"I have no ability for seeung in the dark, nor does Mep... however we are used to dimly lit spaces. The lighting here is enough. We will however, be much more at ease with a clear sky over our heads."
"I have no ability for seeung in the dark, nor does Mep... however we are used to dimly lit spaces. The lighting here is enough. We will however, be much more at ease with a clear sky over our heads."
(Ooc: Mep is a red drake, and is constantly by Emel's side, or perched on her shoulder. At this point all of you have heard her speaking to Mep in Mep's language at various points during the meeting)
(Ooc: Mep is a red drake, and is constantly by Emel's side, or perched on her shoulder. At this point all of you have heard her speaking to Mep in Mep's language at various points during the meeting)
ooc: Drakes from the Drakewarden subclass have standard darkvision.
“Hard times make the young grow up early.” He said as if fearing his own words. Last thing Finndal wanted to think about know were kids. “You live here, fight here. You have already became an adult as far as I can see.”One particularly naïve and with much to learn about the true nature of war, but a proper adult nonetheless. “And your trick, well, is more than what I can do when it comes to magic.” He said turning to Ebril. A fact that in all fairness could hardly make for praise. “I am durable, but slow. Focusing on moving fast or in an area where changing marching order I am likely to slow anyone behind me but if we are entering battle it could be better to have me on the vanguard. I fight better close and personal and may hold damage from coming to you guys.”
It was almost funny. Before he would have fought better from range. Maybe someday it will make no difference, Finn said with the voice of his mind. Mind. If only it collaborated with him. If only he could do that again. Why did I lose it? He questioned but briefly, before turning his focus to their way. It was not the time to think about that. It wouldn’t be for a while.
"Wise words from a wise dwarf," Annoura said. And he was wise, if grown overly hard from the conflict he'd fought and the tragedies he'd endured. But who was to say how she'd be in a another 70 years. "I agree. You, and me, up front."
"While I prefer not to fight, I'm rather certain avoiding it completely is not going to be possible. Good to know that you two are capable combatants," Ebril says as he continues on their course along the river. "I do alright with my stick here," he adds, lifting up the wooden staff he carries and is using as a walking stick. While at first glance his garb looks rather simple, rather cursory inspection reveals the chain shirt he wears beneath. Combined with the small wooden shield and crossbow he carries, it would seem like he at least has the tools for a fight. He then glances over at Emel and Mep, "But it looks like you and I will have to help those two from a few steps behind. With my magic I can also use a little bit different sort of light to persuade those that speak in terms of force."
He takes a deep breath. "I dare say that Lady Fate has granted us a rather good team here. Now then, how much farther do you suppose it is?"
Your conversation continues as you exit the alley onto the path that runs along the river here. The buildings in this district are largely residential with scattered commercial blocks - away to your left, the west, you can hear the bustle of a busy shopping street. To the right of the path you can look down on the river. Wide and slow, it is almost 20 feet below the path on which you stand, leaving room for the swell that will inevitably come in the summer Months of Light and Glory, when the rains of the Queshi Forest turn the river into a dark and turbulent danger. For this same reason there are very few doors out onto the river path - why tempt the flood? So you make your way largely undisturbed northward into the South Griev district, save for a few occasional individuals rushing to their next location. No one is simply out for a walk.
South Griev is more industrial - warehouses and workshops line the river's edge, with cranes and pulleys built into the flood wall or the wharf, which the path has widened into, for lifting or lowering to and from boats. It is busier here, people pushing carts to and fro, carrying boxes, calling to each other, laughing heartily, or quietly focused on their work. None bother you or approach you - you are not important to them - though you raise a few eyebrows simply for the make-up of your group, not mention the little dragon curled around Emel's shoulders.
Over the roofs of nearby structures a larger building is visible, brick walls and shallow sloping roof almost unremarkable in their similarity to others along the wharf, but for the logo painted up high for all to see - a red letter M, with pointed peaks and central trough, and curling outward descenders. Between the spokes of the letter curls a fish, swimming from right to left.
Just at this moment though, you see a patrolling guard unit making their way southward on the wharf. Four in the standard chainmail and black pauldrons of the lowest rank, shortswords and crossbows hanging at their hips, one in black splint armour, hand resting on the pommel of a longsword. A Hand unit.
