"Oh." Vice raised his eyebrows, surprised. But he'll definitely take it. "Sounds good." He's happy to get some free time, plus, he did work very hard. The ringmaster seems to be in a good mood, probably won't even mind if he comes back a little late. He leaves the horses, looking back to see them being led back into the tent. He hums while he strides into the fair crowd, browsing the various shops and activities that had been set up. He plans to wonder for a bit, then join Nicolai after the sun sets.
"I guess I'll be heading to Daggerford," he says. "But I certainly won't be able to stop a pack of werewolves on my own. Do you know of anyone currently looking into it, either here in Waterdeep or in Daggerford to whom I could offer my services or request assistance?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"An excellent choice," assures Star, plucking a few slow notes, his claws giving him a plectrum on each finger. "Here is one I have learned since arriving on your shores. It is the story of Galenia and Patrolio."
He sings the story of two young lovers, only children of rival families whose houses faced each other across the Neverwinter River in the heart of the city. Their love grew each time they met - in the market, in the theatre - though they knew they could never be together. Patrolio plans to escape with Galenia by boat in dead of night, rowing under her balcony from which she will drop into his arms. But he was overheard... Whether it was by a member of his own house or hers, Patrolio made his way out into the river, only to find that someone had drilled a hole into the bottom. As the boat sunk beneath the water, Galenia came onto her balcony to wait. She waited until sunrise, then, believing Patrolio had abandoned her, she threw herself into the river and drowned. It is said that their bones lie yards from each other, cruelly kept from being with their love, even in death.
Going to risk a performance roll, it could spoil the whole thing: 18
The Vistani have continued to work on gathering wood for the fire. By now, the Vistani have built the fire to a considerable height. Once lit, the fire will be seen by those within the walls of Daggerford. This might grab the attention of Duchess Morwen but also those within a couple of miles of the camp. However, for the time being, it looks like the Vistani are not ready to light the fire.
However, with the help of a couple of the other men, Stanimir collects three barrels of wine from one of the wagons. They then position the barrels on the ground, with enough distance from the fire. Stanimir opens the first of the three barrels and fills up a goblet.
@Vice(WhiteByakko)
Vice wonders around the festival but doesn't find much worth buying. There are various places to buy the odd trinket. He finds a bright green feather for sale in one stall, a multicoloured stone disk, and a set of bone pipes. There is an ornate brooch of a dwarven design in another booth, a glass eye and an alabaster mask. However, all of these trinkets seem to fascinate the people of Daggerford.
However, in another part of Daggerford, Vice spots a few people taking turns shooting a bow at a target. Whilst, elsewhere, a group of people are running around kicking a ball. Yet, in another area, people roll a ball to knock down wooden objects.
@Kal(VanderLegion)
The barkeep thinks for a moment.
"I think a few people are trying to investigate the werewolf problem. However, they belong to different factions and would likely not work with those who don't swear allegiance to them.
The heads of the Order of the Gauntlet chapter house are here in Waterdeep. The Lord's Alliance also operates in Waterdeep.
On the other hand, you could head down to Daggerford and try and build a group of people who would be interested in helping out. Most able folks are willing to help out children."
@Star(EMIW)
Star's performance is very moving and captures Han's imagination. However, before he can offer thanks for the performance, the boat enters a rough section of the river.
"Hold on tight!" Hans warns over the sounds of the river. He skillfully steers the boat through the rapid water, instinctively knowing where each protruding rock is and how much to steer to safely navigate the boat.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“The secret we should never let the gamemasters know is that they don't need any rules.” ― Gary Gygax
"My family lives in Bowshot. It's a few days' walk away, to the south." She thinks for a moment, then adds: "Perhaps a little to the east, too. Southeast, then." Though, she doesn't remember meeting Juniper in the past. With that said, she had met many people of various types, and she doesn't remember most. The guests of an inn come and go. Besides, Elves could be much older than they seemed. This Elf could possibly be old enough to have seen her when she was a baby, though that sort of coincidence doesn't really happen in real life, right? "Oh, you have an... umm..." Emma gestures to point Juniper to the smudge, but perhaps she isn't clear enough. "May I?" She holds her hand out, suggesting to clean it off for her.
If Juniper does not agree for whatever reason, Emma will simply say: "On your nose." Perhaps it was what she should have said first, but sometimes the right word just eludes one when one needs it. If Juniper allows Emma to help her, she'll clean the pollen away, then naturally clean her finger on her overdress. She's so used to having an apron on that, when there is none, she forgets she can't wipe her hands on her clothes.
