Lan exhales—a slow, measured breath that carries a thrum of disappointment—then lets his gaze rest on the tavern door as if patience alone could draw the one he seeks across its threshold. Stone‑whorl tilts in the crook of his elbow, the faint click of its carved ridges marking the passage of a silent heartbeat.
His eyes shift to Zheng, amber embers meeting the man’s for a heartbeat: a quiet acknowledgment of shared curiosity, perhaps invitation, perhaps caution. Fingers curl around the tankard’s hoop‑iron, and he turns half a step toward the stool he first occupied, though he holds his ground for now—listening, watching, allowing the room to settle before he re‑claims his solitary post by the hearth.
Ji-Ha will approach the dwarf cautiously after holding their gaze for several seconds "May I help you? I'm not a staff member, but I've been here long enough to remember a few names of the regulars."
(OOC: At this point in the day, and really anytime she's just staying in the inn, should that count as a Short Rest, she'll have Mage Armorup, given its 8-Hour duration.)
“Thank you friend, the name is Zheng. You really helped me there.”
When the bartender offers the drink Zheng gives a nod and raises the glass.
“May your bar remain as happy as it feels right now. Thank you for your kind gesture.”
Turning back to Lan as a new person joins them.
“It seems your quick thinking has made you the hero of this day. I must admit that it is a curiosity to meet someone searching for what almost sounds like a ghost. If you are willing to have company I would love to hear your story.”
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
A short girl walks in. Human level short, (4'10 1/2" and proud of that half inch) she isnt a hobbit. She looks around and settles in an unoccupied table, listening to the sounds at the bar.
Chi ordered a bowl of soup and looked around the bar.She thought of her 20 years as she waited.When her sorcerous powers emerged, her parents were terrified.How could she control it?What if the government killed the whole family.So she left.And was taken in by the criminal underworld, who didn’t care about the laws anyway.But all things must end & so she had to flee because the guild had gotten too successful.The government started cracking down.
Which is how she came to be in this bar, listening to conversations.Would she find a mark to pilfer?Or would she find an adventuring group to hang with?They were ideal for traveling incognito.
Perception: 16 to hear conversations
(Sorry for the late start.Hope I got her in before the deadline. If Xi is too close to Xie, I can change it)
Lan dips his head to Zheng, hand pressed briefly to his own heart. “Your courtesy honours me, friend Zheng, but any soul with steady breath could have cooled that blaze.” The dwarf’s mouth lifts in a faint, apologetic curve before settling back into its usual calm line. “I am called Lan Shi, pilgrim‑healer by trade—more familiar with poultices than heroics.”
Turning to Ji‑Ha, he offers the same small bow of greeting. “Your memory may serve me better than my patience. I wait for a performer whose tricks ride on river‑mist—subtle, fleeting, perhaps little more than a rumour given form.” His gaze moves between the two newcomers, amber eyes quietly intent. “Have either of you seen such an entertainer pass this threshold in recent nights, or heard talk of where one might next appear?”
Ji-Ha will approach the dwarf cautiously after holding their gaze for several seconds "May I help you? I'm not a staff member, but I've been here long enough to remember a few names of the regulars."
(OOC: At this point in the day, and really anytime she's just staying in the inn, should that count as a Short Rest, she'll have Mage Armorup, given its 8-Hour duration.)
“Thank you friend, the name is Zheng. You really helped me there.”
When the bartender offers the drink Zheng gives a nod and raises the glass.
“May your bar remain as happy as it feels right now. Thank you for your kind gesture.”
Turning back to Lan as a new person joins them.
“It seems your quick thinking has made you the hero of this day. I must admit that it is a curiosity to meet someone searching for what almost sounds like a ghost. If you are willing to have company I would love to hear your story.”
Lan dips his head to Zheng, hand pressed briefly to his own heart. “Your courtesy honours me, friend Zheng, but any soul with steady breath could have cooled that blaze.” The dwarf’s mouth lifts in a faint, apologetic curve before settling back into its usual calm line. “I am called Lan Shi, pilgrim‑healer by trade—more familiar with poultices than heroics.”
Turning to Ji‑Ha, he offers the same small bow of greeting. “Your memory may serve me better than my patience. I wait for a performer whose tricks ride on river‑mist—subtle, fleeting, perhaps little more than a rumour given form.” His gaze moves between the two newcomers, amber eyes quietly intent. “Have either of you seen such an entertainer pass this threshold in recent nights, or heard talk of where one might next appear?”
