'Magic you say! Well that's anything but boring! And a rite of passage. A proper adventure you're having you are! Well, that calls for a toast.' Raising his glass, he inclines it towards the gentlemen at the bar, turning to clink mugs with KD and Lily 'To bold beginnings and safe endings. May your adventure feed your soul and fill your pockets!'
Onus uses the cover of the minor commotion of the toast to quickly assess the tavern's newest occupant. 'And you there good sir, can I trade you a drink for your tale as well?'
Melvin couldn't help but harumph at Lilly's Tale: "Ai'nt no gift, Firehair. Prove you're worth yer gift? Better prove ye can control it, far's I'm concerned." He takes a large sip, before facing the dapper and inquisitive half-elf. "Sorry there, Tweed, but my tale's not worth na drink. Came 'ere like most o' the rest, big plans an' all. Turns out tha' plans alone often don't suffice... I'm prospectin', sure, but ain't found nothin' yet. The ale an' company's still a'ight though, so 't least there'sat. Cheers!"
Onu, you do notice that the book doesn't bear any title, but Melvin quickly shifts, covering it up again. Judging from the black fingernails, the worn trousers, the boots with scuffed leather and the dirty cuffs on Melvin's coat, he seems somewhat down on his luck.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Lilly wrinkled her nose and pouted (just for a moment!): that old grump by the door was raining on her parade! But the old grumps were her specialty. She took another sip from her mug (hm, was the cider always that good? or did she... no, not now.) Three golden rules: "Let the Dragon Vent", "Do not argue", "Stay Calm and Smile" - never let her down. She smiled. "Sure, that's the point too!" Lilly nodded enthusiastically, fighting (internally) the urge to use one of her spells right here (no, not that one - she was very proud of her cleaning spell, but suspected the man might not appreciate it too much at the moment). Instead she asked, sort of changing the subject. "What are you searching for around here. Tweed?" She was not sure who he called like this - himself or that nice half-elf.
Toblen stood behind the counter, cleaning a mug with a cloth. He wore a charming grin as he watched the new wave of patrons make themselves at home in his establishment. It was difficult for him to stifle low chuckles and a few brow raises as entrances and introductions were made.
At the approach of the seasoned gentleman, Toblen would nod his way. “Ahh yes, Daran, Daran.” The man would chuckle along with the white bearded man. “He doesn’t venture far from the orchard these days. Heck, I’m lucky if I can get my hands on a decent cider any more.” He’d tilt back with a sheepish grin, gesturing to the spunky halfling hoping for something more memorable. “Been trying to get my hands on some Two Blind Apple Cider from Womford Orchard, but to no avail.” He sighs a little longingly before continuing. “Traders aren’t willing to make the trip. Rumours of a dragon flying high through the clouds. Hard to guage the creature’s size of course, but some been saying it’s as big as an elephant with gleaming scales.” After a pause, he’d shrug. “Any way, you’ll find your old grumplestiltskin, Daran, at his home.” With a nod, Toblen would place a hearty mug on the counter for the man with a key for a room.
At Onu’s great encouragement, Toblen would chuckle once more. The proprietor was more than comfortable being an ‘enabler’. Trading a look with his new barmaid, the redhead grins a little awkwardly before hopping off the counter to begin gathering mugs for drinks, filling them as required. She’d move with smooth quiet steps but fumbles frequently with the serving tray, and yet manages to still recover a falling glass without spilling a drop. Big brown eyes looked about as surprised as you were at the accomplishment. “Ta da?” She’d blurt prior to giving an apologetic smile before dipping away to continue serving the rest of the patrons.
At this time, a hooded figure that was sitting in a darkened corner of the room would close a book and raise from their seat. They’d put it away as they’d walk over to the counter and quietly place their coin down for Toblen. Exchanging a nod, they’d go to take their leave from the stablishment.
The barmaid couldn’t help but double back around behind Lilly after sharing her vibrant smile and aspirations to travel. In her distraction, her and the hooded figure collided, causing them to bump into the halfling who was sitting tall in her chair. Gasps and mutters of apologies were has as hands steadied each other. Awkward stepping was exchanged to get around each other until they eventually break away.