This is not a city street where many types of people roam - this is a working environment, and you are an odd looking collection. A decision must be made - continue onwards, and hope you can pass them unhassled, or try to hide between the buildings which press closely together? Or perhaps join in with the work, acting as if you belong there? These are just some ideas, you may have your own.
Just at this moment though, you see a patrolling guard unit making their way southward on the wharf. Four in the standard chainmail and black pauldrons of the lowest rank, shortswords and crossbows hanging at their hips, one in black splint armour, hand resting on the pommel of a longsword. A Hand unit.
A Hand unit is the Empire's most basic military unit, a squad of 4 soldiers led by a more experienced Sergeant. They are the most common formation of guards you will see around the Empire, and in Quesada especially, being the official seat of power of the Estellon dynasty. They are intended to represent the Hand of Bane amongst society.
ooc: Are there any side streets we could turn down? What sort of work is being done? Are there any work parties nearby? What about doors? Stores? Shops? Anything like that?
You are just approaching a narrow side street between buildings. Past it there are two buildings between you and the warehouse. The soldiers are currently moving past the furthest of the two.
Large double doors are open in the building in front of you and the one behind you. In front of you workers are moving in and out, carrying crates to a pallet, next to which sits coiled ropes. Presumably once the pallet is full the crates will be tied down. It isn't immediately obvious what is in the crates. Behind you workers are accepting barrels from a docked ship - the barrels are being removed from the ship by a crane, then taken indoors on two-wheeled, handheld trolleys. Similar types of work is being done all along the wharf, with varying levels of energy.
There are no shops/stores on this side of the buildings, which seems to be purely for the industry side of things. Perhaps if you went around to the front there would be a shop front.
"This is not the time for a confrontation," Annoura says softly. Then she nods at the narrow alley. "I think that way will get us to the offices," she says in a normal tone of voice. She does not look at the Hand.
"That seems exactly the way to go," Ebril says in response to Annoura's comment. He keeps a steady pace as he makes for the narrow alley to head down it.
The presence of the guards was hard to notice, just as like as that of their little group, Findal realized. They were an eclectic bunch with an uncommon reptile by their side. They could disappear into an alley, try to outrun the patrol. But retreating was sure make the Hand suspicious enough to give pursue. Were that to happen the five could call reinforcements, bring more attention to them. Unless we ambush them. No. Imperials often fight to death and the bodies of five men at arms would bring questions. Before long their peculiar association would be mentioned and sought. Out of the desire to use them as scapegoats if not out of suspicion. Disguise it is. Should we pose as clients? The dwarf pondered looking at the closest business. His companions answered with a better option.
“Well, I couldn’t very well refuse a challenge for a drinking contest.” He said following the group. “And you won some by betting on me, right? So no complaining.”
At the end of his speech, Finn feigned a burp. Even in Orquesh his kind was known to be heavy drinkers and easy coin could enough reason for anyone to get late at work. At least he hoped the patrol by the street would think as much.
Ducking into the narrow road between the buildings you move down a little way, then listen out for the soldiers. You hear the sound of their heavy boots pass by, and their silhouette briefly fills the view onto the wharf. For a second the atmosphere is tense, what if they look? What if this is on their route!
But they pass by, continuing down the wharf. You can breathe a sigh of relief.
Do you try to find your way to your destination further down this alley, or back out onto the wharf?
"Yes, definitely this is the right way," Ebril says as he keeps going down the narrow road. "We'll see the place better from the front." Although the guards had passed, it just seemed better to not draw too much attention by backtracking. And better to keep the conversation vague, as you never knew who might be listening.
Annoura nods, "Yep, I see it now," she says and moves out a little in front as they approach the end of the alley, ready for anything in this oppressed city.
"Liiq ep iai uyv gus yt." Emel says to Mepvisp, the drake nuzzling against her for a moment before taking to the sky. "I've told Mep to be our eye in the sky for a bit, so we don't get caught off guard like that again"
(Can mep warn us if we're about to run into soldiers on patrol?)
"I have no ability for seeung in the dark, nor does Mep... however we are used to dimly lit spaces. The lighting here is enough. We will however, be much more at ease with a clear sky over our heads."
ooc: what species is Mep?
