Valen passes the time through the night bouncing between his book, listening to Galius' music, and playing with the precocious little sprite hovering over his shoulder.
In the morning, he rises early, and stands on the lawn of the inn watching the sun rise. Without his battlefiled accoutrements, he could be mistaken for a simple traveling monk. Hanging from a chain in his hands rests a censor shaped like a sunburst and pouring thin wisps of smoking incense. The ritual was often modified on battlefields or travels, but it was required of all Blessed to be performed when hosted away from The Bastion's walls.
"Through darkest night, the dawn shall come. We are wardens and stewards. Shield of the fallen, bulwark for the weak, let darkness break itself upon our Walls and be cast down by our Hands."
(On the road)
Valen approaches Ishaz as he lounges atop the wagon, "Are the Elfslums really the only threat? I understand your apprehension at letting us near your business dealings, but would you at least let us stand guard outside whatever guild hall or tavern you go to? I would see you to safety after the troubles we had already."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Characters:
Grishkar Darkmoor, Necromancer of Nerull the Despiser Kelvin Rabbitfoot, Diviner, con artist, always hunting for a good sale Bründir Halfshield, Valor Bard, three-time Sheercleft Drinking Competition Champion, Hometown hero
Arc walks gratefully with Alexia and Azrael. He is his normal upbeat self, bantering about life and various creatures that might be about, until they reach the desolated area. Even as a forged he became noticeably subdued. His curiosity peaked as he noticed, even though she was trying to hide it, that Alexia was producing tears. Forged don't cry and the emotions and feelings produced in those who cry are difficult to understand. Yet he knows exactly what is producing those feelings as he is frustrated at the desolation much like Alexia.
He tries to relate to both Alexia and Azrael. "I have learned that tears are not something I can relate closely to. I understand what is causing them because I have frustration at this barren land like you, but I do not have the ability to produce tears. I have also learned that I can offend if I talk about emotions in a clinical way so please forgive me if I am being insensitive but I can sympathize to some degree. This is indeed a sad place." Then looking at Azrael's expression he says "And a frustrating place."
He watches Azrael's and Valen's questions to Ishaz and wants to help in some way. To Ishaz he says "Ishaz, I want you to understand our motivations. Even if we trust your intentions we have incentive to make sure you do not fail in your quest to bring back our payments. You have the final word but we are naturally incentivized to help you. Please consider this in your decision." Arc finishes speaking and steps back so as not to be threatening.
Lucina freezes at the feeling of loss that suddenly washes over her, she stares forward in utter silence. Somewhat hugging herself with a deep frown on her face, slowly shaking her head. Any tears that forms she blinks away rather quickly, looking towards everyone else.
Ishaz smiles at Azrael, "I'm surprised to find myself agreeing with one thing you said there... I am indeed the boss."
He then turns his oily gaze to Valen, "The Elfslums are the largest threat in Barmouth, yes. Even then, I don't believe that elfs would attack me outright. I can't say the same for those two." He nods at Az and Galius and chuckles. "The Justice Ward, the Temple of the Sun and Barmouth Keep all maintain a prohibition on weapon carry and unsanctioned magic on the streets, enforced by constables from the Legion. While this law doesn't extend to other areas of town, the people tend to follow it. Sunbishop Garthmoor has a penchant for beaming those who cause trouble in his town." He listens intently as Arcast makes his case.
"You both make valid points, and I'm flattered that you care so much about my safety," he says with a wry smile, "Two of you may accompany me as bodyguards to Guildmaster Kwenthro's offices, who you choose matters not. The rest of you will wait at the Dragon and Bear in the Upper Dock Districts." He turns to Garun, Yanny and Lenk. "You three can do as you please, I'll see that your payment makes it to Captain Bullwish." The men seem pleased with this arrangement, and quickly fall into talking amongst themselves.
Garun soon turns to the group, "You lot'll be getting a good word put in with the captain. If you need work, there's a galley in the Lower Docks called The Greenfish. Tell them Garun sent you." He takes this opportunity to make his way around the group and shake the hands of each of you in thanks, with Yanny and Lenk soon following suit.