Please note: Feel free to roll anything at any time (and continue to do so for those who already have :) ) As long as it’s within reason and intentions clearly stated, I will always do my best to accommodate it, even if it doesn’t really result in anything. I won’t call for everything all the time, there are some secrets ;) but will do call outs for engagement as necessary of course :)
"Ah, service and a show my dear! Delightful!' calls Onu as the barmaid manages her circus-like feat of agility. Turning to Melvin, the half-elf chats up the scruffy-looking man while trying to catch a glimpse of hooded figure now doing an impromptu and awkward dance with the barmaid.
"Tweed?' a hearty chuckle 'Well I've certainly been called worse in my day, but this is more a woolen-linen blend than a proper tweed, I find the fabric wears better and drapes finer. But a good tweed can make a fine suit indeed.' Onus continues to ramble on about different fabrics can work with very specific cuts of jackets, waistcoats and trousers, leaning in and playing the part of a fop.
The old man looks over all of the lively strangers eager to swap stories and says "no, no, you young folk have your fun." "I have no stories worth telling and getting these boots off of these swollen feet is a priority."
The old man leaves a few coin for Toblen and trudges upstairs to deposit his pack and other heavy equipment in his room before returning to the bar five or ten minutes later with just his valuables and the quarterstaves now on his back. "How about one more drink before I go find that damned elf, eh? Haha"
The barmaid’s cheeks flush when Onu calls her way. She’d play along, bowing with a curtsey after she’d recover from running into the other patron.
Onu, you’re unable to get much of a look from your passive glance over the hooded figure. You are however, able to make out an approximate height of the individual compared to the barmaid and the doorframe of the establishment when they make their way out the door.
Lilly, you were understanding of the situation and more concerned for your drink that you hadn’t noticed anything amiss.
Demetrios on the other hand, may not have planned to notice something in passive, but they couldn’t help but take a double take in Lilly’s direction after all the commotion. The armour clad warrior could see a little stack of something white poking out of the halfling’s pocket that wasn’t there before.
At the return of the older gentleman, Toblen would nod affirmatively. “If you insist.” He’d chuckle. Before he could pick up a mug, the barmaid would sling a full mug down the counter his way. “Order up!” She’d chime.
Melvin let the fine-dressed man prattle on, more interested in the hooded figure and their book.
Arcana to see if it's a book that they would recognise: 8
COnvinced that the inquisitive sorcerer was otherwise occupied after her mishap with the barmaid, Melvin returns to his drink, before turning to the other elder in the room. "Mind me askin' what yer needin' the elf for?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Demetrios hadn't meant to eavesdrop in on the conversation the older gentleman had with the barkeep but it ended up being so, his brows raising interest at the mention of a dragon flying about. Before he could question about it however, his attention is grabbed in the direction of the collision between the barmaid, a hooded figure, and the halfling woman. All seemed well though, as the red-head laughs it off as apologies are exchanged.
He hadn't meant to stare at Lilly for long, but he couldn't help it when he felt something was off. Cognac' hues quickly hone in on her pocket, noticing something that definitely hadn't been there before.
The paladin approaches the halfling, giving a welcoming smile over the group at the table. He leans over a bit to speak to Lilly. "I couldn't help but notice something sticking out of your pocket,"He notifies gently, not wanting to draw attention away from whatever conversations had been having had at the table. "I don't think it was there before or... maybe the commotion was an attempt at pick pocketing you but failed?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Blissfully unaware, unsuspecting and generally "un" Lilly immediately reached out to her pocket without even thinking. She did not remember putting anything important there, but you never know. "That's... um... what...?"She was mumbling it while unfolding "the thing". Usually she was quicker at catching the drift, but the sudden excitement of "the real adventuring meeting" got her distracted.
When Melvin shows interest in the white-bearded man he replies "well hello friend." "Oh he's just an old friend, that's all. Suggested this here town as a possible quiet retirement spot so I thought I'd have a look. You from around here?" The old man gestures to the barkeep to get the potentially down on his luck gentlemen an ale on him.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Onu keeps up a steady stream of prattle about clothing and tailoring but is now zeroed in on Lilly, Demetrios and the Hooded Figure. Something was off there, and when something went awry, there was normal opportunity.