(OOC: Anyone who wants to see if they can recall anything (Zheng/Ji-Ha), roll either Arcana or History.)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Religious frisbee player, writer, goofball, and nerd. Some may say professional for the latter two.
Extended sig here. Send me a PM if you want to chat.
During your time in the city, you have heard tell of many magicians who operate secretly outside the law. And Lan's description of a river-mist magician does fit the description of one you've heard of. A man, who lives outside the city in a small village on the banks of the Anyang River, has been said to work river and dragon magic that was long ago abandoned by most.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Religious frisbee player, writer, goofball, and nerd. Some may say professional for the latter two.
Extended sig here. Send me a PM if you want to chat.
“It seems the Gods have blessed me with the knowledge to properly thank you for your previous act. In my time searching for answers to questions about the cosmos I heard about someone that fits your description. That man lives outside the city in a small village on the banks of the Anyang River.”
Lan’s features still as though caught in sudden torch‑glare; for a breath he seems carved from the same granite hue as his skin. A village on the Anyang—so clear, so near. “The river‑dragon’s currents wind where no map dares,” he murmurs, voice half to himself, half to whatever listening spirits guide such accidents. An ironic thought flickers: should he chase down the drunkard and pledge thanks for driving him into Zheng’s path? The notion ebbs with the next heartbeat; fate has already paid its due.
He clasps Zheng’s forearm in firm gratitude, the warmth of skin grounding the moment. “Your gift of direction outweighs any tankard, friend. If our mist‑step magician bypasses this door tonight, I will follow the river’s bend at first light and see whether daylight coaxes him to perform.” Stone‑whorl shifts across his back as he turns a thoughtful eye to the tavern entrance once more, content now to wait—but no longer worried that the trail ends at a silent hinge.
A short girl walks in. Human level short, (4'10 1/2" and proud of that half inch) she isnt a hobbit. She looks around and settles in an unoccupied table, listening to the sounds at the bar.
Chi ordered a bowl of soup and looked around the bar.She thought of her 20 years as she waited.When her sorcerous powers emerged, her parents were terrified.How could she control it?What if the government killed the whole family.So she left.And was taken in by the criminal underworld, who didn’t care about the laws anyway.But all things must end & so she had to flee because the guild had gotten too successful.The government started cracking down.
Which is how she came to be in this bar, listening to conversations.Would she find a mark to pilfer?Or would she find an adventuring group to hang with?They were ideal for traveling incognito.
Perception: 5 to hear conversations
(Sorry for the late start.Hope I got her in before the deadline. If Xi is too close to Xie, I can change it)
(OOC: Name's fine.)
Xi is a late arrival to the tavern - slipping in just as the drunk man finishes. Ordering a drink and sitting in a corner, Xi finds it difficult to concentrate and spy on conversations - throughout the ebb and flow of the tavern, loud voices clamor out quieter ones. People keep their valuables secure, clasping hands around pockets and jewelry (for those who have them) as if they were the only remnants of happier times.
Lan’s features still as though caught in sudden torch‑glare; for a breath he seems carved from the same granite hue as his skin. A village on the Anyang—so clear, so near. “The river‑dragon’s currents wind where no map dares,” he murmurs, voice half to himself, half to whatever listening spirits guide such accidents. An ironic thought flickers: should he chase down the drunkard and pledge thanks for driving him into Zheng’s path? The notion ebbs with the next heartbeat; fate has already paid its due.
He clasps Zheng’s forearm in firm gratitude, the warmth of skin grounding the moment. “Your gift of direction outweighs any tankard, friend. If our mist‑step magician bypasses this door tonight, I will follow the river’s bend at first light and see whether daylight coaxes him to perform.” Stone‑whorl shifts across his back as he turns a thoughtful eye to the tavern entrance once more, content now to wait—but no longer worried that the trail ends at a silent hinge.
The night continues, and the patrons slowly begin to file out of the tavern. Few remain, and you have little hope that the magician will grace this tavern tonight. Around midnight, as the moon shines beautifully over the Taiyang mountains out the window, the bartender comes back over to your table, with a frown marking his brow by now. "I'm afraid you'll either have to take a room or leave," he says. "We have to close up for the night."
Heng continues on past the board, and gets another ale. He sits at a table closer to the board this time, and waits until the man who nailed the paper offering mercenary work leaves. He then gets up and heads on past the board again. This time, he yawns and stretches his hands as he's next to it, and quickly pulls the paper off and hides it in his pocket. (Sleight of Hand: 10, oof I guess someone probably noticed)
He makes his way to the bartender, and says: "I'll take a room, thanks." He then sits next to the pair that dealt with the loud drunk, and butts in on their conversation: "Hi. I enjoyed that little show you held earlier. Not many bother dealing with issues like that these days. I'm Heng, and I have a job for you if you're interested." As he finishes speaking, he takes the paper out of his pocket, and smooths it out on the table.
