Thar d20+6=18 ; d20+19=39 ; Sunday January 31st, 2010 3:18:51 PM
Thar enjoys the bliss of walking with his beloved and dreams of their future together, making a family, etc. He admires the cloths and asks Ruby if she likes any, and if so, will buy her a sheet or two of cloth...
When they see the gnome talking to Edmund, his thoughts change and he hopes that Edmund hasn't got himself into a spot of trouble. He slows his pace and looks around the area, seeing if there are any threats or dangers present... If he sees nothing, he goes up and greets the gnome, but tries to see from Edmund's expression if she is friendly or not...
Spot = 39 (nat'l 20...) Sense Motive = 18
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Sunday January 31st, 2010 4:08:29 PM
Revi was close behind Ruby and Thar, the proverbial third wheel. After a little bit of walking, she slowly fell behind, so as to not intrude on their romance laced conversation. In truth, Revi was disgusted at all the sweet nothings Thar and Ruby were exchanging--mere words bound by nothing but a feeling, and feelings had a habit of changing. She wished them the best earlier, but it was not the life she wanted for herself.
Seeing the gnome girl at the doorstep of the Manor, Revi just shrugged her shoulders and walked up to and past the gnome and Eddie, giving the latter a swift smack on the posterior as she past him. "I do hope you behaved yourself Eddie, you bad boy." Revi chuckled to herself and continued on and up to her room--changed out of her clothes, locked the door and went to sleep.
Wynum {Str 8} d20+3=20 ; d20=14 ; Sunday January 31st, 2010 5:36:17 PM
The elven wine holds well, and Wynum's legs too, but in his weakened state, he sadly has to interrupt his wine tasting. Hazy and wild-eyed (unless interrupted), he trots erratically back to some place he believes to be home but turns out to be the foreigner's quarter where he salutes random people to the call of "Greetings noble elves, best night to you", before taking a short midnight nap in a park, after carefully observing nearby trees for hidden shapechangers and beerbugs.
Julian Monday February 1st, 2010 4:58:22 AM
Julian finds that it is very easy to fall back into a fantastic relationship with Selithe. However, there is no reading going on this time.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday February 1st, 2010 9:33:01 AM
Arm spends a VERY enjoyable evening with his new 'friend'. Stretching luxuriously in the morning, he dresses and prepares to get back to Mithril Manor, but not before asking, "I would really like to see you again, my dear. Do you live in the city, or are you just visiting?".
Edmund Monday February 1st, 2010 6:10:47 PM
Edmund begins to frown as the Gnome answers his questions--that is, he begins to frown more than usual.
"You and your husband sell Ice Drinks, what?" the wizard replies. "What sort of Ice Drinks? And why would a pair of drinks vendors be so afeared that they'd have need of an Anti-Magic Field? Surely, Protection from Evil would be good enough, and much the easier too, to boot. Or perhaps is there something you're not telling me? The more I know, the better we can assist you."
Edmund peers narrowly down at the Gnome as other members of the Order begin to arrive, and Thar can certainly see from his face that he is suspicious of the visitor, for the half-elf is not doing much of a good job of hiding it--but neither is he trying very hard to do so.
"That... was Revi, one of our swords. And this is Thar, our High Cleric," Edmund says by way of introducing two of the recent arrivals--though only Thar has hung around to introduce himself.
"Our Gnomish visitor," Edmund says to Thar, "was just about to explain to me the finer details of her and her husband's icey drinks business. If you'd like to stay, I'm certain it may prove instructive."
"Now, mistress Gnome," he continues, "Be so good as to continue, if you do not mind the presence of this redoubtable member of the clergy."
Ruby Monday February 1st, 2010 8:56:21 PM
Ruby glances to the cloth and then shakes her head. "How about we do a little looking tomorrow. I do need to see if I can get a wedding dress designed." She had her arm wrapped in his and her other hand clasping his hand in hers, finger twined together.
When Thar stopped at the door she stopped with him, having no intentions of letting go of his hand. She also had another motive as well as she had been thinking of asking Edmund to give her away to Thar. The thought made her giggle and she turned to the business at hand before it got worse. "Hello."
DM Robert Monday February 1st, 2010 11:47:42 PM
Wynum trots off into the Foreign Quarter, oblivious to the crossing of the bridge that might have otherwise clued him into mistake he was making. He finds himself between the Elven Consulate and the Dwarven Embassy. He greets some nearby 'noble elves' who shake their long, thick beards at him as he passess out between two potted trees. The centaur awakens suddenly with a jolt. He is on his side in a large stone room. There is a single candle on the one wall, illuminating the soft hay on the floor and a single lithe figure kneeling in front of him with a bucket and a facecloth. The figure attempts to sooth him, cooing to him gently and trying to wipe his face with the damp cloth. There are no windows and the door is closed.
Revi drops back from walking with Thar and Ruby as they, hand in hand, talk the sort of drivel that lovers often do. Inspired by some random cloth floating behind a mage Ruby's thoughts quickly turn towards a wedding dress. Revi made a good choice. Oh, so did Thar. And Ruby too. As did Julian and Arm.
Arm's companion smiles to him, "I'd love to. I'm working for Selithe again these next three nights. Perhaps tomorrow for lunch might be nice. I'm staying in the Hindquarter, directly opposite Landlubber's. It's very convenient for travelling to work, but I don't know how long Selithe plans to stay here. I've been travelling with her and her 'casino' for almost a year. It's a good lifestyle, I really like it."
Edmund's questions invoke quite the reaction: "Flavoured ice drinks? Well," here the little lady takes a deep breathe, "there's Root Beer, Berry Blue, Blueberry, Bubble Gum, Buttered Popcorn, Cafe Latte, Cantaloupe, Cappuccino, Caramel Corn, Chili Mango, Chocolate Pudding, Cinnamon, Coconut, Cotton Candy, Crushed Pineapple, Dr Pepper, French Vanilla, Green Apple, Island Punch, Juicy Pear, Kiwi, Lemon Drop, Lemon Lime, Licorice, Mango, Margarita, Mixed Berry Smoothie," It is clear that she is very proud of ALL her flavours. She continues, "Orange Sherbet, Peach, Piņa Colada, Plum, Pomegranate, Raspberry, Red Apple, Sizzling Cinnamon, Sour Cherry, Strawberry Cheesecake, Strawberry Daiquiri, Strawberry Jam, Sunkist , Lemon, Sunkist Lime, Sunkist Orange, Sunkist Pink Grapefruit, Sunkist Tangerine, Toasted , Marshmallow, Top Banana, Tutti-Fruitti, Very Cherry, Watermelon, Wild Blackberry, Apricot, Buttered Toast, Chocolate Cherry Cake, Graham Cracker, TABASCO Cinnamon, Baked Bean, Roasted Garlic, Pumpkin Pie, Dark Chocolate, Superfruit Mix with Acai Berry, Cherry, Smooth Blend Cold Stone Creamery, Ice Cream Parlor Mix, Sour Cherry, Sour Watermelon, Sour Blueberry, Sour Lemon, Sour Orange, Sour Peach, Sour Strawberry, Sour Raspberry, Sour Grape, Sour Apple"
As the Mithril Order return to the Manor the gnome is almost overwhelmed. "Not THE Revi? Really? Oh my, I am all aflutter. What a woman she is. And even more beautiful than the bards tell of. "And Thar, everyone who's anyone in the city knows of Thar. My brother's flatmate's uncle was cure by Thar three years ago, grew his arm right back from the stump he did. Pleased to meet you, sir Thar. "Ruby too. I am flabbergasted to be so close to so many of the Mithril Order. It's like my dreams have come true."
"Anti-Magic Field!" The gnome retorts loudly, looking up and down the street. "What are you accusing me of?" Then quietly she says, "Our competitors will try anything, you see. I'll explain, because perhaps the Mithril Order can help with more than just some titters of iron. But not here on the street, if you please." She is quite excited by the prospect of merely entering the Mithril Manor, and her fingers jitter nervously, hopefully.
DM Robert Monday February 1st, 2010 11:48:37 PM
OOC: I am having trouble with email today. I was hoping to reply to everyone regarding Downtime, maybe later tonight.
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Tuesday February 2nd, 2010 12:56:28 AM "Cotton Candy!" The cry came from upstairs. Revi's door burst open and she was wearing naught but a tight clinging nighty. "Who dares to bring cotton candy into this manor?" walking out to the landing, dragging her huge two handed sword behind her, "Anyone who dares to bring that vile, insidious concoction near me will pay with their life. Is it you Gnome?!" Revi pointed her blade at the gnome--tendrils of cold air began to drip down the length of her blade.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday February 2nd, 2010 10:03:19 AM
Arm's face drops a bit when he hears that Marie (OOC: Yes, Robert...her name is Marie ;) ) will be leaving soon. He says to her, "Is there ANYTHING I can do to convince you to stay in the City? I'll make sure you find things just as if not MORE enjoyable than your current situation.".
Back at the Manor, Arm calls to Revi, "Stay your blade, my dear...I'll make sure none of it gets near you.". As he says this he tries very hard not to grin...OR laugh aloud for that matter.
Wynum {Str 8} d20-2=18 ; Tuesday February 2nd, 2010 11:05:39 AM
"Noo sergeant, I wasn't, I..." The Centaur comes too suddenly, and promptly thrives to get back on his feet from this undignified condition, and brushing away any hay.
Seeing the figure he reacts promptly. "What kind of hotel room is that? Where is the... Oh well. I see.", which he tries to do at that moment, fighting hard to dissipate the taste of Sour Cinnamon Jalapeņo ice drink that lingers in his mouth and solidifying the Grey Ooze that currently fills his skull cavity. Focusing on the figure, then the walls and the door, he tries to ascertain when in the hells he is.
Sense Motive 18
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Tuesday February 2nd, 2010 12:09:20 PM
"Don't tell me you're already under it's spell, Arm?" Lowering her sword slightly, she began a tale a woe. "When I was younger my head wasn't as put on straight as it is now. My mind was filled with fanciful notions, things that clouds and dreams are made of. Those dreams ended when I tasted my first cotton candy. Sparks flew in my brain, my heart raced and my vision blurred upon the sickly cloying caress of the cotton upon my tongue. It was sweet madness spun from nothingness that whispered liquid love to my ears when it melted in my mouth. But oh what a fickle lover it would turn into--the promise of sweet desire came at a price. My body began to change, curves developed where there were none before--dangerous curves. I was no longer lean and mean, but soft and curvy. I was a fatty. But never again! Never! I swear if anyone brings the likes of cotton candy near me, they will rue the day." Finishing her last statement with a jab of her sword in the direction of those there, you could tell she was very serious about the matter.
Thar Tuesday February 2nd, 2010 1:54:33 PM
Thar blushes at the woman's adoration of the various members and thanks her for the appreciation. To Edmund, he says, "Um, Ed... Maybe we should be polite and invite the lady in? If she has business with us, we should at least give her the privacy she needs and meet with her in the parlor?"
Edmund Tuesday February 2nd, 2010 3:37:05 PM
Edmund looks quite irritated when the Gnome seems to have heard of everyone but him, but when Revi comes down waving her sword and shouting, his annoyance is momentarily forgotten.
Facing Revi, Edmund shoos her away angrily. "She's talking about drink flavours, you lunatic! Put your sword away at once, before someone gets hurt or turned into an exceptionally fat frog!"
Sighing, he returns to his conversation with Thar and the Gnome. "Forgive us," he says somewhat apologetically. "She's completely mad. We're working on a cure, but no luck thus far. Very serious case. Why don't you come in and explain your situation? I imagine someone can get you something to drink."
With that, Edmund opens the door and gestures into the Manor, allowing the Gnome to pass unhindered, adding, "But don't touch anything or wander off--the whole manor is trapped, top to bottom, with fiendish and arcane spells!"
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 d20+9=28 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+1=6 ; Tuesday February 2nd, 2010 5:12:28 PM
"Wait, she could be a vampire, seeking entrance into our place, because, yes, they need permission!" Revi stood at the ready, wishing she had some spell or at least some armor on. "Can't you detect evil on her? Anyone who would make Cotton Candy as a flavor has got something to hide." Spot 28 Listen 31 Sense Motive 6
Julian Tuesday February 2nd, 2010 11:27:13 PM
Julian spends the night with Selithe. They spend a lot of time talking and catching up. In the early hours of the morning they both fall asleep and sleep soundly
DM Robert Wednesday February 3rd, 2010 2:05:16 AM
"I am simply following Selithe," replies Marie to Arm. "Working with her is great. I get to use my skills. She pays well. She is a good boss. And travel is just part of the job. When she tells us that we've been in the City long enough we will move on. Usually we stay a month, though Plateau City is by far the biggest and most impressive city we've been to. It's the biggest in the Wold, isn't it? Perhaps we will be here longer. "Oh, you're quite the charmer, aren't you? I could see you convincing me to stay..." She teases him a little. "But I do like my work. Maybe you could travel with me. See the Wold..."
Wynum finds the elf in the room with him is quite agile, and is out of his way in an instant as he stands. "The door is unlocked of course. It is around 1 am. You were moaning in your sleep. I found you were a little hot, so I was cooling you with the cloth." He is a young elf, both naive and self-confident at once. It is as though this is his first significant task. Standing up very straight in his simple white robe he looks up to Wynum and says, "You are within the Elven Consulate in the Foreign Quarter. We brought your unconscious body inside before the dwarves could harm you. It seems you have travelled too far today, such a toll it has taken on your body. "What news from the taurs, then? No, wait. It must be the most imperative news from the Mithril Order. I will take you directly to the Ambassador. This way, quickly then."
At the manor, Revi suddenly flares up and waves her sword about in the name of childhood obesity. Arm tries to not laugh at her as he attempts to smooth the situation. It seems Revi, "Killing Machine," was once a heavy, eating pre-teen, and she is still a little sore about it all.