Either way, she will then ask Juniper: "How about you, your family? Are you from around this area?" Depending on Juniper, they might make a conversation, or not. Emma had built a habit of mostly answering questions, or asking the same questions one asked her. The innkeeper doesn't ask her guests questions. Either way, Emma would occasionally watch the growing pile of woods with some concern. How will the Duchess respond if she sees the fire? If she sends her men, Emma could tell them that the Vitsani promised to leave before dawn, as requested. The Duchess said she doesn't want any bloodshed, though.
Juniper gives her full attention to Emma, and when the guilds woman offers to de-smudge her nose, the elf assents sheepishly, her dark sepia complexion just slightly reddening while her eyes cross watching Emma’s finger. Seeing the pollen come away, she growls, a sound just slightly more terrifying than an angry gerbil. “Thank you,” she offers, “that’s life in the woods in a nutshell. Life in all its splendor has a way of tagging along, and you’re never really clean. Me? I’ve been living these last few years on Gillian’s Hill, but mostly keeping to myself. I love people, but… I also love keeping my own company. I like to think. And, I make friends easily, so it never feels too lonely.” She was speaking in reference to the winged and four-footed variety of beings primarily, but had learned that most people did not quite understand, so left that part out.
“Have you long been in the duchess’ employ?,” she asks, while offering her last magnolia blossom to Emma (“Don’t worry, I can find more.”)
Vice’s attention is drawn to a set of bone pipes on the merchant’s table. He goes to pick it up, plays with it in his hands, the bone pipes clank against the gold ring he wears on his index finger. He thought it might make a fun gift for Apep. When he gets the merchant’s attention, he asks, “How much is this?”
All Star can do is cling on tightly, so tight he leaves gouges in the wood with his claws. Just when he had been starting to enjoy this trip as well. He can't bear to watch as Hans misses the river rocks by less than the width of his tail. He closes his eyes and prays to the Cat Lord for salvation from a wet, and no doubt painful, end at the bottom of the Delimbyr, and doesn't open them again until the river has calmed.
After pondering for a moment, Kal says, "I know the Lord's Alliance sometimes hires people to complete jobs for them that aren't already a member of the faction, so I believe I'll try to contact them first. If that doesn't pan out, I'll see what I can find in Daggerford."
"Thank you for the assistance and, especially, the information," Kal tells the barkeep, pressing a couple gold coins into the other man's hand. (I only have 5 atm, so we'll say I hand him 2 gold).
(Am I safe to assume I'd know somewhere I could go to contact the Lord's Alliance since I've been living in waterdeep? If not, I'll ask the barkeep before I leave, or can roll something if you want)
Assuming I manage to get there and can talk to someone about why I'm there:
"I just met a man who claims to have narrowly escaped from werewolves that killed his wife and, strangely, kidnapped his children," he explains. "I'm told that there are other similar stories over the past few months, and that no one has been successful looking into it. I wish to investigate myself, but I'm well aware that I can not handle a pack of werewolves on my own. I also heard that your alliance might be attempting to investigate, and wondered if I might be able to offer my own assistance.
Juniper's growl and description of preferred somewhat-solitary life together make Emma fear she may have offended the Elf, or at least crossed some line. She decides to be more careful.
Emma has always had just a few good friends, rather than befriend every person she meets, even though she was always kind, or at least tried to be. It didn't really bother her as long as she had tgose few good friends. But now, she practically cut ties with everyone, and she felt lonely. Even if she believed she desrved it, subconsciously, she wanted a friend, and it just happened that Juniper was of the first few people she met, so without realising it, she tried to befriend her, but didn't really know how.
"The woods. Do you have a house there, or do you just..." Elves were strange, she knew, but as an innkeeper, the concept was unimaginable. "Umm, no. I just happen to overhear she needed someone to take care of this matter for her, and I needed a few coins, so I volunteered. I am a... used to be a cook, an innkeeper." Emma places her hand over her frying pan in her belt as if to give proof, while taking the flower with her other hand. She brings it close to her nose to smell it, but then just keeps it in her hand, not sure what else to do with it.
The merchant looks over at what Vice holds in his hands, "Let's see. I can let that go for five silver pieces."
@Star(EMIW)
The boat makes it safely through the strong currents of the river. Whether the boat's safe passage was due to Hans's skill alone, or whether there was some divine guidance from the Cat Lord is uncertain.