Corrigan calls back from the front wagon, "Losing daylight here people, let's get this last stint done with so I can spend m'wages on a fiery red-haired wench!" He laughs and taps the front-most mule with his reed, resuming the journey.
[OoC]: This will be my last big post until Monday. On Monday we'll reach the Elfslums north of the town. You should decide what you want to do upon reaching Barmouth, and who will be sent with Ishaz as bodyguards. I'm sure you don't need prompting, but please feel free to spend today and tomorrow RPing amongst yourselves>
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"The most important step a person can take is always the next one." -Dalinar Kholin; Oathbringer
"I will not accompany you," Az says prompted, well more piqued, by the previous mental onslaught by two of the party to not be among the bodyguards number. "As you say sunblessed among your number might be taken badly," she adds arms still crossed before turning to Galius and Lucina curious of her answer about the elvish city making.
OOC: The DnD equivalent of 'ask your elf friend'....
Alexia nods quietly at Ishaz's concession and Garun's words, keeping her head down. At Galius's question, she blinks and listens for Lucina's answer, curious what the other half-elf knows about elf cities.
Riannis dives towards Galius, turning visible as she does, and flutters back into his horn curiously.
Lucina looks a bit caught of guard at the question, looking a bit thoughtful. "I suppose it truly depends on what materials you are able to get your hands on, such as wood, brick, stone. Typical things for regular housing that is sure to keep the ailments of weather from coming in while providing a bit comfort as well." She says rather honestly, briefly pausing for a moment to think. "However, I can't be truly sure. I haven't lived in area where many other elves were."
"We work with nature," Alexia adds simply in a soft voice. "The Ravenni, at least. We build alongside the jungle, or wherever we're living. In harmony with it." She glances at the town around her with a faint frown.
"Efficiency is a human trait though, why patiently sculpt a house around a tree to not harm it when you can hack it down, and then build how ever you wish. The elves live so long it doesn't matter how many years a job takes, my people want to achieve everything before they die, compromises have to made." the little man looks over the landscape as he speaks. "I do wish there could be at least a little beauty though."
“I see. For other races, this is a handicap overcome. A haven of security made from the very dangers of the land. For the elves, this must be like watching a reckless goblin horde mutilate his home. When every living tree can be a city, watching it become a dead wall would be... macabre.”
Galius looks at Riannis a bit surprised and delighted. He’ll hold up the trumpet in both hands for her to see it clearly.
"A shorter lifespan is no excuse for the massacre we just witnessed," Alexia says in a slightly chilly voice. "A life is not acceptable to sacrifice simply because someone doesn't have as much time to build a house and they can't hear its death cries." She turns away from the group, wrapping her arms around herself.
Riannis squeaks and flies out of the trumpet as Galius holds it up. "It's big and weird," she informs Galius in a tiny voice. "Not like anything I've seen before. Shiny, and it makes a big sound. Lexi told me it's an instrument, but her instrument didn't make a big sound like that."
"You are living with the wrong half of your people if you cannot at least understand what I mean, saying it out loud does not make me guilty of any crimes against nature though. I see your angle, I understand it, but you will not see the elven ways in these lands again. The armies of the Warmfather will not stop, their clergy will not relent and it is foolishness to wish for another outcome, believing it may come to pass." Having delivered his opinion bluntly Conor bows his head slightly "Hard words to hear maybe, for that I am sorry, but it is pointless to lie about it, His will shall be served, men like him" he nods at Valen "will ensure that."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Vhon - Level 2 Warlock - What shall become of the Drunken Sailor?
Alexia spins to face Conor, her dark grey eyes abruptly cold and flinty. "I don't wish," she says in an icy voice. "I do. I assist. And I protect. Your Warmfather is not the only one who has their will served in these lands."
"Dulcimer," Riannis tells Galius, then flies closer and whispers, "I don't think she wants to play with you though."
Alexia shows no sign of being aware of the conversation behind her, other than a brief sigh.
”Well, that’s a choice she makes. If you think she ever wants to make a different choice, let me know. I enjoy playing, but a duet would be new. I enjoy learning new things.”
Galius gives Conor a reprimanding look, and glances at Valen but says nothing.