Paper says: Mercenaries Wanted - The Bazaar, two days from now
(OOC: That happened quickly. Going to add a few things Zheng would have done before closing. After the interaction with Lan, Zheng would have offered to sit at a table with him and invited the other two individuals. Zheng is a Cleric of the Sun and has been looking for a reason that his life was spared. Zheng feels like this was meant to happen and wishes to see where this path leads. Zheng would have been open about all of this if asked and will reluctantly admit to being able to use holy magic. Assuming Lan gets a room Zheng will also get a room.)
After Heng finishes introducing himself and Zheng has a chance to look over the paper.
“Well met Heng, my name is Zheng. It seems like there is not much information attached to that paper.”
As a calligraphy expert Zheng will look at the paper and see if he can gleam any information from it.
Lan inclines his head to the halfling barkeep. “A room, then—and plain straw ticks are comfort enough,” he says, patting the worn purse at his belt. Turning to Zheng and Heng, he adds with a rueful half-smile, “My coffers are leaner than my appetite for roads. If either of you would share the space—and the fee—I’d call it a kindness.”
His gaze lingers on the mercenary notice smoothed beneath Heng’s hand, then drifts to the dark window where moonlight sketches the distant river’s course. “At first light I mean to follow that bend of the Anyang and sniff out our elusive mist-performer in the village yonder. Should the trail dry up, I’ll be back by sundown. A purse earned at the Bazaar the next day would keep my satchel stocked with salves and supper both.” He raises his tankard in quiet toast. “If your paths run the same way, I’ll welcome the company—and whatever honest coin fate cares to scatter.”
Heng nods to Zheng's observation, and explains: "The details of mercenary work is usually best discussed in person. After all, if you are hunting a criminal, you don't want them able to read from the tavern wall that they are being hunted. And if you are to protect the travels of someone of import, you don't want to announce to all bandits that they are traveling." As for Lan, he promises: "Sure, I can share a room. Paying a couple more coins won't hurt me when you are helping me get a bunch more. And I'm free tomorrow, I can keep you company on your search."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Given that Zheng mostly handled the situation on his own, Ji-Ha would have just observed them converse. She rolls a 18 Arcana, but won't chip in regardless of the result.
(OOC: Arthuropodd it looks like you have not joined the campaign yet. Post #29 has the link if you want to add your character.)
Zheng stands up quickly, finishing his ale and slamming it onto the table(not too hard). Looking around the mostly empty bar, Zheng laughs with excitement.
“Heng, your reasoning is truly perfect! I will happily pay for your rooms for the night. Tonight we rest and tomorrow we start the hunt for mist man! Then we will have a job for the next day to recoup any funds we have lost! I need not sleep but it is far more comfortable spending time in a room rather than outdoors.”
Zheng will pay for the rooms and head to them(assuming each room has two beds and Zheng does not sleep we should only need 2 rooms?)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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Lan exhales—a slow, measured breath that carries a thrum of disappointment—then lets his gaze rest on the tavern door as if patience alone could draw the one he seeks across its threshold. Stone‑whorl tilts in the crook of his elbow, the faint click of its carved ridges marking the passage of a silent heartbeat.
His eyes shift to Zheng, amber embers meeting the man’s for a heartbeat: a quiet acknowledgment of shared curiosity, perhaps invitation, perhaps caution. Fingers curl around the tankard’s hoop‑iron, and he turns half a step toward the stool he first occupied, though he holds his ground for now—listening, watching, allowing the room to settle before he re‑claims his solitary post by the hearth.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
Ji-Ha will approach the dwarf cautiously after holding their gaze for several seconds "May I help you? I'm not a staff member, but I've been here long enough to remember a few names of the regulars."
(OOC: At this point in the day, and really anytime she's just staying in the inn, should that count as a Short Rest, she'll have Mage Armor up, given its 8-Hour duration.)
THE SANDERMAN MENTIONED
Zheng puts a hand on Lan’s shoulder.
“Thank you friend, the name is Zheng. You really helped me there.”
When the bartender offers the drink Zheng gives a nod and raises the glass.
“May your bar remain as happy as it feels right now. Thank you for your kind gesture.”