@Kal(VanderLeigon)
Kal makes his way through Waterdeep to the North Ward. The North Ward is a Waterdeep district full of taverns, inns, and residencies. It is also home to two guild halls, two temples, and the main chapter house of the Lord's Alliance.
Once inside, Kal is led to a man who deals with new hires. The man listens to Kal's words before speaking.
"Yes, we are well aware of the werewolves of the Misty Woods. We have sent an operative of our own, Eravien Haund, to Daggerford. He has been based in Daggerford these last few months. He will be the Lords' Alliance operative with the most knowledge.
However, we have continued to receive reports from him. The latest brief informed us that Eravien successfully captured one of these werewolves. He also managed to interrogate the prisoner for information. The latest information is that these werewolves come from a distant land called Barovia. Eravien believes these werewolves come through some portal to arrive in Misty Woods. The werewolf pack reportedly has nearly a dozen members, the leader of which is a man called Kiril. Eravien also states that the captured werewolf often calls out to a Mother Night, which he believes is a deity that the werewolves worship.
If you wish to help the Lords' Alliance in these matters, then make your way to Daggerford and find Eravien Haund.
@Emma(FireCat5) and @Juniper(DandDSince1973)
As you continue to talk, Stanimir picks up a torch. He pours some of a bottle's contents onto the old rag wrapped around the end of the torch. He then mutters something under his breath, and the torch is suddenly alight. He then takes a swig from the bottle before spitting the contents through the torches flame and lighting the bonfire.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“The secret we should never let the gamemasters know is that they don't need any rules.” ― Gary Gygax
Juniper offers to adorn Emma’s hair with the magnolia, or, if it seems she doesn’t really want it, will, without pique, replace it over her own ear. She tells Emma that, recently, she has slept mostly out-of-doors. She was able to cause a sturdy lean-to of vines to grow, packed some mud upon it, and voilá (whatever the elvish word for voilá might be), a safe port, should a storm come. But the recent stop on Gillian’s Hill is really a short-term thing over the course of travels she’s undertaken recently. By recently she seems to mean, over the last decade. She shows interest in Emma’s prior job at an inn and wonders if she might have stayed there at some point, in her parents’ care, although it would have been when Emma was very young, or before she was born. It seems Juniper is between 50-60 years old, Emma might conclude.
“But — forgive me, but… why is the town’s ruler asking you to deliver messages? No offense, but, doesn’t she have messengers and criers and civil servants?”
“Oh look,” she interjects, pointing to Stanimir’s fire-lighting trick. “Watch out for your whiskers!!,” she shouts to him, smiling and entertained, and offers an excited whoop if the fire picks up.
Emma allows Juniper to do as she pleases. Her hair is a bit dirty after a few days of sleeping outdoors, but as her hair is medium-length, it isn't too bad. Only under close inspection, one might notice, so Juniper at that moment probably will. Emma is fascinated by Juniper's tales of sleeping outside. Quite different from her short experience in the old bedroll she bought for a few coins off someone in Bowshot before leaving. "Cause vines to grow? How did you do that? Is that some sort of Elven magic?"
Emma tells Juniper what she wants to learn from her job as an innkeeper, though most of the time she'll derail to describing something related to food. How she'd cook for many guests at once, the menu, perhaps even things totally unrelated to the inn itself. She is quite passionate when it comes to food. Emma is quite shocked when the dots start connecting and she realises just about how old Juniper is. She assumed they were about the same age... Elves.
"She, ah..." Emma lowes her voice so only Juniper can hear her. "The Duchess had actually sent a few messengers already. She said they all came back... enchanted by the Vitsani, somehow. She didn't want to send any more of her men, apparently, which is why she needed a volunteer. That's what she told me. I also heard some of her men talking. They didn't want to deal with the Vitsani either. I guess I'm lucky they were planning to leave before dawn regardless."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Vice hums and leaves five silver pieces on the table. He leaves with the bone pipes, still playing with it, fingers touching the sound holes. He puts it near his lips and tries to play it, trying to think of the little music knowledge he still remembers from his old band days (which was not much to begin with).
Performance: 8
He wonders to another part of town, and his attention is drawn to the group of people shooting targets. He sidles over, approaches someone that's been watching. "Hey," He asks, tucks his hands in his pockets and nods towards the shooting group. "What's happening here?"
Once the river slowed, Star was able to unhook his claws from the wood of the boat.
