As Ebb and same make their way to the gathering, he smiles. He always loved gatherings such as this that brought merriment and harmony. The joy on the faces of the common folk, the smell of fair food, laughs, ou’s, and ah's floating in the air as the entertainment was underway. When Sam bumped into the first commoner, Ebb didn’t really give it much thought. It did seem strange considering that from what the cleric had seen thus far. Same didn’t move without intention. Nore did the warrior lack spatial awareness. Ebb shook it off in order to take in more of the fun environment, but then Sam bumped into another, and took the man’s coin. The Verdan’s brow furls as he realized Sam had done the same to the pervious patron. He sighs and shakes his head as he rubs a thumb on his staff and says “Oh Hermes be with me.” Then seconds later he prays for success in the up coming endeavors. The eventuality that Ebb had been dreading occurred. Sam failed and angered a ‘mark’ as these types called it. They both fell and the knife meant for the purse’s draw string instead found clothing. The cleric stepped to Sam with true annoyance once he and the man stood then shoves the large Orcish party member with surprising strength. “IDIOT! The man is right, you are an oaf. ” He then turns to the perturbed man with apologetic look “I’m sorry about my muscle minded associate. I assure you he meant no harm. I can mend you clothing like new in a matter of seconds. Please, forgive me and my oaf friend and let’s all of us continue to enjoy our night. No reason to let a small unfortunate even to ruin a beautiful night.” Ebb holds his hands out offering to mend the cut in the man’s clothing and even any other minor wear on the man’s clothing. As he does so he looks up to Sam who hears the cleric in mind only
“This is Ebb. I can speak in minds not read them. No one else can hear us. I apologize for insulting you, however you have compromised us. One or two would have been fine but your greed has got us here. I beg you not be like those you hate.”
Features/Traits, Spells, and More
Features/traits: Emboldening Bond Limited Telepathy
Spells: Enhance Ability (2nd Lvl) - Eagle’s Splendor (adv on CHA rolls) Mending
Persuasion: 1/20+3+1=24
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Drow enthusiast Lover of lore and magic. -The White Crow-
Gewyn is leaning back against the bar in lively conversation with his new fans, one arm still being weighed down by Darla, and the other putting down a freshly emptied mug. He meets Elthana's eyes through the bustle as an enthusiastic patron puts another mug in his hand. He raises it a bit and gives a small smile and a nod back in Elthana, Sam, and Ebb's direction, a casual invitation, before seeming to turn his attention back to a rather red-faced fellow who appears to be in the middle of regaling him with a wild story amidst rowdy interjections from the others in the boisterous crowd.
The 'esteemed' and irritated man is helped up by Sam but quickly retracts himself away from the half orcs grasp, he listens to Ebb and seems more persuaded by the clerics words and offers of help than he is interested in whatever Sam has to say.
With a sneer at Sam his cloak is mended. The guards close in and as they are about to say something a voice calls out through the din "one of my clerics has seen to it that this minor conflict has resolved my good gentlemen, no need for law enforcement if an amicable conclusion has been reached I'm sure" a priest of Hermes, a small female Gnome appears from the crowd to one side of the disgruntled man and offers a bow, some of the guard mutter and begin to move away. Ebb recognises this woman as Habbog, the keeper of the house of QuAr in Trundlesten. The disgruntled man weighs up his heavy coin purse and stows it away, begrudgingly shrugging off this frightful interaction and taking himself off to the bar.
"Oaf??" Sam says to Ebb, a bit of anger in his voice. "Ok, fair enough... But idiot?" The Half-Orc glowers and growls... But it quickly turns into a boisterous laugh.
"Idiot is a step too far, my friend!" Sam continues around the laughter as he to Gewyn and then eyes the approaching gnome. "Numbskull, sure. Thick headed, certainly... But no, no, no... Never idiot!"
Sam then slaps Ebb on the back and chokes off the laughter. "Relax, friend. It was all going to work out one way or another... And I obviously needed the practice. Better I 'compromise' us here than when my skills may really make a difference, no?"
Overall, Sam finds it all great humor. He is apologetic about it, but not sorry or chastised.
"Ahhh, my savior is here," Sam says in a more serious and respectful tone when the gnome arrives. "I think Ebb had it, but you definitely sealed the deal."
Once the well to do man and his associates are off and the guards turn to other more pressing matters, Ebb matches Sam’s intensity then smiles
“Yes, I'm sorry for that. Never idiot.” Ebb replies with a smile and clap on his back. He then looks to Habbog
“My dear sister, thank you for your intervention. Sorry about causing a bit of a ruckus in your jurisdiction.” He says with a QuAr salute then continues “If you aren’t too busy, would you join us? I would like to confide in you if possible. Though, I would like to try our hand in that arm wrestling event.” He says as he eyes the event, but then also looks to where his fellows seem to be gathering.
