A cool breeze drifts across Flora Isle, mingling the sweet scent of flowers with the salty tang of the Lucidian Ocean. Well-tanned locals play on the beach, while sunburned visitors sit in wicker chairs and sip cold drinks. A half-dozen nearly naked shark hunters preparing to compete in the annual tournament stand in the shallows on the south shore, armed with harpoons and their wits.
I’d like you to take a moment to describe your characters and determine if any of you may have been traveling together prior to this.
Therut is an Tiefling with graying red skin, and white hair, making him look older than he is. His beard is a bit long, like a dwarf’s, and gives him a distinguished look. He has long horns that thrust forward and up from his temples before sweeping backwards. The horns are an interesting, almost see through color of white. He wears a vest with no shirt beneath, and a set of comfortable pants with sandals. He carries a pack, and has been known to strap on some armor if needed, but he’s seen more often carrying a book of disheveled notes. He has white eyes and - despite the lack of pupils - a set of glasses.
(If someone wants to be a buddy, that’s fine lol. Therut is basically a chatty nerd.)
Barrion Trapper is a fairly handsome half-elf, probably in his thirties. His complexion is naturally pale but is currently ruddier from his travels. His black hair is combed into a pompadour. Aside from the slightly pointed ears, his blue-green eyes give away his elven heritage. He has a winsome, dimpled smile and, in general, looks quite affable. He has most of his gear -- including leather armor and wooden shield strapped to his pack. His boots seem to have covered greater distances than his simple shirt and breeches, which appear more recently and locally purchased. Against the drab linen shirt, a reddish orange amulet stands out in contrast -- a winged woman wrapped in tongues of flame.
Carrow Locke is a rugged-looking human of average build. Though only 24 years old, his weathered face could belong to a man double his age. His hair and beard are matted and unkempt from the long journey he has taken over the past weeks. He wears loose, perhaps ill-fitted, grey-brown tunic and pants with a simple rope belt. There is a quarterstaff slung across his back and he carries a simple pack which looks like it may disintegrate to dust with the slightest breeze. Notably, he wears no footwear, but shows no pain or discomfort despite the many miles he has walked.
Though he has made the majority of his journey without companionship, a few days outside Palma Flora he encountered a friendly Tiefling. Though Carrow would not be described as overly-social (Therut seemed to talk enough for both of them) he was glad of the company.
Sauntering around at the edge of the beach on agile cat feet, Flick Rivertail is a relatively young, dashing male Tabaxi with a slight, athletic build and very light gray, almost white fur that bears distinct leopard style markings of darker gray. The fur on his face is white and his eyes are bright blue like a pair of sapphires. He wears a set of short, capri length pants made of dark brown cotton and a bright blue vest, also cotton, that’s currently unbuttoned.
In addition to the rapier he wears on one side of his belt, and a dagger on the other, Flick has a lyre that’s attached to a long piece of cord slung around his shoulder. It looks as if he’s angling to get a good vantage point where he can watch the shark hunting competitors, and from the confident manner in which he’s moving around the area, occasionally waving and nodding his head at people, some of who he obviously knows, it would seem that he’s been here in Palma Flora for awhile.
Barrion steps out of the shade of a tree, squints in the sun, and approaches the friendly-looking Tabaxi. "Greetings, friend, may the Everlight shine upon our path," he says with a smile as he dabs sweat from his brow. "You appear to be from around here. Could you point me in the direction of a brothel?"
“So Carrow, I’m telling you, if I can manage to meet up with my old friend, I’ll have a shot! Back to the library, where I belong. No more scrounging for money, living job to job. I’ll be able to put this brain to work on the bigger tasks of the world. It’ll be wonderful. Not that you aren’t wonderful, you’re an excellent listener, I can’t stress that enough. Maybe you could come with me, even!”
Flick returns the greeting from the half elf. “Well met, traveler, and welcome to Palma Flora on this fine day. You picked a good time to arrive, for the sun shines with extra warmth and the sand feels particulatly delightful underfoot today. And the scenery is not bad at all,” he says with a smile, pointing out among the beach.
“As for your question, that’s an inquiry for he bartender at The Riptide tavern over there, although a handsome fellow such as yourself should have no trouble finding suitable company among the patrons, without the need of a business arrangement.”
“Where did you come in from, if I may ask, and what brings you here to this quaint little place?”
Carrow smiles at this companion. It was clear that this expression was not a common one for the man. It almost looked pained.