"Is there any more of that on this river?" he asks Hans. "I think my heart was about to come out of my mouth. At least, something was..."
With his eyes now open, he is able to appreciate the landscape that surrounds them. Swaying grassland and distant hills to their right, forests to their left. The variety was wonderful. Back in Maztica the jungle was everything.
"Your land is beautiful," he says to Hans. "Your gods have blessed you much for you to travel it so."
(I'm happy to RP the whole trip downriver but if you need Star to catch up to the others at a specific point, please feel free to jump ahead, I won't be offended. I don't know what your plans are but do whatever you need to do.)
The fire continues to grow and expand throughout the gathered wood. The fire gives off a gentle warmth at this distance, but getting closer would mean the heat would be more intense.
Soon some of the older members of the Vistani grab musical instruments and start playing. Whilst younger Vistani find partners and begin dancing.
@Kal(VanderLeigion)
Kal makes his way back through Waterdeep to the southern gate. Once at the get, the guards let him through, and he begins the long journey to Daggerford. The trip will take a couple of days travelling at a usual place without overexerting himself to avoid collapsing once reaching Daggerford. However, the Trade Way is reasonably safe between Waterdeep and Daggerford.
@Vice(WhiteByakko)
When Vice attempts to blow on the bone pipes, it dawns on him that he is out of practice. He makes more of a racket than anything musical. The noise gets a few people to cover their ears with their hands as they give scornful looks and complain about the noise.
A nearby on-looker is about to give Vice an answer when the tip of a fire over the southern wall is spotted. Soon afterwards, this is joined by the sound of musical instruments being played. The music is much better than Vice's poor attempt and is coming from the other side of the wall.
The on-looker looks in the direction of the southern wall before returning his attention to Vice,
"Just a simple competition to see who is the better archer."
@Star(EMIW)
Hans shrugs his shoulders, "Someone's got to ferry the goods between the towns. It's not easy work, but it pays well. Or at least well enough.
But no, we should be fine for now."
As Star takes in the sights, he spots a fire rising up in the distance in the direction that they are heading in.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“The secret we should never let the gamemasters know is that they don't need any rules.” ― Gary Gygax
At Emma’s question, Juniper smiles mysteriously, but doesn’t offer a direct answer. Following her statement about the duchess, and the beginning of the music, she excuses herself to quickly check on Foxglove.
While doing so, she mentally kicks herself. ‘This is how you drive people away, by exaggerating the truth. You know you set up a trellis for the vines to grow on. Why did you say ‘I caused them,’?,’ shaking her head. But she quickly transitions to the duchess. Her instinct is that the town’s leader must be one of those miserable nobles who can’t stand seeing poor folk enjoying themselves more than her wealthy circle. Indeed she, Juniper, does feel enchanted, and decides to put off thinking more about the half-truth she told and to give in to the celebration. Bouncing on her toes to the music, she looks for Emma and pulls her into the dancing if she’ll allow (“C’mon!”), or joins the dancing herself if Emma already has, or if Emma demures.
Emma remains where she was, silently watching the dancers with a blank expression. She was neither a good dancer nor especially content with getting any closer to the scorching fire. If Juniper presses, Emma might join for a bit, but after a bit of awkwardness - most of it probably in Emma's mind alone - she'll excuse herself and go back to the same spot where she'll continue to silently watch the dancers.
A celebration without food was hardly a celebration, but Emma doesn't say that. Sure, there were the wine barrels, but Emma avoids drinking, and will politely refuse even if she's offered some of it. She has two reasons for refusing the wine, but she doesn't share them, nor mention having them. If anyone inquires why she doesn't drink, she'll just say she's not in the mood, or that she doesn't like wine - though it's easy to pick that she's lying. Any time, whatever excuse she thinks of first.
"Oh." Vice raised his eyebrows, surprised. But he'll definitely take it. "Sounds good." He's happy to get some free time, plus, he did work very hard. The ringmaster seems to be in a good mood, probably won't even mind if he comes back a little late. He leaves the horses, looking back to see them being led back into the tent. He hums while he strides into the fair crowd, browsing the various shops and activities that had been set up. He plans to wonder for a bit, then join Nicolai after the sun sets.
Kal nods slowly.
"I guess I'll be heading to Daggerford," he says. "But I certainly won't be able to stop a pack of werewolves on my own. Do you know of anyone currently looking into it, either here in Waterdeep or in Daggerford to whom I could offer my services or request assistance?