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Drow enthusiast Lover of lore and magic. -The White Crow-
Habbog clasps her hands behind her back and gives a short bow, "sealed the deal indeed, I shall refrain from joining you just yet, but you may find me at my shelter later on, confiding in people should be a private affair after all, please try to stay out of trouble, the reputation of our order in this town is highly important!" She then walks off and leaves Sam and Ebb to find the Strong man challenge just across the clearing from them.
"Oh... Hope I didn't get you in trouble," Sam says with regret perhaps seeping into his tone for the first time. "I kind of forgot you weren't just a person, I guess. Well, that you represent something higher and such... You know what I mean."
"Come! Come, let's find this arm wrestling you mention... It's on me!" Sam follows up quickly, brightly.
Sam and Ebb quickly find themselves in front of the Goliath strongman's stage with the performer in question beckoning forth the worthy opponents he sees before him.
In response to Habbog’s bow Ebb gives her a salute accompanied by his own bow. “Thank you sister.” Is all he says and nods in acknowledgment to her reminder. Once she walks away, the Verdan looks at same side long and smirks. “No worries. I’m glad you understand my standing a bit better and I appreciate that. We are both of us representing something higher I think.” He says to his companion. He pays the half-orc’s strong shoulder and whispers a prayer casting Enhance Ability and uses Emboldening Bonf on himself and Sam to improve their odds. The duo feel a bit lighter as they approach the challenge. “Two of us. I’d like to go first please, if you don’t mind.” He says as he rolls up his sleeve revealing a surprising well tones and large arm. The robes had been hiding his physique until now but just this one arm shows the amount of hard work he had put himself through. ”ready when you are friend” he says to the challenged.
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Drow enthusiast Lover of lore and magic. -The White Crow-
Sam watches and is surprised by Ebbs performance. Sam certainly hadn't thought the fellow was flimsy but her did not expect such a holy man to be as prepared for physical labors as much as studious ones. This group seems designed to be full of surprises though so Sam mostly just filed the information away and cheers him on as her takes on the Goliath strongman. "You got this!" and similar shouts such as "C'mon, lean into it!" are shouted during the contest and then much huzzah after any Ebb wins.
When Ebb is done Sam claps him on the back and suggests they rejoin Gewyn and the others for a drink or two. "They should hear how well you did against the Goliath. Perhaps it could be turned into a song, even!" Sam jokes. He himself is not particularly eager to test his mettle and tries to blow it off at first. "Seems unfair to take advantage of the man after you just wore him out, doesn't it?" In part Sam is not eager to create another spectacle of himself after his previous blunder, and in part he certainly does not want to put in a worse showing than Ebb. He does have an image to project... and protect.
"Fine, fine," Sam eventually concedes. It doesn't take much convincing but Sam still puts forth the idea he's only doing it to hurry up the getting to the drinks portion of the evening...
"Come, man!" Sam shouts out to the Goliath. "If yer up to it, I'll take 10 gold from ya as well... Unless you are too worn out from dealing with the holy man, here."
Assuming the Goliath is up for more, Sam will take a moment to walk around in a circle for a bit, gathering up steam. He breaths in the scent of the festival - the spilled ales, the mass of bodies and the frivolity that lays over it all. The sounds add to it all, the chatter and the screaming, the music off in the distance... Sam moves about the crowd a bit, ostensibly moving through them to the challenge area but when surrounded by others he unleashes his Giant's Might for the challenge ahead. ((Sam finds a spot to use the feature where he doesn't have the room to grow - so he gets benefits except the size increase. He wouldn't want to look like he was using it!))
Sam is chatty and friendly but with an edge during the competition. He makes no show of it for any watchers or crowd but rather is just conversant with the Goliath. He makes no insults or even banter, it's more just chatter about how the other man enjoys the work and if he makes a decent income from it and such. Sam view the Goliath as an honest working man, more so than those selling watered down drinks at a premium or running games rigged from the get go. Surely the Goliath makes most his coin from fools doing it for a lark with no chance of success, but there's no harm in taking the money from fools...
Sam finds himself less than thrilled with his performance. Results aside, he just doesn't feel he really gave a good showing... Not quite the dominating show he'd have liked. ((18, 21 and 25)) It is what it is though, and Sam thanks the Goliath and shakes his hand when all is done...
"NOW... Time for a drink, finally?" Sam grumbles to Ebb in a friendly chuckle. "Winner can buy..."
As the others approach the bar, they find Gewyn still surrounded by tipsy patrons, listening politely to one man's account of a giant sea monster attacking Hokum. Gewyn leans forward and says "Well that is an incredible tale-"One of the others cuts in, "That's not what happened, Braxen, ya big sod. I know who you heard that rumour from and they've got no more've a clue than you do. It's obviously just market manipulation to drive up the prices of their goods. Anyone with half a brain could figure that out on their own." This sets off more arguing as yet others chime in with their theories.