Thar brings a sentiment of good manners to the Manor and reminds Edmund that he should perhaps invite the gnome inside from the cool night air. The mage remonstrates Revi for her hot-headedness. Revi, still a little fiery, loudly warns that the gnome might be a vampire.
In the parlour, Thar and Edmund (anyone else?) sit to talk with the gnome. She introduces her self as Memimma Shutooticktock. She is short, even for a gnome, with a gentle round face. She is a little round in the middle, and somehow motherly. There is a silver brooch in the shape of a 5 pointed star on her simple blue pinafore. "No, you can't be the Edmund," the gnome woman tells Edmund matter-of-factly. "He's 7 foot tall, and his fingers are flames, his legs the breeze. He eats monsters and wears their ears on a necklace, and casts Wish to tie his shoelaces, so many spells he has each day. You're much too pretty and young and polite to be Edmund. You're his apprentice," she declares, "Where is your Master? Perhaps he has some iron filings..." "My husband and I sell flavoured ice drinks at events in Plateau City. I use magic to invoke the ice required, and to flavour the drinks. Our competitor does much the same, but his range of flavours is, well, let's just say it is limited. Since we are more popular he has taken to sabotaging our stand. I've tried a few Dispel Magics at the previous events. Sometimes it works, sometimes not. You know how it is. Anyway, last time I saw him casting, caught him in the act -- Anti-Magic Field! Our iced-drinks are plain water within the field, and I can't cast within it. "So I am going to be ready for him this time. Except that I've only just now learned the spell. We've no iron filings, not even a file to make some. And tomorrow is our next stall, at the Candidates Speeches in the Wealthy Quarter. That's why I am here so late at night, I am excited and anxious to be able to cast this tomorrow. Can you help?"
Memimma's brooch: Spot DC 20 or Appraise (precious metals) DC 14 to Highlight to display spoiler: {It's platinum, not silver. It could use a good polish to bring out it's true colour.} Knowledge (arcana) DC 20 to Highlight to display spoiler: {Some of the Star Mages wear something to signify their membership. This is not compulsory, nor encouraged, nor is there a standard insignia to be used. Each mage's star, should they choose to wear one, is unique.}
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Wednesday February 3rd, 2010 2:37:44 AM
"Eh, too late." Revi quibbles as they let in the vampire gnome. Taking a seat on the chaise, Revi made sure to keep her legs together--as she was not wearing anything else under her nighty. Her sword still clutched in her hand and it's ice cold steel chilling the area, it became a little nippy in the air, if you know what I mean.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+9=10 ; d20+13=27 ; Wednesday February 3rd, 2010 5:58:54 AM
Arm smiles at Marie and says, "Well, I guess we'll just have to make the most of the time you have left in the City. As far as seeing the Wold, I've seen quite a bit of it, and some of it more than I'd like to. I would truly enjoy going with you, but my allegiance is to the Order. Shall we meet again this evening? You're welcome to stay the night with me at the Manor if you'd like, and I can always walk you back to work in the morning.".
Back at the Manor: He contemplates exactly how MUCH cotton candy it would take to add that much weight to a person, and it boggles his mind. Glancing at Memmima, he can't tell WHAT the brooch is made of...it could be cotton candy for all he knows (spot=10, nat. 1...DOH!), but he DOES recognize as possibly belonging to a Star Mage (Knowledge Arcana=27). However, he will not bother to tell Ed anything at the moment...with all the praise that's being heaped upon him, knowing this will make him unliveable with for quite some time to come.
Thar Wednesday February 3rd, 2010 9:29:43 PM
Thar politely listens to Memimma's story and admires her pretty brooch. He shakes his head at Revi and says, "My dear Revi, you always put a smile on my face. Yes, our friend may be a vampire, but if that's the case, I welcome the challenge. I haven't vanquished any undead for a while...However, you have a point..."
Trying to be polite, he says to the gnome, "Memmina, I'm going to cast a spell on you to ensure that you are what you say. I just want to make sure my companion's fears are unjustified... But if there's something you need to tell before I cast it, please do so now..."
He waits a moment and then casts Detect Evil, trying to see if Memmina is at all evil...
If she is not evil, he asks, "So what exactly would you like us to do to help you? We're interested in helping you, but if we do this, we ask that you be available to do us a favor sometime in the future if we're in need.."
Thar 2nd post, OOC Wednesday February 3rd, 2010 9:59:51 PM
(OOC = Since Thar leveled up, I'd like find some time for him to train for a day or 2 at the WLA, since I joined it many levels ago... Got to get those skill points when I can... Is there a way we can do that?)
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 d20+9=20 ; Wednesday February 3rd, 2010 11:23:36 PM
Revi finally takes notice of the brooch Mem's was wearing and although she knew it to be rude, she really didn't care. "Your brooch is very nice. Are you a member of the Star Mages guild? If so, I'm looking for a mage that can cast a very powerful spell for me--It would be very profitable for said mage."
Wynum {Str 9} Thursday February 4th, 2010 12:49:05 AM
The centaur rubs his head, trying to piece together the past events, which brings about a jumbled mess of barbarians in wedding dresses, magical rings and much wine. "Yes, the dwarves, you mean *those* dwarves. Yes, quite a fight, thanks, thanks for getting me out..."
Thankful that his host has a low voice that doesn't hurt his head too much, he follows eagerly, gazing around this surprising place, then suddenly freezes and asks with a slight fear in his voice: "The consulate... But you said... I travelled. We're in the consulate, but... in which city's consulate?"
Regardless of the answer, Wynum will follow his guide.
DM Robert Thursday February 4th, 2010 5:28:51 AM
Revi shows herself to be quite the lady in the parlour.
Marie says with a cheeky smile and a light slap to Arm's thigh, "But we've only just met. I can't move in with you already. I'd like to meet you after lunch, somewhere quiet. How about the Druid Quarter? At Two. Okay?"
"You must have travelled far, and fast, to be in such a condition. Yes?" The young elf looks up to Wynum quizzically. "You are in the Plateau City, this is the Elven Consulate. Foreign Quarter. You are Wynum of the Mithril Order? You've not been in the city for a few days, and we heard rumours you were back. Since you in such a state we assumed... "Are you unwell? Have you been in a fight? Do you not have important news for the Ambassador?" The poor young elf is confused. He is beginning to doubt that he is personally helping one of the great adventurers of the greatest city of man. "Should I still disturb the Ambassador for you?"
Back in the Manor, Arm's mind boggles as he thinks through some quantities. He finds that he is inadvertently staring open-mouthed at Revi as he pictures bucket after bucket of Cotton Candy.
Memimma responds to Thar's request, saying "Yes, I understand, but don't you think you should announce the spell first? And what if I've already cast Undectable Alignment, deary? Well, I suppose 'Undectable' would give it away... Do what you need to do, Lovey. You won't find anything troubling about me. "I am simply a neighbour who was hoping to find some iron filings. It is not a life-and-death situation the likes of which you are used to. My heart wouldn't stand up to that which you deal with regularly. I am a humble mage who chooses to study and research and teach within the safety of the University. My husband makes wooden toys for our grandchildren and sells Flavoured Icees at public events - primarily so that he can attend every public function in the city." "A spell for you, young lady," Memimma addresses Revi with a hint of something stern and motherly in her voice, "might start with Create Clothing, and perhaps Imbue Manners, don't you think? I do know many of the mages at the University and many Star Mages as well. And though many of them would shun the offer of coins, some are still enticed by their lustre. Why don't you ask for me at the University? I'll be in my rooms the day after tomorrow. We'll talk then about what it is you desire. "I will leave you, I should think, so that you can go to bed, and so that I can go to bed. I'll prepare a full load of Dispel Magic for tomorrow and we'll see how friendly the competition is tomorrow. I'm sure you also have a very busy day tomorrow. Best of luck."
DM Robert Thursday February 4th, 2010 5:30:34 AM
OOC: Yes Thar, plenty of time for the WLA. In fact, I am planning for a few weeks for the adventurers to spend in Plateau City. It would be good to get to know the greatest city in the Wold.
Wynum {Str 9} Thursday February 4th, 2010 9:49:25 AM
"Yes, yes, on all accounts. I am Wynum, of the Mithril Order. {dramatic pause for himself} And we have travelled quite far, yes. I am merely disoriented from all this... ah, teleporting. And poison. Lots of poison. With this I bring news indeed, troubling news for your ambassador... and a request."
Centaurs don't usually wear clothing, but Wynum suddenly realizes that he is also without any of his gear, appearing as a commoner rather than the proud adventurer he is. However, glancing around at the simple elegance of the elves, he calms down. Checking his coat and tail for twigs and stains, he mutters. "Oh gods. I wish had my brush."
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday February 4th, 2010 9:53:58 AM
A bit confused, Arm says to Marie, "Please don't misunderstand me...I meant that you could stay the night at the Manor, not move in with me.".
He remains confused at their visitor's rambling, but chalks it up to the way of the gnomes. He stands and bows slightly to her and says, "Then we shall see you again soon?".
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Thursday February 4th, 2010 11:37:15 AM
Revi only nods her goodbyes to the gnome and once it was all done and the manor secure, she goes to bed, after telling everyone she'll be gone for the day tomorrow--she must call her wolf to her again.
Thar Thursday February 4th, 2010 2:07:54 PM
To the gnome, Thar replies with a sardonic grin, "Well, it seems that you're not evil, which is no surprise to you, I'm sure. I can't speak for everyone else, but I'm sure that we'd be glad to help you out. I'm all for free market competition and if someone is unfairly treating you, then we'll give you a hand. I'll look forward to talking with you more in the morning..."
To Ruby, he says, "Honey, I'm tired and it's bed time. If you can wait until the morning, I'd like to talk about planning our wedding, if that's OK with you. I've never planned one before... "
He pauses for a moment, considering whether to invite her to talk further in his room, but he realizes where that'll inevitably end up with more kissing than talking... Finally, he kisses her goodnight and retires to his own room...
DM Robert Friday February 5th, 2010 6:47:46 AM
Still very early in the morning Wynum is guided through the maze-like corridors of the Elven Consulate. Two minutes later he stands before a pair of very tall wooden doors that for a pointed arch around 30' above the ground. The doors are carved as a pair of matching trees. Knowledge nature DC 10 to Highlight to display spoiler: {Ash trees} Knowledge Religion DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Ash trees -- believed to be useful in divination and to ward off fairies.} His guide beckons the taur to enter, then say, "The Ambassador will be here any moment. We should wait quietly." Wynum finds himself in a large hall. The space is cleared and empty at the moment, though it could easily become a lively and festive space for the elves. A dozen candles float of their own accord on the walls around the wall, lightly reflected on the polished slate floor. Wynum and his guide stand in silence. The very high ceilings are difficult to define in the low-light conditions. There are four pairs of guards at the far end of the hall, two pairs on either side of a door, one door on each side of the hall. They stand motionless. Minutes pass. The far end of the hall features large stained glass windows. However, it is still too dark outside to make out the details at all. Stars move along their paths, though this cannot be seen through the glass. Wynum's legs begin to twitch. He fears he is about to have a cramp. The left door at the end of the hall opens slowly. It seems an eternity passes before a figure slowly emerges from behind it, gliding into the room wearing a simple and plane robe. Three others follow him, well dressed and ready for action. They bustle about behind the graceful movements of the lead figure. This small group moves only a short way towards Wynum and pauses, waiting. An awkward silence. The guide jumps to life, "Wynum..." he scratches at his mouth, "of the Mithril Order, with an Urgent Message. M'Lord." He bows and retreats, leaving the centaur to face the Elven Ambassador in his court at around 1 am.
Memimma replies to Arm, "Yes, why shouldn't we see each other again? For tea some time. Thank you. That would be lovely. "But, the day after tomorrow Thar. Tomorrow we will be selling Icees near the Candidates Speeches. I'll be in my rooms at the University after that. "Thank you for inviting me in, and listening to a babbling grandmother mage about her small problems. Stay safe," and with that she bustles out onto the street and walks home (opposite side of the street, around 6 houses down -- if you choose to watch her, though that would be a bit like spying or stalking). It is now around 1 am.
Julian and Arm haven't returned home yet. Revi and Thar and Ruby head straight for bed.
OOC: I've been hoping to hear from Edmund talk to the gnome. I guess we can retroactively fit it in if there's something important.
Julian Friday February 5th, 2010 6:51:01 AM
Julian returns to the Manor bright and early in the morning. He springs through the door and says (perhaps too loudly), "Ah, so good to see old friends. And, so, how is everyone here? Is anyone awake? Did you miss me? I'm hungry, let's go to Sampson's for breakfast. My shout."
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Friday February 5th, 2010 8:41:10 AM
Arm yawns deeply and says, "Well, I'm off to bed. See you all tomorrow.".
OOC: Arm IS at the manor....I was playing the part with Marie and a kind of prelude to my returning. If she agreed to stay the night, he will lead her to his room. If not, he will go alone.
Thar Friday February 5th, 2010 11:19:44 AM
After saying his evening prayers, Thar snoozes, dreaming of his and Ruby's life together...
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Friday February 5th, 2010 12:27:22 PM
Waking in the morning, Revi has a heavy breakfast as she knows she won't be eating again for another 24 hours. "I'm off to find a place of quiet contemplation, I'll be back this time tomorrow. Try not to miss me too much she says to the group." Gathering her gear up, she heads out.
--- ooc: start of 24hr ceremony to call an animal companion: Arashi; wolf.
Edmund Friday February 5th, 2010 1:55:44 PM
((Sorry guys, I've been sick in bed the past few days and it is a pain to type out a long post via iPhone.))
Edmund listens patiently to the Gnome and nods when she indicates she is ready to leave.
