaves a note explaining that he’s back and is going into the market to pick up some spices and general supplies for the cupboards.
Shouldering his empty backpack to carry whatever he buys, Maelut walks out the door in the direction of the market square.
[Exit to Market Square]
In the early afternoon, Maelut walks through the door, his backpack half-full with items for Nobody's cupboards. He looks around for Marroc, and then heads into the back room to begin shelving the food. As he works, he sips a tall glass of mint leaves and water to cool his aching body.
*Wearily Tensek wrestles the barrel into the front door of the inn. Standing near the entrance he pauses to rest using the barrel as support he leans on it as he regains his breath.*
.oO(Easier said than done getting it here. This better be his lost ale.)
*Glancing about he looks around for Marroc.*
"It loiks loike ya 'ad a sucesful trip."
He looks at Tenseks bloody body, and then nods. "Relativly speaking o'course."
"Ya found the missing ale then? Let me take a loik at it."
Marroc moves next to the keg and looks it over and finds the stamp on it.
"Its froim moi dealer ollroight."
He stands up and takes out his pipe.
"Where'd ya stash the rest o' it? Oi don't think yer goina be in any shape ta go get it fer awhoile. Oi'll send a few of me other boyos ta fetch it."
"Ya should get yerself ta Natalas ta get patched up."
Yes relatively succesful. It was the only barrel I found sadly. Three bandits had it in their possesion. I managed to fell a pair of them when they tried to ambush me but the third caught me as I was returning to the city he got away. They drank most of it though...
*Tensek drops the two campers money pouches on the barrel.*
This should hopefully cover what they drank.
*With a nod he agrees with Marroc on visiting Natala's.*
I'll head there right away and I'll be heading out again as soon as I can. I have a score to settle. I'll let you know if I find anymore barrels.
Three ta one odds, eh? Not a bad bit o'wok then. Even if ya dids only get two o'them."
""Thats two less ta worry about later.."
Marroc lights up his pipe and takes a puff.
"Now go get yerself fixed up an get soime rest. Oi'll 'ave yer information fer ya when yer ready ta act on it."
Thank you Marroc. I'll be back later on than.
*With a nod of goodbye Tensek turns and hobbles out of teh inn making his way to Natala's Mystic Shop.*
[to Natala's]
*Tensek enters the inn once again and with a nod to Marroc he purchases a room for the night and heads up to rest.*
...
*During the night Tensek finds himself waking periodically. The ranger lays awake in the dark room watching the shadows cast by the moonlight upon his ceiling. Silently Tensek is taken by sleep once again.
...
*A few hours after the sun rises Tensek wakens again feeling well rested and feeling even better than before. In silence he dons his gear and strikes out into the city after breaking his fast with a small meal.*
[to Elsewhere!]
Dravenous walks to an open table near the end of room and orders some spirits.
As he drinks he counts the money he has left, not much. If he doesn't want to be begging for money or living outside of the city he will have to find a source of money, and fast.
Gilgiga folows the human (force of habbit) curious about what goes on in a tavern.
He'd seen structures like this before, but never cared to figure out what they were for. He still semmes a little confused, but is quckly grasping the concept.
He moves up to the bar, a seat between him and the human.
He knows that the human knows he is folowing him, it's hard to keep a low profile in a place like this.
He manges to grab the bar keeps atention, and asks in a low voice.
<>
"Wot cin Oi do ya fer, me boyos?"
"People get drinks here, right?"
(edit: Engilsh quotation marks"
"Cin Oi git one fer ya, laddie?"
"That'll depend on wot koind of work yer loikin fer."
Do you have 'port?' I've always liked port."
He asks of the halfling, strugleing to try and remain polite.
"Its not too bad if ya 'old yer breath an swallow it quickily."
Marroc smiles and takes another puff off his pipe.
He stops and thinks, about what he wants to say
"Naw, that is ok, what do the humans drink here? Perhaps I will try some of that."
"Should Oi set ya up with a round?"
People pay with coins around here?
I think I have the right type."
He says slowly leting his deer skin sack drop off of his sholders from under the cloak, he digs around inside it until he finds a little sack.
*sigh*
"But with the amount of money I have right now I can't be real picky about what I do, right?"
Marroc waves at Wealdy, and the bartender starts pouring an ale.
Marroc takes another deep puff of his pipe as he watches the halforc dig for the coins.
"'aven't been in a city much, 'ave ya me boyo?"
"'Where 'ave ya loiked so far?"
He stops to think about what he wants to say, then decides he needs to hear it aloud first.
"I've seen villages before, and humans. I know how the move and act but don't know why. I've come to see how life is diffenet for humans than orcs"
Then procedes in his much less familair common
"I've come to this city to see humans up close. I've fought humans before, but not lived with them. I wonder what they are like."
He takes his ale when it arives, and drinks a sip, then smiles with approvement.
"What sort of coins do you need?"
He says withdrawing a few dozen coins of varying sizes and materials, all well worn and dirty.
He resits chuging the ale, and sips again.
"They're not much different then orcs. At least accordin to me boyo Grack over there."
Marroc points at the huge halforc bouncer.
""E tells me, a lot o' the toime the orcs are better be'aved."
"Oi donna 'ave any openins at the moment. But Oi moight be able ta foind out a few places that or 'iring."
I guess I will need to find a way to get more coins, I guess that would be the work that you were talking about?"
He gestures twards Dravenous.
"When an Orc wants something, he takes it. I do not think that humans act that way.
You said you could track Mr.?
I didn't not hear your name Mr.?"
"Oi'll be roight back. Oi 'ate ta keep a lady waitin if ya know wot Oi mean."
Marroc blows out a puff of smoke and then heads back to the counter.
"Wot cin Oi do ya fer lassie?
"Oh, my name is Dravenous. I learned to track as a child and I like to think I am pretty good at it. I'm just not usually very good at dealing at what is at the end of the tracks when it wants to fight."
I learned how to track when I was young too. I can handle prey fairly well, but don't like to.
Sometimes a sports a sport, sometimes it's more.
The reason I left the orcs is becuase they dudn't just hunt, they killed. I kill when I need to, but some prey is not ment to be killed."
He puts the coins away, but slips a copper one over to the bar keep.
Then he sips the ale again.
"What's good to eat?"
.o0(I don't like the way he said 'lady')
"Oi think 'es got soime meat poies ready now. Oi 'ope ya loike 'em spoicey."
"I'd have to say your right there and I would rather it be that way."
Takes another drink.
"That wouldn't happen to be sheep in the meat pies would it?"
Well I don't need coins, I can live away from the city mighty easy.
But I want to stay in the city so I guess I will need coins too."
He takes a sip
"I wonder what a human and a half can do for coins? This here is a big city. I bet at least one of us can find something to do.
I bet even sleeping takes coins in a place like this."
"Oi dunna 'ave the foggiest idea wots in it."
"Oi leave the cookin ta the cook, an 'e leaves the being the boss ta me."
"Wotever it is, its good."
"Verry well, that and some wine if you plese."
He sets the plate in front of Ely and then grabs a bottle of wine from under the counter.
He blows the dust off of it, and starts pouring.
"Ole' Maelut tells me its venison."
takes at bite
"Thats Good!"
""'e's a great cook, me boyo Maelut is. Oim lucky ta 'ave gotten 'old of 'im before soime fancy noble snatched 'im up."
Originally posted by Gilgiga of the Hunt
"I wonder what a human and a half can do for coins? This here is a big city. I bet at least one of us can find something to do.
I bet even sleeping takes coins in a place like this."
Ely turns
I couldn't help overhearing your predicament. If you are as good in the out doors as you say you are you coud go to a couple of sheep farms around here there is always help needed there. Though it dosn't pay much.
"That sounds like a good job offer. I don't need a lot of money, right now I would just like enough money to live here. Is there any specific direction that we can find the farms or are they all scattered around?"
"It's noit a bad livin, if ya fancy watchin after sheep all day."
"But if yer loikin fer soimethin a bit more excoitin, Oi'd suggest soimethin more in the city."
Marroc takes a puff from his pipe.
"Oi'll wager the city guard could use a tracker or too."
"An its a great way ta gewt a feel for what men or riley loike."
"And it pays."
Marroc exhales.
"Soimtimes it pays twice."
"Would you mind telling me what you mean by working for the city guard sometimes paying twice?"
Gilgiga who has remained silent all this time, speaks.
"So, it seems that there is a chioce of flocks to watch over, hmm"
He sips his ale and thinks some more.
"At least for now I'll be staying outside the city, I doubt they will want my coins out there.
I figure I will find something to do, watching sheep dosen't seem to bad. But I've seen my share of sheep watchers die."
"Theres a few poiple around that moight pay ya a bit on the soide ta keep them informed on wots going on insoide the chapter'ouse."
Dravenous looks toward Gilgiga
"Well you can sleep outside if you like, but I think I will be able to sleep easier inside the walls. Speaking of which..."
Dravenous turns back toward Marroc
"I'll be needing to sleep here tonight. How much does it cost?"
"An if ye donna mind the animals Oi cin let ya bunk in the stables fer a pair of coppers."
Dravenous pulls a silver piece out of his pouch and hands it to Marroc.
"The common room is upstairs, right?"
"Well now, it looks like there's some hungry people about. What do you think of the meat pies? It's a new combination I've been working on."
He pauses, and then shakes his head.
"Sorry, that was rude of me. I'm Maelut, cook here at Nobody's. What's your story?"
This last part is asked with a smile, out of genuine curiosity.
Dravenous then goes up to the common room because he knows he will need his energy tommorow.
But I'm learing all sorts of things, like humans aren't as polite as I thought they were and such."
Gilgiga replies slowly and thoughfully.
As soon as he finishes his meal he walks out the door trying with a little difficulty to get the second strap of his backpack on.
.o0(I hope that halfling was right that I could get a job working for the City Guard.)
[To Elsewhere]
Gilgiga decides to let known.
"I think I shal spend the rest of the day, and perhaps night sleeping here, Mr. Marroc."
He hands Marroc a silver and heads up to the commons. For his first sleep in the city.
Then looks to the nearest employee and orders a mug of ale.
He wonders where the bartender is as he smiles and gulps his drink graciously.
He sets his mug on the bar and picks up his lute and starts to tune it.
"Hi there, my name's Maelut, the cook here. Haven't seen you around before, you new to the city?"
Yea....i just got in town..Ma names Gebetto.....Schleppen
Shakes the mans hand firmly
So who do I have the honor of being in the presence of?
As he speaks he puts down his lute sips his ale.
"Oh, Mr. Maelut, I'd like to try one of yor meat pies, if it's none to much of a problem."
The Half Orc turns to Gebetto
"Oh hello, a music man, I rember when I was young we captured one of yous. We let him go after he played a few songs.
I like music."
Turns to face the orc.
well...you like music ..do ye...?...Would you like to make a request?...I know quite a large number of songs and love to play'em...i would be happy to do it...
He points to the lute.
"But I rember a song that the music man played. It was something about a battle, and there were dragons, and eagles, and farmers fighting for their home, do you know something like it?"
Gebetto Picks up his lute again and makes a few last second tunings...he then starts tapping his foot and slowly starts delicately pluck the strings of the lute and tap his foot in rythym
He starts to sing along with his playing...his voice ranging high and low, following the tones of his instrument.He sings of a great dragon named Molort and of the town of Aeulor being attacked by it...and of the brave towns folk grouping together with a great warrior that finally drives off the dragon.
[OOC:do i make a perform check or what?...if i do my mods are Perform +6 (4 ranks +2 Cha) and i rolled a19]
"Yes, there's the one. A little differnt than what I remember but a little the same.
Wonderfull Mr. Music Man.
By the way what is your name, if you please?"
Ma names Gebetto Schleppen...
Shakes the orcs hand and then sets his lute down.
So what may your name be?
"My name is Gilgiga and I have lost my last name.
Have you seen any jobs for a hunter? I sorta need one."
Smiles and raises his mug as a toast to his new friend, then lowers his mug and takes a sip.
.oO...gonna have to buy some more ale soon..oO
Ehh..i haven't seen any jobs so far...i just got into town and i'm looking for a job meself...i think i may just perform here and there...
I doubt I'll get enough coins by just hunting rabbit and bird."
Gebetto winks and smiles at Giligia...then shifts in his bar seat to a more comfortable position.
Anyway I usualy just wind up useing snares, set the snare, come back every day until you catch something. No need to shot anything, but I need to buy some things to make some snares."
He smiles at Giligia and turns around in his seat to face the bar.Gebetto sips his ale and wonders if he should buy some lunch...
I hunter I am, a hunter forever I will be."
Fumbles through his back pack and pulls some trail rations of smoked beef.He closes his backpack and munches on his improvised lunch happily.
Any stories about yourself?"
He winks and nibbles on his rations some more...then take a sip of his ale.
He procedes to heat the meal as soon as it arives and sips the ale.
.oO..he must have just left......well...i better get to bed...Ill talk to him tommorow morning if hes here...
Well....gilgiga..im goin up to my room...bye..it was nice meeting you....
He smiles,nods goodbye to Gilgiga then pays a barmaid for a common room ,and heads up stairs.
Gilgiga bieng a night person himself, upon finshing his meal heads outside.
[To Elsewhere]
Gilgiga enters the Inn a bit angry with himself.
He hands two small squirells to the chef and tels him to do what he pleases.
He than takes a seat at the bar, places his gear at his feet, orders an ale, and sulks.
"You did well hunting?"
When I got a better view it was gone.
I had to settle with a few squirrells, none good for selling"
He chugs a great amount of ale.
Dravenous looks over the bar and orders some spirits and lunch.
"I tried to look for the guard house and I got lost."
He takes another large chug
Slowly works on his food and drink.
Gilgiga laughs loudly
"Looks like we are both having a bad day!"
~~~~~~~~~
*In the morning Tensek wakes and gathering up his things he and Kiara head downstairs. After partaking in a modest breakfast Tensek stops at the bar and asks Marroc.*
Any news of Anaya?
"Step inta me office me boyo."
Marroc hops down from behind the counter, and opens the office door and steps in.
Grack moves out of the way so Tensek can follow.
Once inside the office, Marroc sits down in his comfy chair and lights up his pipe.
"Oi found out a bit on 'er, but Oi don't think it'll 'elp ya git yer money back anytoime soon."
"Froim wot Oi've 'eard. she left town."
This will just not do...
She'll be nigh impossible to track as well.
*Tensek pauses and looks up at the ceiling before turning back to Marroc.*
Do you have any idea on when she will be returning?
"I wasn't even able ta foind out where she was going."
Well there's little left for me to do but wait than.
*The ranger shakes his head.*
Well than it would be best if I returned to the task I have at hand. Would you be able to give a message to that Lucian fellow if you see him in here for me? Of course I'll compensate you for your troubles if you so wish.
Could you let him know that I'll be out of the city for a good length of time, and if he needs to find me me I'll just be on the fringe of the woods?
"Anything else?"
Thank you Marroc.
*With a slight bow of the head Tensek turns and steps out of the office. Stopping at the door he turns his head to look back.*
When I return I shall inform you of anything unusual I see.
*Without another word the Ranger steps from the office and makes his way out of the inn.*
"odd feling something important just happened."
He mutters under his breath and takes another sip.
He nods at Gilgiga, "Oi 'ear ya brought in soime squirrels."
He replies to him
"Feel free to let the chef do as he pleases with them."
Perhaps, I will join the watch, and hunt crime, but I have a little idea myself of a way to get work.
I don't know if I will get coins, but I will get a place to live.
If it works that is."
"Well I am going to get some sleep, good luck Gilgiga."
He pays for a night in the common room and goes to get some sleep.
"An a uniform too."
Gilgiga who's been awake for some time is lost in thought, wondering what he should do himself.
.oO...i guess i could do a little performing around here.....i oughtta play a song.....*smiles*.....oO
He takes out his lute and fiddles with the strings.
He sits and practices a little and starts playing songs whenever someone passes by in hopes that they will give him some money.
"Play on more note an Oi'll 'ave Grack 'erte feed ya wot remains of yer noise maker."
"Theres no music in moi inn."
Grack, raises his axe, behind Marroc.
He puts away the lute and continues to eat his breakfast.
It all depends on how things go for me."
With that he leaves the Inn for the streets, this time with a plan.
[to elsewhere]
She smiles and makes friendly banter with the newcomers.
"...a woman dwarrf, aye, though Ah prreferr the terrm 'dwarrfess'. And no, Ah doon't choose teh wearr a bearrd, though Ah did trry it oout when Ah was yooungerr. Ah foound it too scrratchy." ;)
"Oi cint imagine ya with a beard, Yer a bit too sensible fer that nonsense."
He pours himself a glass.
"Wot brings ya in 'ere this foine day, Brodda me lass."
"Marrroc, d'yeh even rrememberr bein' yooung and dooin' odd things?"
She chuckles and rubs her chin with the memory of the beard that she wore for a brief time. She takes a long drink of the Greycloak and smiles as if she were in heaven.
She looks at Marroc looking at her, a slight smile on his gruff face.
"Y'knoow, that Grreycloak is the best. Wherre was Ah? Oh yes! Ah need teh cheerr up Minto, and Ah need a jug o' ale teh go. Did yeh hearr aboout Majorr? And Herrmy? Why dooes that halflin' hafta go thrroough so much? It just isn't fairr."
He takes a deep drink of his ale.
"Ole Mintos not takin' it well then?"
"Marrroc, he's trryin' teh have Majorr rresurrected. Noow, Ah agrree wholehearrtedly that Herrmy's had teh sufferr a lot of trragedy forr one lifetime. But teh spend the kind of money it takes forr a rresurrection on one's dog? Ah knoow he was Herrmy's best frriend, exceptin' Minto..."
Her voice drifts off as she collects her thoughts. She looks directly into Marroc's eyes.
"Wherre dooes it stop? When do we get teh pass on to the Grreat Halls of ourr foorrefatherrs? When does one get teh rrest in the Motherr's carre and comforrt? How do we learrn teh accept the passin' of a loved one if all it takes is a few rriches teh brring 'em back so we doon't have teh feel the pain of theirr loss?"
She looks into her ale and sighs.