Clearly emotions are rising. Arc listens to understand before offering a few words. "My experience is that we all bring valid perspectives with us from the past. We must be patient with others who have not lived 'in our shoes' I believe is the expression. I think we all agree that this desolation is sad and we would work to avoid such in the future if possible. Building on our similarities is the start of diplomacy."
Arc looks at the group for a time then changes the subject slightly. "I will volunteer as one of Ishaz's bodyguards. Who else is interested in this assignment?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Lot's of stuff ...
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(Then I will un-strike that, my mistake)
Paladin - warforged - orange
Alexia watches Ishaz and the rest of the group carefully, but doesn't say anything, turning an idea over in her mind.
Invisibly, Riannis flies out of Galius's horn and flutters above Ishaz's head.
Stella Diamant, Human Rogue 17 (Swashbuckler), The Exploits of Misfit Company
Kat, Medtech, Cyberpunk: Red
Shi, Changeling Bard 4 (College of Spirits), Tyrant's Grasp
Dani, Human Artificer 9 (Armorer), Skulls and Starships
DM, Project Point (Teams Scimitar and Longsword)
Everything Else!
(The night prior)
Valen passes the time through the night bouncing between his book, listening to Galius' music, and playing with the precocious little sprite hovering over his shoulder.
In the morning, he rises early, and stands on the lawn of the inn watching the sun rise. Without his battlefiled accoutrements, he could be mistaken for a simple traveling monk. Hanging from a chain in his hands rests a censor shaped like a sunburst and pouring thin wisps of smoking incense. The ritual was often modified on battlefields or travels, but it was required of all Blessed to be performed when hosted away from The Bastion's walls.
"Through darkest night, the dawn shall come. We are wardens and stewards. Shield of the fallen, bulwark for the weak, let darkness break itself upon our Walls and be cast down by our Hands."
(On the road)
Valen approaches Ishaz as he lounges atop the wagon, "Are the Elfslums really the only threat? I understand your apprehension at letting us near your business dealings, but would you at least let us stand guard outside whatever guild hall or tavern you go to? I would see you to safety after the troubles we had already."
Characters:
Grishkar Darkmoor, Necromancer of Nerull the Despiser
Kelvin Rabbitfoot, Diviner, con artist, always hunting for a good sale
Bründir Halfshield, Valor Bard, three-time Sheercleft Drinking Competition Champion, Hometown hero
Arc walks gratefully with Alexia and Azrael. He is his normal upbeat self, bantering about life and various creatures that might be about, until they reach the desolated area. Even as a forged he became noticeably subdued. His curiosity peaked as he noticed, even though she was trying to hide it, that Alexia was producing tears. Forged don't cry and the emotions and feelings produced in those who cry are difficult to understand. Yet he knows exactly what is producing those feelings as he is frustrated at the desolation much like Alexia.
He tries to relate to both Alexia and Azrael. "I have learned that tears are not something I can relate closely to. I understand what is causing them because I have frustration at this barren land like you, but I do not have the ability to produce tears. I have also learned that I can offend if I talk about emotions in a clinical way so please forgive me if I am being insensitive but I can sympathize to some degree. This is indeed a sad place." Then looking at Azrael's expression he says "And a frustrating place."
He watches Azrael's and Valen's questions to Ishaz and wants to help in some way. To Ishaz he says "Ishaz, I want you to understand our motivations. Even if we trust your intentions we have incentive to make sure you do not fail in your quest to bring back our payments. You have the final word but we are naturally incentivized to help you. Please consider this in your decision." Arc finishes speaking and steps back so as not to be threatening.
Lot's of stuff ...
Lucina freezes at the feeling of loss that suddenly washes over her, she stares forward in utter silence. Somewhat hugging herself with a deep frown on her face, slowly shaking her head. Any tears that forms she blinks away rather quickly, looking towards everyone else.
Ishaz smiles at Azrael, "I'm surprised to find myself agreeing with one thing you said there... I am indeed the boss."
He then turns his oily gaze to Valen, "The Elfslums are the largest threat in Barmouth, yes. Even then, I don't believe that elfs would attack me outright. I can't say the same for those two." He nods at Az and Galius and chuckles. "The Justice Ward, the Temple of the Sun and Barmouth Keep all maintain a prohibition on weapon carry and unsanctioned magic on the streets, enforced by constables from the Legion. While this law doesn't extend to other areas of town, the people tend to follow it. Sunbishop Garthmoor has a penchant for beaming those who cause trouble in his town." He listens intently as Arcast makes his case.