"Very curious," he says. "But as Thar has said, we don't approve of people cheating. We're happy to help you defend your own--but beyond that, it would be inappropriate for us to go."
Once she has left, Edmund shakes his head as he looks to the others. "She's not lying," he says quietly, "But there's something she's not telling us either. I don't get the impression that she's a bad person, but there's more to this than meets the eye. Well, to bed. We'll deal with Mimeograph tomorrow, or whatever her name is."
With that, the wizard turns and stomps up to his room where he gets a good night's sleep.
Rising in the morning, he lounges in his bath, reading his spellbook, and drinking tea from his wonderful new tea service. Once these morning activities are done, he descends to the common room, clothes bright and clean, looking freshly pressed and as dapper as ever.
"Where's Revi?" he asks the first person he sees. "Did I hear her leaving this morning? And where's Wynum?"
DM Robert Friday February 5th, 2010 3:50:21 PM
Ooc Sorry Arm, I thought you were spending the night with Marie.
Julian Friday February 5th, 2010 3:58:55 PM
Julian is surprised to see Edmund up relatively early. "I just passed Revi. She was up and off rather early. Wants her old wolf back I hope she means Arashi and not some fella. I wonder what sort of man she would bring home..." "should we go out for something to eat? I feel like something a bit special and cooked by someone else. It's nice to be back in the City, hey?"
Wynum {Str 9} d20+7=20 ; d20=7 ; Friday February 5th, 2010 10:24:26 PM
Keeping his weakened legs straight is no big deal compared to keeping his tail still. This require all his concentration, which explains why he isn't sufficiently impressed when the ambassador arrives. In any case, as the otherwise graceful and agile centaur is not accustomed to prolonged immobility, his first steps are uncoordinated, downright awful compared to the elves' smooth glide. In a discordant concert of hooves on tiles, he steps forward.
"Should have bought the Zephyr horseshoes" he thinks for an instant, then blurts out loud: "Wordwind.... Wynum Wordwind, warrior of the Mithril Order, High Lord", and attempts to bow and flex his knees, which brings sweat to his brow, especially on the getting up twelve hundred pounds of centaur with huge spider venom in the veins part. He takes a deep breath, not too sure of where this will lead.
"The stand-still in the Preserve has been disturbed, Lord. As we ventured there, the Blackheart woods beat with the growls and clamor of angry beerbugs, and the rustle of old and noble spiders. They had been gathered and organized by hybrid forces. They had been torn away from their peaceful path.
"Shapechangers, scheming creatures who seem to despise order have defied the law of the forest. Fate called us to an errand there, fate had us meet again, and with the guidance of the druids we routed them, and freed their captives from the city. Yet the dopplegangers escaped us once more, and once again we linger in the throes of ignorance.
"For we know nothing of their motives. They assaulted us, crippled the Council, attacked the royal guards, plundered the merchants, and sacrified horned horses to unknown gods. If you can divine their intentions, or know of their kind, creatures who know not their place, you might unravel this mystery. Of course, the Mithril Order stands by to assist. It is only time before they interfere with the noble races."
Deeply moved by his being there, Wynum at last breaks his flow of words.
{Diplomacy: 7 Don't have any of those Knowledge skills. However, trying Know/history to get some info about the business of elves in the Preserve (can't find anything in the woldipedia): 20}
DM Robert d20+5=15 ; Sunday February 7th, 2010 10:56:21 PM
Edmund concurs with Thar that the Mithril Order would not help people in cheating, and then he expresses his distrust of Memimma the Gnome Mage once she has left the Manor.
Revi leaves the Manor as soon as the Sun rises. She heads out towards the Monster Preserve to summon her animal companion back to her.
[On a different time scale -- Wynum is still at around 2 am] Wynum gives the Ambassador his account of the previous few weeks. He stands still, staring intensely at Wynum for a moment. His look is powerful and it becomes difficult to hold his gaze, and yet more difficult to look away. His four attendants also stare unmoving at their guest. Finally, they move, each whispering to the Ambassador. Listen DC 18 to Highlight to display spoiler: {Made the roll, but do you speak Elven?
"He carries some minor magic items, his two rings, bracers, cloak. He hides a necklace that I would assume is a Hand of Glory. Very distasteful." "He is not Evil of character." "And Lawful" [OOC: I couldn't find this on your Character Sheet.] "He is as he appears."} [OOC: I wouldn't do this, but I've made a will save for you. DC 20: 15 fail.]
"And I see that his thoughts are twisted by poison," announces the Ambassador. "Get the Healer. At once" "Wynum Wordwind," he continues, "We have some respect for the Mithril Order, and would know more of that which you have spoken," his voice is gentle yet decided, clear yet quiet and calm. His eyes relax and he walks over to the left of Wynum. "Come, relax in here," he waves a hand at the wall and it dissolves into the floor to reveal a well lit room. The floor is littered with silk cushions, the wall draped with tapestries and exotic cloth. Warmth radiates into the hall from this room now that the wall has been opened. "We will remove the poison from you, and then you might talk clearly upon the subjects you have brought. It is well you came to us."
No sooner has Wynum found a space for himself then the Healer arrives. He walks in chanting in his language with his arms outstretched beside him, the palms up. He strides directly to the centaur, slowly bringing his hands together. He opens them above Wynum's torso and a light sprinkling of dust, glittering and sparkling dust falls and settles in his fur. Without looking directly at Wynum, the Healer completes his spell and rapidly retreats from the room. Wynum feels immediately invigorated. OOC: Your Strength is returned completely. "Give yourself a moment for your mind to clear of the poison." Minutes pass as the elves again remaining motionless. "Now, relax and take your time. We are in no rush despite the ways of Men. Please retell this information to us so that we may understand you."
Wynum d20=7 ; Monday February 8th, 2010 12:51:59 AM
(Listen 7. Huh.) Wholly entranced, Wynum follows as in a dream, which it might as well be. Not only he never stepped into such a place, but elves are deeply mysterious and intriguing for him.
While the elves wait, the centaur frowns, at first unable to understand what they didn't get from his tale. As he is thinking very hard, he actually appears very patient. Suddenly, he comes to, enlightened.
"I am sorry" he begins, "Indeed, in the company of men, I have spoken wrongly for the past few years."
Switching to his book-learnt, quaint sounding, but decently fluent elvish, he begins to explain, with a deliberate pace. He explains from the beginning, from his leaving the Taur Isles into the steppes and deserts, in search of something uncertain and away from his hometown. He then explains their encounter with the shapechangers, how they escaped, and how the very person they rescued sent them again to encounter these shapechangers (he claims), who escaped yet again. Marking a longer pause, he continues.
"High Lord, this is my story. All my life I have travelled far away from my home. All these years I have thrived to stray away from the destiny I despised. Yet it seems that I have always been advancing in that invisible path that had been laid for me."
He looks first at his naked self, for once free of any equipement, for once without the bow he reluctantly crafted and kept at his side, then he slowly advanced to the middle of the hall
"Now I stand in the middle of this maze. And I have left everything I held to. It is time for me to realize that it is not in far away journeys that I will find myself, but in this quiet place...." Gesturing empathically, he encompasses the whole room with his arms and gaze, then gathers them back slowly. Exercising his rejuvenated muscles, he rears up fully, and points his hands and chin to both his hearts, within his lean, muscular body. "I have been shown that shapes will change and elude me. Their path leads here: always it has been within me. I have reached the center of this maze now, I have reached who I am."
Now sporting an entranced, simultaneously feverish and serene gaze, he steps forward and gracefully bows. "My Lord. I am here as one of your kind forevermore. Please accept me henceforth as one of the elves."
Thar Monday February 8th, 2010 3:41:38 PM
Thar shares Ed's concerns about Wynum and Revi and says, "Good point... I'm not sure where they are either... " However, once Julian give him the information on Revi's destination, he feels a bit better... That doesn't answer the question of Wynum though...
Edmund Monday February 8th, 2010 6:52:50 PM
Learning of where Revi has gone, Edmund is relieved. He seems far less concerned about Wynum than the barbarian.
"I'm certain he's fine. Certainly large enough to take care of himself. Probably having a bath in a river--or whatever centaurs have baths in. Lakes, or something. No idea, really. Not much experience with them. But that's probably it--a bath. Where was the last place you saw him?"
Edmund also takes the time to explain a few things to the other members of the Order.
"About the protectives I told that gnome I put in place..." he begins. "Not done yet, actually. And there are some spells I want to buy from the Catacombs, now that we've sold all that junk we found. I'm astonished that the catacombs was willing to to take it all. I couldn't see the use of any of it! So, unless you need me, I may pip off for a bit of the morning. And then I'll be busy for a few days with my work. Not to be disturbed, mind. Unless it is very, very important. Think you can manage things?"
Julian Monday February 8th, 2010 8:00:49 PM
"I reckon Wynum's at Sampson's for breakfast. I hear that he eats like a horse. "I also think we should go out for breakfast, or lunch. It's been at least three days since we've been to Sampson's."
Ruby Monday February 8th, 2010 9:50:18 PM
Slipping down the stairs, he makes her way to the table with the rest. She is dressed in a dark blue robe and she sits to look at those assembled with a smile. Picking up a honey pastry she takes a bite after she pours some juice into a glass. "What is wrong?" She could not help but wonder with the vibes in the room.
Halfling Grigory Tuesday February 9th, 2010 12:32:37 AM
The Elven Ambassador appears as stoic as ever as Wynum bows before him. "You do, indeed, have a silvered tongue. And we do not doubt you in deed, for we know the deeds of the Mithril Order. I would welcome an alliance with such a group within this great city," he almost chokes on these last two words. He believes that it is a most amazing city, but it is difficult to say that out loud when his heart yearns almost audibly for the forest . "Not lightly is one bestowed with the honour of being an Elf, and it is beyond my authority to do so here amongst the buildings of Men. Not before have I learned of a centaur requesting such a gift, nor being one given, though the two races have worked closely previously, yet that was long, long ago, very far from here." "We shall digest this news. It is grave, very grave. The elves do not wish to see Plateau City overrun by shape-changers. We move in different circles, Elves and Men, and this enables us to help in different ways, ways that Men often overlook or cannot perceive. These thoughts need a good deal of time. "Return to us, a week from hence, and we shall talk further," he walks slowly towards Wynum, and something in his manner reminds the centaur that he is using the plural 'we' for himself, as people of high authority often do. "We shall retire now to consider. You should eat, rejuvenate and replenish. Your friends may be worried about you, as you came to us quite worn from a hard travel. Hopefully they have also returned to the city by now."
******************
Thar and Ruby and Edmund and Arm wander downstairs separately. Julian has not yet been upstairs on this day, and so he relates that Revi has headed for the Monster Preserve. Wynum's whereabouts are still unknown, and there seems to be varying levels of concern.
Julian has suggested that he might be at Sampson's and as hungry as a horse. The halfling also reminds his friends that they haven't been to that Cafe for several days, and he even offers to shout a meal there for the Mithril Order.
Lacking any other reasonable alternatives the party head to Sampson's Cafe on Riverside Road. Some expect a good feed at Julian's expense. Others hope to find Wynum here. And others yet may well have nothing better to do.
Plateau City is back to its usual busy self. The party pass dozens of people out on their own errands. Most of the people are the ordinary citizens that do all the real work within the city - carpenters, masons, butchers, scribes, merchants and vendors. Some of those passing greet the Mithril Order quite openly, and very happily too. Others stand back and watch, allowing them to pass, with large smiles brightening their faces. Three young teenagers run up to the group and wave with big toothy grins. The three girls stand there a second not knowing what to say, yet knowing that they want to talk to the Mithril Order. Suddenly giggling they run off hand in hand, reliving the moment immediately with each other: "I can't believe I really said hello to them," "I, like, tried to ask for an autograph but, like, my throat was choked up."
Two of Leipa Landlubber's taxiboats can be seen in the water near bridge off Market Square. A pair of squirrels chase each other through the small park as the party approach Sampson's Cafe. Seating themselves in their usual place the Mithril Order are soon greeted by Sampson himself. "So nice to have you back in our Quarter. I hear you've saved us from beer barons and spiders," he is genuinely grateful. "I've finally ordered the goods I needed from the Windhorn Hamlet, now that there's a safe passage again. By tomorrow night we should have quail eggs and squid roe arriving here. You should come again for breakfast the next day, it'll be delicious." The proprietor personally takes your order and delivers it within fifteen minutes. Several people are obviously talking about the party's presence in the cafe, whispers of "I told you that they eat here," and "but I thought that they would have hung round the Dragon groups on the other side of town," are filtered through to the party. A female elf approaches the party at their table. Trade Quarter
OOC: sorry for a little rail-roading here. This is the cue our new player, Robert, has been waiting for. Let's all include a bit about our character in the next few posts.
Zephyr Tuesday February 9th, 2010 8:28:14 AM
The human female who approaches is of average height and slim build. She has a dusky complexion and hooded, kohl-lined eyes that are the blue-gray of a stormy sea. Her dark brown hair is a mass of braids and drealocks, rings of metal interlaced around several of her locks. Her face is plain, if just shy of being pretty.
Surrounding her left eye is a tattoo of a scorpion, the body and pincers resting on her cheek with the stylized tail surrounding her eye. Small rings walk up the outside of both of her ears, and a small gold ring hangs onto one nostril. She is dressed in dark green trews, tight around the legs, her boots buckled up high to her shins, flat heeled and soft. Her dark green short-waisted jacket is made of dyed leather, the sleeves tight around her arms, her hands covered in glove of fine make, albeit fingerless. She walks with an odd floating gait. Against this ensemble is a plain looking belt made of rope around her waist.
She stands a moment, the heavy looking travelling pack hanging easy off of one shoulder, a crossbow the only evident weapon hanging from the pack. "I am looking for members of the Mithril Order." She speaks with a low voice, a slight accent to her speech. "I understand that you may know of them?"