"As much as I appreciate the offer, I've never been much of a reader. The library sounds a bit claustrophobic for my taste. At the moment, I'd prefer to work in the open air, perhaps as dockworker or a set of extra hands for a carpenter."
Barrion smiles broader as if the Tabaxi had said something amusing. "Questions such as those are best reserved for one's companions -- drinking companions, at least. Apparently, our path leads us to the Riptide, if you care to join me for a pint."
Carrow smiles at this companion. It was clear that this expression was not a common one for the man. It almost looked pained.
"As much as I appreciate the offer, I've never been much of a reader. The library sounds a bit claustrophobic for my taste. At the moment, I'd prefer to work in the open air, perhaps as dockworker or a set of extra hands for a carpenter."
Therut looks a bit disappointed for half a moment before he gets a cheery look again. “Well, maybe there’ll be a need for a carpenter there. Do you... mind if I come with you to look for work? We’ve gotten on so well, I’m a bit hesitant to say goodbye anytime soon.”
”Why not,”the Tabaxi says with a smile. ”I could use a refreshment, and it looks like we have a few minutes before the tournament gets underway. Besides, I should like to hear what tales you have to tell, master half elf. So, let us move to the Riptide and quench our thirsts on on this warm afternoon.”
Once settled at a table in the Riptide tavern, Barrion waves for the barkeeper to come over in order to request two ales and ask his question. While he waits, he turns to the Tabaxi and says [in a subtle Zemnian accent], "To answer your first question, my name is Barrion Trapper. I come from the Greying Wildlands of the Biting North. Are you familiar with the area? I'm afraid I don't have many tales to tell about my travels. It is not a good time to be traveling through the Empire, what with its war against the Kryn. I kept a low profile and stayed away from major settlements to avoid conscription, if such exists yet. What about you? I take from the fact that you do not know the whereabouts of a brothel that you are not from Palma Flora yourself."
As the half elf waves his hand and requests a couple of drinks for the pair, the Tabaxi thanks the barkeep by name. After clinking mugs and taking a drink, he lets out a wide grin and says, “Ahhhhh... There is nothing like that first sip of ale on a summer day. What’s not to love about beach life? He extends his hand for a proper introduction and speaks in a voice that shows little to no accent. “Well met, Barron Trapper, I am called Flick and your astute observation is true. I am not from Palma Flora, I come from Brokenbank, an island to the west of here. Between there and here, a number of tales could be told, although none of them involve the threats of war. Although we certainly have our own dangers in our own little corner of the world, but nothing so outwardly ostentatious as showy battlefield antics.”
”That said, do tell me about your journey here and how it is that you came to find yourself in Palma Flora. This is a long way from the Graying Wildlands, which sadly, I know little about. What is your homeland like?”
When the barkeep brings the ales, Barrion says, "How much do I owe you, good sir?" As he settles accounts Barrion adds, "And do be so kind as to tell me where your local brothel is."
After Flick's introduction and handshake, Barrion takes a large swig from his tankard and says, "There's not much to tell about the Greying Wildlands of the Biting North. It's grey, wild, biting cold, and north. As I said, my journey was uneventful as I tried to avoid contact with others through the Empire. Sorry to disappoint. I can say that I was able to witness the legendary revelries of Hupperduk, but from afar, alas. Once I reached the Menagerie Coast, I promptly exchanged my woolen garments for these Marquesian clothes. Much more appropriate to this climate, I'd say."
"As for the business that brings me here..." Barrion leans forward and speaks softly with earnest eye contact, "For the answer to that question, you'll need to accompany me to the brothel. In truth, Master Flick, your company could be very beneficial. Don't worry; I didn't travel all this way for the kind of 'business arrangement' you have in mind, but it's best if anyone else thought I did. I propose that I accompany you to this tournament you mentioned. Afterwards, we go to the brothel." Barrion leans back and speaks at a normal volume, "Tell me about the tournament. Can anyone enter? I could use more coin in my purse. I'd hate to lack the necessary funds later."
When the barkeep brings the two ales, Flick tosses a silver coin onto the table. "Please, allow me. For you are the one who has traveled far."
"The Shark Hunting Tournament is exactly as it sounds. It's an annual event when competitors from around the peninsula see who can take in the most sharks during the allotted time. It's quite famous around here, it's by far the biggest event of the year here in this tiny little town, and many of the competitors are also the ones who defend this place from unsavory types and other dangerous creatures who threaten."
"I'm strictly here to watch, though. You'll not find me swashing around in the waves out in the open surf. Mmmm Mmm... not for me. Too much water. Best enjoyed from a good spot on the beach, at least that's my opinion. I have no idea if you can still enter. Do you know anything about shark hunting? I didn't think that they Grayling Wildlands were home to very many sharks," he says with a wide grin, while tugging at his whiskers.