Tandor the White, Human Life Cleric
(Ooc: Mep is a red drake, and is constantly by Emel's side, or perched on her shoulder. At this point all of you have heard her speaking to Mep in Mep's language at various points during the meeting)
ooc: Drakes from the Drakewarden subclass have standard darkvision.
Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 12
Tandor the White, Human Life Cleric
“Hard times make the young grow up early.” He said as if fearing his own words. Last thing Finndal wanted to think about know were kids. “You live here, fight here. You have already became an adult as far as I can see.” One particularly naïve and with much to learn about the true nature of war, but a proper adult nonetheless. “And your trick, well, is more than what I can do when it comes to magic.” He said turning to Ebril. A fact that in all fairness could hardly make for praise. “I am durable, but slow. Focusing on moving fast or in an area where changing marching order I am likely to slow anyone behind me but if we are entering battle it could be better to have me on the vanguard. I fight better close and personal and may hold damage from coming to you guys.”
It was almost funny. Before he would have fought better from range. Maybe someday it will make no difference, Finn said with the voice of his mind. Mind. If only it collaborated with him. If only he could do that again. Why did I lose it? He questioned but briefly, before turning his focus to their way. It was not the time to think about that. It wouldn’t be for a while.
"Wise words from a wise dwarf," Annoura said. And he was wise, if grown overly hard from the conflict he'd fought and the tragedies he'd endured. But who was to say how she'd be in a another 70 years. "I agree. You, and me, up front."
Tandor the White, Human Life Cleric
"While I prefer not to fight, I'm rather certain avoiding it completely is not going to be possible. Good to know that you two are capable combatants," Ebril says as he continues on their course along the river. "I do alright with my stick here," he adds, lifting up the wooden staff he carries and is using as a walking stick. While at first glance his garb looks rather simple, rather cursory inspection reveals the chain shirt he wears beneath. Combined with the small wooden shield and crossbow he carries, it would seem like he at least has the tools for a fight. He then glances over at Emel and Mep, "But it looks like you and I will have to help those two from a few steps behind. With my magic I can also use a little bit different sort of light to persuade those that speak in terms of force."
He takes a deep breath. "I dare say that Lady Fate has granted us a rather good team here. Now then, how much farther do you suppose it is?"
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Your conversation continues as you exit the alley onto the path that runs along the river here. The buildings in this district are largely residential with scattered commercial blocks - away to your left, the west, you can hear the bustle of a busy shopping street. To the right of the path you can look down on the river. Wide and slow, it is almost 20 feet below the path on which you stand, leaving room for the swell that will inevitably come in the summer Months of Light and Glory, when the rains of the Queshi Forest turn the river into a dark and turbulent danger. For this same reason there are very few doors out onto the river path - why tempt the flood? So you make your way largely undisturbed northward into the South Griev district, save for a few occasional individuals rushing to their next location. No one is simply out for a walk.
South Griev is more industrial - warehouses and workshops line the river's edge, with cranes and pulleys built into the flood wall or the wharf, which the path has widened into, for lifting or lowering to and from boats. It is busier here, people pushing carts to and fro, carrying boxes, calling to each other, laughing heartily, or quietly focused on their work. None bother you or approach you - you are not important to them - though you raise a few eyebrows simply for the make-up of your group, not mention the little dragon curled around Emel's shoulders.
Over the roofs of nearby structures a larger building is visible, brick walls and shallow sloping roof almost unremarkable in their similarity to others along the wharf, but for the logo painted up high for all to see - a red letter M, with pointed peaks and central trough, and curling outward descenders. Between the spokes of the letter curls a fish, swimming from right to left.
Just at this moment though, you see a patrolling guard unit making their way southward on the wharf. Four in the standard chainmail and black pauldrons of the lowest rank, shortswords and crossbows hanging at their hips, one in black splint armour, hand resting on the pommel of a longsword. A Hand unit.
This is not a city street where many types of people roam - this is a working environment, and you are an odd looking collection. A decision must be made - continue onwards, and hope you can pass them unhassled, or try to hide between the buildings which press closely together? Or perhaps join in with the work, acting as if you belong there? These are just some ideas, you may have your own.
DM - Storm King's Thunder
DM - Torosevia (WIP homebrew world)
Kelytha Meliamne - Matti Silverstorm - Silver - Star-Setting-In-The-East - Tor Baltos
ooc: What does it mean to be a Hand unit?