The hooded figure had not stuck around. They made their way to the door and exited before Demetrios pointed the cards out to Lilly. Though, Onu's efforts to expand his glimpse to an active scan, he was able to perceive a few extra details. The figure stood a little over 5'2", shorter than the barmaid. They indeed went for Lilly's pocket and the barmaid had actually reached for their wrist in defense of the patron. In a pause, it was like a moment of realization was shared between the pair before the hooded individual withdrew their hand, hiding it in their sleeve. Nothing was taken, only deposited. Catching sight of the connecting hands just long enough though, the half-elf notices heavy scarring that blanketed the hidden figures hands.
Lilly as you thumb the material in your hands, you realize they're stacked, not folded. Feeling similar to playing cards, you fan them out. There are four of them. The top three clearly had 'Quest' in the title and even include a reward value at the bottom! They were also signed by the Townmaster himself, Harbin Wester. Taking a look at the fourth one though, it appeared blank. Turning it over and back, it would materialize with unique handwriting and a signature of its own.
'Lilly's Cards'
If you inspect them closely, they're completely legitimate. The first three are copies of what could be found on the job board. The last one is unique.
Dwarven Excavation Quest “Dwarf prospectors found ancient dwarven ruins in the mountains southwest of here, and have been working an archaeological dig seeking treasure and relics. They need to be warned that a white dragon has moved into the area. Take the warning to them, then return to Townmaster Harbin Wester to collect a reward of 50 gp.”
Gnomengarde Quest “A clan of reclusive rock gnomes resides in a small network of caves in the mountains to the southeast. The gnomes of Gnomengarde are known for their magical inventions, and they might have something with which to defeat the dragon. Get whatever you can from them. If you bring back something useful and don’t want to keep it for yourselves, Townmaster Harbin Wester will pay you 50 gp for it.”
Umbrage Hill Quest “The local midwife — an acolyte of Chauntea named Adabra Gwynn — lives by herself in a stone windmill on the side of a hill a few miles south of Phandalin. With dragon sightings becoming more common, it’s not safe for her to be alone. Urge Adabra to return to Phandalin. Once she’s safe, visit Townmaster Harbin Wester to claim a reward of 25 gp.”
Blank
Ruined Temple As the Triboar Trail runs east, it passes through the ruins of Conyberry, a town sacked by barbarians years ago. There’s a ruined temple south of Conyberry where it’s said the locals hid their gold. The dragon was spotted there most recently.
(Signature)
At the older gentleman's gesture the barmaid slings another ale down the bar to Melvin. As she does so, Toblen leans on the counter. "If you're just planning on coming back here to catch up anyway, I can send someone to fetch the elf." His brow would pop with his offer. "Rest them old bones. Enjoy some drinks and the new company trying to welcome you to town." He'd wink, giving the man a gentle nudge in the arm with encouragement.
Of course Lilly inspected the cards and not alone. After a few moments of staring at the unexpected gift (can you call a handout "gift"?) she put all the cards on the table for those around to see. Then she took the fourth one back - "I'll keep that one!" She showed the mystery card as well, but was fascinated by the way the words appeared (magic, obviously).
"Uh! Quests and adventures. Um... Not sure... I do not think it is for me alone. Or may be they were aiming at your pocket, Sir Knight?"She looked at Demetrios.
Melvin, your interest in the hooded figure and their book yielded nothing entirely specific. Your active look over the individual was able to give you a sure enough conclusion it was a well loved spellbook. Of what specialty though, that you just couldn't quite figure out from your glimpse.
KD, in your continued silence and shrouded mystique, you eventually feel a gentle nudge. "Psst." It's the barmaid. She was bending at the knees, leaning back with an unsteady tray of drinks, almost reminding you of a fawn still getting used to balancing with their limbs. "Psssssst." Nudging you with her elbow once more, she whispers close to your ear so only you could hear, "Care to share more your ginger with this ginger?". The redhead stands back upright just in time before the mugs threatened to spill, gesturing them a little in your direction with a grin. Should you spice up the drinks with your same display of magic for Lilly, the barmaid would grab the fullest glass and serve it to you with a wink before having to tiptoe off to serve the next table. It was on the house for your service.
Demetrios quirks a brow when the halfling pulls out the cards, noting her hesitance in knowing what they were. He looks over her shoulder when she reads over the cards first, reading them as well before leaning back. The paladin does chuckle softly when she takes the fourth card.