"Either way, that sounds like a fair proposition. Call me intrigued. Beach then brothel. It's a deal," he says, extending his paw across the table.
[DM: Did Barrion get the name and/or location of a brothel in Palma Flora from the barkeeper?]
Barrion shakes Flick's paw. "You make a good point, sir. I wouldn't know a shark if it swam up and bit me in the leg. Perhaps, it is best to stay on the beach and learn from the experts. Shall we return? I wouldn't want us to miss any of the festivities. And you can tell me about your broken island home and travels to the mainland."
"Absolutely! Let us return to the sunshine and go witness this great event. I've been waiting for weeks to watch the tournament, in fact, that's why I came here. When I heard about the competition, I was struck with curiosity, and I simply had to see it for myself."
As they walk out of the Riptide and make their way back to the beach, Flick continues,
"There's not much to say about Brokenbank, it's one of the Swavain Islands that sit in the waters to the southwest of here. Rather small place, but beautiful nonetheless, at least the beaches are. The town, not so much, but it sees a steady stream of merchant ships from all over that dock there. Which, of course, means a steady stream of rowdy sailors that full up the taverns and brothels, as well."
"When I was young, I often found myself amused by the stories I heard from the sailors, and eventually found that I had a knack for entertaining them. It wasn't too hard, most of them were quite drunk. Of course, as any young man does, I got a little bored in my very small town, so I stowed away on a merchant ship that was on its way to the mainland and spent the next few years traveling up and down the coast playing music and telling stories. Eventually, I heard about the shark hunting tournament and decided to come down here and check it out for myself."
A cool breeze drifts across Flora Isle, mingling the sweet scent of flowers with the salty tang of the Lucidian Ocean. Well-tanned locals play on the beach, while sunburned visitors sit in wicker chairs and sip cold drinks. A half-dozen nearly naked shark hunters preparing to compete in the annual tournament stand in the shallows on the south shore, armed with harpoons and their wits.
I’d like you to take a moment to describe your characters and determine if any of you may have been traveling together prior to this.
Merlok Aqurous - Triton Storm Magic Sorcerer 3 - Ascent from Theros
DM - Heroes of Wildemount
Therut is an Tiefling with graying red skin, and white hair, making him look older than he is. His beard is a bit long, like a dwarf’s, and gives him a distinguished look. He has long horns that thrust forward and up from his temples before sweeping backwards. The horns are an interesting, almost see through color of white. He wears a vest with no shirt beneath, and a set of comfortable pants with sandals. He carries a pack, and has been known to strap on some armor if needed, but he’s seen more often carrying a book of disheveled notes. He has white eyes and - despite the lack of pupils - a set of glasses.
(If someone wants to be a buddy, that’s fine lol. Therut is basically a chatty nerd.)
Paladin - warforged - orange
Barrion Trapper is a fairly handsome half-elf, probably in his thirties. His complexion is naturally pale but is currently ruddier from his travels. His black hair is combed into a pompadour. Aside from the slightly pointed ears, his blue-green eyes give away his elven heritage. He has a winsome, dimpled smile and, in general, looks quite affable. He has most of his gear -- including leather armor and wooden shield strapped to his pack. His boots seem to have covered greater distances than his simple shirt and breeches, which appear more recently and locally purchased. Against the drab linen shirt, a reddish orange amulet stands out in contrast -- a winged woman wrapped in tongues of flame.
Barrion traveled to Palma Flora alone.
Carrow Locke is a rugged-looking human of average build. Though only 24 years old, his weathered face could belong to a man double his age. His hair and beard are matted and unkempt from the long journey he has taken over the past weeks. He wears loose, perhaps ill-fitted, grey-brown tunic and pants with a simple rope belt. There is a quarterstaff slung across his back and he carries a simple pack which looks like it may disintegrate to dust with the slightest breeze. Notably, he wears no footwear, but shows no pain or discomfort despite the many miles he has walked.
Though he has made the majority of his journey without companionship, a few days outside Palma Flora he encountered a friendly Tiefling. Though Carrow would not be described as overly-social (Therut seemed to talk enough for both of them) he was glad of the company.