"An excellent choice," assures Star, plucking a few slow notes, his claws giving him a plectrum on each finger. "Here is one I have learned since arriving on your shores. It is the story of Galenia and Patrolio."
He sings the story of two young lovers, only children of rival families whose houses faced each other across the Neverwinter River in the heart of the city. Their love grew each time they met - in the market, in the theatre - though they knew they could never be together. Patrolio plans to escape with Galenia by boat in dead of night, rowing under her balcony from which she will drop into his arms. But he was overheard... Whether it was by a member of his own house or hers, Patrolio made his way out into the river, only to find that someone had drilled a hole into the bottom. As the boat sunk beneath the water, Galenia came onto her balcony to wait. She waited until sunrise, then, believing Patrolio had abandoned her, she threw herself into the river and drowned. It is said that their bones lie yards from each other, cruelly kept from being with their love, even in death.
Going to risk a performance roll, it could spoil the whole thing: 18
DM - Storm King's Thunder
DM - Torosevia (WIP homebrew world)
Kelytha Meliamne - Matti Silverstorm - Silver - Star-Setting-In-The-East - Tor Baltos
@Juniper(DandDSince1973) and @Emma(FireCat5)
The Vistani have continued to work on gathering wood for the fire. By now, the Vistani have built the fire to a considerable height. Once lit, the fire will be seen by those within the walls of Daggerford. This might grab the attention of Duchess Morwen but also those within a couple of miles of the camp. However, for the time being, it looks like the Vistani are not ready to light the fire.
However, with the help of a couple of the other men, Stanimir collects three barrels of wine from one of the wagons. They then position the barrels on the ground, with enough distance from the fire. Stanimir opens the first of the three barrels and fills up a goblet.
@Vice(WhiteByakko)
Vice wonders around the festival but doesn't find much worth buying. There are various places to buy the odd trinket. He finds a bright green feather for sale in one stall, a multicoloured stone disk, and a set of bone pipes. There is an ornate brooch of a dwarven design in another booth, a glass eye and an alabaster mask. However, all of these trinkets seem to fascinate the people of Daggerford.
However, in another part of Daggerford, Vice spots a few people taking turns shooting a bow at a target. Whilst, elsewhere, a group of people are running around kicking a ball. Yet, in another area, people roll a ball to knock down wooden objects.
@Kal(VanderLegion)
The barkeep thinks for a moment.
"I think a few people are trying to investigate the werewolf problem. However, they belong to different factions and would likely not work with those who don't swear allegiance to them.
The heads of the Order of the Gauntlet chapter house are here in Waterdeep. The Lord's Alliance also operates in Waterdeep.
On the other hand, you could head down to Daggerford and try and build a group of people who would be interested in helping out. Most able folks are willing to help out children."
@Star(EMIW)
Star's performance is very moving and captures Han's imagination. However, before he can offer thanks for the performance, the boat enters a rough section of the river.
"Hold on tight!" Hans warns over the sounds of the river. He skillfully steers the boat through the rapid water, instinctively knowing where each protruding rock is and how much to steer to safely navigate the boat.
“The secret we should never let the gamemasters know is that they don't need any rules.” ― Gary Gygax
"My family lives in Bowshot. It's a few days' walk away, to the south." She thinks for a moment, then adds: "Perhaps a little to the east, too. Southeast, then." Though, she doesn't remember meeting Juniper in the past. With that said, she had met many people of various types, and she doesn't remember most. The guests of an inn come and go. Besides, Elves could be much older than they seemed. This Elf could possibly be old enough to have seen her when she was a baby, though that sort of coincidence doesn't really happen in real life, right? "Oh, you have an... umm..." Emma gestures to point Juniper to the smudge, but perhaps she isn't clear enough. "May I?" She holds her hand out, suggesting to clean it off for her.
If Juniper does not agree for whatever reason, Emma will simply say: "On your nose." Perhaps it was what she should have said first, but sometimes the right word just eludes one when one needs it. If Juniper allows Emma to help her, she'll clean the pollen away, then naturally clean her finger on her overdress. She's so used to having an apron on that, when there is none, she forgets she can't wipe her hands on her clothes.
Either way, she will then ask Juniper: "How about you, your family? Are you from around this area?" Depending on Juniper, they might make a conversation, or not. Emma had built a habit of mostly answering questions, or asking the same questions one asked her. The innkeeper doesn't ask her guests questions. Either way, Emma would occasionally watch the growing pile of woods with some concern. How will the Duchess respond if she sees the fire? If she sends her men, Emma could tell them that the Vitsani promised to leave before dawn, as requested. The Duchess said she doesn't want any bloodshed, though.