"No one comes back from the dead if they dunna want too."
Marroc pulls out his pipe and starts to pack it, and then offers the tobacco pouch to Brodda.
"Some souls 'ave unfinihed work they feel they need ta do on this plane. An Oi'm glad theres a way fer them ta accomplish that."
"Just think about 'ow many loives 'ave been saved boi Miss Natala returning to continue 'elping out those in need."
"Or where yer investigation inta the where aboots o' 'Ermys father would be ifDaron 'adn't coimeback."
He lights up his pipe.
""oo are we ta choose when a loife is over? That's up ta the gods, an ta the individual involved."
He blows out a smoke ring.
"But Oi know wot Oi'll choose when its moi toime."
"A big comfy chair, an eternal supply o' foine tabacco, an the best ale the Mothers got in stock."
Finally she shakes her head.
"Marrroc, when Ah go, make surre Ah doon't get brrought back unless the Motherr appearrs to yeh in a vision."
She smiles feebly over her mug as she drinks.
"Oi suspect ye'll live a lot longer then me, lass. Yer still in the proime of yer youth. An ya've got a better 'ead on yer shoulders then Oi did when Oi was young."
"But, aye, if it 'appens, Oi'll be sure ta let soimone know yer wishes."
Marroc takes a deep puff and watches the smoke twirl towards the ceiling. Then he looks back at Brodda.
"Oi faced a group o'giants back when Oi was 'Ermys age. Daron, Dax, Thendranous an me barely escaped with our loives."
"A few more o' moi friends weren't so lucky."
Marroc takes another swallow of his ale, and another puff.
"Thot group going ta rescue 'Ermys got their work cut out fer them, that's fer sure. But Oi think Darkar cin manage. Natala too."
"An Oi wouldna put it past 'Ermy ta still 'ave a trick or too up 'is sleeve."
"'E may 'ave a lot o' bad things 'appen in 'is loife, but if ever there was a 'alflin 'oo 'as the Mothers luck on 'is side, it's 'im."
"Therre's a pooint Ah cin't arrgue with yeh on. The Motherr is generrous in herr carre of herr herrroes, thoough soometimes it might be harrd teh see."
She finishes her drink and slides the empty back to Marroc.
"And Ah shoould be gooin' with that jug. Minto's waitin' and stewin'."
She hops down from the barstool and readies to go, tossing several small-denomination coins on the counter.
"Be careful with this. Its Greycloak."
"Oi figure this is an occasion that moight call fer the good stuff."
"Aye! Carreful Ah'll be!"
She takes the jug and cradles it in her arms like a wee babe. She looks back to Marroc, her eyes bright.
"Marroc, Ah doon't knoow what teh say. Yeh'rre a love!."
She turns with her precious bundle and heads out the door
[to NMS]
"Sir, few days ago you told me that the City Guard was always offering jobs to the willing, but I never found out where the building was. Could you direct me in it's general direction?"
"The guard's barracks? That's pretty much on the other side of the city. Just head towards the Marketplace, turn right when you get to the Temple of Ordometrex, and the barracks are just a little down that road."
He looks over Dravenous for a moment, and then continues.
"It's a pretty posh neighborhood, so you might run into a few snotty nobles. Don't worry, though, they won't do anything to you as long as you stay out of their way."
Finished with the chicken bone, he fills a mug with water and drinks slowly. He winces on the first taste, as the remnant of some bad beer was in the bottom.
"So, why do you want to join the guards? Planning to save us all from dragons and gremlins?"
"No, no... I just need some place to sleep and food to eat while I live in the city."
Maelut thinks back to his encounter with those two strange men who were trying to kill Joseph after the midwinter feast.
"As for food, it's not going to be gourmet. I've got a cold roast in the back, can I offer you a sandwich before you leave? You'll never do much good in the guards if you don't look well-fed and strong."
As he makes the sandwich, Maelut has an idea.
.o0(A friend in the city guard would be very useful, especially since this isn't the most crime-free part of the city.)
"Of course, you don't really have to pay for it if you don't want to. I like to see people enjoying my cooking. All I'd ask is that you keep Nobody's in your mind while you're working on the guard. We sometimes have problems with vandals, and the guard aren't quick to respond. It'd be nice to have someone who knows that we're just decent people trying to make a living, and that the nobles aren't the only ones who need protecting."
"Sound fair enough?"
"Well thats sounds much more than fair to me. You are a very generous man. I accept your very kind offer."
"There you are, that ought to keep your stomach in check for a few hours. Knowing the city leaders, you'll probably have to wait to join the guards while you fill in endless paperwork. This should give you some strength to get through it."
"Good luck in the guards, and our door is always open for a defender of the city who needs a drink."
"Oi think moi cook 'ere 'as spent to long in the 'eat of the kitchen."
"The doors ta this inn aren't always open ta the city guard."
"Oi 'ave a clintelle ta look out fer 'ere, an most o' them don't want a guardsman lookin in on thar buisness."
He turns his gaze on Maelut.
[color=purple]"Oi don't know where ya got the idea that we're just decent people troin ta make a livin 'ere? TRhe staff may be, bit the clientelle aint."
"An its the clientelle that pays the bills."
"This aint the Last Lich. This is Nobody's Inn. An ya need ta face the facts."
"Its a dive. An thats the way Oi loike it."[/color]
He looks back to the expert.
"Oi'll let it sloide if ya want to coime in fer a drink once in awhoile, but ya'd best not do it in uniform."
"An I'd troi ta keep yer occupation a secret from the customers as well."
"A few o' them moight deceide ta walk ya 'ome if ya get moi meaning."[/i]
"I will keep that in mind and I will do all I can to keep my job out of Nobody's. I understand how you feel. When I enter here it will not be as a guard it will be as a customer and the Guard does not need to know anything that happens in here. Nobody's business will stay Nobody's business."
"Good ta 'ear that me boyo. Oi'd 'ate ta lose ya as a customer just because ya've deceoided ta make something worth whoile of yer loife, but Oi do 'ave ta look out fer oll moi customers."
Marroc poors an ale and slides it over to him.
"Its on the 'ouse."
Marroc pours another for himself. He takes a swallow and then leans across the countere towards Dravenous.
"An just so ya know, Oi think yer making the roight choice me boyo."
"Well, I can't seem to say thank you enough times today."
He grabs his drink and takes a gulp out of it.
"Hopefully the future will look kindly on all of us."
"You can't really be angry with me trying to make a friend in the city guard. That could be a helpful person no matter what. And besides, it's not like I'm a part of whatever goes on at this Inn. I stand here cooking day after day, seeing you involved with all sorts of whispering with customers. All I'm saying is, I wish you could trust me a bit to know what's going on. Maybe then I wouldn't make mistakes like inviting a guard to the Inn. It's just that I like working here; nobody bothers me and I can cook all day. I'd like to make sure I don't do anything to jeopardize that, and not knowing anything makes that hard."
"Angry me boyo? Whoi would Oi be angry? Oim the one 'oo suggested 'e join the guard in the first place so Oi could 'ave a man on the insoide there."
"Oi just 'ad ta get ya ta kep quiot about it, an keep up appearance at the saime toime. Ya never know when soimeones not moinding their own buisness."
Marroc laughs again.
"Ok, maybe Oi do know since Oim the one behind a lot o' the snoops."
The smile fades replaced by a more somber face.
"Listen Maelut me boyo. Yer a foine cook, an an equally noice person. You dunna wanna get inta the buisness Oim in. An Oi dunna mean the Inn."
"Ya mentioned trust, well once ya get involved you'll ne'er be able ta trust anyone completely again."
.o0(Maybe he's right, I don't want to get myself into trouble by meddling in someone else's business.)
"Alright, I guess it would make sense for me to leave well enough alone. And if you do need someone to trust, I'm always here to help you. You've given me a job and a roof, and for that I do owe you."
He pauses, and then decides to lighten the mood a little.
"But if your secret deeds ever unearth ancient recipe books, I expect to be the first one to know about it."
He grins, and then turns back to the dishes.
Dravenous quickly drinks his ale as Marroc and Maelut walk back.
.oO(Drawing attention to myself right before I leave seems like a bad way to show that I understood the halfling's advice so I'll just leave without giving any goodbyes.)
Dravenous grabs his bag and his sandwich and walks out toward the Guard's Chapterhouse
[To City Guard Chapterhouse]
"Or at least one Oim interested in ya knowin."
Marroc smiles. "Me ol'muther, Ordermetriz blees 'er soul, used ta make the most deliciousroisen bread."
""Great fer adventurin, there was soime koinda spoice in uit that keept it fresh fer days. We moight be able ta sell it ta a few of the 'eroes around the city.""
Marroc scratches his head. "Oim not sure wot it was though, Oi could send soime one back ta Brannons run ta see if any o'me aunts cin remember."
Marroc shrugs. "Or ya could just ask one o'yer supploiers if they've 'eard o' soimethin loike that."
"Loike Oi said, we moight be able ta make soime extra money off it." He looks at Maelut and lowers his voice. "An foind out wot the adventurin toipe are up too."
"That certainly sounds like a valuable recipe to know. I can't ever remember seeing something like it, although I've heard rumors of elves making bread that lasts for weeks...maybe it's something similar. There's a supplier in the market who's a friend of mine, he was one of the first people I met back when I arrived in the city. There's a better-than-not chance that he'd know what sort of herb you're talking about."
As he talks, Maelut's voice gets more and more excited. The thought of a new herb to combine into his recipes is enough to get his mind racing as he considers other applications for the plant.
.o0(If it can keep bread fresh then it must be able to prevent mold...so if you sprinkled it in cheese during the solidifying stage it could get a marbled effect. And, and, and if you used it in sausage rolls or...cream puffs....it could...and then you'd add...if I could work out the flavour components...with fruits...mixing in the cream...seperate the...and then...)
His mind speeds out of control as he gets excited about using a herb he's never heard of. Especially one with such unusual properties. Maelut shakes his head to clear it, and looks back at Marroc, his voice much more even and controlled.
.o0(I mustn't seem too excitable, Marroc wants a steady head working here.)
"I'll go to the market and ask Dorian, if you don't mind watching the kitchen for a while."
Maelut hurriedly puts away the last of the drying plates, trying to suppress his eagerness to discover all the uses of this new herb. Scarcely waiting for a response from Marroc, he scurries out of the Inn and towards the market.
[Exit to Market Square]
"Back again so soon lass."
Behind him, two shady figures dart out of the smoke and then out of the inn.
"Couldn't resist more o'me cook cooking?"
He heads behind the bar and starts wiping off a glass.
"Wot cin Oi do ya fer?"
"Usually Oi 'ave trackers coimin, in 'ere looking fer work."
Marroc blows out a puff of smoke from his pipe, and puts down the badly smudged glass.
"So wot da ya need tracked? An 'ow da ya wanna do it?"
"Quietly? or publicly?"
"There are wolves attacking the sheep around the city. These wolves have just cost me my job. I need a tracker to help me destroy the wolves."
"Tyros, 'es a young elf lad, somewhat new to these parts, well ta civilization in general. But 'e knows 'oo ta 'unt. Wolves in particur. 'e moight be about soimewhere, 'e was 'elping out a bounty 'unter ta foind a nasty little 'avetuck, but they should 'ave 'im boi now."
Marroc takes another drag. "Tagg would be able ta 'elp ya as well, except 'es out on soime fool quest. "Oi 'aven't the foggiest ta when that elf will be back."
"Theres always Tensek, 'es proved ta be capable, as long as yere not expecting stimulatin conversation. 'e can be a bit ta the point, though Oi don't suspect a toilative 'unter is oll that succesful. Last Oi 'eard 'e was still in town troin ta train 'is dog 'ow ta 'unt too."
Marroc exhales slowly.
"Oi recon the Silver Sword 'as a few trackers as well, but Oi donna know ta much about them, or if thar in town. Most of them are always off savin one thing or another."
Marroc puts down his pipe, and pours out an ale.
"Thars been a few new foilk coime inta town recently claimin ta be trackers as well. Oi couldna tell ya if thar any good."
"But Oim sure they'd be willin ta troi an prove it. Glilggia, a 'alf orc, an don't hold that against 'im, soime of moi best froinds er 'alforcs, caime in loikin fer work, Oi 'aven't seen 'im yet, but 'e moight not be too 'ard to foind."
"A well spoken 'alforc tends ta stand out."
Marroc takes a drink of the ale. "An another fellow caime in around the saime toime. Dravenous Oi think is name was."
"Claimed ta be a tracker as well. 'es joined the guards since then, so 'e moight be a good choice. If ya cin convince 'is superiors that the wolf problem is a threat ta the city, ya moight be able to get 'im ta 'elp ya out fer free."
Marroc takes another puff.
"Any o'them sound loike they could work fer ya?"
.o0(well I guess I made one good decision today)
"ah yes that is a great deal of help, thank you"
bows politely andheads out the door excitedly
(to elsewhere)
He eyes the room reflexively while walking up to the counter and looking for the innkeeper.
Marroc comes hobbling out of the kitchen and then stops.
"'oo the 'ell are ya, an wot 'ave ya done with e boyo, Kywyn?"
Marroc grins as he steps behind the counter.
"Its a new loik fer ya me boyo. Almose cheerful. Is soimethin wrong?"
"Almost," Kywyn agrees.
"Though leaves change color before they drop."
He lowers his voice and leans his elbows on the counter.
"I felt bad for leaving you hanging for so long after we last spoke. Many things have been settled. Some threats were put to rest... my brother was lost. Probably all just bits of information floating around that you'll hear eventually."
"But it doesn't seem like we'll be needing to go through your lines as planned right at the moment. There maybe other ways for us to continue," he adds softly.
Marroc gets out two glasses and starts to fill them. One with wine, the other with ale.
"Care for a drink ta 'is memory."
He pushes the wine glass towards Kywyn.
"Or a drink ta puttin yer threats ta rest? Which ever seems more appropriate."
Marroc raises his glass and takes a drink. "Or ta both."
He takes another drink.
"Don't ya worry nione about not 'aving ta use moi lines. Oi cin save them fer another toime, or another person."
"Thats the thing about groups loike that. They're always around."
"Maybe just a drink to a better day... for hope."
Not a practiced drinker, the wine rushes to his head for a second.
Kywyn nods to Marroc's comments, "Yeah."
"Fishing's funny that way, isn't it?"
"Thanks for the drink, Marroc. I'll seek you out if things change."
He sets his glass down.
"Don't 'esitate ta coime in, even if doesn't change."
"Yer always welcoime 'ere."
With a push of the door, Kywyn is gone.
[to Market Square]
Maelut enters through the front door and quickly heads to the kitchen to make sure that everything is in order. Seeing that all is well, although shaking his head at the mess made by the others of his carefully designed organizational scheme, he turns and takes the steps two at a time up to his room.
Inside, he puts all of his outdoor gear into his backpack, hoping that it won't be necessary but not wanting to be caught unawares. After everything is carefully packed, he removes the armour from its place in the corner and fastens it onto himself. The leather has a thin layer of dust from disuse, and as the straps slide through the buckles this dust is thrown into the air, making Maelut's eyes water and causing him to sneeze.
As he throws the backpack onto his shoulder, Maelut lets out a small grunt. The muscles which he had taken for granted before the incident with the kobold's poison have been slow to recover, their aches remain as a painful reminder of what can happen when you underestimate a situation.
Shaking off the memory of the painful wound, Maelut quickly walks back down the stairs despite his heavy load and, after writing a note to Marroc explaining his plans, goes out of the door and in the direction of the Church.
[Exit to Church of Agathalos]
"I'll be down in a bit after I get cleaned up and into cleaner clothes."
Boirin does exactly what he said he would and goes upstairs and cleans up in his room.
[edit forgot half my post]
When the dusty establishment comes into Tagg's view, he takes Brie around to the stables first. He is greeted by Piper, who intuitly goes to Brie's other side. The elf looks exhaustedly at the packs still on the donkey's back.
"Hey, Piper."
"Hullo."
He takes the bedroll and other items still on Brie off, and then heads inside. As he dumps the gear in his hands off, he is greeted by Wealdy from behind the bar.
"'Lo, Wealdy. Ale, please."
As the bartender gets the drink Tagg finds a seat at the bar and puts the appropriate coins down.
"Thanks."
"No problem thar, Tagg. I havna seen you in a bit, whatcha been doing?"
And so, Tagg recounts the events of his quest with Aramil, Boirin, and Ulerian.
"Ah! Quite a story. Glad to see yeh've made it back safely, and 'tis always nice to hear the miracles that the Mother can do."
The elf nods slowly in automatic agreement. After wetting his throat from the speech with a drag of ale, he turns back to Wealdy.
"Anything happenin' over here on your end?"
The man freezes for a moment as he thinks thoughtful thoughts (er.. well at least thoughts) wearing a thoughful expression, and then responds.
"Y'know, I believe I 'ave. When I moseyed down to the market to pick up some supplies, I found a silver coin jus' sitting on the ground!"
"Heh. Imagine that!"
He finishes his drink, making some small talk for a bit with Wealdy.
"Well, I best be going. Want to unpack, and whatnot."
"Awlright. Good day to ye, Tagg."
"Bye."
He picks up the things he had dumped before and heads out the door, a bit more refreshed from the short break.
{to Weatherby Boarding House}
"Oh, ur back from yur little adventure with Tagg and Aramil. Well good to see ya gettin back ta work."
"Was Tagg in here?"
"Yeah, he left right before you came down. Told me bout your adventure."
"Oh thats good."
Boirin continues to work untill its about dinner time, and hes starting to get hungry.
"Hay Weadly can I have some of tonights dinner?
Sure, there ya are.
Boirin is handed a bowl of unidentifiable brown mush, which he guesses is stew. It has slightly square lumps in it which he guesses are meat. To the side is a thick heal of bread. He eats his meal quietly at the bar serving peoples drinks as they want them. After a slow night Boirin eventually gets tired, when this happens he heads up to his room and collapses in bed falling asleep quickly.
Back up to speed
Boirin wakes up about noon and gets out of bed. Scratching his eyes, Boirin runs through his stretches and wanders down to the common room. He grabs some bread and cheese for breakfast. Then heads out the door to go get some better clothes for adventuring.