Ryndar Shadowsbane - Lvl 3 Eldarin Fighter | Kassar - Lvl 2 Lizardfolk Druid (Circle of Stars) | Finnegan (Finn) Taggert - Lvl 1 Human Cleric (Peace Domain) |
Verdan Schmidt - Lvl 2 Half-Elf Bard | Grithik - Lvl 5 Deep Gnome Warlock (Celestial)
Sauntering around at the edge of the beach on agile cat feet, Flick Rivertail is a relatively young, dashing male Tabaxi with a slight, athletic build and very light gray, almost white fur that bears distinct leopard style markings of darker gray. The fur on his face is white and his eyes are bright blue like a pair of sapphires. He wears a set of short, capri length pants made of dark brown cotton and a bright blue vest, also cotton, that’s currently unbuttoned.
In addition to the rapier he wears on one side of his belt, and a dagger on the other, Flick has a lyre that’s attached to a long piece of cord slung around his shoulder. It looks as if he’s angling to get a good vantage point where he can watch the shark hunting competitors, and from the confident manner in which he’s moving around the area, occasionally waving and nodding his head at people, some of who he obviously knows, it would seem that he’s been here in Palma Flora for awhile.
Barrion steps out of the shade of a tree, squints in the sun, and approaches the friendly-looking Tabaxi. "Greetings, friend, may the Everlight shine upon our path," he says with a smile as he dabs sweat from his brow. "You appear to be from around here. Could you point me in the direction of a brothel?"
Therut
“So Carrow, I’m telling you, if I can manage to meet up with my old friend, I’ll have a shot! Back to the library, where I belong. No more scrounging for money, living job to job. I’ll be able to put this brain to work on the bigger tasks of the world. It’ll be wonderful. Not that you aren’t wonderful, you’re an excellent listener, I can’t stress that enough. Maybe you could come with me, even!”
Paladin - warforged - orange
Flick returns the greeting from the half elf. “Well met, traveler, and welcome to Palma Flora on this fine day. You picked a good time to arrive, for the sun shines with extra warmth and the sand feels particulatly delightful underfoot today. And the scenery is not bad at all,” he says with a smile, pointing out among the beach.
“As for your question, that’s an inquiry for he bartender at The Riptide tavern over there, although a handsome fellow such as yourself should have no trouble finding suitable company among the patrons, without the need of a business arrangement.”
“Where did you come in from, if I may ask, and what brings you here to this quaint little place?”
Carrow smiles at this companion. It was clear that this expression was not a common one for the man. It almost looked pained.
"As much as I appreciate the offer, I've never been much of a reader. The library sounds a bit claustrophobic for my taste. At the moment, I'd prefer to work in the open air, perhaps as dockworker or a set of extra hands for a carpenter."
Ryndar Shadowsbane - Lvl 3 Eldarin Fighter | Kassar - Lvl 2 Lizardfolk Druid (Circle of Stars) | Finnegan (Finn) Taggert - Lvl 1 Human Cleric (Peace Domain) |
Verdan Schmidt - Lvl 2 Half-Elf Bard | Grithik - Lvl 5 Deep Gnome Warlock (Celestial)
Barrion smiles broader as if the Tabaxi had said something amusing. "Questions such as those are best reserved for one's companions -- drinking companions, at least. Apparently, our path leads us to the Riptide, if you care to join me for a pint."
Therut looks a bit disappointed for half a moment before he gets a cheery look again. “Well, maybe there’ll be a need for a carpenter there. Do you... mind if I come with you to look for work? We’ve gotten on so well, I’m a bit hesitant to say goodbye anytime soon.”
Paladin - warforged - orange
”Why not,” the Tabaxi says with a smile. ”I could use a refreshment, and it looks like we have a few minutes before the tournament gets underway. Besides, I should like to hear what tales you have to tell, master half elf. So, let us move to the Riptide and quench our thirsts on on this warm afternoon.”
Once settled at a table in the Riptide tavern, Barrion waves for the barkeeper to come over in order to request two ales and ask his question. While he waits, he turns to the Tabaxi and says [in a subtle Zemnian accent], "To answer your first question, my name is Barrion Trapper. I come from the Greying Wildlands of the Biting North. Are you familiar with the area? I'm afraid I don't have many tales to tell about my travels. It is not a good time to be traveling through the Empire, what with its war against the Kryn. I kept a low profile and stayed away from major settlements to avoid conscription, if such exists yet. What about you? I take from the fact that you do not know the whereabouts of a brothel that you are not from Palma Flora yourself."