Gewyn Bends his head to Darla as she speaks something undiscernible into his ear. He smiles at her and pats her arm before scanning the crowd subtly for his companions.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Vin exits the fortune teller's tent. He seems deep in thought as he leaves and Nef seems to be in good spirits as she leads the way through the crowd. The large black dog easily making a path for Vin to follow as they make their way through the various circus goers. They seem to make their way back tot he tavern where they both heard Gewyn performing earlier. As they make their way though the young man looks around to try and find someone of authority a guard or two perhaps. Vin spotting a couple keeping the peace in the town looks to Neferox and says "We should ask the local law enforcement what word from Hokum there has been recently." Nef looks back at the half-elf and then makes their way directly towards he guards. Various patrons of the circus clearing out of the way of the hound with red eyes. As Vin gets closer Nef looks back and Vin says to the hound "I know. I know."
Approaching the guard Vin waves. Unsure if they are nervous of his dog or not Vin takes the lead to talk to the guards as Nef moves into a familiar step of following like the teen's shadow. He greets them kindly, "Hello sirs." He gives a polite bow of his head slightly to the guards which Nef seems to scoff at "I was wondering if you two might be able to help me. You see, I'm planning to travel to Hokum but... I can't see to find any news about Hokum. I was hopeful to learn something before heading out tomorrow. Could you advise me before I am traveling or at least point me to someone with recent news?" Vin waits expectantly for them to answer and tries to get a sense of if there is worry, fear or something else going on at Hokum.
Elthana hangs back from the crowd around the bar, watching as some of her team enjoy themselves and partake in the festivities. Once there is word about Hokum.. she heads into the crowd a bit and as the group starts arguing about Hokum, she tries to find one that isn't completely in their drink and has sense about them, "What have you heard about Hokum? Seems there are lots of tales, so obviously something. Do you know or know who would?"
As Ebb approaches the Goliath's stage and announces his contest, the Goliath looks down to the cleric questioningly. When Ebb pulls a muscular arm from his clerical sleeves, the Goliath throws his own arms up in the air in surprised delight!
The crowd laughs and cheers at Ebbs contest as Tiny, the large Goliath, welcomes Ebb onto the stage and they both sit at a table elevated above the crowds eye level one arm out ready, "lock arms and at the count of three, we begin! ONE, TWO, THREE!" The moment Tiny finishes counting there is a moment of hush amongst the crowd, it looks like nothing is happening, then quick as a flash, Ebb's hand is slammed to one side, defeated. The Goliath smiles as the crowd roars with their mixed reaction, "let's hope round two can provide entertainment for longer eh? ONE, TWO, THREE!" The crowd falls quiet once more, and a bead of sweat rolls down Ebbs cheek, the smiling Goliath holds his own fir some time before his smile fades, and he grabs the other side of the table to steady himself, the crowd begins a low "ooooooh" which rises to crescendo as Ebb goes over the top and pins Tiny's arm to the wood with a thud, "seems the young cleric was holding out all along! There's all to play for as we go into the final round everyone!" Ebb clasps hands once more with Tiny, noting this time how clammy the Goliath's hand has become, he was nervous and surprised, but hiding it well with a showman's smile, "ONE, TWO, THREE!" The crowd hushes once more, and don't get a moment to catch their breath before Ebb slams the Goliath's hand down with ridiculous speed, there are a few gasps from the crowd as their silence persists a moment more, then they all lose their shit, whooping and cheering, jumping and laughing. Ebb get his coin from Tiny, who breaths heavy and wipes his brow, "This cleric is an exemplary asset to his order, very well done good sir, I think I'll be needing a breather before my next bout!! Ahhahaha!" He then leans to Ebb and whispers something in his ear before taking a rest.
With Sam ready and Tiny having taken a rest and gone back to warming the crowd up with shows of impressive strength and dexterity, Sam takes position and challenges the Strongman.
"Same rules as before! Best of three wins and we go on the count of three, lock arms and take up position" as Sam sits down and locks hand and eyes with this man there is more of an intimate competition than was seen between Tiny and Ebb. The Goliath man only gives the audience a glance as he loudly counts in "ONE, TWO, THREE!" and the two begin, the interlocked hands wobble a little and there is a struggle for a full minute before Sam begins to get a small lead, the pair both begin straining, sweating and bracing themselves against the sides of this wooden table which begins creaking in protest, Tiny redoubles his efforts and with a heaving grunt manages to get Sam's hand most of the way down, as Sam fights back there is a moment of hope before he realises that he is already beyond his means, and Sam's hand touches the table...
Neither of these bulking men hear the crowd over the pump of blood rushing through their ears, they simply nod to one another exchanging small talk on income, apparently the man is impressed with the talent here in Trundlesten and doesn't normally lose, but as they lock hands Tiny has no encouragement for the crowd, he merely shouts once more, "ONE, TWO, THREE!" And the struggle begins anew, no full minute this time, Sam can see that this man is coming to the end of his usefulness, he has seen exhaustion like this in workers before and wonders how long this man has been performing today. Coming out of his tangential thoughts, Sam realises he is in mid struggle and outs in a little more effort, easily pushing Tiny's hand past the point of no return and then defeating the Goliath at his own game, a win each, the crowd looks on with abject enjoyment in their calls and across their faces, "All to play for once more my friends, perhaps this man will take home the coin he is willing to fight for, we'll find out in, and say it with me now! ONE, TWO, THREE!" as the man finishes counting, with the crowd punctuating his words, Sam overpowers him almost immediately, Tiny gets up with a mix of competitive camaraderie about him but also a tinge of frustration, as he bows to Sam and then to the crowd, "Here is where I call it a night for the challenges folks, a man has his limits and mine have been thoroughly tested, I thank you for your appreciation and your donation! Thank you and goodnight", with that, he lightly kicks a hat containing a mix of coin which is located at the front of his stage in unsubtle reminder as he hands Sam his well earned coin and whispers something in his ear too.