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday February 9th, 2010 8:38:45 AM
Arm laughs heartily and shakes Sampson's hand, saying "Yes I suppose we did. It is good to see you again, my friend!".
When the stranger approaches their table, the bard is instantly alert, "We may, but then again they seem to be very well known in these parts. What is your interest in them?".
Thar d20+6=14 ; Tuesday February 9th, 2010 4:29:01 PM
Thar sits at the table next to Ruby and enjoys the conversation with their companions. He enjoys the rest and relaxation, especially since they've traveled and fought a great deal recently...
He sees the female come up and looks at her hair and facial markings. He lets Arm be their diplomat, but maintains a friendly expression, as the female hasn't yet presented a threat... Of course that could change...
He tries to determine if her motives might be deeper than they appear on the surface...
Sense Motive = 14
Zephyr Tuesday February 9th, 2010 5:06:57 PM
The woman looks over the seated half-elven man, then to the others at the table. "I've heard that the Mithril Order has chosen to stand for the good of others, to act as protectors where needed. I have chosen to follow similar goals, and to use my gifts in the service of Domi." She bows gracefully.
"I am called Zephyr, follower of the order of Domi, the Way of the Open Hand. And it is my wish to work with such an august company. If they are truly who the stories say they are," she looks down to the seated man, lifting one brow, "and not simply opportunists and braggarts."
Wynum Wednesday February 10th, 2010 12:07:20 AM
Having himself much to digest, Wynums heeds the advice of the ambassador. Bowing once again, he retires and, presumably under the guidance of someone, leaves the pyramid. His mind straight again, he heads back to the Manor. Fortunately, he knows very few places in Plateau yet, so he soon ends up at Sampson's, maybe guided by the rumors of the legendary Order eating epic eggs or something. He appears at the door, merely clad in a new, flowing, green cloak, embroided with an intricate pattern of leafs and vines. He takes some time to adjust to the light and admire the Inn and the glorious party interacting with the newcomer.
{Steamtraining a bit here. Feel free to stop me in my tracks... The timing is probably wrong but Wynum would end up with the Order one way or one other. If it's better if he's not there at this point, no problem..} DM Robert: that is fine Wynum. It is good to have everyone back together to meet Zephyr.
DM Post Wednesday February 10th, 2010 5:59:24 AM
Wynum wanders north from the Foreign Quarter, vaguely certain that the Manor would be that way from where he is. Soon at the water's edge he can see the Temple of Passion over the river and beyond a park. Slightly to the right he can make out Revi's potted trees on the roof of the Mithril Manor. He follows the river to the right till he crosses the next bridge. As he is about to cross the square he recognises the hearty laughter of Thar nearby. Following this brings Wynum to Sampson's Place. He arrives just behind Zephyr.
All eyes in Sampson's are on Zephyr and the Mithril Order as the awkward conversation grinds to a halt.
OOC: hmmmm. We really need a few more responces here for Zephyr. Give a good description of yourself physically in the next two posts, and try to reveal a bit more about your personality and role within the Mithril Order.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday February 10th, 2010 8:28:12 AM
The tall, slim elf brushes a wayward strand of his light brown hair behind one of his pointed ears and focuseshis gold-flaked green eyes more intently on Zephyr as he strokes his beard contemplatively. Anyone who is subject to one of these stares can tell that the bard possesses great intelligence, but also quite a bit of distrust, at least initially (with what was done to his family by the orcs no one can truly blame him).
Irritated a bit by the barb thrown at him, he nonetheless maintains his usual diplomatic posture and replies, "From what I've heard, the LAST thing the Order is are opportunists and braggarts. If you'd like to set up a meeting with them, we can try to arrange it for you.".
Zephyr Wednesday February 10th, 2010 11:34:41 AM
Sensing the presence behind her, the young woman turns slightly, quickly glancing up at the centaur with a slight nod of her head. She turns back to the seated elf. With a slight bow she continues, "Then you have my gratitude. I'll be taking my meal here then while I wait." She tosses her pack to an adjacent table, and pulling out a seat, sits back to wait, watching the table and its occupants with a half-smile.
Thar Wednesday February 10th, 2010 2:55:01 PM
(Thar is a young elf with a weathered face who keeps his hair cut short. He wears chain mail armor, obviously elven in manufacture, and carries a large bow. He wears a wooden cross as his holy symbol, but his clothes are made for blending into the outdoors with shades of green and brown. He has bits of dirt, branches and leaves on his clothes, since he tends to love being outdoors too. He's usually seen with a smile on his face, but that can change quickly to a frown if he's angry with someone... (He's a ranger/cleric))
Ruby Wednesday February 10th, 2010 6:02:47 PM
Seated at the table beside Thar was a young woman that had grown into her womanly form. She had filled out slightly with gentle womanly curves but still has that dancer's grace to her. Her coppery red hair was long almost to the middle of her back and loose at this time. Gray eyes glittered with interest as she watched the new woman as they talked. This day she was dressed in a simple green tunic and pants, with black boots that almost reached her knee. The one oddity being the ring that set upon her finger that she played with now and again as she watched Thar as well.
"Please join us till that can be done." She smiled at the other woman and pushed the plate of honey buns towards her that she was currently eating if she was hungry. The pitcher of juice was still cool and there was an extra glass as well that she motioned too. "Please feel free to eat."
I will get the CS updated with the money and then trying to see if there is anything needed to buy otherwise.
Julian Wednesday February 10th, 2010 6:37:29 PM
Julian sits at his two plates and waves a small hello of greeting to the Zephyr. His mouth is full of food at first, and so full that it takes a while before he can speak. "Hey Arm, I reckon the Mithril Order are usually friendly to people round here. They'd probably talk to her without much of a worry. They are more than capable of overpowering an individual, even without the Mistress of Blades in town. And are you gonna see Marie again?" He shovels some more bacon-and-sausage-on-pancake into his mouth, careful to not drip BBQ sauce on his three-piece suit. Julian has salt-and-pepper grey hair and large mutton-chop sideburns. His waistcoat has some intricate embroidery that is presently obscured by the halfling sitting at a Medium sized table.
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Wednesday February 10th, 2010 7:25:52 PM
Revi sat naked at the fire she built; Covered from head to toe in mud, on which many intricate druidic glyphs and sigils were marked upon, she sat motionless, praying. She thought to herself, I can't believe I have to do with for 24 hours, this sucks. Bleargh!
Zephyr Wednesday February 10th, 2010 7:30:52 PM
Zephyr nods to the woman. "Thank you for the hospitality. It has been a long walk to Plateau City." With that, she pulls a chair to the table, and sitting down, tears into a honeyed bun.
Wynum Wednesday February 10th, 2010 11:36:09 PM
It is an eerie sight to see the cloak-wearing Wynum moving deliberately and slowly towards the table. The Order is most used to his prancing around, jumping about and generally getting people sick. It looks like someone struck him with a Slow spell.
He also striked a haughty attitude, which doesn't quite fits his naked, lithe (for a centaur) but muscular body. Something is really wrong, or wronger, with this centaur.
However, as he nears the table, his curiosity springs to life, dispelling any doubts about his identity. Indeed, Zephyr's mention of travels seems to trigger something.
"Oh." he begins, in a weird, soft and cloudy voice, "travels, then? I am Wynum, most pleased to meet a fellow traveler." He appears sincere but remains rather motionless. "Where did your path take from... where your walk did travel...Errr, from where the path travelled your..." his soft voice begins to break apart as a teenager "I mean, from where you come!?"
Edmund Thursday February 11th, 2010 1:23:00 AM
Edmund makes his way over to the unfamiliar person who is asking about the Mithril Order, and introduces himself with an air of tremendous and ponderous pomposity, with one hand neatly tucked sideways into his weskit as he talks, the other resting upon his hip. He is immaculately dressed in absolutely spotless clothes in colours of midnight blue, gold, and white, and the overall appearance is one of resplendence and good taste. About him, there is also a faint scent of tea--crisp and light. Fair skin and slightly pointed ears give away that he is half-elven.
"Edmund Eustace Greenleaf the second, of the Windbourne Hills Greenleafs," he begins, "Supreme Archmage of the Mithril Order, Grand Magus, Incantori Primus, Most Excellent and Honourable Member of the Order of the Stars, Lieutenant of the Navy, Adventurer par excellent, preux chevalier, and Wizard-At-Large--though these are my just my most notable titles in these remotest parts."
"I am given to understand," he continues pontifically, "that you have been looking for the Mithril Order. You see now some large part of it before you. What then, pray tell, is the reason for your enquiry? Why do you seek us?"
Julian Thursday February 11th, 2010 4:13:47 AM
"Actually, we can all cast magic. Oh, hi Wynum. "But Magic is all Eddy can do. So I guess that does make him the Supreme Archmage... just don't ask him to do something mundane like boil the kettle. Though loves tea more than gold that sort of task is either beneath his royal highness, or it'll blow up. Hey Thar, show Zephyr your scar from when Eddy cleaned the parlour."
DM Robert Thursday February 11th, 2010 4:18:41 AM
The Mithril Order enjoy their first meal at Sampson's for nearly a week. Arm and Sampson chat lightly, with the proprietor remarking on the weather before asking him, "So, do you think young Caal stands a chance?" They are instantly interrupted by a teenage human female. "Dad! Your bat soup nearly boiled over. We still need you to work round here, you know!" She is not as tall as Sampson, and though she has her mother's looks she has her father's clear blue eyes. "Oh she can be so rude that one. Cheraka is her name, and I think I will need to implore you Arm to protect me from her as she gets older. Quite the temper comes with all those teenage changes." He marches back into his kitchen, each stride full of purpose.
It is understandable that the Mithril Order is paranoid when approached by a stranger. In the last few months they have been attacked by well known members of the Plateau City coucil. Or at least, dopplegangers had infiltrated the council, Constables Rabbitsfoot and Gormley noticed that something was wrong and the Mithril Order uncovered the shapeshifters and rescues the councilmen. One of the rescuees then asked the party to recover an heirloom that was lost in transit when a merchant cart was attacked by beerbugs and spumandirs. The heirloom was recovered and the enemy routed. Oddly, Lynom has not yet taken possession of his prize.
With Edmund's introduction the mood lightens. Cheraka saunters out from the kitchen and sourly sets a place for Zephyr. Her neck and cheeks are flushed with the embarassment of a reprimand.
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Thursday February 11th, 2010 5:13:19 AM
ooc: sorry Julian/Robert, Revi is not there, this is the same morning that she took off for 24hours to pray, so she won't be back until tomorrow. Robert: d'oh. It is an hour later and I just remembered that. I will edit it back to Thar.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday February 11th, 2010 5:42:06 AM
Arm sighs inwardly at Ruby and Ed's concessions to Zephyr, hoping to discuss the matter first before admitting their identity, then says, "I must apologize...yes, we are the Mithril Order. We've had quite a few problems with people not being who they seem, so I hope you'll forgive my deception. If you don't mind my asking, how did you learn about us?".
Zephyr Thursday February 11th, 2010 5:42:51 AM
Zephyr looks back to Arm. "It appears you know the Mithril Order slightly better than you led on," she says with a small smirk. She nods to Wynum. "I've travelled from the south, and I've been on the road for some years now."
She looks up the elf called Edmund and continued. "And I came seeking the Mithril Order because the closer I came to the City and this region, the more I have heard of a group of heroes who have fought time and again for the city and its people. That they seem to aspire to higher goals than mere profit. Those are my same goals. I've spent the last several years travelling where the road takes me, always using my gifts to help those where I can. It seems no coincidence that my travels finally take me here. It is my hope that you will consider allowing me to contribute to the work you are doing now, to let me prove that my words are not empty, and that I can be of assistance."
She finishes her juice after her short speech. "So, what do we do now?"
Thar Thursday February 11th, 2010 9:45:24 AM
Thar continues with his meal and at one point, takes Ruby's hand in his, smiles at her with a twinkle in his eye,and holds it during their meal and discussions...
He looks at Zephyr and says, "What you say sounds interesting, and you may be a good addition to our group. Tell me some about your skills and the assistance you offer. Like my friend Arm says, we've had similar offers that turned out to be traps..."
Zephyr Thursday February 11th, 2010 11:36:37 AM
"I am a follower of the Open Palm. My body itself is my weapon." She shrugged. "I can understand your hesistancy to accept just anyone into your fellowship. I would do the same in your position. What can I do to prove myself? Do you have a mission or quest that needs accomplishing? I'd rather not stoop to simply fighting one of you. That proves nothing about my motives or true abilities."
Wynum Thursday February 11th, 2010 3:51:21 PM
Zephyr's presentation seems to puzzle the centaur. To the onlookers, he may appear to be shamelessly scrutinizing her shapes. However, he also frowns a lot, and doesn't seem that attracted to the small human. After some time, he seems to make up his mind and speaks out with some authority.
"Indeed fighting would not be appropriatefor your trade. By the way, with no hooves nor horns, I hardly see how your body would qualify as a weapon. You're not even that edgy, but maybe you have some transformation magics I ignore. However, your skills as a merchant would certainly be valuable. What is that you trade in predominantly? If you have connections, indeed we have some mysteries regarding a caravan company that are in need of explanations."
Zephyr Thursday February 11th, 2010 4:09:34 PM
Zephyr spends a long few seconds to frown quizzically at the centaur. "I don't know what you're on about, but I am no merchant. Fighting is indeed not my 'trade'. I have trained for most of my adult life with the order of Domi, and I only use their training when I need to. I know no merchants or guilds. I am new to this city and these lands."
She stands, pushing her seat well back. "And what you can't see or tell about me suits me just fine."
Julian Thursday February 11th, 2010 4:52:00 PM
"Domi, hey. Yep, nice guy that one," says the halfling between mouthfulls. "I'm a Protector of Domi. I'll introduce you to the local temple later, if you like."