[to elsewhere]
He slides up next to Boirin.
"Evenin me boyo."
"Soory Oi 'aven't been around much ta 'elp out around 'ere. Oi've been a bit busy with personal things."
"'ow 'ave things been going?"
"Not bad boss, I've been having adventures and getting better at the things I do. I can even make good tips here as a bartender. I've made about 50 gold on tips in the last few weeks. Pretty good as all things go I guess. Why?
Marroc watches as a smoke ring drifts towards the ceiling.
"Glad ta see ya aint fer gettin yer duties what with oll yer adventurin."
"Fifety in tips probably don't seem loike much ta ya after oll the loot yer been gettin Oi'll wager."
"Anyway its given me time to think about stuff, and go bowling every week."
Boirin is quite for a couple moments and then says.
"Have you seen Maelut? When I went on an adventure with him last, he fell in a river and I lent him a set of clothes. I'd like to get them back.
"Oim surprised ya 'aint ran inta 'im. Or at least smelled 'im."
"Oi didna realise 'ow much Oi missed 'im until Oi troid 'is rabbit stew."
"The boyo's a wizard 'e is."
"But the koind Oi approve off. The culinary koind."
Marroc pours himself an ale.
"'E's out troin ta track down the ingridents fer a new receipe currently."
"'e should be back soon."
"Well I guess I've been out of the inn when I'm not eating or sleeping. Thats probably why I missed him.
"That makes sense."
"It aint roight fer a young man loike yerself ta spend oll 'is toime in an inn."
"That's old mens work."
"And Gracks."
Marroc tilts his head towards the bouncer.
"Ya should consider join soime kinda club or organization."
"Yer predessor 'ere at the inn, Darkar, seemed ta do quiote well for 'imself. Workin 'ere an runnin off with the Silver Sword ta make a naime fer 'imself."
"It's a shame 'e 'ad ta go ruin it boi joinin the Jackals. That boyo 'ad potential."
"Well Oi 'eard rumours about a group 'oo 'elped out the Mother."
"Ya aint 'eward nuthin about that 'ave ya?"
"Oi'd think that might qualify. There a funny bunch those 'eroes."
"They seem ta think things loike that are 'eroic."
"Maybe tomarrow I'll go and talk to them. I did go with a guild member, name's Aramil, good man. Anyway I didn't kill the beast it was our mage, and he died. He came back though."
"Maybe, I'll just do that."
Boirin asks as he pours himself a mug.
"Did ya 'ave ta ask me boyo?"
Marroc slides his glass over to Boirin.
"Make it the good stuff will ya."
"An nce yer ready, pour yerself another."
"Oi think yer ready fer it."
"There ya go."
Boirin pours himself a drink and takes a long drag, he then wipes his mouth on his sleeve and smiles at a good beer.
"In moi office."
Marroc nods at Grack, who steps out of the way to let Marroc open the door wide enough for Boirin to enter.
"Would ya moind movin that fer me? Against the wall should do me boyo?"
Boirin does so, and takes a seat.
Marroc blows out a puff of air.
"Ya've coime a long way since the day ya came in 'ere tailkin about yer skills."
"A bit of discresions a good thing in our buisness me boyo."
""ow are yer skills developing?"
To illustrate his point he drops a dagger from his sleeve and begins to clean his nails. He smiles at Marroc.
"Thanks for not turning me in that day, that did teach me something. I haven't tried anything but killing monsters yet."
"Turn ya in? If Oi turned in even a fraction of the people 'oo 'ave that koind a talent, there'd only be Brodda an Gnorm ta keep me in buisness."
"Keep you in buisness. I thought you lost money on me?"
"Oi opened it fer the love of stimulatin conversation an fer the ale."
"But mainly it's fer gathering information. That's where Oi make moi money at."
Marroc points at the floor where the chair had been.
"Notice anything strange about that floor?"
Looking closer at it, Boirin can see that the faint outline he noticed before surrounds a patch of floor that doesn't quite match up with the rest.
"Looks like a trap door if you ask me..."
"Yeah I'm sure of it. Its a trap door. I could porbably force it open, but that might break the thing. Where does it lead?"
"As ta where it leads, that's up ta ya ta figure that out me boyo."
Marroc leans back in his chair and puts his hands behind his head as he watches the smoke dance towards the ceiling.
[ooc: search +10, disable device +11]
He slides in a second pick, and presses down on the spring and then flicks the latch. Using a third, larger tool he carefully prys up the door.
It leads down into a tunnel. The spring he is still holding down is attached to a board designed to spring up and strick who ever opened the door.
Not seeing Marroc, Jalen orders a water from Billa. He glass is set down in front of him sloshing a bit onto the counter top.
"2gp"
"What? 2gp for water?"
"This is a bar, not a watering trough."
Reluctantly Jalen gives Billa the 2gp, and she hurrmphs and goes on about her business.
"Don't let Billa get to you, she is always like that. I have only seen her act friendly to one other person and he was a gnome. Until then I thought if she smiled she would break her face from the unusual strain."
Jalen allows himself a slight laugh at the thought.
"So what brings you here? I do not remember you from before."
"I am too purchase something, for my employeer but I am unsure where to find it. I know that Marroc knows a lot of things about the city since he has been here for a long while."
"Oh really what were you looking for, I may not be as knowledgeable as Marroc, but I am not without my resources."
"Dice, not sure how many that are needed, but I think ten pair should be enough."
"Dice are easy enough to obtain, so your employeer enjoys gambling?"
"Not certain, I am not privy to every vice, and pleasure."
"It so happens that I am an exceptional gambler, and shooting dice is my game. In fact for a modest fee I can get you 10 identical pairs of dice, and one pair of them are guarenteed to always be lucky."
Wealdy winks at Jalen, but just then Billa walks by and he is distracted and misses the wink.
"Ah good, lucky is always a good thing how much for that?"
Considering that luck is hard to come by when shooting, guarenteed luck will cost a bit more. So say 10gp for all 10 pairs of dice?"
"10gp? I am not sure it seems a bit much even if they are lucky."
"Then do not think of it as money, as more of an investiment with certain returns. With identical dice it could even be considered a collection, and those go up in value. In fact for you I will even throw in a leather bag to carry them in, of course I will hand you the lucky dice so that you can keep them seperate and not confuse them."
"Well you make a strong argument and I am not sure where else to go to find what I need. I think the added expense should not be a big deal then. Go ahead and get the dice, I think we have an accord."
Huge grin on his face Wealdy hurries off. A few moments later he presents Jalen with a small leather bag inside are small green dice with white dots representing the numbers. Then he hands Jalen another pair of dice that are identical to the ones in the bag. Satisfied Jalen counts out 10gp for Wealdy.
"Thanks for your assistance."
"Thank you for your business sir, and I hope to be of assistance again."
Jalen finishes his water and then leaves to continue on about his business.
Marroc calls out from above. "Moind the twelfth rung me boyo."
Once Boirin gets to the bottom he sees a small room. Along one wall is a rack of locks of various sorts.
Against another is a chest.
Marroc follows Boirin down.
"The locks are for practisin yer skills on They're of different levels of complexity. Thew ones on the right are the easiest ."
"The chest is fer leavin alone. At least fer now me boyo."
"When ya've got soime spare toime feel free ta coime down 'ere an practise."
"Grack'll let ya in the office."
"This is a pretty neat room though, boss."
Marroc takes one of the locks down from the wall and starts tinkering with it.
"Hay boss, off shift. I'm going to start on some of the locks now."
[ooc: Disable device +11, take 20]
Marroc watches while smoking and once he hears the sound of the lock snapping open, nods.
"Yer a bit better then Oi expected. Troi it again though. This toime faster."
Marroc reaches into his apron pocket and pulls out his set of tools
"Yer not always goinna'ave the toime ta do it so carefully."
Marroc tosses one of his picks at Boirins head.
"Wot or ya waitin for?".
[ooc:Open lock +11]
"Not bad me boyo."
"Yer definetly good at this. Where'd ya learn originally?"
"Seem ta think it'll lead them inta trouble."
Marroc puffs away on his pipe.
"Troi a 'arder lock this toime.
[ooc: open lock +11]
Marroc doesn't say a word and puffs away.
[Open lock +11, another check, if it fails take 20]
Once he slows down and takes his time he manages to snap it open.
Marroc shakes his head. "Loiks loike you'll be spendin a fair amount o'toime down 'ere me boyo."
"Looks like I will, but as they say practice makes perfect right? Anyway I'm no novice but I'm by no means an expert. Do you want me to keep going?"
"Oi've got ta get back upstairs."
"Oi've got a glass to clean."
Marroc starts up the ladder.
Yawning, Boirin heads up the ladder and walks to his room. Once inside he strips down and collapses into bed, quickly falling asleep.
To Elsewhere
The out-of-uniform expert walks into the inn slowly, trying to look as unconspicuous as possible, but at the same he looks around him for people who may attack him.
Not wanting to draw any attention by randomly asking people if their name is Brand Ravenkin, Dravenous sits down on a stool by the bar and puts a copper piece on it to order an ale hoping that the bartender will be able to point him to the bounty hunter.
"Wot cin Oi do ya fer me boyo?"
Dravenous quickly adds, "And I do not think I should be bothering any of your patrons by asking them if they are him."
"Oi aint seen Brand coime in 'ere yet taday."
""e was out 'unting that 'alftuck with Tyros, a young elf ranger, last Oi 'eard."
"Ole' Brands a 'ard one ta miss too. There's only a few dozen people in this town runnin around wearin masks, an not many o'them are as big as Brand."
.oO(Well I guess he's the one I'm supposed to work with.)
Brand heads over to the pair.
Good day to you Marroc, I'd liek to pay in advance for a spot in the common room for the night if thats alrigfht with you. he says as he fishes out the coinage from his belt pouch.
You must be the guard I'm supposed to guide through the tunnels. I'm Brand. He says turning to Dravenous.
I'd offer a handshake but as you can see I'm a mess. Oh yes, Marroc do you know of a decent bathhouse nearby I could visit to get cleaned up? He says turning from Dravenous to Marroc.
"No need ta waste yer coin at a bath 'ouse when ya cin waste it 'ere."
"Oi cin 'ave Wealdy set up a bath in yer room once yer ready fer it boyo. On'y cost ya a private room an an extra gold too."
"It is nice to meet you Brand, I am Dravenous."
.oO(ok there is 2 from your share, 14 for you 17 for each of them.)
Here we go, I think that should cover it then, the change should be plenty enough for an ale for each of us, what do you say Dravenous, care for a drink?
I'll take what ever private room you have open and the bath as soon as possible, I want to be rid of this stink. He says with a smile to Marroc.
He turns to actually get a good look at Dravenous.
.oO(well, he looks liek he can handle himself I suppose, but I said he same about Tyros...)
So how long have you been in the city?
"How long have you been here?
Eh, couple weeks maybe.
While looking at Brand, Dravenous thinks, .oO(He definitly a better fighter than me. If anything bad happens I would feel safe if he was in front of me.)
Marroc if its not too much trouble can i get that room and bath ready now?
Brand drops his pack from his back and places it near his feet.
So, have you done much of this kind of work before? He says to Dravenous
"How hard was it finding the halfling theif?"
It didnt help the matter that neither of them seemed too experienced in the matters.. wich is probably mostly my fault.
Brand shifts his attention as Wealdy comes up to them and lets Brand know his bath and room are ready.
AH, terrific, well if you'll excuse me. I'll be back in a moment. Brand says as he heads off to his room with his pack in hand.
Once in his room brand strips down and gets into the bath and with a rag from his pack scrubs down abd proceeds to scrub off the larged areas of grime and muck from his clothing and armor.
.oO(Finally going to be rid of most of that stink! those halflings did a number on my back with those clubs of thiers. I'll have to warn Dravenous about them)
Brand smiles to himself as he thinks about the surprise they will get when he see them again.
After a while, around 20 minutes brand returns to the bar a bit damp but smelling better then he did.
Well, I'm ready to go, I need to stop off at the Silver sword guild before I head to the sewers if that is alright with you, wont take but a moment. He says to Dravenous as he heads for the door.
"Do you mind if I come with you?
What? Oh, heh yeah I meant on the way to the tunnels, I figured you would come with me. He says as he steps out of the inn and inot the streets.
to elsewhere
[To Elsewhere]
[to Ironwolf Armory]
Boirin comes back to Nobody's and spends a few quiet days where he doesn't do much of anything.
Maelut enters the Inn, bloodied and sore from the imp's venom. Carrying the chest up to his room, he places it at the foot of his bed while he warms some water for a bath. He slowly and methodically washes himself, and then collapses into bed.
The Next Morning
Waking from his slumber, Maelut looks at his revolting clothes, unwilling to spend the energy it would take to magically clean them of the sweat and grime. In the small washbasin, he scrubs them until the smell and stains come out, then dries them at the window. Finally, he goes downstairs to begin the daily cooking.
With some bacon and eggs frying and a few simple herbs sprinkled over the morning potatoes, Maelut fetches the chest from upstairs.
"Marroc, Boirin, either of you up yet?"
"Wassa, vassa muzzzi! Ivassnagartch!"
Regaining control of his vocal, and shaking his head slightly Boirin stares at Maelut for a moment. Making sure his still there he says,
"M-mmmaelut, hasvn't zeen yuse in awhilez. I heard you was off adventuring. Sorry you woke me, I must have fallen asleep on my shift.
As he speaks his voice becomes more normal. He looks over Weadly is standing behind the bar as well. The man smiles, rolls his eyes and walks away. Boirin looks slightly confused.
"I guess I went to sleep at the bar, funny I don't rememberer putting my head down."
Seeming to finally get all of the events in order he looks at the chef.
"Its good to see you. But um where have you been? Um wheres my clothes too, I'd kinda like those back. I can get them sewed back up but, I need them back first."
"Boirin...you look well. A little worn, perhaps, but well. I'm afraid I can't help you out with the clothes, that's something I'd suggest you deal with yourself."
Sympathizing with his friend's plight, Maelut takes the iron kettle and pours some steaming water into a clean mug. To this, he adds a small handfull of pungent herbs, a drop of honey, and a tiny wedge of sour fruit.
"My father called this Bittersweet Waketea. It'll get you up, and you look like you need the help. What have you been doing, anyway?"
"Yesterday I got up early off my night shift and went bowling. I was really tired last night, and I had a couple drinks. I guess I fell asleep."
"Lucky for me it seems Weadly took over, though he didn't move me."
He seems to smell himself for the first time.
"Um I'll be right back."
He hurrys up to his room quickly washes his face and chest, changes into a different set of clothes and comes back down. When he comes down he looks even more embarrassed, but smelling slightly better.
"Sorry about that its just, I guess I was pretty beat yesterday. What did you need."
He says drinking his tea.
"I found this in the lair of a demon lurking in the woods outside of town. Between my strength and the help of a half-orc called Gilgiga, we couldn't force it open. You told me when we first met that you have some skills dealing with inconveniently locked things, perhaps you could open it? A word of caution, though: it may still have some venom from the imp somewhere on it. The poison nearly paralyzed me when we killed it, so be careful."
Muttering curses about foul creatures and poison, Maelut trails off, waiting for Boirin's response.
[OoC:Search +10, if he finds a trap disable it, if he doesn't open lock both skills at +11]
He has the lock open quickily.
Upon opening the chest, he finds it full of gold coins and an amulet.
(Total coins is 376)
"Uh..I...um...the...it...er...yeah. Wow."
His eyes wide, the chef picks up the amulet and scrutinizes it. Remembering stories about jewelry with special powers, Maelut analyzes the amulet in the same way he did with the vials.
[Detect magic + spellcraft check for aura school]
"Thank you, Boirin. I am quite grateful for this, as you can imagine."
Boirin quietly watches Maelut as he examines the amulet.
"This is magical, there's no doubt. I ought to have someone who knows more about this sort of things take a look at it."
Maelut puts the amulet into his pocket, and counts out the gold in the chest. He offers 6 gold pieces to Boirin, not wanting to make his friend feel that his services were unappreciated.
"I need to speak with Codrian about this amulet, and I should split the rest of the gold between Renna, Scylla, Gilgiga and myself. Please watch the kitchen for me, I'll be back later today."
[Exit to Natala's Shop]
He walks over to the door and Grack lets him in. Taking out his theif's tools he quickly disarms the trap on the trap door and heads down.
Once in the secret room he sets himself to unlocking as many of the locks as he can. The first four he unlocks without difficulty. The fifth lock he gets really lucky on and unlocks it on the first try. The sixth lock is the same. 7th lock he can't unlock his first try, the second try is the same, the third try he gets it open. 8th lock he gets on the second try. The 9th lock he can't rush, when he slows down and takes his time he gets it. The final lock, and old big thing , perplexes Boirin for almost 5 minutes before he unlocks it. Boirin spends about an hour practicing with the 6th and 7th locks for awhile, with mixed results. After about and hour he heads back up to the office and then goes back into the inn.
[Exit to Church]
The door creaks reluctantly open, and Maelut enters into a mostly-empty Inn. He heads to the back and begins to return to his normal duties. The last of the imp's venom still working its way through his hands, they stiffen and become sore as the cook continues with his work. For many days, Maelut spends his time quietly working and exercising, working the venom out through hard work and a relentless obsession over his cooking.
Once he feels back up to his original strength, Maelut starts to experiment with the Mother's Soul Grass. The first day, he does nothing but carefully examine and test a single blade. Five pages in his recipe book become dedicated to this pursuit, containing detailed sketches and descriptions of every physical aspect that Maelut can discern. The next day, he begins experimenting with the grass. He prepares a small cup of boiling water, and uses that to steep out the essence of a small part of the blade. Using his magic, the chef also cools a small cup of water and examines the way the herb responds to cold conditions. It is baked, fried, stewed and mashed, all the time with Maelut tasting and testing it.