Elthana finds Gewyn with a swathe of unsteady drinkers at the bar, they chat and jeer around him. Gewyn himself seems to have a plethora of drinks at his disposal, partaking merrily, however, he does look admittedly sober in comparison to the crowd that he has charmed with his songs and stories.
Elthana finds one person who looks to still have their wits about them, and upon any questioning they become slightly somber, their merry face turning grave. "people have been talking up a storm, predictions and rumour, but the truth is that no news has reached us. They sent out guard, they sent out some adventurers, said don't worry, no news is good news but I fear something bad. If you're headed out that way have your wits about you, please. If you hear any news do your best to get back and let us know" with that the somber drinker pats Elthana on the back and hands her a drink, he then takes his leave.
Vin finds a pair of guards patrolling, their marbled legion uniforms and armour worn slightly looser and relaxed than he is used to seeing within the city walls. One of the guard straightens up a little and with a practiced authority says "there's currently nothing to report from the community of Hokum, general advice is to not travel to the region until any perceived issues have been worked out by the guard, we are working on opening the region once more but until that time, please do not worry" he then gives a salute and begins to walk away. The second guard, however straight they stand or in control they look, decidedly doesn't speak, they keep their eyes on the ground and look slightly worried with the short glances they do dare to give Vin.
As the guard that spoke walks away Vin turns to the one that seems worried and nervous. Vin doesn't chastise and instead understands they might be under orders or something. Who know what the guards have been hearing. Vin knows there is something being said, some rumor of someone has to have made it here. An entire town doesn't just vanish. There just isn't anyway no one has heard anything. The way the other guard responded almost seemed scripted like they know something but don't want the rest of Trundlesten to know. He looks to the guard remaining and says "I don't want to get you in trouble but... I have to go to Hokum. If there is danger, can you tell me anything at all? Something so I can at least prepare myself? Should I stay off the main roads? Is there something dangerous I need to avoid or be on the lookout for? Are there bandits? I know I'm young and inexperienced but... if I don't even have a faint clue of what is happening how would I protect myself at all?" Vin tries to reason with the remaining guard to give him at least a clue.
After receiving a reply from them the boy and his dog make their way to find their companions and where they heard their ally Gewyn signing. They find them at the open air tavern setup and also spot their other companions here as they just find a place to sit, listen and watch. Enjoying gthe energy of the circus.
After the contest, Sam tosses one of the gold he won into the hat before jumping off the stage and reuniting with Ebb.
"You surprised me," Sam says clapping his companion on the back and pushing them both through the crowd. "You may have even made a go for all three rounds if the countdown was fair!" Sam banters a bit back and for with Ebb regarding their matches while idly leading them towards Gewyn for lack of a better direction to head in. "All in all can't complain about 10 gold apiece! And to think "Tiny" there told me to go seek my fortune! I could have won it right there with just a few more matches, eh?"
Elthana is about to respond to the somber drinker, until they put a drink in her hand. She looks up to him as he walks away, unsure of what to say. She looks around to the other party goers and back to the drink. Unsure of what to do at this particular juncture, she watches Gewyn as he seems to be in his element. She finally makes a decision and downs the drink, all in one foul swoop. She wipes her mouth with the back of her hand as she stands there, unsure of what to do next.
As she stands motionless, letting the warmth of the drink hit her, she notices the monk tabaxis out of the corner of her eye..
Gewyn has moved on to story-telling, working through one of the epics that most everyone in the area would be familiar with, but with a flair and panache that few would be used to. As he wraps up the tale to a cheer for the story's hero, he sees Sam and Ebb approaching through the crowd.
"Ahh, I spy a familiar face! Sam, get over here!"Gewyn takes the opportunity to reclaim his arm, saying"Pardon my leave, darling Darla," and walks over to the large man. Slapping him on the back, (with hand cupped to enhance the sound of the impact without hitting too hard) Gewyn turns to the crowd and says, "I kid you not, I once saw this man cow a wolf the size of a horse just by staring at it. Of course, lest you think these muscles are just for show, he and his buddy Ebb here had already put down five of the beast's kin by that point. Saved my skin, they did. Let's get these gents a drink!" Turning to Sam and Ebb, he says, still loudly enough to be overheard, "How are you two getting on? Enjoying the festivities, I hope?"