Zephyr Thursday February 11th, 2010 5:07:42 PM
She nods back to the halfling. "I would be thankful if you would." She looks about to the others, then back to the halfling. "So, are we going to dance around the topic or are we going to accept that I am speaking with the Mithril Order, since he," she points towards Thar, "let me know you all are who I am looking for."
Julian Thursday February 11th, 2010 5:13:14 PM
"Yep, as Eddy said, you see most of the Mithril Order here now. Sometimes Edmund's use of words is so out there, so formal, that he can be as difficult to understand as Wynum who speaks elven better than his mother's tongue."
DM Robert Thursday February 11th, 2010 6:59:25 PM Continuing the conversation... Sampson comes out bustling out with two plates full of food. He walks straight to Zephyr saying, "Sorry love, I didn't realise there was another Mithrilite coming for lunch," His voice projects strongly and clearly without the need to yell, probably through years of running a noisy kitchen. "And I didn't know if you're herbivore or carnivore," he winks to Zephyr as he makes his little joke, "so I brought one of each. And I figured the Halfling would eat the second one if you don't. That is, if you don't want both... "It's on the house, of course, as usual. We can't have the Trade Quarter's very own adventurers go hungry and without hospitality." The other patrons cheer and applaud this, for they too appreciate having some local heroes in their quarter. Most other adventuring parties live around the Dragon Quarter.
Arm has a sudden rush of butterflies in his stomach. It is nearly an hour since the noon-bells. He has a date at Two.
The mud begins to crack as it dries to Revi's skin. Her stomach rumbles. She has been quite still for a few hours now, and the insects believe that she has always been there like that. Natural energies are beginning to radiate from her through the ground, and trees around her respond in a gentle, conversational manner. Only another 18 hours to go to see if the ritual has worked.
.
OOC: Feel free to post as often as you like/can as we make Robert feel welcome. I am enjoying the quality of your roleplaying here, so lets have more of it.
Revi has asked to visit Memimma via email. Would anyone else like to accompany her to visit the mage in her rooms at the University of Magic? This would occur tomorrow game time.
Wynum Thursday February 11th, 2010 9:58:10 PM
"No doubt." The centaur sincerly responds to Zephyr's reaction. Eventhough he is not very perceptive, still he is sensitive to Zephyr's self-confidence and strong spiritual aura.
But he is disappointed to learn she's not a merchant, and explains: "Oh. Well I thought you said you came from the market", pointing his thumb to the Open Palm Market, just behind Sampson's. "So. It's time we test your mettle and morality. What about those plates? Boiled cabbage, seasoned lamb, or both?"
Edmund Friday February 12th, 2010 2:34:33 AM
Edmund remains standing, considering the response he has been given. After a few moments he folds his arms across his chest and peers down at the strange woman.
"You've travelled a very long way to join our Order," he says. "But how did you know your efforts would not be bootless? Perhaps we are amply provided with adventurers, being as they are hardly scarce in this day and age. And what proof can you provide of yourself--for we have seen dire things, aye, and grim. What sort of secure and stable organisation would we be if we let people into our close company with naught but a smile and a promise?"
"No," the wizard continues after a brief pause. "The Mithril Order you've heard of isn't this one. We have might sufficient and recruiting is currently closed. That is," Edmund says with a glint in his eyes, "unless you can show us the need we have of you, and also somehow demonstrate that you are worthy of our trust--not an easy task. Not an easy task. But we are men--and women--of perspicacity. Mayhap you have something planned? Surely, you would not have travelled all this way without some sort of plan."
Julian Friday February 12th, 2010 3:05:55 AM
"Ill be honest here Zephyr, and say that I don't always understand Eddy's big words, but whatever it was, I'm sure he's full of it." "Maybe, Ed, she can undertake the same you did to prove yourself. Or maybe the one I did, or for something really left field the task that Revi, Ruby or Wynum completed."
Zephyr Friday February 12th, 2010 5:22:12 AM
Zephyr lifts her chin slightly at Edmund's response. "I think it will take a long time to earn anyone's trust. But you have to start somewhere." Still holding Edmund's gaze, she tilts her head towards Julian at his contribution. "Provide me a task to complete, and I will do so. Otherwise, I suppose I have wasted my time in looking for the Order."
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Friday February 12th, 2010 9:05:42 AM
Arm clears his throat and speaks up, "Yes, please pay Ed here no mind....we rarely do. Rest assured that if you can prove yourself worthy, you'll have a place with the Order. Now, if you'll all please excuse me, I have another....ahem...matter to attend to.".
He then rises from the table and makes his way quickly back to the Manor, where he readies himself for his date with Marie.
Thar Friday February 12th, 2010 9:56:37 AM
Thar is thankful that Arm and Julian made up for Edmund's apparent lack of manners, and says, "As my friends said, you are welcome to join us, and how about we see how things go in the first few weeks, sort of a test period? If you and the Order think it's still a good fit after that time, then we can make it permanent. And in regards to my good friend Edmund, he means well but just doesn't always show it by his words. But in a fight, he's the man you want watching your back..."
He continues eating, while gazing lovingly at Ruby every so often...
Zephyr Friday February 12th, 2010 11:02:49 AM
"That would be acceptable," Zephyr responds back to Thar.
"And soup if they have it." She looks to Wynum. "The stink of boiled cabbage tends to linger about you, and lamb makes me sleepy." She gives a small smile.
She turns to the rest of the table. "I'll find an inn while I am here in the city. You all look as if you have business to be about. Where can I meet you tomorrow so you can have time to discuss my entrance to your group with any who may not be here?"
Julian Friday February 12th, 2010 3:21:41 PM
"No Zephy, you can't go off paying for an inn. We have too many empty bedrooms as it is. We take turns on cleaning the place, so another set of hands and one less bedroom to tidy would actually be appreciated. "Put the money towards a nice belt. I'm sure you can find something in the Open Palm Market just outside here. If not then the Foreign Quarter sells anything and everything just south across the river. "As for the task," Julian looks about before lowering his voice in a conspiring manner, "if I remember correctly it was to be able to eat all that Sampson offers. He tends to overdo his generosity. "Is there anything you need to do? I'm not at all busy, I'd be glad to show you around a little. There's the temple of Domi for a start. The Dragon Quarter is where adventurers hang about, and all the really fun shops and stalls are there, and particularly The Catacombs- yes, THE Catacombs!" Julian prattled on about some other if his favourite places and things to do, between mouthfuls of food - the Gladiator Park, the serenity of the Druid Quarter, Rabbitsfoot at the Constabulary Castle, the Cathedral of Light from riverboat. "Can I have your lamb then?"
Zephyr Friday February 12th, 2010 4:36:25 PM
Zephyr sits back down, pulling the chair closer. "That is very generous of you. I've gotten used to a square of flat ground and my bedroll for so long a true bed would seem a bit decadent. I wouldn't mind at all with pitching in to clean up. As my master was always find of saying, 'there is no better way to free the mind than by working the body'. Of course that was normally before a days list of chores were handed out."
As Julian's mention of her simple rope belt, she absently holds it, letting it fall out through her fingers. "I think I'll keep it." She has a small, strange smile. "It suits me." She takes a sip of the cool juice. "But I will take up on that offer of a tour. The Plateau City is the largest I've seen in an long time, and I love the idea of exploring every corner of it."
Julian Friday February 12th, 2010 4:53:44 PM
"I'm told it is the largest city in the Wold. I always find it fun to wander about, though there are places best avoided, especially when alone. There always seems to be something exciting going on somewhere."
Edmund Friday February 12th, 2010 7:14:15 PM
Edmund bristles slightly whilst the other members of the Order exercise their charms on someone who might be no more than a vagrant. With pursed lips, he magisterially lowers himself into a chair at the end of the table--perhaps the very same chair that he fell out of when he met Arm, Shadow, Conner, Kadaz, Mira, Ash, and Thar in that very place all those long ages ago. ((OOC: 12th June, 2006 in the archives if you want a trip down memory lane.))
The wizard has, of course, managed to forget most of the very unimportant facts of their original meeting--such as falling out of his chair, being covered in stew, and begging the adventurers to take him along. Suffice to say he remembers things differently; being begged to come along, being proffered the leadership of the group, and thereafter saving everyone from all manner of terrible evils, including vampires, spiders, bugbears, mummies, cultists, and liches.
Taking his tea and waving away the buns and other fare on offer, he sips from the cup quietly, one eye on the new woman whom the others are so eager to invite into the manor. Idly, he thinks to himself that he could probably put Magic Circles all over the manor, maybe even that very night.
Wynum Friday February 12th, 2010 8:50:39 PM
"So I'll handle the cabbage. The stink does not linger if one moves fast enough, you know. Speaking of which, where's Revi? Having fun with someone from last day?" Grabbing the plate, he suddenly remember to watch his demeanor and continues in a more sedate way. "Let's...let's eat, rejuvenate and replenish. I need to replenish. I think I will need time to...refocus. Do you think we have some? What about the councilman?"
DM Robert d100=11 ; Friday February 12th, 2010 9:30:11 PM Arm walks back to the Manor alone, though with a very light and happy gait. He even sings a little to himself, and performs some tummy-drumming as he walks through the door. He is rather excited. He makes ready for his rendezvous with Marie and heads out by quarter-to-two. He heads north from the Manor, up Shield Street and follows Riverside Rd upstream through the Rogue's Quarter to bridge on the far side of the Mask Market. Along the way he watches several young children playing happily in the streets barefoot and mothers working at their laundry, and teenagers jumping from the rooftops into the river. The place feels relaxed and carefree. It is a happy ambiance by day, though it turns to sinister lawlessness by night. Through the markets he is cajoled by every vendor to buy their wares. Crossing the bridge he can see "Taxiboats by Leipa Landlubber" painted on the side of a building which backs onto river. It has 5 pairs of double-doors that reach down below the water's surface. Two of these are open and inside Arm can see a group of three men working on one of the taxibarges in a small dry dock, whilst the other stands empty at the moment. Crossing the street he can see three houses which fit the description 'directly across from Leipa Landlubber's'...
*******************************************
The Mithril Order agree to Thar's suggestion of taking on the tattooed and dreadlocked woman on a trial basis - to be reassessed in a few weeks. This is a good idea as those who don't really fit in tend to drift away soon enough anyway. Naturally, Edmund doesn't share this view.
Sampson brings Zephyr some Soup-of-the-day (Carrot and Apricot with Ginger) as well as a side-dish of salad greens and a side dish of variously coloured unleavened breads. The aroma is fantastic and the taste is, perhaps surprisingly just as good. Wynum and Julian devour the other two plates he proffered the newcomer.
Due to some lingering tensions within the group, lunch at Sampson's ends before dinner begins (which is not always the way) and the party leave. Turning onto Riverside Road towards the market they are interrupted by an exotically dressed woman walking away from the market square. Following her is a long line of small people carrying her parasol, a wax tablet, and then stacks of parcels in their arms. She walks over the bridge and south away from the Open Palm Market.
Julian indicates to Zephyr that they are also going over that bridge to the Temple of Domi. The pair inadvertently follow the woman and her entourage into the Outcast Quarter.
Walking down Goblin Trail they pair pass all the unusual 'people' of Plateau City; an ettin sobbing on his own doorstep being consoled by a gnome, an elf with four arms sweeping cobwebs from the front windows using two brooms as his four-armed children sing to him in harmony from the upstairs windows, and a teenaged minotaur flying recklessly down the street on a minature flying carpet. Monk Street has more people moving about in their normal daily routines. The woman and her troupe continue ahead and turn down The Hob Run, while Julian and Zephyr stop outside the ruins of the War Cathedral of Domi. Once a grand place of worship and protection, now it lays open to the elements. This, however, does not mean that it is empty. Within the ruins, huge areas lie cleaned and open to the sky. Clerics, monks, and paladins are trained here learning the inner personally meanings of courage at the School of Defense. Even though the ruins do not contain a temple, this location is probably the most attended on Godsday for worship and encouragement. Julian explains all this in his casual and longwinded country manner, finally asking, "Would you like to go in to speak with the clerics?"
**********************
Thar, Ruby, Edmund and Wynum return to the Manor. A dwarf awaits them by one of the pillars at the front door. He wears an expensive suit and matching bowler hat.
"Ah, the Mithril Order. I think I just missed another of your party. He walked north at quite a brisk pace. I thought it better to wait for others than to pursue him. I am Krasha son of Neek, Councilman Lynom's secretary. It is a pleasure to meet you.
"Lynom has been in the Floating City these last three days. Having returned has has learned of your successful venture from Wil Komen, and would like to meet with you as soon as possible. I have suggested an hour before noon tomorrow as I know that he is not busy at that time. Would this suit you?"
Edmund d20+12=32 ; Saturday February 13th, 2010 2:42:45 AM
Edmund racks his brain, and is fairly certain that he has seen that woman and her retinue before, he tries to remember everything he can of her, and is grateful (once again) that his family is well-respected in political circles. (Knowledge Nobility/Royalty=32, Natural 20!)
Once they run into Lynom's aide at the manor, Edmund finally smiles again. Finally, someone he can deal with appropriately. With florid words, he indicates that the desired hour is absolutely acceptable and that, "the Mithril Order is honoured to be of service to one of the city's most respected and admired councilmen, and we look forward to returning the desired artefact directly."
Having thus dispensed with the tasks that he is most capable of, Edmund proceeds into the manor directly and heads straight to his room. He has some work to do.
Wynum Saturday February 13th, 2010 10:46:23 AM
Wynum salutes the aide and does not make further comments. Once inside (depending on other actions from other PCs), however, he wonders aloud. "Returned? Three days? Did I hear that he was away just as we were? I am more than ever partisan of having this item carefully checked {OOC: some Cat confusion meant it wasn't actually IDed back then}. It certainly has nothing peculiar, but that alone is notable. If you don't mind, I think I'll have it checked."