The third day marks the beginning of his experiments with actual recipies. He first cooks the bread as described by Marroc, keeping careful logs of the component parts and the way the act when combined. Once the bread is finished, Maelut selects a small slice of uncooked beef and soaks it in some extracted essence of the herb. Although it becomes excruciatingly bitter, the taste can be counteracted by the addition of a small amount of lemon thyme and oil inserted into the meat's center before cooking commences. The uncooked meat stays edible without any particular effort for over four days, and the smoked meat shows no sign of going bad even after a week. Maelut begins to get more and more excited, the potential of this herb becoming readily aparrent. Although the flavour is harshly bitter at times, the prospect of such a potent, if not palatable, preservative is passionately pursued by the perpetually fascinated chef.
"Wealdy, if anyone needs me, I'll be out in the stables. Washing day...it only comes but once a month."
Maelut unpacks the items from his backpack, laying them out on several bales of fresh straw. The morning air still has a crisply cool cut, and he finds himself full of energy and adventurous curiousity. Originally, the plan had been to wash everything by hand. However, feeling as well as he does, Maelut decides to use his magic to do the work.
To start, he meticulously creates an invisible force to carry the clothes from bale to bale. Then he casts a minor spell, something he has used many times before, to clean each individual piece of clothing as it is brought to the bale where he sits. His hands are full of magic, and he slowly passes them over every inch of fabric, watching the stains fade and vanish beneath his palms. Deciding that there isn't enough light, Maelut casts a spell which he first used in the woods by the fiend's lair. A pitchfork hanging on the wall next to him begins to glow with an unearthly light. The room almost palpably swims with magic, and Maelut feels himself giddy with the energies pulsing through his veins. He uses the last of his inner strength to give himself a special sight, something with which he can admire the effects he has set in motion around him.
The chef sits, silent and still, in the midst of his efforts. His clothes, the set that he wore while doing the work, are sweaty and cling to his body. The wet leather makes a sucking noise whenever he moves, reluctantly giving up the sticky hold it has on his exhausted flesh. Looking outside, the chef sees that the sun is rushing towards the day's midpoint. He gathers up the now-clean clothes, puts them hurriedly into his backpack, and rushes towards the door. Using the last of the same spell he used to clean his clothes, Maelut cleans the sweat out of his shirt and pants. The stable door opens, and the chef returns to his duties.
In the kitchen, Maelut washes the last pans from dinner. The beef gravy, flavoured with some unusually spicy onions, had become extremely sticky. Only after ten minutes of hard work is the cook finally satisified that the pot has been cleaned enough to go onto the crude wooden drying rack.
.o0(I really need to get some better equpiment for this kitchen. But nobody around here really makes decent cooking utensils, and the junk that I've been using here is going to fall apart.)
Maelut heads over to Marroc's office and knocks on the door.
"Marroc, a lot of the tools I've been working with in the kitchen are starting to fall apart. If you could spare me for a few days, I'd like to make some new tools. I'll pay for all the materials, but I'll have to use one of the braziers for the metalworking. It's not ideal, but since it's a lot cheaper than renting some time at a forge, it'll have to do."
"If ya need any 'elp, feel free ta grab Piper ta assist ya."
"Well, I can make some regular-quality stuff, enough to keep the ktichen going and replace what's broken, for about 10 gold pieces. But the really well made things, that'll cost more. I need to get some good steel from the weaponsmiths, and I'd want some high quality hardwood for the spoons instead of the soft stuff we're using at the moment. Every time you stir something, you've got to wipe it off or else it warps the spoon...it's not that way with hardwood, I'll tell you that much."
After a few calculations in his head, Maelut comes up with the figure of 50 gold pieces for a total refit of the kitchen to bring it up to gourmet standards.
"I promise you, there'll finally be good and even heat on the stove. And we can stop scraping burnt food off the pans, since the higher quality steel is much easier to clean. It'll be easy enough for everyone, including Wealdy, to use. the food will taste ten times better than it does at the moment, and I could have the whole thing ready to use inside of a week."
[OoC: Price and time are for crafting Masterwork Cooking Tools]
"If ya want to fancier otems, yer gunna 'afta foot that yerself,"
"Ok, I'll see how my funds are doing. Either way, the kitchen will certainly end up in better shape than it is at the moment. G'night Marroc."
After the brief conversation, Maelut departs Marroc's office and heads upstairs to bed. As he lies in his room, the freshly cleaned sheets remind him of the day's exertions. A sense of utter exhaustion begins to creep over him, as he realizes that he cannot manage to cast even the weakest of his spells, having completely exhausted his inner reserves during the cleaning.
"A day of washing, and I have no magic left. That's just silly, I need to start getting these skills into better shape. Once I get this set of tools done, I'm going to head over to the Hightower and see if they can recommend some exercises for improving my abilities."
[Exit to Market Square]
Maelut returns just before lunch, and puts his backpack into the stable while he prepares the midday meal. As he slices some meat, the knife handle slips out of his hand and clatters to the ground, shattering into several pieces.
.o0(I'll be glad to have some better equipment in here. There's no love lost between me and these old rubbishy things.)
Taking a final look at the old kitchen, Maelut heads out into the stable to begin his work. First, he piles some coal into a small brazier, hoping to get it hot enough to work the metal ingots. Unfortunately, despite nearly an hour of trying, the brazier simply can't acheive the kind of temperatures needed to melt the steel. Maelut shakes his head, and then gathers up all the tools and walks to a nearby blacksmith. Paying the shopkeeper for two days worth of forge time, Maelut sets up his tools and materials once again.
This time, he decides to make life easier by using the magical skills he was working on yesterday. With a few gestures and murmured phrases, Maelut conjures an invisible force to carry the items he makes, to prevent his own hands from being burnt. Then, using a simple spell, he cools down a small bucket of water to as cold a temperature as he can manage. Using another conjured force to power the forge by continually pumping the bellows, Maelut melts one of the ingots into a molten stream of metallic liquid. Using the old pans as molds, he has the other magical servant pour the metal into them little by little, with Maelut swirling the pans around to coat the inside surface. When the pan has a quarter-inch of coating all on the inside, Maelut takes it away from the heat and dips it in the cold water quickly, seperating the new steel pan from the old one. With a quick strike to the old pan's base, the new one comes tumbling out, still hot to the touch.
Using his new tools, Maelut smooths the inside and outside of each pan and files down the edges to make them smooth and even. Melting down the steel filings, he makes rivets for the pot and utensil handles. The new wood proves extremely easy to carve, and he easily makes the handles, spoons and spatulas with a minimum of wasted wood. Everything goes very quickly, and Maelut finds dinner fast approaching. He leaves everything on the forge's cooling racks, and sets it so that he can make the final adjustments in the morning. The cook takes his backpack back with him to Nobody's, and places the artisan's tools in a kitchen cabinet. Reluctantly returning to the shoddy tools of the kitchen, Maelut makes dinner, and then heads off to sleep.
The next day, Maelut finishes his work, again using the aid of his magical constructs to make his life easier. At one point, he creates a glowing saucepan for no reason other than to thoroughly check it for imperfections. By the end of the day, Maelut is satisfied with his work, and returns to Nobody's with the new pans carried behind him by the invisible assistants he created.
.oO(Well I have no problem with cheap, but this is a little ,ore then cheap, plain unfriendly is more like it.)
*Moves over next to Billa, stopping about 5 feet away from from her as to not tower over here. (not something the short man is used to) The gnome stops whiping the table and glares at Jace*
"What is it you want?"
"I need a place to stay."
"How does this concern me?"
"Well I was hoping to stay here."
"You want the floor or straw?"
"Straw as long as it isn't in the stables." .oO(if you have stables)
"5 silvers."
"How much is dinner?"
"Four."
*Jace pays the grouchy woman 9 peices, and sits himself at a table away from the Gnomes wrath. Eats his meal while speaking with maluet. After the conversation, he goes up to bed....straw*
.oO(I don't want to stay here long)
*With that thought Jace goes to sleep. In the morning he leaves without breakfast to deal with the day.*
to the SSAG
.o0(She's still sulking over that bruise she got from arm-wrestling Grack...can't imagine why she provoked him like that. Everyone knows he's very sensitive about his delicate stomach, and only a fool or a mad gnome would tease him about it while arm-wrestling.)
The cook gathers up some dinner for the visitor, and brings it out to his table.
"Good evening, sir. My apologies for Billa's behaviour, she's...having a bad day. My name is Maelut, the cook for this establishment."
Indicating the Inn with his hands, Maelut realizes that it isn't quite an...establishment...so much as a rather low-quality inn.
"Well, it's a job anyhow. Would you mind if I joined you here? It's always nice to meet a new face."
.oO(mmm the cook. Seems to be freindly. We shall see.)
"Yes please sit. I would be happy to speak with you."
"My name is Jace, I have been traveling far...that is more then likely the normal, begining of any new comers story here is it not. I am currently looking for some employment, and hopefuly a better place to sleep then on a pile of hay."
.oO(this sword is digging into my side.)
"One moment."
*Removes the bastard sword from his side and sets it and its scabbard on the floor, Furros his eyebrows shakes his head and with a second thought props the weapon up against the side of the table so he can keep a eye on it.*
.oO(Don't trust this place completly.)
*turns his attention back to Maelut*
"How about you, what is your story and a little history around this place. You seem to have yourself set well into place, any tips for the new face?"
"A word of advice: He's a mite touchy about people waving weapons about. I wouldn't be making any sudden movements near that blade of yours."
Maelut thinks back to his own journeys, and the things that brought him to Garic's.
"I used to be a cook at my parent's inn. Perhaps you've heard of it, it's known as "The Traveller's Friend" in the village of Sorat-Arlon."
He pauses a moment, but seeing no immediate reaction he continues.
"Anyway, I worked there through several years of trouble with kobolds. Eventually, after one rather large skirmish, I decided that it was getting time for me to move on. I packed up, and decided to see if I could find a respectable job in the city. And...well...here I am."
A shrug, a whistful grin, and a sigh.
"Nobody's isn't one of the city's long-term inns. If you want a place to live, I'd suggest one of the boarding houses. Of course, if you get a job with the city guards, the SSAG, or the temples, they might offer you some accomadation, or at least will help you with living expenses. What is it exactly that you do?"
.oO(mmm.....another not so friendly inhabatent)
"I used to be a city gaurd in my old home, but It held no instrest for me....I was in a fairly small city so there was little to do. I also liked to go out away from the city so I do not wish to join the gaurds for they are bound to be....similar in action. I don't dance or sing, I have not the skill required for either. I don't have what you would call a craft. about the only things I can do is fight and be...well....quiet." I have been to the adventures guild, the man seemed freindly, I did not concider the temples, but the man at the SSAG mentioned the Jackles. Who are they, what do they do. I am also concidering the SSAG, but I don't know what they do and their reputation.if you could enlighten me I would be very pleased.....oh yes what can you tell me of Sir Gamis, and his partner, or as it seems student."
From the kitchen, the sound of gnomish vulgarity followed by a clatter of pans stirking the floor reaches Maelut's ears. He quickly rises, concerned about what Billa may have done to his precious new pots and pans.
"Please excuse me, there are things that need my attention. It was a pleasure to meet you, sir. You're welcome back any time."
The cook hurries back into the kitchen, and can be heard muttering a variety of elven vulgarities as he casts several spells to aid in his cleaning efforts.
After breakfast, Maelut spends the better portion of an hour cleaning his knives, and repairing some minor rips and tears on his clothes. The holes from his encounter with the dire goat prove somewhat difficult to repair, and the end result is a jagged seam stretching across the cloak like an old battle scar.
.o0(It's appropriate, if not entirely fashionable.)
Having spent the entire morning indoors, Maelut decides to seek out some fresh air. With his freshly-cleaned knives strapped to his belt, and all his other gear locked safely in his room, the cook heads out onto the streets to see what the city is doing.
[Exit to Elsewhere]
He then takes a seat at the bar and orders an ale. Wattered down perhaps, but better tasteing then the stuff back at the church.
Gilgiga dosen't start any conversatons with others about, but does keep his eyes open. He's found that in a place like this (expecaly this place) important things can happen when you blink.
Maelut comes in late, returning from his enjoyable evening with Esmet and Mrs. Weatherby. Taking one of the non-watered bottes of wine from the rack, he pours himself a tall glass of a decent white, using some of his magic to cool it down to a respectable chilled temperature.
As he sits in the corner of the dining room, writing some notes in his recipe book, Maelut thinks back to the unusual woman he met in the boarding house. A large sword and a quiet demeanor.
.o0(I wonder how she came to carry such a weapon...)
After he finishes the wine, Maelut heads upstairs and quickly falls asleep on his bed, a deep and dreamless sleep.
The next morning
Waking early, Maelut prepares breakfast as usual. A lack of eggs forces him to prepare extra potatoes and to set out a small block of cheese that he had been planning to save for lunch. While he sits chopping some vegetables, he hands Wealdy a couple of silvers, and asks him to nip off to the market and fetch a few dozen eggs.
In the early afternoon, a half-orc wanders in. Not just any, but Gilgiga, the cleric from his travels through the woods.
"Gilgiga, over here! Some ale? Yes, of course. Here, enjoy. How are you, my friend?"
He says handing him the copper.
"Doing well, I have the day off from old Doc. I think he is impressed with my method of getting rid of weeds."
"Indeed? Well, that's good to hear. You certainly didn't strike me as the gardening type, but whatever you're good at, you have to go with. How have things been for you? Any gossip around the Temple?"
He says slowly sipping his ale.
"Yes...I've met the little monsters. Went goblin hunting with them in the woods outside of town. It was a nightmare, they ended up being captured; made more trouble than they ever could have repaired."
Picking up his now-empty mug of cider and making his way back into the kitchen, Maelut continues the conversation through the open door.
"So tell me, what plans have you?"
"Thats for certain sure. Had to pull em out of it."
"And wondering if I'd regain the feeling in my toes."
I still haven't had the time to aquaint myself with the enviroment around the city, just the Temple Gardens."
Maelut washes up one of the mugs and tosses it over his head to Boirin.
"Catch!"
The cook laughs at Boirin's surprised face.
"Anyway, Boirin, what news can you share? I haven't seen you much about."
"News? The only news I get is from the people who come into the bar to get puking drunk."
"For awhile I was working nights and never saw anyone but diehard drinkers, so that might be it. Weadly and I switched though so, now I work days. We just must not have run into each other lately."
"Anyways you've been adventurin' more recently than I. Its been nearly 7 weeks for me, I might have to go down to the guild and see if there are any jobs."
"Wealdy's lack of coordination hasn't rubbed off on you. And I just got done remodelling the kitchen, it kept me busy most of the time. Probably explains why we haven't run into each other."
Looking around the bar, Maelut drops his voice a little.
"Gilgiga and I killed an imp in the woods, as you know. It made me wonder, though...what else is out there? I'm sure your guild might be interested in a commission like that. Of course, maybe it's nothing, and the imp just ended up there on his own."
Too tired to sweep out the kitchen, Maelut concentrates his magical energies on a spell which picks up a broom and begins to sweep out the kitchen and bar area towards the back door. Turning his attention back to the others, he stretches his arms.
"Boirin, I haven't seen Angelique for quite some time. I fear she may have left the city without telling me, or has otherwise disappeared completely. I shall miss her..."
A few minutes later the big half orc and the old halfling exit. Marroc waves Maelut over.
"Oim pretty sure Oi 've mentioned ta ya there aint no spell flingin in moi inn, me boyo."
"Oim willin ta over loik that in the kitchen on account Oi really enjoy yer cookin, and none o'the customers cin see ya back there."
"But if Oi 'ear that yer flingin in front o'the customers again, Oim gunna 'ave no choice but ta let ya go me boyo."
"As much as Oi appreciate yer cookin and the extra customers it brings in, if the regulars see ya castin out here they moight foind a new place ta spend their coin."
"A lot o 'people coime here becauses they know Oi donna allow spell flingin, an theres a lot o'spells that cin be used ta spy on others. They donna 'ave ta worry about that 'ere. "
"An neither da Oi."
Marroc pours himself a drink.
"If yer too tired ta sweep, just leave the mess there. It's not loik it'll go anywhere if ya can't get to it fer a week or two."
"Besides, it fits the decor."
Marroc takes a big swig of his drink and then heads back into his office.
"If anyone asks fer me, tell them Oim busy."
He stops to top of his ale, and then slips into his office.
"You'd think they wouldn't mind a little useful magic...it's not like anyone's going to get hurt by a broom."
"Remeber a few days back when it seemed the news ground to a halt. We'll no news was good news, I just got notice of a band of orcs. None to large, just about the size of a rading party. What do you say we go and give them the message to move on from here?"
"Orcs? Here? Yes we don't want a raiding party around here... it would not be good. I will come if there are orcs to be killed. It is never good when they are raiding."
*Well if he had ears that would prick up, they would have.
The best sheild is that witch the mother herself provides us with."
"I haven't any experience in stalking...but my magic has been improving. A new spell, one equal in power to the healing but more aggressive in its nature, has begun to manifest. My fighting skills are stronger too. If you'd like an extra hand, my knives are always sharpened."
The key here will be to disrupt what little organization they have."
"I think chaos is about the best way to describe it. It'll take their feet right out from under them, the ground will be slicker than a frying pan in an oil cask."
.oO(Yes, Orcs! Finally I can get something back, if only I keep them away from here... damn, I hate them so much... all of them...)
"Oil? Is this stuff flamable? If it is I think I have an idea."
.oO(mmm friendly conversation)
"Hello Maelut how have you been?
*moves to sit at the bar near to Maelut*
.oO(I'm such a idiot, I don't even know what he looks like yet I'm lookin fer him.......)
*Aramil shakes his head and looks around to see if he knows anyone else in the inn so that they might be able to tell him who Jace is. He soon spots Maelut at the bar talking to someone, so he strolls up to the bar and sits down next to Maelut and Jace (even though he does not recognize it is Jace) and waits for their conversation to be done.
"Jace, you seem a tad worse for wear. Can I offer you a bit of stew? There's still some left, despite Grack's ferocious assault."
"Ah food would be wonderful.... havn't eaten all day...to busy getting munched on by the the preists of Thalos"
*Is listening intently to talk of strategies of killing orcs. but doesn't speak. but when a strange dwarf comes in and sits near Jace looks over to the new commer.*
.oO(mmm a dwarf....I could use some practice in my dwarvish.)