Varielky
Juniper gives her full attention to Emma, and when the guilds woman offers to de-smudge her nose, the elf assents sheepishly, her dark sepia complexion just slightly reddening while her eyes cross watching Emma’s finger. Seeing the pollen come away, she growls, a sound just slightly more terrifying than an angry gerbil. “Thank you,” she offers, “that’s life in the woods in a nutshell. Life in all its splendor has a way of tagging along, and you’re never really clean. Me? I’ve been living these last few years on Gillian’s Hill, but mostly keeping to myself. I love people, but… I also love keeping my own company. I like to think. And, I make friends easily, so it never feels too lonely.” She was speaking in reference to the winged and four-footed variety of beings primarily, but had learned that most people did not quite understand, so left that part out.
“Have you long been in the duchess’ employ?,” she asks, while offering her last magnolia blossom to Emma (“Don’t worry, I can find more.”)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Vice’s attention is drawn to a set of bone pipes on the merchant’s table. He goes to pick it up, plays with it in his hands, the bone pipes clank against the gold ring he wears on his index finger. He thought it might make a fun gift for Apep. When he gets the merchant’s attention, he asks, “How much is this?”
All Star can do is cling on tightly, so tight he leaves gouges in the wood with his claws. Just when he had been starting to enjoy this trip as well. He can't bear to watch as Hans misses the river rocks by less than the width of his tail. He closes his eyes and prays to the Cat Lord for salvation from a wet, and no doubt painful, end at the bottom of the Delimbyr, and doesn't open them again until the river has calmed.
DM - Storm King's Thunder
DM - Torosevia (WIP homebrew world)
Kelytha Meliamne - Matti Silverstorm - Silver - Star-Setting-In-The-East - Tor Baltos
After pondering for a moment, Kal says, "I know the Lord's Alliance sometimes hires people to complete jobs for them that aren't already a member of the faction, so I believe I'll try to contact them first. If that doesn't pan out, I'll see what I can find in Daggerford."
"Thank you for the assistance and, especially, the information," Kal tells the barkeep, pressing a couple gold coins into the other man's hand. (I only have 5 atm, so we'll say I hand him 2 gold).
(Am I safe to assume I'd know somewhere I could go to contact the Lord's Alliance since I've been living in waterdeep? If not, I'll ask the barkeep before I leave, or can roll something if you want)
Assuming I manage to get there and can talk to someone about why I'm there:
"I just met a man who claims to have narrowly escaped from werewolves that killed his wife and, strangely, kidnapped his children," he explains. "I'm told that there are other similar stories over the past few months, and that no one has been successful looking into it. I wish to investigate myself, but I'm well aware that I can not handle a pack of werewolves on my own. I also heard that your alliance might be attempting to investigate, and wondered if I might be able to offer my own assistance.
Juniper's growl and description of preferred somewhat-solitary life together make Emma fear she may have offended the Elf, or at least crossed some line. She decides to be more careful.
Emma has always had just a few good friends, rather than befriend every person she meets, even though she was always kind, or at least tried to be. It didn't really bother her as long as she had tgose few good friends. But now, she practically cut ties with everyone, and she felt lonely. Even if she believed she desrved it, subconsciously, she wanted a friend, and it just happened that Juniper was of the first few people she met, so without realising it, she tried to befriend her, but didn't really know how.
"The woods. Do you have a house there, or do you just..." Elves were strange, she knew, but as an innkeeper, the concept was unimaginable. "Umm, no. I just happen to overhear she needed someone to take care of this matter for her, and I needed a few coins, so I volunteered. I am a... used to be a cook, an innkeeper." Emma places her hand over her frying pan in her belt as if to give proof, while taking the flower with her other hand. She brings it close to her nose to smell it, but then just keeps it in her hand, not sure what else to do with it.
Varielky
@Vice(WhiteByakko)
The merchant looks over at what Vice holds in his hands, "Let's see. I can let that go for five silver pieces."
@Star(EMIW)
The boat makes it safely through the strong currents of the river. Whether the boat's safe passage was due to Hans's skill alone, or whether there was some divine guidance from the Cat Lord is uncertain.