Edmund Saturday February 13th, 2010 2:11:46 PM
Edmund objects strenuously.
"I do mind. If you want to have it checked, we'll get his permission first. I'm not about to disobey the instructions of a town councillor, who did not speak lies to us when he gave us this task. I'll tell him there's some faint magic about it, and if he wants it identified, then we'll identify it."
"Remember," Edmund continues irritably, "that the item is not yours, does not belong to you, and is only in our keeping because we were asked to find it; and moreover, specifically asked not to identify it."
Zephyr Saturday February 13th, 2010 3:02:56 PM
Zephyr shakes her head at Julian's question. "Not today. I would like to come back at some point to that open area. That looks like a fine place to stretch and practice my forms. Perhaps I might be able to find another of Domi's followers who have also chosen the path of the Open Hand to practice against."
She gestures vaguely towards their environs. "This is certainly a wonderous city. I can see why the Mithril Order has made this their home. It would seem you want for little. But eventually, does all this get a little..." she shrugs before continuing, "distracting?"
Julian Saturday February 13th, 2010 4:16:23 PM
"Distracting, yes. I long for the long walks through the forests looking for truffles, laying still for hours hunting game for dinner, half-snoozing by the riverbank just watching the clouds slowly form and change shape. I miss a simple hearth-home dug into a hillside. I miss my siblings and Ma and Pa. The Manor's garden helps a lot, but it is still in the middle of the Wold's greatest city. "But Domi has asked me to look out for others, to stand up for the little guy. I live and work with the Mithril Order to right the wrongs, and better yet, we are often able to prevent bad things from happening, or to nip it in the bud. "So," changing the subject, "this is the Outcast Quarter. You can get ANYTHING you want here, more so than in the Rogue's Quarter. Rabbitsfoot has to close the Markets regularly, arresting a few key suppliers of illegal goods. The Market reopens within a week, and someone takes over the supply and Rabbitsfoot hunts them down all over again." He flits to a new topic as quickly as a badger chooses different prey in an abundent stream, "Do you swim? D'wanna have some fun? We can go back to the Manor the fun way, or we could walk..."
Zephyr Saturday February 13th, 2010 11:56:07 PM
Zephyr gives the halfing a small smile. "Let's walk. I still have yet to get my bearings, and I'd like to get more of a sense of this city, if you don't mind."
Thar Sunday February 14th, 2010 10:46:24 AM
Thar stays out of the argument re: identifying the item, though he does favor identifying it. "Forewarned is forearmed, and we've ran into too many things that aren't what they appear..." he says...
To the dwarf, he repeats Edmund's comment and simply says, "I look forward to meeting with him too. We will see you then..."
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday February 15th, 2010 9:00:21 AM
Arm's good mood darkens for just a moment when he sees the three possible choices for him. Thinking for a second, he decides on the middle one and knocks smartly on the door.
Wynum Monday February 15th, 2010 11:00:34 AM
The Centaur rubs his chin. "But you're usually quite cautious, Edmund, and in this case, things aren't clear. We've agreed to retrieve a family heirloom, to be worn in important occasion. He also told us it could have protected him. And we find a very plain item. What if it was replaced with a copy by Mettik and Chloe? Then we wouldn't actually have the heirloom, and we'd be quite well advised to identify it. I don't like this whole story. What you think?"
Edmund Monday February 15th, 2010 1:16:30 PM
"He told us the item was very plain in the first place," Edmund replies. "And we will tell him these things, of course. If he is suspicious and wants it identified, he will ask us--but the item does not belong to us and we have specifically been asked to leave it be. I'm not going to be party to a complete abdication of his request unless you can bring some pretty sturdy evidence that shows why we shouldn't trust him--and your vague suspicions don't quite qualify."
"I don't mean to be obstinate--" the wizard continues, before halting. "No, actually, I do. Disobeying his instructions is not an honourable course. Suspicions should be reported to him first--not acted on first. The item belongs to him. It does not belong to us. We have been given handling instructions and I intend to see them followed. Full stop."
DM Post Monday February 15th, 2010 9:07:26 PM Revi can feel the hum of nature returning her call, as well as the three beetles that have landed on her.
Arm knocks on the middle door. No-one answers. He knocks again. Nobody responds. He has a chill run through his spine as though a ghost ran up behind him and whispered, Highlight to display spoiler: {I, too seek my lover. Dragons are ever foiled in love.}
Julian and Zephyr walk casually back towards the Manor. Julian suggests going through the Foreign Quarter, into the Castle then Wealthy Quarters before crossing the river.
Edmund wracks his brain regarding the woman who cut across the party's path with her own entourage. Nothing springs to mind. She certainly maintains all the wealthy trappings of the nobles, but she is not known to Edmund as a member of the nobility or royalty. Shawn Highlight to display spoiler: { the natural 20 can't be wasted though. If we apply that to a Knowledge (Local) roll Edmund would have heard that she is Haldasia, the self styled queen of the Hob Run, a high class and very expensive shapeshifting Lady of the Night. It is something that a Bard would have known. Does Edmund know of her?}
Wynum's paranoia might be getting the better of him. Edmund puts his foot down regarding the Identifying of the heirloom. Thar meekly agrees. Ruby vanishes into her room as the discussion is raised. Revi, Julian and Zephyr abstain from voting through absence.
A flat top wagon arrives at the Mithril Manor. It appears to be made of glass, and moves of its own accord. A well dressed gnome leaps from the driver's seat and scurries up to the front door of the Manor. Three separate sacks follow him, floating and bobbing along in the air behind him. Knock-knock. Knock-knock. Knock-knock. With each double tap on the door one of the bags drops to the ground. The gnome skips down the steps and deftly jumps back into his seat. "Catacombs calling!" he shouts back as the wagon moves off south down Helm's Way. The three bags are each labelled: one with Thar, another Wynum, another Revi.
Ruby Monday February 15th, 2010 9:32:30 PM
Ruby had found herself moon eyed over Thar for most of the morning and most of that time had been spend holding his hand. She also spent most of her time staring at times though she did try to keep some attention on the others as well. Talking with the new girl was interesting and she would be quick to want her to stay with them at the Manor.
She was still holding his hand as they returned but she was able to listen to the dwarf that was speaking. Her eyebrow rose slightly and she nodded her head as she glanced to Thar. "Sounds like a good idea."
Wynum Monday February 15th, 2010 11:30:49 PM
Seeing that his worries do not seem to be shared by the party, Wynum is somewhat reassured. The delivery, however, takes him by surprise. Rumaging through the loot bag he unfolds a large fancy cloak, which he looks at quizzicaly. "Mmmm. I shouldn't drink before going to the Catacombs. I wonder if I can return it."
Sighing, he goes to one of the Manor's remote room, and begins refocusing, and maybe venting some frustration on a project, crafting two dozen arrows {Will be finished tomorrow before the meeting}.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday February 16th, 2010 5:38:44 AM
Arm shudders as he feels the chill and hears the voice, "Mira?" he whispers. He looks around him, but sees no one. He fingers the amulet that his former lover gave to him, and feels no little twinge of guilt about his relationship with Marie. "Stop it!," he silently chides himself, "She's not here, and after all this time, she's not coming back. She's moved on with her life, and I need to do the same.".
Trying his best to bury his guilt, he moves to the house to his right (the third in line) and knocks on the door.
Thar Tuesday February 16th, 2010 9:17:17 AM
Thar's surprised as the wagon arrives, but assumes that they must be associated with their orders. He takes the bags and brings them into the open room, and hands each out...
He checks in his bag, ensuring that they are just what he ordered...
Finally, since they have some time before the meeting, he says to Ruby, "We've got a few hours and would you like to go somewhere quiet and talk about our wedding? I'm not sure when you'd like to have it, but I want it to be something special and wonderful for you."
Edmund Tuesday February 16th, 2010 12:39:10 PM
Back at the manor, Edmund busies himself in the making of tea. A prestidigitation spell, carefully employed, helps to speed the process along. In due course, with a steaming cuppa in hand, the wizard finds a chair in the common room. Then, he remembers the lady from earlier in the day.
"Queens!" he says aloud to himself. "Well, if harlots can be queens."
Knowing this information doesn't seem to help much--though he does idly wonder about her shape-shifting abilities. Memories of dopplegangers pass through his mind, and Edmund ponders whether they are connected, before giving up the consideration on grounds of lack of information.
"No good suspecting every shape-shifter in the Wold," he mutters to himself before taking a sip of his tea. "Innocent until proven guilty, I say."
Ruby Tuesday February 16th, 2010 6:14:48 PM
Glancing over to Thar she smiles and nods her head. "I have not even had the chance to speak to Edmund yet either." She had forgotten about that with all the excitement.
"We really do need to think about it though and how soon of a date should we be looking at?" She blushed slightly though as she thought about it. A wonderful date would be hard to come up with exactly but she did want something special.
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Tuesday February 16th, 2010 9:15:34 PM
All was in tune... the wind, the earth, the creatures of the land. Revi felt light, light as the wind; her hair stiff with mud, like the branches of a tree; Her breath, the whispering wind, ebbed and flowed from her as her senses continued to reach out. Her mind was acutely open and she felt light-headed--maybe because she was dying of thirst and hunger. Damn.
DM Post Wednesday February 17th, 2010 1:38:04 AM
Ruby says it is a good idea to meet with the owner of the heirloom. Thar suggests that he and Ruby go for a walk to talk about the wedding OOC let me know where you want to head, and I shall describe it for you, as part of my tour of the city.
Wynum is relieved when he realises that his concerns are not shared by the rest of the party. Maybe it is just a taur thing.
Edmund chatters to himself about queens and harlots. He uses his magic to make a single cup of tea, in a house full of people. The spilt milk must have been from Revi, he thinks, as his infalliable magic wouldn't have done that...
Revi is bitten on the big toe by a small black ant.
Arm moves along and knocks again. His shoulders shudder involuntarily at the memory of the phantom voice. The door is opened by the platinum-haired Halfling, Julian's friend, what's-her-name. "Hello Arm," she chirps brightly. "You've come by to fill my coffers with your coin, right?" She winks at him and waves him to come inside. "Marie is upstairs. Grab yourself a seat in the kitchen there," indicating an archway to the right, "There's some broken up muffins and cookies in the tin on the blue set of shelves. But," she calls back as she runs up the stairs, "I don't reckon you came here for a piece of muffin." The inside of the house is sturdy and clean, but in need of repainting, at the least. The stairs are worn in the middle, and creak as the Halfling ascends. The archway into the kitchen has several chips in it. The kitchen is cluttered with assorted furniture, and many of the drawers and cupboards are labelled with peoples names. The stairs creak again with a person descending. Marie skips into the kitchen, her face aglow with a big smile. She shrugs her shoulder in a happy way and says "Hi."
Julian and Zephyr continue walking their way through the different quarters. OOC details and scenery to come...
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday February 17th, 2010 6:02:01 AM
Arm smiles at the halfling's comment, "If you only knew...." he thinks. His smile broadens as Marie enters the room. He "rises" and says, "Hi, yourself...so what would you like to do today?".
Zephyr Wednesday February 17th, 2010 6:53:21 AM
As they walk, Zephyr asks more of the Mithril Order. "I have heard so much of the group, and the great things they have done, and you've told me I've met just a few of the members. Without 'divulging' too much, the stories I've heard never single anyone else. Can you tell me more of your friends, anything I should know so I don't accidently step on any toes?"
Thar Wednesday February 17th, 2010 3:18:07 PM
Thinking of someone to go on their walk, Thar says, "How about we stroll through the neighborhood around our manor? I've been wanting to see the sights and especially the woods behind us."
He checks the clock to see how much time they have before their appointment .... (???)
Finally, he says (while blushing), "I'm thinking of doing our wedding in a few weeks, maybe after we find out what the council member wants? On the other hand, we could do it earlier if you'd like... I'm just happy that you've agreed to make a family with me."
Edmund Wednesday February 17th, 2010 8:28:48 PM
Meanwhile, back at the Manor, Edmund enjoys the manifold wonders of tea, magically prepared.
((OOC: Sorry for the short post. Not much to say at the moment, and not much time to type anyway.))
Ruby Wednesday February 17th, 2010 10:16:27 PM
With a grin she nods her head and smiles as she watches Thar. "I would love to see the area around the manor." It would be an interesting walk and the woods out back seemed to call to her even. She blushes slightly though as she agrees.
"I can wait a week to see what the council members are going to do." She blushed again though and then smiled. "That is what I want with you."
DM Post Thursday February 18th, 2010 3:36:05 AM
It is the afternoon. Still full from a hearty meal at Sampson's, Edmund enjoys some tea time to himself. Wynum gets stuck into crafting some pointy sticks. Thar and Ruby head out hand in hand for a leisurely walk around the Quarter. Julian and Zephyr enjoy a relaxed amble through the city on their way back to the Manor. The Trade Quarter, as Thar and Ruby see it, is where the middle class live. Families live comfortably with one or both parents working, generally with their hands. Artisans and labourer, clerks and cleaners make up most of the population here. Children wave to Thar enthusiastically, remembering him for some small healing. Parents wave with heartfelt appreciation of the same deeds. Zephyr and Julian amble slowly past the unusual buildings of the Foreign Quarter. The Abandoned Pyramid is still a marvel to behold, despite the years of neglect. The Outcast Castle is a hive of activty even though it is officially vacant. The river bustles and burbles under the bridge and three taxibarges pass before the pair land in the Merchant Quarter. One of Rod's Reliable Transports races past threateningly close to the halfling. They return to the Manot just after Thar and Ruby leave.
The beginnings of sunset throws pink hues across the sky. Tomorrow Lynom will vist at Eleven Bells.