[Dwarf]Good day to you.[/Dwarf]
"Well met ter ye, I hoping that you could help me here. I'm lookin' fer someone that resides here, his name is Jace Cornwall and I was wonderin' if ye knew him?"
"What I may call you my dwarven friend, and what mission would you have of me?"
*A genuinly friendly glint is in Jaces eyes*
.oO(Always friendly and loyal. One reason I like and respect them so much)
"Thats a shame."
To everyone he says.
"When should we leave for this?"
He says leaving to return soon.
"Hay, Maelut, can I borrow your wetstone?"
.oO(well he looks to be a follower of the mother or I have meet the second friendly face from the church....I hope there to be more. perhaps I had the luck to get the nasty clerics we will see)
"well I'm ready...I have everything I own on my back.....Hey Maulet...could I leave, my pack in your room. its a little heavy and I don't think we will be out to long. All I have is stuff to go spelunking around in dungens and climbing."
*pulls off his back pack (back pack 2lbs, 2 bags of Caltrops 4lbs, silk rope 5lbs, 5 tourches 5lbs waterskin 4lbs) leaving his weight at 45lbs (lightload) goes to check his sword but stops, and looks at grack*
.oO(mmmm.....better not do that.)
"You may call me Aramil Dunskar, I belong ter the SSAG and I see that ye would like ter belong there aslo. Well I also noticed that ye would like te learn the tools of me trade, craftsmanship, so how about it, would ye like ter become me apprentice after yer little adventure? I would like an extra pair of hands around the forge every once in a while. I'll be at the SSAG when ye decide."
*With that Aramil gets up and bows to Jace then he makes his way out of the inn and towards the SSAG to begin his mornings work.
.oO(Seems like a nice feller, I hope he takes up my offer.)
[Exit to Beyond the Walls]
*Puts his pack back on*
"Maulet I'm gonna pick up some rations I will see you outside of the gate."
market square
[to Beyond the Walls]
[from The Iron Wolf Armoury]
*Tensek walks into the bar and picks his past the tables to the bar. Sitting down he nods to Marroc.*
Any news on Anaya?
"Ya moight want ta just wroite off what ever it is she owes ya."
"Where ever she is, she doesn't wont ta be found."
Marroc shrugs. "An she's doin a real good job of it."
Thanks, but I don't intend to be stolen from and I will find her.
*Rising up Tensek turns and steps away from the bar and leaves.*
Weary, and with blood-stained clothes, Maelut enters the Inn. He staggers upstairs, the gnoll's axe-wound sending a sharp pain through his body with every step. Unlocking and opening the door to his room, he throws the backpack down with a loud crash, and collapses into his bed.
For an hour, he tosses and turns, trying to get comfortable with the axe-wound still open and painful. Eventually, he finds himself unable to sleep and busies himself cleaning off his clothes and bedsheets. Filling the bucket in his room with water from the kitchen, he tries to cast a simple spell to warm it up. But every time he raises his hands to perform the necessary motions to draw energy from the Weave, the axe wound seems to double in size and intensity. Giving up, Maelut cleans his clothes the best he can in the cold water, and spends the rest of the night in a fitful half-slumber.
The next morning, Maelut awakes, the wound still oozing with unidentifiable bodily fluids. Gathering all his strength, he manages to pour positive energy into the gash, healing it to a fraction of its original size. The other wounds close up too, and he feels better upon seeing that the injury does not appear to be infected. Standing up, he looks at the blood-spattered bedclothes, and his attire which, despite his best efforts, is still stained a ruddy crimson. Feeling stronger, Maelut weaves some spell energies to help him clean the room, and by the end of an hour things seem as clean as they ever were. No cleaner than the rest of Nobody's, perhaps, but still clean compared to the mess he had woken up with.
Putting on a fresh set of clothes, leaving the others to dry out from the washing, Maelut heads downstairs to resume his daily cooking duties. He silently heads into the kitchen, relieved to be cutting things which don't fight back.
"Would a person called Maelut be residing here?"
From the back, the sound of iron pans thumping against wooden spoons can be heard, with the occasional interjection of a strange word which would be incomprehensible to those who didn't use magic. Smells of spices and frying foods waft out into the common room, trying to push their way through the dense cloud of smoke and stale beer.
From behind the counter, Wealdy looks up at the newcomer.
"Eh? You want something with our cook? Well, you'll have to wait. He's making dinner at the moment, and Grack gets grumpy when his belly rumbles. And on the subject, you'll get that chap mighty upset if you start waving that thing around in here. See that it stays out of everyone's way. Meantime, I'd appreciate it if you bought a drink. Loitering ain't good for business."
Codrian nods calmly.
"I'll keep it away, actually, I will put it on floor as soon as I find a table.
And a cup of wine then."
Wealdy begins to pour some wine from a jug sitting on the countertop into a mug, when Maelut comes out with a huge plate of steaming hot meat and potatoes. His arms full with the tray, he fails to notice Codrian at first. Once the tray is set down, however, he turns and immediately recognizes the gentleman sitting at the bar.
"Codrian! I haven't seen you in quite some time...I'm glad you decided to come sample the cusine. Here, sit down and I'll get you some chicken. It's fresh, I saw the bird running around only this morning, and the spices were excellent in the market. And Wealdy, don't torture him with that watery rubbish... give him some of the real stuff."
Bringing the food and wine to the table, Maelut sits down beside Codrian and takes a drink from his own mug.
"So, what brings you here?"
The half-elf sits down to one table while the cook zaps to kitchen to fetch the plate. Lowers the halberd to the floor.
"You, Maelut."
Removes his hat and tastes the chicken. Nods.
"This is good."
Codrian lifts another forkful of the food to his mouth.
"Yes, I am here because I wanted to see you. And, frankly, I am somewhat surprised to see that you've picked this corner of the city as your own."
The cook looks around and nods, his face twisted into a half-smile.
"Yes, I'll admit it isn't the most respectable of places. But Marroc's a good chap, so are Boirin and some of the regulars. They let me cook what I want, and I just got finished remodelling the kitchen."
He lowers his voice slightly before continuing.
"Marroc's a bit particular about spellcasting, doesn't like me doing it around the customers. But I can practice in my room or the stables, and I keep it honed with every meal. You know that rosemary flavour in the chicken? Made it with my own two-hands, no herbs required."
The chef sits back with his mug, smiling proudly.
"So I heard. And knowing this area, spellcasters are not too liked around here. Not that I could cast much anything in any case."
Codrian continues eating in silence for a moment.
"But, I must say that I am quite sure that you could get yourself a job from Last Lich or any of inns near the market place."
"I suppose that I could. And I've even thought about going out on my own. But to be honest, Nobody's suits me for the moment. I have heard about the Silver Swords, though, and the thought of being a cook there certainly has an appeal. But... I'm just not sure."
"I can't say anything about the guild, being not too familiar with them. But, I would say that there is probably more money and fame to be made catering to more larger population."
He takes a sip from his mug.
"Keep that in mind. But... then to why I am here. I have heard about the small adventure you had some time ago."
With a grin, Maelut quickly cracks a joke at his bad luck.
"The one where I was poisoned? Well... that's not quite specific enough."
Maelut shakes his head at the joke made in bad taste.
"I'm sorry about that...it's just that I'm rather bitter still. Which little escapade did you mean?"
"Imps have tendency to do such thing. But I presume the sting wasn't enough to drop you."
Half-elf resumes eating.
"Quite dangerous to have two young girls along, though. Good thing that nothing happened to them."
"Ah. That.
Yes, in retrospect it was quite foolhardy for me to bring the two girls along. Although to their credit, and to mine, they did end up saving all our lives."
"They didn't exaggerate much then. What I haven't yet figured out is, why were you in that forest in the first place?"
Takes a pause to chew on the food.
"Hindsight is always clearer than what you know when you are in the middle of things."
"Marroc told me about this herb, Mother's Soul Grass, which you can use to keep some food from going bad. It's horribly bitter, as I've found out, but it's still a useful thing to know about. In any case, I spoke to Dorian, my friend in the Market, who told me that there aren't a whole lot of places that stock it, being as it's not used for very much. Ard'Nas from the Church told me where it was, and asked me to take the two girls along with me."
The cook pauses for a second, finally taking a breath.
"As for Gilgiga, we met him in the woods. He was looking for the same thing I was, although he needed it for the Temple."
"Ard'Nas... I can now see why the girls were with you. Ard'Nas seems to be hating everyone person with equal measure."
A pause.
"What do churches need that herb for?"
"She was an... interesting person. Seems very devoted to her plants."
Maelut winces at the thought of her voice, harsher than chewing on raw Mother's Soul Grass.
"I believe Gilgiga said something about making incense. You'd have to ask him to be sure. Personally, I never quite understand the purpose of all the different incenses. Do the gods really care if a certain stick doesn't smell a certain way?"
"Ah... incences, they can be actually used for two purposes, at least. Another one is that of burning them at places of worship, and you'd have to ask from them up in the skies do they care about the smell."
Finishes the chicken and takes a sip from the mug.
"Different kind of incenses are sometimes used as part of some spell. In those having particular kind is important as it depends on how the caster has everything formed in his mind. Would that answer your question?"
"I suppose so. I still have trouble understanding the priests, since they could get their powers just as easily from books like the hightower does. Or they could learn it naturally like me. I guess there must be some other reason for their prayers."
Remebering his conversation with the girls, Maelut turns on a slightly different tack.
"Where do you fit into all this, anyway? You don't sound like a friend of Ard'Nas, and the girls referred to you when I asked them about
splitting up the treasure. Are you their older brother or something?
"Ah... you see, your power and that of mages is a product of sheer willpower to bend our perceived reality to fit your needs. You convey the want through words, gestures, and whatnot. Whereas, priests... they depend on their chosen deity to give them power to alter the reality to fit their needs. Prayers are used to ask those services from gods."
Codrian pauses to sip from his mug.
"Renna and Scylla... how would I put it... I am more or less Renna's caretaker, father-figure, or whatever you wish to call it. Thus, I am interested in what they do and how they are."
"But doesn't that limit their power, since they can only do what their deities permit? Whereas I am free to cast spells for any purpose, it would seem that they have willingly limited themselves in what they can accomplish. Of course, I suppose that they have access to powerful energies, since the gods undoubtedly can provide great strength."
.o0(Hmm...this is straying into the realm of philosophy. I remember Marroc saying something about Grack not liking this subject.)
Pausing, Maelut decides to move the conversation forwards.
"I came across a wand while I was hunting some orcs recently. It was on the body of a gnoll we subdued after quite a bit of effort. Perhaps I could bring it by the shop to have you work out what it does?"
The half-elf notices that Maelut changes the subject quite abruptly, but doesn't comment on it.
"A wand? Yes, I can take a look at it. Just drop it off at the shop, and I'll see what's it's function and so on. And of course, you are free to come there to talk any time you like."
"Thank you, I appreciate the help. I suppose I could just start trying to blindly use it, but I think that might lead to some nasty consequences."
Maelut lowers his voice and leans forward, keeping one eye on Grack.
"Nothing against our conversation, but Marroc has a rather strict policy about politics and philosophy. It gives Grack indigestion. Sensitive stomach, that chap, given the size of him. Can't handle anything spicier than a well-cooked onion."
"I see, and understand. It's quite common. And, I think using a wand blindly would be slightly difficult without knowing the command word that triggers it. And even then, yes, you might end up setting off an explosion or something other nasty."
"Personally, I think that his indigestion is nothing a good course of spicy peppers and double-fried meat wouldn't cure. Certainly wouldn't be pleasant for whoever had to clean up, but I think it would build up a good resistance to it. That's how my mother always dealt with us when we didn't like a particular dish, we'd have to eat it for a week solid. By the end of it, you either loved it or learned to fake it."
A shudder runs through his body as Maelut remembers his encounters with Slatter Bean and Tomato stew.
"Suppose things were different with Grack. Don't know much about his past...or yours come to think of it."
Maelut shrugs lightly and takes a long sip from his drink. Codrian shrugs as well.
"I can't say I know too much about food, with my main experiences with it being only of the kind where I put it my mout, chew it, and then swallow."
He chuckles.
"Actually, I managed to even ruin a stew made out of iron rations some time ago. That will tell you how good I am with cooking."
"Not everyone should be a great cook, otherwise I wouldn't be able to make a living."
Maelut laughs and shifts slightly in his seat, noticing his companion's tactful avoidance of the implicit question of his past.
"Well, I suppose I should probably get back to the kitchen. There's still quite a bit of work to do before I'm done for the day."
Nods.
"Yes, of course, I don't want to hold you from doing your work. So, feel free to drop off that wand anytime you feel like doing it. I'll be at there mostly during mornings."
"I'll bring it by tomorrow, then. Very good to see you around here, come on by whenever you want. Although you might want to leave the polearm at home next time... I'll get hell from Marroc about it."
Maelut stands, taking the two empty mugs in his hands. With a nod, he turns away and walks back towards the kitchen. Once around the door, he gathers up the remaining pots and pans and begins to wash them.
"I'll try to leave it behind next time, as these parts seem to be more calm these days. And see you later, Maelut. "
Codrian takes out a napkin from his coat pocket and wipes his mouth. Then he thinks out to Vareanin.
"Satisfied?"
Getting affirmative answer from the bird, he then thinks of home at Weatherby's so that the nutcracker will know where he is headed. The half-elf then stands up and gathers his halberd from the floor. He nods to Wealdy and leaves the inn.
[To NMS]
It is late into the afternoon before Maelut returns. He enters through the front door, coughing as he walks into a heavy bank of smoke. Looking for the origin, he sees a short and well-fed gentleman with an incongruously large pipe. The smoker's tool shares the same yellowed black as his hair and beard, and he glares drunkenly in Maelut's direction.
"Shut the door, ya fool. You be letting all manna' of frash air get in."
With a shake of his head, Maelut obligingly closes the door and puts his things back upstairs in his room. He hangs the chain shirt next to his leather armour, and returns downstairs to begin cooking dinner. From the kitchen, Maelut can hear the smoker mumbling a mix of curses and stories as the bearded man nurses his drink.
He quickly sets down this things and walks slowly to a place he heard of that would heal him for free because of his guild membership. He makes sure he has his pin on the way out.
[to Natala's Mystic Store]
*Jace drags his self over to the bar through the substantual smoke, and sniffs the air...and gives a weak smile.*
"Back to his old self." spoken to hiself
*Jace orders Ale and Dinner from The grouchy Gnome, also a message to Maulet that he is here. The Gnome looks as if she was going to bit his head off form asking of the message but she changes her mind when she sees how badly hurt Jace is.*
.oO(well I guess pain does has its advantages....The possesed gnome doesn't act like a demionite)
Flexing his arms, Maelut involuntarily winces as he lifts a large stew pot into one of the recently constructed shelves that line the kitchen's back wall. A small cut which he hadn't noticed before begins to bleed, and the cook quickly grabs some dried herbs and a length of cloth and wraps it around the injury. As he finishes, he hears a screech from the door to the main room.
"Oi, Maelut. There's someone out here wot want to see you."
"Thanks Billa, I'll come on out."
Tossing the washrag into the sink, Maelut walks out, to see his companion Jace sitting at the bar.
"Jace, how have things been?"
*Winces as The Gnomes voice screaches at maulet. But brightens up when he sees the friendly cook. Jace is clean shaven at the moment but there is a shadow creaping up on him. His wounds are still craking badly and there is a mild infection taking over. So he looks a little worn out.*
"Hi Maulet..I was just comming by to say hi and if you could help me out with something. My wounds from the orcs took on a mild infection. I was wondering if you have any herbs that would help out?"
*Jace takes a little Ale form his Tankard.*
"Your skin is a little damp, and you do feel a bit hot. Can't say that I'd know much about the sort of infection, but it's probably what comes from fighting beasts with dirty blades. From now on, you ought to ask them if they can clean off their axes beforehand."
A grin crosses his face as the cook imagines sitting down to a civilized conversation with the orcs.
"Anyway, I can give you some herbs that ought to help things settle down."
From his belt, Maelut takes a well-battered spice pouch. The leather sides are stained with all manner of grease, but the top is clearly well sealed against moisture. From inside it, he takes out a long sprig of a dried leafy green herb and hands it to Jace.
"Mix that with some boiling water and lemon, and soak a rag in it. Hold the rag on the wound, and it ought to help things clear up. It's the same thing my mother used to do for me when I tripped over the dirty garden tools and hurt my legs."
"Your a good man, If I am ever in a position to help you I hope you will not forget that you have a friend in me. but I am sure you hear that a lot...with your cooking and all. Here...take this for the Herbs."
*Jace pulls out two silvers and hands them to the cook.*
"And taking me on a great fight and getting me back alive....well I am going to learn how to forge tommorow, I am staying at Weatherbys, but I will pop in once in a while."
*leaves for weatherbys*
"Thank you. Anyone who can appreciate help is always welcome, as far as I'm concerned. Take care of yourself, and try to avoid orcs for a while. And be sure to give my best to Mrs. Weatherby."
Once Jace leaves, Maelut places his spice pouch back on its well-worn beltloop and returns to his duties.
With the meat cooking, Maelut walks over to slice some bread for the early risers. As he moves, the strap on his apron catches the pan handle, tipping it onto the floor, the scalding grease spitting a little onto his right hand as he tries to catch the falling pan.
"Mother's bells! Blasted apron straps, I never should have made them so long."
Looking at his hands, Maelut realizes it will blister and scar if he doesn't take care of it quickly. Rushing over to the sink, he dunks his hand into a large pail of clean, cold water. A sharp pain goes through his hand, and he realizes that he won't be able to cook for the rest of the day like this.
He closes his eyes, and takes two deep breaths to regain his composure. With measured effort, Maelut tries to channel some healing energies into his hand, speaking in carefully measured syllables to draw out the magic. The spell, one which would normally take only a few moments, takes a good minute before Maelut is confident it has done its work.
With a soapy cloth, Maelut cleans up the mess on the floor and places more bacon onto the stove to cook. As he works, the cook chastises himself for trying to do tricks with the pans while he was tired.
.o0(Best way to hurt yourself is to act stupid in the morning.)
An hour later...