"You both make valid points, and I'm flattered that you care so much about my safety," he says with a wry smile, "Two of you may accompany me as bodyguards to Guildmaster Kwenthro's offices, who you choose matters not. The rest of you will wait at the Dragon and Bear in the Upper Dock Districts." He turns to Garun, Yanny and Lenk. "You three can do as you please, I'll see that your payment makes it to Captain Bullwish." The men seem pleased with this arrangement, and quickly fall into talking amongst themselves.
Garun soon turns to the group, "You lot'll be getting a good word put in with the captain. If you need work, there's a galley in the Lower Docks called The Greenfish. Tell them Garun sent you." He takes this opportunity to make his way around the group and shake the hands of each of you in thanks, with Yanny and Lenk soon following suit.
Corrigan calls back from the front wagon, "Losing daylight here people, let's get this last stint done with so I can spend m'wages on a fiery red-haired wench!" He laughs and taps the front-most mule with his reed, resuming the journey.
[OoC]: This will be my last big post until Monday. On Monday we'll reach the Elfslums north of the town. You should decide what you want to do upon reaching Barmouth, and who will be sent with Ishaz as bodyguards. I'm sure you don't need prompting, but please feel free to spend today and tomorrow RPing amongst yourselves>
"The most important step a person can take is always the next one." - Dalinar Kholin; Oathbringer
Galius will notice the strong reactions from the group about the clearer land and ask Lucina “What do the elves do to make cities?”
Paladin - warforged - orange
"I will not accompany you," Az says prompted, well more piqued, by the previous mental onslaught by two of the party to not be among the bodyguards number. "As you say sunblessed among your number might be taken badly," she adds arms still crossed before turning to Galius and Lucina curious of her answer about the elvish city making.
OOC: The DnD equivalent of 'ask your elf friend'....
Sometimes a Nat 1 tells a better story than a Nat 20 ever could.
Alexia nods quietly at Ishaz's concession and Garun's words, keeping her head down. At Galius's question, she blinks and listens for Lucina's answer, curious what the other half-elf knows about elf cities.
Riannis dives towards Galius, turning visible as she does, and flutters back into his horn curiously.
Stella Diamant, Human Rogue 17 (Swashbuckler), The Exploits of Misfit Company
Kat, Medtech, Cyberpunk: Red
Shi, Changeling Bard 4 (College of Spirits), Tyrant's Grasp
Dani, Human Artificer 9 (Armorer), Skulls and Starships
DM, Project Point (Teams Scimitar and Longsword)
Everything Else!
Lucina looks a bit caught of guard at the question, looking a bit thoughtful. "I suppose it truly depends on what materials you are able to get your hands on, such as wood, brick, stone. Typical things for regular housing that is sure to keep the ailments of weather from coming in while providing a bit comfort as well." She says rather honestly, briefly pausing for a moment to think. "However, I can't be truly sure. I haven't lived in area where many other elves were."
"We work with nature," Alexia adds simply in a soft voice. "The Ravenni, at least. We build alongside the jungle, or wherever we're living. In harmony with it." She glances at the town around her with a faint frown.
Stella Diamant, Human Rogue 17 (Swashbuckler), The Exploits of Misfit Company
Kat, Medtech, Cyberpunk: Red
Shi, Changeling Bard 4 (College of Spirits), Tyrant's Grasp
Dani, Human Artificer 9 (Armorer), Skulls and Starships
DM, Project Point (Teams Scimitar and Longsword)
Everything Else!
"Efficiency is a human trait though, why patiently sculpt a house around a tree to not harm it when you can hack it down, and then build how ever you wish. The elves live so long it doesn't matter how many years a job takes, my people want to achieve everything before they die, compromises have to made." the little man looks over the landscape as he speaks. "I do wish there could be at least a little beauty though."
Vhon - Level 2 Warlock - What shall become of the Drunken Sailor?