"Do you like water?" Marie asks Arm, taking him by the hand back through the door to outside. She looks up and down the street, "I like water a lot. I can't get enough of it. There's two really fun water spots here, it's such a great city. Do you want the relaxed water or the awesome fun? You've been in the city a while, right? You've probably done both of them thousands of times... still, I want to do one now, with you. Lake or River?" She almost drags him east along the road.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday February 18th, 2010 5:34:47 AM
Arm allows himself to be led around my Marie, not minding it in the least. Admiring her childlike enthusiasm, he says, "I think I shall opt for the relaxed water of the lake right now, if that's OK with you.".
DM Post Friday February 19th, 2010 4:17:58 AM
Marie leads Arm excitedly across the river then East into the Druid Quarter. This is a most wonderful park, wild animals seem to have been domesticated by the Druids. The plants appear to be growing in an uncultivated manner, and yet closer inspection reveals such harmony as rarely occurs in nature. The pathways through the park are organic in appearance, and perhaps they truly are despite this park being contained within the Wold's greatest city. As she walks Marie tells Arm of some of the waterfalls she has visited, and how she loves to bathe in the cool mist and spray on a hot summer's day, swimming sky-clad beneath the moon in the water. "I particularly love how the waterfalling blocks any other sounds, the water blocks any other sense. It becomes just you, the water and someone special." She slips off her skirt and blouse and wades into the druid's lake. Now waste deep she calls, "Come on," and dives under the water. She doesn't resurface.
Thar and Ruby wander around the quarter. They see the business of those who need to work for a living. Families are well-to-do and prosperous here, and even the children maintain a very busy schedule with their various educations. "Ho! Mithril Order, hello," calls a busy looking halfling rushing by. "How are you? Can't talk now. Great to have you back in the city. I might have some work for you soon. I'll drop by if it develops further. I have to keep moving. Nice to see you two." Rabbitsfoot abruptly moves on, heading back towards the Merchant Quarter. Three young constables, human, elf, and minotaur, follow him, and they smile and nod greetings towards Thar and Ruby as they carry small boxes and crates for the halfling.
Julian relates some small tales of the Mithril Order to Zephyr. OOC: to help integrate Robert I want each player to share a small tale about their character, just a few lines - a single event or a habit or characteristic of your player. Thank you.
Edmund enjoys the luxuries of the Manor, and chuckles to himself as he pictures Revi dancing in the mud covered with insects. Wynum interupts Edmund's enjoyment with his tapping and scraping as he manufactures two dozen arrows. That and his hooves on the floor as he walks about.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Friday February 19th, 2010 8:51:03 AM
Arm's mood has never been as good as it is now, until he sees that Marie hasn't surfaced from the lake. Quickly stripping off most of his clothes, he dives in after her to see if she needs help.
Thar Friday February 19th, 2010 3:26:07 PM
Thar enjoys walking with Ruby and wonders what their future family may look like and how many they'll be blessed with... Will they follower their parent's lead and be adventurers or will they take a more domestic approach to life? As they walk, he says hello to Rabbbitsfoot, as well as the other constables, children, families, etc. It's basically a nice day to go on a walk...
He asks Ruby how she'd like the ceremony to go, what he and Arm should wear, that he'd like to get married in the church, etc. He's new to all this but wants it to be the perfect wedding for her...
Re: Thar's background, he was originally a ranger who enjoyed living in the forested areas, but felt the call to priesthood later in life... His "call" is to crush out evil wherever he can find it... He's a friendly sort of PC and prefers to be with others rather than a solitary life, which is unusual for an elf. He has a small church nearby where he checks in with the lead priest, but doesn't have weekly obligations for worship, etc. He's not a pacifist and actually enjoys a good fight, especially if it deals with evil creatures. Finally, he has a penchant for summoning monsters in fights, and likes to be creative in what he summons and how he uses them, such as when he recently summoned three bears into a bar in order to avoid a fight and protect the honor of Ruby and Revi (not that they need any protecting, but it's still a guy thing...).
As the resident minister for the Mithril Order, he does his best to watch over the spiritual and emotional health of the rest of the party, and truly enjoys being around each of them.
Ruby Friday February 19th, 2010 7:20:13 PM
Ruby allowed her head to dip down and lay on his shoulder as they walked along. Her thoughts were filled with many pleasant ideas which included kids and a place of their own. She talked to the people that she did know and found herself introduced to a few new ones that she did not know. She was enjoying herself that was for sure and she did not feel bothered for once about anything.
She had suggestions for many of his questions, like him wearing new priestly vestments if he wanted or a black suit to match her white gown she planned on. The idea of getting married in the church was fine with her and if he had one specific that he wished.
She shares extra stuff about herself that she has not mentioned to anyone else in the order, things she has not talked about for a long time. The death of almost her whole family at the hands of some ancient evil. How she holds an artifact from the time of the Teucri and some of her other family hold the same. That they split to hide from this enemy and she is the last of her line that could be in contention for control of Plateau City. How Fort Silence use to be her home before it was razed to the ground and she has not been back since to see it.
DM Post Saturday February 20th, 2010 5:34:16 AM
An aged druid, one of the caretakers of the Druid Quarter stands watching Marie and Arm from his favourite locale within the park. He is less than 2 feet from Arm though the bard is completely oblivious to the presence of the druid. He watches as Marie sheds her clothing carefully in front of Arm before slipping beneath the surface, and as Arm, panicking, strips down quickly and also dives into water. The druid chuckles to himself for the briefest of moments, having seen this game before. OOC: waiting on Arm's Spot check.
It is just starting to get dark. Edmund and Wynum have both begun to think about dinner, or rather, hoping that the other would make it for them. Zephry and Julian arrive back at the manor at the same time as Thar and Ruby return, each expecting that Wynum or Edmund (preferably Wynum) has begun to make dinner.
Julian shows Zephyr into the kitchen, then he suggests that Ruby might help her to choose a bedroom while Edmund explains the household chores. "Since there's nothing baking already, I'm going out to see if Selithe has something cooking. Don't wait up for me. Is there anything important I need to do tomorrow?"
Revi sits still, and still sits in the forest. Small pangs of doubt cloud her thoughts. She has the mental image of a bearded man with a pony tail in a Hawaiian shirt, rolling dice at a miniature screen with one chart labelled Wandering Monsters (Temperate Forest), and another labelled Summon Animal Companion Results (d%).
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+9=27 ; Saturday February 20th, 2010 8:22:13 AM
OOC: Spot check from yesterday-27
IC: Arm searches frantically for Marie, thinking, "NO! I will NOT lose another...not THIS time...".
Zephyr Saturday February 20th, 2010 10:56:34 AM
Zephyr nods to Julian. "Thank you for taking the time to show me around the city. It is truly magnificent. I look forward to learning more of its secrets." She smiles to Ruby at Julian's suggestion. "Are you sure that's wise? I can easily get a room in any of the inns. How about I return tomorrow morning, when all of you have had a chance to discuss whether or not I'd be welcome? I get the feeling that not all of you were as welcome as Sir Julian."
Wynum Saturday February 20th, 2010 11:15:02 AM
Fletchery being mostly whittling pieces of wood, this leaves much time to ponder one's life, especially when it has been in upheaval. Having completely forgotten diner, Wynum is fully entranced.
This manual labor has a deep meaning for the centaur, and it's not that he would fixate on archery. It is not a mystical, but a very troubled personal and historical connection, which harks back to his young age in the Isles. Trying on the arrow on his hand-crafted bone compound bow, he whispers with a smirk, adressing his faraway mother.
"Yes, dam, a bow. But not quite this bow you wanted me to carry and draw. It's the path I made for me, the weapon I choose... it's my father's bow."
Brandishing the weapon to the ceiling, he adds, triumphantly. "An elven bow."
Edmund Saturday February 20th, 2010 2:23:27 PM
Listening to the sounds from downstairs, Edmund is firmly convinced that Wynum is hard at work chopping carrots for a hearty stew. As the hours wear by, the wizard becomes increasingly hungry.
Nevertheless, he remains as patient as he can, attending himself to his spellbooks and continuing his research--interrupted only occasionally by the rumbles of hunger from his stomach.
Thar Sunday February 21st, 2010 12:00:02 PM
Thar continues discussing their wedding plans as they arrive back at the manor. "Yes, I think a black suit would go well with your dress, though I could never match your beauty," he says with a grin. "I'll go speak with the rector at the temple to YHWH and see f we can schedule it for a month from now. That way, you and I will have time to get our clothes ready, as I'll need both Arm and my sizes for the tailer. Also, that'll hopefully give us enough time to find out what the city official wants us to do for him."
To Zephyr, he says, "No, I think you should stay with us. Since you've been seen traveling with us, you're a potential target for those who oppose the good we've been doing. We've recently had the manor refurbished and our guest rooms are well suited to your needs. Furthermore, hospitality is important to my faith, especially in caring for strangers that may become friends."
Ruby Monday February 22nd, 2010 1:53:31 PM
Ruby was having fun, not only spending time with him but also talking about their wedding. With a smiles she nodded her head and then laughed. "Thar you will look handsome in whatever you wear. It will be nice though to see you dressed up in a suit for our wedding though." Blushing slightly she nods her head though as she thinks about her comment and what she could like to see him wearing.
"A month from now will work out good for us. We can get things settled for a little while and then focus on us a little more." With a though she smiled again as they drew close to home again. "I need to see Edmund as well." Though she was reluctant to part with him she moved away from him after they got back inside and then up the stairs to knock on Edmund's door.
She felt a little nervous of course but she was asking for a big favor and she hoped he would agree.
Edmund Monday February 22nd, 2010 3:02:07 PM
Edmund hurries over to the door, fully expecting it to be Wynum or someone else with a tray of food. When he opens the door and sees Ruby, however, his excited and expectant look falls from his face with shocking haste.
"Oh," he says with unhidden disappointment. "I thought it was dinner. Yes?"
DM Post Monday February 22nd, 2010 7:02:11 PM
Arm spots his girlfriend some 30' down below him. She has paused to look back and beckons him to join her deeper down into the lake. That water is surprising warm and comfortable. Marie seems calm, and even excited, despite the depth to which she has swam.
Thar and Ruby talk about setting a date for a wedding, a month from today. What, no engagement party first?
Julian wanders off in the hope of an easy meal. Edmund expects dinner to be delivered to his door, though instead it is Ruby come to ask a favour.
Zephyr is finally convinced to stay in the Manor. Rather than a large common meal as often happens everybody attends to their own needs. The place feels different tonight with Julian and Revi absenting themselves, though Zephyr fills some of that void in a pleasant and new way.
The evening passes with relaxed, casual conversation and some red wine.
Councilman Lynom is due to arrive at Eleven, and Revi should return sometime tomorrow as well. Is there anything that needs to be done before he arrives?
Zephyr Monday February 22nd, 2010 8:43:00 PM
Zephyr won't say not a gift offered twice. Thanking Thar, she asks him for tour of the hall. She marvels at its size as they walk around the large building. "Would you mind telling me the story of how you all came to own this manor house?"
DM Robert: That's a question I would really like to hear the answer to.
Ruby Monday February 22nd, 2010 10:12:06 PM
For the first few seconds after the door opened she is slightly in shock and just a little disappointment. She had not expected him to be overly thrilled to see her but she also did not expect to see his disappointment either. "I had a question for you but if this is a bad time I can come back later?" His look was enough to put her off her game as she felt a little unliked maybe by him. Maybe Thar had been wrong about him and he might not be the one to ask after all.
Standing there she was still a little too stunned to speak more or move away. The look on her face was one of pain and hurt but it was slowly being covered over by resignation to a dawning fact. She was still an outsider and she had never really understood Edmund that well.
Wynum Monday February 22nd, 2010 11:30:06 PM
Coming up to sip some wine and eat a few fruits, with remarkable moderation, Wynum is quite silent and serene. Having not been in this place for long, he too listens carefully to Thar's explanation about the Manor.
(OOC: Wynum's craft job will occupy him until the meeting with the councilman - with time to sleep, though! So I have no further thing to do. I'm not rolling skill checks because that's not needed for this task.)
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday February 23rd, 2010 5:23:36 AM
Arm shakes his head and points back up, as he is rapidly running out of air. He surfaces and waits for Marie to join him.
Thar Tuesday February 23rd, 2010 2:39:26 PM
Thar smiles back at Ruby and departs after a passionate kiss. He takes some time to go pray for guidance and give thanksgiving for Ruby and the rest of his companions.
Once done, he goes out to the main waiting room and starts thinking of an engagement party, who to invite, etc. He's not real good at this sort of thing, so he decides that his best man would be the person to see, being a bard and all...
Zephyr Tuesday February 23rd, 2010 4:09:55 PM
And Zephyr watches as everyone goes about their business, seemingly blissfully ignoring the new person in their midst. "So...I guess I'll.. just," she pokes a thumb over her back towards the center of the manor. "Do...whatever..." With a resigned sigh, she finds the proferred room, then, dropping off her gear, she walks to the open area in the back of the manor.
She takes off her jacket in the light of the dusk, her tight, sleeveless silken green shirt more prominently displaying her slight curves more than the jacket had. She hangs it to one side, then, with her face towards the setting sun, settles her breathing to center herself. She then begins the long, slow movements of the form of the dragon, its long sweeping gestures with her legs mimicking the sweeps of a dragon's tail, her hands, the base of her palms touching and her fingers spread, looking like the maw of the beast as she slowly and carefully sweeps and strikes, the blood flowing through her limbs, freeing them up from a long day's walking.
Zephyr closes the form, her movements faster now as she pace speeds up, going through the form again. Long minutes pass as she walks through the closing movements only to start again, this time her sweeps and strikes faster. She repeats this again, then once again, until her arms and strikes are a blur of motion, the snap of her legs occasionally leaving behind a small 'pop' in the air. Her face has an intent inward gaze, and this movement is not only her body being trained through the years to rely solely on its own memory without her concious thought, but to also free her mind, to deepen her meditation through this complex and deadly dance.