His hand still red from the morning's escapades, Maelut sits in the common room with a mug of warm cider. As he drinks, his thoughts go back to the conversation with Codrian. The Silver Swords Adventuring Guild. The cook has been in the city for months, but never visited the guild.
.o0(Why not go to visit them? Couldn't hurt, after all. And if I ever want to get my own restauraunt, perhaps it would be a good idea to establish some more...reputable...connections.)
Leaving his cider half-finished, Maelut stands and walks out of the door in the direction of the SSAG.
[Exit to SSAG]
.oO(This majickal healing certainly is faster than waiting...)
He remembers he needs to pay the adventurer's guild, so grabbing the suits of leather armor he heads to the adventurer's guild.
[To SSAG]
"Whats the special occasion Maelut? Angy back in town?"
"I wish. But something almost as exciting has come up..."
[i]He pauses to catch the sausage with the pan, carefully aiming it so that the grease splatters onto the nearby frying eggs.
"I'm going on an excursion with a few people, something about deserts and alternate planes of existence. Imagine all the recipes I'll pick up!"
The cook looks contentedly at the eggs as they sizzle on the broad stove.
"That's a great trick, learned it from my dad. If you drizzle a bit of meat grease onto the eggs, they get this wonderful caramelization on the top and taste ten times as good."
"I don't know how long I'll be gone for. I've got a note here which I wrote for Marroc to let him know. I haven't seen him around these last couple days."
Marroc moves behind the bar and grabs a somewhat clean towel and presses it against his wound. He motions at Boirin. "Boirin me boyo. Oi've got a task fer ya ta do fer me."
"Whats up boss?"
Marroc pulls a bag of coins out from his vest. "'ave ya ever met a fellow goes boi the naime o' Tensek Vicar?"
"Oi need ya ta deliver soimthin fer me."
Marroc pulls a bag of coins out from his vest. "'ave ya ever met a fellow goes boi the naime o' Tensek Vicar?"
"No, where can I find him?"
Marroc hands Boirin the sack of coins. "'e did a job fer me awhoile ago, an Oi promised ta foind spomone fer 'im oo 'ad this."
"Oi did."
Marroc shrugs. "' moight 'ave a room at Ol4e Weatherbs. That place seems ta attract the outdoors toipes fr soime reason."
"Sure Marroc, I'll go out and look for him."
[to Elsewhere]
"Good morning, Codrian. Good morning, Threfdil. Here's a breakfast that'll start us off on the right foot. If you can eat half of that, I'll give you twice as much again. My parents always taught me to start a trip off with a good meal, otherwise you'll never make it through."
"Incidentally, do either of you know how much time we'll be spending in the desert? I have a mule I thought I'd bring, but I don't know how well he'll do in the desert."
double-post.]Starts eating the breakfast and lets Threfdil to answer Maelut's questions as the halfling knows the most about the journey.
Thref starts eating, while thinking over the answer.
"Oi don' really know 'ow long we'll be in the desert. Oi 'ave ta foind a man there oo'll tell me where 'Onor is...but Oi'll...we'll 'ave ta do somethin' fer 'im in return. That's really all Oi know roight now."
It might be useful for us to know a bit about the place we're going now... the desert. I talked yesterday with one person from that region and got some useful bits of information.
Keeps a small pause to make sure that others are listening.
Okay, then.
The desert. It's not a desert like most people vision a desert as, this place... there is no endless expanses of sand. Instead... it's more of barren land, with stone, gravel and hard-packed earth. Marred with scraggy tors and sudden crags and ravines. In many places different kinds of cacti and shrubs sprout up in patches.
Days can be still hot and nights absolutely freezing, but not like in sand desert. Dangers are somewhat different, no sandstorms and such. Instead, quite surprisingly, a lightningstorms can build up in couple of hours and bring down huge amounts of water... which in turn results that one of worst dangers out there is to be catched by a flashflood.
Some nomadic people are living out there in the desert, most of them should be benevolent but it is possible that we will face unfriendly clans or families guarding wells and ponds. Of monsters and like I don't know too much, just that ravines and some thick cacti and bush croppings are most likely lairs for any creatures in those parts.
After shoveling a forkful of tomatoes and toast into his mouth and swallowing it down, the cook continues.
"I probably won't want to be wearing my armour the whole time either. It'll get terribly uncomfortable in the desert, and we'll definitely need to be careful about getting overheated. Codrian, is there anything you could do with your spells that might be able to help us with the journey while we're in the desert?"
Thref takes another bite.
"Oi wonder what is keepin' Tagg?"
For the time being, memorized spells are Create Water and Endure Elements.
Tagg eventually arrives at the inn. Nudging open the door with his foot, he enters and drops a couple bags of feed on the floor in the corner.
"Hi, everyone... hope you haven't been waiting for me too long."
He takes a seat at the table with the others, looking down at his plate of food.
"Hmm... smells good!"
He immediately starts to pick at the eggs.
So... *swallow* What's going on?"
Clearing up the kitchen, and leaving a note for Marroc explaining his departure, Maelut follows the others as they ehad out the door and off towards the desert.
.oO(Thalos, guide me on this journey I am starting. I ask you, look upon us with benevolence and allow us to be lucky. Harsh environment awaits us, filled with dangers yet unknown. With your favor, we will succeed. Praised be Lord Thalos.)
Minto strolls into Nobody's and orders an two ales from Marroc.
"And make it the good stuff. I'm expecting Brodda to be here soon. We've got a long journey ahead of us so we'll need to get a week or so of drinking done while we can."
Marroc nods and fills two mugs full of the goodstuff. "Than ya'll be wointin the good stuff then. 'ere ya go me boyo."
Minto takes the mugs and hands over a few coins. "Thank you very much Marroc."
"She should be here anytime."
She closes the door behind her softly and looks around the room. Finding Minto, she joins him at the bar. She greets Marroc first as she takes Minto's arm.
"Helloo Marrroc. It's been a little while. Business still good?
"Not in the monetary sense moind ya, just in the broightin up moi day sort o'way."
"Wot 'ave ya been up too that was more important then 'elpin a mug o'ale fulfill it's loifes ambotion?"
Minto smiles. "The usual. Saving the city and helping out a friend."
Minto notes the look in her eyes and adds. "Anything else I missed?"
"Uh, noo. Savin' this city is prretty much a full-time job."
She looks at Marroc.
"Sorrry t'not have been arrroound much. Bein' herre woould've been much morre rrelaxin, Ah'm surre." She winks at the innkeeper.
She turns to Minto and says softly, "Darrlin', we need t'talk."
She picks up the mug that she presumes is hers and, giving Marroc another wink, heads to an empty table.
Minto follows after Brodda. "Is everything all right? Nothing happened at the Temple did it? We stopped the sickness right?"
He takes a seat.
"What? Oh, no, everrythin' at the Temple went fine. The Mindfirre is stopped, the victims arre rrecoverrin', and the prriests arre disposin' of the powderrr."
She sets her mug down on the table.
"Ah shoould go and see if Chandl has the wrrit forr Herrmy beforre..."
She stops before finishing the sentence, not yet ready to go there. She looks down at a carved letter in the table.
"How is Herrmy?"
"And nervous. He wants to get this done and have his family back."
"He's never really had a good family life. Just vague memories of his mother and... well Kirby."
"Can't blame him for wanting more then that can you? And his father certainly sounds like someone you'd want to spend time with."
"Minto..." she whispers, other tears breaking through her barriers, as she looks her lover in the eye and grips his hand tightly from across the table.
"Those don't look like tears of happiness for Hermy and his father."
The halfling looks her in the eye. "What's wrong?"
"Ah knoow Ah prromised t'help find Herrmy's da, but this wasn't supposed t'happen yet. He shoould have had yearrs beforre he passed on, but he's gone noow, and they sent a letterr by messengerr. Minto, he was a frriend and mentorr, and Ah'm gooin' teh miss him, but not nearrly as much as... well, and Ah woon't be able t'plan the reunion parrty, not teh mention seein' the look on Herrmy's face when he sees his da forr the firrst time!"
She takes a breath and another long drink from her mug.
"Who died?"
"I must be missing something here."
Minto moves to hold Brodda's hand again.
"I'm sure Hermy will be willing to wait to go if you need to go to the funeral."
"If anyone knows how important saying that final goodbye is, it's him."
"He'll understand. Theres no reason for you to worry."
"We'll either go with you, or wait."
"You won't have to miss anything."
"Yeh'rre so sweet, Minto. Ah knoow yeh'd be therre forr meh, except..."
She takes a deep breath as she finally manages to keep further tears at bay.
"Ah was neverr gooin' teh be herre perrmanently. In fact, Ah stayed longerr than Ah'd meant teh. Meh clan sent meh oout teh gatherr storries and songs teh brring back when Ah take overr as LorreMistrress."
She swirls the last bit of ale in the bottom of her mug, watching as little bubbles spin around. Then she lifts the mug to her lips and drains it.
"The current LorreMasterr, meh teacherr, was expected teh be arrroound forr a long, long time yet. He rreally wasn't that oold -- forr a dwarrf. But when Ah got t'the boarrdin' hoouse yesterrday, a letterr was waitin' forr meh. He's... gone. And they want meh... back. Noow. Withoout any delay."
"We need more!"
He looks back at Brodda and sighs. He takes another swig and the smiles. "Lore mistress? That sounds prestigious. And they couldn't find a better one."
The smile droopes a bit. "Could they?"
"Temporarily at least. I'm sure if you explain to them you are getting involved with stories that will become epics in a few years they'll understand."
"Ah'm afrraid not, Minto. Therre is no one else. When Ah rreturrn, Ah'll starrt trrainin' soomeone who will take overr forr meh when Ah..."
"The pooint is, therre's only me noow. The LorreMistrress orr LorreMasterr is a verry imporrtant parrt of everrythin' in the community. Ah must rreturrn quickly. It's just..."
She sighs and pauses as Billa sets two more mugs on the table with her usual sneer and sharp remark. Brodda chuckles.
"Ah'm even gooin' teh miss that."
She drinks more ale and looks very sad.
"Ah loove bein' herre. In this city, Ah mean. Therre's so much wrrongdooin' herre that just spurrs meh into do-goodin'. And those who I've come teh call frriends arre..."
She looks at Minto again and holds his hand.
He looks at his drink and then at Brodda. "I'm sure there is plenty of wrong doing you can right back at home as well."
"And I doubt you ever have problems making friends."
He takes a drink.
"It's every bards dream to have an entire city, clan, nation, listening to your every word isn't it. Singing your songs."
"Now you'll have two places like that. Here and home."
How can she stand to leave behind someone who so well understands her and what it is that binds her to her position more than mere honor? Indeed, to have her clan eager to hear her every word, note, message... what more does a bard live for?
She opens her eyes, a hint of a smile on her lips.
"When do yeh leave teh find Herrrmy seniorr?"
I'm sure Hermy can, and will wait for a few days if there is a good reason."
"And you are a good reason."
"When do you have to leave?"
She smiles a little and her eyes twinkle as she looks at him in the dim light.
"Ah was hoopin' teh spend soome quality time with yeh beforre we both head off in ourr differrent dirrections."
"I can get a room from Marroc, a few mugs of ale, and then we can... work on a few songs to remember each other by."
"I seem to recall a dwarven chant you sang our first night together that I'd love to hear again."
Minto winks.
"Ah think that might be arrranged." ;)
"And please have soome brread and cheese brrought up too. Ah haven't had the stoomach teh eat since tea with Missus Weatherrby yesterrday."
She drinks from her mug and watches Minto as he moves from the table to the bar to speak with Marroc.
Minto starts to say something, Marroc shakes his head. "Ya aint got toime ta waste askin pointless questions me boyo."
"Oi'll 'ave more sent up in an 'our or so."
"Wealdy'll leave it boi the door."
Minto shakes his head. "Thank you."
"I didn't know you could read lips."
Marroc smiles. "Oi didna 'ave too. Yer both bards. Ya aint known fer bein quiet."
"Now stop yer yappin an go say yer goodbyes."
"We cin settle the bill in the mornin."
Minto nods and grabs the tray of drinks and heads back to the table.
Wealdy will take our food up."
"Shall we go?"
Minto waits for Brodda to stand and then leads her towards the stairs.[/i]
"Is it m'imagination orr dooes Marrrroc always give us the same rroom?
She shakes her head; it doesn't matter. She closes the door behind her, the lock clicking shut. It isn't long before sounds of dwarven singing that sounds suspiciously similar to a war chant can be heard in nearby rooms.
----------------
She lies on the bed next to him, half wrapped in the sheet, tracing an imaginary line on his arm.
"That was nearly perfect." She smiles at him, gazing into his green eyes.
"How far away is your clan?"
"Once Hermy gets back with his father, I should have spare time on my hands."
"And I'm due for a vacation."
"It's aboout a two week walk. Minto, listen..."
She moves his hand to her mouth and kisses it, then caresses it as she speaks.
"When yeh coome teh visit..."
She bites her lip, knowing the answer before she asks, but still she must ask.
"...doon't leave. Stay with meh therre."
She continues looking deeply into his eyes, willing his answer to be different from the one she knows he must give.
He kisses her again. "Hermy needs me too much."
"And Garics needs Hermy."
"And so do halflings everywhere."
He props himself up on an elbow. "We don't have enough lore of our own to need a loremaster."
"At least not around here. But with Hermy... and my songs about him... we might get one yet."
"I can't pass up the oppertunity to be a part, and make history."
He sighs. "As much as I'd like too."
He smiles at her. "It seems we both have responsabilities to our people doesn't it?"
"And neither of us is the type to let people suffer."
"Especially when they'd be doomed to mediocore music if we did."
"We really should be going. Marroc will track us both down and do unspeakable things to us if you leave without having a few goodbye drinks."
He kisses her and then starts to dress. "If we don't leave now, I don't think I will ever be able too."
"Theres no sense in hurrying when you are already late afterall."
Minto pulls on his shirt and looks at Brodda.
"And I'm sure we could find ways to make ourselves very late."
"Aye, Ah coould easily coome up with morre ways teh keep yeh herre."
She sighs and sets her feet on the floor.
"But yeh'rre rright. Herrmy's waitin' forr yeh, and Ah've got teh have a few drrinks with Marrroc. Poorr guy. What will he do forr grrace and charrm with meh gone?"
She watches appreciatively as he pulls on his shirt and adjust it.
"That's a lovely shirrt on you. It drapes prroperrly overr all the rright muscley arreas. Have Ah everr told yeh that?"
"It matches your eyes perfectly."
Minto sits on the edge of the bed to watch Brodda dress, sighing occasionally. Once she is done, he takes her arm and opens the door for her. "Lets break the news to Marroc that he's going to have to repaint the place if he wants it bright now."
Running her fingers through her hair as best she can, she straightens her circlet, grabs her things and joins Minto down the stairs.
She sees Grack in his customary place and walks up to him.
"Good morrnin', Grrack. It's been such a pleasurre teh see yeh herre day afterr day. Ah'm gooin' teh miss that. Yes, yes, Ah'm leavin'. Noow doon't go gettin' all weepy on meh. Ah knoow yeh'll miss meh too."
She smiles and turns to sit at the bar.
Marroc hustles out of his office, and starts pouring. "Done a bit sooner then Oi expected. Oi didna 'ave time to wrap up yer gift."
Marroc whistles and Wealdy rolls a keg out of the kitchen. "Any guess on wot it is?"
He spoke!
"Uh, thank you, Grack."
She gives him a little smile then turns to Marroc when he appears. Her eyes pop open wide with glee. She nearly leaps over the bar to give the old halfling a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
"Marrroc! Yeh doll! That's wonderrful! Thank yeh. Thoough... hmm... Ah'll be on foot. Ah suppose Ah coould buy a small wagon teh get it home in. But its wonderrful! Marrroc, Ah'm so gooin' teh miss Nobody's. It's the brright spot in this city."
Minto gives him a look, but Marroc shrugs it off. "This place'll be a bit duller, but Oi expect Oi'll get soime word from yer 'ome sometoime."
"Feel free ta send it yerself o'course." He smiles.
"Eh, you let Marroc know, that a Mr. Blackwood has some sensistive information for his ears only if he be interested."
Keeping his face passive Darkar downs the ale in a single gulp. It takes a extreme effort to keep from making a sour face from the taste of the ale.
.oO(It seems to be watered down more than ever.)
Wealdy nods.
"I'll let him know."
The bartender knocks on the office door, and Marroc pops his head out, a bandage wrapped around it.
"Wot is it? Oi told ya not ta bother me. Oi've got a 'eadache."
Wealdy nods.
"Sorry. But theres a guy here that says he'sa got sensitive information for you. And well, you know your rule."
"Never pass up a chance ta learn soimethin. Roight. Where is he?"
Wealdy points out the stranger and Marroc hobbles over.
"Wot cin Oi do ya fer. me boyo?"
"Eh, Marroc, I have some information, that I would like to give ya, but there are too many ears around. Perhaps someplace private like a booth or the game room?"
Marroc looks at him, and then nods.
"The game room."
Once inside he turns and speaks.
"So wot 'ave ya got fer me?"
Darkar allows the image of Mr. Blackwood to drop so that he can speak more freely.
"It seems that we have a thief at the Jackal compound stealing from the armoury. The sergeant in charge is not sure who to trust. Apparently it has been happening a little bit at a time so as not to arouse curiosity until too late.
I am trying to track down the thief and catch them in the act of stealing or perhaps selling the weapons somewhere. Any information that you might hear would be useful. However my sneaking about might get me recognized. Do you have any employees that we could use as a go between, and perhaps help out a bit more?"
Marroc nods.
"That Oi do. Oi've got a bartender that seems ta be a chip of yer ol' block if ya get moi meaning. Don't go about stealin 'im from me yet though. 'es not yet as skilled as ye were, but 'e's gettin there."
"Only when and if you deem him ready. So does he have a name?"
Marroc nods.
"That 'e does. Boirin.'es out on a task fer me roight now, but 'e should be back soon."
"Well when he gets back have swing by to look me up. Right now almost everyon is a suspect in this until we can eliminate them from contention."
Concentrating he pulls back up the disguise of Mr. Blackwood.
Marroc lights up his pipe.