@Kal(VanderLeigon)
Kal makes his way through Waterdeep to the North Ward. The North Ward is a Waterdeep district full of taverns, inns, and residencies. It is also home to two guild halls, two temples, and the main chapter house of the Lord's Alliance.
Once inside, Kal is led to a man who deals with new hires. The man listens to Kal's words before speaking.
"Yes, we are well aware of the werewolves of the Misty Woods. We have sent an operative of our own, Eravien Haund, to Daggerford. He has been based in Daggerford these last few months. He will be the Lords' Alliance operative with the most knowledge.
However, we have continued to receive reports from him. The latest brief informed us that Eravien successfully captured one of these werewolves. He also managed to interrogate the prisoner for information. The latest information is that these werewolves come from a distant land called Barovia. Eravien believes these werewolves come through some portal to arrive in Misty Woods. The werewolf pack reportedly has nearly a dozen members, the leader of which is a man called Kiril. Eravien also states that the captured werewolf often calls out to a Mother Night, which he believes is a deity that the werewolves worship.
If you wish to help the Lords' Alliance in these matters, then make your way to Daggerford and find Eravien Haund.
@Emma(FireCat5) and @Juniper(DandDSince1973)
As you continue to talk, Stanimir picks up a torch. He pours some of a bottle's contents onto the old rag wrapped around the end of the torch. He then mutters something under his breath, and the torch is suddenly alight. He then takes a swig from the bottle before spitting the contents through the torches flame and lighting the bonfire.
“The secret we should never let the gamemasters know is that they don't need any rules.” ― Gary Gygax
Juniper offers to adorn Emma’s hair with the magnolia, or, if it seems she doesn’t really want it, will, without pique, replace it over her own ear. She tells Emma that, recently, she has slept mostly out-of-doors. She was able to cause a sturdy lean-to of vines to grow, packed some mud upon it, and voilá (whatever the elvish word for voilá might be), a safe port, should a storm come. But the recent stop on Gillian’s Hill is really a short-term thing over the course of travels she’s undertaken recently. By recently she seems to mean, over the last decade. She shows interest in Emma’s prior job at an inn and wonders if she might have stayed there at some point, in her parents’ care, although it would have been when Emma was very young, or before she was born. It seems Juniper is between 50-60 years old, Emma might conclude.
“But — forgive me, but… why is the town’s ruler asking you to deliver messages? No offense, but, doesn’t she have messengers and criers and civil servants?”
“Oh look,” she interjects, pointing to Stanimir’s fire-lighting trick. “Watch out for your whiskers!!,” she shouts to him, smiling and entertained, and offers an excited whoop if the fire picks up.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Emma allows Juniper to do as she pleases. Her hair is a bit dirty after a few days of sleeping outdoors, but as her hair is medium-length, it isn't too bad. Only under close inspection, one might notice, so Juniper at that moment probably will. Emma is fascinated by Juniper's tales of sleeping outside. Quite different from her short experience in the old bedroll she bought for a few coins off someone in Bowshot before leaving. "Cause vines to grow? How did you do that? Is that some sort of Elven magic?"
Emma tells Juniper what she wants to learn from her job as an innkeeper, though most of the time she'll derail to describing something related to food. How she'd cook for many guests at once, the menu, perhaps even things totally unrelated to the inn itself. She is quite passionate when it comes to food. Emma is quite shocked when the dots start connecting and she realises just about how old Juniper is. She assumed they were about the same age... Elves.
"She, ah..." Emma lowes her voice so only Juniper can hear her. "The Duchess had actually sent a few messengers already. She said they all came back... enchanted by the Vitsani, somehow. She didn't want to send any more of her men, apparently, which is why she needed a volunteer. That's what she told me. I also heard some of her men talking. They didn't want to deal with the Vitsani either. I guess I'm lucky they were planning to leave before dawn regardless."
Varielky
“Then that is what I’ll do,” Kal says. “Thank you.”
Kal will head to Daggerford and look for Eravien.
Vice hums and leaves five silver pieces on the table. He leaves with the bone pipes, still playing with it, fingers touching the sound holes. He puts it near his lips and tries to play it, trying to think of the little music knowledge he still remembers from his old band days (which was not much to begin with).
Performance: 8
He wonders to another part of town, and his attention is drawn to the group of people shooting targets. He sidles over, approaches someone that's been watching. "Hey," He asks, tucks his hands in his pockets and nods towards the shooting group. "What's happening here?"
Once the river slowed, Star was able to unhook his claws from the wood of the boat.