"None of those seem like quests to do alone," He nods in agreement with her words. "And, ah, please call me Demetrios. I apologize for not introducing myself to you all sooner."He gives a short bow to the table. "As silly as it may sound, I believe that these were slipped into your pocket with the intention of bringing us together on these adventures? Missions are always the best when in good company after all."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
"Demetrios," repeated the girl getting used to the name. "I am Lilly" (The knight might not hear it the first time, you know.) She looked at the cards again and smiled a bit mischievously - it all still felt like a game, sure, she was traveling and those around did look experienced "adventurers" for luck of better word, but... Just like that? Ok, she can play! "If you truly believe this is the beginning of an adventure, who should we invite?"She looked up quickly, meeting knight's eyes and with momentarily seriousness. "You are in, right?"
As talk of adventure and quests grows louder from the gathering of strangers at the table nearby, the old man does turn his head a little in their direction, an eyebrow slightly raised and an ear in their direction.
When Toblen mentions sending someone to fetch his friend, the old man turns back only briefly. "Huh, oh, well, if I don't say, that's some service right there!" Thinking of his sore feet and uncertainty at exactly where Daran might be he continues "well yes, I'll take you up on that, certainly!" The old man happily places a gold coin down on the table for Toblen with a smile but finds his attention once again drawn to the young folk talking of questing and adventuring.
"A pleasure to meet you, Miss Lilly,"Demetrios says, outstretching a hand for her had she wanted to indulge him in a handshake. If so, he gives her a firm handshake and a curt bow of the head. If not, then he drops his hand back down to his side and simply bows his head respectfully towards her.
At her question, his brows raise, and he can't help a quizzical smile from forming on his lips. "Of course." He confirms with a light chuckle. "And we should invite whoever is willing. I see many capable people around here."As he says this his eyes go around the table, and even to the bar where the older gentleman had been. "It's their decision though."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
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'Magic you say! Well that's anything but boring! And a rite of passage. A proper adventure you're having you are! Well, that calls for a toast.' Raising his glass, he inclines it towards the gentlemen at the bar, turning to clink mugs with KD and Lily 'To bold beginnings and safe endings. May your adventure feed your soul and fill your pockets!'
Onus uses the cover of the minor commotion of the toast to quickly assess the tavern's newest occupant. 'And you there good sir, can I trade you a drink for your tale as well?'
Perception 19
Melvin couldn't help but harumph at Lilly's Tale: "Ai'nt no gift, Firehair. Prove you're worth yer gift? Better prove ye can control it, far's I'm concerned." He takes a large sip, before facing the dapper and inquisitive half-elf. "Sorry there, Tweed, but my tale's not worth na drink. Came 'ere like most o' the rest, big plans an' all. Turns out tha' plans alone often don't suffice... I'm prospectin', sure, but ain't found nothin' yet. The ale an' company's still a'ight though, so 't least there'sat. Cheers!"
Onu, you do notice that the book doesn't bear any title, but Melvin quickly shifts, covering it up again. Judging from the black fingernails, the worn trousers, the boots with scuffed leather and the dirty cuffs on Melvin's coat, he seems somewhat down on his luck.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Lilly wrinkled her nose and pouted (just for a moment!): that old grump by the door was raining on her parade! But the old grumps were her specialty. She took another sip from her mug (hm, was the cider always that good? or did she... no, not now.) Three golden rules: "Let the Dragon Vent", "Do not argue", "Stay Calm and Smile" - never let her down. She smiled. "Sure, that's the point too!" Lilly nodded enthusiastically, fighting (internally) the urge to use one of her spells right here (no, not that one - she was very proud of her cleaning spell, but suspected the man might not appreciate it too much at the moment). Instead she asked, sort of changing the subject. "What are you searching for around here. Tweed?" She was not sure who he called like this - himself or that nice half-elf.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Toblen stood behind the counter, cleaning a mug with a cloth. He wore a charming grin as he watched the new wave of patrons make themselves at home in his establishment. It was difficult for him to stifle low chuckles and a few brow raises as entrances and introductions were made.