"Should Oi 'ave 'im ask fer Mr. Blackwood, or Sir Shadowood? It's going to be suspicious if 'e shows up at the compound either way.Maybe Oi cin set up a meetin at the Lich instead."
"Yes, the Lich would probably be better. Have him met Darkar there, I go there on the occassion to dine instead of the mess hall. It is noisy enough, and the booths have thick curtains, so we should not be overheard."
Marroc takes a puff.
"'e's also a member of the Silver Sword if ya need soimewhere even more private then that. OI 'ear ya still go there on occasion. Oi'll let ya decide that aftyer yer initaal meetin,"
Nods
"Now if ya aint got nuthin else"
He grins and winks.
"Get out o'moi inn. Oi've got a 'eadache."
"I best be letting ya get back to business now then Marroc."
He returns the wink and moves to exit the game room.
Boirin, me boyo, could Oi have a word wit' ya in me office?"
Without waiting for a responce the halfling heads into the office, Boirin seats himself and says simpyly.
"Its done boss."
Marroc, nods, takes a deep puff on his pipe and blows out a few smoke rings. "Oi've got another job fer ya me boyo."
"One more suited ta yer skills then just a delivery boy."
"Oi need ya ta 'ead ta the Last Lich an troi an 'ook up with Darkar Shadowood. 'e's the fellow 'oo 'ad yer job before ya did. An 'e needs soime 'elp with official city buisness. Onl 'e don't want it offical like if ya get moi meaning."
""e shouldn't be 'ard ta recognize. There aint too many white 'aired elves in Jackal uniforms that frequent the Last Lich."
"'e'll fill ya in on the details. On then Oi expect ya ta fill me in afterwards. Good luck me boyo. Ya do well at this, ya've got yerself an in with a 'igh rankin goverment official. Never a bad thing ta 'ave."
When Marroc is finished Boirin nods.
"Of course boss, I'll head out now. Um I might not be working for a while if I get a job with this Darkar."
With a quick nod Boirin heads out of the office heading to meat up with this Darkar.
.oO(So my business with the wolf girl is done. Now I have need of Marroc's assistance again though. It would be in my interest if I found out all I could about that hermit. He makes me curious...)
Marroc lights up his pipe to cover up the blushing. "With ya leavin there won't be anyone 'oo appreciates the good stuff around 'ere."
Minto gives him a look, but Marroc shrugs it off. "This place'll be a bit duller, but Oi expect Oi'll get soime word from yer 'ome sometoime."
"Feel free ta send it yerself o'course." He smiles.
Brodda grins
"Of courrse Ah'll wrrite. Soomeone's got t'keep yeh apprrrised of what may be headed Garrric's way frrrom that dirrection!"
She looks delightedly at the keg filled with precious Greycloak ale.
"Woould yeh mind holdin' that forr a bit? Ah need t'make arrangements t'get it home."
He lblows a ring on hios pipe. "ows the pipeweed back at yer 'ome? "
"Nearrrly as good as that coome oouta Brrannon's Rrun. Not quite, but almost. Ah prreferr halflin' pipeweed because its a tad sweeterr."
She looks at Marroc.
"Want meh t'send yeh soome?"
Her fingers intertwine with Minto's as she speaks with the barkeep.
Minto nods. "New things are nice, but I would rather keep the things I alreadt have then get new things."
"Ah'll be surre teh send some back perriodically, then. Y'can let meh knoow what yeh think."
"Well, Ah shoould be gooin'. We both shoould. Marrroc, thank yeh again. Ah'll be back forr the keg beforre too long. If, eh, yeh find yeh'rre way t'meh neighborrhood, feel frree t'drrop in, eh?"
She gives the older halfling another stunning smile before turning to Minto. She caresses his face and, tears again threatening, she holds them back.
"Same forr you especially, Minto. If yeh find yeh'rre passin' by, come and visit. We'll give yeh, along with whoeverr yeh'rre with, food and lodgin'."
Minto runs a finger down her cheek. "I will come visiting soon to get you caught up on things."
"You've helped with so much it would be a shame for you not to know how it ends."
He gives her a quick kiss.
"But mainly I'll be coming to see you."
She takes a step back and forces a smile.
"Ah'll look forrwarrd to it."
Even as her body turns to head for the door, her eyes are very reluctant to turn away. When she reaches the door, however, she opens it and steps out into the street, forcing her eyes ahead and not looking back.
"Oim sure this is 'ard enough fer 'er as is."
Minto starts to say something but is cut off. "She aint got a choice lad. Ya know that."
Marroc pours him a shot of spirits. "Lets 'ave a drink ta 'er. Wot da ya say?"
Make it a double."
*Stealing into the inn Tensek pockets the pouch of gold and makes his way to teh bar. Ordering a mug of some liquid Tensek hunches at the bar and listens to the people around him.*
.oO(So my business with the wolf girl is done. Now I have need of Marroc's assistance again though. It would be in my interest if I found out all I could about that hermit. He makes me curious...)
Marroc ambles out of his office, and nods at Tensek as he starts cleaning a dirty glass. "Oi 'ear me boyo Boirin found ya, roight?"
Marroc ambles out of his office, and nods at Tensek as he starts cleaning a dirty glass. "Oi 'ear me boyo Boirin found ya, roight?"
*Tensek nods.*
Aye he did my thanks to you. Where did you find her?
"But Oi wouldna expect ta be seein 'er anytoime soon if Oi were you."
*Tensek pauses.*
Do you know of an old man, living out in the woods. He seemed quite drunk when he confronted me. A hermit of sorts.
"Livin out in the forest narrows it a bit, bot its still not much ta go on."
"Wot about 'im da ya want ta know?"
"It still could be anyone moind ya. But Oi dunna know too many people 'oo can shoot a bow loike ole'Blackstar."[/color]
"Though with is attitude about things that got changed ta the Blackstar."
"Yer roight about 'im bein a bitt of a grump if were tolkin about the same guy."
"Came 'ere a few years ago from out west soimewhere. Elvish lands Oi think. 'e used ta spend a lot more toime in the city, gettin drunk an all."
"'e don't coime inthat much anymore."
He seemed rather drunk when I saw him.
Do you think you'd be able to gather some more information on him?
"Information don't coime cheap."
"You do a job fer me, an Oi'll do one fer you."
"An it just so 'appens Oi've got a job ya cin 'elp me with."
Marroc tilts his head towards Boirin. "My boyo, Boirin there moight 'ave need of a tracker fer soimethin 'es doin fer me."
Than it is in accordance, I will speak with Boirin immediately. Thank you once again Marroc.
*Turning his eyes to Boirin Tensek regards the man with a curt nod.*
Well you were wishing to speak with me were you not?
I shall see you promptly at dawn than.
With that Boirin goes on duty, keeping his ears open for any information.
*That morning befolre the sun rises Tensek finds himself gathering up his things and heading out into the city.*
[to ssag]
"Haven't been here for a while, I miss the atmosphere."
He plops himself down on a stool, which is more of a sign of exhaustion than anything else.
"I don't suppose you've got anything harder than an ale, eh?"
"An a few orc toipes as well, but they moight be a little stronger an a lot less drinkabler then ter askin fer."
"I think dwarven it is."
He props his head up on the counter with his arm.
"How's buisness?"
"It's been a bit slow on occasion, but Oim survivin."
"'ow is yer buisness goin?'
"I guess I'm surviving too. It's better than the alternative."
Shaking his mop of brown hair, he adds. "That has a good feeling to it. The spirits, I mean. "
The halfling pours another shot.
"Wots brings ya inta moi inn taday? Oi 'aven't seen ya in 'ere in awhoile."
"I'm not quite sure. You know how most people have hobbies? I guess I don't. I needed somewhere to be tonight."
He holds off on the last little bit of the shot.
"What do people do when they aren't trying to put food on the table?"
Marroc takes a drink of his ale.
"Soime people ne'er get that chance."
"An those that do... well thar or several toipes."
"Soime use that toime ta better themselves. An soime use that toime ta better others."
"An then thars those that just wait until they need ta eat again."
"I promised someone, I'd try to be the second type. I'm working on how to figure that out. I'm usually more of a first type though."
Finishing off his drink.
"What about you, sir?"
"Though Oi dabble in the other too options on occasion as well."
"And who doesn't like to eat."
Lucian leans back in his chair.
"I have a feeling I could learn alot by listening to you. You seem to have a good grasp of what's what."
Marroc pulls out his pipe and starts to pack it.
Lucian scratches at a spot behind his ear.
"Oi know a few fellas 'oo aint never done anythin in their loives but work an drink, but they cin spin a yarn loike nobodys buisness."
He lights his pipe. "Loike Oi said, it all depends on wot ya consider interestin."
"I guess you're right."
Rapping his fingers on his walking stick, Lucian takes in the room.
"I like it here. Feels cozy."
------
"Off for the night. Laters."
[gather info, +2 untrained.]
"Goodnight sir."
. o O (Hmm, this must be fine housing then.)
Notices the bustling gnome.
"Hi, I'd hate to bother you."
Gilla: "You just did."
Treetrip: "Oh, sorry."
Gilla: Hrmphs and goes back to waiting tables.
Treetrip: Dazedly makes his way over to the counter, finding a nicer looking man there, albeit a much taller one.
"Excuse me? How much is a room?"
Wealdy: "Silver a night." Bursts into a huge grin. "for the private rooms anyways."
Treetrip: "I'd like one of those please." fishes around in his pouch for a silver piece and hands it to the man.
Wealdy: "They're just over there, have a good night."
Treetrip: "Hey! You too." pauses "By the way, my name's Treetrip."
Wealdy: "I'm Wealdy."
Treetrip: "Thanks a bunch." Avoids the gnome woman on his way to the private rooms.
"It's gonna be a great day!"
Gathers up his clothes and dresses, slinging his backpack on and looping Danglethwack over his back.
"I'm glad to be alive."
Thinks back to the alleyway.
"A little more so than usual."
Closes the door, turns in the key to Wealdy and heads out into the city.
Marroc opens the door for Boirin to enter and then hobbles back to his comfy chair.
"Well boss, you know how I'm working with Mr..... um, Darkforest on a particular job right. Well one of the things he wants me to do is gather information, and I've never really been taught how to do that before. And I'm worried about ruining my abiltiy to ever help in one of these... ventures... again."
"So I guess what I'd like is a few tips on how to get info, without making it obvious I'm askin around, see."
"A lot o'foilk tend ta open up ta them an tell them things they wouldna tell their own mothers."
"But in yer case, that moight not be the best advise. Ye oar the bartender after all."
Marroc takes another puff.
"Keepin yer ears open, an the ale flowin moight be a good bit o'advuise for ya."
"Another bit moight be ta askin about soimethin else then wot ya want ta know. Once ya get soimeone toilkin, things tens ta slip out that weren't meant ta."
"An thars always the option o'greasin a few palms. A bit o'the shiney cin loosen up a lot o'toungues."
"Thanks, boss I'll try that out. Um thanks again. So I better just get back to work."
[i]Boirin stands up and goes back out to the bar.
_____________________________________________-
Over the next several days, Boirin starts slowly dropping a comment here and there, slowly trying to build up what might have been happening with the weapons. His first task is to look for a suspect to pressure and thats what he does, looking for someone who might be involved at the bar.
[gather info +2 untrained]
Waiving his normal water, Kywyn asks the thin bartender for an ale. In a slightly lower voice, Kywyn also asks if Marroc is around, wanting to see if his old acquaintance would be attending Hermy Sr.'s party.
"Of course Mr. Liew, he's in his office, but you'll have to ask him about a party. And I'm sorry to hear about your brother, he was a good man."
"He knows my family name and about Silis? Hm, through Silis probably," he thinks, "Guess I shouldn't be surprised since he works here with Marroc."
"Thank you. You were a friend of his? I think I've seen you before."
Boirin takes a swig from his perpetually full mug and looks around the bar.
Kywyn leans his elbow on the counter.
"I didn't catch your name."
"I didn't give it, but my name is Boirin, son of Naerin. I know yours as you know though, Kywyn Liew."
Boirin considers how well Kywyn knew his brother if he could know him better after two adventures.
He drinks from his mug and sits up slightly. Turning sideways for a moment, Kywyn takes in the crowd behind him impassively. The taste of the alcohol sitting on his tongue, Kywyn swallows again.
"Half a year, I beleive, almost since I first came to the city."
"You've been here much longer. I know since you and Marroc have had a number of conversations since my arrival."
Kywyn turns back to Boirin, "Found the city to your liking?"
"How do you like it here, your an artist arn't you, a friend of a friend got some of you work awhile ago, I haven't seen her in awhile, though."
Kywyn nods, "I've found all I need here, I think."
There is a pause as if Kywyn is searching for the next words.
"If you can't find something worthwhile where you are, it makes it just as hard anywhere else. It's easy to think if you could only go somewhere else... wait for the happiness to start."
"You are quiet the philosopher Mr Liew. It is good to know that what you want is what you have."
"That's the trick, I guess. Wanting what you've got."
Asks Kywyn after another sip, "So what did you and Silis do while you were together?"
"We went on a goblin hunt. We almost died but we managed to kill all the gobers. After that we spent some time together on severall occasions, a little boar hunt and a meal or two, but he went away one day and I never saw him again."
"I think he was one of my first friends in the city, but now he is dead."
"I hope he died with honor, fighting some evil, as all heros should wish to die."
"But he did die fighting."
"Well it is good to hear that he died a warriors death..."
He takes another long swig of ale and fills a mug for another patron who returns to his seat.
"I always forget how friendly this place really is."
"Kai..." he whispers to himself.
Kywyn turns back to the bar.
"Hey there!"
His face flushes a deep red.
.oO(He looks like he could eat me with toast!)
The theif notices the bartender's display.
"You think he knows some information Kai?"
Shooting his eyes sideways, Lucian makes his way to the bar, leaning heavily on his cane.
"Hi, could I get an ale for my friend and myself?"
"Well Mr Liew, I go off shift now, but Weadly will serve you your drinks, have a nice day."
He gets up and leaves heading towards elsewhere.
"Bye," Kywyn watches the man go on his way.
Kywyn looks to the half-elf next to him as he looks for beverages.
He utters the shadow of an old toast he has heard back in his homeland.
"Drink, for you know not whence you came, nor why... Drink, for you know not why you go, nor where," Kywyn glances to Kai briefly.
"I drink not because I don't know who I am, I really only drink because I am thirsty good sir."
The young elfling offers a hand.
"Lucian Risk."
Not knowing what type of company Kai keeps, Kywyn is skeptical about man's cheerful demeanor. He turns back toward the counter.
.oO(That was sorta cold.)
The theif shrugs and sits at a stool near the counter, beside Kywyn.
"What brings you here today?"
"How about yourself?"
Lucian takes a deep breath.
"What I was really looking for are bards, do you happen to know of any?"
So Kywyn, have you lost your "happiness" yet?
"Other than that, I'm not too sure. Probably best to check out the inns, maybe the Last Lich."
Kywyn turns to Kai.
"What type of question is that, Kai? I've learned the greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions, not our circumstances. I trust I don't need any combative gear today?"
"Thanks for the tip. I guess you've already met then."
Lucian tightens his fingers around his walking stick at the mention of combat.
"Yep," Kywyn answers.
"Why are you looking for bards?"
"I'm looking for someone to play at a party... It wouldn't be one without."
He leans back.
Kywyn leans an elbow on the counter as he finishes his drink.
Lucian looks towards Grack.
"I assume that Marroc is behind that door?"[/i]
Kywyn turns to Kai.
"What type of question is that, Kai? I've learned the greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions, not our circumstances. I trust I don't need any combative gear today?"
The elf shrugs as he slightly tilts his head with a cold stare fixed on Kwywn.
It's just so surprising that someone like you has still yet to lose your "happiness". Disposition or not. But as much as I would enjoy another round with you, I cannot. Perhaps we can meet again for another duel. The woods would be much more interesting place for one don't you think?
"You think a thing like happiness is something you can lose, like a house key? It's a state. Sometimes, I might be happy; sometimes, I might be miserable. But it's not something you can catch like a fish or a cold. It is what it is."
Something about Kai brings out the pragmatic in Kywyn.
"Are you still so set in your path? You can't even see anymore can you? The vision has been burned away..."
"Whoi didna no one tell me it was 'appy 'our?"
"Afternoon sir!"
He jabs the stub of his pipe into the air to emphasize his next point.
"They are welcoime ta drink 'ere but Oi dunna tolerate any of their performin non sense."
Maybe your right...and maybe your wrong. I suppose I can't really tell you what I think is happiness, I never had it. It's but a dream for me, a dream I don't plan to work for.
Kai leans foward, resting his elbows on the counter. The half-elf forgotten during his conversation with Kwywyn.
I think I know why I find you so interesting...you seem to know more about myself then I do. It's almost a little scary...almost. However, my path is still set, even if sometimes I can't see why I chose this path in the first place. I'm binded to it now.
Marroc's appearance draws Kai from his conversation with Kywyn. With a darkened demeanor, he looks up at his old associate.
A long time Marroc...
"You're cursed... so is everyone else. Just to varying degrees of intensity and ignorance."
"You seem almost happy in what you are doing now..." he allows quietly, "Maybe that's not the right word, but perhaps you have purpose you didn't before."
Kywyn turns to Marroc after the halfling speaks to Lucian.
"Marroc. Stopped by to see how things were... and if you were attending Hermy's gathering."
---
[OoC: Small note, Kywyn's human actually]
oO. (This is getting akward...) Lucian looks out of the cornor of his eye at Kywyn and Kai.
"In fact Oi cin guarantee ya 'e'll already be plannin on bein there."
Your right Kywyn, its not exactly being happy...but maybe it's anticipation you see in me. I think I may have finally decided to make my move.
Kai narrows his eyes as he studies the halfling.
.oO( And you of all people, my old friend, should know where I should start first.)
Hearing Kai, Kywyn doesn't turn to face the elf.
"Good luck with all that," he says sedately.
Finding his mood growing darker with the company of Kai and Lucian, Kywyn gathers his satchel in preparation to head out.