As Ebb and same make their way to the gathering, he smiles. He always loved gatherings such as this that brought merriment and harmony. The joy on the faces of the common folk, the smell of fair food, laughs, ou’s, and ah's floating in the air as the entertainment was underway.
When Sam bumped into the first commoner, Ebb didn’t really give it much thought. It did seem strange considering that from what the cleric had seen thus far. Same didn’t move without intention. Nore did the warrior lack spatial awareness. Ebb shook it off in order to take in more of the fun environment, but then Sam bumped into another, and took the man’s coin. The Verdan’s brow furls as he realized Sam had done the same to the pervious patron. He sighs and shakes his head as he rubs a thumb on his staff and says “Oh Hermes be with me.” Then seconds later he prays for success in the up coming endeavors.
The eventuality that Ebb had been dreading occurred. Sam failed and angered a ‘mark’ as these types called it. They both fell and the knife meant for the purse’s draw string instead found clothing. The cleric stepped to Sam with true annoyance once he and the man stood then shoves the large Orcish party member with surprising strength. “IDIOT! The man is right, you are an oaf. ” He then turns to the perturbed man with apologetic look “I’m sorry about my muscle minded associate. I assure you he meant no harm. I can mend you clothing like new in a matter of seconds. Please, forgive me and my oaf friend and let’s all of us continue to enjoy our night. No reason to let a small unfortunate even to ruin a beautiful night.”
Ebb holds his hands out offering to mend the cut in the man’s clothing and even any other minor wear on the man’s clothing. As he does so he looks up to Sam who hears the cleric in mind only
“This is Ebb. I can speak in minds not read them. No one else can hear us. I apologize for insulting you, however you have compromised us. One or two would have been fine but your greed has got us here. I beg you not be like those you hate.”
Features/Traits, Spells, and More
Features/traits:
Emboldening Bond
Limited Telepathy
Spells:
Enhance Ability (2nd Lvl) - Eagle’s Splendor (adv on CHA rolls)
Mending
Persuasion: 1/20+3+1=24
Drow enthusiast
Lover of lore and magic.
-The White Crow-
Gewyn is leaning back against the bar in lively conversation with his new fans, one arm still being weighed down by Darla, and the other putting down a freshly emptied mug. He meets Elthana's eyes through the bustle as an enthusiastic patron puts another mug in his hand. He raises it a bit and gives a small smile and a nod back in Elthana, Sam, and Ebb's direction, a casual invitation, before seeming to turn his attention back to a rather red-faced fellow who appears to be in the middle of regaling him with a wild story amidst rowdy interjections from the others in the boisterous crowd.
The 'esteemed' and irritated man is helped up by Sam but quickly retracts himself away from the half orcs grasp, he listens to Ebb and seems more persuaded by the clerics words and offers of help than he is interested in whatever Sam has to say.
With a sneer at Sam his cloak is mended. The guards close in and as they are about to say something a voice calls out through the din "one of my clerics has seen to it that this minor conflict has resolved my good gentlemen, no need for law enforcement if an amicable conclusion has been reached I'm sure" a priest of Hermes, a small female Gnome appears from the crowd to one side of the disgruntled man and offers a bow, some of the guard mutter and begin to move away. Ebb recognises this woman as Habbog, the keeper of the house of QuAr in Trundlesten. The disgruntled man weighs up his heavy coin purse and stows it away, begrudgingly shrugging off this frightful interaction and taking himself off to the bar.
"Oaf??" Sam says to Ebb, a bit of anger in his voice. "Ok, fair enough... But idiot?" The Half-Orc glowers and growls... But it quickly turns into a boisterous laugh.
"Idiot is a step too far, my friend!" Sam continues around the laughter as he to Gewyn and then eyes the approaching gnome. "Numbskull, sure. Thick headed, certainly... But no, no, no... Never idiot!"
Sam then slaps Ebb on the back and chokes off the laughter. "Relax, friend. It was all going to work out one way or another... And I obviously needed the practice. Better I 'compromise' us here than when my skills may really make a difference, no?"
Overall, Sam finds it all great humor. He is apologetic about it, but not sorry or chastised.
"Ahhh, my savior is here," Sam says in a more serious and respectful tone when the gnome arrives. "I think Ebb had it, but you definitely sealed the deal."
Once the well to do man and his associates are off and the guards turn to other more pressing matters, Ebb matches Sam’s intensity then smiles
“Yes, I'm sorry for that. Never idiot.” Ebb replies with a smile and clap on his back. He then looks to Habbog
“My dear sister, thank you for your intervention. Sorry about causing a bit of a ruckus in your jurisdiction.” He says with a QuAr salute then continues “If you aren’t too busy, would you join us? I would like to confide in you if possible. Though, I would like to try our hand in that arm wrestling event.” He says as he eyes the event, but then also looks to where his fellows seem to be gathering.
Drow enthusiast
Lover of lore and magic.