At the approach of the seasoned gentleman, Toblen would nod his way. “Ahh yes, Daran, Daran.” The man would chuckle along with the white bearded man. “He doesn’t venture far from the orchard these days. Heck, I’m lucky if I can get my hands on a decent cider any more.” He’d tilt back with a sheepish grin, gesturing to the spunky halfling hoping for something more memorable. “Been trying to get my hands on some Two Blind Apple Cider from Womford Orchard, but to no avail.” He sighs a little longingly before continuing. “Traders aren’t willing to make the trip. Rumours of a dragon flying high through the clouds. Hard to guage the creature’s size of course, but some been saying it’s as big as an elephant with gleaming scales.” After a pause, he’d shrug. “Any way, you’ll find your old grumplestiltskin, Daran, at his home.” With a nod, Toblen would place a hearty mug on the counter for the man with a key for a room.
At Onu’s great encouragement, Toblen would chuckle once more. The proprietor was more than comfortable being an ‘enabler’. Trading a look with his new barmaid, the redhead grins a little awkwardly before hopping off the counter to begin gathering mugs for drinks, filling them as required. She’d move with smooth quiet steps but fumbles frequently with the serving tray, and yet manages to still recover a falling glass without spilling a drop. Big brown eyes looked about as surprised as you were at the accomplishment. “Ta da?” She’d blurt prior to giving an apologetic smile before dipping away to continue serving the rest of the patrons.
At this time, a hooded figure that was sitting in a darkened corner of the room would close a book and raise from their seat. They’d put it away as they’d walk over to the counter and quietly place their coin down for Toblen. Exchanging a nod, they’d go to take their leave from the stablishment.
The barmaid couldn’t help but double back around behind Lilly after sharing her vibrant smile and aspirations to travel. In her distraction, her and the hooded figure collided, causing them to bump into the halfling who was sitting tall in her chair. Gasps and mutters of apologies were has as hands steadied each other. Awkward stepping was exchanged to get around each other until they eventually break away.
Please note: Feel free to roll anything at any time (and continue to do so for those who already have :) ) As long as it’s within reason and intentions clearly stated, I will always do my best to accommodate it, even if it doesn’t really result in anything. I won’t call for everything all the time, there are some secrets ;) but will do call outs for engagement as necessary of course :)
Perception Check!
Roll Call: Lilly
just an unstable unicorn.
Lilly Perception: 8
Ouch! She was drinking here! Happens, of course, and Lilly understood better than many the plea of inn workers, so, she just laughed.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
"Ah, service and a show my dear! Delightful!' calls Onu as the barmaid manages her circus-like feat of agility. Turning to Melvin, the half-elf chats up the scruffy-looking man while trying to catch a glimpse of hooded figure now doing an impromptu and awkward dance with the barmaid.
"Tweed?' a hearty chuckle 'Well I've certainly been called worse in my day, but this is more a woolen-linen blend than a proper tweed, I find the fabric wears better and drapes finer. But a good tweed can make a fine suit indeed.' Onus continues to ramble on about different fabrics can work with very specific cuts of jackets, waistcoats and trousers, leaning in and playing the part of a fop.
The old man looks over all of the lively strangers eager to swap stories and says "no, no, you young folk have your fun." "I have no stories worth telling and getting these boots off of these swollen feet is a priority."
The old man leaves a few coin for Toblen and trudges upstairs to deposit his pack and other heavy equipment in his room before returning to the bar five or ten minutes later with just his valuables and the quarterstaves now on his back. "How about one more drink before I go find that damned elf, eh? Haha"
The barmaid’s cheeks flush when Onu calls her way. She’d play along, bowing with a curtsey after she’d recover from running into the other patron.
Onu, you’re unable to get much of a look from your passive glance over the hooded figure. You are however, able to make out an approximate height of the individual compared to the barmaid and the doorframe of the establishment when they make their way out the door.
Lilly, you were understanding of the situation and more concerned for your drink that you hadn’t noticed anything amiss.
Demetrios on the other hand, may not have planned to notice something in passive, but they couldn’t help but take a double take in Lilly’s direction after all the commotion. The armour clad warrior could see a little stack of something white poking out of the halfling’s pocket that wasn’t there before.
At the return of the older gentleman, Toblen would nod affirmatively. “If you insist.” He’d chuckle. Before he could pick up a mug, the barmaid would sling a full mug down the counter his way. “Order up!” She’d chime.
just an unstable unicorn.