"Is there any more of that on this river?" he asks Hans. "I think my heart was about to come out of my mouth. At least, something was..."
With his eyes now open, he is able to appreciate the landscape that surrounds them. Swaying grassland and distant hills to their right, forests to their left. The variety was wonderful. Back in Maztica the jungle was everything.
"Your land is beautiful," he says to Hans. "Your gods have blessed you much for you to travel it so."
(I'm happy to RP the whole trip downriver but if you need Star to catch up to the others at a specific point, please feel free to jump ahead, I won't be offended. I don't know what your plans are but do whatever you need to do.)
DM - Storm King's Thunder
DM - Torosevia (WIP homebrew world)
Kelytha Meliamne - Matti Silverstorm - Silver - Star-Setting-In-The-East - Tor Baltos
@Juniper(DandDSince1973) and Emma(FireCat5)
The fire continues to grow and expand throughout the gathered wood. The fire gives off a gentle warmth at this distance, but getting closer would mean the heat would be more intense.
Soon some of the older members of the Vistani grab musical instruments and start playing. Whilst younger Vistani find partners and begin dancing.
@Kal(VanderLeigion)
Kal makes his way back through Waterdeep to the southern gate. Once at the get, the guards let him through, and he begins the long journey to Daggerford. The trip will take a couple of days travelling at a usual place without overexerting himself to avoid collapsing once reaching Daggerford. However, the Trade Way is reasonably safe between Waterdeep and Daggerford.
@Vice(WhiteByakko)
When Vice attempts to blow on the bone pipes, it dawns on him that he is out of practice. He makes more of a racket than anything musical. The noise gets a few people to cover their ears with their hands as they give scornful looks and complain about the noise.
A nearby on-looker is about to give Vice an answer when the tip of a fire over the southern wall is spotted. Soon afterwards, this is joined by the sound of musical instruments being played. The music is much better than Vice's poor attempt and is coming from the other side of the wall.
The on-looker looks in the direction of the southern wall before returning his attention to Vice,
"Just a simple competition to see who is the better archer."
@Star(EMIW)
Hans shrugs his shoulders, "Someone's got to ferry the goods between the towns. It's not easy work, but it pays well. Or at least well enough.
But no, we should be fine for now."
As Star takes in the sights, he spots a fire rising up in the distance in the direction that they are heading in.
“The secret we should never let the gamemasters know is that they don't need any rules.” ― Gary Gygax
"Are we at Dagger Ford already?" Star questions his captain. "I see smoke, and perhaps flame. Is this normal for this stretch of the river?"
Star peers ahead to try to make out more detail.
Perception: 10
DM - Storm King's Thunder
DM - Torosevia (WIP homebrew world)
Kelytha Meliamne - Matti Silverstorm - Silver - Star-Setting-In-The-East - Tor Baltos
At Emma’s question, Juniper smiles mysteriously, but doesn’t offer a direct answer. Following her statement about the duchess, and the beginning of the music, she excuses herself to quickly check on Foxglove.
While doing so, she mentally kicks herself. ‘This is how you drive people away, by exaggerating the truth. You know you set up a trellis for the vines to grow on. Why did you say ‘I caused them,’?,’ shaking her head. But she quickly transitions to the duchess. Her instinct is that the town’s leader must be one of those miserable nobles who can’t stand seeing poor folk enjoying themselves more than her wealthy circle. Indeed she, Juniper, does feel enchanted, and decides to put off thinking more about the half-truth she told and to give in to the celebration. Bouncing on her toes to the music, she looks for Emma and pulls her into the dancing if she’ll allow (“C’mon!”), or joins the dancing herself if Emma already has, or if Emma demures.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Emma remains where she was, silently watching the dancers with a blank expression. She was neither a good dancer nor especially content with getting any closer to the scorching fire. If Juniper presses, Emma might join for a bit, but after a bit of awkwardness - most of it probably in Emma's mind alone - she'll excuse herself and go back to the same spot where she'll continue to silently watch the dancers.
A celebration without food was hardly a celebration, but Emma doesn't say that. Sure, there were the wine barrels, but Emma avoids drinking, and will politely refuse even if she's offered some of it. She has two reasons for refusing the wine, but she doesn't share them, nor mention having them. If anyone inquires why she doesn't drink, she'll just say she's not in the mood, or that she doesn't like wine - though it's easy to pick that she's lying. Any time, whatever excuse she thinks of first.
Varielky