-The White Crow-
Habbog clasps her hands behind her back and gives a short bow, "sealed the deal indeed, I shall refrain from joining you just yet, but you may find me at my shelter later on, confiding in people should be a private affair after all, please try to stay out of trouble, the reputation of our order in this town is highly important!" She then walks off and leaves Sam and Ebb to find the Strong man challenge just across the clearing from them.
"Oh... Hope I didn't get you in trouble," Sam says with regret perhaps seeping into his tone for the first time. "I kind of forgot you weren't just a person, I guess. Well, that you represent something higher and such... You know what I mean."
"Come! Come, let's find this arm wrestling you mention... It's on me!" Sam follows up quickly, brightly.
Sam and Ebb quickly find themselves in front of the Goliath strongman's stage with the performer in question beckoning forth the worthy opponents he sees before him.
In response to Habbog’s bow Ebb gives her a salute accompanied by his own bow. “Thank you sister.” Is all he says and nods in acknowledgment to her reminder.
Once she walks away, the Verdan looks at same side long and smirks. “No worries. I’m glad you understand my standing a bit better and I appreciate that. We are both of us representing something higher I think.” He says to his companion. He pays the half-orc’s strong shoulder and whispers a prayer casting Enhance Ability and uses Emboldening Bonf on himself and Sam to improve their odds. The duo feel a bit lighter as they approach the challenge. “Two of us. I’d like to go first please, if you don’t mind.” He says as he rolls up his sleeve revealing a surprising well tones and large arm. The robes had been hiding his physique until now but just this one arm shows the amount of hard work he had put himself through. ”ready when you are friend” he says to the challenged.
Drow enthusiast
Lover of lore and magic.
-The White Crow-
Sam watches and is surprised by Ebbs performance. Sam certainly hadn't thought the fellow was flimsy but her did not expect such a holy man to be as prepared for physical labors as much as studious ones. This group seems designed to be full of surprises though so Sam mostly just filed the information away and cheers him on as her takes on the Goliath strongman. "You got this!" and similar shouts such as "C'mon, lean into it!" are shouted during the contest and then much huzzah after any Ebb wins.
When Ebb is done Sam claps him on the back and suggests they rejoin Gewyn and the others for a drink or two. "They should hear how well you did against the Goliath. Perhaps it could be turned into a song, even!" Sam jokes. He himself is not particularly eager to test his mettle and tries to blow it off at first. "Seems unfair to take advantage of the man after you just wore him out, doesn't it?" In part Sam is not eager to create another spectacle of himself after his previous blunder, and in part he certainly does not want to put in a worse showing than Ebb. He does have an image to project... and protect.
"Fine, fine," Sam eventually concedes. It doesn't take much convincing but Sam still puts forth the idea he's only doing it to hurry up the getting to the drinks portion of the evening...
"Come, man!" Sam shouts out to the Goliath. "If yer up to it, I'll take 10 gold from ya as well... Unless you are too worn out from dealing with the holy man, here."
Assuming the Goliath is up for more, Sam will take a moment to walk around in a circle for a bit, gathering up steam. He breaths in the scent of the festival - the spilled ales, the mass of bodies and the frivolity that lays over it all. The sounds add to it all, the chatter and the screaming, the music off in the distance... Sam moves about the crowd a bit, ostensibly moving through them to the challenge area but when surrounded by others he unleashes his Giant's Might for the challenge ahead. ((Sam finds a spot to use the feature where he doesn't have the room to grow - so he gets benefits except the size increase. He wouldn't want to look like he was using it!))
Sam is chatty and friendly but with an edge during the competition. He makes no show of it for any watchers or crowd but rather is just conversant with the Goliath. He makes no insults or even banter, it's more just chatter about how the other man enjoys the work and if he makes a decent income from it and such. Sam view the Goliath as an honest working man, more so than those selling watered down drinks at a premium or running games rigged from the get go. Surely the Goliath makes most his coin from fools doing it for a lark with no chance of success, but there's no harm in taking the money from fools...
Sam finds himself less than thrilled with his performance. Results aside, he just doesn't feel he really gave a good showing... Not quite the dominating show he'd have liked. ((18, 21 and 25)) It is what it is though, and Sam thanks the Goliath and shakes his hand when all is done...
"NOW... Time for a drink, finally?" Sam grumbles to Ebb in a friendly chuckle. "Winner can buy..."
As the others approach the bar, they find Gewyn still surrounded by tipsy patrons, listening politely to one man's account of a giant sea monster attacking Hokum. Gewyn leans forward and says "Well that is an incredible tale-" One of the others cuts in, "That's not what happened, Braxen, ya big sod. I know who you heard that rumour from and they've got no more've a clue than you do. It's obviously just market manipulation to drive up the prices of their goods. Anyone with half a brain could figure that out on their own." This sets off more arguing as yet others chime in with their theories.
Gewyn Bends his head to Darla as she speaks something undiscernible into his ear. He smiles at her and pats her arm before scanning the crowd subtly for his companions.