Melvin let the fine-dressed man prattle on, more interested in the hooded figure and their book.
Arcana to see if it's a book that they would recognise: 8
COnvinced that the inquisitive sorcerer was otherwise occupied after her mishap with the barmaid, Melvin returns to his drink, before turning to the other elder in the room. "Mind me askin' what yer needin' the elf for?"
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Demetrios hadn't meant to eavesdrop in on the conversation the older gentleman had with the barkeep but it ended up being so, his brows raising interest at the mention of a dragon flying about. Before he could question about it however, his attention is grabbed in the direction of the collision between the barmaid, a hooded figure, and the halfling woman. All seemed well though, as the red-head laughs it off as apologies are exchanged.
He hadn't meant to stare at Lilly for long, but he couldn't help it when he felt something was off. Cognac' hues quickly hone in on her pocket, noticing something that definitely hadn't been there before.
The paladin approaches the halfling, giving a welcoming smile over the group at the table. He leans over a bit to speak to Lilly. "I couldn't help but notice something sticking out of your pocket," He notifies gently, not wanting to draw attention away from whatever conversations had been having had at the table. "I don't think it was there before or... maybe the commotion was an attempt at pick pocketing you but failed?"
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Blissfully unaware, unsuspecting and generally "un" Lilly immediately reached out to her pocket without even thinking. She did not remember putting anything important there, but you never know. "That's... um... what...?" She was mumbling it while unfolding "the thing". Usually she was quicker at catching the drift, but the sudden excitement of "the real adventuring meeting" got her distracted.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
When Melvin shows interest in the white-bearded man he replies "well hello friend." "Oh he's just an old friend, that's all. Suggested this here town as a possible quiet retirement spot so I thought I'd have a look. You from around here?" The old man gestures to the barkeep to get the potentially down on his luck gentlemen an ale on him.
Onu keeps up a steady stream of prattle about clothing and tailoring but is now zeroed in on Lilly, Demetrios and the Hooded Figure. Something was off there, and when something went awry, there was normal opportunity.
Perception 3
The hooded figure had not stuck around. They made their way to the door and exited before Demetrios pointed the cards out to Lilly. Though, Onu's efforts to expand his glimpse to an active scan, he was able to perceive a few extra details. The figure stood a little over 5'2", shorter than the barmaid. They indeed went for Lilly's pocket and the barmaid had actually reached for their wrist in defense of the patron. In a pause, it was like a moment of realization was shared between the pair before the hooded individual withdrew their hand, hiding it in their sleeve. Nothing was taken, only deposited. Catching sight of the connecting hands just long enough though, the half-elf notices heavy scarring that blanketed the hidden figures hands.
Lilly as you thumb the material in your hands, you realize they're stacked, not folded. Feeling similar to playing cards, you fan them out. There are four of them. The top three clearly had 'Quest' in the title and even include a reward value at the bottom! They were also signed by the Townmaster himself, Harbin Wester. Taking a look at the fourth one though, it appeared blank. Turning it over and back, it would materialize with unique handwriting and a signature of its own.
'Lilly's Cards'
If you inspect them closely, they're completely legitimate. The first three are copies of what could be found on the job board. The last one is unique.
Dwarven Excavation Quest
“Dwarf prospectors found ancient dwarven ruins in the mountains southwest of here, and have been working an archaeological dig seeking treasure and relics. They need to be warned that a white dragon has moved into the area. Take the warning to them, then return to Townmaster Harbin Wester to collect a reward of 50 gp.”
Gnomengarde Quest
“A clan of reclusive rock gnomes resides in a small network of caves in the mountains to the southeast. The gnomes of Gnomengarde are known for their magical inventions, and they might have something with which to defeat the dragon. Get whatever you can from them. If you bring back something useful and don’t want to keep it for yourselves, Townmaster Harbin Wester will pay you 50 gp for it.”
Umbrage Hill Quest
“The local midwife — an acolyte of Chauntea named Adabra Gwynn — lives by herself in a stone windmill on the side of a hill a few miles south of Phandalin. With dragon sightings becoming more common, it’s not safe for her to be alone. Urge Adabra to return to Phandalin. Once she’s safe, visit Townmaster Harbin Wester to claim a reward of 25 gp.”