Turning back to Lan as a new person joins them.
“It seems your quick thinking has made you the hero of this day. I must admit that it is a curiosity to meet someone searching for what almost sounds like a ghost. If you are willing to have company I would love to hear your story.”
A short girl walks in. Human level short, (4'10 1/2" and proud of that half inch) she isnt a hobbit. She looks around and settles in an unoccupied table, listening to the sounds at the bar.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sheet-pdfs/arthuropodd_145931828.pdf
Name: Xi Lin Chi
Class: Sorceress (Draconic)
Species: Human
Chi ordered a bowl of soup and looked around the bar. She thought of her 20 years as she waited. When her sorcerous powers emerged, her parents were terrified. How could she control it? What if the government killed the whole family. So she left. And was taken in by the criminal underworld, who didn’t care about the laws anyway. But all things must end & so she had to flee because the guild had gotten too successful. The government started cracking down.
Which is how she came to be in this bar, listening to conversations. Would she find a mark to pilfer? Or would she find an adventuring group to hang with? They were ideal for traveling incognito.
Perception: 16 to hear conversations
(Sorry for the late start. Hope I got her in before the deadline. If Xi is too close to Xie, I can change it)
https://freeimage.host/i/3OUhgig
Lan dips his head to Zheng, hand pressed briefly to his own heart. “Your courtesy honours me, friend Zheng, but any soul with steady breath could have cooled that blaze.” The dwarf’s mouth lifts in a faint, apologetic curve before settling back into its usual calm line. “I am called Lan Shi, pilgrim‑healer by trade—more familiar with poultices than heroics.”
Turning to Ji‑Ha, he offers the same small bow of greeting. “Your memory may serve me better than my patience. I wait for a performer whose tricks ride on river‑mist—subtle, fleeting, perhaps little more than a rumour given form.” His gaze moves between the two newcomers, amber eyes quietly intent. “Have either of you seen such an entertainer pass this threshold in recent nights, or heard talk of where one might next appear?”
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
(OOC: Got it)
(OOC: Anyone who wants to see if they can recall anything (Zheng/Ji-Ha), roll either Arcana or History.)
Religious frisbee player, writer, goofball, and nerd. Some may say professional for the latter two.
Extended sig here. Send me a PM if you want to chat.
DM: Westeros - A Homebrew D&D Campaign, Liquid Swords - A Historical Wuxia Campaign
Player: Marcus Aquillus Arcade (Quil) - 1st Rogue - Pax Romana
(OOC: Zheng rolled Arcana: 20)
Zheng:
During your time in the city, you have heard tell of many magicians who operate secretly outside the law. And Lan's description of a river-mist magician does fit the description of one you've heard of. A man, who lives outside the city in a small village on the banks of the Anyang River, has been said to work river and dragon magic that was long ago abandoned by most.
Religious frisbee player, writer, goofball, and nerd. Some may say professional for the latter two.
Extended sig here. Send me a PM if you want to chat.
DM: Westeros - A Homebrew D&D Campaign, Liquid Swords - A Historical Wuxia Campaign
Player: Marcus Aquillus Arcade (Quil) - 1st Rogue - Pax Romana
Zheng gets a slight smile on his face.
“It seems the Gods have blessed me with the knowledge to properly thank you for your previous act. In my time searching for answers to questions about the cosmos I heard about someone that fits your description. That man lives outside the city in a small village on the banks of the Anyang River.”
Lan’s features still as though caught in sudden torch‑glare; for a breath he seems carved from the same granite hue as his skin. A village on the Anyang—so clear, so near. “The river‑dragon’s currents wind where no map dares,” he murmurs, voice half to himself, half to whatever listening spirits guide such accidents. An ironic thought flickers: should he chase down the drunkard and pledge thanks for driving him into Zheng’s path? The notion ebbs with the next heartbeat; fate has already paid its due.
He clasps Zheng’s forearm in firm gratitude, the warmth of skin grounding the moment. “Your gift of direction outweighs any tankard, friend. If our mist‑step magician bypasses this door tonight, I will follow the river’s bend at first light and see whether daylight coaxes him to perform.” Stone‑whorl shifts across his back as he turns a thoughtful eye to the tavern entrance once more, content now to wait—but no longer worried that the trail ends at a silent hinge.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
(OOC: Name's fine.)
Xi is a late arrival to the tavern - slipping in just as the drunk man finishes. Ordering a drink and sitting in a corner, Xi finds it difficult to concentrate and spy on conversations - throughout the ebb and flow of the tavern, loud voices clamor out quieter ones. People keep their valuables secure, clasping hands around pockets and jewelry (for those who have them) as if they were the only remnants of happier times.