She stops, her final strike leaving her low and crouching, as she smoothly closes the form for a final time. She bows towards the south, towards some unseen destination, then picks up her jacket, her breathing deep and steady, a sheen of sweat on her face and arms, causing the shirt to cling even more tightly to her. She has a happy look on her face and her eyes are gleaming as she heads back to her room to wash up...
DM Post Tuesday February 23rd, 2010 6:02:10 PM
OOC: I am going out for most of the day, so I am posting early. Keep up the quality roleplay, I am enjoying it.
Marie laughs at Arm's panic and beckons him to dive deeper. Arm, make a Bardic Knowledge check DC 10 to Highlight to display spoiler: { Quite a few people know that the lake of Serenity is in the north central area. It is magicked so that no one can drown there. Many, therefore, love to swim its waters. Others simply like to sink to the bottom and watch the beautiful fish.}
Zephyr excersies on the rooftop, Ruby tries to broach a sensitive subject with Edmund, and Thar attempts to begin organising an Engagement Party. Julian seeks food and comfort on the other side of the city, and Wynum whittles the time away.
Edmund Tuesday February 23rd, 2010 10:10:28 PM
"No, no," Edmund replies quickly. "I just thought it was dinner. I've been waiting for a while. Heard Wynum downstairs making it; was rather hoping it was ready. Not your fault, really. Something I can do for you?"
After this stream of words, Edmund realises he is also being somewhat rude.
"Oh, do you want to come in? There's a chair," he says, stepping aside and gesturing to his chair. "Need a spell or something? Best come in and explain. Leave the door open, mind. Don't want anyone getting the wrong idea."
Stepping away from the door, he makes his way to the tea service.
"Tea?" he asks.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+12=21 ; Wednesday February 24th, 2010 5:58:35 AM
Arm slaps his forehead as he finally remembers the special quality of this lake (bardic knowledge=12). He smiles and dives back down to join Marie, but on the way he wonders how SHE knew that no one can drown here, as she hasn't been in the City that long. He makes a mental note to ask her about this later.
Beneficia Wednesday February 24th, 2010 8:45:31 AM
beneficia is awaiting her letter of introduction, sadly delayed by a slow courier. So she entertains herself by reading the latest article on red wine sent by her brother for her to enjoy.
(OOC my internet went down today. I have a few more details to work out with the DM but am looking forward to meeting you all soon)
Ruby Wednesday February 24th, 2010 8:56:45 PM
Ruby nodded her head seeming a little more understanding with him and nodded her head. "Thanks." With his offer she stepped inside and settled into the chair that he mentioned and then looked to the door. She blushed slightly as he commented and then laughed.
"I could use some tea and thank you Edmund." As she sat there she figured the easiest way to go about this was to just ask him. "I got a favor to ask of you and it is something a little more personal. I have no family left or at least that I can get ahold of and I was wondering if you might consider." Her eyes dip and she turns a little more red but there was hope in her voice as well.
"I was hoping that you might walk me down the isle to marry Thar? I don't really have anyone to give me away and it would mean a lot to both of us if you would accept." She watched him carefully as she had asked waiting for somekind of response and hoping it was not outright laughter at her or even a simple no.
DM Post Wednesday February 24th, 2010 11:03:41 PM
Night is drawing on and the moon has truly past its zenith. A cry of alarm and much commotion is heard vaguely north of the Mithril Manor, and soon after an urgent knock is heard at the front door, followed by a yelled and rushed message of introduction, "Constable Offaly here. Rabittsfoot sent me. There's a fire in the Tea House by the Buckler Bridge. We need some help to contain it. There might be people what need rescuing. Come quick, please."
******************
Arm is oblivious to the fire. He is oddly warm and comfortable at the bottom of the Lake of Serenity, and causing the surface to ripple slightly.
Julian hears some of the commotion, and rises to look out of Selithe's window. He can see that a fire has engulfed a building down-river, but he is too sleepy to figure how his skills would be useful.
******************
Wil Kommen helps Beneficia to drag Ben's limp body from the Tea House. The three business partners are blackened with soot, and suffer some burns to various parts of their body. Wil's face is grimacing with pain and anxiety, and his half-orc tusks show clearly where they are usually subtle. "Ben was shutting down the boiler for Beneficia," he tells Constable Gormley. "It seems that it exploded. He is still breathing but barely. Is help on the way?" "Err, yes," the elf hesitates, "We sent word to the Mithril Order. All the Dragon Groups are busy." "Good then. You can rely on the Mithril Order. They'll be here. They only live a few blocks away, right?"
The flames lick at the sky, reaching 15' above the now collapsing roof. "Well Love," Wil puts his arm around Beneficia in a big-brotherly sort of way. "A clean slate. A new beginning. God's know why, but you're been handed a new lease. We'll have to find you somewhere to live as you rebuild."
Edmund Thursday February 25th, 2010 12:33:33 AM
Edmund is in the middle of pouring the tea with his back turned to Ruby when she says something about an aisle, Thar, and getting married. At once, there is a loud series of clatters and clanging, and tea spills from the top of the desk to the floor.
"AH!" the wizard exclaims, quickly using another of his prestidigitation spells to get a towel working at cleaning up the spill. "Dropped the dashed teapot!"
Edmund then busies himself for several minutes, his face and ears very red indeed. Unusually, he doesn't have much to say, and cleans up the spill in relative quiet before returning the teapot to the service.
"Right, tea..." he says before reaching for the kettle. "And you'll need to explain--"
But the wizard is interrupted by sounds of alarm and a pounding on the door. Looking out of his window, his eyes widen as he hears the shouted request for help.
"There's a fire," he says. "Let's go!" and he bustles out of his room in a tremendous hurry, shouting as he rushes down the stairs.
"Fire in the city! Fire! Everyone! Come on! To the Buckler Bridge tea house!"
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday February 25th, 2010 5:38:55 AM
Arm turns to Marie and smiles broadly....how enjoyable this sensation is. He wonders why he didn't visit here much sooner than now.
Zephyr Thursday February 25th, 2010 7:04:45 AM
Zephyr rushes downstairs at the disturbance, pulling on her green jacket as she runs, heading to the front door. She hears the one the member of the Order called Edmund attempting to rouse everyone in the manor up. When she hears the name of the tea house, and can see the flames licking the sky over the trees along the road, she heads that way, as fast as she can...
Wynum Thursday February 25th, 2010 9:18:24 AM
Being rather hard of hearing, Wynum at first hears something about Ed setting fire to the house while making tea. "Typical!" he exclaims "those wizards and their fireballs!", before rushing up and finally making sense of the commotion. Hurrying to his room, he gathers his bucket and blankets before following the others and, thanks to his superior quadruped anatomy, reaches the area not too long after them.
Revi AC21/13T/21FF HP 90/90 Thursday February 25th, 2010 12:02:01 PM
Revi sits, still deep in prayer...
Thar Thursday February 25th, 2010 2:26:56 PM
Thar is busy planning his engagement party and dreaming of how Ruby will look when he hears of a fire. He stops what he was doing and rushes down and sees his partners run off too... He grabs his first aid kit from his room, as there will probably be burn victims, and rushes off with them towards the fire, hoping that they can do some good...
Beneficia Thursday February 25th, 2010 10:15:33 PM
Beneficia, tears in her eyes, coughing as she sighs .... watches her shop burn to the ground. 'Ffloy' works in mysterious ways, our job is to try and understand his grand plan she thinks to herself, but why did he have to take my terrier "bitesy" ? She knew that bitesy always liked Ben and was near his ankles, like he always was, looking for a chance to play. The dog was nowhere to be found and Beneficia seemed resigned to accept his fate in death as one of friendship and guarding the shop. No finer life had been led by a terrier in her mind.
The flames rose higher as the timbers began to crackle. There was also a wonderful scent of tea in the air as the shop twinkled in the night.
Beneficia motioned to a neighbor and asked that he fetch her a pen and parchment. Upon returning and giving her heartfelt thanks to him, Beneficia began to write in clear block letters and note to her brother informing him of the sad state of affairs and that he had been right all along. That she now understood that she was to find some additional purpose in life. She sniffed the odor of ash and she brushed her face with her collar and went back to writing. "would you please invest the agreed upon amount in the area that we discussed". Finished now she walked nearer to the flames and bending down picked up the remnants of a candle, pouring the liquid so as to seal the letter she sealed it with a ring from her right hand and called a young lad over to deliver it for her to the appropriate address.
It was then she noticed the sounds of help coming and thought to herself, "maybe they can salvage something of value after all"
DM Post Thursday February 25th, 2010 10:28:34 PM
DM post will be late today.
Ruby Friday February 26th, 2010 12:03:42 AM
Ruby rushed out after Edmund, thankful for the distraction as she had not expected him to drop his teapot with her request. God but she was going to have to try and explain that later to him so that he would agree. No one but Thar really knew her past and she kept it that way on purpose. Still she would like him to take the duty that her father or brother could have done but they were not longer around.
Dashing to her room she grabbed up her own healers kit and slung it over her shoulder than raced after the rest. She was hoping to keep up with them and hopefully be of help as well. If nothing else she would pitch in her help with the water buckets.
DM Post Monday March 1st, 2010 5:22:17 AM
The Mithril Order rush to the fire, and they arrive within a minute of each other. Constable Rabbitsfoot greets them in his usual cheery Halfling manner.
"Ah, it's always good to see you chaps. Now, we're pretty sure that everyone is out of the building, though clearly it is to be condemned. Nothing left but clean up for this one, once the fire dies down." "But," the elf Constable Gormley adds dryly, "the excessive heat from this fire is creating a low pressure, generating a breeze from the nearby cooler air above the river, which is," gesturing slightly left and up, "fanning the flames, sending the heat and the burning embers, into this building here. That is our current priority, and it is only now that we have the man power to do so-" "-So," chirps in Rabbitsfoot before Gormley can finish his sentence, "Edmund, that's your target, protect this building. We'll keep the civilians back and evacuate the nearest buildings. Meet you back here in two minutes?"
The building Rabbitsfoot and Gormley refer to is a two storey building typical in this quarter. The bottom floor is a carpenter's workshop, storage and shopfront for fine furniture (this is where much of the Manor's furniture was bought). The upperfloor is residential and might house as many four families, though this one is home to two. The roof space is, like the Mithril Manor, an open garden space. The northern-most end has small trees and shrubs ablaze already, and the personal shrine is blackened with soot as the flames lick the at its north facing pillars.
The two families who live here are huddled together in the nearby Shield Street where they can safely see whether or not they will have a home in the morning. There are four parents, 3 grandparents, an uncle and 9 children.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday March 1st, 2010 9:12:32 AM
Still oblivious to the goings on back in town, Arm continues to enjoy the shared experience with Marie.
Edmund Monday March 1st, 2010 1:09:59 PM
Edmund arrives and listens to Rabbitsfoot and Gormley's briefing. When they tell him specifically to protect the building, his eyes widen in a look of what might be called shock. He quickly manages to recover himself, though, and does his best to try to focus on the matter.
"O-of course!" he stutters as Rabbitsfoot and Gormley finish. Then, putting one hand to his temple, he tries to work out what currently memorised spells might prove useful--not entirely easy, as most of them were for booby-trapping and protecting the manor.
"Well, there is that," he mutters to himself, and quickly begins the incantation for Summon Monster V, intent on calling up a Medium Water Elemental to assist him, intending to follow that with a Sleet Storm in the most structually essential area.
DM Post Monday March 1st, 2010 3:11:41 PM
Ooc: when Rabbitsfoot asked Edmund to protect the building he was addressing Edmund as the (self proclaimed) leader of the party. I realise that it didn't come across that way, I don't expect the others to stand idle as Edmund does all the work.
Thar d3=1 ; Monday March 1st, 2010 3:32:33 PM
Thar enthusiastically agrees with Edmund, as there are innocent people whose homes, possessions and livelihoods are at risk. He looks at the ongoing fire and huddled family, and immediately goes over to them, making sure that no one was burned or injured... If they're hurt, he'll heal them but if they're OK, he'll consider what spells to cast...
He also asks Rabbitsfoot or Gormley, "Are we for certain that everyone is evacuated or could there be people still in there?"
Option 1 = If people are possibly there or if it hasn't been searched, he'll lead a quick party in to see if they spot or hear anyone...
Option 2 = If it's been searched already, he'll decide that since it seems that keeping embers and other sparks from setting this house on fire is their goal, his Monster Summoning 4 Spell would be best used to help call some water elementals to keep the trees, shrubbery and roof wet for now... He'll summon them (1d3 = 1 elemental) to go wherever Edmund's elemental is NOT, that way they're not wasting resources...
Wynum Monday March 1st, 2010 4:32:01 PM
While Thar ascertains there is no one left inside, Wynum simply fetches water with his meager bucket, while looking around for more containers.
Zephyr Monday March 1st, 2010 6:20:03 PM
Zephyr stands nearby, looking from one Order member to the other. Since Wynum seems to be starting up the bucket brigade while the others stand about for the moment, she lends a hand, wondering where the rest of the townsfolk are..
Ruby Monday March 1st, 2010 9:20:47 PM
Ruby waits long enough to see if there is anyone inside that still needs to be gotten out as that would be her first priority as well. If there was not then she would find a spare bucket and start to help with the water detail. If nothing else she is wetting down the most likely areas that could easily catch fire and try to prevent the spread while others deal with the fire itself.
If there are people to be saved than she will put herself in harms way by entering building as needed. Her thoughts for herself are secondary and she knows that Thar will understand that, though he may not exactly like it. He takes the risks and so does she...so it has to be mutual between them.
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