Blank
Ruined Temple
As the Triboar Trail runs east, it passes through the ruins of Conyberry, a town sacked by barbarians years ago. There’s a ruined temple south of Conyberry where it’s said the locals hid their gold. The dragon was spotted there most recently.
(Signature)
At the older gentleman's gesture the barmaid slings another ale down the bar to Melvin. As she does so, Toblen leans on the counter. "If you're just planning on coming back here to catch up anyway, I can send someone to fetch the elf." His brow would pop with his offer. "Rest them old bones. Enjoy some drinks and the new company trying to welcome you to town." He'd wink, giving the man a gentle nudge in the arm with encouragement.
just an unstable unicorn.
Of course Lilly inspected the cards and not alone. After a few moments of staring at the unexpected gift (can you call a handout "gift"?) she put all the cards on the table for those around to see. Then she took the fourth one back - "I'll keep that one!" She showed the mystery card as well, but was fascinated by the way the words appeared (magic, obviously).
"Uh! Quests and adventures. Um... Not sure... I do not think it is for me alone. Or may be they were aiming at your pocket, Sir Knight?" She looked at Demetrios.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Melvin, your interest in the hooded figure and their book yielded nothing entirely specific. Your active look over the individual was able to give you a sure enough conclusion it was a well loved spellbook. Of what specialty though, that you just couldn't quite figure out from your glimpse.
KD, in your continued silence and shrouded mystique, you eventually feel a gentle nudge. "Psst." It's the barmaid. She was bending at the knees, leaning back with an unsteady tray of drinks, almost reminding you of a fawn still getting used to balancing with their limbs. "Psssssst." Nudging you with her elbow once more, she whispers close to your ear so only you could hear, "Care to share more your ginger with this ginger?". The redhead stands back upright just in time before the mugs threatened to spill, gesturing them a little in your direction with a grin. Should you spice up the drinks with your same display of magic for Lilly, the barmaid would grab the fullest glass and serve it to you with a wink before having to tiptoe off to serve the next table. It was on the house for your service.
just an unstable unicorn.
Demetrios quirks a brow when the halfling pulls out the cards, noting her hesitance in knowing what they were. He looks over her shoulder when she reads over the cards first, reading them as well before leaning back. The paladin does chuckle softly when she takes the fourth card.
"None of those seem like quests to do alone," He nods in agreement with her words. "And, ah, please call me Demetrios. I apologize for not introducing myself to you all sooner." He gives a short bow to the table. "As silly as it may sound, I believe that these were slipped into your pocket with the intention of bringing us together on these adventures? Missions are always the best when in good company after all."
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
"Demetrios," repeated the girl getting used to the name. "I am Lilly" (The knight might not hear it the first time, you know.) She looked at the cards again and smiled a bit mischievously - it all still felt like a game, sure, she was traveling and those around did look experienced "adventurers" for luck of better word, but... Just like that? Ok, she can play! "If you truly believe this is the beginning of an adventure, who should we invite?" She looked up quickly, meeting knight's eyes and with momentarily seriousness. "You are in, right?"
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
As talk of adventure and quests grows louder from the gathering of strangers at the table nearby, the old man does turn his head a little in their direction, an eyebrow slightly raised and an ear in their direction.
When Toblen mentions sending someone to fetch his friend, the old man turns back only briefly. "Huh, oh, well, if I don't say, that's some service right there!" Thinking of his sore feet and uncertainty at exactly where Daran might be he continues "well yes, I'll take you up on that, certainly!" The old man happily places a gold coin down on the table for Toblen with a smile but finds his attention once again drawn to the young folk talking of questing and adventuring.
"A pleasure to meet you, Miss Lilly," Demetrios says, outstretching a hand for her had she wanted to indulge him in a handshake. If so, he gives her a firm handshake and a curt bow of the head. If not, then he drops his hand back down to his side and simply bows his head respectfully towards her.
At her question, his brows raise, and he can't help a quizzical smile from forming on his lips. "Of course." He confirms with a light chuckle. "And we should invite whoever is willing. I see many capable people around here." As he says this his eyes go around the table, and even to the bar where the older gentleman had been. "It's their decision though."
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\