Lyreis - Level 6 Elf Fighter - Eberron: Omega
DM - Dzenda: The Cracks - DM - Dzenda: Whispered Tales
“I see. For other races, this is a handicap overcome. A haven of security made from the very dangers of the land. For the elves, this must be like watching a reckless goblin horde mutilate his home. When every living tree can be a city, watching it become a dead wall would be... macabre.”
Galius looks at Riannis a bit surprised and delighted. He’ll hold up the trumpet in both hands for her to see it clearly.
”Well hello there! Like my trumpet, do you?”
Paladin - warforged - orange
"A shorter lifespan is no excuse for the massacre we just witnessed," Alexia says in a slightly chilly voice. "A life is not acceptable to sacrifice simply because someone doesn't have as much time to build a house and they can't hear its death cries." She turns away from the group, wrapping her arms around herself.
Riannis squeaks and flies out of the trumpet as Galius holds it up. "It's big and weird," she informs Galius in a tiny voice. "Not like anything I've seen before. Shiny, and it makes a big sound. Lexi told me it's an instrument, but her instrument didn't make a big sound like that."
Stella Diamant, Human Rogue 17 (Swashbuckler), The Exploits of Misfit Company
Kat, Medtech, Cyberpunk: Red
Shi, Changeling Bard 4 (College of Spirits), Tyrant's Grasp
Dani, Human Artificer 9 (Armorer), Skulls and Starships
DM, Project Point (Teams Scimitar and Longsword)
Everything Else!
“Oh? And what does she play? Maybe we can play together sometime.”
Paladin - warforged - orange
"Dulcimer," Riannis tells Galius, then flies closer and whispers, "I don't think she wants to play with you though."
Alexia shows no sign of being aware of the conversation behind her, other than a brief sigh.
Stella Diamant, Human Rogue 17 (Swashbuckler), The Exploits of Misfit Company
Kat, Medtech, Cyberpunk: Red
Shi, Changeling Bard 4 (College of Spirits), Tyrant's Grasp
Dani, Human Artificer 9 (Armorer), Skulls and Starships
DM, Project Point (Teams Scimitar and Longsword)
Everything Else!
"You are living with the wrong half of your people if you cannot at least understand what I mean, saying it out loud does not make me guilty of any crimes against nature though. I see your angle, I understand it, but you will not see the elven ways in these lands again. The armies of the Warmfather will not stop, their clergy will not relent and it is foolishness to wish for another outcome, believing it may come to pass." Having delivered his opinion bluntly Conor bows his head slightly "Hard words to hear maybe, for that I am sorry, but it is pointless to lie about it, His will shall be served, men like him" he nods at Valen "will ensure that."
Vhon - Level 2 Warlock - What shall become of the Drunken Sailor?
Lyreis - Level 6 Elf Fighter - Eberron: Omega
DM - Dzenda: The Cracks - DM - Dzenda: Whispered Tales
Alexia spins to face Conor, her dark grey eyes abruptly cold and flinty. "I don't wish," she says in an icy voice. "I do. I assist. And I protect. Your Warmfather is not the only one who has their will served in these lands."
Stella Diamant, Human Rogue 17 (Swashbuckler), The Exploits of Misfit Company
Kat, Medtech, Cyberpunk: Red
Shi, Changeling Bard 4 (College of Spirits), Tyrant's Grasp
Dani, Human Artificer 9 (Armorer), Skulls and Starships
DM, Project Point (Teams Scimitar and Longsword)
Everything Else!
”Well, that’s a choice she makes. If you think she ever wants to make a different choice, let me know. I enjoy playing, but a duet would be new. I enjoy learning new things.”
Galius gives Conor a reprimanding look, and glances at Valen but says nothing.
Paladin - warforged - orange
Clearly emotions are rising. Arc listens to understand before offering a few words. "My experience is that we all bring valid perspectives with us from the past. We must be patient with others who have not lived 'in our shoes' I believe is the expression. I think we all agree that this desolation is sad and we would work to avoid such in the future if possible. Building on our similarities is the start of diplomacy."
Arc looks at the group for a time then changes the subject slightly. "I will volunteer as one of Ishaz's bodyguards. Who else is interested in this assignment?"
Lot's of stuff ...