Vin exits the fortune teller's tent. He seems deep in thought as he leaves and Nef seems to be in good spirits as she leads the way through the crowd. The large black dog easily making a path for Vin to follow as they make their way through the various circus goers. They seem to make their way back tot he tavern where they both heard Gewyn performing earlier. As they make their way though the young man looks around to try and find someone of authority a guard or two perhaps. Vin spotting a couple keeping the peace in the town looks to Neferox and says "We should ask the local law enforcement what word from Hokum there has been recently." Nef looks back at the half-elf and then makes their way directly towards he guards. Various patrons of the circus clearing out of the way of the hound with red eyes. As Vin gets closer Nef looks back and Vin says to the hound "I know. I know."
Approaching the guard Vin waves. Unsure if they are nervous of his dog or not Vin takes the lead to talk to the guards as Nef moves into a familiar step of following like the teen's shadow. He greets them kindly, "Hello sirs." He gives a polite bow of his head slightly to the guards which Nef seems to scoff at "I was wondering if you two might be able to help me. You see, I'm planning to travel to Hokum but... I can't see to find any news about Hokum. I was hopeful to learn something before heading out tomorrow. Could you advise me before I am traveling or at least point me to someone with recent news?" Vin waits expectantly for them to answer and tries to get a sense of if there is worry, fear or something else going on at Hokum.
Skill Check Insight: 7
Elthana hangs back from the crowd around the bar, watching as some of her team enjoy themselves and partake in the festivities. Once there is word about Hokum.. she heads into the crowd a bit and as the group starts arguing about Hokum, she tries to find one that isn't completely in their drink and has sense about them, "What have you heard about Hokum? Seems there are lots of tales, so obviously something. Do you know or know who would?"
As Ebb approaches the Goliath's stage and announces his contest, the Goliath looks down to the cleric questioningly. When Ebb pulls a muscular arm from his clerical sleeves, the Goliath throws his own arms up in the air in surprised delight!
The crowd laughs and cheers at Ebbs contest as Tiny, the large Goliath, welcomes Ebb onto the stage and they both sit at a table elevated above the crowds eye level one arm out ready, "lock arms and at the count of three, we begin! ONE, TWO, THREE!" The moment Tiny finishes counting there is a moment of hush amongst the crowd, it looks like nothing is happening, then quick as a flash, Ebb's hand is slammed to one side, defeated. The Goliath smiles as the crowd roars with their mixed reaction, "let's hope round two can provide entertainment for longer eh? ONE, TWO, THREE!" The crowd falls quiet once more, and a bead of sweat rolls down Ebbs cheek, the smiling Goliath holds his own fir some time before his smile fades, and he grabs the other side of the table to steady himself, the crowd begins a low "ooooooh" which rises to crescendo as Ebb goes over the top and pins Tiny's arm to the wood with a thud, "seems the young cleric was holding out all along! There's all to play for as we go into the final round everyone!" Ebb clasps hands once more with Tiny, noting this time how clammy the Goliath's hand has become, he was nervous and surprised, but hiding it well with a showman's smile, "ONE, TWO, THREE!" The crowd hushes once more, and don't get a moment to catch their breath before Ebb slams the Goliath's hand down with ridiculous speed, there are a few gasps from the crowd as their silence persists a moment more, then they all lose their shit, whooping and cheering, jumping and laughing. Ebb get his coin from Tiny, who breaths heavy and wipes his brow, "This cleric is an exemplary asset to his order, very well done good sir, I think I'll be needing a breather before my next bout!! Ahhahaha!" He then leans to Ebb and whispers something in his ear before taking a rest.
With Sam ready and Tiny having taken a rest and gone back to warming the crowd up with shows of impressive strength and dexterity, Sam takes position and challenges the Strongman.
"Same rules as before! Best of three wins and we go on the count of three, lock arms and take up position" as Sam sits down and locks hand and eyes with this man there is more of an intimate competition than was seen between Tiny and Ebb. The Goliath man only gives the audience a glance as he loudly counts in "ONE, TWO, THREE!" and the two begin, the interlocked hands wobble a little and there is a struggle for a full minute before Sam begins to get a small lead, the pair both begin straining, sweating and bracing themselves against the sides of this wooden table which begins creaking in protest, Tiny redoubles his efforts and with a heaving grunt manages to get Sam's hand most of the way down, as Sam fights back there is a moment of hope before he realises that he is already beyond his means, and Sam's hand touches the table...