Kywyn spares a couple of nods toawrd Kai and Lucian and then departs. Walking along the least crowded path, Kywyn eixts the inn into the street.
---
[To Elsewhere]
.oO(He's a strange one, but who around me is normal?)
"Actually, I was hoping to surprise Minto with the bards. Nothing like your own music to your ears."
Lucian blushes
"Or so i hear."
"If she 'adn't 'ad to 'ave left town Oi'd recommend me lass Brodda."
"Oi really couldn't name ya any other bards. Oi know the Jackals 'ad a few."
"Ya moight be better off checkin the Lich if yer loikin fer a bard."
He blows out a puff of smoke.
He slides an ale to both of them.
He takes another drag off his pipe. "Whoi a bard though?"
"Yer an actor aren't ya? Whoi not get soime of yer actin friends an put on a play? ct out one o'Minto's songs."
"All ya really need fer that is a pair o'red pants."
"I didn't know he did plays.... I only thought he did songs."
Marroc...can we talk.
He nods towards the halfling's office door then awaits for a reply.
Marroc slumps down into his chair and looks at Kai. "Wots on yer moind me boyo?"
Kai narrows his eyes as he watches the halfling.
Information about the Demmionites here in the city.
"What's your name?"
I seek the one who commands them...
His knuckles whiten as he tightens his grip on the longsword.
"Only a fool would seek out Kakodemian 'imself."
"An Oi don't think yer a fool."
"I'm Lucian, nice to meet you."
Shaking his head, he releases his painful grip on the sword.
"So, how long have you worked here?"
"Grack does not care how long."
"Grack care how well."
Lucian turns back to the bar.
"Hello, I was hopping to find Borin here, I have a question for him."
"Well e' ain't here."
*Smile*
"Do you know when he will be getting back?"
"I don't know. I suppose he be back when e' wants ter be back. Can I get yer somtin?"
"No...no thank you. Well could you see that he gets this."
*Jace hands the dim bartender a sealed envelope. *
"I will der that fer ya. eny ting else?"
"No that will be very helpful. Thank you. Oh yes my name is Jace Cornwall. Have a good day."
"You to Mr. Cornwell."
*Jace turns around shaking his head.*
.oO(My name isn't exactly difficult... I wonder if I should trust this to this poor guy. I don't wish to have to come back and do it all over again.)
*Jace just leaves for Ms weatherbys boarding house.*
Your right Marroc...I'm not a fool. The one I seek is mortal and will die just as easily.
Shaking his head, he releases his painful grip on the sword.
Marroc takes a puff. "'oo oar ya seekin?"
"Ya got that roight me boyo."
"Powerful indeed."
"Otherwoise the Church O'Agathalos would 'ave wiped 'im out a long toime ago, don't ya think?"
"Wot makes ya think ya cin do somethin that a whole gaggle 'o paladins an priests can't do?"
.oO (But isn't that the way the world really is. Lopsided and odd. It provides its own sort of balance in its chaos. It is a beautiful thing, elegant and decisive. An opportunity waiting to be taken.)
"But, Oi dunna suspect Oi'm gunna be able ta toilk ya out of it am Oi."
The halfling sighs. "Oi dunna know exactly where ya could foind the goiy yer loikin fer, but Oi know 'oo moight. An so da you from wot Oi've 'eard."
"Brother Luthor."
"'e moight be willin ta 'elp ya out if yer willin ta 'elp 'im out."
"Froim wot Oi've found out thar are a lot o'divisions among the followers o' that particular god. An they don't tend ta work as well tagether as those of the Mother an 'er other son."
"Good thing too."
Is that so...interesting.
The elf closes his eyes for a moment before walking towards the office door. Just before opening the door, he looks back at Marroc.
Do you need anything from me? Kai says with a voice as frosty as ever.
.oO(Maybe he is at the party Hermy and Minto spoke of.)
*Moves out of the door and off to the halfling quarter.*
I have my answer...let's go.
Kai looks down the the dice for a moment before leaving.
.oO(Mmmm.... Heavily armed....wonder if he wants to go with me out of town....I could get to know some more people.)
*Jace gets up and walks over adjusting his own hefty swords, and strolls up behind the elf pretty quietly but not to quiet*
"Good day Sir. May I ask a question of you. I am going to go on a little hunting trip around the city soon and I am looking for somebody to go with. Would you be interested?"
"We probably can find the help we need at the party."[/i]
I don't make a good hunting companion...
He shifts his gaze onto Lucian for a second before looking back at Jace.
.oO( This may good way to pass the time as I think of a plan.)
When and where do you wish to meet? He says icily.
"Maybe tommorow morning. No longer then a two days if things go normaly. In front of the SSAG. Or here if that suits you better. My name is Jace Cornwall."
*Jace gives his normal short respectful bow.*
"And You?"
He then turn back to the door.
Tomarrow in front of the Silver Sword will fine.
At that, the elf pushes the inn's door open and leaves.
"Friendly guy."
.oO(I think I might regret asking this guy to go with me....I would be better off taking the grouchy gnome.)
*Jace gives her a glance and he gets back a glare and a scowl.*
.oO(Maybe not.)
*With that Jace Leaves for the pary he heard of earlier.*
Previously posted in Elsewhere page 14Barking, Kiara bounds playfully ahead, darting down an alley as though inviting a game of tag. Her attention is caught by a fascinating scent, and she noses along a narrower alley to the left....
*Waking up with a groggy start Tensek get's up and looks out the room window at the moon his hand instictively gripping his kukri.*
.oO(What an odd dream...)
*The ranger's hand slowly brushes Kiara's side and he looks at the dog. Pausing to reflect on the dream.*
.oO(It was so lifelike... I can still see the place in my mind...)
*Patting Kiara awake Tensek rises and prepares himself for a hunt.*
Come along girl we're going hunting.
*As he finishes gearing up Tensek leaves the room and the inn heading towards the spot he saw in his dream.*
[to elsewhere]
"Good day ter ye. I'm lookin fer a Boirin, I was wonderin if he lives here."
"Why yes he does, but I'm afraid I don't know where he is at the moment, why don't you sit down and I'll try to find him."
"Why thank ye."
*With another bow from both of the brothers, they go off to find a nice place to sit down, while the person goes off to find Boirin. While they are sitting Aramil starts to nod off a little while Oskar begins to pray to Agathalos.
[dwarven]"Good morning Master, I hope you are well. Its good to see you again."
"So um why are yeah here not that its not good ta see ya."
Boirin looks at Osric and Aramil with anticipation and tiredness.
*The brothers both bow to Boirin as he comes down to talk to them. Then Aramil offers him a seat and when they all sit down Aramil gets right to business.
"Well I have been summoned ter go on an adventure wit Ulerian, and he has at his request sent me ter bring ye along with us. So if ye would like ter come wit us, come, if not suit yerself."
*Aramil looks at Oskar who is looking at Aramil and frowning at him. Then he realizes why he is getting that look and quickly says.
"Oh I almost fergot, Boirin, this is me brudder, Oskar. Oskar this is Boirin, a fine lad if I say so meself."
*With that Oskar stands up and gives Boirin a formal bow then he sits back quietly and waits for Boirin to either greet him or give them an answer about going or not.
[dwarven]"I am honored to meet you both. Oscar, I hope that your travel to the city was uneventfull."
"Yes I would be very happy to go on another adventure, the last one I ended up sitting in a warehouse for hours while a bunch of guards ran down some criminals. But I did get some goodies out of it."
"Like these."[/dwarven]
Boirin removes a soft leather bundle from somewhere about his person. Opening it up he displays the skeleton keys, fine pics, mirrors on a stick, and probes from his kit.
[dwarven]"Its a bute ain't it. I think with these pups I can open up doors that get in our way even faster. Same with chests. And those nasty traps don't stand a chance now."[/dwarven]
Boirin smiles and glances at Aramil's axe.
[dwarven]"Well now thats a fine peice of work if I ever saw one, did you do that Aramil? I knew you were a smith but it appears you were being humble when you spoke of you skill! We will have to talk about you maybe making something for me when we get done."[/dwarven]
"Well it has been an honor ter meet ye Boirin, but please ye don't have ter use our native tongue around us. Be free and talk normally. And we are glad ter have ye along with us on the adventure."
*The two brothers bow their heads and then Aramil speaks up when Boirin mentions his axe.
"Heh, well in a way I did make this, I was the one who crafted it, then Mirrelle put an enchantment on it ter make it stronger."
"I'm going ter have ter meet this Mirrelle one day, if she can cast a fine enchantment like that, I am able ter do the same thing, but I'm afraid not as good as her. She must be really powerful."
"Aye, that she is. Well now that we are commin with us Boirin, we need ter meet Ulerian at the Last Linch Inn. So why don't ye get yer stuff ready and while we wait down here. Then we'll all go ter the Inn and meet up with Ulerian. Sound good?"
"Sorry, its just that I thought that when three dwarves were together they would speak their native tounge."
He shakes his head does a handspring over the bar and runs up stairs. In a few minutes he has gathered is things and donned his armor. As he comes down the stairs he carries his dwarven style helm under his arm and his sword is strapped to his hip. On the opposite his hand crossbow rests. Across his back is his pack a larger crossbow. He smiles at the two.
"I am ready."
When everyone is ready to leave Boirin heads out towards the Last Lich Inn.
*Oskar politly says this to Boirin before he goes off to get his stuff. The two dwarves wait patiently while Boirin is grabbing his things, and once he has, he lets him lead the two brothers to the LLI.
The cloaked man with hood-hidden golden eyes walks into the Inn. The scythe clicks against the ground one last time as he sets the bottom against the floor whilst seeking an empty seat with his eyes. Finding one, he heads in that direction.
He hoped they had a room here... maybe he should ask before getting a seat? That sounded oddly like a smart move...
Well, he hoped he had slept in worst places than this, anyways... if this place was somehow worse, he would consider sleeping in the streets, yes he would.
Oh... sorry, yes I am. Can I have an ale? How much does a room cost?
"Ale's a copper plus tip, and a rooms 5 silver if you want privacy, a silver if you don't mind the common room."
The term seems to completely go over his head at first, as if he didn't understand the phrase. Much like when you tell someone to do something and they give you a blank look of "huh?" Just as in those cases, he realizes what she means and nods.
That sounds good, yes it does! ...what do you suggest?
Culex reaches into his pouch, pulling out a three copper.
That'll pay for the drink then, yes it will.
He thinks for a moment, glancing at his scythe from time to time. He was afraid that he would thwap someone in his sleep if he was in a common room, but he needed to find a constant source of money if he was going to stay any real length of time. He was told he would find answers here, yes he was, so he figured they wouldn't be instant answers. Too much to tell anyways, yes there was.
I don't mind the common room, no I don't.
"But I can get you some of Wealdy's stew if you think you've got the stomache for it. It'll be 4 silver."
"Payable up front, and there's no refund if you can't handle it."
She gives the man a once over and shrugs. "Once your finished I'll have Wealdy find you some bedding."
"For an extra coin I'll make sure he finds clean ones."
Culex hands the gnome 6 silver: 4 for the food, 2 for the bedding.
Fool quest? Your cooks go on fool quests? That sounds interesting. Maybe I should try looking for fool quests, yes I should. I mean, they even have my nickname in them, yes they do.
She quickily pockets the coins and heads to the bar. She shoves the thin man working behind it away, and shouts at him to get some stew ready.
She pours a mug about half way full and then brings it back over to Culex.
"What kind of quest are you looking for? One that will bring u... you in a lot of money hopefully."
"Don't know yet, no I don't. I haven't heard of anything, no I haven't, and I wouldn't know what to do, no I wouldn't. I only know how to fight, that is it. So I guess I'd have to get into something where I fight. Well, unless you know of a quest of much painting, or sculpting or some such thing like that..."
Now that you mention it, I just might know where you could find something like that."
"But as Marroc would say if he wasn't off partying it up, information aint always free."
"Really? Sounds nifty, yes it does. So, where can I find something like that?"
Culex, clever though not exactly observant, blinks.
"...erm... it ain't? I always thought information was free. I mean, all you need to do is talk and it is shared, yes it is. Or are you being subtle? I'm not so good with subtle. Well, at least, I'm told I'm not, yes I am."
"I was pretty sure I'd never seen you in here before. Now I know it."
She shakes her head. "Yeah you can get free information. But if you want it quickily, or without having to do the work yourself you have to pay for it."
"And I'm willing to do the work for you for a small fee."
Wealdy comes out with a bowl of broth with a few vegtables floating in it, and gives the gnome a questioning look before heading back to the bar.
"Yep, I'm new here, yes I am."
Culex glances at the soup. His first thoughts are more instinct than anything else... the kind of thoughts one would think of as alien to their own mind, something that really shouldn't belong. Yet, these kinds of thoughts always seemed so very right.
Was it poisoned, and if so, how do you check if it is without finding out yourself? Who would be willing to sample it first? Is there someone skilled in removing such poisons nearby? Could he still fight effectively if handicapped by said poison? How many people here would be against him, and how many indifferent or even helpful?
Culex smiled, ignoring the usual thoughts that raced through his head. He hated being that suspicious of people, and so usually decided not to be.
"How small is a small fee?"
He starts on the broth before him as he awaits a reply.
"One gold."
On reflection, he realized that this gnome must bleed newer people like him dry of money very, very quickly, yes she must.
He couldn't afford to spend it all so quickly, though, no he couldn't. Of course, this was kinda the test. He would soon learn if she was reliable, unreliable, or a little too expensive, yes he would.
"And since that was such a simple one ta find out, I'll even tell you where you can find a few fights too."
"That sounds good, yes that does. Please, by all means, tell me."
"Upstairs there is a virtual treasure trove of paintings of all types."
"Some of the city's best artist work there on occasion."
"Now I'm not going to tell you how to get in there and get those paintings. That's up to you."
"I'm just telling you where you can find them."
"Head up that street there..." She points out the door and then proceeds how to get to the marjket. And from there the shop in question.
Once she has finished, she smiles again.
"And if it's a fight you are looking for, we'll any minute now, our bouncer should be back on duty."
"And he'd have no qualms about pulling off the arms of anyone who questions the quality of service around here."
Culex blinks, almost audibly. Well, that's not exactly what he meant, no it isn't.
"Thanks, but I think I'll pass, yes I will."
Culex turns his attention to the broth and the ale before him and eats quietly.
[ooc: And off to the place of much sleep I go.]
He wasn't sure whether or not such information was helpful, no he wasn't, but he doesn't mind. He was too curious not to go there now, yes he was.
[Heading to the market square.]
.oO(Well I guess that was Aramil and Oskar. The three of them went off someplace. I wonder if there are more people that got pulled into the quest.)
*Jace walks out of the pub and leaves for the Jackal compound.*
The man takes a seat at a table near the door and awaits the others.
"Boirin," Kywyn greets quietly.
"No backing down, eh?"
Boirin says between bites of bread and cheese.
"Just putting in time," Kywyn says, "If Ulerian's right, there should be something worth seeing down there."
. o O (But she said she never went down there. But then how could she give money to a begger if she saw him, she never sees any! Thats what I need to do, go between the beggers and the givers.)
sigh
Lost in thought, bumps his nose into the chair of an especially shady looking figure deep in conversation with a man scarfing down bread and cheese.
"Oop! Sorry."
Flushes with embarassment and rubs his nose.
"Looks familiar..." the man thinks to himself.
From the collar of his muck-colored shirt, Hex stares at Treetrip. The ebony frog ribbits once.
Kywyn then remembers seeing the gnome and his wooden hat in the halfling quarter before.
Looking back, Kywyn mentions squarely, "Look a bit lost."
"What of the dwarves?"
"We will go the way we left... it is not far from here."
"Expect anything to have changed?"
---
[OoC: If you want, we could move back to the Adventure thread first, and just leave this end open to let Treetrip finish the conversation and let Aramil/Oskar arrive.]
"I would doubt it greatly, but one can never be so sure who's watching and all parties interested. "
He begins wrapping his long nails on the table gentle. An obvious sign of impatience.
---
OOC: Depends on if you wish to continue with Dangleroots in the present or not. Ulerian will dismiss him when the dwarves arrive
"The sunrods I was able to find at Natala's."
---
[Any talking with Treetrip would be before Aramil arrives then. But I'll post to the adventure thread first, and party can talk from there.]
"In case I drop mine..."
"Sorry."
Rubs his nose and leaves the irate man with long nails be.
Reaching the common room, places Danglethwack under his pillow. The hammer and pick extend past the pillow on each side by half a foot. Pulls off his boots, leather breastplate and clothes and lays down under the covers.
Reaches his thumb and forefinger into his nose a plucks out a chair splinter. A little uncontrolled tear of pain wells up in his eye.
. o O (Ow, that smarts. Almost as bad as that lady.)
Plucks four more splinters out of his gnomish gnose and slips his arms and shoulders under the cover as well.
. o O (I can't give up though. Someone's going to come around at least. Just a bad day, thats all, just one bad day out of the thousands of days I've been alive. Thats right.)
whispers "one good day won't make my life, and one bad day won't break it. The attitude and skills I develope today will last me the rest of my days."
Nods off with a smile on his face.
"Mmmmmmm........ morning"
Squeezes his eyes shut really tight before throwing the eyelids back and sitting up.
Voice: "Quiet down....."
Turns to his side and sees a groggy eyed patron in the next bed down.
Treetrip: "Sorry"
Slips out of the bed and dresses himself, slinging his backpack over his shoulder and retrieving Danglethwack from the pillow.
Jingle jingle jingle...
The irritated patron throws his pillow over his head and squinches his eyes together as Treetrip exits the common room.
"I wonder what I'll do today. I'll try again, maybe I can get some coin to start my work up."
Walks over to a table and climbs into the human-sized seat.
The frightening barmaid trudges over with greasy breakfast and stares at Treetrip.
Billa: "One silver."
Fishes the coin from his pocket and places it in her strong fingers. Billa lays the food on the table and walks back to the kitchen.
Stares over his meal for a second. Biscuits, gravy, and meat.
. o O (Well, it is a good meal.)
Puts the food down into his stomach, immediately feeling heavier.
. o O (Wow.)
Scoots off of the massive chair and trots across the floor to the door.
Jingle jingle jingle