The night continues, and the patrons slowly begin to file out of the tavern. Few remain, and you have little hope that the magician will grace this tavern tonight. Around midnight, as the moon shines beautifully over the Taiyang mountains out the window, the bartender comes back over to your table, with a frown marking his brow by now. "I'm afraid you'll either have to take a room or leave," he says. "We have to close up for the night."
Religious frisbee player, writer, goofball, and nerd. Some may say professional for the latter two.
Extended sig here. Send me a PM if you want to chat.
DM: Westeros - A Homebrew D&D Campaign, Liquid Swords - A Historical Wuxia Campaign
Player: Marcus Aquillus Arcade (Quil) - 1st Rogue - Pax Romana
Heng continues on past the board, and gets another ale. He sits at a table closer to the board this time, and waits until the man who nailed the paper offering mercenary work leaves. He then gets up and heads on past the board again. This time, he yawns and stretches his hands as he's next to it, and quickly pulls the paper off and hides it in his pocket. (Sleight of Hand: 10, oof I guess someone probably noticed)
He makes his way to the bartender, and says: "I'll take a room, thanks." He then sits next to the pair that dealt with the loud drunk, and butts in on their conversation: "Hi. I enjoyed that little show you held earlier. Not many bother dealing with issues like that these days. I'm Heng, and I have a job for you if you're interested." As he finishes speaking, he takes the paper out of his pocket, and smooths it out on the table.
Paper says: Mercenaries Wanted - The Bazaar, two days from now
(OOC: That happened quickly. Going to add a few things Zheng would have done before closing. After the interaction with Lan, Zheng would have offered to sit at a table with him and invited the other two individuals. Zheng is a Cleric of the Sun and has been looking for a reason that his life was spared. Zheng feels like this was meant to happen and wishes to see where this path leads. Zheng would have been open about all of this if asked and will reluctantly admit to being able to use holy magic. Assuming Lan gets a room Zheng will also get a room.)
After Heng finishes introducing himself and Zheng has a chance to look over the paper.
“Well met Heng, my name is Zheng. It seems like there is not much information attached to that paper.”
As a calligraphy expert Zheng will look at the paper and see if he can gleam any information from it.
Lan inclines his head to the halfling barkeep. “A room, then—and plain straw ticks are comfort enough,” he says, patting the worn purse at his belt. Turning to Zheng and Heng, he adds with a rueful half-smile, “My coffers are leaner than my appetite for roads. If either of you would share the space—and the fee—I’d call it a kindness.”
His gaze lingers on the mercenary notice smoothed beneath Heng’s hand, then drifts to the dark window where moonlight sketches the distant river’s course. “At first light I mean to follow that bend of the Anyang and sniff out our elusive mist-performer in the village yonder. Should the trail dry up, I’ll be back by sundown. A purse earned at the Bazaar the next day would keep my satchel stocked with salves and supper both.” He raises his tankard in quiet toast. “If your paths run the same way, I’ll welcome the company—and whatever honest coin fate cares to scatter.”
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
Heng nods to Zheng's observation, and explains: "The details of mercenary work is usually best discussed in person. After all, if you are hunting a criminal, you don't want them able to read from the tavern wall that they are being hunted. And if you are to protect the travels of someone of import, you don't want to announce to all bandits that they are traveling." As for Lan, he promises: "Sure, I can share a room. Paying a couple more coins won't hurt me when you are helping me get a bunch more. And I'm free tomorrow, I can keep you company on your search."
"How much is a room?" asks Xi
"Might be worth it to sleep in a soft bed>"
Given that Zheng mostly handled the situation on his own, Ji-Ha would have just observed them converse. She rolls a 18 Arcana, but won't chip in regardless of the result.
(OOC: Arthuropodd it looks like you have not joined the campaign yet. Post #29 has the link if you want to add your character.)
Zheng stands up quickly, finishing his ale and slamming it onto the table(not too hard). Looking around the mostly empty bar, Zheng laughs with excitement.
“Heng, your reasoning is truly perfect! I will happily pay for your rooms for the night. Tonight we rest and tomorrow we start the hunt for mist man! Then we will have a job for the next day to recoup any funds we have lost! I need not sleep but it is far more comfortable spending time in a room rather than outdoors.”
Zheng will pay for the rooms and head to them(assuming each room has two beds and Zheng does not sleep we should only need 2 rooms?)