Neither of these bulking men hear the crowd over the pump of blood rushing through their ears, they simply nod to one another exchanging small talk on income, apparently the man is impressed with the talent here in Trundlesten and doesn't normally lose, but as they lock hands Tiny has no encouragement for the crowd, he merely shouts once more, "ONE, TWO, THREE!" And the struggle begins anew, no full minute this time, Sam can see that this man is coming to the end of his usefulness, he has seen exhaustion like this in workers before and wonders how long this man has been performing today. Coming out of his tangential thoughts, Sam realises he is in mid struggle and outs in a little more effort, easily pushing Tiny's hand past the point of no return and then defeating the Goliath at his own game, a win each, the crowd looks on with abject enjoyment in their calls and across their faces, "All to play for once more my friends, perhaps this man will take home the coin he is willing to fight for, we'll find out in, and say it with me now! ONE, TWO, THREE!" as the man finishes counting, with the crowd punctuating his words, Sam overpowers him almost immediately, Tiny gets up with a mix of competitive camaraderie about him but also a tinge of frustration, as he bows to Sam and then to the crowd, "Here is where I call it a night for the challenges folks, a man has his limits and mine have been thoroughly tested, I thank you for your appreciation and your donation! Thank you and goodnight", with that, he lightly kicks a hat containing a mix of coin which is located at the front of his stage in unsubtle reminder as he hands Sam his well earned coin and whispers something in his ear too.
Elthana finds Gewyn with a swathe of unsteady drinkers at the bar, they chat and jeer around him. Gewyn himself seems to have a plethora of drinks at his disposal, partaking merrily, however, he does look admittedly sober in comparison to the crowd that he has charmed with his songs and stories.
Elthana finds one person who looks to still have their wits about them, and upon any questioning they become slightly somber, their merry face turning grave. "people have been talking up a storm, predictions and rumour, but the truth is that no news has reached us. They sent out guard, they sent out some adventurers, said don't worry, no news is good news but I fear something bad. If you're headed out that way have your wits about you, please. If you hear any news do your best to get back and let us know" with that the somber drinker pats Elthana on the back and hands her a drink, he then takes his leave.
Vin finds a pair of guards patrolling, their marbled legion uniforms and armour worn slightly looser and relaxed than he is used to seeing within the city walls. One of the guard straightens up a little and with a practiced authority says "there's currently nothing to report from the community of Hokum, general advice is to not travel to the region until any perceived issues have been worked out by the guard, we are working on opening the region once more but until that time, please do not worry" he then gives a salute and begins to walk away. The second guard, however straight they stand or in control they look, decidedly doesn't speak, they keep their eyes on the ground and look slightly worried with the short glances they do dare to give Vin.
As the guard that spoke walks away Vin turns to the one that seems worried and nervous. Vin doesn't chastise and instead understands they might be under orders or something. Who know what the guards have been hearing. Vin knows there is something being said, some rumor of someone has to have made it here. An entire town doesn't just vanish. There just isn't anyway no one has heard anything. The way the other guard responded almost seemed scripted like they know something but don't want the rest of Trundlesten to know. He looks to the guard remaining and says "I don't want to get you in trouble but... I have to go to Hokum. If there is danger, can you tell me anything at all? Something so I can at least prepare myself? Should I stay off the main roads? Is there something dangerous I need to avoid or be on the lookout for? Are there bandits? I know I'm young and inexperienced but... if I don't even have a faint clue of what is happening how would I protect myself at all?" Vin tries to reason with the remaining guard to give him at least a clue.
After receiving a reply from them the boy and his dog make their way to find their companions and where they heard their ally Gewyn signing. They find them at the open air tavern setup and also spot their other companions here as they just find a place to sit, listen and watch. Enjoying gthe energy of the circus.
After the contest, Sam tosses one of the gold he won into the hat before jumping off the stage and reuniting with Ebb.
"You surprised me," Sam says clapping his companion on the back and pushing them both through the crowd. "You may have even made a go for all three rounds if the countdown was fair!" Sam banters a bit back and for with Ebb regarding their matches while idly leading them towards Gewyn for lack of a better direction to head in. "All in all can't complain about 10 gold apiece! And to think "Tiny" there told me to go seek my fortune! I could have won it right there with just a few more matches, eh?"
Elthana is about to respond to the somber drinker, until they put a drink in her hand. She looks up to him as he walks away, unsure of what to say. She looks around to the other party goers and back to the drink. Unsure of what to do at this particular juncture, she watches Gewyn as he seems to be in his element. She finally makes a decision and downs the drink, all in one foul swoop. She wipes her mouth with the back of her hand as she stands there, unsure of what to do next.
As she stands motionless, letting the warmth of the drink hit her, she notices the monk tabaxis out of the corner of her eye..
Gewyn has moved on to story-telling, working through one of the epics that most everyone in the area would be familiar with, but with a flair and panache that few would be used to. As he wraps up the tale to a cheer for the story's hero, he sees Sam and Ebb approaching through the crowd.
"Ahh, I spy a familiar face! Sam, get over here!" Gewyn takes the opportunity to reclaim his arm, saying "Pardon my leave, darling Darla," and walks over to the large man. Slapping him on the back, (with hand cupped to enhance the sound of the impact without hitting too hard) Gewyn turns to the crowd and says, "I kid you not, I once saw this man cow a wolf the size of a horse just by staring at it. Of course, lest you think these muscles are just for show, he and his buddy Ebb here had already put down five of the beast's kin by that point. Saved my skin, they did. Let's get these gents a drink!" Turning to Sam and Ebb, he says, still loudly enough to be overheard, "How are you two getting on? Enjoying the festivities, I hope?"