Tandor the White, Human Life Cleric
A Hand unit is the Empire's most basic military unit, a squad of 4 soldiers led by a more experienced Sergeant. They are the most common formation of guards you will see around the Empire, and in Quesada especially, being the official seat of power of the Estellon dynasty. They are intended to represent the Hand of Bane amongst society.
DM - Storm King's Thunder
DM - Torosevia (WIP homebrew world)
Kelytha Meliamne - Matti Silverstorm - Silver - Star-Setting-In-The-East - Tor Baltos
ooc: Are there any side streets we could turn down? What sort of work is being done? Are there any work parties nearby? What about doors? Stores? Shops? Anything like that?
Tandor the White, Human Life Cleric
You are just approaching a narrow side street between buildings. Past it there are two buildings between you and the warehouse. The soldiers are currently moving past the furthest of the two.
Large double doors are open in the building in front of you and the one behind you. In front of you workers are moving in and out, carrying crates to a pallet, next to which sits coiled ropes. Presumably once the pallet is full the crates will be tied down. It isn't immediately obvious what is in the crates. Behind you workers are accepting barrels from a docked ship - the barrels are being removed from the ship by a crane, then taken indoors on two-wheeled, handheld trolleys. Similar types of work is being done all along the wharf, with varying levels of energy.
There are no shops/stores on this side of the buildings, which seems to be purely for the industry side of things. Perhaps if you went around to the front there would be a shop front.
DM - Storm King's Thunder
DM - Torosevia (WIP homebrew world)
Kelytha Meliamne - Matti Silverstorm - Silver - Star-Setting-In-The-East - Tor Baltos
"This is not the time for a confrontation," Annoura says softly. Then she nods at the narrow alley. "I think that way will get us to the offices," she says in a normal tone of voice. She does not look at the Hand.
Tandor the White, Human Life Cleric
Emel nods in agreement. "We should hurry, the boss gets angry when we're late." She says, playing along with Annoura
"That seems exactly the way to go," Ebril says in response to Annoura's comment. He keeps a steady pace as he makes for the narrow alley to head down it.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
The presence of the guards was hard to notice, just as like as that of their little group, Findal realized. They were an eclectic bunch with an uncommon reptile by their side. They could disappear into an alley, try to outrun the patrol. But retreating was sure make the Hand suspicious enough to give pursue. Were that to happen the five could call reinforcements, bring more attention to them. Unless we ambush them. No. Imperials often fight to death and the bodies of five men at arms would bring questions. Before long their peculiar association would be mentioned and sought. Out of the desire to use them as scapegoats if not out of suspicion. Disguise it is. Should we pose as clients? The dwarf pondered looking at the closest business. His companions answered with a better option.
“Well, I couldn’t very well refuse a challenge for a drinking contest.” He said following the group. “And you won some by betting on me, right? So no complaining.”
At the end of his speech, Finn feigned a burp. Even in Orquesh his kind was known to be heavy drinkers and easy coin could enough reason for anyone to get late at work. At least he hoped the patrol by the street would think as much.
Ducking into the narrow road between the buildings you move down a little way, then listen out for the soldiers. You hear the sound of their heavy boots pass by, and their silhouette briefly fills the view onto the wharf. For a second the atmosphere is tense, what if they look? What if this is on their route!
But they pass by, continuing down the wharf. You can breathe a sigh of relief.
Do you try to find your way to your destination further down this alley, or back out onto the wharf?
DM - Storm King's Thunder
DM - Torosevia (WIP homebrew world)
Kelytha Meliamne - Matti Silverstorm - Silver - Star-Setting-In-The-East - Tor Baltos
"Yes, definitely this is the right way," Ebril says as he keeps going down the narrow road. "We'll see the place better from the front." Although the guards had passed, it just seemed better to not draw too much attention by backtracking. And better to keep the conversation vague, as you never knew who might be listening.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Annoura nods, "Yep, I see it now," she says and moves out a little in front as they approach the end of the alley, ready for anything in this oppressed city.
Tandor the White, Human Life Cleric
"Liiq ep iai uyv gus yt." Emel says to Mepvisp, the drake nuzzling against her for a moment before taking to the sky. "I've told Mep to be our eye in the sky for a bit, so we don't get caught off guard like that again"
(Can mep warn us if we're about to run into soldiers on patrol?)