As the half elf waves his hand and requests a couple of drinks for the pair, the Tabaxi thanks the barkeep by name. After clinking mugs and taking a drink, he lets out a wide grin and says, “Ahhhhh... There is nothing like that first sip of ale on a summer day. What’s not to love about beach life? He extends his hand for a proper introduction and speaks in a voice that shows little to no accent. “Well met, Barron Trapper, I am called Flick and your astute observation is true. I am not from Palma Flora, I come from Brokenbank, an island to the west of here. Between there and here, a number of tales could be told, although none of them involve the threats of war. Although we certainly have our own dangers in our own little corner of the world, but nothing so outwardly ostentatious as showy battlefield antics.”
”That said, do tell me about your journey here and how it is that you came to find yourself in Palma Flora. This is a long way from the Graying Wildlands, which sadly, I know little about. What is your homeland like?”
When the barkeep brings the ales, Barrion says, "How much do I owe you, good sir?" As he settles accounts Barrion adds, "And do be so kind as to tell me where your local brothel is."
After Flick's introduction and handshake, Barrion takes a large swig from his tankard and says, "There's not much to tell about the Greying Wildlands of the Biting North. It's grey, wild, biting cold, and north. As I said, my journey was uneventful as I tried to avoid contact with others through the Empire. Sorry to disappoint. I can say that I was able to witness the legendary revelries of Hupperduk, but from afar, alas. Once I reached the Menagerie Coast, I promptly exchanged my woolen garments for these Marquesian clothes. Much more appropriate to this climate, I'd say."
"As for the business that brings me here..." Barrion leans forward and speaks softly with earnest eye contact, "For the answer to that question, you'll need to accompany me to the brothel. In truth, Master Flick, your company could be very beneficial. Don't worry; I didn't travel all this way for the kind of 'business arrangement' you have in mind, but it's best if anyone else thought I did. I propose that I accompany you to this tournament you mentioned. Afterwards, we go to the brothel." Barrion leans back and speaks at a normal volume, "Tell me about the tournament. Can anyone enter? I could use more coin in my purse. I'd hate to lack the necessary funds later."
When the barkeep brings the two ales, Flick tosses a silver coin onto the table. "Please, allow me. For you are the one who has traveled far."
"The Shark Hunting Tournament is exactly as it sounds. It's an annual event when competitors from around the peninsula see who can take in the most sharks during the allotted time. It's quite famous around here, it's by far the biggest event of the year here in this tiny little town, and many of the competitors are also the ones who defend this place from unsavory types and other dangerous creatures who threaten."
"I'm strictly here to watch, though. You'll not find me swashing around in the waves out in the open surf. Mmmm Mmm... not for me. Too much water. Best enjoyed from a good spot on the beach, at least that's my opinion. I have no idea if you can still enter. Do you know anything about shark hunting? I didn't think that they Grayling Wildlands were home to very many sharks," he says with a wide grin, while tugging at his whiskers.
"Either way, that sounds like a fair proposition. Call me intrigued. Beach then brothel. It's a deal," he says, extending his paw across the table.
[DM: Did Barrion get the name and/or location of a brothel in Palma Flora from the barkeeper?]
Barrion shakes Flick's paw. "You make a good point, sir. I wouldn't know a shark if it swam up and bit me in the leg. Perhaps, it is best to stay on the beach and learn from the experts. Shall we return? I wouldn't want us to miss any of the festivities. And you can tell me about your broken island home and travels to the mainland."
"Absolutely! Let us return to the sunshine and go witness this great event. I've been waiting for weeks to watch the tournament, in fact, that's why I came here. When I heard about the competition, I was struck with curiosity, and I simply had to see it for myself."
As they walk out of the Riptide and make their way back to the beach, Flick continues,
"There's not much to say about Brokenbank, it's one of the Swavain Islands that sit in the waters to the southwest of here. Rather small place, but beautiful nonetheless, at least the beaches are. The town, not so much, but it sees a steady stream of merchant ships from all over that dock there. Which, of course, means a steady stream of rowdy sailors that full up the taverns and brothels, as well."
"When I was young, I often found myself amused by the stories I heard from the sailors, and eventually found that I had a knack for entertaining them. It wasn't too hard, most of them were quite drunk. Of course, as any young man does, I got a little bored in my very small town, so I stowed away on a merchant ship that was on its way to the mainland and spent the next few years traveling up and down the coast playing music and telling stories. Eventually, I heard about the shark hunting tournament and decided to come down here and check it out for myself."
(There isn’t any brothel in the city, but some people are known to operate out of certain rooms in the local inn)
Merlok Aqurous - Triton Storm Magic Sorcerer 3 - Ascent from Theros
DM - Heroes of Wildemount
(OOC: Are we missing someone? Are there supposed to be 5 in our group?)